Any Orr

Bob and Donna Jean Ford have spent years meticulously researching the Orr family of York (Adams) County, Pennsylvania and Washington County, Virginia. In doing so they uncovered corrections and additions to the frequently referenced work, Nine Generations of Orrs in America. Donna compiled a manuscript detailing this additional information which she has generously shared.

Should you choose to incorporate any of this information into your own work please credit Donna Jean Ford in your citation. A typical reference (adapted from Elizabeth Shown Mills, Evidence Explained, p. 495) might be:

Donna Jean Ford, "Corrections to Nine Generations of Orrs In America", manuscript, RamblingRoots.com (http://www.ramblingroots.com/RYB-p/p3003.htm : accessed 20 Dec. 2007)

>>>UPDATED (Nov. 2011): Bob and Donna Jean Ford outline why Isabelle Orr (married James Hutton) and Elizabeth Orr (married John Reid) may have been daughters of Arthur Orr the Elder
Nine Generations of Orrs in America 1700-1954 - Corrections

by Donna Jean (Ray) Ford
Feb. 17, 1988

The "Nine Generations of Orrs in America, 1700 - 1954" written by Warren. H. ORR in 1954 has a lot of useful information, but there are a number of errors in the earlier part of the book that I have corrected. I have included the text from the book for each part in error and then presented proof to substantiate any corrections to each of the disputed parts.

To differentiate between the various Arthur ORRs, I have used:

     Arthur ORR, the Elder, (b. abt.1727, d. 1808)
     Arthur ORR, Sr., (b. 1750-1753, d. 1814) - son of Arthur, the Elder
     Arthur ORR, Jr., (b. abt. 1774) - son of Arthur, Sr.
Page 25 — text:

     “The first Arthur Orr, my great-great-great grandfather, grew
     to manhood in Lancaster County, PA., and was married, but the
     place and date of his marriage and the name of his wife are unknown.
     He was probably born abroad in the year 1727 and is known by court
     records to have died in Washington County, VA., in 1807, intestate.
     His only son, Arthur, was Administrator of his estate and his sole heir.”


Page 25 — corrections:

*** Arthur ORR, the Elder, most likely died in 1808 (not 1807) ***

A letter dated 30 Dec 1807 from James and Mary (CARSON) ORR of Washington Co., VA (acknowledging receipt of Mary (CARSON) ORR’s inheritance from her grandfather, Archibald McGREW’s estate) was sent to John McGREW, of York (now Adams) Co., PA, the executor of the York Co., PA will of John’s father Archibald McGREW, deceased. James ORR writes in that letter that “... my grandfather is well ...” (James ORR’s grandfather being Arthur ORR, the Elder). The letter was signed by James ORR, Mary (CARSON) ORR, Arthur ORR, Sr., and Wm. ORR. [The original letter is in the John McGREW file at the Adams County Historical Society at Gettysburg].

The Washington Co., VA inventory for Arthur ORR, the Elder, was dated 25 May 1808 and returned to court on 23 Jun 1808. Therefore, Arthur ORR, the Elder, probably died in 1808, not 1807, as he was still alive on 30 Dec 1807 and his inventory was taken 25 May 1808, (Wash. Co., VA Will Book 3:71). One of the first acts of the executor or an administrator is to locate and inventory all property of the deceased and have it appraised prior to any settlements. Therefore, an inventory is generally taken soon after a person’s death. Arthur ORR, the Elder’s, inventory was very short, only 13 items (including a Bible) which were appraised at $13.33 and cash notes valued at $1,414.11. (No record has been found showing the distribution or settlement of Arthur’s estate.)

*** Arthur ORR, the Elder’s, son Arthur was not his sole heir ***

Arthur ORR, the Elder’s, son John was still living and resided in Washington Co., VA when Arthur ORR, the Elder, died. The William ORR (that also signed the above mentioned letter to John McGREW) was probably another son of Arthur the Elder. Mary, wife of William STEWART, was also alive and probably was the daughter of Arthur the Elder. This has not been proven other than family tradition, but a Mary ORR and Wm. STEWART were married 15 Dec 1773 in Cumberland Co., PA [Source: Marriage licenses issued by John Agnew, Esq., Cumberland County Pennsylvania Church Records of the 18th Century, (1991), by F. Edward Wright, p 95]. Cumberland County borders Tyrone Township, Adams County where Arthur ORR, the Elder, lived. Wm. and Mary STEWART also bought 230 acres on 28 Nov 1786 (Wash. Co., VA Deed Book 1:50) near a 174 ½ acre tract that Arthur ORR, Sr., bought on 19 Apr 1797 (Deed Book 1:533-535). Arthur ORR, Sr., had previously purchased a 402 acre tract on 21 Jul 1795 (Deed Book 1:413) that bordered the north side of the above 174 ½ acres. Arthur ORR, the Elder, may have also had other children, possibly daughters.
Page 29, paragraph 1— text:

     “ARTHUR ORR, only son of Arthur Orr, the Elder, was born on the
     latter’s farm in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania in 1753. When
     he was about eight years of age, his father bought two tracts of land
     in York County, adjoining Lancaster County on the west. One of
     these tracts was in Tyrone Township, the other in nearby Huntington
     Township. He then moved with his family onto the Tyrone Town-
     ship farm. The son, Arthur, upon his marriage to Ann Scott in 1773,
     moved to the Huntington Township farm where the couple lived
     until they moved to Virginia in 1795.”


Page 29, paragraph 1— corrections:

*** Arthur ORR, Sr., and Ann SCOTT(?) did not get married in 1773 ***

Arthur ORR, Sr., was probably married in 1772 or earlier as Arthur’s first son James was born 21 Dec 1772. [Source: James and Mary (CARSON) ORR Bible records, a copy of which is in possession of this compiler].

*** This compiler cannot find any proof that Arthur ORR, Sr., married Ann SCOTT ***

Arthur ORR, Sr., did have a wife named Ann, but no records have been found that prove her last name was SCOTT. The book, “Findley Family History, Our Grandfathers,” by Alverta Brown Martin, also has Arthur’s wife as Ann SCOTT [Source: LDS microfilm # 0980872]. Arthur ORR, Sr., may have married an Ann SCOTT, but it is interesting that Arthur’s oldest son James named his first daughter Ann Ryburn ORR and Arthur’s oldest daughter Ann named her first son John Ryburn McQUOWN. This suggests 3 possibilities: (1) Arthur ORR, Sr., had just one wife named Ann SCOTT; (2) Arthur ORR, Sr., may have first married a RYBURN and then married a 2nd time to Ann SCOTT; (3) Arthur ORR, the Elder, may have married a RYBURN. Two of Arthur ORR, Sr.’s, other children gave their children middle names starting with “R” — Arthur ORR, Jr., named one of his son’s Arthur R. and John ORR named his first daughter Ann R. None of Arthur ORR, Sr.’s, children seem to have been given the middle name of “Scott.”.
Page 47, # 1 — text — (for James ORR, son of Arthur ORR, Sr.):

     “1. James Orr, their first child, was born in 1774. He married
     Jane Snodgrass, September 27, 1796, a year after arriving in Virginia
     from Pennsylvania. The total number of his children is not known
     but it is definitely shown by the records that he had three sons,
     Arthur, James and Archibald.”


Page 47, # 1 — corrections:

*** James ORR was born 21 Dec 1772, not in 1774 ***

Proof: James and Mary “Polly” (CARSON) ORR Bible.

*** James ORR, son of Arthur ORR, Sr., did not marry Jane SNODGRASS ***

His only wife was Mary “Polly” CARSON (daughter of Moses and Martha (McGREW) CARSON), whom he married 20 Apr 1795.

Proofs: (1) James and Mary “Polly” (CARSON) ORR Bible; (2) Letter dated 30 Dec 1807 from James and Mary (CARSON) ORR to John McGREW; (3) Deed (Wash. Co., VA Deed Book 2:28-29, 20 Feb 1798) for property from Arthur ORR, Sr., and Ann, his wife, to son James.
James ORR, son of John ORR, was the James that married Jane SNODGRASS (on 27 Sep 1810) in Washington Co., VA. They were married by Edward Crawford, a Presbyterian Minister. [Sources: (1) “The Marriages of Washington County, Virginia, 1781-1853,” (1993), by D. E. Brown, p 46; (2) John ORR’s will, written 02 Nov 1814, proved 21 and 22 Aug 1816, Wash. Co., VA Will Book 4:202-203].

John ORR, father of the above James ORR, was a son of Arthur ORR, the Elder, and a brother of Arthur ORR, Sr. John’s son, James, was born about 1790.
Page 47, # 1 b — text:

     “(b) James Orr, Jr., the second son of James Orr, died
     before manhood, and, therefore, did not share in the land
     division of his father.”


Page 47, # 1 b — corrections:

*** James ORR, Jr., son of James ORR and Mary CARSON, did not die before manhood ***

James ORR, Jr., was born 07 May 1814 and died 12 Sep 1881 in Smyth Co., VA. James ORR, Jr., and Eliza Hope McSPADDEN were married 18 May 1837 in Wash. Co., VA by Alex McEwen, a Presbyterian Minister. [Sources: (1) James and Mary (CARSON) ORR Bible records; (2) Wash. Co., VA Register of Marriages, Book 2:353; (3) “The Marriages of Washington County, Virginia, 1781-1853,” (1993), by D. E. Brown, p 47; (4) Wash. Co., VA Deed Book 23:86-88]. (James and Eliza (McSPADDEN) ORR are the 3rd great-grandparents of this compiler).
Page 48, first paragraph — text:

     “in consideration of affection and “as advancement to him in
     full of his share in my estate” dated October 6, 1837, conveying
     250 acres therein described in the Holston River settlement.
     The deed states that the land is the same “on which the said
     Archibald Orr now lives.” The deed is signed “Jas. Orr,” and
     fails to show any signature of his wife, Jane Snodgrass Orr,
     so it must be assumed that she was then dead.”


Page 48, first paragraph — corrections:

*** Jane (SNODGRASS) ORR was not Archibald ORR’s mother ***

Archibald ORR’s mother was Mary “Polly” (CARSON) ORR. Archibald ORR was born 15 Feb 1796, 14 years before the marriage of James ORR (son of John) and Jane SNODGRASS. [Sources: (1) James and Mary “Polly” (CARSON) ORR Bible records; (2) Archibald ORR’s Bible records (a copy of which is in the possession of this compiler); (3) “High on a Windy Hill,” (1968), a Wash. Co., VA cemetery book by Catherine S. McConnell, p 185; (4) Archibald ORR’s tombstone (now broken and removed from its original spot in Glade Spring Presbyterian Church Cemetery, Glade Spring, Wash. Co., VA) as viewed by this compiler in 1987].

*** Mary (CARSON) ORR was not dead, when James ORR signed the property over to his son, Archibald ***

The assumption that James ORR’s wife was dead because she did not sign the deed was an incorrect assumption. James ORR’s deed to his son Archibald was a “Quit Claim Deed” transferring James’ interest in the property to his son or heir. The wife did not have to sign the deed. (Mary (CARSON) ORR died 20 Aug 1840 in Wash. Co., VA). [Proof that Mary was not dead: James and Mary “Polly” (CARSON) ORR Bible records].

*** Jane (SNODGRASS) ORR did not die until about Dec 1851 ***

[Source: Inventory of Jane ORR, deceased, by order of the County Court on 24 Jan 1852. Campbell E. ORR, administrator (Wash. Co., VA Will Book 13:20-21)]. (Campbell E. ORR was the son of James and Jane (SNODGRASS) ORR).
Page 48, # 2 — text:

     “2. Arthur Orr, the second child, born in 1776, moved with his
     father to Holston River settlement in 1795. He married Jane Campbell in 1800...”


Page 48, # 2 — comments:

*** Arthur ORR, Jr., son of Arthur ORR, Sr., probably married Jane MURDOCK (but it has not been proven) ***

Barbara FUNARI, Somerset Co., PA (a descendant of the above Arthur ORR, Jr.), and this compiler think that Arthur ORR, Jr., may have married a Jane MURDOCK who was possibly a descendant of the Robert MURDOCK that was a neighbor of Arthur ORR, the Elder, in Tyrone Township, York (now Adams) Co., PA. Arthur ORR, Jr., and his wife Jane, named one of their son’s “Robert M.” Barbara FUNARI has in her possession, copies of some old notes dated 12-29-1928, that she received from her great aunt that may be in the handwriting of a Jessie Baker BURRISS. (The notes look as if someone was listing the names and dates of relatives to the best of their recollection). Included in these notes (which have some general inaccuracies), is the following: “Orr, Arthur, 1774-1834, Murdock.” Arthur ORR, Jr., was born about 1774 and died about 1834. He may have married a Jane CAMPBELL as Warren H. ORR mentions, but no record can be found of their marriage in Wash. Co. VA during the time Arthur ORR, Jr., was living in Wash. Co., VA.

Another interesting entry in the handwritten notes above is the following: “Arthur Orr, 1740-1811, Amy Ryburn.” This could very well be in reference to Arthur ORR, Sr., (b. 1750-1753, d. 1814) and his wife named Amy (or perhaps Ann) RYBURN — even though the dates for Arthur ORR, Sr., are somewhat different.
Page 48, # 3 — text:

     “3. John Orr, the third child born in 1777, was married to
     Mary Aiken at Old Glade Spring Presbyterian Church near Abingdon,
     VA., November 28, 1799. As a result of this marriage a son,
     John Orr, was born in 1800. On September 26, 1816, this son John
     was married at Abingdon to Polly Varnum. By this marriage several
     children were born, among whom are know to be the following:”


Page 48, # 3 — corrections:

The surname AIKEN may also be EAKIN. The EAKINs were neighbors of Arthur ORR, Sr., in the Cedar Creek area of Wash. Co., VA. AIKEN and EAKIN are used interchangeably in some of the early records. John ORR (son of Arthur ORR, Sr.) and Mary AKINS [AIKEN/AIKIN/EAKIN] were married in Wash. Co., VA 28 Nov 1799 by Edward Crawford, a Presbyterian Minister. If John and Mary (AIKEN) ORR had a son John and he was born in 1800 or 1801, he would have been 15 or 16 years old if he had married Polly VARNUM in 1816. Not impossible, but it’s not very likely to have males marrying that young. [Source: “The Marriages of Washington County, Virginia, 1781-1853,” (1993), by D. E. Brown, p 46].

John ORR and Polly VARNUM were married in Wash. Co., VA by John Jones, Jr., a Baptist Minister. [Source: “The Marriages of Washington County, Virginia, 1781-1853,” (1993), by D. E. Brown, p 47]. Did Mary (AIKEN) ORR die and did John then marry (2nd) Polly VARNUM?

John ORR (son of Arthur ORR, Sr.) has been a real ongoing challenge. If John married Polly VARNUM 2nd, then according to Wash. Co., VA deeds in 1829 and 1831, he also had a 3rd wife named Elizabeth. In the 1820 census of Wash. Co., VA, John’s wife was 26-44 years old, in the 1830 census John’s wife was 20-29 years old. Arthur ORR, Sr., and Ann, his wife, deeded 120 acres of their original 402 acre Cedar Creek tract to Arthur’s sons John and Arthur, Jr., on 09 Aug 1804 (Wash. Co., VA Deed Book 3:145-146). Arthur ORR, Jr., sold his ½ share of the 120 acres to his brother John on 09 Aug 1810 (Deed Book 4:347-348). John (son of Arthur ORR, Sr.) and Elizabeth, his wife, sold 35 acres and 32 poles of their 120 acres to Pleasant SMITH on 14 Feb 1829 (Deed Book 10:10-11). John and Elizabeth sold 85 acres (the balance of their 120 acres) to Samuel GRANT on 23 Sep 1831 (Deed Book 10:541-542). To complicate matters, John and Elizabeth seem to have died, or more likely, moved out of Wash. Co., VA after selling the balance of their 120 acres in 1831. John was not in the 1840 census of Wash. Co.

In the 1810 census of Washington Co., VA, 2 males and 4 females (all under 10 years old) were living with John ORR (26-44, son of Arthur ORR, Sr.) and Mary (AIKEN/EAKIN), John’s 1st wife (26-44). In the 1820 census, one male (16-25), 2 males (10-15), 3 females (16-25), 1 female (10-15), and 2 females under 10 were living with John (26-44) and Polly (VARNUM), John’s 2nd wife (26-44). In the 1830 census, one male (10-14 years old), one male (5-9), and two females (10-15) were living with John (50-59) and Elizabeth, John’s 3rd wife (20-29). If all the children in the above three censuses were John’s, he would have been the father of at least 5 boys and 6 girls.

Tax lists as well as other early documents named someone Junior or Senior that were not necessarily father and son. This was a way to distinguish two people with the same name, Senior usually being the older person and Junior the younger. This was the case in the 1815 tax list below. John ORR, Senior was the uncle of John ORR, Junior.

The comprehensive 1815 tax list of Washington Co., VA had only two John ORRs: John ORR, Sr., (son of Arthur ORR, the Elder) and John ORR, Jr., (son of Arthur ORR, Sr.) who had one farm joining Leonard HUTTON, Jr., and the late Arthur ORR, deceased, containing 120 acres, having one log barn, and 3 other log “cabbins,” valued at $960. [Source: “Supplement to Southwest Virginia Tax Assessments, 1815,” (1992), compiled by Mary B. Kegley].

The 1820 and 1830 censuses — plus deed books, will books, etc., make no reference to a third John ORR (who could have married Polly VARNUM in 1816) and who would have been the son of John and Mary (AIKEN) ORR. Therefore, this compiler believes that John ORR (son of Arthur ORR, Sr.) married 2nd, Polly VARNUM.
Page 48, # 3 a — text:

     “(a) James Orr, who was born in 1817. The marriage
     record shows that this James was married April 18, 1837 to
     Eliza Hope McSpadden. No further record, except we found
     that on February 18, 1850, James Hope Orr, was married to
     Nancy Ann Garritt
[Garrett] in Washington County, VA.”

Page 48, # 3 a — corrections:

*** James ORR who married Eliza McSPADDEN was not the son of John ORR who married Polly VARNUM ***

James was the son of James and Mary “Polly” (CARSON) ORR and was born 07 May 1814, not in 1817. [Source: James and Mary “Polly” (CARSON) ORR Bible records].

*** James Hope ORR did not marry Nancy Ann GARRETT ***

James Hope ORR (son of Archibald ORR and Mary “Polly” Mitchell HOPE) was married 18 Feb 1858 to Martha Harvey CLARK (daughter of John S. and Isabella B. CLARK). Neither the bride or groom had been married previously. [Sources: (1) Wash. Co., VA Register of Marriages, Book 2:353; (2) “Washington County Virginia Marriages, 1853-1880,” (1997), by Thomas Colley, p 284].

Nancy Ann GARRETT (daughter of Henry Calloway GARRETT and Nancy SPEER) was married 09 Jan 1861 to James Isaac ORR (son of James and Eliza (McSPADDEN) ORR). Neither the bride or groom had been married previously. [Source: Wash. Co., VA Register of Marriages, Book 2:353].
Page 48 # 3 b — text:

     “(b) John Orr, named after his father, is shown by the
     marriage records to have married Eliza Ann Hutton September
     26, 1839. No further record is shown.”


Page 48 # 3 b — corrections:

*** Warren H. ORR has the above John ORR as the son of John and Polly (VARNUM) ORR and therefore descending from John ORR, son of Arthur ORR, Sr., which is incorrect ***

Arthur ORR, the Elder’s, son John and his wife Jane/Jennett (DONNALSON?) ORR had a son, James. This James and his wife Jane (SNODGRASS) ORR had a son, John Brandon ORR.

John Brandon ORR was born 31 Jul 1817 and died 11 Nov 1884 in Monroe Co., MO. He married 26 Sep 1839 in Wash. Co., VA to Eliza Ann HUTTON. They were married by Gabriel F. Page, a pastor of Abingdon Methodist Church. [Source: “The Marriages of Washington County, Virginia, 1781-1853,” (1993), by D. E. Brown, p 47]. John Brandon ORR lived in Monroe Co., MO about 41 years.

[Source: The following abstract is from the Wash. Co., VA Minute Book 11:145-146, 28 Dec 1853, following the death of Jane (SNODGRASS) ORR, widow of James ORR (James died before May 1848). The plaintiffs and defendants referred to are the nine children of James and Jane (SNODGRASS) ORR who were John B., Abram S., James R., Campbell E., Elizabeth P., Margaret, Mary E., Nancy, and Ann Jane ORR: “John B. ORR and others vs. Margaret ORR and others... the report of Abram S. ORR... heirs and distributees of James ORR deceased, there were nine at his death which fact is personally known to the chairman of this court, John EAKIN...” (Note: John EAKIN married Mary SNODGRASS on 12 Sep 1822)]. Also see the following Wash. Co., VA records that help prove the children of James and Jane (SNODGRASS) ORR:

     Minute Book 11:11-12, 25 May 1853
     Deed Book 20:310-311, 15 Aug 1850, recorded Jun 1851
     Deed Book 23:280-281, 11 Mar 1856, recorded 16 Feb 1857
     Deed Book 32:17-18, 03 Dec 1874, recorded 26 Jul 1875
     Deed Book 36:553-556, 17 Apr 1881, recorded 03 Sep 1881.

Mrs. Margaret R. DAVIS, 165 East Main Street, Abingdon, Wash. Co., VA (in 1968), a descendant of James and Jane (SNODGRASS) ORR, did research on that family. Margaret’s family group sheet for James and Jane (SNODGRASS) ORR has all their 9 children. Their son John is entered on the group sheet as John Brandon ORR.

Mrs. Virginia WIMER, 2314 Calle Monte Cristo, San Clemente, CA (1944) also has John Brandon ORR as a son of James and Jane (SNODGRASS) ORR. So, two family researchers have John B. ORR’s middle name as Brandon.

John Brandon ORR’s grandfather, John ORR (son of Arthur ORR, the Elder), may have also had the middle name of “Brandon” — possibly named after John BRANDON (the step-father of Arthur ORR, the Elder) who married Margaret, a widow and the mother of Arthur ORR, the Elder. [Sources for Arthur ORR’s mother and step-father: (1) “The Brandon Family” by Archibald F. Bennett, pp 11-12, (LDS Book 129.273 B7346, Salt Lake City, Utah and LDS microfilm # 1320603, item 2); (2) Lancaster Co., PA Orphan’s Court Records (F PA. L 1c, Part 3, original book 1754-1760, p 94) and (F PA. L 1c, Part 4, book 1768-1772, p 26)]. (More on Arthur’s mother and siblings later).

John Brandon ORR was in the 1840 census of Wash. Co., VA. According to Virginia WIMER, John later lived in Monroe Co., MO for 41 years and Margaret Davis refers to an 1882 deed (no deed book or its locality mentioned) that names descendants of James and Jane (SNODGRASS) ORR living in Randolph Co., MO (a county that borders Monroe Co., MO), including their son and two daughters (1) John B. ORR; (2) Margaret L. (ORR) LILLY, wife of James M. LILLY; (3) the eight children of Mary Eleanor (ORR) HUTTON, wife of William Dixon HUTTON.
Page 51, # 3 d — text:

     “(d) Isaac Newton Orr was married in 1838 to Sarah (also called Sally) Pool, at Abingdon, VA.”

Page 51, # 3 d — correction:

*** The above marriage date is incorrect ***

Isaac Newton ORR was married to Sarah POOL on 10 Feb 1846 in Wash. Co., VA by Ephraim E. Wiley, a Methodist Minister. [Source: Wash. Co., VA Register of Marriages, Book 2:353].
Page 52, # 5 — text:

     “5. Jane Orr, the fifth child, was born in 1781. She married
     Samuel Scott August 27, 1799, and they continued to live in the
     Holston River country. The Scott family is very prominent and
     numerous in Washington County, and continued for many decades to
     be close friends of the Orrs. The cemetery at Old Glade Spring
     Presbyterian Church discloses many tombstones marking the graves
     of the Scott, Hutton and Orr descendants.”


Page 52, # 5 — correction:

*** Jane ORR did not marry Samuel SCOTT, she married Hugh SCOTT. ***

Note: Other researchers have Jane ORR married to James SCOTT. This is also incorrect.

This correction is rather lengthy because of the confusion between which SCOTT married Jane ORR. Also during the investigation, this compiler discovered that Arthur ORR, Sr., also had a previously unknown daughter named Elizabeth who married James SCOTT. Elizabeth had deceased prior to Arthur making out his will in 1814. Jane HUTTON (daughter of James and Sarah HUTTON) married Samuel SCOTT, Jr. [Source: Will of James HUTTON written 08 Apr 1803, proved 21 Feb 1815, Wash. Co., VA Will Bk 4:115-117]. Jane ORR (daughter of Arthur ORR, Sr.) married Hugh SCOTT. Elizabeth ORR (daughter of Arthur ORR, Sr.) married James SCOTT. Hugh SCOTT and Samuel SCOTT, Jr.,were the sons of Samuel SCOTT, Sr. James SCOTT was the son of the aforementioned Samuel SCOTT, Jr.

Arthur ORR, Sr., included the following legacy in his will: “and that the remainder of my estate after the aforesaid legacies, lawful debts and funeral charges are paid be equally divided amongst my children viz, Jas. Orr, Arthur Orr, John Orr, Sarah Stuart, Jane Scott, Margaret Eakin, Patrick Orr, Polly Orr, William Orr, Thos. Orr, Joseph Orr and Nancy Orr.”

The above 12 children of Arthur ORR, Sr., seem to be mentioned in the “present tense,” in other words, all 12 were still alive including Jane SCOTT. Arthur ORR, Sr.’s, daughter Ann (ORR) McQUOWN, the wife of Isaac McQUOWN, had died and Arthur ORR, Sr., made the following provision in his will for Ann’s 7 children: “Ann McQuown’s children to have a share equal to one of the twelve just named.”

Arthur ORR, Sr., also gave his grandson, Samuel Orr SCOTT $10.00 from the remainder of his estate (plus his specific legacy of $150.00). (Samuel Orr SCOTT being the son of his deceased daughter, Elizabeth, who married James SCOTT).
Therefore, after all the earlier provisions in Arthur’s will were taken care of, Arthur split up the remainder of his estate 14 ways covering 12 living children and the children of his two deceased daughters, Ann and Elizabeth. $10.00 to Samuel Orr SCOTT and the balance in 13 equal parts.

The following Will and two Indentures in Trust verify that Hugh SCOTT had two sons named Samuel and Arthur Orr SCOTT:

(1) [Will of Hugh SCOTT, written 16 Aug 1831, proved 24 Oct 1831, Wash. Co., VA Will Book 6:209-210]:
“...at death of my wife my land be equally divided between my son[s] Samuel and Orr SCOTT, for which they, Samuel and Orr, shall pay to each of my children fifty dollars which shall be paid in six years from the death of my wife to all of those that shall be at the age of twenty one at that time, and to those that are not at the age of twenty one, they Samuel and Orr shall pay them in two years from the time they arrive at the age of twenty one.” (Hugh’s two sons were Samuel and Arthur Orr SCOTT).

(2) [Indenture in Trust, Arthur O. SCOTT to John F. BAUGH, for one dollar, one field of corn containing 10 or 11 acres on the land of Alexander McEWEN. Recorded 05 Oct 1843. Wash. Co. VA Deed Book 16:296].

(3) [Indenture in Trust, Orr SCOTT to Charles J. CUMMINGS, for one dollar, personal property and ? of 11 or 12 acres of corn. Recorded 20 Jul 1844. Wash. Co. VA Deed Book 16:477-478].

Arthur ORR, Sr., gave specific legacies of $15.00 to four of his grandsons named Arthur: Arthur ORR, son of James; Arthur McQUOWN, son of Isaac; Arthur ORR, son of Arthur; and Arthur EAKINS, (son of Thomas).

Arthur Orr SCOTT (son of Hugh and Jane (ORR) SCOTT), did not receive a legacy from Arthur ORR, Sr., because Arthur Orr SCOTT was probably born after Arthur ORR, Sr., made out his will.

Proofs for Elizabeth ORR being the daughter of Arthur ORR, Sr., and the wife of James SCOTT:

(1) On 29 Oct 1845, three of James SCOTT’s children, Wm. A. SCOTT of Delaware Co., IN and Lewis and James SCOTT of Fayette Co., IN, sold one thirteenth of 206 acres on Cedar Creek in Washington Co., VA to Robert CLARK, Jr., for $180.00. “The said interest being one undivided thirteenth of the said tract of land and being the same which Samuel Scott senior [junior], deceased, died seized and possessed, and which descended to his children and heirs there being thirteen in number. The said Wm. A., Lewis and James Scott being children of James Scott, deceased...” [Source: Wash. Co., VA Deed Book 17:374-376, recorded 27 Feb 1846 (LDS microfilm # 0034371)].

(2) “Last Will and Testament of James Scott... I James Scott of the county of Fayette in the state of Indiana... I give and bequeath to my beloved wife Susannah Scott all my right, title and interest to the farm and messuage of land in which I now reside being one hundred acres of land near Collinsville in the county aforesaid for her [ ? ] and that of my four children until my youngest son attains to the age of twenty one years and at that time the land is to be divided equally amongst my four sons (to wit) Samuel Orr Scott, William Eakin Scott, Lewis Scott and James Scott reserving however to my [ ? ] beloved wife Susannah Scott one third of my interest in the said [ ? ] during her natural life so long as she shall remain my widow and at her death or termination of her widowhood, her third part of the [ ? ] land hereby bequeathed, is to descend to my aforesaid sons in [ ? ? ] is to be vested? an equal interest (to wit) to Samuel Orr Scott, William Eakin Scott, Lewis Scott and James Scott... by Arthur Orr who I do hereby appoint to be my sole executor...” Written 30 Jul 1823. Witnesses: Jonathan McCarty, Joseph Nelson and Abraham [ ? ]. Recorded 13 Oct 1823. [Source: Fayette Co., IN Will Book B:12-13, (LDS microfilm # 0469718)].

The above will is additional proof that one of James SCOTT’s sons was Samuel Orr SCOTT. Also that one of James’ wives was named Susannah, that James died in 1823, and that he owned property in Fayette Co., IN in 1823.

With the help of Barbara FUNARI, Somerset Co., PA, a descendant of the Arthur ORR who was the executor of James SCOTT’s will above, we have determined that this Arthur ORR is the son of Arthur ORR, Sr., and therefore the brother of James SCOTT’s first wife (whose name was Elizabeth ORR — more on her later). James SCOTT’s brother-in-law Arthur ORR, Jr., sold his ½ interest in 120 acres in Washington Co., VA to his brother John ORR on 09 Aug 1810 [Wash. Co., VA Deed Book 4:347-348, (LDS microfilm # 0034365)]. Arthur ORR, Jr., bought 75 acres in Liberty Township, Butler Co., OH on 25 Apr 1812 [Butler Co., OH Deed Book C:203-204]. Arthur ORR, Jr., and his wife, Jean [MURDOCK?], sold their Butler Co., OH property on 31 Aug 1822 [Butler Co., OH Deed Book I:330-332]. Arthur ORR, Jr., was James SCOTT’s executor in Fayette Co., IN in 1823. Arthur ORR, Jr., and Jane, his wife, sold 80 acres in Township 13, Range 11, in the District of Brookville, Fayette Co., IN on 28 Oct 1825 [Fayette Co., IN Deed Book B:374-375], and Arthur ORR, Jr., was in the 1830 census of Fayette Co., IN.

A Susannah SCOTT, who was probably James SCOTT’s widow, was in the 1830 and 1840 census of Fayette Co., IN and the 1850 census of Connersville (or Connersville Township), Fayette Co., IN.

(3) Arthur ORR, Sr.’s, will dated 26 May 1814 left $160.00 to James SCOTT’s son Samuel Orr SCOTT. “To my grandson, Sam’l Orr Scott one hundred and fifty dollars... In the general distribution of the last part of my estate, I allow to my grandson Sam’l Orr Scott ten dollars which with the aforesaid one hundred and fifty dollars, I allow to remain in the hands of my executors until the said Samuel Orr Scott attain to the age of fourteen years when he shall choose a guardian who will receive the said one hundred and sixty dollars for him and apply the same for his benefit.” [Wash. Co. VA Will Book 4:59-61, (LDS microfilm # 0034365)]. Three times in his will, Arthur ORR, Sr., mentions his grandson Samuel Orr SCOTT.

(4) “Guardian Bonds Washington County, Virginia, 1780-1872,” Historical Society of Wash. Co., VA Publications Series II, No. 21, May 1984, p 15: “Sep. 17, 1817 — James Scott named guardian of Samuel Orr Scott, son of said James Scott. Bond: $300. Surety: Robert Edmondson.”

The bond names Samuel Orr SCOTT’s father, James SCOTT. This compiler assumes that by 17 Sep 1817, Samuel Orr SCOTT had reached at least the age of 14 years (as required in Arthur ORR, Sr.’s will in order for Samuel to receive his inheritance from Arthur’s executors) and Samuel’s father, James, became Samuel’s guardian so that James as guardian, could receive Arthur ORR, Sr.’s, $160.00 bequeath to Samuel Orr SCOTT. If the above assumption is correct, Samuel Orr SCOTT was born about 1803 or earlier. If so, then Elizabeth ORR may have married James SCOTT about 1802 (or earlier). Samuel Orr SCOTT seems to have been their only child although Elizabeth may have had other children who died young. (The other 3 sons of James SCOTT mentioned above were by James’ other marriages).

(5) Arthur ORR, Sr.’s, executors settlement account shows a specific legacy for Samuel Orr SCOTT: “Samuel Orr Scott son of James $160.00.” [18 Sep 1816, Wash. Co., VA Will Book 4:204-205, (LDS microfilm # 0034365)].

Again, Samuel Orr SCOTT is named as son of James.

Conjecture — the 3 wives of James SCOTT:

The cemetery book for Wash. Co., VA, “High on a Windy Hill,” p 187, for Old Glade Spring Presbyterian Church Cemetery has the following: “Scott, Elizabeth, consort of Capt. James Scott, 18 Oct 1786 - 12 Sep 1808.” Elizabeth was probably the daughter of Arthur ORR, Sr., who married James SCOTT. Elizabeth and James then had one son, Samuel Orr SCOTT. According to a group sheet by Mary BOWEN, of San Diego, CA (a descendant of Samuel SCOTT, Sr.), James SCOTT was possibly born about 1784. The “born about 1784" date would mean that James SCOTT and Elizabeth (who was born in 1786) would have been about the same age.

John A. Blakemore and others made an alphabetical list of plots and drew a plat of the older (before 1952) burials in Old Glade Spring Cemetery. Elizabeth SCOTT above was #317 and is shown on the plat as being buried near both Hugh SCOTT (#319) and Ann ORR (#321), wife of Arthur ORR, Sr.

Elizabeth being born 18 Oct 1786 would have probably been born after Arthur ORR, Sr.’s, daughter Margaret and before his son Patrick.

After James SCOTT’s wife Elizabeth died in 1808, James probably married 2nd Elizabeth AIKIN/EAKIN 27 Dec 1810 in Wash. Co., VA by Edward Crawford, a pastor of Glade Spring Presbyterian Church. [Source: “The Marriages of Washington County, Virginia, 1781-1853,” (1993), by D. E. Brown, pp 56, 74-75].
The will of James SCOTT names his 2nd son as William Eakin SCOTT, therefore, William Eakin SCOTT was probably the son of James SCOTT and Elizabeth AIKIN/EAKIN. Elizabeth was possibly the daughter of Wm. EAKIN, who was a neighbor of both the SCOTTs and Arthur ORR, Sr.

Margaret ORR, the daughter of Arthur ORR, Sr., married Thomas EAKIN, a son of the above Wm. EAKIN.
(Warren H. ORR has Margaret married to Wm. EAKIN which this compiler has proven to be incorrect. More on Margaret ORR and Thomas EAKIN later).

As noted in the 29 Oct 1845 Wash. Co., VA deed above, James SCOTT’s son, William A. SCOTT was living in Delaware Co., IN in 1845. A Wm. A. SCOTT, born about 1811/1812 in VA was a farmer living in Perry Township, Delaware Co., IN in the 1850 census. (Here we have the same Aiken/Aikin/Eakin confusion — James SCOTT names his son in his will, Wm. Eakin SCOTT, but the above 1845 deed and the 1850 Delaware Co., IN census has Wm.’s middle initial as Wm. A. SCOTT). Wm. being born about 1811/1812 fits with Wm. being the son of James and Elizabeth (EAKIN) SCOTT who were married in 1810. Wm. A. SCOTT had a wife Ann, born about 1813/1814 in OH, and a son, Orrin? W., born about 1836/1837 in IN. A one year old child named Mary WALLING was living with Wm. and Ann in 1850.

James SCOTT’s 2nd wife, Elizabeth (AIKIN/AIKEN/EAKIN), probably died before 1817.

James SCOTT and his 3rd wife, Susannah, living in Wash. Co., VA, sell on 05 Nov 1817, a one sixth part of 150 acres to Elizabeth SHELL. Said Susannah being an heir with her brother Henry SHELL and 4 sisters (not named) to their father Lewis SHELL’s, deceased, land on the South Fork of the Holston River. [Source: Wash. Co., VA Deed Bk 6:442, (LDS microfilm # 0034366)].

James and Susannah SCOTT probably were parents of James’ 3rd and 4th sons. Their 3rd son Lewis was probably named after Susannah’s father, Lewis SHELL.

Additional information on James SCOTT:

(1) James SCOTT was administrator for his father, Samuel SCOTT Jr.’s, inventory 21 May 1811. [Source: Wash. Co., VA Will Book 3:232-234, (LDS microfilm # 0034356)].

(2) James SCOTT was the administrator of Samuel SCOTT, who was the administrator of Wm. SCOTT, James’ uncle. James SCOTT was, therefore, the administrator of Wm. SCOTT’s 19 Jun 1812 settlement account. [Source: Wash. Co., VA Will Book 3:292-293, (LDS microfilm # 0034356)].

(3) James SCOTT, John REID, James SPEER and Wm. PARKS were appraisers for the inventory of Elijah MICKLE on 19 Jun 1817. Recorded 16 Sep 1817. [Source: Wash. Co., VA Will Book 4:223-224, (LDS microfilm # 0034357)].

(4) James SCOTT was the administrator of Samuel SCOTT, Jr., deceased, who was administrator of Samuel SCOTT, Sr. Therefore, James SCOTT was the administrator of his grandfather Samuel SCOTT, Sr.’s, 14 Mar 1814 settlement account. [Source: Wash. Co., VA Will Book 4:52, (LDS microfilm # 0034357)].

(5) Samuel SCOTT, Jr.’s, settlement account was recorded 16 Sep 1817. [Source: Wash. Co., VA Will Book 4:52, (LDS microfilm # 0034357)].

(6) James SCOTT was recommended for Captain, 2nd Batt., 70th Reg., in the room of John BEATIE, removed 21 May 1811. Replaced as Captain by Archibald MEEK, in a contested recommendation 19 May 1818. [Source: “The Militia of Washington Co., VA,” 1979, p 51].

(7) A James SCOTT and John GREENWAY were witnesses to a deed on 07 Jan 1812 (Samuel MEEK and wife, Elizabeth, to Benjamin CLARK). Land owned by Samuel MEEK bordered land of Samuel SCOTT. [Source: Wash. Co., VA Deed Book 5:35-36, (LDS microfilm # 0034366)].

(8) A James SCOTT along with Arthur ORR, Sr., and Wm. LYON, were appraisers for the inventory of Samuel MEEK 31 Jul 1812. Samuel MEEK’s will of 30 Jun 1812 left his son Archibald MEEK 100 acres where I now live to be laid off on the south side of the great road adjoining lines with the heirs of Wm. WHITE and the heirs of Samuel SCOTT... [Source: Wash. Co., VA Deed Books 3:284-287, 4:11-13, (LDS microfilm #’s 0034356/7)].

(9) A James SCOTT was a member of the Presbyterian Congregation of Glade Spring when the Presbyterian Church property was conveyed by John ROBINSON on 15 Feb 1812 through James and 9 other trustees to the church. [Source: Wash. Co., VA Deed Book 5:364-365, (LDS microfilm # 0034357)].

(10) A James SCOTT and a Wm. SCOTT were witnesses to a deed 28 Dec 1815 along with Robert GILLESPIE (Arthur BOWEN, Jr., sold to Henry THOMPSON). Property on both sides of the Middle Fork of the Holston River, corner to Thomas CROW. [Source: Wash. Co., VA Deed Book 6:273-274, (LDS microfilm # 0034366)].

(11) Moses EDMISTON settlement — to James SCOTT proven account... Only date was date recorded, 15 Feb 1820. [Source: Wash. Co., VA Will Book 4:324-325, (LDS microfilm # 0034357)].
Page 52, # 6 — text:

     “6. Ann Orr, named after her mother, was the sixth child. She
     was born in 1783. Like most of her brothers and sisters she married
     into another Scotch family of the neighborhood. Her marriage to
     James McQuown occurred December 17, 1800. Her husband owned
     a tract of land nearby and their descendants are still to be found
     in Washington County. From the will of her father, Arthur Orr,
     made in May, 1814, it is evident that Ann died prior to that time
     leaving two or more children.”


Page 52, # 6 — corrections:

*** Ann ORR, daughter of Arthur ORR, Sr., married Isaac McQUOWN (not James McQUOWN) 21 Apr 1795 (not 17 Dec 1800) and Ann ORR was born 25 Feb 1776 (not in 1783) ***

Arthur ORR, Sr.’s, account, left a specific legacy of $15.00 to “Arthur McQUOWN, son of Isaac.” Isaac and Ann (ORR) McQUOWN named one son Arthur Orr McQUOWN. [Wash. Co., VA Will Book 4:204-205].

Arthur ORR, Sr., left one share of his estate to the minor children of his deceased daughter, Ann McQUOWN and Arthur left an additional $15.00 to Ann McQUOWN’s son, Arthur Orr McQUOWN. [Wash. Co., VA WB 4:59].

“17 Sep 1816, Isaac McQuown named guardian of John R., Elanor, Ann, Arthur O., Jane B., Betsy L. and Rebecca McQuown, children of the said Isaac McQuown. Bond: $500. Surety: Jacob Mickle.” [Source: “Guardian Bonds, Washington County, Virginia, 1780-1872,” The Historical Society of Wash. Co., VA Publications Series II, No. 21, May 1984, p 14].

Arthur ORR, Sr., left one share of his estate to the minor children of his deceased daughter, Ann McQUOWN and Arthur left an additional $15.00 to Ann McQUOWN’s son, Arthur Orr McQUOWN because he was named after Arthur. Because of Arthur ORR’s legacies to Ann McQUOWN’s minor children, Isaac McQUOWN, their father, became their guardian to manage his children’s legacies.
Page 52, # 7 — text:

     “7. Margaret Orr, the seventh child, was born in 1785. She
     married William Eakin in Washington County, September 26, 1803.
     No separate search was made for their descendants, but the husband
     is mentioned in the estate proceedings of his father-in-law, Arthur Orr.”

Page 52, # 7 — corrections:

*** Margaret ORR did not marry William EAKIN ***

Margaret “Peggy” ORR, daughter of Arthur ORR, Sr., married Thomas EAKIN on 08 Mar 1804 (not 26 Sep 1803), in Washington Co., VA. They were married by James Harper, a Presbyterian Minister. [Source: “The Marriages of Washington County, Virginia, 1781-1853,” (1993), by D. E. Brown, pp 18, 94].

Arthur ORR, Sr., in his will left $15.00 to his grandson, Arthur AIKEN (should be EAKIN). [Source: Wash. Co., VA Will Book 4:204-205].

Thomas EAKIN was named guardian of his son Arthur so that Thomas could manage his son’s legacy from Arthur ORR’s estate: “17 Dec 1816, Thomas Eakin named guardian of Arthur O. Eakin, son of said Thomas Eakin. Bond: $150.00. Surety: John Crawford.” [Source: “Guardian Bonds, Washington County, Virginia, 1780-1872,” The Historical Society of Wash. Co., VA Publications Series II, No. 21, May 1984, p 14].
Page 53, # 9 — text:

     “9. Polly Orr was born in 1791, and remained unmarried. She
     died in 1826 and was buried at Old Glade Spring Cemetery (see
     photo of tombstone).”


Page 53, # 9 — correction:

*** “Polly” ORR did not remain unmarried ***

Mary “Polly” ORR (daughter of Arthur ORR, Sr.) and Benaiah CRAWFORD were married 30 Nov 1815 in Wash. Co., VA by John JONES, Jr., a Baptist Minister. [Source: “The Marriages of Washington County, Virginia, 1781-1853,” (1993), by D. E. Brown, pp 49, 81-82]. The marriage of Mary and Benaiah took place after Arthur ORR, Sr.’s, death, therefore no mention of the marriage would have been made in Arthur ORR’s will. Mary and Benaiah had a son, Arthur Orr CRAWFORD. Benaiah probably had a sister Margaret. Margaret CRAWFORD and George GAMBLE were married by Nicholas REAGAN (date unknown). [Source: “The Marriages of Washington County, Virginia, 1781-1853,” (1993), by D. E. Brown, p 22]. Margaret (CRAWFORD) GAMBLE, in her will, mentioned her nephew, Arthur Orr CRAWFORD. George and Margaret GAMBLE’s property was east of and bordered Arthur ORR, Sr.’s, 402 acre tract.

On 27 Jun 1854, James ORR, Jr. (son of Arthur ORR, Sr.’s, son James) and (husband of Eliza Hope McSPADDEN) was named guardian of four of Arthur O. CRAWFORD’s children. [Source: “Guardian Bonds, Washington County, Virginia, 1780-1872,” The Historical Society of Wash. Co., VA Publications Series II, No. 21, May 1984, p 49].
Page 53, # 13 — text:

     “13. Nancy Orr, the thirteenth child, was born in 1797 at the
     Arthur Orr homestead in the Holston valley near Abingdon. She
     married James Kincannon February 25, 1818. No search has been
     made for her descendants.”


Page 53, # 13 — comments:

This compiler cannot find any proof that Nancy ORR, daughter of Arthur ORR, Sr., married James KINCANNON. The only Nancy ORR marriage (in the marriage records that are available) was that of a Nancy ORR who married John RICHARDSON on 01 May 1817. Nancy and John were married in Wash. Co., VA by Stephen BOVELL, a Presbyterian Minister. [Source: “The Marriages of Washington County, Virginia, 1781-1853,” (1993), by D. E. Brown, pp 51, 70-71].
Pages 57 through 134 — comments:

No attempt was made to try and verify this section of Warren H. ORR’s book that dealt with Thomas ORR, son of Arthur ORR, Sr. (This is Warren’s direct line).
Pages 135 through 138 — comments:

This part of the section called “The Orr Family Tree” has the same mistakes as pointed out earlier.
Pages 21 through 22 — text:

     “Among the early Scotch emigrants to leave over-crowded Ulster
     and come to America was our ancestor, John Orr, and his brother
     William. They were said to have been twins and red haired. The
     exact date of their landing is not known, but it was about 1730 or
     1731. Family tradition exists that they were in their middle twenties
     when they landed in Philadelphia and that they remained there for a
     year or two before settling on separate land grants. They first moved
     into nearby Bucks County, where Humphrey Orr, a wealthy old Scot
     and his wife had established their home in 1730. While not certain
     it is altogether likely that Humphrey Orr, who is said to have come
     from County Donegal in Ulster, was related to John and William
     Orr. John and his wife were said to have brought two small children
     with them — John and Arthur, the latter about 3 years old. They
     were the probable parents of Thomas and James and other children
     whose names appear in the same period.”

     “Here are the land grant records of John Orr and William Orr,
     taken from the Pennsylvania Archives, 3rd Series, Vol. 24:”

     “Bucks County
     John Orr, 200 acres, warranted, 19 March, 1733
     John Orr, 180 acres, warranted, 10 December, 1745”


     “Lancaster County
     William Orr, 200 acres, warranted, 12 June, 1738
     William Orr, 70 acres, warranted, 1 April, 1749
     William Orr, 40 acres, 11 April, 1749
     John Orr, 50 acres, warranted, 3 August, 1749”


Pages 21 through 22 — comments:

Warren H. ORR uses the Pennsylvania Archives to cite his “proofs” for John ORR as being the father of Arthur ORR, Sr. There is a problem with using the above 180 acre tract for a John ORR in Bucks Co., PA, that was warranted 10 Dec 1745 as such a proof. That John ORR remained in Bucks Co., PA until his death in 1761 or 1762. In that John ORR’s will, he names the following: his wife (Jane), son (Thomas), daughter (Isabelle PATTERSON) and granddaughter’s (Rebekah ORR and Rebekah BAKER). This same John ORR was the only son and heir of Humphrey ORR. After Humphrey ORR died in Bucks Co., PA about 1732, his son John, a laborer, who was living in Rapho Parish of Rapho, County Donegal, Ireland, on 13 Jun 1737, appointed his friend Andrew HENDERSON his attorney to collect and receive all estate left him by his father. Soon after John immigrated to America and settled on the farm and lived there until his death. According to source # 4 below, Humphrey ORR’s administration papers were dated 1732 (Bucks Co., PA, Adm. # 350). The will of John ORR of Bedminster (Bucks Co., PA, Will Book 3:82), yeoman, was dated 04 Dec 1761 and proved 22 Apr 1762. Executors were his wife Jane and Thomas BOY of Buckingham. Witnesses were Anthony KENNARD, John TOWNSEND and Edward MURPHY. [Sources: (1) “History of Bucks County,” ( PA), by J. H. Battle, p 573, (LDS Book # 974.821 H2l); (2) “Bucks
County, Pennsylvania Pioneers of the 18th Century,” by Richard T. Williams, p 102, (LDS book # 974.821 D3w); (3) Abstract of Bucks Co., Wills, 1685-1795, p 227, (LDS Book # 974.821 P2b); (4) Index of Bucks Co., PA, Wills and Administrations, p 119, (LDS Book # 974.821 P2w); (5) Bucks Co., PA, Deed Book 6:243-244, (LDS microfilm # 0172874)].

Humphrey ORR took up 200 acres on the Tohickon, then in Plumstead now Bedminster Twp., at a point where the Durham road crosses that stream and was known as “John ORR’s ford.” What time Humphrey came there is not known, but he was probably there as early as 1730 and died about 1736 [about 1732], leaving a widow Elizabeth. [Source: “Bucks County, Pennsylvania Pioneers of the 18th Century,” p 102]. “Several miles south of Ottsville at the crossing of the Tohickon the first bridge over that stream was built. It was then known as John Orr’s ford, from the inn of which he was proprietor on the Bedminster side.” [Source: “History of Bucks County,” by Battle, p 626].

John ORR’s 10 Dec 1745 warrant for 180 acres was for part of a tract granted to John STREEPERS situated on the Delaware River and on Tohickon Creek in Bucks Co., PA. Returned 10 Nov 1745. [Source: LDS microfilm # 1038707]. John ORR, yeoman, of Bedminster, mortgaged the above 180 acre tract on 31 May 1759. The mortgage was recorded 05 Jul 1759. [Source: Bucks Co., PA, Deed Book 10:11-12, (LDS microfilm # 0172876)].

In the fall of 1739, Reverend James CAMPBELL received a call to the Tinicum Presbyterian church, then called “Tohickon,” through Francis WILLIAMSON and John ORR. [Source: “History of Bucks County, Pennsylvania from the Discovery of the Delaware to the Present Time,” by Wm. H. Davis, Vol. 1:9, (Albright College, Reading, PA)].

The 200 acre tract for a John ORR in Bucks Co., PA, that was warranted 19 Mar 1733 — comments:

The above warrant was for John ORR of Philadelphia County, PA, for 200 acres in Makefield Township, Bucks Co., PA. There is no record of a survey being returned, therefore it is difficult to determine what became of the property. John ORR was from Philadelphia Co., PA, in 1733, so he would not be the same John ORR that was Humphrey ORR’s son, who was living in Ireland in 1737.

Humphrey’s son John had a wife Jane and children Thomas and Isabelle. A John and Jane ORR baptized two of their children, John and Isabel, at the First Presbyterian church at Philadelphia on 28 Feb 1722 and 06 Aug 1725. A Jane and Thomas ORR, children of John ORR, were also baptized in the same church on 02 Jan 1733. [Source: PA Vital Records from the PA Genealogical Magazine of History and Biography, Vol. 1:86, 88, 97].

Not enough information is readily at hand at this time to make any kind of informed comment as to who the John ORR was that had the warrant for 200 acres in Makefield Township.


Arthur ORR, the Elder’s, parents and siblings — Facts that can be proved:

(1) It is known that Arthur ORR, the Elder’s, residence was Manor Township, Lancaster Co., PA, in 1761, as he gave that as his residence when he purchased 202 acres (plus 6 percent allowance for roads and highways) in Huntington Township, York (now Adams) Co., PA, from the Rev. Adam BOYD and Jane, his wife, of Sadsbury Township, Chester Co., PA. [Source: York Co., PA, Deed Book A:522-523].

(2) Margaret ORR, mother of Arthur, married (2nd) to John BRANDON.
(3) Margaret ORR, mother of Arthur, had a dau., Margaret (Arthur’s sister), who married Robert BEATY.
(4) Margaret and John BRANDON lived in Manor Township, Lancaster Co., PA.
(5) John BRANDON died before 1759 in Lancaster Co.
(6) Margaret BRANDON died between 1758 and 1769 in Lancaster Co.
(7) Arthur was the eldest son of Margaret ORR.
(8) John BRANDON had a son John.
(9) John BRANDON had a dau. Jane, who married Samuel NELSON.
(10) John, the son of John BRANDON, who was a minor over 14 years of age on 25 Jan 1758, chose Robert BEATY and Samuel NELSON to be his guardians.
(11) Arthur ORR and Robert BEATY were administrators of John BRANDON, deceased.
[Sources: Lancaster Co., PA, Orphan’s Court Records, (F PA, L 1c, Part 3), original book 1754-1760, p 94; and (F PA, L 1c, Part 4), original book 1768-1772, pp 26, 31-32].
(12) John BRANDON was taxed in Manor Township in 1751.
[Source: “A New Index, Lancaster County, Pennsylvania Before The Federal Census,” (1982), Vol. 3, “Index to the 1750 Tax Records,” by Gary T. Hawbaker and Clyde L. Groff, p 11].

Arthur ORR, the Elder’s, parents and siblings — Information that is probably true:

(1) John BRANDON (Jr.) was the son of Margaret [ ? ] ORR and her (2nd) husband John BRANDON.
(2) Jane BRANDON, who married Samuel NELSON, was the daughter of Margaret [ ? ] ORR and her (2nd) husband John BRANDON.

(Fact 1): Lancaster Co., PA, Orphan’s court, 26 Mar 1768. Robert BEATY and Arthur ORR, administrators of all and singular the Goods and Chattels Rights and Credits which were of John BRANDON deceased Appearing in Court in pursuance of a Citation to them issued enjoining such Appearance produced to the Court the Account of their Administration on the Estate of the said deceased duly passed before the Deputy Register whereby there Appears to have been a balance in their Hands of 184.14.1 pounds which the Court Allows and Approves and Settles the distribution thereof in the following manner:

     To Margaret BRANDON, Widow of the deceased, 61.11.4 ¼ pounds.
     To John BRANDON, Son of the deceased, 62.1.9 ½ pounds.
     To Samuel NELSON and Jane his wife, 41.0.10 ¾ pounds.

[A distribution was made to the widow, son and daughter of John BRANDON, deceased. No distribution was made to Arthur ORR or to Robert and Margaret BEATY, as Arthur and Margaret were not children of John BRANDON].

(Fact 2): And it Appearing to the Court that the said Margaret BRANDON died since the decease of her Husband aforesaid the Court settles the distribution of her 61.11.4 ¼ pounds as follows:

     To Arthur ORR eldest Son of the said Margaret, 24.12.6 ½ pounds.
     To Robert BEATY and Margaret his Wife Daughter of the deceased, 12.6. 3 ¼ pounds.
     To John BRANDON, 12.6. 3 ¼ pounds.
     To Samuel NELSON and Jane his wife, 12.6. 3 ¼ pounds.
Note that this time, a distribution was made to Arthur ORR (eldest son of Margaret, deceased); to Margaret (a daughter of Margaret, deceased), wife of Robert BEATY; to John BRANDON and to Jane, wife of Samuel NELSON. As John BRANDON and Jane (BRANDON) NELSON also received shares of the estate of Margaret BRANDON, deceased, then John and Jane are most likely to have been the children of Margaret and John BRANDON (not the children of John BRANDON and a possible 1st wife).

[Source for Facts 1 and 2: Lancaster Co., PA, Orphan’s Court Records, (F PA, L 1c, Part 4), original book 1768-1772, pp 31-32].

(3) Margaret (mother of Arthur ORR, the Elder, and mother of Margaret (ORR) BEATY), was probably the mother of the James ORR, of Manor Township, Lancaster Co., PA, who died intestate in 1756.

(Fact 1): “Robert Beaty, Kinsman of James Orr, late of Manor township in the County of Lancaster, deceased,” was named the administrator for James ORR on 04 Nov 1756. [Source: Lancaster Co., PA, Letters of Administration, Book 1:89].

(Fact 2): “Robert Beaty, James Bickham and Jacob Hunt, all of the County of Lancaster, and Province of Pennsylvania, are held and firmly bound...” On 04 Nov 1756, Robert BEATY was bonded as administrator for James ORR, deceased. Sureties were James BICKHAM and Jacob HUNT above. [Source: Copy of the original Administrative Bond of James ORR, deceased, located at the Lancaster Co., PA., Courthouse].

(Fact 3): The inventory of the estate of James ORR, deceased, dated the [blank] day of Dec, 1756 included a debt of 1.12.3 pounds against Margaret BRANDON [in all likelihood, James’ mother]. Signed 03 Dec 1756 by the Appraisers, George GIBSON and James BICKHAM. [Source: Copy of the original Inventory of James ORR, deceased, of Manor Township, located at the Lancaster Co., PA., Courthouse].

(Fact 4): Administrator’s Account of James ORR, deceased. [Source: Copy of the original located at the Lancaster Co., PA., Courthouse].


The BRANDONs of what is now West Hanover, Dauphin Co., PA — Facts and Comments:

Archibald F. BENNETT in his book “The Brandon Family,” also has Jane and John, Jr., as the children of Margaret and John BRANDON. Archibald has Jane as being born about 1736 and John, Jr., born about 1739, both in Hanover Township, Lancaster Co. (now West Hanover, Dauphin Co.), PA. (Archibald offers no proof for his statement that both children were born in Hanover Township). As John BRANDON, Jr., was over 14 years old in the Orphan’s Court proceeding on 25 Jan 1758, then John was born between 1738 and 1744. John Jr.’s, sister Jane had already married by 25 Jan 1758, and if she was at least 18 years old when she got married, then she would have been born by 1740 or earlier. So Archibald’s born about 1736 for Jane and 1739 for John, Jr., are reasonable.

If Jane was born about 1736 and if she is the daughter of Margaret and John BRANDON, then Arthur ORR, the Elder’s, father probably died about 1735 or earlier. Margaret ORR seems to have had only 3 children by her first marriage (barring any other children dying young). This lends to the probability that Margaret’s first husband died early in their marriage. Therefore, any ORR’s living after about 1735 would not be the first husband of Margaret ORR (unless the couple had divorced, which probably is not likely).

Archibald F. BENNETT states that Arthur ORR’s step-father, John BRANDON, probably was the son of Thomas and Elizabeth BRANDON. That John was born about 1712 and that he was of Hanover Township, Lancaster (now Dauphin) Co., PA. Archibald also thinks the above Thomas BRANDON was the son of John BRANDON, Sr.

Another possibility is that Arthur ORR’s step-father, John BRANDON, was the son of the John BRANDON who had property in Hanover Township, Lancaster Co., (now West Hanover, Dauphin Co.), PA, on or near the headwaters of Beaver Creek and South of a mountain range called Blue Mountain. Today the property is just North West of Linglestown, Dauphin Co., PA. Beaver Creek forms the boundary of West Hanover and Lower Paxton Townships. A John BRANDON, Jr., had property bordering his father, John BRANDON, Sr. Father and son had warrants dated 25 Dec 1737. (It was common in those days to have actually settled on the property as much as 8 years prior to taking out any warrants).

[Source 1: John BRANDON, warrant # 118, Hanover Township, Lancaster Co., PA. Warrant dated 23 Dec 1737. 250 acres on one of the main branches of Beaver Creek and at the foot of [Blue] Mountain adjoining Ezechias ALEXANDER and Wm. NUTT, (LDS microfilm # 1028742). Patentee was John BARNETT, Vol. H, No. 34, p 633 (LDS microfilm # 1028879 — not readable). Survey 1, Vol. H:272 (LDS microfilm # 0988688). Survey 2, Vol. C22:160 (LDS microfilm # 1004640), 94 acres, 89 perches. Warrant returned 02 Sep 1863 (1863 is correct). Survey 2 was done for John BARNETT 15 Aug 1863, adjoining: Wm. S. FINNEY on the West, John BARNETT on the North, Emanuel CASSLE and heirs of John FORNEY on the East, and John W. COWDEN on the South. Survey returned 02 Sep 1863].

Source 2: John BRANDON, Jr., Warrant # 119, Hanover Township. Warrant dated 23 Dec 1737. 250 acres adjoining Ezechias ALEXANDER, John’s father, John BRANDON, Sr., and John HENRY. Warrant returned 17 May 1774, (LDS microfilm # 1028742). Patentee was Thomas McCLURE, Vol. AA, No. 14, p 704. The tract was called “Brandenburgh” in the Patent. The Patent included the boundaries of the tract. The "250" acre tract only surveyed out to 184 acres and the allowance of 6 per cent per 100 acres for roads, (LDS micr[ofilm # 1004625). Thomas McCLURE became owner of the tract by conveyance dated 02 Sep 1774, which was recorded 08 Oct 1774, (LDS microfilm # 1028840). The survey was dated 27 Oct 1739 and the boundaries were: John BRANDON, [Sr.], on the West, Blue Mountain on the North, Thomas COOPER on the East, and Zachcus ALEXANDER on the South. Survey returned 17 May 1774, (Survey Book C7:42)].

This compiler has done extensive research on the early neighbors of the BRANDONs in Hanover Township to see if any of the information on their Warrants, Surveys, Patents, etc., mentioned an ORR that might have been the father of Arthur ORR, the Elder. Nothing was found. No tax lists are available anywhere for Lancaster Co., PA, from the date the county was created in 1729 through 1749. So far no record has been found of an “ORR” in early Hanover or Paxton Township records in what is now Dauphin Co., PA. Early neighbors (including their warrant dates) of John BRANDON, Jr. and Sr., in Hanover Township were:

Ezechias/Zachcus ALEXANDER (1737), James COOPER (1739), John COOPER (1738), Thomas COOPER (1739), Wm. COOPER (1740), Robert CURRY (1737), Wm. CURRY (1737), John GAMBLE (1739), James GRAHAM (1737), John HENRY (1737), Robert HUSTON (1739), John LEEPER (1734), John LINE (1739), Jacob MARTIN (1740), James MURPHY (1740), Wm. NUTT (1737), Sarah REDDELL/REDDLE/RIDDLE (1747), John WHITE (1739).

No record of survey, not returned: John GRAHAM (1737), Hugh McMULLIN (1737), Wm. McMULLIN (1737), Robert PATRICK (1734).

Miscellaneous:

Will of John WHITE of Hanover [Township] dated 29 Jan 1738. Wife Barbara, sons Alexander and Thomas, daughter Anna. Executors were trusty and well beloved friends John BRANDON and James FARGISON. Witnesses were John BRANDON, Zacheus ALEXANDER and James FARGISON. Will proved 19 Apr 1740. (Lancaster Co., PA Will Book A-1:44). [Source: Will abstract from “Lancaster Legacy,” (March 1984), Vol. I, No. 4, p 6].

Will of John CATHEY (also CATHIE) of Paxton Township dated 13 Sep 1742. Wife Ann, son Alexander, daughter Eleanor MOREHEAD (“if she comes to the contrey”). Grandchildren: Alice and John CATHIE, Jeane TRINDELL, and John GRAHAM. Executors: wife Ann and son Alexander. Witnesses were John BRANDON and Alexander CATHEY. Will proved 01 Mar 1742/43. (Lancaster Co., PA Will Book A-1:77). [Source: Will abstract from “Lancaster Legacy,” (March 1984), Vol. II, No. 3, pp 5-6]. (Note that Eleanor MOREHEAD was probably not living in America when John CATHEY’s will was written as Eleanor had not come to this “contrey”).
Other ORR Corrections

LDS microfilm # 1206369
(hand printed note, source unknown):

     James Orr, born 1746, Augusta Co. VA, died 1809 Washington Co. VA. married 1769
     Elizabeth Ann Orr, born 1750, died Aug 8, 1807. He served as a private in the Virginia
     infantry.
Resided in Washington Co. VA. during the Revolution. From “Roster and Soldiers,
     Tennessee Society of the D.A.R. 1894-1966.” 26313 Chattanooga
[??? hard to read].
     Children: Betty;
James, Jr., [born] Dec 31, 1772, m. 1795, Mary Carson, [died] 1842;
     Nancy; Archibald; Samuel; William.


*** James ORR who married Mary CARSON was not the son of James and Elizabeth ORR, James was the son of Arthur ORR, Sr. ***

Extensive research of Washington Co., VA records by this writer can find no evidence or records of a James ORR or his wife, Anna Elizabeth, in Washington Co., VA, as described in the above note. This corrective information has been added here because some people have relied on the incorrect information above for James ORR for their own family research, as have others that have used similar information in the following “Wills Family” history and a 1969 pedigree chart that has been widely distributed.


“The WILLS FAMILY of Johnson Co. Tenn.,” has the same misinformation about James ORR, Sr.:

     “I-. James Orr, Sr. was born in 1746 in Augusta Co. VA. and died in 1809 in Washington Co. VA.      He served in the Revolutionary War. He married 1769 and his wife Elizabeth, was born 1750
     and died 1810...


     “II-. James Orr, Jr. son of James Orr, Sr. was born 1772, died 1842. He married 1795 Mary Carson.
     She was born 1775, died 1840...”


[Source: “The WILLS FAMILY of Johnson Co. Tenn.,” (1960), by Carl B. Neal, (LDS Book No. 929.273 W685a, Salt Lake City, UT)].


A widely distributed 1969 Pedigree Chart of the ORR family also has the following misinformation included in it:

     James ORR, Sr., born in 1746 in Ireland or VA, married 1769 in Augusta Co., VA to
     Anna Elizabeth
[ ? ] who was born in 1750. James ORR, Sr., a Rev. soldier in the VA
     Cavalry,
died in 1809, Washington Co., VA and his wife, Anna Elizabeth, died in 1807.
     
Both are buried in Old Glade Springs. James ORR, Sr., was the son of Alexander ORR.

     The son of James ORR, Sr., and Anna Elizabeth, his wife, was James Orr, born 1772,
     died 25 Sep 1842 and married Mary “Polly” CARSON 20 Apr 1795.


Note: Any of the descendants of James and Mary “Polly” (CARSON) ORR that may have used the incorrect information on the father of James ORR to join organizations such as the D.A.R. may like to know that James ORR’s real father, Arthur ORR, Sr., was in the York Co. PA Militia in the Revolutionary War.

Arthur ORR, Sr., was on a list that includes names of men whose military service in the Rev. War has been proven (Arthur was proven by Margaret W. HUFF). [Source: “The Historical Society of Washington County, VA.,” Fortieth Anniversary Issue, Publication Series II, No. 13, May, 1976, pp 34-35].

Arthur ORR — Private of the Sixth Class, 5th Company, Commanded by Captain Francis Bonner, 6th Battalion York Co., PA Militia from Huntington Township, according to an Appeals Docket dated Huntington, 14 Dec 1781, according to which he “marched” as was required (i.e. not furnishing a substitute and not proving delinquent). (Sub. Lt. Book, M.S. Archives Division, PA State Library, Young, op. cit. Red series p 212; PA Archives 3rd Series, Vol. VII, p 51). [Source: “Nine Generations of Orrs in America,” p 30].

Arthur ORR — Private in the Fourth Company, Commanded by Captain John Zeigler, Ninth Battalion, York Co., PA Militia, according to a return for Oct 1783, dated 25 Nov 1783; during this time the private was not delinquent. (N.S., Archives Division, PA State Library, Young, op. cit., p 254). [Source: “Nine Generations of Orrs in America,” p 30].

“To Mr. John Maxwell of the fifth class of Tyrone Township. The under written persons are the fifth class residing in your respective township and you are hereby required to be particular in notifying each and every of them that the class is to procure one able bodied recruit to serve during the War agreeable to the foregoing directions, should the class hereunder written fail as aforesaid you are hereby required to notify us on or before the first day of March without fail.”

          “There follows the names of the 5th class:”

     1. Maxwell, John 13. Minch, Jacob          24. Spear, James
     2. Bream, Henry          14. Minch, Jacob, Junr.     25. Spangler, Peter
     3. Bready, Thomas     15. Murdock, Robert     26. Wray, Robert
     4. Clyne, Adam          16. Murdock, Mathew     27. Sitesinger, Leonard
     5. Dodds, Finley          17. Maxwell, John Junr.
     6. Dodds, John          18. Maxwell, James
     7. Hammond, John     19. Orr, Arthur
     8. Hutton, John          20. Reed, James
     9. Hammers, John     21. Reed, John
10. Leech, James     22. Reed, John Junr.
11. Leech, Robert     23. Spear, John
12. Leech, Henry

[Source: 1781 Tax List Book, Tyrone Township, York Co., PA (LDS microfilm # 0022238)].
Proofs that the James ORR, Sr. (who married Mary “Polly” CARSON) was the son of Arthur Orr, Sr.:


(1) Will of Arthur ORR, Sr., written 26 May 1814: “... and that the remainder of my estate after the aforesaid legacies, lawful debts and funeral charges are paid, be equally divided amonst my children, viz, James Orr...” “I do hereby constitute Samuel FULTON and my son James Orr executors of this my last Will and Testament...” [Washington Co., VA Will Book 4:59-61].

(2) Family Bible of James and Mary “Polly” (CARSON) ORR:

     “James Orr and Polly Carson was married 20 April 1795”
     “James Orr (birth) 31 Dec. 1772 — James Orr, Senior (death) 25 Sep. 1842”
     “Mary Carson (birth) 17 Dec. 1775 — Polly Orr, wife of James Orr (death) 20 Aug. 1840”

(3) Arthur ORR, Sr., and Ann, his wife, owned two contiguous tracts of land containing 174 ½ acres and 402 acres in Washington Co., VA. They sold 100 acres of the 174 ½ acre tract to Arthur’s son James and the balance to Arthur’s son-in-law, Issac McQUOWN. They also sold 120 acres of the 402 acre tract to Arthur’s sons Arthur and John. Arthur’s sons Patrick, Thomas and Joseph acquired the rest of the 402 acre tract.

19 Apr 1797 — Lewis Wills and Catharine, his wife, sold 174 ½ acres in Washington Co., VA, to Arthur ORR.
Deed ordered to be recorded: 16 May 1797. [Source: Wash. Co., VA Deed Book 1:533-535].

20 Feb 1798 — Arthur ORR, Sr., and Ann, his wife, sold 75 acres (of the above 174 ½ acres) to (their son-in-law), Isaac McQUOWN (husband of Arthur’s daughter, Ann). Deed ordered to be recorded on the same date. [Source: Wash. Co., VA Deed Book 2:27-28].

20 Feb 1798 — Arthur ORR, Sr., and Ann, his wife, sold 100 acres (of the above 174 ½ acres) to James ORR. Deed ordered to be recorded on the same date. [Source: Wash. Co., VA Deed Book 2:28-29].

01 Aug 1804 — Issac McQUOWN and Ann, his wife, sold their 75 acres to James ORR (therefore, making James ORR the owner of all of the above 174 ½ acres). Deed ordered to be recorded 21 Aug 1804. [Source: Wash. Co., VA Deed Book 3:177-178].

21 Jul 1795 — Lewis WILLS and Catharine, his wife, sold 402 acres in Washington Co., VA, to Arthur ORR.
Deed ordered to be recorded on the same date. [Source: Wash. Co., VA Deed Book 1:413].

22 Mar 1804 — Arthur ORR, Sr., and Ann, his wife, sold 120 acres (of the above 402 acres) to Arthur and John ORR. Ordered to be recorded 15 May 1804. [Source: Wash. Co., VA Deed Book 3:145-146].

17 Dec 1816 — Arthur ORR, Sr.’s executors, Arthur’s son James and Samuel FULTON, sold 282 acres (of the above 402 acres) to Arthur’s sons, Patrick, Thomas and Joseph ORR. [Source: Wash. Co., VA Deed Book 6:328].

03 Oct 1817 — Patrick ORR and Elizabeth, his wife; Thomas ORR and Elizabeth, his wife; and Joseph ORR, sold their 282 acres above to James ORR. Deed ordered to be recorded on the same date. [Source: Wash. Co., VA Deed Book 6:407-408].
— — —

A survey was made by virtue of a VA Land Office Treasury Warrant No. 2228 and dated 01 Jun 1834 for James ORR for 6 acres of land. This triangular shaped parcel bordered Wm. and Mary STEWART on the west, and James ORR’s 174 ½ acre tract on it’s north and east boundaries. The southern corner of the 6 acre tract was also a corner to the 276 acre 10 Jan 1787 survey of John GRAHAM (John GRAHAM’s last name was mistakenly written as “GRIMES” in James ORR’s above survey). [Source: Wash. Co., VA Survey Book 2:557]
ORR’s in Southwest Virginia.

There were three distinct ORR “families” in S.W. VA in the late 1700's. No connection has been found by this writer between Arthur ORR, the Elder’s family (and his descendants) and the families of Alexander ORR or Wm., John and James ORR below:

(1) Arthur ORR, the Elder, of Manor Township, Lancaster Co., PA; Tyrone and Huntington Townships, York (now Adams) Co., PA, and Washington Co., VA, and his descendants.

(2) Alexander ORR, who lived in what is now Giles Co., VA, in the vicinity of Walker’s Creek and Brushy Mountain, located in the S.W. corner of Giles Co. near Bland and Pulaski Co’s. Alexander ORR and his family later moved to Lee Co., VA.

“Alexander ORR who had previously settled in Tazewell County, VA., and later moved to Washington County (VA.). His wife’s maiden name was Margaret RAMSEY. They had 12 children, finally migrated to Lee County, VA., and settled near the mouth of the North Fork of Powell River, where Alexander later died.” [Sources: (1) “Early Settlers of Lee County, Virginia and Adjacent Counties,” Vol. 1:252-257, by Anne Wynn Laningham and Vol. 2:943-946, by Hattie Byrd Muncy Bales (Sutro Library, San Francisco, CA, F232 L4 L2 V.1 & V.2); (2) an undated Manuscript on Dr. John Couk ORR, Emory & Henry College, Emery, Washington Co., VA. (From the Memoirs of Dr. John C. ORR which were in the possession of his niece, Ms. Josephine Wolfe, of Dryden, VA)].

(3) William, John and James ORR were in the Rich Valley / North Fork of Holston River area in what is now Smyth Co., VA. The three later lived in Adair Co., KY.

A William ORR was taxed in Montgomery Co., VA in 1790 in the section of Montgomery Co. that is now Tazewell, Bland, the Rich Valley / N. Fork Holston River area of Smyth Co. and part of Wythe Co., VA.

A William ORR had a residence in the Rich Valley / N. Fork Holston River area on 26 Feb 1790.

A John ORR and his wife, Margaret, of Wythe Co., VA, on 13 Oct 1808, sold two tracts of land (70 acres and 80 acres), lying on the N. Fork of Holston River to Daniel DAUGHERTY for 200 pounds (Wythe Co., VA Deed Book 5:158). Smyth Co. was formed in 1832 from Wythe Co. and Washington Co., VA. Bland Co., VA, was formed in 1861 from Wythe, Giles and Tazewell counties. The N. Fork of the Holston River and Rich Valley extend from present day Washington Co., VA, into Bland and Smyth counties.

A John ORR and a Margaret BUCHANAN were married 24 Apr 1794 in Washington Co., VA, by Nicholas REAGAN. There were BUCHANAN’s living in Rich Valley in 1794. Also, James CRABTREE of Davidson Co., NC, sold 362 acres in Rich Valley to Nicholas REAGAN on 15 Sep 1788. Nicholas REAGAN sold 180 acres in Rich Valley that was contiguous to Walker’s Mtn. to Wm. WILSON on 12 May 1795.

A William ORR of Adair Co., KY, granted a power of attorney dated 24 Dec 1812 to John ORR and James ORR so that a 77 acre tract of land in Wythe Co., VA, on the N. Fork of the Holston River could be conveyed to Solomon McDANIEL. The tract was surveyed and patented in the name of Wm. FOSTER. John and James ORR were also from Adair Co., KY. [Source: Wythe Co., VA Deed Book 6:11-12].

A William ORR was in the 1800 tax list of Wythe Co., VA: 2 white males over 16, no slaves, 6 horses. A John ORR was also in the 1800 tax list of Wythe Co., VA: 1 white male over 16, no slaves, 4 horses. Both of these ORR’s were on tax list “A” which included the N. Fork of the Holston River and Rich Valley in present day Wythe, Smyth and Bland counties. [Source: Netti Schreiner-Yantis’ “1800 Tax Lists and Abstracts of Deeds, 1796-1800 of Wythe Co., VA,” (1971), p 3].
For additional ORR Family information by this compiler, see:

Families of Washington County and Bristol, Virginia, 1776-1996,” (1996), compiled by the Holston Territory Genealogical Society, PO Box 433, Bristol,VA-TN. Printed by Walsworth Publishing. LC # 96-061128.

     (1) Arthur ORR, the Elder, pp 266-267.

     (2) Captain James ORR, Sr., and Mary CARSON, pp 267-268.


Heritage of Smyth County Virginia, 1832-1997,” (1997), compiled by the Smyth County Heritage Book Committee, PO Box 222, Marion, VA 24354. Printed by Walsworth Publishing. LC # 97-60550.

     (1) Capt. James ORR, Jr., and Eliza Hope McSPADDEN, p 141.

     (2) Moses Carson ORR (son of James ORR, Jr.) and Mahala Love CLINE, pp 142-143.
Last Edited29 Dec 2013