Compiled by
Lee Alton Absher, M.D.
Knoxville, Tennessee
© Copyright 1966
Reprinted with permission
The Robert Hobdys, together with the Thomas Cottons came by wagons to Sumner County, Tennessee, from Halifax, North Carolina in 1795 or 1796. The Hobdys settled on acreage and established the Hobdy plantation, near the Kentucky line, in the present 13th district of Sumner County. The first tract of land, that is recorded as purchased by Robert Hobdy, was "86 acres on Drake' s Creek, purchased from John Payton, 15th of January, 1796, for $50."
Robert Hobdy was a carriage maker by trade. His wife's maiden name was Talitha Cotton. She was the older sister of Capt. Thomas Cotton, a Revolutionary soldier, who in 1795 first settled on a land grant and founded Cottontown, Tennessee. They were cousins, once removed, from John Cotton, who came with John Donelson and helped found Nashville, Tennessee.
Thomas Cotton was born November 4, 1748, in North Carolina, died June 5, 1795, at Cottontown, Sumner County, Tennessee. He married about 1769, in North Carolina, Priscilla Knight, who was born in Halifax County, North Carolina, December 7, 1748, and died at Cottontown, Tennessee, November 1, 1843.
Thomas Cotton is said to have been a Captain of Hertford County Militia during the Revolution.
The children of Thomas and Priscilla Cotton were: Moore; Mary (Polly), born 1770, married (1)....Cryer (2).....Foxall; Arthur, married Sally Daniel; John, born 1790; Allen, born March 12, 1781, married Polly Parham; Sarah, married Strother; Alexander, died fairly early; Noah, born 1785; Elizabeth (Betsy), died at seven (7); and Talitha, born 1778, married John Orr.
Moore Cotton was born December 27, 1771, in Hertford County, North Carolina; died December 13, 1836 at Cottontown, Sumner County, Tennessee; married (1) Miss Crawford; (2) Lovey Edwards who was born February 11, 1804 at Cottontown, Tennessee; died June 15, 1852, at Cottontown, Tennessee, daughter of Nathan Edwards and his wife Jemima Iris Cotton. The children by his first wife, ......Crawford were; Hugh, married Patience Edwards, Aunt of the Patience Edwards who married John Cotton; Alexander and William. The children of second wife Lovey Edwards were Thomas, James, a daughter, a daughter, and John who died March 31 1878, married Patience Edwards.
John Cotten kept a Journal over a period of forty years. It was kept from the time that he and his family left their ancestral home, on the Chowan River, in Bertie County, North Carolina, in 1771, almost to the time of his death in Tennessee, in 1811.
The journal includes the trip of the Cotten family, from their home to the settlement on the Watauga River of East Tennessee. It describes their trip in one of the flotilla of boats, of John Donelson's expedition. The trip of nearly one thousand miles was made in 1779. It was down the Holston and Tennessee Rivers and up the Ohio and Cumberland River to "The Bluffs" where Fort Nashborough was established.
The following is an exact quote from the pages of John Cotten's Journal, as it pertains to the relatives of the author:
......"only by God's grace, but striking my rifle and my left hand. Unable to loosen another firing arm from my saddle I drew my sword and charged into the three of them, reckoning myself as surely dead, but resolved to make the cost dear. While I thus engaged two of them Deem let fire her pistol and wounded the third; but not sufficient enough to remove him from threat. Exeter engaged one of the twain belaboring me, and was at the point of twisting his neck when the sound of hoofs from the south so unnerved the robbers that they fled into the brush, the charging rider giving chase from some distance. He returned while Deem was bind up my slight wound. I rose up, drawing my sword, expecting that but a greater robber had come, in place of our vanished enemies. He drew up before us, let down with a grand manner, lifted his hat and bowed low to Deem. It was not until he erected himself that I was enabled to view fully his countenance. So great was my relief upon knowing him that my sword fell from my hand and I embraced him with both arms in the while he thumped me heartily upon the back, laughing so loud the children withdrew in their Mother's skirts with some fear. For our rescuer was my Cousin Thomas Cotten from upper Bertie County. He related that he had been journeying home from beyond Hillsborough, where he had been to the Moravian villages and had sold some cattle. Even now he carried a great sum of money in trust for his Father and had been in dreadful fear of robbers. I expressed my surprise that a lad as young as he had been so doing for some years now. Of course, when I reflected likewise had I. But Thomas is nigh three years my junior, being at this time 22; however, he reminded me he would be 23 in November. He is married, two years I believe, has one child, a daughter, whom if I recollect rightly he called Polly - a strange name for a Cotten. This Thomas lives on the Roanoke River in upper Bertie County with his father Thomas who was brother to my father, Alexander, was some 8 years his senior. Uncle Thomas yet lives, though in very poor health; my Grandfather died two years past. We have much enjoyment recollecting family connections and narratives. My Grandfather often spoke of my Uncle Thomas with fond remembrance, relating how he assumed the responsibility of caring for him upon the death of their Father, and during the time their Mother rewed for a short stay. Uncle Thomas received no patrimony in lands but some little monies that had accrued to him enabled him to purchase lands in the western section of the colony on Roanoke River whereupon he built his Estate, called Stone House. This is at the juncture of Stone House Creek, which received its name from Uncle Thomas' house and the Roanoke River. Uncle Thomas, as Father remembered, wed Sarah Bridgers, daughter of William Bridgers of Bertie County, whom Grandfather knew exceedingly well, his wife having married his elder brother William in her widowhood. Uncle Thomas had served in the Indian Wars and was at some time a Member of the Assembly and a Collector of Quitrents. My Cousin Thomas, our Rescuer, was placed over the Plantation due to the debilitation of his Father, though he was not the eldest son. He has a sister, Talitha, and a brother, Lazarus, who are his elders. His juniors are John, Noah, Alexander, and Susannah. It appears that Uncle Thomas had little confidence in Lazarus due to an affliction that disturbs his mind; in consequence of which Cousin Thomas became head of the House in his Father's indisposition. Meeting Cousin Thomas set our journey at a halt, for we set camp at the very place where we had encountered the robbers. We spent much time in conversation, some of which I do not even recall now, but all concerned with the family. I recollect his home very well, having been there many times as a child. It was a house consisting of two stories made of stone. It stood at the confluence of the Creek and the River, facing in such a way as to command both. The entrance was plain, without galleries such as Barfield has, but cool and spacious rooms. A great Spring stood at the rear of the House, roofed over, with the sweetest water I ever tasted. I informed Cousin Thomas of my destination, and he was much distressed. He described a forbidding country for us, as he had heard it from various and sundry adventurers, having never been there himself. He spoke of great Bears, wild Cats and Savage Indians. My heart sinks when I think of it and of the predicament in which I have placed my precious Family. He expressed himself in a forceable manner, declaring that all the King's Horses could never drag him to such a place. My trepidation is all the greater for having spoke with him concerning the matter. I hope to Heaven itself that he is mistaken about the perils. It is a long after Sunset, for we have spoken at such length. All have found their bed save me. I have been sitting by the Firelight for some little time recording this I would that I could remember ever word, but at this time I cannot; Mayhap later more of our conversation will return. Cousin Thomas is staying the night with us, but on the Morrow we each shall continue our separate journies, peradventure never to meet again."
The Cotton-Cottens were one of the older families of North Carolina. Rev. J. W. L. Matlock has prepared an ancestral chart indicting the sources of the Cottens back to about 900. They were direct descendants of Sir Robert Bruce Cotten of England. The following chart shows the Cotten-Hobdy connection:
John Cotton married--Ann Hutcheson (Hutchison) (writer Re:Bacon's Rebellion)
John Cotton (1658-1728) married-- Martha Jones (second wife)
Thomas Cotton married-- Patience Bridgers
Talitha Cotton married-- Robert Hobdy (moved to Tennessee in 1796 or 1797)
This is documented by wills, etc. and by John Cotten's Journal now in possession of Rev. J. W. L.
Matlock.
John Cotton Sr. married Ann Hutchison. She wrote in regards to Bacon's Rebellion.
Their son - John Cotton Jr., first married Martha Godwin. They had a large number of children. The second wife of John Cotton Jr. was Martha Jones. She was the daughter of Col. Fredrick Jones, Supreme Court Justice of North Carolina. In Martha Jones ancestral family were the Swanns (from Sir Henry Swann) and the Lillingtons (Alexander Lillington). The Swann, Lillington and the Jones families were prominent in early Virginia and North Carolina.
John Cotton Jr. was born in 1658 and died in 1728 in Bertie County, North Carolina. John and Martha's youngest son was Thomas Cotton. He married Patience Bridgers, daughter of William Bridgers and Sarah Dew Bridgers. Sara Dew's father was John Dew of the Isle of Wight County, Virginia, who was speaker of the House of Burgesses in 1652. John Dew's wife was Susannah Shearer. Thomas and Patience Cotton had the following children: Talitha, Lazarus, Thomas, John, Noah and Alexander.
Thomas Cotton Sr. father of Talitha Cotton Hobdy, established an estate in Bertie County, North Carolina. According to John Cotten's Journal "Uncle Thomas received no patrimony in lands but some little monies that had accrued to him enabled him to purchase lands in the western section of the colony on Roanoke River, whereupon he built his estate called Stone House. This is at the juncture of Stone House Creek, which received its name from Uncle Thomas' house and the Roanoke River."
Robert Hobdy and Talitha Cotton were married in North Carolina. Their children were William, Richard, John, Thomas, Edmond, Elizabeth, Ropsy Anna, Hannah, Patience, Talitha, and Tobitha. They were all born in North Carolina. Robert died in 1797, in Sumner County, Tennessee. His will was probated in 1797 in the Sumner County Court. After Robert's death, Talitha married Dempsey Powell.
Will of Robert Hobdy
(Sumner County, Tennessee Will Book 1, Page 42)
In the name of God Amen: I Robert Hobdy of the County of Sumner and State of Tennessee,
being of sound and perfect mind and memory blessed be God - do this 16th day of January one
thousand seven hundred and ninety seven, make publish this my last will and Testament, In the
manner following that is to say:
First I lend unto my wife all my land and plantation during her natural life, at her death I do
give and bequeath the same land unto my youngest son Richard Hobday, if he lives to the age of
twenty years, but if he dies before that age to return to my son John Hobday to him and his heirs
forever. I give and bequeath unto my before mentioned son, Richard Hobday one large negro boy
named Cain. I likewise do give and bequeath unto my son John Hobday one negro boy named
Brit. I likewise give and bequeath unto my son William Hobday one negro boy named Ceasor. I
likewise give and bequeath unto my son Thomas one negro boy named Abram to them and their
heirs forever. Likewise I lend unto my wife Talitha Hobday one negro woman by the name of
Rose, also all of her children also one negro man by the name of Hardy and one boy by the name
of Abram during her natural life, also all my household and kitchen furniture one sorrell mare one
Horse by the name of Buck and all my plantation utensils also one Horse by the name of Frosend
Head, during her natural life, after her death, I give to my son Thomas Hobday the aforesaid
negro name Hardy to him and his heirs forever, if my negro Rose, doth live and have children, I
desire the first three she has from this time to belong to my three little daughters vis: to Patience,
Talitha and Tobitha to them and their heirs forever. I likewise give unto my daughter Elizabeth
Hobday after the death of my wife, one negro woman by the name of Rose to her and her heirs
forever. Likewise I give and bequeath unto my son Robert Hobday twenty shillings to him and his
heirs forever. Likewise I give unto my son Edmond Hobday twenty shillings to him and his heirs
forever. I give to my daughter Ropsy Anna twenty shillings to her and her heirs forever. I give
unto my daughter Hannah twenty shillings to her and her heirs forever. I also lend all the rest of
my estate to my wife during her life after her death to be equally divided amongst all my children.
I do appoint my wife and friend James Cryer and Moore Cotton my sole Executors. Robert
Hobdy (Seal) Signed sealed in the presence of William Carr, Peggy Carr, Moor Cotton.
Richard Hobdy
Richard Hobdy married Betsy Cotton in Sumner County, Tennessee, March 3, 1819.
Richard D. Hobdy's Will dated October 11, 1850, was probated in Sumner County, Tennessee, in Will Book 3, page 150, July 1851, names wife, Elizabeth. Also: Polly Edwards, Noah Hobdy, Rush Hobdy, Talitha Hobdy, William Hobdy, Frances Hobdy, Hugh Hobdy, John Hobdy, Robert M. Hobdy, Josiah Walton, executor. Witnesses signatures: John Cotton, A. J. Barrett.
John Hobdy
John Hobdy married Nancy Cummings, October 4, 1817, in Sumner County, Tennessee. John Hobdy also married Elizabeth C. Hodges, September 22, 1835. The Will of John Hobday dated June 30, 1852, was probated January 1853 in Sumner County, Tennessee, in Will Book 3, page 174. Wife, Betsey C., 4 sons: Thomas C., John W., Lycurges M., William L. Other devises: Tabitha Martin, Martha P. C. Hobdy, Mary E. T. E. Hobdy, Elvira Ann V. Hobdy, F_____J. W. Hobdy (maybe Frances, illegible), Catherine E. V. L. Hobdy. Also grandson John Elmore (or Elmon) Butler, son of William Butler and Margaret M. Butler (dead). Witnesses to signature: A. J. Hodges, Jr. and O. H. P. Duval.
The following summary is taken from the War of 1812 Bounty Lands and Pension Application of John Hobdy (Elizabeth C. Hodges) U. S. Mtd. Rangers, in National Archives.
John Hobdy, Elizabeth C., Pvt. Capt. John Donalson's Co., U. S. Mtd. Rangers, BLWt. 3616-160-150; WC 22544 for $8 p. m., Act of 9 March 1878, iss. 15 Apr. 1879.
John Hobdy, Sumner County, Tenn., 26 Oct 1850, 60 years old, deposed he enlisted in Davidson County, Tenn., discharged at camp near Murfreesborough. James Butler attested. John N. Smart, J. P. certified. Application for bounty lands under Act of 27 Sept 1850.
Elizabeth C. Hobdy, 11 May 1878, Sumner County, Tenn., widow of John Hobdy, applied for a pension Act of 9 March 1878; husband died 31 Dec 1852, she married him 22 Sept 1835, appointed Thomas Barry, Gallatin, Tenn., her attorney. Her post office was Fountain Head, Sumner County, Tenn. She signed her mark: Mrs. E. C. Hobdy.
Lee Perdue and Mary Perdue attested, and deposed they were acquainted with Elizabeth C. Hobdy for 6 years and her husband, John Hobdy, 45 years, that he was Pvt., in company of Capt Mathew Neal or perhaps Donelson, under Gen. Wm. Carroll, was in Battle of New Orleans, 8 Jan 1815; above still a widow. W. T. Lafferty, Deputy Clerk of the court, certified 31 July 1878.
The Third Auditor certified that John Hobdy was in Capt. John Donelson's company, U. S. Mtd Rangers, from 1 Sept 1814 to 1 Sept 1815 and paid for 12 months.
Elizabeth Clay Hobdy deposed 1 April 1879 regarding her full name; before A. B. Denning, J. P., attested by Litle Absher and G. J. Durham. O. H. Foster, Clerk of the court, Sumner County, Tenn., certified.
Discharge Certificate of John Hobdy in file, 1 Sept 1815, Camp near Murfreesburg, U. S. Mtd. Rangers, served 2 Sept 1814 to 1 Sept 1815, 12 months. Signed: John Donelson, Capt., U. S. Rangers.
Edward Duffer, 66 yrs., and Richard C. Butts, deposed they were acquainted with Jack Hobdy, who was in War of 1812, and dead 20 years or near; had been married to E. C. Hodges; had a first wife who died previous to this marriage (not named); they lived within 6 and 1 « miles respectively of Elizabeth C. Hobdy; deposition dated 7 Feb 1879, Sumner County, Tenn.
John Hobdy and Page Stalcup, Sumner County, Tenn. Marriage Bond to Governor of Tennessee, $1250, for intended marriage of John Hobdy and Elizabeth Hodges, 22 Sept. 1835.
Elizabeth C. Hobdy, Allen County, Ky., 7 Dec 1880, widow of John Hobdy, address New Roe, Allen County, Ky., requested transfer of her pension to Louisville, Ky., agency; was last paid at Knoxville Agency, to 4 Dec 1880, on Cert. 22544. Albert C. Anthony and William Haryralder (Hargrabler?) attested.
Elizabeth died 13 July 1899, according to a letter of J. N. Sherry, D. C. A. C. C., New Roe, Ky., 28 August 1899.
Friar Frail married Elizabeth Hobdy, January 30, 1836 in Sumner County, Tennessee.
Talitha and Tabitha Hobdy were twins. Talitha married William Byrn. They had two sons and four daughters. The sons were named Preston Byrn and Jackson C. Byrn. Tabitha married Joseph Hays, October 10, 1817 in Sumner County, Tennessee with John Hobdy as Bondsman.
Patience Hobdy married Jacob Cartwright. One of their sons, Alexander Cotton Cartwright, wrote the history of the Hobdy family.
William Hobdy
William Hobdy, son of Robert and Talitha, was born May 17, 1787, in North Carolina. He married Elizabeth Scruggs in Sumner County, Tennessee. He was an extensive farmer and slave owner. He probably built the large two story brick house on the Hobdy plantation, which was continuously occupied by the Hobdy family until it was sold by Dr. F. E. Hobdy in 1916. William Hobdy died in Sumner County, Tennessee, January 4, 1857. He was buried in the old Hobdy family cemetery on his farm. His short will recorded in Will Book 3, page 244, dated 1853, no month or day, was probated January, 1857. He gives land to son Jerome B. Hobdy, joining R. Butt. No other children were named. It was produced in court by Jerome N. Hobdy.
William and Elizabeth Hobdy had the following children: Mary L., Moore C., Jerome B., N. B. (Bone), Anniliza, William D., May, Vienna E., Mary M., and Elizabeth.
Their daughter, Mary L. Hobdy, was the author's great grandmother. She was born January 13, 1823, in Sumner County, Tennessee. She married William Smith Mayes. She died March 7, 1886, and is buried near her father in the Hobdy family cemetery.
Smith and Mary Hobdy Mayes' eldest daughter, Missouri Ann Mayes, was the author's grandmother. She married John Daniel Perdue.
Moore Cotton Hobdy settled in Simpson County, Kentucky. His children were Joseph Cotton Hobdy, James Hobdy, William Rabe and Mattie.
William Donaldson Hobdy
William Donalson Hobdy, who was born January 4, 1824, died November 5, 1876. He married Rebecca Ann Hargess, who was born October 2, 1838 and died March 6, 1908. They are both buried in the Hobdy family cemetery.
The will of William Donaldson Hobdy, dated June 21, 1875, probated November 1876 is in the Sumner County, Tennessee Will Book 4, page 141. He names a daughter, Eliza Mayes. He mentions "educating the five (5) children" whose names are William Hobdy, Moore Hobdy, Nancy Hobdy, Harriet Hobdy; youngest son, Fountain Hobdy; brother J. B. Hobdy, executor. Attest: J. B. Hobdy, Jas. L. Martin.
Eliza Hobdy who was born February 22, 1858, died April 8, 1924. She married Henry Mayes, who was born October 2, 1856 and died March 24, 1931. Their children were Lettie, Neely, Hugh, Matthew, Effie, Elsie, Annie and Douglas.
Moore C. Hobdy, son of William Donaldson Hobdy, married Ada Fowler. They had two daughters, Pauline and Ruth.
Harriet Hobdy married John Lewis Hill. They had two sons, Robert and Hugh B.
Two of the children, William and Fountain E. Hobdy, were physicians. Dr. F. E. Hobdy lived in Sumner County, near Portland, Tennessee. He married Addie Sarver. Their only child, Ailene, married Maynard Meguiar of Portland, Tennessee.
Jerome B. Hobdy
Jerome (Joe) b. Hobdy was born October 19, 1824 in Sumner County, Tennessee. He died January 11, 1912. He was married twice. He first married Louisa McGlothlin November 17, 1845. She was born March 5, 1825 and died Sept 17, 1859. They had the following children: Elizabeth Nancy, born October 17, 1846 and died November 11, 1861; William Thomas, born August 25, 1849; Mary Jane, born November 21, 1851; Lucinda Elvery, born August 9, 1854 and died October 9, 1861; and Eliza Ann, born April 22, 1858.
Jerome B. Hobdy married February 1, 1860, Nancy R. McGlothlin, his second wife. She was born September 19, 1825 and died December 20, 1907. They had the following children: Harriet Eller and Rebecca Allice (twins) born February 7, 1861; Harriet Eller died November 20, 1861; John Moore, born May 3, 1862 and died August 3, 1907; Amandy Ernest, born June 13, 1863; Henry Lafayette, born September 17, 1865; Volley Bell, born April 24, 1867; July Colfax and Charlie Grant (twins) born May 9, 1868.
July C. Hobdy married Thomas West. They had two sons, Paul and Brown.
The following excerpt is from the Carwright Family History of Nashville, Tennessee. It was written by Alexander Cotton Cartwright.
My mother's father, Robert Hobdy, lived in Northampton County, North Carolina, near the line of Beatie County, and near the Roanoake River, and not far distant from the town of Halifax. I have often heard my mother describe the great capture of fish by seining in the Roanoke.
The maiden name of Robert Hobdy's wife was Talitha Cotton, who was a sister of John Cotton who came with the Donelson party from Watauga and who lost much of his household goods by the upsetting of his boat at the Suck in the Tennessee below Chattanooga. John Cotton settled on Station Camp Creek, one mile below Cottowntown, and was the ancestor of the families of that name in Sumner and Davidson Counties. Some of the Cottons were noted in old times for rearing, ownership and training of fine race horses. When a boy, I remember old Arthur Cotton with his fine horses stopping with a relative of mine on his annual trip to the Nashville races.
Robert Hobdy emigrated with his family in wagons from North Carolina in 1796, and located in Sumner County on Drakes Creek a mile or two west of the site of the Beech Church. When a boy, I was riding with my mother on horseback on the Long Hollow Road near the head of the Hollow she pointed in a westerly direction, saying her father lived and died on a farm a mile or so distant. Grandfather Hobdy probably died within a year or two after reaching Tennessee, leaving a widow and eight children, four sons and four daughters. The sons were Thomas, William, John and Richard. The daughters were Elizabeth, Patience, Talitha and Tabitha. Thomas and Elizabeth were probably about grown when their father died. Robert Hobdy was a carriage maker by trade. The widow Talitha Cotton Hobdy, did not remain single many years. She married probably about the year 1800 to Dempsy Powell, a widower with seven or eight children, whom it was said she refused in their youthful days. They must have lived together nearly thirty years. I remember seeing them together when I was a small boy probably in 1828 or 1829. Grandmother Powell, as I remember her, was not tall, rather fleshy and with a round pleasant face. I used to ride behind my mother on horseback to visit them.
I will here tell what little I know of the brothers and sisters of my mother and their descendants. Thomas Hobdy, the oldest son of Robert and Talitha Hobdy, married and settled in Kentucky, but I do not know the locality. I never saw him or any of his descendants. It was said his wife had triplets, two of which were sons, one of these sons was a man of almost gigantic size.
Elizabeth Hobdy, the oldest daughter of Robert and Talitha Hobdy married William Rhodes and moved to West Tenn. at an early day. One of their sons, William C. Rhodes, visited my mother just before her death. I have never seen any of the family, or heard from them since. The Rhodes were related to the Sassaters of Manskers Creek.
William Hobdy married Elizabeth Scruggs of a well known old family of Davidson Co. They settled on a farm in the northern part of Sumner County beyond Fountain Head. They raised a large family of sons and daughters, most of whom have passed away. William Hobdy was a very excellent man, a plain sensible farmer, a man of great energy and who accumulated a good estate. He died at an advanced age in 1857. One of his sons, Esq. Joe Hobdy, about my age, lives in the Fountain Head neighborhood and is a man of influence and substance. Two older sons of William, N. B. (Bone) Hobdy and Moore C. Hobdy died, leaving families. Eliza Hobdy, the oldest daughter of William, married a man named Traill, who deserted her and was not heard of for several years. She obtained a divorce and married a Mr. Frazier, who died a few years later. Traill returned and courted and married Eliza the second time. Another daughter married a farmer named Mayes. The youngest daughter, Elizabeth, married Dr. Fonville, a grandson of Dr. Allen Mathes. One of the oldest daughters, Vienna, died unmarried. William, one of the younger sons, died young.
The third son of Robert and Talitha Hobdy was John Hobdy. I never saw his family but once and that was in 1844. His wife had died and his grown daughters were keeping house for him. The daughters names I have forgotten. One of them afterwards married a man named Martin. His two sons, Thomas and a younger one whose name I have forgotten, were clever amiable young men. But Uncle Jack as he was called, was the interesting character of that household. He was a fine specimen of young manhood, he was a gallant soldier under General Jackson, whom he greatly admired and took part in the Battle of New Orleans. It was interesting to hear him relate incidents of his early experiences and the flow of humor with which he seasoned all those narratives and even his social conversation added much to that interest. His ability to run a conversation added much to that interest. His ability to run a joke was simply inimitable. His manner and utterances were so ridiculous that the victim of the joke could never take offence. Few men possessed a warmer heart than Jack Hobdy. When he met his old friends and comrades in arms, generally at public gatherings, his greetings were most hearty and enjoyable and even strangers would listen to the good cheer and reminiscences that followed with a hearty attention and interest. These recollections of fifty years ago do but poorly describe the rare qualities of this good and gifted man.
Richard Hobdy was the youngest son of Robert and Talitha Hobdy. He married a relative, a Miss Cotton, a daughter of Moore Cotton, and settled on a farm near Cottontown in Sumner County. He raised a family of several sons and one or more daughters. I remember the names of four sons: Noah, Robert, John and Rush. All of whom I believe to be dead. A daughter married a Dr. Edwards of Sumner County. I met Rush Hobdy at Eldorado Springs some years ago. I have heard that he has since died. John Hobdy was an excellent mechanic, a noted builder and contractor, and I have heard, moved to West Tennessee many years ago. Robert Hobdy was a farmer near Cottontown and raised a large family. Noah Hobdy died when young. I remember Uncle Dick Hobdy fifty years ago as a pleasant kind hearty old gentleman, socially inclined, and his conversation abounded with much wit and humor. His music on the violin was very enjoyable.
The younger two children of Robert and Talitha Hobdy were twin daughters, Talitha and Tabitha. Talitha married William Byrn who owned and occupied the adjoining farm on the north of her stepfather, Dempsey Powell, at whose house she lived when married. They raised two sons and four daughters. Preston and Jackson C. Byrn were sons. The daughters were Jane, Harriet, Bettie and Mary.
Patience Hobdy married Jacob Cartwright.
THE SALE OF THE ESTATE OF WILLIAM HOBDY
Sumner county, Tennessee. Deed Book 26, page 241.
This Indenture made and entered into June 2nd 1866 between M. C. Hobdy, J. B. Hobdy, W.
S. Mays and his wife Mary D. Mays, Eliza J. Trail, John Lane and wife Ann Lane, Dr. E. L.
Fonvile, J. M. Hollis, Ned Turner and wife Mary M. Turner, Frank Butt and Sarah Butt his wife
W. A. Butt and Ann E. Butt his wife and William Butt and Pheby Butt his wife of the first part
and William D. Hobdy of the 2nd part. Said parties of the first part hath bargained and sold unto
William D. Hobdy his heirs or assigns a tract or parcel of land Lying and being in the county of
Sumner and State of Tennessee on the waters of Sulfer Fork of Drakes Creek Bounded as follows
to wit: Beginning on a chestnut running east 78 poles to a hickory thence south 22 poles to a
Gum Thence East 105 poles to a Stake and pointers thence South 20 poles to a hickory thence
West 58 poles to a stake and pointers thence South 78 poles to hickory thence West 120 «
poles to the Beginning Containing 94 acres by survey for which the said William D. Hobdy pays
Sixteen Dollars and Ten Cents per Acre part of the amount has been paid the ballance he has
executed his note for the receipt of which is hereby acknowledged the parties of the first part do
hereby convey unto the party of the 2nd part the foregoing described tract of Land with all its
appertencances thereunto belonging to the parties of the first part do hereby warrant and defend
the title to said Land against the Lawful Claims of all persons whatever in Witness whereof we
have hereunto set our names and seales the day and date above mentioned.
(M.D. Hobdy & others 6th Jany 1868 #200)
M. C. Hobdy (seal)
W. A. Butt (seal)
Anneliza Butt (seal)
W. E. Butt (seal)
P. L. Butt (seal)
J. B. Hobdy (seal)
W. S. Mayes (seal)
Mary D. Mayes (seal)
John L. Lane and May Lane
J. F. Butt & S. A. Butt
Mary M. Turner
E. L. Turner
Eliza J. Trail
Test: Elias (his X mark) Butt pro
R. C. (his X mark) Butt pro
State of Tennessee, Sumner County
Personally appeared before me John L. Bugg clerk of the county court of said county Elias
Suttle and R. C. Butt the subscribing witnesses to the foregoing deed who being first sworn
deposed and said that they are personally acquainted with M. C. Hobdy, W. A. Butt, Anneliza
Butt, W. E. Butt, P. J. Butt, J. B. Hobdy, W. S. Mayes, Mary D. Mayes, Jno L. Lain and Mary A.
Lain, J. F. Butt and S. E. Butt, Mary M. Tuner, E. L. Turner and Eliza J. Trail the bargainers and
that they acknowledged in their persence that they executed at office this the 6th day of January
1868. John L. Bugg Clerk by J. A. Trousdale DC rec for registration 6th Jay 1868 at 9 « o
clock AM Registered and examined the same day Rec R. O. Hallum Regr SC.
Sumner County, Tennessee Deed Book 28, 272
Jesse Cage, Clerk decree to Joseph Turner
State of Tennessee Sumner County Court November Term 1871
Jerome and M. C. Hobdy admrs vs Elizabeth Fonville als.
Be it remembered that this cause came on for hearing on this the 8th of Novr 1871 before Judge
Austin and it appearing Jas. F. Meader purchased at a Sale of the Real Estate of Wm Hobdy decd
a certain parcel of land containing 57 acres bid off by him at the Sale of the Real Estate of the said
Wm Hobdy decd report of sale and confirmation appearing on page 394 of Minute Book from
1853 to 1858 to Joseph Turner it further appearing that said purchaser had paid all the purchase
money and that no title had been decreed to him. It is therefore ordered and decreed that the title
to said 46 acres of land be divested from the heirs and representatives of Wm Hobdy decd and
vested in said Joseph Turner referance for metes and bounds being made to the report of surveyor
& commissioners in partitianing estate of Wm Hobdy decd State of Tennessee, Sumner County.
I, Jesse Cage Clerk of the County Court of said County certify that the foregoing is a full true and perfect copy of the decree vesting title in land in the case of Jerome and M. C. Hobdy Admrs vs. Elizabeth Fonville als as it appears of Record in the office witness my hand at office this 8th day of Novr 1871. Jesse Cage clerk recd for registration 8th Novr 1871 at 2 « oclock PM. Registered and examined the same day recd. R. O. Hallum Regr S. Coty.
Sumner County, Tennessee Minute Book 1853 to 1858, page 360
Ordered by the Court that Jerome B. Hobday and Moses C. Hobday be appointed adm. of Wm
Hobday decd, and thereupon the said Jerome B. Hobday and Moses C. Hobday together with
Joseph Wallace their security appeared in open Court & Entered into and acknowledged their
Bond to the State of Tennessee in the penal sum of seven thousand dollars conditions as the law
directs and were duly qualified.
The Sale of Slaves of William Hobdy
Sumner County, Tennessee
Minute Book 1853-1858, page 394
Jerome Hobdy & Moore C. Hobdy Admrs
vs. Elizabeth D. Fonville et als
Be it remembered this cause comeing on to be heard before the Hon Geo W. Allen Judge on
the 6th April 1857 upon former decrees in the cause and the report of the Clerk which is in the
words and figures following to wit:
Jerome Hobdy & Moore C. Hobdy Admrs
vs.
Elizabeth D. Fonville et als
John L. Bugg Clerk of the County Court, would report in the above cause that pursuant to an
interlocutory decree of the Hon County Court at the Term of said Court be proceeded after giving
thirty days notice at three public places in the County, to sell the negroe slaves belonging to the
Estate of the late Wm Hobdy at his residence in said county on the 23rd day of March 1857 at
public auction, when the slave Louisa was struck off to Mary D. Mayes she being the highest and
best bidder for the sum of $1,155.00 with Wm D. Hobdy as security due in twelves months, the
negroe boy Alfred was struck off to James Baron he being the highest and best bidder the sum of
$1,500.00 and his note taken with John L. Turner and C Buck as securities taken payable in
twelve months, Slave Ned was struck off to Elizabeth Hobdy she being the highest and best
bidder at $300 and her note taken with Jas L. Martin her security taken payable in twelve months
the slave Sampson was struck off to M. C. Hobdy he being the highest and best bidder at the sum
of $1400 and his note taken with the payment of $100 in cash J. B. Hobdy as security payable in
twelve months. John L. Bugg Clerk and which being unexcepted is in all things confirmed. It is
also ordered that the clerk take proof and report______? which would be a reasonable fee for
Geo. W. Winchester attorney in the above cause.
Jerome Hobdy et als ) exparted
Be it remembered this cause coming on to be heard before the Hon Geo. W. Allen Judge &
son the 6th of April 1857 upon the former decree in the cause and the report of the Clerk which is
in the words and figures following to wit:
Jerome Hobdy et als
the County Court report in the above cause that pursuant to an interlocutory decree pronounced
at the term of the Hon Court he proceeded after giving forty days at three public places in the
county to sell the tract of land mentioned in the pleadings and belonging to the heirs of Wm
Hobdy decd in four distinct parcels upon one and two years time and the same being offered at
public auction on the premises on the 23rd day of March 1857 & E. D. Fonville being the highest
bidder for the first lot of 225 acres the same struck off to him at $8.00 per acre and his two notes
with Danl G. Perdue for $911.25 each makeing the sum of $1,822.50 and J. F. Meador being the
highest and best bidder for lot No. 2 containing 57 acres, the same was struck off to him at $655
and his two notes with Jos Turner as Security payable in one and two years respectively for the
sume of $??. each makeing the sum of $373.35 and W. Hobdy being the highest and best bidder
for lot No. 3 of 94 acres the same was struck off to him at the price of $7.65 per acre and his two
notes with F. Trail as security taken payable in one & two years respectively for the sum of
$359.55 each making together the sum of $719.10 another lot of one hundred known as the mill
tract there being no bidders were not sold all of which is respectfully submitted. John L. Bugg
Clerk
April Term 1857
which being unexcepted is all things confirmed and it appearing to the Court that one parcel of
said land to wit the mill tract of about 100 acres was not sold for the want of bidders, it is ordered
by the court that the clerk expose the said tract to public sale again on the premises after giveing
forty days notice at the court house door in the Town of Gallatin and three or more public places
in the County, the necessity in the advertising in a newspaper being waved by the parties and offer
the same for sale upon the terms heretofore stated in a previous decree in this cause and that the
minimum price be considered as heretofore fixed at $12.00 and that $100.00 of the purchase
money when said be paid in cash to meet the expenses of the lands sold heretofore made in this
cause together with this sale. It is further ordered that reference be made to the Clerk to take
proof and report what would be a reasonable fee to Attorney Geo. W. Winchester in the above a
cause.