Rev War Patriot Corporal Hugh Harris Sr. Timeline



Revolutionary War Veteran Corporal Hugh Harris Sr. Timeline By Beth Bradford-Pytel Updated 10/21/23

PHOTO: New Salem Church and Cemetery, Limestone, Washington Co., Tennessee. According to his original headstone, Hugh Harris Sr. was a member of the church when he moved to this area from Flag Pond, Unicoi Co., Tennessee sometime after 1840. He and his 2nd wife's graves are located near Lester Snapp Road. Photo taken Feb. 2014 bbpytel.


	HUGH HARRIS SR. Born: Bet. 1755-1758 in Virginia (Amelia Co.?) Parents: unknown Married: 1st unknown (possibly Sarah Hall?); children: Hugh Harris Jr., Mary Harris-Bell, George L. Harris. Married: 2nd Elizabeth Jackson on September 5, 1834, Washington Co., TN. No children together. Died: February 13, 1855, Broylesville, Washington Co., TN Burial: New Salem Church Cemetery, Limestone (Broylesville area), Washington Co., TN PHOTO: Taken February 2014 during my visit which I placed an American Flag. There is a fieldstone to the right which I believe is Elizabeth Jackson-Harris' plot. His original marker states: "HUGH HARRIS SR. - REVOLUTIONARY WAR SOLDIER 3 YEARS UNDER GEN WASHINGTON WAS 18 YEARS A MEMBER OF THIS BAPTIST CHURCH --DIED A CHRISTIAN FEB 11TH 1855 AGED 106 YEARS"
Another photo which shows the above inscription on his stone taken by Lisa Harris in 2008. According to the Herald & Tribune, Jonesborough, Tennessee, Hugh Harris' patriot ground stone was installed in 2010 by The Kings Mountain Chapter Tennessee Society Sons of the American Revolution. A ceremony was held on May 8, 2010 at 11:00 a.m. at the burial place.
PREFACE: The purpose of the timeline is to capture the facts as we know from records and piece together through logic and circumstantial evidence the missing parts. I have added commentary to provoke collaboration on possibilities for further research. Hugh Harris Sr. is my 5G grandfather through his son Hugh Harris Jr., and his son Jason Laws Harris, and his son Nathan Dempsey Harris and his daughter, Bessie Marie Harris of the Flag Pond area of Unicoi Co., Tennessee. Feel free to email me. I look forward to hearing from you and your feedback. PENSION W27542 (webpage) PENSION W27542 (PDF)
1755-1758 born in Virginia: According to his Pension Deposition (W-25743) of 1823, he declared himself “age 68” which would put his birth year 1755. In the 1840 Washington Co. Tennessee Census (pg. 233), he was noted "age 84" placing his birth date 1756. Per the 1840/1841 “Census of Rev. War Pensioners” which included age and place of residence, Huge declared himself age 84 (thus born 1756). Per the 1850 Census, he declared he was born in Virginia and age 92, placing his birth year 1758. His Revolutionary War tombstone states he was born 1749 (age 109) which was probably due to his obituary published in the “Hartford Weekly Times” on May 5, 1855 as being "in the 110th year of his age". According to the The Charles R. Hale Collection of Connecticut Cemetery Inscriptions, it recorded him as being “born 1746 and died February 13, 1855 in Jonesboro, Tennessee at age 109.” My deduction is that he was born about 1755 and it was quite common that people would pad their age as a centenarian for Biblical reasons.
1755 through 1775: For the next twenty years, while Hugh was growing up, I was unable find any record referencing or connecting him to any parents. Based on the foregoing records mentioned on this webpage, it is highly probable he was connected to the Edward E. Harris (b. 1676-1746) line through one of his children (of course DNA testing this will prove out). This suspicion is based on the migration of Nathaniel Harris (b. 1702 – d. 1773; s/o Edward E. Harris and Unity) from Amelia Co., Virginia down to Orange Co., North Carolina and settling in the Flat River/ Dyals (Dials) Creek area near present day Bahama. We know Hugh Harris enlisted in Orange Co., NC in the 4th NC Regiment of the Continental Army. After the war, he returned and acquired 70 acres in the Flat River area of Bahama and started a family. Orange Co., North Carolina was formed in 1752 from Granville, Bladen and Johnston counties. Nathaniel Harris and wife Ellender Sullivan lived in the St. Matthews Parish (originally Granville which became Orange Co., NC) and owned a mill. Nathaniel arrived in this area in the 1750s and his land was located near present day Lake Michie. The small community of Bahama (pronounced Ba-Hay-Ma, a portmanteau from the surnames of three prominent area families, Ball, Harris, and Mangum) in the northeastern part of present day Durham Co. Before coming to North Carolina, Nathaniel lived in Prince Edward, Halifax and Amelia Co., Virginia. Archer Harris (b. 1744 in Amelia Co., VA) was the son of Nathaniel and credited as being the founder of the first Meetinghouse in Bahama that was opened to both white and black folks and once stood where the current Mount Bethel United Methodist Church now sits. Archer's father, Nathaniel, donated a portion of his land for this meeting house. We know Hugh Harris is not the son of Nathaniel Harris and Ellender Sullivan because Nathaniel's Will, filed in Orange Co., NC in June 1773 and proved in May 1774, stated wife Ellender; sons: Nathaniel, Archer, Edward, Charles; Daughters: Unity (Callahan) and Lenora (Burks); Executor Edward Harris. However, I suspect he may be an uncle and son Archer a first cousin to Hugh. We may never be able to prove the relationship, but the land records and migration pattern of this Harris line are compelling that Hugh was part of the Bahama Harris Clan.
May 20, 1776 Orange Co., NC – War Service: Hugh enlisted in Orange Co., North Carolina for 3 years as Private in the 4th NC Regiment, Capt. Roger Moore’s Company under the command of General Nash. His pension file stated that he fought in the Battles of Germantown (PA) and Monmouth (NJ) and “several other engagements.” Assuming Hugh was born in 1755, he would have been about 21 years old and a resident of Orange Co., NC when he enlisted. His parents (unknown at this time) may have established a residence in Orange Co. at the time of his enlistment or he followed relatives to Orange Co. from Virginia. KEY PATRIOTS ASSOCIATED WITH HUGH HARRIS: 4th N.C. Regiment Lafayette’s Division, North Carolina Brigade: Organized on April 15, 1776 at Wilmington, NC and included 8 companies from Salisbury, Edenton, and Wilmington Districts for the service with the Continental Army under the command of Thomas Polk. On Feb 5, 1777, it was re-assigned to the Northern Department and on July 8, 1777, assigned to the NC Brigade. Objective: Defense for Philadelphia. The regiment fought in the Battles of Brandywine (PA), Germantown (PA), and Monmouth (NJ) while attached to the Northern Department and was camped at Valley Forge, PA from 1777-1778. The regiment was so depleted it was sent back to North Carolina to recruit new men. In the fall of 1778, the 4th N.C. Regiment was re-organized in Halifax, North Carolina mustering new recruits for another 9-month service. The regiment disbanded on November 15, 1783. Captain Roger Moore: In 1775 he was Captain of the Edenton District Minutemen. April 17, 1776, was Captain of the 4th N.C. Militia; resigned November 1776. His unit was taken over by Captain William Goodman. Capt. Moore was taken Prisoner at Charleston, South Carolina on May 12, 1780. Captain William Goodman: 1st Lieutenant of the 4th N.C. under Colonel Thomas Polk and then promoted on Oct. 1, 1776. November 1776 took over Captain Roger Moore’s company since he resigned. Goodman’s company fought in the battles of Germantown, Brandywine, Monmouth and camped at Valley Forge during those campaigns. He was killed at Eutaw Springs, South Carolina on September 8, 1781. Lt Colonel Francis Nash: 1st. NC Regiment Sept. 1, 1775; Col. Apr. 10, 1776; Brig. General of the Continental Army February 5, 1777. On April 15, 1777 he was placed in command of the North Carolina Brigade which included the 4th NC Regiment. He died on October 7, 1777 from wounds received at Germantown on October 4, 1777. Francis Nash was born in Amelia, Virginia and in 1763, moved down to the Hillsborough section of Orange Co., North Carolina on the Eno River.
September 11, 1777 - War Service - Brandywine Creek, PA: Private Hugh fought in the Battle of Brandywine Creek, PA in the 4th NC Regiment led by Captain Goodman. The date is supported by Captain Goodman’s service record. October 4, 1777 – War Service - Germantown, PA: Private Hugh fought in the Battle of Germantown, PA in the 4th NC Regiment led by Captain Goodman. Date supported by Captain Goodman’s service record. December 1777 – War Service - Valley Forge, PA : The 4th NC Regiment led by Captain Goodman camped out at Valley Forge after the battles of Brandywine and Germantown. It's presumed that Pvt. Hugh Harris was at Valley Forge while serving in Goodman’s company. June 28, 1778 – War Service - Monmouth, NJ: Private Hugh fought in the Battle of Monmouth, NJ in the 4th NC Regiment led by Captain Goodman. Date supported by Captain Goodman’s service record. November 10, 1778 – War Service: Private Hugh promoted to Corporal. 1778 – War Service - Halifax, NC: Corporal Hugh re-enlisted for an additional 6 months in Halifax, NC serving under Captain William Goodman. May 20, 1779 – War Service: Corporal Hugh was discharged from service in Paramus, New Jersey by Colonel Clark. It was a long journey back home to Orange Co., North Carolina either by boat or via the Great Wagon Trail. This would explain why Hugh was not indicated on the 1779 Orange Co., NC Tax list. There were other Harris’ noted in Orange Co: Archer Harris, Edward Harris, James Harris, Richmond Harris twice (Jr and Sr?), William Harris. Also several Halls; Peter, Thomas and William McFarling and James and Elijah Mashburn. September 1, 1784 – Pay for War Service: Hugh Harris, a soldier of the North Carolina Continental Line received 52 pounds, 8 shillings and 9 pence payment on June 1, 1779 with fixed percent interest for his service. The back side of the pay receipt #35 dated September 1, 1784 from Halifax District, showed he received payment on April 12, 1788, with interest. SOURCE: North Carolina Revolutionary Pay Vouchers, 1779-1782," database with images, https://familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:Q2WT-G4MS, Hugh Harris, 01 Jun 1779; citing North Carolina, United States, State Archives of North Carolina, Raleigh.

(Speculative): February 23, 1785 - Marriage, Northern Neck, VA There is a marriage record between a “Hugh Harris and a widow Sarah Hall.” However, there is no proof or certainty it is this Hugh. I mentioned this for consideration for further research. Perhaps while Hugh was in route from New Jersey back to Orange Co., North Carolina, he married. There were Halls noted in Orange, and Wilkes Co. Morgan District in the 1800 Census which offer a curious connection.
March 17, 1788, Orange Co., NC (now Durham Co): Entry File No. 255 dated March 17, 1788, Grant #1144, Hugh Harris enters for “70 acres on the Flat River,” Orange Co., NC, Issued/approved on July 16, 1795 File #2063; Source: “NC Land Grants, Book 87, pg. 399.” According to the “North Carolina Land Grant Entry Book, Orange Co. Vol. 2”, by Stewart E. Dunaway ISBN 978-0-557-32005-9; pg. 192, it shows that “Grant #255, Entered March 17, 1788 to Hugh Harris, Flat River, 100 acres, Waters of Flat River adjacent to Ansel Paris [Ansel Parish], William Farling [William McFarling] and others; SCC: James Walker and Elijah "Mashburne" Granted on November 24, 1788” Although there is a discrepancy in the acreage between both sources, I am inclined to believe he originally entered 100 acres which was granted the same year. Later, it was noted as “70 acres” when the Grant was approved in a different NC log in 1795. Per the 1790 NC Tax list, Hugh was taxed on 70 acres. Either way, this is proof Hugh moved back to Orange Co., NC after the war. Also it is important to note that Archer Harris also lived on the Flat River owning a 1000 acres, as well as, James Mashburn, Peter McFarling (neighbor of Archer Harris) and William McFarling (a neighbor Hugh). Consider the following land grants that afford a familiar connection to Hugh: ARCHER HARRIS: Entry File #188, Entered in 1781 – 160 acres on Dyles Creek – a branch of Flat River; Approved in 1781 with Grant #754; Source: NC Land Grants, File 1617, Book 57, pg. 132. ARCHIE HARRIS: Grant #272, May 26, 1789 - 50 acres on the Flat River and Dyals Creek adjacent land of James Hunter, Julius King and his own –no warrant issue date. Source: “NC Land Grant Entry Book, Orange Co. Vol. 2”, by Stewart E. Dunaway, pg. 192. ARCHER HARRIS: Grant #282, August 8, 1789 - 200 acres on the Flat River; Both sides of the Flat River adjacent to Peter McFarling, William Smallwood and John Dickie, Warrant Issued November 20, 1789. Source: “NC Land Grant Entry Book, Orange Co. Vol. 2”, by Stewart E. Dunaway, pg. 192.
1790 Tax Census Orange Co., NC: After the war, Hugh returned to his hometown of the St. Mary’s District of Orange Co. North Carolina. There is no household census for Orange Co. because it was destroyed. However, a Tax Roster was compiled in order of enumeration which showed a 35 year old Hugh Harris living next door to Thomas Dorsett one side and William McFarlin Jr. on the other. Other persons of interest noted in this district were: Edmund and Archer Harris; Josiah Mashburn Sr. and Elisha Mashburn about 20 houses down from Hugh. http://www.wikitree.com/photo.php/d/d9/Harris-12088-1.jpg Below are the Orange Co., NC taxable heads for Bell / Harris / Hall: 1772–BELL: James Bell; Samuel Bell; William Bell 1755-HARRIS: John Harris; Thomson Harris 1779-HARRIS: Archer Harris; Edward Harris; James Harris; Jeremiah Harris; Richmond Harris; William Harris 1779-HALL: Benjamin Hall; David Hall, James Hall, John Hall, Levi Hall, Robert Hall Sr., Robert Hall Jr., Thomas Hall. (Many of the aforementioned Harris’ migrated from Amelia Co., Virginia to settle in Orange Co.) SOURCE: Year: 1790; Census Place: Orange, North Carolina; Series: M637; Roll: 7; Page: 96; Family History Library Film: 0568147. Original data: First Census of the United States, 1790 (NARA microfilm publication M637, 12 rolls). Records of the Bureau of the Census, Record Group 29. National Archives, Washington, D.C.
1790-1799, Orange Co., NC: The birth of Hugh Harris Jr. and George L. Harris. This is supported by the 1800 Wilkes Co., NC Census in which there are two sons in the HH in the 0-10 age group (see below).
July 16, 1795, Orange Co., NC: This was the approval date of Hugh Harris’ land entry File No. 2063, for 70 acres on the Flat River (entered on March 17, 1788).
1796, Orange Co., NC - Land Transfer: Orange Co. Deed Book 5/606, Hugh Harris sells to Anthony Cozart his 70 acres of land on the waters of the Flat River, adjacent to Ansel Parish and William Montgomery. In 1810, Anthony Cozart ended up selling Hugh’s former 70 acre parcel to William Montgomery. The sale of Hugh's property in 1796 verified his migration west to Wilkes Co. and enumerated in the 1800 Census.
1800 Wilkes Co., NC Census, Morgan District: This Census was compiled in alpha order so we do not get the benefit of seeing the neighbors of Hugh. Hugh left Orange Co. and moved west to Wilkes where there were 8 people in the HH to include one slave. I am compelled this is patriot Hugh because of the age groups: MALE: 2 = [under 10] 1= [45+] FEMALE: 1= [under 10] 2= [10-15] 1= [16-25] 1= [45+] One slave OPINION: The males are Hugh Sr., Hugh Jr. and George L. The females, widow wife Sarah Hall? and her 3 daughters from first the marriage and the youngest whom she sired with Hugh, Mary Harris who later married Richard Bell. The Slave - perhaps willed to Sarah Hall from the death of her first husband and she brought her from VA? Other Harris’ noted in this alpha only census are Nathaniel Harris (head); Susannah Harris (head); James Harris (head). Also, there is a Robert Hall two doors down from Hugh and an Ebenezer Hall one door down from Susannah Harris. Perhaps Robert and Ebenezer Hall were related to Sarah Hall of 1785 allegedly married to Hugh Sr.? SOURCE: 1800; Census Place: Morgan, Wilkes, North Carolina; Series: M32; Roll: 33; Page: 44; Image: 491; Family History Library Film: 337909. Second Census of the United States, 1800. NARA microfilm publication M32 (52 rolls). Records of the Bureau of the Census, Record Group 29. National Archives, Washington, D.C.

December 19, 1803 - Land Grants Burke Co., NC: Hugh moved over to Burke Co., NC and secured two parcels with grants #3475 and #3476 (50 acres each) "Hugh Harriss" on the waters of Muddy Creek. This area was near Marion (now McDowell Co.) This was the same area Elisha Mashburn Sr. also formerly lived in Orange Co., NC. Hugh Harris’ neighbor was James Mashburn on the east. File No. 3475 - Hugh Harriss [Harris] 50 acres on the Waters of Muddy Creek Bounded by said Harris on N. & S. County: Burke Co., NC Issued: 19 Dec 1803 Book: 117 pg: 315 Grant No.: 3240 Entered: 24 Sep 1802 Entry no.: 4485 File no.: 3475 File No. 3476 - Hugh Harris 50 acres on the Waters of Muddy Creek Bounded by said Harris's on the N. and James Marshburn on the East County: Burke, NC Issued: 19 Dec 1803 Book: 117 pg: 315 Grant no.: 3241 Entered: 24 Sep 1802 Entry no.: 4486 File no.: 3476

November 1, 1805 - Land Grant Burke Co., NC: File No. 0484, Hugh Harris enters 100 acres on Young’s fork of the Muddy Creek, Burke Co., NC. This area is near Marion (now McDowell Co.) This is the same area where Elisha Mashburn Sr. also lived and formerly lived in Orange Co., NC. Issued: No date because patent was not recorded; No Book: Page because patent not recorded Entered: 01 Nov 1805 Entry no.: 5141 File no.: 0484 MARS: 12.14.36.6887 SOURCE: Data courtesy of the State Archives of North Carolina MARS database
1810 Burke Co., NC Census, Morganton District: Hugh Harris is living in the Morganton District of Burke Co. on the Muddy Creek per his land grant in 1805. This area is near Marion (now McDowell Co.). He is noted as living next door to Elisha Mashburn on one side and Samuel Hawkins on the other. Males: 1= [0-10] 1=[10-15] 1=[45+] Females: 1=[10-15] 1=[16-25] 1=[45+] Number of Household Members Under 16: 3 Number of Household Members Over 25: 2 Number of Household Members: 6 NOTE: 3 of the daughters are now gone either married or died; both sons are still living in the HH. SOURCE: 1810; Census Place: Morganton, Burke, North Carolina; Roll: 39; Page: 342; Image: 00236; Family History Library Film: 0337912. Third Census of the United States, 1810. (NARA microfilm publication M252, 71 rolls). Bureau of the Census, Record Group 29. National Archives, Washington, D.C.

1818 Burke Co., NC: Hugh Harris was mentioned in the Land Grant #4314 of John Carson filed in Burke Co., North Carolina for 640 acres and it stated: “On both sides of the waggon road leading from the Peasant [Pleasant] Garden to Hugh Harrises” This area is now in McDowell Co. near Marion. This proved Hugh was still living the area at this time and lived near prominent leader Colonel John Carson (1752 – 1841). "Col. John Carson, one of the wealthiest and respected citizens of the county, resided during his long life on the beautiful stream known as Buck Creek, having its source near the crest of the Blue Ridge.” http://files.usgwarchives.net/nc/burke/bios/brkbios4.txt
March 24, 1819, Burke Co., NC: Hugh Harris was a witness to the marriage of Jeremiah Mashburn to Mary Polly Kelly. This could be Hugh Harris Jr. serving as a witness to the Mashburns whom they came to know while living in Orange Co., NC during the 1790 Census. Also Abel Harris was a witness to David Mashburn marriage to Mary Woody on Jan. 19, 1824. It is my feel that Abel Harris and this Hugh Harris are related. At this time, Burke Co. encompassed all of Mitchell, Yancey, McDowell and a segment of Buncombe. RE: Burke Co. Marriage Bonds http://www.ncgenweb.us/burke/burke-mb.txt
August 23, 1819, Buncombe Co., NC: Per the Buncombe Co., NC Register of Deeds , CMD1, Pg. 406, “A deed from John Radford (seller) to Hugh Harris (buyer) for 190 acres was proven in open Court by the oath of A. Jervis a subscribing witness thereto & ordered to be Registered.” In 1818, Hugh Harris left Burke Co. and moved farther west to Buncombe Co. (now Bald Creek in now Yancey Co., NC) According to "Early Northeast Buncombe Co., NC Land Records", Hugh Harris Sr. and Hugh Harris Jr.'s 3 parcels were located on Mill Pond Branch, a tributary which feeds into the Bald Creek River. Records show they were joint grantees of three parcels: #4925 of 44 acres, #4926 of 100 acres and #4927 44 acres of "Bald Creek". These parcels were adjacent to Washington Hensley's 200 acres which was directly across his father's, Henry "Harry" Hensley, 200 acre parcel. This area is located at present day Bald Creek area of US Hwy 19, on Sam Robertson Road. This explains how the Hugh Harris family came to know the Hensley clan. SOURCE: "Early Northeast Buncombe County, NC Land Records" by Dorinda Whitley, 2014; Vol. I, pg. 567; Land Record Ref. Yancey 1-29, Plats #4925, #4926, and #4927, Map 17;. Vol. 3, pg. 477; Vol. 4, pg. 58.
1820 Buncombe Co., NC. Census: Hugh Harris Sr. was listed as head with a female (wife) both in the 45+ age group. Also indicated are William Harris and Richard Bell (b. 1786) respectively. Richard Bell married Mary Harris (b. 1781) (d/o Hugh Harris Sr.) and their son Hugh H. Bell (b. 1813) eventually married Sarah Higgins (d/o Holland Higgins and Barbara Hensley) on Oct. 26, 1834, in Wash Co., TN. Per the 1820 Buncombe Co. Census: Richard Bell (married Mary Harris) is noted; William Harris and family noted. Order of Enumeration - 1820 Buncombe Co., NC Census - pg 100-101 (Caney River area): William Harris 000100-10100-0100 [heir of Samuel Harris who owned 200 acres in Pensacola - no relation to Hugh] Richard Bell 200010-00010-0100 [wife is Mary Harris d/o Hugh Harris Sr.] Ephraim Piercy 100100-20010-0100 George Wilson 110010-41010-0100 William Wilson 020010-50010-0300 Joseph Scott 500010-00010-0100 Benjamin Hensley 510010-10010-0200 [s/o Henry Hensley Sr and Barbara Angel] William Bird 300110-00210-0200 Henry Hensley (Sen.) 101301-00101-0400-0000-0100 [wife Barbara Angel; 1 female slave Dice] Stephen Edwards 300010-30010-0100 1820 Buncombe Co., NC Census - pg 104-105: John Elkins 001110-01001-0200 Hugh Harris 000001-00001-0100 [Hugh Harris Sr. and first wife] John Ramsey 300101-11001-0300 Lemuel Waters 200100-00100-0100 William Moore 201101-21101-0200
February 13, 1820, Buncombe Co., NC: (Bald Creek area of now Yancey Co.) Hugh Harris Sr. and Hugh Harris Jr. were witnesses to a land transfer/sell of 10 acres from Henry Hensley to Jesse Radford on “Sing Fork of Bald Mountain Creek." The land was adjacent to Washington Hensley’s line and the Jurat whoo approved the transfer was John Hensley. NOTE: This is proof that Hugh Jr. and Sr. were acquainted with Rev. War Veteran Sgt. Henry “Harry” Hensley clan at this time. Benjamin Hensley’s (s/o Henry Hensley and Barbara Angel) daughter, Nancy Hensley married Jason L. Harris (s/o Hugh Harris Jr.). Benjamin Hensley migrated to Washington Co., Tennessee and became neighbors with Hugh Harris as his property was adjacent to his. It is possible Hugh Harris and Benjamin Hensley and Richard Bell all migrated up north about the same time.
Between 1820 and 1822, Washington Co., Tennessee: Hugh Jr. and Hugh Sr. moved over to the Tennessee side and established residences in the Flag Pond Stamp Ridge area living near Richard Bell, Benjamin Hensley and Holland Higgins.
June 29, 1822, Greasy Cove, (now Erwin) Washington Co., TN: Hugh Harris (not sure Jr. or Sr.) was listed as one of the original members of the Indian Creek Baptist Church (now called the First Baptist Church of Erwin) which was a log building located at Indian Creek and RR Depot in Erwin.
October 17, 1823 – Deposition, Washington Co., TN: Revolutionary War Pension Application W25743. In his deposition he declared the following under oath: 1. Age 68 (placing birth year around 1755) 2. Resident of Washington Co. TN 3. May 1776 enlisted in Orange Co., NC into the 4th Regiment of the Continental Army for 2.5 years serving in Captain Roger Moore’s unit under the Command of General Francis Nash; fought in the Battles of Germantown (PA) and Monmouth (NJ) and “several other” engagements. 4. Enlisted again for 6 months in Halifax, NC under William Goodman 5. Discharged by Colonel Clark in Paramus, New Jersey after full 6 month service 6. He lost his discharge papers and has never been placed on any pension roster 7. Swears he is a citizen of the United States 8. As of March 18, 1818, he has not sold, devised, transferred or in any manner disposed of his property in any part in order to qualify within the provisions of the acts of Congress. He does not possess any property or income other than the following: one mare & colt $50; one cow and calf $10; some dresser & cupboard furniture $10 = $70 total; and he and an old woman age (which is his first wife). NOTE: The Act of 1818 only allowed pensions to disabled soldiers and those who had no means of support and were too old to make a living by manual labor. Later on, that changed with the Act of 1832 which gave pensions to all the soldiers of the Revolution, who served three months or more during the war. It’s not exactly true what Hugh declared in his deposition in 1823 that as of March 18, 1818 he did not own any property. Clearly he did because in Buncombe Co., NC he acquired 190 acres of land on August 23, 1819 which later in 1824 was under Sheriff control for sell off.
April 6, 1824, North Carolina: The Secretary of State for NC, William Hill, attests and affirms that Hugh Harris was a Private of the NC Continental Line. On May 20, 1776, Hugh Harris joined the “10th Regiment for 3 years.” [actually it was the 4th Regiment which was clarified in his pension file] On November 10, 1778 Hugh was promoted to Corporal and on May 20, 1779 he was discharged. This declaration became a part of Hugh’s pension file.
April 10, 1824, Washington Co., TN: Corporal Hugh Harris’ name appeared on a list of the pensioners under the Act of 1818 for Washington County and April 10, 1824 was last date of entering on the pension roll.
June 18, 1824, Washington Co., TN – Land Purchase: Warrant #10461 to Hugh Harris; purchased 50 acres at 12 and half cents per acre on the Stamp Fork of the Indian Creek (Flag Pond area of now Unicoi Co., TN) and approved / signed by the Governor on February 10, 1825. The parcel was Surveyed on August 4, 1824 by D. C. Hunter and witnessed by Richard Bell and William Harris. A year later, this same parcel of 50 acres was sold to George L. Harris on April 6, 1825. SOURCE: Tennessee. Division of Archives, Land Office, and Museum. Early Tennessee/North Carolina Land Records, 1783–1927, Record Group 50. Tennessee State Library and Archives, Nashville, Tenn.

1825, Washington Co., TN – Land Purchase: Warrant #17246 to “Hugh Harris Sr.”, 25 acres on the Stamp Fork waters of Indian Creek beginning at Benjamin Hensley's line and crossing over Greer's Fork of Indian Creek. The document outlines the survey which occurred on September 1, 1831 and approved/signed by the Governor on January 24, 1832. The Survey was performed by Robert Bean and Richard Bell (son-in-law) and Hugh Harris Jr. (son) were courtesy copied "cc". Hugh Harris’ plat was situated next to Benjamin Hensley’s property (this is present day Flag Pond near Higgins Creek and Stamp Ridge) of now Unicoi Co, TN SOURCE: Tennessee. Division of Archives, Land Office, and Museum. Early Tennessee/North Carolina Land Records, 1783–1927, Record Group 50. Tennessee State Library and Archives, Nashville, Tenn.

April 6, 1825, Washington Co., TN – Land Sale/Transfer: “Hugh Harris Sr.” sells 50 acres of land on the Stamp Fork of the Indian Creek (originally acquired from Warrant #10461) to George L. Harris. The parcel was registered with the county on August 17, 1831. NOTE: I believe this is Hugh Sr.’s son who moved up to Breathitt Co, Kentucky. Eventually George L. Harris sold this same parcel to Samuel Higgins on October 13, 1845 for $100 witnessed by William Harris. During the 1830 Census, there was a Myra Harris living next door to Hugh Sr. and Hugh Jr. with 5 children. My fell is that she was the wife of George L Harris and he left her and moved to Kentucky which explains why he was not found in the 1830 Census.

September 2, 1826, Washington Co., TN – Land Grant: Warrant #17258 to Jason Laws Harris [the son of Hugh Harris Jr.] for 50 acres of land on the Stamp Fork of Indian Creek on a side of a mountain. The document outlines the survey which occurred on May 26, 1827, and approved/signed by the Governor on January 25, 1832. I mentioned this land grant because it was entered about the same time as Hugh Harris Sr /Jr. on the Stamp Fork which is in the same area. Jason Harris was born abt 1815 and would have only been age 13 at the time of land entry. It appears his father entered under his name to hold the spot and when it was approved in 1832, Jason was 17.
November 22, 1828, Washington Co., TN - Land Grant: Warrant #17259 to Hugh Harris (not clear if it’s Jr. or Sr) receives 250 Acres of land on the Stamp Fork of Indian Creek (this is the Sams Gap area near the NC-TN border) and his land abuts to Benjamin Hensley's property. The 250 acres is in addition to his 25 acre parcel acquired via Grant #17246. The document outlines the survey and was approved/signed by the Governor on January 25, 1832. Benjamin Hensley (s/o Henry Harry Hensley and Barbara Angel) and wife Louisa Shelton’s daughter, Nancy Hensley, eventually married Jason L. Harris (s/o Hugh Harris Jr.) October 17, 1839 in Washington. Co., Tennessee. SOURCE: Tennessee. Division of Archives, Land Office, and Museum. Early Tennessee/North Carolina Land Records, 1783–1927, Record Group 50. Tennessee State Library and Archives, Nashville, Tenn.
1828, Washington Co., TN – Land Grant: Warrant #17264 to Hugh Harris Sr. receiving 50 Acres on the Stamp Fork waters of Indian Creek and crossing over Greer’s Fork [named after David Greer] of the Indian Creek. SOURCE: Tennessee. Division of Archives, Land Office, and Museum. Early Tennessee/North Carolina Land Records, 1783–1927, Record Group 50. Tennessee State Library and Archives, Nashville, Tenn.

1830 Census, Washington Co., Flag Pond area: Hugh Sr. was noted living with his aged first wife and both were indicated in the same age group 70+. He lived next door to his son Hugh Harris Jr. on one side and his son-in-law Richard Bell on the other. Below is a recap of the close neighbors and the relationships. 1830 WASHINGTON CO., TN CENSUS – Flag Pond Area – pg. 255: Below is a listing of notable families associated with Hugh Harris in order of enumeration Barbary Higgins: Males: 1=[5-10] 2=[10-15] 2=[15-20] Females 2=[5-10] 2=(10-15) 1=[15-20] 1=[30-40] Total =11 NOTE: Barbary/Barbara is the d/o Henry “Harry” Hensley and Barbara Angel. She married Holland Higgins who was murdered by David Grier on November 30, 1824. Barbara is a widow at this time taking care of 5 sons / 5 dau. She lived next door to her brother Benjamin. Her daughter, Sarah Higgins, married Hugh Bell, the son of Richard Bell. Benjamin Hensley: Males: 1=[0-5] 1=[5-10] 2=[10-15] 2=[15-20] 1=[40-50] Females: 1=[0-5] 2=[5-10] 1=[15-20] 1=[40-50] Total =12 NOTE: This is the household of Benjamin Hensley (s/o Henry Hensley and Barbara Angel) and Louisa Shelton (d/o Roderick Shelton and Sarah Ursula Briggs] in the HH are 12 people [6 sons / 4 dau]; he and Louisa are noted in 40-50 age group; s/o Henry Harry Hensley and Barbara Angel with whom Hugh Harris Sr. and Jr. became acquainted when they lived over in Buncombe; Benjamin married Louisa Shelton; his property abuts to Hugh Harris Sr.; his daughter Nancy Hensley married Hugh Harris Jr’s son, Jason L. Harris. Richard Bell: Males: 2=[15-20] 1=[40-50] Females: 1=[40-50] Total =4 NOTE: Richard Bell followed Hugh Jr. and Hugh Sr. from Buncombe Co., NC (noted in the 1810 and 1820 Buncombe Co. censuses) over to the Flag Pond area of Washington Co, TN. His wife is Mary Harris (d/o Hugh Harris Sr. and first wife). Richard Bell's son Hugh married Sarah "Sallie" Higgins, d/o Barbara Hensley-Higgins and Holland Higgins Hugh Harris Sr: 1 male [70+], 1 female [70+] Total=2 Hugh Harris, Jr.: MALES: 1=[5-10], 1=[10-15] 1=[40-50]; Females: 1=[5-10], 1=[30-40] Total =5 David MOORE: Males: 1=[20-30] Total =1 NOTE: David is the s/o William Moore and Nancy Cope Myra HARRIS: Males: 2=[0-5 ] 1=[5-10 ] Females 1=[5-10 ] 1=[10-15] 1=[30-40] Total =6 NOTE: I suspect that Myra Harris is the wife of George L. Harris who left her and the family and went up to Breathitt Co., Kentucky. John HENSLEY: Males: 1=[0-5] 1=[20-30] Females: 1=[20-30] Total =3 SOURCE: 1830; Census Place: Washington, Tennessee; Series: M19; Roll: 175; Page: 255; Family History Library Film: 0024533. Fifth Census of the United States, 1830. (NARA microfilm publication M19, 201 rolls). Records of the Bureau of the Census, Record Group 29. National Archives, Washington, D.C.
1833-1848 Veteran Pension Roster Washington Co., TN: The record showed that beginning March 1833, Hugh Harris Sr. was receiving $8 a month pension through March 1848 after which time his payments were transferred from the Knoxville, Tennessee office to the Jonesboro office for processing. SOURCE: Ledgers of Payments, 1818-1872, to U.S. Pensioners Under Acts of 1818 Through 1858 From Records of the Office of the Third Auditor of the Treasury, 1818-1872; (National Archives Microfilm Publication T718, 23 rolls); Records of the Accounting Officers of the Department of the Treasury, Record Group 217; National Archives, Washington, D.C.
June 7, 1834 Buncombe (now Yancey) Co., NC: Buncombe Co. Sheriff, Henry Grady, takes jurisdiction via a court order of selling Hugh Harris Jr. and Hugh Harris Sr. 3 jointly owned parcels (44 ac / 100 ac / 44 ac) on Bald Creek to William Wilson. Sometime in 1822, Hugh Jr. and Hugh Sr. left the state and established residence up in the Flag Pond area of Tennessee. It is unclear what happened in Buncombe Co. for the Sheriff to get involved selling off Hugh Jr. and Sr.’s lands. I suspect the Harris clan uprooted and left without paying taxes and the Sheriff seized the property.
November 5, 1834, Jonesborough, Washington Co., Tennessee: There is a recorded marriage of Hugh Harris Sr. to Elizabeth Jackson born in Virginia. Justice of Peace, William S. Ervin (Erwin area), adjudicated the marriage. NOTE: I have not been able to connect Elizabeth Jackson to any parents at this time. It’s important to consider that there were no Jackson’s living in the Flag Pond area of southern part of Washington Co. (now Unicoi) at the time they were married. So it begs the question, how did Hugh become acquainted with Elizabeth? There were many Jacksons living up in the Broylesville area where she was from. Worth noting is that Hugh Bell (s/o Richard Bell and Mary Harris; the grandson of Hugh Harris Sr. and first wife) married a month before Hugh Sr. on October 21, 1834 to Sarah Higgins (d/o Holland Higgins and Barbara Hensley) also performed by William S. Ervin (Erwin area) and also moved to the Broylesville area. SOURCE: Tenn State Marriages, 1780-2002. Nashville, TN, USA: Tenn State Library and Archives. Microfilm.

1838 Washington Co. Tax Poll: District 7 pg. 168 (alpha order) Hugh “Hares” is listed but no land declaration. Only a male declaration with a tax rate of 12.5. Richard Bell is also listed with 65 acres @ 3.14 tax declaration.
November 13, 1839, Washington Co., TN – Land Transfer: Hugh Harris Sr. signs over 50 acres of land split off from his parcel to his daughter Mary Harris-Bell (b. 1785) wife of Richard Bell. This parcel is adjacent to Benjamin and Louisa Shelton-Hensley’s (s/o Henry Harry Hensley and Barbara Angel of Bee Log, Yancey Co., NC) land. The property is located on the South Indian Creek in the Sam’s Gap / Flag Pond area of now Unicoi Co. Tennessee.
1840 Census, 6th Regiment, Washington Co., TN: On page 233 of the federal census, Hugh Harris is noted in the (80-90) group and also "age 84" as a Revolutionary Pensioner and working in Agriculture. He is listed with wife (70-80) and the two of them living in the Ernestville area just north of Clear Branch of now Unicoi County Co., TN. NOTE: Hugh’s wife (1st or 2nd) poses a mystery because this wife was in the 70-80 age range which makes me believe it is his first wife because 2nd wife, Elizabeth Jackson, was born in 1780 and she would have been in the age 60 group. It could be a mistake by the census taker. Enumerated living next to Hugh and wife are Pheleg D. Tilson (20-30) and family on one side; James Thompkins (50-60) and family on the other. On the preceding page 11 of the census, which captures the Flag Pond / Sams Gap area, are his son Hugh Harris (50-60) and family; next door to him is Jason L. Harris who just got married to Nancy Hensley; next door to Jason is Hugh Harris Jr. (20-30) living alone; next door to Hugh Jr is William S. Hensley (30-40) and family. William S. Hensley; brother-in-law of Jason L. Harris and the s/o Benjamin Hensley and Louisa Shelton. The Richard Bell Clan left the Flag Pond area during this census and moved up to the Broylesville area. 1840 WASHINGTON CO., TN - Page 12 (in order/ this is the Ernestville area): Hugh Harris: 1 male [80-90]; 1 Female [70-80] --- on page two, he is noted as age "84" NOTE: Hugh SR. and first wife? (based on age group) even though he married Elizabeth Jackson in 1834. Based on the census location, appears he is still living in the southern part of Washington Co., TN. Elizabeth Jackson is from the Broylesville area where there were other Jackson families noted. 1840 WASHINGTON CO., TN - Page 11 (in order / this is the Flag Pond area): Hugh Harris: 1 male [5-10] 1 male [50-60]; 1 female [15-20] 1 female [40-50] NOTE: S/o Hugh Harris Sr. who is noted on previous page of census several doors away Jason Harris: 1 male [20-30]; 1 female [15-20] NOTE: Next door is Hugh Harris’ son, Jason Laws Harris who just got married to Nancy Hensley (d/o Benjamin Hensley and Louisa); living next door to his father Hugh Harris) Hugh Harris Jr.: 1 male [20-30] NOTE: Next door - Hugh Jr. living alone – s/o Hugh Harris born 1790 SOURCE: Year: 1840; Census Place: Washington, Tennessee; Roll: 535; Page: 233; Image: 1357; Family History Library Film: 0024549. Sixth Census of the United States, 1840. (NARA microfilm publication M704, 580 rolls). Records of the Bureau of the Census, Record Group 29. National Archives, Washington, D.C.
1840/1841 Census of Pensioners for Revolutionary / Military Service: Hugh Harris Sr. declares himself “age 84” (thus born 1756) and living in “Washington Co., Eastern, TN.” No district noted so we do not know if he moved up north to the Broylesville area of Washington Co., TN yet.
October 14, 1847 – Letter to the Pension Board: Hugh Harris appeals to the Pension Board to have his pension checks issued out of the Jonesborough Agency rather than Knoxville. He explains he lives 11 miles from the Jonesborough office. His checks were getting lost or returned by the Knoxville office. It appears Hugh Harris actually signs his name in the pre-written document prepared by William P. Reeves, JP. John Blair, Esq. also added an addendum to the request as a witness to Hugh’s complaint about the voucher getting lost by the Knoxville office.
1850 Census - 4th Sub div. East Dist, Washington Co., TN: Hugh Harris Sr. moves up north to the Broylesville / Limestone area of Washington Co., TN to join back up with his daughter Richard and Mary Harris-Bell family. Hugh lived next door to Charles Foster (age 42) and family; one door down from Joseph Franks (age 42) and wife; two doors down from the Bells. *HH #1469 Hugh Harris age 92 “do” Born VA Elizabeth Harris age 71 Born VA cannot read /write** NOTE: The occupation was “do” which would reference/repeat the preceding trade from the prior head of HH which was “Blacksmith” which means Hugh may have been a blacksmith which was a valuable trade. HH #1472 Richard Bell age 64 Farmer Born NC $150 - cannot read /write* Mary Bell age 65 Born NC cannot read /write Richard Bell age 13 Born Tenn attending school NOTE: Richard Bell/Mary Harris moved to this area in 1840. Lives next door to his son Hugh and one door down from widowed daughter-in-law Eliza. HH #1473 Hugh H. Bell age 36 Carpenter Born NC - cannot read /write Sarah age 34 Born NC cannot read /write James T. age 13 Born Tenn attending school Mary age 12 Born Tenn attending school George W. age 9 Born Tenn attending school William M. age 8 Born Tenn attending school Barbary E. age 5 Born Tenn attending school Margaret age 1 Born Tenn NOTE: Hugh H. Bell (s/o Richard Bell and Mary Harris) and wife Sarah Higgins-Bell have a house full of children. HH #1474 Eliza J. Bell age 35 Born Tenn - cannot read /write Aletha J. age 12 Born Tenn Mary E. age 5 SOURCE: 1850 Federal Census Place: Subdivision 4, Washington, Tennessee; Roll: M432_898; Page: 208A; Image: 422. Seventh Census of the United States, 1850; (National Archives Microfilm Publication M432, 1009 rolls); Records of the Bureau of the Census, Record Group 29; National Archives, Washington, D.C.
October 5, 1853 – Will filed in Washington Co., TN: The Will #P-453 of Hugh Harris states that after the payment of his funeral and debts, he bequeaths all his property of every sort to Elizabeth “for her kindness to me in my old days.” Jacob F. Broyles (wealthy landowner of the township) was his Executor of his Will. The Will was Attested by Jacob F. Broyles and Sarah Foster; Sarah Foster was the witness at the March Term 1855 in Washington Co. TN. SOURCES: Wills 1779-1889; Index, 1779-1889; Author: Tennessee County Court (Washington County); Probate Place: Washington, Tennessee. Washington County Will Books, 1779-1860; Estate Records, 1779-1860; Author: Historical Records Project (Tennessee); Probate Place: Washington, Tennessee. Probate Records, 1778-1950; Author: Tennessee County Court (Washington County); Probate Place: Washington, Tennessee.

February 13, 1855 – Jonesborough, TN: The death of Hugh Harris. According to an Affidavit for Widow’s Pension dated March 5, 1855 and May 20, 1855, Elizabeth (nee Jackson) Harris attests to the Pension Board that her husband died “at home on February 13, 1855.” Hugh Harris is buried at the New Salem Church Cemetery, Limestone, Washington Co., TN.
March 5, 1855 – Jonesborough, TN: Elizabeth (nee Jackson) Harris applies for a widow’s pension stating that she married Hugh HARRIS on 5 Nov 1834 in Washington County, Tennessee. She was age 75 (thus born abt. 1780) at the time of her application. The file includes a license for the marriage of Hugh Harris and Elizabeth Jackson and a return for the marriage performed by William S. Erwin, Justice of the Peace. (Extracted from Pension File W25743).
May 5, 1855 – Obituary “Hartford Weekly Times”: Hugh Harris’ death notice was published in the "Hartford Weekly Times" on Saturday May 5, 1855, page 3, as being "in the 110th year of his age". According to the "The Charles R. Hale Collection of Connecticut, Cemetery Inscriptions" housed at the Connecticut State Library, it recorded Hugh as being “born 1746 and died February 13, 1855 in Jonesboro, Tennessee at age 109.”

May 29, 1855: Widow, Elizabeth (Jackson) Harris, age 75, applies for 160 acres of bounty land as the widow of Rev War Soldier Corporal Hugh Harris.
June 5, 1855: John Blair, Esq. writes a letter on behalf of widow Elizabeth (nee Jackson) Harris to Judge L.P. Walds to review the application for 106 acres of bounty land.
September 5, 1856: Widow Elizabeth (nee Jackson) Harris, writes to the Pension Board to re-review the Annual Amount of Pension. He was receiving $96 per year and she want to know (1) if he was entitled to an increase and (2) can she receive the different in the assessment.
1860 Census, Broylesville District, Washington Co., TN: Elizabeth (Jackson) Harris is living alone and next door to her step daughter Mary Harris Bell who is also a widow living alone. Richard Bell died on March 1860 at age 72 from “Dropsy” and listed on the 1860 Mortality Schedule, Washington Co., TN District 1. HH #4: Hugh Bell / age 46 / Born NC Note: Living next door to Mary Harris-Bell is her son Hugh Bell and Sarah Higgins (age 44 – born NC) HH #5: Mary Bell / age 79 / 250 personal value / Born NC Note: Mary Harris, the widow of Richard Bell and d/o Hugh Harris Sr. and first wife; living alone –unable to read or write. According to the US Federal Mortality Schedule of 1850 – 1885; Richard Bell (husband) born in NC, died at age 73 in March 1860 from Dropsy, District 1, Washington Co. HH #6: Elizabeth Harris / age 86 / 300 personal value / Born VA Note: Elizabeth Jackson, the widow of Rev. War Veteran Hugh Harris Sr. and living alone – unable to read or write. SOURCE: Year: 1860; Census Place: District 1, Washington, Tennessee; Roll: M653_1277; Page: 131; Image: 269; Family History Library Film: 805277. 1860 U.S. census, population schedule. NARA microfilm publication M653, 1,438 rolls. Washington, D.C.: National Archives and Records Administration.

September 15, 1866 - Jonesborough, Washington Co., TN: Widow Elizabeth (nee Jackson) Harris (age 90) applied for a restoration of her pension which had been suspended during the Civil War, during which time she had subsisted “solely from gratuitous contributions of friends.”
February 15, 1867 - Jonesborough, Washington Co., TN: Widow Elizabeth (Jackson) Harris declared herself “about 90” (placing her birth year 1777) and re-applied for a restoration of her pension which was suspended during the Civil War. Her original application was never received at the Jonesborough office as indicated on the document. Her last check was March 4, 1861.
March 28, 1867 - Jonesborough, Washington Co., TN: The widow’s pension for Elizabeth (nee Jackson) Harris was reinstated at the rate of $96/year and prorated back to March 4, 1861. Payments were sent to Post Office Box 921, Jonesboro.
1868 - Jonesborough, Washington Co., TN: Elizabeth (nee Jackson) Harris died and is buried next to her husband at the New Salem Cemetery, Washington Co., TN. BURIAL

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