Francis Taylor Diary

20[305] DIARY OF FRANCIS TAYLOR,1796, 1796, September, 10, Fog in morn, fair day and warm. J.Taylor sent Grandison & got basket peaches & a Midling 15 lb Bacon, to send to J.Pendleton's. Ben Jenkins & one Murphy were here, Murphy wants Overseer's place. The Bohon paid me 41/- & had 45 lb Bacon 1/-. Phil Barbour sent Lucy & got 2 p/s Bacon 18 lb. Had Apples gathered from the Leather Coat & White apple trees down the hill- About 1/2 Bus' of same kinds in New Orchard gathered the 23d- Left the Ralls Jennetts. Had the Oats (Cocks) Stacked. 11, Fair and warm. I rode to Court house,excpted Mr O'Neil was to preach there but he preached at the Church where I proceeded and came home to dinner. I walked to C.Taylor's in evening---[SUNDAY]--12, Warm fair weather. Began to pull Fodder. Let Macon Biggers have Upper & Soal Leather to make him a paid Shoes- He car'd to Merritt to have made. 13, Fair morn, distant thunder & clouds in evening. Maj'r William Moore paid me $10. which I lent last April when J.Moore went to Kentucky. Maj'r Moore, J.Taylor,J.Taylor jr & C.Taylor dined here. Also ___Graves from Madison,who came for Licence,and a son of Wm Collins. I told Maj'r Moore he might have 10 Bus Corn(for same quantity of Rye) to send to Mill. 14, Warm & fair morn, heavy shower & thunder in evening. Th's Bohon was here & got 20 lb Wool-to pay for soon. Maj'r Moore's boy got 2 1/2 Bus Corn. Sent Frank & got 3 Bus Salt of A Shepherd jr. Frank brought a Hata from Mr. Shepherd's- I suppose made by Pearson 15, Thursday, some clouds- fair at night. J.Taylor & J.Taylor jr came by- I went with them to the funeral of Ja's Leathers at his father's John Leathers's- A sermon was preached by Geo Morris- When we returned I went to J.Taylor's & dined. 16, Very fair & a little cooler. I walked to Court house,met J.Taylor at his field who also walked to do. he told me his son James & wife, Nancy Taylor & Aunt Thomas went for Culpeper this morning. I paid A Shepherd jr 20/3 for 3 Bushels Salt Frank got the 14th instant. Got Newspapers & ret'd to dinner. 17, Some flying clouds & drops of rain,Evening cool & clear. J.Taylor wrote me he was going to dine at Aunt Taylor's, I walked there- J.Taylor & family, James Bell & G.C.Taylor dined there, also E Chew who came to J.Taylor's at night. G.C.Taylor got to C.Taylor's this morning on his return from Philadelphia. I returned by J.Taylor's, T.Barbour & John Moore there. Finished pulling corn blades. 18, [SUNDAY] Cool, clear & windy. Reu Taylor called here, went to J.Taylor's to dinner. Th's Barbour jr & sons & John Moore & E.Chew & C.Bell there. J.Taylor borrowed a Case Bottle Whisky, returned the 28, Brandy for 2 Bottles lent him. 19, Cool & Clear, mild evening. Had a Shoat killed- a fore quarter gave M.Biggers. Gab'l Barbour sent by Negro George for 3 p/s Bacon- I sent 2 shoulders 25 lbs & Gammon 13 lb, total 38 lb. G.C.Taylor was her early- I proposed to him to settle his account with the Estate of G.Taylor dec'd But he declined it at present and made some claims which I think he has not right to- he promised to write more fully on the matter &c. J.Taylor,.Taylor,Reu Taylor, G.C.Taylor, C.P.Howard, James Bell & Charles Bell dined here. I offered G.C.Taylor 4150. for Sary & children, he refused to take less than $180. 20, Sunshine all day, pale & hazy. I went to C.Taylor's to Breakfast. J.Taylor & G.C.Taylor were there- the latter set out on his return home. I desired him Get me Salt Petre 4 lb, Gupowder 2 lb- and 2 Iron Backs,3ft 8in- Came home 10 o'clock. Maj'r Moore's Lawrence got 1/2 Barrel Corn (2d turn) 21, Fair, moderate. I staid home. Stephen Fox came here & looked at a Sow w'ch I asked 5 dollars for- he did not buy any. 22, Hazy & clouds. cleared cool in evening. I was at home. 23, Slight Frost, fiar pleasant day, evening cool.J.Taylor came here before noon- I walked with him to Co't house,got Newspapers. He told me he shall send tomorrow to Maj'r Daniels' for Brandy & will let a Cask of mine go with his- I sent a Cask (about 16 Gallons) to his house in evening- I dined at home.

From the TAYLOR DIARY, #1907-z in the Southern Historical Collection, University of North Carolina Library, Chapel Hill. FOR REFERENCE ONLY: PERMISSION TO PUBLISH MUST BE REQUESTED. WARNING: MOST MANUSCRIPTS ARE PROTECTED BY COPYRIGHT.

23[308} DIARY OF FRANCIS TAYLOR,1796, 1796, October, 21, Foggy morn, cloudy day. After breakfast Maj'r Lindsay & Doct'r Morrow set out to go to Mr Harry Taliaferro's, Culpeper. I walked to Court house, got Newspapers & returned about 10 o'clock. I paid A Shepherd Sen'r 9d for bringing iron Oven from Blair's. Paid C.Bell 5/- for l lb powder he bo't in Rockingham (see 13th) 22, Fair and warm. I staid at home. Reu Taylor returned 7 Bus Wheat, I lent, 23, [SUNDAY] Foggy morn, warm fair day. I went to Church & ret'd to dinner. Mr ONeil preached. 24, Took out Hhd Corn (the 19th) and put in old house and removed the old corn into old house. Fair and very warm. Killed a Wether & sent a Side 23 lb to Th's Bell p/r note. I went to Court. Received 200 dollars in part of Daniel Triplett's debt for Wheat. He to pay the bal'ce next Court. I confirmed an agreement made formerly to buy my present crop of Wheat- He to give me 9/- certain and if it rises to more than 10/- p/r bushel in Fredericksbug I am to have within 1/- or said price to the time payment is made- One half the money to be paid on or before the 1, April 1797, the other half by 1, Oct'r 1797. If I get goods, they are to be deducted out of the paym'ts as they respectively become due- W.Bowling paid 1/3, a balance due for Wool. I let Macon Biggers have two dollar Gave Capt P Merry Letters for Richard, Wm & Ben Taylor. [All in Ky- WKA] 25, Fair and very warm. Sent a side mutton 23 lb to G.Barbour by George. C.Taylor sent John & got a Gammon & Midling, 30 lb bacon. I walked to Court house. No Court for want of Magistrates. I dined at G.Barbour's. Col J.Barbour, Doct'r Barbour, Reuben Taylor, dined there. Had 2 Hhds Corn gathered in Barn field- one of the old Cart Wheels broke to pieces, bringing up the Corn. 26, Fair, warm & smoky. M. Biggers finished covering Nanny's house with slabs. I walked in evening to C.Taylor's- Caty Nooe came home with Sally Taylor from T.Bell' they left Betsy & B.Burnley there. 27, Thursday, Fair, warm and smoky. Digging Irish potatoes, about 30 or 40 bushels M.Biggers making axle tree for New Cart wheels. I settled my account with Macon Biggers and paid him the balance due $3.3.4. in full to this time. 28, A little cooler- cloudy morn, fair evening. R.Bell sent & got 1/2 Bus Salt for J.Taylor- An Ox died in Cart yesterday. I went to Dan'l Triplett's- Got him to sign agreement for Wheat. I bought Cloth for Negroes & Sundries to amount of $15.6.9. I returned home to dinner about 3 o'clock. 29, Smoky, moderate- some thin clouds. Had 25 Hogs put in pen to fatten. M.Biggers, Roger Bell, J.Taylor & my negroes worked on the road- I was with them towards Mrs Burnley's. I sent Frank to Mr.Shepherd's & got the goods bo't yesterday. 30, A little frost- Smoky, mild. Reu Taylor walked here- I went with him to Aunt Taylor's. Rob't Taylor & family, J.Taylor, J.Taylor jr & wife, Sally & Polly Taylor dined there. -------[SUNDAY]----30, A little frost- Smoky, mild, rain- cooler in evening & misty. Sent Jim to assist Mrs Day to build a house. Had wether killed- A hind Qr gave M.Biggers. The weather Remarkably mild in October. Nothing in Garden frosted.

November, 1, Tuesday, Last Night very windy, clear cool day. Sent Jim again to assist about Mrs Day's house. I walked to Court house- The Militia Officers on Court martial I bought a pr Steelyards, Almanac & pack cards of Jenkins &c. J.Taylor & I returned together- Met Abner Gaines & Wiliam Pollock Jr- Witnessed a bond from W.P to Legatees of James Gaines dec'd to pay for land when deeds made &c 2, Sharp Frost- the first that hit herbs in my garden, fair mild. C.Taylor sent a note that Mr Dade invited me to dinner. Also for a few pounds butter- I sent 5 lb. Began to gather corn by Drake's branch. I went to Mr. Dade's, his daughter was Christened, a large Company, mostly young people. I got home at dark. 3, Frost and ice, fair, moderate,smoky. J.Taylor came here to Breakfast- I went with him to Mr.D.Triplett's store. He bought sundries which were charged to my account to amount $6.11.0, which he promised to pay for next Court. I got for my own use sundries $5.18.4 3/4.Jas Bell was at Triplett's store, he returned with us- we stopped a while at G.Barbour's- I got home to dinner at 3 o'clock- 2 Hhds Corn put in Old house this evening. I delivered 9 pair shoes to Negroes.

From the TAYLOR DIARY, #1907-z in the Southern Hisotorical Collection, University of North Carolina Library, Chapel Hill. FOR REFERENCE ONLY: PERMISSION TO PUBLISH MUST BE REQUESTED. WARNING: MOST MANUSRIPTS ARE PROTECTED BY COPYRIGHT.

24[309] DIARY OF FRANCIS TAYLOR,1796, 1796, November, 4, Slight frost, smoky, mild. J.Taylor sent me a piece of beef- I sent him two plates butter. Mrs Stewart & Mrs Biggers came here to breakfast. They cut out Coats and Breeches for 6 Negro men. I p'd Mrs Stewart for do. 4/6. Reuben Taylor & Richard Taylor jr came here before noon- I was invited to J.Taylor's- they went with me and dined there. C.P.Howard was there. R'd Taylor was unwell in evening. 5, Smoky, dry, moderate weather. I gave R'd Taylor jr a letter to Ben Taylor with my father's and Brother John's wills enclosed- He set out after Breakfast on his return to Kentucky intending to John Pendleton's to day. he said it did not suit him to stay longer as a Waggon with goods for his father was gone on to Winchester: He was tolerable well today. Mrs Gilden & daughter brought home 5 pr Stockings.I rode to Mrs Bell's- J.Taylor, J.Taylor jr & wife, Nancy Taylor, C.Taylor, Sally & Betsy Taylor & C.P.Howard, Mr Gambell and wife & their own family dined there. 6, Sunday, Smoky dry weather, moderate. I went to J.Taylor's- E.Chew came there fro C.Taylor's. Sally and Betsy Taylor also, we dined there, all the family at home. 7, Smart frost- dry,smoky. Run part of my wheat thro' the fan. had 9 bushels cleaned of threshed Wheat brought in for family use. J.Taylor sent Harry in evening & Davy went there to make shoes. I rode to Court house to Election for Elector of President &c. W.Madison got about 90 votes. Gave Col J.Madison jr a plat of my Military Land for 1,000 acres N.West of Ohio. Also 2 plats of Reuben Taylor's for 1,000 acres each, and requested him to get grants if any office at Philadelphia. 8, Tuesday, Sharp dry frost- smoky & cloudy. The widow Day came here to ask Hel to build a house. I walked to J.Taylor's- Mr Gambell, James Bell, C.Taylor and E.Chew dined there. Finished cleaning wheat. 9, Smoky, dry. Sunshine dim, not so cool as yesterday. Had a young steer killed- Macon Biggers had a hind quarter 73 lb in part of his next years provision. Gathered some corn in pasture field,that might get stalks convenient for cattle &c. Reuben Taylor came here in evening- I gave him $4.11.6. silver for a Doublcon. 10. Very smoky,dry, warm and sunshine very dull. I went to C.Taylor's, he was at home, but went to Aunt Taylor's to bleed the widow Madison, and when returned went to see a sick negro at T.Barbour jr's. I heard that Mrs Gambell was unwell- Mr Gambell &c proposed didning at C.Taylor's to day when I was at J.Taylor's- The Girls were gone to Goulier's dance at Court house. M.Fall dined at C.Taylor's. 11, Smoky, dry, warm & some clouds. J.Taylor,C.Taylor, J.Taylor jr, Reu Taylor, C.P. Howard & Chas Bell dined here. Mr Gambell & Jas Bell promised but did not come. Jos Clark's Waggon brought me Bus Oysters. 12, Saturday, Smoky dry weather, continues mild. Edmund Taylor[jr. nephew of diarist-WKA] got here to dinner, returning from Norfolk, says he left F.S.Taylor well. 13, Smoky with clouds, no rain. Edm'd Taylor & I went to Church- Mr O'Neil preached Miss Richards' funeral sermon. But few people there. E.Taylor & self came to Maj'r Moore's to dinner. Reuben Taylor & family, Ja Taylor jr & wife, were there. J.Taylor was here in evening a short time, Gibson & Nat, w'th him. 14, Smoky, cloudy & damp. Edmund Taylor set out after Breakfast on his return to Col Thruston's in Frederick- Said he was undetermined if he shou'd stay there or go on to Kentucky- I rode to Court house- The Sheriffs met to make return who is Elector of this district. Wm Madison had 66 votes more than Lewis Corner. I carried 3 1/2 yds Coating to T.Doolin's & had my measure taken for a coat- all the trimmings but for Sleeve lining & pockets. I got 27 lb Sugar of Mr. Jenkins for which I paid 31/6 also paid 3/10 1/2 a balance I owed before. Got 1 1/4 yds flannel & 1/4 yd Velvet at Barbour's for Coats &c

From the TAYLOR DIARY, #1907-z in the Southern Historical Collection, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill. FOR REFERENCE ONLY: PERMISSION TO PUBLISH MUST BE REQUESTED. WARNING: MOST MANUSCRIPTS ARE PROTECTED BY COPYRIGHT.

25[310] DIARY OF FRANCIS TAYLOR,1796, 1796, November, 15, Some drops rain about day- Cloudy,smoky & warm. M.Biggers cut 4 Shoats yesterday & Spayed 5 today. Sent Frank with sleeve lining & hank silk to Doolin's and to Mr. Shepherd's for Dutch Oven,sent from Blair's. J.Taylor was here in evening. A Darby got Licence to day. 16, Wednesday, Smoke went off- North wind, clear and cooler. Macon Biggers found a little Wheat in Straw Stack, supposed hid by Old Peter. Also some in bag in Jim's room, suppose stolen by him. C.Taylor came to see Sary's young child(sick) he dined here. I walked with him in evening to J.Taylor's. 17, Sharpest frost this Fall- conitnues dry- wind South. I went to J.Taylor's- T.Barbour jr got there last night fr'm Fred'g. but was gone home before I went. I dined there, Jno.Nooe dc. Finished gathering corn & got all to stacks. 18, Very warm for the season.I met Reu Taylor at my gate, I walked & went to Court house with him- He dined with me as he returned. I carried 3 1/2 yds Drab Cloth &c to T.Doolin to get a Great Coat made. Got my close bodied Coat- very little of 3 1/2 yds left. I sent in morning and got a Sack Salt from T.Barbour's waggon at J.Taylor's. 19, Very little frost, fair, warm and smoky in evening. I took a purge- Saw Reu Taylor going to D.Triplett's, he got 5 hanks silk for me, called on his return & dined with me. 20, [SUNDAY] Smoky, warm, clouds and some drops of rain. I walked to J.Taylor's in evening- James Thomas (Culp'r) there. 21, Smoky, warm, dry. Mrs Gilden sent home 2 pair more Stockigns, making in all 7 pair- 5 was brought the 5th instant. I walked to Court house- got 1 yard Linen & 1/2 yd Jeans for my great coat & delivered to Doolin. Also got 1 1/2 yds cloth & 1/4 Tea, the whole from Barbour's store. Rec'd a letter from G.C.Taylor-informing that a waggon wou'd come off the 18th, past for his negroes &c. 22, Very warm,some drops of rain in day & shower in night & cool- Had 16 Hhds Corn put in New House. C.Taylor came here to breakfast, talked with him ab't having G.C.Taylor's fixed to get out when the Waggon comes for them &c. I was sent for & went to J.Taylor's- Aunt Taylor, Mr & Mrs Howard, Sally Burnley, C.Taylor & Reu Taylor & E.Chew dined there. J.Taylor got home in evening from Culpeper Court. 23, After the rain in night,clear & cold, sharp frost, fair. Had 14 Hhds corn put in new house. I went with C,Taylor in his carriage and purchased sundry articles for Cloathing G.C.Taylor's Salves, also a few things for myself- C.Taylor & I dined at D.Triplett's we got home after sunset-cool evening. G.C.Taylor's Jim went off this morning tho' forbid. I wrote to John Pendleton(from Triplett's) to send Will over. Had Cabbages taken up & set in trenches. I fear too dry. 24, Very sharp frost and cold-flying clouds. Gave the wroking people(except Jim) Stockings. After dinner I walked to J.Taylor's- Mrs Burnley & family & Mrs James were there. Col Barbour's wife came there about sunset. Had 6 Hhds Corn put in New house,making 36 Hhds put into New Corn House- M.Biggers kept 16 Hhds & put in his house and said he has used 6 1/2 Bus' _____Hhds has been put into Old Corn House & chiefly fed to Hogs & horses- The above made in Barn field, total _____. 25, Severe frost, cloudy and cold day. I walked to Doolin's, got my Great Coat- walked to Court house- got a few articles at Store. The posr did not arrive- J.Taylor & C.Taylor were at Store. We staid late expecting the post. 26, Clouds & spits snow last night. Extreme cold and clear day. J.Taylor jr, John Moore & Rob't Moore walked here from Maj'r Moore's, dined and staid till night with me. 27, Sharp cold continues, fiar morn, cloudy evening. I walked to C.Taylor's, Miss Sally Miller & Allan Nassey dined there. J.Taylor there in evening. -[SUNDAY]28, Continues cold but milder than before. Snowed a little. I went to Court, paid Jos Clark 6/- for Oysters rec'd the 11th. Gave Wm Tomlinson a letter for nephew *Wm Taylor of Kentucky. Rec'd no money. -[* son of Jonathan, in Ky prospecting--WKA]

From the TAYLOR DIARY, #1907-z in the South Historical Collection, University of North Carolina Library, Chapel Hill. FOR REFERENCE ONLY: PERMISSION TO PUBLISH MUST BE REQUESTED. WARNING: MOST MANUSCRIPTS ARE PROTECTED BY COPYRIGHT.

26[311] DIARY OF FRANCIS TAYLOR,1796, 1796, November, 29, Tuesday, Fair,dry and milder than since the 23rd. I rode to Court house- Bought & paid for 1 qr paper. Tho's Bell paid me 35/8 for my account of mutton & butter he had some time ago. Court adjourned till tomorrow. Mr John Henshawa promised to carry home myBoots and have the shoes taken off and another pair larger put on. 30, Great white frost, weather clear & moderate. I sent two Bags of Corn & had ground at Dade's Mill. I went to C.Taylor's, carried Cloth &c to make 2 vests and 2 pair Breeches- I dined there with the family, Sally Burnley & Sally Miller. Davy took sick last night, continues unwell. Finished Husking Corn. The weather this month through has been very dry and moderate till the 23rd. since, very sharp, there has been no snow to show on the earth an hour.

December, 1, Thursday, A moist snow fell last night about an inch deep- a little today: Cloudy and thick all day. G.C.Taylor's Will got here this morning- he brought a letter from J.Pendleton dated 30,November. J Bowie Pendleton came here early in morning and asked if G.C.Taylor wou'd sell Will- I expect not but have no power on that score- He ret'd before breakfast. 2, Flying clouds, spits of snow, mild morn, cool evening. Had ___Hhds Corn put into new house,made in the pasture field___Hhds had been put in before,making in the whole ___Hhds. 13 Hhds have been measured for feeding Hogs and other Stock. Put ___Hhds into old Corn House. Sent 3 Bus'Wheat to Dade's mill of what I had in the house. Rec'd a letter from F.S.Taylor. Rec'd a letter from G.C.Taylor(by the Waggon that has come for his Slaves) directing me to send 400 dollars by the Waggoner. 3, Smart frost but not colder than usual for season. Finished measuring Corn 40 Hhds made in home field, 66 in Barn field 106, or1272 Bus. M.B. had sent to Mill 6 1/2 in all crop 1278 1/2 Bus. is 1/7, 182 1/2, or 36 1/2 Barl's take out 6 1/2 Bus he used & add 40 allowed for 1797 & bal'ce will be 216 Bus or 18 Hhds. he has got 16 Hhds. I walked to C.Taylor's to Breakfast. He and I concluded that the Waggon may start early on Monday next with G.C.Taylor's Slaves. When I got home sent Frank to D.Triplett's for 3 yds plaid to make socks for negro children, also 2 Blankets for G.C.Taylor's negroes. C.Taylor advised me to get the above- I sent two Blankets(sorry) & Frank brought 2 in place with the above- Mr Triplett wrote me that he had no money,but expected some in a day or two by Mr Richards- I wrote to J.Taylor jr that I wanted payment for the horse he bought- I went to Court house where I saw him at Shepherd's store, he borrowed $35 of Doct'r Shepherd & paid it to me; being the sum he owed for the horse I sold him. J.Taylor was at Store, I walked back with him by his house- dined there- C.P.Howard & J.Bowie Pendleton & his own family were there. 4, [SUNDAY] Fair,moderately cold. I went to Court house- Mr O'Neill preached- I came to J.Taylor's- Reu Taylor- Doct Barbour, Phil Barbour(of Ambrose), Wm Moore,Rob't Moore, Sally & Betsy Taylor & J.B.Pendleton dined there. I went by C.Taylor's to know about Waggon of G.C.Taylor's starting- Mrs Conway & daughter there. 5, Monday, Fair moderate. Charles Taylor and Jeremiah Stone came here to breakfast I paid $120. to Stone for G.C.Taylor, as he directed in his letter, in part for Sary &c- Cold $43.18.11, Silver $76.1.1. I also sent to Chs Taylor's for G.C.Taylor, 6 Bush Corn, 2 1/2 Bus Meal, 42 lb Bacon & 2 good bags, provisions for his Slaves. I rec'd from G.C.Taylor 10 lb Saltpetre, 2 lb Powder, 3 lb Shot- C.Taylor to have 3 lb Saltpetre & 1/2 lb powder. Took Stone's rec't for the above money &c. 6, Rained moderately before noon- changed cool in evening- Geo Leathers made complaint of little Peter's striking & abusing him last night. I let him whip L.Peter.Had 18 Hogs killed. Let Macon Biggers have 4 weight:125-115-88-85=413 Nett, part of what I allowed him. I kept 14, weights: 170-163-152-144-125-120-120--120-115= 1109, 94-93-89-87-86-86= 1644 Nt.

From the TAYLOR DIARY, #1907-z in the Southern Historical Collection, University of North Carolina Library, Chapel Hill. FOR REFERENCE ONLY: PERMISSION TO PUBLISH MUST BE REQUESTED. WARNING: MOST MANUSCRIPTS ARE PROTECTED BY COPYRIGHT.

27[312] DIARY OF FRANCIS TAYLOR,1796, 1796, December, 6, [CONTINUED] Jer Stone Set out about 10 o'clock from Charles Taylor's with his Waggon and G.C.Taylor's Slaves- I sent over a letter for him to carry,mentioning money paid in part payment for Sary & her children:Frank, Him (Boy Jim born about Sept'r 5,1790), and John. their price 550 dollars, sent 400. Mrs Day's son & daughter were here to ask when I wou'd help to build a house for their mother. G.C.Taylor's Jim left off work 23 last month, see that date. Dec'r 20, M.Biggers had 1 hog, Nt 74, making with above 487 lb Nt. 7, Cold, cloudy & windy. I had 14 hogs-(Killed yesterday) Cut up & salted. Sent J.Taylor's Cart and Moses and got Bedsteads made by Shannon. M.Biggers had 1/2 Bus Salt-part of 1 1/2 allowance for 1797. Had Gut Fat Refined. 8, Clear and not severe,but sharp frost. Had leaf fat refined. I went to Doolins, he altered the cuffs of a coat. I went onto Court house, returned a piece German gold 6pw. 5 gr(J.Taylor jr got of Doct'r Shepherd & paid me) to Doct'r Shepherd & received Silver for it- I bought a few trifles- Reuben Taylor was at Store- I got back to dinner. My Mare has the scratches,which makes her lame Sent J.Taylor 2 lb Saltpetre by Charles. 9, Froze hard- great white frost- fair. Macon had 2 Hhds Corn out of the Corn house, which with 16 he kept at home & 6 1/2 Bus he had sent to Mill, was the whole of his share & 8 Barl's for next year's provision. I carried back of Jacket & silk & buttons to C.Taylor's, he was from home. I returned to dinner and walked in evening to J.Taylor's- Wilson Coleman was there. 10, Great white frost- Some clouds, not very cold. I staid at home. 11, [SUNDAY] Milder than some time past-tho' frosty. I walked to J.Taylor's- he, J.Taylor jr & wife, were gone to Maj'r Moore's, who they heard was unwell- I dined at J.T's with the rest of the family & E Chew. I was very unwell after noon. 12, Some frost- moderate and clear. I took a dose of Castor oil last night- am better today. Reu Taylor was here before noon, got 2 lb Saltpetre. Bro'r James's wife sent word that Mr & Mrs Gambell were there, and ask me over. I went. Bro' James was from home but got back to dinner. 13, Clear night, white frost, cloudy morning.Snowed a little and afterwards rained very moderately. 14, Soft, low clouds, but nothing fell. J.Taylor, C.P.Howard & Gabriel Barbour dined here. 15, A little frost- mild and clear. I walked by J.Taylor's to Aunt Taylor's- J.Taylor, J.Taylor jr & wife, Nancy Taylor,C.Taylor, Mr Gambel & wife, Milly Bell, Mrs Burnley & 2 young daughters, Gabriel Barbour and Tho's Jenkins dined there Anthony Buck got licence to marry Polly Shepherd. 16, Friday, Scattering Clouds & some (little) snow. mild. M.Biggers mended the Chimney &c of the house where Sary lives- he Dined here. 17, Some clouds in morn- fair evening-mild. Sally Taylor Sent home a pair Breeche (made for me) yesterday & a vest today. C.Taylor sent & got 1/2 lb powder G.C.T. sent down. I had the headach severely this evening and night. 18, Rained in night, thick soft day [SUNDAY], I am unwell, slept but little last night. Mr William Davies of Rockingham (formerly a teacher at the Academy in Hanover) came here about noon and staid with me. He is going to Richmond. I like him and think him agreeable company. 19, Cleared in morn. Fine mild day. After breakfast Mr Davies set out on his journey towards Richmond-via Louisa Court house. Reu Taylor called here returning from Court house,dined. paid 5/- for 2 lb Saltpetre got when here last. J.Taylor called here after dinner. He chose a pot of Butter,26 lb gross, which he is to send for tomorrow- I promised to let him have some fresh when he sends for it. Joseph Shannon sent an order by John Smith to whom I paid Six dollars for 2 bedsteads.

From the TAYLOR DIARY, #1907-z in the Southern Historical Collection, University of North Carolina Library, Chapel Hill. FOR REFERENCE ONLY: PERMISSIONS TO PUBLISH MUST BE REQUESTED. WARNING: MOST MANUSCRIPTS ARE PROTECTED BY COPYRIGHT.

28[313] DIARY OF FRANCIS TAYLOR,1796, 1796, December, 20, Clear, very cold morning. Had the remainder fatted hogs killed, being 8 small ones, with only 3 legs being one & weight 46. Macon Biggers had one 74 lb making with the four he had the 6th instant (413,lb) 487 lb.The 7 I kept were of the weight following: 71-71-68-67-64-46(3 legs)- =452, making with 14 Hogs killed the 6th instant that weight 1644- 2096 lb Pork. Had the Pork cut out and Salted. M.Biggers had 2 Bus Wheat & sent to Mill. J.Taylor sent and got a Pot 26 lb butter, gross, also 7 1/2 lb fresh in Plates-which he spoke for yesterday. After dinner I rode to Court house- Saw Col J.s Barbour, who was sending goods from the Store here to one at Madison Court house,being about quitting the business at O. Court house. 21, Cloudy morning, clear cold evening. Had lard refined and put in Cellar. I was more unwell than commonly. About noon my nephew William Taylor[son of Jonathan-WKA-] arrive at my house from Kentucky-who informed me that our friends were well when he left that country- He also informed that he desired to purchase my Land on Floyd's Fork to reside on. I told him I wanted to see Reuben Taylor before I sold, as he spoke to me about the same land. 22, Very Cold,clear,brisk wind. Freezing & severe. J.Taylor came here to see W.Taylor & breakfasted. Ch's Taylor was here afterwards but did not stay long. Wm Taylor and I rode to Reu Taylor's,who told me he had no objection against my selling my land on Floyd's fork to William Taylor- We dined at Reu Taylor's & returned in the evening. 23, Clear and hard freezing weather continued. Wm Taylor paid me $20. fort he mare he bought of me the 5th April Last and received his bond. I agreed to sell William Taylor my Tract of land on Floyd's fork, patented for 1,000 acres, which he said he thought will not measure above 750 acres. I sell the said Tract more or less, to him for 1,333, 1/3 dollars. 500 dollars he paid me in hand, and if convenient will pay 100 to G.C.Taylor. He is to give me his bond or note for the sum unpaid: for the payment of which, I promised to indulge him, as long as it will suit me: and that if the land should not be well worth the money I shall be willing to deduct $50. from the price of it. And I am to execute a Deed to convey my title in the said land to him as soon as conveniently can be done, or when he requires it. We exchanged a memorandum of our agreement,but we were alone and both signed each. The patent was in Jefferson supposed now Shelby county. 24, Continues clear and very cold. William Taylor went from here about noon,intending to Mr John Gibson's. I had one of the two stacks of Hay put into Stable & lofted--[Wm T., md. Susan H.Gibson dau of John G., Nov 26,1795-WKA]-25, [SUNDAY] Fair, the cold abated last night, moderate to day- I went to Sermon at the Court house, the congregation small. I came to Aunt Taylor's to dinner. Mrs Burnley & family, Rob't Taylor & family & Mr Glassel's children were there viz't Polly & Janey. 26, Snowed in night & morn, scarce his the gro'nd. I went to Court- Mr.Richards told me that Mr.Triplett had no money for me. I came home & about sunset walked to J.Taylor's and staid till after supper. There was a company and dancing T.Barbour's daughter baptized by Mr O'Neill. Rob't Moore & Phil Barbour( of James ) came & lodged here. 27, Clear but not very cold. I went with Rob't Moore & P.Barbour to J.Taylor's to breakfast and staid till evening, most of the company there that were last night, also Col J.Barbour. Mr O'Neill & J.Taylor jr went early to Culpeper Court house to celebrate StJohns. 28, Great whie frost, clear and very dry. Nancy Taylor, Fanny Barbour & Fanny Pendleton walked here from J.Taylor's & staid a while. I went with them & Dined at J.Taylor's. John Pendleton's family, T.Barbour's family, Lucy Barbour and E.Chew were there- J.Taylor jr had not returned from Culpeper & his wife at Maj'r Moore's. 29, Fair and mild. South wind a little smoky. My negroes at work cutting down cornstalks.

From the TAYLOR DIARY, #1907-z in the Southern Historical Collection, University of North Carolina Library, Chapel Hill. FOR REFERENCE ONLY: PERMISSION TO PUBLISH MUST BE REQUESTED. WARNING: MOST MANUSCRIPTS ARE PROTECTED BY COPYRIGHT.

29[314] DIARY OF FRANCIS TAYLOR,1796, 1796, December, 30, Cloudy night, Snowed till about noon, afterwards misty. The snow 2or 3 inches deep,being the first this winter to hide the ground. wind South & mild. I staid at home. Between 11 & 12 o'clock C.Taylor sent a boy to tell me Mr Dade had invited us to dine there to day. 31, Fair moderate, about half the snow melted. Wm Taylor got here about noon, he has been to Fauqueir Court, when he went to Mr John Gibson's he was gone to Fauquier with his family. After dinner I went with W.Taylor to J.Taylor's & returned at night.

BIRTHS, DEATHS & MARRIAGES 1796 Jan 2, Matthew Cambell married Nancy Bell. 9, Tho's Barbour's young child died. Feb 5, Fortunatus Winslow married Polly Alcock. 9, Charles Taylor had a daughter born-[Named Harriet Thornton,m.Catlett Conway Dan'l Turner to Miss S.Pendleton- Caroline Mar 2, Mr Tho's Bell died James Coleman(Springs) and Wm Quarles, Louisa, Died 28 Feb'y. 15, Henry Pendleton to Elizabeth Pendleton 22, Capt Richard Barbour married Miss[Nancy] Oldham (some time ago) Kent'y {Feb 18,] Alice Taylor (wife of Zachary) died the 6th inst- Kentucky, Apl 12, Zachariah Herndon died. Mrs Easton (formerly wife of E.Taylor)died in Kentucky. Jul 23, Mr Thomas Scott(Madison) died 26, Miss Caty Richards Died at D.Triplett's- Col. Fra's Moore died. Aug Col. Fra's Moore died. Mrs Alcock died (formerly Dr. Walker's wife) 21, Geo.C.Taylor's Eliza died at C.Taylor's Sep , Capt Rob Daniel died about 1, September. Sep 21, Reu Taylor had a daughter born.--[Mary- m. Jerry Keyes-PFT.] 21, Larkin Chew Died. Oct 7, Edm'd Pendleton the younger, his wife died. William Taylor( brother ) married Betsy Courts[Coats-PFT] 20 July last. T,Barbour had a daughter born Nov 15, Adam Darby married Caty Shepherd. 28, John Askew died, aged ninety odd years. Dec 8, Reuben Smith married Milly Glassell. 15, Anthony Buck married Mary Shepherd.

NOTES BY DR.A.G.GRINNAN. Feb. Ben Porter desired F.T. to settle the Executorship by him as Ex'r of his Father, Ben Porter's Estate. Mar. 12 Nimrod Long of Ky presented two orders, one from Edmund H.Taylor and the other from Reuben Eastin for Thruston Taylor,some of Edmund Taylor, for their legacies from Geo Taylor, their grandfather. Apl 6, Tho's Bell's funeral preached(at his late residence) by Rev.O'Neil, who had been engaged as Rector. 7, Zachary Taylor's wife died in Ky.,she was Alice Chew-& he son of Zachary Taylor & Elizabeth Lee. 25, Election for Delegates. I Davis and Ben Johnson. Davis was father of late Tom Davis of Greene Co. 29 Reuben Bell & H.H.Hill elected in Madison. 30, Jas Taylor jr, John T.Moore, Col Campbell & a Mr Bell going to Ky. Jun 28, Case of Taylor's Ex'rs,vs.Rev.O'Neill in Spotsylvania. Jul 10, Subscribed $2.00 towards building a bridge at Barnett's ford. 16, Mrs Potter was a Miss Throckmorton, dau of Rob't T. and sister of Mrs Gen Wm Madison 27, Mrs Wm Glassell mentioned.

From the TAYLOR DIARY, #1907-z in the Southern Historical Collection, University of North Carolina Library, Chapel Hill. FOR REFERENCE ONLY: PERMISSION TO PUBLISH MUST BE REQUESTED. WARNING: MOST MANUSCRIPTS ARE PROTECTED BY COPYRIGHT.

1,[318] DIARY OF FRANCIS TAYLOR,1797, 1797, January, 1, Sunday, Fair, moderate weather for the season. Wiliam Taylor and I went to J.Taylor's,as we promised last evening- John Pendleton's family, T.Barbour's do. J.Taylor jr & wife, Ch's Bell & E.Chew dined there. 2, Windy night & turned colder, cloudy morn, fair evening. J.Taylor came here after breakfast. I went with him and William Taylor to Mrs Bell's, where J.Taylor executed a power of Attorney to W.Taylor to do some business for him in Kentucky- I gave W.Taylor instructions to do some business about my Kentucky lands &c. William Taylor went on to Col.Madison's on his return to Kentucky- J.Taylor went with him to Col Madison's- Maj'r Moore, Capt Scott & John Moore were making a Division of Mr.T.Bell's Slaves, under Decree of Court. J.Taylor jr, Mr Gambel & wife, beside the family, there- In evening I rode to Mr Shepherd's who lent me Newspaper,by which it is supposed Adams is elected President. 3, Cold cloudy night, Snowed about day and till noon about 3 inches deep, cloudy evening not very cold. I staid at home. 4, Cold cloudy morn. Fair evening. Reu Taylor's Ben came with a Cart & got some Pots and Bar iron. I exchanged a Dutch oven 35 lb for one 17 lb. J.Taylor jr, J.Pendleton & Geo Pendleton Fox hunting, called and got a drink of Grog. 5, Fair, not very cold nor much thaw. Col James Barbour, his sons Thomas & Rich'd, Maj'r Moore, his sons William & Robert, John Pendleton, Geo Pendleton, Wm Pendleton, J.Taylor, C.Taylor,Reuben Taylor and J.Taylor jr dined here. 6, Cool, clear morn, mild hazy evening and thaw.Had Oats cleaned about 35 Bushels. I was invited to T.Bell's, to be there this evening, but staid at home-not being so well as common. 7, Very cold, raw cloudy- Cleared in evening. I staid at home. 8, Sunday, Very hard frost, Clear and cold. W, Garde sent Henry with my Shoes which he had scaled & found the leather, he sent for some butter and I sent 4 lb by Henry. I went to J.Taylor's- J.Pendleton & family, T.Barbour & family, J.Taylor jr and wife and E.Chew dined there. 9, Very hard frost & continues clear. I had a pair Shoes made for E.Chew & sent by Sawney in night. 10, Continues very cold,cloudy & not quite so cold at night. J.Taylor,J.Taylor jr, John Pendleton & C.Taylor dined there. 11, Wednesday, Mist before day- Rained afterwards briskly several hours- Ice on trees- Sun shone in evening & fog. mild. I was at home all day. 12, Some clouds- fair evening, fine day. I sent 2 bags corn to Mill and got meal. I walked to the road in evening-Saw J.Taylor jr and John Pendleton hare hunting the latter said his wife had miscarried yesterday. 13, Ground froze hard- fair mild day. I walked to J.Taylor's,borrowed a deed to write one by, to transfer the Land I sold William Taylor. I dined at J.Taylor's Geo Petty was at the office- J Pendleton went to Culpeper to day, his family, Ta.Barbour's family, J.Taylor jr & wife & E.Chew there. 14, Rain early in morn & till evening, great thaw. J.Taylor, J.Taylor jr, Tho Barbour, dined with me.*John Taylor & Ch's Taylor came after dinner. Jno Taylor staid with me.--[John Taylor, son of Erasmus- WKA] 15, Sunday, Thin clouds, mild- very little frost. Jno Taylor went away after breakfast. I staid at home. 16, Monday, Some spits snow in morning,snowed at Great Mountains. moderate fair afternoon. I went to J.Taylor's. John Taylor, Rob't Taylor, Mrs Howard, Reuben Smith & wife(Mildred Glassell-WKA), Reuben Taylor, Gabriel Barbour,Tho'Barbour & family, J.Pendleton's family, J.Taylor jr and wife, Fanny Pendleton, Nelly Green & E Chew dined there. A Shepherd jr there in evening. I staid to supper. T.Barbour gave me an account of articles for E.Chew to amount of 91/g got from their store. I gave John Taylor a dollar to pay Mullin the printer. Littler Peter absented to day, came home at night.

From the TAYLOR DIARY, #1907-z in the Southern Historical Collection, University of North Carolina Library, Chapel Hill. FOR REFERENCE ONLY: PERMISSION TO PUBLISH MUST BE REQUESTED. WARNING: MOST MANUSCRIPTS ARE PROTECTED BY COPYRIGHT.

2[319] DIARY OF FRANCIS TAYLOR, 1797, 1797, January, 17, Some frost, Fair pleasant day. I had the meat hung up to smoke,that was first killed,part was hung up last week. 18, Rained a little in morn-mild-fair evening. C.Taylor came here to breakfast from Mrs Bell's, told me Mr. Gambel died last night. C.T's family are at Capt Conway's,he went from here (after breakfast) to go there. Tho's Doolin came here. Brought a mem'dum that 3 1/2 yards coating weighed 3 1/4 lb- my Coat weight 2 1/2 lb-he wanted me to pay him- I paid 5/- for making Great Coat and refused to pay for making the other,it being too small &c19, Some clouds-moderate,no falling weather. I was at home. 20, Friday, Snowed before day about 3 inches deep, Snow,Sleet and rain through the day,but not deeper at night than in the morning, not very cold. I staid at home. Rec'd a letter from J.Madison jr[President] inclosing my plat,2 of Reuben Taylor's & 1 of Col.W.White's, for land N.W. of Ohio, which he cou'd not obtain patents for, they wanted form. 21, Rained a good deal last night, cloudy all day and thawed, but not to melt the in from the trees,there being a great deal. Snow mist at times to day. I was at home all day. Davy mended (Sealed) Old Peter's & S.Daniel's Shoes. L.Peters had been mended a few days ago. 22, Sunday, a little fine snow fell in the night (1/2 inche) on the old,which was mostly ice, some clouds, cleared moderate but did not melt all the ice from N.side of trees &c. I walked to J.Taylor's- J.Pendleton & family & E.Chew dined there T.Barbour sent for Doct'r Taylor that his daughter was ill- C.Taylor was at Capt Conway's and did not come. 23, Thaw, fair, mild-miry. I went to Court. Got the Boots J.Henshaw had put new feet to & paid him 3 1/2 dollars- paid Mr Shepherd 1/6 for postage & 1/3 for removing mare's shoes. Capt Conway, Col A.Maury & C.Taylor came home with me, I gave Rich'd White a plat of Land of his brother Col W.White's sent in Col Madison's Letter. Saw Mr T.Richards at Court, he said Mr Triplett had no money for me yet. 24, Mild,thawing day, most of snow one off. Capt Conway, Col Maury & C.Taylor went away after breakfast- C.Taylor intended to Maj'r Moore's,being sent for to see a sick negro girl,hear she died before he got there. I promised to 1st Capt Conway have part of a Land Warrant (50 acres) out of one I have of 100. I rode towards Court house, met Maj'r Moore going to Aunt Taylor's and went there with him. John Taylor, Mrs Howard, Polly Glassel &c. there. 25, Cool sharp morning, fair moderate day. I had a Shoat killed. Maj'r Moore, John Moore, Robert Moore, Capt Richard Barbour, John Taylor,Robert Taylor,J.Taylor,J.Taylor jr. John Pendleton & Charles Bell dined here. John Taylor staid with me. 26, Mild, thaw, hazy. John Taylor went away after breakfast- he intends setting off home to day. Had the last killed pork hung. 27, Friday, Slight frost, some clouds, mild. I staid at home, more unwell than common. J.Gibson & Nat Taylor & J.Pendleton's three boys came over in the evening I gave them Walnuts & Apples. Thunder & a little rain before I went to bed. 28, Very mild, a little hazy and windy. I took Ipecac & Jallap & staid at home. J.Taylor sent home my butter pot he had butter in it in December,gross 26 lb, pot 8 lb, Nett 18 lb. A young heifer had a male calf. 29, Sunday, Cloudy morn & a very little rain- very windy at night. I went to J.Taylor's- dined there, they had Rock fish- * Old Mrs Gaines, J.Pendleton's family Fanny Pendleton, Nelly Green, J.Taylor jr & wife & E[lizabeth] Chew, were there --[The Gaines's were descended from the 2nd wife of the 1st James Taylor-WKA] 30, Thin clouds or hazy. I was very unwell last night & today-took Salts but puked them up. I walked to J.Taylor's-carried 24 yards Bed tick to get 2 Bed ticks made by John Pendleton's wife. The Bed tick was brought yesterday from Mess'rs Barbour's by Joe- I dined at J.Taylor's- his wife & Mrs Gaines were gone to Mrs Bell's. Nancy Taylor to Tom Bell's, J. Pendleton & the same as yesterday (except as above) at J.Taylor's.

From the TAYLOR DIARY, #1907-z in the Southern Historical Collection, University of North Carolina Library, Chapel Hill. FOR REFERENCE ONLY: PERMISSION TO PUBLISH MUST BE REQUESTED. WARNING: MOST MANUSCRIPTS ARE PROTECTED BY COPYRIGHT.