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The sources for most all deeds below are North Carolina Department of Archives and History [NCSA], unless otherwise specified. Please note that, while I'm good at reading ancient deeds with cryptic handwriting, their preservation in some instances has taken a toll on pieces of information and the records themselves. Some deeds are too faded, but the great majority of deeds are readable. Make sure you look at the General Index to Real Estate Conveyances, Cumberland County by Grantees.

An explanation of how land claims and entries became land grants in North Carolina, from "The Dixie Frontier," by Everett Dick, 1948, p. 10:
"The North Carolina law, applicable to Tennessee in 1782, had the advantage over that of Kentucky, however, in that an official surveyor marked off the land. The system was: (1) A claimant would go into the woods and mark out roughly the boundaries of the desired tract. (2) This crude survey when submitted to the entry-taker at the land office was called an "entry." He made a record of the entry and issued a warrant for the survey. (3) The official surveyor connected with the land office then made a survey and submitted a plat to the secretary of state, who issued a land grant. (4) The title was complete when the grant was recorded in the office of the register of the county where the land lay."

It should be said here that entries, warrants of survey, or surveys could be sold to other persons before such devices culminated in a formal grant. Also be aware that the entire process, from the settler's marking out his desired tract to the issuance of the grant to the settler could take many weeks, months or years.

John McFearson 4 June 1740 — 320 Acres in Bladen County on the S.W. side of the N.W. branch of the Cape Fear River joining the river bank about a mile and a half below the Great Falls.

Archibald Buoy 20 Apr 1745—150 Acres in Bladen County on the NW side of the N.W. River, joining John McPherson and the river. [Is this a second early tract, or is it simply a reference to the 320 acres tract near Cross Creek?]

Murdock McCraine to John McPherson, 14 March 1749 — 1162/3 acres in Bladen County [in what is today Cumberland County], NC, along the "river bank," meaning presumably the Cape Fear River. This deed probably burned in one of the first two Bladen County courthouse fires [there were three fires: one in 1769, second in 1800, and the third in 1893] and was re-recorded in Cumberland in 1804. John McPherson sold this 116 2/3 acres to Thomas Matthrews in 1763.

John McPherson to Thomas Armstrong, 8 March 1754, Cumberland County

This Indenture made the 8th day of March in the Year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and fifty four between John McPherson of Bladen County [will become Cumberland County within months] in the Province of North Carolina, tailor; of the one part, and Thomas Armstrong of the County & province aforesaid, planter, of the other part, Whereas William Gray by force and virtue of his Majesty's letter patent, dated the 9th day of September 1737, became lawfully possessed of and in 640 acres of land, situate, lying and being in the said County of Bladen, on the No. Et. side of the No. Wt. River, about a mile above the upper end of the Long Pond, joining the upper side of the land granted to Francis Holton and Beginning at an elm on the River Bank, thence S. 10 E. 316 poles to a pine; thence N. 80 E. 320 poles to a cyprefs; then N. 10 W. 324 poles to a gum on the River; from thence bounded by the River to the first station; and the said William Gray being in actual pofsefsion of the said 640 acres of land, in and by his deed or writing by him duly executed, and bearing date the 17th day of July A.D. 1739, for the consideration therein mentioned, did grant and convey the same unto William Gray, who being lawfully pofsefsed thereof, in and by his certain deed or writing by him duly executed, did grant and convey the upper half of said 640 acres of land unto Alexander McAllester, that is to say, 320 acres thereof Beginning at a gum on the River bank, thence S. 10 E. 324 poles to a cyprefs; thence S. 80 W. 160 poles to another cyprefs; then N. 10 W. 320 poles to a white oak at the River, the said Armstrong's upper corner; thence up by the River to the first Station. To hold to him the said Alexander McAllester his heirs and afsigns forever, as by the said deed bearing date the 10th day of February A.D. 1745, doth and may at large appear. And the said Alexander McAllester being so lawfully pofsefsed of and in the said 320 acres of land, in and by his deed or writing by him duly executed for the consideration herein mentioned did grant and convey the same unto the above named John McFersion, to hold to him the said John McFersion his heirs and afsigns forever, as by the last recited deed, bearing date the [blank space] Anno Dom. [blank space] doth and may more at large appear. Now this Indenture Witnefseth that the said John McFersion for and in consideration of the sum of Forty pounds Proclamation money to him in hand paid...[much legalese]....

John McPherson {seal}
his

mark

Sealed and delivered
in presence of
William Armstrong
Francis Armstrong

Octobr Court 1754 – William Armstrong came into Court & made oath that he saw John McFersion execture the aforewritten deed to Thomas Armstrong and that he did also see Francis Armstrong sign as an evidence at the same time.

Thos. Jones, C.C.

Registered the 9th day of Decr. 1754 Thos. Jones, Reg.

Thomas Brooks to John McPherson, 24 April 1754, Cumberland County

This Indenture made the 24th day of April in the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and fifty four, between Thomas Brooks of Orange County & Province of North Carolina, planter, of the one part, and John McPherson of the County of Cumberland and Province aforesaid, planter; of the other part, Witnefseth, that the said Thomas Brooks, for and in consideration of the sum of thirty four pounds Proclamation money to him in hand paid before the sealing & delivery of these presents, whereof he doth hereby acknowledge the receipt thereof and of every part thereof, doth fully, clearly and absolutely acquit and forever discharge the said John McPherson his heirs, executors, administrators and afsigns, by these presents hath given, granted, bargained and sold, aliened, enfeoffed, conveyed and confirmed, and by these presents doth give, grant, bargain, sell, alien, enfeoff, convey and confirm unto the said John McPherson a certain tract of land, lying and being in the said County of Cumberland on the South branch of Crofs Creek where Abraham Odam lately lived – Beginning at a red oak, running S. 50 W. 120 poles to a black oak; then S. 40 E. 140 poles to a pine; thence N. 50 E. 120 poles to a red oak; thence up the various courses of the Creek to the beginning, containing one hundred acres granted and confirmed to the said Thomas Brooks his heirs & afsigns as in and by his Majesty's letters patent to him thereof made and duly executed, bearing date the 26th day of September 1753, relation thereto being had may more fully appear.... [much legalese]...

Signed Sealed & delivered in presence of usxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxThomas Brooks {seal}
Hector McNeill – John Clark

Thomas Brooks came into Court and acknowledged the above deed to John McPherson, Thos Jones, Clerk
Registered the 28th of September 1754

John McPherson to John Russell 29 July 1754, Cumberland County

This Indenture Witnifseth that John McPherson of Cumberland County in the Province of North Carolina, tailor, for and in consideration of the sum of Forty Pounds Proclamation money to him in hand paid by John Rusfell of the county and province aforesaid, planter, the receipt whereof he doth hereby confefs and acknowledge, and thereof and of every Part and parcel thereof doth fully, freely and absolutely exonerate, acquit and forever discharge the said John Rufsell his heirs, excutors administrators & asfigns by these presents hath given, granted, bargained, sold, aliended, enfeoffed, conveyed and confirmed, and by these presents doth give, grant, bargain, sell, alien, enfeoff, convey and confirm unto the said John Rufsell a certain piece of parcel of land, lying and being in Cumberland County on the No. Wt. side of the No. Wt. branch of Cape Fear River, Beginning at a gum in said Rufsell's upper line, thence N. 57 W. 541/2 [chains] to a pine, thence N. 15 E. 181/2 chains to a pine; thence S. 75 E. 541/2 chains to an ash tree on the River bank; thence down the River to the first Station, containing 100 acres. ...[much legalese]... In Witnefs Whereof the said John McPherson hath hereunto set his hand and affixed his seal this 29th day of July A.D. 1754.

John McPherson {seal}
his

mark

Sealed and delivered
in presence of
Hector McNeill
Robt Dearing

Hector McNeill came into court and made oath that he saw John McPherson execute the aforewritten deed to John Rufsell and that he did also see Robert Dearing sign as an evidence at the same time.

Registered the 3rd day of Decr 1754

Thos Jones, Reg

John Brooks to John McPherson 1754, Cumberland County

100 Acres Cross Creek. This deed has not been transcribed yet. –SE.

John Russell to John McPherson 1756, Cumberland County

pt 160 Acres North West River of Cape Fear River. This deed has not been transcribed yet. –SE.

John Bone to John McPherson 1757, Cumberland County

80 Acres Cape Fear River. This deed has not been transcribed yet. –SE.

John McFarshion to Thomas Matthews, 14 January 1763, Cumberland County

This Indenture made the 14th day of January in the Year of our Lord 1763 between John McFarshion of County of Cumberland and province of North Carolina, planter; of the one part, & Thomas Matthews of the County & province aforesaid, blacksmith, of the other part, Whereas John McFarshion by deed bearing date the 14th day of March 1759 [Probably to re-record a deed burned in the Bladen County courthouse fire of 1800, Cumberland County court minutes record in 1804 that this transaction took place in 1749, not 1759, and that the 1162/3 acres were purchased by John McPherson from Murdock McCrainie] became lawfully seized & pofsefsed of & in 1162/3 acres of land – Beginning at a white oak in sd. Thomas Matthews' lower corner thence by the sd. Matthews' lower corner line S. 75 W. 280 poles to a pine, thence S. 15 E. 662/3 poles to a pine; thence S. 15 E. 280 poles to a gum at the river bank [Cape Fear River? No river's name is mentioned in the deed], above the mouth of a gully; thence up the River to the first station; Now this Indenture Witnefseth, that the sd. John McFarson for & in consideration of the sum of one hundred pounds Proc. money to him in hand paid, the receipt whereof he doth hereby acknowledge... doth grant, bargain, sell, alein, enfeoff, convey & confirm unto the sd. Thomas Matthews, his heirs, exrs. admins. & afsigns the sd. 1162/3 acres situate then in the County of Bladen, now in the County of Cumberland [which would be pre-1754], be the same more or lefs ... [much legalese] ...

John McPherson {seal}
his

mark

Sealed and delivered
in presence of
John Matthews _ Isa. Parvisol

Cumberland County
February Court, 1763
Ten was the execution of the afsd. deed in open Court, in due form of law proved by the oath of Isaiah Parvisol, one of the subscribing evidences & admitted to record. Recorded in the minutes of said court. Richd Grove, C.C.

John McDuffie to John McPherson 1766, Cumberland County

This Indenture made this 14th day of August 1766 Between John McDuffie of the Province of North Carolina & County of Cumberland Planter of the one part & John McPherson of the said County & Province Planter, Witnesseth that the said John McDuffie for & in consideration of the sum of 112 pounds Proclamation money to him in hand paid by the said john McPherson before ensealing & delivery of these presents the receipt whereof the said John McDuffie doth hereby acknowledge & himself therewith fully satisfied & paid of every part thereof doth fully freely & absolutely exonerate acquit & forever discharge the said John McPherson his heirs and assigns forever hath given granted bargained sold aliened enfeoffed conveyed & confirmed & by these presents doth give grant bargain sell alien enfeoff convey & confirm unto the said John McPherson a tract of land containing 200 acres lying & being in the county & province aforesaid on the drains of Cross Creek beginning at a white oak the Bank of the said John McPherson's [property on the creek] thence South 75 West 179 poles to a Pine thence South 15 East 179 poles to a Pine thence North 75 East 179 poles to a Pine thence West 179 poles to the first station, with all the estates right title interest property claim & demand whatsoever of the said John McDuffie...[much legalese]...
In Witness Whereof the said John McDuffie
hereunto put his hand & seal the day and year above written xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx John McDuffie his X mark {seal}
Sealed & delivered in presence of
Richard Grove
Daniel McGill

August Court 1766 Then was the execution of the this deed in open Court in due form of law proved by the oath of Richard Grove & ordered to be Recorded, Richard Grove C.C.

[William?] Goodson to Daniel McPherson, 1767, Bladen County

From a Robeson County, NC, 1825 deed Flora Buie to Gilbert Gilchrist: "...tract of one hundred acres or all the right title interest and claim which the said Flora has therein situate in Robeson as aforesaid called the Goodson tract or Goodson’s land including of the Goodson field being the same conveyed to Daniel McPherson (Father of the Grantor [Flora Buie]) by deed dated 9th June AD 1767 Beginning at a white oak on Raft Swamp and runs North..."

[This deed most probably burned in the Bladen courthouse fires.]

James Robeson to Alexander McPherson, 1768, Cumberland County

This Indenture made the 25th day of October in the year of our Lord 1768, Between James Robeson of the County of Cumberland in the Province of North Carolina of the one part & Alexander McPherson of the County & province aforesaid of the other part, Witnesseth thus for & in consideration of the sum of one pound Proc money to the said James Robeson in hand paid by the said Alexander McPherson as & before the sealing & delivery of these presents the Receipt & payment whereof as hereby acknowledged hath granted bargained sold aliened enfeoffed conveyed & confirmed & by these presents doth grant bargain sell alien enfeoff convey & confirm unto the said Alexander McPherson his heirs & assigns forever a certain tract of land situate lying & being in Cumberland County in the Province aforesaid the South West of the North West River [Cape Fear River] on the Drains of the head of Blounts Creek containing 640 acres Beginning at a Black Oak on the Western ~~Edge~~ side of a small Branch a little below Alexander McPhersons house & runs thence South 15 West 80 chains, thence North 15 west 80 chains, thence North 15 east 80 chains, thence south 75 east to the beginning with the appurtenances lying & being as aforesaid...[much legalese].
In Witness Whereof the said James Robeson has hereunto set his hand & seal the day & year first above written
Signed Sealed and delivered in presence ofxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxJames Robeson {seal}
Duncan Mackie
Samuel Hollingsworth

North Carolina October Term 1768
Then was the execution of this deed in Open Court in due form of law proved by the oath of Duncan Mackie & ordered to be Recorded. Thomas Rutherford CC

[This Alexander McPherson is the son of Old John McPherson; other deeds prove this. Notice that Alexander's payment is for only ONE pound—but for 640 acres? It's possible that this was a recording error, but the wording seems too specific to be an error. If it were an error, more than likely the word 'pound' would have been plural. Perhaps James Robeson owed the McPherson family money...or was there a family connection?]

Grant No. ??
State of North Carolina to John McPherson, 9 April 1770

50 Acres in Bladen in the fork of the Raft Swamp joining Juniper branch above the mouth (Patent Book 20, p. 562).

John Campbell, Jr. and Mary McPherson; bastardy bond, 1770, Cumberland County

No Carolina Cumberland Cty
Know all Men by the Presents that we John Campbell Daniel Campbell & John Campbell all of the Parish of St. David of County of Cumberland are held & firmly bound to our Sovereign Lord the King his Heirs & Successors to say John Campbell Senior the sum of thirty pounds proc money & Daniel Campbell & John Campbell Junior the sum of ten pounds each like money, to be paid to our said Sovereign Lord the King & To which payment will & truly to be made we bind ourselves our Heirs Executors & Administrs firmly by these Presents. Sealed with our Seals. Date this 27th day of April Anno Domini 1770.

The Condition of this obligation is such that whereas above bound John Campbell Sr. hath Begotten on the body of Mary McPherson a Bastard Child named __[only a blank space drawn]__ If therefore the said John Campbell shall & do will & truly save harmless & keep endemnified the Parish of St. David in the said County & Province from the maintainence of the said Bastard Child aforesaid and of & from all Costs & charges whatsoever that shall or may accrue by the maintenance of the same then this obligation to be void otherwise to be & remain in full Force & Virtue.
Signed Sealed & Delivered in Presence of } ———————————————
Dun: MacKey.———————————xxxxxx————xxxxx———xxxxx—

John Campbell {seal}

Donald (or Daniel) Campbell {seal}

John Campbell {seal}

Colin Shaw to John McPherson 1770; mortgage deed, Cumberland County

117 Acres unspecified location in deed index. This deed has not been transcribed yet. –SE.

Soloman Johnston, Jr. to Soloman Johnston Sr., 1 January 1771, Bladen County
This deed has been in my family for several generations and may not be found in official Bladen County records.

This Indenture made the first day of Jany in the year of [our] Lord One Thousand Seven hundred and seventy one Between Solomon Johnston Jnr of Bladen County in the Province of North Carolina of the one part and Solomon Johnston Senr of the County and Province aforesd of the Other Part. Witnefseth that the said Solomon Johnston Jnr for and in consideration of the sum of Fifty Pounds Proc[lamation] money to him in hand Paid by the said Solomon Johnston Senr at or Before the Ensealing and Delivery of these Presents the Receipt Whereof he the said Solomon Johnston Junr doth give Grant Bargain sell align and Confirm unto the said Solomon Johnston Senr his Heirs and afsigns forever a Certain part or parcel of Land Containing Two Hundred Acres Begining at a white oak on a Branch on the South side of the Raft Swamp Runing So 45 Wt 120 poles to a Cyprefs tree then No 50 Wt 600 poles to a pine No 30 Et 200 poles to the Swamp thence to the Begining be it more or Lefs To being Part of the six hundred acres Granted to Henry Oberry October __ 5th 1750 To have and to hold the aforesaid bargained Land and Premifes Together with all House Gardens woods ways and waters with all Timbers fences and Cleared Grounds... [much legalese]...In Witnefs Whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this Day and year first above written

Signd Seald and Delivered————————————xxxxxxxxxxxx———Solomon Johnston {seal}
in the Presence of us————————xxxxxxxxxxxxx—xxxxxxxxxx— (his mark looks like a capital J or T)
Richd Smith
James Buie (his mark)

Edward and Isabel McPherson to John Graham, 1771, Cumberland County

Edward McPherson }
to John Graham
This Indenture made the 26th day of February in the year 1771 Between Edward McPherson & Isabel his wife of Cumberland County and Province of North Carolina of the one part and John Graham of the county and Province aforesaid of the other part Witnesseth that the said Edward McPherson and Isabel his wife for and in consideration of the sum of 40 pounds Proclamation Money to him in hand paid by John Graham at or before the unsealing and delivery hereof the receipt whereof is hereby acknowledged have bargained sold aliened enfeoffed and confirmed and by the presents do bargain well alien enfeoff and confirm unto the said John Graham his heirs or assigns all that tract of land containing 100 acres more or less lying & being in the county aforesaid and on the south West side of the North West River of Cape Fear on a branch of Rockfish Creek on the Wagon Road. Beginning at a Red Oak, thence North 65 East 127 poles to a pine, thence South 25 West 127 poles to a stake, thence South 65 East 127 poles to a pine then North 25 East 127 poles to the first station granted by his Majestys letter patent to John McFall bearing date 15 day of March 1756 then conveyed by deed to Thomas Minyard bearing date the 2nd day of October 1758 then conveyed to Duncan Baker by deed bearing date 11th day of December 1760 then conveyed to Edward McPherson by deed bearing date the 21st day of January 1766; To have & to hold the said 100 acres of land hereby granted and sold and all and singular the premises with their and every of their appurtenances unto the said John Graham his heirs and assigns forever and he the said Edward McPherson & Isabel his wife their heirs executors and administrators do covenant & grant to & with the said John Graham his heirs and assigns that he the said Edward McPherson & Isabel his wife... [much legalese]
In witness Whereof the said Edward McPherson & Isabel his wife to these presents hath set their hands & affixed their seals the day and year first above written

Edward McPherson {seal}
Isabel McPherson {seal}

Sealed and delivered
in presence of us
Donald Graham xxxxxxxxxxxNorth Carolina
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxCumberland County
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxJuly Term 1771
xxxxhis
John X McDuffie
xxxmark

Then was the execution of this Deed in open Court in due form of law proved by the oath of John McDuffie & ordered to be Recorded – Thomas Rutherford CC

John McPherson of Bladen County to David Reid of Cumberland County, 1772

State of North Carolina (to wit)
Know all persons whom it may concern that I John McPherson of the County of Bladen and province aforesaid for and in consideration of Forty five pounds current money of the said province to him in hand paid by David Reid of the County of Cumberland the receipt of do hereby acknowledge and myself to be herewith fully satisfied and contented have bargained sold and Delivered and by these presents according to due form of Law do bargain Sell & Deliver unto the said David Reid a Tract of Land containing one hundred [acres] lying and being on a branch of Crofs Creek beginning at a pine thence Running So 127 poles to a white oak thence west 127 poles to a red oak thence No 127 poles to a pine crofsing the Branch at 40 poles then with a right line to the first station _ To Have and to hold the said bargained premises unto the said David Reid his Heirs Exrs Admrs and afsigns forever and that the said John McPherson for himself his heirs Exrs Admrs the said bargained premises unto the said David Reid– his Heirs Exrs Admrs and afsigns against all persons whatsoever shall and will warrant and forever defend by these presents for witnefs whereof I have hereunto Set my hand and seal this eighth day of Octr in the year of our Lord one thousand Seven hundred Seventy two.

his

xxxxJohn McPherson {seal}
mark

Signed Sealed and Delivered in presence of Dun Ochiltree
Lewis Munro [Old John McPherson's son-in-law mentioned in his will]

North Carolina Cumbd County 1772 Therewith the execution of this deed in open Court proved by the oath of
Dun Ochiltree Thomas Rutherford CC

Grant; John McPherson, Cumberland County, 22 January 1773

50 Acres in Cumberland County on a branch between Beaver Creek and Little Rockfish, joining the hill side above the mouth of the branch (Patent Book 22, p. 180).

John McPherson to George Milne & Robert Hogg; 27 January 1774, Cumberland County, NC

This Indenture made the twenty seventh day of January in the year of our Lord one Thousand Seven Hundred and seventy four Between John McPherson in the county of Cumberland in the Province of North Carolina planter of the one Part & George Milne and Robert Hogg of county of Cumberland in the Province of North Carolina ______s of the other Part Witnefseth that for in in consideration of the Sum of thirty pounds Proclamation money to the said John McPherson in hand Paid by the said George Milne and Robert Hogg & before the Security and delivery of these presents (the Receipt and payment is hereby Acknowledged) Hath Granted Bargained Sold Enfeoffed Conveyed and Confirmed and by the Presents doth Grant Bargain Sell Alien Enfeoff Convey & Confirm unto the said George Milne and Robert Hogg & their heirs and afsigns forever A certain tract or Parcel of Land containing Two [or One] hundred acres Lying and being in the County and province aforesaid in the Drains of Crofs Creek beginning at a white oak in the bank of said John McPhersons [the description of the tract is mostly undecipherable] ...to the beginning which said tract or parcel of Land was granted to one John McDuffie by His Majestys Letter Pattent bearing Date the Twenty ___ day of April in the year of our Lord 1764 and by the said John McDuffie was conveyed to the said John McPherson by Deed bearing Date the first Day of April Anno Domini 1766 as by reference there to being made will more fully & at length appear ...[the remainder of the deed is a great deal of legalese, mostly undecipherable]...

his

xxxxJohn McPherson {seal}
mark

Signed Sealed and Delivered in the presents of us
_____, Robert Craig
___ ___ and in the ___ ___ of the said
Coll McAllister
John Lyonsby

North Carolina
Cumber County} April Term 1774 Then was the Execution of this Deed in Open Court in the __ ____ of said ___Proved by the Oath of Coll McAlister & order to be registered Thos Rutherford Clk.

Henry and Margaret Williams to Angus Mcfarson; February 1774, Cumberland County, NC

This Indenture made this 4th day of Feby One Thousand Seven Hundred and Seventy four Between Henry Williams of the one part, and Angus McFarson of the other part Witnefseth that the said Henry Williams for and in consideration of the sum of Thirty Pounds Lawful Money to me in hand apid by Angus McFerson the Receipt whereof is hereby acknowledged have given granted Barfgained Sold Aliened Enfeoiff and Confirmed, & by these presents doth fully and absolutely Grant, Bargain, Sell Alien, Enfeoff, Confiirm unto the said Angus McPherson his Heirs & Afsigns forever one hundred acres of Land Lying in the Government of North Carolina & in the County of Cumberland formerly patented unto Thomas Ingles and Deeded from the said Thomas Ingles to Henry Williams Bearing Date the 21 Day of October one Thousand Seven Hundred and Seventy three Beginning at a Hickory on the East side of Drowning Creek running thence N 5 East 130 poles Crofsing a Branch to a White Oak thence N 85 Wt 130 poles to Drowning Creek thence S 5 Wt 130 ples down the said Creek to a Maple thence So 85 Et 130 poles to the first Station with all Trees, Wood Waters Houses Orchards Profits benefits to the said Land belonging or any way appertaining to have and to hold to him the said Angus McPherson his heirs and Afsigns forever... [much legalese]...
Signed Sealed and DeliveredxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxHenry Williams {Seal}
in the presents of xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxherxxxx
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxMargaret Williams{Seal}
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxmark
Signed Sealed and Delivered
in the presents of us
Willm Bust
Alexr __?__
xxxxxxxhis
Laughlin McPharson
xxxxxxmark

North Carolina Cumberland County July Term 1774 Then was the exectuion of this deed in open Court in Due form of Law proved by the oath of William Bust & Ordered to be Recorded Thos Rutherford Clk.

Grant No. 887; to Daniel McPherson of Cumberland (?) County, March 4, 1775

Daniel McPherson 150 acres in Cumberland County SWt of the NWt [River] _ begining at a Stake at John McPherson's back line of his River Tract and Runs So. 75 Wt 34 Chains to a Corner not far from a pine a Corner of said John McPherson's back Survey thence along said line So 15 E 45 Chains thence No 75 E 34 Chains to a corner near the said McPherson's back line of his said River Survey then along said line No 15 W 45 chains to the first Station – Dated 4th March 1775 ~ xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxJo. Martin

Deed, John Smith to son Samuel Smith, Bladen County, July 22, 1777

To all christian people to whome these presents shall come I John Smith of Bladen County and province of North Carolina do send greeting xxKnow ye that I the said John Smith for and in consideration of the love and good will & affection I have and do bear to my well beloved son Samuel Smith of the County and provence aforesaid have given granted Demised and bequeath to my said Son Samuel two pieces of land Both Containing Six hundred and forty acres be the same more or less lying and being in the County of Bladen and province aforesaid on the No. Et. Side of the No. West branch of Cape Fear river Beginning at a Birch on the river So. 60 Degs E 456 poles to a pine thence No. 30 degs W. 116 poles to a pine thence So. 60 degs 456 poles to a red oak on the river then the various Courses of the river to the first Station, the other piece beginning at the upper line at a red oak on the river thence No. 60 degs E. 456 poles to a pine thence No. 30 Degs W. 116 poles to a pine thnce So. 60 Degs W. 456 poles to a red oak on the river thence the various courses of the river to the first Station with the buildings Improvements and appurtenances there unto belonging xxTo have and To hold to him my son Samuel Smith his heirs & assigns forever Only reserving to my self any part or so much of the said pieces of land Timber and Building during my natural life as I shall think proper to Make use of xxIn Witness whereof I hereunto Set my hand and Seal this 22 day of July and in the year of Our Lord One Thousand Seven hundred and Seventy Seven
Signed Sealed & delivered in the presence of
Wm. McRee JrxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxJohn Smith {Seal}
John Blocker

Bladen November Term 1777 xxxxThis deed was acknowledged in open Court and ordered to be registeredxxxxJohn White CC

I do certify the above to be a true Copy from the registers Office in Bladen County
D Lewis regr.

Bond, John McPherson, Alexander McPherson & Mark Cole, Cumberland County, 3 November 1777

Know all men by these presents that we John McPherson, Alexander McPherson and Mark Cole are held and firmly bound unto his Excellency Richd Caswell governor of the State of No Carolina in the sum of Sixty pounds Currency, to which payment well and truely to be made we do bind ourselves our heirs, Exrs & firmly by these presents sealed with our seals and dated this 3d day of November one thousand seven hundred and seventy seven —
The Conditions of the above obligations which that if the above John McPherson Shall & will make his personal appearance at the next Sefsion to be held for the County of Cumberland on the fourth tuesday in January next and stay till discharged then the above obligation to be void and of none that otherwise to remain in full force and virtue.
Sealed Signd & delivered
in presence of

John McPherson {seal}

————his
Alexander a McPherson {seal}
———–mark

Mark Cole {seal}

[When the signature of John McPherson above is compared to his signature on the estate paper of his father Alexander dated 1801, it is undoubtedly that of John McPherson, Jr., brother of Colin McPherson, both sons of Alexander McPherson of Beaver Creek and grandsons of Old John McPherson of the Argyll Colony. This bond is dated 1777 when John was 17 or 18 years old. In the years following 1777, when John was several years older, his brother Colin witnessed documents for and with his brother John, posted bond for John's bastard child in 1790 as well as his post as county magistrate later that decade. Colin also witnessed John's marriage to Sallie Black in 1812. But, in 1777, Colin was only 14 years old and not of legal age, and unable to put up securities or post bond of any kind. The signature of Alexander of Jura, only 23 years old at this time, is shown with his characteristic "a"-shaped mark. Mark Cole, a local Tory in the Revolution, signed his name to the bond as well (though not shown). Why were Alex McPherson of Jura and Mark Cole—and not John's father Alexander of Beaver Creek—putting up security for John in this bond? The reason for this bond has not been discovered.]

Alexander McPherson to Malcolm McPherson, Sr., 5 March 1778, Cumberland County

This Indenture made the fifth day of March in the year of our Lord One Thousand Seven Hundred and Seventy Eight between Alexr McPherson Junr. of Cumberland County & province of No Carolina of the one part and Malcom McPherson of the County & province aforesaid of the other part; Witnefseth that for & in consideration of the sum of Twenty eight pounds proclamation money to him the said Alexr McPherson paid in hand at & before the sealing & delivery of these presents the receipt & payment whereof is hereby acknowledged hath granted bargained sold alliened enfeoff'd convey'd & confirmed and by these presents doth grant bargain sell enfeoff convey & confirm unto the sd Malcom McPherson his heirs afsigns forever a certain tract of land situate lying & being in Cumberland County in the province aforesaid in the east side of Beaver Creek containing one hundred acres. Begining at two Black Jacks by a cabbin & runs N. 127 poles to a stake thence Wt 127 poles to a stake thence S. 127 poles to a stake thence to the beginning with the appurtenances lying & being as aforesaid with their & every of their rights membrances & appurtenances... [much legalese]... In Witness whereof the sd Alexander McPherson has hereunto set his hand & seal the day & year first above written.

xxxxxxxxxhis
Alexander X McPherson
xxxxxxxxmark

Sign'd Seal'd & deliveredxxxxxxxxxxxxSt. No Carolina
in presence ofxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxCumberland County Jan Term 1784xx
Robt McPherson [probably the Robert McPherson of Anson County, NC]
John McPherson
Neill Buie x

The above prov'd by the oath of Neill Buie & ordered to be recorded. W. Rand Clk.

[The following deed illustrates the connection and close proximity between Old John McPherson and the family of his son-in-law John Patterson, and the Munroe and McGill families of Cumberland County into which three of his children married. Owing to the wording of this deed Daniel Patterson probably sold this property once he came of legal age. Daniel was born about 1760.]

Daniel Patterson to John McKay, 21 August 1782, Cumberland County

This Indenture made the 21st Augt 1782 between Daniel Patterson of the State of No Carolina of County of Cumberland planter of the one part, and John McKay of the State and County aforesd planter of the other part, Whereas the sd Danl Patterson the oldest son and heir at law of John Patterson decd, became lawfully seized and posefsed of and in a certain tracts or parcells of lands containing 400 acres on four different surveys, first 226 acres it being the one half of 452 acres of land patented by John Rufsell, on the S.W. side of the N.W. River about three or four miles above the mouth of Crofs Creek, secondly 74 acres patented by Soloman Hughs, begining at a water oak at the river being the upper corner of John Rufsells land, thence N. 85 W. 198 poles to a stake in Saml Swanns lower line, thence by sd Swann's lower line N. 50 E. 168 poles to black oak on the river bank, thence down the various courses of the river to the first station, thirdly 50 acres patented by the sd John Patterson deceased on the W. side of Cape Fear river begining at a pine in Danl McGills back line, thence N. 215 W. 89 poles to a pine, thence S. 215 W. 89 poles to a pine, thence S. 45 E. 89 poles to a pine, thence N. 435 E. to the begining, fourthly 50 acres patented by the aforesd John Patterson on the long branch of Crofs Creek, begining at a pine on the hill side near the top thereof E. side of sd branch, deemed near McPherson's line, and running thence N. 22 chins & 37 links, thence W. 22 chains & 37 links, thence S. 22 chains & 37 links, then direct to the begining. Now this Indenture witnefseth, that the sd Danl Patterson for and in consideration... [much legalese for the benefit of John McKay].

xxxxxxxxx
X Danl. Patterson {seal}
xxxxxxxx

Sign'd Seal'd & deliveredxxxxxxxxxxxxState of No Carolina
in presence ofxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxCumberland County }April Term 1784xx
Patrick Munroe
xxxxxxxx x his
Alexander V McDugal
xxxxxxx x mark

The above deed acknowledged by Daniel Patterson and admitted to record. W. Rand Clk.

Jefse Newbary to John McFerson, 9 May 1783, Cumberland County [This is John McPherson who died in 1823, husband of Mary McPherson of Cumberland County, parents of John Q. McPherson of Anson County and Daniel McPherson of Blounts Creek in Cumberland County. John Q. McPherson married Mary Slaughter.]

No. Carolina
Bladen County}
To all to whom these Presents shall Come I Jefse Newbary of State and County above planter send Greeting — Know Ye that I the said Jefse Newbary in Consideration of the sum of sixty one pounds Ten Shillings specie of the aforesaid state to me in hand paid or secured to be paid at or before the unsealing and Delivery of these presents by John McFerson of Cumberland County in the aforesaid State the receipt whereof is hereby acknowledged and my self to be therewith fully Satisfied Content & paid & of every part and Parcel therof & hereby do fully freely & absolutely aquit exonerate & forever discharge the John McFerson his heirs and afsigns by these presents have Given Granted Bargained alliened enfoefed Convey & Confirm unto the said John McFerson his heirs or afsigns & do by these presents Give grant bargain Sell Alien enfeof Convey Confirm afsign and Set over unto the aforesaid John McFerson his heirs Excr Admrs or Afsigns a tract or parcel of Land in Cumberland County & State aforesaid Lying in Blounts [Creek] SW of the No W River Begining at a hickory William Rusels begining Corner being a Third Corner in Ann Nefsfields patent and Runs thence No75 E 80 Chs to or near [William] Jordans line then Near or with it No15 W40 Chs then So75 W80 Chs then with the patent line direct to the begining Containing three hundred & twenty acres by estimation be the same more of lefs it being the __ or lower half of a tract of land patentted by Ann Nefsfield for 640 acres which Pattent bears Date 5th of April 1767 & is recorded in the Secrataries office in book No 13 Now the aforesaid Land or Moety or 320 acres was conveyed by the aforesaid Ann Nefsfield and her present husband Robt Cochran [to?] John Newbary Deceased by deed bearing date the 11 day of September 1771 and recorded January Court 1775 and registered in the registers office in Cumberland County in book F folio 300 the aforesaid John Newbary dying without any will or devise of his lands or estate the aforewsaid 320 acres naturally descending to me do hereby convey the same to him the said John McFerson his heirs & afsigns Forever to have and to hold the aforesaid land and premises all its priviledges & appertenances To him the said John McFerson his heirs & afsigns forever to the only proper use benefit & behoof of him the said John McFerson his heirs & afsigns forever and that free and Cleare of all Incumbrances Whatsoever except the publick rents duties which shall accrue or become due thereon to be paid by the said John McFerson his heirs Excr Admrs or Afsigns forever and further I the said Jefse Newbary the said tract or parcel of land of 320 acres with its priviledges and appertenances unto the said John McFerson his heirs & afsigns shall and will by these presents forever warrant and Defend against me my heirs Excr Admrs or Afsigns and against all and every person and persons whatsoever I further oblige my self my heirs Excr Admrs at any time or times at the Instants regarding Costs and Charges in the law of him the said John McFerson his heirs or afsigns To sign seal and deliver any such other deed or deeds for the better Conveyence of the premises aforesaid to Him the said John McFerson his heirs or afsigns as by the said John McFerson his heirs or afsigns or by his or there councel learned in the law shall or may be Reasonably devised advised or required_IN Witnefs whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this 9th day of May in the year of our Lord Christ one thousand seven hundred and eighty three and in the seventh Year of our American Independence —
Jefse Newbary his x mark {seal}
Signed Sealed and Delivered
In the presents of us}

John Newbary

xxxxxxxxxhis
Alexander X McFerson
xxxxxxxxmark

No. Carolina Cumberland County July Court 1783 Then was the Execution of this Deed in open Court in due Form of Law proved by the Oath of Alexander McFerson and admited to record Test W. Rand

Duncan Campbell to grandson John Campbell , 8 Sept 1783, Bladen County [I believe this Duncan Campbell is one of the Campbells of the Argyll Colony or is a son of one of them.]

Duncan Campbell
to John Campbell } Know all Men by These presents that I Duncan Campbell of Bladen County and State of North Carolina, in consideration of the Natural love and affection which I have and bear unto my grandson John Campbell causes me to grant unto the said John Campbell one hundred and fifty acres of Land in Cumberland County lying on the North side of Cape fear River joyning Thomas Rutherfords land on the upper side and Turkle McNeill on the lower side to have and to hold and enjoy all the said land unto the said John Campbell his executrs adminrs or afsigns to the only proper use of the said John Campbell his Executors, administrators forever, and I the said Duncan Campbell the said land and premises to the said John Campbell his Executors adminrs and afsigns against me the said Duncan Campbell my exectrs adminrs and afsigns and all every other person or persons whatsoever shall and Will Warrant forever defend by these presents of all and singular which said land and premises I the said Duncan Campbell have put the siad John Campbell in full pofsefsion of the said land firmly by these presents sealed with my seal and dated this 8th day of September in the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred & eighty three.
signed Seal'd & deliver'd
in presence of us ccccccccccccccccccccccccccccccccccccccccchis
John McPherson ccccccccccccccccccccccccccccccccccDuncan 0 Campbell
his cccccccccccccccccccccccccccccccccccccccccccccccccccccmark

mark
Neill Smith

Cumberld County July Term 1789 then was this deed proved by Neill Smith and admitted to Record. John Ingram CC

Neil McCraney to Alexander McFarson, Junr., 1 January 1785, Cumberland County

This Indenture made the first day of January 1785 between Alexander McFarson [sic] Junr of the State of North Carolina and Cumberland County of the one part and Neil McCrany of the same County and State of the other part Witnefseth that for and in consideration of the sum of Thirty pounds Lawfull money of the above Mentioned state in hand paid by the above said Alexander McFarson Junr unto the aforesaid Neil McCrany the receipt for said sum of thirty ... unto the aforesaid Alexander McFarson Junr to him and his Heirs and afsigns forever a certain Tract or piece of land situated near Beaver Creek the water of little Rockfish Begining at a hickory running East 22 chains thirty six links to a black jack thence South forty four Chains Seventy five links to a stake thence West 72 chain thirty six links to a pine thence ___ tract to the first place of begining Containing one Hundred acres granted by letter pattent unto the above mentioned Neil McCrany and dated in October 1780 as on record will more fully appear... [much legalese] ..the 9th year of American Independence 1785.

Neil McCrany {seal}

Sealed and delivered
in presence of us
William McPherson [sic]
xxxxxhis
Archd X Black
xxxxmark

North Carolina
Cumberland County } January Term 1785– Then was this deed acknowd by N McCraney & adm'd to Record. W Rand CC

Duncan Ochiltree to Lewis McPherson & William Campbell, 14 July 1785, Cumberland County

This Indenture made this fourteenth day of July in the year of our Lord one Thousand Seven hundred and eighty five, between Duncan Ochiltree and his wife of the one part, and Lewis McPherson & William Campbell of the other part Witnefseth that the said duncan Ochiltree and his wife for and in consideration of the sum of one hundred and fifty pounds ten shillings and seven pence North Carolina Currency to him in hand paid by William Campbell and Lewis McPherson of Wilmington in Newhanover County and state aforesaid Merchants the receipt whereof is hereby acknowledged. Have bargained sold and conveyed and by these presents do bargain sell and convey unto the said William Campbell and Lewis McPherson all that lott of land lying in Fayetteville bounding on the North side of the main street fronting one hundred and five feet, and running back four hundred and Twenty feet to the Road on or near the bank of the creek within Ten yards of the Cold Spring – fronting to the Westward on a fifty foot street. Together with all houses out houses erections edifices buildings and improvements there, and [much legalese]....

xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxDuncan Ochiltree {seal}
Sealed and delivered in presence of
Ja Burges

North Carolina
Cumberland County }October Term 1785 – Then was this deed acknowd by James Burges and ordered to record. W Rand CC

John Cumbo to Ronald McPharison, Junr., 11 January 1786, Bladen County

From "Abstracts of Early Deeds of Bladen County", Vol. II, page 35:

"p - 340. 11 Jan 1786. John Cumbo to Ronald McPharison [Randal McPherson]. £18, 100 acres on E side of Great Marsh below Jones's Ford. Wit: Henry Messer, Neill McMillan. Feb Term 1787. John White Clk."

James Dyer to Alexander McPherson, 7 July 1786, Cumberland County

This Indenture made the seventh day of July in the year of our Lord God one thousand seven hundred and Eighty six between Alexander McPherson Junr of the state of North Carolina and Cumberland county of the one part and James Dyer of the same County and State of the other Part Witnefseth that for and in consideration of the sum of ten pounds lawful money of the above mentioned State in hand paid by the above said Alexander McPherson Junr unto the aforesaid James Dyer the receipt of said sum of Ten Pounds the above said James Dyer doth hereby acknowledge and therfore doth release acquit & discharge the said Alexander McPherson Junr his heirs Executors and administrators of he the said James Dyer hath given granted Bargained Sold aliened and confirmed and by the presents doth grant bargain sell alien and confirm acording to the due form of law Make over unto the aforesaid Alexander McPherson Junr to him and his heirs and afsigns forever a certain tract or piece of land situate near Buckhead [Creek] Joining the lands of Alexander McPherson containing Two hundred acres and being in the county of Cumberland aforesaid Beginning at a large red oak running East crofsing Buckhead [Creek] forty four Chains seventy six links to a stake on the hill side thence North forty four Chains seventy five links to a hicory* thence west forty four chain seventy five links to a pine thence direct to the place of Beginning Granted by Letters pattent unto the abovementioned James Dyer and dated the sixth day of November One Thousand Seven hundred and eighty four as on record will more fully appear. To Have and to Hold One hundred acres of the aforesaid Two hundred acres of Land hereby conveyed and singulare other the above mentioned one hundred acrees of land being one half of the above two hundred acres by letters pattent Granted to the above said James Dyer bearing date as aforesaid and hereby bargained and sold and every part and parcel thereof with theirs and every of their appurtenances thereunto belonging unto the above said Alexander McPherson Junr his heirs...[much legalese]....

* along the side of the deed in a one-inch margin is a description of another tract:
The upper part begining at a pine on the west side of Buckhead runing south Twenty-two chains thirty links to a stake between hornton's thence east forty four chains & twenty five links to a pine thence north twenty two chains thirty six links to a stake between horntons thence direct to the place of Begining.

[Note that the grantee is "Alexander McPherson Junr" and that the land is "Joining the land of Alexander McPherson" near Buckhead Creek. Does this mean the land borders his own land, or is it adjacent to the lands of another Alexander McPherson? Alexander McPherson, Sr., Old John's son, lived at the headwaters of Blunt's Creek which is very close to Buckhead Creek. The remainder of the deed is part of two pages that are missing from the microfilm records, i.e., pages 80 and 81. I intend to check the original record books to see if the pages were omitted from the microfilm process.]

Lewis Munro to Alexander Curry, 21 March 1787, Bladen County

From "Abstracts of Early Deeds of Bladen County", Vol. II, page 60:

"p - 571. 21 March 1787. Lewis Munro to Alexander Curry. £60, specie money, 200 acres on W Side of the Great Swamp. Wit: Thomas White, Lewis Glass, Aug Term 1789. John White Clk."

Grant No. 33
State of North Carolina to John McFartion, 12 July 1788

State of North Carolina. No.33
To all to whom these presents shall come Greeting. Know ye That we for and in consideration of the sum of Ten pounds for every hundred acres hereby granted paid into our Treasury by John McFartion have given and granted and by these presents do give and grant unto the said John McFartion a tract of land containing fifty acres lying and being in our County of Robeson East of the Raft Swamp above his own home plantation and between two cypress ponds and two of his other surveys. Beginning at a white oak on the North East side of a pond and runs North sixty degrees East thirty one chains and sixty three links thence South thirty East fifteen chain and Eighty two links thence South sixty west thirty one chain and sixty three links thence a direct line to the beginning. Granted at Fairfield the twelfth day of July in the thirteenth year of our Independence and in the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and eighty eight.

Sam Johnston.
by His Excellys Comd
J. Glasgow
Secretary.

Grant No. 1392
State of North Carolina to John McFartion, 18 May 1789

State of North Carolina. No. 1392
To all to whom these presents shall come Greeting. Know ye That we for and in consideration of the sum of Ten pounds for every hundred acres hereby granted paid into our Treasury by John McFartion have given and granted and by these presents do give and grant unto the said John McFartion a tract of land containing two hundred acres lying and being in our County of Bladen [should read “Robeson”] south west of the great marsh on the North side of the Cypress pond said McFartion lives on. Beginning at a red oak in Johnstons upper line on the pond running south seventy five west sixty seven chains to a stake thence North fifteen west thirty two chain to a stake thence North seventy five East fifty eight chain and forty five links to said Johnstons line, thence with that line direct to the beginning. Granted at Edenton the eighteen day of May in the 13th year of our Independence and in the year of our Lord one throusand seven hundred and eighty nine. Entered June 3rd 1784.

Sam Johnston.
W. Williams D. Sec.

Grant No. 1511
State of North Carolina to John McFartion, 18 May 1789

State of North Carolina. No. 1511
To all to whom these presents shall come Greeting. Know ye That we for and in consideration of the sum of Ten pounds for every hundred acres hereby granted paid into our Treasury by John McFartion have given and granted and by these presents do give and grant unto the said John McFartion a tract of land containing one hundred and fifty acres lying and being in our County of Bladen [this should read 'Robeson' not Bladen] on the North East side of the Raft Swamp. Beginning at a large white oak near a large open pond running North seventy two west to and beyond the Juniper Branch forty chain to a stake thence south eighteen west forty chain to a stake thence south seventy two East to and beyond said Branch forty chains to a stake thcnce north eighteen East forty chain to the beginning. Granted at Edenton the eighteenth day of May in the 13th year of our Independence and in the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and eighty nine. Entered June 3rd 1784.

Sam Johnston.
W. Williams Sec.

John McPherson Deed of Gift to John McPherson, Grandson, July 4, 1789

This Indenture made the fourth day of July in the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and eighty nine between John McPherson of the County of Robeson State of North Carolina Planter of the one part and his Grandson John McPherson in the County and State aforesaid of the other part, Witnesseth that for and in consideration of the love and affection I bear to my Grandson John McPherson in the County and State aforesaid, so give grant, and convey and confirm by these presents his heirs and assigns forever a certain tract of land Containing Two hundred acres situate lying and being in Cumberland County in the State aforesaid in the West side of the No West River Cape Fear _ Beginning at a white oak at John McDuffie’s Corner, thence North 15 W 179 poles to a pine, thence So 75 W 179 poles to a pine then So 15 E 179 pole to a pine, thence No 75 E 179 pole to the Beginning with the appertenances which lying and being and aforesaid with their and every of their rights.... in witness hereof I the said John McPherson has hereunto set my hand and seal the day and year above written.

John McPherson
his

mark

Signed Sealed and Delivered
in presence of
Alex Gunn x
Collin McPherson

[At this time in Fayetteville the decision to make Fayetteville the state’s capital was underway in that city. Perhaps Old John was feeling generous to have land in the state’s capital to give to his McPherson grandsons. My question is: Why do all three deeds to his Cumberland County grandsons describe his grandsons as being "of Robeson County"?]

John McPherson Deed of Gift to John McPherson, Grandson, July 2, 1789

This Indenture made the second day of July in the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and eighty nine between John McPherson of the County of Robeson State of North Carolina Planter of the one part and his Grandson John McPherson in the County and State aforsaid of the other part, Witnesseth that for and in consideration of the love and affection I bear to my Grandson John McPherson in the County and State aforesaid, so give grant, and convey and confirm by these presents his heirs and assigns forever a certain tract of land Containing eighty acres situate lying and being in Cumberland County in the State aforesaid in the North West side of the No Wt River [early name for the northern branch of the Cape Fear River]_ Beginning at a hickory on the river bank thence No 80 Wt 40 chains to a stake, thence No 10 Et 201/2 chain to a pine, thence So 80 Et 40 chains to a stake on the River, thence down the river to the first Station bearing [date] November 17, 1738* with the appertenances situate lying and being as aforesaid with their and every of their rights members and appertanances whatsoever... [deed in very bad condition, barely readable but mostly legalese].... in witness hereof I the said John McPherson has hereunto set my hand and seal the day and year above written.

John McPherson
his

mark

Signed Sealed and Delivered
in presence of
Alex Gunn x
Collin McPherson

[Who bought this piece of land in 1738? Is this a mistake in the clerk's transcription? John McPherson indeed owned a piece of property that lies today in Harnett County, but could he have bought it prior to his arrival in the Carolina province? This needs to be researched. Also, at this time in Fayetteville the decision to make Fayetteville the state’s capital was underway in that city. Perhaps Old John was feeling generous to have land in the state’s capital to give to his McPherson grandsons.]

John McPherson Deed of Gift to John McPherson, Grandson, July 2, 1789

This Indenture made the second day of July in the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and eighty nine between John McPherson of the County of Robeson State of North Carolina planter of the one part and John McPherson his grandson in the County and State aforsaid of the other part, Witnesseth that for and in consideration of the love and affection I bear to my Grandson John McPherson in the County and State aforesaid, so give grant, and convey and confirm by these presents his heirs and assigns forever a certain tract of land Containing eighty acres situate lying and being in Cumberland County in the State of North Carolina on the west side of the North west branch of the Cape Fear River opposite to Brookes Cabbin [John Brooks’s patent dated 1735; source: “Valley of the Scots,” by Malcolm Fowler. The cabin is marked on his deed map in that book.] _ Beginning at a white oak on the side of the branch thence______ [deed badly torn overall] Wt 81 poles to a pine, thence No 10 Et eighty ___ poles to a stake, thence ____ 80 Et 81 poles to a hickory? on the said branch [with?] the various courses ____ to the first Station _____ with the appertenances situate lying and being as aforesaid with their and every of their rights members and appertanances whatsoever... [deed in very bad condition, barely readable but mostly legalese].... in witness hereof I the said John McPherson has hereunto set my hand and seal the day and year above written. xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

John McPherson
his

mark

Signed Sealed and Delivered
in presence of
Alex Gunn x
Collin McPherson

John McPherson Deed of Gift to Duncan McPherson, Grandson, July 2, 1789

This Indenture made the second day of July in the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and eighty nine between John McPherson of the County of Robeson State of North Carolina Planter of the one part and his Duncan McPherson his grandson in the County and State aforesaid of the other part, Witnesseth that for and in consideration of the love and affection I bear to my Grandson Duncan McPherson in the County and State aforesaid, do give grant, and convey and confirm by these presents his heirs and assigns forever a certain tract of land situate lying and being in Cumberland County in the State aforesaid one hundred acres on the main branch of Cross Creek joining Abraham Odam’s now said McPherson’s Land beginning at a pine on the south side of said branch [remainder of deed unreadable]...

John McPherson Deed of Gift to Colin McPherson, Grandson, July 2, 1789

[Colin McPherson of Cumberland County, grandson of Old John McPherson, along with his brothers received an ample deed of gift on this date from his grandfather. Colin's deed of gift is located in the records of the state archives adjacent to all the deeds to grandsons John and Duncan transcribed above, yet all but the very beginning of Colin's deed—especially that part describing his plat and its location—is extremely faded and unreadable. Colin's 1836 Cumberland County estate settlement, however, includes a detailed list of the extensive lands held at his death, totalling 24 deeds for over 3100 acres in the Rockfish area of Cumberland County and along the Cape Fear River. Entry #4 in the list describes Colin's grandfather's deed of gift to him as follows: "A Deed of Gift John McPherson Senr 100 Acres to Colin McPherson Including his late Dwelling." Is this a reference to Old John's late dwelling, or Colin's dwelling at his death in 1835, or—are the dwellings one and the same? Fayetteville historians have written that Colin built his home, 'Colinwood,' in 1790, but his 1789 deed of gift from Old John clearly reads "Colin McPherson of Robeson County," as do all the deeds of gift from Old John to his grandsons written at the same time.

Entry #21 in Colin's property list is possibly a hint at just who Colin's mother's family may have been—it is a deed to Colin from Neill McGill for 100 acres on the Cape Fear River, and it is known that Archibald McGill, an Argyll colonist, had an early grant adjacent to Old John McPherson's there.

It is worth noting here that Old John gave his Cumberland County holdings to his McPhersons grandsons exclusively, and nothing at all to his Patterson, Campbell or Munroe grandsons. Also, at this time in Fayetteville the decision to make Fayetteville the state’s capital was underway in that city. Perhaps Old John was feeling generous to have land in the state’s capital to give to some of his Cumberland County McPherson grandsons.]

John McPherson Deed of Gift to Mary Munroe, Grand Daughter, 6 July 1789

Know all men by these presents that John McPherson of Robeson County State of No Carolina planter for and in consideration of the love and affection I bear to my grand daughter Mary Munroe do give grant convey and confirm a certain negro named Bettey about ten years old which negro I the said John McPherson my heirs executors and administrators shall warrant and forever defend the said negro to the said Mary Munroe her heirs and assigns against all lawfull claims of demands whatsoever to which I set my hand and seal the 6th day of July 1789.

John McPherson
his

mark

Signed Sealed and Delivered
in presence of
Alex Gunn x
Collin McPherson

Robeson County April Term 1790 this deed was duly proved in open court by the oath of Colin McPherson and ordered to be registered.
J. Barnes C.C.

Grant, North Carolina to John Campbell, 26 November 1789

State of North Carolina. No. 1350.
To all to whom these presents shall come Greeting Know Ye that we for and in consideration of the sum of Ten pounds for every hundred acres hereby granted paid into our Treasury by John Campbell have given and granted and by these presents do give and grant unto the said John Campbell a tract of land containing Seventy acres lying and being in our County of Bladen East of Drowning Creek on the south east side of the White Oak Swamp Beginning at a pursimmon tree on the run of said swamp in Mrs Campbells back line and runs North fifty two degrees East twenty three chains thirty four links to a stake thence south thirty eight east thirty chains thence south fifty two west twenty three chains thirty four links to said Mrs Campbells line thence with it direct to the Beginning.
26th day of November in the 14th year of our Independence and in the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and eighty nine.
Sam Johnston

by His Excelly's Comd
J. Glasgow Secretary

Turquil McNeill to Marrin Ferguson, 5 September 1789, Robeson County

State of Robeson County
North Carolina } Know all men by these presents that Turquil McNeill of the County and State aforesaid hath Bargained and sold and by these presents do Bargain Sell and Deliver unto Marrin Ferguson my daughter the wife of James Ferguson of the County and state aforesaid one negro wench named Gudy for the consideration of fifty pounds North [Carolina?] Currency and I the said Turquil McNeill do and shall forever warrant the said negro wench to the aforesaid Marrin Ferguson and James Ferguson to their seed from any person or persons having any right claim or title to the aforesaid negro wench given under my hand and seal this day the fifth of December anno, 1789 –

xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxhisxxxx
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxTurquil "T" McNeill {Seal}
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxmark
Test
Duncan McBride
Duncan McNeill } October Term 1807 This Bill of sale was proved in open Court by the oath of Duncan McNeill and ordered to be registered
R Haills DC

Grant No. 425
State of North Carolina to John McPherson, 20 September 1791

State of North Carolina. No. 425
To all to whom these Presents shall come Greeting: Know ye That we for and in consideration of the sum of Ten pounds for every hundred acres hereby granted paid into our Treasury by John McFartion have given and granted and by these presents do give and grant unto the said Daniel McFartion* a tract of land containing thirty acres lying and being in our County of Robeson on the East side of the Raft Swamp Beginning at a pine in the lower line of his 160 acres and thence south Seventy two degrees East fifteen chains then North Eighteen East twenty chains then North Seventy two west fifteen chains to his line then along that line direct to the Beginning. Dated at Newbern the 20 Day of December in the XVI year of our Independence and in the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and ninety one.

by His Excellys Comd Alex Martin
J. Glasgow Secretary May 23rd 1793

*Old John McPherson died in January 1791. It appears Daniel McPherson became the grantee for land entered and paid for by his elderly father, Old John McPherson who may have been near death at the time it was patented and surveyed, and died before the deed was recorded with the county.

Surveyor's Plat for Peter Dallas, 14 April 1792

This plat represents fifty acres of land in Robeson County west side of Raft Samp. Beginning at a pine about fifty yards west of the Juniper Branch and runs south 55 degrees west 15 chains and 82 links to a stake among three pines at the upper end of the white pond. Then south thirty five East thirty one chains and 63 links. Then north fifty five East fifteen chains and eighty two links. then back to the beginning. Surveyed for Peter Dallas the 14th day of April 1792..

Entered 21st Feb 1792xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxAngus Gilchrist, Surveyor

This plat has been in my family for generations. It is known that the Peter Dallas family lived in the Blackfork near the family of Dugald and Mary McKay, very near Old John McPherson's family. Peter Dallas was in Robeson County as early as 1790. It is believed he immigrated from Scotland shortly before that. His wife's name is lost. Peter was the father of Nancy Dallas McPherson and father-in-law of Alexander McPherson, son of Daniel and Marian McNeill McPherson. There is a Hugh Dallas family in the 1850 census, and Hugh was nearly the same age as Peter. They may have been brothers.

Surveyor's Warrant for Archibald Brown, 17 January 1793

State of NoCarolina
To the surveyer of the County aforesaid
Robeson County
You are hereby Required to survey lay out and measure or Cause to be surveyed Laid out and measured for Arch'd Brown sixty Seven acres of land in said County agreable to his Entry a copy of which is here unto annexed and such survey to be made do You Return to the (?) office according to Law for which this shall be your Warrent Given under my hand the this Twenty second day of April Anno Domini 1793 Neil Brown Esq 22'd Jan 1793
Arch'd Brown Between the Mill Swamp and the Scolding Branch [Scolding Branch was an early name for Richland Swamp]
67 Acres

Laid down by a scale
of 20 Chains to an inch

Surveyed for Archibald Brown sixty seven acres of land in Robeson County on both sides Jobe's Branch Beginning at a Pine near MacNeills line. About 40 yards North of Butlers pond & about 300 yards below the ford of said branch & then due West fourteen chains & twenty four links to a pine. Then North thirty three West thirteen chains to a stake in Neill MacLain's line. Then North thirty five East along his line six chains to a Pine Beg'g. Then North fifty five West with his other line twenty five chains. Then North sixty eight East twenty one chains & fifty links to the corner of Neill Browns Survey. Then South thirty East along that line twenty two chains & thirty seven links to a stake by three small pines the other corner. Then with the other line North sixty East six chains. Thence a direct line to the Beg.g
Febu'y The 19th 1793
Entered
22 Janu'y 1793 xxxxxxxxxxxxxxA.Gilchrist Surveyer

No. 1070
County: Robeson
Name: Brown, Archibald
Acres: 67
Grant No. 1005
Issued 17th Dec. 1794
Warrant No: Entry No: 1172
Entered: 22 Jan. 1793
Book No: 84 Page No: 356
Location: On both sides of Jobes Branch
cover page: Duncan Brown CC Daniel Brown

John Campbell vs John McDonald, 17 January 1793

This Indenture made this seventeenth day of January In the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and ninety three between Joseph Wood Esqr high sheriff of the County of Robeson and State of North Carolina on the one part and John Campbell of the County of Robeson and state aforesaid on the other part Whereas by virtue of an Execution ifsuing from the County Court of Robeson against John McDonald for the sum of twenty pounds & Cost which said sum was recovered by Catherine Campbell as on record may appear [Is this Catherine Campbell John's mother or his wife who was also named Catherine? Just how Catherine "recovered" the £20 is unknown, but for a woman to do so indicates there may have been a close relationship between her and said John McDonald. So, was John's wife a McDonald?]. And Whereas the said Execution was Directed to the said Joseph Wood Esqr high sheriff as aforesaid Commanding him that of the goods Chattels lands and tenements of the said John McDonald he should Cause to be made of the aforesaid sum of twenty pounds & Cost aforesaid to satiffy the said Execution with the Cost thereon and the said Joseph Wood sheriff as aforesaid in pursuance and by virtue of his office and the aforesaid Execution did seize and take into his hands and Custody (no goods or Chattels to be found) a Certain piece or parcel of land situate lying and being in the County of Robeson bounded as follows: West of Big Rockfish joining the county line in three diferent surveys the first forty acres patented by Angus Molloy and the other three surveys Contigious thereto forty of which was Pattented by Jacob Rhodes and fifty acres Patent by the said John McDonald. In all one hundred and thirty acres and the said Joseph Wood sheriff as aforesaid after due advertisement according to law did cause the said piece or parcel of land with all the appurtenances therunto belonging to be put up at publick sale to the highest bidder on the 1st day of October in the year of our lord 1793 at which time and place the aforesaid John Campbell became the last and highest bidder at the sum of six pounds nine shillings for the said lands with the appurtenances thereunto belonging... [much legalese].

in presence of ———————————————Jo. Wood {seal}
Wm. Regan
A. Gilchrist

Robeson County April Term 1794 this Deed was acknowledged in open County and ordered to be Registered. J. Barnes, C.C.

[Eventually Grant No. 1711]
Land Entry Plat for Lewis/William Munroe, Surveyed January 17, 1793

[Document 1]
State of No Carolina Robeson County } To the surveyor of the County aforesaid —

You are hereby Required to Survey Lay out and Admeasure lands to be surveyed laid out and admeasured for Lewis Munroe Twenty acres of Land in said County agreeable to his Entry a copy of which is hereunto annexed and said survey to be made & you return to the secretarys office according to law for which this shall be your warrant given under my hand this Twenty Second day of April Anno Domini 1793 —
Neil Brown E.T.

22d Jany 1793
Lewis Munroe ———} North side of the Great Marsh Joining Absolum Leagets line
[page torn ] acres

________________

[Document 2]
Survey'd for William Munroe twenty acres of land in Robeson County; on the West side of the Gum Branch Beginning at a Poplar in the edge of the branch just by Neill MacEacherns lower line; nearly opposite his improvement, & runs South Sixty five West fourteen chains, then South thirty two East fifteen chains; then north sixty five East fourteen chains; thence a direct line to the Beginning.
Januy the 17th 1795.

Entry No. 1151 —————————Angus Gilchrist
22 Jany 1793

[On the front of the survey plat, its title reads:]

No. 1152
Wm
~~Lewis~~ Munroe [Lewis's name is stricken and "Wm" is written above it.]
20 acres
Jan 22 1793
Returned & paid for
J. Craven.

[The following deed hints at the fate of one of "Shoemaker John" McNeill's daughters, namely Janet. Janet and Catherine McNeill, sisters of Marian McNeill McPherson, are mentioned in the 1790 will of their mother, Mary McNeill, Shoemaker John's widow, but to date nothing is known of the girls' fate. Owing to the location of the land transacted and the persons named in this deed, the Janet Paterson below may be the Janet McNeill who was the daughter of "Shoemaker John", having married a Paterson in the years after her mother's will of 1790. As of now, this is pure speculation. The land granted to William Locklear and its subsequent ownership by this Janet Paterson should be traced to determine which Paterson this Janet married.]

Janet Paterson to Neill McNeill, 29 September 1797, Robeson County, NC

Sold and confirmed by me Janet Paterson of Robeson County and State of North Carolina to Neill McNeill of s