Johannes Messerschmidt (John) was baptized in the Lutheran Church at Ofterdingen Parish, Schwarzwald, Wurttemberg, Germany on 19 Jan 1735 (Christening Records; 1734-1801; Ofterdingen Evangelical Church, Wurttemberg, Germany ;pg 5; FHL film 1457481). His parents are Andreas & Anna Maria (Heyes) Messerschmidt. His Godparents were: Johannes Haug, ropemaker; Anna Maria, Baltus Lutz' wife. He came to Pennsylvania when he was 16 years old with his parents and other family members on the ship, "Nancy" on 16 Sep 1751. Capt. Thomas Coatam from Rotterdam was the Capt. There were 200 passengers but only 76 passengers' names were on the list. His brother, Barnabas was listed among the passengers but he was not probably because he was under age 18. His brother Barnabas was age 19. Women and children's names were not recorded. (Pg 462 Pennsylvania German Pioneers FHL #974.8 F2st 1966 v1.) On pg 436 of the Passenger & Immigration Lists Index it showed: "Andreas Messerschmidt & Hans Bernhart Messerschmidt, n. a.: Philadelphia Pa, 1750 7820 p 256 & 9041 p 463." Both indexes referred to the Passenger list of the ship "Nancy." (PALATINE IMMIGRANT, VOL ix, NO. 2 ) The family was in Pennsylvania in 1757 when his sister, Christina md Johann Casper Hannshell (Hounshell) at Augusta Lutheran Evangelical Church, Providence, Philadelphia, Pa., now Trappe, Montgomery, Pa. Christina or Johann Casper or both were from Westtown Twp., Chester, Pa. (FHL #384544) A Joh. Andreas Messerschmidt of Wurttemberg md Cath. Reiger of Tubingen on 7 Oct 1755 St. Michael's & Zion Church (Record of Penn Marr. Vol II 974.8 v2r). This Johannes Andreas Messerschmidt is a cousin and came from Tailfingen, Wurttemberg, Germany. He was born 16 Jun 1731 to Hans Conrad & Rosina (Hoss) Messerschmid. (pg 78 Town Family Records of Tailfingen FHL Bk # 943 B4do Ser A v 94) In the town record, it was written that he immigrated to USA but no date. John Andrew Messersmith was on the 1769 Proprietary Tax for the City of Philadelphia, Mulberry Ward. Mulberry Ward included from Vine Street South to Mulberry (Arch) Street. (pg 31 FHL #974.811 R4b) On 8 Sep 1788 Matthias Kelley bought at an auction as the highest bidder for 126 pounds a building and lot on the West side of 4th Street from Delaware in the City of Philadelphia. Also a one story building & lot situate and adjoining the above described building and lot. The property and lot belonged to John Andrew Messersmith deceased. John Andrew Messersmith was adm. of the estate along with Catherine Messersmith. John Andrew was most likely the son of Johannes Andreas & Catherine Reiger. (Pg 43 Philadelphia Co., Deeds Film #965345) Johannes Messerschmidt (John) md 1st) Catarina Becker 17 May 1763 Lancaster Co., PA. by Rev. John Casper Stoever of the Lutheran Church. Johannes or Catarina or both were of Derry (Records of Rev. John Casper Stoever Item 8 Pg 69. Early Lutheran Baptisms And Marriages In Southeastern Pennsylvania, index by Elizabeth P. Bentley; 1730-1779; Baltimore, Genealogical Publishing Co., Inc, 1984; pg 69; FHL Book 974.8 K2se; NOTE: Johannes Messerschmidt md Catarina Becker both of Derry twp. Derry twp may be in Hummelstown. It was formed from part of Lancaster Co.). If this is our Johannes, he would have been age 28. We note that Johannes' second daughter was named Katherine. The ages of Johannes' children could fit a marriage of 1763. (Bob Messersmith BobM4383@aol.com 1 Aug 2013 - My Comment:  Rev Stoever married Johannes Messerschmidt and Catharina Becker from Derry Twp, 17 May 1763, so Johannas was probably with the Hounshell's at that time. St.Paul's was near Hummelstown/Hershey, Derry Twp, Dauphin Co.  Sand Hill Rd runs north out of Hershey,Pa. As you both know I live just outside of Hummelstown.) John left Pennsylvania before 1769 with his brother, Barnabas, his sister, Christina & brother-in-John Hounshell. John Hounshell's name is on a petition in Augusta County Court Records in about 1767. The two men's names next to his could be Barnet Smith & John Smith or Messersmith. The petition reads: "To the Worshipful Court of Augusta County the Petition of the Inhabitants of Reedy Creek Humbly Sheweth: That whereas we, your petitioners, for some time past have been debarred settling and improving and cultivating our patent lands on the Western Waters, the reason whereof is best known to our legislators, but by virtue of the late treaty held to the northward, we hope we may, without offense, petition your worships to give orders that there may be alterations and amendments made on the old road leading from Capt. Ingle's Ferry to James Davis's, on the head of the Holston River, and appoint such surveyors as you in your wisdom shall think fit, and your petitions, as in duty bound, will pray. (Signed) Joseph Black, James Holice, John Montgomery, Robt. Montgomery, James Montgomery, George Breckenridge, Alexander Breckenridge, Robert Breckenridge, Robert Campbell, Robert Doack, William Doack, William Sayers, Arthur Campbell, William Davis, James Hays, Samuel Hopes, William Leftwich, Gasper Gender, George Gender, Jacob Kinder, William Phips, John Houncal, Barnet Small, John Smith, John Bets, Robert Buchanan, Robert Davis, Samuel McAdam, James Davis, Nicholas Buchanan, Alex. Buchanan. (p 498 Chronicles of the Scotch-Irish Settlement in Virginia by Lyman Chalkley Vol 1) The paper was found between leaves of Order Bk XI, pg 90. The original record was searched for in the Court records of Augusta Co. in order to look at the names more closely but it was not found. Perhaps after Mr. Chalkley found it, the paper was filed elsewhere. He moved to Virginia before 1771 as that is when he is listed on List 14 of the Tithable List taken in by Walter Crockett from William Sayers to the Head of Holston River in Botetourt Co., Va. His brother-in law John Hownshell is also on the list. It is believed that Barnabas Messersmith, John Messersmith & John Hounshell left Pennsylvania together to come to Virginia. 1771-1773 Tax List, New River Tithables, Mary Kegley; Botetourt Co., Va; List 14 & 26A; FHL Bk 975.5A1 #28. NOTE: By Walter Crockett from William Sayers to the Head of Holston River. 1781-1782 Tithable Lists; Montgomery Co., Va.; 1793-1800 Tax List; Montgomery Co., Va;;FHL Bk 975.5773 R4m. He is on List 26 of the 1772 List of Tithables in Capt. Doacks & "my own Company" taken in by Walter Crockett. He and his brother, Barnabas are on this list. He and Barnabas are both on Capt. Doak's list of Tithables for 1773 (New River Tithables 1770-1773 by Mary B. Kegley FHL #975.5 A1 #28 and on pg 94 Early Adventurers by Mary Kegley.) He was also in the Militia of Montgomery Co., Va; 1781; Thomas Ingle's Co; FHL Bk 975.5 A1 #55; NOTE: over 50 years old. On 16 Dec 1773 John, his brother Barnabas, (Barney) and his brother-in-law John Hounshell received land from the Loyal Company grant. See the survey below for John. Barney's land was located on both sides of the So. Fork of Reed Creek a branch of New River corner to John Hounshedel (Hounshell) From the description of the land, John, Barney & John Hounshell lived near each other. Barney sold his land to Andrew Houshell 21 Jul 1803. On 3 Jun 1774 a Survey was made for John Messersmith for 239 Acres of Land by Virtue of the Order of Council made 16 Dec 1773 and as part of the Loyal Company Grant lying in Fincastle County on a branch of the South Fork of Reed Creek and bounded as follows "beginning at a stake near a large white oak - corner to John Ounshall (Hounshell) running thence 37 W 55 poles to a Spanish oak etc. Survey taken by Robert Doack & Wm. Preston (Va State Land Office Survey No. 34 pg 296 Film 29576 & Montgomery Co. Plott Bk A) with an endorsement dated 12 Aug 1797 "Sir, I have for a valuable consideration sold and conveyed to Henry Lambert all my right title and claim to a certain survey of Land made in my name adjoining a Tract of Land known by the name of Paxton's Glade and the land formerly John Houndshells, you will please there receive the money due to the Company for said land and let said Lambert have the pattent in his name. And oblige your Humble servant" s/ John Mercersmith X his mark Teste William Ward Ang Katering Land in Wythe (Virginia Land Office Surveys p 296 Film 32618) John Ounshall (Hounshell) md John Messersmith's sister Christina. The land known as Paxton's Glade is also mentioned in the 1783 survey of the St. Paul Lutheran Church. (Survey Bk B p 278 Montgomery Co., Va) He and his brother, Barnabas, are on the Muster roll of Robert Doack's Company of Militia of companies defending the frontier in Lord Dunmore's war dated 2 Jun 1774 in Fincastle Co., Va. (Virginia Colonia Militia 1651-1776 FHL 975.5 M2c) Lord Dunmore's War was a war from 1773 to 1774 between the Colony of Virginia and the Indian nations of the Shawnee and Mingo. Lord Dunmore's War; and 975.5 M23 v-pg 399; (Dunmore's War or Lord Dunmore's War) Survey; 1774; Grant-Loyal Company, dated 16 Dec 1773, Fincastle Co., Va-Co Fork of Reed Creek; Va State Land Office Survey No. 34, pg 296; FHL Film 29586; NOTE: 239 Acres. Hugh O'Gullion was killed at the Battle of Point Pleasant 10 Oct 1774 (Chalkley, II p 134) and administration was granted at a Court held for Fincastle Co Va. on 7 Feb 1775 to John O' Gullion with John Messersmith and Arnold Shell as sureties. (Will Bk B p 17 & 18 Montgomery Co., Va. FHL Film #32608 - Because Fincastle Co., was discontinued, the records are in Montgomery Co) On 7 Feb 1775 in Fincastle Co. it was ordered that William Doak, Samuel Doak, Jasper Kinder & John Messersmith or any three of them who being first do appraise the personal estate &...if any of Hugh O'Gullion deceased & return the appraisement to the next court (Bk 2 p 115 Montgomery Court Records) The appraisal of Hugh O'Gullion's estate was recorded 2 May 1775 with appraisers Samuel Doak, Casper Gender, John Mercersmith (Messersmith). (Bk B p 26 Montgomery Co., Va & pg 99 Early Adventurers on the Western Waters by Mary B. Kegley) We learn later on in 1799 the names of Hugh O'Gullion's (Gullion) children: John Gullion, Barney Gullion, Duncan Gullion, Nancy Gullion (wife of John Messersmith), Esther Gullion (wife of Patrick Johnston), Polly Gullion (wife of Isaac Hopkins) 1775 John O'Gullion was administrator of Hugh Gullion's estate on 7 Feb 1775. He would have been born about 1752 if he was 21 when he was appointed administrator ( Will Bk B p 17, 18 26 Fincastle Co., Va Film 32608 & BK 2 Court Orders Fincastle Co., Va p 115) The administration bond reads: "Know all men by these presents that we John O'Gullion, John Messersmith, and Arnold Shell are held and firmly bound unto John Montgomery, Stephen Trigg, Walter Cockill and James McGavock gentlemen Justices of the County of Fincastle County now selling (?) in the sum of four hundred pounds to the payment where of well and truly to be made to the said Justices and there superiors (?) we bind ourselves and each of our heirs, Executors and Administrators jointly and severally firmly by these presents sealed with our seals and dated this seventh day of February 1775 and the 15th year of the reign of our Sovereign lord George the third.. The condition of this obligation is such that if the above bound John O'Gullion administrator of all the goods, chattles, and credits of Hugh O'Gullion dec do make or cause to be made a bond and perfect inventory of all & singular the goods, chattles and credit of this sd deceased which have or shall come to the hands, possession, or knowledge of the said John O'Gullion or unto the hands or possession of any other persons or person for John O'Gullion and the same hands do exhibit or cause to be exhibit unto the County Court of Fincastle at such time as he shall be thereunto required by the said court and the same goods and credits and all other good chattles and credits of the said deceased at the time of his death which at any time after shall borne to the hands or possession of the said John O'Gullion or unto the hands of any other person or persons for him do well and truly administor according to law and further do make a just and true account of his actings and doings therein when thereto required by the said court and the rest and residue of the said goods, chattles and credits which shall be found remaining upon this said administration account, the said first examined and allowed by the Justices of the court for the time being shall deliver and pay unto such persons or person respectively or the said Justices by their orders or judgement shall direct pursuant to the laws of that case made and provided and if it shall hereafter appear that any last will and testament was made by the said deceased and the Executor or Executors therein do Exhibit the same unto the said court making request to have it allowed and approved accordingly if the said John O;Gullion being thereunto required to render and deliver up his letters of administration (Approbation of such testament being had & made in the said Court) then this obligation to be void and of non effect or else it remain in full force and virtue. s/ John O'Gullion, John Messersmith & Arnold Shell. Court held 7 Feb 1775. The administration of the estate of Hugh O'Gullion dec. is granted John O'Gullion he having with conventry entered into & acknowledged this bond according to law." Fincastle County was discontinued in 1777. The County of Montgomery was formed from Fincastle, Botetourt & Pulaski in 1776 and John Messersmith was living here in that year. He is on the list of Thomas Ingle's Co. of Militia dated 7 Apr 1781 in Montgomery Co. He is among those over 50 years old. According to our records he would have been age 46. (Militia of Montgomery Co. FHL #975.5 A1 #55) He is on the 1781 Tithable List of John Taylor in Montgomery Co. as John MercerSmith (Early Adventurers on the Western Waters p 221 by Mary B. Kegley) He is on the 1782 Tax List of Montgomery Co., Va with 1 Tithe, 6 horses & 16 cattle and land. Barnabas, his brother is also on this list. (pg 975.5 R4s) While living in Montgomery Co., Va, two of his daughters were married between June & Nov 1782. Memorandum of couples married since June Court 1782 until November Court 1782 by me Jno. George Shride, D. D. (including residences) John Petty and Katherance Messersmith, Rich Valley - Daniel (Paul) Pessinger and Susanna Messersmith, Rich Valley. (Montgomery Co. Marriages-Early Adventurers on the Western Waters p 145 by Mary B. Kegley) Rich Valley was located about 25 miles from Evansham. To get to Evansham one had to travel over the mountain. Evansham was the seat of the County Courthouse until renamed Wythville. On 20 Sep 1782 as John Mercersmith he received a Commissioner's Certificate for 400 A of land on North Fork of the Holston River which he had settled 1776 (Land Records of Fincastle & Montgomery Co. p 141 & Early Adventurers On the Western Waters pp 66, 113, 152 by Mary B. Kegley) This is the same land referred to in a survey which was made for John MesserSmith on 22 Sep 1782 for 314 Acres of land in Montgomery Co., Va:. Surveyed for John MesserSmith 314 acres of land by Virtue of an entry made the 22nd Day of Sep 1782 on a Certificate from the Commissioners for the District of Washington & Montgomery Counties for 400 Acres & dated the 21st of Sep 1782 lying in Montgomery County on the North fork of Holsten river bounded as follows Viz. Beginning at 4 white oak Saplins in the bend of a creek & runneth N 16 W 130 poles to 2 w oaks & maple near the line branch S 54 W 80 to a double & 2 single Wt oaks by a Dry hollow S 4 W 114 to 4 white oaks on the end of a ridge nigh the corner of the field on the S Side S 67 W 108 to 3 buckeyes by a branch 6 22 W 66 to 4 white oaks on the side of a ridge S 64 W 238 to a sugar tree black oak & ash near Wilson's line S 16 E 122 to a double maple & linn saplin by a Creek......March 29th 1787. s/o J Preston Jermiah Bell. In the margin is written Rec'd 15 Feb 7 1792 Grant issued 17 Jul 1793. (Virginia Land Office Surveys upon which Grants Issued FHL # 29568 pg 563) On 22 Oct 1782 one of his neighbors is Jacob Bougher who had 100 A of land on both sides of North Fork of Holston and joining the claim of John Messersmith (Land Records of Fincastle & Montgomery Co. p 159 & Early Adventurers on the Western Waters p 73 by Mary B. Kegley) On 20 Jan 1783 one of his neighbors was Duncan Gullion who had 80 A joining old Syphers and John Messersmith (Land Records of Fincastle & Montgomery Co p 198) In 1783 Duncan Gullion, assignee of Walter Crockett, attorney for James Clark, treasury warrant, 20 acres between Jacob Kittering and Patrick Johnson on the Big Road (withdrawn); also 125 acres on Pine Run, branch of Reed Creek joining Charles Fullen and Barney M Smith (Messersmith); also 80 acres joining old Syphers and John Messersmith (withdrawn) (Pg 87 Early Adventurers on the Western Waters by Mary B. Kegley 975.57 H2kv2) He had 500 A land surveyed 20 Jan 1783 in Montgomery Co. It was located head waters of Walkers Creek near land of John Henderson dec'd. (pg 169 Record of Surveys). The John Messersmith family probably attended church at the St. Paul Lutheran Church. In 1783, 100 acres of land was surveyed for the congregation in Montgomery Co. The representatives of the Church were Martin Kimberlin, Michael Staffey, Michael Wampler and John Phillippey, Elders. The land adjoined Heinrich Lambert, Godfree Comfree and Paxton's Glade. (p i St. Paul Lutheran Church, Wythe Co., Va: Annotated Baptismal Records by Mary B. Kegley. In 1774 John had 239 acres of his land surveyed and it adjoined land known as Paxton's Glade. This land he sold to Henry Lambert in 1797. 30 Mar 1787 John Messersmith (by right of settlement) had 314 Acres of land surveyed on North Fork of Holston adjacent to Willson in Montgomery Co. (Survey Bk D p 551 FHL 975.5785 R42 pg 65) In the Virginia Land Surveys p 563 it was stated this 314 Acres was part of 400A by Certificate dated 22 Sep 1782 from Commissioners for the District of Washington & Montgomery Co. In the margin was a notation that John Messersmith Rec'd 15 Feb 1792 Grant issued 17 Jul 1793) On 12 Sep 1789. Paul Pepsinger had 154 acres surveyed which was located on North Fork Holston adjacent to John Messersmith and James Willson in Montgomery Co., Va (pg 548 Survey Bk D Montgomery Co., Va FHL 975.5785 R42s p 65) This is probably John's son-in-law who married Susanna). Wythe Co., Va. was created from Montgomery Co. in 1789 from an area of 479 square miles. It was named in honor of George Wythe, signer of the Declaration of Independence. Rich lead deposits were discovered on the banks of New River and mines supplied lead for the patriots in the Revolutionary War. The current community of Wytheville became the county seat under the name of Evansham. It was incorporate in 1839 as Wytheville. 30 Nov 1790 John Stroup was examined on suspicion of killing Paul Pessinger (husband of Susanna). Witnesses were examined and John Stroup was acquitted because the killing was judged in self defense. (Wythe Co., Va Court Orders pg 39 Film 34243) Wonder if Susanna md Phillip Harkerader after Paul was killed. Phillip was administrator of Paul's estate and both Phillip Harkerader and Susanna Harkerader bought items from Paul's estate. Phillip Harkerader lived neighbors to Barnabas Messersmith in Rich Valley. John & Godfrey Messersmith are listed on List B of Taxpayers dated 27 Feb 1790 in Montgomery Co., Va. Barny Messersmith is on the Taxpayer list dated 6 Mar 1790 of Montgomery Co., Va. John's name continues to be listed on tax lists 1793, 1795, 1796, 1797, 1798 & 1800 of Montgomery Co., Va. On 17 Jul 1793 John received 314 Acres by Letter Patent on the No. Fk of Holston river beginning in the bend of a Creek in Montgomery Co., Va. (Commonwealth Patents & Warrants Montgomery Co., Va pg 707 Film 29314) This 314 A was surveyed for John MesserSmith "by virtue of an entry made the 22 day of Sep 1782 On a Certificate from the commissioners for the District of Washington & Montgomery Counties for 400 acres dated 21 Sep 1782. Lying in Montgomery Co. on the North fork of Holston river. The land was near Wilson's line. In the margin of the Survey record it is written "John MesserSmith 314 Acres land Montgomery County Rec'd 15 Feb 1792 Grant issued 17 Jul 1793." (pg 563 Virginia Land Office Surveys upon which Grants issued Film #29568) This land was sold to Godfrey, Peter & Andrew Messersmith 23 Apr 1795 (DB 1 p 254 Wythe Co., Va. This land was located in Rich Valley. Rich Valley was located about 24 miles from Evansham, Va. On a chart of Tax Lists for Wythe Co. during the years 1793-1800. John is listed 1793 2B; 1795 1G; 1796 1H; 1797 1J; 1798 1L; 1800 1Q. Other Messersmiths listed are Godfrey M. Smith Messersmith, Henry Messersmith 1793 1B (The original Tax list shows Barny instead of Henry); Andrew M. Smith Messersmith; Barney Messersmith, Barney Messersmith; Peter M. Smith Messorsmith. (FHL 975.5773 R4m) 27 Nov 1794 George Pickett lives near John Messersmith: George Pickett. 75,000 acres. 7,000 acres of prior claim. Surveyed Nov. 27, 1794, recorded in Wythe Co. Survey Bk 1 p 136. (k) near line of John Buckhannan, in a line of division between Wythe and Washington Counties. (l) James Wilson's land (m) near John Messersmith's. (n) Joseph Hick's land, (o) top of ridge between Burkes Garden and Elkin's mill on Wolf Creek. (pg 137 Archives of the Pioneers of Tazewell Co.,, Va. by Netti-Schreiner FHL #975.576 N2s (Wythe Co. Survey Bk 1 p 136) 23 Apr 1795 John sold 314 A of land to Godfrey Messersmith, Peter Messersmith & Andrew Messersmith. "This Indenture made the twenty three day of April in the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and Ninty five between John Messersmith of the County of Wythe and State of Virginia of the one part and Godfrey Messersmith, Peter Messersmith and Andrew Messersmith of the County and State aforesaid of the other part. Witnesseth that for in Consideration of the sum of one hundred pounds had in hand paid by the Said Godfrey, Peter and Andrew Messersmith to the said John Messersmith hath granted bargained and sold by these presents do give grant bargain sell and confirm unto said Godfrey Messersmith, Peter Messersmith and Andrew Messersmith are for certain tract or parcel of land lying and being in the County of Wythe formerly Montgomery on the North fork of Holston containing three hundred and fourteen acres and bounded as follows viz beginning at four white oak sapling on the bend of a creek and running North sixteen degrees west one hundred and thirty poles to two white oaks and a maple near the pine branch south fifty four degrees west eighty poles to a double and single white oak by a dry hollow south four degrees west one hundred and eighty poles to three buckeyes by a branch south seventy eight degrees west sixty six poles to four White oaks on the side of a ridge South Sixty four degrees West Two hundred and thirty Eight poles to a Sugar tree a black oak and an ash near Wilson's line South sixteen degrees East one hundred and seventy two poles to a double maple and sapling by a Creek south Seventy Eight degrees East twenty four poles crossing the Creek to two white oaks and two sugar trees on the line of a Ridge North forty Eight degrees East five hundred and thirty poles to the Beginning together with all appurtenances to have and to hold the said Tract or parcel of Land to the only proper use benefit of them the said Godfrey Messersmith, Peter Messersmith and Andrew Messersmith and their heirs forever free and clear of and from all other gifts grants bargains sales dower right and titles of dower claim or demand whatsoever and the said John Messersmith for himself and his heirs the said tract or parcel of land with the appurtenances unto the said Godfrey Messersmith, Peter Messersmith and Andrew Messersmith and their heirs forever shall and will warrant and forever defend by these presents in Witness Whereof the said John Messersmith hath hereunto set his hand and affixed his seal the day and year first above written. s/ John Messersmith X his mark Sealed and acknowledged in presents Jacob Spangle (?), John Alder, Morgonett Spangle & William Ward." (DB 1 pp 254-5 Wythe Co., Va) Peter Messersmith had 100 A of land surveyed 3 Jun 1795 "by virtue of an entry dated Nov 1792 in the name of John Messersmith by him assigned to said Peter as part of a Land Office Treasury warrant for 1498 and N 14718 dated the 4th of November 1782 lying in Wythe County on the Waters of the North Fork of Holston River, joining John Messersmith's old survey.....corner of sd John Messersmith's land" (Record of Surveys Bk 2 pg 296 FHL #34241) 1795 John Messersmith signs a petition to form Tazewell Co., Va. along with Godfrey Messersmith, Peter Messersmith, Barnabas Messersmith. (pg 290 Archives of the Pioneers of Tazewell Co., Va. by Netti-Schreiner FHL #975.576 N2s) In 1797 & 1798 their names again appear on a Petition to Form Tazewell Co. They were inhabitants of Part of Wythe Co. which lies north of Clinch Mountains. Barnabas Messersmith's name is not on the list of 1797-1798 (Record of Surveys Bk 2 pg 296 FHL # 34241) He md. 2nd) Nancy (O’Gullion) Flin on 10 Jun 1796 Wythe Co., VA. The marriage was of John Messersmith to Nancy Flin. The minister was Andrew Baker. (Wythe Co. Marriages compiled by John Vogt & T. William Kethley, Jr pg 79) Her maiden is Gullion or O'Gullion according to a lawsuit, Gullion vs Fulton dated 1799 in Wythe Co., VA. John Messersmith was 64 years old when he and Nancy were married. Nancy (Agnes) O'Gullion was probably born abt 1750. She was probably 15 years younger than John the father of Godfrey, Peter, Andrew & Barnabas, Jr. It is not unreasonable for a woman to marry a man 15 years her senior. On 10 Oct 1795/6 William Ward, John Hounshell, Andrew Hounshell, Nancy MSmith, Esther Johnston provided two days in Court (Wythe Co., VA. Order Book 1795-1796 Pg 13 (Wythe Co., Va Film 34243) Settlement of Land Dispute; 1799-1808; Wythe Co., Va, Scotch Irish Settlement of Va, Lyman Chalkley; pg 134; FHL Bk; NOTE: Maiden name O'Gullion. A David Flin was on Personal Property Tax List "A" for 5 Mar 1790 in Montgomery Co., Va. (975.5785 R42s) He may have been Nancy's first husband. Barny & John Gullion are also on this list for Mar 1790 & Duncan Gullion is on the list for Apr 1.1790. David Flin is again shown on March 5 1790 on Locating Residences of Taxpayers (Nick's Cr., Bear Cr. on Middle Fk of Holston & head and south side of Reed Cr., Cripple Cr., Paxton Glade) Barney Gullion, John, Gullion, Andrew Houndshell, John Hounshell, Sr., Peter Mercer are also on this list. In trying to establish an age for a younger John Messersmith if there was one, he might have been age 25 when married to Nancy Flin in 1796 and his birth would be approximately 1771. It is believed he would have appeared with the rest of the Messersmiths as Taxpayers in 1790, yet there is only one John Messersmith. It is questionable if there was more than one John Messersmith. Nancy O'Gullion Flynn (Flin) Messersmith is also known as Agnes She appeared as a witness as Agnes Flinn along with John Gullion, Mary Wyrick for Duncan Gullion in a court case in Wythe Co., Va in 1790 (Minute Bk Wythe Co., Va) On 6 Aug 1797 two of John Messersmith's grandchildren were baptized in the St. Paul Lutheran Church. Catherine b 4 Apr 1797 daughter of Godfrey Messerschmidt & Mary was baptized 6 Aug 1797 - sponsors John Hottel (Huddle) & wife. Sarah b 8 Jul 1796 daughter of Andreas Messerschmidt & Elizabeth was baptized 6 Aug 1797 - sponsor Madalena Gunter (Kinder). On 12 Aug 1797 as John Mercersmith he sold to Henry Lambert 239 A of land which he received 16 Dec 1773 by a grant from the Loyal Company. The land is now located in Wythe County. This land was surveyed for John Mercersmith 3 Jun 1774 and was located in Fincastle County on a branch of the south fork of Reed Creek. (Pg 296 Va State Land Office Survey No. 34 Film 29576) (Early Adventurers On the Western Waters p 36 by Mary Kegley) Henry Lambert's land adjoined the St. Paul's Lutheran Church property near Rural Retreat and was surveyed for John Messersmith who gave up the claim. The grant issued to Lambert in 1797 (Glimpses of Wythe Co. p 54 by Kegley) On 17 Aug 1797 his son, Barnabas md Elisabeth Powel by John Stanger min. John Stanger was a Lutheran preacher who served in the St. Paul Lutheran Church. (pg 78 Wythe Co. Marriages compiled by John Vogt & T. William Kethley, Jr.) In a lawsuit, Gullion vs. Fulton in Wythe Co., Va. dated 1799 and completed in 1808 or later, it mentions Nancy (Gullion) as wife of John Messersmith. "In 1783 Hugh Fulton, a deputy surveyor, agreed to get John Gullion an entry and warrant for a tract of land that Hugh Gullion (O'Gullion) had lived on in 1774 on the headwaters of Wethers Creek. However, Hugh Fulton refused to convey the land to John Gullion and tried to sell it to others. It seems that John was a Tory (a British Sympathizer) and he had a brother Barney Gullion. On 17 June 1803 the suit was dropped because of John's death. Since he died intestate, the suit was revived on 10 Aug 1803 on the motion of John's brothers and sisters. They included among others, Barney & Duncan Gullion, John Messersmith and Nancy his wife, Patrick Johnson and Esther his wife, and Isaac Hopkins and Polly his wife. Daniel Pierce stated in 1805 that 31 years earlier (1774) Hugh Gullion had raised corn on the land and left what he had to John Gullion before Hugh was killed at the Battle of Point Pleasant on 10 Oct 1774. George Kinder also made a similar statement." (Scotch Irish Settlement of Va. by Chalkley pg 134) Patrick Johnson sold 50 A of land to Jacob Plessing on 6 Mar 1790 and the land was surveyed 24 Oct 1799. The land was located on Reed Creek (Survey Bk 1 p 479) Jacob Plessing (Blessing) was probably a son-in-law of John Messersmith. On the 1800 Tax list A of Virginia are listed John Messersmith, Barny, Sr., Peter, Godfrey, Barney & Andrew. One would think there should have been two John Messersmiths listed if there was a John, Jr. but there is just one. On 9 May 1803 John Messersmith & wife Agnes his wife, Patrick Johnson & Esther, his wife, Barnabas Gullion & Katherine his wife, Duncan Gullion & Peggy his wife of the County of Wythe in the State of Virginia heirs at law of John Gullion who died intestate of the one part & Henry Newman of the other part. For $130.34 land containing 39 & 3/4 A on North side of Reed Creek part of which was granted to John Gullion by patent bearing date 18 Jan 1802 & part of a larger tract of land whereof the said Gullion died possessed formerly the property of Samuel Doak lying on waters of Reed Creek. (Deed Bk 4 p 127 Wythe Co., VA Film 34231) Listed in the 1810 census for Wythe Co., Va are Peter, Godfrey, Barnabas, Sr. and Barnabas Messersmith, Jr. Andrew Messersmith is in Tazewell Co., V. in 1810. It is odd that John Messersmith is not listed in the 1810 census for Wythe as he must have been living here because of the court case dated 25 Apr 1812 below. He may have been living with a close relative and that is why he did not appear at head of a household. He would have been 75 years of age at this time. There is a John Messersmith listed in the 1810 census of Montgomery Co., Va. 10100-20010 Males: 1 under 10, 1 16-26 - Females: 2 under 10, 1 26-45. This could not be John, Sr. as he would be at least 75 years old. This John was probably born in 1784 and the woman in the census with him is probably his wife who is a year older than he is or it could be either his mother or his wife's mother born about 1765.. (p 215 FHL 975.5 x22v). As neighbors to John on this Census is Nicholas Raider & Hezekiah Collins. This is the John Messersmith (age 60) who appears in the 1850 census for Wythe Co., Va. with his wife, Catherine also age 60. The John Messersmith who appeared in the 1850 census probably owned 100 a of land at foot of Cove Mountain on waters of Miller Creek, Wythe Co., Va. on 9 Dec 1841. (Bk 4 Record of Survey p 87 FHL #34242) On 25 Apr 1812 between Barnabas Gullion, Esther Johnston late Esther Gullion, Duncan Gullion and Peggy his wife and John M Smith who intermarried with Nancy Flynn late Nancy Gullion of the County of Wythe Virginia Co-heirs of John Gullion deceased to Hugh Johnston and others the children and heirs of Daniel Johnston deceased of the other part. 120 A on Waters of Reed Creek adjoining land of Michael Brown, Samuel Reader and others. Witnesses James Devon, Jacob Kimberlin, Peter Messersmith, Samuel Doak, Mary Kinder, David Doak. Presented at court 5 Dec 1812 and again 8 Feb 1814. (Wythe Co., VA DB pg 77) 15 Apr 1815 Godfrey & Peter & Dorothy, his wife sell to George Hudson 676 A for $2300 in Rich Valley on North Fk of Holston River. 314 A of which was granted to John Messersmith by letters pattent bearing date of 17 Jul 1793 by him and conveyed to Godfrey & Peter. (This same land was surveyed 29 Mar 1787 for John Messersmith which was part of 400 A by Cert. dated 1782) (Wythe Co., VA DB 6 p 301 FHL #34232) John was still alive in 1815 as there was a court case involving his brother, Barnabas Messersmith and John's son, Barnabas Messersmith, Jr. At one place in questioning one of the witnesses: William Ward had known Barnabas Messersmith, Sr. for upwards of forty years (since 1775) and recollected: "that the defendant (Barnabas, Jr) proposed to the plaintiff (Barnabas, Sr) that he would leave the premises if the plaintiff wished the father of the defendant to have possession (the plaintiff having expressed a wish to that effect) that he would put the outside fences in good repair, that he would sow down a certain quantity of small grain, that he would complete the building of a certain house which he had previously commenced and make it comfortable for the father of the defendant to live in, that he could have nothing further to do with the land during the lifetime of the defendant's father (nor during the lifetime of the plaintiff as well as I can recollect.). The plaintiff would not agree to the proposal, but stated that the conveyance from him to the defendant was admitted to record without his consent and expected on that ground to have it set aside.". It was probably in 1815 that sons Godfrey, Peter & Andrew Messersmith moved their families to Fayette Co., Ind. Godfrey had sold all his land in Wythe by 12 Sep 1815. Andrew sold all his land in Tazewell Co. by 21 Sep 1815. Godfrey had land in Fayette Co. Ind 15 Apr 1816. All three were listed in the 1820 census of Fayette Co., Ind. His son, Barnabas remained in Wythe Co. until the winter of 1825 then moved to Cole Co., Missouri