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Samuel Hensley (1754-1841) and wives Eleanor Elliott and Margaret Crawford of Culpeper and Washington Co., VA

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Special Thanks to Ruthe Muench, Laura Schreibman and others for information shared on this family.

I *think* that Samuel Hensley is my 5 times great uncle, but that’s contingent on him being the brother of my ancestor Larkin Hensley (c1765) who lived near him and was associated with him. However, them being brothers is not proven. There is no doubt they were closely related though.

Samuel Hensley was born in the year 1755 (per Revolutionary War Pension File # S21278), day and month not given. In the Pension Application dated 20 Aug 1834 he listed his age as 79. That puts his birth at ca 1754/1755. However, on the 1840 pensioner's list, his age was 86, or born ca 1753/54. If he was born in 1754, that would reconcile with both records, but not his statement in his Pension. His tombstone shows 19 Aug 1754, though that may have been placed years after his death, but it is a hand carved stone, so pretty old. However it does work.

His age on the 1830 and 1840 census both show him born ca 1750/60 so that works with the above as well.

He was born in Culpeper County, Virginia also per his pension application.

His parents are unproven, but it is clear he is related to William Hensley (c1730s), as he sold land to him and was associated with several of William’s children. That doesn’t prove William is his father though, but I think that is the case.

Samuel Hensley (1754) was also associated with Joseph Hensley (1750/60) and William Hensley (c1765), who in turn were associated with Robert Hensley (1759). Of those, Joseph and Robert are, I believe, sons of William Hensley (c1706-1777) of Culpeper. That William is a father, I believe, of William (1730) who is also the father of William (1765), I believe. Lots of unproven connections there, but I think that’s how it sorts out.

If I have the above figured out correctly, Joseph and Robert are uncles to Samuel. William (c1765) is his brother.

Samuel Hensley moved from his Culpeper home to the frontier of Virginia in 1773 (per Revolutionary War Pension File # S21278). At that time the frontier was all encompassed within Fincastle County. In 1776 (effective 1777) Fincastle was broken up into smaller counties including Washington County which is where Samuel wound up, though he apparently lived across the present day line in Sullivan Co., TN at some point during this time period. However, then, there was no Tennessee yet. The area was technically part of North Carolina, though much of modern Sullivan County was thought to be within Virginia until they figured out the line later on.

According to his pension application Samuel served in the military in the 1774 campaign against the Shawnee Indians. In July 1776 he volunteered for militia duty under Capt Evan Shelby against the Cherokees. Details are given in the pension file. He also served under Capt. Isaac Bledsoe. Witnesses were Elkanah Dulaney and William King. In his pension statement (dated 20 Aug 1834) Samuel stated that he had formerly resided in Sullivan Co., TN, but didn't say when that was. Based on records I've seen it must have been in the Revolutionary War era.

According to other researchers, Samuel Hensley married first to Ellinor Elliott, probably ca 1777 or before (first known child born 8 Mar 1778). I have yet to find any original source document for her maiden name. Is there such a document?

A Samuel Hansley is listed on the 1778 Washington Co., NC (now TN) tax list. (Shared by Ruthe Muench.)

On 16 Mar 1779 the Washington County court ordered Henry Spakr, David Adair, Isaac Bledsoe and Samuel Henslee or any three of them to appraise the estate of David Roberts, deceased.

On 18 Apr 1781 the Washington court ordered Isaac Bledsoe and Samuel Hansley to view the way (for a road) from Mockinson Gap to Capt. Fulkinsons and report at next court.

On 25 Aug 1782 Samuel Hensley had 400 acres surveyed in Rich Valley. He was listed with this land on the tax lists for 1782 and 1786.

On 18 Oct 1782 Samuel Hensley had 372 acres surveyed in Rich Valley. He was listed with this amount on the 1797 tax list, but not on any of the others.

Samuel Hansley was listed on the 1782 tax list in Washington Co., VA in Capt Fulkison’s district with 1 white tithe, 6 horses and 7 cattle. He was also on the land tax list with 400 acres.

Samuel Hensly was listed on the 1783 tax list in Washington Co., VA in Capt James Fulkerson’s district with 1 white tithe, 6 horses and 9 cattle. There was no land tax list for this year.

On 4 Jun 1783 a Treasury Warrant (# 16713) was issued to Samuel Hensley as assignee of Thomas Elliott. It was for 64 acres in Washington County. This was not surveyed until 19 Mar 1798 and conveyed 13 Jul 1810. I don't know what caused the delay. The land was on waters of Steele Creek, north branch of Holston River.

In 1783 (no date), Samuel Hensley released any claims he had to a tract of land on both sides of Coney Creek where he lived for some time and built a house and cabin. He sold it in a verbal agreement ca 1774-75 to David Huskey who sold it to Richard Joseph Rhea. (Ruthe Muench to Mr. Lyon J. Hoard 20 Oct 1966)

Samuel Hensley was listed on the 1784 tax list in Washington Co., VA in Mr. James Fulkinson’s district with 1 white tithe, 5 horses and 8 cattle. There was no land tax list for this year.

Samuel Hansley was listed on the 1785 tax list in Washington Co., VA in James Fulkerson’s district with 1 white tithe, 6 horses and 11 cattle. There was no land tax list for this year.

Samuel Hensley was listed on the 1786 tax list in Washington Co., VA in James Fulkerson’s district with 1 white tithe, 7 horses and 15 cattle. He was also on the land tax list with 400 acres.

In the Inventory of the Estate of Anthony Head, dated 11 Nov 1786, Samuel Hensley, Joseph Hensley and Henry Spa were the appraisers.

Samuel Hensley was listed on the 1787 tax list in Washington Co., VA in John Lathim’s district with 1 white tithe, 4 horses and 16 cattle. He was also on the land tax list with 325 acres.

Samuel Heansley was listed on the 1788 tax list in Washington Co., VA in James Lathim’s district with 1 white tithe (himself) and 4 horses. Either no cattle, or they weren’t listed. He was also on the land tax list with 325 acres.

Samuel Hancley was listed on the 1789 tax list in Washington Co., VA in Walter Preston’s district with 1 white tithe (himself), no horses and 6 cattle. He was also on the land tax list with 325 acres.

Samuel Hansley was listed on the 1790 tax list in Washington Co., VA in Walter Preston’s district with 1 white tithe (himself), 9 horses and cows no longer listed. He was also on the land tax list with 325 acres.

The 1790 census is lost for Virginia but it seems reasonable that Samuel would have been listed in Washington County.

Samuel Hancley was listed on the 1791 tax list in Washington Co., VA in Walter Preston’s district with 1 white tithe (himself) and 8 horses. He was also on the land tax list with 325 acres.

Samuel Hencley was listed on the 1792 tax list in Washington Co., VA in Walter Preston’s district with 1 white tithe (himself), 10 horses. He was also on the land tax list with 325 acres.

Samuel Hancley was listed on the 1793 tax list in Washington Co., VA, in Walter Preston’s district with 1 white tithe, 9 horses. He was also on the land tax list with 325 acres.

Samuel Hensley was recommended to be a Lieutenant in the Washington Militia on 19 Feb 1793 for the 2nd Battalion, 70th Regiment. (Clark, Gerald H. The Militia of Washington County, VA Officers 1777-1835 Militia Men 1798-1835. 1979)

Samuel Hencly was on the 1794 tax list in Washington Co., VA, in Walter Preston’s district 1 white, 10 horses. He was also on the land tax list with 325 acres.

Samuel Hensley was again recommended to be a Lieutenant in the Washington Militia on 16 Apr 1794 for the Capt. Joseph Hensley's Company, 70th Regiment. (Clark, Gerald H. The Militia of Washington County, VA Officers 1777-1835 Militia Men 1798-1835. 1979)

Samuel Hensley is listed on the 1795 tax list in Washington Co., VA in Matthew Willoughby’s company. He has one Tithable white male over 16 (himself), 9 horses. He was also on the land tax list with 325 acres.

On 28 Jul 1795 Samuel Hensley obtained a State Land Grant of 372 acres in the Rich Valley and on both sides of Walkers Mountain and waters of Cove Creek. (Land Office Grants No. 33, 1795-1796, p. 253 (Reel 99))

Samuel Hensley was recommended to be a Captain in the Washington Militia on 19 Nov 1795 in the room of Capt. Joseph Hensley who resigned. (Clark, Gerald H. The Militia of Washington County, VA Officers 1777-1835 Militia Men 1798-1835. 1979)

Samuel Hensly is listed on the 1796 tax list in Washington Co., VA in Matthew Willoughby’s company. He has one Tithable white male over 16 (himself) and 6 horses. He was also on the land tax list with 325 acres.

Samuel Hensly is listed on the 1797 tax list in Washington Co., VA in Matthew Willoughby’s company. He has one Tithable white male over 16 (himself) and 7 horses. He was also on the land tax list with 372 acres. This changed from the 1796 list.

On 14 Apr 1797 Samuel Hensley had 100 acres surveyed on Cove Creek.

Samuel Hensley is listed on the 1798 tax list in Washington Co., VA in Matthew Willoughby’s company in the Lower District. He has one white male over 16 (himself), 1 black over 16 and 1 black between 12 and 16 and no horses. He was also on the land tax list with 325 acres. Note that it was back to 325. Where did the slaves come from?

Samuel Hensly is listed on the 1799 tax list in Washington Co., VA in Matthew Willoughby’s company in the Lower District. He has one white male over 16 (himself), no blacks over 16, two blacks 12 to 16 and 7 horses. He was also on the land tax list with 325 acres.

On 20 Mar 1799 Samuel Hensley Jr was listed as a member of the 2nd Battalion, 105^th Regiment of Washington County Militia. This is probably Samuel C. Hensley of neighboring Sullivan Co., TN and not Samuel (1754). This younger Samuel appeared in Washington Co., VA records for a few years. He is a son of Robert Hensley. On this same date the 70th Regiment was divided to create the 105th of which Samuel Jr was a member, and Samuel Sr was a Captain. (Clark, Gerald H. The Militia of Washington County, VA Officers 1777-1835 Militia Men 1798-1835. 1979)

Samuel Hensly is listed on the 1800 tax list in Washington Co., VA in Matthew Willoughby’s company in the Lower District. He has one tithe above 16 (himself), no blacks over 16, two blacks 12 to 16 and 6 horses. He was also on the land tax list with 325 acres.

The 1800 census is lost for Virginia. I would think Samuel would have been listed in Washington Co., VA that year.

On 28 Feb 1800, Samuel Hensley obtained a State Land Grant of 100 acres on Cove Creek. (Land Office Grants No. 43, 1799-1800, p. 367 (Reel 109))

On 16 Apr 1800 Capt. Samuel Hensley resigned as Captain and replaced by John Fulkerson. (Clark, Gerald H. The Militia of Washington County, VA Officers 1777-1835 Militia Men 1798-1835. 1979)

Samuel Hensly is listed on the 1801 tax list in Washington Co., VA in the Lower District. He has two tithes above 16, which would be himself and probably his son Simon (1785) who would have just turned 16 that year. Samuel also had 1 black over 16, one black between 12 and 16 and three horses. He was listed on the land tax list with two tracts, 325 acres and 100 acres.

On 1 May 1801, Robert Preston Jr and Samuel Hensley received a joint grant of 1,484 acres in Washington County. Based on Treasury Warrants # 1203 and # 21057. (Land Office Grants No. 49, 1802, p. 116 (Reel 115)).

On 7 Jul 1801 Robert Hensley and Elioner his wife deeded property to Samuel Hensley of Washington Co., VA. This was their son named Samuel C. Hensley, and not the Samuel we are following on this page. (Washington Co., VA Deed Book 2 page 440)

Samuel Hensly is listed on the 1802 tax list in Washington Co., VA in Matthew Willoughby’s company in the Lower District. He has two tithes above 16, which would be himself and his son Simon who would be about 17. Samuel also had 1 black over 16, one black between 12 and 16 and three horses. He was listed on the land tax list with two tracts, 325 acres and 100 acres. He was listed on the land tax list as Samuel “Sr” to distinguish himself from Samuel C. Hensley who owned land at this time. (Son of Robert.)

Capt. Samuel Hansly is listed on the 1803 tax list in Washington Co., VA in Frederick Hamilton’s district. He has three tithes above 16, which would be himself and his son Simon who would be about 18 and the other may be Thomas Hensley (1788), though only 15 at that time. Perhaps there is another son. Samuel also had 1 black over 16, one black between 12 and 16 and eight horses. He was listed on the land tax list with two tracts, 325 acres and 100 acres. He was listed on the land tax list as Samuel “Sr” to distinguish himself from Samuel C. Hensley who owned land at this time. (Son of Robert.)

Samuel Hensley is listed on the 1804 tax list in Washington Co., VA in Frederick Hamilton’s district. He has three tithes above 16, which would be himself and his son Simon who would be about 19, and Thomas Hensley who turned 16 that year. Samuel had no blacks over 16, two blacks between 12 and 16 and ten horses. He was listed on the land tax list with two tracts, 325 acres and 100 acres. He was listed on the land tax list as Samuel “Sr” to distinguish himself from Samuel C. Hensley who owned land at this time. (Son of Robert.)

On 25 Jun 1804 Samuel Hensely of Montgomery Co., KY gave power of attorney to "father" Robert Hensley of Washington Co., VA. This is Samuel Jr, but I thought I'd point out that he had left Washington Co., VA by this time. (Washington Co., VA Deed Book 3 page 359)

Samuel Hensley is listed on the 1805 tax list in Washington Co., VA in Frederick Hamilton’s district. He has three tithes above 16, which would be himself and his son Simon who would be about 20, and Thomas Hensley (1788) who would be about 17. Samuel had two blacks over 16, no blacks between 12 and 16 and eight horses. He was listed on the land tax list with two tracts, 325 acres and 100 acres. He was listed on the land tax list as Samuel “Sr” to distinguish himself from Samuel C. Hensley who owned land at this time. (Son of Robert.) Robert Preston and Samuel Hensley were listed together on the land tax list this year with 1,420 acres that they owned jointly.

Samuel Hensly is listed on the 1806 tax list in Washington Co., VA in Matthew Willoughby’s company in the Lower District. He has four tithes above 16, which would be himself and his son Simon who would be about 21, and his son Thomas who would be about 18, and one other potential son. Samuel had two blacks over 16, no blacks between 12 and 16 and eleven horses. He was listed on the land tax list with two tracts, 325 acres and 100 acres. He was listed on the land tax list as Samuel “Sr” to distinguish himself from Samuel C. Hensley who owned land at this time. (Son of Robert.) Robert Preston and Samuel Hensley were listed together on the land tax list this year with 1,484 acres that they owned jointly.

Samuel Hensley is listed on the 1807 tax list in Washington Co., VA in Matthew Willoughby’s company in the Lower District. He has one tithe above 16, which is himself. His sons Simon and Thomas were listed on their own this time. He also had two blacks over 16 and two horses. He was listed on the land tax list with two tracts, 325 acres and 100 acres. He was listed on the land tax list as Samuel “Sr” to distinguish himself from Samuel C. Hensley who owned land at this time. (Son of Robert.) Robert Preston and Samuel Hensley were listed together on the land tax list this year with 1,484 acres that they owned jointly.

There was no taxes for the year 1808 so no tax list.

Samuel Hensly is listed on the 1809 tax list in Washington Co., VA in the Lower District. He has one tithe above 16, himself, two blacks over 16, three horses. He was listed on the land tax list with two tracts, 325 acres and 100 acres. He was listed on the land tax list as Samuel “Sr” to distinguish himself from Samuel C. Hensley who owned land at this time. (Son of Robert.) Robert Preston and Samuel Hensley were listed together on the land tax list this year with 1,484 acres that they owned jointly.

Samuel Hensly is listed on the 1810 tax list in Washington Co., VA in the Lower District. He has one tithe above 16, himself, two blacks over 16, three horses. He was listed on the land tax list with two tracts, 373 acres and 100 acres. He was no longer listed as “Sr” suggesting Samuel C. Hensley was no longer in the area or a landowner. Robert Preston and Samuel Hensley were listed together on the land tax list this year with 1,500 acres that they owned jointly.

Samuel Hensley was listed on the 1810 census in Washington Co., VA. He was listed between Samuel Sholes and James Higginbotham (his son-in-law).

1810 census, Washington Co., VA p. 734, Saml Hensley age 45+ (before 1765)

00011-00201-0-2

On 13 Jul 1810, Samuel Hensley obtained a State Land Grant of 64 acres on Steels Creek. (Land Office Grants No. 60, 1809-1810, p. 538 (Reel 126))

On 17 Oct 1810, Samuel Hensley and John Goodson, justices, informed the court that Mary, wife of William Hensley could not conveniently travel to the court to acknowledge the above deed, so they went to her. They acknowledged that they spoke to her on 9 Nov 1811 and that she declared she signed the deed willingly (Washington Co., VA Deed Book 5 page 119).

This usually meant that the woman was pregnant, ill or old and unable to travel. This is William Hensley (c1765) who may be Samuel’s brother.

Samuel Hansly is listed on the 1811 tax list in Washington Co., VA in the Lower District. He has one tithe above 16, himself, two blacks over 16, four horses. He was listed on the land tax list with two tracts, 173 acres and 100 acres. Robert Preston Jr and Samuel Hensley were listed together on the land tax list this year with 1,400 acres that they owned jointly.

Samuel Hansly is listed on the 1812 tax list in Washington Co., VA in the Lower District. He has one tithe above 16, himself, two blacks over 16, four horses. He was listed on the land tax list with two tracts, 173 acres and 100 acres. Robert Preston Jr and Samuel Hensley were listed together on the land tax list this year with 1,400 acres that they owned jointly.

Samuel Hansly is listed on the 1813 tax list in Washington Co., VA in the Lower District. He has one tithe above 16, himself, two blacks over 16, three horses. He was listed on the land tax list with two tracts, 372 acres and 164 acres. He was no longer listed jointly with Robert Preston. Samuel’s 372 acre tract as being "improved land on waters of Cove Creek" and his 164 acres as "woodlands on Walkers Mountain." In 1814 his land was described as being 21 miles west of the court house.

Samuel Hancley is listed on the 1814 tax list in Washington Co., VA in the Lower District. He has one tithe above 16, himself, two blacks over 16, four horses. He was listed on the land tax list with two tracts, 372 acres and 164 acres.

Samuel Hancely is listed on the 1815 tax list in Washington Co., VA in the Lower District. He has one tithe above 16, himself, one black over 16, four horses. He was listed on the land tax list with two tracts, 372 acres and 164 acres.

Samuel Hancely is listed on the 1816 tax list in Washington Co., VA in the Lower District. He has one tithe above 16, himself, one black over 16, and three horses.

No Hensleys were listed on the 1817 tax list for some reason. I read the lower district twice and the upper district once and didn’t find them.

Samuel Hancely is listed on the 1818 tax list in Washington Co., VA in the Lower District. He has one tithe above 16, himself, one black over 16, and four horses.

On 16 Mar 1819 Samuel Hensley and Robert Preston sold 400 acres in Scott Co., VA to Caty Spangler. The land was on Cathases Creek, a branch of Cove Creek. Witnesses were Peter Mayo, H. Dixon, Edward Campbell. (Washington Co., VA Deed Book 2 page 184).

Samuel Hensley is listed on the 1819 tax list in Washington Co., VA in the Lower District. He has one tithe above 16, himself, one black over 16, and three horses.

Samuel Hensley is listed on the 1820 tax list in Washington Co., VA in the Thomas Fulkerson’s District. He has one tithe above 16, himself, one black over 16, and three horses.

Samuel was listed on the 1820 census in Washington Co., VA. Unfortunately, this census was alphabetical, so I can't tell who their neighbors were, nor where they might have been living. Samuel's first wife did not seem to be listed with him in 1820 so she may have died by then. There was a female aged 26-44 (born 1775/94) living there, but she could be one of his daughters or even his second wife (I don't know exactly when they married.)

1820 Census, Washington Co., VA, p. 215 Saml Hensley age 45+ (before 1775)

000011-00110, Slaves=1000-2010

On 10 Apr 1820 Samuel Hensley witnessed a deed from Agnes Hensley to Solomon Sells in Scott Co., VA. (Scott Co., VA Deed Book 7 page 344.) Agnes Hensley (c1763) might be his sister, but that isn’t proven.

Samuel Hensley married Margaret "Peggy" Crawford sometime before ca 1822 in Washington Co., Va. She was born ca 1799/1800 (per age of 50 on 1850 census) in Virginia, probably Washington County. She is a daughter of Andrew Crawford (as stated in Samuel's Will.) Andrew was born ca 1775, so young enough to be Samuel’s son.

Samuel was listed on the 1830 census in Washington Co., VA. Unfortunately, this census was alphabetical, so I can't tell who their neighbors were, nor where they might have been living.

1830 Census, Washington Co., VA p. 256 Samuel Hensley age 70-79 (c1750/60)

1100001001-10001, Slaves=110000-020100

Samuel Hensley made his Will in Washington County on 25 Apr 1838. He names his wife Peggy Hensley the daughter of Andrew Crawford to have equal share with heirs of last wife: Samuel Hensley, Sally Hensley, Isaac Hensley, Joel B. Hensley, Susanna Hensley. Then names heirs of former wife: Polly Benham, Katy Head, Thomas Hensley, Elizabeth Higginsbothim, Issabella Zimmerly, Peggy Loww, Simon Hensley. Witnessed by R. M. Stevens and A. B. Royston. (Washington Co., VA Will Book 8 page 265)

Samuel Hensley was listed in Tract entry book for a 60 acre warrant (# 4721) on 6 Mar 1811. The land was on waters of Cove Creek, side of Walkers Mountain. It was surveyed 12 Apr 1838.

On 30 Nov 1838, Samuel Hensley obtained a State Land Grant of 60 acres on Cove Creek. (Land Office Grants No. 90, 1838-1840, p. 163 (Reel 156))

Samuel was listed on the 1840 census in Washington Co., VA. Unfortunately, once again, this census was alphabetical, so I can't tell who their neighbors were, nor where they might have been living. This census also showed him as a Revolutionary War Pensioner, aged 86.

1840 Census, Washington Co., VA p. 218 Samuel Hensley age 80-89 (1750/60)

01110001001-10011, Slaves=000000-010000

Samuel Hensley died on 13 Feb 1841 (per tombstone) in Washington Co., VA. He is buried in the Hensley Cemetery.

His Will (of 1838) was proven in court on 11 Mar 1841.

Margaret Hensley was listed in Tract entry book for a 150 acre tract in Washington and Scott Co., VA on Cove Creek bordering Fielding Hensley's line, a survey for Peter Hartsock and a survey for Samuel Hensley. It was surveyed 20 Aug 1844.

On 30 Jun 1845 Margaret Hensley was granted 150 acres on Cove Creek in Washington and Scott Co., VA. (Land Office Grants No. 96, 1844-1845, p. 535 (Reel 162)).

Sometime between 1844 and 1846, widow Margaret married Jacob Grubb in Washington Co., VA. He was born ca 1775/76 (per age of 74 on 1850 census), in Virginia. He may be the same Jacob Grubb listed in Wythe Co., VA in 1820; Hawkins Co., TN in 1830; and Jefferson Co., TN in 1840. The age of that Jacob Grubb matches this one, but I can't say for sure that they are one and the same.

On 28 Feb 1846 Peggy Hensly now Peggy Grubb wife of Jacob Grubb sold land in Scott Co., VA. (Scott Co., VA Deed Book 13 page 521).

The Grubbs were listed on the 1850 census in Washington Co., VA. Two Mobleys were listed with them, relationship unknown; and two of Margaret's Hensley children were at home also, as was her widowed father Andrew Crawford (either there were two Andrew Crawfords, or else he was just listed twice in 1850, for he was also listed in Scott Co., VA that year with William Crawford (c1825), that Andrew was aged 73.) Margaret and family were next door to her son Isaac Hensley and his wife.

1850 Census, Washington Co., VA, p. 193B/194, House 1837, Family 1837, 67 District

The Grubbs were listed on the 1860 census next door to son Joel Hensley and his family. Franklin Crawford (c1842) was with them. I would assume he was a relative of Margaret, perhaps a nephew. Could he be the same person who was with Margaret in 1850 listed as Frank Mobley? The ages are compatible, but I can't say they are the same person.

1860 Census, Washington Co., VA The Western District, Three Springs PO, p. 66, house 2214, family 2153

Jacob Grubb died sometime between 1860 and 1862, for on 14 Oct 1862 Margaret married Fleming W. Robertson in Washington County. I have no data on him. He apparently died before 1870 for Margaret is listed on that census without him. She is listed next door to son Joel Hensley, just as in 1860.

1870 Census, Washington Co., VA, Kinderbrook Township, Abingdon PO, p. 143, House 230, Family 230

Margaret "Peggy" Crawford Hensley Grubb died in Washington Co., VA on 22 Aug 1879. (Per Thomas Hensley Family Bible)

Children

Samuel Hensley’s Will of 1838 named all of his children, which is a great help for researchers. The tax lists for Samuel indicate he had an extra unidentified son. This child would have been born in the mid 1780s most likely. It could be Sampson Hensley (c1782-1810), but I’m not sure of that.

According to the Will, Samuel had seven children with his first wife and five with his second wife, Margaret, for a total of 12.

 

1.         Mary “Polly” Hensley (c1777)

2.         Catherine Hensley (1778)

3.         Simon Hensley (1785)

4.         Thomas Hensley (1788)

5.         Elizabeth Hensley (1790)

6.         Isabella Hensley (1784/94)

7.         Margaret “Peggy” Hensley (1784/94)

8.         Samuel Hensley (1823)

9.         Sarah “Sally” Hensley (1825)

10.       Isaac Bledsoe Hensley (1830)

11.       Joel Benham Hensley (1832)

12.       Susanna Hensley (1835)

---

Mary “Polly” Hensley was born ca 1777/78 per her age of 72 on the 1850 census, or ca 1778/79 per her age of 81 on the 1860 census. Both are compatible if born ca 1778. However, this conflicts with the birth date of her sister Catherine (born 8 Mar 1778). Of course it’s possible they were twins, or that Catherine’s date is wrong. Polly is probably the older of the two since named before Catherine in her father’s Will.

Polly was presumably born in Washington Co., VA. She is a proven daughter of Samuel Hensley as named in his 1838 Will as daughter "Polly Benham."

Polly married William Benham sometime in the 1790's presumably in Washington Co., VA. I didn’t find a marriage record for them. He was born between 1765 and 1773 per his age on the 1810 census and his 1794 tax list entry. He was listed on that list by name, so assuming he was at least 21 then, he was born ca 1773 or earlier. Since it was his first entry, that suggests he had just recently turned 21.

William is said to be a son of John Benham and Mary Hobbs though I don't know the source for that but it seems accurate. John Benham was listed on the land and personal property tax lists in Washington Co., VA in the 1780's through 1800, the only one of that surname listed each year through 1792. In 1793 he was joined by Vincent Bennum, probably his oldest son. In 1794 John was still listed, as was another John (his son), and William appears for the first time. Joel Benham appears later.

William Benham was listed on the Washington Co., VA personal property tax lists in 1794, 1795, 1796, 1797, 1798, 1799 and 1800, each time with one tithable (himself) and a small number of horses. He was not on the land tax lists, so owned no property yet.

The 1800 census is lost for Virginia.

William Benham is listed on the personal property tax lists again from 1801 through 1810 (excluding 1808 when there were no taxes). He was also on the land tax lists for those years, each time with 176 acres.

William Benham is listed on the 1810 census in Washington Co., VA. He was listed between Alexander Drumgold and Christey Fleenor.

1810 Census, Washington Co., VA p. 228 William Benham age 26-44 (born ca 1765/84)

41010-10010-0-0

I didn’t find William Benham on the 1811 tax list, but he was listed in 1812 and 1813. He was not listed in 1814. That’s the year Scott County was formed from part of Washington, taking the Benham’s with it.

William Benham died sometime before 12 Mar 1818 for on that date the Scott County Court ordered that Andrew McHenry be appointed guardian ad litem to John, Samuel, Catherine, Isaac, Sampson and Joel Benham, infants under 21, heirs of William Benham, deceased. This was for their part in a suit brought by Sarah Hensley and others against Polly Benham and others. (Scott Co., VA Minute Book 1). See Larkin Hensley (c1765) for more on that lawsuit. It stretched on for at least 10 years.

Mary Benham was listed as head of household on the 1820 census in Scott Co., VA. Unfortunately, this census was alphabetical, so I can't tell who their neighbors were, nor where they might have been living within the county.

1820 Census, Scott Co., VA p. 185 Mary Bennom age 26-44 (1775/1794)

120200-00110-0-0

Mary was listed as head of household on the 1830 census, still in Scott County. Once again the census was alphabetical. Son Samuel was listed next after her entry.

1830 census, Scott Co., VA p. 3, Polly Benham, age 50-59 (1770/1780)

01012-00010001

Mary was not listed by name on the 1840 census. Her son Joel Benham was listed and he had a woman aged 60-69 (born 1770-1780) living with him. That is probably her as she was with him in 1850 also. Other family members seem to be with them as well in 1840.

1840 census, Scott Co., VA, p. 284 Joel Benham, age 30-39 (1800/1810)

001011-000010001

Polly was with her son Joel and his family for the 1850 census.

1850 census, Scott Co., VA, Western District, p. 376, house 347, family 347

Polly was still home with Joel for the 1860 census.

1860 Census, Scott Co., VA, Estillville PO, House 204, Family 204

Mary "Polly" Hensley Benham died in Scott Co., VA on 15 Oct 1862. I don’t know the original source for that date.

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Catherine Hensley was born 8 Mar 1778 (source?) in Washington Co., VA. She is a proven daughter of Samuel Hensley as named in his 1838 Will as daughter "Katy Head."

Catherine married Gavin Head before ca 1797 in Washington Co., VA. Gavin was born 3 Jun 1772 (source?). He is a son of Anthony and Mary (---) Head. (Source?)

Gavin Head was listed on the 1794 Washington Co., VA tax list and taxed for one horse and himself. This is his first entry on the tax lists, so that suggests he had just turned 21 not too long before, which works okay with a 1772 birth date.

Gavin was listed on the Tax lists in Washington County from 1794 through 1800. Beginning in 17 96 he was also on the land tax lists with 70 acres.

The 1800 census is lost for Virginia.

On 22 Oct 1800 Gavin Head was recommended as a Lieutenant in the Washington Co., VA militia in a new company, 2nd Battalion to replace Richard Fulkerson. (Clark, Gerald H. The Militia of Washington County, VA Officers 1777-1835 Militia Men 1798-1835. 1979)

He was listed on the Tax lists in Washington County from 1801 through 1810. He was no longer on the land tax lists.

Gavin Head resigned as Lieutenant of the 2nd Battalion and was replaced on 17 May 1803 by John Skillern. (Clark, Gerald H. The Militia of Washington County, VA Officers 1777-1835 Militia Men 1798-1835. 1979)

Gavin Head was listed on the 1810 census in Washington Co., VA. An older woman was living with them, who may be Gavin's widowed mother Mary. Oddly, he has 3 slaves listed here, but none on the tax lists before or after this. Maybe they belonged to his mother or other relative.

1810 Census, Washington Co., VA p. 234, Gavin Head age 26-44 (1765/1784)

10010-40111-0-3

Gavin was listed on the Tax lists in Washington County from 1811 through 1814. He was not on the land tax lists those years except for 1813 when he was listed as “of Bledsoe” with 107 acres. I assume that means the land in question was purchased recently from a Mr. Bledsoe. Or perhaps not?

The Head family moved to Missouri sometime after 1814.

The 1820 census is lost for Missouri.

Gavin Head was listed on the 1830 census in Boone Co., MO. No Hensleys were in that county at that time. There was an Alfred Head (c1790/1800) there in 1830, relationship to Gavin unknown.

1830 Census, Boone Co., MO, p. 93, Gaven Head age 50-59 (1770/80)

01211001-10120001, Slaves=0

The family moved two counties west to Saline County sometime during the 1830's.

Gavin Head died sometime in the 1830's, though whether in Boone or Saline County I don't know. An entry on Find-A-Grave shows him born 3 Apr 1772, and died 1832 in Saline Co., MO, and buried at the Hunt Cemetery in that county. No tombstone photo is included nor any proof of the dates or that he’s buried there. All could be accurate of course.

Catherine Head was listed as head of household on the 1840 census in Saline County.

1840 census, Saline Co., MO, p. 96, Catherine Head age 50-59 (1780/1790)

000031-00100001, Slaves=020000-100100*

* Where did these slaves come from? The total number of people in the household is listed as 7, but it should be 10 unless something is askew here.

Catherine Hensley Head died ca 1841 in Saline Co., MO. (source?)

I don't have any record yet of who Catherine's children were, but the census records seem to indicate she had several. There are several Head marriages recorded in Boone Co., MO when Gavin and family were there. Agnes Head to William Teague in 1822, Ann Head to Anderson Davis in 1826, Rebecca Head to Michael Senor in 1833, and Lavina Head to Gabriel Smith in 1834. Some of those could be Gavin and Catherine’s children. I have no evidence either way just yet.

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Simon Hensley was born 26 Apr 1785 in Washington Co., VA. He is a proven son of Samuel Hensley as named in his 1838 Will as son "Simon Hensley."

Some records list him as Simeon Hensley instead of Simon. Although the names are similar they are not pronounced the same way.

Simon Hensley left home in the 1810s and moved to Ohio, and then to IL where he died in 1826. See his own page for additional information.

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Thomas Hensley was born 20 Apr 1788 (per his family Bible record) in Washington Co., VA. He is a proven son of Samuel Hensley as named in his 1838 Will as son "Thomas Hensley."

Thomas moved to Upper Canada before 1810, but returned to Virginia during the War of 1812. He later went to Indiana after 1820, then to Ohio briefly before returning to Indiana. See his own page for additional information

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Elizabeth Hensley was born 29 Mar 1790 (source?) in Washington Co., VA. She is a proven daughter of Samuel Hensley as named in his 1838 Will as daughter "Elizabeth Higginsbothim."

Elizabeth married James G. Higginbotham sometime before 1810, presumably in Washington Co., VA (no marriage record found.) He was born ca 1787/88 per his age of 62 on the 1850 census. I don't know who his parents were. I did not find James Higginbotham listed on any of the Washington County tax lists 1782-1815, though others of that surname were there.

For the 1810 census they were listed next to Elizabeth's father Samuel Hensley in Washington Co., VA.

1810 Census, Washington Co., VA p. 223, James Higgenbotem, age 16-25 (1784/1794)

00100-00100-0-0

James G. Higginbotham, alias Joseph Lomboy (Lambag?) was a soldier in the War of 1812. His 2^nd wife, Isabelle applied for a widow’s pension many years later based on his service. I don’t understand the alias, but it’s listed that way on the pension index card.

They moved to neighboring Tazewell Co., VA before 1820 and were listed there on the 1820 census. Unfortunately, this census was alphabetical, so I can't tell who their neighbors were, nor where they might have been living within that county.

1820 Census, Tazewell Co., VA p. 249, James Higingbotham age 26-44 (1775/1794)

500010-00010-0-0

They were listed on the 1830 census in Tazewell County. This census was also alphabetical.

1830 Census, Tazewell Co., VA p. 203, James Higginbotham age 40-49 (1780/1790)

1212001-000001

They were still in Tazewell for the 1840 census. There were several other Higginbothams listed as well, some nearby. A widow Elizabeth (1770/80) was two houses away. His widowed mother perhaps?

1840 Census, Tazewell Co., VA p. 26, James G. Higginbotham age 5–59 (1780/1790)

00110001-01000001

Elizabeth Hensley Higginbotham died on 25 Sep 1841 (source?) in Tazewell Co., VA.

James G. Higginbotham married Isabella Scott on 8 Mar 1847 in neighboring Smyth Co., VA.

James G. Higginbotham was listed on the 1850 census in Tazewell. His name is written "Jos G." which normally would be translated as "Joseph" instead of "James" but I noticed nearby a lady listed as "Jone" which should probably be "Jane" so this was apparently how this census taker wrote, so I'm pretty sure this is our James G. and not some Joseph G. instead. However, his wife Isabella was not with him for the census.

1850 census, Tazewell Co., VA, Western District, p. 251B, house 499, family 499

Isabella was in Smyth County with her mother in 1850.

1850 census, Smyth Co., VA, 60^th District, p. 226, house 954, family 964

James was still in Tazewell for the 1860 census. Isabella was with him this time.

1860 Census, Tazewell Co., VA, Western District, Knob PO, House 926, Family 911

James G. Higginbotham apparently died in the 1860's, for Isabella was listed on the 1870 census as an apparent widow in Tazewell County.

1870 Census, Tazewell Co., VA, Maiden Spring, Knob PO, House 90, Family 90

A Court case in Washington Co., VA from the 1870's names some of the heirs of James Higginbotham as William, Samuel W., Thomas J., and Reese Higginbotham.

Isabella was on the 1880 census in Tazewell with her son James.

1880 Census, Tazewell Co., VA, Clear Fork Dist, House 249, Family 249

I didn’t find Isabella on the 1900 census, so she probably died by then.

The book Annals of Tazewell Co., VA, Volume II pp 459-471 contains a detailed profile of this family. Many of the birth and marriage dates I have for this family are from this source.

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Isabella Hensley was presumably born in Washington Co., VA, probably in the 1780 or early 1790's. No record of her birth date has been located just yet. She may be one of the two girls listed with Samuel Hensley on the 1810 census aged 16-25 (born ca 1784-94).

She is a proven daughter of Samuel Hensley as named in his 1838 Will as daughter "Isabella Zimmerly."

Isabella Hensley married William Zimmerly sometime before 1824. His name is proven via the death certificate of their son James Zimmerle (note spelling) who died 1904 in Indiana. It lists father as William Zimmerle, birth place unknown, and mother as Isabella Hensley, born Virginia.

There was a Jacob Zimmerly in Washington Co., VA early on who could be William’s father, or perhaps even grandfather. He was on the tax lists from 1782 through 1815, and probably beyond that (I haven’t checked).

The 1810 census shows two Zimmerlys in Washington County, both named Jacob. They were listed side by side. Jacob Zimerle and Jacob Zimerle Jr. The elder was age 45 and up (born before 1765), apparent wife the same age. Jr's household contained 2 males under 10, but no other males listed. 1 female age 16-25 (born ca 1784/94) was listed.

The 1820 census shows Jacob Zimmerly in Washington County. He was born ca 1775-1794, so clearly the younger man of that name. There was an apparent widow Elizabeth Zimmerly in Scott County. She was also born ca 1775/94, so I don't know if she was the widow of the elder Jacob or not.

I wasn’t able to definitively find William Zimmerle on the 1830 census. I found one, William Simmerly (1790/1800) in nearby Carter Co., TN on the 1830 and 1840 census. I’m reasonably sure that isn’t the same man.

There is another William Zimmerly (1800/10) in 1830, 1840, and 1850 Rush Co., IN. That one has more promise, as Isabella’s brother Thomas Hensley had been in Rush Co., IN back in 1830, but was gone by 1840. William Zimmerlee, age 47 (c1802/03), born VA, was still in Rush in 1850, occupation Miller. I’m not 100% certain this is the same William, but for lack of other suspects, I’m going to say it is. In 1830 his apparent wife was 40-49 (born ca 1780/90), which works perfectly. She apparently died by 1836 for then he married Rhoda Henderson.

Of course it’s entirely possible that the 40 something woman with him in 1830 was his mother and not his wife, and this is the wrong William. Regardless, I’m sticking with him pending evidence to the contrary.

1830 Census, Rush Co., IN, p. 311, William Zimerly age 20-29 (1800/1810)

11001-1000001

William Zimmerlee married Rhoda Henderson on 26 Mar 1836 in Rush Co., IN.

There is a John Zimmerle (1800/10) near William on the 1840 census. His brother perhaps?

1840 Census, Rush Co., IN, p. 317, Wm Zimmerle age 30-39 (1800/1810)

101001-00101

1850 census, Rush Co., IN, District No 97, p. 391, house 258, family 258

1860 Census, Boone Co, IN, Eagle Township, Zionsville PO, House 1218 Family 1177

I didn’t follow them beyond 1860.

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Margaret “Peggy” Hensley was presumably born in Washington Co., VA, probably in the 1790's. No record of her birth date has been located just yet. She is probably one of the two girls listed with Samuel Hensley on the 1810 census aged 16-25 (born ca 1784-94).

She is a proven daughter of Samuel Hensley as named in his 1838 Will as daughter "Peggy Loww."

It seems that Margaret Hensley had two children born a few years prior to her marriage to John Lowe. Isaac Hensley (1803) and Elkanah Hensley (1810). Were they born out of wedlock, or was she married to another Hensley? Or were these not actually her children, but nephews instead? I don’t know the answer.

Margaret Hensley married John Lowe sometime before ca 1816. He was born ca 1790/94, a son of Henry Lowe (as proven by an 1830 deed).

John Lowe was listed on the 1820 census in Washington Co., VA. Oddly, there seems to be no wife listed. This could be a census error, or perhaps Margaret wasn’t his first wife, or she simply wasn’t residing with him in 1820 for some reason.

1820 Census, Washington Co., VA p. 958, John Lowe age 26-44 (1775/1794)

300010-11000-0-0

John Lowe is listed on the 1830 census in Washington Co., VA. Margaret, or someone her age, was with him at this time.

1830 Census, Washington Co., VA p. 263, John Lowe Head age 30-39 (1790/1800)

012001-1220001

On 1 Nov 1830, Henry Lowe, John’s father, made a deed of gift to John’s children of various and sundry personal property. The deed mentions John several times, but does not say that he was deceased. However, this is the last record I’ve found (so far) with his name on it, so maybe he was near death at this time?

The deed named these as John Lowe’s children: Thomas, Nelly, Ibby, Westley, Betsey, Ritty, Henry Wilkinson, Letticia. Their mother was not mentioned, so perhaps she had died as well. This was a few months after the census was taken. (Washington Co., VA Deed Book 10, p. 297-298.)

In 1840 Washington Co., VA, Vincent Lowe was still there as was Henry Lowe, 94 (Revolutionary War pensioner). Moses Lowe (1810/20) was listed too. None of the above had anyone Margaret’s age, nor her children’s ages. John Lowe as not in Washington in 1840. I didn’t find him listed elsewhere in 1840 either. I checked those who were in Indiana that year since his children were there by 1850. None of the John Lowe’s I found seem to be the same man. I also checked for Margaret or Peg(gy) Lowe’s on the 1840 census with no luck.

I found six of the eight Lowe children living in Marion Co., IN and Clinton Co., IN in 1850. Since siblings were residing together then, that suggests both parents were deceased. Their half brother Elkanah Hensley was in Hamilton Co., OH in 1850. Half brother Isaac Hensley was not located, perhaps dead by then.

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Samuel Hensley was born 10 Apr 1823 (Thomas Hensley Family Bible) in Washington Co., VA. He appears to be home with his parents for the 1830 census, aged 5-9 (born ca 1820/25). He was named in his father's 1838 Will as son "Samuel." He appears to be home with parents for the 1840 census, aged 15-19 (born ca 1820/25).

Samuel Hensley died on 29 May 1842 (Thomas Hensley Family Bible) in Washington Co., VA. Ruthe Muench's notes say that Samuel drowned in the creek below Burdines home.

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Sarah “Sally” Hensley was born 15 Mar 1825 (per tombstone) in Washington Co., VA. She appears to be home with her parents for the 1830 census, aged under 5 (born ca 1825/30).

She was named in her father's 1838 Will as daughter "Sally Hensley."

She appears to be home with parents for the 1840 census, aged 15-19 (born ca 1820/25).

Sarah Hensley married Jonathan Sells sometime between 1840 and 1843 either in Washington or Scott Co., VA. Jonathan was born ca 1811/12 (per age of 38 on 1850 census) in Virginia. He appears to be a son of Solomon and Elizabeth (---) Sells who were living with them in 1850.

They were listed on the 1850 census in Scott Co., VA. Jonathan's probable parents are living with them.

1850 census, Scott Co., VA, Western District, p. 371b, House 293, Family 293

Jonathan Sells died sometime before 1859 for on 12 Jan 1859, Sally Sells, daughter of Samuel and Margaret Hensley, age 30, widow, married Thomas Kendrick, son of Preston and Sally, in Washington Co., VA. Both bride and groom were listed as born in Washington Co., VA.

I was unable to locate Sarah and family on the 1860 census.

Thomas Kendrick apparently died before 1870 for Sarah was living with her mother on that census.

1870 Census, Washington Co., VA, Kinderbrook Township, Abingdon PO, p. 143, House 230, Family 230

Sarah married again in the 1870's to William Felty. He was born ca 1811/12 in Virginia, probably Washington County. He was previously married to Eliza --- and had several children with her. His second wife was Catherine --- by whom he had several children as well. I don't know who his parents were. In 1850 he was living next door to Sarah Hensley's mother.

They were listed on the 1880 census in Washington County.

1880 Census, Washington Co., VA, Goodson Township, House 366, Family 407

Sarah is with her daughter Eliza for the 1900 census.

1900 Census, Washington Co., VA, Kinderhook Township, page 233B, House 263, Family 263

Sarah “Sally” Hensley Sells Kendrick Felty died on 26 Jan 1909 and is buried at the Hensley Cemetery in Washington Co., VA.

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Isaac Bledsoe Hensley was born 9 Jun 1830 (Thomas Hensley Family Bible) in Washington Co., VA. He was named in his father's Will of 1838 as son "Isaac Hensley." He was apparently named for Isaac Bledsoe who was a fellow resident of Washington Co., VA and associated with Samuel Hensley. I don't know if they were related or not.

He married Elizabeth Hashberger in the 1840's. They later moved to Indiana.

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Joel Benham Hensley was born 25 Jun 1832 (per tombstone) in Washington Co., VA. He seems to have been named after Joel Benham (c1808) his own nephew (son of Mary Hensley Benham, Joel B. Hensley's much older half sister.) He was named in his father's Will of 1838 as son "Joel Hensley."

Joel B. Hensley married Catherine Pullon (or Pullion) on 25 Feb 1857 in neighboring Scott Co., VA.

---

Susanna Hensley was born 1 Nov 1835 (Thomas Hensley Family Bible) in Washington Co., VA. She was named in her father's Will of 1838 as daughter “Susanna Hensley.” She was apparently home with her parents for the 1840 census aged under 5 (born ca 1835/40). She was home with her mother and step-father in 1850 Susan Hensley age 13, born Virginia.

Susannah married John J. Spangler in Dec 1850 (per Thomas Hensley Family Bible) in Washington Co., VA. John was born ca 1825/26 (per age of 24 on 1850 census). That census listed him as John Jr. He could be a son of the older John Spangler (c1806) who was two houses away in 1850 though John “Jr” wasn’t living with him at the time.

The Spanglers moved to Cherokee Co., AL between ca 1852 and 1855.

They were listed there on the 1860 census. There was also a Gideon Spangler (c1794 VA) there with wife Barbara (c1795 NC) and some children born in the 1820's in Virginia. I don't know if they are related to John or not. They were just a few houses apart. Perhaps they were John's parents instead of the old John from 1850.

1860 Census, Cherokee Co., AL, Third District, Blue Pond PO, House 558, Family 558

John J. Spangler apparently died in the early 1860s in Alabama.

After his death, Susannah and the children moved north to Indiana, perhaps to be closer to her brother Isaac Hensley who was in Fayette Co., IN. However, we find her a few counties west of there in 1865 when she married David Franklin on 26 Oct 1865 in Hendricks Co., IN. Mr. Franklin was a widower with several children from his first marriage.

They are on the 1870 census in Sullivan Co., IN, which borders Illinois and is all the way across the state from her brother Isaac in Fayette Co., IN.

1870 Census, Sullivan Co., IN, Gill Township, Merom? PO, p. 80, house 237, family 227

Susannah Hensley Spangler Franklin apparently died in the early 1870s, presumably in Sullivan Co., IN. Her second husband, David Franklin, moved west to Kansas sometime after her death.

Susannah’s unmarried children apparently went back to Fayette Co., IN and perhaps resided with their uncle Isaac Hensley until they married.

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Click here for family group sheets of this family. Other notes and sources might be listed there.

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Revised: January 30, 2022

Copyright © 1996-2022 Marvin A. Grant, Jr. All Rights Reserved.

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