martygrant.com: Home > Genealogy > Miller > Families > John
[Commentary] [Children] [Researcher List] [Register Report] [A Note about sources] [How to contact me] [Home]
I (Marty Grant) am a 6th Great Grandson of John and Mary (Cross) Miller.
This family seems to have been of Germanic origin, and the name "Miller" was formerly rendered as "Muller", but anglicized to "Miller" in the late 1700's in Western North Carolina. There is some debate about whether John was of German origin, or of Scots-Irish origin. The only "Germanic" evidence I have is two 1796 deeds signed as "Johannes Muller", but that could always be an error of some sort (see below for more on that subject).
Special thanks to cousins Helen Miller Kemeny and Claire Morelli for data shared on this family.
Johannes Muller (a. k. a. "John Miller") was born before 1755 (per 1800 census). He was in the Lincoln County, North Carolina area before 1790, but he was not born there. Certain evidence suggests that he moved to that area from somewhere in South Eastern Pennsylvania, quite possibly York County. I base this on the Revolutionary War Pension records of his alleged brother-in-law Joseph Cross (shared with me by several Cross researchers). Since Joseph Cross was from Frederick Co, VA, but moved to York Co, PA in time for the Revolutionary War, and eventually moved to Lincoln and later to Buncombe Co, NC, it seems reasonable that John Miller followed the same path (excepting possibly the Virginia aspect).
** I have not yet attempted to do any Miller/Muller research in York Co, PA, so I don't know if John Miller was actually there, or if he was born there, or immigrated there from somewhere else. This is an extremely common name, so research might be difficult.
I don't know who John Miller's parents were. I have no clues at all. I have also have no clues to any possible siblings so far.
John Miller married Mary Cross sometime before ca 1780, possibly in York Co, PA. Mary was born ca 1755/60 somewhere, possibly in Frederick Co, VA. I have not seen any proof that her maiden name was "Cross", but this appears to be based on family tradition. Circumstantial evidence supports this conclusion, but I am unaware of any direct evidence proving her maiden name. If it is true that she was a Cross, then it seems very likely that she was a sister to Joseph Cross (c1747), and John Cross (bef 1755) and possibly Solomon Cross (bef 1755).
John and Mary and family apparently left Pennsylvania between ca 1784 and ca 1790, arriving in Lincoln Co, NC and settling on Kettle Shoal Creek (possibly the same as Rattle Shoal Creek in present Gaston Co, NC, which was formed from Lincoln many years later).
The early Lincoln County, NC records show at least 2, perhaps 3 or more, distinct John Millers living there (including this one) prior to 1800, so this makes it quite possible that I have mixed up the records in some cases.
** I have not done an exhaustive search of early Lincoln County, NC records for the Millers, so there may be a number of pertinent records that I have not seen yet.
I found Court records for "John Miller" dated Oct 1785, Jul 1786 and Oct 1787, but I have no way to know which John Miller was being referenced. The first one (Oct 1785) was acknowledging a 1785 deed from William Sharp to John Miller for 200 acres, the second one (Jul 1786) was a John Miller listed as a Juror, and the third one (Oct 1787) was another deed acknowledgment, for a 1786 deed from John Carpenter and wife to John Miller. (Lincoln Co, NC Court of Pleas and Quarter Sessions Minutes).
There were two John Millers listed on the 1790 census in Lincoln Co, NC. The first one was listed in the 2nd Company, and had a small family (1 male, and 2 females), and most likely isn't our John. The other one was in the 4th Company, and is probably ours. He was listed between Jackson Moore and Didrich Cook. A Jacob Miller and Henry Miller were also listed in the 4th Company, though I don't know if they might be related to John Miller. The enumerations for John here in 1790 are not a perfect match with what I expected, so it is possible that this isn't the same John Miller, though it is well proven that our John Miller was in Lincoln at this time, but this entry might not be him.
1790 census analysis (based on available evidence): (Explanation of this census)
1790 Lincoln Co, NC pg 112 John Miller 2-2-4-0-0 Analysis: 2 Male(s) 16 and Up (before 1774) John MILLER (bef 1755) s/o ? John MILLER (c1780) son 2 Male(s) under 16 (1774/1790) David H. MILLER (1783/84) son Jacob MILLER (1784/90) son 4 Female(s) any age (before 1790) Mary CROSS Miller (1755/60) Daughter? (1784/90) Daughter? (Bef 1790) --> gone by 1800 Daughter? (Bef 1790) --> gone by 1800
An interesting event occurred on 31 Dec 1792 in Lincoln Co, NC (as noted in a January 1793 Court Record). Apparently, William Edwards, a Constable, went to arrest a certain Nancy Smith. He reported that John Miller and Joseph Cross (his brother-in-law) were there, and that he asked for them to assist in the arrest, but they refused to help. No further detail was provided, but I can't help but wonder if Nancy Smith was somehow related to John Miller and Joseph Cross, perhaps a sister to one of them. (Lincoln Co, NC Civil Action Papers, page 358).
On 24 Feb 1796, John Miller of Lincoln Co, NC sold 150 acres to John Cross (probably another brother-in-law). The land was on Kettle Shoal Creek, south fork of Catawba River. Witnesses were Samuel Cross (a son of John Cross) and Thomas Norman. The Deed was signed in German "Johannes Muller". I have not found a "Kettle Shoal Creek" on a map, but there is a "Rattle Shoal Creek in present Gaston County, (north of Gastonia), which might be the same creek. I also did not find a record of John Miller acquiring this land, though their might be a deed or land grant showing this, but I've missed it. (Lincoln Co, NC Deed Book 18 page 210).
On the next day (25 Feb 1796), John Miller sold another tract of land to John Cross, this one was 225 acres, and also on Kettle Shoal Creek. This deed was also signed in German: "Johannes Muller". (Lincoln Co, NC Deed Book 18 page 211).
The above two deeds obviously represent John Millers intention to move his family to neighboring Buncombe County, and it is likely that they did move around this time (1796). They apparently moved to Sandy Mush Creek (present Buncombe - Madison County border), and acquired land there 2 years later. Several members of the Cross family also moved to Buncombe Co, NC about the same time.
On 16 Nov 1798, John Miller "of Buncombe Co, NC" purchased 200 acres from Joseph Lines Gash, land on the North Side of Sandy Mush Creek, "including old Indian Camp". Witnesses were F. Whitson, and James Gudger. This deed was either recorded twice, or there were two deeds for bordering property. (Buncombe Co, NC Deed Book 8 page 147 and Book 8 page 161).
It would appear that the John Miller family remained on the Sandy Mush land until his death, ca 1819.
John Miller was listed on the 1800 census in Buncombe Co, NC (the only "John Miller" listed that year), there were only two other Miller households in Buncombe in 1800, and neither seem to be related: Andrew Miller (in the present Henderson Co, NC area) and an Isaac Miller (no further data). Unfortunately, the 1800 Buncombe census was alphabetical, so I can't tell where anyone was living approximately, nor who the neighbors were.
1800 census analysis (based on available evidence): (Explanation of this census)
1800 Buncombe Co, NC pg 178 John Miller 32101-11010-0-0 Analysis: 1 Male(s) 45 & up (before 1755) John MILLER (bef 1755) 1 Male(s) 16-25 (1774-1784) John MILLER (c1780) son --> hd 1810 2 Male(s) 10-15 (1784-1790) David H. MILLER (1783/84) son --> hd 1810 Jacob MILLER (1784/90) --> hd 1810 3 Male(s) 0-9 (1790-1800) Joseph MILLER (1790) son Peter MILLER (1794/1800) son Son? (1790/1800) --> gone by 1810 1 Female(s) 26-44 (1755-1774) Mary CROSS Miller (1755/60) wife 1 Female(s) 10-15 (1784-1790) Daughter? (1784/90) --> gone by 1810 1 Female(s) 0-9 (1790-1800) Sarah MILLER (1794) daughter
John Miller was mentioned in a January 1807 court record, where a road jury was named to "view, mark and lay off a road the nearest and best way from John Millers on Sandy Mush to Asheville by the way of John Davis Ferry on French Broad River". (Buncombe Co, NC Court of Pleas and Quarter Sessions, as published in Old Buncombe County Genealogical Society Newsletter)
By the time of the 1810 census, there were three John Millers listed in Buncombe Co, NC, two simply as "John", and one as John "Sr". John "Sr" was our John Miller of Sandy Mush Creek, one of the others was his son, and the third one was down in present Henderson Co, NC, so probably not closely related, if at all. Fortunately, our Millers were all listed in the same grouping. John Miller Sr was listed next to son David, who was next to John's son Jacob, who was two houses from John Miller (Jr). This shows them all on Sandy Mush Creek, possibly all on the same property. Brother-in-law Joseph Cross was just a few houses away also.
1810 census analysis (based on available evidence): (Explanation of this census)
1810 Buncombe Co, NC pg 261 John Miller Sr 01101-12001 Analysis: 1 Male(s) 45 and up (bef 1765) John MILLER (bef 1755) --> died by 1819 1 Male(s) 16-25 (1784-1794) Joseph MILLER (1790) son --> Hd 1820 1 Male(s) 10-15 (1794-1800) Peter MILLER (1794/1800) son --> Hd 1820 1 Female(s) 45 & up (before 1765) Mary CROSS Miller (1755/60) wife 2 Female(s) 10-15 (1794-1800) Sarah MILLER (1794) daughter m ca 1812 Daughter? (1794/1800) * Not in 1800 1 Female(s) 0-9 (1800-1810) Daughter?
John Miller Sr died sometime between 1810 and 13 Aug 1819, for on that date, his sons Joseph and Peter Miller sold 200 acres of his Sandy Mush land to Nathan Worley. The land was described as adjoining David Miller and being the land John Miller formerly lived on. Witnessed by James Gudger. This deed (though not totally clear on the matter) shows that Joseph Miller and Peter Miller were heirs of John Miller. Family Tradition supports this also. (Buncombe Co, NC Deed Book 12 page 465).
I did not find an Estate settlement or other record (besides the 1819 deed) showing the division of John Miller's land. Unfortunately, many of Buncombe County's early records were lost, including many of the early estates and Wills. I can only assume the land was divided up several ways among the heirs, who all sold their interest to Joseph and Peter who in turn sold it to someone else. As far as I can tell, the 200 acres of land was all that John Miller owned, so it seems that Joseph and Peter sold the entire piece of land.
Widow Mary continued to live in Buncombe Co, NC for a time, probably living with one (or several) of her children. Although I found all her sons in 1820 in Buncombe Co, NC, and her married daughter there also, none of them seem to have Mary listed with them. She did not seem to be with any of her children in 1820, though most likely she was with one of them. She had one daughter whom I don't have a husband listed for. That is probably the answer to this puzzle. This daughter (Elizabeth) was supposedly the youngest, and quite probably married by 1820, so I'd wager that Mary was residing with her.
In the early to mid 1820's, some members of the Miller family left Sandy Mush Creek and Buncombe County, and moved west to what is now Macon County, NC (then still part of Haywood County). They settled somewhere on Cowee Creek (north and east of Franklin).
Actually, Mary's first record found there is dated 6 May 1826 when she was received by letter as a member of the First Baptist Church (in Macon Co, NC).
Mary Miller was listed on the membership register for the First Baptist Church beginning with the letter (6 May 1826) and listed as a member in 1827, 1828, 1829, 1830, 1831 and 1832. In June 1833, Mary Miller was on the register, but "died" was next to her name. However, she was not dead, so perhaps I misread that, (perhaps it said "dismissed"), or perhaps these records are for a different Mary Miller (though I doubt that). (First Baptist Church Minutes, Macon Co, NC on Microfilm - NC Archives)
I doubt that Mary Miller moved to Macon Co, NC by herself in 1826. Her son Joseph Miller and daughter Sarah Miller Mason both moved to Macon in the 1820's, and remained there. Birth places of their children show that Joseph was in Macon Co, NC by 1823 (per 1850 census), and that William and Sarah Mason were also there by ca 1823. I know that Mary's sons David and Jacob Miller were there in 1829, but both returned to Buncombe by 1830. Mary may have moved there as early as 1823, but she was there by 1826 for sure.
Mary Miller was listed as head of household on the 1830 census in Macon Co, NC. She was in a household by herself, but next door to son Joseph Miller, and also next to grandson-in-law West Truitt (married to Joseph Miller's daughter Cynthia).
1830 census analysis (based on available evidence): (Explanation of this census)
1830 Macon Co, NC pg 10 Marey Miller 0000000000000-0000000001000 Analysis: 1 Female(s) 70-79 (1750-1760) Mary CROSS Miller (1750/60) wd/o John. d 1843
As previously mentioned, Mary Miller was listed on the membership roster for the First Baptist Church in 1830, 1831 and 1832, but in Jun 1833 was listed as dead (or dismissed). I think dismissed is more likely, as she may have moved about that time, or joined a different church. I believe she transferred to the Cowee Baptist Church about that time.
Mary Miller was not listed on the 1840 census, but someone her age was living with William Mason (her son-in-law), aged 80-89 (born ca 1750/60), so it seems very likely that it was her. (Mason's mother had died before 1840).
Mary Cross Miller died on 19 Sep 1843 in Macon Co, NC, as recorded in the Cowee Baptist Church Minutes. I don't know where Mary is buried, though she could be at Cowee Church in an unmarked grave.
John and Mary (Cross) Miller had at least 7 children. I have not found solid proof for all of these, but I feel fairly sure that this list is mostly accurate. Census records show some additional unknown children.
Unknown Daughter (bef 1790). In the 1790 census, John Miller had 4 females residing with him, presumably a wife and 3 daughters. Of these three daughters, (no ages given), two were no longer at home in 1800, so probably had married or died by then. It is also possible that the females in 1790 were not all children, but could represent other family members (mother, mother-in-law, sister, etc.).
Unknown Daughter (bef 1790). In the 1790 census, John Miller had 4 females residing with him, presumably a wife and 3 daughters. Of these three daughters, (no ages given), two were no longer at home in 1800, so probably had married or died by then. It is also possible that the females in 1790 were not all children, but could represent other family members (mother, mother-in-law, sister, etc.).
John Miller was born ca 1780, either in PA or Lincoln Co, NC (Pennsylvania seems more likely). He is not a proven son of John Miller Sr, but I feel strongly that he is a son. He was always near John Sr and the other members of this family in Buncombe County, so that makes him very likely. John's age varies inconsistently from census record to census record, so I'm not sure when he was born, so I've used "ca 1780" with some reservation.
John Miller was probably at home with his parents in 1790, probably enumerated in the age "16 and up" category (born before 1774). He went with them to Buncombe Co, NC in the 1796-98 timeframe. He was apparently still home with his parents for the 1800 census (age 16-25, born ca 1774/84).
John Miller married someone (I don't know his wife's name) between 1800 and 1810 in Buncombe Co, NC. One of the John Millers had a wife named "Rebecca" as proven by an 1819 deed where they both sold two slaves. However, I don't think that was this John Miller, but I could be wrong.
For the 1810 census, John Miller (Jr) was listed in Buncombe Co, NC, just 5 houses from his father John Sr, and 4 from brother David Miller, 3 from brother Jacob Miller, and he was listed between Philip Angle (Angel?) and Christopher Carver.
1810 census analysis (based on available evidence): (Explanation of this census)
1810 Buncombe Co, NC pg 261/81 John Miller 00010-20100 Analysis: 1 Male(s) 26-44 (1765-1784) John MILLER (c1780) s/o John & Mary 1 Female(s) 16-25 (1784-1794) Wife? (1784/90) 2 Female(s) 0-9 (1800-1810) Daughter? (1804/10) Daughter? (1804/10)
On 16 Sep 1815, John Miller of Buncombe Co, NC purchased 59 acres from John Biffle, land on Lees Mill Creek, West side of French Broad River. Witnessed by Reuben Phillips. I don't know for sure if this deed is for our John Miller (Jr) of perhaps for the other John Miller (c1785) who was in Buncombe County also at this time (a resident of what later became Henderson County). I don't know where Lees Mill Creek is precisely. However, there is a present "Lee Creek" just 5 miles south of Sandy Mush Creek. I wanted to note this deed, just in case it is for our John Miller (Jr), and I am reasonably sure that it is. (Buncombe Co, NC Deed Book 11 page 89).
On the 1820 census in Buncombe County, there were two John Millers listed, this one and the other born ca 1785 (of Henderson Co, NC). Neither John Miller was listed close to any other Millers, but it appears that the first one listed is ours, based on his having 2 daughters in 1820 who's ages line up with those with him in 1810. Based on his neighbors, many of whom I'm related to, he was not too far from where his father had lived on Sandy Mush Creek. Those neighbors include his "next door" neighbors John Prater and John Weatherford, (I'm not related to them, as far as I know), plus other neighbors on the same page, whom I am related to: John Patton Sr, Aaron Cox (my ancestor, who's daughter Sarah married Joseph Miller, who was John Miller's brother), Benjamin Tutt (my ancestor), and Jacob Stuart and John Stuart (my ancestor), who lived on Newfound Creek, which is about 3 miles south of Sandy Mush Creek, and less than a mile north of "Lee Creek", which, assuming it is the same as Lees Mill Creek, makes me confident that this John Miller is ours, and that all of these families were fairly close to each other.
1820 census analysis (based on available evidence): (Explanation of this census)
1820 Buncombe Co, NC pg 68 John Millar 200010-22010 Analysis: 1 Male(s) 26-44 (1775-1794) John MILLER (c1780) s/o John & Mary 2 Male(s) 0-9 (1810-1820) Son? (1810/15) Son? (1810/20) --> gone by 1830 1 Female(s) 26-44 (1775-1794) Wife? (1784/90) 2 Female(s) 10-15 (1804-1810) Daughter? (1804/10) --> gone by 1830 Daughter? (1804/10) --> gone by 1830 2 Female(s) 0-9 (1810-1820) Daughter? (1815/20) Daughter? (1810/20) --> gone by 1830
By 1830, John's mother, and several siblings had moved west to Macon Co, NC, but apparently John did not make that journey, as he was still in Buncombe. Like his brothers David and Jacob, he might have moved there briefly, but returned to Buncombe for one reason or another (though I found no record of him in Macon County at all). There were three John Millers listed on the 1830 census for Buncombe Co, NC, and they are easily distinguished by age and location. The first one being the John (c1785) of Henderson Co, NC, and the second one being much younger than our John, leaving the third one as ours. He wasn't listed near any other Millers, but I'm fairly sure he was still on Lee Creek, even though none of his neighbors from 1820 were still listed as neighbors in 1830 (at least none of the names I mentioned), however, of the nearby names I recognize, many of them were known to live in that part of Buncombe that was near the Madison County line, so that places John Miller in the same general location as before. Besides that, his enumerations in 1830 match up well with his 1820 census entry.
1830 census analysis (based on available evidence): (Explanation of this census)
1830 Buncombe Co, NC pg 273 John Miller 1101001000000-2210001000000 Analysis: 1 Male(s) 40-49 (1780-1790) John MILLER (c1780) s/o John & Mary 1 Male(s) 15-19 (1810-1815) Son? (1810/15) --> gone by 1840 1 Male(s) 5-9 (1820-1825) Son? (1820/25) 1 Male(s) 0-4 (1825-1830) Son? (1825/30) --> gone by 1840 or 1830/35 1 Female(s) 40-49 (1780-1790) Wife? (1784/90) 1 Female(s) 10-14 (1815-1820) Daughter? (1815/20) --> gone by 1840 2 Female(s) 5-9 (1820-1825) Daughter? (1820/25) Daughter? (1820/25) --> gone by 1840 2 Female(s) 0-4 (1825-1830) Daughter? (1825/30) Daughter? (1825/30) --> gone by 1840
In 1835, Congressional Elections were held in Western North Carolina, and the voter lists for Buncombe County have survived. Several members of the Miller family were listed as having voted that year, including just one "John Miller", who was listed as having voted at Free Bridge Precinct. However, I am quite sure that the John who voted was the "other" one, born ca 1785, of present Henderson County, as that is where Free Bridge Precinct was located. Our John Miller (Jr) apparently didn't vote in 1835.
In 1840 Buncombe Co, NC census, there was only one John Miller listed (the other John (c1785) was in the new county of Henderson, which was formed from southern Buncombe in 1838). As before, John Miller was not near any other Millers, but still apparently in the Lee Creek area, as best as I can tell. He was listed between William Alford and E. Burnett Jr.
1840 census analysis (based on available evidence): (Explanation of this census)
1840 Buncombe Co, NC pg 167 John Miller 0101000010000-0111000100000 Analysis: 1 Male(s) 60-69 (1770-1780) John MILLER (c1780) s/o John & Mary 1 Male(s) 15-19 (1820-1825) Son? (1820/25) 1 Male(s) 5-9 (1830-1835) Son? (1830/35) 1 Female(s) 50-59 (1780-1790) Wife? (1784/90) 1 Female(s) 15-19 (1820-1825) Daughter? (1820/25) 1 Female(s) 10-14 (1825-1830) Daughter? (1825/30) 1 Female(s) 5-9 (1830-1835) Daughter? (1830/35)
The 1840 census record is the last that I have for John Miller. He may have died in the 1840/50 timeframe, or perhaps moved away somewhere. I did not find John on the 1850 census in Buncombe Co, NC, nor any apparent widow who could have been his. There were lots of young Millers in 1850 Buncombe of proper age to have been his children, but none that I can positively identify as being his.
There were numerous deed records in Buncombe County to "John Miller" from the 1780's on up through the 1830's, and in about half the cases, I don't know which John Miller was being referenced. I have only studied the briefest of abstracts of these deeds, and not the actual deeds themselves, so perhaps more is waiting to be discovered about this John Miller.
David H. Miller was born ca 1783/84 in PA. He is not a proven son of John Miller Sr, but I feel strongly that he is a son. He was always near John Sr and the other members of this family in Buncombe County, so that makes him very likely. His property bordered John Millers, and John did have an apparent son this age, and David was associated with John's other children. Family Tradition also places a "David" in this family.
Before I begin my commentary on David Miller, I should note that I found a write-up of this family in "Heritage of Buncombe County, North Carolina" Volume II, which contained data on David and his two wives, and their several children. This article (I can't find the authors name at the moment) stated that David H. Miller was a son of an older David Miller, but I have found no evidence to support this. It could certainly be correct, but no documentation was offered, and I have not found any older David Miller in the area who could be his father. I feel strongly that David was a son of John Miller, but have no direct evidence, but the circumstantial evidence is strong, and compelling. The article I mentioned contains the names of eleven children for David Miller, but I don't know what proof there is for all of them (though some I can confirm). The list seems accurate though.
David H. Miller was probably at home with his parents in 1790, enumerated in the age "under 16" category (born 1774/1790). He went with them to Buncombe Co, NC in the 1796-98 timeframe. He was apparently still home with his parents for the 1800 census (age 10-15, born ca 1784/90).
David H. Miller married Catherine Worley ca 1800/1803 in Buncombe Co, NC. Her maiden name is given in the Article I mentioned previously, but I don't know what the proof for it is. She was born ca 1784/94. I don't know who her parents were. There was a Francis Wordley listed in 1800 Buncombe, who might be her father. He was the only one of that surname there. He had an apparent daughter her age with him in 1800, so it works. Just an assumption though. In 1810, he was not there, but a Nathan and Joseph Wordley was listed there, both the right age to be her older brothers (another assumption). These Wordleys were in the same vicinity as the Millers, so these are probably related to Catherine in some way.
David and Catherine Miller were listed as founding members of the Newfound Baptist Church in 1803. Newfound Creek was just three or four miles south of Sandy Mush Creek where the John Miller family resided. Presumably, David and Catherine lived somewhere in that general vicinity.
David Miller was listed on the 1810 census in Buncombe Co, NC between his father John Miller Sr and his brother Jacob Miller.
1810 census analysis (based on available evidence): (Explanation of this census)
1810 Buncombe Co, NC pg 261 David Miller 20010-20100 Analysis: 1 Male(s) 26-44 (1765-1784) David H. MILLER (1783/84) s/o John & Mary 2 Male(s) 0-9 (1800-1810) Joseph MILLER (1804/05) son Frank MILLER (1804/10) son 1 Female(s) 16-25 (1784-1794) Catherine WORLEY Miller (1784/94) wife 2 Female(s) 0-9 (1800-1810) Mary MILLER (1804) daughter Easter MILLER (1806/07) daughter
On 6 Feb 1819, David Miller purchased 294 acres from Henry West, the land was on Whitsons Creek. I have not been able to locate this creek on a map or in the North Carolina Gazetteer, but I suspect it is somewhere close to Sandy Mush Creek. It may have been given a new name since then. (Buncombe Co, NC Deed Book 77 page 402).
On 13 Aug 1819, David's brothers Joseph and Peter Miller sold their father's 200 acres of Sandy Mush property to Nathan Worley (perhaps David's brother-in-law). The land was described as bordering David Millers. I don't know if the adjoining property was that David had just purchased on Whitsons Creek, or another tract. (Buncombe Co, NC Deed Book 12 page 465).
David Miller was listed on the 1820 census in Buncombe Co, NC, probably living on Whitsons Creek. (Joseph Whitson just a few houses away). Nathan Worley, possible brother-in-law, was a few houses away. David was listed between Adam Eller and John Penland.
1820 census analysis (based on available evidence): (Explanation of this census)
1820 Buncombe Co, NC pg 84 David Miller 120010-21110 Analysis: 1 Male(s) 26-44 (1775-1794) David H. MILLER (1783/84) s/o John & Mary 2 Male(s) 10-15 (1804-1810) Joseph MILLER (1804/05) son --> Hd 1830 Frank MILLER (1804/10) son --> gone by 1830 1 Male(s) 0-9 (1810-1820) Nathan MILLER (1815/20) son 1 Female(s) 26-44 (1775-1794) Catherine WORLEY Miller (1775/94) wife 1 Female(s) 16-25 (1794-1804) Mary MILLER (1804) daughter --> m by 1830 1 Female(s) 10-15 (1804-1810) Easter MILLER (1806/07) daughter m by 1830 2 Female(s) 0-9 (1810-1820) Elizabeth E. MILLER (1814/15) daughter Caroline MILLER (1810/20) daughter
Catherine Worley Miller died sometime between ca 1820 and ca 1824 in Buncombe Co, NC.
David H. Miller married again ca 1820/24 to Rachel Harrison, presumably in Buncombe Co, NC. The article I mentioned earlier is the source for her maiden name. I don't know what evidence there is backing it up though. The same article lists her parents as Joseph Harrison and Margaret Hill. Rachel was born ca 1795 in North Carolina. Back in the 1800 census, there was a John and a Thomas Harrison listed in Buncombe, but no Joseph. In 1810, there was a Nathaniel and a Jeremiah Harrison in Buncombe, but again, no Joseph. In 1820, there was a widow Margaret Harrison listed in Buncombe Co, NC. The article mentioned that Rachel Harrison had been previously married to William Snelson. A widow Rachel Nelson was listed two houses from widow Margaret Harrison, so Rachel's first husband had apparently died by 1820.
On 24 Oct 1826, Joseph Miller (either David's brother Joseph, or his son Joseph, don't know which one) sold David Miller 100 acres of land on Whitsons Creek. Witnesses were James W. Patton and William M. Davidson. (Buncombe Co, NC Deed Book 15 page 279).
David's mother Mary, and his brother Joseph and sister Sarah all moved to Macon Co, NC ca 1823 or thereabouts. It appears that David moved there also, but only briefly, and for one reason or another, returned to Buncombe County. Proof that he was in Macon Co, NC is in the form of a June 1829 Macon County Court Record naming David Miller and Jacob Miller (his brother) as members of road crew to work the road from Cowee Mountain via Tathams Camp and Rabbit Creeks. This was the same area where David's brother Joseph Miller and mother Mary lived (Cowee Creek). Coincidentally, or not, both David and Jacob were back in Buncombe County by 1830. (Macon Co, NC Court Minutes 1829-1832 page 39, page 40).
The 1829 Court record is the only mention I found for David Miller in Macon Co, NC. He was back in Buncombe County for the 1830 census. He may have gone to Macon Co, NC by himself, leaving wife and children at home, in order to improve some land for a land grant, but decided he didn't like the area, so returned to Buncombe. It is also possible that this record of David Miller in Macon Co, NC is some other David Miller, but I doubt this, since he was mentioned in conjunction with Jacob Miller (his brother), and in the same area as brother Joseph and mother Mary.
David Miller was listed on the 1830 census in Buncombe County, NC. He was listed between Asaph Ray and Thomas Randall. Son Joseph Miller was a few houses away. David Miller seems to have at least one "extra" child with him in 1830, who could be one of Rachel's from her previous marriage.
1830 census analysis (based on available evidence): (Explanation of this census)
1830 Buncombe Co, NC pg 270 David Miller 2220001000000-1010001000000 Analysis: 1 Male(s) 40-49 (1780-1790) David H. MILLER (1783/84) s/o John & Mary 2 Male(s) 10-14 (1815-1820) Nathan MILLER (1815/20) son --> Hd 1840 Son? (1815/20) * not in 1820 --> gone by 1840 2 Male(s) 5-9 (1820-1825) Son? (1820/25) --> gone by 1840 Gabriel P. MILLER (1824/25) son 2 Male(s) 0-4 (1825-1830) Son? (1825/30) --> gone by 1840 James Mitchell MILLER (1827/28) son 1 Female(s) 40-49 (1780-1790) Rachel HARRISON Miller (1794/95) wife 1 Female(s) 10-14 (1815-1820) Nancy MILLER (1820) daughter 1 Female(s) 0-4 (1825-1830) Catherine MILLER (1828) daughter
Sometime in 1830, (no full date, but was recorded 8 Apr 1831) David Miller sold 123 acres on Whitsons Creek to his son Joseph Miller. (Buncombe Co, NC Deed Book 16 page 254).
David Miller was listed as a Voter in the 1835 Congressional elections, and having voted in Asheville Precinct. (His son Joseph, and brother Peter Miller also voted in this precinct that year).
David Miller was listed on the 1840 census in Buncombe Co, NC listed between James Hemphil and James Brevard, but not real close to any other Millers.
1840 census analysis (based on available evidence): (Explanation of this census)
1840 Buncombe Co, NC pg 145 D. H. Miller 0011100100000-0011001000000 Analysis: 1 Male(s) 50-59 (1780-1790) David H. MILLER (1783/84) s/o John & Mary 1 Male(s) 20-29 (1810-1820) Son? (1815/20) --> gone by 1850 1 Male(s) 15-19 (1820-1825) Gabriel P. MILLER (1824/25) son 1 Male(s) 10-14 (1825-1830) James Mitchell MILLER (1827/28) son 1 Female(s) 40-49 (1790-1800) Rachel HARRISON Miller (1794/95) wife 1 Female(s) 15-19 (1820-1825) Nancy MILLER (1821/22) daughter 1 Female(s) 10-14 (1825-1830) Catherine MILLER (1828) daughter
On 30 Aug 1844, William Gudger sold David Miller 100 acres on Whitsons Creek. (Buncombe Co, NC Deed Book 23 page 96).
On 5 Jun 1847, David Miller sold James M. Miller (his son) 100 acres on Whitsons Creek. (Buncombe Co, NC Deed Book 23 page 96).
On the same date (5 Jun 1847), David Miller sold Gabriel P. Miller (his son) 100 acres on Whitsons Creek. (Buncombe Co, NC Deed Book 23 page 96).
David and Rachel and two children were listed on the 1850 census in Buncombe Co, NC. Peter Miller (c1802) was just a couple of households away, but I don't believe it was his brother Peter Miller, but another one instead (but I could be wrong).
1850 BUNCOMBE CO, NC Page 282B House/Family # 1161/1161 MILLER D H 66 M W FARMER 500 PA 1783/1784 MILLER RACHEL 55 F W NC 1794/1795 MILLER ROSELLA 30 F W NC 1819/1820 MILLER JAMES M 22 M W NC 1827/1828
** David Miller was probably still listed in Buncombe for the 1860 census, but I have not checked yet.
According to the article I mentioned earlier, David H. Miller died on 20 May 1862 in Buncombe Co, NC. I don't know if he left a Will or any kind of Estate records.
Also according to the article, Rachel Harrison Miller died on 22 Aug 1873.
David and Catherine had 8 children, per the Article. I've seen no primary evidence proving any of these children, but the list from the article seems reasonable and accurate, based on circumstantial evidence. David and his second wife Rachel had 3 children together, same evidence. Rachel may have had one or more children from her previous marriage also. I don't know what sources the author of the article had for this family, but it would be good to know.
Jacob Miller was born ca 1784/90, either in PA or Lincoln Co, NC (don't know which). He is not a proven son of John Miller Sr, but I feel strongly that he is a son. He was always near John Sr and the other members of this family in Buncombe County, so that makes him very likely. Family Tradition also places a "Jacob" in this family, so it all fits.
Jacob Miller was probably at home with his parents in 1790, probably enumerated in the age "under 16" category (born 1774/1790). He went with them to Buncombe Co, NC in the 1796-98 timeframe. He was apparently still home with his parents for the 1800 census (age 10-15, born ca 1784/90).
Jacob Miller married someone (I don't know his wife's name) between 1800 and 1810 in Buncombe Co, NC. There was a "Sarah Miller" listed as one of the founding members of Newfound Baptist Church, and it is possible that she was Jacob's wife, but I don't know that for sure.
For the 1810 census, Jacob Miller was listed in Buncombe Co, NC, between David Miller (his brother), and Philip Angle (Angel), and two houses from his father John Miller Sr, and his brother John Miller (Jr).
1810 census analysis (based on available evidence): (Explanation of this census)
1810 Buncombe Co, NC pg 261/81 Jacob Miller 00100-20100-0-0 Analysis: 1 Male(s) 16-25 (1784-1794) Jacob MILLER (1784/90) s/o John & Mary 1 Female(s) 16-25 (1784-1794) Wife? (1780/84) 2 Female(s) 0-9 (1800-1810) Daughter? (1804/10) Daughter? (1804/10)
On the 1820 census in Buncombe County, Jacob Miller was listed 3 houses from his brother Joseph Miller. Jacob was listed between John Ingle and John Shope Jr. Most of the neighbors (that I recognized) were known residents of Avery Creek and or McDowell Creek, or near there, in present Buncombe and also in present Henderson Co, NC. This is area was about 10 miles south of the Sandy Mush Creek region. This may mean that Jacob had moved down to that region in the 1810-20 timeframe. I found no deeds for him at all in that timeframe, so I can't confirm where he was living. The census does make it appear that he was somewhere close to Avery Creek though, and not so close to Sandy Mush Creek.
1820 census analysis (based on available evidence): (Explanation of this census)
1820 Buncombe Co, NC pg 128 Jacob Millar 300010-22010 Analysis: 1 Male(s) 26-44 (1775-1794) Jacob MILLER (1784/90) s/o John & Mary 3 Male(s) 0-9 (1810-1820) Son? (1810/15) Son? (1810/15) Son? (1810/15) 1 Female(s) 26-44 (1775-1794) Wife? (1780/84) 2 Female(s) 10-15 (1804-1810) Daughter? (1804/10) --> gone by 1830 Daughter? (1804/10) --> gone by 1830 2 Female(s) 0-9 (1810-1820) Daughter? (1815/20) Daughter? (1815/20)
Jacob Miller's mother Mary, and his brother Joseph and sister Sarah all moved to Macon Co, NC ca 1823 or thereabouts. It appears that Jacob moved there also, but only briefly, and for one reason or another, returned to Buncombe County. Proof that he was in Macon Co, NC is in the form of a June 1829 Macon County Court Record naming David Miller (his brother) and Jacob Miller as members of road crew to work the road from Cowee Mountain via Tathams Camp and Rabbit Creeks. This was the same area where Jacob's brother Joseph Miller and mother Mary lived (Cowee Creek). Coincidentally, or not, both David and Jacob were back in Buncombe County by 1830. (Macon Co, NC Court Minutes 1829-1832 page 39, page 40).
The 1829 Court record is the only mention I found for Jacob Miller in Macon Co, NC. He was back in Buncombe County for the 1830 census. He may have gone to Macon Co, NC by himself, leaving wife and children at home, in order to improve some land for a land grant, but decided he didn't like the area, so returned to Buncombe. It is also possible that this record of Jacob Miller in Macon Co, NC is some other Jacob Miller, but I doubt this, since he was mentioned in conjunction with David Miller (his brother), and in the same area as brother Joseph and mother Mary.
Jacob Miller was back in Buncombe for the 1830 census, in fact, there were two Jacob Millers listed that year. The other one had a very small family, and was slightly younger than this Jacob. Our Jacob Miller seemed to be back close to the Sandy Mush Creek region, or possibly somewhere near Ivy Creek in the Buncombe and (present) Madison County border area, on the east side of French Broad River. I can't be sure of this though. More analysis is required. Jacob's neighbors were Phillip Creasman and Joseph? Gudger.
1830 census analysis (based on available evidence): (Explanation of this census)
1830 Buncombe Co, NC pg 236 Jacob Miller 3103001000000-0230001000000 Analysis: 1 Male(s) 40-49 (1780-1790) Jacob MILLER (1784/90) s/o John & Mary 3 Male(s) 15-19 (1810-1815) Son? (1810/15) Son? (1810/15) Son? (1810/15) 1 Male(s) 5-9 (1820-1825) Son? (1820/25) 3 Male(s) 0-4 (1825-1830) Son? (1825/30) Son? (1825/30) Son? (1825/30) 1 Female(s) 40-49 (1780-1790) Wife? (1780/84) 3 Female(s) 10-14 (1815-1820) Daughter? (1815/20) Daughter? (1815/20) Daughter? (1815/20) * Not in 1820 2 Female(s) 5-9 (1820-1825) Daughter? (1820/25) Daughter? (1820/25)
On 4 Oct 1830, Jacob Miller deeded 100 acres on Whitsons Creek to William Gudger Jr. I do not know when or how Jacob acquired this land. (Buncombe Co, NC Deed Book 20 page 170).
The above record is the very last I've found for Jacob Miller. He was not listed on the 1835 voter list in Buncombe nor Macon Co, NC. He was not listed on the 1840 census in Western NC, as far as I've been able to find. My guess is that Jacob either died, or migrated to another state. If he died, there should be some evidence for widow and children in the area, but my opinion is that he moved away.
Unknown Daughter (1784/90). John Miller had an apparent daughter this age. She was apparently with him in 1790 (no ages given; born before 1790), and home in 1800 (age 10-15, born ca 1784/90). She was gone by 1810, so either married or dead by then.
Joseph Miller was born 10 May 1790 in Lincoln Co, NC (per 1850 and 1860 census). He is a proven son of John Miller Sr, based on both family tradition, and on documentation.
Joseph Miller was twice married, first to Sarah Cox, and second to Susanna Tabitha Grant. See their own page for more information on this family.
Unknown Son (1790/1800). John Miller had an apparent son this age. He was apparently with his parents in 1800, age "under 10". He was gone by 1810, so either married or moved away by then.
Sarah Miller was born ca 1799/1800 (per 1850 census) or more likely, ca 1793/94 (per 1860 census) in Lincoln Co, NC (per 1850 and 1860 census). She is a proven child of John and Mary, and named as such in her death record (Cowee Baptist Church Records).
Sarah Miller was probably at home with her parents in 1800, enumerated in the age "under 10" category (born 1790/1800). She was apparently still home with parents for the 1810 census (age 10-15, born ca 1794/1800).
Sarah Miller married William Mason between 1810 and ca 1812 in Buncombe Co, NC. William was born ca 1788/89 in Lincoln Co, NC. An article by David H. Reece in the "Heritage of Macon County, North Carolina", gives William's parents as Peter Mason and Mary Williams. This same article gives data on some of the children of William and Sarah.
William Mason was listed on the 1820 census in Buncombe Co, NC. He was not listed close to any Millers, but probably in the same general area. He was listed between James Wells and Robert Bell. His was the only Mason household listed in 1820 Buncombe, suggesting that his parents were elsewhere at this time.
1820 census analysis (based on available evidence): (Explanation of this census)
1820 Buncombe Co, NC pg 72 William Mason 100100-40110 Analysis: 1 Male(s) 16-25 (1794-1804) William MASON (1788/89) 1 Male(s) 0-9 (1810-1820) John MASON (1811/12) son 1 Female(s) 26-44 (1775-1794) Sarah MILLER Mason (1793/94) wife 1 Female(s) 16-25 (1794-1804) Sister? Elizabeth MILLER (1799) sister-in-law 4 Female(s) 0-9 (1810-1820) Elizabeth MASON (1812) daughter Mary MASON (1817) daughter Daughter? Daughter?
William and Sarah and family moved to Macon Co, NC sometime ca 1820/23. They apparently were back in Buncombe by 1825, but back in Macon Co, NC again by 1829 (this is based on the birth places of their children). William and Sarah and family, and Sarah's brother Joseph Miller, and their mother Mary moved to Cowee Creek in Macon Co, NC.
In June 1829, Joseph Miller and William Mayson were both named in Macon County Court, as "hands" (workers) under B. S. Brittain, overseer of Lot # 3 to Lot # 2 (presumably a road). They were listed as "excepted", meaning they were excused for some reason or another. (Macon Co, NC Court Minutes 1829-1832 page 41).
William Mason was listed on the 1830 census in Macon Co, NC. He was listed between Gideon F. Morris and Joseph Johnson.
1830 census analysis (based on available evidence): (Explanation of this census)
1830 Macon Co, NC pg 32 William Mason 2001010000000-0220010000000 Analysis: 1 Male(s) 30-39 (1790-1800) William MASON (1788/89) 1 Male(s) 15-19 (1810-1815) John MASON (1811/12) son 2 Male(s) 0-4 (1825-1830) Joseph B. MASON (1823/24) son Peter MASON (1828/29) son 1 Female(s) 30-39 (1790-1800) Sarah MILLER Mason (1793/94) wife 2 Female(s) 10-14 (1815-1820) Elizabeth MASON (1812) daughter Mary MASON (1817) daughter 2 Female(s) 5-9 (1820-1825) Cynthia MASON (1823/24) daughter Caroline MASON (1824/25) daughter
William Mason was listed on the 1840 census in Macon Co, NC between Solomon Truitt and John Scroggs. He was badly mis-enumerated, listed (apparently) in the 60-69 age group (born ca 1770/80). Almost all of the family was enumerated incorrectly, so it would seem that the census taker got his data from a neighbor, or a family member who wasn't very knowledgeable. It would seem (if the data is partially reliable) that William's widowed father Peter was residing with them (or someone his age), and Sarah's widowed mother Mary Miller also (or someone her age).
1840 census analysis (based on available evidence): (Explanation of this census)
1840 Macon Co, NC pg 145 William Mason 0021100010010-0000401000100 Analysis: 1 Male(s) 90-99 (1740-1750) Peter MASON (1740/50) father 1 Male(s) 60-69 (1770-1780) William MASON (1788/89) 1 Male(s) 20-29 (1810-1820) Son? 1 Male(s) 15-19 (1820-1825) Joseph B. MASON (1823/24) son 2 Male(s) 10-14 (1825-1830) Peter MASON (1828/29) son William MASON (1833/34) son 1 Female(s) 80-89 (1750-1760) Mary CROSS Miller (1755/60) mother-in-law 1 Female(s) 40-49 (1790-1800) Sarah MILLER Mason (1793/94) wife 4 Female(s) 20-29 (1810-1820) Caroline MASON (1824/25) daughter Daughter? Daughter? Daughter?
William Mason was named several times in the 1840's in the Macon County Court Minutes on juries, and road crews, etc.
William and Sarah were listed on the 1850 census in Macon Co, NC, listed next to son Peter Mason, and next to daughter Elizabeth Low.
1850 MACON CO, NC Page 361 House/Family # 605/ 617 MASON WILLIAM 61 M W FARMER 250 LINCOLN CO, NC 1788/1789 MASON SALLY 50 F W LINCOLN CO, NC 1799/1800 MASON CAROLINE 25 F W BUNCOMBE CO, NC 1824/1825 MASON WILLIAM 16 M W MACON CO, NC 1833/1834 MASON JANE 10 F W MACON CO, NC 1839/1840
William and Sarah were listed on the 1860 census in Macon Co, NC in Cowee Township. ** I don't have this typed up yet.
** They were probably listed on the 1870 census as well.
William Mason died sometime before 1880, for on the 1880 census, Sarah Mason was listed as a widow living with her daughter Elizabeth Low in Macon Co, NC. Unfortunately, Sarah's birth place information was not listed, which could have revealed what state her parents were born in. ** I don't have this 1880 census entry typed up yet.
Sarah Miller Mason died on 28 Feb 1882 as recorded in the Cowee Baptist Church Records, listing her as "Sarah Mason", daughter of "John and Mary Miller", and wife of William Mason.
Peter Miller was born ca 1794/1800 in either in Lincoln or Buncombe Co, NC (don't know which). He is not a proven son of John Miller Sr, but I feel strongly that he is a son. He was always near John Sr and the other members of this family in Buncombe County, so that makes him very likely. Family Tradition also places a "Peter" in this family, so it all fits.
Peter Miller was probably at home with his parents in 1800, enumerated in the age "under 10" category (born 1790/1800). He was apparently still home with his parents for the 1810 census (age 10-15, born ca 1794/1800).
Peter Miller married someone, name unknown, between 1810 and 1820. She was born ca 1794/1800 per the various census records available.
On 17 Feb 1816 John Harrison deeded 150 acres to Peter Miller, land on French Broad River. John Harrison could possibly be related to Peter's sister-in-law Rachel Harrison Miller (2nd wife of David Miller). Later when Peter sold this land, it was described as being on Bridge Branch. Don't know where that is specifically. (Buncombe Co, NC Deed Book 11 page 305).
On 27 Mar 1818, John Carsey deeded Peter Miller 100 acres on Lees Mill Creek (probably Lee Creek today). Peter's older brother John Miller also had land on Lees Mill Creek. This is just about 3 or 4 miles south of Sandy Mush Creek. (Buncombe Co, NC Deed Book 20 page 144).
On 25 Jul 1818, Peter Miller sold 150 acres on Bridge Branch to William Grantham. (Buncombe Co, NC Deed Book 13 page 92).
On 13 Aug 1819, Joseph Miller and Peter Miller, together, sold their late father John Miller's land on Sandy Mush Creek to Nathan Worley. This deed was witnessed by James Gudger. This deed shows that Peter and Joseph were heirs of John Miller. (Buncombe Co, NC Deed Book 12 page 465).
On the 1820 census in Buncombe County, Peter Miller was listed between George Patton and David Cresson, though not near any other Millers.
1820 census analysis (based on available evidence): (Explanation of this census)
1820 Buncombe Co, NC pg 82 Peter Miller 210100-20100 Analysis: 1 Male(s) 16-25 (1794-1804) Peter MILLER (1794/1800) s/o John & Mary 1 Male(s) 10-15 (1804-1810) Brother? Br-in-law? (1804/10) --> gone by 1830 2 Male(s) 0-9 (1810-1820) Son? (1810/20) --> gone by 1830 Son? (1815/20) 1 Female(s) 16-25 (1794-1804) Wife? 2 Female(s) 0-9 (1810-1820) Daughter? (1815/20) Daughter? (1815/20)
Peter Miller's mother Mary, and his brother Joseph and sister Sarah all moved to Macon Co, NC ca 1823 or thereabouts. It appears that Peter did not follow them, but remained in Buncombe County instead.
Peter Miller was listed on the 1830 census in Buncombe Co, NC, not close to any other Millers. He was listed between John Imbler? and John Pender.
1830 census analysis (based on available evidence): (Explanation of this census)
1830 Buncombe Co, NC pg 258 Peter Miller 2110010000000-2020010000000 Analysis: 1 Male(s) 30-39 (1790-1800) Peter MILLER (1794/1800) s/o John & Mary 1 Male(s) 10-14 (1815-1820) Son? (1815/20) --> gone by 1840 1 Male(s) 5-9 (1820-1825) Son? (1820/25) --> gone by 1840 2 Male(s) 0-4 (1825-1830) Son? (1825/30) Son? (1825/30) 1 Female(s) 30-39 (1790-1800) Wife? 2 Female(s) 10-14 (1815-1820) Daughter? (1815/20) --> gone by 1840 Daughter? (1815/20) --> gone by 1840 2 Female(s) 0-4 (1825-1830) Daughter? (1825/30) --> gone by 1840 Daughter? (1825/30) --> gone by 1840
Peter Miller was listed as a voter in the 1835 Congressional elections. He voted in Buncombe County in Asheville precinct, as did his brother David Miller, and David's son Joseph Miller.
For the 1840 census, there were two Peter Millers listed, both roughly the same age (actually, neither one was listed as "Peter", but one was "P. Miller" and the other "Pet. Miller", though from extrapolation, it is clear both were named Peter Miller). Both Peters were in the same age category, but the first one ("P. Miller") is a much better match, based on children's ages and so forth, and the second Peter Miller is most likely Peter Miller (c1801) who was still in Buncombe in 1850.
However, there is some problem (or confusion) here for me (and other researchers too, apparently). The problem is some confusion between the two Peter Millers (but only starting ca 1840, as before that, the younger Peter Miller was not in Buncombe County). First, some background: Peter Miller (c1801) is a son of Henry and Mary Ann Margaret Maulk Miller (of Haywood and Buncombe Co, NC). This Peter (c1801) had a brother George Miller (John George Miller) born 1804. Peter and George (and their parents, etc) were on Beaverdam Creek in neighboring Haywood County until ca 1836 when they all seemed to move into Buncombe County, somewhat near our Peter Miller (c1794/1800).
In 1840, "P. Miller" was listed in Buncombe, just a few houses from George Miller (1804) brother of Peter (1801). At first look, this would seem to suggest that "P. Miller" was Peter Miller (1801), but the census enumerations don't agree with his known family, but match rather well with our Peter Miller (1794/1800). "Pet. Miller" was many pages away, but listed very close to Henry Miller (1806), another brother to George and Peter (1801).
What I'm getting at here is that I am reasonably sure that "P. Miller" is our Peter Miller (1794/1800), though others have claimed him as Peter Miller (1801) instead.
There are several deeds for "Peter Miller" in the late 1830's and the 1840's, though I'm not totally sure, I believe most of them are for the younger Peter Miller (1801). But since they lived in the same general area (west of the French Broad River, and west of Asheville), there may be some confusion about which was which.
"P. Miller", in 1840, was listed between Obed Ledford and E. Tate, and as noted earlier, not too far from George Miller (1804), no known relation.
1840 census analysis (based on available evidence): (Explanation of this census)
1840 Buncombe Co, NC pg 139 P. Miller 1020001000000-0100001000000 Analysis: 1 Male(s) 40-49 (1790-1800) Peter MILLER (1794/1800) s/o John & Mary 2 Male(s) 10-14 (1825-1830) Son? (1825/30) Son? (1825/30) 1 Male(s) 0-4 (1835-1840) Son? (1835/40) 1 Female(s) 40-49 (1790-1800) Wife? 1 Female(s) 5-9 (1830-1835) Daughter? (1830/35)
On 15 Jan 1841, Peter Miller sold some land on Lees Mill Creek to George Starns. The abstract did not include acreage, so I don't know if Peter was selling all his land, or just some of it. (Buncombe Co, NC Deed Book 22 page 305).
The above record is the last I found for this Peter Miller in Buncombe County. He seems to have migrated somewhere after this. I haven't found him yet, so I don't know where he might have gone to, perhaps the same place his brother Jacob went (which is also unknown).
Elizabeth Miller was born ca 1799 or so, presumably in Buncombe Co, NC. I do not have a primary source for this daughter, nor her birth year. Her name was apparently known from family tradition or some other early source. The 1800 census record for her parents do not include this daughter (only one in the right age group, and that has to be Sarah, instead). In 1810, Elizabeth may be at home in the 10-15 age group (born ca 1794/1800). She may have been residing with her brother-in-law William Mason and sister Sarah Miller Mason in 1820, as they had an "extra" female with them, her age (age 16-25, born ca 1794/1804).
I don't know what became of her, nor who she married.
Unknown Daughter (1800/10). John Miller had an apparent daughter this age. She was apparently with her parents in 1810, age "under 10" (born ca 1800/10). Since John was dead by 1820, and I did not locate widow Mary, I don't know if this daughter was still around then or not.
Persons researching this family (click here for data on how to get on or off of this list):
This Report is fairly large and it made this page too slow, so I've put the Register Report on a separate page. Click here. It is very large, so it might take awhile to load, depending on your connection speed.