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I (Marty Grant) am a 5th Great Grandson of Joseph and Sarah (Cox) Miller (and a 1st cousin 5 times removed to Susanna Tabitha Grant, Joseph Miller's second wife).
Special thanks to cousins Lawrence Wood, Helen Miller Kemeny, Claire Morelli, Valerie Duvefelt and others for data shared on this family.
Joseph Miller was born 10 May 1790 in Lincoln Co, NC. His birth place is proven by both the 1850 and 1860 Macon Co, NC census records, which thankfully gave the full birth places for all residents.
I don't know the source for this birth date, though. I originally obtained it from Claire Morelli, who in turn, I believe, got it from her Aunt Helen Kemeny. The earliest family group sheets with this data contains references to "various family bibles", so I can only assume this date was in one of them. This date works well with Joseph's 1850 census entry (age 60), and also works with most of his earlier census entries, however, after 1850, he got successively older each census year: age 71 in 1860, or born ca 1788/89; age 85 in 1870, born ca 1784/85. He died in 1880, and his tombstone gives his age at death as "89", which works out to ca 1790/1791, so that agrees. His obituary (published a month later) gives his age as "98", and also messes up his name, giving it as "Joel" instead of Joseph, so obviously not too reliable.
Joseph Miller is a son of John Miller and Mary Cross. This fact was known among Joseph's children and grandchildren (as shared with Helen Kemeny and others of her generation), and it seems to be proven by an 1819 deed in Buncombe County, NC where both Joseph Miller and Peter Miller (presumably his brother) sold their father John Miller's land on Sandy Mush Creek. No deeds were found showing how Joseph Miller acquired this land from John, though deeds exist showing John acquiring it. Heir-ship of property is generally accepted as proof of descent, and of course other circumstantial evidence all points to John and Mary as Joseph's parents.
The Millers apparently lived on "Kettle Shoal Creek" in Lincoln County, NC, which is likely the same as present "Rattle Shoal Creek" in modern Gaston County. Presumably this is where Joseph was born. In the 1796-1798 timeframe, John Miller and family left Lincoln County and moved to nearby Buncombe County, settling on Sandy Mush Creek. This is where Joseph would have grown up.
Joseph Miller was probably home with his parents for the 1800 census, enumerated in the age "under 10" category (born ca 1790/1800).
Joseph Miller was probably still home with his parents for the 1810 census, enumerated in the 16-25 age group (born ca 1784/94).
Joseph Miller married Sarah Cox sometime between 1810 and ca 1812, in Buncombe Co, NC. Her maiden name is unproven, as far as I know, but family tradition among several branches of Joseph's family says that she was a "Cox", (this tradition was also known in my own branch of the family, though it was somewhat mixed up with the details, it did gave her name as "Cox"). Sarah Cox was born ca 1794/1800, probably in Lincoln Co, NC. I don't know what proof was used, but early researchers list her as a child of Aaron Cox and Olly Baker. I have found no direct evidence proving this, but the circumstantial evidence is quite strong. First of all, Aaron Cox did move very close to the Millers in Buncombe County, NC (on Lees Mill Creek) around 1805-1808, and they did have an apparent daughter Sarah's age. Also, Joseph and Sarah named a son "Aaron" and a daughter "Olly", names that weren't used in other branches of the Miller family. In the 1810-1812 timeframe, there were only two Cox families in Buncombe, one was Aaron Cox, the other was a "John Cocks", who had a family, but no daughters Sarah's age (John might be Aaron's son).
Joseph's father John Miller Sr died sometime before 13 Aug 1819, for on that date, 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. (Buncombe Co, NC Deed Book 12 page 465).
Joseph Miller somehow acquired 100 acres on Whitsons Creek, though I did not find a deed for this (he sold it in 1826, see below for more info on that). This is the same creek his supposed brother David Miller resided on, and was probably very close to Sandy Mush Creek (though I have yet to find this on a map). I don't know when he got this land.
Joseph Miller was listed on the 1820 census in Buncombe County, NC, just three houses from his supposed brother Jacob Miller. He was listed between John Shope Sr and Betsy Burnett. I recognized many of the nearby names as residents of Avery Creek and vicinity (including McDowell Creek in present Henderson Co, NC). Benjamin Cross (perhaps a 1st cousin) was just 5 houses away from Joseph.
1820 census analysis (based on available evidence): (Explanation of this census)
1820 Buncombe Co, NC pg 128 Joseph Millar 300100-30100 Analysis: 1 Male(s) 16-25 (1794-1804) Joseph MILLER (1790) s/o John & Mary 3 Male(s) 0-9 (1810-1820) Noah MILLER (1813) son Peter MILLER (1814/15) son Aaron MILLER (1815) son 1 Female(s) 16-25 (1794-1804) Sarah COX Miller (1794/1800) wife 3 Female(s) 0-9 (1810-1820) Cynthia MILLER (1811/12) daughter m 1827 Mary MILLER (1813/14) daughter Rachel MILLER (1819/20) daughter
Joseph Miller and family left Buncombe County between 1820 and ca 1823, and moved west to Cowee Creek (then still part of Haywood Co, NC, but shortly afterwards became Macon County). His sister Sarah Mason and her family also came, and their widowed mother Mary Cross Miller came also, all initially living on Cowee Creek.
Joseph's wife Sarah joined the First Baptist Church (received by letter dated 2 Sep 1826). Her name was on the membership lists until 1835 (the year she died). Joseph Miller did not join the church, apparently, for his name did not appear on the register, though his wife did, and his mother Mary did also. It has occurred to me that this "Sarah Miller" listed there might be some other Sarah Miller, but I don't know who, if not Joseph's wife.
On 24 Oct 1826 Joseph Miller sold 100 acres of land on Whitsons Creek to David Miller (his supposed brother). Witnesses were James W. Patton and William M. Davidson. I have checked this original deed to see if it listed Joseph's county of residence, but the deed was in Buncombe County. I don't know when he obtained this land. (Buncombe Co, NC Deed Book 15 page 279).
Sarah Miller was listed on the 1827 register as a member of the First Baptist Church. (First Baptist Church Register 1825-1874, Franklin, NC, on microfilm at North Carolina Archives.)
In 1828, residents of "Western Haywood" County petitioned for the creation of a new county, and although Joseph Miller lived there, his name was not included on the petition. The new county of Macon was formed in 1828 from the western part of Haywood County, and this included Cowee Creek where the Millers now resided. The county seat was set as the Town of Franklin, which was just 5 miles south of the mouth of Cowee Creek. The first court was held in March 1829, and Joseph Miller's name appears many times in the early court minutes.
Sarah Miller was listed on the 1828 register as a member of the First Baptist Church. (First Baptist Church Register 1825-1874, Franklin, NC, on microfilm at North Carolina Archives.)
Sarah Miller was listed on the 1829 register as a member of the First Baptist Church. (First Baptist Church Register 1825-1874, Franklin, NC, on microfilm at North Carolina Archives.)
In June 1829 Court, Joseph Miller and William Mayson (his brother-in-law) and others were named as "hands" (workers) on a road crew under B. S. Brittain, overseer of Lot # 3 to Lot # 2. Both Joseph and his brother-in-law were excepted (excused) from working this particular road. (Macon Co, NC Court Minutes 1829-1832 page 41).
In September 1829 Court, a "Mulatto boy", now in Joseph Millers possession was bound out to him until he turned 21, which was supposed to happen on 1 Jul 1844. He was to be fed well and given comfortable clothes, etc. The child's name was not given. Since he was "bound" to Joseph Miller, it would seem this child was free, and not a slave. (Macon Co, NC Court Minutes 1829-1832 page 58).
Also in September 1829 Court, Joseph Miller was ordered to keep a Mulatto boy named "Dak" until December term. (Was this the same child mentioned above?). (Macon Co, NC Court Minutes 1829-1832 page 59).
Again, in Sep 1829 Court, Joseph Miller was mentioned. This time he was mentioned in regard to a road crew. Elijah Shepherd was appointed overseer of the road from Humphrey Posey by the Iola Ford on Tennessee River, to Loudermilk's Field, using hands living on waters of Cowee Creek on east side of Tennessee River from mouth of Cowee Creek up to Joseph Miller's house, excepting Joseph Miller himself. (Macon Co, NC Court Minutes 1829-1832 page 62).
In December 1829, Joseph Miller delivered a "Mulatto boy" to court, presumably this was "Dak" from the September 1829 Court order. (Macon Co, NC Court Minutes 1829-1832 page 77).
Sarah Miller was listed on the 1830 register as a member of the First Baptist Church. (First Baptist Church Register 1825-1874, Franklin, NC, on microfilm at North Carolina Archives.)
Joseph Miller was listed on the 1830 census in Macon Co, NC, next door to his widowed mother Mary Miller. (James Pleming was his neighbor on the other side). Other nearby names were known residents of Cowee Creek and vicinity.
1830 census analysis (based on available evidence): (Explanation of this census)
1830 Macon Co, NC pg 10 Joseph Miller 1021010000000-1120010000000 Analysis: 1 Male(s) 30-39 (1790-1800) Joseph MILLER (1790) s/o John & Mary 1 Male(s) 15-19 (1810-1815) Noah MILLER (1813) son --> Hd 1840 2 Male(s) 10-14 (1815-1820) Peter MILLER (1814/15) son --> Hd 1840 Aaron MILLER (1815) son --> w/Peter in 1840? 1 Male(s) 0-4 (1825-1830) John Kimsey MILLER (1826) son 1 Female(s) 30-39 (1790-1800) Sarah COX Miller (1794/1800) wife d ca 1832 2 Female(s) 10-14 (1815-1820) Mary MILLER (1813/14) daughter m 1833 Rachel MILLER (1819/20) daughter 1 Female(s) 5-9 (1820-1825) Olly Ann MILLER (1822/23) daughter m 1839 1 Female(s) 0-4 (1825-1830) Naomi MILLER (1824/25) daughter
In December 1830 Court, Joseph Miller was appointed oversee of the road from the Mouth of Dillard Love's Mill Creek to Watauga Creek. (Macon Co, NC Court Minutes 1829-1832 page 170).
Sarah Miller was listed on the 1831 register as a member of the First Baptist Church. (First Baptist Church Register 1825-1874, Franklin, NC, on microfilm at North Carolina Archives.)
In March 1831 Court, Joseph Miller was listed as a juror. (Macon Co, NC Court Minutes 1829-1832 page 173).
In December 1831 Court, it was ordered that West Truitt (Joseph's son-in-law) replace him as overseer of the road (presumably the road mentioned in December 1830 court, as terms were only for a year at a time). (Macon Co, NC Court Minutes 1829-1832 page 249).
Sarah Miller was listed on the 1832 register as a member of the First Baptist Church. (First Baptist Church Register 1825-1874, Franklin, NC, on microfilm at North Carolina Archives.)
Sarah Miller was listed on the 1833 register as a member of the First Baptist Church. (First Baptist Church Register 1825-1874, Franklin, NC, on microfilm at North Carolina Archives.)
On 18 Jul 1833, Joseph Miller signed as bondsman for the marriage bond of Elijah Cross (probably a 1st cousin) and Elizabeth Low, daughter of Jesse Low. (Macon County, North Carolina Marriage Bonds, North Carolina Archives).
Sarah Miller was listed on the 1834 register as a member of the First Baptist Church. (First Baptist Church Register 1825-1874, Franklin, NC, on microfilm at North Carolina Archives.)
Sarah Miller was listed on the 1835 register as a member of the First Baptist Church. (First Baptist Church Register 1825-1874, Franklin, NC, on microfilm at North Carolina Archives.)
The above record (1835) is the last I found for Sarah Miller. I did not read the rest of the church minutes past that point. If these records are for our Sarah Miller (and not some other), then this should be her last, as she died around this time. I don't know when she died exactly, but sometime ca 1834-1835. Joseph Miller had a daughter born ca 1833/34, and his next child was born in July 1835. There isn't much margin in here for Sarah being still alive in 1835, when this child born in 1835 is suppose to belong to the 2nd wife. Anyway, there may be a problem with the birth date, or which wife of Joseph Miller was actually his mother. I'll have to re-read the church minutes to see if this Sarah Miller still shows up in 1836 and other years as still being a member. If so, then I have misidentified her as being Sarah Cox Miller, when in fact she is someone else, also named "Sarah Miller". A little research should clear this up, hopefully. Sarah Cox Miller is probably buried on the Miller property on Cowee Creek, or possibly somewhere else, in an unmarked grave.
After the death of Sarah Cox Miller, Joseph Miller remarried ca 1834/35 in Macon Co, NC to Susanna Tabitha Grant, a neighbor in the Cowee Creek area. Susanna was born ca 1816/17 in Rutherford Co, NC. She was born out of wedlock, and orphaned at a very young age. Her parents are unknown, but she was raised by her grandparents Andrew and Martha (Mackey) Grant. Rutherford County Court minutes show they were orphaned by 1824, and her and her brother James A. Grant were mentioned twice in the court minutes, first as "Tabitha Grant and James Grant", and second as "Susan T. Grant and James A. Grant", thus giving us her full name (later census records also confirm her name as "Susanna Tabitha"). Her widowed grandmother and several Uncles and Aunts brought Susan to Macon Co, NC in 1833, and they settled in the Cowee Creek region near the Millers. Descendants of Susan remembered her both as a "Grant" and as a "Pell". Since she was born out of wedlock, these traditions about her being a "Pell" may be a clue as to who her father was. There were Pells in Rutherford County, NC when she was born.
Joseph Miller was listed as voter in the 1835 Congressional Elections. He was listed as having voted in Macon Co, NC in Franklin Precinct, the only Miller to do so.
On 1 Mar 1838, Joseph Miller was issued a Land Grant in Macon County for 144 acres. The Grant was number 376, Section 45, District 10, recorded in Grant Book 143 page 579. Although not listed with this record, the land was on Tennessee River. (North Carolina Land Grant Card Index, North Carolina Archives).
On 8 Sep 1838, Joseph Miller sold his 144 acres to Charles Ridly for $800. The land was described as being on Tennessee River by Rattlebox on River. Witnesses were M. Wikle, Henson Queen and John Hall. (Macon Co, NC Deed Book B page 813, published in "Records of Old Macon County, N.C. 1829-1850" compiled by Barbara Sears McRae, Clearfield Company, 1991).
On 13 Apr 1839 Joseph Miller sold Noah Miller (his son) 75 acres in Macon County, NC, for $150. No location was noted. Witnessed by William Harrison. I don't know when Joseph obtained this land. (Macon Co, NC Deed Book C page 1179, published in "Records of Old Macon County, N.C. 1829-1850" compiled by Barbara Sears McRae, Clearfield Company, 1991).
Joseph Miller was listed on the 1840 census in Macon Co, NC, just 4 houses from Henry Miller (1804), who was not related, but who had moved to Macon from Wilkes Co, NC in the late 1830's, coincidentally ending up near Joseph Miller. If they are related, I have not found out how. Joseph Miller was listed between William Jones and Julius Dean.
1840 census analysis (based on available evidence): (Explanation of this census)
1840 Macon Co, NC pg 159 Joseph Miller 2010010000000-1210100000000 Analysis: 1 Male(s) 30-39 (1800-1810) Joseph MILLER (1790) s/o John & Mary 1 Male(s) 10-14 (1825-1830) John Kimsey MILLER (1826) son --> Hd 1850 2 Male(s) 0-4 (1835-1840) Henry Woodfin MILLER (1835) son Joel D. MILLER (1838) son 1 Female(s) 20-29 (1810-1820) Susan Tabitha GRANT Miller (1816/17) wife 1 Female(s) 10-14 (1825-1830) Naomi MILLER (1824/25) daughter m by 1850 2 Female(s) 5-9 (1830-1835) Margaret Lavina MILLER (1831/32) dau m 1849 Sarah T. MILLER (1833/34) daughter? 1 Female(s) 0-4 (1835-1840) Juletta M. MILLER (1838) daughter
In Jun 1842 Court, Joseph Miller was listed as a Juror. (Macon Co, NC Court Minutes 1838-1855, page 186).
Joseph Miller and family were listed on the 1850 census in Macon Co, NC. He was listed between Isaac Wilkins family and Johnson Hampton family. Based on various familiar neighbors, I'd say Joseph Miller was still on Cowee Creek.
1850 MACON CO, NC Page 380B House/Family # 876/ 891 - TENNESSEE VALLEY Twp MILLER JOSEPH 60 M W FARMER 300 LINCOLN 1789/1790 MILLER TABITHA 33 F W RUTHERFORD 1816/1817 MILLER HENRY W 15 M W MACON 1834/1835 MILLER JOEL A 13 M W MACON 1836/1837 MILLER LETTA M 11 F W MACON 1838/1839 MILLER AMANDA J 9 F W MACON 1840/1841 MILLER DAVID L 7 M W MACON 1842/1843
The 1850 Agricultural Census (part of the 1850 census, but on a separate schedule) shows that Joseph Miller had 30 acres of improved land, and 120 acres of unimproved land.
Joseph Miller and family were on the 1860 census in Macon Co, NC next door to married son Joel Miller, still apparently in the Cowee Creek area.
1860 MACON CO, NC Page 245 House/Family # 231/ 239 -- TENNESSEE VALLEY Twp MILLER JOSEPH 71 M W FARMER 400 155 LINCOLN CO, NC 1788/1789 MILLER SUSANAH T 41 F W RUTHERFORD CO, NC 1818/1819 MILLER LETTA M 21 F W MACON CO, NC 1838/1839 MILLER DAVID L 17 M W MACON CO, NC 1842/1843 MILLER JOSEPH I 9 M W MACON CO, NC 1850/1851 MILLER ELIZA E T 4 F W MACON CO, NC 1855/1856
Sometime during the 1860's (perhaps due to the depravations during the Civil War), Joseph and Susan Miller and several of their children moved down to the Highlands area of Macon County, in Sugar Fork Township. They lived somewhere on the east side of the Cullasaja River, just north of the present town of Highlands. Lawrence Wood took me to the Miller Cemetery where Joseph and Susan are buried, and just before getting there, he pointed off to the general area where Joseph Millers home had been.
Joseph and Susan and some of the younger children were listed together on the 1870 census in Macon Co, NC in Sugar Fork Township. Married sons Joel and David Miller were listed one either side of them.
1870 MACON CO, NC Page 337 House/Family # 3/ 3--SUGAR FORK Twp MILLER JOSEPH 85 M W FARMER 150 NC 1784/1785 MILLER SUSAN L 53 F W KEEPING HOUSE NC 1816/1817 MILLER JOSEPH J 18 M W AGRICULTURE NC 1851/1852 MILLER ELIZABETH E 12 F W AT HOME NC 1857/1858 MILLER CHARLES T 10 M W AT HOME NC 1859/1860
In 1871 a manuscript was prepared by one Silas McDowell listing the "Oldest men in Macon County". On this list was "Joseph Miller age 82, father of 27 children". This was printed in a 1963 edition of the Franklin Press, and republished in the Swain County, NC Historical Society Journal "The Bone Rattler", Volume 4, Number 3, Winter 1988, page 79. The number of children given for Joseph seems slightly high, as I've only identified 20 children. It is possible that there were 7 others who died young, or this was just an error on McDowell's part (or a misprint).
Joseph Miller died on 2 Mar 1880 (per his tombstone) in Macon Co, NC, and was buried at the Miller Cemetery in Macon County, NC, just about a mile up the road (US 64) from Highlands. His tombstone reads "Joseph Miller, died March 2, 1880, aged 89", and is next.
For some reason, an obituary was published in "The Blue Ridge Blade" (out of Burke County, NC) for Joseph, though several mistakes were made, but I think it is clear they were referring to Joseph. The obituary said "Joel Miller" of Macon Co, NC, age 98 had died. Somehow their facts got confused along the way. He had a son "Joel", so that may be the source of the name mix-up, and his age at death was 89, so perhaps "98" was simply a transposition.
Joseph's widow Susan was listed on the 1880 census in Macon Co, NC in Blue Ridge Township next to married daughter Juletta Miller Houston.
1880 MACON CO, NC Page 506B House/Family # 76/ 77 -- BLUE RIDGE Twp MILLER SUSAN W F 70 ML W KNITTING NC NC NC 1809/1810 MILLER C J W M 19 BL WORKS ON FARM NC NC NC 1860/1861
Susanna Tabitha Grant Miller died on 12 Jan 1886, and was buried next to Joseph Miller at the Miller Cemetery. Her tombstone says "Susan T. Miller, died Jan 12, 1886, age 69".
For those interested, here are directions for visiting the Miller Cemetery. It is just off of US 64 between Franklin and Highlands. US 64 follows the Cullasaja River and is very winding. It is only about 1 or 2 miles outside of Highlands (and Bridal Veil falls is very close by). If you are traveling north on US 64 (from Highlands to Franklin) it is on the right. Look for Vanhook Wayside Park or Vanhook Glade (name varies from map to map). Just past this is an unpaved road to the right. Turn right onto this road, (possibly named "Long Branch Road", as that is the name of the creek it follows), but almost immediately you will need turn again, left onto a road that goes up the mountain with the overhead transmission lines. This is a one lane path really, but it was passable when I traveled it a few years ago. This little road is nearly a mile long, but it ends at the Miller Cemetery, so you can't miss it. Lawrence Wood warned me that this was a popular hangout for young folks to drink and whatever, so keep that in mind if you go, and be careful. No one was there when we went. Just don't go alone if you can help it. Perhaps there is nothing to worry about, but I felt I should pass that along, just in case.
Joseph Miller and his first wife Sarah Cox had at least 12 children, none of whom I have solid proof for, but I feel strongly that the list I have is accurate. Joseph and his second wife Susanna T. Grant had 8 children, all of whom are proven. This makes for 20 children total. The 1871 manuscript I mentioned previously stated that Joseph had 27 children. If correct, then there are 7 other children, who most likely died young. However, I think this article was probably in error, even though contemporary with Joseph Miller. There were several "gaps" between the births of the 20 known children, possibly enough to account for 7 other children, who either were stillborn, or died very young (and between census years). The 8 children by the second marriage are all confirmed by census and other records. The 12 children from the first marriage are not all proven, at least not with primary evidence, but all listed fit very well based on circumstantial evidence. Back in the 1960's and before, Helen Kemeny was in contact with numerous descendants of Joseph Miller, including some grandchildren who were very knowledgeable about the family. Lawrence Wood also knew Noah Miller of Brevard, NC, another grandson of Joseph Miller. So based on their shared data, we had the names of 12 children from the first marriage, and who most of them married. There were some minor errors in the data, but all in all, very helpful. Even without the benefit of their early research on the family, I think we could still identify most of these 12 as probable children of Joseph Miller, based on proximity and census analysis and so forth. Several of the children from the firs marriage are so close in age as to suggest that they were twins. In fact, some of Helen's early family group sheets lists some as twins, though I don't know if she concluded this based on supposed ages, or on something else.
Margaret Lavina Miller (c1832)
Eliza Elvira T. Miller (c1856)
Cynthia Miller was born ca 1811/12 (per 1850 census) or "1811" per Helen Kemeny's research. She was born in Buncombe Co, NC (per 1850 and 1860 census). Cynthia's name was included as a daughter of Joseph Miller on the early Helen Kemeny Family Group sheets (from the 1960's), though I don't know what evidence was used to include her. The same family group sheets show an Andrew Miller born at the same time, so possibly a twin.
I have seen no direct evidence (so far) that Cynthia was a Miller, but she and her husband were neighbors to Joseph Miller and she does fit based on circumstantial evidence. Joseph Miller did have three apparent daughters this age with him in 1820 (all "under 10", born ca 1810/20). Of their many children, several could have lived until the age of death certificates (generally used after 1910-1920 in most states), and perhaps one of them lists Cynthia's maiden name, thus shedding some light on this subject. Although Death certificates are notoriously unreliable in this matter, they are certainly useful as clues to parents names.
Cynthia married Wesley Truitt (a.k.a. "West" Truitt) before 1829 in Macon Co, NC (if earlier than 1828, then if so, then they were married in Haywood County, now Macon County). I found no marriage record in either Haywood or Macon County for them. Wesley Truitt was born ca 1807/08 (per 1850 census) in either Burke Co, NC (per 1850 census) or Rutherford Co, NC (per 1860 census). He may be a son of Levi Truitt and Susannah Morgan, but I don't know that for sure.
On 27 Oct 1829, David Laird sold West Truet, 127 acres on Tennessee River in Macon Co, NC. Witnesses were John Dobson and Pergrine Roberts. (Macon Co, NC Deed Book A page 30, published in "Records of Old Macon County, N.C. 1829-1850" compiled by Barbara Sears McRae, Clearfield Company, 1991).
Wesley Truitt was listed on the 1830 census in Macon Co, NC next door to widow Mary Miller (Cynthia's grandmother) who was, in turn, next to Joseph Miller, Cynthia's father. They were most likely in the Cowee Creek area.
1830 census analysis (based on available evidence): (Explanation of this census)
1830 Macon Co, NC pg 10 West Truitt 1000100000000-0001000000000 Analysis: 1 Male(s) 20-29 (1800-1810) Wesley TRUITT (1807/08) s/o Levi & Susannah 1 Male(s) 0-4 (1825-1830) John W. TRUITT (1828/29) son 1 Female(s) 15-19 (1810-1815) Cynthia MILLER Truitt (1811/12) wife
In December 1831 Court, West Truitt was named as overseer of the road in place of Joseph Millar (his father-in-law). (These appointments were usually for one year at a time). (Macon Co, NC Court Minutes 1829-1832 page 249).
In April 1835 Court, Wiley W. Henry brought suit (don't know what kind) against Isaac Truitt and Wesley Truitt. (Macon Co, NC Court Minutes 1833-1836 page 61).
Also in April 1835 Court, West Truitt was named as a juror. (Macon Co, NC Court Minutes 1833-1836 page 75 and page 78).
In July 1835 Court, West Truitt was listed as a juror. (Macon Co, NC Court Minutes 1833-1836 page 86).
On 24 Jan 1838, West Truett sold John Hall Sr 100 acres in Macon Co, NC. Witnesses were James Robison and J. K. Gray. (Macon Co, NC Deed Book A page 574, published in "Records of Old Macon County, N.C. 1829-1850" compiled by Barbara Sears McRae, Clearfield Company, 1991).
On 4 Sep 1838, West Truett entered a mortgage with Silas McDowell and James K. Gray. He mortgaged 127 acres on Tennessee River, and three tracts of 97 acres, 50 acres, and 55 acres, by which he agreed to pay $120 to McDowell or Gray to sell land to highest bidder, and they keep the $120 from the proceeds. Witnesses were M. Francis and Milton L. Hughs. (Macon Co, NC Deed Book A page 565, published in "Records of Old Macon County, N.C. 1829-1850" compiled by Barbara Sears McRae, Clearfield Company, 1991).
Sometime in the late 1830's, Wesley and family left the Cowee Creek area and moved south to Middle Creek, another tributary of the Tennessee River. which is in southern Macon County, a few miles south of Franklin, and very close to the Rabun County, Georgia line.
On 24 Jan 1840 West Truitt deeded 100 acres to Daniel Garland, land on Middle Creek. Witnessed by J. W. Guinn. (Macon Co, NC Deed Book B page 1096, published in "Records of Old Macon County, N.C. 1829-1850" compiled by Barbara Sears McRae, Clearfield Company, 1991).
Wesley Truitt was listed on the 1840 census in Macon Co, NC next door to brother-in-law Peter Miller and James Ledbetter.
1840 census analysis (based on available evidence): (Explanation of this census)
1840 Macon Co, NC pg 154 West Truit 2100010000000-1101100000000 Analysis: 1 Male(s) 30-39 (1800-1810) Wesley TRUITT (1807/08) 1 Male(s) 5-9 (1830-1835) Jasper N. TRUITT (1833/34) son 2 Male(s) 0-4 (1835-1840) Silas M. TRUITT (1836/37) son Joseph TRUITT (1838/39) son 1 Female(s) 20-29 (1810-1820) Cynthia MILLER Truitt (1811/12) wife 1 Female(s) 15-19 (1820-1825) Daughter? Niece? (1820/25) * Not in 1830 Rachel Miller (c1820) sister-in-law 1 Female(s) 5-9 (1830-1835) Sarah TRUITT (1831/32) daughter 1 Female(s) 0-4 (1835-1840) Susannah TRUITT (1835/36) daughter
On 2 Jun 1841, West Truitt deeded 70 acres to Benjamin W. Kilpatrick, land "crossing the fork of Silver Run". Witness: J. Howard. (Macon Co, NC Deed Book C page 1379, published in "Records of Old Macon County, N.C. 1829-1850" compiled by Barbara Sears McRae, Clearfield Company, 1991).
On 26 Sep 1841 John Howard sold West Truitt 8 tracts of land: 58 acres, 75 acres, 56 acres, 90 acres, 75 acres, 56 acres, 65 acres and 84 acres, "all lying in flats of Middle Creek". Witnessed by Jacob Siler. (Macon Co, NC Deed Book C page 1535, published in "Records of Old Macon County, N.C. 1829-1850" compiled by Barbara Sears McRae, Clearfield Company, 1991).
On 29 Jan 1843 James Weatherow sold his interest in a parcel of land to West Truett. Apparently the land was jointly owned with Truitt, and Witherow was giving up his half of the land (if I read it correctly). Witnessed by Silas McDowell. (Macon Co, NC Deed Book D page 1576, published in "Records of Old Macon County, N.C. 1829-1850" compiled by Barbara Sears McRae, Clearfield Company, 1991).
In March 1843 Court, Elizabeth Hughs brought suit against West Truitt. I don't know the details. (Macon Co, NC Court Minutes 1838-1855 page 222).
On 10 Dec 1843, West Truett sold 70 acres to John W. Woodfin of Buncombe Co, NC. The land was described as "crossing fork of Silver Run", apparently bought in 1836. Witnessed by J. H. L. Moore. (Macon Co, NC Deed Book D page 1667, published in "Records of Old Macon County, N.C. 1829-1850" compiled by Barbara Sears McRae, Clearfield Company, 1991).
Wesley and Cynthia and family were listed on the 1850 census in Macon Co, NC. They were listed between the households of Adam Dowell and James Russell. West's occupation was given as "Ditcher". They seem to be in the Middle Creek region (in present Ellijay Township, I believe).
1850 MACON CO, NC Page 331 House/Family # 215/ 220 - TENNESSEE VALLEY Twp TRUIT WEST 42 M W DITCHER 500 BURKE NC 1807/1808 TRUIT CYNTHIA 38 F W BUNCOMBE 1811/1812 TRUIT JOHN 21 M W FARMER MACON 1828/1829 TRUIT SALLY 18 F W MACON 1831/1832 TRUIT JASPER 16 M W LABORER MACON 1833/1834 TRUIT SUSAN 14 F W MACON 1835/1836 TRUIT SILAS 13 M W MACON 1836/1837 TRUIT JOSEPH 11 M W MACON 1838/1839 TRUIT GEORGE 7 M W MACON 1842/1843 TRUIT JOSHUA 0 M W 1/12 MACON 1849/1850
Wesley and Cynthia were listed on the 1860 census in Macon Co, NC, next door to Cynthia's sister Mary Miller Grant. I can't quite tell where they were living for sure, but I think still in the Middle Creek area. ** I don't have this census entry typed up yet.
I did not find Wesley or Cynthia Truitt on the 1870 census in Macon Co, NC. I don't know if they had moved away, or if they had died. Several of their married children were still in Macon Co, NC in 1870, in Welch's township (present Swain County, NC), and one child in Mill Shoal Township.
I have no record of Wesley and Cynthia after the 1860 census.
Andrew Miller was born "1811" (per Helen Kemeny's data) in Buncombe Co, NC. Andrew's name was included as a child of Joseph Miller on the early Helen Kemeny Family Group sheets (from the 1960's), though I don't know what evidence was used to include him. The same family group sheets show him as the same age as Cynthia, so possibly a twin.
The records used by Helen Kemeny (presumably family tradition, or family interviews) showing Andrew Miller contain only his name with no additional data. I suspect this is because he died young. The 1820 census record for Joseph Miller shows only 3 sons in the "under 10" age group (born ca 1810/20), and these three are most likely Noah (1813), Aaron (1815) and Peter (c1815/20). That leaves no room for Andrew Miller, so it would be my guess that he died before 1820.
Noah Miller was born 28 Nov 1813 (per Helen Kemeny's data, I don't know what source she used). He was born in Buncombe Co, NC (per the 1850 census). I don't know what proof there is that Noah is a son of Joseph, but I'm sure he is as the circumstantial evidence is strong, and family tradition says it is so. Noah was a Preacher, and left a Journal with some family (and other) data in it. I don't have a copy, but I've seen extracts from it. (Does anyone have a copy they'd like to share?).
Noah was apparently home with his parents for the 1820 census (age "under 10", born ca 1810/20), and apparently with them in 1830 (age 15-19, born ca 1810/15).
Noah Miller married Martha Lindsay on 18 Jan 1835 (as recorded in Noah's journal) in Macon Co, NC. Martha was born 11 Mar 1812 (the date is probably from his journal also). I don't know who Martha's parents are, but it is very likely that she is a sister to George Lindsay who married Noah's sister Olly Ann Miller.
Although he was old enough, Noah Miller did not vote in the 1835 elections (his father did though).
On 13 Apr 1839 Joseph Miller sold Noah Miller 75 acres (for $150). Witnessed by William Harrison. (Macon Co, NC Deed Book C page 1179, published in "Records of Old Macon County, N.C. 1829-1850" compiled by Barbara Sears McRae, Clearfield Company, 1991).
Noah Miller was listed on the 1840 census in Macon Co, NC. He was next door to Thomas B. Grant, his brother-in-law, (married to Noah's sister Mary Miller). They were apparently living on "Millers Creek" (probably named for Noah), which is somewhere near Cowee Creek (perhaps between Cowee Creek and Watauga Creek), but apparently not found on modern maps.
1840 census analysis (based on available evidence): (Explanation of this census)
1840 Macon Co, NC pg 156 Noah Miller 2000100000000-2000100000000 Analysis: 1 Male(s) 20-29 (1810-1820) Noah MILLER (1813) s/o Joseph & Sarah 2 Male(s) 0-4 (1835-1840) Jeptha MILLER (1835/36) son Elijah MILLER (1838/39) son 1 Female(s) 20-29 (1810-1820) Martha LINDSAY Miller (1810/20) d by 1842 2 Female(s) 0-4 (1835-1840) Louisa MILLER (1836/37) daughter Ruth MILLER (1839/40) daughter
In March 1840 Court, Noah Miller was listed as a juror. (Macon Co, NC Court Minutes 1838-1855 page 84).
In June 1840 Court, Noah Miller was listed as a juror. (Macon Co, NC Court Minutes 1838-1855 page 90).
In Feb 1841 Court, Noah Miller was mentioned in regards to a road. Moses Mayfield was appointed overseer to cut out a wagon road from the mouth of Millers Creek to Noah Miller's Mill. (Macon Co, NC Court Minutes 1838-1855 page 131).
Martha Lindsay Miller died on 30 Oct 1841 in Macon Co, NC. I believe this date must have been recorded in Noah's journal, otherwise, I don't know the source for it.
On 15 May 1842, Noah Miller obtained a marriage bond in Macon Co, NC to marry Elizabeth Tabor, with Moses Mayfield as bondsman. I don't know when they married, though likely the same day, or very shortly afterwards. Elizabeth was born 26 Jul 1822 somewhere in Tennessee, daughter of Nathan Tabor and Elizabeth Condra. I don't know what the proof is for these being her parents, but it seems to be accurate. Elizabeth Tabor's sister Arlena was married to Noah's brother John K. Miller.
In March 1843 Court, Noah Miller was a juror. (Macon Co, NC Court Minutes 1838-1855 page 218).
In September 1843 Court, Noah Miller was a juror. (Macon Co, NC Court Minutes 1838-1855 page 225).
Also in September 1843, Noah Miller was ordered to return his road order (but I didn't find where the original road order was issued, I may have missed it). (Macon Co, NC Court Minutes 1838-1855 page 229).
In December 1845 Court, Noah Miller and his brother Aaron Miller were both listed on a jury. (Macon Co, NC Court Minutes 1838-1855 page 319).
On 6 Aug 1846, Noah Miller (and Thomas J. Shepherd Sr) witnessed a deed from Samuel H. Roper to Alfred Hall. (Macon Co, NC Deed Book E page 408, published in "Records of Old Macon County, N.C. 1829-1850" compiled by Barbara Sears McRae, Clearfield Company, 1991).
On 22 Sep 1846 Jacob Siler sold Noah Miller four tracts of land on Burningtown Creek, 80 acres, 87 acres, 65 acres and 53 acres. Witnessed by William Morison. (Macon Co, NC Deed Book E page 256, published in "Records of Old Macon County, N.C. 1829-1850" compiled by Barbara Sears McRae, Clearfield Company, 1991).
In June 1848 Court, Noah Miller was a juror. (Macon Co, NC Court Minutes 1838-1855 page 385).
In March 1849 Court, Noah Miller and his brother Aaron Miller were listed as jurors. (Macon Co, NC Court Minutes 1838-1855 page 406).
In June 1849 Court, Noah Miller and brother Aaron Miller were listed as Jurors. (Macon Co, NC Court Minutes 1838-1855 page 410).
Noah and family were listed on the 1850 census in Macon Co, NC. They were just a few houses from Noah's brother Aaron Miller. Noah was listed between the families of Nathan Dehart and Martin Dehart.
1850 MACON CO, NC Page 348 House/Family # 446/ 456 - TENNESSEE VALLEY Twp MILLER NOAH 36 M W BAPTIST PREACHER 300 BUNCOMBE CO, NC 1813/1814 MILLER ELIZABETH 28 F W TN 1821/1822 MILLER JEPHTHA 14 M W MACON CO, NC 1835/1836 MILLER LOUISA 13 F W MACON CO, NC 1836/1837 MILLER ELIJAH 11 M W MACON CO, NC 1838/1839 MILLER RUTH 10 F W MACON CO, NC 1839/1840 MILLER JOSHUA 7 M W MACON CO, NC 1842/1843 MILLER JOHN 5 M W MACON CO, NC 1844/1845 MILLER ELVIRA 4 F W MACON CO, NC 1845/1846 MILLER MARANDA 2 F W MACON CO, NC 1847/1848
The 1850 Agriculture Census (a separate schedule of the 1850 census) shows that Noah Miller had 25 acres of improved land, and 600 acres of unimproved land.
Sometime shortly after the 1850 census, Noah Miller moved his family to Grayson Co, TX. I have not attempted to research them there. I have data on their family, as shared with me by Claire Morelli and other researchers.
Noah Miller was listed on the 1860 census in Grayson Co, TX. He was next door to son Jeptha Miller and just a few households from his brother Peter Miller and sister Rachel Bruce. For some reason, much of the household was listed as having been born in Kentucky, but this is wrong.
1860 GRAYSON CO, TX Page 215B House/Family # 1096/1122 -- Twp SHERMAN P.O. MILLER NOAH 47 M W FARMER 3320 1500 NC 1812/1813 MILLER ELIZABETH 39 F W DOMESTIC KY 1820/1821 MILLER RUTH 18 F W KY 1841/1842 MILLER JOSHUA 17 M W KY 1842/1843 MILLER JOHN 16 M W KY 1843/1844 MILLER ELVIRA 14 F W KY 1845/1846 MILLER MIRANDA 13 F W KY 1846/1847 MILLER NOAH Jr 10 M W KY 1849/1850 MILLER SARAH E (twin 3 F W TX 1856/1857 MILLER MARY J (twin) 3 F W TX 1856/1857 MILLER ARRENIA 0 F W 6/12 TX 1859/1860
I do not know where Noah was in 1870, but in 1880 he was listed in Fannin Co, TX. ** I don't have this entry typed up yet.
Noah Miller died on 28 May 1902 in Texas. I don't know when Elizabeth Tabor Miller died.
Mary "Polly" Miller was born ca 1813/14 (per 1850 census) in Buncombe Co, NC (per 1850 and 1860 census). Mary's age varies only slightly from census to census, so I'm not sure which is correct, but all are so close as to not matter too much (In 1850, "36", born ca 1813/14;, in 1860, "45", born ca 1814/15; in 1870, "57", ca 1812/13, in 1880, "65", ca 1814/15). On 22 Apr 1878, Mary's age was given as "62" (born ca 1815/16) in an affidavit.
Mary is a proven "Miller" as so stated in her widow's Pension application, though her being a child of Joseph Miller and Sarah Cox is not proven by any primary records, as far as I know, but she does belong here, I'm sure. In one branch of her descendants, there is a Family tradition about her mother being a "Cox", which fits perfectly. She was also a neighbor to her various siblings through the years, and lived on Miller Creek in Macon Co, NC for awhile.
The early records of Helen Kemeny (from the late 1950's, I believe) always show a "Polly Miller" as a child of Joseph Miller, (though mistakenly listing Polly's spouse as "Jeptha Caylor", who was actually married to Rachel Miller, and not Polly, as proven by several records.) The same record also lists Polly as a twin to Olly, but I have Olly born ca 1823 (per 1850 census). If Olly's birth year is correct, then they can't be twins, however, it is possible that Olly's date is wrong (but not Polly's).
So, even though there is no primary evidence to show that Mary Miller is a child of Joseph and Sarah (Cox) Miller, there is ample circumstantial evidence, also including that Mary named a son "Joseph" and daughter "Sarah", presumably after her parents, and other daughters: "Olly Ann" and "Rachel", presumably after her sisters.
Mary Miller was apparently with her parents for the 1820 census (age "under 10", born ca 1810/20), and with them still in 1830 (age 10-14, born ca 1815/20).
Mary Miller married Thomas B. Grant in 1833 in Macon Co, NC. Her marriage year was given in her widow's Pension application mentioned earlier. They married in Macon County, but no public record was found of the marriage.
Since they have their own page, I'll just summarize some data that helps show Mary was part of Joseph Miller's family.
They were listed on the 1840 census in Macon Co, NC next door to her brother Noah Miller.
In 1840, Thomas B. Grant received a land grant on Millers Creek on Tennessee River (which is presumably named for Noah Miller or possibly for Joseph Miller.) I don't know where this creek is located, I have not been able to find it on a map. It may have a different name today. Later, Mary and others seemed to live on "Mills Creek" (or "Mill Creek"), and I can't help but wonder if they are one and the same.
Thomas B. Grant died in 1845 in Macon Co, NC. Mary remained a widow for nearly 20 years before remarrying.
She was listed on the 1850 census in Macon Co, NC just two houses from her brother John Miller. At this point, they were on Mill Creek. There are two Mill Creeks in Macon. One is just three miles west of Franklin, and is probably the one where they lived.
Mary and family were on the 1860 census in Macon Co, NC next door to her sister Cynthia Truitt. This was all the way down into south Macon County on Middle Creek.
Mary Miller Grant married John Cargile (a widower) on 24 Oct 1861 in Macon Co, NC. (John was 40 years older than Mary!). He had been previously married, his first wife being Nancy Grey (married 22 May 1811 in Wilkes Co, NC).
For additional data, see their own page. Thomas and Mary are my 4th Great Grandparents.
Aaron Miller was born October 1815 (per 1900 census) in Buncombe Co, NC (per 1850 and 1860 census). I don't know what evidence was used to include Aaron as a son of Joseph Miller, but he does fit based on circumstantial evidence.
Aaron was apparently home with his parents for the 1820 census (age "under 10", born ca 1810/20), and apparently home in 1830 (age 10-14, born ca 1815/20). He was not with his parents in 1840, but someone his age was with his brother Peter Miller (age 20-29, born ca 1810/20), and I think it is probably Aaron.
Sometime in 1840 (no exact date), Aaron Miller and Benjamin Duval and L. C. Duval witnessed a deed from Ann Brown to Peter and Sally Daves. The deed was proven in Jan 1840 court. (Macon Co, NC Deed Book A page 1093, published in "Records of Old Macon County, N.C. 1829-1850" compiled by Barbara Sears McRae, Clearfield Company, 1991).
In March 1843 Court, Aaron Miller was listed as a juror. (Macon Co, NC Court Minutes 1838-1855 page 216).
Apparently Aaron Miller was supposed to be a juror in June Court (1843), but didn't show up. In September 1843 Court, Aaron Miller "renders his excuse for his non attendance at June Court which was accepted by the Court". (Macon Co, NC Court Minutes 1838-1855 page 225).
In December 1845 Court, Aaron Miller and brother Noah Miller were listed as jurors. (Macon Co, NC Court Minutes 1838-1855 page 319).
In December 1847 Court, Aaron Miller and his brother-in-law William Mason were listed as jurors. (Macon Co, NC Court Minutes 1838-1855 page 373).
In March 1848, Aaron Miller came in and recorded his "mark" (meaning the mark he used to mark his livestock). (Macon Co, NC Court Minutes 1838-1855 page 379).
Sometime around ca 1848 or thereabouts, Aaron Miller married Eliza Ann Drenning in Macon Co, NC. I did not find a marriage record for them. Her maiden name is proven via her mother residing with them for many years and listed with them on the 1850, 1860 and 1880 census. Ann was born ca 1820/21 somewhere in Tennessee. Her father's name isn't known (other than Mr. Drenning), but her mother was named Mary, born ca 1794 in SC. Ann's father was dead prior to 1850. There were other Drennings in the county who could be her siblings, including William (c1815 TN), and Hensley Drenning (c1826 TN). I don't know that they are her siblings, but it seems reasonable. There were no Drennings in Macon for the 1840 census, so they probably moved in here right around then. Another possible sibling to Ann is a Mary Drenning who married Peter Mason in 1840, but apparently died before 1845.
In March 1849 Court, Aaron Miller and brother Noah Miller were listed as jurors. (Macon Co, NC Court Minutes 1838-1855 page 406).
In June 1849 Court, Aaron and Noah Miller were listed as jurors. (Macon Co, NC Court Minutes 1838-1855 page 410).
Aaron Miller and family were listed on the 1850 census in Macon Co, NC, just 5 houses from brother Noah Miller. Ann's widowed mother Mary was living with them.
1850 MACON CO, NC Page 348 House/Family # 441/ 451 - TENNESSEE VALLEY Twp MILLER AARON 32 M W FARMER 250 BUNCOMBE CO, NC 1817/1818 MILLER ANN 29 F W TN 1820/1821 MILLER ELVIRA 1 F W MACON CO, NC 1848/1849 DRENNING MARY 56 F W SC 1793/1794
The 1850 Agriculture Census showed Aaron Miller with 30 acres of improved land and 600 acres of unimproved land.
Aaron and family were still in Macon Co, NC for the 1860 census, listed in Welch's District (possibly present day Swain County, NC). Ann's mother Mary was residing with them still, and they were just 7 and 8 houses from Eliza's likely siblings Hensley Drenning and William Drenning.
1860 MACON CO, NC Page 269 House/Family # 575/ 588 -- WELCH'S Twp MILLER AARON 41 M W FARMER 2000 625 BUNCOMBE CO, NC 1818/1819 MILLER ANNA 40 F W TN 1819/1820 MILLER ELVIRA 10 F W MACON CO, NC 1849/1850 MILLER ANGALINE 6 F W MACON CO, NC 1853/1854 MILLER IDA 3 F W MACON CO, NC 1856/1857 DRENNING MARY 66 F W SC 1793/1794
I have not yet found Aaron and family on the 1870 census, but they were probably somewhere in Macon County still, probably in or near to that part that later became Swain County.
In 1871 Swain County was formed from part of Macon and Jackson Counties, and included the area where Aaron Miller and family resided.
Aaron and family were listed on the 1880 census in Swain County, NC, in Nantahala Township. Once again, Ann's widowed mother Mary was residing with them, and their widowed daughter Iowa and her children were also with them.
1880 SWAIN CO, NC Page 184B House/Family # 87/ 87 -- NANTAHALA Twp MILLER AARON W M 60 HD M FARMER NC UNK UNK 1819/1820 MILLER ANNE W F 59 WF M KEEPING HOUSE TN TN SC 1820/1821 McCOY IOWA W F 23 D ? KEEPING HOUSE NC NC TN 1856/1857 McCOY WILLIAM W M 7 GS S NC NC NC 1872/1873 McCOY CALLIE W F 5 GD S NC NC NC 1874/1875 McCOY ALSEYDONIA W F 3 GD S NC NC NC 1876/1877 JENKINS JANE W F 21 S HIRED LABORER NC NC NC 1858/1859 DRINEN MARY W F 87 ML W SC NC NC 1792/1793
Eliza Ann Drenning Miller died sometime between 1892 and 1900 in Swain County, NC.
Aaron Miller was living with his daughter Iowa and her family in 1900, and listed in Nantahala Township.
1900 SWAIN CO, NC Page House/Family # 202/ 203--NANTAHALA (2) Twp WADKINS JOHN A HD W M JUL 1866 33 M 7 GA GA GA FARMER WADKINS IOWA WF W F JAN 1856 44 M 7 6 4 NC NC NC WADKINS ARTHUR J S W M JUL 1895 4 S NC GA NC WADKINS WALTER B S W M JUN 1898 1 S NC GA NC MILLER AARON FL W M OCT 1815 84 W NC NC NC
Aaron Miller died sometime after 1900 in Swain County, NC. I have "1904" as his death year, but I don't know where I got that from.
Peter Miller was born ca 1814/15 (per 1850 census), presumably born in Buncombe Co, NC. I don't know what evidence was used to include Peter as a son of Joseph Miller, but he does fit based on circumstantial evidence.
He was apparently home with his parents for the 1820 census (age "under 10", born ca 1810/20), and with them in 1830 (age 10-14, born ca 1815/20).
Peter Miller apparently was married to Naomi Childers sometime between 1830 and ca 1837, probably in Macon Co, NC (no marriage record found). His wife's maiden name was given in Helen Kemeny's family data, but I haven't found any additional data on them yet in order to confirm or refute it. She was born ca 1811/12 in NC (per 1850 census). I don't know who her parents were. The 1830 Macon Co, NC census shows a Humphries Childers (c1800/10) with apparent wife born ca 1810/15. In 1840 Macon he was still there, and both times he was the only Childers in the county. I would guess that he is Naomi's brother, assuming that Childers is her maiden name.
On 25 Jan 1839, Peter Miller sold two tracts of land to Samuel Bryson, one for 67 acres, and the other 50 and 1/2 acres on George's Creek. Witnessed by J. W. Guinn. (Macon Co, NC Deed Book B page 887, published in "Records of Old Macon County, N.C. 1829-1850" compiled by Barbara Sears McRae, Clearfield Company, 1991).
Peter Miller was listed on the 1840 census in Macon Co, NC, next door to brother-in-law Wesley Truitt, probably indicating he was living in the Middle Creek region. Peter had an "extra" male with him in his same age group (born ca 1810/20), who I suspect is his brother Aaron Miller (1815). I believe this because Aaron did not seem to be with his parents in 1840, but he was still unmarried at that time.
1840 census analysis (based on available evidence): (Explanation of this census)
1840 Macon Co, NC pg 154 Peter Miller 2000200000000-0000100000000 Analysis: 2 Male(s) 20-29 (1810-1820) Peter MILLER (1814/15) s/o Joseph & Sarah Aaron MILLER (1815) brother --> hd 1850 2 Male(s) 0-4 (1835-1840) Francis M. MILLER (1836/37) son James J. MILLER (1838/39) son 1 Female(s) 20-29 (1810-1820) Naomi CHILDERS Miller (1811/12) wife
In January 1842 Court, the State brought suit against Peter Miller charging Assault and Battery. For some reason a Mistrial was declared. (Macon Co, NC Court Minutes 1838-1855 page 171).
In January 1843 Court, the State again brought suit against Peter Miller for Assault and Battery. I don't know if this was a new case, or a continuation of the one from the previous year. He was found not guilty. (Macon Co, NC Court Minutes 1838-1855 page 209).
In March 1843 Court, N. S. Jarrett brought a suit against Peter Miller, "casa" (meaning, I think, that he was incarcerated or detained until a debt was satisfied). In the same session, another case was brought by J. R. Siler against Peter Miller for the same thing. (Macon Co, NC Court Minutes 1838-1855 page 212).
These legal problems may have prompted Peter Miller to leave the county, for sometime around 1843 or shortly afterwards, he and his family left Macon County for Murray Co, GA. Peter's sister Rachel Miller Caylor and her family also moved there at the same time.
They were listed on the 1850 census in Murray Co, GA just a few houses from the Caylors.
1850 MURRAY CO, GA Page 174 House/Family # 378/ 378 MILLER PETER 35 M W COOPER NC 1814/1815 MILLER NAOMI 38 F W NC 1811/1812 MILLER FRANCIS M 13 M W NC 1836/1837 MILLER JAMES J 11 M W NC 1838/1839 MILLER JOSEPH N? 8 M W NC 1841/1842 MILLER JOHN L 4 M W GA 1845/1846
Peter Miller was listed on the 1860 census in Grayson Co, TX. He was just a few houses from his brother Noah Miller.
1860 GRAYSON CO, TX Page 214B House/Family # 1082/1108 -- Twp SHERMAN P.O. MILLER PETER 45 M W FARMER 1000 1000 NC 1814/1815 MILLER AMY 38 F W DOMESTIC NC 1821/1822 MILLER WILLIAM F M 24 M W NC 1835/1836 MILLER JASPER 21 M W NC 1838/1839 MILLER JOSEPH N 16 M W NC 1843/1844 MILLER JOHN L 14 M W NC 1845/1846
.
Rachel Miller was born ca 1822/23 (per 1850 census), or quite possibly earlier than that, say ca 1820, probably in Buncombe Co, NC. I don't know what proof there is that Rachel is a child of Joseph Miller, but she does seem to fit. I'm not sure of her approximate birth date. In 1850 she was 27 (born ca 1822/23), though this doesn't jive well with analysis of earlier census records. It matches her 1860 entry as well, for it gives her as 37 that year.
She was apparently home with her parents for the 1820 census (age "under 10", born ca 1810/20), and apparently with them in 1830 (age 10-14, born ca 1815/20). She was not home with them in 1840, however, someone about her age was with her sister Cynthia and brother-in-law West Truitt, age 15-19 (born ca 1820/25). This might be her.
On 4 Feb 1846, Jeptha Caylor obtained a marriage bond in Macon Co, NC to marry "Rachel Miller", with Elijah Cross as bondsman (he was probably a cousin). According to data shared with me by Valerie Duvefelt, Jeptha C. Caylor was born 2 Sep 1827, a son of George F. Caylor and Rebecca Mehaffey. I have him born in Haywood Co, NC (where his parents seemed to be about that time), but Jeptha's children all reported their father was born in Georgia (per 1880 census records).
Jeptha and Rachel moved to Murray Co, GA between 1846 and ca 1847.
Jeptha and Rachel were listed on the 1850 census in Murray Co, GA just a few houses from her brother Peter Miller and his family.
1850 MURRAY CO, GA Page 174 House/Family # 383/ 383 CALER J C 23 M W LABORER NC 1826/1827 CALER RACHEL 27 F W NC 1822/1823 CALER JOHN H 4 M W GA 1845/1846 CALER JOSEPH B 2 M W GA 1847/1848
Jeptha and Rachel apparently left Georgia for Grayson Co, TX before 1852, joining several of her siblings (and his also).
Jeptha C. Caylor died in Grayson Co, TX on 17 Nov 1852.
The earliest Helen Kemeny Family Group sheets show Rachel Miller married to "Peter Bruce". I always thought this was some kind of mistake as the marriage date was the same one for Rachel and Jeptha Caylor. However, it turns out there is truth to this (except the marriage date), for Peter Bruce was Rachels second husband.
Widow Rachel Miller Caylor, married widower Peter M. Bruce sometime between 1852 and ca 1855 in Grayson County, Texas. Peter was born ca 1816/17 in Alabama (both facts per 1860 census). I dont know who his parents are. I have not found the name of his first wife either, but she apparently died sometime after ca 1843 (birth date of last known child).
Peter and Rachel were on the 1860 census in Grayson County, Texas just a few houses from her brother Noah Miller. All of Rachels Caylor children were listed as "Bruce" in this census.
1860 GRAYSON CO, TX Page 216 House/Family # 1114/1140 -- Twp SHERMAN P.O. BRUCE P M 43 M W FARMER 2400 1500 AL 1816/1817 BRUCE RACHEL M 37 F W DOMESTIC NC 1822/1823 BRUCE WILLIAM N 21 M W IL 1838/1839 BRUCE JOHN S 20 M W IL 1839/1840 BRUCE FRANCIS M 17 M W IL 1842/1843 BRUCE JOHN H 13 M W NC 1846/1847 BRUCE JOSEPH B 11 M W NC 1848/1849 BRUCE RUBEN J 10 M W GA 1849/1850 BRUCE GEORGE T 7 M W TX 1852/1853 BRUCE SARAH ANN 5 F W TX 1854/1855 BRUCE JAMES K POLK 2 M W TX 1857/1858 BRUCE AMANDA C 0 F W 7/12 TX 1859/1860 LOTHER ROBERT 9 M W TX 1850/1851
Olly Ann Miller was born ca 1822/23 (per 1850 census), in Haywood (now Macon ) Co, NC. I don't know what proof there is that Olly Ann is a child of Joseph Miller, but she does seem to fit. Helen Kemeny's data showed Olly Ann born ca 1819 and a twin of Polly Miller. However, the dates of their birth (based on census records) don't align, as Polly was born ca 1814, and Olly ca 1823. However, it is possible that Olly's date is off, as based only on the 1850 census. Olly was most likely named for her grandmother Olly Baker Cox, wife of Aaron Cox.
She was apparently home with her parents for the 1830 census (age 5-9, born ca 1820/25).
On 9 Nov 1839 George Lindsay ("George Lendsey") obtained a marriage bond in Macon Co, NC to marry "Ollyan Miller". Olly Ann's brother Noah Miller was the bondsman. Presumably they married that day, or within a week or so afterwards. George was born ca 1816/17 in South Carolina. I don't know who his parents were. He is possibly a brother to Martha Lindsay, wife of Noah Miller.
George Lindsay was listed on the 1840 census in Macon Co, NC, listed between Martha Grant (widow of Andrew Grant) and Laban Jones. This places him clearly in the Cowee Creek area. In the 1840 census, there was only George Lindsay and Timothy Lindsay listed, as far as Lindsays. Timothy is likely George's brother as they are about the same age, and George did name one of his sons "Timothy".
1840 census analysis (based on available evidence): (Explanation of this census)
1840 Macon Co, NC pg 161 George Lindsay 0000100000000-1000100000000 Analysis: 1 Male(s) 20-29 (1810-1820) George LINDSAY (1816/17) 1 Female(s) 20-29 (1810-1820) Olly Ann MILLER Lindsay (1822/23) wife 1 Female(s) 0-4 (1835-1840) Lavina LINDSAY (c1840) daughter
In September 1843 Court, George Lindsay and Noah Miller were listed as jurors. (Macon Co, NC Court Minutes 1838-1855, page 225).
George and Olly were listed on the 1850 census just a few houses from Olly's sister Margaret Lavina Miller Dehart. However, for this census, they mistakenly listed Olly as "Polly", though all other records show her as "Olly".
1850 MACON CO, NC Page 353 House/Family # 508/ 518 LINDSEY GEORGE 33 M W FARMER 150 SC 1816/1817 LINDSEY POLLY A 27 F W MACON CO, NC 1822/1823 LINDSEY LAVINA 9 F W MACON CO, NC 1840/1841 LINDSEY ELIZABETH 7 F W MACON CO, NC 1842/1843 LINDSEY WILLIAM 5 M W MACON CO, NC 1844/1845 LINDSEY JANE 2 F W MACON CO, NC 1847/1848 LINDSEY TIMOTHY 0 M W 2/12 MACON CO, NC 1849/1850
George and Olly must have moved somewhere after 1850, as I did not find them in Macon Co, NC. I found several George Lindsays listed on the 1860 census index in several states, but I don't know which of them might be them. I've checked a few of them, and so far have not located the right ones.
Neoma Miller (or "Naomi") was born ca 1824/25 (per 1880 census) or ca 1831/32 (per 1860 census), in Haywood (now Macon ) Co, NC. I don't know what proof there is that Naomi is a child of Joseph Miller, but she does seem to fit. Helen Kemeny's data showed "Neoma" born "1825", wife of Gideon Low. She is a Miller without doubt.
Naomi was apparently home with her parents for the 1830 census (age "under 5", born ca 1825/30), and apparently home in 1840 (age 10-14, born ca 1825/30).
Naomi Miller was not home in 1850, nor did I find her anywhere else that year. She was probably residing with a sibling, or other family, and just left off the census for some reason.
On 15 Oct 1855 "Naomi Miller" married Gideon Low in Jackson Co, NC. They were married by N. G. Abrams, Justice of the Peace. She was probably 21 by then, so didn't need her parents permission, and was also able to marry in a different county (it was tradition, and perhaps law, that a marriage had to take place in her normal county of residence). Gideon was born ca 1830/31 in Macon Co, NC, in the Toxaway River area (present Transylvania County). He was a son of Abraham and Margaret (---) Low. Gideon was a brother to Nancy Ellen Low who married Naomi's half brother Henry W. Miller.
In 1851, Jackson County was created from the eastern part of Macon County (and part of Haywood County) and at that time contained the former Macon County "Hogback" community (present Transylvania County). For some reason or another, Naomi Miller went to this area and got married. Some of her younger half-siblings moved there also, though apparently after she did.
They were listed on the 1860 census in Jackson Co, NC. This census taker listed almost everyone by initial only.
1860 JACKSON CO, NC Page 300B House/Family # 311/ 311 -- Twp WEBSTER P.O. LOW G 28 M W FARMER 300 600 NC 1831/1832 LOW N 28 F W NC 1831/1832 LOW M 5 F W NC 1854/1855 LOW A 2 M W NC 1857/1858 LOW S 1 F W NC 1858/1859
Transylvania County was formed in 1861 from part of Jackson County and included the Hogback community where the Lows lived.
I have not checked the 1870 index yet for them.
Gideon Low died sometime prior to 1880, for on that census Naomi was listed as a widow. Naomi and two children were living together in Hogback Township of Transylvania Co, NC in 1880. ** I don't have this entry typed up yet.
I have not yet checked the 1900, 1910 or 1920 census' for Naomi.
Helen's data shows that Naomi died on 28 Mar 1927 in Transylvania Co, NC, and also that she is buried at Lake Toxaway Baptist Church's cemetery.
John Kinsey Miller was born 10 Dec 1826 (per Helen Kemeny's data, I don't know what source she used). He was born in Haywood (now Macon) Co, NC, per the 1850 census which lists his birth place as "Macon", though it did not exist yet in 1826, still part of Haywood at that time. I don't know what the source for his middle name is either. Records do show he had "K" for a middle initial, so "Kinsey" is probably correct.
As far as I know, John is not a proven child of Joseph Miller, but he most likely is his son. His name was included on the earliest Family Group sheets that I've found for this family, and he did live close by, so it all seems likely.
John was apparently home with his parents for the 1830 census (age "under 5", born ca 1825/30), and apparently home in 1840 (age 10-14, born ca 1825/30).
In June 1845 Court, John Miller was listed as a member of a road crew under Richard Clampett, overseer of Burningtown Road. (Macon Co, NC Court Minutes 1838-1855 page 305).
On 22 Dec 1846, "John K. Miller" obtained a marriage bond in Macon Co, NC to marry Arlena Tabor. J. C. Tabor was the bondsman (probably her brother). Arlena Tabor was born 16 Jun 1829 in Macon Co, NC, child of Nathan Tabor and Elizabeth Condra. This data about Arlena's birth date and her family came from various researchers. I don't know what sources were used. Her name is also given as "Arrena" on several records. I don't know which is the correct spelling.
John and Arlena and family were listed on the 1850 census in Macon Co, NC just two houses from John's sister Mary Miller Grant. They were next door to Arlena's parents. As far as I can tell, they were all living on Mill Creek, just west of Franklin, NC.
1850 MACON CO, NC Page 378 House/Family # 844/ 859 - SAVANAH Twp MILLER JOHN 24 M W FARMER 100 MACON CO, NC 1825/1826 MILLER ARENA 21 F W MACON CO, NC 1828/1829 MILLER MARY ANN 2 F W MACON CO, NC 1847/1848 MILLER HENRY 0 M W 4/12 MACON CO, NC 1849/1850
The 1850 Agriculture schedule of the 1850 census shows that John Miller had 20 acres of improved land, and 50 acres of unimproved land.
Sometime around 1850 or 1851, John K. Miller and family moved west to Grayson County, Texas, and remained there. I have not done much research on them there, but other researchers have shared various bits of family data on them.
John K. Miller was listed on the 1860 census in Grayson Co, TX, not too far (just a few pages) from his brothers Noah and Peter Miller and sister Rachel Bruce.
1860 GRAYSON CO, TX Page 220 House/Family # 1076/1202 -- Twp SHERMAN P.O. MILLER JOHN K 35 M W FARMER 1500 500 NC 1824/1825 MILLER ARENA 32 F W DOMESTIC NC 1827/1828 MILLER MARY ANN 19 F W NC 1840/1841 MILLER JOHN K 14 M W NC 1845/1846 MILLER WILLIAM THOMAS 7 M W NC 1852/1853
I did not look for them on the 1870 census yet, but did find them in Grayson Co, TX for the 1880 census, in Denison Township. ** I don't have this entry typed up yet.
According to the data that has been shared with me, John K. Miller died in Grayson Co, TX on 1 Jan 1908. I don't have a death date for Arlena Tabor.
I have birth dates (and in some cases death dates) for various members of this family, as shared with me by other researchers.
Margaret Lavina Miller was born ca 1831/32 in Macon Co, NC. She is not a proven child of Joseph Miller, but she is most likely his daughter. Her name was included on the earliest Family Group sheets that I've found for this family (always just as "Lavina Miller") and those same group sheets show her married to "Pat Dehart" or "Patton Dehart".
Lavina Miller was apparently home with her parents for the 1840 census (age 5-9, born ca 1830/35).
On 30 Aug 1849, John P. Dehart (John Patton Dehart) obtained a marriage bond in Macon Co, NC to marry "Margaret L. Miller". Solomon Truitt was the bondsman. They were married on 2 Sep 1849 by Allen Ammons, Minister. John Patton Dehart was born September 1831 (per 1900 census) in Macon Co, NC. Dehart researchers show him as a child of William Dehart and Sarah Lovelace.
Patton and Lavina were listed on the 1850 census in Macon Co, NC a few houses from sister Olly Miller Lindsay. They were listed between Wilkie Grant and Rebecca Bryson (widow of Samuel D. Bryson).
1850 MACON CO, NC Page 352B House/Family # 503/ 513 - TENNESSEE VALLEY Twp DEHART PATTON 19 M W FARMER MACON 1830/1831 DEHART LAVINA 18 F W MACON 1831/1832
Margaret Lavina Miller Dehart died sometime between 1850 and 13 Jan 1855 (when Patton remarried). As far as I can tell, they had no children (or none that survived, anyway).
John Patton Dehart married Mary Thomason on 13 Jan 1855. Mary died in the 1860-66 timeframe. Patton married again to Samantha Taylor ca 1866 in Macon Co, NC (no record found). She died sometime between 1880 and 1899 when he married once again, to Sarah Sheppard on 3 Sep 1899 in Swain Co, NC. He had several children by his 2nd and 3rd wives.
Sarah T. Miller was born ca 1833/34 in Macon Co, NC. She is not a proven child of Joseph Miller, and her name was not included on the earliest Family Group sheets that I've found. Though Lawrence Wood shared one with me that included her name (but no additional data on her). He said it came to him via Helen Kemeny "many years ago", so at some point she found a Sarah that belonged to Joseph. With no additional data included though, I have to wonder where her name was obtained.
I found a "Sarah T. Miller" who married in Macon Co, NC in 1853, and in 1860 were just a few houses from Aaron Miller. All evidence points to her being a child of Joseph Miller, and quite possibly the last child born to Sarah Cox Miller. If Sarah Cox died in childbirth (as many suspect), this child was probably the last, and named after her mother. I don't know what the "T" middle initial stands for. She was born ca 1833/34, about the time Sarah Cox Miller apparently died.
Sarah was apparently home with her father Joseph Miller in 1840 (age 5-9, born ca 1830/35). She was not at home in 1850, nor could I find her anywhere else in 1850. She was probably residing temporarily with a sibling or other relative, but not enumerated with them.
On 31 May 1853 James H. Revell obtained a marriage bond to marry "Sarah Miller" in Macon Co, NC. There was no bondsman listed. They were married the same day by B. McHan, Justice of the Peace. James H. Revell was born 1836/37 in Nash Co, NC. I don't know who his parents were. I did not find him on the 1850 census, though there was a John Revell family in Macon Co, NC that year, with the older family members born in Sampson Co, NC, and many others in Burke Co, NC. There was no "James" listed, but a "Henry" and a "Henderson", either one of which could be the same person. Neither was a good age match though. All members of this family were listed with a race code of "M" (Mulatto). See my pages on Ethnic origins for more info on this subject.
James and Sarah and their children were listed on the 1860 census in Macon Co, NC in Welch's District (now Swain County, NC, I believe). They were all listed with race of "M", strongly suggesting a connection to the 1850 family of the same surname. They were about 20 houses from Aaron Miller, Sarah's supposed brother. ** I don't have this entry typed up yet.
James and Sarah (Miller) Revell moved to Christian Co, IL in the 1860's. I have not checked the 1870 census yet, but they were listed there in 1880 in Taylorville Township. ** I don't have this entry typed up yet. On this record, Sarah was listed as "Sarah T. M. Revel". The "M" initial is probably representative of her maiden name "Miller".
Henry Woodfin Miller was born 4 Jul 1835 in Macon Co, NC. I'm not sure who he might have been named for. I'm also not sure if Henry is the first child to Joseph Miller's second marriage, or if he is the last child to his first marriage. Most of the earlier researchers listed him from the second marriage.
He was apparently home with his parents for the 1840 census (age "under 5", born ca 1835/40), and with them in 1850 ("Henry W. Miller", age 15, born ca 1834/35).
Henry Miller married Nancy Ellen Low on 22 Dec 1853 in Macon or Jackson Co, NC. I don't have a source for that date, nor did I find a public marriage record. Nancy Ellen Low was born ca 1832/33 in Macon Co, NC, daughter of Abraham and Margaret (---) Low. She was a sister to Gideon Low who married Henry Miller's sister Naomi Miller.
Henry and family were listed on the 1860 census in Macon Co, NC, just a few houses from his parents.
1860 MACON CO, NC Page 245 House/Family # 236/ 244 -- TENNESSEE VALLEY Twp MILLER H W 24 M W FARMER 250 150 MACON CO, NC 1835/1836 MILLER NANCY E 24 F W MACON CO, NC 1835/1836 MILLER SUSA T M 5 F W MACON CO, NC 1854/1855 MILLER GIDEON 4 M W MACON CO, NC 1855/1856 MILLER JOSEPH J R 3 M W MACON CO, NC 1856/1857 MILLER ALFRED H 1 M W MACON CO, NC 1858/1859 MILLER LETTA J 0 F W 1/12 MACON CO, NC 1859/1860
For the Civil War, Henry W. Miller enlisted as a Private on 7 Jul 1862 in 7th Battalion, NC Cavalry, Company A. He was listed as age 28, and a resident of Macon Co, NC. He was transferred to Company E, 65th Regiment, NC Troops on 3 Aug 1863. After his transfer, he was reported Absent without leave Sept-Dec 1863, and no further records on him.
During the 1860's, Henry and family moved over into neighboring Jackson County, into Cashiers Valley, and were listed there on the 1870 census.
1870 JACKSON CO, NC Page 236B House/Family # 48/ 48--CASHIERS VALLEY Twp MILLER HENRY W 36 M W FARMER 169 NC 1833/1834 MILLER NANCY ELLEN 38 F W KEEPING HOUSE NC 1831/1832 MILLER SUSAN 16 F W AT HOME NC 1853/1854 MILLER GEDEAN 14 M W AT HOME NC 1855/1856 MILLER JOSEPH Jr 13 M W AT HOME NC 1856/1857 MILLER ALFRED H 11 M W AT HOME NC 1858/1859 MILLER LETTIE JANE 9 F W AT HOME NC 1860/1861 MILLER MARY LAURA 7 F W NC 1862/1863 MILLER ARTHUR A 6 M W TWIN OF THOMAS NC 1863/1864 MILLER THOMAS ALBERT 6 M W TWIN OF ARTHUR NC 1863/1864 MILLER DAVID H 5 M W NC 1864/1865 MILLER ELISABETH A 4 F W NC 1865/1866 MILLER JACOB T 1 M W NC 1868/1869 MILLER 0 M W 1/12 MAY 1870 NC 1869/1870
By 1880, Henry had moved again, this time to Hogback Township of Transylvania County, NC. Lawrence Wood told me they lived in the Sapphire community He was listed there on the 1880 census. ** I don't have this entry typed up yet.
Nancy Ellen Low Miller died sometime between 1880 and 1892 in Transylvania Co, NC. She is buried at the Miller Cemetery in Sapphire community of Transylvania Co, NC (this is not the same Miller Cemetery where Henry's parents are buried).
Henry W. Miller married Martha Jane Reid on 19 Jun 1892 in Transylvania Co, NC. Martha was born 16 May 1858, daughter of John H. Reid and Millie Ann ---.
I don't have the 1900, 1910 and 1920 census entries for this family yet, though I suppose they were in Transylvania County each of those years.
Henry Woodfin Miller died on 28 Jan 1930 and is buried at the Miller Cemetery in Transylvania Co, NC. According to Helen Kemeny's notes, Henry Miller is buried at a family graveyard in Hogback Township on Horespasture River where his old home stood.
Martha died on 26 Jun 1933 and is buried at the Union Cemetery at Whitewater, in Transylvania Co, NC.
Joel D. Miller was born Jan 1838 (per 1900 census), though this date conflicts with his sister Juletta Miller born Sep 1838. One of the dates may be off by a year. Joel was born in Macon Co, NC. There is some confusion about Joel's middle name (or names). He is remembered by many as "Joel Bunyon Miller", but most of the records for him show him as Joel D. Miller, and one even shows him as Joel A. Miller. I'm not sure how to reconcile all of this.
He was apparently home with his parents for the 1840 census (age "under 5", born ca 1835/40), and with them in 1850 ("Joel A. Miller", age 13, born ca 1836/37).
On 28 Feb 1859, Joel B. Miller obtained a marriage bond in Macon Co, NC to marry "Elizabeth Hughston" (Elizabeth A. Houston). Isaac T. Henderson was bondsman. They were married on 2 Mar 1859 by I. N. Keener, Justice of the Peace.
Elizabeth A. Houston was born 3 May 1842 in Person Co, NC, daughter of James Houston and Lavina Allen. Elizabeth was sister to John W. Houston who married Juletta Miller, sister of Joel Miller.
Joel and Elizabeth were listed on the 1860 census in Macon Co, NC next door to his parents.
1860 MACON CO, NC Page 245 House/Family # 232/ 240 -- TENNESSEE VALLEY Twp MILLER JOEL D 22 M W FARMER 100 MACON CO, NC 1837/1838 MILLER ELIZABETH 16 F W PERSON CO, NC 1843/1844
Joel and family were listed on the 1870 census in Macon Co, NC in Sugar Fork Township, still next door to his parents.
1870 MACON CO, NC Page 337 House/Family # 2/ 2--SUGAR FORK Twp MILLER J D 33 M W FARMER 200 NC 1836/1837 MILLER ELIZABETH A 28 F W KEEPING HOUSE NC 1841/1842 MILLER DAVID J 4 M W NC 1865/1866 MILLER ADA L 2 F W NC 1867/1868 MILLER AARON B 0 M W 3/12 MAR 1870 NC 1869/1870
Joel and family were listed on the 1880 census in Sugar Fork Township, next door to brother David L. Miller.
1880 MACON CO, NC Page 498B House/Family # 33/ 33 -- SUGAR FORK Twp MILLER JOEL D W M 42 HD M FARMER NC NC NC 1837/1838 MILLER ELIZABETH W F 38 WF M NC NC NC 1841/1842 MILLER DAVID I W M 14 S S NC NC NC 1865/1866 MILLER ALVA K W F 12 D S NC NC NC 1867/1868 MILLER ANN B W F 10 D S NC NC NC 1869/1870 MILLER GEORGE S W M 8 S S NC NC NC 1871/1872 MILLER JOSEE L W F 5 D S NC NC NC 1874/1875 MILLER RICHARD H W M 3 S S NC NC NC 1876/1877
Joel and family were in Highlands Township for the 1900 census.
1900 MACON CO, NC Page House/Family # 76/ 76--HIGHLANDS Twp MILLER JOEL D HD W M JAN 1838 62 M 41 NC NC NC FARMER MILLER ELISABETH A WF W F MAY 1842 58 M 41 11 7 NC NC NC MILLER LIZZIE D W F OCT 1881 18 S NC NC NC McCURE PARKER J SE W M DEC 1885 14 S NC NC NC
I have not checked the 1910 census for them yet.
Elizabeth Houston Miller died on 24 Sep 1911 and is buried at the Buck Creek Cemetery in Macon Co, NC.
I have not checked the 1920 census for Joel Miller yet.
Joel Miller died ca 1932 according to some source.
Juletta M. Miller was born 14 Sep 1838 (source?) in Macon Co, NC. She was apparently home with her parents for the 1840 census (age "under 5", born ca 1835/40), and with them in 1850 ("Letta M. Miller", age 11, born ca 1838/39), and with them still in 1860 ("Letta M. Miller", age 21, born ca 1838/39).
On 5 Dec 1860, John W. Houston obtained a marriage bond in Macon Co, NC to marry "Letitia M. Miller", with Henry W. Miller (her brother) as bondsman. They were married the following day (6 Dec 1860) by T. W. Owen, Justice of the Peace.
John W. Houston was born ca 1832/33 in Person Co, NC, son of James Houston and Lavina Allen. John was a brother to Elizabeth Houston who married Joel D. Miller, Letta's brother.
John and Letta were listed on the 1870 census in Macon Co, NC, in Blue Ridge Township.
1870 MACON CO, NC Page 270 House/Family # 3/ 4--BLUE RIDGE Twp HOUSTON J W 36 M W FARMER 100 NC 1833/1834 HOUSTON LETTA 29 F W KEEPING HOUSE NC 1840/1841 HOUSTON JEFFERSON F 8 M W NC 1861/1862 HOUSTON ELBERT A 3 M W NC 1866/1867 HOUSTON JOHN T 3 M W NC 1866/1867
John and Letta were listed on the 1880 census in Macon Co, NC, very close to her widowed mother. ** I don't have this entry typed up yet.
I don't have them on the 1900 or later census records yet.
Amanda Jane Miller was born ca 1840/41 in Macon Co, NC. She was home with her parents for the 1850 census ("Amanda J. Miller", age 9, born ca 1840/41).
On 10 Jul 1856, "Mandy J. Miller" married John A. Stiwinter in neighboring Jackson Co, NC. They were married by N. G. Abrams. John was born ca 1835/36 in Macon Co, NC, son of George and Nancy (---) Stiwinter.
I did not find John and Amanda on the 1860 census. They were not in Macon Co, NC. They had a child in 1862 who was born in TN, so perhaps they had moved to TN before 1860.
According to the late Lawrence Wood, John Stiwinter died during the Civil War (1861/1865), leaving Amanda Jane a widow.
I did not find Amanda on the 1870 or later census records, so I don't know if she remarried, or died, or was just living outside of Macon County.
One of Helen Kemeny's old Family Group sheets (possibly from the late 1950's) shows Amanda married to "Ned White", so perhaps that was a second husband.
I only know of one child (George born 1862) for John and Amanda. His name was given to me by Lawrence Wood who either knew him personally, or knew some of George's children.
David L. Miller was born 2 Nov 1845 (per tombstone). His earlier census records give his birth at ca 1842/43, so his tombstone might be off a couple of years. He was born in Macon Co, NC. He was home with his parents for the 1850 census ("David L. Miller", age 7, born ca 1842/43), and with them for the 1860 census ("David L. Miller" age 17, born ca 1850/51), and with them in 1870 ("Joseph I. Miller", age 18, born ca 1851/52).
I suppose that David was named after his Uncle David Miller. I don't know what his "L" middle initial was for.
David L. Miller married Alice Louisa Vaughn on 14 Mar 1866 in Macon Co, NC. They were married by I. P. Keener, Justice of the Peace. Louisa was born 21 Jun 1847 in Macon Co, NC, daughter of Archibald Vaughn and Alice Kerby.
David and Louisa were listed on the 1870 census in Macon Co, NC, in Sugar Fork Township, next door to his parents.
1870 MACON CO, NC Page 337 House/Family # 4/ 4--SUGAR FORK Twp MILLER DAVID 24 M W FARMER 150 190 NC 1845/1846 MILLER LOUISA 22 F W KEEPING HOUSE NC 1847/1848 MILLER JOSEPH H 3 M W NC 1866/1867 MILLER AMANDA J 2 F W NC 1867/1868
David and family were listed on the 1880 census in Sugar Fork Township, next door to brother Joel D. Miller.
1880 MACON CO, NC Page 498B House/Family # 32/ 32 -- SUGAR FORK Twp MILLER DAVID L W M 34 HD M FARMER NC NC NC 1845/1846 MILLER ALICE L W F 33 WF M NC NC NC 1846/1847 MILLER JOSEPH H W M 13 S S NC NC NC 1866/1867 MILLER SARAH E W F 8 D S NC NC NC 1871/1872 MILLER MARY M W F 7 D S NC NC NC 1872/1873 MILLER JERRYMIAH W M 4 S S NC NC NC 1875/1876 MILLER DAVID L W M 1 S S NC NC NC 1878/1879
They were on the 1900 census in Highlands Township next door to son Jerry Miller.
1900 MACON CO, NC Page House/Family # 106/ 106--HIGHLANDS Twp MILLER DAVID HD W M NOV 1845 54 M 34 NC NC NC MILLER ALICE WF W F JUN 1846 53 M 34 10 8 NC NC NC MILLER DOCIA D W F SEP 1875 24 S NC NC NC MILLER HUGH O S W M JUN 1882 18 S NC NC NC MILLER JOEL A S W M FEB 1883 17 S NC NC NC MILLER DAVID L S W M OCT 1878 21 M NC NC NC MILLER SARA A DL W F MAY 1884 16 M NC NC NC
** I don't have the 1910 or 1920 census entries for this family yet.
Alice Louisa Vaughn Miller died on 10 Aug 1903 in Macon Co, NC and is buried at the Miller Cemetery.
David L. Miller died on 27 Nov 1934 in Macon Co, NC. He is buried at the Miller Cemetery, not too far from his parents graves.
Joseph Irons Miller was born 19 Apr 1851 in Macon Co, NC. He was home with his parents for 1860 census ("Joseph I. Miller" age 9, born ca 1850/51), and with them in 1870 ("Joseph I. Miller", age 18, born ca 1851/52).
I suppose that Joseph was named after his father, in part at least. I don't know where the "Irons" comes from.
On 10 Aug 1873, Joseph I. Miller age 22, married Mary I. Henderson age 24 in Macon Co, NC. They were married by J. D. Vinson, Minister. Mary was born ca 1847/48 in Macon Co, NC, daughter of Canada Henderson and Mary Tillery.
Joseph and Mary and family were listed on the 1880 census in Macon Co, NC in Sugar Fork Township.
1880 MACON CO, NC Page 501 House/Family # 72/ 72 -- SUGAR FORK Twp MILLER JOSEPH I W M 32 HD M FARMER NC NC NC 1847/1848 MILLER MARY W F 29 WF M NC NC NC 1850/1851 MILLER SUSAN H L W F 3 D S NC NC NC 1876/1877 MILLER JOSEPH I W M 2 S S NC NC NC 1877/1878 MILLER CORDELIA L W F 1 D S NC NC NC 1878/1879
I didn't find Joseph and family on the 1900 census yet, but I suspect they were in Transylvania County, NC then.
Joseph I. Miller died on 18 Sep 1936 in Transylvania Co, NC. I don't know when Mary died.
Helen Kemeny's notes show that Joseph Irons Miller is buried in Oak Grove Cemetery at Quebec, Hogback Township in Transylvania Co, NC.
Eliza Elvira T. Miller was born ca 1855/56 in Macon Co, NC. She was home with her parents for 1860 census ("Eliza E. T. Miller" age 4, born ca 1855/56), and with them in 1870 ("Elizabeth E. Miller", age 12, born ca 1857/58).
None of the official records I've seen give "Elvira" as one of her names, so I'm not sure where that came from. It must be from Helen Kemeny's research or shared with me by someone else. I also received some data on this branch from Louise Wright.
On 15 Jan 1877 Eliza Miller married John W. Henry in Macon Co, NC. They were married by J. D. Vinson, Minister. John W. Henry was born ca 1857/58 in Georgia. His parents are not known.
John and Eliza were listed on the 1880 census in Blue Ridge Township, next door to her widowed mother Susan Grant Miller.
1880 MACON CO, NC Page 506B House/Family # 75/ 76 -- BLUE RIDGE Twp HENRY J W W M 22 M FARMER GA GA SC 1857/1858 HENRY E E W F 23 WF M KEEPING HOUSE NC NC NC 1856/1857 HENRY D W W M 2 S S AT HOME NC GA NC 1877/1878
Apparently this family remained in Macon Co, NC a few more years, and then at some point prior to 1900 moved to Texas. I don't know where exactly.
Charles Thomas Miller was born October 1858 (per 1900 census), though based on earlier census records it seems more likely that he was born October 1860. He was not home with his parents in 1860, so probably not born yet. He was home with them in 1870 (age 10, born ca 1869/70), and home with his widowed mother in 1880 (age 19, born ca 1860/61). He was probably born in Macon Co, NC.
It is possible (but unproven) that Charles Thomas was named after his mother's two Uncles, Thomas B. Grant and Charles B. Grant. Since she was an orphan, it is likely she was very close to them. This is just a guess though.
On 19 Aug 1881, Charles Miller married Telitha A. McCoy in Macon Co, NC. They were married by J. A. Deal, Minister. Telitha was born 26 Nov 1862 in Knox Co, TN (both per Claire Morelli). She was a child of James C. McCoy and Sarah Ann Rogers.
Charles and family were listed on the 1900 census in Macon Co, NC in Highlands Township just a few houses from his brother Joel Miller.
1900 MACON CO, NC Page House/Family # 85/ 85--HIGHLANDS Twp MILLER CHARLES HD W M OCT 1858 41 M 21 NC NC NC FARMER MILLER TELITHA WF W F OCT 1860 39 M 21 12 12 NC NC NC MILLER LORANZY D W F DEC 1883 16 S NC NC NC MILLER MONROE W S W M FEB 1886 14 S NC NC NC MILLER EULAS G S W M APR 1887 13 S NC NC NC MILLER DAVID C S W M OCT 1888 11 S NC NC NC MILLER HATTIE D W F JUN 1890 9 S NC NC NC MILLER JOHN S W M APR 1892 8 S NC NC NC MILLER LARRY S W M AUG 1893 6 S NC NC NC MILLER MARTHA D W F AUG 1895 4 S NC NC NC MILLER ISABEL D W F NOV 1896 3 S NC NC NC MILLER ELLAFAIR D W F APR 1898 2 S NC NC NC MILLER CORA D W F JUL 1899 0 S NC NC NC 11/12
According to Claire's research on the family, Charles and Telitha moved to Vale, Baker Co, Oregon shortly after 1900, and remained there a few years, then moved to Springfield, Lane Co, Oregon, and later moving to Alberta, Canada.
** I don't have 1910 and 1920 census entries for this family yet.
Charles Thomas Miller died in Mahaska, Albert, Canada on 1 Jun 1932 (per Claire Morelli).
Apparently Telitha moved back to Oregon after this. Telitha McCoy Miller died in Eugene, Lane Co, OR on 5 Dec 1950 (per Claire Morelli).
Persons researching this family (click here for data on how to get on or off of this list):
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