(Riggen, Riggan, Riggon, Regan, Regon, Rigon, Riggins)

pg 2 0f 2 ----to pg. 1

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Last Updated 06 Jan 2000

Bayard (Byard, Biard) Riggin's family

Bayard Riggin was born in Atkinson district of Worcester Co. c.1817. He was not a wealthy man, hewing lumber, blacksmithing, farming and laboring most of his life. The only land he maintained was a tract called Fockabus, near or part of Fookes Cost/Cast, Peters Folly, and Abrahams Lott, apparently inherited from his father who died intestate. His part was only about 28 acres, next door to his uncle Joseph Riggin and brother Henry Irving Riggin. This area was on the Worcester/ Wicomico Counties border, southeast of Salisbury and very near the original land grant of Riggen's Content. His wife Eleanor Pollitt had a little bit of land she likely inherited from her father, and was the only one that could read and write. The few deeds of land sold contain her signature. Bayard and his wife seemed extremely influenced by the Methodist Church and their leader John Wesley, by the evidence that his only child bore his name John Wesley Riggin. I also believe Bayard's father may have been James Riggin the Methodist minister and circuit rider, who was ordained in Baltimore in 1784 and resided in Worcester and Sussex county Del.

Eleanor Pollitt Riggin, Bayard's wife, did not seem to have good health, aside from only bearing one child, she was dead by the 1870 census, when Bayard was living in his son's household in Nutter's District of Wicomico Co. But in 1881, this probably 65 year old man, listed his age as 60 in the Wicomico Co. Marriage records and married a 25 year old Nancy Pepper. Soon after in 1889 Bayard and his wife Nancy sell 28 acres in Atkinson district to his relative Sophia. At his point Bayard disappears from the records. A Nancy Riggin b ca. 1818 residing w/ the Pepper family living in Atkinsons dist., Worcester Co. in 1900 census.

Hannah/Harriet Riggin b ca 1830 m. Samuel Pepper Atkinsons dist, Worcester Co, MD

Some have speculated that the Pepper family moved to Kansas about this time period and possibly ventured west with them. I suspect Bayard's health was failing when his sold his land and died soon after, still to poor to have a tombstone erected and likely buried on the Riggin farm in Nutter District.

James Morris (1780-1873) ledger showing wages paid to Biard Riggin for labor

1.*Bayard Riggin, (Byard, Biard) b.1817 Worc. Co. MD prof. Hewer, Blacksmith, Woodwright, Laborer, Farmer b. ca. 1817 Worcester County, MD, (may have moved to Kansas q.v.), m.(1st). 7 Nov 1842 Worcester County, MD Eleanor Pollitt, b. ca. 1817, d. bef 1880, m.(2nd). 22 Feb 1881 Wicomico County, MD Nancy E. Pepper, b. ca 1856, d. after 3-2-1889 bd.? may have moved to Kansas with other members of Pepper family.

2.1. John Wesley Riggin, b. 7-1-1845 Atkinson Dist.Worc. Co. MD m. 12-21-1868 Nutter's District Wic Co. MD d. 1-8-1914 Salisbury MD. bd. Parson's Cemetery Salisbury MD. prof. Wheelwright, Blacksmith, Woodwright at farm in Nutter's District Wicomico Co. MD.b. 1 Jul 1845, d. 8 Jan 1915, m. 1868 (picture shown c. 1868)-only child

 

Leah Martha Wimbrow, b. 10 Mar 1844, d. 2 Jul 1941 at home, 521 South Division St., Salisbury, MD (daguerreotype showed below with twins John Wesley Riggin, Jr. and William Thomas Riggin c. 1872)

John Wesley Riggin, granddaughter Dorothy, Leah Martha Wimbrow Riggin--probably at Ocean City Md. c. 1900

3.1. Levin Riggin, b. ca 1869, d. as young man No issue

3.2. James Lewis Riggin, b. 11 Feb 1870, d. 18 Sep 1894 at home (of Long Ridge) of typhoid fever. Bur. In family burying ground. Licensed to exhort of Methodist Protestant Church. No issue

3.3 John Wesley Riggin, Jr.,(was twin to brother Wm Thomas) b. 14 Mar 1872, d. 24 Dec 1950 at home, 404 South Division St. by accidental gas poisoning, m. 1909 Emma Serman, dau of John W. and Sarah Sturgis Sirman of Worcester County. Emma Serman, b. 25 Dec 1876, d. 1 Jan 1963 at John B. Parsons Home for the Aged, Salisbury, MD. She was survived by four sisters.

4.1 Eloise Riggin, b. 13 Jun 1909, d. 6:30 pm, 31 Aug 1927 at Peninsula General Hospital after a six month illness due to heart trouble. Bur. Parsons cem. No issue

3.4. William Thomas Riggin,(shown right) (was twin to brother John Wesley Jr.)b. 14 Mar 1872, d. 23 Jan 1958 in at University of Pennsylvania Hospital, a patient for four weeks, bur. Fernwood cem., East Lansdowne, Delaware County, PA, m. 13 Sep 1890 at Union M. E. Church, Nutters Dist., Wicomico County, MD Martha Thomas Bussells*, b. ca 1871, d. 17 Feb 1957, Lansdowne, Delaware County, PA. Bur. Fernwood cem., East Lansdowne, Delaware County, PA. Martha was the daug. of Gillis and Charlotte (Carey) Bussells. (Note - death date on ob. For Martha in bible is written in ink and differs from above. Appears to be 17 Feb 1962)

 

4.1. William Clifton Riggin, b. 1 Nov 1890, d. 28 May 1898.bd. Parsons Cem. Salisbury Md.

4.3. Beulah Riggin, b. aft 1890, d. aft 1960, m. 1906 Clyde Smith, b. Pittsburg, Pa. aft 1888

4.4. Clifford Wesley Riggin, b. 18 Sep 1908, d. 2 Sep 1910 bd. Parsons Cem. Salisbury Md.

4.5. Raymond Riggin, b. aft 1908, d. aft 1937, m. 1908 Amme Deupty

5.1 Robert Riggin
5.1 Allen Riggin

4.2. Herman Francis Riggin,(shown right) b. 20 Jul 1902 Philadelphia, PA, d. Jun 1969 Philadelphia, PA,. m. 21 May 1927 M. E. Church, Bridgeville, DE., Mary Catherine Willey, b. 8 Nov 1900, d. 8 Nov 1972, divorced. 19 Jun 1948, m.2. Ralph Gustav Ehrlich, bur. Seaford Public cem.

5.1. Donald Allen Riggin, b. 3 Sep 1929 Philadelphia, PA, d. 10 Nov 1970 Silver Spring, MD, bur. Rockville cem., Rockville, MD, m. 2 Sep 1954 Philadelphia, PA, Marcia NanciElla Purtle, b. 13Apr 1934

3.5. Nutter Moses Riggin, b. 1875, d. 1953 in Audobon, NJ, m. 1893 Retta Moore

4.1 George M. Riggin, b. est. 1905

4.2. Margaret Elizabeth Riggin, b. 18 Jan 1910, m. 1931 George Keller Walker, b. 9 May 1906

5.1. Joan Margaret Walker m. w/2 children

5.2. George Keller Walker, Jr., b. 22 Jun 1933, d. 4 Jun 1970 No issue

3.6. Mary Catherine Riggin, b. 14 Mar 1878, d. 20 Sep 1952 at home, 637 South Divison St., Salisbury, MD, bur. Parsons cem. No issue

3.7. Charles H. Riggin, b. May 1880, d. 1927 No issue

3.8. Sarah Martha Riggin, b. , d. 19 Sep 1959 at home, 717 South Division St., Salisbury, MD, bur. Parsons cem., m. 24 Apr 1907 Levin Merrill Morris, b. , d. 1 Sep 1946, bur. Parsons cem.

4.1. Dorothy Catherine Morris, b. 6 Sep 1908, d. , bur. Parsons cem. No issue

3.9. Annie M. Riggin*, b. 25 Jan 1886, d. 3 Nov 1957, bur. Parsons cem, m. Woodland G. Godfrey. No issue

Marriages

Wm. T. Riggin and Martha Bussels was married _______
John W. Riggin and Emma Sirman was married 24 of Feb.
Nutter M. Riggin and Retta Sparks (Moore) was married March 20 1907
Sarah M. Riggin and Levin M. Morris was married April 24 1907
Margaret E. Riggin and George Keller Walker were married January 1st 1931

Barnard Riggin and Eleanor Pollitt were married in 1842

Births

Barnard Riggin b. 1817
Eleanor Pollitt b. 1817
John Wesley Riggin was borned in the year of our Lord July 1st 1845
Lear M. Riggin was borned in the year of our Lord March 10th 1844

James L. Riggin was borned in the year of our Lord Feb 11th 1870
William T. Riggin was borned in the year of our Lord March 14th 1873
Nutter M. Riggin was borned in the year of our Lord Aug. 13th 1874
Charlie H. Riggin wasw borned in the year of our Lord May 10th 1880
Sarah M. Riggin was borned in the year of our Lord ---8th 1883
Annie M. Riggin was borned in the year of our Lord. Jan 25th 1886

Age of Mr. and Mrs. Wm. T. Riggin's family
Raymond G. Riggin was borned in the year of our Lord May 1st 1892
Beaulah M. Riggin was borned in the year of our Lord Nov. 11 1894
William C. Riggin was borned in the year of our Lord Nov. 1st 1896

Dorothy Catherine Morris was borned in the year of our Lord Sept 6 1908
Clifford Wesley Riggin was borned in the year of our Lord Sept 19 1908
Eloise Riggin was borned in the year of our Lord June 13 1909
Margaret Elizabeth Riggin was born in th year of our Lord January 18th 1910
Deaths
George K. Walker 1906-1992 husband of Margaret Riggin
Margaret Riggin Walker 1910-1996
James L. Riggin died Sept. 18th 1894
John Wesley Riggin died Jan. 8 1914 (Sr.)
Chas. H. Riggin died Feb 22 1927
Eloise Riggin died Aug. 31 1927
N. M. Riggin died Feb 29 1953
John Riggin died Dec. 24 1951 (Jr.)
Mary Riggin died Sept. 20 1955
Mrs. W. T. Riggin died Feb 17 1956
Lear Martha Riggin died July 2 1941
S. Martha Morris died Sept 19 1959
Annie M. Godfrey died Nov. 3 1957
Woodland Godfrey died Sept 17 1933
Clyde Smith died Feb. 27 1955
William T. Riggin died Jan 23 1958
Beaulah Riggin Smith died Feb 14th 1975
Dorothy Catherine Morris died July 24th 1985
Clifford Wesley Riggin died Sept 2nd 1910
William C. Riggin died May 28th 1898
Margaret Riggin Walker Mar. 21 1996 Westminster Cem. services St. David's Episcopal Church, Wayne PA.

Notes
Nutter Moses Riggin b. 8/13/1874 m.3/20/07 Retta Sparks Moore, died 2/29/53 St. Georges, Delaware. Cemetary- Locustwood, Erlton N.J.
Nutter M. Riggin of Wilmington DE. and Retta Moore of Wilminton DE m. Wilmington DE 20 March 1907
Retta Moore Riggin d. 12/16/15

Application for Marriage Certificate
Beulah M. Riggin , white, Dressmaker b. Maryland 11 Nov 1894 res. 1335 S. Wilton SW Phila. d/o William T. and Martha Bussells Riggin. Occupation of father Insurance, mother -housekeeper both b. Maryland
Clyde P. Smith, white b. Phila PA 29 Apr. 1887 res 25 N. Paxon St. W. Phila married once- Divorced Feb 25 1910 s/o William and Nettie Bryson Smith father resides in Pittsburg PA. occupation father Vice Pres. mother- housekeeper both born in Lancaster Co. PA
Consent by William T. Riggin 7 Sept 1915 , 1335 So. Wilton St. W. Phila.- daug. age 20 years.

Family Bible of Sarah Martha Riggin and Levin Merrill Morris

King James Version No publication date

Written in first dedication page:
This Bible was given to Martha Morris by her beloved husband
[Masonic Symbol] L. Merrill Morris in the year 1921, 533 S. Division St., Salisbury, Maryland

Written in second dedication page:
Presented to my wife Sarah Martha Morris by Levin Merrill Morris, 533 S Div St, Salisbury, Md.

Clippings from the Salisbury Advertiser

Newspaper articles and obituaries pasted in frontispiece and on first three pages:
frontispiece, page one, column one.
Millwork Owner, Merrill Morris, Dies
A funeral service for L. Merrill Morris, 67, owner of Morris Millwork Co. here, will be conducted at his late home at 533 South Division Street tomorrow at 2:30 p.m. by Rev. R. P. Edwards, pastor of the Cheriton, Va., Methodist Church. Burial will be in Parsons Cemetery.Morris, in ill health for about four years, died late Sunday in his home. He was the son of the late Thomas C. and Eliza C. Morris.He is survived by his wife, Mrs. S. Martha Morris; a daughter, Miss Dorothy C. Morris, and a brother, Upshur W. Morris, all of Salisbury.Friends may call at the Morris home tonight.[handwritten at bottom: a mistake he was 68 yrs died Sept 1 - 1946]

CARD OF THANKS
WE wish to thank relatives and friends for their expressions of sympathy and many kindnesses during the recent death of our husband and father. L. Merrill Morris. Also for floral tributes and use of cars.
Wife and daughter, Dorothy.

SURPRISE PARTY IS
GIVEN MERRILL MORRIS [handwritten in: 1941]
A surprise birthday party was given L. Merrill Morris on his 63rd birthday by Morris Millwork and Company employees last night. His brother, Robert Morris was master of ceremonies assisted by Chief William Chatham and James Chatham. Those present were: Levin Powelll, Edgar Purnell, Joseph Smith, Walter Timmons, Leonard Timmons, Chester Littleton and son, Ernest Smullen, Frank Jones, Zed Wells, Oscar Smith, and Fred Fooks, Mrs. Robert Morris and daughter Rebecca, Mrs. James Chatham and Mrs. Frank Jones.

DEATHS and FUNERALS
[handwritten in: died Sept. 20 - 1952]
Miss Mary C. Riggin
Miss Mary Catherine Riggin, 77, daughter of the late John W. and Martha Wimbrow Riggiin of Salisbury, died last night in her home, 637 S. Division St., after a prolonged illness.She is survived by two sisters, Mrs. Martha Morris and Mrs. Annie Godfrey, both of Salisbury; a brother, William T. Riggin of Philadelphia; and several nieces and nephews.Funeral arrangements are pending.

Service Schedule
Miss Mary C. Riggin. Tomorrow, 1 p.m. in the late home at 637 S. Division St., with Dr. R. P. Edwards of Richmond, Va., officiating. Burial, Parsons Cemetery. Friends call tonight [illegible]

frontispiece, page one, column two.
J. Edgar Harvey,Attorney.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS
This is to give notice that the subscribers has obtained from the Orphan's Court for Wicomico County, Maryland, letters of administration on the personal estate of L. MERRILL MORRIS late of said County, deceased. All persons having claims against the deceased are hereby warned to exhibit same with the vouchers thereof legally authenticated to the subscribers on before March 1st 1947 Or they may otherwise by be excluded from all benefit of said estate.All persons indebted to said estate are requested to make immediate payment.Given under my hand and seal this 9th day of September, 1946.
DOROTHY C. MORRIS, Administratrix.
533 So. Division St.,
Salisbury, Md.
Test: J. Asbury Holloway,
Register of Wills.Sept. 11-18-25, Oct. 2.

Active at 95
[photo of Leah Martha Wimbrow Riggin]
Although a recent birthday party anniversary closed her ninety-fifth year, Mrs. Martha Riggin of 521 South Division Street, a mother, grandmother, and great grandmother, continues her sewing and actively engages in other household activities. She quilts and crochets easily. She was widowed 25 years ago by the death of her husband, John Wesley Riggin.John Riggin and Will Riggin, Philadelphia, two of her six children, are twins. Nutter M. Riggin, another son, lives in Autobon, N.J., and three daughters, Miss Mary Riggin, Mrs. W. G. Godfrey, and Mrs. Merrill Morris are Salisburians. She has six grandchildren and four great grandchildren.

frontispiece, page one, column three.
Gas Kills Man Christmas Eve
Wife is Overcome After Finding Him
The death of John Wesley Riggin, 78, of 404 South Division St., on Christmas Eve was attributed to "accidental death by gas poisoning."When his wife, Mrs. Emma Sermon Riggin, 74, returned home shortly after 5 p.m. she found her husband lying unconscious on the kitchen floor. Two gas jets were open.After calling for help, she lost consciousness. The fire department ambulance took them to the hospital. Mr. Riggin, a retired carpenter, could not be revived.Mrs. Riggin was still in the hospital today and her condition was described as "good."
Reports of Dr. Charles T. Fisher, acting deputy medical examiner, and City Police, were that death was accidental.
Police said that Mr. Riggin had an attack of nausea in the kitchen and in falling struck to stove, turning on the two burners.Mr. Riggin was a member of the Bethesda Methodist Church. He was the son of the late John Wesley and Martha Wimbrow Riggin of Wicomico County. Besides his wife, he leaves three sisters, Mrs. Annie Godfrey, Miss Mary Riggin and Mrs. Martha Morris of Salisbury, and a twin brother, William T. Riggin of Philadelphia. Another brother, Nutter M. Riggin, lives in Autobon, N.J. Funeral arrangements have not been completed.

MRS. RIGGIN, ONE OF CITY'S OLDEST, DIES
Mrs. Martha Riggin, one of Salisbury's oldest citizens, active until about 18 months ago, died last night at the age of 97 at her home, 521 South Division St. Her husband was the late John Wesley Riggin and she is survived by their six children. Her sons and daughters are: William T. Riggin, Philadelphia; John W. Riggin, Salisbury; N. M. Riggin, Autobon, N.J.; Miss Mary Riggin, Mrs. L. Merrill Morris, and Mrs. Annie Godfrey, all of Salisbury. Mrs. Barclay [handwritten in: Blanche] Riggin of Philadelphia is a daughter-in-law.Five grandchildren who survive are: Mrs. Clyde Smith, Herman Riggin, Mrs. George Walker of Philadelphia, Miss Dorothy Morris of Salisbury and George Riggin of Audobon, N.J. Six great-grandchildren survive.
Funeral services will be held at her home at 3 o'clock Saturday afternoon with the Rev. Irvin Collins and the Rev. Mr. Holland officiating. Internment will be in Parsons Cemetery.

frontispiece, page two, column one.

Eloise Riggin, 18 year old daughter of Mr. And Mrs. John W. Riggin, South Division Street, died this morning at 6:30 o'clock, at the Peninsula General Hospital after an illness of six months. Death was attributed to heart trouble and to typhoid, from which Miss Riggin had been suffering for many weeks.Poor health caused Miss Riggin to leave Temple University, in Philadelphia, during the spring. She had been a student there not quite a year. During the previous year she attended Southern College in Petersburg, Va., but left there to take up work at Temple.She was well known in Salisbury, having spent most of her live here. Friends in all parts of the city will hear of her death with deepest grief. Funeral arrangements have not yet been made.

FUNERAL SERVICES
FOR MISS RIGGIN
Funeral services for Miss Eloise Riggin, who died Wednesday morning after a critical illness of many weeks, will be held tomorrow afternoon at 2 o'clock from Bethesda Methodist Protestant Church.The Rev. R. L. Shipley, D.D., of Newark, N.J., will officiate, assisted by the Rev. F. R. Holland. Internment will be in Parsons Cemetery.

John Wesley Riggin
Mr. John Wesley Riggin for many years one of the best know residents of Wicomico County, died at his home on South Division St., Jan 8, after a st [illegible] paralysis. He had been in failing health for some time up until Dec 27 and was able to walk, about, when he was stricken with paralysis and never regained consciousness. Deceased was 68 years of age and had been a member of the M. P. Church for more than 40 years. He was a good and kind husband and one of the most devoted fathers to his children by most every one who knew him he had been a hard worker and a good and honest man. He is survived by a widow and seven children, Messes Wm. T., Nutter and Chas. H. Riggin, of Phila., Mrs. Woodland Godfrey, of Cape Charles, Va., Mrs. Merrill Morris, Mr. John W. Riggin, and Miss Mary Riggin of this city.
Funeral services were held at his home Sunday afternoon conducted by Rev. Warner of the M. P. church and assisted by Rev. Martindale [illegible] took place in the family burial ground in Parsons Cemetery.

Nutter M. Riggin
AUDOBON, N.J. - Nutter M. Riggin, 78, formerly of Salisbury, died at his home here Saturday after a long illness.He is survived by his wife, Mrs. Irene Riggin; a daughter, Mrs. George Walker of Philadelphia, two grandchildren, Joan and George Walker, Jr.; one brother, William T. Riggin, Philadelphia and three sisters, Miss Mary Riggin, Mrs. Martha Morris, and Mrs. Annie Godfrey, all of Salisbury.Funeral will be held Wednesday, 2 p.m., in the Oaklynn Funeral Home. Internment will be in a local cemetery.

page three, column one.
ANNOUNCEMENTS
Card of Thanks
We wish to thank our friends, relatives and neighbors for cards, flowers and many acts of kindness during the recent illness and bereavement of our sister, Mary C. Riggin
The Riggin Family

Mrs. W. G. Godfrey
Mrs. Annie Riggin Godfrey, 71, died last night in Peninsula General Hospital after a long illness.Her husband was the late Woodland G. Godfrey. She was the daughter of the late John W. and Martha Wimbrow Riggin.
Mrs. Godfrey owned and operated a Texaco filling station on South Division St. She was a member of St. Andrew's Methodist Church.She is survived by a brother William T. Riggin of Philadelphia and a sister, Mrs. Martha Morris of Salisbury. Several nieces and nephews also survive.Funeral services will be held in the Hill and Johnson Funeral Home Wednesday at 2 p.m. with the Rev. Elmer L. Bennett, pastor of St. Andrew's Methodist Church, officiating. Internment will be in Parsons Cemetery.Friends may call at the funeral home tomorrow after 7:30 p.m.

William T. Riggin- (1958)
LANSDOWNE, Pa. - William T. Riggin, 86, died yesterday in the University of Pennsylvania Hospital where he had been a patient for four weeks. He was [t]he husband of the late Mrs. Martha Bussells Riggin and son of the late John W. and Martha L. Riggin of Salisbury. He is survived by a daughter, Mrs. Beulah Smith, a son, Herman Riggin, of Philadelphia three grandchildren and a sister, Mrs. Martha Morris of Salisbury. Funeral services will be held Monday at 2 p.m. in the Oliver Blair Funeral Home in Philadelphia. Internment will be in the Fernwood Cemetery in Lansdowne, Pa.

page three, column two.
Mrs. W. T. Riggin
[handwritten in: ~~~ Feb. 17 - 1962]
Word has been received here of the death yesterday in her home in Philadelphia of Mrs. Martha Riggin, 86, wife of W. T. Riggin, both former Salisburians.Mrs. Riggin was a daughter of the late Gillis and Charlotte Bussells of Salisbury.Surviving are her husband and two children, Mrs. Clyde Smith and Herman Riggin, all of Philadelphia.
A funeral service will be held Monday at 2 p.m. from the Oliver Blair Funeral Home in Philadelphia. Burial will be in Fernwood Cemetery in East Landsdowne, Pa.

Notice To Creditors
Harvey & Cropper Attorneys
This is to give notice that the subscribers has obtained from the Orphan's Court for Wicomico County, Maryland, letters of testamentary on the personal estate of ANNIE M. GODFREY late of said County, deceased. All persons having claims against the deceased are hereby warned to exhibit same with the vouchers thereof legally authenticated to the subscribers on before June 1st 1958 Or they may otherwise by be excluded from all benefit of said estate.All persons indebted to said estate are requested to make immediate payment.Given under my hand and seal this 8th day of November, 1957.
DOROTHY C. MORRIS, Executrix.
717 So. Division St.,
Salisbury, Md.

page three, column three.
Mrs. L. M. Morris
Mrs. Martha Riggin Morris, 75, wife of the late L. Merrill Morris of Salisbury, former owner of the Morris Millwork Co., and daughter of the late John w. and Martha Wimbrow Riggin, died late Saturday in her home, 717 S. Division St., after an illness of several months.After her husband's death several years ago, Mrs. Morris operated the business in partnership with her daughter, Miss Dorothy C. Morris, who, with several nieces and nephews, survives her.Funeral services will be conducted at 2 p.m. tomorrow from the Hill and Johnson Funeral Home by the Rev. Dr. Howard M. Amoss, pastor of the Bethesda Methodist Church. Burial will be in Parsons Cemetery.Friends may call tonight from 7:30 p.m. to 9 at the funeral home.

page four, column one.
J. EDGAR HARVEY
Attorney at Law Salisbury, Md.
Notice To Creditors
This is to give notice that the subscribers has obtained from the Orphan's Court for Wicomico County, Maryland, letters of Testamentary on the personal estate of SARAH M. MORRIS, also known as S. Martha Morris,
late of said County, deceased. All persons having claims against the deceased are hereby warned to exhibit same with the vouchers thereof legally authenticated to the subscribers on before May 1st 1960 Or they may otherwise by be excluded from all benefit of said estate. All persons indebted to said estate are requested to make immediate payment. Given under my hand and seal this 7th day of October, A.D. 1959.
DOROTHY C. MORRIS, Executrix.
717 So. Division St.,
Salisbury, Md.
Test: J. Asbury Holloway,
Register of Wills.
10-10, 10-17, 10-24, 10-31

Mrs. John Riggin
Mrs. Emma Riggin, 85, died yesterday in the John B. Parsons Home for the Aged after a long illness.
Born in Worcester County, she was the daughter of the late John W. and Sarah Sturgis Sirman. She was the wife of the late John W. Riggin of Salisbury.
She is survived by four sisters, Mrs. Leander Shockley of Hebron, Mrs. Carl Twilley of Salisbury, Mrs. Kinser Dryden of Baltimore, and [Mrs.] Lawrence Sistane in Florida.
Funeral services will be held tomorrow from the home. The Rev. Howard A. Amoss, pastor of Bethesda Methodist Church, will officiate. Internment will be in Parsons Cemetery. Friends may call at the home tomorrow from 1 to 2 p.m.

At end of Old Testament:
This certifies that Levin Merrill Morris of Chester, Pa. And Sarah Martha Riggin
of Salisbury, Md.Were united by me in the bonds of Holy Matrimony At Salisbury, Md. On the Twenty fourth day of April in the year of our Lord 1907
In the Presence of Upshur Morris Annie M. Riggin
Signed Rev. Wilson F. Beale of the Presbyterian Church Salisbury, Md.

Next page: Marriages
Levin Merrill Morris and
Sarah Martha Riggin was married
in the year of our Lord April 24th
Nine-teen Hundred & seven - 1907

Next page: Births
Dorothy Catherine Morris was born
in the year of our Lord Sept 6th
Nineteen Hundred & eight - 1908

Next Page: Deaths
Levin Merrill Morris departed from this
life September 1st 1946

Sarah Martha Morris departed from
this life September 19, 1959

 

backpiece, inner, column two.
NORMAL SCHOOL
WILL RECEIVE
INDOOR FLAG
Junior Order Of United Ameri-
can Mechanics To Present
Auditorium Gift
PLAN CEREMONIALS
FOR FEBRUARY 22
Program Will Be Private Affair,
Attended By State Councillor
And Invited Guests
Preparations are being made by the Wicomico County Association of the Junior Order of United American Mechanics for elaborate ceremonials which will accompany the presentation of a handsome flag and pedestal to the Salisbury State Normal School on February 22.
The flag will be placed in the main auditorium of the building. It will be made of silk, 5 x 8 feet in size and raised from a stalwart base of oak.
According to tentative plans the Association will assemble at the Court house in the city and march in a body to the school. The services will be held in doors at 7:30 in the evening and will be attended only by members of the Order and visiting Juniors from adjoining counties, and especially invited guests.
The State Councillor will probably be present for the occasion and there will be prominent speakers from out of town. The program has not been announced, as yet.
The Wicomico Association is composed of 5 local lodges. They are Surprise Council, of Salisbury, Parsonsburg Council, of Parsonsburg, Wicomico Council, of Pittsville, Stonewall Council, of Powellville, and White Haven Council, White Haven. There are about 700 members in all.
Surprise Council has a membership of 160, including Dr. R. L. Shipley among the number.
It has been the custom of the Junior Order to present all newly erected public schools and churches with a flag.
The Wicomico Association was organized over a year ago and has been steadily growing ever since. The officers elected elected at a session held here last week are, president, A. Percy White, 1st vice president, L. Merrill Morris, 2nd vice president, George Causey, recording secretary, Joshua White, treasurer, Walter Farlow.
A modern orphans home at Tiffin, Ohio, is being conducted by the Junior Order of American Mechanics and ground has been broken a larger home in South Carolina.

backpiece, inner, column three.
AUTO AND MOTORCYCLE
COLLIDE IN SALISBURY
Accident Happened Sunday Afternoon
At "Five Points."
TWO MEN ON MOTORCYCLE SE-
VERELY INJURED.
James Chatham Had Ankle Broken
And Foot Mashed - Merrill Morris
Sustained A Broken Wrist And Ser-
ious Internal Injuries
In a collision between an automobile and a motorcycle at "Five Points" this city, late Sunday afternoon, two men were seriously and painfully injured and the machines were badly damaged.
The automobile driven by H. C. Hudson, was proceeding up North Division street, at a very moderate speed, it is said by onlookers, when at the intersection of North Division and East Church streets, his car was crashed into by a motorcycle on which was ridding Merrill Morris and James Chatham, who were returning from a trip to Ocean City.
It is stated that the drivers of both machines had sounded the usual alarms for corners, and that Hudson had his car in second gear, showing that he was proceeding at a moderate rate of speed. The force of the collision, however, was great, as the big car passed partly over the motorcycle and two riders and had to be jacked up to release the two men. It was soon found that Morris and Chatham were seriously injured, and that Morris was unconscious. He had sustained a broken wrist and internal injuries. Chatham sustained a fractured ankle and badly crushed foot. An ambulance was speedily summoned and the two men hurried tot the hospital. It was a long time before Morris regained consciousness. Both men are quite seriously injured and it will be several weeks, perhaps, before they fully recover.
The cause of the accident seems to be hard to fix, as conflicting stories are told by persons who saw the accident.

backpiece, outer, column one.
Death of a Young Man
The quotation, "In the midst of life we are in death," seems never so true as when some dear friend , in the bloom and vigor of life, is stricken down and dies.
The grim monster is no respector of persons. He enters the peasant's hovel and the monarch's palace indiscriminately -- Every second records a death.
Homes are darkened and hearts are saddened, and yet the world moves on in its busy bustling way, as if a human was nothing but a drop in the Ocean of life that is lost amid its vast surroundings.
At his home in Nutter's two weeks ago last Tuesday, Mr. Levin Riggins, a young man in the morning of life, full of expectations and possibilities, was stricken down with typhoid fever, which worked with such rapidity the young man lived but a few days.
Mr. Riggin was a member of the Methodist Protestant Church, and for several years he was a leader in the Sunday school at Union M. P. Church. His remains were interred in the family burying ground.
The death of Mr. Riggin has cast a gloom over his many friends in this vicinity. He will be remembered as a kind and loving friend and a consistent christian gentleman. We extend our heart-felt sympathy to the family and friends of our departed friend in their deep sorrow, praying that they may be sustained by the presence of the Almighty Friend, who has said, "When thou passeth through the rivers they shall not overflow thee," and who likewise declared that "all things work together for him that love God.
A FRIEND

backpiece, outer, column two.
Obituary
It is with a sad heart that I send you the intelligence of the death of James L. Riggin of Long Ridge, who died on the 18th inst. For two weeks before his death he had suffered with the typhoid fever. He bore his affliction with christian fortitude, ever ready to receive the summons from his master, he patiently awaited the end. He was a licensed exhorter of the Methodist Protestant Church and delighted in fulfilling the duties which his position demanded of him.
He leaves father, mother, three sisters and four brothers to mourn his loss. They are comforted by the assurance that their loss is his gain.
A FRIEND

Wicomico Co. Deeds

Louis Bussells from Wm. T. Riggin et al Liber 28 f 106 1/5/1900

Wicomico County Deeds

Salisbury Advertiser April 14, 1900

"died last Saturday Gillis Bussells survived by his wife and three daughters Mary Shockley of Snow Hill, Martha Riggin of Philadelphia, and Lillie Satterfield of Baltimore- two sons Marion and Louis Bussells- in 1895 elected Judge of the Orphans Court Wicomico County, member of the Methodist Episcopal Church"  

Worcester County Deeds courtesy of http://www.ocmuseum.org/genealogy/

Andasiah Riggin Will Date: Probate Date:
Riggin, Andasiah 18 October 1817w. 3 April 1818p. Wit; Zadock Sturgis, Thomas R. E.Spicer. Then cameThomas Cropper. MH 300. Very bad microfilm, unreadable. See original will.
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Angelo Atkinson Will Date: Probate Date:
31 August 1787w. 11 March 1789p. To my wife Comfort Atkinson (nee Garman/Jarman), the EX. To daughters Sarah Atkinson, Betsy Atkinson, Anne Atkinson To sons Joshua Atkinson, Angelo Atkinson, George Atkinson, Isaac Atkinson, Benjamin Atkinson. Wit; Thomas Blake, James Atkinson, Darby Riggin. JW13 206.
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Ann Riggin Will Date: Probate Date:
Riggin, Ann 3 Oct 1796w. 9 Dec 1796p. To sons John Riggin, Pierce Riggin. To Naomi Dryden, Thomas Lotia, unreadable?, Ann Starling. To daughters Suffiah/Sophia Riggin, Leah Riggin. Wit; James Willis, James Riggin, David McDaniel. 1790-99, 278.
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Benjamin Farlow Will Date: Probate Date:
Farlow ,Benjamin 26 Nov 1821w. 4 Jan 1822p.To wife, not named,1/3rd of the estate. To sons David Farlow, Billy P. Farlow, the Ex., George Farlow, the EX. To my three daughters Sarah Parsons, Elizabeth Painter, Nancy Farlow. Wit; Billy Fooks,Tamer Fooks, William R.Riggin. MH 508.
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Benton Harris Will Date: Probate Date:
Harris, Benton (Captain) 5 Feb 1777w. 1 Sept. 1777p. To my wife Betty Harris, her 1/3rds, and the EX. (she was the daughter of Mary Martin 1174w.) To my friend William Whittington’s son William Whittington who was born after his father's death, lands SWAMP TIMBER GROVE 700 acres. To my sisters, not named. To John Rousby Whittington, the son of William Whittington the plantation, 200 acres, if no issue to my sisters. And two tracts bought of Benjamin Dennis, east off the Pocomoke River adjacent to Bowhouse Landing. To John Riggin, my sister’s son, land and plantation adjacent to where my father lived HALRRISON’S ADVENTURE 400 acres. To Benton Riggin. The tract called COLRAIN that I bought of Richard Conner is to be sold. To my niece Esther Hall and her chi1dren. To Nancy Martin daughter of Captain John Martin. To William Whittington son of my friend William Whittington, son-in-law. Major Samuel Handy and William Handy are to assist my wife. Wit; Mathew Hopkins, John Selby Martin, John Irving. 1769-1783, 351.
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Charles Fookes/Fooks Will Date: Probate Date:
Fookes/Fooks, Charles 7 Feb 1819w. 12 Apr 1822p. To son—Jesse Fookes, lands on road from Salisbury to Snow Hill, tract CONCLUSION, part MILLS SUPPLY, CONFERMATION. Jesse Fookes is under 21 years of age. To son—Jonathan N. Fookes, part of aforesaid. To daughter Polly Fookes part of CONFIRMATION DEPOSED, part of FACKABUS, etc. To daughter Leah Fookes, part of FACKABUS, l01 acres part of VEXATION l15 acres. to daughter Sally Fookes, part of tract FOURT NECK, etc. She is under 16 years of age. To daughter Nancy Fookes, lands. To wife Nancy Fookes, exec. Friend, Patrick Causey, exec. Wit; Nancy Ennis, Lemuel H. Riggin, Shepherd Johnson. MH 537.
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Charles Riggin Will Date: Probate Date:
Riggin, Charles, planter, 8 Feb 1774w. 4 Apr 1774p. To eight (8) of my children—Joshua Riggin, Betty Moor/Moore, Sarah Worilaw, James Riggin, Solomon Riggin, Rebecca Johnson, William Riggin, Teague Riggin. To grand-daughter Priscilla Riggin. To daughter Grace Ottwell. My son-in-law William Ottwell, the EX. Wit; Peter Dolbee/Dolby, William Johnson, Josephus Johnson. 1769-1783, 264.
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Cornelius Riggen/Riggin/Reggin Will Date: Probate Date:
Cornelius Riggen/Reggin 27 March 1769w. 3 March 1769p. Wife Rachel EX. Daughter Leah Riggen/Riggin –all land and moveable estate during her widowhood. Daughter Edde Riggin–all land called Riggen's Addition with 107 acres and dwelling plantation. Wit; Merrill Maddox, Lazarus Maddox and Seftar Maddox.
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Darby Riggin Will Date: Probate Date:
7 March 1785w. 13 February 1789p. To my wife Hannah Riggin, the EX. To my daughters Comfort Atkinson, Anna Randall, Grace Riggin, Esther Deverex. To grandson John Deverex. To son-in-law John Deverex. To son Levin Riggin. Wit; Joshua Townsend, Zadock Selby, Major Townsend. JW13 223
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Darby Riggon/Riggin Will Date: 1/20/1743 Probate Date: 3/4/1744
Darby Riggon/Riggin 23 January 1743w. 7 March 1743/4 To wife Mary, plantation and dwelling called Shockley's Purchase, 250 acres. To son Darby, plantation and dwelling called Shockley's Purchase at death or re-marriage of his mother. To son Pierce, land should son Darby leave no heirs. To son Teague, land should son Darby leave no heirs. To son Ambrose, personalty. To daughter Mary, wife of Southy Newton, personalty and livestock. To daughter Leah Riggon/Riggin, 5 pounds sterling at age 21. To all my children, Pierce, Teague, Sarah, Elizabeth, and Leah, all remaining property after payment of debts to be equally split. Wife Mary and son Pierce, EX. Wit; John Lane, John Sheldon, John Smith, and John (last name unreadable.Wouing?). On 7 March 1743/4, Mary (widow of Darby) quits her thirds and stands by the will.
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Elizabeth Morris Will Date: Probate Date:
Elizabeth Morris 31 March 1810w. 18 March 1815p. To son John Elsey Hayward, track called Hayward's Lott (740acres) in Somerset County devised me by my son Thomas Hayward. My relation George Hayward, EX, son of George (last named not given). Wit; Nancy Evans, James Nairne, Jesse Riggin (moved to Western Country by 1815). JBR 87.
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Francis Otwell Will Date: Probate Date:
Otwell, Francis 31 May 1775w. 16 Sep 1775p. To my mother Rachel Otwell, part of the tract called RIGGIN’S ADDITION, l00 acres, and after her death to John Puzy/Pusey. Wit; Margaret Denston, Rebecca Denston, Scarbrough Otwell. 1769-1783, 296.
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George Schoolfield Will Date: Probate Date:
Schoolfield, George 18 Dec 1797w. 12 Jan 1798p. To wife Sarah Schoolfield, 1/3 of estate, the EX. To son Isaac Bozman Schoolfield, the plantation called PREVENTION, grove I have bond for of William Selby, 252 acres in the Mattapony 100, EX. To daughters Catherine Schoolfield and Ziporah Schoolfield. To—Joshua Silverhouse??, part of track called REHOBETH in Somerset County bonded for 712 pounds. Wit; Joshua Sturgis, Jessee Riggin, William Selby.
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Hannah Riggen/Riggin Will Date: Probate Date:
Riggen/Riggin, Hannah 10 October 1794w. 13 Max 1795p. To grandson Angelo Atkinson, the desk in possession of Levin Riggin. To grandsons Grederick Randall, Benjamin Atkinson. To grandson George Atkinson, the bed in the possession of William and Comfort Handy. To grand-daughters Betsy Randall, Molly Randall, Henrietta Randall, Betsy Atkinson, Anna Atkinson. To son Levin Riggen. To daughter Ann Randall. My friends Benjamin Dennis and William Parker, trustees. Wit; Henry Parker Jr., Zadock Sturgis. 1790-99, 189.
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Hannah Taylor Will Date: Probate Date:
TAYLOR, Hannah 30 March 1826 w. 20 February 1835 p. To my daughter Susanna Taylor. Witness: John O. Selby and Noah Riggin. f. 39 LP
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Hannah Carey Will Date: Probate Date:
CAREY, Hannah 9 September 1831 w. 16 November 1831 p. To my sons, William, George and Thomas. To my daughters, Eleanor Carey and Leah Taylor. Witness: James D. Hayman and Nancy Riggin/Riggen. f. 495 MH.
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Henry Johnson Will Date: Probate Date:
Johnson, Henry 7 Feb 1773w. 24 Mar 1773p. To my mother Christian Johnson, l00 acres called HOGG RANGE in Sussex County, Delaware, and the EX. after her death the to my Brother James Johnson. To my brother Benjamin Johnson . Wit; Peter Dolby, Charles Riggin. 1769-1783, 178.
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Henry Toadvine Will Date: Probate Date:
Toadvine, Henry 29 Jan 1782w. 19 Feb 1782p. To my wife Mary,50 acres part of TOADVINE'S GOOD LUCK, 70 acres part of two tracks, and also the EX. To my son William Toadvine, part of the aforesaid, 100 acres. To son Henry Toadvine, 44 acres called TOADVINE'S HARD LUCK, 100 acres where I now dwell, and three acres adjacent to the saw mill. To son Purnell Toadvine, the saw mill and three acres, and 4 acres called STRIFE which I bought of Jesse Fooks, and the tract LONG ACRE, land bought of Jonathan Riggin. To son John Toadvine the balance of lands. To sons Isaac Toadvine, who is under twenty years of age, and James Toadvine who is also under twenty years of age. To my daughter Nancy Toadvine. To my son Houten(Outten)Toadvine, the field called THE SAVANNAH containing 80 acres. Wit; William Winder Jr., James Roach, Thomas Fooks, Levin Carey. 1769-1783, 491.
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Isaac Pusey Will Date: Probate Date:
PUSEY, Isaac 11 Sep 1792w. 26 Oct 1792p. To son Levy/Levi Pusey, plantation called BACON HILL 130 acres. To daughter Siner Pusey. To son Isaac Pusey. To brother John Pusey, EX. Wit; John Pusey, John Riggen/Riggin, James Wonnell. 1790-99, 96.
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Jacob Riggin Will Date: Probate Date:
RIGGIN, Jacob 7 October 1844 w. 27 June 1845 p. To my children, Olevia/Olivia C. Wainright, Alfred B. Riggin and Rebecca Francis Riggin. To my son-in-law, Edward Wainright, the EX. Witness: Benjamin H. Gordy, Levin Hitch and Isaac Leonard. f.291 LPS.
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James Tilghman Will Date: Probate Date:
James Tilghman 16 February 1816w. 27 May 1816p. To daughter Mary Ann, house and lot where I now live. To son James M. Tilghman (under 13). To wife Nancy Tilghman (pregnant), EX. Mentioned brother Caleb Tilghman. To sisters children. If William K. Tilghman die without issue to wife's brother Levin Cottingham, EX. Lands adjacent William Beauchamp to be sold. Wit; Edward Stevenson, Jacob Riggin and David Long. JBR 192.
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James Riggin Will Date: Probate Date:
Riggin, James 2 Jan 1773w. 9 Jul 1773p. To my son Cannon Riggin, part of land on the northside of Mill Branch. To my son Teague Riggin. To my daughters Rebecca Riggin, Ann Riggin and Grace Riggin. To son James Riggin, the land where I live on the south side of Mill Branch. To my wife Elizabeth Riggin, the EX. Wit; William Stephen, Soloman Townsend, William Bevans. 1769-1783, 205.
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James Townsend Will Date: Probate Date:
Townsend, James 1 Jun 1773w. 14 Jul 1773p. To wife Esther Townsend, tracts called TOWNSEND’S LOOK IN, TOWNSEND’S DISCOVERY, and to her daughter named Ann Warrick/Warwick. Wit; George Baley, John Riggin, Nathan Anderson. 1769-1783, 221.
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James Riggen/Riggin Will Date: Probate Date:
RIGGEN, James 1 February 1826 w. 13 December 1831 p. To my wife, Mary Riggen. To my children, Sally Truitt, Joseph Riggin, Pusey Riggen, Betsy Ennis, Levicy Wilson, James Riggin and Sarey Riggen. To my youngest son, James Riggen, plantation where I live, BIRS, 70 acres. Witness: Thomas Toadvine, William Taylor and John Taylor. f. 501-502 MH.
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James Townsend Will Date: 11/24/1736 Probate Date: 4/29/1744
James Townsend 29 November 1736w. 2 May 1744p. Of Somerset County. To son Major Townsend, dwelling and plantation, 125 acres, called Grooms and Chance and 400 acres called Freemans Discovery. To brothers and sisters, Daniel Townsend, Townsend, Mary Riggon/Riggin, Elizabeth Townsend, Rebecca Winright/Wainwright, Sarah Porter, Rachel Hopkins, and Anne Riggin/Riggon., the above property is my son, Major, should died before his 21st birthday. To mother, Elizabeth Townsend, land and personalty and the care of my son Major. Teague Riggon/Riggin, EX. Wit; Francis Porter, John Scott.
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John Riggin Will Date: Probate Date:
Riggin, John Sr. 24 Dec 1810w. 11 Jan 1811p. To son London Riggin, lands. Isaac Pusey to be paid his due. To grandson Killem Riggin. To step—sons Parker Pusey, Lazarus Maddux/Maddox. To sons John Riggin and Hambleton Riggin. The lands in Somerset County to be sold by son London Riggin and Pierce Riggin, the execs. Wit; James Riggin, Charles Farrow,John F.Atkinson. 1806-13, 238.
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John Pusey Will Date: Probate Date:
Pusey, John 15 October 1766w. 23 February 1774p. To my wife Rebecca Pusey, the plantation, then after her death to my Son Isaac Pusey, the tract where I live, 25 acres near the back of Stephen Wainright’s plantation. My wife is also the Ex. To my sons Lankford Pusey, Benjamin Pusey, David Pusey. To my son William Pusey, the tract of land where he lives. To son George Pusey, 50 acres. To daughter Mary Pusey. Wit; Cornelius Ward, who is now deceased, James Atkinson, Teague Riggin. 1769-1783, 259.
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Joshua Trader Will Date: Probate Date:
TRADER, Joshua 4 December 1831 w. 31 January 1843 p. To my son, William B. Trader. To my daughters, Eliza Dennis, Charlotte Winder Parker and Sarah Jane Trader. To my sons, Rufus King Trader, Thomas Baily Trader, Levin White Trader, and John Asbury Eikel Trader. Witness: Levin P. White, George W. Riggin and William Rownd. f.225-226 LPS.
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Joshua Morris Will Date: Probate Date:
MORRIS, Joshua 23 Jan 1819w. 2 Mar 1819p. T my wife— Amelia Morris, land on the west side of road dividing Somerset County and Worcester County.Co. 1/3rd MORRIS S CONCLUSION; 1.3 tract called SUMMER FIELD, ROACH'S CONCLUSION, EX. To son Joshua Morris, lands where I live(desc.) part of FRIEND'S GOODWILL bought of Charles Haynan, EX. To son John Morris, mill bought of Ward, Boston & Gunby. Lot bought of PierceRiggin. Lots MAIDENS CHOICE 65a. , MILLS SECURITY 10 acres, GOOD LUCK 37a., POOR LOT l7a., ADDITION TO MORRIS S MILL SUPPLE 600a., SECOND ADDITION TO MILLS SUPPLY 300 acres etc. To son Jepthy Morris, land bought of Stephen Roach, part of SUMMER FIELDS. 21a. ROACH'S CONCLUSION 4O and one-half acres at Fork Town (desc). To daughter Mary Gunby, mill & land purchased of Purnell Toadvine. Lot that Jack Morris laid off. To daughter Priscilla Morris, tract called PARTNERSHIP 150acres, HAYMAN'S ADDITION 15 acres, ADDITION 12 acres, PUZZLE CAP 30 acres. To grand-daughter Amelia Gunby, part of tract KERRING QUARTER 50 acres, EBENEZER'S LUCK 20 acres, SMULLEN'S CONTENT 60 acres, FOXES HOLE 7 acres. To grand children William Gunby, Sarah Gunby, Mary A. Gunby, James Gunby, each one-quarter acre adjacent to Jephty Morris lott out of Morris CONCLUSION, description. To granddaughter Elizabeth Norris one-half acres of same adjacent to Joshua Norris Lot. To Stephen Taylor, lot at Fork Town. To grandson Joshua Morris, tract called MORRIS S CONCLUSION, balance of to son Isaac Norris, part of estate that I gave to his daughter Elizabeth until she is of age. Wit; John Bayne, William H. Lankford, Nelly Mitchell. MH 358
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Levin Carey Will Date: Probate Date:
CAREY, Levin 21 Jan 1791w. 11 Feb 1791p. To wife Lidy/Lidia Carey, land, the exec. To son Thomas Carey. Wit; Daniel Dikes, Rhoda Raign/Riggin, Thomas Fooks. 1790-99, 7.
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Levin Townsend Will Date: Probate Date:
Townsend, Levin 24 Sep 1800w. 25 Nov 1800p. To my son, who is not yet christened, to be named Teagle Townsend. To receive lots in Snow Hill, lots #9 and #10, at age 21 years of age. To my wife Ann Townsend, the lot where I live, and the EX. To daughters Nancy Townsend and Sarah Townsend. John Cottingham, Esquire, the EX. Wit; Silvanus Uriah Roberts, John Riggen/Riggin, John Dorman. The bonds by Ann Townsend, Captain Thomas R. Handy, James Adkinson. Cottingham rejects administration of will. JBR 1799-1803. Page 166.
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Littleton Robins, Sr. Will Date: Probate Date:
Littleton Robins, Sr. 13 November 1815w. 25 June 1816p. To nephew James Robins, land bought off John Purnell and lands given to me by me sister Windings (?). To Littleton R. Purnell, lands bought off William Brittingham, Purnell Brittingham, Lambert Wright, John White and Samuel Ennis. To Dr. Thomas R. Spence, land deeded off Captain David Watts, includes Buzzard Island. To sister Lanty (Arlanta) Purnell, land bought off John Ayres, etc. To Lemuel Purnell, land in Somerset County bought off George Miles and William King; stock in Bank of Somerset after death of Miss Mary Spence; lot in Snow Hill bought off Joshua Townsend; and farm formerly owned by James Givans' heirs. To Miss Mary (?) Gillis, all land bought off Levin Fountain; lands bought off William Hudson and Lemuel Hudson; and lands bought of Levin Riggin. To Thomas Littleton Fountain, son of Levin Fountain and his wife Anda Fountain, one-half of land bought off Thomas Fountain in Somerset County. To three youngest children or survivors of Levin Fountain and Anda Fountain, balance of Thomas Fountain's land not already given. James B. Robins and Dr. Thomas R. Spence, trustees and executors. To John M. B. Robins, son of Littleton Robins, lands. To Edward Robins, lands from sister and lands bought off John Blizzard, he is to transfer title of Coys Folly to Dr. George M. Purnell. To Thomas Robins, son of Edward Robins. To Molly Purnell, William Purnell, Thomas Purnell, and Mary Purnell, children of Elisha Purnell. To John G. Purnell and Chessed Purnell, sons of George Purnell. To Sally Purnell and John R. Purnell, children of Dr. John Purnell. To Miss Mary Spence, all land I possess until death. To Martha Ennis, widow of Stephen Ennis. To three children of Littleton Robins, John Robins, James Robins and Mary S. Robins. To Mary Fassitt, wife of Zadock (?) Fassitt. To John Robins, Ann Maria Robins, Margaret Robins, Elinor Robins, Elizabeth Robins, children of James R. (B.) Robins. To son John R. Gillis, son of Joseph Gillis. To James Robins, Mary Robins and John Robins, children of Littleton Robins. To children of George Purnell, Lemuel Purnell, John Purnell, Chessed Purnell and Catherine Purnell, mentioned, debt of Eli Collins. Wit; John Bishop, James Townsend, Barsheba Brown and Nicey Tarr. JBR 203.
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Major Townsend Will Date: Probate Date:
Townsend, Major 2 Nov 1794w. 5 Dec 1794p. To wife Sarah Townsend. To son James Townsend, land DUMFREES bought of Joshua Townsend, and 20 acres HALL’S DISCOVERY. To son Luke Townsend, lots in Snow Hill, bond of Zadoc Selby, Sr. and Mary Sturgis for conveyance of tract and lot #11. To daughters Eleanor Merrill, Elizabeth Townsend. To son John Atkinson Townsend, tract HALL’S DISCOVERY, ENLARGED, part of a tract ROCHESTER bought of Benjamin Purnell. To wife Leah Townsend, the EX. To son Joshua Townsend. Wit; Major White, Josiah Brattan, Levin Riggen/Riggin. 1790-99, 180
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Mary Riggin Will Date: Probate Date:
RIGGIN, Mary 15 May 1832 w. 6 June 1833 p. To my daughter, Leviza Wilson, EX. To my granddaughter, Mary E. Melson. To my great granddaughter, Greacy A. Melson. To my grandson, Jobe Wilson. Witness: Levin Melson and Benjamin Vincent.f. 561 MH.
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Mary Dukes Will Date: Probate Date:
Dukes,Mary 18 Jan 1822w. 22 Feb 1822p. To son Henry Jackson, real estate in Somerset Co. To daughter Sally Boston. Wit; John N. Bowland, John F. Atkinson, Loudy Riggin. MH 526.
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Mary Ann Robins Will Date: Probate Date:
ROBINS, Mary Ann, widow of Bowdin Robins 4 Oct 1788w. 24 Feb 1791p. To Henry Ackworth of Somerset County, Maryland. To Walter Smith, the family bible, and the exec. To Marianna Andrews wife of John Andrews. To Caty Riggin wife of Darby Riggin. To Robert Schoolfield and John Schoolfield. To M (unreadable) wife of Ishmael Andrews. Wit; John Custis Handy, Peter Chaille Jr. 1790-99, 12.
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Nehemiah Hayman Will Date: Probate Date:
Hayman, Nehemiah. The administration of the estate refused by his widow Tabitha Hayman and brother John Hayman Sr., but they desire that Stephen Davis administer it. 11 June 1799. Test; John Cathell, Cornelius Riggin Hayman on 28 Jun 1799. Robert Nairne made oath he believes Nehemiah Hayman has been dead 20 days. Bonds—Stephen Davis, John I. Purnell, Robert Nairne. 1799-1803, 20.
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Noah Riggin Will Date: Probate Date:
Noah Riggin 22 July 1807w. 13 December 1811p. To my wife Andasiah Riggin, the EX. To my daughter Polly Riggin. Wit; James Dennis, Thomas Jackson. 1806-13, 305.
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Peter Smullen/Smulling Will Date: Probate Date:
Peter Smulling/Smullen 14 October 1814w. 11 November 1814p. Wife Sally (may be pregnant). Children Mariah Smulling, William Quinton (Smulling?) and Edward James Smulling. Father-in-law William Fooks, EX. Wit; John Stevens, Ephraim Smullin and Levy Riggin. JBR 67.
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Pierce Riggin Will Date: Probate Date:
Riggin, Pierce 8 Mar 1773w. 20 Apr 1773p. To my wife Anney Riggin, the EX., and the plantation, after her death to my son John Riggin, the tract 143 acres called WHAT YOU WILL. To my son Darby Riggin, 50 acres called RIGGIN’S DELIGHT. To daughters Leah Riggin, Naomi Riggin, Priscilla Riggin, Anney Riggin, Sophia Riggin. To son Pierce Riggin. Wit; Joseph Esham, James Riggin, James Wonnell. 1769-1783, 197.
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Pierce Riggin Will Date: Probate Date:
Riggin, Pierce 8 Mar1773w. 20 Apr 1773p. To my wife Anney Riggin, the EX., and the plantation, after her death to my son John Riggin, the tract 143 acres called WHAT YOU WILL. To my son Darby Riggin, 50 acres called RIGGIN’S DELIGHT. To daughters Leah Riggin, Naomi Riggin, Priscilla Riggin, Anney Riggin, Sophia Riggin. To son Pierce Riggin. Wit; Joseph Esham, James Riggin, James Wonnell. 1769-1783, 197.
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Samuel Adams Will Date: Probate Date:
Adams,Samuel 21 Sep 1772 3 Nov 1772 To my sons—Samue Adamsl and John Adams,the tract called LASTWOOD 234 acres. To daughters Leah Adams and Christana Adams. To my wife Rebecca Adams. To my brother—William Adams,the EX. Wit; Peter Dalby/Dolby, Charles Riggin, John Worrilow. 1769-1783, 82.
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Susannah Hayman Dikes Low/Lowe Will Date: Probate Date:
LOW/Lowe, Susannah, originally Susannah D. Hayman 6 February 1850w. – 12 March 1850 p. To my daughter, Nancy Tilman/Tilghman Dikes. To my eldest son, Thomas Dikes. To my youngest sons, Stephen J.(Dikes) and William H. Dikes, lands that fell to me by death of Uncle Charles Hayman. Witness: Joseph W. Riggin, John Lewis and John F. Collins. f.421 LPS.
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Thomas Davis, Jr. Will Date: Probate Date:
Thomas Davis, Jr. 29 April 1805w. 4 June 1805p. To wife Scarborough Davis, the EX., and a track of land adjoining John Massey. To sons Thomas Davis and William Drummond Davis, the lands. To son Henry Davis EX., the land bought off William Ross that belonged to Noah Riggin. To daughter Peggy Davis. Widow renounces the EX to son Henry Davis. Bonds, William Holland. William Melvin Sr., Wit; John Tyndal and Sophia Nelson. JBR 227.
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Thomas Atkinson Will Date: Probate Date:
Thomas Atkinson 3 February 1802w. 3 December 1802p. To son John Fountain Atkinson , the EX., and land and mills. Daughters Sarah Fountain Fleming, Mary Atkinson and Peggy Atkinson. To wife Mary Atkinson–dower. Polly Schoolfield and Sarah Fleming WIT. John Riggin, Absalom Townsend and Milbey Townsend WIT. Administrator bonds–1 January 1803, John F. Atkinson, James Atkinson and Milby Atkinson. JBR 2.
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William Fookes Will Date: Probate Date:
FOOKES, William 7 October 1829 w. 22 February 1833 p. To my daughter, Sally Smulling, tract. To my grandsons, William Smulling and James Smulling. To my daughter, Delila, 100 acres, ADDITION TO HOGG QUARTER (description). To my son, Daniel Fookes, tract, LITTLE WORTH. To my daughter, Mary, balance of ADDITION TO HOG QUARTER. To my son, William Fookes, lands where I live (description) FOOKES LOTT adjacent RIGGINS CONTENT. To my wife, Ann Fookes, part of FOOKES LOTT. Lands be sold to satisfy claims of Peter Smulling’s heirs to their father’s estate. Witness: Handy Hayman and Jonathan Pollitt.f. 546-547 MH.
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William Handy Will Date: Probate Date:
HANDY, William 4 April 1826 w. 10 May 1826 p. To my adopted daughter, Betsey Atkinson, EX. To pay debts of all my children and to convey to Peter White small lot, ½ acres where he lives. Lot of ground contracted to convey to Jonathan Eshom/Esham. To Lemuel H. Riggin, 200 acres. Marriage contract between me and my wife to be valid and effective. Witness: Charles Bennett, Irving Spence and Abby Ann Turner.f.221-222 MH.
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William Handy Will Date: Probate Date:
HANDY, William 4 April 1826 w. 10 May 1826 p. To my adopted daughter, Betsey Atkinson, the EX. To pay debts of all my children and to convey to Peter White small lot, ½ acres where he lives. Lot of ground contracted to convey to Jonathan Eshom/Esham. To Lemuel H. Riggin, 200 acres. Marriage contract between me and my wife be valid and effective. Witness: Charles Bennett, Irving Spence and Abby Ann Turner. f.221-222 MH.

Wicomico County Wills

Gillis Bussells w. 1 Jan 1898 p. 14 Mar 1900

to wife Sharlotte (Charlotte) 2/3 real estate

son Louis F. Bussells (exec) house where he lives

son Marion S. D. Bussells (exec) house where Gillis lived dau Mary V. Shockley $900

dau Lillian E. (Estel) Satterfield $900

dau Martha Thomas Livingston* Riggin house where Joseph Culver lives.

*(Note. In the probate record it is stated that Martha Thomas Livingston Riggin could not be found but that Martha Thomas Riggin could be and thus got her inheritance as stated. )
 

Charlotte Bussells w. 7 Oct 1902 p. 2 Feb 1907

dau Mary V. Shockley 2/5 of estate(?)

dau Lillian E. Satterfield 2/5 of estate(?)

dau Martha T. Riggin 1/5 of estate

son Marion S. Bussells 1/5 of estate

son Louis F. Bussells 1/5 of estate (exec)

Copyright 1999 R. A. Riggin, with special thanks for help in compiling my own branch of the family, L. Paul Morris, Jr.

Additional sources that may not be contained within my bibliography:

Teague Riggen and his Riggin/Riggen/Riggins Descendants Sharol Riggin Gateway Publishing Balt. Md. note: Sharol tried to put together one of the first attempts at Riggin genealogy in print. But due to the lack of sources and footnotes, much is to be scutinized. Among other speculation, in the idea Teague Riggin was the son of Tadge Reagh O'Dowd, of which I have never seen a solid piece of evidence to support this. Not to say this could not be true, but at this point unproven. Most of the information extracted from this book, printed in this document, has been verified with other primary sources. i.e. Somesret Co. Land, Chancery, Orphans Court, Deed, and Will records.

Ocean City Maryland LifeGuard Museum Project

Additional contributers

L. Paul Morris, Jr.

Jim Burgess The Burgess Family Gateway Publishing Co. Balt. Md.

Allen Riggin of North Carolina -Created a Descendant Chart that collected Riggin family lines

Shari Handley - LDGS and GenWeb Project

George Riggin of Wisconsin- Researched and transcibed all Riggin data in the Worcester County Deeds

Carol L. Nelson-Research for James Bayard Riggin's Md./Del roots in the western states

Rebecca F. Miller, Director of The Nabb Research Center, Salisbury State University
 

Bibliography and Source Books

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