Ancestors of Evaline Pritcher (Grindstaff) Mothers Side

Ancestors of Evaline Pritcher (Grindstaff)

Mothers Side

1. James Buchanan
2. Arthur Buchanan
3. William Buchanan
4. John (Wolfe) Buchanan
5. Mary Bedie Buchanan married "Fighting" Henry Grindstaff
6. Evaline Pritcher
(3) William Buchanan
Many Buchanan's could trace their lineage back to Thomas O'Bokane who lived in Ireland in the year 1136.  The family was Irish until the 13th Century when O'Bokan was given a land grant by the King of England.  This grant was called "Buchanan" in Sterling Shire, Scotland.  The family changed their name to match the land name.  The lineage of James Buchanan who died in 1751 goes back to Ireland then Scotland, to William Buchanan of Tyron County, Ireland.  William had a brother Thomas Buchanan, who was the ancestor of President James Buchanan.  
William Buchanan born 1765 in Maryland.  He was the son of Arthur and Mary Boswell Buchanan and the grandson of James and Isabella Games Buchanan.  James' lineage possibly goes back to WIlliam County Tyrone, Ireland who was the brother of Thomas.
William Buchanan born 1765 married Elizabeth Jones born 12-14-1774 died 5-28-1861 in Rutherford County in 1793.  She was the daughter of John Jones born 2-19-1750 died in 1821 and Elizabeth Poole (1750-1818).  William and Elizabth moved to Burke County NC the present Mitchell County in 1808.  The children of William and Elizabeth were 1. Mary J born 10-20-1794. 2. George B. born 11-26-1795 married Sarah Pittman.  3. Elizabeth born 3-6-1797 married Marvin Baker.  4. William born 4-19-1799 died 1876 who married first Polly Burleson and second Millie Greene.  5. James born 11-19-1800 died 5-10-1882.  He married Isabella Greene.  6. Anna born 3-7-1802 who married ? Greene.  7. John Wolfe born 5-16-1803 died 1880. Who married Senea Susan Burleson.  8. Authur born 11-16-1804 died after 1860 who married Isabell Wright.  9. Sarah born 8-3-1806.  10. Martha born 1-31-1808 died 1892 married Willis McKiney.  11. Leonard born 10-24-1809 died 6-15-1881 married Elizabeth Tate in 1829.  12. Clement born 8-15-1811 died 7-29-1888 married Mary Sparks.  13. Lewis born 2-21-1813 died 12-30-1877 married Nancy Bailey.  14. Nancy born 11-1-1814 died 8-19-1881 married Jacob Hutchins.  15. Ruth born 10-9-1816 married David Mullins.  16. Joseph Alexander born 7-7-1816 died 5-2-1979 married Mary (Polly) Ellis.
(4)John a Wolf and Lucinda Burleson Buchanan
John a Wolf Buchanan was years old and lived with his wife Senea Susan Burleson Buchanan age 24.  1There first child was Mary Bedie born on April 25, 1829 in Burke County, N.C. (1829 - 1919).  2Thomas L. was born on April 14, 1830 in Mitchell County, N.C. (1830 - 1920).  3Waightstel A. was born in 1833 in N.C. 1833.  4Louisa Jane Russell was born on February 15, 1835 in Haywood County, N.C. 1835 - 1910.  5Alexander George was born on April 13, 1835 in Yancy County N.C. 1836 - 1910. 6Harriet E. was born on January 8, 1838 in Mitchell County, N.C. 1838 - 1931. 7Mary Matilda was born in 1842 in N.C. 8Molten was born in 1842 in Mitchell County, N.C. 1842 - 1897.  9Elizabth Betsey was born in August 1843 in N.C. 1843 - 1932. Their first child Mary Bedie was our ancestor.

(5) Mary Bedie Buchanan 
married "Fighting" Henry Grindstaff. Mother of Evaline Pritcher.

(6) Evaline Pritcher 
Married Stephen Grindstaff

Extra Findings
Martin Pannell left France for America during early years of this countrys settlement.  He reportedly first settled on the coast of Florida.  His first wife (who is unknown to us) died during the course of sustaining themselves in this country.  Martin later married a Seminole Indian.  Two boys were born of this union, only one of which we have a record.  He was "celie" Pannell.  Martin reportedly died while both boys were still young.  His estate was mismanaged and the boys received nothing.  Celie relocated to Georgia where he established himeself and raised a family.  Later in life he returned to Florida to live with some of his children who had migrated there.  It is not known how many genertaions passed until some of the Pannells moved from Florida to Iredell County in the Piedmont of North Carolina.  A bearer of his forefather's name, Martin Pannell (b. 1808) left Iredell County and came to Cleveland County as a Baptist Minister.  He helped in organizing many of the churches in Shelby area.  He was married in Cleveland County to Cynthia Walker (b. 1812). She was the daughter of Elijah Walker (1793-1863) and ________ Wagner.  Both Martin and Cynthia are buried one mile southeart of Lattimore, North Carolina on Towery Road.  She died in 1877 and he in 1888.  To Martin and Cynthia were born the following children: Cecil, Doctor Woodward, Susie M., Hasiel S., Hartwell L., Betty J., Sarah W., William P., Ursula L., Narcissus, and Linda.  Woodward began traveling into the mountains of the Blue Ridge to trade.  It was on one of these trips that he met his future wife, Harriett Buchanan.  She was the daughter of Rev. John Wolf Buchanan and Cynthia Burleson. At this time, Rev. John was operation a water grist mill at the head waters of Little Rock Creek.  He was the first pastor of Bakersville Baptist Church.  He was the son of WIlliam Buchanan and Elizabeth Jones.  After Woodward and Harriett married, they moved to his home near Lattimore.  Harriett missed her homeland in the mountains and returned there to live.  When the "War Between the States" broke out, Woodward and his two brothers WIlliam and Haiel, all volunteered and joined Co. I of the 38th Regiment North Carolina Infantry, C.S.A.  This unit was known as the "Cleveland Marksmen."  Woodward, who attained the rank of 4th Sergeant, was severely wounded in the thigh at Mechanicsville.  William was also wounded and died in a prison hospital.  All three brothers became prisoners of war before it ended.  After that Hasiel left N.C. for Mississippi and Woodward returned to his family in Mitchell County.  Rev. Buchanan endowed Woodward and Harriett with three hundred acres of land in Whiteoak Community of Mitchell County, thats where they settle there permanently.
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1. Aaron Burleson I
2. Aaron Burleson II
3. Thomas Burleson 
4. Lucinda Burleson married 
(2) Aaron Burleson II
Family tradition has been that Aaron Burleson II born 1730 was the son of Aaron Burleson I who came to Baltimore in 1726 from Cerleon Wales. Some have researched in Wales and found no trace of Aaron there. One possibility is that Aaron was in the army, stationed in Wales and afterwards came to America looking for his brother, Edward, who settled in Conneticutt about 1716. We do not know if he found Edward or not. One piece of evidence show that Aaron 1 might have been in New Jersey, prior to going to Virginia. It is possible that he and 2 brothers who are on tax roll of Lunenburg co. Virginia in 1748-50. These three Burlesons being in Virginia at the same time and place, partially upholds the tradition that these three brothers cameto North Carolina together. They seem to have spread over North Carolina, and into Georgia, Alabama, and other southern states. Aaron Burleson I next appeared in Anson County North Carolina. He was married to woman named Sarah. Their sons were; Thomas, Aaron II, Jesse, Edward, Daniel, David, John, and James. 
Thomas, Aaron II, and Jesse fought in the American Revolution and survived, But Edward and James were killed. (The former by Tories). Aaron I's six daughters married into the Hardeman Ellison, Harrington, Shipman and Crawford families. Aaron Burleson II lived in Rutherford county North Carolina at Sandy Run in 1778. Aaron sold his property in Rutherford County and moved to Tennessee. 
The wife of Aaron II was Rachel Hendricks. Their children were Aaron 3, Thomas, James, Elizabeth, Sarah, Nancy, John, Jonathan, Joseph, Abigail, Rachel, Mary, Rhoda. North Carolina historians maintain that Aaron 2 was killed by Indians on Cane Creek while he was with Daniel Boone. Rachel Burleson, after his death, deeded their land to Azariah Doty and went back to North Carolina.
The second child of Aaron II and Rachel Thomas born 1750 and died before 1830 married Margaret Greene.  Most Avery, Mitchell and Yancy County Burleson's decended from him.  This is also our ancestors.

*If you have any questions or additional information:  Feel free to email me at GrindstaffKoonFamilyHistory@gmail.com

Benedict Koon and His Decendants (Maggie Sue's Fathers Side)

Benedict Koon and His Decendants

1. Benedict Koon
2. Nicholas Koon
3. Madison Koon
4. Joseph Grayson Koon
5. LeeMont Koon
6. Maggie Sue Koon Grindstaff

(1) Benedict Koon
In the fall of 1752 a ship sailed into the port of Charleston, South Carolina arriving from Rotterdam, Holland.  Our ancestor (Benedictres Kuhn) changed to Benedict Koon.  His wife and 1 son George Adam were aboard.  Benedict died in Newberry County, South Carolina between 1790 and 1800.  The 1790 Census indicates that Benedict only had 2 children.  George Adam Koon, who was born in Germany in 1744, lived in Newberry County and died there in 1821.  His will names a wife, Rosana Barbara Koon.  Their children were Uriah, John, George, Adam, David, Elizabeth, Barbara, Katherine, and a Grandson Martin Koon.  Benedicts other child was Nicholas Koon.  

(2) Nicholas Koon
Who was born in 1753 in Newberry County, South Carolina.  He is listed as a millright when he buys 150 acres of land close to his father Benedict.  This was probably about the time of Nicholas' marriage to Mary Dewalt.  Nicholas and Mary moved to Rutherford County by 1790 and settled on Cedar Creek and erected a corn mill.  He appeared in the 1790 Census there.  Nicholas death notice appeared in the Western Advertiser, Rutherford, N.C. issue December 31, 1831 as follows :  on Bill's Creek in this county on the 26th Mr. Nichols Coon Age 78 died.  His children were George, Peter, one son probably died young, Rachael, Susanah and Mary Jane.  Nicholas' son George had children: John, Madison, Ruth, Miriam, Demaris, Armintha, Dewalt and Mary Polly.
Census
In the 1810 Census for Rutherford County, in the Nicholas Koon household there were: 1 white male age 45 up, 1 white female 45 up, 1 white male (16-26), 2 white females (10-15) They had one loom and made 100 yards annually which was 50 dollars worth.  In the 1830 Census for Rutherford County, Nicholas Koon household consisted of 1 white male (70-80) 1 white female (70-80) 1 white female (10-15) 1 white female (20-30) 1 white female (30-40).  In the 1820  Census the slaves of Nicholas Koon were 1 female 10 years old, 2 females (26-45) 1 bought not nationalized and 1 farmer.
In the 1870 Census in the household of Madison Koon there was Madison Koon 59, white amle farmer.  Marina 55, white female, keeping house, Carolina 34, white female keeping house,  Joseph Grayson, 18, farmer.  Columbus 16, white male, in school.  Martha J. 14, white female, in school.
In the 1880 Census in the household of Madison Koon there was Madison Koon age 70, Marina Age 64, Caroline age 36, Columbus age 26. 

(3) Madison Koon
Madison born 06/01/1810 married Marena Blankenship 10/26/1833 and went to McDowell County, N.C.  This is our ancestor.  Their children were Alvira 1833, Calvin, Julian, Carolina, George Wesley, Mary, Lafayette, Mira Jane, Joseph Grayson, Columbus, and Josephine.  Joseph Grayson was our ancestor.

Census:
In the 1860 Census of Rutherford County in the Madison Koon household it was listed as Madison Koon, 50 Male.  Mariam, 44, female.  Caroline, 21, female.  George, 19, male. Mary, 16, female. Lafayette, 14 Male.  Myra, 12, female. Grayson, 10, male.  Columbus, 6 male.  They had a real estate value of $1500.00 and a personal estate value of $600.00.

(4) Joseph Grayson and Julia E Crawford
Joseph Grayson born 1851 married Julia E Crawford.  Their children were Lee Mont, Lizzie, Columbus, Laura Jane, Hessie Bell, Hallie, Grover, Evelyn, Goldie, James, Martha Josephine.  Lee Mont married Mary Eva Nanney.  Lizzie married WIllard Harris.  Columbus married ____ Sales.  Laura Jane married Elgaja Flack.  Hessie Bell married Jarvis Flack.  Hessie Bell married Jarvis Flack.  Hallie married Lester Byrd.  Grover married Ethel Sales and Gladys ____.  Evelyn married James Ballard.  Goldie married Albert West.  James never married.  Martha Josephine married Rufus Flack.
Columbus went to California and Lee Mont was going to go with him but sitting on a fence wiating to go, he changed his mind.
Census
In the 1900 Census the household of Grayson Koon was listed as Grayson, head white male from January 1851, Married 27 years, a 49 year odl farmer.  His wife Julie E, white female born May 1857, 43 years old married 27 years.  Son Lee Mont, white male 24 years old, single, born December 1875.  Columbus, son, white male 20 years old, single, born May 1880.  Lizzie, daughter, 18 years old, single born January 1882.  Hessie B. daughter 16 years old, single born January 1884.  Grover P. son 11 years old, single, born December 1888.  Laura Jane daughter 8 years old, single, born July 1891.  Hallie, daughter six years old, single born January 1894.  Evelyn born January 1897, 3 years old white female.  Goldie daughter female white, no dates.  James son b. March 1899, 1 year old single male white.

(5) Lee Mont Koon and Mary Eva Nanney
Lee Mont Koon age 26 married Mary Eva Nanney 20 on April 12, 1905.  Lee Mont Koon was born December 20, 1875 died August 22, 1958.  He married Mary Eva Nanney born March 15, 1886 died May 4, 1929.  
Their children were:

1. Jackson Lee born 08/16/1906 died 07/08/1985. 
2. Fannie Evelyn born 10/02/1907 died 05/24/1924. 
3. Maggie Sue born 10/20/1909 died 08/31/1988
4. Julia Ethel 12/30/1910 died 07/05/1990
5. Anna Elle
6. Mary Lizzie

Jackson Lee married Irenen Barnes they had 1 daughter Jacquette who had a son named Robbie.  She married Maxwell Rober Robinson.  Fannie Evelyn who died at the age of 16, from the measles and a possible infection.  Maggie Sue married Claude Grindstaff and had 10 children.  This is my mother.  Julia Ethel married Jerome Buchanan.  They had Juanita, Ruby and 2 other children that died.  She married another man Cloyce Silvers.  Anna Belle married and had a sonnamed Ken.  She then married Hastings Queen and had Bill and Betty.  Mary Lizzie married Chester Hash and had Lee, Sara, and Ray.  Marjorie married Joseph H. Voss.  She never had any children.  Ruby died the day she was born, June 22, 1925.
Lee Mont Koon 26 married Mary Eva Nanney 20 by Rev. C.B. Justice Baptist Minister on April 12, 1905.  Witness: E.A. Justice, Baylus Justice, P McDowell.

Lee Mont Koon

Mary Eva Nanney Koon

Katie Belle and Lee Mont Koon

(6) Maggie Sue Koon Grindstaff
Born 10-20-1909 - died 08-31-1988.  Married Claude Grindstaff.
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Extra Findings
Wills of Madison Koon
In the name of God Amen!
I Madison Koon of Count of Rutherford and the sate of North Carolina do make and ordain this my last will and testament in manner and form following, that is to say.  I give and bequeath unto my wife Marena all my estate of every kind real and personal during widowhood or death.  I give and will that my real estate be equally divided between two daughters namely: Caroline and Josephine, in such a way that Carolines part shall include my house and spring, garden and half of my orchard, and all properties of every kind to rqually divided between them.  I farther will that the estate herein named decend to their issue but if they die without issue I will that Carolines part descend to my son C.C. Koon and Josephines part descend to my son J.G. Koon, I constitute and appoint J.G. Koon and C.C. Koon my exectors of this my last will and testament.  
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this 25th day of November A.D. 1878.  Madison Koon (Seal) G.W. Harris and Amos Nanney.
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Census:
In 1820 in the household of George Koon, there were 1 white female 45 and up. Two white males 10-16.  Two white females 10-16.
Will of George Koon:  August court 1860. 
I George Koon of the count of Rutherford and state of North Carolina, being of sound mind and memory, but considering the uncertainty of my earthly existance do make and ordain this my last will and testament in manner and form following, that is to say I give and bequeath unto muy daughter Ruth Blankeship one negro girl named Nancy, at this time in her possession.  Also I give and bequeath unto my daughter Miream Nanney one negro girl named Mandahand her mother Zurdah, also I give and bequeath unto my daughter Polly Ray, one negrow girl named Matildah, also I direct that my executors herein after named sell one negro man named Leander, at public auction, of living with bond or note bearing interest from date and not living, one negro boy named Spencer related to Leander and the proceeds of sale to be disposed of as follows.  I direct that two hundred dollars be paid to my grandson Humphrey P. Morgan and also to my granddaughter Nancy Morgan the sum of two hundred dollars.  Also to my grandson Albert F. Morgan the balance of the proceeds of the sale of said negro and incase either of the above named grandchildren should die before the above described dividens be made leaving no issue their part to be equally divided between surviving two and in case one only is living I direct that all be paid over to that one and in case neither are living the whole process of said negro be paid over to my legal heirs by legal distribution. 
Also I give and bequeath into my beloved wife anhester during her life or widowhood, three cows and calves, her choice, also my hogs and sheep, one horse, her choice also all my household and kitchen furniture, also all my grains and crop on hand of every kind at my death.  Also I give and bequeath unto my beloved wife during her life or widowhood, one negro man named Jerry, one negro man named Spence, unless disposed of as above described one negro woman named Sina, also Sina's boys named John, Frank, Lynch, and Marcus and all of her issue of children which be born of her body.  Being the negros bequeathed to my beloved wife at her marriage or death, I direct that my executors sell at public auction with interest on bond from date and the proceeds of the sale of paid negros be disposed of as follows.
First I give and bequeath unto my son John Koon the sum of one dollar.  Second I give and bequeath unto my sons G.W. Koon, John W. Koon, Theles E. Koon, James H. Koon, his daughter Catharine Altha Ann Koon one eighth part of the price and proveeds of the last mentioned negro, also I give and bequeath unto my sons Madison Koon, Devalt Koon daughter, Ruth Blankenship, Miriam Nanney, Amintha Adair and Polly Ray and my surviving grandson namely H.F. Morgan, A.F. Morgan and my granddaughter Nancy Morgan the other seven parts of the proceed of the sale of said negro.  My last named grandchildren to have what would be their deceased mother's part.
The balance of my property not mentioned, I direct that my executors shall sell and the proceeds be equally divided between my heirs.  I constitute and apoint Madison and Devalt Koon my executors of my last will and testament.
In testimony I have set my hand and seal this 30th day of October A.D. 1859.  Signed in the presents of Noah Koon, Amos Nanney, George Koon (seal).
"Marriages" The Western Vindicator Thursday October 27th, 1898.  Mr. Millard Harris and Miss Lizzie Koon were married by Rev. J.C. Sorrells.
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Census:
In the 1910 Census of Rutherford County they were listed as Josphe G. head 59 years old.  Julie E, wife, 57.  Grover, son, 21. Goldie, daughter, 19.  Hallie, daughter, 15.  Evelyn, daughter, 13.  James, son, 9.

*If you have any questions or additional information:  Feel free to email me at GrindstaffKoonFamilyHistory@gmail.com

Ancestors of Maggie Sue Koon Grindstaff (Mothers Side)

Ancestors of Maggie Sue Koon Grindstaff

(Mothers Side)

1. Hugh Nanney
2. Robert Nanney
3.  Samuel Nanney
4. John Nanney
5. John Nanney III
6. Shadrak Nanney
7. Thomas Nanney
8. William Nanney
9. Asbury Nanney
10. Mary Eva Nanney
11. Maggie Sue Koon Grindstaff

(6) Shadrak Nanney
came to rutherford county 1798 where he bought land in union mills.  he married mary cob wright in V.A. on 01-26-1790. He had Thomas.

(7) Thomas Nanney and Mary Polly Flack
Thomas Nanney born 1794, married Mary Polly Flack, they had fourteen children.
1. Amos Nanney born 1827-1906.  He married Tempa Wilkerson.
2. Algiria married Porter Owenby Morgan.
3. Thomas Clingman 1-12-1856 married Mary Elizabeth Morgan.
4. Myra born 8-28-1825 died 7-14-1909  married Inchabod Robertson.
5. Narcissus Nanney born 4-22-1829 died 5-15-1916 married Barnett Hill born 1828 died 1917, they had 6 children.
6. Cebern born 10-25-1830 died 11-12-1862.  Married Alvira Koon.  Enlisted 3-24-1862.  Co. G 50th Regiment NC Infantry.  Killed in action.
7. William born 11-11-1832 died 6-15-1862 married Nancy Jane Sorrels.  This is our ancestors.
8. Martin Lee born 11-12-1834 died (unknown).  Died in, or just after the war between the states.  Enlisted in CSA in 1862 and mustered out 8-16-1863.
9. Grizalee born 8-18-1841 died 1-1-1923. Married Calirn Jones Hill.
10. Drury Bobbins born 2-13-1844 died 5-14-1929.  Married Naomi Koon Stokes. She died twelve days after her baby was born.  They had Crayton.  He married second wife Mary Elizabeth Justice.  They had three children.
11. Thomas and Mary Polly were married 10-27-1821.  Thomas Nanney 3-17-1794 to 9-16-1856.  Mary Polly 12-21-1800 - 4-21-1878.

(8) William Nanney and Nancy Jane Sorrels
William Nanney born 11-11-1832 died June 15, 1862.  He was a confederate soldier in companty G. 50th North Carolina Regiment.  He married Nancy Jane Sorrels born 3-9-1836 died 5-21-1899.  They were married 9-17-1857.  Their children were
1. Asbury Hull born 9-13-1858.  died 10-10-1946.
2. Franklin born 1859?.
3. Mary Ann born 1861?
In the wills for Rutherford County we found a will for Nancy Jane Nanney.  12 May 1899, 12 July 1899, 'My three children, my daughter Mary Ann Adair, deceased, had a 2 minors Edward and Jennie Adair about 5 months and will not be of fulle age of 21 until 1 December 1919, Friend J.D. Morris to be guardian of Adair children Excutive A.H.Nanney witness D.D. Morris, M.A. Nanney.'
"Will for Mary Nanny Mother of WIlliam Nanney."
Mary Nanney 2 February 1871, 6 May 1878.  All my children that are alive and all the heirs of those that are dead to witness, Mirah Roberston, Amos Nanney, Narcissa HIll, the heirs of Cebern Nanney.  The heirs of WIlliam Nanney, the heirs of Martin Nanney, Aligira Morgan, Mary Salina Morgan, Grizza Lee Hill, and Drury D. Nanney, Exec. son Amos Nanney.  If Amos should died then son Drury D. Nanney.  Wit. R.L. Gilkey, John J Flack, Codicil, 12 January 1872, my 2 grandchildren Calvin and Anderson Naney.  Wit. R.O. Ledbetter, John J Flack at time of probate R.L. Gilkey had died.
"Will of Thomas Nanney Sr.  Father of William Nanney."
Thomas Nanney Sr.  14 June 1856, fall 1856.  Wife Mary, my children who are minors.  To my 3 sons who are single to make them equal with amos and Ceborn. My son Martin, my two daughters Mary Selena and Grigga to be equal with my married daughters.  Exec. sons Amos and Ceborn Nanney.  Wit. T.B. Justice, John Flack.

(9)Asbury Nanney and Margaret A. Reid (Parents of Mary Eva)
Asbury Hull Nanney born 9-13-1858 died 10-10-1946 married Margaret A. Reid on 17 May 1883.  Margaret "Maggie" was born 5-17-1860, died 12-24-1927.  Their children were
1. Mary Eva born 3-15-1885, died 5-4-1929.
2.&3. Caria and Pear twin girls born February 1888.
4. Harrison R. born 10-1891.
5. Fred born 9-1895.
6. Lidda born 10-1896
"Grave in Round Hill Graveyard"
Pearl Nanney Miller 2-20-1888 - 3-6-1968.  The daughter of Fred Nanney Glady's married Grover Koon.  She was his 2nd wife.  They had 3 sons, Bobby, Billy and Charles.

1.Fred Nanney  2. Asbury Nanney  3. C. Frank Keeter  

4.  Rev. A.P. Sorrels

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(10) Mary Eva Nanney

Mary Eva born 3-15-1885, died 5-4-1929.  Mother of Maggie Sue Koon Grindstaff

(11) Maggie Sue Koon Grindstaff

Born 10-20-1909 - died 08-31-1988.  Married Claude Grindstaff.

Extra Findings

Robert Nanney  and  Rev. John Wheelright

Rev. John Wheelright, son of Robert Wheelright was born in Cumberworth, England in 1592.  He came to America and settled in Boston and later went to New Hampshire where he founded the town of Exeter in 1638.  He later moved to Wales, Maine.

He first married Marie Storee in Bilsby on 11-8-1621.  His second marriage was to Mary Hutchinson on 5-18-1629.  The children of his second wife Mary are Katherine born 11-4-1630 married Robert Nanney (from whom the Nanney family of Rutherford County decended). Robert Nanney is the second name listed on the town record of Exeter, the first being John Wheelright.  Robert Nanney was born in 1615 in Merionthshire, Wales and was the grandson of Hugh and Ann Vaughn Nanney.  He came to Boston, Mass on the ship "Increase" in 1635 at the age of 22 years old.  In 1652 married Catherine Wheelright, and died on 8-27-1663.  He was the father of 7 children, 3 of whom died young.  His surviving children were Joseph, born 6-1-1658.  Samuel, born 8-27-1659.  Mary, born 6-22-1661. and Elizabeth, born in 1663.  Samuel Nanney born in 1659 was the father of John Nanney Sr. who was born in 1685 in Virginia.  John Nanney Sr. a large land ownder married Frances Howard the will of John Nanney Jr. born in 1724 was probated in Brunswick County Virginia. It was written 7-17-1786.  It names his sons, Amos, Uriah, William, John Jr.  Daughter names are,  Elizabeth Cator, Frances Massey, and Silvanees Moore.

The next generation we descended from is John Nanney III, born in 1750 who married Ellen. Last name unknown.  His will in Brunswick County VA names his wife, Ellen and sons Drury, and Jordan, and Shadrach.  Daughters Molly Rody, Sally and Rebecca.

Shadrach came to Rutherford County in 1798 where he bought land in Union Mills.  He married Mary Cobb Wright in Virginia in 1-26-1790.  They had the following children.  Edmond, Randel, Thomas, James, and two daughters whose names are unknown.

Deed for Rutherford County 1779-1910.

Walter Sorrels 1-15-1846.  Wife Marey Bankston Sorrells, two sons Charles and Israel Sorrels.  Israel P. Sorrels and Mary Whitaker were married 4-16-1832.  In the 1850 Census for Rutherford County, North Carolina their family was listed as Israel Sorrels, 39 a Carpenter.  Mary 38, Franklin 17, Jane 14, Mary A. 12, Silus 10, Charles 8, Miller 3, Pinkney 8 months.  According to a will for Israel P Sorrels, he had 3 more children named Catherine, Lott, and Bartlett Malcolm.

"Ruther County Wills"

Israel P. Sorrels 24-June-1882, 16 March 1900, wife, Mary.  Youngest son Malclom Layfayette Sorrels, Equal division from sale of personal property amoung Lorr, Franklin, Charles, Miller, Pinkney, Bartlett and Catherine wife of M.L. Blankenship.  Exec.Sons Lott, Franklin, grandson Asbury Nanney, William Sorrels Jr.

Nancy Jane Sorrels married WIlliam Nanney.  This is my ancestors.

Israel P. Sorrels was Pastor of Hillsdale Church built by Archibald Blankenship in Rutherford County, North Carolina.


*If you have any questions or additional information:  Feel free to email me at GrindstaffKoonFamilyHistory@gmail.com

Children Of Claude and Maggie Sue

Paul Vance and Reaney Grindstaff

1. Reaney Elizabeth married Paul Vance 12-18-1945.  She was born 10-9-1928 died 5-3-2003.  Paul died 4-17-2000.  Their children were 1. Charles born 10-24-1947 died 4-20-1984, married Louise Farris had 4 daughters. [1.Amy Lynn born 9-29-1974.  2.Melissa Marie born 1-17-1980. 3. Angela 1-21-1982.  4. Jessica Ann 5-23-1983.]  2. Tommy Dale born 3-24-1951 married Karen ? (divorced) had one daughter Shena Michelle born 6-20-1978.  Tommy died 5-30-2016.  3. Paul Jr. born 8-28-1953 married Trudy 6-30-1984.  They had no children.  4. Teddy Wayne born 11-23-1956 died 6-23-1973.  Teddy Wayne was killed in a car wreck when he was a teenager.   He was never married.

Paul and Reaney Vance

Mack Ray Berry and Leila Marie Grindstaff
Leila Marie born 9-12-1930 married Mack Ray Berry 12-23-1959, he died 11-12-1988.  He was born 5-8-1928.  They had 2 children and 1 Rosalee born dead.  1. Glenda Ann born 11-16-1962 married Allan Kirby in 1982 (divorced), had 1 child, Daniel Lee Kirby born 4-17-1984.  She married 2nd husband Paul Flynn 4-11-1989, no children.  2.  Billy Ray born 5-9-1966, married shawn 12-20-1986. (divorced) no children.

Leila and Mack Berry

Cecil and Helene Grindstaff
Cecil Martin born 9-16-1934 died May 17, 2014.  Married Dorothy Helene Rayfield born 2-8-1937.  They were amrried on 9-11-1954.  Their children were 1. Linda Sue Grindstaff born 11-14-1955 in Canton, Ohio.  Married James Daugherty, 12-14-1974 (divorced 4-1997) She had 2 daughters. [1. Tanya Sue born 2-24-1977. 2. Tori Ann born 6-6-1990.] 2. Cecil Eugene Grindstaff born 7-26-1957 married Lucinda Marie Rose on 10-9-1976.  They had two children. [1. Troy Adam born 6-22-1988 married Charity Maley in 2009, they had two children Trinity and Trevor.  2. Debbie Marie born 9-25-1990.]

Cecil and Helene Grindstaff

Larkin and Mildred Townsend
Mildred Ruth Grindstaff born 11-24-1936 married Larkin Harrison Townsend on 6-23-1956.  Larkin was born 5-17-1925 died 11-21-1977.  He died when a farm tractor turned over on him.  They had 4 children.  [1. Patricia Jean born 5-29-1957, married Rondy Owens 5-4-1996.  She had 2 children. [1. Christina Townsend married Rondy Gill 1-25-1997.  They had 1 child Dustin Paul 4-27-1997.] [2. Regina townsend born 6-4-1979 married Justin Wyke 12-6-2006.  No children.] [2. Gary married Hope Cauthen 9-20-1980.  Gary was born 4-13-1958.  They had a daughter Merissa, not married no children.] [3. Ruth Maxine Townsend born 5-16-1964 married Mitchell Hall 7-1-1984.  They had one son born 12-14-1987 names Jason Scott.  Then she married James Horton on 10-5-1996 and they had one son, Harrison James Horton born 3-20-1998.] [4. Bobby Lee Townsend born 1-25-1968 married Robin Pearson on 12-24-1988.  They had 2 children 1. Samantha married Noah Carroll. 2. Matthew Larkin born 2-21-1992 engaged to Rachel Tadlock.]
by Mildred Grindstaff Townsend
"When I was growing up we had to wash dishes, saw wood, and carry it into the house and carry in the water.  We had time to play we had a swing in a sarvis tree where we could swing real high.  We climbed poplar sapling trees to the top and swing to the ground in them.
We had chickens we had to feed and gather eggs which I loved to do.  In winter when it snowed we would have snowball fights and sleigh ride.
We lived in a two room house.  We had a square hold about 6 x 10 foot for our cellar, which we covered with a pieve of metal roofing and leaves on top of it.  We buried our potatoes in the holes.
One time when Reaney, my older sister and mama were peeling peaches I grabbed a peach she had peeled and put it in a pan.  She smacked at me and cut me with her knife and I still have the scar."

Clarence and Carol Grindstaff
Clarence Jack Grindstaff born 9-29-1938 married Carol Jean Klotz born 8-1-1938 married on 6-29-1957.  Their children were [1.Kevin Jack born 8-28-1958 married Cindy Borne on 9-16-2978. They had 2 children. [1.Brad born 4-30-1982 married Renee Miller 5-17-2003.  Brad had 2 children.  Brenna 9-24-2007 and Noah 3-24-2010.  2. Kari born 6-12-1985 married Jim Hurley 1-11-2011.  Kari's Children are [1.Nora born 10-8-2011. 2. Lily born 6-11-2012. 3. Ivy 5-28-2015. 4.Mae born December 2016.] 2. Connie Jean born 7-29-1960 married Robert Edward Mace born 11-14-1961 on 12-4-1982.  They had 2 children. [1. Chad Edward born 6-28-1985 married Mandy Noble 10-1-2015. 2. Chandra Jean born 9-1-1988 married JOsh Ray 4-16-16.]  3. Sonia Kay born 9-25-1966 married William Eric Burbart born 6-21-1966.  Their children were Autumn Ray born 10-22-1994. Walter Sky born 9-28-1997 later divorced William.

Clarence and Carol Grindstaff

Ralph and Elsie Berry
Elsie Bernice Grindstaff born 09-12-1941 married Ralph Berry born 3-26-1941 on 1-30-1960.  Her children were 1. Linda Cheryl born 1-31-1961.  She married Michael A Runion who was born 1-15-1957 on 11-8-1980.  Her children were [1.  Tara Lynn born 9-21-1981 who married Jeremy Swanson.  They had 2 children Ashlyn Abigail born 9-19-2012, and Maggie Carolina (named after her great grandmother) born 1-3-2014.  2. Ashley Nicole was born 4-7-1987 married Joshua Scott Tallent born 12-16-1986 on 05-23-2009.  No children. Linda married second Kenneth Wayne Owens born 2-26-1961.  They had one son Thomas Allen Owens born 1-30-1990.]  2. Ralph Wayne Berry born 12-21-1961 never married, died 8-8-1996 at the age of 34 from cancer.  3. Michael David born 5-25-1963 married Cheryl Harrison born 3-7-1966. [ They had one daughter Michelle Dawn born 5-26-1982. Michelle married Jarrad Allen Poarch born 8-3-1978.  They had 2 children Kaden Allen Poarch 11-19-2003. 2. Haven Blair born 4-18-2007.  Michael and Cheryl divorced.  Michael Married 2nd. Sherry Lynn Whistnant on 8-5-1988.  They had 2 children 1. Michael David Jr. born 6-6-1991.  2. Stacey Lynn born 10-28-1993.  Michael and Sherry divorced.] 4. Keith Allan born 4-30-1966 married Angela HOp Watson born 8-14-1964 on 9-21-1990.  Their children were 1. Keith Allan Jr. born 4-30-1992, not married.  Miranda Karen born 6-2-1993 married Jonathan Dagaerag 3-15-1990.  Keith and Angie were divorced.  Keith married Andre Riddle (Divorced.)] Ronny Evan born 7-9-1967, married Vickie Colvard born 1-3-1968 in 8-1986.  Their children were [1.Victor Adam born 10-5-1987 married Kimberly Pearson on 4-14-2007, had Joshua Evan born 12-15-2007.  2. Ronny Paul born 8-15-1989 married Amber Christina Earhart on 2-14-2011.  Ronny and Vickie divorced.  Ronny Married Shirley Christine Barnett born 6-8-1973 on 6-27-1992.  Their daughter Teresa Lynn born 1-7-1992 married Cody Lowman born 7-9-1990 on 12-31-2011, Evan born 5-8-2011.  Ronny and Christine divorced.  Ronny married Judy Wilcox Hodges born 3-19, 1959.  They had no children.  Judy had 2 boys, Travis and derrick Hodges and 1 grandson Bruce Brandon Hodge.] 6.Melanie Evonne born 12-5-1977 married Michael Anthony Poarch born 3-6-1965 on 7-1-2006.  Their children were [1.Hailey Morgan born 5-8-2007, 2. Gracie Elise born 12-11-2009.]
By Elsie Grindstaff Berry
"I grew up in the mountains of Avery County, North Carolina.  When I was a young, we hat to carry water from a spring, when we took a bath we had to heat water for it and pour it in a metal tub that my mother washed clothes in.  We had to cut our own wood and carry it in the house to cook and to heat with.  We had to grow our own food which my mother canned so we could eat through the winter and we had to create our own entertainment.  We would walk in the woods and climb trees.  We once had a swing in a tree where we could swing a long way out in the air. 
We had a crib where we put our corn to feed the snimals, sometimes when it was a rainy day we would climb into the crib and throw the corn from one end of the crib to another, so we could kill the mice that we found.  We wanted to keep the baby mice until we were told that little mice grew into a big mice."

Ralph and Elsie Berry

Howard and Norma Bentley
Norma Jean Grindstaff born 9-12-1943 married Howard Joseph Bentley born 11-17-1938 on 9-23-1961.  Their children were [1. Lisa Karen born 11-2-1962.  Lisa married Tony English born 11-24-1957 on 11-8-1980.  They had 3 girls 1. Tabitha Michelle born 11-23-1982 married Jason Oakes born 4-12-1981 and they had 2 daughters named Sernity Grace born 6-16-2006 and Jaylynn born 2-2-2009.  2. Tony Elisha born 3-16-1984 married Reginal Lee Greer Jr. on 11-13-2004.  Their children were 1. Lauren Rae born 9-1-2006. 2. Grayson River born 1-14-2009.  3. Rylan Leis 12-21-2010. 3. Clarissa Dawn born 12-5-1988 married Matthew Shoemaker on 10-1-2011.  Their children are 1. Alexis Maxine born 3-19-2013.  2. Ethan Allen born 11-7-2014.] [2. Howard Steve born 3-18-1964 married Angela Ann Winkler born 3-26-1960 on 3-3-1984.  They had one daughter, Carla Danielle born 3-25-1987.  She married Brian Keith Mcginnis, born 8-14-1973.  They had 2 children.  1. Michael Alexander born 1-16-2007 and Elizabeth Ann born 7-30-2014.  Steve and Ann were divorced.  Steve married Judith Ann Sterling.  She had 1.Christopher Manuel Mendez born 5-18-2004.  2. Kimberly Beatriz Mendez born 10-14-?.] [Judy Darlene born 8-13-1970 married Kirk Shawn Watson born 12-12-1962 on 12-15-1990.  Their children were [1.Kristin Suzanne born 8-10-1991.  She married Thomas Huffman born 9-22-2001.  Her children were 1. William Howard born 5-7-2010.  Joseph Mac Wood 11-27-1990 was father to 2. Kailey Grace born 12-4-2014. 2.] [ Karen Nicole born 3-15-1993 not married.  Kathryn Jean born 7-16-2004.  Kyle Joseph born 2-13-2006.]
by Norma Grindstaff Bentley
"I can remember when we would go through the bottom as we called it and crawl through the neighbors fence and go through the neighbors woods, to wait for the school bus to pick us up and take us to Minneapolis school.  I remember the bus being late one morning I got so cold, I thought I would freeze to death.  
I remember us racing home from school one day to be the first to pull the string on our new electric lights they had installed while we were at school.
I remember being from school becuase I was sick.  I was laying on the couch that our sister Leila had bought us.  Our older sister Reaney was in our back room with our mother, she was having her baby.  I dont remember who delivered her baby, but it was dead when it was bron because it had what they use to call a water head.  I remember Mama and Reaney were discussing what to name it.  mama said name it Claude or Paul after its daddy or grandpa; it wouldnt matter because it wouldnt be used anyway.
I remmeber keeping our milk in the spring to keep it cool for us to drink at our meals.
I remember when we had to learn how to put our water bucket quickly in the middle of the spring and bring it back out before we stirred up all of the sediments in the bottom of the spring."

Norma and Howard Bentley

James and Reva Grindstaff
James Burl born 12-21-1945 married Reva Jean Story born 5-10-1947 on 8-13-1965.  Their children were James Melvin born 5-29-1966.  He married Tammy Ohmer born 10-1-1971 on 4-2-2005.  Melvin had no children.  Tammy had 1. Jeffrey 9-27-1989. 2. Charles born 4-2-1993.][2. Susan Burlene born 11-26-1969, married Jerry Hamby born 2-5-1966 on 3-2-1991.  They had 1 daughter, Sara Elizabeth born 6-9-1992.  Not married.

James and Reva Grindstaff

James, Elsie, Mildred, Leila, Clarence, Reaney, Norma Jean

Cecil, James, and Clarence

Back Row: Clarence, Howard (Husband of Norma), Cecil, Ralph (Husband of Elsie), James
Front Row: Carol (Wife of Clarence), Reva (Wife of James), Helene (Wife of Cecil), Norma Jean, Leila, Elsie.

*If you have any questions or additional information:  Feel free to email me at GrindstaffKoonFamilyHistory@gmail.com

Claude Grindstaff and Maggie Sue Koon

Claude Grindstaff and Maggie Sue Koon

Claude Grindstaff was born March 4, 1897 in Avery County, N.C. to Stephen Grindstaff born August 18, 1855 died 1930.  He married Evaline Pritcher Grindstaff in August 1875.  She was born in August 1854 and died in 1930.  When Claude was about 30 he went to Rutherford County, N.C. to work at a sawmill and he met and fell in love with a woman named Maggie Sue Koon born October 20, 1909 - died August 31, 1988.  Claude died July 1, 1976.  

The whole town was upset because the men that worked with the sawmill were after the girls in the community.  When Claude and Maggie couldnt see each other they left letters for each other under a special rock.
Maggie was the daughter of Lee Mont Koon and Mary Eva Nanney Koon.  Claude and Maggie were married on December 26, 1927
Claude Grindstaff went to ohio to work for a couple of years.  While he was there he worked in a steel mill called "United Engineering."  At one time, Claude went out west to work at a saw mill with his brother in law Milton Ashley.

Claude and Maggie Sue Grindstaff

Maggie Sue Grindstaff

Children of Claude and Maggie Grindstaff:

1. Reaney Elizabeth married Paul Vance 12-18-1945.  She was born 10-9-1928 died 5-3-2003.  

2.  Leila Marie born 9-12-1930 married Mack Ray Berry 12-23-1959.

3. Louis Stephen born 11-18-1932 died 4-27-1934.  He died from an intestinal obstruction that turned into grangreen.  Mama said his footprints stayed in teh sand outside the house for weeks after he died.

4. Cecil Martin born 9-16-1934 died 05-17-2014.  Married Dorothy Helene Rayfield on 9-11-1954.  

5. Mildred Ruth Grindstaff born 11-24-1936 married Larkin Harrison Townsend on 6-23-1956.  

6. Clarence Jack Grindstaff born 9-29-1938 married Carol Jean Klotz born 8-1-1938 married on 6-8-1957. 

7. Neil was born 8-12-1940 died 8-15-1940.  

8. Elsie Bernice Grindstaff born 09-12-1941 married Ralph Berry born 3-26-1941 on 1-30-1960.  

9.  Norma Jean Grindstaff born 9-12-1943 married Howard Joseph Bentley born 11-17-1938 on 9-23-1961.

10. James Burl born 12-21-1945 married Reva Jean Story born 5-10-1947 on 8-13-1965.  

*If you have any questions or additional information:  Feel free to email me at GrindstaffKoonFamilyHistory@gmail.com

Ancestors of Claude Grindstaff

Ancestors of Claude Grindstaff

1. Biebold Crantzdorf b.1520
2. Hans Crantzdorf Sr. b.1550
3. Hans Crantzdorf Jr. b.1575
4. Hans Nichel Crantzdorf b. about 1600
5. Johann Daniel Crantzdorf b.1625 (In Zwienbrucken, Germany)
6. Dietrict Crantzdorf/Grindstaff b.about 1650
7. Johann Nichel Grindstaff b.1688 (In Zwiebrucken, Germany)
8. Johann Michael Grindstaff b. October 3, 1728 (In Zwiebrucken, Germany)
9. Isaac Grindstaff b. December of 1754
10. Henry Grindstaff b.1790
11. Isaac Grindstaff b. about 1820
12. Stephen Grindstaff b. August 18, 1855
13. Claude Grindstaff b. March 4, 1897

(6) Dietrich Crantsdorf (Krnatzdorf) 
Dietrich Crantsdorf (Krnatzdorf) was born before 1650 and died before 1714.  As was often the case with immigrants whose names were unusual or difficult to pronounce, the family's name was simplified to Grindstaff.  The children of Dietrich Crantsdorf were:
1. Johannes who married Anna Dorothea.
2. Philp who married Magdalina Gros. about 1713.
3. Johann Bartholomaeus who married Maria Magdelena Heussler in Germany.  His family as well as that of his brother Johann Nichols with their wives and families arrived on the ship Thistle at Philadelphia, P.A. on September 9, 1738.  He died before September 17, 1752 in York County, P.A.
4. Johann Nichel 

(7) Johann Nichel Grindstaff
Born in Germany about 1688.  He married Barbara ? in Hornbach, Germany in October or November of 1714.  Their children were:
1. Anna Catherine baptized 7-10-1715
2. Anna Rosina baptized at the end of July, 1719
3. Johann Michael Grindstaff

(8) Johann Michael Grindstaff
He was baptized 10-3-1728.  (Johann) Michael married Catherine ? it is said in York County, P.A. before May of 1773.  He had purchased land in Tyron County, N.C.

Their children were:
1. Susannah who married Joseph Rainbolt
2. Catherine who married Micahel Gabbard.
3. Nicholas b. about 1745 who married Catherine ? and moved to the Watauga Settlement (present day Carter County, Tenn.)
4. Isaac b. about 1754, who may have married twice (wives names unknown).  He moved to Carter County Tenn. about 1787 then to Burke County, N.C. in 1790.
5. Michael b. 1-5-1754 -1833 wife unknown
6. Jacob (1765-1844) married Susannah Newton.
7. Adam b. about 1760 who married Jane ?.

The following sons of Michael and Catherine Grindstaff served in the Revolution, their records being filed either in N.C. or in Kentucky.  Nicholas, Isaac, Michael, Jacob, and Adam.

(9) Isaac Grindstaff 
Is to be found in Burke County, North Carolina Census of 1790 thru 1820.  These records suggest that he had 7 children by his first wife.  The 1810 Census reveals a younger second wife.  We do not have any names of these ladies.  The children of the first wife are:
1. A male b. 1778.
2. Isaac Jr. b, 06/14/1779 married Sally hart and Prudence Ledford.  
3. Sally b. 1782 married George Hunsaker.  
4. Mary b. 1785 married Lowrance Effler(b. about 1787 in Prussia (Germany) to father Michael Effler.  
5. Margaret Jane (b. 1787) married Ruben Woody Moody. 
6. Henry b. 1789 married Cynthia Penland.  This is my Ancestors.  Died 1860/70 Cynthia married 1789/1808/1860. 
7. Arbella C born 1790 married Stephen Pittman.
8. Amelia b. 179?.  

(10) Henry Grindstaff and Cynthia Penland
Henry Grindstaff and Cynthia Penland were married about 1808 and are found in the 1820 Burke County N.C. Census with 2 male and 3 female children.  By 1840 five more sons and two daughters had been added.  
Their children were:
1. A male born 1810 - 1820.
2.Margaret born 1810 - 1820 married Henry Effler.
3. Isaac born (1816 - 05/1900) married Sarah Hoilman.
4. Keziah born 11-18-1814 married Rev. Thomas Stephen Willis.
5. Zelphia born 06/02/1818 married David M. Willis. 
6. Henry (fighting Henry) born 03/20/1826.  He married Mary Bedie Buchanan.
7. Martha born 1829 married David Willis.
8. Cynthia born 1830 who married Thomas Willis.
9. Jobe born about 1829 married Susan WIlson.
10. Loviado born 1837 married Mahalah.

(11) Isaac Grindstaff and Sarah Hoilman
Isaac Grindstaff and Sarah Hoilman was born in 1820.  He married Sarah Hoilman who was born in 1818.  There children were:
1. Cynthia Grindstaff was born about 1845.
2. Kizziah was born about 1847.
3. Mary was born about 1849.
4. Henry was born about 1852.
5. Stephen was born August 18, 1855 in Yancy County, N.C. 1855-1930. This is our ancestors.
6. Elmira was born about 1857.
7. Joseph was born about 1859.
8. Jobe was born about 1861.
9. Sarah W. was born in Snow Creek in Mitchell County, N.C. in 1869.  Stephen T.'s father passed away on May 10, 1900 in Snow Creek, N.C. in MItchell County at the age of 80.  1820-1900.  Stephen T.'s mother, Sarah Hoilman Grindstaff passed away on December 15, 1910 in Mitchell County, N.C. at the age of 92.  1818-1910.

(12) Stephen Grindstaff 
Stephen Grindstaff was born on August 18, 1855 in Yancy County, N.C.   His parents were Sarah Hoilman age 37 and Isaac Grindstaff, age 35.  Stephen married Evaline Pritcher in Mitchell County, N.C.  Their children were as follows: 
1.Isaac born April 18, 1875 who married Zelphia (b. 01/30/1954-August 9, 1957) - [their children were: 1Lula 2Raymond  3Buna 4 Champ  5Charlsie 6Woodrow 7Florence 8Howard.]  
2. Berna Vesta 02/24/1881 - 10/03/1937. She died in Troy, Idaho at the age of 56.  She married Milton Ashley. (child 1Juanita).
3.Charlie Jefferson b.10/09/1882.  He married Ester ? and they had a daughter named Buna who was murdered. They had daughters Lora and Flora also, and a son named Leonard.
4.Harriet b. in 1884.  She married Jim Ashley.  They had a son, John Ashley.
5. Flemming Samuel b. July 20, 1885.  He married Mattie Lou Tolley born November 4, 1898 died January 4, 1971.  Flem died May 8, 1961.  There children were Ruth, Hazel, Ratha, Blondie, Lacy, Margie, Corbie, Margie, and Uleen.
6. Flora b. January 2, 1891 - d. January 16, 1972 married John Greer.  John was b. February 8, 1890 - d. February 23, 1974.  John and Flora did not have any children of their own, but they raised 2 of John's brothers children, Martha and Ernest. 
7. Buena b. 1892.
8. Deppie Jane b.April 7, 1894.  She died 1981. She married Raymond Huges.  There children were Voncille, Pauline, Willie, and Guy.
9. Washington b.April 8, 1896.  He married America Carpernter.  Their children were David and Elizabeth.  He later married Florence Cornett.
10. Claude b. on March 4, 1897.  He married Maggie Sue Koon b. October 20, 1909.  This is my mother.  
11. Etta was b. September 15, 1900 and died November 14, 1947.  She married David Johnson born September 3, 1891 and died October 30, 1973.  Their children were James, Silas, Judy, Bob, Mary, Jessie, Earl, Boyd, Paul, Henry, Ted, and Juanita.
12. Albert b. March 24, 1903 married Florence Dula.  They had no children of their own, but they adopted a boy named Tommy.

Stephen, grandaughter Juanita and Evaline Grindstaff

Extra Findings

According to Census: In 1880 Stephen and Evaline lived in the Snow Creek section of Mitchell County, N.C.  In 1900 they lived in Snow Creek, Mitchell County.  In 1910 they still lived in Mitchell County.  In 1920 they lived in Cranberry township of Avery County, N.C.  In 1930 they lived in Linville township.  The 1910 Census for Mitchell County listed Stephen Grindstaff age 54, as a farmer.  Evaline 48.  Flora was 21, Flemmins 23, Deppie 21, Washington 14, Etta 12, Claude 9, and Albert 6.  Isaac 25, and Harriet 26 had already left home.
Stephen and Evaline were first cousins.
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Copy of Newspaper Clipping from 1935.
(Claude's Niece)
Boonford, N.C. June 27, 1935.  Mrs. Buna Teague, 23, and Winfield S. Garland, 73, were found shot to death about 10 o'clock last night at the Garland home at Boonford in Yancy County, near the Mitchell County line.
An inquest was held last night under the barn shed on the Garland farm where the bodies were found and the jury returned the verdict that the fatal shots were fired by parties unknown.  Officers are following clues, which, it is understood, may lead to the central part of the state.
Odus Buchanan, Yancy County youth, was taken into custody this morning as a material witness.  It is understood that he heard threats made by the suspect, whose name was not disclosed. 
The bodies were found by Charlie Grindstaff, father of the murdered woman and Will Wyatt. Mr. Grindstaff is a renter on the Garland farm. Mr. Garland and Mrs. TEague left the Grindstaff home to go milk. When they failed to return after a reasonable time, Mr. Grindstaff became alarmed and began to search for them. Failing to find them, he enlisted the aid of Mr. Wyatt and the two men discovered the bodies under the shed. 
More than $6,000 in cash was found on the body of Mr. garland, indicating that robbery was not the motive. Three shots were heard about 7 o'clock last night in the vicinity of the farm by Dewitt Howell. Howell was passing along a highway about 500 yards from the barn and said he heard 2 shots, followed by a woman's scream, and then he heard a third shot. He said he attached no special significance to the shots at the time.
Mr. Garland was shot through the head, the bullet entering at the nose and severing the spinal cord as it came out the back of his neck. Mrs. Teague was shot through the brain, the bullet entering the head near the left ear and coming out the right ear. Both were believed to have been killed instantly. Mrs. Teague is survived by her parents, her husband, a brother and 2 sons. Buna Teague born 6-3-1914 in Madison County, N.C. was the daughter of Charlie and Ester Grindstaff of Mitchell County census. 
In the 1930 census we find Charlie living in Snow creek in Mitchell County, North Carolina. Charlie didn't go to school so he wasn't able to read or write. He was a farmer, married to Ester Bastian. They had one son Lenard, 12, and one daughter, Flora, 7, living with them. Aparently Buna had already left home. I found later information about another daughter named Lola Grindstaff.
Winfield Garland and Mrs. Buna Grindstaff Teague (aged 23 and apparently living with him) were shot from ambush. Garland had six thousand dollars in cash on him, so robbery was not the motive. Notes in my file from a neighbor states that Winfred's wife was named Laura, an invalid and Mrs. Teague (whose husband Carl was in prison at the time) had been hired as a cook and stayed on after Laura's death. Josh McCoury (Garland's son-in-law) and another person were later indicted for the murder (Fall 1935). But there was no trial. The other person reportedly made a death bed confession as the true motive for the killing( which was related to Mrs. Teague's pregnancy).
--------------
The obituary for Fred (Junior) Johnson from the Avery Journal in Newland North Carolina.
(Claude's brother, Isaac's grandson)
Fred Johnson Jr. 74 of Newland North Carolina went to his eternal home on Wednesday, January 5, 2011.
Junior was a native of Avery County and was born on August 16, 1936 to Fred and Florence Grindstaff Johnson.  Junior was one of a kind, a friend to everyone.  He was employed until the time of his death at Avery True Value Hardware, where he was loved and adored as family.  He was proud to be an American and always flew his flag with honor. He loved his family with an unfailing love until the Lord Jesus called him home.  His love for the outdoors has been passed on to many who he came into contact with.  He was a member of the Gold Prospectors Association which never made him rich but a gleam in his eye when he saw (color).  
He was a student of the Holy Bible and could converse with "the best of them" in knowledge of Gods word and expressed his knowledge by teaching Sunday School.  Bible studies were always vocal with a seasoned experience of what Zgod had done in his life.
Junior is survived by his sister Carolyn Pyatte and her husband Kenneth, he is also survived by nine nephews and their wives, two nieces and their husbands and many great nephews and nieces.  Junior is the grandson of Isaac and Zelphia Grindstaff.
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The children and grandchildren of Flenn and Mattie Grindstaff. 1. Ruth born in 1917, died 10-18-1976, married Ernest Cole. Their children were 1. Alverta born 1936, married Edward Roach. She had Denise and Lorrie. Denise married Douglas Kay in 1981. She had one child a boy. Lorrie married Bill Swagger and had 2 daughters Selina and a daughter buried in North Carolina cemetary. 2. Marlin married Darlene. They had 2 adopted children. Melvin married Betty had 1 adopted son. He married Candy and had 2 boys, Jonathan and Cristopher. 2. Hazel born 1919 died 4-30-1960. married Frank Cole. Their children were Densel born 1936 married Phillus, had 2 children, Bruce and Deana. Bruce married Norma? Norma had 3 kids, 2 girls and 1 boy. Densel's 2nd wife was Dottie? His 3rd wife was Betty? Deana married ? Brown. Rathy married Catherine (Kay)? born 9-2-1926, died 1-4-1964. Their children were Ray Gary married Barbara? Had 3 children and one stepchild. Rena Sue married Charles Roy Wallace. Anna May married John Hinkle and had 2 children Katie and Shawn. Lisa kay married John George and had 1 child Kayla. John married several times. Atheny Lee Cole married Merle Pearson they met at a party. Their children were Kim Marie born 8-20-1983 married Peter Mark Harris and had 1 girl. Jeff Lynn married Terri Dawn? They had 3 children. Vickie R. born 6-8-1984 married Brian L. Burkeholder and had 3 children. Blondie married Mallard Hollman from Burnsville. Margie married Thomas Beard and they had 2 sons. Lacey born 5-17-1926 - 9-13-1948. Lacey never married. He was engaged when he got killed in a car wreck. Corbit Lee born 3-20-1933 married Margie Wood born 1936 in 1956. Their children were Rosana Lee born 6-14-1975 married Howard George. They had one child Tim Lee. Douglas Leroy born 3-11-1958 married Victoria Costea 8-21-1982. They had 3 children, Angela and twin boys Brice and Broch. Lavonia Jean Cole daughter of Ruth and Ernest Cole was born 3-26-1935 - 3-26-1935. 
Some of the ancestors in the census in the 1870 census for Mirchell County, North Carolina there is Isaac Grindstaff who is 56 years old and is a farmer. His wife Sarah was 46 years old. Cynthia 25, Kizziah 23, Mary 21, Henry 18, Stephen 15, Elmira 13, Joseph 11, Jobe 9, Sarah W.L.
In the 1870 census for Mitchell County, North Carolina. There is Henry Grindstaff (Fighting Henry) age 51, born in Burke County and he is a farmer. Biddy his wife 41 born in Burke County. Isaac 18 born in Yancy County. William 16 born in Yancy County. Clarissa 13 born in Yancy county. Eveline 12 born in Yancy co. Matilda 10 born in Yancy County. John 8 born in Mitchell county. Henry G 2 born in Mitchell Co. in the 1880 census for Mitchell County we find Henry at age 57. Biddy at 51, clarissa 24(in school) Matilda 21 Jane 12(in school) Mary 7, John 18(in school) Mack 15(in school) Gilbert 11(in school). Reuben 9(in school) In the 1880 census for Mitchell County Stephen Grindstaff was 23 years old and a farmer. evaline was 21 and his wife. In the 1880 census for Mitchell County Isaac Grindstaff was 64, sarah was 61, Cynthia was 30, Henry was 28, Kizziah was 25, Joseph was 22, Elmira was 20, Jobe was 18 and Sarah was 11 and a granddaughter.
In the 1900 census for Linville Township we find Stephen Grindstaff 50 years old, Evelyn his wife 45, Isaac 19, charlie 17, Flemmming 14, Flora 8, depie 6, Wash 4, Etter 2. (claude was not included, he should have been 3 years old then). We find James Ashley as head of house age 24 and his wife Harriet at age 19. We find Milton Ashley who later married Buna grindstaff still at home with his parent at age 26. 
In the 1910 census for Linville Township in North Carolina we find Stephen grindstaff at age 54. Evaline his wife age 48, Flora 21, Flemming 23, Deppie 17, Washington 14, Etta 12, claude 9 and Albert 6.
In the 1930 census for Linville Township Avery County North Carolina we find Stephen Grindstaff at 72 and Evaline at 67 and Albert is still at home at age 25.
In the 1930 census for Linville Township in Avery County North Carolina we find Flen Grindstaff as head of household at age 45, Mattie, wife at age 32, Ruth 13, Hazel 12, Ratha 7, Blondie 6, Lacey 4, and Margie 2.
In the 1930 census for Roaring Creek Township in Avery County North Carolina. We find Claude Grindstaff as head of house at age 28. Maggie his wife at age 20 and Rena his daughter at 1 6/12. In the 1940 census for LInville township in avery county north carolina we find claude grindstaff as head of house at 38 years old. Maggie as his wife at 30, Reaney Eat 11, Leila M. at 9, cecil at 6, mildred at 3 and clarence at 1. 
in the 1940 census for linville township in avery county norht carlina we find albert grindstaff at age 33. as head of house and his wife florence at age 19. in the 1940 census for linville township in avery county north carolina we find isaac grindstaff at age 60 as head of house. his wife zelphia at the age of?. Howard at the age 23. charlcie at the age of 14 and change at the age of 12.
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1930 Census
In the 1930 census for Linville in Avery County North Carolina we find Raymond Hughes age 40. He never attended school but, he could read and write. His wife Deppie Grindstaff Hughes was 37 years old, She never went to school either but she was able to read and write. Their children were Willie age 10, Guy age 6, Lasha age 4, and Vonseil age 2. They later had a daughter named Pauline. Deppie Grindstaff was born 4/7/1894-1981. She married Raymond Hughes. Their children were Willie who married Mack Buchanan and had Janet, Roger, Terry, Pamela, Elaine, and Steve. Guy married Barbara Goins. Vonseil married Ray Mckiney. Lasha married Louis Hall, Pauline married ? Raymond Hughes was born 9/26/1899. Died 1/8/1970 in North Carolina, he was a private in company I 148 infintry division WW1.
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Melton Jerome Ashley and Buna Grindstaff.
Buna Grindstaff married Melton Jerome Ashley, had 2 sons Elmer and Floyd both died young.  They had Janita mattied Merit Tolley and one son Bruce.
Melton Ashley at the age of 16, left the grain field in the midwest he traveled as a hobo riding the rails.  For his spending money he old a calf for $3.50 to WIley  Johnson.  He caught a train at the Linville Falls.  At the age of 25 he came back to Avery County where he carried on a record courtship.  He met his wife on a Thursday and married her on the next Thursday.  Buna and her sister Harriet were supposedly going to visit friends .  Harriet was on the horse waiting for Buna.   When Harriets husband Jim jumped on the horse, waived said, 'So long folks" and left Buna and Melton standing there complete strangers.  In another instance Melton outwitted his opponant and left another crowd amazed.  It seemed for soem reason an officer of the law was tracking Melton down to summon him as a witness where a man was pushed overboard at sea on the way back from South America.  Melton was preparing to tak brothers Hugh, John, and Tom west with him.  Before going they auctioned off their belongings.  When Melton saw the lawman, he continued as if everything was normal.  Selling everything but a high spirited pony.  He paid a small boy to open the gate and he was ready to prove the pony had plenty of get up and go, so he mounted her and rode out of sight.  His brothers had arranged to meet him at a specified site and they were on their way , much to the amazement of the deputy and the crowd at the auction.)
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Stephen (Also seen spelled as Steven) Effler
A story found in a book called "Aunt Zonas Webb" written by Thomas C. Chapman as told to him by Arizona Hughes, a teacher in the mountains of North Carolina for 57 years.  1896-1953 a story that has fewer versions and has been told many times both in print and by word of mouth is the Steven Effler murder.  The version I have held to be closest to the truth is the one about the justice of the peaces dream.  My father was acquatined with this justice whose name was Josh Young.  The ensuring paragraphs give on of the more popular versions ,but sinve time has dulled my memory.  Im not sure if this is exactly the way my father told the story.  
This tragic story happened when I was a small girl.  Steven Effler and his wife lived in the region of Buck Creek Gap, on the McDowell County side just below the present underpass of the Blue Ridge Parkway. 
Josh Young was a Justice of the peace in Yancy County for many years during my fathers lifetime.  One night he had a horrible dream.  He dreamed that a beautiful young woman came running to him for help.  Her throat was covered with bruises and she was desperate with fright.  The dream was so vivid that Josh was awakened and had a difficult time returning to sleep, the same dream came back in every detail.  The next day Josh Young went to his neighbors, "Sandy Patton" and told him about the dream.  It seemed real that he felt compelled to tell someone.  Later in the afternon of the same day, both Young and Patton noticed a funeral possession making its way down the mountain past their farms.  They hadn't heard of anyone dying in the neighborhood, so as the possession approached they asked who had died.  The small group of mourners stopped to rest and told the story.  They said the coffin held the body of a young woman, Mrs. Steven Effler, who had suddenly died the past night.  They told how Effler the young husband had come to the neighbors during the middle of the night to tell them that his wife was very sick, and that he needed help, but upon returning to the Effler cabin they discovered the woman was dead.  Her body was still warm, and her little baby was asleep beside of her.  
The neighbors sent a messanger to the other side of the mountain to tell the parents of the young wife, and to ask them to have a grave ready in the family cemetary.  It was also told that the young husband wouldn't let anyone touch the body.  He insisted on preparing her for burial himself. 
As the story goes Young was thinking of his dream.  He had never see Mrs. Effler; could it be, that she was the young woman who came to him in that dream?  With these thoughts in mind Young asked if the body had been examined by a doctor.  The neighbor answered that it had not.  So over protest of the husband and neighbor Josh Young, using his authority as Justice of the peace, he demanded to review the body.
The coffin was taken into Patton's house.  When it was opened Josh Young was amazed to see the same young woman who had appeared to him in a dream.  He ordered that a doctor be brought from Burnsville, for they had crossed into Yancy County for the burial.  Effler was in a rage, but there was nothing he could do.  The doctor arrived and made a rapid examination; his conclusion was that the woman had died of natural causes.  Effler, was triumphant, but Josh Young was not satisfied.  He told the husband and mourners that an examination would have to be made by a doctor from McDowell County where the death occured.  He sent word to Marion and Doctor Butt and the Sheriff from McDowell County came.  Doctor Butt had the body removed from the coffin and placed on a table.  He made a complete examination; whereupon he announced that Mrs. Effler had died from strangulation and also her neck had been broken.
The sheriff arrested the husband and took him to Marion to Jail; however the husband continued to declare his innocence. 
The following day the sheriff and a group of men went to the Effler cabin to look for some evidence of violence.  None could be found and they were about to leave when one of the men commented about how loose some of the floor boards were.  It was also pointed out that the loose boards were clean and unworn while the boards adjoining were worn and discolored from use.  They turned the boards over and they were stained with blood.
When Effler was confronted with this evidence he confessed.  He told how he had quarreled with his wife and while in a rage he had knocked her to the floor and twisted a cloth around her throat.  He twisted the cloth until her neck was broke and blood gushed from her mouth and nose onto the floor.  he was able to place his wife in bed and fool his neighbors but in his haste he hadnt taken the time to nail the boards to the floor.
The jury brough in a verdict of guilty and Steven Effler was hung.  Although the trial was held in mid June a storm came and snow was reported to have fallen on many of the higher parts of the mountains.
The wife of Steven Effler was Margaret (Peggy) Grindstaff Effler.  She was the daughter of Joseph Grindstaff who married Martha Rector.  Joseph was the brother of Isaac Grindstaff who married Sarah Hoilman and was the parents of Stephen Grindstaff who married Evaline Pritchard Grindstaff.
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Confession of Stephen G. Effler
As I am condemed to be hanged and soon must appear before my God, I think it nothing but right and justice from various rumors and reports that have gone out throughout the country to give the public a sketch of my life and crime which I am guilty of.  I was born in Cherokee Co., Tenn.  I left there when I was a small child and was brought to Mitchel Co., N.C. at the age of (10) and lived there until about one month before I was put in jail.  I lived in McDowell when arrested for the crime.  I was raised by Henry Effler and Peggy Effler, my grandfather and grandmother, and my mother Polly Effler as they lived together.  I was raised by poor honest uneducated parents.  Though unlearned as they were, they always gave me good advice.  If only I had taken this advice I would not have been here today, a doomed man.  I have never tried to get any person into any difficulty with me, though I was always a rude rattling boy, though I never committed any other crime but this one I stand charged with of which I am guilty.  I have been in jail this four hundred and ninety two (492) days.
I have learned since I have been in jail in the way of education more than any of my people, except one aunt, Martha Effler.  I was married to Margaret Grindstaff about the first of March 1881, in the nineteenth year.  She was my cousin.  I never went to see my wife but twice until we were married, but I always knew her to be a good christian woman.  We lived with my grandfather about one year after we were married and then moved to ourselves about one mile from my grandfathers in Yancy Co.  We lived together there about two months and then moved back to my grandfathers and stayed there until we moved to McDowell County.  I would sometimes go off and when I came back I would tell my wife that I had been off after other women, she would laugh and say she did not care.  She did not believe it.  I just told her to see what she would say.  The great misfortune is that I never loved my wifre before I married her, neither could I learn to love her.  She was too near akin.  I would go off and stay and come back to see if I could learn to love her, but I never could.  The last trip I took was to Flagpond, Tenn. to a Baptist Association about sixty miles from home.  I stayed about one week.  I went off before to Madison County, N.C. and got a job of work from Cling Ganey and made him three thousand rails.  I was gone that trip about one month.  My wife stayed with my grandfather on all these trips except when I went to Flagpond.  This time she went to her fathers and stayed.  Now in all my travels I have wished that I had never married her, I have stopped when going to my work and wished that I never married her, would not have begruged thousands of dollars that I had not thought she was kind to me only at times when I would get to plagering her and she would get mad and try to scratch herself.  We have one child named Alfred Erwin Effler now about two years old.  Oh may he be trained up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord.  I will now tell you about how the witnesses swore truth and who swore false.  (Here he accused some half dozen witnesses of false swearing)  I think the balance of the wirnesses against me swore the truth so far as they knew.  I told false myself in this case to shun the law.  I will now tell you why I killed my wife and how I killed her.  I could not love her and the devil's temptation was so great I did not want to live with her any longer, and on the 6 day of January 1881 Ed SOwers had been to Marion and came in hearing of my house and hollered he was afraid of my dog.  I went out and asked him to come in.  He said he was very tired.  I asked him to eat supper and he sat down and ate supper and stayed about one hour.  The devil's temptation came upon me.  My wife went to bed about one half hour before I did.  I had worked hard that day and lay down on a sheep skin before the fire and rested.  It seemed the devil had shown me a plan how to get rid of my wife, so I could go back and live with my grandfather.  So I took this plan after lying on the sheep skin about half and hour I got up and got me a white strip of cloth about a foot long and went to bed with my wife where she was lying with her face to the wall.  I lay there about one hour studying how to committ the deed at last.  I ran the cloth around her neck after the devil had tempted me so great it seemed like he told me I could get out of it if I did do it.  I turned her over and sorta twisted the cloth around her neck.  Then I put my knees against her back and pulled it and she sprung out of the bed with me on the floor.  We fell among some benches.  There I help her by cloth around the neck until I found she was dead.  She died without a struggle, and way after I found she was dead I picked her up and laid her on the bed.  Then I ran to the fire place and said Lord take mercy on me, what made me do this.  What will become of me now.  Then I got my shoes and ran to my grandfathers and as I went I fixed up a tale to tell them.  When I got in sight of my grandfathers I hollered and told them my wife was dead, and I caught myself and told them that she had a hurting in her head and was dying, then one of my aunts and two of my cousins come back with me home.  Also, Ed Sowers come with us.  I told them the same tale I told my grandfather.  When we got back my wife was laying just as I had left her.  My people have been accused of knowing about the case or its being made known to them, but they are clear of the charge, they know nothing of it neither do they know to this day how it was or why it was.  My wife was a good religious woman and I believe that she is gone to heaven.  She was so easy to kill I am bound to believe it was astored for her to go that way and that she is in heaven today.  Had I been educated this deed would not have been committed, and today I might not have been... my mother told me about two weeks before I was married not to marry.  Oh that I had taken her advice.  I may add more to this, if not this is the end.

*If you have any questions or additional information:  Feel free to email me at GrindstaffKoonFamilyHistory@gmail.com