The Early Preas Family

*** If you would like to contribute any information, stories, pictures, or anything of interest to the Preas Family

As to the Origin of the Preas Family

When one researches the name “Preas” on the Internet or in the Library, you will find the following:

Ap Rees – Also Welsh, meaning “son of Rees”. I show this because, if you say it fast enough, it sounds like “A Prees”.

It is very possible that our Family came from Shropshire, England. Here is some Information concerning Shropshire: “The area now considered Shropshire was for a long time considered within Wales and was the eastern part of the Kingdom of Powys; known in Welsh poetry as the Paradise of Powys. It was annexed to Mercia by King Offa in the eighth century, at which time he built two significant dykes there to defend his territory against the Welsh or at least demarcate it. In subsequent centuries, the area suffered repeated Danish invasion, and fortresses were built at Bridgnorth and Chirbury.”

The earliest records such as land deeds, census records, civil suits, and inventories show the Preas name spelled in different ways due to the fact these family members were unable to write and were dependent on the Census taker or the legal person to write and spell it correctly. In this manner, the name would be spelled as it sounded. The following are the different spellings I have found: Preas, Preast, Preest, Prees, Priest, Pries, Preis, and Preece.

Even today, if I pronounce my name as I was taught, it would sound like “Preece”, but many people hear a “t” at the end of it and their mind makes it “Priest or Preast”. I have now decided to say my name in way so that it would rhyme with “Breeze or Please”.

So, you can see the confusion and the reason why there are so many variations of the spelling of Preas. And, since we have no definitive proof, we do not know the original and proper spelling of the Preas name.

Preas - Earliest American Settlers

At the time of this writing, we have no absolute, set in concrete, proof of where the first Preas Settlers came from or the exact date of their arrival in America. But, based on educated guesses from documents and research, the Preas Family probably arrived here from one of the English speaking countries of the United Kingdom (England).

Nothing in all of the earliest documents found concerning Preas Family members have we found one speaking anything but English. The only caveat to this statement is that it looks like none of them could write because every early document shows the family member signing a “X” or mark for their name and allowing someone else to enter their name in full next to it.

We may not know the exact date when the Preas Family arrived in America but I feel comfortable stating that it was before 1763. (Please look at #5 below this paragraph, 1762). The earliest records that other family researchers and I have found points to our arrival in the State of Maryland. Again, we don’t have ironclad proof that some of the following pertains to our family members but the time lines and names match. The following information shows what has been found concerning our possible Maryland roots. (George Ely Russell found most of this information)

6. 1767 - Henry Priest - List of persons reporting estrays (stray livestock found), Frederick County, Md.: Henry Priest, 14 May 1767.

[F. Edward Wright, "Early lists of Frederick Countians 1765-1775" (1986), p. 7].

7. 1771 - Henry Priest - Frederick County, November Court 1771: William Lodge vs. Henry Priest. "for words spoken." "Withdrawn by

8. 1772 - Henry and Elizabeth Priest - Grand jury presentments, 22 August 1771: William, John, and Henry O'Neale for assaulting Henry

and Elizabeth Priest, by information of Henry Priest. [page 191] Frederick County Court Minutes, MSA]

9. 1776 - 20 Aug 1776, (Maryland) will of Thomas Fields, of Loudoun, now a soldier in Capt Thomas Watts Company, legatees: 1/2 of

his estate to Eleanor Priest, his sister, she is wife of William Priest, her legacy is not to be under the direction of her husband ; other legatees

are his nephews, Thomas Fields and John Fields, sons of his brothers, William and John Fields.

10. 1778 – Henry Preast - Maryland - Revolution Records of Maryland – Montgomery County, Maryland

11. 1780 – Henry Priest - List of Lower Battalion of Montgomery County Militia, as returned by Col. John Murdock, 15 July 1780: Capt.

William Bailey's 1st Company: Privates, Class No. 4: Henry Priest. [Clement & Wright, Md. Militia in the Revolutionary War (1987),

p. 204] *4th class indicates that these were the fourth to be called up for service, after the first three classes were activated.

12. 1780 – William Priest - List of Middle Battalion of Montgomery County, with the different classes, as returned by

Col. Archibald Orme, 15 July 1780: 1st Company, Capt. John Ray. Class No. 5: Wm. Priest. (Clements & Wright, Md. Militia in the

Rev. War (1987), p. 201) Another ..... Priest, in Class. No. 8, same company. (Ibid.)

13. 1782 – William Priest, Private, Lt. Edmond Compton, Ensign Wm. Hanson, 3rd Company, 4th Battalion, Maryland Line. 1782 pay roll:

14. 1783 – William Priest, Corporal, Md. Line. (p. 551) Served between 1 Jan. 1783 and 15 Nov. 1783. Discharged 29 Nov. 1783.

15. 1783 – William Priest, Sgt., Lt. Bonham's Company, Northern Detachment, Maryland Line, 1783. (Ibid., p. 506

There is also a story from some Preas Family members in Virginia that, some of the land that was taken from Maryland for the creation of the District of Columbia (Washington D.C.), was once owned by the Preas Family. From the records above, one has to wonder if there is some truth to this. The District of Columbia was ceded from Maryland in 1790 under the ‘Residence Act of 1790, officially titled, “An Act for establishing the temporary and permanent seat of the Government of the United States”, is a United States federal law that settled the question of locating the capital of the United States, selecting a site along the Potomac River.’ The Preas Family arrived in Bedford County, Virginia in the 1788-1789 time frame.

The one FACT from the above information concerns #5 where, in King George’s Rock Creek Parish, Prince George’s (later Mongomery) Co., Md., the birth of Thomas Preece was registered and the date given was 22 February 1763. In the Bedford County, Virginia Register of Deaths, it distinctly lists the EXACT age of Thomas at the time of his death on 20 February 1853 – 89 years 11 months 28 days and that he was born in Maryland. This would make his birth date match EXACTLY that which was given in the registry of the King George’s Rock Creek Parish, Prince George’s County, Maryland. To me, that is pretty convincing proof that this portion of the list is our Family line.

Again, being that this is the only evidence that we find as a connection to the Preas Family the rest could be considered as nothing but circumstantial evidence and hypothesis based on the findings and time lines. One thing is for sure, nothing has been found on a “Henry and Elizabeth Priest (Prees)” or other family names in Maryland after 1780. But, Henry and Elizabeth Priest do show up in Bedford County, Virginia in the late 1780’s and this is where our “known” Family history begins.

Preas - Early Virginia Settlers

On 8 August 1787, a William Preast purchased 500 acres of land that border on both sides of Bore Auger Creek and a south branch of Goose Creek in Bedford County, Virginia for 2 pounds and 10 shillings.

Even though record # 5 [on Pg 2] shows that a William Preece was born to Henry Sr. and Elizabeth Preece, we are not sure if this is the same person who purchased the land in Bedford County, Virginia. This could be a brother of Henry “Preece” Sr. based on the fact that there is no mention of the son “William” after the family arrives in Virginia. One thing is known; this William did not stay and settle in Virginia. All of William’s legal dealings were done by a power of attorney given to George Sinclair because William was living in South Carolina at this time.

It appears Henry Preas Sr., with wife Elizabeth and family, arrived in Bedford County, Virginia sometime in 1788 –1789 with their children: Henry Jr., Thomas, Joseph, Polly, Rebecca, Patsey, Elizabeth (Betsy), Sally, Amy, Nancy, and Margaret (Peggy). Henry Preas Sr. either died on the way to Virginia or just after their arrival. On 26 October 1789 an “Inventory and Appraisement” was returned on the property of Henry Preas Sr. and his wife’s (Elizabeth) signature was placed on the document. The following is the transcribed version of the document.

Priest, Henry An Inventory of the Estate of Henry Priest deceased _______Inventory

At a court held for Bedford County the 26^th day of October 1789 ------This Inventory & appraisement of the Estate of Henry Priest Deceased

**A note concerning this document – 2 Bibles and some books are listed and it does not have a “Mark – X” next to Elizabeth’s signature, but it looks to me that the person who signed her name is the same person who wrote the entire document. Maybe one or more of their children could read and write; we just don’t know.**

The above document was returned on 26 October 1789. Two days later, on 28 October 1789, “William Preast of South Carolina gave Power of Attorney to George Sinkler (Sinclair) to convey 2 tracts of land to Elizabeth Preast.”

On 22 Feb 1790 a Land Grant was issued – “George Sinclair, attorney for William Preas, Sells 500 acres on bore Auger Creek to Elizabeth Preas, of Bedford County, VA, "doth covenant for him and his heirs". Deed Book 8, p. 271 - [Below is a transcribed version of the full document].

William Preast Deeded Land to Elizabeth Preast 1789-1790

William Preast living in South Carolina – Elizabeth Preast living in Bedford County, Virginia

Preast To ( ) Sinkler - State of South Carolina

Newberry County } Know all men by those presents that I William Preast of the State of South Carolina for (diverss) good. Causes to me hereunto moving do make ordain constitute and appoint my Trusty friend George Sinkler of the County of Bedford State of Virginia my true and lawful attorney to act and do for me in my name in an concerning the conveyance of two certain tracts of land lying in said county of Bedford (for which William Callaway has given his obligation for the performance of titles to William Patterson) and I do by these presents constitute and appoint the said George Sinkler as before mentioned to convey the said Tracts of land to Elizabeth Preast of the County of Bedford as witness my hand and seal this twenty ninth day of October 1789.

Thomas Preast

I do hereby certify that I saw William Preast ~ sign the above Power of Attorney in Testimony where of I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the seal. Seal of Office this 29^th day of Oct. 1789.

Ata a Court held for Bedford County the 22d day of February 1790 this power of attorney was exhibited in Court, where upon the same admitted to Record.

This Indenture made this 22d day of February One thousand seven hundred and ninety between George Sinclair of the County of Bedford Attorney for William Preast of the one part and Elizabeth Preast of the same County of the other part witnesseth that the sum of five shillings to him in hand paid by the said Elizabeth for the said William Preast hath given granted bargained sold & delivered and by in these presents doth give grant bargain sell alien ~ En fe of and confirm unto the said Elizabeth Preast and to her heirs and assigns forever one certain tract of land containing five hundred acres lying & being in the said County of Bedford on Boar Auger Creek ~ a south branch of Goose Creek and bounded as followeth to wit~

Beginning at a Small hickory on Walton and Bufords line thence along Bufords line South ten degrees East eighty six poles to a Spanish Oak, South twenty five degrees west twenty poles to a Spanish Oak, South fifteen degrees East forty six poles to a white oak south fifty six degrees west thirty poles to a Hickory, thence new lines south fifteen degrees west. Sixty six poles to a Spanish Oak South Sixty Six degrees East. One hundred and forty four poles to a red oak south thirty six degrees East one hundred and twenty poles to a small whit oak, North seventy eight degrees East Seventy four poles to pointers on Stiths line and along his line North 186 poles to a White Oak off south fifty two degrees west 4 poles to Talbots Corner white oak on his line North twenty five degrees west 104 poles to pointers ~ East 24 poles to a red oak north seven degrees east 216 ples cossing the Creek to a pine south 9 degrees west 152 poles to pointers on wattons line, thence South 44 & 34 poles to a pine s. 15 w 140 poles to a Beach. S & 6 W 54 poles to a red oak N 44 W 54 poles to the Beginning. To have and to hold the said land and premises to the s.d, Elizabeth Preast and to her heirs forever, and he the s.d George Sinclair in the behalf of the said William Preast doth covenant for him and his heirs that will warrant forever defend the s.d land and premises to the said Elizabeth Preast and to her heirs forever. I witness whereof the said George Sinclair hath hereunto set his hand and seal this day and above written.

Signed and delivered - In the presence of } George Sinclair (SS)

Memorandom that on the day and year within mention quiet and peacable possession of the within mentioned land and premices was made and given by George Sinclair unto Elizabeth Preast according to the form and effect of the within written deed - In presence of } George Sinclair (SS)

This Indenture together with the Memorandum of (Livery) of (leizen) thereon indorced was acknowledged by George Sinclair Attorney for William Preast party thento and ordered to be recorded.

Teste, Ja. Steptoe CBC

1. William Preas has moved on to South Carolina. We have tried to find William in the Census records and other documents of South Carolina but

2. It states that there were 2 tracts - one is of 365 acres, so the other must be 135 acres.

4. Power of Attorney was given to George Sinclair. Some members of our family believe

I consider Elizabeth Preas as the “Family Matriarch”. On the 1830 census she is listed as being 90 years or older. She would have been 50 or older when the family migrated to Bedford County, Virginia from Maryland. For the times that was considered elderly, few people saw their 70’s, very few lived into their 90’s. Can you imagine the history she witnessed before and after we became the United States? Not only that, she was able to see her family prosper and grow.

Before we get to the children, you need to know the following. The names Joseph, Thomas, John and Henry were common and often used family names for our early ancestors and some confusion has been caused concerning which “Henry”, “Thomas” or “Joseph” we might be looking at or discussing. Also, during these times, if there were more than one Thomas Preas in a community, even if from a different family unit, the eldest was known as Senior and the youngest as Junior (even though they were NOT father and son).

Of all the children, Henry Jr., his wife, and his children present us with the most unusual series of events and questions. From our research, Henry Jr. was the first to marry in Bedford County, Virginia. He married Rachel Jarred (or Jarrad) on 3 Dec 1791. He shows up in a variety of documents, witnessing to land and marriage agreements until his death in 1803. The cause of death is not known.

Henry Preas Jr. died some time before 16 September 1803. This is the date of his “Inventory & Appraisement” as shown in the following transcribed document.

We George Bandy, Sam Baker, and Samuel Baker Junr have upon oath appraised the personal estate of Henry Preast Decd. in current money and made a Return of the same to the Worshipful Court of Bedford Co.

As a bond held for Bedford County at the Courthouse the 26th of September 1803

This Inventory & Appraisment of the Estate of Henry Preast (?) was exhibitted in Court & ordered to be recorded

Retd. LORD - Reed Page - 12 Exd

1803: Bedford Co, VA Order Book 13, p.17, July Ct 1803. On the mo[tion] of Rachel Preast liberty is granted her for obtaining letters of adm[inistration] on the personal estate of Henry Preast, decd, who came into court and together with Jno Jarred Sr and Isaac Sinkler jrs her secy entry into bond in the sum of $00 cond acc to Law.

There also seems to have been some animosity and misgivings concerning Rachel and the Estate of Henry Preas Jr. as is seen in these two documents:

1805: Bedford Co, VA Order Book, p. 257, Sept Ct 1805. On the mo[tion] of Isaac Sinkler & John Jarred secys for the faithful administration of Rachel Trent formerly Rachel Preast on the Estate of Henry Preast Decd stating their apprehension of the said Rachel's improper administration ______. It is ordered that she be summoned and answer her complainant.

1805: Bedford Co, VA Order Book, p. 264, Sept Ct 1805. On the motion of Isaac Sinkler one of the securities for the faithful adm[inistration] of Rachel Trent formerly Rachel Preast the estate of Henry Preast Decd for counter _____. It is ordered that the said Decendents Estate be given up the said Adminx to John Jarred who is now Apointed Adm[inistrator] of the Dec'd Est. who made with & gave Secy acc to law.

Henry Preas Jr. and wife Rachel had four or five children (to be explained later): Ruth, Isreal, John, Thomas and, possibly, Alfred.

Henry Preas Jr. died some time around July 1803 and then his wife, Rachel, remarries in November of 1803 to a Nicholas Trent. This has many family members scratching their heads. For the Colonial era, this would have been scandalous due to the very short time of mourning before she remarried. Not only this, but she gave birth to a son, Alfred M. Trent, in March of 1804. If the date of birth is accurate, then the math would indicate one of five things, either 1. Alfred was really a son of Henry Preas Jr., 2. Rachel had an affair with Nicholas Trent, 3. Henry Preas Jr.’s estimated death date is incorrect, 4. the marriage date of Rachel and Nicholas Trent is in error or, 5. Alfred was born premature.

On the 1810 Census, a Nicholas Trent (this census only shows name of Head of Household) shows to be living in Bedford County, Virginia, has a wife and four children. Some time between 1810 and 1820, this Trent family moved to Breckenridge County, Kentucky (where Nicholas & Rachel Trent disappear after the 1850 Census). It is thought that they left the oldest male son of Henry Preas Jr., Thomas Jr., with the Matriarch of the family, Elizabeth, when they migrated to Kentucky. This seems to be substantiated due to a series of Census records showing a younger male living with Elizabeth until her death in 1831 and other documents seen below.

There is substantial proof that Nicholas & Rachel Trent had children of their own and that there may have been some animosity between mother, Rachel, and her Preas children, especially with Rachel’s son, John Preast. A researcher of the Trent Family, Emily Aulicino, found the Will of John Preast where he left Rachel Trent just “one dollar”. He died some time around May 1846. I do not have a copy of the Will but here is a transcribed portion sent by Emily Aulicino.

1846 - John Preist - Breckinridge Co., KY WB IV:25, 27 May 1846/June Term 1846, P. 143 -- Will of John Preist. Mother Rachel Trent one dollar, to James M. Preist 45 dollars, to Nephew Nathaniel M. Preist after taking out the above named amounts shall have all the remainder of my property of every description whatsoever. Nathaniel M. Priest, Exec.

I found Isreal Priest (son of Henry Jr. & Rachel) on the 1840 Census but nothing afterward. This may be due to him using another name, having moved, or died since the 1840 Census.

I don’t have much on their daughter Elizabeth (Ruth) Preas but from the following documents it looks like she left Breckinridge County, Kentucky and moved back to Bedford County, Virginia and married a William Sense (found spelled Sents, Sence, Sense).

1832 – Thomas Preas (JR.) - from William Sents, wife Ruth, of Franklin Cty, all their interest in estate of Elizabeth Preas, deceased 16 Jun 1832 -

1844 – Nancy Preas - Will Book 11, p. 579 - 29 August 1844 – (See document in full #9 Nancy Preas) - The Will of Nancy Preas of Bedford

1850 – 1850 Census – Bedford County, Virginia – shows William (49) and Ruthy Sense ( 52) living in Bedford County, Va. with three children –

1852 – Sally Preas - (Deceased) - Chancery Suit concerning disposition of her land, heard in County Court - filed 27 Dec 1852 - ended in Nov 1854

40 to 60 acres – (See this document in full under #5 Sally Preas) - This document mentions children of Henry: Thomas Preas

Jr., Ruth Sence (husb. William), and Isreal. It awards Thomas Preas, Jr., William Sence & Ruth, & Israel Preas receive $19.88 each.

1860 – 1860 Census – Bedford County, Virginia - Shows William Sence (58) and Ruth (60) living in Bedford County, Va. with one child, E. Preas

1865 – Thomas Preas (Jr.)- (Will Book 20-192 - will dated 22 Aug 1859, probated 27 Feb 1865)

"to 5 cousins (children of James T. & Polly Brown) Pamela Brown, Sarah Brown, Nancy Brown, Willie Brown & Thomas Brown. To Mary Jane Preas (wife of William H. Preas) to cousin, Patsy Pendleton (widow of Philip Pendleton). To cousin Rhoda Blankensip (widow of Andrew Blankenship). To sister, Ruth Sense, and her 4 children: Jane Wood, Samuel H. Sense, Joel Sense, and Elizabeth Sense. "

1870 – 1870 Census – Bedford County, Virginia – Shows Ruthy Sence (70) living by herself.

The names of Henry Jr. & Rachel Preast’s children comes from the deed when their son, Thomas Preas Jr., purchased land that was awarded to his three siblings in the division of land from the Estate of Elizabeth Preas (Matriarch). **Thomas Preas Jr. stayed with the matriarch, Elizabeth, when his Mother, Rachel Preas, and new husband, Nicholas Trent, moved to Breckinridge County, Kentucky.**

1831 – Elizabeth Preas, Israel Preas, & John Preas, all being grandchildren of Elizabeth Preas, deceased, and all of Breckenridge

County,KY, to Thomas Preas, all their interest in the Personal and real estate of said Elizabeth Preas, deceased. 12 Sept 1831 -

1832 - The following is from the land division of Elizabeth Preas [Matriarch]

Lott No. 7 ----- Drawn by Henry Preases heirs containing 62 acres and bounded as follow Vig. Beginning at a beach on a branch corner to the patent and to Lott No 4 & 6 thence along the patent line S 83 3/4 (degrees) W 57 3/4 poles to a large Red Oak Stump Corner(?) to the patent. Thence a new line S 6 (degrees) W 136 poles to a Poplar & Soracl(?) at the North Side of the mountain in the patent line thence S 66 3/4 (degrees) E 77 poles to a large Red oak on the mountain corner to the patent to Lott No. 6 thence along the line of said Lott N 172 1/2 poles to the beginning-----

A verification that Thomas Preas Jr. is, indeed, a son of Henry Sr. and Rachel Preas comes from a lawsuit against the estate of Sally Preas, sister of Henry Preas Sr. and who never married. [It can be read under “#5 Sally Preas”.]

1852 – Civil Suit on the Estate of Sally Preas - Children of Henry (deceased): Thomas Preas Jr., Ruth Sence (husb. William), & Isreal -

***Their brother, John Preas (Priest) of Breckinridge County, Kentucky, died in 1844 ***

Finding information on the Family that moved to Kentucky is very difficult. The last names are found spelled in different ways and the Census Records up to 1840 only show the name of the Head of Household, so we don’t know their children’s name. Continuing research is necessary.

After his brother, Henry Jr., died, Thomas became the eldest son. This may explain why he and his heirs seem to have been much more prosperous than Thomas’ siblings. The following shows different events we have found concerning Thomas Preas Sr.

1763 – Thomas Preece – born in Maryland – 22 February 1763 - Henry and Elizabeth Preece had children baptized at King George’s Rock

Creek Parish, Prince George’s County (later Montgomery County, now District of Columbia), 1762-1765. (Parish Register, 1711-1798)

– William Preece Born 19 March 1762 – parish reg. Pg. 277 – **Thomas Preece Born 22 February 1763

– parish reg. Pg 268 – Margaret Preece Born 23 August 1765 – parish reg. Pg. 277

***The Birth date given here for Thomas Preece is an exact match to that on his Registry of Death found in Bedford County, Virginia.***

1808 – Thomas Preas - from Wm. Simmon, at al, 170 acres on waters of Bore Auger Creek - Land Grant - Bedford, VA - 25 July 1808. Deed Books

1814 – Thomas Preas - date of his two land surveys: 13 and 133 acres. 20 Mar 1814 - Deed Books 15-56

1816 – Thomas Prease – Land Grant - 133 Acres on Waters of Enocks Creek 30 Dec 1816 – Land Office Grants, Richmond, VA

1822 – Thomas Preas - Attorney for Thomas Eads, to James Powell, 110 acres on Goose Creek, 24 June 1822 - Land Grant. Deed Books 17-228

1822 – Thomas Preas - from John Tracey, et ux, 64 acres on waters of Bore Auger Creek, adjoining said Preas - Land Grant - 13 July 1822.

1832 – Thomas Preas (Sr) – land inherited from mother, Elizabeth Preas

Lott no. 1^st ---- Drawn by Thomas Prease containing 53 3/4 acres and Bounded as follows Vig(?), Beginning at his own corner white oak on the North side of Bore Augher Creek, thence a new line N80 (degrees) W 22 1/2 poles to said creek Thence up the said creek as it meanders to a maple Thence off a new line N1 1/2 W 8 Poles to a stone and pointers in the patent line thence along the patent line S88 1/5 (degree) E88 poles to pointers near a road thence along his own line it being the patent line afour said S5 (degree) E 109 poles to the first station ----

1836 – Thomas Preas, Executor of Walrond, to William McGeorge, 160 acres on Beaverdam Creek 1 Jan 1836 - Deed Books 25-19

1836 – Thomas Preas, Executor of Walrond, to Jinny Walrond, 138 1/2 acres on Beaverdam Creek 1 Jan 1836 - Deed Books 25-244

1853 – Thomas Preas (SR.) - WILL – mentions wife Mary, daughter Polly Fuqua Son William H. Preas - Nancy Preas and John F. Preas –

1853 – Thomas Preas (SR.) - Death Register - died of pneumonia, One Parent name listed as Henry - shows born in Maryland - 20 Feb 1853 at

Studying and finding the name of “Thomas” Preas in the early records, 1790 – 1850, can become very confusing because every male seemed to have a son named Thomas, Joseph, or Henry. It is possible that one or more of the above events does not pertain to the mentioned Thomas Preas (Sr.) we are discussing here. As far as we can tell, this Thomas never named a son Thomas. Yet, there is a Thomas “JR.” that appears in the land records and this could only be the male that was staying with our matriarch, Elizabeth. I have also added “Jr.” to the name to distinguish one from the other in my records.

**(Again, 1. If two persons in a community have the same name, regardless if related or not, the eldest would be labeled Senior, the other as Junior. 2. It is “assumed” that the Thomas (Jr.) staying with matriarch, Elizabeth, was a son of Henry Sr. but it seems to be proven by a law suit against Thomas Preas Sr.’s sister, Sally Preas, concerning the disposition of her land [seen at #5 Sally Preas]. Sally never married and the Law Suit states in part the following – “Lists children and grandchildren of her deceased bro.s & Sis.s - children of Henry: Thomas Preas Jr., Ruth Sence (husb. William), & Isreal”.)**

Thomas Preas Sr. married Mary Fuqua on or about 12 Dec 1807. They had seven children: Betsy, Celia, William Harris, Polly, John F., Henry, and Mary. He was “wealthy” compared to others in the family and seemed to hold a high esteem among the citizens because he was both Farmer and a Constable, a position of trust and responsibility. Thomas acquired land and slaves as is seen in early Tax records. His male children also became involved in local civil positions and businesses.

Thomas Preas Sr. died of Pneumonia on 20 Feb 1853 a few days short of his 90^th birthday. On the death register it shows his father’s name as “Henry” and Thomas’ birthplace as MARYLAND. Though we do not know who presented this information, it is the “earliest” mention of Maryland as being a birthplace of a Preas family member living in Virginia. If the information that was given is an accurate account, it would mean that the Preas family was settled in America since, at least, 1763.

All we know about Elizabeth “Betsy” Preas is that she married Joseph Ellis on or around 13 August 1801 and was married by James Turner.

When her mother (our Matriarch) Elizabeth Preas died in 1832, a lottery was held to divide her land amongst her 10 children or, if they have died, to their heirs. Below is what was written for Elizabeth “Betsy” Preas Ellis:

1832 - Lott No. 2 - Drawn by Elizabeth Ellis containing 53 1/2 acres and bounded as follows VIG.

Beginning at a Maple and Bore Auger Creek bounded(?) to Lott No. 1 Thence up the creek as it meanders S77 1/2 (degrees) W 52 poles to pointers in the patent line thence along the patent line N12 (degrees) E 14 poles to pointers on a hill N47 3/4 (degrees) W 12 g to pointers called for by the patent in Wattons(?) line thence S 88 1/2 E145 poles to Rock and pointers near a branch corner to Lott No 1. Thence along the line of said Lott –

1812 – Polly Preas - married James Brown - 15 Apr 1812 - Mother is Elizabeth Preas

1832 – From the will separating matriarch, Elizabeth Preas’ land after her death.

Lott No 3 - Drawn by Polly Brown containing 68 3/4 acres and bounded as follows Vig

Beginning at pointers on Bore Auger Creek in the patent line and corner to Lott No 2 thence along the patent line S 12 (degrees) W 60 poles to Rock & pointers in saind line Thence a need(?) line S 80 (degrees) E 154 poles to pointers on Thomas Preas’s line being the old patent line thence along the same N 7 (degrees) E 75 poles croping the creek to a white oak corner to Lott No 1 Thence along the line of said Lott N 80 (degrees) W 22 1/2 poles to pointers on the creek aforesaid, thence up the same as it meanders to the first Station -----

Brothers: Joseph Preas, Thomas Preas - Sisters: Sally Preas, Amy Preas, Polly Brown – [See complete document under #9 Nancy Preas].

1850 – Mary (Polly) Brown – 1850 Census – Bedford County, Virginia – Mary (Polly) (60) is head of household with her Children: Thomas H.

(20), Permelia (29), Sarah (26), Nancy (24), Willmouth (22) **The children listed here match exactly with my records**

1852 – Sally Preas - (Deceased) - Chancery Suit concerning disposition of her land, heard in County Court - filed 27 Dec 1852 - ended in Nov 1854

- 40 to 60 acres -Suit brought Thomas Preas, Joseph Preas, Amy Preas, and Polly Brown, widow of James T. Brown

Deceased. Thomas Preas, Joseph Preas, Amy Preas, Polly Brown, Joseph Ellis wife Elizabeth, & Patsey Pendleton Receive $59.66

each. (This concerns dispensing money from land sold – See document in full under #5 Sally Preas)

There are many names listed, as “James Brown”, on the Virginia Census records from 1820 to 1840 so it is difficult to know which of these might be the correct family/person.

Again, very little is known about Sally Preas except that she never married and she died some time in 1852. It is thought that she lived with her mother, matriarch Elizabeth Preas, and, after her mother died, she continued to live in the house with her nephew, Thomas Preas Jr. (son of Henry Preas Sr.)

1832 – The division of land the matriarch, Elizabeth Preas, owned and portioned to her children.

Lott No 4 ---- Drawn by Sally Prease containing 65 acres and bounded as follows Vig. Beginning at a rock and pointers in the patent line & corner to Lott No. 3 Thence along the patent line S 12 (degrees) W 91(?) 1/2 poles to a beach(?) at a branch thence a new line S 83 3/4 E 110 poles to pointers corner to the patent lines N 72 3/4 (degrees) E 56 poles to a dead Spanish Oak & pointers N 7(?) degrees E 45 poles to pointers corner to Lott No 3. Thence along the line of saind Lott N 80 (degrees) W 154 poles to the first Station

Sally is mentioned in the will of her sister, Nancy Preas, who also, never married.

The Will of Nancy Preas of Bedford County, VA mentions the following relatives: Brothers: Joseph Preas, Thomas Preas - Sisters: Sally Preas, Amy Preas, Polly Brown - Nephew: Thomas Preas (lived with Nancy) - Nieces: Elizabeth ----, Roda Blankenship, Henrich Besham, Elizabeth Fouts, Permillia Brown, Sally Brown, Nancy Brown, Elizabeth A. Preas, Ceilia Preas, Nancy Preas, Amy Preas, Ruth Sense(?), and Patsy Pendelton.

When Sally died, she apparently did not leave a Will. Family members had to bring a “Chancery Suit” to decide how to divide her land and property or the sale of it.

1852 - SALLY PREAS - (Deceased) - Chancery Suit concerning disposition of her land, heard

Suit brought by Thomas Preas, Joseph Preas, Amy Preas, and Polly Brown, widow of James T. Brown, deceased, (concerns dispensing money

from land sold). Sally was sister of those listed above, never married. Elizabeth Ellis also mentioned as sister (only surviving bro.s & Sis.s)

Children of Henry: Thomas Preas Jr., Ruth Sence (husb. William), & Isreal ** My note – Their brother, John Preas (Priest) died in

Children of Rebecca Preas (who intermarried with ---Baker): Rhoda, Elizabeth, Harriet, and William (deceased).

Thomas Preas, Joseph Preas, Amy Preas, Polly Brown, Joseph Ellis wife Elizabeth, & Patsey Pendleton Receive $59.66 each.

Nathan Basham & Harriet, William Foutz & Elizabeth, Andrew Blankenship & Rhoda, and the

Though we know very little of Sally Preas, this law suit gives a treasure trove of information and verification on names and relationships, brothers and sisters, sons and daughters, those alive and dead.

Joseph Preas Sr. was a Farmer and never considered wealthy. It was from Joseph Preas Sr.’s descendants that we have the migration of the Preas Family from Virginia to Texas in the late 1880’s or very early 1890’s.

1796 – Joseph Preas - 25 Jan 1796 - From Joseph Wright, Attorney for the Echols heirs, 303 acres on Bore Auger Creek. This was first sold to

George Rusher, who assigned it to said Preas - Deed - Bedford Cty - Deed Books 10-139

1799 – Joseph Preas - married Sarah Eads - agreement dated 15 Nov 1799

1799 – Joseph Preas - Bought 95 Acres - 20 Dec 1799 - From George Rusher, Both sides of Beaverdam Creek - Land Grants in Richmond VA. - Grants 51, 1802-03, P. 296

1802 – Joseph Preas - Land Grant - Richard and Sarah Brown sell 70 acres of land at the foot of Flat Top to Joseph Preas of Bedford Cty, VA -

1803 – Joseph Preast - 300 Acres - on both sides of Beaverdam Creek. 17 May 1803 - Land Office Grant, Richmond VA - Grants 51, 1802-03, P. 296

1807 – Joseph Preas, wife Sarah, to George Bandy, 303 acres on Beaver Dam Creek, 21 Feb 1807. Deed Books 12-189

1807 – Joseph Preas, wife Sarah, to George Bandy, 95 acres, on north east side Weavers Knob. 21 Feb 1807 - Deed Books 12-189

1813 Thru 1835 - Joseph Preas made several bonds from 1813 to 1835 committing him to make sure that Thomas Preas will perform his duties

1816 – Joseph Preas - Land Grant - John Taylor sells 15 acres of land on a branch of Wolf Creek to Joseph Preas of Bedford County Deed Book

1821 – Joseph Preas - Land Grant - Samuel Tate posts an interim bond to Joseph Preas for settling the estate of Samuel Tate - 26 Feb 1821

Joseph Preas from John Tate, at al, date of a bond to insure Joseph against any loss in the settlement of estate of Samuel Tate.

1831 – Joseph Preas TR - Mortgaged to Thomas Preston, Personal Property & his 85 acre home place. 12 Sept 1831 - Deed Books 22-452 & 22-303

1831 – Joseph Preas TR - Land Grant - Grantor was James Sheppard - Deed Books 22-448

1832 - The division of land the matriarch, Elizabeth Preas, owned and portioned to her children. Lott

No 5 ---- Drawn by Joseph Prease containing 60 3/4 acres and Bounded as follows Vig Beginning at pinters corner to the patent & Lott No 4 thence along the patenet lines S 24 3/4 E up the mountain 89 poles to a white oak on a ridge N 51 1/2(degrees) E 4 3/4 poles to pointers corner to Jeters. Thence along his line it being the patent line S 1 1/9 (degrees) E 37 1/2 poles to pointers in sid line. Thence next(?) dividing lines - S 73 3/4 (degrees) N 761/2 poles to pointers N(?) 12 1/2 (degrees) W 149 poles to pointers in a line of Lott No. 4 thence along the line of said Lott S 83 3/4 (degrees) E 64 1/2 poles to the first Station----

1842 – Joseph Preas (SR.) - Mortgaged to Thomas Preston, 70 & 15 & 60 1/4 & 300 acres ---- Deed Books 29-1550 in 1842

1853 – Joseph Preas (SR.) - WILL – mentions daughters Amy & Nancy -- also Grandchildren Mary Anne & Joseph James Tate, probated 27

Joseph Preas Sr. had a daughter, Elizabeth, who married Samuel Tate. We recently found, through some Chancery Records of Bedford County, Virginia, that Samuel Tate was committed to an institution for the insane. This happened just after their second child was born. We do not know what happened to Elizabeth Preas Tate but it is thought that she remarried. We do know that their two children stayed with Joseph Sr. until his death.

Joseph Preas Sr. died 27 June 1853 in Bedford County, Virginia, just a few months before his brother, Thomas Preas Sr.. On the 1850 Census, it shows “Joseph Priest” is 81 years old. If this is correct, Joseph Preas Sr. was born on or about 1769.

From reading his Will, there may have been some animosity between Joseph Preas Sr. and his sons before his death. It is not certain if it was between him and the sons or between the daughters and the sons. Here is the Will in its entirety.

I, Joseph Preas, of the County of Bedford and State of Va. of sane mind but infirm health do by this my last will and testament in disposing of my property do will and bequeath my tract of land and all the appertanances there unto belonging to my two daughters, Amy and Nancy, and all my stock of every description, together with all my house hold and kitchen furniture of every description, my two daughters having worked for and taken care of me in my old age and the reason I give my boys nothing is they spent everything I had. My two daughters, Amy and Nancy, are to have the above property for life and should neither of them marry nor have an heir the property that I have given them at their death is to be equally divided among all my Grand Children, it is further more my wish that my two Grandchildren, Mary Anne and Joseph James Tate do remain with my daughters and live as they always have done in testimony where of I have hereunto affix my mark and seal.

Codacil. I furthermore will that in this my last will and testament that Tandy R. Jones do act as my executor to my estate in testimony there of I have affixed my mark and seal in the presence of these witnesses.

At a court heed for Bedford County, the 27th day of June 1853 this writing purporting to be the last will and testament of Joseph Preas deceased together with a codicil thereto annexed was produced in court and provedaccording to law by the oath of Matthias O'Bryan and Mieajah G Morris

subscribing witnesses thereto and said writing and codicil was ordered to be recorded as the last will and testament of the said Joseph Preas deceased. And on the motion of Tandy R. Jones the executor in said will named who made oath and together with Daniel P. Jones his security entered into and acknowledged bond in the penalty of one thousand dollars conditioned according to law certificate is granted him obtaining a probate of said will in due form.

Teste H. H. Hastom (?) BC

Seeing that he stated “and the reason I give my boys nothing is they spent everything I had” followed by “should neither of them marry nor have an heir the property that I have given them at their death is to be equally divided among all my Grand Children” tends to lend proof that there were ill feelings between father and sons. But, it could also mean that his sons were working Joseph Sr.’s land and took tools and things to care of the place. This Will led to a very lengthy Chancery Suit settling the full estate of Joseph Preas Sr.

Joseph Sr. was also mentioned in the “Chancery Suit” on the property of his deceased sister, Sally, (See # 5 Sally Preas).

“Final Decree - Nov 1854 - Thomas Preas, Joseph Preas, Amy Preas, Polly Brown, Joseph Ellis wife Elizabeth, & Patsey Pendleton - Receive $59.66 each.”

**Also, it should be noted here that on the 1880 Census, two of Joseph Sr.’s daughters were living together, Nancy Preas (72) and Amy Preas Meador (65), and both said their father, Joseph Preas Sr., was born in England. This would be totally at odds with his older brother’s birth as being in Maryland.

Joseph Sr. signs as a witness or surety on many different land documents and marriage agreements.

Joseph Preas Sr. married Sarah Eads on or about 15 November 1799. They had six known children: Joseph Jr., Nancy, Thomas B., Amy, Elizabeth, John Wesley Sr., and possibly a Nathaniel Thomas.

Females are always difficult to research before 1850 because only the heads of households were listed on the Census before then (1800 – 1840). Unless the Female was the head of household, one would not know if the document being read is of the person you are researching.

So, we rely on other records such as, marriage, wills, deeds, civil suits, and the like to gain information. The only information we have on Rebecca comes from these documents.

1799 – Rebecca Preast - married Henry Baker – Thomas and Joseph Preas witnessed -- Mother was Elizabeth - Bedford, VA - 20 Mar 1799

1832 – The division of land the matriarch, Elizabeth Preas, owned and portioned to her children.

Lott No 6 ---- Drawn by Rebecca Baker containing 58 1/4 acres and bounded as follows Vig. Beginning at pointers in a line of Lott No. 4 and corner to Lott No. 5 on a hill side thence along the line of Lott No. 5 S 12 1/2 (degrees) E 149 1/2 poles to pointers corner to Lott No 5 thence a new line S 73 3/4 W 77 1/2 poles to a large Red Oak on the Mountain & corner to the patent. Thence a new line N172 1/2 poles to a Beach(?) corner to the patent to Lott No 4 Thence along the line of said Lott S 83 3/4 E 45 1/2 poles to the first station -----

1845 – Thomas Preas from Rhoda Blankenship [daughter of Rebecca Preas Baker], of Franklin Co., VA, 58 acres at High Knob Mountain.

Being her share in her mother, Rebecca Baker's share in land of Elizabeth Preas, deceased. 19 Dec 1845 - Deed Books 32-233

1852 – Sally Preas - (Deceased) - Chancery Suit concerning disposition of her land, heard in County Court - filed 27 Dec 1852 - ended in Nov 1854 –

Children of Rebecca Preas (who intermarried with ---Baker): Rhoda, Elizabeth, Harriet, and William. **The children of Rebecca (Preas)

and Henry Baker received $14.92 from Sally Preas’ estate – please see the entire Chancery Suit above under #5, Sally Preas**

The only thing we know of Amy Preas comes from legal documents and the Census records. She was listed as one of the Matriarch’s, Elizabeth Preas, children in the division of Elizabeth’s land after her death.

Apparently, Amy never married and it also possible that “Amy” is a middle name or nickname. Here is all that I have that involving Amy.

1832 - Division of Elizabeth Preas land into “Lott’s” given to her children or their heirs.

Lott No 8 -- Drawn by Amy Prease containing 51 3/4 acres and Bounded as follows Viz. Beginning at a Red oak stump corner to the patent & to Lott No. 7 thence along the patent lines N 47 (degrees) W 57 1/2 poles to pointers corner (?) Sinclair thence along his lines S 24 (degrees) W 21 1/2 poles to Spanish Oak S 15 (degrees) E 49 poles to pointers S 66 (degrees) W 29 1/2 poles to chesnut(?) S 66 3/4 (degrees E 75 1/2 poles to a poplar & Sorsel(?) corner to Lott No 7 thence along the line of said Lott N 6 (degrees) E 136 poles to the first station----

The Will of Nancy Preas of Bedford County, VA mentions the following relatives: Brothers: Joseph Preas, Thomas Preas - Sisters: Sally Preas, Amy Preas, Polly Brown - Nephew: Thomas Preas (lived with Nancy) - Nieces: Elizabeth ----, Roda Blankenship, Henrich Besham, Elizabeth Fouts, Permillia Brown, Sally Brown, Nancy Brown, Elizabeth A. Preas, Ceilia Preas, Nancy Preas, Amy Preas, Ruth Sense(?), and Patsy Pendelton.

1850 – 1850 Census – Shows Amy Preas (60 years of age) living with sister, Sally Preas (70 years of age), and head of household, their

1852 - SALLY PREAS - (Deceased) - Chancery Suit concerning disposition of her land, heard in County Court - filed 27 Dec 1852 - ended in

Suit brought by Thomas Preas, Joseph Preas, Amy Preas, and Polly Brown, widow of James T. Brown, deceased, (only surviving bro.s & Sis.s) [concerns dispensing money from land sold). Sally was sister of those listed above, never married. Elizabeth Ellis also mentioned as sister.]

Final Decree - Nov 1854 - Thomas Preas, Joseph Preas, Amy Preas, Polly Brown, Joseph Ellis wife Elizabeth, & Patsey Pendleton - Receive $59.66 each. (See Full record under #5 Sally Preas)

1860 – 1860 Census – Shows Amy Preas (71 years of age) living with Thomas Preas Jr. 61 (son of Henry Preas Jr.) in Bedford County, Virginia.

To Jeremiah Wood, to nieces, Permelia Brown, Sarah Brown, Nancy Brown & Wilmoth Brown. Will Books 21-258

Again, the only information we have on Nancy comes from legal documents. In this case, it would be from her Mother’s land distribution after her death and Nancy’s Will.

Nancy never married and died sometime around 1844 where her Will gives information on her Brothers, Sisters, nieces and nephew.

From the 1800 to 1830 Census, the matriarch, Elizabeth Preas, showed 3 other females living with her along with a younger male. We know the male was Thomas Preas Jr. (son of Henry Preas Jr.) and one of the 3 females was most likely Nancy (along with sisters Amy Preas and Sally Preas). After Elizabeth Preas’ death, they continued to live in the household with their nephew, Thomas Preas Jr., he being the head of household.

1832 – Division of Elizabeth Preas land into “Lott’s” given to her children or their heirs.

Lott No 9. --- Drawn by Nancy Prease containing 45 1/4 acres & bounded as follows - Beginning at a Large Red Oak at the Mountain cornter to the patent in said line. Thence along the line of the patent S 37 1/4 (degrees) E 60 1/4 poles to pointers in said line. Thence a new line N 69 (degrees) E 125 1/9 poles to pointers in Jeters line being the patent line thence along the same N 1/2 W 49 poles to pointers corner to Lott No. 5 thence along the line of said Lott and passing(?) the corner of said Lott & along the line of Lott No. 6 S 73 1/4 (degrees) W 154 poles to the first station ----

Brothers: Joseph Preas, Thomas Preas – Sisters: Sally Preas, Amy Preas, Polly Brown – Nephew: Thomas Preas (lived with Nancy) -

Nieces: Elizabeth ----, Roda Blankenship, Henrich Besham, Elizabeth Forts, Permillia Brown, Sally Brown, Nancy Brown, Elizabeth A. Preas, Ceilia Preas, Nancy Preas, Amy Preas, Ruth Sense(?), and Patsy Pendelton.

This is all that has been found concerning Nancy Preas. Of course, information will be added if found.

Margaret Preas presents us with a quandary. From what records we can find, it looks as if she had a daughter, Patsy (Patsey) Preas.

1807 – Patsey Preast - married Phillip Pendleton - witnessed by Thomas Preas – Mother was given as Margaret Preas - Bedford, VA

Here is the Marriage Agreement in full.

Know all men by these presents that we, Phillip Pendleton and Thomas Preas are held firmly bound unto Wm. A. Cabele esq. governor or chief magistrate of the commonwealth of Virginia to the true payment which bind myself, my heirs and our seals dated this 14th day of March 1807.

The condition of this above obligation is such that whereas there is marriage shortly intended to be had and solemnized between the above bound, Phillip Pendleton and Patsey Preast.

Now of these shall be unlawful cause to obstruct the said marriage then the above obligation to be void else to remain in full force and virtue.

The Clerk of Bedford will be pleased to issue license for Philip Pendleton to be married to my daughter Patsey Preast. Teste Margaret Preas

Thomas Preas March 13, 1807 Mace Hanes

If this is the same Margaret, (and there is no other found during the time period), then the questions mount: “Who was the father of Patsy?” Was Margaret a single mother? Was Margaret a Daughter-in-law that moved to Virginia after her husband died and, if so, what was the name of the husband? You can play the “What if” game and come up with all sorts of scenarios.

First of all, the following records from Maryland would seem to show that Margaret is the daughter of Henry Sr. and Elizabeth Preas.

1762-1765 - WILLIAM, THOMAS, & MARGARET PREECE Births - having been baptized

at King George's Rock Creek Parish, Prince George's County (now District of Columbia), as "Preece" (Parish Register, 1711-1798) Henry and Elizabeth Preece had children baptized: 1. William Preece, b. 19March 1762 - (Prsh.Reg., p. 277) 2. Thomas Preece, b. 22 February 1763 (prsh.Reg., p.268) 3. Margaret Preece, b. 23 August 1765 (Prsh. Reg., p. 277)

The birth date of Thomas Preece mentioned above matches that of Thomas Preas Sr., the son of Henry Sr. and Elizabeth Preas, so I think it would be safe to assume that Margaret is a daughter of the same parents. This seems to lend credence that Margaret had a child out of wedlock. It would have been scandalous for colonial times, even if she were raped.

***Part of the “What if” game. If it is true that those mentioned above are Preas Family members, they were living in Maryland during the Revolutionary War, of which it looks like at least 2 Preas Family members participated. Is it possible that Margaret might have been attacked, be it by a British soldier, British sympathizer, or Revolutionary member? We have no answers: nothing but guess, conjecture, and questions.

1832 - Division of Elizabeth Preas land into “Lott’s” given to her children or their heirs.

Lott no 10 --- Drawn by Margarett Prease containing 45 1/4 acres and bounded as follows viz. Beginning at pointers in the patent line corner to Lott No. 9 thence along the patent lines S 37 1/4 (degrees) E 73 poles to a small white oak on a ridge N 77 1/4 (degrees) E 74 1/2 poles to Jones corner Sreast(?) thence alnog his line N 1 1/9 (degrees) W 85 1/9 poles croping a branch to pointers corner to Lott No. 9 thence along the line of said Lott S 69 (degrees) W 135 1/9 poles to the first Station -----

It appears that Margaret Preast died in 1846 without a Will and her property was taken over and sold. I have a copy of the “Estate Sale” of deceased, Margaret Preast, dated 23 August 1846.

1846 - MARGARET PREAST - (appraisal on 8-23-1846) No heirs named. Will Book 12-299 --

What is very apparent in this document was that a Mrs. Margaret Pendleton purchased almost all of the household items. It is my opinion that this “Margaret Pendleton” is the daughter, also named “Patsey”. (See Marriage agreement above for Patsey Preast and Philip Pendleton.)

Until we gather further evidence that either verifies or disproves what has been presented, the following is the closest we can come in telling the story of the earliest Preas Family.

Henry Preas Sr. left England (or Wales) and arrived in the American Colony of Maryland sometime in the 1750’s. It is not known if he was married to Elizabeth at this time or after his arrival in America. It is likely that Henry arrived in America as an indentured servant, and he may have run away to serve in the French & Indian War. It is very likely Henry was active in the Revolutionary War while they lived in Maryland but we don't know to what extent.

It looks like Henry and Elizabeth Preas settled for a time in Prince George’s County, Maryland where we find documentation that shows they had three children – William Preece on 19 March 1762, Thomas Preece on 22 February 1763, and Margaret Preece on 23 August 1765. These three were baptized at King George’s Rock Creek Parish in Prince George’s County, Maryland. We know they had other children but do not have any documentation as to where they were born at this time.

We know that a portion of Prince George’s County, Maryland was given to the Federal government in the formation of the District of Columbia, Washington D.C. some time in the 1790 range and it is possible some of this land belonged to the Preas Family.

Some time between 1788-1789, the Preas Family migrated from Maryland to Bedford County, Virginia where Henry Preas Sr. probably died shortly after their arrival. All of their children lived in or around Bedford County, Virginia. (except possibly a William Preas)

A son, Henry Preas Jr. married Rachel Jarred in December 1791 and they had four (possibly five) children: Ruth, Isreal, John, Thomas and, possibly, Alfred. Henry Preas Jr. died in September 1803 where upon his wife quickly remarried to Nicholas Trent in December 1803.

In March of 1804, Rachel (Preas) Trent gave birth to Alfred and his surname was given as Trent but many think he is the son of Henry Preas Jr. Some time between the years 1810 and 1820, Rachel and Nicholas Trent moved to Breckenridge County, Kentucky taking all but one of the Preas children. Thomas (Jr.) was left with grandmother, Elizabeth.

Joseph Preas Jr. was born 2 May 1811 in Bedford County, Virginia to Joseph Preas Sr. and Sarah Eads Preas. He married Mahala L. Parker on 10 August 1835 – Joseph Jr. was a Farmer in Bedford County, Virginia and died at the age of 49 on 8 September 1860. We do not know the cause of death and from a Chancery Suit, it looks as if it was very sudden.

Joseph Jr. and Mahala had eleven children: Charles Wesley, William Edwards, Martha Ann, Joseph Nathaniel, James Thomas, Sarah Jane, John Henry, George Harvey, Amy Elizabeth, Mahala Fannie, and Joel Robert.

**Note: Charles Wesley Preas was the first of the family to enlist in the Confederate Army. He enlisted on 20 May 1861. His brothers, Joseph Nathaniel Preas and James Thomas Preas, enlisted in the Confederacy together on 24 August 1861 but James Thomas Preas became ill and died of disease while at a winter training camp located at Monterey, Virginia on 13 January 1862. All Confederate records can be seen in the “Confederate Veterans” section.**

Not much is known of the life of Joseph Preas Jr. because few records have been found. Since we have not found a Will of any kind for Joseph Jr., we assume that he died suddenly. We have found a Chancery Suit concerning the land that he lived on. It was on a tract of land that his father, Joseph Preas Sr. owned. Two sisters, Amy & Nancy, lived on one tract and Joseph Jr. on the other. But, his father's Will (that of Joseph Preas Sr.) stated that his property was to be given to Amy & Nancy, but most who read the Will seem to think that the Father wanted Joseph to keep his land and Amy & Nancy were to keep their tract. But, the Chancery Suit, which drug on for many years, found that there was no viable proof that Joseph Preas Sr. intended his son to have the land. This may have actually led to the early death of Joseph Preas Jr., because he died while this Chancery Suit was on going. Mahala Preas (wife of Joseph Preas Jr.), wound up bidding on and winning the land at an auction. After seventeen years of ownership, yet another Chancery Suit was issued against Mahala Preas by a nephew, Thomas P. Preas. Mahala Preas won the suit and was able to keep her land.

The only records we do have of Joseph Preas Jr., (other than Chancery suits), are from the Census records of 1850 and 1860.

On the 1850 census, the first Census that listied the names of ALL the family members, shows Joseph Preas Jr. living in Bedford County, Virginia with wife, Mahala, and seven children: Charles W., William E., Martha Ann, Nathaniel (Joseph), James T., Sarah J., and John H.

The 1860 census shows Joseph Preas Jr. as a “Laborer” in Bedford County, Virginia. He is living with wife, Mahala, and nine children: Martha Ann, Joseph Nathaniel, James Thomas, Sarah Jane, John Henry, George Harris, Amy Elizabeth, Mahala Fannie, and Joel Robert. It also shows that his Real Estate was worth $600.00 and his Personal Estate was worth $200.00. This Census was done on 6 July 1860 – Joseph Preas Jr. died on 8 September 1860.

We do know that four of Joseph Jr. and Mahala Preas’ children left Bedford County, Virginia and migrated to Texas around 1887. More of this will be written later.

When Joseph Preas Jr. died suddenly in 1860, there were nine children living at home, five under the age of 15. I can’t help but think that times were tough for many years for this family.

The 1870 census shows Mahala (50), living with five children and two grandchildren: George H. (18), Ann E. (17), Mahala F. (14), Joel R. (12), Sarah J. (Preas) Candlar (22), James Candlar (5) and Mahala A. Candlar (2). Mahala A. Candlar’s husband died around 1869 and she moved in with her mother. It lists Mahala Preas’ Personal Estate at $200.00 and she is “Keeping House”. George H. is listed as a “Farm Laborer”.

The 1880 census shows George H. Preas has taken over as head of household. George (39) is a Farmer, married to Betty A. (Haldren) (21). Living with him is his mother, Mahala (68), his brother, Joshua (Joel) (21), a nephew, James T. Candler (14), and a niece, Mahala Candler (12). Joshua Preas and James Candler are listed as “Farm Laborers”.

About the same time when four of her children left for Texas, a Chancery Suit was heard in Circuit Court.

The Suit was filed on 24 June 1887 as seen below.

(1) By a former order of the Court he is entitled to a deed to 146 acres on the Beaverdam; but has not received it.

(2) Mahala Preas has been living on the land, because she has no other place to live; and has paid no rent.

(3) Mahala, and her agent have been cutting timber and selling the lumber.

(5) Suit asks that Mahala and her agent, Joel Lawhorne be stopped from cutting and hauling timber from the land; and be stopped from selling lumber already hauled and sawed, etc.

(1) Thomas P. Preas did receive a deed to the land, but he had never paid for it, and should not have possission of it.

(2) William H. Preas, now deceased, the father of Thomas P. Preas was a Commissioner of the Court, and sold the land at auction. Said Mahala bought the land; and after making several payments, was told, by William H. Preas that she had paid for it, and it was hers.

(4) She now believes that William H. Preas, may have lied to her, in favor of his son. Therefore she enters a Cross-bill and asks the Court to decree that a good title to the land be made to her.

(1) Thomas P. Preas states that his father owed him a considerable amount of money, and offered to deed the land to him, because Mahala had failed to pay for it.

Mahala Preas died on 8 January 1890, just a couple of years after the Chancery Suit.

**Of Note -- Mahala Parker Preas’ father, Nathaniel B. Parker, was a veteran of the War of 1812 and her Mahala’s mother was Ann Cash Tyler. Ann Tyler’s father, Daniel Tyler, was a veteran of the American Revolution. “Daniel Tyler enlisted 4 March 1776 in Amherst County, Virginia for a term of two years and served as a private in Captain Samuel J. Cabell’s company, Colonel Philip Buckner’s Virginia regiment, stationed at Springfield, below Williamsburg, in Virginia, marched to the north where he was detached from his regiment and joined Colonel Daniel Morgan’s regiment of riflemen, was at the capture of Burgoyne, in the Battles of Chestnut “Ridge”, Edge Hill, and in many skirmishes, went in to winter quarters at Valley Forge and was discharged there 20 February 1778. Daniel Tyler was allowed pension on his application executed August 28, 1819, at which time he was a resident of Bedford County, Virginia, where he was still living in 1829.”

Nancy Preas was born around 1808 in Bedford County, Virginia to Joseph Preas Sr. and Sarah Eads. We have not found a record that gives her exact birth date. Nancy never married.

We know that Nancy lived with her father, Joseph Preas Sr., until his death in 1853 where he left all household goods and possessions to Nancy and her sister, Amy (who was also living with Joseph Sr.) as can be seen in Joseph Preas Sr.’s Will. Nancy also continued to take care of her niece and nephew, Ann and Joseph Tate.

1860 Census – Nancy Preas (55) is living with her nephew, Joseph Tate (21) and another male listed as 11 years of age. Her Real Estate is worth $1000.00 and Personal Estate is $300.00. Joseph Tate is shown as a “Farm Laborer”.

1870 Census – Nancy Preas (62) is living with a Samuel Tait (Tate) (73). Also living in this household is Nancy’s sister, Amy Meador (54) and her children: Annanias Meador (11), Mary E. Meador (12), and Jubal M. Meador (8). Amy is widowed. **Samuel Tait is listed as head of household. We don’t know if he moved in with Nancy or the reverse. We believe that Samuel Tait is the grandfather of the children Nancy cared for (Ann and Joseph Tate).

1880 Census – Nancy Preas (72) is again the head of household. She still has her sister, Amy Meador (65), and children, Eliza Meador (21) and Jubal Meador (17), living with her. A niece, Fannie Preas (17) is either living or visiting her at this time.

We have no record of a Will nor doe we know when this Nancy Preas died. She never married.

Thomas B. Preas was born around 1815 in Bedford County, Virginia. (The birth year comes from the Census Records) He was born to Joseph Preas Sr. and Sarah Eads Preas. Thomas B. married Mary R. Parker on 10 October 1850 in Bedford County, Virginia. We do not know Thomas’ date of death.

On the 1850 Census, Thomas B. Preas (35) is living in Bedford County, Virginia with wife, Mary (35) near his father, Joseph Preas Sr. and there are no children listed. The census shows Thomas B. Preas as a Laborer.

On the 1860 Census, Thomas B. Preas (45) is a Laborer in Botetourt County, Viriginia. He is living with wife, Mary R. (38) and five children: Dematis, Sarah R., Addy E., Mandy M., and Mary R. The Value of his Personal Estate is given as $125.00.

On the 1870 Census, Thomas B. Preas (57) is a “Cooper” in Craig County, Virginia. He is living with wife, Mary R. (49), and five children: Dematris, Sarah R., Ann E., Amanda, and Elizabeth.

Thomas B. Preas and his family leave us with many questions. The entire family seems to disappear after the 1870 Census. We cannot find them or any record of them after 1870.

***Could this Thomas Preas be the one that is listed as a Prisoner of War in Camp Chase, Ohio??***

Amy Preas was born around 1815 in Bedford County, Virginia to Joseph Preas Sr. and Sarah Eads. She married Annanias Paschal Meador Sr. on 9 October 1856. It is estimated that she died around 1885.

Amy and Annanias Meador had four children: Mary Elizabeth, Annanias Jr., Jubal, and Fannie.

Amy lived with her sister, Nancy Preas, for many years until she married Annanias in 1856. This marriage did not last very long because Annanias Meador, Sr. died around 1868.

On the 1870 Census, Amy Preas Meador (54) and her children, Annanias, Mary, and Jubal, were living with Nancy Preas (62) and a Samuel Tait (Tate) (73) in Bedford County, Virginia. Amy is shown as widowed. **Samuel Tait is listed as head of household. We don’t know if he moved in with Nancy or the reverse. We believe that Samuel Tait is either the grandfather or father of the children Nancy cared for (Ann and Joseph Tate).

On the 1880 Census, Amy Preas Meador (65) and her children, Eliza and Jubal, are living with her sister, Nancy (72) and a niece, Fannie Preas (16) in Bedford County, Virginia.

Elizabeth Preas was born to Joseph Preas Sr. and Sarah Eads. We do not know year of birth or death. We do know that she married Samuel Tate on 8 December 1835 in Bedford County, Virginia.

Elizabeth Preas Tate and Samuel Tate had two children: Mary Ann and Joseph James Tate.

Something happened to either Samuel Tate and/or Elizabeth. In a Chancery Suit brought by Joseph Preas Sr. in 1842/43 we find that Samuel Tate was placed in an institute for the "insane". Joseph Sr. was given the responsibility of running the "estate" of Samuel Tate. At the same time, Elizabeth (Preas) Tate disappears. Did she remarry? Was she killed by husband Samuel? All we know is that their two children were living with Joseph Preas Sr. and daughters, Amy & Nancy on the 1850 & 1860 Census.

On the 1850 Census, the Tate children, Ann (14) and Joseph J. (12) are living with Joseph Preas Sr., and daughters, Nancy Preas (34) and Amy Preas (25) in Bedford County, Virginia.

On the 1860 Census, Joseph Tate (21) is a Farm Laborer living with Nancy Preas (55) in Bedford County, Virginia.

John Wesley Preas was born in December 1801 in Bedford County, Virginia to Joseph Preas Sr. and Sarah Eads Preas. He married Delyla Taylor on 19 October 1833 in Bedford County, Virginia. John Wesley Preas died on 1 May 1893 in Bedford County, Virginia.

John Wesley Preas and wife, Delyla, had 11 children: William Whitfield, Thomas Jefferson, Sarah Elizabeth, Mary Jane (Polly), Cathy, Ann Eliza, Jane, Selina Rebecca, James Henry, Rebecca, and John Wesley Jr.

1850 Census – John W. Preas (48) is shown as a Farmer in Bedford County, Virginia. He is living with wife, Delyla (48), are shown with seven children: William, Thomas, Ann, Mary, Cathy, Jane, and “mastor”. **I believe the ages given to John & Delyla are incorrect by Census taker.

1860 Census - John (62) is shown as a Farmer in Bedford County, Virginia. He is living with wife, Delyla (52), are shown with Five children: Sarah E., Mary J., Ann E., Seline R., and John W. Jr. John Wesley Preas Sr. Personal Estate was listed as $65.00.

1870 Census - John (71) is shown as a Farmer in Bedford County, Virginia. He is living with wife, Delyla (60), are shown with 4 children: Sarah E., Mary J., Selina R., and John W. Jr.

1880 Census - John (82) - is shown as a Farmer in Bedford County, Virginia. He is living with Delyla (68), are shown with four daughters (apparently never married) - Sarah E., Mary J., Ann E. and Rebecca. Also has grandson, Charles, working for him as a farm laborer (son of William Whitfield Preas).

Until recently, we did not know that William was the son of Joseph Preas Sr. William's name is mentioned in two different Chancery Suits that concerned the land of Joseph Preas Sr. after his death - A Chancery suit was filed by Joseph Sr.'s daughters, Amy & Nancy, against the rest of their brothers & sisters - listing a William among them: "Your oratrixes further show unto your Honor that besides themselves the said Joseph Preas (Sr.) left the following children viz John Prease, Joseph Prease, William Prease & Thomas Prease & grandchildren Mary Ann Tate and Joseph James Tate, children of Elizabeth Tate, a deceased daughter of the said Testator." Also, "It appearing that the defendant William Preas is not an inhabitant of this commonwealth". And in a suit brought by Martha Preas Thornhill (daughter of Joseph Preas Jr.) against the heirs of Joseph Preas Sr. said this, "His son, William Preas, left Virginia and went west about 60 years ago and has never been heard from".

William Preas was born around 1805. He married Mary "Polly" Baker on 28 May 1835 in Boone County, Kentucky. He died around 1875 in Greene County, Indiana. They had 5 children: Joseph S., Sarah F., M.E., Margaret A., and William.

1850 - Census - William (45) is a Farmer in Boone County, Kentucky. He is living with wife, Mary (43), and five children: Joseph, S.F., M.E., M.A. & W.T. - Census Taker spelled the name "Price".

1860 - Census - William (55) is a Farmer in Greene County, Indiana. He is living with wife, Mary (51) and four children: Joseph S., Margaret A., William T., and Sarah F. Gee and her three children: Mary S. Gee, Ann M. Gee, and John W. Gee. William's name is spelled "Priest"

1870 - Census - William (65) is a Farmer in Greene County, Indiana. He is living with wife, Mary (63), and two children: William (who is listed as idiotic) and Sarah F. Gee and her two children: Mary Gee & Asmilda A. Gee. William's name is spelled "Preas".

1880 - Census - Mary (72) is widowed and living in Greene County, Indiana. She is iving with son William (26) and granddaughter Leauisa (11) - Mary's name is spelled "Priest".

Not much is known of this family. Their son, Joseph S. Preas, fought with the Union in the Civil War. If you have any information - please e-mail me at jrpreas@suddenlink.net - it would be appreciated by many family members.

Charles Wesley Preas was born 28 April 1836 in Bedford County, Virginia to Joseph Preas Jr. and Mahala Parker Preas. He married Reuhama Ann Keenan on 13 February 1866 in Nicholas County, West Virginia. Charles Wesley Preas died on 24 March 1926 in Nicholas County, West Virginia.

Charles W. and Reuhama Preas had 11 children: William Edward, James Alonza, Alfred Edmond, George Theodore, Mahala “Electa”, Annie Belle, Virginia Elizabeth, Isadora “Icie”, Sarah J., Lola, and Elva B. “Elvie”.

On the 1860 Census, Charles Wesley Preas (24) was a Farm Laborer and staying with a William Bates.

Charles Wesley Preas enlisted in the Confederate Army 20 May 1861. He was with Capt. Wm. Lewis Wingfield's Co. (Piedmont Rifles), 28th Reg't Virginia Infantry. He was with Co. E until Septemeber of 1861 where he was sent to Co. D. - Appears on Hospital Muster Roll of New School Presbyterian Church Hospital, at Winchester, VA., from Sept 17 to Nov 1, 1862 - Dated Nov 1, 1862. Attached to Hospital: When: Sept 23, 1862 - How Employed: Nurse - He was back with Co. D in Nov 1862 until June of 1863 when he was transfered to Co. G, 1st VA Infantry in exchange for Pvt. J.R.F. Stewart where he served until June of 1864 where he is listed as AWOL. (See Confederate records in the Civil War Section)

It is said that he had seen and experienced such horrors and deprivation from the war that he left and found his way to West Virginia. He had cut all ties with the family until almost twenty years later when a brother was doing business with someone in West Virginia and was told he looked just like someone he knew with a similar last name. The brothers met and contact with the family was made once again. Charles was spelling his name as "Preast" at the time from which many of his line still spell it that way.

On the 1870 Census, Charles Wesley Preas (34) is a Farmer in Nicholas County, West Virginia. He is living with wife, Reuhama (30) and two children: Isadora (2) and Electa (1). The value of his Real Estate was listed as $300.00 and Real Estate as $200.00.

On the 1880 Census, Charles Wesley Preas (43) is a Farmer in Nicholas County, West Virginia. He is living with wife, Reuhama (33), and five children: Isadora, Mahala E., Virginia E., William E., and Sarah J. (**Ages and spelling of names are often written or spelled incorrectly by the census takers.)

On the 1900 Census, Charles Wesley Preas (64) is a Farmer in Nicholas County, West Virginia. He is living with wife, Reuhama (50), and four children: Elva B., James A., Alfred E., and George T.

On the 1910 Census, Charles Wesley Preas (74) is a Farmer in Nicholas County, West Virginia. He is living with wife, Reuhama (60), and three children: Alfred, George, and Electra Gray. (Eectra apparently married a John Gray but must have returned home – do not know if divorced or widowed, but census shows her as single.) This Census shows that Charles and Reuhama Preas have been married for 46 years and that Reuhama has had 11 children; but only 7 are still living at this time.

On the 1920 Census, Charles Wesley Preas (84) is listed as a Farm Laborer in Nicholas County, West Virginia. It looks as if he has handed the reins of the farm to his son, Alfred E. (30) because Alfred is listed as the head of household. (Charles’ wife, Reuhama died in 1918). Alfred E. is listed as the Farmer and is living with his wife, Myrtle M. (25) and their two children: Willie E. (3 ½) and Virgie (1).

Charles Wesley Preas died at the age of 90 on 24 March 1926 in Nicholas County, West Virginia.

William Edward Preas was born on 6 January 1838 in Bedford County, Virginia to Joseph Preas Jr. & Mahala Parker Preas. He married Martha J. Maddry on 21 December 1858. William died in 1864 in an accident that caused him to be trampled by a horse.

William and Martha Preas had two children before his death: James Henry Preas and Martha Preas.

Due to the young age of William’s death, there is very little information on him. He is on the 1860 census.

1860 Census – William Preas (22) is a Farmer in Bedford County, Virginia. On this census, his last name is spelled “Priest”. He is living with wife; Martha (17) and no children are shown. His Real Estate worth is $400.00 and Personal Estate is $50.00

Martha Ann Preas was born on 7 February 1840 in Bedford County, Virginia to Joseph Preas Jr. & Mahala Parker Preas. She married Harvey J. Thornhill on 20 September 1860 in Bedford County, Virginia (See Picture of Mahala Ann Preas and Harvey Thornhill and transcribed copy of Marriage Certificate ). Martha Preas Thornhill died on 22 December 1911.

The only records we have on Martha and her husband comes from the 1870 and 1880 census records. We cannot find anything on Martha or husband Harvey in any census records after 1880.

1870 Census – Harvey Thornhill (40) is a Farmer in Bedford County, Virginia. He is living with wife, Martha (31) and three children: Mary A., Eliza J., and Sarah C..

1880 Census – Harvey Thornhill (50) is a Farmer in Bedford County, Virginia. He is living with wife, Martha (40) and six children: Mary A., Eliza J., Sarah C., James H., George C. (or O), and Malicia.

Chancery Suit 1910/11 - Martha brought a Suit against the heirs of Joseph Preas Sr. (her father) and William H. Preas (deceased) from whom she purchased the land. This action was taken only to receive true, free & clear, title to the land that she had owned for 30 years, yet had no legal documentation due to the death of William H. Preas. This Suit can be seen on the "Chancery Suit" section of the Preas Page Site or click HERE.

Joseph Nathaniel Preas was born on 27 March 1842 in Bedford County, Virginia to Joseph Preas Jr. and Mahala Parker Preas. He married Nancy Ellen Lester on 7 April 1866 in Floyd County, Virginia. Joseph Nathaniel Preas died on 31 December 1932 in Glen Daniel County, West Virginia. (You can see a picture of Joseph Nathaniel and Nancy Preas in the Pictures Section.)

Joseph N. and Nancy Preas had six children – all female: Eliza Jane, Nancy Elizabeth, Willie Mae, Lucy Alma, Tida M., and Etta Lee.

Joseph Nathaniel Preas was living with his parents until 1861, when he enlisted in the Confederate Army on 24 August 1861. (He and his brother, James Thomas Preas, enlisted together. Their Military Records can be seen in the Civil War Section.) Joseph N. Preas was wounded 4 May 1863 and looks to have spent the rest of the war in a Hospital and recuperating. It is said that during this recuperation period he met his wife, Nancy Ellen Lester and married in 1866, a year after the Civil War ended.

1870 Census – Joseph N. Preas (27) is a Farmer in Floyd County, Virginia. (Last name was spelled, “Pries”) He is living with wife, Nancy (25), and two children: Eliza Jane and Nancy E.

***Around 1879, Joseph Nathaniel Preas moved his family from Floyd County, Virginia to Raleigh County, West Virginia. He seemed to be following the family of his wife, Nancy Lester, because they all (brothers, sisters and parents) arrive in Raleigh County, W.V. at the same time.

1880 Census – Joseph N. Preas (38) is listed as a “Shoemaker” and living in Raleigh County, West Virginia. He is living with wife, Nancy (37) and five children: Eliza J., Nanny E., Willie B., Lucy A., and Tida M..

1900 Census – Joseph N. Preas (55) is listed as a Farmer in Raleigh County, West Virginia. He is living with wife, Nancy (53), and one child, Etta Preas Hawley (18) and her husband, Marion Hawley (23) who is listed as a Carpenter. This census shows that Nancy has had 7 children; only 6 are alive at the time of the census.

1910 Census – Joseph N. Preas (64) is listed as a Farmer and “odd jobs” in Raleigh County, West Virginia. He is living with wife, Nancy (63). Joseph’s last name is spelled “Priest”. This census shows that they had been married for 41 years and Nancy has had 6 children and all 6 are alive at the time of this census. (Different from the 1900 census)

1930 Census – Joseph Nathaniel Preas (88) is listed as a “Shoe Repairman”, is widowed, and living with his daughter, Willie Mae Preas Callaway (49), her husband John Edward Callaway (52), their son Ott M. Callaway (25) and his wife, Garnett P. Callaway (20).

Joseph Nathaniel Preas died at the age of 90 on 31 December 1932 in Raleigh County, West Virginia.

James Thomas Preas was born on 3 November 1843 in Bedford County, Virginia. He was living with his parents, Joseph Preas Jr. and Mahala Preas, until 1861 when the outbreak of the Civil War took place.

1861 – Civil War - James Thomas Preas and his brother, Joseph Nathaniel Preas, left together and both enlisted into the Confederate Army on 24 August 1861. James did not survive the training camp, to which they were assigned. The following is from John Hood, whose ancestor is Joseph Nathaniel Preas: “CAMP ALLEGHENY & MONTEREY: Nat and his brother James spent the winter camp of 1861-1862 at Camp Allegheny on the Virginia-West Virginia border, and was the highest altitude camp of that winter of the war.”

James Thomas Preas died on 13 January 1862 of sickness and disease while in training at Confederate Camp Allegheny. **NOTE: His military record, description of death, and other information are shown under the Civil War Records section.

Sarah “Sallie” Jane Preas was born on 22 May 1846 in Bedford County, Virginia to Joseph Jr. and Mahala Parker Preas. She married her first husband Thomas F. Candler on 13 August 1865 and her second husband William H. Trent on 12 December 1877; both marriages took place in Bedford County, Virginia. Sarah Preas Candler died on 22 July 1900 in Delta County, Texas.

Sarah married Thomas F. Candler on 13 August 1865 and they had two children: James Thomas and Mahala Ann Candler. The marriage was short lived because Thomas Candler died sometime around 1869.

On the 1870 Census, Sarah Preas Candler (22) and her two children, James (5) and Mahala (2), are living with her mother, Mahala Preas in Bedford County, Virginia. **It looks as if Sarah left her two children with her mother, Mahala Preas, when she re-married to a William H. Trent on 12 December 1877.

On the 1880 Census, Sarah Preas Trent (33) and husband, William Trent (24), are living with their two children, Emma L. (3) and Purney E. (2) in Bedford County, Virginia: not far from her brother, John Henry Preas (they are on the same census page). This census shows William Trent as a Farm Laborer.

On the 1900 Census, Sarah Preas Trent (54) and husband, William Trent (44), are living in Delta County, Texas with son, John R. (18). William Trent is listed as a Farmer. They lived near her nephew, Mack Henry Preas (son of her brother John Henry Preas) because they are shown on the same page of the census.

The date of this Census was 15 June 1900. Sarah Preas Trent died shortly afterwards on 22 July 1900 in Delta County, Texas.

**Note – looks as if Sarah and William Trent followed John Henry Preas to Texas.

John Henry Preas was born on 6 January 1849 in Bedford County, Virginia to Joseph Preas Jr. and Mahala Parker Preas. He married Eliza Frances Overstreet on 11 June 1868 in Bedford County, Virginia (see transcribed copy of Marriage License). John Henry Preas died on 22 August 1909 in Delta County, Texas.

John Henry Preas and Eliza had 14 children: Mack Henry, Martha Louise, Annie Elizabeth, Walter Neugent, Texas Ula, Joseph Benjamin, James Robert, George Washington, Charlie Wesley, Hettie N., Lucy Myrtle, John William, Edgar Combs, and Era Frances.

On the 1870 Census, John Henry Preas (21) was a Farm Laborer in Bedford County, Virginia. He was living with wife, Eliza (18), and one child, Martha A. (1).

On the 1880 Census, John Henry Preas (30) was a Farmer in Bedford County, Virginia. He was living with wife, Eliza (29) and seven children: Martha L., Ann L., Walter N., Mc Henry, Ulur T., Joseph B., and Hetta N..

As mentioned earlier, some time around 1887, a number of Preas families and relations migrated from Virginia to Delta County, Texas. We have found Texas Land Tax Records showing members of the Preas family were paying taxes in 1888. John Henry Preas purchased land on 4 March 1889 and acquired more land on 13 November 1895

On the 1900 Census, John Henry Preas (51) was a Farmer in Delta County, Texas. He is living with wife, Eliza (48), and six children: George W., Lucy, John, Edgar, Era, and Joe. This one page of the census shows that a huge migration was being made from Virginia to Texas. There are a couple of Preas’ living near John Henry, Joel Robert (Henry’s Brother) and John Henry’s son, Walter Neugent Preas.

John Henry Preas died on 22 August 1909. The following was found on the Internet concerning the funeral arrangements for John Henry Preas:

**: From Rodgers & Wade Furniture Co. - Funeral Records for John H. Preas in possession of Fry & Gibbs Funeral Home; Book #6; pg. 69, Service #130, charged to J.F. Hensler, Cooper, TX; order given by same; secured by same; place of death 6 1/2 miles east of Cooper, married; aged 60 years; casket manufactured by Cincinnati; casket price $66.50; embalming $25.00; washing and dressing $1.95; flowers $2.50; total $95.95.

On the 1910 Census, Eliza Preas (59) is widowed and listed as a Farmer in Delta County, Texas. She is living with son, John (20), and son, Joseph B. (32) and his wife, Maggie (20). John is listed as a Farm Laborer; Joseph B. is listed as a Farmer.

We know that Eliza Frances Overstreet Preas made at least one pilgrimage back to Bedford County, Virginia. Melissa Foutz (of Roanoke, Virginia), sent a picture of a Howell Reunion dated 1910. It is a huge picture showing at least 150 people and Eliza is in the middle, dressed in Black. This Family Reunion had Overstreet’s, Baker’s, Howell’s, Foutz’s and many other family relations. The sad thing about this picture is that no one gave a full listing of the names of the people shown. Only a few are known.

The 1920 Census is very disappointing. I have been using Ancestry.com to view and copy all copies of Census records concerning our family. Either the Census takers made a mistake and DID NOT take the census of the Delta County, Texas area or Ancestry.com made an error and did not post any from Delta County, Texas. None of the Family members I know for a certainty lived in Delta County, Texas can be found. As of this date, 20 November 2009, Ancestory.com is the only location that has the entire 1920 census categorized and microfilmed for searching. If and when another site or opportunity arises where I can view the 1920 census and find our family members, I will update the information here.

On the 1930 Census, Eliza Preas (79), is living alone in Delta County, Texas. It shows the value of her home is $2000.00. It also shows that she was 16 years of age when she married.

In June of 1931, Eliza seems to have sold sections of her land to two of her sons, Joseph Benjamin Preas, and James Robert Preas.

Eliza Frances Overstreet Preas died on 19 October 1936. The following is information from her death certificate - Eliza died in Delta County, Texas of pellagra caused by senility. Shows the year of her birth was 1851. She was 85, widowed, and a Housewife. The informant was J. L. Wickersham.

The Preas Bible was handed down to members of the family and some pages were scanned and shared with all of us.

More on the children of John Henry Preas and Eliza Preas will be discussed later.

George Harvey Preas was born on 13 June 1851 in Bedford County, Virginia to Joseph Preas Jr. and Mahala Parker Preas. George married Elizabeth (Betty) Ann Haldren on 5 September 1879. George Preas died in October of 1919.

George H. and Elizabeth Preas had four children: James Robert, Ernest Louis, Annie O., and Jack J.

On the 1870 Census, George Harvey Preas (18) is a Farm Laborer and the oldest Male living with his mother, Mahala Preas (50) in Bedford County, Virginia.

On the 1880 Census, George H. Preas has taken over as head of household. George (39) is a Farmer, married to Betty A. (Haldren) (21). Living with him is his mother, Mahala (68), his brother, Joshua (Joel) (21), a nephew, James T. Candler (14), and a niece, Mahala Candler (12). Joshua Preas and James Candler are listed as “Farm Laborers”.

On the 1900 Census, George H. Preas (48) is a Farmer in Bedford County, Virginia. He is living with wife, Elizabeth (Bettie) (41), and three children: James R. (19), Ernie L. (9), and Annie O. (7). The census shows that Elizabeth has had 3 children; all 3 are still living. It also shows that they have a Boarder living with them.

On the 1910 Census, George H. Preas (57) is a Farmer in Bedford County, Virginia. He is living with wife, Bettie (52), and three children; Ernie (19), Annie O. (17), and Jack J (8). The census shows that Bettie has had 4 children; all 4 are still living. The last name of George is spelled, “Priest”.

George H. Preas died in October of 1919 in Bedford County, Virginia at the age of 68.

It is said that George Harris Preas owned or operated a sawmill. We have a picture that shows him at the sawmill/lumber yard. (See picture in the Preas Family Pictures Section.)

We know that George Preas kept in touch with his brothers who left for Texas. We have two pictures of George and brother, Joel Robert Preas. (See Preas Family Pictures Section.) It is not known if they were taken in Virginia or in Texas.

Amy Elizabeth Preas was born on 6 July 1853 in Bedford County, Virginia to Joseph Preas Jr. and Mahala Parker Preas. She married Benjamin W. Chandler on 14 December 1871. (See transcribed copy of Marriage Certificate at Exhibit Amy E. Preas died on 27 April 1873 in Bedford County, Virginia less than two years after her marriage to Benjamin W. Chandler.

The Bedford County, Virginia death register describes her death this way: “Elizabeth died of Dropsy at the age of 19.”

As far as we know, Amy Elizabeth Preas and Benjamin W. Chandler did not have any children.

Mahala Fannie Preas was born 12 December 1855 in Bedford County, Virginia to Joseph Preas Jr. and Mahala Parker Preas. She married Bennett R. McCarty on 2 September 1873. Mahala Fannie Preas died on 29 November 1901 in Delta County, Texas.

The known children of Mahala Fannie Preas and Bennett R. McCarty are: Daize, Elmore, Rufus Bennett, Ester, Mack, Hubert Lewis, Mattie, Walter Thomas, Ed, Clarence, Florence and Lucy.

On the 1900 Census, Bennett McCarty is a Farmer in Delta County, Texas. He is living with wife, Mahala Preas McCarty (44), and eleven children; Elmore, Rufus, Ester, Mack, Herbert, Mattie, Walter, Ed, Clarence, Florence, and Lucy. This census shows that Mahala has had 14 children; all 14 are living and had been married for 26 years. (**Note: We only know the names of 12 of their children)

Again, it looks as if Mahala Fannie and husband, Bennett McCarty also followed John Henry Preas to Texas.

Joel Robert Preas was born on 18 October 1858 in Bedford County, Virginia to Joseph Preas Jr. and Mahala Parker Preas. He married Susan A. Medlin on 29 June 1881 in Bedford County, Virginia. Joel Preas died on 15 January 1936 at the age of 78.

Joel Robert Preas has been found to use the following names: Joel, Joseph, Joshua, and James. The reason is unknown.

On the 1880 Census, Joshua (21) is a Farm Laborer in Bedford County, Virginia. He is living with his brother, George (39) and Mother, Mahala (68).

On the 1900 Census, Robert (41) is a Farmer in Delta County, Texas. He is living with wife, Susan (41).

On the 1910 Census, Joel (51) is a Farmer in Delta County, Texas. He is living with wife, Susan (51).

On the 1920 Census, Bob (61) is a Farmer in Delta County, Texas. He is living with wife, Susan (61).

On the 1930 Census, J.R. (72) is a Farmer in Delta County, Texas. This shows that he is married to a L.A. (64). **NOTE: His wife of many years, Susan Medlin, died in 1921. It is possible that he remarried or that this is not the correct J.R. but the age matches Joel and this is the only J.R. that the information matches.

Joel Robert Preas died on 15 January 1936 in Delta County, Texas. The following is from Joel’s death certificate.

Joel died in Cooper, Delta County, Texas on 15 January 1936 of chronic myocorditis. He was 77, married, and a Farmer. The name given was J. R. Preas. The name of spouse was given as 'Lou' - he may have remarried after the death of Susan Medlin Preas. J.W. Medlin was the informant - He didn't know mother's maiden name and other information. During his life, we know that Joel went by several names: Joel, Joshua, J.R., Robert, and Bob.

While in Texas, Joel Preas kept in touch with his brother George Harris Preas who lived in Virginia. There are two pictures taken, one when they were in their 20’s or 30’s, and one when they were much older (see the Preas Family Pictures section). We do not know if the pictures were taken in Texas or Virginia.

The last family we will cover here is that of John Henry Preas and his wife, Eliza Frances Overstreet.

It is this family from which the vast majority of the Texas Preas’ have descended from. John, Eliza, and family arrived in Delta County, Texas around the 1885 to1887 time frame. Not much is known of the trip that was taken by the Preas Family from Bedford County, Virginia. Most think that they took the trip by train all the way to Texas, possibly to Dallas/Ft. Worth. Still, other family members think they came part of the way by train, then purchased wagons to finish their journey to Delta County, Texas. I tend to think that the arrived in city of Paris in Lamar County, Texas by train and then made their way to the city of Cooper in Delta County, Texas by what ever means were available (probably by wagon to carry their household goods and supplies).

I found a map of the Texas Rail System dated 1877 and it shows a train line going through the city of Paris, Lamar County, Texas and road leading to the City of Cooper in Delta County, Texas.

It also must be pointed out that some think that one or more Preas family members came to Texas to check things out, such as the availability of land, the country, water supply, etc., and then returned to Virginia. Afterwards, the family began filtering into Texas. This has a ring of truth to it because we have a marriage of one of John Henry Preas’ daughter in 1885.

Regardless of how they arrived, once they did, the family seems to have stayed in the Delta County, Texas area until 1908 or 1909, when some of John Henry’s sons left and headed further west and settled in Coleman County, Texas. From this point, the Preas family fans out throughout Texas and on to California.

Martha Louise Preas was born on 1 August 1869 in Bedford County, Virginia to John Henry Preas and Eliza Overstreet Preas. She married James Ausbury Smith on 2 January 1885 in Delta County, Texas. Martha Preas died on 22 June 1910 in the small town of Pacio, in Delta County, Texas.

**NOTE - I have been unable to find my notes as to where I got Martha’s marriage date of 2 January 1885 and location, Delta County, Texas. But, if this is correct, it would be the earliest posting showing the Preas Family in Delta County, Texas and would lend credence to the thought that at least a few of the family members arrived earlier than 1887 as was previously assumed.

Martha Louise Preas and James Ausbury Smith had 11 children: Delilah May, Ora Justin, Lois Matilda, Beatrice, Ima Jane, John Coleman, Raith Howard, Bonnie May, Vida Florence, Odie Frances, and Aubrey Lyndel.

On the 1900 Census, James A. Smith (37) is a Farmer in Delta County, Texas. He is living with wife, Martha (30), seven children; John, Delilah, Odie, Ora, Lois, Beatrice, and Ima; and a brother of James Smith, Charley Smith (25). James is going by the name of “Ausbury”. This census shows that Martha has had seven children; all seven are still living.

On the 1910 Census, James A. Smith (47) is a Farmer in Delta County, Texas. He is living with wife, Martha (39), and five children: Coleman, Ora, Lois, Raith, and Aubrey. This census shows that Martha has had twelve children; only seven are still living. (**Note: two daughters, Beatrice and Ima Jane Smith died within a few days of each other in November 1900. Vida Florence Smith died 3 months after her birth in 1907. And Bonnie May smith only lived for 9 months and died in 1904.)

Martha Louise Preas Smith died on 22 June 1910 in the town of Pacio in Delta County, Texas.

Annie Elizabeth Preas was born on 25 October 1871 in Bedford County, Virginia to John Henry Preas and Eliza Overtstreet Preas. She married John W. Iglehart on 2 February 1888 in Delta County, Texas. Annie Preas died on 22 June 1894.

Walter Neugent Preas was born on 8 March 1873 in Bedford County, Virginia to John Henry Preas and Eliza Overstreet Preas. He married Bessie Elizabeth Little in 1899 in Delta County, Texas. Walter Neugent Preas died on 10 Feb 1938 in Coleman County, Texas.

Walter Neugent Preas and Bessie Elizabeth Little had 8 children: Monroe Neugent, Oscar B., Joseph Calvin, Dessie Ann, Walter Reed, Coleman L., Cleo Hollace, and Louis Henry.

Walter N. Preas and a couple of his brothers moved to Coleman County, Texas around the 1908/09 time frame. The area in Coleman is much more arid and dry than that of Delta County, Texas. Some time in the 1920’s, Walter Preas pulled up stakes again and moved to Concho County, Texas.

On the 1900 Census, Walter Neugent Preas (27) is a Farmer in Delta County, Texas. He is living with wife, Lizzie, (20). They are newly married, no children and he is going by the name of “Neugan”.

On the 1910 Census, Walter N. Preas (36) is a Farmer in Coleman County, Texas. He is living with wife, Elizabeth (35), and four children: Oscar (9), Lewis (7), Joseph (5), and Dissie (2).

On the 1920 Census – We Can NOT find Walter Neugent and family on this Census.

On the 1930 Census, Walter N. Preas (56) is a Farmer in Concho County, Texas. He is living with wife Elizabeth (56), and five children: Dessie (22), Reed (19), Coleman (17), Cleo (15), and Monroe (7). This shows they have been married for 27 years.

Walter Neugent Preas died on 10 February 1938 in Coleman County, Texas at the age of 65.

If the place of death is correct, it seems that Walter returned to Coleman County, Texas some time in the 1930’s.

Texas Eula Preas was born 25 February 1875 in Bedford County, Virginia to John Henry Preas and Eliza Overstreet Preas. She married Wesley Monroe Thompson in 1894 in Delta County, Texas. Texas Eula died on 4 November 1927.

Texas Eula Preas and Wesley Monroe Thompson had 3 children: Sybil, Clemie, and Birdie. (**NOTE: Texas Eula and Wesley Thompson may have had more children. We cannot find this family on any of the Census records after 1900. Two of their children have died before 1900.

On the 1900 Census, Wesley Thompson (28) is a Farm Laborer in Delta County, Texas. He is living with wife, Eula (25), and three children: Sudie (5), Clemie (3), and Birdie (1). This census shows that Eula has had five children: only three are still living.

Mack Henry Preas was born on 22 September 1876 in Bedford County, Virginia to John Henry Preas and Eliza Overstreet Preas. He married Lennie Mae Shelton on 8 August 1899 in Delta County, Texas. Mack Henry Preas died 24 January 1918.

Mack Henry Preas and Lennie Mae Shelton had 10 children: John Thomas “Tom”, Cora Ethel, Olive Clyde, Herman Benjamin (Doc), Oliver Adcus (Dick), William Albert (Abb), Ora Frances (Olo), Curtis Arnold (Curt), Anna Mae, and Vista Green (Pete).

On the 1900 Census, Mack Henry (33) [should be 23] is a Farmer in Delta County, Texas living with new wife, Lennie (20).

On the 1910 Census, Mack Henry (33) is a Farmer in Coleman County, Texas with wife, Lennie (30), six children: Thomas (9), Cora (7), Clyde (6), Herman (5), Adcus (3), and Albert (2) and a brother, Edgar Preas (19), living in the household.

Mack Henry Preas died on 24 January 1918 in Coleman County, Texas - Mack Henry Preas dies, the cause is not known. We have No picture of him. An Internet cemetery record shows Birth as 22 Sept 1878 and death as 12 Nov 1918.

Linnie Mae Shelton Preas, wife of Mack Henry Preas, died on 23 February 1939 in the city of Burkett in Coleman County, Texas. The following comes from Linnie Mae Preas’ death certificate.

“Lennie Mae Preas died in Coleman County, Texas of apoplexy. She was 59, widowed, and a housewife. The informant was H.A. Minor.”

The following is the Obituary of Lennie Mae Shelton Preas - transcribed from Newspaper clipping by Randy Briscoe. "Funeral Services were held Friday, February 24 at North Baptist Church for Lennie May Priess, 59 of Coleman. She died suddenly early Thursday morning, February 23, at the home of her daughter, H.A. Minor of Coleman. Reverend Round was assisted by Rev. Shepherd. Internment was at Burkett. Mrs. Priess was born October 25, 1879 in Mississippi and came to Coleman County 33 yerars ago. She was a member of the North Baptist Church. Surviving are her brothers, W.A., J.G. and G.T. Shelton, one sister Mrs. J.W. Hunter, sons are Tom Priess of Bangs, W.A. Priess of Big Springs, H.B. Priess of Winters, C.A Priess of Talpa, O.A. Priess of Silver Valley, daughters are H.A. Minor of Coleman, Anna May Crenshaw of Coleman, Mrs. Ora Jones of Tahoca. All were present for the last rites except Mrs. Jones who was ill. M.H. Priess, her husband died 1918. Flowers were in charge of Mrs. Guy Cullens, Mrs. C.L. Henderson and Mrs. Joe Priess. Pall bearers were Owen Priess, M.K. Maples, Lewis Priess, J.W. Hunter, Mose Maples and Arlin Hunter.

The cemetery record on net shows Birth date as 25 Oct 1879 - and Middle name spelled MAE - not MAY.

Joseph Benjamin Preas was born 22 November 1878 in Bedford County, Virginia to John Henry Preas and Eliza Overstreet Preas. He married Maggie Jane Burnett in 1901 in Delta County, Texas. Joseph B. Preas died on 15 June 1943 in Delta County, Texas.

Joseph Benjamin Preas and Maggie Jane Burnett had 7 children: Benjamin Artford, Verona Ozel, Francis, Floyd Golden, Calvin Hollis, Alfred Hersel, and Twyman Bentley.

On the 1910 Census, Joseph B. Preas (31) and wife, Maggie (20), are staying with his Mother, Eliza (59), who is a Widow. Joseph is a Farmer in Delta County, Texas. His brother, John William Preas (20), is also living with mother, Eliza.

12 Sep 1918 - World War I Draft Registration, shows Joseph Benjamin Preas’ birth day as 26 Nov 1877. His occupation was farming and he lists his wife as closest relative.

On the 1920 Census, Joseph B. Preas (42) is a Farmer in Delta County, Texas. He is living with wife, Maggie (30), and five children: Golden (9), Calvin (8), Alfred (6), Gomine (4), and Francis (1 ½)

On the 1930 Census, Joseph B. Preas (52) is a Farmer in Delta County, Texas. He is living with wife, Maggie (41), and seven children: Golden (19), Calvin (18), Alfred (16), Twyman (14), Frances (11), Ardford (9), and Verona (8).

Joseph Benjamin Preas died on 15 Jun 1943 in Delta County, Texas. The following comes from his death certificate.

“Joseph Benjamin Preas died in Delta County, Texas of a cerebral hemorrhage. He was 64, married, and a Farmer. Shows his birth date as 24 Nov 1878 - I have it as 22 Nov 1878. The informant looks to have been his son, F.G. Preas.

**Note: On Joseph son's, Twyman Bentley's death certificate, it shows Father's name as Joe Bentley Preas - information given by a Mary Preas.

Hettie N. Preas was born on 22 March 1880 in Bedford County, Virginia to John Henry Preas and Eliza Overstreet Preas. She married Jacob Monroe Wood about 1897 in Delta County, Texas. Hettie Preas died 24 August 1934.

On the 1900 Census, Jacob Wood (20) was found by the name of "Pete" and is a Farmer in Delta County, Texas. He is living with wife, Hettie (20). It shows they have been married 3 years and Hettie has had two children, but none are found on this Census.

On the 1910 Census, Jacob Wood (30) is a Farmer in Coleman County, Texas. He is living with wife, Hettie (30). The census is very faded, it shows they have been married 14 years and that Hettie has had six children but does not list any as still surviviing - and no children are listed on this census.

On the 1920 Census, Jacob Wood (39) is a Farmer in Coleman County, Texas. He is living with his wife, Hettie (39), and two children: Viola (9) and Orell (6). Jacob and parents were born in Illinois.

On the 1930 Census, Jacob Wood(50) is Farmer in Sevier County, Arkansas. He is living with wife, Hettie (50), and an adopted son, James (5).

Hettie N. Preas died on 24 August 1934 in the town of Lake Creek, Delta County Texas.

Died on 24 August 1934 in Delta County, Texas of pneumonia. She was married, 54, and a housewife. It shows birth day/month as 22 March 1880. It also shows the year of death was 1934, not 1935 that I have on record. I have changed both dates to reflect what is shown on this Certificate. The informant was husband, J. M. Wood.

James Robert Preas was born on 20 January 1882 in Bedford County, Virginia to John Henry Preas and Eliza Overstreet Preas. He married Myrtie Mae Jones on 19 June 1899. His second marriage was to Mary Ann Collins in May 1920 in Bay City, Texas. James Robert Preas died on 19 February 1970 in the city of Baytown, Harris County, Texas.

James Robert Preas and Myrtie Mae Jones had 7 children: Roy Creston, John William, Era Jewel, Nelvin, James Audren, Orville Francis (Jack), and Tucker.

James Robert Preas and Mary Ann Collins had 3 children: Annie Lois, Robbie Eunice, and Vera Mae.

On the 1900 Census, Robert Preas (20) is "working for wages" in Delta County, Texas. He and wife, Myrtie (16), are living with Myrtie's parents, George Jones (43) and Nancy Jones (29). Robert's last name is spelled "Prease".

On the 1910 Census, Robert Preas (28) is a trackman at the Railroad shop in Childress County, Texas. He is living with wife, Murta (25), and 3 children: John (9), Era (4), and Creston (2). The census shows that Murta has had four children: only three are still living.

On the 1920 Census, Robert J Preas (36) is a Car Repairman for Strain Railroad in Brazoria County, Texas. He is a widower living with 4 children: Jewel (14), Preston (11), Audren (8), and Orville (3).

On the 1930 Census, J.R. Preas (48) is a Cook "Dredge" in Harris County, Texas. He is living with 2^nd wife, Annie (43), and six children: Adrian (18), Tucker (15), Orville (13), Annie Lois (9), Robbie Eunice (6), and Vera May (5).

James Robert Preas died on 19 February 1970 at the age of 88. The following is information from the James’ death certificate:

James died at the San Jacinto Methodist Hospital, in Baytown, Harris County, Texas of heart disease. He was 88, widowed, and a retired cook. Shows his Mother's maiden name as Martha Overstreet. The informant was his daughter, Annie Lois Preas Trantham.

George Washington Preas was born on 11 April 1884 in Bedford County, Virginia to John Henry Preas and Eliza Overstreet Preas. He married Lula Porter in 1906 in Delta County, Texas. George Washington Preas died on 11 January 1959.

George Washington Preas and Lula Porter had 3 children: Olan Raphel, Charlie L., and Conway Arnold.

On the 1910 Census, George Preas (26) is a Farmer in Delta County, Texas living with wife, Lula (20), and son, Charlie L (2).

12 Sep 1918 - on World War I Draft Registration card he has birth year as1884 - I had it as 1883 - changed the date to match this. It shows that his occupation is farming and works for a Peter Gill. His wife, Lula, was listed as closest relative.

On the 1920 Census, George Preas (35) is a trackman for the Baux Mines Rail Road. He is living with wife Lula (31), and three: Charley (12), Olan (9), and Conway (1).

On the 1930 Census, George Preas (47) is a Farm Laborer living in Mitchell County, Texas and living with wife, Lula (40), and three sons: Charley (21), Orin (18), and Conway (10). **this shows George born in Arkansas but that is false -- unless he was born there as his family was on the way to Delta County, Texas.**

George Washington Preas died on 11 January 1959 in the city of Big Spring, Howard County, Texas. The following is from his death certificate.

11 January 1959 - Death Certificate - shows George died at home in Big Spring, Howard County, Texas - says he was born in Cooper, Texas, was a retired farmer, widowed, and died of a coronary occlusion (heart attack) at the age of 74 years 9 months. The informant was his son, Charlie Preas.

Charles Wesley Preas was born on 22 March 1885 in Delta County, Texas to John Henry Preas and Eliza Overstreet Preas. He died just 9 days later on 31 March 1885.

Lucy Myrtle Preas was born on 20 May 1887 in Delta County, Texas to John Henry Preas and Eliza Overstreet Preas. She married John Lawson Wickersham in 1910 in Delta County, Texas. Lucy died on 3 December 1960.

Lucy Myrtle Preas and John Lawson Wickersham had 4 children: Guila Francis, Imogene, Boyce Lowell, and John Lawson.

On the 1910 Census, Lawson Wickersham (23) is a Farmer in Delta County, Texas. He and wife, Lucy (22), are living with Lawson’s widowed mother, Julia (48), and two of his brothers.

On the 1920 Census, John Wickersham (33) is a Farmer in Delta County, Texas. He is living with wife, Lucy (32), three children: Guila (7), Imogene (5), and Boyce (3), and John's widowed Mother, Julia (55). This shows John's father was born in Missouri - mother born in Texas.

On the 1930 Census, John (43) is a Farmer in Delta County, Texas. He is living with wife, Lucy (42), and four children: Guila (17), Imogene (15), Boyce (12), and John (6).

Lucy Myrtle Preas Wickersham died on 8 October 1974 in the city of Cooper, Delta County, Texas.

Died on 8 October 1974 at the Delta Nursing Home, Cooper, Delta County, Texas of terminal pneumonia. She was 87, widowed, and a housewife. Shows her Mother's name as Liza Francis Overstreet. The informant was a Mrs. E. E. McLemore.

John William Preas was born on 10 May 1889 in Delta County, Texas to John Henry Preas and Eliza Overstreet Preas. He married Sallie Cleveland Coolie on 19 September 1910. John W. Preas died on 21 April 1977.

John William Preas and Sallie Cleveland Coolie had 6 children: Dovie Ruth, Ozely Eldon, John Wildon, Ruby Inez, Lendon Elisha, and Jewel Halloween.

On the 1910 Census, John (20) is a Farm Laborer in Delta County, Texas. He is staying with his widowed mother, Eliza (59).

5 June 1917 - World War I Draft Registration Card - shows he is a Farmer - has a wife & two children - and filled out in Delta County, Texas.

On the 1920 Census, John (30) is a Farmer in Delta County, Texas. He is living with wife, Sallie (27), four children: John (8), Lendon (6), Wildon (2), and Ruby (1), along with a black male as a hired man, and three black females as servants.

On the 1930 Census, John (40) is a laborer at the IA Plant in Lamar County, Texas. He is living with wife, Sallie (37), and six children: Eldon (18), Lendon (16), Wildon (12), Ruby (11), Jewel (7), and Ruth (4).

“Cooley Preas, J.W.'s wife, was born about 1 mile from Preas homestead. The Preas homestead was on Brushy Creek on southeast side on slight hill. Sallie was born in area called Bloody Hollow. The neighbors across the road from Preas were the Kerns. Will Kern married Lilly Cooley, sister of Sallie.

Well, the Kerns and the Preas' had a better income or standing than the Cooleys. So Preas and Kern families sort of looked down on Cooleys. Family politics now start. I don't think Papa had much help from Sallie farming or he wasn't a good farmer. He had scraped by barely, and in 1925 went under. Eliza, not caring much for daughter in law, would not loan John any money. So John borrowed money from the Kerns. Papa could not pay off loan, and bad feelings started between families. My father, of course, knew Eliza. He had said that she and John could smooth out differences as Eliza had money. So John and Eliza had very little dealing before her death. My father said both Papa and Eliza were both bull headed.”

John William Preas died on 21 April 1977 in the city of Paris, Lamar County, Texas.

Edgar Combs Preas was born on 7 March 1891 in Delta County, Texas to John Henry Preas and Eliza Overstreet Preas. He married Nannie Ballard Taylor, date unknown. Edgar Preas died on 25 December 1918.

6 June 1918 - WW I Draft registration - listed as a Farmer - shows he has a wife and one child. Apparently, Edgar died 6 months later on Christmas day, 1918. (possibly of Influenza Epedimic)

On the 1920 Census, Nannie Preas (24) is a widow in Delta County, Texas. She and son, Opal (8), are living with her brother, John Tayler (33), and mother, Mother, Sarah B. (59), brother Lewis (22) and sister, Zeda (19).

On the 1930 Census, Nannie Preas (35) is a widow in Delta County, Texas. She and son, Opal (17), are living with her Brother - John Tayler (44) and family. I had Nannie's last name as Ballard, but she is living in her "Brothers" household along with her Mother, Sarah Tayler.

Era Frances Preas was born on 9 January 1893 in Delta County, Texas to John Henry Preas and Eliza Overstreet Preas. Era Preas died on 7 September 1905 in Delta County, Texas at the age of 12.

There were two brothers that died in 1918 at relatively young ages, Mack Henry Preas at 48 and Edgar Combs Preas at 27. During this time, an Influenza (Flu) epidemic was running rampant throughout the world. Millions of people died, the true number in the United States isn’t known for sure since many rural areas never reported the illness. I think it is very possible that this is what Mack and Edgar may have died from.