November 19, 2023
Pages 79-85
Whole Number 11
THE SPARKS FAMILY OF PITTSYLVANIA COUNTY, VIRGINIA
by William Perry Johnson
It was during the American Revolution, in 1778 to be exact, that the Sparkses settled in Pittsylvania County, Virginia. Prior to that time, the family had made its home in Maryland, in the counties of Anne Arundel, Baltimore, and Prince George's. In Prince George's County, the family appears to have resided near the town of Upper Marlboro, which lies about fifteen miles southeast of Washington, D.C., and about the same distance southwest of Annapolis, Maryland.
Probate records for Anne Arundel County, Maryland, on file in the Maryland Hall of Records, in Annapolis, show that a 17. Thomas Sparks died intestate in that county in or near the year 1727. The inventory of estate for Thomas Sparks is dated April 20, 1727, and the papers show that he had "No Relations." (For some reason, a wife and children apparently did not count as "relations" in these cases.) The account, dated 1732, was made by Leonard Hollyday of Prince George's County, Maryland, as administrator of Thomas Sparks late of Anne Arundel County, deceased. This 17. Thomas Sparks may or may not be the father of the 17.1 Thomas Sparks who appears on the records of Anne Arundel County a generation later.
Deed books for Anne Arundel County, Maryland, show seven Sparks deeds, all for one 17.1 Thomas Sparks. He first appears on record in 1748, when he purchased 162 acres, and in 1752 he obtained 430 more acres of land. by 1756, he had sold all of his land in Anne Arundel County and was living in Baltimore County, Maryland, having removed there late in 1755 or early in 1756. No other persons named Sparks appear in Anne Arundel records except Elizabeth Sparks, wife of 17.1 Thomas Sparks, and the 18. Josiah Sparks mentioned below.
The records of St. Anne's Parish, Annapolis, Anne Arundel County, Maryland, contain two Sparks items, as follows:
18. Josiah Sparks married July 15, 1749 to Penelope Brown, by the Revd. Mr. Andrew Lendrum.
17.1.4 Samuel Sparks, son of 17.1 Thomas Sparks and Elizabeth MNU, his wife, was born July 29, 1749.
Both 17.1 Thomas Sparks and 18. Josiah Sparks, with their families, removed to Baltimore County, Maryland, and were members of St. John's and St. George's P. E. Church, Harford (then Baltimore) County, Maryland.
18. Josiah Sparks was born 1729 and died, intestate, in 1765, Baltimore County, Maryland, with Penelope (Brown) Sparks as administratrix.
Records of St. John's and St. George's P. E. Church, afore-mentioned, show that on the 10th of April, 1770, Aquilla Wyle married "Pine" Sparks, widow of 18. Josiah Sparks, and by 1781 they were living in Shrewsbury Twp., York County, Pennsylvania.
18. Josiah and Penelope Sparks had five sons:
18.1 Francis Sparks,
18.2 Josiah Sparks,
18.3 Elijah Sparks,
18.4 Thomas Sparks,
18.5 Matthew Sparks
(A record of Josiah Sparks, Sr., and his descendants, will appear in a forthcoming issue of The Sparks Quarterly.) The estate papers for Josiah Sparks, 1765, show that he had "No Relation in this province but Thos. Sparks.")
(No other records for Thomas Sparks have been found in Baltimore County, except that in 1760 he was granted 38 acres in Baltimore County, called the Hawk's Nest.)
17.1 Thomas Sparks was born ca. 1711, and was either the father (by an earlier wife than Elizabeth) of Josiah Sparks (born ca. 1729), or his elder brother??--probably the former. [Webmaster Note: It is unlikely that 17.1 Thomas (b. 1711) was the father of 18. Josiah (b. 1729)]
[Webmaster Note: If Josiah Sparks was, indeed, the son of of 17.1 Thomas Sparks, then his number would change from "18" to "17.1.x", and there is already a 17.1.x Josiah Sparks in that family. Unless they are the same person.]
The only other Sparks item on the records of St. John's and St. George's P. E. Church is the marriage, on the 3rd of September 1762, of Phill Lock Ellcott and Sarah Sparks. Sarah was probably a daughter of 17.1 Thomas and Elizabeth Sparks.
There are eleven Sparks deeds or other instruments on record in Prince George's County, Maryland, as follows:
1. Book T, page 682 - 7 February 1738 - John Courts of Charles County, Maryland, Gentleman, to Thomas Sparks, Senior, of the county aforesaid, planter - 21 year lease - 250 acres part of a tract of land lying in Prince George's County near Rock Creek and known by the name of Clean Drinking. /S/ John Courts, Thomas his T mark Sparks. Witnesses: Robt. Yates, Jno. Biscoe. Proven 24 October 1738.
2. Book Y, page 197 - 25 June 1740 - Charles Carroll, of City of Annapolis, Maryland, Esquire, to Thomas Sparke of Prince George's County, Maryland, planter 21 year lease - 100 acres - part of a tract of land called Cloven Couse. /S/ Charles Carroll. Witnesses: Danil Carroll, Saml Beall, Senr. Proven 25 June 1740.
3. Book EE, page 631 - 13 December 1748 - William Fields of Prince George's County, Maryland, planter, to Mathew Sparks of same, planter - 3000 lbs. of tobacco - 68 acres, called Bedfordshire Carrier. /S/ William his X mark Fields. Witnesses: B. Young, L. Young. Proven 13 December 1748.
4. Book RR, page 67 - 27 August 1760 - Benjamin Beall, planter, and wife Sarah, of Prince George's County, Maryland, to Matthew Sparks of same, planter - 5 Shillings 109 acres, called Smith's Neglect. /S/ Benjamin Beall, Sarah Beall. Witnesses: Morda, Jacobs, Robert Tyler. Proven 27 August 1760.
5. Book TT, page 113 At the request of Matthew Sparks the following Certificate of a Stray was recorded November 25th, 1763. "Novr. 19th, 1763 - Mathew Sparkes brought Before me the subscriber a Small Black Stallion Colt about Ten hand high has a Small Stare in his forehead he Complains that he Trespasses upon his Inclosure.andquot; /S/ Chrisr. Lowndes.
6. Book BB2. page 228 - 11 November 1767 - John Banks, Sr., of Frederick County, Maryland, planter, to Thomas Sparks, planter, of Prince George's County, Maryland 55 Pounds 100 acres, called Quee Beck. /S/ John Banks (and wife Mary).
7. Book CC2. page 136 - February 2, 1775 - James Beck, and wife Rebecca, of Prince George's County, Maryland, planter, to 17.2 "Matthew Spark of Thomasandquot; of same 50 Pounds 100 acres, called Pleasant Spring Enlarged. /S/ James Beck, Rebecca Beck. Witnesses~ Chris, Lowndes, Mary Henderson. Proven February 2, 1775.
8. Book CC2, page 177 - At the request of 17.1.4 Samuel Sparks the following Certificate of a Stray was recorded August 21st 1775. "Prince George's County, Ss. I do hereby Certify that Samuel Sparks brought before me this day a Horse with the following Marks which he took up at Mrs. Berrys Plantation about 14 miles from Upper Marlborough a Bright Bay 13? hands high Branded on the near Shoulder IW natural Pacer and Short Scraped Tail taken up four Weeks ago.andquot;
9. Book CC2, page 337 - 15 March 1777 - 17.2 Matthew Sparks, Sr., of Prince George's County, Maryland, planter, and wife Elinor, to Richard Beall, son of Ninian, Sr., of same - 100 Pounds - 109 acres, called Smith's Neglect. /S/ Matthew his X mark Sparks, Elinor her X mark Sparks. Witnesses: Josa. Beall, Chrisr. Lowndes. Proven 15 March 1777.
10. Book CC2, page 380 - 30 August 1777 - 17.1 Thomas Sparks of Prince George's County, Maryland, planter, to Solomon Groves of same, planter - 150 Pounds - 100 acres, called Quebeck. /S/ Thos. Sparks, and (wife) Elizabeth Sparks. Witnesses: Chrisr. Lowndes, James Beck.
11. Book CC2, page 396 - 5 April 1777 - 17.1.2 Matthew Sparks of Thomas, of Prince George's County, Maryland, to John Hamilton, Sr., of same - 80 Pounds - 100 acres - part of a tract called Pleasant Spring Enlarged. /S/ Matthew Sparks, and (wife) Margery Sparks. Witnesses: Jos. Beall, Chris. Lowndes. Proven 5 April 1777.
In view of the fact that the counties of Prince George's and Anne Arundel adjoin, it is supposed that the Thomas Sparks who leased land in Prince George's County in 1738 and 1740 is identical with the Thomas Sparks who bought land in Anne Arundel County in 1748 and 1752, sold out by 1756, removed 1755/6 to Baltimore County, and by 1767 to Prince George's County. This is further supported by the fact that the wife's name in each instance was Elizabeth.
The 1750 Rent Rolls for Prince George's County, Maryland, list but one Sparks: Mr. Matthew Sparks, Bedfordshire Carrier, 68 acres. (Among the land owned by Mr. Caleb Dorsey was Sparks Chance and Sparks Round.)
The Register of St. John's or Piscataway Parish, Prince George's County, Maryland, contains the following Sparks data:
Children of 17.2 Matthew and Elinor Sparks:
17.2.1 Matthew Sparks, Jr. born ca. 1749
1750-60. He married Kezia Stone. Died prior to July 12, 1811.
17.2.3 Sarah Sparks born May 23, 1753
17.2.7 Josiah Sparks born August 26, 1761
17.2.8 Truelove Sparks born July 21, 1764
Children of 17.1.2 Matthew and Margery Sparks:
17.1.2.5 Elizabeth Sparks, bapt. November 2, 1766
17.1.2.6 Jane Sparks, bapt. November 6, 1768
In the above Register, Truelove Sparks is designated as a female, but is believed to have been a male and identical with the True Love Sparks who married 1788 in Pittsylvania County, Virginia, to Jane Sparks, and was living in 1790 in Spartanburgh County, South Carolina.
In Volume I of Brambaug's Maryland Records, is a copy of the 1776 Census of Maryland. Among the inhabitants of St. John's and Prince George's Parishes, Prince George's County, Maryland, listed on 31 August 1776, are two Sparks families:
17.1 Thomas Sparks, age 65: 2 males, ages 18 and 14; Elizabeth Sparks, age 58; and 2 females aged 16 and 14; born ca. 1711.
17.2 Mathew Sparks, age 61: 5 males, ages 27, 15, 11, and 7; Elinor Sparks, age 45; 2 females, ages 23 and 3; born ca. 1715.
Thus, there were three Sparks families in Prince George's County, Maryland.
17.1 Thomas Sparks born ca. 1711 and wife Elizabeth MNU born ca. 1718; bought 100 acres in 1767 and sold out in 1777.
17.2 Matthew Sparks born ca. 1715 and wife Elinor MNU born ca. 1731; bought 68 acres in 1748 and 109 acres in 1760; sold the 209 acres in 1777 (undoubtedly sold the 68 acres also, but grantee failed to have the deed recorded).
17.1.2 Matthew Sparks son of 17.1 Thomas Sparks married ca. 1765 to Margery MNU; bought 100 acres in 1775; sold out in 1777.
These Sparks families, having sold out in 1777, removed from Prince George's County, Maryland to Pittsylvania County, Virginia, where they obtained land in 1778.
Pittsylvania County, Virginia. Deed Book 5, page 211- February 25, 1778 - Sylvester Adams and wife Nansey, of Pittsylvania County, Virginta, to Thomas Sparks of same 110 Shillings (acreage not given) on both sides of Sandy River, /S/ Sylvester Adams Witnesses: George Adams. Edward Cook, Jonathan Montgomery Church. Proven 17 August 1779 (This is the first and earliest record of the Sparks family in Pittsylvania County, Virginia.
Land Grant Book E, page 441 Richmond, Virginia, shows that on September 1, 1780, Matthew Sparks, for 35 Shillings was granted 305 acres in Pittsylvania County, Virginia, on branches of Sandy River by survey dated 13 March 1778. Same book, page 451, shows that on same date Thomas Sparks, for 15 Shillings, was granted 137 acres in same county, on branch of Strawberry Creek, by survey dated 28 May 1780.
The third land grant to a Sparks in Pittsylvania County, Virginia, is to be found in Land Grant Book H, page 250. On 3rd of July 1783 Matthew Sparks, for 2 Pounds and 10 Shillings, was granted 496 acres in Pittsylvania County, on both sides of Mortons Spring, branch of Sandy River, by survey dated 30 April 1780.
The fourth and last land grant is on record in Land Grant Book 51, page 388. Warrant No. 14,050, issued 30 August 1782, and on 6 July 1803 granted to Thomas Sparks, 52 acres in Pittsylovania County, Virginia, on Bean's Creek Mountain, Surveyed April 1, 1902.
Pittsylvania County, Virginia, tax lists, both land and personal property, begin in 1782 and extend to middle 1800's. Below is a listing of the Sparkses given on the land tax lists from 1782 to 1820:
1782 - Matthew Sparks - 796 acres
...........Thomas Sparks - 350 acres
1783 - (Alterations - Matthew Sparks - 496 acres
1784 - (Alterations - none for Sparkses)
1785 - (Alterations - Thomas Sparks - 162 acres from Thomas Robertson
.................................Mathew Sparks, 496 acres Ditto in Ditto (i.e."Rong charged")
1786 - Thomas Sparks - 162 acres
............Samuel Sparks - 100 acres
............Thomas Sparks - 350 acres
............Matthew Sparks - 796 acres
...........(Alterations and Mistakes for 1786 - Samuel Sparks, 100 acres from Thomas Robertson)
1787 - Matthew Sparks - 300 acres
..........Thomas Sparks - 350 acres
..........Samuel Sparks - 100 acres
..........Thomas Sparks - 162 acres
1788 - Thomas Sparks - 350 acres
...........Samuel Sparks - 100 acres
...........Matthew Sparks - 300 acres
...........Thos. Sparks (T. Robinson) - 163 acres
1789 - Thomas Sparks - 350 acres.......................(Note that the two tracts owned by Shelton and Leonard
.......... Matthew Sparks - 300 acres......................Sparks in 1789 totaled 163 acres, the tract owned by Thomas
..........(Davd. Shelton (Tho. Sparks) - 80 acres....Sparks; this Thomas Sparks apparently died ca. 1789 and his
..........(Leon. Sparks (Tho. Sparks) - 83 acres.....land was divided between Shelton and Leonard Sparks.)
1790 - Thomas Sparks - 350 acres
...........Matthew Sparks - 300 acres
..........(Davd. Shelton (T.S.) - 80 acres
..........(Lenard Sparkes (same) - 83 acres
1791 - Thomas Sparks - 350 acres
1792 - Thomas Sparks - 350 acres
1793 - Thomas Sparks - 350 acres
1794 - Thomas Sparks - 350 acres
...........Mathew Sparks (S) - 100 acres
1795 - Thomas Sparks - 350 acres
...........Mathew Sparks (S) - 100 acres
1796 - Missing
1797 - Thomas Sparks - 350 acres
...........Mathew Sparks - 100 acres
1798 - Thomas Sparks - 350 acres
...........Mathew Sparks 100 - acres
1799 - Thomas Sparks - 350 acres
...........Mathew Sparks - 100 acres
1800 - Thomas Sparks - 350 acres
...........Mathew Sparks -100 acres
1801 - Thomas Sparks - 350 acres
...........Mathew Sparks - 100 acres
1802 - Thomas Sparks - 350 acres
...........Mathew Sparks - 100 acres
1803 - Thomas Sparks - 350 acres
...........Matthew Sparks - 100 acres
1804 - Thomas Sparks - 350 acres
...........Matthew Sparks - 100 acres
1805 - Mathew Sparks - 100 acres
...........Thos. Sparks-do. (L.P.) - 52 acres
...........Mathew Sparks - 100 acres
1806 - Matthew Sparks - 100 acres
..........Thomas Sparks - Bal.: - 298 acres
..........Thomas Sparks - do. (L. Pat.) - 52 acres
..........Matthew Sparks - 100 acres
1807 - Mathew Sparks - 100 acres
...........Thomas Sparks - 298 acres
...........Thomas Sparks - 52 acres
...........Mathew Sparks - 100 acres
1808 - Missing
1809 - Mathew Sparks - 100 acres
...........Thomas Sparks - 298 acres
...........Thomas Sparks - 52 acres
...........Mathew Sparks - 100 acres
...........John Sparks - 500 acres
1810 - Thomas Sparks - Balance: 198 acres
...........Same - 52 acres
...........George Sutherland, Ext. John Sparkes to pay - 100 acres
...........Mathew Sparks, deceased - 200 acres
1811 - Thomas Sparks - 222 acres
...........Matthew Sparks, deceased - 200 acres
1812 - Matthew Sparks, deceased - 200 acres - South side of Sandy River
...........Thomas Sparks - 222 acres - Cattail fork Beens Creek
1813 - Thomas Sparks - 222 acres - Cattail fork Beens Creek
...........Matthew Sparks, deceased - 200 acres - S. side Sandy River
1814 - Thomas Sparks - 222 acres - Cattail fork Beens Do. [Creek] - 23 miles southwest of courthouse.
............Matthew Sparks, deceased - 200 acres - S. side Sandy River - 20 miles south of courthouse.
1815 - Matthew Sparks, deceased - 200 acres - S. side (Sandy) River - 20 miles south of courthouse.
...........Thomas Sparks - 222 acres - Cattail fork of Beens Creek - 23 miles southwest of courthouse.
1816 - Thomas Sparks - 222 acres - Cat tail fork of Beens Creek - 23 miles southwest of courthouse.
...........Mathew Sparks, deceased - 200 acres - S. side Sandy River - 20 miles south of courthouse.
1817 - Mathew Sparks, deceased - 200 acres - S. side of Sandy River - 20 miles southwest of courthouse.
...........Thomas Sparks - 27 acres - Sandy River - 18 miles southwest of courthouse
1818 - Thomas Sparks - 27 acres - Sandy River - 18 miles southwest of courthouse
............Mathew Sparks, deceased - 200 acres - s. side Sandy River - 20 miles southwest of courthouse.
1819 - Mathew Sparks, deceased - 200 acres - S. side Sandy River 20 miles southwest of courthouse
...........Thomas Sparks - 27 acres - Sandy River - 18 miles southwest of courthouse
1820 - Mathew Sparks, deceased - 200 acres - S. side Sandy River 20 miles southwest of courthouse
...........Thomas Sparks 27 acres Sandy River - 18 miles southwest of courthouse
[Editor's note: Mr. Johnson will continue his article on the Sparks Family of Pittsylvania in the March, 1956, issue of the Quarterly, Whole No. 13. Members who descend from this family are urged to send any data which they may have on the family to Mr. Johnson so that he may incorporate it in his sketch.]
Pages 109-121
Whole Number 13
The previous installment of this article included a listing of all Sparkses given on the land tax lists of Pittsylvania County, Virginia, from 1782 to 1820. Compare that listing with the following, which is a listing of all Sparkses given on the personal property tax lists of Pittsylvania County, Virginia, from 1782 to 1820:
Property Tax Lists
| Year | Sparks White tithe > 21 | White tithe > 21 | Stock |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1782 | Matthew Sparks | 1 | 1 horse; 6 cattle |
| Thomas Sparks | 1 same | 4 horses; 7 cattle | |
| Matthew Sparks | 1 same | 3 horses; 7 cattle | |
| Thomas Sparks | 1 same | 3 horses; 6 cattle | |
| Ellender Sparks | 0 same | 1 horse; 7 cattle | |
| 1783 | Matthew Sparks | 1 | 1 horse ; 5 cattle |
| Thomas Sparks | 1 same | 2 horses; 8 cattle | |
| Ellenor Sparks | 0 same | 2 horses; 6 cattle | |
| Matthew Sparks | 1 same | 2 horses; 5 cattle | |
| Thomas Sparks | 0 same | 2 horses; 5 cattle | |
| Leanard Sparks | 0 same | 1 horse;4 cattle | |
| 1784 | Matthew Sparks | 1 | 1horse; 4 cattle |
| Leonard Sparks | 1 same | 2 horses; 4 cattle | |
| Thomas Sparks | 1 same | 1 horse; 6 cattle | |
| Matthew Sparks | 1 same | 1 horse; 4 cattle | |
| Matthew Sparks | 1 same | 0 horses;3 cattle | |
| Thomas Sparks | 1 same | 3 horses; 10 cattle | |
| Thomas Sparks | 1 same | 0 horses; 0 cattle | |
| 1785 | Thomas Sparks | 1 white tithe > 21 | 3 horses; 8 cattle |
| Thomas Sparks, Sr. | 1 same | 2 horses; 5 cattle | |
| Thomas Sparks, Jr. | 0 same | 1 horse; 0 cattle | |
| Matthew Sparks | 1 same | 2 horses; 5 cattle | |
| 1786 | Mathew Sparks | 1 white tithe > 21 | 2 horses; 6 cattle |
| Thomas Sparks | 1 same | 2 horses; 3 cattle | |
| Samuel Sparks | 1 same | 2 horses; 4 cattle | |
| Leonard Sparks | 1 same | 2 horses; 3 cattle | |
| Josiah Sparks | 1 same | 2 horses; 4 cattle | |
| Mathew Sparks | 1 same | 1 horse; 4 cattle | |
| Thomas Sparks | 0 same | 2 horses; 8 cattle | |
| 1787 | Mathew Sparks | 1 white > 16 and < 21 | 3 horses; 9 cattle |
| Leonard Sparks | 1 white > 16 and < 21 | 2 horses; 1 cattle | |
| Thomas Sparks | 1 white > 16 and < 21 | 3 horses; 3 cattle | |
| Mathew Sparks | 1 white > 16 and < 21 | 1 horses; 6 cattle | |
| Thomas Sparks | 1 white > 16 and < 21 | 3 horses; 6 cattle | |
| Elenor Sparks (Names of white tithes over 21; None) | 1 white > 16 and < 21 | 1 horse; 5 cattle | |
| Josiah Sparks | 1 white > 16 and < 21 | 1 horses; 0 cattle | |
| 1788 | Lenard Sparkes | 1 white male > 16 | 3 horses |
| John Sparkes | 1 same; | 1 horse | |
| Thomas Sparkes, Sr. | 1 same; | 3 horses | |
| Matthew Sparkes | 1 same; | 4 horses | |
| Thomas Sparkes, Jr. | 1 same; | 1 same; | |
| Josiah Sparkes | 1 same ; | 1 horse | |
| Ellener Sparkes | 0 same ; | 1 horse | |
| Matthew Sparkes, Jr. | 1 same; | 2 horses | |
| Samuel Sparkes | 1 same; | 1 horse | |
| 1789 | Lenard Sparkes | 1 white male > 16 | 1 horse |
| Matthew Sparkes | 1 same | 3 horses | |
| Thomas Sparkes | 1 same | 2 horses | |
| Josiah Sparkes | 1 same | 1 horse | |
| Ellenare Sparkes | 0 same | 1 horse | |
| Samuel Sparkes | 1 same | 1 horse | |
| 1790 | Matthew Sparks | 1 white male > 16 | 4 horses |
| Thomas Sparks | same; | 2 horses | |
| Josiah Sparks | same; | 1 horse | |
| Ellenor Sparks | same; | 2 horses | |
| Lenard Sparks | same; | 2 horses | |
| 1791 | Lenard Sparks | 1 white male > 16 | 1 horse |
| Josiah & Elenor Sparks | same; | 4 horses | |
| Thomas Sparks | same; | 3 horses | |
| Matthew Sparks | same; | 3 horses | |
| 1792 | Matthew Sparkes | 1 white male > 16 | 3 horses |
| Josiah Sparks | same; | 1 horse | |
| Thomas Sparkes | same; | 3 horses | |
| John Sparkes | same; | 1 horse | |
| 1793 | Matthew Sparks | 1 white male > 16 | 4 horses |
| Thomas Sparks | same; | 2 horses | |
| Josiah Sparks | same; | 3 horses | |
| 1794 | Thomas Sparkes | 1 white male > 16 | 2 horses |
| Mathew Sparkes | same; | 4 horses | |
| Josiah Sparkes | same; | 1 horse | |
| Ellenor Sparkes | same; | 1 horse | |
| 1795 | Matthew Sparks | 1 white male > 16 | 5 horses |
| Josiah Sparks | same; | 1 horse | |
| Ellanor Sparks | same; | 1 horse | |
| Thomas Sparks | same; | 3 horses | |
| 1796 | Matt. Sparks, "d ferd" | 2 white males >16 | 3 horses |
| Revd. Thomas Sparks | 1 same; | 2 horses | |
| Josiah Sparks | same: | 2 horses | |
| 1797 | Matthew Sparkes | 1 white male over 16; | 4 horses |
| Revd. Thos. Sparks | same; | 2 horses | |
| Josiah Sparks | same; | 1 horse | |
| Ellonor Sparks | 0 same; | 1 horse | |
| 1798 | Revd. Thomas Sparks | 1 white male over 16 | 2 horses |
| Ellinor Sparks | 0 same; | 1 horse | |
| Mathew Sparks | 2 same; | 3 horses | |
| 1799 | Mathew Sparks | 2 white males over 16; | 4 horses |
| Revd. Thomas Sparks | 1 same; | 2 horses | |
| Elliner Sparks | 0 same; | 1 horse | |
| 1800 | Ellinor Sparks | 0 white males over 16; | 1 horse |
| Revd. Thomas Sparks | 1 same | 2 horses | |
| Matthew Sparks | 2 same | 4 horses | |
| 1801 | Matthew Sparks | 1 white male over 16; | 4 horses |
| Rev. Thomas Sparks | 2 same; | 2 horses | |
| 1802 | Mathew Sparks | 1 white male over 16; | 3 horses |
| Brooks Sparks | 1 same | 1 horse | |
| [Note: "Brooks Sparks" and "17.2.1.1 Matthew B. Sparks" are the same person.] | |||
| Revt. Thomas Sparks | 2 same; | 2 horses | |
| 1803 | Revt. Thomas Sparks | 1 white male over 16; | 2 horses |
| Matthew Sparks | 2 same | 4 horses | |
| 1804 | Matthew Sparks | 2 white males over 16; | 4 horses |
| 17.2.1.1 Matthew B. Sparks | 1 same; | 1 horse | |
| Matthew Sparks, Jr. | 1 same; | 1 horse | |
| Revd. Thomas Sparks | 0 same; | 3 horses | |
| 1805 | Revd. Thomas Sparks | 0 white males over 16; | 2 horses |
| Matthew Sparks, Sr. | 2 same; | 2 horses | |
| 17.2.1.1 Matthew B. Sparks | 1 same; | 0 horses | |
| 1806 | 17.2.1.1 Matthew B. Sparks | 1 white male over 16; | 1 horse |
| Revd. Thomas Sparks | 0 same; | 3 horses | |
| Matthew Sparks and son | 2 same; | 2 horses | |
| 1807 | Mathew Sparks | 1 white male over 16; | 1 horse |
| Mathew Sparks, Jr. | 1 same; | 1 horse | |
| Rev. T. Sparks and sons | 2 same; | 1 horse | |
| 1808 | Tax List Missing | ||
| 1809 | Brooks Sparks | 1 white male over 16; | 1 horse |
| Revd. Thomas Sparks | 2 same; | 3 horses | |
| Matthew Sparks | 1 same; | 1 horse | |
| John Sparks | 1 same; | 0 horses | |
| 1810 | Rev. T Sparks and Sons | 3 white males over 16; | 4 horses |
| Mathew B. Sparks | 1 same; | 1 horse | |
| John Sparks | 1 same; | 1 horse | |
| Keziah Sparks and Son | 1 same; | 3 horses | |
| 1811 | Rev. T Sparks and Son | 1 white male over 16; | 4 horses |
| Matthew Sparks | 1 same; | 1 horse | |
| John Sparks | 1 same; | 1 horse | |
| 17.2.1.1 Matthew B. Sparks | 1 same; | 1 horse | |
| 1812 | John Sparks | 1 white male over 16; | 1 horse |
| 17.2.1.1 Matthew B. Sparks | 1 same; | 1 horse | |
| Matthew Sparks | 1 same; | 0 horses | |
| Tilleston Sparkes | 1 same; | 1 horse | |
| 1813 | John Sparks | 1 white male over 16; | 0 horses |
| Thomas Sparks | 1 same; | 2 horses | |
| 17.2.1.1 Matthew B. Sparks | 1 same; | 1 horse | |
| 1814 | Thomas Sparks, Jr. | 1 white male over 16; | 1 horse |
| Rev T Sparks and 2 Sons | 2 same; | 4 horses | |
| 17.2.1.1 Matthew B. Sparks | 1 same; | 1 horse | |
| Edmund Sparks | 1 same; | 0 horses | |
| 1815 | [This tax list includes furniture, etc.; I have copied only "whites over 16". WPJ | ||
| John Sparks | 1 white male over 16 | ||
| Thomas Sparks | 1 same | ||
| Mathew B. Sparks | 1 same | ||
| Edmond Sparks | 2 same | ||
| Mathew Sparks | 1 same | ||
| 1816 | Thomas Sparks (Revd) | 1 white male over 16 | |
| 17.2.1.1 Matthew B. Sparks | 1 same | ||
| Edmund Sparks | 2 same | ||
| John Sparks | 1 same | ||
| 1817 | Mathew B. Sparks | 1 white male over 16 | |
| Edmond Sparks | 1 same | ||
| Revd. Thomas Sparks | 0 same | ||
| Adison Sparks | 1 same | ||
| Thomas Sparks, Jr. | 1 same | ||
| 1818 | Thomas Sparks | 1 white male over 16 | |
| Adderson Sparks | 1 same | ||
| Revd. Thomas Sparks | 0 same | ||
| 17.2.1.1 Matthew B. Sparks | 1 same | ||
| Edmond Sparks | 1 same | ||
| 1819 | Edmd. Sparks | 1 white male over 16 | |
| John Sparks | 1 same | ||
| Mathew B. Sparks | 1 same | ||
| Revd. Thomas Sparks | 0 same | ||
| 46. Addison Sparks | 1 same | ||
| Thos. Sparks | 1 same | ||
| 1820 | Mathew B. Sparks | 1 white male over 16 | |
| Edmond Sparks | 1 same | ||
| Revd. Thomas Sparks | 0 same | ||
Matthew Sparks, Jr., was taxed on a slave in 1788, and Rev. Thomas Sparks was taxed on a slave in 1810, but for the most part the Sparkses of Pittsylvania County, Va., were not slave owners.
Census Records
The 1790, 1800, and 1810 Federal census schedules for Pittsylvania Co., Va., have been lost.
Below are the Sparkses found on the 1820, 1830, 1840 and1850 Federal census schedules for Pittsylvania County.
| 1820 Census | ||
| (p.773) | 17.2.1.1 Matthew B. Sparks | 2 males 10 to 16 years old |
| 1 male 26 to 45 years old | ||
| 2 females under 10 years old | ||
| 1 female 10 to 16 years old | ||
| 1 female 16 to 26 years old | ||
| 1 female 26 to 45 years old | ||
| (p.773) | Edmond Sparks | 4 males under 10 years old |
| 2 males 10 to 16 years old | ||
| 1 male 18 to 26 years old | ||
| 1 male 26 to 45 years old | ||
| 1 female 10 to 16 years old | ||
| 1 female 26 to 45 years old | ||
| 1 female over 45 years old | ||
| Thomas Sparks | 2 males under 10 years old | |
| 1 male 26 to 45 years old | ||
| 1 female 26 to 45 years old | ||
| (p. 781) | Thomas Sparks, Sr. | 1 male 26 to 45 years old |
| 3 females over 45 years old | ||
| 1830 Census | ||
|---|---|---|
| Matthew Sparks | 1 male under 5 years old | |
| 3 males 5 to 10 years old | ||
| 1 male 40 to 50 years old | ||
| 1 female under 5 years old | ||
| 1 female 5 to 10 years old | ||
| 1 female 10 to 15 years old | ||
| 1 female 30 to 40 years old | ||
| (p.123) | Thomas Sparks (SC) | 1 male under 5 years old |
| 2 males 10 to 15 years old | ||
| 1 male 30 to 40 years old | ||
| 2 females under 5 years old | ||
| 1 female 5 to 10 years old | ||
| 1 female 40 to 50 years old | ||
| 1 female 80 to 90 years old | ||
| 1840 Census | ||
| (p.115) | Mathew Sparks | 1 male 5 to 10 years old |
| 2 males 10 to 15 years old | ||
| 2 males 15 to 20 years old | ||
| 1 male 50 to 60 years old | ||
| 1 female 10 to 15 years old | ||
| 2 females 15 to 20 years old | ||
| 1 female 40 to 50 years old | ||
| (p.123) | Thomas Sparks | 1 male 5 to 10 years old |
| 1 male 10 to 15 years old | ||
| 1 male 15 to 20 years old | ||
| 1 male 40 to 50 years old | ||
| 1 female under 5 years old | ||
| 1 female 10 to 15 years old | ||
| 2 females 15 to 20 years old | ||
| 1 female 20 to 30 years old | ||
| 1 female 40 to 50 years old | ||
1850 Census
| Page | Name | Age | Occupation | Birth Place | Net Worth |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| (p.85) 266-266 | Pinckney A. Sparks | 30 | Laborer | Virginia | |
| Mary Sparks | 25 | " | |||
| Armstead Sparks | 2 | ||||
| (p.86) | Sandy Sparks | 25 | Laborer | Virginia | |
| (living with family of Robert W. Williams) | |||||
| (p.87) | Thomas Sparks | 50 | Laborer | Virginia | |
| Nancy Sparks | 51 | " | |||
| Susan W. Sparks | 25 | " | |||
| Sandy I. Sparks | 22 | (male) | " | ||
| Jane Sparks | 19 | " | |||
| Matthew Sparks | 16 | Farmer | " | ||
| Mary Sparks | 13 | " | |||
| (p.106) | Jesse Cook | 80 | Farmer | Maryland | $350 |
| Milton sparks | 25 | Virginia | |||
| Martha Sparks | 35 | " | |||
| Nancy Wilson | 17 | " | |||
| William Sparks | 2 | " |
Wills
There is a record of only one Sparks devisor in Pittsylvania County - Will of Mary A. Sparks, 1872 (Will Book W, page 388) naming Martha V. and Armistead W. Sparks.
Keziah, Jean (Jane), and Eleanor Sparks are named as devisees, as follows:
(Will Book D and W 11, page 256) Will of John Stone, written 1798, probated 1803, names, among others, wife Jean (Jane), daughter Keziah Sparks and granddaughters Jean Sparks and Eleanor Sparks.
(Will Book W 2, page 12) Will of Daniel Price, written 1845, probated 1846, names, among others, Keziah Sparks '93 who now resides in my family,t1 and bequeaths)
(Will Book W 2, page 20) Will of John P. Price, written and probated 1846, names, among others, Keziah Sparks.
Court Records
(Pittsylvania County Court Order Books show the following Sparks intestate records:
(Book 4, page 305, dated April 1780) Theophilus Sparks, dectd., John Justice, administrator.
(Book 14, page 433, dated Dcc. 1810) Adams Sutherland is appointed curator of estate of Hezekiah Sparks, dectd.; 17.2.1.1 Matthew B. Sparks, administrator.
Other Sparks data in the early Court Order Books are as follows:
(Book 3, page 99, dated May 1788) Lawsuit, Ellenor Sparks agst. John Norton. (Suit dismissed).
(Book 4, page 391, dated February 1782) "Thomas Sparks and John Gossett producing a reoommendation from the Elders of the Methodist Church as Ministers of that Society are hereby authorized and empowered to joyn together in holy Matrimony any persons within this County agreeable to an Act of Assembly in that case made and provided. (In Book 5, page 398, dated December 1785, the foregoing authorization is renewed.)
(Book 5, page 401, dated January 1787) Ordered that the overseers of the parish of Cambden in this County do bind out Samuel Sparks [and 7 others] in such manner as the Law directs.
(Book 6, page 52, dated March 1788) Sparks vs. Norton, defendant pay costs.
(Book 6, page 302, dated August 1789) John Jones agst. Samuel Sparks (defendant's note for 2 Pounds and 11 Pence).
(Book 7, page 343, dated May 1794) Whitfield Smith agst. Leonard Sparks.
(Book 9, page 123, dated June 1799) On the Motion of Thomas Sparkes for Leave to build a Water Grist Mill on Beans Creek in this county, It is Ordered that the Clerk issue a Writ of Adquode Dann--(?) commanding the sheriffs to Summon a Jury to meet upon the Lands whereon the said Thomas Sparks purposes building his said Mill and Dam, on the 10th day of next month to execute the Same as the Law directs.
In 1800 in Pittsylvania County, one David Gunn obtained a license to marry Eleanor Sparks, with Mathow Sparks as bondsman. The following items may aid in establishing the parentage of this couple. The Gunns were not landowners in Pittsylvania County, probably because they had occupations that did not require land. Elisha Gunn is evidently the father of David, for he appeared in Pittsylvania County Order Books as early as 1774 and past 1800. David and Elisha Gunn appeared together in 1803. Also in 1803 the following lawsuit was recorded:
George Adams, surviving partner of George Adams and Co., for benefit of David Rice, agst. David Gunn, Matthew Sparks, Jr., and Sarah Sparks. Debt - 5 Pounds, 13 Shillings and 3 Pence, plus interest. A Valentine Gunn appeared on record in 1794.
Deeds
Many Sparks deeds were recorded in Pittsylvania Deed Books. The very earliest deed was given in the first installment of this article (page 82). Abstracts of the others, arranged chronologically, are given below:
(Deed Book 5, page 245) 15 August 1781 - Edward Sparks of Pittsylvania Co., Pa., to Robert Payne - 160 pounds - 559 acres (where Edward Sparks now lives) on waters of Ratledges Creek, including the land sd Sparks purchased of Gilbert bynum and adj. the same. Signed by mark. Wit. Robert Burton, Robt. Harrison, Jno. McLance. Proven 19 February 1732.
(Deed Book 7, page 555) 3 June 1786 - Thomas Robison of Pittsylvania Co., Pa., to Samuel Sparks of same - 5 pounds - 100 acres beginning on Thomas Roberson's line. Signed by Thomas Robison and (wife) Catherine Robison. (No witnesses) Proven January 16, 1786.
(Deed Book 8, page 403) 22 September 1788 - Thomas Sparks of Pittsylvania Co., Pa., to David Shelton - 40 pounds - 80 acres on both sides of Stuards Creek, beginning at a white oak on the creek. Signed by Thos. Sparks and (wife) Elizabeth her X mark Sparks. Witnesses: James Garner, William Vincent, Leonard Sparks. Proven 18 May 1789.
(Deed Book 8, page 401) 30 October 1783 - Samuel Sparks of Pittsylvania Co., Va., to Thomas Norton of same - 30 pounds - 100 acres on Reeds Spring branch, beginning at a Spanish oak. Sigued by Samuel his X mark Sparks, and (wife) Rachel Sparks. Witnesses: Samuel Harvey, Leonard Sparks, Mathew Sparks, John Baggerly. Proven 18 May 1789.
(Deed Book 8, page 379) 1 November 1788 - Thomas Sparks, Sr., to Simon Adams - 150 pounds - 300 acres on north side of Sandy River (where Mathew Sparks now lives), beginning at a white oak on the river. Signed by name. Witnesses: Danl. Tompkins, Thos. Smith, John Baggerly, Leonard Murray. Proven 16 February 1789.
(Deed Book B, page 400) 22 November 1788 - Thomas Sparks, Sr., of Pittsylvania Co., Pa., to John Beggarly of same - 100 pounds - 94 acres on south side of Sandy River, beginning at a red oak on the river. Signed by name. Witnesses: Samuel Harvey, Thomas his X mark Horton, Leonard Sparks. Proven 18 May 1789.
(Deed Book 8, page 405) 22 November 1788 - Thomas Sparks of Pittsylvania Co., Pa., to Leonard Sparks of same - 100 pounds - (acreage not given) - beginning at a forked Chestnut (adj. David Satton). Signed by name. Witnesses: Samuel Harvey, Thomas his X mark Norton, John Baggerly. Proven 18 May 1789.
(Deed Book 10, page 97) 9 April 1794 - John Stone, Sr., of Pittsylvanla Co., Pa., to Mathew Sparks of same - 25 pounds - 100 acres where Bazel Scott formerly lived. Signed by mark. Witnesses: Richard Bennatt, Joshua Homer, Thomas his X mark Sparks. Proven 15 December 1794.
(Deed Book 10, page 436) Bond to Gov. Robert Brooke, Esqr. - Littlebery and John Gwin and Mathew Sparks to build a bridge across Sandy Creek. Proven 19 September 1796.
(Deed Book 14, page 141) January 24, 1804 - Thomas Sparks of Pittsylvania Co., Pa., to Peter Wilson of same - $52 - 52 acres on Beans Creek Mountain (a grant to sd. Thomas Sparks) - adj. McGuff(ord's?), Drury Pulliam, Davis, Price, Trahern. Signed by name. Witnesses: Ro. Harrison, Samuel Trahern, Will Harrison, Mathew Sparks. Proven 17 September 1804.
(Deed Book 16, page 299) 15 April 1809 - Thomas Sparks and Elizabeth Sparks of Pittsylvania Co., Pa., to Henry W. Norton of same - 50 pounds - 101 acres on branches of Beens Creek - adj. Watson's Meeting House, sd. Thomas Sparks, sd. Norton, John Norton, incl. the Mtg. House. Both 17.1 Thomas and Elizabeth Sparks signed by name. Witnesses: Mathew Sparks, Wm. Norton, Jacob his X mark Norton, Asbuary his X mark Norton. Proven 17 April 1809.
(Deed Book 17, page 245) 24 October 1810 - Thomas Sparks of Pittsylvania Co., Pa., to David Beggarly of same - $100 - 58 acres - ad,j. John Gwin, Thomas Sparks's old plat. Signed by name. Witnesses: David his X mark Gunn, Mathew Sparks, Henry Beggerly, Tilliston Sparks. Proven 18 February 1811.
(Deed Book 17, page 483) 12 July 1811 - The children of 17.2.1 Matthew Sparks, dec'd. (who married Kezia Stone, dec'd.), namely:
17.2.1.1 Mathew Brooks Sparks and wife Pansy MNU (Webmaster Note: WN 66 says Nancy);
17.2.1.2 Edmund Sparks and wife Patsey Wright;
17.2.1.3 John Sparks and wife Judy Dodson;
17.2.1.4 Jane Sparks, wife of William Dunken;
17.2.1.5 Nelly Sparks;
17.2.1.6 Nancy Sparks, wife of John Ware; and
17.2.1.7 Thomas Sparks;all of Pittsylvania Co., Pa., to Adam Sutherlin - $350 - their shares in deceased parents' lands.
(Deed Book 18, page 342) 13 November 1813 - Thomas Sparks of 1st part, Robert Payne of 2nd, and John Wilson of 3rd part - Thomas Sparks is indebted to sd. John Wilson 73 Pounds, 5 Shillings and l 1/2 Pence - to be paid on or before 25 December 1814 - per bond dated 20 June 1812 - $1.00 - 162 acres - adj. Wm. Gammons, George Adams - also 1 desk, 1 book case, 1 cart and 1 pair of steers. Signed:Thomas Sparks, Re. Payne, Jno. Wilson. Witnesses: Robert Wilson, Peter Tiffin, Geo. Wilson. Proven 15 November 1813. (Deed of Trust)
(Deed Book 20, page 32) 10 June 1816 - 17.2.1.7 Thos. Sparks of Pittsylvania Co., Pa., to Peyton Lumpkin of same - $70 - 23 acres, being the tract of land owned by my father and mother, 17.2.1 Mathew and Kesiah (Stone) Sparks, it being my part of the sd. land - on Sandy River, adj. John Wilson, John Adams and Peyton Lumpkin. Signed by mark. Witnesses: Nath. Wilson, John Noble, John Ross, John Hanson, Selby Benson, Littleberry Gwin. Proven 17 June 1816.
(Deed Book 20, page 173) January 2, 1816 - Thomas Sparks and Elizabeth MNU his wife, of Pittsylvania Co., Pa., to Clement McDonald of same - 133 Pounds, 4 Shillings - 122 acres on waters of Banes Creek. Signed by name. Witnesses: Absolum Harrison, Richard Harrison, Peter Cahall. Proven 16 September 1816, acknowledged by Thomas Sparks "with certificate and relinquishment of Dower of Elizabeth Sparks."
(Deed Book 21, page 120) February 21, 1817 - George Dodson and wife Betsey, of Pittsylvania Co., Pa., to Thomas Sparks of same - $81 - 27 acres on waters of Sandy River adj. Peter Tiffin, Wilson. George Dodson signed by name, his wife signed by mark. (No witnesses.) Proven 18 August 1817.
(Deed Book 23, page 262) November 5,1819 - Thomas Sparks and wife, Elizabeth MNU, of Pittsylvania Co., Pa., to Clemont McDonolld of same - $229 - 27 acces, adj. Wilson. Thomas Sparks signed by name, his wife signed by mark. (No witnesses.) Proven 20 June 1820.
(Deed Book 23, page 292) December 20, 1819 - George Ward and wife Elizabeth, of Pittsylvania Co., Pa., to Thomas Sparks of same - $100 - 50 acres on south side of the long branch - adj. D. Scarce. Both George Ward and his wife signed by mark. Witnesses: Semuel Norton, Joel Hestill, Anderson Sparks. Proven January 18, 1820.
(Deed Book 23, page 502) December. 20, 1819 - George Ward and wife Elizabeth, of Pittsylvania Co., Va., to Anderson Sparks of same - $100 - 50 acres on south side of Long Branch - adj. Watkins, Gray, David Carces. Both George Ward and his wife signed by mark, Witnesses: Lemuil Norton, Joel H[e]still, Anna her X mark Ward. Proven 18 January 1820.
(Deed Book 25, page 471) August 19, 1823 - 17.2.1.2 Edmund Sparks of Pittsylvania Co., Va., to George Wilson and Robert Wilson, trustee - "Witnesseth that in consideration of the sum of $139.67 by bond of this date which the said Sparks is justly indebted to the said Wilson, and honestly desires to secure payment therof to him, his heirs, etc. and further consideration of one dollar to him paid by Ro. Wilson,... the said Sparks hath bargained and sold to the said Robert Wilson, 1 bay mare, 1 bay horse, 2 bay colts, 7 head of cattle, 15 head of hogs, 4 beds and furniture, kitchen furniture and wagon and gear, and plantation tools, to have and to hold aforesaid property unto the said Robert Wilson, his heirs, etc.. Nevertheless, the said Robert Wilson shall, on 25 December next, or as soon thereafter as the said Sparks or Wilson shall request, sell the said property to the highest bidder for cash. Out of money arising from such sale, shall pay the said George Wilson his debt with interest." Signed: Edmond his X mark Sparks, George Wilson. (No witnesses)
(Deed Book 26, page 87) 10 May 1823 - Robert Walters, sheriff of Pittsylvania Co., Va., to Lemuel Norton of same - Court decree of January Term 1822 - Benj. Watkins agnst. Adderson Sparks - 50 acres of sd. Anderson Sparks's land to be sold to satisfy a debt due Robert Walters - Lemuel Norton paid $106.79. Signed: Robert Walters, Shff. (No witnesses.) Proven January 23, 1824.
(Deed Book 27, page 359) 13 September 1825 - Thos. Sparks of Pittsylvania Co., Va., for love and affection, to Lemuel Norton of same - and $1.00 - 50 acres on the long branch of Sandy River, whereon the sd. Thomas Sparks now lives, also 1 mare, 2 cows and calves, 9 head hogs, 2 beds and furniture, 5 split bottom chairs, and all the rest of sd. Sparks's household and kitchen furniture, and all present crop of every description. Signed by name. Proven 16 September 1825. (Deed of Gift.)
(Deed Book 27, page 411) 11 November 1825 - 17.2.1.2 Edmund Sparks of Pittsylvania Co., Va., to Wm. Holt of same - whereas sd. Sparks is indebted to Rebert Wilson, $59.95 as per bond, 1 of this month - also $20.36 to George Wilson, as per bond due 25 December next and $1.00 - 1 Bay mare, horse, 1 cow, 3 feather beds and furniture, 40 barrels of corn, 4 stacks of Blades, 2 stacks of oats, 38 head of hogs, 1 waggon and geer, 5 poll axes, 3 plow hoes, 3 dutch ovens, 4 pots, 1 loom, 2 spinning wheels, 1 flax wheel, 1 pine cupboard and eathern ware, 1 pine chest, 10 split bottomed eharis, 1 sett cups and saucers, 1 dozen plates, 1case hnives and forks, 1 mattock. Sd. Sparks to remain in possession until 1 November 1826. Signed: Edmond his X mark Sparks, Wm. Holt. Witness: R. Z.(?) Shelton. Proven 11 November 1825.
(Deed Book 35, page 99) 7 May 1833 - Thomas Sparks of 1st part, John Ross ando. of 2nd, and Wm. Linn of 3rd part - all of Pittsylvania Co., Va. - sd. Thomas Sparks is indebted to sd. John Ross - $103.24 - per bond dated 30 October 1831 - and $1.00 - one sorrel horse, 2 cows and calves, 2 beds, bedsteds and furniture, 20 head hogs, 1 walnut table, 6 split bottom chairs, and all other property, household and kitchen furniture. Signed: Thomas his X mark Sparks, Jno, Ross, Wn. Linn. (No witnesses.) Proven 10 May 1833.
(Deed Book 57, page 357) 1857 - Milton Sparks and wife Martha, daughter of Jesse Cook - etc.
(Deed Book 87, page 28) March 11, 1885 - A. J. and Martha V. Young, who was Martha V. Sparks, to Parham Booker - $483 - land on Stuart's Creek, land left by John Booker to Martha V. Young, whose mother was a dau. of sd. John Booker, dec'd. - 106 1/2 acres.
The names Thomas and Matthew were very popular among the Pittsylvania County Sparkses. It seems rather apparent that each Thomas Sparks named sons Thomas and Matthew, and that each Matthew Sparks likewise named sons Thomas and Matthew! Thus, with two and three of each name always on the records, it is almost impossible to distinguish between grandfather and grandson, uncle and nephew, father and son.
The eldest 17.1 Thomas Sparks was born ca. 1711, married around 1740 to Elizabeth MNU, who was born ca. 1718, and had perhaps a dozen children, as follows:
17.1.1 FNU Sparks born ca. 1742
17.1.2 Matthew Sparks born ca.1744; married, ca 1765 to Margery MNU
17.1.3 FNU Sparks born ca. 1746
17.1.4 Samuel Sparks, born July 29, 1749
17.1.5 FNU Sparks, born ca. 1750
17.1.6 FNU Sparks, born ca. 1752
17.1.7 FNU Sparks, born 1754
17.1.8 FNU Sparks, born 1756
17.1.9 Son1 Sparks, born 1758
17.1.10 Dau1 Sparks, born 1760
17.1.11 Son2 Sparks, born 1762
17.1.12 Dau2 Sparks, born 1762 (twins?)
The eldest 17.2 Matthew Sparks, no doubt a brother to the above 17.1 Thomas Sparks, was born ca. 1715, married around 1748 to Elinor MNU, who was born ca. 1731, and had perhaps ten or twelve children as follows:
17.2.1 Matthew Sparks born ca. 1749. Married Kezia Stone
************************************************
17.2.2 John Sparks born ca. 1751
17.2.3 Sarah Sparks born May 23, 1753
17.2.4 Samuel Sparks, born ca. 1755
17.2.5 FNU Sparks, born ca. 1757
17.2.6 William Sparks born ca. 1759
17.2.7 Josiah Sparks born August 26, 1761
17.2.8 Truelove born July 21, 1764
17.2.9 Son1 Sparks born ca. 1769
17.2.10 Jane Sparks, born ca. 177317.2.2 John Sparks,
17.2.7 Josiah Sparks,
Leonard Sparks,
17.2.1 Matthew Sparks, Jr.,
17.2.4 Samuel Sparks, and
Thomas Sparks, Jr.,
who appear on record in Pittsylvania County in the 1780's and 1790's are sons and grandsons of 17.2 Matthew Sparks (Sr.) and 17.1 Thomas Sparks (Sr.). by the early 1800's most of the family had removed elsewhere. Some moved down into Rockingham Co., N.C.; some went to South Carolina and Georgia; and a few settled in Tennessee. It is hoped that further research will enable us to untangle some of these threads of relationship. Members having data on branches of this family are urged to write to either the author of this sketch (William P. Johnson, Box 531, Raleigh, N.C.), or to the editor.
NOTE: An item in the first paragraph on page 82 of the September, 1955, issue of The Sparks Quarterly, Whole No. 11 stated that 17.2 Matthew and Elinor Sparks purchased 68 acres, called Bedfordshire Carrier, in 1748 in Prince George's Co., Md., and that they undoubtedly sold the 68 acres prior to removing to Pittsylvania Co., Va., in 1777/8, but that the grantee failed to have the deed recorded. Further research has his disclosed the fact that Matthew and Elinor sold the 63 acres in 1760, while residing in Frederick County, Md.
| Frederick Co., Md., Deed Book F, page 1180 - 4 November 1760 - Matthew Sparks of Frederick Co, Md., planter, to Evan Jones of same, planter - 2500 lbs. of merchantable tobacco - 68 acres - all that part of a tract of land called Bedfordshire Carrier, beginning at a bounded black oak. Signed: Mathew his X mark Sparks. Witnesses: Chas. Jones, David Lynn. Eleanor Sparks, wife of Mathew, relinquished her dower right. Proven 4 November 1760. |
Frederick County, Md., was formed in 1748 from Prince George' s County, but since Matthew Sparks was listed on the 1750 Rent Roll of Prince George's County with Bedfordshire Carrier - 68 acres - it is rather unusual for the deed to have been recorded in Frederiok rather than in Prince George's County. Probably Matthew and Elinor resided in Federick County most of the 1750's, but removed back to Prince George's County in 1760, having purchased 109 acres in Prince George's Co. in August of that year. Incidentally, Matthew was the one and only Sparks given on the 1750 Rent Roll of Prince George's County, Maryland.