John G. Herndon differs somewhat from Worth Ray, but agrees that the life of Rev. John Thomson followed approximately the following course. He entered University of Glasgow, 1 March 1706, received his MA. Ordained in Presbyterian ministry and licensed at Ulster Synod meeting in Antrim 23 June 1713. Arrived in York (probably New York), c1713/14; was in Lewes, DE from about 1715/17 to 1729/30, but also spent some time in Middle Octorara and Chestnut Level, PA. Served "back parts" of VA, 1733-1744 including Opekon, Rockfish Gap (Nelson Co.), Cub Creek (Lunenburg later Charlotte Co.), Buffalo and Walker's (Amelia later Prince Edward Co.), Hot Creek and Concord Campbell Co.), Winchester and Staunton (1739). Lived on Spring Creek in Amelia Co. (later Prince Edward), VA, 1744-50, where he bought 326 acres from Samuel Cobb; wife died here. This period overlaps with Samuel Wallace, father of Rev. Caleb Wallace and Mary Wallace who is said to have married William Finley, son of James the immigrant. In 1751 he was at Centre Church, Mecklenburg Co., NC. Died at home of daughter Elizabeth and her husband Robert Baker. First wife, an Osbourne, was mother of all but one of his children.
Date and place of death provided by Jess Coleman, 120 Bosworth, Slidell, LA 70461, (504)641-4565.
According to Herndon, probably moved to the Charlotte, NC neighborhood about the time the Finleys located there. Mecklenburg Co. deed shows John Shields, planter,and Margaret, his wife, had land transaction 10 October 1771; mentions "line to John Finley's".