DOCKET           

Edwd. J Eldred
1808-1845

 

Compiled by David Bailey
January 2007
Note: In the summer of 2006, Bob Sweeney and David Bailey collaborated to acquire a copy of a microfilm of Edward Eldred's Docket held by the Pennsylvania State Archives in Harrisburg, PA. This document was compiled between 1808 and 1845 by Edward Eldred as a record of his legal transactions in what was to become Sullivan County and nearby areas. Having purchased the microfilm, Bob arranged for David to be able to make his own copy, from which David compiled the following transcription. Bob then donated the purchased microfilm to the Sullivan County Historical Society and Museum where it it is held in the collection there in Laporte, PA.

 

EDWARD JARVIS ELDRED

 

I

 

            It has been over two-hundred years since Edward Jarvis Eldred first walked the hills and dales of The Elklands. Though he was not the first resident of what would fifty- some years later become Sullivan County, he quite possibly was the first to arrive possessing the rare combination of entrepreneurial canny, legal know-how, humanitarianism and a true pioneer spirit to afford him the reputation of the “first citizen” of The Elklands.

            Edward Jarvis Eldred was born August 19^th, 1763 at Overshot Mill, Norwood, Middlesex County, England, northwest of London. His mother’s maiden name was Jarvis, the family said to have been “near blood” relatives of William Penn.

            Along with his several brothers and sisters, Edward was given a liberal but not classical education. At the age of about seventeen his father procured for him a clerkship in a well-known carriage manufactory in London. After remaining in this position for a few years a better place was found in a mercantile establishment.

            At about the age of twenty-five he took lodging at the “Inner Temple,” one of the four Inns of Court around the Royal Courts of Justice in London (the other three being Middle Temple, Lincoln’s Inn and Gray’s Inn). It was a well-know institution, so-named for its origins with the Knights Templar.  And there at the Inner Temple, for several years, Edward pursued the study of Law with an eye to being called to the Bar as a practicing barrister. Sources differ as to whether he was actually admitted to the Bar, but we do know that his education served him well.

            Upon leaving his studies in Law, Edward pursued the occupation of a wholesale tea merchant. His success in this trade was less than satisfying however, and after several years of effort and persistence he disposed of his stock and closed the store, evidently much discouraged. The next undertaking was that of balloon navigation, which at the time was the “rage” in France and England. This plan too, however, was very soon abandoned.

            About this time the tide of emigration to the United States was high, due in no small way to the efforts of the land developers. The speculators themselves were cashing in on the relative safety from both foreign invasion and Indian wars. Edward Eldred had caught the infection and was eager to pursue a life in the New World. He therefore lost no time in obtaining letters of introduction to Mr. Phineas Bond, the British consul at New York, as well as John Vaughan, an extensive land owner of the same city, and Dr. Joseph Priestley, of Northumberland, Pennsylvania on the Susquehanna River.

            Eldred’s wife was a member of a wealthy and influential family by the name of Paine which was decidedly opposed to this latest project, but Eldred was not to be dissuaded. It was decide that his wife and three children would remain with friends until accommodations could be arranged in America. Unfortunately, his wife and two sons soon fell sick and died. A remaining daughter was raised by relatives in London and much later joined her father in his new home.  

            Edward engaged passage on the ship Mary, of 18 guns, 9 pounders, 130 men, bound for New York and embarked the 18^th of May, 1798. A voyage across the Atlantic at that time was not the pleasantest thing in the world, nor entirely free from danger. After being out from Liverpool one or two days a French vessel bore down upon them and Eldred was assigned to the command of a gun and men to operate. When nearly within hailing distance the French vessel ran up the United States colors and the vessels passed each other as friends. After a voyage of two and a half months the Mary arrived safely at the New York harbor. The following is taken from the bill of lading: “The good ship Mary whereof is Master under God for this present voyager, Eben Allen.”

            Eldred Atkinson tells us that Edward first engaged lodgings at “Bayara’s Farm, near the Bowery Lane” in New York, meeting there with Bond and Vaughan.

            At about this time Edward must also have paid a visit to Joseph Priestley in Northumberland, Pennsylvania at the forks of the Susquehanna. He would have learned from Priestley of his vast land holdings in northeastern Pennsylvania, as had Mssrs. Molyneux, Bird , Warren and others before him.  He would also have learned that the Wallis Pack Road was soon to become the route of the Great Genesee Road which was to carry new settlers from Pennsylvania, Delaware and Maryland to the fertile Genesee Valley to the North and thence West. And for a man the likes of Edward Jarvis Eldred, this was the opportunity of a lifetime…to be in the right place at the right time.

            So, for the two years prior to Eldred’s emigration to The Elklands he was engaged in learning the craft of land surveying, first at Newark, N.J., and the following year at Kingston, Pennsylvania opposite Wilkes-Barre. During this time he became proficient enough to enable him to move forward as a land surveyor.

             Edward arrived at The Elklands at the age of thirty-seven, bringing with him a large variety of experiences, enabling him to become an exceedingly valuable addition to a new settlement in its formative state.

            Having arranged the use of a log house belonging Thomas King, Sr., he transferred there in the spring of 1800 such articles of personal property as were then in his possession.  In a very short time we find Eldred deeply involved in the workings of the new community. For instance, finding at the time the neighborhood destitute of flour, the following letter addressed to Stephen Bill, a millwright, reads:

 

            Sir, I will beg of you on the part of Mr. Ecroid to come or send some efficient hand to set the mill at rights. Mr. Ecroid is down at Philadelphia and we have a number of new settlers that are very much distressed for flour; the mill will not perform at all. I undertook to grind for the settlers in Mr. Ecroid’s absence. It therefore rather devolves upon me to request a ready attention to our necessities, as most of the settlers have not the means to go out for provisions and are therefore much distressed for bread, I therefore beg that you will not fail to come or send immediately.

 

Ingham quotes a document of about the same period, illustrating that when the needy required help he was among those rendering or organizing aid :

 

To the Men of Elklands:

            Since one of our number, Edward Jones, has the misfortune to be afflicted with lameness, and consequently unable to do that for himself which the situation of a settler in this country requires; under these circumstances it is but a fellow-feeling to give our assistance, for we are all liable to the like affliction. It is therefore suggested that we should, as many of us as are so disposed, meet together at Edward Jones’ house, on the first Monday of April (taking our own provisions along), there to cut over for him a piece of woods; and should his lameness continue, then to meet again at his house, on the first Monday in May, to log off and clear the said piece for planting.

(signed) Edward J. Eldred, David Barrington, William Molyneux, Peter Dominique, Jonathan Frisbey

 

            The location chosen by Eldred for his home was at the northern line of the township, at or near the spot now known as Hugo’s Corners on North Street. In choosing this location he doubtless considered the fact that it was central to the Priestly holdings in both Lycoming and Bradford counties. Indeed, many stories have been told of his journeys from there to Northumberland with his team of oxen, the lead being “belled.” 

            But the location was made more important by the fact that is was on the route of the Wallis Road, soon to become the Genesee Road, near the spot when it begins its descent down Burnette’s Ridge to Schrader’s Branch of the Towanda Creek The road went from there to Meansville (later Towanda) before heading north.  Already heavily traveled, some have said as many as 28 Conestoga wagons passed through each day, the road promised to be a gold mine. Upon erecting his own log house, as early as 1803,  Eldred was immediately overrun with applications for lodgings and meals as well as accommodations for beasts.

            At this juncture, Eldred contrived to build a “Grand Hotel” of sorts which he named “Liberty Hall.”  Now and Then tells us:

 

            The plan was that of constructing four houses of hewed timber cornering together, and so forming the fifth, the ground figure being that of a “Fox and Geese” board. The dimensions of each of these buildings was about 18 by 24 feet, two stories high, the middle one being 18 by 18 feet three stories high with a lookout on top. It was finished in 1805.

 

            Eldred Atkinson relates that “Fox and Geese” was an old children’s game played somewhat like Chinese Checkers, but with 1 fox and 13 geese. The board seems to have been a square or rectangle laid out with another adjoining square or rectangle on the side.

            Egle observes that:

 

            Travelers passing through the country found him an agreeable landlord, and notwithstanding the hours required in hard labor in providing a home for the public, he is believed to have been fond of the sports and games engaged in by his countrymen. In sending invitations to friends to assist in raising a part of his house…he writes: “Come early, so that we can have some time for play after we have finished our work.”

 

            But Eldred was first and foremost a leader in his community. Whenever an emergency of any kind occurred in the Elkland settlement he was immediately summoned and expected to either act as leader or name the man for the position.

            The first death in the Elkland settlement was during the winter of 1802, that of Felix Powell, and a copy of an oration delivered by Mr. Eldred at the burial has been found, as follows:

 

            Men of the Elklands, we have been called together on a solemn occasion, the first of the kind that has happened in these lands. Men as we, are from different countries and of various religions, but united, it is presumed, in the same general moral and social sentiments; we trust and hope in the guardian and wise disposal of the great God of Nature and our being; while we exist the same hand is over us, in death the same God exists, where our spirits are fled we know not whither, and our bodies moldering in the dust. On Him the great and living God let us with steadfast and unshaken confidence depend. While we regard with unremitting attention the monitions he has placed within our bosoms, that monitor would teach us, after our acknowledgement to the great God of all, next under our present circumstances, to pay decent and becoming honor to the deceased. We remember him as a man; we cannot forget him as a man, active and laborious, considering his years (three score and ten), we must remember him as a useful member of society. We commit his body to our mother earth tenderly as brethren whilst we hope through the different modes that our various religions inspire for the future disposal of our deceased brother. Men of the Elklands, we have paid the last honor to a deceased friend, let us considered that each of us shall require the same kind offices of some of our fellow men. This should teach us the necessity of moral and social duties and while we observe a decent and becoming regard for the dead, let us bear away with us from the grave the reflection that higher and still more important are due from each of us to the other and from us to all mankind that live.

 

            In short, as Ingham puts it,  Eldred soon became the leading man in the section, surveying and selling land, writing deeds, wills and contracts and viewing and laying out new roads. He was made Justice of the Peace for the Third District of Lycoming County and began compiling what is now know as “Eldred’s Docket,” being his copy of the legal transactions which took place under his care from September, 1808 until December, 1846, with two breaks. These writings are remarkable for their completeness and attention to detail. They are especially valuable to us for touching upon  the lives of a large variety of individuals, some in passing, but often in intimate detail. In each and every case they serve to tell us much about life in a fledgling frontier community of two hundred years ago.

            This narrative will continue following the year 1812.

 

                                            1808

                                                           

                                                              4 Septr 1808

 

Jos. Priestley Esqr  V.S. Wm. Snell                  

 

Deed of Mortgage        acknowledged

 

.26

 

                                                           16 Novr 1808

 

Hezekiah Morris of Warrior Run, Torbut J. North E. v.s. Jno. B. Hogin

 

Constable H Morris, Issued 16 Novr, Ret 17^th             

 

Capias demand not exceeding 100 Dollars
[Editor's Note: “that you take,“ a Capias demand, requires an officer of the court to take into custody a person or certain monies. ]                              

 

Plaintiff Satisfied, so says Constable

 

Justice caps .10

Paid

 

***

 

H. Morris as above v.s. Daniel Bringham                                                          

 

Constable H. Morris, Issued 16 Novr, Retd. 17th

 

Capias demand not exceeding 100 Dollars

 

17^th Defendant Confesses

Judgment for     6.44

 

17^th Transcript of Judgment given

14^th Oct 1809 - H. Morris sworn that the above ment. Transcript is lost or mislaid

26 Oct 1809 2^nd Transcript given

 

Costs: Justice Capias .10 (ask ggs); Transcrt. .20; Oath & Writ .16; 2^nd Transcrt. .20; Constable Vens Caps .13                                                                                  

***

 

H. Morris as above v.s. Geo. Wilson

 

Constable H. Morris, Issued 16 Novr, Retd. 17^th

 

Capias demand not exceeding 100 Dollars

 

Plaintiff satisfied, so says Constable -

 

Costs: Justice Capias .10

Paid

 

***

 

Corns. Waldron v.s. John B. Hogin

 

Constable H. Morris, Issued 16 Nov, Retd. 17^th

 

Capias demands not exceeding 100 Dollars

 

Plaintiff satisfied, so says Constable

 

Capias .10

Paid

 

                                                          30 Novr 1808

 

James Muck v.s. John Hill

 

Constable Wm Russell, Issued 30 Novr

To appear, of Deed, Kar. 2 Brfs. Drfts., 49 to settle

2 Witnesses: Jonn. Hartley, Jas Muck Jr.

Ref 2 Deed, Drft att__  g, to Settle

 

Summons demand not exceeding 100 Dollars

2 Decd. Defendants

Confesses Judgment for -                      28.34

Stay of Exn. For 6 Months

 

 

 

 

12 June 1809 Execution/Issued

1808 29 Decr Interest -                            .12

1809 15 July, Intt. -                                  .81

                                                            29.27

                                                           

Jonn. Hoagland  Constable

Exn Issued 12 June 1809

19 Oct. Constable

Augst. etc.

 

18 Jun 1809 - Muks Assignment to Samples [Editor's Note: refers to Robert Samples]

26 Jany 1809 - Received by Sample of Jno. Hill the 18 June - prin: 10.90

Inst. For 29 ______ .24 

See Muks ass to Samples Rest.

                                                            [29.27]

15 July 1809 Defendant paid                -11.25

                                                             18.20             

           

Demand Intt. Costs       18.20

Constables                       .92                          

Justice Costs                    .20

                                    19.14

 

 

                                                             13 Decr 1808

 

I Ezra Haines of the Township of Elkland in the County of Lycoming duly elected assessor of said Township do solemnly, sincerely and truly declare and affirm that I will diligently, faithfully and impartially perform the several duties enjoined on me by an act of the General assembly passed the Eleventh day of April A.D. 1799 entitled “An act to raise and collect County Rates and Levies” to the best of my ability and judgment without favor or affection, hatred, malice, or ill will.

 

Taken & Subscribed Decr 13, 1808 before me Edw. J. Eldred

 

Copy for Docket on waiste sheet

 

Ezra Haines

 

Oath     .4

Writg.  .20

 

 

 

                                                        18 December 1808

 

Lycoming Coy., S8, The Commonwealth against Amaniah Parker

 

Backed Warrant of Eliphat Mason, Constable Andrew Grigg

Dated 16 Decbr to approach the Defendant.

Charged on Oath by  Freeman Garnon with adultery with his wife Dorcas Garnon

Returnable before E. Mason whence warrant issued

 

Cost Justice B.W. - .15

 

                                                        29 December 1808

 

Jos. Priestley v.s. James Muck

 

Amicable [Editor's Note: that is, both parties agree to disposition] Single Bill dated June 6 1807

            18 mo: rate for                          25.46

            June 6 1807 paid on note-                      4.80

                                                                        21.38

            1808  29 Decr Interest                           2.

            29 Decr 1808  Defendant

              Confesses Judgement for                    23.38

            26 Jany 1809 - Int. to this day                  .10

              Defendant delivers a Sugar Kettle

              to F. Boyles on plaintiff acct as

              agreed together value                6.

                                                                        17.48

            15 July, 1809  Interest on 14.38 for

              26 Jany                                                  .54

                                                                        18.2

 

15 July 1809  Defendant paid debt and Intst. By assignment of Jno. Hill

Judgement paid this day   E.J.E.

 

Costs

Justice .10

Pd. Cash to Justice

 

                                                                                        1809

 

                                                             3 January 1809         

 

Wm Means v.s. Chas. Mullan

 

Amicable Single Bill dated 2^nd Mar 1808 to be paid 4 July for   10.

                                                                                  3 Jany, Int.             .30

                                 3 Jany Defendant confesses judgment for 10.30

                                                                       22 April 1809 Int.              .18

                                                             Received 22 April 1809           10.48

 

Ten Dollars and forty eight cents

Wm Means

Copy for docket on waiste sheet

 

Costs

Justice entg Judgement  .10

Paid off

 

                                                            4 January 1809

 

Lycoming Co: S.8.  The Commonwealth against Jonas Youns

 

Upon Oath of Rob. Sample that Jonas Youns hath threatened to lay in wait and beat him and on appearance of said Jonas Youns who still persists in his threat in my presence and refuses to find Surities for his appearance at the Quarter Sessions and his good behavior in the mean time he stands committed to Gaol until he finds Security or is otherwise legally discharged. Edw.E.

 

Commitment Issued 4^th to Wm. Russell Constable of Elkland Township

Commitment null. 4^th on finding Security as follows -

 

            Robt. Sample of Elkland Township yeoman tent.                       100.

            Richd. White of Elkland Township to give in Demd. tent.             50.

 

Costs: Infn .13; Recog .20; ditto .20; Comd .15 = .68

 

***

 

 

The Commonwealth agt. Jonas Youns

 

Breach of the peace on oath of Robt. Sample

Jonas Youns of Elkland T. yeo: tent.      100.

Rob. Sample of Elkland T. yeo:             tent.      100.

Wm. Russell of Elkland T. yeo: tent.      100.

 

For the appearance of the Defendant  to answer

Cognitum 4 Janry, 1809 - Edw. J. Eldred

 

Lycoming County 8.S.

 

            Be it remembered that on the 4^th day of Jany 1809 - the aforesaid Rob. Sample hath come before me the said Edward J. Eldred esq. and freely remised [Editor's Note: surrendered] & released as much as in him with the aforesaid surety of the peace and of the good behavior by him prayed before me against the above named  Jonas Youns. In witness whereof, I the said Edw. J. Eldred have hereunto set my hand at Elkland Township in the County aforesaid the fourth day of Jany in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred & nine.  Edw J Eldred

 

[Editor's Note: From this point onward we shall omit Eldred’s redundant “figuring” of costs (originally in the left margin) unless some newly introduced item appears. Much of his work here is very tiny and added hastily. The actual numbers appear in the text.]  

 

                                                            23 Jany 1809

 

Jonas Youns v.s. C.W. [Editor's Note: Commonwealth]

 

On producing before me the head of a Panther and on his oath that he killed it in Shrewsbury Township on the 17^th Jany  delivered him as ordered on Thos. Hays Treasr. of Lycoming County - for 8.

 

Justice .13 charged in acct.

 

                                                           25 January 1809

 

Charles Mullan Fund. v.s. Chas. Mullan secd.

 

Deed acknowledge

 

Justice costs .26 charge in acct

 

***

 

 

Wm. Means v.s. Amos Hogeland

 

Amicable Single due Bills dated 17 Feby 1807  8.8

                                                          25 Jany Int -         .95

25 Jany 1809 Defendant Confesses Judgment for          9.2

                                                                        Int.         .49

                                                                                    9.51

                               15 Dec 1809 - Paid 5 Dollars

                               29 Jan  1809 - Paid 1.00               6.

                                                                                    3.51

                                                Int. 11 Augt. 1810 -       .13

                                                                                    3.64

11 Augt. 1810 Denfendant paid in full -

 

Costs Justice .10 charge in acct.

 

[Editor's Note: The signature “John Schrank” appears here]

 

 

                                                            28 January 1809

 

R. Hale v.s. Rob. Temple

 

Amicable due Bill 20 April 1808 - 10 days                    7.60

                                    Int. to 20 Jany 1809                   .83

20 Jany 1809 Defendant Confesses Judgment for -       7.93    

                                    8 Septr. Int.                                .28

Recd. Decr. 13^th 1809 - for R. Hale - 8.21/100            8.21

 

***

 

Jacob Bowman v.s. Robt. Sample

 

Amicable Single Bill 13 May 1808 - 3 mo.                                26.29

                                                Paid 14 May                              4.

                                                                                                22.29

                          Int. for 13 Augt. On 22.29 -                               .61

                          Single Bill 20 April 1808 - 8 days                     4.

                          Int. from 28 April 1808 on 4.                  .18

                          12 June 1809 Execution Issued

                          Delivered to Jono. Hogeland Consl.             _____

                          Defendant Confesses Judgment for -   27.07

                          28 June 1809 Int.                                               .66

                                                                                                27.74

                          Memo: - Aldins note C Costs left for investigation

 

 

                          June 26 - 1809 Jacob Bowmans Rect. For -   22.72

                                                                                                  5.02

                          April 27 1810 Interest                                        .25

                                                                                                  5.27

                          Ap: 27 1810  Bowmans Rect for -                    5.10

                          29 June 1811 Defendant paid principal -          .17

                          Seventeen Cents of Justice Costs 30 Cents

 

                       

                                                             16 Feby 1809

 

Norman Schneider v.s. James Muk

 

Amiable Suit - Demand for a Book amount on hearing

Kurmans amt. Not denied

Transfer from Jno. Schneider & Norman in full of his sum on Muck

not denied -

Judgment for plaintiff  3.10 ½

 

Recd 26 Feby 1809 by a transfer to Edw Eldred

 

Copy to Docket on Waiste sheet

Norman Schneider

 

Costs: Justice .20

 

***

 

See - the foregoing part of this Docket on a loose sheet of paper - filed - original entry

 

***

 

                                                            2 March 1809

 

Rich. White Marrd. Ann Ball, both of Elkland Township

 

By Edw. J. Eldred   Rich White - Ann White

 

Witnesses   Michael Hartley, Mary Eldred

By desire    Sally Mc Meand X, Sarah McMeand X

Present       Edw. A. Eldred, Mary Eldred, Sarah Eldred

 

                                                                 9 March

 

Franc. Boyles v.s. Ja. Henderson

 

Constable Wm. Russell Issued 9 March To appear 15 March 10 o.C. a.m.

 

Summons demand not exceeding 100 Dollars (should have been 500.)

Damage for Breach of Contract 10.

 

Plaintiff withdraws his action paying the costs

 

Constable serv. summs. .13,  v. coll. 18 = .31  Plaintiff paid costs and Constable

 

                                                               13 March

 

Robt. Sample & wife to Jas. Henderson

 

Deed acknowledged

 

.26 charged in amt.

 

***

 

Jas. Henderson & wife to Jno. Warren

 

Deed acknowledged

 

.26 charged in amt.

 

                                                            27 March 1809

 

Marshall Battin, Muncy Township Marr. Mary Hogeland, Elkland Township

 

By Edwd. J. Eldred     Marshall Battin - Mary Batton (sic)

 

Witnesses - Joseph Hogeland, The mark of Hannah Hogeland, Amos Hogeland, The mark of Hannah Hogeland the younger, John Hogeland, Susannah Hogeland, Jonathan Hogeland, Samuel Hogeland, Rachel Patterson, The mark of Rebecca Rice

By Desire - Josh. Hogeland, Elijah Hogeland, sons of Amos, Susannah Hogeland, daughter of “Jn.”

 

                       

                                                           

 

                                                              7 April 1809

 

Jno. Sample

 

Wolf head - killed about the 1 Jany cash order on Thos. Hays for Treasr..         8.

 

.13 charged in amt.

 

                                                              12 April 1809

 

Jno Watson v.s. Chas. Mullen Junr

 

Note dated 11 May 1800 to Jno. Watson on order                   5.20

                                                        Int. to this day                   2.78

Defendant appears & confesses a judgement for                        7.96

                                                                 ___ Int.                     .55    

9 June 1810 Defendant paid eight Dollars and fifty three           

Cents Debt incl costs 35 cents                                      8.53 [?]

Rec. Decr 31 1812 for James Smith    Wm. Grant

 

                                                            22 April 1809

 

Reuben Haines

 

Wolfhead killed about 19^th Mch. Order on Thos. Hays Esq. Treasr.                  8.

 

.13 Paid

 

***

                                                           

[Editor's Note: The following is found in this spot, perhaps due to available writing space.]

 

28 May 1806 - altered the address from the Treasurer to the Commissioners - in the following words striking the pen thro the word Treasurer. “ The alteration of address - from the Treasurer to the Commissioners was made by me the 28^th of May 1809 in the representation of the Treasurer - the former address was made against Grayson on the Law of 1802 and the Law of 1806 not being present with me.  Edw. J. Eldred

 

 

 

 

                                                              2 May 1809

 

Jno. Camel v.s. F. Boyles

 

Single Bill dated February 15 1808                   1.55

Single Bill dated February 15 1808                   1.51

                                          Back int.                   .17

                                                                       2121 [sic]                                                                                                                                                          6.94

                                                              Int. To this day             .41                                         Defendant appears and confesses judgment for  7.35                            

 

New judgment conferred 25 Sept. 1812 E.J.E

 

C.Judgt. .10

 

                                                            15 May 1809

 

James Henderson v.s. Frans. Boyles

 

Constable Jonn. Hogeland Issued May 15^th

 

Capias demand not exceeding 100 Dollars

 

Unsettled accounts    Notes &c -

 

            Single Bill on demand 1 May 1806                                50.

                        Henderson agrees to forego the Int.

            Single Bill 1 May 1806, due 1 May 1809                      50.

                        Henderson agrees to forego the Int.

            Single Bill 22 Jany 1809 on demand                              15.

                        Henderson agrees to forego the Int.

            Paid Preston -                                                                 3.40

            Cash lent at Eldreds                                                         3.     

                                                                                               121.40

 

Deduct misc. items sold to Henderson Cash on acct

&c &c agreed by them                                                 50.39 1/2

In lieu of 1 Cwt Hay & bring ___ Forks                                        .75

                                                                                                51.14 1/2

 

On hearing Judgment for Plaintiff 15 May 1809 -                                               70.25 ½

 

            15 May Execution entered

            16 May Execution ____

Plaintiff satisfied - Constable for Costs says Constable Notes & Papers retd. to Henderson the plaintiff

 

***

 

James Roal v.s. Francis Boyles

 

Amicable Demand for a Book Debt -

 

Defendant appears & Confesses Judgment for   20.59

 

Conf. Judg.  .10

 

16 May

 

James Henderson became Special Bail in the Sum of 41 Dollars upon  Condition that the Defendant pays the demand with Int. and Costs in 5 months from the 15 May -

Defendant to. Demand & Int. to James Roal 1 Dec 1809

 

 

                                                            11 June 1809

 

Jacob Bowman v.s. James Henderson

 

Amicable Single Bill 24 May 1808  due 27 Augt -                                 16.

                                               Int. to 12 June 1809                                  .96

                                       Single Bill 21 June 1808                                   2.94  

                                                Int. to12 June 1809                                  .16

                                          Single Bill 1 July 1810                                   3.88

                                                Int. to 12 June1809                                  .21

                                                                        __m                                    7

12 June 1809 Defendant appears & confessed Judgment for                 24.22

                                                                   ___ Int.                                 .33

                                                                                                            24.55

                                                4 Sept. pd Bowman                                7.75

                                                                                                            16.80

                                                                          Int.                                 .20

                                                                                                            17.00

             23 Decr 1809 Defendant pd Debt seventeen Dollars

                        P. Jacob Bowman 16% of 1810 -

                        See his receipt                                                             

                                                                                                                                   

                                                                       

 

                                                            11 August 1809

 

Joseph Priestley v.s. Peter Dominique

 

Amicable Single Bill 11 June 1807

                2 ____ due 11 June 1809                                         11.69

                Int. 11 Augt. 1809                                                      1.51

                Henderson for plough                                                 5.

                                                                                                18.20

1809 20 21 & 22 ap: 3 days work @ 10 mo.                             1.14

11 Aug 1809 Defendant appears & confesses judgment for       17.60

                                                                                                    .48

4 Jany 1810 - allowed in first payment of 25 D. by D. for          17.54

His place sold Priestley

 

                                                         18 September 1809

 

Complaint

 

Lycoming County S.S.

 

C.W. [Editor's Note: Commonwealth] v.s. James Henderson

 

            Before me the subscriber one of the Justices of the Peace in and for the County of Lycoming personally came John Warren of the township of Shrewsbury in the said county. Yeoman. Who upon his solemn affirmation according to law, saith, that on Sunday last being the 17^th day of September instant at the township aforesaid - James Henderson of the township of Elk-lands yeoman made an assault upon this affirmant and then and there did threaten to beat him & shaking his Fist in the affirmants Face and violently pulling him out of the House. -

Further saith not -

 

Affirmed and subscribed September 18 1809  Before me  Edw. J. Eldred

The mark of Jno. X Warren

 

Warrant

 

Lycoming County S.S.

 

The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania to the constable of Shrewsbury township in the County of Lycoming - greeting

[Seal] Wheras complaint hath been made unto Edwd. J. Eldred esqr. one of the Justices of the Peace with for the county of Lycoming upon the solemn affirmation of John Warren of the township aforesaid yeoman that on Sunday last being the Seventeenth day of September instant at the township aforesaid James Henderson of the township of Shrewsbury yeoman made an assault upon him the said John Warren and then & there did threaten to beat him & shaking his Fist in the affirmant’s face did violently Pull him out of the house - These are therefore to command you to take the said James Henderson and bring him  before the said Edw. J. Eldred or some other Justice of the Peace of the said county forthwith to answer the said complaint and further to be dealt with according  to law - witness the said Edw. J. Eldred at Elkland Township aforesaid the eighteenth day of September in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and nine -  Edw. J. Eldred

 

Warrant notd. By William Molyneux

 

The within named James Henderson not found in his Balywick -

 

                       

                                                       26 September 1809

 

Jonn. Hogeland, Elkland Township Marrd. Rachel Patterson, Elkland Township

 

By Edw. J. Eldred    Jonathan Hogeland - Rachel Hogeland

 

Witnesses - Charles Mullen, Elizabeth Mullen, Amos Hogeland, John Patterson, William            Patterson, John Sample, Hannah Patterson, Samuel Hogeland

By desire present - Abidiah, Aaron, Uriah, Jesse [&] Mary Patterson

 

                                                      29 September 1809

 

I William Russell of the Township of Elkland duly elected Assessor of the said Township do solemnly sincerely and truly declare and swear that I will diligently faithfully and impartially perform the several duties enjoined on me by an act of the General Assembly passed the eleventh day of April AD 1799 intitled “An Act to raise and collect County rates and Levies” to the best of my ability and Judgment without favor or affection, hatred, malice or ill will    William Russell

 

Taken and subscribed before me 29 Septr 1809   Edw. J. Eldred

 

 

 

                                                         8 Novr. 1809

 

W. Tolbert v.s. Robt. Sample

 

Amiable Demand for Book Debt

Defendant appears and confesses Judgment for 2.50

 

 

                                                        16 Nov. 1809

 

Wm. Tolbert v.s. Powel Bird

 

Amicable Demand for Book debt

Defendant appears and Confesses Judgment for            2.53

 

29 Decr. 1809  Defendant paid demand by the Bonds of Lewis Donalley  2.53

13 Febr. 1810  1.00 plurity ___ the hands of Messrs. Fahnesock & Brindle

 

                                                       18 Nov. 1809

 

C.W. v.s. Jonas Youns

 

Oath

 

I William Russell of Elkland Township Lycoming Coy.  yeoman do swear that I am in fear that Jonas Youns of Shrewsbury Township Lycoming Co. ______ will do me some corporal hurt by beating or killing me he having threatened & swore by Jesus that he would sacrifice, massacre, tear me to pieces, or words to that effent and that I am in fear to remain in my own House - I therefore request the Surity of the Peace against the said Jonas Youns which I do in real fear & not out of Malice or for vexation.  William Russell

 

Sworn & subscribed before me this 18 Novr. 1809  Edw J. Eldred

 

Warrant

 

Lycoming County S.S.

 

The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania to the Constable of the Township of Shrewsbury in the County of Lycoming, Greeting -

[Seal]   Whereas Wm. Russell of the township of Elkland in the County of Lycoming - yeoman hath this day made Oath before Edw. J. Eldred esq. One of the Justices of the Peace in and for the County of Lycoming - that Jonas Youns of Shrewsbury Township Lycoming County  laborer  hath threatened to do him harm in person or estate. You are hereby commanded to take the said Jonas Youns and bring him before the said Edw. J. Eldred or some other Justice of the peace of the said County forthwith to find sufficient surety as well for his appearance at the next court of Quarter Sessions of the peace to be held in &  for the said county to be provided against  according to Law as that in the mean time he be of his good behavior & keep the peace towards all our citizens & especially towards the said William Russell - witness the said Edw J. Eldred at Elkl land Township aforesaid the eighteenth day of November in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred & nine -  Edw. J. Eldred

 

William Russell bound in $50 to appear

Taken and acknowledged the 18^th day of November 1809 before me - Edw. J. Eldred

 

                                                            28 Nov. 1809

 

By Wm. Russell to Ellis Watson Clk of the Ct.

 

Jonas Youns of Shrewsbury Township Laborer (Yeoman written through) tent. 50 Dollars

Robt. Lambert of Shrewsbury Township Yeoman tent. 50 Dollars

 

                                                            30 Nov. 1809

 

- Issued Supersedias [Editor's Note: L. to desist]  see 77 Graydon

30 Nov. 1809

 

Taken Note 30 Novr. 1809 - Edw. J. Eldred

 

                                                                                        1810

 

                                                           January 10^th 1810

 

Jos. Reeves v.s. C.W.

 

Oath

 

I  Joseph Reeves do swear that on the 7^th day of Jany. inst. In the Township of Elkland, County of Lycoming did kill the Panther the head of which I here produce

 

Sworn and subscribed this tenth day of Jany. 1810  Joseph Reeves

Before me - Edw. J. Eldred

 

Order

 

Lycoming County SS.

 

To the Commissioners of the County of Lycoming,

 

[Seal]  I do certify that Joseph Reeves of the township of Elkland in the county of Lycoming  yeoman  appears before me one of the Justices of the peace in and for the county aforesaid, this day, and on his oath declares and says that a certain Panther (whose head is produced before me by the said Joseph Reeves) was killed by the said Joseph Reeves on the seventh day of the present instant Jany, at the said township of Elk-lands and Having destroyed such head do certify the fact to you the Commissioners in order the said Joseph Reeves may obtain an Order for Eight Dollars on the Treasurer as by law directed - given under my hand and seal at Elkland township, the tenth day of January in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and ten.   Edw, J. Eldred

 

                                               

                                                         February 26^th 1810

 

Lycoming County S.S.

 

The voluntary examination of Sarah Bird of Shrewsbury Township in the County of Lycoming  single woman taken on oath before me Edw. J. Eldred esquire one of the Justices of the Peace in and for the said County the Twenty sixth day of Feby anno Domini one thousand eight hundred and ten who saith, that on or about the twenty fourth day of July last past and at several times since, a certain Joel Bennett of Shrewsbury Township in the said County yeoman had carnal knowledge of her body, whereby she the examinant is now big with child and that the said Joel Bennett is the father of the said child and further saith not - Sarah Bird

 

Taken & signed before me - Edwd. J. Eldred

 

Lycoming County S.S.

 

The commonwealth of Pennsylvania to the Constable of the Township of Shrewsbury in the county of Lycoming, greeting -

 

[Seal]  Whereas Sarah Bird of Shrewsbury township in the county of Lycoming, single woman, hath this day made oath before Edw. J. Eldred esq., one of our Justices of the peace in and for the said County aforesaid that on or about the Twenty fourth day of July last past and at several times since, a certain Joel Bennett of Shrewsbury Township in the said county yeoman had carnal knowledge of her body whereby she the said Sarah Bird is now big with child and that the said Joel Bennett is the father of the said Child. _______ am therefore to command you to take the said Joel Bennett and bring him before the said Edw. J. Eldred or some other Justice of the Peace of the said County forthwith, to be examined concerning the premises and further to be dealt with according to Law. Witness the said Edwd. J. Eldred at Elkland Township the twenty sixth day of February in the year of our Lord one thousand eight. Hundred and ten   Edw. J. Eldred

 

 

                                                            March 18 1810

 

Joel Bennett married Sarah Bird  both of Shrewsbury Township -

 

By Edward J. Eldred   The mark of Joel X Bennett - Sarah Bennett

 

Witnesses - Powell Bird, Lida Bird, the mark of Thos. X Bennett, Sarah Warren, Jane Warren, The mark of Hester X Bird

By desire - Job ______, Ruth Bird

 

                                                            April 3^rd 1810

 

George Bird v.s. C.W.

 

Oath

 

I George Bird do swear that on this day morning in the township of Shrewsbury County of Lycoming - I did kill the Woolf (sic) the head of which I here produce -

The mark of Geo. X Bird

 

Sworn & Subscribed this third day of April 1810 before me - Edw. J. Eldred

 

Order

 

Lycoming County S.S. -

 

[Seal]  To the Commissioners of the County of Lycoming, I do certify &c &c - E.J.E.

 

 

                                                             May 3^rd 1810

 

Jonas Youns yeoman married Dorcas Garner widow, both of Elkland Township

 

By Edwd. J. Eldred   The mark of Jonas X Youns - Dorcas X Youns

 

Witnesses - John Cooksey, Ritch. Sample, the mark of Sarah X Sample

Present - Ruth Sample, James Sample, Mary Sample, Anna Sample, Eliz. Sample, Rich. Youns, John Coney, Thomas Coney

 

 

                                                            May 15^th 1810

 

Jno. Rogers v.s. C.W.

 

Oath

 

I John Rogers do swear that on Wednesday last the ninth day of the present instant May in the township of Shrewsbury, County of Lycoming did kill the Panther whelp the head of which I here produce - John Rogers

 

Sworn and subscribed this fifteenth day of May 1810 before me - Edwd. J. Eldred

 

Order

 

Lycoming County S.S.

 

[Seal]  To the Commissioners of the County of Lycoming I do certify &c &c  E.J.E.

 

 

                                                            May 22^nd 1810

 

Jos. Priestley v.s. Fran. Boyles

 

Amicable  Book amount  See Bill thereof                      20.58½

 

Day 22^nd - 22^nd May 1810 Defendant appears & Confesses Judgment for 20.58½

New Judgment confessed the 3 June 1811  Edw. J. Eldred

                                                            June 22^nd 1810

 

Samuel & Jonathan Rogers v.s. Saml. Rogers & wife

 

Acknowledged Deed

 

 

                                                       September 22^nd 1810

 

Jno. Bull v.s. Francis Bull & Eliz. His wife

 

Acknowledged Deed of Partition

 

 

                                                       September 29^th 1810

 

Jonathan Rogers yeoman  Shrewsbury Township

marr. Elizabeth Snell  Spinster Elkland Township

 

by Edwd. J. Eldred  Jonathan Rogers - Elizabeth Rogers

 

Witnesses - William Snell, Hannah R. Rogers, Mary Eldred

Present - Edw. A. Eldred, Mary Eldred, Sarah Eldred, Elizabeth Eldred, Willm. J. Eldred, Henry M.J. Eldred, John W. Eldred

 

 

                                                            5 October 1810

 

I  Joel McCarty of the Township of Elkland duly elected assessor of the said Township do solemnly seriously and truly declare and affirm that I will diligently faithfully and impartially perform the several duties enjoined on me by an act of the General Assembly passed the Seventh day of April AD 1799 entitled “An Act to raise and collect County Rates and Levies” to the best of my abilities and Judgment without favor or affection hatred malice or ill will -  Joel McCarty

 

Taken and Subscribed before me - 5 October 1810 - Edwd. J. Eldred

 

 

                                                            October 9^th 1810

 

Jno. Bull yeoman marr. Eleanor Bird  Spinster

 

By Edwd. J. Eldred    John Bull - the mark of Eleanor X Bull

 

 

Witnesses - Powell Bird, Lida Bird, The mark of Thos. X Bennett, Joel Bennett, Francis Bull, William King, Daniel Little, George Bird, Sarah Bennett, Sarah Warren, Hester X Bird, Rebecca Bird, Eliz. X Gorman her mark -

 

 

                                                            Novr. 1^st 1810

 

Lycoming County S.S.

 

To the Commissioners of the County of Lycoming

 

[Seal]   I do Certify that Jonas Youns of Elkland Township County of Lycoming yeoman appears before me, one of the Justices of the Peace in and for the said County, this day and on his examination declares and says that a certain Red Fox (whose head is produced before me by the said Jonas Youns) was killed by him the said Jonas Youns this day in the said township of Elkland and Having destroyed such head do certify the facts to you the Commissioners in order that he may obtain an order on the Treasurer for Two Shillings Given under my hand and seal at Elkland Township this first day of November in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred & ten.  E.J.E.

 

 

                                                                                        1811

 

                                                                                11 Jany. 1811

 

Lycoming County S.S.

 

            To the Commissioners of the County of Lycoming

 

[Seal]  I do certify that George Bird of Shrewsbury Township Lycoming County yeoman appears before me one of the Justices of the Peace in and for the said County this day, and on his oath declares and says that certain wolf and a certain red Fox (whose heads are produced before me by the said George Bird the wolf this day morning and the red Fox about the twenty eight day of December last at the said Township of Shrewsbury and Having destroyed such heads do certify the facts to you the Commissioners in order that he the said George Bird be as by law retained by the Treasurer a note for the sum of Eight Dollars and two shillings - Given under my hand and Seal at Elkland Township this eleventh day of January in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and eleven. Edwd. J. Eldred

 

Oath -  (Shd, been entd. first)

 

I  George Bird do swear that on this day morning in the Township of Shrewsbury County of Lycoming did kill the wolf and on or about the twenty eight day of December last did kill the Red Fox the heads of which I here produce.  George Bird

 

Sworn and subscribed this eleventh day of Jany, 1810 before me - Edw. J. Eldred

 

 

                                                          January 25^th 1811

 

I William Molyneux of Shrewsbury Township duly elected assistant assessor of the said township do solemnly swear that I will diligently faithfully and impartially perform the several duties enjoined on me by an act of the general assembly, passed the eleventh day of April AD 1799 entitled “an act to raise and collect County Rates & Levies” to the best of my ability and judgment without favor or affection hatred malice or ill will -

William Molyneux

 

Taken & subscribed before me 25 January 1811 - Edw. J. Eldred

 

                                                      

                                                         January 27^th 1811

 

Thomas Molyneux yeoman Married Hannah Rogers

 

By Edwd. J. Eldred   Thomas Molyneux - Hannah Molynaex (sic)

 

Witnesses - Mary Eldred, Elizabeth Molyneux, John Rogers, William Rogers, Richard   Rogers

Present - Edw. A Eldred, Mary Eldred, Sarah Eldred, Eliz Eldred, William J. Eldred, Henry M.J. Eldred, Jno. Eldred

 

                       

                                                         January 29^th 1811                    

 

We William King and Charles Mullan of Elkland Township duly elected assistant Assessors of the said Township do solemnly swear that we will diligently, faithfully and impartially perform the several duties enjoined on us by an act of the general assembly passed the eleventh day of April AD 1799 entitled “an Act to raise and collect County Rates & Levies” to the best of our ability and Judgment with out favor or affection hatred malice or ill will -  William King  Charles Mullan Jr.

 

Taken and Subscribed before me - 29 January 1811 - Edw. J. Eldred

 

 

                                                          16 March 1811

 

Order 5 Kid Fox Scalps to Jno. Rogers  Shrewsbury Township

 

 

                                                           21 April 1811

 

Jno. Rogers yeoman   Married  Sarah Lambert  spinster both of Shrewsbury Township

 

By Edwd. J. Eldred J.P.    John Rogers - Sarah Rogers

 

Witnesses - Rebecca Lambert, Francis Bull, William Rogers, Joseph Lambert, Thomas             Molyneux, David Rogers, Elizabeth Bull, Hannah Molyneux, Elizabeth       Molyneux, Richard Rogers

Present - Maria, Robert, Rebecca Lambert, Sarah Bull

 

                                                         22 April 1811

 

Lycoming County S.S.

 

The information of Jonas Youns of Elkland Township in the County of Lycoming yeoman taken on oath before me Edwd. J. Eldred one of the Justices of the Peace in and for the County aforesaid the twenty second day of April in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and eleven, who saith, that Robert Sample of Elkland Township Lycoming County aforesaid yeoman the said twenty second day of April at Elkland Township aforesaid ( being a married man and having a wife in full life) did commit adultery with a certain Dorcas Youns the wife of this informant and further saith not -

The mark of Jonas X Youns

 

Sworn and subscribed before me - Edwd. J. Eldred

 

 

Warrant

 

Lycoming County S.S.

 

[Seal]   The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania to the Constables of Elkland Township in the County of Lycoming Greeting -

 

Whereas Jonas Youns of Elkland Township in the said County yeoman hath made oath before Edwd. J. Eldred one of our Justices of the Peace in and for the County aforesaid that Robt. Sample of said Township and County yeoman this twenty second day of April present at Elkland Township aforesaid (being a married man and having a wife in full life) did commit adultery with a certain Dorcas Youns the wife of the said Jonas Youns - contrary to the act of general assembly in such case made and provided:  you are therefore hereby commanded to take the said Robt. Sample and bring him before the said Edwd. J. Eldred or some other Justice of the Peace of the said County forthwith to answer the said charge and further to be dealt with according to law - witness the said Edwd. J. Eldred at Elkland Township the 22 April 1811 - Edwd. J. Eldred

 

                                                             23 April 1811

 

Robt. Sample brought up and denied the facts given on the examination of Dorcas Youns in the presence of myself Wm King and Joseph Reeves but separate and apart from her Husband & the Prisoner - She acknowledged that Robt. Sample over persuaded her to go to the Barn & that she was there acquainted with him as man and wife.

 

Jonas Youns bound in 100 $ to appear &c

 

 

Lycoming County S.S.

 

[Seal]  The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania to the Constable of Elkland Township in the County of Lycoming and to the keeper of the Common Gaol of the said County Greeting -

 

Whereas Robert Sample of Elkland Township in the County of Lycoming yeoman hath been brought before Edwd. J. Eldred one of the Justices of the Peace in & for the said County charged with committing Adultery with a certain Dorcas Youns the wife of Jonas Youns of the said Township & County yeoman, contrary to the act of General Assembly  in such case made and provided  And whereas the said Robt. Sample hath refused and still doth refuse to find sufficient Sureties for his appearance at the next court of quarter Sessions of the Peace to answer the said charge.  These are therefore to command you the said Constable to convey the said Robt. Sample forthwith to the Common gaol of the said County and deliver him to the keeper thereof who is thereby also enjoined to receive the said Robt. Sample and keep him in safe Custody until he find Sufficient Sureties as aforesaid or is otherwise legally discharged - Witness the said Edwd J. Eldred at Elkland Township aforesaid this 23 April 1811 -

 

 

                                                             24 April 1811

 

I  Jno. Bull do swear that the names of the abovementioned Children were taken down by the assessor and that I have charged for their Schooling at the usual rates of charging for tuition in the school wherein I taught. So help me God - Copy signed Jno. Bull

 

Sworn & Subscribed before me this 24 Apr. 1811 - Edwd J. Eldred

 

 

***

 

Jno. Bull v.s. Jas. Henderson

 

Constable Wm King  Issued 24 April 1811 to appear Tuesday 30 April 1 o clk

 

Summons of ___ Constable sworn 26 April 1811

 

Demand not exceeding 100 Dollars

 

Note dated 23 Aug. 1809

            W Int                           17.          Note

            Int.                                 1.40  

                                                18.40

            Book aud                     26.88               45.58

            ______                                                    .38

Parties appear, Judgement for plaintiff   45.20

30 April 1811

 

 

                                                             18 May 1811                        

 

Geo. Bird v.s. C.W.

 

I George Bird do swear that on the 14^th last in the Township of Shrewsbury I did kill the Panther the head of which I here produce  George Bird

 

Sworn & Subscribed this 18 day of May 1811 by me Edwd. J. Eldred

 

Order

 

Lycoming County S.S.

 

[Seal]  To the Comms. &c &c

 

I do certify - for the Bounty allowed by law  E.J. Eldred

 

 

                                                              3 June 1811

 

Jos. Priestley v.s. Francis Boyles

 

Amicable Judgement consisted 22 May 1810 - Renewed                      21.85

3 June 1811 Defendant appears & confesses Judgement for                  21.85  EJE

New Judgement confessed 25 Sept. 1812 EJE

 

***

 

Jos. Priestley v.s. F. Boyles

 

Mortgage deed  ask  ?

 

***

 

Josh. Priestley v.s. Jno. Coney

 

Mortgage deed ask  ?

 

 

                                                         27 September 1811

 

Venous Parker v.s. Lewis Donnelley

 

Summons  Trespass for Damages

 

Lycoming County S.S.

 

The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania to the Constable of the Township of Elkland in the County of Lycoming  Greeting

 

[Seal]  We command you that you summon Lewis Donnelley of Elkland Township in the County of Lycoming yeoman so that he appear before Edwd. J. Eldred esqr. One of the Justices of the Peace in and for the said County on Friday the fourth day of October next at two o clock in the afternoon to answer Venous Parker of a plea of trespass for damages not exceeding Fifty Dollars Witness the said Edward J. Eldred at Elkland Township aforesaid the twenty seventh day of September in the year of our Lord One thousand eight hundred and eleven - Edw. J. Eldred

 

Summons for Witnesses

 

William Donnelley & Robt. Sample both Elkland Township

 

4 Oct. 1811 - The Parties appear - but on a mutual agreement - it is agreed that Parker shall withdraw his Suit - paying the costs between them.

 

Present - Edw. J. Eldred, R. Sample, Amos Hogeland