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William Shepherd Foster, Sr.

Male 1718 - 1792  (74 years)


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  • Name William Shepherd Foster 
    Suffix Sr. 
    Birth ca Mar 1718  Accomack Co, Virginia, British America Find all individuals with events at this location 
    Gender Male 
    Inheritance 7 Oct 1718  Accomack Co, Virginia, British America Find all individuals with events at this location 
    19 May 1718 [date of instrument] - 7 Oct 1718 [date of probate] To grandson William Shephard Foster, son of John & Elizabeth Foster plantation in Accomack, said John & Elizabeth to have life int. in said land provided they care for my wife Mary Shephard. Friends James Kemps & Naomi his wife to see that my wife is well taken care of during her life. Elizabeth & John Foster Exrs. Witt: Simon Smith, James Wishart, Naomi Kempe, James Kempe - p. 144. 
    • Stratton Nottingham. Wills and Administrations of Accomack County, Virginia, 1663-1800 (Bowie, MD, Heritage Books, Inc., 1990) 58-59.
    Maps 1728  Craven Co, North Carolina, USA Find all individuals with events at this location 
    Map of Craven County, North Carolina, ca. 1712    		 Map of Craven County, North Carolina, ca. 1712
    Craven County was formed from Craven Precinct which was formed in 1705 from Bath County and in 1712 by name change from Archdale Precinct. The following counties were formed from Craven: Carteret in 1722, New Hanover in 1729, Johnston in 1746, part of Dobbs in 1764, Jones in 1778, part of Pitt in 1787, Pamlico in 1872. Part of Craven County was moved to the following: Lenoir in 1798, 1804, & 1818, Greene in 1801, and Pamlico in 1875; part of Beaufort was moved to Craven in 1801.
    Witness 26 Jul 1736  Craven Co, North Carolina, USA Find all individuals with events at this location 
    An assignment from Isaac Eldrege, Cooper, Co. of [blank] to Henry Tucker, all my right oth the within mentioned deed...Wit: Jno. Collins, Wm Foster. Sep Court 1746. Jno Rice, Dept Regr. 
    • (1) North Carolina. Craven County. Deed Book 3-267, 3 Apr 1744, #210. (2) Weynette Parks Haun. Craven County, North Carolina Deed Abstracts: Deed Book 3, 1744-1746 (Durham, NC: n. p., 2005), 37.
    Property, Real 2 Feb 1742  Craven Co, North Carolina, British America Find all individuals with events at this location 
    • (1) North Carolina. Craven County. Deed Book 1-167, 2 Feb 1742. William Shephard Foster to Thomas Smith, 200 acres. (2) Weynette Parks Haun. Craven County, North Carolina Deed Abstracts: Deed Book I, Deed Book 5, 1707-1775 (Durham, NC: n. p., 1996), 21. (3) Laura Willis. Craven County, North Carolina Deeds --Volume One, ca 1730-1742 (Mayfield KY: Simmons Historical Publications, 2003), 45. (4) Stephen E. Bradley, Jr., abst. Craven County, North Carolina, 1742-1801, Vol 2, Deeds, Wills, Inventories ( Lawrenceville, VA: S.E. Bradley, 2001), 2.
    William Shepard Foster to Thomas Smith, both of Craven Co, North Carolina, the sale of 200 acres in Accomack County, Virginia.    		 William Shepard Foster to Thomas Smith, both of Craven Co, North Carolina, the sale of 200 acres in Accomack County, Virginia.
    I, William Shephard Foster, planter, Craven County, for and in consideration of the sum of 250 pounds to me in hand paid by Thomas Smith of the same county, have sold to Smith a tract of land containing 200 acres, and lying in Accomack County in the colony of Virginia on the south side of a beaver dam belonging to a branch of Crooked Creek & bound Northerly by the said dam & branch Westerly by line of marked trees of the land that was formerly RATLEFFS and now belongs to Mr. Samuel Sanford which said line of marked trees are drawn from the fork of said branch South by West three hundred forty and four poles unto a corner tree thence bounded for the Southern bounds by a line of marked trees drawn Southeast by South seven degrees Easterly one hundred forty and two poles unto a corner tree thence for the Eastern bounds by a line of marked trees drawn South by East three hundred and eighty pole unto the said beaver dam branch. Wit: Nathan Smith, Thomas Ridgon Smith. Acknowledged 2 Apr 1743. N. Routledge, Deputy Registrar.
    Witness 3 Apr 1744  Craven Co, North Carolina, USA Find all individuals with events at this location 
    By Act made at Edenton 4 Nov 1723 appointing Cullen Pollock, R.D. Graves & Wm Handcock Commrs...Walter Lane is appointed in place of R.D. Graves decd...Walter Lane & Wm. Handcock Commrs. to Abiah Bangs, 40S, lots No. 89 & 91, 1A, beg at Jonathan Bangs back corner of lot No. 87 on Handcocks Street...Wit: Joseph Slocomb, Wm Shepard Foster. 
    • (1) North Carolina. Craven County. Deed Book 2-384, 3 Apr 1744, #536. (2) Weynette Parks Haun. Craven County, North Carolina Deed Abstracts: Deed Book 2, 1706-1765 (Durham, NC: n. p., 2005), 79. (3) Dr. Albert Bruce Pruitt. Abstracts of Deeds Craven Co, NC, Books 2, 3, & 4, 1708-1765 (n.p.: A.B. Pruitt, 2004), 61-62. [Original Deed Book 2-384] (4) Dr. A. B. Pruitt. Abstracts of Deeds Craven Co, NC, 1728-1761 (n.p.: A.B. Pruitt, 2004), 130.
    Court Minutes 18 Sep 1747  Craven Co, North Carolina, British America Find all individuals with events at this location 
    Issued. Upon the information of James Durham on Oath that Sundry persons as underneath inserted having been duly warned to give in their Lists of Tithables for the year 1746 failed to do the same. Ordered that a Summons issue to Compel the said delinquents to appear at the next Court to shew cause why they did not give in their List of Tithables. Pursuant to said warning & law of this Province Vizt: William Shepherd Foster. 
    • Weynette Parks Haun. Craven County, North Carolina: County Court Minutes, 1742-1748, Book III. (Durham, NC: n. p., 1983), 111-112. [Original Court Minute Book p 605-22]
    Land Grant/Warrant 11 Oct 1748  Craven Co, North Carolina, British America Find all individuals with events at this location 
    Wm Shepard was granted 300 acres in Craven County by a council held at New Bern. 
    • William L. Saunders, comp. The Colonial Records of North Carolina: published under the supervision of the Trustees of the Public Libraries by order of the General Assembly. Vol IV-1734-1752 (Raleigh, NC: P. M. Hale, Printer to the State, 1886), 896.
    Court Minutes Feb 1752  Craven Co, North Carolina, British America Find all individuals with events at this location 
    Court proceeded to appoint Constables for the ensuing Year as followeth Vizt: William Foster in the room of Joseph Sanderson. 
    • Weynette Parks Haun. Craven County, North Carolina: County Court Minutes, 1749-1756, Book IV. (Durham, NC: n. p., 1987), 33. [Original Court Record p 73-98]
    Court Minutes 17 Feb 1753  Craven Co, North Carolina, USA Find all individuals with events at this location 
    Ordered that the following persons be appointed Constables in the room of the former ones for the ensuing year(to wit): Benjamin Brocket in the room of William Foster. 
    • Weynette Parks Haun. Craven County, North Carolina: County Court Minutes, 1749-1756, Book IV. (Durham, NC: n. p., 1987), 58. [Original Court Record p 135]
    Court Minutes 20 Feb 1756  Craven Co, North Carolina, British America Find all individuals with events at this location 
    William Foster served on Grand Jury. 
    • Weynette Parks Haun. Craven County, North Carolina: County Court Minutes, 1749-1756, Book IV. (Durham, NC: n. p., 1987), 140. [Original Court Record p 325-228]
    Military 1757  Craven County, North Carolina, British America Find all individuals with events at this location 
    Private, Captain Arthur Johnston's Company. Private muster on 5 Mar 1757. General Muster on 19 Apr 1757 
    • (1) Murtie June Clark. Colonial Soldiers of the South, 1732-1774 (Baltimore: Genealogial Publishing Co, Inc, 1983), 772. (2) Walter Clark, ed. The State Records of North Carolina: published under the supervision of the Trustees of the Public Libraries by order of the General Assembly. Vol XXII (Goldsboro, NC: Nash Brothers, Book and Job Printers, 1907), 392.
    Justice of Peace Feb 1759-May 1759  Craven Co, North Carolina, British America Find all individuals with events at this location 
    Court Minutes, John Taylor - Jacob Taylor - Wm. Shepherd Forster - Jno Ives, JPs. Edward Carter came into Court and prayed to have his ordinary Licence renewed granted he entering into Secty. as the Law directs. Ordered that the Clerk Make out a Certificate to Certify the assembly (sic) that Jno. Murphy has a Negro fellow named Harry Burnt in the Publick Goal of this County & that it is the Opinion of this Court that the Value of the said Negro when alive was twenty Pounds Procl Money. Joseph Leech, Jas. Davis, Leml. Hatch, Andw. Scott. 
    • Weynette Parks Haun. Craven County, North Carolina: County Court Minutes, 1757-1763, Book V. (Durham, NC: n.p., 1992), 234.
    Court Minutes 17 Feb 1759  Craven Co, North Carolina, British America Find all individuals with events at this location 
    The record was torn. William Shepherd Foster was mentioned as a Juror to attend Court. 
    • Weynette Parks Haun. Craven County, North Carolina: County Court Minutes, 1757-1763, Book V. (Durham, NC: n. p., 1992), 51.
    Friends, Acquaintances, Neighbors 20 Jan 1762  Craven Co, North Carolina, USA Find all individuals with events at this location 
    Wm Shepherd Foster purchased something from the estate sale of George Barber. 
    • (1) Dr. Albert Bruce Pruitt. Abstracts of Deeds Craven Co, NC, Books 6, 7, 8, 9 & 10, 1750-1758 (n.p.: A.B. Pruitt, 2005), 76. [Original Deed Book 8-184] (2) Dr. Stephen E. Bradley, abst. Craven County, North Carolina, 1737-1766, Vol 1, Deeds, Wills, Inventories (Lawrenceville, Va.: S.E. Bradley, 2001), 77.
    Witness 17 Apr 1764  Craven Co, North Carolina, USA Find all individuals with events at this location 
    Ernest Granade, gunsmith & wife Rachel to John Jones, both from Craven County, sell 240 acres on the south side of Neuse River below New Bern for 52 pounds proclamation money. Witnessed by Wm S. Foster & John Dunn. 
    • (1) Dr. Albert Bruce Pruitt. Abstracts of Deeds Craven Co, NC, Books 11, 12, & 13, 1761-1766 (n.p.: A.B. Pruitt, 2006), 51. [Original Deed Book 11-434] (2) Stephen E. Bradley, abst. Craven County, North Carolina, 1737-1766, Vol 1, Deeds, Wills, Inventories (Lawrenceville, Va.: S.E. Bradley, 2001), 53.
    Court Minutes 1 Jul 1766  Craven Co, North Carolina, British America Find all individuals with events at this location 
    Ordered that the following persons (towit): James Davis, Joseph Leech, William Gardner, James Smith, John Smith, Benjamin Sanderson, William Shepherd Foster, John Ives, Thos. Stevens, Thomas Smith, John Kinsey, and Samuel Smith be appointed a Jury to View layout and alter the Road leading from Island Creek downwards to Neuse Road, and to cross Brices Creek in the most convenient place for erecting a bridge and that after the said road be laid out and marked William Shepherd Foster be appointed Overseer of the same and that he summon the persons liable to work on the Old Road to work on the New road and build said Bridge in the best and most Expeditious manner. 
    • Weynette Parks Haun. Craven County, North Carolina: County Court Minutes, 1764-1771, Book VI. (Durham, NC: n. p., 1992), 56. [Original Book p 291 folio 50]
    Court Minutes 8 Oct 1766  Craven Co, North Carolina, USA Find all individuals with events at this location 
    William Shepard Foster came into Court and Declared on Oath that the Road lately laid out crossing Brices Creek through Mr. Moores old pasture is the most convenient place for a road, and it was thereupon Ordered that the said road as now laid out be and is hereby declared to be the Public Road and that William Shepard Foster Oerseer Do Summon the Taxables in his District to Work on said Road and build and keep in good repair the Bridge Crossing the said Creek. 
    • Weynette Parks Haun. Craven County, North Carolina: County Court Minutes, 1764-1771, Book VI. (Durham, NC: n. p., 1992), 56.
    Court Minutes 8 Apr 1767  Craven Co, North Carolina, USA Find all individuals with events at this location 
    Moses Spright v. George Hays: Issue. [Jury] (1) Jacob Miller (2) Thomas Mclin (3) Obadiah Always (4) William Bryan (5) James Pearce (6) Benjn Sutton (7) Ezekiel Adams (8) Harris Yeomans (9) Brazil Smith (10) William Shepd. Foster (11) William Dunn (12) John Dunn Jr. The before named Jury Impannelled and Sworn find their verdict Defendt. did assume and assess[es] Eight Pounds Proclam. Money (sic) and 6d. costs. 
    • Weynette Parks Haun. Craven County, North Carolina: County Court Minutes, 1764-1771, Book VI. (Durham, NC: n. p., 1992), 69. [Original Court Record p 355-356 folio 17]
    Court Minutes 8 Apr 1767  Craven Co, North Carolina, USA Find all individuals with events at this location 
    Patrick Gordon vs John Pendar: Issue. (1) William Bryan, (2) Jacob Miller, (3) Thomas McLin, (4) Obadiah Allways, (5) Benjamin Sutton, (6) Ezekiel Adams, (7) Harris Yeomans, (8) Ebenezer Slade, (9) John Pittman, (10) Wm. Shepd. Foster, (11) Thomas Rowe, (12) John Causey. The above Jury Impannelled and Sworn find their Verdict that the Defendant did assume and assess 9 pounds proc. Damages & 6d. costs. 
    • Weynette Parks Haun. Craven County, North Carolina: County Court Minutes, 1764-1771, Book VI. (Durham, NC: n. p., 1992), 69. [Original Court Record p 354]
    Court Minutes 8 Apr 1767  Craven Co, North Carolina, USA Find all individuals with events at this location 
    Thomas Whitford vs Isaac Barrington: Issue the same Jury as last Cause Except for William Shepard Foster in the Room of John Pittman being Impannelled and Sworn to find their verdict that the defendant did not assume. 
    • Weynette Parks Haun. Craven County, North Carolina: County Court Minutes, 1764-1771, Book VI. (Durham, NC: n. p., 1992), 69. [Original Book p 351]
    Petition Jun 1767  Craven Co, North Carolina, USA Find all individuals with events at this location 
    At the June term, 1767 of Craven Inferior Court. The petition of the habitants of Brice's Creek humbly show your Worships that an order of Court was obtained by James Davis, Esq., some time past for laying off a new road, loading out of Trent Road, over his mill across Neuse Road, over a large swamp; And, whereas, your petitioners have lately been at a great expense and trouble in making a new road a small distance above his mill and over Brice's Creek, we, your petitioners humbly pray your worships that the order obtained by James Davis, Esq., as aforesaid may be vacated or laid aside as your poor petitioners are by no means able to support both roads and your petitioners as in duty bound shall every pray. Brice's Creek, June 1767. John Smith, William Shepard Foster, Alexander Gaston, John Vickers, Thomas Smith, John Dunn, Richard Hickman, John Yeats, Benjamin B. Sanders, Peter Bootz, Charles Johnson, Arthur Johnson, John Smith, John Knox, Thomas Stevens, Benjamin Stevens, William Brockett. 
    • Elizabeth Moore. Records of Craven County, North Carolina. Vol I (Bladensburg, MD: Genealogical Recorders, 1960) 45.
    Court Minutes 11 Jul 1767  Craven Co, North Carolina, USA Find all individuals with events at this location 
    Ordered that William Shepard Foster and John Holland be appointed Patrols for the District from Island Creek down Trent and Neuse to Absalom Taylors for the Ensuing Year. 
    • Weynette Parks Haun. Craven County, North Carolina: County Court Minutes, 1764-1771, Book VI. (Durham, NC: n. p., 1992), 79-80. [original Book 407 folio 43]
    Property, Real 5 Oct 1767  Craven Co, North Carolina, USA Find all individuals with events at this location 
    • (1) North Carolina. Craven County. Deed Book, 21, pp 205-206. (2) Dr. Albert Bruce Pruitt. Abstracts of Deeds Craven Co, NC, Books 20, 21, 22, 23, & 24, 1772-1783 (n.p.: A.B. Pruitt, 2008), 52. [Original Deed Book 21, pp 205-206]
    Transfer of land from Brazell Smith to William Shepard Foster, 150 acres    		 Transfer of land from Brazell Smith to William Shepard Foster, 150 acres
    Brazell Smith to William Shpd. Foster [Sr], both of Craven County, sale of 150 acres [for 20 pounds proclamation money] on the south side of Neuse River & in the fork of Brices Creek; granted May 7, 1742, by Gov. Gab. Johnston to John Ives who sold it to Brazell Smith. Witnessed by William [Shpd Jr] Foster & John Foster, recorded in Court Session, Dec 1774.
    Court Minutes 17 Jun 1768  Craven Co, North Carolina, USA Find all individuals with events at this location 
    m.o. Ordered that the following persons be appointed (towit) James Davis, Chrisr. Neale, John Dunn, Thomas Smith, James Smith, Benjamin Sanderson, John Norwood, Richard Hickman, William Shepard Foster, Moses Almond, Timothy Clear & William Gardner a Jury to lay out a road from Neuse Road Crossing Davis's Mill to Trent Road near Benjamin Sandersons and that when said Road shall be laid out the Inhabitants of the District of which William Shepard Foster is overseer and of the District from Elizabeth Point to John Ives work on and maintain such parts as may fall in their districts of said Road, and also Ordered that, that part of the Road District from Elizabeth Point to John Ives and the Taxables on the West side of the Creek be Excluded from Working on the Roads of the East side thereof and that John Dunn be appointed overseer of the said New Road for the Ensuing Year. 
    • Weynette Parks Haun. Craven County, North Carolina: County Court Minutes, 1764-1771, Book VI. (Durham, NC: n. p., 1992), 93. [original Book 481-482 folio 80]
    Census 1769  Craven Co, North Carolina, British America Find all individuals with events at this location 
    State census, no township listed. 
    • Ron V. Jackson, Accelerated Indexing Systems, comp.. North Carolina Census, 1790-1890. Compiled and digitized by Mr. Jackson and AIS from microfilmed schedules of the U.S. Federal Decennial Census, territorial/state censuses, and/or census substitutes.
    Tax Records 1769-1770  Craven Co, North Carolina, British America Find all individuals with events at this location 
    No township listed. 
    Friends, Acquaintances, Neighbors 7 Sep 1772  Craven Co, North Carolina, USA Find all individuals with events at this location 
    Brazell Smith to John Fooks, both of Craven County, sale of 100 acres [for 20 pounds proclamation money] on the south side of Neuce River & on the south prong of Brices Creek; borders and begins at Wm Shepherd. Foster's corner on the run of the south prong of said creek. 
    • Dr. Albert Bruce Pruitt. Abstracts of Deeds Craven Co, NC, Books 20, 21, 22, 23, & 24, 1772-1783 (n.p.: A.B. Pruitt, 2008), 3. [Original Deed Book 20-44]
    Court Minutes 13 Dec 1774  Craven Co, North Carolina, USA Find all individuals with events at this location 
    A Deed of Sale from Bazell Smith to William Shepherd Foster for 150 acres of land in the fork of Brices Creek was acknowledged by the Grantor. NOTE. William Shepherd Foster, Jr. and John Foster were witnesses to the deed. 
    • (1) North Carolina. Craven County. Minutes, Court of Pleas & Quarter Sessions. Vol 1-180, folio 279. Deed of Sale dated 13 Dec 1774, Bazell Smith to William Shepherd Foster, 150 acres. (2) Weynette Parks Haun. Craven County, North Carolina: County Court Minutes, 1767-1778, Book VII. (Durham, NC: n. p., 1995), 61.
    Friends, Acquaintances, Neighbors 1 Nov 1780  Craven Co, North Carolina, USA Find all individuals with events at this location 
    John Council Bryan, high sheriff, to "Barett" Smith, both from Craven County; for 31 pounds sold 370 acres on the west side of Brices Creek; border begins at William Sheppard Foster's corner on Brice Creek. 
    • Dr. Albert Bruce Pruitt. Abstracts of Deeds Craven Co, NC, Books 25, 26, 27, & 28, 1782-1788 (n.p.: A.B. Pruitt, 2008), 66. [Original Deed Book 27-47]
    Friends, Acquaintances, Neighbors 4 Oct 1781  Craven Co, North Carolina, USA Find all individuals with events at this location 
    John Fookes, to Collinson Johnson, both of Craven County, sale of 100 acres [for 10 pounds] on the south side of Neuse River & the south prong of Brice Creek; begins ar run of the south prong of the said creek at William Shephard Foster's corner and joins John Fookes.  
    • Dr. Albert Bruce Pruitt. Abstracts of Deeds Craven Co, NC, Books 20, 21, 22, 23, & 24, 1772-1783 (n.p.: A.B. Pruitt, 2008), 154. [Original Deed Book 24-233]
    Friends, Acquaintances, Neighbors 1 Aug 1783  Craven Co, North Carolina, USA Find all individuals with events at this location 
    James Davis enters 150 acres in Craven Co in the fork of Brices Creek; borders John Ives and William Shepard Foster; issued 1 Nov 1783. 
    • (1) Virginia. Craven County. Record of Entries, Vol 1, 1778-1795, p 1 No 8, 1 Aug 1783, James Davis, 150 acres; issued 1 Nov 1783. (2) Dr. Albert Bruce Pruitt. Abstracts of Land Entries: Craven Co, NC, 1778-1796 (n.p.: A.B. Pruitt, 1991), 41. [Original Craven County Land Entries, 1778-1796, p 1 No 8]
    Property, Real 13 Feb 1784  Craven Co, North Carolina, USA Find all individuals with events at this location 
    • (1) North Carolina. Craven County. Deed Book 26, 1785-1786, pp 129-130. William Shepard Foster to John Oglesby, 100 acres. (2) Dr. Albert Bruce Pruitt. Abstracts of Deeds Craven Co, NC, Books 25, 26, 27, & 28, 1782-1788 (n.p.: A.B. Pruitt, 2008), 41. [Original Deed Book 26-129] (3) Weynette Parks Haun. Craven County, North Carolina: County Court Minutes, 1779-1786, Book VIII. (Durham, NC: n. p., 1995), 100.
    Sale of 100 acres by William S. Foster.     		Sale of 100 acres by William S. Foster.
    William S. Foster to John Oglesby both of Craven Co, NC...for the sum of 300 pounds...center piece of land being and lying in Craven County and on the south side of Neuce River and in the fork of Brices Creek containing 100 acres..begins at a white oak on the south side of the west prong of Brices Creek. Signed: William Shephard Foster. Witnesses: William Ives & John "Pollock" Ives; witness oath Sept 1785 by Wm Ives. Recorded by Wm Bryan, CC Sept Craven County Court, 1785.
    Court Minutes Dec 1784  Craven Co, North Carolina, USA Find all individuals with events at this location 
    Ordered that William Ives, William Shepard Foster, and John Ives be appointed to divide the lands of John Dunn, deceased. agreeable [sic] to Law between the Widow of Decd. and the Heirs. 
    • Weynette Parks Haun. Craven County, North Carolina: County Court Minutes, 1779-1786, Book VIII. (Durham, NC: n. p., 1995), 79.
    Friends, Acquaintances, Neighbors 30 Jun 1787  Craven Co, North Carolina, USA Find all individuals with events at this location 
    William Good enters 200 acres in Craven Co on the south side of Trent River & east & west sides of Brices Creek; borders William Shepard Foster and Miller's old patent; issued. 
    • (1) Virginia. Craven County. Record of Entries, Vol 1, 1778-1795, p 47 No. 347, 30 Jun 1787, William Good, 200 acres. (2) Dr. Albert Bruce Pruitt. Abstracts of Land Entries: Craven Co, NC, 1778-1796 (n.p.: A.B. Pruitt, 1991), 70. [Original Craven Co Land Entries, 1778-1796, p 47, No 347]
    Friends, Acquaintances, Neighbors 26 Oct 1787  Craven Co, North Carolina, USA Find all individuals with events at this location 
    James & William Davis to David Henry, all of Craven County; for 25 pounds [?] acres on south side of a westernmost branch of Brice Creek about Foster's bridge; begins at a post on the run of the said creek by William Sheppard Fosters's upper corner of the patent to William Johnson. 
    • Dr. Albert Bruce Pruitt. Abstracts of Deeds Craven Co, NC, Books 25, 26, 27, & 28, 1782-1788 (n.p.: A.B. Pruitt, 2008), 144. [Original Deed Book 28-463]
    Property, Real 12 Mar 1789  Craven Co, North Carolina, USA Find all individuals with events at this location 
    • (1) Virginia. Craven County. Record of Entries, Vol 1, 1778-1795, p 79 No. 547, 12 Mar 1789, William Shepard Foster, 150 acres; issued 1 May 1789. (2) Dr. Albert Bruce Pruitt. Abstracts of Land Entries: Craven Co, NC, 1778-1796 (n.p.: A.B. Pruitt, 1991), 89. [Original Craven County Land Entries, Vol 1, 1778-1796, p 79 No. 547]
    Land Entry for William Shepard Foster    		 Land Entry for William Shepard Foster
    William Shepard Foster enters 150 acres in Craven Co on the south side of Brices Creek joining the line of Robert Johnston, John Oglesbys line, William Good, & the line formerly of John Ives including the "plantation" where Tilleniam Foster lives; issued May 1, 1789.
    Property, Real 23 Nov 1789  Craven Co, North Carolina, USA Find all individuals with events at this location 
    • North Carolina. Craven County Register of Deeds. Deed Book 29-104.
    Quit claim deed between John Ives and William Shepard Foster    		 Quit claim deed between John Ives and William Shepard Foster
    Settles boundary line between John Ives and William Shepard Foster. Witnessed by B. Smith. Recorded in Craven County Court at the June term 1791.
    Census 1790  Craven Co, North Carolina, British America Find all individuals with events at this location 
    Newborn District. William Shepherd Foster Sr. and his wife, Martha Smith, with 10 slaves. 
    1790 Census for Craven County, North Carolina, Newburn District    		 1790 Census for Craven County, North Carolina, Newburn District
    --Foster, William Shepherd, his wife, Martha (Smith) Foster and 10 slaves.
    --Foster, Brazel--free white male of 16 and up: 1, free white females: 3
    --Foster, Philemon--free white male of 16 and up: 1, free white males under 16: 2, free white females: 2
    Death 24 Dec 1792  Craven Co, North Carolina, USA Find all individuals with events at this location 
    Probate Mar-Jun 1793  Craven County, North Carolina, USA Find all individuals with events at this location 
    • North Carolina. Craven County. County Court of Pleas & Quarter Sessions. Loose estate records, 1740-1870. NOTE: Located at North Carolina Department of Archives and History. Microfilm at FamilySearch. Accessioned 22 Aug 2019.
    Settlement of Last Will & Testament of William Shepherd Foster, Sr.    		 Settlement of Last Will & Testament of William Shepherd Foster, Sr.
    Estate Settlement of William Shephard Foster by John & Brazell Foster, two of his sons. Includes Letters of Administration, Inventory, Division of Negroes, Sales of Property, and Division of Real Property. Heirs: Kimmie Foster, William S. Foster Jr., John Foster, Brazel Foster, Martha Kinsey, Philemon Foster, Heirs of Frederick Foster, and Elizabeth
    Probate 11 Mar 1793  Craven Co, North Carolina, USA Find all individuals with events at this location 
    Court of Common Pleas and Quarter Sessions. 105-Then were John and Bazil Foster appointed Administrators &c on the Estate of William Shepard Foster deceased and the said John & Bazil entered into Bond with John Banks and Carney as Securities in the Sum of Two Thousand pounds. Then were John and Bazil Foster appointed Guardians to Perrin Foster son of Frederick Foster deceased upon entering into Bond with the same securities as last above mentioned in the sum of Five hundred pounds. 
    • Victor T. Jones, Jr., trans. Craven County Court of Pleas and Quarter Sessions: March 1792 to March 1795 (Ernul, NC: Maple Branch Publishing, 2017), 75. [Original Court Records p 105]
    Probate Jun 1793  Craven Co, North Carolina, USA Find all individuals with events at this location 
    Craven County Court of Pleas and Quarter Sessions. 133-An Inventory and Account Sales of the Estate of William Sheppard Foster was returned & filed. A Division of Negroes belonging to the Estate of Wm. Sheppard Foster decd. was returned by the persons appointed at last Term to divide the same, and ordered to be Recorded. 
    • Victor T. Jones, Jr., trans. Craven County Court of Pleas and Quarter Sessions: March 1792 to March 1795 (Ernul, NC: Maple Branch Publishing, 2017), 94-95. [Original Court Record p 133]
    Property, Real 18 Sep 1793  Craven Co, North Carolina, USA Find all individuals with events at this location 
    • (1) North Carolina. Craven County. Deed Book 32, p 395. (2) Dr. Albert Bruce Pruitt. Abstracts of Deeds Craven Co, NC, Books 32, 33, & 34, 1794-1801 (n.p.: A.B. Pruitt, 2011), 36. [Original Deed Book 32, p 395]
    Kimme Foster, William Foster, John Foster & Brazel Foster establish the title & boundary to brother Philemon Foster for the 73 acres inherited from their father William Shepard Foster.    		 Kimme Foster, William Foster, John Foster & Brazel Foster establish the title & boundary to brother Philemon Foster for the 73 acres inherited from their father William Shepard Foster.
    Kimme Foster, William Foster, John Foster, & Brazel Foster, brothers & sons of William Shepard Foster who died intestate, to our brother Philamon Foster; we agree to divide the land of our father; following is Philamon's share: 73 acres in the fork of Brices Creek; border: begins at a gum tree on the south side of a run of the southwest prong; where he lives. Signed: Kimmie Foster's mark "B", William [Shephard] Foster [Jr.], John Foster, & Bazel Foster's mark "X". Witnesses: William McClure & Robert Johnson; wit. oath Sept 1795 by William McClure.
    Probate 10 Dec 1793  Craven Co, North Carolina, USA Find all individuals with events at this location 
    Craven County Court of Pleas and Quarter Sessions. 191-Read the Petition of John Foster for Division of the Real Estate of Wm. Shepard Foster decd. amongst the Heirs. Ordered that Prayer of said Petition be Granted and that John Blanks, John Porter, Richard Hickman, Benja. Tolson & Robert Johnston be appointed commissioners to lay off & divide appropriate[ly] the said Estate agreeable to law.  
    • Victor T. Jones, Jr., trans. Craven County Court of Pleas and Quarter Sessions: March 1792 to March 1795 (Ernul, NC: Maple Branch Publishing, 2017), 143 [Original Court Record p 191]
    Probate Jun 1794  Craven Co, North Carolina, USA Find all individuals with events at this location 
    Craven County Court of Pleas and Quarter Sessions. 239-A Division of the Real Estate of William S. Foster decd. was returned by three of the Commissioners appointed to Divide the same and ordered to be Rescinded. 
    • Victor T. Jones, Jr., trans. Craven County Court of Pleas and Quarter Sessions: March 1792 to March 1795 (Ernul, NC: Maple Branch Publishing, 2017), 183. [Original Court Record p 239]
    Burial unknown 
    Person ID I10106  My Genealogy
    Last Modified 17 Jun 2021 

    Father John Foster, Sr.,   b. ca 1682, Accomack Co, Virginia, British America Find all individuals with events at this locationd. 5 May 1719, Accomack Co, Virginia, British America Find all individuals with events at this location (Age 37 years) 
    Mother Elizabeth Shepherd,   b. ca 1700, Accomack Co, Virginia, British America Find all individuals with events at this locationd. ca 1742, Accomack Co, Virginia, British America Find all individuals with events at this location (Age 42 years) 
    Marriage ca 1717  Accomack Co, Virginia, British America Find all individuals with events at this location 
    Family ID F4064  Group Sheet  |  Family Chart

    Family Martha Smith,   b. ca 1727, Virginia, British America Find all individuals with events at this locationd. 8 Mar 1788, Craven Co, North Carolina, USA Find all individuals with events at this location (Age 61 years) 
    Marriage Jan 1742  Craven Co, North Carolina, British America Find all individuals with events at this location 
    Children 
    +1. Kimmie Foster,   b. ca 1743, Craven Co, North Carolina, British America Find all individuals with events at this locationd. 25 Mar 1816, Morgan Co, Georgia, USA Find all individuals with events at this location (Age 73 years)
    +2. William Shepherd Foster, Jr.,   b. ca 1745, Craven Co, North Carolina, British America Find all individuals with events at this locationd. Dec 1811, Claiborne Co, Mississippi, USA Find all individuals with events at this location (Age 66 years)
    +3. John Foster,   b. ca 1749, Craven Co, North Carolina, British America Find all individuals with events at this locationd. 1 May 1829, Henry Co, Georgia, USA Find all individuals with events at this location (Age 80 years)
    +4. Brazel Foster,   b. ca 1751, Craven Co, North Carolina, British America Find all individuals with events at this locationd. Feb 1801, Hancock Co, Georgia, USA Find all individuals with events at this location (Age 50 years)
    +5. Martha Elizabeth Foster,   b. ca 1753, Craven Co, North Carolina, British America Find all individuals with events at this locationd. ca 1804, Warren Co, Georgia, USA Find all individuals with events at this location (Age 51 years)
    +6. Frederick Foster,   b. ca 1755, Craven Co, North Carolina, British America Find all individuals with events at this locationd. ca 1792, Craven Co, North Carolina, USA Find all individuals with events at this location (Age 37 years)
    +7. Philemon Foster, Sr.,   b. ca 1758, Craven Co, North Carolina, British America Find all individuals with events at this locationd. Oct 1816, Hancock Co, Georgia, USA Find all individuals with events at this location (Age 58 years)
     8. Elizabeth Foster,   b. ca 1760, Craven Co, North Carolina, USA Find all individuals with events at this locationd. Oct 1784, Perquimans Co, North Carolina, USA Find all individuals with events at this location (Age 24 years)
    Family ID F4061  Group Sheet  |  Family Chart
    Last Modified 22 Nov 2021 

  • Event Map
    Link to Google MapsMaps - 1728 - Craven Co, North Carolina, USA Link to Google Earth
    Link to Google MapsWitness - An assignment from Isaac Eldrege, Cooper, Co. of [blank] to Henry Tucker, all my right oth the within mentioned deed...Wit: Jno. Collins, Wm Foster. Sep Court 1746. Jno Rice, Dept Regr. - 26 Jul 1736 - Craven Co, North Carolina, USA Link to Google Earth
    Link to Google MapsMarriage - Jan 1742 - Craven Co, North Carolina, British America Link to Google Earth
    Link to Google MapsProperty, Real - 2 Feb 1742 - Craven Co, North Carolina, British America Link to Google Earth
    Link to Google MapsWitness - By Act made at Edenton 4 Nov 1723 appointing Cullen Pollock, R.D. Graves & Wm Handcock Commrs...Walter Lane is appointed in place of R.D. Graves decd...Walter Lane & Wm. Handcock Commrs. to Abiah Bangs, 40S, lots No. 89 & 91, 1A, beg at Jonathan Bangs back corner of lot No. 87 on Handcocks Street...Wit: Joseph Slocomb, Wm Shepard Foster. - 3 Apr 1744 - Craven Co, North Carolina, USA Link to Google Earth
    Link to Google MapsCourt Minutes - Issued. Upon the information of James Durham on Oath that Sundry persons as underneath inserted having been duly warned to give in their Lists of Tithables for the year 1746 failed to do the same. Ordered that a Summons issue to Compel the said delinquents to appear at the next Court to shew cause why they did not give in their List of Tithables. Pursuant to said warning & law of this Province Vizt: William Shepherd Foster. - 18 Sep 1747 - Craven Co, North Carolina, British America Link to Google Earth
    Link to Google MapsLand Grant/Warrant - Wm Shepard was granted 300 acres in Craven County by a council held at New Bern. - 11 Oct 1748 - Craven Co, North Carolina, British America Link to Google Earth
    Link to Google MapsCourt Minutes - Court proceeded to appoint Constables for the ensuing Year as followeth Vizt: William Foster in the room of Joseph Sanderson. - Feb 1752 - Craven Co, North Carolina, British America Link to Google Earth
    Link to Google MapsCourt Minutes - Ordered that the following persons be appointed Constables in the room of the former ones for the ensuing year(to wit): Benjamin Brocket in the room of William Foster. - 17 Feb 1753 - Craven Co, North Carolina, USA Link to Google Earth
    Link to Google MapsCourt Minutes - William Foster served on Grand Jury. - 20 Feb 1756 - Craven Co, North Carolina, British America Link to Google Earth
    Link to Google MapsMilitary - Private, Captain Arthur Johnston's Company. Private muster on 5 Mar 1757. General Muster on 19 Apr 1757 - 1757 - Craven County, North Carolina, British America Link to Google Earth
    Link to Google MapsJustice of Peace - Court Minutes, John Taylor - Jacob Taylor - Wm. Shepherd Forster - Jno Ives, JPs. Edward Carter came into Court and prayed to have his ordinary Licence renewed granted he entering into Secty. as the Law directs. Ordered that the Clerk Make out a Certificate to Certify the assembly (sic) that Jno. Murphy has a Negro fellow named Harry Burnt in the Publick Goal of this County & that it is the Opinion of this Court that the Value of the said Negro when alive was twenty Pounds Procl Money. Joseph Leech, Jas. Davis, Leml. Hatch, Andw. Scott. - Feb 1759-May 1759 - Craven Co, North Carolina, British America Link to Google Earth
    Link to Google MapsCourt Minutes - The record was torn. William Shepherd Foster was mentioned as a Juror to attend Court. - 17 Feb 1759 - Craven Co, North Carolina, British America Link to Google Earth
    Link to Google MapsFriends, Acquaintances, Neighbors - Wm Shepherd Foster purchased something from the estate sale of George Barber. - 20 Jan 1762 - Craven Co, North Carolina, USA Link to Google Earth
    Link to Google MapsWitness - Ernest Granade, gunsmith & wife Rachel to John Jones, both from Craven County, sell 240 acres on the south side of Neuse River below New Bern for 52 pounds proclamation money. Witnessed by Wm S. Foster & John Dunn. - 17 Apr 1764 - Craven Co, North Carolina, USA Link to Google Earth
    Link to Google MapsCourt Minutes - Ordered that the following persons (towit): James Davis, Joseph Leech, William Gardner, James Smith, John Smith, Benjamin Sanderson, William Shepherd Foster, John Ives, Thos. Stevens, Thomas Smith, John Kinsey, and Samuel Smith be appointed a Jury to View layout and alter the Road leading from Island Creek downwards to Neuse Road, and to cross Brices Creek in the most convenient place for erecting a bridge and that after the said road be laid out and marked William Shepherd Foster be appointed Overseer of the same and that he summon the persons liable to work on the Old Road to work on the New road and build said Bridge in the best and most Expeditious manner. - 1 Jul 1766 - Craven Co, North Carolina, British America Link to Google Earth
    Link to Google MapsCourt Minutes - William Shepard Foster came into Court and Declared on Oath that the Road lately laid out crossing Brices Creek through Mr. Moores old pasture is the most convenient place for a road, and it was thereupon Ordered that the said road as now laid out be and is hereby declared to be the Public Road and that William Shepard Foster Oerseer Do Summon the Taxables in his District to Work on said Road and build and keep in good repair the Bridge Crossing the said Creek. - 8 Oct 1766 - Craven Co, North Carolina, USA Link to Google Earth
    Link to Google MapsCourt Minutes - Moses Spright v. George Hays: Issue. [Jury] (1) Jacob Miller (2) Thomas Mclin (3) Obadiah Always (4) William Bryan (5) James Pearce (6) Benjn Sutton (7) Ezekiel Adams (8) Harris Yeomans (9) Brazil Smith (10) William Shepd. Foster (11) William Dunn (12) John Dunn Jr. The before named Jury Impannelled and Sworn find their verdict Defendt. did assume and assess[es] Eight Pounds Proclam. Money (sic) and 6d. costs. - 8 Apr 1767 - Craven Co, North Carolina, USA Link to Google Earth
    Link to Google MapsCourt Minutes - Patrick Gordon vs John Pendar: Issue. (1) William Bryan, (2) Jacob Miller, (3) Thomas McLin, (4) Obadiah Allways, (5) Benjamin Sutton, (6) Ezekiel Adams, (7) Harris Yeomans, (8) Ebenezer Slade, (9) John Pittman, (10) Wm. Shepd. Foster, (11) Thomas Rowe, (12) John Causey. The above Jury Impannelled and Sworn find their Verdict that the Defendant did assume and assess 9 pounds proc. Damages & 6d. costs. - 8 Apr 1767 - Craven Co, North Carolina, USA Link to Google Earth
    Link to Google MapsCourt Minutes - Thomas Whitford vs Isaac Barrington: Issue the same Jury as last Cause Except for William Shepard Foster in the Room of John Pittman being Impannelled and Sworn to find their verdict that the defendant did not assume. - 8 Apr 1767 - Craven Co, North Carolina, USA Link to Google Earth
    Link to Google MapsPetition - At the June term, 1767 of Craven Inferior Court. The petition of the habitants of Brice's Creek humbly show your Worships that an order of Court was obtained by James Davis, Esq., some time past for laying off a new road, loading out of Trent Road, over his mill across Neuse Road, over a large swamp; And, whereas, your petitioners have lately been at a great expense and trouble in making a new road a small distance above his mill and over Brice's Creek, we, your petitioners humbly pray your worships that the order obtained by James Davis, Esq., as aforesaid may be vacated or laid aside as your poor petitioners are by no means able to support both roads and your petitioners as in duty bound shall every pray. Brice's Creek, June 1767. John Smith, William Shepard Foster, Alexander Gaston, John Vickers, Thomas Smith, John Dunn, Richard Hickman, John Yeats, Benjamin B. Sanders, Peter Bootz, Charles Johnson, Arthur Johnson, John Smith, John Knox, Thomas Stevens, Benjamin Stevens, William Brockett. - Jun 1767 - Craven Co, North Carolina, USA Link to Google Earth
    Link to Google MapsCourt Minutes - Ordered that William Shepard Foster and John Holland be appointed Patrols for the District from Island Creek down Trent and Neuse to Absalom Taylors for the Ensuing Year. - 11 Jul 1767 - Craven Co, North Carolina, USA Link to Google Earth
    Link to Google MapsProperty, Real - 5 Oct 1767 - Craven Co, North Carolina, USA Link to Google Earth
    Link to Google MapsCourt Minutes - m.o. Ordered that the following persons be appointed (towit) James Davis, Chrisr. Neale, John Dunn, Thomas Smith, James Smith, Benjamin Sanderson, John Norwood, Richard Hickman, William Shepard Foster, Moses Almond, Timothy Clear & William Gardner a Jury to lay out a road from Neuse Road Crossing Davis's Mill to Trent Road near Benjamin Sandersons and that when said Road shall be laid out the Inhabitants of the District of which William Shepard Foster is overseer and of the District from Elizabeth Point to John Ives work on and maintain such parts as may fall in their districts of said Road, and also Ordered that, that part of the Road District from Elizabeth Point to John Ives and the Taxables on the West side of the Creek be Excluded from Working on the Roads of the East side thereof and that John Dunn be appointed overseer of the said New Road for the Ensuing Year. - 17 Jun 1768 - Craven Co, North Carolina, USA Link to Google Earth
    Link to Google MapsCensus - State census, no township listed. - 1769 - Craven Co, North Carolina, British America Link to Google Earth
    Link to Google MapsTax Records - No township listed. - 1769-1770 - Craven Co, North Carolina, British America Link to Google Earth
    Link to Google MapsFriends, Acquaintances, Neighbors - Brazell Smith to John Fooks, both of Craven County, sale of 100 acres [for 20 pounds proclamation money] on the south side of Neuce River & on the south prong of Brices Creek; borders and begins at Wm Shepherd. Foster's corner on the run of the south prong of said creek. - 7 Sep 1772 - Craven Co, North Carolina, USA Link to Google Earth
    Link to Google MapsCourt Minutes - A Deed of Sale from Bazell Smith to William Shepherd Foster for 150 acres of land in the fork of Brices Creek was acknowledged by the Grantor. NOTE. William Shepherd Foster, Jr. and John Foster were witnesses to the deed. - 13 Dec 1774 - Craven Co, North Carolina, USA Link to Google Earth
    Link to Google MapsFriends, Acquaintances, Neighbors - John Council Bryan, high sheriff, to "Barett" Smith, both from Craven County; for 31 pounds sold 370 acres on the west side of Brices Creek; border begins at William Sheppard Foster's corner on Brice Creek. - 1 Nov 1780 - Craven Co, North Carolina, USA Link to Google Earth
    Link to Google MapsFriends, Acquaintances, Neighbors - John Fookes, to Collinson Johnson, both of Craven County, sale of 100 acres [for 10 pounds] on the south side of Neuse River & the south prong of Brice Creek; begins ar run of the south prong of the said creek at William Shephard Foster's corner and joins John Fookes. - 4 Oct 1781 - Craven Co, North Carolina, USA Link to Google Earth
    Link to Google MapsFriends, Acquaintances, Neighbors - James Davis enters 150 acres in Craven Co in the fork of Brices Creek; borders John Ives and William Shepard Foster; issued 1 Nov 1783. - 1 Aug 1783 - Craven Co, North Carolina, USA Link to Google Earth
    Link to Google MapsProperty, Real - 13 Feb 1784 - Craven Co, North Carolina, USA Link to Google Earth
    Link to Google MapsCourt Minutes - Ordered that William Ives, William Shepard Foster, and John Ives be appointed to divide the lands of John Dunn, deceased. agreeable [sic] to Law between the Widow of Decd. and the Heirs. - Dec 1784 - Craven Co, North Carolina, USA Link to Google Earth
    Link to Google MapsFriends, Acquaintances, Neighbors - William Good enters 200 acres in Craven Co on the south side of Trent River & east & west sides of Brices Creek; borders William Shepard Foster and Miller's old patent; issued. - 30 Jun 1787 - Craven Co, North Carolina, USA Link to Google Earth
    Link to Google MapsFriends, Acquaintances, Neighbors - James & William Davis to David Henry, all of Craven County; for 25 pounds [?] acres on south side of a westernmost branch of Brice Creek about Foster's bridge; begins at a post on the run of the said creek by William Sheppard Fosters's upper corner of the patent to William Johnson. - 26 Oct 1787 - Craven Co, North Carolina, USA Link to Google Earth
    Link to Google MapsProperty, Real - 12 Mar 1789 - Craven Co, North Carolina, USA Link to Google Earth
    Link to Google MapsProperty, Real - 23 Nov 1789 - Craven Co, North Carolina, USA Link to Google Earth
    Link to Google MapsCensus - Newborn District. William Shepherd Foster Sr. and his wife, Martha Smith, with 10 slaves. - 1790 - Craven Co, North Carolina, British America Link to Google Earth
    Link to Google MapsDeath - 24 Dec 1792 - Craven Co, North Carolina, USA Link to Google Earth
    Link to Google MapsProbate - Mar-Jun 1793 - Craven County, North Carolina, USA Link to Google Earth
    Link to Google MapsProbate - Court of Common Pleas and Quarter Sessions. 105-Then were John and Bazil Foster appointed Administrators &c on the Estate of William Shepard Foster deceased and the said John & Bazil entered into Bond with John Banks and Carney as Securities in the Sum of Two Thousand pounds. Then were John and Bazil Foster appointed Guardians to Perrin Foster son of Frederick Foster deceased upon entering into Bond with the same securities as last above mentioned in the sum of Five hundred pounds. - 11 Mar 1793 - Craven Co, North Carolina, USA Link to Google Earth
    Link to Google MapsProbate - Craven County Court of Pleas and Quarter Sessions. 133-An Inventory and Account Sales of the Estate of William Sheppard Foster was returned & filed. A Division of Negroes belonging to the Estate of Wm. Sheppard Foster decd. was returned by the persons appointed at last Term to divide the same, and ordered to be Recorded. - Jun 1793 - Craven Co, North Carolina, USA Link to Google Earth
    Link to Google MapsProperty, Real - 18 Sep 1793 - Craven Co, North Carolina, USA Link to Google Earth
    Link to Google MapsProbate - Craven County Court of Pleas and Quarter Sessions. 191-Read the Petition of John Foster for Division of the Real Estate of Wm. Shepard Foster decd. amongst the Heirs. Ordered that Prayer of said Petition be Granted and that John Blanks, John Porter, Richard Hickman, Benja. Tolson & Robert Johnston be appointed commissioners to lay off & divide appropriate[ly] the said Estate agreeable to law. - 10 Dec 1793 - Craven Co, North Carolina, USA Link to Google Earth
    Link to Google MapsProbate - Craven County Court of Pleas and Quarter Sessions. 239-A Division of the Real Estate of William S. Foster decd. was returned by three of the Commissioners appointed to Divide the same and ordered to be Rescinded. - Jun 1794 - Craven Co, North Carolina, USA Link to Google Earth
     = Link to Google Earth 

  • Notes 

    • Last name: Foster


      This very interesting English medieval surname, the family name of the Lords Oriel of Ireland, has at least four possible origins. The first is an occupational name for a saddle tree maker, a very important occupation seven hundred or more years ago. Here the derivation is from the Old French "fustier", itself originating from the word "fustre", meaning a block of wood. This term was introduced into Britain after the 1066 Norman French invasion. Secondly, and again occupational, the name may describe a maker or user of "forcetier", these being steel shears widely used in both agriculture and textile production. A third possibility is that Foster is a contracted or dialectal spelling of Forester, a term which described a civil officer in charge of a forest. John Forester, who was recorded in the 1183 Pipe Rolls of the county of Surrey, was the first recorded bearer of this name. The last possible origin is very unusual. Here the derivation is from a shortened spelling of the Olde English pre 7th Century compound "cild-fostre", and as such an occupational nickname for a foster parent or possibly a foster child. John Foster, who was recorded in the 1373 Court Roll of the borough of Colchester, Essex, was of this source. The surname was one of the very first into the New England colonies of America. John Foster, age unknown, being recorded as being "alive in Virginea, on February 18th 1623". The first recorded spelling of the family name is probably that of Durand le Fuster, which was dated circa 1179, in the "Register of St. Bartholomew's Hospital", London, during the reign of King Henry 11nd, known as "The Builder of Churches", 1154 - 1189.


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