Descendants of Adam Hitch

2. William HITCH was born on 31 Oct 1687 in Somerset Co., MD ^² and died in Apr 1730 in Somerset Co., MD at age 42.

General Notes: In the 1724 Tax List for Wicomico Hundred, Somerset County, Maryland, William Hitch is listed in a household with Edward MaLamery. In the 1725 Tax List for Nanticoke Hundred, Somerset County, Maryland, William Hitch is listed in a household as the only taxable. In the 1727 Tax List for Wicomico Hundred, Somerset County, Maryland, William Hitch is listed in a household as the only taxable. His house is adjacent to those of Adam/Elget Hitch, Saml Hitch, and Jno Hitch. On May 6 1728, William Heatch received a deed of gift for 405 acres of land from his father Adam Heatch and "Mary, his wife" (SoLR-SH:26). In the 1728 Tax List for Wicomico Hundred, Somerset County, Maryland, William Hitch is listed in a household as the only taxable.

William Hitch's will was probated on Apr 10 1730 as follows: ·I give my real estate to sons William, Thomas, John, and Nehemiah, the eldest to have first choice. ·To my son Ezekiel I give £10 to be paid to him when he reaches the age of eighteen. ·All sons to be free at age 18. ·Wife to be executrix. ·To my daughter Rachel a bed and other household goods. ·My father, Thomas Humphries, and my brother Solomon Heatch to be trustees. Testator: John Heatch, Samuel Heatch, and Cornelius Linch (Wills:20, 63; also SoW-EB9:131, also SoWorig).

William Heatch's estate was inventoried between May 6 1730 and Feb 15 1730/31 at a value of £101.2.6 with appraisers Isaac Handy and John Handy; creditors Timothy Atkinson and Solomon Heatch; next-of-kin listed as Solomon Heatch and John Heatch and Administratrix/Executrix was Rachel Heatch. (MdPrI-16:174). On Aug 18 1731, the records show, Rachel Heatch executrix of Wm. Heatch "to the dec'd estate then acct for" £101.2.6. Adam Heatch and Thomas Gillis, sureties. (SoJ-1730/33:144).

William married Rachel GILLISS, daughter of John GILLISS and Mary (?), about 1715 in Somerset Co., MD. Rachel was born about 1695.

General Notes: It must be noted here that, for years, Hitch genealogies have assumed as "fact" the following:

·William Hitch (1687-1731), son of Adam, married Rachel Humphreys (of Thomas) and, ·William Hitch (c.1719-1771), son of William above (and who was thought to be son of Solomon - see later details for that one, under Solomon Hitch [1694-1748]), married Mary Whittington?

These "facts" have been based upon conjecture surrounding the will of John Gilliss the fact she named a son Gillis Hitch. He was born in Accomack circa 1662, and died before bef Aug 15 1720, the son of Thomas Gilliss and Mary Manlove. His will of 20 Aug 1720 mentions four daughters: Rebecca, Sarah, Betty and Bridget; and four sons-in-law: Thomas Humphreys, William Hitch, Abraham Taylor and Solomon Wright. Note that John Gilliss' daughter who married a William Hitch was a married woman in 1720. You would need a later generation for the wife of William Hitch of William. Now the only William Hitch old enough to have married a John Gilliss daughter is William (1687-1730) of Adam. The problem with this is that William's wife is confirmed as named Rachel in his probate of 1730/1732 so we are left with:

(a) the hypothesis is wrong, or (b) Rachel is a Gilliss, or (c) the wife Gilliss died between 1720 and 1730 and William remarried to a Rachel _____.

A possible answer is that we should not assume that John Gilliss listed all his daughters in his will - four. Maybe there were possibly eight (8) daughters; the four mentioned (Rebecca, Sarah, Betty and Bridget) being single and four (4) more that were married to the four (4) sons-in-law (Thomas Humphreys, William Hitch, Abraham Taylor and Solomon Wright). As for William (of William) naming a son Gillis Hitch, it was simply because he named him after his grandmother's maiden name - not at all uncommon at the time. Additionally, he also named a son Whittington Hitch - this may clue as to the real surname of Mary, w/o William of William. That is why I now surmise that William Hitch (c. 1719-1771) of William's wife may be nee Mary WHITTINGTON. The REAL fact is there is still a cloud over who was the wife of William Hitch (1687-1730). However, it seems very likely (odds on at 90% plus) that she was a Gilliss and probable that her name was Rachel Gilliss (75%).

General Notes: In the August Court of 1732 for Somerset Co., Rachell Hitch offered, with Daniel Cordry and Timothy Adkinson, bond of £139.4.2 for orphans William, John, Nehemiah, Rachell and Ezekiel Hitch "of William HITCH, dec'd". Balance due from account of estate of £64.12.1 to be paid when they are "of full age." (Somerset Co. Judicials, 8/1730-6/1733, Folio 248)

+ 13 M ii. William HITCH was born about 1719 in Somerset Co., MD and died between 17 Nov 1771 and 27 Dec 1771 in Dorchester Co., MD (Now Sussex Co., DE) about age 52.

General Notes: Probably born between William and John. Never made Tax List and in 3/27/1754-55 land sale it indicated that he "died before age 21." Also was not mentioned when, in the August Court of 1732 for Somerset Co., Rachell Hitch offered, with Daniel Cordry and Timothy Adkinson, bond of £139.4.2 for orphans William, John, Nehemiah, Rachell and Ezekiel Hitch "of William HITCH, dec'd". Balance due from account of estate of £64.12.1 to be paid when they are "of full age." (Somerset Co. Judicials, 8/1730-6/1733, Folio 248)

+ 15 M iv. John HITCH was born in 1723 in Somerset Co., MD and died between 30 Jul 1767 and 10 Aug 1769 in Somerset Co., MD about age 44.

+ 16 M v. Nehemiah HITCH was born about 1724 in Somerset Co., MD and died between 16 Oct 1774 and 22 Mar 1775 in Somerset Co., MD about age 50.

+ 17 M vi. Ezekiel HITCH was born from 1730 to 1731 in Somerset Co., MD and died about 1758 in Somerset Co., MD about age 28.

3. Mary HITCH was born on 27 Sep 1689 in Somerset Co., MD and died after 1757 in Somerset Co., MD.

Birth Notes: Somerset County Land Records (SoLR-IKL), Mary Heatch, daughter of Adam and Ann Heatch was born Sep 27 1689.

Death Notes: Mary Price is listed as head of household in Somerset County Tax List of 1749 in Wicomico Hundred. Adam Price is with her - probably indicating he was still a minor at the time.

Mary married John PRICE about 1710 in Somerset Co., MD. John died between 1728 and 1730 in Somerset Co., MD.

18 M i. John PRICE was born before 1715 in Somerset Co., MD ^⁴ and died in 1745.

General Notes: John Price was listed as an heir in Adam Hitch's 1731 will to get the 90 acres of land on which he lived. (SoLR-SH:295/297).

The inventory of John Price's estate was taken on November 16, 1745 by Joshua Caldwell, administrator. John Hitch and William Byrd were listed as creditors. The entire estate was listed as worth only £15.1.3.

+ 19 M ii. Thomas PRICE was born in 1719 in Somerset Co., MD and died after 1783 in Worcester Co., MD.

Birth Notes: First Time on Somerset Tax Lists was in 1737 with brother(?) John Price.

Birth Notes: First Time on Somerset Tax Lists was in 1739 with brother(?) John Price.

5. Solomon HITCH was born on 9 May 1694 in Somerset Co., MD and died between 14 Mar 1748 and 5 Apr 1748 in Somerset Co., MD about age 53.

Birth Notes: Somerset County Land Records (SoLR-IKL), Solomon Heatch, son of Adam and Ann Heatch was born May 9 1694.

Death Notes: Solomon Hitch's will was written Mar 14 1747/48 and probated Apr 5 1748 (SoW-25:360).

General Notes: WWhile the other Hitch families in this area remained primarily in the Wicomico Hundred of Somerset County, Solomon Hitch was in the Nanticoke Hundred by at least 1724. In the 1724 Tax List for Nanticoke Hundred, Somerset County, Maryland, Solomon Hitch was listed in a household as the only taxable. In the 1725 Tax List for Nanticoke Hundred, Somerset County, Maryland, Solomon Hitch was listed in a household as the only taxable.In the 1727 Tax List for Nanticoke Hundred, Somerset County, Maryland, Solomon Hitch was listed in a household as the only taxable. On May 6 1728, Solomon Heatch received a deed of gift for 310 acres of land from his father Adam Heatch and "Mary, his wife" (SoLR-SH:25). In the 1729 Tax List for Nanticoke Hundred, Somerset County, Maryland, Solomon Hitch was listed in a household as the only taxable. In the 1730 Tax List for Nanticoke Hundred, Somerset County, Maryland, Solomon Hitch was listed in a household with slave Cook.

On Jan 16 1730/31, Solomon Heatch received another deed of gift, this time for "one negro man called Franck" from Adam Heatch (SoLR-SH:295). For the estate of Crispin Price inventoried between May 6 1730 and Feb 15 1730/31, Solomon Heatch was listed as creditor. The estate was valued at £86.18.4. (MdPrI Abstracts-1729/34).

In the 1733 Tax List for Nanticoke Hundred, Somerset County, Maryland, Solomon Hitch was listed in a household with Michell Swillvin (Smullin?), Richard Chapman and slaves Frank and Cook. In the 1734 Tax List for Nanticoke Hundred, Somerset County, Maryland, Solomon Hitch was listed in a household with slaves Frank and Cook. In the Aug court of 1734, Solomon Hitch, planter, was appointed a guardian to Ann Price and Solomon Price who were both under age 14 at the time. (SoJ-1733/35:181). In the 1735 Tax List for Nanticoke Hundred, Somerset County, Maryland, Solomon Hitch was listed in a household with slaves Frank and Cook. A year later, in Aug 1735, Solomon Hitch appeared in court again in a suit versus John Parrimore. Mr. Parrimore claimed that he "found" 3 horses that Solomon claimed were his. The verdict was in favor of Solomon Hitch. (SoJ-1735/37:77). In the 1736 Tax List for Nanticoke Hundred, Somerset County, Maryland, Solomon Hitch was listed in a household with Adam Hitch and slaves Frank and Cook.

In Nov 1736, Solomon Hitch was a "guardian to Solomon Price whose brother Alexander Price chose Elgate Heatch as guardian " and Alexander is now dead. This court ruling transferred the estate of Alexander to Solomon Price under guardianship of Elgate Hitch. (SoJ-1735/37:264). In the 1738 Tax List for Nanticoke Hundred, Somerset County, Maryland, Solomon Hitch was listed in a household with Adam Hitch, Levin Hitch and slaves Frank and Cook.

In Aug 1738, the Somerset County Court "Ordered that a road be cleared from the Chapple at Spring Hill down Rewastico to the head of Little Creek and from thence acrofs the neck to Barren Creek mill to be under Solomon Hitch overseer the said Road to be laid out according to the direction of the said Solomon Hitch and Mitchele Dashiell of the least prejudice to any person whatsoever." (SoJ-1738/40:7) This was further stated in the Nov 1738 court where Solomon Hitch was appointed overseer of the road which leads " to Barron Creek and from thence unto the Main Road that leads from Viena ferry." (SoJ-1735/37:38). Finally, the Mar 1739 Court again ordered Solomon Hitch appointed as overseer of the roads in Wicomico Hundred "instead of Robert Twilly." (SoJ-1737/38).

In the 1739 Tax List for Nanticoke Hundred, Somerset County, Maryland, Solomon Hitch was listed in a household with Addam Hitch and Leven Hitch. In the 1740 Tax List for Nanticoke Hundred, Somerset County, Maryland, Solomon Hitch was listed in a household with Adam Hitch, Levin Hitch and slave Cook. In the Mar court of 1740/41, Solomon Hitch to recover 90 lbs. of tobacco against Patrick Connelly for his attendance for three days as evidence for his Lordship against Patrick Connelly. (SoJ-1740/42:92). In the 1743 Tax List for Nanticoke Hundred, Somerset County, Maryland, Solomon Hitch was listed in a household with Levin Hitch and negroes Frank, Rose and Cook..

In 1743, Solomon Hitch patented 21 acres of land called "Solomon's Security". On May 21 1744, Solomon Hitch paid £7.15.0 for a deed from William Weatherly, "son and heir to William Weatherly dec'd", for 100 acres of "land on Rewastico Creek which flows out of the Nanticoke River". The land called "Weatherlys Ridge" was formerly surveyed and taken up by James Weatherly. Begin at a marked pine standing on the north side of Rewastico back from the water in the woods at the west end of the land called "Weatherlys Ridge" thence N 100 poles, thence E 160 poles, thence S 100 poles, thence W to the first bounder, containing 100 acres. (SoLR-X-109) He was listed in the Somerset County Rent Rolls (SoRR-9:97) at that time for tract called "Weatherly's Ridge" (total 200 a, yr. rent £0.8.0) surveyed Dec 15 1679 on the north side of Rewastico Creek.

In the 1744 Tax List for Nanticoke Hundred, Somerset County, Maryland, Solomon Hitch was listed in a household with Levin Hitch and negroes Frank, Rose and Cook. In the 1745 Tax List for Nanticoke Hundred, Somerset County, Maryland, Solomon Hitch was listed in a household with Levin Hitch, Solomon Hitch and negroes Frank, Rose and Cook. In the 1746 Tax List for Nanticoke Hundred, Somerset County, Maryland, Solomon Hitch Sr. was listed in a household with Levin Hitch, Solomon Hitch Jr. and negroes Rose and Cooke. On Feb 24 1746/47, Solomon Hitch provided surety for the account of Christopher Nutter. (They Lived in Maryland, Somerset County 1726-1750, Liber EB14) In the 1747 Tax List for Nanticoke Hundred, Somerset County, Maryland, Solomon Hitch Sr. was listed in a household with Levin Hitch, Solomon Hitch Jr. and negroes Rose and Cooke. On Aug 21 1747, Solomon Hitch was on the list of court jurors. (SoCP (loose papers)-1747/51, MdHR 7266-32-25)

Solomon Hitch's will was written on Mar 14 1748 and probated Apr 5 1748 and left son Solomon Hitch land he bought from James Storey's heirs and half of land at Rockawalkin plus 2 slaves, Cook and Rose. Solomon Jr. was required to give his brother William one year of schooling and build him a house of about £15 price. ·Left son William Hitch the other half of land at Rockawalkin and one negro girl Sibey ·Left daughter Ann Hitch land given to him by William Weatherlee called "Powell's Folly" ·Left daughter Eve Hitch one negro girl Chloe ·Left daughter Rebecca Hitch, one negro girl Bynah ·Left son Levin, plantation I now live however, if son Levin dies without heir, William to have all of the land. ·To friend Joshua Inglish, son of William Inglish, one three year old heifer The will also mentions Elgate Hitch and Robert Givan to sell Negro man Frank and if they get £40, keep it, otherwise give the balance to Levin Hitch. Witnesses were James Weatherly, Thomas Ackworth, and Robert Farrington. (SoW-25:360; also SoWorig)

Solomon Hitch's estate was inventoried between Apr 14 and Jun 22 1748 at a value of £367.10.16. Appraisers were Isaac Handy and John Handy. Creditor was J. Dennis and next-of-kin were listed as Elgt Hitch and John Hitch. Executor was Solomon Hitch (Jr.) (MdPrI Abstracts-1744/48)

Solomon married Rebecca CLARK, daughter of (?) CLARK and Joanna BOWDITCH, about 1719 in Somerset Co., MD.

General Notes: Note that many Hitch histories and genealogies to date have surmised Rebecca, wife of Solomon Hitch, to be nee Thompson. However, there is a clear indication in the old Somerset County land records when, on February 18, 1751, there was a triparte land exchange for tracts "Ackworth's Folly" and "Discovery" that gives the final clues to Rebecca's identity. In these records, it states that Levin Hitch, son of Rebecca Hitch, formerly Rebecca Clark and Mary Storey, spinster, daughter of Joanna Storey, formerly Joanna Clark. It states further that Rebecca Hitch and Mary Storey are the only surviving daughters of Joanna Clark. This firmly identifies Solomon Hitch's wife as Rebecca Clark, daughter of Joanna Clark and unknown father Clark. In earlier records for transactions involving "Ackworth's Folly," in 1710/1715, Robert Bowditch gave the land to his wife Ann Bowditch and then to daughters Joanna Bowditch and Rebecca Clark and heirs. ("Land Records of Wicomico County," Ruth Dryden) This establishes Joanna Clark's maiden name as Bowditch (and, interestingly enough, she had a sister Rebecca Clark; hence, both must have married Mr. Clarks.)

24 M i. Adam HITCH was born in 1720 in Somerset Co., MD and died about 1749 in Somerset Co., MD about age 29.

General Notes: In the 1736 Tax List for Nanticoke Hundred, Somerset County, Maryland, Adam Hitch was listed in a household with Solomon Hitch (head of household) and slaves Frank and Cook. In the 1738 Tax List for Nanticoke Hundred, Somerset County, Maryland, Adam Hitch was listed in a household with Solomon Hitch (head of household), Levin Hitch and slave Cook. In the 1739 Tax List for Nanticoke Hundred, Somerset County, Maryland, Addam Hitch was listed in a household with Solomon Hitch (head of household) and Leven Hitch. In the 1740 Tax List for Nanticoke Hundred, Somerset County, Maryland, Adam Hitch was listed in a household with Solomon Hitch (head of household), Levin Hitch and slave Cook. In the 1743 Tax List for Wicomico Hundred, Somerset County, Maryland, Adam Hitch was listed in a household as the only taxable. In the 1744 Tax List for Nanticoke Hundred, Somerset County, Maryland, Adam Hitch was listed in a household as the only taxable. In the 1745 Tax List for Nanticoke Hundred, Somerset County, Maryland, Adam Hitch was listed in a household as the only taxable. In the 1746 Tax List for Nanticoke Hundred, Somerset County, Maryland, Adam Hitch was listed in a household as the only taxable.

In 1749, Adam Hitch is listed on the "Account of Mr. Joshua Caldwell" as "To Cash paid by Adam Hitch £4.4.0" (SoCP-1747/52, MdHR 7266-34-8).

25 M ii. Levin HITCH was born about 1723 in Somerset Co., MD and died after 1790 in Sussex Co., DE.

Birth Notes: Levin Hitch is listed for the first time on the Somerset County Tax Lists in 1738 suggesting he had reached age 15 near that time. (SoTL-1738)

General Notes: In the 1738 Tax List for Nanticoke Hundred, Somerset County, Maryland, Levin Hitch was listed in the same household as Adam Hitch, Solomon Hitch (head of the household) and slave Cook. In the 1739 Tax List for Nanticoke Hundred, Somerset County, Maryland, Levin Hitch was listed in the same household as Addam Hitch and Solomon Hitch. In the 1740 Tax List for Nanticoke Hundred, Somerset County, Maryland, Levin Hitch was listed in the same household as Adam Hitch, Solomon Hitch (head of the household) and slave Cook. In the 1743 Tax List for Nanticoke Hundred, Somerset County, Maryland, Levin Hitch was listed in the same household as Solomon Hitch (head of the household) and slaves Frank, Rose, and Cook. In the 1744 Tax List for Nanticoke Hundred, Somerset County, Maryland, Levin Hitch was listed in the same household as Solomon Hitch (head of the household) and slaves Frank, Rose, and Cook. In the 1745 Tax List for Nanticoke Hundred, Somerset County, Maryland, Levin Hitch was listed in the same household as Solomon Hitch (head of the household), Solomon Hitch and negroes Frank, Rose, and Cook. In the 1746 Tax List for Nanticoke Hundred, Somerset County, Maryland, Levin Hitch was listed in the same household as Solomon Hitch Sr. (head of the household), Solomon Hitch Jr. and negroes Rose and Cooke. In the 1747 Tax List for Nanticoke Hundred, Somerset County, Maryland, Levin Hitch was listed in the same household as Solomon Hitch Sr. (head of the household), Solomon Hitch Jr. and negroes Rose and Cooke. In the 1748 Tax List for Nanticoke Hundred, Somerset County, Maryland, Levin Hitch was listed in the same household as negro Frank.

On Aug 12 1748, Levin Hitch and his wife Eve, "the daughter of Crispin Price deceased", sold 100 acres of land called "Newbury" (Eve inherited the land on the death of her brother Solomon Price) for £50 to Obediah Read (SoLR-A:5). This is confirmed in the Rent Rolls where it lists the tract called "Newbury" (total 300 acres, yearly rent £0.12.0) surveyed Nov 27 1688 on south side of Rockawalkin where, with Eve his wife, he sold 100 acres. (SoRR-9:162).

In the 1749 Tax List for Nanticoke Hundred, Somerset County, Maryland, Levin Hitch was listed in a household as the only taxable. In the 1750 Tax List for Nanticoke Hundred, Somerset County, Maryland, Levin Hitch was listed in a household as the only taxable. On Nov 13 1750, the account of Robert Givan's estate was completed in Somerset County. In it is mentions amounts paid by Levin Hitch and paid to Rebecah Hitch. (MdPrA-29:118) In the 1751 Tax List for Nanticoke Hundred, Somerset County, Maryland, Levin Hitch was listed in a household as the only taxable.

On Feb 18 1751, there was a triparte land exchange for tracts "Ackworth's Folly" and "Discovery". In these records, it states that Levin Hitch, son of Rebecca Hitch, formerly Rebecca Clark and Mary Storey, spinster, daughter of Joanna Storey, formerly Joanna Clark. It states further that Rebecca Hitch and Mary Storey are the only surviving daughters of Joanna Clark. In the transaction, Levin Hitch and Mary Storey sold land to Robert Twilley and John Kellum the younger, 108 acres of "Ackworth's Folly." (Note, this firmly identifies Levin Hitch's mother, and Solomon Hitch's wife, as Rebecca Clark, daughter of Joanna Clark and unknown father Clark.)

On Jun 21 1751, Levin Hitch appeared in the Somerset County court because of a summons for "Daniel God late of Somerset County, Marriner" to "answer unto Levin Heatch of a plea of trespafs..." (SoCP (loose papers)-1747/51, MdHR 7266-32-14). In the 1752 Tax List for Nanticoke Hundred, Somerset County, Maryland, Levin Hitch was listed in a household as the only taxable. On Feb 3 1752, Levin Hitch sold cattle and a mill for £6.5.0 to John Kellum (SoLR-A:211). This may be related to a Feb 18 1752 sale noted in the Rent Rolls where a tract called "Discovery" (total 160 acres, yearly rent £0.6.56) surveyed May 5 1688 on south side of the Nanticoke River was sold by Levin Hitch and Mary Story to John Kellum. (SoRR- 9:156).

On Mar 3 1752, the account of Obediah Read's estate was completed in Somerset County. In it is mentions amounts paid to Robert Twilley for bond and passed to Levin Hitch. (MdPrA-32:81) On Mar 18 1752, Levin Hitch and Mary Story again got together, this time to buy a tract of land called "Ackworth's Folly" (total 300 acres, yearly rent £0.6.0) surveyed 18 Feb 1664 located on east side of the Nanticoke River near Rewastico Creek. They bought 100 acres from John Kellum. (SoRR-9:85) On Jul 2 1752, Levin Hitch appeared in court for a suit brought forth by Thomas Toadvine who he owed £4.10.0. Levin paid plus 287 lbs of tobacco costs. (SoJ-1752/54:18). In about 1753, Levin Heatch and Mary Story had a Provincial Court case versus John Killum. (MdPvC-EI(EJ?)14:487). He was listed on the 1785 Tax Assessment for Little Creek Hundred, Sussex County, Delaware and the 1790 Delaware Federal Census for Little Creek Hundred in Sussex County.

Levin married Eve PRICE, daughter of Crispin PRICE and Eve HITCH. Eve was born after 1720 in Somerset Co., MD.

Birth Notes: Eve Price was listed as under age 14 when she was assigned Elgate Hitch as guardian in 1734.

General Notes: In Aug 1734, Elgate Hitch was appointed guardian to Rachell Price & Eve Price (both under age 14). (Ibid:181/182). Eve Price married Levin Hitch, son of Solomon Hitch before 1748.

General Notes: In the court records of September 15, 1746, Robert King informed that Robert Twilly late of Stepney Parish "did comitt fornication with Ann Hitch and a Bastard Child on the body...". This seems to be the only Ann Hitch to which this event could apply. (SoCP (loose)- 1747/51; MdHR 7266-32-23)

+ 28 M v. William HITCH was born about 1728 in Somerset Co., MD and died between 1765 and 1767 in Somerset Co., MD about age 37.

+ 29 M vi. Solomon HITCH was born in 1730 in Somerset Co., MD and died between 24 Oct 1761 and 18 Nov 1761 in Somerset Co., MD about age 31.

6. John HITCH was born about 1696 in Somerset Co., MD and died between 9 Sep 1762 and 16 Mar 1763 in Somerset Co., MD about age 66.

Death Notes: John Hitch Sr.'s will was written on Sep 9 1762 and probated Mar 16 1763 (SoW-31:883)

General Notes: In 1722, John Hitch was mentioned in petition for a ferry over Wicomoco River with Adam Hitch Jr. and Sr.. This eventually became Upper Ferry circa 1727. (SoCP, MdHR 7266-1-4). In the 1724 Tax List for Wicomico Hundred, Somerset County, Maryland, John Hitch is listed in his household as the only taxable. In the 1725 Tax List for Wicomico Hundred, Somerset County, Maryland, John Hitch is listed in his household as the only taxable. In the 1727 Tax List for Wicomico Hundred, Somerset County, Maryland, John Hitch is listed in his household as the only taxable. In the 1728 Tax List for Wicomico Hundred, Somerset County, Maryland, John Hitch is listed in his household as the only taxable and as a defaulter of £0.3.6.

On May 6 1728, Jno. Heatch received a deed of gift for 94 acres of land from his father Adam Heatch and Mary Heatch, "his wife" (SoLR-SH:24). Also, on May 6 1728, John Hitch shows up in the Somerset County Rent Rolls for a tract called "Come By Chance" (total 560 acres, with an annual rent of £1.25.0) surveyed May 22 1707 for Adam Heat(c)h on the north side of the Wicomico River about 2 miles from said river about 20 poles from a mill dam branch known as Cottingham Creek. (SoRR-9:264).

On Oct 12 1728, John Hitch purchased land called "Fathers Neglect" from John Caldwell. This was land Caldwell had patented "on the north side of the head of Wicomico River back in the woods about one mile and one half from said river." John Hitch bought 126 acres as follows: beginning at a marked "hyquory" standing in the eastern most line of a tract now owned by Adam Hitch called "High Suffolk" and about one half mile eastward of William Hitch's house, thence S34W 240 poles, S29E 99 poles, N45E 82 poles, N31W 44 poles, N19E 50 poles, S66E 22 poles, S10E 52 poles, N45E 60 poles, N 48 poles. (SoLP, Cert 852)

In the 1729 Tax List for Wicomico Hundred, Somerset County, Maryland, John Hitch is listed in the same household as ______ Vinson. In the 1730 Tax List for Wicomico Hundred, Somerset County, Maryland, John Hitch is listed in his household as the only taxable. On Jan 16 1730/31, John Heatch received another deed of gift, this time for "one negrow woman called Mough (Moughyer)" from Adam Heatch (SoLR-SH:297). In the 1731 Tax List for Wicomico Hundred, Somerset County, Maryland, John Hitch is listed in the same household as slave Mow. On Aug 18 1731, John Heatch provided surety against the estate of Chrispin Price. James Smith and Eve his wife (This is John's sister Eve Hitch) were listed as executors (SoJ-1730/33:144). In the 1733 Tax List for Wicomico Hundred, Somerset County, Maryland, John Hitch is listed in the same household as an unnamed slave.

In 1734, John Hitch patented land called "Fathers Neglect" for 126 acres.

In the 1734 Tax List for Wicomico Hundred, Somerset County, Maryland, John Heatch is listed in the same household as slave Mow. In the 1735 Tax List for Wicomico Hundred, Somerset County, Maryland, John Hitch is listed in the same household as slave Mercer. In the 1736 Tax List for Wicomico Hundred, Somerset County, Maryland, John Heatch is listed in the same household as an unnamed slave. In the 1737 Tax List for Wicomico Hundred, Somerset County, Maryland, John Hitch is listed in the same household as Richard Nichols and slave Morah. In the 1738 Tax List for Wicomico Hundred, Somerset County, Maryland, John Hitch is listed in the same household as Richard Nichols and slave Mowear. In the 1739 Tax List for Wicomico Hundred, Somerset County, Maryland, John Heatch Sr. is listed in the same household as slave Mouah.

In Aug 1739, John Hitch faced the court to declare that "Stafford a negro boy of John Hitch being brought here unto court is adjudged to be the age of tenn years." (SoJ-1738/40:166). In the 1740 Tax List for Wicomico Hundred, Somerset County, Maryland, John Hitch is listed in the same household as slave Moyah. In Mar 1742, the Somerset County Court "ordered that John Hitch be overseer of the Roads instead of Thomas Covington from the foot of Caldwell's new bridge over Rockawalkin Branch through the woods to Walkers old field." (SoJ-1740/42:225). In the 1743 Tax List for Wicomico Hundred, Somerset County, Maryland, John Hitch Sr. is listed in the same household as slave Moryer. In the 1744 Tax List for Wicomico Hundred, Somerset County, Maryland, John Hitch Sr. is listed in the same household as slave Moroor. In the 1745 Tax List for Wicomico Hundred, Somerset County, Maryland, John Hitch Sr. is listed in the same household as slave Murrer.

On Nov 16 1745, John Hitch was listed as a creditor to estate of John Price valued at £15.9.3. This same reference also named John Hitch as "next-of- kin" to John and Mary Price. (MdPI-31:339) In the 1746 Tax List for Wicomico Hundred, Somerset County, Maryland, John Hitch is listed in the same household as slaves Taus(?) and Mowyou.

In 1748, John Hitch is listed in Somerset County Court Papers for 1747-1752 on a paper entitled "Alowances Wickacomoco" as follows: "John Hitch Senr" "Elgt Hitch" (SoCP, MdHR 7266-33-41)

In the 1748 Tax List for Wicomico Hundred, Somerset County, Maryland, John Hitch is listed in the same household as Joshua Hitch and slaves Slafow(?) and ______. In the 1749 Tax List for Wicomico Hundred, Somerset County, Maryland, John Hitch Sr. is listed in the same household as Joshua Hitch and negroes Stafford and Moyor. In Mar 1749, George Vinson was appointed overseer of the roads instead of John Hitch for the ensuing year. (SoJ-1747/49:190). In the 1750 Tax List for Wicomico Hundred, Somerset County, Maryland, John Hitch Sr. is listed in the same household as Joshua Hitch, Jno. Hitch and negroes Stafford and Will.

In Jun 1751, the court decided to put Phillis Bready into the custody of John Hitch until she reached age 16. He was to teach her "to read well the bible and to knitt sew and spin and other housewifary. . . give her a suit of cloathes over and above her common wearing cloathes...". (SoJ-1749/51). In the 1751 Tax List for Wicomico Hundred, Somerset County, Maryland, John Hitch Sr. is listed in the same household as James Hitch and 3 negroes. In the 1752 Tax List for Wicomico Hundred, Somerset County, Maryland, John Hitch Sr. is listed in the same household as negroes Moyer, Staford and Hannah.

In the Mar Court of 1753, "William Hitch late of Somerset County", in suit vs. Henry Lowes as he owes him £8.7.6. John Hitch of Som. County stood for him and paid debt. (SoJ-1752/54:40). In the 1753 Tax List for Wicomico Hundred, Somerset County, Maryland, John Hitch Sr. is listed in the same household as James Hitch and negroes Staford, Hanah, Mower.

In the 1754 Tax List for Wicomico Hundred, Somerset County, Maryland, John Hitch Sr. is listed in the same household as Joseph Hitch and negroes Staford, Hannah, Mower, and Sue. Joseph Hitch is crossed out of the record as if entered by mistake. (It could be that he had not quite reached the required age of 16 for being taxable.) In the 1756 Tax List for Wicomico Hundred, Somerset County, Maryland, John Hitch Sr. is listed in the same household as Joseph D. Hitch and negroes Mouer, Staford and Hannee. In the 1757 Tax List for Wicomico Hundred, Somerset County, Maryland, John Hitch Sr. is listed in the same household as negroes Staford, Mowe, Hannah, and Sue.

On Mar 7 1757, William Hitch "son of William Hitch", sold 100 acres of land, part of "High Suffolk" to John Hitch Sr. This was land Thomas Walker was granted and went to his son Thomas Walker and then deeded to Adam Hitch. Adam gave 405 acres to son William Hitch beginning at the SW end of a line of marked trees dividing it from a part of the same tract of land given to son Solomon Hitch and on the west side of a glade that comes by where John Price now lives thence by a line of marked trees S46E 180 poles partly dividing it from land given to son Samuel Hitch, thence by a line of marked trees NE 200 poles dividing it partly from part of the same tract given to son John Hitch thence by a line of marked trees NExN 168 poles to the eastern most bounds of the said tract thence bounded by the out side line of the tract to the eastern side of the land given to Solomon Hitch. Thence SW by a line of marked trees dividing it from Solomon's land 325 poles to the first beginning containing 405 acres. William Hitch divided this equally between sons William, Thomas, Nehemiah and John Hitch by his will. Thomas was deceased before he reached age 21 so his part fell to William. John Hitch Sr. paid 10 shillings for the 100 acres that was originally allotted for Nehemiah Hitch beginning at a marked white oak and running NE 122 poles thence N74E 50 poles to a stake set in the ground. Thence SE 80 poles to a white oak thence SW by a line of marked trees 164 poles to a marked hickory, thence N46W 100 poles and thence with a right line to the beginning - 100 acres. (SoLR-B:161) This is confirmed in the Rent Rolls for the tract called "High Suffolk" (total 1450 acres, yearly rent £1.9.0) - William sold 100 acres to John Hitch. (SoRR-10:336).

On Mar 7 1757, John Hitch, with William Hitch, "planters", sold all that parcel of land in "High Suffolk" where said William now lives. On the north side of the Wicomico River (formerly called the Rockawalkin River) "in neck of land called Rockawalkin." Begin at a marked white oak standing at the SW end of a line of marked trees dividing it from part of said tract given by Adam Hitch to his son Solomon and on the west side of a glade that came by where John Price formerly dwelled thence S46E 81 poles, thence NE 124 poles, thence N74E 50 poles, thence N77E 67 poles, thence NE 135 poles, thence NWxN 66 poles, thence WxN 14 poles to the afsd line of marked trees, thence to the first beginning - 200 acres of the original 1,450 acres of "High Suffolk". This was part of the 405 acres Adam Hitch gave to William Hitch in 1728 which went to sons William, Thomas, John and Nehemiah Hitch. William here became part to half of the 405 acres. John Hitch seems to appear here just to verify that he will not bring future claim to the land. They were paid £157 by George Wilson (SoLR-B:158).

In the 1759 Tax List for Wicomico Hundred, Somerset County, Maryland, John Hitch Sr. is listed in the same household as negroes Mower, Stafford, Hanner, Sue and Gary. On Oct 7 1759, John Hitch received a land patent for 25 acres called "Last Choice." (Somerset County Land Patents Certificates) John Hitch was assigned a warrant of survey by William Polk for 25 acres out of his 185 acres on Oct 3 1759. The survey revealed land described as beginning at a marked red oak on the east side of an old main road from Caldwell's Mill to Spring Hill Chapel on the west side of Caton's Branch, thence SE 135 poles, thence N 84 poles, thence with a right line to the beginning.

On Apr 14 1760, John Hitch received a land patent for 50 acres called "Chance." (Somerset County Land Patents Certificates) John Hitch received a warrant for survey of the land on Apr 19 1756. The land was surveyed May 1 1756 and described as "…back from the head of the Wicomico River between a tract of land belonging to Col. Robert Jenkins Henry and a tract sold by Joshua Caldwell to Richard Waller and on the south side of Caton's Branch…" Thence, beginning at a marked white oak on the north side of the Wicomico River about four miles back in the woods on the south side of Caton's Branch by the side thereof, thence N57W 100 poles, thence S33W 80 poles, thence S57E 100 poles, thence a right line to the beginning containing 50 acres. Improvements listed include 200 "pannels of good fence" and 12 acres of cultivated land.

On Jan 19 1761, Charles Nicholson was found guilty of begetting a bastard child to Sarah Lanck. "John Heatch Senr" acknowledged and gave security along with Elgate Byrd. (SoCP-1761/64, MdHR 7266-54-49)

John Hitch Sr.'s will was written on Sep 9 1762 and probated on Mar 16 1763. It is transcribed and paraphrased as follows: John Hitch of Somerset County "being very sick and weak in body: ·To my son Joshua Hitch plantation where he now lives ·To my son John Hitch plantation he now lives 150 acres in quantity to be taken from the south end of the land Joshua lives on. ·To my son George Hitch plantation I now live, one young mare, one new bed & furniture, one cow & calf, one sow and piggs, one ewe and lamb, iron pot, 2 pewter basons, one dish & ½ dozen pewter plates, 3 flag chairs unless George dies without heirs in which case they are to be divided equally between my children Joshua, John, James, Joseph Hitch, Baty Rencher ·To my daughter Sarah Talbard and son-in-law John Talbard £0.1.0 and nothing else ·To wife Baty Hitch the rest for her widowhood then to the children." Witnesses: Joshua Humphris, Nathan Culver, Stephen Ellis. (SoW-31:883)

In May and Jun of 1763, John Hitch's estate was inventoried at a value of £109.12.8. Appraisers were William Murray and Thomas Humphriss; Creditors were George Handy and James Huston. Next-of kin were listed as Joseph and John Hitch and the Executor was Joshua Hitch. (MdPrI Abstracts-1763/66)

John married Elizabeth (Baty) (?) about 1720 in Somerset Co., MD. Elizabeth was born about 1700 in Somerset Co., MD and died after 1762 in Somerset Co., MD.

Death Notes: Susanna Hardy's will was probated Apr 7 1762 with James Hitch was listed as her next-of-kin suggesting a brother/sister relationship.

+ 33 M iii. Joshua A. HITCH was born on 1 Feb 1729 in Somerset Co., MD and died between 6 Jan 1792 and 28 Apr 1792 in Somerset Co., MD about age 62.

34 M iv. John HITCH was born on 11 Jul 1732 in Somerset Co., MD and died from 1765 to 1766 in Somerset Co., MD at age 33.

Birth Notes: John Hitch's birth date, son of John and Elizabeth Hitch, is written in the Stepney Parish church records, Somerset County.

Death Notes: No will has been found for this John Hitch but he is appointed executor in John Taubert's will written Dec 16 1765 and the invemtory of John Hitch's estate commenrced in Jan 1766.

General Notes: On Jul 11 1732, this John Hitch's birth was recorded in the Stepney Parish church records. In many of the early Somerset County Tax Lists, he was listed as "son of John" to distinguish him from John Hitch Jr., son of William Hitch.

In the 1750 Tax List for Wicomico Hundred, Somerset County, Maryland, John Hitch is listed in the same household as Joshua Hitch, John Hitch Sr. (head of the household) and negroes Stafford and Will. In the 1751 Tax List for Wicomico Hundred, Somerset County, Maryland, John Hitch is listed in the same household as Solomon Hitch and negro Rose. In the 1752 Tax List for Wicomico Hundred, Somerset County, Maryland, John Hitch is listed in a household as the only taxable. In the 1753 Tax List for Wicomico Hundred, Somerset County, Maryland, John Hitch is listed in a household as the only taxable. In the 1754 Tax List for Wicomico Hundred, Somerset County, Maryland, John Hitch is listed in a household as the only taxable.

On Mar 27 1754, William Hitch, with Nehemiah and John Hitch, gave a deed of land to John Hitch (SoLR-B:26). This was land that was originally patented to Capt. Thomas Walker on May 12 1679, and conveyed to his son Thomas (the younger) at death and further conveyed as 1,450 acres called "High Suffolk" to Adam Hitch. On May 6 1728, Adam Hitch conveyed 400 acres of this to his son William Hitch who divided it equally among his four (4) sons, William, Thomas, Nehemiah and John through his will. Thomas died before reaching age 21 so his portion conveyed to William, the eldest son. Goes through metes and bounds of the 405 acre sub-tract again (see elsewhere). For £75, John Hitch bought the part assigned to Nehemiah Hitch as follows: Beginning at a marked white oak NE 124 perches, thence N57E 43 perches, thence SE 80 perches to a marked white oak, thence SW 164 perches to a marked hickory, thence NW 100 perches to the beginning containing 100 acres. The brother John Hitch is also referred to as John Hitch the younger here but he signs John Hitch Jr..

In the 1757 Tax List for Wicomico Hundred, Somerset County, Maryland, John Hitch is listed in a household as the only taxable.

In his father's will, written Sep 9 1762 and probated Mar 16 1763, this John Hitch received 150 acres of lands on "the plantation he now lives". In the will of John Taubert (Talbot), written Dec 16 1765 and probated Jan 16 1766, John Hitch was appointed Executor and indicated as his "bro-in-law" (Maryland Calendar of Wills 1764/67).

John Hitch probably died intestate as there is no will but the inventory of his estate was taken between Jan 1766 and Jan 1767 and valued at £210.9.11. Appraisers were listed as William Venables and George Handy; Creditors were George Handy and Jonathon Chathill; Next-of kin were Thomas Rencher and Joshua Hitch; and Administratrix was Francis Hitch. (MdPrI-91:13) On Nov 11 1767, Frances Hitch is named as administratrix of the estate of John Hitch, deceased, re-valued at £211.12.7½. (MdPrA-58:5)

John married Frances RENCHER?, daughter of Thomas RENCHER and Bridget SHILES.

General Notes: The Rencher surname is given for Frances because John Hitch's inventory names Thomas Rencher as next-of-kin - maybe father-in-law? Additionally, in the will of Thomas Rencher written November 1, 1764 and probated in Somerset County on April 28, 1772 (MdW-38pt2), it mentions Sarah Beard and Frances Hitch, strengthening the case that Thomas Rencher was perhaps father-in-law of John Hitch. On November 11, 1767, Frances Hitch is named as administratrix of the estate of John Hitch, deceased, valued at £211.12.7½ (MdPrA-58:5).

+ 35 M v. James HITCH was born on 23 Jan 1734 in Somerset Co., MD and died about Nov 1782 about age 48.

+ 36 M vi. Joseph D. HITCH was born on 13 Jun 1737 in Somerset Co., MD and died in May 1770 in Somerset Co., MD at age 32.

+ 38 M viii. George HITCH was born from 1745 to 1746 in Somerset Co., MD, died on 28 May 1812 in Fairhaven, Bristol Co., MA at age 66, and was buried about 31 May 1812 in Fairhaven, Bristol Co., MA.

General Notes: On Aug 5 1713, Adam Hitch was listed as a witness (with Thomas Humphries Jr., Thomas Hickman, Thomas Vinson) to will of Lambrook Thomas who had listed son-in-law John Cordrey, daughter Mary Cordrey, granddaughter Mary Cordrey, daughter Rebecca Prise (Price), grandson Crispine Prise, grandson Elick Prise, and granddaughters Ann Prise and Grase Prise. (SoW-EB9:47) Crispin Price's will was probated in Somerset County on April 10 1730 and gave his plantation to "eldest son" Alexander Price. It also mentions children Rachell, Ann, Solomon and Eve Price. His (un-named) wife is listed as executrix. Witnesses were Adam Hitch, Thomas Humphries, Finch Jones and Samuel Hitch. For the estate of Crispin Price inventoried between May 6 1730 and Feb 15 1730/31, Solomon Heatch was listed as creditor. The estate was valued at £86.18.4. (MdPrI Abstracts-1729/34). On Aug 18 1731, John Heatch provided surety against the estate of Chrispin Price. James Smith and Eve his wife (This is John's sister Eve Hitch) were listed as executors (SoJ-1730/33:144).

Eve married Crispin PRICE, son of Alexander PRICE and Rebecca THOMAS. Crispin was born on 5 Nov 1689 in Somerset Co., MD and died between 10 Apr 1730 and 6 May 1730 in Somerset Co., MD about age 40.

General Notes: On Aug 5 1713, Adam Hitch was listed as a witness (with Thomas Humphries Jr., Thomas Hickman, Thomas Vinson) to will of Lambrook Thomas who had listed son-in-law John Cordrey, daughter Mary Cordrey, granddaughter Mary Cordrey, daughter Rebecca Prise (Price), grandson Crispine Prise, grandson Elick Prise, and granddaughters Ann Prise and Grase Prise. (SoW-EB9:47).

Crispin Price's will was probated in Somerset County on April 10 1730 and gave his plantation to "eldest son" Alexander Price. It also mentions children Rachell, Ann, Solomon and Eve Price. His (un-named) wife is listed as executrix. Witnesses were Adam Hitch, Thomas Humphries, Finch Jones and Samuel Hitch.

For the estate of Crispin Price inventoried between May 6 1730 and Feb 15 1730/31, Solomon Heatch was listed as creditor. The estate was valued at £86.18.4. (MdPrI Abstracts, 1729-1734).

On Aug 18 1731, John Heatch provided surety against the estate of Chrispin Price. James Smith and Eve his wife (This is John's sister Eve Hitch) were listed as executors (SoJ-1730/33:144).

39 M i. Alexander (Elix) PRICE was born before 1718 in Somerset Co., MD and died from 1735 to 1736 in Somerset Co., MD.

General Notes: In the Mar Court of 1733/4, Elgate Hitch, "Planter" was chosen as guardian by Alexander Price. Elgate Hitch, Joseph Wailes, and William Langsdale put up £50, £25 & £25 respectively. James Smith was mentioned as Alexander Price's father-in-Law. (SoJ-1733/35:111). In Nov 1736, Solomon Hitch was a "guardian to Solomon Price whose brother Alexander Price chose Elgate Heatch as guardian " and Alexander is now dead. This court ruling transferred the estate of Alexander to Solomon Price under guardianship of Elgate Hitch. (SoJ-1735/37:264).

Birth Notes: Eve Price was listed as under age 14 when she was assigned Elgate Hitch as guardian in 1734.

General Notes: In Aug 1734, Elgate Hitch was appointed guardian to Rachell Price & Eve Price (both under age 14). (Ibid:181/182). Eve Price married Levin Hitch, son of Solomon Hitch before 1748.

Eve married Levin HITCH, son of Solomon HITCH and Rebecca CLARK. Levin was born about 1723 in Somerset Co., MD and died after 1790 in Sussex Co., DE.

Birth Notes: Levin Hitch is listed for the first time on the Somerset County Tax Lists in 1738 suggesting he had reached age 15 near that time. (SoTL-1738)

41 M iii. Solomon PRICE was born after 1720 in Somerset Co., MD and died before 12 Aug 1748.

General Notes: In the Aug court of 1734, Solomon Hitch, planter, was appointed a guardian to Ann Price and Solomon Price who were both under age 14 at the time. (SoJ-1733/35:181). In Nov 1736, Solomon Hitch was a "guardian to Solomon Price whose brother Alexander Price chose Elgate Heatch as guardian " and Alexander is now dead. This court ruling transferred the estate of Alexander to Solomon Price under guardianship of Elgate Hitch. (SoJ-1735/37:264).

+ 43 F v. Rachel PRICE was born after 1720 in Somerset Co., MD and died before 13 Oct 1778 in MD.

Eve next married James SMITH between 10 Apr 1730 and 2 Jan 1731 in Somerset Co., MD.

9. Samuel HITCH was born in Apr 1703 in Somerset Co., MD and died in 1750 in Somerset Co., MD at age 47.

Death Notes: In the 1750 Tax List for Wicomico Hundred, Somerset County, Maryland, Samuel Hitch is listed but with the notation "ded" is written next to his name and he was not counted in the final population tally. This suggests that he died during the actual counting process or a short time earlier. (early 1750)

General Notes: Samuel Hitch was born in Somerset County, MD sometime between 1703 and 1707 and died there in 1750. His birth year is determined through existing evidence obtained from county records. In particular, the court records and Tax Lists were used to estimate the range of years in which he was born. The Somerset County, MD Tax Lists were taken every year in the early-to-mid 1700s and used to determine heads of household and other taxables in the county. A "taxable" was the head of the household, males over the age of 15, and all slaves. The Tax Lists survive mostly intact for the years 1723 through 1759 and, as one follows families during this time frame, it can be surmised many times about when a male turns 16 years of age by when he first appears on the listings. Samuel Hitch first appeared on the Tax List in 1725, which means he had to have been born in 1709 or before. Another key record is a court paper describing Samuel Hitch's apprenticeship to a William Read. This paper is dated Apr 3 1723 (MdHR 7266-1-4) and it asks the court to release Samuel Hitch from his duties as an apprentice so that he can return to his father. Since trade persons usually were apprentices until they reached the age of 21, it might be assumed that Samuel Hitch was age 20 or younger in Apr 1723. This would mean that he was born in 1703 or later - hence the birth year between 1703 and 1707. Besides being on the Tax Lists, Samuel Hitch shows up in the Somerset County Land Records when he received 212 acres of land from his father Adam in May of 1728. The land is described as two tracts called "Come by Chance" and "High Suffolk" located on the north side of the "Wiccocomioco River" (SoLR-SH:25). This area is near present-day Salisbury in Wicomico County, Maryland. Since Adam Hitch gave land to all his sons except Elgate in 1728, it would seem that he reserves the gifts for his son that were "of age" or at least 21. Thence we assume Samuel to have been born at least by 1707.

Other times that Samuel Hitch appears in the historical records follow:

On Apr 3 1723, he made a plea that he was and apprentice to Wm. Read but petitioned to be with his father, ______ (obliterated record) Hitch. (SoCP-1722, MdHR 7266-1-4). In the 1725 Tax List for Wicomico Hundred, Somerset County, Maryland, Samuel Hitch is listed in a household as the only taxable. His household is near that of Adam Hitch Sr. and Jr. in the listing. In the 1727 Tax List for Wicomico Hundred, Somerset County, Maryland, Samuel Hitch is listed in a household as the only taxable. His household is near that of Adam/Elget Hitch, Wm Hitch, and Jno Hitch in the listing.

On May 6 1728, he received a deed of gift for 212 acres of land described as two tracts "High Suffolk" and "Come by Chance" on the north side of the "Wiccocomioco River" from Adam Hitch and "Mary, his wife" (SoLR-SH:23). In the 1728 Tax List for Wicomico Hundred, Somerset County, Maryland, Samuel Hitch is listed in a household as the only taxable. In the 1729 Tax List for Wicomico Hundred, Somerset County, Maryland, Samuel Hitch is listed in a household as the only taxable.

In Aug 1729, he was mentioned in a boundary dispute for land on east side of Rockawalkin Mill branch in Somerset County Deposition by John Caldwell (age 46) states "about sixteen months ago he was employed by Sam'l Heatch to lay out land given him by his father Adam Heatch." Also deposition by John Cordrey (age 48). (SoJ-1727/30:213). On Apr 10 1730, Samuel Hitch is listed as a witness to the will of Crispin Price. (They Lived in Maryland, Somerset County 1726-1750, Liber EB9-132) In the 1730 Tax List for Wicomico Hundred, Somerset County, Maryland, Samuel Hitch is listed in a household with Ambrose Riggin. On Jan 22 1730/31, he received a deed of gift of "one negro boy named Johnna" from Adam Hitch (SoLR-SH:297).

In the 1731 Tax List for Wicomico Hundred, Somerset County, Maryland, Samuel Hitch is listed in a household as the only taxable. In the 1733 Tax List for Wicomico Hundred, Somerset County, Maryland, Samuel Hitch is listed in a household as the only taxable. In the 1734 Tax List for Wicomico Hundred, Somerset County, Maryland, Samuel Hitch is listed in a household with Frank Price. In the 1735 Tax List for Wicomico Hundred, Somerset County, Maryland, Samuel Hitch is listed in a household with John Tatum and slave Jack. In the 1736 Tax List for Wicomico Hundred, Somerset County, Maryland, Samuel Hitch is listed in a household with a slave. In the 1737 Tax List for Wicomico Hundred, Somerset County, Maryland, Samuel Hitch is listed in a household with slave Jack. In the 1738 Tax List for Wicomico Hundred, Somerset County, Maryland, Samuel Hitch is listed in a household with slave Jack. In the 1739 Tax List for Wicomico Hundred, Somerset County, Maryland, Samuel Hitch is listed in a household with slave Jack. In the 1740 Tax List for Wicomico Hundred, Somerset County, Maryland, Samuel Hitch is listed in a household with slave Jack.

In the Nov 1740 court, a case is listed for Francis Tate vs Samuel Hitch, "agreed." This was on the appearance docket. (SoJ-1740/42:55) (Francis Tate was "a prisoner a long time." Ibid:145) In Mar 1740/41, Samuel Hitch was mentioned in the case of His Lordship vs. Negro Jack, the slave of Samuel Hitch "late of Stepney Parish" where on Dec 31 1740 he went to the house of Elgate Hitch "about the eleventh hour and feloniously and burglariously did break and enter with intent to steal the goods and chattles." In the house were Rachell Price and "others of the family." She and Negro Bonny testified for the prosecution. "Jack a negro slave of Samuel Hitch of Somerset County planter, being guilty of running away, and rambling and riding of horses at night . . . Sheriff of the County take the said negro Jack to the publick whiping post, and there give him thirty stripes on the bare back well laid on, untill the Blood appear." (SoJ-1740/42:64/65).

On May 18 1741, Samuel Heatch gave deed for land, along with William and Elgate Heatch, to Isaac Handy. This record mentions William Heatch (Sr.) as "deceased, heir-in-law to Addam Heatch late of Somerset County." (SoLR-MF:226) On Jun 20 1741, Samuel Heatch is mentioned with division of lands with William Stevens (SoLR-MF:227). In the 1743 Tax List for Wicomico Hundred, Somerset County, Maryland, Samuel Hitch is listed in a household with negro Jack. In the 1744 Tax List for Wicomico Hundred, Somerset County, Maryland, Samuel Hitch is listed in a household with Francis Prise and negro Jack. In the 1745 Tax List for Wicomico Hundred, Somerset County, Maryland, Samuel Hitch is listed in a household with negro Jack. In the 1746 Tax List for Wicomico Hundred, Somerset County, Maryland, Samuel Hitch is listed in a household with negro Jack. In the 1747 Tax List for Wicomico Hundred, Somerset County, Maryland, Samuel Hitch is listed in a household with negro Jack.

In 1747, Samuel Hitch is listed on a "A List of Claimes for Wicomico Hundred" as: §Samll Hitch £0.20.40 §John Hitch Jr. £0.5.10. (SoCP (loose papers)-1747/51, MdHR 7266-32-10).

In the 1748 Tax List for Wicomico Hundred, Somerset County, Maryland, Samuel Hitch is listed in a household with Robert Hitch and negro Robin. In 1748, Samuel Hitch is listed on a "A List of Allowances (Claimes) Somerset County 1748 in Wiccocomoco & Nanticoke Hundreds", he is entered as: "Saml Hitch 17 - - - 26½" (SoCP-1747/52, MdHR 7266-33-39) In the 1749 Tax List for Wicomico Hundred, Somerset County, Maryland, Samuel Hitch is listed in a household with Robert Hitch and negro Park (Jack?). In the 1750 Tax List for Wicomico Hundred, Somerset County, Maryland, Samuel Hitch is listed in a household with Robt Hitch and negro Jack. This record is very interesting in that the notation "ded" is written next to Samuel's name and he was not counted in the final population tally. It might be assumed that he died during the actual counting process through the district or soon before that time (early 1750).

When John Hardy's account of his estate was completed on Jul 7 1750, it lists payment to Samuel Hitch. It also lists orphans Joseph, Benjamin and Phillis Hardy. (MdPrA-28:212) On Mar 22 1750/51, Samuel Hitch appears in the records as "Samuel Hitch his administration bond in common form by Rachel Hitch his administratrix with Elgitt Hitch &c Thomas Stanford of Somerset County for sureties in sum of 400 pounds sterling." (MdTP-34:125).

Samuel Hitch evidently died intestate as no will has been found. However, his estate was inventoried between Apr 11 1751 and Jun 20 1751 at a value of £125.1.7. Appraisers were Isaac Handy and Thomas Records; Creditors were Thomas Gilliss and Henry Lowes; Next-of kin listed were Elgt Hitch and Jonathon Hitch with Adminstratrix/Executrix Rachel Hitch. Inventory for "Samuel Hitch, Deceased:

One year old horse and mare 12.10.0; Old ass 5.0.0; One cow and calf/4 cows & yearlings 11.0.0; Two 2-year old heifers 1.13.4; One sow and 3 shoals of half worn wrought iron 3.8.8, One Iron, old iron pots 0.10.11, 14 of middling pewter and 9 of very old 1.8.6; 3 reap hooks and 2 old cow bells 0.9.0; One box iron & one Heaser of 1 small trunk 0.8.4; One stone mugg, one small earthen mug 0.2.10; One stone Jugg, 2 butter pots 0.6.0; One fiddle, 1 small wafer box 0.10.4; 2 old knives and forks, 1 grid iron, 1 frying pan 0.8.0; One old fire tongs, one iron hook to hang meat on 0.3.0; One Testament and Book called Christian Monitor 0.3.0; One small Do, 16 of old iron 0.4.6; One large washing tub, Pail Piggen and Strainer 0.4.0; One pair cotton cords, one comb 0.3.10; 5½ of Thread, agum 0.15.1; one pair Spoon moulds, one Razor 0.5.0; One old Horse Team, one pair sheep shears 0.3.0; One gun, one old gun 1.12.6; ½ of 1 pound of pepper, parcel of old Joyners & Carpenter tools 0.18.6; One iron kettle, one small iron skillet 0.5.1; One old Spinnin Wheel, again 0.3.0; One Cafe and 12 bottles, 2 cross leg tables 1.3.0; One old chest, 2 weeding hoes 0.11.0; One old crosscut saw, 6 old chairs 0.7.0; 3 old casks and 4 basketts 0.6.0; 2½ of wool, 1 bushel of Flax seed 0.5.10; 1 Bed and Bolsor, 1 Do 3.9.2; 1 Do 1.14.0; 1 Rugg, 2 Blanketts, one Quilt 1.9.0; 48 of dryed beef, 11 of Tallon 0.17.6; 132 of Bacon 2.4.0; 1 Negro Man called Jack aged 32 years 45.0.0; 3 bushels of wheat, 3 pecks of salt 0.16.6; 1 Ewe, some upper leather and sole leather 0.9.0; 1 Olde Mans Saddle & Bridle 0.10.0; 2 small Hydes 0.10.0; 173¼ bushels corn 17.6.6; 150 Ten Penny nails 0.1.6; 75 feet of pine plank, 5/hundred 0.3.9; One pair of Hames & Traces 0.1.6; 3 of old iron, one old Claw Hammer 0.1.9; ½ bushel of Rye 0.1.0; Debts due to Samuel Hitches Estate 4.17.2; ------------ 125.1.7; Jun 20 1751 came Rachel Hitch and made oath." (MdPrI-46:95).

Other interesting notes come from A Hitch Orchard compiled by Daisy Hitch Davies in 1931: "Samuel Hitch died before his wife. His son Samuel was about nine years old at the time. This boy may have been bound at to trade as was the custom at this time. In 1762 or 1763 when about 21 years of age and old enough to be his own master, he went from Maryland to Massachusetts with his brother Elgate and his first cousin, George Hitch, whose father had died that same year, 1763. Robert Hitch seems to have been the oldest son of Samuel and to have inherited the estate of his father. He died in 1768 while his younger brother Samuel lived until 1825 and was but 13 years older than Robert's oldest son Isaac. This is not unusual in large families."

Samuel married Rachel HARDY, daughter of James HARDY Sr. and Unknown. Rachel was born about 1710 in Somerset Co., MD and died between 10 Dec 1771 and 17 Aug 1773 in Somerset Co., MD about age 61.

Death Notes: Rachel Hitch wrote her will on Dec 10 1771 and it was probated Aug 17 1773. (MdPrW-39:380, also SoWorig).

General Notes: From A Hitch Orchard compiled by Daisy Hitch Davies in 1931:

"(Daisy Hitch's) Reasons for believing Samuel Hitch's wife was Rachel Hardy: A James Hardy Sr., son of Robert Hardy, made his will 1722-1727 at about the same time as Adam Hitch Sr. made his will. This indicates that James Hardy Sr. and Adam Hitch Sr. were of the same generation and their children would be likewise. Said James Hardy Sr. mentions his daughter Rachel in his will. From inventory of estate of Samuel Hitch, we know his wife was named Rachel. Also, Samuel Hitch after going to Massachusetts, where he married, names one of his sons Hardy Elgate. This indicated that he was a son of Samuel Hitch and named his son for his mother Rachel Hardy and grandmother Ann Elgate. Possibly also for his brother Elgate, who went to Massachusetts with him. Another proof is that Benjamin Hardy Hitch of Falmouth, KY., who also descends from Samuel Hitch and Rachel (Hardy) Hitch through son, Benjamin Hitch, has the same family name. Excerpt of letter from Benjamin Hardy Hitch dated Jan 31 1899: 'My middle name is a family name too (Hardy), but I don't know anything of any of the Hardy's. I think it was my great grandmother's maiden name.' Not by compiler - It was his great-great-grandmother's maiden name. Rachel seems to have named several of her children for her Hardy relatives. 'Robert' for her brother and grandfather. "Benjamin" for her brother. She has two grandchildren named 'Joseph' and 'Phillis'. A study of the Hardy wills will give proof of this." [*Note: this "proof" is rather circumstantial and weak.]

On Mar 22 1750/51, Rachel Hitch is mentioned relative to the estate of Samuel Hitch as follows: "Samuel Hitch his administration bond in common form by Rachel Hitch his administratrix with Elgitt Hitch &c Thomas Stanford of Somerset County for sureties in sum of 400 pounds sterling." (MdTP-34:125).

In the 1753 Tax List for Wicomico Hundred, Somerset County, Maryland, Ratchell Hitch is listed in a household with negro Jack. In the 1754 Tax List for Wicomico Hundred, Somerset County, Maryland, Ratchel Hitch is listed in a household with Adam Hitch and negro Jack. In the 1756 Tax List for Wicomico Hundred, Somerset County, Maryland, Rachall Hitch is listed in a household with Benjamin Hitch and negro Jack. In the 1757 Tax List for Wicomico Hundred, Somerset County, Maryland, Rachell Hitch is listed in a household with Benjamin Hitch and negro Jack.

In 1767, Rachel Hitch held an account in John Nelms' store in Salisbury, Maryland. She bought oil which was delivered by William Bell for £0/3/0. She paid her debt in corn delivered by her negro, Jack, and by Stephen Lank.

Rachel Hitch wrote her will on Dec 10 1771 and it was probated on Aug 17 1773 as: Rachel Hitch of "Summerset" County: ·To her daughter Leah Hitch, "my best bed and furniture, yearlin' horse, puter dish, 3 plates, 1 bason. ·To son Elgate Hitch, "one cow and yearlin and one woke of oxens, one puter dish, 3 plates and one bason. ·Give my negro man Jack to daughter Leah" (Note - she ended up splitting him with Elgate). (MdPrW-39:380, also SoWorig).

Her estate was inventoried between Feb 27 1773 and Nov 30 1773 and was valued at £43.12.5. Appraisers were Atkadozi Johnson and Thomas Stanford; Creditors were Charles Hayman and Ann Hayman; Next-of kin were listed as Leah Hitch and Richard Nicholson and the Administrator/Executor was Benjamin Hitch. (MdPrI Abstracts-1772/74). On Aug 17 1773, the records state: "Rachl Hitch her will of Administration Bond by Benj Hitch his administration will annexed with Charles Hayman of Duncan Maine his sureties in the sum of £100 sterlg dated 17th Aug 1773." (MdTP-45:182). On Dec 31 1773, the records state: Returns from Somerset County on "Rachell Hitch, her invent." (MdTP-45:233). On Sep 7 1774, Benjamin Hitch did account and administer the will of Rachel Hitch deceased, £43.18.0. Mentions, "of money paid by this accountant to Elgit Hitch which was due him from the Deceased out of his Fathers Estate. . ., £9.3.2" Again to Leah Hitch, £1.4.3 (MdPrA-71:201). Also mentions payments made to wife of William Lank. (MdPrA-71:213)

General Notes: In the "Store Accounts of John Nelms of Salisbury, 1758-1787" (John Jacob, Jr.), "Miss Leah Hitch" bought one yard of ribbon for £0/1/6 with sister Eve Harris as security. Cash paid in full by William Lank in 1768.

Leah Hitch was mentioned in the will of Rachel Hitch of "Summerset" County written on December 10, 1771 and August 17, 1773 as follows: To her daughter Leah Hitch, "my best bed and furniture, yearlin' horse, puter dish, 3 plates, 1 bason." To son Elgate Hitch, "one cowand yearlin and one woke of oxens, one puter dish, 3 plates and one bason." "Give my negro man Jack to daughter Leah" (Note - she ended up splitting him with Elgate). (Maryland Prerogative Court Wills, Liber 39, Folio 380)

+ 45 M ii. Robert HITCH was born about 1733 in Somerset Co., MD and died between 9 Oct 1767 and 24 Mar 1768 in Somerset Co., MD about age 34.

47 M iv. Adam HITCH was born in 1736 in Somerset Co., MD and died about 1755 in Somerset Co., MD about age 19.

General Notes: In the 1752 Tax List for Wicomico Hundred, Somerset County, Maryland, Adam Hitch is listed in a household with Robert Hitch (head of household) and negro Jack.

In the 1754 Tax List for Wicomico Hundred, Somerset County, Maryland, Adam Hitch is listed in a household with Ratchell Hitch (head of household) and negro Jack.

There are no more records of this Adam hitch after 1754.

+ 48 M v. Benjamin HITCH was born between 1738 and 1740 in Somerset Co., MD and died between 31 Mar 1814 and 19 Apr 1814 in Worcester Co., MD about age 75.

+ 49 M vi. Capt. Samuel HITCH was born from 1740 to 1741 in Somerset Co., MD and died on 12 Mar 1825 in Fairhaven, Bristol Co., MA at age 84.

50 M vii. Joseph* HITCH was born about 1745 in Somerset Co., MD and died about 1772 in Somerset Co., MD about age 27.

General Notes: *This connection is UNCERTAIN. A Joseph Hitch Sr. and Joseph Hitch Jr. were mentioned in the will of Robert Hitch written October 1767. Joseph Hitch Sr. probably refers to the son of John Hitch of Adam. Joseph Hitch Jr. may have been a brother of Robert, hence this placement. Regardless, this Joseph Hitch is only mentioned twice in the records of Maryland after that point where he was a witness to the will of Thomas Humphries (2/19/1771) and William Stephens (12/18/1769-3/21/1771). This Joseph may have died soon after 1771 and is an uncertain son of Samuel Hitch.

+ 51 M viii. Elgate HITCH was born in 1751 in Somerset Co., MD and died about 10 Oct 1838 in Fairhaven, Bristol Co., MA about age 87.

10. Elgate HITCH was born between Jul 1712 and Jun 1713 in Somerset Co., MD and died between 19 Mar 1772 and 9 Feb 1773 in Somerset Co., MD about age 59.

Birth Notes: Elgate Hitch was a deponent for a case involving Rachel Caldwell versus James Caldwell when he made a deposition indicating that he was age 38 on Jun 27 1751 (making his birth date in the year 1712 or 1713). Note that the court records states his name as Elijah Hitch but he clearly signed the record "Elgt Hitch". The "Elijah" was probably a mistake of the ancient transcriber. (MdCC- 9-BT1:73).

Death Notes: Elgate Hitch's will was written Mar 19 1772 and probated Feb 9 1773. (SoW-1750/72:172/173; also SoWorig-B11:F34)

General Notes: From A Hitch Orchard compiled by Daisy Hitch Davies, 1931: "The name 'Elgate' is spelled in various ways, Elgate, Elgit, Elget, Elgatt, etc. It was a surname and the compiler is inclined to think a corruption of the 'Felgate' name of early Virginia. It was the maiden name of the mother of Elgate Hitch. This name carries on in the family."

Elgate Hitch, son of Adam Hitch appears in the records as follows:

He first appears in the 1727 Tax List of Somerset County, MD in Wicomico Hundred in the same household as Adam Hitch, Isaac Highway, 3 negroes. Also next to households of Wm Hitch, Saml Hitch, and Jno Hitch. He is listed in the 1728 Tax List in Wicomico Hundred in same household as Adam Hitch, Jacob Crouch, negroes Tobe, Hannah, Donnuda. On Jan 16 1730/31, Elgate Heatch received a deed of gift of "one negro woman called Conounder" from his father Adam Heatch (SoLR-SH:296). He is listed in the 1730 Tax List in Wicomico Hundred in same household as Adam Heatch and slaves Toby, Frank, Hanna, Mow, and Cannador. Elgate Hitch is listed in the 1731 Tax List with slaves Toby and Cunnoodah.

In the Mar Court of 1732/33 for Somerset County, Elgate Hitch is discharged of security for which he was bound. (SoJ-1730/33:282). In the 1733 Tax List for Wicomico Hundred, Elgett Hitch is listed with slaves Canowndow and Hannow. In 1734, Elgate Hitch is listed in a household in Wicomico Hundred with Elix. Price and slaves Canuna and Hannah. In the Mar Court of 1733/4, he is listed as a "Planter" and Alexander Price chose him as guardian. He, Joseph Wailes, and William Langsdale put up £50, £25 & £25 respectively. James Smith was mentioned as Alexander Price's father-in-Law. (SoJ-1733/35:111). Also, in Aug 1734, he was appointed guardian to Rachell Price & Eve Price (both under age 14). (Ibid:181/182). In Nov 1734, he was appointed Constable of "Wickocomoco Hundred" for the ensuing year "instead of Timothy Adkinson." (Ibid.:213).

On May 1 1735, regarding the case John Handy versus Elgate Hitch, et uxor: "Elgate Hitch late of Som. County planter and Betty his wife lately called Betty Handy of the same county widdow... executrix of the testament and last will of Ebenezer Handy." John Handy contested and won £21.0.5, plus 337 lbs of tobacco as court costs. (SoJ-1737/38:11, [From 3/1736 Court]). In the 1735 Tax List, Elgate Hitch is living in Wicomico Hundred and listed in a household with Archibald Smith, James Berrey and slaves Conounder and Hannah. In Nov 1735, Elgate was again appointed Constable of Wicomico Hundred for the ensuing year. (SoJ-1735/37:87). In the 1736 Tax List, Elgate Heatch was listed in Wicomico Hundred with Wm Bird, Samll _ent_ace and 3 slaves.

In Nov 1736, he petitioned to the court for his negro "Hannah so disabled in her limbs and age together that she can scarcely walk." She was ruled free of taxes from that time on. (Ibid:262). Also, in Nov, he was replaced by Thomas Winder as Constable of Wicomico Hundred for ensuing year. (Ibid:264). The court records also then show that Solomon Hitch was "guardian to Solomon Price whose brother Alexander Price chose Elgate Heatch as guardian " and Alexander is now dead. The court transferred the estate of Alexander Price to Solomon Price under guardianship of Elgate Hitch. (Ibid:264). In 1737, he was listed as debtor to estate of Mathias Gale (for "corn").

In the 1737 Tax List, Elgit Hitch is listed in Wicomico Hundred with slaves Camnundah, Bonney, and Amey. In the 1738 Tax List, Elgate Hitch is listed in Wicomico Hundred with Joseph Piper and 2 slave women. In the 1739 Tax List, Elgtt Heatch is listed as head of household with Thomas and Alexander Prise and slaves Bony and Conuda. In Jun 1739, Elgate Hitch and George Vinson were witnesses in case James Collett vs. Hugh Caldwell for owing "36 bushels of Indian corn." (SoJ-1738/40:142). In the 1740 Tax List, Elgatt Hitch is listed as head of household 1758 with slaves Bonny, Connundo, and Amey. In Jun 17 1740, in the case of His Lordship versus Elgate Hitch, Robert Caldwell & Wen Coda. Said Elgate Hitch, planter, with the others did "assemble and beat wound and Evilly treat" Matthew Doorman. They pleaded innocent but were forced to pay fines of £0.2.6 each (Ibid:300/302). In the Nov 1740 Court, Elgate Hitch, "...planter, appointed Constable of Wickacomoco Hundred for ensuing year." He took the oath of that office in Dec 1740. (SoJ-1740/42:32,90)

In Mar 1740/41, he was mentioned in the case of His Lordship vs. Negro Jack, the slave of Samuel Hitch (spelled Hit) "late of Stepney Parish" where on Dec 31 1740 he went to the house of Elgate Hitch "about the eleventh hour and feloniously and burglariously did break and enter with intent to steal the goods and chattles." In the house were Rachell Price and "others of the family." She and Negro Bonny testified for the prosecution. (Ibid:64/65). Also in the Mar 1740/41 court it was reported that Elgate Hitch took the oath of Constable in Dec 1740. (Ibid:90) In the Somerset County Rent Rolls, he was listed for a tract called "Maiden Choice" (total 100a, yr. rent £0.4.0) surveyed Sep 9 1717 at North side of a branch called Warrington branch which makes out of Nassawango Creek. Elgate bought 100 acres from Dingley Gray on Feb 19 1741. (SoRR-10:309) Elgate Hitch was appointed Constable of "Wiccocomico Hundred" for the ensuing year in Nov 1741. (SoJ-1740/42:179) In the Somerset County Tax List for 1743, Elg't Hitch is listed in Wicomico Hundred in the same household as Wm. Farlo:? and 3 slaves. In the Somerset County Tax List for 1744, Elg't Hitch is listed in Wicomico Hundred in the same household with Nohomiah (sic) Hitch and 2 negroes. In the Somerset County Tax List for 1745, Elg't Hitch is listed in Wicomico Hundred in the same household as John _____ and Hugh _____ and 2 negroes.

On Jan 3 1746/47, "Elgat Hitch of Somerset County, planter" sold 100 acres of land in "High Suffolk" "taken out of the land" given to him by his deceased father, Adam Hitch in his will, for £60 to John Crouch (Jr.) Beginning at a marked white oak standing in a glade and about 3 yards from a post that is a corner post bounder of land belonging to Francis Lancake, thence S35W 92 poles, thence S12E 196 poles, thence E 70 poles, thence N12W 270 poles to the first bounder containing 100 acres (SoLR-X:230). In the Somerset County Tax List for 1746, Elgott Hitch is listed in Wicomico Hundred in the same household as Addam Priste? and John Tolbut and negroes Connoundor and Bonney. In the Somerset County Tax List for 1747, Elget Hitch is listed in Wicomico Hundred in the same household as 2 negroes.

In the Mar 1747/48 court, Elgate is mentioned in case His Lordship versus Solomon Hitch where Solomon was charged with "begetting a bastard child on the body of Charity Porter" both of Stepney Parish. "...(Solomon) did commit fornication with a certain Charity Porter." Solomon was fined 30 shillings which Elgate Hitch helped to post. (SoJ-1747/49:49). On May 8 1747, "Elgtt Heatch" signed as witness to note of Joseph Ennalls from John & Thomas Price. (SoCP (loose papers)) He was also listed on a paper entitled "Alowances Wickacomoco" as "Elgt Hitch" along with John Hitch Sr. Finally, Elgate was on "A List of Constables in Somerset County" where he is listed as "Elgat Hitch Constable of Wecomico Hundred - not appear".

On Jun 21 1748, Thomas Price, Elgate Hitch and Christopher Piper confessed judgment to Joseph Ennalls for the sum of £10.19.0 plus 238 pounds of tobacco. (SoCP) And in Nov 1748, Elgate was listed in two entries in rough minutes of the court as "Elgat Hitch for his Negro Woman to be tax free - granted" and "Elgate Hitch Constable of Wickacomoco Hundred for ensuing year". (Ibid.) The latter entry is indicated in the actual judicial records as Elgate petitioned to make "Negro woman Bonne who is so very old past doing any service to the petitioner..." tax free. His petition was granted. (SoJ-1747/49:147) In the Somerset County Tax List for 1748, Elgate Hitch is listed in Wicomico Hundred in the same household with negroes Conunordor and Will.

In 1749, "Thomas Toadvine, Abraham Heath, Elias Baley & Elgit Hitch confessed judgment to George Gale, £9.5.3 plus 292 pounds of tobacco. (SoCP) Later that same year, Elgate Hitch was a witness to the will of William Evans where the Nanticoke River was mentioned (SoW:38,39). He was also listed as, "Elgat Hitch Constable of Wecomico Hundred ret. his List of Taxables". (SoCP-1747/52, MdHR 7266-34-8) In the 1749 Tax List for Somerset County, Elgate Hitch is listed in Wicomico Hundred as in the same household as John Bostuh? and negro Connondor. On Jun 21 1749, he was the appraiser to the estate of William Bready (Brady) valued at £119.15.9. (MdPrI Abstracts-1748/51) In Nov 1749, he was appointed Constable of Wicomico Hundred for the ensuing year. (SoJ-1749/51:42) In the same record, he was listed as a "Gentleman" who took a deposition from John Tatum (age 55) in Archibald Smith case. (Ibid:39)

In William Evans' will written on Feb 18 1749 and probated Jan 27 1750, Elgate Hitch was a witness. The Nanticoke River was mentioned in these records. (SoW-1748/49:38,39). In the 1750 Tax List for Somerset County, Elgett Hitch is listed in Wicomico Hundred as in the same household as Sam'l Doyle and negroes Will and Connondor. He is also compiler of the list that year. In the Nov Court of 1750, the records states, "Elgat Hitch of Somerset County is appointed as Constable of Wecomoco hundred for the ensuing year" (SoJ:1749/51). On Mar 22 1750/51, the following record was before the courts: "Samuel Hitch his administration bond in common form by Rachel Hitch his administratrix with Elgitt Hitch &c Thomas Stanford of Somerset County for sureties in sum of 400 pounds sterling" (MdTP-34:125).

On Jun 27 1751, Elgate Hitch was a deponent in the case of Caldwell vs. Caldwell. It states that "Elijah* Hitch of Somerset County, Gentleman, aged Thirty Eight years or Thereabouts. . ." was ". . .at the house of Robert Gidds commonly known by the name of the Sign of the Crown and Thistle. . ." on Tuesday, Jun 27 1751 in Princess Anne Town. *Note, the court transcriber writes "Elijah" however, the deposition was definitely signed "Elgt" Hitch. This record undoubtedly refers to Elgate Hitch and places his birth year at 1712 or 1713 (MdCC-9, BT1:73). In the 1751 Tax List for Somerset County, Elgett Hitch is listed in Wicomico Hundred as in the same household as negroes Will and Cannuda. On Mar 3 1752, Elgate Hitch is listed as appraiser of estate of Daniel Stoot valued at £79.3.0. (MdPrI Abstracts-1751/56)

The Somerset County Tax List for 1752 was compiled by Elgate Hitch and he was listed therein in Wicomico Hundred in the same household as Samuel McCall and negroes Will and Canoundy. On Nov 23 1752, he was mentioned with Thomas Standford and "Zakerriah" Read as bound to orphans of Obediah Read for the amount of £159.12.2. He was also appointed Constable for Wicomico Hundred for the ensuing year. (SoJ-1752/54:20,22). The Somerset County Tax List for 1753 was compiled by Elgate Hitch and he was listed therein in Wicomico Hundred in the same household as negroes Conoundo and Will.

On Sep 15 1753, Elgate Hitch, Benjamin Venables, Thomas Bird, Ann Hall, Rebecca Evans and Moses Driskill gave deed of land to Jonathon Stock (SoLR-B:17). This records mentions William Elgate who received the land via Dec 16 1681 patent for 25 acres of land called "Supply" on the north side of Rokewakin River back in the woods beginning at a corner tree of land formerly surveyed for William Keens thence NW 20 perches, thence SW 200 perches, thence SE 20 perches, thence line to the beginning. Another tract granted to William Elgate called "Blackwater" on the north side of Rokewalkin being a point of marsh between Keens Creek and Elgate's Creek bounded beginning at a white oak on the western most side of Elgate's Creek beginning at a corner tree dividing between the land formerly surveyed for the said Elgate and a tract surveyed for Robert Handy thence ExN 115 perches to the side of Keen's Creek near the mouth, thence bounded down the westernmost side of that creek to the mouth and the southernmost bound from the mouth of the creek down the river side to the mouth of Elgate's Creek, thence bounded by this creek from the mouth to the first bounder containing 25 acres. Another tract granted to William Elgate called "Dear Lott" beginning at a marked white oak standing on the easternmost side of Keen's Creek being a corner tree of a tract formerly surveyed for William Keens, thence WxS down the said river 125 perches to a marked white oak standing on the westernmost side of a small creek being a corner tree for a tract formerly surveyed for Robert Handy, thence N up a line of marked trees dividing it from the land of Robert Handy 160 perches to a marked Spanish oak standing on the edge of a branch being a corner tree dividing it from the afsd Handy's, thence SWxW 77 perches to a marked pine being a corner tree dividing it from the land of the said Handy, thence N½ ptE 125 perches to a marked red oak standing in a line of marked trees dividing it from the land of William Keene, thence a line to the first bound containing 96 acres. Another tract called "What You Please" on the Wicomico River, northernmost side begin at a marked white oak standing by Micheller's Branch near its mouth on the said river. Thence a straight line 150 perches to the mouth of Keen's Branch, thence NW Westerly 320 perches, SW 150 perches and for length with a line for Alexander Micheller, thence running down the said line to the first bounder conating 300 acres. All this tract minus 25 acres conveyed by Benjamin Venables to John Handy and 50 acres to John Goxling.

According to the Somerset County Rent Rolls, this was for a tract called "Dear Lott" (total 160 acres, yearly rent £0.6.4¾) surveyed 11 Sep 1701 "lying back in ye woods in the Peqriorson". Elgate Hitch, et al, sold 96 acres to Jonathon Stott. (SoRR-9:205) In the 1754 Tax List, Elgate Hitch is listed in Wicomico Hundred in the same household as negroes Conoundo and Will. He was also compiler for that year.

In Nov 1754, Elgate Hitch was involved in yet another court records in the case of George Gale vs. Richard Waller, Jos Callaway, and Elgat Hitch over the sum of £30. (SoJ-1754/57:10) In 1755, Elgate Hitch, with Thomas Dashiell, received a Bill of Sale from Samuel McCaul who was paid £5 for "one gun and ½ crown bill" (SoLR-B:98). On Mar 3 1755, a case was entered in the court for Elgat Hitch versus Joseph Callaway and George Bennet over the sum of £13.8.0. It was ordered that Elgate to recover the money. (SoJ-1754/57:150) In May/Jun 1755, Elgate was listed as the appraiser of the estate of Joseph Humphris valued at £694.5.6 (MdPrI Abstracts-1751/56). On Aug 30 1755, the case Elget Hitch versus Aaron Spears was entered over the sum of £10. It was ordered that Elgate recover the money. (SoJ-1754/57:187) and, in Nov 1755, he was appointed Constable of "Wacomoco" hundred. (Ibid:139).

On Feb 11 1756, Elgate, with George Baily, received a Bill of Sale for "negro boy named Simon" for which they paid £10 to Abraham Hath (SoLR-B:113). In the Aug 1756 court, John Barrett was bound as an apprentice to Elgat Hitch until he is reaches age 21. Elgate Hitch, Day Scott, Joshua Hitch of Som. County "Gentlemen" gave security of £30. (SoJ-1754/57:202). In the same court, Benjamin Venables, William Venables, Elget Hitch and Benjamin Bird confessed judgment to Christopher Piper, administrator of estate of George Parris for the sum of £100 and 314 lbs. of tobacco. (Ibid:216)

The Somerset County Tax List for 1756 was compiled by Elgate Hitch, constable, and he was listed therein in Wicomico Hundred in the same household as negroes Conader and Will. On Nov 1756, he was appointed Constable of "Wecomoco" hundred. (Ibid.:221) In Jun/Nov 1757, Elgate Hitch was listed as next-of-kin along with William Byrd in estate of Thomas Bird valued at £276.4.0 (MdPrI Abstracts-1755/60). The Somerset County Tax List for 1757 was compiled by Elget Hitch, constable, and he was listed therein in Wicomico Hundred in the same household as negroes Will and Conunder.

In 1759, the court presented "A List of the Caridges of Pleasure in Wicomoco Hundred taken in by Elgate Hitch Constable in the year 1759 ----- The Reverend Allexander Adams 1: Two wheel Chair; Capt William Winder 1: Two wheel Chair; Capt Henry Lowes To 1: Ditto; William Allen To 1: Ditto; Thomas Holbrook To 1: Ditto; Sarah Handy To 1: Ditto" (SoCP-1761/64, MdHR 7266-54-41). In Apr 1759, Elgate Hitch was listed as a creditor with John Burk to the estate of Moses Callaway valued at £81.13.2 (MdPrI Abstracts-1755/60).

The Somerset County Tax List for 1759 was compiled by Elgt Hitch, constable, and he was listed therein in Wicomico Hundred in the same household as negroes Grace and Rose. On Dec 10 1759, the court recorded "Elgate Hitch witness to Sarah Lank Charles Nickols father"(?). (SoCP-1761/64, MdHR 7266-54-56) In 1762, Elgate issued a deed for land to Christopher Mathias. (SoLR-E:341) This is confirmed in the Rent Rolls for Aug 2 1762 where he is listed as owner of a tract called "Maiden Choice" (total 100a, yr. rent £0.4.0) surveyed Sept 9 1717 at N side of a branch called Warrington branch which makes out of Nassawango Creek. He sold 100 acres to Matthias Christopher. (SoRR-10:309). On Sep 20 1762, he was listed as an appraiser with George Handy of the estate of Mary Collins valued at £38.12.8 (MdPrI Abstracts-1760/63) Also, on Jan 26 1763, he was again listed as an appraiser, this time with Thomas Humphris, for the estate of John Stabelford valued at £64.2.3 (MdPrI Abstracts-1763/66) In 1769, Elgate Hitch granted "to my beloved grandson William Elgate Hitch, son of my son Joshua" one negro called Bett, age 8 and one negro boy called Eli, age 4. (SoLR-D:264)

In his will written on Mar 19 1772 and probated Feb 9 1773, he leaves ·To wife, Rachel, all the houses wherein I now live with the liberty of my garden during her natural life and 1/3 of my moveable estate. ·To grandson, William Elgate Hitch when age 21, all lands eastward of a line beginning at a marked crooked white oak which is northwest bounder of William Handy's lands that his father gave him and standing near the county road and thence to a "black oke" which we usually work under near the west end of the house that I built for son Joshua to live in and thence to a marked white oak standing by the road near the wading place and thence a north line till it intersects the land my son Joshua bought of William Lank and if he dies without issue this to go to son Robert Hitch. ·To Robert Hitch to use these lands until William Elgate Hitch is age 21 ·To Robert Hitch all other lands to the westward of the afsd line ·To Robert Hitch all my personal estate ·To William Elgate Hitch and 3 year old mare and heifer when he is age 21 ·To granddaughters Mary and Elizabeth one 3 year old heifer when they reach age 16 or "gits married" Witnesses were Stephen Garland, Joshua Byrd, Thomas Byrd (SoW-1750/72:172,173; also SoWorig-B11-F34).

On the date Feb 9 1773, the Maryland Prerogative Court Testamentary Proceedings (original manuscript) state, "Elgate Hitch his will & Testamentary Bond by Robt Hitch his exec with Thos Byrd his sureties in the sum of £400 sterlg dated 9th Feb 1773." (MdTP-45:633) Elgate Hitch's estate was inventoried between Feb 19 1773 and Apr 12 1774 at a value of £326.13.9. Appraisers were Esme Bayly and Thomas Stanford; Creditors were James Bounds and George Handy; Next-of kin were Joshua Hitch and Thomas Byrd with Adm/Exec as Robert Hitch. (MdPrI-115:297)

Elgate married Elizabeth (Betty) M. CALDWELL, daughter of John CALDWELL and Unknown, before May 1735 in Somerset Co., MD. Elizabeth died between 1759 and 1761 in Somerset Co., MD.

+ 52 M i. Capt. Robert HITCH was born before 1739 in Somerset Co., MD and died between 6 Dec 1781 and 25 Nov 1783 in Somerset Co., MD.

+ 53 M ii. Joshua HITCH was born between 1740 and 1742 in Somerset Co., MD and died between 14 Mar 1768 and 19 Sep 1771 in Somerset Co., MD about age 27.

General Notes: Rachel is widow of Francis Langkake. Francis Langkake's will was written on March 2, 1754 and it was probated in Somerset County on January 23, 1759. His wife Rachel was Administratrix (Somerset County Wills, Liber 30, Folio 637). By the time the Account was completed of Mr. Langkake's estate on August 25, 1761, wife Rachel had remarried as she as referred to as Rachel Hitch "alias Lank". Son Francis Langkake was the other administrator (Somerset County Accounts, Liber 47, Folio 142). By eliminating all other Hitches who may have been candidates to marry with Rachel Langkake/Lank, we arrive at Elgate as the best possibility. Elgate mentions his wife Rachel in his will of 1772/1773. Therefore, it is believed that Elgate Hitch married the widow of Francis Langkake sometime between January 1759 and August 1761.

11. Catherine HITCH was born about 1714 in Somerset Co., MD and died between 24 Oct 1776 and 6 Dec 1781 in Somerset Co., MD about age 62.

Death Notes: Catherine (Hitch) Byrd's will was written on Oct 24 1776 and probated Dec 6 1781. (SoWorig, Box 13, Folder 42).

General Notes: On Jan 16 1730/31, "Catterine" Heatch received a deed of gift of "one negro girl called Sarah" from her father Adam Heatch (SoLR-SH:296). On Aug 1 1738, William Elgate gave 150 acres of land called "Jeshimon" to Catherine Byrd, wife of Thomas Byrd Jr., and daughter of Hannah Hitch.

Catherine (Hitch) Byrd's will was written on Oct 24 1776 and proved in Somerset County on Dec 6 1781. In it, she leaves: ·To grandsons Henry Dulaney and Joshua Byrd Roberts, all my land to be equally divided ·To my ten grandchildren and if Joshua Byrd Roberts should die without issue then his part to grandson Benjamin Roberts ·To grandson Henry Dulaney one negro boy Sam ·To Joshua Byrd Roberts on negro Levin ·To granddaughter Anna Roberts one negro Nan ·To three grandchildren £50 which my son Joshua left me to be equally divided ·My whole estate in the hands of Robert Hitch to pay out when grandchildren become of age Robert Hitch named executor. Witnesses: Joshua Humphriss, Joseph Humphriss, Jesse Byrd. Fisher Roberts listed as administrator on Feb 12 1782. (SoWorig, B13, F42)

Catherine married Thomas BYRD Jr., son of Thomas BYRD Sr. and Sarah ELGATE, between 1731 and 1738 in Somerset Co., MD. Thomas was born between 1711 and 1714 in Somerset Co., MD and died between 1 Jul 1754 and 16 Mar 1757 in Somerset Co., MD about age 42.

Birth Notes: Byrd Family Genealogy from Walt Wilson of Huntsville, Alabama received via electronic mail Mar 10 1996 (17:46:19). Also, conversed with Mr. Wilson by telephone the same day.

Death Notes: Thomas Byrd's will was written Jul 1 1754 and probated Mar 16 1757. (SoW-EB4:59).

General Notes: Thomas Byrd's will was written July 1, 1754 and probated March 16, 1757. In it, he devises: - to son Elgate Byrd 150 acres of land called "Jesemon" and 50 acres called "Elgats Lott" - to son Thomas Byrd, manor plantation including 50 acres of "Elgats Lott" and 50 acres "Hacilah" given to Sarah Byrd by William Elgate - to son Benjamin Byrd, plantation on Quantico Branch, 150 acres called "Partner's Choice" - to daughter Mary Byrd, a girl Nico - to daughter Betty Byrd, a negro girl Hanah, a feather bed and furniture - to son Joshua Byrd, a negro girl Ester and a walnut desk - to well beloved wife Catherine Byrd, a "mair" and side saddle and 1/3 of estate. Witnesses: Moses Driskill, Thomas Humphris, Benjamin Byrd. (Somerset County Wills, Liber EB4, Folio 59)

54 M i. Benjamin BYRD was born in Somerset Co., MD and died before 7 Jun 1774 in Somerset Co., MD.

General Notes: Benjamin Byrd's administration was finalized Jun 7 1774 with an account totaling £66.8.0. Distributions were made as 1/6 to Joshua Byrd, 1/6 to wife of Fisher Roberts, 1/6 to mother Catherine Byrd, 1/12 to Margaret Byrd, daughter of brother Elgate Byrd, 1/6 to wife of Poll Dulany (he is deceased) and 1/12 to Martha Byrd, daughter of brother Elgate Byrd. Administrator is Thomas Byrd (MdPrA-71:61).

59 M vi. Joshua BYRD died between 31 Jan 1774 and 7 Mar 1774 in Somerset Co., MD.

General Notes: Joshua Byrd's will was written Jan 31 1774 and probated in Somerset County on Mar 7 1774. He made bequests to his mother Catherine Byrd, brother Thomas Byrd, sister Mary Dulany and her son Henry Dulany, sister and her son Thomas Roberts. Also cousins John Byrd, Mary Givens Byrd and Matthew Byrd (SoW-EB5:43)

Catherine next married Benjamin BYRD, son of Thomas BYRD Sr. and Sarah ELGATE, after 16 Mar 1757 in Somerset Co., MD.³ Benjamin was born about 1720 in Somerset Co., MD and died about 1773 ^³ about age 53.

1. Somerset Co., MD Judicials, Somerset Co., MD Judicials, This date is based upon depositions made in the Somerset Co.

3. Byrd Family GEDCOM, Byrd Family GEDCOM from Walt Wilson of Huntsville, Aalabama, received via America OnLine on 3/10/96, 17:46:19. Also, conversed with him by telephone the same day.

4. "Genealogy of Womach, Scott, Hitch, Kerry..., "Genealogy of Womach, Scott, Hitch, Kerry & Related Families", compiled by W. Richard Womach, 502 Bayfront Drive, Broadkill Beach, Milton, DE 19968. (302) 684-3170 [1995].

5. "Store Accounts of John Nelms of Salisbury," "Store Accounts of John Nelms of Salisbury," John E. Jacobs, Jr, Listed as sister of Eve Harris.

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Descendants of Adam Hitch

Second Generation

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