Berryman Scalf, son of John Scalf, Sr. and Edeah (Edy) Carlisle Scalf was the great-great grandfather of the author of this chapter.
Very little has been written in prior writings concerning Berryman Scalf and his descendents. The author believes this might have been due in part to the fact that so many Scalf family members of the three brothers, John Scalf, Sr., Benjamin Scalf and David S. Scalf were living near each other in the East Tennessee area. Another contributing factor may have been the difficulty in researching the East Tennessee counties. Many early records were burned or lost during the Civil War.
The Washington/Carter/Sullivan/Hawkins County areas along with Scott/Lee and Russell Counties in Virginia connect in the area where our East Tennessee families were living. This also caused much difficulty in determining the family members of the three brothers John Sr., David S. and Benjamin Scalf. While most of the children of John Scalf, Sr. moved from the East Tennessee/Southwest Virginia area to Kentucky, his son Berryman Scalf decided to make his home in Washington County, Tennessee.
David S. Scalf arrived in Washington County, Tennessee sometime between 1820 and 1830. He was found in Greenville County, South Carolina in 1820 living near his father Lewis and by 1830 he is listed on the Washington County, Tennessee census. Most of his children remained in the area of Washington, Carter and Sullivan counties where many remain today, as well as the Berryman Scalf family (son of John Scalf, Sr).
We believe (no proof) that Benjamin Scalf arrived in East Tennessee before 1820; however, only a scant list for the 1820 census has been compiled for East Tennessee and this census was compiled from other records. Benjamin was not found on this census. This does not mean Benjamin was not in East Tennessee but simply means he was not found on other records by the compiler. By 1835, Benjamin had moved on to McDonough County, Illinois where some of his children were also found.
The author is of the opinion that the remaining descendents of these three men in the East Tennessee/Southwest Virginia area were/are the descendents of David S. Scalf and John Scalf, Sr. with the exception of possibly Mahala and Malinda Scalf. We have not been able to determine if these two women were children of David S. or Benjamin Scalf at this time. No evidence has been found at this time to suggest they could have been part of the family of John Scalf, Sr. or his son Berryman.
Russell County, Virginia and the above-mentioned East Tennessee Counties are located near each other and the Tennessee counties mentioned above lie on the Virginia border.
To the knowledge of the author there has not been a family researcher from the line of Berryman Scalf in the East Tennessee area compiling the line of Berryman or the other various lines of the East Tennessee families other than Bob Scalf of Knoxville, Tennessee (now living in Blaine, TN). Bob descends from the line of David S. Scalf (son of Lewis 1745)
Bob was in the process of compiling the David S. Scalf family when Henry Scalf was writing Chronicles of the Scalf Family. Due to Bob’s military obligation his research was discontinued until his military obligation was fulfilled. Bob corresponded with Henry Scalf during the writing of Chronicles of the Scalf Family and contributed information gathered on the East Tennessee Scalf families at that time.
It was not until 1984 that the author decided to undertake the task of sorting through these families in order to make an attempt at compiling the line of Berryman. Unfortunately, Chronicles of the Scalf Family, as well as Scalf Family History had both been written at that time. The author was unable to contribute any help to either of the authors concerning the Berryman Scalf family. It was around 1986 that the author first learned of the writings of Henry and Elmer D. Scalf and eventually corresponded with Elmer Scalf, author of Scalf Family History.
At that time Berryman was the only interest of the author; however, time, curiosity, and a love for genealogy became such a challenge that the desire to compile the Scalf family as a whole became more than just a hobby; it became an obsession, as my family can certainly testify to.
A family history cannot be compiled without error no matter who the compiler may be or how accurate one attempts to be. Records are often in error as well as family legend. Legend can certainly not be disregarded but the truth often lies somewhere between the legend and the documented evidence. For errors in this history we apologize though none are intentional.
In many instances one will find errors on official records. Nothing can be done by the author to change these types of errors other than to note statements of family members. Officially, the records will take precedence over our own family knowledge whether right or wrong simply because it is an “official record.”
The author reminds the reader to keep in mind that official records were only as accurate as the person who gave the information for the record. Some informants hardly knew the person for which the record was written and sometimes did not know them at all. We have tried to note in all instances where the information conflicts with known family facts; however, if something has been missed please notify either the author or Bob Scalf at Scalf Family website so we can make note of this.
In the beginning of my research on Berryman Scalf and the families of East Tennessee, many errors were certainly made. Unfortunately, some of those errors found their way into manuscripts, which were deposited with the Mormon Library in Salt Lake City, Utah as well as other facilities. These manuscripts then became what some researchers believe to be “official records.” This information is now listed on CD’s and being sold to those who follow the genealogy path.
This became very concerning to the author and a significant factor in the driving force to set the records straight not only for the East Tennessee Scalf family but also for the Scalf family as a whole and the generations that follow.
As stated above a family history cannot be compiled without error. It is the desire of the author to eliminate some of the previous errors and hopefully provide a somewhat clearer pathway for those who may want to join us in the search for our family heritage.
BERRYMAN SCALF
Son of
John Scalf, Sr. & Edeah Carlisle
(Berryman<John Sr<Lewis)
Berryman Scalf, son of John Scalf, Sr. and Edeah (Edy) Carlisle Scalf was born about 1809 or 1810 either in Floyd County, Kentucky or Russell County, Virginia. Berryman consistently stated he was born in Virginia; however, his father John Scalf, Sr. was found on the 1810 Floyd County, Kentucky census which conflicts with the time and location where Berryman stated he was born.
Logically, if Berryman were born 1809 as most records suggest, then he certainly could have been born in Floyd County, Kentucky; however, due to the location of his father at that time, he also could have migrated through Russell County, Virginia on his way to Kentucky when he left North Carolina around 1805-1806. Berryman could have been born in either Virginia or Kentucky. We have neither legend nor official records to confirm his place of birth other than census records, which cannot be relied on as accurate.
The area where John Scalf, Sr. was living before his move to Kentucky suggests he could have easily traveled through Russell County, Virginia prior to arriving in Floyd County, Kentucky as many other pioneer’s had done. Further research may eventually reveal the exact route the John Scalf, Sr. family traveled.
There has been some confusion over the years concerning the proper name of Berryman Scalf. It has been recorded in some manuscripts that his given name was Benjamin. In the early days of my research it was not believed by the Berry B. Scalf family that Benjamin was his correct name. Therefore, my daughter and I pursued the records in order to prove or disprove this.
Berryman has also been listed as Green Berry in other manuscripts, as well as Barryman. Benjamin versus Berryman has certainly been argued over the years between various researchers. However, after careful review of the available records and information from family members this author is satisfied beyond any shadow of a doubt that the correct name was Berryman Scalf.
Berryman may have been removed from the home of his father in Russell County, Virginia when the court ordered some of the children removed; however, as with most all of his other sons, no records have been found to confirm or deny that Berryman was actually removed from the home. Berryman did learn the art of a wheel right and it is possible that he may have learned this through an apprenticeship if he was removed from the home, or simply from a neighbor. Berryman may also have learned this art from his wife’s family who appeared to have been engaged in the saddle business.
Regardless of where Berryman learned this trade, legend reveals that he was “good at it.” Some years ago, Mary Scalf Kilgore and the author visited briefly with an elderly gentleman in the Nicholsville (Russell Co) Virginia area. This gentleman recalled his grandfather stating, “There was a Scalf man around here that was very good at making wagon wheels.” Considering the age of the gentleman and the approximate time frame that his grandfather would have been living, we believe it was likely Berryman he recalled.
Another name mentioned by this gentleman was “Kilgore.” It is a matter of record that the Kilgore family resided in this area and one family member was well known as a “wheel right.” We know of no other Scalf man that might have lived in the area and made wagon wheels; therefore, we assume it was Berryman the gentleman was speaking of. Due to the fact that Mary had married a Kilgore we often wondered if Berryman learned the trade from the Mr. Kilgore mentioned. The Kilgore family arrived in Russell County many years before the Scalf family.
Whether Berryman was born in Russell County, Virginia or Floyd County, Kentucky, it is a matter of record that he grew up in Russell County, Virginia for his father left Floyd County, Kentucky sometime around 1812-1815 after an incident that landed him in the Floyd County jail. John Scalf Sr. was charged with fighting a Mr. McGuire and placed in jail. The old soldier had served in the Continental Line during the Revolutionary War and McGuire had served as a Tory. Words between the two men over the war then escalated to a fight and John apparently drew a knife. John was arrested and placed in jail but later broke jail and “high-tailed” it to Russell County, Virginia taking the chains he was bound in along with him. The story of what happened that day has been passed down through the generations and may or may not be an accurate account of what happened. This story was not included in the Floyd County records. However, the records of Floyd County do reveal that he was charged with fighting a Mr. McGuire and escaped jail before he was tried. The Floyd County records also reveal that the sheriff was charged for the chains.
The family was then found in Russell County by 1820. Berryman was one of the children mentioned in the deposition of Patsy Counts Scalf in Hawkins County, Tennessee as a son of John Scalf, Sr. Patsy mentioned his name as “Berry.”
At some point between 1825 and 1830 Berryman left the Russell County, Virginia area and moved over to Washington County, Tennessee. His sister Lydia Scalf had married Johnson or Johnston Painter and lived in Washington County, Tennessee. We can only assume this was why Berryman was in Washington County, Tennessee for we have no records to support this. It is difficult to determine if Berryman was in the home of his father in 1830 Russell County but we believe he had already moved over to Washington County, Tennessee or he may have simply been away from home that day.
Berryman was either living in Washington County, Tennessee with relatives or visiting when he met his future wife, Myrtle Rebecca Page. However, a male of his approximate age in 1830 has not been found in any of the homes of relatives in Washington County, Tennessee. It is possible that Berryman was either staying with his sister Lydia Scalf Painter or visiting with the family when he met his future wife. He may also have been working in Washington County, Tennessee at the time. A number of possibilities exist for Berryman being in Washington County, Tennessee. We only know for sure that this is where he married Myrtle Rebecca Page whose family did live in Washington County, Tennessee.
On November 12, 1831, Berryman Scalf and James Wheeler signed a bond of marriage for Berryman and Rebecca Page in Washington County, Tennessee. Berryman and Rebecca were married 17 November 1831. David Shackleford, Baptist Minister in Washington County, Tennessee, returned the license.
Link to marriage bond of Berryman Scalf
Link to marriage license of Berryman Scalf
Link to marriage return of Berryman Scalf
Rebecca was the daughter of Nathan Page and we believe her mother was Martha. It is suggested in at least one record that Martha might have been Martha Gillespie. However, we have no confirming information at this time for Martha’s maiden name.
By 1840, Berryman and Rebecca had begun their family and were found living in Greene County, Tennessee a neighboring county of Washington and Sullivan.
Berryman and Rebecca had three sons and one daughter in 1840. This would have been Jesse Ralph, Nathan, Martha Jane and Mark. Berryman was still living in Greene County when his father, John Scalf, Sr. passed away in March of 1848.
A deed from Washington County, Tennessee dated 1846, reveals that Berryman sold 62.5 acres in one tract and 37 acres in another tract to his brother-in-law, Mark Montieth for $200. This land was located in Washington County and Berryman sold all but 1/7 of this property. This deed indicates that Berryman owned land in Washington County but lived in Greene County, Tennessee.
Berryman and his brother-in-law, Mark Montieth husband of Rebecca’s sister Jane, were both living in Greene County, Tennessee at this time. We believe the 1/7 of an acre might have been part of the Nathan Page property intended for his wife Rebecca at the death of her father. It is also possible that Berryman had bought this acreage from her father.
The area of Greene County where Berryman lived and the area of Washington County where the land was sold most likely joined. Greene and Washington counties meet around the area of Fall Branch, which is where Berryman appeared to be living at this time. The land was located at the headwaters of “the Fall Branch of horse creek” (1846 Washington County, TN deed)
As the census records of 1840 reveal, Berryman was living in Greene County, Tennessee in 1840.
Berry Scalf
2 males <-5 1835-1840 Nathan and Mark
1 male 5-10 1830-1835 Jesse
1 male 20-30 1810-1820 Berryman
1 female <-5 1835-1840 Martha Jane
1 female 20-30 1810-1820 Rebecca
By 1850, Berryman and Rebecca were found in Washington County, Tennessee. This move was likely just across the county line from Greene.
Berryman’s name has been listed in some manuscripts as Benj. We believe the transcribed book version of the 1850 census is likely the reason for the misspelling of Berryman’s name in so many manuscripts. Reviewing the original microfilm version the handwriting of the enumerator could have been interpreted as BENJ or BERY; however, we believe the intention of the enumerator was probably BERY considering information from his sister-in-law, Patsy Counts Scalf.
Other records confirm the name was Berryman and links to those records will be listed in these writings. A copy of the original microfilm version of the 1850 census is listed here for review along with the transcribed copy (listed below).
Link to 1850 census of Berryman Scalf
Berryman’s son Berry B. was also listed as Henry in some manuscripts as well as in the book, Scalf Family History. This is also incorrect. Berryman did not have a son named Henry to the knowledge of family members.
Again, we believe the handwriting of the enumerator was misinterpreted and the name Bery appeared to some researchers as Henry on the 1850 census.
Considering the fact that close relatives of the Berry B. Scalf family have never heard of a son of Berryman named Henry, we believe that BERRY B. (son of Berryman) was misinterpreted as HENRY from this census record. The name Henry has found its way into many manuscripts as well. This author remembers well hearing about Berry B. Scalf, but never about Henry.
Mrs. Nannie Mae McNutt Fincher knew the Berry B. Scalf family very well as a young girl due to her relationship to the family. Nannie was the great niece of Matilda Pierson Scalf. Nannie’s grandmother and Matilda were sisters and the Pierson, Bates and Scalf families visited often.
In a conversation with Nannie before her death she stated the brothers of Berry B. Scalf, as she had known of them. The brothers stated by her were William, Simpson and Samuel Doctor. Simpson was known as Sim and Doctor was known as Doc.
In her words, Nannie stated, “I did not know any of them personally other than uncle Berry and Sim. I don’t recall ever hearing about a Henry. The older ones had died by the time I was old enough to know of family relationships. I had heard their names mentioned but can’t recall them now but I know Henry was not one of them. Doc was dead at the time and the reason I can recall him is from family talk and I thought he was a real doctor. His wife was a well-known midwife around Scott County but I can’t, for the life of me, remember her name. She died at her daughter’s house here in Kingsport sometime in the 30’s” (Interview with Nannie Mae McNutt Fincher, 1990)
Nannie would have been a teenager when Simpson Scalf died and in her 20’s when Berry B. Scalf died.
1850 WA Co. TN 13 December 1850 4th Subdivision
Bery Scalf 41 1809 VA Value of Real Estate $85
Rebecca 40 1810 TN
Jesse 18 1832 TN
Nathan 15 1835 TN
Martha J. 13 1837 TN
Mark M. 12 1838 TN
James 9 1841 TN
Andrew 7 1843 TN
Wm. 5 1845 TN
Berry 3 1847 TN
The 1850 census lists Berryman’s birthplace as Virginia. Berryman and Rebecca were living in the same subdivision (district) as Rebecca’s father Nathan Page at this time.
Rebecca’s father left his Will 18 October 1856 in Washington County, Tennessee listing his daughter Rebecca Scalf as an heir. She was one of seven known children of Nathan Page. Records suggest there were at least two siblings who died and a half-sister named Hannah.
A statement from the will of Nathan Page suggests that Nathan was married twice. Nathan stated, “I give and bequeath to my wife Elizabeth 27 acres of Land to have during her natural life or widowhood and then to return to our heir if any there should be but if not then to return to my first heirs.”
This statement indicates that Elizabeth was the second wife of Nathan Page and census records appear to confirm this.
Nathan’s wife from the 1850 census was Martha and the age of his wife from the 1830 and 1840 census correlates with the age of Martha in 1850. At the time of his will in 1856 his wife is named Elizabeth. Although it is possible her name was Martha Elizabeth, we believe these are two separate women based on the ages of the women from the census records. Elizabeth named in his will was younger than Martha.
The fact that Rebecca Page Scalf named a daughter Martha as well as her sister Susannah certainly suggests that Martha was the mother of Rebecca and Susannah. The statement “to return to our heir if any there should be” indicates that Nathan’s second wife might have been expecting a child when he made his will.
Note that “heir” is in the singular form not pleural. An Elizabeth Page was found on the Washington County, Tennessee census of 1860 with sons Albert and Royston and a daughter Hannah. This family may or may not be the second family of Nathan Page; however, we believe that they were.
I Nathan Page do make and publish this my last will and Testament First I direct that my funeral expenses and all my debts be paid as soon after my death as possible out of any moneys that I may die possessed of or may first Come into the hands of my executors secondly I give and bequeath to my wife Elizabeth 27 acres of Land to have during her natural life or widowhood and then to return to our heir if any there should be but if not then to return to my first heirs Equally to wit, beginning on a stake in the line between myself and William Keen and running so as to include the Dwelling house and running by or with a row of peachtrees and so on so as to inclose the above named twenty seven acres.
Thirdly I Give and bequeath to James Crabtree the remainder of my Land which is supposed to be fifty five acres by said James Crabtree paying sixty five dollars in eighteen months from the date of my death to wit to Rebecca Scalf seven dollars
To Susan Charlton seven dollars to Jane Montieth seven dollars to John Pages heirs five dollars to Andrew Page seven dollars; the said James Crabtree is to have possession on date of the said fifty five acres by him taking good care of me the said Nathan Page as long as I may live Fourthly I will that all my property be sold and equally divided between my first named eight heirs Fifthly I will all my clothes to Moses Page provided he comes back but if not to James Crabtree Lastly I do hereby nominate David F Hall my Executor in witness whereof I do this my will set my hand and seal this 18th day of October 1856.
his
Terry White Nathan x Page Seal
Samel H. English mark
(See copy of will, Page 1, at this link)
(See copy of will, Page 2, at this link)
Nathan’s will states that all his property be sold and equally divided between his first named “eight heirs” which appear to be his wife Elizabeth, daughters; Rebecca Scalf, Susan Charleton and Jane Montieth. Sons (John Page heirs) Andrew Page, and son-in-law, James Crabtree. This totals to only seven. However, he mentions his son Moses Page last and this would calculate to eight of his first heirs.
James Crabtree was the husband of Nathan’s daughter Catherine. Catherine was not mentioned in the will but her husband James was to receive property for taking care of Nathan.
The 1830 census suggests Nathan Page had an older son that
died before 1840 and the 1850 census shows a daughter Rachel who does not appear
in marriage records or on a census afterwards. It is believed that Rachel died.
Marriage records of Washington County reveal that all of Nathan’s daughters had married before the enumeration of the 1840 census. Rachel was not mentioned in the will of Nathan Page nor was she found in the marriage records of Washington County, further suggesting she had died.
Berryman and Rebecca named a son Nathan, probably for his grandfather. Nathan Scalf married Martha Crabtree in Washington County. We have not found a relationship of Martha and James Crabtree (if any) at this date but we believe Martha might have been a sister or a cousin to the James Crabtree from the will of Nathan Page.
John Page, son of Nathan, was deceased at the writing of Nathan’s will in 1856. John left a family for Nathan stated in his will, “John Pages heirs.” We have no information on John’s family at this time.
Nathan’s son Moses had left home and apparently had not returned by 1856 as Nathan stated in his will “should he return.” No information has been found on Moses Page other than he witnessed the deed from Berryman Scalf to Mark Montieth in 1846.
The family of Nathan Page is listed from the census records for research purposes for those interested in tracing the family of Myrtle Rebecca (Page) Scalf.
We do not have information before 1830 on the Nathan Page family. Correspondence with Page family researchers has failed to determine the progenitor of Nathan Page at this time. Some Page researchers believe he came from Kentucky while others believe North Carolina.
Page, Nathan
1 m < - 5 1825-1830 John
1 m 5 –10 1820-1825 Andrew
1 m 10-15 1815-1820 Moses
1 m 40-50 1780-1790 Nathan
2 f 10-15 1815-1820 Susannah and Catherine
2 f 15-20 1810-1815 Rebecca and Jane
1 f 30-40 1790-1800 Martha
Page, Nathan
1 m 5-10 1830-1835 John
1 m 10-15 1825-1830 Andrew
1 m 15-20 1820-1825 Moses
1 m 20-30 1810-1820 Unknown son probably died
1 m 50-60 1780-1790 Nathan
1 f 40-50 1790-1800 Martha
The acreage from the deed of Berryman Scalf to Mark Montieth in 1846 had been previously conveyed to Berryman’s father-in-law Nathan Page by Cage Grimsley. This suggests that Cage Grimsley might have been the father-in-law of Nathan Page.
The name “Cage” was used during that time as a nickname for Micajah; however, we have no knowledge if this would have been the name of Cage Grimsly. E. W. Headrick, Loyd Jackson and Moses Page were witnesses to the deed between Berryman Scalf and Mark Montieth and the deed was recorded 27 October 1847.
Unfortunately, this deed was found early on in my research and the deed book was not recorded but can easily be found in the deed indexes of Washington County, Tennessee. (link to deed. page 1) (link to deed. page 2)
From the 1850 census we find Nathan and Martha Page living in the 4th subdivision of Washington County, Tennessee.
1850 Wa. Co. TN 13 December 1850 4th Subdivision
Page, Nathan 62 1788 TN
Martha 64 1786 TN
Moses 30 1820 TN
John 23 1827 TN
Rachel 27 1823 TN
Below is a compilation of the census records along with the marriages of the daughters of Nathan Page; Susannah Page Charleton, Catherine Page Crabtree, and Jane Page Montieth. The Charleton family would become close friends of the Scalf family and remain so to this day.
1) Rebecca Page married Berryman Scalf 17 November 1831 Wa. Co. TN
2) Susanna Page married Simpson Charlton/Charleton 5 July 1832 Wa. Co. TN
3) Catherine Page married James Crabtree 12 April 1838.Wa.Co. TN
4) Jane Page married Mark Montieth 17 May 1839.
Living a number of houses away from Nathan Page in 1840 was Terry White. Terry White is believed to be the father of Maranda J. (Ran) White who married Elizabeth Scalf, possible daughter of Benjamin or David Scalf.
According to family legend, both Ran and Elizabeth were killed by Indians. James V. Hankle/Hinkle and Rebecca Scalf Hankle/Hinkle raised the children of Ran and Elizabeth (family legend).
This Rebecca Scalf was not the daughter of Berryman but appears to have been the daughter of either Benjamin Scalf or David Scalf. Elizabeth Scalf White was likely a sister to Rebecca. We strongly believe that both were daughters of Benjamin Scalf due in part to the fact that James V. Hankle/Hinkle and Rebecca Scalf were found in McDonough County, Illinois with several of the White children in the home. Benjamin Scalf had moved to McDonough County 1830-1832 and a number of his married children (if not all) had also moved there.
Nathan Page had died by the enumeration of the 1860 census and a search of the census records reveal that an Elizabeth Page was living in Jonesboro (Washington County) Tennessee with three children. We believe the oldest child was from a former marriage even though he is listed as Page on this census.
Royston, age 7 was likely the son of Nathan Page and. Daughter Hannah was three years old born 1857. Hannah would have been born after the death of Nathan Page. We cannot confirm that this was the second family of Nathan Page; however, there is a good possibility that it was. Elizabeth was age 35 on this census and born 1825. This does not coincide with the age of Martha Page from the 1830, 1840 and 1850 censuses and we believe Martha was Nathan’s first wife.
Many of the neighbors of Nathan Page were found nearby Elizabeth Page in Haggard’s district also adding credence that this was likely Nathan’s second wife and family. Terry White and James Crabtree were also found in this district.
1860 Washington Co. TN 28 July 1860 Jonesboro Haggards District
Page, Elizabeth 35 1825 Spinner Gen TN
Albert 14 1846 TN
Royston 7 1853 TN
Hannah 3 1857 TN
Living next door to Nathan Page in 1840 was his daughter and son-in-law, Simpson Charelton. Simpson and Susannah were still living next door to Nathan in 1850.
1840 Washington Co. TN
Charelton, Simpson
One male < - 5 1835-1840
One male 5 – 10 1830-1835
One male 30 – 40 1800-1810
One female < - 5 1835-1840
One female 20 – 30 1810-1820
1850 Wa. Co. TN 12 December 1850 4th Subdivision
Charleton, Simpson 49 1801 Saddler TN
Susan 31 1819 TN
John 17 1833 Student TN
Moses 13 1837 TN
Cata 11 1839 TN
Martha 10 1840 TN
Eleanor 4 1846 TN
Andrew 1 1849 TN
Cata was probably Catie and short for Catharine. The (a) usually replaced the (ie) or (y) at that time. Simpson and Susannah were not found in Washington County after this census.
Rebecca’s sister Jane Page married Mark Montieth and this family was found living in Sullivan County, Tennessee just across the line from Washington County in 1850 near Brandon Page.
This census record was difficult to locate due to the fact that Mark’s surname was written by the enumerator as “Teeth” in 1850. Brandon Page and wife Rebecca were living two houses away from Mark and Jane. Brandon was 20 and Rebecca was 28. Family relation unknown.
1850 Washington Co. TN 13 December 1850 4th Subdivision East
Teeth, Mark 30 1820
Jane 28 1822
George 10 1840
Elizabeth 6 1844
Annie 1 1849
Montieth, Mark 48 1812 Farmer TN
Jane 45 1815 Domestic TN
George W. 20 1840 Farm Labor TN
Elizabeth 14 1846 TN
Moses 12 1848 TN
Anis K. 10 1850 TN
Neoma 4 1856 TN
Living next door to Mark and Jane Page Montieth in 1870 is George W. Montieth, son of Mark and Jane. George’ s wife is listed as Juliana (maiden name unknown). Their children were, Mary, 8 years old; Elizabeth, 6 years old and Neomah, 1 year old. Both George and Juliana were 30 years old at this time.
1870 Su. Co. TN 2 August 1870 District 8 Blountville P.O.
Montieth, Mark 53 1817 Farmer TN
Jane 44 1826 Keeps House TN
Moses 22 1848 TN
Neomah 14 1856 TN
Living next door to Mark and Jane in 1880 again is their son George and family. George now has a son named Moses. Living on the other side of George was Mark’s son Moses Montieth and his wife Elizabeth (maiden name unknown). Moses and Elizabeth had no children at this time.
1880 Su. Co. TN 1 June 1880 8th District Blountville
Montieth, Mark 63 1817 Farmer TN TN TN
Jane 64 1816 TN TN TN
Neomah 23 1857 TN TN TN
In 1850, Catherine Page Crabtree (sister of Rebecca Page Scalf) and her husband James were living in Greene County, Tennessee and were found on the 1850 census. Catherine Page married James Crabtree 12 April 1838 in Washington County, Tennessee.
1850 Greene Co. TN 13 December 1850 9th Division East District
Crabtree, James 32 1818 TN Tenant
Catherine 28 1822 TN
Martha 21 1829 TN Attended school in this year
(1850 Greene Co, TN page 1) (1850 Greene Co, TN page 2)
James and Catherine were living in Washington County, Tennessee in 1860. Martha in the home appears to be their daughter and is listed as 21 years old on this census. She was born 1829. It is doubtful that she was the daughter of James and Catherine for James would have been 11 yrs old at her birth. We believe Martha was a relative (possibly a sister) to James Crabtree.
This Martha could have been the wife of Nathan Scalf, son of Berryman and Rebecca. However, it is just as possible that another Martha Crabtree was the wife of Nathan Scalf. Note that Martha is gone from the home of James and Catherine in 1860. Nathan Scalf married Martha Crabtree 28 December 1856 further suggesting this could have been the same Martha Crabtree who married Nathan Scalf.
Crabtree, James 42 1818 TN Farmer
Catherine 38 1822 TN Domestic
Abner 20 1840 TN Farmer
Margaret 17 1843 TN Domestic
Elizabeth 12 1848 TN
Susan E. 10 1850 TN
Elbert T. 7 1853 TN
Terry/Jerry? 4 1856 TN
Matilda C. 2/12 1860 TN
We believe that the parents of Joseph B. Ruth, husband of Martha Jane Scalf, (daughter of Berryman) was living next door to James Crabtree in 1860 and this family is listed for research purposes concerning the Ruth descendents. Joseph is not in the home on this census for he had married at this time.
Ruth, Henry 70 1790 TN Shoemaker
Mary 57 1803 NC Domestic
Mary 22 1838 VA Domestic
G. W. 18 1842 TN Farmer
By 1860 Berryman and Rebecca had moved their family once again. This time, the move was to Hawkins County, Tennessee. They were found living in the area of New Canton in 1860. New Canton encompassed a wider area in 1860 than it does today and we believe that Berryman was actually living on what is known as the “upper end” of Beech Creek Community, which is located on the north side of Chimney Top Mountain. The south side of Chimney Top Mountain is located in Greene/Washington County, Tennessee and the north side is located in Hawkins/Sullivan County, Tennessee. It joins Sullivan County on what is known to locals at the “upper end.” A small strip of Washington County joins Greene County on the south side of Chimney Top Mountain.
The neighbors living around Berryman suggest that he was likely living on the “upper end” of Beech Creek. Abraham Dykes was living next door to Berryman and Rebecca in 1860 and a couple of the grandchildren of Abraham Dykes would later become spouses of several of Berryman’s grandchildren. The Abraham Dykes Sr. family farm was located in what is now known as the Beech Creek Community; however, at least one of Abraham Dykes’ sons moved across the mountain at Chimney Top into Greene County, Tennessee.
On the 1860 census, once again the enumerator’s handwriting suggests the name could have been BENJ; however, the name is listed in these writings as BERY because the author believes this to be the correct name although BERY is an incorrect spelling. It is the opinion of the author that the enumerator misspelled the name as BERY, which caused it to appear to be BENJ. This has confused researchers for many years.
(Link to 1860 census of Berryman Scalf)
In the home of Berryman and Rebecca is the family of Joseph B. Ruth and Martha Jane Scalf Ruth, daughter and son-in-law of Berryman and Rebecca. Their daughter, Myrtle Rebecca Ruth had been born at this time and was seven months old in July of 1860.
It has not been determined at this time what the relationship of Lotty Compton might have been to the Scalf family. However, a number of Compton families lived in this area and she might have simply been a neighbor visiting that day. A later marriage in this line suggests a relationship to the Compton family. The father of the author was born at Chimney Top and knew a number of the Compton families that remain friends of the family today.
1860 Hawkins CO, TN 26 July 1860 District 16 New Canton
SCALF, Bery 52 1808 TN
(Page) Rebecca 50 1810 TN
Mark M. 21 1839 TN
James 19 1841 TN
Andrew 17 1843 TN
William 15 1845 TN
Berry 12 1848 TN
Doctor S. 10 1850 TN
Simpson 8 1852 TN
COMPTON, Lotty 20 1840 TN
RUTH, Joseph 25 1835 TN
“ Martha J. 23 1837 TN
“ Rebecca M. 7/12 1859 TN
By 1870, Berryman and Rebecca had moved once again. This move was to Scott County, Virginia, which is approximately 20-30 miles from the Washington/Hawkins/Greene and Sullivan County area. They were living at Copper Creek Community where their sons Berry B. and Simpson Scalf would marry Pierson cousins.
Berryman stated on this census that his occupation was “wheelright.” The enumerator clearly wrote BERRY on this census. Sarah Pierson is listed in the home and was apparently visiting the Scalf family at this time for she did not marry Simpson until 1873. Berry B. and Matilda had married in January of 1870. Sarah and Matilda Pierson were cousins and this was probably the beginning of the courtship of Simpson Scalf and Sarah Pierson.
(Link to 1870 Scott Co. VA census)
SCALF, Berry 61 1809
VA Wheelright
Rebecca 58 1812
TN
Berry 20 1850 TN
Simpson 18 1852 TN
Doctor S. 16 1854 TN
(Pierson) Matilda 20 1850 VA
(Pierson) Sarah M. 23 1847 VA
Samuel Doctor Scalf also met and married his wife, Nancy Caroline Eads, while living at Copper Creek. The author also remembers the Eads family. John Eads was a member of Ida Baptist Church at Speer’s Ferry and the author’s father knew him well; however, a family relationship was not mentioned to me or at least, it cannot be recalled. The author’s family spent many singing nights at Ida Church. Martha Scalf Hensley (aunt of the writer) lived almost directly across from the church and attended it for many years.
The Scalf family farm at Copper Creek has not been located at present but the Pierson family farm still stands although in a dilapidated condition and we suspect the Scalf family farm was not very far from it. An old swinging bridge provided access to the farm from the old narrow road winding down the banks of Copper Creek. A visit there in 2001 revealed that the old swinging bridge was still in operation but greatly in need of repair.
It was here that Berry B. Scalf, son of Berryman courted his future wife Matilda Virginia Pierson and many Saturday nights were spent at the Pierson farm. These two families found they had a lot in common. Both families loved music and both families played instruments and sang. While the “old folks” sang and played, the young folks courted, played, and pulled pranks on each other.
“No two families were ever as playful and happy as the Pierson and Scalf family. When these folks got together you knew you were going to be sore the next day from laughing. What one couldn’t think to pull the other one could. Several times Gillie Ann Pierson was dumped off the old swinging bridge into the creek by her Scalf cousins and in turn they too were dumped when she could get a chance.” (Nannie McNutt Fincher).
This story was one of many of the stories told by Mrs. Fincher before her death. Nannie Fincher was the daughter of David McNutt and Mary Pierson. Mary Pierson was the daughter of Nancy Pierson Bates. Nancy Pierson Bates and Matilda Pierson Scalf were daughters of Alexander Pierson and Matilda McNite/McNight. Nannie was raised by her grandparents Fred and Nancy Pierson Bates after the death of her mother. Nannie used Bates as her surname until her death. However, Nannie did know that David McNutt was her father but for reasons unknown to the author and her children, Nannie used the surname of her grandparents throughout her lifetime.
It was at Copper Creek that Myrtle Rebecca (Page) Scalf died sometime between the enumeration of the 1870 census and the year 1875. Some records suggest she might have died around 1872.
Family lore passed down states that Rebecca (Page) Scalf was Indian and married Berryman to “hide from the removal of the Cherokee.” However, Berryman and Rebecca married in 1831 and the Cherokee removal did not take place until 1838. This does not mean that Rebecca was not Indian but the dates do not coincide to support the family lore. If one considers the physical features and dark skin of the Page family as being Indian there might be some merit to the legend. The author has known several Page family members and they certainly have the physical appearance of Indian; however, physical features cannot be conclusive proof of nationality.
After the death of Rebecca, Berryman then remarried to the widow Margaret Fields Gilliam on 17 June 1875 in Scott County, Virginia. Margaret was the widow of James Gilliam and daughter of Richard T. Fields and Anna (Pierce or Percy) Fields previously of Russell County, Virginia. (Scott County, Virginia Marriages)
Berryman and Margaret moved to the Poor Valley section of Hawkins County where they were found on the 1880 census. It was on this census that Berryman stated his father was born in England. We suspect Berryman’s age had caused some senility and he could not recall where his father was born. He most likely heard his father state that his family came from England.
On this census Berryman stated that his occupation was “cabinet maker.” This census also states his name as Berry. Most of the men in the line of Berryman were/are very adequate carpenters and the author has talked to many who stated they had a love for woodworking of any type.
The children listed as Scalf on this census were actually the children of James and Margaret Fields Gilliam Scalf. Berryman and Margaret had no children.
(Link to 1880 Hawkins County, TN census)
1880 Hawkins CO, TN 1 June 1880 District 9 Watterson
SCALF, Berry Head 70 1810 VA ENG SC Cabinet Maker
(Gilliam) Margaret J. Wife 50 1830 VA VA VA
Elizabeth S-Dau 23 1847 VA VA VA
Nancy Ann S-Dau 15 1865 VA VA VA
Mahala J. S-Dau 11 1869 VA VA VA
The last record found by this researcher of Berryman Scalf was his signature on a deed with his wife Margaret (Fields) Gilliam Scalf. Having inherited property from a sister who had died without heirs, Margaret then deeded the property to another sister. Berryman relinquished his rights to the property in this deed.
This deed is recorded in Scott County, Virginia and dated 1887. No records have been found by the author to suggest that Berryman lived longer than 1887 although it is certainly possible.
His widow Margaret was found living in the home of her son James Gilliam in Hawkins County, Tennessee in 1900 suggesting that Berryman died 1887-1900. We do not know where Berryman might have been buried but most likely would have been in the vicinity of his residence in the Poor Valley of Hawkins County, Tennessee, or possibly Copper Ridge in Scott County, Virginia among other family members. If so, there is no marker to represent the grave of Berryman Scalf.
Berryman was a simple farmer. He tilled the land and raised his family the same way all farmers did at that time. He was not rich by monetary means but was able to provide a living for his family.
Berryman and Rebecca lost at least two sons and possibly three to the Civil War. Five sons answered the call but only one returned that we have been able to find records for.
One son, Andrew, was released from duty after his tour was served but no records have been found for Andrew since his discharge. Another son, Mark, we believe was the Martin. M. Scalf who died in Decatur, Alabama from disease on the train en-route to Vicksburg, Mississippi. We cannot confirm with certainty that this was Berryman’s son; however, no other M. M. Scalf appears in another family at this time in the surrounding area, nor was there any Scalf family living in the area where Mark mustered in. Mark mustered in at Henderson Depot (Rogersville Junction), which is what is known today as “Bulls Gap.” We believe strongly that M. M. Scalf was in fact, Mark M. Scalf, son of Berryman and Rebecca.
A cousin of the author related a story of Berryman that she received from her father, Charlie Scalf. Charlie stated that his grandfather had made a trip to Russell County, Virginia to visit family. The hour was late when he was returning home and as was the custom, a family on the route offered Berryman shelter for the night. This was a common practice during this time and travelers would generally sleep in the barn; however, Berryman was invited inside to sleep in the house.
The family offered Berryman a bedroom and after a cup of coffee and small talk Berryman retired for the night. There was no door to the bedroom; only a blanket was hung to separate the rooms.
Berryman had to feel his way to the bed and in the process of doing this; he stuck his hand into something warm and sticky on the bed. He struck a match for light and noticed there was blood on the bed. He then leaned across the bed to see if the window could be opened and his boot struck something solid in the floor. He lit another match and saw a body lying under the bed. He stated he was beside himself trying to figure out what to do without alerting the family to his discovery.
Berryman wasted no time in getting through the window and crawling out to the barn trying not to alert the family. He said he lay there for only a few minutes but it seemed like hours watching the house for the lamp to go out. When the family finally doused the lamp Berryman wrapped a feed sack around the horse’s muzzle and walked to a nearby hill where he slipped over the hill and quickly laid down. He watched and waited a few minutes to be sure the family had not noticed he had left and then “high-tailed it for home.” Berryman changed his route when he went visiting again.
This story has been perplexing to the author for no known family members were found living in Russell County, Virginia after 1836. However, we have no way of knowing what year this might have taken place. Berryman married in 1831 and the father and siblings of Berryman were either in Kentucky or had moved down to Hawkins County, Tennessee by 1836. We assume Berryman made his trip back to Russell County 1831-1836.
Son of
Berryman Scalf & Myrtle Rebecca Page
Jesse<Berryman<John Sr<Lewis
Jesse Ralph. Scalf, firstborn child of Berryman Scalf and Myrtle Rebecca Page was born August 13, 1832 in Washington County, Tennessee and died June 6, 1914 in Washington County, Tennessee. Jesse is buried at the Brown/Mitchell Cemetery near Haws Crossroads in Fall Branch, Tennessee near the home he built for his family. (Washington County TN Marriages, Cemetery Records and Georgia Nell Scalf Wheelock)
As his father and brothers Jesse was an adept carpenter. He built a log home on the 100 acres he purchased from his father-in-law, John Brown. This home is still standing and occupied in the Harmony Community of Washington County (Fall Branch) Tennessee and was reported by family to have been listed in the National Register of Historical Places in the 1980’s.
The home has been purchased by several different families and has been out of the Scalf family for a long time. His granddaughters stated that Jesse had built a staircase with a hand carved railing in the home that was absolutely beautiful. The author has not had the opportunity to investigate this as the home is occupied at the present time. However, if at all possible a photograph may be obtainable in the near future.
Georgia Nell Scalf Wheelock, granddaughter of Jesse informed the author at a visit that Jesse was a very religious man and that he seemed to have “an unusual way with animals.” Georgia related a story told to her by father, George Scalf, concerning Jesse. She stated that birds would fly to Jesse and sit on his shoulder as he sat in the yard, which was something he loved to do. Georgia searched for quite some time for a photograph of Jesse with a black bird sitting on his shoulder eating from his hand. However, the hour was late and we had to leave but told her we would come back at another date for a copy of the photograph. Unfortunately, Georgia died before we could return and we were unable to see the photograph; however, we have no doubt it exists.
This story was not an uncommon story in this line of the family and several
stories had been told by various descendents concerning the “unusual way with
animals” in this line of the family. The author’s father seemed to have the same
“charm.” He would catch bees in the palm of his hand without being stung. I also
did this as a youngster after my father had shown me how. However, one day, I
stepped on a honeybee with bare feet and that was the end of my desire to get
too friendly with these little creatures.
Jesse joined Company C. of the 60th Mounted Infantry (Crawford’s Unit – also known as the 79th Tennessee Infantry) on September 20, 1862 at Washington County, Tennessee. Lt. Taylor signed the registration card. His brothers, Nathan and James also enlisted at the same time and place.
Three years prior to his enlistment, Jesse married Clarissa Brown, daughter of John Brown and Margaret Kincheloe of Washington County, Tennessee 11 November 1859 in Washington County Tennessee. (Washington Co. TN Marriages)
It has been reported that this John Brown was the Revolutionary Soldier, but this is not likely. John Brown, Revolutionary Solider, would have been too old to be the father of Clarissa Brown as he was born around 1760 –1770. Clarissa was born 1832-1835 when he would have been well into his 70’s. Therefore, it is felt that she was the granddaughter of the Revolutionary Soldier, John Brown.
From the cemetery records of Washington County, Tennessee at Kingsport, Tennessee Library:
Margaret Kincheloe Brown, J. W. Brown, Clarissa Brown Scalf, Jesse R. Scalf and Clarissa’s sister Louisa and husband D. W. Mitchell are all buried at the Brown/Mitchell Cemetery in Washington County, Tennessee. This cemetery is located 8 miles northwest of Jonesboro at Mitchell Springs near Haws Crossroads on State Highway 81.
“Our Mother” Margaret Brown October 29, 1800 – July 8, 1883. She married John Brown on January 7, 1817 in Washington Co. and is the daughter of George Kincheloe.
J. W. (Wesley) Brown Jan. 22/23 1788 – Dec 18 1849. Soldier in the War of 1812. (Washington County, TN Cemetery Records)
J. W. Brown and Margaret Brown above were the parents of Clarissa Brown Scalf born about 1839. The Revolutionary War had been over for several years when this J. W. Brown was born. The marker states J. W. Brown but does not reveal that the J was for John. The name John was submitted by George Scalf Wheelock.
Margaret Kincheloe Brown was still living in 1860 when Jesse and Clarissa were living in her home; however, the 1860 census does not reveal the relationship of Margaret to Jesse and Clarissa. The name Margaret Kincheloe is reported by the family of John Wesley Scalf (son of Jesse) and Georgia Nell Scalf Wheelock (daughter of George Scalf and granddaughter of Jesse). Margaret Kincheloe Brown was the daughter of George Kincheloe according to cemetery records.
Jesse and Clarissa were enumerated on the 1860 census in the home of her mother, Margaret (Kincheloe) Brown. Clarissa’s father had passed away before the enumeration of this census. No children had been born to Jesse and Clarissa at this time; however, the granddaughters of Jesse state that their father, John Wesley Scalf was born in 1860. The census of 1860 and 1870 show that John was born after Laura Lavonne who was born 1861 according to the census records.
An excerpt from a letter written to Jean Scalf Grier from Jesse’s granddaughter, Mrs. Argil (Georgia Nell Scalf) Wheelock concerning her grandfather Jesse Scalf is listed here:
“What I know about grandfather Jesse R. Scalf. He married Clarissa Brown and she died when my father was 6 mo. Old. He later married a Jane Cox. They didn’t have any children. He was a fine carpenter. He built his home at that time - log. Did all the work his self. Made his tools that he used. Was the most out standing house in Washington County.” (Courtesy of Jean Scalf Grier)
We know that Jesse was close enough to his home after he joined the 60th Mounted Infantry to visit his family until sometime in1862 when his unit was ordered to Vicksburg, Mississippi. Legend passed down through the family states that Jesse visited his family often until this time. Company C was transferred to Vicksburg shortly before the battle there began to heat up.
Jesse lost two of his brothers at Vicksburg. These two brothers had joined the 60th at the same time and place as Jesse. Nathan cannot be found on the Memorial Rolls with his brother James due to the fact that the doctor misspelled his surname at the time of his death. This information was received from the D.A. R. chapter at Vicksburg, Mississippi.
SCALF, James; died March 29, 1863 [60th Infantry Regiment - Co. C]
(The Military Annals of Tennessee Confederate, by John Berrien Lindsley - (Published 1886 - http://www.tngenweb.org/civilwar/memrolls/snames.html)
We know this was James (son of Berryman) from his military registration card. (Military Muster Card - Courtesy of McClung Library, Knoxville, TN)
A letter was sent to the D. A. R. Chapter in Vicksburg, Mississippi in the late 1980’s by myself and Mary Scalf Kilgore requesting information on Nathan Scalf. A response was received and it was reported that he was buried under the name of Nathan Scavef in the Confederate Cemetery at Vicksburg, Mississippi. The name was misspelled due to the illegible handwriting of the physician who attended him. Nathan was not listed on the Memorial Rolls and we assume this is the reason. We were also informed that no grave was found for James. However, his military information on file at the McClung Library in Knoxville, Tennessee (copy in possession of Mary Scalf Kilgore family) states that James died at Vicksburg, Mississippi from a fallen tree.
It is unknown if Jesse rejoined his unit or if Jesse was taken prisoner; however, several men did return home and some spent the remainder of the war in prison camps. Jesse’s regiment was assigned to Brigadier General John C. Vaughn along with the 61st and 62d Tennessee Regiments.
An excerpt from the history of the 60th is listed here from the compilation of Betty S. Mize. Jesse and his brothers had joined the 60th in September of 1862.
“The brigade arrived December 26, and there followed the Battle of Chickasaw Bayou and Chickasaw Bluffs. General Stephen D. Lee’s Brigade formed the right of the line of defense, General S. M. Barton’s the center, and General Vaughn’s the left. General Vaughn reported that on the second day he send the 62nd to re-enforce Lee; the 60th to re-enforce Barton on the 3rd day; leaving one regiment, the 61st to defend the abattis. Pemberton’s report stated; "on the left, commanded by General Vaughn, the heavy abattis prevented the approach of the enemy except with sharpshooters who advanced continuously, but were met firmly by his East Tennesseans."
An inspection report by Bob E. Houston, Captain and Assistant Inspector General, for January - February 1863 on Company "G". stated: "I take pleasure in stating that in discipline, efficiency and military appearance this company exceeds that of any I have ever seen in Volunteer service."
The brigade remained at Vicksburg until about the first of May, when General Pemberton decided to meet the enemy in the field. Toward the end of this campaign, on May 17th, while guarding a bridge over the Big Black River, Vaughn’s Brigade was overwhelmed by a Federal division. The 60th regiment surrendered to Brigadier General S. G. Burbridge’s 1st Brigade, 10th Division. A regimental report stated: "Lieutenant Colonel Gregg, one captain, three 1st lieutenants, seven 2nd lieutenants, six brevet 2nd lieutenants, captured at Big Black 239. They belonged to Companies "A", "B", "C", "D", "E", "F", "G", "H" and "I". This report was dated October 1864. The Federal reports of this action stated that the regiment, with 360 stand of arms, was captured without the loss of a man by the Federal troops. What was left of the regiment fell back into Vicksburg, and remained in the trenches until the surrender on July 4, 1863. The brigade was surrendered as part of Major General M. L. Smith’s Division, and paroled a few days after the surrender.
On July 16, Vaughn’s Brigade was reported at Brandon, Mississippi.
On September 15, Inspector General Cooper stated "Vaughn’s Brigade was ordered to reassemble in East Tennessee, at such place as General Buckner might designate. But if the men have been seized by the enemy, and their paroles taken from them, it will prevent their reorganization." Colonel J. G. Rose, of the 61st Regiment, in his outline in Lindsley’s Annuals of his own regiment, stated the men from the 61st who were paroled at Vicksburg were not exchanged until June 27, 1864, and the men captured at Big Black remained in Northern prisons until the winter of 1864-5. Presumably, the same thing was true of the men from the 60th, but no definite information to that effect was found. (Typist’s note: this was true as pension applications indicate men from the 60th were held in prison camps in Indianapolis, Fort Delaware and Point Lookout). He further stated that in the spring of 1864 many of those paroled prisoners were assembled in parole camps at Jonesboro, Tennessee, awaiting exchange. A detachment from the 60th, 61st and 62nd regiments were reported near Jonesboro, September 13, 1864.” (Regimental History by Betty S. Mize)
No further information has been found to suggest where Jesse might have been until the end of the war; however, one of his granddaughters Mrs. Ida Lou Scalf Edens (now deceased) stated that her father told her that Jesse was a prisoner of war. The above history appears to confirm this. This might explain why the military records of Jesse Scalf were marked “absent and deserted at Blountville (Sullivan Co) Tennessee” after the surrender of Vicksburg.
Jesse was paroled on July 8, 1863 at the surrender of Vicksburg. He signed the oath of allegiance, which was witnessed and signed by Major Sam Ropes of the 56th Illinois Volunteers. The surrender actually took place on July 3, 1863 but was not made official until July 4, 1863.
After General Lee surrendered, Jesse returned home to his family and continued his life as a farmer. He was found as head of house on the 1870 Washington County, Tennessee census. The loss of his brothers and the cruelty of war weighed heavily on his mind but Jesse turned his attention to the farmland and family. He had lost at least two brothers and possibly four to the war. Jesse then lost his wife Clarissa in 1872 and we believe his mother also died the same year.
Census records suggest that Jesse’s first child Lavonne was born in 1861 and John Wesley in 1862 or 1863. Most likely, this was 1863. Louisa was then born in either 1864 or 1865. Considering that Jesse was in Vicksburg, Mississippi until at least July of 1863, we believe that Louisa was most likely born in late 1865 or 1866. Elvira was born around 1867 but had died by the enumeration of the 1870 census. Elvira was not known to living descendents but was listed on the census records of Washington County, Tennessee. She most likely died at a very young age.
Archibald was then born in 1870 and George, the last child of Jesse and Clarissa, was born 1872. This is the birth date stated in the family Bible of Jesse’s son George Scalf and the census records correlate with this date. The only confusion on birth dates are the birth dates of John Wesley, Louisa and Elvira. Due to the timing of the Civil War and Jesse’s involvement we believe the dates are off on the census records of 1870.
On later census records after leaving Tennessee, Jesse’s son Archibald stated that he was born 1872. He also told his second family that he was born December 25, 1872. Archibald actually celebrated his birthday on the birth date of his brother George Scalf. Archibald’s daughter, Kay (born Crystal Scalf) from his second marriage stated in a letter to Jean Grier that her father always said he was born in 1872.
We have not determined why Arch used his brother’s birth date unless he had forgotten and believed it was his own. Descendents of Jesse Scalf in the Scott County, Virginia area did not know that Archibald had remarried nor did they know what happened to him. The only information passed down from Archibald’s brothers to their children concerning Arch was the fact that “Arch had gone west as a young man and never returned.” (Statement from Ida Lou Scalf Edens to Margaret Fleenor)
Jesse’s wife, Clarissa (Brown) Scalf, died in 1872 when George was six months old and is buried at the Brown-Mitchell Cemetery at Haws Crossroads in Fall Branch (Washington County) Tennessee not far from her home in Harmony Community. Clarissa has no marker. Jesse’s second wife, Martha Jane (Cox) Scalf had Jesse buried beside of his first wife Clarissa. (Georgia Nell Scalf Wheelock statement to Margaret Fleenor)
After Clarissa’s death Jesse remarried to the widow, Martha Jane Cox April 19, 1888 in Washington County, Tennessee. Georgia Nell stated that Jesse’s children were concerned that Martha would inherit the home place after the death of Jesse and due to this Jesse sold the farm and divided the proceeds among the children.
Some descendents state that Martha had a daughter but no daughter appears on the census records; however, there are two of Martha’s niece’s living in the home of Jesse and Martha in 1900. Both were married at this time.
By 1910 Jesse and Martha were living in the home of one of the nieces of Martha.
In 1920 his widow, Martha Jane (Cox) Scalf was still living in the home of her niece.
NOTE: The 1860 census does not show any children born to Jesse and Clarissa at this time. The 1870 census does show Laura Lavonne at age 11 suggesting a birth date of 1859. Laura Lavonne could have been born sometime in 1860 after the enumeration of the census and her brother John Wesley in 1861 or possibly 1862, either before Jesse enlisted in the army in September of 1862 or shortly after.
1860 Washington CO TN 28 July 1860 Hoggards District Jonesboro
BROWN, Margaret 59 1801 TN Mother of Clarissa md. John Brown
Elvira 14 1846 TN Sister of Clarissa
SCALF, Jesse 26 1834 TN (Jesse Ralph Scalf)
Clarissa 21 1839 TN Clarissa Brown Md. 1858
HALE, Robert T. 20 1840 TN Relationship unknown
1870 Washington CO TN 28 July 1870 District 13 Haws Cross Roads
SCALF, Jesse R. 37 1833 TN
Clarissa 31 1839 TN
Laura L 11 1859 TN
John W. 8 1862 TN
Louisa 6 1864 TN
Elvira 4 1866 TN
Archibald 3/12 1870 TN
1880 Washington CO TN ? July 1880 District 13
SCALF, Jesse R. Head 45 1835 TN TN TN Wd
Laura L. Dau 19 1861 TN TN TN
John Son 17 1863 TN TN TN
Louisa Dau 15 1865 TN TN TN
Archibald Son 10 1870 TN TN TN
George Son 8 1872 TN TN TN
1900 Washington CO TN 11 June 1900 District 13
SCALF, Jesse R. Head 64 Aug 1835 TN VA TN
(Cox) Martha J. Wife 51 Apr 1849 TN TN TN
FORD, Lillie A. Niece 18 Aug 1881 TN TN TN
WILLIS, Sarah A. Niece 16 Dec 1883 TN TN TN
1910 Washington CO TN 9 April 1910 District 13
BOWERY, William B. Head 36 1874 TN TN TN
Lillie Wife 24 1886 TN TN TN 1 born, 1 lvg.
Jesse E. L. Son 6/12 1909 TN TN TN
SCALF, Jesse R. Uncle 77 1833 TN TN TN
SCALF, Martha J.
Aunt 60
1850 TN TN TN
(1910
Washington Co. TN, page 1) (1910
Washington Co. TN, page 2)
1920 Washington CO TN 8 & 9 January 1920 District 13
BOWERY, William B. Head 46 1874 TN TN TN
Lillie Wife 38 1882 &
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