On July 3, 1624, Mrs. Dorcas Foster was married at St.
Dunstan's Church, in Stepney, London, England to Bartholomew Hoskins of
Jamestown, Virginia and London, England. Dorcas Foster was described as a widow
with several small children. Bartholomew Hoskins, an ancient planter, was in
Virginia by 1616. He undoubtedly made a number of trips from Virginia and
England as he maintained a home in each location. On one of these trips back to
England he married Mrs. Dorcas Foster. The maiden name of Dorcas is yet unknown
as is the name of her Foster husband. Bartholomew and Dorcas made their home in
Elizabeth City, Lower Norfolk County, Virginia.
Source
: The Marriage Registers of St. Dunstan's Stepney in the County of Middlesex. Edited by Thomas Colver Ferguson, Vol.1 1568-1639
The Virginia Genealogist, Vol. 27, No. 2, p. 83
Note: Carraway-Foster-Williams(on) 1601 - 1706 misidentified the
wife of Bartholomew Hoskins as Ann Fossit (Foster)
A Richard Foster sailed from London on August 10, 1635 on
the ship Safety and arrived in Jamestown, Virginia that fall. He was
but sixteen years old; born in 1619-20. We find on that same ship were:
Bartholomew Hoskins, John Gloster (Foster), age 23, Robert Fister (Foster), age
20, Robert Piscer (possibly Foster), age 44, and Elizabeth Piscer (Foster), age
16. We make the assumption that the surnames, Piscer, and Fister were
misinterpreted because in subsequent documents the name Foster appears. Some
researchers have assumed that Elizabeth Foster was a twin sister to Richard and
that Robert Foster, age 20, was Richard's older brother. There is sufficient
information to make that assumption about Robert, but not about Elizabeth.
SOURCES
: Original List of Persons of Quality; Hotten, p. 122-3
Early Virginia Immigrants, 1623-1666, Greer
The Original List of Persons of Quality 1600-1700,
Hotton, p. 122
Bartholomew Hoskins, aged 35 years, came to Virginia on the Safety in 1635 (Hotten). As he was here in Dale's
time (1616), this must have been a return from a visit to England. He was a
vestryman of Lynhaven Parish in 1640, and member of the House of Burgesses for
Lower Norfolk County, October, 1649, March 1651-2, and November, 1654 (Henning)
SOURCE
: Abstracts of Virginia Land Patents, Vol. 1, Stanard. p. 311
Note: It has been established that Bartholonew Hoskins first came to Virginia before 1616, however we do not know when his wife, Dorcas first arrived. We know that Dorcas had "several" children. Could they have been Richard, Elizabeth, and Robert? We can assume that she did not leave them in England. Dorcas was born ca. 1601 in England as she was 34 in 1635. If the twenty-year-old Robert Foster, of the Safety, was her son, she must have been married ca
1615/16. She would have been young, but not too young to have born a child.
A Richard Foster (ffoster) received 300 acres of land granted in Lower
Norfolk, Virginia on May 22, 1637. His land was on the north side of the East
branch of the Elizabeth River. We must assume that this Richard Foster was not
the stepson of Bartholomew as he would not be of the age to own land; he being
only eighteen years old. We do not know when this Richard Foster of Lower
Norfolk County came to Virginia. We do know that he was born ca 1616 or before
and is later referred to as attorney.
SOURCE
: Cavaliers and Pioneers, Nugent; Vol. II, p. 156
Note: We now have two Richard Fosters in Lower Norfolk County,
Virginia by 1637. To keep them separate the Richard Foster of the Safety will be
designated (A) and the attorney (B). Richard Foster (B) will later marry Dorcas
Hoskins, daughter of Bartholomew and Dorcas Foster Hoskins. Consequently one
Richard Foster is a stepson (proof later) of Bartholomew Hoskins and one Richard
Foster, attorney, will become his son-in-law. Both are literate.
By this time Richard Foster (A) was ca.19 years of age and Richard Foster (B)
was ca. 22. Both are living in Lower Norfolk County. In 1638 Thomas Wallace
transported another Richard Foster (C) to Virginia for which he received a land
patent in James City County.
SOURCE
: Cavaliers and Pioneers, 1623-1666 Nugent; p. 94
Early Immigrants in Virginia, p. 118
Note:
This Richard Foster (C) is probably the Richard Foster that is illiterate.
SOURCE
: Colonial Records of Virginia, 1623-1666
Richard Foster (A) refers to Bartholomew Hoskins as his father (we know that
he is actually his step-father.) Richard was only a child when his biological
father died according to a deposition in the county in which he lived (Lower
Norfolk County.) March 2, 1639/40: "Richard Foster sayeth that his father
Bartholomew Hoskins did buy 200 acres of land of Henry Hawkins and Robert Taylor
for one cowe and calfe and two yearlings about five weeks before Christmas was
two years and that he gave sixpence in earnest of the said bargain to the said
Henry Hawkins."
SOURCES
: Lower Norfolk County, Virginia, Book A 1637-1646, Walters, p 12a; Carroway - Foster - Williamson and Bartholomew Hoskins 1601
1707: Alice Granberry Walter, p. 4
Richard Foster (A) made a deposition in Lower Norfolk County
SOURCE
: Lower Norfolk Minute Book 1637-1643, p. 27
Bartholomew Hoskins, gent. and wife of Elizabeth City are on a ship to sail
from England to Virginia.
SOURCE
: American Colonists in England
A Richard Foster married Ann Jackson. "Richard Foster and Anne, his wife were
married the 19th day of November 1640. Shee the said Anne as it is reported hath
deserved sic for child." Later references names Anne's name as Jackson.
SOURCE
: Lower Norfolk County Court Receipts, Book A 1637-1646, p. 64
Carraway-Foster-Williams(on) 1601 - 1706 "
Whereas it appeareth by bill that Richard Foster is indebted unto M…?.. Utie
the now wife of Richard Bennett, Exqr.: in the same (sum) sic 260 lb tobacco old
debt and 1 barrel of corne in satisfaction where he is hereby ordered by the 24
December next to make payment on the some of 114 lb of tobacco stript and smooth
otherwise execusion."
SOURCE
: Lower Norfolk County Book B, p.105
A Richard Foster is a debtor in Lower Norfolk County, Virginia.
SOURCE
: Lower Norfolk County Minutes Book A 1637 - 1643, pp. 82-83, 91, 98, 128
March 15, 1640/41: "Whereass it appears to this court by speciality that
Owine Hayes is indebted unto Richard Foster the quanity of 3 barrels of corne
and 20 1 tob script and smooth. It is therefore ordered that the said Owine
Hayes shall within 30 days make payment of the said corne and tobacco according
to the ….?… of this bill with charges of the Court otherwise executed to be
awarded."
SOURCE
: Lower Norfolk County Book A, p.105
Note: Which of these Richard Fosters? (A),
(B), or (C) married Anne Jackson? There is really no certain way of telling.
However, Richard Foster (B) will later marry Dorcas Hoskins. So knowing that Ann
Hoskins did not marry Richard Foster (B) this leaves Richard Foster (A) and (C)
for her husband. All indication points to her marriage to Richard Foster (C),
but there is no proof!
April 15, 1641: Richard Foster was still the husband of Anne Jackson Foster
who was in court charged with fornication. These charges were brought by an Ann
Gaskine. She charged that Anne had a child not conceived at home.
SOURCE: Lower Norfolk County Minutes Book 1637-1648, p. 98, Hoskins of Virginia and Related Families, Warner, p. 16
A Richard Foster met in Deposition.
SOURCE
: Lower Norfork County Minutes 163-1648
A Richard Foster was ordered to pay a debt in Lower Norfolk County, Virginia.
SOURCE
: Lower Norfolk County Wills and Deeds, 1637-1646, pp. 81, 87, 98, 138.
Dorcas Foster Hoskins was in England in 1641 for in that year she presented a
petition to the House of Lords "on behalf of her said husband now in Virginia -
that all proceedings in a suite commenced by John Carter and Joane his wife
against the said Bartholomew Hoskins may be stayed."
SOURCE: Hoskins of Virginia and Related Families, Warner, p.16
Note: After 1641 there is no longer a mention of Ann Jackson Foster
in the Lower Norfolk County records. Whether she died or she simply remained
married to Richard Foster and settled down we do not know. We do know that
Richard defended her vigorously at court and the woman who brought the charges
was given a sentence of 30 lashes.
A Richard Foster, creditor
SOURCE: Lower Norfolk County
Wills and Deeds, p. 117
A Richard Foster was a Debtor in Lower Norfolk County.
SOURCE
: Lower Norfolk County Minutes Book, 1637-1643, p. 175
A Richard Foster was Plantiff in Lower Norfolk County.
SOURCE
: Lower Norfolk County Wills and Deeds 1637-1643, p. 158
November 17, 1646: a Richard Worster (ffoster) is indebted unto James Warner
for 247 pounds of tobacco. Payment is ordered to be made.
SOURCE: Lower Norfolk County, Book B, p. 11
December 16, 1646: "The difference in suite between Mr. MATH PHILLIPPS,
plaintiff against ROGER WILLIAMSON and RICHARD FOSTER, defendants by consent, is
referred to the next court to bee heard and determined."
Note: Roger
Williamson was the first husband of Ann Foster, brother to Richard Foster
(A).
SOURCE: Lower Norfolk County, Book B, 1646-1751, p. 10a
December 16, 1646, "Paid to Richard Foster for the boyes keeping."
SOURCE: Lower Norfolk County, Deed Book, p. 19a
A Richard Foster is in debt to James Warner.
SOURCE:
Lower Norfolk County, Book B, 1646-1651, Walter, p. 27
Note: We know that Ann Foster Wiliamson (born 1620 and 43 years old
in 1663) and Richard Foster (A) are siblings of Dorcas Foster Hoskins and that
Roger Williamson, whom Ann married June 5, 1646, was her first husband. Who are
the Richard Fosters involved in the above transactions?
February 15, 1646/47: A Richard Worster (Foster) ordered to pay unto Arthur
Brown, Merchant: 347 1 tob.o and caske (?)
SOURCE: Lower
Norfolk County, Book B, and p. 27
August 16, 1647: at inquest concerning death of Jacob Bradshawe deceased
April 11, 1747; a Richard Foster is involved.
SOURCE: Lower
Norfolk County 1646-1661/62, Book B, p.50
August 16, 1647: "It was ordered that Richard ffoster, Owen Hayes, and
Isabell, his wife, Johyn Wacey, and Edmond Lindsay, als yoeman doe personaly
appears at the next Court to answer unto such matter as they bee demaunded."
SOURCE: Lower Norfolk County Will and Deed Book B, p. 51A
December 16, 1647: "Richard ffoster doth promise to deliver upon demand unto
Mr. Car: Lloyd Gent:……..one cowe…being at Linhaven at the plantation of Edward
Hall."
SOURCE: Lower Norfolk County, Book B, p. 59
Note: It is likely that the Richard involved in the investigation
into the death of Jacob Branshawe was a Richard Foster which will be designated
(C). He is presumed illiterate since he used a mark "W" on the document instead
of signing his name - both Richard Foster (A) and (B) are literate. Again we are
left with no indication which of the Richard Fosters is involved in the above
activities. The last entry on December 16, 1647 probably referred to Richard
Foster, (B) attorney?
A Richard Foster arrived in Virginia in 1648 transported by Bartholomew
Hoskins.
SOURCE: Early Virginia Emigrants, 1628-1648, p.
118 George C. Greer
A Richard Foster married Dorcas Hoskins around this date (give or take a few
years.) She was the daughter of Bartholomew and Dorcas Foster Hoskins. This is
not Richard Foster (A) as she (Dorcas) is his half-sister; consequently it must
have been Richard Foster (B), the attorney. January 1648: Bartholomew Hoskins
received a land patent of 1350 acres on the southside of Rappahanock River for
the transport of several persons, including "Richard Foster, 2 times";
SOURCE: Cavaliers and Pioneers, Patent Book 5, p.182
February 15, 1648: "Richard Foster (B), attorney of Richard Foster (A) to
deliver unto John Caraway who hath intermarried with the relict of Roger
Williamson, DEC's for the use of Sarah Williamson the cowe and all her increase
which was bequeathed until Sarah by Richard (A), the god-father of Sarah when he
went to England the said John Caraway (sic) in security for same."
SOURCE: Lower Norfolk County, 1646-1651, 106a
March 6, 1648: "400 acres Lower Norfolk County - Lying on the Nwd side of
Broad Creek being a branch of the Ewd branch of Elizabeth River sd land granted
to Henry Watson 10 June 1639 & by the relict of Watson assigned to Richard
Foster & by him assigned to Richard Day & Richard Woodman (or Woolman)
& 200 acres the residue due sd Woolman for trans. Of 4 persons & the
whole 400 acres purchased of Day & Woolman.:
SOURCE:
Lower Norfolk County Records, Alice Granberry Walter
June 15, 1648: "Richard Foster (A) att his going for England being ffive
years or thereabouts did give and bequeath unto Sarah Williamson daughter of
Roger Williamson one Cowe Calfe…..Richard Foster, attorney of Foster ordered to
give the cowe calfe & her increase to the child for her use. NOTE:
The attorney, Richard Foster (B) was the attorney for Richard Foster (A)
SOURCE: Lower Norfolk County 1646-1651/52, p.78
June 18, 1648: Richard Foster (B), attorney promises to deliver a Plantation
upon demand of Edward and Mrs. Car: Lloyd Hale
SOURCE:
Lower Norfolk County, Book B, p. 6
February 1647/48: Richard Foster's bell 0 6 0 0.
SOURCE:
Lower Norfolk County, Book B, p. 66
June 15, 1648: Richard Foster (A) "att his goeing for England being ffive
years or thereabouts did give and bequeath unto Sarah Williamson, daughter of
Roger Williamson one cow calf……Richard Foster (B), attorney of ffoster (A)
ordered to give cow calf and her increase to the child for her use……..Richard
Foster (A)."
SOURCE: Lower Norfolk County, Book B, p. 78
February 15, 1647/48: "Richard Foster (A) to look after David Neals bels of
215; 1 barrell from Richard Foster, next year."
SOURCE:
Lower Norfolk County, Book B, p. 67
Note: If it was Richard Foster
(B) who went to England in 1642 he was obviously back in Lower Norfolk County
serving as attorney to Richard Foster (A) who is preparing to go to England. It
is obvious that Richard Foster (B) who married Dorcas Hoskins, served as
attorney to Richard Foster (A) and that Dorcas Hoskins was a half-sister to
Richard (A). It is also clear that it was Richard Foster (A) who left for
England, as he is seen leaving a deed of gift (some say will?) to his niece,
Sarah Williamson with Richard Foster (B) acting as his attorney. Richard Foster
(A) and Richard Foster (B) are now one-half brother-in-laws. We will find later
that Richard Foster (A) did stay in England his full five years returning to
Virginia in 1654. We can now assume that the entries after Richard Foster (A)
left for England, are those of Richard Foster (B) and/or Richard Foster (C).
February 1, 1648/49: Richard Foster (B) "to pay Will: Shipp 500 1 tobo with
allowance for Caske….dur Specialty."
SOURCE: Lower Norfolk
County, Book B, and 106
February 15, 1648/49: "Richard Foster (B), attorney to deliver unto
John Carroway who hath intermarried with Relict of Roger Williams (on) sic dec'd
for use of Sarah Williamson the cowe and all of her increase which was
bequeathed unto Sarah by Richard Foster (A), the godfather of Sarah, when he
went to England. The said John Carroway putting in security for same."
SOURCE: Lower Norfolk County 1646-1652/3. Book B, p. 106a
April 9, 1649: James Warner was appointed Administrator of the estate of
Benjamin Foster who died in testate, leaving an estate.
SOURCE:
Lower Norfolk County 1646-1651/52
Benjamin's widow was Joane. She married a second time, Richard Yeats, August
31, 1649
SOURCE: Lower Norfolk County 1646-1651/2, pp.
123-124
June 15, 1649: Richard Foster (B) appointed Constable for the Eastern Shore
of Linhaven
SOURCE: Lower Norfolk County 1646-1651/52, p.
118
August 15, 1649: "It was ordered that Richard Foster, Joseph Burch, Abraham
Thomas, Thomas Wright and Lawrence Phillips, Constables shall take a list of
Tythable psons with in their limits and exhit the same unto the Court to bee
holden on the first of October next."
SOURCE: Lower Norfolk
County Wills and Deeds 1646-1651/52
November 30, 1649: "Upon mutual concent of Richard Foster (B) plt and John
Carroway deft. Certifyed to ye court by Mr.Tho.Lambert and Thomas Tooker…case
depending on next Court."
SOURCE: Lower Norfolk County,
Book B, and 130a
Richard Foster ordered to pay in Lower Norfolk County.
SOURCE: Lower Norfolk County Wills and Deeds 1646-1651/52,
p. 134
February 15, 1648/49: "Richard Foster (B) att of Richard Foster (A) to
deliver unto John Carroway which has intermarried with relict of Roger
Williamson, dec'd for use of Sarah Willamson the Cowe and all her increase which
was bequeathed unto Sarah by RICHD: the god-father of Sarah, when he went for
England. The said John Caraway putting in security for same."
SOURCE: Lower Norfolk County, Book B, p 106a
April 9, 1649: "James Warner was apptd. To be Adm of the estate of Benjamin
Foster, dec'd of Lower Norfolk County, Virginia. Benjamin's wife. Joane m 2nd
time to Richard Yeats."
SOURCE: Lower Norfolk County, Book
B, p.113
November 1, 1650: a Richard Foster received a certificate for a land patent
for the transportation of himself, his wife Dorcas Foster, Sr. and daughter,
Dorcas Foster, Jr. and a Richard Streete and Henry Williams.
SOURCE: Lower Norfolk County, Book B, p. 155 and Cavaliers
and Pioneers 1623-1666, p. 249
February 15, 1649/50: "The difference depending between Rich. Foster and John
Carroway is referred to ye next court of ye sd Foster in ye (interim?) shall
procure Mr: Jno: Meares in his oath that ye sd Meares had never had any dealings
with ye sd Foster but only 6 hhad (hogshead) of tobo. that was paid Mr. Marsh
for him at plunt point. (This might refer to Blunt Point on the South side of
the James River in Warwick County.)"
SOURCE: Lower Norfolk
County, Book B, p.134a
February 27, 1649/50 'Upon the Peticon of John Workman…..ordered the Rich.
Foster Constable, shall deliver unto ye sd Workman such clothing and other
things as he hath of his having been brought to him by an Indian Man……………"
SOURCE: Lower Norfolk County, Book B, and p.134a
February 27, 1649/50: Tobacco payd Richard Foster for bt……160 total debts amt
to 3804
SOURCE: Lower Norfolk County, Book A, p.139a
A Richard Foster…"also known as Richard ffoster in Lower Norfolk County,
Virginia."
SOURCE: Abstracts of Lower Norfolk County,
Charles F. McIntosh
July 8, 1650: Land patented to Ralph Greene, "Being a neck of land on the N.
side of York R. within Bennetts Crk. HR (Headright): Gilbert Mace, George
Turner, Mary Turner, Mary Foster, and Thomas Williams."
SOURCE: Records of Colonial Gloucester County, Virginia, p.
67
November 15, 1650:
Note: The top of this page is torn and the
following could be a will of deed of gift. "Unto Sarah Williams (on) sic…(cows
with descriptions)…until said Sarah arrives at the yeres of 16…….in case shee
should dye before shee is at age to owne cows them, that then they should be
equally divided amongst the rest of the children of Roger Williams(on) sic and
John Carraways that shall be livinge, Dated July 31, 1650. ….." witnessed by
Robert Eyre and Simond , S.H. Hancocke. Signed,( Richard Foster)
SOURCE:
Abstracts of Lower Norfolk County, Book B, p. 160 Note: We do not know who this
Benjamin Foster, who died in 1650, is or how or if he is related to Richard
Foster (A), (B) or (C). It now seems logical that the Richard Foster that went
to England in 1642 was Richard Foster (B) as we see that he received a
certificate for a land patent in 1650 for the transport of himself, wife,
Dorcas, and daughter, Dorcas, Jr. It is of little consequence; however, as we
have seen that Richard Foster (B) cannot be our immigrant. The remaining entries
in 1650 obviously involve Richard Foster (B), attorney or Richard Foster (C).
Who is this Mary Foster mentioned above?
Richard Foster (A) is in his third year in England. April 15, 1651: Thomas
Watkins received a certificate for land for paying the transportation of a
Sussan Foster from England to Virginia. A Richard Foster payed for the
transportation from England to Virginia, a Mary and Ellen Foster. April 29,
1651: "Bartholomew Hoskins of Elizabeth River….Planter have freely given and
delivered unto Henry Barlowe living in ye said river a cowe calf of a year old
which he hath marked." (Signed) Richard Foster (B)
SOURCE:
Lower Norfolk County, Book B, p. 178
June 1651, 1651: "To next Court" Richard Pinner agst Richard Foster to next
court (this is all that is written.)
CERTIFICATE: to Richard Foster (B) for
250 acres for transportation of himself, Dorcas Foster, his wife, Dorcas Foster,
his daughter, Richard Steete, and Henry Lewis."
SOURCE: Abstracts of Lower
Norfolk County Wills, p. 7
SOURCE: Lower Norfolk County,
Book B, p. 181
October 30, 1651: "Richard Foster (A) agst. Roger Williams (on) sic ordered
that ye land in question be equally divided between sd Foster and the children
of the wife of sd William (on) sic being orphans - by Richard Whitenshurst,
Richard Foster (B), John Chandler, Henry Nicholls, Mr.s, sic John Sidney and
William Mosely are requested to be there present and to be done by the 23
October 1651."
SOURCE: Lower Norfolk County, Book B, p.1881
October 30, 1651: Richard Foster ordered to pay unto John Martin 747 lbs.
tobacco and caske with "forbarence and court charges."
SOURCE: Lower Norfolk County, Book B, p.188a
Same court October 23, 1651: "At a peticon (petition) of Richard Water. John
Carroway ordered to pay his share of the debt due Richard Pinner as per order of
the last court."
SOURCE: Lower Norfolk County, Book B,
p.189a
"LEIFT THOMAS
LAMBERT appointed collector for ye Eastern and Southern Branches in Elizabeth
River from 104 tytheable psons at 65 p poll which amounts to………. To MR.
BARTHOLOMEW HOSKINS in full for Burgesses charges 1170 To Mr. Ffoster for
killing one woolfe." 0100
SOURCE: Lower Norfolk County,
Virginia, 2 November-15 January 1651/2, Walter, p. 200a
Note: These
entries and others which deal with legal matters in the year 1651 are assumed to
involve Richard Foster (B) as Richard Foster (A) is in England and Richard
Foster (C) is illiterate.
It is Richard Fosters (A) fourth year in England. We have no knowledge what
he is doing there, if he is married, if he having children, etc.
July 5,
1652: Thomas Watkins received land patent on Eastern Branch of the Elizabeth
River in Lower Norfolk County for the transport of Sussan Foster from England to
Virginia
SOURCE: Cavaliers and Pioneers
Richard Foster: collector of tithables in Lower Norfolk County
SOURCE: Lower Norfolk County Wills and Deeds 1651-1656,
p.12
Note: One would like to say that the Sussan (Garnett?) Foster
transported from England to Virginia by Thomas Watkins was the wife of Richard
Foster (A). However, all we can really say is that which is stated. If she was
the wife of Richard, why is someone else paying her passage to Virginia? Why is
she leaving Richard in England? (as he has another year to live there.) If she
is the wife of Richard Foster (A), does she have children? Were they left in
England or transported? Who are Mary and Ellen Foster transported from England
to America by a Richard Foster? Are these the children of Richard and Sussan
Foster? If so, then why are they leaving England on a separate ship than their
mother? Ship manifests do not give the ages of the passengers so we do not know
if Mary and Ellen are children or adults. All we can really say is that they are
transported by a Richard Foster that we cannot identify.
Richard Foster (A) is in his fifth and final year in England. In Lower
Norfolk County, Virginia a Richard Foster (B) is being called Captain Richard
Foster in some deeds and wills.
October 28, 1853/54: Deed. Dated October 28,
1652, "Richard Foster sells Wm. Warde 50 acres in Bennetts Creek and adj. SW on
land which did belong to William Est and now belongs to John Stratton the son of
John Stratton, and is part of land belonging to James Sterling." (Signed)
Richard (X ) Foster Wit. James Sterling
SOURCE: Virginia
Colonial Abstracts, Lower Norfolk County 1641-1654, p. 466
November 26, 1653: a Richard Foster received a land patent 250 acres in
Linnhaven Parish in Lower Norfolk County. Virginia at the head of the Broad
Creek runing s.s.w. near a swamp thence w.n.w. etc. for the transport of
himself, his wife, Dorcas, and his daughter, Dorcas, Jr.
SOURCE: Lower Norfolk Wills and Deeds, Book C 1651-1656, p.
12a
The same year, 1653, Richard Foster is a member of the House of Burgesses
SOURCE: Journals of House of Burgesses 1619-1659, pp. 33,
99, 415.
July 5, 1653: Thomas Watkins received 50 acres lying in the Eastern Branch of
the Elizabeth River……….(Patient Book 3, p.24) for the transport of Sussan Foster
SOURCE: Cavaliers and Pioneers, 1623-1666, Nugent, p. 239
Note: If Richard Foster (A) is still in England in 1653, and we have
no reason to believe that he is not, then the Captain Richard Foster who is a
member of the House of Burgesses cannot be Richard Foster (A) as is believed by
some Foster researchers.) Could he be the illiterate Richard Foster (C)? I don't
think so! Is he the son-in-law of Bartholomew Hoskins, Richard Foster (B)? Most
likely he was. We see on November 26 that Richard Foster (B) received a land
patent for the transport of himself, his wife, and daughter. When did they go to
England? Did he marry Dorcas Hoskins in Virginia or in England? He wasn't away
from Virginia long enough to marry and have a daughter in England, so we must
assume he married in Virginia and either had his daughter, Dorcas, Jr. in
Virginia or in England (maybe he took his pregnant wife to England for better
child birth care)?
Richard Foster (A) sailed from Bristol, England destination Virginia. He has spent five years in England and is now back in Lower Norfolk County, Virginia. SOURCE: Carroway-Foster-Williams (on) and Bartholomew Hoskins, 1601-1706, Watkins and Bristol/Bristol and America, Reprinted in 1967
March 25, 1653/54: A Richard Foster sold 50 acres on Bennetts Creek in Lower
Norfolk County, Virginia. He signed with an "X".
SOURCE:
Virginia Colonial Abstracts; Fleet, Vol. III, p 466
Richard Foster was called a Land Owner in Lower Norfolk County, Virginia.
SOURCE: Lower Norfolk County Wills and Deeds 1651-1656,
p.114
Richard Foster, Juror, Lower Norfolk County, Virginia
SOURCE: Lower Norfolk County Wills and Deeds 1651-1656,
p.114
December 4, 1654, Edward Simpson received land, "300 acs. adjoining his land,
Ashwell Battern and Leo. Chamberlaine on Pepetico Creek, HR: Robert Foster
SOURCE: Records of Colonial Gloucester County, Virginia, p.
67
Note: Are we to assume that the Richard Foster that signed his
name with an "X" is either Richard Foster (C) or a fourth Richard Foster (D) in
Lower Norfolk County and must then join the list of Richards who could be our
immigrant? Now, since we know that both Richard (A) and (B) are literate we have
an urge to disregard (C) and/or (D) as possible candidates - should we? We also
must assume that the Richard Foster who sailed from England to Virginia was
Richard Foster (A). Do we really know that? No, but likely it was him. How who
is this Robert Foster mentioned above?
April 1, 1655: A Richard Foster received a land patent on head of the
Southard Creek in Severne, in Mockjack Bay (Abbingdon Parish, Gloucester Co.,
Virginia.) Source: Cavaliers and Pioneers Book 5, p. 490 Land to Richard Foster,
"On the head of the southward creek in Severne R. of Mockjack Bay, on Coll:
Lundlows line. HR: Ellen Foster, Mary Foster, Sarah Davis, Robert Bynam, Fran.
Bignall. Land due for last. Renewal."
SOURCE: Virginia Land
Patents of the Counties of Norfolk, Princess Anne, & Warwick, Books O-G
1666-1679, Walters, p. 64 Records of Colonial Gloucester County, Virginia, p. 67
Note: This entry is most critical in determining our immigrant. Is
Richard Foster (A) selling his land in Lower Norfolk County and moving to
Gloucester County or is the Richard Foster living in Gloucester County an
entirely new Richard Foster (E)? It is interesting that George Ludlow must have
known both Richard Fosters in Lower Norfolk County and that he bought land in
Gloucester close to another Richard Foster. Are (A) and (E) the same? It seems
too coincidental that old George would known three Richard Fosters in that day
and time. Who knows? It is certainly possible and doesn't prove or disprove a
thing. In addition, who are Ellen and Mary Foster and who/which Richard Foster
paid for their passage? He lived on the head of the southward Creek in Severne
River where we find Richard Foster (C)
Richard Foster is a Member of the House of Burgesses Jamestown
SOURCE: Journal of the House of Burgesses 1619-1659, H.R:
(Headright) McIlwayne, Ed., p. 99
Richard Foster appraised an Estate in Lower Norfolk County.
SOURCE: Lower Norfolk County Wills and Deeds 1651-1656,
p.146
Note: Again, it is critical to identify the above Richard
Fosters. It is most likely that the Richard who is a member of the House of
Burgesses is Richard Foster (B). Did (B) also appraise the estate? We have no
way of knowing if these are the same Richards. If these are (A) and (B), then
the Richard Foster who patented land in Gloucester County is (E) and possibly
ours as we know that both John and Robert Foster (sons of our immigrant) were
"of Gloucester County".)
Richard Foster (B) member of the House of Burgesses from Lower Norfolk Co.,
VA
SOURCE: Journals of the House of Burgesses 119-1659, p.
33
Richard Foster (B) called Capt. Richard Foster was a member of the House of
Burgesses, Lower Norfolk County, Virginia.
SOURCE: The
Statutes at Large, Vol. 1, p. 414
Captain Richard Foster (B) Present at the General Assembly, Jamestown.
SOURCE: The Statutes at Large, Henning, Vol.1, p. 414
Richard Foster (B), Commissioner (Justice of the Peace) in Lower Norfolk
County, Virginia.
SOURCE: Lower Norfolk County Wills and
Deeds 1651-1656, pp. 1,42, 44, 557, 64, 170, and 225.
Richard Foster (B) Present in Court in Lower Norfolk County
SOURCE: Lower Norfolk County Wills and Deeds 165-1656, p.
217
Note: Are we to assume that these entries involve only Richard
Foster (B). If so, where is Richard Foster (A)? If we assume that both Richard
Fosters participate in the above entries, then the Richard Foster in Gloucester
County is Richard Foster (E).
Richard Foster, Sheriff in Lower Norfolk County
SOURCE:
Lower Norfolk County Wills and Deeds 1656-1666, p.72
Richard Foster, High Sheriff of Lower Norfolk County p. ?
SOURCE: Lower Norfolk County Wills and Deeds 1656-1666
Richard Foster, Commissioner (Justice of the Peace)
SOURCE
Wills Lower Norfolk County and Deeds 1656-1666, p. 72
Note:
This is critical! Are both of these Richard Fosters (B) or is one of them
Richard Foster (A). If they are not the same then, our Richard (E) is probably
on his plantation in Gloucester County. If they are the same, then Richard (A)
could be the Richard on the plantation in Gloucester County. Can the same man be
Sheriff, High Sheriff, and Commissioner at the same time or in the same year?
Richard Foster: Member of House of Burgesses
SOURCE: The
General Assembly of Virginia, 1619-1678
Richard Foster, Commissioner in Lower Norfolk County.
SOURCE: Lower Norfolk County Wills and Deeds, 1656-1666,
p.197
Richard Foster petitioned the Court in Lower Norfolk County.
SOURCE: Lower Norfolk County Wills and Deeds 1656-1666, p.
70
Richard Foster, Commissioner in Lower Norfolk County; Judgement for Lower
Norfolk County.
SOURCE: Lower Norfolk County Wills and
Deeds 1656-1666, pp.143, 147, 166, 183, 190, and 199
Richard Foster was involved in a Court Case.
SOURCE:
Lower Norfolk County Wills and Deeds 1656-1666, p.152
Richard Foster was a Member of the House of Burgesses
SOURCE: Journal of the House of Burgesses
August 31, 1658: Land to Ralph Green, "On N side of York R., from Jones Crk
to creek dividing……………….HR:…….Geo. Foster
SOURCE: Records
of Colonial Gloucester County, Virginia, p.67
Note: Again, are these
the same Richard Fosters? Who is this George Foster?
Richard Foster Commissioner in Lower Norfolk County. Judgement for Lower
Norfolk County
SOURCE: Lower Norfolk County Wills and Deeds
1656-1666, p. 210, 223, 234
Richard Foster appraised an estate in Lower Norfolk County
SOURCE: Lower Norfolk Wills and Deeds 1656-1666, p. 217
Note: Are these the same Richard Fosters or are they (A) and (B)?
Richard Foster, Commissioner, Lower Norfolk County
SOURCE:
Lower Norfolk County Wills and Deeds 1556-1666, p. 264
"Margaret Foster and Richard Foster, yeoman, bound to Thomas Willis, mariner,
to serve 4 years in Virginia."
SOURCE: The Complete Book of
Emigrants 1607-1660, Coldham, p. 463
Note: Here we have another
Richard Foster, however, can he be discounted from being our ancestor?
March 18, 1662, Richard Foster (A) or (E) renewed his patent on the Southern
Creek on Mockjack Bay, Gloucester County. March 18, 1662 Richard Foster (B)
renewed the patent on his land of 250 acres in Linhaven Parish, Lower Norfolk
Co., Virginia. Renewal of patent dated 25 November 1653
SOURCE: Cavaliers and Pioneers, Patent Book 1, Part 1, p.
473
"Robert Coleman, 110 acs. Gloster "sic" March 18, 1662. On main branch of
Burnts Creek……..land runing N.W. by N. & to Richard Foster land then ……………".
SOURCE: Cavaliers and Pioneers 1623-1666, p. 508
October 28, 1672: BARTHEW: WILLIAMSON 110 acres in Lower Norfolk County
according to the antient (sic) lawful bounds formally granted to Robert Worster
(Foster?) and is lately found to escheat &c…….(this name should be Ffoster.
It has been found in other records spelled this same way)
Note:
there is on patent to Richard Worster in Nugent however there are several to
RICHARD FOSTER
Note: A Richard Foster renewed his patent on land on Southern
Creek on Mockjack Bay in Gloucester County, Virginia the same day that Richard
Foster (A) was renewing his patent on land in Linhaven Parish, Lower Norfolk
County, Virginia. Is there something significant about both patents being
renewed on the same day? Did they know each other? Were they kinfolk? If the
Richard Foster who patented land in Gloucester County was Richard Foster (A)
then the two men were brothers-in-law as Richard Foster (B) is married to
Richard Fosters (A) half sister, Dorcas Hoskins. If the Richard Foster who
patented the land in Gloucester County is Richard Foster (E) could not they
still be kin even though we have no records to indicate such? If they are not
kin does it have any bearing on his being our immigrant? Who is this Robert
Foster. Could it be the son of our Richard. If so then Robert had to be born in
1651 or prior to this date. This makes Robert at least 21 years old - old enough
to patent land on his own.
Richard Foster (B) and his wife Dorcas Hoskins Foster of Lower Norfolk County
moved with Dorcas' brother, Bartholomew Hoskins, Jr. to Albermarle County, North
Carolina (present day Carrituck County). Bartholomew Hoskins, Sr. is dead by
this time. This land in Old Albermarle County is just across the state line
adjacent to Lower Norfolk County. So they were not moving far. They were in
North Carolina on March 24, 1662/63.
Richard Foster (B), son-in-law of
Bartholomew Hoskins, was called Major Foster in North Carolina. He was a
Councilman in Albermarle County.
SOURCE: Old Albermarle County, North
Carolina Miscellaneous Records 1678 - 1737, Weynette Parks Haun
April 22, 1663: 'Endorsed September 7, 1683 - an Indenture made 22 April 1663
between Thomas Willoughby, Lemuell Mason and Richard Foster in Lower Norfolk
County…..we the said partyes Covneated, concluded and agree with the other
mutually that we will settle a plantation to the southward upon a certaine tract
of land which goes by the name of WHITE's ISLAND and another piece of land right
over the western end of the afsd Whites Island (inniconed?) which marsh called
WALNUT NECK wherein each of us have an equal share and proportional Right
and….?….proportional charge boath for building and stock boath in Catl &
hoggs for profitt and cost till such time as it bee further concluded
between."
Us……………….
Wit: Richard Thompson Tho. Willoughby
Warner
Eth….?… Lem Mason
Richard Foster
Note: If Richard Foster (B) has gone to North
Carolina and Richard Foster (A) or (C) is in Gloucester County, then who is this
Richard Foster?
March 18, 1672/73: On swamp dividing this land of Daniel Clark and Richard
Foster.
SOURCE: Records of Colonial Gloucester County,
Virginia; Mason, p. 34
October 28, 1672: "Bartholomew Williamson (son of Ann Foster Williamson
Carroway, sister of Richard Foster (A) received land of Robert Foster that is
escheat."
SOURCE: Cavaliers and Pioneers, Nugent
There
could be found no significant records in Lower Norfolk County.
Note:
If this is the Robert Foster of the 1635 Safety, could it then signify a
relationship between Richard, Robert, and Elizabeth - brothers and sister? This
leaves us little doubt that the Captain Richard Foster of Lower Norfolk County
is the Major Richard Foster that we fine in Old Albermarle Co., North Carolina.
Richard Foster is found on the Rent Rolls of 1704 as being in Abbingdon
Parish, Gloucester Co., Virginia
James Foster is found on the Rent Rolls as
being in Kingston Parish, across from Mockjack Bay.
Also on the 1704 Rent
Rolls we find Robert and John Foster, sons of the immigrant in Essex County.
Note: If this is the same James Foster that
some think is the father of Robert, John, Richard, and James Foster (?), he
would certainly be an old man. This is probably James Foster, son of Robert
Foster, who is the son of our immigrant for on December 12, 1718: James Foster,
Sr. of St. Anne's Parish, Essex County, to William Taylor of same. For 2000
pounds of tobacco. 75 acres on the north side of Gilson's Run….line of John
Foster by the last will of Robert Foster….part of 200 acres purchased by Robert
foster of Mr. John Baker deceased out of a tract commonly known by the name of
Button's Range.
James Foster
Wit.: Rob. Charlesworth, Elizabeth (X)
Charlesworth.
16 Dec. 1718. Acknowledge by James Foster
Note: If this is Richard Foster, son of our immigrant Foster then he is ca. 85. It is more likely that this is Richard Foster, Jr. son of Richard Foster, Sr. that we alluded to earlier.
There seems to be four significant Richard Fosters in Lower Norfolk County, Virginia during the critical period for determining our immigrant, Richard Foster. Two of these are illiterate. Can they be eliminated? Yes?, No? Why? I do think that we can eliminate Richard Foster (B) as he is clearly the son-in-law of Bartholomew and Dorcas Foster Hoskins and it is he who was a member of the House of Burgesses in Lower Norfolk County. It is also this Richard Foster who was, Commissioner- --- sheriff, I don't know! Could it be that Richard Foster (A) was our immigrant? If so, he would have married (Sussan Garnett, we are told), gone to England for five years and, we assume sired babies in Virginia and in England. We find no transport records of the known children of our immigrant, i.e., Richard, Robert, and John. He could have had them in Virginia, of course. Who are Mary and Ellen Foster transported by a Richard Foster? Are they daughters of our immigrant? After Richard Foster (A) returned from England he and his family would have moved to Gloucester County and continued their lives and raised their families. Both died on this plantation? How many children did they have? We do not know. Robert, Richard, John, James and most certainly some daughters. Our immigrant, Richard Foster may have never lived in Lower Norfolk County, Virginia. He could be Richard Foster (E) who patented the land in Gloucester County, Virginia after arriving in Virginia, a date of which we do not know.
Since Richard Foster (E) is a viable choice for our immigrant we must
turn our attention to him and trace his immigration and migration, if possible.
When and at what age Richard Foster (E) immigrated to Virginia, we do not know.
It is through his association with other families that we get a sense of his
age. It was quite common in colonial days and in the days of the great migration
from Virginia that families lived in close proximity with close friends and/or
relatives. We find this is true with the Fosters, Colemans, and Garnetts.
Consider the following. Robert Coleman was named as head right in a grant to
Thomas Symons, by grant dated, March 2, 1638.
SOURCE:
Gloucester County Patent Book I, Part II, p. 830.
It is established that Robert Coleman was
settled in Gloucester County in 1658, for by deed dated August 2, 1658, Francis
Carpenter conveyed a tract of land in Weastmorland County to "Robert Coleman of
Monjack, sic Gloucester County" Thereafter he acquired by grant a tract of land
on Burnt Creek in Gloucester County, adjoining Daniel Clark, Richard Foster and
another development of his own. The grant is dated March 18, 1662.
SOURCE: Westmoreland County Deed and Will Book 1, p. 830
and Patent Book 5, p. 352
March
18, 1672: Robert Coleman land: "On a swamp dividing this land of Daniel Clark
& Richard Foster."
SOURCE: Cavaliers and
Pioneers, p. 508
Consider the
following: Richard Foster and Robert Coleman had lived as near neighbors for a
decade. It is likely to assume they were friends and probably went to the same
church. There is no evidence for this, of course. Calculations and a leap of
faith have Richard Foster being born ca. 1620. Robert Coleman's death as been
calculated to be ca 1680, then his birth date could be close to that of Richard
Foster. If so he was 60 years old when he died. I believe that Robert Coleman
and Richard Foster were near in age with Robert Coleman being a little older
(don't ask me why I just have a feeling). We know by 1692 that Robert Coleman,
Sr. is dead and most likely Richard Foster. If he was still alive he would have
been 72 years old. I believe that Richard Foster was either dead by1692 or he
moved with his sons, Robert, and John from Gloucester County to Essex County by
1692. September 7, 1692: DEED - John Baker to Robert Foster - 1672; John Baker
of Kingston Parish, Gloucester County sold to Robert Foster of same Parish and
County, 200 acres (part of Button's Range). This tells us that Robert Foster
moved to Gloucester County earlier than September 1692 as he is said to be "of
same Parish and County" as John Baker which is Kingston Parish, Gloucester
County, Virginia. There is a similar deed for John Foster, Robert's brother.
Also in 1692 we find: POWER OF ATTORNEY - Robert Yard to Robert Coleman (this
has to be Junior) - Robert Yard of Gloucester County appoints Robert Coleman of
Essex County his true and lawful Attorney.
SOURCE: Records of Colonial Gloucester County; Mason, p.
143
We see from these documents that both of the Foster brother and Robert Coleman, Jr. have moved from Gloucester County to Essex County. It seems most likely that the fathers, Richard Foster and Robert Coleman, Sr. were friends. Certainly their sons, Robert Coleman, Jr. and Robert and John Foster were. They all have removed from Gloucester County to Essex at approximately the same time. Robert Coleman, Jr. died in 1713 and Robert Foster died in 1716.
Another family that we find in close association with this Richard Foster was the Garnett family. Thomas Garnett was the first of his line to come to Virginia. He was an ancient planter that survived the Indian massacre in 1622 and was present for the first muster in 1623. Present, also were: his wife, Elizabeth, and their three year old daughter, Sussan. Tradition has our immigrant marrying into this Garnett family while in Gloucester County. Thomas had patented 200 acres of land for the transport of four persons (we do not know who they were). We do not hear from this family again in the patent and wills book of Gloucester County, which are available. Most of the books of Gloucester County were burned during the Civil War.
It has been accepted by most Foster researchers that Robert Foster, son of Richard and Sussan Garnett Foster married an Elizabeth Garnett. In his will of 1715/16 he names his wife, Elizabeth (no family name) and even though he wills the plantation on which he lives, to his first son, Robert Foster, Jr., he provides for Elizabeth, Robert Jr's mother, to remain on the plantation. Thomas, Sr. another son of Robert Foster acknowledges that the Elizabeth in the will was his mother. He gave his mother, who was now married to Robert Charlesworth and living on his land, a gift of deed to the land on which they were then living. In the deed he states that Elizabeth was his mother. I mention this as there are so many researchers still using the wife (Sara Biggs) given Robert Foster, Sr. by Mrs. Lane in her research. I have found no documentation that he married a Sarah Biggs, or even Elizabeth Garnett. However, he had a better chance of marrying a Garnett in Gloucester County than in Lower Norfolk County. There were Biggs in Gloucester County at the same time as there were Garnetts. Read the will of Robert Foster, Sr. carefully - it is most difficult.
The Garnetts of Virginia do not recognize Thomas Garnett as
their ancestor or even a close relation. They state, "The earliest Garnett from
whom descent at this time can be traced is John Garnett to whom under date of
April 16, 1673 the governor, Thomas Lord Culpeper, issued a grant of 260 acres
of land lying on the south side of Garden Creek in Gloucester County, between
lands of John Smither and John Diggs."
SOURCE: Gloucester County Record Book
7, p. 239
John Garnett had two sons that lived to maturity, John, Jr. and Thomas. Anthony died while still young.
John Garnett, Jr. the eldest son of John Garnett, Sr. lived in Kingston
Parish, Gloucester County, Virginia. Shortly after the birth of his first son,
James in 1692, he moved to St. Anne's Parish, in Essex County, where we find his
name as a witness to deeds in 1703 and 1710. The land that he bought was a part
of Button's Range and was adjacent to the 200 acres each bought by Robert and
John Foster, brothers. Button's Range was subdivided in 1789. John Garnett and
the Foster brothers bought their land in 1692 (some say that John Foster bought
his in 1709 and is not even a brother.)
SOURCE: Gloucester Records from
Other Virginia Counties, pp.? SOURCE: Essex Deed Book No. 14, p. 109 Thomas
Garnett, of St Anne's Parish, Essex, planter, is described as "one of the sons
and devisees of John Garnett late of the Parish of Kingston in the County of
Gloucester".
SOURCE: Essex Deed Book No. 13, p. 225
We now have the sons of Richard Foster, the sons of John Garnett, and the son
of Robert Coleman, Sr. all moving to Essex County, Virginia at about the same
time, 1692. For two generations the Foster, Garnetts, and Colemans had been
close friends. June 8, 1709: "Bond of Thomas Garnett of St. Anne's Parish, Essex
County, to John Foster of same, planter. For 7000 pounds of tobacco. To fulfill
conditions of deed. Signed (Thomas Garnett)"
SOURCE: Essex County Records,
1717 - 1731, Dorman, p?
February 13, 1719: "John Foster, Jr. of St. Anne's Parish, Essex County to
Robert Charlesworth of same. For 4000 pounds of tobacco. 125 acres in said
Parish on south side of Gilson's Run…..Corner tree of John Foster….bequeathed
unto the said John Foster by the last will of Robert Foster, Sr. dec'd and is
part of 200 acres purchased by the said Robert Foster off Mr. John Baker, dec.,
out of a tract commonly known by the name of Button's Range." Robert
Charlesworth, you will remember, married Elizabeth Foster after the death of her
husband, Robert in 1715/16.
SOURCE: Essex County Records, 1717 - 1731,
Dorman, pp. 156-59
May 20, 1720: "John Ridgdails of St. Anne's Parish, Essex County, to Robert Foster of same. For 850 pounds of tobacco." This is Robert Foster, Jr. as his father, Robert Foster, Sr. died in 1715/16
1741: Thomas Foster, son of John, son of Robert and (Sussan Garnett?) married Ann Garnett, daughter of Thomas Garnett (son of John, the immigrant) and Elizabeth Muscoe
May 13, 1743: "It is ordered Robert Coleman, Jr. be overseer of road from the
County line by Wm. Riddle's to the fork of the road by Jno. Beasley's and the
Church road to the Church bridge and half the bridge from thence unto the road
down the creek to the county line. Andrew Lyons, Harry Annomy, Charles Hart,
Rowld, Thomas, Robert Foster, Robert Coleman……." SOURCE: Virginia County
Records, Vol.1; Crozier. P.178 June 4, 1745: Robert Coleman and Sarah, his wife
of St. George Parish, Spotsylavnia County, Virginia to Thomas Foster, Surgeon of
Parish and County afsd L50 curr. 400 acres. (Signed) A(nthony) Foster, John
Gordon, Jno Parish." Anthony, Thomas, and John Foster are sons of Robert Foster,
and grandsons of the immigrant.
SOURCE: Virginia County Records, Vol. 1;
Crozier. P. 297?
1760: Anthony Foster, Jr. son of Anthony Foster and Martha (Taliaferro?), son of Robert and Elizabeth (Garnett?) married in Fairfax County, Virginia to Rose Coleman.
We could go on and on, but we see that there was a close relationship between the Foster, Coleman, and Garnett family. They married each other, they moved with each other. One researched suggested that our Richard Foster, our immigrant, was one of the headrights of the first Thomas Garnett. He certainly would have been acquainted with Sussan Garnett. However this is simply speculation.
I hope I have not left you completely confused. You must read and reread this treaties and then come up with the answer to our "Elusive Immigrant".
Dr. B.G."Bill" Foster 903-839-1036
2130 Santa Fe Trail
Tyler, TX
75703
bfoster@prodigy.net or tehg75a@prodigy.com