Van Gundy Family Tree


Col John PURVIS [Parents] was born in 1755 in Culpeper Co, VA. He died before May 1777 in PA, probably. He married Eliza Ann Pritchard about 1775.

There is a mix-up in John's family and ancestors. The lineage posted is from local IL Purvis family records but genealogists are saying that the John Purvis who married Eliza Pritchard was born in Scotland, abt 1746, died 5/11/1792 in Edgefield, SC, served as Lt Col in SC Militia and had 6 children.

Residences & events:

Culpeper Co, VA. He was married by the time the Am Revolution began and he enlisted early, serving in the same company as brothers, James and William as a Private.

Some researchers say he was born 1746 in Scotland, immigrated to Charleston, SC in 1765.

During the Revolutionary War, his unit of the Continental Line had been involved in the fighting around Philadelphia and Capt Taylor's company muster for 5/1777 listed him as dead. Brother, William, served in the same unit.

Eliza Ann Pritchard [Parents] was born on 14 Jun 1757 in Charleston, Charleston Co, SC. She died in 1792 in Edgefield, Edgefield Co, SC. She married Col John PURVIS about 1775.

This may not be the right wife for John as Eliza Pritchard married "Col" John Purvis and as far as we know, this John joined and died as a Private.

They had the following children:

  M i William PURVIS.

This child may not belong to this family or died in early childhood.
  M ii John PURVIS was born in 1777. He died in Jan 1833.

Thomas GINN [Parents] was born about 1757. He died after 1820.

The children listed below may or may not belong to Thomas.

Residences & events:

Ireland

Culpeper Co, VA

1790s Mason Co, KY

6/10/1800 His name was included in the county tax list, along with William, James, and Laurence Ginn.

1810 Shelby Co, KY. He had moved the family farther west but was still 2 counties east of James who was in Nelson Co.

1820 Bracken Co, KY. Apparently the family had been forced to move back east, either because of Indians or the harsh frontier. At census time they were all in neighboring counties on the Ohio River. Also living in Bracken was James and William.

He had the following children:

  F i Sarah GINN was born in 1777/1780. She died after 1833.
  F ii Female GINN.
  M iii John GINN was born in 1807. He died in 1874.
  F iv Jane GINN was born in 1810 in Ireland. She died in 1871 in Moultrie Co, IL.

In the 1860 census, Jane had been living with her brother, John, but
died the same year. The census said she was insane.

She died of "conjestion."

Isaac PURVIS [Parents] was born in 1802 in Mason/Fleming Co, KY. He died about 1845 in Shelby/Moultrie Co, IL. He married Mary Smith on 22 Jan 1829 in Sangamon Co, IL.

Residences & events in his life:

1826 Sangamon Co, IL. He served in the Winnebago Indian War in Capt Thompson's Co of Col Neale's detachment of IL Mounted Riflemen. In the same unit was brother, John G.

2/22/1830 Springfield, Sangamon Co, IL. Voting at the courthouse were Isaac, his father, and brothers, William and Thomas.

3/1830 Sangamon Co, IL. Isaac and brothers, James and John G, were among those signing a petition to fill the vacancy of Constable.

1830 He was the only Purvis left in the county by census time. Living in the same county were John Bracken and both John M Berry and John Ooley, relatives of Eliza Purvis Powell.

1831 E Nelson Twp, Shelby Co, IL. The county history recorded his arrival in the county on this date.

11/29/1836 Isaac was a resident of Shelby Co when he bought 40 acres in Moultrie Co at S9 T13N during a federal sale, paying $1.25/acre.

1840 Shelby Co, IL. At census time he was 30-40 years old with 2 males under 5, 2 males 5-10, 2 females under 5, and his wife, also 30-40, living in his house. Neighbors were the families of siblings, Jeremiah Standifer, Mahalia Purvis and George Purvis, living in a row, one after the other.

1841-3 Shelby Co, IL. He and several brothers were named in probate records as purchasers at several estate sales during these years.

1848 Sangamon Co, IL. He was named in a guardian's case file, particulars unknown, but he probably left minor children when he died.

Mary Smith.Mary married Isaac PURVIS on 22 Jan 1829 in Sangamon Co, IL.

They had the following children:

  M i Marian PURVIS.
  M ii George Washington PURVIS was born on 4 Apr 1827. He died on 17 Mar 1908.
  M iii Elijah Iles Purvis was born on 5 Apr 1829. He died on 23 Sep 1923.
  M iv John PURVIS was born in 1831. He died on 17 Jul 1885.
  F v Ruth PURVIS was born in 1835.
  M vi Smith PURVIS was born in 1836 in Shelby Co, IL.

Residences & events:

Chatham, Sangamon Co, IL. He was a farmer there before the Civil War started.

8/21/1861 He enlisted in Co A 3rd IL Cav as a Pvt.

11/1/1861 He was promoted to Sgt. While his regiment was in TN, he usually performed the dutes of wagon-master.

12/1863-2/1864 He was sent back to IL on recruiting duty.

9/5/1864 Springfield, IL. He mustered out as Sgt. and returned home.

During the war he was mentioned in letters among the McPheeters family, who were neighbors and family friends:

12/13/1863: "Smith Purvis is at home recruiting."

1/4/1864: "Smith Purvis is also here recruiting-has got several in Sangamon County."
  F vii Sarah PURVIS was born in 1838.
  M viii Isaac C PURVIS was born in 1843.

Thomas Melvin PURVIS [Parents] was born on 3 Jan 1803 in Mason/Fleming Co, KY. He died about Feb 1852 in E Nelson Twp, Moultrie Co, IL. He married Cynthia Thomas on 8 Apr 1823 in Bath Co, KY, probably.

Other marriages:
Waller, Sarah "Sally" STANDERFER

Residences & events:

1/22/1827 Sangamon Co, IL. His name was found in early probate records in connection with the James Twaddle estate as a buyer at the sale of personal goods.

2/22/1830 Springfield, Sangamon Co, IL. Thomas, along with his father and brothers, William and Isaac, voted at the courthouse.

1830 Shelby Co, IL. He was listed among the county's first settlers, exact date not given
He was counted in the 4th Prect at census time, he and brother, John, being the only Purvises listed in the county. Those living in his household were 2 males under 5, 2 males 20-30, 2 females 5-10, and 1 female 20-30. One brother, probably James, was living with him at that time.

3/22/1836 Thomas started buying land from federal land sales, beginning with 80 acres in Moultrie Co at S3 T13N for $1.25/acre. He was still living in Shelby Co at that time.

5/31/1836 He bought another 79.61 acres in Moultrie at the same location, for the same $1.25/acre.

7/25/1836 His residence was still Shelby Co when he bought more Moultrie Co federal land, this time 39.81 acres at the same coordinates, again at $1.25/acre.

1/10/1837 He added to his estate in Moultrie Co by buying 40 more acres from a federal sale, still at $1.25/acre. Still he lived in Shelby Co.

3/6/1837 Julian, Shelby Co, IL. Thomas laid out a small village in S3 T13N R6E with 80x60' lots, 60' wide streets and 16' alleys. There he built a horse mill in response to the need of settlers living on the west side of the Okaw river, who were compelled to swim the river to get their milling done at East Nelson. Thomas also operated a tavern or inn there. Family tradition says that the tavern was a relay point where horses were changed on the stage road between Charleston and Springfield. Also according to tradition, Thomas' family and Abe Lincoln were long time friends. Son, James, was said to have sat on Abraham's lap when he came through on the stage.

2/19/1838 Enlarging his property limits, he bought 40 acres at a school sale in Moultrie Co for $2.01/acre, located at S16 13N.

8/10/1838 Shelby Co, IL. Thomas obtained his first real estate in the county of his residence by patent. On the same date, brothers, George, William, and John, all received land too.

12/29/1838 He appeared as a witness in a court suit between James Elder vs Jonathan Dasey.

1840 Shelby Co, IL. In the census he and his wife were 30-40 years old and their family consisted of 1 male under 5, 1 male 5-10, 1 male 10-15, 2 females 5-10, and 2 females 15-20. Two doors down was brother-in-law, John Golesby.

1/31/1843 Shelby Co, Il. According to probate records, he, along with several brothers, were among the purchasers at the sale of the estate of Samuel Martin.

3/11/1844 Moultrie Co, IL. He had finally moved to the county where he already owned several acres of land by the time he added another 39.8 acres at S3 N13N from the federal sale for $1.25.

1850 Moultrie Co, IL. At census time he was listed as a farmer with property = $1000. He was living with his second wife and 5 children, the 2 youngest being theirs together.

2/1852 Moultrie Co, IL. His name was on a summons, then a deceased summons on 3/5/1852, and later the same year, his name appeared on a delinquent list for nonpayment of a note. Apparently someone forgot to take care of his business after he died.

Thomas apparently left shared land to his heirs which on 2/4/1903, they deeded to the public for the Jonathan Creek cemetery for $1.00 by quit-claim. The deed reads: "The grantors James Purvis, G.W. Purvis, Elija Purvis, and Alexander Purvis of the Town of Jonathan Creek in the County of Moultrie and State of Illinois for the consideration of
one ($1.00) Dollars, convey and quit-claim to the Public (for public burying purposes) all interest in the following described real estate....Except a certain parcel or strip 10 feet extending from the south side of the Church Building to the south line of the above
described tract of land (and known as the row or strip upon which the Purvis family bury their dead)." As of 1980 there were about 400 Purvises buried in Jonathan Creek Cemetery.

Cynthia Thomas died about 1843. She married Thomas Melvin PURVIS on 8 Apr 1823 in Bath Co, KY, probably.

They had the following children:

  F i Minerva PURVIS.
  M ii George Washington Purvis was born in 1835 in Shelby Co, IL. He died on 17 Mar 1908. He was buried in Jonathan Creek Cem, Moultrie Co, IL.

Residences & events:

1850 Moultrie Co, IL. He was not listed with his father's family in the census.

1860 Moultrie Co, IL. At census time he was living with Uncle William as a farmhand.

He served as Lt in Co H 18th ILL Inf in the Civil War.

6/7/1865 Jonathan Creek Twp, Moultrie Co, IL. He signed a petition for a road.

10/12/1869 His name was on a warranty deed in a land transfer.

8/7/1871 He paid a school tax for property at T14R6.

There may be a birth date discrepancy with sister, Nancy, who was born
the same year according to the 1850 census.
  F iii Nancy PURVIS was born in 1835. She died on 30 Mar 1856.
  M iv James PURVIS was born in Aug 1837.
  F v Angeline "Ann" PURVIS was born in 1839.
  M vi William A PURVIS was born in 1841 in Shelby Co, IL.

Residences & events:

1850 Moultrie Co, IL. William was not listed with Thomas' family in the census. Perhaps he does not belong to this family at all.

1860 Moultrie Co, IL. William, at 17, was living with the Chesley Drew family in Moultrie Co, IL, as a farm hand.
  M vii Alexander "Alec" Purvis was born on 12 Jun 1842. He died on 22 Sep 1909.

Thomas Melvin PURVIS [Parents] was born on 3 Jan 1803 in Mason/Fleming Co, KY. He died about Feb 1852 in E Nelson Twp, Moultrie Co, IL. He married Sarah "Sally" STANDERFER Waller on 16 Apr 1844 in Moultrie Co, IL, by Wm Purvis, the groom's brother.

Other marriages:
Thomas, Cynthia

Residences & events:

1/22/1827 Sangamon Co, IL. His name was found in early probate records in connection with the James Twaddle estate as a buyer at the sale of personal goods.

2/22/1830 Springfield, Sangamon Co, IL. Thomas, along with his father and brothers, William and Isaac, voted at the courthouse.

1830 Shelby Co, IL. He was listed among the county's first settlers, exact date not given
He was counted in the 4th Prect at census time, he and brother, John, being the only Purvises listed in the county. Those living in his household were 2 males under 5, 2 males 20-30, 2 females 5-10, and 1 female 20-30. One brother, probably James, was living with him at that time.

3/22/1836 Thomas started buying land from federal land sales, beginning with 80 acres in Moultrie Co at S3 T13N for $1.25/acre. He was still living in Shelby Co at that time.

5/31/1836 He bought another 79.61 acres in Moultrie at the same location, for the same $1.25/acre.

7/25/1836 His residence was still Shelby Co when he bought more Moultrie Co federal land, this time 39.81 acres at the same coordinates, again at $1.25/acre.

1/10/1837 He added to his estate in Moultrie Co by buying 40 more acres from a federal sale, still at $1.25/acre. Still he lived in Shelby Co.

3/6/1837 Julian, Shelby Co, IL. Thomas laid out a small village in S3 T13N R6E with 80x60' lots, 60' wide streets and 16' alleys. There he built a horse mill in response to the need of settlers living on the west side of the Okaw river, who were compelled to swim the river to get their milling done at East Nelson. Thomas also operated a tavern or inn there. Family tradition says that the tavern was a relay point where horses were changed on the stage road between Charleston and Springfield. Also according to tradition, Thomas' family and Abe Lincoln were long time friends. Son, James, was said to have sat on Abraham's lap when he came through on the stage.

2/19/1838 Enlarging his property limits, he bought 40 acres at a school sale in Moultrie Co for $2.01/acre, located at S16 13N.

8/10/1838 Shelby Co, IL. Thomas obtained his first real estate in the county of his residence by patent. On the same date, brothers, George, William, and John, all received land too.

12/29/1838 He appeared as a witness in a court suit between James Elder vs Jonathan Dasey.

1840 Shelby Co, IL. In the census he and his wife were 30-40 years old and their family consisted of 1 male under 5, 1 male 5-10, 1 male 10-15, 2 females 5-10, and 2 females 15-20. Two doors down was brother-in-law, John Golesby.

1/31/1843 Shelby Co, Il. According to probate records, he, along with several brothers, were among the purchasers at the sale of the estate of Samuel Martin.

3/11/1844 Moultrie Co, IL. He had finally moved to the county where he already owned several acres of land by the time he added another 39.8 acres at S3 N13N from the federal sale for $1.25.

1850 Moultrie Co, IL. At census time he was listed as a farmer with property = $1000. He was living with his second wife and 5 children, the 2 youngest being theirs together.

2/1852 Moultrie Co, IL. His name was on a summons, then a deceased summons on 3/5/1852, and later the same year, his name appeared on a delinquent list for nonpayment of a note. Apparently someone forgot to take care of his business after he died.

Thomas apparently left shared land to his heirs which on 2/4/1903, they deeded to the public for the Jonathan Creek cemetery for $1.00 by quit-claim. The deed reads: "The grantors James Purvis, G.W. Purvis, Elija Purvis, and Alexander Purvis of the Town of Jonathan Creek in the County of Moultrie and State of Illinois for the consideration of
one ($1.00) Dollars, convey and quit-claim to the Public (for public burying purposes) all interest in the following described real estate....Except a certain parcel or strip 10 feet extending from the south side of the Church Building to the south line of the above
described tract of land (and known as the row or strip upon which the Purvis family bury their dead)." As of 1980 there were about 400 Purvises buried in Jonathan Creek Cemetery.

Sarah "Sally" STANDERFER Waller was born on 6 Jan 1807 in TN. She died on 18 Nov 1872 in Moultrie Co, IL. She was buried in Jonathan Creek Cem, Moultrie Co, IL. She married Thomas Melvin PURVIS on 16 Apr 1844 in Moultrie Co, IL, by Wm Purvis, the groom's brother.

6/20/1853 & again 12/19/1859 Moultrie Co, Il. She was appointed guardian of the Eli Waller heirs, her own children, Eli and Angeline. Guardianship was a common practice which allowed parents to handle the childrens' inheritances.

1860 Jonathan Creek Twp, Moultrie Co, IL. As a widow for the second time, she was head of the house in the census with property = $800/300 and 3 adult Waller children living with her, son, Eli, as a farmer; daughter, Angeline, as an assistant; and daughter, Elizabeth, 20,
without occupation.

1870 Jonathan Creek Twp, Moultrie Co, IL. At age 66, Sarah then lived with son, Eli, and his family.

Some family listings show her birth year as 1806, some have her birth date as 7/1/1807.

They had the following children:

  M i Alby (Abraham?) PURVIS was born in 1845 in IL.

4/6/1857 Moultrie Co, IL. His name was on a guardian list at the courthouse.

John Ginn PURVIS [Parents] was born on 3 Jan 1803 in Fleming Co, KY. He died on 15 Apr 1867 in Chariton Co, MO. He married Nancy POOR on 5 May 1838 in Shelby Co, IL.

Some family histories do no include Aaron and Rachel in this family.

Residences & events:

7/20 - 8/27/1827 Sangamon Co, IL. John served in Capt Thompson's Co of Col Neale's detachment of IL Mounted Riflemen in the Winnebago Indian War along with brother, Isaac.

1829 Shelby Co, IL, where he made a claim for land.

3/1830 Sugar Creek Dist, Sangamon Co, IL. John along with brothers, Isaac and James, signed a petition requesting that a John Durley be appointed to fill the vacancy of Constable.

4/1/1830 E Nelson Twp, Shelby Co, IL. He and brother, James, arrived at the "Mill Seat" at the bend of the (Okaw) river and, according to the county history, "built a small cabin in section 7 where George Purvis still resides. They broke the first prairie in that township." Their father joined them there the following month.

1830 At census time, only he and brother, Thomas, were listed as household heads.

John served on the first petit jury with John Ginn and with brother, George, on the second jury.

Abt 1833 The brothers (John and James) built a mill which they operated until it was washed away in the 1840s when the river changed course, cutting through the area where they had diverted the water to the mill.

10/31/1836 John bought 40 acres of federal land in Moultrie Co at S17 T13N for 1.25/acre but his residence was still Shelby Co at that time.

11/1/1836 The next day he bought another 40 acres of federal land, this time in Sangamon Co at S20 T13N, again at $1.25/acre.

1837 E Nelson, Shelby Co, IL. Not being able to secure title to the current village property, John, along with Jonathan Dazey and Dr Montague, was instrumental in laying out a 40 acre tract of land 1/2 mile east, located at W1/2SE gr 17.13 N R6E. They divided it into 60x92' lots and blocks with 24' wide alleys and called it East Nelson. All the old buildings were moved into the new village and new businesses were added.

1837 E Nelson. He was in the land business, along with his in-laws, James and Sarah Poor, granting indentures in town to: 1.) David Smith for 2 lots, Lot 3 Block 11 for $8.00 and Lot 3 Block 8, also for $8.00; 2.) James Kirk for an unspecified lot for $4.00; 3.) Samuel Martin for Lot 4 in Block 11 for $20.00.

Shelby Co, IL. From the parties at law:
Richmond Webb Plaintiff against Philip Vadikin defendant action on acpt.
8/7/1837 Sums issued I Walker one Subpoena Purvis and poor $2.00
8/18/1837 Returned at Nelson Judgment for Deft, for cost
Justice cost 81 1/4
Constable 56 1/4
WG Haydon JP

8/10/1838 Shelby Co, IL. Land records verify John's patent on his first real estate in the county. On the same date, brothers, George, William, and Thomas, also bought property.

1/18/1839 From the parties at law, John was sued by a Philip Vadacan. He lost the suit and was ordered to pay $25.00, which he did.

2/1839 Apparently John borrowed money from John Whitley, Sr, often. He was sued by Elisha Whitley, administrator of John Whitley's estate, for several notes owed the estate. One for $125.75 which he borrowed along with John Whitley, Jr. The younger Whitley had already left the state, leaving Purvis holding the bag. Purvis paid his half and the balance was later dropped. Another was for $11 along with a Peter Warren, who also "could not be found." A credit of $7.00 was ordered by the plaintiff and the balance was stayed. A third was solely in John's name for $140.47.

Also in 1839 there were 2 circuit court cases of the People vs John G Purvis for gaming.

1840 Shelby Co, IL. He and his wife had only 1 child, who was under 5 years of age, living in their house at census time. John was 30-40 and his wife was 20-30.

1/31/1843 Shelby Co, IL. He and several brothers were listed in probate records as purchasers from the estate of Samuel Martin.

1843 Moultrie Co, IL. The former county split with John finding his residence was part of the new one. He served on the first petit jury called in the county.

1841-1843 Shelby Co, IL. John was included on the delinquent tax list for his 40 acres at NW SW S20 T13 R6, owing $0.72. Perhaps it was because he then lived in Moultrie Co.

1850 Moultrie Co, IL. At census time he had property = $400 but no occupation recorded. He and Nancy had 5 children at that time and Nancy's relatives lived a few doors down the road.

Charitan Co, MO. Perhaps following his old friend, John Whitley, Jr, he moved west, too.

Nancy POOR was born in 1813 in KY. She married John Ginn PURVIS on 5 May 1838 in Shelby Co, IL.

On 12/30/1850 Nancy's name appeared on a deed as the wife of John G.

They had the following children:

  M i James PURVIS was born in 1837. He died in 1906.
  M ii John G PURVIS was born in 1842. He died on 8 Mar 1885.
  M iii Thomas PURVIS was born on 16 Apr 1844. He died on 31 Aug 1925.
  F iv Elizabeth PURVIS was born in 1846 in Moultrie Co, IL.
  M v Benjamin E PURVIS was born in 1848 in Moultrie Co, IL. He died in TX.
  M vi Aaron PURVIS.
  F vii Rachel PURVIS.

James PURVIS [Parents] was born in 1805 in Mason Co, KY. He died in 1836 in Shelby Co, IL. He married Mahala JONES.

Residences & events:

Sangamon Co, IL.

1829 Shelby Co, IL. James entered 80 acres at the bend of the (Okaw) river. "The bend in the river is nearly the shape of a horse-shoe, and is three and one-half miles around, and at the neck it is only seventy steps between the streams. At this point it is said there is about nine feet fall. He, in the company with his brother, John G, built a water mill on this neck in 1833, and it has ever since been known as the old 'Mill seat.' It was a grist and saw mill, and was operated for several years by the Purvises and others, and finally
washed away."

3/1830 Sangamon Co, IL. In the proceedings of the Board of Supervisors was a petition to fill the vacancy of Constable by a John Durley. The signatures on the petition included James and his brothers, Isaac and John.

4/1/1830 E Nelson Twp, Shelby Co, IL. James and brother, John, arrived, being only the second in the county behind the Freeman brothers and their families. Historians recorded: They "built a cabin of rough unhewn logs on section 7, where George Purvis still continues to live. They broke the first prairie and put in a crop, and in the following month their father, John Purvis, his wife, and daughter, Malinda, came from Sangamon county. They all lived in this cabin one year." Other records verify that George also came with his father.

In the history of the village of Old Nelson it states: "This village was located just south of the "Mill Seat" in section 17. Mr. Vandakin failed to get a deed to this tract before James Purvis, the owner, died, and the heirs being minors, could not convey; hence the place
became extinct. Soon after the death of Mr. Purvis, his brother, John G. Purvis, Dr. Montague and Jonathan Dazey, laid out a tract a half mile east, into lots and blocks, and called it East Nelson."

11/12/1830 He was still living in Shelby Co when he purchased 80 acres in Moultrie Co at S17 T13N from a federal land sale for $1.25/acre. According to land records, James was the first of the family to purchase any Federal lands of IL, the next not until 6 yrs later.

Mahala JONES.Mahala married James PURVIS.

Following James' death, Mahala remarried and moved to California.

They had the following children:

  U i Thomas PURVIS was born in 1832 in E Nelson Twp, Shelby Co, IL.

Residences & events:

1860 Arapahoe Co, KS, where he was working as a miner in the Platte Valley.
  U ii William PURVIS.
  M iii Lawrence Ginn PURVIS was born on 16 Nov 1836. He died on 11 Jul 1929.

John Bracken was born in 1807 in KY. He died before 1850 in Moultrie Co, IL. He married Elizabeth PURVIS on 20 Sep 1829 in Sangamon Co, IL.

Residences & events:

1829 Sangamon Co, IL. Some historians say he arrived in IL in 1832 but he was involved in events at least 3 yrs prior.

1830 Springfield, Sangamon Co, IL. He voted at the Courthouse along with John, Isaac, and William Purvis.

1830 By census time, he and Isaac were the only ones left in the county.

E Nelson Twp, Shelby Co, IL. Following Elizabeth's family, they moved east.

2/2/1839 Shelby Co, IL. John was subpoened for a court suit by Elisah Whitley as administrator of his father's estate vs John G Purvis.

His children were living with relatives in the 1860 census.

Elizabeth PURVIS [Parents] was born in 1807 in Mason Co, KY. She died in 1850/1860 in the great plains while enroute to California. She married John Bracken on 20 Sep 1829 in Sangamon Co, IL.

In 1850 she was head of the house and living next door to brother, Thomas Purvis, without property.

She was head of the house in 1850 but gone by 1860 with the children living with various relatives. Perhaps it was her husband who died on the way to CA during the Gold Rush rather than her.

They had the following children:

  M i Thomas W BRACKEN was born in 1830.
  F ii Vienna BRACKEN was born in 1832 in Sangamon/Shelby Co, IL.

Vienna and Mary were living with Uncle George Purvis in the 1860 census while their brothers were living with another brother, Thomas.
  F iii Mary D BRACKEN was born in 1837 in Shelby Co, IL.
  M iv Robert "Bob" BRACKEN was born in 1839.
  M v John R BRACKEN was born in 1840. He died on 29 Aug 1941.

George Washington PURVIS [Parents] was born on 14 Jul 1812 in Bath Co, KY. He died on 19 Jul 1889 in E Nelson Twp, Moultrie Co, IL. He was buried in Old Nelson Cem, Moultrie Co, IL. He married Cassandra WALLER on 17 Mar 1833 in Shelby Co, IL, by O Prentice.

Other marriages:
POOR, Mahala

George and his activities were well documented, probably because of his wealth, influence, position, and participation in every community of which he was a part.

The family Bible and other family histories do no include Francis Marion as one of George's sons.

Residences & events in George's life:

KY

4/1/1830 Shelby Co, IL. On history states that he and brother, James, were the second to arrive in the county, being joined shortly by their father and sister. Another says he came with his father, joining brothers, James and John. He did arrive in IL in 1830
according to "Kentuckians in Illinois."

He served on the second petit jury of the area with brother, John.

7/6/1836 Sangamon Co, IL. George bought bought 2 tracts of federal lands, each containing 40 acres, paying $1.25/acre. One tract was located at S13 T13N, the other at S17 T13N. His place of residence at that time was recorded as Shelby Co.

8/10/1838 Shelby Co, IL. George began amassing his vast land holdings by patenting one parcel on this date as did brothers, John, Thomas, and William.

1/1/1839 He was subpoened and testified in a court suit between Solomon Chaplain vs Lydnor Bonem on a trespassing charge.

1840 Shelby Co, Il. In the census, he was 20-30 and had lost his wife. Living with him were 1 male under 5 (William), 2 females under 5 (the twins), and 1 female 5-10 (Hulda). Living next door was sister, Mahala, who lived next to sister, Malinda Standifer. Brother,
Isaac, also lived nearby.

1841-3 Shelby Co, IL. George bought items from several estate sales during this period.

10/18/1842 He bought another 40 acres of federal land in Sangamon Co at the same S17 T13N, again paying $1.25/acre. His residence was recorded as still Shelby Co at that time.

3/11/1844 Moultrie Co, IL. He had moved when he purchased 40 acres in Clay Co, IL, from a federal land sale. The land was located at S18 T03N and he paid the standard $1.25/acre.

6/10/1848 Moultrie Co, IL. George patented another piece of land.

1/7/1850 No residence was recorded for him nor was the price, when he bought 159.68 acres at S6 T13N in Moultrie Co at another federal land sale.

8/21/1850 In the census he was living with his second wife and 6 children. Living with the family were orphaned relatives he was raising: nieces, Vienna and Mary Bracken, daughter of Elizabeth Purvis Bracken, and nephew, James Purvis, son of Thomas. George was a farmer with property = $1320

12/30/1850 Moultrie Co, IL. George was involved in a land deed transfer.

1/21/1852 His name appeared on a summons for failure to pay a note, and again on 2/1852, no mention whether he was the debtor or creditor.

6/1/1854 Again he paid $1.25/acre for 40 acres of federal land located at S9 T13N in Moultrie Co, the same county of his residence.

3/1/1855 He patented a third piece of land and later the same year, was listed on the taxpayer list for the county.

5/8/1858 His name was on a promissary note recorded at the courthouse.

12/20/1858 He was mentioned in a file in probate court records.

12/19/1859 He was administrator of the county court and listed in the county treasurers report.

During this time period when the roads were muddy most travelers took short cuts on firmer ground. One history says Abraham Lincoln often cut through George's property to water his horse from George's well.

1/19/1860 He received a summons for jury duty in a sanity inquest and returned the verdict of insanity on a H. Dixon.

1860 Sullivan, Moultrie Co, IL. In the census, he was a farmer with property = $9255/2000 and had a large family of 12 children ranging in ages from 26 to 6 mo plus 2 farm hands, one of which was his nephew, Marion Purvis. His future dauther-in-law, Emma Wooten lived 3 doors down with her parents. The Addison McPheeters family lived next door to the Wootens.

Since he held several county offices, his name was recorded in connection with those dealings:

9/3/1860 In the county treasurer's report and again 12/1864.

3/18/1861 Reappointed administrator of the county court.

7/9/1864 In connection with notes and judgments collected.

1865 Involved in the sale of land for taxes.

1/15/1866 He filed estray papers for an unspecified animal and again 12/1866 for 2 heifers. Also that year he petitioned for a bridge at Jonathan Creek, and paid school taxes on his property at T13 R6 on 8/2 and 9/2/1866.

4/1867 George was co-surety on a justice bond.

1867 He sold some land.

1868 He was listed in a juror treasury report and again in the county treasurer's report.

3/31/1869 Still building his empire, he purchased 2 tracts of railroad land, both located at S18 T13N, one containing 160 acres, the other 40, paying $9.00/acre. His place of residence was not recorded.

7/30/1869 His property was among the list of taxable lands.

1870 E Nelson Twp, Moultrie Co, IL. In the census George was one of the wealthiest men in the county with property = $21,000/6000. Still living at home were 12 children ranging in ages from 36 to 4.

9/2/1871 He paid a school tax for his property at T13 R2.

12/22/1871 His name was on the bond for East Nelson Coll, and yet again in the co treasurer's report.

5/31/1872 He bought more railroad land in Moultrie Co, another 40 acres for $9.00/acre. It was located at S20 T13N.

9/30/1873 He got a bargain from the railroad this time, buying 40 acres at $8.00/acre, located at S8 T13N.

In the records of McMullin Funeral Home are the following entries without mention of the deceased:

Ord by George Purvis 16 June 1879 - 1 large #1 coffin & box $18.00
Paid $5.00 cash 16 Sept 1879
Paid $5.00 cash 18 Nov 1879
Paid $8.00 cash (no date)

Ord by George Purvis 4 Feb 1880 - 1 large #1 case & box $20.00
Paid $10.00 cash 4 Feb 1880
Paid $10.00 cash (no date)

1875 E Nelson. George was listed in the atlas among the township's 1021 residents as a land owner along with brother, William, and William's 2 sons.

1880 E Nelson Twp, Moultrie Co, IL. At census time George still had a large family and was listed as a farmer. Son, John, and his 2 year old daughter were also living there as well as a farm hand, George Fields, 20. Brother, William, was 3 doors down the road.

1881 He was still living at the same place where he had settled in 1830 according to the history of the county.

Cassandra WALLER was born about 1812 in TN. She died on 10 Jun 1840 in Moultrie Co, IL. She was buried in Jonathan Creek Cem, Moultrie Co, IL. She married George Washington PURVIS on 17 Mar 1833 in Shelby Co, IL, by O Prentice.

She lies buried between two of her children, William and Mahulda.

They had the following children:

  F i Mahulda "Hulda" PURVIS was born on 7 Feb 1834 in E Nelson Twp, Shelby Co, IL. She died on 29 Mar 1907 in Moultrie Co, IL. She was buried in Jonathan Creek Cem, Moultrie Co, IL.

Apparently she never married. In both the 1860 and 1870 census, she
was still living at home, in 1860 as an assistant, in 1870 as a
seamstress. In 1880 she lived with her brother, William, and their
teenage niece.

Mahulda lies buried beside her mother.
  M ii William Ginn PURVIS was born on 15 Sep 1835 in E Nelson Twp, Shelby Co, IL. He died on 16 Aug 1908 in Moultrie Co, IL. He was buried in Jonathan Creek Cem, Moultrie Co, IL.

Residences & events:

1860 Sullivan, Moultrie Co, Il. He was a farmer and living with his father at census time.

1870 E Nelson, Twp, Moultrie Co, IL. William was still a farmer, still at home. His property = $400 in personal property only.

1880 E Nelson Twp, Moultrie Co, IL. William, as a farmer and head of the house, had his sister, Mahulda, and niece, Isabel Kerchevall, 19, living with him.

1900 He was still there at census time and Mahulda was still living with him.

William was also buried beside his mother. He too apparently never
married.
  F iii Sarah PURVIS was born on 8 Feb 1838. She died on 5 Jun 1863.
  F iv Elizabeth PURVIS was born on 8 Feb 1838. She died on 26 Mar 1915.

George Washington PURVIS [Parents] was born on 14 Jul 1812 in Bath Co, KY. He died on 19 Jul 1889 in E Nelson Twp, Moultrie Co, IL. He was buried in Old Nelson Cem, Moultrie Co, IL. He married Mahala POOR on 25 Aug 1840 in Shelby Co, IL, by David Patterson.

Other marriages:
WALLER, Cassandra

George and his activities were well documented, probably because of his wealth, influence, position, and participation in every community of which he was a part.

The family Bible and other family histories do no include Francis Marion as one of George's sons.

Residences & events in George's life:

KY

4/1/1830 Shelby Co, IL. On history states that he and brother, James, were the second to arrive in the county, being joined shortly by their father and sister. Another says he came with his father, joining brothers, James and John. He did arrive in IL in 1830
according to "Kentuckians in Illinois."

He served on the second petit jury of the area with brother, John.

7/6/1836 Sangamon Co, IL. George bought bought 2 tracts of federal lands, each containing 40 acres, paying $1.25/acre. One tract was located at S13 T13N, the other at S17 T13N. His place of residence at that time was recorded as Shelby Co.

8/10/1838 Shelby Co, IL. George began amassing his vast land holdings by patenting one parcel on this date as did brothers, John, Thomas, and William.

1/1/1839 He was subpoened and testified in a court suit between Solomon Chaplain vs Lydnor Bonem on a trespassing charge.

1840 Shelby Co, Il. In the census, he was 20-30 and had lost his wife. Living with him were 1 male under 5 (William), 2 females under 5 (the twins), and 1 female 5-10 (Hulda). Living next door was sister, Mahala, who lived next to sister, Malinda Standifer. Brother,
Isaac, also lived nearby.

1841-3 Shelby Co, IL. George bought items from several estate sales during this period.

10/18/1842 He bought another 40 acres of federal land in Sangamon Co at the same S17 T13N, again paying $1.25/acre. His residence was recorded as still Shelby Co at that time.

3/11/1844 Moultrie Co, IL. He had moved when he purchased 40 acres in Clay Co, IL, from a federal land sale. The land was located at S18 T03N and he paid the standard $1.25/acre.

6/10/1848 Moultrie Co, IL. George patented another piece of land.

1/7/1850 No residence was recorded for him nor was the price, when he bought 159.68 acres at S6 T13N in Moultrie Co at another federal land sale.

8/21/1850 In the census he was living with his second wife and 6 children. Living with the family were orphaned relatives he was raising: nieces, Vienna and Mary Bracken, daughter of Elizabeth Purvis Bracken, and nephew, James Purvis, son of Thomas. George was a farmer with property = $1320

12/30/1850 Moultrie Co, IL. George was involved in a land deed transfer.

1/21/1852 His name appeared on a summons for failure to pay a note, and again on 2/1852, no mention whether he was the debtor or creditor.

6/1/1854 Again he paid $1.25/acre for 40 acres of federal land located at S9 T13N in Moultrie Co, the same county of his residence.

3/1/1855 He patented a third piece of land and later the same year, was listed on the taxpayer list for the county.

5/8/1858 His name was on a promissary note recorded at the courthouse.

12/20/1858 He was mentioned in a file in probate court records.

12/19/1859 He was administrator of the county court and listed in the county treasurers report.

During this time period when the roads were muddy most travelers took short cuts on firmer ground. One history says Abraham Lincoln often cut through George's property to water his horse from George's well.

1/19/1860 He received a summons for jury duty in a sanity inquest and returned the verdict of insanity on a H. Dixon.

1860 Sullivan, Moultrie Co, IL. In the census, he was a farmer with property = $9255/2000 and had a large family of 12 children ranging in ages from 26 to 6 mo plus 2 farm hands, one of which was his nephew, Marion Purvis. His future dauther-in-law, Emma Wooten lived 3 doors down with her parents. The Addison McPheeters family lived next door to the Wootens.

Since he held several county offices, his name was recorded in connection with those dealings:

9/3/1860 In the county treasurer's report and again 12/1864.

3/18/1861 Reappointed administrator of the county court.

7/9/1864 In connection with notes and judgments collected.

1865 Involved in the sale of land for taxes.

1/15/1866 He filed estray papers for an unspecified animal and again 12/1866 for 2 heifers. Also that year he petitioned for a bridge at Jonathan Creek, and paid school taxes on his property at T13 R6 on 8/2 and 9/2/1866.

4/1867 George was co-surety on a justice bond.

1867 He sold some land.

1868 He was listed in a juror treasury report and again in the county treasurer's report.

3/31/1869 Still building his empire, he purchased 2 tracts of railroad land, both located at S18 T13N, one containing 160 acres, the other 40, paying $9.00/acre. His place of residence was not recorded.

7/30/1869 His property was among the list of taxable lands.

1870 E Nelson Twp, Moultrie Co, IL. In the census George was one of the wealthiest men in the county with property = $21,000/6000. Still living at home were 12 children ranging in ages from 36 to 4.

9/2/1871 He paid a school tax for his property at T13 R2.

12/22/1871 His name was on the bond for East Nelson Coll, and yet again in the co treasurer's report.

5/31/1872 He bought more railroad land in Moultrie Co, another 40 acres for $9.00/acre. It was located at S20 T13N.

9/30/1873 He got a bargain from the railroad this time, buying 40 acres at $8.00/acre, located at S8 T13N.

In the records of McMullin Funeral Home are the following entries without mention of the deceased:

Ord by George Purvis 16 June 1879 - 1 large #1 coffin & box $18.00
Paid $5.00 cash 16 Sept 1879
Paid $5.00 cash 18 Nov 1879
Paid $8.00 cash (no date)

Ord by George Purvis 4 Feb 1880 - 1 large #1 case & box $20.00
Paid $10.00 cash 4 Feb 1880
Paid $10.00 cash (no date)

1875 E Nelson. George was listed in the atlas among the township's 1021 residents as a land owner along with brother, William, and William's 2 sons.

1880 E Nelson Twp, Moultrie Co, IL. At census time George still had a large family and was listed as a farmer. Son, John, and his 2 year old daughter were also living there as well as a farm hand, George Fields, 20. Brother, William, was 3 doors down the road.

1881 He was still living at the same place where he had settled in 1830 according to the history of the county.

Mahala POOR was born on 13 Feb 1826 in IN. She died on 27 Mar 1898 in Moultrie Co, IL. She was buried in Purvis Cem, Moultrie Co, IL. She married George Washington PURVIS on 25 Aug 1840 in Shelby Co, IL, by David Patterson.

Mahala was considerable younger than George, by 14 years.

12/30/1850 Her name appeared on a deed as the wife of George.

Son, Samuel, told the census taker in 1910 that his mother was born in KY.

They had the following children:

  M i James Henry PURVIS was born on 16 Jan 1842. He died on 14 Jul 1919.
  F ii Mary Ann PURVIS was born on 26 Apr 1843 in E Nelson Twp, Shelby Co, IL. She died on 26 Aug 1904. She was buried in Purvis Cem, Moultrie Co, IL.

In the 1880 census, she was still living at home.

In 1884 she and her sisters, Dulcena, Mattie, and Fanny, as well as
brother, Charlie, were charter members of the Allenville Christian
Church.

Then in 1915 the girls joined other members of the Church of Christ in
Sullivan, IL, for worship in their homes, eventually growing into the
Highway Church of Christ.
  F iii Celia Ann PURVIS was born on 17 Jan 1845.
  F iv Dulcenia PURVIS was born on 17 Apr 1846 in E Nelson Twp, Moultrie Co, IL. She died in 1930. She was buried in Greenhill Cem, Sullivan, Moultrie Co, IL.

She was still at home in 1880 at census time.

In 1884 she and siblings, Mattie, Fanny, Mary, and Charles, were among
the charter members of the Allenville, IL, Christian Church.

The girls were part of the core group to form the Highway Church of
Christ in Sullivan, IL, starting in 1915 by worshipping in their
homes.

She never married.

She is buried along side of sisters, Martha and Fannie.
  F v Martha J "Mattie" PURVIS was born on 25 Nov 1848 in E Nelson Twp, Moultrie Co, IL. She died on 28 Dec 1926. She was buried in Greenhill Cem, Sullivan, Moultrie Co, IL.

Martha was still living at home in 1880.

The Allenville, IL, Christian Church listed her and her siblings,
Charles, Fannie, Dulcena, and Mary, among their charter members in
1884.

Then in 1915, the girls joined other members of the Church of Christ
in Sullivan, IL, to worship in their homes, eventually growing into
the Highway Church of Christ.

She never married.

Some listings show her birth date as 11/23/1848.

The 3 unmarried sisters, Mattie, Fannie, and Dulcenia, spent their
entire lives together and were buried together as well.
  M vi Samuel Harden PURVIS was born on 5 Sep 1850. He died on 7 Aug 1914.
  M vii Male PURVIS was born on 23 Jun 1852 in E Nelson Twp, Moultrie Co, IL. He died on 23 Jun 1852 in E Nelson Twp, Moultrie Co, IL.
  M viii John Downing PURVIS was born on 25 Sep 1853. He died on 13 Jan 1907.
  F ix Susan Ruth PURVIS was born on 25 Mar 1856. She died on 28 Aug 1919.
  F x Julia I PURVIS was born on 25 Jan 1858 in E Nelson Twp, Moultrie Co, IL. She died before 1860.

She was not listed with her father's family in the 1860 census.
  F xi Dora J PURVIS was born on 24 Mar 1860. She died on 14 Mar 1902.
  F xii Fannie R PURVIS was born on 24 Jul 1862 in E Nelson Twp, Moultrie Co, IL. She died on 7 Jul 1942. She was buried in Greenhill Cem, Sullivan, Moultrie Co, IL.

She was still living with her parents in 1880. She too never married.


She was among the charter members of the Allenville, IL, Christian
Church in 1884 along with siblings, Charlie, Mary, Dulcena, and
Mattie.

In 1915 she, along with Mattie and Dulcena, joined other members of
the Church of Christ in Sullivan, IL, to worship in their homes, the
group growing and progressing to form the Highway Church of Christ.

Fannie was buried with the 2 sisters she spent her entire life with,
Dulcenia and Mattie.
  M xiii Charles Edgar PURVIS was born on 2 Aug 1865. He died on 27 May 1919.

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