Tap-Tico History

During my last research trip in 2003, I spent most of my time in the Virginia State Library.During this time I had special material made available to me by the Library, not because of my  good looks, but because I corrected the Taptico  information they had published in  the “Executive Journals of The Council of Colonial Virginia”.It wasn’t a big deal just a correction of Taptico’s name, they had mistakenly spelled it Paptico. Any way, I was looking for the marriage license for Molly Tapp (supposedly the daughter of Vincent and Mary Jett Tapp). The marriage license was not available to the public because of the condition  of the document, however they had  a translation of  the marriage, typed by what appeared to be with a type writer from the turn of the century.

Following translation of the licenese:

Corbin

  to

Tapp

Know all men by these presents that we John Corbin and Elijah Mason are held and firmly bound  unto his Excellencey James Wood Esqr, Governor of Virginia for the time being in the just and full sum of one hundred and fifty dollars to which payment well and truly to be made to said Governor or his successors for the use of the Commonwealth we bind ourselves, our heirs, Executors & administrators and assigns Jointly and severally firmly by these presents Sealed with our seals and  Dated this 16  day of January 1799.

        The condition of the above obligation is much that whereas there is a marriage shortly intended to be solominized between the above bound John Corbin and Molly Tapp. Now if there be no lawful cause to obstruct the said marriage then the above obligation to void else to remain in full force.

                                                                             John Corbin

                                                                                       X

                                                                             Elijah Mason

Sealed and delivered in the presence of: To the Clerk of Fauquier Court.

Sir John Corbin appears to wish to marry my Daughter Molley Tapp this is to

Certify to you that it is my wish you grant him a license for that purpose given under my hand this 15th day of January, One Thousand, Seven Hundred, and Ninety Nine. (1799)

                                                                                 Vincent Tapp         (Seal )

Test.  Austin Bradford   Elijah Mason

The reason this information is important is…  there is a Corbin Family Book  in print, that has  Taptico as an ancestor. Now here is the rub…this Vincent Tapp,  son of William and Elizabeth and married Mary Jett, died in 1790 and his will probated about January 1791.  So…if this is an accurate translation , the information is wrong.  It’s possible  this is another Vincent Tapp and Molley from another line.  Because of the location I tend to believe this may be part of the English Tapps. I checked the other marriage licenses  on the microfilm and the dates for groupings were the same, so I don’t believe the date was a mistake.

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The following is a copy of Alice Grahams letter to a Vincent Tapp in Albermarle Co VA.

Alice Grahams Letter, October 25, 1811

Rockingham County VA.

Sir

I received yours of the 4^th instant, in which you request me to inform you of my Maiden Name, and family which I will do with pleasure, my Fathers name was William Tapp, and lived in Culpeper County, on the little fork of Rapahancock, and had one Brother onley whose name was Vincent and one sister named Charity. My Uncle lived in Frederick County near Berg’s ferry who had three Sons, and five Daughters, named William, Vincent, and Jhon, Elizabeth, Mary, Ann, Sarah, and Lettice, As well as I recollect it has been about 54 years since I went from Culpeper to Frederick to see my friends and my cousin William had one son whom he named Vincent and I think you are the same. Thus I have given you a narative of my father’s family and the way I think I am connected with yours. If my circumstances were equal to my wishes I would soon be to see you. You will be able to determine whether I am related to your fathers family or not. I shall be very glad to see you, and cherish a Hope that you will come to see me as soon as you can. If it is not convenient for you , or any of your family to come and visit us, I wish to write me by the next mail after you receive this.

Mr Vincent Tapp

Yours respectifully  Alice Graham

Courtesy of Duke University NC

This was Alices response  to Vincents letter (English Tapp)…she states she thinks he is the son of William , her cousin, stating that he has one son who he named Vincent. Stick with me…I’ll explain the situation. The below is taken from the “Abstracts of Wills, Inventories, and Adminstration Accounts of Frederick County Virgina.  1743-1800

Murphy Darby…6 April, 1768, February 1769

Wife: Elizabeth to have all the estate, Daughter Ann Tapp; grandson Lewis Turner; Darby Turner, son of Henry Turner and wife Sarah; John Murphy Tapp son of William and Ann Turner…should read Tapp. Appr enticed boys Edward and Augusta Jennings to free. Exrs: Henry Turner and William Tapp.  Wit:  John Andrews, Mary Andrews and Edward Jennings.

The following is from the Bible of Vincent Tapp ( English)

The Vincent Tapp that Alice is corresponding with lives in Frederick Co VA.

“Upper Left Quarter” Family Records..”Marriages” 

Vincent  married Susanna Gambill  24 June  1782 in Charlottsville in Albermarle County VA.

Upper Right Quarter “  First  Column (left)Vincent Tapp, son of William Tapp  & Ann his wife, was born in Frederick County, 2nd day of April  1757.

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Inventory of Vincent Tapps Estates

Frederick County, Virgina

In obedience to an order of the said County Court bearing date the 2nd day of June 1752, we the subscribers being appointed by the said order too value the estate of Vincent Tapp, decd and being sworn before Marquire Batmen  gent} have a valued the same as follows;

To an old horse, Saddle & Bridle      .10

To a prcill (?) Old fowler 13/a prcill (?) Woodenware  .03

To a prcill (?) Old Iron 15/2 basketts & (?)lumber  .07

To Beds & Furniture    3.10

To 1 Cow & yearling       .10

To Cask of Tobacco       .26

                                          _____________

                                                      9.12.6

                                                                                           John Ashby

                                                                                            William Wood

                                                                                            Joseph Combs

At Court held for Frederick County on Tuesday th 4th day of August 1752.                   William Tapp is having returned into Court the appraisement the estate of Vincent Tapp, decd, the same is admitted to record.

NOTE:  There is some question as to who this Vincent Tapp is, however based on extant records…bible records and Alice Grahams October 25 1811 letter, I’m taking the postion that this  William and Vincent is from the Native American side. Alices letter stated that her uncle , Vincent had moved to Frederick County Va.  [This is the Vincent that supposedly married Elizabeth Bourne]. Alice stated that  her Uncle Vincent had three sons and five daughters named  William, Vincent and Jhon…Elizabeth, Mary, Ann, Sarah, and Lettice.  I believe the Vincent in the above will is Alices Uncle  ( brother to William and Charity) that moved to Bergs Ferry in Frederick and the William is either his brother  (Alices father) or Alices cousin, William. ( Remember…Alice said her Uncle had a son named William). ( Remember the Vincent that married Susannah was born  1757).

Let me know if your throughly confused.

 I have been cleaning my office of 26 years of Tapp research and will be posting various items that my be of interest to the Native American Tapp. At times I will post stuff from the the  European side.

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  The lineage of Abner is:

William Taptico  I……Elinor

William Taptico II…..Elizabeth

William Tapp………….Elizabeth Betty Doggett

Abner Tapp……………Frances Snipes

Raleigh North Carolina

“The Star”

October 10, 1810

Orange County, North Carolina

A HORRID MURDER : Mr. Abner Tapp, a very industrious farmer of Orange County, was murdered on Saturday night the 29^th utl. while attending his still.

His body was found a week after buried under a large log in the creek near his still, his skull split open by a stroke with an axe. A Negro and a white man, ( the former the property of Mr. Tapp and the latter lived in the neighborhood ,) are supposed to have perpetuated the horrid deed, and are now confined in Hillsborough Jail…indeed the Negro has confessed that he assisted to secret the body and says the white man gave the blow.

The Negro gave up $118 , which he says was part of the money taken from his master. Mr Tapp has left a wife and nine children.

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Information concerning Nimrod Tapp and his descendants. The following is a sworn statement by “Frances Tapp McKinney.

It relates to  the lineage of Moses Tapp, his Father , Nimrod Tapp and Mother, Mary Ann Cravens and the children of Moses.

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To Whom It May Concern:

I, Frnaces Tapp Mckinney, do herby certify to the following facts;  that I am the oldest living daughter of Moses Tapp and Mary Ann Cravens. My father was born in Culpepper County Virginia, and was the son of Nimrod Tapp and his wife Hester Ann Thorpe. I do not know  their birth date, nor where they were married or when they died but that my father, Moses Tapp has told me that he was one  of two children born twins and were the 12th and 13th children of Nimrod Tapp and his wife Hester Ann Thorpe Tapp. My Fathers twin brother’s name was Vincent Tapp of whom I know nothing.

My Father has two other living children, Ella Dinsmore of Jeffersonville, and one Kate Tapp Sage of Brownstown (Ewing ) Indiana. Any of their  children would be grand children of Moses and Ann Cravens Tapp, and great grand children of Nimrod and Hester Ann thorpe late of Culpeper County Virginia, where my Father  was born. My Father’s  parents  both died when he  was a very small boy after which he was brought and reared to manhood near Covington , Kentucky,  by a man  by the name of Fishback and his son-in-law, a man by the name of Watson.

I am making this statement for the benefit of any of my children and the descendants of any of my sisters children who may wish to join any organizations pertaining to the Revolutionary War.

These statement I do declare to be true to the best of knowledge and from the memories of my conversations with my father, Moses Tapp who died in my home in Louisville, Kentucky, July 5, 1893, and in now buried in Walnut Hill Cemetery In Jeffersonville, Indiana.

Signed   Francis Tapp Mckinney.

Subscribed and Sworn to before me this 29th day of August 1932  by Francis Tapp Mckinney.

Tina Wallendinham, N.P. for Grant County Kentucky

My commission expires April 10, 1936

 If those of you that read the material and interested in the posting of further information, email me at….eagleman1@localnet.com

 TAPTICO HISTORY 1678-1719 INTRODUCTION I’m going to take an unusual approach in writing the history of Taptico and the connection to the Tapp’s. All known available information and dates concerning Taptico will be delivered at the beginning of the book and then a narrative will be presented to connect the dates and the latest theory on some issues that are controversial. Keep in mind this approach will not make reference to the Liles Fulcher, Tapp book “Tapp Family of America” until after the facts, and my theory is presented, then information concerning the the Liles book and a comparison with the facts will be presented. This book will discuss the history of the Wicomico and the Powhatan Confederacy only to the point of connection of the two, and will not get into details as my previous books. 

CHAPTER ONE

Fact One: An Act for payment and assessing the Publick Charges of this Province: Whereas There hath been Eight hundred twently five thousand Nyne hundred Seventy Nyne pounds of Tobacco Expended layd out & disbursed by severall of the inhabitants of this Province in the late Expedicon against the Nanticoke Indians and other of the necessary Charges of this Province which hath been Examined stated and allowed by the upper and lower houses of this present Generall Assembly To the intent therefore That the same may bee satisfyed and payd to those persons to whom the same is due Bee it Enacted by the Right Honble the Lord Proprietary by and with the advice and Consent of the upper and lower houses of this present General Assembly and the Authority of the same That the said Eight Hundred twenty five thousand Nyne hundred Seventy Nyne pounds of Tobacco be paid in manner & forme as is hereafter Expressed by an Equall Assessment vppon the persons & Estates of the Inhabitants fo this Province and be payd to the several persons to whome the same is due as aforesaid Any Law Statute Custome or vseage to the Contrary thereof Notwithstanding…Dorchester County-William Tapticoe, 300 lbs. tobacco. Archives of Maryland, Vol 7, Proceedings and Acts of the General Assembly of Maryland, page 93. At a session held at St May’s Oct. 20 to Nov. 14, 1678

Fact Two: December 1, 1679- Andrew Insley of Dorchester County , planter, to William Tapticoe of the same place, planter : “Andrews Cove” on the east side of Hunger River, on the north side of the east branch of Fox Creek which issues of said river; 100 a. more or less to be held of the Manor of Nanticoke. Elizabeth, wife of Andrew Insley. Wit: George Ferguson, John Jefferson. Ackn: October 18, 1681. Thomas Smithson, Clk. Henry Hooper, Atty for William Tapticoe. Power of Atty dated Oct. 1681 and wit: by William Travers, Thomas Travers. 2 Abstracts From The Land Records Of Dorchester County Maryland, Vol A, Libers Old No. 1-Old No 4, complied by James A. McAllister Jr. Page 54.

Fact Three: October 6, 1681-This court record concerns William Traverse (Travers) and John Merriday late of Dorchester County, planter, and 300 acres of land called “Traverse Lott”. John Merriday was accused of unjustly detaining this land from Traverse and it was commanded of the sheriff that Traverse had legal possession of the land. “On said fourth day of October aforesaid Stephen Gray Sheriffe of the County aforesaid made Returne of the writ aforesaid that on the ninth day of August 1681 in the presence of Anthony Duncan, Alexander Ffairbush, William Taphegoe & William Reede Hee Delivered possession of the said one Messuage and three hundred Acres of land Called Traverse Lott To the said William Traverse”. Authors Comment: Based on Fact Two and Three, it appears there may be a family connection between the Taptico family and Travers family. Archives of Maryland, Vol 70, Proceedings of the Provincial Court of Maryland, 1681-1683, Court Series (15), editor Elizabeth Merritt, page 54 & 55.

Fact Four: Grant No 636-“Tapticoes Chance” to William Taptico for 50 acres surveyed 9/10/1683. Pat. L AD # A F208 gives the location as: on the east side of the middle branch of Fox Creek that issues out of Hunger River beginning at a marked pine standing near the head of a small cove being an old bounded tree of the land called “Andrews Cove” from thence running bounded therewith west eighty perches from thence running north 164 perches…opposite to the mouth of Fox Creek. This grant was on assignment for Thomas Pattison the assignee of Thomas Smithson. Source: The Early Settlers of Dorchester County and Their Lands, Vol II, by Calvin W. Mowbray & Mary I. Mowbray, page 128. 

Fact Five: November 16, 1685-William Bourn of Dorchester County to Kempton Mabbot of the same county: “Helens Bumstead” at the head of Fox Creek containing 50 a. more or less. Also “Bourne Meadows” on a creek of Hungar River called Fox Creek between Hoopers Creek and Tapticoes Creek, adj “Helens Bumstead” and containing 50 a. more or else. Also “Buck Ridge” on the north side of Hoopers Creek, which is a branch of Fox Creek, opposite the land Spicer and Wingott called “Cochester” and containing 50 a. more or else. Wit:Susanna Moss, John Bracksley. Acknowledged January 5, 1685/6. Joseph Stanaway, atty for Mary bourn, wife of William Bourn. Alienation paid. John Taylor, Sherr. Source: Abstracts From The Land Records Of Dorchester County Maryland, Vol. A, Libers Old No. 1-Old No. 4, complied by James A. McAllister, Jr. Page 67 & 68.

Fact Six: On reading the Peticon of Taptico and other of the Wikocomoco Indians about their lands, and the order of the Genil Court dated June the 7th 1678 and an order of Councill dated may the 22nd 1683 relating thereto. It is the opinion and Advice of the Councill and Ordered in Councill that Capt John Smith one of the Persons Complained of the said Indians, have regard that they be not disturbed, to the infringment of the aforesaid Orders. Source: Executive Journals of the Councill of Colonial Virginia, Councill held at James Citty, 29th April 1693.

Fact Seven: November 12,1695-William Taptico and Elenor his wife of Northumberland County, Virginia, to Sarah Luft of Somner County” Andrews Cove” on the east side of Hungar River and on the north side of the east branch of Fox Creek, containing 100 a. more or less. Also “Tapptecoes Chance” adj “ Andrews Cove” and containing more or less. Wit: William Monteith, Richard Hooper. Ackn: November 12, 1695 before henry Hooper and Richard Tubman, Justices. 4 Source: Abstracts From Land Records Of Dorchester County Maryland, Vol. B, Libers Old No 41/2-Old No. 8 complied by James A. McAllister Jr.

Fact Eight: January 15, 1703-Mrs Sarah Luft of Somner County, widow, to her son Jarvis Ballard: “Andrews Cove” on the east side of Hungar River and on a branch of Fox Creek, containing 100 a. more or less; also “Tappticoes Chance” adj “ Sndrews Cove” and containing 50 a., conveyed to grantor by William Tappteco and Elinor his of Northumberland in Colony of Virginia. Wit: Peter Dent, William Evans. Roger Woolford, Atty for Sarah Luft. Source: Abstracts From The Land Records Of Dorchester County Maryland, Vol. B, Libers Old No. 4 1/2-Old No 8, page 39 & 40.

Fact Nine: June 23, 1699-Martha Haynes against William Taptico continued. Source: Northumberland County Order Books, 1699-1713, page 35

Fact Ten: July 20, 1699-Whereas it appears to the court that Wm Tapticoe is indebted to Martha Haynes upon balance of a bill dated the fourteenth day of March 1697 three hundred and forty lbs of tobacco and cask. Judgment is therefore granted the said Martha ag’t the said William Tapticoe and ordered the said Tapticoe pay the said sume of three hundred and forty pounds of tobacco and cask unto said Martha with costs of suite ali Ex’o. Source: Northumberland County Order Books, 1699-1713, page # not legible.

Fact Eleven: October 20, 1699-Elizabeth Curtis having made oath that shee attended this court fower days as an evidence on the behalfe of William Tapticoe ag’t Peter Whables. It’s ordered he pay her forty pounds of tobacco per deim according to 5 law ali Ex’o. Source: Northumberland County Order Books, 1699-1713, page 80

Fact Twelve: October 20, 1699-Graves Eves having made oath that he attended this court three days as an evidence on the behalfe of Peter Whables ag’t William Tapticoe it’s ordered the said Whables (sic) pay him for the same forty pounds of tobacco per deim according to laws ali Ex’o. Source: Northumberland County Order Books, 1699, 1699-1713, page 81.

Fact Thirteen: July 18, 1701-Charles Prichard against William Tapticoe dismissed. Source: Northumberland County Order Books, 1699-1713, page # not legible.

Fact Fourteen: July 18, 1701-Francis Jones and company against William Tapticoe dismissed. Source: Northumberland County Order Books, 1699-1713

Fact Fifteen: July 20, 1710-Wm. Tapp Jun agt Richard (?) Jordon Source: Northumberland CountyOrder Books, 1699-1713, page #not legible.

Fact Sixteen: Present: The Honorable Edmund Jennings Esqs. President Dudley Diggs, Robert Carter Esqrs., James Blair Com’ry, Phillip Ludwell, Henry Duke, William Churchill Esqs. William Taptico King of the Wicocomico Indians came before the President 6 and Council and presented three Indian Arrows as an acknowledgment for their land he and his Nation holds in Northumberland County which at the desire of the sd. King is ordered to be noted in the Council books to perpetuate the of the said Nation of Indians to this land. Source: Executive Journals of the Council of Colonial Virginia, April the 19th 1710.

Fact Seventeen: February 20, 1712-Taptico Servt to Ball It’s ordered in a dispute between Richard Ball Gent. & Geo Tapticoe his inder’d servant that the said George Taptico serve his sd. Master according to his indenture. Source: Northumberland County Order Books, 1699-1713

Fact Eighteen: July 10, 1713-Ball agt Curtis Jno Curtis was arrested at the suit of Richd Ball & not appearing to answer sd suit order is therefore granted the sd Ball agt Wm Taptico security of the sd Curtis for nine thousand three hundred pounds of tobo. with costs returnable to the next court. Source: Northumberland County Order Books 1699-1713.

Fact Nineteen: Present: The Honorable Alexander Spotswood her Majesty’s Lieutenant Governor & John Blair, Henry Duke, John Smith,John Lewis, William Byrd, William Cocke Esqrs. Complaint being made to this board by John Vesey chief man of the Wicocomico Indians that one Richard Ball of Northumbrland County hath for several years detained as a servant on George an Indian of that Nation under 7 the pretence o of a Contract made with his Mother also an Indian. Contrary to the Acts of Assembly then in force, & because the sd George departed from his service, hath now sued the Mother of the said George for entertaining him & threatens others of the same Nation with the like prosecution to their great disturbance it is ordered that the sd Complt be referred to Mr Attorney Genll to consider the Acts of Assembly alleged by the Complaints and if he find Cause to prosecute the sd Ball for the penalty therein contained and take such legall Measures as he shall be fitt to prevent the Indians form any unjust vexation at Mr Balls suit. Source: Executive Journals of the Councill of Virgina, at a Councill held at the Captital the 19th day of October 1713.

Fact Twenty: October Anno Domino 1713 Appointed by William Jones Gent and One of her Majesty’s Justices of this court to be called by this Barr for Examining a Mullato Indian named George and all the evidence relating to the matter where as he ___accused according to the Act of Assemble in case made and reocrded. George and Indian Page One Mullato Criminal __moved to Williamsburg George an Indian Mullato having being booked and in Sheriff custody by warrant from Wm. Jones one of the Justice of the Peace for this County upon suspicion of being guilty of murdering Allen Dorrett and this day the said Indian Mullato being produced to the Court by the Sheriff and Wm. Daro, Attorney for our Sovereign Lady, the Queen, came into Court and produced his examination for Wm. Jones on this 26th day of September, 1713 who hath____ the said 8 George confessed that he did strike the said Allen Dorrett and the said George being examined in Court the said George did confess that he struck the said Allen Dorrett with a stake, also on twelve men under the hand and seal taken before the Justice of the Peace for this County was in Court with an affidavit of GEO CURTIS and JAMES VEAZEY____ ____said____ on ____ ____that upon the brow of the body of Allen Dorrett, they find that his death by a mortal wound on his skull above his forehead and his right eye and George an Indian Mullato an inhabitant at Wicocomico Indian Town gave the said wound by a stake____ ____the 24th day of September for ( _________ ) and that the ( should ?) do ____ in ____ then twenty four hours after the said stake was____ and the said GEORGE CURTIS and JAMES VEAZEY being called to come before the Court and being sworn in Court to testify this truth of ____ ____on behalfe of our Sovereign Lady the Queen agt the said Indian George at this Barr, they were interrogated and afforded____ ____ first the said CURTIS to wether he knew the Indian Mullato____ ____ you at the Barr and he confessed____ , secondly who these____ ____ Dorrett and how long he had known him and he answered he had known him about nine years, thirdly what he knew concerning the said Indian Mullato of killing or murdering the said Allen who answered that he was at an Indians house in Wicocomico Indian Town called John on the 4th of September ___ ____ (piece missing) the said Allen Dorrett ( Blank Space)____ __ ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ (piece missing) the said Indian Mulatto ( piece missing) Indian Mulatto and ____ the said Allen and they ____ ( piece missing) and the other and the Indian Mulatto to threw the said Allen ( piece missing) and the ( Ippon ? ) went toward the ____ of said Indian Mulatto went into the peach orchard and the said Allen threw a board at him and breaking a stick would have had the said ( Ippon ?) This ____but he refused it and went into the said house/home of 9 Indian Jno. and James Veazey followed him and at the door James Veazey said he heard a ( scream ?) and looked back and saw the said Allen down and the said Indian Mulatto with a stake in his hand standing by him ____ and that he saw the wound on the body of the said Dorrett and he answered he saw a dent above the right eye about an inch long. The ____ occasional his death ____ ____ ____ ____ ____the said Allen Dorrett and he answered ______ the ( Ippon ? ) and James Veazey took him up and carried into the said house of Indian John and ____ ____ as the ( Ippon ?) ____ by ____ of the said ____. (Piece missing) ____ ____ and the said James Veazey also interrogated as a witness and if he knew the said Indian Mulatto to and he answered yes ____ ____ ( piece missing) Allen Dorrett and how long he had known him and he answered he had known him about seven years and what he knew concerning the said Indian Mulatto to murdering the said Dorrett and answered that he was at Indian Johns house at Wicocomico Indian Town in this County on the 4th of Sept now ____ (piece missing) Indian Mulatto to and Allen Dorrett were in company and differ’d and said Indian Mulatto and the said Dorrett and they fought and the Indian Mullatto to throw at said Dorrett ( piece missing)____ ____ ____ and affor__went from him and the said Dorrett throw a ( piece missing) and Geo Curtis and the (Ippon ?) Went into Indian Johns house and ( piece missing) the ( Ippon ?) Heard a ( scream ?) and looked back and saw the said Dorrett down and Indian Mulatto to standing by him with a stake in his hand. Asked if he saw any ( blood ) on the body of said Allen Dorrett and the (Ippon ? ) answered he saw a ( piece missing) above his right eye about an inch long. The ____ ___occasional (?) Death ____ ____ the ( Ippon?) was a ____ ____ and when and where ____ the said Allen Dorrett he answered GEORGE CURTIS ( the Ioppn ?) ____ took him up and carried said Allen Dorrett into the house of Indian John where his body _____ by _____ of this clock _____ and _____ upon this Court having heard and _____this ____ are of opinion that he the said George the Indian Mulatto to afore__ cannot be tried but must be removed from hence _____ at this _____ Court for the fact____ ____hand accused and that the said Indian Mulla to George ___ ___ by the Sheriff ( piece missing) to this County Court and ___ ___ so moved to the publick ( piece missing ) _____ as soon as _____ ____ ____ to the ____ ____ at Williamsburg 10 according to Act of Assembly in high _____ _____ and provided and also ordered that the said GEORGE CURTIS AND JAMES VEAZEY enter into recognizance to make their appearance on the fourth day of the next Gen. Court to give their evidence on behalfe of our Sovereign Lady the Queen. ( piece missing) the said J__ ( piece missing) the Geo ????????????? Source: Order Book Abstracts 1713-1719 Northumberland County Court, October 1713

Fact Twenty One: August 1716-Indian John an Indian belonging to the Wicocomico Indian Town…feloniously burning two dwellings houses belonging to Maurice Jones, Gent…not tryable , dismissed…Enter into recognizance here in Court for their good behaviour Indian John, Wm Taptico, James Veazey and Indian Peter acknowledged themselves…security for his good behaviour especiallt towards Maurice Jones, Gent. Source: Northumberland County Order Books, 1713-1719, page 173.

Fact Twenty Two: Know all men by these present that I William Tapptico of the County of Northumberland in the colony of Virginia and King of the Wiccocomco Indians am holden and firmly bound unto Phillip Smith of aforesaid County and Colony in the full and perfect sum of 1000 pounds current money of Virginia to be paid unto the said Phillip Smith, his heirs, executors and administrators firmly by these as witness, my hand and seal the 31st day of December, 1718. Whereas the above bound William Tappticos father did in the year 1695/96 obtaining liberty of Smith of Purton in Gloucester County to seat, tend and occupy a certain neck of land commonly Old Town neck and as much lands and as much land att the Neck, of the said William Tapptico, Elinder his wife, Wm Jun. his heirs for ever. Now know ye that if the said William Tapptico , his heirs, male of his body begotten shall and will at all times at the season____request of him the said Phillip Smith, his heirs, 11 etc make over unto the said Smith all his right, title and interest in and to the above said Neck and shall and with all times forever exonerate, acquit and disclaim and forever defend the same from all manner of persons claiming form, by or under him the said William Tapptico or his heirs, male of his body begotten then the above obligation to be void and of none effect, in witnesses whereof I set my hand and seal this day and year above written. Signed, Sealed and Delivered William In Presence of Maurice Jones Tapptico Mark and Seal Bridgett X Ward This Feb. 07 1719/? This bond of Wm Tapptico Smith and was presented to Court by Rich Lee in benefit of the said Smith provided by the oath of Capt Maurice Jones and on this said Lees motion it’s admitted to record. Test. Charles Lee Source: Northumberland County Record Book, 1718-1726, pages 95 &

Fact Twenty Three: December 31, 1718-Received of Phillip Smith the sum of Fifty Pounds Sterling Bills of exchange which bills are to be accepted by Capt. Maurice Jones till the last of April, that the said Phillip Smith may have the liberty of exchanging the bills for current money of Virgina and to make his bargain with William Taptico mor firm in case any mistake be made concerning the said Taptico land for which the said Smith pays the sum of money payed by me into Maurice Jones hands. William Taptico Source: Northumberland County Record Book, 1718-1720, pages 95 & 96 12

Fact Twenty Four: February 17 1719-This receipt of Wm. Tappticos to Phillip Smith Gent. Was presented to court by Richard Lee in behalf of the said Smith and on Lees motion it’s admitted to record. Source: Order Book abstracts Northumberland County February 17, 1719.

Fact Twenty Five: Know all men by these present, that Wid. Elizabeth Taptico, Rich Smith, and William J. Morris of Northumberland County in Virginia do give and____justly indebted unto the Justices of the Peace for the County in the final sum of two hundred pounds Sterling, to which payment will truly to be made unto the said Justices or their successors for the time being, binds us our heirs, executors, administrators, jointly and personally for the whole family by these presents, sealed with Seals dated the 17th of June 1719. The condition of this obligation is such that if the above bound Elizabeth Taptico , Administrix of all the goods, chattels and credits of Wm. Taptico, deceased, do make or use to be made a true and perfect inventory of all singular these goods, chatels and credits of the said deced which have or shall come to the hands of person or knowledge of her the said Elizabeth Taptico or unto the hands or possession of any other person or persons for and the same______ _____do exhibit_____ _____to be exhibited into the County Court of Northumberland att such time, as she shall be by her presents required by the said court and the same goods, chattels, and credits of the said Deceased att the time of his death which at any time after shall come to the hands or possession of the said Elizabeth Taptico or into the hands or possession of any other person or persons for her do with and truly administer according to law and further do make a true and just account of her actions and doings therein whom there unto required of the said Court and all the rest and residue of the said goods, chattels, and credits which shall be found remaining upon the said administer Executorix ______the same being first examined and allowed by the Justices of this Court for the time being, shall 13 deliver and pay unto such person or persons respectively of the said Justices by their order or judgement shall direct person or persons to the courts in that cases made and provided abd if it shallhereafter appear that any Last Will and Testament was made by the Deceased and the executrix or executor , therein names do exhibit the same into this Court making request to have it allowed and approved accordingly in the said Elizabeth Taptico being there into required to send or deliver up letter of Administration approbation of such testament Being____and made in the said Court, then this obligation to be void and of no effect otherwise to remain in full____and virtue. Signed Sealed and Delivered Elizabeth Taptico In the presence of the Justices Richard Smith of_______in Northumberland Wm. Morris County Court by the partys above and the day year above is admitted to Record. Test: Charles Lee Source: Order Book Abstracts 1718-1726 Northumberland County 17th June 1719 pages 61 & 621719

Fact Twenty Six: Taptico’s Estate Inventory The following is a translated copy of William Taptico’s inventory, conducted by his wife Elizabeth. John K. Kent, Sam Jones, and Maurice Jones, as directed by the Northumberland County Court. To: 16 quart & pint bottles & one earthen bottle. To: 3 old pails 2 piggins 2 small runletts. To: 2 old looking glasses 1 box iron and 2 heaters. To: 3 small frying pans 1 old ladle and one skimmer 14 To: a small pair brass stillards and two pair flesh forks & taylor goose. To: 1 large & 1 small spitt and 1 pair fire tongs. To: 1 large gunn___a smaller___and a sword. To: 3 pair wool cards parcel of lumber, 1 marking iron, a leather apron, a bed___and mallet, 10 new fish hooks, 6 old do (do means ditto) 4 vials and a flute. To: a horse collor and and hamms 1 brass box 9 old lines and hooks. To: 1 runel & shot 47 lb pewter. To: a dozen spoons 1 tinn collender and funnel. To: 2 juggs 4 small butter potts a large do (ditto) To: a parcel old axes , hows & two old___. To: 4 iron wedges 1 spade 1 broad and 2 narrow hoes 2 iron pestles 34 lb (rod iron or wrought iron) 1 cross cut saw___rest and files a___tenant saw and 2 hand saws and a curry combTo: a table & 6 chairs 1 pewter plate. To: a large table and 2 chests 1 small chest 1 do(ditto) & 2 small boxes. To: a man’s coat vest and breeches. To: 8-1/2 yds Kersey To: 25 lbs 10 penny nails & 28 lbs 8 penny nails. To: 1 great coat 1 old do (ditto) and a vest and breeches. To: 2 vests 1 pair breeches & coat and a handkerchief. To: 7 yards Druggett 2-1/2 yds Shalloon 2 old hatts 2 pair old garters. To: 3-1/2 yds Dowlas & 2 pair old shoes. To: a parcel old books. To: 1 large iron pott & small do (ditto) 2 old do (ditto) To: 6 bushells salt 7 old tubs & 4 old runlets. To: 4 old 60 gallon casks and two thirty gallon do(ditto) To: 5 old baskets & some lumber. To: 4 old English milk pans & 3 Indian. To: old lumber and hoops. To: 2 bushells and 3 pecks wheat and 34 lbs dirty wool. To: 2 milk bag s & 2 corn sheets To: a feather bed 15 To: a feather bed and bolster 2 pillows 1 sheet 1 blanket 1 rugg 1 sett curtains and vallens 2 pillow. To: one feather bed a rugg two blankets bolster and bedstead. To: 1 great feather bedd 1 rugg 1 bolster 1 pair blankets 2 pillows 2 sheets and one bedstead. To: 1 old bed 2 old ticks 1 red rug 4 blankets and old bedstead and old blanket. To: 1807 pounds of tobbo recd last year at 28 pct. To: 1210 pounds tobbo due from George and Henry Curtis & some of the Indians at 5 percent. To: 5 yds of Kersey due from Henry Curtis. To: 1 fine shirt cloth and 1-1/2 yds wide check linen. To: 4 yds Kersey due from Mr Wale. To: a bill from Tho Curtis. To: 1677 pounds tobbo due from several persons. To: 220 pounds tobbo laid out at ___. To: 1 horse bridle & old saddle. To: an old mair saddle & bridle. To: a young horse. To: 6 lambs & 10 old sheep. To: an old bull. To: 6 cowes & 6 yearlings. To: 5 cows & 6 calfs.To: 1 grindstone & spinning wheel. To: 2 fish gigs & table linen. To: pair knitting and old breeches. To: a boat rigging and oars. To: 1 cannoe and 10 barrels Indian corn. To: ready money 6 shillings, 6 pence. To: Mr Phillip Smith’s bill 50 pounds. To: money in Mr. Edward Tucker’s hands 20 lbs, 10 shillings 6 pence To: Mr Lawrence Colqu [illegible] bills 1___exchange for 20 lbs, 9 shillings. To: balance in Mr. Perrys hands 2 lbs, 16 shillings , 2 pence. To: a hhd tobbo in Mr. Tuckers hands unsold. To: 34-1/2 pounds bacon sold & some paper. 16 To: 1 tobbo hhd 7 gall. Syder and a pound picked cotton. To: some old junk rope 1 pair tobacco tongs & a bridle belt. To: 3-1/2___slaughter hides 1 old rake and some candles. To: 1 pair wool cards. To: Due from George Curtis 55 lbs tobbo. To: 15 shillings 3 old blankets 5 hundred eight penny nails. To: thirty or forty hoggs in the spring of the year but there has not been seen half of them. To: a hhd tobbo I have no return Fowls which the appraisers would not concern themselves with. Elizabeth Tapp Pursuant to an order of Northumberland County Court Dated the 12th day of June wee the subscribers did meet att the house of Elizabeth Tapp being first sworne by Mr. Phillip Smith did appraise all and every part and parcel of the deceast Wm. Tapps estate as the said Elizabeth Tapp did put to our consideration and view. Given under our hands This 14th day of July 1719. Die Novembris 17, 1719 This inventory John Kent was presented unto Northumberland Sam Jones County Court by Eliza Tapp Maurice Jones administratrix of Wm Tapp decd and on Eliza Tapp her motion it’s admitted to record. Test: RdLee, Cl Cur Source: Northumberland County Record Book, 1718-1726, pages 79 & 80 record dated July 14, 1719

Fact Twenty Seven: Pursuant to an order of Northumberland County Court Dated the 12th day of June wee the subscribers did meet att the house of Elizabeth Tapp being first sworne 17 by Mr Phillip Smith did appraise all and every part and parcel of the deceast Wm. Tapps estate as the Given under our hands. This 14th day of July 1719 Die Novembris 17, 1719 This inventory was presented unto Northumberland County Court by Eliz Tapp administratrix of Wm. Tapp decd and on her motion it’s asmitted to record. John Kent Sam Jones Maurice Jones Eliz Tapp (Mark) Test: Rd Lee Ct Curtis

Fact Twenty Eight: August 24, 1722- Francis Thornton and Mary his wife of Essex Co. And Anthony Thornton and Mary , his wife of Stafford Co. To Elizabeth Tapp of Spotsylvania County, Dated Augt 24. 1722: Recd. Septr 4, 1722 500 lbs of tobacco. 450 a. of land in Spts. Co. “ on ye ridge that lies between y branches of Massaponax and the branches of Mattapony river” - part of a tract granted from Fran. And Antho. Thornton by patent April 19, 1720. Witnesses. Fran. Conway and Will Strother. Source: Virginia County records: Spotsylvania County, 1721-1800, edited by William Armstrong Crozier, page 88

Fact Twenty Nine: October 31, 1724-Elizabeth Tap of St. Geo. Par. Spts. Co. Va., widow, to my sons, William Tap and Vincent Tap, and my daughter, Charity Wood, wife of Bartholomew Wood, all of the said parish and County , 40 pounds sterling To my son Wm. Tap the plantation whereon I now live with 175 a. adjoining , in St Geo. Par., Spts Co. To my son Vincent Tap, 175 a. of land St. Geo. Par., 18 Spts. Co. To my daughter, Charity Wood, 100 a. of land in the sd parish and county-all the above mentioned land purchased by me of Francis Thornton and Mary, his wife; and Anthony Thornton and Winifred, his wife, as by deeds dated Augt. 5, 1772. Winesses: Moseley Battaley, Richard Johnson, James Williams. Recorded, November 3, 1724 Source: Virginia County Records: Spotsylvania County, 17721-1800, edited by William Armstrong Crozier, page 88.

Authors Comments: There are many more postings in the Northumberland County Records, however they pertain to William Taptico I and Elizabeth’s children, William, Charity, and Vincent, all which are going by the name of Tapp. ( Charity excluded, which is to married to Bartholomew Wood). I will discuss each fact that will lead to the death of William Taptico and his widow, Elizabeth buying land in Spotslyvania.

CHAPTER TWO Discussion: Shortly After the English arrived in Virginia, Capt John Smith made two scouting missions , the first one beginning 2 June, 1608 and took in the area of what is now Maryland and the outer shores of Virginia. One important piece of information that came from Smiths adventure is the following account of his scouting mission. “ The next day, fearching for frefh water, we could find none, the defect whereof forced vs to follow the next Eafterne Channell , which brought vs to the river Wighcocomoco. The people at firft with great fury feemed to aftault vs at laft fongs and daunces and much mirth become very tractable but fearching their habitations for water, we could fill but three barricoes, & that fuch puddle, that never till then we never knew the want of good water. We digged and fearched in many places, but before two daies were expired, we would have refufed two barricoes of gold for one of that puddle water of Wighcocomoco . Being paft thefe Isles which are many in number, but all naught for habitation, falling with a high land vpon the mayne, we found a great pond of frefh water, but to exceeding hot wee supposed it fome bath; that place we called poynt Ployer”. The Wighcocomoco River mentioned above is in Maryland, across the bay from the Potomac River. (Smith described the Wighcocomoco as people of small feature). After this discovery, the then current Wicocomico Council discussed the possibility that the VA Wighcocomoco originated in Maryland. However since a consensus could not be reached , I decided to step out on a limb and publish a theory that the VA Wighcocomoco broke away from the Maryland Wighococmoco. I realized this theory would most likely go against current history, and established historians. 

Capt Smith made his second scouting mission on the 24th of July 1608, again a very interesting discovery was made. This mission took in most of the Virginia Coast, i.e. up down and the mainland VA coast within the Chesapeake Bay confines. “ In the difcovery of this river fome call Rapahanock, we were kindly entertained by people of Moraughtacund; here we incountered our old friend Mofco (Mosco), a lufty (lusty) Salvage of Wighcocomoco; vpo the river of Patawomck, we fuppofed him fome French mans sonne, becaufe he had a thicke black bufh beard, and the Salvages feldome haue any at all, of which he was not a little proud, to fee fo many of his Countrymen.”

 This trip assured me that we now have two Wighcocomoco Tribes, one in Maryland and one in Virginia. Later in his trip Smith identified the Wighcocomoco as having a village at the tip of the Little Wighcocomoco River and a Chiefs village at Cinquack, near what is called Reedsville today. With this information in hand, I stepped up my research in Maryland and Virginia, I made several trips to Virginia and the Library in Salt Lake City, UT. However I found the information in Fact One while intensive surfing of Maryland on the net, while going thru the archives of Maryland. There I found the Proceedings and Acts concerning the war between the English and the Nanticoke Indians. I perused the document and could not believe my eyes when I seen the name William Tapticoe. I had what I thought all the information available on Taptico, so finding this information and the Tapticoe name in Maryland give me serious doubts concerning my research and was I wrong in my statement that Taptico was a Native American.

Much of this information I kept undercover for some time until I could get organized and tackle this new development. During this period, I confided in one person, Steve Martin, who offered valuable assistance in the research of this new find. I came up with a plan to tackle the Maryland situation head on, thus I scheduled 21 a three week research trip to Northumberland County Virginia Historical Society. While there, out of sheer luck, I found an obscure folder that had a posting concerning the selling of “Andrews Cove and Tapticoes Chance” on November 12, 1695 to Sarah Luft of Somner County by William Taptico and his wife Elenor of Northumberland. This provided the stimulus to research the Maryland records for further information concerning “ Taptico”. This research revealed additional postings concerning Taptico. (Facts: 2,3,4,5, & 7. During this period, I found Fact Six , in the Executive Journals of the Councill of Colonial Virginia held at James Citty 29th April 1683 concerning the peticon of Taptico about the harassment of the Indians by Capt John Smith ( not the Capt Smith of 1608). In November 1695, (Fact Seven) Taptico ( notice the “e” is missing) and his wife Elenor sold the Maryland property. Unfortunately nothing was mentioned if Taptico was in Virginia or Maryland at the time of sale. With the available information, it’s safe to make an assumption that this Taptico and the Maryland Taptico are the one and same. About 12 years later 1695, Taptico and his wife sold Tapticoes Chance ( Maryland property). From June 23 1699 to October 31, 1724, there were 20 additional postings concerning Taptico and the end of the tribal name of “Taptico”.

 What we hope to accomplish during this discussion section of the book is the unquestionable proof that “Taptico” was an Indian and possibly part Spanish. The proof we will use are Facts Sixteen thru Facts Twenty Eight. CHAPTER THREE 22 On April 19th 1710, King William Taptico presented three Indian Arrows to the Councill of Colonial Virginia to perpetuate the ownership of their tribal lands. Therefore we have proof the Wicocomico still existed and apparently recognized by the English. This action is direct and to the point…if Taptico was not the Chief or Indian, I’m sure the Northumberland Councill would not have acknowledge his presentation. Fact Seventeen completely blew me out the water…after all the years of research of the Taptico and Tapp line, I had not found another Taptico in my research. Now we have a George Taptico being held as an indentured servant to Richard Ball (dated 20 Feb 1712). I was not able to determine if he was a son to William Sr or a distant relative, however I’m convinced that he is a close relative of King William Taptico II.

No sooner had we regrouped and begin a new approach, we found that Fact Seventeen, Fact Nineteen, and Fact Twenty, may have confirmed without a doubt that Taptico and his wife are Indian. Fact Nineteen…reveals that John Vesey chief man of the Wicocomico Indians filed a complaint with the Councill of Virginia that George Ball ,( the same mentioned in Fact Seventeen) had detained for years as a servant, one George an Indian and supposedly Ball had a contract with his Mother also an Indian. George, the Indian departed from Ball’s service, Ball was now suing the Mother of said George. Based on extant information, this George and the George Taptico mentioned in Fact Seventeen are the one and same. This action took place, on 19th of October, 1713. Also in October, 1713, an incident happened in Wicocomico Indian Town that more or less tied Fact Seventeen, Fact Nineteen and Fact Twenty together and solidified the fact that Taptico and his wife were Indian. In the LFT book it was stated that Taptico and wife were English and Taptico only temporarily assigned 23 as Chief of the Wicocomico. The same month that George, an indentured servant ran away from Richard Ball’s (October 1713) home, George an Indian Mullato was booked by the Sheriff for murdering one Allen Dorrett at the Wicocomico Indian Town. The witnesses to this murder was James Veazy and George Curtis. Both were in Wicocomico Town the time of murder. Both were witnesses for England. James Veazey was a past Chief of the Wicocomico on or about 1688 until (?). It’s most likely John Vesey is the son of James Veazey and the Vesey that filed a complaint with the Councill of Virginia concerning Richard Ball holding George, an Indian. In Fact Nineteen , it’s stated that George is an Indian and the same with his mother. In Fact Twenty, it stated that George was an Indian Mulatto. If this George is the “George Taptico” identified in Fact Seventeen, then it imply’s that the father is of mixed blood or a European.

This brings me to my theory that Taptico is of mixed Spanish blood, ( recall Capt John Smiths description of Mosco, the Wicocomico guide that he thought to be of French descent.) My opinion is that Mosco was of Spanish descent. The Spanish had for a short period of time settlements in the Jamestown area in the 1550s , also the records that I retrieved from PRO in London England has information that Opencanow came from Mexico in the 1550’s and joined forces with Powhatan. Keep in mind these postings were made by various clerks of the court and facts could have been posted incorrectly such as the mother being Indian, she may have been a mulatto…to state that the postings are one hundred percent correct are not possible, however the circumstances and the dates are sufficient to arrive at a very strong assumption/theory. The murder trial of Allen Dorrett was moved to Williamsburg, the Capital of Virginia. Unfortunately the Court House in Williamsburg burned with it’s records. I believe that George the Mullato was hung, however proof has not been 24 found .

This this brings up another bit of interesting information that was posted on Gen Forum several years ago. A lady stated that William Taptico was hung and the English stole the land from the Wicocomico. This bit of information was before I had discovered George Taptico as an indentured servant of Richard Ball. I asked the lady for proof, but all she said was that her cousin had told her that she had seen it in a newspaper. ( They did not have newspapers in those days, they had what was called a broadside, normally a single page). She could not produce evidence that William Taptico was hung. After reviewing FACTS SEVENTEEN, NINETEEN, AND TWENTY, it’s possible that George ( Taptico) the mullato was sentenced to hang in Williamsburg. There may be some information in print concerning the hanging, which the lady mistook for William Taptico being hanged. Keep in mind it’s all assumption concerning the link between George Taptico and George the Mullato…also the hanging is an assumption. BUT, until further proof is found, I believe we can use this assumption in writing our lineage. After Elizabeth moved to Spotsylvania (and willed her land to her children, William, Chartiy, and Vincent and changed the name to Tapp ) there was not a George listed until 1843. In the event the George Taptico and the George Mullato were not the one and same, why wasn’t George Taptico mentioned or some evidence of his status ? This tends to strengthen the assumption that George Taptico, George the Mullato and the George that left the service of Richard Ball are all the same person. 

 At this time I would like to digress for a short time and clear up what some folks may consider facts. When Capt John Smith made his first trip to the outer shores of VA ( Maryland side), he mentioned the “Wighcocomoco” River and of course the Indians were called the Wighcocomoco Indians. A few years later, the name of the river was changed to the Pocomoco River and the Indians name changed to the Pocomoco Indians. Thus it’s difficult to determine if these two tribes were related. I made an assumption that they were related, based on the fact that in 1678 William Tapticoe was found in MD.

 An internet site was  recently discovered that  implies that they are spokesman for the Wicocomico Indian Nation. Please be advised if this  Internet site (organization) issues membership cards or in any way imply they represent the Wicocomico Indian Nation Inc, they and those that choose to participate will be held libel in Federal Court for infringing on the rights of the Wicocomico Indian Nation.

To give an example, if someone opened a Hambruger Joint and called it McDonalds, this someone would be brought to task for infringing on the rights of the real McDonalds. This applys to the Wicocomico Indian Nation Inc.

The following is Article IX of the Wicocomico Indian Nation Inc.(s)  Articles of Incorporation.

 Article lX of our Articles of Incorporation reads as follows:

The purpose for which the corporation is organized is to EXCLUSIVELY  research the Wicocomico Indians and descendants of the tribes, to educate the public concerning the culture and history of various tribes  within the Powhatan Confederacy and  TO REESTABLISH THE WICOCOMICO TRIBE THROUGH THE KNOWN DESCENDANTS OF WILLIAM TAPTICO and others that  are proven descendants of the Wicocomico, through the establishment of a Tribal Government and to PERPETUATE THE EXESTENCE OF THE WICOCOMICO TRIBE FOR FUTURE DESCENDANTS OF THE TRIBE AND ALL  FAMILIES DESCENDED THEREOF. Income producing activities are secondary in purpose. EXECUTED THIS 21 DAY OF JUNE, 2000.

This article gives us the right and authortiy to act upon the subject matter as listed in the article.

If any one has been  led to believe they are part of the “Official” Wicocomico Indian Nation Inc. please contact me immediately.    1-520-452-8291

Folks the item at the end of this posting is the courtsey of Vern Dander in response to a posting of mine  on Genforum. 

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Indian Military Post 1854-1866Nomi Lakee Indian Reservation

This is an article that I found concerning Vincent Geiger, a grandson of Vincent and Susannah Tapp. Vincent’s war records mentioned that a Vincent Geiger was appointed as Indian Agent for the Nomi Lakee Indian Reservation. Vincent Tapp Geiger is the son of Susannah Tapp and George Geiger.

The article is quite lengthy, therefore the article was edited for length, not content.

The U.S. Government established the Nome Lackee Military Post in 1854, two years after it set up the Tejon Military Post in Southern California. Nome Lakee existed for seven years , and was the direct result of the Indian Appropriation Act of March 3, 1852, which authorized the President

to make five military reservations from the public domain in the state of California, or the territories of Utah and New Mexico, bordering on said state, for Indian purposes. Provided that such reservations shall not contain more than twenty- five thousand acres in each…that said reservation shall not be made upon any lands inhabited by citizens of California, and the sum of two hundred and fifty thousand dollars is hereby appropriated …to defray the expense of subsidizing the Indians in California and removing them to said reservations for protection…(U.S. Congress , Indian Appropriation Act, 31^st Congress, 1^st Sess.,1852, Vol 8, Doc.59:8)

In 1854, Superintendent of Indian Affairs Thomas J. Henley directed the reserve to be located in Northern California, in what is now Tehama County. Henley, with the assistance of H.L. Ford and others, looked for land that would be appropriate for a military post. They eventually found several valleys suited for the purpose, and made contact with the Indians residing in the area, the “Nome Lacka.” The Indians agreed to gather together their remaining 300 people and settle on the reservation. From then on, the post was called the Nome Lackee Indian Reservation.

In 1858, Henley asked the State Senate and Assembly to send a joint committee to one reservation to report on its management, the condition of the Indians, and the likelihood of the reservation being able to fulfill its humane purposes. He suggested Nome Lackee as a representative reservation. Correspondents of the Alta California accused Henley of fraud in 1858, and he left his position as Superintendent of Indian Affairs in 1859, the year that the U.S. government began investigations of the entire reservation system.

Washington sent J. Ross Browne and G. Bailey to California to investigate charges of fraud, corruption, and dishonesty. (Goodman, 1966:148) Focusing on Henley and some of the agents he employed, Browne found evidence of fraud, maltreatment, and dishonesty on all reservations. He

charged Vincent E. Geiger, then the Indian Agent at Nome Lackee, “with selling equipment that belonged to the Reservation and of being involved with illegal transfers of the Reservation land to private parties.” (Goodman 1966:158) The land transfers occyrred after the reservation was improperly surveyed. A large portion of the reservation was omitted from the survey and subsequently acquired by Geiger. Geiger was also charged with indenturing Indians. Although the California Indenture Act of 1855 made this procedure legal, Browne found the practice deplorable, as did much of the public. The Sacramento Union Published a list of Indians indentured to Geiger and his associate, F. Titus, under the title “Indian Indenture: A Nice System of Slavery.” Geiger also felt that the lands of Nome Lackee” should be thrown open to the occupancy of our citizens.”

(Hislop, 1978:49-50)

The Secretary of the Interior called for the abandonment of Nome Lackee in 1859, based on seven facts, including statements that the Indians were peaceful, that Geiger’s personal conduct was objectionable, and that mismanagement of the reservation was evident. Although Geiger told people that Nome Lackee was prospering, outside reports indicate that it and the Indians were faring poorly.

On February 27, 1861, the Knights of the Golden Circle, a secret secessionist society form the south that had frequented the reservation with the knowledge of Geiger, attacked Nome Lackee. (Hislop, 1978:57) The reservation was soon in ruins and most of the Indians were removed to Nome Cult Farm, which had been made into a reservation called Round Valley. Geiger was removed from office. In 1863, he fatally stabbed Captain A.S. Wells, and was reported to have escaped to Victoria British Columbia.

It’s not uncommon in those days for Indians to side with the government or work against other tribes. This deplorable act by Vincent Geiger against the Indians is not proof that he belonged to the English side, however I believe that it would be difficult for someone with Indian blood (about 1/4 ) to be appointed to the position of Indian agent.

 

This bit of information was just added to the saga of Vincent Tapp, grandson of Vincent and Susannah Tapp. Thanks to Vern Dander to his posting to my message on the genealogy site.

 

 

Stockton Daily Independent

Stockton, San Joaquin Co. CA

 

Tuesday 27 October 1863

 

REWARD FOR MURDER- Shasta Lodge No.57, I.O. of O.F. has offered $250 reward for the arrest and delivery to the proper authorities of Tehama County, California, Vincent E. GEIGER, who on the night of the 13^th of October, 1863, at Red Bluff, California, murdered Captain A.S. WELLS, a member of Shasta Lodge No. 57, I.O. of O.F. Description : Vincent E. Geiger is about 40 years of age; about 5 feet 8 inches in hight; very heavy set; weights probably 215 pounds; has brown straight hair; blue or gray eyes; florid complexion; very short neck; wore long whiskers and mustache; has a careless, lazy gait; and chews tobacco incessantly. He has at times been a lawyer, and editor by profession; somewhat prominent as a politician and stump speaker, and formerly INDIAN AGENT AT NOME LACKEE RESERVATION, TEHAMA COUNTY.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Steven Black is now the Director of Enrollment and Membership. He descends from the Pinkney Tapp to James Willis Tapp line.
Anyone interested in membership in the Wiccocomico Nation can contact Steven at sblack901@yahoo.com
Charla

I would like to take a few minutes of your time to address the situation of the Wicocomico Nation. The definition of a tribe is a unit, a family unit. Tribes consentrated on the good of the entire tribe, their survival depended upon it.

I believe we can all come together in a united way with a vision to reestablish our nation. This can only be done if you are willing to work together and help me accomplish our goals.

We need to get the tribe active and appoint a council. Regular meetings of our council need to be set and an agenda prepared.

As you know we are on the list for federal recognition. In order to give our nation a better chance for this recognition I feel it is mandatory for us to push for recognition in the state of Virginia.

I hope you realize the research Al has done for us is priceless. I know of many tribes that have paid thousands of dollars for documentation that he has researched at no cost to us. Some tribes have never found documentation such as we are fortunate to have.

At this time it would be a wonderful thing to reclaim our heritage. Our ancestors lost their homes, beliefs and a sense of who they were in the face of the soon to be dominant majority. Don’t each of you wish to hand down our rich heritage to your children and grandchildren? To let them know they were the original inhabitants of this great country.

Please join with me in making the vision of the Wicocomico Nation a reality not a dream. To do nothing with what we have been given would be such a terrible waste.

Thank you for your time and I hope to hear from all of you in the near future.   charlatootle@yahoo.com

                                           Charla    

I feel that it’s time for me to step down as the Council Chairman  and turn it over to someone  that is younger and will be able to bring fresh life to the tribe. Wicocomico Indian Nation will still remain a corporation and enjoy the privilages that go with the corporation status. The corporation will remain in my hands, however the over sight of the tribe will be in the hands of Charla Tootle, she is the Weroance and  will make decisions and coordinate day to day activities with the membership.  This is  in accordance with the Articles of Incorporation.  I sincerely hope that Charla receives your cooperation and she will need your assistance.

Charla Tootle  comes from  the  Lewis Tapp and Anna Montague line. Charla is very active in various Native American concerns, and has other Native American Lines in her immediate family.

Charla will be posting on this blog site. Her email will be posted shortly.

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December 8, 2008

Charla’s email address is…charlatootle@yahoo.com   I hope that all of you that read this blog site will contact her and welcome her aboard as the Council Chairwomen. 

 With the economy as it is, this may be our chance to take our country back. I don’t recall of reading history  about the Powhatan Confederacy having a repression.  ;o)

Shortly I will post Laura Barrs ancestery on line. Perry and Lauras marriage produced one child, Marie Tapp. Both Perry and Marie  as is Laura are listed on the  Creek Nation rolls. Apparently Perry and Laura divorced or Perry left town, not clear on the situation. Most of you are aware of Perrys ancestery, which leads to King William Taptico. When Laura’s ancestry is listed, the lineage for Perry will be  complete.

Evening !  Sorry  I have not posted lately on my blog, but I’m following the election closely. This is going to be the most important election since the Civil War. The future of the country will depend on who is elected. The wrong person and we are finished as a Democracy.

And if your visiting my web site; www.wicocomico-indian-nation.com …..you can now scroll down the home page and you will find tap-tico… click on it and it will take you to my blog.

my new email is:  eagleman1@localnet.com