Notes from the family archive
Family Stories & Discoveries
A living notebook for the records we uncover, the stories we inherit, and the questions that keep the search moving forward.
Current research
Mary's name opens a new branch of the family story
William Womack Sr.'s will directly identifies Mary Williams as his daughter and William II as his son. A newly preserved archival surname file then carries Mary's household from Goochland to Granville County and names ten reported children. The chapter keeps that rich family account visible while separating it from the contemporary records that prove the core relationship.
View the chapter indexPatriotic service and corrected identity
Revolutionary service and pension record
Halifax militia lieutenant and DAR patriot
Prince Edward patriot, elder, and father of Allen and Tignal
Bedford soldier, Sarah's allowance, and the guardians' chancery case
Great Guinea Creek mill owner and unresolved Revolutionary-service lead
Goochland daughter, Granville matriarch, and a newly opened Williams branch
Browse the notebook
Four collections, one evolving story
Newly Discovered Records
Documents, names, dates, and connections that add something new to the family record.
Entries will appear here as the research continuesFamily Stories & Oral History
Memories and stories passed through the family, preserved with their sources and context.
Entries will appear here as the research continuesUnanswered Questions
Mysteries, uncertain relationships, and research leads that still need stronger evidence.
Entries will appear here as the research continuesResearch Notes & Corrections
Updates to earlier conclusions and a transparent record of how our understanding changes.
Entries will appear here as the research continuesHow the journal works
From family lead to family history
- 1Follow the lead
A name, memory, record, or question gives the search a direction.
- 2Weigh the evidence
Sources are compared and uncertainty remains visible.
- 3Share the finding
Confirmed discoveries become part of the family chapters and archive.
Continue exploring