Person Page - 1

     Moody was born at Sanford, VA, but was raised at Saxis, VA. After attending Saxis Elementary School he attended Temperanceville High School from 1935 to 1940. At the age of 12 he dislocated his hip and was a patient in Crippled Children's Hospital in Richmond, VA. After his return home he remained on crutches for some time. At the age of 15 he began driving a truck hauling seafood for his father. He was drafted into the Army in March of 1942 and saw limited duty do to his dislocated hip. "Mrssrs. Moody Miles Jr. and Milton Drewer Jr. left Tuesday, 9 Mar 1943, for Camp Lee, then to be transferred to Salem Army Air Base, Salem Oregon," (Pen. Ent., 12 Mar 1943). While in the Army he served as an ambulance driver and supply clerk. He was stationed at Salem, OR; Fort Lewis, WA; and Palo Alto in Van Nuys, CA. While on furlough in June of 1944, he returned home and married Kathryn Drewer at the Presbyterian Church, Market St., Pocomoke City, MD. They were married by the Rev. Roy M. Shoat (E.S. News, 30 Jun 1944). They returned to Van Nuys, CA, together. After his discharge in March of 1946, they returned to Saxis and lived with Kathryn's parents. They began building a home in the spring of 1949 and moved into it in September of 1949. He continued to drive trucks hauling seafood and produce for various employers all over the eastern half of the United States until 1970 when he began working for Holly Farms Poultry at Temperanceville, VA. He continued to drive long distance for them until he became the assistant dispatcher. He injured his shoulder at Holly Farms in June 1976. After Holly Farms, he drove a truck for Vernon Drewer, Jr. of Saxis, hauling surf cams from Jew Jersey to Saxis. He retired from truck driving in 1983 and began drawing his Social Security. For the last 10 years of his life he worked at the Lewis Brothers' Crab House at Saxis, in the spring and summer months, to supplement his Social Security and to be with his lifelong friends. He died in July of 1994, at the age of 73 years, after a two year bout with congestive heart failure. Several months before his death he developed lung cancer and was under going radiation treatment at the time of his death. Moody was born on 5 March 1921 at Sanford, Acc Co, VA. He was the son of Moody Kellam Miles Sr. and Nolan Franklin Stant. Moody was living on 16 January 1942 at Saxis, Acc Co, VA, (Selective Service).² Moody was a member of the armed forces serving at US Army, World War II, PFC.³ He married Nellie Catherine 'Kathryn' Drewer on 20 June 1944 at Pocomoke City, Worcester Co, MD.⁴ Moody died on 25 July 1994 at P.G. Hospital, Salisbury, Wic Co, MD, at age 73. His body was interred at Downing's Cem, Oak Hall, Acc Co, VA.⁵

     Kathryn was born at her Grandmother Kilmon's house on their farm near Keller, VA, as it was customary at that time for mothers to return to their mother's house to have their babies. She attended Saxis Elementary School until 1931 and then Temperanceville High School until 1935. There were only 11 grades at that time. After high school she worked for her Uncle Milton Drewer as an office worker in his seafood business at Saxis, VA. She married Moody K. Miles Jr. when he came home on furlough during World War II. The wedding took place on a rainy June night at Pitts Creek Presbyterian Church on Market Street in Pocomoke, MD. She returned to California by train with Moody, where they lived in a one room apartment at 16746 Sherman Way and later on Sepuloeda Blvd, Van Nuys, in the Sanfernando Valley near Los Angeles, CA. They lived in California from 1944 to 1946. While in California she worked in an aircraft manufacturing plant as an electrician's helper running wires inside small remotely controlled airplanes. Marilyn Monroe also worked at the same plant during this time. They returned to Saxis in April 1946 and moved in with her parents until their house was finished. They moved into their new house in September 1949. It was at this time that she realized that she had parkinson's disease which prevented her from returning to work. She became a local corespondent for the Eastern Shore News, writing the Saxis column for a number of years. Nellie Catherine 'Kathryn' Drewer lived at P.O. Box 121, Saxis, VA. Her common name was Kathryn. Nellie was born on 7 April 1919 at Keller, Acc Co, VA.¹ She was the daughter of John Cornelius 'Neil' Drewer Sr. and Mary Evva Killmon. Nellie was on the roll of the at Meth Ch, Saxis, Acc Co, VA.² She married Moody Kellam Miles Jr. on 20 June 1944 at Pocomoke City, Worcester Co, MD.³ Nellie died on 26 June 2000 at Woodbridge Nursing Home, Woodbridge, VA, at age 81.⁴

     Moody was born on 12 January 1878 at Saxis, Acc Co, VA. His death certificate shows his birth as 12 Jan 1878 as do family Bible records. However, the Acc Co birth records show 5 Sep 1878. He was baptised Sep 1911. A birthday party to celebrate his 60th birthday was held on 12 Jan 1939 (Pen. Ent., 6 Jan 1939). This would put his birth in Jan 1879..^1,2 He was the son of Jesse Thomas Miles I and Susan E. Wessells. He was listed as a resident in the census report in 1880 at Saxis, Acc Co, VA.³ He married Eveline 'Eva Lena' Lewis on 14 July 1897 at Somerset Co, MD.⁴ Moody was on the in 1908 roll of the at Meth Ch, Saxis, Acc Co, VA.⁵ He married Nolan Franklin Stant on 12 May 1920 at New Church, Acc Co, VA. Mrs. Nolan (Stant) Russell of Sanford and Mr. Moody Miles of Saxis were quietly married last Wednesday evening, 12 May 1920 (Acc News, 21 May 1920)..⁶ Moody died on 10 March 1954 at Saxis, Acc Co, VA, at age 76. Mr. Moody Kellam Miles Sr. died at home at Saxis on 10 Mar 1954, aged 76 years. Interment was in the Miles Cemetery, Saxis. Survivors were listed (Pen. Ent., 11 Mar 1954). Family members report that he had 3 strokes near the end of his life and he died as a result of the last one, which left him only able to blink his eyes during the last 8-9 days of his life..⁷ His body was interred at Miles North Cem, Saxis, Acc Co, VA.⁸

     Nolan was born on 20 June 1888 at Sanford, Acc Co, VA.¹ She was the daughter of Wilbur Z. Stant and Amanda L. Marshall. Nolan was listed with her parents in the census of in 1900 at Atlantic Dist, Acc Co, VA. She was shown as daughter Nolan F. Stant, age 12 and at school in HH#235 headed by Wilbur Z. Stant, a 35 year old oysterman..² Nolan was on the in 1900 roll of the at Meth Ch, Sanford, Acc Co, VA. According to church records, Nolan Miles transferred from Sanford to Saxis in 1928..³ She married Charles Elliott Russell on 28 June 1905 at Meth Ch, Sanford, Acc Co, VA. He was shown as Charles E. Russell, a 22 year old sailor born in Washington, DC, the son of Joseph & Florence Russell and she was shown as Nolan F. Stant, age 16, the daughter of Wilber & Amanda Stant. They were married by A.L. Chesser..⁴ She married Moody Kellam Miles Sr. on 12 May 1920 at New Church, Acc Co, VA. Mrs. Nolan (Stant) Russell of Sanford and Mr. Moody Miles of Saxis were quietly married last Wednesday evening, 12 May 1920 (Acc News, 21 May 1920)..⁴ Nolan was living in 1951 at Saxis, Acc Co, VA.⁵ Nolan died on 7 December 1956 at Salisbury, Wic Co, MD, at age 68. Mrs. Nolan F. Miles, widow of Moody K. Miles, of Saxis, died on 7 Dec 1956, aged 68 years. She was the daughter of Wilbur Z. Stant and Amanda Marshall Stant. Survivors were listed (Pen. Ent., 13 Dec 1956). Susan Porter Taylor, her granddaughter, reports that she was a diabetic for many years and took insulin by daily needles. She fell and broke her arm and when it did not heal normally, she went to the doctor for further evaluation. Tests revealed that she had colon cancer and a colostamy operation was performed, resulting in removal of her rectum and a receptor bag was then required, through an opening in her side. This also did not heal completely due to her diabetis. A nurse named Mrs. Sikes was hired to care for her in her home at Saxis, where she continued to live for about 6 more months. She then developed pneumonia and was moved to the hospital in Salisbury, MD, where she died. Her older daughter Florence was also a serious diabetic and her younger daughter Juanita was showing some signs of the early stages of diabetis when she died suddendly..⁶ Her body was interred at Miles North Cem, Saxis, Acc Co, VA.⁷

     "Neil" Drewer was in the 1900 Saxis household (HH) #434 and the 1910 Saxis HH#24 with his parents, John R. and Kate Drewer. For some unknown reason, he and his wife and family were not listed in the 1920 census. Neil was born in his parent's home at Saxis, where he lived the later part of his life. He worked on the water with his father to help support the family when the weather permitted and went to school in the winter months when the weather was bad. He stopped school after the third grade. He loved to read and study the Bible and history and was quite good at math and reading maps and charts. As a young man he built an ice boat which many young people enjoyed when the Pocomoke Sound was frozen across to the Maryland shoreline. It was reported that he once swam in a cow pond naked. As a little fellow he and his sister, Mae, who was two years older than him, were sent out to the garden to bury a dead baby chicken. As Mae was digging the hole with a wide grubbing hoe, she accidentally cut him across the top of his head. He carried that scar the rest of his life. He also had a scar across the back of his right hand which he got from the propeller on a bateau crabbing boat when a rope got caught around it when he was crabbing. He and his bride, Evva Kilmon, who was teaching at the Saxis elementary school at the time, eloped to Crisfield, MD, in a boat during a December snowstorm. After his marriage he and his wife lived with his parents until their home was built. During World War I he worked in the shipyards in Newport News, VA, but his wife and children lived at home in Saxis, VA. After World War I he returned to Saxis and worked was a waterman and mariner. In 1935, after the death of his father, he bought his parent's home and moved his wife and three youngest children from the home he built into his father's home. His oldest son, Earl, and his new bride, Madge, bought the house Neil built and their first child was born there. He sailed freight boats all over the Chesapeake Bay area. During World War II he and his two sons enlisted in the US Coast Guard Auxiliary which temporarily admitted his 65 foot boat, the J.C. DREWER, into service as a Coast Guard buoy tender. "Capt. Neil Drewer of the US Coast Guard spent a few days recently with his family (Pen. Ent., 12 Mar 1943). He died suddenly of a heart attack in 1960. The following information was provided by Evelyn (Lewis) Powell, one of Neil's nieces. "Uncle Neil was born a couple of years after my mother. He was very active and although it was said the Drewers couldn't sing he evidently did. Mother said he was in some sort of entertainment where he sang a song about "The Owl and the Pussy Cat set out to sea in a beautiful Pea Green Boat." That is all I remember of the song. When my family went to live at Grandpa's after my father, Arnold Lewis, died in 1920, we found in the attic a big bass horn which we tried to blow, but never had enough wind to get a sound. Mother said it was Uncle Neil's and he had belonged to a "town band" when he was young. After my father died, Uncle Neil and Aunt Evva would come to visit with their children, Earl, Kathryn, and Myrtle. J.C., was born later. He would get us children to put our chairs in a circle and play games with us. One game I remember was pass the thimble, which had a little water in it and when one lost the game they got the thimble of water. We will always remember Uncle Neil as very religious. When he was a young boy, a man from Temperanceville, Bill Nock, who had his own Bank, came over for a visit and, as always, he was asked to stay for dinner. He was a surly sort and the children didn't like him. For once Grandma didn't expect company and there was no dessert. Grandpa had been to Baltimore and had brought home a whole bunch of bananas and he suggested they be dessert. Mr. Nock said he didn't know if he would like them, he had never tasted them. Uncle Neil, in not a real soft voice, said, "the old son of a bitch hadn't tasted them because he was too stingy to buy them." The children thought it was funny, but it didn't go over real big with Grandma and Grandpa. The Christmas after my father died Uncle Neil and Aunt Evva gave me a child's china tea set, which I treasured, though some of it was glued together. I was pleased to pass it on to their great-granddaughter, Rebecca Lynn Miles. My grand-children are all boys and I didn't think they would appreciate a tea set. I always felt a close relationship with Uncle Neil and Aunt Evva. Earl and I were the same age and he and J.C. have always been close to us. There is no doubt that the whole Drewer family was active in the church. Uncle Neil used his money many times to help pay for electricity and fuel when his family probably needed things. He worked hard and gave to poor people and was loved by everyone." Mr. John C. Drewer Sr., a retired waterman and veteran of World War II, died at his home at Saxis on 21 Apr 1960, aged 70 years. Survivors were listed (Pen. Ent., 28 Apr 1960). His common name was Neil. John was born on 21 February 1890 at Saxis, Acc Co, VA.¹ He was the son of John Riley Drewer and Kate Elizabeth Griffin. He was listed as a resident in the census report in 1900 at Saxis, Acc Co, VA.² He married Mary Evva Killmon on 16 December 1909 at Crisfield, Som Co, MD.³ John was living on 17 July 1917 at Saxis, Acc Co, VA, (Army Registration).⁴ John was a member of the armed forces serving at US Coast Guard, World_War_II.⁵ John died on 21 April 1960 at Saxis, Acc Co, VA, at age 70.¹ His body was interred at Downing's Cem, Oak Hall, Acc Co, VA.⁶

     Jesse was born on 30 September 1838 at Accomack Co, VA.³ He was the son of Parker Miles (III) and Ann Tyler. Jesse was listed with his parents in the census of in 1850 at Accomack Parish, Acc Co, VA. He was shown as Jesse Miles, age 9 in HH#791 headed by Parker Miles, a 51 year old farmer..² He married Matilda A. Spence on 2 February 1858 at Somerset Co, MD. The marriage record, as recorded in the referenced source, shows her as Matilda A. Shores. However, family records show her as Matilda A. Spence..⁴ Jesse was listed as a head of household in the census of in 1860 at Saxis, Acc Co, VA. He was shown as Jessey T. Miles the head of HH#361, a 22 year old oysterman with real estate valued at $150 and personal property valued at $75. Listed with him were Matilda Miles, age 21 and George Corbin, age 9, who was evidently the son of Jessey's sister Mary Elizabeth Miles, who had married Stephen Corbin..⁵ He married Susan E. Wessells on 2 January 1868 at Accomack Co, VA. He was shown as Jesse Miles, a 30 year old widowed oysterman, the son of Parker and Ann Miles and Susan was shown as the 22 year old daughter of Betsy Wessells. They were married by John E. Bundick..¹ Jesse was on the in 1898 roll of the at Meth Ch, Saxis, Acc Co, VA.⁶ Jesse died on 28 March 1913 at Saxis, Acc Co, VA, at age 74. His death certificate shows his mother's maiden name as Ann Justice. This is inconsistent with other information which indicates that his mother was Ann Tyler, daughter of Jabez Tyler, of Cattail..³ His body was interred at Miles North Cem, Saxis, Acc Co, VA.⁷

     Susan E. Wessells who married Jesse T. Miles in 1868 and Margaret Jane Wessells who married John W. Linton in 1853 both have Betsy Wessells as thier mother on their marriage records and a father was not listed. It is, therefore, assumed that Margaret and Susan were sisters. The 1850 Census shows Elizabeth (Betsy) Wessells, age 36 (bc 1814), without a husband and living with Henny Bayly, age 46 (bc 1804), who is also without a husband and has a small child named Wm. Bayly, age 3. Elizabeth's children are shown as Wm. Wessells, age 9, and Susan, age 3 (bc 1847). Margaret is shown in the 1850 Census, age 14 (bc 1836), living with Elijah Kelly. The 1860 Census shows a Betsy Wessells, age 57 (bc 1803), living on Saxis with John Spence. This age does not match the one in the 1850 Census by about 11 years, but it could be the same person. Margaret, age 22 (bc 1838), is shown as married to John Linton in the 1860 Census, but Susan could not be located in the 1860 Census. Susan is shown in the 1870 Census, age 22 (bc 1848), as the wife of William Miles on Saxis, but based on the names of the children and later Census data, the William was really Jesse Tho. Miles. Susan Miles, widow of the late Jesse Miles, died at home at Saxis, Monday, 13 Feb 1933, aged 89 years (b.c. 1844), survivors were listed (Pen. Ent., 18 Feb 1933). Susan E. Wessells was born illegitimate. Susan E. Wessells was also known as Sude Miles. Susan was born circa 1847 at Accomack Co, VA. Her Virginia Death Certificate shows her birth as 10 Apr 1844, which is about 3-4 years earlier than 1850 and 1870 census records show..² She was the daughter of Daniel Wessells and Elizabeth 'Betsy' Wessells. Susan was listed with her mother in the census of in 1850 at Accomack Parish, Acc Co, VA. She was shown as Susan Wessells, age 3 in HH#979 headed by Henny Bayly, age 46. Also listed was Elizabeth Wessells, age 36 who was evidently her mother..³ She married Jesse Thomas Miles I on 2 January 1868 at Accomack Co, VA. He was shown as Jesse Miles, a 30 year old widowed oysterman, the son of Parker and Ann Miles and Susan was shown as the 22 year old daughter of Betsy Wessells. They were married by John E. Bundick..¹ Susan was on the in 1898 roll of the at Meth Ch, Saxis, Acc Co, VA.⁴ Susan died on 13 February 1933 at Saxis, Acc Co, VA.⁵ Her body was interred at Miles North Cem, Saxis, Acc Co, VA.⁶

     Wilbur Z. Stant was also known as Will Stant. He was born illegitimate. Wilbur was born on 22 December 1865 at Sanford, Acc Co, VA. According to the 1900 census, Wilbur was born in Dec 1864..² He was the son of William H. 'Bill' Silverthorn and Emily Ann Stant. Wilbur was listed with his mother in the census of in 1870 at Accomack Parish, Acc Co, VA. He was shown as Wilber Stant, age 4 in HH#AT591 headed by Emily Stant, age 26..³ Wilbur was listed with his parents in the census of in 1880 at Accomack Parish, Acc Co, VA. He was shown as son Wilber Silverthorn, a 15 year old oysterman in HH#261 headed by Wm. Silverthorn, a 32 year old oysterman..⁴ He married Amanda L. Marshall on 25 May 1887 at Sanford, Acc Co, VA. He was a 22 year old oysterman, the son of Emma Stant and she was age 19. They were married by J.W. Carroll. Mr. Wilbur Z. Stant and Miss Amanda Marshall were married on 25 May 1887 at Sanford by Rev. J.W. Carroll (Pen. Ent., 28 May 1887)..¹ Wilbur was on the in 1898 roll of the at Meth Ch, Sanford, Acc Co, VA. According to church records, Wilbur Stant was on the Sanford roll in 1898, 1900, 1908 and 1917, took vows on 25 Aug 1901 and certificate received in 1911..⁵ Wilbur was listed as a head of household in the census of in 1900 at Atlantic Dist, Acc Co, VA. He was shown as Wilbur Z. Stant, the head of HH#235, born Dec 1864, a 35 year old oysterman, married 13 years. Listed with him were wife Amanda Stant, age 29, daughter Nolan F. Stant, age 12, daughter Beula D. Stant, age 10; son Earnest G. Stant, age 8; and son Mallory S. Stant, age 5..⁶ Wilbur was listed as a head of household in the census of in 1910 at Atlantic Dist, Acc Co, VA. He was shown as William Z. Stant the head of HH#239, a 45 year old oysterman who had been married for 23 years. Listed with him was his wife Amanda L. Stant, age 39 and married for 23 years, son Earnest G. Stant, age 17 and Mallory S. Stant, age 15..⁷ Wilbur was listed as a head of household in the census of in 1920 at Atlantic Dist, Acc Co, VA. He was shown as Wilbour Stant the head of HH#308, a 54 year old truck farmer. Listed with him was his wife Amanda Stant, age 48..⁷ Wilbur died on 2 April 1951 at Saxis, Acc Co, VA, at age 85. Mr. Wilbur Z. Stant, formerly of Sanford, died on 2 Apr 1951, aged 85 years. He was the son of William S. and Emily Stant. Born and raised at Sanford, VA, and buried at the Lewis Cemetery. Survivors were listed (Pen. Ent., 6 Apr 1951). Contrary to this obituary, his father was William Silverthorn, who never married Emily Stant..⁸ His body was interred at Lewis Cem, Shad Landing Rd, Sanford, Acc Co, VA.⁹

     According to church records, Amanda L. (Marshall) Stant was on the Sanford roll in 1898, 1900, 1908 and 1917 and her vows and baptism was 29 Jul 1900. According to her obituary, Mendie Stant died at her home in Sanford after being confined to her bed about 2 months. She had taught her Sunday School Class at Sanford Methodist Church, since the age of 14, a total of 48 years. She wrote the following instructions for her funeral on 4 Feb 1927, 5 years before she died. "To the ones that find this, I want them to see that this is read to Will (my husband). My Text, 5th Chapter of 2nd Corinthians and the 1st verse. Hymns to be sung. He Leadeth Me, Rock of Ages, Abide With Me Last Falls The Evening Tide. I would like for those two men from Temperanceville to sing those 3 songs, then all of the Sunday School to sing Going Down The Valley One by One. Telegram to Willie Marshall (her brother), his address Box 284, Blackstone, VA. To Parksley, to Eva Mason, and to let Flora Justice also know. Go after Cora. Do not send, but someone go after her. Mr. Reynolds and Mr. Hastings, to preach the sermon. Keep me just as long as you can. I want to have Mr. Johnson to have charge of my body. Embalm me and if I should die Thursday, keep me untill Sunday, or untill all of my loved ones gets here. If they or Will wants flowers, why they can get them. You will find everything you need, for my use in the package before you. Get anything together. You look in the package and you will find everything that you will need for my use. My Pall Bearers - Horace Bundick Web, John Drummond, Dr. Dick. I want my Sunday School Class to view my body first of all at the church. May God bless you all, live right for Death is coming to you too. Make me look nice. Dollie, after they put me in the casket undo my drawers around my waist. I don't want nothing tight around me. I don't want my dress tight around my neck. Dollie, Bet Miles, Josie, and Julia, to dress me. It is sad for me to write this just to think this is my last message to you. God bless you all. I am gone the way of all earth, it is God's plan. Just be ready to meet him. Good Bye until the Resurrection Morn. Don't forget me. Tell the Sunday School class every time they hear Sanford Church bell ring for Sunday School to think of me." Mrs. Amanda L. Stant, wife of Wilbur Z. Stant, died at her home at Sanford on 8 Apr 1933, aged 62 years, survivors were listed (Pen. Ent., 15 Apr 1933). Amanda L. Marshall was also known as Mendie Marshall. Amanda was born on 11 July 1870 at Saxis, Acc Co, VA.¹ She was the daughter of James W. 'Jim' Marshall and Olivia S. 'Levie' Thomas. She married Wilbur Z. Stant on 25 May 1887 at Sanford, Acc Co, VA. He was a 22 year old oysterman, the son of Emma Stant and she was age 19. They were married by J.W. Carroll. Mr. Wilbur Z. Stant and Miss Amanda Marshall were married on 25 May 1887 at Sanford by Rev. J.W. Carroll (Pen. Ent., 28 May 1887)..² Amanda was on the in 1898 roll of the at Meth Ch, Sanford, Acc Co, VA.³ Amanda was listed with her husband in the census of in 1900 at Atlantic Dist, Acc Co, VA. She was shown as wife Amanda Stant in HH#235 headed by Wilbur Z. Stant, a 35 year old oysterman. She was born Jul 1870, age 29 and married 13 years, with 4 children and 4 living..⁴ Amanda was listed with her husband in the census of in 1910 at Atlantic Dist, Acc Co, VA. She was shown as wife Amanda L. Stant in HH#239 headed by William Z. Stant, a 45 year old oysterman. She was age 39, married for 39 years with 4 children born and 4 children living..⁵ Amanda was listed with her husband in the census of in 1920 at Atlantic Dist, Acc Co, VA. She was shown as wife Amanda Stant, age 48 in HH#308 headed by Wilbour Stant, a 54 year old oysterman..⁶ Amanda died on 8 April 1933 at Sanford, Acc Co, VA, at age 62.⁷ Her body was interred at Lewis Cem, Shad Landing Rd, Sanford, Acc Co, VA.⁸

     John Riley Drewer was known as Captain Drewer, one of the best known waterman on the Chesapeake Bay and a highly esteemed citizen. He was an oyster planter and waterman for 54 years. He owned the 5-log canoe built at Saxis by Bonnie Moore in 1907. She was named the "Katie D." after his wife. She later went by the name "Mustang." She is now at the Mariner's Museum at St. Michael's, MD, awaiting restoration. He also operated a oyster shucking house in the winter and a crab shedding business in the summer. In addition to being a successful oyster planter, he always took an active part in every movement looking to the betterment of those engaged in the business. He was a lifelong Democrat and on the Democratic County Committee for 25 years. During the term of Virginia Governor, Claude A. Swanson, he was appointed oyster inspector and Marine Police Captain in charge of the boat "Saxis." The "Saxis" had a small cannon on the bow of the deck. He held this position for 11 years. Capt. John Drewer of the oyster steamer Saxis, arrested five (individuals) for illegal dredging near Watt's Island, Tuesday (E.S. Hearld, 17 Nov 1921). He was a director of the Oysterman's and Planter's Protective Association and an advisor to Virginia Commission of Fisheries. His death removes one of the most influential and highly esteemed citizens of Saxis. He was known as the poor man's friend, and gave employment to a large number of people until he was forced by ill health to retire from business. For a number of years he had been a useful, active and consistent member of the Saxis Methodist Church, serving as Steward and Superintendent of the Sunday School. He was also a member of the Parksley Jr. O.U.A.M. The following information was provide by Evelyn (Lewis) Powell, one of his granddaughters. "He had a black leather rocking chair, a gift from his first wife, Kate. Whoever was sitting in that chair when he came home was told that it was his chair, even Senator Carter Glass and Governor Swanson. Kate would be so embarrassed. When his first wife died in December of 1920, his youngest daughter, Janie, whose husband Melvin, was away from home a lot, and her daughter Miriam, went to live with him. Arnold Lewis, the husband of his oldest daughter, Mae, died the following April. After Arnold died, Mae, along with her children Virginia, John, Evelyn and Basil, moved in with him. Janie and her daughter Miriam went back to their home. It was a very busy household because Mae insisted on caring for her own children. His youngest son, Milton, was not yet married and still living with him. The seafood business and politics were high on the agenda. Every Sunday morning all the men in the Drewer family, including his brothers and their children, met in the dinning room to re-hash the seafood business. You could almost cut the smoke from the pipes and cigarettes. He often lost his pipe and glasses. The glasses were always on top of his head and the pipe was sometimes in his grandsons' (John and Earl) mouth in the barn. Evelyn had to memorize a poem and he asked her to recite it for him. Afterwards he told her he had to memorize one and forgot to prepare for it. He was the first one called on so he said, "Butcher killed a calf, that's half - Threw it over the wall, that's all". The teacher gave him a beating. Mae and her children lived with him until he married again. His second marriage was to his first wife's sister, Mae. He was compassionate and giving. He gave to people in need and the church. Whenever any men needed a work boat he would furnish them one. All he asked was that they sell their seafood to him. They were not always grateful, but that never stopped him. He was always there when his children and grandchildren needed him. He helped lay the plans for the first dredging of Starlings Creek by the US Army Corps of Engineers and the building of the public dock with county funds which was later leased to the various seafood businesses of Saxis. He died of paralyses before this dream became a reality." Capt. John R. Drewer died at Saxis on 22 Dec 1934, aged 70 years, survivors were listed (Pen. Ent., 5 Jan 1935). He is buried next to his wife "Kate" in the Drewer Cemetery on Saxis, although there is no markings relative to him on their joint tombstone. John was born on 10 February 1865 at Saxis, Acc Co, VA.² He was the son of John Wesley Drewer and Eliza Jane Miles. He was listed as a resident in the census report in 1870 at Saxis, Acc Co, VA.³ He married Kate Elizabeth Griffin on 11 June 1886 at Temperanceville, Acc Co, VA. He was shown as John R. Drewer, a 21 year old mariner, born & living in Acc Co, the son of Jno. W. & Eliza Drewer and she was shown as Kate E. Griffin, age 21, born & living in Norfolk, the daughter of Cornelius & Virginia A. Griffin. There were married by Montcalm Oldham..⁴ John was on the in 1898 roll of the at Meth Ch, Saxis, Acc Co, VA.⁵ He married Mae Griffin circa 1922.⁶ John died on 22 December 1934 at Saxis, Acc Co, VA, at age 69.¹ His body was interred at Drewer Cem, Saxis, Acc Co, VA.⁷

     Kate Griffin and Aggie Myers, who married Severn James Crockett, were cousins and were from Portsmouth, VA. Kate's mother, Virginia A. Foster, was a sister to Maria Foster, Aggie's mother, who married Robert Myers, also from the Norfolk area. The following information was provided by Mrs. Lovie (Bonawell) Marshall (1891-1981), in an interview in 1977 with Kathryn (Drewer) Miles and her son, M.K. Miles. Mrs. Lovie was 85 years old at the time. "There were three girls from an orphanage in Norfolk, VA; Ellen, Aggie and Kate. First, Ellen came to Saxis and married Jim (or John) Linton. Then Aggie came to visit her friend Ellen and married Severn James Crockett. Then Kate came to visit Aggie and she married John Drewer. I would like for some of the young generation today to run into people like she was. I used to stay up there a lot with (her daughter) Janie. She'd come after me every weekend and say, "Miss Bonawell, let Lovie stay with me on Saturday night and come home Sunday morning." A lot of times I didn't want to leave Mama, but it was no getting away. She'd let her children play hide and seek in the back. In that kitchen is a sliding window, I don't know if its there now or not, but she'd let them slide that window back and they'd jump out that window and play hide and seek. She would laugh over it and laugh over it. She'd bake a cake and when that cake was cool, that cake was cut and we all had a piece and either coffee or milk or water or whatever we wanted. Whatever (her son) Milton done, it was perfectly all right. One morning Janie and I were fast asleep. In our face come a whole big cup full of water. All in the bed and all. Janie hollered out, oh my, Milton's thrown a whole cup of water here in this bed and everything's wet. We had to get up. Miss Kate laughed over it and laughed, and she said, without a doubt he must be most mischievous child that ever lived in the world. She put dry things on that bed and told us to get back in there and sleep as long as we wanted. No fussing whatever. He had a knack, he'd get back of me, we'd be playing cards, and he'd get back of me, and grab me by my ankles and I'd think he would kill me, nearly bout. Mr. Johnny Drewer said one night, "consorn" was his word. Consorn if I ain't a gone'a beat that boy nearly to death some of these times. She was a little old woman and sweet. Oh, she had the sweetest face. Everybody loved her, Miss Kate Drewer." The following information was provided by Kate's granddaughter, Evelyn (Lewis) Powell. "Kate's father died when she was very young and her mother was unable to provide for the children. She sent them into homes of friends to live. No one can remember the name of the family in Berkeley, VA, who raised Kate. While living at Berkeley, Kate became best friend with Maggie French, who lived across the road from her. Maggie's father, known as Captain French, was engaged in marine construction. He often came to Saxis on business and Maggie and Kate would come with him. Maggie meet and married Mr. Henry Lewis, who was from Saxis. He inherited Capt. French's business, which is now known as the Norfolk Dredging Company(?). Maggie and Henry Lewis lived in Norfolk, VA. They had a daughter named Berniece who married first, Mr. Vellines. After their divorce she married second, William Fisher, who was from Sanford. They had a general store at US Route 13 and Parksley Road, now known as Fisher's Corner. Maggie also had a daughter named Evelyn, who died at an early age. I was named after her. Another close friend of Kate's was Melissa, who married Mr. Olds. On one of Captain French's business trips, Kate meet John R. Drewer. After knowing John for only three weeks, they planned to be married. She went back to Berkeley and got her clothes and on the train from Cape Charles she wondered if she would know him when the train stopped at Hallwood. She said as soon as she saw him she knew. Although the family that was raising Kate objected to her marriage and disowned her, Kate married John R. Drewer and stayed at Saxis. The family that had raised her did finally visit her at Saxis. She was a tiny woman, under 5 feet tall, weighed 98 pounds and wore a size 2 shoe when she got married. She had a jolly disposition and was an excellent dancer. She said she often danced holes in the soles of her shoes before she married John. She told her children that their feet must belong to the Methodist Church because they couldn't seem to get them off the floor when she tried to teach them how to dance. They built their home in several stages. Their home has since been destroyed, but after John R. and Kate died it became the final home of Neil and Evva Drewer. The seafood business and politics where high on the agenda. They had a lot of friends and every special church meeting would have "protracted" services and the ministers were invited for supper and Kate was the last one to go to church. One time the church was filled to capacity so someone took a chair from the pulpit and sat it in front facing the congregation. Since she was only 4 feet and 10 or 11 inches tall, she was embarrassed to catch herself with her feet crossed swinging her legs. She never sat in a pulpit chair again. She died paralyses." Mrs. Kate Drewer, wife of Mr. John R. Drewer, died on 26 Dec 1920, aged 56 years. She survived a stroke about one hour, survivors were listed (Acc News, 7 Jan 1921). Kate was born on 1 January 1865 at Portsmouth, VA.¹ She was the daughter of Cornelius L. Griffin and Virginia A. Foster. She married John Riley Drewer on 11 June 1886 at Temperanceville, Acc Co, VA. He was shown as John R. Drewer, a 21 year old mariner, born & living in Acc Co, the son of Jno. W. & Eliza Drewer and she was shown as Kate E. Griffin, age 21, born & living in Norfolk, the daughter of Cornelius & Virginia A. Griffin. There were married by Montcalm Oldham..² Kate was living after 1886 at Saxis, Acc Co, VA.¹ Kate was on the in 1898 roll of the at Meth Ch, Saxis, Acc Co, VA.³ She was listed as a resident in the census report in 1900 at Saxis, Acc Co, VA.⁴ Kate died on 26 December 1920 at Saxis, Acc Co, VA, at age 55.¹ Her body was interred at Drewer Cem, Saxis, Acc Co, VA.⁵

     Ellen was born in 1830.³ She was the daughter of Revel Lewis and Permelia 'Milly' Marshall. Ellen died in 1851.³

     Parker was born circa 1799 at Accomack Co, VA.² He was the son of John Miles. He married Rosanna Marshall on 3 January 1820 at Accomack Co, VA. Aaron Marshall was the security on the M.L.B. of Parker Miles of Jno. and Rosanna Marshall of Sam. The marriage register shows they were married on 18 Jan 1820..^1,3 Parker was listed as a head of household in the census of in 1830 at Accomack Parish, Acc Co, VA. He was shown as age 30-40 with a wife of the same age: 1 male, age 5-10; 2 males under age 5; 1 female, age 40-50, and 2 females, age 5-10.. He married Ann Tyler on 31 March 1835 at Accomack Co, VA. Gilbert Marshall and Jabez Tyler were securities on the M.L.B. of Parker Miles, widow, and Ann Tyler. This Jabez may have been her brother or her father. Her father, Jabez Tyler, is also listed as the father of a David Tyler who married Margaret Simpson in 1827..³ Parker bought land on 2 January 1847 at Saxis, Acc Co, VA. The deed showed that, with 10 days public notice and a commissioner, Middleton Mason, Gilbert M. Crockett and other plaintiffs and Annanias Crockett and others defendants, of the one part and Parker Miles of the other part, Parker Miles, being the highest bidder, became the purchaser of an estimated 28 acres for $620, bounded on the North and East by lands of Peter Evans, on the South by Parkers Creek, on the West by Pocomoke Sound, and on the East further by the free school land, being part of Saxis Island..⁴ Parker was listed as a head of household in the census of in 1850 at Accomack Parish, Acc Co, VA. He was shown as Parker Miles the head of HH#791, a 51 year old farmer with real estate valued at $1,000. Listed with him were the following Miles: Anna, age 35; James, a 26 year old laborer; Severn P., an 18 year old laborer; Permelia, age 12; Jesse, age 9; Virginia, age 8, Eliza J., age 6; Noah, age 4; Louisa, age 2; and George, a 23 year old sailor..⁵ Parker sold land on 29 August 1853 at Saxis, Acc Co, VA. The deed showed that Parker Miles and wife Ann sold to John Miles, 2 acres on Saxes Island for $80, bounded on the North by Parker Miles, on the West by Pocomoke Sound, on the South by John Miles, and on the East by Starlings Creek. Parker Miles also sold more land to John Miles in the same area..⁶ Parker was listed as a head of household in the census of in 1860 at Saxis, Acc Co, VA. He was shown as Parker Miles the head of HH#370, a 60 year old farmer with real estate valued at $1,500 and personal property valued at $500. Listed with him were the following Mileses: Eliza J., age 17; Noah, age 14; Susan, age 11; and Mary A.E., age 10. Also listed were the following Corbins: Elizabeth, age 36; Stephen, age 7; and Mary E., age 5..⁷ He made a will on 27 August 1883 at Accomack Co, VA. His will specified that his son Noah was to have all of his real and personal property, but that he pay to all of Parker's children, himself included, the sum of $600 to be equally divided amongst said children. Executor: Noah Miles. Signed: Parker (his X mark) Miles. Witnesses: Samuel B. White, Emory D. Groton and James H. Fletcher..⁸ Parker died on 28 February 1884 at Saxis, Acc Co, VA. He was shown as age 90, which would have put his birth at 1794, which is contrary to the 1850 census which showed his birth as 1799..⁹ Parker's will was probated on 28 April 1884 at Accomack Co, VA. His will was proved by the oaths of Samuel B. White and James H. Fletcher, two of the witnesses..⁸

     She may have been named Mary Ann, as her son Noah E. Miles, listed his mother's name as Mary on his marriage record, while some of her other children listed their mother's name as Ann. Her daughter Susan Marshall's death record showed her mother as Nannie Miles. Inconsistent with the above is the fact that her son, Jesse T. Miles' death certificate showed his mother as Ann Justice. However, it is likely that Ann's mother was a Justice, a sister of James Justice of R. who named her in his will of 1848. Ann was born circa 1815 at Accomack Co, VA. The 1850 census puts her birth at 1815, but her 1857 death record puts it at 1818..^2,3 She was the daughter of Jabez Tyler Sr. and Leah Justice. She married Parker Miles (III) on 31 March 1835 at Accomack Co, VA. Gilbert Marshall and Jabez Tyler were securities on the M.L.B. of Parker Miles, widow, and Ann Tyler. This Jabez may have been her brother or her father. Her father, Jabez Tyler, is also listed as the father of a David Tyler who married Margaret Simpson in 1827..⁴ Ann sold land on 27 June 1839 at Accomack Co, VA. It was on this date that Parker Miles (Grantor) and wife Ann, sold 73 acres of 365 acres of undivided land in Acc Co formerly belonging to Jabez Tyler Sr., deceased, to Jabez Tyler for $4.00 (Acc Deeds, 1839-1841, p. 53).. Ann was named in her uncle's will on 13 January 1848 at Accomack Co, VA. She was shown as Ann Miles, wife of Parker Miles of Saxes Island, in the will of James Justice of R. In a Codicil he also named Virginia & Hetty Mears, daughters of Thomas Mears. Since Thomas Mears had married Catharine Justice, as sister of James of R., it is also assumed that Ann Miles was the daughter of one of his other sisters, whose name has not been determined..⁵ Ann was listed with her husband in the census of in 1850 at Accomack Parish, Acc Co, VA. She was shown as Anna Miles, age 35 in HH#791 headed by Parker Miles, a 51 year old farmer..³ Ann died on 17 May 1857 at Saxis, Acc Co, VA. She was shown as Ann Miles, who died of cancer at the age of 39 years, the widow of Parker Miles, who gave the information..⁶

     Where was she in the 1850 Census? Elizabeth was born on 30 August 1813 at Accomack Co, VA. The Wessells Prayer Book shows her birth as 1813, the 1860 census puts it at 1825, the 1870 census puts it at 1835 and her 1875 death record puts it at 1835. This is certainly a wide spread of birth dates, and would lead one to question if this is the same person in the census as was named in the prayer book..² She was the daughter of Walter Wessells Sr. and Mary 'Polly' Boston. Elizabeth was named in her father's will on 16 October 1833 at Accomack Co, VA. She was named as daughter Elizabeth and left part of the balance of the slaves and part of the residue of the estate..¹ Elizabeth was listed with her brother in the census of in 1860 at Accomack Parish, Acc Co, VA. She was shown as Elizabeth Wessels, age 35 (bc 1825) in HH#877 headed by Henry L. Wessels, age 49. Her sister Ann was also in this household and her brother John Wm. Custis Wessels was next door. (Note: Her age doesn't match the 1813 in the Wessells Prayer Book.).³ Elizabeth was listed with her brother in the census of in 1870 at Accomack Parish, Acc Co, VA. She is shown as Elizabeth Wessels, age 35 (bc 1835) in HH#AT422 headed by Henry Wessels, age 50 and a farmer. Also in the household was William Wessels and his 3 children. (Note: Elizabeth, Henry and William were siblings. As in 1860, her age does not match the 1813 in the Wessells Prayer Book.).⁴ Elizabeth died on 8 April 1875 at Accomack Parish, Acc Co, VA, at age 61. She was shown as Eliz. Wessells, age 40, the child of Walter & Polly Wessells, born in Accomack Co, a housekeeper and unmarried. The cause of death was pleurisy. Her brother Henry L. Wessells gave the information. (Note: Her age doesn't match the 1813 in the Wessells Prayer Book.).⁵

     His common name was Bill. William was born circa 1844 at Accomack Co, VA.¹ He was the son of Elizabeth Silverthorn. William was listed with his mother in the census of in 1850 at Accomack Parish, Acc Co, VA. He was shown as Wm. Sylverthorn, age 6 in HH#820 headed by Elizabeth Sylverthorn, age 26..² William was listed with another family in the cenus of in 1860 at Accomack Parish, Acc Co, VA. In addition to being listed with his mother, William Silverthorn, age 16 and a sailor, was also listed with Richard Fletcher, the head of HH#180, age 45 and farming, along with his brother Winfield..³ William was listed with his mother in the census of in 1860 at Accomack Parish, Acc Co, VA. He was shown as William Silverthorn, age 13 in HH#39 headed by Elizabeth Silverthorn, age 35..³ William was listed as a head of household in the census of in 1880 at Accomack Parish, Acc Co, VA. He was shown as Wm. Silverthorn the head of HH#267, a 32 year old oysterman. Listed with him was his wife Emily Silverthorn, age 41 and keeping house; son Wilber Silverthorn, a 15 year old oysterman; daughter Dollie Silverthorn, age 8 and son Littleton Silverthorn, age 6. (Note: If all the ages are correct, than Wm. would have been age 17 when his son Wilber was born. The 1850 census puts Wm.'s birth at 1844, which would have made him age 21 when his son Wilber was born.).⁴ William was listed as a head of household in the census of in 1910 at Atlantic Dist, Acc Co, VA. He was shown as William H. Silverthorn the head of HH#241 on Drela Road, a 66 year old single sailor..⁵ William died circa 1924.⁶ His body was interred at Feddeman Cem, Shad Ld Rd, Sanford, Acc Co, VA.⁶

     According to Emily A. Stant's death certificate, she was not married, widowed nor divorced, but single. The name of the informant was left blank, implying that this information was provided by Dr. O.R. Fletcher, who signed the death certificate. The 1850 and 1860 Census listed her as Emily A. and Emily Ann Stant, in the household of Gillett and Sally Ann Stant. Her death certifcate shows her as Emily A. Stant. However, the 1900 and 1910 census show her as Emily S. Stant and her tombstone shows her as Emily Susan Stant. Her great-great-granddaughter, Barbara Mae (Witham) Martin, has Emily's miniture Methodist Episcopal Church Hymn Book, published in 1863, which has her signature as Emmie S. Stant, dated 24 Jan 1864. She was called "Mom Mim" by her granddauther Nina and great-granddaughter Juanita. Emily was born on 23 March 1840 at Sanford, Acc Co, VA. Her Bible shows she was born on 22 Mar 1840 and her death certificate shows 23 Mar 1840..¹ She was the daughter of Gilbert Stant and Sally Ann Miles. Emily was listed with her parents in the census of in 1850 at Accomack Parish, Acc Co, VA. She was shown as Emily A. Stant, age 8 in HH#625 headed by Gilbert Stant, a 48 year old farmer..² Emily was listed with her parents in the census of in 1860 at Accomack Parish, Acc Co, VA. She was shown as Emily Ann Stant, age 19 in HH#221 headed by Gillett Stant, a 57 year old farmer..³ Emily was listed as a head of household in the census of in 1870 at Accomack Parish, Acc Co, VA. She was shown as Emily Stant the head of HH#AT591, age 26 and keeping house. Listed with her were Wilber Stant, age 4 and Infant Stant, age 4 months, born in May. She was 3 doors from her parents, Gilbert and Sally Stant, who were in HH#AT588..⁴ Emily was listed with her husband in the census of in 1880 at Accomack Parish, Acc Co, VA. She was shown as wife Emily Silverthorn, age 41 and keeping house in HH#261 headed by Wm. Silverthorn, a 32 year old oysterman..⁵ Emily was listed as a head of household in the census of in 1900 at Atlantic Dist, Acc Co, VA. She was shown as Emily S. Stant the head of HH#363, born Apr 1839, age 61 and widowed, with 4 children and 4 living. Listed with her was her son Lenora Stant, born Oct 1872, a 17 year old oysterman..⁶ Emily was listed as a head of household in the census of in 1910 at Atlantic Dist, Acc Co, VA. She was shown as Emily S. Stant the head of HH#229 on Shad Landing Road, age 71 and single, the number of children were 5 and 4 were living. She was living alone..⁷ Emily was listed as a head of household in the census of in 1920 at Atlantic Dist, Acc Co, VA. She was shown as Emma Stant the head of HH#306, a 75 year old widow. She was living alone..⁸ Emily died on 20 December 1927 at Sanford, Acc Co, VA, at age 87.¹ Her body was interred at Drummond Cem, Flag Pond Rd, Sanford, Acc Co, VA.⁹

     On 29 Sep 1857, James Marshall and his wife Olivia, sold 1/2 acre on Saxes Island for $130 to George Davey Marshall. It was bounded by James Marshall and the Pocomoke Sound (Acc Deeds No. 40, 1855-1858, p. 596). According to the birth record of James W. Marshall's son, John T., in 1858, James was a farmer living at Jenkins Bridge and John T. was born on Saxis Island. In 1860, James W. Marshall, age 27 and an oysterman, and his wife Olivia, age 20, were living next door to his mother and brother Aaron. The value of his real estate was listed as $250. They had an 8 month old son, Benjamin. Also living with them was a black male, named Spencer Coke, age 10. Evidently, their first son, John T. Marhsall, must have died. In 1870, there were four children in the household. In 1880, he was listed as a 45 year old oysterman. Wife Olivia S., was 39 years old. Three other children had been added to the household. In Memoriam: In sad but loving rememberance of my dear father, James W. Marshall, who departed this life 22 years ago, 11 Jan 1906, and also my dear mother, Olivia S. Marshall, who departed this life 9 years ago, 6 Aug 1919; by Mrs. Amanda L. Stant, Sanford, VA (E.S. News, 5 Aug 1927). His common name was Jim. James was born on 4 June 1833 at Saxis, Acc Co, VA.² He was the son of Aaron Marshall Sr. and Matilda 'Tinny' Fisher. James was listed with his parents in the census of in 1850 at Accomack Parish, Acc Co, VA. He was shown as James Marshall, a 19 year old oysterman in HH#802 headed by Aaron Marshall, a 58 year old farmer with real estate valued at $500. This was on Saxis Island..³ He married Olivia S. 'Levie' Thomas on 26 February 1856 at Accomack Co, VA. According to their Acc Co marriage record, Olivia S. Thomas and James W. Marshall were married "on the road to Saxis.".¹ He was listed as a resident in the census report in 1860 at Accomack Parish, Acc Co, VA.^4,5,6 James was on the in 1898 roll of the at Meth Ch, Sanford, Acc Co, VA.⁷ James died on 9 January 1906 at age 72.²

     Her common name was Levie. Olivia was born on 19 March 1840 at Accomack Co, VA.¹ She was the daughter of John Thomas Jr. and Eliza A. Lewis. Olivia was listed with her parents in the census of in 1850 at Accomack Parish, Acc Co, VA. She was shown as Olivia S. Thomas, age 11 in HH#1142 headed by John Thomas, a 37 year old farmer..² She married James W. 'Jim' Marshall on 26 February 1856 at Accomack Co, VA. According to their Acc Co marriage record, Olivia S. Thomas and James W. Marshall were married "on the road to Saxis.".³ She was listed as a resident in the census report in 1860 at Accomack Parish, Acc Co, VA.⁴ Olivia was living before 1880 at Saxis, Acc Co, VA.¹ Olivia was on the in 1898 roll of the at Meth Ch, Sanford, Acc Co, VA.⁵ Olivia died on 6 August 1919 at Saxis, Acc Co, VA, at age 79.¹

     John Wesley Drewer's death certificate indicates that he was born in Baltimore, MD, in 1847 and died 10 Sep 1912. His age was listed as 69, which would have made his birth 1843. This is a closer match to the 1850 Census information, which showed his age as 9, which would have made his birth 1841. The information on the death certificate was provided by his son, Lloyd Drewer. His place of birth was also listed as Maryland in the 1880 Census. Others say that he and his sister came to Saxis from the Guilford or Cattail area of Acc Co, VA. This is based on the story told by some older members of the Drewer family that as children he and his sister, Rebecca Ann or "Becky," came walking across the marshlands east of Saxis, each with a pillow under their arm. They did not have any adults with them. In 1850, John Drewer, age 9, and his sister Rebecca, age 13, were both living on Saxis with their step-father, William Russell Sr., age 30, and his son, William Russell Jr., age 15, all in the household of Gillet Marshall. William Russell had married John and Rebecca's widowed mother, Susan, in 1849. Their Acc Co Marriage License Bond showed her as "Susan Drury, widow of Drury" with Gilbert Marshall and Richard S. Taylor listed as securities. The name "Drury" has been found listed among Irish pedigrees, which is further substantiated by the middle names of two of John's sons, John "Riley" and Lloyd "McDuffy" Drewer. After John was married he and his family lived in the home at Saxis across the "new lane" from the Drewer family cemetery. After his death this was the home of his son, Lloyd, and after Lloyd's death, the home of his son, Claude. The family cemetery was set aside form a portion of his property. He was a waterman and farmer. He was known as very patriotic and a christian gentleman. He requested that the "Stars and Stripes," the U.S. flag, be flown form the top of his tombstone once a year on the 4th of July. This was done by a member of the family, usually his youngest son, Marvin Drewer, until his death in 1967. Mrs. Olevia Dennis, a Saxis resident, is quoted as saying "if Mr. John Drewer told me the sky will fall tomorrow, then I fully expect that it would." This attested to her faith in his character. He acquired the property on the east side of Saxis, bordering the marsh where his home stood. He raised his family here. He also purchased the land he farmed including several lots across the county road and westward to the shoreline. He gave each child a lot along the "new" lane which he marked off for their use. He sold others to his grandchildren. The following information was provided by Mrs. Lovie (Bonawell) Marshall (1891-1981) in an interview in 1977 with Kathryn (Drewer) Miles and her son M.K. Mrs. Lovie was 85 years old at the time. "Now what my mother said she could remember of them was that they come, there weren't no road here, walking across the marsh with their things wrapped up into a table cloth or a sheet or something and a stick run through it on their back. They saw these two children coming across the marsh and they knew that there were deep holes there and people went and guided them. When they came in they had nowhere to go and they told them that nobody lived in that house and to go and live in there. So they went there and lived. Aunt Becky was older than Mr. John Drewer was. When he got old enough he went out and was quite lucky in his work. He bought that whole piece of land where Minnie's house is at and all of that, clear to the shore. I think Mama said for $250. Well nobody wanted it and he had a right to buy it. And he gave all of his children lots off of it. Mr. Drewer gained in wealth, he was right well to do, and was a good christen man. When you seen him coming into church, with a flower in the back of him, you could tell he was going to address the Sunday school. He was a waterman and farmer. I'll tell you what a good man Mr. Drewer was. My sister said that if she was going to die instead of anybody else having her funeral she'd want Mr. Drewer. When his wife, Miss Liza Jane Drewer, was paralyzed they went after him out on the water and he come-a-shore. He didn't go in the room where she was at, he went in the room towards going up the outlet there, and got down on his knees. They said he prayed for 2 hours and when the doctors tried her temperature she was paralyzed. He said, she's going to survive this, and she did. Now she talked a little bit thick tongued, but leaving out that, she got all right for a while. He had that home built that he lived into. He lived where Hidla Drewer lives. His will, written on 18 July 1912, states: I, John Wesley Drewer of Saxis Island, Virginia being feeble in body but sound in mind and feeling, that I would like to leave my estate after my death in a business like shape, in such as I have always tried to keep may affairs in, make this my last Will. To enable me to divide my Real Estate intelligently among my heirs I have employed the County Surveyor to survey and make plat of the main body of my land on Saxis Island and this survey and plat is hereby made a part of my will. The Grave Yard as given on the plat is reserved for the benefit of the Drewer Family. (1) I give to my son John R. Drewer Lots 1, 16, 17, but the same is to pay to my wife Elisa J. Drewer the sum of $63.50 on account of the larger size of the above lots. (2) I give to my son Lloyd M. Drewer Lots 2, 15 and 19. (3) I give to my daughter Maud E. Taylor Lots 3, 14 and 20. (4) I give to my son Wm. Cleveland Drewer Lots 4, 13 and 21. (5) I give to my daughter Mary J. Linton Lots 5, 12 and 22. (6) I give to my son Harvey A. Drewer Lots 6, 7 and 8, but the same shall pay to my wife Elisa J. Drewer the sum of $38.50 on account of the higher valuation of said Lots. (7) I give to my son Marvin T. Drewer Lots 9, 10 and 11, but the same shall pay to my wife Elisa J. Drewer the sum of $103 on account of the higher valuation of said Lots. (8) I leave Lot #18 to be sold to the highest bidder among my seven children for a sum of not less than $100.00, the purchase price to go to my wife Eliza J. Drewer. (9) All of my Real Estate on the North side of the County Road not disposed of before this by Deed and not shown on the plat I give unto all of my seven children, the same to be sold and money to be equally divided between them. (10) I give to my wife Elisa J. Drewer the Home Place for life and after her death to my son Lloyd M. Drewer, but to him only in consideration of a sum of money equal to 6/7 of the actual value of the place, said value to be ascertained by three appraisers chosen by a majority of my heirs and the money to be divided among my other six children. (11) Should my son Lloyd M. Drewer be unable or not willing to meet the above obligation within one year after the death of my wife or one year after my death, should I be the longest liver, another one of my heirs shall have the same privilege to purchase the Home Place and should not one of them be able or willing to do so, then the same shall be put up at Public Auction and the purchase money be equally divided between them. (12) I also give to my wife Elisa J. Drewer all my personnel property, house hold and kitchen furniture, my half interest in the Canoe "Nancy Hanks" and the whole of the old canoe called "Edward." (13) I also give to my wife Eliza J. Drewer all notes due me now outstanding as follows: from John R. Drewer due me $150.00; from Lloyd M. Drewer due me $75.00; from W. Cleve. Drewer due me $75.00; from Mary J. Linton due me $75.00; from Harvey A. Drewer due me $75.00; from Peace Milburn balance of note and all cash money after paying all my bills and burying expenses. (14) And should my wife Eliza J. Drewer leave this earth before I do, then in event of my death all property given to her by this Will, excepting the Home Place shall be divided equally among my children. 15) Whereas my son Harvey A. Drewer has by far the largest interest in the oyster planting grounds owned by us I hereby appoint him as sole manager of the same and not one of the other heirs shall have the right to work on or take oysters form our grounds without his knowledge and consent and he shall, after payment of first cost and all expenses, distribute the proceeds of my share equally among my seven children excepting however the ground sub-leased to Mrs. E.A.F. Fletcher, who receives one fourth of all the profits after payment of the first cost of $400.00 has been made to her, the balance of said profits to be equally divided among my children. The oysters planted by me in partnership with my son John R. Drewer however shall be handled by him and my share of the profits be equally divided among my children. (16) I hereby appoint my sons John R. and Harvey A. Drewer executor of this my last Will without Bond or Remuneration for their trouble excepting actual expenses. Witnesses: George N. Weaver, James T. Weaver and Fred. E. Ruediger. John was born in 1843 at Baltimore, MD.² He was the son of John Drewer and Susan Simpson. John was listed with another family in the cenus of in 1850 at Accomack Parish, Acc Co, VA. He was shown as John Drewer, age 9 in HH#793 headed by Gillet Marshall, a 47 year old farmer. Also listed was Wm. Russell, a 30 year old laborer, who was evidently his step-father. This was on Saxis Island..³ John was living after 1850 at Saxis, Acc Co, VA.¹ He married Eliza Jane Miles on 12 November 1863 at Somerset Co, MD.⁴ John died on 10 September 1912 at Saxis, Acc Co, VA.² His body was interred at Drewer Cem, Saxis, Acc Co, VA.⁵ John's will was probated on 24 October 1912 at Accomac, Acc Co, VA.⁶

     Eliza was born on 17 September 1843 at Saxis, Acc Co, VA.² She was the daughter of Parker Miles (III) and Ann Tyler. Eliza was listed with her parents in the census of in 1850 at Accomack Parish, Acc Co, VA. She was shown as Eliza J. Miles, age 6 in HH#791 headed by Parker Miles, a 51 year old farmer..³ Eliza was listed with her father in the census of in 1860 at Saxis, Acc Co, VA. She was shown as Eliza J. Miles, age 17 in HH#370 headed by Parker Miles, a 60 year old farmer..⁴ She married John Wesley Drewer on 12 November 1863 at Somerset Co, MD.⁵ Eliza was on the in 1898 roll of the at Meth Ch, Saxis, Acc Co, VA.⁶ Eliza died on 20 February 1915 at Saxis, Acc Co, VA, at age 71. Her VA Death Cert #2326 showed her as Eliza Drewer, widow, born 17 Sep 1843, died 20 Feb 1915, a housekeeper, who died of pneumonia at the age of 72 years, 5 months and 5 days. She was born at Saxis, Acc Co, VA. Her father name was not shown and her mother's name was shown as Eliza J. Drewer, born at Saxis, Acc Co, VA. The information was given by her son J.R. Drewer of Saxis, VA. (Note: Evidently her son listed his mother's name instead of her mother's name.) Mrs. Eliza Jane (Miles) Drewer was known as a very stingy woman. Mrs. Carletta McCready remembered that when she was a girl she used to help her do housework to earn spending money. One time she worked all day, cleaning, scrubbing floors, washing and ironing clothes, washed dishes, etc. When she asked for her pay at the end of the day she gave her a quarter which Carletta handed back to her and left the house. She and her husband owned a love seat, platform rocker, and straight chair set which were passed down through several generations. The love seat was handed down through John R. Drewer, Mae (Drewer) Lewis, Kathryn (Drewer) Miles and is now in the possession of M.K. Miles. Mrs. Eliza Drewer, wife of the late John W. Drewer, of Saxis, died last Saturday, 20 Feb 1915, aged about 80 years (Pen. Ent., 27 Feb 1915). Mrs. Eliza J. Drewer, widow of the late John W. Drewer of Saxis, died at home at Saxis on 20 Feb 1915, aged 72 years, survivors were listed (Acc News, 27 Feb 1915)..² Her body was interred at Drewer Cem, Saxis, Acc Co, VA.⁷

     His Portsmouth, VA, marriage record shows him as a merchant's clerk. The marriage was performed by a Presbytern Minister, Rev. Handy (Portsmouth Marriage, A-940). Cornelius was born circa 1828 at Portsmouth, VA.¹ He was the son of John Griffin Jr. and Margaret 'Peggy' Stone. He was listed as a resident in the census report in 1850 at City of Norfolk, Norfolk Co, VA.¹ He married Virginia A. Foster on 5 June 1856 at Portsmouth, Norfolk Co, VA.^2,3 He was listed as a resident in the census report in 1860 at Jefferson Ward, Portsmouth, Norfolk Co, VA.² Cornelius died before 1889.⁴

     She died of chronic dyspepsia at the age of 54 years, 7 months, and 14 days. She was listed as a widow (Portsmouth Death Register). Virginia was born on 26 February 1835 at Portsmouth, Norfolk Co, VA.¹ She was the daughter of Anthony M. Foster and Maria J. Minter. She was listed as a resident in the census report in 1850 at Portsmouth, Norfolk Co, VA.² She married Cornelius L. Griffin on 5 June 1856 at Portsmouth, Norfolk Co, VA.^3,4 She was listed as a resident in the census report in 1860 at Jefferson Ward, Portsmouth, Norfolk Co, VA.³ Virginia died on 9 October 1889 at Portsmouth, Norfolk Co, VA, at age 54.¹

     William Dolphus Marshall was also known as Willie Marshall. The 1900 Census shows Willie Marshall was born Feb 1894 and the 1910 and 1920 Census both show 1895. Mr. William D. Marshall, a resident of Saxis, died on 21 Apr 1954, aged 59 years (b.c. 1895). He was the son of David M(?). Marshall, born at Saxis and a member of the Saxis Methodist Church. Survivors were listed (Pen. Ent., 22 Apr 1954). His common name was Willie. William was born in February 1894 at Saxis, Acc Co, VA.¹ He was the son of David O. Marshall and Laura Martin. He was listed as a resident in the census report in 1900 at Saxis, Acc Co, VA.¹ He was listed as a resident in the census report in 1910 at Saxis, Acc Co, VA.² He married Clara F. Trader on 5 July 1914 at MD-VA Line, Wor Co, MD.³ William was living on 21 July 1917 at Saxis, Acc Co, VA, (Army Registration).⁴ William died on 21 April 1954 at age 60.⁵

     Mae was born in January 1897 at Saxis, Acc Co, VA.¹ She was the daughter of David O. Marshall and Laura Martin. She was listed as a resident in the census report in 1900 at Saxis, Acc Co, VA.¹ She was listed as a resident in the census report in 1910 at Saxis, Acc Co, VA.² She married Severn Crockett circa 1914.³ Her body was interred at Ellis Cem, Saxis, Acc Co, VA.⁴

     Mr. Robert Marshall died at home at Saxis on 10 Nov 1963, aged 64 years. He was born and reared at Saxis, the son of the late Daniel(?) and Laura Martin Marshall. Burial was at Downing's Cemetery. Survivors were listed (Pen. Ent., 14 Nov 1963). Contrary to this obituary, his father was David, not Daniel Marshall. According to the 1900 census, Robert Marshall was born Jan 1899. However, his tombstone at Downing's Cemetery shows 1898. Robert was born in 1898 at Saxis, Acc Co, VA.² He was the son of David O. Marshall and Laura Martin. He was listed as a resident in the census report in 1900 at Saxis, Acc Co, VA.³ He was listed as a resident in the census report in 1910 at Saxis, Acc Co, VA.¹ He married Beulah B. Smith on 4 April 1920 at MD-VA Line, Wor Co, MD.⁴ Robert was living in 1940 at Saxis, Acc Co, VA.⁵ Robert died on 10 November 1963 at Saxis, Acc Co, VA.⁶ His body was interred at Downing's Cem, Oak Hall, Acc Co, VA.²

     Mr. Orris Marshall of Saxis married Cleora Brittingham, daughter of Mr. & Mrs. Lewis Brittingham of Cedar Hill, MD, on 1 Jan 1938 (Pen. Ent., 7 Jan 1938). Orrie was born in 1902 at Saxis, Acc Co, VA.² He was the son of David O. Marshall and Laura Martin. He was listed as a resident in the census report in 1910 at Saxis, Acc Co, VA.¹ He married Delma Estella Read on 13 September 1920 at MD-VA Line, Wor Co, MD.³ Orrie was living on 16 January 1942 at Saxis, Acc Co, VA, (Selective Service).⁴ Orrie died in 1977.² His body was interred at Ellis Cem, Saxis, Acc Co, VA.²

     John was born circa 1774 at Messongo, Acc Co, VA.² He was the son of Parker Miles (I) and Tabitha (-----). John appears on the list of tithables at Accomack Co, VA, for on 30 November 1790. On 30 Nov 1790, a John Miles was exempted from taxation during pleaservice (Acc Orders, 1790-1793, p. 56). Could this have been the same John Miles who was born circa 1780? What was pleaservice?. John was named in his father's will on 26 May 1796 at Accomack Co, VA. He was shown as a son John Miles in the will of Parker Miles. John and his brother George were named Extrs..¹ John was listed as a head of household in the census of in 1800 at Accomack Parish, Acc Co, VA. He was shown as John Miles, Mesungo, a head of household, age 16-26. Listed with him were 2 males, age 0-10, 1 male, age 10-16, 1 male, age 16-26; 1 female, age 16-26 and 1 female, age 26-45. Being age 16-26 wou