Roper Families in Kentucky

 

L. David Roper
roperld@vt.edu
 (www.roperld.com)
6 March, 2002

 

The First Two Centuries of Ropers in Kentucky (1700-1899)

 

Pulaski County Research Book II, p. 22: Following is a list of Revolutionary Soldiers who settled in Somerset area and whose descendants are, in many instances, residents in the city or county in the twentieth century. ... David Roper

 

Early KY Settlers, p. 207: Minute Book No. 1, Jefferson Co., 6 Apr 1784-7 Dec 1785: Roper & Co. vs Nelson, Reu. Case, Spl. Bail. Imp.

 

The Kentucky Gazette, 1787-1800: Genealogical and Historical Abstracts", Compiled by Karen Mauer GREEN (Baltimore: Gateway Press, Inc., 1983) No ROPER, RAPER or ROSSER mentions.

Woodford Co KY Wills and Estates 1789 to 1815, compiled by Charles M. FRANKLIN (Indianapolis, IN: Heritage House, 1985), contains NO ROPER MENTIONS.
Woodford Co KY Wills and Estates 1789 to 1815", compiled by Charles M. FRANKLIN (Indianapolis, IN: Heritage House, 1985) NO ROPER, RAPER, ROSSER or other variant mentions.

The 1795 Census of Kentucky" (Miami Beach, FL: T.L.C. Genealogy, 1991), a compilation from Tax Lists, includes several records possibly of interest: RAPIER, James R’d (Nelson Co.); RAPIER, Richard James (Nelson Co.); RASHER, Daniel (Fayette Co.); RAZERS(?), William (Clark Co.); RAZOR, John (Mercer Co.); ROGER(?), John (?) (Scott Co.); ROPER, Stephen (Bourbon Co.); ROSSER, Richard (Fayette Co.); ROZER(?), Stephen (Scott Co.)

Woodford Co KY Will Book B, 1796-1805 (Miami Beach, FL: T.L.C. Genealogy, 2001) NO ROPER, RAPER, ROSSER or similar variant mentions within this book of Will Abstracts for Woodford County, Kentucky.

KY Pioneers and Court Records by H. K. McAdams:
Lincoln Co. marriages: Asa McKenzie m Janet Roper 31 Jan 1799 p.116
p. 223: Old graveyard on
Main St., Cynthiana, KY: #86 Wm. Roper

 

1981 letter from Mrs. Barbara Pelcher, 7102 Newbury, San Bernardino, CA 92404 to Mrs. Lavonnie G. Brimhall: Jincy Geneil Roper, d/o David and Mary Roper married my ancestor, Asa McKenzie 1799 Lincoln Co.,KY (later called Pulaski Co.). John Roper m Sally McKenzie 1823 (Asa McKenzie surety) in Pulaski Co., KY. Asa McKenzie, s/o Asa and Jincy (Roper) McKenzie, was in AL for a short time; my grandfather, Roland McKenzie, was born there 1829,but they showed in the Hardeman Co., TN 1830 census. Nearby was Green Roper. In 1840 they both in AR.

 

Pulaski Co. Ky, Court Orders 1809-1866 Film #804646, V.2, 1804-1815: Nov Court 1805 P.129, #839: On the motion of Thomas Reid Eighty acres on the waters of Flat Lick Creek Beginning on two Elms corner of Thomas Richardson Survey thence with a conditional line of George Sanders N78E30 poles to two poplars thence N52.5E till it Strikes David Ropers line N72E till it Strikes flat lick creek thence up the creek till it Strikes a large white oak in a conditional line between Harris and Sanders thence with said line S38W76 Poles to a white oak thence N75W60 poles to a red oak thence to the beginning which is ordered to be certified.

 

1800 US census of KY: David Roper Pulaski Co. 29 Jul 1800
George Roper Warren Co. Jan 1800;  Stephen Roper Bourbon Co.

 

The Weisiger Family, p.10: Daniel Weisiger, son of Daniel Weisiger, Jr. and Mary Bell, is said to have been born 18 May 1763,.. He was apparently libing in Chesterfield Co., VA as late as 1784 when his father died. Some time after this he emigrated to Kentucky. For ashort time he was in business in Lexington, KY, where he is said to have met his wife. She was Lucy Price, daughter of Samuel Price and Elizabeth Richardson. They were married 15 May 1791 in Fayette Co., KY. The couple moved to Frankfort, and lived at the corner of Wapping and Washington Streets. Daniel is referred to as one of the founders of Frankfort in Mrs. Trabue's book...Daniel is said to have gained his title of Captain in the Northwest Expedition against the Indians in the late 1780's...Family tradition states that his son Joseph was the first white male child born in Frankfort...His home at Main and Anne Streets was later opened as a hotel, long known as the Weisiger House. Lafayette stayed there on his visit in 1824, and a ball was given in his honor...Among the members of the first legislature of Kentucky in 1792-3 was Daniel Weisiger...In 1807 he was President of the Frankfort Bank...he lost most of his money acting as security for friends...death...on 2 Feb 1829....Lucy later moved to Texas where she died...Daniel and Lucy had: Dr. Joseph Weisiger, Daniel Weisiger, Samuel Price Weisiger, Anna W. Weisiger, Lucy Price Weisiger, b 17 Mar 1803 d 3 Jun 1838 m William Roper, but had no living descendants, Elizabeth Richardson Weisiger, Emmaline Weisiger, Mary Bell Weisiger, Isabella Price Weisiger, and William Weisiger.

 

History of Woodford Co (KY): p.238: Richard Bastin and Joseph Roper were early arrivals in Woodford Co., both listed in the US census of 1810, the former having a farm and one slave, and his family consisting of 5 members. The latter owned a farm and two slaves and his family consisted of 7 members. Richard Bastin was born in VA in 1781, married in Woodford Co. in 1804 Polly Roper, b VA Apr 1784. She was a d/o Joseph Roper, who was a VAian by birth. The children of Richard Bastin & Polly Roper were b Woodford Co.. He died 1816, and a few years later his wife and her four small children in company with her brother, Jesse Mimms Roper and his family, migrated to Howard Co., MO, where very many of our pioneer citizens or their children located. The land upon which they settled in that state is still in possession of descendants, the homestead being the property of Henry C. Thorpe, a grandson of Richard Bastin. Many of the Buford (Bastin?) descendants are in that county and state also. I am informed that the Bastin descendants have always been a very industrious, and a very religious class. The children of Richard Bastin & Polly Roper are: Henrietta, b 12 Oct 1806 d Apr 1889 in Howard Co., MO m Aug 1823 Jackson Thorpe b Jul 1799. He is a son of Thomas Thorpe who is a son of the Rev. Wat Thorpe & Eleanor Jackson of Madison Co. KY; John Vardin Bastin, b Mar 1808 d Dec 1851 m Ann Peary; Jesse Roper Bastin b May 1810 m Harriet McAdams, and Mary Ann Bastin b Sep 1812 d May 1901 m Dec 1839 James Cash.
*The above notes were sent to me by Mrs. Paul A. Klayder.

 

1810 US census of KY: 0-10,11-16,17-24,25-44,45-up  page
Cumberland Co.: David Roper3 0 0 1 0  1 1 0 1 1      180a line 61
Jassamine
Co.: Jesse Roper                            56  line 34
               William Roper                          56  line 33
Pulaski Co.:   David Roper 0 0 1 2 1  0 1 1 0 1  2   141
               David Roper 0 0 2 0 1  0 1 1 1 0  2   141
              Thomas Roper 3 0 0 1 0  1 0 0 1 0  0   144
Woodford Co.
              Joseph Roper                           395  line 37

 

KY Marriages: Logan Co.:
Catherine Roper m John R. Turner 20 Jan 1858 Book 3 p.1
Mary Jane Roper m Robert Mays 15 Jun 1812
Pulaski Co.:
Anna Roper m Hiram Surber
20 Apr 1827 Christley Yander
Polly Roper m George Gastineau 1811 Bayle Williams Book 1 P.4?
Rachel Roper m Henry James
9 Aug 183? surety David Roper

 

KY in the War of 1812: p.26: Meanwhile, Gen. Winchester was advancing slowly; and on Sep 30 he reached Fort Defiance. The new troops then coming into the field had assembled at St. Mary's, and among them were three regiments of Kentuckians commanded respectively by Cols. Joshua Barbee, Robert Poague, and William Jennings (the latter regiment being riflemen), and three companies of riflemen from the same state under Capts. Roper, Baker and Clark. ...
p.27: On Oct 1 there were nearly three thousand troops at St. Mary's The mounted men under Maj. Richard M. Johnson and Capts. Roper, Clark and Bacon, were formed into a regiment, of which Johnson was made the Colonel. ...

 

KY Soldiers of the War of 1812: p.122: Roll of Capt. Mason Singleton's Co., KY Mounted Volunteer Militia-Comm. by Col. George Trotter: ...Jesse Roper, Pvt., Newport, 30 Aug 1813=muster
p.229: Roll of Capt. Samuel R. Combs'
Co., Ky Mounted Infantry: ...
James Roper, Pvt.,
20 May 1813 enlisted, 5 Oct 1813 engaged.
p.327: Roll of Discharged Men, 7th Reg., US Infantry:  ...
William Roper, Pvt. 23 Nov 1813 discharged
p.338: Roll of Capt. Carey Nicholas'
Co., 7th Reg., US Infantry: ...
John Ropers, Pvt. 1 Jan 1814 enlisted,
30 Jun 1814 engaged, deserted 26 Jan 1814

 

Kentucky Land Grants by W. R. Wilson, p.794: acres,book,page
David Roper 50 B 213
8 Jun 1816 Cumberland Co., Cumberland River
John C. Roper 50 K 446
9 Aug 1821 Monroe Co., S. Fork Cumberland R.
John C. Roper 50 K 447
9 Aug 1821 Monroe Co., S. Side Cumberland R.
Joel Roper 100 K 280 21 May 1822 Simpson Co., Fork Drakes Creek
John D. Roper 50 M 300
14 Aug 1822 Pulaski Co., Buck Creek
Jesse Roper 50 A2 475
3 Feb 1829 Whitley Co., Browns Creek
Jesse Roper 50 A2 476
3 Feb 1829 Whitley Co., Browns Creek          John Roper 100 E2 351 20 Dec 1833 Cumberland Co., Kettle Creek

 

Pulaski Co. Deed Book, #3, p.231:
June Term 1817. Agreeable to an Order of the County Court for the County aforesaid This Indenture is made between William Fox, as Clerk of the said Court, on behalf of Callaway Roper, orphan of Roper Deceased, of the One part, and Marvil Nash of the other par, Witnesseth that the said Callaway Roper, is honestly and industrously to serve and Obey the said Marvil Nash in all lawful Commands until he shall be twenty one years old, and he the said Marvil Nash, doth Covenant and agree to find the said Callaway Roper a sufficiency of good Clothes as also a sufficiency of Good holsome diet and all other Necessaries, so long as he shall serve him, and to learn him the said Callaway Roper, all the Common arts and misteries of the farmers trade or business, and to have him taught to read, write and Common Arithmatic, Including the Rule of Three, and to treat him in a humane and tender manner in all things and at the Expiration of the said Callaway Roper's service, who is about nine years old, the said Marvil Nash, is to give him three pounds ten shillings and a Decent New suit of Clothes. In Witness whereof the said Marvil Nash, and the said William Fox, as Clerk of the said Court, hath herein to set his hand and affixed his seal this 23rd day of June 1817.

 

Pulaski Co. Deed Book, #3, p. 366:
This Indenture made between Wm. Fox as  Clerk of Co. Court on behalf of Calloway Roper orphan of Caty Roper of one part and David Fizer other part - to serve David Fizer until age of 21 - to teach him the arts of winsor Chair Making - Calloway is about 10 yr. old.
24 Aug 1818.

 

Pulaski Co. Deed Book, #4:                                      page 1819 David & Mary Roper to Baylis Williams, 121.5 acres for $400  86

This Indenture made & entered into this 28th day of June in the year of our Lord 1819 between David Roper & Mary Roper of the one part & Baylis Williams of the other, all of Pulaski Co. & State of KY Witnesseth that for & in consideration of the sum of $400 to said Roper in paid the reciept whereof is hereby acknowledge the said David Roper hath this day bargained & sold, & doth by these presents bargain sell & convey to the said Baylis Williams ?and tract or parcel of land lying & being in the County aforesaid, Containing 121 & 1/2 acres be the same bounded more or less on the waters of Buck Creek, as bounded as followeth to wit: Beginning at James Gilmore's south Eastwardly ? a dogwood & two hickories thence S75E 10 poles to to live white oak & buckeye on the side of a small branch, thence with the many mianders of the said branch N20E 9 poles, thence N 15 poles, thence N42?E 12 poles, thence N40W 7 poles thence N4?E 20 poles thence, N35WE 12 poles thence N95? 4 poles thence N40E 6 poles thence N80E 6 poles thence N20E 8 poles thence N25E 20 thence N2E 24 poles thence N10E 22 poles thence N37W 18 poles thence N25W 14 poles thence N43E 8 poles thence N10W 6 poles to two White Oaks on the original line, thence with the original line N75W 10 poles to a White oak one of the original corners thence S15W 58 poles to two   White Oak saplings thence N75W 100 poles to a Black Oak and hickory standing on James Gilmores line thence with said line S7W 144 poles to the Beginning. With all its appertinances. To have & to hold the the said 121 & 1/2 acres of land to the said Baylis Williams & his heirs forever, and the said David Roper & Mary Roper do warrant and defend the said tract or parcel of land from him and his heirs on all other person or persons whatever to the said Baylis Williams and his heirs forever. In witness whereof the said David Roper hath hereunto set his hand & seal this day & year above written. David X Roper  Mary Roper  Henry James  John Jackson  George Deboard

 

1819 David & Mary Roper to Jno. Smith, 78.5 acres for $300        88 This Indenture made & entered into this 28th of June 1819 between David Roper & Mary Roper of the one part & Jno Smith of the other part, all of Pulaski Co. & State of KY. Witnesseth: that for & in consideration of $300 to the said Roper in hiand paid the receipt whereof is hereby acknowledged the said David Roper and Mary Roper hath this day bargained & sold & doth by these presents bargain sell & convey to the said John Smith a Certain tract or parcel of land lying & being in the County aforesd containing 78 & 1/2 acres be the same more or less & on the waters of Buck Creek and bounded as follows to wit: Beginning at an Ellum on the EAst side of a small branch in a line of the orginal Survey thence with the said line S75E 8 poles to a White Oak Samuel Gilmore corner thence N58E 156 poles to a White Oak & Walnut a corner of the orginal Survey thence N7E 88 poles to two White Oaks on the top of a high ridge thence N75W 90 poles to a White Oak & Dogwood on the East side of said small branch thence down the many mianders of said brance binding thence S25W 12 poles thence S25E 31 poles thence S13W 38 poles thence S32W 15 poles, thence S28W 72 poles thence S23W 19 poles to the Beginning. With all its appertenances. To have and to hold the said 78 & 1/2 acres of land to the said John Smith & his heirs forever and the said David Roper & Mary Roper doth warrant & defend the said tract or parcel of land from them & his heirs & all person or persons. Claiming under them but no further, to the said John Smith and his heirs forever. In witness whereof the said David Roper hath hereunto set his hand & seal this day & year above mentioned.
David X Roper  Mary Roper  Henry James  B. Williams  John Jackson

 

p. 282: This Indenture Made this 29 day of July in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and twenty between William Moore and Rebecky More his wife of the County of Pulaski amd state of Ky. Of the one part and David Roper of the County and state aforesaid of the other part Witnesseth that the said William & Rebecky More for and in consideration of six hundred and thirty eight dollars to them in hand paid the receipt thereof we do hereby Acknowledge hath this day bargained and sold and by these presents doth hereby bargain sell and confirm unto the said David Roper his heirs and assigns forever all that tract or parcel of land Containing by survey Eighty acres and ten poles of land situated lying & being in the County of Pulaski and on Flat Lick Creek being part of Nathaniel Welches 1000 acres survey and bounded as follows to wit) beginning on a Cluster of pin oaks, marked DR and running with the original line of Nathaniel Welches 1000 acres survey south twenty one west one hundred and seventy eight poles his corner a double white oak on the bank of Flat Lick Creek thence down said Creek with the marianders there of south thirteen west twelve poles south thirty siz east fourteen poles south seventy east thirty poles north eighteen east eighteen poles north sixty six east thirty two poles south forty east sixteen poles to two white oaks and sycamore on the bank of said creek thence north twenty one east seventy six poles to a hickory thence north twenty four west one hundred and thirty four poles to beginning. All houses, orchards and whatsoever there unto appertaineth for the sole and only use of said David Roper his heirs or assigns forever. And by these presents the said William and Rebecky More doth warrant and defend the said land from them and their heirs and assigns and from all and every persons and from all and every claim on claimants whatsoever where unto the s'd William and Rebecky More hath set their hand & seals this day & date above written in the presents of Henry James , Asa McKinsey, David McKinsey & Lacy McKinsey.  Wm. Moore  Rebecca A Moore Proved 31st July 1820

 

p. 249:
Article of an agreement made and concluded this day of April in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and twenty between David Roper of the County of Pulaski & State of Kentucky of the one part, & Sarah Clark of the County & State aforesaid of the Other part. Witnesseth: whereas the said David Roper is sirgrd? of certain lan or property and tenements to the amount of 285 acres whereon he now lives on part thereof and certain slaves, to wit: Dick, Linany, Sewer & Linny, in fee simple, to him and his heirs forever and whereas a certain marriage is shortly intended to be had and solemnized between the said David Roper & Sarah Clarke and for her marriage portion it is therefore agreed and covenanted in this manner & form to wit: the said David Roper doth agree for himself his heirs Executors or administrators that in Case the said Marriage is solemnized, to hold, nor set up any Claim in law or equity to any part of the Estate of the said Sarah Clark now has, and she is further entitled to make Deeds of gifts and dispose of it in any way she thinks proper, and the said Sarah Clark doth agree for herself her heirs Executorsor administrators that is case the said Marriage is solemnized to release and give up all severy? Part of her dowrey to all lands and tenements slaves and personal Estate Whatsoever for the sole and only use of the sd heirs of the sd David Roper, in case she should be the longer liver, & in case the said Marriage is solemnized and for her portion and dowery, that she would be entitled to in law and equity. She doth agree to have and receive only one third of all the increase of the said Estate of the sd David Roper may have in the said Estate in lands, slaves or personal Estate whatsoever. and in case the said David Roper should be the longer liver he doth further agree in Case the said Marriage is solemnized to have the said increase of said Estate vallied and Euvataried and doth agree for himself, his heirs, Executors or administrators to give at his death or soon after one-third of the said increase to her heirs or (ofrgus - children or orphans) and she the said Sarah Clark whereby fully empowered and to make deeds of of gifts or will to any person or persons whatsoever to receive the srm? at the death of the said Roper or soon after. Given under our hand and seal, date and day above written. David X Roper Sarah X Clark. Wit: Edwin Fitzpatrick, Peter W. Clark. Clk: Will Fox 19 day of Apr 1820

 

Mrs. Yorke Burdine, Rt. 3, Box 213 BC, Somerset, KY 42501 (decd before 1989) states: Sarah Clark was the widow of James Clark who died in Shelby Co. in 1811.

 

1821 David & Sarah Roper to Brink Elliott, Wit: John Fitzpatrick 404

                         50 acres on Serking Creek

p. 406:
Agreement and order of the County Court of Pulaski Co.. This indenture is made between Wm. Fox as Clerk of the Court aforesaid on behalf of Calloway Roper orphan of Caty Roper of the one part and John Metcalfe Jun of other part - wit, that the said Calloway Roper is honestly and industrously to serve and obey the said John Metcalfe in all lawful Commands until he shall be 21 yr. old and he the said John Metcalfe do agree to find Calloway a sufficient of good clothes and good holesome diet all other Neccessities as long as he should serve him and to learn him all the ministries of Carding and spinning business or trade at his factory and have him taught to read, Common Arithmetic and treat him in a human and tender manner - and at the expiration of Calloway Ropers service who is suppose to be 13 years old about the 1st Sept next. John Metcalfe is to give him 3 pounds 10 shillings & a decent new outfit. 28 May 1821
1821 Calloway Roper to John Metcalf, apps 407

 

Pulaski Co. Court Order Book #3:

p. 130: Bount out to Christly Yanders-Betsy Ann Roper orphan of ____ Roper agreeable to an act of General Assembly of KY in such case made and provided for the said Betsy Ann Roper. Supposed to be above 3 years old. Aug term 1817.
p. 406: Williams Owens kept Calloway Roper for term of 6 months - Nov term 1820. Kept him for 37 cents per week.

 

KY Records: V.2, Fleming Co. Deeds: p.127: Wade Mosby-of Powhatan Co., VA to Joseph Goddard of Fleming Co., patented in name of Little Berry Mosby, by Wm. Roper, atty. Aug 1819.

 

1820 US census for KY: <10,11-16,17-18,26-45,>45(M)             page                       <10,11-16,17-26,27-45,46-up (F)
Cumberland Co.:
David Roper      2 3 0 1 0  2 0 0 1 0                             160
John Roper, Sr. 0 0 0 0 1  1 1 0 0 1                          158
John Roper, Jr. 1 1 0 0 0  0 1 0 0 0                            158
Fayette Co.:                                                      James Roper                                                      83
Fleming Co.:
William P. Roper                                                  80
Harrison Co.:
William Roper                                                   218
Logan Co.:
David Roper                                                      35
Pulaski Co.:
David Roper    0 0 0 0 1 1  0 0 1 0 1  1                         194
Shelby Co.:
Thos. Roper                                                    132A
Simpson Co.:
David Roper                                                     16A
James Roper                                                     13A
Woodford Co.:
Joseph Roper                                                   117A

 

Pulaski Co. Marriage Book, #1:
David Roper & Sarah Clark 
19 Apr 1820  John Fitzpatrick
John Roper & Sally McKinsey 
10 Dec 1823  Asa McKinsey

 

VA Revolutionary Pension Applications: p.13: Abraham Crabtree. R2418 .12 Sep 1825 Cumberland Co., KY Abraham Crabtree declares in Aug1819 he sold one cow and calf for $12 to Henry Rutledge, in Jun 1819 one pair of chains for 17 barrels of corn to Joseph Speers, in Oct 1820 one small bull to John Roper for 150 pounds of port, ...

 

Letter to compiler from Ruth A. McKeon, Box 110, Gunloch, UT 84733 in 1990: My g-g-grandmother married a John Roper on 10 Dec 1823 in Somerset, KY. She was the widow of my g-g-grandfather. They had 2 sons (possibly a third-James). The two sons: John & William Hardesty Megenity. After my g-g-grandmother Sarah (Sally) married John Roper she had a daughter Mary Jane Roper. She is mentioned in the will of her half brother John and also her father's will dated 11 Dec 1860. Film #84643 p.540 Book 5.

 

KY Marriages 1797-1865 by G. G. Clift:
p. 36: Hon. W. P. Roper of Flemingsburgh to Miss Lucy Price Weisiger, m
Frankfort 2 Jun 1824
p. 63: T. A. McGrath of
Louisville to Mary Ann Roper of Lexington m 7 Jan 1831
p. 107: Dr. William G. Rodes formerly of
Lexington to Mrs. Mary E. Roper of Jackson m 30 Jul 1844 (from Huntsville, AL Advocate)

 

KY Records: V.2: p.176: Fleming Co. marriages:
Amelia Roper & Nathan Barnes 1825

 

Pulaski Co. deed book 37, p.393: This Indenture, made this 27th day of February 1873 between Sarah Roper & Nancy Ellen Roper by John McGinity, Attorney in fact for said Nancy Ellen Roper, of Pulaski Co., KY of the first part, andenry Farmer of P.C., KY of the second part, Witnesseth: that the parties of the first part, in consider- ation of the sum of One Hundred Dollars, paid and secured, to be paid as follows, to wit: Fifty Dollars in hand paid, and a note of even date hereof executed for Fifty Dollars, payable twelve months after date, for the payment of which a lien is retained on the land herein conveyed, the receipt whereof is hereby acknowledged, hath bargained and sold, and by these presents do convey and part, his heirs and assigns forever, a certain tract or parcel of land, lying in the County of Pulaski and State of KY and bounded as follows, viz: Beginning on two white oaks and chestnut oak standing on a remarkable clift a few poles below a salt peter cave where a branch falls over the clift, thence running S70W48 poles to there dogwoods, thence S88E40 poles to a gum and dogwood thence N73E92 poles to two chestnut oaks and poplar, N10W80 poles to two white oaks, S75W86 poles to a white oak and gum, thence S51W30 poles to the beginning, containing Sixty three acres, and patented in the name of John D. Roper, bearing date 12th day of July 1827. To have and to hold the said boundary or parcel of land, with all the appurtenances, unto Henry Farmer, the party of the second part, his  heirs and assigns forever, with covenant of General Warranty.
And the said parties of the first part doth further convenant with the said party of the second part, that they will warrant and forever defend the title to the foregoing described land and premises from the claim of themselves and all other persons whatever In Testimony Whereof the said parties of the first part hath hereunto subscribed their names the day and year first herein written. Sarah X Roper, Nancy Ellen Roper, by John McGinity Attorney in fact.  I Henry Farmer, for value received hereby transfer the land named in the within deed to John McGinity as agent for Sarah Roper & Nancy Roper, and surrender all claim on said land to him.
Given under my hand this 11th day of March 1879. Henry Farmer
Witness: C. B. Porch  1879 March 11th acknowledged before me by Henry Farmer to be his act and deed. Att:
C. B. Porch Clerk P. Co. Court

 

Pulaski Co. Will Book, #3, p. 420: David Roper  1829
p. 421 I&A: David Roper  1829

 

1830 US census for KY:                                          page
Cumberland Co.
John A. Roper    1M20-30,3F<5,1F5-10,1F20-30                     128
Fleming
Co.
W. P. Roper                                             Eastern   37
Hickman Co.
Joseph Roper                                                       4
Monroe Co.
J. C. Roper                                        Tompkinsville 398 Pulaski Co.
David Roper                                                       47
Simpson Co.
James Roper    309
Joel Roper 288
Trigg Co.
Henry C. Roper   6

 

Early KY Settlers, p. 338: Calendar of early Jefferson Co. wills, Will Book 2 Jun 1813-Dec 1833: Will for Mary Withers 24 May 1831- 5 Sep 1831 Witnesses: Thomas Brown, Sarah S. Roper (Book 2, p. 451)

 

Woodford Co., Kentucky, Wills and Estates, Vol. II, 1815-1826 " Compiled and Abstracted by Charles M. FRANKLIN (Indianapolis, IN: Heritage Books, 1985) showing two ROPER mentions on page 28.  Each mention reflects a mention of a ROPER – Malinda Shouse ROPER and Joseph ROPER – within SHOUSE Wills in Woodford County, KY.Malinda is mentioned in her father’s Will: Henry SHOUSE (dated 31 Aug 1825, Recorded Nov 1825.  Joseph is named executor within his brother-in-law’s Will: Thomas SHOUSE (dated 14 Feb 1820, recorded Apr 1820).
Additional members of Malinda SHOUSE’s family are readily identifiable within these Wills. These were the ONLY ROPER mentions within the cited book.

Edgewood by James W. Powell: In 1822 General David Thomson received the following letter and questionaire. 22 March 1822 Sir: You are already apprised of the proceedings of our legislature at their last session on the subject of education. We were appointed commissioners to collect information and...W.P. Roper

 

Revolutionary Soldiers in KY: Roll of Pensioners: p.144:
David Roper,
Pvt. VA line, 31 Oct 1822 $40 age 78 (b c1755)
p.156: James Roper,
Pvt. NC line, 29 May 1833 $66.66 age 89 (b c1744

 

KY Obituaries 1787-1854, p. 88:
Hon. William P. Roper of Flemingsburg d 18 Aug 1833 OR 8/21
Mrs. Lucy Roper relict of the late Judge Roper of
Frankfort d    4 Jun 1838 KG 6/7

 

Pulaski Co. Deed Book, #8:                                      page 1836 John D. Roper to John Whitaker et al deed
p. 370:
This indenture made
9 March 1836 between James Woodall and Sally his wife of Co. of Pulaski, who is assinged of Charles Burden assigned of George Pitman, who is assigned of John D. Roper of one part and John Whitaker and Dicy his wife of the other part of the Co. aforesaid sum of $50.00 land in Co. of Pulaski on water of Sinking Valley of Buck Creek containing 50 acres.

 

Pulaski Co. Deed Book, #9, p. 184:
This Indenture of Bargain and
Sale made and entred into this 10th day of May 1837 between David Roper of the Co. of Pulaski and State of Ky. of the one part and John D. Roper of the County and State aforsaid of the other part Witnesseth that the Said David Roper for and in consideration of the Love and affection he entertains toward his Son John D. Roper and also for and In consideration of the Sum of four hundred Dollars to him paid in hand by the Said John D. Roper the Receipt whereof I do acknowledged have this day Granted bargained and Sold and so by these presents grant Bargain Sell enloof convey and confirm unto the said John Roper one Certain Tract or parcel of Land Lying and being in Pulaski Co. and State aforesaid on Flatlick Creek Containing by Survey two hundred & Eighty five acres & ten poles be the Same more or less and bounded as follows Court Beginning at a Black oak the North East Corner of my original Survey of two hundred Acres thence North 72 west 177 poles to s Small white oak thence South ....

 

Pulaski Co. Deed Book, #9, p. 212:
This indenture of sale made into this day
24 June 1837 between John D. Roper & David Roper of County of Pulaski and state of Ky. of one part and Daniel F. James of same Co. of other part for sum of $1200 to them paid by the said James. The said John D. and David Roper has sold a certain tract of land being in Pulaski Co. on Flatlick Creek containing 285 acres and 10 poles beg at black oak the NE Corner of original survey of 200 acres N 72 deg. W 177 p to a small white oak, S18W 120p to two hickories S20E 70p to two hickories on the bank of Flat Lick Creek then down Creek with meanders 80p to a white oak in South side of said Creek, N67E to two white oaks & a gum the upper Corner of Nathaneil Welches 1000 acre survey, down s'd Creek with meanders south 13W 12p S36E 14p S70E 30p N18E 18p N66E 32p S40E 16p to two white oaks & sycamore on bank of s'd Creek, N21E 76p to a Hickory, N24W 134p to a cluster of pine oaks on original line of the 200 acre survey, N18E to Beg.
p. 254:
Hector about 29, black, has straight hair 5.6"; Lucy, mulatto, very bright, 27; Greene, black, 10;
Niagara, mulatto, 8; Violet, dark mulatto, 6; Margaret, dark mulatto, 4; Polly Ann, mulatto, 4 mo. are given bond of freedom for taking care of David Roper until he died.
p. 256:
Know all men that we David Roper and Daniel F. James and Charles Jasper his scts. are held firmly bound to the Justice of County Court of Pulaski Co. in the sum of $1000, the payment of which will and truly to be made to said justice this 21 day of Aug. 1837. This obligation is such that whereas the said David Roper has Emancipated and set free his negro slaves to wit: Hector, Lucy, Green, Niagra, Violet, Margaret and Polly Ann.

 

Pulaski Co. Will Book 3, p.420: At a County Court held for Pulaski County, at the Courthouse thereof in the Town of Somerset on Monday the 16the day of September 1839. This writing was produce to the Court, as the last will and Testament of David Roper Decd. And proven by the Oaths of Noah Lee, Peter Remark? and Rebecca H. Moore. To be the act and deed of the said David Roper Decd. Ordered to be Recorded and the Same is done accordingly. Att: Will Fox Clk (A long list of the inventory of goods) This inventory of the Estate of David Roper deceased was Exhibited to the Court which being exhamined & Also proved of by the Court, was Ordered to be Recorded and the same is done accordingly. Att: Will Fox Clk

 

Index to KY Wills to 1851, The Testators:
David Roper, Pulaski Co., KY 420 Book 3 1839
Joseph Roper, Hickman Co., KY 388 Book 4 1836
Joseph Roper, Fulton Co., KY 019 Book 1 1849
Samuel Roper, Livingston Co., KY 119 Book 8 1849

 

1840 US census of KY:                                           page Hardin Co.
James Roper                                                       89
Hickman
Co.
A. J. Roper                                                      313
Dolery Roper                                                     310
Ellen Roper                                                      312
Joseph Roper                                                     313
Mildred Roper                                                    316
S. H. Roper                                                      316
Pulaski Co.
Hecter E. Roper black     333
John Roper 302
Simpson Co.
Mary Roper 181
Trigg Co.
Henry Roper    285

 

Pulaski Co. Deed Book 16, p.150: This Deed made and entered unto this 22d day of December 1853 between Thomas Surber Sheriff of Pulaski County of the first part, and David Roper of the county of Pulaski and State of Kentucky of the Second part, Witnesseth, that for and in consideration of the matters and things herein Set forth (Court) On the 10th day of August 1840 an Execution issued of that date from the Pulaski Circuit Court Clerks Office, in favor of William Gill and against the estate of George Humphreys Senr. For the sum of Seventeen dollars & fifty cents principal and six dollars and fifteen cents costs, returnable to the third Monday in September thereafter; Also one other Execution which issued from the same office aforesaid, on the 10th day of August 1840 in favor of John Hunt ass? of William Gill, and against the estate of the Said George Humphreys returnable to the 3d Monday in September thereafter for the sum of twenty five dollars principal and $7.77 cents costs; and while the Said Executions were in full force and unsatisfied (to wit, on the 15th day of August 1840, was placed in the hands of Wm. Beaty, a deputy Sheriff for Pulaski County, to buy make and execute, and while in his hands for said purpose, and while in full force as afsd. was levied on the Land hereinafter described and the Sale being advertised according to law, and the Land valued, Said Land was sold at public auction at the Court house Door in Somerset, on the 21st day of September 1840, (being County Court day), and, John Roper being the highest bidder became the purchaser, at the price of $14.12.5 cents, which Satisfied Said Executors in part, and the Same Stands So returned, by the said Em Beaty deputy Shlf as aforesaid; and afterwards exectued in order directing the conveyance of said Land (Speaking of it as 75 acres) to be made to David Roper, which order is on file in the Execution aforesaid. The said party of the first part doth therefor, now alien and confirm to the said David Roper, all the right title interest and claim of the said Defendant in the Executions aforesaid, which was at the time said Execution came to the hands of Wm Beaty deputy Sheriff as aforesaid subject to levy and Sale, under the Same in and to all that tract or parcel of Land Situate lying and being in Pulaski County on the water of Buck creek, the Same deeded to said Humphreys by Charles Jasper by Deed bearing date 14th day of Dec. 1839 and recorded in Cleaks office of Pulaski County Court in Deed book No. 10 page 432 and bounded as follows (To Wit) Begining on a Poplar and running thence S14W60 poles to a maple & Beech, thence S1.5E160 poles to a maple & white oak, near a marshy branch, in a place called the Maple Swamp, thence due West 74 poles to a Stake, thence N2East 260 poles to a Stake, thence S59East 82 poles to the Begining. To Have and To Hold to the Said David Roper, his heirs or assigns forever with its appurtenances and improvements. And the Said party of the first part for himdelf as an officer in his official capacity doth warrant and defend to the said David Roper his heirs and assigns the title to the above described Land and premises, so far as by the law he could Sell & convey the Same by virtue of said Execution. In Witness whereof he doth hereto set his hand and Seal, the day month & year first above written. T. Surber S Commonwealth of Kentucky Pulaski County (Sat) I James D. Moran Clerk of the county court, for the county aforesaid, do certify that the foregoing Deed of conveyance from Thomas Surber Sheriff of Pulaski County to David Roper was on the 22d day of December, AD1853 produced to me in my office and acknowledged by the Said Thomas Surber as Sheriff aforesaid, in his official capacity to be his act and deed. Whereupon said Deed of conveyance together with this certificate hath been only admitted to record in my office. Given under my hand this 23d day of December AD1853. Att J.D. Allcorn Clk

 

Pulaski Co., KY Deed Book #16, p.150: This Deed made and entered into the 22d day of December 1853 between Thomas Surber Sheriff of Pulaski County of the first part, and David Roper of the County of Pulaski and State of Kentucky of the Second part, Witnesseth, that for and in consideration of the matters and things herein Set forth, towit, On the 10th day of August 1840 an Execution issued of that date from the Pulaski Circuit Court Clerks Office, in favor of William Gill and against the estate of George Humphrey Sen. for the sum of Seventeen dollars fifty cents principal, and Six dollars and fifteen cents costs, returnable to the third Monday in September thereafter. Also one other Execution which issued from the same office aforesaid, on the 10th day of August 1840 in favor of John Hunt also of Wm. Gill, and against the estate of George Humphrey's returnable to the 3d Monday in September thereafter, for the sum of twenty five dollars principal and $7.77 cents costs; and while the said Executions were in full force and unsatisfied, to wit, on the 15th day of August 1840, was placed in the hands of Wm. Beaty, a deputy Sheriff for Pulaski County, to levy make and execute, and while in said hands for said purpose, and while in full force as afsd was levied on the land hereinafter described and the Sale being advertized according to law, and the Land valued, Said Land was sold at public auction at the Courthouse door in Somerset, on the 21st day of September 1840 (being County Court day), and John Roper being the highest bidder became the purchaser, at the price of $14.12.5 cents, which Satisfied Said Executors in part and the Same Stands so returned, by the said Wm. Beaty deputy Sheriff as aforesaid; and afterwards executed an order directing the conveyance of Said Land (Speaking of it as 75 acres) to be made to David Roper, which order is on file in the Execution aforesaid. The said party of the first part, doth therefore, now alien and confirm to the said David Roper, all the right title interest and claim of the Said Defendant in theExecutions aforesaid, which was at the time said Execution came to the hands of Wm. Beaty deputy Sheriff as aforesaid subject to levy and Sale under the same in and to all the tract or parcel of Land Situate lying and being in Pulaski County on the water of Buck creek, the same deeded to said Humphrey's by Charles Jasper by Deed bearing date 14th day of Dec. 1839 and recorded in the Clerks office of Pulaski County Court in Deed Book No. 10 page 432 and bounded as follows, To Wit, Beginning on a Poplar and running thence S14West 60 poles to a Maple and Beech thence S1.5E 160 poles to a Maple & White Oak, near a marshy branch in a place called Maple Swamp, thence due West 74 poles to a Stake, thence N2East 260 poles to a Stake, thence S59East 82 poles to the Begining.  To Have and to Hold to the said David Roper, his heirs or assigns forever and its appurtenances and improvements. And the said party of the first part for himself as an officer in his Official Capacity doth warrant and defend to the said David Roper his heirs and assigns the title to the above described Land and premises, so far as by law he could Sell & convey the Same, by virtue of Said Execution. In witness whereof he doth hereto set his hand and Seal, the day monty & year first above written.  T. Surber Sh.

 

Pulaski Co. Marriage Book, #1:
David Roper & Sarah Mills 
26 Sep 1845  Bosen Mills

 

Kentucky Land Grants by W. R. Wilson, p.794: acres,book,page
David Roper 200 26 438
8 Aug 1848 Pulaski Co., Buck Creek
George W. Roper 10 83 110
30 Aug 1871 Todd Co., Whippoorwill

 

1850 US census for KY:                                          Page
Butler Co.
Benjamin Roper 235
Fulton Co.
Andrew J. Roper                                          Hickman 131
John Roper                                               Hickman 120
Lewis Roper                                              Hickman 137
Lewis Roper                                              Hickman 138
Samuel H. Roper                                          Hickman 138
William H. Roper                                         Hickman 114
Zulima Roper                                             Hickman 137
Hardin Co.
James Roper                                             Northern 317
Harrison Co.
Elizabeth Roper 65
Hickman Co.
Elam Roper 11 Harriet Roper    33
J. E. Roper 32 F                                                 161
Jefferson Co.
Mary A. Roper                                        
Louisville 380
Mason Co.
Robert Roper   100
Mercer Co.
Joseph Roper                                              Harrod 367
Pulaski Co.
Roper, David 25 farmer $500 KY; Sarah 27 KY; Lucy I. 4 KY;       241
       Martha 1 KY; Mills, John 72 NC                    Somerset
Roper, John 61 farmer $200 NC; Sarah 60 VA; Martha 15 KY;        439
      
Nancy 12 KY; Sally 10 KY                            Sumner
Roper, Lucy 47 KY; Margaret 15 KY; Polly 13 KY; Sarah 11 KY;     932
       Hector 7 KY; David 5 KY; Helen 3 KY; James 1 KY (black)
                                                         Division
Whitley Co.
John Roper 402

 

Pulaski Co. Deed Book, #16:                                     page 1853 to David Roper from Thomas  Susher (sheriff)                150

 

Pulaski Co. births:
6 Nov 1856 not named d. F David Roper  Sarah Mills
16 Apr 1858  Mary C. Roper  David Roper  Sarah Mills
16 Apr 1858  Nancy E. Roper David Roper  Sarah Mills

 

Pulaski Co. deaths:
16 Apr 1858 Mary C. Roper 5 mo. F David & Sarah Roper unknown cause
16 Apr 1858 Nancy E. Roper 5 mo. F David & Sarah Roper unknown cause

 

Pulaski Co. Deed Book, #18:                                     page 1859 David Roper to Samuel Smotherman deed                       578

 

 

US Census for Pulaski Co. in 1860:                               No.
Roper, David 40 boat builder $125 KY; Sarah 45 KY; Lucy 14 KY    224
       Martha 13 KY; Sarah 6 KY
Roper, John D. 73 farmer $350 NC; Sarah 63 NC; Mary 25 KY;       154
       Nancy E. 21 KY; Amanda 1 KY

 

Pulaski Co. Will Book, p. 540: December the 11th 1860. The last and Will and Testament of John D. Roper. I will to my daughter Mary Jain a Tract of land Containing fifty acres by Survey Joining the home Tract. And I will to my wife and my daughter Nancy Elin; I will to them my home Tract containing Sixty Acres by Survey, lying in Pulaski Co. On the waters of Mud Lick a branch of Buck Creek. I will to my son David My Rifle Gun.    John D. Roper  Attest  George Carter, William X Vauhock, Elender X Vauhock State of Ky., Pulaski Co., at a County Court held for the County afs at the Courthouse in the Town of Somerset on the 11th day of Jany 1861 the foregoing will of John D. Roper was produced & proven by by the Oath of the subscribing Witnesses ????

 

Pulaski Co. Will Book, #5, p. 540: John Roper  1861

 

A History of Christian Co. KY by C. M. Meacham 1950 F457 C55 M47: p.608: Ellis Roper, chief of police 1861

 

Pulaski Co. Marriage Book, #3:
Calvin Walters (23 1st. b. Campbell Co., TN; F.b.VA; M.b.VA) to Lucy Jane Roper (19 1st. b. Pul.
Co.; F.b.PC; M.b.PC)on 27 Dec 1864. AHO Everett Galstons. Bm: David Roper
James G. Nunn (41 3rd. b. Highland Co., OH; F.b.VA; M.b.VA) to Martha Ann Roper (17 1st. b. Pul.
Co.; F.b.KY; M.b.KY) on 24 Feb 1867. AHO David Roper. Bm: Josephus Campbell

 

Pulaski County Court, #21, p. 620(9?):
Know all men by these presents that I have this day nominated constituted and appointed my brother John Megenity of
Somerset, Ky. my agent and Attorney, in fact, and Thereby authorize and empower him my said agent and attorney to sell or otherwise dispose of or he may lease it for any term of years My entire interest in and to a Tract of land, situate in Pulaski Co., Ky. on the waters of Buck Creek containing sixty three, 63, acres Patented in the name of John D. Roper decd which interest is the one undivided half of said Tract of land, which descended to me from my ancestor the said John D. Roper decd as one of his Heirs. My said Attorney is hereby authorized and empowered to make and execute deeds of conveyance or Leases in my name to any or all of said interest in said land or any and all needful instruments of writing including assignments & deeds may be executed by him in my nmae to perfect the sale and conveyance or lease of said interest and they shall be as binding on me as if I had signed in my own name in person to such conveyance or and thereby satisfy and confirm all the actings and doings of said attorney. Given under my hand this 12th day of March 1866. Nancy X Elen Roper State of Ky., Pulaski Co. S.S.  I E. D. Porch Clerk of the County Court of the County aforesaid do Certify that this writing or Power of Attorney was this day produced to me in my house and acknowledged and delivered by the said Nancy Elen Roper to be her act and deed for the uses and purposes herein set forth and expressed. Stamped with Internal Revenue Stamp of $1.00 and that I ahve recorded it and this Certificate in my said office. Witness my hand this 12th day of March 1868. E. D. Porch Clk

 

US Census for Pulaski Co. in 1870:                               No.
Roper, David 45 farmer $200 KY; Sarah 47 KY; Martha 20 KY;        40
       Sarah E. 16 KY; James F. 7 KY
McGinity, John 54 barber $850 KY; Roper, Sarah 74 NC;             23        Roper, Mary J. 36 KY

 

I John McGininity of the town Somerset County of Pulaski and State of Kentucky being of sound and disposing mind and memory do make, declare and publish this my last will and testament. I give devise and bequeath my estate and property real and personal as follows that is to say, First, I give and bequeath to my half sister Mary Jane Roper the entire rental proceeds of the property where I now reside, (situate in the town of Somerset, on the west side of Main Street, and known as the sink hole property during her natural life. The same to be under the exclusive contral of my Executors herein after named who shall pay the proceeds of said property over to said Mary J. Roper as she may actually need the same for her support Second, I give and bequeath to the children of my brother William H. Mcginity said property at the death of my said half sister the same to be sold by my Executors and the proceeds equally divided amoung said children. Third, I give and devise to my brother William H. Mcginity who resides in Panoplion Co. Kansas (Doniphan?) the proceeds of all my property real & personal together with any money I may have on hands at my death (sure and except that set apart for the benefit of my half sister Mary Jane Roper) Said property however is all to be sold by my Executors and all my debts and my funeral expences paid off and discharged from the proceeds thereof and after my said debts & funeral expenses are paid off and discharged then the said William H. McGinity is to have the residue & provided he is? dead over to his children. Fourth, should my Executors die or fail to qualify or in any manner fail to carry out the provisions of this will it is my wish that the Master of Somerset Lodge No 111 A. F. and A. M. will take charge of and execute this will in the same manner and form as my Executors would be required to do under this instrument of writing. Fifth, and now reposing special trust and confidence in my friend and brother James A. McGee of the town of Somerset County of Pulaski and State of KY I hereby appoint him sole Executor of this my last will and testament: hereby revoking all former wills made by me. In witness whereof, I have hereunder set my hand and seal at Somerset this the 2d day of March 1885. John Mcginety
The above will was revised on
15 Feb 1889 to erect a monument over his grave at a cost not to exceed $350.
On
29 Sep 1892 the will was proved for John Mcginity, deceased.

 

Pulaski Co. deed book I, p.160: Whereas, in the action of Mary Roper's Admin against David Roper & C. pending in the Pulaski Co. Court, an order was entered at the July called term, 1889, directing S. A. Newell, Commissioner of said Court, to expose for sale, at public auction, to the highest and best bidder, the property hereinafter described; and whereas, said property was sold in accordance with said order, on the 19th day of August 1889, for the sum of one hundred and one Dollars and__cents, when J. P.  Nunnally became the purchaser thereof; and whereas, the report of said sale was confirmed by said court, at the October Term, 1889, and at the April Term, 1890, an order  was entered directing S. A. Newell, Commissioner, to execute a Deed of Conveyance of said property to said J. P. Nunnally, but for greater certainty, the record and proceedings in said case are referred to. Now, therefore, this Indenture, made and entered into this 22d day of April 1890, between David Roper, Nancy J. Roper, James McGinity, William McGinity and John McGinity, by S. A. Newell, Commissioner of the said Court of the first part, and John P. Nunnally of the second part, Witnesseth, that for and in consideration of the premises, and for the further consideration of the full payment of the purchase price aforesaid, the receipt whereof is hereby acknowledged, the party of the first part by S. A. Newell, Commissioner aforesaid, have sold and by this writing do convey to said party of the second part, and his heirs and assigns for ever, the following described property, to wit: A Tract of land, lying in Pulaski County, Kentucky on the waters of Buck Creek, and bounded as follows, Beginning at a white oak, standing on the ridge, and in George Humphries South east line of 60 acres survey not far from the corner, thence his line N. 10.W.41 poles to two gums on said line, thence N.80.E.134 poles to two gums and two dogwoods, thence S.30.E.30 poles to a large poplar and white oak corner of s Seminary survey, thence with said line, S.20.W.60 poles to a poplar and gum, thence N.81.W.120 poles to the Beginning, containing 50 Acres by survey patented in the name of John D. Roper, and willed by him to Mary Roper.  (Her heirs deeding)

 

Pioneer Families of MO: p.159: Hayden-Russell Hayden, of Marion Co., KY m Mary Roper, and they have nine children: Ellen, Nancy, James K. Margaret, Leo, Joseph T., Elizabeth, Mary J. & William B.