Arthur Barnes

In 1744 a deed was recorded showing Arthur purchased 200 acres of land near Accomac Courthouse for 20 pounds cash from Henry Ayres. But in 1750 Ayres was shown as reselling the same parcel to another party. The land was not mentioned in Arthur's estate.

Arthur married Elizabeth Melson, daughter of Joseph Melson, about 1745. They had one son.

In 1750 Arthur sold the 70 acres of the Barnes estate that he had inherited from his father to his brother, John, for 40 shillings. Later that year, he purchased 100 acres of land from Thomas Lilliston. The property was on the opposite side of Bundick Creek from the main Barnes estate and just to the north. Two years later Arthur sold the same parcel to Edmund Allen.

In 1753 Arthur bought 100 acres from Thomas and Tabitha Tatham for 50 pounds. This land passed to his so John, and then John passed it to his son, Arthur. The property was at the head of Hunting Creek.

Arthur wrote his will on September 6th, 1756. He left all of his land and possessions to his wife Elizabeth first and instructed that after her death or marriage that the inheritance should go to his son John. He named his brother William as executor. Arthur signed his name as "Arthur Barns" with no E.

Arthur Barnes' will was probated on February 23rd, 1757 in Accomack County Court. James Henry was named guardian of his son John. Arthur's brother William refused to act as executor of the estate and the Sheriff was ordered to sell the personal estate and make settlement for his debts. Based on the property records it appears that Arthur died on his land at Hunting Creek.