Thomas Oldham

Thomas Oldham's name appeared on tax lists as the head of family in Northumberland in 1782. In 1792 he was listed as the father of the bride in the marriage of Gracey Smith Oldham and Christopher Dameron.

Ann must have died before 1805. On December 4th, 1805 Thomas married Sarah Keene in Northumberland. It appears she died before 1820.

During the War of 1812 Thomas Oldham served in the Northumberland Militia. He was inducted in the rank of private discharged as a Sargeant. Even though he was over 60 Thomas still worked to defend the Northern Neck from the frequent British coastal raids.

Thomas Oldham was listed as the head of family in Northumberland county on both the 1810 and 1820 census forms. In 1810 household members were; one male over 45, one female over 45 and six slaves. In 1820 household members were recorded as; one male 26-44, one male over 45, one female 26-44, two free black males under 14, four slave males 14-25 and one slave male 26-44.

Thomas Oldham wrote his will November 25th, 1823. The will was probated on January 12th, 1824. Thomas left to his daughter Lucy Self, all the land he owned and a slave named James. He left to his daughter Gracey S. Dameron, a slave named Winney. Thomas left to his daughter Nancy Headley, a slave named Stephen. To his grandson, Leroy Oldham Dameron, Thomas left a slave named William. Thomas directed that the rest of his slaves and estate be sold and the profits split among his three daughters already named.