Hampshire County VA Genealogy

Fisher Genealogical History

This manuscript starts with Sebastian Fisher, a native of Germany, with his wife Susanna and their two small children, embarked for England at Rotterdam, Holland, on July 28, 1708. The family came with the intention of settling on land in the Schoharie Valley in New York, but found on arrival that they did not hold legal tender to the land, since the land was not first purchased from the Native Americans. Sebastian then moved with other German immigrants who had also purchased land to the Tulpehocken Valley of Pennsylvania, where he settled his family. The 76 pages of the manuscript take some of the descendants of Sebastian and Susanna Fisher into the 20th century.

Berry in Cottonwood Township

Philip Switzer, a Revolutionary War veteran, was born in Virginia in 1757 and died in Ohio in 1835. His legacy continued through his children, including notable figures like Valentine Switzer, a county commissioner and Civil War soldier. The Switzer family expanded through various marriages, leading to numerous descendants, many of whom played significant roles in their communities. The lineage includes military service members and local officials, highlighting their influence in Gallia County, Ohio, and beyond.

Remarks on Valentine Switzer

Valentine Switzer’s will was probated in Hampshire County, Virginia (now West Virginia) on May 14, 1817. He was the son-in-law of Stephen Hotzenbella, marrying Mary Hotzenbella. Valentine is recognized as the father of John Switzer, who owned lands in Bath County until relocating to Ohio. His descendant, William Franklin Switzer, dedicated years to tracing the Switzer lineage, discovering connections to significant historical records. Born in 1857, William contributed greatly to genealogy and the Methodist Episcopal Church over his lifetime.

Probated Will of Valentine Switzer

Valentine Switzer’s last will and testament outlines his wishes for the distribution of his estate upon his death. He instructs that all debts be settled before dividing his estate among his children, excluding his son Peter, who receives only one dollar. Special provisions are made for his son Nicholas, who is deemed incapable of managing his share. The will also notes bequests to his daughter Cathrene and specifies the appointment of executors to oversee the estate’s management, affirming that prior wills are void.

Biography of George Mitchell

George Mitchell was born to Rev. John Mitchell and Catherine Teter, who emigrated from England to America in 1774. John Mitchell served in the Virginia militia during the Revolutionary War and was a prominent preacher in Virginia. George’s lineage includes significant figures such as Rev. Anthony Jacob Henkel, a founder of the Lutheran Church in America. George’s daughter, Mrs. Guernsey, contributed to her community through various educational and philanthropic efforts, while her husband became a successful banker in Kansas.

Biographical Sketch of John W. Beavers

John W. Beavers was born on September 3, 1814, in Hampshire County, Virginia. He married Mary A. Madden in 1840, and together they had seven children. The family relocated to Illinois in 1854, then to Iowa in 1856, and settled in their final home in 1857. Beavers served as one of the first Road Commissioners and held the Supervisor position in his township for several years. He passed away on April 14, 1875, leaving behind his family, who continued to live on the homestead.