The Benjamin Taylor that I was looking for information about died in Recklesstown (now Chesterfield) in Burlington Co. He was a Farm Laborer and I doubt the miller that you spoke of. Does that disqualify him from the Pine Barrens Community? I hope not.
Marcia
Marcia:
My “obligatory” statement was a weak attempt at humor and should not be construed in any other way. I am confused by your statement that Benjamin died in New Hanover Township. Chesterfield Township has always contained Recklesstown, named for Anthony Reckless, a hero of the American War for Independence. This hamlet is geographically centered in Chesterfield and was never situated in New Hanover. If Benjamin worked as a farm laborer, then he probably did not have much of an estate. Did his father seek a similar type of employment? There is little doubt in my mind that the death notice you found is for the Chesterfield farm owner Thomas Taylor and not the father of your Benjamin. If you think there is any possibility that the Thomas you seek possessed some real or personal estate upon his death, you could check the following probate proceedings at either the Burlington County Courthouse or at the New Jersey State Archives:
Thomas Taylor Sr., Will and Inventory, 1826 (13683C)
Thomas Taylor Jr., Will and Inventory, 1846 (15256C)
Thomas Taylor, Will and Inventory, 1856 (16199C)
Based on the dating of probate proceedings for several Benjamin Taylors in the list, none appear to be the Benjamin you seek.
If you think your Thomas died with little or no estate and, hence, would have no probate proceedings, I suggest you check with the various church and public burial grounds in and around Chesterfield Township, although there may not be any markers for your ancestors. Still, extant cemetery records may yield some information. If you know Benjamin’s burial site, chances are your Thomas is there as well.
Best regards,
Jerseyman
