Genealogy
Robertsons / Robinsons of VA, NC, TN, KY and
related families
Table
of Contents
Tracing
the Robinson lineage, we begin in Prince George Co., Virginia
during the middle of the 17th century. Nicholas Robertson (b.
1655-67) of Bristol Parish and wife Sarah Marks are the earliest
confirmed progenitors. (Leading researchers offer credible evidence
of the identity of Nicholas' parents and grandparents, but no
conclusive proof has yet been found.) Seven generations later,
in the early years of the 20th century, we find our Robinsons
flourishing in south-central Kentucky. During the years between,
we follow the family through their migrations across North Carolina
and Tennessee.
Genealogy
and history go hand in hand; in tracing our lineage, we are also
tracking the development of the Old Southwest. The growth of the
family chronicles the expansion of settlement across western North
Carolina, Tennessee and Kentucky. From pre-Revolutionary War days,
we find our ancestors taking part in the shaping of our nation,
often at the vanguard of the movement westward. Along the frontier,
Robinsons can be found pressing the boundaries of civilization
forward into the wilderness, participating in the struggles that
guaranteed our liberty, and building communities to ensure the
safety of their families and neighbors.
In
the late 1700s and early 1800s, Kentucky held a promise of prosperity
for pioneers willing to brave the hardships of the new frontier.
The Robinsons were one of several Buncombe County, NC families
who followed Boone's Wilderness Road to Clay and nearby Kentucky
counties. There they flourished and multiplied, helping to carve
out homes and communities on hillsides and valleys throughout
the area.
One
descendant, Lois Robinson Dougherty, wrote of her respect and
love for our Robinson pioneer ancestors. She understood the significance
of their lives to those of their descendants. We who study family
history may echo her words:
"You
are all strong bridges from the dim past to the shadowy future.
A human span. So many of your seeds have been nurtured that your
earthly immortality flows on in a mighty stream of humanity. A
long strong file, linking you with the ancient boundaries of the
past, projecting you into the limitless expanse of the future.
The bright-dull threads of your lives are interwoven forever into
the changing fabric of your country."
Genealogy
Table of Contents
Robertsons
and Robinsons of VA, NC, TN and KY: the Descendants
of Nicholas Robertson
The
Robinsons of Clay and surrounding counties in south-central Kentucky
are a confusing and tangled lot. What is presented within this
website is an attempt to clarify the family lines, but undoubtedly
contains errors.
All
information found on these pages should be personally verified.
If
you can provide additions or corrections to any information within
these pages, please contact
me. Also, please submit any primary documentation you have
for these individuals, and I will be glad to post it here.
Much
of the information has been generously shared by Robinson cousins;
many thanks to all who contributed. Without your help, this website
would not be possible.
|
![[Robinson Cousin Homestead logo]](images/Robinson_barn_small_washout_text_6.jpg)