On 1 March 1664, John Kilman gave one cow calf unto James Boughan the son of James Boughan. Signed John his HH mark Kilman. Witnesses: Henry Crieighton, James his EF mark ffullerton. Recorded 5 July 1665. [(Old) Rappahannock County, Virginia, Wills & Deeds 1, pages 2–3.]

On 6 July 1671, Henry Crighton gave to “Jams Boughgnan Junior” one heifer with increase “now upon ye plantacon of James Boughgnan Senior”. Signed Henry Crighton. Witnesses: John Ham, John Exam. Recorded 12 July 1671. [(Old) Rappahannock County, Virginia, Deed Book 4, page 455.]

On 12 September 1671, James Boughan Junior purchased 150 acres of land from Thomas Batts, it being the 150 acres formerly granted to & deserted by James Boughan & then granted to Tho. Batts. Witnesses: Tumer [Turner?] [last name apparently illegible], John Owen. [(Old) Rappahannock County, Virginia, Deed Book 4, page 498.]

On 21 March 1677/8, James Boughan witnessed the will of James Fullerton of Piscatacon in the County of Rappahannock. Signed James Boughan. [(Old) Rappahannock County, Virginia, Will Book 2, pages 83–87.]

On 29 March 1678 James Boughan gave to his brothers John Boughan, Henry Boughan, and Alexander Boughan his whole right title and interest of a patent granted. “To all xpian people to whom these presents shall come Know yee that I James Boughan Doe for ye Singlular love & affection I beare to my brothers John Boughan, Henry Boughan, & Alexander: Boughan I doe freely give, grant, deliver & confirme to them ye said Jno Henry & Alexander: Boughan, my whole right, title & interest of that Pattent wch was in copartnership between Thomas Harper & my ffather lately Decd, bearing Date, ye eighth Day of Octob: 1672 to be equally Devided between my aforesaid brothers, To have & to hold ye said Lands wth all ye rights & priviledges thereunto belonging according to ye true intent & meaning of ye said pattent from me ye said James Boughan & from my heirs to my aforesaid Brothers John, Henry & Alexander Boughan & to their heires for ever, Provided allwaies that none of my said brothers shall at any time hereafter sell or dispose of his or their pte of ye said Land to any Stranger or person w:soever untill my said Brothers or my Selve doe refuse to buy it …” Signed James Boughan. Witnesses: Tho: Edmundson, Mary her M mark Edmondson. Recognized in court on 5 June 1678. [(Old) Rappahannock County, Virginia, Deed Book 6, page 41.]

On 10 June 1678, Thomas Harper and James Boughan agreed to a division of a patent of 1,000 acres granted in 1672 to Thomas Harper and James Boughan (father of this James Boughan). “To all Christian People to whom these presents shall come, Know yee that whereas in the yeare 1672 a lett. & pattent was granted by [Mr?] Wm. Berkley Knt. late Governor of this Collony, and the honble Councill of State unto James Boughan Senr and Thomas Harper of the County of Rappa: for one thousand acres of land lying in the said County upon the maine pocoson of Piscateway Creek and bounded as followeth … referrence being had to the pattnt: doth appeare, Now whereas the above said James Boughan Senior dying before any legall particon of ye said Land made Thomas Harper being obleidged by his obligcon unto the above said James Boughan and his heires to make an equal partition of the said Land unto the sd apparent heire of the said Boughan in case of his mortality, before a [illegible] Division made [Hath?] {illegible] the full Consent and approbation of James Boughan Junior made an equall partition of the said 1000 acres of land by a line of marked trees … And by the mutual consent and final agreemt. of the said Thomas Harper and James Boughan Junr apparent heire of James Boughan Senr lately decd, hath unanimously consented and firmly agreed unto, for themselves & their heires & for ever That the said Thomas Harper his heires Executors or assignes shall forever possess and peaceably enjoy the upper moyetie of the said land, beginning … and that the Said James Boughan Junr Shall peaceably …” Signed Tho. Harper, James Boughan. Witnesses: Francis Browne, Tho. Edmundson
Presented in court 6 November 1678 and recorded 28 January 1678/9.
[(Old) Rappahannock County, Virginia, Deed Book 6, pages 55–56.]

On 1 June 1680 James Boughan witnessed a deed from Thomas Pellese of the County of Rappahannock to his son Thomas Pellese. Signed James Boughan. [(Old) Rappahannock County, Virginia, Deed Book 6, page 111.]

On 29 September 1680 James Boughan received 150 acres in Rappahannock County, “upon the maine Sw. of Piscatoway Cr; certaine branches dividing this & land of Thomas Harper & Robt. Clements”. “Granted to Thomas Batts; deserted; & now due by order, &c. at James Citty”. [Virginia Patent Book 7, page 61.]

James received some land that had been deserted by his father, and then he too deserted it. On 20 September 1683, Col. Richard Johnson was awarded 150 acres of land in Rappahannock (Essex) County, “on maine Sw. of Piscattaway Cr.” The record adds: “Granted to James Baugham, 27 Feb. 1665/6, deserted, & granted to Thomas Batts; assigned to James Baugham, Junr., who deserted; granted to sd. Johnson by order &c., 16 Apr. 1680.” [Virginia Patent Book 7, page 326.]

On February 1683/4, “Order is granted against the Sheriff to mr Ricrd. Tunston for the non appearance of Jas. Baughun According to petition.” [(Old) Rappahannock County, Virginia, Order Book 1, 1683–1686, page 3.]

On 6 February 1683/4, judgement was granted to Henry Boughan against Mr [illegible] Waters for 1,000 pounds good scented tobacco and Cask “being Due for building a house for the said Waters … And James Baughan Attorney to Henry Baughan…” [(Old) Rappahannock County, Virginia, Order Book 1, 1683–1686, page 3.]

On 3 August 1687 James Boughan was a member of a South Side jury for Rappahannock County. [(Old) Rappahannock County, Virginia, Order Book 2, page 41.]

On 8 October 1687 a lawsuit in which James Boughan was plaintiff against Jos: Boland [could be Beland—see next entry], defendant, was delayed until next court. [(Old) Rappahannock County, Virginia, Order Book 2, page 50.]

On 8 October 1687 judgement was granted to James Boughan as assignee of William Morris for five hundred pounds of tobacco and cask by bill against Joseph Beland[?]. [(Old) Rappahannock County, Virginia, Order Book 2, page 56.]

On 4 April 1688 a case between Edward Thomas as assigne of Jno. Blake against James Boughan was continued until the next court. [(Old) Rappahannock County, Virginia, Order Book 2, page 79.]

On 4 April 1688 Ja: Boughan was a member of a jury. [(Old) Rappahannock County, Virginia, Order Book 2, page 81.]

On 6 September 1688 a lawsuit brought by John Waters against James Boughan was dismissed in court. [(Old) Rappahannock County, Virginia, Order Book 2, page 111.]

5 December 1688: “James Boughan Acknowledged himselfe indebted to the Worshipll. his Ma[jesties] Justices of Peace for this County in the sum of 5000lb of Tobb. & Casks To be Pd unto the sd Justices their heirs &c. in Case Richard[?] Wilton shall not prosicute his appeale made from an Order of this Court obteyned against him by John Waters.” [(Old) Rappahannock County, Virginia, Order Book 2, page 129.]

5 December 1688: “James Boughan & Don: Ma Carty appeared attorneys for Richd. Wilton”. [(Old) Rappahannock County, Virginia, Order Book 2, page 129.]

6 December 1688: “Order is granted against the shiriff to James Boughan for the non appirance of John ffargison according to declaration—”. [(Old) Rappahannock County, Virginia, Order Book 2, page 129.]

6 December 1688: “Non suit is granted to James Boughan Exer. of Richd Riach[?] against John Clark : he not appiraring to prosicute To be Pd wth Cost of suit als Cal[?].” [(Old) Rappahannock County, Virginia, Order Book 2, page 134.]

On 19 November 1690, “James Boughan making Informacon to this Court that Henry Pickett of this County within th: Space of Twleve months now lest past hath disposed of his his hous by was of R:tayl: Severall Quentities of Rum & Syder Contrary to th: 9th Act of Assembly held at James Citty th: 17th day of Septem: Ano Dom 1668 in that Case made & provided, Th: Court have therefor Ordered That th: High Shiriff or his Deputie do forthwith Summons th: sd Henry Pickett to appeare at the next Court had for this County to answer the sd Informacon”. [(Old) Rappahannock County, Virginia, Order Book 2, page 264.]

On 19 November 1690, James Boughan also reported that Thomas Coggin had sold rum and cider at his house. [(Old) Rappahannock County, Virginia, Order Book 2, pages 264–265.]

On 5 February 1690, James Boughan was sued in court by Anthony Smyth: “Antho Smyth brough his Action in this Court against James Boughan and declares that he was Possessed in his own Right on one man Servant Named Richd Holt wch Sd Servant on or about the 10th day of 8ber 1689 by the [illeg] & persuasion of the deft did absent himself & Runaway from the Plts service And was enterteyned by the Deft Severall Days & weekes, and that by Virtue of a Hue & Cry the sd Servant being Legally apprehended the sd Boughan Violently & by force & arms him the sd Richard Holt the Plts Servant did Rescue & take out of Custody of the Law, and sayed he would enterteyne the sd Servant untill the Plt could prove a better Right. The Deft. sayes the sd Richd Holt was no Servant to the Plt, wch being duly Proved by an [illeg] Indenture acknowledged before this Court, the whole Matter for Tryall was Refered to a Jury who being Impannelled & sworne by Name Jno Dangerfield ffran Browne Geo: Browne[?] Jno Meaders Wm Hamock[?] Tho: Green Peter Reyly[?] Jno Pettes Peter Evans Wm Price[?] Jno ffarguson & Jno Elliott who after Evidence heard brought in the following verdict We of the Jury find for the Plt five hundred Pounds of Tobb Wch Verdict the Court have Confirmed and Order that the sd James Boughan Pay unto the sd Antho Smyth five hundred Pounds of Tobb in Caske with all Cost of suit als Ex[?]. And that the sd Richd Holt forthwith Returne to the service of the sd Antho Smyth his master” [(Old) Rappahannock County, Virginia, Deed Book 2, 19th century transcription, page 283 in original.]

On 5 November 1691 James Boughan and John ffargison were ordered to inventory and appraise the estate of Thomas Evans. [(Old) Rappahannock, Virginia, Deed Book 2, 19th century transcription, page 334 in original.]

On 19 January 1694/95, James Boughan and Mary his wife, and John Boughan and Mary his wife of Essex County sold to John Dicks of the same county, for 8,500 pounds of tobacco in caske, all the remaining part or parcell of nine hundred acres of Land, by estimation five hundred acres more or less, scituate in Essex County on the south side of the Rappa. River, and bounding upon the Land of James Fallerton and Goodrich, and Capt. Richard Hails Land. Signed James Baughan, Mary Baughan, John Baughan, Mary her A mark Baughan. Witnesses: James his I mark Fogg, John Loyd. Ordered recorded on 10 May 1695. [Essex County, Virginia, Order Book 1, 19th century transcription, pages 390–391.]

On 19 January 1694/95, James Baughan and John Baughan, planters, of the County of Essex were bound unto John Dicks of the same county, Carpenter, in the sum of 16,000 pounds of good sound merchantable Tobacco & Casque. The condition of this obligation is such that if John Dicks shall may from henceforth forever peaceably occupy 500 acres granted by patent dated 20 April 1694 to James Baughan and John Baughan, then this obligation to void. [Essex County, Virginia, Order Book 1, 19th century transcription, page 391.]

On 10 February 1695, Robert Coleman, James Boughan and Francis Meriwether were bound in the penalty of 10,000 pounds of good, sound, merchantible tobacco, the condition of the obligation being that Robert Coleman was lycensed to keep an ordinary at Hobb’s his Hole, and that he respect the Sabbeth day and that he suffer noe person to Tipple or drink more than is necessary. [Essex County, Virginia, Deed Book 9, page 34.]

On 5 May 1696, James Boughan complained to the court of Essex that Robert Sandfilld was indebted to him 500 pounds of sweet tobacco. [Essex County, Virginia, Deed Book 9, page 87.]

On 4 August 1696, James Boughan was appointed attorney by Edward Hill Esq. of Charles Citty County. [Essex County, Virginia, Deed Book 9, page 86.]

Court of 10 9ber 1696: “In the difference between James Boughan pt & Wm Leake Deft re items of personall estate of Robert Sandfield…” Ordered items to be appraised. [Essex County, Virginia, Deed Book 9, pages 87–88.]

On 16 October 1696, James Boughan witnessed a deed from Wm Freeman and Elizabeth his wife to Tho Evett. [Essex County, Virginia, Deed Book 9, pages 81–82.]

On 14 December 1696, James Boughan complained to the court of Essex that John Glover was indebted to him 200 pounds of tobacco. [Essex County, Virginia, Deed Book 9, pages 86–87.]

On 15 November 1697, James Boughan was named executor in the will of George Park(e). “I do constitute & nomenat my will beloved ffrind James Boughan Sole & holle exectore…” He also gave him his land and plantation. [Essex County, Virginia, Deed Book 9, pages 152–154.]

On 22 December 1697 James Boughan witnessed the will of John Mess. [Essex County, Virginia, Deed Book 9, pages 163–165.]

On 10 January 1697/98, James Boughan, Robert Coleman, and Richd Covington were bound 30,000 pounds tobacco for James Boughan’s execution of the last will and testament of George Parke. Signed James Boughan, Robt Coleman, Richd Covington. Witnesses: Tho Hucklescott, James Knox. [Essex County, Virginia, Deed Book 9, pages 152–153.]

On 1 October 1698, “Resolved. That Mr Thomas Gregson & Mr James Boughan are duely elected & returned Burgesses to Serve in this assembly for Essex County.” [Journals of the House of Burgesses of Virginia, 1695-1696, 1696-1697, 1698, 1699, 1700-1702. Ed. by H. R. McIlwaine. The Colonial Press, E. Waddey Co., 1913, page 122.]

James Boughan was a member of the House of Burgesses for Virginia, assembled 27 April 1699, probably in Middle Plantation.

On 8 June 1699 James Boughan, gentleman, was appointed a justice of the peace by order of King William III. [Essex County, Virginia, Deed Book 10, page 1.]

On 11 September 1699 James Boughan sold to Thomas Gregson a parcel of 30 acres that was willed to him by George Parke, who died sometime after 1689. [Essex County, Virginia, Deed Book 10, pages 9–10.]

On 10 May 1700, James Boughan, John Battaile and Francis Gouldman were bound 10,000 pounds of tobacco for James Boughan’s appointment as sheriff of Essex County. Signed James Boughan, Jno Battaile, ffra: Gouldman. [Essex County, Virginia, Deed Book 10, page 36.]

“The Deposicon of James Boughan Aged 45 yeares or thereabouts saith that about 13 or 14 yeares ago or thereabout one Richard Bond came out of Maryland & his wife and brought with them one little Girl as I doe believe might be about Eight or Nine yeare old and I did severall times heare the said Bond wife say that that Girl was her daughter that she had by a former husband & that her name was Eliz: Muffit & that the said Girl is now marryed to Henry Johnson in this County & fider [further] saith not.” Xber ye 9th day 1700, Ja: Boughan. “The Deposicon within written was sworne to by the within named James Boughan in Essex County Court the 11th day of Xber 1700 and is truely Recorded according to an Order of the said Court — Test Francis Meriwether Cl Cur” [Essex County, Virginia, Deed Book 10, page 63.]

James Boughan posted bond with Henry Smith and Henry Adcocke for Henry Smith’s administration of the estate of Mary Smith, late widow of Richard Carter. [Essex County, Virginia, Deed Book 10, page 85.]

The will of John Webster, dated 8 September 1701, makes James Boughan senr. his executor. In the will, he gives unto Mary Boughan, wife of James Boughan, a gold ring of twenty shillings, but this Mary could be either Mary, wife of this James Boughan, or Mary Tyler, wife of this James’s nephew James Boughan. [Essex County, Virginia, Deed Book 11, pages 123–124.]

On 10 October 1701, James Boughan of the County of Essex sold to Henry Boughan of Gloucester County. For £20 sterling, 100 acres, more or less, in Essex County. Signed James Boughan. Witnesses: William Young, John Waters, Edward Duoland. [Essex County, Virginia, Deed Book 10, page 91.]

On 8 July 1702, James Boughan and Mary Boughan, with John Taylor, witnessed the will of William Johnson of Southfarnham Parish. The witnesses proved the will in court on 10 August 1702. [Essex County, Virginia, Deed Book 10, page 117.]

On 11 March 1702/1703, James Boughan made a gift of land and property to his son James Boughan. James Boughan of the County of Essex for and in Consideration of the naturall Love and effection I have unto my Son James Boughan. All my Land and plantation which I now have and hold and on wch my sd son James Boughan now dwelleth scituate lying & being on ye maine Swamp of Pescataway Creeke & known by the name of Pescataway Pocoson. But I shall have occasion to use timber for my Mill adjacent to the sd Land & for the consideration of the above I grant & give unto my sd son James Boughan all ye Stock of Cattell hogs which I now have on & are accustomed to be there upon ye sd Land & Plantation & all their Increase & also two ffeather beds & their ffurniture Twelve Chairs Two Tables wth what polls[?] and pewter which are there upon the plantation And also two Negro slaves one man & one woman the man slave called by the Name Robin & ye Woman Jenny. Signed James Boughan. Witnesses: Salvator Muscoe, Robt Moseley. [Essex County, Virginia, Deed Book 10, pages 136–137.]

James Boughan was a member of the House of Burgesses for Virginia, assembled 19 March 1702/03 in Williamsburg.

On 10 December 1703, Mary Webster, James Boughan, Tho: Gregson and William Young were bound £150 sterling for Mary Webster’s and James Boughan’s having obtained probate of the last will and testament of John Webster. Signed Mary her W mark Webster, James Boughan, Tho Gregson, Will Young. Witnesses: ffrancis Meriwether, Richard Buckner. [Essex County, Virginia, Deed Book 11, pages 136–137.]

On 10 February 1703, Arrabella Bird of the Parish of Sittenbourne in the County of Essex and Colony of Virginia, only Daughter and heir apparent of Henry White late of the same parish, planter, deceased, and neice and heir apparent of John White deceased who was the Eldest Son and heir apparent of Nicho White deceased, released to James Boughan of the parish of farnham and County and Colony aforesaid, plantr, land that had been leased to him the previous day. For £30 lawful money of England unto the said James Boughan, all that plantacon whereon John Griffin Shipwright lately dwelt & whereon the sd James Boughan now dweleth, by estimate 150 acres, on the west side of Piscataway Creek in the parish of ffarnham and County of Essex. Signed Arrabella her O mark Bird. Witnesses: Erasmus Allen, Will Young, Ja Alderson. Acknowledged and recorded 10 ffebruary 1703. Bond of £100 from Arrabella Bird to James Boughan of 10 February 1703, same witnesses. [Essex County, Virginia, Deed Book 11, pages 164–171.]

On 10 March 1703/1704, an inventory and appraisal of John Webster was recorded, made by John Waters, Will. Journey, Henry his R mark Woodnot and Andrew his x mark Dudding. Presented by James Boughan and Mary her W mark Webster. Total valuation £69.10.00. [Essex County, Virginia, Deed Book 11, pages 206–208.]

On 10 March 1703/1704, Eliza Bendry, James Boughan, and Edward Gouldman were bound £200 sterling for Eliza Bendry’s administration of the goods rights and credits of Thomas Bendry deceased. Signed Eliza her E mark Bendry, James Boughan, Edward Gouldman. [Essex County, Virginia, Deed Book 11, pages 205–206.]

James Boughan was a member of the House of Burgesses for Virginia, assembled 20 April 1704 in Williamsburg.

On 16 May 1704, James Boughan wrote to Robert Halsey in London:
Virginia, May the 16th 1704.
Mr Halsey
Sr These come to Inform you that your father hase bine dead in Jenewarye next tow yeares & he has made no will nor any of his blood heare to Inherit neither Landes goodes nor Chattels so that administration of his Estate is granted to me & upon ye apprasement off his Estate it Dide amount about one hundred & ten pounde &, ass for your father’s lande, heare is one Mr. Thomas Merewether has gotten & Escheat for it pretending that there is no hare for It but ass I have it in possession & iff you thinke ffite to come to it I wolde have you to send me a power to kepe it in possession for you or if you thinke fitt to sell it if you thinke fite to Impower me I shall do my best andeavour in ye sayle of it ffor your advantage but I wolde desire you to send me a power one way or other with what spede you can or Else ye possession off it will tbe taken away from me & for aught I know itt is like it will cost you the price off the Land, before you will (have,) it. Again, which is all that offers at present ffrom, Sr, your assured friend & Sart. unknown.
James Boughan
To Mr. Robert Halsey, to be left at Mrs. Anne Kay at the harp in ffirtness rentes in London. The prsent Janry 22d 1717. Proved by John Boughan son of ye said James to be his father’s handwriting.
…
On 9 November 1705, Francis Makemie wrote to Robert Halsey:
Virga Wmsburg 9ber 9th 1705.
Sr I had a tedious and sick voyage and could not Informe you last fleet any think of your affair, but this comes by a single ship bound for Bristoll & comes to informe you I brought hither three witnesses in my sloop besides myselfe to prove your papers at ye first Generall Court, which will be some charge to you and I came to Court seasonably; for Boughan after he had prevented Mr. Merryweather his Escheating your Land, by produceing to ye Jury of Inquisition your letters to your ffather, he immediately escheates for himselfe, and finding your 400 acres in the Escheat list, I made a motion to ye Court to stop his proceedings which was accordingly done, soe that I fear trouble from him; and I must draw bills on you for my charge, which I hope you will answer. Coll Churchill is now a councellr and will not take any personall trouble upon him, but countenances the thing, and soe my trouble upon him, but countenances the thing, and soe my trouble must be the greater living at so great distance by water. I am afraid the notary has not particularly described your ffather, by not calling him Tanner living at Piscataqua Creek in Rappahannock you may expect a further account [per] ye ffleet my service to Mr Parkhurst and let me know if he has or [is] likely to receive money for ye Catechisms, I am your most humble servant FFRANCIS MAKEMIE. Direct your letters to me at Accomack in Virginia.
To Mr. Robert Halsey to be found at Mr Thomas Parkhurst at ye three crowns & bible, Cheapside, London.
…
On 4 July 1706, Francis Makemie wrote to Robert Halsey:
Virga James River 7br 4 1706
Mr. Robert Halsey
Sr I wrote you formerly, which I hope came safe to hand, informing you that when I went to Wmsburg to prove and record your papers, I found Mr Boughan excheating your Land after he had prevented Mr Merryweather doing so by producinge your letters to your father to ye court of Jury of inquest, and I came searviceable to put a stop to it, and I have been lately with Mr Boughan who owns my power, and seems very ready to surrender and account, we went to ye Lane which he says is 300 acres tho as I wrote you I found in the Excheat list is 400 which he says is a mistake. The plantation is a ruined place, and Boughan seems inclinable to buy it, but greatly undervalues it, tho I believe I shall find a better Chapman as soon as I have a power to dispose thereof, & ye sooner the better, Coll Willm Churchill is a councillr and so great to be Employed & declines being concerned, so that ye whole matter, and all charges lyes upon me and I have made some disbursements already which few would at such distance have undertaken, with Effets in their hands, & having disbursed money for carrying the witnesses proving & recording your Papers, as Mr Layfield ye barer can Informe you, and I shall send [per] ye next an acct of particulars wch I cannot now, being abroad in ye fleet. When with Majr Boughan he showed me the Inventory of Personall Estate and his account of Disbursements and I find little of that coming to you but their are four particulars about personall Estate we could not agree about and as an Esyer way then former to stay with sloop and we consented to refer ye Decision of them to that County Court and as an Easyer way then former to stay with sloop and hands till ye Court, I employed a Gentleman of my acquaintance an attorney to propose it to Court & receive their opinion which when done that part will be soon settled, I found a poor shoemaker on ye land & desired him to live there till further order, he paying ye Quitt Rents. I have drawn upon you for money I am already out of pocket, and must be more before I get away and hope you will honour and pay a bill for 8 £ sterl twelve shillings I have endorsed to Mr Layfield and if you send a full power to sell your land sent it by Mr Layfield & let him & some with him bee witness.
I am in hast your srt FFRANCIS MAKEMIE. To Mr. Robert Halsey at Mr Parkhurst at the Bible & three Crowns [per] Mr Saml Layfield.
…
On 12 September 1708, Robert Beverley wrote to Robert Halsey:
Virga Sept. 12, 1708.
Sr while Mr Makemie lived he employed me to sue for ye account of your ffather Halseys Estate here, wch I did & sent him an account of it long before his Death, but finding that Mr Makemie had done nothing before his death but perhaps sent you ye copy of ye Reciepts wch I sent him, I was unwilling you should stil lye out your money, so told Coll Churchill of it, Joyned in our Lre of Attorney but he told he had all along refused to meddle & would not concern himself, I therefore desired him to give me your power of doing it, which he did & so comes ye Inclosed bill of Exchange. Your Land here lyes neglected, I understand there is a man lives upon it that pays no rent nor takes any care of repairs, Mr Boughan that draws this bill has a mind to buy it, he says, & has write to you of it, there are some Tobacco Debts which are still due, & now I have power shall get received for you this winter & send to you, if I can be further serviceable you may (if you please) make use of your humble servant
ROBERT BEVERLEY.
But you must send me a full Lre of Attorney
To Mr Robert Halsey, Stationer in London [per] Conrad Huntington.
[Old Letters of Francis Makemie, The William and Mary Quarterly, Vol. 21, No. 4 (April 1913), pages 278–283.]On 27 September 1704, James Boughan delivered a judgement in court. The original in his hand and with his signature is extant. [Virginia State Library, Research and Information Services Division, Essex County Court Records, County Court Papers 1683–1728, Folder 9/1704.]

On 10 January 1704, James Boughan delivered a judgement in court. The original in his hand and with his signature is extant. [Virginia State Library, Research and Information Services Division, Essex County Court Records, County Court Papers 1683–1728, Folder 7/1704.]

James Boughan was a member of the House of Burgesses for Virginia, assembled 18 April 1705 in Williamsburg.

On 15 October 1705, James Boughan delivered a judgement in court in the case of John Games against John Taylor. The original in his hand and with his signature is extant. [Virginia State Library, Research and Information Services Division, Essex County Court Records, County Court Papers 1683–1728, Folder 10/1705.]

On 15 October 1705, James Boughan delivered a judgement in court in the case of William Johnson against John Taylor. The original in his hand and with his signature is extant. [Virginia State Library, Research and Information Services Division, Essex County Court Records, County Court Papers 1683–1728, Folder 10/1705.]

On 6 December 1705, Major James Boughan won judgement against Robert Thornton for 730 pounds of sweetscented tobacco and cask. [Richmond County, Virginia, Order Book 4, page 4.]

Agnes Andrews provides the following notes: 8-F-31 deed from Harper to James Boughan. 5 acres at head of Piscatonon [?] Creek part of a tract formerly granted by patent to Oliver Segar. December 1705. 8-F-33 2 acres from Burnette to Boughan, 1706. [These could also be his son James.]

On 2 February 1705/06, James Boughan of South farnham parish in the County of Essex Gent. sold to Richard Holt and William Holt of the County aforesaid, planters. For and in consideration that Richard and William Holt have assigned to James Boughan all their right and title to 620 acres of land formerly belonging to Richard Holt of the County aforesaid, deceased, he conveys to them 200 acres of land lying in the aforesd: County of Essex towards the head of Cox:s Creeke upon the North Side thereof. Begining at a Small branch that Divideth if from the Land of Robert Young and Extending it Self Parallel to the Creeke one Hundred perches West South West unto the further Side of another branch into the woods North North West a mile, then sd: Bounds including a quadrangle. The Said Land having been Granted to the sd: James Boughan by Pattent dated the 20th day of Octobr: in the year Year of our Lord 1704. Signed James Boughan. Witnesses: Erasmus Allen, Martin Nall. Acknowledged in court on 11 February 1705/6 and recorded. [Essex County, Virginia, Deed Book 12, pages 163–165.]

On 2 February 1705/06, Richard Holt of Southfarnham parish in the County of Essex, planter, son and heire of Richard Holt of the aforesd: parish and County, deceased, and William Holt of the aforesd: parish and County, planter, Son and Devisee of the aforesd: Richard Holt Deced conveyed to James Boughan Senr: of the parish and County aforesd: Gent. In exchange for 200 acres of land lying in the aforesd: parish and County, which the sd: James Boughan hath Conveyed and made over to the aforesd: Richard and William, they convey unto James Boughan 620 acres of Land Granted to the sd: Richard Holt Deced by patent Dated the fourth day of Novembr: 1685, lying in the aforesd: Parish and County, begining at a Swamp called Kings Swamp below pescattaway Mill Joyning to the Land of Oliver Seager, runing thence in to the woods North by West One hundred and Sixty poles, thence West by the North two hundred and six pole to the Horse Path to two Small red Oaks, thence by Marked Trees westerly to the Land of Thomas Gaines & John Moraine, thence parrallel with the first line to the main Pocoson of Pescattaway, and down the Creek the Severall Courses Six hundred forty and two pole into the place where it first began. Signed Richard his RH mark Holt, William his WH mark Holt. Witnesses: John Games, Erasmus Allen. [Essex County, Virginia, Deed Book 12, pages 166–167.]

On 2 April 1706, James Boughan Senior conveyed to James Boughan Junior and Elizabeth Fisher. I James Boughan Senior of the County of Essex in Rappa. River in Virginia for valuable consideration but more especially for & out of the Naturall love & affection I have for, & hereunto, & for the future benefitt & advancement, I give, grant, & confirm unto James Boughan Junr. & Elizabeth ffisher my Son & Daughter the third part of all the Land contained in a Patent granted unto me the Said James Boughan & to Richard Covington & William Williams bearing date the twenty Sixth day of Aprill in the third year of the Reigne of our Soveraigne Lady Ann … Anno Dom 1704 containing 2400 Acres of Land, But by a read measurement made by Capt. Charles Smith 2550 Acres, which said Land is Situate & being in the County of Essex. Signed James Boughan. Witnesses: Jno. Games, Mary her x mark Wellch, Edw ffarrington. Acknoweldged in court in 10 April 1706 and ordered recorded. [Essex County, Virginia, Deed Book 12, pages 210–211.]

On 10 April 1706, John Burnett son and heire of John Burnett deceased of the County of Essex, for 70 pounds of tobacco sold unto James Boughan of ye said County 2 acres more or less in Essex County by the said Boughan’s Mill-Damm. Signed JBurnett. Witnesses: James Boughan Junr, Benja ffisher, John Gatewood. Recorded 10 April 1706. [Essex County, Virginia, Deed Book 12, pages 211–212.]

On 7 November 1706, a case brought by James Boughan of the County of Essex against William Norcut of Richmond County was dismissed, James Boughan not prosecuting. [Richmond County, Virginia, Order Book 4, page 212.]

He and his brother John apparently had some additional property that they deserted. Thomas Wood, John Wood, and Thomas Wood, Jr. were awarded 900 acres in Essex County of 20 April 1684. This was land adjacent “James Fullerton; Richard Gregory; the Horse path; Col. Goodrich & Mr. Henry Awbrey; & on land of Ball & Price. Granted James & John Boughan, 20 Apr. 1684, deserted & now granted by order, &c.” [Virginia Patent Book 7, page 279.]

On 24[?] February 1706/7, James Boughan delivered a judgement in court in the case of Francis Parker against Joseph Burgiss. The original in his hand and with his signature is extant. [Virginia State Library, Research and Information Services Division, Essex County Court Records, County Court Papers 1683–1728, Folder 2/1707.]

On 19 March 1706/7, James Boughan delivered a judgement in court in the case of Anthony Smith against Francis Moore. The original in his hand and with his signature is extant. [Virginia State Library, Research and Information Services Division, Essex County Court Records, County Court Papers 1683–1728, Folder 2/1707.]

On 23 October 1707, James Boughan wrote and signed a court document that citied Nathaniel Fogg as being the father of a bastard child. [Virginia State Library, Research and Information Services Division, Essex County Court Records, County Court Papers 1683–1728, Folder 10/1707.]

On 10 April 1708, Dorothy Henry, James Boughan and John Parker were bound £1000 sterling for Dorothy Henry’s administration of the Estate of Daniel Henry. Signed Dorothy her H mark Henry, James Boughan, John Parker. Witnesses: James Boughan Junr, Ja: Alderson. [Essex County, Virginia, Deed Book 13, pages 98–99.]

On 9 August 1708, an indenture was executed by and between Coll Richard Covington of the County of Essex, Major James Boughan, Mr Edward Gouldman, Mr Benja ffisher, and Mr James Boughan the Younger, all of the same County. Joyntly & Severally Seized of a tract on the south side of the Rappahannock River and upon the branches of Occupacia Creek, to divide equally, Do declare equal division by consent. One part to Colo Richard Covington of 1064 acres; one part to Major James Boughan, Benja ffisher and James Boughan the Younger of 1180 acres; one part to Edward Gouldman of 1122 acres. From a patent dated 25 Aprill 1704 to the said Richard Covington, James Boughan and William Williams, the said William Williams his part being already sold to the said Edward Gouldman. Signed Richd Covington, James Boughan, Edw Gouldman, Benja ffisher, James Boughan Junr. Witnesses: Wm Tomlin, Willm Daingerfield, Henry his H mark Reeves. Acknowledged 10 August 1708 and ordered recorded. [Essex County, Virginia, Deed Book 13, pages 120–122.]

On 5 January 1708, James Boughan wrote a letter that is still extant. [Virginia State Library, Research and Information Services Division, Essex County Court Records, County Court Papers 1683–1728, Folder 1695–1710.]

On 11 February 1709/10, a case was continued against James Boughan and Mary Webster: “At a Court continued & held for Essex County on ye Eleventh day of ffebry 1709/10 In the Suit in Chancery between William Smith Orphan by ffrancis Meriwether Gent. his Guardian plt and James Boughan & Mary Webster Defendts the Said plt in his Bill Setts forth that his ffather Anthony Smith dyed intestate possessed of a Considerable personell Estate consisting of… Administration of which Said Estate was grandted to Ann the widdow of the said Anthony who afterwards intermarried with John Webster late of this County, and the Said plt further sheweth that his said ffather left only four Children and one of them Agatha Smith by name afterwards in the lifetime of her Mother dyed intestate without husband of Child not having received her part of the Said Estate…” The bill goes on to say that John Webster died and appointed John Boughan and Mary Webster his executors and that they have taken part of the estate. [Virginia State Library, Research and Information Services Division, Essex County Court Records, County Court Papers 1683–1728, Folder 10/1707.]

James Boughan was a member of the House of Burgesses for Virginia, assembled 25 October 1710 in Williamsburg.

His will is dated 17 January 1711. A dispute arose several times over the validity and meaning of the will, including a 1754 lawsuit for recover of land. See Essex County, Virginia, Order Book 15, pages 127–129.

On 18 March 1711 a petition was brought to Essex County Court. “James Boughan presenting a petition for admini[hole]on of the Estate of his deced father James Boughan. James Boughan the youngest opposes the administration alledging that the deced left a will the sd petit[hole] theref[hole] next [hole] that the sd Boughan the youngest may produce his [hole]. [Essex County, Virginia, Order Book 4, page 427.]

On 11 July 1712, Robert Coleman deposed that he had made up a will for James Boughan: Robert Coleman of the Parish of South Farnham in the County of Essex Gent Aged about fifty Six years Deposeth and Saith that on the fourteenth day of January in the year of our Lord one Thousand Seven hundred & Eleven this Deponent was Sent for by Major James Boughan late Deced in his life time to Come to him the said Boughan & that this Deponent did then goe to him & being with him at his house the said Boughan did then desire this Deponent to make his the said Boughans Will. And that the said Boughan then told this Deponent he had a Will by him and that he the said Boughan would have that destroyed and would have another Will made which this Deponent then accordingly did for him the said Boughan The Contents of which said Will so then made by this Deponent for the said Boughan and by the said Boughans directions is as followeth and in the following words to the best of this Deponent Remembrance (the Preamble of the said will Excepted) that is to Say, First I give & bequeath unto my loving daughter Frances Stark the wife of John Stark and unto her heires for ever all that Tract or parcell of Land lying in King William County containing about five hundred acres Purchased by me of Henry Kirby & all the houses & appurtences [sic] thereunto belonging and my bay Mare.
Secondly I give unto my Grandson Thomas Stark the Colt that now belongs to my bay mare.
Thirdly I give unto my loving Daughter Elizabeth ffisher one Gold ring of Twenty Shillings.
Fourthly I give unto Susanna Jones one Cow and Calfe & one Gold ring of Twenty Shillings.
ffifthly I Give and bequeath unto my loveing Son John Boughan one Gold ring of Twenty Shillings price
Sixthly I lend unto my Brother Henry Boughan one Third part of my water mill dureing his naturall life & to receive one third part of the profitts thereof Provided he is at one third part of the charge of Repairing the Mill & keeps a good & Sufficient Miller there to do all such things as a Miller ought to doe and I give my Brother Henry all my wearing Cloaths.
Seventhly I give & bequeath unto my beloved Grandson James Boughan the Son of my Son James Boughan all my Land & Plantation whereon I now live together with my Water Mill And all that Tract of Land that I bought of ye Holts together with my old Plantations wth ye Ippurtences thereunto belonging I give & bequeath unto my sd loving Grandson and the issue of his Body lawfully begotten and for want of such Issue to my Grandson John Boughan the Son of my Son James Boughan & to the issue of his body lawfully begotten and for want of such issue to the heires of my loveing Brother Henry Boughan and their heires for ever and for want of further heires to the next heir in blood.
My Will & desire is that none of the before mentioned Lands nor Mill be Leased or let out by or to any person for above two years at one time.
All the rest of my Estate of what nature or quality Soever I Give unto my Loveing Son James Boughan & his heires for ever whome I do appoint my whole & Sole Executor of this my last will & Testament In Witness whereof I have hereunto Sett my hand & Seale this fourteenth day of January one Thousand Seven hundred & Eleven.
And this Deponent further Saith that after he had made the Will in manner & forme & to the effect aforesd the Said Major Boughan then took the will from this Deponent & Red it all over Nay he Red over every particular Bequest & as they were Sett down Paragraph by Paragraph & declared he approved thereof And that the Same was in every respect agreeing to his Will and then imediatly afterwards he the Said Major James Boughan did Signe Seale publish & declare the Said Will so made by this Deponent to be his last will & Testament in the presence of this Deponent one John Chamberlin Anne Atkins and the aforesaid Susanna Jones and that the Said Major James Boughan then did bid the said Chamberlin Atkins & this Deponent to take notice that he the said Major James Boughan was not mad nor drunk but was in his right Senses and this Deponent Saith that the said Majr James Boughan was then in his perfect Senses & memory to the best of this Deponents knowledge and that he the said Major Boughan did then desire this Deponent to burne his former will which he this Deponent then did and further that he this Deponent did Signe the said Will as a witnesse thereunto in the presence of the Said Boughan
Robt Coleman
At a Court held for Essex County the 11th day of July 1712.
Robert Coleman made oath to this his Deposition which by the order of August Court 1712 is Recorded as the Will of James Boughan Deced [Essex County, Virginia, Deed Book 14, pages 76–77.]

On 11 July 1712, John Chamberlain deposed that he had witnessed the will of James Boughan: John Chamberline of the Parish of South ffarnham in the County of Essex Planter aged about one & twenty years Deposeth and Saith that he was desired to goe to Major Boughans late of the Parish & County aforesd Deced in his lifetime And that Capt Robert Coleman did (on Wednesday ye fourteenth day of January one Thousand Seven hundred & Eleven as this Deponent believes) goe with this Deponnent to the Said Major Boughans and that the said Coleman was some considerable time in private wth the said Boughan and that afterwards that Same day this Deponant was Sent for by the Said Boughan to come into his Chamber and that the Said Coleman was then in the Chamber wth the Said Boughan & one Susanna Jones was also in the said Chamber then And that one Anne Atkins was sent for then to come into the said Chamber And that the said Boughan did then tell this Deponent he had made his Will and desired this Deponent to be a witnesse to it. And this Deponent Saith that he then did see the Said Major Boughan Signe & Seale a paper and publish & declare the Same to be his last will & Testament in this presence of this Deponent the said Coleman Anne Atkins and Susanna Jones And that the said Major James Boughan was then in his perfect Sense & memory to the best of this Deponents knowledge and that the said Major Boughan desired the Said Coleman to burn his the said Boughans former Will, & that it was then burnt and that this Deponent did Signe the Said Will Soe then made by the said Major Boughan together with the said Coleman and Anne Atkins as a Witnesse to the Same. [Essex County, Virginia, Deed Book 14, page 77.]

On 19 August 1712, Ann Atkins deposed that she had witnessed the will of James Boughan: Anne Atkins a Servant woman that did belong to Major James Boughan late deced in his lifetime on the fourteenth day of January one Thousand Seven hundred & Eleven (as She believes) was Sent for into the said late Major Boughans Chamber and that Capt Coleman Mr Chamberline and Susanna Jones were in the Chamber and that She Saw in Said Major Boughan then Signe & Seale a Paper which She thought & believed to be the will of the Said Boughan And that the Said Boughan then was in his perfect Sence & memory to the best of this Deponents knowledge And that this Deponent did then together with the Said Coleman and Chamberline Signe the Said Paper as a witnesse to the Same in the presence of the Said Boughan, And three or four days afterwards being againe in her Said Masters Room She heard him Say had a Desire to have a new will made, and Said to that Effect, two or three times and Seemed Dissatisfied with the will he had before made[.] [Essex County, Virginia, Deed Book 14, page 78.]

An inventory and appraisal of the estate of James Boughan was made on 3 September 1712 by Wm Covington, Ja: Fullerton and Fran: Moore pursuant to an order of 19 August 1712. The inventory included a servant woman Ann Atkinson, several slaves, several feather beds a silver hilted sword, a silver headed cane, an officer’s leading staff, livestock and crops. Total valuation £226.2.9. Additional inventory was made by James Boughan, John Boughan and Benja ffisher, totaling 9251 pounds of tobacco. Presented on 8 January 1712/1713 by James Boughan, John Boughan and Benja ffisher and recorded. [Essex County, Virginia, Deed Book 14, pages 93–95.]

On 14 January 1713/14, James Boughan Senr. of the parish of South farnham in the County of Essex planter Son & heir of James Boughan of the parish & County aforesaid Dec’d sold to Henry Boughan of ye parish & County aforesd, planter. In consideration of a certain parcel of land convey’d to him the said James Boughan by the said Henry Boughan, James Boughan sells to Henry Boughan all his right and title that he, the said James Boughan, hath in and to a certain Patent of land that was formerly in Copartnership betwen Thomas Harper and his Grandfather James Boughan both Dated and formerly given by a Deed from under the hand & Seal of his father James Boughan to John Boughan, Henry Boughan & Alexander Boughan bearing date the Twenty Ninth day of March 1678, which said Patent bearing date the Eighth day of October One Thousand Six hundred Seventy two. Signed James Boughan. Witnesses: James Edmondson, Jos Baker. Acknowledged in court on 14 January 1713. [Essex County, Virginia, Deed Book 14, page 168.]