On 17 April 1844, a deed of trust was executed between Theodric W. Gatewood of the first part, Richard A. Boughan of the second part, and Orville Jeffries of the third part, all of the County of Essex. Whereas Orville Jeffries has become security for Gatewood in the following bonds to wit, one to Mrs S. Sewell due 1 January 1844 for $40, one to J. C. Clopton admor of Jas. Dunn for about $49, one to F. G. W. Smith guardian for (blank) Harper for $36.75, one to F. G. W. Smith & wife for about $36.75, two to W. S. Croxton, Guardian of H. Harper, each $36.75, and one to Nancy Mann due 1 January 1845 for $40. The said Gatewood is desirous to indemnify and secure Jeffries against loss. Now this indenture. For $5, Gatewood sells to Boughan a variety of personal property and one negro woman Dorcas, to be sold at public auction should Gatewood not satisfy the debts, otherwise this to be void. Signed T. W. Gatewood. No witnesses, but acknowledged before the clerk of the court on 22 April 1844. [Essex County, Virginia, Deed Book 48, pages 246–247.]

Orators and oratrices Rybourne M. Gatewood, John F. Gatewood, Ellen A. Gatewood and Juliet R. Gatewood, the last three infants under the age of 21 by Rybourne M. Gatewood their next friend. That Travis Gatewood their father died testate leaving a widow Nancy and eight children vizt Theodrick W. Gatewood, Richard F. Gatewood, Mary M. Gatewood who has married Benedict Clark, Rybourne M. Gatewood, John F. Gatewood, Ellen A. Gatewood, Juliet R. Gatewood, and Thomas Gatewood who died in 1844 underage. The widow died in March 1845 intestate. [Essex County, Virginia, Box Chancery No. 40, item 40-K-14.]

1850 U.S. Census, Essex County, Virginia
Dwelling 533, Family 533
Gatewood, Theoderick, 37, male, mechanic, $600 real estate, born in Virginia
Gatewood, Louisa, 35, female, born in Virginia
Gatewood, John, 13, male, born in Virginia
Gatewood, William, 7, male, born in Virginia