Richmond (Va.) Circuit Court

Incorporated in May 1911, the National Auto Schools Corporation operated for a brief period in Richmond, Va.

From the guide to the National Auto Schools Corporation Stock Book, 1911, (The Library of Virginia)

This unidentified business operated in Richmond, Va., during the late nineteenth century.

From the guide to the Unidentified Cashbook, 1888-1891, (The Library of Virginia)

Richmond, located between Henrico and Chesterfield Counties, was named by William Byrd II, who envisioned the development of a city at the falls of the James River and with the help of William Mayo laid out the town in 1737. Richmond was established in 1742 and in 1779 was designated the capital of Richmond effective April 1780. It was incorporated as a city in 1842. Richmond was enlarged by annexation of Manchester (or South Richmond) in 1910, and by the addition of Barton Heights, Fairmount, and Highland Park in 1914.

Grace Street Baptist Church was organized in 1833 as Third Baptist Church by members of Second Baptist Church. In 1845, the congregation moved to Foushee and Grace Streets and the name was changed to Grace Street Baptist Church. In 1923, the congregation moved to Grove Avenue and Boulevard, and the name was officially changed to Grace Baptist Church in 1925. Fires in 1896 and 1946 destroyed many church records. The Sunday school was also organized in 1833.

From the guide to the Grace Street Baptist Church (Richmond, Va.) Records, 1872-1912 (bulk 1872-1885), (The Library of Virginia)

James P. Elam operated a general store in Clarksville, Va., during the 1830s.

Chesterfield County was named for Philip Dormer Stanhope, fourth earl of Chesterfield, British statesman and diplomat, and was formed from Henrico County in 1749. Silas Cheatham was a sheriff in Chesterfield County and later served as clerk to the circuit court from 1847 to 1865.

From the guide to the James P. Elam Journal and Chesterfield County (Va.) Estate Records, 1835-1848, (The Library of Virginia)

Manchester was established as a town by the General Assembly in November 1769. According to this act, "the honorable William Byrd hath lately laid out a parcel of his lands at Rocky Ridge, at the falls of the James River, in the county of Chesterfield, in lots and streets for a town." Directors and trustees were appointed and the town was named Manchester. The town was incorporated on February 27, 1834. On March 20, 1874, a city charter was approved by the General Assembly and the city was divided into 4 wards. Three members from each ward served on the City Council, the main governing body of the city along with the mayor. On April 15, 1910, the city of Manchester was officially annexed to the City of Richmond with the provisos that a free bridge would be constructed to connect Manchester with Richmond and that Manchester would retain a courthouse. Today the area is also known as South Richmond. The town of Manchester was named probably for Manchester Parish in Chesterfield County. The parish in turn was named either for George Montague, fourth duke of Manchester, or for the town of Manchester, England.

According to the city's charter, "the city council shall have authority to...appoint such committees, as they may deem proper for the regulations of their proceedings and for the convenient transaction of business."

From the guide to the Manchester (Va.) Maury Cemetery Committee Minute Book, 1907-1910, (The Library of Virginia)

The Fredericksburg Lumber Company operated in Fredericksburg, Va., through the mid-twentieth century.

From the guide to the Fredericksburg Lumber Company Stock Book, 1910-1911, (The Library of Virginia)

Manchester was established as a town by the General Assembly in November 1769. According to this act, "the honorable William Byrd hath lately laid out a parcel of his lands at Rocky Ridge, at the falls of the James River, in the county of Chesterfield, in lots and streets for a town." Directors and trustees were appointed and the town was named Manchester. The town was incorporated on February 27, 1834. On March 20, 1874, a city charter was approved by the General Assembly and the city was divided into 4 wards. Three members from each ward served on the City Council, the main governing body of the city along with the mayor. On April 15, 1910, the city of Manchester was officially annexed to the City of Richmond with the provisos that a free bridge would be constructed to connect Manchester with Richmond and that Manchester would retain a courthouse. Today the area is also known as South Richmond. The town of Manchester was named probably for Manchester Parish in Chesterfield County. The parish in turn was named either for George Montague, fourth duke of Manchester, or for the town of Manchester, England.

From the guide to the Manchester (Va.) Land Record Book, 1867-1909, (The Library of Virginia)

The unidentified business operated in Richmond, Va., during the late nineteenth century. It is possible that the business was Julius Meyer and Sons, a dry-goods firm in Richmond operated by German immigrant Julius Meyer and his sons Henry H., Alexander, and William Meyer.

From the guide to the Unidentified Cashbook, 1887-1889, (The Library of Virginia)

The City of Richmond was named by William Byrd (1674-1744), who envisioned the development of a city at the falls of the James River and with the help of William Mayo laid out the town in 1737. The name probably came from the English borough of Richmond upon Thames, which Byrd visited on several occasions. Richmond was established in 1742 and in 1779 was designated the capital of Virginia effective 30 April 1780. It was incorporated as a town, although "stiled the city of Richmond," in 1782 and was incorporated as a city in 1842. It served as the capital of the Confederacy from mid-1861 to April 1865. Richmond was enlarged by the annexation of Manchester (or South Richmond) in 1910, and by the addition of Barton Heights, Fairmount, and Highland Park in 1914. Further annexations from Chesterfield County occurred in 1942 and 1970.

From the guide to the Richmond (Va.) Cases and Ended Cases, 1945-1963, (The Library of Virginia)

This unidentified liquor dealer operated in the Richmond, Va., area during the early twentieth century.

From the guide to the Unidentified Liquor Dealer Ledger, 1912-1913, (The Library of Virginia)

This unidentified grocer operated in Richmond, Va., during the late nineteenth century.

From the guide to the Unidentified Grocer Ledger, 1890, (The Library of Virginia)

The unidentified business operated in Richmond, Va., during the late nineteenth century. It is possible that the business was Julius Meyer and Sons, a dry-goods firm in Richmond operated by German immigrant Julius Meyer and his sons Henry H., Alexander, and William Meyer.

From the guide to the Unidentified Ledger of Northern Accounts, 1890, (The Library of Virginia)

Born in Ireland, James Murphy was a soap and candle manufacturer in Richmond, Va. In the late 1860s, Murphy switched industries to become a retail grocer.

From the guide to the James Murphy Ledger, 1859-1873, (The Library of Virginia)

Jacob Shook was a butcher and grocer operating in Richmond, Va., during the mid-nineteenth century.

From the guide to the Jacob Shook Daybook, 1828-1832, (The Library of Virginia)

Chartered in September 1890, the Lisburn Land Company purchased land to improve and sell in Richmond and Henrico County.

From the guide to the Lisburn Land Company Minute Book and Stock Ledger, 1890-1901, (The Library of Virginia)

Created in 1865, First National Bank was one of the first banks established in Virginia after the Civil War.

From the guide to the First National Bank Ledger, 1871-1877, (The Library of Virginia)

The City of Richmond was named by William Byrd (1674–1744), who envisioned the development of a city at the falls of the James River and with the help of William Mayo laid out the town in 1737. The name probably came from the English borough of Richmond upon Thames, which Byrd visited on several occasions. Richmond was established in 1742 and in 1779 was designated the capital of Virginia effective 30 April 1780. It was incorporated as a town, although "stiled the city of Richmond," in 1782 and was incorporated as a city in 1842. It served as the capital of the Confederacy from mid-1861 to April 1865. Richmond was enlarged by the annexation of Manchester (or South Richmond) in 1910, and by the addition of Barton Heights, Fairmount, and Highland Park in 1914. Further annexations from Chesterfield County occurred in 1942 and 1970.

Manchester was established in 1769 on land owned by William Byrd (1728-1777) on the south bank of the James River. The General Assembly had authorized Fort Charles to be built there in 1645, and the site was soon named Rocky Ridge. After its establishment in 1769, the newly laid-out town was named probably for Manchester Parish in Chesterfield County. The parish in turn was named either for George Montague, fourth duke of Manchester, or for the town of Manchester, England. Incorporated as a town in 1834, Manchester served as the county seat for Chesterfield County from 1871 until 1874 when it was incorporated as a city (although Chesterfield did not move its courthouse until 1876). In 1910 Manchester was consolidated with the city of Richmond with the provisos that a free bridge would be constructed to connect Manchester with Richmond and that Manchester would retain a courthouse. Today the area is also known as South Richmond.

Police Court was a city court that had jurisdiction in all petit criminal cases that involved only confinement in jail and smaller fines, including minor traffic violations, public-health nuisances, petty theft or assault, violations of city ordinances, and warrants for indebtedness. Persons arrested for greater criminal violations could begin their legal process at the Police Court and be referred on to higher courts for trial or other disposition of their case. The police justice was an elected city official.

From the guide to the Manchester (Va.) Police Court Records, 1866-1910, (The Library of Virginia)

Manchester was established as a town by the General Assembly in November 1769. According to this act, "the honorable William Byrd hath lately laid out a parcel of his lands at Rocky Ridge, at the falls of the James River, in the county of Chesterfield, in lots and streets for a town." Directors and trustees were appointed and the town was named Manchester. The town was incorporated on February 27, 1834. On March 20, 1874, a city charter was approved by the General Assembly and the city was divided into 4 wards. Three members from each ward served on the City Council, the main governing body of the city along with the mayor. On April 15, 1910, the city of Manchester was officially annexed to the City of Richmond with the provisos that a free bridge would be constructed to connect Manchester with Richmond and that Manchester would retain a courthouse. Today the area is also known as South Richmond. The town of Manchester was named probably for Manchester Parish in Chesterfield County. The parish in turn was named either for George Montague, fourth duke of Manchester, or for the town of Manchester, England.

From the guide to the Manchester (Va.) City Council Minute Books, Vols. 2-5, 1875-1909, (The Library of Virginia)

Manchester was established as a town by the General Assembly in November 1769. According to this act, "the honorable William Byrd hath lately laid out a parcel of his lands at Rocky Ridge, at the falls of the James River, in the county of Chesterfield, in lots and streets for a town." Directors and trustees were appointed and the town was named Manchester. The town was incorporated on February 27, 1834. On March 20, 1874, a city charter was approved by the General Assembly and the city was divided into 4 wards. Three members from each ward served on the City Council, the main governing body of the city along with the mayor. On April 15, 1910, the city of Manchester was officially annexed to the City of Richmond with the provisos that a free bridge would be constructed to connect Manchester with Richmond and that Manchester would retain a courthouse. Today the area is also known as South Richmond. The town of Manchester was named probably for Manchester Parish in Chesterfield County. The parish in turn was named either for George Montague, fourth duke of Manchester, or for the town of Manchester, England.

According to the city's charter, "the city council shall have authority to...appoint such committees, as they deem proper for the regulations of their proceedings and for the convenient transaction of business."

From the guide to the Manchester (Va.) Board/Committee Minute Books, 1875-1910 (bulk 1900-1910), (The Library of Virginia)

Manchester was established as a town by the General Assembly in November 1769. According to this act, "the honorable William Byrd hath lately laid out a parcel of his lands at Rocky Ridge, at the falls of the James River, in the county of Chesterfield, in lots and streets for a town." Directors and trustees were appointed and the town was named Manchester. The town was incorporated on February 27, 1834. On March 20, 1874, a city charter was approved by the General Assembly and the city was divided into 4 wards. Three members from each ward served on the City Council, the main governing body of the city along with the mayor. On April 15, 1910, the city of Manchester was officially annexed to the City of Richmond with the provisos that a free bridge would be constructed to connect Manchester with Richmond and that Manchester would retain a courthouse. Today the area is also known as South Richmond. The town of Manchester was named probably for Manchester Parish in Chesterfield County. The parish in turn was named either for George Montague, fourth duke of Manchester, or for the town of Manchester, England.

According to the city's charter, "the city council shall have authority to...appoint such committees, as they may deem proper fro the regulations of their proceedings and for the convenient transaction of business."

From the guide to the Manchester (Va.) Street Committee Records, 1888-1910, (The Library of Virginia)

Originally from New York, Samuel P. Lathrop relocated to Richmond, Va., where he was a dry-goods merchant during the late nineteenth century.

From the guide to the Samuel P. Lathrop Checkbook, 1878, (The Library of Virginia)

Julius Meyer and Sons was a dry-goods business operating in Richmond, Va., during the late nineteenth century selling ready-made clothing, textiles, and household items. The mercantile firm consisted of German immigrant Julius Meyer and his sons Henry H., William, and Alexander Meyer.

From the guide to the Julius Meyer and Sons Business Records, 1888-1890, (The Library of Virginia)

Robert Nowlan Macomber was a member of the Macomber family who were part owners in the Nowlan Company, a Richmond area jeweler. The Nowlan Company was established in 1850 in Petersburg by Thomas Nowlan. In 1866, Thomas Nowlan joined with partners Robert E. Macomber and Robert L. Winston and relocated the business to Richmond. For most of his adult life Robert Nowlan Macomber was a patient at Western State Hospital; however, he still held a claim on the Nowlan Company and his estate's funds were derived from the business.

From the guide to the Robert Nowlan Macomber Checkbook, 1912-1914, (The Library of Virginia)

Manchester Supply Company operated briefly in the early 1900s in the city of Manchester, which was officially annexed to the City of Richmond in 1910. Today the area is also known as South Richmond.

From the guide to the Manchester Supply Company Daybooks, 1901-1902, (The Library of Virginia)

Manchester was established as a town by the General Assembly in November 1769. According to this act, "the honorable William Byrd hath lately laid out a parcel of his lands at Rocky Ridge, at the falls of the James River, in the county of Chesterfield, in lots and streets for a town." Directors and trustees were appointed and the town was named Manchester. The town was incorporated on February 27, 1834. On March 20, 1874, a city charter was approved by the General Assembly and the city was divided into 4 wards. Three members from each ward served on the City Council, the main governing body of the city along with the mayor. On April 15, 1910, the city of Manchester was officially annexed to the City of Richmond with the provisos that a free bridge would be constructed to connect Manchester with Richmond and that Manchester would retain a courthouse. Today the area is also known as South Richmond. The town of Manchester was named probably for Manchester Parish in Chesterfield County. The parish in turn was named either for George Montague, fourth duke of Manchester, or for the town of Manchester, England.

From the guide to the Manchester (Va.) Journals of the City Assembly, 1901-1910, (The Library of Virginia)

Richmond, located between Henrico and Chesterfield Counties, was named by William Byrd II, who envisioned the development of a city at the falls of the James River and with the help of William Mayo laid out the town in 1737. Richmond was established in 1742 and in 1779 was designated the capital of Richmond effective April 1780. It was incorporated as a city in 1842. Richmond was enlarged by annexation of Manchester (or South Richmond) in 1910, and by the addition of Barton Heights, Fairmount, and Highland Park in 1914.

Fifth Street Baptist Church was organized in 1880 from First (African) Baptist Church in Richmond. The Reverend A.E. Edwards was pastor of the church circa 1905 to 1908, when the congregation sought the return of the previous pastor.

From the guide to the Fifth Street Baptist Church (Richmond, Va.) Membership List, 1907, (The Library of Virginia)

Manchester was established as a town by the General Assembly in November 1769. According to this act, "the honorable William Byrd hath lately laid out a parcel of his lands at Rocky Ridge, at the falls of the James River, in the county of Chesterfield, in lots and streets for a town." Directors and trustees were appointed and the town was named Manchester. The town was incorporated on February 27, 1834. On March 20, 1874, a city charter was approved by the General Assembly and the city was divided into 4 wards. Three members from each ward served on the City Council, the main governing body of the city along with the mayor. On April 15, 1910, the city of Manchester was officially annexed to the City of Richmond with the provisos that a free bridge would be constructed to connect Manchester with Richmond and that Manchester would retain a courthouse. Today the area is also known as South Richmond. The town of Manchester was named probably for Manchester Parish in Chesterfield County. The parish in turn was named either for George Montague, fourth duke of Manchester, or for the town of Manchester, England.

From the guide to the Manchester (Va.) Delinquent Tax Book, 1895-1913, (The Library of Virginia)

Manchester was established as a town by the General Assembly in November 1769. According to this act, "the honorable William Byrd hath lately laid out a parcel of his lands at Rocky Ridge, at the falls of the James River, in the county of Chesterfield, in lots and streets for a town." Directors and trustees were appointed and the town was named Manchester. The town was incorporated on February 27, 1834. On March 20, 1874, a city charter was approved by the General Assembly and the city was divided into 4 wards. Three members from each ward served on the City Council, the main governing body of the city along with the mayor. On April 15, 1910, the city of Manchester was officially annexed to the City of Richmond with the provisos that a free bridge would be constructed to connect Manchester with Richmond and that Manchester would retain a courthouse. Today the area is also known as South Richmond. The town of Manchester was named probably for Manchester Parish in Chesterfield County. The parish in turn was named either for George Montague, fourth duke of Manchester, or for the town of Manchester, England.

From the guide to the Manchester (Va.) Board of Trustees Minute Books, 1811-1875, (The Library of Virginia)

Manchester was established as a town by the General Assembly in November 1769. According to this act, "the honorable William Byrd hath lately laid out a parcel of his lands at Rocky Ridge, at the falls of the James River, in the county of Chesterfield, in lots and streets for a town." Directors and trustees were appointed and the town was named Manchester. The town was incorporated on February 27, 1834. On March 20, 1874, a city charter was approved by the General Assembly and the city was divided into 4 wards. Three members from each ward served on the City Council, the main governing body of the city along with the mayor. On April 15, 1910, the city of Manchester was officially annexed to the City of Richmond with the provisos that a free bridge would be constructed to connect Manchester with Richmond and that Manchester would retain a courthouse. Today the area is also known as South Richmond. The town of Manchester was named probably for Manchester Parish in Chesterfield County. The parish in turn was named either for George Montague, fourth duke of Manchester, or for the town of Manchester, England.

According to the city's charter, "the city council shall have authority to...appoint such committees, as they may deem proper for the regulations of their proceedings and for the convenient transaction of business."

From the guide to the Manchester (Va.) Finance Committee Minute Books, 1878-1910, (The Library of Virginia)

Mechanics Building Company operated in Richmond, Va., during the late nineteenth century. Early board members of the company included Richmond area merchants Julius Ide and John A. Kratz.

From the guide to the Mechanics Building Company Journal No. 3, 1877-1886, (The Library of Virginia)

Richmond was established in 1742. It was incorporated as a town in 1782 and a city in 1842. Richmond annexed the city of Manchester in 1910; Barton Heights, Fairmont, and Highland Park in 1914; and part of Chesterfield County in 1970.

From the guide to the Richmond (Va.) Bill of Sale, November 1837, (The Library of Virginia)

Clarkson Anderson and Company operated in Richmond, Va., during the late nineteenth century.

From the guide to the Clarkson Anderson and Company Ledger, 1859-1867, (The Library of Virginia)

The Commonwealth Bank operated in Richmond, Va., during the early twentieth century. The bank was known as the Realty Bond and Trust Company before changing its name in 1906. In August 1913 the State Corporation Commission of Virginia placed control of the bank in the hands of receivers after determining that the bank was not fully observing the banking laws of the state. Generally, receivers are a neutral person appointed by the court to receive and preserve the property in litigation and to apply or dispose issues and profits at the direction of the court. James W. Gordon and John B. Lightfoot, Jr. were placed in charge of the bank's affairs and assets and were authorized to oversee the dissolution of the bank. The business of closing the Commonwealth Bank concluded in 1917.

From the guide to the Commonwealth Bank of Richmond Receivers' Cashbook, 1913-1917, (The Library of Virginia)

Chartered in July 1882, the Virginia Manufacturing and Trading Company was engaged in the manufacturing and selling of cigars and cigarettes in Petersburg and Richmond, Virginia. The company sold George Campbell and Company's tobacco, cigars, and cigarettes and John H. Bryant and Company's Virginia sumac and quercitron bark. Officers of the company included J. R. Stebbins, president; George Campbell, general manager; and R. Colston, secretary and treasurer. After incurring debt and facing legal proceedings, the company dissolved in March 1884.

From the guide to the Virginia Manufacturing and Trading Company Minute Book, 1882-1884, (The Library of Virginia)

The City of Richmond is located between Henrico and Chesterfield Counties. It was named by William Byrd II, who with the help of William Mayo laid out the town in 1737. The name probably came from the English borough of Richmond upon Thames. Richmond was established in 1742 and in 1779 was designated the capital of Virginia effective April 1780. Incorporated as a town in 1782 and incorporated as a city in 1842, it was the capital of the Confederate States of America from 1861 to 1865. Richmond was enlarged by several annexations, including Manchester/South Richmond (1910), Barton Heights, Fairmount, and Highland Park (1914). A further annexation form Chesterfield County occurred in 1970.

In 1785 the General Assembly passed an act authorizing the appointment of an escheator by the governor for each locality. An act was passed in December 1797 to permit escheators to sell land on credit if they thought it would enhance the price. The purchaser signed a deed of trust and a bond, copies of which were sent to the auditor of public accounts.

From the guide to the Richmond (Va.) Inquisitions of Escheat and Estrays, 1821-1868, (The Library of Virginia)

The Richmond Wood Ware Manufacturing Company were contractors and builders specializing in builders' supplies, woodware, and tin and metal ware for household goods. The company was founded in April 1894, but after being plagued by business and financial problems the company closed its doors in October 1894. Officers for the company included John T. Terrell, president; J. L. Dickinson, vice president; and C. W. Honegger, secretary and treasurer.

From the guide to the Richmond Wood Ware Manufacturing Company Business Records, 1894, (The Library of Virginia)

The body of Fannie Lillian Madison was found in Richmond's Old Reservoir on 14 March 1885. It was first believed Madison committed suicide, but evidence of a struggle suggested that she had been murdered. Madison's cousin Thomas J. Cluverius, a graduate of Richmond College and a lawyer in King and Queen and King William Counties, was indicted for her murder. Cluverius was convicted mostly on circumstantial evidence - the key piece of evidence being a watch key, supposedly belonging to Cluverius, which was found at the scene of the murder. The trial lasted from the 5 May to 4 June 1885, and Cluverius was hanged on 14 January 1887 despite several appeals.

From the guide to the Commonwealth of Virginia versus Thomas J. Cluverius, 1885, (The Library of Virginia)

This unidentified business operated in Richmond, Va., during the early twentieth century.

From the guide to the Unidentified Profit and Loss Ledger, 1911-1913, (The Library of Virginia)

Richmond, located between Henrico and Chesterfield Counties, was named by William Byrd II, who envisioned the development of a city at the falls of the James River and with the help of William Mayo laid out the town in 1737. It was incorporated as a city in 1842.

These records was replevined by the Library of Virginia following the trial entitled Commonwealth of Virginia vs. Larry I. Vass heard in Henrico County Circuit Court in November 1972.

From the guide to the Richmond (Va.) Court Records, 1805-1893, (The Library of Virginia)

Richmond, located between Henrico and Chesterfield Counties, was named by William Byrd II, who envisioned the development of a city at the falls of the James River and with the help of William Mayo laid out the town in 1737. It was incorporated as a town in 1782 and as a city in 1842.

From the guide to the Richmond (Va.) Tax Receipt, 1857, (The Library of Virginia)

This unidentified restaurant and ice cream parlor operated in Richmond, Va., during the early twentieth century.

From the guide to the Unidentified Restaurant and Ice Cream Parlor Daybook, 1911, (The Library of Virginia)

The City of Richmond is located between Henrico and Chesterfield Counties. It was named by William Byrd II, who with the help of William Mayo laid out the town in 1737. The name probably came from the English borough of Richmond upon Thames. Richmond was established in 1742 and in 1779 was designated the capitol of Virginia effective April 1780. Incorporated as a town in 1782 and incorporated as a city in 1842, it was the capital of the Confederate States of America from 1861 to 1865. Richmond was enlarged by several annexations, including Manchester/South Richmond (1910), Barton Heights, Fairmount, and Highland Park (1914). A further annexation form Chesterfield County occurred in 1970.

Manchester (extinct), in the city of Richmond, was established in 1769 on land owned by William Byrd (1728-1777) on the south bank of the James River. The General Assembly had authorized Fort Charles to be built there in 1645, and the site was soon named Rocky Ridge. After its establishment in 1769, the newly laid-out town was named probably for Manchester Parish in Chesterfield County. The parish in turn was named either for George Montague, fourth duke of Manchester, or for the town of Manchester, England. Incorporated as a town in 1834, Manchester served as the county seat for Chesterfield County from 1871 until 1874 when it was incorporated as a city (although Chesterfield did not move its courthouse until 1876). In 1910 Manchester was consolidated with the city of Richmond with the provisos that a free bridge would be constructed to connect Manchester with Richmond and that Manchester would retain a courthouse. Today the area is also known as South Richmond.

In 1780 the Virginia General Assembly replaced the Anglican vestries and churchwardens of the colonial period with elected bodies called Overseers of the Poor. The Overseers provided food, clothing, shelter, and medical treatment for the persons who were too poor to support themselves or too ill to provide for their basic needs. The cites had Almshouses to board invalids and paupers living in their cities. They also obtained employment for those who were able to work.

From the guide to the Richmond (Va.) Overseers of the Poor Records, 1870-1912, (The Library of Virginia)

Richmond, located between Henrico and Chesterfield Counties, was named by William Byrd II, who envisioned the development of a city at the falls of the James River and with the help of William Mayo laid out the town in 1737. Richmond was established in 1742 and in 1779 was designated the capital of Richmond effective April 1780. It was incorporated as a city in 1842. Richmond was enlarged by annexation of Manchester (or South Richmond) in 1910, and by the addition of Barton Heights, Fairmount, and Highland Park in 1914.

Grace Street Baptist Church was organized in 1833 as Third Baptist Church by members of Second Baptist Church. In 1845, the congregation moved to Foushee and Grace Streets and the name was changed to Grace Street Baptist Church. In 1923, the congregation moved to Grove Avenue and Boulevard, and the name was officially changed to Grace Baptist Church in 1925. Fires in 1896 and 1946 destroyed many church records.

From the guide to the Grace Street Baptist Church (Richmond, Va.) Board of Deacons Minutes, 1880-1910, (The Library of Virginia)

Turner Brooks and Company were tobacco merchants operating in Richmond, Va., during the mid-nineteenth century.

From the guide to the Turner Brooks and Company Account Book, 1869, (The Library of Virginia)

The city of Richmond, located between Henrico and Chesterfield Counties, was named by William Byrd (1674-1744), who envisioned the development of a city at the falls of the James River and with the help of William Mayo laid out the town in 1737. The name probably came from the English borough of Richmond upon Thames, which Byrd visited on several occasions. Richmond was established in 1742 and in 1779 was designated the capital of Virginia effective 30 April 1780. It was incorporated as a town, although "stiled the city of Richmond," in 1782 and was incorporated as a city in 1842. It served as the capital of the Confederacy from mid-1861 to April 1865. Richmond was enlarged by the annexation of Manchester (or South Richmond) in 1910, and by the addition of Barton Heights, Fairmount, and Highland Park in 1914. Further annexations from Chesterfield County occurred in 1942 and 1970.

The separate office of coroner appeared in Virginia about 1660. The judicial duty of the office is to hold inquisitions in cases when persons meet sudden, violent, unnatural or suspicious death, or death without medical attendance. The coroner would summon a jury to assist him in determining cause of death. Prior to November 1877, the jurors numbered twelve. Between November 1877 and March 1926, the jurors numbered six. The jury viewed the body of the deceased and heard the testimony of witnesses. The coroner was required to write down witness testimony. After seeing and hearing the evidence, the jury delivered in writing to the coroner their conclusion concerning cause of death referred to as the inquisition. After March 1926, only the coroner determined cause of death. He could require physicians to assist him with determing cause of death. If a criminal act was determined to be the cause of death, the coroner was to deliver the guilty person to the sheriff and the coroners' inquests would be used as evidence in the criminal trial.

From the guide to the Richmond (Va.) Coroners' Inquisitions, 1865, 1870-1886, (The Library of Virginia)

The city of Richmond, located between Henrico and Chesterfield Counties, was named by William Byrd (1674-1744), who envisioned the development of a city at the falls of the James River and with the help of William Mayo laid out the town in 1737. The name probably came from the English borough of Richmond upon Thames, which Byrd visited on several occasions. Richmond was established in 1742 and in 1779 was designated the capital of Virginia effective 30 April 1780. It was incorporated as a town, although "stiled the city of Richmond," in 1782 and was incorporated as a city in 1842. It served as the capital of the Confederacy from mid-1861 to April 1865. Richmond was enlarged by the annexation of Manchester (or South Richmond) in 1910, and by the addition of Barton Heights, Fairmount, and Highland Park in 1914. Further annexations from Chesterfield County occurred in 1942 and 1970.

From the guide to the Richmond (Va.) Ended Causes, 1860-1866, (Library of Virginia)

Richmond was established in 1742 and in 1779 was designated the capital of Virginia effective 30 April 1780. It was incorporated as a town, although "stiled the city of Richmond," in 1782 and was incorporated as a city in 1842. It served as the capital of the Confederacy from mid-1861 to April 1865. Richmond was enlarged by the annexation of Manchester (or South Richmond) in 1910, and by the addition of Barton Heights, Fairmount, and Highland Park in 1914. The city also annexed land from Henrico County in 1867, 1892 and 1941. A further annexation from Chesterfield County occurred in 1970. Richmond was named by William Byrd (1674-1744), who envisioned the development of a city at the falls of the James River and with the help of William Mayo laid out the town in 1737. The name probably came from the English borough of Richmond upon Thames, which Byrd visited on several occasions.

The sheriff was responsible for services rendered in the prosecution of court cases (law enforcement.) The sheriff also acted as a combination of both the commissioner of revenue and the county treasurer. He was appointed by the governor from a list of three names submitted by the county court. His term of office was for one year until 1731, after which it was two years. His two deputies, also know as sub (under) sheriffs did most of the work.

The original records, from which this volume was compiled, were created by the city's Hustings, Mayor's and Circuit Courts.

From the guide to the Richmond (Va.) Sheriff's Record Book, undated, 1856-1858, (The Library of Virginia)

The Virginia Protection Life Insurance Company operated in Richmond, Va., during the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. At some point in its history the company changed its name to the Virginia Protective Life Insurance Company.

From the guide to the Virginia Protection Life Insurance Company Journal A, 1874-1882, (The Library of Virginia)

Chancery Causes are cases of equity. According to Black's Law Dictionary they are "administered according to fairness as contrasted with the strictly formulated rules of common law." A judge, not a jury, determines the outcome of the case.

Richmond, located between Henrico and Chesterfield Counties, was named by William Byrd II, who envisioned the development of a city at the falls of the James River and with the help of William Mayo laid out the town in 1737. It was incorporated as a town in 1782 and as a city in 1842.

From the guide to the Richmond (Va.) Chancery Decree, 1863, (The Library of Virginia)

Manchester was established as a town by the General Assembly in November 1769. According to this act, "the honorable William Byrd hath lately laid out a parcel of his lands at Rocky Ridge, at the falls of the James River, in the county of Chesterfield, in lots and streets for a town." Directors and trustees were appointed and the town was named Manchester. The town was incorporated on February 27, 1834. On March 20, 1874, a city charter was approved by the General Assembly and the city was divided into 4 wards. Three members from each ward served on the City Council, the main governing body of the city along with the mayor. On April 15, 1910, the city of Manchester was officially annexed to the City of Richmond with the provisos that a free bridge would be constructed to connect Manchester with Richmond and that Manchester would retain a courthouse. Today the area is also known as South Richmond. The town of Manchester was named probably for Manchester Parish in Chesterfield County. The parish in turn was named either for George Montague, fourth duke of Manchester, or for the town of Manchester, England.

From the guide to the Manchester (Va.) Ordinances, 1874-1910, (The Library of Virginia)

The City of Richmond is located between Henrico and Chesterfield Counties. It was named by William Byrd II, who with the help of William Mayo laid out the town in 1737. The name probably came from the English borough of Richmond upon Thames. Richmond was established in 1742 and in 1779 was designated the capitol of Virginia effective April 1780. Incorporated as a town in 1782 and incorporated as a city in 1842, it was the capital of the Confederate States of America from 1861 to 1865. Richmond was enlarged by several annexations, including Manchester/South Richmond (1910), Barton Heights, Fairmount, and Highland Park (1914). A further annexation form Chesterfield County occurred in 1970.

These deeds from localities other than Richmond City for land located in Virginia and what is now West Virginia may have been recorded in Richmond as the result of population dislocation created by the Civil War.

From the guide to the Richmond (Va.) Deed Book, 1861-1865, (The Library of Virginia)

Manchester was established as a town by the General Assembly in November 1769. According to this act, "the honorable William Byrd hath lately laid out a parcel of his lands at Rocky Ridge, at the falls of the James River, in the county of Chesterfield, in lots and streets for a town." Directors and trustees were appointed and the town was named Manchester. The town was incorporated on February 27, 1834. On March 20, 1874, a city charter was approved by the General Assembly and the city was divided into 4 wards. Three members from each ward served on the City Council, the main governing body of the city along with the mayor. On April 15, 1910, the city of Manchester was officially annexed to the City of Richmond with the provisos that a free bridge would be constructed to connect Manchester with Richmond and that Manchester would retain a courthouse. Today the area is also known as South Richmond. The town of Manchester was named probably for Manchester Parish in Chesterfield County. The parish in turn was named either for George Montague, fourth duke of Manchester, or for the town of Manchester, England.

From the guide to the Manchester (Va.) Board of Alderman Minute Book, 1902-1910, (The Library of Virginia)

The Old Dominion Electrical Construction Company operated in Richmond, Va., during the 1890s. Maurice W. Thomas acted as the company's manager, and Maurice Hunter was its engineer. In early 1896 the company was placed under the control of receivers. Generally, receivers are neutral persons appointed by the court to receive and preserve the property in litigation and to apply or dispose issues and profits at the direction of the court.

From the guide to the Old Dominion Electrical Construction Company Ledger, 1895-1896, (The Library of Virginia)

Bowman and Stroock were wholesale jobbers of auction goods operating in New York and Richmond during the 1860s. By July 1868 the partnership was insolvent and involved in a Richmond Circuit Court suit against the Georgia Home Insurance Company, an assignee in Bowman and Stroock's bankruptcy.

From the guide to the Bowman and Stroock Receipt Books, 1865-1867, (The Library of Virginia)

The City of Richmond was named by William Byrd (1674-1744), who envisioned the development of a city at the falls of the James River and with the help of William Mayo laid out the town in 1737. The name probably came from the English borough of Richmond upon Thames, which Byrd visited on several occasions. Richmond was established in 1742 and in 1779 was designated the capital of Virginia effective 30 April 1780. It was incorporated as a town, although "stiled the city of Richmond," in 1782 and was incorporated as a city in 1842. It served as the capital of the Confederacy from mid-1861 to April 1865. Richmond was enlarged by the annexation of Manchester (or South Richmond) in 1910, and by the addition of Barton Heights, Fairmount, and Highland Park in 1914. Further annexations from Chesterfield County occurred in 1942 and 1970.

Manchester was established in 1769 on land owned by William Byrd (1728-1777) on the south bank of the James River. The General Assembly had authorized Fort Charles to be built there in 1645, and the site was soon named Rocky Ridge. After its establishment in 1769, the newly laid-out town was named probably for Manchester Parish in Chesterfield County. The parish in turn was named either for George Montague, fourth duke of Manchester, or for the town of Manchester, England. Incorporated as a town in 1834, Manchester served as the county seat for Chesterfield County from 1871 until 1874 when it was incorporated as a city (although Chesterfield did not move its courthouse until 1876). In 1910 Manchester was consolidated with the city of Richmond with the provisos that a free bridge would be constructed to connect Manchester with Richmond and that Manchester would retain a courthouse. Today the area is also known as South Richmond.

From the guide to the Manchester (Va.) Regular Relief Roll of the Police Officers, 1877-1878, (The Library of Virginia)

Richmond was established in 1742 and in 1779 was designated the capital of Virginia effective 30 April 1780. It was incorporated as a town, although "stiled the city of Richmond", in 1782 and was incorporated as a city in 1842. It served as the capital of the Confederacy from mid-1861 to April 1865. Richmond was enlarged by the annexation of Manchester (or South Richmond) in 1910, and by the addition of Barton Heights, Fairmount and Highland Park in 1914. The city also annexed land from Henrico County in 1867, 1892 and 1941. A further annexation from Chesterfied County occured in 1970. Richmond was named by William Byrd (1674-1744), who envisioned the development of a city at the falls of the James River and with the help of William Mayo laid out the town in 1737. The name probably came from the English borough of Richmond upon Thames, which Byrd visited on several occasions.

In the Circuit Court of the City of Richmond on April 2, 1900 in accordance with the duty devolved upon the court by Acts of Assembly approved on March 7, 1900, the Confederate Pension Board was established. "Five citizens, residents of the county or city, three of whom shall be ex-Confederate soldiers, shall be appointed by the judge of the circuit court of such county or city of this state. The board then elects its own chairman and clerk."

From the guide to the Richmond (Va.) Confederate Pension Board Minute Book, 1900-1926, (The Library of Virginia)

The City of Richmond is located between Henrico and Chesterfield Counties. It was named by William Byrd II, who with the help of William Mayo laid out the town in 1737. The name probably came from the English borough of Richmond upon Thames. Richmond was established in 1742 and in 1779 was designated the capitol of Virginia effective April 1780. Incorporated as a town in 1782 and incorporated as a city in 1842, it was the capital of the Confederate States of America from 1861 to 1865. Richmond was enlarged by several annexations, including Manchester/South Richmond (1910), Barton Heights, Fairmount, and Highland Park (1914), and a further annexation from Chesterfield County (1970).

From the guide to the Richmond (Va.) List of the taxable town lots, 1840 circa, (The Library of Virginia)

This unidentified business operated in Richmond, Va., during the mid-nineteenth century.

From the guide to the Unidentified Checkbook, 1865-1866, (The Library of Virginia)