The Research Like a Pro Genealogy Podcast

RLP 365: Thomas B Royston's Land and Headstone in Chambers County, Alabama

8 snips
Jul 7, 2025
Diana shares her intriguing visit to her third great-grandfather's grave in Alabama, sparking a conversation about his life and land ownership. They explore historical documents, including censuses and wills, revealing the Royston family's expansion and challenges, including the presence of enslaved individuals. The discussion also highlights Thomas B. Royston's Masonic affiliations, underscoring their significance in understanding social status. Plus, tips on using modern tools for genealogy research add a fresh twist to ancestry exploration.
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ANECDOTE

Diana's Hands-On Alabama Visit

  • Diana Elder visited Chambers County, Alabama, seeing Thomas B. Royston's burial site and his land plots firsthand.
  • She used graph paper to map his land purchases, gaining new insights on his settlement and property layout.
INSIGHT

Confirming Thomas B. Royston's Identity

  • The 1840 census listed "F.B. Royston", but land grant documents confirmed this was actually Thomas B. Royston.
  • He benefited from federal land policies opening Cherokee and Creek lands in Alabama for settlement.
INSIGHT

Royston's Land Acquisition Shift

  • Thomas B. Royston moved from DeKalb to Chambers County by 1842, evidenced by tax records.
  • He purchased land there instead of claiming federal patents, growing his estate to significant value by 1850.
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