Hi Carnes researchers and especially, Carolyn Cooksey Maxey:
I am a descendent of Richard Carnes b 1774, allegedly in NJ, and living in
Franklin Co GA from 1800 until his death (Date uncertain). I am all but
certain that Richard was a brother to Carolyn's Wells G. Carnes (I have him
born 1772 per LDS site, certainly not for sure though), along with a
Holloway Carnes and perhaps a John Carnes.
I believe this because Richard, Wells, Holloway, and John were all in
Franklin Co in the early 1800's; lived near each other; had land dealings
among them; and most importantly, my Richard named his two eldest sons,
Wells and Holloway, I feel after his brothers. His son, Wells, then named
his son, Wilbern Wells Carnes (my great grandfather).
As mentioned earlier, all censuses report Richard to have been born in NJ,
but a 1907 letter of his grandson's, Wilbern Wells, alleges Richard to have
been born in NC. I suspect that Richard was born in NJ, as he reported in
censuses, but came to GA through NC. The family always believed and told
of Richard being 1/2 Indian - this has never been proven but was family
story of many generations.
I know nothing more of Richard or his parentage, but we should stay in
touch because I believe we are looking for the same folks. I have much
information re descendents of Richard Carnes, b 1774, if anyone has interest.
Paulette Willis Dunn
Douglasville, GA