An American Family History

William Bowles (Boells, Bowls, Bouls) was born in England and was the son of Edward and Isabell Bowles. He was John Bowles nephew.

William came to Charles County, Maryland with his family in 1650. They also came with an indentured servant, John Norman. On August 30, 1650 Edward "demanded" 500 acres for himself, his wife and his children, William and Joane Bowles and for John Norman his servant. He received a warrant for 400 acres on the Potomac River.

John Norman later sued for corn and clothes, but was only allowed the 50 acres promised in his indenture.

In 1657 William Marshall testified that he was at the Bowles' plantation when Robert Robins accused William Heard of an illicit sexual relationship.

William inherited his father's entire estate including Bowles (Bowlesley). It was a plantation of 200 acres on the Potomac River near Piccowaxen Creek. When his father died in 1659, John Douglas, was a witness to the will. He married Sarah Bonner.

William and Sarah did not have children.

In 1661 William Knags sued William for his wages of 250 pounds of tobacco.

On September 6, 1662 William Bowles entered his mark for hogs and cattle.

He died about 1662 or 1663 and was probably not yet 30 years old.

In 1662/63 William died. Sarah inherited Bowles and half his estate. She was the executrix of the estate. His estate was appraised at 17,850 pounds of tobacco.

In 1663 his estate was sued by Hugh O'Neale for his wife's care during his final illness.

Bowles Plantation (Bowls, Bowlesley) was a plantation on the Potomac River near Pickawaxon Creek in Charles County, Maryland. Sarah Bonner inherited it from William Bowles who had inherited it from his father Edward Bowles. Sarah left it to her son, Joseph Douglas.

Old Style Calendar Before 1752 the year began on Lady Day, March 25th,. Dates between January 1st and March 24th were at the end of the year. Old Style (O.S.) and New Style (N.S.) are used to indicate whether the year has been adjusted. Often both dates are used.