One of the most commonly punished crimes, many men were accused, tried and fined for having sex outside marriage vows, while women were accused of giving birth to base-born children.  Prosecution occurred against both the highest to the lowest of citizens.

May Session 1802, Page 217

 

Samuel Carter for fornication with Margaret Granger and having by said Margaret three base born children by the information of Ebenezer Morse planter of the parish of Cople and County of Westmoreland.  Thomas Lendrum, Foreman

May Session 1802, Page 230

 

The Commonwealth. . .            Plaintiff

Vs.                                                                    For Bastardy

John Henry Doleman. . .          Defendant

 

The Defendant being called came into court and entered his appearance in discharge of his Recognizance and by Consent of the parties the case is continued until the next court.

July Session 1802, page 275

 

Margaret Granger. . .            Plaintiff

Vs.                                                                    Tresspass and Assault and Battery (Con’t)

Ebenezer Morse. . .          Defendant

 

Samuel Carter. . .            Plaintiff

Vs.                                                                    Tresspass (Con’t)

Ebenezer Morse. . .          Defendant

 

July Session 1802, page 334

 

Margaret Granger & Saml Carter. . .  Plaintiff

Vs.                                                                    Slander (Con’t)

Ebenezer Morse. . .          Defendant

 

October Term 1808, page 217

 

Ebenezer Morse. . .            Plaintiff

Vs.                                                                    In Case

Saml Carter. . .          Defendant

 

This suit abates by the death of the Defendant.