While doing some research on the land of Thomas Kirby, b.abt. 1800, I have come across some data which would seem to eliminate William Carroll Kirby, b.abt 1817, as his son.
However, William Carroll did marry into Thomas's family. After first wife Martha Gentry died, he remarried to Elizabeth. This Elizabeth was Elizabeth Ann "Betsy" Kirby (24 Mar 1842-1 Nov 1923), daughter of Thomas.
In an 1875 deed between Thomas and Elizabeth, she is referred to as Thomas's daughter and Carroll Kirby's wife. Her death certificate lists her as the daughter of Thomas Kirby, says she is a widow, and gives the above dates for birth and death. Ollie Kirby of Pine Hill provided the death certificate information.
I do believe William Carroll and Thomas are related in some way; perhaps WC was Thomas's nephew or cousin.
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