Hemphill is one of the most common surnames in my database, as I descend through several lines. I’ve put together a list of the resources I have found most helpful in researching this surname. My Hemphills settled in North Carolina and then came to Georgia, so the bulk of my research (so far) is confined to those regions.
Hemphills in North Carolina – this is the single most important and informative source I’ve used. It was published in 1981 and unfortunately is no longer in print; however, there are a few copies available in libraries.
U. S. Federal Census records (of course!)
North Carolina State Archives MARS Catalog – I’ve found Hemphill records for land grants and purchases, wills, and military service.
Murray County Heritage – a good source for information regarding the Hemphills who came to Murray County, Georgia. Available for purchase and in libraries.
Murray County Probate Court – another good source for information regarding Murray County Hemphills.
Marty and Karla Grant website – this site has vast information on many surnames, some of which have Hemphill marriage connections.
North Carolina Marriage Collection – available on Ancestry.com
Hemphill Surname Message board at Ancestry.
Hemphill Family Genealogy Forum.
U.S. World War II Army Enlistment Records – available at Ancestry and through NARA. In addition to basic military information, these records contain residence at time of enlistment, education, occupation, and physical description of the person enlisting.
Revolutionary War Soldiers of Western North Carolina, Volume 1 – has information on Thomas Hemphill and Thomas Lytle. Available at numerous libraries.
The Mackeys and Allied Families – a huge book, with good information on Hemphill spouses. Available at libraries.
