Col. William Byrd I (1652-1704)
"The Black Swan of Westover" Virginia
He was born in London and came to Virginia in 1677 when he took possession of the estate of his late uncle, Thomas Stegge. He lived at "Belvidere" in Hanover County before acquiring Westover on the James River. He took an active role in public affairs and was an influential Member of the King's Council. He married Maria, daughter of Col. Warham Horsmanden, of Charles City Co., Virginia who later returned to England and lived at Parleigh in Essex. They were the parents of five children (listed).
