Madison
County Will Book B
Part Two: Pages 201-482
Page 201 ~ Jonathon Cooper
14 Aug
1863
Being about to enter the service of my country
My beloved wife Nancy
E. Cooper to have my entire estate during her natural life or widowhood, and that
she have full power to sell or change my estate any portion of my estate as she
may think best for herself and my children. My wife to give to my children as they
become of age or marry any property that she is willing to spare. All the property
given off by her to any of my children, to wit, Henry M. Cooper, Matilda F. Cooper,
Nancy A. E. Cooper, William B. Cooper, Eliza J. Cooper, and John S. Cooper, together
with such child or children as may hereafter be born, to be valued by three disinterested
men. Should my wife marry, then she is to have only a childs share of my estate.
My negroes to be divided without sale if it can be done. Signed: Jonathon Cooper.
Witness: John B. Moon, W. D. Gholston, Richd B. Gholston. Recd 15 Jan 1865.
Page 202 ~ Benjamin Brown
24 Jan 1865
To my beloved wife
Catherine all the interest I have in the negroes she had and brought with her at
the time of our marriage and their increase to dispose of at hear pleasure. To my
wife for and during her natural life only a tract of land whereon Benjamin F. Mercer
now lives to include 100 acres, also one black mule named Beck, one sow & pigs,
one cow & calf, one bed & furniture of her own choice, 20 bushels of corn,
5 bushels of wheat, and 300 pounds of pork; all of the above property to be sold
at the death of my wife and equally divided among my heirs hereinafter named. All
my negroes to be appraised and equally divided between my heirs (to wit) Avaline
Sorrells, Sarah Nunn and the heirs of Robert G. Brown, Neoma A. McGinnis, Destimonia
Williams, Elizabeth Strickland, Milita J. Strickland, Zemily Payne, and Susan Mercier.
The land where I now live to be sold with the following exception, one half acre
of land including the grove in center of said half acre; my executor will sell said
lot so that my heirs which have no land may have a chance to buy. Executors: my
friends and sons in law Joseph Williams, David Payne, James Nunn, Matthew Strickland.
Signed: Benjamin (x) Brown. Witness: John A. Burroughs, Edward G. Riley, Elbu Collins.
Recd 10 Feb 1865.
Page 204 ~ Oliver P. Griffith
19 Oct 1863
Fulton County,
Georgia: I, Oliver P. Griffith of the county of Madison
all my property
to my wife and children, the property to be kept together and managed by my wife
for the common benefit of herself and my children, and when any child marries or
comes of age, such child is to receive an equal share of the property. In the event
of my wifes marrying again, there shall be an immediate division of the property
between her and such of my children as shall not have received their shares, and
my wifes share shall be hers during her natural life and at her death to be
equally divided between my children. If she does not marry, her share of my property
is to be hers absolutely. Executrix: My wife Margarett Griffeth. Signed: Oliver
P. Griffith. Witness: Wm. Scott, Charles S. Sorrells, Jas. W. Daniel. Recd
10 Feb 1865.
Page 205 ~ Joel Echols
15 Feb 1864
To my wife Martha
H. Echols, the tract of land on which I now live with all the stock of all kinds
and household furniture of all description for and during her natural life. My daughter
to have what articles of wearing apparel and bed, bedding and such things as she
now claims, now in my possession. At the death of my wife, what property is left
be sold and divided equally, giving to my daughter Elizabeth C. Echols one half
and the other to be equally divided between my four grandchildren, James R., John
C., William J. and Martha C. Echols, children of my deceased son Seaborn F. Eckles.
Executors: My wife Martha H. Echols and my worthy friend Robert K. Caruth. Signed:
Joel Echols. Witness: W. N. McCurdy, G. N. Bond, J. M. Skinner. Recd 10 Apr
1865.
Page 207 ~ John R. Beard
30 Aug 1862
Being yet young
but having to go to the war that now exists between the Southern Confederacy and
the Federal Government
declare this my last will and testament. After my death
my wife Sarah E. and the child that she is now bearing, not yet born, provided it
should be born alive, shall have all the land I now own jointly until said child
becomes of age or marries. In the event my wife should marry before said child should
marry of become of age, in that event my wife shall not have any interest in the
land but to have $100 of my personal estate. But in the event she does not marry,
she is to have one half of all my estate. In the event said child not be born alive,
my wife shall have one half of my estate and the other half to be equally divided
between my brother William W. Beard and my four sisters, Prudence Deen, Catherine
Powell, Amanda Sartain and Martha A. Sertain. Executor: my father Samuel F. Beard.
Signed: John R. Beard. Witness: Martha Nash, Mary Nash, Gabriel Nash. Recd
9 Dec 1865.
Page 209 ~ Eli Wood
17 Sept 1865
To my wife Mary Wood,
my land whereon I now live containing about 150 acres during her natural life or
widowhood. At the death or marriage of my wife, my two youngest daughters, Mary
and Indianna Wood, to have all my land. I also give my wife one cow & calf.
To my daughter Mary Wood, one grey mare and cow & calf. To my daughter Indianna
Wood, one bay mare and one cow & calf. To my said two daughters, Mary and Indianna
Wood, my yoke of oxen and my flock of sheep. To my son John N. Wood, all of my Carpenters
tools. The remainder of my property (except my household) to my daughters Mary and
Indianna, the household to be divided among my family. My desire is that my executors
not be required to make inventory and return on my estate. Executrix: my wife Mary
Wood. Signed: Eli (x) Wood. Witness: R. M. Mirony, J. L. Bond, Joel T. Miller. Recd
9 Dec 1865.
Page 211 ~ Robert W. Pruitt
4 Nov 1865
I have no children
now in life, but have one grandchild, Robert Pruitt Blackwell, the son of my deceased
daughter Zibiah, former wife of Thomas P. Blackwell. I therefore give and bequeath
to my grandson Robert Pruitt Blackwell all my estate both real and personal in this
state or elsewhere to take effect at my death. In the event my said grandchild dies
before he arrives at 21 year of age, and without any lawful children, then George
Washington Pruitt, son of my nephew Joseph Jackson Pruitt, to have all my estate.
Executors: My friends John N. Montgomery and Rufus M. Mironey. Signed: R. W. Pruitt.
Witness: W. P. Alexander, Wm. Montgomery. Recd 15 Jan 1866
Page 212 ~ David Evans
17 Dec 1863
To my son Henry T.
Evans, the tract of land on which I now live containing 184 acres (provided he shall
give me and my wife Polly Evans a home and comfortable support as long as we or
either of us do live). To my wife Polly Evans, for the love and affection I have
for her, all my household & kitchen furniture including beds & bed clothing,
cooking utensils, etc. I also give to my son Henry T. Evans all my farming utensils,
all my stock of cattle and hogs. My daughter-in-law Susan Evans to have the use
of the house she now lives in together with 5 acres of land around said house as
long as she may wish. My son William S. Evans to have the privilege of getting firewood
of my said tract of land as long as he may need it. Executor: My son Henry T. Evans.
Witness: William R. Russel, Stephen C. Groves, Robert Henderson, J.P. Recd
13 Apr 1866.
Page 214 ~ George N. Russell
27 Jul 1864
To my brother
Robert S. Russel and my five sisters, Margaret E. Russel, Mary Ann Russel, Nancy
Hannah Russel, Sarah S. Russel and Elizabeth T. Russel, all my estate to be equally
divided among them. Executor: George Russel. Signed: George N. Russel. Witness:
George N. Russel, Martin Nash, Stephen Bond. Recd 19 Jun 1866.
Page 215 ~ Larkin G. Hardman
2 Apr 1866
To my beloved
wife Martha with whom I have lived for thirty years, all of my estate both real
and personal. At her death, all of my children to have a good horse a piece or the
worth of a horse in something else (viz) George Lumpkin, Samuel Lumpkin, Louisa
Jane, Joseph Henry, Lucy Ann and Pope Hardman. Those six children has never had
no horse and I desire that these six children above named have a horse a piece,
and I desire that Martha Ann Hardman, my granddaughter, have an equal share with
the balance of my own children. All my children to have an equal share if there
be any more left I desire it be sold and equally divided among all of my children
and my granddaughter also, viz, Martha Ann, my son Hilkiah T. Hardmans daughter.
Executors: my wife Martha and my son Hilkiah T. Hardman. Signed: Larkin G. Hardaman.
Witness: Alfred Segraves, Z. J. Hardaman, William Sailors, Mary A. Segraves. Recd
19 Jun 1866.
Page 217 ~ James Pinson
23 Dec 1857
My beloved wife Edney
shall have all of my estate both real and personal during her natural life or widowhood;
in the event she should marry, my estate to be equally divided among my wife Edney
Pinson and eight children, to wit, Jesey Pinson, Mary Tuck, formerly Mary Pinson,
William Pinson, Robert Pinson, Jane Pinson, Sarah Pinson, Susan Pinson and Elizabeth
Pinson. I have given off to my four oldest children, to wit, Jessey Pinson, Mary
Tuck, William Pinson and Robert Pinson, property to the amount of $80 a piece, and
I wish my wife to give off to my other four children, to wit, Jane Pinson, Sarah
Pinson, Susan Pinson and Elizabeth Pinson an equal amount of property as they marry
or become of age. At my wifes death, my estate to be equally divided among
my children, taking into consideration what each one has had. Executors: my wife
Edney Pinson and my son William Pinson. Signed: James Pinson. Witness: Josiah Cheatham,
Jr., Charley B. Sims, John I. Cheatham. Recd 25 Sept 1866.
Page 219 ~ John Simmons
15 Dec 1866
My estate to remain
in the hands of my beloved wife Milley W. Simmons during her natural life. My two
single daughters, to wit, Sidney C. Simmons and Milley J. Simmons, to be made equal
with my other daughters who are married off when they marry or at the death of my
wife. At the death of my wife, all my estate should be divided equally between my
4 children, to wit, Sidney C. Simmons, Mary R. Brown, Sarah E. Dudley and Milley
J. Simmons. Executor: Isaac V. Moore. Signed: John (x) Simmons. Witness: James G.
Eberhart, Joseph A. Gloer, Daniel Wynn, J. P. Recd 12 Jan 1867.
Page 220 ~ Ebenezer S. Crawford
12 Nov 1866
I desire
that J. B. Crawford have entire control as executor of my estate. The household
and kitchen furniture to be reserved for the use of the family, also one buggy &
mare, cow & calf, one sow and as many stock hogs as my executor may think best,
it being my desire that my executor sell the place whereon I now live and buy another
place at such time as he may think best, and if my wife should marry again, the
whole of my estate both real and personal to be sold and equally divided between
my wife and my three children, viz, Thomas B. Crawford, Mary E. Crawford, Ebenezer
S. Crawford. Also my son John B. Crawford to have five dollars in cash and my wife
Nancy Ann Crawford have our bed quilts and one work box extra of all other things.
Executor: J. B. Crawford. Signed: Ebenezer S. Crawford. Witness: Z. F. Stephens,
M. C. Crawford, P. R. Bell. Recd 12 Jan 1867
Page 222 ~ Mary Bridges
27 Nov 1850
Having no legal bodily
heirs, I will and bequeath unto Ora Akins, a young lady that I raised from her infancy,
all my estate both real and personal (to wit), all my stock of horses, hogs, sheep
and cattle, all my ready money and notes and other papers of value, all my household
and kitchen furniture and farming tools of every description, oxen and cart, also
my Negro man Claiborn and every other thing of value. But it being my will that
said Negro Claiborn, as he has been a good and faithful servant, shall be well treated
and taken care of. Executrix: Ora Akins. Signed: Mary (x) Bridges. Witness: James
Cunningham, Ranford E. Hitchcock, Bennet Sims. Recd: 4 Jun 1867.
Page 224 ~ Martin Deadwyler
23 Dec 1866
My will is at &
after my death, my remains be buried as near the grave of my son Martin V. as is
convenient & both my grave and my son Martin V.s grave be closed with
a stone foundation with suitable palings. To my wife Lucy, the land & dwelling
I now live on, including all my land except the tract that John R. Stovall lives
on containing 180 acres; the Caruth tract 380 acres, all the land on the south side
of the South river, the tract adjoining G. Nash and John Bray 187 acres, during
the life of my said wife Lucy and at her death the land I will her be sold and divided
as hereinafter directed. Also to my wife Lucy my horse, saddle & bridle, buggy &
harness, four cows & calves of her choice, all the stock hogs, two beds, beadsteads &
furniture of her choice, twelve sitting chairs, three tables, 3 chests, one spinning
wheel, one loom, one bureau, one sideboard, one half of the cooking utensils, one
half of the farming tools, one half of the crockery ware, one years provision;
all this, except the land, my wife shall have to do as she pleases with. My daughter
Letty E. Payne to have two cows & calves and $50 worth of provision above, an
equal share. At my death, my executors to sell the tract of land on which John R.
Stovall lives containing 180 acres, the Caruth tract containing 380 acres, all my
land on the south side of the south river, the tract adjoining G. Nash & John
Bray, and all my other property not willed to my wife and daughter Letty, the proceeds
of the sale to be equally divided between my children (to wit) My daughter Susan
M. Webb, my daughter Ann B. Webb, my son Joseph P., my son Philip W., my son Milton
P. Deadwyler, my daughter Rebecca S. Marks, my son Valentine H. Deadwyler, my daughter
Letty E. Payne, my granddaughter Lucy H. Willhite, and my granddaughter Sarah R.
Willhite. The property willed to my daughter Letty E. Payne shall be given to my
son Valentine H. Deadwyler in trust for my said daughter Letty E. Payne, free from
the control of her present husband Frances Payne. Executors: my sons Joseph P. and
Valentine H. Deadwyler. Signed: Martin (x) Deadwyler. Witness: H. T. Sanders, J.
R. Stovall, William (x) Carrington, Gabriel Nash. Recd 8 Oct 1867.
Page 228 ~ Richardson Hancock
29 Oct 1869
All my property
to my beloved wife, except as hereinafter provided. At the death of my wife Ella
R. Hancock, all my property to go to my child or children by my present wife Ella
R. Hancock. In the event of my child or children dying before the death of my wife,
all my property to be equally divided between all of my brothers children
at the death of my wife. To my son John W. Hancock three cover lids as he may select
or quilts and one folding table. Executors: my wife Ella R. Hancock and my friend
Augustus C. Neal. Signed: Richardson Hancock. Witness: H. T. Sanders, Robt. Yerby,
G. C. Daniel, J. M. Skinner. Recd 10 Sept 1868.
Page 230 ~ Robert Henderson
13 Jun 1868
To my beloved
wife Mary Ann Henderson one half of the tract of land on which I now live containing
220 acres and adjoining Paoli, one half of my house and lot in Paoli containing
1 1/2 acres, one half of all my personal estate (except as hereinafter excepted),
including one half of my stock, household & kitchen furniture, plantation tools,
waggons, carriage, money, notes & accounts debts, except one note of hand given
by James S. Cunningham for $200 dated Apr 28, 1868 and due on demand, which said
note I give to my daughter Elizabeth Cunningham, also one note of hand given by
James Richardson payable to Robert Henderson for $200 dated January 1868 due on
demand, which I give to my son James Eliab Henderson, also one note of hand given
by Neal Johnson and William Bowers (security) for $100 with a credit March 20, 1861
for $20 dated Jan 27, 1859 and due one day after date, which note I give to my daughter
Martha Duncan (provided said note is not collected before), if it is collected,
then that much money instead of the note. The other half of my estate I give to
my son William Marion Henderson (that is to say) to my wife Mary Ann and my son
William Marion Henderson I give all of my estate during their natural lives. At
the death of my wife, one half of what she may have be equally divided between my
oldest children, Elizabeth Cunningham, James Eliab Henderson, and Martha Duncan,
the other half to be disposed of as she desires. So also of what my son William
Marion receives of my estate and has at the time of his death, I desire it be divided
as aforesaid, that is, one half to be equally divided between my three oldest children,
and the other half to be disposed of as he desires. Executors: My wife, and my son
William Marion Henderson. Signed: Robert Henderson. Witness: John McCurdy, Willis
J. Dudley, James A. Pearce. Recd 6 Jul 1868
Page 234 ~ William Sailors
22 Aug 1868
To my beloved
wife Elizabeth B. Sailors all my effects both real and personal, except one bed &
bedstead and chest, one sheet, one counterpane and three quilts. To my daughter
Minerva Sailors one bed & bedstead one sheet and one counterpane and three quilts
and one bedskirt and one chest. At the death of my wife, my land to be sold and
equally divided among my seven children, viz, James M. Sailors, William J. Sailors,
David F. Sailors, Margaret now Margaret Wright, Minerva Elizabeth Sailors
now Elizabeth Williams, Rachel Ann Sailors now Rachel Ann Floyd, Crawford Sailors.
Executrix: my wife Elizabeth B. Sailors. Signed: William (x) Sailors. Witness: Alfred
Segraves, Mary A. Segraves, J. G. Segraves, P. C. Williams. Recd 3 Dec 1868
Page 236 ~ Spillsby Trible
9 Aug 1860
All my estate both
real and personal to be sold, except my household & kitchen furniture, two cows
and calves. To my daughter Alavine A. Trible one featherbed & furniture, one
cow & calf whenever she may marry but not until then, and the money raised from
the sale of my estate to be loaned out yearly and disposed of in the follow manner:
to my wife Martha Tible the yearly interest of the money raised from the above named
property during her natural life or widowhood. If she marries, she shall have one
featherbed and furniture, one cow & calf only for part of my estate. To my daughter
Alavine A. Trible $5 in money after my death. To my daughter Alavine, the interest
of the money raised from the sale of my estate yearly during her natural life only
and then I will and bequeath both principal and interest of my estate to James Cicero
Trible, her son now about seven years old but unnamed as yet only by me, and her
lawful heirs if she should have any of her own body. Executor: James S. Tribble.
Signed: Spillsby Tribble. Witness: Jeptha B. Meadors, Sherman J. Sims, R. H. Bullock.
Recd: 18 Jul 1868
Page 239 ~ Chapman Windham
May 186-
To my stepdaughter
Elizabeth Mercer my land, a part of the tract whereon she now lives, 25 acres, to
do as she pleases with. To my daughter Aisly Carter my bed and bedstead, bed clothing,
and two pots, wash pot and dinner fork. To Mary Elizabeth Mercer one speckled cow
and calf. Executrix: my stepdaughter Elizabeth Mercer. Signed: Chapman (x) Windham.
Witness: James H. Bullock, William Kirk, Alisha (x) Herring. Recd 10 Feb 1870
Page 239 ~ Peter David
23 Aug 1867
To my son John M.
David, one third of a tract of land known as the Moon tract, also an equal distributive
share of my estate after certain grandchildren have been paid off. To my daughter
Sarah Ann Eades, an equal distributive share of my estate after certain grandchildren
have been paid off. To the children of my son William W. David, deceased, an equal
distributive share of my estate after certain grandchildren receive the specified
amount hereinafter bequeathed to them. To the children of my daughter Rachael C.
Vaughn, deceased, an equal share of my estate after certain grandchildren have been
paid off. To the children of my daughter Mary W. Meadows, deceased, an equal distributive
share of my estate extra to what I have heretofore given Mary J. Matthews and Elizabeth
Meadows, my grandchildren, after the hereinafter specified amounts have been received
by my grandchildren. To the children of my daughter Elizabeth E. Vaughn, an equal
distributive share of my estate. To the children of my son James M. David, $100
in gold when he becomes of age, to be taken out of my estate before an equal division
takes place. To the children of my son Henry H. David, viz, Henry C. David be paid
$5, Georgia Ann V. Power $5, John M. David $50, and Mary E. Hendon $50, to be paid
out of my estate before an equal division takes place. Executors: my son John M.
David and Rainy Eades. Signed: Peter (x) David. Witness: Ambrose Witcher, W. H.
Jarrell, Gabriel Watson, W. W. Everett. Recd 8 Jul 1870.
Page 242 ~ John Hopkins
27 Apr 1868
It is my will that
after my death
a marble monument be erected over my grave and enclosed with
good and substantial iron railing. To my sister Martha White, the whole of my estate
both real and personal including everything I own and possess, this will to take
place immediately after my death. Executrix: my sister Martha White. Signed: John
(x) Hopkins. Witness: Robert P. Griffith, Benet Simmons, R. M. Mironey, Moraset(?)
David. No recording date.
Page 244 ~ Birdy Williams
17 Dec 1870
To my beloved wife
Nancy with whom I have lived for 62 years, the lot of land whereon we now reside
containing 250 acres, all the stock belonging on said plantation, all the household
and kitchen furniture during her natural life or widowhood, and after her death
or intermarriage I want all my estate both real and personal sold and an equal division
made with the heirs of my body. To my daughter Anna J. Baxter, a cow by the name
of Sleet and a featherbed, pillows and bolster such as my beloved wife shall point
out. Executor: my son James C. Williams. Signed: Birdy (x) Williams. Witness: Henry
Smith, William A. Tolbert. Recd 7 Jan 1872
Page 246 ~ Peter B. Winfrey
3 Mar 1870
To my beloved
wife Milly, all my property both real and personal for her own proper use and benefit
during her natural lifetime or widowhood. At her death or marriage I want all my
property sold and divided among my children hereinafter named, and if Milly marries,
she to draw a childs part, same as my children, to wit, John R. Winfrey, George
W. Winfrey, Martha E. Cunningham, Mary F. Patterson, Judith H. Kirk, Nicy A. Wade.
Executors: my two sons John R. Winfrey and George W. Winfrey, and my son in law
James W. Kirk. Signed: Peter B. Winfrey. Witness: John C. Kirk, Wm. L. Kirk, John
F. Kirk. Recd 10 May 1872.
Page 248 ~ David P. Freeman
31 Dec 1866
During the widowhood
of my wife, Elizabeth Freeman, I direct that my family and the bulk of my property
be kept together for the maintenance and education of the children until my youngest
child becomes 21. I have given to my son Walton Freeman one horse, bridle and saddle,
one cow & calf, one sow & pigs, one bed & bedding, one colt, one plowstock,
one plow and plow gear, and one years provision, and I direct that each of
my children, as they become 21 or marry, receive from my estate an equal portion
with my son Walton Freeman. If my wife marries again or my youngest child becomes
21 years old, my estate both real and personal be sold and the proceeds be equally
divided between all of my children and my wife Elizabeth Freeman. The provision
made above for my wife is intended to be in lieu of all dower, but if she should
continue for her right of dower, then she to receive only her dower, one bed, bedstead
and bedding, one cow & calf, one sow & pigs, and one years provision
for herself alone. If my wife should marry before my youngest child becomes 21,
my executors to use their discretion as to whether to sell out and ---- up my estate,
or keep my minor children and my property together for the support of the family
until all my children have been reared and educated. But if circumstances permit,
I would prefer the latter. If my wife should wish to keep her children by her former
husband with her, I wish her to have the liberty to do so provided their board be
paid and that they do not mistreat or abuse any of my children, but if they should
abuse any of my children, then I direct that they be removed out of the family forthwith.
If my family should wish to move to a new county before my youngest child is 21
years old, my executors may sell out my property and invest the proceeds in land
or other property for the good of the family. Executors: my pastor Rev. Groves H.
Cartledge, and my son Zachary Taylor Freeman. Signed: David P. Freeman. Witness:
W. P. Alexander, Francis Sewell, E. P. David, Samuel M. White. Recd 6 Sept
1872
Page 251 ~ Henry Patterson
22 Feb 1870
To my beloved
wife Elizabeth all that I possess to have and use for her maintenance and to dispose
of as she pleases, free from the control of any person or persons whatever except
herself. Executors: my two sons William H. Patterson and John R. Patterson. Signed:
Henry (x) Patterson. Witness: John F. Kirk, John C. Kirk, Jas. W. Kirk. Recd
10 Jan 1873
Page 253 ~ Aaron Smith
31 Mar 1873
To my beloved wife
during her natural life, all my entire estate both real and personal, lands and
tenements, stock of all kinds, household and kitchen furniture for her own proper
use and benefit so long as she may live. At the death of my beloved wife, whatever
is left of my estate be divided between my daughter Celia Ginn, formerly Celia Smith,
and Louisa J. Duncan, formerly Louisa J. Smith, and my three grandchildren, to wit,
Henry S. McDuff, Narcissa J. Strickland [Strickland crossed out] formerly Narcissa
J. Strickland [Strickland crossed out] McDuff, and Mary E. Scarborough, formerly
Mary E. McDuff. My two daughters to draw equal shares, and my above named grandchildren
to have one share equally divided between them. Executors: my beloved wife Lucy,
and my worthy son in law Moses H. Duncan. Signed: Aaron (x) Smith. Witness: Frederick
B. Scarborough, John T. Smith, Charles T. Berryman, Nathan Williams. Recd
8 May 1873
Page 255 ~ Nancy Murray
Recorded 6 Sept 1873
My desire
and request is that Mary F., Melita A, and Ally A. M. Murray remain here on the
place now owned by me so long as they see proper to do so and if they or any one
of them should see fit and proper to leave, the balance things must remain just
as it now is. If any one of the three above named persons, my daughters, choose
to remain on the place, they are to have the privilege of so doing and have as much
land as they are able to cultivate, and the remainder to be rented out and the proceeds
to be equally divided among the lawful heirs of my body. And after the marriage
of my three above named daughters, or they should think proper to break up and leave
the place, I want all of my estate equally divided among the heirs of my body. Executors:
my beloved sons, James M. and Stephen T. Murray. Executors to be trustee of my daughter
Sarah C. Gunnells, her share free from the control of her husband. Signed: Nancy
Murray. Witness: Henry Smith, Jas. S. Trible, Jas. H. Bullock. Recd 6 Sept
1873
Page 257 ~ Jeptha R. Meaders
23 Feb 1864
My beloved wife
Nancy Meaders to have all my estate, both real and personal, for her natural life
or widowhood for her own use & support and to support and raise and educate
my children. In the event she should marry again, or at her death, my estate to
be equally divided between my wife and my seven children. The Methodist Church at
Diamond Hill to have the boundary of land laid off by me out of my tract of land,
as long as the place is used as a place of worship, but when said place shall cease
to be used as a place of worship by said Methodist Church, then the land to revert
back to my estate. I am justly indebted and owe to my two [sons] Samuel C. and William
P. Meaders, $53 each, to be paid out of my estate over and above a distributive
share. My wife Nancy to have full power to sell any surplus of my estate at any
time. Executrix: my wife Nancy Meaders. Signed: Jeptha R. Meaders. Witness: F. W.
Smith, Leonard (x) Hardman, Mary (x) B. Smith. Recd 4 Nov 1874
Page 259 ~ Archelaus P. Moon
6 Aug 1870
To my beloved
wife Nancy L. Moon all my house and lands lying in this county containing 321 acres,
also all my stray lands, stock of all kinds, household & kitchen furniture,
without limitation or reserve. If my wife have heir or heirs by me, then it or they
come in and share equal with my wife. Executrix: my wife Nancy L. Moon. Signed:
A. P. Moon. Witness: George Eberhart, Robert Woods, George Eberhart, Jr., Oliver
Threlkeld. Recd 4 Nov 1874
Page 261 ~ Nathaniel Hix
9 Jun 1855
My wife Joanna Hix
to have and hold all of my property as she shall make choice of for the use of herself
and my children as remain with her during her life or widowhood. In case she should
marry, then all the property remaining to be equally divided among them, my wife
receiving an equal portion with each of my children. In case she never marries,
at her death I wish all equally divided among my children. If any of them should
die leaving a child or children, that child or children to inherit the portion of
its or their deceased father or mother. I wish my four youngest children each to
have a horse, saddle and bridle worth $61 and my daughter Mary to have a saddle
worth $10, and each of my children who have not had of me a cow & calf, bed,
bedstead & clothing for one bed, to make them equal with such as have already
had those things. If William Williams remains with my wife until he is 21 years
of age or till she shall marry or die, I wish him to have a horse, saddle &
bridle worth $61 and $10 in money. Executors: my wife Joanna Hix, and my youngest
son Absolem Cristly Hix. Signed: Nathaniel Hix. Witness: Robert (x) Williams, Sr.,
Dudly J. Chandler, David W. Pattman. Recd 10 Dec 1874
Page 263 ~ Robert Williams
2 Oct 1873
To my daughter
Nancy Harris 300 acres of land as run by William J. Pittman on the 4th
of February last. To my grandson Birdy J. Williams, 100 acres of land where I now
live, as laid off to him on the 4th February last by William J. Pittman.
To my four grandchildren, the children of my son Robert Williams, deceased, a certain
tract of land containing 198 1/2 acres that was granted to me 24 Feb 1853. To my
beloved wife Nancy Williams all the remainder of my land I live upon except 100
acres as hereafter described, also all personal property, to do and dispose of at
her death as she may see proper. The land willed to my four grandchildren, to wit,
Nancy Ann, Margaret, Robert and Elinder Williams to be kept by my executors until
the youngest becomes of age or marries, then the land to be sold and the proceeds
divided equally between them. At my death, the one hundred acres excepted in item
4 be sold and the proceeds shall pay the debt and personal expenses, and if any
is left over, to be equally divided among my children, that is, my four children
now living. Executors: my sons Sanders, William and Perry O. Williams, and my son
in law Hindly Harris. Signed: Robert (x) Williams. Witness: David (x) P. Bradly,
Gabriel Nash, Wellborn S. Williams. Recd 5 Nov 1875
Page 266 ~ Mary Wood
27 Mar 1876
To my daughter Sarah
F. Porterfield, $75. The remainder of my property both real and personal I give
and bequeath to my two minor sons, William S. Wood and George C. Wood in fee simple
to be equally divided between them. Executor: my friend Richard B. Gholston. Signed:
Mary Wood. Witness: John N. Moore, James L. Dudley, H--- D. Pullen, James P. Hall,
J. P. Recd 14 Jun 1876
Page 268 ~ Hugh H. Wiley
10 Jun 1876
We, James S. Dudley,
John F. Barnett, and Josiah Drake were present at the residence of Hugh H. Wiley
of said county on the tenth day of June in the year of our Lord Eighteen Hundred
and Seventy Six before the death of the said Hugh H. Wiley. He, the said Hugh H.
Wiley, was taken sick some time previous to that time. The said Hugh H. Wiley called
upon us to take notice of what he was about to say and the disposition he was about
to make of his property. He, the said Hugh H. Wiley, then said to us that he gave
to Willis J. Dudley all of his property consisting of land and personal property
to be his after the said Hugh H. Wileys death. The said Hugh H. Wiley then
said he appointed the said Willis J. Dudley as the person to attend to and carry
out his will after his death. The said Hugh H. Wiley continued to languish in his
said last sickness from the said tenth day of June Eighteen Hundred and Seventy
Six until the nineteenth day of June Eighteen Hundred and Seventy Six when he at
his residence in said county died. Signed: James S. (x) Dudley, John F. Barnett,
Josiah (x) Drake. Recd 8 Jul 1876
Page 270 ~ Henry P. White
16 Nov 1876
My wife Mary White
shall have all of my estate both real and personal that I now possess or that may
be coming to me by will or otherwise, during her natural life or widowhood, except
as hereinafter directed. In the event my wife should marry, all my property (except
my bedstead and bed furniture generally which is to be reserved for the purpose
of making the children which yet are with me equal to those who have left me) be
sold. Each child yet remaining with me, as they come of age or leave, shall have
property as near equal in value as possible as those who have left me. My son Stephen
B. White to have $400 worth of land or its equivalent in money or other property.
Each of my daughters are to have all the quilts or other bed furniture of their
own make, independent of what they receive out of my estate, also any other property
they may purchase by their own labor or the proceeds of their own labor. In the
event my wife should marry, she is to have an equal share with my children. If my
wife does not marry, at her death my children to be made equal, then the remainder
of my estate to be equally divided among all of my children. Executors: my beloved
wife Mary White, my son Henry W. White and my son in law James E. Sanders. Signed:
Henry P. White. Witness: R. M. Mironey, Elba Collins, James L. Patton. Recd
10 Feb 1877
Page 273 ~ F. E. Power
21 Aug 1877
My just debts to be
paid in a way to secure a home for my beloved wife and children. All my estate both
real and personal to remain in the hands of my beloved wife Elizabeth P. Power during
her life or widowhood, that is the remainder after my just debts have been paid.
My four single children, to wit, Mary J. Power, James B. Power, Sarah C. Power,
Francis E. Power, to be made equal with my other children who are married off whenever
they marry off or at the death of my wife. At the death of my wife (or marriage)
all my estate should be equally divided between my beloved wife Elizabeth Power,
if she should marry, and my seven children, to wit, Mary J. Power, Martha H. Vaughan,
Wm. W. Power, Elizabeth F. Power, James B. Power, Sarah C. Power, and Francis E.
Power. Executor: Isaac V. Moore. Signed: F. E. Power. Witness: J. B. Power, J. T.
Sims, I. V. Moore. Recd 5 Oct 1877
Page 275 ~ Bennett Simmons
24 Sept 1863
My beloved wife
Bethany Simmons to have at my death my entire estate both real and personal during
her natural life or widowhood. Should my wife marry again, she to have a childs
part of my estate. As my children marry or become of age, my wife to give off to
them such property as she may think she can spare, at valuation, the child receiving
the property to choose one disinterested man and my executrix to choose another,
and those two men to choose another to value said property. My wife to have full
and general power to sell any portion of my estate that she may think necessary
for the support and education of my children. At the death of my wife, all my estate
to be equally divided among my children. If my wife should marry, then after her
share is taken out, the remainder of my estate to be equally divided among my children.
Executrix: my wife Bethany Simmons. Signed: Bennett Simmons. Witness: Richard B.
Gholston, Robert P. Griffith, Walton H. Griffith. Recd 8 May 1878
Page 277 ~ Ranford E. Hitchcock
20 Mar 1878
To my beloved
wife Martha Hitchcock, the place or tract of land whereon I now live. Except what
I may dispose of hereafter in this will, I also give my wife all or so much of my
stock of all kinds & household and kitchen furniture that she may choose. All
of said property I give my wife during her natural life. To my grandson Walter C.
Hitchcock, 100 acres of land known as the White Hall place. It is also my will that
my said grandson be raised, clothed and schooled with a good English education out
of my estate. Also, upon his arriving at age, a good horse, bridle and saddle, one
bed, bedstead & furniture. To my daughter Emma R. A. Carithers, 100 acres of
land adjoining the tract given my grandson Walter C. Hitchcock. To my daughter Georgia
A. Griffith, 102 1/2 acres adjoining lands given to my grandson E. H. R. Carithers.
The property I give to my daughters to go to them and the heirs of their body, free
from the debts or liabilities of their present or future husbands. The property
I have heretofore given off to any of my children, they shall not be required to
account on final distribution of my estate. The heirs of my son John W. Hitchcock
should have no further share in my estate, as I have given him and paid off for
him debts more than a distributive share of my estate. The property I give in this
will to my daughter Martha Jane Thornton I give to her and her heirs, free from
the control of her present or any future husband. My grandson Walter C. to have
one share with my children of the remainder of my estate after the death of my wife.
At the death of my wife, the home place to be run off into lots and divided between
my heirs, also the household and kitchen furniture. To Sarah Martin, formerly S.
E. Hitchcock, the sum of $50, also to Robert R. Hitchcock, the sum of $50, both
children of my son John W. Hitchcock. At the death of my wife, all my real estate
and personal property be sold and equally divided between my children as named below,
to wit, Melita C. Glenn, the heirs of my daughter Julia A. Griffith, deceased, my
son W. C. Hitchcock, the heirs of my son Murray S. Hitchcock, my daughter Sarah
E. Glenn, my daughter Elizabeth Carithers, my daughter Martha J. P. Thornton, my
daughter Emma A. R. Carithers, my daughter Georgia A. Griffith, my son Charles E.
R. Hitchcock, and my grandson Walter C. Hitchcock. The property I have given my
daughter Emma A. R. Carithers to be equally divided between Walter C. Hitchcock,
and other heir or heirs she may have, after her death. Executors: My wife Martha
Hitchcock and my sons W. C. and C. R. E. Hitchcock, and my son in law O. P. Griffith.
Signed: Ranford E. Hitchcock. G. Daniel, J. A. Greene, J. M. Skinner. Recd
10 Oct 1878.
Page 281 ~ James Bradley
Recorded 17 Oct 1878
To my beloved
wife Anne all my estate both real and personal during her natural life, to keep
and not dispose of by selling to others, etc. At the death of my wife, or at my
death, should I survive her, my two daughters Frances Anne and Sarah E., and my
grandson Marion I., the son of my daughter Sarah E. Hall, have forever all of my
estate to be equally divided between them, because they have stayed with me in my
old age and comforted and waited on me, with this exception: at my death I give
to my said grandson Marion I. my set of carpenters tools, except the cross cut saw,
and at the death of my beloved wife Anne, my daughter is to have a good feather
bed and furniture, I mean my married daughter Nancy E. Seagraves, the blue pine
chest, the red pine foress(?) that I now possess. Having given my sons John Walton
and William Monroe, and my daughter Nancy Seagraves, when they left, one such outfit
as I was able, that is to say, I gave John Walton, my son, a horse and saddle worth
$90, I think, I cow & calf, bed & furniture, oxen, hogs, etc. Also, when
my son William Monroe left, I gave him a horse & saddle, more valuable than
the one I gave John Walton, also a bed & furniture, cow & calf, hogs, etc.
Also when my daughter Nancy Seagraves left, I gave her a young mare worth I think
$50, a cow & calf, a bed & furniture, hogs, etc. Consequently, I now give
them, my sons or their heirs and my daughter Nancy Seagraves, nothing more except
what I give Nancy Seagraves in the fourth item of this will. Executor: my friend
and neighbor James A. Crawford. Signed: James Bradley. Witness: Gabriel Nash, John
Brooks, W. W. Brooks. Recd 17 Oct 1878
Page 283 ~ James C. Freeman
14 May 1878
I have bargained
and sold to James Y. Door 50 acres of land, a portion of the place I now live on,
and it is my will that my executors make said Door a deed to said 50 acres whenever
Door finishes paying for the same. My brother Matthew S. Freeman and his wife Lulia
to have 50 acres of unimproved land for and during their natural lives, provided
they will come and live on same and be paying the tax on the same for the time,
but he is not to sell or to rent or dispose of the same, and at their death, said
50 acres of land to revert to my estate. In the event my said brother declines to
come and remain on said land, it also reverts to my estate. And in case my brother
should come on said land and then abandon it, it likewise reverts to my estate.
In case my brother dies before his wife Lulia, she is allowed to remain on the same
during her life. To my wife Malissa E. Freeman and my three daughters (to wit) Laura
E., Cornelia R., Kizziah I., all of the remainder of my land, 100 acres more or
less, and all the balance of my property, and the 50 acres given to Matthew S. Freeman
when it reverts to my estate. My wife to have full control of all the property.
At her death, my property to be equally divided between my three daughters. Executors:
my wife Malissa E. Freeman and my brother Matthew S. Freeman. Signed: James C. Freeman.
Witness: J. J. Moore, J. Y. Door, R. M. Mironey. Recd October 1878
Page 285 ~ Mary Ann Henderson
4 Nov 1876
I, Mary Ann
Henderson of Paoli, Madison County
One half of my property and real estate
to be disposed of according to the provisions made in the last will of my husband
Robert Henderson, deceased. The other half I wish to be disposed of in the manner
following; if my son William Marion Henderson survives me, it is my will that $200
be set apart for furnishing my husbands grave and mine with suitable tombstones,
provided this $200 is not necessary to supply the comforts of life to my son William
Marion Henderson during his natural life. The remainder of this half of my property
I give to my son William Marion Henderson to be used and disposed of as he may think
proper during his natural life. This property consists of one half of a tract of
land in Paoli, Madison County, one half of the dwelling on it with all the appurtenance,
one half of all the stock hogs, cows, horses, etc, also one half of all the moneys,
bonds & notes. Executor: my son William Marion Henderson. Signed: Mary Ann (x)
Henderson. Witness: Thomas W. Long, Thomas A. Long, Young H. Daniel, all of Paoli.
[No recording date]
Page 287 ~ Cato Ware
25 Feb 1871
I give my two grandsons,
Charles Ware and Thomas Ware, all of my estate. Executor: my son in law, Tyson(?)
Matthews. Signed: Cato (x) Ware. Witness: B. S. Ware, Tyrom (x) Matthews, Cato (x)
Ware. [No recording date]
Page 288 ~ Elijah Williams
5 Feb 1872
I desire and request
that my seven daughters, viz, Permelia Tolbert, Sally Landers, Nancy Lane, Elizabeth
Cheatham, Anna C. Strickland, Martha A. Thomas, Mary A. Power, have $90 each to
make them equal with my four sons, viz, William B., John Z., Britton S. and Birdy
O. Williams. And also the sum of $25 each to all my daughters to make them equal
to my four sons, as my four sons has had that advantage in the horses that I gave
them. To my beloved wife Elizabeth, all that she brought here when she became my
wife and one half of what she makes while she remains with me and $100 to be paid
to her in ready money to dispose of as she pleases. The residue of my property to
be sold and equally divided between the lawful heirs of my body. Executors: my beloved
sons John Z. and Birdy O. Williams. Signed: Elijah Williams. Witness: J. W. Gunnells,
Henry Smith, Gabriel Nash. Recd Jan 1880.
Page 292 ~ Bennett Sims
26 Dec 1878
To my wife Margaret
A., all my tract of land I now live on, except as hereinafter named, during her
natural life or widowhood. In case of her death or marriage, the right and tittle
to rest in James H. Bullock in trust for my daughter Naomi B. Sims if she be living,
or if she shall depart this life having no heirs of her body, then the said to revert
back to my estate. Also to my wife, without reserve, my young mare Jinnett, one
choice cow and calf, one sow & pigs, and pork hogs enough to make meat enough
for one year, the featherbed and bed stead and two thirds of all the bedding clothes,
one sideboard, one bureau, two chests, one set chairs, one set of plates, cups &
saucers, knives & forks, dishes and all my cooking utensils. To my son William
W. Sims, the tract of land he now lives on containing 200 acres, free frm any debts
now existing against him or any that he may hereafter contract, and after his death
to be divided between his children. Having done more for him than any of the rest
of my children, I give him no other part or interest in my estate. To my son Charles
M. Sims, 200 acres of land to be run off the upper end of my land by running a line
from Kirks line to Colberts line, including the house and plantation
whereon he now live. To my daughter Naomi B., $100 to educate her and $100 in lieu
of a horse, to go into the hands of James H. Bullock as trustee, cow & calf
and other articles the rest of my children have had, one featherbed and bedstead,
and one third of all the bed clothes, and one chest and wardrobe. The balance of
my property to my wife and children, to wit, Margaret A. Sims, James J. Sims, John
M. Sims, Mildred B. Bullock, Charles M. Sims, Naomi B. Sims, to be equally divided.
I appoint James H. Bullock as trustee for my daughter Naomi B. Sims. Executor: my
son John M. Sims and James H. Bullock. Signed: Bennett Sims. Witness: W. J. Meaders,
C. W. Morris, R. H. Bullock. Recd 10 Jun 1880.
Page 295 ~ Benjamin J. Brewer
23 Feb 1880
To my wife
Martha Victoria, the tract of land on which I now live containing 184 acres with
all the rights, members and appurtenances thereon belonging, also a tract of land
in said county and the county of Heart containing 71 acres adjoining Dickerson,
Tucker and others, during her natural life or widowhood, that she may be enabled
to live and raise my little children and also her little daughter Fannie Rebecca,
and at her death or marriage, the lands to be equally divided between my little
children, Georgia Victoria, Benjamin I., Wiley Randle, Susanna, and Amanda Catherine.
The tract of land on which I live to remain subject to a lease which I have given
heretofore to my son Jacob L. on a part of the same. Also to my wife Martha Victoria,
all my household and kitchen furniture, my farming and other tools, all of my cattle
and hogs, my mare, and what money, notes and accounts I may die possessed of, and
other personal property. The bequests made to my wife are in full of her dower.
The bequests and gifts to my wife shall all be forfeited upon her marriage or a
course of life which would be inconsistent with the welfare of my children, in which
case the said property shall go immediately to the children above named as tenants
in remainder of said lands provided, notwithstanding that if my wife should forfeit
her claim as above provided, she shall be entitled to her dower, or a childs
part, except by marriage, in that event she shall not be entitled dower or a childs
part. To my son Jacob L. and my daughters Sarah Elizabeth and Nancy Mildred, $5
each. To Fannie Rebecca, one cow & calf, and featherbed & bedstead. Executors:
my wife Martha Victoria Brewer and my son Jacob L. Brewer. Signed: Benjamin Brewer.
Witness: A. C. Daniel, R. G. Chambers, W. F. Phillips, J. T. Smith. Recd 10
Jun 1880.
Page 298 ~ M. E. Cunningham
2 Apr 1880
I, M. Cunningham,
wife of Benjamin F. Cunningham
give to my daughter Minta the featherbed my
mother gave her. The remainder of my separate property to be valued at a fair valuation
and that my husband Benjamin F. Cunningham hold the same until my youngest child
becomes of age. I desire that there shall be an equal division of my property between
all my children and husband, including my granddaughter Elizabeth Thomas, provided
she remains as one of the family till that time. Executor: my husband Benjamin F.
Cunningham. Signed: M. E. (x) Cunningham. Witness: Emma J. Moon, F. A. White, J.
H. White. Recd 10 Jul 1880.
Page 300 ~ Samuel F. Beard
13 Mar 1873
To my wife during
her natural life or widowhood, the plantation upon which I now live for her sole
use and benefit, and at her death I will and bequeath said plantation to my daughter
Cintha Ellen Beard. Such personal property as my executor cannot take care of to
be sold and the proceeds equally divided amongst all my children. All of my household &
kitchen furniture to my wife during her lifetime, and at her death to be sold and
the proceeds equally divided amongst all my children. My horse & buggy I will
to my wife during her life, and at her death to be sold and equally divided amongst
all my children. Should my daughter Cintha Ellen die without leaving a living child,
the plantation to be sold and the proceeds equally divided amongst all my children.
Executrix: my wife. Signed: Samuel F. Beard. Witness: John M. Matthews, P. E. Matthews,
Jas. M. Matthews. Recd 7 Sept 1880.
Page 302 ~ John L. Lester
23 Oct 1880
My son J. A. L.
Lester shall have 50 acres of my land to be surveyed off so as to include the place
whereon he now resides. My son Rufus E. Lester shall have 50 acres of land to be
surveyed next to and adjoining the land surveyed off for L. A. J. Lester. It is
also my will that Rufus E. Lester shall have my gray mule and a saddle worth $10.
My daughter Mary J. Lester shall have 50 acres of land to be surveyed off adjoining
the lands of Rufus E. Lester, said tract to be surveyed off square across the western
end of my land. The balance of my land to be equally divided between my two youngest
daughters, Cornelia and Susan Lester, after the payment of my doctor bill and burial
expenses. My wife Sarah L. Lester shall have the use and control of all that part
of my property bequeathed to Cornelia and Susan so long as she shall remain my widow.
[No executor named] Signed: John (x) L. Lester. Witness: J. M. Cheatham, Joel B.
Thompson, Jeremiah M. Sewell. Recd 4 Nov 1880.
Page 304 ~ Lewis Scarborough
13 May 1877
Indenture: Lewis
Scarborough, to Frances M. Scarborough, his wife, for the sum of $5 cash in hand,
and for the natural love and affection he has and bears to his dear wife, does by
these presents give, grant and convey to her, at my death, 260 acres in the 59th
District of Madison County, also my sorrel horse, and all the other stock, cows,
hogs and sheep, farming tools and wagons and household and kitchen furniture and
everything that pertains to my estate, together with all the singular rights, members
and appurtenances, for her own proper use and benefit in fee simple during her natural
life, and at her death to be equally divided between my heirs Elizabeth O.
Smith, Trecey A. Hall, Sarah J. Duncan, Mary A. Bowers, Caroline E. Strickland and
my grandchildren, I bequeath to them the children of my son Allen W. Scarborough,
to wit, Theodosia Scarborough, Duly Scarborough, Allen F. Scarborough, Walker Scarborough,
to have a childs part of my estate at the death of my wife Frances M. Scarborough,
Henry Scarborough children Lucy H. Scarborough $1, Docia Scarborough $1, Henrietta
Scarborough $1. I also give to the children of my son Thomas Scarborough, Crawford
Scarborough, $1 out of my estate for his part, to Willis Scarborough $1, and to
Aley M. Crider $1, Amey Scarborough $1 as their portion of my estate. Signed: Lewis
(x) Scarborough. Witness: Singleton S. Gin, Charles T. Berryman, F. B. Scarborough.
[No recording date]
Page 306 ~ Boley Wilson
23 Mar 1880
To my beloved wife
Clarisa all of my estate both real and personal during her natural life or widowhood,
and at her death or marriage to be sold and equally divided between my children
Pyrena Chandler, Margaret Strickland, Nancy Williams, Jane Chandler, Martha Wilson,
Samuel B. Wilson. To my granddaughter Ophelia Wilson, $50 cash. To my son Samuel
B. Wilson, my chest of tools. Executors: my wife Clarisa and my son Samuel B. Wilson.
Signed: Boley Wilson. Witness: Reuben P. McGinnis, A. H. Hix, J. B. Hix. Codicil:
Since writing the seven first items, my daughter Nancy Williams has died, leaving
three children, Lula, Mattie and James Williams. It is my will that the said children
shall have the legacy that their mother was to have, equally divided between them.
And should any of the legatees die before the division, their children, should there
be any, shall have the legacy that their mother or father was to get. Recd
March 1881.
Page 309 ~ Asa Deadwyler
26 Feb 1881
To my beloved wife
Mary Ann D. one bed and bed clothing in addition to her share in my estate. All
the rest and residue of my estate, both real and personal, to be equally divided
between my wife and all my children. The share of my estate given to my daughter
Martha Comer to be held by George E. Deadwyler and A. P. Deadwyler as trustees for
her. Executors: George E. Deadwyler and A. P. Deadwyler. Signed: Asa Deadwyler.
Witness: W. H. Power, John Johnson, J. B. Eberhart, J. P. Recd 8 Apr 1881
Page 311 ~ John Manry
14 Aug 1879
My entire estate be
equally divided between my stepdaughter Nancy E. Cooper, Henry M. Cooper, William
B. Cooper, Eliza J. Cooper, and John S. Cooper, children of the said Nancy E. Cooper.
If any portion of my estate should not be desired by the legatees or any one of
them, said property to be sold as the legatees may think best. Whereas I have given
a bond to John I. Landers to execute tittle to a certain tract of land known as
the Henry Manning place, whenever the purchase money is paid, I will and devise
that Henry M. Cooper and William B. Cooper execute tittle in accordance with said
bond. None of the acts or proceedings of my legatees be necessarily made matter
of record in any court in the shape of yearly returns or otherwise except the probate
and record of this my last will and testament. Signed: John (x) Manry. Witness:
Richard B. Gholston, K. D. Strickland, Joseph Elbert Martin, Thomas Lumpkin Martin.
Recd 4 Apr 1881.
Page 313 ~ Amanda E. Morris
26 Apr 1881
To my beloved
daughter Elizabeth Morris the tract of land whereon Henry Morris now lives containing
130 acres with all rights, members and appurtenances, to her own proper use and
benefit, with full power to dispose of same by will or otherwise. Also to my daughter
Elizabeth all of the property which I now possess, consisting of two beds &
furniture, chairs, cupboard, chest, one cow & calf, and all other property of
which I may die possessed. Executor: my beloved brother Wyatt Hawkins [Bullock].
Signed: Amanda E. (x) Morris. Witness: Jesse W. Griffith, H. C. Mann, Thos. W. Mabry.
Recd 1 Aug 1881.
Page 315 ~ Sanders W. Colbert
26 May 1880
To my son James
F. Colbert, two tracts of land in Banks County, the two tracts containing about
1800 acres. Also one half interest in two other tracts of land in Madison County
on the waters of Blue Stone Creek, one of them known as the Scott Mill Tract with
the mill thereon, containing 600 acres, the other of said tracts known as the McKin
place adjoining the mill tract, containing about 390 acres. The other half of the
said two tracts I sold to my said son for the sum of $2,750, the receipt of which
I hereby acknowledge. To my grandson Sanders Hite Colbert, my gold watch and my
ivory headed walking cane. To my beloved wife Margaret Mc. Colbert, and my daughter
Sarah A. Colbert, the balance of my estate both real and personal during their natural
lives and at the death of either of them, the whole of said property to remain together
for the benefit of the other, whichever may survive the other, so long as she may
live. Said property consisting of my home place with the mills thereon containing
about twenty four or five hundred acres on the waters of Brushy Creek, all my Georgia
Railroad and Banking Company stock now numbering 101 shares, 25 shares in the Atlanta
and West Point Railroad Company, 10 shares in the Bank of the University Athens
Georgia, all dividends arising therefrom all monies, bonds, notes, executives,
accounts and other evidence of accounts due me, household and kitchen furniture,
buggies, wagons, carts, stock, tools, and every other article of property I may
die possessed of. My wife to have power to sell surplus as suits her convenience.
It is my will and earnest desire that, owing to the unfortunate condition of my
said daughter, it is my will and request that my wife shall at all times keep some
good and suitable white woman employed for the purpose of attending to the wants
and needs in every respect of my said daughter Sarah A. Colbert, and feeling myself
able to amply provide for her comfort so far as the question of money is concerned,
it is my solemn request it shall be done to the fullest extent so long as my said
daughter shall live, and in case my wife should die before her, it is my will and
request that my son James F. Colbert faithfully execute and carry out the above
request in every particular for the benefit of my said daughter. In case my daughter
should survive my wife and son both, it is my request that the Ordinary of this
county shall appoint a good and suitable person as the guardian of the person and
property of my said daughter during her natural life. My executors to invest any
surplus money arising from the income of my property in some good stock for the
use and benefit of my wife and daughter. At the death of my wife and daughter both,
the property bequeathed them to be equally divided between all the begotten children
by any or all lawful wife or wives present, past or future, with this exception
and distinct understanding and reservation; my son James F. Colbert to have my Home
Place and mills thereon containing twenty four or five hundred acres of land on
Brushy Creek and farming implements during his natural life and at his death to
be equally divided among all his lawful children. This provision is made in consideration
of the service I expect my son James F. Colbert to render my wife and daughter,
and other natural considerations between father and son; but in no event is my son
to sell said land or property . I appoint my son James F. Colbert trustee for all
his lawful children and request him to continue the investments after the death
of my wife and daughter for the benefit of his children. Executors: my beloved wife
Margaret Mc. Colbert and my son James F. Colbert. Signed: Sanders W. Colbert. Witness:
John F. Kirk, J. W. Griffith, W. H. Bullock, R. J. Sorrells. [No recording date]
Page 321 ~ Jacob P. Patton
16 Feb 1882
To the children
of my brother Matthew R. Patton, deceased, the sum of $500 out of my estate, provided
said children should call for said sum within five years from my death, and if not
called for by said children within five years from my death, then I will and bequeath
said sum to my sister N. G. Benton. To my sister Narcissa G. Benton, 150 acres of
land off of the place I now live on according to platt made by W. J. Pittman and
dated 9th December 1854, and 15 acres that I bought from the Millican
girls. $200 in money to my sister Narcissa G. Benton, and the further sum of $75
in money in lieu of twelve months support after my death. The balance of my estate
to Susan L. Bray, Dolly Bray, Ann Bray, Gussie Bray, and Alice Aaron and W. E. Nash,
share and share alike, free from the control of any other person. Executor: my friend
J. H. Goss. Signed: J. P. Patton. Witness: A. C. Campbell, W. R. Benton, L. E. Daniel,
G. W. Daniel. Recd 4 Sept 1882.
Page 324 ~ Elbu Collins
October 1882
To my beloved wife
Malinda Collins, the companion of my bosom and the partner of my joy and of my sorrows,
for and during her natural life, the tract of land on which I now live known as
my home place, with all the improvements and appurtenances, together with the tract
or little parcel which I purchased from W. J. Burgess and the little parcel I purchased
from H. F. Davis, also the town tract and the Burroughs tract, all lying adjacent
to my home tract. I also give my wife for and during her natural life all my household
and kitchen furniture, four mules to be selected by herself, also two cows and calves,
and ten head of hogs. All the property real and personal mentioned I give to my
wife for life, it being understood that my son Joab T. shall live with my wife,
--- the farm, take care of the property, kindly and affectionately treat his mother,
support and maintain both my self and my wife so long as we both shall live, and
in all particulars continue as he has been a dutiful, kind and affectionate son.
And in consideration that my son Joab T. is to live with, support, maintain and
kindly treat both myself and my wife during our lives, it is my will and desire
that all the property herein before bequeathed to my wife for life shall at her
death become the property of my beloved son Joab T. Collins. To my daughter Harriett
F. Thornton, in addition to what I have heretofore given her, the sum of $500 in
cash. To my daughter Margaret M. Hawks, in addition to what I have heretofore given
her, the sum of $500 in cash. To my son Joab T. Collins in trust for the use and
enjoyment of my daughter in law Ellen Collins and my grandchild Minnie Collins,
the wife and child of my son James Willis Collins, and any future wife and child
or children of my son James Willis Collins, the following property, to wit, a tract
of land known as my Rice tract, and that part of Christian tract which I yet own,
and also that part of the Shoemaker tract which I yet own, said property to be held
in trust for the use and benefit of the wife and children of J. W. Collins until
his youngest child becomes 21, and then the title to this property shall rest absolutely
in the children of J. W. Collins if J. W. Collins is not in life, but if in life
then title to rest with in J. W. Collins jointly. To my son Joab T. Collins, the
tract of land known as my Bill Place or Mill tract, also my Wilhite tract and my
Deadwyler tract. To my beloved daughter Huldah P. Langford, for and during her natural
life, the following property, to wit, my Roland Brown tract, my Griffith tract,
and my Miller tract, to remain her property during her life and at her death to
become the property of her children. The children of those deceased shall stand
instead of the deceased parent. If there be in my will apparent differences made
between my children, my reason for the differences is their difference in treatment
which I have received from them. I have given to my daughter Harriett F. 200 acres
of land heretofore and to Margaret M. $800 in money heretofore. My property not
herein before specifically mentioned and disposed of to be sold and applied to the
payment of any debts and expenses that may arise from my death and burial, and to
the payment of the two cash legacies bequeathed to my daughters. Executor: my son
Joab T. Collins. Signed: Elbu Collins. Witness: Isaac Strickland, J. T. Adams, Henry
David, J. B. Estes. Recd Nov 1882.
Page 329 ~ Isham Cheatham
Recorded 6 Nov 1882
To my beloved
wife Delilah Cheatham, two beds and two bedsteads, together with the furniture belonging
to the same, and such other furniture as she had at the time of our marriage; one
blue chest, one side saddle, one set knives and forks, one set cups and saucers,
one set plates, one trunk, one pepper box, and one pair waffle irons, all which
she had at the time of our marriage. Also one share of the Capital Stock of the
Georgia Railroad and Banking Company. All the above property I will and bequeath
to her in her own right, in that she may control and dispose of it as she pleases.
In addition, I give and bequeath to my wife, for her own use and benefit during
her natural life, 80 acres on the south side of my plantation, to include within
its boundaries my residence and all other buildings, to be a home for as long as
she may live. Also one cupboard, one chest, two tables, six chairs, one spinning
wheel, one pair cotton cards, one set cups and saucers, six plates, one dish, two
pitchers, two jugs, two water buckets, one cooking stove and the utensils belonging
to it, and such other cooking utensils as she may need, one wash tub and wash pot,
one horse and buggy and harness, one cow and calf, one sow and pigs; all the property
specified in this item to be used by her for her benefit and support during her
natural life, and at her death to revert back to my estate and be equally divided
among my children. My wife to have the option of taking a childs part or portion
of my estate instead of a life estate in property bequeathed to her if she so elects.
The whole of my estate, after complying with the forgoing provision, be impartially
and equally divided and distributed among my nine children, to wit, Adaline Lesters
children, Parmelia Sims now deceased, Josiah Cheatham, Mary Burroughs, Nancy Busbin,
Catherine Landers, John J. Cheatham, Elizabeth Collins, and Prudence Graham. Executor:
Josiah Cheatham. Signed: Isham Cheatham. Witness: H. O. Johnson, J. H. Pittard,
Aquilla Pittard. Recd 6 Nov 1882.
Page 333 ~ Lindsey G. Colbert
29 Mar 1875
To my beloved
wife Parthena Colbert, for and during her natural life, all my estate real and personal
and of whatever kind, and at her death to go to my daughter in law Ella C. Colbert
and her five daughters, Martha L. Colbert, Susie A. Colbert, Ella M. Colbert, Alice
I. Colbert and Augusta L. Colbert, my grandchildren and only decendants, in fee
simple, share and share alike. And in the event of the death of any of said grandchildren
childless, her interest to be merged in the general estate as though she had never
been a legatee. In the event of the marriage of my daughter in law Ella C. Colbert,
the share given to her shall go to and belong to my said grandchildren thereafter.
Executor: my young friend Judge Albert L. Mitchell of the county of Clark. Signed:
Lindsey G. Colbert. Witness: Frank Lumpkin, A. H. McDuff, James White, James A.
Carlton. Recd 1 Dec 1882.
Page 336 ~ Wm T. Moon
19 Dec 1881
To my children Susan
and Emma and A. P. Moon, each the same amount of personal property and household
stuff that Elizabeth A. Daniel has already received, so they may be equal. The balance
of my property to be divided into four equal lots, and all my children shall draw
one lot. I have already given Elizabeth A. Daniel her share of land by deed and
$300 worth of Geo. Railroad Stock and will therefore give her no further interest
in my estate except for as appears above. Of the cash on hand, I give to Susan and
Emma and A. P. Moon each $300. All my land I give to my three children, Susan and
Emma and A. P. Moon, as tenants in common so long as they are all unmarried. But
if Emma should marry then 68 acres of said land shall be cut off to her so as to
leave the homestead and out buildings on the remaining. The remaining 136 acres
I give in like manner to my daughter Emma and my son A. P. Moon. To my daughter
Emma, my organ. To residue of my property to my four children. Executor: my son
in law and my daughter Emma Moon. Signed: W. T. (x) Moon. Witness: John J. Strickland,
L. J. McElhannon, M. L. Christian. Recd 5 Feb 1883.
Page 340 ~ Gabriel Nash
4 Feb 1883
After my death, my
executor to sell the land on which Abram Scott now lives, and out of the proceeds
pay all my debts, and the remainder to become part of my personal property. The
rest of my property of every description, except the tract of land which I now live,
I give and bequeath to my three daughters, Mary Nash, Letty J. Nash and Martha Nash
as tenants in common of equal share, and they shall have authority to do with said
property as they please. The tract of land on which I now live, together with all
the appurtenances, to my three daughters, Mary Nash, Lettie J. Nash and Martha Nash
as tenants in common so long as they all three remain on the land. So soon as one
of the said daughters shall leave said land, either by marriage, death or otherwise,
she shall then have no further interest in the land and the remaining two daughters
shall own and preserve it as tenants in common. When one of the remaining daughters
leaves said land by marriage, death or otherwise, then the remaining daughter shall
have and possess it alone. And when she shall leave said land either by marriage,
death or otherwise, then I give and bequeath the same to the children born and to
be born and their heirs forever of the following of my children, to wit, Mary Nash,
Nancy Skinner, and Henry C. Nash, that is to say, the children of each of my children
last named shall represent one share together in same. Since I devise no property
sold except the tract on which Abram Scott now lives, which contains something over
500 acres, my executor to sell said land without an order from the court, that he
make no inventory of my estate, but that he turn in immediately on my death all
property I have willed to my said daughters Mary Nash, Lettie J. Nash and Martha
Nash. Executor: my friend John J. Strickland. Signed: Gabriel Nash. Witness: Chas.
B. Hering, W. R. Benton, James F. Payne. Recd 5 Mar 1883
Page 344 ~ William Webster
18 Jul 1882
To my beloved
wife Emily Webster, to have and dispose of in any manner she pleases, all of my
property which I may own at the time of my death. Executrix: my wife Emily Webster.
Signed: William (x) Webster. Witness: F. M. McCombs, J. C. Deadwyler, John M. Matthews.
[No recording date]
Page 346 ~ John Scott
24 Oct 1881
My body to be buried
in the cemetery at Danielsville and my resting place marked as my executor thinks
befitting my estate. All my property both real and personal be sold and my debts
be paid. To my brother Wm. W. Scott and my sister Elizabeth McKie each $5. The remainder
of my estate to be divided into equal parts, one of which I give to the bodily heirs
of my sister Harriett McKie, another part to the bodily heirs of my brother Charles
Scott, the other part I give to my beloved sister Letty Brannon during her natural
life and at her death to her daughter Jane Brannon, but should Jane Brannon die
without issue before Letty Brannon, the part of my estate willed to her shall be
divided into two parts, one of which shall be equally divided among the heirs of
my sister Harriett McKie and the other equally divided among all the bodily heirs
of my brother Charles Scott. Executor: my friend and neighbor W. A. Stone. Signed:
John (x) Scott. Witness: R. H. Kinnebrew, T. P. Davis, W. B. Hosey. Recd 7
Jan 1884
Page 348 ~ Susan W. Simson
24 Jan 1884
To my niece Susan
W. Bobo, my home place tract of land whereon I now reside with the understanding
that she is to take care of, support my idiotic sister Frances Simson her lifetime,
the tract containing 100 acres, which to be the right legal property of the said
Susan after my death. To Willey O. B. Bobo, my little relative whom I have raised,
my tract of land of 50 acres known as the John Busby place, he is also to help Susan
take care of Frances. Also to Willey O. B., my featherbed and clothing. Susan W.
Bobo and Willie O. B. jointly see to the taking care of my sister Joanna Elizabeth,
provided she falls into circumstances that she needs their assistance, and the balance
of my household and kitchen furniture I give to the same parties equally. I appoint
my niece Susan W. Bobo trustee to look after care for Willey O.B. till such time
as he arrive at sufficient age and culpability to take care of himself. Signed:
Susan W. (x) Simson. Witness: John F. Kirk, B. J. (x) Tyryen, David (x) L. Gordon.
Recd 5 Dec 1884.
Page 348 ~ John R. Bond
16 Aug 1882
To my son John H.
Bond, the place he now lives containing 150 acres at $150. To my son William H.
Bond, the place he now lives containing 150 acres at $150. To my son Joseph E. Bond,
all the 95 acres of land adjoining the Shiloh Church lot and other lands of my estate,
also the place I now live on as a remuneration for taking care of me in my declining
days, as it is my intention to keep my said son Joseph E. Bond with me during my
lifetime; said place containing 60 or 70 acres. To my daughter Malinda H. McEwen,
wife of Alexander McEwen, 95 acres free from control or debts of her husband, it
being the place they now live. To my daughter Emily E. Saxton, wife of Miles Saxton,
95 acres, it being the place thy now live on, free from the control of her husband.
I have given my daughter Eliza J. Whitworth $50 in cash heretofore; I give her the
further sum of $100 in cash for her use, and at her death to go to her children.
I have given my daughter Isabel Fitts $50 in cash heretofore; I give her the further
sum of $100 in cash. To my two grandsons, John R. Bond and James M. Bond, sons of
my deceased son Livingston Bond, $150 to be equally divided between them. To my
four grandchildren and children of my deceased daughter Mary M. Guest (to wit) Nealy
Guest, Fannie Guest, Olly Guest and John Guest, $150 share and share alike, to wit,
$37.50 to each grandchild. To my deaf and dumb grandson John F. Fitts, $75 in consideration
of his misfortune. It is my desire that where I have given land to any of my children,
they receive it at the value of $150. At my death, that which is known as my old
place containing 133 1/3 acres and all other property of every kind, to be sold
and after paying all debts and the legacies named in this will, the remainder to
be equally divided among all of my children. Executors: my two sons, John H. Bond
and Joseph E. Bond. Signed: John R. Bond. Witness: J. P. Looney, G. W. McGarity,
W. W. Beard. Recd 7 Apr 1884
Page 354 ~ William M. Smith
22 Apr 1884
To my beloved
wife Patsy Smith, my bosom companion, all my property both real and personal for
her benefit and use during her natural life, to use and control as she deems for
her own benefit. To my granddaughter Lucy White, the daughter of my daughter Nancy
E. White, $150 cash to be paid after the death of my wife, having advanced to Nancy
E. White in her lifetime about or near her distributive share of my estate. All
my property given to my beloved wife, I give and bequeath to my beloved son William
L. Smith and my daughter Mary P. Rogers, the wife of Robert T. Rogers, to be equally
divided between them after the death of my wife. Executor: my son William L. Smith.
Signed: William M. (x) Smith. Witness: Thomas D. Hawks, Warren T. Hawks, Jonah E.
Hawks. Recd 6 Oct 1884
Page 356 ~ Mary O. Chandler
26 Dec 1884
My household
property of every kind to be equally divided between my children, Cornelia and Obediah,
when they are 21 years old or marry. My principal consideration now is the welfare
of my children Cornelia Catherine Chandler who was born September 22 1873, and Obediah
Greene Chandler who was born June 6 1875, my will is that my uncle T. G. Strickland
take said children and raise and keep them until they are respectively 21 years
old, and that he have the same power over them as I have. In short, I appoint said
T. G. Strickland guardian of the person and property of both said children, with
power to name his successor. All the remainder of my property including cash claims,
classes in action, inheritable rights, etc, I give to T. G. Strickland and his heirs
absolutely. I dont make this disposition of my property to cut out my own
children in favor of a stranger, but because all I have will in no wise compensate
said T. G. Strickland for the attention of himself and family to me and my child
Cornelia since we have been sick at his house, much less do so after paying my debts.
I desire that my executor make no returns to the Ordinary nor have any inventory
of my property. Executor: my friend and uncle T. G. Strickland. Signed: Mary O.
(x) Chandler. Witness: C. B. Strickland, B. C. Chandler, Jane Freeman, Jno. F. Strickland.
Recd 2 Feb 1885
Page 359 ~ Martin Rowe
25 Aug 1884
To my wife Jincey
Rowe, the tract of land on which I now reside containing 133 acres adjoining lands
of J. H. White, Robert Russell and W. H. McCurdys estate, he being deceased,
and all of my personal property of every kind, including my notes and accounts,
for and during her natural life and at her death to be equally divided between my
two sons Stephen Rowe and James P. Rowe, they being deceased, I desire that one
half go to the children of Stephen Rowe and one half to the children of James P.
Rowe. Executrix: my wife Jincey Rowe. Signed: Martin Rowe. Witness: Josiah H. White,
William L. White, Emma W. (x) White. Recd 6 Jul 1885.
Page 362 ~ Isaac David
13 Jul 1880
If my beloved wife
shall be in life at my death, she have one bed and furniture such as she may choose.
After my death, all the property that I may die possessed of be sold and equally
divided between my nephews Morastat David, Isaac David, William G. David and Jonathon
David, and Jno. M. Bruce, share and share alike, with this exception; if Jonathon
David receives the $800 willed to him by his father, then he is to receive nothing
from me by this will. Executor: my nephew William G. David. Signed: Isaac (x) David.
Witness: J. M. Skinner, J. E. Lorkon, J. McElhannon. [No recording date]
Page 364 ~ Jacob L. Brewer
25 Jan 1886
To my wife Sarah
E. Brewer, 113 acres of land in Madison and Franklin Counties adjoining the land
of Sarah C. Berryman on the east, John Osborn on the south, and others; and also
60 acres in Madison County adjoining lands of John G. Fouler on the west, Garner
Dorr on the north and others; for her natural life, except she should marry then
the above described property to be given to my oldest son Silas J. Brewer and his
heirs. 38 acres of land off of the 113 acre tract then I give to my son Thomas T.
Brewer and to his heirs; 38 acres of land off of the 113 acre tract I give to my
daughter Esther D. Brewer and her heirs; 38 acres of land of off the 113 acre tract
to my daughter Mary J. Brewer and her heirs; 30 acres of land off of the 60 acre
tract I give to my heir yet to be born, and to its heirs 30 acres off of the 60
acre tract. Executrix: my wife Sarah E. Brewer. Signed: Jacob L. Brewer. Witness:
James W. (x) Fouler, Silas M. Scarborough, Jno. A. Berryman. Recd 8 May 1886
Page 368 ~ Barthena C. Chandler
7 Apr 1886
I will and
bequeath the guardianship of my seven minor children to Lewis M. Chandler, my brother
in law, and I appoint him guardian as aforesaid. All my property to my seven minor
children, Martha A. M. R. D. Chandler, Thomas A. Chandler, Stephen L. Chandler,
Allen C. Chandler, Bethina T. C. Chandler, John F. Chandler and Samuel W. Chandler,
and to the said L. M. Chandler in trust for the benefit of my said children. It
is my will that immediately after my death, the said L. M. Chandler take charge
of my children and property, manage the same as he thinks best, give my children
such education as my means and their labor will authorize, and if there is any property
left when my youngest child becomes 21 years of age, it is my will that such remainder
be equally divided between my children. Executor: Lewis M. Chandler, my brother
in law and by occupation a farmer. Signed: at my home near Planter, Bethena C. Chandler.
Witness: Dawson Williams, J. Young Williams, Mary E. Hardman. Recd 8 May 1886
Page 372 ~ Letty Brannon
14 Jul 1881
To my beloved daughter
Jane Brannon (who is afflicted and unable to support herself), for and during her
natural life, and at her death to her child or children, should she have any, if
not, to dispose of as she thinks proper, all my property both real and personal,
also all the claims, legacies, interest and ----- in action belonging to me. Executrix:
my daughter Jane Brannon. Signed: Letty Brannon. Witness: W. H. Stone, Hubbard H.
Hampton, Edmund E. Stone. Recd 10 Jun 1886
Page 376 ~ Robert Williams
13 Mar 1884
To my children,
to wit, E. H. Davis, R. G. Williams, Z. T. Williams, Wm. M. Williams, L. L. Williams
and N. G. Tillman, and my two grandchildren Robert Chandler and Elizabeth Chandler,
children of my deceased daughter N. G. Chandler, my entire estate both real and
personal, share and share alike. To my daughter, E. H. Davis, her part of the estate
for and during her natural life, then to her three children, to wit, R. M. Davis,
J. M. Davis and Fannie Pittman. To my grandchildren Robert Chandler and Elizabeth
Chandler, the part devised to them to my son L. L. Williams in trust until they
arrive at majority. Executor: my son L. L. Chandler. Signed: Robert (X) Williams.
Signed: M. D. L. Pittman, W. M. Brooks, S. M. Chandler. Recd 2 May 1887
Page 378 ~ James Jenkins
13 May 1882
To my beloved wife
Harriett Jenkins, for and during her natural life or widowhood, my home place containing
169 acres on the waters of the double branches known as the Lewis G. Smith place,
adjoining John Lane, Robert J. Sorrells and others. I also give my wife during her
lifetime or widowhood all of my other property, to wit, stock of all kinds, household
and kitchen furniture, and all provision of every kind, and if a crop be on hand,
to have the whole of it for the use of my said wife and three minor children. At
the death or marriage of my wife, all my property to go to my three last children
by my present wife Harriett Jenkins, to wit, Adam V. Jenkins, James M. Jenkins,
Thelitia W. Jenkins. To my six children by my first wife, the remainder of my estate,
to wit, Elias P. Jenkins, Elizabeth Davis, Susan Cunningham, Mary Ann Burden, Jane
Ginn and Cornelia Owen share and share alike the remainder of my estate,
which consists of money matters. Executors: my sons Elias P. Jenkins and Adam V.
Jenkins. Signed: James Jenkins. Witness: Rufus M. Mironey, James P. Hall, Easton
L. Hulme. Recd 2 May 1887
Page 381 ~ John N. Montgomery
27 Mar 1885
Clarke County,
GA: I desire that my body be buried by the side of my first wife and that
my executors erect a tombstone over my grave worth $200. All my estate, real, personal
and mixed shall be sold after advertising same in the newspaper published at Danielsville
and one of the newspapers published in Athens, and reduce my entire estate to cash.
To each of my daughters, Cornelia Caroline Deadwyler and Martha Evalula Goss, the
sum of $2000, to be paid to each of them before any division of my estate should
take place, to make them equal with what I have heretofore given my other children.
J. P. Deadwyler and his wife Cornelia are running my farm and business and I am
giving them one third of the net profit of my farm, I paying the taxes, furnishing
the land, mules, wagons and funding the stock, which is too much, as I did give
my son only one fourth part of the net profits but I have done that for the
reason that I have not given my daughter Cornelia C. $2000 during my life, and I
have given her and her husband that advantage to compensate them for the loss of
the interest on said legacy during my lifetime. I have heretofore given to my children
property and money to the amount and value of the sums as follows, to wit, James
H. Montgomery the sum of $2412, to Calvin L. Montgomery the sum of $3000, William
W. Montgomery the sum of $3000, to John L. Montgomery the sum of $2022, to Edward
W. Montgomery the sum of $1500, Cornelia Caroline Deadwyler the sum of $200 and
by this will the additional sum of $2000, and to Martha Evalula Goss the sum of
$200 and by this will the additional sum of $2000; and I desire that all of my children
be made equal, share and share alike. After paying the legacies specified, the balance
of money and estate shall be equally divided between Isham H. Goss as trustee of
John L. Montgomery and his children, and Isham H. Goss as the trustee of the children
of my son James H. Montgomery, to wit, Addie Ora, Wortie H. Montgomery and his infant
daughter three weeks old, and all of the balance of my children who may be living
at the time of my death and the representatives of those who may be dead. The interest,
profits and income alone of all the property which has been given to my children
(except the shares of John L. Montgomery and the children of James H. Montgomery,
which is hereinafter provided for) shall go to them to be held and enjoyed by them
during their natural lives only, and the corpus of said property shall not be spent
by any children, and after their deaths the corpus of said property shall be equally
divided between their children. The part of my estate which shall fall to Isham
H. Goss as trustee for my son John L. Montgomery and his children shall be vested
in and held by Isham H. Goss in trust for the following purposes, to wit
to purchase or invest in property, the rents, issues and profits of said property
to be paid over annually to my son John L. Montgomery during his life, and at his
death the corpus of said property shall be turned over to the children of John L.
Montgmoery. The part of my estate which shall fall to Isham H. Goss as trustee of
the children of my son James H. Montgomery, to wit, Addie Ora, Wortie, Maud and
his infant daughter, shall be invested in property and not spent; and at their arrival
at 21 years of age or marriage, he shall pay them their share. Executors: Joseph
P. Deadwyler, William W. Montgomery, Isham H. Goss and C. L. Montgomery. Signed:
J. N. Montgomery. Witness: S. C. Dobbs, G. W. Mason, C. B. Burch.
Codicil: Madison
County, 10 Nov 1886: Said will makes Isham H. Goss alone trustee for John L. Montgomery
and children; owing to the uncertainty of life, I nominate and appoint Calvin L.
Montgomery of Floyd County co-executor with full and equal power to act in conformity
as set forth in item 8. Since writing the above will, debts to a large amount against
the said John L. Montgomery and wife, unknown to me at the time, have been presented.
Seeing the land I gave him could be -----, I assumed the payment of such claims,
amounting to $2120, took the said John L. Montgomerys note for the above amount,
drawing out interest, took a deed on land, deeded it to his children at the death
of the said John L. Montgomery, giving him a life interest in same. The above note
to be counted and accepted, including interest, as an advance in a final division
of my estate. At my death, in conformity of item 5 in my will, and after each one
has received the amount, share and share alike, each and every legatee, should there
be any left remaining of my estate, after the said John L. Montgomery accounts for
said note and other advances that may be charged him, said amount to be held in
trust by Isham H. Goss and Calvin L. Montgomery in trust for the said J. L. Montgomery
and children now living and hereafter born. Item 8 of my will makes Isham H. Goss
alone trustee for the children of James H. Montgmoery, Addie Ora Williams, Cora,
Wortie Lu, Maud and Paulina. Owing to the uncertainty of life I hereby appoint Lu
J. Williams as co-executor to act with Isham H. Goss, each equally empowered to
carry out item 9 of my will, except that part that says Isham H. Goss shall pay
each legatee as they marry or become of age, without any restriction. I will that
item 7 of my will be carried out and applied to the children of James H. Montgomery
was clearly an oversight not including them in item 7, saying the body or corpus
or principal must not be spent, only the interest or income can be used, and as
each one becomes of age or marries, Isham H. Goss and L. J. Williams must assist
the husband of each one, including Addie Ora, in selecting real estate or some permanent
valuable investment. Signed: J. N. Mountgomery. Witness: C. A. Wilder, Jos. McWhorter,
R. L. Wilder, J. P. Parker. Recd 12 Aug 1887
Page 390 ~ Rufus M. Mironey
6 May 1887
To my beloved
wife Martha M. Mironey during her life, one half of the household and kitchen furniture
I am possessed of. To my son James M. Mironey, the remainder of my estate both real
and personal. My said son to support myself and my wife during our natural lives
in a cheap and plain manner from this time and he is to have all the proceeds of
the former, provided he performs the above request in good faith. Executor: my son
James M. Mironey. Signed: Rufus M. Mironey. Witness: F. M. Skinner, H. C. Skinner,
John M. Skinner, W. P. Skinner. Recd 8 Sept 1887
Page 392 ~ Malinda Moore
10 Sept 1886
To my daughter
Sarah M. Rice and her children, 50 of land off my place that I now live on, containing
200 acres, for the express purpose of paying for the support of myself up to the
present time and for my future support, or so much as will be necessary for that
purpose. To my daughter Harriet Moore, the remainder of my land during her natural
life. At the death of my daughter Harriet, said land to be the property of my two
daughters Sarah M. Rice and her children, and Mary L. Patton and her children. All
my household and kitchen furniture go to my daughter Harriet, with the exception
of Mary L. Patton to have one double wove counterpane and one set of pillow slips.
Also my daughter Sarah M. Rice to have one doublewove counterpane and one set of
pillow slips. My children to make arrangements to pay my doctor. Executor: my son
in law, George L. Rice. Signed: Malinda (x) Moore. Witness: R. T. McGinnis, J. C.
Campbell, A. C. Campbell. Recd 6 Apr 1888.
Page 394 ~ Charles L. Sorrells
24 Aug 1888
My wife Mary
E. Sorrells shall have dower or a childs portion of my property in lieu thereof.
I will and desire that Richard H. Sorrells, William C. Sorrells and Robert P. Sorrells,
to whom I have already given property as follows, to wit, to Richard H. Sorrells,
$1000, being land of that value; to William C. Sorrells, $800, being land to the
amount of $550 and the balance money with which to pay his expenses while attending
a commercial school at Baltimore; to Robert P. Sorrells, $500 with which to pay
his expenses while preparing himself for the practice of medicine; shall receive
nothing of my executor until each and all of my beloved children, to wit, James
M. Sorrells, Samuel H. Sorrells, Harriet P. Sorrells, Britton S. Sorrells, Charles
L. Sorrells Jr., Susan C. Matthews, formerly Susan C. Sorrells, and Mary B. L. Sorrells
shall have received as much of my property as I have already advanced Richard, William
and Robert P. Sorrells. After which the remainder of my property shall be equally
divided between all my children. Executor: the person whomsoever may be the qualified
clerk of the Superior Court of Madison County, Georgia at the time of my death.
Signed: Charles L. Sorrells. Witness: Stephen C. OKelly, J. E. Gordon, R.
H. Kinnebrew. Recd 10 Nov 1888.
Page 397 ~ Samuel David
8 Dec 1887
Mine and my wifes
grave to be fixed up in a decent and creditable manner. To my son Isaac David and
wife, for their valuable services and kindness shown and rendered unto my wife during
her last illness, and unto myself, and to be rendered by the said David and wife
during the balance of my life, all my property both real and personal, the Realty
consisting of 100 acres of land where I now live adjoining J. P. Gholston, T. W.
Bruce, Coil, the peronalty consisting of 2 horses and cattle and household and kitchen
furniture and any and all debts owing to me by anyone. Executor: my son Isaac David.
Signed: Samuel (x) David. Witness: John E. Gordon, W. H. Bruce, Thomas W. Bruce.
Recd 10 Nov 1888.
Page 399 ~ James M. Sailors, Sr.
3 Sept 1887
To my wife
Selina L. Sailors, $200 in cash and all she brought here at the time of intermarriage
to me, and half the bed clothing that she has made since our marriage. All my property
to be sold and all my children to whom I have not made advancements first be made
equal as near as possible to whom I have made advancements as marked in Exhibit
A hereunto annexed. After my children are made equal in advancements, the remainder
to be equally divided between all my children. Executor: William L. Smith. Signed:
James M. Sailors, Sr. Witness: Stephen P. Hawks, Jonah E. Hawks, W. M. Patton.
Exhibit Marked A: James M. Sailors Advancements made his children:
Elizabeth A. Smith one cow and calf ($20), one bed & furniture and house
furnishing goods ($50), cash ($100). Wm. S. Sailors one horse, bridle &
saddle ($100), one cow & calf ($20), one bed & furniture and house furnishing
goods ($30), cash ($100). Ava A. Sailors one bed & furniture ($20), cash
in lieu of cow & calf ($50). Susan A. Sailors one cow & calf ($20),
one bed & furniture and house furnishing goods ($30). C. C. Sailors one
horse, bridle and saddle ($100), one cow & calf ($20), one bed, furniture and
house furnishing goods ($30). S. E. M. A. C. Williams one cow & calf
($20), one bed & furniture and house furnishing goods ($30). M. L. C. Chandler
one cow & calf ($20), one bed & furniture and house furnishing goods ($30).
J. A. Smith one cow & calf ($20), one bed, furniture and house furnishing
goods ($30). J. M. Sailors Jr. one horse, bridle and saddle ($100), one bed &
furniture & house furnishing goods ($30), cow & calf ($20). B. H. Sailors
one cow & calf ($20), horse, bridle,saddle ($100), bed, furniture, house furnishing
goods ($30). Recd 13 Jan 1889.
Page 402 ~ Celia Ginn
24 Apr 1888
To my daughter Artimissa
Ginn, all my household and kitchen furniture except one bed and a proper amount
of bedding herefore. To my granddaughter Susan Ophelia Ginn, daughter of Artimissa
Ginn, the bed and bedding excepted above. To my children by my first marriage, viz,
Henry McDuff, Narcissa Strickland, wife of Allen Strickland, Mary Johnson, wife
of David A. Johnson, and to my granddaughter Mary McDuff, daughter of my son John
McDuff who is now deceased, the sum of one dollar each. My land, the place whereon
I now and have lived for years, said land having been purchased with my money or
exchanged for a tract of land I owned, to be sold, the proceeds thereof be equally
divided, share and share alike, unto my daughter Letty Ellen Phillips, wife of William
Phillips, my daughter Pop Berryman, wife of Marion Berryman, and my son Stephen
A. Ginn and my daughter Artimissa Ginn. Executor: my son Stephen A. Ginn. Signed:
Celia Ginn. Witness: Jas. J. Bond, Patrick H. Bowen, Bolin E. Bryant, J. B. Cunningham.
Recd 8 Feb 1889.
Page 405 ~ Bida Sims
15 Jan 1873
To my nephew Wiley I.
Meadows all the tract of land that I now live on. To sister Julia Cochran and Martha
E. Bolton, all my wearing apparel, table cloths and towels to be equally divided
between them. To Mary Bolton, daughter of James L. Bolton, one feather bed, bedstead
and furniture. All the balance of my estate to be divided into four equal shares,
one share to sister Julia Cochran, one share to Martha E. Bolton to her and the
heirs of her body, one share to brother Bennet Sims, one share to my nephew Wiley
I. Meadows. Executors: Bennett Sims and Wiley I. Meadows. Signed: Bida Sims. Witness:
John M. Sims, Jacob Eberhart, Wm. Cannis (x) Bridges. Recd 10 Oct 1889
Page 408 ~ Cynthia Sanders
3 Sept 1889
I want my great
niece and nephew, M. S. Glenn and R. E. Glenn, who have agreed to take care of me
during the balance of my natural life, to be paid for their trouble out of what
I have, and then if there is anything left, I want it divided among Martha Glenn,
wife of John E. Glenn, deceased, Lizzie Bolton, Tishsa Key, Cynthia Landers, as
follows: to Martha Glenn, one feather bed, bolster and pillows. To Lizzie Bolton,
Tishia Key and Cynthia Landers I want to have five dollars and two quilts a piece,
and if there is anything left after the above division, I want M. S. Glenn and R.
E. Glenn to have it. Executors: M. S. Glenn and R. E. Glenn. Signed: Cynthia Sanders.
Witness: O. P. Griffith, C. R. E. Hitchcock, T. G. Hitchcock. Recd 5 May 1890
Page 410 ~ Bennett W. Brown
21 May 1886
My son Benjamin
T. Brown, for the kindness and favors rendered to myself and family since he became
of age, to have extra and above the rest of my children at the time of my death
one mule worth $150 or the equivalent in money. To my wife Susan A., the home whereon
I live containing 157 acres during her natural life for the purpose of her support
and comfort in life, also in like manner all of my personal property. At the death
of my wife, the property to be sold and equally divided between all of my children
with this proviso included, that my daughter Elizabeth Short, for reasons not necessary
here to mention, has become unfriendly to myself and family. Now should she remain
with the same feeling toward me and family, which bad and unchildlike feeling I
hope and feel that she will not retain, but if the said daughter remains stubborn
and unyielding in her manner and treatment toward us, then I direct that the said
Elizabeth have no part of my estate whatever otherwise to inherit equal with
the rest regretting very much having this distinction to make with any of
my children, loving them all alike. Executrix: my wife Susan A. Signed: Bennett
W. Brown. Witness: Neal Chandler, G. D. McGinnis, R. T. McGinnis. Recd 5 May
1890
Page 412 ~ Thomas W. Dean, Sr.
9 Sept 1889
To my two
sons, Willis H. Dean and Charles W. Dean all of my stock of horses, cows, and stock
of all kinds, also all plantation tools and mechanical tools. They are to pay all
my debts. My said sons should support and take care of my minor children after my
death until they become of age. To my wife Sarah A. Dean, all of my household and
kitchen furniture of every kind for and during her natural life, and after her death
what is left to be equally divided between my children as follows, to wit, Anna
A. Bond, Adeline K. McGarity, Nancy J. Dean, Arminta L. L. James and Robert L. Dean,
Susan F. Dean, Cora E. Dean, Bessie Williams, Babe Dean, Evie Dean. Executor: my
sons Willis H. Dean and Francis G. McGarity. Signed: Thomas W. Dean Sr. Witness:
John H. Bond, M. L. Shewer, Jos. H. Bond, John M. Skinner. Recd 2 Jun 1890.
Page 418 ~ J. D. Power
30 Apr 1887
My beloved wife Mary
E. Power to have my entire estate, real and personal, in her own hand and continue
to sell and trade any surplus the same as I have done during my life, during her
life or widowhood. If my wife should marry, then for her to have 300 acres of land
so as to include my dwelling house and improvements, for her life, and after her
death be equally divided between my heirs. Also if my wife should marry, for her
to have $500 in money or property for her to dispose of as she sees proper. My unmarried
children to be made equal as they marry or become 21 years of age with my two daughters
that is already married. I will and desire that my wife Mary E. Power give to my
eight children $500 in money to each child as they become 21 years of age, and if
my wife should fail to have the sum of $500 on hand she is required to give them
a due note against my estate for the said sum. After the death of my wife or marriage,
all my entire land be laid off in eight lots, if my wife Mary should die my widow,
and each lot valued and numbered, so as each one of my eight children will get a
lot of land commencing at the oldest in rotation to the youngest drawing. And [if]
my wife Mary E. Power should marry, then the remainder of my land outside of what
I have given her be laid off to my eight children as aforesaid for their own property.
And as the lots of land may differ in value, each one to be made equal in money
out of my estate. All of my property not disposed of in this will be equally divided
between my eight children after the death of my wife or marriage. My three youngest
children, namely, Charley, Clara and Allen, be sent to school and educated. Executors:
my wife Mary E. Power and my friend S. P. Power. Signed: J. D. Power. Witness: M.
F. Arnold, F. E. Power, J. V. Moore, J. P. Recd 3 Nov 1890.
Page 422 ~ Pleasant Moon
27 Mar 1889
Over my grave I
wish a decent house of good material, well painted, to be erected; I direct that
my beloved wife Susan E. Moon be buried in like decent manner and her grave to be
covered in with a house in the same manner, provided she dies my widow. To my daughter
Olivia M. B. David, 6 1/2 shares of Georgia RR Stock valued at $1000. If she wishes,
she may have the right to pay my wife $75 and have 7 shares of Georgia RR Stock,
for which she shall pay to my wife during her life or widowhood between 1% - 3%
per annum. Said shares to remain in my wifes possession for one year after
my death; if my wife sees proper, she may give up said property earlier. To my son
Johnathan D. Moon, 163 acres of the Jarrett land valued at $1000, being all of the
Jarrett land except 55 acres near the cross roads deeded to the A&C RR should
road be built, for which my son shall pay my wife 1% per annum. To my daughter Susan
E. Mitchell, a part of the Peyton tract of land supposed to be 65 acres valued at
$380; also 74 acres known as the Cooper tract, where she now resides, valued at
$350; also $270 of her indebtedness to me, making a total of $1000. The said land
to remain in my wifes care, and after her death my executor to make title
to my daughter, but my daughter is to have said land for a home during my wifes
lifetime, my daughter to pay her 1% - 3% annum. To my two granddaughters Susan Hester
Cooper and Elizabeth Lillian David, a part of the home place where I now live, embracing
my present residence and out buildings, supposing to contain 200 acres; also a portion
of the Peyton tract, supposed to contain 200 acres, valued at $1000. I direct that
they take possession of said lands after the death of my wife, or at any time before
her death she sees proper. If in my wifes lifetime, they shall pay to her
1% - 3% per annum. The aforesaid bequest is made to my granddaughters with the restriction
distinctly and positively understood and embraced that they nor either of them shall
not permit Henry C. David to live with them at any time on said lands in any capacity,
neither as a laborer, boarder, nor as a visitor not exceeding 48 hours, nor shall
either of them employ Henry C. David in any way on said lands nor allow him to handle
any of the proceeds arising from the land, nor shall they ever allow him to any
friends property that I may leave them
and if they do allow the said Henry
David to live with them, or wash, starch, or iron or sew shirts or any restriction
named above while living on the land, then my executors to sell off a corner of
the land to pay $5.00 every time either of my granddaughters disobeys the restrictions
and that my executors have the said sum $5.00 for their own use and in case my executors
should fail to see after the same, then any person may see after the same and receive
the said sum for their trouble, and neither shall the said Henry C. David live on
the lands I give to my wife
The land I give to my granddaughters Susan Hester
Cooper and Elizabeth Lillian David I hereby will to them for a permanent home during
their lifetime and then to their children, if any. If either should die, then half
of the land to go to their husband if living and the other half to revert back to
my estate. Neither of them shall have the right to sell or trade said lands except
to purchase other real estate
they shall not have the right to sell or trade
a part of the land under five years after the death of my wife Susan E. Moon and
only then to reinvest in real estate with the same restrictions concerning Henry
C. David. I hereby reserve for my wife full control and access to my room and bedroom
adjoining and dining room and stove room and also wheat room upstairs and any of
the outbuildings and well and garden during her lifetime or widowhood and my granddaughters
shall not have the right to rent out the dwelling houses to any other person
either one has the right to rent or sell or rent their portion of the plantation
to one another if they see proper
if neither one wishes not to live in said
house, then they have the right to rent out to any other person and divide the proceeds.
To my wife Susan E. Moon, all of the money notes and accounts, all of my household &
kitchen furniture, buggy, wagon and stock of all kinds and all the land not herein
before described consisting of the same tract and some other lands lying next to
the land of Mary Moon and my wild lands
my sack corn wheat and all other property
not otherwise disposed of in this will including the proceeds of fifty five acres
of the Jarrell land and six and one half shares of Ga. R.R. stock, and I give her
full power to sell or dispose of any or all of the property
likewise bequeath
to my wife not less than one nor more than three per cent per annum as described
on all the property bequeathed to my heirs
at her discretion. I give my wife
Susan E. Moon power and privilege to sell one half of Ga. R.R. stock to my daughter
Olivia M. B. David at any time after my death. All my money, whether it be in Athens
or elsewhere, be turned over to my wife during her lifetime. If my wife should die
or marry, all money to be turned over to my executor and make an equal distribution
between legal heirs, Viz, Olivia M. B. David, Jonathan D. Moon, Susan E. Mitchell,
Susan Hester Cooper and Elizabeth Lillian David, the last two shall have one fourth
divided between them. To my wife Susan E. Moon six shares of Ga. R.R. stock and
also the one half share provided she dont sell it, the proceeds of the dividends
to her own proper use during her lifetime married or single. My wife shall not give
or loan any money during any year to exceed ten dollars without the consent of my
executors stating that the debtor is perfectly solvent. If at the time of my death
or the death of my wife Susan E. Mitchell should be indebted to me or my wife the
same shall stand against her as cash and shall account for the same in final settlement
and if any of my legal heirs should owe me or my wife any amount at the time of
our deaths the property herein named that I gave to each of them shall stand good
for the amount, and if they should owe me any debt at my death if they will renew
their notes with my wife the interest may run at 4% per annum and must pay part
of debt yearly or as my wife demands. There shall be no appraisement of my estate
until after the death of my wife, and my executors help my wife manage the property
I leave her. My legatees pay their own expenses that may accrue in receiving such
property as I give them, and there shall be no commission paid to my executors in
settling up my estate. At the death of my wife, provided she dies my widow, my executors
to see that my beloved wife is buried in a metallic coffin and a good house placed
over her grave and well painted and if there is not sufficient means then my executors
to sell enough of the Ga. R.R. stock to pay for the same. Executors: My wife Susan
E. Moon, my son Jonathon D. Moon, and my friends John M. David and Isac V. Moore.
Signed Pleasant Moon. Witnesses: J. I. Parham, J. L. Moon, S. P. Power, I. V. Moore,
J.P.
P.S. I will and desire if after the death of my wife Susan E. Moon if any
thing be left after the burial expenses paid for James P. Moon to have $10 son of
Jonathon D. Moon also Geo. P. David the son of Olivia M. B. David and after this
an equal division be made with my heirs above named and this P.S. not to the above.
Recd 2 Mar 1891
Page 439 ~ George L. Rice
14 May 1890
To my son John
H. Rice, the 100 acres of land he now lives on and 80 acres additional to be cut
off on the east end next to Burroughs mill of a lot of land containing 113
acres recently on the 15th day of January 1890 surveyed and featured
by Dawson Williams free from all charge or limitation whatever to his own proper
use, benefit and behoof. To my daughter Nancy E. Mercier now the wife of Henry F.
Mercier, the 100 acres more or less of land she now lives on free from all charge
or limitation whatever to her own proper use benefit and behoof. To my daughter
Martha E. Burroughs, now the wife of T. S. Burroughs, the 100 acres more or less
of land she now lives on free from all charge or limitations whatever to her own
proper use benefit and behoof. To my daughter Amanda J. Hardman now the wife of
Jospeh H. Hardman, in addition to $240 she has already received, 43 acres of land
more or less on Powder Mill Creek and known as Powder Mill tract, free from all
charge or limitations whatever to her own proper use benefit and behoof. To my daughter
Sarah F. Roggers now the wife of T. W. S. Roggers, $500 free from all charge and
limitations whatever to her own proper use benefit and behoof. My remaining property
to my beloved wife Sarah M. Rice and my four youngest minor sons, to wit, Allen
P. Rice, Joseph L. Rice, George F. Rice and William B. Rice, equally. The bequest
to my wife is in lieu of her whole dower
the property shall remain as it is
until my youngest son shall attain the age of 21 years, then to be equally divided
between my wife and four youngest sons. Executors: My sons Jno. H. and Allen P.
Rice and my wife Sarah M. Rice. Signed: Geo. L. Rice. Witness: Henry W. White, Wm.
L. Smith, Dawson Williams. Recd 4 May 1891.
Page 442 ~ Willis Gunnells
13 Apr 1891
To my wife Elinor
Gunnells during her natural life or widowhood one third of the tract of land where
on I now live including the dwelling and out buildings and at her death said land
to revert to my estate. The remainder of my estate be equally divided, share and
share alike, between my wife Elinor and my five daughters, to wit, Virginia A. Saylors,
Octavia Decker, Elizabeth Decker, Mary Tolbert, Francis Bruce, and my son W. W.
Gunnells. The land given my wife in the 2nd item I desire to revert back
to my estate at the death of said wife and then to be sold and equally divided among
my said children above named. Executor: S. C. OKelley. Signed: Willis (x)
Gunnells. Witness: W. Brewery, W. H. Long, J. Long. Recd 4 May 1891.
Page 444 ~ Rufus M. Mironey
9 May 1887
To my beloved
wife Martha M. Meroney during her life one half of the household and kitchen furniture
I am possessed of. To my son James M. Mironey the remainder of my estate both real
and personal. After paying of my debts, my son James M. Meroney is to support myself
and wife during our natural lives in a cheap and plain manner from this time and
he is to have all the proceeds of the farm provided he performs the above request
in good faith. Executor: my son James M. Mironey. Signed: Rufus M. Mironey. Witness:
John M. Skinner, W. P. Skinner, F. M. Skinner, H. C. Skinner. Recd 1 June
1891.
Page 446 ~ Rhoda Shields
12 Dec 1890
I make the following
disposition of the one half of the estate left by husband Little B. Shields to dispose
of as I saw proper. I give to W. G. Shields children one 5th of
the one half of the said estate consisting in real estate and personal property.
I give to Archer Shorts children one 5th of the one half of said
estate. I give to Mary Thomas children one 5th of the one half
of said estate. I give to Eliza Ann Busbins children one 5th of
the one half of said estate. I give to John M. Shorts children W. B. Short,
Mary E. Perry, and also the son of the wife of W. B. Short, L. E. Short, one 5th
of the said estate, the said L. E. Short to share equal in the one 5th
of the estate with the said W. B. Short and Mary E. Perry. Executor: W. L. B. Shields.
Signed: Roda Shields. Witness: L. E. Shields, J. E. Shields, J. F. Payne. Recd
4 Par 1892.
Page 448 ~ Robert P. Griffeth
1 Apr 1885
To my beloved
wife Mary A. Griffeth the one half of my estate both real and personal that I may
died possessed of. To my daughter Susan E. Henry the remaining half of my estate
both real and personal at my death and at the death of my daughter Susan E. Henry,
the property bequeathed to her by me be equally divided among all my said daughters
children. I appoint Charles B. Henry, husband of my said daughter Susan E. Henry,
trustee to manage said property for the benefit of my said daughter and her children.
Executors: My wife Mary A. Griffeth and my brother in law Albert L. Mitchell. Signed:
Robert P. Griffeth. Witness: G. T. Johnson, E. P. Eberhart, R. J. Johnson. Recd
6 Apr 1892.
Codicil: (Change of Executors) I hereby constitute & appoint
my beloved wife Mary A. Griffeth and my friend and nephew Geo. O. Griffeth my executors.
20 Oct 1885.
Page 451 ~ Robert T. Russell
7 Apr 1892
To my brother
in law David Wynn $50 in money. To my nephew John Russell $50 in money. To my four
beloved sisters, to wit, Margaret E., Mary A., Nancy H. and Sarah S. Russel the
remainder of my entire estate both real and personal for them to namely dispose
of in any way that they deem proper without making any yearly returns or expenses
of the same. Signed: Robt. T. Russell. Witness: I. V. Moore, J. G. Deadwyler, J.
B. Eberhart. Recd 1 Aug 1892
Page 453 ~ J. B. Threlkeld
20 May 1891
Having previously
disposed of my real estate by deed in which I gave my beloved wife no part, now
therefore in order to provide for my beloved wife Louisa E. I make this my last
will and testament as follows. I desire that my body be buried at Lystra Church.
To my wife Louisa E. all the property of every description that I may die possessed
of, the same to be used by her for a support during her natural life with privilege
to sell any or all of it a she may need it in supplying provisions, nursing or medical
attention during her natural life. After the death of my wife, that what is left
be sold and burial expenses of my beloved wife, physician bills, &c be paid
then a note that I have this day signed and given to my son Oliver B. Threlkeld
be paid, after which if any remains that my son James G. be given $25 and Tully
M. be paid a like sum of $25 then the remainder if any to go to my beloved daughter
Louisa E. Moore. Executor: my beloved son Oliver B. Threlkeld. Signed: J. B. (x)
Threlkeld. Witness: Stephen C. OKelly, G. W. David, J. F. L. Bond. Recd
3 Oct 1892.
Page 455 ~ Samuel H. Ware
17 Dec 1884
To my beloved wife
Sarah F. Ware whatever of personal property of every description, money, notes due,
accounts that I may die possessed of, charged first with paying the debts due by
me
to be the property of my wife to dispose of and enjoy as she may like.
To my wife Sarah F. Ware all of my real estate to have and hold during her natural
life. After the death of my wife, to my three children, to wit, Mary H. White wife
of William W. White, Susan Ellen White wife of Jacob B. White, and my son Robert
Lee Ware, all of the real estate if they are in life, if not in life, then to their
children. Executors: My beloved wife Sarah F. Ware and my son Robert Lee Ware. Signed:
Samuel H. Ware. Witness: E. P. Eberhart, J. W. Williams, H. T. Thompson, S. C. OKelly,
CSC. Recd 5 Apr 1893.
Page 458 ~ Augustus G. Carrington
25 Sept 1890
To my
beloved wife Martha A. Carrington during her natural life the control of my estate,
personal and real, that I die possessed of and at her death all my estate be sold
and equally divided between all of my children, to wit, Wallace(?) A. Carrington,
Amanda King, Mary Simmons, Elizabeth Bridges, Sarah Compton, Martha Ridgway. Whatever
interest my daughter Martha Ridgway receives from my estate shall never be subject
to the control of her husband James L. Ridgway and shall be the property of the
said Martha Ridgway and her children. Executors: My son W. A. Carrington. Signed:
A. G. Carrington. Witness: John E. Gorden, Stephen C. OKelly, G. H. Daniel.
Recd 9 Jun 1893.
Page 460 ~ Margaret E. Russell
31 Oct 1892
All my property
at my death to go to my sisters Mary A. Russell, Nancy H. Russell and Sarah C. Russell
if they should be in life. If either of these should not be in life, then to such
of them as should be living. I desire that there shall be no administration on my
estate. Signed: Margaret E. (x) Russell. Witness: L. P. Eberhart, E. P. Eberhart,
L. B. Eberhart, J.P. Recd 8 Jul 1894.
Page 461 ~ Henry T. Evans
28 Mar 1894
To my wife Elizabeth
A. Evans all the real and personal property that I may own at the time of my death
to have and control as she thinks is to the best interest of herself and children
during her natural life and at her death the property divided equally between my
children. Should any of my children marry, they should receive enough from my estate
to make them [equal] with the amount given to my son James N. Evans, provided my
wife Elizabeth A. Evans feels able to give said amount without injury to herself
but in any event that all be made equal after the death of their mother before the
property is divided. Executors: my sons James D. and Henry S. Evans. Signed: Henry
T. Evans. Witness: W. S. Evans, C. W. Huff, W. D. Booth, D. P. Moon. Recd
10 May 1894.
Page 463 ~ Mary Johnson
21 Oct 1894
I desire that my
contract for the rent of the land from Wm. Nowell be strictly carried out, that
Juston Howard keep my mules and 1 waggon to cultivate said land for the remainder
of this year, and that my portion of the present crop of 1895 be placed to the payment
of my just debts. I desire that if I am not living that my house and lot in the
town of Comer be rented to the best advantage by me executor for the year 1895 and
the proceeds be placed to my just debts. To my faithful friend Elizabeth Jarrell,
wife of Jacob Jarrell, my house and lot in the town of Comer for services rendered
in waiting on me during my illness up to the present time, and upon the condition
that she continues to see after me and wait on me the remainder of my life, she
to take possession of said house and lot on the first day of January 1896. Executor:
my friend Dr. C. C. Nillid (?). Signed: Mary (x) Johnson. Witness: D. P. Moon, K.
D. Strickland, J. M. Jones. Recd 25 Nov 1894.
Page 465 ~ James E. Sanders
12 Sept 1894
To my beloved
wife Lucy Emaline my home place, that is the place whereon we now reside containing
about 127 acres, for and during her natural life, also the insurance policy I hold
in the New York Trust(?) life for $1000.00, the same to be at the absolute disposal
of my beloved wife Lucy Emaline. I will and bequeath to the custody and control
of my wife the following, to wit, my household and kitchen furniture, stock, horses,
cattle, hogs & goats, &c, also all my plantation tools consisting of buggies,
wagons, ploughs, hoes, rakes, &c, with the following instructions, to wit, that
each of my children, to wit, Willis S., Lou O., Myrtie P., James M., Lucy M. and
Carl have set apart to them when each one marries or becomes of age, one bed and
bedding complete, one cow & calf, or if either of the above named children desire
cash in lieu thereof, the equivalent of said articles in money. My executor to sell
the following property, to wit, the 100 acres given to me by my father when I married;
72 acres I bought, the Johnson land; 90 acres bought from my father H. T. Sanders;
40 acres bought of the Whitworth land; also my machinery consisting of Engine &
boiler, belts, pullies, gin feeder
&c, all to be sold for the purpose
of giving my children hereinafter named a good practical education such as is standard
in the colleges of our country, the same to be obtained as cheaply as possible,
Lou O., Myrtie P., James W., Lucy M. and Carl. To my youngest son Carl, my silver
watch to be delivered to him at my death. At the death of my wife Lucy Emaline,
all property not disposed of be sold by the other executor, to wit Willie S., and
equally divided amongst all my children, except the value of the watch willed to
Carl for which he is not to account. Executors: my wife Lucy Emaline and my son
Willis S. Sanders. Signed: James E. Sanders. Witness: R. H. Kinnebrew, L. B. Brooks,
Stephen C. OKelly. Recd 7 Jan 1895.
Page 468 ~ Angeline Strickland
5 Aug 1882
Jackson County:
My will is at and after my death that I be buried by the side of my husband Henry
Strickland. Magness A. Brooks, a son of my brother Loyd Brooks, have $200 to be
kept at lawful interest until he is 21 years old, he is only to use the interest
up to that time. I further will him my feather bed and under bed, one large double
wove ---- counterpane, one fine ---- Island shirt, one fine bed quilt with brown
stripes & lining, 2 pillows, one bolster. I will Loyd Brookes wife Sally
Brooks one feather bed. I will my brother John Brooks the balance of my estate.
Executor: Volentine H. Deadwyler. Signed: Angeline (x) Strickland. Witness: W. S.
Rogers, Jison (x) Adams, Josiah (x) Segraves. Recd 6 May 1895.
Page 470 ~ Thomas Jefferson Adams
26 May 1888
Being 41
years of age and of sound mind and memory
my body to be buried at Loar United
Congregational Church. My land, stock, notes, money and all other property be allowed
to remain in the hands of my wife Eliza Catherine Adams until my youngest child
becomes of age, at which time my whole estate must be sold and the proceeds divided
between my wife and body heirs, my wife receiving a childs portion. But should
my wife die before my youngest child becomes of legal age, my whole estate be sold
and the proceeds equally divided among my body heirs immediately upon each of them
becoming of age. Executrix: My wife Eliza Catherine Adams, but in case of her death,
my brother Alfred Hopkins Adams, my nephew John F. Davis, and if of legal age, my
son Early Wilbur Adams. Signed: Thomas J. Adams. Witness: R. H. Kinnebrew, J. T.
Johnson, J. C. Sanders. Recd 3 Jun 1895.
Page 472 ~ James H. McEuen
10 Nov 1894
To my wife Nancy
J. McEuen, all that tract of land where I now reside adjoining lands of John Caruth,
Sarah Caruth, Milton Caney and James M. Fouler, containing 178 1/2 acres, during
her natural life. When my wife shall have departed this life, said tract shall be
sold and the proceeds equally and impartially divided between my bodily heirs. Executor:
my son Harvey H. McEuen. Signed: J. H. McEuen. Witness: J. C. Tyner, Jonah Hill.
Recd 5 Aug 1895.
Page 474 ~ Emily E. Sexton
14 Apr 1896
To my husband
Miles A. Sexton all my real estate, consisting of 109 acres of land, until my youngest
daughter becomes 21 years of age. When my youngest daughter becomes 21 years of
age, said tract of land to be equally divided between my said husband and my children,
my said husband to take a childs part with the improvement. At the death of
my husband, his part of the land to go to my children. Executor: my brother Joseph
E. Bond. Signed: E. E. Sexton. Witness: T. R. Fitts, H. A. McEwen, J. E. Bond. Recd
6 Jul 1896.
Page 475 ~ Lou Disa Adams
17 Jun 1893
To my unmarried
daughter Martha Amanda Adams, 20 acre of land to be run off from the south west
corner of my land, one cow and calf, one bed and bedstead. To my eight children,
to wit, John T. Adams, Mary Lucinda Freeman, Sarah Elizabeth Fitzpatrick, Jessee
White Adams, Martha Amanda Adams, Kisi Catherine Burroughs, Emri Keller Adams, Susie
Porter Thomas, and the children of my dead daughter Louisa Francis Segraves, to
wit, William Calloway Segraves, Emri David Segraves, Samantha Elizabeth Segraves
all the remainder of my land consisting of 80 acres. At the death of my husband
John Adams the 80 acres of land to be sold and enough of the proceeds of the land
be appropriated to build a medium size box house on the 20 acres of land named in
the first item for the use of my daughter Martha Amanda Adams and the balance to
be equally divided between my 8 children and the children of my daughter Louisa
Francis Segraves to receive one share. The 20 acres shall be an extra bequest; my
daughter Martha Amanda Adams share equally with my other children in the division
of the 80 acres of land. All my land to remain just as it is until the death of
my husband. Executor: my son John T. Adams. Signed: Lou Disa (x) Adams. Witness:
Obediah W. T. Rogers, J. C. Segraves, Davison Williams. Recd 7 Sep 1896.
Page 477 ~ John M. David
16 Dec 1895
My executors to
sell or divide my perishable property not needed in the cultivation of their different
farms which I leave in their charge. One half acres be reserved on my father Peter
Davids old place including his family grave yard forever from sale or transfer,
likewise that one fourth acre at the west end of the dwelling I now reside in shall
be reserved forever for my family grave yard. Six hundred dollars be reserved for
the purpose of educating my son George P. David provided he has not received an
education before my death. Then after my burial expenses if any more on hand I want
it equally divided among my wife Olivia M. B. David and my three sons Otho David,
William H. David and George P. David & Susie David, Mary David. For love and
affection I have for my beloved wife Olivia M. B. David, one lot of land known as
my home at Paoli, GA containing 304 acres, all the houses and dwellings connected
with it or being upon it, also one lot known a the White place containing 234 1/2
acres, also 25 shares of Georgia Rail Road Stock, during her natural life for the
support of herself. If she should have any to dispose of I want it equally divided
among my five children. At the death of my wife, to land which I have given to her
be returned over to my three sons and not to be sold unless one or the other to
buy. The above named Rail Road Stock I want equally divided among all five of my
children at the death of my wife. Also to my wife, all that I have in my dwelling
house of beds, bedding & furniture, also kitchen furniture. Should she see proper
she can give to each child at my death as they become of age a bed and furniture
provided they have not received such before my death. The piano is Marys,
Susan can have the organ. For love and affection I bequeath to my three sons Otho
David, William H. David and George P. David one land known as the Mill place containing
63 acres & the mill included, also one lot known as the Black place containing
147 1/2 acres, also one lot known as the J. O. David place containing 337 acres,
also one lot known as the Newtown lot containing 14 acres, also one lot known as
the T. A. Long place containing 24 acres, also one lot known as the J. T. Gholston
lot containing 23 acres, also one lot known as the Kimble lot containing 25 acres,
also three lots known as the Zemily Woods place containing 76 acres; all the above
named lands amounts to 906 acres, hoping they will manage it to a good purpose.
To my five children Otho David, William H. David, George P. David, Susan E. David
and Mary David a lot of land known as my lower plantation containing 1984 acres,
which is to be lotted off and drawn for as near equal as possible. They can have
that which is in Carlton cut in lots to suit themselves & draw for so each one
may have a lot or lots in Carlton. Also one lot of land known as the Brookline place
containing 772 acres. Also to my five children a certain lot of land known as the
McElroy land now known as the Frank Brown place containing 49 acres which is to
be put in with plantation lot Brookline. Executors: my beloved wife Olivia M. B.
David and Otho David my son. Should either one of them die, my son William H. David
to take their place. Signed: John M. David. Witness: J. W. Power, Thomas W. Long,
C. C. Mitchell, T. F. Christian. Recd 2 Nov 1896.
Page 482 ~ William R. Adams
8 Dec 1888
To my beloved
wife Elizabeth Ann with whom I have lived so happily for so many years, all my estate
both real and personal. To my beloved daughter Emma Elizabeth, $200 if she remain
unmarried until the death of my wife. To my son James William one mule to be valued
at $100 to be delivered to him at the time of his reaching 21 years, unless I should
live until his majority and deliver the mule myself. My daughter Emma Elizabeth
and my son James William to be made equal with my other children in regards to bedding,
cow & c[alf] by my wife. After the death of my wife, my executors to sell all
the property then remaining
and divided equally among my beloved children,
to wit, Alfred M., Fannie L., Emma E., Mary A., Allen J., Cornelia Eliza James W.
share and share alike. Executors: my sons Alford M. and James W. Signed: William
R. Adams. Witness: Stephen C. OKelley, R. H. Kinnebrew, M. C. Stevens. Recd
11 Nov 1896.