Miscellaneous Will Transcriptions

 

Transcriptions and abstracts of other wills mostly related to the Washburn families that are not posted on my Washburn Family Genealogy web site files. Most of these are from Bristol and Plymouth Counties in Massachusetts, Stafford, Connecticut, and Queens County in New York, but you will also find some from other Massachusetts and New York Counties, Rhode Island, Vermont, Maine, etc.

Be patient. This file may take a while to locate the will you requested.

 

Will of Benjamin Adams of Brookfield, Worcester County, Massachusetts Bay (1784) *

   In the Name of GOD Amen. I Benjamin Adams of Brookfield in the County of Worcester and Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Gentleman — Being this fifteenth Day of January in the year of our Lord one Thousand seven hundred and eighty four, sound in Mind & Memory – Do make and ordain this my last Will & Testament in Manner & Form following, Viz I commit my Soul to GOD who gave it hoping thro’ the Merits of Jesus Christ to receive full & free Pardon of all my sins, and Life everlasting in the World to come ~ I commit my body to the earth from whence it was taken to have a decent Christian Burial at the charge and Expence of the Executor hereafter mentioned, hoping in the Resurrection of the Dead and Reunion of Soul & Body at the great Day.

                And respecting my worldly Interest and Estate I dispose thereof as follows, viz.

Imprimis, I give, Bequeath & devise to my Son Benjamin Adams all my real Estate that I have not disposed of, including my Pew in the Meeting House, to him my abovesaid Son, his Heirs and Assigns forever – Reserving to my Daughters Persis Stevens and Lydia Adams, the Privilege of seting in said Pew, so long as they shall remain Inhabitants of this Precinct, provided that nothing in this Will shall extend to an Incumbrance in Case of Necessity to my executor herein after named, of selling said Estate – I also give and bequeath to my aforesaid Son all my live Stock that I shall die seized and possessed of, with my Husbandry and Carpenter Tools of every Kind, together with the Produce of the Farm on which I dwell (excepting what I shall hereafter reserve for my Daughter Lydia in this Will provided always that he my sd. Son shall pay all my Just Debts and Legacies as shall be hereafter mentioned in this my last Will & Testament.

Item; I give, bequeath & devise to my son Ephraim Adams Three Pounds in Addition to what I have heretofore given him.

Item; I give to my Son Joel Adams the Sum of twenty six Pounds thirteen Shilling and four Pence lawful Money including what he has already received.

Item; I give to the Children of my Son Silas Deceased, as follows, viz to the Eldest Son Lemuel, Five Pounds, to Silas, Three Pounds; to the Daughters, five Shilling each – having done largely for their Father in his life time.

Item; I give to my Daughter Rebecca Bartlett five Shillings and a warming Pan, having given her a Portion heretofore.

Item; I give to my Daughter Lucy Stuart, Five Shillings She having already received her Portion.

Item; I give to my Daughter Mary Woolcot, the Value of a Gold necklace, in Addition to what she has already received. –

Item; I give to my Daughter Sarah Banister, the Value of a Midling Cow, in Addition to what She has already received.

Item; I give to my Daughter Persis Stevens, Thirty three Pounds lawful Money including what She has already received.

Item; I give, bequeath and devise to my Daughter Lydia Adams the Sum of Thirty three Pounds lawful Money, also one good Feather Bed, with the Bedstead and Cord, Bolster & Pillows thereunto belonging, a new Chest with two Draws, a Brass Kettle, a large Pair of Kitchen Hand Irons, a Crane with the Trammel & Hooks & a Pair of Flat Irons – I also reserve to my aforesaid Daughter, the Use of the Northwest Chamber in the House, so long as She remains Single, with the Privilege of carrying on her Business in that Part of the House that shall be most agreable to her and the Family ~  And upon Condition, that she remains with, and looks after me until my decease, I give her one half of the Corn, Grain, Meat, Butter & Cheese that I shall die possessed of; provided my Decease takes place between the time of Harvest, and the first of April – should it be after after the first of April, she shall be entitled to the whole of the aforesaid Articles. ~  The Remainder of my Household Furniture and Moveables to be divided equally among my Daughters.—

                All the above mentioned Legacies to be paid by my Son Benjamin Adams, Desiring he may have Seasonable Time and Opportunity to make the above mentioned Payments in.

Item; I give my wearing Apparel, Books, & any & all my other Estate, not included in the foregoing Legacies to be divided equally among my Sons who shall be living at my Decease.

                And I Name and Appoint my son Benjamin Adams sole Executor of this Will.

                And I hereby Revoke and disannul all other Wills, and Declare this, and this only to be my last Will and Testament

                In Witness whereof I the said Benjamin Adams have hereunto set my Hand and Seal the Day & Year first before written.

Signed sealed Published and Declared

by the said Benjamin Adams

to be his last Will and

Testament in Presence of                                                                                                   Benjamin Adams                              (seal)

us Witnesses

                Joseph Appleton

                Mary Appleton

                Wm Ayres 2d

 

                It is also my Will & Pleasure that ye. Person that shall look to and take care of me until my Decease shall be entitled to the same Proportion of Wool, as of Provisions heretofore mentioned.

                N.B. This Article was written before the witnessing and ensealing of this Instrument.

 

Presented for probate on 25 Oct. 1785 by Benjamin Adams, the Executor therein named, and proved by Joseph Appleton and William Ayres 2d, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Worcester County Probate Case #130.

 

 

Will of Deborah Adams of Kingston, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1826) *

This instrument testifies that I Deborah Adams of Kingston in the County of Plymouth & Commonwealth of Massachusetts Singlewoman, do hereby make & declare my last Will and Testament in manner following –

        First I direct the payment of my debts & funeral charges.

        Second My moveables or Furniture & wearing apparel I give to my niece Sally widow of Nathaniel Bradford, deceased.

        Third my other property I give one third to my niece Molly widow of Seth Perkins, deceased; One third to my niece Sally Bradford aforesaid; & One third to Deborah A. Cushing daughter the aforesaid Sally Bradford, to be equally divided between those three persons as they shall agree & the Executor direct.

        Fourth I hereby appoint Joseph Holmes Executor of this Will.

Signed Sealed & declared this 20th day of January 1826

Witnesses      Zephh Willis                                                                                                   Deborah Adams                                (seal)

                        Joseph Holmes

 

Presented for probate on 15 May 1826 by Joseph Holmes, the Executor therein named, and proved by Zephh Willis, one of the witnesses.

 

Peleg Tupper, Seth Cushing and Melzar Adams, all of Kingston, were appointed to appraise the estate of Deborah Adams, late of Kingston, Singlewoman, on 15 May 1826. The Inventory was dated 19 May 1826, but not totaled. The personal estate was small, and there was no real estate. A separate inventory was made of the securities left by Deborah Adams, and was quite large, including notes owed by Nathl.  Foster, Nathl. Cushman, Jedh. Holmes & Jedh. Holmes Jr., John Cook & Eli Cook, Joseph Holmes Jr., Melzar Adams Jr., Jeremiah Sampson, Jonah Willis, Oliver Sampson Jr., and Melatiah Holmes. Joseph Holmes, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 17 July 1826.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 60, pp. 335-336, 488-489, from FHL microfilm #0550911.

 

 

Will of George Adams of Plymouth, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1860) *

I George Adams of Plymouth in the County of Plymouth and State of Massachusetts laborer, being in feeble health, and of sound and disposing mind and memory, calling to mind the uncertainty of human life and being, desirous of settling my temporal affairs, and directing how the Estate with which it has pleased God to bless me shall be disposed of after my decease while I have strength and capacity so to do, do make and publish this my last will and testament, hereby revoking and making null and void, all other wills and testaments, by me at any time heretofore made.

Imprimis. My will is that all my just debts and funeral charges shall by my Executor hereinafter named, be paid out of my estate as soon after my decease as shall be by him found convenient

Item  I give devise and bequeath to my wife Lucy Adams all the property real and personal or mixed of which I shall die seized and possessed or to which I shall be entilted at the time of my decease.

Item. I hereby constitute and appoint George Nelson Adams of Plymouth in the County of Plymouth to be Executor of this my last will and testament.

In testimony whereof I hereunto set my hand and seal and declare this to be my last will and testament in the presence of the witnesses named hereafter this thirty first day of August in the year of our Lord One thousand eight hundred and sixty.

                                                                                                                                                George Adams                                  (seal)

Signed, sealed published and declared by the said George Adams as and for his last will and testament in presence of us who in his presence and in the presence of each other and at his request have subscribed our names as witnesses hereto.

                                                                                                                                                A. C. Chandler

                                                                                                                                                E. F. Erland

                                                                                                                                                Benj. Hubbard

 

Lucy Adams, of Plymouth, was granted administration with the will annexed of the estate of George Adams, late of Plymouth, on 11 Feb. 1867, with Andrew Burditt and Joseph Churchill, of Duxbury and Plymouth, as sureties, the executor therein named being deceased.

 

Joseph Churchill, Colman Bartlett and Rufus Churchill, all of Plymouth, were appointed to appraise the estate of George Adams, late of Plymouth, on 11 Feb. 1867. His real estate was valued at $825, and his personal estate totaled $83.00. Lucy Adams, the executrix, gave her oath to the inventory on 3 Apr. 1867.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 105, p. 496-497, from FHL microfilm #0555647, Vol. 124, p. 60, and Vol. 109, p. 178.

 

 

Will of Lucy Adams of Kingston, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1833) *

                Know all men, that I Lucy Adams of Kingston Plymouth County, Singlewoman, do make this my Will, viz:

                First, I give to my sisters Mary & Christiana Adams and to the survivor of them, during their & her life, the improvement & income of all my estate real and personal, hereby intending they or she should have a right to take from my woodland as much wood as they or she please for use or sale; and I further direct my Executor, if necessary for their or her support to allow them to spend my personal estate.

                Secondly, I give to my brother George Adams all the rest and residue of my estate in fee simple and do hereby make him my Executor.

                In witness of all which I have hereto set my hand and seal March 2nd A. D. 1833.

                                                                                                                                                Lucy Adams                                       (seal)

                Signed sealed & published by Lucy Adams as her Will in our presence & we in her presence subscribed the same as witnesses.

                                                                                                                                                Thomas P. Beal

                                                                                                                                                Joseph White Jr.

                                                                                                                                                Elisha Brewster

 

                To the Hon. Judge of Probate for the County of Plymouth:

                Having been made Executor of the Will of the late Lucy Adams of Kingston old age and infirmities compel me to ask to be excused from said trust.

                I therefore pray your Honor to appoint my Son Frederic C. Adams to settle sd estate.

                Kingston Dec. 14th 1863.                                                                                   Geo. Adams

 

Frederick C. Adams, of Kingston, was granted administration with the will annexed of the estate of Lucy Adams, late of Kingston, on 11 Jan. 1864, with Geo. Adams and Geo. T. Adams, of the Town of Kingston, as sureties, witnessed by Horatio Adams and Lydia S. Adams.

No inventory of her estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 104, p. 479-480, from FHL microfilm #0555646, and Vol. 114, p. 194(192).

 

 

Will of Amherst Alden of Duxbury, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1804) *

In the name of God amen I Amherst Alden of Duxbury in the County of Plymouth, being weak in Body, but of sound disposing Mind thanks be to God for the same, knowing the certainty of death & the Uncertainty of the time thereof do therefore this seventh day of November in the Year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and four, make, ordain and appoint this to be my last Will and Testament that is to say –

First I give and bequeath unto my Sister Edith Alden one Cow and three sheep as her own, with Hay and pasturing sufficient for the same so long as she the said Edith remain unmarried, the aforesaid Hay to be put into the barn. Also I give and bequeath unto her the said Edith Alden four hundred Dollars in Money with my Watch, the Money to be paid her, within twelve months after my decease.—

  Also I give and bequeath to my Brother Nathaniel Alden three Hundred Dollars to be paid him within twelve months after my decease.

   Also I give and bequeath to my Neice Lucia S. Smith one hundred Dollars to be paid her within twelve months after my decease –

    Also I give and bequeath unto my Nephew Judah Belknap two hundred and fifty Dollars in money to be paid him within twelve Months after my decease also I give unto him the said Judah Belknap all my wearing Apparel.—

     Also I give and bequeath unto my Neice Deborah Alden Belknap One hundred Dollars to be paid her within twelve months after my decease, and if she the said Deborah A Belknap should not be married before the decease of her Aunt Edith Alden aforesaid, then she the said Deborah A. Belknap shall have the pasturing of a Cow and three sheep with good salt & fresh Hay put into the barn sufficient to winter the same, with sufficient Houseroom & firewood so long as she remains unmarried–

     Also I give and bequeath unto my Nephew John Alden my Violin & fifty Dollars to be paid him in twelve months after my decease–

     Also I give and bequeath unto my Namesake Amherst Alden Frazer twenty five Dollars in money to be paid him when he shall arrive at the Age of eighteen years, then to be laid out in a Silver Watch.—

     I also give and bequeath unto Lucy Turner now resident at Docter Isaac Winslow’s in Marshfield one half dozen of common Table, & one half dozen of small small silver spoons to be procured by my Executor—

     I also give and bequeath to my Brother Judah Alden all the Residue and Remainder of my Estate real & personal, wherever it may be found of what name or nature soever, he paying all the above Legacies with all my just debts and funeral Charges with the Expence of settling my Estate. And that the said Judah Alden furnish a Home & chaise for my Mother to ride to meeting so long as she shall live, and also that he furnish a suitable Conveyance for my Sister the abovesaid Edith Alden to ride to meeting so long as she remains unmarried —

  And I do ordain constitute and appoint the abovesaid Judah Alden sole Executor to this my last Will and Testament, In Witness whereof I the abovesaid Amherst Alden have set my hand and Seal the day & Year above written —

Signed, sealed & delivered by the said Amherst Alden

to be his last Will and Testament in presence of us

who in his presence & in presence of each other &

all at his request have subscribed our Hands as Witnesses

                Benjamin Alden

                Uriah Wadsworth                                                                                                Amherst Alden                                  (seal)

                Jabez Morse —

 

Presented for probate on 8 Jan. 1805 by Judah Alden Esqr., the Executor therein named, and proved by Uriah Wadsworth and Jabez Morse, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Judah Alden Esqr, the before named Executor.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 40, p. 152-153, from FHL microfilm #0550901.

 

 

Will of Briggs Alden of Duxbury, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1793) *

In the name of God Amen. I Briggs Alden of Duxbury in the County of Plymouth & Commonwealth of Massachusetts, being in good health of body & of a sound & disposing mind & memory, thanks be given to God for the same, knowing the certainty of death & the uncertainty of the time thereof, do therefore this twenty third day of December in the year of our Lord one thousand, seven hundred & ninety three make & ordain this, to be my last will & testament, that is to say

        First, I Give & devise unto my Loving wife Mercy, all my wearing apparell, Houshold Furniture, houshold goods or stuff, with my linnen & plate, also two Cows, six sheep, the horse & carriage I shall have at ye time of my decease, twelve cords of wood at her dwelling house for each year she shall remain my widow if she shall want so much for her own fire, also one sixth part of the pasturing, hay, corn, grain, roots & fruit of all kinds that shall grow or be cut on all the Lands & meadows that I shall die seized of within ye town of Duxbury aforesaid, the hay to be brought into the Barn or Stacked on ye upland. I also give to her the use & improvement of so much of my dwelling House & other Buildings as shall be necessary & convenient for her use, so long as she shall remain my widow

        Also – I Give & devise unto my Son Judah ye meadow on common Island which I bought of James Southworth, also my Island of meadow called long Island, both in Duxbury, with their rights and appurtenances to him my said Son Judah his heirs and assigns forever

        Also – I Give & devise unto my Son Nathaniel, all my Messuages, tenements & hereditaments, with their rights & appurtenances, lying & being in the town of North Yarmouth and Freeport in the County of Cumberland, to him the said Nathaniel his heirs & assigns forever

        Also – I Give and devise unto my Daughter Edith one Hundred & twenty pounds, to be paid within one year after my decease, also sufficient fire wood & convenient house room for her use, so long as she shall remain unmarried

        Also – I Give and devise unto my Daughter Abigail Forty pounds to be paid her in one year, after my decease

        Also – I give & devise unto the children of my Daughter Deborah deceased, all the goods or houshold furniture, which my sd Daughter Deborah recieved of me at the time of her First marriage & Five shillings in money

        Also – I Give & devise unto my Son Amherst all the buildings messuages, Lands, meadows, tenements & hereditaments, their rights & appurtenances, lying & being within the towns of Duxbury & Pembroke, in the County of Plymouth not herein before given away, to him my said Son Amherst, his heirs & assigns forever. also all my books & all the residue of my money, debts, dues & other personal estate & effects whatsoever & wheresoever it may be found, he paying all my just debts & legacies and doing the services as herein before devised, given, ordered and expressed, also my Funeral charges, expences of proving my will & settling my estate. And I do hereby ordain & constitute him the said Amherst Alden Sole Executor of this my last will & testament  In Witness whereof I the said Briggs Alden have hereunto Set my hand & seal, the day and year first above written

Signed, Sealed & declared by ye said

Briggs Alden to be his last will &                                                                                    Briggs Alden                     (seal)

testament, in presence of us, who in

his presence & at his request, & in the

presence of each other, have Subscribed

our names as witnesses

        Geo. Partridge

        Benja. Alden

        Hannah Southworth

 

        Duxbury October 8th 1796—This certifies that I the Subscriber widow of Briggs Alden, late of Duxbury deceased, do approve of the Last will & testament of the said deceased

                                                                                                                                                Mercy Alden

 

Presented for probate on 9 Dec. 1796 by Amherst Alden, the Executor therein named, and proved by George Partridge, Benjamin Alden, & Hannah Southworth, all the witnesses. No inventory was recorded for his estate.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 36, p. 17-19, from FHL microfilm #0550719.

 

 

Will of Caleb Alden of Middleborough, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1858) *

                Be it remembered, that I Caleb Alden of Middleborough in the County of Plymouth and Commonwealth of Massachusetts being of a sound and disposing mind and memory, do make ordain publish, and declare this Instrument to be my last Will and Testament in manner following,

                First. I give and bequeath to my wife Abigail Alden one cow and one swine also the furniture and things she has brought into my house, also I give and bequeath to my said wife the use profit and benefit of about forty acres of my homestead farm with the buildings thereon being the same land I bought of Solomon Alden Rufus Wood and George W. Wood for the term of her natural life also the bed clothes she has made.

                Second. I give and bequeath to my son Cyrus Alden all the things in the house that was brought there by his mother.

                Third. I give and bequeath to my son Ruel T. Alden one dollar and no more.

                Fourth. I give and bequeath to my daughter Mary K. Alden all my real estate including that which I have given the improvement of to my wife during her natural life the said Mary K. Alden her heirs and assigns to hold the same forever I also give to the said Mary K. Alden all of my personal property and estate not before disposed of in this my Will she paying my just debts and funereal charges.

                Lastly. I nominate and appoint my said daughter Mary K. Alden sole Executrix of this my last Will.

                In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this eighth day of September in the year one thousand eight hundred & fifty eight.

                                                                                                                                                Caleb Alden                                       (seal)

                Signed sealed published by the said Caleb Alden as and for his last Will and Testament in presence of us who at his request and in his presence and in the presence of each other have subscribed our names as Witnesses hereto.

                                                                                                                                                Solomon Alden

                                                                                                                                                Harriet L. Alden

                                                                                                                                                Emily F. Alden

                                                                                                                                                Susan E. Alden

 

Mary K. Alden, of Middleborough, was granted letters testamentary on the estate of Caleb Alden, late of Middleborough, on 28 Sept. 1863, with Solomon Alden, of Bridgewater, and Lewis T. Alden, of Bridgewater, as sureties.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 104, p. 417, from FHL microfilm #0555646, and Vol. 114, p. 452(424).

 

 

Will of Daniel Alden of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1799) *

        In the name of God Amen.—I Daniel Alden of the town of Bridgwater, calling to mind the mortality of my body, and knowing that it is appointed for all men once to die, do make & ordain this my last will & testament, that is to say, principally & first of all, I give & recommend my soul into the hand of almighty God that gave it; and my body to the earth to be buried in a decent christian burial at the discretion of my Executors, and as touching such worldly estate wherewith it has pleased God to bless me in this life, I Give, demise & dispose of the same in the following manner and form.

        First,—I Give & bequeath to Sarah, my well beloved wife the improvement of one half my real estate & the whole of my indoor moveables & two of my Cows, so long as she remains my widow & no longer, Except those houshold goods she brought with her, those it is my will should be her own to dispose of as she sees fit.

        Secondly—I Give the whole of my remainder of my estate both real & personal (after my just debts & funeral charges are paid) to my four children, Otis, Daniel, Sally & Alpheus, to be equally divided between them.

        Thirdly, I constitute Sarah, my well beloved wife, together with Joseph Alden, my brother to be joint Executors of this my last will & testament, ratifying & confirming this & no other.—In witness whereof I have hereunto Set my hand & Seal this twenty ninth day of August in the year of our Lord one thousand, Seven Hundred & ninety nine.

Signed, Sealed & Declared by said Danl.

Alden to be his last will & testament in                                                                          Daniel Alden     (seal)

presence of us, who in his presence & in

presence of each other have subscribed

our names –

                Moses Cary

                Abiel Harris

                Samuel Alden junr

 

Sarah Alden petitioned the court on 5 Oct. 1799 to have Joseph Alden be appointed as sole Executor, “it being difficult for me to act in that capacity.”

Presented for probate on 7 Oct. 1799 by Joseph Alden, one of the Executors therein named, and proved by Moses Cary & Abiel Harris, two of the witnesses.

 

Moses Cary, yeoman, Saml. Brett, Gentleman, both of Bridgwater, & Abiel Harris of Abington, Gentleman, were appointed to appraise the estate of Daniel Alden, late of Bridgwater, yeoman, on 7 Oct. 1799. The Inventory of the Estate of Mr. Daniel Alden, late of Bridgwater, dated 25 Oct. 1799, totaled $2315.97, including 26 acres of land with the buildings valued at $1600, and $238.62 in notes of hand. Jos. Alden, the Executor to ye will of Danl. Alden, deceased, gave his oath to the inventory on 7 May 1801.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 37, pp. 131, 441-442, from FHL microfilm #0550719.

 

 

Will of David Alden of Middleborough, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1763) *

Know all men by these Presents shall come that I David alden of Middleborough In the County of Plimouth in Newengland being at this time of a Sound and Disposeing memory blessed be God for the Same but being Sensible of my own Mortallity Do make and Ordain this to be my Last will and testament to remain firm and inviolabell forever first I recomend my Soul to God that gave it and my Body to the Earth from whence it was taken hopeing to receive the Same at the general Resurrection throug the merits and mediation of Jesus Christ my Lord and as to what it hath Pleased God to bestow upon me of this worlds Goods I Dispose of the same as follows I have given to my Son Solomon alden all my lands Lying in Bridgwater by deed of gift more I give to my son Solomon my best hat and Neck Hankercheif and to my Son David alden I have given by deed of gift about 60 acres of land in midelborough and moley Eatons right more I give to my Son David 12 acres of land of that Lot I bought lawyer Leanard at the west end thare of more I give [can’t read] My Bleu Coat and Jacket I have given to my Son Job alden by Deed of Gift about a hundred acre of land more I give to my Son Job alden my little feald by the buring place with the land adioining to that feald between that and brother Josephs homested land and I give to my Son Job my broadcloth Sute the iner bar and the Chain that I had of widdo pool my broad hoe and gun and I give and bequeathe my loveing wife judith alden the east end of my House that all the old part of the bulding to be allways for her use and improvement and for my Daughter abigail to improve as long as She Needs it and I give to my wife my barn and Cornhouse and the hold improvement of my meadow by brother John and the one half of my home farm moing paster planting orchard and I give to my wife the improvment of my wood land for wood and fenceing and I give to my Daughter abigail my meadow between brother Johns and mr Eatons lousey when She comes to the age of twenty one year her mother improveing on it til then and my will is that my son Silas alden Should pay as a Lagecy to my Daughter abigail one hundered pound Lawfull money within one year after my Decease and my will is that my Daughter abigail Should have ten Cows and Six Sheep and all the rest of my Stock Cows young Catell mares Sheep Swine foults I give to my beloved wife to be at her Dispose as allso the one half of my inadore movebels to be at her Dispose and the other half of my inadore movebels I give to my Daughter abigail and I give my Son Job with his mother the improvement of my lands till it is Enought to pay all my just Debts funaral Chargs or any other neasecary Charges that may arise in Seatelling the Estate and my will is that my Job alden with my beloved wife Judith alden Should be Executors of this my last will and Testament and all my other Estate that I have not hear given away lying in midelborough I give to my Son Silas alden and my lot at ashford I give to my five Children to be Equally Divided between them as witness I have hereunto Set my Hand Seall this 6th Day of may 1763.—

Abiel Keith                                                                                                                           David Alden                                          (seal)

David Hooper

John  X  Rackard

 

Presented for probate on 14 May 1763 by Job Alden and Judith Alden, the Executors therein named, and proved by Abiel Keith and David Hooper, two of the witnesses.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of David Allden, late of Middleborough, was appraised by Abiezer Edson, Benja. White, and Joshua White on 5 Nov. 1763, and totaled £953.19.8, including his homestead farm valued at £600. Job Allden, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 7 Nov. 1763.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 16, pp. 503-504, 535, from FHL microfilm #0551543, the original will not in the docket folder, and the transcribed will in Vol. 16 cut off at the bottom of the first page with several erasures and ink blots making it hard to read, particularly the date of the signing thereof.

 

 

Will of Edeth Alden of Duxbury, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1814) *

        In the Name of God amen. I Edeth Alden of Duxbury in the County of Plymouth being in a weakly State of Body, but of sound disposing Mind and Memory, blessed be God for the same do therefore this thirty first day of October in the Year of our Lord, one thousand eight hundred & fourteen make & ordain this to be my last Will and Testament, that is to say. –

        I give & bequeath unto my Brother Judah Alden a Bedstead & Bed cord that he has now in use with all the Stuff in the Kitchen Chamber & Garret & a four pail full Iron Pot. –

        I give and bequeath to my Brother Nathaniel Alden two hundred Dollars to be paid him by my Executor in one Year after my decease –

        I give & bequeath unto Wealthy Daughter of my Brother Nathaniel Alden two hundred Dollars to be paid her by my Executor in one Year after my decease –

        I give & bequeath unto my Niece Deborah Alden Brooks the Wife of Seth Brooks of said Duxbury, all my wearing Apparel, with my Necklace, Sleeve Buttons and Watch with all the Residue & remainder of my Household Goods household Furniture, Stuff & Plate, with all my Notes Debts & Demands, She paying all my just debts funeral Charges & the above Legacies, the Expences of settling my Estate.–

        I also give her the said Deborah Alden Brooks all the Residue & Remainder of my Estate not before disposed of, of what name or nature & wherever found–

        And I do constitute & appoint the abovesaid Seth Brooks Executor to this my last Will & Testament – In Witness whereof I the said Edeth Alden have hereunto set my hand & Seal the day & Year above written —

Signed sealed published & declared by the

said Edeth Alden to be her last Will & Testament

in the presence of us who at her request & in her                                                                   her

presence subscribed our Names as Witnesses --                                                            Edeth  +  Alden                                    (seal)

                Benjamin Alden                                                                                                            Mark

                Sarah Southworth

                Jedidiah Southworth

 

Presented for probate on 16 Jan. 1815 by Seth Brooks, the Executor therein named, and proved by Sarah Southworth and Jedidiah Southworth, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Seth Brooks, the before named Executor.

No inventory of her estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 47, p. 58-59, from FHL microfilm #0550904.

 

 

Will of Eleazer Alden of Bridgewater, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1769) *

                                                In the Name of GOD, Amen.

The second day of May anno Domini one thousand, seven hundred & sixty-nine. I Eleazer Alden of Bridgwater in the county of Plymouth in New-England yeoman, advancing in years but of perfect mind & memory,– thanks be to GOD therefor, calling to mind the mortality of my body, do make and ordain this my last will & testament in the following maner.

First I give my soul into the hands of GOD, and my body I comit to the earth to be decently buried at the discretion of my executor hereafter named and as to my worldly estate I dispose thereof as follows, my just debts, funeral charges & other necessary expences being first allowed.—

  Imprimis, I give to my son Jonathan Alden besides what I formerly gave him the sixth part of my wearing aparel & the sixth part of my books. –

  Item. I give to my son Eleazer Alden, to him his heirs & assigns forever, part of my homestead, towit. all that part of it which I purchased of Amos Snell & Solomon Leonard lying on the south side of the road before my door, also half my lot in the cedar-swamp. also one half part of my purchase right in undivided lands, also the sixth part of my wearing aparel & the sixth part of my books. –

  Item. I give to my son David Alden besides what I have already given him, the sixth part of my wearing aparel & the sixth part of my books.

  Item I give to my son Ezra Alden besides what I have already given him the sixth part of my wearing aparel & the sixth part of my books. –

  Item. I give to my son Joshua Alden his heirs & assigns forever the other part of my homestead towit, all that part of it which lyeth on the northerly side of the road leading by my door, together with the buildings including also half an acre of land which the road cut off upon the southeast corner. Also I give to said Joshua his heirs or assigns forever all the land which I have adjoining to the great-river, upon the northeast corner of Bailey’s plain so called. also the other half of my lot in the cedar-swamp. also the other half of my purchase right in undivided Lands; the sixth part of my wearing aparel, and the sixth part of my books. ~~  Furthermore I give as aforesaid to Joshua Alden all my houshold goods, book of accounts, bills, bonds, cash, live-stock, together with all & singular my personal estate whatsoever, not otherwise disposed off in this my last will & testament, which shall appear at my decease. hereby obliging him to discharge & pay all my just debts, funereal expences, as also the several legacies herein mentioned. – And I do hereby constitute & appoint said Joshua Alden to be sole executor of this my last will and testament.

                                Item, I give to my son Timothy Alden besides what I have already given him the sixth part of my wearing aparel & the sixth part of my books. – And I do hereby revoke & disallow all other wills by me heretofore made declaring this to be my last will & testament.     In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal the day and year first above written. ~

Signed, sealed, pronounced & declared

by the said Eleazer Alden to be his last                                                                           Eleazer Alden                                   (seal)

will & testament in the presence of us

the subscribers.                     Ebenezer Wade

                                                Christopher Sever

                                                Josiah Richards

 

Presented for probate on 1 Feb. 1773 by Joshua Alden, the Executor therein named, and proved by Christopher Sever and Josiah Richards, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Joshua Alden, the before named executor, with Christopher Sever and Josiah Richards, all of Bridgwater, as sureties.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 21, p. 228-229, from FHL microfilm #0550712.

 

 

Will of Eleazer Alden of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1802) *

In the Name of God Amen.—I Eleazer Alden of Bridgwater in the County of Plymouth & Comwealth of Massachusetts, yeoman, being of a sound, disposing mind & memory, do make & ordain this my last will & testament in order following –vizt  I resign my soul into the hands of God who gave it, and my body, I recommend to the earth to be buried at the discretion of my Executor, and with regard to such worldly estate, with which God has been pleased to bless me, I give & bequeath the same in manner following –vizt.

Imprimis—I Give and bequeath unto my beloved wife Sarah Alden, one Cow & all my indoor moveables (except what by this will are otherwise disposed of) to be hers forever. Also so long as she shall remain my widow I give unto her the keeping of one Cow, both hay & grass, also a sufficiency of meat for her support, also, annually I give unto her, nine bushells of Corn, three bushells of Rye & four Dollars in money

Item—I Give & bequeath to my beloved wife Sarah Alden aforesaid, and my Daughter May [sic] Alden, the use of one half of my Pew in the meeting house, also the use of ye easterly front room & chamber over the same, together with the bed room and buttery with necessary Cellar Room & use of the kitchin so far as may be necessary, with necessary passage ways for improving the same, and free use of the well, also good fire wood, at all times, suitable & sufficient & cut off at the door for maintaining one fire—also provision for riding whenever they may have occasion; the bequests contained in this article to my said wife Sarah & Daughter Mary to be enjoyed by them, so long as they shall remain unmarried, and to be enjoyed by either of them, who shall after the marriage or decease of the other remain unmarried; and after the marriage of one & decease of the other, or marriage or decease of both, I give the same Estate to my son Eleazer Alden.—

Item—I Give and bequeath to my Daughter Mary, aforesaid one Cow, a good feather bed & furniture, belonging to the same also, a Case of drawers, a great wheel, a foot wheel, a low chest, six chairs & a table, to be hers forever, also I give to my said Daughter Mary, so long as she lives unmarried a sufficiency of meat, nine bushells of Corn & three bushells of Rye to be annually provided for her, also a good keeping for one Cow both by hay & grass –

Item—I Give & bequeath to my two Daughters Martha Blossom, wife of Sylvanus Blossom & Abigail Snell wife of William Snell Sixty Dollars each, in addition to what I have already given them.

Item—I Give & bequeath to my Daughter Hannah Latham wife of Levi Latham two Dollars, in addition, to what I have already given her –

Item.—I Give & bequeath my Notes on interest, including such as I may hold against my sons in law, my Cash on hand my wearing apparell & Books, to my children, to be equally divided among them, except one third part of my Books which I hereby give my wife, with a right to select the same.–

Item.—I Give & bequeath to my sons in law, all Notes of hand not on interest, that I hold against them.

Item.—I hereby constitute and appoint my son Eleazer, aforesaid Sole Executor of this my last will & testament, ordering him at his own charge to settle my estate, pay my debts and funeral charges, pay the legacies herein mentioned, & to see that his mother & sister enjoy fully the provision herein made for their comfort & support.

Item—I Give and bequeath to my said son Eleazer, all my Estate, both real & personal, not already disposed of to be his forever –

Item—I hereby, further declare, that the house room herein provided for my wife & daughter Mary, is to be in ye new house I have lately built. And also, that, should my son Eleazer neglect to provide for his mother according to the tenor of this will then, that his mother, shall be entitled to the use of one third part of what I have given him, and may enjoy the same so long, & no longer, than she continues my widow, Ratifying and confirming, this to be my last will & testament & disallowing all other wills by me heretofore made.— In Testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand & seal the twenty seventh day of March in ye year of our Lord one thousand Eight Hundred and two.—

Signed, Sealed, Pub-                                                                                                           Eleazer Alden                   (seal)

lished & declared by

ye sd Eleazer Alden

to be his last will

& testament in pre-

sence of us –

Beza Hayward

John Holman Mitchell

Caleb Mitchell

 

Presented for probate on 1 Aug. 1803 by Eleazer Alden, the Executor therein named, and proved by John Holman Mitchell & Caleb Mitchell, two of the witnesses. Samuel Leonard and Phineas Conant were the sureties on the bond of Eleazer Alden.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 38, p. 349-351, from FHL microfilm #0550720.

 

 

Will of Eleazer Alden of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1847) *

   Be it remembered that I Eleazer Alden of Bridgewater in the County of Plymouth do on this twenty sixth day of March one thousand eight hundred and forty seven make and publish this my last will and Testament in the manner following Viz.

In the first place I give and bequeath to my grand child Isaac F. Alden a child of my late son Isaac Alden deceased, to his heirs and assigns forever, a certain lot of land lying in Halifax, containing two acres & an half which was conveyed to me by deed from Soranus Shaw and also two acres of wood land lying in Halifax and is the same that was set off to me by execution from Major Thompsons Estate with all the privileges thereto belonging –

I give and bequeath to my beloved wife Abigail and her heirs and assigns forever all my personal estate of every description which I may have on had at the time of my decease. And also I give and bequeath to my beloved wife all the rest and residue of my Real Estate not given to my grand child aforesaid, for her to sell or dispose of or improve as she may think proper for the use of herself or heirs, or for the payment of debts in the manner that she shall think fit at any time while she remains my widow. And what part of said Real and personal Estate that is not disposed of by my widow at the time of her decease, I give and bequeath to my two daughters equally, viz: Marcia S. Humphrey & Hannah A. Adams their heirs and assigns forever—     Lastly I do appoint my beloved wife Abigail my Executrix of this my last Will and Testament –

   In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal the day and year above written.

                                                                                                                                                Eleazer Alden                                   (seal)

   Signed sealed and published by the sd Eleazer Alden declaring this to be his Will and Testament in presence of us. ~~

                                                                                                Samuel Leonard

                                                                                                William H Adams

                                                                                                David Sivan

 

Presented for probate on the third Monday of Jan. 1851 by Abigail Alden, the Executor therein named, and proved by Samuel Leonard and William H Adams, two of thw witnesses whose names as subscribed thereto. Letters Testamentary granted to Abigail Alden, the Executor therein named.

 

Abigail A. Alden, of Bridgewater, was appointed as Executor of the last Will and Testament of Eleazer Alden, late of Bridgewater, Yeoman, on 20 Jan. 1851, with Solomon Hayward and Hubbard D. Benson, of Bridgewater, as sureties.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 93, p. 35-36, from FHL microfilm #0555641, and Vol. 2H, p. 253.

 

 

Will of Elijah Alden of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1865) *

In the name of God Amen. I Elijah Alden of Bridgewater in the County of Plymouth & State of Massachusetts, Auger-maker, being of sound & disposing mind & memory do on this thirteenth day of May one thousand eight hundred & sixty five make and publish this my last will and testament in the following manner that is to say.

First. I do hereby give & bequeath to my beloved wife Hannah B. Alden, all the real & personal property of which I may die seized & possessed of every name and description which I hold in the town of Bridgewater Mass. after the payment of my just debts & incidental charges.

Second. I give & bequeath to each of my children Mariett K. Wiley, Thalia A. Keith, Caroline A. Darling, Elijah Ames Alden, William Bassett Alden, Ebenezer Alden, Hannah Elizabeth Alden each ten dollars.

And I do hereby appoint my wife Hannah B. Alden sole executrix of this my last will & testament.

                                                                                                                                                Elijah Alden                                       (seal)

Signed published & declared by the within named Elijah Alden on this thirteenth day of May one thousand eight hundred & sixty five in presence of us who were requested to witness the same in the presence of each other as his last will & testament.

                                                                                                                                                Morrill Robinson

                                                                                                                                                Laban Fobes

                                                                                                                                                Jos. B. Fobes

 

Hannah B. Alden, of Bridgewater, was granted Letters Testamentary on the estate of Elijah Alden, late of Bridgewater, on 20 Oct. 1879, with Elijah Ames Alden, of Boston, and Ebenezer Alden, of Bridgewater, as sureties.

 

Abiel Bassett, Benjamin Keith and Edward Everett Morse were appointed to appraise the estate of Elijah Alden, late of Bridgewater, on 20 Oct. 1879. His real estate was valued at $3300, and his personal estate totaled $850. Hannah B. Alden, the executrix, gave her oath to the inventory on 25 Nov. 1879.

 

 * Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 143, p. 249, from FHL microfilm #0556649, Vol. 149, p. 124, and Vol. 145, p. 219.

 

 

Will of Eunice Alden of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1830) *

In the name of God Amen, I Eunice Alden, of Bridgewater in the County of Plymouth & State of Massachusetts, Singlewoman, being of sound mind and memory, considering the uncertainty of life and wishing to dispose of my worldly effects do make ordain & publish this my last Will & Testament in manner & form following,   viz.

        First, I give and bequeath unto my sister Bethiah Arnold wife of Alfred Arnold One hundred Dollars, and one half of my Wearing Apparel, Bed, Bedding, Linen, Silver, Pewter, Iron, Crockery & Glass Wares, and also one half of my Household Furniture that was formerly my Mother’s. –

        Second. I give and bequeath unto my sister Betsey Hooper, wife of Joseph Hooper Junr. One hundred Dollars, and the other half of my Wearing apparel, Bed, Bedding, Linen, Silver, Pewter, Iron, Crockery & Glass Wares, Also one half of my Household Furniture that was formerly my Mother’s.

        Third, I give & bequeath unto my nephews Calvin Mitchell, Alden Mitchell, William Mitchell & George Mitchell, and to my nieces Sally Mitchell & Jane Mitchell children of my late sister Mehitabel Mitchell deceased, the sum of Five Dollars each –

        Fourth, The residue of my property of whatsoever name or nature of which I may be seized and possessed of at my decease after the payment of all my just debts & funeral charges and of the afore mentioned legacies, I give and bequeath unto my Brothers, Daniel Alden, Joseph Alden, Thomas Alden, Cyrus Alden, & Seth Alden, and to my sisters Bethiah Arnold & Betsey Hooper to be equally divided between them the said Daniel, Joseph, Thomas, Cyrus, Seth, Bethiah & Betsey.

        Fifth. I hereby constitute and appoint my brother Seth Alden my sole Executor to this my last Will & Testament hereby revoking all former Wills by me made. In testimony whereof I do hereunto set my hand and seal this twenty second day of March in the year of our Lord One thousand eight hundred & thirty.

                                                                                                                                                Eunice Alden                     (seal)

Signed, sealed, published & declared

by the said Eunice Alden to be her last Will & Testament in the

presence of us who at her request, and in her presence have subscribed

the same as witnesses.

        Joseph Hooper

        Mitchell Hooper

        Artemas Hale

 

Probated on 4 May 1830, and proved by Joseph Hooper and Artemas Hale, two of the witnesses.

 

Artemas Hale Esq., Abram Washburn and Eleazer Carver, all of Bridgewater, were appointed to appraise the estate of Eunice Alden, late of Bridgewater, on 6 Apr. 1830. The Inventory, dated 26 Apr. 1830, totaled $1469.73, including $1315.08 in sundry notes of hand with interest, but no real estate. Seth Alden, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 4 May 1830.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 69, pp. 55-56, 164-165, from FHL microfilm #0555260.

 

 

Will of Ezra Alden of Bridgewater, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1767) *

                                                In the Name of God, Amen.

The sixteenth day of october, in the year of our Lord one thousand, seven hundred and sixty seven, I Ezra Alden of Bridgwater in the county of Plymouth in New-England yeoman, being very sick and weak of body but of perfect mind and memory thanks be to God, Therefore calling to mind the mortality of my body, knowing it is appointed for all men once to die, do make and ordain this my last will and testament, that is to say.

Principally and first of all I give and recommend my soul into the hands of God that gave it, and my body I recomend to the earth to be buried in decent christian burial, at the discretion of my executor, nothing doubting but that soul & body shall be united again at the general resurrection by the mighty power of God, but as touching such worldly estate as it hath pleased God to bless me with in this life I give, demise & dispose of in the followg. mañer & form.

Imprimis, I give and bequeath to Rebeccah, my true & loving wife, the sole use & improvement of my whole estate both real & personal (meaning, that what Ive leased out shall come into her improvement when that term is out,) for her support, and to bring up my children, for & so long as she shall live my widdow, or until my son Isaac shall arrive to full age, and at either of said periods that providence shall order either marriage or death of my said widdow, or if my son Isaac shall arrive to full age before either, then my will is that the moveable effects & quick stock that shall then be in being, shall be divided, and my widow shall have her thirds as the law directs, both in real and personal. ~

Item. I give & bequeath to my beloved son Isaac Alden the one half of my whole estate both real & personal, and the other half I give & bequeath unto my two daughters Abigail & Susannah to be equally divided betwixt them, to them & their heirs & assigns forever, and my will is that if either of my said daughters shall die in their minority, then my said son Isaac shall have a double share of my estate, and the surviving daughter one third. and I do hereby order & direct that my just debts & funeral charges be paid out of my moveable effects. and I do hereby make & ordain my loving brother Nathan Alden of said Bridgwater to be my sole executor of this my last will & testament, and also to take guardianship for my children, if occasion be. ratifying, & confirming this and no other to be my last will and testament. In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand & seal the day & year above – written. ~

Signed, sealed, & pronounced by the                                                                              Ezra Alden                         (seal)

said Ezra Alden, as his last will &

testament, in the presence of us, –

Ebenezer Alden, John Orcut, Content Packard.

 

Presented for probate on 4 Jan. 1768 by Nathan Alden of Bridgewater, the Executor therein named, and proved by John Orcut and Content Packard, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Nathan Alden, the Executor.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of mr. Ezra Alden late of Bridgwater, yeoman, was appraised on 11 Dec. 1767 by John Orcutt, Isaac Allen and David Kingman junr., and totaled £896.19.1, including his homestead and buildings valued at £380.13.4, and lands at Beaver brook, house and 3/8ths of a sawmill valued at £356.13.4. Nathan Alden, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 10 Oct. 1768.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 20, pp. 8-9, 125, from FHL microfilm #0550711.

 

 

Will of Ezra Alden of Abington, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1867) *

                Know all men by these presents that I Ezra Alden of Abington in the County of Plymouth and Commonwealth of Massachusetts being of sound disposing mind and memory do make and publish this my last will and testament.

First.  I give and bequeath to my daughter Hannah Alden the sum of eight hundred dollars.

Second.  I give and bequeath to Bela Alden & Jared Alden my two sons to Mary Bates wife of Cyrus Bates my daughter and to Charles E. Allen my grandson & son of my daughter Susan deceased all of the remainder of my estate both real and personal to be equally divided between them the aforesaid Bela & Jared Alden Mary Bates and Charles E. Allen.

I ordain and appoint my son Bela Alden as Executor of this my last will and testament. In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal and publish & declare this to be my last will & testament in the presence of the witnesses named below this eighth day of July in the year one thousand eight hundred and sixty seven.

                                                                                                                                                Ezra Alden                         (seal)

Signed sealed published and declared by the said Ezra Alden as and for his last will and testament in presence of us who at his request and in his presence & in the presence of each other have subscribed our names as witnesses hereto.

                                                                                                                                                                Isaac Hersey

                                                                                                                                                                Sarah Dyer

                                                                                                                                                                Mary A. Clarke.

 

Presented for probate on the fourth Monday of Nov. 1867 by Bela Alden, of Abington, with William H. Capen and Cyrus Bates, of Abington, as sureties. Letters Testamentary were granted to Bela Alden on 25 Nov. 1867.

 

Spencer Vining, William H. Capen and Samuel Dyer were appointed to appraise the estate of Ezra Alden, late of Abington, on 14 Oct. 1867. His real estate was valued at $1400, and his personal estate totaled $433.25. Bela Alden, the executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 23 Nov. 1867.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 106, p. 37-38, from FHL microfilm #0555647, Vol. 124, p. 102, and Vol. 109, p. 193.

 

 

Will of Hannah Alden of Middleborough, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1732) *

Know all Men by these Presents that I Hannah Alden of the Town of Middleborough in the County of Plymouth in New-England Widow & Relict to John Alden late of Middleborough aforesd Deceased being at this present time very weak & full of Pain yet of Sound & disposing Memory & Understanding Blessed be God for the Same: and being Sensible of my Own Mortality, and knowing that it is Appointed for Man once to dy Do Make & ordain this to be my last Will & Testament to remain firm & inviolable forever, That is to Say first & principally I Recommend my Soul to God that gave it and my Body I Commit to ye Earth to be decently buried; Hoping to Recieve the Same in Glory at ye General Resurrection through the Merits of Jesus Christ—And as for my Outward Estate wherewith it has pleased God to bless me I Give & Dispose of the Same in Manner following: Imprimis I Give & Bequeath unto my five Daughters Thankfull Hannah Lydia Mary & Abigail to be equally Divided among them all my Wearing apparrell & moveable Estate that was left me by my late Husband John Alden to be at my Dispose They first Paying out of the Same all my just Debts & funeral Charges, also before the Division of ye Abovesd moveables there shall be taken out sufficient enough to pay for a Pair of Grave Stones for their father’s Grave and also for a Pair for my own Grave; and my Will is that my negro man Quâcoo be Sold as soon after my Decease as may be with Conveniency, and the Money which he may be Sold for I do Give and Bequeath unto my Son Noah Alden to be Improved for him in order to bring him up to Learning & my Will is that my loving Brother Benjamin White be Executr. to this my last Will & Testament. In Witness whereof I the Abovesaid Hannah Alden have hereunto Set my hand & Seal this Eighth Day of Septembr 1732 –

Signed Sealed & Declared by ye above named Hannah Alden to be her last Will & Testament

In Presence of us Thomas Knowlton

Elijah Knowlton   David Allen

Note before Signing ye one Word in ye Sixth one Word in the 10th & Some Words in ye 16th & 17th Lines were rasd out

                                                                                                                                                Hannah Alden                   (seal)

 

Proved on 1 Jan. 1732[/33] by Thomas Knowlton, Elijah Knowlton, and David Allen.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Mrs Hannah Alden of Middleborough, dated 5 Jan. 1732/3 and taken by Samuel Bennett, Thomas Knowlton, and John Weston, totaled £513.10.9, and was sworn to by Benjamin White, the Executor, on 5 Feb. 1732[/33].

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 6, p. 279-280, from FHL microfilm #0550512.

 

 

Will of Hannah Alden of Duxbury, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1739) *

In the Name of God Amen I Hannah Alden of Duxbourô in the County of Plimouth in New England Widow, being Very Sick and Weak of Body but of Perfect Mind and Memory, thanks be Given unto God therefor. Calling unto minde the Morality of my Body, and knowing that it is appointed for all Men once to Dye, do make and Ordain this my last Will and Testament that, is to Say, Principally and first of all, I give and Recomend my Soul into the Hands of God that gave it, and my Body I Recomend to the Earth, to be Buried, in Decent Christian Buriall, at the Discreation of my Executor, Nothing Doubting but at the Generall Resurection, I Shall Receive the Same again thrô the Mightly Power of God ~ and as Touching Such Worldly Estate where with it hath Pleased God to bless me in this Life; I Give, Demise and Dispose of the Same in the following Maner & Form

        Imprimis I give to my Son Judah all my Lands at Ashford in the Colony of Connecticut and a set of Gould Buttons,

        Item, I give to my Son Briggs all my Lands at Woodstock in the County of Worcester.

        Item. I give to my Two Daughters Anna and Abigail all my Wearing Cloaths.

        Item. I Likewise Constitute and Ordain my Son Judah my Sole Executor of this my Last Will and Testament Ratifieing and Confirming this and no other to be my last Will and Testament Ratifieing and Confirming this and no other to be my last Will and Testament.  In Witness whereof I have hereunto Set my Hand and Seal the first Day of February Anno Domini 1739

Signd. Seald, and Declared                                                                                                                Hannah Alden                   (seal)

        In Presence of

        Paletiah West

        Saml Weston

        Mathew Cushing

 

Proved on 5 Mar. 1739[/40] by Pelitiah West, Saml. Weston and Matthew Cushing, the witnesses. Judah Alden is called “of Duxbourô, Mariner” in the letter of administration. No inventory was recorded for her estate.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 8, p. 153-154, from FHL microfilm #0551531.

 

 

Will of Isaac Alden of Bridgewater, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1727) *

In ye Name of God amen: The twenty fourth day of aprill anno Domini 1727. I Isaac Alden Senr of Bridgewater in ye County of Plymouth In New: England Calling to mind ye mortality of my Body & knowing yt is appointed for all men once to dye, Doe make & ordain this my Last Will & Testament. First & Principally I give & Recomend my Soul into ye Hands of God yt gave it Hoping through ye meritts of my Saviour Jesus Christ to obtain ye Pardon of all my Sins & to Inherit Everlasting Life and my Body I Comitt to ye Earth to be decently buried at ye discretion of my Executors hereafter named Hoping at ye General Resurrection to Receive ye same again by ye almighty Power of God and as touching Such Worldly Estate Wherewith it hath Pleased God to bless me in this Life I give demise & dispose of ye same in ye following manner (viz)

First: I give & Bequeath to mehitable my well: beloved wife all my moveables & Personall Estate (Except ye Legacys to be mentioned for & during ye time of Her natural Life.

Item: I give to my Three Sons (viz) Isaac Alden; Ebenezer Alden; & John Alden besides what I formerly gave them by Deeds or other wise gave to them their Heirs & assignes for Ever my Right in ye Cedar Swamp at a place Called Majors’ Purchase and I Constitute & appoint my wife & my sd son Isaac Alden to be ye Executors of this my Last Will & Testament.

Item: I give to my Grand Children (the Children of my Daughter mehitable Richards deceased namely Joseph Richards, Daniel Richards, James Richards, mehitable Richards & Sarah Richards, to them I give twelve Pence a Peice to be Paid after my decease. And I give to my four Surviving Daughters namely Sarah Cary, Mary Webb, mercy Packard & Jemima Alden to them I give also five Shillings a Peice to be Paid to them after my decease

Item: And further as to what Shall Remain of my sd Personal Estate after ye decease of my wife: I give & dispose of ye same as followeth (viz) one fifth Part thereof to my daughter Sarah Cary, one fifth Part to my daughter mercy Packard; one fifth Part to my Daughter mary Webb; one fifth Part to my daughter Jemima Alden, & ye other Part thereof to my Grand:daughters mehitable Richards & Sarah Richards

Signed Sealed Pronounced &

declared by ye Sd Isaac Alden

to be His Last Will & Testament

In ye Presence of                                                                                                                  Isaac Alden        (seal)

                Joseph Edson

                James Cary

                Isaac Snow

 

Probated on 20 Oct. 1727, and proved by Joseph Edson, James Cary, and Isaac Snow. Letters of Administration on the estate of Isaac Alden, late of Bridgewater, granted to Mehitable Alden, Relict widow of said deceased, Isaac Alden, the son and one of the executors named in the will having declined the executorship.

 

The inventory of the estate of Isaac Alden, late of Bridgewater, states that he died on 24 June 1727. The inventory was dated 26 July 1727, appraised by Joseph Edson, James Cary, and Isaac Snow, and it included cattle, oxen, a horse, and half a right in six swine.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth Co. Probate Vol. 5, p. 344-345, from FHL microfilm #0550511.

 

 

Will of Isaac Alden of Bridgewater, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1773) *

In the Name of God amen, May the Eleventh one thousand Seven hundred & Seventy three I Isaac Alden of Bridgwater in the county of Plymouth in New England, yeoman, being advanced in age but of sound mind & memory, thanks be Given to God – calling to mind the mortality of my body & knowing that it is appointed for all men once to dye, Do make & ordain this my Last will and Testament that is to say – principally and first of all I Give & Recommend my Soul into the hand of God that Gave it, and my body I Recommend to the Earth to be buried in a decent Christian burial at the discretion of my Executor, nothing doubting but at the General Resurrection I shall Recieve the same again by the mighty power of God—and as touching such worldly Estate wherewith it hath pleased God to bless me with in this Life—I Give Demise & Dispose of the same in the following manner and form vizt

Imprimis—I Give & bequeath unto my brother Ebenezer Alden the sum of Thirteen pounds six shillings & eight pence to be paid him by my Executors hereafter named, in one year after my decease

Item—I Give & bequeath unto my two Sisters vizt Sarah Cary & Mercy Packard and to the heirs of my Sister Mehitable Richards deced and to the heirs of Jamima Whitman my Sister deced and to their heirs and assigns forever, the farm with the buildings thereon which I bought of Israel Bailey Lying on the Easterly Side of Beaver Brook so called in the Township of Bridgwater, and also a tract of Lands Lying on the Easterly side of the Lands I sold Ezra Alden deced, and adjoining the Lands of Daniel Kingman – also a Lot of Lands Lying on Snell’s plain adjoining to the abovesaid farm (which I bought of Israel Bailey) and and my will is that the abovesaid farm & buildings and Lands be equally divided into four parts as to Quantity & Quality & that my two Sisters above named or their heirs to have two parts thereof, and the heirs of my two Sisters above named deceased, the other two parts to be equally divided amongst them

Item—I Give & bequeath to Isaac Alden minor Son of Ezra Alden deceased Sixty Six pounds thirteen shillings & four pence in a Note of hand I have against John Bisbee of that sum bearing date September the twenty eighth 1771 and payable on the first day of April one thousand seven hundred & Eighty Four, if he should Live to the age of twenty one if Otherwise my will is that, that note when paid shall be equally divided between my two Sisters above named or their heirs, and the heirs of my two Sisters above named deced

Item—I Give & bequeath unto the two Eldest daughters of my brother John Alden deceased vizt Hannah & Kezia a Lott of Lands formerly Laid out to Deacon Fobes at a place called Peaked point also a Lot of Lands & bought of John Edson containing about Eight acres–also a Lot of Lands I bought of David Snow containing about five acres, also the sum of thirteen pounds Six Shillings & eight pence (to be paid by my Executors hereafter named) to be equally divided between them or their heirs, in one year after my decease

Item—I Give & bequeath unto Abigail Alden daughter to Isaac Alden deceased & Grand-daughter to my Brother John Alden deceased the sum of thirteen pounds six shilling & Eight pence to be paid to her by my Executors in one year after my decease

Item—I Give & bequeath unto my Nephew Jonathan Alden Son of my brother John Alden deceased all my wearing apparell and my Bed & Bedding, and all my farming tools & Indoor moveables

Item—I Give & bequeath unto my true & trusty friend John Orcutt of Bridgwater yeoman & to my friend David Kingman of sd. Bridgwater trader a Lot of Lands Lying in sd. Bridgwater in a swamp called black brook swamp, vizt to David Kingman aforesaid Ten acres, and the Remainder to the aforesaid John Orcutt, to them & their heirs & assigns forever – and I do hereby Constitute and appoint the above mentioned John Orcutt and David Kingman my Executors to this my Last will & testament unto whom I Give & bequeath all my Notes of hand & Securities for money and all my Quick Stock and all other my Estate not heretofore mentioned, they paying all my Just & honest Debts & funeral Charges & the Legacies before mentioned vizt to my brother Ebenezer Alden & Isaac Alden, Hannah & Kezia the daughters of my brother John Alden & Abigail Alden –and the Overpluss or Remainder if any there be after my Debts Funeral Charges & Legacies are paid, to be equally divided between my two Sisters before mentioned (or their heirs) and the heirs of my two deceased Sisters before-mentioned

And I Do hereby utterly disallow Revoke and disannull all and every Other of the former testaments wills Legacies & bequests & Executors by me in any wise before named willed & bequested–Ratifying & confirming this and no other to be my Last will & Testament—In witness whereof I hereunto Sett my hand & Seal the Day and year above written

Signed, Sealed published & declared

by the said Isaac Alden as his Last                                                                                  Isaac Alden                        (seal)

will & testament in the presence

of us the subscribers

                Joshua Barrell

                Joseph Beall

                Azariah Beall

 

Presented for probate on 5 Nov. 1781 by David Kingman, one of the Executors therein named, and proved by Joshua Barrell, one of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Simeon Brett of Bridgewater, administrator cum testament annexo, the before named Executor David Kingman having refused the Executorship, and John Orcutt, the other executor, being deceased.

 

Nathan Alden and Elisha Mitchell Gentm., and Josiah Richard, yeoman, all of Bridgwater, were appointed to appraise the estate of Isaac Alden, late of Bridgwater, on 5 Nov. 1781. The Inventory, dated 18 Jan. 1782, totaled £799.12.10½, including his farm in Bridgwater valued at £540. Simeon Brett, the administrator cum testamento annexo, gave his oath to the inventory on 4 Mar. 1782.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 28, pp. 214-216, 260-261, from FHL microfilm #0550715.

 

 

Will of Isaac Alden of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1835) *

        Be it remembered that I, Isaac Alden of Bridgewater County of Plymouth, being weak in body, but of sound & perfect mind and memory, blessed be Almighty God for the same, do make & publish this my last Will & Testament, in manner & form following, that is to say, first, – I give & bequeath unto my beloved Wife Minerva Alden, all my household furniture free and clear – Also I give and bequeath unto the said Minerva, my wife, after paying my just and lawful debts, the use of all my Estate, both Real & Personal, so long as she remains my widow; I do also give & bequeath to my daughter Minerva Ann Alden at the marriage of her mother (if that should happen) or at the decease of her mother, one third part of all my Estate, both Real & personal whatsoever, except the household furniture as above, to hold to her the said Minerva Ann Alden her heirs & assigns forever – I will & order that if my daughter Minerva Ann should marry previous to her coming into possession of the property as above (if she chooses) that there be paid to her the sum of two hundred dollars to be deducted with interest out of the third of my Estate which I bequeathed to her. And Lastly, I give and bequeath to my son Isaac Freeman Alden the remaining two thirds of my Estate, both real and personal, after his mother ceases to occupy as above, to hold to him the said Isaac Freeman Alden his heirs & assigns forever.

        I do hereby appoint Samuel Leonard Jr, together with my beloved wife, Minerva Alden my sole Executor & Executrix of this my last Will & Testament, hereby revoking all former Wills by me made.

                In Witness Whereof, I have hereunto set my hand & seal the thirty first day of August, in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred & thirty five.

                                                                                                                                                Isaac Alden                                        (seal)

        Signed, sealed, published and declared by the within named Isaac Alden to be his last Will and Testament, in the presence of us, who at his request and in his presence have hereunto subscribed our names as witnesses to the same.

        Samuel Leonard Jr

        Warren Hill

        Simeon W. Leonard.

 

Presented for probate on 4 Dec. 1835, and proved by Samuel Leonard Jr, Warren Hill and Simeon W. Leonard, the subscribing witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Samuel Leonard Jr. Esqr. and Minerva Alden, widow, both of Bridgewater, on 4 Dec. 1835.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Isaac Alden, late of Bridgewater, was appraised on 12 Jan. 1836 by Spencer Leonard, Philander Wood, and Simeon W. Mitchell, and totaled $3094.25, including his real estate valued at $2415. Samuel Leonard Jr and Minerva Alden, the Executors, gave their oath to the inventory on 5 Apr. 1836.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 77, p. 526-527, from FHL microfilm #0555264, and Vol. 78, p. 112-113.

 

 

Will of Isaiah Alden of Duxbury, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1840) *

In the name of God, Amen, I, Isaiah Alden of Duxbury in the County of Plymouth, Commonwealth of Massachusetts, do make and constitute the following my last Will and Testament revoking all others.

Firstly – I give and bequeath unto my Son Ichabod Alden Three Hundred and Fifty Dollars, as his full share of all my Estate.

I give and bequeath unto my Grand Children, Children of Isaiah Alden, late of Scituate, Deceased, Namely Isaiah Alden, Mary Alden Jr. Thomas Alden, Lydia Alden, what they have had is their full share of my Estate.

I give and bequeath unto my Daughter Mercy Alden one share in Duxbury Bank and Thirty Dollars a year to be paid her yearly.

I give and bequeath unto my Daughter Ruth, one share in Duxbury Bank and fifteen Dollars a year to be paid her yearly.

I give and bequeath unto my two aforesaid daughters Mercy and Ruth, one half of my Household Furniture and I give Two Thirds of the above said half to my Daughter Mercy and the other third of the above said half to my Daughter Ruth.

I give unto my aforesaid Daughters Mercy and Ruth jointly and severally with the improve of the South Westerly front room of my Dwelling House and the Bedroom adjoining the same and the Southerly Bedroom in the Chamber and a right in the Well room, and to take what water they want from the Well to wash and all other household business – and a right to heat their water in the set kettle, and a right to wash in the sink—and one third of the Buttery and what right they shall want in the Cellar and what right they shall want in the Oven and a right to pass to and from one place to the other where it shall be most convenient, and the least prejudicial and what wood they shall want for their own use, cut up, split and put in the Wood House – Also the use of one good Cow, keep Summer and Winter – and what Sauce they shall want for the Summer and Winter—and a chance to ride to public worship and the privilege as they always have had of riding elsewhere.

I give and bequeath unto my son James what he have already had and it shall be his full share in my Estate

I give and bequeath unto my Daughter Martha Delano wife of Elijah Delano, Jr, what she has already had, shall be her full share in my Estate

I give and bequeath unto my Son Benjamin Alden the remainder of all my Estate both Real and Personal wherever it may be found, by his paying all the above Bequeaths and all my just Debts.

I likewise appoint my son Benjamin Alden sole Executor of this my last Will and Testament.

In Witness whereof, I have hereunto set my Hand and Seal the Tenth day of January, in the year of our Lord, One thousand eight hundred and forty. 1840

                                                                                                                                                Isaiah Alden                      (seal)

Signed, sealed, published and declared by the above named Isaiah Alden, to be his last Will and Testament in the presence of us, who at his request, and in his presence have hereunto subscribed our names as Witnesses to the same

                                                                                                                                                Wadsworth Chandler

                                                                                                                                                Almira White  +

                                                                                                                                                Mercy W. Chandler  +

 

The last Will and Testament of Isaiah Alden late of Duxbury, Esquire, was presented for probate on the third Monday of May 1845 by Benjamin Alden, the Executor therein named, and proved by Almira White and Mary W. Chandler, two of the witnesses, Wadsworth Chandler being now deceased.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 87, p. 337-339, from FHL microfilm #0555638.

 

 

Will of James S. Alden of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1866) *

  In the name of God Amen, I James S. Alden of Bridgewater in the County of Plymouth and Commonwealth of Massachusetts, being of sound mind and memory, but, knowing the uncertainty of this life, do this third day of November, in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and sixty six, make and publish this my last will and testament in manner and form following, that is to say.

Item. I hereby give and bequeath to my wife Sarah L. Alden all my estate, real personal and mixed (except as hereinafter excepted,) to have and to hold the same to my said wife, for and during the period of her natural life.

Item. I give to my sons James Elbridge, George T. Isaac R. and Frederick C. and to Carrie Alden Burgess wife of Ebenezer Burgess, each the sum of fifty dollars, directing my Executrix hereinafter named to pay the same to the persons named out of my estate as soon as may be convenient after my decease.

Item. I hereby give and bequeath, after the decease of my said wife all the rest and residue of my estate real personal and mixed, to be equally divided among my sons above named, to have and to hold to them their heirs and assigns.

  I do hereby nominate and appoint my wife Sarah L. Alden to be Executrix of this my last will and testament.

        In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal, and publish and declare this to be my last will and testament, in the presence of the witnesses named below.

                                                                                                                                                James S. Alden                                 (seal)

Signed, sealed published and declared by the said James S. Alden, as and for his last will and testament, in presence of us, who in his presence and in presence of each other, and at his request, have hereunto subscribed our names as witnesses.

                                                                                Van R. Swift

                                                                                Lewis Holmes

                                                                                Lafayette Keith

 

Presented for probate on the fourth Monday of Jan. 1875 by Sarah L. Alden, of Bridgewater, with Lewis Holmes and Joshua E. Crane, of Bridgewater, as sureties. Letters Testamentary were granted to Sarah L. Alden, of Bridgewater, on 25 Jan. 1875.

 

Joshua E. Crane, Philip D. Kingman and Lewis Holmes, all of Bridgewater, were appointed to appraise the estate of James S. Alden, late of Bridgewater, on 25 Jan. 1875. His real estate was valued at $3500, and his personal estate totaled $7612.00. Sarah L. Alden, the executrix, gave her oath to the inventory on 13 Mar. 1875.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 141, p. 288-289, from FHL microfilm #0556648, Vol. 133, p. 243, and Vol. 145, p. 30.

 

 

Will of Jared Alden of Middleborough, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1872) *

Know all men by these presents, that I Jared Alden of Middleborough in the County of Plymouth and State of Massachusetts, Farmer, being of sound disposing mind and memory do make and publish this my last Will and Testament.

1st I give and bequeath to my Nephew William H. Alden two hundred dollars.

2th I give and bequeath to my nephew James M. Alden two lots of land know as the Rufus Alden lot and Alpheus Fobes lot situated on the West side of the road that passes by my dwelling house where I now live.

3th I give and bequeath to my nephew Charles F. Alden one hundred and fifty dollars.

4th I give and bequeath to my niece Emeline Alden one hundred and fifty dollars.

5th I give and bequeath to Hebsable Alden children three hundred dollars to be divided in equal shares between them.

6th I give and bequeath to my brother Daniel Aldens children five hundred dollars to be divided in equal shares between them.

7th I give and bequeath to my niece Sorena A. Barrows five hundred dollars.

8th I give and bequeath to Charles H. Alden one hundred dollars.

9th I give and bequeath to Ellen Kiney three hundred dollars – one Bed that she now occupies and one pine table.

10th I give and bequeath to Jully Cole one table and looking glass in the West parlow.

11th I give and bequeath to Mira E. Record the place that I bought of Obadiah Sampson and wife it being the same that Charles Lawrence has the improvement during his natural life.

12th And all the rest and residue of both personal and real Estate after payment of my debts and legacies I give and devise to William H. Alden, James M. Alden, Charles F. Alden, Emeline Alden, Daniel Alden’s children, Hepsable Aldens children, and Sorena A. Barrows to be divided in equal shares between them.

13th I do ordain and appoint my Nephew James M. Alden as Executor of this my last will and testament.

  In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand seal and publish and declare this to be my last will and testament in the presence of the Witnesses named below this twenty third day of April in the year of our Lord Eighteen hundred and seventy two.

                                                                                                                                                Jared Alden                                       (seal)

Signed, sealed, published, and declared by the said Jared Alden as and for his last will and testament in presence of us, who at his request and in his presence, and in the presence of each other, have subscribed our names as witnesses hereto.

                                                                                                                                Andrew L. Alden

                                                                                                                                Joshua D. Hemenway

                                                                                                                                Sidney H. Alden

 

James M. Alden, of Middleborough, was granted letters testamentary of the estate of Jared Alden, late of Middleborough, on 23 Sept. 1872, with Elijah E. Perkins and Solomon White, both of Middleborough, as sureties.

 

Andrew L. Alden, Elijah E. Perkins and Shadrach A. Sampson, all of Middleborough, were appointed to appraise the estate of Jared Alden, late of Middleborough, on 23 Sept. 1872. His real estate was valued at $3050, and his personal estate totaled $2248.58. James M. Alden, the executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 10 Apr. 1873.

 

James M. Alden, administrator on the estate of Jared Alden, late of Middleborough, notified the court that the estate was insufficient for the payment of its debts, and Cornelius B. Wood and Noah C. Perkins were appointed to examine the claims against the estate on 10 Nov. 1873. Charles H. Lawrence submitted a claim for $6498, among others. Allowed claims totaled only $232.98.

 

James M. Alden, executor of the will of Jared Alden, late of Middleborough, applied for license to sell $2202 of the real estate for the payment of his debts, which was granted on 12 Apr. 1875.

 

 * Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 140, p. 453-454, from FHL microfilm #0556648, Vol. 133, p. 34, Vol. 109, p. 491, Vol. 127, p. 101-102, and Vol. 126, p. 39.

 

 

Will of John Alden of Middleborough, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1730) *

Know all Men by these Presents that I John Alden of ye Town of Middleborough in ye County of Plymo. in New-England being at this present time very Sick & weak yet of sound & disposing Memory & understanding Blessed be God for ye Same: and being Sensible of my own Mortality, and knowing that it is appointed for all Men once to dy, Do make & Ordain this to be my last Will & Testament to remain firm & inviolable forever That is to Say, First & principally Irecommend my Soul to God that gave it And my Body I Commit to the Earth to be decently buried, Hoping to recieve the same in Glory at the General Resurrection thro ye merits of Jesus Christ: And as for my Outward Estate Wherewith it hath pleased God to bless me, I Give & Dispose of ye Same in manner following — Imprims I Give & Bequeath unto my loving Wife Hannah Alden One third part of all my moveable Estate whatsoever and one third Part of all the Debts due unto Me my just Debts & funeral Charges being first paid out of my moveable Estate, the Same to be for her comfortable Susbistance and to be at her own disposing: Also I Give & Bequeath unto my sd Wife the Whole use & Improvement of my Dwelling House Barn & Out houses during her Widowhood — Also I give unto my sd Wife the whole use & Improvement of all the Lands which by this my last Will I Give to my Son John Alden, during her Widowhood: Always Provided that if She remains a Widow until my sd Son John comes to ye Age of Twenty one Years then from that time forward She shall have the use and Improvement of but one half of sd Dwelling house barn & outhouses, and ye use and Improve of but one third part of ye abovesd Land given to my Son John during her Widowhood: Item. whereas I have formerly given unto my Son David Alden (by Deed of Gift) fifty acres of Land together with other things which I have given him & done for him: I Give unto him more my Share in ye land called ye 80 acres belonging to Pachade Men being in Number the fourth Share therein: Item I Give & Bequeath unto my Son Joseph Alden a Certain Parcell of my Homestead Land bounded as followeth: Beginning at a red Oak tree being a former bound of my Son David Aldens Land standing to ye Eastward of his House, and from thence ranging on a Strait line cross my field to a Small white Oak tree marked standing on the Northerly Side of the Way that leads from my sd House to Titticutt, and from thence bounded by the Northerly Side of sd Way towards my House unto a stake & stones standing on the Northerly Side of sd Way near the ditch field bar, and from thence on a Strait line to a Stump with Stones about it mentioned in the agreement between my Self & Joseph Warren & from sd Stump on a Strait Line to the white Oak tree being ye South East Corner bound of ye Lot of Land in the Neck which I bought of Joseph Warren & from thence by ye Line of sd Lot unto Namasket River and from thence bounded by ye River down thereon to ye Land of David Alden & from thence by sd David Aldens Land to the red Oak tree first Mentioned: And also one other Parcell of Land bounded as followeth Beginning at ye Small white Oak tree marked Standing on ye Northerly Side of the Way that leads from my house to Titticutt before Mentioned and from thence on a Straight line to the North East Corner of ye Land which Barnabas Eaton bought of Joseph Warren, and from thence bounded by ye sd Eatons Land unto a Small white Oak marked Standing on the Northerly Side of the Cart Way between sd Eatons house and the Cansey and from thence on a Strait Line  to the little Cansey and from thence as the Cart Way now goeth on the Southerly Side of ye little Swamp that is to ye Southward of my house until it comes to ye Southerly End of sd Swamp and from thence on a Strait line to a Cedar Stake standing on ye Southerly Side of the aforesd Way that leads from my house to Titticutt, and from thence to the Small white Oak first Mentioned: Item I Give & Bequeath unto my Son John Alden all my homestead land & meadow which lye there joyning together on the Easterly Side of ye aforesd land given to my Son Joseph Alden Always Reserving to my aforesd Wife the Use & Improvement of ye Dwelling house Barn & Outhouses & of all the aforesd Land given to my sd Son John according as is above Expressed: Also I Give unto ye sd Son John my Share in ye Land called ye 80 Acres belonging to Pachade Men being in Number the fifth share therein: (And my Will is that my Son John shall pay as a Legacy unto my Son Noah Alden, & unto my five daughters Thankfull Easton Hannah Wood Lydia Alden Mary Alden & Abigail Alden unto Each of them Sixteen Pounds within Six Years after he comes to ye Age of twenty one Years:) And my Will is that my aforesd Son Joseph shall pay as a Legacy unto my aforesaid Son Noah And my aforesd Daughters Thankful, Hannah, Lydia, Mary & Abigail to Each of them fourty Shillings within Six Years after he comes to the Age of twenty one Years: Item I Give & Bequeath unto my Son Ebenezer Alden fourty Acres of Land lying next adjoyning to ye Corner Side of my Son David Alden’s Land and to Extend so far down ye River as that a Line square from ye Line of my Land to ye River shall include fourty acres: And also twenty acres of Land adjoying to ye South West side of ye last mentioned of the two Parcells of Land given to my Son Joseph — And also my Will is that there be a piece of Land left for a Burying Place within the aforesd twenty acres to be bounded beginning at the Westerly Corner bound of the fourty acre Lot which was Joseph Warrens & to Extend to ye Grave Stones of my Son Lemuel and to be 4 Pole in Bread on the Northerly Side of sd Line, Sd Piece of Land to be perpetually Reserved for that Use, And instead thereof there shall be Allowance made in Setting out sd 20 Acres of ye like Quantity — Itm I Give & Bequeath unto my three Sons Joseph John & Ebenezer All my Right & Interest of Cedar Swamp in the Purchase called ye Six & twenty Mens Purchase to be equally divided among them: Item I Give & Bequeath unto my five Daughters Thankfull Hannah Lydia Mary & Abigail the other two thirds of all my moveable Estate, And also two thirds of all ye Debts due unto Me, my just Debts & funeral charges being first paid out of my Moveable Estate, the same to be equally Divided among them, Save only to my Daughters Thankfull & Hannah, fifty Pounds less than their equal Proportion they having already recieved so much of my Estate: Item, I Give & Bequeath unto my loving Wife Hannah Alden my Negro Man to be at her own Disposing, And my Will is that my Son Noah should be brought up to Learning at the Colledge, And my Will is that ye Executors of this my last Will & Testament shall Sell all my Land which I have not herein particularly given away & disposed of, to ye best advantage that they can to defray the Charge thereof: And in Case that ye Value of sd Land be more than is necessary for ye defraying of ye Charge thereof that the Remainder be equally Divided between my Six Children Noah, Thankfull, Hannah, Lydia, Mary & Abigail: And my Will is that my well beloved Wife Hannah Alden & my Son David Alden shall be Executors of this my last Will & Testament — In Witness whereof I the aforesd. John Alden have hereunto Set my hand & seal this twenty third day of September One thousand Seven hundred & thirty: 1730 —

Signed Sealed & declared                                                                                                  John Alden                                         (seal)

by ye Abovenamed John

Alden to be his last Will

and Testament In

The Presence of us

Thomas Knowlton

Barnabas Eaton

Jacob Tomson

December the 17: 1730. The Within named Thomas Knowlton & Jacob Tomson made oath that they saw ye above named John Alden Sign Seal & heard him declare this Instrument to be his last Will & Testament And that they at ye Same time Time Together with Barnabas Eaton in ye Presence of the Testator Set to their hands as Witnesses, And that according to the Best of their observation he then was of a sound & disposing Mind & Memory Before Isaac Winslow

                                                                                                                                                Judge of Probate

Decembr the 18: 1730: The Within named Barnabas Eaton made oath that he saw ye Within named John Alden Sign Seal & heard him declare the within written Instrument to be his last Will & Testament…

 

Letters of Administration were granted on 3 April 1731 to Hannah Alden, Relict Widow of John Alden, late of Middleborough, David Alden, the other Executor named, having renounced the executorship.

 

Ezra Clap, Samll Barrows Junr. & Barnabas Eaton were appointed to appraise the inventory of the estate of John Alden, late of Middleboro, deceased, and the inventory, dated 13 Jan. 1730/1, was valued at £2893.- 5 - 6.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 5, pp. 842-845, 829-831, from FHL microfilm #0550511.

 

 

Will of John Alden of Bridgewater, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1759) *

In The name of God amen The 28th Day of March in the year of our lord 1759 I John Alden of Bridgwater in the County of Plymouth in new England Calling to minde the Mortallity of my bodey Do make and ordain this my last will & Testament that is To Say principally & first of all I give & Recommend My Sole into the hands of God that Gave it hopeing through the marets Death & Pasion of my Savour Jesus Crist to have full & free Pardon of all my Sins & To Inheret Everlasting life and my bodey I Commit To the Earth To be Decently Buried at the Discresion of my Executor here after named nothing Doubting but at the General Resurrection I shall Receive the Same again by the mighty Power of god and as Tho week in bodey but of Perfect minde & memory I Do dispose of Such worldly Estate as it hath Pleasd. God To bless me with in the manner following that is To Say I will that my Just Debts be onestly Paid by my Execurx hereafter named  I Give To my well beloved wife Rebeckah Alden whome I Constitute and appoint and ordain my only and Sole Executor of this my last will & Testament the Improvement of all my Estate Both Real & Personal for her Support and Bringing up the Children until my son John arrive to the age of twenty one years and then To be Equaly Devided amongst the then Surviving Children Preserving to My wife one Third Part both Real & Personal out of the same so long as She Remains my widdow then To be Equally Devided to my then Surviveing Children I also will that my Executrix Pay out of my Estate before or at the time of the Devision unto my Grand Daughter Nabby Alden Six pounds Thirteen shillings & four Pence if then Living And I Do Ratify and Confirm this To be my last will & Testament In Witness whereof I have hereunto Set my hand & Seal the year & Day Above written

Signed Sealed Pronounced and Declared                                                                        John Alden                         (seal)

by the Said John Alden as his last

will & Testament in the Presence of us

Recompence Cary

William Burrel

Ichabod Cary

 

Probated on 27 Apr. 1759, and proved by William Burrell and Ichabod Cary, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration granted to Rebeckah Alden of Bridgwater, the Executrix, on 27 Apr. 1759.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of John Alden, late of Bridgewater, was appraised by Ebenezer Alden, Nathan Beall and Zacharias Shaw on 24 May 1759, but not totaled. His house lot with the buildings was valued at £266.13.4, and a wood lot was valued at £43.6.8. The appraisers gave their oath to the inventory on 25 May 1859, and Rebecca Alden, the administratrix on the estate, gave her oath to the inventory on 3 Nov. 1760.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 15, p. 284-286, and Vol. 16, p. 26-27, both from FHL microfilm #0551543.

 

 

Will of John Alden of Duxbury, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1847) *

                I John Alden of Duxbury in the County of Plymouth and Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Ship-wright, being weak of body, but of sound and disposing mind and memory, do make and publish this my last Will and Testament.

                And my Will is, 1st that after my decease, my body shall be decently buried, and that my funeral charges and all my just debts shall be paid by my executor hereinafter named.

2d  I give and devise to my grand daughter, Deborah A. Ford ten dollars, to be paid by my executor within one year after my decease.

3d  I give and devise, to my two sons Ichabod Alden and Samuel Alden and to their heirs, all the rest and residue of my estate, both real, personal and mixed of every name and nature, of which I shall die seized and possessed, or to which I shall be entitled at the time of my decease.

  Lastly, I nominate and appoint my oldest son Ichabod Alden to be the sole executor of this my last Will and Testament.

                In testimony whereof, I the said John Alden have, to this my last Will and Testament, subscribed my name and affixed my seal, this sixth day of October, in the year of our Lord 1847.

                                                                                                                                                John Alden                                         (seal)

Sign’d, seal’d, & declared by the sd. John Alden, to be his last Will & Testament in presence of us, who at his request & in his presence have subscribed our names as witnesses hereto.

                Joseph F. Wadsworth

                Isaac Torrey

                Andrew Sampson

 

Presented for probate on the second Monday of Aug. 1854 by Ichabod Alden, the Executor therein named, and proved by Joseph F. Wadsworth and Isaac Torrey, two of the witnesses whose names are subscribed thereto. Letters of Administration with the Will annexed were granted to Joseph F. Wadsworth on 14 Aug. 1854, the Executor therein named having declined the trust. No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 96, p. 318-319, from FHL microfilm #0555642.

 

 

Will of John Alden 2nd of Duxbury, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1852) *

In the name of God Amen. I, John Alden 2nd of Duxbury, in the County of Plymouth, being of feeble health, and weak in body, but of sound mind, memory & understanding & being desirous to settle my worldly affairs while I have strength & capacity so to do, do make and publish this my last will & testament in manner following, to wit:

First, I hereby direct my Executrix hereafter named to pay all my just debts, & the expenses of my last sickness.

Secondly. I give to my son John Alden One dollar.

Thirdly. I give to my daughter Mary W. Cushman wife of David Cushman Jr. One dollar.

Fourthly, I give to my son Henry Alden One dollar.

Fifthly. I give to my wife Mary Alden all the rest and remainder of my property, both Real & Personal, to be disposed of at her discretion, either during her natural life, or at her decease; and I do hereby appoint her my sole Executrix of this my last will & testament.

        In witness whereof, I have hereunto set my hand & seal this Twenty Eighth day of May, in the year of our Lord One thousand Eight hundred & fifty two.

                                                                                                                                                John Alden 2d                                    (seal)

Signed, Sealed, published & declared by the said John Alden 2d as & for his last Will & Testament in the presence of us, who at his request, & in his presence & in the presence of each other have subscribed our names as witnesses the day & year above written.

                                                                                                Samuel Stetson

                                                                                                Barker Hunt

                                                                                                Humbleton E. Smith

 

Mary Alden, of Duxbury, was granted letters testamentary on the estate of John Alden 2d, late of Duxbury, on 9 Oct. 1871, with Hambleton E. Smith and F. P. Sherman, both of Duxbury, as sureties. No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 140, p. 271, from FHL microfilm #0556648, and Vol. 124, p. 459.

 

 

Will of Joseph Alden of Bridgewater, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1696) *

These are to publish and Declare to all whome it may concern that I Joseph Alden Senr of ye Town of Bridgwater in ye County of Plimouth in New England being of sound judgment and memory Do ordain and make my last will and Testament in maner following my Immortall soul I do Humbly Resign into ye mercyfull hands of Almighty God my creator hoping through ye merrits and mediation of Jesus Christ to obtain pardon and Salvation my Body I commit to ye Earth from whence it was to be Decently Interred at ye Discretion of my Executors and the Rest of my Christian friends And as Touching Such Worldly Estate as God hath Blessed me withall I Dispose of it in maner and forme as followeth.

I Give to my son Isaac fifty Acres of Land which he Lives upon. further I Give him Ten acres more which I gave him Liberty to take up: more Ten Acres of Swamp. more five acres of upland which he hath taken up in Lieu of the upland belonging to Coasters Kitchen meadows. one Acre more of meadow at Byrams hole which he hath to thereto Enjoyed more I give to him Half my meadow Lott in Byrams hole In consideration whereof my Will is that he allow to my son – Joseph Three acres out of the aforementioned ten acres of Swamp further I Give to my Son Isaac Half my Sixty acres of Land between Byrams Hole and the Sawmill All which Lands above mentioned I Say I Give to him and to his heirs and Assigns for Ever.

Item I Give to my Son Joseph the Land whereupon he lives of which have already Given him Assurance by written Deed. further I give to him Twenty Acres lying upon the Great River Below Goodman Bayleys Land. Further I Give Between my two sons Joseph and John Ten Acres of Land to be taken up to be Equally Divided Between them Which said Lands as aforesaid I Give to him and to his Heirs and Assigns for Ever. Item I Give to my Dear Wife my Homestead With all the Housing thereupon and all my other lands joyning thereunto more I Give unto her Ten acres of Land upon the plains more two wood lots lying on the Left hand of ye way to Thomas Washbourns And my Will is that my Son John Shall have the use and Improvement thereof for his and my Wife’s Comfort during her life time And that after her decease my Son John Should Enjoy it all Together with half my Sixty Acres above mentioned lying near the Sawmill And half my Lott of meadow in Byrums hole All which parcels of Land I Say I do give to him and to his heirs and Assigns for Ever: Further I Give All my moveables to my Wife to Dispose of as she shall so cause I Give to my three sons Isaac Joseph and John all my Right and Interest in ye Majors Purchase and Also in ye undivided lands belonging to my purchase Right to be Equally Divided amongst them And finally I do Constitute make and ordaine Mary my wife Executrix & my son John Joynt Executor of this my last Will & Testament utterly Renouncing Revoking & Disclayming all other wills and Testaments whatsoever In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and Seal this fourteenth Day of December in ye year of our Lord one thousand Six hundred ninety and Six.

Signed Sealed pronounced and declared in the presence                                                             Joseph Alden senr

of us ye Subscribers viz                                                                                                      his õmark  &  a                   (seal)

Pallatiah Smith

Thomas Delano

Joseph Hayward

 

Memorandum Pallatiah Smith Thomas Delano and Joseph Hayward the Witnesses here named appeared and made oath before Wm Bradford Esqr Judge of Probate on ye 10th day of March 1696/7 That they were present & saw & heard Joseph Alden the Testator above named Sign Seal & declare ye Instrument above written to be his last will And that to ye best of their Judgment he was of sound disposing mind & memory when he did the same

 

Letters of Administration granted to Mary his wife and John his Son, Executors, on 10 Mar. 1696/7.

 

The Inventory of ye estate of Joseph Alden senr who deceased ye 8th of Februy 1696/7

This Inventory taken which is ye movable Estate of ye abovesd Joseph Alden deceased by us this 3d of March 1696/7. Total Sum £76.1.

John Leonard

Joseph Snow

Samuel Allin Junr

 

John Alden one of ye Executors of ye Last Will & Testament of Joseph Alden Late of Bridgewater deceased made oath before William Bradford Esqr Judge &c on ye 10th day of March 1696/7 that the above Written is a true Inventory of ye Goods Chattels & Credits of the said Deceased so far as he yet Knoweth and that if more shall come to his Knowledge he will Cause it to be added.

                                                                                                                                Attest Saml Sprague Register

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 1, p. 256.

 

 

Will of Joseph Alden of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1803) *

In the Name of God Amen.— I, Joseph Alden of Bridgwater in the County of Plymouth, Gentleman, being of a sound & disposing mind & memory, do make this my last will & testament –vizt– I recommend my soul to God, who gave it, & my body to the earth, to be buried, with decent christian burial, at the discretion of my Executors hereafter named & with respect to my worldly Goods & Estate, I give & bequeath the same, in manner following vizt.

Imprimis.—I Give and bequeath unto my dearly beloved wife Bethiah Alden, my great bible, all my indoor moveables & my quick stock, to be hers forever, also, during ye time she shall continue my widow, the use & improvement of one third part of my homestead, with the buildings thereon not including in sd homestead any part of the lands, I purchased of Cornelius Thayer & Ebenezer Thayer; and I further give her, during the minority of my son Seth, the whole use & improvement of my said homestead, including my cedar swamp in Halifax; provided however, that my said wife shall, out of the improvement thereof stand charged with the expence of educating my son Cyrus at College, and shall defray all reasonable expences in educating him, and that the same may not be too burthensome, I hereby give to my said wife, a right, annually to call on my three sons, Joseph, Daniel & Thomas, to pay her sixty Dollars a year, during the four years, my said son Cyrus shall remain an undergraduate at College, & the estate of my said three sons Joseph, Daniel & Thomas, given them in this will is hereby made chargeable with such payment—and the Estate hereby given in this will to my son Seth, is hereby made chargeable with such sums as shall be demanded & recieved of my said three sons Joseph, Daniel & Thomas, and he, the said Seth shall repay the same to the said Joseph, Daniel & Thomas within one year after he shall arrive to the age of twenty one years, and in any case, it shall be a debt on his estate, & repayment made out of the same

Item.—I Give & bequeath unto my son Joseph Alden the lands & buildings, I purchased of Cornelius Thayer & Ebenezer Thayer, also Ten acres of land I purchased of Timothy Hayward, also, my Ivory headed cane, to him & his heirs & assigns forever –

Item—I Give & bequeath to my son Daniel Alden, all the lands that I am seized of, that I purchased of the Executors of the last will & testament of Francis Perkins, late of Bridgwater deceased, including the reversion of the widow Philibert Perkins’s Dower or thirds; also a pair of gold sleeve buttons, to him, his heirs & assigns forever. –

Item.—I give & bequeath unto my son Thomas Alden, my lands at beach neck, so called, also ten acres of land adjoining ye same that I purchased of David Johnson, also, a lot containing eighteen acres, more or less, adjoining the same, that I purchased of Ebenezer Caldwell, also my sword, he, the said Thomas paying to my aforesaid son Daniel five thousands feet of boards within one year from the time of my decease, to him, his heirs & assigns forever –

Item.—I give & bequeath unto my son Cyrus Alden, a liberal education at College, to be provided for him out of the improvement of my homestead, together with such other provisions therefor as has been already expressed – also a good Horse, saddle & bridle, when his education at College shall be compleated. –

Item—I Give & bequeath to my son Seth Alden, my Homestead together with my cedar swamp in Halifax, to him, his heirs & assigns forever, reserving the improvement of the whole to my wife during his minority, and of one third to my wife during the time she shall continue my widow, and the same estate hereby given, is further chargeable with the repayment of such sums as may be made chargeable thereto in educating my son Cyrus in manner as has been expressed, and it is also made chargeable with the repayment of legacies, to be paid by my Executors, who shall in the same manner as repayment is provided for in the case of Cyrus recover the amount of such legacies, as they shall pay of my said son Seth, within one year after he shall arrive to the age of twenty one years, and in any case, his estate shall answer the same

Item.—I Give & bequeath unto my Daughter Mehitabel Mitchell, the wife of Thomas Mitchell, one Dollar.

Item—I Give & bequeath unto my other three Daughters Eunice Alden, Bethiah Alden & Betsey Alden, to each of them Two feather beds, with furniture, one Cow & thirty Dollars in Cash, the money to be on Interest from the time of my decease and the whole payable to them respectively, as they shall be married or arrive to the age of eighteen years.

Item.—I Give & bequeath to my two sons Joseph & Daniel, the Cedar swamp in Pembroke, which I hold in common & undivided, with Oliver Alden, to them, their heirs & assigns forever.

Item—I Give & bequeath to my four sons, Joseph, Daniel, Thomas & Seth, my farming utensills, to be equally divided among them. –

Item—I Give & bequeath my wearing apparell & my books my great bible excepted, to my five sons aforesaid to be equally divided between them.

Item.—I Give & bequeath to my wife & each of my Daughters so long as they shall continue unmarried, each, a seat in my Pew on the ground floor of the meeting house, & the remainder & reversion, together with my Pew in the gallery, to be equally the property of Joseph, Daniel, Thomas & Seth aforesaid.

Item—It is my will, that, my grain, Cash on hand, securities & debts due to my estate, be appropriated to discharge my just debts, funeral expences & settlement of my estate. –

Item—I hereby constitute & appoint my two eldest sons Joseph Alden & Daniel Alden joint Executors of this my last will & testament, and hereby order them to pay the legacies, the same to be refunded to them out of the estate of Seth as has already been expressed.—And they together with Thomas are enjoined to procure assistance to their mother in educating Cyrus, in manner, as has been mentioned already, and their several estates are hereby made chargeable with the same, and they to be refunded in manner as has been expressed – Ratifying & confirming this to be my last will & testament, and disallowing all wills heretofore by me made

        In Testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand & seal the thirtieth day of March in ye year of our Lord, one thousand, eight hundred & three. –

Signed Sealed, Published &                                                                                              Joseph Alden                                     (seal)

Declared by ye sd Joseph Alden

to be his last will & testament in

presence of us –

                Beza Hayward

                Caleb Alden

                Benjamin Clark

 

Bridgwater May 7th 1804 — This certifies that I acquiesce in the provision that my husband made for me in his will –

Attest Daniel Alden                                                                                                             Bethiah Alden

 

Presented for probate on 2 May 1803 by Joseph Alden & Daniel Alden, the Executors therein named, and proved by Beza Hayward Esqr. & Benjamin Clark, two of the witnesses.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 38, p. 318-321, from FHL microfilm #0550720.

 

 

Will of Joshua Alden of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1808) *

        In the Name of God amen I Joshua Alden of Bridgwater in the County of Plymouth being avanced in Years & suffering under some Indisposition of Body, but through the Blessing of God being of sound Mind & Memory do this thirtieth day of May in the Year of our Lord one Thousand eight hundred & eight, make & ordain this my last Will & Testament in Manner & form Following – that is to say —

        I give & bequeath unto my well beloved Wife Mary the use & Improvement of one half of my Dwelling house & one half of the House Lot containing about forty acres in the whole being all the Land on the northerly side of the Road for & during her natural Life, and I do also give her the use & Improvement of one half of all the other Buildings & Privileges on said Lot & any way appertaining to the same during her natural Life, & also all the Household Furniture as her own proper Estate forever.

—    I give & devise unto the Children of my Brother Jonathan Alden deceased, all obligations, Notes & other Evidences of Debt, which I hold against him his Heirs or Estate & one undivided fifth part of all my Estate not otherwise herein disposed of, said fifth part to be equally divided between them, to hold to them their Heirs & assigns forever —

—    I give & devise unto the Children of my Brother Eleazer Alden deceased & the three Children of Martha Blossom deceased, one undivided fifth part of all my Estate, not otherwise herein disposed of, equally to be divided between them, said Blossom’s Children taking together one share only, to have & to hold to them their Heirs & assigns forever —

—    I give & devise unto my Brother David Alden his Heirs & assigns one undivided tenth part of all my Estate, not otherwise herein disposed of, & one third part of my wearing apparel, & one third part of my Books, & unto his Son Isaac Alden I give & forgive all the Notes of hand or other demands for Money, which I hold against him. —

—    I give & devise unto my Brother Ezra Alden his Heirs & Assigns forever, one undivided fifth part of all my Estate not otherwise herein disposed of, & one third part of my wearing apparel & of my Books & also a certain Note of hand, which I hold against him amounting to about two hundred & eighty three Dollars —

—    I give & devise unto my Brother Timothy Alden his Heirs and Assigns forever, all the Notes of hand I hold against him, & his Sons or either of them, one third part of all my books & of my wearing Apparel, and also, one undivided fifth part of all my Estate not otherwise herein disposed of —

—    I give & devise unto the South precinct of Bridgwater one undivided tenth part of my Estate not otherwise herein disposed of to be appropriated used & applied in the following Manner, to wit, one hundred Dollars thereof to the exclusive use & benefit of the Church, over which the Revd. Mr Sanger is now Pastor, & to be under the sole direction & Controul of the Church, two hundred Dollars thereof to the exclusive use & benefit of Church Singing or Psalmody to be directed & managed for that purpose only in such Manner as the parish or Precinct may from time to time order; & the remainder & residue thereof to be placed & deposited in the Funds & Treasury of said Precinct for the support & Maintenance of the Gospel Ministry to be used & appropriated in the same Manner as the present Fund of said precinct —

        And I do now constitute ordain & appoint my said Wife Mary & Mr Solomon Hayward to be Executors of this my last Will & Testament. In Testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand & Seal the day and year first above written. —

signed sealed published & declared by the

Testator as his last Will & Testament in

the presence of us who in his presence

& in the presence of each other hereto set                                                                      Joshua Alden                                     (seal)

our Names as Witnesses at his request –

        Silvanus Lazell

        Jno. Marston Goodwin

        Nahum Mitchell

 

Presented for probate on 4 April 1809 by Solomon Hayward, one of the Executors therein named, Mary Alden, the other having refused said Trust, and proved by Jno Marston Goodwin and Nahum Mitchell, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Solomon Hayward, the before named Executor.

 

Samuel Shaw Esqr., Nathaniel Pratt and Benjamin Pope, Gentlemen, all of Bridgwater, were appointed to appraise the Estate of Joshua Alden, late of Bridgwater, Gentleman, on 4 Apr. 1809. The Inventory of the Estate of Joshua Alden, late of Bridgwater, not dated, totaled $6996.18, including his homestead in Bridgwater containing about 41 acres of land valued at $1551, a lower lot containing about 54 acres valued at $1710, and several other parcels of land, plus notes and securities that were given away in the will valued at $891.71. The appraisers gave their oath to the inventory on 24 Apr. 1809, and Solomon Hayward, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 1 May 1809.

 

Samuel Shaw Esqr., Nathaniel Pratt, Gentleman, and Benjamin Pope, Gentleman, all of Bridgwater, were appointed to set off one third part of the real estate of Joshua Alden, late of Bridgwater, Gentleman, deceased, unto this Widow Mary Alden as her Dower in said real estate, on 1 May 1809. The division, dated 28 June 1809, was approved on 3 July 1809.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 42, p. 458-463, from FHL microfilm #0550902, and Vol. 43, p. 5-6.

 

 

Will and Codicil of Judah Alden, Esq., of Duxbury, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1843) *

In the name of God, Amen, I, Judah Alden of Duxbury in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Esquire, do make, ordain, and declare this to be my last Will and Testament – first in consideration of the help and attention that I have received from my daughter Lucia S Smith, and her husband Silvanus Smith, provided all accounts and demands between us at the time of my death shall be cancelled, I then give to her the said Lucia S. Smith, the following Real Estate, except what shall hereafter be excepted, namely, beginning at the south east corner of my house lot adjoining Benjamin Smith’s Land – thence running round by the South and West side of a road to James T. Ford and Co. land thence an eastly, northerly, and westerly course, by said Ford’s Juddediah Southworths land, to said Ford’s land – thence by Ford’s, David Cushman’s land a northerly course to the south side of a road – thence an easterly course till it comes opposite the south easterly corner of Cyrus Churchills house lot – thence a south course to a road that runs through my farm – thence a Westerly course by the north side of said road, till it comes five rods west of a bridge – thence across the road, a southerly course to a corner, a little above the head of a ditch to Benjamin’s son land thence round a West and Southerly course by said Smith’s Land to the bounds first mentioned, with all the buildings thereon. Except I give to my daughter Mary Ann, the use of the north chamber with all the furniture therein, with such other privileges about the house as may be necessary – with fireing, to be found her by S Smith and Wife. I also give to Silvanus Smith and Lucia his wife a wood lot that I bought of Thomas Oldham that joins land of the heirs of Ezra Wilmot & others – also a piece of Salt-Meadow that lays above the head of Indian Creek to the westward of a small creek, that runs into Indian creek, from the most easterly bend of said small creek, a northerly course to east way to the south side of Mill river, about two or three rods east of Long Island.

It is also my Will, that my son John occupy my Store as long as he chooses.

                After my debts are paid, it is then my Will, that whatever of my, Real or Personal Estate may remain, may be divided, as follows That my son John have one share – that my eldest son Brigg’s children, all together have one share, and that they take in their share, a five acre lot of Salt Meadow that lies nigh Rouse’s hummuck namely, William, Lydia, Judah Samuel, Amherst, that my daughter Welthea James, wife of William James, my Grand daughter Mercy A. Welsh wife of Robert W. Welsh, have one share between them – that my daughter Mary Ann have two shares, and my son Samuel one share to be divided among them in such way and manner, as they can agree on, so as to accommodate them in the best way.

And I do appoint Silvanus Smith my Executor. In witness of all and each of the things herein contained – I have hereunto set my hand and Seal the sixth day of Decr. in the year of our Lord, one thousand eight hundred and forty three.

                                                                                                                                                Judah Alden                                      (seal)

Signed, sealed, and declared by the above named Judah Alden, to be his last Will and Testament, in presence of us, who in presence of the testator, and of each other, have hereunto subscribed our names ass Witnesses.

                                                                                                                                                John Porter

                                                                                                                                                Benjn. Smith, Jr.

                                                                                                                                                Sarah L. Smith

 

I Judah Alden of Duxbury, in the State of Massachusetts Esqr, do make, ordain and declare this Instrument to be a Codicil to my last Will and Testament – First, instead of my son John, having one share of what may be left of my Estate, after my debts are paid, I now give one half of that share to my late son Briggs children, as described in my Will – and I now give to him my son John, the house he now lives in with all the buildings attached to it – also the land, beginning two rods east of the south east corner of the north pasture, by land that I have given to my daughter Lucia S. Smith, thence a Southerly course to the North end of a pond – thence on a ridge that runs to the south end of the pond, a southerly course to a swamp where, not may years ago stood a pole fence – thence by, where said fence stood, to land now occupied, owned by Samuel A. Frazer – thence a Westerly course by said Frazer’s land and Benjamin Smith’s ‘sland to Lucia S. Smith’s land, and round a North and East course by her land, the first mentioned bounds.

Secondly – I now take from May Ann one half of one share that I gave her in my Will – and give to my daughter Lucia Smith, for her to take in household furniture, or any other moveable, as she may choose In witness of all and each of the things herein contained – I have hereunto set my hand and Seal this twenty first day of December, in the year, one thousand eight hundred and forty four.

                                                                                                                                                Judah Alden                                      (seal)

Signed, sealed, and declared by the above named Judah Alden, to be a Codicil to his last Will and Testament, in presence of us, who in the presence of the testators, and of each other have hereunto subscribed our names as Witnesses.

                                                                                                                                                John Porter

                                                                                                                                                Benjn Smith, Jr.

                                                                                                                                                Samuel Stetson

 

Presented for probate on the second Monday of Apr. 1845 by Silvanus Smith, the Executor therein named, and proved by Benjamin Smith Junior, one of the Witnesses. Letters Testamentary were granted to Silvanus Smith, the Executor therein named.

 

Silvanus Smith, of Duxbury, was granted Letters Testamentary on the Estate of Judah Alden, late of Duxbury, Esquire, on 14 Apr. 1845, with Benjamin Alden and Joseph F. Wadsworth, both of Duxbury, as sureties.

Benjamin Alden, Joseph F. Wadsworth, and Nathaniel Ford, all of Duxbury, were appointed to appraise the estate of Judah Alden, late of Duxbury, on 14 Apr. 1845.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Judah Alden, late of Duxbury, was appraised on 15 May 1845, his real estate valued at $9206.99, including his homestead, dwelling house, store, two barns, out buildings, 30 acres of pasture land, 10 acres of salt marsh, & 17 acres of wood land given to Sylvanus Smith valued at $2744, and his old house, 2 barns, out building and 20 acres of land given to John Alden 2d valued at $1633, and his personal estate valued at $1027.21. Silvanus Smith, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on the third Monday of May 1845.

 

Benjamin Alden, Nathaniel Ford and Barker Hunt, all of Duxbury, were appointed to divide the undivided real estate of Judah Alden, late of Duxbury, Esquire, to the following heirs: One twelfth part to John Alden 2d, one fourth part to the heirs of Briggs Alden decease, namely William Lydia, Judah, Samuel, Amherst, one twelfth part to Silvanus Smith of Scituate, one sixth part to Samuel Alden of Bridgewater, one fourth part to Mary Ann Alden, and one twelfth part to Marcia A. Welch, wife of Robert Welch on 19 Jan. 1846. The division was dated 2 Feb. 1846, and approved on 8 June 1847.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 87, pp. 111-114, 176, from FHL microfilm #0555638, Vol. 2H, p. 30, and Vol. 89, p. 244-249.

 

 

Will of Lyman Alden of Abington, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1864) *

                Know all men by these presents that I Lyman Alden of Abington in the County of Plymouth, and State of Massachusetts, being of sound and disposing mind and memory, do make and publish this my last Will and Testament.

                First. After paying my debts and charges, I give & bequeath and to Ellen Sampson of Abington my silver watch.

                Second. I give and bequeath all my clothing and wearing apparel to William H. Dyke of Abington

                Third. The residue and remainder of my estate, both real and personal I give and bequeath to Ellen Sampson, & Helen A. Clark to be divided equally between them.

                Fourth. I ordain and appoint Isaiah Jenkins of Abington, as Executor of this my last Will and Testament.

                In testimony whereof, I have here unto set my hand and seal, and publish and declare this this to be my last Will and Testament in the presence of the witnesses named below, this twenty third day of November, in the year one thousand eight hundred and sixty four.

                                                                                                                                                Lyman Alden                                     (seal)

                Signed, sealed, and published and declared by the said Lyman Alden as and for his last Will & Testament in presence of us, who in his presence, and in the presence of each other, and at his request have hereunto subscribed our names as witnesses.

                                                                                                                                                Franklin Smith

                                                                                                                                                Joshua Curtis

                                                                                                                                                Henry R. Curtis

 

Isaiah Jenkins, of Abington, was approved as Executor of the estate of Lyman Alden, late of Abington, on 13 Feb. 1865, with Elijah Crocker and Zenas M. Lane, of Abington, as sureties.

 

Zenas M. Lane, David Jacobs Jr. and Augustus N. Warren were appointed to appraise the estate of Lyman Alden, late of Abington, on 13 Feb. 1865. His real estate was valued at $70, and his personal estate totaled $65.00 Isaiah Jenkins, the executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 13 Feb. 1865.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 105, p. 141-142, from FHL microfilm #0555647, Vol. 114, p. 268, from FHL microfilm #0554699, and Vol. 109, p. 108, from FHL microfilm #0554696.

 

 

Will of Martha C. Alden of Duxbury, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1877) *

Know all men by these presents, that I Martha C. Alden of Duxbury in the County of Plymouth and State of Massachusetts, being of sound disposing mind and memory do make and publish this my last Will and Testament.

1st. I give and bequeath to Sophia M. Bradford my best feather bed china sett silver spoons and wine glasses that was my mothers.

2d. I give and bequeath to Sophia W. Sampson, widow of Bradford Sampson twenty five dollars.

3d. I give and bequeath to Abigail Alden widow of Ichabod Alden twenty five dollars.

4th. I give and bequeath to James Alden Jr. seven hundred dollars and my horse, cows, pigs, hens carriages, harnesses, truck wagons, carts, and all of my farming tools, if he releases all claims for services against my Estate if he does not release his claim on any estate, I then revoke the said legacy and he shall settle his claim with my Executor. I hereby direct my Executor, James Alden to retain the same as Trustee to said James Alden Jr. he to account to him at his discretion for the principal and interest there of and his receipt for the same shall be a good discharge to said Trustee.

5th. I give and bequeath to Thomas Alden the Note bearing date April 26th 1873. for $187.44 and two hundred dollars to be paid him by my Executor.

6th. I give and bequeath to James Alden, Thomas Alden, Peleg J. Alden and James Alden Jr. my household furniture and wearing apparel to be equally divided between them.

7th, I give and bequeath to Peleg J. Alden all of my salt marsh situated in Duxbury marshes at Alden Island so called.

8th. I give and bequeath to James Alden all the rest and residue of my estate wherever it may be found after my just debts and legacies are paid.

9th. I ordain and appoint James Alden as Executor of this my last Will and Testament hereby revoking all former Wills by me made.

        In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal and publish and declare this to be my last Will and Testament in the presence of the witnesses named below, this eighteenth day of July in the year one thousand eight hundred and seventy seven.

                                                                                                                                                Martha C. Alden                              (seal)

Signed, sealed, published and declared by the said Martha C. Alden as and for her last Will and Testament in the presence of us who at her request and in her presence and in the presence of each other have subscribed our names as witnesses hereto.

                                                                                                                Elbridge Chandler

                                                                                                                Elbridge H. Chandler

                                                                                                                Lizzie W. Hunt

 

James Alden, of Duxbury, was granted letters testamentary on the estate of Martha C. Alden, late of Duxbury, on 9 Sept. 1878, with Elbridge Chandler and Elbridge H. Chandler, of Duxbury, as sureties. No inventory of her estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 142, p. 541-542, from FHL microfilm #0556649, and Vol. 134, p. 136, from FHL microfilm #0556646.

 

 

Will of Mary Alden of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1810) *

In the Name of God amen I Mary Alden of Bridgwater in the County of Plymouth Widow being in good Health & perfect Memory do this sixth day of February Anno Domini one thousand eight hundred & ten make this my last will & Testament in manner following that is to say –

        Imprimis I give and bequeath to my Son Seth Alden the sum of Five Dollars to be paid in one Year from my decease —

        Item I give to my Grandson William Snell Alden all the Residue of my Estate Real & personal wherever the same may be found ~~

        And lastly I do constitute & ordain William Snell of Bridgwater aforesaid yeoman sole Executor of this my last Will & Testament

        In Testimony whereof I do hereunto set my hand & seal the day & year above written ~

signed sealed published pronounced & declared by the said Mary to be her last

will & Testament in the presence of us who hereunto set our Names as Witnesses to the same.

                Cyrus Alden                                                                                                          Mary Alden                                        (seal)

                Hephzibah Alger

                Abiezer Alger

 

Presented for probate on 6 Jan. 1812 by William Snell, the Executor therein named, and proved by Abiezer Alger and Hephzibah Alger, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to William Snell, the before name Executor.

 

Nathan Mitchell and Samuel Shaw Esqrs., and Elias Dunbar, Gentleman, all of Bridgewater, were appointed to appraise the estate of Mary Alden, late of Bridgewater, on 6 Jan. 1812. The Inventory, dated 21 Jan. 1812, totaled $734.63, no real estate, but sundry notes from various people totaling $173.65. An additional $257.25 was added to the inventory by William Snell, the Executor, who gave his oath to the inventory on 3 Aug. 1812.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 44, pp. 74-75, 282-283, from FHL microfilm #0550903.

 

 

Will of Mary Alden of Duxbury, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1845) *

                                I Mary Alden of Duxbury in the County of Plymouth & Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Single woman, being well in body & of a sound & disposing mind & memory, do make, publish & declare this as & for my last Will & Testament, hereby revoking all former Wills by me made,

                                And my Will is first,    That after my decease my body shall be decently buried, & that my funeral charges & all my just debts shall be paid by my Executor herein-after named.

                2d. In consideration of the services I have rendered my niece Sarah A Sampson, I do not give her any thing.

                3d. In consideration of the kind services & care which I have received from Joseph F. Wadsworth, I do give & devise to him & his heirs, all the property which I may leave at my decease (excepting to pay my debts & funeral charges) both real & personal, of every name & nature.

                Lastly, I do nominate & appoint Joseph F Wadsworth to be the sole Executor of this my last Will & Testament.

                                In testimony whereof, I the said Mary Alden have to this my last Will & Testament subscribed my name & affixed Seal, this fourteenth day of October, in the year of our Lord eighteen hundred & forty-five.

                                                                                                                                                          her

                                                                                                                                                Mary  X  Alden                                    (seal)

                                                                                                                                                         cross

                Signed, sealed & declared by the said Mary Alden, to be her last Will & Testament in presence of us, who at her request & in her presence, have subscribed our names as witnesses thereto.

                                                                                                                                                Isaac Torrey

                                                                                                                                                George H. Torrey

                                                                                                                                                Ann M. Reed

 

Presented for probate on the first Monday of Dec. 1849 by Joseph F. Wadsworth, the Executor therein named, and proved by Isaac Torrey and George H. Torrey, two of the witnesses whose names are subscribed thereto. Letters Testamentary were granted to Joseph F. Wadsworth, the Executor therein named.

 

Joseph F. Wadsworth, of Duxbury, was appointed as Executor of the last Will and Testament of Mary Alden, late of Duxbury, singlewoman, on 3 Dec. 1849, with Jenkins Lane, of Abington, and Isaac Torrey, of Duxbury, as sureties.

No inventory of her estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 91, p. 611-613, from FHL microfilm #0555640, and Vol. 1G, p. 510.

 

 

Will of Mercy Alden of Duxbury, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1805) *

        In the Name of God amen I Mercy Alden of Duxbury in the County of Plymouth, being of good Health of Body & of sound disposing Mind & Memory, thanks be given to God for the same, knowing the Certainty of Death & the uncertainty of the time thereof, do therefore this first day of January in the Year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred & five make & ordain this my last will & Testament that is to say –

First I give & bequeath to the Children of my Daughter Deborah one Dollar to be equally divided between them —

        Also I give & bequeath unto my Son Judah Alden One Dollar –

        Also I give & bequeath to my Son Nathaniel one Dollar —

        Also I give & bequeath to Beza Hayward Son of my Daughter Abigail deceased one Dollar –

        Also I give and bequeath to my Grand daughter Deborah Alden Belknap one good Feather Bed & Bedstead with sufficient Cloathing for the same –

        Lastly I give & bequeath to my Daughter Edith two Cows & six Sheep, I also give her all my wearing Apparel my Gold Necklace, Gold Sleeve Buttons, Also I give her the said Edith all my Household Furniture, Household Goods & Household Stuff & Plate with all the Residue & Remainder of my Estate of what name or nature soever & wherever it may be found, she paying all my just debts all the above Legaises & funeral charges & the Expence of settling my Estate. & I do constitute & appoint my said Son Judah Executor to this my last Will and Testament in Witness whereof I the said Mercy Alden have hereunto set my hand & Seal the day & year above written –

Signed sealed & delivered by the said

Mercy Alden & declared to be her last

Will and Testament, in the presence of

us, who in presence of her & in pres-

ence of each other have subscribed our                                                                           Mercy Alden                                      (seal)

Names as witnesses to the same –

                James Southworth

                Benjamin Alden

                Jedidiah Southworth

 

Presented for probate on 24 June 1812 by Judah Alden Esqr, the Executor therein named, and proved by Benjamin Alden and Jedidiah Southworth, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Judah Alden, the before named Executor.

No inventory of her estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 44, p. 224-225, from FHL microfilm #0550903.

 

 

Will of Nathan Alden, Esq. of East Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1838) *

        In the name of God, Amen! I Nathan Alden of East-Bridgewater in the County of Plymouth, Esquire – being of sound and disposing mind and memory – blessed be Almighty God for the same, but having now arrived at extreme old age do make and publish this my last Will and Testament in the manner which follows. Viz: –

First. – To my daughter Lydia Keith I give two hundred Dollars together with one half of my Household furniture and one fifth part of my Library.~

Second. – To my daughter Sarah Tolman I give one half of my furniture – and one fifth part of my Library.

Third. – To my Grand daughter Mary A. Tolman I give the sum of twenty five Dollars.

Fourth – To my sons Isaac Alden and Lucius Alden I give the sum of Eight hundred & fifty Dollars, each – upon the condition that they severally relinquish all claim upon my Estate by reason of a Note which each of them holds against me for that sum and dated in April– 1827.~

Fifth – To my Son Lucius Alden I give the sum of seven hundred & forty seven Dollars– which he is to hold as Trustee for the following purposes, viz: five hundred Dollars of which he is to hold in trust for the benefit of my Son Marcus Alden and his wife –, the remainder he is to hold in trust for the benefit of my daughter Sarah Tolman and her children. He my said Trustee to pay the same in such sums & at such times as he may think best.– The payment of the first mentioned sum to my son Marcus Alden and Wife – to be made upon the condition that a certain Note he holds against me for the sum of two hundred & fifty Dollars – and under date of April– 1827– be given up.

Sixth– To the Treasurer of the Baptist Missionary Society I give the sum of three hundred and thirty three Dollars and thirty three cents. On condition that my Estate be indemnified from the Effect of a Bond given by me to said Society or the Treasurer thereof. –

Seventh. After the payment of Legacies above given, debts and Charges; My Will is that the residue of my estate be divided into three equal parts– and that my son Isaac retain one part–; that my Son Lucius receive one part,– and that such creditors of my son Marcus, who were such when he left this State and who will comply with the following conditions – shall receive a pro-rata proportion of the remaining third part thereof – and that there may be no doubt & uncertainty in the premises I hereby appoint Jared Whitman of Abington, a Commissioner– who shall be authorized after suitable notice of the time and place of meeting – to receive & examine all such claims upon said Marcus as stated above– and he shall report to my Executor such list as he shall approve & allow – On which said list of claims my Executor shall pay such per centage as said fund may enable him to pay.~

        In case said commissioner shall decline the service hereby imposed on him – or shall in any way become unable to perform that service – then my will is that the Judge of Probate shall appoint a suitable person to perform that service – who shall in all respects perform it as above directed. The above on condition that each person who receives a dividend shall discharge his debt;– And I hereby appoint my Son Isaac Alden to be the Sole Executor of this my last Will and Testament – And I hereby authorize him to make sale of all such Estate as is not specifically given away in this my Will, and to convert the same into money in such way as he may judge best for all concerned, and my said Executor is to pay out all legacies in one year from the Probate of this my Will, in case the Same shall be called for in that time. – And I hereby revoke all former Wills by me made.

        In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and Seal this Eighteenth day of December in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and thirty eight.

   Signed, Sealed, published and declared                      

by the above named Nathan Alden to be                       

his last Will & Testament in the presence                                                                      Nathan Alden                                    (seal)

of us, who at his request and in his presence

have hereunto Subscribed our names as

Witnesses. –

Jared Whitman

Parlee Keith

Nathan Whitman

 

Presented for probate on the third Monday of Jan. 1843 by Isaac Alden, the Executor therein named, and proved by Jared Whitman, Parlee Keith and Nathan Whitman, the Witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters Testamentary were granted to Isaac Alden, the Executor.

 

Isaac Alden, of East Bridgewater, was granted Letters Testamentary on the Estate of Nathan Alden, late of East Bridgewater, Esquire, on 16 Jan. 1843, with Jared Whitman and Nathan Whitman as sureties.

Nathan Whitman, Parlee Keith and Galen Willis, all of East Bridgewater, were appointed to appraise the Estate of Nathan Alden Esq., late of East Bridgewater, on 17 Nov. 1842.

 

Bond of Lucius Alden, of Abington, as Trustee, with Israel Alden and Henry Alden, both of East Bridgewater, as sureties, on behalf of Marcus Alden and his wife and Sarah Tolman.

 

The Inventory of the Personal Estate of Nathan Alden, late of East Bridgewater, Esquire, dated 30 Nov. 1842, totaled $194.12. Isaac Alden, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on the first Tuesday of Apr. 1843.

 

Jared Whitman of Abington was granted Administration with the Will annexed of the remainder of the estate of Nathan Alden, late of East Bridgewater, Esquire, on 11 Jan. 1844, Isaac Alden, the Executor in said Will named having since deceased, and left said Will in part unexecuted, with Lucius Alden and Henry Alden, of East Bridgewater, as sureties.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 85, pp. 37-40, 196-198, 214, from FHL microfilm #0555268, Vol. 1G, p. 228, and Vol. 10A, p. 534.

 

 

Will of Oliver Alden of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1824) *

Be it remembered that I Oliver Alden of Bridgwater in the County of Plymouth, considering the uncertainty of this mortal life and being of sound and perfect mind and memory, blessed be Almighty God for the same, do make and publish this my last Will and Testament, in manner and form following —

First I will that all my just debts and funeral charges be paid and discharged by my Executors herein after named —

Second, I give and bequeath to my daughter Experience Pratt wife of Silvanus Pratt, one equal half of all my household furniture (excepting my clock) and also three hundred dollars in current money to be paid her by my Executor.

Third I also give and bequeath to my only son Caleb Alden all my real and personal Estate of every name and nature whatsoever excepting what I have given my daughter as above, and I do hereby constitute and appoint my son Caleb Alden sole Executor of this my last Will and Testament. In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand & seal this fifteenth day of March Anno Dom. Eighteen hundred & twenty four.

Signed seald & declared by the within named

Oliver Alden as his last Will & Testament in presence

of us Witnesses — Abram Washburn 2d.                                                                      Oliver Alden                                      (seal)

                                    John Washburn

                                    Daniel Mitchell                               

 

Probated on 4 Oct. 1825, and proved by Abram Washburn 2d & Daniel Mitchell, Esq., two of the witnesses.

 

Capt. Joseph Alden, Thomas Alden, & Caleb Keith, all of Bridgewater, were appointed to appraise the estate of Oliver Alden, late of Bridgewater, on 4 Oct. 1825. The Inventory, dated 2 Jan. 1826, totaled $5765.60, his real estate totaled $4826.32, which included his house, outbuildings & 43 acres of land given to him by his father, Seth Alden, valued at $2200, 60¾ acres of land, being what is called the Seth & Lazell lots valued at $1750, 13 acres of meadow bought of Zenas Crocker valued at $635, and others. Caleb Alden, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 3 Jan. 1826.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 59, p. 423-424, from FHL microfilm #0550910 (will), and Vol. 60, p. 93-95, from FHL microfilm #0550911 (inventory).

 

 

Will of Ruth Alden of Duxbury, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1871) *

Know all men by these Presents that I, Ruth Alden of Duxbury in the County of Plymouth, being feeble in body, but of sound mind do make this my last Will and Testament.

First. I direct that my funeral charges, and all other just debts be paid as soon as may be convenient.

Second. I give and bequeath to my brother James Alden all the residue of my property, whether real personal or mixed, and requesting him to make such disposition of sundry articles of personal property, as I may direct, either verbally or in writing.

Third. I appoint Dr James Wilde of Duxbury, Executor of this my last will & testament.

                In testimony whereof, I have here-unto set my hand & seal, and publish & declare this to be my last will & testament in the presence of the witnesses named below, this fourth day of March, in the year one thousand eight hundred and seventy one.

                                                                                                                                                Ruth Alden                                         (seal)

Signed, sealed, published and declared by the said Ruth Alden, as & for her last will & testament, in the presence of us, who in her presence, & in presence of each other, and at her request, have subscribed our names as witnesses thereto.

                                                                James Wilde.

                                                                James Alden Jr.

                                                                Georgianna Bickford.

 

James Wilde, of Duxbury, was granted letters testamentary of the estate of Ruth Alden, late of Duxbury, on 22 May 1871, with Wm H. Myrick, of Kingston, and James Laurence Wilde, of Duxbury, as sureties.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 140, p. 190, from FHL microfilm #0556648, and Vol. 124, p. 282.

 

 

Will of Sally H. Alden, of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1845) *

        Be it rembered that I Sally H. Alden of Bridgewater in the County of Plymouth widow considering the uncertainty of life and being of sound and perfect mind and memory, do make and publish this my last will and testament as follows

First, I give and bequeath to my grand daughter Sarah A. Dunbar my two shares in the stock of the wareham Bank to be held in trust for her untill she comes of lawful age by Solomon Alden Jr.

  Secondly, I give and bequeath to my Grandsons Amasa A. Dunbar Darius H. Dunbar and Eliab F. Dunbar Twenty five dollars Ea to be held in trust for them untill they severaly come of lawful age by the aforesaid Solomon Alden Jr

Thirdly, after paying my debts I give the remainder of my property to my two daughters Abigail T. Leach and Sarah M Dunbar to be equally divided between them

  and lastly I do appoint Solomon Alden Jr the sole Executor of this my last will and testament hereby revoking all former wills by me made.

        In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this seventh day of June in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and forty five.

                                                                                                                                                Sally H. Alden                                   (seal)

  Signed, sealed published and declared by the above named Sally H. Alden to be her last Will and Testament in the presence of us who at her request and in her presence have hereunto subscribed our names as witnesses to the same

                Solomon Alden Jr

                Andrew L. Alden

                Sally S. Alden

 

Presented for probate on the first Tuesday of Aug. 1845 by Solomon Alden Jr. the Executor therein named, and proved by Solomon Alden Junr. and Andrew L. Alden, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters Testamentary were granted to Solomon Alden Junr, the Executor therein named.

 

Solomon Alden Jr. of Bridgewater was granted Letters Testamentary on the Estate of Sally H. Alden, late of Bridgewater, widow, on 5 Aug. 1845, with Andrew L. Alden and Joseph Jackson, both of Middleborough, as sureties.

Andrew L. Alden of Middleborough, Lewis T. Alden and Azel A. Shaw, of Bridgewater, were appointed to appraise the estate of Sally H. Alden, late of Bridgewater, on 5 Aug. 1845.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Sally H. Alden, late of Bridgewater, dated 3 Oct. 1845, totaled $420.48, including her two shares in the Wareham Bank valued at $200, and notes of hand amounting to $189.46, but no real estate. Solomon Alden Junior, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on the first Tuesday of Nov. 1845.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 87, pp. 374-376, 423-424, from FHL microfilm #0555637, and Vol. 2H, p. 45.

 

 

Will of Sally S. Alden of Middleborough, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1853) *

                Be it remembered, that I, Sally S. Alden of Middleborough, in the County of Plymouth and State of Massachusetts, Singlewoman, considering the uncertainty of life, and being of sound and perfect mind and memory do make and publish this my last Will and Testament, as follows;

                First; I give and bequeath to my nieces Abigail Leach wife of Peleg Leach Jr. and Betsey M. Vaughn, wife of Adoniram Vaughn, my wearing apparel, household furniture, beds and bedding and my library to be divided equally between them. I also give to my said nieces Abigail and Betsey, one hundred dollars each to be paid them by my Executor, in three months after my decease.

                Secondly;– After paying all my just debts, I give and bequeath to my nephew Apollos G. Alden, all of my money and securities for money with all the other property I may possess at my decease, after pay the above legacies.

                And lastly I appoint the above named Apollos G. Alden, my sole Executor of this my last Will and Testament hereby revoking all former wills by me made.

                In witness whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and seal this sixteenth day of November, in the year of Our Lord, one thousand eight hundred and fifty three.

                                                                                                                                                Sally S. Alden                                    (seal)

                Signed, sealed and declared by the above named Sally S. Alden, to be her last Will and Testament, in the presence of us, who at her request and in her presence, and in the presence of each other, have hereunto subscribed our names as witnesses to the same.

                                                                                                                                                Solomon Alden

                                                                                                                                                Betsey V. Alden

                                                                                                                                                Mary K. Alden

 

Presented for probate on the last Tuesday of Oct. 1857 by Apollos G. Alden, the Executor therein named, and proved by Solomon Alden and Betsey V. Alden, two of the witnesses.

 

Apollos G. Alden, of Middleboro, was appointed as Executor of the estate of Sally S. Alden, late of Middleboro, on 27 Oct. 1857, with Wm H. Wood and George F. Hartwell, both of Middleboro, as sureties. No inventory of her estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 99, p. 461-463, from FHL microfilm #0555644, and Vol. 2 I, p. 88.

 

 

Will of Samuel Alden of Duxbury, Plymouth County, Massachusetts Bay (1779) *

In the name of God Amen—upon the tenth day of November in the year of our Lord One thousand Seven hundred and Seventy nine I Samuel Alden of Duxborough in the county of Plymouth in the Province of the Massachusetts Bay in New England Gentleman upon Good and Serious considerations and Labouring under the infirmities of old age but of perfect mind and memory thanks be Given unto God for the same and therefore calling unto mind the morality of my body and knowing that it is appointed for all men once to dye do make and ordain this to be my Last will and testament that is to say, principally and first of all, I Give and Recommend my soul into the hands of God that Gave it, and my body I recommend to the Earth to be buried in a decent and Christian manner at the discretion of my Executor herein after named, nothing doubting but at the Great and General Resurrection, I shall Recieve the same again by the almighty power of God, and as touching such worldly Goods and temporal Estate, that God has been pleased to bless me in this Life with, I do Give and dispose thereof in the manner and form following

Imprimis—my will is that all my Just debts and funeral Charges and Rates or taxations be defrayed and paid out of my Live Stock –

Item—I Give and bequeath to my daughter Rebecca Frazier the wife of Thomas Frazier the sum of Fifty Dollars Lawful money as the money now stands, together with what she has already Recieved, to her, her heirs, and assigns forever

Item—I do Give and bequeath unto my two daughters that is Sarah Bradford the wife of Gamaliel Bradford and Alathea Loring the wife of William Loring the sum of Forty Dollars a piece as the money now stands together with what they have already Recieved, to them their heirs and assigns forever

Item—I Do Give and bequeath unto my Grand Children, the Children of my daughter Alice Seabury deceased, the sum of Forty Dollars Lawful money, as money now stands together with what their mother Alice Seabury in her Life time Recieved, to them their heirs and assigns forever to be equally alike divided between them all

Item—I Do Give and bequeath unto my daughter Abigail Winter the sum of Forty Dollars as the money now stands in Lawful money, who is the wife of the Revd. Mr. Francis Winter, together with what she has already Recieved, to her heirs and assigns forever

Item—I Do Give and bequeath unto my two Grand Children John Alden and Rebecca Partridge Alden, the Children of my Son Ichabod Alden deceased a part of my homestead farm, whereon I now dwell and is thus bounded vizt–beginning at a Stake and Stones on the South-Easterly Side of my farm in the Line of Thomas Hunt, then south Eighty two degrees west on a Straight Line to the south-easterly corner of my damb, thence by the south-westerly side of the damb to the south-west corner of said damb thence south about fifty three degrees west to a Stake and Stones standing in the Line of Perez Chandler by a Little white Oak tree marked, and all the Land that I have Lying on the south,westerly Side of this afore Line with all the fencing and Orchard thereon together with two acres of my Cedar swamp Lying adjoining to my said farm, and my said two acres of Cedar swamp is to be Sett off to my two said Grand Children next adjoining to the pond and so to the upland on the south-westerly side of sd swamp, and also the one half part of my Great Lot or piece of Salt meadow commonly called Careswell meadow, and Likewise one Share of Salt marsh that I have that Lyeth upon common Island, together with one half my dwelling house, that is the old part of it with the priviledge of what they want in the Cellar and well with one third part of the Barn one third part of the Corn house, that is, the southerly part of each of said Barn and and Corn house with a conveniency of a way to and about the house as is needful, all which I do Give and bequeath unto my two said Grand Children John Alden and Rebecca Partridge Alden their heirs and assigns forever but my will is that if in case that my two said Grand Children should die without Issue that then all what I have above Given to my two said Grand Children John Alden and Rebecca Partridge Alden shall Go to and I do Give unto my Son Said Samuel Alden his heirs and assigns forever

Item—I do Give and bequeath unto my Son Samuel Alden all the Residue and Remainder of my Real and Personal Estate whatsoever it is and wheresoever it may be found, that is not before Given away, and my will is that when the said heirs come to divide the old part of the dwelling house that my said Son Samuel Alden shall have his first Choice in said division of the house all Excepting One old Red pot Bellyed Cow which I do Reserve to myself, all which I do Give and bequeath unto my said Son Samuel Alden his heirs and assigns forever

Item—I do hereby constitute and appoint my trusty and dutiful Son Samuel Alden, to be the Sole Executor of this my Last will and testament, and I do hereby utterly disallow, revoke, and disanul all and every other and former wills, testaments Legacies and bequests and Executors by me in any ways before named, willed and bequested, Ratifying and confirming this and no other, to be my Last will and testament, In witness whereof I the said Samuel Alden have hereunto Set to my hand and Seal the day and year above written

Signed, Sealed, Published, pronounced

and declared by the said Samuel Alden                                                                           Samuel Alden                    (seal)

to be his Last will and testament in the

presence of us the Subscribers

                Lot Hunt

                Ebenezer Chandler

                John Wadsworth

 

Note—that before the signing and sealing and delivery of these presents will my will is that what I have above Given to my two Grand Children John Alden and Rebecca Partridge Alden my said Grandson John Alden is to have two thirds of it and my said Grand daughter Rebecca Partridge Alden the Other third part of the said Legacy, and my will is that my said Son Samuel Alden shall and is to have all my Cedar Swamp Lying to the South-westerly side of my farm Excepting the two acres of the Cedar Swamp before Given away to my two said Grand Children

 

Presented for probate on 5 March 1781 by Samuel Alden, the Executor therein named, and proved by Ebenezer Chandler and John Wadsworth, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Samuel Alden, the before named Executor, with Ebenezer Chandler and John Wadsworth, all of Duxborough, as sureties.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 28, p. 38-42, from FHL microfilm #0550715.

 

 

Will of Seth Alden of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1784) *

  In the name of God Amen, I Seth Alden of Bridgwater in the County of Plymouth in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts Gentleman being of a sound and disposing mind and memory, Calling to mind the mortality of my body do make and ordain this my Last will and testament in manner as followeth

vizt.–my Soul I Give and Recommend into the hands of almighty God that Gave it and my body I Recommend to the Earth to be decently Interred at the discretion of my Executor–and having made disposition of my Real Estate by deeds to my Sons, I now Give and bequeath the Remaining part of my Estate in the following manner to the end that my Children may Share equally therein.~

Imprimis – I Give and bequeath to my Son Oliver Alden his heirs and assigns forever one third part of all my Books, one third part of my wearing Apparell, one third part of my Pew in the South meeting in Bridgwater aforesaid, also one feather Bed and furniture, also one half of my houshold Goods and furniture, (Exclusive of those which my Second wife brought to me) and as this is more than his Share of my Estate I order and will that he pay to my Grandson Seth Alden at the age of twenty one years thirteen pounds, six shillings and Eight pence at the Rate of Indian Corn at three Shillings pr Bushell.~

Item–I Give to my Son Joseph Alden (whom I hereby Constitute and appoint Sole Executor of this my Last will and testament) to him and to his heirs & assigns forever one third part of all my Books, one third part of my wearing Apparell, one third part of my Pew in the abovesaid meeting house, and one half of my Houshold Goods and furniture, Excepting as above, those which my Second wife brought to me, and all my Quick Stock Hay, Corn, provision of all kinds, my farming tools, all the Remaining part of my Personal Estate not above disposed of, and as this is more than his equal Share of my Estate, I order and will that he pay all my just debts and funeral Charges, and that he deliver to my Grandson Seth Alden at the age of twenty one years (as my Gift to him) one yearling Heifer –

Item – I give to my Grandson Seth Alden his heirs and assigns forever, one third part of my Books, one third part of my wearing Apparell, and one third part part of my Pew in the abovesaid meeting house

Item–I Give to Mary Hayward the daughter of my Second wife, and to her heirs and assigns all the houshold furniture Remaining at my decease which my Second wife brought to me, also I Give to her the said Mary all the wearing Apparell which her mother brought to me—In witness whereof I have hereunto Set my hand & Seal the seventh day of April, Anno Domini one thousand seven hundred & Eighty four.~

Signed Sealed, published, pronounced and

declared by the said Seth Alden to be his Last                                                              Seth Alden                          (seal)

will & testament in presence of us the Subscribers

                Benja. Willis

                Moses Leonard

                Benja. Willis junr

 

Presented for probate on 4 Oct. 1784 by Joseph Alden, the Executor therein named, and proved by Benjamin Willis Esqr. and Moses Leonard, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Joseph Alden, the before named Executor.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 29, p. 203-205, from FHL microfilm #0550715.

 

 

Will of Solomon Alden of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1813) *

  In the name of God amen I Solomon Alden of Bridgwater in the County of Plymouth & Commonwealth of Massachusetts yeoman of sound & disposing Mind & Memory but advanced in Life & apprehensive that I cannot long survive my present bodily Infirmities do make ordain & establish the following Disposition & Distribution of such goods & Estate as I may die seized & possessed as my last Will and Testament – viz —

                Imprimis I order & direct that my Body shall be interred after the Manner of a Christian Burial at the Discretion of my executor herein after named. —

                Item I give & bequeath to my well beloved Wife all my Household Goods and indoor moveables to be at her free & absolute Disposal forever —

                Item I give & bequeath to Sarah Shaw Wife of Azel Shaw five hundred Dollars to her and to her Heirs forever. —

                Item I give & bequeath to Molly Alden the Wife of Elijah Alden five hundred Dollars to her & her Heirs forever, provided & on the express Condition, that the said Elijah Alden pays a Note which I now hold against him for two hundred & twenty two Pounds & eight shillings & the Interest thereof and not otherwise —

                Item I give & bequeath to Bathaniah White the Wife of Eliphalet White five hundred Dollars to her & her Heirs forever —

                Item I give & bequeath to Hannah Miller Wife of Seth Miller Junior five hundred Dollars to her & her Heirs forever. —

                Item I give & bequeath to my Son Amasa Alden all my Stock on the Farm together with all the Tools, farming & teaming utensils which I own with my sd. Son Amasa to him & his Heirs & assigns forever —

                And my Will is & direct that the above mentioned Legacises to my Daughters above named be paid at the End of one year after the Death of myself & my Wife & the longest liver of us by my Executor herein named —

                And as to all the Residue of Estate of which I may die possessed, It is my Will that the same be equally divided between my three Sons Solomon, Amasa & Noah, having already bestowed upon my Son Alexander his just proportion of my Estate. and it is my Intention that the Note which I this day take of my Son Amasa sould be paid & distributed as above directed.

                And I do hereby nominate & appoint my Son Amasa Alden the Executor of this my last will & Testament —

                In Testimony of all which, I do hereto set my hand & seal this twenty seventh day of November in the year eighteen hundred & thirteen —

                                                                                                                                                N.B. the Words “her Heirs” & the words “to be paid”

                                                                                                                                                also the Erasures of the Words “use for ever” in several

                                                                                                                                                places & of the Words “not otherwise” were made

                                                                                                                                                before the Execution hereof—

Signed sealed published & declared to be the last

will & Testament of the above named Testator

by the said Testator in presence of us the subscrib-

ers who do hereto subscribe in the presence of the

sd. Testator & in presence of each other—

                Wilkes Wood                                                                                                       Solomon Alden                                 (seal)

                Jeremiah Keith

                Jeremiah Keith Junr.

 

Presented for probate on 7 Feb. 1814 by Amasa Alden, the Executor therein named, and proved by Jeremiah Keith and Jeremiah Keith junr., two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Amasa Alden, the Executor.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 45, p. 231-233, from FHL microfilm #0550903

 

 

Will of Solomon Alden, Esq. of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1849) *

Be it remembered that I Solomon Alden of Bridgewater in the County of Plymouth and Commonwealth of Massachusetts Esq. being of a sound and disposing mind and memory, do make, publish, and declare this instrument to be my last will and testament in manner following, viz:

                First. I give and bequeath to my daughter Sarah H. Lazell, the wife of William Lazell the sum of thirty dollars to be paid to her by my executors in six months after my decease.

                Second. I give and bequeath to my grand daughter Mary Alden the daughter of my deceased daughter Polly, the sum of five hundred dollars to be paid her by my executors in six months after my decease; also my best bed, bedstead & bedding sufficient to set up said bed; also one Cow; but if the said Mary should die leaving no child or children living all that I have given her, which may be in existence and remain unspent at the time of her death, I bequeath to my heirs a law at the time of her decease. Third. I give and bequeath to my son Solomon Alden Jr my clock.

                Fourth. I give and bequeath to my two sons Solomon Alden Jr. & Lewis T. Alden all my estate and personal property not before disposed of, they paying said legacies, ands my just debts and funeral charges.

                Lastly. I appoint my said two sons Solomon Alden Jr. and Lewis T. Alden Executors of this my last will and testament.

                In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this ninth day of June in the year one thousand eight hundred and forty nine.

                                                                                                                                                Solomon Alden                                 (seal)

  Signed, sealed published and declared by the said Solomon Alden to be his last will & testament in the presence of us, who in his presence, and in the presence of each other have hereunto set our names as witnesses.

                                                                                                                                Seth Miller Jr

                                                                                                                                Jeremiah Tucker

                                                                                                                                Charles E. Alden

 

Presented for probate on the first Tuesday of Nov. 1852 by Solomon Alden & Lewis T. Alden, the Executor therein named, and proved by Seth Miller Jr, one of the witnesses whose names are subscribed. Letters Testamentary were granted to Solomon & Lewis T. Alden, the Executors therein named.

 

Solomon Alden and Lewis T. Alden, both of Bridgewater, were appointed as Executors of the last Will and Testament of Solomon Alden, late of Bridgewater, on 2 Nov. 1852, with Seth Miller Jr. of Wareham and Zadock Thompson of Halifax as sureties.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 94, p. 458-460, from FHL microfilm #0555641, and Vol. 1G, p. 550.

 

 

Will of Vienna Alden of Middleborough, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1868) *

                In the name of God, Amen.  I Livina Alden of Middleborough in the County of Plymouth and Commonwealth of Massachusetts single woman, considering the uncertainty of this mortal life and being of sound and perfect mind and memory blessed be Almighty God for the same, do make and publish this my last will and testament in manner and form following (that is to say) first after my just debts and funeral charges are paid I give and bequeath to Charles Lawrence one hundred dollars, I also give and bequeath to Mrs. Ellen Kenney the sum of one hundred dollars to be paid to them and each of them within three months after my decease. As to the rest and remainder of my property of whatever name and of every description I give and bequeath the same to my brother Jared Alden to come into possession of the same immediately after my decease. This I do without forgetting either of my other brother or any of my more distant relation. And I hereby appoint my brother Jared Alden sole Executor of this my last will and testament hereby revoking all former wills by me made. In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal the seventh day of January in the year of our Lord One thousand eight hundred and sixty eight.

                                                                                                                                                            her

                                                                                                                                                Livina  X  Alden                  (seal)

                                                                                                                                                           mark

Signed sealed published and declared by the above named Livina Alden to be her last will and testament in the presence of us who at her request and in her presence have hereunto subscribed our names as witnesses to the same.

                                                                                                                                                Andrew Weston

                                                                                                                                                Roswell Waldron

                                                                                                                                                Edward W. Cole

 

Jared Alden, of Middleborough, was granted letters testamentary on the estate of Vienna Alden, late of Middleborough, on 27 Jan. 1868, it appearing that the said Vienna Alden was the person who executed the will, and that the mistake in the name was made by the person who wrote the will, and that said Vienna Alden made her mark to said will in the presence of the subscribing witnesses, with Daniel Alden and Elijah Alden, of Middleborough, as sureties. No inventory of her estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 106, p. 65, from FHL microfilm #0555647, and Vol. 114, p. 518, from FHL microfilm #0554699.

 

 

Will of Hepzibah Alger of West Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1831) *

In the Name of God Amen. I Hepzibah Alger of West Bridgewater County of Plymouth Widow, being weak of body, but possessing a sound disposing mind for which I have cause for gratitude, do this twenty ninth day of June A.D. Eighteen hundred and thirty one make and ordain this my last will & Testament in manner and form as followeth.

First—it is my will that all my just debts that I may owe at my decease together with my funeral charges should be paid by my executor hereafter named

I do give and bequeath unto my son Cyrus, all my Library with all the old Books which formerly were the property of Sheperd Fisk also one silver spoon that was my mothers —

I do give and bequeath unto my son Abiezer all the wearing apparel that was his honoured Fathers and the silver watch formerly belonging to his Father Also one pewter platter marked with his initials —

I do give and bequeath unto my two daughters, Olive Reed wife of John Reed Esqr. & Hepzibah all the rest and residue of my property of whatever name or nature not heretofore particularly disposed of to be equally divided between them.

And I do appoint my eldest son Cyrus sole executor of this my last will & Testament revoking all former wills by me made & in testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand & Seal this day first above written

                                                                                                                                                Hepzibah Alger                 (seal)

Signed, sealed, published & pronounced by the testator to be her last Will & Testament in the presence of us, who at her request & in her presence, & in the presence of each other have subscribed our names as Witnesses                                                                                  Spencer Lothrop

                                                                                                                                                Samuel Tisdale jr

                                                                                                                                                James Alger

 

Presented for probate on the first Tuesday of October 1841 by Cyrus Alger, the Executor therein named, and proved by Spencer Lothrop, one of the witnesses.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 83, p. 417-418, from FHL microfilm #0555267.

 

 

Will of Nathan Alger of West Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1832) *

        In the name of God, Amen, I Nathan Alger of West Bridgewater County of Plymouth, being weak and feeble in body, but possessing a sound disposing mind do this fourth day of June A.D. Eighteen hundred and thirty two make and ordain this my last Will & Testament in form and manner as follows viz:

        It is my Will that all my just debts, funeral charges &c. should be paid out of my estate by my Executor hereafter named.

        I do give & bequeath unto my three sons, Viz: Edmund, Simeon & Isaac all my Real Estate to be equally divided between them by their fulfilling the duties & obligations hereafter enjoined on them.

        I do give and bequeath unto my five daughters, viz: Rhoda, Bathsheba, Polly, Ruth and Abigail in equal shares all my household furniture of every description and should any or all of them marry then they shall receive two hundred & fifty dollars a piece to be paid by my three sons in equal shares on the day of their marriage. It is also my Will that my five daughters viz: Rhoda, Bathsheba, Polly, Ruth and Abigail while remaining unmarried shall have a home & comfortable and decent support from my estate given to my three sons and that the three youngest, Viz: Polly, Ruth & Abigail shall have opportunity and means to get a good education, and should any of my daughters who should remain unmarried after arriving at mature age become dissatisfied with the provision or usage received; they shall receive an equivalent in money to make them a home where they please and I do give & bequeath unto my three sons Edmond, Simeon & Isaac in equal shares after my estate shall be settled, all my just debts & legacies paid & all the obligations above named fulfilled all the rest & residue of my property not otherwise particularly disposed of

        I appoint Samuel Dunbar Esq. my sole Executor to this my last Will & Testament revoking all former Wills by me made.

                                                                                                                                                Nathan Alger                     (seal)

Signed, Sealed, published & pronounced to be his last Will & Testament in the presence of us who by his request & in his presence & in the presence of each other have subscribed our names as witnesses

                Daniel Dunbar

                Davis Alger

                Barnabas Dunbar

 

Presented for probate on 3 July 1832 by Samuel Dunbar Esq., the Executor therein named, and proved by Daniel Dunbar and David Alger, two of the witnesses.

 

Samuel Dunbar, the Executor named in the last Will & Testament of Nathan Alger, who last dwelt in West Bridgewater and died within thirty days last past, declined and refused to accept that trust, on 3 July 1832.

 

Jesse Perkins, of North Bridgewater, Esquire, was granted administration with will annexed of the estate of Nathan Alger, late of West Bridgewater, who deceased on 4 June 1832, testate, and named Samuel Dunbar Esq. as executor of his estate, who declined, on 3 July 1832, with Samuel Dunbar and Lebbeus Packard as his sureties.

 

Samuel Dunbar, Daniel Dunbar and Spencer Lothrop, all of West Bridgewater, were appointed to appraise the estate of Nathan Alger, late of West Bridgewater, Yeoman, on 3 July 1832. The Inventory was dated 31 July 1832, his real estate totaled $4141.00, including his homestead in West Bridgewater containing about 70 acres with the buildings valued at $3215, and several other lots of land, and his personal estate totaled $599.56. Jesse Perkins, the administrator with will annexed of the estate of Nathan Alger, late of West Bridgewater, gave his oath to the inventory on 7 Aug. 1832.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 72, p. 310-312 [will], Vol. 71, p. 436 [admin.], and Vol. 72, p. 343-345 [inventory], all from FHL microfilm #0555261.

 

 

Will of Anthony S. Allen of Plymouth, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1851) *

I Anthony S. Allen of Plymouth in the County of Plymouth, State of Massachusetts, mindful of the uncertainty of life, and desirous of disposing of such property as I may leave at my decease and being in feeble health, but of sound disposing mind and memory do make publish and declare this Instrument as my last will and Testament. –

First I give and bequeath to my son Sherman Allen five dollars to my daughter Harriet S. Bagnall five Dollars, to be paid them as soon convenient after my decease by my Executor herein after named

Second    All the rest residue and remainder of my Estate, Real and Personal of which I may die seized and possessed, I give devise and bequeath to my beloved wife Marcia Allen, her heirs and assigns forever, trusting to her care and fidelity in the maintenance and education of my said son Sherman Allen.

Third  I hereby constitute and appoint my wife Marcia Allen to be Executor of this my last Will and Testament hereby revoking all former Wills by me made

In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal and publish and declare this Instrument to be my last Will and Testament in the presence of the witnesses named below this twenty fifth day of October in the year eighteen hundred and fifty one.  ~~

                                                                                                                                        Anthony S. Allen                              (seal)

Signed, sealed, published and declared by the said Anthony S. Allen as and for his last Will and Testament in the presence of us, who in his presence and in the presence of each other, and at his request have subscribed our names as witnesses hereto . –

                                                                                                                                        David Manter

                                                                                                                                        Lemuel Leach Jr

                                                                                                                                        Gustavus D. Bates

 

Presented for probate on the third Monday of Feb. 1852 by Marcia Allen, the executor therein named, and proved by David Manter, Lemuel Leach Jr and Gustavus D. Bates, the Witnesses.

 

Maria Allen, of Plymouth, was granted Letters Testamentary on the Estate of Anthony S. Allen, late of Plymouth, on 16 Feb. 1852, with Lemuel Leach Jun. and David Manter, of Plymouth, as sureties. No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 94, p. 51-52, from FHL microfilm #0555641, and Vol. 1G, p. 538.

 

 

Will of Ezra Allen of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1795) *

  In the name of God Amen – I Ezra Allen of Bridgwater in the County of Plymouth & Comonwealth of Massachusetts, yeoman, being of sound mind & memory, but considering the uncertainty of human life, do make and publish this my last will & testament

  First – I Give and bequeath unto my beloved wife one third part of my Personal estate exclusive of my farming utensills, also the improvement of one third part of my homestead Lands, one half the dwelling house & other buildings & one half of the house lot hereafter to be described (she letting my daughters Phebe & Alice live in said house so long as they shall remain unmarried) during the term she remains my widow, also one third of the Pew in the new meeting house

2ly– I Give unto my Son Asahel the other half of my buildings, the other half of the house Lot said Lot being bounded as follows, beginning at Simeon Allen’s corner by the road, thence in said Allen’s range twelve rods to a stake thence northerly to the road such a course as to run one rod westerly from the barn thence by the road southeasterly to the first bounds, also all my farming utensills for which he is to provide sufficient wood ready prepared for the fire, delivered at said house for the use of his mother so long as she remains my widow

3ly– I Give to my Daughter Molly, wife to William Brett four Dollars, which sum, with what she has already recieved, I consider as her full proportion of my Estate

  4ly– I Give to my two Daughters Phebe & Alice each of them one Hundred Dollars, and one tenth part of my Personal Estate after their mothers share is Set off and my Just debts and funeral charges are paid, one half the money to be paid within one year, the other within two years after my decease

  5ly– I Give unto my eight Sons – Zenas, Ezra, Asahel, Samuel, Bezaleel, Waldo, Ethan & Ambrose, all my real estate not otherwise disposed of, and the remainder of my Personal Estate not otherwise disposed of, after my just debts & funeral charges are paid, and it is my will that the abovesaid Legacies should be paid in equal proportion by my eight sons, & if any of them should be minors at the time the abovesaid legacies are to be paid, that their proportion be paid out of their Personal Estate, but if there is a deficiency in said estate then so much of their real estate, and in such form as shall be least injurious to them shall be Sett off by three disinterested and judicious freeholders, under their hands & upon their Oaths to the Executor of this my last will, as shall be by them judged sufficient for the payment of said legacies and the said Executor to pay said Legacies

  I also give to my Sons Ethan & Ambrose, the reversion of their mothers right in the buildings & house Lot the giving their Sisters Phebe & Alice a right to live in the house so long as they shall remain unmarried

  Lastly I hereby appoint my Son Asahel Executor to this my Last will & testament, also Guardian for the minors, if any there be, untill such time as they shall make choice for themselves, and I hereby revoke all former wills by me made — In witness whereof I have hereunto Set my hand & Seal, this eleventh day of April anno Domini one thousand, seven hundred & ninety five

Signed, Sealed, Published & declared

by the said Ezra Allen to be his Last                                                                               Ezra Allen                                           (seal)

will & testament in presence of us

                Nathan Alden junr

                Simeon Allen

                Samuel Reed Brown

 

Presented for probate on 1 June 1795 by Asahel Allen, the Executor therein named, and proved by Nathan Alden junr and Simeon Allen, two of the witnesses.

 

John Whitman & Nathan Alden junr, Gentlemen, & Simeon Allen, yeoman, all of Bridgwater, were appointed to appraise the estate of Ezra Allen, late of Bridgwater, yeoman, on 1 June 1795. The Inventory of the Estate of Ezra Allen, late of Bridgwater, yeoman, dated 4 Sept. 1795, totaled $3797.37.09, including $312.50 in livestock, and lands, buildings & a Pew valued at $3097.34. Asahel Allen, the Executor to the Will of Ezra Allen, gave his oath to the inventory on 7 Sept. 1795.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 35, pp. 266-268, 316-317, from FHL microfilm #0550718.

 

 

Will of Mathew Allen of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Massachusetts Bay (1786) *

In the Name of God Amen — the twenty fifth of August one thousand seven Hundred and Eighty six–I Mathew Allen of Bridgwater in the County of Plymouth, and Commonwealth of Massachusetts Gentm. being in perfect mind and memory, thanks be to God therefor, Calling to mind the mortality of my body Do make and ordain this my Last will and testament–and first of all I Give my Soul into the hands of God who Gave it, my body to the Earth to be buried in decent Christian burial at the discretion of my Executors & as touching such worldly Estate as God hath blessed me with I Give and dispose thereof in the following manner. ~

Imprimis—I Give and bequeath to Sarah my well beloved wife the one third part of the improvement of my Real Estate — together with one third part of my Personal Estate, if any there be after my just debts and funeral Charges are paid ~

Item – I Give and bequeath unto my two Sons Ezra & Simeon to them their Heirs and assigns all my Lands for them to divide equally between them as to Quantity and Quality – my Dwelling House, Barn and Corn House I Give to Simeon; I also Give to my two Sons all my wearing apparell they paying to my Daughter Sarah the Sum of Sixty pounds that is to say thirty pounds each of them one half of which to be paid in one year after my decease, the other half to be paid in two years after my decease—I also Give to my Son Simeon all my farming utensills, obliging him to allow his Sister Sarah a privilege to Live in his House so Long as she Lives unmarried. ~

Item – I Give to my Daughter Sarah the Sixty pounds above mentioned to be paid her by my two Sons and my will is that after my just Debts and funeral Charges are paid out of my personal Estate, and my wife has taken out her thirds, the Remainder not disposed of as above, to be equally divided between my Daughter Sarah and my two Sons, and my will and meaning is that my sons above named meddle not with my Personal Estate to pay the above Legacy untill my Debts are paid and the abovesaid Division made — I Likewise Constitute and appoint my Son Ezra Allen to be the Sole Executor of this my Last will and testament hereby Revoking and disannulling all Other wills and testaments formerly made, Ratifying and Confirming this and no Other to be my Last will and testament –

        In witness whereof I have hereunto Set my hand the day and year above written. ~

Signed, Sealed, published & pronounced

and declared by the said Mathew Allen as                                                                     Mathew Allen                                    (seal)

his Last will & testament in presence of us

                Betty Allen

                Molley Stetson

                Nathan Alden junr

 

Presented for probate on 3 Sept. 1787 by Ezra Allen, the Executor therein named, and proved by Molley Stetson and Nathan Alden junr., two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Ezra Allen, the before named Executor.

 

Elisha Mitchell, Gentm, Jno. Whitman junr Gentm. & Nathan Alden junr. Gentm. all of Bridgwater, were appointed to appraise the estate of Mathew Allen, late of Bridgwater, Gentm, on 3 Sept. 1787. The Inventory of the Estate of Mathew Allen, Gentm., late of Bridgwater, totaled £486.8.5, including his lands and buildings valued at £328.9. Ezra Allen, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 2 Apr. 1788.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 30, pp. 198-200, 288-289, from FHL microfilm #0550716.

 

 

Will of Sarah Allen of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1809) *

                In the name of God amen I Sarah Allen of Bridgwater in the County of Plymouth & Commonwealth of Massachusetts Spinster, calling to Mind the Uncertainty of human Life do make & ordain this my last will & Testament – viz —

                1st. I give & bequeath to my Nephew Alpheus Allen, one Feather Bed with a striped Ticking, one Bolster, two Pillows, one under bed, three pair of Sheets, one Calico Bed quilt two pair of Pillow Cases one Table Cloth, four Towels, one Pewter Platter, two Basons two Plates & one quart Tankard & it is my Will that he should take his choice of the above-named Articles —

                2dly. I give & bequeath to my Niece Alice Stetson wife to Capt. Abishai Stetson one half my Linen & one half my Pewter ware not give to Alpheus Allen, also one large round Table one Chest with one Draw six Banister back Chairs & one half my wearing Apparel. —

                3dly. I give and bequeath to Sarah Stetson Daughter of Alice Stetson aforesaid one Case of Drawers & a blue Bedquilt —

                4thly. I give and bequeath to Susanna, Sarah & Phebe Brett Daughters of William Brett one half my Linen, pewter ware not given to Alpheus Allen, one Chest with two Drawers in it, & one half my wearing apparel to be equally divided between them—

                5thly. I give & bequeath to Sarah Brett in addition to what is already given her one Feather Bed, one Bolster, two Pillows & one under Bed —

                Finally the Residue and Remainder of my Estate whether Real or personal I give and bequeath to my Nephew Alpheus Allen aforesaid whom I hereby appoint Executor to this my last will and Testament he paying my just debts & funeral Charges & in Case he should not arrive to the age of twenty one years, then his Guardian for the time being to be the Executor

                In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand & seal this seventeenth day of April Anno Domini One Thousand eight hundred & nine —

Signed sealed published & declared by the said

Sarah Allen to be her last Will & Testament

in presence of us who have hereunto subscribed our

Names as Witnesses in presence of the Testator –                                                        Sarah Allen                                        (seal)

                Lois Robbins

                Deborah Reed

                Nathan Alden

 

Presented for probate on 6 July 1812 by Nathan Allen Esqr., the Executor therein named, and proved by Deborah Reed and Nathan Alden Esqr., two of the witnesses thereto subscribed.

 

Nathan Alden, Esqr., was granted administration of the last Will and Testament of Sarah Allen, late of Bridgewater, singlewoman, on 6 July 1812. No inventory of her estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 44, p. 259-260, from FHL microfilm #0550903, and Probate Docket #329.

 

 

Will of Seth Allen of Halifax, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1834) *

                I, Seth Allen of Halifax in the County of Plymouth, Trader, being of a sound disposing mind and memory, do make and publish this my last will and Testament, hereby revoking and making void all former wills by me at any time heretofore made — After the payment of my just debts & charges I dispose of my Estate as follows, viz –

First – I give and devise unto my two sons Robert Allen and Seth Allen the sum of Two hundred dollars a piece.

Second. – I give and devise unto my daughter, Lucy H. Crocker, the sum of twenty five dollars, which with what I heretofore advanced to & for her viz before her intermarriage with Mr William H. Crocker will make two hundred dollars.

Third. – I give and devise unto my five daughters viz Julia A. Allen, Harriet A. Allen, Cordelia Allen, Mary C. I. Allen & Catharine Allen the sum of two hundred dollars a piece – which said several legacies or sums of money I will & order shall be paid by my Executors to the said respective legatees in one year after my decease.

Fourth. – I give and devise unto my wife Lucy Allen one third of all my personal property at her own disposal after my just debts & charges are paid. I also give and devise unto my wife Lucy Allen the improvement of all my lands and tenements wheresoever situated, also the income of the residue of my personal Estate after my just debts & legacies are paid (if any) so long as she remains my widow. And after the marriage or decease of my wife Lucy, I give & devise all my lands, tenements and personal property equally between my children their heirs & assigns forever. And the improvement of the Real & Personal Estate I have given to my wife Lucy Allen is upon the special trusts following, to wit, that she the said Lucy shall during the continuance of said Estate make all necessary repairs, pay all taxes, & other necessary charges and expenses in and about the same – & shall maintain & support those of my children who have not arrived at the age of eighteen years at my decease, until they become eighteen years of age –   And I do hereby authorise & empower my Executors, if they shall judge expedient, to sell & convey for such prices as they shall deem proper & reasonable, all or any part of my out lands, & the interest & income thereof to pay to my wife Lucy Allen during the time she shall remain my Widow, & after the decease or marriage of my wife to pay the principal to my children in equal proportions, to their respective use forever.

                I also give to my daughters a right to live in my house so long as they remain single –

                And I hereby constitute & appoint my wife Lucy Allen and Welcome Young Esquire of East Bridgewater Executrix and Executor of this my last will and Testament.

                In Witness whereof, I have hereunto set my hand & seal this twenty fourth day of March in the year of our Lord eighteen hundred and thirty four.

                                                                                                                                                Seth Allen                                           (seal)

                Signed, sealed, published & declared by the said Seth Allen as his last Will and Testament in our presence who at his request & in his presence have hereunto set our hands as witnesses.

                John Atwood

                William Tillson

                Ephraim Stetson.

 

Presented for probate on 3 Nov. 1835, and proved by John Atwood and William Tillson, two of the subscribing witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Lucy Allen of Halifax, Widow, and Welcome Young of East Bridgewater, Esquire, the Executors, on 3 Nov. 1835.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Seth Allen, late of Halifax, was appraised on 28 Oct. 1835 by Obadiah Lyon, Cushing Vinal and Robert Inglee, and totaled $4591.36, including his real estate valued at $2725. Lucy Allen and Welcome Young, the Executors, gave their oath to the inventory on 7 Dec. 1835.

 

                To the Hon Wilkes Wood Esqer, Judge of Probate of Wills &c for the County of Plymouth – This is to signify to your Honor, that I have thought proper to wave, and I do hereby wave the provisions made for me in the will of my late husband Seth Allen late of Halifax deceased, and claim my dower of his estate. I therefore pray that our Honor would order the same to be assigned and set off to me as the law in such cases directs – and also for personal estate –

          Dated at Halifax the fifth day of July A.D. 1836.

                                                                                                                                                Lucy Allen

 

William Tillson, Obadiah Lyon, and Cyrus Morton, all of Halifax, Yeomen, and all Freeholders in said County, were appointed to set off one third part of all the Real Estate of Seth Allen, late of Halifax, Gentleman, unto his widow, Lucy Allen as her dower in said real estate on 5 July 1836. The division was dated 24 Aug. 1836, and approved on 1 Nov. 1836.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 77, pp. 461-4663, 523-524, from FHL microfilm #0555264, and Vol. 78, pp. 297, 412-413.

 

 

Will of Simeon Allen of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1804) *

In the Name of God amen. I Simeon Allen of Bridgwater in the County of Plymouth Commonwealth of Massachusetts Yeoman, considering the Uncertainty of human Life & being of sound Mind & Memory do make & ordain & publish this my last Will and Testament in Manner & form following – viz –

First I give and bequeath unto my beloved Sister Sarah Allen the use & Improvement of the Easterly room in my Dwelling house with the Cellar under the same, one third part of the Kitchen, the porch & Buttery on the easterly end of the house, a small apartment on the southerly side of the East Chamber & Easterly bedroom, during the term she remains a single woman; also what Fire wood is necessary for her use delivered at the door, during said term, also a right to set in my Pew during her natural Life —

2dly. I give and bequeath to my beloved Son Alpheus Allen all the residue & remainder of my Estate both real and personal, And I also appoint him sole Executor to this my last Will & Testament, provided nevertheless if he has not arrived to the Age of twenty one years at the time of my decease, then in that case I appoint Nathan Alden junr to be the sole Executor to this my last Will and Testament, and also to be Guardian for said Alpheus untill he arrives to the age of twenty one years, unless he shall choose some other person, & it is my will that he the said Alpheus shall have learning sufficient, to keep a Grammar School provided his health and Inclination will permit, & when he has obtained that, if he has an Inclination to have a College Education if the Guardian with the advice of Friends, thinks proper In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand & Seal this twenty sixth day of December Anno Domini one thousand eight hundred & four

Signed sealed, published & declared by the                                                   Mm. the word above the upper

above named Simeon Allen to be his                                                               Line was interlined before signing

Last Will and Testament in presence of

us who have hereunto subscribed our

Names as Witnesses in the presence of the                                                                    Simeon Allen                                     (seal)

Testator

                Nathan Alden junr.

                Marcus Alden

                John Whitten

 

Presented for probate on 2 Sept. 1805 by Nathan Alden junr., the Executor therein named, and proved by Nathan Alden junr. and Marcus Alden, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Nathan Alden junr., the before named Executor.

 

Nahum Mitchell Esqr., James Barrell, Gentleman, and Bezaleel Allen, Yeoman, all of Bridgwater, were appointed to appraise the estate of Simeon Allen, late of Bridgwater, yeoman, on 2 Sept. 1805. The Inventory, dated 11 Sept. 1805, totaled $6922.19, including his real estate, which totaled $5668. The appraisers gave their oath to the inventory on 27 June 1806, and Nathan Alden Jr, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 4 Aug. 1806.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 40, pp. 270-272, 485-487, from FHL microfilm #0550901.

 

 

Will of Susanna Allen of Bridgewater, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1739) *

Know all men by these Presents that I Susana Allen of Bridgewater in the County of Plimouth in the Province of the Massachusetts Bay in New England Widdow Woman, do Ordain and Appoint these Preasants to Contain my last Will and Testament in Manner and form following that is to say

        Imprimis, I will that all my Just Debts and funerell Expences be paid within Convenient Time after my Decease.

        Item. I give and bequeath to my Honoured Mother Twenty Pounds in Money to be paid by my Executor hereafter named.

        Item. I give and bequeath to my Brother Abraham Perkins Twenty Pounds in Money and my Right in that Part which my Honoured Mother’ hath sett off for her Dower To him his Heirs and assigns forever

        Item, I give and bequeath to my Sister Sarah Perkins one Callominco Gown, and my Rideing Hood

        Item, I give and bequeath to my Sister Martha Byram, my Bed and Beading, the Wife of Joseph Byram whome I appoint Sole Execr. of this my last Will and Testament.

And my Will is, that when the Sums above mentioned are paid that, what Remains of my Estate be Equally Divided among my Brothers and Sisters, Namely David Perkins Jonathan Perkins, Abraham Perkins, Mary Washburn, Martha Byram Elisabeth Leonard Sarah Perkins, Hereby Declaring this and no other to be my last Will and Testament, In Witness hereunto I have Sett my Hand and Seal this eleventh Day of May 1739 in the Twelfth year of his Majs Reign George the Second &c.

Signd, Seald, Published, Pronounced

and Declared by the sd Susanna                                                                                                       her

Allen to be her last Will and                                                                                             Susanna   ò   Allen                           (seal)

Testament in Preasance of                                                                                                                 Mark

Samll Edson

Samll Edson 3d

Obed Edson

 

Proved on 6 Aug. 1739 by Samll Edson, Samuel Edson 3d and Obed Edson, the witnesses. Administration granted unto Joseph Byram, the Executor therein named.

 

Samll. Edson Junr., Ebenezer Alden and Samll Edson the third, all of Bridgewater, were appointed to appraise the estate of Susanna Allen, late of Bridgewater, on 6 Aug. 1739. The Inventory, dated 6 Aug. 1739, was not totaled, but small, including a bond for £55, and a note for £14. Joseph Byram, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 6 Aug. 1739.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 8, p. 90-92, from FHL microfilm #0551531.

 

 

Will of Mary Allin of Bridgewater, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1751) *

In the Name of God Amen the first Day of Octr. in the year of our Lord 1751 I Mary Allin of Bridgwater in the County of Plymouth in New England widdow woman Labouring under the Infirmities of old age but of Perfect minde & memory Thanks be Given unto God therefor Calling To mind the Mortallity of my Bodey and Knowing that it is appointed for Man once To Dye do make and ordain this my last will & Testament that is To Say principally and first of all I give & Recommend my Soul into the hands of God that Gave it and my Bodey I Commit To the Earth To be Decently Buried at the Descresion of my Executor hereafter named nothing Doubting but at the General Resurrection I Shall Receive the Same again by the migty Power of God. And as Touching such worldly Estate wherewith it hath pleased God To bless me with in this Life I give & Demise and Dispose of the same in the follows,

I Give to my Two Sons Namely To Nathll. Allin whome I Likewise Constitute make and ordain my only & Sole Executor of this my last will & Testament and To William Allin all my Quick Stock as also all that is Justly Due To Me uppon Bonds notes or any other ways from any Person or Persons what soever and all my monny To be Equally Devided between Them they Paying out of the Same the Legases hereafter Mentioned

Item I Give To my Daughter Ester Edson the wife of James Edson the one half of all my houshold goods Excepting the particulars hereafter mented. & bequhd.

Item I Give To my Daughter Betty Allen my loome and the Tackling belongg. to it my warping bars great whale & foot whale panel & Pilion my Two bigest Iron Pots and Small Iron Kettle frying Pan warmeing Pan fire Shie & Tongs Trammel box Iron heators bread Tub parchment Sive my two Smalest Cutter Plates Puter Tankerd & three Puter Plates and the one half of the Remaining part of my houshold goods

Item I Give To my gran Children namely To Micah Allen Mary Allin Joseph Allin Daniel Allen Josiah Allen and Nickolus Byram three Shillings a pece to be Paid them by my Two Sons Nathan & William

And I Do by this My last will and Testament Confirm and Establish All my former Deeds of Gifts and I Do hereby uterly Disallow Revoke and disannul all and Every other former Testaments and wills by me before This Time named Ratifying and Confirming this & no other to be my last Will and Testament in witness whereof I have hereunto Set my hand & Seal the Day & year above written

Signed Sealed Published Pronounced and Declard.                                                                  her

by the Said Mary Allin as her Last will and                                                                   Mary  X  Allin

Testament in the Presenc of us the Subscribers                                                                      mark

Thomas Whitman

Benjamin Whitman

Nathan Whitman

 

Presented for probate on 2 Apr. 1759 by the Execr. therein named, and proved by Benja. Whitman and Nathan Whitman, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Nathan Allin of Bridgwater, Husbandman, the Executor, on 2 Apr. 1759.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 15, p. 267-268, from FHL microfilm #0551543.

 

 

Will of Joseph Ames of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1813) *

    Be it remembered that I Joseph Ames of Bridgwater in the County of Plymouth – being weak in Body, but of sound & perfect Mind & Memory – blessed be almighty God for the same, do make & publish this my last Will & Testament in manner following – viz.

                First I give and bequeath unto my well beloved Wife Martha Ames my Horse & Chaise two of my best Cows, one Swine, three ewe Sheep, half the Poultry, & half the provisions & Stores on hand at my decease; the whole of my Household Furniture & indoor Moveable & Books – & my best Pew in the Baptist Meeting house in Middleborough the aforesaid Articles to be wholly at her disposal I also give unto her the use & Improvement during her natural Life the whole of my undivided half part of the Dwelling house where I now live & one third part of the Residue of all my Real Estate of which I may die seized of —

                2dly. I give & bequeath to my Son Waldo my Desk & best Hat, & the Residue of my wearing apparel to be equally divided between my four Sons Seth, Joseph, Waldo & Fisher –

                3dly. I give bequeath & devise to my Children Seth, Joseph, Bethiah Patty, Anne, Jane, Waldo, Lucy & Fisher their respective Heirs & Assigns forever all my Real & personal Estate of every description not otherwise disposed of, to be equally divided between them subject however to the payment of all my just debts & charges of settling the Estate – and also my Will is that in Case my Daughter Lucy should be in a single & unmarried State at the decease of her Mother that shall be intitled to the uninterrupted Improvement of so much of my half of the Dwelling house during her remaining in a single & unmarried State, as shall be necessary for her Comfort & Convenience & sufficient Wood to support one Moderate Fire –

                And my will is that my Daughters Bethiah, Anne, Patty & Jane who are in a married State, & have had Sums advanced out of my Estate to fix them for House-keeping that the several Sums so advanced, shall be taken into consideration in the Division of my Estate as aforesaid & in said Division considered as so much advanced & paid towards their respective Shares —

                And lastly I do hereby appoint my sons Seth & Joseph to be Executors of this my last Will & Testament – In Testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand & Seal this seventh day of March in the Year of our Lord one Thousand eight hundred & thirteen —

signed sealed published & declared by the above named

Joseph Ames to be his last Will & Testament in presence

of us who at his request & in his presence have hereunto                                           Joseph Ames                                      (seal)

subscribed our Names as Witnesses to the same.

                Nathan Mitchell

                James Hooper

                Noah Fearing

 

Presented for probate on 6 April 1813 by Seth Ames and Joseph Ames, the Executors therein named, and proved by Nathan Mitchell Esqr. and James Hooper, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Seth Ames and Joseph Ames, the before named Executors.

 

Nathan Mitchell Esqr., James Hooper, Gentleman, and Avery Fobes, Yeoman, all of Bridgwater, were appointed to appraise the Estate of Joseph Ames, late of Bridgewater, yeoman, on 6 Apr. 1813. The Inventory of the Estate of Joseph Ames, late of Bridgwater, dated 26 June 1813, totaled $4216.32, including his real estate valued at $2930. Seth Ames, the surviving Executor of the Will of Joseph Ames, deceased, gave his oath to the inventory on 4 Oct. 1813.

 

To the Hon. Joshua Thomas Esqr. Judge of Probate of Wills &c for the County of Plymouth –

  We the Subscribers Heirs at Law of the late Joseph Ames & his Son Capt. Joseph Ames both of Bridgwater in sd. County of Plymouth decd. Seth Ames being duly appointed as Executor on his Father Joseph Ames’s & Ezra Hyde Administrator on Capt. Joseph Ames’s Estate. ~

This is to represent to your Honour, that the two Estates (after settling with the Widow of the said Capt. Joseph Ames & obtaining her Acquittance by Deed duly executed) belong to the same Heirs, & are one & the same property & that the said Seth Ames & Ezra Hyde as Administrators on sd. Estates have duly adjusted all Accounts, paid all the Debts & collected all the Dues belonging to the same, & that the sales made by them of any of the real & personal Estate for that purpose; meets with our entire approbation – They having accounted to us for all the Estate, which came into their hands as Administrators as aforesaid, we do therefore at their request solicit your Honour, that the said Seth Ames & Ezra Hyde be discharged from any further Duty as Administrators on the Estate aforesaid, & that the Bonds given by them in your Office be entirely cancelled & discharged.

Dated at Bridgwater the 5th. day of April ADom. 1816                                                Joshua Bates

Signed in presence of                                                                                                         Bethiah Bates

Nathan Mitchell                                                                                                                   Geo. W. Perkins

                                                                                                                                                Anne Perkins

                                                                                                                                                Nathl. F. Ames

                                                                                                                                                Ezra Hyde

                                                                                                                                                Martha Hyde

                                                                                                                                                Ephraim Sprage

                                                                                                                                                Waldo Ames

                                                                                                                                                Jane Sprague

                                                                                                                                                Lucy Ames

The Executor and Administrators are hereby acquitted and discharged 1 Jan. 1817.

                                                                                                                                                Joshua Thomas

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 44, p. 516-517, from FHL microfilm #0550903, Vol. 45, p. 122-123, and Vol. 48, p. 301-302.

 

 

Will of Mary Ames of Bridgewater, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1755) *

In the Name of GOD Amen. I Mary Ames of Bridgwater in NewEngland, being weak of body but of Sound mind & Memory, Praysed be God therefor, & Considering the Unsertanty of my Life do make & Ordain this my present, last will & Testament in manner & form following, that is to say principally & first of all I Commet my Soul into the hands of Almighty God, hoping for the parden & remission of all my sins thro’ the merritts, death & passion of my Lord & Savour Jesus Christ & to enhirit Eternall life, and my body I Comit to the Earth to be decently buried at the discretion of my Execr. herein after named, and as Touching such Temporall Estate as it hath pleased God to bless me with I Dispose thereof In Manner following—

First I will That all my Just debts & funerall charges be paid & discharged in due & Seasonable time ~

Item I Give unto my two sons Nathl. Raynolds & Thomas Reynolds all ye money that is due to me, to be Equally divided between them, and I Give unto them all my right in the mill stones that are in or upon the land called Millstone plain equally to be divided between them two ~

Item I Give unto my son David Ames One feather bed & bolster ~

Item I Give unto my two sons David & James Ames all the land that I have in the third Lot in the West Shears excepting Sixty acres on the North part lying next to Jacob Rickard’s land equally to be divided between them, & I Give unto the said David & James Ames all my land that I have lying beetween Jonathan Burr’s land & little Crambery Meadow (so called) equally to be divided between them two

Item I Give unto my Daughter Mary Gurney & the lawfull begotten Heirs of her body Sixty Acres of land lying in my third lot in the West shares next to Jacob Rickard’s land, and I Give unto her all my wareing Apparell linnen & bead cloathing.

Item I Give to my Daughter Betty Ames One Cow & on Heiffer.

Item I Give to my Grandaughter Mary Reynold’s One large puter platter & Six pewter plates, & I appoint & Constitute my son Nathaniel Reynold’s my Sole Execr. of this my Last Will & Testament, In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my Hand and seal the 19,th day of May in the Year of Our Lord God one Thousand seven Hundred & fifty five

Signed Sealed and declared by the

above named Mary Ames to be her                                                                                 Mary Ames                                         (seal)

Last will & Testament, in the

Presence of us Subscribers

Seth Howard

Jesse Howard

Judah + Tupper

 

Presented for probate on 10 Oct. 1757 by the Executor within named, and proved by Seth Howard and Jesse Howard, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Nathl. Reynolds, the Sole Executor, on 10 Oct. 1757.

No inventory of her estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 14, p. 432-433, from FHL microfilm #0551542.

 

 

Will of Capt. Thomas Ames of Bridgewater, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1737) *

In the Name of God Amen. ye Twenty fifth Day of January – 1736/7 – I Thomas Ames of Bridgewater in the County of Plymouth in the Province of ye Massachusetts-Bay in New-England Gent. Being weak in Body but of prfect Mind & Memory Thanks be given unto God: Therefore calling to Mind ye Mortality of my Body & knowing that it is appointed for all men once to dy do Make & ordain this my last Will & Testament yt is to say, Principally & first of all I Give & Recommend my Soul into the Hands of God that gave it, & my Body I recommend to ye Earth to be buried in decent Christian Burial at the Discretion of my Executrs Nothing doubting but at ye. General Resurrection I shall recieve the same again by ye mighty Power of God. And as touching such Worldly Estate wherewith it hath pleased God to bless me in this Life I Give Demise & Dispose of ye same in the following Manner & Form – Imprims. I Give & Bequeath to Mary my dearly beloved Wife, all my Houshold Goods by her to be disposed of as She shall See Cause And ye Improvemt. of 1/3 Part of my Dwelling house 1/3 Part of Each of my Barns 1/3  Part of my Homestead & 1/3 Part of my Land lying on ye. Northerly Side of Mile Brook & on both sides of ye. highway so long as She shall Continue my Widow

Itm I Give to my well beloved Son Thomas Ames the Easterly moiety or Half Part of my Homestead with the Buildings thereon & the Southerly Moiety or Half Part of my Land lying at ye head of John Ames’s Homestead on ye westerly Side of the high way Both which Pieces of Land shall also one half part of my Land lying at Mile Brook on ye [can’t read] side of the highway joyning to John Ames his Land – be Divided according to Quantity & One quarter of a Certain Purchase Right in ye. Common Undivided Land in the Eight Mile Grant within the Township of Bridgewater commonly called Ames Purchase Right And all my Right of Cedar Swamp that lies in the first share in ye. old Cedar Swamp and one Sixteenth Part of a SawMill standing on ye. Town River near my Dwelling house and my Shop & Smiths Tools to him his Heirs & assigns forever – Excepting the Liberty of Improvemt. I Gave to my Wife as aforesd—

Itm I Give to my well beloved Son Solomon Ames All ye. Lands I bought of Ephraim Leach With the Buildings thereon & 1/5 Part of a Certain Purchase Right in ye. Common or undivided Land in the Eight Mile Grant (so called) in the Township of Bridgewater commonly called Leach’s Purchase Right and ye. Piece of Meadow & Meadowish Land which I bought of Joseph Lenard & Ephraim Lenard & 1/3 Part of my Right in the 3d. & 4th. Shares in ye old Cedar Swamp to him his Heirs and assigns forever –

Itm. I Give to my Well beloved Son Joseph Ames all my Right in a Swamp Lot laid out on Ames’s Purchase Right at Cutting Cove & my Lot of Meadow lying at Cutting Cover & all my Land joyning to ye. sd. Lot of Meadow & ye. 24 acres of Land (more or less) Which I bought of Lieutt. Ephraim Haward & ye Six acres I laid out adjoyning to it & 1/3. Part of my Right in ye 3d. & 4th Shares in the old Cedar Swamp to him his Heirs & assigns forever, Only my Sons Thomas & Ebenezer are to Have the Improvement of Half of ye Meadow for the Term of Twelve Years after my Decease & no longer—

Itm I Give to my well beloved Son Ebenezer Ames the Westerly moiety or Half Part of my Homestead with all the Buildings thereon and the Northerly Moiety of Half Part of my Land lying at the Head of John Ames’s Homestead on ye. Westerly side of the highway And one half of my Land lying on the Easterly Side of the high way at Mile Brook joyning to John Ames’ his Land and 1/3 Part of my Right in ye 3d. & 4th. Shares in the Old Cedar Swamp to him his Heirs and assigns forever Except the Liberty of Improvement I Give to my Wife as aforesd—

Itm I Give to my well beloved Son Nathan Ames all my Lands lying in the East Precinct in the Township of Bridgewater that are already laid out & ¼ Part of a Certain Purchase Right in the Common or Undivided Lands in the 8-Mile Grant in the Township of Bridgewater commonly called Ames’s Purchase Right and Sixty Pounds lawfull money of New England to be paid to him when he shall be twenty-one Years of age Thirty Pounds thereof by my aforesd. Son Thomas Ames, Fifteen Pounds by my Son Solomon Ames & the other fifteen Pounds by my Son Joseph Ames to him his Heirs and assigns forever—

Itm I Give to my Well beloved Daughter Mary Haward Thirty five Pounds lawfull Money of New England to be paid to her by my Son Thomas Ames when She shall be one and twenty Years of Age, besides the Sixty five Pounds She has already recieved—

Itm I Give to my well beloved Daughter Susanna Ames one hundred Pounds lawfull Money of New-England to be paid to her by my Son Solomon Ames Fifty Pounds thereof when She shall be Eighteen Years of age and the other fifty Pounds when She shall be twenty one Years of Age ~~

Itm I Give to my well beloved Daughter Sarah Ames one hundred Pounds lawfull Money of New-England to be paid to her by my Son Joseph Ames Fifty Pounds thereof when she shall be Eighteen Years of Age & the other Fifty Pounds when She shall be twenty one Years of Age—

Itm I Give to my Well beloved Daughter Betty Ames one hundred Pounds lawfull Money of New England to be paid to her by my Son Ebenezer Ames Fifty Pounds thereof when She shall be Eighteen Years of Age & the other Fifty Pounds when She shall be twenty one Years of Age~

And My Will is that my Son Nathan shall live with his Mother and my Son Ebenezer, till he is twenty one Years of Age – And also that Joshua Wood shall live with my Son Ebenezer till his time is out & my sd. Son Ebenezer shall perform ye Conditions in ye. Indenture to him And my Will is further that all my Husbandry Tools or Implements be equally divided between my four Eldest Sons Viz. Thomas Solomon Joseph & Ebenezer—

Itm I Give to my Wife & Son Ebenezer half my Quick Stock, And the other half of it (after my Debts & Funeral Charges are paid) to be equally divided between my Sons Thomas Solomon Joseph & Nathan And my Will is that my Son Thomas shall pay out of his own part Sixty five Pounds towards Paying of my Debts – And I do hereby Constitute & Appoint my Wife and my Son Thomas to be Executrix & Executor of this my last Will & Testament And do utterly Disallow – Revoke & Disanull all & every other former Testaments Wills & Bequests & Executors by Me before named Ratifying & Confirming this and no other to be my last Will & Testament. In Witness whereof, I have hereunto Set my hand & Seal the Day & Year above-written.—

Signed Sealed Published Pronounced & Declared

by the sd. Thomas Ames as his last Will & Testamt.                                                    Thomas Ames                    (seal)

In Presence of us the Subscribers –

Ephraim Fobes, Isaac Willis, Nathaniel Willis junr.

 

Plymo May 2d 1737 – Ephraim Fobes Isaac Willis & Nathaniel Willis junr. all made oath that they Saw sd. Thomas Ames Sign & Seal & heard him Declare ye. Above written to be his last Will & Testament And that they Set to their Hands as Witnesses in Presence of sd. Testator And that according to the best of their Judgment he was then of Disposing Mind & Memory

                                                                                                Before Isaac Winslow Judge of Probate –

Letters Testamentary were granted to Mary the widow and Thomas the son of the said deceased on 2 May 1737.

 

The Inventory of all & Singular of the Goods & Chattels & Credits of Capt. Thomas Ames, late of Bridgewater, was appraised by John Ames, Ephraim Fobes and Jonathan Haward on 6 May 1737, not totaled, but his Real Estate with the Buildings was valued at £4649.00, his Quick Stock was valued at £264.15, and he had Credits at ye Forge worth £26.09. Mary Ames, widow, and Thomas Ames, the Executor, gave their oath to the inventory on 6 June 1737.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 7, pp. 298-299, 310-311, from FHL microfilm #0550513.

 

 

Will of Thomas Ames of Bridgewater, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1773) *

I the Name of God Amen The Twenty Eighth Day of September in the Year of our Lord One Thousand Seven Hundred and Seventy Three I Thomas Ames of Bridgwater in the County of Plymouth & Province of the Massachusetts Bay in New England Blacksmith being in a weak State of Health but of Sound mind & Memory Thanks be given to God therefor calling to mind the Mortality of my Body & knowing that is Apointed for all Men once to die do make & ordain this my last Will & Testament That is to Say Principally & First of all I give & Recomend my Soul into the Hand of God that gave it hoping through the Merrits Death & Passion of my Saviour Jesus Christ to have full & free Pardon of all my Sins & to inherit everlasting Life And my Body I comit to the Earth to be decently Buried at the discretion of my Executors hereafter Named nothing doubting but at the General Resurrection I shall receive the Same again by the mighty Power of God. And as Touching such Worldly Estate wherwith it hath Pleased God to bless me in this Life I give demise & dispose of the same in the following Maner & form. –

Imprs. I give into my well beloved Son Thomas Ames all my Homestead Lands together with the Buildings that are thereon excepting only the Liberty of my Son John’s working in the Blacksmiths Shop as is herein after express’d Also I give to my sd. Son Thomas Ten Acres of Land lying on the west Side of Taunton Road (so called) towards Mile Brook also five Acres of Land which I Purchased of Thomas Willis 2d. which lies on the east Side of a way called Aldritche’s Lane Also 3 Acres of Cedar Swamp which I Purchased of William Washburn lying at Eagle’s Nest (so called) Also about one Acre of Cedar Swamp which originally belonged to Ames Purchase Right it lies in the Same Swamp that the aforesd. Three Acres doth & between Jonathan Ames’s Lot & the aforesd. Eagles Nest – Also one half Part of a Peice of a Cedar Swamp lying on the West Side of West Meadow Also one half of Eleven Acres lying in Coweseet Swamp (so called) also one half of two Acres & an half of Land laid out to my Self in Sd. Coweseet Swamp & Also a Piece of Land laid out to my Self (in the Swamp last Mentioned) containing two Acres (more or less) Also all my Right in the Comon or undivided Lands in the Eight Mile grant (so called) in the Township of Bridgwater all the Parcels of Land before mentioned lay in Bridgwater aforesd. & I give them all to my Said Son Thomas & to his Heirs & Assigns forever Also I give to my Sd. Son Thomas all Husbandry Tools & Blacksmith Tools & flock Bed with all the Furnature there to belonging & the uper Part of my desk & a small Trunk my Law Book & one Third Part of my other Books excepting a Book called Magna Charta Also my Silver Hilted Sword all my Horse Tackling & Furnature all my Cyder Barrels & dry Casks one half of my wearing Aparel & one half of largest Brass Kettle my meal Chest & Cheese Press & my Clock all to be disposed of as he shall See Cause –

Item I give unto my well beloved Son John Ames all my Lands at Mile Brook that lay on the easterly Side of Taunton Road (so called) that are not herein otherwise dispose’d of Also all the Cedar Swamp that was origanially Ames’s & that lies between Capt Josiah Snells Lot & Jonathan Ames’s Lot, Also one half of a Peice of Cedar Swamp lying on the West side of Hemlock Island (so called) Also one half of Eleven Acres lying in Coweseet Swamp (so called) And one half of a Tow Acres & an half of Land land laid out to myself (in Sd. Coweeset Swamp) adjoyning his own Land Also one Sixteenth Part of a Saw Mill called the Town Saw Mill. All these Parcells of land herein mentioned to be given to my Son John Ames in Bridgwater & to his Heirs & assigns forever Also I give to my Sd. Son John one half of my largest Brass Kettle my Brass Hilted Sword a Book called Magna Charta & one third part of my other Books excepting my Law Book one half of my wearing Aparel One flock Bed & its furnature all to be at his dispose. Also the liberty of working his own Stock in my Blacksmiths Shop so long as he shall bear his Proportionable Part from Time to Time in the Necessary Reparation’s thereto belonging –

Item I give to my Well beloved Son Sylvanus Ames Eighteen Shillings to be Paid to him by my Executor hereafter Named in Six Months next after my decease & the reason that I now give him no more is because I have heretofore given him what of my estate I determined to give him

Item I give to my well beloved Daughter Mehitable Fobes all my Indoor Moveables that are not herein otherwise disposed of – Also one Third part of my Books excepting my Law Book & a Book called Magna Charta And the Reason I give to my Sd. Daughter Mehitable no more is because I have heretofore given her a Considerable Portion of my Estate ~

Item I give to my beloved Grand Daughter Susanna Snell a Feather Bed & the Furnature belonging to it –

Item I give to my two beloved Grand Children namely Barnabas Snell & Abigail Snell one Dollar Apiece to be Paid to them by my Executors hereafter named in Six Months next After my Decease –

Item I give to my Two beloved Grandsons namely David Howard & Amasa Howard one dollar apeice to be paid to them by my Executors hereafter named in Six Months next after my Deceas –

And I do hereby constitute make & ordain my Two afore named Sons Thomas & John Executors of this my Last Will & Testament

And further it is my Will that my Just debts be paid & my Funeral Charges defrayed by my Executors aforenamed & to enable them so to do I give them all the debts owing to me on Book & Notes of Hand & all my Quick Stock Also all my Estate not herein Particularly disposed of I give unto my two Sons namly Thomas & John to be equally divided between them And I do hereby utterly disallow revoke & disannul all and every other & former Wills Legacies, Bequests & Executors by me in any ways before named Willed & Bequeathed rattifying & Confirming this & no other to be my last Will & Testament in Witness whereof I have hereunto Set my Hand & Seal the day & Year first afore written ~

Sign’d Seal’d Published Pronounced & declared by                                                    Thomas Ames                    (seal)

the Sd Thomas Ames as his last Will & Testament

in Presence of us the Subscribers

Joseph Ames

[the other witnesses’ names cut off]

 

Presented for probate on 5 Dec. 1774 by Thomas Ames and John Ames, the Executors therein named, and proved by Joseph Ames and Joseph Ames Jur., two of the Witnesses, the third witness being Jerah Swift. Letters of Administration were granted to Thomas Ames and John Ames, the Executors, with Joseph Eames and Joseph Eames Junr., both of Bridgwater, as sureties.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 21, p. 636-638, from FHL microfilm #0550712.

 

 

Will of Jonathan Atwood of Carver, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1854) *

        Know all men by these presents, that I Jonathan Atwood of the town of Carver in the County of Plymouth and State of Massachusetts, farmer, being of sound disposing mind and memory, do make and publish publicly in my own house, my doors being open, this instrument, which I solemnly do declare to be my last Will and Testament.

First: I give and bequeath to my beloved wife Nancy, Ten Shares of stock in the Wareham Bank, at Wareham, Five Hundred Dollars in Cash, or good notes of hand drawing interest; the use of all my household furniture, and fire-wood enough for one fire during her natural life: The aforesaid bequest to be in lieu of her lawful dower in my estate:

Second. I give and bequeath to my beloved daughter Lucy Gibbs of Middleboro’, in the County of Plymouth and State of Massachusetts, the sum of Three Hundred Dollars in Cash or good Notes of hand bearing interest.

Third. I give and bequeath to my beloved grand children Thompson, Elisha and Eliza Ann Murdock, also Nancy Atwood, wife of Joseph Atwood, each the sum of Three Hundred Dollars in Cash or good notes of hand, bearing interest: all being residents of the town of Carver in the County of Plymouth and State of Massachusetts.

Fourth. I give and bequeath unto my beloved grandchildren Miranda, Lucius, and George William Atwood, all of the town of Carver in the County of Plymouth and State of Massachusetts, all children of my late son William, deceased, each the sum of Five Hundred Dollars in cash or in good notes of hand, bearing interest.

Fifth: I further give and bequeath unto my beloved grandchildren Lucius and George William Atwood aforesaid equally the following lots of land and Meadow; viz: One lot of meadow lying on South Meadow Brook, and adjoining my late homestead farm, and which I purchased of James Wright ~   One undivided half part of a Wood-lot adjoining the homestead farm of Ephraim Griffith, and which I purchased of Jesse Murdock, Guardian of said Ephraim Griffith, said lot contains nine acres.   One undivided half part of a piece of meadow land adjoining my late homestead farm on the South; said lot contains one acre, and is owned with Thomas Hubbard, One lot of Wood-land adjoining my late homestead farm on the North, and which I purchased of Joshua Atwood of Carver. All these four lots of land lie in the town of Carver, Plymouth County and State of Massachusetts. For a further description and other particulars in regard to the said lots, reference is to be had to the deeds thereof, and which are now in my possession.

Sixth. I further give and bequeath unto my beloved grand children Miranda, Lucius and George William Atwood aforesaid equally, all the remainder of my property of every name and description whatever, not herein before bequeathed.

Seventh. In case there should not be cash or good notes of hand sufficient at my decease to provide for bequests specified in the second, third and fourth clauses of this instrument, then a deduction must be made on each devisee named therein, according to and in proportion to the amounts given to each.

Eighth. I hereby ordain and appoint Joseph Atwood and William Savery as Executors of this my last Will and Testament.

                In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and seal, and publish and solemnly declare this instrument to be my last Will and Testament in the presence of the Witnesses named below, this twenty sixth day of May in the year of our Lord, eighteen hundred and fifty four. 1854.

                                                                                                                                                Jonathan Atwood                                             (seal)

Signed, sealed, published and declared by the said Jonathan Atwood as and for his last Will and Testament, in presence of us, who in his presence, and in the presence of each other, and at his request have hereunto subscribed our names as Witnesses.

Thompson Murdock’s name erased                                                                                 Cephas Shaw

above and William Savery’s inserted                                                                              Asaph Atwood Jr.

in its place.                                                                                                                           Wm Savery

 

Presented for probate on the first Tuesday of August, 1854 by Joseph Atwood and William Savery, the Executors therein named, and proved by Cephas Shaw and Asaph Atwood Jr., two of the Witnesses whose names are subscribed thereto.

 

Joseph Atwood and William Savery, of Carver, were appointed as Executors of the last Will and Testament of Jonathan Atwood, late of Carver, yeoman, on 1 Aug. 1854, with Matthias Ellis and Ellis Griffith, of Carver, as sureties. Joseph Barrows and John Bent, of Carver, and Cephas Shaw, of Middleborough, were appointed to appraise the estate of Jonathan Atwood, late of Carver, on 17 July 1854.

 

An Inventory of the Estate of Jonathan Atwood late of Carver, yeoman, was appraised by Joseph Barrows, John Bent and Cephas Shaw on 29 July 1854, his real estate valued at $179.50, and his personal estate totaled $6194.81, including $5262.91 in notes of hand. Joseph Atwood and William Savery, the Executors, gave their oath to the inventory on the first Tuesday of Aug. 1854.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 96, pp. 293-295, 295-296, from FHL microfilm #0555642, and Vol. 2H, p. 430.

 

 

Will of Lydia Atwood of Carver, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1822) *

In the name of God, Amen. I Lydia Atwood of Carver in the County of Plymouth, considering the uncertainty of this mortal life and being of sound mind and memory blessed be Almighty God for the same, do make and publish this my last Will & Testament in manner and form following that is to say.

        I give and bequeath to my five sons or their heirs Eli Atwood William Atwood, Francis Atwood, Asaph Atwood and Jonathan Atwood, all of my moveable property except what is hereafter mentioned by their paying Ninety dollars to the children of my daughter Lydia Shaw late of Carver deceased, Not to be paid till they arrive to the age of Twenty one years.

        I give and bequeath to my Grand daughters my Wearing apparell to be divided equal among them. I also give and bequeath to my Grand daughter Lucia Shaw one pair of Cotton Sheets. I also give and bequeath to my Grand daughter Lydia Atwood daughter of William Atwood my Gold Necklace towards her share in the above mentioned apparel. I hereby appoint Eli Atwood Executor of this my last Will and Testament, hereby revoking all former Wills be me made.

        In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal the ninth day of February One thousand eight hundred and twenty two

                                                                                                                                                Lydia Atwood                    (seal)

Signed sealed published and declared by the above named Lydia Atwood

to be her last Will and Testament in the presence of us who at her request

and in her presence have hereunto subscribed out names at Witnesses

to the same

        Abner Weston

        Nath’l Shurtleff, 2d.

        William Atwood 2d

 

Probated on 15 Feb. 1830, and proved by Nathaniel Shurtleff 2d and William Atwood 2d, two of the witnesses.

 

John Savery of Carver, Seth Morton and Wm Atwood 2d, of Middleborough, were appointed to appraise the estate of Lydia Atwood, late of Carver, on 15 Feb. 1830. The Inventory, not dated, totaled $852.04, no real estate. Eli Atwood, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 12 Apr. 1830.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 69, pp. 3, 149-150, from FHL microfilm #0555260.

 

 

Will of William Atwood of Middleborough, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1851) *

In the name of God Amen I William Atwood of Middleborough in the County of Plymouth and State of Massachusetts being of sound and disposing mind and memory do make and publish this my last Will and Testament

  My Will is that all my just debts, sickness, funeral expenses and charges to be paid by my Executor hereinafter out of my estate as soon after my death as shall by him be convenient. –

First.  I give and bequeath to my wife Lois Atwood one dollar to my son Josiah E. Atwood and to William W. Atwood and to my daughter Julia A. Atwood each one dollar to be paid to each of the above by my executor hereinafter named within six months after my decease to be for their sole use for themselves their heirs executors administrators and assigns

Second I give and bequeath to my daughter Fanny S. Bradford all my real and personal estate of whatever name or nature of which I may die seized and possessed for her sole use to have and to hold the same, her heirs, executors administrators assigns forever. –

Lastly, I do appoint Winslow Bradford as Executor of this my last Will and Testament

  In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal and publish and declare this to be my last Will and Testament in the presence of the witnesses named below this twenty ninth day of March in the year One thousand Eight hundred and fifty one. –

                                                                                                                                                William Atwood

                                                                                                                                         by Edward Stetson                                 (seal)

Signed by the said Edwd Stetson, and in the presence of the said William Atwood, and by his express direction and by the said William Atwood at the time published and declared as his last Will and Testament in the presence of the said Edwd Stetson and of us who each in the presence of the other and of the William Atwood and of the said Edward Stetson have hereunto set our hands as subscribing witnesses

                                                George Sturtevant

                                                Ebenezer Vaughan

                                                George Thompson

 

Presented for probate on the first Tuesday of May 1851 by Winslow Bradford, the Executor therein named, and proved by George Sturtevant, Ebenezer Vaughan and George Thompson, the Witnesses whose names are subscribed thereto.

 

  To the Judge of Probate for the County of Plymouth, the subscriber the Widow of William Atwood late of Middleborough in said County decd. hereby waives the provision made for her in and by the last Will & Testament of her said husband & declines accepting the same & claims her Dower & such other portions of his estate as she may be entitled to by law.

Middleborough May 6, 1851.                                                                                           Lois Atwood

 

Winslow Bradford was appointed as Executor of the last Will and Testament of William Atwood, late of Middleborough, Yeoman, on 6 May 1851, with Samuel Bradford and Samuel N. Bradford, of Plympton, as sureties. William H. Soule, George W. Sherman and Jonathan Rickard, all of Plympton, were appointed to appraise the estate of William Atwood, late of Middleborough, on 14 Apr. 1851.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of William Atwood, late of Middleborough, was appraised by Wm H. Soule, George W. Sherman and Jonathan Rickard on 22 Apr. 1851, his real estate valued at $349, and his personal estate totaled $212.31. Winslow Bradford, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on the first Tuesday of July 1851.

 

Samuel Thompson, of Middleborough, William S. Savery, of Carver, and William S. Eddy, of Middleborough, were appointed to set off to Lois Atwood, widow of William Atwood, late of Middleborough, Yeoman, one third part of the real estate of her late husband as her dower in his estate on 6 May 1851. The division was dated 21 May 1851, approved by Lois Atwood and Winslow Bradford, and approved by the court on the first Tuesday of Aug. 1851.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 93, pp. 171-173, 279-280, and 313-314, from FHL microfilm #0555641, and Vol. 2H, p. 262.

 

 

Will of Capt. Moses Ayres of Brookfield, Worcester County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1796) *

                In the Name of God Amen

I Moses Ayres of Brookfield in the County of Worcester and Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Gentleman Considering the uncertainty of this Mortal Life, and being of Sound and perfect mind and Memory, Blessed be almighty God for the same, Do Make and publish this my Last will and Testament in Manner and form following, (that is to Say)

First My Will is that all my Just Debts and funeral Charges be first paid Out of my Estate by my Executors herein after named —

Secondly I Give and Bequeath to my Beloved wife Sarah Ayres the Improvement of One third of my Real Estate During her Natural Life, with the Easterly part of the house from the Bottom of the Cellar to the Garret, with the priveledge of Using the Kitchen for Necessary and Convenient purposes, also the priveledge of Cutting fire Wood Sufficient for her Consumption, Together with a priveledge in the Barn Sufficient for storing her hay Grain &c and keeping her live Stock, also the Improvement of all my household furniture and Movables During Said term, with Liberty of Using Stairs and Entry ways as shall be Convenient, I also give her One Riding Horse, One Cow, four sheep, and one swine to be at her sole Disposal —

Thirdly I Give to my son Moses Ayres One Dollar, with one third of my pew in the meeting house

Fourthly I Give to my Daughter Sarah Washburn Sixty Six Dollars and Sixty seven Cents to be paid in one year after my Decease —

Fifthly I Give to my Son Eli Ayres one Dollar

Sixthly I Give to my Son Jesse Ayres thirty three Dollars and thirty three Cents to be paid with the foregoing Legacies in One year after my Decease —

Seventhly I Give, Bequeath and Devise to my two Sons Jude, and Increase Ayres all my Real Estate that I have not heretofore Disposed of, including two thirds of my Pew in the Meeting house, (Reserving however to my Wife the Right of Setting in Said pew During her Natural life,) Consisting of all my Messuage or tennement, Situate Lying and being in Brookfield aforesaid, with all my freehold Estate Whenever found, and Described Refference being had to my Deed, or Deeds of the same, to Hold to the Said Jude and Increase Ayres, their Heirs and assigns forever, I also Give them all the Residue of my Live Stock, Farming tools and utensils of Every kind, Wearing apparel, Books and all other Estate not mentioned in this Will the same mentioned Estate, both Real and personal to be Divided in Equal shares between them, and after my wifes Decease, the household furniture and movables shall be Divided in Equal shares between my two Last Mentioned sons and my Daughter Sarah Washburn

Lastly I Name, Constitute and appoint my two Sons Jude and Increase Ayres Joynt Executors of this Will, hereby Revoking and disannulling all former Wills by me made —

In Witness whereof I have hereunto Set my hand and seal this first Day of April in the year of our Lord one thousand Seven hundred and Ninety Six —

Signed, Sealed, Published and

Declared, by the above named

Moses Ayres to be his Last Will                                                                                        Moses Ayres                                      (seal)

and Testament in presence of

us who have hereunto Sub-

scribed our Names as Wit-

nesses in presence of the

Testator –

Benjn, Adams

Betsy Adams

Charles Adams

 

Presented for probate on 26 Dec. 1796, and approved on 3 Jan. 1797. Letters of Administration were granted to Jude Ayres and Increase Ayres, with Moses Ayres and Daniel Gilbert, Gentlemen, all of Brookfield, as sureties.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Worcester County Probate Case #2194.

 

 

Will of Hannah Backus of Middleborough, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1848) *

     Be it remembered that I Hannah Backus of Middleborough in the County of Plymouth and Commonwealth of Massachusetts, single woman, considering the uncertainty of life & wishing to settle my wordly affairs while I health & strength to do it, do make & publish my last will & testament in manner and form following.

First. I give & bequeath to my brother Andrew Backus the sum of twenty five dollars to be to him by my brother Joseph A. Backus out of what is given to him by this will.

Second  I give to my sister Eunice B. Stevens the wife of Isaac Stevens my best bed & bedding my two silver spoons (table spoons) & six silver tea spoons

Third. I give to Angeline Backus the wife of my brother Joseph A. Backus, my other bed & bedding & two silver tea spoons.

Fourth. If my stepmother Ruth Backus shall out live me, I give to her the use of so much of my house-hold furniture as she may wish for during her life.

Fifth. As to all the rest & residue of my estate as well real as personal I give, bequeath & devise the same (after paying my just debts & funeral charges) to my said sister Eunice B. Stevens & my said brother Joseph A. Backus in equal shares & to their several heirs & assigns forever. the said Joseph A. paying the legacy of twenty five dollars to my brother Andrew out of his share. But in case it should so happen that my said brother Joseph A. should not outlive me then and in that event I give the whole of said residue to my said sister her heirs and assigns. & in that case she shall pay the legacy to my said brother Andrew and it is my will that if my said sister shall not outlive me that all which is given to her by this will shall go to her children & their heirs forever & I give & devise the same accordingly, lastly I appoint my said brother Joseph A Backus executor of this will revoking all former wills. In witness whereof I have set my hand & seal this thirteenth day of July in the year eighteen hundred & forty eight.        Hannah Backus                 (seal)

Signed sealed & declared by Hannah Backus as her last will in presence of us who at her request & in her presence set our names as witnesses.

                                                                                                                                                Allen Thatcher

                                                                                                                                                Elizabeth A. Thatcher

                                                                                                                                                Elizabeth R. P. Thatcher

 

Joseph A. Backus, of Middleborough, was appointed as executor of the estate of Hannah Backus, late of Middleborough, singlewoman, on 9 Oct. 1865, with Abraham Perkins and Joseph Hathaway, of Middleborough, as sureties.

 

Abraham Perkins, Nahum Keith and Joseph Hathaway were appointed to appraise the estate of Hannah Backus, late of Middleborough, on 20 July 1865. Her personal estate totaled $1153.08, no real estate. Joseph A. Backus, the executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 9 Oct. 1865.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 105, p. 286-287, from FHL microfilm #0555647, Vol. 114, p. 329, from FHL microfilm #0554699, and Vol. 109, p. 121, from FHL microfilm #0554696.

 

 

Will of Rev. Isaac Backus of Middleborough, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1805) *

                In the name of God amen. I Isaac Backus of Middleborough in the County of Plymouth in New England Clerk, calling to mind the mortality of my Body, & the Uncertainty of the time of my death, but being of a sound & disposing Mind & memory, do make & constitute this my last will will & Testament in the manner following viz. I resign my soul to God who gave it, & my Body to the Earth to be decently buried at the discretion of my Executor, in full assurance of receiving it again by a glorious Resurrection at the last day, by the Power of our Lord Jesus Christ. and I dispose of the temporal Estate which he has given me in the following manner. —  

                Imprimis. I give to my Daughters Hannah Nelson, Eunice Dean & Lucy Fobes, an hundred & fifty Dollars to each, & Fifty Dollars to Lois Allen out of my money at interest. —

                Item I give to the Corporation of the Brown University at Providence, these Books. viz. Extracts from Williams on the Bloody tenant, Cotton against him, and his reply, also his dispute with the Quakers, Clarke on his Sufferings at Boston, Johnsons History of New England, Josseline, two Books on this County a number of Connecticut Pamphlets bound together, & also my dispute with Fish –

                Item, I give to my Son Simon Backus my Farm at home with all the buildings thereon, & also my woodland at a distance, all as his own property & my pew in our Baptist Meeting house, likewise I give him, my private Diary and Journals of my travels for above fifty years – and I constitute him my sole Executor of this my last will and Testament —

                Finally I give my wearing Apparel & all the rest of my Books & papers of every kind, with all other of my indoor & outdoor moveable Goods, live Stock & the rest of my money at Interest, to be equally divided between my Children Hannah Nelson, Nathan Backus, Isaac Backus, Eunice Dean, Lois Allen Lucy Fobes, and Simon Backus, & I revoke & disannul all former Wills & Testaments & Executors by me made and declared and constitute this as my only last Will and Testament in witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand & seal this 7th. day of November A.D. 1805 & in the thirtieth Year of American Independence ~ Signed, pronounced, sealed and delivered as my last will and Testament in presence of

   Elijah Reed

   Paul Hathaway 2d.

   Lois Hathaway                                                                                                                 Isaac Backus                                     (seal)

 

Presented for probate on 16 Dec. 1806 by Simon Backus, the Executor therein named, and proved by Elijah Reed and Paul Hathaway ye 2d, two of the Witnesses thereto subscribed.

 

Asael Shaw, Housewright, Solomon Alden junr., Gentleman, both of Bridgewater, and Paul Hathaway ye 2d., of Middleborough, Gentleman, were appointed to appraise the Estate of Isaac Backus, late of Middleborough, Clerk, on 16 Dec. 1806. The Inventory of the Estate of the Revd. Isaac Backus, late of Middleborough, was not dated, his real estate valued at $2157, including his homestead containing 53-2/2 acres with buildings valued at $1800, and a 21-acre woodlot in Middleborough valued at $257, and his personal estate totaled $3109.09, including a library valued at $1062.72, and $1706 in notes of hand. The appraisers gave their oath to the inventory on 10 Mar. 1807, and Simon Backus, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 29 Apr. 1807.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 42, pp. 2-3, 66, from FHL microfilm #0550902.

 

 

Will of Ruth Backus of Middleborough, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1842) *

                Be it remembered, that I, Ruth Backus, of Middleborough in the County of Plymouth, & State of Massachusetts, do make and publish this my last Will & Testament in manner following.

                First.— I give and bequeath to Eunice B. Stevens wife of Isaac Stevens of Athol, in in the County of Worcester, my gold necklace.

                Second. I give and bequeath to Hannah Backus of Middleborough, one bed and bedding & bedstead & my chaise & harness.

                Third. As to all the residue of the Estate of which I may die possessed, (after paying my just debts and funeral charges,) I give and bequeath the same to the said Eunice B. Stevens, Hannah Backus, & Joseph A. Backus of said Middleboro’ to be equally divided between them, and if either of them should die in my lifetime, leaving no children living at my decease, then it is my Will that the whole shall go to the survivors or to the survivor & the child or children of any one of them, who may have deceased, leaving a child or children;

                The child or children of any deceased legatee to take the same property under this Will as the parent or legatee would have taken if living at the time of my decease.

                And I do appoint Joseph A. Backus, Executor of this Will.

                In witness whereof, I have hereunto set my hand & seal, this fourteenth day of October in the year eighteen hundreds and forty two.

                                                                                                                                                Ruth Backus                                      (seal)

                Signed, sealed & published by Ruth Backus, as her last Will in presence of us, who, at her request and in her presence, have set our names as witnesses.

                Paul Hathaway                                                                                                    Lois Hathaway

                                                                                Lois G. Clark

 

Presented for probate on the first Tuesday of May 1858 by Joseph A. Backus, the Executor therein named, and proved by Paul Hathaway and Lois Hathaway, two of the witnesses whose names are subscribed thereto.

 

Joseph A. Backus was appointed as Executor of the last Will and Testament of Ruth Backus, late of Middleboro, widow, on 4 May 1858, with Theodore H. Holden and Paul Hathaway, of Middleborough, as sureties. Abraham Perkins, Otis Pratt and Robert Clark, all of Middleborough, were appointed to appraise the estate of Ruth Backus, late of Middleborough, on 4 May 1858.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Ruth Backus, late of Middleborough, was appraised by Abraham Perkins, Robert Clark and Otis Pratt, not dated or totaled, no real estate, but 2½ shares in Taunton Bank valued at $250, and 1/3 of a pew in the Baptist Meeting House valued at $20. Joseph A. Backus, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on the first Tuesday of Aug. 1858.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 100, pp. 183-184, 300-301, from FHL microfilm #0555644, and Vol. 3J, p. 69, from FHL microfilm #0550509.

 

 

Will of Simon Backus of Middleborough, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1833) *

In the Name of God, Amen. I Simon Backus of Middleboro, in the County of Plymouth and Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Yeoman, Being in an infirm State of body, but of sound and disposing mind; and realizing that it is appointed unto all men once to die, do proceed to make my last Will and testament, and publish the same in the following manner,

First of all, I commend my soul unto God who gave it, thro’ the merits and mediation of the glorious Redeemer, and my body to the dust whence it was taken, to be buried in a Christian manner in the hope of a resurrection to a glorious immortality, –

And as touching such worldly estate as it hath pleased God to bestow upon me in this life, I give and dispose of it in the following Manner,

1. To my beloved wife, Ruth Backus, I give three shares in the Taunton Bank, my chaise and harness, One good Cow, to be well kept for her the year round, Five cords and an half of good fire wood to be cut and drawn and corded at the door, Nine bushels good Indian Corn, three bushels of Good Rye, and ten bushels of good Potatoes, Also one third part of my house-hold furniture and books, the foregoing I give and bequeath to her, her heirs and assigns forever, – I also give her the use and improvement of one third part (with a privelege in the Out buildings) of my house, and the right of a seat in my pew in the Baptist meeting house, in the parish during her Natural life,

2. To my Son, Andrew Backus, of Columbus Ohio, I give three hundred dollars to be paid in one year After my decease,

3. To my daughter, Eunice B. Stevens, I give my lot of Woodland lying near the Turnpike Gate, the same that was purchased of Deacon John Morton, and known by the name of the Morton Lot, containing twelve Acres, more or less. – said Lot lying in Middleborough aforesaid, Also one sixth part of my household furniture and books, – to her heirs, and assigns forever.—

4. To my daughter Hannah Backus I give a small lot of land, lying in said Middleboro’, near Obadiah Sampson’s, the same I bought of John Fobes, containing about seven Acres, the same more or less, Also Six hundred dollars to be paid one year after my decease, Also one third part of my house hold furniture and books, to her, her heirs, and assigns forever, I also give her the privelege of a Seat in my pew in the Baptist Meeting house in said Parish, and the use and improvement of one sixth part of my house, with a privelege in the outbuildings, so long as she may need them,

5. To my son Joseph A. Backus, I give my house-Farm, and all the residue of my estate, both real and personal not otherwise disposed of, to him, his heirs, and Assigns forever, and I do hereby appoint and constitute him sole executor of this my last Will and Testament, revoking hereby all former Wills and testaments heretofore made and named declaring and ratifying this and confirming it to be my last Will and testament; it being well understood that this legacy to my Son, and Executor last mentioned is subject to the payment of my just debts, the foregoing legacies in this Will, and the life incumbrances therein specified,

In Witness Whereof, I, the said Simon Backus, have hereunto set my hand and Seal this eighteenth day of July in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and thirty three.

                                                                                                                                                Simon Backus                                   (seal)

Signed, sealed and delivered, published and declared by the said Simon Backus, to be his last Will and Testament in presence of us,

        Morrill Robinson

        Obadiah Sampson Jr

        Philip Colby

 

Presented for probate on 5 Nov. 1833, and proved by Morrill Robinson and Obadiah Sampson Junr., two of the subscribing witnesses.

Whereas the Instrument hereunto annexed purporting to be the last Will and Testament of Simon Backus late of said Middleborough Yeoman deceased has been proved, approved, and allowed, and whereas you, the said John [sic] A. Backus are named in the said Will, as Executor, thereof and whereas you have Accepted said trust by giving bond as the law directs to pay said deceaseds debts and the legacies given in said will, I do therefore commit unto you the said John [sic] A Backus the Administration of the Estate of said Simon Backus in all matters the same concerning, within this Commonwealth, well and faithfully to execute the said Will, and to administer the Estate of the said deceased according thereto, And you shall render an Account upon Oath of your proceedings, when thereunto lawfully required,

In testimony Whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and Seal of Office this fifth day of November in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and thirty three

                                                                                                                                                Wilkes Wood,

Joseph A. Backus posted bond, with Isaac Stevens and Morrill Robinson, all of Middleborough, as sureties on 5 Nov. 1833.

No inventory of the estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 74, p. 373-375, from FHL microfilm #0555262, and Plymouth County Probate Docket #646.

 

 

Will of Samuel W. Bagnell of Plymouth, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1848) *

Be it remembered, That I Samuel W Bagnell of Plymouth, of sound mind and memory, make this my last Will and Testament in manner and form following that is to say

First. I devise my Dwelling House to my wife during her natural life, subject to this provision viz. that each of my daughters Martha James, Ann Minerva and Sarah F may have a home there, while such daughters may remain single

Second. I bequeath to my wife, her Executors and Administrators forever all my Household furniture, and movables in the house

Third I bequeath to my Daughter Sarah F. Bagnell, one share in the Old Colony Bank to her, her Executors and administrators for ever

Fourth, I direct that all my Debts, funeral charges and the Expences of Administration shall be paid from money coming to me, or to my Executor, from the estate of my mother, whether as heir, or by way of claim on said estate, and what surplus may remain, if any, after the payment of such debts, charges and expences, I bequeath to my wife

Fifth. All the rest and residue of my estate including my Dwelling House after the death of my wife, I devise and bequeath to my Daughter Sarah F Bagnell, leaving my blessing to my children viz. Benjamin, Samuel W. Bethiah Stewart Lois T. Barnes Martha James, and Ann Minerva

Sixth I appoint Henry O. Stewart to the Executer of this my last Will and Testament

        In Testimony whereof on this sixth day of June eighteen hundred and forty Eight I hereto set my hand.

                                                                                                                                                Samuel W. Bagnell                              (seal)

        Signed, Published and declared by the afore named Samuel W. Bagnell, as and for his last Will and Testament, in presence of us who, by his request, and in his presence, sign our names as Witnesses hereto

                William Thomas

                John Perkins

                John Churchill

 

        Plymouth Ss. Nov. 17, 1848 To the Hon. Judge of Probate for the County of Plymouth

        I do hereby decline acting as Executor in trust of the within Instrument

                                                                                                                                                H. O. Steward

 

Presented for probate on the first Monday of Dec. 1848 by Minerva Bagnell, interested therein and notice having been given to all persons interested, to appear at this time and place and shew cause if any they have against the Probate thereof, and proved by William Thomas and John Perkins, two of the witnesses whose names are subscribed thereto.

 

Minerva Bagnall, of Plymouth, was granted Administration with the Will annexed of the Estate of Samuel W. Bagnall, late of Plymouth, on 4 Dec. 1848, Henry O. Steward named in said Will as Executor thereof having declined that trust, with Ellis Barnes Jun. and Benjamin Bramhall, both of Plymouth, as sureties.

Ellis Barnes Jr., Phinehas Wells and Daniel Goddard, all of Plymouth, were appointed to appraise the estate of Samuel W. Bagnall, late of Plymouth, on 4 Dec. 1848.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Samuel W. Bagnell, late of Plymouth, was not dated, his dwelling house valued at $583.33, and his personal estate totaled $210.34. Minerva Bagnell, the Administrator with the Will annexed on the estate of Samuel W. Bagnall, late of Plymouth, gave her oath to the inventory on 17 Feb. 1849.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 90, p. 496-498, from FHL microfilm #0555639, Vol. 10A, p. 571, and Vol. 91, p. 38-39.

 

 

Will of Nahum Bailey of Kingston, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1858) *

Be it known that I Naham Bailey of Kingston in the County of Plymouth & Commonwealth of Massachusetts, being in my usual health & of sound mind & memory do make, publish & declare this instrument to be my last Will & Testament in manner following, to wit.

First. I declare that I hold my children Nahum Bailey, Sarah A. Washburn, Christiana Washburn, Ann W. Bailey & Emily A. Miller in affectionate remembrance, but I do not think it expedient to make any devise or bequest to them or either of them, having entire confidence that my wife will use the estate which I may leave for her own comfort & support & at her decease will cause the same or whatever shall then remain to be suitably distributed and disposed of at her discretion.

        I therefore give, devise & bequeath to my wife Christiana W. Bailey all the estate both Real & personal which I shall leave at my decease & in which I shall have any interest whatever to have & to hold to her the said Christiana W. Bailey & to her heirs & assigns forever, & I do nominate & appoint her to be the sole executrix of this will.

        In testimony whereof I the said Nahum Bailey have hereunto set my hand & seal this seventeenth day of September in the year one thousand eight hundred & fifty eight.

                                                                                                                                                Nahum Bailey                                                   (seal)

Signed, sealed, published & declared by the above named Nahum Bailey as & for his last Will & Testament in presence of us, who at his request, in his presence & in presence of each other have hereto subscribed our names as witnesses.

                                                                                                                                                Jacob H. Loud

                                                                                                                                                Jno. J. Russell

                                                                                                                                                Wm S. Danforth

Should my daughter Ann W. Barstow outlive myself & wife it is my wish that she Ann W. Barstow have the Homestead.

                                                                                                                                                Nahum Bailey

Kingston Sept. 8th. 1871.

 

Presented for probate on the fourth Monday of Nov. 1876 by Christiana W. Bailey, of Kingston, with Nahum Bailey and W. H. Burgess, of Kingston, as sureties. Letters Testamentary were granted to Christiana W. Bailey, of Kingston, on 27 Nov. 1876.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 142, p. 127-128, from FHL microfilm #0556649, and Vol. 134, p. 70.

 

 

Will of John Baker of Jefferson, Coshocton Co., Ohio (1855) *

     In the name of the Benevolent Father of all.

I John Baker of Jefferson township in Coshocton County and State of ohio do make and publish this my last will and testament

Item 1st I give and devise to my beloved wife Mary Baker all my property and effects of every discription consisting of all the household furniture goods and chattels lands and tenements monies and credits to have the same during her lifetime by her paying out of the same all my just debts.

Item 2nd At the death of my beloved wife all the property both real and personal is to be appraised and sold if it cannot be otherwise divided and apportioned among my children as here in after mentioned to my daughter Hannah the sum of five dollars to the rest of my children that may be living; all the remainder of my estate is to be divided equally between them except my son Jesse Baker who is to have twenty dollars over and above his equal Share

In testimony where of I have hereunto Set my hand and Seal this 3rd day of November AD 1855.

                                                                                                                                                John Baker                                         (seal)

Signed and acknowledged by John Baker as his last will and testament in our presence and Signed by us in his presence

                                                                                                                                                James Gamble

                                                                                                                                                Basley Parish

 

Presented for probate on the ___ day of ___ AD 1856, and proved by Basley Parish and ______ two of the subscribing witnesses to said will.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Coshocton County Will Records, Vol. E, p. 486-487, from FHL microfilm #0894327.

 

 

Will of Zachariah Baker of Carroll County, Ohio (1841) *

I Zackarah Baker of the County of Carroll and State of Ohio do mak and publish this my last Will and Testament in manner and form following that is to say first I bequeath to my Wife Susan Baker at my death the one third of all that is saised the farm I now live on during her lifetime and at her death I bequeath the farm to my son Othe Williams Baker. I also give to my Wife Susan Baker one mare saddle and bridle, and two Cows and seven head of Hogs, now on the farm the use of the House we now live in and Garden and all the House hold furnature and One hundred Dollars. Second I allow my dughter Cassa Muckleroy the sum of Fifty Dollars in money, and five head of Sheep. Third I give my son Nathaniel Bakers son Zackarias Baker the sum of Five Dollars. Fourthly, I give to my Grand dughter Peggy Smith one cow and Calf. Fifthly I give to my duter Elizabeth English the sum of ten dollars. Sith I give to my daughter Christna Endley the sum of ten Dollars, and lastly my will is that any money that is on hand or justly comming to me at my death to be equally divded to my sons, Zephaniah Baker Evin Baker Eli Baker Samuel Baker, Abraham Baker James Haney Baker John Baker and Zale Baker and I do hereby appoint my two sons Samuel and James Baker my Executors of this my last will and Testament, to which I do subscribe my name this twenty fourth day of November A D 1841

                                                                                                                                                                    his      

Samuel Buchannan                                                                                                             Zachariah  X  Baker

Saml Dunlap Sr.                                                                                                                                       mark

 

The will of Zackariah Baker, deceased, was presented for probate on 21 Mar. 1842 by proved by Samuel Buckannon and Samuel Dunlap Sr., the two subscribing witnesses.

Thereupon the Court, order that Letters Testamentary issue unto the said James Baker and Samuel Baker, the Executors named in said Will, that they give bond with Evin Baker and Isaac Wallace as their securities in the sum of Two Hundred Dollars who are approved as such. Thereupon Alexander Tripp Isaac M. Wallace and Anderson Wallace were appointed apraisers of Property Thereupon Letters Testamentary were issued unto the said James & Samuel Baker and Recorded in Letter Record A. Page 120.

                                                                                                                                                Daniel M. Cook

                                                                                                                                                                                Clk

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Carroll County Wills Vol. A, p. 432-434, from FHL microfilm #0333252.

 

 

Will of Ebenezer Barlow of Rochester, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1754) *

In the Name of God Amen; this Seventh Day of May, Anno, Domi, One Thousand Seven hundred & fifty four I Ebenezer Barlow of Rochester in the County of Plimo, in the province of the Massachusets Bay in New England Yeoman Doe, make and Ordain this my last Will & Testament, First I Give my Soul to God that Gave it, & my body to the Ground to be Buried by my Execx, hereafter named and as Touching such Worldly Estate as it hath pleased God to Bless me I Give and Dispose of the Same in the Following manner and form –

First I Give to Rachell my Dearly Beloved Wife the Improvement of all my Estate both Real & personall so long as shall Remain my Widdow, and my Two Daughters shall both Remain in an Unmarried, life upon Conditions hereafter named, Only Reserveing some part of my personal Estate as I shall Dispose of in this my Will, She to pay my Debts and Funerall Charges, & Charges of Settleing My Estate Out of my Out Door Moveables, Estate in her hand my Two Daughters to be well Supported Out of the Incom’s thereof dureing their and Eich of their single Life –

Item Will is, that after my wife has Done with my Estate Either by Marrying or by my Daughters Marrying, One or both of them then I say my Will is that my whole Estate shall be Equall Divided between my Two Daughters, Sarah and Mary and the Same to be to them and Each of them to whome I shall Give it and To their heirs and assigns forever; And Furthermore my Will is that in the Division of said Estate., that my Daughter Sarah Shall have that House Lott which is in Number Fourteen which I now live On & the salt Meadow and Island of upland at the Foot of it, and in the Division My Daughter Mary shall have the lott Number Fifteen which was part of Ralph Powells share Originally which my Honrd. Father bought of mr. John Sherman of Marshfield; and Gave me in his last Will & Testament, as also I Give her the Salt Marsh lying at the Foot of it, which is out of, from the said Salt Marsh Given to Sarah by a strip of upland Runing down between my said salt Marsh at the foot of sd. two lotts, also I Give to my said Daughter Mary my lott of salt Marsh at aplace known by the name of pine Island insd. Rochester, and with Relation to all my Other lands my Will is that they be so Divided asto make an Equality in the Settleing my Estate between my said two Daughters, and so also as that in Division my Daughter Sarah shall have Accomputancy of Wood land for Fireing for her use; Furthermore my Will is that when by Either of my Daughters Marrying the whole Estate of my Daughters shall come into their hands, that they allow Suteable house Room to their Mother (if my Widdow) and athird of the profits of my Estate so as to be a Comfortable support to her Dureing her Widdow Hood Estate, and in case she comes to Marry again then I Give her the Bed and Beding she brot. with her, and so much of the Other Houshold Estate as she brought to me at Marrying, as she shall see cause to take; And with Relation to some of my Indoore moveables I Dispose ther of as Followeth, that is to say, I Give to my Daughter Sarah at my Death to be Recd. my case of Draws and my least Chast in the chamber; also I Give her my said Daugter Sarah two Beds, One of them in the East Chamber and One of them in West Chamber with sutable Beding to Each of them; also I Give to my Daughter Mary, my Bigest Chast in the Chamber, and One Bed & Sutable Beding that in the lettle Bed Room below, & also An other Bed not yet made with Beding to it. And to be to her at my Decease, and also in case my Daughter Sarah shall Marry before Mary she to have an Interest in the Westerly end of my Dwelling House Dureing her Single life, & as to the Rest of my personall Estate my Will is that it be Equally Divided between my said two Daughters after my Wives Marriage or Either of said Daughters Marriage –

And I Doe Appoint my Dearly beloved wife Rachel sole Execx. of this my last Will and Testament, Finally I Do hereby Establish this and no Other to be my last Will and Testamt. In Witness whereof I the said Ebenezer Barlow have hereunto Sett my hand and Seal the Day and year first above Written

Signed, Sealed, published, pronounced,

& Declared by me the sd. Ebnr. Barlow                                                                           Ebenezer Barlow                             (seal)

as my last Will and Testament

        In presence of

Ivory Hovey

David Boles

Ebenezer Raymond

Timothy Ruggles

 

Presented for probate on 18 July 1754 by the Execx. therein named, and proved by Ivory Hovey, David Boles, and Timothy Ruggles, three of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to his Widdow Rachell Barlow of Rochester, sole Execx. on 18 July 1754.

 

The Inventory of all the Goods and Estate of Ebenezer Barlow late of Rochester, was appraised on 26 June 1754 by Saml. Wing, George Barlow and Roger Hammond, and totaled £623.1.0, including his homestead farm, mansion house and corn house valued at £436.5.4. Rachell Barlow, the Executrix, gave her oath to the inventory on 17 July 1754.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 13, pp. 309-311, 307-308, from FHL microfilm #0551540.

 

 

Will of Benjamin Barnes of Plymouth, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1863) *

                                I, Benjamin Barnes, of Plymouth in the County of Plymouth, make publish and declare the following as and for my last Will and Testament:

                                First: All my just debts, if any, and the expenses of my last sickness and funeral are to be paid.

                                Second. I give to my son Benjamin all the estate, real and personal of which I may die seized or possessed, or to which I may be entitled; upon condition however that said Benjamin shall comfortably support and maintain, during the life of my wife Betsey Barnes if she shall survive me, my said wife –

                                And said support and maintenance are hereby made a charge upon my real estate in case the same shall be accepted instead of dower by my said wife or her legally appointed Guardian –

                                To have and to hold to him and his heirs and assigns forever, subject as aforesaid.

                                Third. I appoint said Benjamin Executor of this Will, and desire that he be exempted, so far as is possible from giving any bond as such executor.

                                Witness my hand and seal this twenty sixth day of January in the year eighteen hundred & sixty three.

                                                                                                                                                Benjamin Barnes                             (seal)

                                Signed, sealed, published and declared as & for his last Will by Benjamin Barnes aforesaid in our presence who in his presence and at his request and in presence of each other have hereto set our names as witnesses.

                                                                                                                                                Rebecca E. Burgess

                                                                                                                                                Susan W. Leach

                                                                                                                                                Allen Danforth

 

Letters Testamentary were granted on 6 Apr. 1865 to Benjamin Barnes, of Plymouth, with E. C. Finney and E. C. Turner, of Plymouth, as sureties.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 105, p. 170, from FHL microfilm #0555647, and Vol. 114, p. 460 (488).

 

 

Will of Ellis Barnes of Plymouth, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1861) *

                                Be it known that I Ellis Barnes of Plymouth in the County of Plymouth & Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Yeoman, do hereby make, publish and declare this Instrument to be my last Will and Testament in manner & form following, to wit:

                                First. I give & bequeath to Ellis Barnes Jr. & John C. Barnes the sum of twelve hundred dollars to hold to them, their heirs, Executors & Administrators, in trust to & for the following uses & purposes & for none other, to wit: to invest the same in such manner as to my said Trustee shall seem best having regard to security as well as the income thereof; and to pay over from time one fourth part of the net income of said trust fund to Deborah Barnes the widow of my late Son Eleazer H. Barnes deceased for and during the time she shall remain unmarried & the widow of my said son & no longer; all the rest residue & remainder of the income of said trust fund & the principal thereof to be held & managed by said Trustees for the use & benefit of Mary E. Barnes, Arabella Barnes & Alice L. Barnes the children of my said deceased Son Eleazer H. Barnes & the survivor of them if either of them shall die under the age of twenty one years; and said trustees are authorized at their discretion to expend any part of the income of said trust fund for the benefit of said children, limiting the expenditure for each to her equal proportion thereof; and if either of said children by sickness or any other extraordinary cause shall seem to stand in need of any further sum than her equal proportion of the income of said trust fund, then said Trustees are authorized at their discretion to expend such portion of the principal for her relief as he shall think proper, not exceeding in any event her equal proportion of the principal of said trust fund; and whenever either of my said Grand-daughters shall attain the age of twenty one years or be married whichever event shall first happen, then & in that case it is my intention that she shall receive her equal share of the principal of said trust fund & her proportion of the income not before expended for her benefit unless said trustees for reasons satisfactory shall deem it best to withhold the same for a time, which they are authorized to do at their discretion. It is my intention that my said three grand-children shall equally share the principal & the income of said fund subject to the payment of a portion of the income to their mother as before provided, and if either of them should die without having received her share thereof the same or such part thereof as she has not received shall go to the survivor or survivors of them. – I do not make any further provision for the children of my late Son Eleazer as I have already done much for the support of their father’s family and himself.

                                Second. I give devise & bequeath to my Sons Ellis Barns Junior & John C. Barnes & the survivor of them, his heirs, executors & administrators one fifth part of all the rest residue & remainder of my estate real & personal to hold in trust to & for the following uses & purposes & for none other to wit: to manage & improve the same to the best advantage & to invest the income thereof for the benefit of my Son Josiah W. Barnes, and to pay over & deliver the same both principal & interest to my said son if living & in case of his death to his children if he shall have any provided he or they shall call for & demand the same within ten years after my decease, but not otherwise. And in case the same shall not be demanded within said term of time, then I direct said Trustees or Trustee to divide & distribute the same both principal & income equally between my four children Ellis Barnes Junior, Mary E. Goddard, John C. Barnes & Helen Atwood & their legal representatives by right of representation in case of the death of either.

                                Third. I give devise & bequeath all the rest, residue & remainder of all my estate real and personal to my four children Ellis Barnes Junior, Mary E. Goddard wife of Daniel Goddard, John C. Barnes & Helen Atwood wife of Adoniram J. Atwood in equal shares to them & their respective heirs & assigns forever.

                                What I have in this Will given to my daughters Mary E. Goddard & Hele Atwood I give to them to their sole use free from the control & interference of their husbands & to be in no way liable for their present or any further debts or obligations.

                                I nominate & appoint my two Sons to be joint executors of this Will and I revoke any & all other Wills.

                                In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this twenty eighth day of January in the year one thousand eight hundred and sixty one.

                                                                                                                                                Ellis Barnes                                       (seal)

                                Signed, sealed, published and declared by the above named Ellis Barnes as & for his last Will & Testament in presence of us, who at his request, in his presence, and in the presence of each other have hereunto subscribed our names as witnesses.

                                                                                                                                                E. C. Turner

                                                                                                                                                Leavitt Finney

                                                                                                                                                Benjamin Pierce

 

John C. Barnes and Ellis Barnes, both of Plymouth, were confirmed as executors of the last will and testament of Ellis Barnes, late of Plymouth, on 2 Dec. 1861, with Harvey Weston and Bradford Barnes, of Plymouth, as sureties.

 

Geo. W. Cobb, E. C. Turner and Gideon Perkins Jr., of Plymouth, were appointed to appraise the estate of Ellis Barnes, late of Plymouth, on 2 Dec. 1861. His real estate was valued at $9615, and his personal estate totaled $11,136.25. Ellis Barnes and John C. Barnes, the executors, gave their oath to the inventory on 18 Jan. 1862.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 103, p. 408-411, from FHL microfilm #0555646, Vol. 114, p. 30, from FHL microfilm #0554699, and Vol. 109, p. 7, from FHL microfilm #0554696.

 

 

Will of Jonathan Barnes of Plymouth, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1714) *

In The Name of God Amen. I Jonathan Barns of Plimouth in the County of Plimouth In New England Being Weak of Body, but of Sound & Disposeing mind, Do make & Constitute my Last Will & Testament in manner & form following.

First & princapally I Resigne my Soul into the mercifull hands of almighty God hopeing through the merritts of my Blessed Savior for the pardon of my Sins & the Salvation of my Soul & my Body I Comit to the Earth to be decently Buried in hopes of a Blessed Resurection and as for the Worldly Estate which god hath graciously Given me (my funerall Expences & Just Debts being first paid & Discharges) I Dispose of as followeth

Imps. I Give and Bequeath to my Loveing Wife Elizabeth Barns to Enjoy & Improve for her Support & maintenance dureing her natural Life all my Lands meadows Houseing Houshold Stuff & moveables whatsoever and wheresoever Except that which I hereafter in this my Last Will & Testamt. Bequeath to my Childrean to be bestowed upon them at my Decease which is as follows.

Imps. I Give & Bequeath to my Son John Barns my Silver Beaker at my Decease. Itm. I Give & Bequeath to my Sons William Barnes & Jonathan Barnes at my Decease forty Shillings a peice in plate or money. Itm. I Give or Bequeath to my Daugter Mary Carver at my Decease forty Shillings in money & my Great Bible.

Itm. I Give & Bequeath at my Decease to my Daughters Lidia Elisabeth Sarah & Esther fourty Shillings a peice in money or Plate

Itm. I Give & Bequeath to the three Childrean of my Daughtger Hannah Decd. viz Mercy, Samuel, and Ebenezer Rider forty Shillings to be Divided Equally amongst them at my Decease. Itm. I give & Bequeath after my wife’s Decease my whole remaining Estate amongst my Eight Children, viz John, William, Jonathan, Mary, Lidia, Elisabeth, Sarah & Esther & their heirs & Assignes; That is to Say my Will is that my Estate be divided According to Law my Eldest Son to have a Double portion & the Rest of my Childrean Single portions of my Estate only my Will is that my Sons Shall have & hold all my Lands meadows & houseing In Plimouth Plimton Duxborough Pembrooke or Elsewhere to them their Heirs & Assignes for Ever, Provided they pay to their Sisters So much as will make Each of them full Single portions in Case my moveable Estate doth not amount to it upon a Just apprizement & furthermore my Will is that my Eldest Son pay a Double part and my other Sons a Single part in Case as aforesd.

Itm. My Will is that my Dear & Loveing Wife be the Sole Executrix of this my Last Will & Testament, and I Hereby Appoint & Constitute her Such and do hereby disanull Revoke & make void all my former Wills whatsoever. And In Testimony of all I have hereunto Set my hand & Seal this Twenty seventh Day of June Anno Dom One Thousand Seven hundread & fourteen

Signed Sealed & Delivered                                                                                                                       The        marke of

In Presence of us ~                                                                                                              Jonathan  S   Barns                             (seal)

Francis Adams                                                                     Part of the 7th Line upon this page Rased

Haviland Torrey                                                                  Before Signing & Sealing ~ ~ ~

Josiah Cotton

 

Probated on 24 Dec. 1714, and proved by Frances Adams, Haviland Torrey, and Josiah Cotton, the witnesses.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Jonathan Barens, late of Plymouth, was dated 1 June 1716, and totaled £287.15.0, plus some debts due to the estate, not including his real estate which was described but not valued, and it was not signed by the appraisers. Elizabeth Barens, the relict widow of Jonathan Barnes, late of Plymouth, gave her oath to the inventory on 20 June 1716.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 3, pp. 325-327, 415-416, from FHL microfilm #0550509.

 

 

Will of Jonathan Barnes of Plymouth, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1748) *

In the Name of God Amen, I Jonathan Barnes of Plymo. In the County of Plymouth In New England, yeoman Being by Gods Providence Cast on a bead of Sickness and under apprehenshon of an approaching Change By Death, But through the Goodness of God I am of Sound Disposeing Mind & Memory, Blessed Be His Name and Being Desireous of Settling & Disposeing of my Temperall Goods & Estate, Which God Hath Been Pleased To Give me, I do make & Constitute This my Last Will & Testament First & Principally, I Give my Soul, Into the Marcifull Hands of a Gracious God, Hopeing through the meritts of my Dear Redeamer To obtain the Pardain of my Sins The Justification of my Person the Salvation of my Soul, and my Body, I Commit To the Earth To Be Decently Buried In Hops of a Resurection To Eternal Life ~

Imprs I Give To my Eldest Son Jonathan Barnes, all that my Dwelling House & Land Whereon I Now Dwell In Plymo. With all my Buildings thereon Excepting one Quarter of the Well, Reserveing the Use & Improvement of said House & Lands To & for the use of my Dear & Loveing Wife, Dureing Her Widdowhood, or Till the Time of Her Second marriage, He my Said Son Paying To His Two other Brothers, Twenty five Pounds, Bills of the New Tenr. as soon as He Shall Come Into the Possession of sd House & Lands, Which is to Be at His Mothers Death or Second marriage, (Viz) Twelve Pounds, Ten Shillings, To my Son Nathaniel Barnes, & the Like Sum of Twelve Pounds Ten Shillings To my Son Zacheus Barnes, I also Give My said Son, Jonathan My Least Gun.

Item I Give & Bequeeth To my Son Nathaniel Barnes my House Lott to the Northward of Stephen Churchell Junr. His House & is Joyning to sd Churchels House Lott. Also one Quarter of my Well, by my Dwelling House, also the One Half of my upland & meadow (Viz) one Half for Quantity and Quallaty Lying In Plymo. at a Place Called Jourden’s, also one Half of my Pew In the meeting House, also Seventy five Pounds Bills of the New Tenr. out of my Personall Estate, always Reserveing the Use, Improvement or Interest of Said Lands & Meadow & Pew In the meeting House To & for the Use of My Loveing Wife Dureing Her Widdowhood or till the Time of Her Second Marriage and my Will is that my Said Son Nathaniel, Have no Power To Demand of my Executrix to Be Hereafter named, the Money Given Him By this Will, while she Remains My Widdow, Nor Interest for the same

Item I Give To my Son Zacheus Barnes all that my Lott of Land, Where my Tan Fatts Stood Which I Bought of my uncel, Jonathan Barnes, Deceased, also the Remaining Half of my upland & meadow Lying in Plymo. att a Place Called Jourdens, also Half a Share In South Meadow Ceder Swamp, & is the Lott Which fell to me In the Division of my fathers Estate also my Lott of Wood Land in Plymo. at a Place Called Small Gains, also the one Half of my Pew In the Meeting House, also Seventy five Pounds Bills of the New Tenr. out of my Personall Estate always Reserveing the Use Improvement or Income of Said Lands Meadows Ceder Swamps & Pew In the meeting house to & for the use of my Loveing Wife, So Long as She Continues my Widdow, & my Will is that My Said Son Zacheus Have No Power To Demand of my Executrix Hereafter Named the money Given Him, By this Will, nor any Interest for the Same, while she Continues my Widdow

Item I Give & Bequeeth To my Daughter Margret Barnes, one Hundred & Twenty five Pounds Bills of the New Tenr. Fifty Pounds, of sd Sum To Be Paid To my Said Daughter at the Time of Her Marriage & further My Will is that my Said Daughter Margret, Have No Power to Demand of my Executrix, Hereafter Named, the Remaining Seventy Five Pounds, Nor any Interest for the same So Long as my sd Executrix Remains my Widdo— & Further it is my Will & Pleasure, that if my Wife Should Not Sell & Dispose of my Lands Lying In Plymo. In Monument Ponds Precinct Which I Have Hereafter By this Will, Given her full Power & Authority To Do Then my Will is that it be Equally Divided Between my Two Sons, Nath. & Zacheus & My Daughter Margret Barnes.—

Item—I Give & Bequeeth To my Dear & Loveing Wife, Phebe Barnes all the Rest of my Estate, Whatsoever & Wheresoever—Lying, or Being, With full Power To Sell & Dispose if She thinks Best, all that My Two Lotts of Land, Lying and Being In Plymo. in Monument Ponds Precinct, the Money ariseing by Sale of Said Lands To Improve for Her own Support or the Support of Her Children as she Sees Cause, & Further my Will is that my Said Wife Herafter Made Executor To this my Last Will and, Testament, Have full Power To Take Down—Remove, or Dispose of any of the Barnes, or out Houses on any of my Lotts of Land, or To Sett up the Same in other Places, as She thinks Best, & further My Will is the Several Sums of money Given out of my Estate To my Two Sons, Nathaniel & Zacheus Barnes & to my Daughter Margret To Be Paid them, as is Before ordered in this Will Without any Interest, for the Same that is to Say it is my True Intent & meaning, that my said Wife Shall Not Be Held To Pay To Either of my Said Children any Interest in said Sums So Long as She Continues my Widdw, And further my Will is that I have Here Given To My Wife, is & shall be in full for my sd Wifes Right of Dower & Power of thirds in my Estate, & further My Will is that all my Just Debts & Funeral Charges, be Paid By my Wife out of the Personall, Estate Left In Her Hands No Divition To be made out of any of the Legacies Given My Children ~~~

And I Do Hereby Constitute & Appoint my Dear & Loveing Wife Phebe Barnes Sole Executrix of this my Last Will and Testament Hereby Revoking & Disanulling all or any Former Will or Wills by me Made

In Witness Whereof I Have Hereunto Sett my Hand &

Seal this 13th Day of September 1748

Signd Sealled & Declared

By Him to Be His Last

Will & Testament, In Presents of                                                                                     Jonathan Barns (seal)

John Holmes

Elizabeth Curtis

Thomas Foster

 

Presented for probate on Novr. 9th 1748 by the Executer therein named, and proved by John Holmes & Elizabeth Curtis. No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 11, p. 187-188, from FHL microfilm #0551537.

 

 

Will of Levi Barnes of Plymouth, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1853) *

        In the name of God, Amen. I Levi Barnes of Plymouth in the County of Plymouth and Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Trader, being of sound and disposing mind, though sick and weak in body, and desirous to direct the distribution and disposition of all my real and personal estate, which I may leave at my decease, and in which I may have any interest whatever, whether in possession remainder or reversion, do hereby make publish and declare this instrument to be my last Will and Testament, in the manner following. viz.

1st Having full confidence in my beloved wife, to provide for our three children viz. George, Albert & Edward as in her judgement will seem best, I do not make any further special provision for either of them.

2nd I give devise & bequeath to my beloved wife all my estate both real and personal, after the payment of all my just debts, funeral charges & cost of administration of my estate, to be at her entire disposal during her natural life, and afterward to be equally divided between my children.

        I also appoint Timothy Gordon of Plymouth, Executor of this my last Will and Testament.

        In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand this eleventh day of March, in the year one thousand eight hundred and Fifty Three.

                                                                                                                                                Levi Barnes                                        (seal)

        Signed, sealed, published & declared, by the same Levi Barnes to be his last Will and Testament, in the presence of us, who at his request, in his presence and in presence of each other have hereunto set our hands as Witnesses.

        Timothy Gordon

        Lemuel Simmons

        David F. Goddard

 

Presented for probate on the third Monday of May, 1853, by Timothy Gordon, the Executor therein named, proved by Timothy Gordon and Lemuel Simmons, two of the witnesses, and approved by Aaron Hobard, Judge of Probate.

 

Timothy Gordon was granted Letters Testamentary on the estate of Levi Barnes, late of Plymouth, Trader, on 16 May 1853, with Allen Danforth and Leander Lovell as sureties. Andrew Bartlett, George Harlow and Eleazer S. Bartlett, all of Plymouth, were appointed to appraise the estate of Levi Barnes, late of Plymouth, on 16 May 1853.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Levi Barnes, late of Plymouth, Trader, was appraised by A. Bartlett, Eleazer S. Bartlett and George Harlow, but not dated. His real estate was valued at $2345, including his house, lot and barn on North Street in Plymouth valued at $2075, and his personal estate totaled $2781.22. Timothy Gordon, the executor, gave his oath to the inventory on the second Monday of Aug. 1853.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 95, pp. 246-248, 377-378, from FHL microfilm #0555642, and Vol. 2H, p. 268.

 

 

Will of Phebe Barnes of Plymouth, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1752) *

In the Name of God Amen, I Phebe Barnes of Plimouth in the County of Plimouth in New England Widdow being now on a sick Bed and Expecting My Great Change draws near, but Still Blessed be God for itt, of a sound Disposing mind and Memory, After first Giveing My precious sole to God, Expecting Acceptance with him through the Meritts of my dear Redeemer My body I Commit to the dust to be Decently Buried at the Discretion of My Execr. not Douting but it will be raised again at the Resurrection and hope in a Lickness to Christs Glorious Body, And as to my Worldly Goods, I Give them as follows after my Just Debts & Funerall Charges are paid, Imprimas I Give to My Beloved son Jonathan Barnes my largest Silver cup, also ten sheep to him and his heirs as his full part of My Estate in Consideration of his haveing a Greater part Given him in his decds. Fathers Will then the Children

2ly, I Give to My Beloved Daughter Margrett Barnes all my wearing Apparel of what nature soever, which is to be Deliverd her at my Dece. which with what is here after Given her in this My Last Will and Testament is in full of her part of My Estate

3ly, I Give Unto my Beloved son Nathaniel Barnes twenty shillings to be Imediatly laid Out for a pair of Gold Sleve Buttons for him and further My Will is that he be well supported Out of my Estate till his Guardian can find a suitable place for him to be put out to Apprentice and then to be Cloathed and fitted for his apprintishipe also Out of my Estate with what is hereafter Given to him in this My last Will is in full of his part of My Estate

4ly I Give unto My Beloved son Zacheus Barnes twenty shillings to be Imediatly laid Out for apair of Gold sleeve Buttons for him, and further My Will is that he be well supported Out of My Estate till he be fourteen Years of Age or his Guardian can find a suitable place for him to be put out to apprintice, and then to be Cloathed and fitted for his apprentiship Also out of my Estate which with what is hereafter part of my Estate

  5ly, All the resedue of My Estate both real and personal, after the forement. Debts Legacies Gifts and charges are paid and taken Out of my Estate I Give to My three Children hereafter named to be Equally Divided among then, Vizt. to My said Daughter Margrett to her, her heirs & assigns forever One third part of said Estate to My said Son Nathaniel to him his heirs & Assigns forever one third part of said Estate, And to My son Zacheus, to him his heirs and Assigns forever the remaining third part of My said Estate

Lastly I do Hereby Nominate and Appoint my trusty well Frind Dea. Joseph Bartlett junr, sole Execr. of this My last Will and Testamt. hereby revokeing and Disanuling all Other and Former wills, and do make & Ordain this to be my Last Will and Testamt. dated at Plimouth the 4th. of October 1752,

Signed sealed published & declared

to be her last Will and testamt in                                                                                      Phebe Barnes                    (seal)

Presents of us

Saml Harlow

Lemuel Barnes

Thomas Foster

 

Presented for probate on 15 Aug. 1753 by the Executor therein named, who renounced the Executorship, and proved by Thomas Foster, Saml. Harlow and Leml. Barnes. Zacheus Bartlett, labourer, was appointed as Administrator Cum testamento annexo on the Estate of Phebe Barnes, late of Plimouth, Wido, on 15 Aug. 1753, with Thomas Foster Esqr. and Joseph Bartlett junr, yeoman, all of Plimouth, as sureties.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 13, p. 144-145, from FHL microfilm #0551540.

 

 

Will of William Barnes of Plymouth, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1749) *

In the name of The Ever Living God Amen I William Barns of Plimouth in ye County of Plimouth and Province of The massachusets Bay in new England being Sensible of My Frailty and mortallity and not Knowing how soon it Shall Please God to put a period to my Temporal Life do apprehend it My Duty to Set my house in order Before I Die and Tho I am under bodily Weakness and Decays of nature Yet Blessed be ye Lord Jehovah My God and Saviour I am Sound Disposeing mind and memory and Therefore do ordain This my Last Will and Testement—

In the First place I Commend my Immortall Spiritt into the hands of God ye Father humbly relying on the alone merits and Passion of the Lord Jesus my Dear Saviour and Trusting Intirely in The Promises of ye Gospal Through him for ye Pardon of all my Sins and Eternal Salvation and My body I Commit to the Earth to be Decently Buried by the Executors of this my Last Will in Good hope of a Good Resurrection at ye Last Day to Immortall Life & bliss Through Jesus Christ and as to Such worldly Goods and Estate as it hath Pleased God to bestow upon me my will Regrating ye Disposal there of is as follows—viz—

1ly my will is that all my Just Debts funeral Charges and Just Expenses be in ye first place paid & discharged out of my Personal Estate~~~~

2ly—I Give and Bequeath to my Loveing wife Else Barnes the use & Improvement of all my Estate both Real and Personal so long as She Shall Continue my Widdow, and in Case She marry again I Give her one Third part of my Personal Estate with full power to make Such dispositions thereof as She Shall see Cause —

Item I Give & Devise to my Daughter marcy Hedge To her & her heirs and assigns forever all the right and Title To any Lands that I have at Hebron in ye Collony of Coneticut in Partnership with Capt. Hinckley and ye heirs of Isaac Lothrop Esqr. deceased & the heirs of my Brother John Barnes Deceased, I Like wise give her all my Land at a place Called Centrey Hill also about twenty acres of wood Land at Sparrows hill in Plimouth aforesaid The Improvement thereof to her mother as before Exsepted—

I also Give To my Said Daughter one Hundred Pounds in Bills of Credit of The old Tenour To be paid Equally By My sons Lemuel & Benjamin when my Said Estate Shall Come into their Hands at ye rate or Value as money now passeth. I also Give her one Third part of my Personal Estate to be Paid at the Decease of her mother—Item I Give and Devise to my two Sons Lemuel Barnes & Benjamin Barnes their heirs and assigns forever all my Houseing and Lands meadows & Cedar Swamps not heretofore disposed of: the improvement Thereof to their mother as before Excepted whether Lying in Plimouth Duxborough or wheresoever Else ye Same may be found only it is my mind & Will that my son Lemuel Should have ye house & buildings he now Possesseth and is Seise thereof my Son Benjamin Barnes Shall have and Enjoy the House I now Live in with ye Buldings therto belonging and Then it is my will That an Equal Division of all my Said Real Estate be made between them I also Give unto my said two Sons all my Personal Estate That is not heretofore Disposed of to be received by them at the Decease or mariage of their mother which Shall first happen and order Them to pay their Sister mercy Hedge ye Legacy herein Given her and I do by these Presents revoke and make void all former Wills by me made and Do allow & Confirm this and no other To be my Last will and Testament and I Do ordain & Constitute my two Sons Lemuel Barnes & Benjamin Barnes Joynt Executors of This my Last Will and Testement Charging them faithfully to Execute Every article of The Same according to the true Intent and meaning thereof In Witness Whereof I have hereunto Set my hand and affixd my Seal this twenty Third Day of January in ye Twenty Third year of our Reign one Thousand Seven hundred & forty nine—

Signed Sealed Published Pronounced and

Declared by the Said William Barnes as his Last

Will and Testement In The Presence of us

John Watson                                                                                                                                        his

Ephraim Cobb                                                                                                                      William  W  Barnes

Edward Winslow                                                                                                                            marke

 

Presented for probate on 6 May 1751 by Benjamin Barnes, the other Executor, Lemuel, being dead, and proved by Ephraim Cobb and Edward Winsloe Esqr., letters of administration granted to Benjamin Barnes of Plimouth, yeoman, the only Surviving Executor.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth Co. Probate Vol. 12, p. 197-199, from FHL microfilm #0551539.

 

 

Abstract of the Will of James Barney, of Halifax, Vermont (1805) *

Will of James Barney, of Halifax, Windham Co., VT, dated 8 Mar. 1805, “weak in body but of sound mind…”

To beloved wife Thank Barney $100

To son James Barney $233.34 to be taken out of what he owes me

To son William Barney 55 cents with what he has already received to be his full share

To daughter Rebecca Orvis, wife of Josephus Orvis, $70

To daughter Rachel Barney, wife of Royal Barney, $70

To daughter Delilah Barney $70

To son Joseph Barney $233.34, half to be paid when he arrives at the age of 21, and the other half a year later

To son Benjamin Barney $233.34, half to be paid when he arrives at the age of 21, and the other half a year later

To son Daniel Barney $233.34, half to be paid when he arrives at the age of 21, and the other half a year later

To daughter Zelinda Barney $70, half to be paid when she arrives at the age of 18, and the other half a year later

To son Zelotes Barney $233.34, half to be paid when he arrives at the age of 21, and the other half a year later

To son Martin Barney all the rest, residue and remainder of my estate, both real and personal, he to pay all my debts, and provide for my wife Thankful Barney, and to take care of my daughter Rebecca’s son Sanford, and take care of all my children before mentioned that are under age.

Son Martin Barney to be sole executor.

                                                                                                                                                James Barney

Witnesses:

Osborn Marsh

John Martin

Darius Bullock

Probated on 28 May 1805, and proved by Osborn Marsh and Darius Bullock in Vermont.

 

Bond of Martin Barney, executor of the estate of James Barney, with Aaron Barney, William Marsh Jr., and Osborn Marsh as sureties.

 

* Abstracted by John A. Maltby from Marlboro District, Vermont, Probate Records, Vol. 3, pp. 63-66, 77, from FHL microfilm #0029139.

 

 

Will of John Barney Jr., of Guilford, Vermont (1792) *

In the name of God Amen – I John Barney jur. of the town of Guilford in the County of Windham and State of Vermont yeoman—Solemnly Considering my frequent Bodily infirmitys and the Great frallty of Human life and Being of Sound and Perfect mind and Memory / Blessed be God / do this twentyninth Day of May in the year of our Lord one Thousand sevin hundred and Ninty two make and Publish this my last Will and testament in manner following to Wit principly I commend my Soul into the Hands of God who is the father of Spirits in full faith of the Blessed and Glorious Gospel of my Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ for whose sake Alone I hope for Eternal Life and I Order that my Body be Decently Buried by my Executors herin after named fully Beleving the Doctring of the Resurrection of the Body at the Second and Glorious Appearing of the Son of God and the worldly Estate wherewith it has Pleased God to bless me I dispose of as follows that is to say I Give to my Beloved Wife Ruth one third part of all my Personall Estate of all sorts After my Funeral Expences are paid and all my Just Debts Also I Give to my said Wife one third part of my Reaiel Estate During her Nattrl Life and Likewise I give to my said Wife the Improvement of the whole of my Reaiel Estate During her Widowhood Also I give and Bequeath to my Sons John & Ryal & William together with my Daughters Namely Ruth & Lucinda and Chlotldia and Sarah & Anna Each of them Equillily Alike at the Desiresion of my Administrators here After named after my Son John hath Receved the whole of the Legacy which falls to me by my Hond. Father John Barney which I give to my said Son in Compensation of a Legacy which fell to me by his Mother Sarah Deceased and Lastly I do hereby name make & Ordain Capt. Edward Barney and Capt. Samuel Shepardson to be Joint Executors to this my Last Will and Testament In Witness I have hereunto set my hand and Seal the Day and year Above Written                     John Barney Jur.                              (Seal)

Signed Sealed Published

and Delivered by the said

John Barney Junr. the

testator as and for his last

Will and Testament in presents

of us who ware Present at the

Signing and Sealing thereof

and Attested the same in his

the testator Presence as Witnesses

thereof

William Bigelow

Hezekiah Horton

Thomas Wickes

 

Proved on the third Tuesday of May 1793 by Hezekiah Horton and Thomas Wickes.

 

The inventory of the Estate of John Barney, late of Guilford, deceased, was appraised by Benjamin Buckling, William Hines, and Derias Bullock on 29 May 1793, and totaled £451.5.5, including the farm and buildings at £300.

 

Feb. 7, 1795. Upon application of the Executors of the Last Will and Testament of John Barney late of Guilford, decd, the further term of three months is allowed the Commissioners to Examine the Claims of the Estate of sd John Barney, decd.

 

April 18, 1797. Upon application of Samuel Shepardson Executor to John Barney Jur. decd, Daniel Bullock Esqr, Benjamin Bucklin and Wm Hinds were appointed a committee to divide the Estate of said decd among his heirs.

 

* Transcribed and abstracted by John A. Maltby from Marlboro District, Vermont, Probates Vol. 1, pp. 314-315, 318-319, and Vol. 2, pp. 30, 101.

 

 

Will of Robert Barrow of Plymouth, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1707) *

December 1: 1707 The Last Will & Testament of Robert Barrow

first I Do Resigne my soul to God that Gave it me: 2ly I Do Give unto my wife Lidia Barrow my Dwelling house & Land appertaining thereto & two Cows Eighteen sheep Together with my houshold goods also my gun and sword and a mare: And If it Please the Lord in the way of his Providence to order it so that my wife change her Condition by Marriage or by Death before she has spent these things  then my Will is that they should Return to her Children  Item I give to my son Robert & Thomas four score acres of Land Lying at a place called the first swamp near the fourth meadow & also one Lott or share of Ceder swamp in the fourth Meadow Ceder swamp

Item I Give unto my son Robert & Thomas six acres of Meadow Lying at the new Meadows: This being my will & Desire I Do set my hand & seal in presents of these witnesses

Eliezer Dunham                                                                                                     of

James Barnibee                                                                                     the mark   T   Robert          (seal)

Richard Cooper                                                                                                             Barrow

                                                                                                a Codicille

Whereas in my will above writen I have made no mention of sundry of my Children these may surtifie the Reason (viz) because my children by my first wife have already had their portions and as to my son Elisha and my Daughters by my Late wife I have given a Considerable part of my Estate to my sd wife to be by her Dispesed to them as she shall so cause any thing above to the conterary not with-standing I Doo also appoint my sd wife Lydia barrow Executrix of this my Last Will & Testament                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                 mark

Witness                                                                                                      the       T     of

Eliezer Dunham                                                                                      Robert      Barrow                           (seal)

James Barnibee

Richard Cooper  

 

Proved by Eliezer Dunham, James Barnibe & Richard Cooper on 19 Dec. 1707, and letter of administration given to the widow Lydia Barrow. No inventory was recorded for his estate.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 3, p. 23.

 

 

Will of Andrew Barrows of Carver, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1809) *

In the Name of God amen I Andrew Barrows of Carver in the County of Plymouth Housewright being weak in Body but of sound Mind & Memory, blessed by Almighty God for the same, do make & publish this my last will & Testament in Manner & form following that is to say ~

                First I will & bequeath unto my beloved Wife Sarah Barrows the Improvement of one third of my Real Estate & the use of one third of my live stock & the use of the whole of my indoor moveables, during her natural Life. & if she shall be in want my three sons to whom I shall bequeath my Real Estate, shall support her out of the Estate that I shall give them.

                Item I give & bequeath to my three sons Lothrop, George & John, in equal Shares all my Real Estate of what name or nature soever to be divided equally among the said Lothrop Barrows, George Barrows & John Barrows my aforesaid three Sons, by their paying all my just debts & charges of settling my Estate, & what I shall hereafter order them to pay to my other Children and what I have given to my said Wife Sarah Barrows & also I give to my said three sons Lothrop, George & John all my live stock (as under the Incumbrance above mentioned to my wife Sarah) & also all my farming Implements & all my Carpenter Tools to them their Heirs & assigns forever—

                Item I will & bequeath unto my beloved Son Joshua Barrows the Sum of twenty five Dollars to be paid by the abovesaid Lothrop, George & John in one Year after the abovesaid John shall be of Age to act for himself—

                Item I will & bequeath to my beloved Son Andrew Barrows the Sum of twenty Dollars to be paid him by the abovesaid Lothrop, George & John in one Year after the said John shall be of age to act for himself—

                Item I will & bequeath to my beloved Son Ezra Barrows the sum of Twenty Dollars to be paid him by the said Lothrop, George & John in one Year after the said John shall be of age to act for himself—

                Item I will & bequeath unto my beloved Son Charles Barrows one Dollar to be paid by the abovesaid Lothrop, George & John in one Year after the said Charles is of age to act for himself & also if the said Charles shall serve his Time out with Thomas Cobb then he the said Charles shall have the forty Dollars that the said Thomas Cobb was to pay me—

                Item I will & bequeath to the Heirs of my beloved Son James Barrows deceased one Dollar to be paid them by the abovesaid Lothrop, George & John in one Year after the said John shall be of age to act for himself—

                Item I will & bequeath to my three Daughters viz Mary Sherman, Hannah Cobb & Elizabeth Tilson one Dollar each to be paid them by the aforesaid Lothrop Barrows George Barrows & John Barrows, to be paid in one year after the said John shall be of Age to act for himself—

                Item I will & bequeath unto my six sons viz Joshua, Andrew, Ezra, Lothrop, George Charles & John in equal shares all my wearing apparel & Arms to be equally divided among them—

                Item I will & bequeath to my three said Sons, Lothrop, George & John Barrows, what Money I have on hand & all debts that are due to me—

                Lastly I do hereby appoint & constitute Neheh. Cobb Esqr. of Carver sole Executor of this my last Will & Testament hereby revoking all former Wills by me made

                In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand & seal the sixth day of February in the Year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred & nine—

signed sealed published & declared by the

above named Andrew Barrows to be his                                                                                         his

last will and Testament in presence of us who                                                               Andrew  X  Barrows                           (seal)

have hereunto set our Names as Witnesses                                                                                  Mark

in presence of the Testator

                Joseph Vaughan

                Samuel Shaw

                Neheh. Cobb

 

Presented for probate on 8 Apr. 1809 by Neheh. Cobb Esqr., the Executor therein named, and proved by Joseph Vaughan and Samuel Shaw, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed.

Joseph Vaughan, Thomas Hammond and Samuel Shaw, all of Carver, Yeomen, were appointed to appraise the Estate of Andrew Barrows, late of Carver, yeoman, on 8 Apr. 1809. The Inventory of the Estate of Andrew Barrows, late of Carver, was dated 24 Apr. 1809, and totaled $1749.48, including his real estate valued at $1295. Nehemiah Cobb Esqr., the Executor to the will of Andrew Barrows, deceased, gave his oath to the inventory on 2 May 1809.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 42, p. 477-478, from FHL microfilm #0550902.

 

 

Will of Dr. Isaac Barrows of Plymouth, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1806) *

In the Name of God Amen – I Isaac Barrows of Plymouth in the County of Plymouth Physician, being of sound & disposing Mind & Memory, Thanks be to God, but calling to Mind the uncertainty of Life do make & ordain this my last Will and Testament –     First I recommend my Soul to God & my Body to the Earth to be buried in a decent christian Manner & as to my Estate with which it has pleased God to bless me, that after my just debts & funeral Chares are paid; I give and bequeath the whole of my said Estate both Real and personal of every description Name or nature to my dear & beloved Wife Rebecca Barrows, & I do constitute & appoint my said Wife Rebecca Barrows & Isaac Bartlett of said Plymouth the Executors of this my last Will & Testament

                                                                                                                                                Isaac Barrows                                  (seal)

In Witness Whereof I have subscribed the same with my hand & sealed the same with my Seal this twenty ninth day of December in the Year of our Lord eighteen hundred & six

signed, sealed, published & declared as his

last Will & Testament in presence of us

        Hannah Washburn

        Alden Lucas

        Isaac Bartlett

 

Presented for probate on 22 July 1807 by Rebecca Barrows and Isaac Bartlett, the Executors therein named, and proved by Hannah Washburn and Isaac Bartlett, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Rebecca Barrows and Isaac Bartlett, the before named Executors.

 

John D. Dunbar Esqr., Calvin Crombie, and John Bartlett the 3d yeoman, all of Plymouth, were appointed to appraise the Estate of Isaac Barrows late of Plymouth Physician, on 22 July 1807. The inventory was dated 23 July 1807, and totaled $791.82, including his lot of land valued at $426, and his house appraised at $60. Rebecca Barrows, the Executrix, gave her oath to the inventory on 12 Oct. 1807.

 

Benjm. Drew junr. and Barnabas Otis, both of Plymouth, yeomen, were appointed to examine the debts of the Estate of Isaac Barrows junr. late of Plymouth, Physician, deceased, which has been represented as insolvent, on 13 Aug. 1807. The debts totaled $1278.10.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 42, pp. 131, 204-206, from FHL microfilm #0550902.

 

 

Will of Nathaniel Barrows of Middleborough, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1803) *

In the Name of God Amen.—I, Nathaniel Barrows of Middleborough in the county of Plymouth & Comwealth of Massachusetts, yeoman, being weak of body, yet of a sound mind & memory, blessed be God for the same; considering ye mortality of the body, that it is appointed for all men once to die, do make & ordain this my last will & testament, as follows vizt.

First—I Give & bequeath to my son Abishai Barrows one Dollar in addition to what he has had.

2d—I Give & bequeath to my sons Nathaniel & Josiah Barrows, to each of them in addition to what they have before had twenty five cents.

3d—I Give & bequeath to my son Asa Barrows, in addition to what he has before had, Twenty Dollars.

4th—I Give & bequeath to my son Freeman Barrows in addition to what he has already Recieved one Dollar, together with what honest demands he has or may have on me ~

5th—I Give & bequeath to my daughter Lois, the wife of David Jacobs Thirty Dollars in good houshold furniture, at a reasonable price. And also, a reasonable allowance for what expence I put her & my said son in law Jacobs to, in this my present sickness –

6.th—I Give & bequeath to my daughter Abigail, the wife of Otice Alden Thirty Dollars in good houshold furniture at a reasonable price with them.

7.th—I Give & bequeath to my son Nelson Barrows, all my real estate of all kinds, wherever it may be situated & including my Pew & half of a Pew in the meeting house where elder Samuel Nelson now preaches, to have & to hold the same & every part & parcell thereof, to him, my said son Nelson, his heirs & assigns forever. I further give & bequeath to him my sd son Nelson, all my personal estate of every kind, including my dues & demands, he paying all my just debts & funeral charges, and the legacies herein before given to my other children.–

I Give and bequeath to my son Stilman Barrows, one Dollar, and also, an additional sum to that amount, as shall or may be judged by reasonable & indifferent men, be ought in equity to have out of my estate, at the time that he shall arrive to the age of twenty one years, unless he shall by sickness or otherways be reduced to circumstances to really need part or the whole before that time then, in that case to recieve the same, at such time, the amount of which shall be paid in Real Estate in said Middleborough or Rochester, or in some good merchantable personal estate at a reasonable price, all of which shall & is to be paid out of that part of my estate, which is herein before given to my said son Nelson—And my will is, and I do hereby constitute & appoint, my son in law David Jacobs to be Executor to this my last will & testament—thus hoping, that, this my last will & testament will be carefully kept & performed.—I commit my soul to God who gave it, and my body to the dust, to a decent burial.—In Testimony whereof, I hereto set my hand & seal this twenty eighth day of September in the year of our Lord, one thousand, eight hundred & three.~

Signed, Sealed & Declared by

the said Nathaniel Barrows                                                                                                                Nathaniel Barrows                          (seal)

to be his last will & testament

in presence of us– ~

                Nehemiah Bennet

                Abishai T. Clark

                Levi Tinkham

 

Presented for probate on 14 Dec. 1803 by David Jacobs, the Executor therein named, and proved by Nemiah Bennet Esqr. & Abishai T. Clark, two of the witnesses.

 

Nemiah Bennet Esqr., Elisha Clarke, Gentm., both of Middlebo., & Hopestill Bisbey of Rochester, yeoman, was appointed to appraise the estate of Nathl. Barrows, late of Middlebo., yeoman, on 14 Dec. 1803. The Inventory, dated 10 Jan. 1804, totaled $2110.85, his real estate totaled $1669.00, including his homestead lands & buildings valued at $1200. David Jacobs, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 1 Feb. 1804.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 38, pp. 496-497, 507-508, from FHL microfilm #0550720.

 

 

Will of Amasa Bartlett of Plymouth, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1831) *

                Be it Remembered that I Amasa Bartlett of Plymouth in the State of Massachusetts – being of sound mind and memory, do make & publish this my Last Will & Testament in manner and form following:

        First— I give and bequeath unto my beloved Wife Sarah T. Bartlett all my Estate, both real & personal, after the payment of my just debts – and the payment of the Legacies hereafter named, which Legacies shall be paid within three months after my decease.

        Second— I give and bequeath to my daughter Hannah B. Spooner five dollars. – I give to my daughter Sarah T. Sampson, five dollars, I give to my son Amasa Bartlett five dollars, I give to my son William S. Bartlett, five dollars, I give to my Grand-daughter Mary Ann Bartlett Sampson, five dollars –

        Third & lastly – I do hereby appoint my beloved wife Sarah T. Bartlett Executrix of this my Last Will & Testament, hereby revoking all former Wills by me made.

                In Witness Whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and seal, this Nineteenth day of July in the year of our Lord Eighteen hundred & thirty one.

                                                                                                                                                Amasa Bartlett                                  (seal)

                Signed, sealed, published & declared by the above named Amasa Bartlett to be his last Will & Testament in the presence of us, who, at his request, & in his presence, have hereunto subscribed our names as Witnesses to the same.

                William M. Jackson

                Isaac Brewster

                Jacob Jackson

 

Presented for probate on 13 Apr. 1835, and proved by William M. Jackson and Jacob Jackson, two of the subscribing witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Sarah T. Bartlett of Plymouth, Widow, on 13 Apr. 1835.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 77, p. 101-103, from FHL microfilm #0555264.

 

 

Will of Amasa Bartlett of South Plymouth, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1881) *

I Amasa Bartlett of South Plymouth, Commonwealth of Massachusetts, being of sound and disposing mind & memory, but mindful of the uncertainty of this life make this my last will and testament, after the payment of all my just debts and funeral charges I give devise and bequeath all estates both Real and Personal of which I shall die seized and possessed to my wife Jerusha Bartlett for her support during her life, after all her just debts and funeral charges are paid the residue both real and personal estates to go to my grandson Amasa T. Blackmer his heirs and assigns forever.

I nominate my said wife to be the Executrix of this my will, and direct that she shall be exempt from giving any surety or sureties on her bond as such executrix.

In testimony whereof I hereunto set my hand and seal and in the presence of three witnesses declare this to be my last will on this eleventh day of Jany.  A.D. 1881.

                                                                                                                                                Amas Bartlett

On this eleventh day of Jany. 1881 Amasa Bartlett of South Plymouth, Massachusetts signed the foregoing instrument in our presence declaring it to be his last will, and as witnesses thereof we three do now at his request in his presence and in the presence of each other hereto subscribe our names,

                                                                                                                                N. C. Bartlett

                                                                                                                                Harriet M. Bartlett

                                                                                                                                Anne C. Bartlett

 

Jerusha Bartlett, of Plymouth, was confirmed as executrix of the last will and testament of Amasa Bartlett, late of Plymouth, on 14 Mar. 1881.

 

Seth S. Bartlett, Clark Bartlett and Freeman Holmes, of Plymouth were appointed to appraise the estate of Amasa Bartlett, late of Plymouth, on 14 Mar. 1881. His real estate was valued at $485, and his personal estate totaled $764.99. Jerusha Bartlett, the executrix, gave her oath to the inventory on 11 Apr. 1881.

 

Nathaniel C. Bartlett, of Plymouth, was appointed as trustee of the estate of Amasa Bartlett, late of Plymouth, for the benefit of his widow Jerusha Bartlett, on 14 Dec. 1885, with Thomas N. Eldridge and Everett F. Sherman, both of Plymouth, as sureties.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 143, p. 551, from FHL microfilm #0556649, Vol. 149, p. 246, from FHL microfilm #0556652, Vol. 145, p. 280, from FHL microfilm #0556650, and Vol. 158, p. 78, from FHL microfilm #0556656.

 

 

Will of Benjamin Bartlett of Duxbury, Colony of New Plymouth (1691) *

I Benjamin Bartlet of Duxborough in the County of Plimouth Being weak of Body but of Sound mind and memory praysed be God do make and ordain this my last Will and Testament in mañer and forme following first I Commit my Soul into the hands of Almighty God And my Body to Decent Burial when it shall please God to take me home And sure and sertain hope of a joyfull Resurrection unto Eternall Glory through the precious merrits of our Lord Jesus Christ. And for the Disposall of my outward Estate which God hath Graciously Given me my mind and Will is that it shall be Bestowed in such manner as in this my Last Will and Testament is sat down: first whereas when I married this my present Wife Sissilla I Promised her to Give her forty pound in case she should Survive me, and she had a Writing thereof before our Marriage which she Did accept of and agree to as her joynture in full sattisfaction of her Dower of and into all my Estate: Now my Will is that the said forty pounds Shall be Duly paid her in convenient time after my Decease And that twenty pounds thereof Shall be paid in money and the other twenty pounds out of my Stock And moveover I Give her the Bed we usually Lye upon with all the furniture thereunto belonging as it now is and one pair of sheets more that is to say two pair in all. and also the vallue of forty Shillings in houshold Goods. And also She Shall have the Chamber over my Bigges room to Dwell in for her own personal use during her widdowhoode and priviledges of putting her cattel into the pasture where my Son shall put his into the same whilst she shall Dwell here. And for the Disposall of my Estate amongst my Children my mind and Will is that my Eldest Son Shall have a double Portion of all my Estate both Real and Personall with what he hath already had of my Estate And all my other children Single & Equall shares thereof. And what my son Samuel hath already had to be Reckoned as part of his portion or share thereof. x x x x x x

Item I Give and Bequeath All the Farme I now live upon with all the appurtenances thereunto belonging unto my Eldest Son Benjamin and the heires of his Body Lawfully Begotten for Ever. Item: I have already Given unto my son Samuel and Do hereby confirm unto him and his heires All the Farme he now Liveth on which was Sometime the Lands of his Father in Law Pabody And also I Give to him and his heires one third part of the meadow I bought of John Soul at Salt house Beach. Item. I Give and bequeath unto my son Ebenezer and his heires for Ever all my Lands Lying at Little Compton alias Sacconett.

Item I Give and Bequeath unto my son Ichabod and his heires for Ever All my Lands in the Township of Middleborough. And I leave all my Lands at Rochester to Descend to my son Benjamin and his heires. Item I Give and Bequeath unto my Daughter Rebecka Bradford All my Lands at North hill where my son Benjamin now Liveth and two thirds of the meadow I bought of John Soul at Salt house Beach to her for Life and at her decease I Give the same Lands and meadows to her two Daughters Allice and Sarah which she had by William Bradford and to their Severall heires for Ever. Item My Will is that all the Lands afore mentioned in this my Will Shall be duly and Equally prised and valued and if what I have Given and Left to my Son Benjamin Shall be more of value than a Double portion of all my Estate after my Debts and what I have Given to my Wife shall be taken out of if then he shall pay the over plus back to my Estate and if it shall be less then it shall be made up to him a double portion out of my moveables. And in Like mañer if what I have hereby mentioned and Given to my other Children shall fall Short of a Single share or portion Shall be made up out of my moveables and if it shall be more of value than a Single share he or they shall pay Back in like mañer And I nominate and appoint my two Sons Benjamin and Samuel Executors of this my Last Will and Testament Injoyning them to take the advice of my overseers in the Execution of this my Will and Requesting my Loving Brother Joseph Bartlett & William Brewster and my Loving friend Capt Nathanael Thomas of Marshfield to be overseers to advise my Executors in the Execution of this my Will In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and Seal the twenty first Day of August 1691   Item my two younger Sons Shall have Each of them a Bed my Wife hath Spun for them over & above their shares.

Signed Sealed and Declared by the abovesaid

to be his Last Will and Testament

In presence of us                                                                                                                  Benjamin  B : Bartlett  his mark

Nathanael Thomas                                                                                                                              and Seal                                 (seal)

John Wadsworth

Hannah Sturtevant

 

This written in ye Margin of ye will

Item I Give and Bequeath unto my Indian Servant Roben and his wife twenty shillings a peece Item I Give and bequeath unto Sarah Covel forty shillings out of my moveables. And that my Wife her Aunt shall receive and Dispose of it for her: Item I Give unto Lidia Andrews the five pounds her father John Andrews oweth me.

These Legacies in the Margin were Added at the same time by his order after he had Sealed and Declared his Will

                                                                                                                                yt N Thomas  Mrs Sturtevant present

 

Capt Nathanael Thomas and John Wadsworth two of the witnesses here named made oath before ye County Court at Plimouth September 15th: 1691 that they were present & saw ye above named Benjamin Bartlet sign Seal & heard him declare the above written to be his last will & Testament & that to ye best of their judgment he was of Sound memory & understanding when he so did.

                                                                                                                Attest: Saml Sprague Cler

 

An Inventory of the Goods Chattels and Credits of Benjamin Bartlet late of Duxborough Deceased taken by us whose names are here to Subscribed ye 28th day of August Ano Domini 1691:

[Totaled £250.10.01, plus some additional untotaled credits and debts due to the estate.]

                                                                                                                                John Soul

                                                                                                                                John Nelson

 

Benjamin Bartlet and Saml Bartlet made oath before ye County Court at Plimouth March 16th 1691/2 that ye above written is a true Inventory of ye Goods chattels and Credits of their Late Father Benjamin Bartlet Deceased so far as they know & yt when more shall be Discovered to them they will make it known

                                                                                                                Attest Saml Sprague Cler

 

An Inventory of the Lands of Benjamin Bartlet Late of Duxborough Deceased taken by us whose names are Subscribed ye 29th day of October 1691

[Totaled £390.0]

                                                                                                                                John Wadsworth

                                                                                                                                William Brewster

                                                                                                                                John Soul

                                                                                                                                John Nelson

 

We whose names are under written Being Requested to prize contained parcels of Lands Lying at Sacconet alias Little Compton Esteemed at:

[Totaled £85.0]

                                                                                                                                Joseph Church

                                                                                                                                William Pabody

Endorsed and Recorded March 21th 1691/2

 

These presents witnesseth that I Sicillia Bartlet Widdow ye Relict of Benjamin Bartlet late of Duxborough Deceased have this first day of September 1691 Received of Benjamin Bartlet Executor of the Last Will and Testament of my sd Husband twenty pounds in money two oxen four cows four sheepe an hive of Bees and fifteen shillings in Swine for and in Consideration of my Due or joynture agreed to be Given me out of the Estate of my said Husband by a Writing made before our marriage which aforesaid money and Stock I have Received for the forty pounds mentioned in the said Writing and Do hereby acknowledge the Receipt there of & thereof and of every part thereof Do Exonerate acquit and Discharge the said Benjamin Bartlet and the other Executor Samuel Bartlet And the Estate of my said husband. Also I do acknowledge to have Received of the said Benjamin the Bed with all the furniture and the two pair of sheets Given me by my Husband in his Last Will and Testament as also the value of forty shillings in Goods Given me by ye said last will And of each said Legacies I do hereby acquit and Discharge the said Executors In witness Whereof I have hereunto set my hand & Seal the aforementioned first day of September 1691

Witness                                                                                                                                  Siciliah Bartlet                 (seal)

John Soul

Wm Thomas

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 1, pp. 113-115, 135.

 

 

Will of Benjamin Bartlett of Duxbury, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1717) *

I Benjamin Bartlett of Duxborô in ye County of Plymouth in ye Province of ye Massachusetts Bay in New: England: being Sensible of my mortality; but of sound mind & memory (Praised be God) do make & ordain this my Last Will & Testament in manner & Forme following: First I Comitt my Soul into ye Hands of almighty God; & my Body to decent Buriall, when it Shall Please God to take mee Home In Sure & certain Hopes of a Joyfull Resurrection & Reunion unto Eternal Glory thrô ye Precious meritts of our Lord Jesus Christ. & for ye disposal of my outward Estate which God hath graciously given me my mind & Will Is that It Shall be Bestowed & disposed of as in this my Last Will & Testament is Sett down. Imprimis I give & Bequeath unto my Loving Wife Ruth: all my Estate in Duxborô & Else where, whether Houses, uplands meadows or moveables (During Her Life) only obliging Her to Pay to my three youngest Daughters, Prescilla, Deborah & Abigail, the value of thirty Pounds a Peice at their marriage in Consideration of So much given to Each of my other Daughters already married  Item; my Will is that after ye decease of my Loving wife Ruth all my up lands meadows & Houses with all my moveable Estate be Equally divided amongst my Daughters; viz Sarah Bradford, Rebeckah Bradford, Ruth Murdoch, Mercy Turner, Priscilla Deborah & Abigail. and also my Grand Daughter Ruth Bartlett ye Daughter of my Son William Decd. by this my last Will & Testament: I Bequeath unto my sd Grand: Daughter of all my abovesd Land, meadows, Houses & moveables an Equall Part: with my other abovesd Daughters; but with this Proviso that She doth not Sue at Law for ye Farm in Duxborô that I now live upon. Item, my Will is that if my Sd Grand:daughter or Her overseers Doe Sue at Law, my Sd Loving wife or Daughters for Sd Farme (that I now live upon She may Have one Shilling & no more, which I do by this my last Will Bequeath unto Her. Item: I do by this my last will & Testament appoint my Loving Wife Ruth Sole Executrix of this my Last Will & Testament. In Witness whereof I have hereunto Sett my Hand & Seal this tenth day of December in ye year of our Lord one thousand Seven Hundred & Seventeen.

Signed Sealed & delivered                                                                                                 Benjamin Bartlett                            (seal)

In Presence of us Witnesses

Peleg Wiswall, John Wadsworth; Ebenezer Wormall

 

Proved by Ebenezer Wormall on 10 Apr. 1724.

Proved by John Wadsworth on 11 Apr. 1724.

Proved by Peleg Wiswall on 11 June 1724.

Letters of administration granted on 6 July 1724 to Ruth Bartlett, relict widdow of the deceased Benjamin Bartlett, late of Duxboro.

 

The inventory of the goods, chattels, credits & Personal Estate of Benjamin Bartlett, late of Duxboro, Cooper, dated 15 Apr. 1724, not totaled, was appraised by James Partridge, Thomas Southworth, and John Wadsworth. Ruth Bartlett, the executrix, gave her oath to the inventory on 25 Apr. 1724.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 4, p. 440-442, from FHL microfilm #0550510.

 

 

Will of Bradford Bartlett of Rochester, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1826) *

                In the name of God Amen. I, Bradford Bartlett of Rochester County of Plymouth, being in the possession of my reason, and sensible of the uncertainty of life, I do make this my last Will and Testament. My soul I give to God and my body to be decently buried, and as it respects my earthly Estate I do dispose of in the following manner:

1st to my beloved wife Lovia I bequeath all my real and personal Estate of every description, except the following legacies, which are to be paid as follows. 1st to Seth Briggs I give one dollar, to Lucy Briggs I give one dol._ to Deborah Delano I give one dollar; to Lydia Leonard I give one dollar, as they are my nigh relations. – and finally I appoint my wife Love, Executrix of this my last Will and Testament.

  In testimony of all which I do hereunto set my hand and seal this nineteenth day of October One thousand eight hundred & twenty-six.

Signed, sealed, and delivered

        In presence of us                                                                                                          Bradford Bartlett                             (seal)

                Joseph Meigs

                Seth C. Bradford

                Martha Chadwick

 

Presented for probate on 2 Oct. 1827 by Love Bartlett, the Executrix therein named, and proved by Joseph Meigs and Seth C. Bradford, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Love Bartlett, the before named Executrix.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 64, p. 290-291, from FHL microfilm #0555258.

 

 

Will of Charles Bartlett of Kingston, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1857) *

                Be it remembered, that I, Charles Bartlett of Kingston, in the County of Plymouth, State of Massachusetts, being of sound and disposing mind, do make, publish and declare this my last Will and Testament, hereby revoking and declaring void all former Wills at any time by me heretofore made, in manner following, viz:

                1st After the payment of all my just debts and funeral expenses and a legacy of twentyfive dollars to each of my nieces Nancy B. Drew, wife of Nathaniel D. Drew, and Lucy F. Bartlett, or other heirs, I give and bequeath all the rest and residue of my estate of every name and nature to my nephews Cornelius A. Bartlett and Walter S. Bartlett, and their heirs and assigns, to be equally divided between them.

                2d I hereby appoint my said nephews Cornelius A. Bartlett and Walter S. Bartlett, Executors of this my last Will.

                In witness whereof, I have hereunto set my hand, this 19th day of March, A.D. 1857.

                                                                                                                                                Charles Bartlett.

                Signed, published and declared by the said Charles Bartlett, as his last Will and Testament, in presence of us, who in his presence, and in the presence of each other have hereunto set our names as Witnesses.

                                                                                                                                                Joseph Stetson

                                                                                                                                                Thomas Bicknell

                                                                                                                                                Albert Stetson

 

Presented for probate on the first Monday of December, 1857 by Cornelius A. & Walter S. Bartlett, the Executors therein named, and proved by Joseph Stetson and Thomas Bicknell, two of the witnesses whose names are subscribed thereto.

 

Cornelius A. Bartlett and Walter S. Bartlett, of Kingston, were confirmed as executors of the estate of Charles Bartlett, late of Kingston, on 7 Dec. 1857, with Joseph Stetson and Thomas Bicknell, of Kingston, as sureties.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 99, p. 540, from FHL microfilm #0555644, and Vol. 2I, p. 95, from FHL microfilm #0550507.

 

 

Will of Cyntha Bartlett of Plymouth, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1843) *

                Be it remembered that I Cyntha Bartlett of Plymouth in the County of Plymouth do on this fourth day of August in the year of Our Lord One Thousand Eight Hundred and forty three make and publish this my last will and testament in manner following viz.

        In the first place I give to Hannah Bartlett her life time a Bureau now deposited in the said Hannah Bartlett’s house and after her decease to become the Property of my Sister Joan Perkins  Also my bed Linen to be divided equally amongst my three Sisters of which they are the following Joan Perkins, Polly Washburn Lucy Blackington.

   The remainder of my Property being in money and now deposited in the Savings Fund Institution of Plymouth to be equally divided amongst my three Sisters above mentioned after my debts are all justly paid from the aforesaid Money.  Cyntha Bartlett this her X mark in presence of the witnesses to this will.

In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and Seal the day and year above written.

   Signed, Sealed and published by the said Cyntha Bartlett declaring this to be her last will and testament in presence of us who at her request were called as witnesses to the same and in her presence did hereto subscribe our names

                Hamblin Tillson

                Olive Harlow

                Albert Leach

 

Presented for probate on the third Monday of Jan. 1844 by Hannah Bartlett, therein named, and proved by Hamblin Tillson and Albert Leach, two of the witnesses whose names as subscribed thereto.

 

Thomas Paty, of Plymouth, was appointed as administrator with the last Will and Testament annexed of the estate of Cynthia Bartlett, late of Plymouth, widow, on 15 Jan. 1844, with John B. Thomas and Isaac L. Hedge, both of Plymouth, as sureties, no person being named as Executor in the said Will.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 86, p. 13-14, from FHL microfilm #0555637, and Vol. 10A, p. 533.

 

 

Will of Elnathan Bartlett of Mannomet Ponds, Plymouth, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1736) *

In the Name of God Amen, the thirtyeth day of August in the year of our Lord Christ One thousand Seven hundred thirty & Six I Elnathan Bartlett of Mannmt. pans in the County of Plymouth and province of Massachusetts Bay in New England Cooper being Very Sick and Weak of body but of perfect mind and memory thanks be given unto God, therefore Calling to mind the Mortality Of my body and knowing that it is appointed for all men Once to die doe make and Ordain this my Last will and Testament that is to Say, principally, and first of all, I give and Recommend my Soul into the Hands of god that gave it and for my body I Recommend to ye Earth to be buried in a Christian & Decent Like manner at ye Discretion of my Executor Nothing doubting but at ye generall Resurrection I Shall Receive the Same again by the Mighty power of God, and as Touching my worldly Estate wherewith it hath pleased God to bless me in this life, I give Devise and Dispose of ye Same in the Following manner and form—

Imprimis. It is my Will, and I do Order that in the first place all my Just Debts and funerall Charges be paid & Satisfied

Item, I Give and Bequeath to My Brother George Nicholas all My right Interest & Title to him and his Heirs and assigns forever all my house and Homestead at ye Manemet Panns Containing Sixty Acres more or Less.—

Item, I give and bequeath To my Sister Sarah Nicholas a lott of Land Joyning to Long pans Containing Eighty Acres More of Less And Likewise I Give and bequeath to my aforesd. Sister Sarah Nicholas another lott of land known by the Name of Island pann all to belong to her her Heirs & assigns forever.—

Item, I Give and Bequeath To my Sister Sarah Nicholas my Right Interest and Title in the Township of Hengam, and like wise all other Rights and Titles whatsoever in New England Government –

Item I do order Constitute and appoint My Father in Law Rice Nicholas My Sole and Onely Executor of this my Last will and Testament And I do hereby utterly Disallow Revoke and Disanull all and every other former Testaments Wills Legacies and Executor by me in any ways before this time Named willed & bequeathed Ratyfieing Confirming this and no other to be my last will and Testament. In Witness whereof I have hereunto Set my Hand and Seal the day and year above written.

Signed Sealed Published pronounced

and Declared by the sd Elnathan as

his Last will and Testament

In Presence of us Subscribers (vizt)

Richard Cole

          his

Peter  X  Cudrewsat[?]                                                                                                        Elnathan Bartlett                             (seal)

        mark

Langton Fallon

 

Proved on 12 June 1739 by Richard Cole, one of ye subscribing witnesses in Richmond County, Province of New York. Rice Nicholas took the oath to perform the duty as Executor on 16 June 1739 in Richmond County, New York.

Presented for probate in Plymouth County, Province of Massachusetts Bay, by Thomas Foster, Attorney to the Executor, on 2 June 1741, the will was approved, and administration was granted to Rice Nicholas, the Executor.

 

Thomas Harlow, Samuel Cornish and Josiah Clarke, all of Plymouth, were appointed to appraise the estate of Elna. Bartlett, late of Plymouth, Cooper, on 3 June 1741. The Inventory of the Estate of Elnathan Bartlett, late of Plymouth, dated 29 July 1741, totaled £619.2.6, his house & 50 acres of land valued at £540, and a 60-acre wood lot valued at £40, plus an additional £5.4.0 added to the inventory by the Executor. Rice Nichols, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 3 Aug. 1741.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 8, pp. 364-365, 401, from FHL microfilm #0551531.

 

 

Will of John Bartlett of Plymouth, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1772) *

                                                In the Name of GOD, Amen.

I John Bartlett of Plymouth in the county of Plymouth within the province of the Massachusetts-Bay in New-England, innholder, being advanced in years and infirm of body, but of sound disposing mind & memory thanks be given to GOD therefor, do make this writing for my last will and testament, and first & principally I comend my soul into the hands of my creator, relying on the merits of Jesus Christ for obtaining the remission of my sins and eternal life; my body I recomend to the earth to be buried in decent manner at the discretion of my executor hereafter-named.          Firstly. I order my executor to pay all my just debts, funeral charges, and the charge of setling my estate. ~

2dly. I give and bequeath to my beloved wife Sarah all the articles of houshold goods which she brought with her at our marriage. and whereas by a certain contract made at the time of our marriage I agreed with her the said Sarah that she should possess & enjoy one of the rooms in my dwelling-house during her widowhood, and she having chosen the southeast chamber in my said house comonly known by the name of the shop-chamber I give and bequeath to her the said Sarah the use & improvement of the said shop-chamber, with the privilege of passing to & from said chamber, either down the front stairs, or thro’ the back chamber down the back-stairs to the kitchen, as she may think it convenient. Also a privilege in the kitchen, yard, & well. also the use of six chairs now in the chamber. all during the time that she remains my widow. ~

3dly. I give & bequeath to my sons John & Charles their heirs & assigns forever, the house in which I now dwell with the land adjoining, together with the barn thereon standing, with all the privileges & apurtenances unto the same belonging, towit, one moiety or half part of said house & land with the apurtenances, I give & bequeath unto him the said John Bartlett his heirs, & assigns forever; and the other moiety or half part thereof I give & bequeath to him the said Charles Bartlett his heirs & assigns forever. And whereas my last named son Charles will not arrive to the age of twenty one years till the year of our Lord 1780, it is my mind & will that my son John shall improve the whole of said lands & buildings during the minority of said Charles, and in consideration therefor he shall pay unto his other brother George the sum of three pounds lawful money yearly & every year until the aforesaid Charles shall arrive at full age as aforesd.

3dly. I give & bequeath to my son George Bartlett his heirs & assigns forever the aforesaid sum of three pounds annually to be paid him by my son John, until my said son Charles arrive at full age. And it is my will that if my son Charles shou’d dye before he arrive to the age of twenty one years, that then my said son George shall have the one moiety or half part of my house & land with the apurtenances as above bequeathed to him the said Charles, and in such case I do hereby give it to him the said George his heirs & assigns forever.  I also give & bequeath to my said son George the one half part of a certain house-lot with the buildings thereon standing, and about four acres of land adjoining situate at a place called Eel-river, which house & land was purchased by my brother Joseph Bartlet & myself, equally between us, to him the said George his heirs & assigns forever.     I also give & bequeath to him the sd. George the sum of forty pounds lawful money to be paid by my executor out of my estate which I have not disposed off in this my last will (if so much shall be remaining after my just debts, & funeral charges, & the charge of setling my estate are first paid. ~

4thly. I give and bequeath to my daughter Abigail one bed and furniture which she shall chuse. also a high chest of draws which was her mother’s. also one chamber table which was her mother’s. to her & her heirs & assigns forever.—

5thly. I give and bequeath to my three sons John, George, & Charles all my wearing aparel, my arms & amunition, to be equally divided between them.

6thly. I give to my wife Sarah the use & improvement of my largest watch during the time she remains my widow. also the privilege of a seat in my pew in the meeting house.

7thly. I give & bequeath to my eight children towit Sarah Faunce, Hannah Doten, Jerusha Peckham, John Bartlet, Abigail Bartlett, Maria Babb, George Bartlet & Charles Bartlett, one feather bed & one silver spoon each, to them their heirs & assigns forever.

8thly. I do hereby constitute name & ordain my son John Bartlett sole executor of this my last will & testament, and I do hereby order & direct my said executor to sell & dispose of my two wood lots, and my meadow at Saquash for the payment of my debts & charges and the legacies in this my will given. –

9thly. All the rest & residue of my estate real, personal or mix’d after my debts, charges, & the legacies given in this my will, are paid; I do hereby give & bequeath the same to my said five daughters Sarah, Hannah, Jerusha, Abigail, & Maria, to be equally divided between them, to them their heirs & assigns forever. ~

                                Lastly. I do hereby revoke & disanul all & every other former will or wills by me heretofore made, and by these presents ratify & confirm this instrument to be my last will & testament.  In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand & seal this fourteenth day of November in the thirteenth year of his Majesty’s reign, and in the year of our Lord Christ one thousand, seven hundred seventy & two.—

Sign’d, seal’d, & da’ by the sd.                                                                                         John Bartlett                                     (seal)

John Bartlet & declared to be his

Last will & testament in presence

of us  John Russell,  Thomas Wethrell

                Ed Winslow junr.

 

Presented for probate on 1 Mar. 1773 by John Bartlett, the Executor therein named, and proved by Edward Winslow junr. and Thomas Wethrell, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to John Bartlett, the before named executor.

 

The Inventory of the estate of mr. John Bartlett, late of Plymouth, was appraised on 5 Mar. 1773 by Thomas Foster, Thomas Matthews, and Ed Winslow junr., and totaled £823.15.4, including his dwelling house and land valued at £450, two wood lots and a salt meadow, and half the dwelling house at Eel-river in partnership with dea. Joseph Bartlett valued at £15, Violet, a negro-woman, valued at £10, Allex a negro-boy aged 8 years, and Jem aged 6 years, together valued at £60.

John Bartlet, the executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 4 May 1773.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 21, p. 232-235, from FHL microfilm #0550712.

 

 

Will of John Bartlett of Plymouth, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1802) *

  In the Name of God Amen. I John Bartlett of Plymouth in the County of Plymouth in New England Yeoman, being of a sound & disposing Mind, considering the Uncertainty of Life do think proper to settle my worldly affairs, & to make my last Will and Testament, in Manner following, – viz first of all I commend my Soul to the everlasting Mercy of God thro’ Christ, & my Body to a decent Burial, humbly hoping for a Glorious Resurrection thro’ the Merits of my Redeemer, and as to my worldly Estate, I dispose thereof as follows.—

                1st. I give & bequeath to my beloved Wife Ruth, the Improvement of one third of my Real & personal Estate during her Widowhood, together with all the Household Furniture she brought with her, when I married her, also all the Linen she shall make while she lived with me –

                2d. I give to my two surviving Sons viz Ellis & Samuel & their Heirs two thirds of all my Real & personal Estate to be equally divided between them, also I give to my two Sons viz Ellis & Samuel my Widow’s thirds of my Estate both Real & personal after her Widowhood or Decease to be equally divided between them, they paying to my daughter Mercy after my Widow’s Marriage or Decease one hundred Dollars equally between them, ‘tis my will that my two Sons above mentioned have my wearing Apparel equally between them ‘tis my Will that my two Sons pay all my just Debts together with my funeral Charges, & receive all Dues & Demands I had against any person – ‘tis my will, that my two Sons Ellis & Samuel be the sole Executors of this my last Will & Testament– In Testimony & Consideration of which I the said John Bartlett do hereunto set my hand & Seal this ninth day of Feby in the Year of our Lord one thousand Eight hundred & two –

Signed, sealed & declared to be his last Will

and Testament in presence of –                                                                                        John Bartlett                                     (seal)

                Abner Bartlett

                James Harlow Jr.

                Anne Bartlett

 

Presented for probate on 9 May 1814 by Ellis Bartlett and Samuel Bartlett, the Executors therein named, and proved by James Harlow Junr., one of the witnesses thereto subscribed, Abner Bartlett Esqr. and Anne Bartlett both now being deceased. Letters of Administration were granted to Ellis Bartlett and Samuel Bartlett, the before named Executors.

 

Josiah Cornish, Gentleman, Joseph Bartlett Esqr. and Francis Bartlett, Yeoman, all of Plymouth, were appointed to appraise the estate of John Bartlett, late of Plymouth, Gentleman, on 9 May 1814. The Inventory of the Estate of John Bartlett, dated 12 May 1814, totaled $1982.28, including his real estate valued at $1671. Ellis Bartlett and Samuel Bartlett, the Executors, gave their oath to the inventory on 7 Nov. 1814.

 

Joseph Bartlett 3d. Esqr., Josiah Cornish, Gentleman, and Francis Bartlett, Yeoman, all of Plymouth, Freeholders, were appointed to set off to the Widow Ruth Bartlett as her Dower one third of the Real Estate of John Bartlett, late of Plymouth, on 23 June 1814. The division was dated 1 July 1814, and approved on 1 Aug. 1814.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 45, pp. 362-363, 517-519, from FHL microfilm #0550903.

 

 

Will of Joseph Bartlett of Plymouth, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1756) *

In the Name of God Amen.

        I Joseph Bartlett of Plimouth in the County of Plimo. Gentleman, being in Tolarable Helth and of a Sound mind (Blessed be God for it) do make my Last Will and Testamt. as follows Viz.

                I Recommend my Soul to God that Gave it Humbly Hoping for Salvation thro’ the Meritts of Jesus Christ the Saviour of Mankind, and my body to a desent Christain burial @ the Discretion of my Executors hereafter named,  And as Touching the Estate God has blessed me with I Dispose of the same as follows Viz.

I Give to my beloved wife Elizabeth Bartlett (in Lieu of her Dower of my Estate) all the Monies Indoore moveables & Provisions which I may be Possessed of @ the time of My death My Negro Girl named Violett and my Chase Horse and Beding Chair To Hold to her and her Heirs & Assigns forever

                I Likewise Give my said wife the use and Improvemt. Of the front Westerly Room in my now Dwelling House the Chamber and Garrett Over the said Room, and the Entry & Stare=way in the front of the said House; and a Previledge in the Seller under the same, and the Kitchin Buttrey and Sink Room in the same House as shall be Convenient for her and the use of one half of my Chaise House, and the use of One Quarter of my Home Barn During the Term of her Naturall Life or Widohood; I also Give her a Suficiancy of fire Wood Cutt fit for the fire & brought to said House During the Term aforesaid, and the Produce of One Quarter Part of my Farm to be yealded to her Clear of Charge by my Sons Silvanus & Zacheus in Equall Halves, and to be Delivered her Yearly and Every Year during the sd. Term,

                                I Give to my Son Silvanus Bartlett and to His Heirs and Assigns forever all that Tract of Land lying @ Monument Pond in said Plimouth known by the name of Warren’s Lott which I Purchased of My Brother Benjamin Bartlett, Elnathan Bartlett & Phebee Barnes @ Severall Times, and Two thirds of my Pasture called the Point pasture, Likewise all that my Sedge Ground near Beefhill in said Plimouth and my Lott of Ceaderswamp Lying in Plimton which I Purchased of John Carver always Provided and upon Condition That the said Silvanus and his Heirs and Assigns do Pay and Discharge one half of my Just Debts and Funerall Charges, and yeald to his said mother one half of the said fire wood, and the One Halfe of the said Quarter of the Produce of the said Farm, as above Expresed, and Pay to my Daughter Jerusha Crosswell and her Heirs &c, what I shall Herein Divise to Her, and to my Daughter Elizabeth Ryder, and her heirs the One half of the Sum of money which I shall herein Bequeath her.  I Give to said Silvanus and to his Heirs half the Lott I Bought of Isaac & Sarah Little near Sacrifice Brook in said Plimouth

                                I Give to my Son Zacheus Bartleet & to his Heirs and Assigns forever all my Homstead with the Buildings thereon Standing (Except what I have herein Disposed off) one Third part of the aforesaid Point Pasture; all my Meadow next the Sea @ said Monument Ponds, my Wood lott @ a place called Daniells Kills, all my Wood Land Adjoyning to the sd. Homstead and my Ceader swamp in South meadow Ceaderswamp which I Purchased of Samuell Morton; allways Provided & upon Condition that he or his Heirs Executors, Admrs, or Assigns pay and Discharge One half of Just Debts and Funerall Charges, and Yeald to his said Mother one halfe of the said fire wood and the one half of the said Quarter of the Produce Of the said Farm as above Expressed, and Pay to my Daughter Lydia Parker and her Heirs, the sum I shall herein Bequeath to her, and to my Daughter Elizabeth Ryder & her Heirs &c, the one half of the sum of money I shall herein Bequeath to her

                I Give to my son Silvanus Bartlett to & for the Seperate use and Benifitt of my Daughter Jerusha Crosswell wife of Joseph Crosswell and to her Heirs; two Cows, ten Sheep and a Yearling Heifer. I Likewise Give to my sd. Son Silvanus for the same use Seventy five pounds Lawfull money, to be paid to her with lawfull Interest within three Years after my Death, if she shall in his Judgment need it for her and her Childrens Support, and in Like maner as that non of it can be applied to the payment of her said Husband’s Debts, or to his use any otherways then for the Support of my said Daughter and her Children; I Likewise Give to my said Daughter a Living in my now Dwelling House in case she Should be a Widow.

                                                I Give to my Daughter Lydia Parker wife of mr. Jonathan Parker, one Cow, two Yearling Heifers, and one Sheep, I also Give her the Sum of Seventy five pounds Lawfull money to paid to her or her Heirs with Lawfull Interest by my Son Zacheus within three Years next After my Decease.

                                I Give to my Daughter Elizabeth Rider wife of Benjamin Rider Junr. One Yoke of Oxen, two Cows two, two year old Heifers two, two year old Steers, and Ninteen Sheep, I also Give to her the Sum of Seventy five pounds lawfull Money to be paid her or Her Heirs with lawfull Interest one Half by my Son Silvanus, and the Other Halfe by my Zacheus in three years next after my decease; These Legacies I Give to my said Daughters over and above what I have Heretofore Given them,

                                                I Give all the Rest of my Estate Real & Personall to my said Sons Silvanus & Zacheus, and their heirs and Assigns for ever in Equall Halves, and Revoking all Other Wills; and in Confirmation of this, and making my said Sons Executors hereof, I have hereunto Sett my hand & Seal Septr. The 4th. Annoque Domi, 1756

        Signed Seal’d Published                                                                                             Joseph Bartlett                                 (seal)

& Declared; by the said Joseph

to be his Last Will & Testamt,

In Presence of

James Curtiss

John Cobb

James Hovey

 

Presented for probate on 23 July 1756 by the Executors therein named, and proved by James Hovey, James Curtiss and John Cobb, the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Silvanus Bartlett and Zacheus Bartlett, both of Plimo., the Executors, on 23 July 1756, with Elkanah Watson and John Lothrop, of Plimouth, as sureties, on the estate of Capt. Joseph Bartlett, late of sd. Plimo., Gentleman.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 14, p. 121-125, from FHL microfilm #0551542.

 

 

Will of Joseph Bartlett of Plymouth, Plymouth County, Massachusetts Bay (1782) *

        In the Name of God Amen – I Joseph Bartlett of Plymouth in County of Plymouth in New England Shoreman, Considering my own mortality, and that the time of my departure may be at hand, and being at present (blessed be God for it) of a sound disposing mind and memory, do make this my Last will & testament First of all I Give my Soul to God that Gave it, hoping for a Salvation and acceptance with him through the perfect Righteousness of Jesus Christ my dear Redeemer my body I Commit to the dust to be decently buryed at the discretion of my Executors herein after named, nothing doubting but the same shall be Raised again at the Last day, and as to what Earthly Substance God hath blessed me withal I Give and dispose of as followeth

Imprimis—I Give to my dear and Loving wife Sarah Bartlett the use and improvement of all my Estate Real and personal so Long as she Lives my widow Except so much of it as my Executors hereafter named should want of my Estate to pay my Just debts and funeral Charge, and if my wife should marry again, I Give her one half of personal Estate Except so much as is hereafter mentioned

Item—Give and bequeath to my well beloved Son Joseph Bartlett, the one half of my Real Estate he to have as much of it at my death as to pay one half of my Just debts and funeral Charges and at my wife’s Second marriage or death to have the whole half, he paying one half of my Just debts & funeral Charge and Legacies hereafter mentioned; I also Give to my said Son Joseph the one half of my wearing Apparell and my Cain with my name upon it, at my wife’s death, to have my Great Bible and half Mr. Henry’s Annotations Books; also Give my Pew in Mr. Robbins meeting House, to him and his heirs & assigns forever, Except what is hereafter mentioned

Item—I Give and bequeath to my well beloved Son Thomas Bartlett the one half of my Real Estate he is to have so much of it at my death as to pay one half my Just debts and funeral Charges, and at my wife’s Second marriage or death to have the whole half, he paying one half my Just debts and Legacies; I also Give him one half of my wearing Apparell, my Other walking Cane and half Mr. Henry’s Annotations books at my wife’s death to him and his heirs & assigns forever, on this Condition that my Son Thomas shall Give to my Son Joseph the one half of his Interest in all the Lands Given him by his Uncle Mr. Thomas Bartlett deceased and half his Interest in thirty acre wood Lot I bought of Mr. Ebenezer Bartlett deceased, I having paid the full value of said Lands in debts & Legacies the said Lands Lying at a place Called Eell River in Plymouth ~

Item—I Give and bequeath to my well beloved daughter Sarah Bartlett one Sixteenth part of all my Estate Real and personal Clear of my Just debts and funeral Charges are paid, Except to so much as is hereafter mentioned, to her and her heirs & assigns forever to be paid by my Executors hereafter named in one year after my wife’s death in personal Estate & money, not to Reckon any thing she has already had nor to demand my Book debts of her, which I Suppose will be her full Share of my Estate and my daughter Sarah nor her heirs shall not demand no Rent for house and Land I improved

Item—I Give and bequeath to my well beloved daughter Martha Jackson one Eighth part of all my Estate Real and personal Except what is hereafter mentioned after my Just debts and funeral Charges are paid and what she already has had & what her husband Mr. Nathaniel Jackson has had to be part of her Eighth, and my will is, my said daughter Martha shall have my best Bed & furniture with my Green China Curtains and Green Bed Quilt, my Great Looking Glass, my desk & Round table in my Great Chamber, half dozen of my best Chairs, and half my pewter if due to make up her Eighth part, and if there is any more, to be paid by my Executors hereafter named in two years after my wifes death to her and her heirs and assigns forever

Item—I Give and bequeath to my well beloved Grandson John Bartlett one half of my pine Lot of Forty acres Lying above Billington Sea so Called I bought of the Heirs of Mr. Nathaniel Donham deced to him and his heirs forever ~

Item—I Give and bequeath to my two Grand Children William Hosea and Hannah Hosea Children of my daughter Hannah Hosea deced one Sixteenth part of all my Estate Real and personal that is Left after my Just debts and funeral Charges is paid, equally to each, to be paid by Executors hereafter named to my Grandson when he arrives at the age of twenty one years and to my Grand daughter she arrives at the age of twenty one years or day of marriage, and if either of them should decease before that age his or her part shall Go to and paid to the other that Survives to them and their heirs forever

Furthermore my will is that if my Son Thomas dont Give to my son Joseph the one half of his Interest that he has in Land at a place in Plymouth by the name of Eell River afore mentioned, then my Son Joseph shall have over and above the half of my Real Estate, the Land & meadow I bought of John Churchill and a wood Lot at a place Called Lout pond I bought of Jonathan Barnes I do also hereby appoint my two Sons Joseph Bartlett & Thomas Bartlett both of Plymouth Executors to my said will & testament–In Testimony of all which I have hereunto Sett my hand and Seal this Eleventh day of October in the year one thousand seven hundred and Eighty two – 1782

Signed Sealed, published, pronounced

and declared in presence of us                                                                                          Joseph Bartlett                                 (seal)

        Isaac Lothrop

        Abrm. Hammatt

        Thaddeus Churchill

 

Presented for probate on 11 Oct. 1783 by Joseph Bartlett and Thomas Bartlett, the Executors therein named, and proved by Isaac Lothrop and Abraham Hammatt, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Joseph Bartlett and Thomas Bartlett, the before named Executors.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 29, p. 59-61, from FHL microfilm #0550715.

 

 

Will of Joseph Bartlett of Plymouth, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusett (1834) *

            In the name of God, Amen: I, Joseph Bartlett of Plymouth, Esquire, being of sound and disposing mind and memory, do make and publish this my last Will & Testament in manner following.

            Im primis – I give and devise my Dwelling House and Lot and the buildings thereon to my three daughters, viz, Rebecca, Susan and Eliza-ann, in fee simple forever.

            Second, I give and bequeath the Piano Forte to my two daughters, Rebecca and Eliza-Ann: and all the rest and residue of my furniture I give and bequeath to my Wife and my three daughters, Rebecca, Susan and Eliza Ann, to be equally divided among the four.

            Thirdly – I give and devise to my Wife the improvement of one third part of my Real Estate, during the term of her natural life, meaning hereby to include one third life estate in my Dwelling House & lot & buildings thereon, above mentioned.

            Fourthly – All the rest and residue of my Estate, both real and personal, I hereby give, devise and bequeath to my three daughters aforementioned, and the children of my son William Bartlett, viz, Susan Louisa, Betsey Thatcher, and John – the said three children of my son William, to take one fourth part of said residue.

            Fifthly – I hereby nominate and appoint Benjamin M. Watson, as Executor of this my last Will & Testament

            In testimony whereof, I the said Joseph Bartlett, have to this my last Will & Testament, set my hand & seal this twenty sixth day of May in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and thirty four

                                                                                                                                                Joseph Bartlett                                 (seal)

            Signed, sealed, published & declared by the said Joseph Bartlett, as his last Will & Testament, in the presence of us, who, in his presence, and at his request, have hereto set our names, as Witnesses, this twenty sixth day of May eighteen hundred & thirty four.

                                                                                                                                                Wm Thomas

                                                                                                                                                Mary Ann F. Stevenson

                                                                                                                                                Joshua B. Thomas.

 

Presented for probate on 13 Apr. 1835, and proved by William Thomas and Joshua B. Thomas, two of the subscribing witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Benjamin M. Watson, of Plymouth, Esquire, on 13 Apr. 1835.

 

The Inventory of the estate of Joseph Bartlett Esqer, late of Plymouth, was appraised by Nathl. M. Davis, Elias Thomas, and Bartlett Holmes on 16 May 1835, and totaled $5727.69½, including his real estate valued at $5109.25, of which his house and lot on Court Street was valued at $2750, and several other parcels of land. Benjamin M. Watson, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 18 May 1835, and he notified the court that the estate was insolvent to pay his just debts, and he was given license to sell the personal estate of the deceased for the payment of his debts.

 

Ebenezer G. Parker, of Plymouth Esquire, was granted administration de bonis non with the Will annexed of the estate of Joseph Bartlett, late of Plymouth, Esq., Benjamin M. Watson, the Executor therein named, being now also deceased leaving administration of said Estate still to be done and finished, on 7 Dec. 1835, with N. M. Davis and J. B. Thomas as his sureties.

 

Ebenezer G. Parker, Administrator on the Estate of Joseph Bartlett, late of Plymouth, de bonis non with the Will annexed was ordered to sell at public auction the personal estate of the deceased on 18 Jan. 1836. The estate was again inventoried on 11 Jan. 1836 by Nathaniel M. Davis, John B. Thomas, and Roland E. Cotton, and totaled $5559.69½, his real estate valued at $5109.25, and the piano forte valued at $15.

 

Nathaniel M. Davis and John B. Thomas, both of Plymouth, were appointed to examine the claims against the estate of Joseph Bartlett, late of Plymouth, Esquire, on 12 Jan. 1836, and the claims totaled $456.79 on 8 Aug. 1836.

 

Plymouth 5 December 1836 Received of E. G. Parker Admr. de bonis non with the Will annexed of the Estate of Joseph Bartlett Esq. deceased the Piano Forte which was bequeathed to us in the last Will and Testament of said deceased and we promise to hold the said Instrument subject to the order of the said Administrator for the term of four years from the seventh instant provided it shall become necessary to dispose of the same during the time aforesaid for the payment of any debt or debts which may hereafter be found to be due from said Estate.

                                                                                                                                                R. Bartlett

                                                                                                                                                E. A. Bartlett

 

Plymouth 5 December 1836 Received of E. G. Parker Adm de bonis non with the Will annexed of the Estate of Joseph Bartlett Esquire, deceased all the furniture of which the deceased died possessed and which was bequeathed to us in his last Will and Testament for a more particular description of which reference may be made to the Inventory returned by the appraisers of said Estate into the Probate Office in Plymouth Mass. and we promise to hold the said furniture subject to the order of the said Administrator for the term of four years from the seventh instant provided it shall become necessary to dispose of the same during the time aforesaid for the payment of any debt or debts which may hereafter be found to be due from said Estate.

                                                                                                                                                Lucy D Bartlett

                                                                                                                                                R. Bartlett

                                                                                                                                                Susan Bartlett

                                                                                                                                                E. A. Bartlett

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 77, pp. 127-128, 179-184, from FHL microfilm #0555264, Vol. 71, p. 463, and Vol. 78, pp. 6-9, 317-317, 544-545.

 

 

Will of Mary Bartlett of Plymouth, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1796) *

In the name of God amen. I Mary Bartlett of Plymouth – – – – – widow of Lemuel Bartlett late of Plymouth deceased being in health of body & of sound & disposing Mind after committing my Soul to God who gave it & my Body to the Grave with a decent Burial –

I give and bequeath to my two eldest Sons Lemuel Bartlett & William each a small Pocket Bible. –

Item I give to my Son Rufus Bartlett all my Land at Duck plain so called in Plymouth that is undisposed of, also one quarter part of all my Estate both Real or personal. –

Item the remainder of my Estate whether Real or personal I give to my three Daughters namely Mary Sturtevant Jane Doten & Rebecca Holmes equally between them –

And I do appoint my Son Rufus Bartlett to be Executor of this my last will & Testament in Testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand & Seal this 22d. Septembr. AD 1796

in presence of

Benja. Warren

Sarah Morton                                                                                                                       Mary Bartlett                                    (seal)

Jean Warren

 

Presented for probate on 23 Jan. 1811 by Rufus Bartlett, the Executor therein named, and proved by Majr. Benjamin Warren, one of the Witnesses thereto subscribed, Sarah Morton and Jean Warren being both since deceased. Letters of Administration were granted to Rufus Bartlett, the before named Executor.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of the Widow Mary Bartlett, late of Plymouth, was appraised on 20 Nov. 1810 by Nathl. Spooner, Benjn. Drew junr. and Ezra Harlow junr, and totaled $241.78, no real estate. Rufus Bartlett, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 23 Jan. 1811.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 43, p. 365-366, from FHL microfilm #0550902.

 

 

Will of Samuel Bartlett of Plymouth, Plymouth County, Massachusetts Bay (1780) *

In the name of God Amen—I, Samuel Bartlett of Plymouth being sensible of the Certainty of death and uncertain of the time thereof & being desirous of making a disposition of my small Estate before my departure, being of a sound disposing mind & memory do make this my Last will & Testament hereby Revoking all my other and former Wills

Item—First & principally I Resign my soul to God who Gave it trusting in the merits of the Reedeemer of mankind for Eternal salvation and my body to be decently buried at the discretion of my Executor herein after named

Item—I Give to my beloved wife Elisabeth Bartlett, after my debts are all paid, the whole of the improvement of all my Estate, both Real & Personal untill my youngest son then Living shall arrive at fourteen years of age and after that time the whole of my Estate both Real & Personal to be divided in the following manner – my beloved widow to have one third of the whole of the improvement her Life time. the Other to be equally divided amongst my children, Except my two daughters Mary Finney & Elisabeth Churchill to be deducted from each of their shares Twenty pounds each, to be divided equally between the other nine children, and after my widow’s death her thirds to be equally divided amongst all my Eleven children

Item—I hereby appoint Mr Nathl. Morton junr my sole Executor of this my Last will and Testament– Witness my hand & seal at Plymouth April the Fifth one thousand seven hundred & Eighty, in the 4th. year of American Independence

Signed, sealed & delivered & declared                                                                           Samuel Bartlett                                (seal)

to be the Last will of sd Bartlett in

presence of us

                James Doten

                Rebecca Morton

                Thaddeus Churchill

 

Presented for probate on 24 May 1780 by Nathaniel Morton junr, the Executor therein named, and proved by James Doten and Thaddeus Churchill, two of the witnesses.

The Inventory of the Estate of Mr. Samuel Bartlett, late of Plymouth, was appraised on 24 Nov. 1780 by James Doten, Joseph Bartlett junr. and Lemuel Morton, and totaled £537.9.4, including his homestead valued at £375. Nathl. Morton junr, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 13 Dec. 1780.

 

To Mrssrs. Amasiah Churchill junr. & Joseph Bartlett junr., both of Plymouth, Mariners,

Whereas Samuel Bartlett Late of sd. Plymouth yeoman deced on the fifth day of April Anno Domini 1780 made his Last will & Testament in writing & Signed Sealed & delivered the same before Sufficient witnesses, which will was duly proved & approved & after Gifts & Legacies then made he appointed Nathaniel Morton junr. Sole Executor of the same will, but he having deceased before he had compleated his said Excorship – and whereas the power of committing Admon. & full disposition of all & singular the Goods, Chattells Rights & Credits of the sd deced remains still to be administered upon & to be done & finished, & also the hearing examining & allowing the account of such admon. doth appertain unto me – Trusting therefore in your care & fidelity I do by these presents commit unto you full power to administer all & singular the Remaining Goods, Chattells, Rights & Credits of the sd deced Saml Bartlett first mentioned, & well & faithfully to dispose of the same according to Law & the direction of the said will… In Testimony whereof I have hereunto Sett my hand & Seal of the Court of Probate the 20th day of May Anno Domini 1784.

                                                                                                                                                Jos. Cushing

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 25, p. 491-493, from FHL microfilm #0550713, and Vol. 27, p. 501-502.

 

 

Will of Susan Bartlett of Plymouth, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1846) *

In the name of God Amen—I Susan Bartlett of Plymouth in the County of Plymouth, Single-woman do make and publish this my last Will and testament.

                I devise give and bequeath all my real Estate of which I may die seized and possessed, or to which I may be entitled at the time of my death, to my Sister Eliza Ann Goodwin, wife of Albert G. Goodwin of said Plymouth, to have and to hold to her the said Eliza Ann Goodwin to her sole and seperate use, free from the interference and control of her husband.

                I give, devise, and bequeath all my personal property of every description to my niece Eliza Hussey Goodwin daughter of the said Eliza Ann.

                I hereby nominate and appoint William Davis to be Executor of this my last will and testament

                I Witness Whereof I the said Susan Bartlett have hereunto put my hand and seal this twenty sixth day of January A.D. eighteen hundred and forty six.

                                                                                                                                                Susan Bartlett

                                                                                                                                                        X                                    (seal)

                                                                                                                                                    her mark

Signed, sealed, published and declared by the said Susan Bartlett the Testatrix as and for her last Will and Testament in our presence who at her request, in her presence, and in the presence of each other have subscribed our names as Witnesses hereto.

                Nathl. M. Davis

                John B. Thomas

                Lemuel D. Holmes

 

Presented for probate on 8 June 1747 by William Davis, the Executor therein named, and proved by John B. Thomas and Lemuel D. Holmes, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters Testamentary were granted to William Davis, the Executor.

 

William Davis, of Plymouth, was granted Administration of the estate of Susan Bartlett, late of Plymouth, Singlewoman, on 8 June 1847, with Nathaniel M. Davis, of Plymouth, as surety.

John B. Thomas, Nathaniel M. Davis, and Lemuel D. Holmes, all of Plymouth, were appointed to appraise the estate of Susan Bartlett, late of Plymouth, on 8 June 1847.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Susan Bartlett, late of Plymouth, was appraised on 23 Nov. 1847, her real estate was valued at $810, and her personal estate totaled $293.66. William Davis, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on the first Monday of Dec. 1847.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 89, pp. 223-224, 517, from FHL microfilm #0555639, and Vol. 2H, p. 125.

 

 

Will of Thankful Bartlett of Plymouth, Plymouth County, Massachusetts Bay (1782) *

In the name of God Amen—I Thankful Bartlett of Plymouth in the County of Plymouth & State of the Massachusetts Bay in New-England, widow, being Stricken in years & Lying on a Sick Bed knowing it is appointed to all men once to dye, tho’ at present in perfect mind & memory do appoint & ordain this to be my Last will & Testament viz^–first of all I bequeath my Soul into the hands of God that Gave it hoping thro’ the merits of Jesus Christ my Saviour to Recieve the free pardon of all my Sins, my body I commit to the Earth to be decently buried by my Executors hereafter named, believing by the mighty power of God to Recieve the same at the General Resurrection, and as to my worldly Estate which God in his Providence hath Endowed me withal – I give & dispose of in manner following

First–I Give & bequeath unto my Eldest Son James one third of my whole Estate Real & personal

Item–I Give & bequeath the Remaining two thirds of my said Estate to my three Children & Grand Child viz^ William, Lucy, Thankful & my Grandson Jonathan to be equally divided between them

Item–I Give to my Son in Law John Cornish Five Shillings

Finally–I Do hereby appoint & ordain my two Sons James and William to be Executors of this my Last will & Testament & that they pay out of the Estate my funeral Charges & all my Just Debts – In Testimony whereof I hereunto Sett my hand & Seal this ninth day of February Anno Domini One thousand Seven hundred & Eighty two

Signed, Sealed & declared in                                                                                                             her

        presence of –                                                                                                                Thankful  X  Bartlett                           (seal)

John Blackmer                                                                                                                                    mark

Andrew Bartlett

Branch Blackmer

 

Presented for probate on 10 Apr. 1782 by James Bartlett and William Bartlett, the Executors therein named, and proved by Andrew Bartlett and Branch Blackmer, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to James & William Bartlett, the before named Executors.

No inventory of her estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 28, p. 278-280, from FHL microfilm #0550715.

 

 

Will of Thankful Bartlett of Plymouth, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1845) *

In the name of God Amen, I Thankful Bartlett of Plymouth, in the County of Plymouth, being weak in body but of sound and disposing mind and memory, do make and publish this my last Will and Testament.

I give and devise to George W. Bartlett, Jr. Son of my Sister Sarah Bartlett deceased the sum of Fifteen Dollars.

I give my Niece Lucia W. Bartlett Ten Dollars.

I give my Niece Catherine Holmes Five Dollars.

I give my Niece Deborah Pierce Five Dollars.

I give my Niece Eliza Hammond Five Dollars.

I give my Nephew Peter W. Doten Five Dollars.

I give my Nephew Lemuel Doten Five Dollars.

I give my Niece Betsey Doten Five Dollars.

And it is my Will, that all my property both Real and Personal, excepting the Legacies aforesaid, shall be divided, as follows, viz.

One half to my Sister Henrietta Blackmer, Wife of Ezra H. Blackmer.

One half to Lucy Clark Wife of Israel Clark, to have and to hold the same to them and their Heirs and Assigns – And I do hereby appoint Israel Clark Husband of my Sister Lucy Clark to be Executor of this my last Will and Testament.

In witness whereof I, the the said Thankful Bartlett have hereunto set my Hand and Seal this Twentieth day of June, in the year of our Lord, one thousand eight hundred and forty five.

Signed, Sealed, published and declared by the said Thankful Bartlett, as her last Will and Testament in the presence of us, who in her presence, and at her request, have hereto set our names as Witnesses.

                                                                                                                                                Thankful Bartlett X her mark

   Samuel Bartlett, 3d.                                                                                                                                                                          (seal)

   Amasa Bartlett, 2d.

   William Clark +

 

Presented for probate on the second Monday of Aug. 1845 by Israel Clark, the Executor therein named, and proved by Samuel Bartlett 3d and William Clark, two of the Witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters Testamentary were granted to Israel Clark, the Executor.

 

Israel Clark, of Wareham, was granted Letters Testamentary on the Estate of Thankful Bartlett, late of Plymouth, widow, on 11 Aug. 1845, with Seth Clark and Thomas Cornish, both of Plymouth, as sureties.

Israel Clark, Samuel Bartlett 3d and Nathaniel Clark, all of Plymouth, were appointed to appraise the estate of Thankful Bartlett, late of Plymouth, on 11 Aug. 1845.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Thankful Bartlett, late of Plymouth, was not dated, but her dwelling house and lot was appraised at $210, and her personal estate totaled $82.49. Israel Clark, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 11 Dec. 1845.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 87, p. 357-358, from FHL microfilm #0555638, Vol. 2H, p. 49, and Vol. 88, p. 37-38.

 

 

Will of Thomas Bartlett of Plymouth, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1758) *

In the Name of God Amen, I Thomas Bartlett of Plimouth in the County of Plimouth in New England yeoman, Considering my own Mortallity and that the time of my Departure may be at hand and being at present (Blessed be God for it) of sound disposeing mind and Memory, Do make this my last will & Testament.

First of all I Give my Soul to God hopeing for acceptance with him through the perfect Righteousness of my Dear Redeemer my body I commit to the Dust to be decently buried at the Discretion of my Executer hereafter named, Nothing Doubting but the same shall be raiz’d again at the last day, and as to what Earthly substance God has blessed me withall, I Give & dispose as followeth.

First. I Give to my Dear and Loveing Abigail Bartlett one half of the Income of my Farm whereon I now dwell viz, One half of the Profits of the whole so that if my Executor Leasses out the place, the Tennant to have One half as is Customary and the whole of the Other half to be to my said wife to and for her support Dureing her widowhood or while she Continues my widdow. Likewise the improvement of the best room in my House and as much of the other part of the House & buildings as makes up the One half Dureing her remaining my widdow, Also I Give to my said wife the use of One half my Pew in the meeting house, Dureing her life. also liberty of Cutting Eight Cords of wood of my wood Lotts Pr. year, for her Own fireing, the whole to be cut and Carted for her yearly by my said Executor without any Cost to my said wife, so long as She Continues to dwell in my said House, as my widdow, Furthermore I Give unto my said wife my Indian Servant Girl Sarah Cunnet Bound by Indenture to us, Also I Give to my said wife the whole use and improvement of all my Household Stuff & Books Dureing her being my widdow, but if she shall marry again then I hereby give her one third part of my said Household goods & Books to her & to her Disposal as She shall see Cause Except such Books as I have Given and Bequeathed in this my will, also my will is that my Executor always find & provide at his Cost as Executor a good Beast for her use & improvement to Ride on, also two Cowes such as she shall chuse & six of the best Sheep & one swine for each & every year dureing her remaining my widdow, and further my will is that if my said wife Should marry again that my said Executor shall then pay her the sum of twenty Six pounds, thirteen Shillings & four pence lawfull money at the time of her mariage and these I Give and bequeath to my said wife as her full right of Dowry, and power of thirds in my Estate.

2ly. I Give and bequeath to my Brother Ebenezer Bartlett my twenty acres of land (be it more or less) formerly laid out to James Barnaby and by Capt. James Warren Conveyed to my Honrd. Father Robert Bartlett deceasd is part of my Homestead wheron I now dwell, and Bounded Begining at a Stone set in the bound on the Southerly side of the Roade above my House and from said stone about South East by a Maple tree (Standing in the fense) Marked and thence in the same range to a small Beach tree marked on four Sides standing also in the fense and thence on the same range to the Brook and for the Other Boundaries Reference is had to the Deed of said twenty acres from said Warren to my said father, Togather with all the Buildings fences and trees standing and being on said land all hereby given to him for and dureing his Natural life, also my wood Lot I bought of William Clark, and at said Ebenezers Death, the whole of the above premisses to Descend and belong to my said Brother Ebenezers son, Thomas Bartlett to him and to his heirs and assigns forever, and also half my Pew in the meeting House.

3.  I Give and Bequeath unto my Nephew Thomas Bartlett son of my brother Joseph Bartlett to him & to his heirs and assigns forever, all the Residue and remainder of my Homestead On which I now dwell Containing by Estimation forty acres be it more or less Togather with my peice of Meadow adjoyning to Eell river at Mortons Landing so called contains about two acres, and all that my one Sixteenth part of Plimouth Beach and my half of the wood Lott Joseph Warren & I bought of Samuel Bartlett Esqr also one half of my Right & Interest in South Meadow Cedar Swamp, and also my Share or Lott of Mean land that fell to my father Mr. Robert Bartlett in the last Division of the Comon lands of the Proprietors of Plimouth and Plimton, and half my Pew in the Meeting House after my wifes decease.

4  I Give to the Children of my Brother John Bartlett to be paid as hereaftermentioned Thirteen pounds Six Shillings & Eight pence lawfull money to be Equally divided among the Children of my said Brother.

5  I Give to the Children of my Brother Robert Bartlett the like sum of thirteen pounds six shillings & 8d. to be paid as hereafter mentiond & to be equally divided to and among them.

6  I Give to my Brother Lemuel Bartletts Children to be paid as hereaftermentiond the like sum of Thirteen pounds Six Shillings & Eight pence to be paid as hereafter mentiond and to be Equally divided to and among them —

7ly.  I Give to Thomas Sears and Willard Sears sons of my Sister Elizabeth Sears the sum of Eight pounds lawfull Money to each of them and one Cow & Calf and ten Sheep to each of them when and as they arrive to the age of twenty one years, to be paid by my Executor out of my Estate.

8ly.  I Give to Abigail Bartlett wife of Ebenezer Bartlett my Brother the sum of Six pounds thirteen shillings and four pence & Sarah Faunce wife of Thomas Faunce of Plimouth the like sum of Six pounds thirteen Shillings & four pence, And to Chloe Sears daughter of my Sister Elizabeth Sears the like sum of Six pounds thirteen Shillings & four pence to be paid to each of them in lawfull money as hereafter Ordered ~~

9  I Give to each of the Children of my Brothers & Sisters That is to say, to so many of them as shall be alive at my Death a Handsom English Bible with Phsalms & Clasps and each & every of them a Catechism within Six months after my decease to be procured and Given to them by my Executor & paid for out of my Estate.

10  I Give to the First Church of Christ in Plimouth the sum of Six pounds thirteen Shillings & four pence to be paid out of my Estate within One year after my decease viz four pounds to purchase a piece of plate for said Church, And the remainder to be laid out in Catechisms & Distributed to & among the Children of the said Church.

11  I Give and Bequeath to my five Brothers, John, Joseph, Ebenezer, Robert & Lemuel Bartlett, all my wearing Apparell to be Equally Divided among them.

12.  I Give to my Brother Robert Bartlett my Great Bible and to my Brother Ebenezer Bartletts son Ebenezer my Second Volume of mr. Flavells works.

and to Thomas Bartlett son of my Brother Joseph Bartlett my Book is mr. Robert Frails Sermons.

and Doctr Watts. Sermons, is viz first Volumn to John Bartlett son of Brother John Bartlett and the Second Vollumn to Lemuel Bartlett the son of Lemuel Bartlett. And all the Remainder of my Books I Give to my abovesd. five Brothers John, Joseph Ebenezer, Robert & Lemuel Bartlett, to be Equally divided to and among them, after my wifes decease.

And finally all the remainder and Residue of my Estate whatsoever and wheresoever I Give to my Beloved Brother Joseph Bartlett and he to pay all my Just Debts and Legacies be forementioned and my funeral Charges, togather with all the profits he may make of my farm, in Plimouth after my wife receives the whole of One half as Before Beforementioned of the profits and if the Residue Given to my said Brother togather with the profits he may make of the farm be not Sufficient to pay all my Just Debts funeral Charges and Legacies then the said Legacies and Charges, Shall be paid out of that part of my Real Estate which I have in this my will Given to his son Thomas Bartlett, That is to say so much of sd. Debts and Legacies as the improvement & personal Estate Shall fall Short (if any) And further my will is that the Legacies Given Excepting those the time of payment of which is herein before Expressed be paid by my said Executor hereafter named as follows, That is to say what I have in this my will to my Brother Johns Children and to Abigail Bartlett Given to be paid in Cash Shall be paid them by my executer within One year after my said wifes decease or Second Mariage, and what I have given as aforesaid To my Brother Roberts Children and to Sarah Faunce Shall be paid unto them within two years after my wifes Decease or Second mariage, and what I have Given to my Brother Lemuel Bartletts Children, and to Chloe Sears as afforesaid Shall be paid them within three years after my said wifes decease or Second Mariage.  And I do hereby Constitute and appoint my said Brother Joseph Bartlett Sole Executor of this my last will and Testament, Hereby Revokeing all other & former wills by me made, Declareing this to be my last will and Testament.  In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand & Seal, this first day of April Anno Domini One thousand Seven hundred and fifty Eight —

Signed Sealed and Deliverd                                                                                               Thomas Bartlett                                (seal)

Published and Declared

In presence of us.

Samuel Bartlett

Nathaniel Shurtleff

Ephraim Spooner

 

Presented for probate on 5 Nov. 1764 by Mr. Joseph Bartlett, the Executor, and proved by Nathaniel Shurtleff and Ephraim Spooner, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration granted to Joseph Bartlett.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 19, p. 131-135, from FHL microfilm #0550711.

 

 

Will of Zacheus Bartlett of Plymouth, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1829) *

                According to the law, and I trust according to justice, I, Zacheus Bartlett of Plymouth, in County of Plymouth, Physition, dispose of my estate by this my will as follows –

                I give to my beloved wife Hannah, if she survive me, the use and improvement of all my estate, real and personal, during her life, with the exceptions that may follow, with full right to dispose of the personal to, and among our children, when and as she shall see fit – and also a right to sell such part thereof for the family’s use, when she and my other executor think proper.

                As an equivalent to my daughters for what I have advanced and charged to my sons Sidney and George for expenses of their education, I give in fee, in equal parts and in common all the house and lot with its appurtenances to my daughters Margaret and Caroline, being what I purchased of the heirs of Joseph Avery.

                Although I have charged my sons Sidney and George with equal sums for their education, yet, recollecting that Sidney’s was at a time when all things were dearer, and from no other consideration, or unkind bias, I direct my Executors, within a year from my decease, to pay to my son George, or to his heirs, two hundred dollars, if it can be raised out of my personal estate, not otherwise.

                And I appoint my wife Hannah, and my son Sidney Executors of this will.

                In Witness of all which I have hereto set my name and seal this nineteenth day of September in the year of our Lord eighteen hundred and twenty nine.

  Witness                                                                                                                                Zacheus Bartlett                               (seal)

                John Russell

                Deborah Russell

                Caroline Jackson

                Feby 26, 1835. Memo – That four hundred dollars which I have advanced to my daughter Margaret, is so much to be deducted from her right in the house and lot in this named.

                                                                                                                                                Zacheus Bartlett.

 

Presented for probate on 18 Jan. 1836, and proved by John Russell, one of the subscribing witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Hannah Bartlett of Plymouth, Widow, and Sidney Bartlett of Boston, in the County of Suffolk, Esquire, on 18 Jan. 1836.

No inventory of the estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 78, p. 10-11, from FHL microfilm #0555264.

 

 

Will of Caleb Bassett of Middleborough, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1837) *

Be it remembered that I Caleb Bassett of Middleborough in the County of Plymouth and commonwealth Massachusetts yeoman being weak in body but of sound and disposing mind and memory do this twentieth day of March in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and thirty seven make and publish this my last will & Testament in manner following that is to say.

I give to my daughter Abba Dunbar Thirty Dollars

I give to my son Cyrus Bassett eleven acres and a half of swamp it being a part of the Seventh lot in the old Cedar swamp so called in Bridgwater and to heirs and assigns forever.

I give and bequeath to my son Caleb Bassett jun and his heirs and assigns one undivided half of all the Real Estate I shall die seized of in the aforesaid Middleborough including one undivided half of my homestead farm with one undivided half of all the buildings thereon together with the whole of my out door moveables and farming utenstils and stock except one Cow and one colt –

I give to my son Keith Bassett one dollar

I give and bequeath to my daughter Bethiah Staples thirty dollars

I give and bequeath to my daughter Eunice Bassett one undivided half of all my Real Estate in the aforesaid Middleborough of which I shall die seized of including one undivided half of all the buildings thereon standing to her and her heirs and assigns forever, with also all my indoor moveables and household Furniture except the bed and bedding whereon I now sleep and also one Cow and one colt

I give and bequeath to my daughter Sophronia Richmond Thirty dollars also one bed and bedding whereon I now sleep.

I also give and bequeath to my son Caleb Bassett jun and to my daughter Eunice Bassett all my Estate Real and personal not herein before bequeathed and devised wherever the same may be found equally between them. I also order them to pay all my just debts and funeral charges and also all the Legacies herein before bequeathed and devised equally between them and lastly I do constitute ordain and appoint my son Caleb Bassett jun and my daughter Eunice Bassett joint Executors of this my last Will & Testament. In Witness whereof I hereunto set my hand and seal the day and year above written.

                                                                                                                                                Caleb Bassett                                    (seal)

Signed, sealed published, pronounced and declared by the said Caleb Bassett as and for his last Will & Testament in the presence of us who at his request and in his presence hereunto set our names as Witnesses to the same

                                                                                                                                                David Peirce

                                                                                                                                                Job P. Parris

                                                                                                                                                Wm C. Parris

 

Presented for probate on the last Tuesday of May 1841 by Caleb Bassett jun the Executor therein named, and proved by Job P. Parris and William C. Paris, two of the Witnesses thereto subscribed.

 

Caleb Bassett and Eunice Bassett were granted administration of the estate of Caleb Bassett, late of Middleborough, Yeoman, on 25 May 1841, with Job P. Parris and William C. Parris, all of Middleborough, as sureties.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 83, p. 226-227, from FHL microfilm #0555267, and Vol. 1G, p. 376.

 

 

Will of Joseph Bassett of Bridgewater, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1736) *

In the Name of God amen. the twelfth Day of January-1735/6. I Joseph Bassett of Bridgewater in the County of Plymouth in New-England Husbandman, being now in Health of Body, and of perfect Mind & Memory, Thanks be given to the Great God; Yet calling to Mind the Mortality of the Body, and knowing that it is appointed for all Men once to dy, do Make & ordain this my last Will & Testament, That is to Say, Principally & first of all, I Give & Recommend my Soul into the Hands of God who gave it, & my Body I Recommend to the Earth to be buried with decent Christian Burial at the Discretion of my Executor, Nothing doubting but at ye General Resurrection I shall recieve the Same again by the Mighty Power of God. And as touching Such Worldly Estate wherewith it hath Pleased God to bless me in this Life, I Give Demise & Dispose of the Same in the following Manner & form —

Imprims. 1st It is my Will that all my Debts & Funeral Charges, be well & truly paid in convenient Time after my Decease, & that out of those moveables with are to be equally divided among my Children —

2ly I Give & Bequeath unto my Oldest Daughter Bethiah Bassett all my Home Lot or that Tract of Land upon which my Dwelling House now Stands, Containing about thirty Seven Acres & an half, with the Buildings thereupon, & the Priviledges belonging thereunto, With all my Moveables within Doors of what Sort soever, or all my Houshold Goods of any kind —

3ly I Give to my Second Daughter Mehetabel Holloway now living at Middleborough in the County of Plymouth, Twenty two acres of Land joyning in Part to Moses Washburn’s Land, and in Part to my Brothr Williams, who are both in the Township of Bridgewater aforesd. And also a Certain Island in Nippenickett Pond, Containing about Seven or Eight Acres —

4ly I Give to my Third Daughter Lydia Phillips of Norten in the County of Bristoll, Eleven Acres of Land joyning in Part to ye Land of my Kinsman Joseph Bassett, and in Part to the Land of my Brothr William, both in the Township of Bridgewater; and also half a Lot of Meadow joyning in Part to William Snow’s Land in ye Township abovesd., and bounded in part by the Town River —

5ly All my Moveables, except those above mentioned Given to my Daughter Bethiah, I Give to my three Daughters to be equally Divided among them, & all my Right in any Land or Lands in Bridgewater aforesd Except the above mentioned —

6ly Among my Stock of Cattel, there is one Heifer of about three Year old & another about two Year old My Daughter Bethiah’s, by right of her own Purchase wch are not to be reckond among my Moveables —

Finally I appoint my Daughter Bethiah Bassett Sole Executrix of this my last Will & Testament, Hereby Ratifying & Holding this & no other to be my last Will & Testament, and Disallowing all other Wills before this by Me made. In Witness whereof I have hereunto Set my Hand & Seal the Day & Year abovewritten —                                                                                                                                                                                his

Signed Sealed Published Pronounced & Declared                                                         Joseph   X   Bassett                          (seal)

by ye sd Joseph Bassett as his last Will & Testamt.                                                                       mark

In Presence of Us the Subscribers

John Shaw  Eleazr Carver  Ephraim Jennings

 

Proved on 7 Feb. 1736[/7] by John Shaw, Eleazer Carver, and Ephm Jennings, the witnesses. Administration of the Estate of Joseph Bassett was granted to Bethiah Bassett, the Eldest Daughter of the deceased, on 11 Feb. 1736[/7].

 

The Inventory of the Estate both real & personal of Joseph Bassett, late of Bridgewater, who dyed the twenty eighth day of November-1736, was appraised by Josiah Edson, Nathanl Willis and Joshua Fobes on 17 Feb. 1736/7, and totaled £525.10.0, his Housing & Homestead valued at £270, the land by Moses Washburn’s & ye Island in the Pond valued at £74, and the half lot of meadow & the 11 acres by Joseph Bassett’s valued at £73. Bethiah Bassett, the Executrix, gave her oath to the inventory on 8 Nov. 1737.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 7, pp. 265-266, 345-346, from FHL microfilm #0550513.

 

 

Will of Joseph Bassett of Rochester, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1807) *

        In the Name of God Amen I Joseph Bassett of Rochester in the County of Plymouth & State of Massachusetts Gentleman, being of sound & disposing Mind & Memory for which I return thanks to the Almighty God – Calling to Mind the Mortality of Man do make & ordain this to be my last will and Testament & first & principally I give & bequeath my immortal spirit to God who gave it & my Body to the Earth to be buried in a decent & Christian like manner. And what earthly Estate, it has pleased God to bless me with, I dispose of in the following Manner and Form —

        Imprimis, I give & bequeath to my Well beloved Daughter Asenath Doty wife of Thomas Doty one Feather Bed & necessary Bed Furniture. —

        Item I give & bequeath to my well beloved Grandson Thomas Doty all the rest my Estate that I shall die legally seized & possessed of both real & personal to him his Heirs & Assigns forever, after paying my just debts funeral Charges and the Cost of settling my Estate which I direct to be done by my Executor hereafter named out of my personal Estate if that shall be sufficient, if not the remainder out of my Real Estate —

        And I do hereby constitute ordain & appoint Nathan Willis Esqr. sole Executor to this my last Will & Testament, Witness my hand & Seal this ninth day of July in the Year of our Lord one Thousand eight hundred & seven —

NB the Words the rest & Estate were interlined before signing —

signed sealed published & pronounced by the said                                                      Joseph Bassett                                  (seal)

Joseph Bassett to be his last Will & Testament in the

presence of us who in his presence & at his request

set our Names as witnesses to the same ~

        Wm. Nye

        Moses Mendell

        John P. Nye

 

Presented for probate on 5 Jan. 1807 [sic] by Nathan Willis Esqr. the Executor therein named, and proved by William Nye and Moses Mendell, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Nathan Willis Esqr., the before named Executor. [Indexed as probated in 1808.]

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 42, p. 237, from FHL microfilm #0550902.

 

 

Will of Thomas Bassett of Rochester, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1833) *

Be it remembered that I Thomas Bassett, of Rochester in the County of Plymouth, Yeoman, do make & publish this to be my last Will and Testament as follows, Viz:

        All my personal and real estate excepting such personal estate as is hereafter bequeathed, shall be sold at Public Auction by my Executor hereafter named, as soon after my decease as to my said Executor shall deem meet. And out of the proceeds my said Executor shall pay all my just debts. My said real estate shall be sold as aforesaid subject to my wife’s dower. I give & bequeath to my wife Lydia the use & improvement of all that shall remain in my said Executors hands after the sale & payment of debts as aforesaid, during her natural life, And after her decease I give & devide the same to my sons, Abner Anselm, John & Ezra, their heirs & assigns to be equally distributed between them. It is to be understood that I have already given to my sons, Newcomb, Thomas and Stephen and to their several children all the property that I ever propose to give them, they having severally had gifts by way of advancement.

        I give and bequeath to my wife Lydia my red Cow, & two year old white heifer to hold forever.

        I hereby appoint my son Anselm Bassett sole Executor of this my last Will & Testament, hereby revoking all former Wills by me made.

        In witness whereof I have hereto set my hand & seal this fifth day of January in the Year of Our Lord One thousand eight hundred and thirty three.

                                                                                                                                                Thomas Bassett                (seal)

Signed, sealed, published & declared by the above named Thomas Bas-

set to be his last Will & Testament in the presence of us who at his

request & in his presence have hereto set our names as witnesses to

the same.

        Ephraim Bates

        Wing Hedley

        Lucy Bates

 

The Will of Thomas Bassett, late of Rochester, Esquire, was probated on 8 May 1833, and proved by Ephraim Bates & Wing Hedley, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration granted to Anselm Bassett.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Thomas Bassett, Esquire, late of Rochester, was appraised by Seth Haskell, Obed Boles and Ephraim Bates on 8 May 1833, his real estate totaled $2063.33, including his homestead farm on both sides of the road valued at $1200, and his personal estate totaled $467.43. Anselm Bassett, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 8 May 1833.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 74, pp. 154-157, from FHL microfilm #0555262.

 

 

Will of William Bassett of Rochester, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1749) *

In the Name of God Amen

the Twentyeth day of Novr. Anno Domi, Seventeen hundred & Forty Nine, I William Bassett of Rochester in the County of Plimouth Yeoman, Being helth and of perfect Mind and Memory thanks be Given to God therefor. Calling to Mind the mortality of my Body, and Knowing it is Appointed for all men once to dye, do make and Ordain this my Last Will and Testament that is to say Principally and first of all I Give recommen, my Soul into the hands of God that Gave it, and my Body I Recommend to the Earth to be Buried in Decent Christan Buriel at the Discretion of my Execrs. nothing Doubting but at the Generall Resurrection I shall Receive the same again by the Mighty power of God, and as Touching Such Worldly Estate wherewith it hath pleased God to Bless me in this life I Give Demise and Dispose of the same in the Following Manner and Form

Imps. My Will is that all my Just Debts and Funerall Charges shall be first paid Out of personall Estate, by my Execr hereafter named

Item  I Give to my Eldest son Isaac Bassett Twenty shillings Old Tenor, Being in full of his proportion with what he hath allready Received

Item, I Give to my Second Son Mosses Bassett twenty shillings, Old Tenor being in full of his Portion with what he hath allready Received

Item  I Give to my third Son William Bassett Twenty shillings Old Tenor Being in full of his portion with what he hath already Received

Item  I Give to my Eldest Daughter Fear Rogers Seven pounds Old Tenor: Being in full for her Portion, with what she hath Allready Received

Item  I Give to my Second Daughter Experience Bassett the One half of her Mother’s Cloaths which she Left as she and her Sister Mary Bassett hath allready Divided them Togather with the Bed and Beding and One half the Pewter Brought by her said Mother, and also one of her Mothers Chests, the Bed Standing in the Bedroom at the East End of the Leanto which with the Legacy of Eight pounds Given her by her Grandfather Jenkins which she hath allready Received is in full of her Portion

Item  I Give to my third Daughter Mary Bassett the one half of her Mother’s Cloathes which she Left, as She and her Sister Experience Bassett hath Divided them togather with the One half of the Pewter Brought by her said Mother And One of her Chests, with ten pounds Old Tenor, and a Legacy of Eight pounds Old Tenor Given her by her Grandfather Jenkins, which sums of ten pound Old Tenor And Eight pounds Old Tenor is to be paid her by Execr. One year after my decease, with Lawfull Interest for the said Eight pounds from the First Day of May next Till paid

Item, I Give and Bequeath to my Youngest Son Nathaniel Bassett, and to his heirs and Assigns, all my Estate both Real and Personall not before Disposed of, he paying the Severall Legacies Herein Given to my Other Children and Performing what I shall Hereafter Order & Direct to & for my Loving Wife Susanna Bassett in this my Last Will and Testament; and My Will is that my Two Sons Samuel Bassett and Nathll. Bassett shall be Joynt Execrs. of this my Last Will and Testament Untill said Nathaniel comes of Lawfull Age and then the sd. Nathl Bassett to be Sole Execr. by himself, and in case the sd. Nathl. Shall Dye without Issue my Will that what I have Given Shall Descend or be & Belong in Equall Partnership to my Son Samll. Bassett, Experience Bassett and Mary Bassett my Two youngest Daughters

                Furthermore my Will is, that if my present & Liveing Wife Susanna Bassett is Willing to Discharge her Right of Dower and power of thirds in my Estate, That then My said Execr. Shall pay her Thirty pounds Old Tenor at my Decease, and that she be allow’d to Carry away or Dispose off all she Brought to me at our Intermarriage Seeing I have never either Recd. or Improved her Right of Dower or power of thirds in her first Husbands Estate, Otherwise I am Senisable it is not in my power to Deprive her hereby of her Right in Law, And I do Hereby Disallow Revoke & Disannull all & Every Other Former Testament Will Legaies and Bequests and Execrs. by me in any ways before named Willed & Bequeathed Ratifying and Confirming this & no Other to be My Last Will and Testament. In Witness whereof I have hereunto Sett my hand & Seal the Day and Year above written

Signed, Sealed, Published                                                                                                                  his

Pronounced & Declared by the                                                                                         William  X  Bassett             (seal)

sd. William Bassett as his last                                                                                                           marke

Will & Testament, In the

Presence of us Subscribers

Saml. Sprague

Ruben Dexter

Noah Sprague

 

Probated on 7 Apr. 1755, and proved by Noah Sprague, one of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to the sd Decds. two sons Samuel Bassett and William Bassett, Joynt Executors in the same Will on 7 Apr. 1755.

 

The Inventory of the Estate real & personall that William Bassett late of Rochester Dyed seized of was appraised by Noah Sprague, Ebenr. Clap and Josephus Hammond on 19 Apr. 1755, and totaled £217.3.7, including his real estate valued at £186.13.4. Nathaniel Bassett, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 13, p. 435-437, from FHL microfilm #0551540, and Vol. 14, p. 12-13, from FHL microfilm #0551542.

 

 

Will of William Bassett of Rochester, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1798) *

In the name of God Amen. I William Bassett of Rochester in the county of Plymouth, Gentleman, being of sound & disposing mind & memory, for which I return my most sincere thanks to the great & sovereign dispenser of all good; calling to mind the mortality of man, do make & ordain this my last will & testament; and first & principally, I do give & bequeath my imortal spirit to God who made it, and my body to the earth, to be buried in a decent christian burial, and as to that portion of earthly estate, with which it has pleased God to bless me, I dispose of in the following manner & form

        Imprimis, I Give & bequeath to my well beloved wife Thankful, the improvement of one third part of all the real & personal estate, I shall die seized of, to be to her the said Thankful instead of her right of dower & power of thirds, to be by her improved according to the law, with regard to tenant & dower

        Item. I Give & bequeath to my son Anson Bassett all the piece of land I hold by Deed from David Peckham & Elisha West and so much more land adjoining the same as will make ten acres in the whole, to be divided from my other lands by a line parallel with David Peckham’s line, and I further direct that my son Anson be brought up untill he is fourteen years old, and the expence thereof more than the improvement of said ten acres of land, be defrayed out of my other estate

        Item. I Give & bequeath to my Daughter Silvey Allen, wife to Justis Allen, Ten Dollars, in addition to what she has already recieved, to be paid to her in one year after my decease, on condition that she sign the deed to Seth Mendal, Nathl Haskell & Melatiah Clark of the land & buildings I sold to them

        Item, I Give & bequeath to my well beloved daughter Bethiah Bassett Five Dollars, and to my well beloved daughter Polly Bassett Five Dollars to be paid to them when they arrive to the age of Eighteen years, and a right for them to live in my house untill married, and the privilege to cut fire wood on my land to support one fire

        Item, I also Give & bequeath to my well beloved son John Bassett all the real estate I own in Rochester, and all the personal estate I shall died seized of, excepting what I have otherways disposed of in this my last will & testament, he paying all my just debts & funeral charges, and the expence of settling my estate & such legacies as I have ordained in this my last will as aforesaid.— And I do hereby appoint David Peckham of Rochester, Executor to this my last will & testament, with full power to do and perform all that shall be necessary for him to do in said capacity.— In Testimony of which I hereunto set my hand & seal, this eleventh day of September, in the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred & ninety eight

Signed, Sealed & Pronounced by said Wm

Bassett to be his last will & testament                                                                            William Bassett                                 (seal)

in presence of us

                Joseph Bassett

                Thomas Doty

                Nathan Willis

 

Presented for probate on 9 Nov. 1798 by David Peckham, the Executor therein named, and proved by Joseph Bassett & Thomas Doty, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed.

 

Joseph Bassett, Nathl. Haskell & Nathan Willis, all of Rochester, yeomen, were appointed to appraise the estate of William Bassett, late of Rochester, yeoman, on 9 Nov. 1798.

The Inventory of the Estate of William Bassett, late of Rochester, not dated, totaled $558.99, including his homestead farm & buildings estimated at 30 acres valued at $240, 7 acres of improv’d land west of the Publick Road valued at $100, one lott wood land East of Mill River valued at $25, and a few other small swamp lots. David Peckham, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 31 July 1799.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 36, p. 447-448, and Vol. 37, p. 71-73, all from FHL microfilm #0550719.

 

 

Will of William Bassett of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1840) *

  In the name of God Amen. I William Bassett of Bridgewater in the County of Plymouth and Commonwealth of Massachusetts Yeoman, enjoying usual health and of sound and mind and memory do this twenty fifth day of February Anno Domini One thousand eight hundred and forty make and publish this my last will and testament in manner following that is to say.

  1st. I give and bequeath to my beloved Wife Abiah Bassett all the personal property of which I may die seized and possessed of every name and discription after the payment of my just debts and incidintal charges. Also the use and improvement of one half of all my buildings. I likewise give to my said wife One half of all the produce of every kind that shall grow or be raised on my homestead farm (including that tract east of the school house) to be at her disposal annually during her natural life and also the right to sell or dispose of all the wood and timber that may be growing on the lot which I hold by deed from Capt Benjamin Snell at such times And in such proportions as she shall see fit during her natural life.

2d. I give and bequeath to my son William Church Bassett the east end of the lot of swamp in the 71st lot in the little Cedar Swamp which I hold by deed from Capt. Daniel Tolman extending from the east shore Westward until it meets Hartwell Keith’s lot.

3d. I will and bequeath to my son William Bassett the west end of the aforesaid lot of swamp which I hold by deed from Tolman extending easterly from the line of the great meadows untill it meets that part of said tract already bequeathed to my son William Church

  4th. I will and bequeath to my daughter Hannah Alden the wood lot which I hold by deed from Capt. Benjamin Snell, to come into the possession thereof at the deceas of her mother.

5th. I will and bequeath to my son Abial Bassett the lot of meadow which I hold by deed from Alpheus Fobes at the town river. Also all my right in two lots of swamp in the old Cedar Swamp which my father bought of Daniel Snow

6th. I will and bequeath to my daughter Henrietta Howard two lots of swamp lying in the little Cedar Swamp which I hold by deeds from Zachariah Eddy and Galen Howard.

7th. I will and bequeath to my daughter Harriet Williams a lot of Swamp lying in the Old Cedar Swamp which I hold by deed from Avery Fobes and Abner Keith

 8th. I will and bequeath to my daughter Cornelia Abia Howard One lot of Cedar Swamp in the Old Cedar Swamp which my father bought of Seth Snow at the same time when he bought said Snow’s farm.

 9th. I will & bequeath to my son Josiah Lothrop Bassett all my real estate not herein before disposed of Wherever the Same may be found. To have and to hold to him the said Josiah his heirs And Assigns forever On Condition that he the said Josiah Cultivate my said homestead farm in a proper manner and collect and store such crops as are usually put under Cover and in their proper places, barn, Cornhouse or cellar and at their proper season annually one half of each kind of said produce is to belong to my said wife and that he set off to my said Wife the southerly half of each of the buildings on said homestead and of the Cellar and deposite her half of said produce in their appropriate places in her parts of the buildings and Cellar so set off to her free of expence to her either for Cultivating, harvesting or Storeing. And also it is my will that my said son keep the pasture on said homestead well fenced so that my said wife Can occupy one half of it at all times free of expense to her.

  And lastly I do Constitute and ordain my said Son Josiah Lothrope Bassett sole executor of this my last will & testament directing him to sell so much of the personal property of Which I may die seized as shall be necessary to pay my just debts & incidental charges.

  In testimony Whereof I do hereunto set my hand sand Seal the day and year above written.

                                                                                                                                                Wm. Bassett                                       (seal)

                Signed, Sealed, published, pronounced and declared by the said William Bassett as and for his last Will and testament in presence of us at whose request and in his presence we have hereunto set our names as Witnesses to the same

                Isaac Fobes

                Aretas Fobes

                Philander Leach

 

Presented for probate on the third Monday of Jan. 1844 by Josiah L. Bassett, the Executor therein named, and proved by Isaac Fobes and Aretas Fobes, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters Testamentary were granted to Josiah Lothrop Bassett, the Executor therein named.

 

Josiah L. Bassett, of Bridgewater, was granted Letters Testamentary on the Estate of William Bassett, late of Bridgewater, Yeoman, on 15 Jan. 1844, with Isaac Fobes and Aretas Fobes, both of Bridgewater, as sureties.

No inventory of the estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 86, p. 1-3, from FHL microfilm #0555637, and Vol. 1G, p. 421.

 

 

Will of Thomas Bates of Wareham, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1797) *

In the Name of God Amen. – This thirtieth day of March A.D. 1797 – I Thomas Bates of Wareham in ye County of Plymouth & Comwealth of Massachusetts, yeoman, being of a disposing mind & memory, do make & ordain this my last will & testament, wherein I give & recommend my soul unto the hands of God who gave it, and my body to the earth to be buried in a decent christian burial; and as touching my worldly goods or estate, I give, devise & dispose of the same in manner following.~

Impris I Give & bequeath to my daughter Lydia Bates, the use & improvement of the following part of my homestead lands, meadows & buildings—vizt. beginning at the Fence that incloses the lands my house & barn stands on, where sd Fence joins the homestead lands of my son Samuel Bates & southerly of my barn, thence running north easterly by sd Fence as it now stands untill it comes to the fence that passes by the north side of my barn, and From thence a strait line to the bounds of my salt meadow at the head of a ditch between my meadow & my son Saml. Bates’s meadow, thence including the meadow that I hold by heirship From my Hond. Father & gravelly point Island, so called, & round by the salt water, untill it comes to the meadow I hold by deed From Joseph Gifford, then bounded by the edge of the upland untill it comes to my sd son Samuel’s homestead land, and by his land to the First bounds including my dwelling house, barn, corn house & all my other buildings; all to be improved, possessed & enjoyed by her sd Lydia during her natural life; and Further, if sd gravelly point island should not afford her sufficient Fire wood for her own Fire, she shall have liberty of getting old or dry wood on the other part of my lands; always excepting & reserving one half of the Fruit of my orchard & other Fruit trees on the aforesaid premises – one feather bed & Furniture, & also that bed, two coverlids & a pair of sheets that I have that was my daughter Margaret Bates’s deceased, also my loom & tackling, my worsted combs, my meal chest & sieves &ca. the first volume of the Revd. Mr Flavel’s works and also one third part of all the remaining part of my houshold Furniture & indoor moveables, (excepting wearing apparell & Fire arms.~

Item – I Give and bequeath to my son Samuel Bates and to his heirs or assigns, all the remaining part of my homestead lands, meadows &ca. as also all my right & title of lands in the woods called the Agawam great lots, all my cedar swamps; also the lands, meadows &c. above, the use whereof is given to my daughter–Lydia, to come into his possession after sd Lydia’s term shall expire—also, I give him, all my Stock of cattle, sheep, horses, swine, &c. not particularly disposed, of in this my will, as also, all my Framing tools & utensills, also the second volume of the Revd. Mr Flavel’s works, he paying all my just debts, Funeral expences &c. and legacies hereafter mentioned, and also I give him that bed I now own, which is in his house, as all other household Furniture I now have in his house—also, I give him, my wearing apparell, my arms & accoutraments, ammunition &c.

Item.– I Give to my daughter Sarah Washburn, the wife of William Washburn the one third part of all my houshold furniture, not particularily disposed of in this my will, & also Four Dollars, to be paid her by my Executor, within one year after my decease,

Item – I Give to my daughter Mercy Samson, the widow of Thomas Samson deceased, the one third part of all my houshold furniture not particularily disposed of in this my will, and also, Four dollars, to be paid her by my Executor in one year after my decease~

Item – I Give to my Four grand children by my daughter Patience Carver deceased—vizt. Mercy Benson, the wife of Joseph Benson, Dorothy Carver, Josiah Carver & Patience Carver, the sum of Four dollars, that is, one dollar to each of them, to be paid them by my Executor, within one year after my decease,

Item – I Give to my grand-daughter Clarissa Bates, the daughter of my son Samuel Bates, one Ewe Lamb,

Item – I Give to my daughter Lydia Bates, the sum of Four dollars over & above the aforesaid bequest made to her, to be paid by my Executor within one year after my decease

Item – I Give my Pew in the meeting house to my son Samuel Bates, my daughters Sarah, Mercy & Lydia, equally between them.~

Lastly—I constitute & appoint my son Samuel Bates my sole Executor to this my last will & testament, to whom I give and bequeath all the remainder part of my estate, be the same more or less, or whether the same be real or personal, of all kinds &c—and I do hereby ratify and confirm this & no other to be my last will & testament—In Witness whereof, I have hereunto set my hand & seal, the day & year above written~

Signed, Sealed, Pronounced &

declared by ye. sd. Thomas Bates                                                                                     Thomas Bates                                   (seal)

to be his last will & testament

in presence of ~

                Lemuel Burgess

                Samuel Swift

                Silas Swift

                Benjamin Briggs

 

Presented for probate on 2 Apr. 1804 by Samuel Bates, the Executor therein named, and proved by Lemuel Burgess and Samuel Swift, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Lemuel Burgess and Saml. Swift, both of Wareham, were sureties on the bond of Saml Bates, of Middleborough, as executor of the last will and testament of Thomas Bates, late of Wareham. No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 38, p. 533-536, from FHL microfilm #0550720.

 

 

Will of Elias Bayles of Jamaica, Queens County, Province of New York (1762) *

In the name of God Amen I Elias Bayles of Jamaica in Queens County in the Province of New York Yeoman being Sick and weak in Body, but thanks be to God of sound mind and memory do therefore make this my last Will and Testament in the following manner, Principally and first of all I give and bequeath my Immortal Spirit unto God my Creator who gave it trusting in his meer mercy through Jesus Christ my Saviour and Redeemer for Eternal Life and happiness in the World of Happified Spirits above, my Body I recommend to the Earth from whence it was taken to be Decently Interred at the Discretion of my Executors hereinafter named, and as to such Temporal Goods and Estate wherewith God has blessed me in this Life, I give Will Devise bequeath and Dispose thereof in manner and form following and first I Will and Order that all my Just debts and funeral Expences shall be fully & duly paid and Satisfied by my Executors out of my Estate,  Item I give and bequeath unto Mercy my Dearly beloved Wife (over and above what I have heretofore obliged myself to do by a written Agreement mutually made and confirmed between us before our intermarriage) My Negro Woman Slave called Sarah and my best Bed and furniture to be at her own disposal. I further give unto my said Wife the use of one of my Mares & Riding Chair with the use also of so much of my household Goods and Kitchen Stuff as she shall have occasion for during her stay in my house all which shall be in Lieu and in full of her Right and Title of Dower of into or out of my Estate,  Item I give and bequeath unto my Grand Son Elias Bayles of Jamaica aforesaid Yeoman the sum of twenty pounds New York money to be paid to him in one year after my Decease,  Item I give and bequeath unto three of the Children of my Son Nathaniel Bayles lately Deceased namely David, Elias and Mary the sum of forty Pounds, to wit, ten pounds to David, twenty pounds of Elias and ten pounds to Mary to be paid to them as they shall respectively arrive to Lawfull age or Marry which shall happen first.  Item I give unto my Daughter Hannah Marston Widow the sum of fifteen pounds to be paid unto her or her heirs within two years after my Decease,  Item I give and bequeath unto Inccrese Carpenter and Joseph Skidmore being two of the present Elders and Deacons of the English Presbytorian Church and Congregation of Jamaica afore said and to their successors Elders an Deacons of the said Church for the time being the sum of ten pounds New York money the yearly use or interest whereof shall be and continue unto the said Elders and Deacons and their successors for the maintaining supporting and upholding of a standing Ministry in the said Church (continuing of the Presbyterian Denomination) for ever,  Item I give and bequeath unto my Son Thomas Bayles the sum of fifty pounds and my two Mares, with my Waggons Ploughs Harrows and all other my utensils of husbandry and Carpenters and Wheelrights Tools absolutely to be at his own disposal, I likewise give unto him my said Son Thomas the use and benefit of all and singular my within and without door Moveables for and during the term of one whole year after my Decease excepting such part thereof as is above reserved to my Wife during her stay in my house as aforesaid and after that I give and bequeath the whole of the said within and without door moveables unto my two Sons Thomas and Daniel Bayles equally to be divided betwixt share and share alike as they can best agree between themselves to the Division thereof,  Item I also further give Grant and Devise unto my said two Sons Thomas and Daniel Bayles aforesaid and to their heirs and Assigns all and singular my Messuages Tenements Lands Meadows and Hereditaments whatsoever and wheresoever with the Residuary part of my moveable Estate if any be more than such as is above mentioned and disposed off to have and to hold the same and every part and parcel thereof unto my said two Sons in Severalty and to their several and respective Heirs and Assigns in an equal proportion from and after the time of my Decease, thenceforth for ever always reserving as is herein before reserved, and Lastly I do hereby nominate and appoint my said two Sons Thomas Bales and Daniel Bales together with my Grand Son Elias Bayles of Jamaica aforesaid Yeoman Joyntly and severally Executors of this my last Will and Testament hereby revoking and making null and Void all former Wills and Testaments by me in any ways heretofore made allowing this and no other to be my last Will and Testament,  In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and Seal this ninth day of January in the year of our Lord Christ One thousand seven hundred and Sixty two.

                                                                                                                                                The mark  X  of Elias Bayles                            (seal)

Signed Sealed Published and Declared by the above named Elias Bayles the Testator as and for his last Will and Testament in the presence of us who have here unto subscribed our names as Witnesses thereto in presence of the said Testator and in the Presence of Each other

Noah Smith

Nicholas Smith Junior

Benjamin Hinchman

 

Probated on 14 Apr. 1762, and proved by Nicholas Smith Junior and Benjamin Hinchman of the Township of Jamaica in Queens County. Letters of Administration granted to Thomas Bayles and Daniel Bayles, two of the Executors, on 4 May 1762.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from New York County Probate, Vol. 23, p. 337-340, copied from original Liber 23, p. 324-328.

 

 

Will of Israel Bayley of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1749) *

In the Name of God Amen the Twentyeth Day of November one thousand Seven Hundred forty and Nine, I, Israel Bayley of Bridgwater in the county of Plimouth in his Majesties Province of the Massachusets Bay in New England Gent. Being very weake in body but of perfect mind and memory thanks be Given unto God therefor Calling unto mind the mortality of my Body and knowing that it is appointed for all men once to Dye do make and ordain this my Last Will and Testament that is to Say Principaley and First of all I Give and Recommend my Soul into the Hands of God that gave it and my Body I: Recommend to the Earth to be Buried in Decent Christon Burial at the Discretion of my Excrs.; Nothing Doughting but at the General Reserrection I shall Receive the Same again by the mighty Power of God and as touching Such Worldly Estate wherewith it hath plesed God to Bless me in this Life I Give Demise and Dispose of the same in the following manner and forme – Imprimis. I Give and Bequeath to Kezia my Dearly Beloved Wife whome I Likewise Constiute make and ordain My Executor of this my Last will and testament the one Half of all my Estate both Real and personal after my Debts and funeral charges are paid to her and her heirs and assigns for Ever to their full and peaceable Possession for Ever –

I give to my bloved son Israel Bayle one quarter part of the other Half of my Estate both Real and personal to him & his heirs & assigns for Ever –

I give to my beloved son Warde Bayle one quarter part of the said half of my Estate both Real and personal to him and his heirs & Assigns for Ever –

I Give to my four Daghters Kezia Hannah Abigail and Rachel all the Remainder of my Estate to be Equally Divided betwext them

I Likewise Constitute Make and Ordain my beloved Beloved Brouther John Baly of Hanover in said county Yeoman Co.Executor With my Executrex of this my Last Will and Testement and I Likewise order and Direct my said Executrix and Executor if they Shall think it Best and most Conduable for the Good and Benefit of my above mentioned heirs to Sell and Dispose of any or all my Housing and Lands and Convart them into money or Purches other Lands for them always observing this for their Rule that when Israel Shall arive to full age of twenty one years to alow unto him the Yearly Rent or income of this part Yearly and Every year and Likewise to Each one of my Daughters when they Shall arive to the age of Eighteen or Shall marry to alow unto them the yearly rent or income of these parts Respectively, and when Warde Shall arive to the age of twenty one then he and all the Rest both Sons and Daughters Shall be put unto the free and full Possession of there portions as above Bequethed to be by them freely Possessed and Enjoyed and I do hereby utterly Dissallow Revoke and Disannul all and Every other former Testement Will Legacies and Bequests and Executors by me in any ways before named Willed and Bequeathed Ratefying and Confirming this and no other to be my Last Will and Testement in witness whereof I have hereunto Set my hand and Seal the Day and year above written

Signed Sealed Published Pronounced

and Declared by the Said Israel Bayle

as his Last Will and Testement in the                                                                                              Israel Baily                                           (seal)

Pressence of us the Subscribers

William Barrel Junr.

Ebezer Shaw

John Brett

 

Proved for probate on 21 May 1750 by William Barrel junr. and Ebenezer Shaw. Administration was granted unto his Widdow Kezia Bayle and his brother John Baly of Hanover, Yeoman, on 21 May 1750.

 

A True Inventory of all ye.  Estate Both Real and personal that Capt. Israil Baily Late of Bridgewater, died seized of was appraised by Joseph Edson, Ebenezer Shaw and David Kingman on 2 June 1750, but not totaled. His cash, land and buildings valued at £336.5.4. The appraisers gave their oath to the inventory on 2 June 1750, and Keziah Bailey, the Executrix, gave her oath to the inventory on 4 June 1750.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 12, pp. 265-267, 72-73, from FHL microfilm #0551539.

 

 

Will of Jonathan Beal of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1809) *

        In the Name of God amen. December 9th. 1809. I Jonathan Beal – of Bridgwater in the County of Plymouth & Commonwealth of Massachusetts yeoman being in a low State of Health, but of a sound disposing Mind & Memory calling to mind that it is appointed for all men once to die do make & ordain this my last Will & Testament, that is to say –

  Principally & first of all I give & recommend my Soul to God who gave it & my Body to the Earth to be buried in a Christian Burial at the direction of my Executor & as touching such worldly Estate as it has pleased God to bless me with in this Life, I do dispose of the same in the manner following –

        Imprimis I give & bequeath unto Abigail my well beloved Wife a comfortable support in Sickness & in Health & at her decease to be decently buried, which support is to be had from the portion given to my Granddaughter Nabby, I also grant her Liberty to dispose of the Furniture she brought with her that is not disposed of –

        Item I also give my second Son Azariah a piece of Woodland seven Acres, and I give & bequeath unto my three Sons Joseph, Azariah & Jonathan a Field lying west of Benjamin Robertson’s Barn containing about three Acres to be equally divided in one Year after my decease –

        Item I give & bequeath unto my Daughter Hannah the Wife of Noah Hill my Desk, which with what she hath already recd. is her full share of my Estate.–

        Item I give & bequeath unto my Granddaughter Nabby the Daughter of Josiah Hill all my Real & personal Estate, But if my Granddaughter should decease before her Mother, I bequeath my Real & personal Estate to my Daughter Nabby Wife of Josiah Hill with my Moveables –

        Item I do hereby constitute & appoint Josiah Hill the sole Executor of this my last Will & Testament & that he should improve the place & pay the Taxes –

        And I do hereby utterly disallow revoke & disannull all & every of the former Wills, Testaments Legacies, Bequests & Executors by me in any wise named willed & bequeathed, ratifying, confirming this & no other to be my last Will & Testament

In Witness whereof I the said Jonathan Beal, hereunto set my hand & Seal, the day & Year above written –

Signd. Seald. pronouncd. & declared by him

the said Jonathan Beal to be his last

Will & Testament before us the Subscribers                                                                  Jonathan Beal                                   (seal)

                Benjamin Robinson

                Eleazer Whitman

                Daniel Whitman

 

Presented for probate on 6 Sept. 1813 by Josiah Hill, the Executor therein named, and proved by Benjamin Robinson and Daniel Whitman, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Josiah Hill, the before named Executor.

 

Isaac Whitman, Gentleman, Benjamin Robinson, Yeoman, and Eleazer Keith, Gentleman, all of Bridgwater, were appointed to appraise the Estate of Jonathan Beal, late of Bridgwater, yeoman, on 6 Sept. 1813. The Inventory of the Estate of Mr Jonathan Beal, late of Bridgwater, dated 8 Nov. 1813, totaled $1527.34, including his homestead farm with 24 acres of land and the buildings valued at $1310, and 3 acres of land given to his sons valued at $67.50. Josiah Hill, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 7 Feb. 1814.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 45, pp. 84-85, 243-244, from FHL microfilm #0550903.

 

 

Will of Samuell Beall of Bridgewater, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1750) *

In The name of God Amen The Third of may in The Year of our Lord one Thousand Seven hundred and fifty I Samuell Beall of Bridgwater in ye. County of Plimouth in Newengland Black Smith Being in perfect mind but Sick in Boody: Yet Calling to mind ye. mortality of my body and Knowing That it is appointed for all men once to Dye Do make and ordain this my Last will and Testamt. That is to Say principally and first of all I Give and Recommend my Soule into the hands of God That Gave it and for my Boody I Commend it To The Earth to be Bured in a Christian like and Deceant manour at the Disscrection of my Executors hoping: at The Generall Reresection I Shall Receive The Same again by ye. mighty power of God and as Touching Such Worldly Estate Wherewith it hath pleased God To Bless me with in This Life I Give and Dispose of the Same in manor and form as falloweth viz. Impirmes I Give and Bequeath to mary my Dearly Beloved wife and also my Honnered mother in Law mary Baset a Decent and Comfertable maintenance out of my Estate so Long as thay Remain Widos: I also Give To my wife my chair and Tackling: With my wach to be at her Dispose.

Item I Give To my Grandson Samuell Beall ye Survieing Son of my Son Samuell Beall one Hundard pounds Lawfull money of New-England To be paid To him by my four Sons now Survieng that is To Say to be Equelly paid by them When he Comes of age –

Item I Give To my two Sons Nathanel Beall & Benjamin Beall my homested farm with all the Buldings belonging thair unto To be Eualy Divided Betwen them. Except my Smith Shop that I Give To my Son Nathan Beall With all Colles and apuertenances Thair unto belonging and ye Iron that is now in ye. Shop

Item I Give To my other two Sons Daniel Beall and Jonathan Beall all my other Lands with the Buldings Belonging thair unto to be Equaly Divided Betwen Them: I Give To my Son Daniel Beall the Debt That he ows me and allso ye. Wheel Write Tooles I give to my Son Jonathan Beall one Yoke of oxen and ox Cart when he Coms of age ~~

Item I Give To my Four Sons all My Movibles Within Door and withouth That are not allrady Disposed of To be Equely Divided Betwen Them. Item. Lastly I Do Constute ordain and apoint Nathan Beall and Daniel Beall my only and Sole Executors of This my Last will and Testement and Do hereby Uterly Disalow Revoke and Disanull all and Every other Testement wills Legessces Bequests and Executors by me in any ways Before This Time named willed and Bequeathed Ratifing and Confarming This and no Other To be my Last will and Testement in witness whereof I have hear unto Set my hand and Seal The Date above written

Signd Seald & Delivird in

                presents of                                                                                                            Samuell Beall                                    (seal)

David Kingman

Isaac Otis

Hugh Orr

 

Presented for probate on 21 May 1750, and proved by David Kingman and Isaac Otis, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Nathan Beall and Daniel Beall, the Executors in ye. same Will named.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 12, p. 178-179, from FHL microfilm #0551539.

 

 

Will of Austin Bearce of Halifax, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1764) *

                                In the Name of God Amen.

The thirtieth day of March A.D 1764 I Austin Bearce of Hallifax Cordwainer being sick & weak of Body but of perfect mind & memory calling to mind the mortality of my Body & knowing that it is appointed to all men once to die do make & ordain this my last will & Testament that is to say I first of all give & recommend my Soul to God who gave it & my body to the earth to be buried in decent christian burial at the discretion of my Execrs. nothing doubting but at the resurrection I shall receive the same by the mighty Power of God. & as to the worldly estate with which God hath been pleased to bless me I dispose of the same as follows viz. —

Imprimis. I give the widdow Mary Stockbridge a Tea Kettle—

Item. I give to my daughter Hannah a bed & to my daughter Lucy a Chest yt. which stands in the Bedroom. Item. I give to my four daughters the remainder of my household Goods & Furniture to be equally divided among them. Item. I give to my only Son Austin all the rest of my estate real & personal he discharging my debts & funeral charges & paying the following Legacies, viz, when he arrives at the age of twenty two Years to each of my daughters thirty pounds, what I have given them above (except Hannah,s bed & Lucy,s Chest) to be accounted as part of said sum. Likewise my will is that my Execrs. or his Guardian if my Son shall chuse one, put my Son at his expence three months in a Year – Yearly till he is twenty one Years of age, into a family where he may have the advantage of learning to write and Cypher &c~

Item. I hereby appoint Messrs. Anthony Waterman & Barnabas Briggs Excrs. of this my last will & Testament & I do hereby revoke & disannull all former wills Legacies & bequests by me made ratifying & Confirming this & no other to be my last will & Testament. In Witness where of I,ve hereunto Sett my hand & Seal the day & Year abovementioned. ~~                                                                                                                                                                                                       his

Signed sealed & declared by the sd. Austin                                                                      Austin + Bearce                               (seal)     

Bearce to be his last will & Testament                                                                                           mark                     

in Prescence of us. Ignatius Loring, Jacob Chipman & Wm. Stertevant

 

Presented for probate on 7 May 1764 by Anthony Waterman and Barnabas Briggs, the Excrs. therein named, and proved by Ignatius Loring and William Stertevant, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Barna. Briggs and Anthy. Waterman, the Executors.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 19, p. 60-61, from FHL microfilm #0550711.

 

 

Will of Ebenezer Bennet of Middleborough, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1750) *

In the Name of God Amen I Ebenezer Bennet of the Town of Middleborough in the County of Plimouth in New England being under maney Infermytys of Body there for Calling into mind the mortality of my Body & Knowing that is appointed for all men once to Die Do make and ordain this to be my Last Will and Testement—princepley and first of all I give and bequeath my Soul into the hands of god that gave it & my body I Recommend unto the Dust to be buried in Decent Christion buril at the Discrition of my Executor nothing Doughting but at the general reserection I Shall receive the Same again. &. as Touching Such Worldly Estate as it hath pleased God To bless me in the Life I Do Dispose of in the folowing manor and forme—

Imprimus my Will is that my Just Debts & funeral Charges Shall Be paid out of my personal Estate—

Item. I give and bequeath unto my Son Cornelas Bennet all my homested viz.- all my Two Lots of Land Whereon I now Dwell Lying in ye Little Lottemans purchase With the Buildings & fences Thereon Together With all my other Lands Wharesoever thay are or may befound and also all my part of the grist mill & priviledges in Namassaket river To him and his hairs and assigns for Ever he paying the Legacys that I Shall in this my Last Will and Testement Do order him to pay. Also I give unto my aforesd Son the Two Thirds of all my personal Estate after my Just Debts and funaral Charges are first paid out of the Same—

Item. I give and bequeath unto my Daughter Sarah Elmes one third of the vallue of all my aforesd – real Estate to Be paid unto her or hir heirs in money by my aforesd Son Cornelius Bennet With in four years after my Decease—also I give unto my aforesd Daughter the one third of my personall Estate after my Just Debts and funaral Charges are paid as above sd. & What of my personal Estate Shee has already received Shall be amounted in the aforesd. one third . .  and Lastely Will is that my aforesd Sone Cornelius Bennet Shall be the Executor of this my Last Will and Testement Thus hoping this my Last Will and Testement Will be Keept and performed according to ye True Intent and Meeaning thereof. Ø. in Testimony hereof I the aforesd Ebenezer Bennet have hereunto Set my hand and Seal this Eighth Day of December one Thousand Seven Hundred and fifty —  —  1750  —

Signed Sealed published pronounonced and Declared by

the sd Ebenezer Bennet to be his Last Will and                                                             Ebenezer Bennet

Testement in presents of us the Subscribers

Coombs Barrows

Jabes Thomas

Seth Tinkham

 

Exhibited for probated on Febr. 9th 1750, and proved by Combs Barrows and Jabes Thomas.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 12, p. 100-101, from FHL microfilm #0551539.

 

 

Will of Jacob Bennet of Middleborough, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1799) *

Know all men by these presents that I, Jacob Bennet of the Town of Middleborough in the County of Plymouth, in the Comonwealth of the Massachusetts, being weak of body yet of a sound & disposing memory & understanding, blessed be God for the same, yet knowing the mortality of my body and that it is appointed for all men once to die, do make & ordain this my last will & testament to be firm & inviolable forever

Imprimis – I Give and bequeath to my well beloved wife Hope, one third part of all my moveable estate, after my just debts & funeral charges are first paid out of the same—and further I give & bequeath to her my said wife the use & improvement of one third part of all my lands & buildings during her natural life ~

  Item.– I Give & bequeath to my son Nehemiah Bennet his heirs & assigns forever the following part of my farm in mad mare’s neck, so called, being the farm on which I heretofore dwelled & lyeth adjoining to the land of my said son Nehemiah, bounded, as followeth, beginning at a heap of stones by ye side of the pond called Porkscar pond eighteen rods southward from the line between the twelve mens purchase & the sixteen shilling purchase & from said heap of stones ranging south, eighty degrees easterly ‘till it comes to the high way between the house of my said son Nehemiah & the house now inhabited by my son Jacob, and then southward by the high way four rods to a heap of stones on the easterly side of the high way, and from thence ranging south seventy seven degrees easterly ‘till it comes to the brook called red brook, & thence down stream by said brook ‘till it comes to the place in said brook where the line to be described for Elkanah’s part crosses said brook, and then by said line south eighty three degrees & a quarter easterly ‘till it comes to the line of the land now owned by my said son Nehemiah, & then by his land northerly & westerly ‘till it comes to the aforesaid pond, & then by said pond to the bound first mentioned.–

  Item.– I Give and bequeath to my Son Elkanah Bennet his heirs & assigns forever the following part of my aforesaid farm vizt– bounded northerly from a long stone set in the ground on the easterly side of the high way one rod northward from the northerly end of the saw mill dam and from thence ranging south eighty three degrees & a quarter easterly crossing the brook above the saw mill dam & then on the same course by the line of the part above given to Nehemiah, and then by the land now owned by said Nehemiah ‘till it comes to the easterly end of my land & bounded easterly by the easterly end of my land & westerly by the high way & southerly by the line of the lot laid out for the use of the ministry from the high way to the easterly corner of said ministry lot, and then continuing the same course to the easterly end of my land – and further, I give & bequeath to my sd Son Elkanah Bennet his heirs & assigns forever, a Strip of land, on the westerly side of the high way, bounded, as follows, from the long stone set in the ground one rod northward from the north end of the saw mill dam above mentioned, from thence north eighty three degrees & quarter westerly across the high way to an apple tree in the most south west corner of the Orchard and then south Six degrees & a quarter westerly to the land now owned by my son Jacob Bennet junr–and then by said Jacob’s land eastward to the land now owned by Joseph Donham & then by said Donham’s land to the high way & then by the high way to the bound first mentioned, reserving three quarters of the saw mill dam & privileges for mill or mills & liberty for flowing from ye. twelfth day of September to ye. twelfth of April annually & liberty of a watering place for cattle &c. for my other sons to improve at all times as needful; the other quarter of my saw mill dam & priviledge as above, I hereby give and bequeath to my said Son Elkanah.~

   Item.– I Give & bequeath to my son Jacob Bennet junr. his heirs & assigns forever, the remaining part of my aforesaid farm vizt– bounded northerly and easterly by the land above or before given to my son Nehemiah & southerly by the land now owned by the said Jacob & the land before given to my son Elkanah, together with the buildings thereon; and also, one half of my Saw mill dam & privileges for mill or mills & liberty for flowing, as above expressed, he paying to my son Elisha Bennet of New Bedford Four Hundred Dollars, in the space of one year after my decease.–

   Item.– I Give and bequeath to my aforesaid son Elisha Bennet, the four hundred Dollars above mentioned, to be paid him by my aforesaid son Jacob in the space of one year after my decease.– And further, I give & bequeath to him my said Son Elisha Bennet his heirs & assigns forever, the following strips of Cedar Swamp, in the Swamp called black brook cedar swamp in the purchase called Snipituit purchase in said Middleborough, being part of the first lot in number in said swamp, and it being a strip on the southerly side of my part of sd. Lot and to extend the whole length of my part of said lot, and four rods & two feet & a half wide at the easterly end, and three rods & two feet & a half wide at the westerly end; I further give & bequeath to my aforesaid son Jacob his heirs & assigns forever a Strip of the aforesaid cedar swamp, being three rods & three feet & a half wide, the whole length of my part of the aforesaid lot, adjoining on the north side of the strip above given to said Elisha.–

   I further give & bequeath to my aforesaid son Elkanah Bennet his heirs & assigns forever a strip of the aforesaid cedar swamp, being two rods & twelve feet & a half wide, the whole length of my part of the aforesaid lot adjoining on the north side of the Strip above given to Jacob.

   I further give & bequeath to my aforesaid Son Nehemiah Bennet his heirs & assigns forever, all the remaining part of my part of said lot of cedar swamp.– I further give & bequeath to my said son Nehemiah his heirs & assigns forever, the other quarter part of my Saw mill dam & privileges as above expressed and also, I give & bequeath to him my said son Nehemiah his heirs & assigns forever, all my right, title & Interest (if any I have) in the undivided lands, Ponds &c. in the purchase, called the twelve mens purchase in said Middleborough.–

   Item.– I Give and bequeath to my Son John Bennet, his heirs & assigns forever, the following part of my homestead farm where I now dwell, with half my buildings thereon, bounded as follows – vizt– beginning at ye westerly line between the twentieth & the twenty first lots in the first allotments in the Six & twenty mens purchase in said Middleborough and from said bound ranging north thirty five degrees & three quarters east fifty eight rods & one third to the northerly corner of said land, formerly Morse’s & from thence north sixty degrees east, six rods & one third to the spring brook, then down stream by said brook two rods, thence north forty six degrees & a quarter west nine rods & one sixth part of a rod, thence north, eighty three degrees west, twenty nine rods & four fifth parts of a rod, thence north, ten degrees west through the Center of the new house thirteen rods to the middle of the land below said new house, and then through the middle of said lane, north seventy two degrees & a half east twenty two rods to the old house, thence from the north west corner of said old house north ten degrees west, nine rods & two thirds of a rod, thence north seventy one degrees & a half east, six rods & one third of a rod, thence north, sixty one degrees west to the line of Ebenezer Cox’s land & then eastward by the line of said Cox’s land ‘till it comes to ye land of Martha the wife of Nathan Darling, and then southward & eastward ‘till it comes to the land of Nathan Darling junr & then southward by the line of said Nathan Darling junr. his land to the highway, & then westward by the high way to the white oak tree which is the south easterly bound between the aforesaid twentieth & the twenty first lots & then by the line between said lots to the bound first mentioned, reserving land sufficient for a high way on the westerly end of ye. land that did formerly belong to said Jonathan Morse as reserved by the proprietors And further, I give & bequeath to my said son John Bennet, one half of my wood lot that I bought of Nichols Wood & others which lies adjoining to my homestead farm; and also one half of my piece of cedar swamp in the great cedar swamp in the six & twenty mens purchase; and my will is that my said son John pay to my daughter Hope, the wife of Nathaniel Leonard one Hundred Dollars, in the space of one year after my decease.–

   Item.– I Give and bequeath to my Son Thomas Bennet, his heirs & assigns forever all the remaining part of my homestead farm whereon I now dwell and the other half of my buildings thereon, and also the other half of my wood lot I bought of Nichols Wood & others; and also the other half of my piece of cedar swamp in the great cedar swamp in the six & twenty mens purchase; and my will is that, my said son Thomas pay to my daughter Hannah Bennett one Hundred Dollars, in the space of one year after my decease.–

  Item.– I Give and bequeath to my Daughter Hope, the wife of Nathaniel Leonard, one Hundred Dollars, to be paid to her by my son John as aforesaid, in the space of one year after my decease–

   Item.– I Give and bequeath to my Daughter Hannah Bennet, one Hundred Dollars, to be paid to her by my Son Thomas as aforesaid, in the space of one year after my decease; and further I give & bequeath to her my said daughter Hannah Fifty Dollars, to be paid to her out of my moveable estate, by my Executor hereafter mentioned; and my Will is, that my two sons John & Thomas afore-mentioned shall find horse room & fire wood at the door, and also to keep three sheep for her, summer & winter so long as she shall remain unmarried –

   Item.– I Give & bequeath all the Remainder of my moveable estate, after my just debts & funeral charges are first paid out of the same, to my Eight Children before mentioned– vizt– Nehemiah, Elkanah, Jacob, Hope, Elisha, John, Thomas & Hannah, to be equally divided between them; And I hereby Constitute and appoint my said son Nehemiah Bennet to be Executor to this my last will & testament. Thus hoping that this my last will & testament will be performed according to the true intent & meaning thereof, I commit my soul into the hands of God who gave it, and my body to the dust, to a decent burial.—In Witness whereof, I the said Jacob Bennet, have hereunto Set my hand & seal, this first day of May, One thousand, Seven hundred ninety & nine ~ — the words “with half the buildings thereon,” were interlined between the two last lines in the second page, before signing. —

Signed Sealed, Pronounced & Declared

by the said Jacob Bennet, as his last

will & testament in the presence of us                                                                             Jacob Bennet                                     (seal)

                Ebenezer Cox

                Benjamin Freeman

                Jeremiah Tinkham

 

Presented for probate on 6 Jan. 1800 by Nehemiah Bennet Esqr., the Executor therein named, and proved by Ebenezer Cox and Benjamin Freeman, two of the witnesses.

 

Isaac Thomson Esqr., Ebenezer Cox, and Sylvanus Tillson, Gentlemen, all of Middleborough, were appointed to appraise the estate of Jacob Bennet, late of Middleborough, yeoman, on 4 Dec. 1799. The Inventory was dated 7 Apr. 1800, and totaled $3419.57, including his homestead farm and buildings valued at $1500, and his farm and buildings in mad mare’s neck valued at $1350. Nemiah Bennet Esqr, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 10 Apr. 1800.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 37, pp. 191-194, 225-226, from FHL microfilm #0550719.

 

 

Will of Silvanus Bennet of Middleborough, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1808) *

  In the name of God amen I Silvanus Bennet of Middleborough in the County of Plymouth in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts Yeoman being something advanced in Years & labouring under some Infirmities of Body, but of a sound & disposing Mind & Memory blessed be God for the same, wherefore calling to mind the Mortality of my Body knowing that it is appointed to all men once to die, wherefore I do make & ordain this to be my last Will & Testament to remain firm & inviolable forever & first of all I give my Soul to God that gave it, & my Body to the dust to be buried in a decent Manner at the discretion of my Executor hereafter named in hopes of a glorious Resurrection, & as to such worldly Estate as I have been blessed with I do dispose of the same as followeth (viz.) –

        Imprimis I give & bequeath to my Brother William Bennet & to his Heirs & assigns forever all of my Lands that I own, that was formerly my Hond. Father Cornelius Bennet deceased’s, excepting a small piece lying between the mill ditch & River that I shall otherwise dispose of by this my last will, I also give to my said Brother William Bennet & to his Heirs & assigns forever, all of my part of the Dwelling house where he & I now dwell, & my part of the Land I purchased in company with him the said William of Jeremiah Thomas I also give to him the said William & to his Heirs & assigns forever the one half of all my personal Estate, excepting my Money on hand, & debts that shall be due to me at my decease on Notes or otherwise. The above particulars as I have mentioned them in their order, I give to my said Brother on Condition that he shall pay my Niece Christiana Morton wife of Nathaniel Morton one hundred Dollars at my decease & on condition that my said Brother William shall pasture one Cow each & every summer Season during the natural Life of him the said William for Silvanus Ling or his Heirs, he the said Silvanus & Christiana being Son & Daughter of my late Sister Theodate Miller deceased —

        Item I give & bequeath to my Brother Batchelor Bennet and to his Heirs & Assigns all of my wearing Apparel —

   Item I give & bequeath to my Sister Sally Wood & to her Heirs & assigns forever ten Dollars to be paid to her at my decease by my Executor out of my Money on hand or debts due to me –

        Item I give to my Nephew Jacob Bennet Son of my late Brother Ebenezer Livy Bennet & to his Heirs & assigns forever all of the Land that I purchased of Jephtha Ripley the House Barn & Land I purchased of Ebenezer Morton, & also all of the Land that I own that was formerly the Revd. Silvanus Conant deceased also my part of the Grist mill & Carding Machine with their appurtenances Also all my Lands lying between the Mill ditch & the River, also my part of a small house I purchased of my Brother William Bennet in Company with Silas Thomas– I also gives to the said Jacob Bennet, & to his Heirs & Assigns forever my part of a Pew in the women’s Gallery of the easterly precinct Meeting house in said Middleborough & also the one half of all my personal Estate excepting my Monies on hand & debts that shall be due to me at my decease on Note or otherwise the above particulars as I have mentioned them in their order I give to him the said Jacob Bennet on Condition that he shall pay to his three Sisters one hundred & fifty Dollars each, namely to pay his Sister Esther Bennet & Patience Bennet each one hundred & fifty Dollars & to Hannah Wilder wife of Nathaniel Wilder junr. one hundred & fifty Dollars —

        Item I give & bequeath to my Nephew Gershom Wood & to his Heirs & Assigns forever all of the Lands that I purchased of the Heirs of Joshua Spooner late of Brookfield deceased ten Dollars in Money to be paid by my Executor out of my Money or debts due to me & also all of my part of a Lot of Cedar Swamp that I purchased in company with Zechariah Weston Abner Barrows junr. & the said Gershom Wood of William Thomson Esqr.

        Item I give & bequeath to my Nephews Wilkes Wood Esqr. & Horatio Wood & to my Nieces Sally Haskell & Theodate Wood all Children of my Sister Sally Wood & to their Heirs & Assigns forever each of them ten Dollars to be paid to them respectively by my Executor out of my Money or debts due to me —

        Item after my just debts, Funeral Charges the Expence of settling my Estate & the before mentioned Legacies which are to be paid out of my Money & debts due to me are first paid My Will is & I do hereby give & bequeath to my Nephew Cornelius Bennet Son of my Brother Batchelor Bennet & to his Heirs & Assigns forever one third part of all my Monies on hand & debts due to me on note or otherwise on Condition that he shall pay to his Sisters Ruth Silvester, Mary Francis, Priscilla Morton, Abigail Jones & Theodate Bennet, each of them thirty Dollars —

        Item after my just debts funeral charges the Expence of settling my Estate & the before mentioned Legacies which are to be paid out of my Money on hand & debts due to me, are first paid my will is & I do hereby give & bequeath to my Nephew James Russell Son of my late Sister Christiana Russell late of Nantucket deceased & to his Heirs & Assigns forever one third part of all my Money on hand & debts due to me on Note or otherwise on Condition that he shall pay to his Sisters Sally Russell & Theodate Russell each of them, one hundred Dollars —

        Item I give & bequeath to my Nephews Philip Bennet & Zephaniah Bennet Sons of my Brother Ebenezer Livy Bennet & to their Heirs & assigns forever the other third part of all my Monies on hand & debts due to me on Note or otherwise in equal halves after my just debts, funeral Charges – the Expence of settling my Estate & the Legaises to be paid out of my Money & Debts due to me are first paid —

        Item I give & bequeath to my three Nieces namely Esther Bennet, Hannah Wilder wife of Nathaniel Wilder junr. & Patience Bennet Daughters of my late Brother Ebenezer Livy Bennet & to their Heirs & Assigns forever, each of them one hundred & fifty Dollars To be paid to them at my decease by their Brother Jacob Bennet —

        Item I give and bequeath to my Nieces Ruth Silvester, Mary Francis, Priscilla Morton Abigail Jones & Theodate Bennet Daughters of my Brother Batchelor Bennet & to their Heirs & Assigns forever each of them thirty Dollars to be paid to them respectively at my decease by their Brother Cornelius Bennet—

        Item I give & bequeath to my Nieces Sally Russell & Theodate Russell & to their Heirs & assigns forever each of them one hundred Dollars to be paid to them respectively by their Brother James Russell all of them being Children of my late Sister Christiana Russell late of Nantucket deceased to be paid at my decease —

        Item I give & bequeath to my Nephew Silvanus Ling the pasturing of a Cow in the Summer Season of each year during the natural Life of my Brother William Bennet to be found by said William Bennet said Silvanus being Son of my late Sister Theodate Miller deceased —

        Item I give & bequeath to my Niece Christiana Morton Daughter of my late Sister Theodate Miller deceased & to her Heirs & assigns forever one hundred Dollars to be paid to her at my decease by my Brother William Bennet —

        And I do hereby revoke all former Wills made by me —

        Lastly my Will is & I do hereby appoint my Friend Isaac Thomson Esqr. Sole Executor to this my last will & Testament,—  Thus hoping that this my last Will & Testament will be kept & performed according to the true Intent & meaning there of I the before named Silvanus Bennet have hereunto set my hand & Seal this twenty first day of June in the Year of our Lord Eighteen hundred & eight–

Signed sealed published pronounced & declared

by the aforenamed Silvanus Bennet to be

his last Will & Testament in presence of us.

                Silas Thomas                                                                                                       Silvanus Bennet                                (seal)

                Mary Thomas

                William Littlejohn.

 

Presented for probate on 16 March 1809 by Isaac Thomson Esqr. the Executor therein named, and proved by Silas Thomas and William Littlejohn, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Isaac Thomson Esqr. the before named Executor.

 

Thomas Sproat, William Bourne and Abner Barrow junr., all of Middleborough, Gentlemen, were appointed to appraise the Estate of Silvanus Bennet, late of Middleborough, Yeoman, on 16 Mar. 1809. The Inventory of the Estate both Real & personal of Silvanus Bennet, late of Middleboro’, dated 21 Mar. 1809, totaled $12,268.89, which included his land and buildings he gave to his Brother William Bennet valued at $1340, his land, buildings, part of a Gristmill, part of a Carding Machine and part of a pew that he gave his Nephew Jacob Bennet valued at $3646, his lands and swamp that he gave his nephew Gorham [sic] Wood valued $1130, and $6388.80 in money and securities for money. Isaac Thomson Esqr., the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 13 Apr. 1809.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 42, p. 487-490, from FHL microfilm #0550902.

 

 

Will of William Bennet of Middleborough, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1809) *

   In the name of God amen I William Bennet of Middleboro. in the County of Plymouth in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts yeoman being advanced in Years & under Infirmities of Body, but of a sound Mind & Memory, Blessed be God for the same, wherefore calling to mind the Mortality of my Body knowing that it is appointed to all men once to die, I do make and ordain this to be my last Will and Testament, to remain firm & inviolable forever principally and first of all, I give my Soul to God that gave it and my Body to the Dust to be buried in a decent manner at the Discretion of my Friends & Executor hereafter named trusting that the same will be raised again at the General Resurrection and as to such worldly Estate as I have been blessed with I do dispose of the same as followeth (viz)

 Imprimis I give and bequeath to my Brother Batchelor Bennet & to his Heirs & assigns forever all of the money he is indebted to me ~~

   Item I give and bequeath to Philip Bennet Son of my late Brother Ebenezer Livy Bennet and to his Heirs & Assigns forever, all of the Lands that I now own that my Hond. Father Cornelius Bennet late of said Middleboro. Gentleman deceased died seized of; also all of my Field that lieth north easterly of the Highway, that passeth by my Dwelling house, which said Field I purchased of my said Hond Father, also all of my Land that I purchased of James Sproat of said Middleboro. Shop joiner; Also all of my Lot of woodland that I purchased in Company with my late Brother Silvanus Bennet deceased, of Jeremiah Thomas including my Dwelling house and all other Buildings standing on any of the above described Lands, also all of my personal Estate excepting my Money, Bank Stock & Debts due to me in Notes or otherways I also give unto the said Philip Bennet and his Heirs the use & Improvement of my Lands Buildings and Potash that I purchased of Andrew Leonard, during the Life time of Silvanus Ling Son of my late Sister Theodate Miller deceased, excepting, that if in Case the said Ling (who now lives on & improves said Land Buildings & Potash that I purchased of said Leonard) shall choose to continue to live on and improve them himself in that case my Will is & I do order that said Ling shall continue to live on & have the use & improvement of said Lands Buildings & Potash purchased of said Leonard free from any rent, so long as he shall like so to improve them himself, but not for any other purpose; The above Lands Buildings & personal Estate as I have given them in their order to said Philip Bennet, I give on condition, that he or his Heirs shall well & truly pasture one Cow well for said Ling on the Lands I have given the said Philip or where it shall be as agreeable to said Ling each & every Season for pasturing Creatures, during the natural Life, of him the said Ling, And also in case the said Philip Bennet or his Heirs shall well and truly pay to Zephaniah Bennet another Son of said Ebenezer Livy Bennet one hundred & fifty dollars in Money at my decease. –

        Item I give and bequeath to Zephaniah Bennet Son of my said Brother Ebenr. Livy Bennet and to his Heirs and Assigns forever all of my Lands that I purchased of Thomas Long also all of my Lands that I purchased of George Leonard & also one hundred & fifty Dollars in Money to be paid to him by Philip Bennet –

        Item I give and bequeath to Patience Bennet Daughter of my said Brother Ebenezer L. Bennet, the use & Improvement of all of my Stock that I own in Plymouth Bank during her natural Life, on Condition that she shall always have some discreet person as a Guardian for her, to manage & take Care of said Stock for her best use –

        Item I give and bequeath to Esther Bennet Daughter of my said Brother Ebenezer Livy Bennet & to Ruth Silvester Daughter of my said Brother Bachelor Bennet & each of their Heirs and Assigns forever four hundred Dollars to be equally divided between them & to be paid out of my Money on hand & debts due to me –

        Item I give and bequeath to Silvanus Ling Son of my late Sister Theodate Miller deceased the pasturing of one Cow each Summer Season of pasturing Creatures during his natural Life, said pasturing to be found by Philip Bennet or his Heirs as before described. I also give unto the said Silvanus Ling the use & Improvement of the Lands Buildings & Potash that I purchased of Andrew Leonard, for him to improve free of rent during his natural Life in case he shall live on & improve them himself, but I do not give him said Improvement for any other purpose –

        Item I give and bequeath to all of the Children or Heirs at Law of the said Silvanus Ling and to their Heirs and assigns forever, at the Decease of the said Ling all of the Lands Buildings and Potash, that I purchased of said Andrew Leonard to be equally divided between them the said Children or their legal Representatives. –

        Item after my just debts, funeral Charges, the Expence of settling my Estate & the before named Legacies are first paid, I give and bequeath to the following Children of my said Brother Batchelor Bennet viz to Cornelius Bennet, Ruth Silvester, Mary Francis, Abigail Jones, Priscilla Morton & Theodate Bennet & to the follow Children of my Brother Ebenezer Livy Bennet (viz) Zephaniah Bennet, Esther Bennet & Hannah Wilder and to the following Children of my late Sister Christiana Russell deced. namely James Russell Theodate Russell & Sally Russell and to the following Children of my Sister Sally Wood namely Wilkes Wood Esqr., Gershom Wood, Horatio Gates Wood, Sally Haskell and Theodate Wood and also to Christiana Morton, Daughter of my Sister Theodate Miller deceased, and to each of their Heirs & Assigns forever in equal proportion all of the remaining part and Residue of my Estate both real & personal of every sort including the Reversion of my Stock in Plymouth Bank for them to come into possession of at the decease of the before named Patience Bennet –

        Lastly my Will is and I do hereby appoint my Friend Isaac Thomson Esqr sole Executor to this my last Will and Testament—         and I do revoke & disannul all former Wills made by me – Thus hoping that this my last Will & Testament will be kept and performed according to the true Intent & meaning of it, I the before named William Bennet have hereunto set my hand & seal this first day of November in the Year of our Lord Eighteen hundred and nine

Signed sealed published, pronounced & declared

by the said William Bennet to be his last

Will & Testament in presence of us                                                                                 William Bennet                                 (seal)

        William Litteljohn

        Abner Barrows junr.

        Jacob Barrows –

 

Presented for probate on 1 Jan. 1810 by Isaac Thomson Esqr., the Executor therein named, and proved by William Littlejohn, Abner Barrows junr. and Jacob Barrows, all the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Isaac Thomson Esqr. the before named Executor.

 

Thomas Sproat, Majr. William Bourne, and James Sproat, all of Middleborough, Gentlemen, were appointed to appraise the Estate of William Bennet, late of Middleborough, Yeoman, on 1 Dec. 1809. The Inventory of all the Estate both real & personal of William Bennet, late of Middleboro, Yeoman, was dated 9 Dec. 1809, and totaled $13,732.28. His personal estate, valued at $9157.58, included $8240.33 in money, bank stock and notes. His real estate, which totaled $4574.70, included his home farm valued at $2071, and several other properties. The appraisers gave their oath on 9 Dec. 1809 before Isaac Thomson, Justice of the Peace, and Isaac Thomson Esqr., the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 1 Jan. 1810 before J. Thomas, the Judge of Probate.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 43, p. 84-87, from FHL microfilm #0550902.

 

 

Will of Asa Benson of Middleborough, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1829) *

        In the Name of God, Amen – I Asa Benson of Middleborough in the County of Plymouth and Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Yeoman, being in good health and perfect memory, but calling to mind the mortality of the body, do make, ordain and declare this Instrument to be my last Will and Testament – revoking all others made by me – in manner following, viz:

        Imprimis. I give and bequeath to my beloved wife Drusilla Benson the use of all my house-hold goods and indoor moveables during her natural life.

        Item – I give and bequeath to my sons Ansil Benson, Asa Benson Jr, Consider Benson, and William Benson, One hundred dollars each, to be paid in two years after my decease, by my Sons Alonzo, Ebenezer and Sumner, agreeable to one of the considerations in my deed to them of equal date with this instrument ~

        Item – I give and bequeath to my daughter Cynthia, the wife of Thomas Atwood one fourth part of all my household furniture after the decease of my said wife.

        Item – I give and bequeath to my daughter Eliza, the wife of Joseph Benson one half part of all my household furniture after the decease of my said wife.

        Item – I give and bequeath to my daughter Mary Benson, it being towards her support, one fourth part of all my household furniture after the decease of my said wife – and also her support during her natural life, to be furnished by my sons Alonzo, Ebenezer and Sumner, agreeable to one of the considerations in my deed to them bearing even date with this instrument.

        Item – I give and bequeath to my said sons Alonzo T. Benson, Ebenezer Benson and Sumner Benson, all my other personal estate of every name and nature, wheresoever the same may be found, they paying all my just debts and funeral charges.

        Lastly I do constitute and appoint my son Alonzo T. Benson sole Executor of this my last Will and Testament, hoping the same may be kept.

                        In Testimony Whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this fourth day of July in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and twenty nine.

                                                                                                                                                Asa Benson                        (seal)

        Signed, sealed, published and declared by the above-named Asa Benson to be his last Will and Testament, in the presence of us, who at his request and in his presence, have hereunto subscribed our names as witnesses to the same.

        Seth Miller Jr

        Joshua LeBaron

        Polly Ward

 

Presented for probate on the first Tuesday of Nov. 1836 by Alonzo T. Benson, the Executor therein named, and proved by Seth Miller Jr and Joshua LeBaron, two of the witnesses. Letters Testamentary were granted to Alonzo T. Benson, the Executor.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 78, p. 446-448, from FHL microfilm #0555264.

 

 

Will of Caleb Benson of Middleborough, Plymouth County, Massachusetts Bay (1782) *

In the Name of God Amen—I. Caleb Benson of Middleborough in the county of Plymouth & Commonwealth of Massachusetts in America being weak of body, but of sound mind and memory, blessed be God therefor and knowing it is appointed unto all men once to die do make & ordain this my Last will & testament—In the first place I commit my spirit into the hands of the Lord God of truth, believing and hoping he hath redeemed me, and that at my death my soul shall immediately pass into Glory, and my body to the dust, to be buried in a decent christian manner, hoping and believing that tho’ after my skin worms destroy this body, yet in my Flesh I shall see God, and that I shall with them that rise first have a resurrection to Life my vile body being changed and fashioned Like to the Glorious body of christ—and as touching the portion of worldly estate which God in his providence has been pleased to bless me with, I dispose of in the following manner. ~

Imprimis – I Give and bequeath unto my beloved wife the one third of my whole estate, both real & personal, to be improved by her during her natural Life, and over and above the one third, two milch Cows, ten sheep, and all my houshold furniture forever. –

Item—I Give and bequeath unto my two daughters, Ruth Landers and Hannah Tinkham three pounds each, to be paid out of my personal estate, besides what I Gave them at the time of their beginning to keep house. –

Item—I Give and bequeath unto my other three daughters – vizt Priscilla Combes, Deborah Canady & Content Barrows, all the rest of my personal estate, consisting of money at Interest, Live Stock on my farm &c. excepting what is disposed of above, to be equally divided between them as soon as it can be collected by my Executor and paid to them

Item—I Give and bequeath unto my two Grand Children Priscilla Washburn and Manassah Washburn Six Shillings a piece to be paid by my beloved wife. –

Item—I Give and bequeath unto my only Son Caleb Benson all the rest of my Interest, consisting of Lands and meadow Lying in Middleborough Plymton and Wareham being all real estate –

Finally – my will is that my well beloved wife and my Son Caleb Benson be the joint Executors of this my Last will and testament — and furthermore I do hereby revoke and renounce all and every other and former wills and testament by me any way made, and ratify and confirm this to be my Last will and testament. ~

Signed Sealed, pronounced and declared

this 27th day of November 1782 in presence

of —                                                                                                                                       Caleb Benson                                    (seal)

                Asa Hunt

                Elisha Benson

                Stephen Washburn

 

Presented for probate on 2 June 1788 by Caleb Benson, one of the Executors therein named, and proved by Asa Hunt and Elisha Benson, two of the witnesses. Deborah Benson the other executor in said will named having refused ye said trust, Letters Testamentary were granted to Caleb Benson.

 

To the Honble Joseph Cushing esqr. Judge for the Probate of wills &c within & for the county of Plymouth—Whereas I the Subscriber am appointed one of the Executors to the Last will & testament of my husband Caleb Benson Late of Middleborough, yeoman deceased, and by reason of my advanced age and infirmities of body am incapable of acting in said capacity, therefore pray to be excused from serving therein, and do accordingly refuse the trust aforesaid

Middleborough June ye. 2d. 1788 –                                                                                  Deborah Benson

 

Benja. Briggs of Wareham, School master, Ichabod Benson of Middlebo. yeoman, and William Washburn of Plymton yeoman, were appointed to appraise the estate of Caleb Benson, late of Middlebo., yeoman, on 2 June 1788. The Inventory of the Goods Chattells, Rights & Credits of Caleb Benson, Late of Middleborough, dated 28 July 1788, totaled £673.8.67, including his homestead land, meadows and buildings valued at £530. Caleb Benson, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 1 Sept. 1788.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 30, pp. 362-363, 418-419, from FHL microfilm #0550716.

 

 

Will of John Benson of Middleborough, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1846) *

                In the name of God Amen  I John Benson of Middleborough in the County of Plymouth and Commonwealth of Massachusetts Yeoman, being in good health, of sound mind and perfect memory, do this twenty-first day of February in the year of our Lord One thousand Eight hundred and forty six, make and publish this my last Will and Testament in manner following to wit.

First I give and bequeath to my daughter Mercy Benson all my Household Furniture and indoor moveables with I may leave at my decease to her own use and behoof forever, I do also give her the use and improvement of the East room on the lower floor, of my dwelling house, and the bedroom which opens out of the kitchen, so long as she remains single. It is also my Will and I hereby order that my son Stillman Benson shall take my said daughter Mercy Benson to board with him in and as one of his own family, and see that she is well provided for in sickness and health – And that he shall further give her Eight dollars a year to enable her to procure such things as she most wants untill her marriage day. But in case of her marriage she from that time relinquishes all right in the house hold and provisions as well as the Eight dollars per year

  I give to my said son Stillman Benson all and singular the rest and residue of my Estate both Real and Personal, or mixd which I may leave at my decease wheresoever the same may be found, and also the reversion of that part of my dwelling house which is above temporarily given to my daughter.

And lastly I do constitute and appoint my said son Stillman Benson sole Executor to this my last Will and testament, hereby directing him spedily to pay all my Just debts and funeral charges

  In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal the day and year above written

                                                                                                                                                John Benson                      (seal)

Signed, sealed and declared by the said John Benson as his last will and testament in presence of us, who at his request and in his presence hereunto set our names as witnesses.

                Samuel P Keith

                William Nelson

                Susannah Nelson

 

Presented for probate on the first Tuesday of Aug. 1848 by Stillman Benson, the Executor therein named, and proved by Samuel P. Keith and William Nelson, two of the witnesses.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 90, p. 301-302, from FHL microfilm #0555639.

 

 

Will of Samuel Benson of Middleborough, Plymouth County, Massachusetts Bay (1778) *

In the Name of God Amen. I Samuel Benson of Middleborough in the County of Plymouth & State of Massachusetts Bay being weak of body but of sound mind & memory, blessed be God therefor, and calling to mind the mortality of my body, knowing it is appointed unto all men once to die, to make & ordain this my Last Will & testament, and in the first place I commit my spirit to God who Gave it & my body to the dust to be decently buried, and as to the worldly Estate which God has been pleased to bless me with I dispose of in the following manner vizt –

Imprimis—I Give and bequeath unto my well Beloved wife One third part of my personal Estate –

Item—I Give and bequeath unto my two Sons Consider Benson and John Benson to be owned equally between them one Lot of Land containing about Forty five Acres in the south purchase in Middleborough, said Lot Joining westward on Joshua Raymonds Land and Eastward on the Land belonging to Widow Bartlett & Stephen Washburn, and my Will is that my said Sons Consider and John shall pay unto my five daughters twenty six pounds thirteen shillings & four pence, to each an equal sum that is to say to each daughter five pounds six shillings & eight pence. also my Will is that my said two sons shall have all my wearing apparell and that they pay their five Sisters each an equal part of such a sum as the Cloth shall be appraised at, I also bequeath unto my said Sons Consider and John ten shillings a piece to come out of my moveable Estate

Item—I Give unto my five daughters, namely Patience the widow of George Barrows, Lydia the wife of Henry Wood, Jemima the wife of John Norris, Faith the wife of John Thomas, & Hope the wife of Joshua Briggs all the rest of my Estate that is not before disposed of after my Just debts and funeral charges are paid, to be equally divided among them, whether consisting of money, or notes of hand, Book debts, Cattle & sheep, farming utensills, or any other and every other outdoor and indoor moveables

Finally—I do ordain and appoint my two sons, Consider Benson & John Benson to be the Executors of this my Last Will and testament. In confirmation hereof I have hereunto set my hand & seal this twentieth day of April One thousand, seven hundred & Seventy Eight

  Signed, Sealed, pronounced and

   declared in presence of ~                                                                                                                Samuel Benson                                 (seal)

                Caleb Benson

                Ezra Muxom

                Asa Hunt ~

 

Presented for probate on 5 Oct. 1778 by Consider Benson and John Benson, the Executors therein named, and proved by Caleb Benson and Asa Hunt, two of the witnesses.

No inventory of the estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 25, p. 85-86, from FHL microfilm #0550713.

 

 

Will of James Berthrong of Cazenovia, Madison County, New York (1849) *

I James Berthrong, of Cazenovia in the County of Madison and State of New York, being of sound and discriminating mind and memory, do make and publish this (consisting of one Sheet) my last Will & Testament, hereby disposing of All my Estate, both real & personal.

        My Real Estate consists of the dwelling house & lot now occupied by myself and family as a residence, situate on the South side of Albany Street in the village of Cazenovia bounded north by Albany Street; East by a lot owned by William M Burr, and West by the House lot of John Williams A farm of thirty two acres of land situated on the east side of the road running from the dwelling house of Gaylord Phinney in said village north past the dwelling House of Joseph Dewey, and bounded west by said road; north by lands of said Joseph Dewey; East by lands of Hezekiah Loomis, and South in part by lands of John Hearsey. And a Wood Lot of Seven and a half acres called the Porter Lot, and bounded north by Sidney Roberts land: East by J. W. Chappels land, South by land belonging to the Shelter Valley Factory Company, and west by Joseph Williams land ~ All in said town of Cazenovia

        My Personal Estate consists mainly of household furniture Cattle, horses, Carriages, harnesses, hay, grain, farming utensils, money, obligations due me &c.

        All which, and whatever other real or personal Estate I may die seized of, after the payment of my debts, I Give Devise and Bequeath to my wife and children as follows.

First I give and bequeath unto my daughter Jane E Shapley the sum of three Hundred and twenty Seven dollars, to be paid to her by my Executers out of my personal property within one Year after my decease, with interest thereon after my decease till paid. Which, with the sum of One Hundred & Seventy three dollars heretofore advanced to her by me, will make the aggregate sum of Five Hundred dollars which I design as her portion of my Estate.

Second

        After the payment of said legacy to my said daughter Jane E. and the payment & Satisfaction of all just debts due and owing by me at the time of my decease, out of my personal Estate, All the rest and residue of my said personal estate, and All of my real estate of which I may die seized, I Give, Devise and Bequeath to my beloved Wife Clarissa Berthrong during her natural life, and after her decease all the rest, residue and remainder of my said real & personal Estate, I Give, Devise and Bequeath unto my Son Lucius W. Berthrong and to his heirs and assigns forever. And it is my desire that my said Son Lucius W. should occupy and Enjoy the use of the said real & personal property jointly and Equally with my said wife Clarissa during her said natural life, provided he so conducts himself as to make it agreeable to his said mother for him so to occupy and Enjoy the same, and She shall freely give her consent thereto, but not otherwise.  And he, the said Lucius W. is not to Sell or dispose of any of said personal estate during the life time of my Said wife, without her consent freely given.

Lastly

        I hereby Constitute & Appoint my said Wife Clarissa Executrix, and my said Son Lucius W. Executer of this my last Will & Testament; and desire that they should Execute said trust without giving bonds or Sureties for the performance thereof.

        In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand & Seal the thirty first day of August in the Year of our Lord One thousand Eight hundred and forty nine.

                                                                                                                                                James Berthrong                             (seal)

The Above instrument consisting of one sheet, was at the date thereof signed Sealed & published by the said James Berthrong as and for his last Will & Testament, in presence of us, who at his request & in his presence and in presence of Each other, have subscribed our names as Witnesses thereunto

H. G. Paddock    residing at Cazenovia, Madison County N.Y.

W. Jerome Hough   do     do       do             do         do       do

 

Lucius W. Berthrong, one of the Executors of the last Will & Testament of James Berthrong, late of Cazenovia, presented the will for probate on 18 Dec. 1850, and it was proved by H. G. Paddock and W. Jerome Hough both of the town of Cazenovia on 18 Dec. 1850.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Madison County Probate Will Book D, p. 29-32, and Madison County Estate File #1424, which has a readable copy of the will.

 

 

Will of Lucius W. Berthrong of Cazenovia, Madison County, New York (1864) *

                I Lucius W. Berthrong of Cazenovia in the County of Madison and State of New York do make and publish this my last will and testament as follows to wit.

                I grant and devise unto my wife Sarah the use and occupancy during her natural life of the house and lot now occupied by me situated on the south side of Albany Street in the village of Cazenovia, and from and after the death of my said wife I devise the same unto my sister Jane E. Shapley and to her heirs and assigns forever

                I grant and devise all the rest residue and remainder of my real estate unto my wife Sarah and to my sister Jane E. Shapley and to their heirs and assigns forever share and share alike.

                I give and bequeath unto my said wife Sarah all of my personal estate of every description, after the payment of my just debts,

                The foregoing provisions are intended to be in lieu of any claim of dower to my said wife, and are subject to the interest of my mother in the said property under the last will and testament of my father.

                I constitute and appoint my said wife Sarah Berthrong sole executrix of this my last will and testament.

                In witness whereof I hereunto set my hand and seal this thirteenth day of April in the year of Our Lord one thousand eight hundred and sixty four.

                                                                                                                                                L. W. Berthrong                                (seal)

The above instrument was declared by Lucius W. Berthrong to be his last will and testament and signed and sealed by him in our presence who have hereunto set our names in the presence of each other and of said testator and at the request of said testator, this thirteenth day of April 1864

                Chas Stebbins Jr.                  }                             

                L. D. Coburn                        }                              of Cazenovia N.Y.

 

Proved and approved on 11 July 1864.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Madison County Probate Estate File #2393.

 

 

Will of Daniel Birdsall of Oyster Bay, Queens County, Province of New York (1736) *

In the Name of God, Amen, the seventeenth day of September Annoq. Dom. seventeen hundred thirty and six, I, Daniel Birdsall of the Township of Oyster bay in Queens County in the Province of New York Weaver being sick and infirm in Body but of sound and perfect Mind and Memory thanks be given unto God, therefore but calling to Mind the Frailty of Human Nature and remembering that it is appointed for all men once to Die do therefore make this my last Will and Testament in manner following that is to say principally and first of all I resign my Soul into the Hands of a merciful God that gave it and my Body I recommend to the Earth to be buried in a decent and Christian like manner at the Discretion of my Executors hereafter named and as to the worldly Estate it hath pleased God in his great Goodness to bestow upon me and bless me with in this Life, I give and dispose of the same as followeth Vizt Imprimis my will is that my affectionate Wife Joannah shall have the sole property and Command of whatsoever she brought me at the time of our Marriage and in the next place my will is that all my Estate whatsoever both Real & Personal shall be sold and converted into money and out of the product my just Debts and funeral Expenses to be paid & discharged and the Remainder to be put to Interest for the Benefit of my Family my wife to have the Interest of the whole Money for the first two years after it is so put out and half the Interest thereof for the next three years and the equal third part thereof so long as she remains my widow and the Remaining two thirds part of the said money my will is that the same shall remain at Interest for the use and benefit of my surviving Children to be divided amongst them according to the following Proportion Vizt That my sons which I shall leave behind me shall each of them have just twice as much as one of my Daughters and that each of my Daughters shall have just half as much as one of my Sons only that my eldest Daughter Sarah shall have the sum of Five pounds Current money of New York over & above her ordinary share as abovesaid which said portions or Legacies my will is that the same be paid to them according to the above proportion out of the common stock as it shall then be to each of them respectively when they arrive at the age of twenty one years and if any or either of my said Children should happen to die under age or without Issue or without disposing of their respective part My will is that the same be divided amongst the surviving Brothers and Sisters according to the above proportion. And further my Will is that at time of the Marriage of my said widow the Remaining third part (of which to that time my aforesaid wife is to receive the profits or at the time of her Death) that the same be likewise divided amongst my surviving Children according to the above Proportion. My will further is and I do hereby order and appoint that my affectionate Wife Joannah and my Trusty Friends John Cock and Joshua Cock shall be the Executors of this my last will and Testament And I do hereby utterly disallow revoke make null and void all and every other former Wills Testaments Legacies and Executors by me in any manner of way before this time named willed or bequeathed hereby ratifying and confirming this and no other to be my last Will and Testament. In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my Hand and seal the day and year above written

                                                                                                                                Daniel Birdsall                                    (seal)

Signed Sealed published and declared by the said Daniel Birdsall as his last Will and Testament in the presence of us the subscribers Vizt.

                                                                                                                                Wm Moyles

                                                                                                                                John Carman

Exr.                                                                                                                         Jotham Townsend

 

Probated on 9 May 1744, and Letters of Administration granted to Johanna Birdsall, Joshua Cock, and John Cock, the Executors.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from New York County Probate, Vol. 15, p. 203-205, copied from original Liber 15, p. 209-212.

 

 

Will and Codicil of John Birdsal of Hempstead, Queens County, Province of New York (1764) *

In the name of God Amen I John Birdsal of Hempstead in Queens County in the Colony of New York being weak in body but of sound mind and memory blessed be God do make and publish this my last Will and Testament in manner following that is to say principally and first of all I recommend my Soul into the hands of God who gave it and my body to the Earth to be buried in a decent and Christian like Manner at the discretion of my Executors and as for such Worldly Estate wherewith it hath pleased God to bless me in this Life I give bequeath and dispose of the same in the following manner that is to say first I give and bequeath unto my beloved Wife Elizabeth Birdsal the sum of two hundred Pounds out of my movable and Personal Estate to be paid to her Executors Administrators or assigns within Six months after my Decease in Lieu of her Dower and In Case she shall refuse to Accept thereof and shall insist on her Dower then and in such case I give and bequeath the said sum of two hundred Pounds unto my six Sons Thomas John Joshua Benjamine Joseph & Samuel to be equally divided among them  also I give and bequeath unto my aforesaid Six Sons the sum of one hundred pounds out of my Personal and moveable Estate together with all my Utensils of husbandry to be equally divided among them also I give and bequeath unto my son Samuel the young Horse and the Saddle he now makes use of  also I give and bequeath unto my three Daughters Elizabeth Deborah and Mary all the whole residue and remaining part of all my goods Chattels Personal and moveable Estate of what kind or nature Soever or whatsoever to be equally divided among them after all my Just debts and funeral Expences are first paid out of the said Residue also I order and direct that all my whole Real Estate of what kind or nature soever or wheresoever be Sold by my Executors hereinafter named or by the Survivors of Survivor of them and I do hereby give them and the Survivors and Survivor of them full power and Authority to make Sale thereof accordingly and all the monies arising by Such Sale I order to be disposed of in the following manner that is to say first that my Son Benjamine shall have and receive out of the said moneis the sum of one hundred Pounds to his own proper Use Benefit and behoof, Secondly that my Son Joseph shall have and receive out of the said monies the sum of two hundred Pounds to his own proper Use benefit and behoof  Thirdly that my Son Samuel shall have and receive out of the said monies the sum of two hundred Pounds to his own proper use benefit and behoof and all the Residue and Remaining part of all the monies arising by such Sale as aforesaid I order and direct to be equally divided among my aforesaid six Sons, to wit Thomas John Benjamine Joshua Joseph and Samuel to their and each of their own proper use benefit and behoof,  Lastly I make and ordain my Sons Thomas John and Benjamine and my Son in Law William Smith Executors of this my last Will and Testament, In Witness whereof I the said John Birdsal have to this my last Will and Testament set my hand and Seal this thirteenth day of February in the year of our Lord Christ one thousand seven hundred and Sixty four.

                                                                                                                                                John Birdsall                                     (seal)

Signed Sealed Published and Declared by the said John Birdsal as and for his last Will and Testament in the presence of us

Thomas Seaman

George Weekes

Parmenas Jackson

 

I John Birdsal of Hempstead in Queens County in the Colony of New York being weak in body but of sound mind and memory blessed be God to make and publish this Codicil to my last Will and Testament in manner following that is to say whereas in my said last Will and Testament dated the thirteenth day of February in the year of our Lord Christ one thousand seven hundred and Sixty four I have given and bequeathed unto my Son Samuel the one equal Sixth part of the sum of two hundred Pounds in case his Mother my Wife Elizabeth Birdsal shall refuse to accept thereof in Lieu of her Dower also one equal sixth part of the sum of one hundred Pounds to be taken out of my moveable and Personal Estate and also the one equal Sixth part of the Residue of all the monies that shall or may arise from the Sale of my Real Estate after the Particular Legacies directed to be paid out of the said monies shall be satisfied and discharged now I Declare it to be my Will that in Case his Mother my aforesaid Wife Elizabeth shall refuse to accept of what I have in my said last Will and Testament bequeathed to her in Lieu of her Dower and shall insist on her Dower that then and in such case all the before mentioned severall bequests to my Son Samuel shall be absolutely null and void to all Intents and Purposes whatsoever and I do now in such case hereby bequeath all the before mentioned Several Legacies unto my other five Sons to wit Thomas John Joshua Benjamine and Joseph to be equally divided among them to their and Each of their own proper use benefit and behoof and whereas in my said last Will and Testament I have bequeathed all my Utensils of Husbandry unto my Six Sons therein mentioned I do now hereby revoke and vacate the said bequest and do hereby give and bequeath all my said Utensils of husbandry unto my three Daughters to wit Elizabeth Deborah and Mary to be equally divided among them to their and each of their own proper use benefit and behoof  In Witness whereof I the said John Birdsal have to this Codicil to my last Will and Testament set my hand and Seal this second day of March in the year of our Lord Christ one thousand seven hundred and Sixty four

                                                                                                                                                John Birdsal                                      (seal)

Signed Sealed Published and Declared by the said John Birdsal as and for a Codicil to his last Will and Testament in the Presence of us Note that the word equal between the 10th and 11th lines and the words last and Testament between the 17th and 18th line from the top were before the publication thereof

Thomas Seaman

George Weeks

Parmenas Jackson

 

Probated on 17 Mar. 1764, and proved by Thomas Seaman and George Weeks of Queens County and Township of Hempstead. Letters of Administration were granted to Thomas Birdsal, John Birdsal, Benjamine Birdsal, and William Smith, the Executors, on 23 Apr. 1764.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from New York County Probate, Vol. 24, p. 389-393, copied from original Liber 24, p. 360-363.

 

 

Will of Elijah Bisbee of Plympton, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1827) *

In the name of God, Amen, I Elijah Bisbee Esq. of Plympton, County of Plymouth, Mass. considering the uncertainty of this mortal life, but of a sound and perfect mind and memory, bless be Almighty God for the same, do make and publish this my last Will and Testament in manner and form following Viz: I give my soul to God who gave it and my body to the dust to be buried in decent christian burial, doubting not but I shall receive the same again in the general resurrection at the last day and as touching my worldly substance my Will is that it be disposed of in the manner following, Viz:

        Imprimis, I give to my well beloved wife Susannah Bisbee the improvement of one third of all my real estate during her natural life. I also give to my wife all my household furniture, all that excepted which I hereafter give to Mary Nye. And I give to my Wife Also one Cow and three sheep together with all the money I may have on hand at my decease for her disposal, to her, her heirs and assigns forever.

Item, I give to my son William Bisbee a certain piece of land known by the name of the little-neck adjoining the land of Josiah Perkins. I also give to my son all my stock of cattle and sheep except what I have otherwise disposed of by this my last Will and Testament. I also give to my son William, all my farming tools and utensils, my desk and clock, together with one half of my books such as he may choose, one feather bed and bedstead, underbed & bed cord, with suitable & sufficient bed covering, together with one half of my wearing apparel, & one half of my Pew in the Meeting House. Moreover I give my son all my demands on every person whether by Note or Book to him, his heirs and assigns forever.

Item, I give to my daughter Hannah Bisbee my great Bible & one half of the residue of my Books and half of my Pew in the Meeting House. I also give to my daughter Hannah one good feather bed, underbed, Bedstead & cord with good & sufficient clothing for it, such as she may choose. Moreover I give to her one Cow and three sheep to her, her heirs and assigns forever.

Item, I give to my daughter Mary Nye a certain lot of land and swamp adjoining Joseph Sherman’s land on the East, and Ebenezer Standish’s on the West. Also one half of an undivided lot of land adjoining the land formerly owned by Samuel Rickard, Also one half of my remaining books in equal division between my two daughters Hannah and Mary. I also direct my Executor hereafter named to pay Mary Nye thirty dollars in one year after my decease with out interest.

Item. I give to my grandson Elijah Bisbee one half of my Apparel. Also all the demands I have against him by Book or Note, provided however he does not bring any demand or claim against my estate. I also direct my Executor to pay my two grandsons, viz: Elijah Bisbee & Beza Bisbee ten dollars each within one year after my decease without interest.

Finally I give to my two grandsons William G. Parker and Joseph A. Parker a certain lot of fresh meadow and land lying in Dunhams Neck, so called, adjoining Timothy Ripley’s land, the said William G. Parker and Joseph A. Parker to take possession of said land when the said William shall be eighteen years of Age and my Will is, that until the above named period, that my son William Bisbee improve the above named land and meadow, as formerly without paying rents or profits and the said William Bisbee keep the fences in good repair and pay all the taxes until the time herein specified.

        And I do appoint my son William Bisbee my sole Executor of this my last Will and Testament and direct him to pay all my just debts and funeral charges, and I do hereby revoke all former Wills by me made and do establish this as my last Will and Testament.

        In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this twenty first day of December in the Year of Our Lord One thousand eight hundred & twenty seven.

                                                                                                                                                Elijah Bisbee                                     (seal)

Signed, sealed, published and declared by the above named Elijah Bisbee

Esqr to be his last Will and Testament in the presence of us, who have

hereunto set our names as witnesses in the presence of the testator

        Elijah Dexter

        Wm H. Soule

        Nathl. M. Dexter

 

Probated on 16 May 1831, and proved by Elijah Dexter and Wm H. Soule, two of the witnesses.

 

Jonathan Parker Esq., Oliver Churchill Jr., Yeoman, and Charles Soule, Gentleman, all of Plympton, were appointed to appraise the estate of Elijah Bisbee, late of Plympton, Esquire, on 16 May 1831. The Inventory was dated 4 Aug. 1831, not totaled, his real estate valued at $562.50, and his personal estate valued at $539.75. Elijah Bisbee, administrator in the Estate with Will annexed of Elijah Bisbee, late of Plympton, Esq., deceased, gave his oath to the inventory on 8 Aug. 1831.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 70, pp. 295-297, 447-447, from FHL microfilm #0555260.

 

 

Will of John Bisbee of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1817) *

   In the name of God amen, I John Bisbee of Bridgwater in the County of Plymouth, Commonwealth of Massachusetts yeoman calling to mind the uncertainty of human Life, do make & ordain this my last will & Testament.—

        I give and bequeath to my Daughter Rebecca wife of Southworth Washburn nineteen Dollars, also to Patty Bradford Wife of Dr. Benjamin Bradford forty Dollars thirty four Cents; to Olive Warren wife of Cyrus Warren twenty seven Dollars & thirty Cents; to the Heirs of Ira Bisbee three hundred & forty three Dollars To Molly Phedyna, Silvia, Almira & Judith Daughters of Mary Edson one hundred Dollars each; to Chandler Bisbee five hundred Dollars, But my Sons John & Ebenezer & my Daughter Huldah Wife of William Barrell, I consider as having had heretofore their respective proportions of my Estate

        I give & bequeath to Jefferson & Albert, Sons of Mary Edson their Maintenance & Support out of my Estate & their Schooling untill they arrive to the Age of sixteen.

        I further give & bequeath to Molly, Phedyna, Silvia, Almira & Judith Daughters of Mary Edson, their support & maintenance & also their schooling untill they are sixteen Years of Age; & to each of them a right in my house so long as they shall respectively remain single. and the Residue and Remainder of my Estate, which is not otherwise disposed of, I give and bequeath to Jefferson & Albert Sons of Mary Edson to be equally divided between them after the payment of my just Debts & funeral Charges.—

        I appoint Isaac Alden 3d. to be the sole Executor to this my last Will and Testament and refer him to a Bond given to me in March 1817 by Ziba and Chandler Bisbee –

        The above Legacies to Rebecca, Patty & Olive to be paid in one Year after my decease and to Molly, Phedyna, Silvia, Almira & Judith when they respectively arrive to the Age of eighteen.—

                Whereas there will be due to me on the day of my decease from Ziba & Chandler Bisbee, the Sum of five hundred Dollars, one hundred Dollars of which I give to the above named Jefferson & Albert in Addition to what I have already given, to be paid to them when they shall respectively arrive to the Age of twenty one, of the remaining four hundred Dollars, it is my Will that it should be disposed of as follows viz that if either of the above named Molly, Phedyna, Silvia, Almira or Judith or Jefferson or Albert should by any Casualty or bodily Infirmity be rendered incapable of earning their support, that my Executor furnish such disabled Child, with such part of the above four hundred Dollars, as he shall deem prudent, untill the said disabled Child shall arrive to the Age of twenty one, but if no such casualty or bodily Infirmity should happen, then the above named Ziba & Chandler are discharged from the payment of the above four hundred Dollars –

        And I do further order & direct my above named Executor to see that the Conditions mentioned in the Bond signed by Ziba & Chandler Bisbee be executed on their part agreeably to the spirit & Intention of said Bond and I revoke all former Wills by me made, in Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand & seal this sixth day of August AD one thousand eight hundred & seventeen. –

Signed sealed published & declared

by the said John Bisbee to be his

last Will and Testament in presence

of us who have subscribed our Names

as Witnesses in presence of the Testator                                                                        John Bisbee                                       (seal)

                Ruth Lincoln

                Asa Pratt

                Nabby W Thayer

 

Presented for probate on 1 Dec. 1817 by Isaac Alden 3d., the Executor therein named, and proved by Asa Pratt and Nabby W Thayer, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Isaac Alden 3d., the before named Executor.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of John Bisbee, late of Bridgwaterr, was appraised by Nathan Alden, Seth Gurney, and William Keith on 28 Mar. 1818, and totaled $3050.00, consisting of the bond given by Ziba and Chaneller Bisee for $2350.00, and a bond to support the widow of the deceased during Life and five Children to the age of 16 of $700, no real estate. Isaac Alden 3d., the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 7 Apr. 1818.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 49, pp. 145-146, 268, from FHL microfilm #0550905.

 

 

Will of Branch Blackmer of Plymouth, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1814) *

In the name of God amen. I, Branch Blackmer of Plymouth in the County of Plymouth & Commonwealth of Massachusetts Yeoman, being of sound & disposing Mind & Memory, do make & ordain this to be my last will & Testament in the first place, I commend my Soul to the Mercy of God who gave it humbly hoping for a glorious Resurrection through Jesus Christ, & as to what worldly Estate, I possess, I give and bequeath the same as follows viz —

                I give & bequeath to my beloved Wife Sarah the use & Improvement of my whole Estate both real & personal for her to improve during the Term of her natural Life except my Debts due to me.—

                2d. After my Wife’s decease, I dispose of my Estate as follows ~~

                1st. I give & bequeath to my Son John Blackmer two undivided third parts of the whole of my real Estate lying in Plymouth aforesd. wherever the same may be found in said Township, Also I give & bequeath to my Son John my Lot of Land lying in Cornwallis in the British province of Nova Scotia containing two hundred & fifty Acres more or less – being & giving all the Land I own in said Province to my said son John, also I give my Son John all Debts due to me, he to pay all my just debts & funeral Expences – And the above bequests to my Son John are on Condition that he pay the Legacies to my Daughters as hereafter named, & on condition that he supports comfortably my Daughter Molly in Sickness & in Health & well provide for her every necessary of Life during her natural Life, he to undertake her support at her Mother’s decease & continue it during her Life, he & his Heirs. Also I give & bequeath to my Son John two thirds of my Neat Stock, Horses & Sheep – Also I give him my Casks, Cranes Steelyards and great Chair. ~~

                2d. I give & bequeath to George Ellis Blackmer, my Grandson & Son of my Son Richard Blackmer decd. one undivided third part of the whole of my real Estate lying in Plymouth aforesaid, & one third of my neat Stock Horses and Sheep on Condition he pays the Legacies hereafter named. —

                3d. I give and bequeath to each of my Sons William Blackmer & Branch Blackmer if living to each one of them one Dollar, to be paid two thirds of said Legacies by my Son John & one third by my Grandson George E. Blackmer –

                4th. I give & bequeath to my Daughter Sarah Harlow wife of James Harlow a Legacy of one hundred & fifty Dollars to be paid two thirds by my son John Blackmer, & one third by my Grandson George E Blackmer on demand after my Wife’s decease. —

                5th. I give & bequeath a Legacy to my Daughter Betsy Johnson Wife of Joseph Johnson, one hundred & fifty Dollars to be paid two thirds by my Son John Blackmer & one third by my Grandson George E Blackmer to be paid on demand after my Wife’s decease.—

                6th. I give & bequeath to my Daughter Jerusha Holmes Wife of Seth Holmes a Legacy of one hundred & fifty Dollars to be paid one third by my Grandson George E Blackmer & two thirds by my Son John Blackmer after my Wife’s decease on demand —

                7th. I give & bequeath to my three Daughters Molly, Sarah & Jerusha to each of them one Bed, & all my Bedding to be equally divided between my said four Daughters & all the Residue of my household Furnitures, I give & bequeath to my above named three married Daughters to be equally divided between them —

                8th. I give & bequeath my wearing Apparel to be equally divided between my said Son John & Grandson George Ellis.—

                Lastly I nominate & appoint my Son John Blackmer to be sole Executor of this my last will & Testament – Signed sealed & declared to be his last will & Testament this fourth day of April A D one thousand eight hundred & fourteen In presence of us ~

        Rosseter Cotton

        Priscilla Cotton

        Sophia Cotton                                                                                                              Branch Blackmer                             (seal)

        Rosseter M Cotton.

Presented for probate on 20 Apr. 1818 by John Blackmer, the Executor therein named, and proved by Rosseter Cotton Esqr. and Priscilla Cotton, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed, Sophia Cotton and Rosseter M Cotton both being now deceased. Letters of Administration were granted to John Blackmer, the before named Executor.

 

Gideon Holbrook, John Cornish Junr. and Freeman Cornish, all of Plymouth, yeomen, were appointed to appraise the Estate of Branch Blackmer, late of Plymouth, yeoman, on 20 Apr. 1818. The Inventory of the Estate of Branch Blackmer, late of Plymouth, dated 16 June 1818, totaled $3230.90, including his real estate valued at $2920. John Blackmer, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 20 June 1818.

 

Joseph Bartlett Esquire, John Cornish yeoman, and Ichabod Morton yeoman, all of Plymouth, and all Freeholders, were appointed to set off to John Blackmer two third parts of the real estate of Branch Blackmer, late of Plymouth, and to his grandson George E. Blackmer one third part, agreeably to the last will and testament of the deceased, on 16 Dec. 1822. The committee gave their oath to the division on 29 Jan. 1823 was it was approved on that date.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 49, pp. 292-294, 356-358, from FHL microfilm #0550905, and Vol. 56, p. 500-501.

 

 

Will of John Blackmer of Plymouth, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1776) *

In the name of God Amen – I John Blackmer of Plymouth in the County of Plymouth in New England, yeoman, being in health of body and of sound & disposing mind, but considering the uncertainty of life, do think proper to Settle my worldly affairs & to make my last will & testament in manner following

First of all I commend my Soul to the everlasting mercy of God thro’ Christ, & my body to a decent Funeral, humbly hoping For a glorious resurrection thro’ the merits of my redeemer, And as to my worldly Estate I dispose thereof as Follows

1st  I Give & bequeath to my Four Daughters Sarah, Susanna, Betty & Experience all the land I purchased of Jabez Holmes & the Heirs of Elnathan Holmes by Deed (except the wood lot hereafter mentioned) to be equally divided between them, and to be & remain to them & to their heirs & assigns Forever. The said Land lying at Monument ponds in said Plymouth.—And my will is that my said Four Daughters should have all the Land that belonged to my Late wife at her decease, that is to say, their brothers part as well as their own, to them and their heirs & assigns Forever

2d  I Give & bequeath all my Household Goods to my three Daughters Susanna, Betty & Experience, to be equally divided between them

3d  I Give to my Son Branch, my Dwelling House & other buildings in said Plymouth and all the Homestead Lands, and the wood lot I purchased of James Clark on the pine hills, and all my right in a wood lot lying on the south side of the town road on the pine hills, which I purchased of the Heirs of Elnathan Holmes, and the lot I bought of John Harlow at long pond, and all my right in a lot of Cedar swamp at South meadows in Plymton; and also my wearing apparell, and all my Stock of Cattle, Horse, Sheep & notes of hand, book debts, Farming untensills, and all my other Estate of whatever kind & wheresoever being that I have not before disposed of—all this provided he gives a Quit Claim to his Four Sisters before mentioned & their heirs of all his right to the Land that descended to him from his mother deceased, and that he pay all my just debts & funeral expences; upon which condition or proviso all the above Estate in buildings and Lands &c. to be to him & his heirs & assigns Forever—

Lastly—I nominate & appoint my said Son Branch Blackmer to be the Sole Executor of this my last will & testament.—In testimony & confirmation of which I the said John Blackmer do hereunto Set my hand & Seal this thirtieth day of January Anno Domini one thousand Seven hundred & Seventy Six—1776

Signed Sealed & declared to be his Last

will & testament in presence of                                                                                        John Blackmer  –                              (seal)

                John Cotton

                Rosseter Cotton     –   Mary Cotton

 

Presented for probate on 7 Oct. 1794 by Branch Blackmer, the Executor, and proved by Rossetter Cotton, one of the witnesses, John Cotton and Mary Cotton, the other witnesses both being since deceased, the will was approved on 20 Oct. 1794.

Branch Blackmer, Gentleman, of Plymouth, posted bond with Ephraim Spooner, Esqr. & Stephen Marcy, Physician, both of Plymouth, as sureties. No inventory was recorded for his estate.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 35, p. 169-170, from FHL microfilm #0550718.

 

 

Will of John Blackmer of Plymouth, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1842) *

                Be it known, that I, John Blackmer of the town of Plymouth in the County of Plymouth and Commonwealth of Massachusetts Yeoman, being of sound mind and memory, and desiring to make a disposal of such estate as I shall leave at my decease, do make publish and declare this instrument to be my last Will and Testament, in manner and form as follows to Wit.—

                First It is my will that all my just debts and funeral charges be, by my Executor hereinafter named, paid out of my personal estate, if it be found Sufficient: if not then that each one to whom I shall herein bequeath my real Estate, shall bear equal parts in the payment of said debts and charges.

                Also I give and bequeath to my beloved wife, Sarah Blackmer the use of all my estate, both personal & Real, which I may possess at the time of my decease except what shall be necessary for the above named purpose, to have and to hold the same to her during her natural life.

                At the decease of my said wife, I dispose of the estate in remainder, among my beloved children as follows viz.

                First I give and bequeath to my beloved son Ezra H Blackmer all that tract of land which is situated on the Easterly side of the road passing by my house Which land is bounded as follows viz. on the north by the land recently owned by Capt. Holbrook, deceased, on the east by the Mill Pond; on the South by a stone Wall which runs nearly east and West and by a line running in the range with said wall to the road; hence, on the West by the road to the northwest corner of my barnyard, and hence by the Southerly and Easterly sides of the land belonging to my son Branch Blackmer, to the northeasterly corner of my said son Branch’s garden, against the said Capt. Holbrook estate.

                This tract of land thus bounded includes the barn. Also I do give and bequeath to my said son Ezra H. Blackmer, all that portion of Real Estate belonging to me, which is known by the name of Beaverdam Swamp: to have and to hold the same to him, his heirs, executors and administrators, to their use and behoof forever.

                Secondly. I do give and bequeath to my beloved son Branch Blackmer, all the remaining part of my real estate which is situated on the easterly side of the road aforesaid and Which is not included in the above legacy, to have and to hold the same to him his heirs executors and Administrators to their use and behoof forever.

                Thirdly I do give and bequeath to my beloved son John Blackmer, all the remaining part of my real Estate which is situated on the Westerly side of the road, and Which is not included in the above legacies, to have and to hold the same to him his heirs executors & Administrators, to their use and behoof forever.

                Provided, however, that my said Sons, Ezra H. Branch and John, shall each and Severally pay to my beloved daughter Ruth C. Holmes the Sum of fifty Dollars within one year from the time of the decease of my Wife aforesaid,– making in amount One hundred and fifty dollars.

                Fourthly, In addition to the above named one hundred and fifty dollars, I do give and bequeath to my said daughter Ruth C. Holmes, all my personal estate which may be found at the death of my said Wife, to have and hold the same to her her heirs executors and administrators to their use and behoof forever.

                Lastly. I do hereby Constitute and appoint my Son John Blackmer Executor to this my last Will and testament; and I hereby revoke all former Will by me made.

                In testimony hereof, I the said John Blackmer Testator have set hereunto my hand and seal at Plymouth aforesaid this fourth day of March in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and forty two.

                                                                                                                                                John Blackmer                                  (seal)

Signed, Sealed published and

declared by John Blackmer the

Testator as & for his last Will and

Testament, in the presence of us who

at his request and in his presence &

in the presence of each other have

hereunto Subscribed our names as

Witnesses

                John Dwight

                Aaron H. Cornish

                Spooner Cornish

 

Presented for probate on the second Monday of Aug. 1847 by John Blackmer, the Executor therein named, and proved by Aaron H. Cornish, one of the Witnesses whose names are subscribed thereto. Letters Testamentary were granted to John Blackmer, the Executor.

 

John Blackmer, of Plymouth, was appointed as Executor of the last Will and Testament of John Blackmer, late of Plymouth, Yeoman, on 9 Aug. 1847, with Thomas Cornish and Seth Clark, both of Plymouth, as sureties.

Seth Clark, Thomas Cornish and Nathaniel Clark, all of Plymouth, were appointed to appraise the estate of John Blackmer, late of Plymouth, on 9 Aug. 1847.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of John Blackmer, late of Plymouth, was dated 28 Aug. 1847, his real estate totaled $923, and his personal estate totaled $102.35. John Blackmer, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 6 Dec. 1847.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 89, pp. 316-319, 518-519, from FHL microfilm #0555639, and Vol. 2H, p. 140.

 

 

Will of Peter Blackmer of Seneca, Ontario County, New York (1842) *

Ontario County Wills, Vol. E, 1851-1854, pp. 532-537, FHL microfilm #0834835:

I Peter Blackmer of the town of Seneca in the County of Ontario and State of New York do make and publish this my last Will and Testament in manner and form that is to say,

First, I give, devise and bequeath to my wife Abigail the one third part of my real estate, situate lying and being in the town of Seneca and county of Ontario, on which I now live, for and during her natural life, and such household furniture beds and bedding as may be required for her comfortable living and support during her said life; this provision being in lieu of her dower in my property.

Second, I give, devise, and bequeath, to my son Ezra Blackmer all my real estate consisting of the farm on which I now live in the said town of Seneca and county of Ontario including the one third part before given to my said wife after her death, and all my personal property of every kind excepting that before given to my said wife during her said life and after her death that portion also; to have and to hold the same to my said son Ezra Blackmer his heirs and assigns forever.

Third, I give to my daughter Mary, wife of Jesse Wheeler a legacy of one hundred dollars to be paid to her at my decease by my said son Ezra out of the property I hereby gave to him, and which I hereby declare to be a charge on the said real estate.

Fourth, I hereby constitute and appoint my said son Ezra Blackmer the sole Executor of this my last will and testament           Peter Blackmer            (seal)

Signed, Sealed, published and declared by the above named testator to be his last Will, and Testament in presence of us, who at his request and in his presence and in presence of each other, have hereunto signed our names as witnesses this twenty eighth day of June 1842.

                B. Whiting of Geneva Ontario Co N York

                John N. Whiting of Geneva Ontario Co New York

 

                On the 18th day of January 1853 Elijah W. Blackmer, a grandson and heir of Peter Blackmer and son of Ezra Blackmer now deceased, who is named in the said last Will and Testament of Peter Blackmer and executor thereof, appeared in open court before the Surrogate of Ontario County and made application to have the said last Will and testament of the said Peter Blackmer which relates to real and personal estate proved and on such application the Surrogate did ascertain by satisfactory evidence who were the widow, heirs and next of kin of the said testator, and their respective residences; and some of them appearing to be minors having no general guardian residing within the state of New York, a special guardian was appointed in due form of law to take care of their interests in the matter of proving the said will, by an order entered for that purpose by said Surrogate…

 

                John N Whiting Esq. of the town of Seneca in said County, being duly sworn and examined before Samuel W. Salisbury Surrogate of the county of Ontario, doth depose and Say, that the instrument in writing now produced and shown to this deponent bearing date the twenty eighth day of June 1842 purporting to be the last Will and testament of Peter Blackmer now deceased is in the handwriting of the father of this deponent—Bowen Whiting Esq. and that the signature “B Whiting” signed as a witness to the said instrument is the true and genuine handwriting and signature of the said Bowen Whiting who is himself now deceased, That this deponent is well acquainted with the handwriting of the said Bowen Whiting deceased having often seen him write in his lifetime,

And further this deponent states, that he was himself present as a witness to the execution of the aforesaid instrument purporting to be the last will and Testament of Peter Blackmer deceased, and at the request of the said Peter Blackmer did sign his name as witness thereto, the said Peter at the same time declaring the said instrument to be his last Will and testament, and not being under restraint, That the recollection of this deponent is somewhat indistinct and that he makes the foregoing Statements in regard to his Witnessing the said instrument, from a firm and sincere belief that he would not under other circumstances have signed his own name as a witness which he did as aforesaid; and that he also has an indistinct recollection of the execution of the said instrument as aforesaid, by him as the same is set forth at the bottom of said will,

Subscribed and sworn this twenty                                                                                    John N Whiting

third day of March 1853 before me

S.W. Salisbury Surrogate

 

Mathew Rippey of the town of Seneca, testified on 23 Mar. 1853, and verified the signature of Peter Blackmer on the will.

Elijah W. Blackmer also testified on 23 Mar. 1853 that he was well acquainted with Peter Blackmer, and that he died on 3 Aug. 1852 in the town of Seneca, and also verified the signature of Peter Blackmer, and that Peter Blackmer was fully competent at the time of the writing of his will.

Recorded 11 April 1853.

 

Ontario County Letters Testamentary & Administrations, Vol. H, 1847-1857, FHL microfilm #0834837, p. 313:

Elijah W. Blackmer and David Pickett were granted administration of the estate of Ezra Blackmer late of Seneca, Ontario County, who died intestate on 13 Dec. 1852, on 23 Mar. 1853.

 

Ontario County Minutes, Orders & Decrees, Vol. J, 1852-1872, FHL microfilm #0834838, p. 57:

January 18, 1853, on filing the petition and affidavit of Elijah M. Blackmer, it is ordered that administration of the estate of Ezra Blackmer be granted to Elijah M. Blackmer and Dolly Maranda Blackmer.

January 18, 1853, on filing the petition and affidavit of Elijah M. Blackmer, it is ordered that Henry W. Willson Esq. be appointed as special guardian of the minor heirs of Peter Blackmer, and that a citation be issued to attend the proof of the will of Peter Blackmer on the 9th of March 1853.

 

Ontario County Minutes, Orders & Decrees, Vol. J, 1852-1872, FHL microfilm #0834838, p. 70:

March 9, 1853, the citation in this matter being issued on the 18th day of January last and returnable this day the said Elijah W. Blackmer and Jesse Wheeler therein cited and mentioned did appear in open court, Whereupon this court took cognizance of the matter and proceeded to ascertain that the citation had been duly served on all the persons named therein and mention of the said Elijah W. Blackmer, (no one opposing,) It is ordered that the matter stand adjourned till the 23rd day of March, and the said Elijah, the petitioner herein having applied for a Subpoena to John N. Whiting and Nathan Rippey it is ordered that a subpoena issue accordingly to them as witnesses in this matter, returnable the said 23rd of March.

 

Ontario County Minutes, Orders & Decrees, Vol. J, 1852-1872, FHL microfilm #0834838, p. 73:

March 23, 1853, the proofs in the matter of the will of Peter Blackmer being deemed sufficient, it is ordered that the said will be admitted to probate.

March 23, 1853, on reading and filing the petition of Elijah W. Blackmer, son of Ezra Blackmer, late of the town of Seneca deceased, and on reading and filing the renunciation of Dolly M. Blackmer, widow of the said deceased, the said petition praying that letters of administration on the estate of Ezra Blackmer deceased be granted to the said petitioner together with David Pickett.

 

Ontario County Minutes, Orders & Decrees, Vol. J, 1852-1872, FHL microfilm #0834838, p. 118:

September 28, 1853, the list of claims against the estate of Ezra Blackmer deceased, included a $100 legacy to the wife of Peter Blackmer, but did not list the $100 legacy to Mary, the wife of Jesse Wheeler.

 

Ontario County Guardianship Records, Vol. K, FHL microfilm #0834838, pp. 250-254:

Dolly Miranda Blackmer, upon the petition of Harriet Snyder, a minor over the age of 14 years, residing in the town of Gorham in Ontario County, was appointed as guardian of Harriet Snyder on 23 Mar. 1853.

Thomas G. Rippey, upon the petition of Polly M. Blackmer regarding Newton E. Blackmer, her son, a minor under the age of 14 years, residing in the town of Seneca, Ontario County, was appointed as guardian of Newton E. Blackmer on 23 Mar. 1853.

Thomas G. Rippey, upon the petition of Nirim A. Blackmer, a minor over the age of 14 years, residing in the town of Seneca, Ontario County, was appointed as guardian of Nirim A. Blackmer on 23 Mar. 1853.

Thomas G. Rippey, upon the petition of James A. Blackmer, a minor over the age of 14 years, residing in the town of Seneca, Ontario County, was appointed as guardian of James A. Blackmer on 23 Mar. 1853.

Thomas G. Rippey, upon the petition of John H. Blackmer, a minor over the age of 14 years, residing in the town of Seneca, Ontario County, was appointed as guardian of John H. Blackmer on 23 Mar. 1853.

 

* All transcribed or abstracted by John A. Maltby from FHL microfilm #s 0834835, 0834837, and 0834838.

 

 

Will of William Blackmer of Plymouth, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1698) *

Be it known to all men by these presents that I William Blackmer of the Town of Plimouth in ye County of Plimouth in New England being weak of Body through Sickness yet of Perfect mind and memory yet not knowing how soone it may Please God to Change my life & Sickness to death, do therefore make & ordaine these presents to be my last Will & Testament in manner following. Imps, I Give & Bequeath my soul to God that gave it me and my body to ye Dust & to decent Burial in hopes of a joyfull Resurrection through ye merits of my Dear Redeemer And as to that out ward Estate that God hath Given me I dispose of as followeth vizt I do Give unto my Brother John Blackmer and unto my sister Phebe Holmes all my whole Interest of Land to be Equally divided Betwixt them two they paying such legacies as herein after is mentioned Said lands I do by these presents Give unto my said Brother John Blackmer and my sister Phebe Holmes to them & their heirs for Ever hereby binding them to pay a Legacy of ten pounds apeace unto my Brother peter his two children that is to say Joseph and Jane And my will it yt in Case my mother should stand in need of reliefe that then they my said Brother and Sister Shall pay ten pound a peace for her & in case she should live to spend that then my said Brother and Sister shall allow my said mother Eight pounds pr year during her naturall life And also my will is that my Brother Ebenezer Holmes shall have & Enjoy my whole personall Estate & the use of my farme one year after my Decease And lastly I do nominate and appoint my Loving Brother Ebenezer Holmes to be ye Sole Executor of this my last will and Testament to pay all my Debts that I owe & to recover such debts as is owing to me And to se my Body Decently Buried and to defray ye charges thereof thus hoping that this my last will will be kept & performed hereby Revoaking all former Wils either verball or written I ye sd Wlliam Blackmore have hereunto set my hand & Seal on ye fifth day of October 1698.

Signed Sealed & Declared to be his last                                                                         William Blackmer                            (seal)

Will & Testament in presence of

us Witnesses

David Sheppard

Thomas ffaunce

Jane ffaunce

 

The 21th of Decembr 1698 Then appeared Thomas ffaunce & Joane his wife & David Sheppard the Witnesses hereto Subscribed & made oath before Wm Bradford Esqr in Plimouth that they were present & saw & heard William Blackmer ye Testator above named sign seal & Declare ye Instrument above written to be his last Will & Testament & that to ye best of their judgment he was of sound mind & memory when he did ye same   Attest Saml Sprague Register

Administration of the last Will of William Blackmer late of Plimouth was granted unto his Brother in law Ebenezer Holmes Executor in the same will named on 21 Dec. 1698.

 

The Inventory of ye Estate of William Blackmer late of Plimouth deceased taken & apprized on 20 Oct. 1698 by Josiah Phinney and Benjamin Warren, was not totaled, but his lands were valued at £100. Ebenezer Holmes, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 21 Dec. 1798.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 1, p. 299 (will), and p. 298 (inventory), from FHL microfilm #0550708.

 

 

Will of Caleb Blackwell of Rochester, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1762) *

In the Name of God Amen the Ninth Day of November AD 1762 I Caleb Blackwell of Rochester in the County of Plimouth yeoman being in an advanced Age but of a Sound and Disposeing minde & memory Thanks be To God therefor and Knowing it is appointed for all men to Dye Do make & ordain This my Last will & Testament Recommending My Soul to God that Gave it & my Boddy to the Earth to be buried in Decent Christian Burial at the Descresion of my Executors hereafter named & as To Such Worldly Estate wherewith hath Pleased God to bless me with in this Life I Give & Dispose of the Same In the following manner & forme

Imprs. I Give & bequeth to my only Son Seth Blackwell & To his heirs and Assignes For Ever the whole of my homestead farme Including the Close on the South Side of the way Consisting of Housing orcharding & Fencing Together with my wearing Apparel My Gun & my Part of the Cyder mill Reserving To My Son in Law Nicholas Crapo Liberty therein To make up his own frute he Said Seth Pay all my Just Debts & funeral Charges

Item I Give & bequeth To my Two Grandsons John Nye & Phillip Nye Sons of My Daughter Sarah Nye Deceased in Equal Partinship one hundred & fifty Pounds Lawfull monny to be Put on Intrest at my Deceas by my Extrs. hereafter named & both Princapel & Intrest Paid Them when they arrive at Lawfull age by sd. Executors. & further my will is that if Either the sd. John or Phillip Deceases before they arrive to the age of Twenty one years the whole of said sum & Intrist shall be Paid to his Surving Brother at sd age & if sd. John Nye & Phillip Nye both Dye without Issue then the whole of this Legecy shall be Equally Divided betwen my Then Surviving Children

Item I Give & bequeth to my Two Daughters Bethiah Nye Alles Crapo & To their Heirs & Assigns For Ever in Equal Partinship all my Salt Meddow My Right In the Long Pond Swamp so Called and all my Cedar Swamp & my Right In the fifteen acres of Land in Partinship with Freman & Sprage Together with all Other my moveble Estate not other wise Disposed off

Item I Give & bequeth To the Third Parrish in Rochester &c (So Called) all the Incom of my Right in sd. Parrish Farm so Called so Long as the Revd. Thomas West Continues a Preacher of the Gospel there in the Congegational way and after that To be & belong to my said Two Daughters Bethiah Nye & Alice Crapo

Finally My will is that my Son Seth Blackwell & my Son in Law Nicholas Crapo be Joynt Executors of this my Last will & Testament

                In witness where of I have hereunto Set my hand & Seal the Day & year above written

Signed Sealed Published & Declared by

The Said Caleb Blackwell To be                                                                                      Caleb Blackwell                               (seal)

his Last will & Testament in

Presence of us Subscribers

Steaphan Perry

Eunis Paddock

Noah Sprage

 

Presented for probate on 28 Apr. 1763 by Seth Blackwell and Nicholas Crapo, the Executors therein named, and proved by Stephan Perry and Noah Sprage, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Seth Blackwell and Nicholas Crapo, the Executors.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Caleb Blackwell, late of Rochester, was appraised on 7 Dec. 1762 by Noah Sprage, Cornelius Briggs, and Thomas Whitredg, and totaled £1217.8.6, including £544.19.2 in securities, and £494.13.4 in real estate. Seth Blackwell and Nickolas Crapo, the Executors, gave their oath to the inventory on 28 Apr. 1763.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 16, pp. 430-432, 420-421, from FHL microfilm #0551543.

 

 

Will of John Bonney of Pembroke, County of Plymouth, Privince of the Massachusetts Bay (1763) *

In the Name of God Amen, the twenty Sixth day of July Anno Domini 1763. I John Bonney of Pembrooke in the County of Plimouth in New England yeoman being under infirmitys of body but of Sound mind & memory, Thanks be given to God for the same Do make and Ordain this my last will and Testament.

First I Recommend my Soul to God that gave it and my body to the Earth to be buried with Christian burial at the Discresion of my Executor hereafter named not doubting but I shall receive the same again by the Almighty power of God and touching such worldly Estate as God hath blessed me with in this life, I dispose thereof in the manner following: i.e. my will is that all my Just debts and funeral Charges be first paid out of my personal Estate

2.ly I Give and Bequeath to my son John Bonney the One half part of my Meadow lying in Pembrooke aforesaid which I bought of Abram Booth, Joshua Turner and Ichabod Wadsworth to be to him said John  Bonney his heirs and assigns forever, also I Give to my said son his heirs & Assigns forever two third parts of all the rest of my Real Estate, whereever it may be found, Also I Give my said son my wearing apparel, my two Guns & Sword also my Cash & Notes of hand.

3dly. I Give and bequeath to my two daughters, Zerviah Bonney and Rachel Chamberlain to them their heirs & Assigns forever, the remaining third part of my Real Estate, excepting the peice of meadow above Given to my son John to be divided equally between them or their respective heirs.

Item. I Give to my daughter Zerviah Bonney the bed & furniture which she comonly calls her own with Six pr. of Sheets the weaven loom two pewter platters and Six pewter plates with the liberty of Carrying away whatever she hath bought with her own money ~  Item my Pew in the meeting house I Give in Equal partnership to all my three Children.

All the remainder of My personal Estate I Give to my two daughters Zerviah Bonney and Rachel Chamberlain to be equally divided between them.

Finally I doe hereby Constitute and appoint my son John Bonney to be Sole Executor to this My last will & Testament here by revokeing & disanulling all Other wills or Testaments in any wise by me heretofore made, In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand & Seal the day & year above written

Signed Sealed published & declared by the                                                                   John Bonney                      (seal)

said John Bonney as his last will

and Testament in presents of us

Thomas Smith

Judeth Smith

Judith Smith jur.

 

Presented for probate on 4 Feb. 1765 by John Bonney, the Executor therein named, and proved by Mr. Thomas Smith, Judith Smith and Judith Smith junr., the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to John Bonney, the Executor.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of John Bonney, late of Pembrooke, was appraised on 31 Jan. 1765 by Ichabod Bonney, Isaac Oldham and Fredon Chamberlin junr., but no totaled, his homestead farm and buildings valued at £146.13.4, and his fresh meadow valued at £100. John Bonney, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 4 Feb. 1765.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 19, p. 167-169, from FHL microfilm #0550711.

 

 

Will of Thomas Bonney of Duxbury, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1735) *

Know all Men by these Presents that I Thomas Bonney of Duxborough in ye County of Plymouth in the Province of the Massachusetts Bay in New-England Husbandman being aged & in daily Expectation of my Dissolution by reason of Sickness & many Infirmities, Yet of perfect Mind & Memory, Thanks be given to Almighty God, do therefore upon Mature & serious Consideration Make & ordain these Presents to be my last Will & Testament in Manner & form following to remain firm & inviolable forever

Imprims I Recommend my Soul into ye hands of God ye Father of Spirits who gave it & my Body to the Earth in hope of a better Resurrection through my Lord & Savr who is the Resurrection & the Life; And as touching All Such temporal Estate wherewith it hath pleased Almighty God to bless me in this Life I Give Demise & Dispose thereof in the following Manner & form Viz: —

First My Will is that all my just Debts & funeral Charges be paid & discharged within Convenient time after my Decease —

Itm I Give & bequeath to my Daughter Elizabeth now ye Wife of Ephraim Norcutt one half of ye whole of that Farm of Land both Upland & Meadow in Duxborough abovesd whereon I now dwell with one Half of all the Housing Fencing & orchards thereon & thereunto belonging: to her & her Heirs & assigns forever

Itm I Give & Bequeath to my Grand Children viz: ye Children of my Daughter Mercy (now ye Wife of John Curtes) which She had by her late Husband—Nathaniel Delanoe late of sd Duxborough Deceasd- ye other half of ye Whole of my Abovesd Farm with one half of all ye Housing Fencing & orchards thereon & thereunto belonging to them my sd Grand Children their Heirs & assigns forever viz: One third Part thereof to my Grandson Nathaniel Delano & the other two Thirds thereof to be equally divided among his four Sisters viz:{Mercy

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                {Lydia

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                {Serviah &

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                {Mary

Item my Will is that if my sd Daughter Mercy shall Survive after ye Death of her present Husband John Curtis my above Mentioned Grand Children shall pay to her ye Sum of Twenty Pounds out of what is above Given them Each one their Proportion according to what is given them as abovesd —

Itm I Give my Gun to my Grand son Nathaniel Delano —

Itm I Give to my Grand Daughter Mercy Delano if She shall be Married with twelve Months after my Decease one feather Bed with ye Furniture of it —

Itm I Give & Beqeuath to my sd Daughter Elizabeth my biggest Bible & one feather Bed with ye furniture thereof my Warming Pan & largest Iron Pot my Trammels & other Utensils belonging to ye Chimney —

Itm My Will is that my Son in Law Ephraim Norcutt shall have one half of all ye Hay, Grain, Apples, & of whatsoever else hath been raised is now Growing or hath been growing up on my abovesd Farm this present Year is Harvested, Gathered in, or is yet to be harvested, mowed, or gathered in from of ye sd Farm Provided that he ye sd Ephraim Norcutt shall Complete & Finish what remains to be done in Harvesting mowing & Gathering in the Above mentioned Premises & also pay into my sd Estate Twenty Shillings — Item my Will is that my two Wood Lots of Land lying within ye Township of Duxborough abovesd-Contiguous to ye high Way that leads from Duxborough to Marshfield shall be Disposed of in ye Same Manner & Proportion & to ye Same Persons that my Abovesd Farm is given & bequeathed to ~~

Itm All ye Residue of my Estate in whatsoever Speise it is or may be found I Give & Bequeath to my abovesd two Daughters Viz: Elizabeth Norcutt and Mercy Curtes to be equally Divided between them —

Itm I do hereby Nominate Constitute & appoint my Much Esteemed Friend Thoms Prince of sd Duxborough to be the Sole Executor of this my last Will & Testament & I do hereby Revoke & Disallow all former Wills by me heretofore Made Confirming & Ratifying this & no other to be my last Will & Testament  I Witness & Confirmation whereof I have hereto Set my hand & Seal ye twenty ninth Day of July anno Domini -1735.

Signed Sealed Pronounced & Declard by ye sd

Thomas Bonney to be his last Will &                                                                                              Thomas  X  Bonney            (seal)

Testament In ye Presence of                                                                                                                       his Mark

Elisha Brewster  Bethiah Pesor [?]

Jno Wadsworth       her X  Mark

 

Proved on August ye 19: 1735 by Elisha Brewster, Bethiah Pesor [?], and John Wadsworth, the witnesses. Administration of the estate of Thomas Bonney, late of Duxborough, granted to Thomas Prince, of Duxborough.

 

The Inventory of the Estate both real & personal of Thomas Bonney, late of Duxborough, not dated or totaled, was taken by John Alden, Israel Silvester and John Wadsworth, his real estate valued at £600, and mentioned were bonds due to him from Christopher Wadsworth and Ichabod Samson. Thomas Prince, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 20 Jan. 1735[/36].

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 7, pp. 156-157, 169, from FHL microfilm #0550513.

 

 

Will of William Bonney of Plympton, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1771) *

                                                In the Name of GOD, Amen.

The twentieth day of February one thousand, seven hundred & seventy one, I William Bonney of Plimton in the county of Plymouth in New-England being, thro’ divine goodness being of a sound mind & memory; notwithstanding calling to mind the mortality of my body, knowing it is apointed for all men once to die, do make & ordain this my last will and testament, and principally I recomend my soul into the hand of GOD that gave it, trusting thro’ free grace in Jesus Christ to receive the free & full pardon of all my sins & to inherit glory, and my body I recomend to the earth to be decently buried at the discretion of my executor hereafter-mentioned, trusting that by the mighty power of GOD to receive the same again at the general resurrection, and as touching such worldly estate as it hath pleased GOD to bless me with in his life I give and bequeath in the following manner.—

Item. I give & bequeath unto my welbeloved wife Mehitable the use & improvement of one third part of all my real estate not already disposed off, during her natural life with the improvement of one third part of the dwelling-house I dwell in, with one third part of the west end of said house which I lately conveyed to Beriah Bonney. also my will is that my cousin Samuel Bonney shall improve said real estate and return to my said wife yearly & every year one sixth part of all the produce of all sorts of grain, & corn, & flax, hay, & cyder, & apples, & sauce of all sorts, excepting my said wife shall see cause to improve said estate herself.     Also I give unto my said wife for her own disposal, all the movable estate she brought when she became my wife, together with one feather-bed & furniture, one slice & pair of tongs, and four of my best chairs, & my great-chair, together with as many other goods as she stands in need of for house-keeping, with two cows, together with as much corn & meat as she shall have ocasion for, until the return of another produce of the necessaries of life.

   Item, I give & bequeath unto my cousin Samuel Bonney son of my brother Isaac Bonney, his heirs & assigns forever, all my real estate not already disposed off, excepting my cedar swamp lot, of which lot I give unto my said cousin Samuel his heirs & assigns forever, ninety rods in length & about twelve rods in wedth, lying in Colechester-cedar-swamp, begining at the north end thereof and to extend south the said ninety rods. I also give unto my aforesaid cousin Samuel Bonney all the remaining part of my movable estate excepting my great-bible, and the best suit of my wearing apparel. ~

  Item I give and bequeath unto my brother Isaac Bonney my great-bible, and my best suit of my wearing apparel, together with all the remaining part of my swamp-lot, his heirs and assigns forever. –

 Item I give & bequeath unto my sister Martha Thear & Peter Thear one cow or heifer of two or three years old. also my will is that my cousin Samuel Bonney shall be obliged to keep a suitable horse for my said wife to ride with suitable tackling so long as she shall remain my widow. ~

Also my will is that my said cousin Samuel Bonney shall pay all my just debts & funeral charges. ~~  Lastly, I do by these presents constitute & apoint my cousin Samuel Bonney sole executor of this my last will & testament, renouncing all other wills before by me made. ~

In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand, and seal the day & year above written.

Signed, sealed, published & deliverd. & declared by                                                    William Bonney                (seal)

the sd Wm. Bonney to be his last will & testament

in the presence of us,          James Harlow

                                                John Mcfarling

                                                Josiah Perkins

 

Presented for probate on 4 Jan. 1773 by Samuel Bonney, the Executor therein named, and proved by James Harlow and John Macfarling, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Samuel Bonney, the executor, with James Harlow and John Macfarling, both of Plympton, yeomen, as sureties.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 21, p. 214-215, from FHL microfilm #0550712.

 

 

Will of George Bonum of Plympton, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1747) *

In the Name of God amen, George Bonum of Plimton in the County of Plimouth yeoman Labouring under the Infirmyties of old age but of Sound & disposeing mind and Memory and Calling to mind the Mortallity of my body and knowing it is appointed for all men once to dye do make and ordain this my last will and Testament, that is to say Principally and first of all I Will and bequeath my Soul to God who gave it and my body to the dust to be decently Buried at the Discretion of my Executor hereafter named Nothing doubting but at the General Resurrection, I Shall receive the same again by the mighty power of God and as Touching such worldly Estate wherewith God hath been pleased to bless me in this life I dispose of the same in the manner following  viz  Imprimis, I will and Order that my Just Debts & funeral charges be paid as soon as may be Conveniently after my Decease by my Executor hereafter named.

Item. I Give and bequeath unto my Beloved Wife the Improvement of my whole Estate both Real & personal dureing her natural life

Item. I Give and Bequeath at my wifes decease to my Beloved son and Daughter Rowland and Lydia Hammond their Heirs and assigns forever all that my parcel of Meadow being part of my Homestead lying on the Northwest side of the river Bounded as followeth viz Beginning at a place called the Watering place then upstream by the river to Barnes Meadow thence in the range of Barnes’ Meadow to the upland thence by the upland to the Watering place abovementioned.

Item. I Give and bequeath at my Wifes decease unto my Three daughters Namely Elizabeth Nye, Ann Barnes and Lydia Hammond their Heirs and assigns a Feather Bed Each and after these Beds are taken out, my Will is the rest of my moveable Estate be given to the aforesaid Elizabeth Nye, Ann Barnes & Lydia Hammond one fourth or Quarter part Each and the other fourth or quarter part my Will is to be divided between the abovesd three Children Elizabeth Nye Ann Barnes & Lydia Hammond and my Beloved Grandson Bonum Nye, and my Real Estate that I have not disposed of in this present Will or by Deed my Will is be Equally divided among my three Children Elizabeth Nye Ann Barnes & Lydia Hamond & my Grandson Bonum Nye their Heirs and Assigns –

Furthermore I Nominate and Appoint my Loveing son in Law Rowland Hamond to be Sole Executor of this my last will and Testament hereby revokeing all other and former Wills Either written or Verbal by me hereto fore made or done and hereby ratifieing & Confirming this my last Will and Testament  In Testimony Whereof I have hereunto set my hand and Seal the seventeenth day of June One Thousand seven hundred & forty seven

Signed Sealed Pronounced & Declared                                                                                           Mem: The words Beds & to be

by the said George Bonum to be his                                                                                                given to were Interlined

Last Will and Testament In presence of us.                                                                                    Before Signing –

                Joseph Bridgham                                                                                                                                 his

                James Lucas                                                                                                                           George  l3  Bonum

                            her                                                                                                                                              mark

                Abigail  X  Lucas

                          marke

 

Presented for probate on 19 May 1748 by the Executor therein named, and proved by Joseph Bridgham Esqr. James Lucas & Abigail Lucas.

 

The Inventory of the Real & Personal Estate of George Bonum, late of Plimton, yeoman, not dated, was appraised by Joseph Bridgham, Samuel Barrows and Benja. Shurtleff, and totaled £400.7.2½. His real estate, consisting of several different lots and meadows, was not totaled separately, but was worth about £240. Rowland Hamond, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 14 July 1748.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 11, pp. 57-58, 60-61, from FHL microfilm #0551537.

 

 

Will of Jedediah Bourn of Marshfield, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1765) *

                                                In the Name of God Amen.

I Jedediah Bourn of Marshfield in the county of Plimouth in New England yeoman, being weak of body but of sound mind & memory (blessed be God) do make & ordain this to be my last will & testament in manner & form following viz, First of all I recommend my soul to God hoping in his infinite Mercy thro’ Jesus Christ for a Glorious Resurrection to eternal life in a future state, & my body I recomend to a decent christian burial at the discretion of my executor here after named, and as to such worldly estate as it has pleased God to bless me with I will & dispose off in the following manner viz.

Imprs. I Bequeath to my loving wife Sarah Bourne one third part of the improvement of all my real estate, & out of my personal, one Feather bed, such as she shall choose, & as much other of my Goods as with the bed will amount to thirteen Pounds six shillings & eight Pence to be delivered her by my executor hereafternamed together with all the demands that I have or ought to have for the improvement of her right of dower in the estate of her late husband Nathan Thomas decd. while she the said Sarah was my wife.

Item. I give to my two Grandsons Thomas Spooner & Nathaniel Spooner, sons of my late daughter Deborah Spooner, one hundred & thirty three Pounds six shillings & eight pence to be paid to them in equal halfs within two Years after my decease by my executor, & in case either of my said two Grandchildren should die before this Legacy becomes due or before they arrive at the age of twentyone years, the survivor of the two to be entitled to the whole Legacy. ~

Item. I Give to my Grandson Jedediah Hammond son to my late daughter Ann Hammond one hundred & thirty three pounds six shilling & eight Pence to be paid to him by my executor within two Years after my decease. ~

Item. I give to my two Grandaughters Elizabeth & Mary Phillips daughter of my late daughter Elizabeth Phillips decd. the sum of one hundred & thirty three pounds six shillings & eight pence, to be paid to them in equal halves within two Years after my decease & in case either of my said two Grandaughters should die before this Legacy becomes due or before they arrive to the age of twentyone years or day of marriage which may first happen, the survivor of the two, to be entitled to the whole Legacy.

Item. I Give & bequeath unto my daughter Sarah Thomas the wife of Nathan Thomas or to her heirs the sum of one hundred & thirty three pounds Six shill. & eight pence, to be pd. her or heirs by my Exr. within two Years after my decease.

And my will further is that in case that it should please God that my said two Grandsons Spooners, or my Grandson Hammond or both of my Grandaughters Phillips,s should die & there be heirs wanting to either of my sd. decd. daughters Deborah, Ann, or Elizabeth, to say, before they arrive of age or day of marriage, that then & in such case the legacy given to such of them for the affection I bore to my daughters their Mothers or them, be equally divided between those of my daughters heirs that do survive together with my daughter Sarah Thomas or heirs, tosay, one share to my daughter Sarah Thomas or her heirs & one share to the heirs of my other daughters that may survive respectively.

And Whereas I lately sold to Nehemiah Pierce about twelve acres of land at a place called Sandy Pond in Pembroke that was the estate of my late wife & mother to the said Mary Thomas & Grandmother to my Grandchildren in this will mentioned my will is that in consideration of their respective legacies, they are excluded from any right to their shares in said twelve acres so sold, or if in case they should disturb the sd. Nehh. in his quiet possession of sd. land then my executor or his heirs shall have action against my Legatees for damage occasioned by such suit. ~

As to what other Lands that was my Late Wife,s, (Altho I am sensible they are not at my disposal), Yet mention them, & Leave them to be divided as the Law directs. ~

Finally I give & bequeath to my only son Rouse Bourn to him his heirs & assigns forever all the rest of my estate be it real or personal in possession or reversion or mixd. or of what kind name or Nature soever, he paying the aforegoing Legacies to my Daughter Sarah or heirs & to my Grandchildren named in this my will according to the direction herein, and also all my just debts & Funeral charges & I do hereby constitute & appoint my son Rouse Bourne sole Executor of this my last will & Testament. And I do hereby revoke & make void all other or former wills by me heretofore made & establish this only, as my last will & Testament. In witness whereof I have hereunto sett my hand & seal the nineteenth of July A.D. 1765.

Signed, sealed, published pronouncd. by sd.

Jedediah Bourn, to be his last will & Testam:                                                               Jedediah Bourn                (seal)

in prescence off.                  John Winslow

                                                Samuel Thomas Junr.

                                                Elijah Foord

 

Presented for probate on 28 Oct. 1765 by Rouse Bourn, the Executor therein named, and proved by John Winslow Esq. and Samuel Thomas Junr., two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Rouse Bourn, the Executor, with Samuel Thomas Jr., of Marshfield, yeoman, and Edward Winslow of Plimouth Esq., as sureties, on 28 Oct. 1765.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 19, p. 324-326, from FHL microfilm #0550711.

 

 

Will of Josiah Bourn of Pembroke, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1763) *

I Josiah Bourn of Pembroke in the county of Plymouth in New-England, being of a sound mind and memory do make and ordain this my last will and testament. As for my body I recomend to a christian burial, and my soul to God who gave it; and as for my temporal estate I give as followeth.

                Imprs. I give to Priscilla my beloved wife thirteen pounds, six shillings and eight pence, out of my moveable estate to her own dispose, and the improvement of a third part of my house and land, so long as she shall remain my widdow. –

                Item, I give to my son James Bourn a sixty acre lot of Land that I had of Joseph Stutson, joining upon Sever’s Land, my dwelling-house which may be on said Lot, with a privilege ‘to & from said house to the other land excepted.–

                Item, I give to my sons Josiah Bourn & James Bourn the remainder of my homestead, with the buildings and privileges thereunto belonging, equally to be divided. —

                Item, I give to my son Thomas Bourn ten sheep, and what I have already helped him about his house. —

                Item, I give to my daughter Elizabeth Stutson out of my movable estate so much as to make up what I have already given her equal to twenty pounds.

                Item, I give to my daughter Priscilla Perkins out of my movable estate so much as to make up what I have already given her equal to thirteen pounds six shillings and eight pence. –

                Item, I give to my daughter Rebeccah Robinson out of my movable estate so much as to make up what I have already given her equal to thirteen pounds, six shillings and eight pence. –

                Item, I give to my son Ebenezer Bourn,s children six shillings to each of them and to my daughter Mary Gardner’s children six shillings to each of them to be paid by my executors.      –

                Lastly. I give to my two sons Josiah & James Bourn the remainder of my estate both real & personal that I have not already disposed off, whom I appoint to be executors to this my Last will and testament.     In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this twenty third day of May A.D. 1763. —

Signed, sealed & delivered in                                                                                            Josiah Bourn                     (seal)

                presence of us.

Josiah Cushing

Josiah Cushing junr.

Sarah Cushing

 

Presented for probate on 8 June 1770 by Josiah Bourn and James Bourn, the Executors therein named, and proved by Josiah Cushing and Sarah Cushing, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Josiah Bourn and James Bourn, the Executors, with Josiah Cushing, all of Pembroke, as surety.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 20, p. 402-403, from FHL microfilm #0550711.

 

 

Will and Codicil of David Bozworth of Halifax, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1740) *

In the Name of God Amen I David Bozworth of Hallifax in the County of Plimouth in New England Yeoman being under Infirmity of body and not knowing the time of my death And being willing to set my house in Order before I dye Do there fore make and Ordain this to be my last Will and Testament—

First and Principally I recomend my Soul to ye Mercifull hands of God who Gave it hopeing for a blessed resurrection through ye merrits of Christ my body I commit to ye Earth to be decently buried, and as to my worldly Estate I Give & bequeath ye same in following manner —

Imps. I Give to my Beloved wife Patience the use of half my Moveable Estate dureing life with Liberty to Expend what She may have occasion for of it and also ye improvement of the Houseing and lands I have Given to my sons Jonathan & Nehemiah dureing life according to ye Restrictions & Lemitations Mentioned in my Deeds to my said Sons —

Item—I Give to my son David my Great Bible and all my Wearing Apparell haveing already Given him his portion in Lands & money &c.—

Item. I Confirm to my sons Nehemiah & Jonathan all the lands and Houseing I have Given them by Deed to them, their heirs and assigns forever —

Item, I Give to my daughter Hannah half my moveable Estate, And what may be left of the other half after my wifes decease

Lastly, I nominate and appoint my son Jonathan to be Sole Executor of this my last Will and Testament who is to pay my debts and funeral Expenses before ye above Distribution of my Moveable Estate be made —  In Witness whereof I the said David Bozworth have hereunto set my hand & Seal this twenty Seventh of October, Anno RRs Georgii 2di Decimo quarto, Anno Dom. One thousand Seven hundred & fourty

Signed Sealed & Declared to be his

Last Will, In presence of

Jno. Cotton                                                                                                                            David Bozworth                (seal)

John Drew junr

Noah Cushing

 

                                                                                                A Codicil

                                                                                                                                                                                                It is my mind & Will that in as

Much as my son Jonathan is deceased that my Surviveing son Nehemiah Shall be Sole Executor to this my last will and Testament, as witness my hand and Seal May the 8th 1743.

Signed Sealed & Declared

In presence of                                                                                                                      David Bozworth                (seal)

John Cotton

John Stertefant jur.

                  his

Hazediah  +  Stertefand

                marke

 

Presented for probate on 14 July 1747 by the Executor therein named, and proved by Mr. John Cotton, John Drew Junr. and Noah Cushing. No inventory was recorded for his estate.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 11, p. 396-397, from FHL microfilm #0551537.

 

 

Will of Zadock Bozworth of Halifax, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1775) *

In the Name of God Amen The Thirteenth Day of November Annoque Domini one Thousand Seven Hundred & Seventy five I Zadoc Bozworth of Hallifax in the County of Plymouth & Province of the Massachusetts Bay in New England Labourer being of a Perfect disposing Mind and Memory but calling to mind the Mortallity of my Body as knowing that it is Appointed for all men once to die do make & ordain this my Last Will & Testament that is to Say — First of all I recommend my Soul into the Hands of God that Gave it and my Body I recomend to the Earth to be Buried in a decent Christian Burial at the discretion of my Executors nothing doubting but at ye. Resurection I shall receive the Same again by the mighty Power of God And as to my Worldly Estate with which God has blessed me I give demise & dispose of in the following Manner ~

Imprimis I give & Bequeath to my Son Waterman Bozworth the whole of my Real Estate Excepting the Improvement of that Part hereafter Mentioned ~

Item I give to my Son Waterman my best Gun & Armour also two Third Parts of my Moveable Estate after my Just Debts are paid out of it ~

Item I give & Bequeath to my Daughter Elizabeth Bozworth one Third Part of my Moveable Estate after the Debts are Paid ~

Item It is my Will that my Son Watterman Should pay to my Daughter Elizabeth when she shall arrive at the Age of twenty one years one third Part of the worth of my Real Estate as it shall be valued when he comes into Possession of it at the Age of twenty one ~

Item I give to my Daughter aforesd. the Priveledge of Living in my House & Improving as much of it & also of my Orchard as is Necessary for her Comfort ~

Item I give & Bequeath to my Honoured Mother the Living in my House & Improving as much of it & also of my Orchard as shall be for her Comfort and likewise her fire wood cut fit for the fire at the door dureing her Widowhood ~

Item I give to my Daughter Elizabeth one Third Part of my Pew in the Meeting House ~ Likewise I do hereby appoint Ebenezar Thomson and my Brother Ichabod Bozworth to be Sole Executors of this my Last Will & Testament & do hereby Revoke & disanul all and every other former Wills Testaments Legacies or Executors, by me any way before Named Willed or Bequeathed rattifying & confirming this to be my last Will & Testament. In Witness whereof I have hereto Set my Hand and Seal the Day and Year above writen ~

Signed Sealed & declared to be                                                                                        Zadock Bozworth                             (seal)

his last Will & Testament by the

Sd. Zadock Bozworth In Presence

of us

Ephraim Briggs

Freeman Waterman

John Leach Junr.

 

Presented for probate on 4 March 1776 by Ebenezar Thompson and Ichabod Bozworth, the Executors therein named, and proved by Ephraim Briggs and John Leach Junr., two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Ebenezar Tomson and Ichabod Bozworth, the before named Executors.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Zadock Bozworth, late of Hallifax, was appraised on 20 Mar. 1776 by Ebenr. Waterman, Thomas Drew, and Noah Tomson, and totaled £426.3.3, including his real estate valued at £257.18.8. Ebenezar Tomson Esqr, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 1 July 1776.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 24, p. 73-75, from FHL microfilm #0550713.

 

 

Will of Gamaliel Bradford of Duxbury, Plymouth County, Massachusetts Bay (1778) *

In the name of God Amen—Upon the twenty Fourth day of Aprill in the year of our Lord one thousand, seven hundred & Seventy Eight: I Gamaliel Bradford of Duxborough in the County of Plymouth in the Province of the Massachusetts Bay in New England Esquire: upon Good and serious considerations and being very sick and weak, but of perfect mind and memory thanks be Given unto God for the same, and therefore calling unto mind the mortality of my body and knowing that it is appointed for all men once to die, do make and Ordain this to be my Last Will & Testament, That is to say, Principally and first of all I do Give and recommend my Soul into the hands of God that Gave it, and my body I recommend to the Earth to be buried in a decent and Christian manner at the discretion of my Executors herein after named nothing doubting but at the Great & General resurrection I shall recieve the same again by the Almighty power of God, and as Touching such worldly Goods and temporal Estate that God has been pleased to bless me in this Life with, I do Give demise and dispose of the same in the Following manner and Form ~ Item my Will is that all my Just debts and Funeral charges be defrayed and paid out of my personal Estate –

Item – I do bequeath and confirm unto my Grand Children, the Children or Heirs of my Eldest son Samuel Bradford deceased, a certain piece of upland and Salt meadow which I have already or formerly Given my said deceased Son a deed of in his Life time according to the bounds described in said deed to them their heirs and assigns forever –

Item – I do Give and bequeath unto my Grand children, the children of my Son Samuel Bradford deceased, and my sons Gamaliel Bradford, Seth Bradford, Peabody Bradford, and Peter Bradford all the rest or residue of my Lands and buildings, that I have in said Duxborough, and my Will and meaning is that it is all the Children of my said Son Samuel deceased is to have but one share Equally with my Sons Gamaliel, Seth, Peabody and Peter, to be Equally alike divided amongst all Excepting that spot or piece of Land whereon my Son Peabody has built him an house near the Old Bridge at Jones River, which house is his own, which he built himself with but a small charge to me which is his now dwelling house, which I do Give unto the said Peabody Bradford his heirs and assigns forever ~

Item – I do Give and bequeath unto my son Andrew Bradford all my Lands and Cedar swamp Lying and being within the Township of Kingston, together with One Sixteenth part of the Furnace in said Kingston, I do Give and bequeath to my said Son Andrew Bradford his heirs and Assigns forever ~

Item – I do Give and bequeath unto my Grand Children, the Children of my said Son Samuel Bradford deceased, Gamaliel Bradford, Seth Bradford, Peabody Bradford, Peter Bradford and Andrew Bradford, all my Lands and Interests, that I have in the Township of Winslow on Kennebuck River in the County of Cumberland, to be Equally alike divided amongst them all, their heirs and assigns forever, that is all the Children of my said Son Samuel deceased is to have but one share Equal to one of my own sons in the said premises –

Item – I Give and bequeath unto my Son Peter Bradford my Landing place and wharf with a convenient Cart way to it and from it which he built partly himself, and my Gun, which I do Give to him his heirs and assigns forever ~

Item – I do Give and bequeath unto my three daughters, Abigail Wadsworth, Hannah Stanford and Ruth Sampson, all the residue and remainder of my indoor moveable or personal Estate, Whatsoever it is, and wheresoever it may be found, to be Equally alike divided to Each of them, and amongst them, their heirs and assigns forever together with what they have already recieved

Item – I do Give and bequeath unto my Grand Children, the Children of my Son Saml Bradford deceased One third part of my out door moveable Estate, and my Son Peter Bradford One third of my Out door moveable Estate, and my Son Andrew Bradford the other third part of my out door moveable Estate and all said out door moveable Estate is to Go the said deceaseds Children and said Peter and Andrew their heirs and assigns forever ~

Item – I do hereby constitute and appoint my trusty and dutiful Sons Seth Bradford and Peter Bradford to be the Sole Executors of this my Last Will and Testament and I do hereby utterly disallow, revoke and dissannull all and every other and former Will, Testament, Legacies and bequests and Executors by me in any before named Willed and bequested, Ratifying and confirming this and no other to be my Last Will and Testament—In Witness whereof I the said Gamaliel Bradford have hereunto Set to my hand and Seal the day and year above written

Signed, Sealed, Published, pronounced and                                                                  Gaml. Bradford                                (seal)

declared by the said Gamaliel Bradford to be

his Last Will & Testament in the presence

of us the subscribers ~

Perez Loring

Isaac Winslow

Rebekah Frazer

Note—that before the Ensealing and delivery of these presents, my Will is that my son Andrew Bradford shall Cut and convert to his own use One hundred of Good Cedar Fence Stuff yearly and Likewise Two Cords of Fire wood yearly, off of the old homestead Farm or dead Swamp ~

 

Presented for probate on 6 July 1778 by Seth Bradford and Peter Bradford, the Executors therein named, and proved by Perez Loring and Rebecca Frazer, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Seth Bradford and Peter Bradford, the Executors.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Gamaliel Bradford Esqr., Late of Duxbury, was appraised on 28 July 1778 by Peter Wadsworth, Perez Loring, and Joseph Soul, and totaled £13,347.11.8, including his homestead farm valued at £4920, the buildings on the homestead farm valued at £1065, the farm at the Old Bridge valued at £2700, one sixth part of the Township of Land called Winslow on Kennebuck River in the County of Cumberland valued at £2400, his lands lying in Kingston valued at £600, and others. Seth Bradford and Peter Bradford, the Executors, gave their oath to the inventory on 3 Aug. 1778.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 25, p. 17-20, from FHL microfilm #0550713.

 

 

Will and Codicil of Gamaliel Bradford of Duxbury, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1796) *

        In the Name of God amen. I Gamaliel Bradford of Duxbury in the County of Plymouth & Commonwealth of Massachusetts upon good & serious Consideration being in the full exercise of my understanding, do make & ordain the following to be my last Will & Testament, that is to say first of all I give & recommend my Soul into the hands of God who gave it & my Body to the Earth to be buried in a decent christian Manner at the discretion of my Executors, trusting that hereafter I shall receive the same again by the mighty power of God. & as touching the worldly Goods or Estate, with which it has pleased God to bless me, I give and dispose of the same in manner following that is to say—

        Imprimis  I give and bequeath unto my dear & loving Wife the Improvement of one third of my Real Estate during her Life, Also I give her one Cow, the Chaise that which I may be possessed of at the time of my decease, one third part of my Pew in the Meeting house on the lower floor, eighty four Dollars to be paid in such of my household Furniture, as she shall choose at the appraised value & twenty Dollars per Annum during her Widowhood.—

        Item I give unto my Son Perez Bradford my Cattle, Sheep & all my other out-door moveables, my Chaise excepted.—

        Item I give unto my Son Alden Bradford my Silver Tankard & my Suit of Black Cloathes.—

        Item I give unto my Daughter Sophia Bradford one of my Beds & Bedstead with a pair of my Blankets & Sheets with a Counterfrane or Bedquilt—

        Item my will is that my debts & funeral charges should be paid out of my Estate not disposed of as above & that the remainder whether Real personal or mixed, of what name or nature soever it may be, not above disposed of, excepting the three hundred & thirty three Dollars, herein after disposed of should be divided into twenty four equal parts of shares of equal value, estimating my publick, Securities at their current value in the Market at the time of my decease, which shares I dispose of as follows viz —

        I give unto my Son Perez above named four of the said equal Shares or parts; that is to say, four twenty four parts of my Estate after deducting the abovesd. Legacies —

        Item I give unto my Son Gamaliel Bradford three of sd. Shares —

        Item I unto my Son Alden above named one of the sd. Shares —

        Item I give unto my Son Daniel Bradford three of the sd. Shares —

        Item I give unto my Son Gershom Bradford four of the said Shares —

        Item I give unto each of my three daughters viz Sophia Bradford – Sarah Bradford & Jerusha Weston three of the aforesaid Shares, or in other Words nine Shares equally betwixt them provided nevertheless and my Will is that my sd. Daughters Sarah & Jerusha should each of them pay to their Sister Sophia one hundred Dollars out of the Legacy assigned to them respectively. —

        Item my Will is that my said Son Gamaliel retain in his hands the aforesaid Sum of three hundred & thirty three Dollars in the publick Securities which draw an Interest of six pr cent pr annum & that he stand charged with, & pay to my said Wife, the aforesaid Legacy of twenty Dollars a Year during her Widowhood. & at the Expiration of her sd. Widowhood, that he pay the said three hundred & thirty three Dollars to my then surviving Children, in the same proportion as the abovesd. twenty four shares are assigned, or given to them.  And also that the Reversion of the one third part of my Real Estate above disposed of should after the decease of my Wife be distributed amongst my Children in the same proportions as my other real Estate—

        Item my Will is that my two Sons Perez Bradford & Gamaliel Bradford should be the joint Executors of this my Will and in case of the Death of either of them before my decease, then the Survivor shall be my sole Executor. And I do hereby revoke & disannul all former wills made before the date of this my last Will & Testament — I Witness of all which I have hereunto set my hand & Seal this seventh day of March in the Year of our Lord one thousand Seven hundred & Ninety six — 1796 –

Signed, sealed & declared in presence of us –

                John Allyn                                                                                                             Gaml. Bradford                                (seal)

                Geo. Partridge

                Enoch Freeman

 

I the abovenamed Gamaliel Bradford in consideration of the decease of my Son Perez & some other alteration in my circumstances do make the following Codicil to my above Will – viz. I give to my Grandchildren Samuel Cooper Bradford & Judith Cooper Bradford the four shares of my Estate, which I gave to their Father in my foregoing Will, to equally divided betwixt them & also all the Stock & out door Moveables, which I gave to their Father excepting one Cow & my Horse which I hereby give to my wife and excepting also one hundred Dollars which I hereby order my Executor pay to my Son Alden out of my said Stock & outdoor moveables. I also give to my Wife the three hundred & thirty three Dollars which I ordered in my foregoing Will to be retained in the hands of my Son Gamaliel, & I order my Executor to pay it to her in three equal payments; the first in three months, the second in fifteen months, the third in three Years from the time of my decease, with the Interest from the time of my decease to the respective payments, which is to be in lieu of the twenty Dollars, which I gave her in my above Will annually, during her Widowhood – And I do furthermore give to my said Wife the additional Sum of twenty Dollars in such of my household furniture as she may choose before any Division thereof is made. ~  in all other respects I do hereby establish & confirm my foregoing will, and in particular that, now my son Perez having deceased, that my Son Gamaliel should be my sole Executor — In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand & seal this fifteenth day of June in the Year of our Lord eighteen hundred & two — 1802

Signed sealed & declared to be his last Will

& Testament in presence of us –

                John Allyn                                                                                                             Gamaliel Bradford                          (seal)

                Enoch Freeman

                Geo. Partridge –

 

Presented for probate on 31 Jan. 1807 by Gamaliel Bradford, the Executor therein named, and proved by the Revd. John Allyn and George Partridge Esqr, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Gamaliel Bradford, the before named Executor.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Gamaliel Bradford Esqr., late of Duxbury, was appraised on 26 Apr. 1807 by Samuel Loring, Enoch Freeman and David Saunders, and totaled $4574.35, including his homestead farm with the buildings thereon valued at $1692, upland & meadow at Island Creek valued at $1372.50, and other pasture and woodlands.

        Boston May 10th. 1807 – I hereby certify that I have received the following Sums the proceeds of sundry publick Securities belonging to the Estate of the late Gamaliel Bradford Esqr. of Duxbury deceased which is to be added to the annexed appraisement of sd. Estate viz~

2 Notes of old 6 prCent                      $3728.56 nominal or original Sum

                                                                                nett  2441.53

2 Notes of Deferred                               1624.98

                                                                                nett  1394.08

                                Sold at dist. ¼ pr Cent =             3835.61

                                                                                              9.60                          3826.01

2 Notes 3 pr. Cents $858.97 @ 63 cents pr. dollar is                                         541.15

                                                                                                      Total amt.       $4367.16

        Sold April 14. 1807 ~~                                               Gamaliel Bradford Exr

 

Plymouth Ss July 17th. 1807 Capt Gamaliel Bradford Exr. to the Will of Gamiel Bradford Esqr. deĉed, made oath that the foregoing Inventory contains the whole of sd. deĉed’s Estate so far as he now knows & when he shall know of more he will accot. for it—

                                                                                                                                Before me J Thomas J Prob

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 42, p. 19-22, from FHL microfilm #0550902.

 

 

Will of Gideon Bradford of Plympton, Plymouth County, Massachusetts Bay (1784) *

        In the name of God amen. – on the eleventh day of May Anno Domini One thousand seven hundred & eighty four, I Gideon Bradford of Plymton in the county of Plymouth & Comonwealth & State of Massachusetts Esqr. being in good health & of a sound disposing mind & memory proceed to make this my last will & testament. In the first place I Give & recommend my soul into the hands of God who gave it, trusting in the mercy of God through Jesus Christ for pardon, grace & glory, and as to my worldly Interest, I dispose of in the following manner and form

        Item – I Give and bequeath unto my well beloved wife Jane Bradford, the improvement of one third part of all my Estate both real & personal, after my just debts & funeral charges are paid, as her right of Dower of power of thirds

        Item – I Give & bequeath unto my wife, all my wearing apparell & also my great bible & my horse & furniture thereto belonging to do what she pleases with them

        Item – I give & bequeath unto my Son Levi Bradford ten acres more than one half of all my homestead farm in Plymton, excepting a piece of fresh meadow lying at the upper end of said farm, said piece of meadow coming down stream so far as to an old ditch which cometh from the river up towards the upland & from the end of said ditch upon a strait line to Josiah Cushman’s Land, together with my dwelling house & barn thereon standing, reserving one half of said house & barn to my Son Samuel Bradford, to improve so long as he the said Samuel shall be able to build for himself, to him the said Levi Bradford & to his heirs & assigns forever

Item – I Give and bequeath unto my son Joseph Bradford or to his heirs, all the demands I have on him, excepting a mortgage deed, which I have of him for a dwelling house & barn & a piece of Land Lying in Plymton

Item – I Give & bequeath unto my Son Samuel Bradford, all the remaining part of my homestead farm in Plymton aforesaid, which I have not already given away to my Son Levi, to him the said Samuel & to his heirs & assigns forever – and my will is that my son Samuel’s part of the sixty one acre Lot of Land, where the dwelling house now stands, be sett off on the westerly side of said Lot adjoining to James Bishop’s Land & not to come up stream now further than the line of the parting of the Forge below the cole house and to extend from the river such a line so far as to contain about twenty five acres, and the other two Lots of Land belonging to the homestead farm I Leave to my said two sons namely Levi & Samuel to divide them as they shall think best

        Item – I Give & bequeath unto my Son Gideon Bradford & to his heirs and assigns forever, one half of a tract of Land Lying on the easterly side of winnetuxet river, so called & known by the name of Rickards farm as it now stands divided, with a dwelling house & barn standing on said half part

        Item – I Give & bequeath unto my Son Calvin Bradford & to his heirs & assigns forever my other half part of a tract of Land as it now stands divided Lying on the easterly side of winnetuxet river called & known by the name of Rickards farm in Plymton, and also a piece of fresh meadow laying at the upper end of the homestead farm already described out in this will

        Item – I Give & bequeath unto my four sons, namely, Levi, Samuel, Gideon & Calvin & to each of their heirs & assigns forever all my cedar swamp Lying in Plymton & Halifax to be equally divided between them or their heirs

        Item – I give & bequeath unto my four sons, namely, Levi, Samuel, Gideon & Calvin & to each of their heirs & assigns forever, my saw mill & grist mill & half of what is Left of the old Forge in Plymton standing on winnetuxet River so called & one half of the privilege of the dam & stream & the flowing of the Land in the pond equally alike as tenants in common, only I give the privilege of tending of the grist mill to two of my sons, namely Levi & Samuel & their heirs so long as they shall own said mill, they tending said mill according to the common custom

Item – I give and bequeath unto my four sons, namely, Levi, Samuel, Gideon & Calvin & to their heirs, all my Bills, Bonds, notes of hand & book debts & mortgage deeds due to me from any person or persons whatsoever, excepting those which I have already disposed of already in this will, and I order them my said four sons, namely, Levi, Samuel, Gideon, Calvin, to pay all my just debts out of the same, if they be not paid before my decease, and if there should not be enough to pay my debts, I order them to pay it out of that which I have given them already in this will, equally alike

        Item – I give & bequeath unto my four sons, namely, Levi, Samuel, Gideon & Calvin & to each of their heirs all my utensills of husbandry equally to be divided between them or their heirs

        Item – I Give and bequeath unto my Son Levi Bradford & to his heirs and assigns forever, one of my Pews below stairs, in the north meeting house in sd. town, the Pew which I set in myself, and also my walking cane & my white hilted sword, the rest of my armour I have given away before I made this will

        Item – Give and bequeath unto my three sons, namely Samuel, Gideon & Calvin and to each of their heirs & assigns forever one pew & a quarter of a Pew in ye above said meeting house, one below stairs & the other above stairs, equally alike as tenants in common ~

        Item – I Give and bequeath unto my five sons namely Levi, Joseph Samuel Gideon, Calvin all my Law Books & Books of forms

        Item – I Give and bequeath unto my wife all the rest of my books to do what she pleases with them

        Item – I Give and bequeath unto my two Daughters, namely Sarah the wife of Freeman Ellis & Jane the wife of Noah Bisbee & to each of their heirs and assigns forever, my quarter part of a saw mill, with all the privileges & appurtenances thereto belonging standing on the stream between Nathaniel Churchill’s & Josiah Chandler’s in Plymton, and also the remaining part of my personal estate, both indoors & out of doors excepting that which I have given away already, in this will & the widow’s right of Dower out of the same, equally to be divided between them. and my will is, that if any of my Five sons namely Levi, Joseph, Samuel, Gideon & Calvin, shall bring any account against my Estate after my decease, that he or they acquit the whole that I have given him or them in this will. and further my will is, that if my son Joseph Bradford should live untill after my decease & should come to want the necessaries of this life, I order my four sons, namely, Levi, Samuel, Gideon & Calvin to take care of him so far as they shall be able. and I do nominate & appoint my well beloved wife Jane Bradford my Sole Executrix of this my Last will & testament Ratifying & confirming this and no other to be my Last will & testament– In witness whereof I hereunto set my hand & seal the day & year above written ~

Signed, Sealed, Published, Pronounced

& declared by the said Gideon Bradford                                                                        Gideon Bradford                             (seal)

to be his Last will & testament in pre-

sence of us –         Samuel Wright

                                Samuel Wright junr

                                Sarah Wright

 

Presented for probate on 11 Nov. 1793 by Jane Bradford, the Executrix therein named, and proved by Samuel Wright and Samuel Wright junr, two of the witnesses. Administration of the estate was granted to Levi Bradford and Gideon Bradford, (Jane Bradford, the Executrix before named having refused the said trust), with will annexed, on 11 Nov. 1793.

 

To the Hon. Joshua Thomas Esqr. Judge of Probate for the county of Plymouth

Whereas Gideon Bradford Esqr. Late of Plymton deceased, appointed me the subscriber Executrix to his Last will & testamant, and finding myself unable to perform the trust therein committed to me, I desire that you would appoint an admr. or admrs. with the same will annexed

Plymton Novr. ye. 11th A D. 1793                                                                                    Jane Bradford

 

To Levi Bradford yeoman & Gideon Bradford, Gentm. Both of Plymton, in ye county aforesaid

  Whereas Gideon Bradford Late of sd. Plymton esqr. deced on ye. eleventh day of May Anno Domini 1784 made his Last will & testament in writing, and signed, sealed & delivered ye. same before sufficient witnesses, by which will (after gifts & Legacies then made) he appointed Jane Bradford executrix of ye. same will, but she refusing ye sd trust, admon with ye same will annexed is therefore committed unto you ye. sd. Levi Bradford & Gideon Bradford of all & singular ye. goods chattels rights & credits of ye. sd. deced well & faithfully to dispose of ye. same according to Law & ye. direction of ye. sd. will… In Testimony whereof I have hereunto Set my hand & seal of office this eleventh day of Novr. In ye. year of our Lord 1793

                                                                                                                                                Joshua Thomas

 

James Churchill Gentleman, George Samson yeoman, both of Plymton, and Samuel Lucas of Carver yeoman, were appointed to appraise the estate of Gideon Bradford, late of Plymton esqr, on 15 Nov. 1793. The inventory, dated 17 Dec. 1793, totaled £1417.10.8, including his dwelling house and barn valued at £100, his homestead farm on the west side of the river value at £494, the Rickard farm on the easterly side of the river with a dwelling house and two barns valued at £522.4, and his grist mill and saw mill valued at £175. Levi and Gideon Bradford, the administrators with the will annexed, gave their oath to the inventory on 17 Jan. 1794.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 33, pp. 467-470, 529-530, from FHL microfilm #0550717, and Vol. 27, p. 537-538.

 

 

Will of Gideon Bradford of Plympton, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1805) *

        In the Name of God amen I Gideon Bradford of Plympton in the County of Plymouth & Commonwealth of Massachusetts Gentleman being weak in Body but of perfect Mind and Memory, thanks be given to God therefor calling unto mind the Mortality of my body and knowing that it is appointed for all men once to die do make & ordain this my last Will and Testament, and desire it may be received by all as such— that is to say principally and first of all I give and recommend my Soul into the hands of God that gave it and my Body I recommend to the Earth to be buried in decent Christian Burial, at the discretion of my Executors hereafter named nothing doubting, but at the General Resurrection I shall receive the same again by the mighty power of God—And as touching such Worldly Estate wherewith it hath pleased God to bless me in this Life I give demise and dispose of the same in the following Manner and form—

Imprimis I give and bequeath to my true and loving wife Abigail Bradford the Improvement of one third part of all my real and personal Estate during her natural Life—

        Item I give and bequeath to my three Sons Zabdiel Bradford, Abram Bradford And Isaac Bradford, and to their Heirs and assigns forever all my Real Estate, together with all my Buildings, Mills and Privileges in anywise thereunto belonging in equal Shares of Division amongst them – except such parts of my real Estate as are otherwise disposed of in this my last Will & Testament

        Item I give to my Son Zabdiel and to his Heirs and assigns forever my Pew on the lower floor in the Meeting house in Plympton together with all my Stock and all my farming tools and utensils.—

        Item I give and bequeath unto my Son Gideon Bradford and to his Heirs and assigns forever, the following Lots and parcels of Land viz the Lot of Land I bought of my Brother Calvin Bradford containing by estimation about fourteen Acres, together with a small piece of Land to be taken from my Homestead Farm in the following manner and form, (viz), Beginning at a White Pine Stump on the Bank of Annasnapet Brook being a corner bound between my Lands & my Brother Calvin’s Land—thence south ten rods thence westerly such a Course as will strike Annasnapet Brook two rods upstream above the Spring I commonly fetch my Water from–Also two small Lots of Land lying on the north side of Annasnapet Brook, being the Lots of Land which I bought of Isaac Jackson—together with a piece of woodland lying and being between Calvin Bradford’s Land & the Land of Isaac Rickard.—

        Item I give and bequeath to my Daughter Abigail Bradford & to her Heirs and Assigns forever, two thirds of all my Household Furniture together with the use and Improvement of the Easterly frontroom in my Dwelling house, so long as she shall remain in single Life, without her being at any Expence for the repairs of said House.—

        Item I give and bequeath to my two Sons Sampson Bradford and William Bradford and to their Heirs and Assigns forever, the following Lots or parcels of Land in equal Division between them, (viz) my two Lots of wood land, known by the name of the witten Lots, containing by Estimation about twelve acres, also my easternmost Lot of wood land known by the name of Scot’s Land containing by Estimation about ten acres Also my Lot of Land called and known by the Name of the Lucas Lot containing about eighteen Acres – All the above Lots of Land lying and being in the Town of Carver—Together with my Lot of Cedarswamp lying and being in Colchester Cedar Swamp so called in Plympton

        Item I give to my Daughter Abigail two hundred Dollars to be paid her by my three Sons Zabdiel, Abram, and Isaac equally alike in the following Manner~ (viz.) one hundred Dollars of said Sum to be paid her in two years & the remainder in four years after my decease, all without Interest.

  And my will is that all my just debts and funeral Charges be paid out of my Eastern Lands, and the money arising from the sale of said eastern Lands, But in Case any failure should happen by Loss or Disappointment in the Sale of said Lands, so that the Money arising from the sale of said Lands should not be sufficient to pay all my just debts and funeral Charges – my will is and I do possitively order all my Sons to make up all such Deficiencies in the payment of my debts in equal proportion among them according to the value of what they receive of my Estate by virtue of this my last Will and Testament.—

  And all the rest and residue of my Eastern Lands and the Money arising from the sale of said Lands, if any remains after the payment of my debts and funeral Charges, I give demise & dispose of the same in the following manner (viz) Two thirds of said Lands or the Effects thereof I give to my three Sons Zabdiel, Abram & Isaac and to their Heirs and Assigns forever—And the Remaining third part of my Eastern Lands and Effects thereof I give to my three Sons Gideon Sampson & William & to their Heirs & assigns forever in equal Division or shares among them—

        Lastly I do constitute make & ordain my true & loving wife Abigail Bradford together with my Son Zabdiel Bradford my sole Executors of this my Last Will and Testament. and I do hereby disallow revoke & utterly disannul all and every other former will Testament Legacies Bequests and Executors by me in any way before named willed and bequeathed ratifying and confirming this and no other to be my last Will & Testament—

In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand & seal this twenty second day of March in the Year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred & five 1805—

        Signed sealed published pronounced &

declared by the said Gideon Bradford as his

last Will & Testament in the presence of us the

Subscribers                                                                                                                            Gideon Bradford                             (seal)

                George Sampson

                Elijah Bisbe

                Huldah Sturtevant

 

Presented for probate on 5 May 1805 by Abigail Bradford and Zabdiel Bradford, the Executors therein named, and proved by Elijah Bisbe Esqr. and George Sampson, two of the Witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Abigail Bradford and Zabdiel Bradford, the before named Executors.

 

Elijah Bisbe Esqr., George Sampson and Isaac Wright, Yeomen, all of Plimpton, were appointed to appraise the estate of Gideon Bradford, late of Plimpton, Gentleman, on 6 May 1805. The Inventory, dated 4 Nov. 1805, totaled $7248.22, his real estate valued at $3795.50, including his homestead farm with the buildings thereon valued at $2261, and sundry notes on Henry Knox Esqr. amounting to $3032.50. Abigail Bradford and Zabdiel Bradford gave their oath to the inventory on 4 Nov. 1805.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 40, pp. 224-227, 316, from FHL microfilm #0550901.

 

 

Will of Hezekiah Bradford of Plympton, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1836) *

        In the name of God, Amen: I Hezekiah Bradford of Plympton in the County of Plymouth and Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Yeoman, being weak of body, but of perfect mind and memory, thanks be given to God therefor, – calling to mind the mortality of my body, and knowing that it is appointed for all men once to die, do make and ordain this my last Will and Testament and desire it may be received by all men as such, – and first of all I give and bequeath my soul into the hands of God who gave it, and my body I recommend to the earth to be buried in a decent christian burial, at the discretion of my Executor hereafter named, nothing doubting but at the general resurection I shall receive the same again by the mighty power of God.

        As toutching such worldly estate wherewith it has pleased God to bless me with in this life, I give, devise and dispose of the same in the following manner and form.

        Item – I give and bequeath unto my beloved wife Margaret Bradford all my real and personal estate, unto her, and her heirs and assigns forever.

        And I do positively order my Executor hereafter named, to pay all my just debts and funeral expenses – and to pay my Mother-in-law Lydia Bradford, Sixteen Dollars a year so long as she lives – it being the same sum that I am obligated to pay unto her.

        Lastly – I do constitute make and ordain my wife Margaret Bradford my sole Executor of this my last Will and Testament – and do hereby utterly disallow all and every other Will – ratifying this and no other to be my last Will and Testament.

                                                                In Witness Whereof, I have hereunto set my hand & seal this twenty sixth day of October in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and thirty six.

                                                                                                                                                Hezekiah Bradford                          (seal)

        Signed, sealed, pronounced and declared by the said Hezekiah Bradford to be his last Will and Testament, in the presence of us the subscribers.

        Jonathan Parker

        Lewis Bradford

        William Perkins

 

        To the Judge of Probate for the County of Plymouth ~ Whereas in the last Will and Testament of my late husband, Hezekiah Bradford of Plympton in the County of Plymouth, deceased, I was appointed for the Executrix of said Will and Testament – and whereas it will be very inconvenient for me to perform the duties of an Executrix of said Will and Testament, I hereby decline excepting of the appointment – and hereby request that you would appoint Jonathan Parker Esqr of said Plympton for the Executor of said Will and Testament in my stead.

                Plympton January 9th 1837.                                                                              Margaret Bradford

 

Presented for probate on 16 Jan. 1837 by Margaret Bradford, the Executor therein named, and proved by Jonathan Parker and Lewis Bradford, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed.

 

Jonathan Parker, of Plympton, was granted administration with the Will annexed of the estate of Hezekiah Bradford, late of Plympton, mason, on 16 Jan. 1837, the Executrix therein named having in writing declined that trust, with Joshua Eddy, of Middleborough, and Cephas Waterman, of Kingston, as sureties.

Ebenezer Wright, William Perkins and Zacheus Sherman, all of Plympton, were appointed to appraise the estate of Hezekiah Bradford, late of Plympton, on 16 Jan. 1837.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Hezekiah Bradford, late of Plympton, was dated 3 Apr. 1837, his real estate valued at $1050, including his homestead farm in Plympton with about 30 acres of land, and his personal estate valued at $242.25. Jonathan Parker, the Administrator with the Will annexed, gave his oath to the inventory on 4 July 1837.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 79, pp. 22-23, 260, from FHL microfilm #0555265, and Vol. 10A, p. 484.

 

 

Will of John Bradford Jr., of Plymouth, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1724) *

The Last Will & Testament of John Bradford Junr. of Plymouth. I John Bradford of Plymouth, not knowing how near I am to my great & last Change do ordain & appoint this my Last Will & Testament in manner & form following. Imprimis: I Bequeath my Soul into ye Hands of my mercefull Redeemer in whom I desire to be found: & my Body to ye Earth to be decently Buried in Hope of a glorious Resurrection: & as to ye outward Estate it hath Pleased God to Bless me with I dispose of as followeth: viz: In ye first Place I give to my Loving Wife Rebeckah Bradford one Half of my Real Estate during Her Widdowhood & all my Personal Estate whilst She Shall Remain my widdow & In Case She marrys it is my Will that She Should Still Retain one Half of abovesd. Personal Estate that is then Left: ye other Half to be Equally divided between my two Children Robert & Rebeckah. Item: I give & Bequeath to my Son Robert all my Real Estate both In Possession and Reversion Excepting Some Particular Peices of Land as Shall be below mentioned. viz: I give & Bequeath to my daughter Rebeckah one Thirty acre Lott: Lying on ye north Side of Jones River in Plymouth which I Bought of Nathaniel Holmes. Item: I give & Bequeath to my beloved Pastor mr. Joseph Stacy one Quarter Part of my Twenty acre Lott lying on ye north side of Jones River: viz: ye northerly Part thereof. Item I Constitute & appoint my Beloved wife Rebeckah Bradford Executrix of this my last Will & Testament & I do Ratify & Confirm this to be my last Will & Testament: being of Perfect mind & memory. In Witness whereof I have hereunto Set to my Hand & Seal: In Presence of.

Caleb Loring: Gershom Bradford

                Seth Chipman                                                                                                      John Bradford  (seal)

 

Probated on 28 Apr. 1724, and proved by Caleb Loring, Gershom Bradford, and Seth Chipman, who testified that he had signed the will “the later end of March last.”

 

The inventory of the Personal Estate of John Bradford Junr., late of Plymouth, dated 6 May 1724, was appraised by Isaac Cushman Junr., Jacob Mitchell, and Gershom Bradford, and totaled £323.13.0.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 4, p. 439-440, from FHL microfilm #0550510.

 

 

Will of Major John Bradford of Kingston, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1732) *

The Last Will & Testament of John Bradford of Kingston in the County of Plymouth in New-England Gent. as followeth. I the sd John Bradford being (thrô Gods mercy of a Sound & disposing Mind & Memory) In Consideration of my Mortality & Sense of my Duty in Setting my House in order before my Decease Do Make & Ordain this my last Will & Testamt. as followeth—And in the first Place I bequeath my Soul to God that gave it hoping to be gathered to my Father depending on the Merits & Grace of Jesus Christ for Salvation & my Body I Commit to the Earth to be decently Interred according to the Discretion of my Executors & Surviving Friends, hoping for a glorious Resurrection to Life & Immortality—And as to what temporal it hath pleased God to bless me withall (My just Debts & Funeral Charges being first paid I Dispose of the Same as followeth viz:—

Imprimis I Give & Bequeath to my dear & loving wife Mary Bradford during ye time of her Widowhood the Use & Improvement of One Half of my Homestead on which I now dwell with one half of ye Housing on the Same, as also the whole Profits & Income of my Interest in the Grist Mill & Fulling Mill in Kingston—With the Use & Improvement of two oxen & two Cows, Together with my best Bed & Furniture & all my Houshold Goods (Except what I shall herein otherwise Dispose of) And in Case She Marry again My Will is She shall have fourty Pounds paid out of my Moveable Estate in Such things as She shall chuse —

Itm I Give & Bequeath unto my Grand Son Robert Bradford the Son of my late Son John Bradford deceasd to him his Heirs & assigns forever My Sixty acre Lot on ye South Side of the great Cedar Swamp in the Majrs Purchase, as also Twenty acres of Land at ye head of my Homestead being the twenty acres that was Mitchells, As also one Third of my Lot of Cedar Swamp in the great Swamp lying on the North Side of sd Swamp As also my Rapier & Belt—

Itm I Give & Bequeath unto my Son Samuel Bradford his Heirs & Assigns forever (besides what I have already Given him by Deed of Gift) My Lot of Cedar Swamp in Colchester Swamp near his dwelling House in Plimton; As also my Acre of Sedge on ye South Side of Jones’s River at a place commonly called Capt. Howlands Point, as also one third Part of my above mentiond. Lot of Cedar Swamp in ye great Swamp & my Cane yt I commonly Use—

Itm I Give & Bequeath unto my Daughter Alice the Wife of Joshua Hearsey of Hingham the Sum of Fifty Pounds to be paid within one Year after ye Decease of my Self and Wife—

Itm I Give & Bequeath unto my Daughter Mercy ye Widow of Isaac Cushman junr. late of Plimton Deceasd. the Sum of Fifty Pounds to be paid wthin one Year after ye Decease of my Self & Wife.

Itm I Give & Bequeath unto my Daughter Priscilla the Wife of Seth Chipman the Sum of fifty Pounds to be paid within one Year after ye Decease of my Self & Wife and my Samuel to be disposed of for ye use of my sd Daughter & her Children as they shall have occasion therefor Left in ye Hands of my Son —

Itm I Give & Bequeath unto my Son Samuel Bradford One third Part of my Whole Interest in a Tract of Land in the Eastern Parts of New-England commonly called Leveretts Purchase To him his Heirs & Assigns forever —

Itm I Give & Bequeath unto my Five Grand Sons James, Zadock Samuel Eliphalet & William the Sons of my late Son William Bradford Deceasd in equal Shares to them their Heirs & Assigns forever all my Homestead both Upland Meadow & or Marsh Land and all my Undisposed Land adjoying Extending Westward near to William Cookes Line With my two Acres of Salt Meadow & piece of upland in Duxborough near Stony Brook & my Six acres of Meadow in Jones’s River Meadow, With the Housing & Out Housing Standing upon sd Homestead Also my Lot of Cedar Swamp in Monpoisett Swamp at a Place called J.awang; As also my other third Part of my Lot in the great Cedar Swamp & also one third Part of my Interest in the aforesd. Tract of Land called Leverets Purchase, Together with all my Carts Plows Chains & other my Utensils for Husbandry (Always Reserving to my sd dear Wife the Use & Improvemt. of One Half of my Homestead as before Expressed)

Itm I Give & Bequeath to my aforesd. Grand Son James Bradford my Gun that I commonly use—

Itm I Give & Bequeath unto my aforenamed three Daughters Alice Mercy & Priscilla all ye Remainder of my moveable Estate at my Wifes Decease or Second Marriage to be equally divided among them—

Itm I Give & Bequeath unto my aforesd. Son Samuel my Grand Son Robert and my aforesd. five Grand Sons the Sons of my late Son Son William deceasd. all the Remainder of my real Estate—whatsoever & wheresoever With all my Interest in the aforesd Mills & Housing Land & Utensils thereto belonging — That is to Say two thirds thereof to be equally Divided between my sd Son Samuel & my Grand Son Robert & the other third Part thereof to be equally Divided between my other five Grand Sons before named to them their Heirs and Assigns forever — Reserving to my sd Wife the Income in the sd Mills as before Expressed — —

Itm I Give & Bequeath unto my Grand:daughter Hannah Bradford the Daughter of my said Son William Bradford deceased the Sum of Twenty Pounds in Money to be paid by my Executors hereafter named within one Year after the Decease of my Self and Wife —

Lastly, I do Constitute & appoint my sd dear Wife & my Son Samuel Bradford joint Executrs of this my last Will & Testament & in Case of ye Death of one the other sole Executor—And do hereby Make null & void all other & former Wills & Testaments by Me made Ratifying & allowing this & no other as my last Will & Testament  In Witness whereof I have hereunto Set my hand & Seal the Second day of October anno Domini One thousand Seven hundred & thirty two— 1732 —                                                                                                                                        John Bradford                  (seal)

Signed Sealed & Declared by ye sd John Bradford

to be his last Will & Testament In Presence

of us (the Words (paid within one Year after

ye Decease of my Self & Wife and my) being

rased & the Words (Samuel to be disposed of

for ye use of my sd Daughter & her Children

as they shall have occasion therefor) being

Interlined between ye 8th & 9th Line of ye Second

Page before Signing and Sealing ~~

Benj. Samson

John Brewster

Thos. Croade

 

Proved on 21 Dec. 1736 by Benja. Samson, John Brewster & Thomas Croade Esqr, the witnesses.

 

An Inventory of ye Estate of Majr John Bradford of Kingston, taken on 17 Jan. 1736/37 by Francis Adams, Gershom Bradford, and Joseph Michell, not totaled, and no real estate listed, but it included a debt due the estate from Lieut. Samuel Bradford of Plimton for £200. Mary Bradford and Samuel Bradford, the Executors, gave their oath to the inventory on 11 Mar. 1736[/37].

 

* Transcribed from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 7, p. 260-261, 274-275, from FHL microfilm #0550513.

 

 

Will of John Bradford of Plympton, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1807) *

        In the Name of God amen I John Bradford of Plympton in County of Plymouth commonwealth of Massachusetts Gentleman being of sound & disposing Mind & Memory do make & ordain this my last Will & Testament in Manner & form following that is to say. First I will that all my just debts and funeral Charges be paid & discharged by my executor herein after named.

        Also I give and bequeath unto my Son John all & singular my Real Estate in Plympton & elsewhere, also the whole of my Stock of Creatures, also the whole of my farming Tools & Utensils also the whole of my Mechanical Tools, also my firearm and Equipments with my side arm – also my wearing apparel –

        I also will and bequeath unto my well beloved wife Eunice all and singular my Household Furniture to her only use & Improvement so long as she remains my Widow, after to be divided equally between my four Youngest Daughters —

        I will and bequeath unto my elder Daughter Polly Wife of Ellis Standish one Dollar to be paid by my Executor hereafter named —

        I will and bequeath unto my 2d. Daughter Eunice Wife to Asa Washburn one Dollar to be paid by my executor hereafter named —

        I will & bequeath unto my four other Daughters viz Nancy, Sukey, Sophia and Jane twenty Dollars each to be paid by my Executor hereafter named in six Years after my decease —

        Lastly I do make and constitute my Son John Executor of this my last will and Testament binding my Son John to take Care of & provide for his Mother in Heath & in Sickness, so long as she remains my widow dated May the thirteenth in the Year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred & seven —

        Caleb Stetson

        Zadock Churchill                                                                                                         John Bradford                  (seal)

        Isaac Churchill —

 

Presented for probate on 6 July 1807 by John Bradford, the Executor therein named, and proved by Caleb Stetson, Zadock Churchill and Isaac Churchill, the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to John Bradford, the before named Executor.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 42, p. 130-131, from FHL microfilm #0550902.

 

 

Will of Nathan Bradford of Kingston, Plymouth County, Massachusetts Bay (1787) *

In the name of God Amen – I Nathan Bradford of Kingston in the county of Plymouth & Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Husbandman, being sick & weak in body but of perfect mind & memory, thanks be Given to God; calling to mind the mortality of my body, & knowing that it is appointed unto all men once to die, do make & ordain this my Last will & testament—that is to say principally & first of all, I Give & recomend my soul into the hand of almighty God who Gave it; and my body I recommend to the earth to be buried in decent christian burial, nothing doubting but at the General resurrection I shall recieve the same by the mighty power of God and as touching my worldly estate which God has blessed me with in this Life, I Give & dispose of the same in the following manner & form.~

Imprimis—I Give & bequeath to my beloved wife Sarah, the improvement of one third part of my Real estate, and the use of the southerly room in my dwelling House, with priviledges in the other parts of the House, necessary for her comfort so Long as she shall remain my widow. also I Give & bequeath to her the whole of the estate which she brought with her when she became my wife. ~

Item – I Give & bequeath the remainder of my real estate to my sons, viz~ Jonathan & David to be equally divided between them, and as to my Personal Estate, I Give & bequeath Thirty pounds of it to my son David; and it is my will that the Remainder of my personal estate, when my honest debts are paid out of the same should be equally divided between my above named sons Jonathan & David—and I hereby ordain my before named son Jonathan to be the executor of this my Last will & testament, and do hereby utterly disallow, revoke & disannul all & every other former testaments, wills, Legacies, Bequests & executors, by me in any wise, before named, willed & bequeathed, ratifying & confirming this & no other to be my Last will & testament– In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand & seal this eleventh day of September in the year of our Lord one thousand seven Hundred & Eighty Seven

Signed Sealed & delivered

        in presence of                                                                                                               Nathan Bradford                             (seal)

        Zedekiah Sanger

        Charles Foster

 

To all to whom these presents shall come, Know ye that we whose names as under written really & fully believing that the foregoing instrument, was made signed & executed by Nathan Bradford Late of Kingston deceased, in his Life time & when he was of sound and disposing mind & memory as his Last will & testament meaning & intending, that after his decease the same should be fully executed in all its parts & devises as such, but as said will appears to be defective as to its Legality by not having the number of witnesses that the Law in that case made & provided directs – now we the subscribers–viz~– Sarah Bradford the widow of the said deceased & Jonathan Bradford & David Bradford sons and only Heirs at Law to the said deceased convinced that it was the will, true intent and meaning of the said testator that his Estate both real & personal should be divided according to the tenor & true meaning of the said instrument by him subscribed—do mutually and voluntarily agree and determine that in the division or partition of the Estate both real & personal of the said deceased the several devises bequests or Legacies contained in the said foregoing instrument shall be Strictly adhered to & we do by these presents severally bind ourselves each to the other in the sum of one Hundred pounds Lawful money that after the estate of said Nathan Bradford deceased shall be divided assigned and Sett off by three impartial men by us mutually Chosen (and in case we cannot agree each shall chuse one man) who according to the best of their judgment, according to the true intent & meaning of the foregoing instrument, purporting to be the Last will & testament of the said deceased we will relinquish and Give up to each other the respective assignments, dividends or Shares by such men assigned & Sett off by mutual discharges, Deeds, or quit claims under our respective hands & seals, to the true & faithful performance of the above covenant we bind ourselves in the sum above mentioned & have hereto voluntarily set our hands & seal this twenty eighth day of November in the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred & eighty seven 1787 ~

Signed Sealed in                                                                                                                  Sarah Bradford                                    (seal)

        presence of                                                                                                                   Jonathan Bradford                             (seal)

Seth Washburn                                                                                                                    David Bradford                                   (seal)

Seth Washburn junr

Sarah Bradford

 

Presented for probate on 5 Dec. 1787 by Jonathan Bradford, the executor therein named, and proved by Zedekiah Sanger and Charles Foster, the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Jonathan Bradford, the before named executor.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 30, p. 272-274, from FHL microfilm #0550716.

 

 

Will of Noah Bradford of Plymouth, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1746) *

In the Name of God Amen I Noah Bradford of Plimouth in the County of Plimouth in NewEngland Mariner being Sensible of my Own Mortallity; and not knowing what my befall me in the Voyage I am now bound upon: Do make this my last will and Testament As followeth. viz. after my Just debts Shall be paid I do Give and bequeath unto my beloved wife Hannah all the Estate Real and Personal that I now have or may have at the time of my Deceaseing Possession Reversion or Remainder To hold to her heirs and Assigns forever and do hereby Constitute and appoint my said wife Sole Execx. hereoff Renounceing all other wills by me heretofore Made and in Consideration of this I have hereunto Set my hand & Seal the 16th. day of April and in the Ninteenth year of his Majesties reign Anno Domini One thousand seven hundred & forty Six—

Signed Sealed & Declared By the Testator To be his last will and Testament In Presence of us —

Nathll. Dunham Jur.                                                                             Memo. The words-all other between ye. 11th.&12th

Ezekiel Dunham                                                                                  lines was Enterlined before the Ensealing herof

James Rickard                                                                                                                      Noah Bradford                 (seal)

 

Presented for probate on 3 Mar. 1846[/47] by the Executrix, and proved by Nathll. Dunham and James Rickard. Administration was granted to Hannah Bradford of Plimouth, the widow Executrix.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 10, p. 363-364, from FHL microfilm #0551535.

 

 

Will of Perez Bradford of Duxbury, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1802) *

In the Name of God Amen.— I Perez Bradford of ye town of Duxbury in the County of Plymouth, Gentleman, being very sick & weak in body, but of perfect mind & memory, thanks be to God calling unto mind the mortality of my body & knowing that it is appointed once to die, do make & ordain this my last will & testament; that is to say – first of all, I give & recommend my soul into the hands of almighty God, that gave it, and my body, I recommend to the earth, to be buried in decent christian burial, at the discretion of my Executors, nothing doubting, but at the general resurrection I shall recieve the same again, by the mighty power of God; and as touching worldly affairs, wherewith it has pleased God to bless me in this life, I give, demise & dispose of the same in the following manner & form. –

First.— I do appoint and ordain Gamaliel Bradford of Boston Sole Executor of this my last will & testament; and Guardian of my children Samuel Cooper & Judith Cooper, to whom I Give all my estate & Interest, consisting of one Note of Hand on Seth Bradford, and one Continental & one State Note, the rest of my estate consisting of houshold furniture & wearing apparell & Plate, part thereof to be sold at publick vendue at the discretion of the Executor, and the money to be put to Interest, the remainder of my estate, such as notes, wearing apparell, Plate &c. to be disposed of in the following manner— the trunk of wearing apparell of the female kind, to be kept for my daughter, and given to her when she comes of age, and the other kinds of wearing apparell to be sold, and the plate, to be kept, of all kinds, and divided equally between the children when they come of age; and also, that such part of my estate & Interest shall be devoted to the education of my daughter, as my Executor shall think proper.—And furthermore, it is my will, that Sophia Bradford should have the care of my daughters, under the direction of the Executor, and when she wants any of my estate for her support or education, to apply to the Executor for the same, and for him to grant such a sum or sums, as he may think proper & necessary; And it is further more my will, that, what estate & Interest may remain when my children come of age, to be divided equally betwixt them, where Samuel Cooper & Judith Cooper are mentioned it is only their christian names, the sir-name is Bradford.— And now, I do ratify and confirm this my last will & testament, and.— In witness hereof I have hereunto Set my hand & seal this twenty fifth day of May in the year of our Lord One thousand eight hundred & two.—

Done at Duxbury, in presence

of the undersigned witnesses –                                                                                         Perez Bradford                 (seal)

                Daniel Bradford

                Louisa Dawes

                David Sandras

 

Presented for probate on 2 June 1802 by Gamaliel Bradford, the Executor therein named, and proved by Daniel Bradford and Louisa Dawes, two of the witnesses.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Perez Bradford Esqr., late of Duxbury, not dated, was appraised by Daniel Bradford, Enoch Freeman, and William Freeman, and it totaled $351.83, no real estate. The appraisers gave their oath to the inventory on 16 June 1802, and Capt. Gaml. Bradford, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 19 Jan. 1803.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 38, pp. 96-97, 244, from FHL microfilm #0550720.

 

 

Will of Robert Bradford of Kingston, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1782) *

In the name of God Amen – I Robert Bradford of Kingston in the County of Plymouth, Commonwealth of Massachusetts, being of sound mind and memory, tho’ weak in body and apprehensive of the near approach of Death Do make this my Last will and testament

Imprimis – I commit my Soul to God as into the hands of a faithful Creator and my body to the Dust to be decently buried at the Expence of my Estate

Item – I Give to my wife one Bed – one Cow – my Horse & Chair & necessary furniture to keep house –

Item – I Give my daughter Orpah, a Cow – a Bed – a Round table – a tea Stand an Iron pot & kettle to be her own property, and also the use or Improvement of the westerly front Chamber in my Dwelling house, the Liberty of the Kitchin to wash & bake in, with Liberty of passing & Repassing to & from each of said appartments During her natural Life

Item – I Give to my said wife, and said Daughter Orpah the improvement of all my Estate (not above disposed of) that shall remain after the payment of my Debts, funeral & other Charges during the Life of my said wife ~

Item – I Give to my Son Stetson the westerly half of my dwelling house Reserving to my Daughter Orpah the use & improvement of the front Chamber & Liberty of the Kitchin as above, during her Life

Item – I Give to my Son Peleg, the Dwelling House in which he Lives and three acres of Land adjoining thereto  – and after my wifes decease the Remainder of my Estate. I Give to my Other Children vizr– my Daughter Zilpah one Sixth part–the Heirs of my Daughter Rebecca one Sixth part–my Son John one Sixth part–my Daughter Orpah one Sixth part–my Son Stetson one Sixth part, and my Son Robert one Sixth part — and I hereby Request my friend William Drew of said Kingston Esqr. to take upon him the Execution of this my Last will & testament, and do hereby appoint him my Executor accordingly, hereby Revoking all former wills by me made or supposed to be made—In Testimony whereof I have hereto Set my hand & Seal this Eighth day of August in the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred & Eighty two–1782

Signed & sealed in

   presence of                                                                                                                        Robert Bradford                               (seal)

Robert Cooke

James Waterman

Benjamin Waterman

 

Presented for probate on 2 Sept. 1782 by William Drew Esqr., the Executor therein named, and proved by Robert Cooke and Benjamin Waterman, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to William Drew Esqr., the before named Executor.

 

John Gray Esqr., Ebenezer Washburne and Robert Cook Gentm, all of Kingston, were appointed to appraise the estate of Robert Bradford, late of Kingston, on 2 Sept. 1782. The Inventory of the Estate of Capt. Robert Bradford, late of Kingston, dated 29 Nov. 1782, totaled £1076.1.7, including his real estate valued at £970.10. The appraisers gave their oath to the inventory on 20 Dec. 1782, and William Drew Esqr., the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 11 Dec. 1782.

 

William Drew Esqr., the Executor to the Last will & testament of Robert Bradford, late of Kingston, Gentm, notified the court on 6 Jan. 1783 that the estate was insolvent to pay its debts, and asked that commissioners be appointed to examine the claims on the estate. Capt. Ebenr Washburn and Jedh Holmes were appointed as commissioners to examine the claims on the estate.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 28, pp. 460-461, 514-516, 535, from FHL microfilm #0550715.

 

 

Will of Samuell Bradford of Plympton, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1729/30) *

In the Name of God, Amen. The Twenty Sixth day of January in the Year of our Lord 1729/30 I Samuell Bradford of Plimton in the County of Plimouth in New England Gentleman, being Sick and weak in Body, but of Perfect minde & Memory, Thanks be given unto God therefor; Calling to Minde the mortallity of my Body, and knowing that it is appointed for men once to Dye do make and Ordain this my Last Will and Testament, That is to say, principally and first of All, I give and Recommend my Soul into the Hands of God that gave it, Hopeing thrô ye Merritts, Death, and Passion, of my Saviour Jesus Christ, to have full and Free Pardon, and foregiveness of all my Sins, and to Inheritt Everlasting Life, And my Body I Recommend to ye Earth, to be Decently Buried at the Discreation of my Executrix hereafter named ~ And as touching Such Worldly Estate wherewith it hath Pleased God to Bless me in this Life, I give, demise and Dispose of the Same in the Following Manner and Form That is to Say, ~~~

                I Give to my Beloved Wife Sarah Bradford one Hundred Pounds in Bills of Creditt to be Raised out of my Estate to be at her Dispose, I also give to my Wife one Feather Bed such as She Shall Choose with four pair of Sheets and other Furniture Ansrwaveble[?] to be at her Dispose. I also give to my Wife my Great Bible Dureing her Naturall Life & then to Return to my Eldest Son Surviveing. I also give to my Wife one Book of Doctor Beveridges Works. I also Give to my Wife one Silver Spoon. I Likewise give to my Beloved Wife the whole Improvement of all my Estate, Real and Personall, untill my Children Shall Come at Age, and from thence, the third Part of the Improvement of my Real Estate so Long as She Remains my Widdow, or Dureing Her Naturall Life.

                I Give to my Son John, all my Buildings and Fences, together with all my Land and Meadows Laying and being within the Township of Plimton in the County of Above, Laying upon ye South, & South East Side of the Brook runing out of Johns River Meadow Commonly Called Tracys Brook I also give to my Son John one Halfe of my Cedar Swamp, All the abovesd Buildings and Lands, I give to [smear] Son John Free and Clear without any any Incumberances whatsoever Saveing my Wifes Improvements above mentioned. I also give to my Son John one Feather Bed and Furniture also one Yoak of Oxen together with my Arms And also one Book, viz, Flavells Husbandry Spiritualized and also my Law Book

                I Give to my Son Gideon my House, Lands & Meadows in Plimton aforesd laying and being, upon ye North, and North East Side of sd Tracys Brook, together with the other halfe of my Ceader Swamp free and Clear without any Incumberances whatsoever, Saveing my Wifes Improvement before Expressed; I also give to my Son Gideon, one Yoak of Oxen, one Feather Bed & Furniture and also one Book viz Flavells Touchstone of Sincerity and Cair, I likewise give to my two Sons, John and Gideon my Furnace, Forge and Saw Mill, when theay Come of age Excepting the third part of the Income thereof to my Wife dureing Her Naturall Life; And my Will is that my Two Sons John and Giddeon shall not make Sale, or Dispose of sd Works, or Privelige of the Streame till theay Shall arrive at Fourty years of Age, I give to my Son William one Gould Ring and one Book, viz, the History of John Speed. I give to–two Daughters viz Mary and Sarah Bradforde Each of them a Book which theay Shall Chose Excepting those Already given away The Remainder of my Books I give to be Equally Divided among my Children, The one Halfe of my Moveable Estate which is not already Disposed off, I give to my Son William, and the other Halfe of my Moveable Estate, to be divided among my two Daughters, viz Mary and Sarah, and my Will is that my Wife pay theim their part when Twenty one years of Age, but if Either of them Should dye without Marriage, then her Part to go to her Sister. I give to my three Sons viz John, Gideon and William Bradford all my Other Land, or Lands which may fall to me from my Honoured Father to be Equally Divided amongst them, and my Will is yt if my Son John Dye without Issue, then his part of Inheritance Shall go to my Son Giddeon and my Son Gideons his part to go to my Son William, and if any Two of my Sons Should Dye without Issue then, their Inheritance to go to my Surviveing Son And my Will is further that if my Wife Shall See Cause to bring my Son William to Learning She Shall do it out of his Estate but if that is not Sufficient She Shall do it out of the Income of my Real and Personall Estate; and my Will is further that if my Son William Shall Come into the Inheritance of Either of my other two Sons viz John and Gideon, then his part of Inheritance first given him, Shall Return unto my two Daughters. and I likewise Constitute, Ordain and appoint my Dearly beloved Wife Sarah Bradford to be my Sole Executrix to this my last Will and Testament, and I do hereby Utterly Disallow, Revoke, and Disannull all, and Every other former Testaments, Wills and Legacy by me, and in any Ways before this Time named, Willed and bequeathed, Rattifieing and Confirming this & no other to be my last Will and Testament.  In Witness whereof I have here unto Sett my Hand and Seal the day and year above Written

                                                                                                                                                Samuell Bradford                            (seal)

Memorandum. the Words, North East, and kain, and Moveables

Interlined in this Will, was Interlined before the Sealing thereof

Signed, Seald Published Pronouncd,

and declared by The sd Samuell

Bradford as his last Will & Testament

in ye Preasance of us ye Subscribers

Willm Churchell, Willm Bonney, John Bell

 

Proved on May ye 20th 1740 by William Churchell and William Bonney, two of the witnesses, John Bell being since deceased.

 

Josiah Perkins of Plimton, Samuell Jacob of Pembrook and George Samson of Plimton were appointed to appraise the estate of Samuell Bradford, late of Plimton, Gent., on 20 May 1740.

 

The Inventory of the Estate both Reall & Personall of Samuell Bradford, late of Plimton, dated 5 July 1740, totaled £7734.3.0, his home farm valued at £3535, a Forge & Saw Mill & part of a Furnace valued at £480, and other lands, and he had Bills, Bonds & Silver money worth £1940.2.0. Sarah Bradford, the Executrix, gave her oath to the inventory on 4 Aug. 1740.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 8, pp. 199-201, 202, 236-237, from FHL microfilm #0551531.

 

 

Will of Major William Bradford of Plymouth, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1703) *

The Last Will & Testament of William Bradford living in the Township of Plimouth in the Province of the Massachusets Bay in New England I the sd William Bradford being Exorcized with many bodily Infirmitys which gives me cause to think the time of my dissolution to be near being of a disposeing mind & memory do make ordaine & Constitute this my last will & Testament as followeth

Impr: I Commit my Soul to God my Creator & my body to the dust of the Earth to be decently buried in hopes of a glorious resurection through the merits of my dear Redeemer the Lord Jesus Christ As to what outward Estate it hath Pleased God to bless me with I dispose of the same as followeth my debts being all first faithfully fully & truly Satisfied and paid.

Impr: my Will is that my Loving wife Mary Bradford have her thirds in my Lands & meadows where I now dwell in the Township of Plimouth as also in all my lands or meadow which I have Elcewhere not by me heretofore disposed of during her naturall life & that she have with David Bradford my Son the house in which I live with the barn & orchard by it during her life & after her decease that my sd son David Bradford shall have my sd house barn & orchard to him & his heirs for ever saveing that my Will is that my sons Ephraim Bradford & Hezekiah Bradford shall have so much Interest in my sd house as to have liberty to dwell therein till they can provide for themselves otherwise.

Further my Will is that my wife before mentioned shall have a third part of all my goods & Chattells for her own forever togather with a bed & sutable furniture to it

Item  to my Eldest son John Bradford I have made over tracts of Lands and meadows as pr deed under my hand & Seal appeareth whereon he now liveth further I give & bequeath to him my fathers manuscript viz: a Narrative of the begining of New Plimouth Parous – upon the Revelations and Barniffs Military discipline.

Item To my Grandson William Bradford the son of my son William Bradford deceased I have given tracts of Land & meadow as Appear under my hand & seal further I give to him when he shall come of age one of Mr. Perkins his workes.

Item To my son Thomas Bradford I have given a portion in Lands in Norwich (which were the Lands of my brother John Bradford) as ye. deed under my hand & seal may Appear.

Item To my son Samuel Bradford I have given tracts of Land under my hand & seal as may appear;

Item to my son Joseph Bradford a portion of Lands near Norwich aforesaid (which was his Mothers & part I Purchased) as may appear under hand & seal also I give to him the history of the Netherlands, & a Rapier.

Item I give & bequeath unto my four sons John Bradford Thomas Bradford Samuel Bradford & Joseph Bradford all that my Pattent Right which I have to the head of Cape Cod.

Item I give & bequeath to my son Samuel Bradford my right of Commonage or Common Right which I have in the Township of Duxborough.

Item It is my Will that my sons Israel Bradford Ephraim Bradford David Bradford & Hezekiah Bradford shall have all that my farm or tenement whereon I now dwell togather with all the fences orchads trees and Fruittrees (Except what is above Excepted) standing or growing thereon on all other Lands meadows swamps or right of lands that I now have within the Township of Plimouth lying on the Northerly side of the brooke Commonly called Stony brooke with all & singular – the previledges thereof which sd lands meadows farme or tenement abovesd I do by these presents give bequeath & demise to my sd four sons, (that is to say Each of them an Equal part or proportion) to them & their heirs for ever not to be Sold given or made away either the whole or any part thereof Except to Each other or sons bearing the name of the Bradfords descended from me this I give & bequeath to them hoping they will show themselves very Carfull of dutifull & Respectfull to my Loving wife & their mother dureing her life.

Item It is my will that whereas my son Israel Bradford hath been at charge in building an house upon part of the aforesd farm or tenement that he the sd Israel shall have & Enjoy the sd house for his own togather with an acre of land thereunto Adjoining to him & his heirs for ever.

Item I Will & bequeath to my sd son Israel Bradford my bolt & Rapier.

Item I Give to my son Ephraim Bradford one of my musquetts & a table with drawrs.

Item I Give to my son David Bradford my silver-Bowl after his mothers decease not to be Alienated from the family of the Bradfords.

Item I Give to my son Hezekiah Bradford my gold ring & a silver spoone.

Item I Give to my Grand son John Bradford, Do-Widots works on Gonsir & Exodus.

Item I Give to my Grand son William Bradford the son of John Bradford my silver wine Cup when he comes of age.

Item I give to my daughters Mercy Steel Hannah Riply Melatiah Steel Mary Hunt to Each of them beside what portion I have already given ten shillings a peice to be paid within a year next after my decease

Item I Give & bequeath to my daughter Alce Fitch a wrought Cushion that was her Mothers.

Item I Give unto my daughter Sarah Baker two of my biggest pewter platters & also a China bason. Also a Cow to be delivered to her within a year after my decease.

Item I Give unto my son Samuel Bradford all my Latin books, to Encourage him in bringing up one of his sons to Learning which said books is in my Will that they shall [can’t read] be given to his sd son when he shall So bring up.

Item I Give to Every one of Daughters a good book which they my chose out of my Liberary.

Item I give to Hannah the wife of my son Samuel Bradford mr Borroughs upon the Eleventh of Mathew.

Item It is my will that the rest of my bookes be Safely Keept by my Executors & In Case my son Samuel shall bring up one of his sons to Learning to be by Sd Executors delivered to him when he Comes of age.

I do Constitute & Appoint my Loving sons John Bradford Samuel Bradford & Israel Bradford as Executors of this my last Will & Testament to pay such debts as I owe, to Receive my dues and to see my body decently buried, to defray the charge thereof, And to see my will (as near as they can) in all the particulers of it performed, thus hopeing that they will faithfully perform such a trust Committed unto them I do Revoke & make void any former will by me at any time heretofore made.

I the said William Bradford have hereunto set my hand & seal this twenty ninth day of June one thousand seven hundred & three – 1703

Signed Sealed & Declared to be his

Last Will and Testament                                                                                                   William Bradford                            (seal)

In presents of us

John Rogers

Thomas Loring

Ephraim Little Jur.

 

Memorand: That on the 10th day of March Annoq Dom: 1703[/04] the above named Ephraim Little & Thomas Loring two of the witnesses to this Instrument made oath that they were present with Major Wm. Bradford late deceased & saw him signe & seal & heard him declare this Instrument to be his last Will & Testament & that he was then of a disposing mind & memory to the best of their Judgments And on the 29th day of the same month of march the above named John Rogers the other Witness above named made oath to the same before me.

                                                                                                                                                Nathaniel Thomas Judge of Probate

 

Letters of Administration were granted to John Bradford, Samuel Bradford, and Israel Bradford, sons of the deceased and Joynt Executors, on 29 Mar. 1704.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Major William Bradford was appraised by Thomas Loring and Elisha Wadsworth on 28 Feb. 1703[/04], and totaled £70.0.0, not including any real estate. Major John Bradford and Samuel Bradford, the Executors, gave their oath to the inventory on 10 Mar. 1703/4.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 2, p. 40-43, from FHL microfilm #0550748.

 

 

Will of Harry Bradley of Burlington, Chittenden County, Vermont (1850) *

  I, Harry Bradley of Burlington in the County of Chittenden & State of Vermont, in my own opinion of sound mind & memory, make this my will as follows.

First of all I do hereby will & direct that all my Estate of Every description be held Charged with the payment of such debts as may exist against me & Such debts as may exist against the Firm of H&C. P. Bradley if any after the Company Property of said H & C.P.Bradley shall have been first used for that purpose.

Secondly, It is my will that my wife, Maria M. Bradley in case she shall survive me, shall have such interest & property in my Estate as is now by the laws of this State provided for widows of deceased persons.

Thirdly, It is my will & I do hereby give, devise & bequeath unto my son Charles P. Bradley two fifths parts of the residue & remainder of my Estate, to him & his heirs forever.

And Fourthly it is my will & I do hereby give, devise & bequeath unto my daughter Harriet L. Bradley three tenth parts of such residue & remainder of My Estate, to her & her heirs forever.

And Fifthly, It is my will & I do hereby give, devise & bequeath unto my son George H. Bradley three tenth parts of such residue & remainder of My Estate to him & his heirs forever.

The reason why I do not by this will give any part of My Estate to My daughter Lucia M. Peck is that Some years ago I give her about three thousand dollars.

And the above legacies are given to my children to be deemed & taken as full satisfaction of any & all claims of said legatees or any of them against me for any services they or any of them may have rendered or shall hereafter render for me.

And I do hereby nominate & appoint Charles Russell & Charles P. Bradley both of Burlington afsd. to be Executors of this will.

In testimony whereof I hereto set my hand & seal and publish & declare this to be my last will & testament this 20th day of October in the year of our Lord one thousand Eight hundred and fifty.

Signed, sealed, published

& declared by the said Harry

Bradley as his last will and                                                                                               Harry Bradley                                      (seal)

testament in presence of us

who have hereunto subscribed

our names as witnesses thereof

at the request & in the presence

of the said testator & in the

presence of Each other

        H S Moan

        E. C. Loomis

        Dudley Pitkin

 

Burlington April 28 1857.

To the Hon W H French

Judge of Probate

                                                Dr Sir

                                                     I herewith

decline Serving as an Executor of the will of My Father the late Harry Bradley

                                                Respectfully Yours.

                                                Charles P Bradley

 

To the Hon. the Probate Court in and for the District of Chittenden,

The undersigned being named as one of the Executors in & by the last will & testament of Harry Bradley late of Burlington in said Burlington deceased, by these presents gives said Court notice that he, the undersigned declines to take upon himself the Office & duty of Executor of said Will

Dated at Burlington this 8th day of May A.D. 1857.

                                                                                Charles Russell

 

Maria M. Bradley was granted administration with the will annexed of the estate of Harry Bradley, late of Burlington, on 8 May 1857, with Harry Bradley, of Williston, as surety.

 

Charles Russell and Toney E. Wales, both of Burlington, were appointed to appraise the estate of Harry Bradley, late of Burlington, on 8 May 1857. Inventory was dated 26 May 1857, and totaled $130.97, no real estate.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Chittenden County Probate Estate Files, 1857, Box 16, File #1763.

 

 

Will of Maria Bradley of Burlington, Chittenden County, Vermont (1857) *

        I Maria Bradley of Burlington County of Chittenden and State of Vermont being of sound mind and memory and in good bodily health do hereby make declare and publish this my last will and testament.

        First I wish my executor hereinafter named to pay and discharge all my just and lawful debts and funeral Expenses as soon after my death as conveniently may be

        Second I hereby give devise and bequeath all of the remainder of my estate both real and personal to Mary Bradley daughter of my brother John Bradley of Janesville in the State of Wisconsin And I hereby direct My Executor to pay over to my said Brother John Bradley all of such remainder of my Estate for the benefit of his said daughter Mary and the receipt of my said brother shall be a discharge in full to my said Executor from all liability as Executor of this will

        Third I hereby constitute and appoint Henry Loomis of Burlington aforesaid as Executor of this my last will and testament hereby revoking all former wills by me made

                In witness whereof I have hereunto subscribed my name and affixed my seal this Seventh day of December A.D. 1857

                                                                                                                                                Maria Bradley                                     (seal)

Signed sealed published and declared by Maria Bradley as her last will and testament, and we the undersigned do attest and subscribe our names hereunto by the request and in the presence of said testator and in the presence of each other the day and Year above written

                                                                                                                                                A. W. Allen

                                                                                                                                                Julia Loomis

                                                                                                                                                Elizabeth Lowry

 

Presented for probate on 29 Dec. 1862, and proved on 23 Jan. 1863. Henry Loomis was granted Letters Testamentary on 23 Jan. 1863 with A. W. Allen as surety. John N. Pomeroy and E. C. Loomis were appointed to appraise the estate of Maria Bradley, late of Burlington, on 23 Jan. 1863. The inventory of her personal estate, dated 1 Apr. 1863, totaled $573.12, but there was apparently also a note from J. Bradley for $2600.00.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Chittenden County Probate Estate Files, 1863, Box 23, File #3070.

 

 

Will of Joshua Bramhall of Plymouth, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1762) *

In the Name of God Amen. I Joshua Bramhall of Plimouth in the county of Plimouth cloathier being under bodily infirmities but of a sound & disposing mind & memory for which I bless God considering the certainty of death & the uncertainty of the time when it shall please God to put a period to my days on earth & being desirous to set my house in order before my Dissolution Do make my last will & testament in manner & form following viz. And first of all I recommend my Soul to God who gave it trusting for Salvation in & through the merits of the Redeemer of Mankind & my Body to be decently interred at the discression of my Executor in hopes of glorious Resurrection to eternal life & as to my Estate I give and dispose of the same as followeth. (viz.)

I give to my beloved wife Sarah Bramhall the improvement of all my farm in Falmouth in the county of York lately in the occupation of my son Cornelius Bramhall decd. the Incomes of all the money, Bonds & notes which I may have by me at the time of my death and the use of all my Indoor moveables in Plimouth & the use of my great Bible during the time of her natural life I also give my said wife the use & improvemt of the house wherein I now dwell in Plimouth & the garden thereto belonging as now improvd. and the use of my wood lot near Sparrows hill in said town during the time that she shall remain my widdow and also the sum of forty shillings lawfull money to be paid her by my son Silvanus Bramhall Yearly & Every year during her widdow hood as aforesaid. I allso give my said wife the use of my cow & the use of all my Sheep in the county of Plimouth for the term aforesaid. I also give my said wife the use of all the meadow adjoining to the dwelling house of my said son Sylvanus lying below the mill bridge.

Item. I give to my two grandsons that is to say to Joseph the son of my son Jo Bramhall & to my grandson Cornelius the son of my son Sylvanus Bramhall the house and land belonging to me in Falmouth lately in the occupation of my son Corenlius Bramhall deceasd. scituate in Kingstreet opposite the court house in said town bounded according to the known bounds thereof together with all my Farm in said Falmouth excepting what is fallen to me by the death of my son Cornelius Bramhall desd. to hold to them their heirs & assigns forever from & after the death of my said wife. ~

Item. I give to my daughter Martha Darling the wife of Jonathan Darling & her heirs all my Personal Estate of what name or nature soever not otherwise disposed of in this my will to my son Sylvanus Bramhall & my grandaughter Sarah Bramhall to be paid & deliverd. her as soon as may be after the decease of my wife to whom I have delivered the improvement of the same. I also give my said daughter the use & improvement of the westly. end of my dwelling house in Plimouth & the land adjoining the fee of which I have given to my son Sylvanus Bramhall the same to be improved by my said daughter Martha Darling at the decease of my said wife in case my said daughter should be destitute of an house of her own to live in –

Item. I give to my grandaughter Sarah Bramhall a Feather bed A bolster at the decease of my wife –

Item. I give to my Grandson Edmond Bramhall son of my son Joseph decd. All that part of the house wherein I now dwell in Plimouth aforesaid with the land adjoining which I have not hereafter perticularly described and given to my son Sylvanus Bramhall & also the westerly half of my said wood lot near Sparrows hill to hold with the appurtenances to him, the said Edmond his heirs & Assigns forever from & after the death or second marriage of my said wife. I also give to him my said Grandson the old Shop adjoining to the Land of Jno. Coopers heirs with the land the same stands on lying between two roads. –

Item. I give to my son Silvanus Bramhall my wearing apparel, my arms, and accoutrements, my Cane, & Utencils for the cloathing & fulling business and all such debts as may be due to me on account from any person for work service in the cloathiers & fulling business. I likewise give & devise to my sd. Son Sylvanus Bramhall & his heirs & assigns forever the westerly end of my dwelling house in Plimouth with the West-part of the lot & meadow on & near which said house stands, bounded begining at the way leading up Spring hill opposite to the middle of the Chimney in said house & from thence on a streight line thro’ the said house in a line parrallel with the west end of said house & so on the same course to the brook or mill pond all the land lying to the westward of the said line with the said westerly end of the dwelling house I give to To my said son Sylvanus his heirs and assigns forever. always provided that in case it should so happen at the time of the decease of my wife my daughter Martha Darling should be destitute of a dwelling house to live in that he the said Sylvanus Bramhall & his heirs & Assigns shall permit & allow the said Martha Darling the use & improvement of the said dwelling house and the land adjoining that,s fit for gardening which I have before given my said son Sylvanus free of any demand for Rent or any other thing whatsoever and shall keep the same house in good repair so long as she the said Martha shall be unprovided for of a house of her own or her husbands The devise thereof to my said son Sylvanus notwithstanding I likewise give to my said son Sylvanus and his heirs & Assigns forever all the rest & residue of my said Estate both real and personal of what name or nature soever except what of late has happen,d and fell to me by the death of my son Cornelius I give the same to him upon condition that he pay & discharge all my Just debts funeral charges & also pay my sd. wife during the time she shall remain my widdow the aforesaid the sum of forty shillings, lawfull money yearly & every year during the times aforesaid hereby constituting him my said son sole Executor of this will I also give to my said son Sylvanus Bramhall the use & improvement of that part of my dwelling house & the land adjoining which I have given unto my grandson Edmond Bramhall, after the decease of my wife untill the said Edmond shall arrive to the age of twenty one Years, And whereas I have in this will given to my grandson Edmond Bramhall all that part of the house wherein I now dwell with the land adjoining which I have not heretofore particularly describd. and given to my son Silvanus Bramhall without describing & bounding of the same & that no uncertainty here after may be had about the bounds of the land herein given unto him my said Grandson Edmond it is to be understood that his bounds are to begin at the way leading up Spring hill opposite to the middle of the chimney in said house & from thence easterly as the way goes as far as it comes opposite to the most southermost End of Thomas Kempton,s dwelling house from thence southerly on a strait line to the town brook & then westerly with the brook so far as that a Strait line will strike the middle of the chimney being the bounds first mentioned all the lands & buildings included within these bounds I give to my said grandson his heirs & Assigns forever when he shall arrive at the age of twenty one Years  In Testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand & Seal this second day of June Annoq. Domini 1762.

Signed, sealed, delivered, pronounced & declared by the said Joshua Bramhall to be his last will & Testament in prescence.-

William Ryder

Samuel Sherman

Edward Winslow                                                                                                                  Joshua Bramhall                             (seal)

 

Presented for probate on 27 Apr. 1763 by Sylvanus Bramhall, the Execr. therein named, and proved by Edward Winslow, Samuel Sherman, and Wm. Ryder, the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Silvanus Bramhall, the before named Exr, with William Ryder, Cordwainer, and Samuel Sherman, Hatter, all of Plimouth, as sureties.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 16, p. 477-479, from FHL microfilm #0551543.

 

 

Will of Elihu Brett of Bridgewater, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1744) *

In the Name of God amen, the fourteenth day of March Anno Domini 1744, I Elihu Brett of Bridgwater in the County of Plimo in New England being weak in body but of perfect mind and Memory Thanks be to God therefor calling to mind the Mortallity of my body do make and Ordain this my last Will and Testament in the following manner first I Give my Soul into the Hands of God and my body I Commit to the Earth to be decently buried at the Discretion of my Executor hereafter Named and as touching my worldly Estate I dispose thereof as followeth my Just debts funeral Charges and other Expences being first allowed.

Imprimis, I Give and bequeath unto my Well beloved wife Susanna Brett all my personal or movable Estate of all Sorts both within doors & without to be wholy at her dispose allso I Give her the improvement of my homestead Land & buildings for her Comfort dureing the time of her natural life.

Item, I Give unto my Son John Brett to him his heirs & Assigns forever all my lands both divided and Undivided Only reserveing to My sd. wife her improvement as Abovementiond and Constitute my sd. Son John Brett to be the Sole Executor of this my last will & Testament obligeing him to pay the Several Legacies hereafter mentiond.

Item. I Give to my Daughter Ann Cary the wife of Joseph Cary Two hundred pounds old tenour

Item. I give to my daughter Bethia Drake the wife of Joseph Drake Two hundred pounds old tenour, These two Legacies to be paid within the space of two years after my decease

Item. I Give to my Grand daughter Freelove Drake the Child of my Daughter Elizabeth Drake deceas’d the sum of Seventy five pounds old tenour to be paid to her at the age of Eighteen years.

Item. I Give to my Grand Daughter Ann Drake the Other Child of my sd. Daughter Deceasd, the sum of Seventy five pounds (old tenour) to be paid to her when She Shall come to the age of Eighteen years.—Signed Sealed & Declared by the sd. Elihu Brett to be his last Will &( Testament in Presence of us.

John Turner                                                                                                                          Elihu Brett                          (seal)

Joshua Howard

Joseph Edson

 

Presented for probate on 3 June 1745 by the Executor, and proved by John Turner, Joshua Haward and Joseph Edson, the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to John Brett of Bridgwater, the Executor, on 3 June 1745.

 

Vol. 10, p. 34-35

Inventory of the Estate Real & Personal of Elihu Brett, late of Bridgwater, dated 17 June 1745, by Joseph Edson, John Turner, and Samuel Hartwell, not totaled, but his lands both divided and undivided together with the buildings were valued at £1378. John Brett, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 7 Oct. 1745.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 9, p. 474-475, Vol. 10, p. 34-35.

 

 

Will of Nathaniel Brett of Bridgewater, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1730/1) *

The Last Will and Testament of Nathaniel Brett of Bridgwater in the County of Plymouth in New England.  I Nathaniel Brett being at this present time in health of Body & Soundness of mind & Memory praised be god, Do make and Ordain this My Last Will and Testament in manner and form as followeth  First and Principally I Resign my Soul to god my Maker and my body to ye Earth in Decent Christian Burial and my Will is that after my just debts & Funerall Expenses be paid the Remainder of my Estate be disposed of in manner as followeth~~

Imprimis. I Give and Bequeath Unto My Beloved wife Sarah Brett Twenty Pounds in money and One Feather Bed with what Covering properly belongeth to it, besides what other Provision I have made for her Support.—

Item. I Give and Bequeath Unto My son William Brett Nine acres of Swamp lying a little above West meadow, and Eleven acres of Upland (adjoining to it) at ye Northerly end of the land That I bought of Lieut Hayward, Furthermore I Give him one Third part of my Right in Cedar Swamp, & undivided lands all which I Give to him and to his Heirs and assigns forever with One third part of my Right in the first Share and in the twenty Acre lot at Buck Hill

Item  I Give and Bequeath unto my Youngest son Nathaniel Brett about Seven Acres and a Quarter of Land by West meadow Path lying between the land which was formerly Mr Keiths to the Southward and that which was formerly my Own to ye Northward lying on ye Westerly side of the Way More allso I give him about half a Lott of meadow in a place Called Cutting Cove with part of ye Swamp adjoyining to it that belonged to me by Virtue of my Right in the meadow lands the sd peice lying next the River and Bounded by ye Swamp White Oake Tree which stands upon the Brink of the River and bounded on the Northerly side by a Straite Line from sd Tree Westerly to a Small Ash Tree marked on two sides and so to Ames’ Swamp lot more I Give him Twenty Acres of Land lying at ye Southerly end of Stecken[?] Plain which I had of Benoni Hayward, Together with all ye rest of the Land that was laid out to me near Shares —  Moreover I give him One third part of my Right in that Twenty Acre Lott lying near Buck Hill and a third part of my Right in the Undivided lands and Cedar Swamp, allso I give him all my necessary Implements for Husbandry, I Say I give all the abovesd Bequest to him his Heirs and Assigns forever, with about three Acres of Land more lying near the Head of West meadow.

Item  I Give and bequeath unto my four Grandsons Samuel Brett    Brett, Simeon Brett & Seth Brett the Children of my son Seth Brett in the Right of theire Deceas’d Fathers, about half a lott of meadow in Cutting Cove being the Northerly part of my Lott and is Divided by a Straite Line from a Swamp oake near ye brink of the River Runing Westerly to a Small Ash Tree marked on Two Sides And so to Ames’ Swamp, And so bounded On ye head and Northerly side by Ames’ land, more I Give them one third part of my Right in that twenty Acre Lott belonging to ye Bretts which lyeth near to Buck Hill, Furthermore I Give them One third part of my Right in all undivided lands & Cedar Swamp which together with what I have Otherwise bestowed upon them and my will is that they pay out of it to my Grand daughter Sarah Brett theire Sister Ten pounds, that is to Say two pounds and ten Shillings apeice and I allso Will to my sd Granddaughter fourty Shillings out of my Estate all which Bequests I Give unto my forenamed Grand Children theire Heirs & assigns forever.

Item  I Give & Bequeath unto My Eldest Daughter Mehetable Edson Twenty pounds money and One Cow Whereof she hath allready Receivd Eighteen pounds in Money & A Cow and the Rest She Shall Receive out of my personall Estate after My Decease.—

Item  I Give to my two younges daughters Sarah Brett & Hannah Brett Each of them a Cow and Each of them a Feather bed and twenty Eight pounds a peice in money whereof they have Allready Recieved the sum of Eighteen pounds a peice in Money, and as for the Rest of my personall Estate My will is that after my wifes decease it be Equally Divided among all my three Daughters abovenamed

Finally  I Nominate and apoint My Son William Brett Sole Executor of this my Last Will and Testament utterly Renounceing & Revokeing all other Wills and Testaments by me heretofore made or devised and doe Establish & Confirm this to be my Last Will and Testament In Witness whereof I hereunto set my Hand and Seal it being January 18.th in the fourth year of the Reign of Our Souvereign Lord George the second by the Grace of God over Great Britain &c. Anno Domini 1730/1

Signed Sealed Published

 & Declared in the Presence                                                                                              Nathaniel Brett                                 (seal)

Jonathan Packard

Joseph Lothrop

Zackariah Snell

 

Proved on 20 May 1741 by Jonathan Packard and Joseph Lothrop, two of the witnesses.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Deacon Nathl. Brett, late of Bridgwater, was appraised by Joseph Edson, Jonathan Packard and Josiah Snell junr. on 27 May 1741, not totaled, but his meadow, swamp and upland were valued at £530. William Brett, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 1 June 1741.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 8, pp. 338-340, 350-351, from FHL microfilm #0551531.

 

 

Will of Simeon Brett of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1792) *

        In the name of God Amen—I Simeon Brett of Bridgwater in the County of Plymouth in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts yeoman, do this Eighteenth day of August in the year of our Lord One thousand seven hundred & ninety two proceed to make this my Last will & testament in manner & form following, that is to say, first, I resign my soul into the hands of almighty God who gave it, humbly trusting in him through the merits of Jesus Christ for pardon grace & a glorious & happy immortality, and as to the worldly estate wherewith it hath pleased God to bless me, I dispose of it as followeth

        First—I Give, devise & bequeath to my four Daughters—namely, Jane, Ziboah, Mehitable, & Rubie, all my household furniture, to be equally divided betwixt them, to have & to hold forever—I also Give & bequeath to my Daughter Mehitable aforesaid the sum of thirty shillings of Lawful silver money to be paid by my Executors herein after named

        Item—I Give & bequeath to my two youngest sons, namely, Calvin & Luther the sum of thirty pounds to each of them to be paid by Executors here in after named, within twelve months next after my decease

        Item—I Give & bequeath to my son Daniel, a note of hand which I hold against him for the sum of forty five pounds on Interest, & the said Daniel is hereby discharged & acquitted from the payment of the said forty five pounds & Interest, to my Executors, or any other person whatsoever

        Item—I Give & bequeath to my son Luther, my Horse, to have & to hold forever

        Item—I Give & bequeath to the three children of my son Simeon deceased, one shilling each, which with what other provision I have made for them, is their full share of my estate

        Item—I Give & bequeath to my four Daughters, namely Jane Zibeah Mehitable & Rubie the sum of twelve silver dollars each in addition to what I have heretofore given them in this my last will & testament the same to be paid by my Executors herein after named within twelve months next after my decease

        Item—I Give & bequeath to my grand children hereafter named vizt- Ezra Brett, Simeon Noyce, Francis Cary, Katharine Southworth Mehitable Field the sum of six shillings each to be paid by my Executors herein after named, within twelve months next after my decease

        Item—I Give & bequeath to my son Amzi twelve shillings, which with what I have heretofore given him, is his full share of my estate

        Item—I Give, Devise & bequeath to my four Daughters above named my Pew in the north meeting house in Bridgwater to have and to hold as tenants in common, to them, their heirs & assigns forever, and for the full performance of this my Last will & testament in every part & thing, I do hereby ordain constitute & appoint my oldest son & my three youngest sons, namely Rufus Brett, Daniel Brett, Calvin Brett, & Luther Brett all of Bridgwater aforesaid yeomen to be my Executors of this my Last will & testament, whom I order & direct to pay all the Legacies & bequests by me in this will made, also all my just debts & funeral charges, and to give a decent christian burial, & in order that my said Executors may be enabled to pay all the Legacies & bequests by me in this my Last will & testament made, as also to pay & satisfy all my just debts & funeral charges & to give me a decent christian burial, I do hereby give, devise & bequeath to the said Rufus, Daniel, Calvin & Luther all the rest & residue of my estate both real & personal & mixt, of what name or nature soever, not otherwise by me in this my Last will & testament disposed of—and after the payment of the Legacies, bequests, debts & funeral charges as aforesaid, if there shall remain a surplusage in the hands of my said Executors, my will is that the said surplusage whether it be in Lands or personal estate, shall be equally divided betwixt them the said Rufus, Daniel, Calvin & Luther their heirs & assigns, to have & to hold forever.—In witness whereof I the said Simeon Brett the testator have to his my Last will & testament set my hand and seal the day & year above written

Signed Sealed, Published, Pronounced

& declared by the said Simeon Brett                                                                                               Simeon Brett      (seal)

to be his Last will & testament in

presence of us

        Mathew Kingman

        Jeremiah Thayer junr

        Oliver Jackson

        Daniel Howard

 

Presented for probate on 3 Sept. 1792 by Rufus Brett, Daniel Brett, Calvin Brett & Luther Brett, and proved by Mathew Kingman & Daniel Howard, two of the witnesses.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 33, p. 150-151, from FHL microfilm #0550717.

 

 

Will of Elder William Brett of Bridgewater, Colony of New Plymouth (1681) *

The last Will and Testament of of Mr Willam Brett Elder of the Church of Christ att Bridge water; exhibited to the Court held att Plymouth the the seaventh of March 1681 (82)

 

These are to publish and descend to all whom it may concerne that I Willam Brett senir of Bridgwater in the collonie of New Plymouth being through the mercye of God of sound Judgment and Memory doe ordaine and Make my last Will and Testament in Manor and forme as followeth: viz: into the hands of God I Comend my speritt (can’t read) Resigneing up my soule into the (can’t read) armes of Gods mercye; father sonne and holy speritt my body to be decently Interred, att the descretion of my executrix; heerafter Nominated; and for my out ward estate I doe will, That after all my Just debts and funerall expenses be payed; my lands and other Moveables I Dispose of as followeth;

Imprs. I Give unto my son Willam twenty acrees of land on which hee hath built; lying on Mattfeild River, and Joyning to the land of Joseph Bassett, more twenty accrees Lying downe the Great River, on the east Side Joyning to the land of John Washburne senir, alsoe I Give unto him thirty acrees of land, a prte of the Next devision, which is agreed upon by the Towne, to be fifty acrees; further I Give unto him one lott of Meddow lying on west meddow brook; between west meddow and Heagy[?] meddow, These and every prte I Give to him I say to him and to his heires;

Item I Give to my sonne Eliheu fifty acrees of Land lying on the west syde of the Towne River, and Joyning to the Land of John Leonard; more twenty acrees Land a part of the next devision before Mensioned, further I Give unto him one Lott of land lying in the Meddow, usually Called Slashing Cove; and Joyning to the Land of Samuell Leonard Estate and every prte I Give unto him; I say to him and to his heires,

Item I Give unto my two Daughters Lydia and hannah sixty acrees of [torn] Great River below Teticutt which land was Given mee by the County; I [torn] to be equally devided betwixt them;

I Give unto my Deare wife Margarett, all my Moveables after all sorts [torn] comfort, and to dispose of as in her wisdom and prudence shee shall [torn] my Children with due Respect to these dutifull carriage towards her, in [torn] Alsoe to my wife dureing her life I doe give the use and Improvement [torn] house and outhouses with the land adjoyning thereunto, thirteen acrees [torn] with ten acrees lying by the Bay Path, one lott of Meddow in Cutting cove; and [torn] Meddow in Heagy[?] Meddow; after my wifes decease I bequeath unto my son Nathaniel [torn] dwelling house and all out housing, with the land Adjoyning thereunto; thirteen acrees Meadow lesse; alsoe I Give to him ten acrees of land lying by the Bay path; and the lott of meddow in Cutting Cove before mensioned; and my prte of the land which the Towne Purchased of Peter the Indian

Further my will is that after my wifes decease, the lott of Meddow lying in Heagy[?] Meddow Before mensioned be equally devided, between my two sonnes Willam and Eliheu; and whatsoever privilige  doth belonge to my Purchase Right; my Will is that it be equally devided betwixt my three sonnes finally, I Give to my Grandchild Joseph haward a Carbine;

finally I appoint and make Margarett my wife sole executrix; of this My Last Will and Testament; Revoking all other wills and Testaments, Whatsoever; In witness wherof I have heerunto sett My hand and seale, this twenty fift of November; 1681

one thousand six hundred eighty & one;                                                                         Willam Brett       and a  (seal)

Witnes

Thomas haward

John haward

 

An Inventory of the estate of Mr Willam Brett senr. being deceased made by Leifte: Thomas hayward, and Ensigne John haward on the 29th Day of December Anno: 1681

[Totaled £69.16.00]

Thomas Hayward

John Hayward

 

This Inventory of Mr William Brett deceased was prsented by Margarett Brett, Relict to the said Willam Brett, and Testifyed upon her oath the 27th of Aprill 1682

Bridgwater 27th of Aprill 1682 )                                                       Before mee Willam Bradford

                                                                                                                                Assistant;

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth Colony Records, Wills Vol. 4, Part 1, p. 106-107, one corner of the second page torn off before it was microfilmed.

 

 

Will of William Brett of Bridgewater, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1713) *

In ye Name of God, amen, I William Brett of ye Town of Bridgewater in ye County of Plymouth in New England Yeoman Being in some good measure of Health & Retaining my memory & understanding praised be God for it, But Calling to mind that it is appointed for all men once to Die: do make & ordain this my last Will & Testament in manner & Form following and first & principally I give & Recomend my Soul into ye Hand of God who gave it me & my Body to ye Earth to be buried in Decent Christian Burial nothing doubt [blot] Receive ye same again by ye mighty Power of God at ye general Resurrection & as touching Such worldly Estate wherewith it hath pleased God to bless me (my Just Debts & funeral Expenses being first Paid) my Will is yt it be desposed of in manner & form following. Imprimis I give & bequeath unto my Well:beloved wife Elizabeth Brett ye whole of my Personal Estate yt I Shall dye possessed of to be wholly at Her own dispose & also all my Real Estate during her natural Life & in case my Personal Estate be not Sufficient for my wife’ Comfortable Subsistence I do hereby give Her full Power to Sell & dispose of So much of my Lands as may be Sufficient to Procure Her needfull Supplys & I give lawfull Conveyance & assurance of ye same to ye Purchaser thereof, always Remembring yt my Will is yt my Homestead with ye addition Thereto Shall be Reserved Entire till other Supplys fail. Item I give & bequeath unto my only daughter Bethiah Hayward all my Real Estate (after her mothers decease which Her mother Shall not have disposed of for Her own Supply) to be to Her & Her Children Lawfully begotten of Her Body & their Heirs & assigns forever & if my Son in Law Thomas Hayward & my daughter Shall continue to live with their mother after my decease during her Life & Shall take Care to Provide for Her Comfortable Subsistence then my Will is yt my Sd Son & daughter Shall have ye Improvement of my Homestead containing about fourty five acres of Land together with Seventeen acres of Land lying above Leiut Byrams Saw:mill So long as Either of them live to Enjoy it (altho my Sd daughter Should Have no Heir as abovesd to Enjoy it after them) & also they shall have ye Improvement of all my other Lands which my wife Shall not have occasion to Sell for Her Support: but in Case my sd daughter Should dye & Leave no Children or Child of Hers to Enjoy my Estate then after my Wife & my Son In Law are deceased my Will is yt my Real Estate be desposed of as followeth. Item: I give & bequeath all my other Lands whether divided or undivided within ye Town of Bridgewater to ye Children of my Brother Elisha Brett & my three Sisters namely Lydia, Alice & Hannah, to be Equally divided among those of them Then Surviving to be to them & Their Several Heirs & assigns forever. Item: I give & bequeath my Homestead above mentioned with all ye appurtenances & Priviledges thereof together with ye Seventeen acres before mentioned & added thereunto, To William Brett ye Second Surviving Son of my Brother Nathaniel Brett of Bridgewater aforesd & to His Heirs & assignes forever. Finally I do ordain & appoint my Well:beloved wife Elisabeth Brett & my Loving daughter Bethyah Hayward Joynt Executrixes of this my last Will & Testament, & I do hereby disallow Revoke & disannul all other Wills, Testaments Legacys & Bequests & Executors by me made or named, & I do Ratify & Establish this & no other to be my last Will & Testament, & I do Request & appoint my Loving Brother Nathaniel Brett & my Loving Cousin Ephraim Cary to be overseers of this my last Will & Testament to See ye same be duly Executed according to ye true Intent & meaning thereof. In Witness whereof I have hereunto Sett my hand & Seal this 31st day of December anno domini: 1713, In ye twelfth year of ye Reign of our Sovereign Lady Anne over Great Brittain & Queen

Signed Sealed Published

Pronounced & declared to be                                                                                            William Brett     (seal)

ye last Will & Testament

of ye Sd William Brett

Before us

Josiah Snell

Israel Packard

Seth Brett

Memorandum It is to be understood & my Will is yt If my daughter Should be left a Widdow & Reduced to want & necessities Then She Shall have Power & authority after my wifes decease to make Sale of any of my Lands for Her Relief.

October ye 5th 1724 Josiah Snell & Israel Packard made oath yt they Saw ye above named William Brett Sign Seal & heard him declare ye above written Instrument to be His last Will & Testament & yt at ye same time they together with Seth Brett Set to their Hands as Witnesses & also yt then he was of a Sound & disposing mind & memory to ye best of their observation

                                                                                                                                Before Isaac Winslow Judge of Probate

 

The Inventory of the Estate of William Brett, late of Bridgewater, who deceased November 16th 1723, was appraised by John Kingman, Isaac Johnson, & Henry Kingman on 17 Oct. 1724, and totaled £1091.7.0, including 40 acres of land at Home with Housing valued at £500, 80 acres of land on the East side of the Great River below Richard Jennings and 40 acres on the Westerly side of the River valued at £366, and other lands. Elisabeth Brett, the Relict and Executrix, gave her oath to the inventory on 21 Oct. 1724.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 5, pp. 15-16, 18-19, from FHL microfilm #0550511.

 

 

Will of America Brewster of Plymouth, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1817) *

        In the name of God Amen, I America Brewster of Plymouth in the County of Plymouth and Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Mariner, being of sound and disposing mind and memory, do make and ordain this to be my last Will and Testament, in the first place I commend my soul to the mercy of God who gave it and my body to a decent burial

        In the next place after my just debts are paid & funeral Expences,

        I give and bequeath my whole Estate both Real and Personal in Plymouth aforesaid or elsewhere to my beloved wife Sarah Brewster as her sole property.

        Lastly I nominate and appoint my said wife to be sole Executer to this my last Will and Testament,

        In testemony whereof I the America Brewster have hereunto set my hand and seal this fourteenth day of March A D one thousand Eight hundred and seventeen.

                                                                                                                                                America Brewster                            (seal)

Signed, sealed and declared to be his last Will and Testament in presence of us

        Rosseter Cotton

        Priscillar Cotton

        Wm. L. Gordon

        Thomas J. Cotton

 

Sally Brewster, of Plymouth, was appointed as Executrix of the last Will and Testament of America Brewster, late of Plymouth, on 21 Feb. 1848, with Nathaniel C. Lanman and Nathaniel C. Lanman Junior, both of Plymouth, as sureties.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 90, p. 6, from FHL microfilm #0555639, and Vol. 1G, p. 481.

 

 

Will of Hosea Brewster of Kingston, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1830) *

        In the name of God, Amen, I Hosea Brewster of Kingston in the County of Plymouth, being weak of body, but of sound and disposing mind and memory, do make and publish this my last Will and Testament in manner and form following, to wit,

First, After the payment of my just debts and funeral charges, I give, devise, and bequeath to my beloved wife Hannah Brewster and to her heirs and assigns forever all my estate, Real and Personal of whatsoever name or nature.

Second, I hereby appoint my said Wife Hannah Brewster to be sole Executrix of this my last Will and Testament hereby revoking all others.

        In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand & seal this eighth day of December in the Year of Our Lord One thousand eight hundred and thirty.

                                                                                                                                                Hosea Brewster                (seal)

Signed, sealed, published and declared by the above named

Hosea Brewster, as and for his last Will and Testament, in presence

of us, who at his request, in presence of the testator and of each other

have hereunto set our names as Witnesses

        Eli Cook

        Elkanah Cushman

        Samuel Adams

 

Presented for probate on 20 Feb. 1832, and proved by Eli Cook and Samuel Adams, two of the witnesses.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 72, p. 26-27, from FHL microfilm #0555261

 

 

Will of John Brewster of Kingston, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1766) *

                                                In the Name of GOD, Amen,

Upon the twenty fourth day of june in the year of Our Lord, one thousand, seven hundred and sixty six, I John Brewster of Kingston in the county of Plymouth, in the province of the Massachusetts-Bay, in New-England, inn holder, upon good and serious considerations, and under some decays of nature, but of perfect mind and memory, (thanks be given unto God for the same,) and therefore calling unto mind the mortality of my body, and knowing that it is appointed for all men once to die, do make and ordain this to be my last will and testament.

Principally, and first of all, I give and recomend my soul into the hands of God that gave it, and my body I recomend to the earth to be buried in a decent, christian manner, at the discretion of my executrix herein after named, Nothing doubting but at the Great and General Resurrection I shall receive the same again by the Almighty power of God. and as touching such worldly goods, and temporal-estate wherewith it hath pleased God to bless me in this Life, I give, demise, & dispose of the same, in the manner and form following. ~

Imprimis, My will is that all my just-debts and funeral charges be defreyed and paid out of my personal estate. ~

                Item, I do give and bequeath unto my well beloved wife Rebeccah Brewster, all the whole use and improvement of all my real & personal estate, so long as she shall remain my widdow, and no longer.—But if in case my said widdow Rebeccah Brewster should marry again, that then she is to have but one third part of the improvement of my said real & personal estate, during her natural life. ~

                Item. And my will is this, that whereas I gave to my daughter Rebeccah Samson, in her life time in sundry articles of moveable goods to the amount of seventy pounds two shillings & four pence; But my said daughter Rebeccah being deced, my will is that the abovesaid premises I do give & bequeath unto my two grand children Elisha Samson & Rebeccah Samson, the two children of my daughter Rebeccah Samson deced, to be equally alike divided between them their heirs & assigns forever.—

                Item. I do give and bequeath unto my daughter Abigail Brewster the wife of Lemuel Brewster, the sum of seventy pounds two shillings & four pence, in moveable goods, together with half of my dwelling house, with one half of my house Lot, with half of all the other buildings that are upon said house-lot, and my will is that after my said daughter Abigail has done with her said legacy, that then this said legacy of my sd. daughter Abigail’s I do give & bequeath unto my grandchildren, the children of my said daughter Abigail Brewster to be equally alike divided amongst them all, their heirs & assigns forever.~

                Item. I do give and bequeath unto my daughter Sarah Brewster, the sum of eighty three pounds, and nine shillings in moveable goods, together with one half of my dwelling-house, with half my house Lott, together with one half of all the buildings thereon, together with one third of the residue or remaining part of my said estate, of both real and personal, whatsoever it is, and wheresoever it may be found, I do give & bequeath to my said daughter Sarah Brewster, her heirs & assigns, forever.

                Item, I do give & bequeath unto my daughter the sd. Abigail Brewster one third part of all the residue or remaining part of my real & personal estate, whatsoever it is, and wheresoever it may be found, and it is to be one third part. And my will is, that after my said daughter Abigail has done with it, I do give & bequeath said Legacy to my grandchildren, the children of my sd. daughter Abigail Brewster, to be equally alike divided amongst them all, their heirs and assigns forever.~

                Item, I do give and bequeath unto my two grand children, Elisha Samson, and Rebeccah Samson, the children of my said daughter Rebeccah Samson deced, the other third, and it being all the residue or remaining part of my real and personal estate whatsoever it is, and wheresoever it may be found to be equally divided between them, to them their heirs, and assigns forever.—

                Item. I do hereby constitute and appoint my trusty & well-beloved wife Rebeccah Brewster, to be the sole executrix of this my Last will & testament. and I do hereby utterly disallow, revoke and disannul all and every other and former wills, testaments & bequests, by me in any before-named, made, willed, or bequested, ratifying and confirming this and no other to be my Last will and Testament. – In Witness whereof I the said John Brewster have hereunto set to my hand and seal, the day and year above-written. ~

Signed, sealed, published, pronounced, and                                                                  John Brewster                                   (seal)

declared, by the said John Brewster, to be

his Last will and Testament in presence of

us the subscribers.                Wrestling Brewster Jr.

                                                Lidia Foster

                                                John Wadsworth

 

Memorandum, It is to be understood, and my will is, that if in case my two said grandchildren should die, that is Elisha Samson & Rebeccah Samson, should die without issue, or before they come of age, that then their abovesd. legacy, I bequeath, and is to go to my other two abovesd daughters, their heirs & assigns forever. and this addition or memorandum is all, before the ensealing & delivery of this said will. ~

 

Presented for probate on 1 Jan. 1770 by Rebeccah Brewster, the Executrix therein named, and proved by John Wadsworth & Wrestling Brewster junr., two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Rebeccah Brewster, the executrix.

 

The Inventory of the estate of John Brewster, late of Kingston, yeoman, was appraised on 18 May 1770 by Capt. John Wadsworth of Duxborough, Capt. Robert Bradford and Mr. Samuel Kent, of Kingston, and totaled £884.0.3, including his real estate valued at £797.13.9. Rebeccah Brewster, the Executrix, gave her oath to the inventory on 6 Aug. 1770.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 20, pp. 296-297, 393, from FHL microfilm #0550711.

 

 

Will of Spencer Brewster of Kingston, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1832) *

                                Know all men That I Spencer Brewster of Kingston, Plymouth County, Yeoman do make subscribe this Instrument, as a will to dispose of all my personal property of which I may die possessed viz.

  First, I give to Each of my sons, Aaron, Spencer, and Isaac, Five hundred Dollars, to offset the same amount advanced my daughter, Sylvina Jackson at the time of her marriage.

  Second, After all my debts are paid, I give the rest and residue of my personal property of every name & nature to be equally divided between my aforesaid Four children

                And I hereby appoint my two sons Aaron & Isaac Executors to this my will.

        In witness of all which I, Spencer Brewster have hereto set my hand, this tenth day of May in the Year of our Lord One thousand Eight hundred & thirty two.

Witness.                                                                                                                                 Spencer Brewster

 

Presented for probate on the third Monday of Jan. 1744 by Isaac Brewster, one of the Executors therein named, and Thomas P. Beal, who made oath that he wrote the said Instrument at the time it bears date, at the request of said Spencer Brewster, testified that the signature was that of Spencer Brewster. Letters Testamentary were granted to Isaac Brewster, one of the Executors therein named, the other Executor being deceased.

 

Isaac Brewster, of Plymouth, was granted Administration of the estate of Spencer Brewster, late of Kingston, yeoman, on 15 Jan. 1844, with William M. Jackson, of Plymouth, and Spencer Brewster, of Kingston, as sureties.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 86, p. 43-44, from FHL microfilm #0555637, and Vol. 1G, p. 270.

 

 

Will of Benjamin Briant of Scituate, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1694) *

In the name of God amen the twentieth six day of Aprill in the year one thousand six hundred ninty four I Benjamin Briant of Scituate in the County of new Plimouth being going a viage to Sea & being of good & perfect memory thanks be to God for the same & calling to rememberance the uncertain estate of this Transitory life doo make constitute ordain & declare this my last will & Testament & testament will & wills howafter by me made & declared Either by word or writing & this to be taken only for my last will & Testament & none other & now for the settleing of my temporall Estate & such lands & goods & Chattels which I am now possest of I doo order & give in manner and form as followeth That is to say first I will that all those debts & duties which I owe in right to any manner of person be well & truly contented & paid within convenient time after my decease. Item I give & bequeath all my lands both upland and meadow land which—lying & being in Sittuate unto my loving Brother Joseph Briant & Thomas Briant both of Sittuate in the County aforesd Equally to be divided between them. Item I give to my sister Ruth Wandon & Deborah Briant & Egather Briant & Anne Briant all my Moveables both goods Chattels and money to every one of them on Equal part alike & all this to be paid unto my aforesd sisters in half a year after my decease by my Executor: further I will that Joseph Briant shall be Executor to this my last Will & Testament in witness whereof I do hereunto set my hand & seal the day & year above written

Signed Sealed & acknowledged                                                                                       Benjamin Briant                               (seal)

in presents of us

Peter Collamer

Joseph Hincksman

Elisha Turner

 

Probated on 1 Jan. 1702, and proved by Peter Collamer & Joseph Hinckman

 

The Inventory of the goods, Chattels, Rights and Credits of Benjamin Briant, late of Scittuate, was appraised by Joseph Otis and William Perry on 24 Feb. 1703, not totaled, but his 53 acres of upland with a “Rite the sawmill pond” valued at £89.8, and 1 ½ acres of meadow valued at £10. Joseph Briant, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 3 Mar. 1703.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 2, p. 6-7, from FHL microfilm #0550748.

 

 

Will of John Briant of Scituate, Colony of New Plymouth (1684) *

The will & Testament of John Briant Senr of Scituate in ye Colony of New

                                                Plymouth in New England

This twenty fourth day of September in ye year of or Lord one thousand six hundred & eighty foure I John Briant Senr of ye Towne of Scittuate being weake in Body but of sound & perfect memory (praise be given to god for ye same) and knowing ye uncertainty of this Life one earth & being Desireous to settle things in order doe make this my Last Will & Testament in mañer & forme following: That is to say – – first & principally I Comend my soul to almighty God my Creator, & my body to ye earth from Whence it was taken to be buried in such Decent mañer as my Executor here after named shall be thought meet & convenient & as touching such worldly estate as ye Lord in mercy hath lent me, my will & meaning is that ye same shall be imployed & bestowed as hearafter by this my will is expressed: And first I doe hereby revoke renounce frustrate & make void all Wills by me formerly made either by word or Writing, And by these prsents  Declare this my Last Will & Testament. I give & bequeath my Lott of land Lying near Bowston tree by grassie pond to my two sons Samuel Briant & Daniel Briant to be equally Devided between my two said sons to them their heirs & assignes for ever Item i give & bequeath to my son Beniamon Bryant twenty shillings to be paid to him or his heirs at ye age of twenty five years, his Grandfather Heiland haveing by vertue of an an Agreement between us undertaken to provide for him, And my Will & pleasure is that all that my seat of land on which I Dwell both upland & meadow & Swampland with all ye housing there upon Shall be equally Devided between my two sons Joseph Briant & Thomas Briant both for quantity & quallity to each an alike share part & part Like as near as may bee either by mutuall agreement or by discreet & indifferent men duly chose for that purpose togeather with all my meadow at ye place Comonly caled gravely beech: To have and to hold all & Singular ye said premises to ye sd Joseph Bryant & Thomas Briant & the heirs of their bodies Lawfully begotten for ever: Item I give & bequeath to my son Jabesh Briant one Lott of Land Laying on white oake plain Conteyning eight acres or there abouts be it more or less & one other Lott of Ten acres or there abouts be it more or less laid out on ye back side of ye Cedar Swamp together with one acre & one halfe acre of meadow Lying at ye place Comonly caled Gravely Beech above mentioned to have & to hold ye said two Lotts or parcells of Land & one & halfe of meadow to him ye sd Jabesh Bryant & to his heires of his body Lawfully begotten [can’t read], Truely for ever, Item to my Daughter Mary Briant I give & bequeath that feather bed, bolster, pair of sheets, and Rugg which she hath already in possession, Item to my Daughter Ruth I give one feather bed one feather bolster one pair of sheets & one Coverlett & this in ye stead of Ten pounds to be paid to her ye sd Ruth When she attains to ye age of eighteen years. To my three Daughters Debora Bryant – Agatha Bryant & Ann Bryant I give & bequeath fifteene in Dimect[?] silver money that is to each of ye sd three Daughters Last mentioned five pounds in Current silver money of New England to be paid them & every of them at or on their Severall respective marriage Days or as each of them Shall attaine to ye age of eighteene years at ye farthest, Item I give & bequeath to my youngest child my son Elisha Ten pounds to be paid to him when he attains to ye age of Twenty & one years Item I give & bequeath to my son John Bryant ten Shillings to my Daughter Hannah twenty Shilling to my Daughter Sarah the sum of Twenty Shillings To my Daughter Martha Twenty Shillings, and my Will is that these foure particulars last mentioned shall be paid within three years after my Decease all ye Remainder of my estate what ever it be whether in or out of the Jurisdiction not above Disposed by this my Last Will & testament, I give & bequeath to my Dearly beloved wife Mary as her owne proper and finally to be at her Disposall nevertheless for that and that she ye sd Mary may bring up my young children & also have for heselfe a Comfortable subsistance after my Decease to which and also my will & pleasure is that all that land both upland & meadow, by these prsents above bequeathed to my two sons Joseph Briant & Thomas Briant with the Dwelling house & Barne upon it & Swamp Lands appertaining to ye sd lands Shall after my Decease be remained in ye posession & to ye sole use improvemt & behooffe of ye sd Mary my wife untill ye above sd Thomas Briant shall have attained to ye age of twenty & five years she the sd Mary remaining my Widdow but if ye sd Mary my wife Shall after my Decease reenter into Marriage estate then onely ye thirds of ye sd seat or tenement to remaine in her possession or to her use after that ye above sd Joseph Bryant Shall attain to ye age of twenty & one years of ye above sd Joseph to enter on his part & ye sd Thomas to chuse his guardian to improve for him his part of ye tenement, Furthermore I Doe by this my Last Will & Testament Constitute & ordaine my Dearly beloved wife Mary Briant Sole Executrix of this my Last Will & Testament & my trustie friends Anthony Collamore & my Dear son John Briant overseers of this my Last will & Testament intreating their care full oversight of ye Concernes above Specified –

                                                                                                                                                John Briant Senr                              (seal)

This Instrument was Declared by

John Bryant Senir to be his Last will

and Testament ye Twentieth Day of
October in ye year of or Lord one

Thousand six hundred and eighty four

                                in presence of us,

William Barrell

Israell Hobart

Thomas Mighell

Novemb. 4 . 1684

 

Mr Thomas Michell & William Barrell made oath in Court that they see John Briant Signe & Seale & Declare this to be his Last Will and Testament & that to the best of their understanding he was of a Disposeing mind when he so did. March 4th 1684/5

Attest by me Nathaniel Morton

                                Secretary

 

A true Inventory of all & Singular ye goods Chattles of John Briant of Scittuate Lately Deceased as it was taken & apprised by us Whose names are under written this 11 Day of February—1684.

[Totaled £255.19.02]

                                                                                                                John Cushing

                                                                                                                John Allin

March 1684/5

Mary Briant Relict of John Briant Deceased made oath that this is a true Inventory of ye estate of her husband to ye best of her knowledge & when she Discovers more she will cause it to be added to ye Inventory         as attest Nathaniel Morton

                                                                                                                                Secretary

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth Colony Records, Wills Vol. 4, Part 2, p. 86-88.

 

 

Will of Lt. John Briant of Scituate, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1706) *

                                                                                                                                                Scituate March 6: anno: dom 1706

I John briant of scituate In ye county of Plymouth in new-England being weak of body but of sound Disposing mind and memory praises be Rendered to God for the same and being in Dayly Expectation of my Last and Great Change & Desirous to settle things in order before my Decease do therefore hereby make and Declare this my Last will & testament in manor following # Imprimis I Humbly comitt my spirit to ye father of spirits & my body to Decent burial when it shall pleas God to Call me hence & touching such out ward Estate as it hath pleased God to bless me withall my will is that ye same shall be Imployed and bestowed according as in herein expressed ~ ~ ~

Item I give and bequeath unto my oldest son John Briant all my upland and swamp land lying on ye southerly side of the old saw mill ~ Excepting 10 pounds worth of it and one rite in ye old mill pond

Item I Give and Bequeath unto my son Jonathan 5 acres of my upland lying near his house and 10 pounds which I Reserved out of my above sd son Johns Land which sd 5 acres of Land & 10 pounds the sd Jonathan hath already Received — — —

Item I Give and bequeath unto my son David 5 acres of upland and lying 40 Rods in Length 20 Rods in bredth at ye uper end of my home-lot, one side of it joyning to nathaniel Churchs Land, and 11 acres of swamp Land lying adjoyning to willm perrys Land and one acre of swamp Land lying at ye uper end of my meadow —

Item all ye rest of my estate I Leave with my wife mary till my son samll Coms to be one and twenty years old or till ye time come he would have been and then I give to my above sd son John that meadow I bought of Joseph silvester, and to my above sd son Jonathan that meadow I bought of Robert barker, and to my above sd son David that meadow that I bought of Richard dwelly, It and ye on half of a saw mill and a quarter of a Corn mill to be Equally Divided between my three sons as namely John Jonathan and David Injoyning them to pay anually to their Mother ten shillings appeus During her Remaining my widow and no longer

All the above sd bequests I give to them and heirs for ever Item I give to my two sons Joshua and samll all the Rest of my farm or homestead that I now live on upland and meadow with ye Edificis and buildings & orchards there upon to them and to their heirs for ever to be Equally Divided Between them both and if one of them Dy having no Children then the other shall have it all Reserving the southerly end of my Dweling house for my wife During her Remaining my widow and thing nesessary to Keep hous with all also I give to mary my wife a bed and furniture — —

Item I give to my two Daughters mary and martha 30 pounds apiece to be paid out of my movables at mony price half of it to be paid to them when my son samll above sd will be of age to posses or at ye age of 21 years and the other half at their mothers Deceas: the first half to be payd to them by my Executrix and the other half to be payd by my two sons namely Joshua and samll; Hereby Injoyning my two sons namely Joshua and samll to maintain their mother Comfortably During her Remaining my widow  Itim my Debts being paid with my Legacies and funerall I hereby ordain ye Residue of my movable estate with what is above given her If any be left to be Equally Divided betwen my two sons Joshua and samll  Lastly I nominate and appoint mary my well beloved wife to be my Executrix of this my Last will and Testament In Testimony whereof I have here unto sealed and subscribed the Day and year above written

Signd Seald in Sight                                                                                                             John Briant        (seal)

and presents of us

Samll Stetson

Nathll Church

Girsham Stetson

[Written in the margin:] Item I have made Stephen Clap & Benjamin Stetson Jur my over seers & hereby Revoak & make void any will or wills by me made & declare this to be my last will and testament

 

Memorand: that on ye 12th Day febuary 1707 Samll Stetson made oath that he saw Lout. John briant sign and seal and herd him Declare ye above writen Instrument to be his Last will and Testament, And Nathll Church Girsham stetson made oath that they Coming in after wards Lout Briant Desired them to set their hands as witnesses which they did before me                                                                                     Nathll Thomas Judg of Probat

 

The Inventory of ye Estate of Lout. John Briant of scituate who deceased this Life the 26 day of January 1707/8, was appraised by Nathll Church and Wm Perry, and was sworn to by Mary Briant, relict widow, on 12 febuary 1707.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 2, p. 136-138, from FHL microfilm #0550748.

 

 

Will of Mary Briant of Hanover, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1753) *

  In The Name of God Amen  the third Day of December A.D 1753 I Mary Briant of Hannover in the County of Plimouth in NewEngland Widdow being Aged but of Sound Mind do make this my Last Will and Testament in Manner Following (after Committing my Soul to God & my Body To the Earth to Decent Burial)  That is to Say –

Imprimis I Give To my Son Joshua Barstow His Heirs and And Assigns my Pew in Hanover Meeting House ~

Item I give to my Daughter Abigail Briant My Side Saddle & Bridle

Item I Give to my three Daughters Elizebeth Cushing Mary Silvester And Abigail Briant all my Wearing Apparel of Every Sort & Kind

Item, All the rest of my Estate both Real and Personal after my Just Debts are paid out of the Same, I give and bequeath unto my Said Children Joshua, Elizebeth, Mary and Abigail, their Heirs and Assigns forever To be Equally Divided Between them All the Bills, Bonds and Notes of Hand which I have against sd. Joshua to be Accounted Part thereof To be Subject to Division with the Rest of my Estate, Among my sd. Children And Accounted for to them by Said Joshua as fully to all intents as if He had not ben Appointed my Executor. furthermore, my mind and will Is Notwithstanding what is before Expresd. that all the Leagacy in this My will given to Said Abigail Saveing my Side Saddle & Wearing Apparrel Shall forthwith after my Decease, be by Executor put into The hands of Elijah Cushing Esqr. & Elijah Cushing Junr. both of Hannover Aforesd. In trust to be improved to the best advantage for her and Her Heires and not Deliverd. To her or her Heirs until after the Death Of her Husband Mr. Lemuel Briant unless the sd. Elijah Cushing Esqr And Elijah Cushing Junr. Should Apprehend the Said Abigail to be in Want of the Same or any Part thereof –

Lastly. I do hereby Appoint said Joshua Sole Executor of this my Will

In Witness Whereof I hereto set my hand & Seal the Day and year First Before Written Signd. Sealled. Published and Declared by Said Mary Briant to be her Last will and Testament

In Presence of

Ebenezer Thompson                                                                                                           Mary Bryant                      (seal)

Joseph Tolmon

Nehemiah Ramsdell

 

Presented for probate on 2 Mar. 1761 by the Executor therein named, and proved by Mr Ebenezer Thomson and Joseph Tolman, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Joshua Barstow of Hanover, Gentm., the Executor, on 2 Mar. 1761.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 16, p. 49-50, from FHL microfilm #0551543.

 

 

Will and Probate of Charles Bridges of Flushing, Queens County, Province of New York (1682) *

In the name of God amen I Charles Bridges and Sarah Bridges his Wife takeing into their Consideration their aged and Decaying time and knowing that the Houer of Death is Certaine Butt the Houer of the same is uncertaine not willing to Depart this world before haveing Disposed of their worldly Goods (soe is it) that when it shall Please God to Call Either of us out of this world

We Bequesth our Soules to God and our Bodyes to Christian Buriall where and in what Place as shall be thought meete fit and most Convenient as the time will Permitt. Firstly we the foresaid Charles and Sarah Bridges Haveing Given and Alienated from us unto sd. Sonne Thomas Willett the halfe of our Land &c Lyeing in Newtons Neck as by the Deed of Gift appears, the Other Halfe with the Rest of our Estate or wordly Goods shall Remayne For us Both and the Longest Liver of us shall Enjoye all without any Molestacon trouble or Pretences of Either of our Relations wch. wee Doe Hereby fully and wholly anullate any who should make any Challenge or Pretencyes after Either of our Deceas. Further in case I Come first to Departe this world then my Desire is that my Brother Thomas Bridges should Have       Pounds out of the Estate as a Legacy And the Rest to Remaine as above written

                Att a Councell held in New Yorke the twenty Eighth Day of August 1682:

Present   Capt Anthony Brockholls Mr. Fred Phillips Mr. Step:v:Courtland,

John Lawrence Junr. Sworne saith that in or about the Months of June or July Last he being in Discourse wth Charles Bridges Deceased Between the Town of Flushing And his House walkeing to the Towne the said Bridges told him that he had Ordered it as his will That the Longest Liver of him or his Wife should take all the Estate, only he Intended a Small Matter as A Legacy to his Brother Thomas if he should Dye first and menconed About Fouer or Five Pounds Butt Did not Resolve what, and Further sayth nott butt that the will Produced in Writeing is the said Bridges hand.

                                                                                                                                                John Lawrence Junr.

   John Smith Rock being sworne sayth that about the Beginning of July Last being in Company with Charles Bridges Deceased att his House and Walking in the yard the said Bridges told him that his wife and he had Concluded to keepe what they had as Long as they Lived and when Either Dyed the Longest Live to take all.

                                                                                                                                                The marke of

                                                                                                                                                John Smith Rock

   Mendert Courten Sworne sayth that About the 13th of June Last past he Being in Discourse with Charles Bridges of Flushing Late Deceased Did heare him say that he had made his Will that they that Lived Longest of his Wife of himselfe should have all the Estate and that the will Produced in Writeing is the Handwriting of the said Charles Bridges and Further sayth not.

                                                                                                                                                Mendert Courten

 

The Probate of the will of Charles Bridges Late of Flushing Deceased and Admicon Granted thereupon to Sarah his Widdow & Relict.

Anthony Brockholls Esqr. Commander in Cheife and Councell of the Province of New Yorke To all To whom this shall come or may Concerne Greeting

Whereas Charles Bridges late of Flushing Deceased Did in his Lifetime make and Prepare his Last Will & Testamt. in writeing with his owne Hand Intending to Signe Seale and Publish the Same in Usual forme Accordingly Butt by a suddaine Change and Departure from this Life Being Prevented: the same will as found after his Decease all of his Owne Hand Writeing Butt not Signed and Sealed NOW KNOW YEE that the Day of the Date hereof the said Will Being Produced before the said Commander and Councell and Severall Prsons of good faith and Creditt Produced and sworne who Declared that they some Shorte time Before the Decease of the said Charles Bridges heard him say and Relate that he had made his will to the Effect and Purposte that the said Writeing menconed and that the said written will Produced was of the Proper Hand writteing of the said Charles Bridges Deceased the same was Approved Admitted and Allowed off to be the Last will and Testamt. of the said Charles Bridges Deceased as pr the said Will and the severall Depositions Hereunto Likewise Annexed Appears. And the said Charles Bridges Haveing while he Lived and att the time of his Death Goods and Chattles within this Province and Govermt. of New Yorke and Sarah Bridges his Widdow and Relict to whom his whole Estate by the said Will is Given and Bequeathed Desireing to have Power of Admicon thereupon the Admicon of all and Singuler the said Goods and Chattles and the said Will is Hereby Committed unto the said Sarah Bridges well and Truly to Administer Upon the Same Accordingly and to make a true and Perfect Account of her said Admicon in the time by Law Requires Given under my Hand and Seale in New Yorke the 28th Day of August in the thirty fourty yeare of the Reigne of Soverigne Lord Charles the Second by the Grace of God of Engld. Scottland, France and Ireland King Defender of the Faith &c. Annoq. Domini 1682:

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from New York County Probate Vol. 2, p. 439-440, copied from Original Libor 2, p. 299-302.

 

 

Will of Ebenezer Briggs of Middleborough, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1795) *

In the name of God Amen – I Ebenezer Briggs of Middleborough in the County of Plymouth & Commonwealth of Massachusetts, yeoman, being weak in body but of perfect mind & memory, thanks be given to God therefor, calling unto mind the mortality of my body & knowing that it is appointed for all men once to die, do make & ordain this my Last will & testament and desire it to be recieved by all, as such, that is to say, principally & first of all, I give & recommend my soul into the hands of God that gave it & my body I recommend to the earth, to be buried in decent Christian burial at the discretion of my Executor, hereafter named, nothing doubting but at the general resurrection I shall recieve the same again, by the mighty power of God, and as touching such worldly estate wherewith it hath pleased God to bless me in this life, I Give, demise & dispose of the same in the following manner & form

   Imprimis – I Give & bequeath to Abigail my well beloved wife, the improvement of one third part of my real estate, during her natural life together with one quarter part of my personal estate, during her natural life & at her decease to descend to my Daughters & their heirs

   Item – I Give & bequeath to my Son Ebenezer Briggs the whole of all my real estate lying in Middleborough, Plymton & Carver & to his heirs & assigns forever, together with the buildings thereon, & also my part of the saw mill and also all debts due to me of any kind whatsoever

   Item – I Give to my Daughter Lusanna Hollis, one quarter part of my personal estate exclusive of what I have given to my two youngest Daughters Abigail & Sarah in this my Last will & testament & not before disposed of

  Item – I Give & bequeath to the heirs of my Daughter Tabitha Curtis one quarter part of my personal estate, excepting what I have given to my two Daughters – vizt. Abigail & Sarah, & my will is, that Diana Curtis Daughter to Tabitha Curtis deceased shall have & recieve all the furniture that I recieved with the said Diana Curtis at the death of her mother.

  Item – I Give to my Daughter Abigail a Bed Bedding & Linnen equal to what I gave to my other Daughters at their marriage, together with eleven pounds out of what shall then remain of my personal estate & also one quarter part of the remainder of my personal estate not before disposed of

  Item – I Give to my Daughter Sarah a bed & Linnen & bedding equal to what I gave to my other Daughters at their marriage, together with eight pounds out of what shall then remain of my personal Estate, & also one quarter part of the remainder of my personal estate not before disposed of.— and my will is & I do positively order my Son Ebenezer Briggs to pay all my just debts & funeral charges, & also to my two sons Asa & Joseph six shillings each at my decease

  Lastly – I do constitute make & ordain my son Ebenezer Briggs my Sole Executor of this my Last will & testament, and do hereby utterly disallow revoke & disannul all & every other former will & testament, Legacies & bequeaths & Executors by me in any ways before named, willed & bequeathed, Ratifying & confirming this & no other to be my Last will & testament

  In Witness whereof I have hereunto Set my hand & Seal this fourteenth day of February in the year of our Lord, one thousand Seven hundred and ninety five

Signed, Sealed, Published, Pronounced &                                                                                      his

declared by the said Ebenezer Briggs as                                                                         Ebenezer X  Briggs                              (seal)

his Last will & testament in the presence                                                                                       mark

of us the subscribers

                Nehemiah Cobb

                Elijah Bisbe junr

                George Cobb

 

Presented for probate on 7 Apr. 1795 by Ebenezer Briggs, the Executor therein named, and proved by Nehemiah Cobb and Elijah Bisbe junr., two of the witnesses.

 

Nemiah Cobb of Carver Gentleman, William Shaw Gentm, & James Soule, yeoman, both of Middleborough, were appointed to appraise the estate of Ebenezer Briggs, late of Middlebo, yeoman, on 7 Apr. 1795. The Inventory of all the estate of Ebenezer Briggs, late of Middleborough, not dated, totaled only £68.10.4, no real estate, but some livestock. Ebenezer Briggs, the executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 3 July 1795.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 35, pp. 227-229, 283, from FLH microfilm #0550718.

 

 

Will of Ebenezer Briggs of Middleborough, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1806) *

        In the Name of God amen I Ebenezer Briggs of Middleborough in the County of Plymouth Husbandman, being through the Goodness of God in comfortable Health, & of a sound disposing Mind, calling to Mind the Mortality of Man & that it is appointed for all men once to die, to therefore under the Influence of these Impressions make & ordain this my last Will & Testament And first I surrender my Soul into the hands of that Being who gave it beseeching him to receive it graciously & love it freely. My Body I commit to the Earth to be buried in decent Christian Manner at the Discretion of my Executor hereafter named, my Earthly good Things wherewith I have been favoured I dispose of them as follows —

        Imprimis I give & bequeath to my beloved Wife Elizabeth the use & Improvement of all my indoor Moveables during her nataral Life one Cow to be provided & kept for her by my Son Ebenezer & also the use of a Horse for her to ride as occasion may require to be furnished by my said Son Ebenezer.—

        Item I give to my Son Abiather Briggs one Dollar. —

        Item I give to my son Levi Briggs one Dollar & one half my wearing Apparel. —

        Item I give to my son Elisha Briggs one half of my wearing Apparel. —

        Item I give to my Daughter Matilda Pickens one feather Bed & one third part of my indoor moveables after the decease of my Wife. —

        Item I give to my Daughter Elizabeth Nelson one third part of my indoor moveables after the decease of my Wife —

        Item I give to my Daughter Abigail Chace one third part of my indoor moveables after the decease of my wife. —

        Item I give & bequeath to my Son Ebenezer Briggs all the moveable & personal Estate of which I may die seized, of what name or nature soever excepting only such portions thereof as I have in this Instrument otherwise disposed of, he my said Son Ebenezer paying the Legacies before given to my said Sons Levi & Elisha, & also he paying my just debts & funeral Charges —

        And I hereby constitute & appoint my said Son Ebenezer Briggs my sole & only Executor of this my last Will & Testament, hereby ratifying & confirming this as my last Will & Testament utterly disannulling & revoking any & all former wills which I may have made.—

  In Testimony & confirmation of all which I the said Ebenezer Briggs hereunto set my hand & seal this sixteenth day of May in the Year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred & six —

Signed sealed & published by the said

Ebenezer Briggs as his last Will and

Testament in the presence of us who

in his presence & in the presence of each                                                                       Ebenezer Briggs                               (seal)

other have hereunto subscribed our Names

        Anna Peirce

        Polly Morton

        Nathl. Morton junr.

 

Presented for probate on 1 Nov. 1808 by Ebenezer Briggs 2d, the Executor therein named, and proved by Polly Morton & Nathl. Morton junr. two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Ebenezer Briggs 2d., the before named Executor.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 42, p. 427-428, from FHL microfilm #0550902.

 

 

Will of Ebenezer Briggs of Middleborough, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1824) *

  In the name of God Amen. I Ebenezer Briggs of Middleboro’ in the County of Plymouth Yeoman being weak in body but of a sound and perfect mind and memory blessed be almighty god for the same, do hereby make & publish this my last Will & Testament in manner & form following that is to say –

First I give & bequeath unto my beloved wife Betsey Briggs the full improvement of one third part of all my Real Estate that I shall die, seized of also the improvement of one third part of my live stock during her natural life and also all my indoor moveables of every description except my wearing apparel to be at her own disposal –

Item. I will & bequeath to my beloved son George Briggs (in addition to what I have already given him) one dollar to be paid him by my Executors in one year after my decease –

Item. I give & bequeath to the heir of my beloved son Jonathan Briggs decd the sum of one dollar to be paid her by my Executors in one year after my decease –

Item. I give & bequeath to my beloved son Silvanus Briggs that land called the McFarling place, that I bought of Andrew Leach and also my lot of meadow that my father gave me lying on Winatuxet River the above said in addition to what I shall hereafter give him in this will to him the said Silvanus his heirs and assigns forever –

Item. I will and bequeath to Ebenezer Briggs my beloved son (in addition to what I have already done and given him) one dollar to be paid by my Executor in one year after my decease –

Item. I will and bequeath to my beloved son Asa Briggs (in addition to what I have already done & given him) one dollar to be paid him in one year after my decease –

Item. I will & bequeath to my beloved son Bennet Briggs (in addition to the contents of a note of hand & interest thereon that my executors are to pay after my decease viz) one dollar to be paid him by my Executors hereafter named –

Item. I will and bequeath to my beloved daughter Tabetha Reed one hundred dollars to be paid her by my Executors hereafter named in one year after my decease & also a right to live in my house, while she remains in the situation she is now –

Item. I will and bequeath to my beloved daughter Molly Briggs one hundred dollars to be paid her in one year after my decease to be paid by my Executors hereafter named and also a right to live in my house while she shall remain in single life ~

Item. I will & bequeath to my beloved sons Silvanus Briggs & Sebra Briggs in equal shares between them all my real estate not heretofore disposed of in this will containing my homestead farm my cedar swamp & saw-mill together with all my live stock, farming utensils and all the estate of every description that I have not heretofore disposed of in this will by their the said Silvanus & Sebery paying all my just debts & the settlement of my estate together with paying all the legacies that I have in this will ordered them to pay and they the said Silvanus & Sebery are to receive all that may be due to me from others to their heirs & assigns forever –

Lastly, I do hereby constitute appoint & ordain my said sons Silvanus Briggs & Sebery Briggs joint Executors to this my last Will and Testament confirming this and revoking all other Wills hopeing all things in this will and testament will be complied with & fulfilled –

  In testamony whereof I the said Ebenezer Briggs have hereunto set my hand and seal to this my last Will and Testament this eleventh day of February in the year of our Lord One thousand eight hundred & twenty four

Signed Sealed published and declared by the above named Ebenezer Briggs to be his last Will & Testament in the presence of us who have hereunto subscribed our names as witnesses in the presence of the Testator

Thos Sturtevant, Neheh Cobb, Olive Washburn  {                                                         Ebenezer Briggs                               (seal)

 

Presented for probate on 15 Mar. 1824 by Silvanus Briggs and Sebra Briggs, the executors therein named, and proved by Thomas Sturtevant and Olive Washburn, two of the witnesses. Letters Testamentary were granted to Silvanus Briggs and Sebra Briggs.

 

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 58, p. 31-33, from FHL microfilm #0550910.

 

 

Will and Codicil of Ebenezer Briggs of Middleborough, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1844) *

        I Ebenezer Briggs of Middleborough in the County of Plymouth Clerk, being of sound and disposing mind & memory, do dispose of all my worldly estate, in the following manner to wit:

        First, I do give and bequeath to my son Ebenezer Briggs his heirs and assigns, my homestead farm, situated in said Middleboro, togeth with my cedar Swamp lot situate in Freetown in the County of Bristol – subject to the terms and conditions hereafter expressed I also give to said Ebenezer all my stock and farming utensils, my chaise and harness and my wagons & harness – Also my Secretary and the stove and stove pipe set in my kitchen, and all debts and sums of money due & owing to me from all persons whatever.

        The conditions upon which said real estate is bequeathed are as follows to wit: That my said son, his heirs and assigns, shall suffer and permit my daughter Catharine Briggs during the term of her natural life, to reside in the dwelling house upon said farm & compose a part of his or their family, the said Catharine while in health and of ability thereto, contributing a portion of her services for the benefit of said Ebenezer or his heirs; and that said Ebenezer his heirs and assigns be required to find & provide for said Catharine proper fuel, food, sustenance and wearing apparel, at all times during said term– and nurses and medical aid, in sickness as aforesaid– And in case of said son or his heirs and said Catharines being unable to live together and composing one family, as aforesaid, my said son and his heirs or assigns shall be required to make for said Catharine all such provisions as he or they, are above or hereafter required, to find and provide, in case of said Catherines composing a part of the family of said Ebenezer or his heirs; provided however that if said Catharine while in health & of ability to contribute a portion of her services in aid of said Ebenezer, or his heirs as aforesaid, shall unreasonably neglect or refuse to render assistance as aforesaid, after being by him or them requested so to do, in that case said Ebenezer, or his heirs and assigns shall not thereafterwards be obliged to find and provide wearing apparel for said Catharine as aforesaid; nor to defray the expenses of medical aid in any subsequent sickness of said Catharine– And to prevent all misapprehension as to the extent of said Ebenezer his heirs and assigns obligations for the support & maintenance of said Catharine as aforesaid, it is hereby ordered by me, that my said son his heirs and assigns shall if the said Catharine require it, find sufficient fuel for one fire constantly & for two fires occasionally properly cut and fitted for her use; & in sickness conveyed into her room, and such wearing apparel, meats, drinks, bread stuffs vegetables and family stores, as may be proper and suitable to her condition, and of as good quality and as liberally furnished, for said Catharine, as she has been accustomed to have and enjoy the same, while she was a member of my family; together with suitable nurses and medicinal aid in sickness as aforesaid –

        And I do moreover give and bequeath to said Catharine, for her use, during the term aforesaid, the South West room in the lower floor of my dwelling house, and the two bed rooms and the clothes room, next adjoining thereto together with the Northeast chamber of said house and the closet in the same; also a privilege in the kitchen & oven to bake & wash, if it should at any time be needed by said Catharine– and all other suitable accommodations in any other part of said house, as also in the well & out houses & door yards that may be necessary to the convenient enjoyment of the privileges above granted, to said Catharine for the term aforesaid– and in case of the decay or destruction of the said dwelling house by any means, whatever, during the life time of said Catharine, I do order that said Ebenezer his heirs and assigns, be required to find and provide said Catharine, during said term as good accommodations & an equal amount of privileges, in some other suitable tenement to be placed in or near the site of the aforesaid dwelling house– And in case of the marriage of said Catharine all the allowances and privileges above granted to her are to cease and determine. –

        And I do furthermore direct, that all the real estate above bequeathed to said Ebenezer as aforesaid, shall at all times during said Catherines life be chargeable in whose hands the same may happen to be with the privileges of a house & habitation for said Catharine, and with her support & maintenance as aforesaid.

        Second I do give and bequeath to my son Daniel Briggs one half of my apparel, the one half of my Library & Six hundred Dollars in money. –

        Third I do devise and bequeath unto my son Samuel Briggs his heirs and assigns a certain lot of land owned by me and called Fullers pasture. Also my lot of land in Bettys Neck so called – Also one half of my wearing apparel and one half of my Library and one hundred Dollars in money

        Fourth, I do further give and bequeath to my said daughter Catharine above named all my household furniture, and three hundred dollars in money

        Fifth, I do give and bequeath unto my daughter Polly N Thomas, the sum of Two hundred dollars in money –

        Lastly, I do give and bequeath unto my son Ebenezer above named all the rest and residue of my real and personal estate, not otherwise disposed of, to him and his heirs forever; and I do also constitute said Ebenezer the Executor of this my last will & testament, who is hereby required to pay all my just debts, funeral expenses & legacies out of any of the personal estate above bequeathed to him– The pecuniary legacies payable as aforesaid to his brothers and sisters, to be paid by him in eighteen months after my decease, and all specific legacies, to be paid and delivered to the persons entitled thereto upon the Probate of this Will—

        In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this      day of October in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and forty four.

                                                                                                                                                Ebenezer Briggs                               (seal)

        The foregoing instrument was signed and sealed by the testator aforesaid in our presence who also attested the same in his presence & in the presence of each other, at his request, and he declared the same to be his last Will and Testament

                                                Levi Peirce                            }

                                                Allen Thatcher                     } Witnesses

                                                William M. Tobey              }

 

        I Ebenezer Briggs above named being of sound and disposing mind & memory, and considering the circumstances which have taken place by the death of my two sons Daniel & Samuel Briggs since the foregoing Will was made by me, do make the following alterations therein and annex thereto this Codicil, viz:

                                Instead of the sum of Six hundred Dollars above given to my son Daniel Briggs deceased, I do order an abatement of Two hundred Dollars thereof to be made & that four hundred Dollars only be paid to the heirs at law of my son Daniel Briggs. Also my Library which in said will I give to my sons Daniel & Samuel, I do revoke said bequest & do now give the same to my Son Ebenezer & my daughter Catharine Briggs the same to be divided equally between them. And that lot of land called Fuller’s pasture which I bequeathed as above in my Will to my son Samuel Briggs I do revoke the same & do now give and bequeath the same to my son Ebenezer Briggs his heirs and assigns

                                                                                                                                                Ebenezer Briggs                               (seal)

        The above Codocil was signed & sealed by the testator in our presence and attested and subscribed by us at his request in the presence of the testator and of each other. –                                                                  Job Pierce

                                                Charity Pickens

                                                Matilda Pickens

 

Probated on the first Tuesday of May, 1851, presented for probate by Ebenezer Briggs, the Executor therein named, the will proved by Allen Thatcher and William M. Tobey, and the Codicil proved by Job Peirce and Charity Pickens. Letters Testamentary were granted to Ebenezer Briggs, the Executor therein named.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 93, p. 179-182, from FHL microfilm #0555641.

 

 

Will of Abijah Brown of Scituate, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1823) *

                In the name of God, amen. I, Abijah Brown of Scituate in the County of Plymouth, yeoman, being of sound and disposing mind & memory, and believing it my duty to make a disposition of my estate otherwise than the law would settle it, after recommending my soul to God to who gave it, and my body to decent burial, do make & ordain this to be my last Will and Testament, herein and hereby disposing of my worldly estate in manner following

Imprimis, I give to my beloved wife, Bathsheba Brown, all the money, and securities for money, I shall leave. Also, one cow, and two beds & furniture, and such other parts of my personal estate as shall be necessary for her use in the house, and for the improvement of the farm, to her own dispose to and among my children and grand-children as she shall see cause. Also I give her the use and improvement of all my real estate during the time she shall remain my Widow

Item, All the rest of my personal Estate to be sold at Publick Vendue by my Executrix herein after named. After paying all my just debts & charges to be divided as follows. My wife, Bathsheba Brown, to have one half thereof, and the other half to be equally divided between my seven children viz Benjamin Brown, Lucy Ruggles wife of Thomas Ruggles, Joseph Northey Brown, John Brown, Ruth Damon wife of Samuel Damon, Ebenezer Brown, and Betsey Brown, except the bed & furniture hereinafter given to Betsey, which is not to be sold nor divided. But in case the personal Estate hereby directed to be sold should be insufficient to pay my just debts & charges, the deficiency shall be made up by sale of my outlands other than my wood land, by Elijah Damon’s.

Item, I give to my daughter Betsey Brown, one bed and the furniture which she made, and, at the decease of my wife, the China plates which were her mother’s

Item, I do hereby nominate & appoint my wife, Bathsheba Brown, to be Executrix to this my last Will and Testament, hereby revoking all Wills heretofore made.

Lastly, After my Wife’s improvement of my real estate shall have ceased, it is my will and direction that my oldest son who may be living at that time, shall, at publick vendue, sell and dispose of the whole of said Real Estate (except my burying yard on my said farm, which is never to be sold) in one or more parcels, as shall produce the most money, and the proceeds disposed of as follows Betsey Brown to have Eighty dollars, and the rest to be equally divided between my seven children aforenamed. The sale of the homestead shall be on condition that the purchaser or purchasers shall maintain and keep a good stone wall around the burying yard on my said farm.

        In witness of all and each of the things herein contained, I have hereunto set my hand and seal this ninth day of June in the year of our Lord One thousand eight hundred and twenty-three

Signed, sealed, and declared

by the above named Abijah                                                                                              Abijah Brown                                    (seal)

Brown to be his last Will and

Testament, in presence of us, who, in the presence of the testator, and of each other, have hereunto subscribed our names as witnesses

                                                                                                                                                Jno. Collamore

                                                                                                                                                Michal Collamore

                                                                                                                                                Michal Collamore Jr.

 

Presented for probate on 4 Sept. 1827 by Bathsheba Brown, the Executrix therein named, and proved by John Collamore and Michal Collamore Jr., two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Bathsheba Brown, the before named Executrix.

 

John Collarmore Esqr., Charles Simmons, yeoman, and Elijah Damon, yeoman, all of Scituate, were appointed to appraise the Estate of Abijah Brown, late of Scituate, on 5 June 1827. The Inventory of the Estate of Abijah Brown, late of Scituate, dated 13 June 1827, totaled $1233.99, including his real estate valued at $961, of which his homestead farm was valued at $725. Bathsheba Brown, the Executrix, gave her oath to the inventory on 4 Sept. 1827.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 64, p. 238-241, from FHL microfilm #0555258.

 

 

Will of Joseph P. Brown of Plymouth, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1877) *

I Joseph P. Brown of Plymouth in the County of Plymouth, make, publish and declare the following to be my last will and testament.

First, I direct that all just claims against my estate be satisfied and paid.

Second. I give, devise and bequeath to my wife Margaret W. Brown, all the property and estate, of every description, of which I may die seized and possessed, or which I may have the right to dispose of by will. To have and to hold the same to her and her heirs and assigns, in fee simple forever.

Third. I appoint said Margaret executrix of this will, and I desire and direct that, so far as the law will permit, she be exempt from giving Bond or sureties for her faithful discharge of said trust.

   Witness my hand and seal this eighth day of February in the year eighteen hundred and seventy seven.

                                                                                                                                                Joseph P. Brown                              (seal)

Signed, sealed, published and declared by said Joseph P. Brown to be his last will, in presence of us, who, in his presence, and at his request, and in presence of each other, have hereto set our names as witnesses.

                                                                Jno. J. Russell

                                                                James Collins

                                                                S. P. Brown

 

Presented for probate on the second Monday of Sept. 1877 by Margaret W. Brown, of Plymouth, and requested that she may be exempt from giving a surety or sureties on her bond. Letters Testamentary were granted to Margaret W. Brown, of Plymouth, on 10 Sept. 1877.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 142, p. 317, from FHL microfilm #0556649, and Vol. 134, p. 100.

 

 

Will of Hannah Bryant of Scituate, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1735) *

In the Name of God Amen the fourteenth Day of October Anno Domini-1735. I Hannah Bryant of Scittuate in the County of Plymouth in the Province of the Massachusetts Bay in New-England Spinster, being weak in Body, but of Sound Memory calling to Mind my Mortality, do make & ordain this my last Will & Testament in manner following, Hereby revoking & making null & void all former Will or Wills by Me made either by Word or Writing Ratifying & Confirming this & no other to be my last Will & Testament— First & Principally I Give & Recommend my Soul into the Hands of God that gave it, & my Body to ye Earth to be buried after a Decent & Christian Manner; And as touching my Worldly Estate I Give & Bequeath & dispose of the Same in Manner & form following —

Imprimis. I Give & Bequeath unto my Son Richard Church ten Shillings in Bills of Credit & to my Daughter Hannah Sturtevant ten Shillings in Bills of Credit & to my Daughter Ruth Hatch ten Shillings in Bills of Credit to be paid by my Executor hereafter named within twelve Months after my Decease

Itm I Give unto my Daughter Bathsheba Palmer Eight Pounds to make up her Portion yet remaining due unto her from the Estate of my Husband David Bryant deceased if so much be her due —

Itm I Give to my Daughter Deborah Bryant fourteen Pounds to Make up her Portion yet remaining due unto her from the Estate of my late Husband David Bryant Deceasd—

Itm My Will is that the Remainder of my Estate be equally Divided between my Six Children viz: David Bryant Elizabeth [Perry?], Mary Briant, Jacob Bryant Bathsheba Palmer & Deborah Bryant— And I do hereby Ordain Constitute & Appoint my Son David Bryant & my Son Jacob Bryant to be the Executrs of this my last Will & Testament. In Witness whereof I have hereunto Set my Hand & Seal the Day & Year abovewritten                                                                  her

Signed Sealed & Declared by                                                                                           Hannah  X   Bryant                             (seal)

the Abovesd Hannah Bryant                                                                                                           mark

to be her last Will & Testamt.

In Presence of us Witnesses

Nathanl. Eells

Benja Stockbridge

 

Proved on 20 Feb. 1735 by Benjamin Stockbridge, one of the witnesses, and on 6 Apr. 1736 by Nathaniel Eells, the other witness. Administration of the estate was granted on 10 Apr. 1736 to David Bryant and Jacob Bryant, sons of the deceased.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Hannah Bryant, late of Scittuate, was appraised by Gershom Stetson, Elijah Stetson, and Saml. Bryant on 17 Nov. 1735, not totaled, and no real estate, but it included a mare with saddle & bridle, a heifer, 2 sheep, 2 swine, and 5 geese. David Bryant and Jacob Bryant, the executors, gave their oath to the inventory on 6 Apr. 1736.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 7, p. 207-209, from FHL microfilm #0550513.

 

 

Will of Hannah Bryant of Middleborough, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1822) *

        In the name of God amen. Know all men by these presents, that I Hannah Bryant of Middleborough, in the county of Plymouth and Commonwealth of Massachusetts, being weak of body but of a sound and disposing memory, blessed be God for the same, yet knowing the mortality of my body, that it is appointed for all men once to die, do therefore ordain this to be my last will and Testament, to remain firm & inviolable forever.

First. I give and bequeath to my sister Elizabeth King the wife of John King, and unto her heirs and assigns forever, my great coat and all of my caps.

Second. I give and bequeath to my Granddaughter Hannah Sparrow wife of James Sparrow & to her heirs and assigns forever the residue of my property of every description that I shall die seized of.

  My will is and I therefore constitute and appoint my grand-son in law James Sparrow to be the sole Executor to this my last will and Testament – thus hoping that this my last will, will be safely kept & executed according to the true intent & meaning thereof – I therefore commend my sould to God who gave it & my body to the dust be a decent burial.

        In Testimony whereof I the said Hannah Bryant have hereunto set my hand and seal this eighteenth day of December Eighteen hundred and twenty two.

Signed, Sealed, pronounced and

declared by the said Hannah

Bryant to be her last will and                                                                                                            her

Testament in presence of                                                                                                   Hannah  X  Bryant

Thos Sturtevant                                                                                                                                mark

Southworth Ellis

Thomas Bennet

 

Presented for probate on 7 Jan. 1823 by James Sparrow, the Executor therein named, and proved by Southworth Ellis and Thomas Bennet, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to James Sparrow, the before named Executor.

No inventory of her estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 56, p. 363-364, from FHL microfilm #0550909.

 

 

Will of James Bryant of Plympton, Plymouth County, Massachusetts Bay (1776) *

In the Name of God Amen I James Bryant of Plymton In the County of Plymouth in the State of the Massachusetts Bay in New-England Husbandman being very Sick & Weak But in & of Perfect Mind & Memory thanks be Given unto God Calling to mind the Mortality of my Body knowing it is Appointed for all Men Once to Die Do make & Ordain this my Last Will & Testament that is to Say Principally and first of all I Recommend my Soul into the hands of Almighty God that Gave it & my Body I Recommend to the Earth to be Buried In Decent Christian at the Discretion of my Executor nothing Doubting But at the General Resurrection I Shall Receive the Same again by the Power of God And as Touching Such Worldly Estate where with it hath Pleased God to Bless me in this Life I Give & Demise and Dispose of the Same in the Following Form and Manner, Vizt. I Give & Bequeath unto my Well-beloved Jabez Bryant the One fourth Part of my Fresh Meadow which Lyeth in Hallefax on Munponset Brook so Called also the One fourth Part of the Cedar Timber that hath or Shall Grow in my Cedar Swamp Also about Twelve Acres of Land Lying on the Easterly side of my farm which is Bounded as followeth, Vizt. begining at the Side of Iron River Pond in the Range between the Land of Mr. Nathll. Bonney Late of Plymton Deceasd & my Land Runing by the Side of Said Pond Nine Rods to a Stake with Stones About it, thence South fifty One Degrees West to a Stake with Stones about it, 28 Rods from thence South Thirty Seven Degrees West to a Red Oak Saplin marked with Stones about it, Twenty Eight Rods from thence from thence South five Degrees West forty five Rods to a Stake Standing in the Range of the Land of Mr. Nathll. Bryant from thence by the Range of said Nathll Bryants Land to the Land belonging to the Estate of the Said Nathll. Bonney & from thence by the Range of said Land to the Bounds first Mentioned ~ Also after my Just Debts and funeral Charges are payed I do give and bequeath to my Well beloved Wife Abiah Bryant the Use & Improvment of all the Residue of my estate both Real & Personal which I have not given to my Son Jabez as is above expressed so long as she shall remain my Widow and when she shall cease to be my Widow I give & bequeath unto my well beloved Son Jacob Bryant the one half of my Fresh Meadow which lyeth Hallifax & also the one half of my Cedar Swamp And also the one half of all the Residue of all my real estate which is not given as before expressed exclusive of the remaining forth parts of my fresh Meadow & Cedar Swamp which I give to my well beloved Son Nathan Bryant after the term that my Wife Abiah shall cease to be my Widow also I give to my son Nathan the whole of the remaining part of my Real estate which I have not given to my Sons Jabez & Jacob as is before expressed ~

I also give to my Son Jacob Bryant all my Personal estate at the expiration of my Sd. Wifes Widowhood if any should remain at that time Furthermore it is my Will that my Son Nathan should pay a Debt which I am indebted to Capt. Gideon White of Plymouth or if the Sd. Nathan should refuse or Neglect to pay Sd. Debt I hereby order my executor to pay Sd. debt out of that part of the estate which I have given to my Son Nathan & the remaining part of my Just Debts & funaral Charges to be payed equally out of the estate that I have given to my Sons Nathan & Jacob in proportion as I have given it to them ~  Furthermore it is my Will that my Son David Bryant whom I look upon as not to be capable of providing for his own Support shall be maintained, & well supported out of that part of the Estate which I have given to my Wife the improvement of and for her to have the advantage of the Sd. Davids Labour so long as she remains my Widow and support him And when my Sons Nathan & Jacob come in possession of the estate which I have given them as above they are to Support the Sd. David & to have the Advantage of his Labour in like manner their mother has whilst She improves the same Also I constitute & Appoint Jedediah Holmes Sole Executor of this my last Will & Testament—  And I do hereby Uterly revoke & disalow all other or former Wills Legacies Bequests or Executors by me before Willed Named or bequeathed rattifying & confirming this & no other to be my last Will and Testament in witness whereof I have hereunto set my Hand Seal this fourth Day of December in the Year of our Lord one Thousand Seven Hundred and Seventy Six ~  1776

Signed Sealed in the                                                                                                                    his

Presence of Us                                                                                                                      James  B  Bryant                 (seal)

Nathaniel Bryant                                                                                                                        mark

Daniel Bonney

Lucy Bryant

 

Presented for probate on 7 Apr. 1777 by Jedediah Holmes, the Executor therein named, and proved by Nathll. Bryant, Daniel Bonney, and Lucy Bryant, the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Jedediah Holmes, the Executor.

 

The Inventory of the estate of Mr. James Bryant, late of Plymton, was appraised on 7 Apr. 1777 by Nathaniel Bryant, John Bryant, and John Johnson, and totaled £114.5.7, including his homestead valued at £87. Nathll. Bryant and John Bryant gave their oath to the inventory on 7 July 1777, John Johnson being one of the people called Quakers affirmed the same, and Jedediah Holmes, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory at the same time.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 24, p. 377-380, from FHL microfilm #0550713.

 

 

Will of Job Bryant of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1807) *

In the Name of God amen I Job Bryant of Bridgwater in the County of Plymouth Gentleman being weak in Body but of sound Mind & Memory Thanks be given to God therefor calling to mind the Mortality of my Body do this twenty ninth day of November Anno Domini one Thousand eight hundred & Seven make & ordain this my last Will & Testament, that is to say, principally & first of all I give & recommend my Soul into the hand of God who gave it & my Body I recommend to the Earth to be buried in a decent manner at the discretion of my Executor hereafter named & touching, such worldly Estate wherewith God hath blessed me, do dispose of the same in the following Manner & form, that is to say –

        Imprimis I give to my Wife Mary Bryant the use & Improvement, of the South room & south Bedroom & half the Buttery or Milk room & the privilege of using the Kitchen for washing & baking in my Dwelling house also one half of the Cellar for and during the term of her natural Life, I also give her the use & Improvement of one Cow to be kept by my Son Oliver Summer and Winter during the Term aforesaid, I also give her the use and Improvement of all my household Furniture for & during the Term aforesaid –

        Item I give to my several Children hereafter named, to wit, to Nathan Bryant Calvin Bryant, Job Staples Bryant, Samuel Bryant, David Bryant, Asa Bryant, Clement Bryant, Anna Phillips the wife of Abiel Phillips, Tirza Dickerman the wife of Manasseh Dickerman & Harriet Dunbar the wife of David Dunbar one Dollar each to be paid by my Executor in one Year after my decease—

        Item. I give and bequeath to my Son Oliver Bryant all my Estate both Real & personal consisting of Buildings & Land Stock of Cattle, Implements of Husbandry or Farming Tools Carpenter Tools & indoor Moveables & also all those things I have given the use of to my Wife during her natural Life to be his after her decease, to him his Heirs & assigns forever. And do hereby order & enjoin my Son Oliver to pay all my just debts funeral expences & charges of settling my Estate, & furthermore I order & enjoin my Son Oliver to pay to his Brothers & sisters the Legacies given to them in this Will & also to support his Mother in a comfortable manner by finding her a Sufficiency of Bread, Meat, Cloathing & Physick, & every necessary for her decent support & furthermore to find her a sufficiency of good Firewood cut suitable & drawn to her door, for keeping one fire for and during the Term of her natural Life or as long as she shall live –

                And lastly I do constitute & ordain my Son Oliver Bryant sole Executor of this my last Will & Testament. In Testimony Whereof I do hereunto set my hand & Seal the day & Year above written –

   Signed sealed published pronounced

  and declared by the said Job Bryant

as & for his last Will and Testament

in the presence of us, who at his request

& in his presence hereunto set our Names

as Witnesses to the same ~                                                                                                Job Bryant                         (seal)

                Silas Snow

                Ezekiel Meritt

                Daniel Howard junr.

 

Presented for probate on 7 March 1808 by Oliver Bryant, the Executor therein named, and proved by Ezekiel Meritt and Daniel Howard junr. Esqr., two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Oliver Bryant, the before named Executor.

        To the Hon Joshua Thomas Esqr. Judge of Probate of Wills &c for the County of Plymouth. Whereas my late Husband Job Bryant of Bridgwater, Gentleman deceased by his last Will & Testament bearing date the twenty ninth day of November Anno Domini, one Thousand eigh hundred & Seven made certain provisions in & by said Will for my maintenance & support This is to certify your Honour & all whom it may concern, that I am satisfied with said provisions & do accept of the same Feby 1st. 1808

Attest     Silas Snow                                                                                                            Mary Bryant

                Ezekiel Meritt

 

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 42, p. 263-265, from FHL microfilm #0550902.

 

 

Will of John Bryant of Plympton, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1728) *

Know all Men by these Presents that I John Bryant the Second of Plimton in ye County of Plymouth in New-England being under the Decays of Oldage yet by the Blessing of God of Sound memory & understanding Calling to mind the Mortality of my Body Knowing that its Appointed for all men to dy I do in the first Place Recommend my Soul to God that gave it and my Body to the Dust to be decently buried Hoping for a Glorious Resurrection: And touching Such Worldly Estate wherewith it hath pleasd God to bless me in this Life: I Give & Dispose of ye Same in the following manner. Imprimis I Give & Bequeath all my personal Estate that shall remain after my Decease & ye Decease of my Wife to be equally divided amongst my Three Daughters viz: to Ruth Churchell & Sarah Briggs & Joanna Churchell—Excepting my Wheel Wright Tools which I Give all of them to my Son George Bryant: And also Excepting my Books which shall be equally Divided amongst all my Children with Sons & Daughters Reserving a particular Book to my Son James Bryant Intituled the Book of Types which shall be towards his Share in sd Books And further my Mind & Will is that my Son George Bryant shall be sole Executor of this my last Will & Testament And I do hereby utterly Disallow & Disannull all former Wills Ratifying this & no other to be my last Will & Testament  In Witness whereof I have hereunto Set my hand & Seal this twenty Second Day of Novembr Anno Dom— One thousand Seven hundred & twenty eight.— Signed Sealed & Declared by the Abovesd John Bryant to be his last Will and Testament— In Presence of us~

        Memrandom It is to be Understood that it is my Mind & Will that my three Sons John Bryant & James Bryant & George Bryant shall have all my Wearing Apparrell.

Ebenezer Lobdell

William Bonney                                                                                                  The mark of  B  John Bryant            (seal)

Ignatius Cushing

 

Proved on 5 Apr. 1736 by Ebenezer Lobdell, William Bonney & Ignatius Cushing, the witnesses, administration of the Estate of John Bryant, late of Plimton, granted to his son George Bryant.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Mr. John Bryant, late of Plimton, was appraised by William Bonney, Ignatius Cushing and Ebenezer Lobdell on 16 Apr. 1736, not totaled, and no real estate, but he had £46.15.0 in Cattel. George Bryant, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 18 May 1736.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 7, pp. 178, 197, from FHL microfilm #0550513.

 

 

Will of Joseph Bryant of Marshfield, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1796) *

In the Name of God Amen—The third day of May one thousand seven Hundred ninety & Six, I Joseph Bryant of Marshfield in the County of Plymouth & Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Esqr. being weak in body, but of sound & perfect mind & memory, blessed be almighty God for the same do make this my last will & testament. and first of all, I give & recommend my Soul to God that gave it me, and my body to the dust, decently to be buried when dead, at the discretion of my Executor hereafter named, & as touching such worldly Goods & Estate as God hath blessed me with in this life, I give and dispose of the same, in the following manner

Imprimis—I Give unto my well beloved wife Eunice Bryant all the Houshold furniture, together with every other Species of property that she brought to me at marriage day, and also Four Hundred & twenty five Dollars in money, to be paid to her out of the monies that shall be due to me at my decease & in three months after my death, provided she accepts thereof instead of her right of dower or thirds in my Estate, both real & personal but if she shall not accept thereof instead of her said dower or thirds in my estate, then the above legacy to be void, but if accepted, to her, her heirs & assigns

Item—I Give unto my Daughter Sarah Bryant, her heirs & assigns, all the wearing apparell that was her mother’s, and all the houshold furniture, together with every other Species of property that her mother brought to me at marriage day, in the same order that they shall be found in at my decease, and also Six Hundred, Sixty & six Dollars in money

Item—I Give unto my Son Joseph Bryant, all my Estate, Real & Personal not herein before bequested & devised, wherever the same may be found, to him, his heirs & assigns. Further my will is, that all my just debts, Funeral charges, and the cost of settling my Estate be paid out of the Estate that I have given to my Son Joseph Bryant

Lastly—I do nominate, order & appoint my Friend William Macomber, sole Executor of this my last will & testament. In witness whereof I have hereunto Set my hand & Seal the day and year first written

Signed, Sealed, Published, Pronounced and                                                                  Joseph Bryant                   (seal)

declared by the said Joseph Bryant as & for

his last will & testament, in the presence

of us, who at his request & in his presence

hereunto Set our names, as witnesses to

the same Joseph Tilden

                                Jedediah Eames

                                John T. Eames

 

N.B. It is my request that Asa Waterman Esqr be Guardian to my son Josh & Daughter Sarah untill they are fourteen years old

                                                                                                                                                J.B.

 

Presented for probate on 6 June 1796 by William Macomber the Executor therein named, and proved by Joseph Tilden, Jedediah Eames & John T. Eames, the witnesses.

 

John Tilden, Daniel Lewis & Joseph Rogers, all of Marshfield, yeomen, were appointed to appraise the estate of Joseph Bryant, late of Marshfield, Esqr, on 6 June 1796. The inventory of the Estate of Joseph Bryant Esqr, late of Marshfield, dated 30 June 1796, totaled $5499.18, including his real estate valued at $2600, securities worth $1802.23, the legacy given to Sarah Bryant, consisting of one cow and houshold furniture, valued at $239.01, and $354 in live stock. William Macomber, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 5 Sept. 1796.

 

Daniel Lewis, Joseph Rogers & Luke Wadsworth, all of Marshfield, yeomen, were appointed to set off and assign to Eunice Bryant, widow of Joseph Bryant, late of Marshfield, Esqr, deceased, her thirds or right of dower in the estate of her deceased husband on 4 Oct. 1796.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 35, pp. 520-521, 550-551, from FHL microfilm #0550718, and Vol. 36, p. 5-6, from FHL microfilm #0550719.

 

 

Will of Nathaniel Bryant of Plympton, Plymouth County, Massachusetts Bay (1786) *

In the name of God Amen—I Nathaniel Bryant of Plymton in the County of Plymouth, yeoman, being in perfect health of body & in & of perfect mind & memory, thanks be given unto God, calling to mind the mortality of my body, knowing it is appointed for all men once to die, do make & ordain this my Last will & testament, that is to say, principally & first of all, I recommend my soul into the hands of almighty God that gave it, & my body I recommend to the earth, to be buried in a decent christian manner at the discretion of my Executor after named, nothing doubting but at the general resurrection, I shall recieve the same again by the power of God, and as touching such worldly estate, which it hath pleased God to bless me with in the Life, do give, demise & dispose of the same in the following Form & manner

        Firstly—after my funeral charges & just debts are paid, I give & bequeath to my beloved son Benjamin Bryant the whole of my estate both real and personal, of what kind or nature soever, & wheresoever it may be found to him the said Benjamin, his heirs & assigns forever, upon consideration, that the said Benjamin will honorably support my widow during her widowhood & pay the following Legacies, vizt—to pay my beloved son Nathaniel Bryant Fifteen pounds, which sum I give & bequeath to my said son Nathl—his heirs & assigns forever & to pay to my beloved daughter Zeruiah Holmes wife of Ephraim Holmes ten pounds, which sum I give & bequeath to my said daughter her heirs & assigns forever, and to pay to the three children of my son Ezekiel Bryant deceased ten pounds, sum I give & bequeath to my three grand children to be equally divided betwixt them, to them their heirs & assigns Forever, and I do constitute and appoint my said son Benjamin sole Executor of this my Last will & testament, and I do hereby disallow all other wills, Legacies or bequeaths or Executors by me before named, willed or bequeathed, Ratifying & confirming this & no other to be my Last will & testament – In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand & seal, the sixth day of January Anno Domini one thousand, seven hundred & Eighty six

Signed, Sealed & pronounced to be                                                                                 Nathaniel Bryant             (seal)

my Last will & testament in pre-

sence of

                Jona Holmes junr

                Jacob Bryant

                Jedh Holmes

 

Presented for probate on 6 Jan. 1794 by Benjamin Bryant, the Executor therein named, and proved by Jacob Bryant and Jedediah Holmes, two of the witnesses. No inventory was recorded for his estate.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 33, p. 522-523, from FHL microfilm #0550717.

 

 

Will of Peleg Bryant of Scituate, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1771) *

                                                In the Name of GOD, Amen.—

This 27th day of September A.D. 1771. I Peleg Bryant of Scituate in the county of Plymouth, being in a declining state as to my health, but of a sound and disposing mind and memory, do make and ordain this my last will and testament, in manner and form following. First of all I recomend my soul into the hand of God that gave it, and my body to decent burial at the discretion of my executor hereafter-named. and as touching what estate I am blessed with, I dispose of the same as follows.

First, It is my mind and will that my just debts, funeral charges, legacies, and the expence of settling my estate be paid by my executor hereafter named out of that part of my estate herein after given to my son Edward Bryant. –

Item. I give and bequeath to my beloved wife Mary the use & improvement of my whole estate both real & personal excepting my desk and so much out of my son Edward’s part herein given him as shall be sufficient to pay my just debts, legacies, funeral charges, & cost of settling my estate during her natural life. ~

Item. I give and bequeath unto my son Peleg Bryant twelve acres of land more or less, lying near mr. Ephraim Otis’s with the buildings thereon,— also eighteen acres of land lying near mr. Constant Clap’s be the same more or less, also five acres of woodland lying in Hanover on the country road, bounded begining at the southwesterly corner of Joshua Simmons’s field by said road, and then runing by said road so far as a parallel line with said Simmons’s shall make up five acres, to a stake & stone by Ezra Briggs’s pasture fence. I also give him my desk. –

Item. I give & bequeath unto my daughter Mary Ewell Bryant, six shillings to be paid her by my executor hereafter named in one year after my decease.

Item. I give & bequeath unto my daughter Ann Lincoln, six shillings, to be paid her by my executor hereafter named in one year after my decease. together with the household goods she has already received. –

Item. I give & bequeath unto my daughter Rhoda Bryant, six shillings, to be paid her in one year after my decease by my executor hereafter named. –

Item. I give & bequeath unto my daughter Martha Bryant after her mother’s decease my personal estate viz cattle, horses, sheep, swine, & all my household furniture not before in this my will given away. –

Item. I give & bequeath unto my son Edward Bryant all the rest & residue of my estate both real & personal wheresoever the same is or may be found, provided always, and upon the conditions following, viz, that he shall well & truly support & maintain after his mother’s decease his two sisters – Mary Ewell Bryant, Rhoda Bryant, handsomely, in sickness & in health, during each of their natural lives. And also that he shall choose my trusty friend David Stockbridge esqr. to be his guardian to take care of him & his estate during the whole time of his minority, till he arives to the age of twenty one years, my just debts, funeral charges, legacies herein given away, and the cost of settling my estate to be paid out of what I have herein given him by my executor hereafter-named.

Lastly. I do hereby nominate, constitute & appoint my trusty friend David Stockbridge esqr. to be sole executor of this my last will & testament.

Signed, sealed, published, pronounced &

declared by the sd. Peleg Bryant to be his                                                                       Peleg Bryant                                     (seal)

Last will & testament in presence of

John Jacobs

Solomon Sylvester

Gideon Stetson.

 

Presented for probate on 3 Feb. 1772 by David Stockbridge, of Hanover, esqr., the executor therein named, and proved by John Jacobs and Solomon Sylvester, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to David Stockbridge, the Executor.

 

The Inventory of the estate of Peleg Bryant, late of Scituate, gentleman, was appraised on 11th & 12th Feb. 1772 by Nathaniel Clap, Joseph Cushing, and Joseph Tolman, and totaled £1085.3.4, including his homestead of about 45 acres with the dwelling-house, barn, and other buildings valued at £403.6.8, and other parcels of land. David Stockbridge esq., the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 2 Mar. 1772.

 

Whereas Peleg Bryant late of Scituate in the county of Plymouth gentleman deced, in his last will & testament gave to his son Edward Bryant a minor, certain lands, &cs, to be holden by the said Edward upon certain conditions in said will mentioned, one whereof was that the said Edward should chuse the subscriber to be his guardian to take care of him and his estate, during his minority, and the said Edward having aplied to me to accept said trust, but I am unwilling to accept, I therefore do hereby inform your honor that I do refuse to accept said trust. As Witness my hand August 3d A.D. 1772.

                                                                                                                                                David Stockbridge

Plymouth Ss. July 14, 1772. Edward Bryant a minor above fourteen years of age, son of Peleg Bryant Late of Scituate in the county of Plymouth gentleman deced, having made choice of Nathaniel Clap of said Scituate esquire, to be his guardian, he was accepted to that trust and apointed guardian to said minor accordingly, by the judge of probate. And the said Nathaniel gave bond with sureties as the Law directs, for the faithful discharge of his trust.

Wm. Cushing Esqr. Surety £500. –

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 21, pp. 76-77, 91, 190, from FHL microfilm #0550712.

 

 

Will of Philander Bryant of Middleborough, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1844) *

I Philander Bryant of Middleborough, in the County of Plymouth and Commonwealth of Massachusetts, being weak in body, but of sound mind and memory; do make and publish this my last Will and Testament in manner and form as follows, Viz. –

I give and bequeath to my brother Levi Bryant four hundred dollars the same to be kept in the care of Ira Bryant until the said Levi Bryant shall arrive to the age of twenty one years.

I give and bequeath to my brother Henry E. Bryant, one hundred dollars the same to be kept in the hands of Ira Bryant until the said Henry E. Bryant, shall arrive to the age of twenty one years.

I give and bequeath to my brother William L. Bryant one hundred dollars, the same to be kept in the hands of Ira Bryant until the said William L. Bryant shall arrive to the age of twenty one years.

I give and bequeath to my brother Ira Bryant my Covered Waggon – also my cow and Hog. I give and bequeath to my father Ezekiel Bryant – all my Waring Apparel. I give and bequeath to my well-beloved Wife Jane Bryant all the remainder of my estate, both real and personal, for her the said Jane, to use or spend thereof for her comfort during her natural life: and if it should so happen that a part of said property should remain at the decease of my said Wife: then in that Case: it is my Will, that the remainder, if any, should be equally divided between all my brothers, their heirs and assigns forever. And it is my Will that if there should be any loss by my poor debts – it is my Will; that my brothers shall discount from the sums which I have given to them, each one his proportion according to what I have given them – so that the loss will not in any way come on my Wife. And I do appoint Ira Bryant sole Executor to this my last Will and Testament revoking all former Wills by me made. In Testimony whereof, I the said Philander Bryant have hereunto set my hand and seal this twenty sixth day of September – eighteen hundred and forty four.

Signed, sealed, published and declared

by the said Philander Bryant to                                                                                        Philander Bryant.

be his last Will and Testament                                                                                                                                                         (seal)

in the presence of us who have subscribed

our names as witnesses to the same, in

the presence of the Testator.

                                                Samuel Thompson

                                                Priscilla Cox

                                                Jephthah Leach

 

Presented for probate on the first Monday of December, 1844, by Ira Bryant, the Executor therein named, and proved by Samuel Thompson and Jephthah Leach, two of the witnesses. Letters Testamentary were granted to Ira Bryant, the Executor therein named.

 

Samuel Thompson and Jonathan Cobb, both of Middleborough, were sureties on the bond of Ira Bryant as Executor of the last Will and Testament of Philander Bryant, late of Middleborough, Yeoman, on 2 Dec. 1844.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Philander Bryant, late of Middleborough, Yeoman, was appraised by Samuel Thompson, Arad Bryant, and George Cox on 19 Dec. 1844, and totaled $1830.30, including his real estate valued at $1200. Ira Bryant, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on the first Tuesday of April, 1845.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 86, p. 585-587, from FHL microfilm #0555637, Vol. 2H, p. 22, and Vol. 87, p. 92.

 

 

Will of Samuel Bryant of Plympton, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1744) *

In the Name of God Amen I Samuel Bryant of Plimton in the County of Plimouth in the Province of the Massachusets Bay in New England Yeoman I Being By the Blessing of God at this Time in Parfect mind and memory yet Not with Standing Calling To mind the Mortallity of my Body and that it is appointed for all men once to Dye and after that the Judgement and Being Desirous To Despose of what Estate it hath plessed God To Bless me With in the Life Do By these Presents make and ordain this my Last Will and Testement and Despose of the Same in the following mannor and form

Item I Give and Bequeath unto My Eldest Son Samuel Bryant his Heirs and assigns forever the one Half of my Land Lying upon the Easterlye Side of the Contrey Roade that Leads from John Bigses unto Josiah Watermans and also ajoyning unto Jones River Pond Which I Judge To Be His Proportion of my Estate with What I have already Given unto Him by Deed – – –

Item I Give and Bequeath unto my Son Nathanel Bryant his Heirs and assigns forever all my Homsted Whereon I now I Dwell Together with all my Housing and Fencesing and orchard thereon Together With one half of my Land Lying upon the Easterly Side of the Contrey Road that Leads from John Briggses unto Josiah Watermans and also ajoyning to Jones river Pond as abovesaid  I also Give unto my Son Nathaniel Bryant and his heirs and assigns forever all that my Lot of Fresh meadow Lyeing and Being in Jonesriver Meadow and also all that my Lot of Seder Swamp Called Rings Swamp Being and Lyeing in the Township of Hallefax – – – –

I Give and Bequeath unto my Said son Nathanel one fether Bed and Bolster and Oxen and Plows and Cart and all My Tooles for Husbandrey and also my Gun which I Commonly use and also my Hors. Item – I Give and Bequeath unto my Two Sons Samuel Bryant and Nathaniel Bryant all my Wairing apperail To be Equally To Be Divided Betwen them: Item: I Give and Bequeath unto my four viz – Joanah Waterman Abigail Phenney Elizaboth Watermen and Lydia Samson To them and there Heirs and assigns forever all my Parsonal Estate To Be Equally Divided Betwen them my Said Daughters and Lastly I Do By these presents appoint ordain and Constetute my Loveing Son Nathaniel Bryant To Be my Executor of this my Last Will and Testement thus Trusting that this my Last Will and Testement and Everey article Contained herein Will Be Exactly Justified according to the true Meaning thereof and Finelay Recomending My Soule To God that Gave it and my Body unto the Dust To Be Decently Buread at the Descretion of my Executor In Testimoney of this Being My Last Will and Testement I Have Signed this Twenty fifth Day of May 1744—

Signed Sealed and Decelaird By the abovesaid

Samuel Bryant To Be his Last Will and Testement

in the Presents of us—

Josiah Perkins                                                                                                                       Samuel Bryant                  (seal)

Deborah Perkens

Nathan Parkens

 

Probated on 2 Apr. 1750, presented by the executor, and proved by Josiah Perkins, Deborah Perkins and Nathan Perkins.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 12, p. 309-311, from FHL microfilm #0551539.

 

 

Will of Samuel Bryant of Plympton, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1771) *

                                                In the Name of GOD, Amen.

The twentyfifth day of February one thousand, seven hundred and seventy one, I Samuel Bryant of Plimton in the county of Plymouth in New-England being weak of body although through divine goodness of a sound mind and memory, and calling to mind the mortality of my body, knowing that it is appointed for all men once to dye, do make and ordain this my last will and testament. and principally and first of all, I recomend my soul into the hands of GOD that gave it, trusting thro’ the merits of Christ to receive the free and full pardon of all my sins, and to inherit glory. and my body I recomend to the earth to be decently buried at the discretion of my executor hereafter-named, trusting that I shall receive the same again by the mighty power of GOD at the general resurrection, and as touching such worldly estate as it hath pleased GOD to bless me with in this life, I give and dispose of in the following manner. ~

        Item. I give and bequeath unto my well-beloved wife Tabitha the use and improvement of all my real estate so long as she remain my widow, unless my son Joshua Bryant shall see cause to improve said estate and return yearly to my said wife all the necessaries of life that she shall have ocasion for. I also give unto my said wife the use and improvement of one half of all my movable estate during her natural life. ~

        Item. I give and bequeath unto my son Joshua Bryant, his heirs and assigns forever, all my real estate lying in Plimton & Hallifax.

        Item. I give and bequeath unto my children all my moveable estate, to be equally divided among them all except my wearing aparel which I give unto my son Samuel Bryant, viz, Lusannah Cook, Lois Briggs, Abigail Briggs, and the children of my son Silvanus Bryant, which my will is that they shall receive as much as one of my surviving children, Tabitha Bennet, Joseph Bryant, Samuel Bryant, Joanna Raymond, Lydia Fuller, Joshua Bryant, and Solomon Bryant. –

        Lastly. I do constitute and apoint my son Joshua Bryant sole executor on this my last will and testament, and my will is that my said son shall before any division is made shall pay all my just debts and funeral charges. –

                And do by these presents renounce all wills before by me made, and ratify and confirm this to be my last will & testament. – In testimony whereof I have signed and sealed the day and year above-written. –

Signed, sealed, & pronounced and ~                                                                               Samuel Bryant                  (seal)

delivered by the said Samuel Briant

to be his last will & testament in

the presence of us.

Josiah Perkins,  John Phinney,

        Nathaniel Bryant junr.

 

Presented for probate on 6 June 1774 by Joshua Bryant, the Executor therein named, and proved by Josiah Perkins and Nathaniel Bryant junr., two of the witnesses. Letter of Administration were granted to Joshua Bryant, the Executor.

 

The Inventory of the estate of Dean. Samuel Bryant, late of Plimton, was appraised on 17 June 1774 by Seth Cushing, John Bryant, and Nathl. Bryant, and totaled £161.17.1, including his real estate, valued at £123.6.8. Joshua Bryant, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 27 June 1774.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 21, p. 374-375, from FHL microfilm #0550712.

 

 

Will of Seth Bryant of Marshfield, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1771) *

                                                In the Name of GOD, Amen,

This twenty fifth day of November, A.D. 1771. I Seth Bryant of Marshfield in the county of Plymouth, being of sound mind, do make this my last will & testament in manner & form following, after my just debts and funeral charges, being paid off by my executor hereafter-named out of my personal estate, I give and dispose of the remainder as follows, viz,

Imprimis, I give and bequeath unto my wife Elizabeth, one cow, with the privilege of its being kept winter and summer on the farm where I now dwell, and fire-wood at the door to be cut off the farm aforesaid, and two large silver spoons, and the improvement of one half of my dwelling-house during her life, and one half of my household goods, and one half of the provisions in my house, and one half of the swine on my farm, and an horse whenever she wants for her own use, and six bushels of indian-corn, and three bushels of rye, and two bushels of wheat, and four pounds L,m, in money yearly, during her life to be paid as hereafter expressed; provided that she take up with the same instead of her right of dower in my estate. ~

  Item, I give and bequeath unto my daughter Ruth Dingley that furnichure which she hath already received, and a silver-spoon, and sixty pounds L.m. to be paid as hereafter expressed. –

Item, I give and bequeath unto my daughter Vashty Bryant, the other half of my household goods, two silver spoons, and my silver-cann, my gold sleeve-buttons, & my silver shoe-buckles, and a cow, with the privilege of keeping her summer and winter upon the farm where I now live, so long as she lives unmarried, and the easterly chamber in my dwelling house, with privilege to pass & repass to said chamber, cellar & well so long as she remains unmarried, and sixty pounds L,m. to be paid as hereafter expressed. ~

 Item, I give and bequeath unto my two sons Nathaniel Bryant & Charles Bryant, all the land both upland & meadow with the buildings thereon, that I bought of Samuel Clift, except about two acres before disposed off to them their heirs & assigns forever.

 Item, I give and bequeath unto my son Seth Bryant all the lands that he has already received, as pr deed.

 Item, I give and bequeath unto my son Joseph Bryant, all the land that he hath already received as pr deed. –

  Item, I give and bequeath unto my four sons Nathaniel Bryant, Seth Bryant, Joseph Bryant & Charles Bryant, all the rest & residue of my estate both real & personal, not before disposed off, my just debts & legacies beforementioned being first paid by my executor hereafter-named in one year after my decease; furthermore my will & meaning is, that my four sons above-named, shall in equal proportion pay the aforesaid yearly legacy to my wife, in case that she accepts of the same instead of her right of dower in my estate. ~

  Lastly, I do hereby nominate, constitute, and appoint my son Seth Bryant sole executor of this my last will & testament.  In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal the day & year before written. ~

Signed, sealed, published & declared by the                                                                  Seth Bryant                                        (seal)

sd. Seth Bryant to be his last will & testament

in presence of       William Clift

                                Joseph Clift

                                Lemuel Mayhew

 

Presented for probate on 7 Aug. 1772 by Seth Bryant, the Executor therein named, and proved by Joseph Clift and William Clift, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Seth Bryant, the executor.

 

The inventory of the estate of Mr. Seth Bryant, late of Marshfield, was appraised on 12 Aug. 1772 by Abijah White, John Tilden and John White, and totaled £1059.4.7, including his real estate valued at £780. Seth Bryant, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 10 Aug. 1772.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 21, p. 188-189, from FHL microfilm #0550712.

 

 

Will of Seth Bryant of Middleborough, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1822) *

   In the name of God amen. Know all men by these presents that I Seth Bryant of Middleborough in the County of Plymouth & Commonwealth of Massachusetts, being weak in body, yet of a sound & disposing Memory (blessed be God for the same) yet knowing the mortality of my body, that it is appointed for all men to die, do make & ordain this to be my last will and Testament, to remain firm & inviolable.

  Imprimis I give and bequeath to my beloved wife Lucy Bryant the use & improvement of all my Estate both real & personal so long as she shall remain my widow, after the following exceptions are attended to.

  1st She my said wife shall support & bring up my two daughters to the age of eighteen years.

  2d She my said wife shall find sufficient support for my Mother during her natural life, so far as her dower in my Father’s farm is insufficient for her support & she my said wife shall remain my widow.

  3d I except my Carpenters & joiners tools

  4th My will is that my just debts & Funeral charges and cost of the settlement of my Estate shall be paid out of my said personal Estate.

  Imprimis I give and bequeath to my son Philander Bryant and to his heirs & assigns forever, one undivided third part of all my Estate, both real & personal, to come into the possession when the possession of my widow shall cease, he paying one hundred dollars to my Daughter Marcia Bryant in one year after he shall come into the possession of said Legacy.

  Imprimis I give and bequeath to my son Caleb Bryant and to his heirs & assigns forever one undivided third part of all my Estate both real & personal, to come into the possession of the same when the possession of my widow shall cease by his paying one hundred Dollars to my Daughter Lucy Bryant in one year after he shall come into possession of said Legacy. – further I give & bequeath to my said son Caleb all my Carpenters & joiners tools,

  Imprimis I give and bequeath to my Daughter Marcia Bryant to her heirs & assigns forever one hundred Dollars, to be paid to her by my son Philander Bryant, within one year after he shall come into the possession of his Legacy from his Father’s will.

  Imprimis I give and bequeath to my Daughter Lucy Bryant one hundred Dollars to be paid her by my son Caleb Bryant in one year after he shall come into possession of the Legacy from his Father’s will.

  Imprimis I give and bequeath to my son Hilliard Bryant one undivided third part of my Estate both real & personal after the improvement of my sd widow shall cease.

  Imprimis My will is that my Friend Thomas Bennet shall be the sole Executor of this my last will & Testament – Thus hoping that this my last will & Testament will be safely kept & executed according to the Intent & meaning thereof I therefore commend my soul to God who gave it, & my body to the dust in a decent burial.

                In Testimony whereof I the said Seth Bryant have hereunto set my hand & seal this twenty ninth day of August eighteen hundred & twenty two.

Signed, Sealed, pronounced &

declared to be his last will &

Testament in presence of                                                                                                   Seth Bryant                                        (seal)

   Southworth Ellis

   Southworth Ellis Jr

   Alfred Soule

 

Presented for probate on 21 Oct. 1822 by Thomas Bennet Esquire, the Executor therein named, and proved by Southworth Ellis and Southworth Ellis Jr, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Thomas Bennet, the before named Executor.

 

Joseph Clarke 2d & Joshua Eddy junr, Esqrs, and Francis Atwood, Yeoman, all of Middleborough, were appointed to appraise the estate of Seth Bryant, late of Middleborough, yeoman, on 21 Oct. 1822. The Inventory, dated 28 Oct. 1822, totaled $2558.87, including his home farm and buildings valued at $1650. Thomas Bennet Esqr., the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 5 Nov. 1822.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 56, pp. 162-165, 180, from FHL microfilm #0550909.

 

 

Will of Thomas Bryant of Scituate, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1748) *

In the Name of God Amen The 15th. day of December A.D. 1748. I Thomas Bryant of Scituate in the County of Plimouth in New England Esqr being Sick and weak but of Sound Mind do make this my last will and Testament First I recomend my Soul to god that gave it and my body to the Earth to Decent Burial at the Discretion of my Execrs. hereafter named & Touching such worldly Estate as God hath blessed me with in this life I Give Devise and Dispose of the Same in manner following that is to Say. ~

Imps. I Give unto my beloved wife Mary Bryant all those Articles & things which by Covenant with her before Marriage I was Obliged to Do and perform

Item I Give unto my son Benjamin Bryant his heirs & assigns for Ever The Land with the buildings theron where sd. Benjamin now dwells on both Sides of the Road being about One hundred Acres More or less Also about four Acres of Salt Marsh which I bought of Jeremiah Hatch and about Eight Acre of upland which I bought of sd. Hatch lying to the Westward of Israel Nickolss. land and so to Extend down to sd. Four Acres, also my Cedar Swamp Near Mr. Symmss, also all my land at a place Called Simonss Wigwam hill Saveing about twenty four acres on the Westerly Side thereof hereafter in this my Will Given to my son Thomas Provided and upon this Condition that he said Benjamin or his heirs Shall upon Demand Confirm my son Thomas by Comon recoverey or any other Legal Assurance In the Land which was Given to me by my Father in Free tail where I now Dwell —

Item, I Give unto my Son Seth Bryant Two Acres & one quarter of Salt Marsh which was Theo Witherels lying in Marshfield be it more or less also all my land lying betwixt Wantons land and Dea Kings land partly in Hanover & partly in Abbington being One hundred & fifty Acres more or less which was formerly John Woodworths, To have & to hold said lands To him said Seth his heirs and Assigns forever also I Give to sd. Seth the least bond in which he is indebted to me & the money or bills due thereby —

Item I Give to my son Thomas Bryant his heirs & Assigns forever the Farm wheron I now dwell both upland Swampland and Salt Marsh being about One Hundred Acres more or less lying on both sides of the Roade leading up to the Meeting house, and Joyning partly on the Personage land, also twenty four Acres of land at sd. Simons’. Wigwam hill being the Westerly part of my said land there to be taken as large as the Ancient Measure thereof, also One half of my Salt marsh which was Witherels and One half of the upland Joyning therto betwixt sd. Marsh & sd. Nicholss. land the whole being about Nine Acres, also I Give to him sd. Thomas his heirs and Assigns my Four peices of land lying Near Amy Dwellys being in the whole near thirty Acres, also my Pew which Joyns to Dea Cushings in the South Meeting house in Scituate, he paying to my Son Lemuel Eight hundred pounds old tenour Bills at my Decease—

Item. I Give unto my son Peleg Bryant the land where he now Dwells being about Fourty Acres On the East Side of the Roade and about an Acre and an half Joyning to Isaac Lincolns land & ye. roade and fourty Acres more or less at or Near Wild Cat so Called and about fifteen Acres which I bought of Thomas Clap Esqr, also about twelve Acres of land at Hanover Joyning to David Curtiss. land, also about four Acres and a quarter of Meadow land Joyning to Brookss. Island so Called, also the Other half of my Marsh wch was Witherels & half the upland betwixt it & Nicholss. land, also my Pew Joyning to Jonah Stutsons & John Turners in the Southerly Meeting house in Scituate to have & to hold sd. lands & Pew to him sd. Peleg his heirs & Assigns forever—

Item. I Give to my son Lemuel Bryant Five & twenty hundred pounds Old tenour to be paid at my decease by my Execrs. the Aforesd. Eight hundred pounds to be reckoned as part thereof

Item I Give to my daughter Mary Turner Two Thousand pounds old Tenour Bills within Six months after my Decease by my Execrs

Lastly All the rest of my Estate I Give to my four sons Benjamin Seth Thomas & Peleg & their heirs & Assigns forever & do hereby Order them to pay my Just debts & the Legacies herein given Eight Hundred pounds which Thomas is to pay full Short of paying my sd. Debts & Legacies I Order them to pay Equally Out of what I have herein given them And Do hereby Appoint them said Benjamin Seth Thomas & Peleg Execrs. of this my Will In Witness Whereof I have hereunto Set my hand & Seal the day & year aforesaid

Signed Sealed published & Declared

By said Thomas Bryant to be his last

Will & Testament, In presence of                                                                                    Thomas Briant                  (seal)

                Elisha Randall

                Prince Rose

                Abigail Barstow

 

Probated on 23 Dec. 1748, and proved by Elisha Randall, Prince Rose and Abigail Barstow, the witnesses. Administration on the estate of Thomas Bryant Esqr., late of Scituate, were granted to Benjamin Bryant, Seth Bryant, Thomas Bryant, and Peleg Bryant, the Executors.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 11, p. 221-222, from FHL microfilm #0551537.

 

 

Will of Timothy Bryant of Hingham, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1847) *

        I Timothy Bryant of Hingham, in the County of Plymouth, Gentleman, do make and declare this instrument to be my last Will and testament

                I dispose of all the Estate of which I shall die seized and possessed as follows:

        First. I order my Executer herein after named to sell and dispose of all my Real Estate by public auction and all my personal and mixed Estate by public or private sale within one year after my decease; and I hereby fully authorize and empower him to make and Execute all proper deeds and bills of sale of the same as fully as if he were lisensed to make sale thereof by order of any court. It is my express order that the furniture of the Old Colony House should be sold separately from the said House and Real Estate connected therewith –

        Second – From the proceeds of said sales I order my Executor to pay all my just debts and charges.

        Third. I give and bequeath to my mother Abigail Bryant the sum of One thousand dollars to be paid to her out of said proceeds by my Executors, said sum to be at my mother’s free disposal.

        Fourth I give to my house-keeper Mrs Susanna W. Smith the sum of One hundred dollars in addition to any just claim she may have for services to be paid from said proceeds.

        Fifth. I order my said Executor to invest the residue of my Estate after the payment of my said debts and legacies in some safe securities or stock and to hold the same in trust and the net income thereof to pay over from time to time to my mother for her use during the term of her natural life ~

        Sixth – After the decease of my mother I give and bequeath all my Estate remaining in the Executer’s hands or invested in trust, or however situated (saving and excepting said debts and legacies) to my six brothers Ziba B. Danville, Theron, George W. Charles and Edwin their respective heirs and assigns forever, in equal parts to each.

        Seventhly – I hereby appoint my friend Luther J. Barnes to be Sole Executor of this my last Will and testament.

                In witness whereof I the said Timothy Bryant have hereunto set my hand and seal this thirtieth day of September in the Year Eighteen hundred and forty seven.

                                                                                                                                                Timothy Bryant                                (seal)

        Signed, Sealed published and declared by the above named Timothy Bryant to be his last Will and Testament in our presence and we at his request, in his presence and in the presence of each other have hereto subscribed our names as witnesses

                                                                                                                                                Ned Cushing

                                                                                                                                                Isaac Barnes

                                                                                                                                                Soloman Lincoln

 

Presented for probate on the second Monday of Apr. 1848 by Luther J. Barnes, the Executor therein named, and proved by Ned Cushing and Solomon Lincoln, two of the witnesses whose names are subscribed thereto. Letters Testamentary were granted to Luther J. Barnes, the Executor therein named.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Timothy Bryant, Gentleman, late of Hingham, not dated, was appraised by Ned Cushing, Isaac Little and N. Ripley Jr., his real estate valued at $8500, and his personal estate totaled $3597.10, including a $400 share in the B&H Steam Boat Co., and six carriages. Luther J. Barnes, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on the second Monday of Apr. 1848, and his application for sale of the personal estate of the deceased was approved on 10 Apr. 1848.

 

Luther J. Barnes, of Hingham, was appointed Executor of the last Will and Testament of Timothy Bryant, late of Hingham, Gentleman, on 10 Apr. 1848, with Ned Cushing and Isaac Barnes, both of Hingham, as sureties.

Ned Cushing and Isaac Little, of Hingham, and Nehemiah Ripley Jr. of Hull were appointed to appraise the estate of Timothy Bryant on 18 Feb. 1848.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 90, p. 82-86, from FHL microfilm #0555639, and Vol. 2H, p. 149.

 

 

Will of John Buck of Scituate, County of Plymouth, Province of Massachusetts Bay (1697) *

In the name of God Amen The fourth Day of September in ye year of our Lord 1697: I John Buck of Situate in ye County of New Plimouth in New England being weak in Body yet of perfect Memory Considering ye uncertainty of Mans life and that all men living must die or be changed and then no more Enjoy this Transitory life, minding to put in order such Estate as God hath Blessed me withall I do therefore first of all Renounce Revoak & make void all & Every former & other Will & Wils by me made & Declared by word or Writing And that this onely to be taken for my last Will and Testament and none other for & Concerning all my Goods Chattels & Debts. & first I Commend my Soul to Almighty God by whome of his meere Grace I must to be saved and Received into Eternall Rest through ye Death of my Saviour & Redeemer Jesus Christ. Item I will that all Such Debts as I owe to any person or persons whatsoever by Law or Covenant be fully and truly Satisfied & paid.

Item I Will that all my Housing & lands lying in Situate be after my decease Sold and Equally divided Betwixt my Daughters.

Item I Give and Bequeath one Cow to my Daughter Chandler ~ ~ ~

Item I Give and Bequeath to her Children Each of them one Sheep ~ ~

Item I Give and Bequeath to Isaac Randalls two Children to Each of them Six Shillings.

Item I Give and Bequeath to John Ganets Children twelve shillings a peece

Item I Give and bequeath to all my Grand Children living at Yarmouth and Sandwich one shilling to Each of them.

And I Do hereby make ordaine & Declare my Son in Law Isaac Randall to be my full whole & onely Executor of this my Last Will and Testament—In Witness of this my Last Will and Testament I have hereunto set my hand and Seal the day and year above written.

Signed Sealed and declared                                                                                                               The  J  mark of

in presence of us                                                                                                                  John Buck  &  a    (seal)

The W mark of

William Curtice Senr

John Curtis

James Torrey

 

William Curtice James Torrey & John Curtice the Witnesses here named all of them appeared before William Bradford Esqr Judge of probate on ye 27th day of September 1697 & made oath in Plimouth that they were present and saw and heard John Buck the Testator above named Sign Seal & Declare ye above Written Instrument to be his last Will & Testament & that to ye best of their Judgment he was of sound disposing mind & memory when he did ye same

                                                                                                                Attest Saml Sprague Register

 

Isaac Randall, the Executor, was granted letters of administration on 27 Sept. 1697.

 

An Inventory of ye Estate of John Buck Late of Situate Deceased taken by us this 21th day of September 1697 whose names are Subscribed. [Not totaled]

Elisha Turner

James Torrey

 

Memorand~ ye 27th of September 1697

Before Wm Bradford Esqr judge &c Isaac Randall Executor of ye last Will & Testament of ye above named John Buck deceased made oath in Plimouth that ye above Written is a true Inventory of ye Goods Chattels Rights & Credits of ye sd Deceased so far as he yet knoweth & that when more Shall come to his knowledge he will cause it to be Added

                                                                                                                Attest Saml Sprague Register

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 1, p. 276-277.

 

 

Will of John Bumpas of Wareham, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1763) *

In the name of God Amen, I John Bump of Warham in the County of Plimouth being of Disposeing mind and Memory (blessed be God therefor) do make and Ordain this my last will and Testament, As to my worldly Estate I dispose of it in the following manner.

Imps I Give to my wife Rebecca (as her thirds, Eight bushels of Indian Corn and four of Rye yearly, One barrel of meet some beefe & some porke as she shall choose, yearly, Seven pounds of Sheeps wool & ten of flax yearly, the Easterly End of my dwelling house, and it to be repaired so as to be fit and convenient for her, One bed and furniture, and all the household stuff dureing her life, also fire wood cut & drawed to the door fit for the fire, a privilige of the Apples, and Cherries, and her Garden, for her own use, I also Give her the Choice of One of my Cows and to be kept for her Winter & Summer.

Item. I Give to my son Zephaniah Bump and to his heirs and Assigns forever all my homestead viz, my Dwelling house and barn, upland & Fresh meadow, also my peice of Salt Meadow at the broad Marsh, also a peice of land and meadow at Agawam, all my land and Swamp in Plimton, as also my Oxen & Cart, and all my farming tools, and all my wearing Cloathes, also my will is that my son Zephaniah Shall provide for my wife as abovementioned all those Articles and repair said house, but if he should fail in his performance my will is that my wife Shall then have the improvement of One half of my homestead both land and meadow for her use, he is also to pay the legacys when payable, also all my Just debts and to provide for my wife in Sickness & health –

Item. I Give to my Daughter Elizabeth Bump and to her heirs and assigns forever my peice of land & meadow In Woukn’uo neck, also my Mare, and my remaining Stock both of Cattle & Sheep, and also my household Stuff after her mothers decease, also liberty of liveing in my house with her mother, and liberty of getting apples & Cherrys out of my Orchard dureing her living a Single life.

Item. I Give to my three Grand Children heirs of my daughter Hannah Bump deceasd viz, Lucy, Jonathan & Deliverance five Shillings each when they Shall arrive to full age.

Finally. I do appoint and Ordain my son Zephaniah Bump to be the Sole Executor of this my last will & Testament and I do hereby disanull and revoke all & every other will made by me and Con firm this to be my last, In Confirm this to be my last, In Confirmation hereof I do hereunto set my hand and Seal this 24th. day of June Anno Domini 1763.

Signed Sealed published & Declared

by me the said John Bump as my

Last will & Testament, In the                                                                                           John Bumpas                     (seal)

presence of these witnesses

                Samuel Bumpas

                Rhoda Perry

                Rowland Thacher

 

Presented for probate on 5 Nov. 1764 by Zephaniah Bumpas, the Executor therein named, and proved by Samuel Bumpas and Rowland Thacher, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Zephaniah Bumpas, the Executor.

 

The Inventory of the Goods Chattles & Lands of John Bumpus, late of Wareham, was appraised on 29 Apr. 1765 by Thomas Whetten, Salathiel Bumpus, and Benjamin Briggs, and totaled £478.1.9, including his homestead, lands, meadow, and buildings valued at £248, and other parcels of land. Zephaniah Bumpus, the administrator, gave his oath to the inventory on 24 Oct. 1765.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 19, pp. 135-136, 333-334, from FHL microfilm #0550711.

 

 

Will of John Burrel of Abington, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1754) *

  In the name of God Amen: this twenty Eighth day of January AD 1754, I John Burrel of Abington in the County of Plimouth and provintes of the Massachusets bay in New England Yeoman; being Apprehensive of My approaching change, but of perfict Minde & Memory, thanks be Given to God there for, calling to mind the mortality of my body and Knowing that it is Appointed for all men Once to dye do make and Ordain this my Last will and testament; that is to say: principally and first of all, I Give Recommend my Soul into the hands of God that Gave it, and my Body I Recommend to the Earth to be buried in decent Christan Burial at the Discretion of my Execr., nothing Doubting but the General Resurrection I shall Receive the same again by the mighty power of God; and as Touching such worldly Estate wherewith it hath pleased God to Bless me in this Life with, I Give and Demise and Dispose of the same, after my Debts and funeral Charges are paid, in the following Manner and form —

Imprimis; I Give to my well Beloved wife all my Housing and buildings, and my home place, and my Lands whereon they stand to Improve Dureing the time of her Widdowhood or her Remaining my Wido. the lands Containing about thirty acres bounded northerly on Benjamin Thaxter, Easterly on the Small shear line and westerly on Joseph Bicknell and Southerly as to Compleat about the abovesaid thirty acres; also I Give to my wife to Improve two of my Cows, and one of my Swine Dureing the time of her Widdowhood, and what I intend by my hom place is the lands whereon my House and Barn and other Buildings are Standing, all which I Give to my wife to Improve Dureing the time of her Widdowhood; also I Give to my wife all my Houshold Moveables to her Own Disposal, also my Negro Girl named Priscilla to her own Disposal and the time in my apprintes boy Dureing the time of his apprintiseship to be to my wives use —

Item; I Give and Bequeath to my son Thomas Burrel all my lands and Buildings that I have Given my wife to Improve to him his heirs & assigns forever, and my said Son to Come into possession of the Same at the time of his Mothers Decease or her Marraing again, also I Give to my Son Thomas my yok of Oxen and my Colt and my Log chain and one Draft Chain and Iron Bar and my Sith, and my two Calves and one of my Swine, and he to Come into possession of the Same at my Decease, the above Bequest that I have Given to my Son Thos. is to him his heirs and assigns forever he paying my Just Debts —

Item; I Give and Bequeath to my Sons John Burrel, Joseph Burril, Abra. Burrel and Humphrey Burrel all my other Estate that I have not as yet Disposed of to Equally Divided among them four, to them their heirs and Assigns forever, both Real and personal and I do hereby Constitute make and ordain my son John Burrel my Soul Execr. of this my last Will and Testamt., and I do hereby utterly Disalow Revoke Dissanul all and Every other wills, Legacies, Bequests Execrs. before named willed or Bequeathed, Ratifing and Confirming this and no other to be my last will and Testament in the year and above written

Signed, Sealed, published, pronounced, Deliverd                         }

& Declared by the said John Burrel to be his last                         }

will and testamt, in the presents of us the Subscribers                  }                              John Burrel                                        (seal)

Joseph Shaw

Micah Stockbridge

Benja. Shaw

 

Presented for probate on 1 Apr. 1754 by the Execr. therein named, and proved by Joseph Shaw, Micah Stockbridge and Benjamin Shaw. Letters of Administration were granted to Jo. Burrel of Abington Yeoman, the Execr. on the first day of April 1754.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 13, p. 235-237, from FHL microfilm #0551540.

 

 

Will of Josiah Byram of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1805) *

In the name of God amen April 17th. 1805 I Josiah Byram of Bridgwater in the County of Plymouth and Commonwealth of Massachusetts Gentleman, being far advanced in Age, but of a sound disposing Mind & Memory, calling to mind the Frailty of Human Nature do make & ordain this my last Will & Testament principally and first of all I give & recommend, my Soul to God who gave it, & my Body to the earth to be buried in a Christian Burial at the Discretion of my Executor; & touching my worldly Estate, I do dispose of the same in Manner following

Imprimis. I give and bequeath unto Sarah my true & well beloved Wife the use & Improvement of one third part of my improved Lands one third of my Dwelling-House, Barn & Corn Barn, which I now occupy & one third part of my right in a Saw Mill, one third part of my right in a pew in the Meeting house No. 66 near the East door, I also give unto my said Wife, & hereby order my Executor hereafter named to provide or cause to be provided suitable & sufficient Wood at the Door cut fit for one Fire, for & so long as she shall remain my Widow, which if faithfully & constantly performed, she my said widow shall not make or challenge any right of Dower in or on any part of my wood or timber Land. Furthermore, I give & bequeath unto my said Wife one third part of my household Goods & indoor Furniture, also one third of the Corn & Grain & provisions of every kind & Wool & Flax that may be on hand at my decease, with one third of my Books (except John Flavel’s works in 2 large Volumes & my New Great Bible) all which to be at her disposal forever, & one third part of the Hay that may be on the place at my decease.—

Item I give and bequeath unto my Son George Byram & his Heirs forever one third of my wearing Apparel; also Mr John Flavels works in two Volumes one large Copper Kettle & Clothier’s press, also I give to his Son Josiah what notes of hand I have against sd. George Byram

Item. I give & bequeath unto my Son David Byram & his Heirs & Assigns forever a certain piece or parcel of Land lying in the Town of Bridgewater, bounded as follows beginning at the north east Corner of Josiah Hill’s Land, thence easterly in Eleazer Whitman’s range twenty six rods, to a stake & stones standing in sd. range thence south thirty six degrees east to an old maple standing on the Bank of the Brook about twenty rods below the Saw Mill then west thirty five degrees south five rods, then south thirty five degrees east crossing the Brook untill it comes to a Stone Wall, then by sd. Wall untill it comes on the old ways of a Saw Mill, where it comes to the Land I bought of Ebenezer Whitman, then South thirty five degrees east to the Highway, then southerly by the Highway to Nathan Whitman’s land, then in sd Whitman’s range to a rock, south east corner of Josiah Hills land then sd. Hill’s range to the first bounds, reserving an allowance for a Highway through said Lands I also give him about two Acres of low meadow, beginning at a Corner bounds of Josiah Johnson’s range & not many rods southward of an old Ditch, then running in the old ditch untill it strikes Asa Whitmarsh’s land, then in his range untill it comes to Josiah Johnson’s Land, then in his range thirty four rods till it comes to another Bound of said Johnson then westerly to the first Bounds.—

Item I give and bequeath unto sd. David’s Son Preston Byram a certain piece of Land, the south west Field in my Homestead joining to sd. David’s farm, all wall is in except Bars about four acres & half, be the same more or less to be in the possion of my Executor of Heirs untill said Preston arrives at the age of twenty one years, then sd. Executor or his Heirs is to see sd. Preston has proper Security of said Land, to him & his Heirs forever but if sd. preston doth not live to the age of twenty one Years, then my Executor or ~~ Heirs is to have the possion of it forever. (said Preston born Feby. 1797)

Item. I likewise give & bequeath unto my Son David one fourth part of a pew in the meeting house No. 21 in the front & one third of my wearing apparel.—

Item I give and bequeath unto my Son Branch Byram & to his Heirs & assigns forever my Homestead farm with the Buildings thereon standing excepting one half of a Saw-Mill & Lumber yard (reserving the use & Improvement of one third of the Dwelling-house one third of the Barn & Corn Barn to my wife during her Widowhood & one room after her to Mary if not married with such other privileges to Mary as shall hereafter be expressed in her Legacy — The Land bounded as follows beginning at a Stake & Stones in Eleazer Whitman’s range & corner of Beginning at a Stake & Stones in Eleazer Whitman’s range & corner of David Byram’s lot, thence in sd. David’s range untill it comes to preston Byram’s field thence taking the north ward wall & running in that range & Wall on three sides untill it strikes said David’s range and in that range untill it comes to the Highway thence northward by sd. Highway to a Red oak a Bound of Eleazer Whitman & where the road turns & leads to Josiah Johnson’s, thence by several turns by Eleazer Whitman’s land to the first mentioned bound. I also give him my said Son Branch my Pew in the Meeting house near the East Door No. 66, he to come into possession of two thirds at my decease, & the other third at the decease or marriage day of his Mother. I also, give him two thirds of my out door moveables the other third after his Mother’s decease or Marriage, the Remainder of my Neat Stock after my Wife’s part is set off. I also give him my New Great Bible furthermore I give unto my Son Branch Byram & to his Heirs & Assigns forever one half of a Saw Mill with all the privileges thereto belonging is to come into possession of two thirds of the half at my decease; the other third at the decease or Marriage day of his Mother, I likewise give sd. Branch one third of my wearing Apparel.—

Item. I give and bequeath unto my four Daughters Mary Whitman Nabby Clift, Ruth Alden & Mary Byram & to their Heirs as follows viz. to Mary Byram one sixth part of my Household Goods & indoor Moveables after her Mother’s thirds are divided off and the remainder of my said Goods to be equally divided between my said four Daughters.—

Item. I also will and bequeath unto my said Daughter Mary fifty Dollars to be paid her by my Executor, when she arrives to eighteen Years of Age (June 1806) and one hundred Dollars to be paid her by my Executor, on her Marriage day should she marry otherwise my Will is that she shall improve after the decease or marriage of her Mother, one fire room with a privilege of using the Well, Oven, Cellar & Dairy room, what part of each, which is necessary for one to use, while she remains unmarried & my Executor to provide her sufficient fire wood at the Door cut fit for the fire & keeping for a Cow if she require it during her unmarried state.—

Item I also give and bequeath all my printed Books that are not disposed of unto my two Youngest Sons & my four Daughters equally.—

Item I give and bequeath unto my said Son Branch Byram (whom I hereby appoint sole Executor of this my last Will & Testament) all & singular the residue of my Estate, Goods & Chattels of what name or nature soever not otherwise disposed of hereby ordering & directing him my said Son, to pay all my just & honest debts & funeral Charges & to pay out the several Legacies & to provide for his Mother, sufficient firewood as set forth in her bequest —

And I do hereby utterly disallow revoke & disannul all and every of former Wills Testaments Legacies bequests & Executors by me in any Wise named willed and bequeathed, ratifying & confirming this & no other to be my last Will & Testament

In witness whereof I have unto set my hand & Seal the day & Year above written—

Signed sealed pronounced & declared

by the said Josiah Byram to be his

last Will & Testament in presence of us                                                                         Josiah Byram                                    (seal)

                Eleazer Whitman

                Josiah Hill

                William Robinson junr.

 

Presented for probate on the second day of June 1806 by Branch Byram, the Executor therein named, and proved by Josiah Hill and William Robinson junr., two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Branch Byram, the before named Executor.

 

                                                Bridgewater April 19th. 1810 ~

To the Hon. Joshua Thomas Judge of Probate &c for the County of Plymouth.

                I do hereby will and grant that my Mother may have her Dower or thirds given her in my Father’s last will & Testament set off as well in the woodland or Timber land which is devised to me in said Will as in the other Real Estate therein mentioned notwithstanding any provision in said Will beneficial to me to the contrary; as I do not intend to furnish her any longer with fire wood as mentioned in said Will—In Witness whereof I have hereto set my hand & seal this day & Year first above written –

Signed Sealed & delivered in presence of us –                                                              Branch Byram                                  (seal)

  Nahum Mitchell

  Lot Whitmarsh

  Plymouth Ss. April 19th 1810 personally appeared the above named Branch Byram and acknowledged the above Instrument to be his free act & Deed before me

                                                                                                                                                Nahum Mitchell, J. Peace

 

Lot Whitmarsh, Benjamin Robinson and Benjamin Pincin, all of Bridgewater, Gentlemen, were appointed to set off to Sarah, widow of Josiah Byram, late of Bridgewater, one third part of his improved land as her right of Dower for her use during her Widowhood on 20 Apr. 1810. Approved on 15 Aug. 1810.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 40, p. 452-454, from FHL microfilm #0550901, and Vol. 43, p. 258-259.

 

 

Will of Nicholas Byram of Bridgewater, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1727) *

In ye. Name of God Amen. The Eighteenth day of august anno Domini 1727. I Nicholas Byram of Bridgewater in ye. County of Plymouth In New: England, being Ill & weak in Body, but of Perfect mind & memory, Thanks be to God: therefore Calling to mind ye. mortality of my Body: I do make & ordain this my last Will & Testament, That is to Say, Principally & first of all I give & Recomend my Soul into ye. Hands of God yt. gave it: & my Body I Comitt to ye. Earth to be decently Buried at ye discretion of my executors hereafter named, beleiving yt. at ye. general Resurrection I Shall Receive ye. same again by ye. almighty Power of God: And as touching Such worldly Estate Wherewith it hath Pleased God to bless me in this Life: I give demise & dispose of ye. same: in ye. following manner & forme.

Imprimis: I give & Bequeath to Mary my Well:beloved wife (besides what Provision has already been made for Her Support) the Improvement & Benefit of all my meadow att Snell’s meadow, and a Peice of Land Containing about five acres lying between Elnathan Bassetts Land & John Carys: as also an Enclosure of meadow Land about Seven acres lying in ye. North Easterly Side of black brook Swamp, all to be Enjoyed by Her during ye. time of Her natural Life: Also all my moveables or Personal Estate.

Item: I give to my Son Nicholas Byram His Heirs & assignes for Ever (besides what I formerly gave Him by deed) a Tract of Land In Abington lying on ye. Easterly Side of ye. country Rhoad about Sixty acres & a Tract of about ten acres of meadow land near broad Cove also five acres which was formerly Samuel Pools meadow In Bridgewater & Halfe a Purchase Right in ye. undivided Lands. I also give to His Son Jesse Byram His Heirs & assignes for Ever a twenty acre Lott of Land of ye. East Division lying near to bank: Hill.

Item. I give to my Son Ebenezer Byram (whome together with my Wife before mentioned I do hereby Constitute & appoint to be ye. Executors of this my last Will) I give to Him His Heirs & assignes for Ever (besides what I formerly gave Him by deeds) a Lott of meadow at Poor meadow which was formerly Deacon Fobes, and Eight acres on ye. Easterly side of black brook Joyning to that which was John Hawards meadow Land: also halfe a Purchase Right in ye. undivided Lands: and five Pounds in moveable Estate, also Six acres of Land on ye. Easterly Side of ye. Rhoad beyond Birch Swamp, formerly Isaac Harriss.

Item: I give to my Son Josiah Byram His Heirs & assignes for Ever (besides what I formerly gave Him by deed) Seven acres of Land of which His mother has ye. Improvement during Her life in ye. North Easterly Side of black: brook Swamp, with three acres more Joyning to ye. south westerly End & Halfe a Purchase Right in ye. undivided Land.

Item: I give to my Son Joseph Byram His Heirs & assignes for Ever Halfe a twen acre Lott of ye. Last division at black brook, & Halfe a Purchase Right in ye. undivided Lands. I also give to ye. above named Ebenezer Byram: and Josiah Byram & Joseph Byram their Heirs & assignes for Ever, all ye. Remainder of my Lands in black: brook Swamp not already disposed of.

Item: I give to my daughter Mehitable ye. wife of Elisha Allen to Her Her Heirs & assignes for Ever all yt. Land of mine by lying joyning to Sd. Elisha Allens. Home living being near Sixty acres Joyning together, Part of Several division as also one quarter Part of my meadow at Snells meadow after Her mother decease.

Item: I give to my daughter Mary ye. wife of Edward Haward Her Heirs & assignes for Ever my two Lotts in ye. Cedar Swamp Called ye. Eagles nest or ye. Town Cedar Swamp: also five acres of meadow at Snells meadow after Her mothers’ decease.

Item: I give to my daughter Susannah ye. wife of Jonathan Bass, to Her Her Heirs & assignes for Ever ye. Remainder of my meadow Land at Snells meadow after Her mothers’ decease: and also two bonds for money Signed by sd. Jonathan Bass’ Containing about fourty one Pound. And further my will is yt. after my Just debts: funeral Charges & all other necessary Expence is duly Satisfyed & Paid yt. after ye. decease of my wife there be a Just & Equal Division of all my Stock Household goods & other moveables (Except what is above disposed of) among all my Children before named.

memorandum ye. Cutterend of ye. 23 line with ye. 24 & ye forepart of ye. 25th. being an oversight in writing was Cancelled & blotted out before Signing & Sealing.

Signed Sealed & Pronounced by ye. sd.

Nicholas Byram to be His last Will                                                                                  Nicholas Byram                                (seal)

& Testament In Presence of

Joseph Edson

Recompence Cary

James Cary

 

Octobr. ye. 20. 1727. Joseph Edson, Recompence Cary & James Cary all of Bridgewater in ye. County of Plymouth: made oath yt. they Saw ye. above named Nicholas Byram Signe Seal & Heard Him declare ye. above written Instrument to be His last will & Testament & yt. at ye. same time they Sett to their Hands as Wittnesses: and yt. also according to ye. best of their observation He then was of a Sound & disposing mind & memory.

                                                Before Isaac Winslow Judge of Probates

 

The will of Capt. Nicholas Byram, late of Bridgewater, was presented for probate on the first day of October 1727, and administration of the estate was granted to Mr. Ebenezer Byram, one of the sons of the deceased, and Executor.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Captain Nicholas Byram, late of Bridgwater, who deceased on 12 Sept. 1727, was appraised by Joseph Edson, Recompence Cary, and James Cary on 19 Oct. 1727, but not totaled. Lands willed to Nicholas Byram were valued at £200, lands willed to Ebenezer Byram were valued at £80, the land lying near black brook Swamp was valued at £176, two purchase rights in undivided lands were valued at £60, lands willed to the three daughters were valued at £380.10, a lot of land willed to Jesse Byram was valued at £30, and three pieces of land not disposed of were valued at £64. Ebenezer Byram, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 20 Oct. 1727.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 5, pp. 340-341, 342-343, 374, from FHL microfilm #0550511.

 

 

Will of George Cadman of Dartmouth, Bristol County, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1718) *

To all people to whom these presents shall Come Greeting &c: I George Cadman of Darthmouth in the County of Bristol within the province of the Masachusets Bay in New England being very Sick & weak in Body But of perfect mind & memory thanks be given unto God therefore Calling to mind the mortality of my Body & knowing that it is Apointed once for men to Dye: Therefore for Setling & desposing of my Worldly Estate do make this my Last Will & Testament to be of force after my Decease hereby making null & Void all other Wills by me formerly made & Rattifing this to be my Last Will & Testament.

Imprimis I Give & bequeath to Hannah my dearly beloved wife all my homestead farm that is laid out in the Eight hundred acre [torn] Land with all [torn] to the above sd [torn] until my Granson George White [torn] to the age of [torn] & when my sd Granson [torn] White shall Arive to the age of twentyone years my Will is that he shall have & Immediately posses the [torn] of of all the abovesd Land & meadow & to his half on the north side of both upland & meadow by [___] to the South Side of the above sd Land & meadow with all the Housing orchards fences & apratences thereon or thereunto belonging my Will is that my sd Loving wife Hannah shall have & quietly posses dureing the time of her natural Life & Immadiately after my wives Deceas all the above sd Land & meadow I Give to my sd Granson George White to him his heirs & assignes for Ever.

Item I Give & bequeath to my loveing daughter Elizabeth White & to her Husband William White all the upland & meadow that is laid out where they now live with two acres & fifty Rods of Sedg flat Lying in [___] river at the Shiprock flat & one hundred & five acres of land in the four hundred acre devition as it is laid out & qualified & one quarter of acre of seder swamp all the [torn] land meadow & Ceder swamp is scituate Lying & being within the [torn]mouth afore sd [torn] my daughter Elisabeth & her Husband William White the one half of my last devition of land the above sd land meadow & Ceder swamp given to my sd daughter Elisabeth White & her Husband William White to be & remain to them dureing the time of their naturall Lives and after their deceas the Homested farm where the sd William White now liveth I give to my Granson William White to him his heirs & Assignes for Ever: & the one hundred & five acres of upland above given to my Daughter Elisabeth White & her Husband William White after their Deceas I Give to my Granson Roger White to him his heirs & Assignes for Ever: & the remaining part of my hour hundred acre devitio being ninty five acres as it is laid out & qualified I Give to my Granson Christopher White to him his heirs & Assignes for Ever: & all my meadow, or sedg flat lying on the Ship flat & allso all my Last devition of land I Give to my two gransons viz: Roger White & Christopher White & to be Equally devided between my sd two Granson & to be & remain to them their heirs & Assignes for Ever: Item I give to my four Gransons William George Roger & Christopher one half Share of Ceder swamp to them theirs heirs & Each of their heirs & Assignes for Ever: that is to say one quarter of a share att my Deces & the other quar of a share after [torn] father & all others Deceas

[torn] Anthony Daughter of John Anthony of Rhoad Island five pound [torn] & good Bed & Beding thereto belonging to be paid by my Executrix hereafter named

Item I give & bequeath unto my negro man James his freedom after the expiration of three years & three quarters from the Date of these presents: Item: I give to my daughter Elisabeth White Thirty pound to be paid by my sd Executrix out of my personall Estate: and all the rest & residue of my personall Estate I give & bequeath to my true & Loving wife Hannah whome I Constitute & appoint to be my whole & soule Executrix of this my Last Will & Testament I Witness where of I the sd George Cadman have hereunto set my hand & Seal this twenty fourth of November In the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred & eighteen.

                                                                                Be known by these presents that before the signing & sealing of these presen

                                                                                I the above sd George Cadman do order my Executrix the above named to pay

                                                                                my grandaughter Elisabeth White twenty pound to be Leivied out of my

                                                                                sd Estate.

Signed Sealed Published Pronounsed                                                                              George Cadman

& Declared by the above sd George                

Cadman to be his Last Will &

Testament in the presence of

Us the Subscribers

William Cadman

Robert Tripp

Joseph Tripp

 

Proved on 6 Jan. 1718/19 by William Cadman, Robbert Trip and Joseph Tripp.

 

Letters of Administration were granted to Hannah Cadman widow relect of Mr George Cadman late of Dartmouth with James Tripp and William Cadman both of Dartmouth as sureties on 6 Jan. 1719.

 

Elezebeth White gave a receipt to Hannah Cadman for her share of the estate of George Cadman on 29 June 1736 witnessed by William White.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Bristol County Probate File “George Cadman, Dartmouth, 1718,” from FHL microfilm #572195, the will badly damaged with age, but a note in the file refers to the researcher to look at Record Book 3, p. 500 for the transcribed copy. Unfortunately Record Book 3 does not appear to have been microfilmed by the LDS Church, nor was it abstracted by H. L. Peter Rounds, so this is the best I am able to make out.

 

 

Will of Hannah Cadman of Dartmouth, Bristol County, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1749) *

The Last will and testament of Hannah Cadman of Dartmouth in the County of Bristol in the province of the Masachusets Bay in New England Widow Being weak of Body But of Sound Disposeing mind and memory thanks be given to god there fore Calling to Mind the Mortalitie of my Body and knowing that it is appointed for all men and women once to die and being willing to give and dispose of this worldly Estate wherewith it hath pleased god to bles me with in this Life to and amongst my Daughter and Grand Children do demise and dispose of the same in manner and form following

Imprimis I will and order that all my Just debts and dues be paid by my Executor hear after named in Convenient time after my deceas

Item I Give and Bequeath to my Daughter Elizabeth White Wife to William of sd Dartmouth all my Wearing apparril also my Silver tankard and Smalest Silver Spoon.

Item I give and Bequeath unto my Grandson William White my Great Bible My Bigest Silver Cup and My Silver Spoon Marked with the Letters W C and fifty pounds in money or Bills of Credit old teanor

Item I give and Bequeath to my son George White one Silver Spoon and my Gun which was his Grand father Cadmans together with my Cubbord that stands in the Chamber I also give unto him my sd Grand son George White all my farming tools as Cart yoaks Chains axes hoes and other tools

Item I Give and bequeath to my Grand daughter Sarah Brown Wife of John Brown of Tivertown my Small Silver Cup and one Silver Spoon and twenty pounds in Money or Bills of Credit old teanor

Item I Give and Bequeath to my Grand daughter Hannah Taber Wife of William Taber of Dartmouth aforesd twenty five pounds in money or Bills of Credit old teanor to be paid to her, as also the Money above Given to My Grand daughter Brown by My Executor hear after named out of My Mony by me or in Bond, due to me

Item I Give and Bequeath To my two Great Granddaughters hannah Slocum and Mary Slocum Daughters to My Grand Daughter Elizabeth Slocum deceased thirty pounds in Mony or Bills of Credit old teanor to be paid by my Executor that is to Say to Each of them fiften pounds as they shall Come to the age of Eightiten years but if Either of them shall die Before they Receive their portion my will is that the next surviveing Sister shall have it

Item I Give and bequeath to five of my other Grand Children Beside Beside who are above named (Viz) Roger White Christopher White oliver White Thomas and Susanna White to Each of them one Silver Spoon to Be delivered to Each of them by my Executor hear after named When they Severaly shall be Capable to Receive them Either by age or Guidains

Item My Mind and Will is that all the Remainder of My Estate not hear in Given away Before as mony by me or in bonds houshold Goods Indores and out dores moveables Chattels Sheep hors Kind and al other my Cretures Shall Be Equaly Divided (Except what I shall hear after Give to Grand daughter Susanna White) Which I Equaly to Give to My Daughter Elizabeth White and my Six Grand Children namely William White Roger White Christopher White oliver White Abner White Thomas White and Susanna White But My Mind and will is that My Grand daughter Susanna White Shall have My Best feather Bed and Bolster in part of her Equal Shear of the Whole so Give to My Daughter and Grand Children

Item I Constitute and appoint my well beloved Grand son William White to be my Whole and sole Executor to this My Last Will and testament to be the same well and truly performed and I do hear by Revoke and make void all other and former wills by me hear to fore made Ratifieing and Confirming this and no other to be my last Will and testament In Witnes Where of I have hear unto Set My hand and seal this thirtenth Day of the 12mo Called februery anno domini 1748/9

Signed Sealed published                                                                                                                    her

pronounced and declared                                                                                                   Hannah  __  Cadman                         (seal)

By the sd Hannah Cadman                                                                                                           Mark

To be her Last will and

Testament in presents of us

   the Subscribers

Benjamin Tripp

Joseph Tripp

Beriah Goddard

 

Probated on 2 May 1749, and proved by Benjamin Trip and Joseph Trip, two of the witnesses.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Hannah Cadman Widdow, was appraised by Joseph Brownell, Richard Cornell and Timothy Tripp on 14 Mar. 1749, and totaled £1717.19.00, and attested to before Silvester Richmond, Justice of the Peace. William White, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 2 May 1749.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Bristol County Probate File “Hannah Cadman, Dartmouth, 1749,” from FHL microfilm #0572195.

 

 

Will of John Carver of Middleborough, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1833) *

                In the name of God Amen, I John Carver of Middleborough in the County of Plymouth and Commonwealth of Massachusetts Yeoman, do make and ordain this Instrument to be my last Will and Testament hereby revoking all others. –

Imprimis. I give and bequeath to my beloved wife Mary Carver one half of all the Personal property which I shall leave at my decease, including Debts due to me, to her use and disposal forever, and also the use and improvement of one half of my Real Estate, excepting the Farm whereon my son Josiah now lives, after the payment of my Just Debts and Funeral Charges for which payment some part of my said Real Estate is first to be disposed of, and she my said wife is to have the improvement of one half part of the remainder during her natural life. –

And in case that the Personal Estate and Improvement above bequeathed shall not be sufficient for her comfortable support then my will is that so much of the land set to her to improve shall be sold as shall be sufficient for her comfortable support.

Item, I give and bequeath to my son Josiah Carver my Wearing appearel, and also the use and improvement of Four Acres off the Northeast corner of the Farm where he now lives, including the Buildings, during his natural life, And my will is that his sons shall have said premises after his decease, or if he leaves no Son then my will is that it shall be to his Daughters, And my Will is, and I hereby authorize and direct my Executer hereafter named to quit and pass Deeds to convey all my right title which I have in and to the remainder of said Farm whereon my said son Josiah now lives to his two Sons John Carver 2d and Orlando Carver they the said John and Orlando paying to my Estate three Hundred dollars for the same, in case I leave said remainder of said Farm unsold at my decease.~

Item, I give and bequeath to my Two daughters Mercy the wife of Joseph Benson and Patia the wife of Benjamin Coombs Twenty Dollars each, to be paid in one year after my decease.

Item. I give and bequeath to my Daughter in law Nancy Wood the privelege of living in my Dwelling House, and getting as much wood off of my land as shall be sufficient, for her fire and the privelege of raising as much vegetables as she needs for her use as long as she remains a widow and likes to improve them, but she is not hereby to have the right to sell or let the same to any other person,

Item, I give and bequeath to my Daughter Dorothy Carver all and singular the rest and residue of my property both Real and Personal wherever the same may be found, and also the reversion which may remain in that part of my real estate after the decease of my said Wife, To have and to hold to her, her heirs and assigns forever

Item I do constitute and appoint William Nelson Sole Executor to this my last will and Testament and hereby direct him to give my body Christian burial, after my decease, and speedily to pay all my just debts and Funeral charges. ~

In Witness Whereof I the said John Carver have hereunto set my hand and Seal this twelfth day of March AD. one thousand Eight hundred and thirty three,

                                                                                                                                                John Carver                      (seal)

Signed, Sealed and declared by the above named John Carver to be his last Will and Testament in presence of us who in his presence and in the presence of each other have here to set our names as Witnesses

Barnabas Perkins

William O. Barrows

Abiah N. Perkins

 

Presented for probate on 6 May 1834, and proved by Barnabas Perkins, William O Barrows and Abiah N Perkins, the subscribing witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to William Nelson on 6 May 1834.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of John Carver, late of Middleborough, was appraised by William O Barrows, Jonathan Cobb, and Horatio N. Cobb on 6 June 1834, his real estate totaled $2715, including his homestead farm valued at $1800, 4 acres of land on which Josiah Carver now lives on valued at $200, and 250 acres of land in Maine valued at $250, and his personal estate totaled $328.21. William Nelson, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 1 Dec. 1834.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 76, pp. 209-211, 580, from FHL microfilm #0555263.

 

 

Will of Joseph Carver of Bridgewater, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1764) *

In the Name of God Amen, I Joseph Carver of Bridgwater in the County of Plymouth being thro’ the abundant mercy & Goodness of God of a sound mind & perfect understanding & memory, do constitute this my Last Will & testament, & desire it may be recieved by all as such—first, I most humbly bequeath my soul to God my maker, beseeching his most gracious acceptance of it, through the all sufficient merits and mediation of my most compassionate redeemer Jesus Christ, who I trust will not reject me but prepare me for the time of my disolution & then take me to himself, into that peace & rest & incomparable felicity which he has prepared for all that Love & fear his holy name. amen. blessed be God – I Give my body to the Earth from whence it was taken, in full assurance of its resurrection from thence at the Last day, as for my burial, I desire it may be decent at the discretion of my Executor hereafter named, as to my worldly Estate, I Will and positively order that all my debts be paid

First—I Give to my dear and Loving wife for the term that she remains my widow one third part of my Land improvements Lying near the house in which I now dwell, the best room of which, I also Give her, a Bed & furniture, one table, two chairs, a pot & kettle & half the Earthen ware all for her improvement during said term

Item—I Give to my son Robert Carver & my daughter Experience Lummis, to his & her heirs & Assigns forever all my personal & Real Estate, not yet disposed otherwise of, to be equally divided between them except my wearing apparell, which I Give to my Son Robert, or the whole to my son Robert ordering him to pay Experience ten pounds, ordering them to pay unto my son Joseph Carver the sum of Five shillings immediately after my decease, also I order them to pay unto my daughter Elisabeth Packard Five shillings, also to my second son Benjamin Carver the sum of three pounds thirteen shillings & four pence & to my daughter Sarah Porter the Like sum, I also order my said son Robert & daughter Experience to pay unto my Grandson Abiezer Porter twelve shillings and Eight pence, and I do hereby order and constitute Perez Fobes of said Bridgwater to be the Sole Executor of this my last Will and testament, & trustee for my wife & children. In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this twentieth day of June & in the year of our Lord 1764

    Witnesses

Benjamin Keith                                                                                                                    Joseph Carver                  (seal)

Libeus Fobes

Silvea Fobes ~

 

Presented for probate on 28 Sept. 1778 by Perez Fobes, the Executor therein named, and proved by Benjamin Keith and Libeus Fobes, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Perez Fobes, the before named Executor.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Mr. Joseph Carver, late of Bridgwater, was appraised on 29 Sept. 1778 by Josiah Fobes, Christopher Dyer, and James Leach, and totaled £766.8.6, including his homestead lands and barn and 2½ acres of swamp valued at £453.0. Perez Fobes, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 5 Oct. 1778.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 25, p. 92-94, from FHL microfilm #0550713.

 

 

Will of Caleb Cary of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1816) *

Be it remembered that I Caleb Cary of Bridgwater in the County of Plymouth & State of Massachusetts, considering the Uncertainty of this mortal Life & being of sound and perfect mind & Memory, blessed be almighty God for the same do make & publish this my last will & Testament in manner & form following

                First I will that all my just Debts & funeral Charges be paid & discharged by my Executor herein after named.—

                2dly. I give & bequeath to my honoured Mother Mary Cary all my real & personal Estate Goods & Chattels of every name & Nature whatsoever excepting what shall be herein after given and described to be to her whole Disposal & Improvement forever.—

                3dly. I give to my Sister Betsey Gilbert my two third parts of south-brook Meadow (so called) which I own in common & undivided with her at this time for her use & disposal.—

                Lastly I do hereby constitute & appoint Mr. Nathaniel Gilbert Executor of this my last Will & Testament.—  In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand & Seal the twentieth day of February eighteen hundred & sixteen

Signed Sealed & declared by the within named

Caleb Cary to be his last Will & Testament

in presence of us.—                                                                                                             Caleb Cary                                        (seal)

                Nathan Mitchell

                Ezra Hyde

                Daniel Mitchell –

 

Presented for probate on 2 April 1816 by Nathaniel Gilbert, the Executor therein named, and proved by Nathan Mitchell and Daniel Mitchell Esquires, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Nathaniel Gilbert, the before named Executor.

 

Daniel Mitchell Esqr., Holman Sprague, Cabinet-maker, and Abram Washburn, Gentleman, all of Bridgwater, were appointed to appraise the Estate of Caleb Cary, late of Bridgwater, on 2 Apr. 1816. The Inventory of the Estate of Caleb Cary, late of Bridgwater, dated May 1816, totaled $3028.00, including his real estate valued at $2667. Nathl. Gilbert, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 7 June 1817.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 48, p. 1-2, from FHL microfilm #0550905, and Vol. 50, p. 238.

 

 

Will of Ephraim Cary of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1789) *

In the name of God Amen – the thirty first day of March in the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred & eighty nine.— I Ephraim Cary of Bridgwater in the County of Plymouth & Commonwealth of Massachusetts, being weak in body but of perfect mind & memory, thanks be given to God therefor, and calling to mind the mortality of my body & knowing that it is appointed for all men once to die, do make & ordain this my Last will & testament, that is to say principally & first of all, I give & recommend my soul into ye hands of God that gave it, and my body I recommend to the earth to be buried in decent Christian burial at the discretion of my executor nothing doubting but at the general resurrection I shall recieve the same again by the mighty power of God, and as touching such worldly estate wherewith it hath pleased God to bless me with in his Life, I Give and dispose of the same in the following manner

  Imprimis, I Give & bequeath to Mary my beloved wife, all the Linnen Cloth she hath made while Living with me, I further give unto her while she remains my widow the sole improvement of one half of all my Lands not heretofore disposed of, also one half of my dwelling house with a Right in my Barn & Corn Barn to improve such a part of them as shall be necessary for her own use, with a Right to set in my Pew in the meeting house, also ye improvement of two Cows & the improvement of a horse to ride on when she shall want, also my indoor moveables not heretofore disposed of, and such a part of Corn Grain & provisions stored up in the house or barn at the time of my decease as shall be necessary for her own consumption & for keeping two Cows the ensuing season, and at the expiration hereof all the Lands, buildings, with the Cows horse, Pew & two feather beds & bedding to return to my executor, and all the other indoor moveables to Return to my Daughter Anna Cary

   Item – I Give & bequeath to my Son Daniel Cary, thirteen pounds six shillings & eight pence to be paid him by my Executor in Quick Stock at the expiration of one year after my decease, if he be then alive also the one half of my wearing apparell, which together with what I formerly gave him I think to be his full share out of my estate

 Item – I Give and bequeath unto my Daughter Anna Cary all my indoor moveables except two feather beds & bedding which I have heretofore given to my Executor, to her forever after her mother’s decease and the improvement of one Cow & one half of my dwelling house, and such part of my Barn & Corn barn as shall be necessary for her own use with a Right in my orchard to as many apples as she wants for her own use, also one half of my books so Long as she shall remain unmarried at the expiration of which the buildings & Pew which I give her a Right to set in to Return to my Executor, which together with what I formerly gave her, I judge to be her full share out of my estate

   Item – I Give & bequeath to my Daughter Azubah Johnson wife to Josiah Johnson five shillings to be paid her by my Executor in one year after my decease, with what I formerly gave her I think to be her full share out of my Estate

   Item – I Give & bequeath to my Daughter Phebe Allen wife to Ezra Allen five shillings, to be paid to her by my Executor in one year after my decease, that together with what I formerly gave her, I judge to be her full share of my Estate

   Item  I Give and bequeath to my Daughter Susannah Keith wife to Asa Keith five shillings, to be paid unto her by my Executor in one year after my decease which together with what I have heretofore given her I think to be her full share out of my estate

   Item – I Give & bequeath unto my Daughter Huldah Allen wife to Simeon Allen, five shillings, to be paid unto her by my Executor in one year after my decease, that together with what I have heretofore given her I think to be her full share of my estate

        Item – I Give and bequeath to my son Ephraim Cary junr, whom I Likewise constitute and appoint the sole Executor of this my Last will & testament, all & singular my Lands, Buildings, tenements, Goods & Estate both Real, Personal & mixed of every sort & kind not heretofore disposed of, and if my son Daniel Cary should not be Living at the time herein prefixed for Recieving his Legacy, said Legacy to remain & be the property of my Executor, to him the said Ephraim Cary junr. his heirs & assigns forever, hereby Obliging him, his heirs, Executors & administrators to pay all my just debts, funeral Charges & the Legacies herein named, willed & bequeathed, and I do confirm unto him the said Ephraim Cary junr, his heirs & assigns forever my buildings Lands & Pew in the meeting house when his mother & sister shall have done with the improvement of them agreable to this will, and I Do Ratify and confirm this & no other, my Last will & testament

  In witness whereof I have hereunto Set my hand & seal this day & year above written. –

Signed, Sealed Published, Pronounced &

delivered by said Ephraim Cary as his Last                                                                   Ephraim Cary                                   (seal)

will and testament, in presence of us

                Cushing Mitchell

                Jacob Hill junr

                Samuel Beals

 

Presented for probate on 5 March 1792 by Ephraim Cary, the Executor therein named, and proved by Jacob Hill junr. and on ye. 30th day of ye. same month by Cushing Mitchell, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Ephraim Cary, yeoman, the before named Executor, with Jacob Hill junr. yeoman and Cushing Mitchell Gentleman, all of Bridgwater, as sureties.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 31, p. 492-494, from FHL microfilm #0550716.

 

 

Will of Francis Cary of Bridgewater, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1724) *

In the Name of God Amen: The Second day of January 1723/4. I Francis Cary of Bridgewater in ye County of Plymouth in ye Province of ye massachusetts Bay In New: England Husbandman being aged & Infirm of Body thô (thrô Divine goodness) of Perfect mind & memory & Calling to mind the mortality of my Body & knowing that it is appointed to all men once to dye; Do make & ordain this my Last will & Testament that is to Say Principally & first of all: I Recomend my Soul into ye Hands of God that gave it & my Body to a decent Burial at ye Discretion of my Executors nothing Doubting but at ye general Resurrection I Shall Receive the Same again by ye mighty Power of God; and as Touching That worldly Estate that God has blest me with I give Demise & dispose of ye same in ye following manner & form.

Imprimis I give & Bequeath unto my Eldest Son Samuel Cary all ye Lands where He now dwells being by Estimation about one Hundred & fourty acres be ye same more or less with my Lott in west meadow Halfe my Right in undivided Lands within ye Sd Township of Bridgewater.

Item I give & Bequeath unto my Son Ephraim Cary all my Lands where I now dwell with my Interest in Poor meadow Cedar Swamp & halfe my Right in ye undivided Lands in sd Township together with all ye Rest of my Lands & Right in Lands within ye Sd Township of Bridgewater WheresoEver or whatsoEver; always Provided & upon Condition that ye sd Ephraim Cary His Heirs Executors or administrators do well & truly Pay or cause to be Paid To my three Daughters mary, Lydia & malatiah or their Heirs or assignes The Legacy hereafter named viz/ To ye two Children of my Daughter Mary Deceased the Sum of Ten Pounds. To my Daughter Lydia the Sum of Ten Pounds which I give Her together with my Bed That I Lye upon & Its furniture & also halfe my moveables within doors excepting what my Daughter malatiah is properly Pol[?] of already. To my Daughter malatiah the Sum of Ten Pounds together with the other halfe of my moveables within doors & Two cows; The Childrens Legacy to be Paid when they come of age; and those to my two Daughters as soon as may be after my decease; I Do also Nominate appoint & ordain Deacon Joseph Edson & Joseph Hayward my Sons in Law Executors of this my Last Will & Testament & Doe hereby utterly Renounce Disclaim & Revoke all other wills & Testaments at any Time heretofore made & Signed declaring this & none other to be my only True & Last Will & Testament In Wittness where of I have hereunto Sett my Hand & Seal this Second Day of January Seventeen Hundred & Twenty three or four; & In ye tenth year of the Reign of our Soveraign Lord George King of great Brittan & Ireland &c. Defender of ye Faith.

Signed Sealed & Delivered                                                                                                                Francis Cary                     (seal)

In Presence of us

Joseph Hayward

Thomas Hayward

Solomon Johnson

 

Probated on Aprill ye 10th 1728, and proved by Joseph Hayward, Thomas Hayward, and Solomon Johnson.

 

The inventory of Francis Cary, late of Bridgewater, who died on 6 Sept. 1727, was appraised by Nathaniel Hayward, Recompence Cary, and Daniel Alden on 27 Oct. 1727.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 5, pp. 394-395, 401-402, from FHL microfilm #0550511.

 

 

Will of James Cary of Bridgewater, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1706) *

The last Will & Testament of James Cary of the Town of Bridgwater in the County of Plimouth in New England

I James Cary of the Town & County aforesd being weak in body but of sound Judgment & disposing memory (Praised be God) do make & ordaine this my last will & Testament in manner & form as followeth.

And first of all I do Resign up my Spiritt through Jesus Christ to God that gave it my body to be committed to the Earth from whence it was, By a decent Interment according to the descretion of my Executrix hereafter nominated & my will is that after my Just debts & funerall Expenses be paid the rest of my Estate be disposed of as followeth

Imprimis I give unto my dear & loving wife Mary Cary the sole Improvement of all my lands & housing togather with the Rest of my Estate for her own Comfort dureing her widdowhood & the Comfort of my children dureing their minority. And my will is that my son James do abide with his mother & that he be Subject to her till he shall attain to the age of one & twenty years to be helpful to her in managing the sd Estate.

Item I give to my Son James Cary all my lands & housing, only Reserving to my wife her thirds of the Improvement while she continueth in my name.

Item I give unto my four Daughters Mercy Cary Mary Cary Hannah Cary & Elizabeth Cary to Each of them a cow to be delivered to them upon their disposall by marriage or otherwise going of from my further dependance upon the sd Estate & after my wives decease the rest of my moveable Estate to be Equally divided amongst them all, And finally I nominate & appoint Mary my dear wife to be sole Executrix of this my last Will & Testament; & my trusty & wellbeloved friend Joseph Shaw to be overseer to my Son James to guide him & to advise him dureing his minority in whatsoever If necesary, utterly renouncing & Revoking all other Wills & Testament – whatsoever; In witness whereof I have hereunto Set my hand & seal it being October the 18th Annoq: Dom: 1706

                                                                                                                                                James Carey      (seal)

Signed Sealed & Published

in the presents of

William Brett

Joseph Edson Jur

Nathaniel Brett

 

On the 4h day of March Anno Domini 1706 before Nathll. Thomas Esqr: Judge of ye Probate of Wills &c: William Brett Joseph Edson Jur: & Nathaniel Brett witnesses to the above Said will made oath that they were present & did se & hear the above sd James Carey Sign seal & declare the above written to be his last will & Testament & that he then was of a disposeing mind to the best of their Judgments

                                                                                                                Nathll: Thomas Register

Letters Testamentary were granted to Mary, Relict Widdow of the sd deceased & Sole Executrix, on 4 Mar. 1706[07].

 

The Inventory of the moveable Estate of James Cary, lately deceased, was appraised by Deacon William Brett, Francis Carey, and Isaac Alden on 28 Dec. 1706, and was sworn to by Mary Carey, the executrix, on 7 Mar. 1706[/7].

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 2, pp. 96-97, 105, from FHL microfilm #0550748.

 

 

Will of John Cary of Bridgewater, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1769) *

                                                In the Name of God, Amen. ~

The eighteenth day of November A.D. 1769. I John Cary of Bridgwater, in the county of Plymouth in New-England yeoman, being sick & weak in body, but of perfect mind & memory, thanks be given to God, therefore calling unto mind that it is appointed for all men once to die, do make & ordain this my Last will & testament, that is to say, Principally & first of all I give & recomend my soul into the hands of God that gave it, & my body I recomend to the earth to be buried in decent christian burial at the discretion of my executor, nothing doubting but at the general resurrection I shall receive the same again by the mighty power of God, and as touching such worldly estate wherewith it hath pleased God to bless me, in this life, I give, demise & dispose of the same in the following manner & form.

Imprs. I give & bequeath to my daughter Molly Hicks the wife of Amos Hicks of Rehoboth, the sum of six pounds, to be collected out of my estate & paid to her by my executor hereafter-named in twelve months after my decease, which together with what she formerly had, I judge to be her share out of my estate.

Item, I give to my daughter Thankful Orcutt the wife of Jonathan Orcutt, all my household goods or indoor movables, (excepting books & wearing apparel.) —

Item, I give & bequeath to my sons John & Beriah Cary, & my daughter Martha Cary Living in the province of New Jersey, and to the above-named Thankfull Orcutt, and to my grandaughter Eunice Cary, the daughter of my son Henry Cary deced, all my lands, buildings & corn-mill, & books, wearing-apparel, quick-stock, & outdoor movables, and the rest of my estate if any there be, after my just debts, & funeral charges, and the abovesaid legacy is paid, to be equally divided between them, to be by them & each of them, & their heirs & assigns peaceably possessed & enjoyed forever. and my will is that deacon Jonathan Cary of Bridgwater, be guardian for my grandaughter Eunice Cary abovenamed. I Likewise constitute make & ordain mr. John Orcutt of Bridgwater yeoman, to be my sole executor of this my Last will & testament and I do hereby utterly disallow, revoke & disanull all & every other former testament, or will any ways before-named by me, ratifying & confirming this, and no other, to be my Last will & testament. –  In witness whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and seal, the day and year above written.

Signed, sealed, published, pronounced & declared                                                       John Cary                                          (seal)

by the said John Cary as his last will & testament

in the presence of us the subscribers. –

Nathan Allen

Seth Keith

Adam Alden

 

Presented for probate on 17 Oct. 1770 by John Orcutt, the Executor therein named, and proved by Seth Keith and John Alden, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to John Orcutt, the Executor.

 

The Inventory of the estate of John Cary, late of Bridgewater, was appraised on 19 Oct. 1770 by Thos. Whitman, Matthew Allen junr. and John Whitman 3d., and totaled £312.14.3, including his lands, buildings, and corn-mill valued at £230.  John Orcutt, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 7 Jan. 1771.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 20, p. 418-419, from FHL microfilm #0550711.

 

 

Will of Jonathan Cary of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1802) *

        In the name of God amen the twentieth day of March in the Year of our Lord one Thousand eight hundred & two – I Jonathan Cary of Bridgwater in the County of Plymouth & Commonwealth of Massachusetts in America Yeoman being in perfect mind & memory calling to Mind the Mortality of my Body do make & ordain this my last will & Testament that is to say principally & first of all I give & recommend my Soul into the Hand of God who gave it and my Body I recommend to the Earth to be buried in a decent manner at the discretion of my executor. And as touching such worldly Estate wherewith it has pleased God to bless me in this Life I give demise & dispose of in the following Manner & Form. –

            Imprimis. I give unto my well beloved Wife Mary Cary all my indoor Moveables & Household Goods, excepting my wearing Apparel, I also give her one Cow to be wholly at her disposal, I also give her the Improvement of one half of my Dwelling house & also the Improvement of one third of that part of my Homestead, which is hereafter bequeathed to my Son James Cary for and during the term of her natural Life –

                Item I give & bequeath to my Son Moses Cary (whom I constitute & appoint Executor to this my last will and Testament) thirty acres of Land at the West End of the Lots of Land which I purchased of Thomas West & Joseph Reed with all the Buildings thereon –

                Item I give to my Son Jonathan Cary Junr about twenty acres of Land upon the north side of my Homestead as it is now bounded off for his Improvement be it more or less with all the Buildings thereon & also one half of my Meadow & upland which I own at the East End of those Lots of Land, which I purchased of Thomas West & Joseph Reed —

                Item I give to my Son Alpheus Cary one hundred Dollars to be paid him in eighteen months after my decease by his three Brothers, that is to say, his Brother Moses Cary to pay him thirty three Dollars & one third, his Brother Jonathan Cary to pay him the same Sum & his Brother James Cary the like Sum of thirty three Dollars & a third –

                Item I give and bequeath to my Son James Cary the southerly part of my Homestead containing thirty Acres more or less & is the remainder thereof which I have not given to my Son Jonathan Cary with the Buildings thereon, I also give him the one half of my Meadow & upland, which I own at the east End of the Lots of Land I purchased of Thomas West & Joseph Reed, I also give him all the upland on the plain which I own & the Meadow on Trout Brook, excepting about two acres which I purchased of John King, reserving the Improvement of the upland on the plain & the Meadow on Trout Brook for my Daughter Dorothy Cary, I also give him all my personal Estate which I have not otherwise disposed of in this Will. I also enjoin on him to find his Mother & Sister Dorothy Cary a sufficiency of Fire wood cut & drawn to the Door of the House suitable for their Fire as long as they both or either of them live –

                Item I give & bequeath to my Daughter Sarah Alden about two acres of Meadow which I purchased of John King said Meadow lies on Trout Brook and on the south side of Moses Cary’s Lot. –

                Item I give to my Daughter Dorothy Cary one Cow, I give her the Improvement of the north room in my House also the Improvement of the upland on the Plain & the Meadow on Trout Brook (which I have given to my Son James) for & during the Term of her natural Life –

                                I give to my Wife & six Children an equal right to my Pew in the Publick meeting house in the north precinct of Bridgewater. –

                            I give to my four Sons the whole of my wearing apparel to be equally divided among them —

                I order my Sons Moses Jonathan & James to pay my funeral Expences & all the legal & necessary Charges & Expences of settling my Estate.

                I order my Son James to keep his Mother’s Cow both Summer and winter so long as she shall think fit to keep one & I also order him in like manner to keep his Sister Dorothy’s Cow as long as she shall think fit to have one kept.–

            And I do utterly disallow & disannul all & every former Testament Will, Legacy & Bequest and Executor by me in any ways before named willed or bequeathed, ratifying & confirming this & no other to be my last Will & Testament. In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand & Seal the day & year first above written –

signed, sealed, published pronounced & declared

by the said Jonathan Cary to be his last Will

& Testament in the presence of us the Subscribers                                                       Jonathan Cary                                  (seal)

                Noah Ames

                John Ames

                Daniel Howard Junr.

 

Presented for probate on 6 April 1813 by Moses Cary, the Executor therein named, and proved by Noah Ames and Daniel Howard junr. Esqr., two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Moses Cary, the before named Executor.

 

Howard Cary Esqr., John Ames and Samuel Alden Junr., yeomen, all of Bridgwater, were appointed to appraise the Estate of Jonathan Cary, late of Bridgwater, yeoman, on 6 Apr. 1813. The Inventory of the Estate of Deacon Jonathan Cary, late of Bridgwater, was dated 9 Apr. 1813, his Real Estate totaled $4371.66, and his personal estate totaled $137.98. Moses Cary, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 3 Oct. 1814.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 44, p. 518-520, from FHL microfilm #0550903, and Vol. 45, p. 504-505.

 

 

Will of Mary Cary of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1802) *

                In the name of God amen the fifth day of April in the Year of our Lord one Thousand eight hundred & two, I Mary Cary of Bridgwater in the County of Plymouth & Commonwealth of Massachusetts in America Widow being in sound mind & memory thanks be to God therefor, calling to mind the mortality of my Body knowing that it is appointed for all Men once to die, do make & ordain this my last Will & Testament that is to say principally & first of all, I give & recommend my Soul into the Hands of God who gave it hoping for Pardon & Acceptance through the Merits & Mediation of his Son, & my Body I recommend to the Earth to be buried in a decent manner at the discretion of my Executor hereafter named and touching such worldly Estate wherewith it hath pleased God to bless me with in this Life, I give & demise & dispose of in the following manner & Form.—

                Imprimis I give & bequeath to my four Daughters, to wit, Mary Keith, Mehitabel Dike, Martha Keith & Rhoda Wild, all my Lands consisting of about sixty five Acres situate in the north precinct of Bridgwater adjoining to Easton Line & on the south side of the Road from Jacob Rickards in Bridgwater to George Monks in Easton, and one Acre & one third of an Acre of Cedar Swamp situate in Easton in a Swamp there known by the name of Cooper’s Swamp, bounded on Swamp owned by Nehemiah Howard & others, I also give to my four Daughters aforesaid, all my personal property of every kind & description (except my Clock) to be divided among them equally. –

                Item I give to my Son Howard Cary (whom I constitute Executor of this my last will and Testament) my Clock.—

                I order my just debts funeral Expences & charges of settling my Estate be paid by my four Daughters —

                And I do utterly disallow & disannul all & every former Will, Testament, Legacy & Bequest & Executor by me in any ways before named, willed or bequeathed ratifying & confirming this & no other to be my last will & Testament— In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand & Seal the day & year above written.—

Signed sealed pronounced & declared

by the said Mary Cary to be her last Will

& Testament in the presence of us the Subscribers                                                       Mary Cary                                         (seal)

                Daniel Ames

                Benjamin Ames

                Daniel Howard Jur.

 

Presented for probate on 5 June 1815 by Howard Cary Esqr., the Executor therein named, and proved by Daniel Ames and Benjamin Ames, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Howard Cary, the before named Executor.

No inventory of her estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 47, p. 209-210, from FHL microfilm #0550904.

 

 

Will of Recompence Cary of Bridgewater, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1750) *

In the name of God Amen the 25th. Day of June Anno Domini 1750 I Recompenc Cary of Bridgwater in the County of Plymouth in New England being weak in Bodey but of Perfect minde & memory Thank be to God therefor Calling To minde the mortallity of my Bodey Do Make and ordain my Last will & Testament Princapally & first of all I give & Recommend my Soul into the hands of God that Gave it and my Bodey I Commit To the Earth To be Decanly Buried at the Descrescon of my Executor hereafter named And as Touching my worldly Estate I give Demise & dispose there of as followeth –

Imprimus I Give & bequeth to Sarah My well Beloved wife all my hous hold goods or Indore moveables to be wholly at her Dispose and further for her Support in the Time of her Widdowhood I Give her a Cow a horse & five Sheep obligeing my Son Zebulon Cary To Keep them Sumer & winter I give her also ye. use of westerly half of My Dwelling house & a Right in the Seller and I further oblige my Said Son to Provid for her Eight Bushells Indian Corn & two bushells Rye yearly & sutable Fire wood

I Give To my three Daughters Viz Sarah Howard Mary Crossman & Abigl Cary to them their heirs and Assignes for Ever a Sertain Pice of Land on the west Side of the Road begining at a Stake nere the South west Corner of Capt. Aldins new feild and Runing Northerly to the Extent of my Land & Extending westerly till it Comes over the brook that Runs out of the Pine Swamp and extending South so far as to make up the Quantity of Thirty Acres with a Strait line to the Sake first mentioned To be Equally Devided amongst Them I also give To said Abigail one Cow. Item I give To my Son Ichabod Cary his heirs and assignes for Ever the Land on which he now Dwels as it is Described in his Deed and also a Pece of Land Joining on the South Side of the Rode Six Rods wide on the South End & Ten Rod wide by the Rode also a Pece of land on the Esterly Side of Rode that goes To the Saw mill Sixteen Rods Wide at the South end & forty Rod wide at the North End Reserving the Crop this year and also a Twenty acre wood lot that was Drawn on Lacuh. Purchas Right also half my Meddow and upland at Snels meddow Also a quarter of a Purchas Right in undevided land.

Item I give my Son Simeon Cary his heirs and assigns forever Fifteen acres of my Twenty acre Lot in the Pine Swamp

Item I give my Son Jonathan Cary his heirs & Assignes for Ever five Acres of My Twenty acre lot in the Pine Swamp

Item I Give To my Son Zebulon Cary whome I Constitute and ordain my Sole Executor of this my last will & Testament to him his heirs and Assigns for Ever my home Land & buldings & other lands and Rights in lands not herein otherwise Disposed of also my Pockett Book Cash Cattle & other Personal Estate not other ways Disposed of obliging him To Pay My funeral Charges and all my Just Debts

Signed Sealed Pronounced &                                                                                            Recompenc Cary                             (seal)

Declared by the Recompence Cary

to be his Last will & Testament

In Presenc of us . . .

Joseph Edson

John Rickards

Joseph Rickards

 

Presented for probate on 4 June 1759, and proved by John Rickards and Josiah Rickards.

 

To Jonathan Cary of Bridgwater in the County of Plimouth Yeoman Greeting

Whereas Recompence Cary Late of Bridgwater aforesaid Yeoman Deceased on the twentyfifth Day of June Anno Domini 1750 made his last will & Testament in writeing and Signed, Sealed, and Delivered the same Before sufficient witnesses by which will after Gifts and Legacies then made appointed his son Zebulon Cary Executor of the same Will but he dying Before the Testator and the same will and Testament having been Proved & approved Administration Cum Testamento Annexo is therefor by these Presents Committed unto you the said Jonathan Cary of all and singular the Goods, Chattels, Rights and Credits of the said Deceasd. well and Faithfully to Dispose of the same according to Law and the Direction of said will… In Testimony whereof I have hereunto set my Hand and the Seal of the said Court of Probate Dated at Plimouth the fourth Day of June Annoque Domini 1759

                                                                                                                                                Jno. Cushing

 

The Inventory of the Estate Real & Personal of Deacon Recompenc Cary late of Bridgwater, was appraised by Ebenezer Aldin, Isaac Allen, and Josiah Richards on 18 June 1759, but not totaled, his lands with the buildings and half a purchase right valued at £578. Jonathan Cary, the Administrator, gave his oath to the inventory on 2 July 1759.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 15, pp. 256-257, 148, 236, from FHL microfilm #0551543.

 

 

Will of Sally Cary of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1837) *

                Be it known that I Sally Cary of Bridgewater in the County of Plymouth and commonwealth of Massachusetts, being of sound mind and memory do make, publish and declare this my last Will and testament in manner & form as follows.

First  I give and bequeath unto Betsey C. Gilbert widow of Nathaniel Gilbert deceased, and to her heirs and assigns, one hundred and forty Dollars, Also a Brittania Tea Pot a Silver Spoon and a stone ring that ware given to me by Caleb Cary deceased, also one third part of my household furniture and clothing.

Second,  I give and bequeath unto my niece Betsey Snow of Raynham, and to her heirs and assigns One hundred Dollars – One Silver Spoon and my Gold necklace. Also one third part of my household furniture and clothing.

Third  I give and bequeath unto Mercy Snow wife of my nephew William Snow one third part of my household furniture and clothing.

Fourth.  I give and bequeath unto my said nephew William Snow and to his heirs and assigns all the residue and remainder of my estate whether Real, Personal or mixed after the payment of my Just debts, funeral charges and the aforesaid legacies.

Lastly. I hereby constitute and appoint the said William Snow my sole Executor to this my last Will and Testament hereby revoking and annulling all former Wills by me made.

                In witness whereof I do hereunto set my hand and seal this nineteenth day of December in the year one thousand eight hundred and thirty seven

                                                                                                                                                Sally Cary                                          (seal)

Signed, Sealed, published and declared by the said Sally Cary to be her last will and Testament in the presence of us, who at her request and in her presence have hereunto set our names as witnesses thereto

                Artemas Hale

                Edward Mitchell

                Richard Seaver

 

Presented for probate on the first Monday of December 1838 by William Snow, the Executor therein named, and proved by Artemas Hale and Edward Mitchell, two of the witnesses. Letters Testamentary were granted to William Snow, the Executor.

 

William Snow, of Raynham, County of Bristol, was granted Letters Testamentary on the estate of Sally Carey, late of Bridgewater, Singlewoman, on 3 Dec. 1838 with Artemas Hale and Edward Mitchell, both of Bridgewater, as sureties.

No inventory of her estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 80, p. 455-457, from FHL microfilm #0555265, and Vol. 1G, p. 337.

 

 

Will of Simeon Cary of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1795) *

In The Name of God Amen.—This seventeenth day of February, in the year of our Lord one thousand, seven hundred & ninety five I, Simeon Cary of Bridgwater, in the County of Plymouth, Comwealth Massachusetts, New England, being of perfect mind & memory, & mindful of the mortality of my body, do make and ordain, this my last will & testament.—I recommend my soul to the mercy of God and my body, I bequeath to the earth, to be interred in decent christian burial, at the discretion of the Executor & Executrix of this my last will & testament

1.st– I order that all my just debts & burial charges & charges of settling my estate, shall be paid at the expence of my estate, by the Executor & Executrix of this my last will & testament.

2.dly– I Give and bequeath to my wife Mary Cary, the improvement of one third part of my lands & buildings on the same; the use of the well of water, to be in said improvement.– And I do also give her, the use of one half my Pew, in the public meeting in the north Parish Bridgwater aforesaid; which improvement she is to enjoy while she is my widow.— I do likewise give her my houshold goods, furniture and utensills, one half my books, a side saddle, two Cows, one swine, & while she is my widow she shall have the use of an horse, provided & supported for her by my son Howard Cary when she shall desire it, my desk & my chest in which I keep my writings, & three quarters of my Casks, one excepted.— I also order that my son Howard Cary provide wood sufficient to keep one fire, and cut it at the door suitable for the fire for my wife, Mary Cary, as long as she remains my widow.–

3.ly– I Give and bequeath to my son Howard Cary, & to his heirs & assigns forever, my lands & buildings, on the same, my Pew in the lower part of the public meeting house in the north Parish of Bridgwater, and my right in a Pew in the galley of sd meeting house, reserving the improvement of one third part sd lands & buildings & one half the lowermost Pew in the meeting house aforesaid for the use of my wife Mary Cary while she shall be my widow. I do likewise give him my horses & my Cattle, my sheep and swine, excepting one, and half my books, my desk & chest, with all my notes & writings, my watch sword, Cutlass, bayonets, & guns, my husbandry tools, utensills & carriages, three quarters of my Casks, my saddles, excepting my side saddle, my bridles, excepting one, my Carpentry & joinery tools, my Cyder Mill & Cyder Press, my horse stable near the public meeting house aforesaid, my wearing apparell of all kinds, and Military Accoutraments, besides those already mentioned, and my Iron Chimney Cranes.—

4.ly– I Give and bequeath to my Daughters Molly Keith, Mehitable Dike, Martha Keith, and Rhoda Wild Five Dollars a piece, to be paid in one year from my decease.

5ly– Every other part of my estate not already disposed of in this my last will & testament of which I may be seized at the time of my decease I do give and bequeath to my son Howard Cary and to his heirs and assigns forever –

6.ly– And I hereby constitute my said wife Mary Cary, and my said son Howard Cary, to be Executrix & Executor of this my last will & testament; and, I do utterly revoke & disallow all former wills, testaments, bequeathments, legacies & Executors, by me before made, willed bequeathed, appointed & ordained, ratifying & confirming this & no other to be my last will & testament. and.— In Witness of the same, I have set my hand & affixed my seal to this my last will & testament, this day of the date afore-mentioned.

Signed, Sealed and Declared by

the said Simeon Cary, to be his                                                                                         Simeon Cary                      (seal)

last will & testament, in the pre-

sence of us.—

                Daniel Ames

                Job Ames

                Mehitabel Ames

 

Whereas, I the subscriber, am appointed, Executrix, jointly with my son Howard Cary, who is appointed Executor to the last will & testament of Simeon Cary, late of Bridgwater, deceased, and as I am something unable to attend on the business, I wish to have my son Howard Cary appointed sole Executor—

Bridgwater February 26th 1802 –                                                                                     Mary Cary

 

Presented for probate on 6 Apr. 1802 by Howard Cary, one of the Executors therein named, and proved by Daniel Ames & Job Ames, two of the witnesses, who also served as sureties on his bond. No inventory was recorded for his estate.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 38, p. 22-23, from FHL microfilm #0550720.

 

 

Will of Williams Cary of Brockton, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1879) *

I Williams Cary of Brockton in Plymouth County in the State of Massachusetts, Yeoman, being of sound and disposing mind and memory, do this twenty seventh day of January A. D. Eighteen hundred and seventy nine make publish and declare this my last will and testament.

After the payment of all my just debts and charges, I dispose of all my estate as follows, to wit.

I give to my beloved wife Huldah J. Cary all my household furniture, of every sort, except what is herein specifically devised, all my tools, implements and vehicles of every description and all the provisions on hand at the time of my decease – and the firewood and shingles- I also give to my said wife the use and improvement of a lot of land with the buildings thereon where I reside bounded South by Cary Street by a line extending from the end of the wall at the South West corner of the yard in front of my barn Easterly to a line at right angles with Cary Street which shall embrace the principal fruit-trees East of my dwelling house and extending back Northward the same width to the woods for and during the period of her natural live—and she shall claim no dower –

I also give to my said wife the use of my pew in the First Parish Church for and during her lifetime; and after her decease I give said pew to the First Parish in North Bridgewater (now Brockton)

I also give to the Executor herein-after named and to his successors and assigns, the sum of three hundred dollars, ($300.) in trust nevertheless, to invest the same in a mortgage or some safe stocks, and the income, interest and dividends thereof, to pay annually after my decease to my said wife during her life time—and after her decease the principal sum after deducting a fair compensation for the trustees shall go to my residuary legatees below referred to.

I also give to my said wife the right to take sufficient fuel for her own use from my woodland—while she continues to occupy my homestead, and she is to make no claim on my estate beside.

2d I give to each of the children of my deceased sister Rhoda Hayward who shall survive me, the sum of five dollars $5.00.

3d To Mrs Mehitable Fitz of Campello who used to live with me, I give the sum of three hundred dollars $300.

4th I give to Nahum Dickerman of Brockton who used to live with me the sum of three hundred dollars ($300.) and also the secretary in my front room which was my first wife’s.

5th. I give and bequeath to Sarah Edson wife of Hiram Edson – my neighbor, a strip of land adjoining the homestead on the East, measuring one rod on Cary Street and extending Northward the same width sixteen rods – to have and to hold to her the said Sarah Edson her heirs and assigns forever.

6th To my nephew Daniel Williams Cary – a deaf mute I give the sum of one hundred dollars. $100.

7th To the sons of my brother Zenas; Franklin L. Cary and Howard M. Cary, I give to each of them, the sum of fifty dollars. $50.

I hereby authorize empower and direct the Executor hereof to sell any and all my real estate for the payment of said legacies at private sale or at public auction as to him shall seem advisable – and to make, execute acknowledge and deliver a deed or deeds of the same – and all said legacies shall be paid within one year after the decease of my said wife, if she shall survive me. Should I not shingle the roof of my homestead buildings before my decease I direct the Executor hereof to have them newly shingled with the shingles I have provided for that purpose.

All the rest, residue and remainder of my estate after the decease of my wife – real personal and mixed – of which I shall die seized or possessed, or to which I may be entitled, I give devise and bequeath to my nephew Howard Cary of Brockton and to such children of my deceased sister Polly Dunham as shall survive me, to be equally divided between them, share and share alike, to have and to hold to them, their heirs and assigns forever.

  I hereby appoint my nephew Worthy C. Dunham of Abington to be the Executor of this my will.

  In witness whereof I hereunto set my hand the day and year first above written.

                                                                                                                                                                Williams Cary.

Signed & declared by the said William Cary as and for his last will in our presence, who in his presence and at his request and in presence of each other hereto set our hands as witnesses.

Witnesses.                                                                                                                                             Amasa Edson

                                                                                                                                                                Luther H. Hollis

                                                                                                                                                                J. R. Perkins

 

Worthy C. Dunham, of Abington, was confirmed as executor of the last will and testament of Williams Cary, late of Brockton, on 24 Mar. 1879, with George W. Pratt and Austin Cobb, both of Abington, as sureties.

 

Isaac H. Harris, Amasa Edson and Luther Shepardson were appointed to appraise the estate of Williams Cary, late of Brockton, on 29 Mar. 1879. No values were recorded for his real estate or personal estate. Worthy C. Dunham, the executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 29 Mar. 1879.

 

To the Honourable the Judge of the Probate Court in and for the County of Plymouth.

Respectfully represents Worthy C. Dunham that it is inconvenient for him any longer to serve as Executor of the will of Williams Cary late of Brockton deceased, he therefore respectfully resigns said trust, and asks to have his resignation accepted.

                                                                                                Worthy

                Commonwealth of Massachusetts,

Plymouth ss.  At a Probate Court holden at Hanover in said County on the fourth Monday of June A.D. 1880 it appearing that Worthy C. Dunham has resigned the trust of executor of the will of Williams Cary, it is therefore ordered that said resignation be accepted.

                Wm H. Wood, Judge of Probate Court

 

Charles A. Dunham of Riverhead in the County of Suffolk and State of New York was appointed as administrator with the will annexed of the estate of Williams Cary, late of Brockton, the executor Worthy C. Dunham having resigned, on 27 Sept. 1880, with Lucius Faxon and Charles S. Loud, of Abington, County of Plymouth, as sureties.

 

Thaddeus E. Gifford, of Brockton, was appointed as administrator with the will annexed of the estate of Williams Cary, late of Brockton, Worthy C. Dunham, the executor, having resigned, and Charles A. Dunham, the administrator de bonis non with the will annexed being deceased, on 24 Feb. 1885, with Isaac Harris and Isaac H. Harris, both of Brockton, as sureties.

 

Adoniram J. Loring, Luther S. Shepardson and Isaac H. Harris were appointed to appraise the estate of Williams Cary, late of No. Bridgewater now Brockton, on 24 Feb. 1885. His real estate was valued at $2225, and his personal estate totaled $471.85. Thaddeus E. Gifford, the administrator with the will annexed, gave his oath to the inventory on 22 May 1885.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 143, p. 76-78 (will), from FHL microfilm #0556649, Vol. 149, p. 58 (letters testamentary), from FHL microfilm #0556652, Vol. 145, p. 198 (first inventory), from FHL microfilm #0556650, Vol. 143, p. 198 (resignation), from FHL microfilm #0556649, Vol. 151, p. 339 (first administration), from FHL microfilm #0556653, Vol. 157, p. 186 (second administration), from FHL microfilm #0556656, and Vol. 163, p. 186 (second inventory), from FHL microfilm #0556659.

 

 

Will of Zackariah Cary of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1788) *

In the Name of God Amen–This sixteenth day of August in the year of our Lord One thousand seven hundred & eighty eight, I Zechariah Cary of Bridgwater in the county of Plymouth & Commonwealth of Massachusetts, tanner, being far advanced in age, but of perfect mind and memory, calling to mind the mortality of my body, do make and ordain this my Last will and testament, that is to say, first of all & principally, I Give & recommend my soul into the hands of almighty God who Gave it, and my body I recommend to the earth to be buried in decent christian burial at the discretion of my Executor, nothing doubting but that at the general resurrection I shall recieve the same again by the mighty power of God, and touching such worldly estate as it hath pleased God to bless me with in this Life, I Give, demise & dispose of the same in the following manner and form.~

Imprimis – I Give Demise and bequeath to Susanna my well beloved wife, the one half of all my Indoor moveables for her forever Likewise I Give and bequeath to my said wife Susannah one Quarter part of the produce of my farm to be delivered to her yearly by my son Daniel free from all charge so Long as she continues my widow, also I Give and bequeath to my said wife Susannah one Cow over & above the indoor moveables and Quarter part of the produce, and it is my will that the said Cow should be kept Good upon the farm and continued to her while she remains my widow –Furthermore I Give and bequeath to my said wife Susannah the use and improvement of one half of my Dwelling House and seven cords of wood to be yearly drawn to the door & cut fit for the fire so Long as she remains my widow ~

Item – I Give and bequeath to my son Ezra Cary Seventy three pounds six shillings and eight pence Lawful money, which together with twenty six pounds thirteen shillings & four pence he has already recieved makes up the sum of one Hundred Pounds, which I think is his just part, and it is my will that he the said Ezra Cary Settle an Account which my son Daniel Cary hath against him for sundry things he the said Daniel has paid him the said Ezra already towards the said sum of Seventh three pounds six shillings & eight pence, and I do hereby require my son Daniel Cary to pay to my Son Ezra Cary the abovesaid sum of seventy three pounds six shillings & eight pence (after subtracting therefrom my Son Daniel’s Account against him the sd. Ezra Cary) that is, the remainder of the said Seventy three pounds 6/8, after Subtracting my Son Daniel’s Account against him, I order my Son Daniel Cary to pay to my Son Ezra Cary within four years after my decease, but if my Son Ezra should bring in any account against my Estate, it is my will that such account (if paid by my Executor) be Reducted out of what I have herein Given my Son Ezra, and he recieve so much Less of the abovesaid sum Given him as his Account shall amount to

Item – I Give and bequeath to my Son Luther Cary one Hundred pounds Lawful money, he the said Luther Settling an Account with my Son Daniel for sundry things which he the said Luther has already recieved of my son Daniel in part pay towards the said sum of One Hundred pounds, and I do hereby Order my Executor to pay to my son Luther what shall remain due to him of the abovesaid sum (upon settlement with my son Daniel) within four years after my decease.~

Item – I Give and bequeath to my three Sons Ezra, Daniel and Luther my wearing apparell, to be equally divided between them ~

Item – I Give and bequeath to my Daughter Susannah Brett, and to the female Heirs of my Daughter Mehitable Sylvester deceased the Other half of my Indoor moveables not before disposed of, to be equally divided, the one half thereof to my Daughter Brett and the Other half to the female Heirs of my Daughter Sylvester –and I Likewise order my Executor to pay twenty Shillings to my Daughter Brett and twenty Shillings to the Heirs of my Daughter Sylvester deceased, within one year after my decease

Item – I Give and bequeath to my Son Daniel Cary all the Rest and Residue of my estate not already disposed of (after my just debts & funeral charges are paid) viz~. the one half of my Dwelling House the whole of my Barn, Corn Barn, tan yard & Buildings thereon, my Pew in the meeting House, Likewise the other half of my Dwelling House after my wife has done with it, together with all my Real estate, whether, woodland tillage, pasture or mowing Land or Orcharding, to him the said Daniel Cary, his Heirs and assigns forever, Likewise I Give and bequeath to my son Daniel all the Rest and Residue of my personal estate not already disposed of

Lastly – I do hereby constitute, make and ordain my Son Daniel Cary my Sole Executor of this my Last will and testament, and do hereby disannull and revoke all other wills & testaments, Ratifying this and confirming this and no other to be my Last will & testament — In Witness whereof I have hereunto Set my hand and Seal the day and year above written ~

Signed, Sealed, Published, Pronounced &

declared by the said Zackary Cary to be his                                                                   Zackariah Cary                                (seal)

Last will & testament in presence of us

                Samuel Cheever

                James Perkins

                Mathew Packard

 

The Last will & testament of Zackariah Cary, late of Bridgwater, Tanner, was presented for probate on 6 Oct. 1788 by Daniel Cary, the Executor therein named, and proved by Samuel Cheever, James Perkins and Mathew Packard, the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Daniel Cary, Gentm.. the before named executor, with James Perkins, yeoman, and Mathew Packard, yeoman, all of Bridgwater, as sureties.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 30, p. 436-439, from FHL microfilm #0550716.

 

 

Will of John Caster of Redfield, Oswego County, New York (1867) *

                I, John Caster of the town of Redfield in the County of Oswego and State of New York, considering the uncertainty of life, and being of sound mind and memory, do make this my last will and testament in words and manner following Viz.

                To my wife Esther Caster if she shall outlive me, I give the whole of my real or landed estate in whatever locality it may be, and also all my personal property and effects of every kind and nature, all to be at her disposal and use for a living and the necessary expenses for our children after my death, and further, she my said wife, if she shall remain my widow until our youngest child becomes of age Shall have the full right to divide all my said property then remaining among our (hers and my) children according to her best judgment of equity in the case, and at any time or times she may think best and proper Subject only however to the above provision relative to her marriage after my death, and in that case if she my said wife shall again marry after my death and before the distribution of my said property to our said children after the youngest of them becomes of of age then and in that case my said property shall fall under the charge of the Executors by me herein named, or in case of their death or disability to serve, then the execution or fulfillment of this my said will according to the reasonable and true intent of the same shall take the usual course of law in such case made and provided by the appointment of administrator or administrators as the case may be.

                I appoint my said wife to be my executrix of this my will together with my son Henry and John H. Cory.

                I hereunto this 20th day of December 1867 subscribe my hand and Set my Seal in presence of the witnesses hereto.

                                                                                                                                                John Caster                                       (seal)

                I John H. Cory in the presence and at the request of the said John Caster the testator abovesaid do hereto set my name as a Subscribing witness

                                                                                                                                                John H Cory of Sandy Creek NY

Dec 20. 1867

                I, Huldah J. Caster in the presence of and at the request of the above testator do hereto Subscribe my name as a Subscribing witness

                                                                                                                                                Huldah Jane Caster of Redfield Os Co N.Y.

 

Presented for probate on 13 Nov. 1886 by Esther Caster, the Executrix therein named, and the widow of the deceased.

 

Huldah J. Caster, now Huldah J. Giddings a subscribing witness to the last Will and Testament of John Caster late of the town of Redfield proved the will in court on 17 Dec. 1886, stating that John H. Cory is now deceased. The Last Will and Testament of John Caster late of the town of Redfield was approved on 17 Dec. 1886.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Oswego County Probate, Wills Vol. Q, p. 97-98, from FHL microfilm #0872715.

 

 

Will of Joseph Chaffee of Seekonk, Bristol County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1821) *

Be it remembered that I Joseph Chaffe of Seekonk in the County of Bristol and Commonwealth of Massachusetts being of sound Mind and memory Blessed be Almighty God for the same do make and Publish this my last will and Testament in manner and form following (that is to say) first I Give and bequeath unto my well be loved wife Huldah Chaffe the use and improvement of one third part of all my Real and Personal Estate except my household goods which is to be the whole to her use and improvement during her natural life ~~~

I give and bequeath unto my son Joseph Chaffe if living one Dollar and also unto my son William Chaffe fifty Dollars also to my Daughter Charlotte Arnold the wife of John Arnold Twenty Dollars also to my Daughter Huldah Peck* wife of Benjamin Peck Twenty Dollars Also to my Daughter Lucy Smith wife of Joseph Smith five Dollars and also to my Daughter Martha Mason wife of Garner Mason five Dollars the aforesaid legacies to be paid by my Executor hereafter named in one year after my decease ~~~

I give and bequeath unto my sons Walker Chaffe and Wilder Chaffe all the Remainder of my Estate both Real and personal except my household goods and also reserving to my said wife the use and improvement of the one third part as heretofore given – I give and bequeath unto my foure Daughters herein named all my household goods after the decease of my wife to be equally Divided between them or their heirs ~~ And I do hereby appoint my son Walker Chaffe Sole Executor of this my last will and Testament revoking all former wills – In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and Seal this Ninth Day of August in the year of our Lord One Thousand Eight Hundred & twenty one

                                                                                                            Joseph Chafee

Signed Sealed and declared by the abovenamed Joseph Chaffee his last will and Testament who at his request and in his presence have subscribed our names as Witnesses to the same

Caleb Abell                                                                                           April 5th 1842

Solomon Peck                                                                                           approved

Solomon Peck Jr.

 

The Bond of Walker Chaffee, executor, was dated 5 Apr. 1842, and the will was proved the same day.

 

* Transcribed from Bristol County Probate File “Joseph Chaffee, Seekonk, 1842” from FHL microfilm #0572206. The P of the name Peck was very oddly written, and the name could have been read as Fish or Rich instead of Peck, but the Seekonk Vital Records gives his name as Peck.

 

 

Will of Elizabeth Chandler of Duxbury, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1728) *

The Last Will and Testament of the Widow Elizabeth Chandler of Duxboró.  I being ill & weak & not knowing the day of my Death & yet of sound understanding & good Memory do thus Will my Estate to be Disposed of after my Death. In the name of God amen. I Give my Soul to God my Body I commit to the Earth to be decently buried & do will that my Debts & funeral charges be paid before any Legacies – Itm I Give to my Daughters Mary Keturah & Elizabeth all my Wearing Cloaths Woollen & Linnen equally between them there Only my best Riding hood & my Scarf to Elizabeth more than the other two –

I do Give to my Son Samuel One pair of Sheets and twenty Shillings –

I do Give to my Son Joseph one pair of Sheets & my Tankard & my Bible

I do Give to my Son John my Chest of Drawers & one pair of Sheets & my Silver Spoon and twenty Shillings – I do Give to my Son Benjamn Twenty Shillings I do Give to my Son Joseph Twenty Shillings more than what is above written – I do Will that after my Debts & funeral Charges are paid if any of my Estate remain after ye first Division Three fourth Parts of it be equally Divided betwixt my Three Daughters & the other fourth Part half of it to Deborah Simmons the Daughter of Isaac Simmons and the Other half to Isaac Simmons junr. & Sar B Simmons his Sister equally betwixt them two – I do Constitute & Appoint my Son John Chandler to be my Executr of this my last Will and Testament ~ And so desiring to live in peace & that my Children may have peace when I am dead I do hereunto Set my hand & Seal this twenty second day of April in the Year of Our Lord One thousand Seven hundred & Twenty eight~

In Presence of these

Witnesses

The Mark + of Ephm Norcott                                                                            The Mark of + Elizabeth Chandler                  (seal)

Moses Simons

Philip Delano –

 

Proved on 5 Dec. 1732 by Ephraim Norcott, Moses Simons and Philip Delano. John Chandler, son of the deceased, approved as Executor of the estate of Elizabeth Chandler, late of Duxborough on 8 Dec. 1732.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of the Widow Elizabeth Chandler, late of Duxborough was appraised on 6 Dec. 1732 by Philip Delano, Edw. Arnold and Moses Simmons, but not totaled, no real estate. John Chandler, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 7 Dec. 1732.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 6, p. 259-261, from FHL microfilm #0550512.

 

 

Will of John Chandler of Duxbury, Plymouth County, Massachusetts Bay (1780) *

In the name of God Amen – I John Chandler of Duxborough in the county of Plymouth in the Government of the Massachusetts Bay in New-England, yeoman in the seventh day of June Seventeen hundred & Eighty being under bodily Infirmities but of perfect mind & memory and calling to mind the mortality of my body, do make & ordain this to be my Last will & testament, that is to say, first of all I commend my soul into the hand of God who Gave it & my body I recommend to the earth to be buried in a decent manner at the discretion of my Executor herein after named and as to my worldly Estate, wherewith it hath pleased God to bless me with in this Life I Give & devise in the following manner & form

First – I Give to my son Abel all my real Estate obliging him to find my daughter Candace a fire room in the house & fire wood at the door for a fire summer & winter, also to keep a Cow summer & winter for her so Long as she shall Live unmarried, & I Give to my daughter Candace a Bed and Bedding for sd. Bed – I also Give to her one Cow

I Give to my Son Abel my Team & all my farming utensills & one Bed & Bedding & one Cow – Obliging him to pay all my Debts and funeral charges & all the Rest of my Estate not herein yet disposed of I Give to my Son Abel & my three daughters viz Rebecca Oldham wife of David Oldham & Candace Chandler & Elisabeth Oldham wife of John Oldham to be divided equally between them – & I do hereby constitute & appoint my Son Abel Chandler to be my Sole Executor of this my Last will & testament, hoping that this may stand, & be performed according to the true intent & meaning hereof.

Signed Sealed & declared by the abovesaid

John Chandler to be his Last will & testa-                                                                     John Chandler                  (seal)

ment in the day & year above expressed

In presence of

                Jacob Weston

                Abigail Freeman

                Judah Delano

 

Presented for probate on 6 Nov. 1780 by Abel Chandler, the Executor therein named, and proved by Jacob Weston and Judah Delano, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Abel Chandler, the before named Executor, with Judah Delano and Jacob Weston, both of Duxbury, as sureties. No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

We the subscribers having agreed with one another & with Abel Chandler Executor on the Estate of our Hond. father John Chandler Late of Duxbury decêd & have divided & Recd. each & every one of us our parts in full, of Abel Chandler sd. Executor, as was Given to us in the Last will & testament of our Hond. father John Chandler – In witness whereof we hereunto Set our hands                                                                                                                                    David Oldham

                                                                                                                                                Rebecca Oldham

                                                                                                                                                Candace Chandler

                                                                                                                                                John Oldham

                                                                                                                                                Elisabeth Oldham

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 25, p. 555-556, from FHL microfilm #0550713.

 

 

Will of Jonathan Chandler of Bridgewater, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1760) *

In the Name of God Amen.  The Twentyeth Day of December Anno Domini 1760

I Jonathan Chandler of Bridgwater in the County of Plymouth in New England Yeoman being of a Sound and Disposing Mind and Memory thanks be to God for it but knowing it is appointed for all Men once to Die do ordain & make this my last Will and Testament Principaly and first of all I give & Recomend my Soul into the Hands of the greate God that gave it hoping through the merrits mediation & Intercession of Jesus Christ to obtain the Pardon of all my Sins and Inherit eternal life and my Body I comit to the earth to be decently Buried at the discretion of my Executor hearafter Named trusting by the Power of God Almighty to Receive the Same again at the Resurrection & as to my Worldly Estate I give and dispose thereof in the folloing Manner Namly my Will is that all my Just debts and funeral Charges be Paid in a Convenient time After my decease –

Item I give and Bequeath unto my Well beloved Wife Abthiah one Third of the Improvment of my Real Estate Including a Conveniency in my Dwelling House for her to live in during her natural life But in case she should Mary again my Will is that she Quit that Conveniency in my Dwelling House, Further I give unto her all the Moveable Estate she Brought with her to be Intirely at her dispose Also I give unto her the Improvement of one Third of all the rest of my Personal Estate during her Widowood

Item I give and Bequeath unto my Daughter Betty wife to Joseph Hervey Junr. one Third Part of all my estate Real & Personal to her & to her Heirs forever after my Wifes decease –

Item I give unto my Grandson Israel Keith the other two Thirds of my Real & Personal Estate not before disposed of to be his his Heirs and Assigns forever Also I give unto Israel Keith my wearing Cloaths and farming Tools –

Item I do hearby Nominate and Apoint my Grandson Israel Keith to be my Sole Executor of this my last Will and Testament and I desire him to take upon him that Trust In Witness whereof I have hereunto Set my Hand & Seal the day and Year aforsd.

Sign’d Seal,d & Publish,d                                                                                                  Jonathan Chandler                         (seal)

pronounc’d & declar,d

by the sd. Jonathan Chandler

to be his Last Will & Testament

In Presence of us –

John Washburn

Abraham Washburn

Eliphalet Washburn

 

Presented for probate on 10 Feb. 1775 by Israel Keith the Executor therein named, and proved by John Washburn and Abraham Washburn, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Israel Keith, the before named Executor.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Jonathan Chandler, late of Bridgwater, was appraised, but not dated, by John Washburn, Abraham Washburn, and Simeon Leonard, totaled £202.18.2 plus £13.12.2, including a small amount of real estate totaling about £164. The appraisers gave their oath to the inventory on 28 Feb. 1775, and the Administrator gave his oath to the inventory on 6 Mar. 1775.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 21, p. 645-647, from FHL microfilm #0550712.

 

 

Will of Joseph Chandler of Duxbury, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1721) *

In ye. Name of God amen: ye. twenty first Day of aprill in the year of our Lord one thousand seven Hundred twenty & one I Joseph Chandler of Duxboro. in ye. County of Plymouth in New: England Being weak in Body but of perfect mind & memory thanks be given unto God therefore Calling to mind ye. mortality of my Body & knowing that it is appointed for all men once to Dye Do make & ordain this my last will & Testament: that is to say Principally & first of all I give & Recomend my Soul into ye. Hands of God that gave it & my Body to a Decent Burial at the discretion of my Executor nothing doubting but at ye. General Resurrection I shall Receive ye. same again by ye. Almighty Power of God & as Touching Such worldly Estate wherewith it hath Pleased God to Bless me in this Life I Give Demise & Dispose of ye. same In ye. following manner and Forme

Imprimis I give & Bequeath unto my son Joseph Chandler to Him and His Heir: all my out Lands in ye. Town of Duxboro. & ye. one half of my meadow at little wood Island & all my meadow at Gottom so called in Duxboro. aforesd. & my share in ye. Beach & ye. one half of my Right in ye. Great Cedar Swamp & all my Cooper Tools & ye. one half of ye. Smiths Tools & ye. anvil that he hath in his Possession. Item I give & Bequeath unto my Grandson John Chandler all that Part of my Land at Home on ye. westerly side of ye. way that Leads to ye. meeting House Reserving fire wood for my Wife & my Daughter Sarah Chandler & a Quarter of my meadow at little wood Island in Duxboro. & a Quarter of my Right in ye. Great Cedar Swamp & ye. other half of my Smith Tools. Item I give & Bequeath unto my Daughter Sarah Chandler my Dwelling House & ye. Land it Stands upon after my wifes decease & a Bed. Item I give & Bequeath unto my three Daughters Esther Glass, mary Bradford, & Sarah Chandler to them & their Heirs all ye. Land on ye. Easterly side of ye. way yt. leads to ye. meeting House after my wifes Decease: Item I give unto my Daughter Esher Glass a Quarter of ye. great Cedar Swamp and a Bed.

Item I give unto my Daughter in Law Elizabeth Chandler four Pounds to be Paid by my Executor in one year after my Decease & ye. House and fire wood as long as she Remains a widdow. Item I give & Bequeath unto my Dear & Loving wife Mercy all ye. Rest & Residue of my Estate, & a Quarter of ye. meadow at little wood Island as long as she lives & then to my three Daughters & ye. Improvement of ye. House & Land on ye. Easterly side of ye. way during Her Natural Life. Item by these Presents I Do Constitute & ordain my above named son Joseph Chandler Executor of this my last will & Testament & Doe hereby Revoke & disallow all former wills by me heretofore made, Confirming this & no other to be my last will & Testament. In Witness whereof I have hereunto Set my hand & seal ye. Day & year above written

Signed Sealed & Declared to be his

last will & Testament in ye. Presence                                                                              Joseph Chandler                              (seal)

of                                                  his

      Samuel Sprague, Thomas  Ɵ  Hunt

                Bethiah Sprague      mark

 

Proved on 1 Jan. 1721[/2] by Samuel Sprague, Thomas Hunt and Bethiah Sprague, the witnesses, before Isaac Winslow, Judge of Probate. Joseph Chandler ye. son of Joseph Chandler, late of Duxboro. was approved as Executor on 5 Feb. 1721[/2].

 

The Inventory of ye. Estate of Joseph Chandler Senr. late of Duxboro, was appraised on 28 Dec. 1721 by Philip Delenoe and Samuel Sprague, but not totaled, and no real estate was listed. Joseph Chandler, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 1 Jan. 1721[/2].

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 4, p. 309-311, from FHL microfilm #0550510.

 

 

Will of Samuel Chandler of Duxbury, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1742) *

In the Name of God Amen, The Seventeenth day of July in the year of our Lord One Thousand Seven hundred forty and two, I Samuel Chandler of Duxborough in the County of Plymouth in New England yeoman being very Sick & Weak but of perfect mind and memory, thanks be given unto god therefor: Calling to mind ye Mortallity of my body & knowing that it is appointed for men Once to dye do make and Ordain this my last Will and Testament that is to Say – principally and first of all I give and Recommend my Soul into the hands of God that gave it hopeing through the Merits death and passion of my Saivour Jesus Christ to have full & free pardon and forgiveness of all my Sins & to Inherit Everlasting life And my body I Committ to the Earth to be Decently buried at the Discretion of my Executor hereafter named nothing doubting but at the generall Resurrection I Shall Receive the Same Again by the Mighty power of God and as touching Such worldly Estate wherewith it hath pleased God to bless me in this life I give Demise and Dispose of ye Same in the following manner & form that is to Say

First, I will that all the Debts and duties that I do owe in Right or Conscience to any manner of person or Persons whatsoever shall be well and truly Contented and paid or ordaind to be paid in Convenient time after my Decease by my Executor hereafter named –

Item, I Give and bequeath To Margett my Dearly beloved wife the improvement of my Indore moveables or household Stuff and a Comfortable Maintenance the while she Continues my widdow that is to Say to be mantained by my Executor dureing her widdowhood –

Item, I Give to my Well beloved son Samuel Chandler Whom I Likewise Constitute make and ordain my Only and Soul Executor of this my last Will and Testament, and and Singuler my Lands Messuage and Tenements together with all my stock of Cattle horses or Swine and all the Utensils that belong to the farm Carts Plows yokes and Chains Oxen and hoes whatsoever by him by him freely to be possessed and Injoyed –

Item I give and bequeath to my wellbeloved son Thomas Chandler Thirty pounds in Passable bills of Credit on the province of the Old tenour to be paid by my Executor to my son Thomas when he Shall arrive to the age of twenty One years old. –

Item, I give to my Well beloved daughter Abigail Dellano the sum of Ten pounds in bills of Credit on the province of the Old tenour to be paid when my Executor Comes to ye. age of One and twenty years by my Executor – I give all my Indore moveables or household Stuff to my son Thomas Chandler and Abigail Dellano at my Widdows Decease, Excepting One bed, and that I give to my son Samuel Chandler, And I do hereby utterly Disallow Revoke and Disanull all other and former Wills Testaments and Legacies bequeaths and Executers by me in any ways be fore this time named Ratyfieing and Confirming this and no other to be my Last Will and Testament. – In Witness Whereof I have hereunto Set my hand and Seal the day and year above written.

Signed Sealed Published pronounced & Declared

By him the sd. Samuel Chandler as his                                                                                            his

Last Will and Testament in presence of us                                                                     Samuel   S  Chandler          (seal)

Thos. Phillips                                                                                                                                         mark

Keturah  X  Samson

Jonathan Peterson

 

Presented for probate on 2 Aug. 1742 by the Executor, and proved by Thomas Phillips and Keturah Samson, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration granted to Samuel Chandler, of Duxborough, husbandman, Sole Executor, on 2 Aug. 1742.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 9, p. 6-8, from FHL microfilm #0551533.

 

 

Will of Consider Chase of Carver, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1798) *

In the name of God Amen.— — I Consider Chase of Carver in the County of Plymouth, yeoman, being infirm in body but of sound & disposing mind & memory, do make & ordain this my last will & testament, in manner & form following, that is to say.— I Give & bequeath my soul into the hands of almighty God that gave it, and my body I recommend to the earth, to be decently interred, at the discretion of my Executor hereafter mentioned; and touching such worldly estate which it hath pleased God to bless me with, I will & bequeath, in the following manner—vizt.—

Imprimis.—I will & bequeath to my beloved wife Molly, all the moveable estate that she brought me when I married her, which is not consumed by wear; and also the improvement of one Cow & four sheep, so long as she shall remain my widow; and also the improvement of the whole of my Real Estate that I shall hereafter give to my son Lewis Chase, so long as she shall remain my widow & no longer.

Item—I will & bequeath to my beloved Son Levi Chase, a lot of land, bounded, beginning at the easterly corner of the old part of ye dwelling I now live in, thence north, eighty three degrees easterly, fourteen rods to a Cherry tree, thence south, forty five degrees, east ‘till it comes to the said Levi’s other land, thence by his other land to the bound first mention.— And also, one half of my cedar swamp and also, one half of a ten acre lot of improved upland, lying between Nathl. Shearman’s house & the road that leads from Plymton to Plymouth, and also, one third of my wearing apparell & one third of my moveable estate & Stock that is not heretofore disposed of.—All the above premises, I give & bequeath to my son Levi & to his heirs & assigns, provided he, the said Levi, shall pay or cause to be paid to his sisters, the sum of Thirty Seven Dollars & Fifty Cents.—

Item—I will and bequeath to my beloved son Lewis Chase, all my real & personal estate not heretofore disposed of, the above estate, I bequeath to the said Lewis, to his heirs & assigns, provided he ye said Lewis shall pay, or cause to be paid, to his sisters, the sum of Thirty Seven Dollars & Fifty Cents—

Item—I will & bequeath to my beloved Daughter Martha Ransom, the sum of Twenty Five Dollars, to be paid by her brothers out of my estate, as heretofore directed, to be paid in cash or live stock in eighteen months after my decease, in addition to what I have heretofore given her—

Item—I will & bequeath to my beloved Daughter Sarah Dunham, the sum of Twenty Five Dollars, to be paid by her brothers out of my estate, as heretofore directed, to be paid in cash or live stock, in eighteen months after my decease, in addition to what I have given her heretofore.—

Item.—I will & bequeath to my beloved Daughter Lucy Washburn the sum of Twenty Five Dollars, to be paid to her, by her brothers, out of my estate as heretofore directed, to be paid in cash or live stock in eighteen months From or after my decease, in addition to what I have myself given her—

Item—I will & order that my Son Lewis Chase shall pay my Funeral charges & all debts that I may owe, and for him the sd Lewis to receive all debts due to me.—

        Lastly.— I do make & constitute Molly, my wife, Executrix, jointly, with Levi Chase, my son, Executor of this my last will & testament.— In witness whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and Seal this twenty Fifth day of June, one thousand Seven hundred & ninety eight.

Signed, Sealed, Published & Pronoun-                                                                           Consider Chase                                (seal)

ced by ye sd Consider Chase as his last

will & testament in ye presence of us,

who in his presence, & ye presence of each

other have hereunto subscribed our

names—

                                                Loved Lincoln

                                                Rufus Sherman jr.

                                                Nehemiah Cobb

 

Presented for probate on 17 Nov. 1801 by Molly Chase & Levi Chase, the Executors therein named, and proved by Rufus Sherman junr. & Nehemiah Cobb Esqr., two of ye witnesses.

 

Nehemiah Cobb Esqr. Nathl. Sherman & Rufus Sherman, yeomen, all of Carver, were appointed to appraise the estate of Consider Chase, late of Carver, yeoman, on 24 Nov. 1801. The Inventory of all the Estate of Consider Chase late of Carver, deceased, dated 1 Dec. 1801, totaled $1170.08, including his real estate valued at $900, and $95.93 in live stock. Levi Chase, one of the Exõrs, gave his oath to the inventory on 12 Dec. 1801.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 37, pp. 519-521, 527, from FHL microfilm #0550719.

 

 

Will of Consider Chase of Abington, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1846) *

                In the name of God, amen, I, Consider Chase of Abington, in the County of Plymouth and Commonwealth of Massachusetts, gentleman, being of sound and disposing mind and memory, do make this my last will and testament. I commit my soul to God, the author of it, and my body to the earth to be decently buried, at the discretion of my Executors hereinafter mentioned. As to my worldly estate I hereby dispose of the same, in the following manner.

                First, I give, bequeath and devise to Joseph B. Freeman one hundred dollars, from and after my decease.

                Secondly I give, bequeath, and devise to Susan Maria, daughter of said J. B. Freeman fifty dollars.

                Thirdly, I give, bequeath and devise (after the payment of my just debts) to my Mother the use of one seventh of the remainder of my estate, both real and personal, during her natural life, and at her death the said seventh part to be transferred to the children of my deceased Sister Hannah.

                Fourthly, I give, bequeath and devise, to my five Brothers, and one Sister, the remainder of my property, to be equally divided among them.

                Finally. I hereby appoint my Brother Ezra Chase, to be executor of this my last will and testament, hereby revoking all other and former wills by me made, and declaring this, and this only to be my last will and testament. In witness whereof I hereunto set my hand, this fifth day of November, in the year of our Lord, one thousand eight hundred and forty-six.

                                                                                                                                                Consider Chase                                (seal)

                Signed, published, pronounced and declared by the said Consider Chase, to be his last will and testament, in presence of the subscribers, who in his presence and at his request and in his presence, and in presence of each other, hereunto set our names as witnesses.

                                                                                                                                                James Ford Jr.

                                                                                                                                                John W. Cook

                                                                                                                                                Simeon Ryerson

 

Presented for probate on the first Monday of December 1846 by Ezra Chase, the Executor therein named, and proved by James Ford Jr., one of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters Testamentary were granted to Ezra Chase, the Executor.

 

Ezra Chase, of Middleborough, was appointed Executor of the last Will and Testament of Consider Chase, late of Abington, Gentleman, on 7 Dec. 1846, with Joseph Charles 2d, of Middleborough, Silvanus D. Chase, of Plymouth, and Eleazer C. Sherman, of Plymouth, as sureties.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Consider Chase, late of Abington, was appraised on 25 Dec. 1846 by J. B. Freeman, John Hunt, and Cornelius Dunham, his real estate valued at $950, and his personal estate totaled $1109.73. Ezra Chase, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on the first Monday of Dec. 1847.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 88, p. 542-544, with corrections from the original will in Plymouth County Probate Docket #3846, Vol. 89, p. 526, and Vol. 2H, p. 93.

 

 

Will of Levi Chase of Carver, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1820) *

In the Name of God amen – I Levi Chase of Carver in the County of Plymouth Yeoman being weak in Body but of sound Mind & Memory, blessed be Almighty God for the same do make & publish this my last Will & Testament in manner & form following (that is to say)–

        First I give and bequeath unto my beloved Wife Hannah Chase the whole of the Improvement of all my real Estate & the Improvement of my personal Estate & my household Furniture untill my youngest Child shall become of lawful Age to act for himself, provided she remains my Widow ‘till that time, if not, so long as she doth remain my Widow, after which time as aforesaid, she shall have the Improvement of one half of all my Estate both real & personal & household Stuff so long as she shall remain my Widow & in case she shall marry again she shall have free & clear, the one half of the household Goods to be at her disposal forever.—

        Secondly I give & bequeath to my seven Sons viz Levi Chase, Ezra Chase, Benjamin Chase, Consider Chase, Isaac Chase, Silvanus Chase & John Chase, all my real Estate personal Estate & household Goods that have not heretofore been disposed of, & shall not be hereafter mentioned in this Will, by their my said sons paying what I shall hereafter order them to pay to them & to their Heirs forever –

        Again I give & bequeath to My beloved Daughter Hannah Pratt fifteen Dollars in Addition to what she has heretofore had, to be paid by my aforesaid seven Sons when they shall come into possession of the one half of my Estate as aforesaid also an equal share in my household Goods with the rest of my Children —

        Again I give & bequeath to my beloved Daughter Eunice Chase one Bed Bedstead, Cord & two suits of Bedding, suitable for the same & forty five Dollars to be paid her by my aforesaid Sons, when they shall come into possession of the said half of my Estate shall come into their hands as aforesaid also an equal Share in my household Goods with the rest of my said Children & also a right to live in my House as long as she shall remain in single Life or unmarried.—

        Lastly I do hereby appoint my beloved Son Ezra Chase Executor of this my Last Will & Testament his receiving all debts due & paying all charges out of my personal Estate.—

        In Witness whereof I have hereunto Set my hand & Seal the thirteenth day of October in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred & twenty –

Signed Sealed published and declared by

the above named Levi Chase to be his last                                                                     Levi Chase                                         (seal)

Will & Testament in presence of us

who have hereunto subscribed our Names

as witnesses in presence of the Testator~

                Rufus Sherman

                Isaac Sherman

                Nehh. Cobb

 

Presented for probate on 19 Feb. 1821 by Ezra Chase, the Executor therein named, and proved by Isaac Sherman, one of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Ezra Chase, the before named Executor.

 

Rufus Sherman junr. and Nathaniel Sherman, yeoman, and Nehemiah Cobb Esqr., all of Carver, were appointed to appraise the Estate of Levi Chase, late of Carver, yeoman, on 19 Feb. 1821. Nathl. Sherman and Rufus Sherman gave their oath for the appraisement of the estate before Nehh. Cobb, Justice of the Peace on 15 Mar. 1821. The Inventory, not dated, totaled $2153.16, including his real estate valued at $1759. Ezra Chase, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 19 Mar. 1821.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 53, pp. 261-262, 295-296, from FHL microfilm #0550907.

 

 

Will of Samuel Chesman of North Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1840) *

                Be it remembered that I, Samuel Chesman, of North Bridgewater, in the County of Plymouth, yeoman, do on this eighth day of July eighteen hundred forty, make ordain and establish my last will and testament in manner and form following, to wit: —

                I give to my wife all my household furniture, and one of my cows, which she may choose.

                I order and direct that my wife shall have the use of so much of my dwelling house as may be needful and convenient for her during her life, and that for the same term of time she be well supported out of my estate as hereinafter directed.

                I give to my daughter Olive Thompson, her heirs and assigns, one half of my dwelling house, where I now live, the Southerly half, and one half of the other buildings standing on the lot of land which I herein give her. I give to said Olive, her heirs and assigns, the lot of land on which I live, containing twenty acres, more or less, including the land I own on the East side of the turnpike in front of my house. Said lot of twenty acres, more or less, being bounded South partly by an old road, and partly by a lot herein given to my daughter Betsey, wife of Barzillai King, and extending from said old road Northerly by the West side of the turnpike to Eliphalet Monk’s land; thence Westerly by a wall in said Monk’s line, to his corner; thence a strait course to the Northeast corner of a Barley field west of the meadow; thence continuing Westerly in the line of Widow Monk’s land to the middle of an old road; thence Southerly by the middle of said road to the Colony line; thence Easterly by the South line of my farm, and by the lot herein given to Mrs. King, to the corner at the Turnpike aforesaid. I also give to said Olive, one of my Cows.

                I give to my grandson Thomas Thompson, his heirs and assigns; the Northerly half of my dwelling-house, and one half part of all the other buildings standing on the lot before given to his mother, with the right and privilege of passing to and from his portion of the said buildings over and across the lot herein above given to his mother, so long as he or his heirs and assigns may choose to have said parts of buildings remain where they now stand. I also give to said Thomas his heirs and assigns, a lot of land containing twenty acres, more or less, lying in Stoughton, and bounded South by the lot herein before given to his mother, and on all other sides by lands of Eliphalet Monk, and the Widow of Elijah Monk.

                These aforesaid legacies to my daughter Olive, and to my Grandson Thomas Thompson, I give to them on condition that they furnish my wife a good and comfortable support in health and in sickness during her life, and that they keep at their joint expense the cow given to my wife, which shall be for her use and disposal. And furthermore that the said Thomas shall pay to my Grand daughter Naomi, daughter of Josiah Orcutt, One hundred dollars.

                I give to my daughter Betsey, wife of Barzillai King, her heirs and assigns, my old house to gether with the lot on which it stands, containing about one acre and a half, being enclosed by stone wall, situate on the Northerly side of the old road leading from my house to Reuben Drake’s. I also give said Betsey King, her heirs and assigns, a lot of land containing ten acres, more or less, lying west of the Old Cartway or road, leading from the Frenchs place to the old Bartlett place; bounded Easterly by the middle of said old road, and by the lot given to my daughter Olive; Northerly by the Widow Monk’s land; Westerly by William Carr’s land, and Southerly by a wall in or near the Colony line.

                I give to my Grandson, Josiah O. Battles, son of my daughter Polly, the lot of one acre, more or less, with the buildings thereon standing, situate on the Salisbury Plain in North Bridgewater, and now occupied by Ara Battles and his family. I also give to said Josiah O. Battles, a lot of Meadow land, containing two acres, more or less, adjoining the ten acre lot before given to my daughter King; and bounded Northerly by Mrs King’s lot; Southerly by a wall on the Southerly side of the meadow; Westerly by William Carr’s land and Easterly by Silvanus French’s land. Said lot lying between the Colony line and the wall.

                To have and to hold to him the said Josiah O. Battles, to and for the following use, to wit: for the sole use improvement and benefit of my daughter Polly, wife of Ara Battles, during her life; and after her decease I give the two aforesaid lots last before described, with the buildings thereon, to the children of my Daughter Polly, in equal shares; to them, their heirs and assigns forever.

                To my Grandsons Zachariah Chesman and Noah Chesman, sons of my son Noah, deceased; I give my Gurney lot, in N. Bridgewater, containing fifteen acres, more or less. To them the said Zachariah and Noah, their heirs and assigns forever; on condition that they pay twenty five dollars to my Grand daughter Lucinda Morton.

                I also give to my Grand daughter Olive, wife of Reuben Drake, her heirs and assigns, a lot of three acres of land, more or less, lying South of the lot herein before given to Josiah O. Battles, and bounded South by Reuben Drake’s land, and West by William Carr’s land; and I require said Olive to pay her sister Lucinda Morton ten dollars.

                I give to the children of my son Samuel, deceased, their heirs and assigns, my lot of fifteen acres, more or less, called the Elias Monk place, situate in Stoughton.

                If in the opinion of my grandson Josiah O. Battles, aforesaid, it should become necessary or expedient so to do, I here by authorize and empower him to sell and pass deeds to convey the lot of meadow herein before given him for the support of his mother, or for the purpose of repairing the buildings given him; and the remainder of the legacy only, shall go to the children of my daughter Polly Battles.

                All the rest, residue and remainder of my estate not herein before disposed of, both real and personal, I give to Olive Thompson & Thos. Thomson aforesaid, to them, their heirs and assigns forever; hereby requiring them to pay all my just debts and charges. And I hereby appoint said Thomas Thompson, sole Executor of this will. In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal the day and year first above written

                                                                                                                                                Samuel Chesman                             (seal)

Signed, sealed, published and declared by the aforesaid Samuel Chesman to be his last will and testament, in presence of us, who in his presence, and in presence of each other, subscribe our names as witnesses.

                                                                                                                                                Jesse Perkins

                                                                                                                                                Isaac P. Monk

                                                                                                                                                George W. Hunt

 

                To the Hon. Judge of Probate for the County of Plymouth.

        Whereas the Executor named in the Will of Saml. Chesman late of North Bridgewater, deceased, died before the testator, and there being no surviving Executor; we therefore request you to appoint Jesse Perkins of North Bridgewater, Administrator with the will annexed on the estate of said Saml. Chesman

        March, 1846                                                                                                                 Olive Thompson

                                                                                                                                                Barzillai King

                                                                                                                                                Zachariah Chesman

                                                                                                                                                Noah Chesman

                                                                                                                                                Josiah O. Battles

 

Presented for probate on the first Tuesday of May, 1846, and proved by Jesse Perkins and George W. Hunt, two of the witnesses.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Samuel Chesman, late of North Bridgewater, yeoman, was appraised by Joel Talbot, Jeremiah Beals, and Azel Gurney, his real estate totaled $1977.00, and his personal estate totaled $81.25. Jesse Perkins, Administrator with the will annexed on the Estate of Samuel Chesman, late of North Bridgewater, gave his oath to the inventory on the first Tuesday of May, 1846.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 88, p. 187-192, from FHL microfilm #0555638.

 

 

Will of Jacob Chipman of Halifax, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1740) *

To all People to whom these Presents Shall come Jacob Chipman of Hallifax in the County of Plymouth in the Province of the Massachusets Bay in New-England husbandman Sendeth Greeting  Whereas I the sd. Jacob Chipman being bound on an Expedition against the Spaniards in the West Indies in Consideration of my Own Mortallity, and my duty to make a Just disposall of my worldly Estate; I do make my last Will and Testament as follows vizt I do Constitute and appoint my Loveing Brother Seth Chipman of Kingston in the County aforesd. Cooper to be my Executor with Bethiah my wife to be my Executrix hereby Giveing unto them full power to let in the premises as fully and absolutely to all intents & purposes as the Law directs not willing or meaning any seniple[?] to arise or power to be wanting for want of any further Expression

Item I do Expect Something comeing to me from my first wife Abigail my Will is that it be given to my two Eldest daughters Sary & Abigail which as soon each of them is Eighteen years old they shall receive with all ye profits thereof in equal proportion to be paid by my Executors. –

Item I do Give unto my loveing wife Bethia Chipman the whole income of all my Estate both Real & personal to be at her dispose as she thinks best for ye Support of herselfe and family untill my son Jacob is twenty years of age and then I do Give Unto my sd. son Jacob the whole of my Real Estate he allowing unto my sd. wife Bethia one third part of the Rents and profits of all my real Estate as long as She remains my Widdow and allso my sd. son Jacob is to pay to my Nine daughters, namely Sary Chipman Abigail Chipman Lucretia Chipman Lydia Chipman Ann Chipman Bethiah Chipman Priscilla Chipman Hannah Chipman Mary Chipman the sum of fifteen pounds to each of them in the Currancy that shall the be passing in ye. manner following vizt to each of them Seven pounds and ten shillings in ye. year of our Lord One thousand seven hundred and fifty Six and the Other half in the year following &c. Moreover I do Give unto my sd. Son Jacob all my husbandry tools and utensils allso –

Item I do give unto my Eldest daughter Sary Chipman One feather bed with ye. furniture thereof &c. and the rest of my moveable Estate I do Give One third part of it Unto my said wife bethiah and ye other two thirds I do give to my aforesaid Nine daughters to be Equally divided among them when as soon as my sd. son Jacob is twenty One years of age &c. And I the sd. Jacob Chipman in a Sound mind & upon due Consideration do make this my last Will and Testement hereby Renounceing all former writeings or Instruments of this Nature and I do hope and desire that no lairls[?] or difficulty may be raised herein by any but that my Will may be complyed with in all perticulers according as is expres’d  in Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and Seal this Seventeenth day of September Anno Domini One Thousand seven hundred and forty 1740.

Signd Seald and Acknowledged

  in the presence of us                                                                                                         Jacob Chipman                                (seal)

Abiah Wadsworth

Samuel Palmer

Moses Basset

 

Presented for probate on 2 Nov. 1741 by Bethia Chipman, and proved by Samuel Palmer. Letters of Administration were granted to Bethia Chipman, the Executrix in ye same will named.

 

Ignatius Loring of Plymton, Jonathan Freeman and Samuel Palmer, of Hallifax, were appointed to appraise the estate of Jacob Chipman, late of Hallifax, on 2 Nov. 1741. The Inventory of the Estate both Real & Personall of Jacob Chipman, late of Hallifax, was dated 10 Nov. 1741, and totaled £1477.7.0, including his homestead valued at £1321. The Executrix of the Testament of the deceasd. gave her oath to the inventory on 1 Feb. 1741.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 8, p. 468-471, from FHL microfilm #0551531.

 

 

Will of Gov. Martin Chittenden of Williston, Chittenden County, Vermont (1835) *

    I Martin Chittenden of Williston County of Chittenden & State of Vermont being of good health of body & Sound & disposing mind & memory praised be God for the same, do make & publish my last will & testament – And first & principally I comit my Soul into the hands of my Creator, who gave it & my body to the earth to be interred at the discretion of my Executor hereafter named. And as to such worldly estate wherewith it has pleased God to entrust me I dispose of the same as follows having advanced to my Son Truman A. Chittenden Four thousand dollars to my son George W. Chittenden Four thousand dollars for which sum I hold his receipt, which is to be given up And to my Daughter Louisa M. Butler one thousand dollars, it is my will that the said Louisa M. Butler receive out of my estate three thousand dollars, which will make them equal, then after paying all my Just debts & necessary expences, it is my will that the remainder of of my Estate both real & personal Shall be divided into three equal parts, one third part I give & bequeath to my son George W. Chittenden absolutely & one other third I give & grant unto the said George W. Chittenden in trust for the benefit of my son Truman A. Chittenden & his children to be disposed of & applied to their use & benefit at Such times and in Such Sums or proportions as he in his discretion shall think will best promote their comfort & Assist the said Truman A. Chittendens Children in Settling in life And the other third part I give & bequeath to my Daughter Louisa M. Butler. And I hereby constitute & appoint my Son Georg W. Chittenden my Sole executor of this my last will & Testament

    In witness whereof I have hereunto Set my hand & Seal this 12 day of of March 1835

Signed, Sealed published & declared                                                                              Martin Chittenden                           (seal)

by the above Named Martin Chittenden

to be his last will & testament

in the presence of us, who have

hereunto Subscribed our Names as

witnesses in the presence of the

Testator ~~

                Geo. P. Manser

                Nathaniel Parker

                Eli Chittendin

 

Presented for probate by George W. Chittenden, the Executor, on 12 Sept. 1840. George W. Chittenden of Willison gave bond with Eli Chittenden and Horace L. Nichols, both of Williston, as sureties, as the Executor of the estate of Martin Chittenden on 19 Oct. 1840. George W. Chittenden, Executor of the last will and testament of Martin Chittenden, late of Williston, notified the court that he believed the estate was insolvent on 19 Oct. 1840. Eli Chittenden and Wright Clark, both of Williston, were appointed to take an inventory of all the estate of Martin Chittenden, late of Williston, on 19 Oct. 1840. The Inventory, dated 15 Jan. 1841, totaled $18,045.21, including a house occupied by T. A. Chittenden and a house occupied by I. Thompson, 100 acres of land in Underhill, and shares of Champlain Transportation Co., Farmers & Mechanic’s Bank, and Bank of Burlington.

 

George W. Chittenden, one of the heirs and legatees of the estate of Martin Chittenden, late of Williston, petitioned for a division of the estate of his late father on 8 Sept. 1841, the other heirs being Truman A. Chittenden and Louesa M. Butler, the wife of Lorin G. Butler. Luther Loomis and John Johnson, both of Burlington, and Horace L. Nichols, of Williston, were appointed to divide the estate of Martin Chittenden, late of Williston, among his heirs Truman A. Chittenden, George W. Chittenden, and Louisa M. Butler, on 10 Sept. 1841.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Chittenden County Probate Estate Files, 1840, Box 10, File #1053.

 

 

Will of Samuel Churchel of Plympton, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1751) *

In the Name of God Amen the Seventeenth Day of Apriel One thousand Seven Hundred and fiftyone I Samuel Churchel of Plimton in the County of Plimouth in New England yeoman Being Sick and weak of Body though of perfect Mind and Memorey thanks Be Given to almighty God & Calling to mind the mortallity of of my Body and knowing that is appointed for all men once To Dye Do Make and Ordain this my Last Will and Testament and principally and first of all I Recomend my Soul into the Hands of God that gave it Hoping that Throw the Merrits death & Suffering of Jesus Christ to receive free and full Pardon of all my Sins and my Body I Recomend unto the Earth to Be Decently Buried at the Descretion of my Executor Hereafter Named Beleveing that I Shall Receve the Same again at the Generail Resurrection By the mighty Power of God and as Touching Such Worldly Estate as it Hath Pleased God to Bless me with in this Life I Give and Bequeath in the Folowing manner and form viz~

I Give and Bequeath unto my Well Beloved wife Marcy the Improvement of one third part of all my Real Estate so Long as She Shall Remain my Widdow I also Give & Bequeath unto my said Wife all the House Hold Goods that She Brought to me when She Became my Wife and also My Will is that my Executor Shall Provide a Hors for my said Wife Suteable for Her to Ride, with Suteable furniture and at all Times Be Provided with a Horse and furniture as Before Expressed so Long as She Shall Remain my Widdow and also my Will is that the Charge of Purchasing a Horse and Furniture as Before Expresed Shall Be advanced By my Executor out of my Estate I also Give and Bequeath unto my Said Wife one Cow and Six Good Sheep and one hogg now on my farm I also Give and Bequeath unto my Said Wife all my Indian Corn with four Bushells of Rye together with all Other Provisions now in my House & Sufficiant for Her and her Daughter untill the Next fall. I also Give and Bequeath unto my said Wife five Chears and also one iron pot and two Kittles and one Frying pan Together with all My flax and yarn I also Give and Bequeath unto my Said Wife one Small puter plater with two puter Spoons and also my Will is that my said Wife Shall Have the Use and Improvement of the Best Roome in my Dwelling House and Bedroom and Lento, and the use of So much of the Seller as she shall have occation for with the The Improvement of So Much Room in My Barn as She Shall Have ocation for so Long as she shall Remain my Widdow and also my Will is that my said Wife shall Have the use and Improvement of apair of Dogs and one Slice and one pair of Tongs So Long as She shall Remain my Widdow I also give unto my sd. wife two washing Tub, sifting Trough I also give unto my Said Wife a mourning sate & apparel I also Give unto my sd. Wife all my Hogs fatt and Tallow now in my House I also Give unto my said wife my Foot wheel.—

Item – I Give and Bequeath unto my Grandson Samuel Darlin son to My Daughter Marcy Darlin Deceaset & his Heirs and assigns For Ever one Third part of all my Real Estate Together with one Fether Bed and Furniture and one Gun fit for Service Together With one Half of all my Wairing appereal –

Item – I Give and Bequeath unto my Granson Joseph Darlin Six pounds thirteen Shilling and four pence Lawfull money to be payed By my aforesaid Granson Samuel Darlin out of the Estate Herein Given Him when my said Granson shall arive to the age of Twenty one years – Item – I Give and Bequeath unto my Daughter Mehiteble Harlow her heirs and assigns for Ever one third part of my Reail Estate: Item I Give and Bequeath unto my Granson James Morton one Gun Together with one Half of all my wairing apprail: Item: I Give and Bequeath unto my Son James Harlow one Gun Item I Give and Bequeath unto my Daughter Else Letch and to her Heirs and assigns forever one third part of all My Reail Estate and also my Will is that Whereas I am Bound with my son Jese Leach for the payment of twenty Six pounds thirteen Shillings & four pence Lawfull money that unless my said Son Leach Shall Discharge my Heirs from said Bonds that the said Bonds Shall Be paid out of the Estate herein Given To my aforesaid Daughter Elce Letch and her Heirs –

Item – I Give and Bequeath unto my aforementioned Granson James Morton one Fether Bed and Furniture and also my Will is that after My Decease My Executor shall Deliver unto Marcy Eless Daughter to my Present wife one Cow of Four years old Being part of her Estate that I had in my Hands

Item ~ I Give and Bequeath unto Elce Letch and Mehitebel Harlow and there Heirs and assigns forever and unto my aforesaid two GranChildron viz Samuel Darlin and Joseph Darlin and there Heirs and assigns forever all the Remaining part of my Movbele Estate to Be Equally Divided Betwen them all accordin to Law and also my Will is that that Before any Division Be Had of my Estate that all my Just Debts and funeral Charges Be truly and Justly paid out of my moveable Estate ~~

And Lastly I Do Constetute and appoint My Son James Harlow Sole Executor on this my Last will and Testement and Do By these presents Revoke and Renounce all other Will Before By me made Conferming this and No Other to Be My Last Will and Testement in Testimoney Whereof I the aforesaid Samuel Churchel Have Signed and Sealed the Day and Year above Written –

Signed Sealed Published and pronounced

and Decelaird By the aforesaid Samuel

Churchel to Be His Last Will and Testemt.

in the Presents of us the Subscribers

William Boney                                                                                                                    Samuel Churchel                             (seal)

Beriah Bonney

Josiah Perkins

 

Presented for probate on 6 May 1751 by the Executor therein named, and proved by William Bonney, Beriah Boney, and Josiah Perkens, the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to James Harlow of Plimton, the Executor, on 6 May 1751.

 

The Inventory of the Estate both Real and Personal of Dea. Samuel Churchel late of Plimton, was appraised by Josiah Perkins, Robart Waterman, and William Boney, but not dated, his real estate and lawful money totaled £568, and his personal estate totaled £96.7, with a £1 right in a piece of cedar swamp added to the inventory on 2 July 1751. The appraisers gave their oath to the inventory on 8 June 1751, and James Harlow, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 10 July 1751.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 12, pp. 304-307, 258, from FHL microfilm #0551539.

 

 

Will of William Churchel of Plympton, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1759) *

In The Name of God Amen the 22d day of September 1759~ William Churchel of Plimton in the County of Plimouth in the Province of The Massachusets Bay In New-England Yeoman being sick & weak of Body but of sound Mind and Memory & calling to Mind the Mortality of my Body and Knowing that it is appointed for all Men once to die do make and ordain this my last will & Testament & first & Principally I recomend my soul to God that gave it & that Through the Death & Merits of Jesus Christ I shall receive the free & full Pardon of all my Sins & my Body I Commit unto the Earth to be Decently Buried at the Discression of my Execrs. Hereafter Mentioned beleiving I shall receive the same again at the Generall Resurrection By the Mighty Power of God & as Touching such Worldly Estate as it Hath Pleased God to Bless me with in this Life I give & Dispose of in the following Manner –

Item I Give & Bequeath unto my wellbeloved wife Marebah one third Part of all my moveable Estate Together with the Improvement of one 3rd Part of my Farm whereon I now dwell –

Item I Give and Bequeath unto My Son Ichabod Churchel his Heirs & Assigns forever all my Husbandry Tools with three working Oxen Together with one half of two Cases of Bottles with My smallest Brass Kittle & my Largest Iron Kittle—

Item I give & Bequeath unto Joannah Churchel Daughter to my son Ichabod one small Trunk—

Item I give & Bequeath unto my four Daughters viz Hannah Bisbee, Ruth Cole, Abigail Bryant, & Sarah Marshal to each of them thirteen Pounds six shillings & eight pence

Item I give & Bequeath to the Children of my Daughter Rebeccah Foord Decd. viz noah Foord, Hezekiah Ford, Wm. Ford & Ruth Ford to each of them Twenty shillings

Item – I give & Bequeath unto My Grandaughter Rebeccah Ford nine pounds six shillings & eight pence

Item I Give & Bequeath unto my seven Children viz David Churchel, Nathl. Churchel,– Ichabod Churchil, Hannah Bisbee, Ruth Cole, Abigail Briant, & Sarah Marshal their Heirs & Assigns forever to be Equaly divided between Them all the Remaining part of My moveable Estate not already Given & Disposed of allso my will is that the aforesaid Legacies Just Debts & Funeral Charges shall be pd. & dischargd. by my Three sons & two Grandsons in Equal Proportion Viz David Churchel Nathll. Churchel & Ichabod Churchel to Pay & Discharge three Quarters thereof & Isaac Churchel, & Jno. Churchel to Pay & Discharge the other Quarter part thereof allso my will is that the aforesd. Legacies Debts & funerall Charges before mentd. shall be pd. out of the Estate I have allready given my aforesd. sons by Deed the one half of sd. Legacies to be pd. within six months & the other half in 12 months after my decease the one half of sd. sums to be pd. in Cash & the other half in moveable Estate at Cash Price allso my will is that before any Division of my moveable Estate that Hanah Bisbee & Abigail Briant shall receive so my out of sd. Estate as is Equivalent to two beds Ruth Cole & Sarah Marshal lately recd. out of my Estate

Lastly I Constitute & appoint my Two Sons David Churchel & Ichabod Churchel of this my last will & Testament & I do by these Presents Revoak & Disanul all wills before by me made Ratifying & Confirming this & no other to be my last Will & Testament In Testimony whereof I have signed & sealed the Day & Year above written.

Signed sealed Publishd. Pronounced & Declared & DD

by the aforesd. Wm. Churchel to be his last Will &

Testament in Prescence of

                Thos Croade                                                                                                         William Churchel                            (seal)

                Josiah Perkins

                John Perkins

 

Presented for probate on 3 Mar. 1760 by the Excrs. therein named, and proved by Thos. Croade Esqr., Josiah Perkins, and John Perkins, the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to David Churchel and Ichabod Churchel, the Executors, on 3 March 1760.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of mr. William Churchel late of Plimton, was appraised by Josiah Perkins, William Ripley and Gideon Samson on 12 Mar. 1760, and totaled £114.12.9, no real estate. David Churchel and Ichabod Churchel, the Executors, gave their oath to the inventory on 13 Mar. 1760.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 15, pp. 464-465, 460, from FHL microfilm #0551543.

 

 

Will of Eleazer Churchell of Plymouth, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1716) *

In the Name of God Amen I Eleazer Churchel of the Town & County of Plymouth in New England Yeoman Being Thrô the mercy of God of a Sound & disposing mind & memory, But Considering my frailty & mortality & ye uncertainty of the Time of my Continuance in this World & being desirous to Sett my house in order before my Departure Doe therefore make & ordain this my Last Will & Testament as followeth - - - -

Viz I doe in the first Place Give up my Immortal Soul to God that gave it Trusting Wholly & only upon ye free grace of God & meritts of Jesus Christ for Eternal Salvation and my Body to ye Earth to be Decently Buried hoping to Receive it again att the Resurrection of ye Just. And as to what Temporal Estate it hath pleased God to lend me (my Just Debts & funerall Charges being first Paid & Discharged) I Dispose of the Same as followeth viz - - - -

Imprimis: I give & Bequeath To my son Eleazer Churchell his heirs & assigns forever the westerly End of my Dwelling house in which he now dwells as also ye one half of my half of ye new Barne which he & I built together as also the one half of my Pasture Land wch I lately fenced in att ye head of my Homestead - - - -

Item I give & Bequeath To my Son Stephen Churchell his heirs & assigns forever my acre of Land near Pontus’ meadow which lyes in Equal Partnership Between my Brother Joseph & my Self as also ten acres of my thirty acre Lott Lying to the north ward of a Place Called ye high Ridge - - - -

Item: I give & Bequeath To my Son Elkanah Churchell his heirs & assigns forever the Easterly End of my Dwelling House and also my other half of ye abovesd New Barne - - - -

Item: I give & Bequeath to my two sons to ym & their heirs & assigns Equally my two acres of Land att Oberry on which they have already Planted an orchard on Part viz, to my two Sons Eleazer & Stephen

Item: I give & Bequeath to my two Sons, Eleazer & Elkanah their heirs & assigns forever Equally between them all my Land, Lying Between the orchard and ye Bay.

Item: It is my Will that my Son Stephen have my ten acres above mentioned on ye northwest Side of Said 30 acre Lott - - - -

Item: I give & Bequeath to my two Sons Eleazer & Elkanah their heirs & assigns forever the Remainder of my Sd thirty acre Lott wth 7 acres, added to it Equally between them - - - -

Item: I give & Bequeath all the Remainder of my Land, & meadow wtSoever & wheresoever to my three Sons Eleazer Stephen & Elkanah their heirs & assigns forever to be Equally Divided between them - - - -

Item: It is my Will that my Daughters Joanna & Mary have Liberty So long as they Live In our Neighbourhood to Cut fire-wood for ye use of their own family, firing on my Land between Finneys meadow and Warrens Well Granting also ye Same Liberty to any of my Daughters if Providence Shall so Dispose that they Live in our sd neighbourhood - - - -

Item: I give & Bequeath to my five Daughters, viz, Hannah Joanna Abigall Jedidah & Mary beside what They have already had all my moveable or Personall Estate whatsoever (my Just Debts and funerall Charges being full paid out of it & in Case it Shall not amount to ten Pounds a peice my Will is that my above mentioned three Sons pay them so much as To make up Said Sum, Each of Sd Sons to pay in proportion to ye Lands I have given them - - - -

Item: I Doe Constitute & appoint my Son Eleazer Churchell to be Sole Executor of this my Last will and testament; & Doe hereby Revoke Disanull & make void all other & former Wills by mee heretofore made Ratifying Confirming & allowing this & no other to be my Last Will & Testament & In Witness hereof have hereunto Sett my hand & Seal this twenty third Day of January anno Dom one thousand Seven hundred and fifteen 1715/6

Signed Sealed & Declared                                                                                                 Eleazer Churchell           (seal)

to be his last Will & Tes:

:tament In Presence

of us

Ephraim Little

Martha Howland

    her  M  marke

Sarah Little

 

PlimSs on the 9th Day of march 1715:16 Mr Ephraim Little Mrs Sarah Little & Martha Howland the witnesses named to this Will made oath that they Saw the above named Eleazer Churchell Sign & Seal & heard him declare the above Written to be his Last Will & Testament & that when he so did he was of a Disposing mind & memory to the best of their Knowledge Before me

                                                                                                                                                Nathaniel Thomas Judge of Probates

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Eliezer Churchell, late of Plymouth, was appraised by John Foster and Stephen Barnaby in Mar. 1716/17, but not totaled. Eliezer Churchell, the Executor, gave is oath to the inventory of this father Eliezer Churchell, late of Plymouth, on 1 May 1718.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 3, p. 408-410, from FHL microfilm #0550509, and Vol. 4, p. 80, from FHL microfilm #0550510.

 

 

Will of James Churchell of Plympton, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1754) *

  In the Name of God Amen; The first Day of February One Thousand Seven Hundred and Fifty four I James Churchell of Plimton in the County of Plimouth in New England Yeoman, being in Good Helth of Body and of a Sound mind and memory, thanks be Given to Almighty God therefor, and Calling to mind the Mortality of my Body knowing at it is appointed for all men Once to Die Do make and Ordain this my Last Will & Testamt. That is to Say, principally and first of all I Give & Recommend my Soul unto the hands of God that gave it and my Body unto the Earth to be Buried in a Decent Christain Buriall at the Discretion of my Execrx Nothing Doubting but at the Resurrection I shall Receive the Same again by the Mighty power of God, and as touching Such Worldly Estate as it hath pleased God to bless me with in this Life I Give Demise & Dispose off in the Following maner and form ~

Imprs. I Give and Bequeath unto Mary my well beloved Wife all the Real Estate which I have bought Since She became my Wife Excepting the Lott of Land that I bought of Capt. John Loring her & her Heirs & assigns forever Togather with all my Houseing and out Housing Free and clear, & my Will is that my Wife shall have the Improvment of one half of all the Rest of my Real Estate so Long as She shall Remain my Widow—

                Item, I Give Unto my aforesaid Wife To her Own Disposall all my personall and moveable Estate Excepting what I shall hereafter Dispose off, unto her and her Heirs & Assigns forever And my Will is that my Wife have the Improvment of the Land that I Bought of Capt. John Loring for cutting of Firewood as much as She Shall have need for and all the Improvment of all the apples out of the Orchard So Long as She Shall remain my Widow,--

                Item I Give and Bequeath unto my Brother Isaac Churchell a Lott of Land that Lyeth over the Caus-Way, by estimation about Fifteen Acres To him & his heirs and Assigns forever—

                Item I Give and Bequeath unto my Cousen Nathll. Churchell son to my Brother William Churchell to him and his heirs & Assigns forever five Acres of Land which my Hond. Father Gave me to be Laid out unto him from the Roade to the Ceder Swamp by the Side of the Lott that I bought of my Brother William Churchell, my Wife to have the Improvment as abovexpresed

                Item I Give and Bequeath Unto my Cousin Elijah Mcfarling the Lott of Land that I bought of Capt. John Loring lying by the Side of the Land of Gideon Bradford’s To him & his heirs & assigns forever (Except my Wive’s Improvmt. for Cutting off Fire Wood as before Expresed

                Item, I Give and Bequeath unto my Cousin Susanna Churchell the Wife of Nathll. Churchell of Plimton the Sum of Four pounds lawfull money To be paid unto her or her heirs or assigns by my Execx Out of Moveable Estate ~

                Item, I Give and Bequeath unto my Cousin David Churchell Son to my Brother William Churchell To him his heirs and Assigns for ever, all the rest of my Real Estate which my Hond. Father Gave Me in his Last Will and Testament Reserving unto my Wife the Improvment as aforesaid, he the sd. David Churchell shall take the Care of Thomas Lambart als. Churchell and provide for him in sickness & in helth so that he be Chargeable to nobody else; and also to pay my Just Debts and Funerall Charges, the Severall Debts & Funerall Charges which I have in my Last Will and Testament Orderd the aforesd David Churchell to pay & Discharge my Will is that he pay them Out of the Real Estate which I have Above Given him.

                And Lastly I Do Constitute make and ordain my well Beloved Wife Sole Executrix of this my last Will and Testament & Do Hereby Revoke & Disalow & Disanull all other Wills by me Made; Ratifying and Confirming this and no other To be my Last Will & Testament whereof I have hereunto Sett my hand & Seal the Day and Year abovewritten

Sign’d Sealed Published & Declared                                                                                      his mark

by the said James Churchell to be                                                                                   James  O  Churchell                            (seal)

his Last Will and Testament

                In the presence of us

William Bonney

Beriah Bonney

John Bradford

 

Presented for probate on 3 Feb. 1755 by the Executrix therein named, and proved by Beriah Bonney and John Bradford, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Mary Churchell of Plimton, widow, Executrix, on 3 Feb. 1755, with John Bradford and Joel Elis, Yeomen, both of Plimton, as sureties.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 13, p. 384-386, from FHL microfilm #0551540.

 

 

Will of Joseph Churchell of Plymouth, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1711/12) *

In the Name of God amen. I Joseph Churchell of the Town & County of Plymouth in New=England Yeoman Considering the Certainty of death & uncertainty of Life, and being also Under many Infirmitys of body Tho^ thro^ the Mercy of God of a Sound and disposing mind & memory, Do make and ordain this my last Will and Testament as followeth, That is to say I do in the first place give up my Imortal soul to God that gave it, and my body to the earth to be decently buried in hopes of a Glorious Resurrection thro^ Christ, and as to what of this worlds goods it hath pleased God to bless me withall, my just debts and funerall Charges being paid I dispose of the same as followeth, Viz.

Imprs. I give and bequeath to my Loving wife Sarah Churchell the use and Improvement of all my personall Estate (Except what I shall in this Instrument Otherwise dispose of) for her Support and Subsistance during her natural Life, with power to dispose of the same at her decease among my Children as she shall se Cause, as also the one Third part of all my Housing & Lands for her use and Improvement during her natural Life as abovesd.  —  —

Item. I give and bequeath unto my son John Churchill his heirs & Assignes forever he paying One Third of my Just debts due at my decease all that my five acres of Land Lying at the North=westward of my former dwelling house, Bounded toward the Bay by the Old fence as it used – formerly to be fenced, with the addition fence Granted by the Town at the Head of sd. five acres Excepting the Land which my dwelling house stands upon with Convenient Room for Egress round and about the same, with free passage to and from the pond behind the house.

Item. I give unto my sd. son Liberty to dwell in that Room of my house in which he now dwells til he Can build an house or provide for himself. Item I give unto my sd. Son John his heirs & assignes forever all my Interest in the Lot of Land at the south pond Lying in partnership between my brother Eliezer and my selfe. Item I give unto my sd. Son John his heirs and assignes for ever all my Interest in the meadow or Grassy Holes lying to the Southward of sd. pond also in partnership with my brother Eliezer. Item I give and bequeath to my sd. Son John his heirs and Assignes for ever all my Interest in Lands at or near a place Called Pontus’s meadow in Plymouth aforesd. being also in partnership with my sd. Brother. Item I give to my sd. son John his heirs & assignes for ever one Third part of my nineteen acres of Land at a place Commonly Called Green Hill in Plymouth aforesd. Item I give unto my sd. Son John the one half of my meadow at the South meadows so Called to him his heirs & assignes for ever. Item I give to my sd. Son John my Musquet.  Item, I give and bequeath to my son Barnabas Churchell his heirs and assignes for ever (he paying 2 Thirds my Just debts that shall be due out of my estate at my decease all that my Orchard and the remainder of my homestead Below the Country Road up as far as the Westermost part of the sheep house on the Hill. Item, I give unto my sd. Son Barnabas his Heirs and assigns for ever One Third part of my sd. Nine acres at Green Hill Aforesd.—

Item. I give unto my sd. Son his heirs & assignes for ever the One Moiety or half of my Wood Land at Warrens Wells. Item, I give to my sd. Son Barnabas his Heirs and assignes for ever the Other half of my sd. meadow at South meadow. Item, I give to my sd. Son Barnabas his heirs & assignes for ever the One half of my now dwelling house. Item I give to my son Barnabas my Little Gun.

Item I give and Bequeath to my son Joseph Churchill his heirs & assignes forever the Other half of my dwelling house with free Egress & Regress & Conveniency of passage to and from & about the Same; And it is my Will that in Case my Sons Barnabas & Joseph Shall build a Barn Together on Barnabas’s Land that Joseph have free Liberty of egress & regress equall with his Brother Barnabas to & from sd. Barn. Item I give and Bequeath to my sd. Son Joseph his heirs & assignes for ever all that part of my Homestead or Home Lott that lyeth above the Country Road and that part Below the Road til it Come square with sd. Sheep house where Barnabas is Bounded. Item I give to my sd. son Joseph his Heirs & Assignes for ever the Other third part of my sd. 19 acres at Green Hill, and also the Other moiety or half of my sd. Wood Land at Warrens Wells. Item I give unto my son Joseph the Gun Lately bought being One of the Queens Arms.  Item I give unto my daughter Margerett Bates the Sum of Six pounds to be paid Out of my moveable Estate After my wifes decease, Or to her the sd. Margeretts Children if She dye before.

Item. I give & Bequeath to my three sons John Barnabas & Joseph their Heirs & Assignes & Assignes forever the New pasture lately fenced in by the water side Equally among them  Item. I give & Bequeath to my two Sons Barnabas & Joseph their heirs & assignes for ever all my Interest in Cedar swamp and my share or Interest in the Common or undivided Land to be Equally divided Between them. Item It is my Will that my Three Sons if they se Cause have an Equall privilidge in my Interest in the Well.

Item. It is also my Will that in Case either of my abovementioned Sons Shall Se Cause to Sell his Interest in any of the Housing or Lands or meadows that I have herein devised and Bequeathed to them that he give One of his Bretheren the first refusall of the same giving as Much as another will give. Item I do by these presents Constitute ordain & Appoint my abovesd. Loving wife Sarah Churchell Sole Executrix of this my Last Will & Testament, and do hereby revoak disanull and make utterly null & void all other & former Wills and Testaments by me heretofore made Ratifying Confirming & allowing this & no Other as my last Will & Testament. And In Witness hereof have hereunto Set my hand & Seal this Twenty & Second day of January Anno Domini One Thousd. Seven hundred & Eleven 1711/12.

Signed sealed & declared to be his last Will &                                                                     The mark of

Testament In presence of us.             —                                                                             Joseph  J  Churchell                           (seal)

Ephraim Little

Eliezer Donham

Hannah Drew

 

Probated on 5 Mar. 1719/20, and proved by Mr. Ephraim Little, Eliezer Donham, and Hannah Drew, the witnesses. Letters of Administration granted to Sarah Churchell, the relict widdow and sole Executrix.

 

The Inventory of the estate of Joseph Churchell Senr, was appraised by Abraham Jackson Senr. and Thomas Morton Senr., on 13 Nov. 1719, but was not totaled, and did not include any of his real estate. Sarah Churchell, the Executrix, gave her oath to the inventory on 5 Mar. 1719/20.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 4, p. 201-203, from FHL microfilm #0550510.

 

 

Will of Lydia Churchell of Plympton, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1730) *

Know all Men by these Presents that Whereas I Lydia Churchell Widow & Relict of William Churchell late of Plimton in the County of Plymouth in New-England Deceasd being under bodily Infirmity Yet by the Blessing of God of Sound & Disposing Mind & Memory, And whereas my Abovesd Husband in his last Will & Testament bearing Date the 27th Day of March One thousand Seven hundred twenty two, did Give & Bequeath unto me All his Share of Land in the last Allotment in Plymouth laying near or towards Sandwich as also his Tackling belonging to his Team, his Debts due to him, and the one Half of all his Moveable Estate to be at my Dispose: Therefore Considering the Mortality of my Body and being Minded to Dispose of my Abovesd Estate in my life time Do make & Ordain this & no other to be my last Will & Testament to remain firm & inviolable forever (as followeth) —

Imprimis I Give & Bequeath to my Son Benjamin Churchell: the one Quarter Part of my abovesd Share of Land to him & to his Heirs and assigns forever; Item I Give to my Son Josiah Churchell the one Quarter Part of my Abovesd Share of Land to him & to his Heirs & assigns forever; Together with all the Tackling belonging to the Team—And also one Warming Pan — Item I Give unto my Son James Churchell the One quarter Part of my abovesd Share of Land to him & to his Heirs & assigns forever; Item I Give unto my Daughter Lydia Lovell the one Half of my Wearing apparrell And also one Pewter Platter; Item I Give unto my Grand Son Thomas Churchell otherwise Thomas Lumbard Son of my Daughter Lydia Lovell one Small Iron Pot — I also Give to my Abovenamed Son James Churchell the One Half of my moveable Estate that is not already Disposed of  Item I Give to my Daughter Mehetabel Shaw the one Quarter Part of my Abovesd Share of Land to her & her Heirs & assigns forever, Together with the other Half of my moveable Estate not already Disposed of — And my Will is that my just Debts & funeral Charges be paid out of my moveable Estate, and I also Constitute Ordain & appoint my Son William Churchell to be my Sole Executor to this my last Will & Testament: Thus hoping that this my last Will & Testament will be kept & performed To the true Intent & Meaning thereof I Commit my Body to the Grave & my Soul to God who gave it. In Witness whereof I have hereunto Set my hand & Seal this twenty ninth Day of June in the Year of Our Lord One thousd Seven hundred & thirty — 1730 —

Signed Sealed Declared & Pronounced by ye sd Lydia Churchell to be her last Will and Testamt.—                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                          her

In Presence of us ye Subscribers                                                                                       Lydia   X   Churchell           (seal)

Isaac Bryant -  Timothy Ripley                                                                                                  Mark

                John Bell

 

Proved on 24 April 1736 by Isaac Bryant, Timothy Ripley, and Jno. Bell, the witnesses.

 

Mr. Josiah Perkins, Hopestill Bisbee, and George Bryant, all of Plimton, were appointed to appraise the estate of Lydia Churchell, late of Plimton, on 24 Apr. 1736. The Inventory of the Estate of Lydia Churchell, dated 12 May 1736, totaled £82.17.10, including one lot of land valued at £52.10. Willm Churchell, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 18 May 1736.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 7, pp. 193, 198, from FHL microfilm #0550513.

 

 

Will of Mary Churchell of Plympton, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1768) *

                                                In the Name of God, Amen.

The twentieth day of December one thousand, seven hundred & sixty eight. I Mary Churchell of Plimton in the county of Plymouth in New-England being weak of body, notwithstanding thro’ divine goodness of a sound and disposing memory, notwithstanding, calling to mind the mortality of my body, knowing that it is appointed for all men once to die do make and do make and ordain this my last will and testament, and principally, and first of all, I recomend my soul into the hands of God that gave it, trusting thro’ free grace in Christ to receive the free and full pardon of all my sins, and to inherit glory, and my body I recomend unto the earth to be decently buried, at the discretion of my executor hereafter mentioned, trusting that at the general resurrection to receive the same again by the mighty power of God, and as touching such worldly estate as it hath pleased God to bless me with in this Life, I give & bequeath in the following manner.

   Item. I give and bequeath unto my cousin David Churchell, his heirs & assigns forever, one acre of Land lying by his son William’s home, together with my great-chair. ~

   Item. I give and bequeath unto my cousin Mary Churchell, wife to my cousin David, her heirs and assigns forever, all my buildings with my best coverlet, & round table, with my riding-hood, together with my riding-chair, and my right in a pew in the meeting-house, with my dripping-pan, with my hatchel, & spice-mortar, with my allapeen-gown, with my gold necklace, & one silver-spoon, & a pair of silver-clasps, with one large pewter bason, with my silk-quilt, & my gauze-scarff, with my chafing dish, & Lawn-sift.

   Item, I give and bequeath unto my cousin Leah Churchell, one grogram gown, and my velvet-hood, & velvet handkerchief.

   Item. I give and bequeath unto my cousin Elijah Mcfarling my warming pan, & one pair of iron-doggs.

   Item, I give and bequeath unto my cousin John Mackfarling, five pounds old tenor.

   Item, I give and bequeath unto my cousin Patience Mcfarling, one feather-bed, & bedstead, & coverlet, & one pair of sheets. – together with my camblet riding-hood, & one silk crape-gown, & my broad-cloth cloak, & one gauze hood, & one silk-hood, & one taffaty-apron, & one blue shiff quilt, & one pr. of smoothing-irons.

   Item, I give & bequeath unto Abigail Churchell, one taffaty gown, & one silver spoon.

   Item, I give & bequeath unto my cousin Lidia Churchell, one blue tammy quilt.

   Item, I give & bequeath unto my cousins Susannah Churchell, my jewels.

   Item, I give & bequeath unto my cousin Mary Macfarling, one chest with one draw.

   Item, I give & put into the hands of my cousin David Churchell, his heirs & assigns forever, all the remaining part of my real estate, in order to pay my just debts & charges, together with the remaining part of my movable estate; Also my will is that if there is any estate remaining in the hands of my cousin David Churchell after the just debts & charges are paid, my will is that it shall be equally divided between Patience Mackfarlin, Mary Churchell, & Leah Churchill.

   And Lastly I do constitute my cousin David Churchell sole executor of this my last will and testament, ratifying this and no other to be my Last will and testament.  In testimony hereof I have signed & sealed the day & year above-written. ~

Signed, sealed, published, declared, & delivered                                                                          her

by the said Mary Churchell to be her Last                                                                         Mary   M   Churchell                      (seal)

will & testament, in presence of us                                                                                                  mark

                                                                Josiah Perkins

                                                                William Churchell

                                                                James Churchell

 

Presented for probate on 6 Aug. 1770 by David Churchell, the Executor therein named, and proved by Josiah Perkins and William Churchell, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to David Churchell, the Executor.

 

The Inventory of the estate of Mary Churchell, late of Plimton, was appraised on 21 May 1771 by William Ripley, Zebedee Chandler, and Ignatius Loring, and totaled £186.11.5, including her land, meadow and buildings valued at £138.3.4. David Churchell, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 23 May 1771.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 20, pp. 400-401, 507, from FHL microfilm #0550711.

 

 

Will of William Churchell of Plympton, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1722) *

Know all men by these Presents that I William Churchell Senr. of Plympton in ye County of Plymouth In New: England, Being at this Present time under Bodily Infirmity, but of a Sound & disposing memory and understanding: Blessed be God for It: & Being Sensible of my own mortality & Being minded to Settle my outward Estate: Do make & ordain this to be my Last Will & Testament, to Remain firm & Inviolable for Ever

Imprimis: I give & Bequeath unto my Son William Churchell my thirty acre Lott of Land whereon he now dwelleth: & also my five acres of Land which was Since laid out adjoyning Thereunto: and also my Six acres of Land laid out adjoyning Thereunto, being Part of my Twenty acres Lott, (Excepting one acre There of which I formerly gave unto Luke Perkins) & also I give unto my sd Son William my Lott of meadow ground Lying upon the neck Called Kings neck: Item: I give & Bequeath unto my Son Isaac Churchell: all my Lands which lye adjoyning together: Where He now dwelleth, Except that which is now mowable meadow: Item, I give & Bequeath unto my Son Benjamin Churchell, all my Lands which lye adjoyning where He now dwelleth, and In Reference to my Lands Whereon I now dwell: I have bounded out a Certain Parcell Thereof: as followeth: Beginning at ye Edge of ye upland: at ye westerly End of ye Causey: & from Thence Ranging South four degrees westerly an Hundred & two Rods to ye Spruce Stump which is ye Bounds of ye Cedar Swamp Lott & from thence north: 75 degrees Easterly: 17: Rods & a half to a Beach Stump with Stones about It & from thence north: 61: Degrees: Easterly 33 Rods & a half to a Stake & Stones by ye Fence: & from thence East two Degrees Southerly: 20 Rods to a Stake & Stones at ye Fence: at ye Corner of ye Swamp, & from thence bounded by ye Swamp Side unto ye Spruce Tree formerly marked In ye side of ye Swamp which was ye Southerly Corner bound of my thirty acres: & So Including all my Lands which Lye there adjoyning together: to ye Eastward & Northward of ye aforementioned Boundarys: together with ye five acres which was laid out unto my In ye Right of Eleazer Rickard Joyning thereunto, of which aforesd Land So bounded out & described: I give & Bequeath unto my sd Son William Churchell five acres thereof of ye upland, & unto my aforesd Son Isaac two acres & a half thereof, of ye upland, & all ye Rest of ye above bounded Land (Except ye sd five acres, & ye sd two acres & half last mentioned) I give & Bequeath unto my two Sons James Churchell & Josiah Churchell to be Equally divided between them for Quantity & Quality, only my Will is that James Shall have ye Lands lying near unto his dwelling House: & that Josiah Shall have ye Lands near unto my now dwelling House, only Reserving unto my Loving Wife Lydiah Chuirchell, ye use Improvement & Income of one third Part of all ye above Bounded Lands last mentioned during Her natural Life: Item, I give & Bequeath unto my Son Josiah Churchell my now dwelling House Barn & out Houses, only Reserving unto my aforesd Wife ye use and Improvement of all ye Rooms of ye Easterly End of my sd dwelling House both ye Lower Room Chamber & Cellar, & also of ye Barn & out Houses during Her naturall Life. Item, I give & Bequeath unto my five Sons William, James, Isaac, Benjamin & Josiah my Six acre Lott of meadow In Jones River meadow, & all that my meadow which I Bought of Benjamin Eaton that is now mowable meadow to be Equally divided among them, only Reserving unto my aforesd Wife ye use Improvement & Income of one third Part of all ye aforesd meadows during Her natural Life.

Item, I give & Bequeath unto my four Sons William, James, Isaac, & Josiah all that my Land & Swamp ground which lyeth between ye Lands which are bounded out as is before Expressed: & ye Land which I have given to my Son William first mentioned & So lying on ye Easterly Side of ye dam that is In my Swamp, ye Same to be Equally divided among them: Item I give & Bequeath unto my five Sons William, James, Isaac, Benjamin & Josiah all my Rights of Cedar Swamps In ye Township of Plympton to be Equally divided among them (Except a Corner of Cedar Swamp which falls within ye Lands above bounded argect to ye Causey. Item: I give & Bequeath unto my Six Sons William, Samuel, James, Isaac, Benjamin & Josiah all my Rights of Cedar Swamp In ye Township of Pembroke, to be Equally divided among them: Item: I give & Bequeath unto my four Sons William James Isaac & Josiah my 58 acres & a half of Land lying upon ye Neck between Colchester Cedar Swamp & Turkey Swamp to be Equally divided among Them: & as for my uplands In ye Majors Purchase In Pembroke: I give & Bequeath unto my Son William one Quarter Part thereof: & unto my Son Isaac one Quarter Part thereof, & unto my two Sons James & Josiah one Quarter Part thereof: to be Equally divided between them, & unto my aforesd Wife Lydiah Churchell & my Son Benjamin Churchell the other Quarter Part thereof to be Equally divided between them. Item: I give & Bequeath unto my sd Wife Lydiah Churchell my Share of Land In the In ye last allotment In Plymouth lying towards Sandwich to be at Her own disposeing, only In Consideration thereof my Will Is that She Shall Pay all my Just Debts & Funeral Charges & In case It Shall appear that ye value of said Share of Land Is not Sufficient to pay all my Just Debts & Funeral Charges then what Is wanting thereof Shall be Paid by all my Children both Sons & Daughters, (Except my Son Samuel) according to ye Proportion which Each of them Shall Receive of my Estate. Item, I give & Bequeath unto my aforesd wife all ye Debts which are owing unto me. Item, I give & Bequeath unto my aforesd wife all my Tackling belonging to ye Team to be at her own disposing & also I give & Bequeath unto my sd wife the one half of all my moveable Estate whatsoever for Her Comfortable Subsistence & to dispose of as She Shall See Cause. Item: I give & Bequeath unto my two Daughters Lydiah Churchell & Mehitable Churchell the other half of all my moveable Estate whatsoever to be Equally divided between them (Excepting ye Tackling aforesaid) Item, I give & Bequeath unto all my beforenamed Eight Children (both Sons & daughters) my Share of Land In ye Lands Called ye Sheep:fold Lands ye same to be Equally divided among them all, and further my Will Is that all ye Lands meadows & Swamps, which I have given to my Son James Churchell by this my last Will & Testament as is before Expressed, Shall belong unto Him & to His Heirs Lawfully begotten of His Body, & that He Shall not dispose of It to any other always Provided that If he shall not Have an Heir Lawfully begotten of His Body, That In Such Case ye sd Lands meadows & Swamps Shall belong unto Such of His Brothers: or unto Such of His Brothers Children as he Shall See Cause to dispose of ye same unto: but not to dispose of It otherwise, Except It be ye aforesd Rights of Cedar Swamp given to Him as aforesd. which he Shall Have free Liberty to dispose of as He Shall See Cause, and my Will is that my Loving Wife Lydiah Churchell & my Son William Churchell Shall be Executors of this my Last Will & Testament, Thus Hoping that this my Last Will & Testament will be kept & Performed according to ye true Intent & meaning Thereof: I Comitt my Body to ye Dust & my Soul to God That gave It, In witness Whereof, ye aforesaid William Churchell Senr. have hereunto Set my Hand & Seal this twenty seventh day of march one thousand Seven Hundred twenty & two.

Signed Sealed & Declared by

ye aforenamed William

Churchell Senr In ye Presence

of us to be His last Will and                                                                                                              William Churchell                           (seal)

Testament.

Caleb Loring

Jacob Tomson

Josiah Leach.

Memorandum ye Interline

between ye 38th & 39th Lines

& also ye Interline between

ye 40th & 41st Lines: was

Interlined before Signing

& Sealing

 

December ye 19th 1722 The within named Caleb Loring Jacob Tompson two of ye witnesses to ye within written will, made oath that they saw the within named William Churchell late of Plympton In ye County of Plymouth Deceased Sign Seal & heard him declare ye within written Instrument to be his last will & Testament & that they at ye same time together with Josiah Leach Sett to Their Hands as witnesses: & also at ye same time according to ye best of their observation He was of a Sound & disposing mind and memory: Before me: Isaac Winslow, Judge of Probates.

 

Lydiah Churchell, widow, and William Churchell, son of the deceased, the Executors, were granted administration of the estate of William Churchell Senr, late of Plympton, on 12 Mar. 1723.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 3, p. 410-411, from FHL microfilm #0550510.

 

 

Will of Isaac Churchill of Plympton, Plymouth County, Massachusetts Bay (1777) *

In the name of God Amen—I Isaac Churchill of Plymton in the County of Plymouth in the State of Massachusetts Bay in New England yeoman, being Grown Ancient and calling to mind the uncertainty of Life, and the certainty of death, do make and ordain this my Last Will & Testament, and whenever it shall please God to call me out of this world by death, I humbly committ my soul into the hands of God my maker hoping for the remission of all my Sins according to the notes of the redeeming Grace of my Lord & Saviour-Jesus Christ and would commit my body to the Earth to be decently-buryed in a christian manner by my Executors firmly believing its future resurrection from the dead by the mighty power of him who is the resurrection and the Life, and as for Such worldly Goods as I am favourd with in this Life– I Give and dispose of the same in the following manner vizt~

First– my Will is that all my Just debts and funerall charges shall be well & seasonably paid by my Executor of this my Last Will out of my personal Estate~

Also—I hereby Give and bequeath to my well beloved wife Susanna Churchill & to her heirs & assigns forever all my personal Estate Excepting my Carpenters tools & Crow bar ~

Allso—I hereby Give to my Son Isaac Churchill and singular my Carpenters Tools and

Also—I hereby Give my Iron Crow bar to my Grandson Jabez Weston~

Also—I Give & bequeath unto my Four Grand children vizt. Ebenezer Standish, Shadrack Standish, Samuel Everson and Levi Everson, and to their respective heirs & assigns forever all the Land which I bought of William Cushman Lying in Cushman’s Neck (so called) in Plymton aforesaid

Also—I Give & bequeath unto my three Grandsons children of my daughter Susanna Weston decd. one Dollar to Each of them to be paid out of my moveable Estate.~

Also—I Give & bequeath unto my two Grand daughters viz. Rebecca & Molly Ring and to my Grand daughter, Everick Thomas & to each of them & their heirs &c. One Dollar to be paid out of my moveable Estate

And I do hereby constitute and appoint my Son Isaac Churchill to be the Sole Executor of this my Last Will & Testament, and being of sound & disposing mind, memory & Judgment, do hereby revoke disannul and make void & of none effect all former & other Wills, testament, Legacies, bequests &ca. by me heretofore made, and bequeathed; and do hereby ratify & confirm and Establish this and no other to be my Last Will & testament– In Testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal, this seventeenth day of June in the year of Our Lord One thousand, seven hundred & Seventy Seven

Sign’d, Sealed, published, pronounced &                                                                       Isaac Churchill                (seal)

declared by the said Isaac Churchill to be

his Last Will & testament in presence of

us the subscribers

                David Churchill

                Samuell Bonney

                Josiah Marshall

 

Presented for probate on 6 July 1778 by Isaac Churchill, the Executor therein named, and proved by David Churchill, Samuel Bonney, and Josiah Marshall, the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Isaac Churchill, the Executor.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Isaac Churchill, late of Plymton, was appraised on 7 Sept. 1778 by David Churchill, David Magoun, and Samuel Bonney, and totaled £907.0, including twenty acres of land valued at £200, but no dwelling house listed. The appraisers and Isaac Churchill, the Executor, gave their oath to the inventory on 7 Dec. 1778.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 25, p. 31-32, from FHL microfilm #0550713.

 

 

Will of Nathaniel Churchill of Plympton, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1791) *

In The Name Of God Amen.—I, Nathaniel Churchill of Plymton in the County of Plymouth, being thro’ the abundant mercy & goodness of God, tho’ weak in body yet of a sound mind & memory, do constitute this my last will & testament & desire it be Recd. by all, as such

Imprimis—I bequeath my soul to God that gave it, and my body to the earth, to be buried in a decent christian manner at the discretion of my Executor hereafter named. As to my worldly estate, I will & positively order, that all my just debts be paid– and funeral out of my personal estate.

Item—I Give to my loving wife Lydia Churchill, one third part of the improvement of all my estate, both real & personal, during her natural life.

Item—I Give to my Daughter Abigail Bisbee, all my right in the Pond Iron ore in Middleborough, reference being had, to the Proprietors Record.

Item—I Give to my three daughters, vizt. Abigail Bisbee, Lydia Hammon & Susanna Thomas, all my estate, both real & personal, wherever it may be found, not already disposed of or hereafter to be named, to be equally divided between them their heirs or assigns

Item—I Give unto my Grandsons, Lewis Churchill, Hosea Churchill, Levi Churchill, Joseph Churchill & Nathaniel Churchill, each of them, one likely store sheep, out of my flock of sheep or the value thereof in money, to be paid by my Executor, out of my Personal Estate.–

Item.—I Give to my Grandson, Stephen Churchill, my best fire arm with all the accoutraments belonging to the same –

Finally—I do constitute & appoint Hopestill Bisbee of Rochester my sole Executor of this my last will & testament.—In Witness whereof, I the said Nathaniel Churchill have hereunto set my hand & seal this eleventh day of January AD. one thousand seven hundred & ninety one —

Signed, Sealed & delivd in                                                                                                                                  his

presence of us –                                                                                                                   Nathaniel  N  Churchill                       (seal)

Ezra Samson – Molley Tinkham – James Churchill                                                                    mark

 

Presented for probate on 3 Oct. 1803 by Hopestill Bisbee, the Executor therein named, and proved by Ezra Sampson of Hudson in ye State of New York, one of the witnesses, by deposition.

 

Benja. Crooker, Isaac Churchill & Noah Bisbee, all of Plymton, were appointed to appraise the estate of Nathl. Churchill, late of Plymton, yeoman, on 6 Sept. 1803. The Inventory, dated 3 Oct. 1803, totaled $810.51, his real estate totaled $325.87, which included one fourth part of the Homestead Farm & buildings valued at $275.25, and one eighth part of two undivided lots of Cedar Swamp lying in Colchester Swamp valued at $40.62. Hopestill Bisbee, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 3 Oct. 1803.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 38, p. 403-405, from FHL microfilm #0550720.

 

 

Will of Perez Churchill of Middleborough, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1797) *

In the name of God Amen. I Perez Churchill of Middleborough in the county of Plymouth, Gentleman, labouring under many infirmities of body, which are symptoms of approaching mortality but of perfect & disposing memory, thanks be given to almighty God for the same, but calling to mind the mortality of my body, and knowing it is appointed for all men once to die, do make and ordain this my last will & testament. Viz~

Imprimis, I will & bequeath my soul to God who gave it me, and my body to the dust to be decently buried at the discretion of my Executors hereafter named, nothing doubting but at the general resurrection, I shall recieve the same again, by the mighty power of God

Item. I will & bequeath to my beloved son Perez Churchill, his heirs & assigns, in addition to what I have given him by deed of gift—vizt, a parcel of land, bounded, beginning at a stake standing by the road from the Furnace to middleborough, which is the corner of Jabez Churchill’s land, thence southerly by said road to a stake which stands near said Perez’s house, which is a corner of the land I have given him a deed of, thence north forty degrees westerly by said land ‘till it comes to Jabez Churchill’s land, thence easterly by said Jabez’s land to the bound first mentioned. Also one half of the Barn standing on said land, always reserving a way across said land, to the other part of sd Barn, with a privilege around sd Barn, which I shall hereafter dispose of. Also one third part of my cedar swamp lots, excepting one acre which I shall hereafter, dispose of, also one half of my double brooks meadow, so called, with the privileges thereunto belonging. Also one third of my horse grass meadow, so called, which I bought of Mr. Bennet, beside what I shall hereafter bequeath to him

Item. I Give & bequeath to my beloved son Isaac Churchill & to his heirs & assigns forever, the following part of my homestead viz~, beginning at a heap of stones on the easterly side of the above said road, in the division line of the great lots, thence easterly by said road ‘till it comes to the road that leads from double brooks to my house, thence northerly by said road to a stake with stones about it, being about seven rods from a rock the easterly side of said road, and thence ranging north eighty seven degrees & a half easterly ‘till it comes to a maple tree marked, which is the south westerly corner of a piece of swamp or meadow, which I shall hereafter give to my Grandson Asaph, thence north sixty seven degrees and half easterly ‘till it comes to the meadow line, thence southerly by said meadow line till it comes to the southerly corner bound of my said homestead, thence by the southerly line of said homestead westerly to the aforesaid division line, thence by said division line to the bound first mentioned, the lands within these abovesd bound with the building thereon, also the following parcells of wood lands viz~ a part of that lot which I bought of Doctr LeBaron, that part of said lot northward of the road & westward of what I have given to my son Perez, also that part of my wood lot called the Smiths lot that layeth to the northward & westward of said road, ‘till it comes to the next division line, being all of said lot on that side of the way, also one third part of my cedar swamp, excepting one acre as above excepted, also one half of my double brooks meadow, so called, also one third part of my horse grass meadow, so called, also one half of my barn with the privileges thereunto belonging all the above premises to my son Isaac besides what I shall hereafter bequeath to him

Item—I will & bequeath to my beloved son Joseph Churchill & to his heirs & assigns forever, the following part of my homestead lands viz~ beginning at a stake with stones about it standing by the road which is the northerly bound of Isaac’s share, thence northerly by said road, ‘till it comes to the land of Jabez Churchill, thence easterly by said Jabez’s land ‘till it comes to the brook, thence down stream by the brook till it comes to Ambrose Shaw’s meadow thence westerly by sd Ambrose’s meadow ‘till it comes to the meadow line, thence southerly by the meadow line till it comes to a stake & stones standing on the meadow, it being a corner bound I shall mention in Asaph’s share, thence westerly by Asaph’s share fourteen rods to a small maple marked thence southerly nine rods & half to the maple mentioned in Isaac’s share, thence by Isaac’s line westerly to the bound first mentioned, with the buildings thereon, Also one third part of my cedar swamp, excepting what I have above excepted, also one third part of my horse grass meadow, so called, also all my Smith lot that layeth to the southward & eastward of the road, also a piece of the LeBaron lot on the south side of the road, ‘till it comes to what I gave Perez at rocky gutter bridge

Item. I will & bequeath to my beloved Grandson Asaph Churchill to his heirs & assigns forever, a certain lot of land, it being the hundred & fourth lot in the south purchase, so called, by estimation Forty & five acres, also a piece of swamp or meadow ground adjoining to what I gave to my son Isaac, his part in the homestead bounded beginning at a maple tree marked, mentioned in Isaac’s share of the homestead, thence from said maple north fifty seven degrees westerly nine rods, & a half to a small maple marked, thence north forty & a half degrees easterly, fourteen rods to a stake with stones about it in the meadow line, thence southerly by the meadow line ‘till it comes to Isaac’s share, thence south sixty seven & half degs westerly by Isaac’s share to the aforementioned maple tree by estimation one acre also one acre of cedar swamp to be taken off from my westerly lot in the south purchase, & to be taken off by a line across said lot parallel with the easterly end line so far westward so to make one acre, and also I discharge him from paying me back any thing that I paid towards the estate that fell to him by his Father Zebedee Churchill deceased; provided nevertheless that whereas the abovesaid Asaph Churchill doth justly owe me twenty five dollars, which he borrowed of me & neglects to pay the same; my will is therefore, that if the said Asaph shall discharge the said twenty five dollars to my Executors then the abovesaid premises are to be wholly his, otherwise the above described hundred & fourth lot in the south purchase shall be taken from sd Asaph’s share & divided among my other heirs, any thing in said Asaph’s share to the contrary notwithstanding

Item. I appoint & enjoin it upon my three sons, Perez, Isaac & Joseph Churchill’s, that they three shall maintain their Hond. mother Persis Churchill with a comfortable maintenance, during her natural life with food, raiment & lodging, suitable for an aged person, also, I Give to & order, that my wife Persis shall have all the houshold furniture that she brought with her when I married her, which is not consumed by wear, all the wearing apparell that I have provided for her and that the abovesaid furniture shall descend to her children, or to their heirs at her decease

Item. I will & bequeath to my beloved daughter Deliverance Wright one feather Bed, to make her equal to my other daughters in what I gave them heretofore

Item. I Give & bequeath to my Daughter Deliverance Wright, to the heirs of Deborah Cobb, & to Lydia Crocker, all my moveable Estate, not heretofore nor hereafter disposed of, in equal partnership among them

Item. I Give & bequeath to my three sons Perez, Isaac & Joseph, my Pew in the meeting house, also my wearing apparell, to be equally divided among them

Item. I Give & bequeath to my six children & my grandson Asalph in equal partnerships between them all my Cash of if any there be found all debts due to me at my decease, they paying all my just debts & funeral charges, provided nevertheless, in case I shall not leave Cash sufficient to pay my debts & other charges as above, then sd debts & charges shall be paid out of the personal estate and what shall then remain to be divided as above

Item. My will is, and I hereby constitute & appoint Nehemiah Cobb Esqr. of Carver & my son Perez Churchill joint Executors to this my last will & testament, hoping, all things herein contained will be kept and performed according to the true intent & meaning thereof. In witness whereof, I the said Perez Churchill have hereunto sett my hand and seal, this eighteenth day of March one thousand seven hundred & ninety seven

Signed, Sealed, pronounced & declared

by the said Perez Churchill as his last                                                                                             Perez Churchill                (seal)

will & testament in presence of us

                Jabez Churchill

                Thomas Weston

                Nehemiah Cobb

 

Presented for probate on 2 Nov. 1797 by Nehemiah Cobb Esqr. & Perez Churchill, the Executors therein named, and proved by Nehemiah Cobb Esqr. & Thomas Weston, two of the witnesses.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Peres Churchill, late of Middleborough, was appraised on 28 Nov. 1797 by Thomas Weston, William Atwood, & Isaac Shaw Lucas, and totaled $3094.73, including his homestead & Buildings, wood land, Cedar Swamps & meadows, valued at $2660. Nemiah Cobb Esqr., & Peres Churchill, the Executors to ye will of Peres Churchill, gave their oath to the inventory on 10 Dec. 1797.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 36, p. 248-251, and Vol. 37, p. 99-100, all from FHL microfilm #0550719.

 

 

Will of Elijah Clap of Middleborough, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1775) *

In the Name of God Amen The first Day of April in the Year of our Lord 1775 I Elijah Clap of Middleborough in the County of Plymouth Gentm: being very Sick & weak in Body but of Perfect mind & Memory thanks be given unto God for the Same and calling to mind the Mortality of my Body and knowing that it is Appointed for all Men once to Die Do make and ordain this my last Will and Testament that is to say Principally & first of all I give and Recomend my Soul into the Hand of God that gave it my Body I recommend to the earth to be Buried in a Christian like Manner at the discretion of my Executor hoping at the General Resurection I shall receive the Same again by the mighty Power of God and as Touching Such worldly Estate wherewith it hath Pleased God to Bless me with in this Life I give demise and dispose of the Same in manner & form following Viz  Imprimis I give & Bequeath to Hope my dearly Beloved Wife after Debts and funeral Charges are paid all my Moveable Estate out Door & Indoor together with all the Improvment of all my Real Estate & also the Improvement of all my Right in the Pew in the Meeting House untill my Son Manasseh Clap comes of age and then one Third during her Natural Life ~

Item I give & Bequeath to my Son Manassah Clap all my Real Estate with all the Buildings Orchard & fences thereunto belonging together with all my Right in the Pew in the Meeting House when he shall come of age ~

Item I give and Bequeath to my Daughter Susanna Tupper five Shillings to be paid when my Son Manasseh comes of Age

Item I give & Bequeath to my Daughter Hope Clap Junr the Sum of Six Pounds thirteen Shillings & four Pence to be paid when my Son Manasseh comes of age ~

Item I give & Bequeath to my Daughter Elizabeth Eddy five Shillings to be Paid when my Son Manasseh comes of Age

Item I give & Bequeath to my Daughter Hannah Clap Six Pounds thirteen Shillings & four Pence to be paid her when my Son Manasseh comes of Age ~

Item I give & Bequeath to my Daughter watestill Clap Six Pounds Thirteen Shillings & four Pence to be paid when my Son Manasseh comes of Age ~

Furthermore I do Constitute make & ordain my dearly beloved Wife Hope together with my Son Manassah Clap to be my Executors of this my last Will and Testament and I do hereby utterly Disallow Revoke & disanul all & every former Testaments Wills Legacies and Bequests and Executors by me in any Ways before Named Willed & bequeasted Ratifyed & Confirmed this & no other to be my last Will & Testament In Witness whereof I have hereunto Set my Hand & Seal the Day and Year Abovesd. ~

Signed Sealed Published

Prounounced and deliver’d                                                                                                Elijah Clap                         (seal)

by me in Presence of us

Benja Tucker

Jedediah Lyon

Benja. Tucker Junr.

 

Presented for probate on 4 March 1776 by Hope Clap, his widow, and Son Manasseh Clap, the Executors therein named, and proved by Benjamin Tucker and Benj Tucker Junr, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Hope and Manasseh, the before named Executors.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 24, p. 63-65, from FHL microfilm #0550713.

 

 

Will of Amasa Clark of Plymouth, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1843) *

        Be it known that I Amasa Clark of Plymouth, in said County of Plymouth Yeoman, being in feeble health, but of sound mind and memory do make publish and declare this instrument to be my last Will and testament in the words following to wit.

1 I give and bequeath to my beloved wife Mary Clark all my personal estate to be at her own disposal. I also give and bequeath to her the use and improvement of all my Real Estate during her natural life.

  And as it is my desire that my wife Mary Clark should be comfortably supported through life out of my estate, in case the bequest to her of my personal estate as above and the improvement of my real Estate should in the opinion of the Judge of Probate for this County be insufficient for that purpose, I do hereby authorise and empower my Executor hereafter named to sell and convey at private sale so much of my Real estate as shall in the opinion of said Judge be necessary for that purpose, the lot of woodland hereafter devised to Abiathar Hoxie Junior to be the last to be sold for that purpose.

2d I give and devise to Abiathar Hoxie Jun. and to his heirs and assigns subject to the above contingency my Woodlot situated in the Plain so called, adjoining the Woodland of Barnes, Marcia Allen and others containing about eighteen acres after the expiration of my Wifes life estate therein.

3d Out of the residue of my Estate, remaining at the decease of my said wife, if any estate remains unexpended except the above wood lot devised to Abiathar Hoxie Jun. I make the following bequests to wit. to Sally Curtis the wife of David Curtis ten dollars, to Mary Howland, the daughter of William Howland ten dollars and to Abigail Clark the daughter of William Clark five dollars to be paid in the order above named.

4th. I give and bequeath all the rest residue and remainder of my Estate whether Real of Personal after the expiration of my wife’s life Estate therein, not devised and bequeathed in the foregoing Clauses to the following Nephews and Nieces, to wit. Daniel Clark and Edward D. Clark Lydia Hoxie wife of Abiathar Hoxie Esther Burgess wife of Vinal Burgess, Experience Sampson wife of Hiram Sampson, Nathaniel Clark and Naomi Manter wife of Thomas Manter his heirs shall have her equal part, and Mary Finney widow of George Finney Jun. deceased the same to be divided equally among my Nephews and Nieces above named, to hold to them their heirs and assigns. To any Nephew or Niece not named above in this Will I do not make any devise or bequest.

I do hereby nominate and appoint Abiathar Hoxie to be Executor of this will

I testimony of each and all the things herein expressed I have hereto set my hand and seal this third day of March in the year Eighteen hundred and forty three.

                                                                                                                                                Amasa Clark                                     (seal)

Signed, sealed, published and declared by the above named Amasa Clark as and for his last will and Testament in presence of us and we at his request and in his presence and presence of each other have subscribed the same as witnesses.

                Barzillai Holmes

                Sally Holmes

                Caleb Morton

 

Presented for probate on the second Monday of Aug. 1843 by Abiathar Hoxie, the Executor therein named, and proved by Barzillai Holmes and Caleb Morton, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters Testamentary were granted to Abiatha Hoxie, the Executor therein named.

 

Abiathar Hoxie of Plymouth was granted Letters Testamentary on the Estate of Amasa Clark, late of Plymouth, Yeoman, on 14 Aug. 1843, with David Manter and Caleb Morton, both of Plymouth, as sureties.

Barzillai Holmes, Caleb Morton and Bartlett Holmes, all of Plymouth, were appointed to appraise the estate of Amasa Clark, late of Plymouth, on 14 Aug. 1843.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Captn Amasa Clark, late of Plymouth, Yeoman, was not dated, his real estate valued at $1088.20, and his personal estate valued at $207.00. Abiathar Hoxie, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on the first Monday of Dec. 1843.

 

Abiathar Hoxie of Bridgewater was granted Administration de bonis non with the Will annexed of the Estate of Amasa Clark, late of Plymouth, on 21 Feb. 1848, Abiathar Hoxie who was appointed Executor thereof having deceased without completing the administration, with Ichabod Morton and Vinal Burgess, of Plymouth, as sureties.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 85, pp. 387-389, 571-572, from FHL microfilm #0555268, Vol. 1G, p. 256, and Vol. 10A, p. 562.

 

 

Will of Cornelius Clark of Rochester, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1772) *

   I Cornelius Clark of Rochester in the County of Plymouth, yeoman, being advanced in years but through Gods Goodness of sound and disposing mind and memory & Calling to mind the uncertainty of this Life do make & ordain this my Last will & testament, Recommending my Soul to the merciful hands of God that Gave it & my body to burial in decent Christian manner after my decease at the discretion of my Executor hereafter named & as to such worldly Estate wherewith it hath pleased God to bless me with in this world, I Give & dispose of the same in the following manner ~

Imprimis –I Give to my beloved wife Susannah the use & improvement of the one third part of my Estate both Real & personal in the same way & manner that the Law Gives widows of husbands that die Intestate, also I Give to my said wife Susannah all my Live Stock of Creatures that I shall be the owner of at my decease also it is my will & I do hereby order my Son John Clark to keep for my said wife one Cow winter & Summer during her widowhood, She finding the Cow to be kept as aforesaid–I also Give to my said wife all my money that shall be due to me at my decease as above mentioned, upon Condition only that my said wife Surrender her thirds or Right of Dower in my personal Estate – I also Give my said wife the use & improvement of all my Indoor moveables during her being my widow ~

Item—I Give & bequeath to my Son John Clark his Heirs & assigns forever all my Homestead farm be the same more or Less, with all the buildings, orchards & fences upon the same, Excepting my said wife’s thirds in the same during her Life & then to be & Remain to my said Son John – also I Give to him the said John Clark the Same to be to him his heirs & assigns forever all my wood Lot Lying near the Long pond so Called, also I Give my said Son John all my farming tools & Carpenters tools also it is my will & I hereby order my said Son John to pay all my Just debts & funeral Charges

Item—I Give to my Son Jonathan Clarke one Dollar besides what I have Given him in Lands which he holds by deed from John Arnold, which is to be his part of my Estate Said Dollar to be paid by my Executor in a year after my decease ~

Item–I Give to my Son Perez Clark one dollar to be paid by my Executor in one year after my decease, that with what I have already Given him to be his part of my Estate

Item – I Give to my Grandson Simeon Clark, the Son of my Son Simeon Clark deceased five pounds Six Shillings & Eight pence Lawful money to be paid by my Executor in two years after my decease

Item—I Give to my daughter Elisabeth the wife of John Morse five pounds Six Shillings & Eight pence Lawful money to be paid by my Executor in two years after my decease, also I Give to my said daughter Elisabeth Morse all my Indoor moveables to be Recieved by her at my wifes death or marriage

Item–I Give to my Son John Clark his Heirs & assigns forever all the Estate both Real & personal, whatsoever or wheresoever the same is or may be found that I have not in this my will Given & disposed of, & I do hereby Constitute & appoint my said Son John Clark Sole Executor to this my Last will & testament in witness whereof I have hereunto Set my hand & Seal this twenty third day of June A.D. 1772. ~

Signed Sealed, published, pronounced &

declared to be the Last will & testament of                                                                   Cornelius Clark                                (seal)

the said Cornelius Clark in presence of us

                William Palmer

                William Bassett

                Nathan Nye junr

                Joseph Bassett

                Nathl. Ruggles

 

Presented for probate on 3 Sept. 1783 by John Clark, the Executor therein named, and proved by William Bassett and Joseph Bassett, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to John Clark, the before named Executor.

David Wing Esqr, Melatiah White, and Joseph Bassett, yeomen, all of Rochester, were appointed to appraise the estate of Cornelius Clark, late of Rochester, yeoman, on 3 Sept. 1783. The Inventory, dated 3 Sept. 1783, totaled £340.11.~, including his real estate valued at £320. John Clark, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 3 Sept. 1783.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 29, p. 43-45, from FHL microfilm #0550715.

 

 

Will of Dr. Joseph Clark of Middleborough, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1843) *

        In the name of God Amen. I Joseph Clark of Middleborough in the County of Plymouth, and Commonwealth of Massachusetts of sound and disposing mind do make and publish this my last will and testament.

First. I give and bequeath all my Estate of which I shall die seized, both personal and real to my three daughters, Susan S. Clark, Hannah G. Clark and Augusta Clark to their heirs and assigns forever –

Second  I give and bequeath to my Two sons Thomas Clark and Joseph Clark 3. one dollar each, in addition to what I have Already given them.

Third I give and bequeath to my Daughter Lucy Sproat the widow of James Sproat deceased one Dollar in addition to what I have already given her – And I give and bequeath to the Children of my deceased daughter Rebecca Haskins that shall be living at my decease one dollar each.

Lastly I appoint Augusta Clark to be my Executrix of this my last will and Testament, hereby revoking all others

Signed, sealed published and declared by me the said Joseph Clark, to be my last will and testament, and in witness whereof I have set my hand and seal this six day of October in the year Eighteen hundred and forty three.

                                                                                                                                                Joseph Clark                                     (seal)

Signed Sealed, Witnessed, and declared

by the said Joseph Clark to be his

last Will and testament in presence

of us who at his request and in his presence

and in the presence of each other Witnessed

the same by the signing our names

                                Jos. Clark 3d.

                                Zilpah M. Clark

                                S. B. Pickens

 

Presented for probate on the first Tuesday of Nov. 1843 by Augusta Clark, the Executor therein named, and proved by Joseph Clark 3d, Zilpah M. Clark and S. B. Pickens, the Witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters Testamentary were granted to Augusta Clark, the executor.

 

Augusta Clarke, of Middleborough, was granted Letters Testamentary on the Estate of Joseph Clark, late of Middleborough, Physician, on 7 Nov. 1843, with Eliab Ward and Allen Shaw, both of Middleborough, as sureties.

Ebenezer Pickens, Thomas Doggett and Eliab Ward, all of Middleborough, were appointed to appraise the estate of Joseph Clark, late of Middleborough, on 7 Nov. 1843.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Joseph Clark, late of Middleborough, Physician, was dated 11 May 1844, totaled $614.50, including his real estate valued at $375. Augusta Clark, the Executor, gave her oath to the inventory on the last Tuesday of May 1844, and she was granted license to sell the personal estate of the deceased on 28 May 1844.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 85, p. 447-449, from FHL microfilm #0555268, Vol. 1G, p. 260, and Vol. 86, p. 234-235.

 

 

Will of Eunice Clift of Marshfield, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1832) *

In the name of God, Amen, this twenty ninth day of December One thousand eight hundred and thirty two, I Eunice Clift of Marshfield, in the County of Plymouth, and Commonwealth of Massachusetts, being of sound and perfect mind, and blessed be God for the same do make this my last Will & Testament and first of all I give & recommend my soul to God that gave it me and my body to the dust decently to be buried and as touching such worldly goods and estate as God hath blessed me with in this life, I give & dispose of same in the following manner.

      First, I give unto my brother Abijah Otis my Mahogany dining table and my large Maple Desk.

      2d  I give unto the Wife of my brother Abijah Otis my brass fire set.

      3d  I give unto my niece Eunice Otis the daughter of David Otis six silver tea spoons, marked E. O.

      4th. I give unto my niece Betsey Otis the daughter of David Otis One string of my gold beads.

      5th  I give unto my three nieces, Deborah, Betsey and Eunice Otis the daughters of David Otis to be divided equally between them three large table spoons marked P. H. and three small tea spoons marked P. H. and my set of China Ware and one Bed and my large looking glass.

      6th. I give unto Deborah T. Clift one bed and the clothing thereto belonging and the suit of Curtains. Also the High case of Drawes that stand in the Bedroom with the said Bed and the Candle stand. Also all the sheep I may have at my decease.

      7th  I give unto Sally Witherly my other string of Gold Beads (for her to have her choice of them) and my best black silk gown.

      8th  I give unto Joseph Bryant all the money, after all my just debts are paid out of it, and demands for money that I may have at my decease and my best bed and the clothing belonging thereto with the Curtains. Also my Chaise and my clock.

      9th  I give unto Rachel Rogers the Widow of Samuel Rogers deceased all the live stock that I may have at my decease except what I have given to Deborah T. Clift.

      10th  And lastly I give unto Deborah T. Clift all the remainder of my property that I have not heretofore given away of every kind and for the said Deborah to pay all my funeral charges.

            If the persons who I have given away my estate to should not be living at my decease it is to go to their heirs or assigns.

            I nominate & appoint my friend Edward P. Little Executor of this my last Will & Testament.

                In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this day and year above written 29th day of December 1832.

                                                                                                                                                Eunice Clift                                        (seal)

Signed, sealed, published, pronounced and declared by me the Testator as and for my last Will & Testament in presence of the Witnesses and at my request set their name

        Lewis Clapp

        Edy Little

        Sarah F. Rogers

 

The Instrument purporting to be the last Will & Testament of Eunice Clift, late of Marshfield, Widow, was presented for probate on 25 Nov. 1834, and proved by Lewis Clapp and Sarah F. Rogers, two of the subscribing witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Edward P. Little of Marshfield, the Executor, on 25 Nov. 1834.

The Inventory of the Estate of Eunice Clift, Widow, late of Marshfield, was appraised by John Ford Jr., Howland Rogers, and Alfred Rogers on 24 Nov. 1834, and totaled $404.87, including $300 in cash, but no real estate. Edward P. Little, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 25 Nov. 1834.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 76, p. 501-504, from FHL microfilm #0555263.

 

 

Will of Andrew Cobb of Middleborough, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1800) *

In the Name of God Amen. I Andrew Cobb of Middleborough in the County of Plymouth & Comonwealth of Massachusetts Gentleman being weak of body, yet of a sound mind & memory, blessed be God for the same, considering the mortality of the body, that it is appointed for all men once to die, do make & ordain this my last will & testament, to be firm & inviolable forever, in manner following—vizt.—

I Give and bequeath to my well beloved wife Experience, as her thirds or right of dower; the improvement of one third part of all my Real Estate, during her natural life; also do give and bequeath to her, all my indoor moveables or houshold furniture & articles for houshold use, as her own property & at her own disposal; also one good Cow & four Sheep as her own property.—

I Give and bequeath to my Son Gershom Cobb, one hundred dollars in Silver money, to be paid to him by my Son Lewis Cobb in two years after my decease; also, I give & bequeath to him my said son Gershom all my wearing apparell

I Give & bequeath to my Son Andrew Cobb Eighty Dollars to be paid to him by my Son Lewis Cobb in two years after my decease

I Give and bequeath to my son Lewis Cobb, all my Real Estate of all kinds, excepting the improvement of one third thereof, which is herein before given to my aforesaid wife to improve; during her natural life. I also, give to him my said son Lewis, all my Personal Estate of all kinds, all to him, his heirs & assigns forever (yet excepting what I have herein before disposed of) including to him, all my dues & demands. And, I hereby order that my said son Lewis shall pay out of what I have herein given to him, all my just debts & funeral charges and also the legacies herein before mentioned

        Notwithstanding what is herein before mentioned, I Give & bequeath to my aforesaid Sons, Andrew & Lewis, my Pew & part of another Pew in the meeting house of the first Precinct in said Middleborough equally between their heirs & assigns forever. And my will is, and I hereby constitute my said Son Lewis Cobb, to be Executor to this my last will & testament. Thus hoping that this my last will & testament will be carefully kept & performed according to the true intent & meaning thereof. I commit my Soul to God who gave it, and my body to the dust to a decent burial. In witness whereof, I, the first named Andrew Cobb, have hereunto Set my hand & Seal, this third day of June in the year of our Lord, one thousand & eight hundred.—

Signed Sealed & Declared, by the said

Andrew Cobb, to be his last will &                                                                                  Andrew Cobb. —                              (seal)

testament in presence of us

                James Thomas

                Churchill Thomas

                Nehemiah Bennet

 

Presented for probate on 13 Aug. 1800 by Lewis Cobb ye Executor therein named, and proved by James Thomas & Nemiah Bennet Esqr., two of the witnesses. No inventory was recorded for his estate.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 37, p. 297-298, from FHL microfilm #0550719.

 

 

Will of Benjamin Cobb of Carver, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1811) *

  In the Name of God amen I Benjamin Cobb of Carver in the County of Plymouth Yeoman, being weak in body but of sound & perfect Mind & Memory – blessed be almighty God for the same, do make this my last will and Testament in manner & form following (that is to say). –

        First I give and recommend my Soul into the hands of Almighty God, who gave it, & my Body to the Earth to be decently interred at the discretion of my Executor, and the worldly Estate that hath pleased God to bless me with, I will and bequeath in the following Manner. – viz –

        Item.  I will and bequeath to my beloved wife Sarah Cobb the Improvement of one half of my Real Estate and one half of the live Stock during her natural Life, and the Improvement of all the indoor moveables during her natural Life & after her decease said Moveables together with her wearing apparel to be equally divided between my three Daughters hereafter named –

        I also will and bequeath to my beloved Son Ebenezer Cobb one quarter of my wearing apparel & Fifteen Dollars to be paid him by my Sons Charles & Ransom hereafter named to him his Heirs or assigns in one Year after my decease –

        I also will and bequeath to my beloved Sons Charles Cobb & Ransom Cobb in equal Shares all my Real Estate of every name whatsoever being & lying in Carver, together with one half of my wearing Apparel & the whole of my Blacksmith Tools & the whole of my Farming utensils, & the whole of my live Stock, except what I have reserved for my Wife Sarah, and what money I have on hand if any there be, and the debts due to me by their paying all my just debts, charges of Settlement &c & paying to my other Children what I order them by this Instrument to pay. And Whereas my Mother Rebecca Ransom did not have her thirds set off from my Father Ebenezer Ransom’s Estate, therefore it is incumbent on me to provide her a Support. I therefore order the sd. Charles & Ransom to provide her with Food & Raiment, Lodging, doctoring & Nursing suitable for an aged person during her natural Life, provided she does not have her thirds set off from said Estate, all the above I give & order my said Sons Charles & Ransom to their Heirs and Assigns forever –

        I also give and bequeath to my beloved Son Otis Cobb twenty Dollars when he shall be twenty one Years of Age if he shall live to that age, I also order that he shall be put to some Mechanick Trade to learn the same, all which the sd Charles & Ransom are to pay & see done &c. –

        I also give and bequeath to my beloved Daughter Olive Bennet the one third of my indoor Moveables & one third of her Mother’s wearing Apparel after the decease of her sd Mother, & ten Dollars to be paid her by the said Charles & Ransom in one year after my decease. –

        I also give and bequeath to my beloved daughter Sarah Cobb, to live in my House & have a right to keep her things in the same & a place to cook in said House &c. & one third of my indoor Moveables & one third of her Mother’s wearing Apparel after the decease of her sd. Mother. The said Sarah to occupy said House so long as she shall remain single or unmarried, & also ten Dollars to be paid her by the said Charles & Ransom Cobb in one Year after my decease –

        And I also give & bequeath to my beloved Daughter Martha Cobb to live in my House & have a right to keep her things in the same, & a place to cook in sd. House so long as she remains single or unmarried, & one third of my indoor moveables & one third of her Mother’s wearing Apparel after the decease of her said Mother and also ten Dollars to be paid her by the said Charles & Ransom in one Year after my decease –

        Lastly – I do hereby appoint and constitute my beloved Son Charles Cobb sole Executor of this my last will and Testament, hoping all things herein contained will be kept & performed, according to the true Intent & meaning thereof & hereby revoking all former Wills by me made

In Witness whereof I the said Benjamin Cobb have hereunto set my hand & Seal the sixteenth day of February in the Year of our Lord one Thousand eight hundred & eleven –

Signed, sealed published & declared by the above

named Benjamin Cobb to be his last Will & Testament

in the presence of us, who have hereunto subscribed

our Names as Witnesses in the presence of the Testator                                             Benjamin Cobb                                (seal)

                John Shaw

                Neheh. Cobb

                Levi Vaughan –

 

Presented for probate on 15 April 1811 by Charles Cobb, the Executor therein named, and proved by the Revd. John Shaw and Nehemiah Cobb Esqr., two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Charles Cobb, the before named Executor.

 

Nehemiah Cobb Esqr., Isaiah Tilson, Gentleman, and Levi Vaughan were appointed to appraise the Estate of Benjamin Cobb, late of Carver, Blacksmith, on 15 Apr. 1811. The Inventory, dated 22 Apr. 1811, totaled $2207.38, his real estate valued at $1889, which included his homestead farm valued at $1800. Charles Cobb, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 30 Apr. 1811.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 43, pp. 397-399, 440, from FHL microfilm #0550902.

 

 

Will of Cornelius Cobb of Plymouth, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1822) *

In the name of God, Amen, I Cornelius Cobb of Plymouth in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts Yeoman, of sound and disposing mind and memory, do make and ordain this my last Will & Testament:   First, I recommend my Soul to the mercy of God who gave it, and my Body to a decent burial humbly praying for a glorious resurrection through Jesus Christ.

        Secondly, after my just debts are all paid I give and bequeath my worldly Estate as follows. First I give and bequeath to my daughter Betsey Cobb Eighty three cents per week from the month of June A.D. One thousand eight hundred & eleven to the present time for keeping my house for me, and attention to me, and the same sum weekly ‘till my decease if she keeps my house so long, deducting from said sum what I have already paid her towards the same, or what I may hereafter pay her on that account. Also I give and bequeath to my said daughter Betsey all her late deceased Mother’s wearing apparel & furniture that she brought me at her marriage.

        Secondly, I give and bequeath to my son Cornelius Cobb and my daughter Betsey Cobb and my Granddaughter Elizabeth Cobb, daughter of my son Isaac E Cobb deceased, the whole of my Estate both Real & Personal, lying in Plymouth aforesaid or elsewhere to be equally divided between them, excepting the sum of Nine hundred dollars which I supplied my said son Isaac E Cobb, deceased, with, for his education, this nine hundred dollars to be deducted in the division of my estate from that portion of my estate which I have given my said Grand daughter Elizabeth, and to be added to the shares in my Estate, of my son Cornelius and Daughter Betsey to be equally divided between them, said nine hundred dollars in value of my Estate to be over and above one third of my Estate to my said son and daughter each one of them a third part of my Estate, and the nine hundred dollars over and above to be divided between them two.

        Lastly, I nominate and appoint my son Cornelius Cobb sole Executor of this my last Will & Testament.,  In testimony whereof I the said Cornelius Cobb have hereunto set my hand and seal, this fifth day of March A.D. One thousand eight hundred & twenty two.

        Signed sealed & declared to be his last Will & Testament, in

presence of us.

        Roland E. Cotton                                                                                                        Cornelius Cobb

        Geo. F. Cobb

        Rosseter Cotton

 

Probated on 15 Feb. 1830, and proved by Rosseter Cotton and Roland E Cotton, two of the witnesses. Letters of administration granted to Cornelius Cobb, of Hanson, Trader.

 

Rosseter Cotton, Joseph Bartlett and Benjamin M. Watson, Esquires, all of Plymouth, were appointed to appraise the estate of Cornelius Cobb, late of Plymouth, yeoman, on 15 Feb. 1830. The Inventory, dated 8 May 1830, totaled $3092.03, including his real estate valued at $2766.50, and some livestock. Cornelius Cobb, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 17 May 1830.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 69, pp. 1-2, 190-191, from FHL microfilm #0555260.

 

 

Will of Ebenezer Cobb of Kingston, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1793) *

In the Name of God Amen.– I Ebenezer Cobb of Kingston in the County of Plymouth, being at present of sound mind & memory, tho’ far advanced in age & sensible that I cannot long continue in this world, in order to settle my worldly concerns, do make & ordain this my last will & testament, as follows—vizt.~

Imprimis – I commit my soul to God, as into the hands of a faithful Creator, and my body to the dust, in certain hope of a future resurrection, thereof unto eternal life, to be decently interred by my Executor, hereafter named—

Item.– I Give and bequeath unto my Son Seth Cobb, all the Lot of upland that I own on the northerly side of the country road, lying between the land of Thomas Cooper on the easterly side, & the land of George Partridge Esqr. & others on the westerly side, excepting two acres of said upland next adjoining my meadow at the foot of said lot, reserving the privilege of passing and repassing through said lot to & from the meadow, where it may be most convenient; and, I also give unto my said Son Seth, a lot of upland & meadow, that I own in the town of Plymton, and also one lot of wood land which I bought of Elkanah Cushman, being that lot that lays adjoining to the lands of Sylvester Holmes & Ebenezer Cushman in said Kingston, I also give unto my said Son Seth, all the demands that I have against him on book accounts or obligations for money, all & singular the above bequest, I make unto my said son Seth on condition that he make no demand on my Executor for any thing due or supposed to be due from me to him on book accounts or obligations for money, otherwise if he does make demand of any sum, so supposed to be due, so much shall be deducted from what I have above devised to him, otherwise all the above bequest shall be & remain to him & his heirs & assigns forever, as a good estate in fee simple.

Item – I Give & bequeath unto the children of my late son Ebenezer deceased, the sum of two hundred pounds, lawful money, to be paid to them by my Executor in twelve months after my decease at furthest, in the following proportions-vizt-to Sylvanus the oldest son twenty pounds, & to each of the others (twelve in number) fifteen pounds, and if either of them should die without heirs, lawfully begotten of his or her body, the surviving brothers & sisters are to have his or her share equally divided amongst them, and, I also give up all demands on book accounts or any obligations for money, that I may have against my said son Ebenezer, on condition that his heirs or administrator make no demand of any debt due or supposed to be due from me to my said son Ebenezer, if they do, then the demands on both sides are to be adjusted, & the ballance paid where it may fall due.—

Item—I Give & bequeath to my Daughter Lydia Pratt the sum of Fifty Pounds Lawful Money, to be paid by my Executor, in twelve months after my decease at furthest

Item.—I Give & bequeath unto my Daughter Sarah Lucas, the sum of Twenty Pounds Lawful Money, over & above what I have heretofore given her, to be paid by my Executor in twelve months after my decease, at furthest.—

Item – I Give & bequeath unto my Son John Cobb, all my Estate both Real & Personal (not before herein disposed of) of whatever name or nature it may be, or wherever it may be found, to him, & his heirs & assigns forever, in case he survives me, but if he should not survive me, my will is, that it shall go & belong to his my said son John’s heirs, reserving to the widow of my said son, if he should leave one, the use & improvement of my homestead farm, during her life, or as long as she shall continue my said son John’s widow,– The above bequest I make to my said Son John & his heirs on this special condition – vizt. that he or they shall pay all my just debts & funeral charges, & pay all the legacies herein before devised & bequeathed, and do & perform all things contained & ordered in this my last will & testament according to the true intent & meaning thereof, and also that he or they maintain my daughter Mercy Cobb in a comfortable and decent manner, during her natural life, with such food, cloathing & accommodations & attendance as her circumstances may require.– And I do hereby ordain and appoint my said son John Cobb, Sole Executor to this my last will & testament, in case he survives me, but if he should not survive me, then, I appoint William Cobb the oldest son of my said son John Cobb sole Executor to this will.–and this instrument I hereby declare to be my last will & testament, revoking & annulling all former wills by me made, or said to be made.—In Testimony whereof I have hereunto Set my hand - & Seal this fourth day of September in the year of our Lord one thousand Seven Hundred & Ninety three –

In Presence of                                                                                                                                      his

  William Drew                                                                                                                     Ebenezer  X  Cobb              (seal)

   Isaac Brewster                                                                                                                                  mark

    Job Drew

 

Presented for probate on 17 Dec. 1801 by John Cobb, the Executor therein named, and proved by Isaac Brewster and Job Drew, two of the witnesses, William Drew Esqr. being since deceased. Letters Testamentary on the estate of Ebenezer Cobb were granted to John Cobb, of Kingston, on 15 Jan. 1802, with Samuel Cole and Barnabas Hedge, both of Plymouth, as sureties.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 38, p. 6-8, from FHL microfilm #0550720.

 

 

Will of John Cobb of Plymouth, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1712) *

In The Name of God Amen. I John Cob of the Town & County of Plymouth in New England Yeoman being weak and Infirm of body but thro’ gods Mercy of a Sound and disposeing mind & memory, Do make & Ordain this my Last Will and Testament as followeth, Viz, I do in the first place Give up my Immortal soul to God that gave it, and my frail body to the Earth to be decently buryed According to the discretion of my Executor below named and Appointed hopeing for a glorious Resurection too Life and Immortality thro Christ the first Born from the Dead And as to what Temporal Estate it hath pleased God to Bless me withall, my Just Debts and funeral Charges being first paid I dispose of the same as followeth.

Imprs. I give and Bequeath to my Loveing wife Martha Cob for her Comfortable Support and Susbistance Dureing her Natural Life my Dwelling house with the peace of Land Thereto Adjoyning being about five or Six Acres more or Less which I reserved out of my homestead when I Sold to my two Sons Elisha & James hereby Granting unto my Said wife (if She Stand in Need of it power to Sell the Same only my Son James to have the refusal of Sd. house & Land if my Sd. wife Se Cause to Sell it) at what it shall be vallued to be worth by men Indiferantly Chosen to prize the Same Item it is my Will that in Case my Said wife shall not in her Life time make any disposal of Sd. house & Land shall be Judged worth at my Said wife’s Decease.

Item I give and Bequeath to my Son John Cob his heirs and Assignes for ever all my Lands and meadows even my whole Estate and Interest in the Township of Middleborough, as also my four Acres of meadow at Winatuxet in the Township of Plimpton

Item I give and bequeath to my Son James Cob his heirs and Assignes for ever my Thirty Acre Lott Lying in the Woods with all the remainder of my Lands or Interest in lands in the Town ships of Plymouth & Plympton.

Item It is my Will that whereas my two Sons Elisha & James to Whome I Sold my homestead Stand Obliged to me by Sundry Bills under their hands & Seals for the payment of Sundry Sums of money Expressed in Said Bills to be Currant money of New England. my will I say is that Said money be paid in Such mony and at Such rate or weight as ordinarily passes between man & man in Common Tradeing, at the Respective times When Said money Shall be paid. And further I Do by this my Last Will & Testament Give to my Sd. two sons five pounds a peice to be deducted out of the Last Bills of Payment.

Item I Give and Bequeath to my Daughtr. Patiance Bennet The Sum of five pounds to be paid out of my personal Estate after my Sd. wifes Decease before any Division to be made, giveing also power to my Said wife to give her more in her Life time if She think Conveniant

Item it is my Will that after my Said wife’s Decease all my personal Estate that shall Remain unspent, Viz, all my Goods Chattells moneys Just Debts due to my Estate and all whatsoever of my moveable Estate be Divided Equally between my Childrean, viz, John Cob, Patiance Bennet Ebenezer Cob, Elisha Cob, & James Cob, only my Son John to have a Double Portion. Item I do by these Presents Constitute ordain & Appoint my Sd. Son John Cob Sole Executor of this my Last Will & Testament, hereby Revokeing and makeing utterly null and void all former Wills & Testaments by me heretofore made, Ratiefying, Confirming & Allowing this and no Other as my Last Will & Testament. And In Wittness hereof I the Said John Cob have hereunto Sett my hand and Seal this fourth Day of February Anno Domini One Thousand Seven hundread & Eleven 1711/12

Signed Sealed & Declared to be his                                                                 John       Cob

Last Will & Testamt. In prsence of us                                                                                his   X   marke                  (seal)

Nathaniel Clarke

Samuel Nelson

Ephraim Little Junr.

 

Probated on 2 Apr. 1715, and proved by Mr. Ephraim Little, Mr. Nathaniel Clarke and Samuel Nelson.

 

An Inventory of The Goods & Chattels of John Cobb of Plymouth Decd. taken May 25th 1715 by John Dyer, James Barnaby, and Francis Addams, but not totaled. Martha Cob, Relict Widdow of John Cob, late of Plymouth, gave her oath to the inventory on 22 June 1715.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 3, p. 345-347, from FHL microfilm #0550509.

 

 

Will of John Cobb Sr. of Middleborough, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1727) *

In the Name of God Amen I John Cob senr. of the Town of Middleborough in the County of Plimouth in New England being weak in body but of a sound & perfect minde & memory praise be to Almighty God for it do make & ordain this my present Last Will & Testament in maner & form following that is to say first & Principally I commit & comend my soul into the hands of Almighty God & my body to the Earth to be decently buried at the descretion of my Executor hereafter named and as for my worldly Estate I give & dispose thereof as followeth first I will that all my debts & funerall Charges shall be paid & discharged.

Item I Give to my beloved wife Rachel Cob my dwelling house where I now dwell dureing the whole term of her naturall life, together with all my moveable Estate within doors & without with all my moneys to be absolutely at her dispose forever Excepting my old oxen & my mare. my will is that my Executor maintain my sd wife three Cows both with & allways[?] & fodder good & convenient both winter & summer & twelve bushells of Corn yearly & that she have half the profetts of my orchard all which to be performed by him dureing the whole term of her naturall life Item I Give all my homestead to my son John Cob Except my dwelling house which I have Reserved to my wife to him his heirs & assignes forever: Excepting my three twenty acres both which I now Improve which after his decease I Give to his two sons namely Gershom Cob & John Cob to them & their heirs & assignes forever with the appurtenances thereunto belonging. Item I Give to my son James Cob the dwelling house where he now dwells with all my land thereto adjoyning to him & his heirs & assignes forever Item I Give to my three daughters namly Martha Simons Patience Tinkham & Rachel Standish my whole Share of land in the twelve mens purchase in Middleborough abovesd with my lot of land in the madmaros neck so called & my lot of land in affawamset neck to them & their heirs & assignes forever to be equally amonghst them divided & my two oxen & mare above exprest I Give to my two daughters namly Martha Simons & Patience Tinkham or the value of them in money to be equally divided between them all the rest of my lands & meadows & swamps in Middleborough & Plimton I Give to my two sons that is to say to my son John Cob two thirds & to James Cob one third to them & their heirs & assignes forever Item my Will is that my three yoak of oxen now in the possession of John Cob & James Cob & Moses Standish be & remain to as their own proper Estate And I do by this my last will & Testament ordain & appoint & Constitute my son John Cob sole Executor of this my sd last will & Testament In Witness whereof I the sd John Cob senr have hereunto set my hand & seal this twenty ninth Day of May in the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred twenty & seven

Signed Sealed published & declared in

the presence of us                                                                                                                                John Cob                            (seal)

John Bennett

Jonathan Fuller

Shubael Tomson

 

Whereas it hath pleased Almighty God to call to his Mercy the other day my dear Wife mentioned within in my last will & Testament I have thought fit to add this short schedule to that my declared last Will & Testament which I do confirm in every Article & ratifie saveing what is therein mentioned to my sd Wife now deceased & of those moveables my desire & will is that my Executor do out of them pay to each of my daughters Martha Patience & Rachel fiveteen pounds to each of them & when they have so paid to each of them sd sum & sums that the Remainder of my moveables be Equally divided between my sons & my daughters saving that I Give to my sons my own Wearing Cloathes & to my daughters all the wearing Cloathes yt were hers to be equally divided between them & also I Give to my son James Cobb the Cow which he now hath that was my dear wives. And hereby Ratify & confirm my sd Will & this as an Appendix thereto allowing of this & no other. In Witness hereto I the sd John Cob senr have hereunto set my hand & seal this twenty eighth day of September one thousand seven hundred & twenty seven.

Signed Sealed Published pronounced

declared before us Witnesses

Joseph Bennett                                                                                                                    John Cob                            (seal)

Shubael Tomson

Ebenezer Cobb Jur.

 

Proved by Jonathan Fuller and Shubael Tomson on 16 Nov. 1727, proved by John Bennett on 2 Feb. 1727[/8], proved by Ebenezer Cobb on 2 Feb. 1727/8, and proved by Joseph Bennett on 6 Mar. 1727[/8]. Administration of the estate of John Cobb, late of Middleborough, was granted to his son John Cobb on 8 Mar. 1728.

 

The Inventory of the Reall & Personall Estate of John Cob of Middleborough was appraised by John Bennet, James Soul, and John Soul on 10 Jan. 1727[/8], not totaled, but his homestead and lands were valued at £600, his meadows in Plimton & Middleborough were valued at £120, and the land whereon James Cob dwells was valued at £110. John Cobb, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 2 Feb. 1727/28.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 5, p. 528-531, from FHL microfilm #0550511.

 

 

Will of John Cobb Jr. of Middleborough, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1750) *

In The Name of God Amen I John Cobb Junr. of Middleborough in the County of Plimouth in Newengland Being Very Sick and Weak of Body but of a Sound & Disposing memory & understanding Blessed by god for the Same Wherefore Calling to mind the Mortality of my Body & Knowing that it is appointed for all men once to dye do make & ordaine this to be my Last Will and Testament to Stand and Remaine firm & Inviolable for Ever prinsipaly & first of all I give & Recommend my Soul into the hands of god that gave it & my body I Recommend unto the Dust to be Buried in a Decent Christen Burial at the Descrition of my Executor nothing Douting but at the general Resurection I Shall Receive the Same a gain & as Touching Such Worldly Estate Where With god hath Blesed me in this Life I do Dispose of the Same in the following manor & forme

Imprimis—I give and bequeath unto my True & Well Beloved Wife Prescilla the Whole use & Improvement of all my Whole Estate Both Real and personal So Long as Shee Shall Remain my My Widdow My Just Debts and funaral Charges being first paid out of the Same—Item—I give and Bequeath unto my only Son John Cobb the Whole of my Real Estate to Come into possessoin of the Same Immediately after the death or marriage of my aforesaid Wife to him & his hairs & assigns for Ever & he Shall pay the Sum of Six pounds fourteen Shillings Lawful money unto my only Daughter Martha Cobb When She arrives unto the age of Eighteen years

Item I give & bequeath unto my aforesaid Daughter Martha Cobb all my movable Estate Both within & Without Doors that Shall Remain after the Decease or Marriage of my aforesd Wife & at ye age of Eighteen years Shee Shall Receive the Sum of Six pounds fourteen Shillings Lawfull money as aforesaid from my aforesd Son John Cobb and further my Will is that my Beloved Wife Priscilla Cobb be the Executer of this my Last Will & Testament thus hoping that this my Last Will & Testement will be Kept & performed according to the true intent & meaning thereof & in Testimony hereof I the aforesaid John Cobb Junr. have hereunto Set my hand & Seal this 14th Day of June one thousand Seven hundred and fifty (1750)                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                           John Cobb          (Seal)

Signed Sealed Delivered published pronounced

and Declared by the sd John Cobb Junr. To be his Last Will &

Testament in ye presence of us

Ephraim Thomas

John Tomson

Seth Tinkham

 

Presented for probate on 11 July 1750 the ye Exx therein named, and proved by Ephraim Thomas and John Tomson.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 12, p. 55, from FHL microfilm #0551539.

 

 

Will & Codicil of Nathan Cobb of Plymouth, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1773) *

In the Name of God Amen.—I Nathan Cobb of Plymton in the County of Plymouth, in the Province of the Massachusetts Bay in New England, weaver, knowing that it is appointed for all men once to die, advancing in years, tho’ of a sound mind & understanding to dispose of my estate which God hath blessed me with, do make & ordain & constitute this my last will & testament, hereby revoking & disannulling all other former wills or testaments of what name or kind soever—

Imprimis.—I commit my soul to God, hoping for mercy through the merits of Jesus Christ, for the pardon of my sins & acceptance with God, and Salvation by Jesus Christ; and my body, to be buried in the earth in a decent christian manner, at the sole expence of my Executor, hereafter named, expecting a glorious resurrection, to eternal life, and the second appearing of our Lord Jesus Christ—

Item.—I Give to my beloved wife Joanna Cobb the sole improvement of all my estate, both real & personal during her natural life, excepting what I shall order to be taken possession by my Son William Cobb at my decease—

Item.—I Give to my Son Nehemiah Cobb, all my Real Estate, live Stock & out door moveables, to him; his heirs & assigns forever, he paying my just debts & funeral charges, but not to come into possession of the real estate ‘till after the decease of my wife Joanna Cobb saving, as above, the sole improvement of my real estate & indoor moveables to my beloved wife Joanna Cobb, during her natural life, and that my Executor hereafter named shall bear the sole expence of supporting my wife in a decent comfortable manner, in sickness and in health, during her natural life; and at her decease to bury her in a decent christian manner, at his charge & expence wholly; I also give to my Son Nehemiah Cobb the half of my Pew in the meeting house in the Second Parish in Plymton, and my Interest in Plymton Library No. 2.

Item.—I Give to my Grand-Daughter Deborah Cole the Daughter of Edward Cole of Plymton, all the houshold furniture that was her mother’s as the Bed & Bedding, Chest & all that is in it, as linnen, & all the other articles in it, chairs, table, Pewter & all the Iron ware that was her mother’s, she to come into possession of the same at the age of one and twenty years or sooner, if married, and also a right to live in my house as long as her grandmother shall live, if not married.

Item.—I Give to my Son William Cobb, my weaving tackling as Loom, Sleys & warping bars, to take possession of the same at my decease.

Item—I Give to my children, William Cobb, Timothy Cobb, Nathan Cobb, Ebenezer Cobb, Joseph Cobb, Benjamin Cobb, Nehemiah Cobb, & Elisabeth Samson, the wife of John Samson, all my indoor moveables, to be equally divided between them, after the decease of my wife, reserving to my wife Joanna Cobb, the sole improvement of my indoor moveables, excepting what I have given to my son William Cobb, provided, I decease before her.

Lastly—I Constitute, appoint & order Nehemiah Cobb Sole Executor to this my last will & testament, confirming this, and revoking all others, he the said Nehemiah supporting my wife, as above expressed & fulfilling all other conditions in this will enjoined him.—In Testimony whereof I have Set my hand & Seal to this my last will & testament, This twelfth day of May, in the year of our Lord, One thousand, Seven hundred & seventy three—1773 —

Signed, Sealed, Pronounced &                                                                                          Nathan Cobb                                     (seal)

Declared to be my last will &

testament in presence of—

Testes – Daniel Howland

                 John Howland junr.

                 John Howland

 

This Instrument Testifieth that I Nathan Cobb of Plymton in the county of Plymouth Commonwealth of Massachusetts, being of a disposing mind and in health do annex & Seal on to my last will & testament, this Codicil, to the intent, as much as in me lies to prevent future trouble or difficulty among my children after my decease, confirming my last will & testament to which this instrument is sealed. I do hereby say that, if any of my children whose names are mentioned in my last will & testament shall, after my decease, bring any account against my estate & demand payment of my Executor: that child or children shall be intirely cut off and absolutely excluded from any share or part of my estate, which I have bequeathed to them or any one of them, by my last will & testament, which I now confirm by this Codicill. Furthermore, all the residue of my estate not disposed of by my last will & testament, I Give to my Son Nehemiah Cobb, appointing & confirming him my sole Executor, as above, as witness my hand, this twenty second day of Novr. in the year of our Lord, one thousand seven hundred & eighty six—1786.

Signed, Sealed in                                                                                And confirmed by me —

presence of                                                                                                                           Nathan Cobb                                     (seal)

Thomas Savory

John Howland

 

Presented for probate on 30 June 1800 by Nehemiah Cobb, the Executor therein named, and proved by John Howland & Thomas Savory, two of the witnesses.

 

Joshua Eddy Esqr., Ebenezr Briggs yeoman, both of Middleborough, & Nathl Vaughan of Carver, yeoman, were appointed to appraise the estate of Nathan Cobb, late of Carver, weaver, on 28 July 1800. The Inventory of the estate of Nathan Cobb, late of Carver, dated 4 Aug. 1800, totaled only $103.77, no real estate. Nemiah Cobb, the Executor to the will of Nathan Cobb, deceased, gave his oath to the inventory on 14 Aug. 1800.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 37, pp. 268-270, 299, from FHL microfilm #0550719.

 

 

Will and Codicil of Nehemiah Cobb of Carver, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1825) *

In the name of God Amen  I Nehemiah Cobb of Carver in the County of Plymouth Esq. being advanced in life and knowing that it is appointed for all men once to die but being of sound mind and understanding to dispose of the estate it has pleased Almighty God to bless me with, Therefore I do make and publish this my last Will and Testament in form and manner following That is to say. In the first place I commend my soul to God who gave it me and my body to be buried in a decent manner at the discretion of my Executor hereafter named and my worldly property shall be disposed of as follows viz.

Item – I Will and bequeath to my beloved wife Mehitable Cobb the full use of one third of the improvement of my Real Estate and live Stock (and all my money on hand and Notes for money if any there shall be and my watch and clock at her own disposal) the improvement of said Real Estate and Stock during her natural life and the improvement of all my indoor moveables during her natural life and if that shall be found insufficient for her maintenance my Executor hereafter named shall supply her with sufficient maintenance both in sickness and in health suitable for an aged person.

Item – I Will and bequeath to my beloved Son Lemuel Cobb in addition to what he has already received one dollar to be paid him by my Executor in one year after my decease

Item – I will and bequeath to my beloved son Nehemiah Cobb in addition to what he has already received out of my estate one dollar to be paid him by my Executor hereafter named in one year after my decease

Item – I Will and bequeath to my beloved son Bennet Cobb one hundred Dollars to be paid him by my Executor in three years after my decease and also the whole of my wearing apparel exclusive of what I have heretofore disposed of to my said wife

Item – I will and bequeath to my daughter Perses Hammond in addition to what she has already had out of my Estate one fourth part of my indoor moveables after her mothers decease.

Item – I Will and bequeath to the Heirs of my beloved daughter Mehitable Cobb three dollars, to be paid by my Executor hereafter named in one year after my decease.

Item – I Will and bequeath to my beloved daughter Melissa Partridge fifty Dollars to be paid her in two years after my decease to be paid by my Executor hereafter named and also one half of my indoor moveables and also all the wearing apparel that my said wife may have at her decease

Item. I Will and bequeath to the heirs of my beloved son Frederick Cobb deceased in addition (to Lands set off to them by a Deed and other matters by a Bond) the crain that is used by them the said heirs in the easterly part of said house

Item I Will and bequeath to my beloved Grandaughter Betsey W. Cobb the one fourth part of my indoor moveables after the decease of my said wife and also all the things that was her mothers Betsey Cobb deceased.

Item – I Will and bequeath to my beloved son Nathan Cobb my homestead farm and all the land that I own lying in Middleborough and Carver consisting of improved land, Wood Land Cedar Swamp and meadow and the buildings thereon excepting what I have given to the heirs of Frederick Cobb deceased by deed and Bond – contents and Bounds will appear on Record of this County — And also all my live Stock and sheep excepting excepting what is given to the said heirs of said Frederick Cobb by bond and all my farming implements together with all my Carpenter tools and in short all my Estate of every kind not heretofore disposed of, by his paying all the Legacies and do or see done all heretofore mentioned in this Will and ordered to be done and his supporting his mother through life, and he the said Nathan is to be at the Charges of Settling said Estate. And whereas I have settled with all my heirs therefore if any of my heirs shall bring any account against my estate they shall be cut off from any benefit from my estate whether they have received it heretofore or by this Will & Testament.

Lastly. I do constitute appoint and ordain my said Son Nathan Cobb Executor of this my last Will & Testament confirming this and revoking all other Wills heretofore made by me, hoping all things in this Will & Testament will be complied with and fulfiled.

In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and Seal to this my last Will & Testament this thirty first day of January in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and twenty five

                                                                                                                                                Nehem. Cobb                                      (seal)

Signed, Sealed published & declared by the above named Nehem. Cobb to be his last Will & Testament in presence of us who have hereunto set our names as Witnesses in the presence of the Testator

                                                                                                                                                Levi Vaughan

                                                                                                                                                Rufus Sherman Jun

                                                                                                                                                Thomas Cobb

 

  I Nehemiah Cobb of Carver being of sound and disposing mind, do hereby on the nineteenth day of January in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and thirty six, make publish and declare this Codicil to my Will dated 31st day of January A.D. 1825 hereby republishing my said Will to which the Codicil is annexed. Viz.

Whereas Cornelius Burgess of New Bedford my Son in Law, has by his Deed dated January 15 1836 – conveyed to me certain Real Estate in said Carver being the same estate sold by him as Guardian & conveyed to Thomas Cobb jun. by Deed Recorded in the 173 folio of Land records for the County of Plymouth Pages 143 & 144 to which deeds reference may be had for a description of said premises now I give and bequeath said Real Estate to Melissa Burgess wife of said Cornelius to have and to hold the same for and during the term of her natural life: and after her decease I give and bequeath said Real Estate to the Children of said Cornelius Burgess who may be alive at the time of the decease of said Melissa to them their heirs and assigns forever: the Children of said Cornelius who may be alive at the time of my decease to take said Estate to them their heirs and assigns forever if said Melissa shall decease before me.

                                                                                                                                                Nehem. Cobb                                      (seal)

Signed, Sealed and declared by said Nehemiah Cobb to be a Codicil to his Will aforesaid in presence of us who in his presence & at his request have hereunto set our names as Witnesses.

                                                                                                                                                Thomas Cobb

                                                                                                                                                Nathan Cobb

                                                                                                                                                Lucinda Cobb

                                                                                                                                                Mary Barrows

 

Presented for probate on the second Monday of April 1841 by the Executor therein named, and proved by Levi Vaughan and Rufus Sherman jur, two of the Witnesses to the Will, and by Lucinda Cobb and Mary Barrows, two of the Witnesses to the Codicil.

 

Joshua Eddy of Middleborough was granted Administration of the Estate of Nehemiah Cobb, late of Carver, Esquire, with the Will annexed on 12 Apr. 1841, Nathan Cobb the appointed Executor having in writing declined the trust, with Levi Vaughan and Timothy Cobb, both of Carver, as sureties.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 83, p. 116-120, from FHL microfilm #0555267, and Vol. 10A, p. 515.

 

 

Will of Rev. Oliver Cobb of Rochester, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1848) *

                                In the Name of God, Amen.

        I, Oliver Cobb of Rochester in County of Plymouth in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Clerk, being in usual health and of sound mind, but sensible of my frailty and mortality, and that according to the course of nature, the time of my departure is at hand, I am desirous of setting my worldly concerns and do therefore make and establish this my last Will and Testament—

        First. I give my soul to God from whence I received it and my body to the Earth in decent Christian burial – believing in the resurrection of the dead, and hoping through the grace of God in Christ Jesus, to obtain salvation.—

                The little worldly property, which God has put into my hands, I dispose of in the following manner, viz.

        To my beloved Wife Hannah, I give one hundred dollars, to dispose of as She shall have occasion—Also, during her natural life I give one half of my dwelling house—eighty dollars annually—wood sufficient for one fire, cut up and houside—one half of my pew in the meeting-house—also, the use of a horse and carriage whenever she shall have occasion.

  Also, I give to my two sons George W. & Edward W. all of my real and personal estate, of whatever name or nature not disposed of by this instrument; and whereas they have mutually agreed on a division of the real estate, excepting salt meadows, I do establish and confirm said division as being agreeable to this my Will:– Provided, that the legacies and annuities are punctually paid; and the said George W. and Edward W. are holden severally to pay one half of said legacies and annuities, as are contained in this instrument.—

  Also, I give to my Daughter Hannah B. so long as she shall remain single, a home in my house, viz, such part of the half devised to my Wife as aforesaid, as will accommodate her, and not incommode the possessor.—

I give all my household furniture in reversion, to be equally divided between my four Daughters, or those of them who may survive the Legatee.– Also I give in reversion, all my other property of whatever name or nature to my sons George W. & Edward W. aforesaid.

        Those of my dear children, who are not mentioned in this Instrument are remembered with paternal affection and I presume will be satisfied, that the arrangement here made is according to my best judgment; And I, do hereby cancel all demandes, which I have against them, or any of them, by note or otherwise.

  And I do hereby appoint Leander Cobb Clerk, Executor of this my last Will and Testament.—

        Signed and sealed this second day of November, in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and forty eight—In presence of us.

                                                                                                                                                Oliver Cobb                                       (seal)

  Henry Cobb        }

Abigail Luce         } Witnesses.

Lucy Cobb            }

 

Presented for probate on 7 Nov. 1849 by Leander Cobb, the Executor therein named, and proved by Henry Cobb and Abigail Luce, two of the Witnesses whose names are subscribed thereto. Letters Testamentary were granted to Leander Cobb, the Executor therein named.

 

Leander Cobb, of Rochester, was appointed as Executor of the last Will and Testament of Oliver Cobb, late of Rochester, Clerk, on 7 Nov. 1849, with Theophilus King and James Ruggles, both of Rochester, as sureties.

George Look, Nathan D. Parlow and Ward P. Delano, all of Rochester, were appointed to appraise the estate of Rev. Oliver Cobb D.D., late of Rochester, on 29 Apr. 1850.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of the Revd Oliver Cobb D.D. late of Rochester, Clerk, was appraised on 29 Apr. 1850, his real estate valued at $3125, and his personal estate totaled $297.65. Leander Cobb, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 8 May 1850.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 91, p. 539-541, from FHL microfilm #0555640, Vol. 2H, p. 216, and Vol. 92, p. 173.

 

 

Will of Sarah Cobb of Plymouth, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1804) *

In the name of God amen I Sarah Cobb of Plymouth Seamster being weak in Body but of sound & disposing Mind & memory do make and ordain this to be my last Will and Testament. –

First of all I recommend my Soul to the everlasting Mercy of God that gave it, and my Body to a decent funeral humbly praying for a glorious Resurrection through Jesus Christ ~

In the next place after my just debts and funeral Expences are paid I give and dispose of my worldly Estate as follows first I give and bequeath to Sarah Spooner the Daughter of Ephraim Spooner Esqr. of Plymouth aforesaid one quarter part of my Estate both real & personal in doors and out of doors wherever the same may be found in Plymouth aforesaid, or elsewhere Secondly I give and bequeath to Mary Winslow Hayward the Daughter of Doctr. Nathan Hayward of Plymouth aforesaid one quarter part of my Estate both real & personal in doors and out of doors, in Plymouth aforesaid or elsewhere. – Thirdly I give and bequeath to Deborah Drew the Wife of Ebenezer Drew of Plymouth aforesaid one eighth part of my Estate both real and personal in doors & out of doors and wherever the same may be found in Plymouth aforesaid or elsewhere. fourthly I give and bequeath to Deborah Samson Widow of Simeon Samson late of Plimpton in the County aforesaid one twentieth part of my Estate both real & personal in Plymouth aforesaid or elsewhere. And to Rebecca Jackson the Daughter of Daniel Jackson of Plymouth aforesaid, I give one twentieth part of my Estate both real & personal I give and bequeath the said twentieth part of my Estate to said Rebecca Jackson – I give and bequeath to Caroline Jackson Daughter of Thomas Jackson of Plymouth aforesaid one twentieth part of my Estate both real and personal in Plymouth aforesaid or elsewhere. I give and bequeath to Sarah Brimmer Widow of Martin Brimmer Esqr. of Roxbury in the County of Norfolk, one twentieth part of my Estate both real & personal in Plymouth aforesaid elsewhere. And I give and bequeath to Betsy Sherman Widow of William Sherman one twentieth part of my Estate both real & personal in Plymouth aforesaid or elsewhere. And I give to my two Acquaintance Penelope Russell & Catharine Russell both of Boston in the County of Suffolk one twentieth part of my Estate both real and personal which twentieth is to be equally divided between them – And I give and bequeath to Hannah White Seamster of Plymouth aforesaid one fortieth part of my Estate both real & personal in Plymouth aforesaid and elsewhere. and I give and bequeath to Rebecca Bartlett Wife of Capt. Joseph Bartlett 3d. of Plymouth aforesaid one fortieth part of my Estate both real and personal in Plymouth aforesaid or else where and I give and bequeath to Mercy Robbins Wife of Ebenezer Robbins of Plymouth aforesaid – one fortieth part of my Estate both real & personal, in Plymouth aforesaid or elsewhere – Lastly I nominate and appoint Nathan Hayward of Plymouth aforesaid Physician to be sole Executor to this my last will and Testament. I Testimony of which I the said Sarah Cobb have hereunto set my hand & Seal the 10th. day of December AD one thousand eight hundred & four

Signed sealed & declared to be her last Will & Testament in presence of us –

        Rosseter Cotton                                                                                                                      her

        Joanna Winslow                                                                                                           Sarah  xxx  Cobb                                 (seal)

        James Thacher                                                                                                                      Mark

 

Presented for probate on 6 Feb. 1805 by Nathan Hayward Physician, the Executor therein named, and proved by Rossiter Cotton Esqr and James Thacher Physian, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Doctor Nathan Hay [sic] the before named Executor.

 

Ephraim Spooner & Rosseter Cotton Esqrs. and James Thacher, Physician, all of Plymouth, were appointed to appraise the estate of Sarah Cobb, late of Plymouth, spinster, on 6 Feb. 1805. The Inventory of the Estate of Mrs. Sarah Cobb, late of Plymouth, was dated 13 Feb. 1805, and totaled $1154.30, including her dwelling house and lot valued at $1000. Nathan Hayward, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 14 Feb. 1805.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 40, p. 175-178, from FHL microfilm #0550901.

 

 

Will of Stevens Cobb of Kingston, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1805) *

   In the name of God amen  I Stevens Cobb of Kingston in the County of Plymouth Shipwright being very sick and weak in body but of perfect mind and Memory, Thanks be given to almighty God for the same, calling unto mind the Mortality of my Body and knowing that it is appointed for all men once to die do make and ordain this my last Will and Testament. that is to say principally & first of all I give and recommend my Soul into the hands of almighty God that gave it and my body I recommend to the Earth to be buried in decent christian Burial nothing doubting but that at the General Resurrection I shall receive the same again by the mighty Power of God And as touching such worldly Estate wherewith it has pleased God to bless me in this Life I give, devise and dispose of the same in the following Manner ~

                I give and bequeath to Elizabeth my beloved Wife, whom I like wise constitute, make and ordain the sole Executrix of this my last Will and Testament, all and singular my Estate both real and personal after my just debts and funeral Charges are paid by her freely to be possessed and enjoyed, improved or sold as she may think proper for the Support and Maintenance of herself and her Children ~

   In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this thirty first day of May in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and five

Signed sealed published & declared by

the said Stevens Cobb as his last                                                                                      Stevens Cobb                                    (seal)

Will and Testament in the

presence of us who in his presence

and in the presence of each other

have hereunto subscribed our Names

                Seth Drew

                John Cook

                Cynthy Nelson –

 

Presented for probate on 25 June 1805 by Elizabeth Cobb, the Executrix therein named, and proved by Seth Drew Esqr. and Cynthia Nelson, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Elizabeth Cobb, the before named Executrix.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 40, p. 231-232, from FHL microfilm #0550901.

 

 

Will of Timothy Cobb of Carver, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1803) *

  In the Name of God amen. I Timothy Cobb of Carver in the County of Plymouth Housewright, considering the uncertainty of this Mortal Life; and being of sound Mind & memory, Blessed be almighty God for the same do make & publish this my last Will & Testament in Manner & form following (that is to say) ~

first I will and bequeath to my beloved Son Thomas Cobb all my Real Estate being and lying in the County of Plymouth with the Buildings thereon by his paying what I shall hereafter in this Will order him the said Thomas to pay to my other Children, & also I will and bequeath to my said Son Thomas all my Carpenter’s Tools together with all my farming Tools and live Stock by his the said Thomas paying as above & paying all my just debts & funeral Charges and the Expence of settling my Estate –

Item my Will is & I hereby enjoin it upon my said Son Thomas to pay to my other Children viz Timothy Cobb, Nathaniel Cobb & Alvean Cobb and Deliverance Soul, Deborah Doten, Molly Barden & Elizabeth Cobb one hundred Dollars each, including what I have already paid them as may appear by charges against them on my Book ~

Item I will and bequeath to the said Timothy Cobb & Nathl. Cobb & Alvean Cobb & Deliverance Soul, Deborah Doten, Molly Barden, & Elizabeth Cobb all my Household Furniture & Money on hand if any there should be and all debts due to me, to be equally divided among them ~

All the above Legacies I will to my abovesaid Children to them & to their Heirs & Assigns for ever.—

Lastly my Will is & I hereby constitute & appoint my Son Thomas Cobb to be Executor to this my last Will & Testament, hoping all things herein contained will be performed according to the true Intent & Meaning hereof hereby revoking all former Wills by me made —   In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and Seal the fifth day of September in the Year of our Lord one Thousand eight hundred & three –

Signed Sealed published and declared

by the above named Timothy Cobb to be

his last Will & Testament in the presence

of us, who have hereunto subscribed our                                                                        Timothy Cobb                                   (seal)

Names as Witnesses in the presence of the Testator

Betsey Cobb

Mehitabel Cobb

Neph. Cobb

 

Presented for probate on 15 Apr. 1806 by Thomas Cobb, the Executor therein named, and proved by Nehemiah Cobb Esquire, one of the witnesses thereto subscribed, Betsey Cobb being deceased, and Mehitabel Cobb having removed out of the Commonwealth. Letters of Administration were granted to Thomas Cobb, the before named Executor.

 

Nehemiah Cobb Esqr., Job Cole, Yeoman, both of Carver, and James Soule, of Middleborough, Yeoman, were appointed to appraise the Estate of Timothy Cobb, late of Carver, Housewright, on 15 Apr. 1806. The Inventory, dated 30 Apr. 1806, totaled $2531.84, including his homestead farm with the buildings valued at $1150. Thos. Cobb, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 3 May 1806.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 40, pp. 424-425, 439, from FHL microfilm #0550901.

 

 

Will of Ephraim Cole of Plymouth, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1731) *

In the Name of God Amen, I Ephraim Cole of the Town of Plymouth in the County of Plymouth in New-England Considering the Uncertainty of Life and the Certainty of Death & being through Gods Goodness of a sound & disposing Mind & Memory Do Make & Ordain this my last Will & Testament as following; In the first Place I Bequeath my Immortal Soul to God that gave it Relying upon his Mercy & ye Merits of Jesus Christ for Eternal Salvation and my frail Body to the Dust to be decently buried according to the Discretion of my Executrix herein below mentioned & appointed hoping to Recieve it again at ye General Resurrection, and as to what temporal Estate it hath please ye Almighty in his Goodness to bless Me withal I Dispose of ye Same by this my last Will & Testament My just Debts & funeral charges being first paid as followeth

Imprims. I Give & Bequeath to my loving Wife Rebecca Cole all my Personal Estate and one half of my Housing lying & being in Plymo or elsewhere during her Natural Life and my Will further is that my Grand Children hereafter Named be brought up out of my Moveable Estate.

Itm I Give & Bequeath to my Son Samuel Cole & to his Heirs & assigns forever two third Parts of ye remaining part of my real Estate And my Will also is that my Son Samuel Cole shall have Liberty & Priviledge to Enjoy the Whole of my real Estate if he see Cause to accept of it. he paying unto the Grand Children hereafter named One third Part of the true value of sd Estate—

Item. I Give & Bequeath to my five Grand Children viz: Rebekah Cole & Sarah Cole Mary Durfey         Durfey a Grandson, and Josiah Carver Son to Josiah Carver & Dorothy his Wife who is deceased, one third Part of the Remaining Part of my Real Estate to be equally Divided among them when the sd Grand Children shall come to lawfull Age. that is to Say the Grandsons to the age of twenty one Years and the Grand Daughters to the age of Eighteen Years or time of Marriage. And my Will further is that if any of my Grand Children should dy before they come to Age abovesd., or if any of them Should dy Without Issue of their Body lawfully begotten then his or her Part of Share should be equally Divided among the Surviving Grand Children—

Itm I Give & Bequeath to my Son Samuel Cole & to his Heirs & assigns forever Two third Parts of my personal Estate & the remaining two third Parts of Half my Housing after my Wifes decease & my Grand Children have been brought up out of my personal Estate.

Itm I Give & Bequeath to my five Grand Children above named the Remaining Part of my Personal Estate which is one third Part and the Remaining one third Part of half the Housing to their Heirs & assigns forever after my Wifes Decease and the sd Grand Children have been brought up out of my personal Estate and if any of my Grand Children should dy before they come of age or dy without Issue as aforesd then his or her Part of Share shall be equally Divided among ye Surviving Grand Children.

Itm I do Constitute & Appoint my sd dear Wife Rebekah Cole Sole Executrix of this my last Will & Testament: And I do by these Presents Revoke & make void all other & former Wills by Me heretofore made Ratifying allowing & Confirming this & no other to be my last Will & Testament, and in Testimony hereof I the sd Ephraim Cole have hereunto Set my hand & Seal this Second day of March Anno Domini one thousand Seven hundred & thirty or thirty one — 1730/1. —

Signed Sealed Published &                                                                                                Ephraim Cole                                   (Seal)

Declared to be his last Will

& Testament In Presence of us

John Dyer

John Barnes

Willm Dunham

 

May ye 21: 1731. The above named John Dyer John Barnes & William Donham made Oath that they Saw the above named Ephraim Cole late of Plymo in the County of Plymouth Deceasd Sign Seal & heard him Declare this Instrument to be his last Will & Testament and that they at ye Same time In the Presence of ye sd Testator Set to their Hands as Witnesses; and that according to the best of their Observation he then was of a Sound & Disposing Mind & Memory Before Isaac Winslow Judge of Probate

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Ephraim Cole, late of Plymouth, was appraised by John Dyer, Thomas Holmes and Stephen Churchell on 29 Nov. 1731, and totaled £3333.4.11, including two dwelling houses, a barn and land adjoining valued at £1200, 12 acres of land near Goose Point valued at £500, and other lands, as well as a negro woman and a negro boy valued at £120. Mrs. Rebekah Cole, the Executrix, gave her oath to the inventory on 28 Jan. 1731[/32].

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol.6, pp. 52-53, 124-126, from FHL microfilm #0550512.

 

 

Will of Ephraim Cole of Bridgewater, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1775) *

In the Name of God Amen. I Ephraim Cole of Bridgwater In the County of Plymouth In New-England Husbandman being Very Sick But of Sound Mind & Memory Praised be God for it, & Considering the Uncertainty of my Life Do make & Ordain this my Last Will & Testament in Manner & Form Following that is to Say first & Principally I commit my Soul into the Hands of Almighty God hoping for the Pardon of all my Sins through the Alone Merits Death & Passion of my Lord & Saviour Jesus Christ & to Inherit Eternal Life & my Body I Commit to the Earth to be Decently Buried at the Discretion of my Executors hereafter named nothing Doubting but at the General Resurrection I Shall Receive the Same again by the Mighty Power of God & As Touching Such Temporal Estate as it hath Pleased God to Lend me I Dispose thereof in Manner & form Following Viz.

Imprimis I will that all my Just Debts & funeral Charges be paid & Discharged in Due & reasonable time by my Executors ~

Item I Give & Bequeath unto my Loving Wife Hannah Cole all my Indoor Moveables & household furnature with One Cow to be her Own forever & I likewise Give her One half of my Flax and Rye with One half of the Crop of Corn I now Have on the Ground & also Order that my Wife has the Whole Improvement of my Dwelling House & Barn with the Corn House & all my Lands that Lies South of the Road that my Dwelling House Stands by & West of the Road that Leads from the School House to John Packard’s Land Excluding the Land I bought of Sarah Turner & to Improve them with the Land I have Set out to her as Long as She Shall Remain my Widow ~

Item I Give & Bequeath to my son Ephraim Cole & to his Heirs forever four Acres of Land that I had of Sarah Turner That Lies North of my Dwelling House & the Land that I own in Bridgwater West of Jacob Packards & Zechariah Gurneys Land with all my Meadow & Meadowish Land that I Have in Easton in the County of Bristol & Also my Dwelling House & Barn & Corn House with all the Land I have Ordered my Wife Shall Improve when She has done with them: I also Give him my Colt & One half of my Rye & Flax with half of my Crop of Corn on the Ground with my Husbandry Tools & my half of the Pew in the Meeting House ~

Item I Give unto my Daughter Zilpah Bartlett & to her Heirs forever One Third Part of Fourteen Acres & half of Land That I Bought of sarah Turner Said Land Joyns to the North End of John Packards Land ~

Item I Give unto my Daughter Hannah Cole & to her Heirs forever for ever Two Thirds of Fourteen Acres & half of Land I Bought of Sarah Turner Said Land Joyns on the North End of John Packards Land ~

Item I Give unto my daughter Molle Cole Twenty Six Pounds Thirteen Shillings & four Pence Lawfull Money to be paid to her when She Shall Arrive to the Age of Twenty One Years ~  Item I Give unto my Daughter Rachel Cole Twenty Six Pounds Thirteen Shillings & four Pence Lawfull Money to be paid to her when She Shall Arrive to the Age of Twenty One Years ~

Item I Order that my Son Ephraim Cole pay to my Two Daughters Molle Cole & Rachel Cole their Legacies as they Arrive to the Age of Twenty One Years ~

Lastly I Appoint & Ordain my Wife Hannah Cole & Edward Bartlet of Stoughton in the County of Suffolk my sole Executors of this My Last Will & Testament & I Order them to Sell all the Planck that I have & as much of my Quick Stock as is Needfull to Defray Charges & to pay my Debts & the Remainder my Wife & my Son Ephraim to have & I Do hereby Utterly Disallow Revoke & Disanull all and Every other Former Testament Wills Legacies & Bequests Ratifying and Confirming this & no Other to be my Last Will & Testament In Witness whereof I have hereunto Set my hand & Seal this fifth Day of September Anno Domini One Thousand Seven hundred & Seventy five Signed Sealed Published Pronounced & Declared by the Said Ephraim Cole as his Last Will & Testament In the Presence of us the Subscribers ~

Nathll. Reynolds                                                                                                                                  his

John Gurney                                                                                                                         Ephraim  X  Cole                                 (seal)

Nathll. Reynolds Junr:                                                                                                                         mark

 

Presented for probate on 1 April 1776 by Hannah Cole and Edward Bartlet, the Executors therein named, and proved by Nathll. Reynolds, John Gurney and Nathll. Reynolds Junr, the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Hannah Cole and Edward Bartlet, the before named Executors.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Mr. Ephraim Cole, late of Bridgewater, was appraised on 2 Apr. 1776 by Nathll. Reynolds, John Packard, and Samuel Cole, and totaled £549.15.7, including his 29 acres & a half of land with the dwelling house, barn and corn house valued at £213.13.4, and other lands. Edward Bartlet and Hannah Cole, the Executor and Executrix, gave their oath to the inventory on 3 June 1776.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 24, pp. 75-77, 144-145, from FHL microfilm #0550713.

 

 

Will of Hezekiah Cole of Carver, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1797) *

In the Name of God Amen. I Hezekiah Cole of Carver in the County of Plymouth yeoman, being very weak in body, but of perfect mind & memory thanks be given unto God, calling unto mind the mortality of my body & knowing that it is appointed for all men once to die, do make & ordain this my last will & testament, that is to say, principally and first of all I give & recommend my soul into the hands of almighty God that gave it, and my body I recommend to the earth, to be buried in decent christian burial at the discretion of my Executors, nothing doubting but at the general resurrection, I shall recieve the same again by the mighty power of God, and as touching such worldly estate wherewith it hath pleased God to bless me in this life, I Give, devise & dispose of the same in the following manner and form

First—I Give & bequeath to Elisabeth Cole, my dearly beloved wife the improvement of one third of my real estate, also one third of my houshold goods, also two Cows and all my sheep as her right of dower or power of thirds, so long as she shall remain my widow

Also—I Give to my well beloved Son Hezekiah Cole, all my real estate lying in Carver in the County of Plymouth, also I Give to my Son Hezekiah Cole all my farming utensills, also I give to my Son Hezekiah Cole, all my Chattells that I have not heretofore disposed of to him the said Hezekiah Cole & to his heirs & assigns forever and ‘tis my will that my Son Hezekiah Cole shall pay to my daughter Zilpha Cole the sum of Fifty Dollars in two years after my decease, also I give to my daughter Zilpha Cole the other two thirds of my indoor moveables, to her ye said Zilpha Cole, to her heirs and assigns forever, also I give to my daughter Zilpha Cole the privilege of living in the house in which I now live, & my Son Hezekiah Cole shall give my daughter Zilpha Cole the privilege of a fire so long as she shall remain single life, and do appoint my well beloved wife Elisabeth Cole, the Sole Executrix of this my last will & testament and I do hereby utterly disallow, revoke and disannul all and every other former testaments, will, legacies, bequests & Executors, by me in any ways before named, willed & bequeathed, ratifying & confirming this & no other, to be my last will & testament. In witness whereof, I have hereunto Set my hand & Seal, this seventeenth day of April, in the year of our Lord One thousand, Seven hundred & ninety seven

Signed, Sealed, Published, Pronounced

& declared by ye sd Hezekiah Cole as his                                                                        Hezekiah Cole                  (seal)

last will & testament, in ye presence of

us, who in his presence & in ye presence

of each other have hereunto subscribed our

names                    Rowland Cobb

                                Lemuel Cole

                                Gideon Bradford

 

Presented for probate on 5 Aug. 1797 by Elisabeth Cole, the Executrix therein named, and proved by Lemuel Cole and Gideon Bradford, two of the witnesses. No inventory was recorded for his estate.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 36, p. 197-198, from FHL microfilm #0550719.

 

 

Will of John Cole of Plympton, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1723/4) *

In ye. Name of God amen: The thirteenth Day of March in ye year of our Lord one thousand Seven Hundred & twenty ¾, I John Cole of Plympton in ye County of Plymouth In the majestys Province of ye. Massachusetts Bay: In New: England yeoman: Being very Sick & weak in Body: but of perfect mind & memory Thanks be given unto God: Therefore Calling to mind ye. mortality of my Body & knowing it is appointed for all men once to dye; Do make & ordain this my last Will & Testament: That is to Say, Principally & first of all; I give & Recomend my Soul into ye. Hands of God yt. Gave it: & my Body I Recomend to ye. Earth: to be Buried in Decent & Christian manner at ye. discretion of my Executrix; nothing doubting but at ye. general Resurrection: I Shall Receive ye. Same again by ye. almighty Power of God: & as touching Such Worldly Estate, wherewith it hath Pleased God to bless me in this Life, I give demise & dispose of ye. Same in ye. following manner & form. I give & Bequeath to my dearly beloved Wife Susannah Cole all my Estate Immoveable & moveable during Her Life; & to be disposed of by Her as She Shall See Cause: I likewise Constitute make & ordain my beloved Wife Susannah Cole Sole Executrix of this my last Will & Testament & I hereby utterly disallow Revoke & disanull all & Every other former Testaments Wills, Legacys & Bequests & Executors by me In any ways before named Willed & Bequeathed: Ratifying & Confirming this & no other to be my last Will and Testament: In Witness whereof I have hereunto Set my Hand & Seal ye. Day & year above written.

Signed Sealed Published Pronounced                                                                                     His

& declared by ye. sd. John Cole as His                                                                             John  J  Cole & Seal           (seal)

last Will & Testament: In ye. Presence                                                                                  marke

of us ye Subscribers

Micajah Donham His mark M

Mary Shaw Her mark M

John Bell

 

Probated on 25 Apr. 1724, and proved by Micajah Donham, Mary Shaw, and John Bell, the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Susannah Cole, the Sole Executrix, on 25 Apr. 1724.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

Received of our Honoured Mother Mrs. Susannah Cole of Plympton in ye. County of Plymouth Widdow & Relict of our Honoured Father Mr. John Cole of sd. Plympton decd. a Bond of Even Date with this discharge for the Payment of fourty Pounds at four Several Payments: & In Consideration of sd. fourty Pounds wee do by These Presents fully freely Clearly & absolutely Demise Release & forever Quitt our Claim to or Into ye. Estate of our sd. Hond. Father Decd. & also what may In any wise accrue or become due to us by or upon accompt of our Hond. Mothers Interest in sd. Estate or any Estate peculiarly appertaining unto our sd. Hond. Mother: & wee do Release & absolutely Quitt our Claim to sd. estate & for our Heirs & Assignes do Pass our whole Interest in sd. Estate unto our Hond. Mother Her Heirs Executors & administrators to warrant & defend our sd. Hond. Mother Her Heirs & assignes in their Quiett & Peaceable Enjoyment of ye. Same: as Witness our Hands & Seals this Sixteenth day of September annoque Domini 1724

Signed Sealed & delivered

In Presence of us                                                                                                                 Robert Harlow                  (seal)

Samuel Bradford                                                                                                                 The marke of

Josiah Cushman                                                                                                                  Susannah X  Harlow           (seal)

September ye. 16th. 1724. The above named Robert Harlow & Susannah Harlow His wife acknowledged ye. above written Instrument to be their act & Deed.  Before Isaac Winslow Judge of Probate.

 

Received of our Hond. Mother Mrs. Susannah Cole of Plympton in ye. County of Plymouth Widdow & Relict of our Hond Father Mr. Jno. Cole of sd. Plympton deceased: four Bonds of Even Date with this discharge for ye. Payment of fourty Pounds and In Consideration of sd. fourty Pounds, wee doe by these Presents fully, freely, etearly & absolutely Demise Release & forEver Quitt our Claim to or Into ye. Estate of our Hond. Father decd. and also what may In any wise accrue or become due to us by or upon accompt of our Hond. Mothers. Interest in Sd. Estate or any Estate more Peculiarly appertaining unto our sd. Hond. Mother; and wee due Release & absolutely Quitt our Claim to Sd. Estate & for our Heirs & assignes doe Quitt our whole Interest in sd. Estate unto our Hond. Mother Her Heirs Executors & administrators & assignes forEver: Obliging our Selves our Heirs Executors & administrators to warrant & defend our sd. Mother Her Heirs & assignes in Their Quiet & Peaceable Enjoyment of ye. Same; as Witness our Hands & Seals this thirtieth day of Aprill anno Domini 1725.

Signed Sealed & DD

In Presence of us                                                                                                                 Isaac Wright                      (seal)

Joseph Thomas                                                                                                                              Her

John Smith                                                                                                                            Mary  M  Cole

                                                                                                                                                         Mark

Plym. Ss: on ye. 26th of February 1725. The abovesd. Isaac Wright & Mary his wife acknowledged ye. above written to be their act & Deed.

                                                                                Before me Nathaniel Thomas Justice of Peace

 

To all People to whome these presents shall Come Know yee that we Isaac Wright of Plimpton in the County of Plimouth yeoman & Mary Wright his Wife which sd Mary was daughter to Mr John Cole & his wife Mrs Susanah Cole both late of Plimpton aforesd deceased for & in Consideration of twenty pounds money to us in hand have Remised Released & forever quite Claimed & by these Presents for our selves & our heirs doe fully freely clearly & absolutely Remise Release & forever quite claim unto John Cole Edward Cole Thomas Cole Joseph Cole Benjamin Cole & Elizabeth Cole Children of the aforesd Mr John Cole & Mrs Susanah Cole deceased & Samuel Cole who was the [smear] son of Samuel Cole late of Plimpton deceased & grand son of the sd John Cole & Susanah his wife deceased in their full & Peaceable possession & seizen & to their heirs & to their assignes forever all such Right Estate title or Interest both Real or Personal of what nature soever as we the sd Isaac Wright & Mary his wife had or of Right ought to have of in or unto the Estate of our sd father & mother John Cole & Susanah Cole late deceased of what kind or nature soever by any way or means whatsoever that is to Say to the sd John Cole two Shares or Eighth parts & to the sd Edward Cole Thomas Cole Joseph Cole Benjamin Cole Elizabeth Cole & Samuel Cole one share or eighth part each, To have & to hold all the above granted premises unto the sd John Cole Edward Cole Thomas Cole Joseph Cole Benjamin Cole Elizabeth Cole Samuel Cole their heirs & assignes forever to their only proper use benefett & behoof forever So that nither the sd Isaac Wright or Mary his wife nor their heirs nor any other person or persons for them or in their names or in the name stead or place of them or Either of them shall or will by any way or means forever hereafter claim Challenge or demand any Estate Right title or Interest of in or unto the premises or any part or parcel thereof they & every of them shall be uterly excluded & bard by these presents forever & the sd Isaac Wright & Mary his wife the Premises & appurtenances to the sd John Cole Edward Cole Thomas Cole Joseph Cole Benjamin Cole Elizabeth Cole & Samuel Cole their heirs & assignes to their own proper use & uses in Manner & form afor Specified against their heirs & assignes & every of them shall Warrant & forever defend by these presents. In Witness whereof the sd Isaac Wright & Mary his Wife have hereunto set their hands & Seals this fifteenth day of March Anno Domini 1727.

Signed Sealed & delivered                                                                                                 Isaac Wright                                      (seal)

In Presence of                                                                                                                               her

James Whiton                                                                                                                       Mary  M  Wright  (seal)

John Perkens                                                                                                                                 marke

Plim. Ss. March the 21st 1728 The within named Isaac Wright & Mary Wright acknowledged the within written to be their act & Deed: Before me                 Nathll. Thomas Justice of Peace

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol, 4, pp. 442-443, 450, and Vol. 5, pp. 176, 555.

 

 

Will of John Cole of Plympton, Plymouth County, Massachusetts Bay (1778) *

In the name of God Amen John Cole of the Town of Plymton in the County of Plymouth in New England yeoman Labouring under many infirmities of body which are symtoms of approaching mortality, but of perfect & disposing memory, thanks be Given to almighty God for the same, but calling to mind the mortality of my body & knowing that it is appointed for all men once to dye do make & ordain this my Last Will & testament

First—I Will & bequeath my soul to God that Gave it me, & my body to the dust to be decently buried at the discretion of my Executrix hereafter named, nothing doubting but at the Generall resurrection, I shall recieve the same again by the mighty power of God

Item—I Will & bequeath unto my Loving wife Elizabeth Cole the improvement of all my Estate both Real & personal, untill my Loving son Ebenezer Cole comes to the age of twenty One years, if she remains my widow untill said term, she paying my Just debts & funeral charges out of my moveable Estate, and when my son Ebenezer shall arrive to the age of twenty one years, my Will is that my Loving wife Elizabeth Cole aforesaid shall have all the Estate she brought with her & no more, but if in case my said wife should marry again before my aforesaid Son Ebenezer comes to the age of twenty one years, my Will is that she shall improve my aforesaid Estate no Longer, but shall have only the Estate she brought with her & that to be her own for Ever Excepting the Liberty to Live in the west end of my house during her widow-hood ~

Item—I Will and bequeath unto my Loving Son John Cole one Sixth part of my Real Estate to him his heirs & assigns forever ~

Item—I Will & bequeath unto my Loving son Lemuell Cole one Sixth part of my Real Estate to him his heirs & assigns forever ~

Item—I Will & bequeath unto my Loving Son Joshua Cole one Sixth part of my Real Estate to him his heirs & assigns forever ~

Item—I Will & bequeath unto my Loving son Caleb Cole one Sixth part of my Real Estate to him & his heirs & assigns forever ~

Item—I Will & bequeath unto my Loving son Asahel Cole one Sixth part of my Real Estate to him & his heirs & assigns forever ~

Item—I Will & bequeath unto my Loving Son Ebenezer Cole one Sixth part of my Real Estate to him & his heirs & assigns forever ~

Item—I Will & bequeath unto my Loving daughter Mary Pratt the wife of Noah Pratt the sum of Five pounds, to be paid her out of my Estate in money or moveables to the value thereof the abovesd Five pounds, I do Give unto my said daughter Mary Pratt and to her heirs & assigns forever to be paid her within three years after my decease ~

Item—I Will & bequeath unto my Loving daughter Hannah Gammons the wife of John Gammons the sum of Five pounds, to be paid her out of my Estate, to be paid in money or moveable Estate to the value thereof within three years after my decease, the abovesaid Five pounds I do Give unto my said daughter Hannah Gammons & to her heirs & assigns forever ~

Item—I Will and bequeath unto my Loving Grand children, the children of my Loving son Ephraim Cole deceased the sum of thirty pounds to be paid them out of my Estate in money or moveable Estate to the value thereof within three years after my decease to be Equally divided amongst them all, the abovesaid thirty pounds I do Give unto my Loving Grand children the children of my Loving son Ephraim Cole deceased, & to their heirs and assigns forever ~

Lastly – I nominate and appoint my Loving wife Elisabeth Cole to be the Sole Executrix of this my Last Will & testament, hereby revoking all other & former Wills Either written or verbal by me heretofore made or done, hereby ratifying & confirming this my Last Will to remain firm & inviolable, and, In Testimony whereof I the abovesaid John Cole have hereunto set my hand & Seal the twenty third day of May and in the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred, Seventy & Eight

Signed Sealed and pronounced and declared

by the said John Cole to be his Last Will &                                                                   John Cole                                           (seal)

testament in presence of us –

        Samuel Lucas

        Samuel Lucas 3d

        Abijah Lucas ~

 

Presented for probate on 3 Aug. 1778 by Elisabeth Cole, the Executrix therein named, and proved by Samuel Lucas and Abijah Lucas, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Elizabeth Cole, the before named Executrix.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of John Cole, late of Plymton, yeoman, was appraised on 3 Dec. 1778 by Samuel Lucas, Eleazer Crocker, and Daniel Faunce, and totaled £1232.10~, including his real estate valued at £800, of which his homestead and buildings were valued at £690. Elisabeth Cole, the Executrix, gave her oath to the inventory on 7 Dec. 1778.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 25, p. 34-36, from FHL microfilm #0550713.

 

 

Will of Lt. Joseph Cole of Plympton, Plymouth County, Massachusetts Bay (1785) *

In the Name of God-Amen – I, Joseph Cole of Plymton in the County of Plymouth, in the State of Massachusetts, knowing that it is appointed for all men to die, being now of a Disposing mind and memory do make this my Last will and testament, hereby Revoking and disanuling, all other wills or testament of what name or kind Soever – my Soul I Commit & Commend to God, in hope and trust of his mercy through Jesus Christ to a Glorious Resurrection to Eternal Life at the day of Judgment my body I Commit to the Earth to be buried in a decent and Christian manner by my executor hereafter named – as touching the worldly Interest which God hath Give me, I do dispose of it in the following manner [Excepting what I have already disposed of by Deeds to my Children ~

Item – I Give unto my beloved wife Sarah Cole the improvement of one third of all my Real Estate Lying in Plymton as Long as she Remains my widow, and if she marries again She Quits her title to it & improvement of it–I also Give unto her all the Houshold furniture which she brought with her, when I married her –

Item – I Give unto my Son Gershom Cole one Silver Spanish Dollar

Item – I Give to my Son Job Cole my right of Iron Ore in a place Called Robbins’s Swamp, which I bought of Jonathan Wood & his wife of Middleborough

Item – I Give to my Son Lemuel Cole, the improvement of that part of my Real Estate, which I have by Deed Given to my Son Consider Cole untill he Comes of age, as also all my Live Stock & Husbandry utensills of every kind–intending and ordering that my Son Lemuel Cole pays all my Lawful just debts –

Item – I Give to my Daughters Ruth Cole– Hannah Cole– Bethiah Cole and Phebe Cole all my Houshold furniture and indoor moveables to be equally divided between them, Excepting my wearing apparell which I Give to Job Cole–Lemuel Cole and Consider Cole to be equally divided between them

  I Do by these presents Constitute and appoint my two Sons Job Cole & Lemuel Cole Executors to this my Last will and testament and that my Son Lemuel Cole pay my funeral Charges

Furthermore– my will is–that my Son Lemuel Cole and daughters Ruth Cole– Hannah Cole– Bethiah Cole–Phebe Cole and Consider Cole Shall Refuse all or Either of them as they Severally Come of age to Give an acquittanced to my Son Gershom Cole of their Shares to the Land which their uncle Consider Cole Late of Pembroke Gave them, then they forfeit their Share to my Estate both Real & Personal

   I also Give my four Daughters Ruth Cole– Hannah Cole– Bethiah Cole and Phebe Cole the privilege of a fire place & Living in the House as Long as they Live Single – I also Order and my will is that my three Sons Job Cole– Lemuel Cole & Consider Cole Give to my two Daughters Bethiah Cole and Phebe Cole a Chest and Draws to each of them, when my Daughter Phebe Cole arrives to the age of twenty one years – In Testimony hereof I have Set my hand and Seal this fourteenth Day of July in the year of our Lord one thousand Seven hundred & Eighty five–1785 –

Signed, Sealed and pronounced to be

the Last will and testament in pre-                                                                                   Joseph Cole                                       (seal)

sence of

                George Ellis

                Hezekiah Cole

                John Howland

 

Plymton June 22d 1786–whereas my Honored father Joseph Cole of Plymton deceased appointed the Subscriber one of the Executors to his Last will & testament – this Certifies that I decline accepting of said Executorship–as witness my hand –

                                                                                                                                                Job Cole

 

Presented for probate on 5 June 1786 by Job Cole and Lemuel Cole, the Executors therein named, and proved by ye. Revd. John Howland and Hezekiah Cole, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Lemuel Cole, one of the before named Executors, Job Cole the other Executor named having refused the said trust.

 

Saml Lucas yeoman, Nehemiah Cobb Gentm, and Isaiah Tilson yeoman, all of Plymton, were appointed to appraise the estate of Joseph Cole, late of Plymton Gentm, deceased, on 5 June 1786. The Inventory of the Estate of Lieut. Joseph Cole, dated 9 Jan. 1787, totaled £295.1.6, including his lands and buildings valued at £247. Lemuel Cole, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 7 Feb. 1791.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 29, p. 542-544, from FHL microfilm #0550715, and Vol. 31, p. 319.

 

 

Will of Rebecca Cole of Plymouth, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1737) *

In the Name of God Amen I Rebecca Cole of Plymouth in the County of Plymouth in New England widdo. And Relict of Mr. Ephraim Cole Senr. late Deceasd being through the Goodness of God of sound and disposeing Mind and Memory and knowing the Uncertainty of my Life do make and Ordain this to be my last will and Testament principally and first of all I Give & recommend my Soul to God yt. gave it Desireing the Pardon and Remission of my sins in and through Christ the Saviour and Redemer of the world and My body I Committ to the Dust to be Decently Buried (at the Discretion of my Executors) In hopes of a Joy full Resurrection at the last day)  As to the worldly Estate it has pleased god to Bless me with I Dispose of the same as follows ~

Imprs. Itis my will That my Debts and funerall Charges be first paid and that my Executors shall put all my Grand Children in Decent mourning according to the Discretion of my sd. Executors—

Item. I give and Bequeath to my Grand Daughter Mary Durfey & her Heirs One Silver Tankard, One Cow Eleven Sheep a Great Brass Kittle and my Case of Bottles and the Bed whereon She usually Lodges with all the Beding and furniture to it—

Item I Give to my Grand Daughter Rebecca Cole and her Heirs One Silver Tankard One Cow Twelve Sheep my Great Round Table a Chest of Drawes One bed with ye Callico Curtains Rug and all the beding Bedstead and furniture to ye Same belonging And One pair of the best of my Andiorns, and my Great Bible~

Item I Give to my Grand Daughter Sarah Cole My Great Looking Glass Six Silver Spoones One Round table a Chest of Draws my great brass Skillet a Chamber Table a Brass Kettle and One pair of the best of my Andirons, One Callico Bed Quilt One Cow and Twelve Sheep –

I Give and bequeath To my Grandson Josiah Carver five pounds – and I also Give to my Grandson Samuel Cole five pounds the sum of five pounds to be paid to them by Executors in bills of Creditt such as Commonly Now Pass: when my sd. Grandsons Shall Respectively arrive to the age of twenty one years and if Such bills of Creditt Cant then be had they are Each to be paid in Other money equall to five pounds bills of Creditt as they Now Pass at ye. making this my Will And all the Rest of the Remainder of my Moveable & Personall Estate Wareing Cloaths money or Debts due to me Nothing of my Estate Excepted or Reserved that is not before particularly disposed off I give Equally to be Divided among my Grand Daughters Mary Durfey Rebecca Cole and Sarah Cole or theire Legall Representatives my sd. Grand Daughters to Receive what I have by this will give them: when they Shall arrive to ye. Age of Eighteen years or day of Marriage and if Either of my sd. Grand Daughters should dye before She Receives her portions then her part or share by this will Given her to be Equally Divided between my Other grand Daughters: And when my sd. Grand Daughters Shall Respectively Respectively Receive theire Portion of my Estate before Given them it is to be Respectively held and Enjoyed by them & their Heirs~ And further it is my will That my Grand Daughters Rebecca and Sarah Cole be kept at School till they Come to thirteen year of age and if ye. Income of my sd. Grand Daughters Estate which they hold by their Grand Father Coles will and what Estate they have otherwise be not Sufficient to maintain them then they Are to be Mantaind Out of the Income of what I have here by Given them But the Principal to be kept Good till they Come to Eighteen years of Age or Day of Mariage, And I doe hereby appoint Mr. Thomas Spooner of Plymouth to be Overseer and Gardian to my Grand Daughter Mary Durfey and See yt her Estate be Secured and kept for her and that she be Comfortably Supported Out of the Incomes of her Own & my Estate before Given her and I allso appoint Mr. Joseph Bartlett of Plymouth Son of Robert Bartlett Deceasd to be Overseer and Guardian to my Grand daughter Rebecca Cole & Sarah Cole in the Same manner as I have appointed Mr Spooner Overseer and Guardian to Mary Durfey ~

Finally I Constitute my Two Good Friends Mr. Thomas Spooner and Joseph Bartlett aforesd Executors of this my last Will & Testament hereby Ratyfieing & Confirming this and no Other to be my last Will and Testament – In Witness whereof I have hereunto Sett my hand and Seal the fourth day of May Anno Domini 1737—

Signed Sealed & Datd                                                                                                        Rebecca Cole

in Presence of us                                                                                                                            R                                                 (seal)

and allso by Mrs Cole                                                                                                              her make

declared to be her last

Will & Testament

in our Presence & hearing

at ye Same time

Elkanah Leonard

Thomas Myrdoch

Gersham Holmes

 

Probated on 25 Sept. 1742, and proved by Thomas Murdock and Gersham Holmes, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Mr. Thomas Spooner and Mr. Joseph Bartlett, both of Plymo., the Executors, on 25 Sept. 1742.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Mrs. Rebecca Cole late of Plymouth, was appraised by Isaac Lothrop junr., Stephen Churchell, and Haviland Torrey on 12 Oct. 1742, and totaled about £1017.5.6. Thomas Spooner and Joseph Bartlett, the Executors, gave their oath to the inventory on 14 Jan. 1742[/43].

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 8, p. 537-539, and Vol. 9, p. 23-25.

 

 

Will of Samuell Cole of Duxbury, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1756) *

                In the Name of God Amen~

the eighteenth day of October in the Year of our Lord one thousand Seven Hundred & fifty six, I Samuell Cole of Duxborough in the County of Plimouth in New England, Yeoman, being Sick & weak of body, but of perfect mind & Memory thanks be given unto God for the same and therefore calling unto mind the mortality of my body & Knowg that it is appointed for all men once to dye Doe make & ordain this to be my last Will and Testament, that is to say, Principally and first of all I Give and Recommend my soul into the hands of God that Gave it, and my body I recomend to the earth to be buried in a Decent and Christain manner at the Discretion of my Execr. hereafter named nothing Doubting but at the Great & Generall Resurrection I Shall Receive the same again by the Almighty Power of God, and as Touching such Worldly goods & Temporal estate wherewith it hath Pleased God to bless me in this life with, I Give, Demise & Dispose of the same in the following manner and Form

Imprs. My Will is that all my Just Debts & Funerall charges be Defraied & paied out of my Estate, Item I Doe Give & Bequeath unto my Loving Sister the widow Sarah Delano the whole or residue or Remainder of all my estate in whatsoever kind or Species it is & Wheresoever it may be found of all Sorts or kinds that I have To Her the said Sarah Delano, her Heirs & Assigns forever, but if in case my said Sister Sarah Delano Should die before I should die that then the aforesd. estate of mine that is all that I have I doe Give and Bequeath to my Loving an Dutifull Kindsman John Delano, the sd. Sarah’s son to Him his Heirs & assigns forever And I do hereby Constitute & appoint my Trusty Frind Ichabod Wadsworth to be the sole Execr. of this my Last Will & Testamt. & doe hereby utterly disallow and Dissanull all and every other & former wills & Testament & Bequests by me in any before named made, Willed or Bequeathed, ratifying and Confirming this & no Other to be my last Will and Testament, In Witness whereof I the said Samuell Cole have hereunto sett my hand & Seal the Day and Year above Written ~

Signed Sealed published pronounced                                                                                             his

& Declared by the said Saml. Cole                                                                                   Samuell  +  Cole                                  (seal)

to be his last Will and Testamt.                                                                                                        mark

 In the presence of us Subscribers

  John Alden

  Luna Wadsworth

  John Wadsworth

 

Presented for probate on 3 Jan. 1757, and proved by John Alden and Luna Wadsworth, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Ichab Wadsworth of Duxborough Yeoman, Execr. in the same Will named, on 3 Jan. 1757.

 

The Inventory of the estate of Samuell Cole, late of Duxborough, appraised by Saml. Seabury, John Wadsworth, and John Hunt on 6 Jan. 1757, totaled £100.13.0¾, no real estate. Ichabod Wadsworth, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 7 Mar. 1757.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 14, pp. 300-302, 382, from FHL microfilm #0551542.

 

 

Will of Thomas Cole of Middleborough, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1759) *

In the name of God Amen  I Thomas Cole of Midleborough in the County of Plymouth In New England being at this Time weak and low In health but of Sound disposeing minde and memory Thanks be Given To the lord for the Same Do make and ordain this my last will and Testament in manner and form following First of all I Recommend My Sole into ye hands of God who gave it and my bodey To the Earth In Decent Burial at the Charge of my Executr hereafter nameed and as Touching my worldly Estate wherewith it hath pleased ye Lord to Bless me I Give Demise & Dispose of the Same in manner & form following

Imprimis I Give & Bequeth To my well beloved wife Mary Cole the Improvement of one half of my house and all my Indore Movebels Excepting My Gun and ye Bed where My Son Thomas Cole lodgeth on During her life

Item I Give and Bequeth to my Son Archipus Cole a Certain lot of land In the Township of Plymouth near Crane Brook Containing about a Hundred Acres of land

Item I Give and bequeth to my Son Thomas Cole the one half of the Remang Part of my home stead land that I have not Given him a Deed of

Item I Give & Bequeth To my Son Archipus Cole ye. other part of My home stead land undisposed of

Item I Give and bequeth to my well beloved wife Mary Cole the third Part of the Improvement of my Real Estate and my Two heffers yerly

Item I Give my Son Thomas Cole my Part of my oxen and horse my Cart & Plow and all my Tooles & Instruments necessary for husbandry my Gun & Bed whereon he usually lodgeth and all the furniture thereunto Belonging. Item I Give my Daughter Mary Drake the wife of John Drake one half of my indoor movables already undisposed of after my wifes Deceas

Item I give & Bequeth To my Daughter Joanna Cole the other half of my Indore Movables already undisposed of after my wifes Decease

Item I give & bequeth To my Son Thomas Cole all the Remaining part of my Estate undisposed of both Real and Personal and order him To Receve and Recour all my Just Debts and Pay all I am Indebted to

Finally My Will is that My Son Thomas Cole be Sole Executor to this my last will & Testament Desiring that the Same may be Kept and Performed in All the Branches there of according to the True intent and meaning In Confiurmatin where of I the aforesd. Thomas Cole have hereunto Set my hand and Seal May ye. 7th Day A D 1759

Signed Sealed Published prounenced & Declared

by the aforesaid Thomas Cole to be his last will                                                            Thomas Cole                                     (seal)

and Testament in Presence of

Ebenezer Briggs

Saml. Eaton

Cornelius Bennett

 

Proved on 4 June 1759 by Ebenr Briggs, Saml. Eaton and Cornelus Bennett. Administration of the Estate of Thomas Cole, late of Midleborough, yeoman, granted to his Son Thomas Cole of Middleborough, yeoman, on 4 June 1759.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 15, p. 261-262, from FHL microfilm #0551543.

 

 

Will of Ithamar Combs of Rochester, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1768) *

                                                In the Name of GOD, Amen.

The sixteenth day of april A.D. 1768. I Ithamar Combs of Rochester in the county of Plymouth yeoman, calling to mind the mortality of my body, and knowing it is appointed for all men once to die, do make & ordain this my Last will and testament, recomending my soul to God that gave it, and my body to the earth to be buried in decent christian burial at the discression of my executor hereafter named, and touching such worldly estate wherewith it hath pleased God to bless me with in this Life, I give and dispose of the same in the following manner & form. ~

Imprimis. My will is and I hereby give & bequeath to my beloved wife Hannah Combs that part of my estate both real & personal that the law would endow her with in case I left the same intestate. ~

  Item, My will is and I hereby order, that my just debts & funeral charge shall be paid by my executor out of the debts due to me, & what that wants to be made up out of my live stock, but not to effect my wife,s dower. ~

  Item, I give & bequeath to my eldest son Elnathan Combs his heirs & assigns forever twenty five acres of land being part of my 12: & 13: lots in no. bounded begiñing at a bound standing in the line of the eleventh lot on the easterly side of the morssey bog so called, thence westerly in said line to the fresh meadow thence by the fresh meadow to the cedar swamp, and by said cedar swamp to Isaac Snow,s swamp, and by it to said Elnathan,s own Land, the sawing timber on these lots is hereby given in equal partnership to sd. Elnathan Combs & my daughter Hannah Bishop, & my son Caleb Combs, said twenty five acres is to be the easterly part thereof, together with the one half of my cedarswamp at the head of Sniptuet pond, and also the one half of my right & reserve in the iron oar in Wareham. This with what I have already given him is to be his portion in my estate. ~

  Item, I give and bequeath to my second son Ithamar Combs, who went to sea & hath been absent nine years without intelligence, twenty dollars in case he return, to be paid him by my executor out of my personal estate. ~

Item, I give & bequeath to my third son Benjamin Combs his heirs & assigns forever all my lands lying southerly & easterly from & adjoining to the lands before give to his brother Elnathan together with the tenth lot I bought of Peter Tomson, also all my right in the mills being one eighth of each, also the one half of my outdoor movables not before dispos’d off & the other half of the reserved iron oar. ~

Item, I give & bequeath to my fourth son Caleb Combs his heirs & assigns forever, all my homestead farm adjoining together with the appurtenances, and my fresh meadow lot at the head of the neck, & six acres of the land adjoining to it, and one half of my outdoors movables not before disposed off, also my right in Sippecan mill pond bought of William Blackmer as p. his deed to me.

Item, I give to my daughter Hannah Bishop her heirs & assigns forever all the remainder of that tract of land whereof I gave my son Elnathan twenty five acres at the east end, & six acres to my son Caleb at the west end. ~

Item, I give & bequeath to my three daughters namely Chloe Combs, Priscilla Combs, & Abia Combs, the residue of my indoors movables not otherwise disposed off, in equal partnership, also my will is that my said three daughters Chloe, Priscilla & Abia be paid thirteen pounds, six shillings & eight pence each, by my three sons viz, Elnathan, Benjamin, & Caleb when Caleb comes of age, in the following proportion viz, Elnathan six pounds, Benjamin seventeen pounds, & Caleb seventeen pounds, with the liberty of living in my dwelling house till their marriage day.

  Item, I give & bequeath to my two youngest sons Benjamin Combs & Caleb Combs my wearing apparel and all the other estate not herein disposed off in equal partnership. ~

  Finally, I hereby constitute, ordain & make my eldest son Elnathan Combs sole executor of this my last will & testament, disallowing all others, and ratifying & confirming this to be so. In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal the day & year above-written. ~

Signed, sealed, published, pronounced,

by the sd. Ithamar Combs as his last will                                                                         Ithamar Combs                                (seal)

& testament in presence of us subscribers,

Joseph Peirce, Martha Peirce,

                Noah Sprague.

 

Presented for probate on 1 Aug. 1768 by Elnathan Combs, the Executor therein named, and proved by Joseph Peirce and Martha Peirce, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Elnathan Combs, the before named executor.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Mr. Ithamar Combs, late of Rochester, was appraised on 20 July 1768 by Noah Sprague, Jacob Bennet, and David Peirce, and totaled £573.17.1, including his real estate valued at £427.5.8. Elnathan Combs, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 1 Aug. 1768.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 20, p. 94-96, from FHL microfilm #0550711.

 

 

Will of David Conant of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1792) *

        In the name of God amen – I David Conant of Bridgwater in the county of Plymouth, in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts yeoman – being infirm in body but of sound & disposing mind & memory, do make and ordain this my Last will & testament in manner & form following–viz~– I Give & recommend my soul into the hands of almighty God that gave it, and my body I recommend to the earth, to be decently Interred at the discretion of my Executor, and touching such worldly Estate which it hath pleased God to bless me with, I will and bequeath the same in the follow manner and form–viz~

        Imprimis – I Give & bequeath to my well beloved wife Sylva and to her heirs & assigns forever, all my houshold furniture & personal Estate after my debts are paid, and I give her the improvement of all my Lands & buildings for the support of my Children, ‘till my son David Conant comes of age, and after that the improvement of one half so long as she remains my widow

2dly – I Give & bequeath to my Daughters Martha & Susanna Conant, the one half of my real Estate, and to come into possession of one half assigned to them when my son David Conant is of age also the other half assigned to them after their mother’s decease –

3dly– I Give & bequeath to my son David Conant the one half of my real Estate, and to come into possession of one half assigned to him when he is twenty one years of age, also to come into possession of the other half after his mothers decease

Lastly – I do hereby constitute & appoint my brother Peter Conant & Sylva my wife, my Executors of this my Last will & testament hereby Ratifying this and no other to be my Last will & testament. In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand & seal the twenty second day of November A Dom one thousand seven hundred and ninety two

                                                                                                                                                David Conant                   (seal)

        Signed sealed published pronounced & declared by ye. sd. David Conant to be his Last will & testament in the presence of us the subscribers

        Jona. Leonard

        Jona. Benson

        Jacob Peirce

 

Presented for probate on 7 Jan. 1793 by Sylvia Conant, one of the Executors, and proved by Jonathan Leonard and Jonathan Benson, two of the witnesses. Letters Testamentary were granted to the Executrix Sylva Conant, Peter Conant the other Executor having refused on 7 Jan. 1793.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 33, p. 249-250, from FHL microfilm #0550717.

 

 

Will of Ezra Conant of Windsor, Windsor County, Vermont (1795) *

                                In the Name of God, Amen!

                                                I Ezra Conant of Windsor, in the County of Windsor and State of Vermont, being in bodily Health, and of sound & disposing Mind DO make, ordain, constitute and appoint the following to be my Last Will & Testament; viz, commending my Spirit to God who gave it, thro. the merits of the Redeemer, and consigning my body to the Dust, to be decently buried, at the Discretion of my Executor herein after mentioned; I dispose of my worldly substance in manner following. — — —

        Imprimis, I give and bequeathe to my present Wife, Anna Conant, on my Decease, all and every part of my house hold Furniture, except as is herein after devised; and also, I give and bequeath to my said wife, all the improvements, issues, rents & profits of all and singular of the real estate of which I shall die seized, lying and being in the Town of Warwick in the County of Hampshire, and Commonwealth of Massachusetts together with the use of one horse and two Cows during her life. — — —

        Item. I give and bequeathe to my three Grand Children, Sally, Samuel & Learned Conant, Children of my late son Doctor Ezra Conant, of Oxford, in the County of Worcester & Commonwealth of Massachusetts, the sum of six shillings, each, to be paid to them respectively, by my Executor, within six months after the Decease of my said Wife Anna Conant.—

        Item, I give and bequeathe to my Daughter, Millicent, Wife of Thomas Rich, of Shoreham, in the County of Addison & State of Vermont, one of my poorest Feather beds, with one set of Placing bed Furniture, to be delivered to her within six months after my Decease, and also, Six pounds eighteen shillings lawful money to be paid to her within six months after the Death of my said wife. — — —

        Item. I give and bequeathe to my Son Amos Conant of Claremont, in the County of Cheshier, & State of New Hampshier, twenty six pounds lawful money, to be paid to him within six months after the death of my said Wife. — — —

        Item. I give & bequeathe to the two Daughters of my late son Ebenezer Conant, late of Claremont aforesaid, viz, Molly & Millecent Conant, six shillings each, to be paid to them respectively, by my Executor as aforesaid.—

        Item. I give and bequeathe to my Daughter Jemima, Wife of Jeremiah Deane, of Unity in the County of Chishire & State of New Hampshire, one of my poorest Feather beds, with one plain Set of bed Furniture to be paid to her within six months after my Decease; and Also, two pounds, twelve shillings lawful money, to be paid in six months after the Death of my said Wife. — —

        Item, I give to my Son, Jhon Conant, of Warwick aforesaid, thirty pounds, lawful money, to be paid to him, by my Executor, within six months from the Decease of my said Wife.

        Item. I give and bequeathe to my Son Stephen Conant, of Windsor aforesaid, Forty pounds, lawful money, to be paid as last aforesaid—

        Item. I give and bequeathe to my Son Benjamin Conant, of Warwick aforesaid, Five pounds lawfull money, to be paid as aforesaid — — —

        Item, I give and bequeathe to my Daughter, Anne, wife of Charles Conant, of said Warwick, five pounds to be paid as aforesaid —

        Item, I give to my Son Clark Conant, of Warwick aforesaid all my personal estate not herein before devised. Also I give to my said Son Clark Conant, all my real Estate of which I shall die seized, either in Warwick or elsewhere, subject to the incumbrance herein before expressed, and to the payment of the Legacies herein before bequested, to my just debts and funeral charges, to Have & to Hold to him the said Clark Conant, His Heirs and Assigns forever …

                And I DO make and ordain my said Son Clark Conant, my Sole Executor of this my last Will & Testament—

                In testimony whereof I hereto set my hand & seal, this twenty seventh day of January, Anno Domini, 1795.

                                                                                                                                                Ezra Conant                                      (seal)

                Signed, sealed & published by the said Ezra

Conant as & for his Last Will & Testament in the

presence of us, who subscribed our names as Wit-

nesses in the Testator’s presence, & at his request

                Stephen Jacob

                Pamela Jacob

                Laura Jacob

                Harriet Jacob

 

Presented for probate on 15 Dec. 1804 by Clark Conant, of Windsor, the Executor therein named, and proved by Stephen Jacob Esqr. & Laura Jacob, two of the witnesses.

 

14 Dec. 1812, Mr. Benjamin Tollis of Weathersfield in said district is appointed administrator de bonis non with will annexed on the estate of Ezra Conant late of Windsor deceased, Clark Conant the Executor of said Ezra Conant’s will having lately died without fully administering on said estate.

 

Receipt of Benja. Conant of Warwick to Benjamin Tolles of Weathersfield for his share of the estate of his father, Ezra Conant, on 3 June 1814.

Receipt of Stephen Conant of Windsor to Benjamin Tolles of Weathersfield for his share of the estate of his father, Ezra Conant, on 6 Sept. 1813.

Receipt of Amos Conant of Irasburgh in Vermont to Benjamin Tollis of Weathersfield for his share of the estate of his father, Ezra Conant, on 16 June 1814.

Receipt of John Conant of Browington, Vermont, to Benjamin Tolles of Weathersfield for his share of the estate of his father, Ezra Conant, on 21 Dec. 1812.

 

Receipt of Thomas Rich & Millicent Rich of Shoreham, Addison County, Vermont, to Benjamin Tolles of Weathersfield for their share in the estate of Ezra Conant, on 6 Oct. 1813.

Receipt of Charles Conant of Shoreham, Vermont, to Benjamin Tolles of Weathersfield for the share to Anna, wife of Charles Conant, in the estate of Ezra Conant, on 6 Oct. 1813.

Receipt of Jeremiah Conant of Unity, Cheshire County, New Hampshire, for the share to my late wife Jemima Deane, of Unity, late wife of Jeremiah Deane, to Benjamin Tollis of Weathersfield, on 5 Mar. 1814.

Receipt of John Rich to Clark Conant, Executor, for a bed & bedding willed to daughter Millicent Rich from the estate of Ezra Conant on 17 June 1806.

Receipt of Jeremiah Deane to Clark Conant, Executor, for a bed & bedding willed to Jemima Deane from the estate of Ezra Conant on 1 July 1806.

 

Elisabeth Conant, widow of Clark Conant, late of Windsor, deceased, and Benjamin Tollis of Weathersfield were granted administration of the estate of Clark Conant on 19 Dec. 1811. The inventory of the estate of Clark Conant, not dated, totaled $3090.06, including his real estate valued at $2122.50, and filed on 5 Feb. 1812.

 

Receipt of Dudley Morrell & Molly Morrell, of Unity, Cheshire County, New Hampshire, to Benjamin Tolles of Weathersfield for the share to Molly Conant from the estate of Ezra Conant on 5 Mar. 1814.

Receipt of Leonard Conant to Clark Conant, Executor, for his share of the estate of Ezra Conant, on 23 Feb. 1809.

Receipt of Ambrose Parmele of Windsor & Millycent Parmele his wife to Benjamin Tolles of Weathersfield for the share to Millicent Conant from the estate of Ezra Conant on 20 Feb. 1814.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Windsor District, Windsor County, Vermont, Probate Records, Vol. 5, pp. 8-10 [will & proving], 6 [adm. de bonis non], 7 [receipts], 18 [receipts], 46-47 [admin. of Clark], 62-63 [receipts], from FHL microfilm #0029172.

 

 

Will of John Conant of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1812) *

In the name of God amen – I John Conant of Bridgwater in the County of Plymouth in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts yeoman being somewhat advanced in Life, but of a sound Mind & memory, blessed be God for the same wherefore calling to mind the mortality of my Body knowing it is appointed to all men once to die, do make this to be my last will & Testament to remain firm & inviolable forever principally & first of all, I give my Soul to God that gave it & my Body I recommend to the Dust to be buried in a decent & Christian manner at the discretion of my Executor hereafter named, trusting that the same shall be raised again in the general Resurrection by God’s Almighty Power, & as to such worldly Estate, as it hath pleased God to bless me with, I dispose of in the following Manner:— viz –

Imprimis I give & bequeath unto my true & beloved Wife Abial the Lease of the Lands & Buildings, which we now jointly possess after my just Debts & funeral charges & the Expence of settling my Estate is first taken out & also that Zenas Conant my Son provide all things necessary for the Comfort & Convenience of Abial my Wife.—

Item. – I give & bequeath to my Son John Conant the Sum of five Dollars to be paid in Stock or Farm produce in one year after my decease by my Executor. –

Item – I give & bequeath to my Son Jeremiah Conant the Sum of five Dollars to be paid in one year after my decease by my Executor.—

Item I give & bequeath to my Son Thomas Conant the Sum of five Dollars to be paid in one Year after my decease by my Executor.—

Item I give & bequeath to my Daughter Abial the Wife of John Willis the Sum of five Dollars to be paid in one Year after my decease also one third part of my indoor moveables (my wearing Apparel excepted,) after the decease of both me & my Wife, these to be paid delivered by my Executor: –

Item, I give & bequeath to my Daughter Lucy the Wife of Ziba Hayward the Sum of five Dollars to be paid in Stock or Farm produce in one Year after my decease also one third part of my indoor moveables (my wearing Apparel excepted) after the decease of both me & my Wife, these to be paid & delivered by my Executor. —

Item I give & bequeath to my Daughter Silva the Wife of Silvanus Conant the Sum of five Dollars in Stock or farm Produce, to be paid in one Year after my decease, also one third part of my indoor Moveables (my wearing Apparel excepted) after the decease of both me & my Wife – These to be paid & delivered by my Executor.—

Item. I give & bequeath to my four Sons, John, Zenas, Jeremiah & Thomas all my wearing Apparel to be equally distributed among them.—

Item I give & bequeath to my Son Zenas all my Cattle farming Utensils & all outdoor Moveables of what name or nature soever.—

Lastly my Will is & I do hereby appoint my Son Zenas Conant Executor to this my last Will & Testament, thus hoping that this my last Will & Testament will be kept & performed according to the true Intent & meaning thereof – I the before named John Conant have hereunto set my hand & Seal this tenth day of April in the Year of our Lord eighteen hundred & twelve –

signed Sealed published, pronounced

& declared by the before named John Conant

to be his last Will & Testament in presence of us                                                         John Conant                                      (seal)

                Cornelius Holmes Junr.

                Ezra Conant

                Hitty Holmes

 

Presented for probate on 6 May 1816 by Zenas Conant, the Executor therein named, and proved by Cornelius Holmes Junr. and Ezra Conant, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Zenas Conant, the before named Executor.

 

Ezra Conant, yeoman, Rufus Wood, Gentleman, and Cornelius Holmes Junr., Cordwainer, all of Bridgwater, were appointed to appraise the Estate of John Conant, late of Bridgwater, yeoman, on 6 May 1816. The Inventory of the Estate of John Conant, late of Bridgwater, dated 27 May 1816, totaled $82.00, no real estate. Zenas Conant, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 1 July 1816.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 48, pp. 51-52, 118, from FHL microfilm #0550905.

 

 

Will of Nathan Conant of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Massachusetts Bay (1778) *

In the Name of God Amen September 29th 1778 I Nathan Conant of Bridgwater in the County of Plymouth husbandman, being now of a sound & disposing mind & memory, yet calling to mind the mortality of my body & knowing that it is appointed unto all men once to die do now make & ordain this to be my Last Will and testament in the first place, I Give and recommend my soul into the hands of that God who Gave it, and my body I commit to the dust to be buried with christian decent burial at the discretion of my Executors hereafter named, and as to my worldly Interest, I dispose of it in the following manner

First–‘tis my Will that all my debts and funeral charges be well & truly paid in convenient time after my decease

2d. I Give & bequeath unto my well beloved wife Hannah, the improvement of all my Estate, Goods Buildings &c, ‘till my son Caleb Conant arrives to the age of twenty one years, and after that time the improvement of one third of all my Lands and buildings, during Life, and one third of all my moveable Estate I Give to her, her heirs and assigns forever

3d – I Give and bequeath unto my well beloved Son Caleb Conant, three Quarters of my whole Estate of every sort & kind to him, his heirs and assigns forever

4 – I Give & bequeath unto my well beloved daughters, Hannah, Lois, Martha, Rebecca, Mary, One Quarter of all my Estate, of every sort & kind, my Buildings Excepted my daughter Hannah to have but half so much as one of her sisters, and my daughters, while they remain unmarried to have the priviledge of my house to dwell in

5 – ‘tis my will and pleasure that my Mother in Law the widow Mary Lazel should have her support out of my Estate during her Life

6 – Finally, I constitute & appoint my well beloved son Caleb together with my Brother Ezra Conant to be Executors of this my Last Will & testament In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal the day and year above written ~                                                                   his

signed, sealed, published & declared by the said Nathan                                           Nathan  X  Conant                              (seal)

Conant as his Last Will & testament in presence of us                                                         mark

Jeremiah Washburn, Seth Rickard, Simeon Wood

 

Presented for probate on 7 Dec. 1778 by Caleb Conant and Ezra Conant, the Executors therein named, and proved by Jeremiah Washburn, Seth Rickard and Simeon Wood, the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Caleb Conant and Ezra Conant, the before named Executors.

 

The Inventory of the estate of Nathan Conant, late of Bridgwater, yeoman, was appraised on 8 Dec. 1778 by Jeremiah Washburn, Eliab Washburn and Simeon Wood, and totaled £1895.8, including his real estate valued at £1249. Ezra Conant, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 1 Mar. 1779.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 25, pp. 90-91, 185-186, from FHL microfilm #0550713.

 

 

Will of Nathaniel Conant of Bridgewater, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1712) *

In the Name of God Amen. July the third 1712, I Nathanael Conant Senr of the Town of Bridgewater in ye County of Plymouth in New-England Yeoman Being of Sound Judgment & Disposing Mind & Memory Praised by God therefore Yet Calling to Mind my Mortality & Knowing that it is Appointed for all Men once to dy do Make & Ordain this my last Will & Testament That is to Say —

Principally & first of all I do Recommend my Soul into the hands of God yt gave it, My Body I recommend unto ye Earth to be buried in decent Christian Burial at ye Discretion of my Executors Nothing doubting but that at ye General Resurrection I shall Recieve ye Same by ye Mighty Power of God—And as for Such Worldly Goods and Estate wherewith it hath pleased God to bless me in this Life I Give Demise & Dispose of the Same in Manner & Form as followeth~~

Imprims. I Give & Bequeath unto Hannah my dearly beloved Wife one third Part of my Homeliving both Housing & Land Together with two Cows & One Bed and Bedding & necessary Houshold Goods for her use & Comfort during her Widowhood—

Item I have already Given to my Eldest Son Nathanael Conant that Tract of Land whereon he now dwelleth by a Conveyance under my hand & Seal which I do hereby Confirm to him & to his Heirs forever, And my Will is that he therewithall rest himself Contented—

Itm to my Son Josiah Conant I Give about twenty Pounds which he hath already recieved partly toward the Purchasing of his Land where he first Settled and partly in help toward Building & Fencing & my will is yt he therewthall rest Contented.

Itm To my Youngest Son Lot Conant I have given by Deed my Homestead to be by him fully & freely Possessed & Enjoyed after my Decease & my Wifes Decease And my Will is that he Injoy two thirds thereof during My Wifes Life after Me wherewith he is to rest Contented —

Itm as for my three Eldest Daughters Bithiah Hannah & Martha who have been disposed of in Marriage I have done for Each of them respectively according to my Ability to ye Value of about Twelve Pounds Each and My Will is that both they & their Heirs do rest themselves Contented therewith

Itm To my two Youngest Daughters Lydia & Rebekah I Give & Bequeath all my Moveable Estate wch shall remain after my Wifes Decease to be equally Divided betwixt them.

Finally I nominate & Appoint Hannah my Wel beloved Wife Executrix & my Eldest Son Nathanael Executor of this my Last Will & Testament utterly Renouncing Revoking & Disallowing all other Wills Testaments Legacies Bequests or Executrs by Me heretofore made devised or named Ratifying & Establishing this & none other to be my last Will & Testament In Witness whereof I have hereunto Set my hand & Seal the day & Year Abovewritten

Signed Sealed Pronounced & Declared by ye sd

Nathanl. Conant as his Last Will & Testamt.                                                                 Nathanael Conant           (Seal)

In ye Presence of us  Joseph Hayward

Nathanael Brett   Seth Brett

 

Augst ye 24.1732 The above named Nathaniel Brett made oath that he Saw the Above named Nathaniel Conant Sign Seal & heard him Declare the Abovewritten Instrument to be his last Will & Testament And that he at ye Same time together with Joseph Hayward & Seth Brett in ye Presence of ye sd Testator Set to their hands as Witnesses and that according to ye best of his Observation he then was of a Sound & Disposing Mind & Memory

                                                                                                                                                Before Isaac Winslow Judge of Probate

Letters of administration were given to Nathaniel Conant, the executor, on 24 Aug. 1732.

 

The inventory of the Estate of Nathaniel Conant, late of Bridgewater, was dated 18 Aug. 1732, and was appraised by Thomas Hayward, Daniel Hudson, & Benjamin Hayward, which included his homestead valued at £500, and the land where his son Nathanl lives valued at £160, and was sworn to by Nathaniel Conant, the executor, on 24 Aug. 1732.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 6, pp. 217-218, 219-220, from FHL microfilm #0550512.

 

 

Will of Nathaniel Conant of Bridgewater, County of Plymouth, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1743) *

In the Name of God Amen the Seventeenth day of March Anno Dom. 1742/3 I Nathaniel Conant of Bridgwater in the County of Plimouth in NewEngland being weak in body but of perfect mind & Memory Thanks be to god therefore Calling to mind the Mortallity of my body Do make and ordain this my Last will and Testament ~  First I Give my Soul into the hands of God and my body I Commit to the Earth to be Decently buried at the Discretion of my Executor hereafter named, and as touching my worldly Estate I dispose thereof in the following manner my Just debts funeral Charges and other Expences being first allowed.

Imprimis I Give to my Wellbeloved wife Eliazabeth Conant one half of my Personal or moveable Estate both within Doors and without to be Improved by her for her Comfort dureing her Natural life and what Remains thereof after her Decease to be Equally Divided amongst my three daughters herein after named –

Item. I Give to my son Thomas Conant Five Shillings (old tenour) haveing formerly Otherwise made provision for his Comfortable Settlement in the world.

Item I Give to my son Jeremiah Conant Five shillings (old tenour) haveing formerly made provision for his Comfortable Settement.

Item I Give to my son John Conant whom also I Constitute and appoint to be the Executor of this my Last will and Testament to him I Give Twenty shillings (old tenour) haveing otherwise made provision for his Settlement desireing him to take care of his mother and provide her Comfortable House room and fire wood &c.

Item I Give to my daughter Elizabeth Conant Fifty pounds old tenour out of that half of my moveable Estate not given to my said wife for improvement.

Item I Give to my Daughter Bethia Rickard the wife of Elkanah Rickard Ten pounds (old tenour) Out of that half of my moveable Estate not given to my said wife for improvement besides the fourty pounds which I formerly Gave her—

Item I Give to my daughter Margret Edson the wife of Abel Edson besides the fifty pounds I formerly gave her one third part of what remains of sd. half of my moveable Estate not herein Given to my sd. wife, after the perticuler sums above mentioned are taken out, and I give to my other two daughters abovenamed the other Two thirds of sd. remnant, and furthermore I Give to all my three daughters viz Bethia Rickard Margret Edson & Elizabeth Conant what shall remain after my sd. wifes decease of that part of my moveable Estate herein Given her for improvement to be Equally divided amongst them as above Expressed

Signed Sealed & pronounced & declared by the sd. Nathll. Conant to be his Last will & Testament in the presence of us

Moses Orcutt, Gersham Conant Caleb Orcutt.~                                                            Nathaniel Conant                            (seal)

 

Presented for probate on 18 Sept. 1745 by the Executor within named, and proved by Moses Orcutt, Gersham Conant and Caleb Orcutt, the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to John Conant of Bridgewater, yeoman, the sole Executor, on 18 Sept. 1745.

 

The Inventory of the estate of Nathaniel Conant was appraised on 23 Sept. 1845 by Capt. Nehemiah Washburne, Capt. Nathaniel Woodward, and Moses Orcutt, and totaled £484.13.1, but included no real estate. John Conant, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 7 Oct. 1745.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 10, p. 19-22, from FHL microfilm #0551535.

 

 

Will of Phineas Conant of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1798) *

In the Name of God Amen on the eighteenth day of April Anno Domini 1798, I Phineas Conant of Bridgwater in the County of Plymouth, being of a sound and disposing mind & memory, thanks be given to the great God, yet calling to mind the mortality of my body and knowing that it is appointed unto all men once to die do make and ordain this my last will & testament, that is to say, principally & first of all, I give & recommend my soul into the hands of that God who gave it, and my body I recommend to the dust, to be buried with christian decent burial at the discretion of my Executor hereafter named, with regard to my worldly Interest, I dispose of in the following manner – (vizt)

 Firstly Tis my will that all my debts & funeral charges be well & truly paid by my Executor hereafter named in convenient time after my decease

 2dly  I Give & bequeath unto my well beloved wife Joanna, the improvement of my dwelling house so long as she remains my widow; also the improvement of my houshold Goods & Clock, during her natural life, also two Cows to be at her disposal, to be kept by my Executor hereafter named, he also to deliver a sufficient quantity of wood at the door to maintain one fire yearly, also thirteen bushells of Corn, three bushells of Rye & thirty weight of Flax, Forty weight of beef, Ten pounds of tallow & Sauce sufficient for her own consumption; the above articles to be delivered annually, & find her a horse to ride when she needs

  3dly I Give and bequeath unto my well beloved Daughter Sarah Thirty pounds in money, to be paid by my Executor in six months after my decease, also the improvement of about one quarter of an acre of land the back side of my house now within fence, at my decease, so long as she remains unmarried; also the improvement of the easterly half of my dwelling house so long as she remains unmarried; also one half of houshold Goods to be her property after mother’s decease; also the keeping of a Cow if she provides one, so long remains unmarried

 4ly I Give and bequeath unto my well beloved daughter Joanna Conant, wife of Elias Conant the other half of my houshold Goods at her mother’s decease; also Five Pounds in money, to be paid by my Executor in six months after my decease

 5hly I Give and bequeath unto my well beloved Son Peter, to him, his heirs & assigns forever, all my lands & buildings on the easterly side of the road, except the improvement above disposed of

 6ly I Give and bequeath unto my Sons, namely, Peter, Phineas, & my Grandson David, all my wearing apparell, to be equally divided among them

 7ly It is my will, that my Sons & Daughters & Grandson David Conant Vinall have an equal right in my Pew in the meeting house

 Finally, I do hereby nominate and appoint my well beloved son Peter Conant, Sole Executor of this my last will & testament. In witness & confirmation hereof, I have hereunto Set my hand & seal the day and year aforesaid

Signed, Sealed, Published, Pronounced

and declared by the said Phineas Co-                                                                              Phinehas Conant                             (seal)

nant, as his last will & testament

in presence of us

                Nathaniel Pratt

                Sylvanus Pratt

                Solomon Hayward

 

Presented for probate on 4 June 1798 by Peter Conant, the Executor therein named, and proved by Nathl. Pratt and Sylva. Pratt, two of the witnesses.

No inventory was recorded for his estate.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 36, p. 383-385, from FHL microfilm #0550719.

 

 

Will of Rev. Sylvanus Conant of Middleborough, Plymouth County, Massachusetts Bay (1777) *

In the name of God Amen – I Sylvanus Conant of Middleborough in the County of Plymouth and State of Massachusetts Bay, do make this my Last Will & Testament ~

First—I resign my Soul to God my only Saviour and my body to the dust at his call in hope of a Glorious resurrection –

Secondly—my Estate I dispose of as followeth 1st. to my Brother Gershom Conant, I Give Sixty pounds and the note I have upon him for three pounds, eighteen shillings, allso to my Brother Lot Conant I Give Sixty Four pounds, for the benefit of them and their heirs forever to be paid in one year after my decease ~

Item—To Hannah Conant widow of my Brother Timothy Conant deceased, I Give Ten pounds, and to her children which she hath by said Timothy, Sixty pounds, I Give to be equally divided among them, only Excluding from this division my Nephew Sylvanus the son of my Brother Timothy who is Else where taken notice of, the Sons to be paid their dividend at the age of One & twenty years and the daughters at the age of Eighteen years, from this division Deborah Conant daughter of said Timothy is allso Excluded being taken notice of Else where ~

Item—To my Sister Deborah Washburn wife of Isaac Washburn, I Give Forty pounds to be paid to her in three months after my decease, allso One Quarter part of my household Furniture not disposed of Else where in this Instrument ~

Item—To Miss Rebecca Scollay (who has Lived in my house & taken a Good & prudent care of my Family for many years) Sixty pounds & allso my best Feather bed & bolster, two pillows & pillow Cases & the Curtains & Quilt or Coverlid thereto belonging & two pair of sheets & one pair of Blanketts, as allso my Sconu[?] Looking Glass, to her & her heirs forever, allso the priviledge of dwelling in my house & of using or improving unmolested, any part or parts of the furniture belonging to the house (besides what I have Given her for her own property) with the priviledge allso of keeping one Cow on the place, for the Space of one year after my decease, the above named priviledges are Granted to her only on condition she inclines to dwell in the house ~

Item—I Give the other three Quarters of my house Furniture not already disposed of, to my niece Deborah Conant, daughter of my Brother Timothy Conant deceased, & Sixty pounds in money – note, both the money & furniture to be paid & delivered to her, when she is Eighteen years of Age ~

Item—my wearing apparell to my three Brethern. Gershom, Lot & Phinehas to be Equally divided between them

Item—To the Revd. Mr. William Conant of Lime in New Hampshire Government, the One half of my Library, & the other half to my above named three brethren & Sister, to be Equally divided among them ~

Item—To my Negro man Cuffy, who has behaved in a Good & faithfull manner, I Give his Freedom & Forty pounds, together with his wearing apparell & the bed & bedding he now useth – the money to be paid him in three months & the other things delivered to him directly after my decease

Item—After the above named Legacies & my Lawful debts are paid by my Executor hereafter named, I Give to my Brother Phinehas Conant & his heirs forever, one third part of the Residue of my Estate, & the other two thirds of the Residue of my Estate to Sylvanus Conant, the Son of my Brother Timothy Conant deceased, to him & his heirs forever, to be put in possession of the same at twenty one years of Age ~

And I do hereby appoint my Brother Phinehas Conant to be the Executor of this my Last Will & Testament, who is to pay the above named Legacies & debts

In Witness whereof I the said Sylvanus Conant have hereunto set my hand & Seal this Fifth day of December in the year of our Lord One thousand, seven hundred & Seventy seven

Signed, Sealed, published & declared by the

said Sylvanus Conant the testator as & for                                                                     Sylvanus Conant                              (seal)

his Last Will & testament in presence of us

who were present at the signing & sealing hereof

                                Chandler Robbins

Testes ~                 Caleb Turner

                                Daniel Howland

 

NB—the interlining & blothing out in the above Will & testament were done before the signing, sealing & declaring the same by the testator—as the witnesses also attest ~

NB—The testator Likewise declared before witnesses, that it is his meaning & Will, that Miss Rebecca Scollay, should have her Liberty to make use of the provisions for the Subsistance of the Family, during her stay in the house, & the rest of the family for the time being

Item—that he does also Give to Miss Mary Jacock the Sunu-Looking Glass & dressing table in his study chamber, in token of his Love & her faithfull attendance on him both in health & in his Last sickness

 

Presented for probate on 6 July 1778 by Phinehas Conant, the Executor therein named, and proved by Chandler Robbins and Daniel Howland, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Phinehas Conant, the before named Executor.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of the Revd. Mr. Silvanus Conant, late of Middleborough, was appraised in Sept. 1778 by Seth Pratt, James Allen junr. and Hezekiah Hooper, and totaled £4126.5.5, including his real estate valued at £1500. The appraisers gave their oath to the inventory on 19 Nov. 1778, and Phinehas Conant, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 19 Nov. 1778.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 25, p. 25-29, from FHL microfilm #0550713.

 

 

Will of Thomas Conant of Bridgewater, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1774) *

In the name of God Amen – On the Eighteenth day of May Anno Domini one thousand Seven Hundred & Seventy four I Thomas Conant of Bridgwater in the County of Plymouth, yeoman, being now in a State of health and of a Sound and disposing mind & memory, proceed to make this my Last will and testament – in the first place I Give and Recommend my Soul into the hands of the Great God who Gave it, trusting in his mercy through Jesus Christ, for pardon Grace and Glory; and my body I Commit to the Earth to be decently buried at the discretion of my Executor hereafter named, and as to my worldly Interest, I dispose of it in the following manner vizt–my will is that my funeral Charges and just debts be discharged in Convenient time by my Executor. ~

Item–I Give and bequeath unto my well beloved wife Mary the improvement of one third part of my Real Estate during the time she shall Continue my widow, further I Give unto her to be intirely at her dispose one Cow and all my Indoor moveables excepting my wearing apparell, two feather Beds and Iron ware, and in Case my said wife shall Live in my Dwelling House and agree with my Son Ezra not have her thirds Sett off out of the Real Estate, but for him to improve it, then I Give unto her the keeping of her Cow and one more to be provided for her by my Son Ezra, also firewood brought for her to the door of the House and also the keeping of two Swine all this while she shall Continue my widow. ~

Item–I Give and bequeath to my Son Nathan his Heirs and assigns the one half of my Home Stable by the South meeting House in Bridgwater which together with what I have Given him heretofore is his part of my Estate

Item–I Give and bequeath unto my Son Abner Six pounds thirteen shillings & four pence to be paid to him in one year after my decease, in Cash or in Cattle at Cash price, which together with what I have Given before is his part of my Estate. –

Item–I Give and bequeath unto my Daughter Sarah, wife to John Hefford Forty Shillings which is her portion of my Estate with what I have already Given her –

Item–I Give and bequeath unto my Daughters, namely Mary the wife of Zebulon Bryant & Zilpha the wife of Samuel Keith junr five Shillings a piece which is their portions, with what I have already Given them

Item–I Give and bequeath unto my three Daughters namely Jedidah, Abigail and Keturah Thirteen pounds, six shillings & eight pence a piece in one year after my decease, to be paid in Goods Suitable to keep House with

Item–I Give unto Seth Lathrop of Easton, who married my Daughter Martha (now deceased and no Issue Living) the Sum of five Shillings ~

Item–I Give and bequeath unto my Son Ezra the Other half of my Home Stable by the South meeting House to him his Heirs and assigns Further I Give unto him my apparell two feather Beds and Iron ware before mentioned also all my personal Estate not before disposed of, of what name or nature soever—and having Given him my Homestead and other Lands by Deed of Gift, I do hereby injoin him to pay my just debts, funeral Charges and all the Legacies herein mentioned—also I injoin him (in Case my said wife shall agree with him as aforesaid) to keep her Cow for her; also to find and keep her another Cow, also two Swine, also to procure fire wood for her at her door, all this while she shall Continue my widow—and I do hereby nominate and appoint my said Son Ezra Sole Executor of this my Last will and testament—In witness whereof I have hereunto Set my hand and Seal the day and year aforesaid — memorand. the word a piece was interlined between the first & Second Line of this page before Signing &c ~

Signed Sealed, published, pronounced and declared

by the said Thomas Conant as his Last will and tes-                                                    Thomas Conant                                (seal)

tament in presence of

                                John Conant

                                Jeremiah Washburn

                                Zenas Conant ~

 

Presented for probate on 2 July 1787 by Ezra Conant, the Executor therein named, and proved by Jeremiah Washburn and Zenas Conant, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Ezra Conant, yeoman, the before named Executor, with Jeremiah Washburn, Gentleman, and Zenas Conant, yeoman, all of Bridgwater, as sureties.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 30, p. 157-159, from FHL microfilm #0550716.

 

 

Will of William Conant of Bridgewater, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1748) *

In the Name of God, Amen, the third Day of February, Seventeen Hundred Forty Seven, Eight. I William Conant of Bridgwater in the County of Plimouth within His Majesty’s province of Massachusets Bay in New England Husbandman Being in the Exercise of Reason and under Standing, thanks be Given to God, and Calling to mind the mortality of my Body Do make and Ordain this my last Will & Testament, that is to say, principally and first of all I Give & Recommend my Soul Into the hands of God that Gave it, and my Body, I Recommend to the Earth to be Bury’d in Decent Christain Burial at the Discretion of My Executor, Hopeing at the Generall Resurrection I shall Receive the Same by the Mighty power of God; And as Touching Such worldly Estate as God has blessed me with I Give Divise and Dispose of the same in the following maner and form—

Imps. I Give to my beloved Daughter Mary Whitman, the sum of Five pounds to be paid in Bills of the Old Tenn’r Out of my Estate ~

Item, I Give to my Beloved Daughter Elizabeth Hayward Five pounds to be paid in Bills of the Old Tenn’r, out of my Estate –

Item, I Give to my beloved Daughter Hannah One Cow

Item, I Give to my beloved Daughter Sarah One Cow

Item, I Give to my beloved Daughter Ruth One Cow,

            and to my three Daughters last mentioned, Hannah, Sarah, and Ruth, I Give use and Improvement of the Old Ende of my Dwelling House, so long as they; or Either of them shall Live Unmaried or have Occation for it; I Give to those my three Daughters Hannah, Sarah and Ruth, that part of my Orchard, which Contains three Rows of Apple trees, from the Dwelling House through the Orchard Lying next to the Roade that Goes from my House to Collo. Holmans House, for their use and Comfort so long as they Or Either of them shall Live Unmaried Or have Ocation for it; I Give these my three Daughters, Hannah, Sarah and Ruth, Four Acres of land at the upper End of the Farm Begining with roade Above mentioned and Runing to the River Joyning upon the Land Belonging to Isaac Lazell for their Own forever and to these my three Daughters Hannah, Sarah, & Ruth, I Give my Old maire, my Saddle, Bridle and pillion, with all my moveables within Doors, And my Will further is that my son David Conant shall keep the mare and three Cows, Given to my three Daughters Hannah, Sarah, & Ruth, and that he shall keep a Cow for Each of these my Daughters they procureing the Cows, both Summer & winter so long as they shall Live Unmaried in the House he haveing the Improvement of their Land Only the Three Rows of apple Trees Abovementioned Shall belong to them and be Inioyed by them, and that my Son David Shall find these my Daughters Sufficiant Fire Wood So Long as they or Either of them Shall Live Unmaried in the House —

Item, I Give to my Grandson David Conant Junr, My Little Orchard On the South Side of Plimouth Roade with all the Appurtenances thereto belonging—

And All the Rest and Residue of my Estate both Real and personall I Give to my son David Conant whome I do appoint and Constitute Sole Executor of this my Last will and Testament; In Witness where of I have hereunto Sett my hand and Seal the Day and year Above written

Sign’d, Seal’d, pronounced

and Declared by the said William

Conant to be his Last Will &                                                                                             William Conant                                (seal)

Testament In presents of us

the Subscribers —

Josiah Hayward

Seth Mitchell

Nathl. Hayward

 

Presented for probate on 6 Mar. 1754 by the Executor therein named, and proved by Josiah Hayward and Nathan Hayward. Letters of Administration were granted to David Conant of Bridgwater, Yeoman, the Executor, on 6 March 1754, with Edward Mitchell of Bridgwater, yeoman, as surety.

Mary Whitman, widdow of Nicholas Whitman decd, Elizabeth Hayward, widdow of Benjamin Hayward decd, Hannah Conant, Sarah Conant and Ruth Conant, single-women, all of Bridgwater, and heirs to the Estate of William Conant, late of Bridgwater, gave a receipt to David Conant, Executor of the last will and Testament of the said William Conant, for their full shares in the estate on 9 July 1753[?], witnessed by Nathan Hayward and Jonathan Conant, and sworn to on 6 May 1754.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 13, pp. 279-281, 291, from FHL microfilm #0551540.

 

 

Will and Codicil of Solva Converse of Stafford, Tolland County, Connecticut (1872) *

        In the Name of God, Amen. I, Solva Converse of Stafford County of Tolland and State of Connecticut, being of Sound & disposing mind and memory do make and ordain this my Last Will & Testament in manner and form following, viz:

First. I hereby revoke all prior wills by me at any time heretofore made; and I will that all my just debts and funeral charges be paid and discharged by my Executors hereinafter named.

Item. I give, devise and bequeath to my wife Esther Converse the use & improvement of my home farm situated in said Stafford, and is all the land that I own in said Stafford on the East and North side of Middle River, with the buildings thereon, viz: four dwelling houses and all the barns and other buildings.– and all of my farming tools; excepting and reserving from the above described lands “the Adams Farm” which is hereinafter devised to Josiah Converse, and also excepting out of the same the East Wood Lot containing about 60 or 70 acres; and also Excepting out of the same “The Meadow Lot” that I lately bought of Dwight Clark and his wife containing about 8 acres, which last two pieces of land are hereinafter willed to Julius Converse; To have and to hold unto her the said Esther Converse, the use, income, and possession of all the above described real and personal Estate (Except that which was excepted out of the same) to & for her own use and benefit for and during her natural life.

Item. I also give, devise and bequeath to my wife Esther Converse all of my household goods and furniture, Also the sum of Two Hundred Dollars, Annually, during her natural life. My Executors are to retain enough of my Estate in their hands for that purpose and they are to be the sole judges as to the amount to retain, Said sum is to be for the sole use and benefit of my wife and her heirs and assigns forever. And the same is to be in lieu of dower.  Item, I give, devise and bequeath to my son Josiah Converse “The Adams Place,” so called, lying & being in said Stafford, and is the Place or Farm I bought of Harvey Orcutt. Also all my right title and interest in and to the Pasture lands lying in Wales, Massachusetts, that my brother Parley and I bought of Mr. Tupper. Also all my real Estate & farming tools which I have heretofore in this Will given the use, income and possession of to my wife during her life, I give and devise said last mentioned premises to my son Josiah with the buildings therein and farming tools subject to the life Estate and rights of my wife therein under this will. To have and to hold all said lands, premises and personal property to him the said Josiah Converse & his heirs and assigns forever.

Item. I give, devise and bequeath to my son Orrin Converse all the real estate I own South side of the Rail Road in Stafford, and which lies West and North of the highway leading from Foxville to the Gilbert Ellis Place, so called, bounded North on the Rail Road and River to Chauncey Smiths land; westerly on said Smith’s land; South on land of Mr. Dimmock and land of Mr. Flarity, and land of Orrin Converse to highway, thence East & North to place of beginning, with one two-tenement house thereon. Also a pasture lot lying in said Stafford containing about eight acres East of Ambrose Colemans, bounded West on said Coleman’s land and land of Andrew Whiton; South on highway; East on Factory Pond, & North on Rail Road and land of Nicholas Ash to highway. Also a two Story new house lately built near the “Methodist Parsonage in Stafford Springs with one third of the lot of land this and two other houses that I own, stand on. The Lot I will my son Orrin is one third of the triangular lot to be taken on the North Easterly side of the triangle and embraces the land on which the house willed to him stands; the house is the one lately occupied by Mr. Phelps. To have and to hold the same unto him the said Orrin Converse and his heirs and assigns forever.

Item. I give, devise and bequeath to my son Julius Converse two dwelling houses standing on a triangular piece of land in Stafford Springs Village and two thirds of the land contained in said lot, the two houses stand on the Southerly and Westerly side of said lot and Julius is to have the land on which said two houses stand and enough land from the Southerly and Westerly side of said lot to make two thirds of said lot, leaving one house on the Northeast corner of the lot and one third of the lot on the North East side or corner for Orrin as herein before willed him. I also give, and devise to said Julius a lot of land lying in said Stafford, on the hill West of Glenville that I bought of Jasper Hyde, Jasper H. Bolton and Ephraim H. Hyde, being about 60 or 70 acres Bounded South and West on the Bloss Farm & by land formerly owned by Parley Converse; North on land of Mr. Hunt & Abijah Blodgitt Farm; East on land of M. B. Harvey or Glenville Co.

        Also a lot of land lying in Stafford, containing about Eight acres that I lately bought of Dwight Clark and wife, bounded North and West by Middle River; East and South by my own land. To have and to hold the same unto him, the said Julius Converse, and his heirs & assigns forever.

Item, I give, devise and bequeath to my daughter, Almeda Whiton the West half of the lot of land East of John K. Lord’s and the new house and barn I lately built on it. The Lot is to be divided North and South and said lot lies Westerly of a large Oak Tree and is bounded Westerly and Southerly by highways, and Easterly by a lot devised to my daughter Hannah. I also give her the best horse, harness, and carriage or wagon that I may own at my decease. She is to have her choice, To have and to hold the same unto her, the said Almeda Whiton and her heirs and assigns forever. Said devised land lies in Stafford contains about one acre. John K. Lord’s land lies West of said Premises part of the way, and land now or formerly owned by Mr. Cummings lies on the North.

Item. I give, devise and bequeath unto my daughter Hannah B. Washburn my large double tenement house, East of John K. Lord’s by the large Oak Tree and one half of the Lot of land on which said house stands, Said lot is to be divided North and South and the said Hannah to have the East half of the lot. It contains about one acre, lies in Stafford and is East of the lot willed to Almeda Whiton, is bounded South & East on highways. To have and to hold the same unto her the said Hannah B. Washburn & her heirs & assigns forever.

        Item. I give and bequeath to my Grand-son, Andrew Whiton One Thousand Dollars, and direct my Executors to pay the same to him out of my Estate. To have and to hold the same to him and his heirs & assigns forever.

Item. I give and bequeath to my son Julius Converse, in trust for my three grand daughters, viz: Adaline Washburn, Hannah Whiton & Esther Whiton the three daughters of my daughter Almeda Whiton, the sum of three Thousand dollars to be held in trust by my son Julius for my said three grand-daughters, in equal proportions, one thousand dollars for each of them. To have and to hold the same unto him the said Julius and his heirs and assigns forever in trust for my said three grand-daughters for their sole use and benefit. And he is to pay each of them their share from time to time in such sums and at such times as he may Judge best, he being the sole judge in that matter.

Item. I give and bequeath to Each of my grand children living at my decease (except the four children of my daughter Almeda Whiton, Who have been provided for in this Will) the sum of One Hundred Dollars, and direct my Executors, to pay the said sum to each of them out of my Estate for their own use and benefit. To have and to hold the same unto them and their heirs and assigns forever.

Item. I give and bequeath to Wealthy Converse my brother John’s daughter One Hundred dollars for her own use and benefit. To have and to hold the same to her and her heirs & assigns forever.

Item. I give and bequeath to Louis Converse my brother John’s daughter One Hundred Dollars for her own use and benefit, for her and her heirs and assigns forever.

Item. I give and bequeath to Thomas Warren of Stafford two hundred dollars for his own use and benefit. To him and his heirs and assigns forever. My Executors are to pay all the aforesaid legacies out of my Estate within Six months after my decease, except in cases where otherwise provided.

Item.                      I give, devise and bequeath to the Mineral Springs Manufacturing Company, a body politic and Corporate by the laws of this State located, having an Office & doing business in Stafford Springs Village in Stafford, my wood lot containing about two hundred acres more or less lying & being partly in Stafford and partly in Ellington and lies Southerly of the Lillibridge Farm; East on Crow Hill on land lately owned by Parley Converse; South on land of Charles Fox and Ellington line, West on Tolland Turnpike. Also I give and devise said Company a piece of land I bought of Marvin Cummings and a piece of land I bought of Preston Parkess; said last two pieces of land join and lay on the West side of the Old Turnpike and adjoining the Lillibridge Farm containing about twenty-two acres, and reference may be had to said Cummings and said Preston’s deed to me for a more particular description. I also give and devise to said Company the South part of the Lillibridge Farm, south of Turnpike Road, containing about Seventy acres. To have and to hold said last mentioned four pieces of land to the said Mineral Springs Manufacturing Company and their Successors and assigns forever.

        Item.  I give, devise and bequeath all the rest and residue of my property and Estate of Every kind and description both real and personal and all of which I may own or die possessed, including all my factory and Capital Stock in the Mineral Springs Manufacturing Company with that portion of said four pieces of land which I have devised to said Company which attach to or belong to the Capital Stock of said Co. which I own (and the said four pieces of land are to attach to all the shares of the Capital Stock alike) to my five children aforenamed, viz: to Josiah Converse, Orrin Converse, Julius Converse, Almeda Whiton and Hannah B. Washburn, in Equal proportions to be divided between them share and share alike, except my daughter Almeda Whiton (as I have given her children more than the other Grand children is to have her share Thirty-six Hundred Dollars less than either of the other shares of my other four children. And the share coming to my daughter Almeda Whiton I give and devise to her brother Julius Converse in trust, for the sole use and benefit of the said Almeda Whiton, To have and to hold the same unto them my said five children and their heirs and assigns forever in proportion aforesaid, except that the said Almeda Whiton’s share in this clause of my Will is to vest in the said Julius Converse in trust for the said Almeda Whiton. To have and to hold the same unto the said Julius Converse and his heirs and assigns for ever and for the sole use and benefit of said Almeda Whiton and in Trust for her.

Item. I further order and direct that whatever sum or sums I shall have advanced to either of my children or grand children or shall be found charged to either or any of them on my book or books at my decease, the amount or amounts so advanced and charged shall be taken and held as an advancement against the child or grandchild against whom said charge is made. Lastly I do make, constitute and appoint, my son Josiah Converse and Richard S. Beebe of Stafford Executor of this my Last Will and Testament- In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal at Stafford this     day of August A.D. 1872.

                                                                                                                                                Solva Converse                                (seal)

Signed, sealed and declared by the said Solva Converse as his Last Will & Testament in presence of us who in his presence and in the presence of each other have hereunto subscribed our names as witnesses.

Augustus Spellman             }

Henry Smith                         }  Three Witnesses

Frank C. Prouty                   }

Proved by Augustus Spellman on 12 Aug. 1872 before R. D. Davison, Justice of the Peace.

 

  Whereas I, Solva Converse of Stafford, County of Tolland and State of Connecticut made my Last Will and Testament bearing date the   day of August A. D. 1872 and proved the 12th day of August A. D. 1872, and whereas I desire to make some changes and alterations in said Will, and being of sound and disposing mind and memory, I do hereby make this as a Codicil to said Will, and I do hereby confirm my said Will dated the   day of August AD. 1872 in all things except as changed and altered by this Codicil, and except so far as the same is inconsistent with this Codicil.

And First, I except and take out of the the devise to my son, Orrin Converse and out of the Real Estate devised to him in said Will One piece of land containing about ten acres with the house on the same being the house now occupied by James Dunn and by another family; the land is the house lot connected with & on which the said house stands; said lot is bounded on one side by the Rail-Road and one side by a highway, and on the other two sides by land willed to Orrin Converse in my Will, and lies in Stafford, and I hereby give, devise and bequeath said piece of land and house to my son Josiah Converse to have and to hold the same unto him and his heirs and assigns forever. And in consideration of the same the said Josiah is to be charged the sum of Fifteen Hundred Dollars, out of any money or property coming to him out of my Estate in the settlement of the same.

Second. The Real Estate willed and given to my daughter Hannah B. Washburn in and by my said Will, is given and devised to her upon the condition that she shall not sell said Real Estate to any one during the life of Orrin Converse and Albert C. Eaton without their consent to the Same.

Third. The sum of Three Thousand Dollars given in and by my said Will to Julius Converse in Trust for my three grand-daughters, Adaline Washburn, Hannah Whiton and Esther Whiton, I hereby give to my three Grand-daughters above named in equal proportions instead of giving the same to Julius in Trust as stated in said Will. To have and to hold the same to them forever, but any sum charged to them in my book is to be deducted from said legacy, that is the sum charged to each shall be deducted from her share.

Fourth. I have given to my great grand-son Lucius F. Eaton a pair of steers now out to pasture. Should I dispose of them or any thing happen that he does not finally have or get them, then I give him Fifty Dollars to be paid him out of my estate. To have and to hold the same to him forever.

Fifth. And whereas since the making of my said Will Wealthy Converse has deceased, I give the one hundred Dollars I had willed to said Wealthy to Louis Converse, my brother Johns daughter. To have and to hold the same to her, the said Louis forever.

Lastly  I do hereby revoke so much of my said Will as constitutes and appoints my son Josiah Converse and Richard S. Beebe of Stafford Executors of my said Last Will and Testament. And I hereby constitute and appoint my son Julius Converse, Executor of my said Will & Testament dated the   day of August A.D. 1872 and proved the 12th day of August 1872. And I also appoint my son Julius Converse Executor of my said Last Will and Testament and of this Codicil which is to be annexed to said Will and to be treated as part of the same, which is confirming and treated as my Last Will and Testament and binding upon every one except so far as the same is hereby especially revoked, or so far as the same is inconsistent with this Codicil, and where inconsistent with this Codicil, this Codicil is to prevail instead of said Will. And my son Julius Converse as Executor of this Codicil and of my said Will is to execute and carry out the same in the place and stead of said Josiah Converse and Richard S. Beebe. In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal at Stafford this 15th day of September, A.D. 1877.

                                                                                                                                                Solva Converse                                (seal)

Signed, sealed and declared by the said Solva Converse as his Codicil to his said Last Will & Testament, dated the   day of August A.D. 1872 which was proved August 12th A. D. 1872, in presence of us who in his presence and in the presence of each other have hereunto subscribed our names as witnesses on this 15th day of September A. D. 1877.

Mahlon K. West of Hartford Conn.

Henry Thrall of Stafford Conn.

Erlon S. Washburn of Stafford Conn.

 

Presented for probate on 3 Dec. 1877 by Julius Converse, named Executor of said Instrument in said Codicil, and was confirmed as Executor. The Inventory of his estate was not recorded, but claims against the estate totaled $697.51. Almeda C. Whiton, Orrin Converse, Josiah Converse, and Hannah B. Washburn released all claims against the estate in June 1878.

 

Julius Converse of the Town of Stafford, posted bond as Executor of the Last Will and Testament of Solva Converse, late of Stafford, with L. W. Crane, R. S. Beebe and D. F. Fairman, of Stafford, as sureties, on 3 Dec. 1877.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Town of Stafford Register of Probate Records Vol. 20, p. 89-97, from FHL microfilm #1320435, and Vol. 2A, p. 238.

 

 

Will of Caleb Cook of Kingston, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1762) *

   The last will and Testament of Caleb Cook of Kingston in the County of Plim . In new-england Gentleman as followeth—

I the said Caleb Cook being thro: Gods mercy of a sound and disposing mind & memory in consideration of my mortality & sense of my duty & in setting my house in order before my decease do make and ordain this my last will & Testament as followeth in the first place I bequeath my soul to God who gave it hoping to be gathered to my fathers depending on the merits & grace of Christ for Salvation & my body I commit to the earth to be decently interred according to the discression of my Exr. & surviving Friends hoping for a glorious resurrection to life & immortality & as so what temporals it has pleased God to bless me with all my Just debts & funeral charges being first paid I dispose of the same as followeth viz.

Imprs. I give & bequeath to my dear and loving wife Hannah Cook so long as she shall remain my widdow my best bed and furniture for the same with the whole use & improvement of my homestead farm that was given to me by Hond. Father Francis Cook with the housing belonging to it so long as she shall remain my wdow. & in case she marry again my will is that she shall have paid her the sum of six pounds the one third part by my grandsons Bartlett & Amos [?] the sons of my son Caleb Cooke decd. equally between them & Allso I give unto my wife my best [?].

Item. I give & bequeath unto my grandsons Bartlett & Amos the sons of my late son Caleb Cook decd. to them their Heirs & assigns forever all that my lot of land lying at a place called Cooks point – Jones River meadows esteamed to be about six acres to be equally divided between them likewise one third part of my real Estate equally to be divided between them paying to my daughters as hereafter expressd, Item. I give & bequeath unto my son Benja. Cook his heirs & assigns forever one third part of my real Estate likewise my best silver headed cane, my Nocturnal my leading Staff, & musket, Paying to my daughters as hereafter expressd.

Item. I give & bequeath to my son Ephraim Cook to him his Heirs & Assigns forever one third part of my real Estate & likewise my smallest silver headed Cane my little gun, & best sword, paying to my daughters as hereafter expresd.

Item I give & bequeath unto my daughter Hannah Cook one feather bed & furniture for the same eighty six pounds thirteen shillings & four pence to be payd her within three years after my decease that is to say twenty eight pounds seventeen shillings & nine pence to be paid her with three years after my decease a year till paid to be paid the one third part thereof by my grandsons Bartlet & Amos the sons of my late son Caleb Cook decd. & the other two thirds by my two sons Benja. & Ephraim equally between them out of my personall Estate as it shall be apprizd. or in money as my grandson & sons shall choose likewise a right in my house for herself, & wood to Burn on my land, untill she shall marry—

Item. I give & bequeath unto my daughter Rebeccah Cook one feather Bed & furniture for the same & likewise eighty six pounds eighteen shill. & four pence to be paid her within three years after my decease that is to say twenty eight pounds seventeen shillings & nine pence till paid to be paid her one third part thereof by my grandsons Amos & Bartlett the sons of my son Caleb Cook decd. & the other two thirds by my sons Benja. & Ephm. equally between them out of my personal Estate as it shall be prizd. or in money as my grandsons & sons shall choose also a part of my house & wood on my land to burn untill she shall marry.

Item. I give & bequeath to my daughter Lidia Cook one bed & furniture likewise eighty six pounds thirteen shillings & four pence to be payd. within three years after my decease viz twenty eight pounds seventeen shillgs. & nine pence a year till paid to be paid her the one third part by my grandsons Bartlett & Amos & the other two thirds by my two sons Benja. & Ephraim equally between them out of my personal estate as it shall be prizd. or in money as my grandsons & sons shall choose & likewise apart in my house for herself & fire wood on my land to burn untill she shall marry

Item. I give & bequeath unto my grandsons Bartlett & Amos & to my sons Benja. & Ephraim, the whole of the remainder of my personal estate wheresoever it may be found viz one third part to be equally divided between my two grandsons Amos & Bartlett & the other two thirds to be equally divided between my two sons Benja. & Ephraim. Lastly I do constitute & appoint my son Benja. Cook sole Exr. of this my last will & Testament ratifying & allowing this & no other to be my last will & Testament & do hereby make null & Void all other & former wills & Testament by me made In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand & seal the 13th day of May Anno Dom. 1762.

Signd. seald. & Declared by the sd Caleb Cook to be his

last will & testamt In Presence of us.                                                                               Caleb Cooke                      (seal)

Ephraim Washburn

Francis Adams

Robert Bradford

 

Presented for probate on 5 Sept. 1762 by Benja. Cook, the Executor, and proved by Francis Adams and Robt. Bradford, two of the witnesses.

 

Robert Bradford of Kingston, John Bradford of Plimton, and John Wadsworth of Duxborough appraised the estate of Caleb Cook, late of Kingston, on 14 Oct. 1762, which totaled about £1377.6, including his homestead farm valued at £600. Benja. Cooke, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 1 Nov. 1762.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 16, pp. 374-375, 389-393, from FHL microfilm #0551543.

 

 

Will of Eunice Cook of Kingston, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1839) *

        In the name of God Amen. I Eunice Cook of Kingston in the County of Plymouth and Commonwealth of Massachusetts Singlewoman Considering the uncertainty of this mortal life and and being of sound mind and memory, do make and ordain this my last Will and Testament in manner and form as follows

1st   I give unto my beloved brother Elkanah Cook all my Estate both Real and Personal after my decease to him the said Elkanah his heirs and assigns forever— Provided the decease of my brother Elkanah should be prior to my own, I hereby confirm the division of my estate to the heirs at Law of the said Elkanah Cook after my decease to them their heirs and assigns forever –

          In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this first day of January in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and thirty nine

                                                                                                                                                Eunice Cook                      (seal)

        Signed sealed and declared by the said Eunice Cook to be her last will and testament in the presence of us who at the request and in her presence hereunto set our names as witnesses to the same

                                Peleg Bradford

                                Ransom Mitchell

                                James T. Simmons

 

Presented for probate on the third Monday of Feb. 1851 by Benjamin Cook, who is interested therein, and proved by Peleg Bradford, Ransom Mitchell, and James T. Simmons, the witnesses.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Eunice Cook, late of Kingston, was appraised by Alden S. Bradford, Ezra Fuller, and Oliver Everson on 11 Feb. 1851, her Real Estate totaled $494, and her Personal Estate totaled $243.52. Benjamin Cook, the Administrator with Will annexed, gave his oath to the inventory on the third Monday of Feb. 1851.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 93, p. 62-63, from FHL microfilm #0555641.

 

 

Will of Joanna Cook of Kingston, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1816) *

                In the Name of God, Amen: I Joanna Cook of Kingston, widow of Zenas Cook late of Plympton, deceased, considering the uncertainty of this mortal life, and being of sound and perfect mind and memory, Blessed be Almighty God for the same, do make and publish this my last Will and Testament in manner and form following, that is to say.

1st        I give and bequeath unto my Sisters Hannah Faunce, Eleanor Faunce and Sarah Faunce, the improvement of all my Real Estate during their natural lives, with power to sell the whole or any part thereof, if necessary for their comfortable support; and in case of the death of either of them before or after my decease, the survivors or survivor of said sisters to have the improvement and right of sale as aforesaid.

2d        I give and bequeath to my Sister Lydia Cook, wife of Josiah Cook, and the heirs of my sister Molly Cook deceased, all my wood land that was set off to me in the division of the estate of my brother John Faunce Esq. deceased, which lies in that tract of land set off to my said brother in the division between him and the heirs of John Sever, provided said land is not disposed of by my sisters aforesaid during their lives.

3d        I give and bequeath all my other Real Estate not otherwise disposed of, which I may have at the time of my decease, or the decease of my sisters Hannah Faunce, Eleanor Faunce and Sarah Faunce to be equally divided between my brothers Eliezer Faunce and Elijah Faunce, after the decease of all my said Sisters aforesaid;

4th       I give and bequeath to my said Sisters, Hannah Faunce, Eleanor Faunce and Sarah Faunce all my personal estate of what kind or nature soever, if they are living at the time of my decease, and in case of the death of either of them before myself, the survivors or survivor to have it – And in case of the death of all of them before me, I give it to my brothers Eliezer and Elijah, and my Sister Lydia Cook, wife of Josiah Cook, and the heirs of my sister Molly Cook deceased.

5th       I hereby appoint my brother Eliezer Faunce my Executor to this my last Will and Testament.

                                                                                                In Witness Where of, I have hereunto set my hand and seal the twenty fourth day of December AD  one thousand eight hundred and sixteen.

                                                                                                                                                Joanna Cook                     (seal)

                Signed, sealed and declared by the above named Joanna Cook to be her last Will and Testament in presence of us –

                Isaac Washburn

                Susanna Washburn

                John Gray

 

Presented for probate on the third Monday of May 1837 by Sarah Faunce, one of the devisees therein named, and proved by John Gray, the only surviving witness.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 79, p. 145-146, from FHL microfilm #0555265.

 

 

Will of Sarah Cook of Kingston, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1828) *

                In the name of God, Amen. That I Sarah Cook of Kingston in the County of Plymouth, Singlewoman, do on this fourteenth day of January in the year of our Lord One thousand eight hundred and twenty-eight, make and publish this my last Will and Testament in manner following, viz.

In the first place I give and bequeath unto my beloved brother, Elkanah Cook, my share of Fresh Meadow set off to me in the Jones River Meadow, so called, in the division of my hond. father’s Estate,– and also a piece of wood-land lying in the Pine plain, so called, together with a piece of Fresh meadow adjoining the same, all of which was set off to me in the division of my hond. father’s Estate called the Everson land.                                         Also in the second place I give and bequeath unto my beloved sister, Patience Cook, all the rest and residue of my Estate, both Real and Personal, wherever & whenever the same may be found, with the incumbrance of her paying my last expenses.                                Lastly, I do appoint my beloved brother Elkanah Cook, Executor of this my last Will and Testament.   In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal the day and year above written.

Signed, sealed, & published by the

sd. Sarah Cook, declaring this to                                                                                       Sarah Cook                        (seal)

be her last Will & Testament in

presence of us who were called to witness the same.

                Seth Cushing

                Pelham Holmes

                James E. Cushing

 

Probated on 14 Apr. 1828, and proved by Seth Cushing and Pelham Holmes, two of the witnesses. Letters Testamentary were granted to Elkanah Cook, of Kingston, on 14 Apr. 1828.

James Cushing, Seth Cushing, and Martin Cook, all of Kingston, were appointed to appraise the estate of Sarah Cook, late of Kingston, singlewoman, on 18 Feb. 1828. The Inventory, dated 3 Jan. 1828, was valued at $483.00, including her real estate valued at $359. Elkanah Cook, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 14 Apr. 1828.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 66, p. 47-49, from FHL microfilm #0555259.

 

 

Will of Caleb Cooke of Plymouth, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1721) *

In the Name of God amen; The tenth day of February anno Dom 1721 I Caleb Cook Senr. of Plymouth In ye County of Plymouth in New: England yeoman—being Sick & weak in Body but of perfect mind & memory (Thanks be given unto God) Therefore Calling to mind ye mortality of my body & knowing that it is appointed unto all men once to dye: do make & ordain this my last will & Testament: That is to Say Principally and first of all; I give & Recommend my Soul into ye Hands of God that gave it; & my Body I commend to ye Earth to be buried in decent Christian Burial at ye Discretion of my Executrix nothing doubting but that at ye general Resurrection I Shall Receive ye same again by ye mighty Power of God. and as touching Such worldly Estate wherewith it hath Pleased God to Bless me in this Life: I Give Demise & Dispose of ye same in ye following manner & forme: Imprimis I Give & Bequeath to Jean my dearly beloved wife my best Bed & all ye furniture belonging thereunto, also ye Lower Part of ye westerly End of my dwelling House, also Twenty Pounds in good Bills of Publick Credit in this Province or Currant money of New: England to be Paid in manner yearly & Every year during Her natural Life: out of ye Estate of my Son John hereafter by this Instrument given unto Him ye Sum of five Pounds, & also out of ye Estate hereafter given unto my other three sons to wit: Caleb, James, & Joseph, five Pounds Each upon default of ye Payment of all or any Part to Enter upon ye Estate of that Party that is faulty. Item, I Give & Bequeath to my Loving Son John His Heirs & assignes forever (under ye Consideration above mentioned, as also it Shall be hereafter ordered) all that Part of my Homestead that Lyeth below the high way, bounded beginning at a heap of Stones about three Rod & a half to the Southward of a Round Cobling Rock that lyeth in ye highway, from thence Extending North Easterly to a Large white oak Tree & from thence to a Stump that ye fence now lyes upon at ye Head of ye marsh, from thence Northerly as ye fence now Stands till it Comes to a large Rock That is near ye Stepping Rock & from Sd Rock westerly to Sd Stepping Rock in a Creek and then bounded by Said Creek till it Comes to Grays. meadow, and then bounded by a Parcell of meadow that Sd John Cooke lately bought of mr. Thomas & then bounded by Sd meadow till it Comes to James Howlands. Land, and then by Sd James Howlands. & Thomas Howlands. Land till it comes to ye fishing Rock by ye water side and then Ranging westerly by Sd Tinkhams Land to ye High way & then by Sd High way Till it comes to ye Bounds first mentioned. Item I Give & Bequeath unto my Loving Son Caleb, His Heirs & assignes forEver (under Consideration aforementioned as also what Shall be hereafter ordered) all that Part of ye Purchase made from Samuel Fuller that lyeth to ye Northward of Smelt brook till it Comes to ye Foot of a Hill about Twenty Rod westward of ye High way & then by ye way up into ye woods thrô my Land till it Comes to ye Head of Sd Purchase being all to ye Northward of Sd Brook & way Reserving half an acre of Sd Land on ye Notherly Corner of ye westerly Side of ye High way. Item, I Give & Bequeath unto my Loving Sons James & Joseph to their Heirs & assignes forEver (under Consideration aforementioned as also what Shall be hereafter ordered) all ye Housing Lands & meadow & Swampy Land that I have in ye Township of Plymouth or Elsewhere Excepting a Purchase I made of John Sturdevant of about an acre & half of Salt meadow & ye Reserve out of my Son Calebs. Part. notwithstanding what is afore written my will is that there be a way allowed thrô my Sd Land down to ye waterside & up into ye woods where it now is. Item, I Give & Bequeath unto my Grand Children The Children of my daughter Jean Harris ye Sum of thirty pounds in bills of Publick Credit, in this Province or Currant money of New: England to be Paid to them at my decease by my Son John Six Pounds yearly Successively untill ye Sd Thirty Pounds be Paid. Item, I Give & Bequeath unto my Daughter Anne Johnson or to ye Heirs of her Body the Sum of Thirty Pounds in Bills of Publick Credit in this Province or Currant money of New: England to be Paid at my decease by my Son Caleb Six Pounds yearly Successively untill ye Sd thirty Pounds be Paid: Item, I Give & Bequeath unto my Daughter Elisabeth Johnson or to ye Heirs of Her Body the Sum of Thirty Pounds in Bills of Publick Credit in this Province or Currant money of new: England to be Paid at my Decease by my Son James Six Pounds yearly Successively untill ye Sd thirty Pounds be Paid. Item, I Give & Bequeath unto my Loving Son Robert Carvour & Mary His wife their Heirs & assignes forEver all that half acre of Land reserved out of ye Bequest made to my Son Caleb: also I Give & Bequeath unto my Daughter Mary Carvour or to ye Heirs of Her Body, The Sum of thirty Pounds in Bills of Publick Credit in this Province, or Currant money of new: England to be Paid at my decease by my son Joseph Six Pounds yearly Successively untill ye Sd Thirty Pounds be Paid; and all ye Remainder of my Estate whatsoever & wheresoever after my Just debts are Paid (Excepting my Cedar Swamp at Colechester which I do hereby give & Bequeath unto my Sons Caleb, James & Joseph to their heirs & assignes for Ever to be Equally divided amongst them) one third Part to be to my Loving wife for Ever and ye other two Thirds to be Equally divided amongst my Children and Grand Children aforesd. Item I do hereby Constitute make & ordain my Loving wife, Jean Cooke my Sole Executrix of this my last will & Testamt. and I do hereby disallow Revoke & disanull all & Every other former Testaments will, Legacys & Bequests & Executors by mee in any ways before named Willed & Bequeathed, Ratifying & Confirming this & no other to be my Last will & Testament; In witness where of I have hereunto Set my hand & Seal ye day & year above written

Signed Sealed Published Pronounced                                                                                             his

and declared to be his last will &                                                                                     Caleb     C C    Cooke        (seal)

Testament before us                                                                                                                            mark

        Sarah Shurtleff

        John Dyer

        Francis Adams

 

March ye 31st 1722 The above named Sarah Shurtleff made oath that She Saw ye abovewritten Caleb Cooke Signe Seal & heard him declare ye above written & ye within written Instrument to be his last will and Testament and that She together with John Dyer & Francis Adams She Set to Her hand as a witness & that also according to ye best of her observation he then was of a Sound & disposing mind & memory.                                               Before me Isaac Winslow Judge of Probate

Aprill ye 4th 1722 The above named John Dyer & Francis Adams made oath that they Saw ye above named Caleb Cooke Signe Seal & heard Him declare ye above & within written Instrument to be His Last Will & Testamt. and that they together with Sarah Shurtleff did at ye Same time Set to their Hands as witnesses and that also according to ye best of their observation he then was of a Sound & disposing mind & memory:

                                                                                                                                Before mee Isaac Winslow Judge of Probate

 

The Moveable Estate of Mr. Caleb Cooke late of Plymouth, dec’d, dated 6 Apr. 1722, together with a piece of Salt marsh & Sedge ground lying in Plymouth on Jones River between the Salt Marsh & Sedge ground of John Cooke and the meadow of Charls Little…totaled £193.7.6, appraised by Jacob Mitchell, Robert Cushman & Joseph Mitchell. Debts due from the estate totaled £61.7.6, and debts due to the estate from James Cooke & William Payne of Boston totaled £2.15.0.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 4, p. 324-326, 328-329, from FHL microfilm #0550510.

 

 

Will & Codicil of Francis Cooke of Kingston, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1732) *

In the Name of God Amen I Francis Cooke of Kingston in the County of Plimouth in New England Yeoman being of a Disposeing Mind & Memory blessed be God for it & Calling to mind that it is appointed for all Once to die Do make & ordain this my last Will and Testament in manner & form following.

In the First place I Give and bequeath my Soul to God that Gave it me and my body to the Earth with a Decent Christian Burial in hope of a Blessed Resurrection: and as to the outward and temporal Estate that it hath pleased God to bless me with I dispose of the same in the following order—

Imprimis I Give and Bequeath unto my loving son Caleb Cook and to his heirs and assigns forever and to the Children of my loving son Robert Cook deceased and their heirs & assigns forever all that my landing place that I bought of Major John Bradford at Jones river in Kingston: and allso I Give unto my son Caleb Cook all my Oxen of four years old and upwards with all my Carts plows Chairs and all my Implements for Carting & plowing allso half my Sheep with my Mare for four years and at the End of sd four year then if there is no Increase to have half ye. mare If there is Increase of the Mare then only half the Increase—

Item, I Give and bequeath unto my loving daughter Elizabeth Cook Seventy pounds to be paid out of my Estate and what She hath in her Chest and hath had for some time past—

Item I Give and bequeath unto my loving Grand Children the Children of my loving son Francis Cook deceased five Shillings I haveing allready Given them their Portion—

And after my Just Debts are paid and my funeral Charge Discharged and the Aforesd. Legacies paid My mind is that ye. remainder of all my Estate Real & personal whatsoever or wheresoever it is or may be found Shall be Equally divided between my three daughters or Such as Legally represent those that are Dead that is to say my Loving Daughter Susanna Stertevant the Children of my loving daughter Sarah Cole and my loveing Daughter Elizabeth Cook to have Equal as aforesaid of the remainder of my Estate. And lastly I Do Nominate and appoint my Loving son Caleb Cook the Sole Executor Of this my last will & Testament Hereby Declaring all other Will or Wills by me hereto fore Made void & Confirming this and no other to be my last will and Testament as witness my hand and Seal this 28th day of October 1732.

Signed Sealed Declared and

Pronounced by the Abovesd. Francis                                                                               Francis Cook                    (seal)

Cook to be his Last will and

Testament Before us Witnesses

Elisha Washburne

Ephraim Washburne

Francis Adams

 

Probated on 18 Sept. 1746, proved by Francis Adams and Ephraim Washburne.

 

Notwithstanding any thing in the Aforesaid Will to the Contrary My Mind is that my Son Caleb Cook have only one pair of Oxen If I leave any with my Cash & Wheels & tackling therto belonging And I do hereby Give & bequeath unto my daughter Beforementioned my part in a Furnice for makeing of Iron begun in Kingston to be Divided to them as is in this will aforesd. is Declared In Witness—hereof I have hereunto Set my hand and Seal this fifteenth day of May anno Dom. One thousand Seven hundred & thirty Six 1736.

Signed Sealed published & Pronounced

By the Aforesd. Francis Cook to be                                                                                  Francis Cook                    (seal)

A Codicil to the Aforesd. Will

Ichabod Washburne

Bethiah Washburne

Francis Adams

 

Probated on 18 Sept. 1746, proved by Francis Adams & Bethia Washburne

 

An Inventory of the Estate of Mr. Francis Cooke of Kingston in the County of Plimouth Deceased taken by us the Subscribers October the Sixth A.D. 1746—        old tenour—

Imprimis To One Bleue Straite Bodyed Coat & Jackett                                                              3.10.0

To a Blew Great Coat 10/  a Straite Bodyed Coat & Jacket                                       1. 5. 0

To a Mortueing Ax 2 Augurs & 1 Addz[?]                                                                     1. 1. 0

To 1 Siuth 4/  One Crad Caw[?] 20/  To Sheep Shears 5/                                           1.15.0

To 1 Sixteenth part of a Furnice in Kingston                                                              75. 0. 0

                                                                                Gershom Bradford

                                                                                Francis Adams

                                                                                William Ripley

Oath of Caleb Cook, admr. 18 Dec. 1746.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 10, p. 328-331, from FHL microfilm #0551535.

 

 

Will of Jacob Cooke of Kingston, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1728) *

The Last will and Testament of Jacob Cooke of Kingston In The County of Plimouth In New England yeoman, I The Said Jacob Cooke being aged and Infirm In Body But Through Divine Favour of a Sound and Disposing mind and memory and Desireous To Set my House in order Before I go Hence do make and ordain this my last will and Testament, and First I Commit my Soul To God That Gave it and my Body to the Earth To Be Decently Buried according to the Discretion of my Executor hereafter Named Hoping for a Glorious Resurrection to life Through the merritts of Jesus Christ my Redeemer and as To what Estate it Hath pleased God to Bless me with In this Life I Dispose of the Same as Followeth viz. Imprimis having Given to my Three Sons William Jacob and Josiah By Deed of Gift what I Designed Them as Their full parts and Portions of my Estate, I give and Bequeath unto my Son John over and above what I Have already given him By Deed of gift Which I Do Hereby Confirm) a Bed and Beding. Item I give and Bequeath unto my Daughter Damaris one of my Best Beds with all The Furniture Belonging To it allso Two Cows or the value of them In money allso The Liberty To use and Improve one Room In my Dwelling House So long as She Shall Remain unmarried.—

Item I give and Bequeath unto my Four Daughters Lydia Rebeckah margaret and Damaris Their Heirs and assigns forever To Be Equally Divided Between Them my lott of Land which I Bought of Joseph King Lying Near agawam In the Township of Plimouth Together with all the Remainder of my moveable Estate after my Just Debts and Funerall Charges are first paid and Discharged

Lastly I Do Hereby Constitute and appoint my Son John Cooke Sole Executor of This my last will and Testament Hereby Revoking and making void all other and Former will By me made Ratifying and Confirming This and no other as my Last will and Testament In witness whereof I have Hereunto Set my Hand and Seale This Sixteenth Day of october Anno Domini 1728…—

Signed Sealed and Declared By the said Jacob Cooke

as his last will & Testament—                                                                                         Jacob Cooke      (seal)

In presence of us—

        Thomas Croade

        Jno Washburne

        Rachell Croade

 

Probated on 21 May 1747, proved by Thomas Croade Esq. and John Washburne. Administration of the estate of Jacob Cook of Kingston, yeoman, was granted to Benjamin Samson of Kingston in the County of Plimouth, Gent. John Cooke of sd Kingston yeoman Execr of sd Will Dyed before the sd Jacob Cooke the Testator, administration is therefore hereby Committed unto the sd Benjamin Samson…on 1 June 1747.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Mr. Jacob Cooke, late of Kingston, was appraised on 13 June 1747 by Saml. Foster, Joseph Mitchell and Robert Bradford, and totaled £345.3.0, including a lot of land near Agawam valued at £34. Benja. Samson, the executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 14 July 1737.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 10, pp. 419-421, 434-435, from FHL microfilm #0551535.

 

 

Will of Jane Cooke of Kingston, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1736) *

To all Christian People to whom these Presents shall come Greeting. Know Ye that I Jane Cooke of Kingston in ye County of Plymouth in New-England Widow Relict of Caleb Cooke of Kingston aforesd deceasd being Sick & weak of Body and Judging the time of my Departure is at hand yet being by ye Mercy of God in the Exercise of my Reason & perfect in my Understanding, Do Make this my last Will & Testament as follows—Viz—

I Bequeath my Soul to God that gave it & my Body to the Earth to be buried with Christian burial: And I do Constitute & appoint My loving Son in Law Robert Carver of Kingston abovesd Mariner to be my only & sole Executor to this my last Will and Testament as full and absolute to all Intents & Purposes as the Case does or may require and as the Law directs Not Willing that any thing should be wanting for want of being more more fully Expresst. And after my funeral Charges & my other just Debts are payed I do Will & appoint my Estate to be Disposed of as follows —

Item I do Give unto my Eldest Son John Cooke of Kingston abovesaid Husbandman five Shillings of my Estate — Item I do Give unto the Heirs of my Son Caleb Cooke junr of Kingston aforesd Deceasd five Shillings of my Estate — Item I do Give unto my Son James Cooke of Kingston aforesd Husbandman five Shillings of my Estate—

Itm I do Give unto my Son Joseph Cooke of Kingston aforesd Husbandman five Shillings of my Estate. — Itm I do Give unto my Daughter Anne Johnson the Wife of James Johnson late of Middletown in ye Colony of Connecticut in New England Husbandman five Pounds of my Estate; Item I do Give unto the Heirs of my Daughter Jane Harris of Bridgewater deceasd. five Pounds of my Estate — And the Remainder of my Estate I do Give unto my other two Daughters viz: Mary Carver the Wife of Robert Carver of Kingston aforesd & Betty Johnson the Wife of Robert Johnson of North Yarmouth  in the County of York in New England Taylor to be equally divided between them: And it is to be understood that this Will has no Regard to what I have before Given to my Grand Child Jane Johnson als Morton; being a bed with ye Appurtenances thereof which I do not now reckon to be my Estate. And I the sd Jane Cooke in a Sound Mind & upon mature Consideration do Acknowledge this to be my last Will & Testament Renouncing all other Instruments of this Nature, In Witness whereof I have hereunto Set my hand & Seal this Eight Day of April in the Year of Our Lord one thousand Seven hundred & thirty six  — —  Jane * Cooke her Mark     (seal)

Signed Sealed & Delivered In the Presence of us Abiah Wadsworth  Ebenezr Fuller

          her

Mary  J  Wadsworth

         mark –

 

Proved on 24 April 1736 by Abiah Wadsworth, Ebenezer Fuller, and Mary Wadsworth, the witnesses. No inventory was recorded for her estate.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 7, p. 194-195, from FHL microfilm #05505713.

 

 

Will of John Cooke of Dartmouth, County of Bristol, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1694) *

                The Last will and Testament of John Cook of the town of Dartmouth in the County of Bristoll: I being weake of Body but of sound and Perfect memory, have disposed of my Estate which God hath been pleased to bestow: Upon me in manner following that is to say In the first place I give to my Son in-law Arthur Hathaway & his wife Sarah my Daughter all my land in the point at or Near the Burying place in Dartmouth the which I bought of John Russell to them their heires and Assignes for Ever: And also I give Unto my Son in-law Stephen West and his wife Mercey my Daughter one full Third part of a whole Share of lands in the Township of Dartmouth with all my houseing and Orchards thereunto belonging: with all the priviledges & appurces belonging to the same to them their heires & Assignes for Ever—They to possess the same after the Decease of my wife Sarah—  Allso I give unto Jonathan Delano, one Third part of a share of meadow caled the Freemens meadow Lyeing within the Town-Ship of Rochester to him his heires & Assignes for Ever: Allso I give to my Grandson Thomas Taber my little Island Caled & Known by the Name of Ram. Island Lying in Cushnat River in Dartmouth with one third part of my Share of Meadow Called the Freemens Meadow Lyeing in the Township of Rochester, to him his heires & assignes for Ever—and I give to my said Grand son my Gun & sword Allso I give to my Grand Daughter Hester Perry One feather Bed & Bolster, All the Rest & Residue of Estate Goods & Chattles of what Sort or Kind so Ever I Give & bequeath unto my Loveing wife Sarah to Use & Dispose of the same as she shall see good And I make my said wife Sole Executrix of this my Last will & Testament: In witness whereof I the said John Cook have hereunto sett my hand & Seale this Ninth Day of November 1694 in the presence of

Aaron Savory 0 his mark                                                                                                   John Cooke                                        (seal)

                Thomas Taber                                                                                      Memorandum that on the 16th of Aprill 1696

                                                                                                                                Then appeared Aaron Savory & Thomas Taber

                                                                                                                                both of Dartmouth, Before John Saffin Esqr.

                                                                                                                                Judge of Probate of wills &ta and made Oath

                                                                                                                                that they were present & did see John Cooke

                                                                                                                                late of Dartmouth Decd. Signe seale & publish

                                                                                                                                this Instrument to be his last will & testiment

                                                                                                                                and yt he was of a Disposeing mind when he so did

                                                                                                                                to the best of their apprehensions

                                                                                                                John Cary Registr.                                                Jno Saffin

 

Sarah Cooke of Dartmouth posted bond as Executrix of the last will & Testament of John Cook of Dartmouth on 15 July 1696 before John Saffin Esqr., Judge of Probate, with Thomas Taber and Jonathan Delano, both of Dartmouth, yeomen, as sureties.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Bristol County Probate File “John Cook, Dartmouth, 1694,” from FHL microfilm #0572852.

 

 

Will of John Cooke of Kingston, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1741) *

In the Name of God Amen I John Cook Senr. of Kingston in the County of Plymouth in New England yeoman being of a Disposeing Mind and Memory blessed be God (for ye same) and Calling to mind my Mortallity Knowing that it is appointed for all men Once to die do make and ordain this my last Will and Testament in manner and form following, I give and bequeath my Soul to god that gave it me & my body to the Earth with a Christian Decent burial in hopes of a blessed Resurrection, & as to ye Temporall Estate that it hath pleased god to bless me with I dispose of the same in ye following order. —

Imprimis.— I Give and Bequeath unto my Dear & Loveing wife Hannah Cook the use and improvement of the Great Room in my dwelling house & the Chamber over it, and ye use of all my utensills or household goods, Dureing Life or widdowhood and in Case She should Marry Again then my Mind is that She Should have her bed and all she brought to me, and a good Cow in the Stead of that She brought with her Moreover to have ye use of One of my Cows, that which She Shall choose and if my wife Shall Decease my Widdow, then my Mind it yt. her Children Shall have all ye Estate that she brought & a good Cow in ye Room of that She brot Moreover my Mind is that my widdow have a Good Cow. kept and provided for her use Winter and Summer upon the Farme as may be Convent. for her & allso paid her yearly & every year thirty pounds money, or Such things as She Shall desire at money price dureing Life of Widdowhood One large brass Kittl-Excepted out of the Household goods above Express’d, — —

Item I Give and bequeath unto my three sons and theire Heirs and assigns forever to be equally divided amongst them, My Son Silas to have his Choice, all my lands Meadow wood lands Swamp Mills whatsoever and Wheresoever it is or may be found, Except what I Shall hereafter, Give unto my Daughter Mercy Hodges, with all my interest in Shiping to be Divided as aforesd. To my Son Silas Cook One third, To my Son Paul Cook One third, and to my Son Robert Cook One third.

Item. I Give and bequeath unto my Loveing Daughter Mercy Hodges, and to her Heirs & Assigns forever all that my Parcel of Land and meadow I bought of James Johnson bounded Southwesterly, by the Countrey Roade Northwesterly by land of Ebenezer Cobb, Northeasterly by ye Creek & Southeasterly by land of Robert Carver and allso a Large brass–Kittle, yet notwithstanding any thing above written My Mind is yt. my Son Silas Cook if he take what or any part of what is above Granted him, that it is upon Condition that he do One third part towards provideing and keeping my Widow a Cow for her use as is above Expresd. and allso pay the Ten pounds yearly for her Support and the Estate Stands Chargeable for the performance thereof; And allso my Son Paul Cook is equally bound to ye Same duty, and what is Given to my Son Robert Cook Stands bound to ye Performance thereof that so my Widdow may have and Enjoy honestly what is herein Given her. — And as to my Personall Estate (Excepting my household goods) That after my Just debts are paid and my funerall Charges Dischargd. The Remainder to be Equally divided between my three Sons, or if it Shoul’d fall Short my mind is that they be equally paid by my three Sons. —

And Lastly I do Nominate Ordain and appoint my Loveing Son Silas Cooke my Sole Executor of this my last Will and Testament hereby Revokeing and makeing Null & Void all and all other Will or Wills Codicils by me heretofore made and Confirming this this and no other for my last Will & Testament.  In Witness Whereof I the sd. John Cooke have hereunto Set my hand & Seal this Sixth day of May, Anno Domini 1741. —  1741

Signd Seald Pronouncd. &

Declard by the abovesd. Jno Cooke

To be his last Will in Presence

of

Robert Carver                                                                                                                      John Cooke                        (seal)

Joseph Cooke

Francis, Adams

 

Presented for probate on 6 July 1741 by Silas Cooke, the Executor, and proved by Robert Carver, Joseph Cook & Francis Adams, the witnesses.

 

Samuell Foster, Wrestling Brewster and Joseph Mitchell, all of Kingston, Gent., were appointed to appraise the Estate of John Cook, late of Kingston, yeoman, on 6 July 1741. The Inventory was dated 16 Sept. 1741, but not totaled, his Homestead, upland, & Meadow down in Rock Nook were valued at £2100, 5 sixteenths of a Scooner valued at £140, land and meadow by Silas Cooks house on the Northerly side of Smelt Brooke was valued at £120, and some other parcels of land. Silas Cooke, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 18 Sept. 1741.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 8, pp. 402-403, 412-413, from FHL microfilm #0551531.

 

 

Will & Codicil of Robert Cooke of Kingston, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1731) *

In the Name of God Amen. I Robert Cooke, of Kingston, in the County of Plymouth in New-England Yeoman, being weak & low in Body but of a Disposing Mind and Memory Blessed be God & calling to Mind my own Mortality, Knowing it is appointed for all once to die, Do Make this my last Will & Testament in the following Manner I Give & Bequeath my Soul to God that gave it Me, & My Body to the Earth with a decent Christian Burial in hopes of a blessed Resurrection, And as to ye Outward Estate it hath pleased God to favour Me with I Dispose of ye Same in ye following Order Imprims. I Give & Bequeath unto my Dear & loving wife Lidia Cooke One Bed & Furniture that that She shall Choose & what that wants of Sixty Pounds, to be made up out of my personal Estate, Such as she shall Choose and also her Thirds in my real Estate during Life—

Itm I Give & Bequeath unto my Eldest Son Charles Cooke twenty Pounds paid out of my personal Estate in the first Place and then my Whole Estate that Shall remain when sd twenty Pound is paid to my Eldest Son and all my just Debts & funeral Charge Discharged shall be equally Divided between my Children (to wit) My loving Son Charles Cooke Nathaniel Cooke Robert Cooke Sarah Cooke Francis Cooke, And my loving Son Simeon Cooke My Mind is yt he have as much of my Estate as to Make him equal with my Other Children with what he may have of the Estate that may hereafter comes to my dear & loving Wife Lydia Cooke. And I do hereby Constitute Ordain & appoint my Loving Brother Caleb Cooke my Sole Executr of this my last Will & Testament Hereby Revoking Disanulling & making void all other & former Will or Wills Codicil or Codicils by Me heretofore made and confirming this and no other to be my last Will and Testament—In Witness hereof I ye sd Robert Cooke have hereunto Set my hand & Seal this Seventeenth Day of May Annoq. Domi 1731 —

Signed Sealed Declared & Pronounced by the

abovesd Robert Cooke to be his last Will                                                                         Robert Cooke    (seal)

& Testament before us Witnesses

James Cob  —  Martha Washburn

Francis Adams

 

February ye 7:1731 The here named James Cob & Francis Adams Made oath that they Saw the Above named Robert Cooke Sign Seal & heard him Declare ye Above written to be his last Will & Testament And that they at the Same time in ye Presence of ye sd Testator Together with Martha Washburn did Set to their hands as Witnesses and according to the best of their Observation he then was of a Sound & Disposing Mind & Memory—Before Isaac Winslow Judge of Probate

 

Yet Notwithstanding any thing in the aWill aforesd the sd Robt. Cookes Mind & Will is that his dear & Loving Wife Lydia Cooke shall have Seventy Pound out of his Estate in Manner as aforesd & her thirds in the Improvemt. of his Estate during her Widowhood—And that his loving Son Simeon Cooke have equal Share with his Brothrs & Sisters Excepting the twenty Pounds aforesd that is in sd Will Given to Charles Cooke in sd Will above ye Rest of his Brothrs & Sisters

Dated January 6. Annoq. Domini — 1731/2 —

Signed Sealed Published & Declared & Pronounced

to be an Addition or Codicil to sd Will by sd                                                                   Robert Cooke    (seal)

Robert Cooke before us Witnesses —

Jabez Cushman  Ephraim Washburn  Francis Adams

 

February the 7.1731. The Above named Ephraim Washburn & Francis Adams made Oath that they Saw the Above named Robert Cooke Sign Seal & heard him Declare the Abovewritten to be an Addition or Codicil to his within written Will and that they at the Same time together with Jabez Cushman in ye Presence of ye Testator Set to their hands as Witnesses and that according to the best of their Observation he then was of a Sound & Disposing Mind & Memory—Before Isaac Winslow Judge of Probate

Letters of Administration were granted on 14 July 1732 to Caleb Cooke, Brother to the sd Deceased and Sole Executor.

 

Capt. Caleb Loring of Plimton, Mr. Francis Adams & Mr. Gershom Bradford of Kingston were appointed to appraise the estate of Robert Cooke, late of Kingston, on 7 Feb. 1731[/2]. The inventory was dated 25 Mar. 1732, not totaled, but included his dwelling house, barn & adjoining land valued at £750, and was sworn to by Caleb Cooke, the Executor, on 8 July 1732.

 

Gershom Bradford, Robert Bradford, Ephraim Washburn, James Hovey, and James Everson, were appointed to divide the Real Estate of Robert Cook Senr., late of Kingston, among his children on 29 Oct. 1744. The estate was divided on 20 Dec. 1744 among Charles Cook, the eldest son, Simeon Cook, Francis Cook, Robert Cook, Sarah Cook, and Nathll. Cook, and approved on 21 Dec. 1744.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 6, p. 186-189, from FHL microfilm #0550512, and Vol. 9, p. 385-387, from FHL microfilm #0551533.

 

 

Will of Caleb Coombs of Rochester, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1809) *

        In the name of God amen I Caleb Coombs of Rochester in the County of Plymouth & Commonwealth of Massachusetts, being of a sound & disposing Mind & Memory for which I return thanks to the all wise Giver of every Favour; calling to Mind the Mortality of Man, I do now make & ordain this my last Will and Testament & first & above all, I do give & bequeath my immortal Soul to God who gave it & my Body to the Earth to be buried in a decent christian Manner, at the discretion of my Executor herein after named, and as touching that portion of earthly Estate wherewith it has pleased the Great Arbiter of human Events to bless me with, I do dispose of it in the following Manner & Form, viz

                Imprimis I give & bequeath to my beloved Wife Hannah Coombs one third part of all my Estate both Real & personal as long as she remains my Widow –

                Item I give & bequeath to my Son Caleb Coombs all my Real Estate with all the privileges & appurtenances to them belonging which is hereafter named to wit The Homestead Farm & four Acres of fresh Meadow I bought of Elijah Briggs & a piece of swamp at the Head of the Neck (so called) bought of the Wo. Mercy Rider another piece of swamp near that bought of John Bishop also all the debts of every kind due to me, all my wearing apparel, all my live Stock, all my farming Utensils, he paying all my just debts funeral Charges, the Charges of settling the Estate & do whatever is in this Will pointed out for him to do —

                Item I give & bequeath to my three Daughters, Susanna, Sarah & Phebe all my Household Furniture to be equally divided between them —

                Item I give & bequeath to my three Daughters above named thirty Dollars apiece to be paid by my Son Caleb when he shall arrive to the Age of twenty one Years to be paid in Neat Stock or Money as shall best suit my Son Caleb ~

                Item and I do by these presents constitute & appoint Thomas Faunce of Dartmouth in the County of Bristol & Commonwealth aforesaid to be the sole Executor of this my last will and Testament. In Testimony of all which I do here unto set my hand & Seal the ninth day of February in the Year of our Lord one Thousand eight hundred & nine —

signed sealed pronounced & declared by the said Caleb Coombs

as his last Will & Testament in presence of                                                                   Caleb Coombs                                  (seal)

                Caleb Briggs

                Delia Briggs

                Elijah Briggs

 

Presented for probate on 12 April 1813 by Thomas Faunce, the Executor therein named, and proved by Caleb Briggs and Elijah Briggs, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Thomas Faunce, the before named Executor.

 

Joshua Peirce and Lot Thacher, both of Rochester, Yeomen, and Benjamin Coombs of Middleborough, Trader, were appointed to appraise the Estate of Caleb Coombs, late of Rochester, yeoman, on 12 Apr. 1813. The Inventory of the Estate of Caleb Coombs, late of Rochester, dated 1 June 1813, totaled $3547.46, including his real estate valued at $2395. Thomas Faunce, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 1 Sept. 1813.

 

The Accounting of Thomas Faunce, Executor on the Estate of Caleb Coombs yeoman, late of Rochester, dated 10 July 1816, including payments to the widow for her thirds of the personal estate of $390.82, retained for my wife Sally her Legacy of $78.08, paid Sukey Hathaway for her share $78.08, paid Phebe Muxham for her share $78.08, and delivered to Caleb Coombs the residuary Legatee $308.36.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 44, p. 525-526, from FHL microfilm #0550903, Vol. 45, p. 76-77, and Vol. 48, p. 126-127.

 

 

Will of Experience Cooper of Kingston, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1813) *

In the Name of God amen. I Experience Cooper of Kingston in the County of Plymouth Widow, being weak & infirm in Body, but of sound Mind & Memory to make & publish this my last Will & Testament in manner following, namely —

        My Will is that my Body be buried in a decent & Christian Manner, & that after my funeral Charges & just debts are paid, my Executor hereafter named cause to be procured & erected at my Grave Monumental Gravestones equal in size & quality to those which are erected at the Grave of my Husband Thomas Cooper deceased.–

Then as to my worldly Interest—

        I give to my four Sisters, Lydia Clark, Sarah Lanman, Elizabeth Bartlett and Mary Lanman all my wearing Apparel to be equally divided between them –

        I give to my two Nieces Rebecca Bartlett & Judith Gray to be equally divided between them, all my Beds & Bedding & Bed Linen & all my Household Furniture, except my time piece, & mourning piece; Also I give to the said Rebecca Bartlett & Judith Gray one hundred Dollars each –

        To my Niece Sarah Brewster I give my time piece –

        To my Niece Nancy Brewster I give my Mourning piece –

        I give to my Niece Nancy Louden two hundred Dollars. –

        To Joshua Holmes Louden Son of my said Niece Nancy Louden, I give all the Estate that I am or may be Heir to from the Estate of my Brother Joshua Holmes deceased both real & personal, to have & to hold to him the said Joshua Holmes Louden his Heirs & Assigns forever, not including any demand which I have against said Estate –

        To my Brother George Holmes, I give one hundred & fifty Dollars a year for the Term of four Years from the time of my decease, if he shall live so long, if not to be discontinued at his decease –

        To my Niece Susanna or Susan Bartlett I give two hundred Dollars –

        To my half Sister Rebecca Austin I give one hundred Dollars –

        To my Niece Experience Brewster I give one thousand Dollars –

        To my two Brothers Richard Holmes & Barnabas Holmes I give all my other Estate both Real & personal & wherever to be found to be equally divided between them to have & to hold the same to the said Richard Holmes & Barnabas Holmes their Heirs & Assigns forever –

        Lastly I do constitute & ordain my said Brother Barnabas Holmes to be sole Executor to this my last Will & Testament.—

        In Testimony whereof I do hereunto set my hand & Seal this thirtieth day of June in the Year of our Lord one Thousand eight hundred & thirteen –

signed, sealed, published, pronounced, & declared

by the said Experience Cooper as & for her

last Will & Testament in presence of us who at

her request & in her presence hereunto set

our Names as Witnesses —                                                                                               Experience Cooper                         (seal)

        Martin Parris

        Philip Washburn

        Pelham Brewster

 

Presented for probate on 30 Dec. 1813 by Barnabas Holmes, the Executor therein named, and proved by Martin Parris Esqr., Philip Washburn, and Pelham Brewster, the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Barnabas Holmes, the before named Executor.

 

John Gray, Gentleman, Pelham Brewster, Yeoman, and Philip Washburn, Mariner, all of Kingston, were appointed to appraise the Estate of Experience Cooper, late of Kingston, widow, on 30 Dec. 1813. The Inventory of the Estate of Experience Cooper, late of Kingston, was dated 20 Jan. 1814, her personal estate totaled $1914.42, and her real estate totaled $4352.00, including 33 acres purchased of Nathaniel Cooper, and land purchased of Hezekiah Ripley. Barnabas Holmes, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 20 Jan. 1814.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 45, pp. 204-205, 226-227, from FHL microfilm #0550903.

 

 

Will of John Cooper of Plymouth, Colony of New Plymouth (1676) *

I John Cooper haveing Reason to expect my great Change now Doe make this my Last Will & Testament wherein I freely Resigne my Spiritt to god that gave it & my body to ye earth by desent buriall when ye Lord shall put an end to my dayes here in Comfortable hope of a future happy estate in glory for ye meritt sake alone of my dear blessed redeemer. & as for what estate ye Lord hath lent me, my will is first that all my Debts Justly or in Conscience Due to any person shall be honestly paid & then what is Left shall be wholely at ye Dispose of my Loveing wife Priscilla for her Comfortable Support dureing her life & what of it shall be at her Death left I thus Dispose of it to be devided into three parts The Church of Barnstable shall have one third part thereof, & ye Surviving Children of my sister Alic Bradford another third part, & ye Surviving Children of my sister Lydia Morton ye other third part thereof, Also I doe request and appoint my loveing friends William Crocker Barnabas Lathrop & Thomas Huckins for to be executors of this my Last will & Testament as Witness my hand & my seal this twenty & eight Day of December 1676.

Signed and sealed in ye presence                                                                                      John Cooper & a (seal)

of John Phinney junir,

Job Crocker

 

Job Crocker & John Phinney allowed & took their oath that they Did see John Cooper Signe & Seal & Declare this Instrument above written to be his Last Will & Testament this 25th of February 1683.

                Before me Thomas Hinckley Govenor

                John Thacher asist:

                Barnabas Lathrop Asist

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth Colony Records, Wills Vol. 4, Part 2, p. 59.

 

 

Will and Codicil of Thomas Cooper of Kingston, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1791) *

        In the Name of God amen the twenty seventh day of April in the Year of our Lord one Thousand seven hundred & Ninety one 1791 I Thomas Cooper of Kingston in the County of Plymouth Yeoman, calling to Mind the Mortality of my Body & knowing that it is appointed for all Men once to die, do make & ordain this my last Will & Testament, & first I commend my Soul to God who gave it, & my Body to the Earth to be buried according to the discretion of my Executrix hereafter named, not doubting but at the General Resurrection I shall receive the same by the mighty Power of God, & as to such outward Estate as God has bestowed on me I dispose of as follows viz

        I give & bequeath unto my loving wife Experience Cooper the whole of all my Real Estate & personal Estate whatsoever or wheresoever to be found with Liberty to sell or dispose of any part or ever the whole of the same if need be for her support or Maintenance in a comfortable Manner for so long a time as she may remain my Widow, and in case of a second Marriage, to have twenty Pounds out of my said Estate & leave the remainder to be disposed of as hereafter mentioned —

        I also give and bequeath unto my loving Kinsman Thomas Copper Holmes the Son of Richard Holmes of Plymouth all such part of my aforementioned Estate (if any there be) as may remain after my said Wife’s decease or her second Marriage to him the said Thomas Cooper Holmes his Heirs & assigns forever –

        Lastly I do hereby constitute & appoint my loving Wife Experience Cooper afore-mentioned to be sole Executrix of this my last Will & Testament & do order her to pay all my just debts & funeral Charges out of my said Estate & do hereby revoke all former Wills by me made, allowing & confirming this only as my last Will & Testament. In witness whereof I the said Thomas Cooper have hereunto set my hand & Seal the day & Year above mentioned —

signed sealed & declared by the

said Thomas Cooper to be his last

Will & Testament in presence of us                                                                                 Thomas Cooper                                (seal)

                Josiah Fuller

                John Gray

                John Fuller

 

        This Codicil to my last will & Testament made this twenty seventh day of September A.D. one Thousand eight hundred & eight, that Whereas I have by this my last Will & Testament given my Wife Experience the Improvement of my Real & personal Estate during her Widowhood & a right to sell my Estate if necessary for her Support, I hereby give & bequeath to my said loving Wife Experience the whole of that part of my Real & personal wherever the same may be found to her, her Heirs & assigns, which I have purchased or acquired since the date of this my last Will & Testament that is since the twenty seventh day of April A.D. one Thousand seven hundred & Ninety one; & what I owned before that time to stand & be as is given in my said Will –

signd. seald. & declared to be a Codicil to my

last will & Testament the day & Year

abovesaid in presence of                                                                                                    Thomas Cooper                                (seal)

                Richard Holmes

                Joshua Holmes

                Rosseter Cotton

 

Presented for probate on 31 Oct. 1808 by Experience Cooper, the Executrix therein named, and proved by Richard Holmes, Joshua Holmes and Rosseter Cotton Esqr. the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Experience Cooper, the before named Executrix.

 

Barnabas Holmes Junr. of Plymouth, Yeoman, was granted Administration de Bonis non with the Will annexed of the estate of Thomas Cooper, late of Kingston, Yeoman, on 11 Apr. 1814, the Executrix his wife Experience Cooper being now deceased without completing her Executorship.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 42, p. 403-404, from FHL microfilm #0550902, and Vol. 46, p. 428.

 

 

Will of Amos Cornell of Dartmouth, Bristol County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1805) *

In the Name of God Amen I Amos Cornell of Darmouth in the County of Bristol and Commonwealth of Massachusetts Housewright being weak in body but of a sound disposing mind & memory, Thanks be to God therefor but considering the mortality of my Body and knowing that it is appointed for men once to die do make & ordain this my last Will and Testament in the following manner, viz.

Imprimus I give & bequeath to my beloved Wife Cloe the use and improvement of all my Estate both real & personal as long as she shall remain my Widow excepting Forty Acres of Land which I give to my son William hereafter described ~

Item I give & bequeath to my Son William and to his heirs & assigns forever Forty Acres of Land lying the north side of my homestead & adjoining lands owned by Ezra Winslow & Abisha bowen & Phineas Wuddk[?]

Item I give & bequeath to my Son Benjamin Forty Dollars to be paid by my Executor in one year after the Death or marriage of my wife ~

Item I give & bequeath to my Son John the Fifty Dollar Note that I have against him and Twenty Dollars to be paid by my Executor in two Years after the Death or marriage of my Wife –

Item I give & bequeath to my Son Amos & to his heirs the Fifty Dollar Note that I have against him & Twenty Dollars to be paid by my Executor in three years after he comes into possess of what I shall give him & all my Wearing apparrel ~

Item I give & bequeath to my Son Israel and to his heirs Forty Dollars to be paid by my Executor in four Years after the Death or marriage of my Wife

Item I give & bequeath to my Daughter Roby Norton Twenty Dollars to be paid by my executor in four Years after the Death or marriage of my Wife and my household Furniture after my Wifes widowhood has expired

Item I give & bequeath to my Son Philip cornel & to his heirs & assigns forever all the residue & remainder of my Estate both real & personal & to come into possession of the same after my Wife has done with the use of the same or she either marries or should be removed by Death ~ His paying all my just debts legacies & bequets, before mentioned, Funeral charges & expence of settling my Estate and lastly I do constitute and appoint my said Son Philip to be sole Executor of this my last Will and Testament ratifying this to be my last will & testament

In witness where of I the said Amos Cornel have hereunto set my hand & Seal this third Day of November in the Year of our Lord Eighteen Hundred & Five

Signed Sealed published pronounced

and declared by the said Amos Cornel to be

his last will & testament in the pre-

sence of us –         the above was interlined

Lemuel Reed        previous to signing                                                                               Amos Cornell                                    (seal)

Ezekiel Chase

Saml Perry                                                             Dec 3 1805 Approvd—

 

Presented for probate on 3 Dec. 1805 by Philip Cornell, the Executor therein named, and proved by Lemuel Reed and Ezekiel Chase, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Bristol County Probate File “Amos Cornell, Dartmouth, 1805,” from FHL microfilm #0572854.

 

 

Will of Benjamin Cornell of Dartmouth, County of Bristol, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1763) *

In the Name of God amen. This Eighth day of August Anno Domini one thousand Seven hundred and Sixty three I Benjamin Cornel of Dartmouth in the County of Bristol and province of the Massachusetts-Bay in New-England Being weak in body but of a sound disposing mind and Memory, And calling to mind the Mortality of my body and that it is appointed for all men to die, do think Proper for to make disposition of that worldly Estate with which it has plased God to bless me and therefore do make & ordain this my last Will and Testament – Principally and first of all I recommend my soul to God my Creator and my body I order to be decently buried at the discretion & cost of my Executors herein after named

Item I give and bequeath unto my beloved Wife Sarah Cornel, her heirs and assigns forever all my houshold-goods together with all my live stock, together with one Side Sadle & bridel, she paying all my Just debts and defraying allso my funeral Charges

Item I give & bequeath unto my said wife sarah Cornell the Income, use & Improvement of all my Real Estate during the time she remains my Widow and it is to be understood that the affores.d Bequests to my sd. wife is in lieu of her dower or power of thirds in my Estate

Item I give and bequeath unto My Son Timothy Cornel to him his heirs and assigns forever a lott of land containing ten Acres laying on the North Side of my brother Joseph Cornels homestead farm and bounded Southerly on it, and westerly and Northerly on the highway & Easterly on land belonging to Increase Allen

Item I give unto my said son Timothy Cornel to him his heirs and assigns forever the Southerly part of my home stead farm extending Northerly as far as a Stone cross wall which begins at the highway about Sixteen rods to the Southward of my house and extends something to the northward of East a crost my homestead And my will is that my Said Son Timothy Cornel come into possession of the two lotts of Land above given to him immediately after the marriage or decease of my widow —

Item I give & bequeath unto my Son James Cornel to him his heirs and assigns forever all the Notherly part of my homestead farm extending southerly as far as the Cross wall (above described as the Northward bound of that part of my homestead before given to my son Timothy Cornel) to gether with all the buildings standing there on and it is my will that my said Son James Cornel come into possession of the Sd. Northerly part of my homestead farm Immediately after the decease or marriage of my widow

Item I give & bequeath to my said two sons Timothy Cornel and James Cornel all my wearing apparel equally to be be divided between

Item I give and bequeath to my beloved wife Sarah Cornel A note of hand which I have upon my son Timothy Cornel Together with all the Other debts that are due to me the better to Enable her to pay all my just debts.

Item I give to my Son James Cornel all my farming tools to him his heirs & assigns forever —

Lastly I appoint, constitute & ordain my beloved Wife Sarah Cornel & my Son Timothy Cornel to be Executrix & Executor Joyntly of this my last will to see the same fulfilld according to the true intent thereof, hereby revoking & making void all other wills & testament by me heretofore made Confirming this only to be my last will & testament. In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand & Seal the day and year first above written

Sign’d Seald & declared by the said                }

Benjamin Cornel all the abovewritten             }                                                              Benjamin Cornel                             (seal)

Instrument to be his last will & testament     }

                             { Joseph Allen

In presence of us  { Joseph Allen Jun

                             { Daniel Hathway

 

Proved on 6 Nov. 1764 by Joseph Allen and Joseph Allen Junr. two of the witnesses.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Bristol County Probate File “Benjamin Cornell, Dartmouth, 1764,” from FHL microfilm #0572854.

 

 

Will of Benjamin Cornell of Hempstead, Queens County, Province of New York (1768) *

I Benjamin Cornell of Hempstead in Queens County and Province of New York being weak in Body but of sound mind and memory (blessed be God) Do this tenth day of April Annoq Domini one thousand seven hundred and Sixty Eight make and publish this my last Will and Testament, in the manner following (Viz:) Imprimis, I give and bequeath unto my beloved Wife Deborah Cornell my Chest and one feather Bed and the Furniture thereunto belonging, and the Sum of twenty pounds yearly and every year, while she continues my widdow to be paid equally by my Children hereafter named and they to give my said wife sufficient Security for the payments thereof if required; in Liew of her Dower  Item I give and bequeath unto my Daughter Hannah, one feather Bed and the Furniture thereunto belonging and all the Linning marked with the two first Letters of her Name, Item I give and bequeath unto my Daughter Sarah, one feather Bed and the furniture belonging to the same, and one Cow which she may chuse And Lastly I order and direct my Executors hereafter named to sell and dispose all the residue and remainder of my Estate both real and personal, and the Money’s arising therfrom after my just Debts and funeral Charges are all paid and discharged the Reversions and Remainders I give and bequeath Equally among my Children hereafter named (Vizt:) Elizabeth Cornell, Mary Cornell, Hannah Cornell, Samuel Cornell, George Cornell, Anne Thorn, Clemmons Cornell, Sarah Cornell, John Cornell, Joseph Cornell, and Benjamin Cornwell if either of my said Children under age without lawful Issue should Die, then his her or their part or Portion, shall be equally divided among the Survivors. I constitute and appoint my Son in Law Stephen Cornwell and James Cornwell Executors of and to this my last Will and Testament, In Witness whereof I the said Benjamin Cornell have hereunto set my Hand and Seal the Day and Year above written

                                                                                                                 his

                                                                                                Benjamin  +  Cornell                           (seal)

                                                                                                                mark

Signed sealed published and by the said Benjamin Cornwell as and for his last Will and Testament in the presence of us

Thomas Everit

Charles Hicks

Henry Hicks

 

Probated on 26 Apr. 1768, and proved by Charles Hicks and Henry Hicks, Yeomen, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration granted to Stephen Cornell, one of the Executors, on 24 May 1768.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from New York County Probate, Vol. 26, p. 323-325, copied from original Liber 26, p. 275-276

 

 

Will of Caleb Cornell of Dartmouth, County of Bristol, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1756) *

The Ninteen Day of Apriel one thousand Seven hundred and fifty Six I Caleb Cornell of Dartmouth in the County of Bristol and province of the Masschusets Bay in Newengland yeoman Being Sick and Weak in boddy but of Sound Disposeing Mind and Memory thanks Be to God for the Same: therefore Calling to Mind the Mortality of My boddy and knowing that it is appointed for all Men once to Die, Do Make and ordain this My Last Will and testament that is to Say principally and first of all I Commit My Boddy to the Earth to be Decently buried at the Descretion of My Executors hear in after Named, and as touching Such Worldly Estate Whear with it hath pleased God to Bless Me in this Life I Give Demise and Dispose of the Same in the following Manner and form –

Imprimis My Will is that all my Lawfull Debts and funeral Charges be first paid and Discharged by My Executors hear in after Named –

Item – I give and bequeath unto My Well beloved Wife Dele Cornell the use and profit of my whole Estate for her Support and to bring up my two Sons untill they Com to twenty one years of age and no Longer and after that one third part of My Estate During her Natural Life or So Long as she Remains My Widdow and No Longer but if it So happen that She Marrie then I Give unto her one fether bed and furniture and one Cow all which I give to her in Lew of her thirds and Dowry

Item further My Mind and Will is that after all the above Mentioned Debts and Legasies is paid and Discharged all the Rest and Remainder of My Estate Both Rail and personal I Give to My two Sons Gideon Cornell and Gouit Cornell to them their heirs and assigns for Ever to be Equally Devided Between them –

Item I Constitute Make and ordain My Well beloved Brothers Joseph Cornell and Daniel Cornell Soule Executors to his My Last Will and testament and I Do hear by utterly disallow Revoke and Disannul all and Every other former testaments Wills Legasies and bequests By Me in any Wais before Named Willed and bequeathed Rattifiing and Confirming this and No other to be My Last Will and testament Whear of I have hear unto Set My hand and Seal the Day and year above Writton –

Signed Sealed and published

Pronounsed and Declared this

To be My Last Will and testament                                                                                  Caleb Cornell                                   (seal)

In the Presents of us the Subscribers

Phillip Allen

Seth Allen

James Allen

 

Presented for probate on 2 Nov. 1756, and proved by Phillip Allen, being a Quaker, and James Allen.

 

Prince Allen, Benjam. Wing, and Increase Allen, all of Dartmouth, were appointed to appraise the Estate of Caleb Cornell, late of Dartmouth, on 20 Sept. 1756. The above mentioned Gentlemen (being Quakers) gave their sollomn affirmation to the faithfull discharge of their above mentioned trust. The Inventory was dated 25 Oct. 1756, and totaled £69.2.9, including some livestock, but no real estate. Joseph Cornell and Daniel Cornell, two of the Executors, gave their oath to the inventory on 2 Nov. 1756.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Bristol County Probate File “Caleb Cornell, Dartmouth, 1756,” from FHL microfilm #0572854.

 

 

Will of Edward Cornell of Dartmouth, County of Bristol, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1754) *

The Seventh Day of March AD: one Thousand Seven Hundred and Fifty Four I Edward Cornal of Dartmouth in ye: County of Bristol with in his Majestyes Province of ye: Massachusetts Bay in New England yeoman Being at this Present time in Resoneable Bodily Health and of a Sound desposing mind and Memory for which I desire to be thankfull Considering ye: uncertainty of this Life Do make and ordain this my Last Will and Testament; And as to My Worldly Estate where with God hath Been pleasd, to Bless me in this Life I Give Devise and despose of ye: Same in ye following Manner & Form (viz)

Imprimis My Will is that all my Just Debts funeral Charges and Just Expences of all Parts with Respect to Settleing my Estate should be first paid by my Executors here after Named out of my Personal Estate

Item    I Give To Susannah My Well beloved Wife one Bed with all ye: furniture thereto belonging she to take her Choice: Together with My Rideing beast And Sidesaddle and one of my Best Cows: Together with thirty pounds Lawfull Money:  I Likewise Give to my said Wife ye. use and Improvement of all My Reall Estate; Together with ye. use & Improvement of All My Personal Estate: Except what shall in Each be other ways desposed of in this my Will All which I Give To my said Wife (in Lew of her Right of Dower or Thirds in my Estate) During ye: time she Remains my widdow Except ye: First Mentiond Gift To be at her own dispose—

Item    I Give and bequeath to my Two Sons (viz) Walter Cornal and Daniel Cornal All My Housing and Lands to be Equaly Devided between them Quantity and Quallity Walter to have ye: Southerly part of my Homstead Farm with ye. Houseing & ye. als to be Made Good to my sd son Danll, in my other Lands: All which I Give to my Above said two sons and to their Heirs and Assigns for ever Provided My Son David Cornal Who went to Sea should Never Return Again: but if in Case my Said Son David Should be Now Living So that he should Return Again then I Give to him his Heirs & Assigns Forever an Equal part with my other two Sons First above Named both in My Real & Personal Estate –

Item    I Give Give to my above said Son Walter Cornal all my Wearing Apparril Together with one Horse & one Cow; Together with both Summer & Winter Keeping for Each on My Lands Above Bequeath in This my will –

Item    I Give to my above Named Son David if he is Living & Should Ever Return Again one Cow & one Horse with Summer & Winter Keeping on my abovesaid Lands; Together with my High Candlestick but if to be that my Said Son David should Never Return then Said Candlestick To be for my afore said Son Daniel I Likewise Give to my Said Son Daniel Cornal one Horse & one Cow together with Winter & Summer Keeping upon my abovesaid lands

Item    I Give David Wilcox Son of Stephen Wilcox one Silver Spoon

Item    I Give to David Cornal Son of Peleg Cornal one Silver Spoon

Item   My Will is that in Some Convenient Time after ye. Decease or Marriage of My Said wife which Shall First Happen; That My Trusty and well beloved friends, Stephen West Humphry Smith Thomas Brigs Benjamin Akin & Bartholomew Taber or Either of Them That Shall Then be Surviving Make A Devision of all my Real Estate & Likewise Personal That Shall be then Lift to & Among My above Named Sons That shall Then be Surviving if any More than one there be; or Such as Legally Represent them Which devision by them Made To be Final

Item    I Here by Constitute Make and ordain My Said Wife Susannah and My well Beloved Friend Thomas Brigs Above Named Joynt Executors of this My Last will and Testament Here by Making Void all other Wills & Testaments by me before this time Made Rattifying this and No other To be my Last Will & Testament In Witness where of I have hereunto Set my Hand & Seal ye. Day & year first above written

Signd Seald, Publishd, Pronouncd,

And Declard, by ye. Sd, Edward

Cornal as his Last Will and                                                                                               Edward Cornell                                (seal)

Testament in Presence of

Us—

    William White

    Jedidiah Wood

    Stephen West

 

Presented for probate on 5 Nov. 1754, and proved by Jedediah Wood and Stephen West, two of the witnesses.

 

Benjn Akin, Stephen Willcox and George White, all of Dartmouth, were appointed to appraise the Estate of Edward Cornell, late of Dartmouth, on 14 Oct. 1754. The Inventory of the Estate of Edward Cornel, late of Dartmouth, dated 15 Oct. 1754, was not totaled, but his real estate was valued at £600. The appraisers gave their oath to the inventory on 16 Oct. 1754, and Susannah Cornel, one of Executors, gave her oath to the inventory on 5 Nov. 1754.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Bristol County Probate File “Edward Cornell, Dartmouth, 1754,” from FHL microfilm #0572854.

 

 

Will of Edward Cornell of Hempstead, Queens County, Province of New York (1770) *

In the Name of God Amen, the fourth day of October in the year of Our Lord one thousand Seven hundred and seventy, I Edward Cornell of Hempstead, in Queens County being sick and weak in Body, but of perfect mind and memory, thanks be given to God therefore calling to the mortallity of my Body and knowing that it is appointed for all men once to die, do make and ordain this my last Will and Testament, that is to say principally and first of all I give and recommend my Soul into the Hands of Almighty God that gave it, and my Body I recommend to the Earth to be buried in decent Christian Burial at the discretion of my Executors nothing doubting but at the general resurrection I shall receive the same again by the mighty power of God, and as touching such Worldly Estate wherewith it hath pleased God to bless me in this life I give and dispose of the same in the following manner and form– first I give and bequeath to my Son William Cornell the House and Land lying the East side of the Brook where he now lives, secondly I give to my two Sons Benjamin Cornell and William Cornell all my Lands lying the west side of the Brook to be equally divided betwixt them, Benjamin Cornell to have the west side and William Cornell to have the East side, to be divided by a north and south line, and also I give to my Son William Cornell all my Salt meadow lying in Hungry Harbour, and likewise I give to my two Sons Benjamin Cornell & William Cornell all my Land lying on the plains and all my patting Right to be equally divided betwixt them, and also that my Son Benjamin Cornell shall pay one hundred pounds to my Son John Cornell, and also that William Cornell shall pay one hundred pounds to my Son Daniel’s Children John Cornell and Caleb Cornell and Milson Cornell and Mary Cornell, to be equally divided betwixt them, and if either of them should die without Issue to fall to the rest; And also I give to my Daughter Hannah Abrahams Twenty five pounds to be paid out of my Estate, and likewise I give to my Daughter Elizabeth Lamberson the use of Twenty five pounds; But if she should have any lawfull Heir then it shall fall to them; But if she Dies without any lawfull Heir then it shall go to her Son James Cornell, and also I give to my Daughter Elizabeth Lamberson my great Cubboard and also I give to my Daughter Judah Cornell the use of Twenty five pounds as long as she lives, and att her death to fall to her two sisters Hannah Abrahams and Elizabeth Lamberson and likewise I give to my Daughter Judah one great puter platter that was her Grandmothers and likewise I give to my Grandson Melson Cornell one great puter platter And also I give to my Grandson James Cornell the sum of Ten pounds to be paid out of my Estate, and likewise I give to my Girl Martha Dick five Earthen plates, one linnen wheel and Twenty pounds in Money to be paid out of my Estate, and further if she stays with me as long as I live and does not marry and after my Death she shall have milk of two Cows and paster and hay found them, and also all the turkeys I give to Martha Dick, and likewise I give to Martha Dick one Bed and bedstead and furniture–And also I give to my Granddaughter Elizabeth Cornell Daughter of William Cornell the sum of Ten pounds and one Linnen Wheel, and also I give to my Grandson Lankil Cornell the sum of Ten pounds and my riding beast, Saddle and Bridle and also I give to my four Grand Children Edward Cornell son of John Cornell, and Marget Watts and Edward Abrams and Marget Abramas all the remainder of my Buter to be equally to be divided betwixt them; and also to my two Grandsons Edward Cornell and Edward Abrams, each of them one Calf apiece, and likewise I give to my son William Cornell one Waggon plow and Harrow, and all my farming Utensills, and one pair of Oxen and the remainder of my Horses and five Sheep, and likewise I give to my Grandson James Cornell five sheep, and the remainder of my Cattle and things to be sold to pay of all my just Debts—  And likewise I ordain and Constitute my two Sons Benjamin Cornell and William Cornell to be my Executors of this my last Will and Testament – And I do hereby utterly disallow revoke and disannul all and every other Wills and Legacies before named, and this to be my last Will and Testament.

        In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and Seal the day and year above Written

                                                                                                                                                Edward Cornell   -e]  his mark                        (seal)

Signed Sealed published pronounced and declared by the said Edward Cornell as his last Will and Testament in the presence of us the subscribers

Samuel Hicks

Frederick Nosran

Benajah Wiggins

 

Probated on 20 Nov. 1782, and proved by Samuel Hicks of Hempstead, one of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Benjamin Cornell and William Cornell, the Executors, on 7 Jan. 1783.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from New York County Probate, Vol. 35, p. 289-292, copied from original Liber 35, p. 166-167.

 

 

Will and Codicil of Elisha Cornell of Swansea, Bristol County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1806) *

In the Fear of the Lord Amen. I Elisha Cornell of Swanzey in the County of Bristol and Commonwealth of Massachusetts Yeoman though advanced in age yet through the goodness of god of a sound Disposeing mind and memory and calling to mind the uncertainty of life believing that it is appointed for man once to die do make and Establish this my last Will and Testament in manner and form following. First and Principally I Commit and Spirit into the Hand of God who gave it and my body I Commit to the Earth to be Decently buried at the discretion of my Executor —

And such worldly Estate as it hath pleased god to bless me with in this life my Will is and I give and dispose of the Same in the following manner

Imprimis. I order that all my Just debts and Funeral Chages be well and truely paid With Convenient Speed after my decease by my Executor out of my Estate

Item I give unto my beloved wife Patience Cornell all the House hold Goods that she hath made sence living with me also all the implements that are any ways appertaining to makeing Cloth also my great Chair I also give unto my said Wife the use and Improvement of all the dwelling house Where I now live together With the use and Improvement of the one half of my Real Estate after my Just debts are paid so long as she remains my Widow and no longer (NB my Will and meaning is that my Wife shall have Wood Sufficient for the Support of one fire and no more as long as she Remains my Widow and no longer) —

I give unto my son Joseph Cornell twenty dollars in addition to what I have heretofore given him to be paid unto him by my Executor after my Wives Right in my Estate Ceases

I give unto my son Elisha Cornell one hundred dollars to be paid him by my Executor after wives right in my Estate Ceases

I give unto my son Reubin Cornell one hundred and twenty dollars to be paid him by my Executor after my wives right in my Estate Ceases also my Wearing apparril —

I give unto my two grandsons Elisha and David Hix (having given their mother her portion heretofore) five dollars to be devided Equally between them to be paid by my Executor after my wives right in my Estate Ceases –

I give unto my Daughter Mary Wheaton five dollars in addition to what I have heretofore given her to be paid by my Executor after my Wives right in my Estate Ceases

I give unto my Daughter Elisabeth Chace Thirty dollars to be paid to her by my Executor after my Wives right in my Estate Ceases

I give unto my Wives two Daughters (Viz) Hannah and Mary Reynolds Each a Sheep to be delivered to them by my Executor at my Discease

I Farther give unto my Son Elisha Cornell my fire arms which he hath in his possession

I give unto My son Asa Cornell all the rest and Remainder of my Estate both Real and personal Not before given away in this Will and to heirs and Assignes forever on Condition that he pays the Legacies given or ordered in this Will to be paid by him for the Performance Whereof my said Real Estate is hereby made liable and Chargable therewith —

I hereby Nominate Constitute and appoint my beloved Son Asa Cornell to be my sole Executor to this my last Will and Testament Hereby Ordaining Ratifying and Confirming this and this only to be my last Will and Testament – Making Null and void all other or former Wills by me at any time heretofore made In Witness Whereof I have hereunto Set my hand and Seal This twenty first day of February in the year of Lord one thousand Eight hundred and Six

Signed Sealed and delivered              }

by the Said Elisha Cornell                  }                                                                              Elisha Cornell                                  (seal)

to be his last Will and                        }

Testament in the Presence                  }

of    Joshua Mason

            Caleb OBrien           

        Benjamin Buffinton Jur                                                                                              June 3d. 1806

                                                                                                                                                     approved

 

Be it known to all men by these presents that I Elisha Cornell of Swanzey in the County of Bristol and Commonwealth of Massachusetts Yeoman have made and declared my last Will and Testament in Writeing bearing date the twenty first day of February in the year of our Lord one thousand Eight hundred and Six

I the said Elisha Cornell by this Present Codicil do Ratify and Confirm my said last Will and Testament and do further give unto my Beloved Wife Patience Cornell all the Provisions I shall or may have on hand at my discease together With all that is Calculated for the Insuing year and also all the flax and Wool that I have by me at my discease I further give unto my said Wife Six Sheep and an Iron Pot and an Iron Bason and Iron Spider and all my tubs and Barrils and a pair of Iron dogs

my Will and meaning is that this codicil be adjudged to be a part and parcel of my last Will and Testament and that all things Contained and mentioned therein be as faithfully and truly performed and as fully and amply in Every Respect as if the same were so declared and set down in my said last will and Testament Witness my hand this Eighth day of April one thousand Eight hund and Six                                                                                                                                                     his

Signed in the Presents of us.                                                                                              Elisha  X  Cornell

                                                                                                                                                        mark

Joshua Mason

Caleb OBrien

Benjamin Buffinton Jur.                                                                                                     June 3d. 1806

                                                                                                                                                     approved

 

Presented for probate on 3 June 1806, and proved by Joshua Mason and Benjamin Buffinton Junr., two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to his son Elisha [sic] Cornell, the Executor, on 3 June 1806. Joshua Mason and Benjamin Buffinton jur., both of Swanzey, were sureties on the bond of Asa Cornell, Executor to the last Will and Testament of Elisha Cornell, late of Swanzey, on 3 June 1806.

 

James Luther Esq., David Mason and Benjamin Buffinton were appointed to appraise the estate of Elisha Cornell, late of Swanzey, on 3 June 1806. The Inventory was dated 22 July 1806, his real estate totaled $1762, and his personal estate totaled $197.46. Asa Cornell, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 4 Nov. 1806.

 

James Luther Esq., Benjamin Slade, and David Mason, all of the County of Bristol, Freeholders, were appointed to appraise the Real Estate of Elisha Cornell, late of Swansey, and to set off to Patience Cornell, the deceased’s Widow, one full third part of the said Estate for her Dower or Thirds, on 3 June 1806. The division was dated 22 July 1806, and approved on 4 Nov. 1806.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Bristol County Probate File “Elisha Cornell, Swansea, 1806,” from FHL microfilm #0572854.

 

 

Will of Hannah Cornell of Hempstead, Queens County, Province of New York (1776) *

In the Name of God, Amen. the twenty six of November 1776. I Hannah Cornell of Hemsted in Queens County on Long Island and in the Province of New York, being very sick and weak in Body but of parfect mind and memory thanks be given unto God therefore calling unto mind the mortality of my Body and knowing that it is appointed for all woman once to die, do make and ordain this my last Will and Testament, that is to say principally and first of all I give and recomend my Soul into the hands of Almighty God that gave it and my Body I recommend to the Earth to be Buried at the discretion of my Executors nothing doubting but at the General Resurrection I shall receive the same again by the mighty power of God, and as toching such worldly Estate wherewith it pleased God to bless me in this life I give demise and dispose of the same in the following manner and form. First I will and order all My Just debts and funeral Charges to be paid. I give and Bequeath unto my Grand daughter Hannah Cornnell the sum of Forty pounds Current Lawfull money of New York. I give and Bequeath unto my Granddaughter Hannah Cornell three Tabel spoons and three teaspoons, And one pice of Hucker Back. I give and Bequeath unto My Grandson Henry Cornnell the sum of ten pounds Currant Lawfull Money of New York, I give and Bequeath unto My Granson Barak Cornnell the sum of ten pounds Current Lawfull Money of New York. I give and bequeath unto my Granson Joshua Cornnell the sum of ten pounds Current Lawfull money of New York. I give and bequeath unto my Granson John Cornnell the sum of ten pounds Current Lawfull money of New York. I give and Bequeath unto my Gran Daughter Mary Cornnell the sum of ten pounds Current Lawfull Money of New York. I give and Bequeath unto my Grandaughter Hannah Brucks the sum of twenty pounds Current Lawfull money of New York, and one Bed and Bedsted that I do sleep on, and one pece Hucker Back, I give and Bequeath unto my Grandaughter Abigil Lands one Bed and Bedsted, is below with a sale Tick and Twenty pounds Current Lawfull Money of New York, and one pece of Hucker Back. I give and Bequeath unto my two Grandaughters Hannah Brucks and Abbigil Lands equil alike three silver Table spoons and three Teaspoons Betwene you Both – I do give my Negro Pompe his Liberty if he can pay my Son Barak Cornell or his Heirs the sum of four pounds Current Lawfull Money of New York pr yer for Eaightteen years. I give my Negro Beller hur Liberty if if she can pay my Son Barak Cornnell or his Heirs the sum of three pounds Current Lawfull money of New York pr year for Eaightteen years.—and when my Negro Gairl Caulled Lamea come to be Eaightteen years old I give hur Liberty if she can pay my Son Barak Cornnell or his Heirs the sum of three pounds Current Lawfull Money of New York pr Year for Eaighteen years.—I give my Negro Boy Charles when he is with Eage his Liberty, if he can pay my Son Barak Cornnell or his Heirs the sum of foure pounds Current Lawfull money of New York pr year for Eaighteen years—and I give and bequeath unto my Son Barak Cornnell all the reminder of my hold moverbels Estate & my Residues, whome I likewise constitute make and Ordain Barak Cornnell my Sole Executors of this my last Will and Testament of all, And I do hereby utterly disallow revoke and disannull all and every other former Testaments wills Legacies Bequests and Executers by me in any ways befoure named Willed and bequeathed Ratifying and Confirming this and no other to be my last will and Testament. In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and Seal the day and Year above written.—

                                                                                                                                                Hannah Cornell                (seal)

us Witness

Thomas Fowler

Margaret Fowler

Deborah Cornnell  her X Mark

 

Probated on 11 Mar. 1777, and proved by Thomas Fowler, yeoman, and Deborah Cornwell, spinster, both of Queens County, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration granted to Barak Cornel, the Executor, on 19 Apr. 1781.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from New York County Probate, Vol. 34, p. 191-193, copied from original Liber 34, p. 151-153.

 

 

Will of Isaac Cornell of Flushing, Queens County, Province of New York (1765) *

                I Isaac Cornell of Flushing in Queens County in the Province of New York being weak in Body but of sound Mind and Memory (Blessed be God) do this twenty third day of January Anno Domini One thousand seven hundred and Sixty five, make and publish this my last Will and Testament in the manner following (Vizt.) Imprimis I give and bequeath unto my loving wife Deborah Cornell in Leiu of her Dower One of my horses which she may choose also two Beds with the Furniture belonging thereunto Item I do order all the Residue and Remainder of my personal Estate be sold and the mowing Ground adjoining the Land of Joseph Cornell, Cornelius Van Wyck, Obadiah Cornell and the Highway by my Executors (hereafter named) to Discharge my lawfull Debts if them should not be Sufficient to pay and discharge all my lawfull Debts, then I order and direct my under mentioned Executors to sell and dispose of such Land or Lands as they shall think most convenient for the discharging of my Debts aforesaid. Item I give and bequeath unto my beloved Daughter Margaret Cornell all the residue and remainder of my Estate to her her Heirs and Assigns forever but if my said Daughter should die under Age or without lawfull Issue then the bequeath or granted Legacy I give and bequeath unto my three beloved Brothers James Cornell, Stephen Cornell, and Obadiah Cornell equally to be divided among them their Heirs and assigns forever &c. Lastly I constitute and appoint my loveing Brothers Samuel Cornell, James Cornell, Stephen Cornell, and Obadiah Cornell Executors of this my last Will and Testament. In Witness hereof I the said Isaac Cornell have hereunto set my hand and fixed my Seal the day and Year above written

                                                                                                                                                Isaac Cornell                    (seal)

Signed sealed published and by the said Isaac Cornwell pronounced as and for his last Will and Testament in the presence of us

Charles Hicks

Charles Hicks the 3d.

Robert Jackson

 

Probated on 9 Apr. 1765, and proved by Charles Hicks, Charles Hicks the 3d. and Robert Jackson, of Queens County Yeomen. Letters of Administration granted to James Cornell and Stephen Cornell, two of the Executors, on 1 June 1765.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from New York County Probate, Vol. 25, p. 105-107, copied from original Liber 25, p. 94-95.

 

 

Will of Israel Cornell of Dartmouth, County of Bristol, Massachusetts Bay (1785) *

In the Name of God Amen this Twenty-Eight Day of february A.D. 1785 I Israel Cornell of Dartmouth in the County of bristol and Commonwelth of Masechusets yeoman being weak in body but of a well and sound Desposeing Mind and Memory for which I think God and – Calling to mind the mortallity of my body and Knowing that it is Appointed for men once to Dye: Do make and ordain this My Last will And testament: and first I Commit My body to the Earth to be buryed Decently by my Executor: and My Soul I Resign to God that Gave it And as touching Such worldly Estate as it hath pleased God to bless Me with in this life I Give and Dispose of the Same in the following Manner and form Viz –

Imprimis I Give to My beloved wife Susanna the Use and Improvement of All My Estate both Real and personal So long as She Remains my widdow:

Item. . I Give to My Son William Cornell twelve pounds Silver money to be paid by My Exetor one year after My Executor Comes into possesion of what I Shall Give him in this will.

Item. . I Give to My Daughter Elisabeth Chase the one half of my housestuff when My wife hath Don Useing of it according to My Will —

and twelve pounds in Silver Money to be paid to her two years after My Executor Comes into possesion of what I Shall Give him in this will

Item. . I Give to My Daughter Susanna Chase the other half of my housestuff And to Come into the possesion when my wife hath Don useing it According to My Will: and twelve pounds Silver monney to be paid by my Executor three years after he Comes into possesion of what I Shall Give him in this Will –

Item – – My will is that My two Sons Amos and William Shall have my wereing apparel Equealy between them Each his part and part alike –

Finally I Give and bequeath to My Son Amos Cornell and to his heirs and Assigns forever All the Rest and Residue of My Estate both Real An personal wherever it may be found not Given in this my will And to Come into possesion at My wives Death or marriage which firs happens: And I Do make Constitute and ordain him my sd Son Amos to be the Sole Executor of this My Will and he Shall pay All My Just Depts and funeral Charges and the Legaces herein mentioned to be paid: And I Do Ratifie and Confirm this Instrument to be My Last Will and witness whereof I the Sd Israel Cornell have hereunto Set My hand and Seal the Day and year above writen

Signed Sealed published pronounced and            }

Declared by the sd Israel Cornell to be                  }                                                        Israell Cornell                                  (seal)

his Last Will and testament in prisents of us        }

Nathaniel Baker

Peter Wicks

Russell Mason                                                                                                     Proved March 7th 1786

 

 

Presented for probate on 7 Mar. 1786 by Amos Cornell, the Executor therein named, and proved by Nathaniel Baker and Peter Wilkes. Letters of Administration were granted to Amos Cornell on 7 Mar. 1786, with Daniel Hicks of Dartmouth, yeoman, and Nathaniel Baker of Rehoboth, yeoman, in the County of Bristol, as sureties.

 

The Inventory of the Personal Estate of Israel Cornel, late of Dartmouth, was appraised on 10 Dec. 1785 by Daniel Hicks and Peter Wilke, and totaled £83.16.4. Amos Cornell, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 7 Mar. 1786.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Bristol County Probate File “Israel Cornell, Dartmouth, 1786,” from FHL microfilm #0572854.

 

 

Will of James Cornell of Dartmouth, County of Bristol, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1767) *

The Last Will and Testament of James Cornell of Dartmouth In the County of Bristol In the Province of the masachusets Bay In New england yeoman being at this present time In as good helth of Body as Common for old age – but of a Sound Disposing mind perfect memory & understanding as in my Life past thanks begiven unto God. Therefore Considering the uncertainty of this my natural Life do for the preventing future Trouble in my family make & ordain this my Last Will & Testament that that is to Say principally & first of all I Give & Recommend my Sole To God that gave it and my body I commit to the Earth therein to be Decently buried at the Discretion of my Executor herein after Nominated and Also that Temporal Estate it hath pleased the Lord to bles me With In this Life (after all my Just debts & funeral Expences are paid & Discharged) I give Devise and Dispose of the Same In the following Manner & form ~~~

Imprimis I give and bequeath unto my Well beloved Son Stephen Cornell all my uplands and Salt meadows Which I own Lying & being In the Township of Dartmouth aforesaid together with all the housing & buildings on the Same to be & Remain unto him his heirs & assigns for Ever together also with all my personal Estate Be it of what nature or kinde soever Excepting only what I Shall here in after otherwise Dispose of he my Said Son paying & performing as I Shall herein after order him to Do More over I Give unto him my Said Son one of my beads with the bedsteed and Cord And the beding belonging to it.

Itim I Give and bequeth unto my Well beloved Wife Rebeckah Cornell the Sum of one hundred Spanish Silver mill’d Dollars to bepaid untoher Within one year after my Deceas by my Executor herein after nomynated Moreover I give unto her My Said Wife all my houshold goods She brought with her to me When I married her together with her Pillun She brought also to me and the one half of my Side Saddle I also give unto my Said wife one of my Cows

Itim I give and bequeath unto my Well beloved Daughter Elizabeth Cornell the Sum of Six pounds Lawfull money to be paid unto her by my Executor herein after named Within one year after my Deceas and So Six pounds Lawfull Money at the End of Every year for & During the time my Said Daughter Shall Live unmarried & no Longer Moreover I Give & bequeath unto my Sd Daughter all the Remander of my household goods be them of what nature or kinde So ever Which is not herein before given unto my Sd wife Excepting only that bed bedsted & Cord with ye. beding belonging to it Which I have herein before given unto my Son Stephen Cornell I also give unto her my Sd Daughter the other of my Pilluns & the other half of my Side Saddle I also Give unto her my Said Daughter one of my Cows

Itim I Give & bequeath unto my Said Wife Rebeckah Cornell & to my Daughter Elizabeth Cornell the use & Improvement of the one half of my now Dwellinghouse With the use and Improvement of my Garden & that yard which is fenced In With wall near the Garden With a priviledge to gether Summer fruit out of my orchard & Winter fruit Sufficient for their own uses both for sumer & winter together with the one half of my provision & one half of my Wool & flax that I Shall have Laid in for my familys use at the time of my Deceas together with the Run of two hogs in my orchard & apriviledge of Cutting fire wood Sufficient to Keep one fire for my Wife & Daughters use on that Land which I bought of Jeremiah Brownell the Improvements & priviledges In this paragraft given to my Sd wife & Daughter to be & Remain unto them & to be Equally Improved between them as followeth to my Said wife for & During the time She Shall Reman my Widow and to my Said Daughter for & During the time that She Shall Live unmarried It is to be understood that they are to have the Improvement of the one half of the Sellow room as well as the housroom.

It is also to be understood that all the Gifts herein Given to my Said Wife Rebeckah Cornell Is to be In Lew of her Right of Dowry and power of thirds in my Estate If She please to Except of it as Such and not other wise.

Itim My mind and Will is that I do Will and order that If my Said Wife Should Refuse and would not take up With the Gifts herein Given unto her In Lew of her Right of Dowry and power of thirds in my Estate that then & In Such Cace one third part of them Gifts herein given to my Said Wife Shall be and Remain unto my Said Daughter Elizabeth Cornell and the other two thirds to be & Remain unto my Son Stephen Cornell ~~

Itim of this my Last will and Testament I do nominate Constitute & appoint make And ordain my beloved Son Stephen Cornell Sole Executor Desireing him In all Love to take Cear & See the Same Duly and truly fulfilled according to the true Intent and meaning thereof And by these presents I do Revoke make null & void all & Every other Testaments Wills Legacies and bequests by me In any Ways before named willed & bequeathed Ratifying & Confirming this & no other to be my Last will & Testament In Witness whereof I have hereunto Set my hand & Seal this Seventh Day of March In the Seventh year of his majesties Reign George the third over Great Brittain &c King Annoqe. Domini 1767

Signed Sealed Published Pronounced and Declared

by the Said James Cornell as his Last Last will &

Testament In the Presence of us the Subscribers

                Timothy Tripp                                                                                                      James Cornell                                   (seal)

                Thomas Tripp

                Lovat Tripp

 

Presented for probate on 29 Apr. 1776, and proved by Thos. Tripp and Lovat Tripp, two of the witnesses.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Bristol County Probate File “James Cornell, Dartmouth, 1776,” from FHL microfilm #0572854.

 

 

Will of Johannes Cornell of Flatbush, Kings County, Province of New York (1745) *

In the Name of God Amen I Johannes Cornell of Flat Bush in Kings County of Nassau Island in the Colony of New York Yeoman being at this time in pritty good health of Body and of sound and perfect memory and Understanding (Blessed and praised be the Lord for the same but calling to Remembrance ye uncertain Estate of this transitory life and that all Flesh must Yeald unto death when it pleases God to call do make ordain Constitute and declare this my last Will and Testament in manner and forme following that is to say first and principally I commit my precious & immortal Soule into ye mercifull hands of God my creator hoping through the Merrits Death and Passion of my blessed Saviour & Redeemer Christ Jeses to have and receive afull pardon & free Remission of my manifold Sins & to inherit Everlasting life & my body to the earth from whence it Was taken to be buried in such decent & Christian manner as to my Executors hereafter named shall be thought Meet and Convenient & as touching such Temporal Estate which the Lord in Mercy far above my deserts hath been Pleased to bestow upon me I give devise and Dispose of ye. same in the following manner and form Imprimis I will and order that all such debts & duties which I owe in Law or Conscience to any persons whatsoever and also my Funeral Charge to be well & truly satisfied and paid with in some convenient time after my decease Item I will order and bequeath after my depts & funeral Charges are paid my whole Estate Reall and personall to my dearly beloved Wife Lammetie Cornell to be freely possessed and injoyed by her during her Widowhood but in case she happens to remarry then I will order and bequeath her out of my Estate only fifteen pounds New York Money Yearly and every Year during her Natural life Item after my said beloved Wifes decease I will order give devise and bequeath to my Grandson Johannes Rapelӱe Son to Daniel Rapelӱe deceased and my deceased Daughter Aeltie Rapelӱe and to his heirs and Assigns forever All that Messuage Tenement and plantation on which I now dwell together with all the outlands and Meadows and other the Rights priviledges and Appurtenances to ye. said plantation belonging and Appertaning With also that peice of Woodland which I purchased of Jores Brinkerhoff deceased Scituate in ye. Limitts of Newtown between the Lands of William Howard and Neu Boswyck as the said Land is now in my possession Together also with all my utensils of Husbandry belonging to my said Plantation Three Cows and all my Horses as also my Negro Boy Commoney aged about Seventeen years and my Negro Girl Lyne aged about thirteen Years on Condition that my said Grandson Johannes Rapelӱe or his heirs shall well and truly pay and disburst for ye. premises hereby to him and them devised and bequeathed ye. full and just Sum of Five Hundred pounds New York Money as aforesaid to be divided in an equal proportion between the other nine Children of his said Mother (my Daughter Aeltje Rapelӱe & that also in nine equal yearly payments ye. first whereof to be made ye. first day of May after the decease of my beloved Wife Lammetie Cornell to my Grand Daughter Lammetie now Wife to Hendrick Brinkerhoff her heirs or Assigns and ye next to my Grandson Daniel Rapelӱe his heirs or Assigns & After that manner to ye eldest of my said Grand Children) there heirs or Assigns downward untill the said full sum of Five Hundred pounds be paid by said Yearly Payments but in case any of my said nine Grand Children happen to depart this life in Nonage and with out lawfull Issue then I will and order that his her or there part shall desolve to the Surviving of all the Children of my deceased Daughter Altje Rapalje their heirs and Assigns in equal proportions

Item I give unto my Grandson Johannes aforementioned my large duch Bible and my Gun Item I give unto my Grandson Jores Rapalje my Negro Boy Tom Eaged about Six years but in case my Grandson Jores shold depart this Life in Nonage then the Negro Boy shall be with ye Remaining parte of my estate to be devided Amongst all my GrandChildren Item I give and bequeath all the rest and remaining part of my Estate Real and personall of what Nature kind quality or Condition soever or wheresoever the same or any part thereof shall or may be found in equal proportion to all my Grand Children ye. Children of my said Daughter Aeltie Rapalӱe deceased in said proportion for ever

Lastly I do nominate Constitute and Appoint my Grand Son in Law Hendrick Brinkerhoff and my Grand Son Daniel Rapalӱe & my Grand Son Johannes Rapalӱe Executors of this my last Will and Testament In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and Seal Day of November in the Nineteenth year of his Majesty’s Reign in Ye Year of our Blessed Lord and Saviour Christ Jesus One Thousand Seven Hundred And Forty five                                      mark

                                                                                                                                                 T            Johannes Cornel  (seal)

                                                                                                                                                his

Signed Sealed published and declared by the said Johannes Cornell as his last Will & Testament in Presents of us ye Subscribers Nicholas Wycof Cornelius Wycof Necklas Wyckof

 

Probated on 10 Jan. 1748 before George Clinton Esq. Captain General and Governour in Chief of the Province of New York and Territories thereon depending in America Vice Admiral of the same and Admiral of the White Squadron of his Majesty’s Fleet. Administration of his estate was granted to Hendrick Brinkerhoff and Daniel Rapalye two of the Executors therein named.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from New York County Probate, Vol. 16, p. 414-416, copied from original Liber 16, p. 388-390.

 

 

Will of John Cornell of Rockaway, Hempstead, Queens County, Province of New York (1741) *

In the Name of God Amen. I John Cornell of Rockway in the Bounds of Hempstead on the Island of Nassau and in the Colony of New York Colonel of the Militia in Queens County being at this time in good Health of Body and of sound Mind Memory and understanding thanks be to God for the same Considering the uncertainty of Life and Certainty of Death do make this my Last Will and Testament in manner and form following that is to say first and principally I commit my precious and immortal Soul into the mercifull Hands of God that gave it hoping for pardon and Remission of all my Sins through the Merits and Intercession of Jesus Christ my blessed Saviour and Redeemer and my Body to the Earth to be buried in such decent and Christian like Manner as to my beloved Wife (or in case of her Death) as to my other Executors) shall seem meet. Item I will order and direct that all my just Debts and funeral Expences be duely paid and discharged in Convenient time after my Deceas

Item Whereas I did heretofore enter into one Bond Obligation unto Justice Jonathan Whitehead late of Jamaica in Queens County aforesaid & since deceased Conditioned for the payment of the sum of three hundred pounds or some such sum as by the said Bond hereby referred to will more fully appear, And Whereas I did enter into the said Bond in order to make some provision for my beloved Child and Daughter Gloriana now the wife of Henry Foster of Jamaica in Queens County of sd. yeoman and did deliver the said Bond unto him the said Jonathan Whitehead upon Trust and Confidence that in Case he should survive me then he should receive the Moneys due on said Bond from my Executors and pay the Moneys due on said Bond from my Executors and pay the same unto my said Daughter to and for her use the which Bond he the said Jonathan did before his Death deliver unto my said Daughter in whose Hands the same is now remaining wherefore in order to satisfie and pay the said Bond or Obligation, I do give and bequeath unto the said Gloriana Foster the sum of three hundred pounds Current Money of New York to be paid unto her within Six months after my Decease, in full satisfaction and discharge of the said Bond or Obligation and not otherwise and upon the payment thereof she is to deliver up or release said Bond unto my Executors. Item All the Rest Residue and Remainder of my Goods Chattels and personal Estate whatsoever and wheresoever I do give and bequeath unto my dear and loving Wife Letitia Cornell and to her Executors Administrators and assigns for Ever, Except the sum of One hundred pounds which sum I do hereby give and bequeath unto my Nephew Charles the son of my late Brother Thomas Cornell and which sum of One hundred pounds is to remain in the Hands of my said Wife during her Life and paid unto my said Nephew Charles within Six months after the Decease of my said wife and not before. Item I do give devise and bequeath unto my said dear wife Lettitia during her natural Life all that my Farm or Plantation situate and being at Rockway aforesaid and all my Lands and Rights in Hempstead and all other my Lands Tenements Hereditaments & real Estate whatsoever & wheresoever, To have and to Hold the same unto my said wife during her natural Life as aforesaid to use and Enjoy or to receive the Rents Issues and profits there of for and towards her better subsistance and Maintainance during her Life as aforesaid and from and immediately after the Death of my said wife Lettetia then I do give devise and bequeath my said Farm or plantation at Rockway and all my Lands and Rights in Hempstead aforesd. Together with all other my Lands Tenements Hereditaments and Real Estate whatsoever and wheresoever unto my said Daughter Gloriana the wife of Henry Foster aforesaid and to her Heirs and Assignes for Ever, To have and to hold the same unto her the said Gloriana Foster and to her Heirs and Assignes for ever to her and their sole and only proper use Benefit and Behoof for evermore. Item I do make ordain Constitute and appoint my said wife Lettetia and my Nephew Thomas Cornell Executors of this my last Will and Testament hereby revoking all former and other will or Wills by me at any time heretofore made and declare this to be my only last Will and Testament. In Testimony whereof I the said John Cornell have hereunto set my Hand and Seal this sixteenth day of June in the fifteenth year of the Reign of our Souveraign Lord George the Second of Great Britain France & Ireland King Defender of the Faith &c. and in the year of our Lord Christ One thousand and seven hundred and forty one.

                                                                                                                                                John. Cornell                    (seal)

Signed Sealed published pronounced and declared by the said John Cornell as his last Will and Testament in the presence of us who hath hereto subscribed our Names as Witnesses thereof in his presence

                                                                                                                                                Jno. Chambers

                                                                                                                                                Jno. Barton

                                                                                                                                                Fredk. Phillipse Junr.

 

Letters of Administration granted to Lettetia Cornell and Thomas Cornell, the Executors, on 18 Apr. 1745.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from New York County Probate, Vol. 15, p. 350-351, copied from original Liber 15, p. 377-378.

 

 

Will of John Cornell of Dartmouth, County of Bristol, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1755) *

I John Cornel of Dartmouth In the County of Bristol in the province of the Massachusets Bay in New England yeoman being Sick and weak of Body but of Sound disposing Mind and Memory thanks be to god for it therefore Calling to mind the mortality of my body and knowing that it is appointed for all men once to die do make and ordain this my Last will and testament that is to say Principaly and first of all I Give and Recommend my Soul in to the hands of God that Gave it and my Body to be Buried in decent Christian Burial and as touching Such worldly Estate where with it hath pleased God to Bless me with in this Life I Give Demise and dispose of the Same in the following Manner and form

Imprimis I will that all my Just Debts Be well and truly paid by my Executor hear after named in Sum Convenient after my deceas

Itam where as My Son Job being Dead I Give and bequeath to his two sons Namely Job Cornell and John Cornell the Southerly part of My homestade farm With the housing and orchard thereon standing to be Equaly Divided Betwen them there heirs and assigns for Ever  I allso Give to my two Grandsons the one Moity or halfe part of all My Salt meadow and Segy flat in the township of sd Dartmouth to be Equaly betwen them there heirs and assigns I also Give to my Sd Grandsons the one halfe of all my personal Estate of what Nature or kind so Ever

Itam My Will is that My Daughter in Law Mary Cornell have the use and Improvement of what I have above Given to my two Grandsons Boath Real and personal to Supert and bring them up with all during there Minority and then to be and Remaine to them there heirs and assigns as abovesd.

Itam I Give and bequeath to My Loveing Son Isaac Cornell the Northerly halfe of My home stade farm with the one moitie of My Salt Meadow on Segy flatt to be and Remain to him My Sd Son Isaac and assigns for Ever I also Give to My sd Son the use and Improvement of one third part of the orchard on the south halfe for fiften years from the Date hear of I Likewise and bequeath to him my Son Isaac the other Moity or halfe part of My personal Estate of what Nature or kind so Ever Whom I Likewise Constitute Make and ordain Sole Executor to his My Last will and testament and I do hearby uterly Revoke Make nul and void all and Every other Will or Wills Legacies Bequest and Executor by Me in any wise heartofore Made or named Ratifieing Confirming and alowing this and no other to be my Last Will and testament In Witnes where of I have hearunto Set my hand and Seal this first day January Annodomini 1755

Signed Sealed Published

Pronounced and declared                                                                                                   John Cornell                                     (seal)

by the sd John Cornell to be

his Last Will and testament

In presents of us the Subscribers

   Jonathan Davel Juner

   Richard Cornell

   Beriah Goddard

 

Presented for probate on 4 May 1762, and proved by Jonathan Davill Jr and Beriah Godard, two of ye witnesses.

 

Jonathan Devel ye 2d, Philip Howland and Ezekiel Cornel, all of Dartmouth, were appointed to appraise the Estate of John Cornel, late of Dartmouth, on 27 Feb. 1762. The Inventory was dated 1 Mar. 1762, and totaled £33.6.7, no real estate. Isaac Cornell, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 4 May 1762.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Bristol County Probate File “John Cornell, Dartmouth, 1762,” from FHL microfilm #0572854.

 

 

Will of John Cornell of Flushing, Queens County, Province of New York (1757) *

                In the name of God Amen I John Cornell of Flushing in Queens County in the Province of New York Yeoman this Twenty eighth day of February in the year of our Lord Christ one thousand seven hundred and fifty seven being in good health of Body and of perfect mind and memory blessed be God, and considering with myself the uncertainty of this Life, and knowing that all Men once must Die and in order therefore to settle my Affairs as to my worldly Estate to prevent differences after my decease, I do hereby make and ordain this my last Will and Testament in manner following Imprimis I will and order that all my just and lawfull Debts and funeral Charges be well and truly paid and discharged by my Executors hereafter named Item I give and bequeath unto my dearly beloved Wife Mary Cornell my best feather Bed and all the furniture belonging to it Item I will and order that my Executors hereafter named as soon as convenient after my decease Sell and dispose of all that my Messuage Tenement dwelling House and Tracts of Lands and Salt meadows whereon I now live situate in Flushing aforesd with all the appurtenances thereunto belonging or in any manner of ways appertaining Together with all my moveable Estate of what nature or kind soever it may be (Except the Bed & furniture as aforesd) and the proceed or moneys ariseing from the Sales thereof after my just Debts and funeral Charges as aforesd. bing first paid I give and dispose of in manner following Item I give and bequeath unto my aforesaid Wife Mary Cornell the Sum of one hundred pounds current lawfull money of New York free and clear to be disposed of at her discretion Item I give and bequeath unto my loving son Thomas Cornell the Sum of Two hundred pounds Current lawfull money of New York to him his heirs Exrs. Admrs. & assigns for ever Item I give and bequeath unto my loving son John Cornell the Sum of two hundred pounds Current lawfull money of New York to him his heirs Exrs. Admrs. & assigns for ever Item I give and bequeath unto my loving son Oliver Cornell the Sum of two hundred pounds Current lawfull money of New York to him his heirs Exrs. Admrs. & assigns for ever Item I give and bequeath unto my loving Daughter Margaret Cornell the Sum of one hundred pounds Current lawfull Money of New York and to her heirs Exrs. Admrs. & assigns for ever Item and all the remainder part of the moneys from the Sales as aforesaid not herein before given I give and bequeath unto my abovesaid Wife and Children as aforesd Thomas John Oliver & Margaret to be equally divided amongst them my aforesaid Wife and Children Share and Share alike and to their heirs Exrs. Admrs. & assigns for ever And I do hereby nominate and appoint my loving brother Thomas Cornell Esqr. and his son my Cousine Thomas Cornell Junr. Executors of this my last Will and Testament hereby giving and granting unto my said Executors full power and Authority to Grant Bargain Sell Convey and Asure All that my Lands and moveables as aforesaid which I have herein before ordered to be sold and that to such person or persons and his and their heirs and assigns for ever in Fee Simple by all and every such lawfull ways in the Law as to my said Executors or their Councell learned in the Law shall seem fit proper or necessary And after Sales being made as aforesaid then my Will and desire is that my sd Executors be carefull of the moneys belonging to my aforesaid Children and to put it out upon good Security that the Interest thereof of each Childs part be for the bringing them up, and to pay them as they come of Age and if either of my aforesd Children should die under Age and without Lawfull Issue then such Childs part to be equally divided among the Survivors of my Children And I do hereby revoak all former Wills and Testament by me heretofore made rattifying this and no other to be my last Will and Testament In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed my Seal the Day and Year above first written                  John Cornell                     (seal)

                Signed Sealed published and declared by the Testator as his last Will and Testament in the presence of us Benjamin Field, George Hicks, Oliver Hicks

 

Probated on 16 July 1767, and proved by Benjamin Field and George Hicks, both of said County Yeomen. Letters of Administration were granted to Mary Cornell of Queens County, Widow and Relict of John Cornell, late of said County Farmer, since the Executors named, Thomas Cornell Esquire and Thomas Cornell Junr have both departed now this Life, on 11 Aug. 1767.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from New York County Probate, Vol. 25, p. 610-613, copied from original Liber 25, p. 530-532

 

 

Will of John Cornell of Rombout, Dutchess County, Province of New York (1760) *

In the name of God Amen the thirty first day of March one thousand seven hundred and Sixty I John Cornell of Rumbout Precinct in Dutches County and Province of New York being at present under a weak and low State of health but through the great Goodness of God of a sound mind and memory and Remembering that it is Irrevocable Decreed and appointed unto me once to Die and not Knowing the day of my Departure and Dissolution out of time and that I may set in Order my House or Temporal affairs or concerns I do make and ordain this my last Will and Testament and in the first place I give and Recommend my Soul into the hands of God who gave it and my Body to the Earth to be buried in a Decent manner at the Discretion of my Executors hereafter named nothing Doubting of its Resurrection to Life at the Last day by the Almighty power of God and with Regard to such worldly things or Estate that God has been pleased to bless me with I give bequeath and Dispose of in the following manner, Imprimis My Will and Desire is that my Just debts and funeral Charges be first paid out of my Personal Estate,  Item I give and bequeath unto my beloved Wife Mary the sum of one hundred Pound New York money also all her wearing apperril  Item I give and bequeath unto my Son Mertin two hundred pounds Money of said Province and also all my Right and Interest in the Store house standing on the North River at the Fishkill Landing known by the name of Frankfords Store,  Item I give and bequeath unto my two Daughters Jane and Mary the Remainder of my Estate both Real and Personal to be Equally Devided between them Excepting what may be necessarily wanted for their bringing up and Education which I desire may be carefully performed Especially Mertain whos Education I desire may be such as will well fit and Qualify him for an apprentice in order to obtain the science or Knowledge of Physick and then to be put to some able and Skillfull Practitioner of the Profession,  Item my Will is that my Estate both Real and Personal be sold and converted into money wether before Mertin arrive to the age of twenty one years or not I submit to the Discretion of my Executors but then at furthest  Itim my Will is that my Wife with Mertin Wiltse and John Smith be Executors upon this my last Will and Testament,  In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and Seal the day and date above written.

Signed and Sealed as his last Will in Presence of

Henry Cornell                                                                                                                       John Cornell                                     (seal)

Michael Stilwill

John Couch

 

Probated on 6 June 1761, and proved by Henry Cornell and John Couch, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration granted to Mary Cornell, Martin Wiltse and John Smith, the Executors, on 10 Aug. 1761.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from New York County Probate, Vol. 23, p. 150-151, copied from original Liber 23, p. 137-138.

 

 

Will of Joshua Cornell of North Castle, Westchester County, Province of New York (1771) *

Be it Remembered that on this twenty fifth Day of January in the Year of our Lord Christ one thousand Seven hundred Seventy and one I Joshua Cornel of the West Patent of North Castle in the County of West Chester & Province of New York being of Perfect Mind and Memory thanks be Given to God and therefore calling to mind the Mortality of my Body and Knowing that is appointed for all men once to Dye Do make this my last Will and Testament Touching my Worldly Estate wherewith it hath Pleased God to bless me with in this life And Do hereby Give and Dispose of the same in the following Manner and form.

                First I Order and is my Will that all my Just and Lawfull Depts and likewise my funeral Charges be well and truly paid out of My Personal Estate.

                Item I order and it is my Will and I do Give to my loving Wife – Hannah the use of all my Estate both real and Personal for the Support and Maintenance of my said Wife and my Children Ten Years from the above Date.

                Item and after said ten years Exphired I Order all my Estate both real and Personal to be sold and that at the Discression of my Executors hereafter Mentioned.

                Item I Order and it is  my Will and I Do Give to my loving Wife Hannah Aforesaid my Watch that I now have and also the one equal third Part of all the Moneys that Shall be raised from the Sales of all my Estate Which Share Above Ordered to be Sold.

                Item I Order and it is my Will and I do give all the rest and residue of the Moneys arising from the Sales of my Estate which I have Ordered to be sold to be devided among all my Children in Manner foloing that is to say to my Sons Samuel Joshua and John twice as much as my three Daughters Charity Sarah and Phebe or my said Daughters to have half as mutch as my said three Sons always allowing my Son John to have ten Pounds Alowed him before the division be made among my said Sons and Daughters and the residue of my Estate to be devided among my Children as foloeth two thirds therof to be Equally devided among my three Sons above named and one third thereof to be Equally devided among my three Daughters Above named.

                Lastly I constitute & Appoint my two Brothers William Corneel of the Manor of Philipsburgh in the County of West chester Province of New York and John Corneell of the Township of Grenwhich in the County of Fairfield and Colony of Connecticut Executors of this my Will Whome I Do Authorise and Impower to sell and Dispose of all my Estate both real and Personal as above Ordered, And the Moneys arising from the Sales thereof I Order them my Said Executors to devide Proportion and Pay out to every Legatee as above Given and if either of my Appointed Executors die before the whole of my Estate be Settled the Survivor of them to Act as sole Executor of this my Will and I Do hereby utterly revoak and Disannul all and every Wills and Testaments made by me before this Date ratifying Confirming this and No Other to be my last Will and Testament

                                                                                                                                                Joshua Cornell                                 (seal)

Signed Sealed Published Pronounced and declared by the said Joshua Cornell to be his last Will and Testament in the Presents of these underwritten Witnesses

Benjamin Smith  John Clapp Junr  James Anderson

 

Probated on 10 Jan. 1776, and proved by Benjamin Smith of said County Farmer and James Anderson of the County Labourer, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to William Cornell and John Cornell, the Executors, on 14 May 1776.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from New York County Probate, Vol. 30, p. 184-187, copied from original Liber 30, p. 168-170.

 

 

Will of Joshua Cornell of Westport, Bristol County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1788) *

This Six Day of June Ano Dom one thousand Seven hundred and Eighty eight I Joshua Cornell of Westport in the County of Bristol and Commonwelth of the Massachusetts Being advanced in years But of a Sound Disposeing mind and memory and knowing that it is appointed for all Men once to Dye Do make and ordain this and no other to Be My last will and testament Princably and first of all I Commit my sole to GOD that gave it and as touching my Worldly Estate with which it has Pleased him to Bless me with in this life I give Demise and Dispose of in the following manner and forme Imprimis –  Viz –

my mind and will is that my Belovd Wife Lusanah Cornell Shall have the westerly Ende of my Dwelling house or the new Part from the top to the Bottom During her life or widdowhood together with the one half of all my houshold goods and indore moveables also the one half of my Loom and tackling to her and her heirs forever [?] the goods and Loom that is given Clear –

I also give unto my Said wife Eighty Pounds of good Pork and Eighty Pounds of good Beef to Be Paid unto her By my fore Sons namely Christopher Gedian Stephe and Daniel yearly and every year as long as She Lives or Remains Single to Be Paid Equell Between them fore also twelve Bushells if indin Corn and Eight Bushels of good Barly – farther my mind and will is that my Said Wife Shall let my Dafter Ruth live in the hous with her and to let her have one half of all the Provsion that I have given her as long as she Shall Remain Single I also give unto my Said wife and Daughter twenty Pounds of good wooll and twenty Pounds of good flax from the [?] and Six Cords of wood to Be Deliverd att the Door [?] Sutable length for the fier to Be Paid Equil By My fore Sons as aforesaid I also give the use and Profit of my Little ortchard standing to the Estard of my Dwelling to them two as aforesaid –

itm and I give unto my Said wife my Riding mere and womans Saddle and Bridle to her one Disposel I also give unto my wife and Daughter the Choice of my Cows at my Death = my mind is that my Son Daniel Shall Keep a hors and Cow winter and Sumer well for them two as long as they Remain Single I also give the use and Profit of my large Bible to my wife as long as She Remains Single togather with one half of the garden and Previleg in the Seller under the west Part of ofmy hous: a Previleg to the oven in the other Part to Bake when She wants also a Previleg to go to and from Bouth my wells Winter and Sumer and a Previledg to go throw the other Part of my Dwelling house into the garret I also order my four Sons Namily Christopher Gedian Stephe and Daniel to Pay there Mother Lusannah Cornell Eight Silver Dollars yearly and every year as Long as She Remains my widow to be Paid att Equil Charges [smeared] By them fore the above is to Be under stood is given in lew of my wives Rite of Dower or Power of thirds

itm – I give and Bequeth unto my Daughter Ruth Cornell the one half of my houshold goods and indooer mooveables and the one half of my Loom and tackling also the one half of my Silver Spoons and the other half to my Said wife Lusannah Cornell = I also order my fore Sons Namely Christoper gedion Stepen and Daniel to Pay unto My Said Daughter Ruth Eight Sd Dollars yearly and every year as long as She Remains Single to Be Paid at Equil Charges Between them fore I also order my fore Sons to fine ther Sister Ruthe the one half of the Provetion the flex the wooll and the wood if She Should out Live her Mother as Long as She Remains Single = I also give unto my Said Daughter my grate Bible after the deth of her mother = I also order my fore sons namely Christeper gedion Stephen and Daniel to Pay to there Sister Ruth Cornell Sixty Silver Dollars a Peace which will Be for them all to Pay two hundred and forty Dollar to Be Paid in one yeare after my Deceas

itm I give and Bequeth unto my Son Christpher Cornell all My Land that I had of Christpher giffard and lying on the westward of the hiway led to the Point with all the timber and other Stuff Belonging to me that is on the land this land is Described as follows adjoining northerly on Josept Hise westerly on the Rever Southwardly on William macomber Esterly on the Said hiway and is the land where he now lives on also one Peace of Salt medow Lying on the Ram island flat Jones Northerly on the Rever Southerly Partly on William Giffard and Partly on Eddys Salt medow = to him and his heirs and assigns forever —

itm I give and Bequeth unto my Son Gedion Cornell all the Land and Salt meddows that I Bought of Isaac Wood together with a Peace or Persell of Paster land now Belonging to my homsted farm and lying to the northward adjoining northward on Wesson Soul and Beginning at his Southwest Corner from thence Southesterly as the Wall and fence now Stand to a Brook and a watering Place from thence North Esterly until it Comm to gedions Land as the wall and fence now Stands [smeared] Prevledg that I have to Pass throw Stephen Cornells Land and Israels wood land to my tenn acer lot I give unto my Sone gedian all the above Land and Salt meddow to him and his heirs and assigns forever ~ Excepting what wood and timber is on that Paster which I gave him of from my homsted farm which I give unto my Son Daniel Cornell and to have twenty five years after my Deces to Cut and tak this timber in

itm I give unto my Son Stephen Cornell my two thirds of the farm and Bildings that I owne of that farm where he Lives or was Bought of Jonathen Sowl also the two Island that I Bought of Edward Wing that goes by the name of the Ricksons islands also one Peace or Persol of Salt Meddow lying on the Bush flat westerly on the River or Chanel Southerly on Joseph Tucker Esterly and Northerly on Abraham Cornell to him and his heirs and assignes forever –

itm I give and Bequeth unto my Son Daniel Cornell my homsted farm and the Bulding there on together with Pine Island and all the Salt medder that I havenot already given awy I also give him all the Rest and Resedue of my Estate Both Real and Personal of what kind Soever Excepting what I have already given away to him and to his heirs and assigns forever all Exceping my gates I also defer him my son to let my wife and difter have a Part of the Provetion of it should leve any on hand

itm I give and Bequeth unto my grandson Jousha Cornell Son of gidian Cornell my George foxes Jurnal

itm I Do hereby ordain Constitute and appoint my Son Stephen Cornell Sole Executor of this my last will and Testament I also give unto him my Executor all my wearing apparel together with all my Notes to anabel him to Pay all my funeral Charges and Just Debts of what Kinde Soever

I also Desire him in Love to See the Same Duly and truly according to the true intent and meaning thereof and I Do hereby make null and void all other wills or Testaments by me Before this time made Rattifying this and no other to Be my Last Will and testament in witness whereof I the Said Joshua Cornell have hereunto Set my hand and Seal the Day and Year above Ritten

Signed Seald Published Pronounced and Deliverd

by the Said Joushua Cornell to Be his Last

Will and Testament in the

Presents of us the Subscriber

George Brightman

Thomas Hicks                                                                                                                      Joshua Cornell                                 (seal)

Richard Keirby

 

Presented for probate on 7 Oct. 1788 by Stephen Cornell, the Executor, and proved by Thomas Hicks and Richard Kerby, two of the witnesses. Richard Kerby and Thomas Hix, all of Westport, yeomen, were sureties on the bond of Stephen Cornell as Executor of the last Will and Testament of Joshua Cornell, late of Westport.

 

Mr. Wesson Soule, Richard Kirby and William Macomber Joyner, all Sufficiant freeholders of Westport, were appointed to appraiser the Estate of Joshua Cornell, late of Westport, on 27 Oct. 1788. The Inventory of the Personal Estate of Joshua Cornell, late of Westport, was appraised on 12 Nov. 1788 by William Macomber, Wesson Soule and Richard Keirby. The Executor gave his oath to the inventory on 5 May 1789.

 

Westport October the 27 Day A.D 1788

Received in full of Stephen Cornell Executor to my honored fathers Joshua Cornell Last will and testament all was given me in Said Will I Say Received Per me

Richard Keirby                                                                                                                     Gideon Cornell

Wesson Sowle

 

Westport october the 26 Day A.D 1788

Received in full of Stephen Cornell Executor to my honored fathers Joshua Cornell Last Will and testament all that was given me in Said will I Say Receved Per me

Richard Keirby                                                                                                                     Daniel Cornell

Wesson Sowle

 

Westport october the 27 Day A.D 1788

Received of my Son Stephen Cornell Executor to my husband’s Josua Cornells Last Will and testament all that was given me in Said Will Excepting what I am to Receive yearly

I Say Received Per me                                                                                                       Lusannar Cornell

Wesson Soule

Richard Keirby

 

Westport october the 27 Day A.D 1788

Received in full of Stephen Cornell Executor to my honner’d fathers Last will and testament all that was given me in Said will Excepting what I am to Receive yearly I Say Receivd Per me

Wesson Sowles                                                                                                                    Ruth Cornell

Richard Kierby

 

Westport october the 27 Day 1788

Received in full of Stepen Cornell Executor to my honered father Joshua Cornell Last Will and testament all that was given me in Said will I Say Received Per me

William Macomber                                                                                                            Christopher Cornell

Daniel Cornell

 

* Transcribed with great difficulty by John A. Maltby from Bristol County Probate File “Joshua Cornell, Westport, 1788,” from FHL microfilm #0572854.

 

 

Will of Mary Cornell of Flushing, Queens County, Province of New York (1772) *

                I Mary Cornell of Flushing in Queens County and Province of New York being very sick and weak in Body but of sound mind and Memory, and knowing the uncertainty of Life and certainty of Death do make and ordain this my last Will and Testament in Manner and Form following, I recommend my soul unto God who gave it, and my Body to be buried at the Discretion of my Executors whom I shall hereafter appoint, and after all my just Debts and Funeral Charges are paid I give and dispose of my Estate in the following manner. Imprimis I do order and it is my Will that all the Estate both real and personal which did belong unto my Husband John Cornell Deceased, and whereon I have administred be disposed of and sold by my Executors as they shall judge most proper, and the Debts to be all paid as soon as it can be conveniently done, and as to what was left me by my Husband aforesaid I give and dispose of the same as follows. I give and bequeath unto my beloved Daughter Mary Cornell my Mahogony Tea Table and Tea board and all my wearing apparel and likewise the one equal half of what sum or sums of Money which was given to me by my aforesaid husband John Cornell, and I do give and bequeath unto my beloved Daughter Ann Cornell my feather bed with all the Furniture belonging to it and likewise the other equal half of what Money was left to me as aforesaid, the Money to be paid to the aforesaid Mary Cornell and Ann Cornell by my Executors when they shall arrive to the Age of Eighteen years, but if Mary Cornell or Ann Cornell should die before they come to the Age of Eighteen as aforesaid, then the surviving one of the aforesaid Daughters to have the whole of what was given to both, and Lastly I nominate and appoint my beloved son Thomas Cornell, and John Field Junr. and Somerset Lawrence, all of Flushing aforesaid to be my Executors of this my last Will and Testament.

                In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my Hand and Seal this sixteenth Day of May in the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and seventy two.

                                                                                                                                                Mary Cornell                                    (seal)

                Signed and sealed in presence of Ezekiel Row, Caleb Valentine, Nathaniel Tom Junr

 

Probated on 13 June 1772, and proved by Ezekiel Roe and Nathaniel Tom Junr., of said County Yeomen, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration granted to John Feild Junr. and Somerset Lawrence, two of the Executors, on 29 Oct. 1772.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from New York County Probate, Vol. 28, p. 426-428, copied from original Liber 28, p. 324-325.

 

 

Will of Phebe Cornell of Flushing, Queens County, Province of New York (1786) *

Know all men by these presents that I Phebe Cornell Widow of Richard Cornell late of the Township of Flushing in Queens County & State of New York, residing at present in New York, being in a weak State of Body, but of sound mind memory & Understanding, considering the uncertainty of this Life, & the certainty of Death Do therefore make my Will & Testament in manner following Viz. First I order all my just Debts & funeral charges to be paid – Secondly I give & Devise unto my Grand Daughter Mary Pell the sum of Twenty Pounds, to be put out at Interest for her use by my Executors, & paid to her when she arrives of lawfull age. Thirdly I give unto my Daughter Anne Cornell my Clock & easy Chair. Fourthly I give all the rest of my moveable Estate except my Cash Notes & Bonds, to my two Daughters Phebe Pearsall & Ann Cornell & their Heirs, to be divided equally between share & share alike– Fifthly I give unto my Son Charles Cornell and his Heirs, the Sum of Two hundred pounds, to be paid him out of my Lands, as soon as they can be conveniently sold; out of the above sum is to be deducted whatever sum he may be indebted to me. Sixthly I give & devise all the residue of my Estate both real and Personal, in manner & form following Viz. one equal third part to my Daughter Phebe Pearsall & her Heirs, one equal third part I give & devise unto the three Sons of my Daughter Anne Cornell viz Joseph Thomas & Samuel & the Survivors & Survivor of them, to be equally divided between them & I hereby order my Executors or the Survivor to put their Shares out at Interest or purchase some real Estate, for their use & benefit, & to sell the same if they think it necessary, & either to divide or sell the same when the youngest Son arrives of Age & pay them respectively their Shares  Seventhly I give & Devise the remaining third part of my Estate to my Grand Daughter Mary Pell & I hereby order my Executors or Executor to put her Share out at Interest or purchase some real Estate for her use & benefit which ever they may think best, with liberty to sell the same & invest it in other real property as they think most for her Interest– one half of which I order my Executors to pay her as soon as they can after She arrives of lawfull Age or marries, the other half to be paid her in seven years afterwards, or sooner if my Executors think proper – But if my Grand Daughter should Die under age & leave no lawfull Issue, I then give one equal half of what I have bequeathed unto her, to my Daughter Phebe Pearsall & her Heirs, the other equal of what I have bequeathed unto her, I give unto my three Grand Sons, Joseph Thomas & Samuel Cornell subject to the same conditions of letting the money out at Interest or investing into real Estate, & selling it again, & investing it in other real property, & their Shares to be paid to them equally when the youngest arrives of Age– And I hereby nominate my son in Law Thomas Pearsall, my Son Charles Cornell, & my Daughter Phebe Pearsall to be Executors of this my last Will, & I hereby order them or any two of them to sell my lands & Meadows as soon as convenient after my Decease that a division of my Estate may be made & if there should be but one Executor living before my Estate should be sold, that one shall have full power to sell the same, if done with the consent of my Daughter Anne Cornell given under her hand in Writing and I hereby revoke all former Wills by me made & declare this to be my last Will & Testament.
In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand & seal this second Day of May one thousand seven hundred and eighty six.                   Phebe Cornell                   (seal)

Signed Sealed Published & Declared by the said Phebe Cornell as & for her last will & Testament in the Presence of us who subscribed our names as witnesses thereto– Robert Townsend Henry Mitchell Rudolphus Bogert

 

Probated on 18 June 1787, and proved by Rudolphus Bogert of the said County writing Clerk, one of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Thomas Pearsall, one of the Executors.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from New York County Probate, Vol. 40, p. 11-14, copied from original Liber 40, p. 12-15.

 

 

Will of Richard Cornell of Rockaway, Hempstead, Queens County, Province of New York (1723) *

In the Name of God Amen I Richard Cornell of Rockway in the bounds of Hempstead in Queens County on Nassau Island in the Collony of New York Yeoman being Very Sick and Weak in body but of Sound Mind and Memory thanks be given to Almighty God for the same therefore Calling to mind the Mortality of My Body and Knowing that it is Appointed for all Men once to dye Do Make and Ordain this to be My Last Will and Testament principaly and first of all I give and Recommend my Soul into the hands of Almighty God who gave it hoping thro the Death and merrits of my dear Redeemer to have forgiveness of all My Sins past And to Inherit Everlasting Life after death My Body I Commit to the Earth from whence it came to be Buried in a Christian Like and decent manner at the Discretion of my Executors hereafter named Nothing Doubting but at the General Resurrection I shall receive the Same Again by the Mighty power of God and touching Such Worldly Estate that it hath pleased God to bless me in this Life I give Devise and Dispose of the Same in manner and form following Imprimis it is my Will and desire the my funeral Charges and Just Debts be well and faithfully be paid and Discharged for the doing of Which I do order my Executors hereafter named to Sell and Dispose of So Much of my personal Estate as will Satisfie the same  Item I give and bequeath to My Welbeloved Wife Hannah Cornel the one Equal third part of My personal Estate and also the whole farm whereon I now live during her Widowhood And no longer for the bringing up of our Children and Not otherwise I do give to my said Beloved Wife the Sum of fifty pounds Current Money of New York to be paid her within one Year after her Second Marriage in Lieu of her dower which by Law shee is Intitutled thereunto and Not otherwise to be and remain to My said and to her heirs and Assignes forever  Item I give and bequeath to My Son Richard Cornel all the farm and Plantation whereon I now Live as also all my Meadow ground Lyon rock Neck in the Township of Hempstead aforesaid to be and remain to my aforesaid Son and to his heirs Male forever  Item I do give and bequeath to My aforesaid Son Richard Cornell Twenty pounds Current Money of New York to be paid by My Executors hereafter Named out of My personal Estate when he shall arrive at the Age of Twenty one Years  Item I give and bequeath to my younger Son Cornelius Cornell the other two thirds of my personal Estate Excepting the Twenty pounds which I have already given to my Son Richard to be and remain to My Aforesaid Son Cornelius and to his heirs and Assigns forever  Item it is my Will and Desire that the two thirds of my Personal Estate Which I have given to My Son Cornelius be within Six Months after my decease be Sold by my Executors And the Moneys Arising therefrom be put and Keept at use till he shall arive at the Age of Twenty one Years  Item it is also My Will and desire that the farm or plantation wherein I now Live that is to Say after My wifes Second Marriage be Let out to the best Advantage by my Executors as aforesaid for the bringing up of my two Children and the overplus if any be to be and Remain to My Son Richard Cornel And Lastly I do hereby Nominate Constitute And Appoint My Welbeloved Wife Hannah Cornell and my Honoured father William Cornell and My honoured father in Law John Van Wyck My Whole and Sole Executors of this My Last Will and Testament or the Major part of them and I do hereby utterly disalow and Disanul all and Every other former Wills and Testaments by me at any time heretofore made or Executed Allowing this and no other to be my Last Will And Testament  In Witness Whereof I have put to my hand and Seal this Ninth day of April in the Ninth Year of the Reign Of our Sovereign Lord George by the grace over great Britain france and Ireland King Defender of the faith &c And in the Year of our Lord God One Thousand seven hundred and Twenty three

                                                                                                                                                Richard Cornell                               (seal)

Signed Sealed published pronounced and Declared by the said Richard Cornell to be his Last Will and Testament in presents of us the Subscribers

Ebenezer Warner

John Cornell

T. Whitehead

 

Probated on 25 Mar. 1724, and Letters of Administration granted to Hannah Cornell, William Cornell, and John Van Wyck, the Executrix and Executors.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from New York County Probate, Vol. 9, p. 525-527, copied from original Liber 9, p. 452-454.

 

 

Will of Richard Cornell of Dartmouth, County of Bristol, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1761) *

  This Eighteenth Day of February AD: One Thousand Seven Hundred & Sixty one. I Richard Cornell of Dartmouth in the County of Bristol in the Province of the Massachusetts Bay In New England Yeoman, being at this Present time Very weak in Body, but of a Sound Disposing Mind and Memory, Thought best to Make this My Last will and Testament, and as to my Worldly Estate Whare with God hath been Pleassd to Bless Me in this Life I Give Devise and Despose of the Same in the Following Manner & Form –(viz.) –

Imprimis My Will is that all My Just Debts Funiral Charges and Just Expences of all Sorts with Respect to Setling my Estate Should be all paid in Seasonable Time Next after My Decease by My Executor Here after Named out of My Live Stock

Item I Give to My Loving Wife Content Cornel ye: use and Improvement of all My Estate to be Improved by her During the Time She Remains My widow; Excepting what thereof I Shall Perticularly In this My Will Otherwise Despose of, all which I give to my said wife in lue of her Right of Dowry in my Estate

Item I Give to My Son Ezekell Cornell & to his Heirs & Assigns for Ever, all the West End of My Homesteed Farm to a Cross Stone wall about fourteen rods to the Eastward of My Said Son Ezekell Cornels Now Dwelling House I also Give to My Son Ezekell Cornell the Priviledge of a way through My Land Down to the Highway whare it will be Most Conveniet and Least Damage Sufficient for Cart and Oxen to Pass to Him his Heirs & Assigns for Ever. Furthermore My Will is that My Son Ezekell Cornell Come Into the Possession of what I Have Above Bequeathed to him Emediately after my Decease – Excepting what Priviledge I Shall give to My Said Wife out of Said Bequest above Said –

Furthermore I Give to My Said Wife Content the Priviledge of Keeping One pair of Oxen or equivalent in other Cattle kind in the Swamp Pasture (So Called) as also the Priviledge of Getting fire wood Sufficient for one fire During the time of her Natural Life or widowhood: which above Said Priviledge I Give to my Said wife out of what I Have In this My Will Given to My Son Ezekell Cornell –

Item I Give & Bequeth to My Two Sons Namly Richard Cornel & Gideon Cornel all the Rest of My Homesteed Farm to be Equally Divided Between them & to their Heirs & Assigns for ever

Item I also give to My son Gideon Cornel all my Salt Medow to him & His Heirs & assigns for Ever: –

Item I Give & Bequeath to My three Sons Namely Ezekel Cornel Richard Cornel & Gideon Cornel all My Farming Utentials also all My Carpenters tooles Excepting My Broad Ax which I give to My Son Gideon Cornell, to be Equally Divided Among My Above Said three Sons –

Item Moreover I Also give & Bequeath unto My Two Sons Richard Cornel & Gideon Cornell all My Live Stock togeather with all My Hay and Corn & Meet that Shall Remain at the Decease of My Said Wife or Marrage to be Equally divided Between them

Item I Give unto My Son Ezekell Cornel my Gun –

Item I Give to My Son Richard Cornel My Largest Bible –

Item I Give & Bequeath to My Son Philip Cornel and My Daughter Patience Tripp all the Rest & Resedue of My Estate that Shall Remain after the Decease of My Wife or her Marrage: In Manner Following; that is to Say, One Third Part to My Said Son Philip Cornell & the other two Third Parts to My Daughter Patience Tripp –

Item I Do Hereby appoint My Said Son Ezekell Cornell Sole Executor of this My Last Will & Testament hereby Making Void all Other Wills & Testaments by Me before this Time Made Confirming this and No other to be My Last Will and Testament, In Witness whare of I the Said Richard Cornell have hereunto Set My Hand & Seal the Day & Date afore Said –

Singnd, Seald, Published

Pronouncd, and Declard,

by the Said Richard Cornel

as his Last Will and Testament

In the Presence of us the Subscribers

Benjamin Tripp                                                                                                                    Richard Cornel                                (seal)

Nathanael Tripp

Benja. Akin

 

Proved on 7 July 1761 by Benjamin Trip and Nathanal Trip, two of the witnesses.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Bristol County Probate File “Richard Cornell, Dartmouth, 1764,” from FHL microfilm #0572854.

 

 

Will of Richard Cornell of Flushing, Queens County, Province of New York (1774) *

KNOW ALL MEN by these presents that I Richard Cornell of the Township of Flushing in Queens County on Nassau Island in the Province of New York Yeoman being at present in tolerable good health and of sound and disposing Mind Memory and understanding do make my Last Will and Testament in manner and form following  First my Will is that my Debts and Funeral charges be paid in some convenient time after my Decease out of my personal Estate Secondly I give and devise unto my Son Charles and unto his heirs and Assigns for ever the house where he now lives and ten Acres of Land in a square piece about the same and one equal undivided half part of all the rest of my Lands Meadows and Real Estate whatsoever and wheresoever except the House where I now live and ten Acres of Land about the same herein After given to my Wife and Daughters  I also give to my said son Charles my Negro boy named Cesar, one Waggon one Plow one Harrow one Wood Sled my black horse and my bald Mare and one half part of the Boat at South and one third part of the Grain that may be growing on the ground at the time of my Death  I also give to my Said Son Charles my Shoe buckles and all my Wearing Apparel except one double Gown and one pair of Gold Sleeve Buttons which I give unto my said Wife and my Will is that my said Son Charles shall have the use of one half part of the Barn where I now live for two years After my Decease Thirdly I give and devise unto my said Wife and to my three Daughters to Wit Phebe Anne and Mary and to their heirs and Assigns for ever the House Out Houses and Barn where I now live and ten Acres of Land in a square Piece about the same and the other equal undivided half part of All the rest of my Lands Meadows and Real Estate whatsoever and wheresoever equally to be divided between them as Tenants in common but subject to the Priviledge above given to my said Son in the said Barn and my Will also is that if my said Wife should die before me then the part of my said House out houses and Barn where I now live and of the said ten Acres of Land about the same above devised to her shall go to my said Daughters and to their heirs and Assigns for ever as Tenants in Common equally to be divided between them and the part of the Residue of my said Lands Meadows and Real Estate above devised to her shall go to my said Son and Daughters and to their heirs and Assigns for ever as Tenants in common Equally to be divided between them And if my Said Wife survives me and should remarry then my Will and desire is that She shall before such Remarriage dispose of and convey the part of my said House Out Houses Barn Lands Meadows and Real Estate above devised to her to or among such of my said Children or their Issue and in such manner as she shall think proper but in case She makes no Disposition thereof as aforesaid then the same or such part thereof as shall not be disposed of as aforesaid shall upon her Remarriage to the same Persons and in the same manner as the same would have gone by this my Will if She had died before me Fourthly I give and bequeath unto my said Wife and Daughters All the rest of my personal Estate equally to be divided between them Share and Share alike And my Will is that if my said Son Charles should die before me and leave a child or children then the part of my said Estate herein before devised to my said Son Charles shall go to such Child or Children and to his her and their heirs and Assigns for ever equally to be divided between them if more than one and if but one that one to take the whole And if any or either of my said Daughters should die before me and leave a child or children then the part of my Estate herein before devised to such Daughter or Daughters so dying shall go to the respective Child and Children of such respective Daughter or Daughters so dying and to his her and their heirs and assigns for ever equally to be divided between them if more than one and if but one that one to take the whole of his or her Mothers part and if any or either of my said Children should die before me and leave no Issue then the part of my Estate herein before given to such of my said Children so dying except the Part of my said House Out Houses and ten Acres of Land about the same above given to my said Wife and Daughters shall go to the Survivors of my said Children as may die before me leaving Issue always to stand in the place of and take such share as his her or their parents would have been entitled to if living equally to be divided between them if more than one and if but one that one to take the whole of his or her Parents share and if any or either of my Said Daughters should die before me and leave no Issue then the part of such of my said Daughters so dying in the said House Out Houses Barn and ten Acres of Land about the same above given to my said Wife and Daughters shall go to the Survivors of my said Daughters and to their heirs and assigns for ever as Tenants in common equally to be divided between them The Child and Children of such of my said Daughters as may die before me leaving Issue always to stand in the place of and take such Share as his her or their Mother would have been entitled to if living equally to be divided between them if more than one and if but one that one to take the whole of his or her Mothers Share And in Case any or either of my said Children should die before me leaving Issue then and in such Case I hereby Authorize and impower my Executors and the Survivors of them to sell the part and parts of my said Estate herein before given to such of my said Children so dying and to put and place the money arising by such Sale out at Interest on good Security for the benefit of the respective Issue or such of my said Children so dying and in order that there May be a Division of my said Real Estate according to this my Will I do hereby Authorize and empower my said Executors and the Survivors of them to make a Division thereof and to Sell the Same or any part Share or proportion thereof for that purpose if they think proper and I hereby declare that what I have herein before given to my said Wife is in bar of her Right of Dower and that the money and effects which my said Daughter Phebe has already received of me shall be deducted out of her part of my said Estate and that whatever Monies or effects I shall here after give to either of My said Daughters shall be deducted out of their respective parts of my Estate And I hereby Appoint my said Wife and my said Son Charles and my said three Daughters and my son in Law Thomas Pearsall Executors of this my last Will and Testament and I hereby Revoke All former and other Wills by me made and Declare this and none other to be my last Will and Testament In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand & Seal the thirtyeth day of March in the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and seventy four.

                                                                                                                                                Richard Cornell                (seal)

Signed Sealed Published and declared by the said Richard Cornell As & for his last Will & Testament in the Presence of Us who Subscribed our Names as Witnesses thereto at his request in his presence and in the presence of each other

William Thorne

Martha Thorne

Benjamin Doughty Junr.

 

Probated on 25 Apr. 1775, and proved by William Thorne and Benjamin Doughty Junr., both of said County Yeomen. Letter of Administration granted to Phebe Cornell, Mary Cornell, and Thomas Pearsall, three of the Executors, on 17 May 1775.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from New York County Probate, Vol. 29, p. 504-508, copied from original Liber 29, p. 459-463.

 

 

Will of Richard Cornell of Rockaway, Hempstead, Queens County, Province of New York (1777) *

I Richard Cornell of Rockaway in the Township of Hempstead in Queens County and Province of New York being but Weak in Body but of perfect Understanding and Memory blessed by Almighty God for it, but knowing it is appointed for all men to Die think it Convenient to Settle and dispose of the Estate it hath pleased almighty God to bless me with and in order thereunto I do make Constitute and appoint this my last Will and Testament in Manner and form following, that is to say first of all My Just Debts and funeral Charges to be paid and in order thereunto I do give My Exers hereafter named full power Lawfull and Absulute Authority to sell and dispose of any part of my Estate for as much as will pay all my Debts if they shall think Convenient  Item I give and bequeath all my Estate Real and personal after my Debts is paid to my Well beloved Wife Deboron Cornell and my two Sons and three Daughters, Richard Cornell Benjamin Cornell Margaret Smith the wife of Peter Smith Hannah Cornell and Mary Cornell, they being obliged to give my Daughter Phebe Cornell a good Maintenance during her life share and share alike equally amongst them to them and their Heirs and Assigns forever  I do Appoint my well beloved son Benjamin Cornell and my well beloved Son in Law Peter Smith and my well beloved Cousin Cornelius Van Wyck My Executors to this My Last Will and Testament revoking and disanuling all wills heretofore by me made  In Witness hereof I do set my hand and Seal this Fifteenth day of July in the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and Seventy seven. ~/:~

                                                                                                                                                Richd Cornell                                    (seal)

Signed Sealed published and Declared to be his last Will and Testament in presents of ~/:~

                                                                                                                                                Stephen Mott

                                                                                                                                                Wm Van Wyck

                                                                                                                                                Theods Van Wyck

 

Probated on 1 Oct. 1778, and proved by William Van Wyck and Theodorus Van Wyck, both of the said County Yeoman. Letters of Administration granted to Benjamin Cornell and Peter Smith, two of the Executors, on 15 May 1778.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from New York County Probate, Vol. 32, p. 354-356, copied from original Liber 32, p. 257-258.

 

 

Will of Ruth Cornell of Swansea, Bristol County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1805) *

In the Name of God Amen the twenty six day of september one thousand Eight hundred and five I Ruth Cornell of Swansey in the County of Bristol in the Common Wealth of Massachusetts Bay in New Ingland Yeoman Being Sick and weak in Body but in perfect mind and memory Thanks be given to God for the Same therefore Calling to mind the mortality of my body and knowing that it is appointed for all men once to die do make and ordain this my last will and testament that is to Say Principally and first of all I Give and Recommend my Soul into the hands of God that Gave it and my body I Recommend to the Earth to be buried in Decent christian Burial at the discretion of my Executor hereafter named Nothing Doubting but at the General Resurrection I shall receive the same again by the mighty power of God and as touching such worldly Estate wherewith it hath pleased God to bless me in this life I give and Dispose of it in the following manner and form

imprimis I give an bequeath unto my loveing brother Elisha Cornell twenty dollars to be paid him by my Executrix at the expiration of one year after my Decease

Item Give and bequeath to my loveing Nephews Ezra Cornell and Elijah Cornell Each five dollers to be paid them by my Executrix at the expiration of one year after my Decease

Item I give and bequeath to my beloved Nece Martha Cornel daughter of my beloved Brother Stephen Cornell all the Remainder of my estate wheresoever it may be found to her and her heirs and assigns forever

And I Likewise Constitute my beloved Nece Martha Cornell to be my Sole Executrix of this my Last will and testament and that all my Debts And funeral Charges be paid by my Executrix and I do hereby utterly Disallow Revoke and disannul all and every other testament will Legacys and bequeathes Executrix by me in way before and willed and bequeathed ratified and Confirmed this and no other to be my last will and testament in witness where of I here unto Set my hand and Seal the day and year above written

Signed Sealed Published Pronounced and Declared By the said Ruth Cornell as her Last will and Testament in presence of us the Subscribers

Childs Luther                                                                                                                       Ruth Cornell                                      (seal)

Stephen Cornell

Marcy Kelton

                                                                                                                                Novr 5th. 1805 approved

 

The last Will and Testament of Ruth Cornell late of Swansey, Singlewoman, was presented for probate on 5 Nov. 1805 by Martha Cornell the Executrix, and proved by Childs Luther and Stephen Cornell, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Martha Cornell, Singlewoman, the before named Executrix, with Childs Luther, Yeoman, and Stephen Cornell, Yeoman, all of Swansey, as sureties.

No inventory of her estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Bristol County Probate File “Ruth Cornell, Swansey, 1805,” from FHL microfilm #0572854.

 

 

Will of Samuel Cornell of Flushing, Queens County, Province of New York (1738) *

In the name of God Amen the twelfth day of July in the year of our Lord Christ one thousand Seven hundred and thirty eight I Samuel Cornell of Flushing in Queens County on the Island of Nassau in the Colony of New York Yeoman being Sick and very weak in Body but of perfect mind and memory thanks be given unto God therefore calling unto mind the Mortality of my Body and knowing that it is appointed for all men once to Die do make and ordain this my last Will and Testament that is to say Principally & first of all I give and Recommend my Soul into the hands of God that gave it and for my Body I Recommend it to the Earth to be buried in a Christian like and decent manner at the Discretion of my Executors hereafter named nothing doubting but at the General Resurrection I shall receive the same again by the mighty Power of God and as touching such Worldly Estate where with it hath pleased God to Bless me within this Life I give devise and dispose of the same in the following manner and form  Item my Will is that first of all my Just and due debts with funeral Charges shall be Justly paid out of my Personal Estate,  Item I give and bequeath to my welbeloved Daughter Meriam Cornell the Sum of one hundred pounds to be paid out of my Personal Estate by my Executors when she shall arive to the age of Eighteen years or at her Marriage Provided she doth marry before she shall be to that age,  Item I give and bequeath to my welbeloved Daughter Sarah Cornell the sum of one hundred Pounds to be paid out of my Personal Estate by my Executors when she shall arive to the age of Eighteen years or at her Marriage, Provided she doth marry before she shall arive to that age,  Item I give and bequeath to my welbeloved Daughter Debora Cornell the sum of one hundred Pounds to be paid out of my Personal Estate by my Executors when she shall arive to the age of Eighteen years or at her Marriage provided she doth marry before she shall arive to that age, Item my Will is that provided that it should please God that either of my aforesaid Daughters should Die before they shall arive to the age of Eighteen years or marry that then their part or Legacy shall be equally divided to she or they that shall remain alive  Item my Will is that provided it should please God that my Wife Anno Cornell should be with Child before my Death and it should be a Daughter then I give and bequeath to the said Child the sum of one hundred Pound to be paid out of my Personal Estate by my Executors when she shall arive to the age of Eighteen years,  Item I give and bequeath to Anno Cornell my Dearly beloved Wife all my houshold Goods and Chattels that is all my Personal Estate that I have not herebefore given & bequeathed together with the said one hundred pounds that is provided she should not be with Child with a Daughter in lieu of her Dowry or third of my Personal Estate  Item my Will is that my Negro man named Jack shall be to my said Wife so long as she doth continue my Widow but provided she should Marry then the said Negro be to live with either of my Children whom he shall choose,  Item my Will is and I do hereby Order that my dearly beloved Wife Anno shall have the whole use and benefit of all my Lands Meadows Land Housings Barns Orchards Tenements and appurtenances in any manner belonging unto me so long till my Son Joseph Cornell doth arive to the age of twenty one years together with the equal three quarter parts of the said Lands Meadows Housings Barns Orchards Tenements and Appurtenances after my said Son Joseph doth arive to the age of twenty one years till my Son George Cornell doth arive to the said age of twenty one years,  Item my Will is and I do hereby order and impower my Executors hereafter named with as good Power & Authority as I myself in my Life time could have had to Sell convey and dispose of all my Lands Meadows Housings Barns Orchards Tenements and Appurtenances in any manner of ways belonging unto me provided my said Executors do think fit in their Discretion when my said Son George Cornell doth arive to the Age of twenty one years,  Item my Will is and I do hereby order that provided my said Executors do not sell my said Lands & Tenements when my said Son George doth arive at the age of twenty one years that then my Son Joseph shall have the use and benefit of one equal quarter part of all my Lands Meadows Housings Barns Orchards Tenements and appurtenances till the said premises be sold and also my Son George Cornell shall have the use and benefit of one equal Quarter part of all my said Lands Meadows Tenements and appurtenances also till the said premises be sold,  Item my Will is and I do order that my said Wife Anno Cornell shall have the use and benefit of the one equal half of all my Lands Meadows Housings Tenements and appurtenances so long till my Son Samuel Cornell doth arive to the age of twenty one years and then my said Son Samuel shall have the use & benefit of the equal quarter part of all my said Lands Meadows Tenements and appurtenances till my said Son Charles Cornell doth arive to the age of twenty one years and my said Wife Anno the other equal quarter part for the Support & bringing up of my Children in Lieu of her Dowry or thirds of my said Lands and Tenements,  Item my Will is that the Timber on my aforesaid Lands shall not be embezled nor made use of in any ways otherwise than for the necessary uses on said Farm,  Item my Will is and I do hereby order that provided my said Executors do sell and dispose of my aforesaid Lands and Tenements before my said Son Charles doth arive to the age of twenty one years that then the Sum or Sums of money sold for shall be disposed of as followeth that is one equal quarter part to be paid to my said Son Joseph Cornell and one equal quarter part to be paid to my aforesaid Son George Cornell as it shall become due and one equal quarter part to be paid to my aforesaid Son Samuel Cornell when he shall arive to the age of twenty one years and the other equal quarter part to be paid to my afore said Son Charles Cornell when he shall arive to the age of twenty one years,  Item my Will is and I do further impower my said Executors that provided my said Executors do think it will be to the greater advantage and benefit of my afore said two Sons Samuel and Charles to purchase and buy any Lands elsewhere which the said Money that is above ordered by me to be paid unto them that then my said Sons shall except of said Lands so purchased and bought to them their heirs and assigns for ever in lieu and stead of said money,  Item my Will is and I do hereby order that provided my dearly beloved Wife Anno Cornell should be with Child with a Son or Sons before my Death that then the Son or Sons he or they shall have & be paid by my Executors he or their equal part & proportion with my other aforesaid four Sons Joseph, George, Samuel and Charles,  Item my Will is and I do hereby order that provided my said Executors do purchase and buy Land or Lands for my said Sons Samuel and Charles that then my said Wife shall the use & benefit thereof till he or they shall arive to Lawfull age but provided they the said Executors do not purchase and buy Land or Lands that then my aforesaid Wife Anno shall have the Interest of the said money that is to be paid to them for their maintainance till he or they shall arive to Lawfull age,  Item my Will is and I do hereby Order that provided it shall please God that either of my Sons shall Die before he or they do arive to Lawfull age leaving no Lawfull Issue that then he or their part as above given to him or them shall be equally divided among they that do remain alive but provided he or they do leave Lawfull Issue that then he or their Issue shall possess have and enjoy that part or the sum that he or they should have had and enjoyed,  Item my Will is and I do hereby Order that provided my aforesaid dearly beloved Wife shall be and remain my Widow at the time that my aforesaid Son Charles Cornell doth arive to the age of twenty one years that then my aforesaid Sons shall pay to my aforesaid Wife Anno in each and every of their equal proportion the sum of eighty pounds in the whole toward her future Support and maintainance,  Item my Will is and I do hereby order that provided my aforesaid Wife shall marry before my aforesaid Son Charles Cornell doth arive to the age of twenty one years that then at her marriage she shall not have the use nor benefit any longer of neither Real nor Personal Estate for her Support nor for the Support nor maintainance of any of my aforesaid Children but that the use of my Real and Personal Estate shall be made use of and appropriated by my Executors toward the Support and bringing up of my said Children it is to be understood to be that part of benefit and Interest that I have ordered and given to my aforesaid Wife for that purpose,  Lastly I constitute make and appoint my Dearly beloved Wife Executrix with my loving Son Joseph Cornell & my Friend Richard Everit of Jamaica Executors of this my last Will and Testament Containing part of four Sheets of Paper by them or any two of them to be performed and done in all things whatsoever by them according as I have herein Willed Ordered and bequeathed and I do hereby utterly disallow revoke and disanull all and every other former Testaments Wills & Legacies and Execrs. by me in any ways before this time named Willed and bequeathed ratifying and Confirming this and no other to be my last Will and Testament.  In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and Seal the day and year above written.

Memorandum that there was interlined before the signing Sealing Pronouncing and Declareing hereof in eighth line the word Pounds in the fifty sixth line the word ways in the fifty eighth line the word of in the Seventy first line the word provided in the one hundred and first line the Word Wife in the hundred fourth line the Word Sons.

                                                                                                                                                Samuel Cornell                (seal)

Signed Sealed Published Pronounced & Declared by the said Samuel Cornell as his last Will & Testament in the presence of us the Subscribers Vizt.

Samuel Thorne

Richd. Cornell Junr.

James Cornell

 

Letters of Administration granted to Anno Cornell, Joseph Cornell and Richard Everit, the Executrix & Executors, on 29 July 1739.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from New York County Probate, Vol. 13, p. 341-347, copied from original Liber 13, p. 277-282.

 

 

Will of Samuel Cornell of Flushing, Queens County, Province of New York (1768) *

In the Name of God Amen I Samuel Cornell of Flushing in Queens County and Province of New York being weak in Body but of sound memory (God be blessed) doe this Sixth day of April in the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and sixty Eight make and ordain this my last Will and Testament in manner following Vizt. Imprimis I will and order that all my Just Debts and funerall Charges be paid and discharged by my Executors hereafter named Item I give and bequeath unto my dear Wife Hannah Cornell the sum of five hundred pounds Currt. Lawfull money of New York also my Negroes Pompey and Beller and a little Boy called Charles also all my Household Goods or furniture likewise Firewood and what provisions may be necessary for her use my riding Chair, Horse and four Cows with Keeping for the same also the use of my Kitchen and best room of my House Item I give and bequeath unto my three grand daughters Mary Hannah and Abigail Sands the sum of one hundred pounds a piece lawfull money aforsaid to be paid them by my Executors five years next after my decease but in case either or any of them die before then the Surviving Sister or sisters to have what was designed for the deceased also I give to said grand Daughter Abigail my silver Tankard Item I give and bequeath unto my two grand sons Comfort Cornell and Samuel Cornell their heirs and assigns forever the farm I bought of Samuel Rodman whereon I now live containing about two hundred Acres of Land with all the Buildings Hereditaments and appurtenances thereunto belonging also my salt and fresh meadow the whole Situate in Flushing aforesaid, I also give them one hundred pounds a piece to be paid them five years next after my Decease Item I give and bequeath unto my son Barak Cornell the sum of five hundred pounds Currt. money aforesaid to be paid him at the Expiration of five years next after my Decease Item I will and order that my Negroes called Jacob and Dip be disposed of but that they may have the privilege of choosing their masters Item I will and order that all my Stock Goods and Chattels not heretofore given be sold at publick vendue and the moneys arising from the Sale thereof be put out at Interest and that at the expiration of five years next after my Decease, after all the aforesaid Legacies are paid then the remainder and residue of all my personal Estate whatsoever I give unto my said Son Barak Cornell and in order that this my last Will and Testament be punctually complyed with I doe here nominate ordain and appoint my said dear wife Hannah Cornell to be my Executrix and my Brothers in law John Carman & Joshua Carman Executors of this my last Will and Testament revoking all others heretofore made in Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed my Seal the Day and year above Written

                                                                                                                                                Samuel Cornell                (seal)

Signed Sealed published & declared by the Testator as his last Will & Testament in the Presence of

T. Hicks

James Areson

Chas. Hicks

 

Probated on 18 May 1768, and proved by Thomas Hicks and James Areson of said County Yeomen. Letters of Administration granted to Hannah Cornell, the Executrix, on 15 June 1768.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from New York County Probate, Vol. 26, p. 352-354, copied from original Liber 26, p. 299-301.

 

 

Will of Sarah Cornell of Hempstead, Queens County, Province of New York (1765) *

In the Name of God Amen I Sarah Cornell of Hempstead in Queens County in the Province of New York being now well in health and of good and perfect sound mind and Disposing memory and considering the incertainty of this transitory Life do make this my last Will and Testament as followeth that is to say First I do hereby given and bequeath unto my Son Thomas Cornell five Pounds New York Money and to his Assigns then I do hereby impower my Executors which are hereafter named or the survivors of them to retain in their hands as much Money out of my Estate as will Purchase the several half Dozens of Silver Table Spoons which are hereafter mentioned and given unto my Grand Daughters which are hereafter named (Vizt) Item I do hereby give and bequeath unto each of My Grand Daughters which are hereafter named a half a Dozen Silver Table Spoons (Vizt) Mary Walters Elizabeth Walters and Hannah Walters Children of my Daughter Sarah Walters and unto my Grand Daughters Sarah Talman and Phebey Talman Children of my Daughter Phebey Talman unto my Grand Daughters Sarah Thorne Mary Thorne and Children of my Daughter Martha Thorne and unto my Grand Daughters Phebey Tredwell and Sarah Tredwell Children of my Daughter Peggy Tredwell to them and to each of their respective heirs and Assigns for Ever then all the residue and remaining part of all my Estate after paying my just Debts and Legacys which are above mentioned I do hereby give and bequeath unto my four Daughters Vizt Sarah Walters Phebe Talman Martha Thorne and Peggy Tredwell and to each of their several and respective Representatives to be equally Divided between my said four Daughters Share and Share alike to them and to each of their respective Heirs and Assigns forEver and in case either of my said Daughters Should happen to Dye before they should be intitled to or receive their Share or Shares of the Legacys which are above mentioned that then I do here give and bequeath any such Part or parts where any such Death should happen unto all such of their Children respectively to be equally Divided between them share and share alike to them and to each of their Heirs and Assigns forEver and I Do hereby make and Ordain my loveing and trusty friends Valentine Hewlet Peters Esqr Captain Jacob Mott and my brother Samuel Doughty to be my true and lawfull Executors of this my last will and Testament revoking all former and other wills or Testaments by me heretofore made or Declared I Witness whereof the said Sarah Cornell hath hereunto sett her hand and seal the fifteenth Day of May in the Year of Our Lord Seventeen hundred and sixty five

                                                                                                                                                Sarah Cornell                                   (seal)

Signed Sealed published pronounced and Declared by the said Sarah Cornel to be her last Will and Testament in presence of us who were her Witnesses Memdm that the word or Name (& Sarah Tredwell) between the fourteen & fifteenth Line from the Top, as also that the word Martha Thorne was razed before the Esealing or Delivery hereof

John Hicks

Silas Hicks

Jacob Hicks

 

Probated on 16 May 1769, and proved by Silas Hicks and Jacob Hicks of said County Yeomen. Letters of Administration granted to Samuel Doughty, one of the Executors, on 26 May 1769.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from New York County Probate, Vol. 27, p. 48-50, copied from original Liber 27, p. 46-48.

 

 

Will of Stephen Cornell of Swansea, County of Bristol, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1767) *

In the Name of God Amen this Twenty Seventh Day of October In the Year of our Lord One Thousand Seven Hundred & Sixty Seven – I Stephen Cornell of Swanzey In the County of Bristol In the Province of the Massachusetts Bay &c Yeoman being weak in Body but of a Sound Disposing mind and Memory (thanks be given to Almighty God) Therefore calling to mind the Mortallity of my Body and knowing that it is Appointed for men once to Die do make and Ordain this my Last Will and Testament In the following manor and form ~~~

Imprimss. My Will is that all my Just Debts and funeral Charges be paid and Discharged by my Executor hereafter Named ~~

Item I give and Bequeath to my beloved Son Israel Cornel in addition to what I have already given him the Sum of fifteen Pounds Lawfull Money to be paid to him or to his Legall Representatives by my Executor hereafter named within One Year after my Decease

Also I give my Said Son Israel the one half of my wearing Apparrel ~

Item I give and Bequeath to my beloved Son Elisha Cornell In Addition to what I have already given him the Sum of Nine Pounds Lawfull Money to be paid to him or to his Legual Representatives by my Executor hereafter named within Two Years after my Decease ~~

Item I give and Bequeath to my beloved Son Stephen Cornell In Addition to what I have already given him the Sum of Twelve Pounds Lawfull money to be paid to him or to his Leguall Representatives by my Executor hereafter named In Two Years after my Decease also I give to my Said Son Stephen the one half of my wearing Apparrel ~

Item I give and Devise unto my beloved Son Gideon Cornell and to his Heirs and Assigns forever a Certain Tract or parcell of Land Lying in Swanzey aforesaid bounded Northerly by Land of the Heirs of Smith Rowland Westerly by Land of Samuel Lewis Southerly on Land of Joseph Baker and Easterly on a high Way ~~~

Item I give and Bequeath to my beloved Daughter Mary Mason In Addition to what I have already given her the one Equal fourth part of all my Houshold goods also I give to my Said Daughter Mary the Sum of five Pounds Lawfull Money to to be paid to her or to her Legual Representatives by my Executor hereafter named within One Year after my Decease ~~~

Item I give and Bequeath to my beloved Daughter Ruth Cornel Three Quater parts of all my houshold goods and also my Looms and all my Loom tackling and all my other Implements for making of Cloth I further give to my Said Daughter One good Cow I further give to my Said Daughter One Hundred pounds weight of good Beef and One hundred pounds weight of good Pork Eight bushels of good Indian Corn Two bushels of Rye Forty pounds weight of good Cheese Eight pounds weight of Butter all my wool flax and Yarn that I Shall have in my house at my Deceas all which Shall be paid and Delivered to her Imediately after my Decease by my Executor hereafter Named

I also give to my Said Daughter Ruth the Use and Improvement of the one half part of my now Dwelling House with the Use of my garden and the One Third part of my Orchad with a priviledge to pass and repass to the High Way the Garden and Orchad as She Shall have Occation and the keeping of Said Cow both Summer and Winter on this my homsteed farm all wich Use and Improvements with the keeping Sd. Cow Shall be performed by my Executor and to Continue During the term my Said Daughter Shall remain unmarried and no Longer, my Will is if my Said Daughter Ruth Shall See Cause in one Month after my Decease to Deliver up to my Executor the the Use and Improvment of the House Orchad Garden and the keeping of the Cow as aforesaid then my Will is that my Executor Shall pay in Liew there of to my Said Daughter Ruth the Sum of Twenty Pounds Lawfull money within One Year after my Decease and also the further Sum of Twenty Pounds in like Money Two Years after my Decease

Item I give and Bequeath to my granson Joseph Cornell my Gun ~~

Item I give and Bequeath to my grandaughter Penelope Cornell five Dollars to be paid to her by my Executor herafter named ~~

Item I give and Bequeath Six Rods Squar of Land on the South East Corner of my homesteed farm to all my Children and GrandChildren for the Use of a Burring place for them and their Heirs for=ever –

Item I give and Devise to my beloved Son Elijah Cornell to him his Heirs and Assigns forever all the Rest and Residue of my Estate both Real and personal wherever it may be found not otherways Disposed of in this my Last Will and Testament he paying and performing his Assigned Legacies According to the True Intent and meaning of this my Last Will ~~~

Finally I do Constitue Ordain and appoint my Said Son Elijah Cornell to be my whole and Sole Executor of this my Last Will & Testament Ratifieng and Confirming this and no other to me my Last Will and Testament In Witness Whereof I the said Stephen Cornell have hereunto Sett my hand and fixed my Seal the Day and Year before written—

Signed Sealed Published Pronounced             }

and Declared by the Sd. Stephen Cornell         }                                                              Stephen Cornell                                (seal)

to be his Last Will & Testament                      }

In the Prsence of us the Subscribors                 }

                Samuel Law

                Elezabeath Peirce

                David Peirce

 

Proved on 25 Apr. 1768 by Samuel Law and David Peirce, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Elijah Cornell, with David Peirce and Samuel Law as sureties.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Bristol County Probate File “Stephen Cornell, Swansey, 1768,” from FHL microfilm #0572854.

 

 

Will of Thomas Cornell of Dartmouth, County of Bristol, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1763) *

The Last Will and Testament of Thomas Cornel of Dartmouth in the County of Bristol in the Province of the Massachusetts Bay In New England &c being at this time weak in body, but of a Sound Disposing Mind & Memory, thanks be given unto God, therefore Considering the uncertainty of this my Natural Life, Do for the preventing futer trouble in My Family Make and Ordain this My Last Will and Testament,

Principally and First of all I Recommend my Soul to God my Most Mercifull Creator, whence I had my first being, And my body I Commit to the Earth there in to be Decently buried at the Dicreretion of My Executor herein after Nominated

Imprimus –

My Mind & will is that all my Just Debts and funeral Expences of all Sorts be first paid out of My Live Stock, by My Executor herein after Named,

Item, I Give & Bequeath unto My Loving Wife Mary Cornell all the House hold Goods She Brought with her when She Came to Live with me, also all the Notes of hand for Money which was Made to her, and also, all the Notes with her Name Mary Cornel upon the back of sd Notes – I also give unto My Said wife one Cow She to take her Choise out of My Cows, Also My Riding beast which Came of the Mair She Brought with her, the Sd Cow & & Riding Best to be kept on my farm, I Now Live on During the Time She Shall remain My widow, I Also give unto My sd Wife one womans side Saddle & Bridle, all the Above Said Gifts that I have in this My Last will & Testament Given to my said Wife I Give free & Clear to be at her own Dispose – and it is to be understood: I Give it in Lue of her Right of Dower and power of thirds In My Estate: Moreoever I give unto My Said Wife During the time She Shall remain my widow Sufficient fier wood Cut fit for the fier place in My Great Chamber, also My Great Chamber to Live in with a Priviledge in My Ketching what She Shall Have Ocation of to Do her own work in. also I Give unto My sd wife one Hundred pound of Good pork a year & Yearly During the time She Remains My Widow, to be procured by My Son Peleg Cornell – and also Eight bushel of Indian Corn in Like Manner as aforesaid

Item I Give & Bequeath unto My Son Peleg Cornel and to his Heirs and Assigns for Ever, all that My Homesteed Farm where I Now Live with all the Housing & biulding Standing on it together with all My Salt Medow and hummoks of upland in the Said Medow Lying up the River at a place Called petskeatawae Also My Little Island lying Near Jeremiah Wilcockes & Wings Shore with all My Medow & Sedges Lying & Adjoyning to Said Island also all that part of My Salt Medow or Segg Lying at Bush point flat So Called, in Acaaxset River only Excepting that half acre & Eight rod that I Bought of William Cadman, and also Excepting that Salt Medow I formerly Bought of Jeremiah Devol, and what Medow & Sedges that shall here after Make in the water Adjoyning to the Two parcels above Exceped I also Give unto My Said Son Peleg Cornel & to his Heirs & Assigns for ever the one half of all My Ceder Swamp in the Town of Dartmouth afores.d –

Item. I Give and Bequeath unto My Son Joshua Cornel and to his heirs and assigns for Ever all the Land or farm I Bought of Christopher Gifford with all the Buildings on it also My Bigest Island Called the pine Island with all My Salt Medow & Segg Lying Adjoyning to Said Island half an acre & Eight rod of Salt Medow I Bought of William Cadman at Bush point flat with what it May Increas by its Natural Groath further out In the water, Adjoyning to said Medow, and also that peace or parel of Medow or Segg flat that I Bought of Jeremiah Devol, Late of sd Dartmouth Decased, all on sd Bush point flat: also all that tract or Parcel of Salt Medow it being three Acres & thirteen rods as it was Laid out on the great flat in Acoaxset River – Also all the other half of My Ceder Swamp in Said Dartmh. also the Several parcels or Sums of Money which I have here to fore Let him have I give to him my Said Son Joshua Cornel I also give unto My Said Son Joshua Cornel all My Wareing apparel, also all the Remaining part of My Live Stock (if any there be) after all My Just Debts are paid I give unto My Said Son Joshua Cornel. –

Item: I Give and Bequeath unto My Daughter Rebecca Wing the Some of Twenty five pound Lawfull Money or to those that shall Legally represent her, to be paid to her My Said Daughter Rebecca Wing: by My Son Joshua Cornel, in Manner following: one third of the before Mentioned Twenty five pound in one year next After My Decease, & one third in Like Manner in Two years after my Decease, and the Remainder of the said Twenty five pound Lawfull Money in three years after my Decease.

Item: I Give and Bequeath unto My Daughter Susannah Gifford Twenty five pound Lawfull Money: to be paid to her by My Son Peleg Cornel, in three years Next after My Decease, in the following Manner one third of the Above Mentioned Some of Twenty five pound in one year after My Decease, one third in in Two year after My Decease, and the Remainder of the afore Sd Twenty five pound in three years after My Decease, I also give unto My Sd Daughter Susannah Gifford one Good fether bed –

Item I Give and Bequeath unto My Two Daughters Namley Rebecca Wing & Susannah Gifford, all the Remainder of My House hold Goods that I have Not heretofore in this My Last Will Other ways Disposed of Equally Between them –

Item: I Give and Bequeath to My Grandaughter Elizebeth Gifford Daughter: of My Daughter Elizabeth Gifford Deceased, the Sum of Ten pounds Lawful Money to be paid to her by My Son Peleg Cornel in five year Next after My Decease –

Item: I Give and Bequeth unto My Wife Mary Cornel one Quarter part of the use and Improvement of My Orchard, During the time She Shall Remain My Widw

Item: I Give & Bequeath unto My Son Peleg Cornel My Large handirons

Item I Give and Bequeath to My Wife Mary Cornel one Hundred pound of Good Beaf & three Bushel of Rye a year & yearly During the time She Remains My Widow, to be Procured by My Son Peleg Cornel for her In Manner as aforesaid –

Item Of this my Last Will and Testament I Do Nominate Constitute and Appoint My Son Peleg Cornel Executor to take Cear and See the Same in Every respect truly fulfilled And by These Presents I Do Revoke Make Null and void all and Every other Wills and Testaments whatsoever by me hereto fore Made or Declared confirming and allowing this and No other to be My Last Will and Testament.

In Testimony where I have hereunto Set My hand and fixed My Seal this Twenty fifty Day of May in the third year of his Majestys Reign George the Third by the Grace of God King of Great Brittain &c Annoqo Domini 1763,

Signed Sealed Published Pronounced                                                                             Thomas Cornell                                (seal)

and Declared by Me the Said Thomas Cornel

all this the afore written Instrument to be

My Last Will & Testament

In presence of –

Benjamin Wing

James Willkey

Benjn Akin

 

Presented for probate on 2 Aug. 1763. Benjamin Wing being one of the people Called Quakers made his solemn affirmation being one of the witnesses, and Benjamin Ackin Esqr. another of the witnesses thereto made oath that they were present and saw ye sd deceased sign seal and hear him Publish and declare ye sd Instrument as his Last will and testament.

 

Stephen Wilcoks, John Potter ye 2, and James Wilkey, all of Dartmo., were appointed to appraise the Inventory of Thomas Cornel, late of Dartmo., on 15 July 1763. The Inventory of the movable Estate of Thomas Cornel, late of Dartmo. was dated 15 July 1763, but not totaled. Peleg Cornel, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 2 Aug. 1763.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Bristol County Probate File “Thomas Cornell, Dartmouth, 1763,” from FHL microfilm #0572854.

 

 

Will of Thomas Cornell of Rockaway, Hempstead, Queens County, Province of New York (1763) *

In the name of God Amen I Thomas Cornell of Rockway in Queens County in the Province of New York being weak in body but of sound and disposing mind and memory and Knowing the certainty of Death and uncertainty of the time thereof do make and publish this my last Will and Testament in manner following that is to say Imprimis I recommend my Soul into the hands of God who gave it and my body to the Earth from whence it was taken to be buried in a decent and Christian like manner at the Discretion of my Executors and as touching such Worldly Estate wherewith it hath pleased God to bless me with in this Life I give and dispose of the same in the following manner that is to say Imprimis I Order and direct that all my Just debts and funeral Expences to be first paid out of my Personal Estate, Item I do give and bequeath unto my beloved Wife Sarah Cornell my negro Woman Slave named Philis and my rideing Chair Chair Horse one hundred Pounds in money one Bed and furniture and the use of all my plate (one silver Bowl only Excepted) during her Widowhood. Item I give and bequeath unto her my said Wife so long as she continues my Widow the whole and entire use of a certain Tract of Land lying at Rockway being part of the Plantation whereon I now reside beginning at a certain spring below my Orchard called the orchard Spring and from thence to run as the fence now stands to another Spring nigh Richard Cornells called the Lattens Spring including all the Lands and meadows within the said fence as far as the Creek with all the appurtenances thereunto belonging Except the Wood and Timber growing thereon together with the use of the one equal half part of my dwelling House Kitchen Barn ovil and Chair house at Rockway with one equal half of the fruit of my Orchard there yearly and the priviledge of geting the necessary fire Wood and fencing Timber on a Certain part of my Plantation called Rocks Point at Rockway, Item I give and bequeath unto my Son Thomas Cornel one pair of Good working Oxen  Item I give and bequeath unto my Sister Elizabeth Cornell at the fish Kills twenty Pounds  Item I give and bequeath unto Lettishe Lawrence and to her Heirs and assigns one bed and furniture  Item I give and bequeath unto my three Daughters to wit Phebe Martha and Peggy and to each of their respective Representatives three fourth parts of all the Residue of my Personal Estate of what kind or nature soever or wheresoever my Corn Growing on the ground included to be equally divided among them Except one hundred pounds first to be taken out of the said moveable Estate  Item my Will is and I do Order and Direct that the other fourth of the aforesaid Residue of my Personal Estate shall remain in the hands of my Executors together with the abovesaid on hundred Pounds which I have excepted out of my moveable Estate for such uses as I shall herein after direct.

Item I give and devise unto my Son Thomas Cornell all my lands Tenements and Hereditaments lying on Rockway Neck on the South side of Nassaw Island the use of that part thereof which I have devised to my Wife only excepted untill the said use be deleimined all which said Lands Tenements and Hereditaments I give and devise unto him my said Son Thomas and to his heirs and assignes for ever on the following conditions to wit first on condition that he my said Son of his heirs Executors or Administrators shall pay unto my said Wife Sarah Cornell to her heirs and assigns the sum of two hundred Pounds within one year next after my Death, Secondly that he or they pay unto my Executors or the Survivors of Survivor of them the sum of two hundred and Sixty pounds within two years next after my Death for such uses as I shall hereafter direct, and thirdly that he or they pay unto my Daughter Phebe and to her representatives the sum of two hundred pounds within three years next after my Decease and unto my other two Daughters to witt Martha and Peggy and to each of their respective Representatives the several sums of two hundred pounds each yearly thereafter in the order as they are named and also that he or they pay unto Lettishe Lawrence and to her heirs and assigns the sum of forty pounds within five years next after my Decease as aforesaid and in case my said Son Thomas or his heirs Executors or Administrators shall refuse or neglect to pay any of the respective sums aforesaid for the space of three months next after any of the said sums become payable then and in such case my Will is that my Executors or any two of them or the Survivors or Survivor of them shall sell so much of the aforesaid Lands Tenements and Hereditaments devised to my said Son Thomas as will raise a sum of money sufficient to discharge all the aforesaid several payments with all costs and charges arising thereon and I do hereby fully Impower my Executors or any two of them and the Survivors or Survivor of them to make such Sale accordingly  Item my Will is and I do order and direct that my Executors or Survivors or Survivor of them shall put out on Interest as soon as they conveniently can after my Decease all the money arising by the aforesaid fourth part of my Personal Estate which I have directed to remain in their hands and also the aforesaid one hundred pounds which is excepted out of my moveable Estate and shall pay the Interest thereof yearly into the hands of my Daughter Sarah for her use only and in Case she Survives her present Husband Daniel Waters they shall then pay unto her the whole princible money for her sole and proper use only but in case she does not Survive him they shall then pay the principal money according to such disposition as she shall make thereof in writing under her hand in the presence of two Credible Witnesses, and it is also my Will and I do further Order and direct that my Executors or the Survivors or Survivor of them shall employ the aforesaid sum of two hundred and Sixty pounds to be paid unto them by my Son Thomas Cornel for the use of my Daughter Sarah in the same manner in all Respects as they are directed to employ the money arising by the aforesaid fourth part of my Personal Estate as also the aforesaid one hundred pounds which is excepted out of my moveable Estate as aforesaid.

Item I do give and bequeath unto my Daughters Phebe Martha and Peggy and to each of their respective Representatives three fourth parts of all my plate only excepting one Silver Bowl as above mentioned after the use thereof devised to my Wife shall be determined to be equally divided among them and I do order and direct that the other fourth part of my plate (only excepting as above) shall remain in the hands of my Executors or the Survivors or Survivor of them for the use of my Daughter Sarah in Case she Survives her present husband Daniel Waters and in Case she does not survive him then my Executors or the Survivors or Survivor of them shall after her Death deliver the said plate unto such person or persons as she by some Instrument of writing under her hand in the presence of two Credible Witnesses shall direct and in Case she makes no such disposition in writing my Executors or the Survivors or Survivor of them shall after her Decease divide all the said plate and all the aforesaid sums of money which shall be in their hands for her use among all her Children in equal portions

Item I hereby declare that whatsoever I have devised to my Wife Sarah Cornel is in Lieu of her Dower and that it is my Will that if she shall refuse to accept thereof as such and shall incist on her Dower that then and in such case whatsoever I have bequeathed unto her shall be unto my Son Thomas Cornel to his own proper use, Lastly I make and appoint my Friends Valentine Hewlet Peters Jacob Mott David Jones and William Nicolls Esqrs. Executors of this my last Will and Testament In Witness whereof I have to this my last Will and Testament set my hand and Seal this twenty fourth day of December in the year of our Lord Christ Seventeen hundred and Sixty three.

                                                                                                                                                Thomas Cornell                (seal)

Signed Sealed Published and Declared by the said Thomas Cornell as and for his last Will and Testament in Presence of

Benjamin Lester

Jacob Hicks

Benjamin Wright

 

Probated on 4 Apr. 1764, and proved by Benjamin Lester, Jacob Hicks, and Benjamin Wright, of the said County and Township of Hempsted, the witnesses. Letters of Administration granted to Valentine Hewlet Peters and Jacob Mott, two of the Executors on 23 Apr. 1764.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from New York County Probate, Vol. 24, p. 407-412, copied from original Liber 24, p. 376-381.

 

 

Will of Thomas Cornell of Rockaway, Hempstead, Queens County, Province of New York (1766) *

In the Name of God Amen I Thomas Cornell of Rock way in the Township of Hempstead in Queens County in the Province of New York Yeoman being weak in Body but of sound mind and memory (blessed be God) Do this seventeenth day of September in the Year of Lord Christ One thousand Seven hundred and Sixty six make and publish this my last will and Testament in Manner and form following (that is to say) Imprimis I commend my soul into the Hands of Almighty God who gave it me, my Body to the Earth from whence it came, in hopes of a joyful Resurrection to Eternal Life through the merits of my Saviour Jesus Christ; and as for that worldly Estate wherwith it has please God to bless me I dispose thereof as follows, First I give grant Devise and Bequeath unto my three sons namely Thomas, Whitehead and Benjamin all and Singular my Messuages or Dwelling Houses, Lands, Meadows and real Estate at Rockaway aforesaid where I now live Together with an Eight Shilling Right in the common and Undivided Land in the Township of Hempstead aforesaid all which to be equally Divided betwixt my said three sons in Quantity and Quality as nearly as may be To have and to hold the same Messuages Lands Meadows and Right of Lands with their and every of their Rights Preveledges Hereditaments and appurtenances unto them my said three sons in Severalty and to their severall and respective heirs and Assigns for Ever But my will is that in case that any of my said Lands so devised to my said three sons as aforesaid should hereafter appear to be under an Intail and my son Thomas as Heir at Law should take the advantage thereof and hold such Intailed Lands to himself then and in such case my will is that he shall have no Right at all in any part or parcel of such of my Lands as are above Devised which shall be free from such Intail, and in case any of my said sons shall happen to Dye before he or they arive to lawfull age and without lawful Issue then my will is that his or their part and share of my aforesaid real Estate shall go to and be fore the only benefit and behoof of them Survivor or Survivors of my said three sons and to their heirs and assigns for Ever. Item I will and Order that my Messuage Grist Mill, with all my Lands Meadows and real Estate in Jamaica in Queens County shall be sold by my Executors hereafter named and appointed or any two of them as soon as conveniently may be after my Decease in such manner as to them shall seem most for the advantage of my Estate and I do hereby fully Authorise and impower them my said Executors or any two of them aforesaid to make sale thereof accordingly and to give seal and execute good sufficient Deed or Deeds of conveyance in the Law to the Buyer or Buyers thereof his and their Heirs and assigns for Ever, and out of the moneys arising by or from the sale thereof I Will and order the first of all that all my just Debts shall be duly paid and Satisfyed and the over plus thereof I give and bequeath unto Helenah my dearly beloved wife my three sons abovenamed and my Daughter Helenah to be Divided amongst them share and share alike, Item I give and bequeath unto my said Wife and Daughter all my whole moveable and personal Estate of what kind or nature soever equally to be Divided betwixt them (Excepting all such moneys as shall or may be Due to me by Bond Bill Note of hand Book or otherways as also all such ready cash as I shall have by me at the time of my Decease all which said Debts and ready Cash above excepted I will and order that the same shall go and be apply’d for and towards the Payment and Discharge of my Debts) and I do will and order that my Wife shall have the use or Interest of my Daughters part or share of my Estate so given to her as aforesaid to defray the charge of her Education and bringing up through her Nonage, Item I further give unto my said wife the whole use Benefit proffits and Incomes of all my Lands and real Estate at Rockaway aforesaid for so long a Time as till my said three sons shall respectively arive to lawful age or Marry (if my said Wife shall so long continue my widow) which said Proffits and income shall be for the support and maintenance of my said Wife and also for the maintenance and Education of my said sons during the Time aforesaid and my will is that in case my said Wife shall remain my widow until all my said Sons arive to lawful Age or Mary that she shall then during her widowhood have and take to herself all such benefits and priviledges in my house and Lands which my Mother now has and enjoys by Virtue of my Fathers last Will and Testament which with all other the Legacies and Priviledges above given unto her my said wife shall be in Lieu and in full of her Right and Title of Dower or Power of thirds of into or out of all my Lands and real Estate. Item my will is that if my said wife shall marry again that then all the Rights and priviledges which I have above given unto her in all or any of my said Lands and real Estate shall cease, Determine and be absolutely and utterly void to all intents purposes and constructions whatsoever and Lastly I nominate and appoint Helenah my said wife my honoured Father in law Benjamin Whitehead, and my son Thomas above named or any two of them Executors of this my last Will and Testament, and I do hereby declare this and no other by me heretofore made to be and contain my last will and Testament. In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal the Day and Year first above written

                                                                                                                                                Thomas Cornell                (seal)

Item my will and true meaning is that my said three Sons as they respectively arive to lawful age or Marry shall have the use Possession and benefit of his or their part of my said Lands so given or Devised to him and them as aforesaid (Excepting that reserved to my said Wife during her Widowhood) immediately after his or their arrival to such age or Marrying as aforesaid

                                                                                                                                                Thomas Cornell

Signed sealed published and declared by the said Thomas Cornell as and for his last Will and Testament in the presence of us who have hereunto Subscribed our Names as Witnesses thereto in the presence of the Testator and in the Presence of each other

Mary Whitehead

Joseph Field

Benja Hinchman

 

Probated on 6 Mar. 1767, and proved by Benjamin Hinchman, of Jamaica. Letters of Administration granted to Helenah Cornell and Benjamin Whitehead, two of the Executors, on 27 June 1769.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from New York County Probate, Vol. 27, p. 74-77, copied from original Liber 27, p. 74-77.

 

 

Will of William Cornell of Hempstead, Queens County, Province of New York (1742) *

In the Name of God Amen. I William Cornell of Hempstead in Queens County on Long Island Gent. being well stricken in years but of sound Mind and Memory praise be given to God therefore well knowing the certainty of Death and the uncertainty of the Hour of its approach do make this my last will and Testament in manner and form following.

First I bequeath my immortal soul to God who gave it My Body to the Earth from whence if came in certain hopes of a Reunion of my Body and Soul at the last day and of Eternal Salvation thro the Sole merits of my Blessed Saviour Jesus Christ and as to what worldly Estate that shall belong to me at the time at the time of my decease, I give devise and bequeath the same as followeth.

Imprimis. I will that my just Debts and funeral – Charges be paid and satisfied.

Item. I give and devise unto my two Sons John and William all my Beach, Marshes and broken Lands and others belonging to me at Rockway Beach equally to be divided betwixt them and their respective Heirs and Assignes for Ever And they are to maintain the Fence equally betwixt them and as to my personal Estate after my Debts are paid I give to my Grandchildren Elizabeth the daughter of my Son John and to Phoebe Denton the Daughter of my Daughter Elizabeth late wife of James Denton Each of them the sum of five pounds.

To Susannah the daughter of my Son William the sum of twenty pounds.

To Elizabeth Stringham the Daughter of my Daughter Mary late wife of James Stringham the sum of ten pounds and to Mary Stringham the other Daughter of my said late Daughter Mary the sum of One hundred pounds And to Elizabeth Hazard the Daughter of my Daughter Letitia deceased late the wife of Johnathan Hazard the sum of Ten pounds, And all the remaining part of my personal Estate if any be I give to my Son William Cornell and his Daughter Susannah aforesaid and to my said Grand Daughter Mary Stringham equally to be divided amongst them three.

Lastly I hereby nominate and appoint my Brother Collo John Cornell and my two Sons William and John to be Executors of this my last Will and Testament and do hereby revoke all former or other wills by me made.

In Witness whereof I have hereunto put my Hand and Seal this fourth day of May in the year of our Lord Seventeen hundred and Forty two

                                                                                                                                Wi: Cornell                        (seal)

Signed Sealed delivered and published by the said William Cornell as his last Will and Testament in presence of us

                                                                                                                                S:l Clowes

                                                                                                                                Jos: Sackett Junr.

                                                                                                                                Johannah Clowes

 

Letters of Administration granted to William Cornell and John Cornell, two of the Executors, on 1 Sept. 1743, Collo. John Cornell, the other Executor named having renounced his right thereto.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from New York County Probate, Vol. 15, p. 89-91, copied from original Liber 15, p. 93-95.

 

 

Will of William Cornell of Hempstead, Queens County, Province of New York (1756) *

In the Name of God. Amen. I William Cornell of Hempstead in Queens County in the Colony of New York yeoman being in perfect Health & Strength of Body, and of Sound mind and understanding blesed be God therefore, but calling to mind the certainty of Death and the uncertain Hour thereof do make this my last Will and Testament in the manner & Form following. First I give and Bequeath my Immortal Spirit unto God who Gave it, my Body I recommend to the Earth from whence it came to be Buryed in a Christian Like manner at the discretion of my Executors herein after named. And as touching my Temporal Estate wherewith it has pleased God to bless me in this Life, I give will Devise bequeath & dispose thereof as Followeth. Imprimis, I give and Bequeath to my Son William Cornell my Negro Boy named Cezar, and another of my negro Boys named Charles,— I give and Bequeath to my son John Cornell, and to my son Timothy I give and Bequeath another of my Negro Boys named Fortune To be & Remain to them respectively & to their several & respective Executors administrators & Assigns forever. Item I give and bequeath unto my Daughter Susannah my Silver Teapot and half a Dozen Silver Table spoons, I give to my Daughter Ann, and half a Dozen more of the same Sort I give to my Daughter Elizabeth. Item I will and require that all and Singular my Messuages Dwelling Houses Lands Meadows Tenements and Hereditaments, where I now Live in the Township of Hempsted abovesaid or Elswhere in any part of the world whatsoever, with their & every their appurtenances shall be sold by My Exrs or major part of them by way of publick vendue or by private Sale as to them shall seem best and most beneficial for my Estate, and I hereby fully as farr as in me lyeth Authorise and Impower them my said Executors or major part of them to make sale thereof accordingly and to subscribe seal & Deliver good Authentick and sufficient Deed or other Legal Reasonable & proper Instruments in writing for Conveying and Confirming the same to the Buyer or Buyers his her or their Heirs & Assigns for ever, and my Will is further and I order & Require that my said Executors or Major part of them shall also sell and dispose of all the Rest and Remainder of my moveable Estate at Publick or Private Sale which they please (excepting my wearing apparell which I give to my three Sons above named Equally to be divided between them, and Excepting also the three negro Boys & the Silver Teapot and Spoons, above herein named in manner and form as aforesaid) Item I do will and order that as soon as my Real and personal Estate shall be sold as aforesaid and turned into into money, That in the first place out of the money produced thereby my Executors shall duly pay all my Just Debts and Funeral Charges, and out of the overplus I give to my Son William the sum of three hundred pounds, and the like Sum of three hundred pounds to my Son John, and the Sum of three hundred pounds to my Son Timothy, and to my said Daughters Susannah, Ann & Elizabeth I give the sum of Two hundred pounds Each to be paid to them Respectively as soon as the money can conveniently be collected in coming by the sale of My Estate as aforesaid (my Sons being first paid their Respective Legacies above mentioned) and also the Supluss money if any be after paying my Debts & all & every the Legacies above mentioned I give and bequeath the same to my Three Sons above named in an equall proportion to be Divided betwixt them. as to my Son Timothy being in his nonage I will and order that his share and proportion of My Estate which I have above given or bequeathed unto him shall be by my Executors or Major part of them put & kept out at Interest, and the Interest arising thereby shall be applied towards his maintenance & Education during his nonage, and the residue of all his said Legacies gifts or bequests paid him when he shall arive to Lawfull age or Marry which shall happen first. And Lastly I do nominate and appoint my Sons William & John above named my Daughter Susannah above said and my Trusty & wellbeloved Friend Henry Van Flack of the City of New York Merchant (or such & so many of them as shall think fit to Qualifie themselves) Executors of this my last Will and Testament, and I allow and declare this & no other by me heretofore made to be my last Will & Testament,  In Testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and Seal this foretench [fourteenth] day of June Day of June in the year of our Lord Christ one thousand seven hundred and fifty six.—

                                                                                                                                                William Cornell                 (seal)

Signed Sealed published and Declared by the above named William Cornell the Testator as and for his last Will and Testament in the presence of us who have have hereunto subscribed our names as Witnesses thereto in the presence of the said Testator and in presence of Each other.—

Elias Doughty

John Cromwell

Sarah Doughty

 

Probated on 5 Apr. 1781, and proved by Sarah Doughty of Queens County, one of the witnesses. Letters of Administration granted to William Cornell and Susannah Vanostrand, one of the Executors and the Executrix, on 25 Apr. 1781.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from New York County Probate, Vol. 34, p. 197-200, copied from original Liber 34, p. 156-158.

 

 

Will of Thomas Cornish of Bridgewater, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1756) *

   In the Name of God Amen

the thirtieth day of April Anno Domi, 1756, Thomas Cornish of Bridgwater in the County of Plimouth Labourer Having Inlisted myself in His majesty’s in the war in the intended Expedition against Crown point, do make and Ordain this my last Will and Testamt that is to say principally and first of all, I Give and Recommend my Soul into the Hands of God that gave it, and my body I Recommend to Earth, nothing Doubting that at the Generall Resurrection I shall Receive the same again by the mighty power of God and as touching Such things of this Worlds Goods that it hath pleased God to Bless me with in this life I Give Devise & Dispose of the same in the following manner & form

Imprs. It is my Will and I doe Order that in the first place all my Just Debts be paid and Satisfied~

Item, I give to my mother Jane Primes one pound Six Shillings & eight pense to be paid to her by my Execr. out of my Estate

Item I give to my Sister Eunis primes one pound Six Shillings and eight pence, when she comes to be of the age of Eighteen yrs. to be paid to her by my Execr. out of my Estate

Item I give to my wife Sarah one Cow and all the Remainder of my Estate that I have not already disposed of; and I do Constitute & appoint my Trusty Frind Mr. Thomas Ames of Bridgwater in the County of Plimouth to be Sole Execr. of this my last Will and Testament, Ratifying & Confirming this & no other to be my last Will and testament, In Witness whereof I have hereunto Set my hand and Seal the day and Year above written

Signed Sealed published pronounced             }                                                                              his

and Declared by the sd. Thomas Cornish        }                                                              Thomas  +  Cornish                            (seal)

to be his last Will and Testament                    }                                                                              mark

In the presence of us the Subscribers               }

   Joseph Josslyn  Jonathan Howard

   Nathan Haward

 

Proved on 7 Mar. 1757 by Joseph Josslyn and Jonathan Haward. Letters of Administration were granted to Thomas Ames of Bridgwater, yeoman, the Sole Executor.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 14, p. 346-347, from FHL microfilm #0551542.

 

 

Will of Thomas Cornwell of Oyster Bay, Queens County, Province of New York (1740) *

In the name of God Amen the seventh day of February in the year of our Lord Christ one thousand seven hundred and thirty nine (forty) I Thomas Cornwell of Oysterbay in Queens County on Nassau Island and in the Province of New York Yeom being sick and weak in Body but of perfect mind and memory thanks be give unto God therefore and calling unto mind the Mortality of my Body and well knowing that it is appointed for all men once to Die do make and ordain this my last Will and Testament that is to say principally and first of all I give recommend my Soul into the hands of God that gave it and my body I recommend to the Earth to be buried in decent Christian burial at the Discretion of my Executors hereafter named and appointed nothing doubting but at the General Ressurrection I shall receive the same again by the mighty Power of God and as touching such Worldly Estate wherewith it hath pleased God to bless me with in this Life I give demise and dispose of the same in the following manner and form  Imprimis I give and bequeath unto Mary my dearly beloved Wife all my whole moveable Estate and Effects of what kind soever upon this condition that she my said Wife will do and shall fully discharge all my Just debts that is now owing or becoming due from me and if my said Wife do refuse or neglect to discharge my said Debts as afore said that then I do order and impower my Executors hereafter named to sell and dispose of so much of my said moveables Effects as will discharge my said debts as aforesaid  Item I give and bequeath unto Mary my dearly beloved Wife the full whole and uncontroulable use and profits of all my Lands Messuages and Tenements by her freely to be possessed and enjoyed dureing the time she shall remain my Widow and no longer and she my said Wife shall provide for and bring up my two Daughters namely Elizabeth and Latisha for the profits afore said  Item it is my Will when my dearly beloved Wife Mary shall marry or Die that then all my lands Messuages and Tenements shall be sold by my Executors hereafter named and appointed and I do hereby give and grant unto my said Executors full power and Lawfull Authority to sell the same and the Sale or conveyance so made by them shall be to all intents constructions and purposes as good firm and effectual to the purchasers as if I myself had conveyed the same with my own hand and Seal,  Item I give and bequeath unto Mary my dearly beloved Wife (if she shall survive the Sale of the land as aforesaid) the one equal full third part of all the money my Lands sells for as aforesd. be the same more or less to her own proper use the said Legacy being in Lieu of her Dowry and to be paid in some convenient time after such sale is made as aforesaid  Item I give to my welbeloved Daughter Elizabeth Cornwell the one full equal third part of all the money that my Lands and Tenements as aforesaid shall or may be sold for be the same more or less to be paid by my Executors,  Item I give to my welbeloved Daughter Latisha Cornwell the remainder full equal third part of all the money that my Lands and Tenements as aforesaid shall or may be sold for be the same more or less to be paid by my Executors,  Item it is my Will that if my two Daughters Elizabeth and Latisha shall Die before they arrive to the age of Eighteen years without Issue and unmarried that then the Interest or use of their Legacies shall be to my Wife Mary Cornwell dureing her Life and then the principal shall be returned to my to loving Brothers John and William Cornwell equally to be divided between them or their heirs and I do appoint constitute make and ordain my dearly beloved Wife Mary Cornwell an Executrix loving Brother John Cornwell and my loving Brother William Cornwell and my trusty and loving Friend Richard Thorne of Great Neck my Exors. of this my last Will and Testament and I do hereby utterly disallow revoke and disanul all and every other former Testaments Wills Legacies and bequests & Executors by me in any ways before named Willed and bequeathed ratifying and confirming this and no other to be my last Will & Testament  In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and Seal the day and date above written.  Mary Cornwell taken in an Executrix before the signing this Will.

                                                                                                                                                Thomas Cornell                (seal)

Signed Sealed Published Pronounced and Declared by the sd. Thomas Cornwell as his last Will and Testament in the presence of us the subscribers

Samuel Daughty

Thomas Lewis

David Seaman

 

Probated on 16 Apr. 1740, and Letters of Administration granted to Mary Cornell, John Cornell, William Cornell, and Richd. Thorne, the Executors, on 16 Apr. 1740.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from New York County Probate, Vol. 13, p. 521-524, copied from original Liber 13, p. 407-410.

 

 

Will of John Cotton of Plymouth, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1698) *

The last Will and Testament of John Cotton of Plimouth.

I John Cotton now of plimouth not knowing how soone God may Call me out of this World Do make this my last Will and Testament in manner as followeth hereby revoaking & making voyd all former wils. I commit my soul to god in Christ my maker & Redeemer Resting alone upon his free grace & mercy in ye everlasting Covenant for Everlasting Salvation. Concerning my worldly Estate which God hath Lent me I dispose as followeth. My Will is that as Soone as may be after my decease if it be not done before That my two daughters Sarah Bradbury and Maria Bradbury have paid to them what Remains of an hundred pound Each of them as my Daughter Elizabeth Allin hath already Received which my son Allin Did give acquittance for. My share in ye farm at Muddey River I have by particular Instruments to my two Eldest Sons John and Rowland ordered ye same upon such Terms and Conditions as are in said Conveyances of mine Expressed And my Will is as is therein Written. I do Will my son John because my first Borne a full Double portion of my Whole Estate that I and my wife my dye possessed of And Do Conclude and Assuredly judge that he having one half of my Share in ye farm with what he hath Received in other things already is much more than a double portion where with I desire and Expect that he Rest well Contented And my will further is That my Dear Wife Joanna Cotton Who hath beene a Comfort and Rich Blessing to me and mine in all changes Ever since we Came together have ye full and sole Improvements of my Whole Estate Real and personall till her death if she please Confiding in her love and faithfulness that if God Should Dispose her to a second Marriage She will take Effectual Care that ye Children which God hath given us Shall have ye benifit and possession of all that part of my Estate which she Shall not need to Improve During her life In as much as all my sons through ye Goodness and bounty of God are Educated in learning the three Eldest having already Commended and actually Engaged in ye Service of God and their Generation And the youngest Menyfully provided for three years more at ye Colledge My Will is that after my decease if my two sons John and Rowland Relinquish all particular Right & title to ye farm which they may pretend to by vertue of any former act of mine then my Estate to Be Equally Divided betwixt my seven children And Counting what Each one Either son or daughter hath already Received or may Receive before my my[?] Wives decease as my self or my wife have in Writing taken an account of, my son John to have a Double portion And fifty pounds more to Encourage his Complyance herein But if he Retains his Interest wholy in that half of my Share of the farm which he hath upon such Conditions Granted him from me Then my Estate Shall be Equally Given to Rowland Elizabeth Sarah Mariah Josiah and Theophilus my other Six Children All my Books that are not English my four sons Shall have Equally divided to them, out of my English Divinity Books Each of my three Daughters Shall have to ye value of tiren[?] by shillings Apprized to them by my Executrix, my dear wife who loves to Read and Studdey ye holy Scriptures and Books Shall keep what Books of mine she pleases to her dying day. After her decease Josiah shall have Pools Annotations and I desire In Case that another of ye same be procured for Theophilus out of my Estate. My Son John shall have my Guilded Greek Testament  my house and Land at Plimouth my 200 acres of Land by Inheritance from my father and Since Confirmed to me by ye Generall Court at Boston And 500 acres Granted me by said Court in Right of my Wives Grandfather Mr Edward Rossiter for that I had many years kept his Daughter Mrs Joan Hart I Give full power to my wife to Dispose of for ye benifit of me and mine as She pleases I make my Dear Wife Who hath beene ye Great Blessing of my Life to her utmost My Sole Executrix of this Will: If any of my Seven Children Dye before my wife there part shall be given Equally to ye Survivors as is above Exprest Such is my Confidence in my wife that I give her leave to alter my will in any particulars She may judge best taking ye advice of any judicious friend whom she Shall Choose I confirm & Ratifie this to be my last will & testament by my hand and Seal This twenty sixth of October one thousand Six hundred ninety and Eight                                                                                                                                                                                           John Cotton                       (seal)

Signed Sealled and Declared to be his Last Will

and Testament in presence of

William Shurtliff

Nathaniel Thomas junr

Mary Thomas

 

Plimouth Ss ye 18th day of Septembr 1700. Before Wm Bradford Esqr Then appeared Mr William Shurtliff Mr Nathaniel Thomas and Mary his Wife ye Witnesses Subscribed to ye within written Will and made oath that they were present & saw and heard Mr John Cotton ye Testator within named Sign Seal and Declare this within written Instrument to be his last Will and Testament & that to ye best of their judgment he was of Sound disposing mind and memory when he did ye same.

                Attest Saml Sprague Register

 

William Bradford Esqr Commissioned &c for ye Granting of Probate of Wills and Letters of Administration within ye County of Plimouth to all to whome these presents shall Come or may concern Greeting know ye that on ye Eighteenth Day of September Anno Domini one thousand and seven hundred before me in plimouth ye Will of Mr John Cotton Late of Plimouth Deceased to these presents annexed was proved Approved and allowed who having while he Lived and at ye time of his Death goods Chattels Rights and Credits the said Deceased and his sd Will in any manner Concerning was Committed unto Joanna his Wife Executrix in ye same Will named Well & truly to Administer ye same And to make a true & perfect Inventory of all & singular ye goods Chattels Rights & Credits of ye sd Deceased and the same to Exhibit into ye Registers office of ye aforesd County according to Law Also to Render a plain & true account of her sd Administration upon oath In Testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and ye Seal of ye said office.

Dated at Plimouth ye 18th day of                                                                                      William Bradford                                (seal)

September Ano Dom) 1700

Saml. Sprague Register.

 

An Inventory of ye Estate of Mr Jno Cotton late of Plimouth now deceased

Taken & apprised by us whose names are under written July ye 30th 1700.

[Not totaled, but his housing & lands at Plimouth valued at £150, some other lands in this province and some at Carolina of unknown value, and his estate included £50 in books.]

                                                                                                                                                Wm Bassett

                                                                                                                                                Samll Prince

Mrs Joanna Cotton, the Executrix, gave her oath to the inventory before Wm Bradford Esqr judge on 18 Sept. 1700.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 1, pp. 327-328, 329, from FHL microfilm #0550708.

 

 

Will of Jane Cowing of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1791) *

In the name of God Amen – on the third day of February in the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred & ninety one, I Jean Cowing of Bridgwater in the county of Plymouth & Comonwealth of Massachusetts, in New England, widow being advanced in age & under some bodily infirmity, yet through divine goodness of sound & disposing mind & memory, and calling to mind the frailty and mortality of my body, as well as the soul’s immortality, do now proceed to make & ordain this my Last will & testament, and first of all I commend my immortal soul into the hands of that God, who gave it, trusting & relying in the merits & intercession of Jesus Christ my saviour for pardon grace & glory, and my body I commit to the earth, to be decently buried, at the discretion of my Executor hereafter named, nothing doubting but that at the general resurrection of all the dead, the same shall be raised again, by the mighty power of almighty God, to a glorious immortality, and with respect to the worldly Interest, which I Leave behind, I dispose of it, in manner, as follows – vizt

Imprs I Give & bequeath unto my two Sons vizt–Joseph & Ward six shilling a piece, to be paid to each of them by my Executor, within twelve months after my decease

 Item – I Give & bequeath, unto my three grand children vizt John Hooper, Joseph Hooper & Hannah Hooper, six shillings a piece, to be paid to each of them by my sd Executor, within twelve months after my decease

 Item – I Give & bequeath unto my Grandson Henry Cowing Eighteen Shillings, to be paid to him by my sd. Executor within twelve months after my decease

  Item – I Give & bequeath unto my Grand Daughter Abigail Cowing, my feather Bed & furniture, and all my wearing apparell, also my case of drawers & my milch Cow & one pair of hand Irons & all my pewter & Iron ware, and my Looking glass & Linnen, together with all the residue of my Estate after my just debts & charges are paid & the Legacies above mentioned

  Lastly – I do hereby nominate & appoint my son Joseph Cowing sole Executor upon this my Last will & testament, ordering him to pay all my just debts & charges & the Legacies aforesaid, in manner & form above mentioned.— In witness whereof I have hereunto Set my hand & seal, the day & year aforesaid

Signed, Sealed, Published, Pronounced &                                                                             her

declared by the said Jane Cowing, to be her                                                                   Jane  X  Cowing                                   (seal)

Last will & testament in presence of                                                                                      mark

                Joseph Bassett

                Hasadiah Leach

                James Leach

 

Presented for probate on 3 Feb. 1794 by Joseph Cowing, the Executor therein named, and proved by Joseph Bassett and James Leach, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Joseph Cowing, the before named Executor.              

 

Jas Leach, yeoman, Jos. Basset Gentleman, and Robt Dunbar, yeoman, all of Bridgwater, were appointed to appraise the estate of Jane Cowing, late of Bridgwater, on 3 Feb. 1794. The inventory was dated 16 Apr. 1794, and totaled £19.18~. Jos. Cowing, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 7 July 1794.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 33, p. 538-539, from FHL microfilm #0550717, and Vol. 35, p. 114-115.

 

 

Will of William Creed Jr., of Jamaica, Queens County, Province of New York (1710) *

In the Name of God Amen. I William Creed Junr. of Jamaica in Queens County on the Island Nassaw within the province of New York Gent. being now very sick and weak in body but of sound and perfect mind and memory Considering the Certainty of Death but the uncertain hour thereof Doe make this my Last Will and Testament in Manner and form following. First I bequeath my Soul to God who gave it my body to the Earth from whence it Came to be Decently and Christianly buried at the Discretion of my Executors hereafter named in Sure hopes of a Reunion of my body and Soul at the Last Day and Eternall Salvation through the Merritts of my onely and Blessed Saviour Jesus Christ and as for Such worldly Estate as it hath pleased God to bestow upon me, I Give devise and bequeath the same as followeth, First I will that my Funerall Expences and Just Debts be duely paid and Satisfyed for the better performing of which I hereby order and Authorize my Executors hereafter named or the Major part of them to Sell and Convey away my Lott of Land in the Township of Jamaica Comonly Called Higbeys Lott, or Some other part of my Lands not Exceeding the value of Two hundred pounds. Whereas I am together with Thomas Whitehead and Abel Gale Security for a Certain Sume of Money for Francis Sawyer of Jamaica and Whereas I have further advanced money to the said Sawyer to Indemnifie them and me in which behalf the said Sawyer hath by a Deed or Mortgage Made over to me his house and Some Land in Jamaica It is my will if the Equity of Redemption be taken away that the said house and Lands be sold by my Executors or Major part of them and that the Said Thomas Whitehead and Abel Gale be Indemnifie with the produce thereof if it amount to so much as will Indemnifie them and my self, if not that we be proportionable Loosers but if it amount to more the overplus after all Charges Interest Costs and trouble paid to be returned to the said Francis Sawyer or his Executors or administrators. I will and bequeath to my Son William Creed one hundred Acres of Land in Jamaica to be ordered & appointed him by the Major part of my Executors To have and to hold to him and his heires and assignes for Ever And all the rest of my Lands houses and Meadow Ground in what part of the world soever Situate & belonging to me at the time of my Decease either Immediately or in Revertion I give devise and bequeath the same to my two sons William and Augustine to be Equally Divided between them Share and Share alike and to their heires and assignes for Ever, If either of them Dye before he Comes of age of Twenty one years the whole to goe to the Survivour, and if they both die before they Come to age then to next right heires of me the Said William Creed. Also I give to my said two sons Equally to be Divided four horses Eight Cows Two plows Shares &c. one waggon and all my hoes and axes. Allso I give to William my Negro Man Called Joe and to Augustine my Negro boy Called Robin, Item, I give to my Daughter Elizabeth one hundred pounds to be paid to her when she is one and Twenty yeares by her Brother William or by Augustine if William Dye before he Comes of age. Item, I give to my Daughter Sarah one hundred pounds to be paid to her when she is Twenty one Yeares Fifty pounds by her Brother William and Fifty pounds by Augustine or the whole by the Survivour of them two who Shall Inherit the Lands as aforesaid  Item I give to my Daughter Letitia one hundred pounds to be paid to her when she is Twenty one yeares old by her Brother Augustine or by William if Augustine Die before he Comes of age, Item I will order & appoint that my Dear and welbeloved wife shall have the Sole use possession and Enjoyement of my house and plantation where I now live and of all the rest of my Land and Meadows Except as is before Ordered Concerning a Disposition by my Executors and also of all my Negros and other things belonging to my Farm which is before given to my Sons out of the produce whereof to Maintaine herself and our Children so long as She Shall Remaine a widdow but if she happens to Marry againe Then I will that my Executors or Major part of them doe take my Lands and other things given to my Sons into their possession and the same to hire out for Maintainance and good Education of my Children, and I will that my Boys Education be in a particular Manner according to their Genius taken Care of and then I will that my Executors or Major part of them doe Sell my negro Girl Isabell and that the produce of her Sale be made up out of the rest of my plantation to the Same of one hundred pounds which I give to my beloved wife Mary Creed to be paid her within three yeares After her Decease Marriage but not otherwise. And as for all the rest of my personall Estate herein before not Disposed of by me I will that one third part thereof be given to my wife her Executors & administrators and the other two thirds to be Equally Divided amongst my three Daughters Elizabeth Sarah & Letitia to be delivered to Each of them on the day of their Marriage or at the age of Eighteen yeares and if any of my Daughters Die before that time her or their Surviveing Sister or Sisters to Enjoye her or their Sister or Sisters Share or Shares and Lastly I doe hereby nominate Constitute ordaine and appoint my Honoured Father William Creed my two welbeloved Brothers in Law Thomas Cornwell and Thomas Whitehead and my beloved Friend Samuell Clows or the Major part of them (who shall be alive at the putting in Execution of any part of this my will & Testament) my whole and Sole Executors of this my Last will & Testament hereby utterly Revoking all other or former wills by me at any time heretofore made or Executed  In Testimony whereof I have to this my Last will and Testament Containing three Sheets of paper written on one Side and Sealed togeather put my hand and affixed my Seale at Jamaica this First day of May Anno Dm. 1710.

                                                                                                                                                Wm Creed                                            (seal)

Signed Sealed and published by the within named William Creed as his Last will and Testament after Interlineing of these words (be) in line Fourty Eight (Children) in Line Sixty (be) in Line Sixty five In the presence of us

Robert Read

Hendrick Broudber

Andrew Gibb

 

Probated on 16 Apr. 1711, and Letters of Administration were granted to William Creed, Thomas Cornwell and Thomas Whitehead, three of the Executors, Samuell Clowes, the other Executor, having renounced his right of Executorship.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from New York County Probate, Vol. 8, p. 40-43.

 

 

Will of Hannah Cuffs of Plymouth, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1815) *

Commending my Soul to the boundless mercy of God through his Son I Hannah Cuffs of Plymouth in the County of Plymouth dispose of my property as follows –

                I give to my Daughter Hannah Ripley all my Furniture & Apparel excepting as hereafter stated in full of her Share of what I may leave of Property at my Death –

                I give to my Daughter Polly Cuff all my House & Land & Appurtenances, all the Money, Notes & Demands, which I may leave at Death, & one Bedstead & a pair of Flatirons, she paying all my Debts. I also give her a pair of Blankets.—

                I give my Gold Necklace to my Grand daughter Hannah H Ripley, and in Testimony that this is my last Will and Testament, I hereto set my Name & Seal this twenty third day of October in the Year of our Lord eighteen hundred & fifteen —

   Signed sealed & delivered in presence of

                Z Bartlett                                                                                                               Hannah Cuffs                    (seal)

                Benjan. Morton

                Eunice T Simmons

 

Presented for probate on 18 Nov. 1815 by Mary Williams Cuffs of Plymouth, singlewoman, no Executor therein being named, and proved by Zacheus Bartlett Esqr. and Benjamin Morton, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Mary Williams Cuffs, well & faithfully to execute the said Will & to administer the Estate.

 

Mary Williams Cuffs, of Plymouth, Singlewoman, was granted Administration with the Will annexed of the estate of Hannah Cuffs, late of Plymouth, widow, on 18 Nov. 1815.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 47, p. 355-356, from FHL microfilm #0550904, and Vol. 46, p. 439.

 

 

Will of William Curtis of Scituate, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1736) *

In the Name of God Amen the Twenty third Day of October In the Year of our Lord 1736 I William Curtes of Scituate In the County of Plimouth In Newengland Yeoman Being Weak In Body But of perfect Minde and Memory Thanks be give thereunto god therefore Calling to Minde the Mortaillyty of my Body and Knowing that It is appointed for men once to Dye Do make and ordain this my Last Will and testment that is to say

First I Will that all the Just Debts Which I Do owe to any person or persons What Soever Shall be Well and Truly paid In a Convenient Time after my Decease By My Executrs hear after Named out of my personal Estate – Item –

I give and Bequeath to Rachel my Well be Loved Wife the use and Improvement of all my Estate Both Real and personal During the Whole term of her Natural Life or Remariage Which Shall first Happen Excepting So much of my personal Estate as Will pay all my Just Debts,  Item

I give and Bequeath to my son John Curtis the Sum of Ten Shillings In Bills of Creditt to be paid to hime Within one year after my Decease by my Said Wife – Item

I give and Bequeath to my Son William Curtis and to his heirs and assigns forever all my Shair of Cader Swampe Lying In Said Scituate and allso the one half of all the Rest of my Real Estate Without Dores Excepting the Improvement of it above Said  Item

I give and Beqeuath to my Son Samuel Curtes and to his heirs and assigns forever all the Rest of my Real Estate Not Before Disposed of Excepting the Improvement of it as above Expressed – Item –

I give to my Daughter Rachal Curtis the Sum of fifty pounds In Bills of Creditt to be paid to her by my Executor Hearafter Named Within one year after my sd Wifes Decease or Remariage Which Shall first Happen and allso one half of my personel Estate Within Dores or Household goods – Item

I give to my Daughter Elizabeth Curtis the Sum of fifty pounds In Bills of Credite to be paid to her By my Said Son Samuel Curtis Within one year after the Decease or Remariage of my said Wife Which Shall first Happen and allso the other half of my Houshold Goods –

Lastly I ordain Constitute and appointe My Son William Curtis to be The only and Sole Excetor of this My Last Will and Testement  In Wittness Whairof I Haved Hearunto Set my Hand and Seal the Day and year first and above Written Signed Sealed published and

Declared By the Said William Curtis as his Last

Will and Testament In Presents of                                                                                   the marke of

us the Subscribers  viz                                                                                                   William  §  Curtis                                   (seal)

Ensign Cole

David Cole

Caleb Torroy

 

Probated on 17 May 1748, and proved by Ensign Cole, David Cole, and Caleb Torrey, the witnesses.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 12, p. 35-36, from FHL microfilm #0551537.

 

 

Will of William Curtis of Pembroke, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1818) *

        In the name of God amen, the 19th day of August Eighteen hundred and eighteen I William Curtis of Pembroke in the County of Plymouth Gentleman calling to mind the mortality of my body and knowing that it is appointed for all men once to die being advanced in age but of sound disposing mind and memory, thanks be given to God for the same. And first of all I recommend my Soul into the hands of God that gave it and my body to the earth to be decently buried by my Executor hereafter named and touching such worldly Estate as it hath pleased God to bless me with in this life I give and dispose of the same in manner following

Item. I give to my daughter Hannah fifty dollars to be taken out of my household furniture to be appraised to her to make her equal to my other two daughters Polly Trask and Lydia Crooker of what I have given to them and is their shares in full of my Estate as will appear by receipts –

Item I give to my son James and my Son Jacob and the heirs of my Son William deceased all the remainder of my real Estate to be equally divided between them, to them their heirs and assigns forever and I do by these presents impower my Executor to make sale of such of my real Estate for the payment of my debts as he may think best if he shall have occasion to sell the same and I order my Executor to pay all my just debts and charges and if any of my children shall bring any demand against my Estate except note or bond they shall forfeit what I have given them in this Will, and I do constitute and appoint William Loring Esquire Sole Executor to this my last Will and see me decently buried when dead in witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and Seal the day and year above written and declare this to be my last Will and testament in presence of

Lot Keen                                                                                                                               William Curtis                                   (seal)

Joshua Turner

John Turner

 

Presented for probate on 19 Nov. 1821 by William Loring Esquire, the Executor therein named, and proved by Lot Keen and Joshua Turner Junr. two of the witnesses thereto subscribed, John Turner Esquire being now deceased. Letters of Administration were granted to William Loring, the before named Executor.

 

Lot Keene, yeoman, Isaac Hatch, yeoman, of Pembroke, and Joel Peterson, Housewright, of Duxbury, were appointed to appraise the Estate of William Curtis, late of Pembroke, Gentleman, on 19 Nov. 1821. The Inventory of the Estate of William Curtis, late of Pembroke, dated 24 Nov. 1821, totaled $365.91, including his real estate valued at $250. William Loring Esquire, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 5 Mar. 1822.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 54, pp. 230-231, 342-343, from FHL microfilm #0550908.

 

 

Will of Lydia Cushing of Middleborough, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1790) *

In the name of God Amen – I Lydia Cushing of Middleborough in the County of Plymouth & Commonwealth of Massachusetts, widow, being weak in body, but through Gods Goodness, composed in mind, do make & ordain this my Last will and testament. – First of all, I Give and recommend my soul into the hand of God who gave it, and my body to the earth to a decent burial by my executors hereafter mentioned, and as touching such worldly estate as it hath pleased the Lord to bless me with, I now dispose of the same in manner following, after paying my funeral charges & just debts

First – I Give & bequeath to my Daughter Phebe Snow, three pounds Lawful money, to be paid to her in one year after my decease. ~

Second – I Give and bequeath to my Daughter Margaret Vials Six pounds Lawful money to be paid to her in one year after my decease ~

Third – I Give and bequeath to my Daughter Sarah Paddelford three pounds Lawful money, to be paid to her in one year after my decease

Fourth – I Give and bequeath to my Daughter Mary Cushing Thirty pounds Lawful money, with also all my houshold Goods and wearing apparell, to be paid and delivered to her when she is eighteen years of age, and as much of it as she needs before that time, which I Leave to the discretion of her Guardian, and if she should not Live to that age, my will is that said Goods and apparell be equally divided between my said Daughters Margaret Vials and Sarah Paddelford, and the said Thirty pounds in money to be equally divided between my two sons Zatu Cushing and Elisha Cushing –

Fifth – I Give and bequeath to my son Joseph Cushing Thirty pounds Lawfull money, to be paid to him at the age of twenty one years, with Interest after one year from my decease, and as much more as his Guardian shall think proper, besides the Interest, my will is, that he should have if he should need before he is of age, and in case he should not Live to that age, what is not disposed of, of said 30 £ & Interest my will is shall be equally divided between my two said sons Zatu & Elisha

Sixth – I Give and bequeath to my two said Sons Zatu & Elisha all my Estate and Interest that remains not yet disposed of, to be equally divided between them, excepting one pound four shillings I give & bequeath to my cousin Lydia Cook Daughter to Sylvanus Cook of Kingston & County aforesaid, I also constitute, make and ordain said Sylvanus Cook and Seth Cobb, (both of said Kingston & County of Plymouth aforesaid) to be my Executors to this my Last will & testament, and also as Guardians for my two Children under age viz~. Mary & Joseph above named. and I do hereby revoke & disanul, all other wills, testaments or conveyances, and declare this to be my Last will & testament, and I do ratify and confirm to each one & to their heirs as above bequeathed. In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this sixteenth day of June in the year of our Lord one thousand, seven hundred & ninety. ~

Signed, Sealed, pronounced and de-

clared, in presence of us ~                                                                                                 Lydia Cushing                                  (seal)

                Nathl. Foster junr

                Lydia Foster

                Samuel Nelson

 

Presented for probate on 4 July 1791 by Sylvanus Cook and Seth Cobb, the Executors therein named, and proved by Nathaniel Foster junr and Samuel Nelson, two of the witnesses, on 6 Apr. 1791. Letters of Administration were granted to Sylvanus Cook and Seth Cobb, the before named executors, both of Kingston, with Nathaniel Foster junr, of Middleborough, Gentm. and Elias Churchill of Plymton, Gentm. as sureties, on 4 July 1791.

No inventory of her estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 31, p. 390-392, from FHL microfilm #0550716.

 

 

Will of Nathaniel Cushing of Middleborough, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1788) *

In the Name of God Amen – I Nathaniel Cushing of Midleborough in the County of Plymouth &c Ship-builder, being at this time under bodily pains & distresses, but of a sound & disposing mind, remembering the uncertainty of Life and the Certainty of death, do make this my Last will and testament –

1st– I Resign my Soul to God who Gave it, and my body I dismiss to be decently buried in the earth at the discretion of my Executrix herein after named hoping to find mercy and acceptance with God by the merits and mediation of Jesus Christ

2d– As to what temporal Estate God has blessed me with I dispose of it in manner following to wit – I Give to each one of my Children Six Shillings to wit Stephen Cushing, Jemimah Foord Sprague, Nathaniel Cushing, Hannah Spooner, Pagy Vails, Sarah Paddelford, Zattel Cushing, John Cushing, Elisha Stetson Cushing, Molly Cushing, Joseph Cushing, to be paid by my Executrix in two years after my decease, more I Give to my Son Nathaniel a piece of Land Situate by Mattapoysett Harbour in Rochester in the County aforesaid –

3d– All other Estate of every kind that I may die seized, I Give to my true and Loving wife Lydia, she to pay the Legacies above mentioned, all my just debts & funeral Charges

4th– And I do Constitute and appoint my said wife Lydia the only & Sole Executrix of this my Last will & testament this thirteenth day of November A.D. one thousand seven hundred Eighty & Eight

Signed, Sealed & pronounced by the tes-

tator to be his Last will & testament in

the presence of us, who in the presence of                                                                     Nathaniel Cushing                          (seal)

each Other have Subscribed our names

hereunto –             Nathan Sears

                                Heman Higgins

                                Gideon Barstow junr

                                Ebenezer Cannon

                                Ephraim Dexter

                                Caleb Dexter

 

To the Hoñble Joseph Cushing Esqr Judge for the Probate of wills &c for the County of Plymouth

Plymouth 15th April 1789 Whereas I am appointed Sole Executrix to the Last will & testament of my husband Nathaniel Cushing Late of Middlebo deceased, these may Certify that I do decline & Refuse taking upon me the sd trust & executing the same

                                                                                                                                                Lydia Cushing

 

Presented for probate on 15 Apr. 1789 by Lydia Cushing, the Executrix therein named, and proved by Nathan Sears and Ebenezer Cannon, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration with the will annexed were granted to Seth Cobb, Lydia Cushing the before named Executrix having refused.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Nathaniel Cushing, late of Middleborough, Shipwright, was appraised on 25 May 1789 by Silas Peckins, Philip Hathaway, and Zattae Peckins, and totaled only £9.5.6, the piece of land lying on Matapoiset Harbour for a building yard valued at only 12 shillings. Seth Cobb, the Administrator with ye will annexed, gave his oath to the inventory on 3 Aug. 1789, and he notified the court that the estate was insolvent and insufficient to pay all the debts which the sd deceased owed.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 30, p. 555-556, from FHL microfilm #0550716, and Vol. 31, p. 28-29.

 

 

Will and Codicil of Seth Cushing of Plympton, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1760) *

In The Name of God Amen the Eighth Day of August A D 1760 I Seth Cushing of Plimtown in the County of Plymouth in New-England Inholder being under Infirmety of Boddy but of Sound mind do make this my Last will and Testament

First I Recommend My Soul to God that gave it and my body to the Earth to Decent Burial, and Touching Such Earthly Estate as god hath blessed me with in this Life I give the same in manner Following viz

Imps. I Give unto my well beloved wife Lydia Cushing the use & Improvement of ye one third part of all my Real Estate During her Natural Life Also the use & Improvement of two Rooms in my Dwelling house viz a Lower Room & a Chamber which She Shall Chuse also Privelidge in the Celler & Well with Liberty to bake in the oven During the Time She Shall Remain My widdow also I give To my Said wife the whole of my Indoor moveables To be at her own Dispose forever I also give her a mourning Sute of Clothes

Item I Give unto my three Daughters Viz Mary Johnson Margrett Darling and Deborah Samson the Sum of Twenty pounds Lawfull monny a peice To be Paid them in the following manner by my Executor here after named that is to Say to Each of them the Sum of Six pounds thirteen Shillings & eight pence a peice to be Paid them in three years after my Deceas that is To Say One third part of Said Sum pr. annum in full of their portion, with what I have heretofore given them

Item I Give To my Son Seth Cushing the farm where on I now Dwell with the buildings thereon Together with all my out door Moveables together with All the Rest of my Estate both Real & Personal wheresoever the same is or May be found To have & to hold the Same with the appurtenances to him my Said Son Seth his heirs & Assigns forever

Lastly. I do hereby appoint my Said Son Seth Cushing Executor to this my will and order him To Pay my Just Debts and funeral Charges and the Legacies Given to his sisters and perform what is ordered for my Said wife before mend. out of the Estate herein given him In witness whereof I have hereunto Set my hand and Seal the Day & year afore written

Signed Sealed published and Declared

by Said Seth Cushing to be his Last

Will & Testament                                                                                                               Seth Cushing                                     (seal)

                In Presenc of

                Gideon White

                Ebenr Cole

                Edward Winslow

 

                                                                                                Plymouth Augt. 8th 1760

Item Notwithstanding any thing heretofore Expressed in this My Said will I do see Caus By this Codicil To give unto my Daughter Deborah Samson besides what I have hereto fore given her a further Sum of thirteen pounds Six Shillings & Eight pence Lawfull monny to be Paid her by my Executor aforesaid within two months after my Deceas also the Bed & furniture thereto belonging on which She usually Lodges which I Judge is no more than will make her Equal with her Sisters Considering what I have here before given them. In witness whereof I have hereunto Set my hand & Seal the day afore written

                                                                                                Signed Sealed Published & Declared In Presence of

Gideon White

Ebenr. Cole

Edward Winslow                                                                                                                  Seth Cushing                                     (seal)

 

Presented for probate on 1 June 1761 by the Executor, and proved by Ebenr. Cole and Edward Winslow, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Seth Cushing of Plimton, the Executor, on 1 June 1761, with Joseph Cushing and Caleb Turner, both of Hanover, Gent., as sureties.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 16, p. 150-152, from FHL microfilm #0551543.

 

 

Will of Seth Cushing of Plympton, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1810) *

Know all men by these presents that I Seth Cushing of Plympton in the County of Plymouth being in the Seventy eighth year of my Age, do make that is hereafter written & subscribed with regard to my Real & personal Estate to be my last will and Testament without any further Ceremony or Formality & do request the Judge of Probate of wills for the County abovesd. for the time being to approve of the same.

1. That my just debts & funeral charges to be paid by my Executor hereafter named—

2. I give unto my eldest Son Seth my Cane that hath a crooked head & a small pair of Steelyards which I suppose is his Share with which he has already had—

3. I give unto four of my Daughters viz Polly Bonney Wife of Joseph Bonney & Lydia Paddock wife of John Paddock & Susanna Thomson Wife of Timothy Thomson & Ruth Bradford Wife of Stephen Bradford in twelve months after my decease ten Dollars to each of them and to Seth Thomas, Son of Hannah Thomas deceased, ten Dollars if he is alive at twenty one years, and to Love Harlow Daughter of Rachel Harlow deceased if she liveth to eighteen Years, ten Dollars —

4. I give to my Daughter Sarah & Son John my Dwelling house & Barn & Shed & the Land on which they stand as hereafter described viz Beginning at a Stake standing on the northerly side of the Road two Poles to the eastward of a long stone standing nearly opposite of James Cushing’s house from thence northerly to a Stake standing on a Ditch two Poles to the Eastward of a small White Oak standing on the side of said Ditch, thence eastward on said Ditch untill it comes to a turn in said Ditch, that turns to the northward untill it comes to a Stone wall thence by sd. Stone Wall untill it comes to the End of sd. Wall to an Apple tree, thence northerly a straight Course to a Stake standing by the Edge of Barrow’s Brook, six feet to the Eastward of the Castway that goes over the Brook thence downstream by said Brook untill it comes to the Spring Brook thence southward by said Brook untill it comes to the northeast corner of the Land that I sold unto Josiah west thence by said Land westerly & southerly untill it come to the Highway, thence westerly by the Highway untill it comes to the Bound first mentioned, Also the northerly half of my Woodlot lying in Halifax joining Jones River Pond the above described premises I give one third part to my Daughter Sarah and the other two thirds to my Son John –

5 Also I give unto my Daughter Sarah the Loom and Tackling with all my indoor moveables that are not disposed of before my decease—

Also I give my Son John a Piece of Fresh Meadow & swampy Land lying in Kingston & was the Meadow & swamp that was set off to the Widow Silence Everson Widow of John Everson deceased as part of her thirds or dower, also all my Pew rights in Plympton meeting house also my Chaise —

6th I give unto my Son James the Residue of my Estate both real & personal when & wherever it may be found that I have not disposed of before my decease also my Desk with all the papers it contains —

7th I do hereby appoint my Son James Cushing sole Executor to this my last Will & Testament and to pay all my just debts & funeral Charges & Legacies as above expressed, and see this executed according to Law & Justice and in Testimony whereof I hereunto set my hand & Seal this fifth day of June one thousand eight hundred & ten in Plympton in presence of –

Isaac Churchill

Zenas Bryant

Jabez Weston                                                                                                                       Seth Cushing                                     (seal)

 

Presented for probate on 2 July 1810 by James Cushing, the Executor therein named, and proved by Isaac Churchill, Zenas Bryant and Jabez Weston, the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to James Cushing, the before named Executor.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 43, p. 236-237, from FHL microfilm #0550902.

 

 

Will of Allerton Cushman of Plympton, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1730) *

Know all Men by these Presents that I Allerton Cushman of Plimton in ye County of Plymouth in New-England Yeoman Being at this present time infirm & weak in Body but of Sound & Disposing Mind & Memory Blessed be God for it, Do Make & Ordain this to be my last Will & Testament to remain firm & inviolable forever

First I Will that all Debts I do owe in Right or Conscience to any manner of Person or Persons whatsoever shall be well & truly Contented & Paid by my Executor hereafter named in convenient time after my Decease—Item I Give to my beloved Wife Elizabeth Cushman the third Part of the Improvement of my whole real Estate till my Son Allerton comes to twenty one years of age. I also Give to my Wife the whole Improvement of my House & Land I bought of Jabez Newland during her natural Life. I like wise Give to my Wife ye value of ye Sum of fourty Pounds to be Set off to her out of my personal Estate, That is to Say I Give unto my Wife one feather bed and furniture thereunto belonging, and so much more of my personal Estate as shall make ye sd Sum of fourty Pounds as it shall be prised by two indifferent Men chosen by my Wife & my Executr. hereafter Named, which sd Value of fourty Pounds I Give to my Wife to be at her Dispose forever—. I also Give to my Wife the Improvement of ye value of Sixty Pounds to be raised out of my personal Estate as it shall be prized as abovesd So long as She remains my Widow, But when she shall Marry again then the sd Sum of Sixty Pounds shall return to my Son Joseph Cushman to him his Heirs and assigns forever, And my Will is further that if my sd Son Joseph shall Decease before he comes to ye Age of twenty one years then the Abovesd Sixty Pounds shall return to my Surviving Children. I also Constitute Ordain & appoint my beloved Brother Josiah Cushman of Plimton aforesd to be my Sole Executr to this my last Will & Testament Thus hoping that this my last Will & Testament will be kept & performed according to ye true Intent & Meaning there of I Commit my Body to the Dust & my Soul to God that gave it: In Witness whereof I have hereunto Set my hand & seal this Sixteenth day of October in ye Year of Our Lord One thousand Seven hundred and thirty — 1730 —

Signed Sealed Published Pronounced &

Declared by ye sd Allerton Cushman as                                                                          Allerton Cushman                           (seal)

his last Will & Testament in the

Presence of us the Subscribers

James Harlow

Elizabeth Cushman

John Bell

 

January the 25: 1730 — The Within named James Harlow Elizabeth Cushman and John Bell made Oath that they saw ye Within namd Allerton Cushman Sign Seal & heard him Declare the within named Instrument to be his last Will & Testamt. and that they at ye same time in ye Presence of ye. said Testator Set to their hands as Witnesses and that according to the best of yr. Observation he then was of a sound & disposing Mind & Memory  Before Isaac Winslow

                                                                                                                                                Judge of Probate

 

The inventory of ye Personal Estate of Allerton Cushman late of Plimton deceased was taken January 30th 1730/31 by Samuel Bradford, Francis Adams & Ignatius Cushing, but not totaled, and sworn to by Josiah Cushman, the Executor, on March ye 5: 1730/31.

 

The distribution of the personal estate of Allerton Cushman, late of Plympton, set off by Josiah Cushman, of Plympton, the Executor, mentioned:

To the widow

To Capt. Caleb Loring, guardian to Mary Cushman

To James Harlow, guardian to James Cushman

To Josiah Cushman, guardian to Allerton Cushman

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 6, pp. 2-3, 4-5, 12, from FHL microfilm #0550512.

 

 

Will of Benjamin Cushman of Plympton, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1807) *

  In the name of God amen. I Benjamin Cushman of Plympton in the County of Plymouth & Commonwealth of Massachusetts Yeoman considering the Uncertainty of this Mortal Life, & being of sound & perfect Mind & Memory, blessed be almighty God for the same, do make & publish this my last Will & Testament in Manner & form as following, that is to say —

        First I give and bequeath to my two eldest Daughters Joanna & Zilpha Cushman the use & Improvement of my Homestead Farm together with my Dwelling House and all the Buildings standing on the same, also all my out Lands to occupy, cultivate & improve at their own Discretion & as they shall see fit for & during their natural Lives, with all the privileges belonging to the above premises –

        And it is further my Will that after the decease of my two Daughters above named that the above premises be divided into six equal shares, & that my three Sons Caleb Cushman, Joseph Cushman & Benjamin Cushman junr. & my two Daughters Zerviah Chandler & Sarah Fuller have five of the above shares to be equally divided among them & that my three Grandchildren viz Jacob, Irena & Winslow B. Cushman all Children of my Son Jacob Cushman have one share to be equally divided among them –

        I will & bequeath unto my eldest Son Jacob Cushman one Dollar to be paid out of my personal Estate by my Executor hereafter named –

        And I do further will & bequeath to my two eldest Daughters Joanna & Zilpha Cushman the whole of my personal Estate after paying my just debts & funeral Charges, to dispose of as they shall see fit –

        And I do hereby constitute & appoint Zebedee Chandler of Plympton my sole Executor of this my last will & Testament, hereby revoking all former Wills by me made in Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand & seal this fourteenth day & November in the Year of our Lord one Thousand eight hundred & seven

Signed sealed published & declared by the above

named Benjamin Cushman to be his last Will &

Testament in the presence of us who have hereunto                                                    Ben. Cushman                                  (seal)

subscribed our Names as Witnesses in presence of the Testator

                John Bisbe

                Josiah Perkins

                Noah Bisbe –

 

To the Hon Joshua Thomas Esqr. Judge of Probate for the County of Plymouth –

The Subscriber having been nominated Executor in the last Will & Testament of Benjamin Cushman late of Plympton in said County yeoman deceased informs your Honour that it being inconvenient for him to take upon him said Trust hereby declares his refusal of the same –

        Plympton April 6th. 1813 ~~                                                                                      Zebedee Chandler –

 

Presented for probate on 6 Apr. 1813 by John Faunce Esqr. of Kingston in said County, Zebedee Chandler the Executor therein named having refused said Trust, and proved by John Bisbe and Josiah Perkins, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to John Faunce Esqr.

 

John Faunce, of Kingston, Esqr., was granted administration with the Will annexed of the Estate of Benjamin Cushman, late of Plympton, Yeoman, on 6 Apr. 1813.

 

Oliver Parker, Lemuel Cobb, and Isaiah Ripley junr., all of Plympton, yeomen, were appointed to appraise the estate of Benjamin Cushing [sic], late of Plympton, Yeoman, on 6 Apr. 1813. The Inventory of the Estate of Benjamin Cushman, late of Plympton, not dated or totaled, included his homestead farm containing 30 acres with the buildings valued at $705, and his personal estate totaling $370.23. John Faunce Esqr, the Administrator with the will annexed, gave his oath to the inventory on 3 May 1813, and he notified the court that the estate is insufficient to pay all his just debts.

 

Timothy Ripley and Peleg Wright, Yeomen, and Isaiah Ripley Junr., Gentleman, all of Plympton, were appointed to set off one third part of the Real Estate of Benjamin Cushman, late of Plympton, Yeoman, to his Widow Zerviah Cushman as her dower in said real estate for her use during her natural life, on 1 Nov. 1813. The division was dated 3 Jan. 1814, and approved the same day.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 44, p. 523-524, from FHL microfilm #0550903, Vol. 39, p. 460-461, Vol. 44, p. 532, and Vol. 45, p. 214.

 

 

Will of Earl Cushman of Middleborough, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1847) *

        I Earl Cushman of Middleborough County of Plymouth and State of Massachusetts do make and ordain this my last Will and Testament in the following words, to wit.

1  I do hereby give and bequeath to my beloved wife Wealthy Cushman the use and improvement of all my estate both real and personal so long as she remains my widow

2d. I do also give and bequeath to my son Earl Henry Cushman two thirds of all my estate both real and personal after the 2d marriage or decease of my Wife aforenamed for his use and behoof forever.

3   I do further give and bequeath to my daughter Lucy Cushman one third of all my estate both real and personal after the 2d. marriage or decease of my Wife aforenamed for his [sic] use and behoof forever.

4  After paying out of my property my debts and funeral expenses, I do further give to my son Earl Henry above named the sum of two hundred dollars to be paid in one year from my decease.

5  A I do further appoint Morrell Robinson of said Middleborough to be my sole executor of this my last Will and testament hereby revoking all former Wills.

        In testimony hereof I do hereunto set my hand and seal on this Twenty second day of April in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and forty seven.

                                                                                                                                                Earl Cushman

        Signed, sealed, proclaimed and delivered.

        before us.

                Calvin Shaw

                Apollos Eaton

                Betsey Brett

 

                                                I decline the trust of Executor of the within will

                                                                                                                                                Morrill Robinson

 

Presented for probate on the first Tuesday of Aug. 1847 by Morrill Robinson, the Executor therein named, and proved by Calvin Shaw, Apollos Eaton and Betsey Brett, the Witnesses thereto subscribed. No assignment of an administrator or inventory of the estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 89, p. 287-288, and Probate Docket #5802 was checked for any additional records.

 

 

Will of Eleazer Cushman of Plympton, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1758) *

        Know all Men by these Presents that I Eleazer Cushman of the Town of Plimpton in the County of Plimouth in New-England being at Present sick & weak of body, but of Sound & Disposing Mind & memory thanks be go God for the same and being Senseable of my own Mortality do Make and Ordain this to be my last Will & Testament to Remain firm and Inviolable forever as followeth ~

I Give and Bequeath unto my well & dutifull wife Eunis Cushman all my Estate both real & personall after my Just debts and funerall charges & first paid out of the same to her & her Heirs and assigns forever,

I do hereby Constitute and Appoint my well beloved wife Eunis Cushman aforesaid to be Execx. of this my Last Will and Testament, Thus Hoping that this my last will & Testament will be Observed according to the true intent & meaning thereof, I do hereto Set my hand & Seal this 22d. day of Febry, 1758. ~~

Signed Sealed & Declared in the Presence of                                                                Eleazer Cushman                            (seal)

        John Rickard

        Judath Faunce

        Nehemiah Bennett

 

Presented for probate on 2 May 1758 by the Execx. therein named, and proved by John Rickard and Nehemiah Bennett, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to the Widow Eunis Cushman, the Executrix, on 2 May 1758, with John Tillson, Husbandman, of Plimpton, and Hezekiah Stodder, Housewright, of Scituate, as sureties.

 

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 14, p. 509-510, from FHL microfilm #0551542.

 

 

Will of Eleazer Cushman of Willington, Tolland County, Connecticut (1793) *

                In the name of God, amen. I Eleazer Cushman of Willington in the County of Tolland & State of Connecticut being far advanced in age & of a sound disposing mind and memory, Thanks given to God therefor; and calling to mind that it is appointed for man once to die, and after death the Judgement do make and ordain this to be my last Will and Testament, that is to say first I recommend my soul to God who gave it and my body to be buried in a decent christian manner at the discretion of my Executor hereafter appointed – In the first place I do hereby appoint my son Eleazer Cushman to be my Executor to this my last will and Testament. –

                I give and bequeath to my loving wife Abigail the use and Improvement of the one half of all the lands I now own together with the use of the west part of the house where I now live it being the whole of my part of the house after my just debts and funeral charges are paid for and during her natural life. I also give to my sd. wife all my houshold furniture to be at her disposal forever –

                I give to my son Eleazer Cushman the other half of my lands forever to be at his disposal together with those lands and buildings given to my wife after her decease he paying my just debts funeral charges and the Legacies hereafter mentioned –

                I give to my son Eliphalet three pounds lawful money to be paid by my Executor within one year after the decease of my sd. wife, which together with what I have already given him will be his share of my estate

                I give to my son Thomas, five pounds £, my. to be paid by my sd. Executor within two years after the decease of my said wife, which with what I have already given him will be his share of my estate –

                I give to my Daughter Abigail Carpenter, twenty shillings lawful money to be paid by my sd. Executor in three years after the decease of my sd. wife, which with what I have already given her will be her share of my estate –

                I also give to my Daughter Chloe five pounds lawful money to be paid by my sd. Executor at the decease of my sd. wife, together with the priviledge of keeping a Cow the year round out of those lands I have given to my Executor every year so long as she remains single – I also give her liberty to live in that part of the house given to my sd. wife so long as she continues to live single –

                The remainder and residue of my estate not before given away I give to my sd. three sons equally to be divided – I do hereby declare this to be my last Will and Testament, revoking and disannulling all other Wills be me made – In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this 24th day of January AD 1793

Signed sealed and delivered                                                                                              Eleazar Cushman                         (seal)

in presence of –

Richard Pearl

Miner Grant

Eunice Grant –

 

Proved on 8 Aug. 1797 by Richard Pearl, Miner Grant and Eunice Grant, the witnesses.

 

The Inventory of the goods, Chattels and estate of Mr. Eleazar Cushman late of Willington decd. appraised on 17 Apr. 1797 by Rufus Fisher and John Goodwill totaled $863.44, including 38 acres of land, part of a house and barn valued at $333.34.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Town of Stafford Register of Probate Records Vol. 4, p. 272-273, from FHL microfilm #0005743.

 

 

Will of Elias Cushman of Middleborough, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1828) *

Be it remembered that I Elias Cushman of Middleborough in the County of Plymouth & Commonwealth of Massachusetts, do on this tenth day of June in the Year of Our Lord One thousand eight hundred and twenty eight, make and publish this my last Will and Testament in manner following, Viz:

        Imprimis, I give and bequeath to my beloved Wife Charity Cushman all my household Goods, my Silver Watch, Meal tubs and Cider Casks, (excepting one bed and bedding, my desk and gun,) Also I give to her all my neat stock, horses, sheep, swine, my chaise, pleasure Wagon, riding sleigh and the harnesses belonging to the same, and all the provisions which I may leave, Also I give to her all the Notes which are given in her name to her and to her disposal forever. Also I give to her the use & improvement of one third part of my homestead farm and the buildings thereon during her natural life.

        Item, I give and bequeath to my brother Zebulon Cushman One hundred and fifty dollars, to be paid out of my estate by my Executor in one year after my decease. Also one half of my wearing apparel.

        Item, I give and bequeath to my brother Isaac Cushman fifty dollars to be paid out of my estate by my Executor in one year after my decease. Also one half of my wearing Apparel.

        Item, I give and bequeath to my sisters Sarah Morton, Olive Vaughn, Betsey Vaughan, Hannah Thomas, and Rebecca Cushman One hundred dollars to each of them to be paid out of my estate by my Executor in one year after my decease.

        Item, I give and bequeath to my Nephew Zebulon Cushman Junior the use and improvement of that piece or lot of land which I hold by deed under the hand of Patience Purrington, Widow, deceased, during his natural life, and after the decease of the said Zebulon Cushman Jun. I give and devise to his heirs the said lot of land forever to be equally divided between them.

        Item, I give and bequeath to my Nephew Isaac Cushman 3d One hundred and eighty dollars to be paid out of my estate by my Executor in one year after my decease, Also I give to him a legacy of One hundred dollars which my Uncle Abraham Miller gave me in his last Will and Testament.

        Item, I give and bequeath to my Nephew Joseph H. Cushman One hundred and twenty dollars to be paid out of my estate by my Executor in one year after my decease.

        Item, I give and devise to my Nephew Elias Cushman 3d all the rest residue and remainder of my Estate, both Real & Personal of any name or nature to him and his heirs and assigns forever, he paying all my just debts and the several legacies above named.

Lastly, I do appoint my said Nephew Elias Cushman 3d my Executor of this my last Will and Testament. In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal the day and year above written.

                                                                                                                                                Elias Cushman                 (seal)

Signed, sealed and published by the said Elias Cushman declaring this to be his last Will and Testament in presence of us, who at his request were called as witnesses to the same and in his presence did hereunto subscribe our names.

        Darius Miller

        Abigail T. Miller

        Seth Miller

 

Presented for probate on 20 Feb. 1832, and proved by Darius Miller and Seth Miller, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were given to Elias Cushman 3d, of Middleborough, yeoman.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 72, p. 27-29, from FHL microfilm #0555261.

 

 

Will of Elkanah Cushman of Plympton, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1725) *

Know all men by These Presents that I Elkanah Cushman of ye Town of Plympton in ye County in New: England being at this Present time in Health & of Sound & disposing mind & memory & understanding blessed be God for it, do make & ordain this to be my last will & Testament to Remain firm & Inviolable forever. Imprimis: I give & Bequeath unto my Son Allerton Cushman; & unto my Daughter martha Holmes Each of them twenty Pounds; and unto my two grand daughters Elisabeth Delanoe & Hannah Cushman Each of them five Pounds. Item: I give & Bequeath unto my two Sons Allerton Cushman & Josiah Cushman all ye Rest of my Estate both Real & Personal & also all ye money or Bills of Credit which I Shall have at ye time of my decease; and also all ye debts that Shall then be due unto me; my Just Debts & funeral charges being first Paid out of ye same; and my Will is that my sd two Sons Allerton & Josiah Shall be Executors of this my Last Will & Testament; Thus Hoping that this my Last Will & Testament Will be kept & Performed according to ye true Intent & meaning thereof; I comitt my Body to ye Dust & my Soul to God that gave it: In Wittness where of I ye aforesaid Elkanah Cushman have hereunto Sett my Hand & Seal this fourteenth day of october one thousand Seven Hundred twenty & five

Signed Sealed & Declared by ye

above named Elkanah Cushman

to be His Last will & Testament                                                                                      Elkanah Cushman           (seal)

In ye Presence of us

Jacob Tompson

John Tompson Junr

Barnabas Tompson

 

September ye 22d 1727.  The above named John Tompson Junr & Barnabas Tompson made oath yt they saw ye above named Elkanah Cushman late of Plympton in ye County of Plymouth deceased Sign Seal & heard him declare ye above written Instrument to be His Last Will & Testament at yt at ye same time they together with Jacob Tompson Sett to their Hands as wittnesses & yt also according to ye best of their observation He then was of a Sound & disposing mind & memory

                                                                                                                                                Before Isaac Winslow Judge of Probates

 

Letter of administration on the estate of Elkanah Cushman, late of Plympton, was granted on 26 Sept. 1727 to Josiah Cushman, one of the sons of the said deceased, and one of the executors therein named, the other executor named, Allerton Cushman, having refused the executorship. No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 5, p. 330-331, from FHL microfilm #0550511.

 

 

Will of Ezekiel Cushman of Rochester, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1830) *

        Be it remembered that I Ezekiel Cushman of Rochester in the County of Plymouth do this day which is the first day of Decr. One thousand eight hundred & thirty being of a sound mind & memory calling to mind the mortality of man I do make & ordain this my last will and Testament.

        Firstly I commit my spirit to God who gave it & my body to the Earth to be buried by my Friends in a decent manner, as touching my Earthly estate I do dispose of it in the following manner Viz –

Item  I do give & bequeath to my wife Abigail Cushman the whole improvement of all I do possess or am seized of both Real & personal Estate which I do not otherwise dispose of for her to improve or make use of in What way she thinks best so long as she remains my widow  —  If the income of my real and personal estate is not sufficient for her Comfortable support she may dispose of so much of the personal estate Money or stock after my debts are paid as her circumstances need so long as she remains unmarried and no longer except the household furniture that she may have during her natural life

Item 2: I do give to my daughter Sophia Bryant 40. Dollars –

Item 3. I do give to my son Harvey Cushman twenty dollars and all of my wearing apparel to be delivered to him when I have done with them if called for –

Item 4. I do give to my daughter Almira Davies One hundred dollars

Item 5. I do give to my daughter Eliza Pierce One hundred dollars –

Item 6  I do give to my daughter Abigail Cushman two hundred dollars.

All of the above Legacies & sums of money I will & order to be paid to the said respective Legatees within twelve months after the marriage or death of my widow Abigail Cushman Except my wearing clothes & twenty dollars, which is to be paid to Harvey Cushman when called for after my death.

Item 7. I do give to my son Bartlett Cushman my mahogany desk & Bookcase.

Item 8. I give to Gilson Cushman my cherry desk & case both to be received when their Mother has done with them.

Item 9. I do give to my daughter Abigail Cushman one good Bed, Bedstead, Cord & so much as will clothe one Bed well in Bed clothes the above to be delivered to her at my death. I do give to Abigail Cushman my best case of drawers & one of the best Tables, and Clock & Cook stove with its furniture and one cup board standing in the room with the stove the last named articles to be delivered at the marriage of my widow or her death.

Item 10. I do give to my two daughters to be equally divided between them Viz Almira Davis & Abigail Cushman, the whole of my household furniture which I have not otherwise disposed of, after their Mother has done with it to be theirs forever. I do give to Sophia Bryant, Almira Davis, Eliza Peirce & Abigail Cushman, the whole of my horned Cattle, Hogs & money and notes debts due me after paying out my debts, & funeral charges & my wife Abigail Cushman has done with them if there be any thing left my will is that it shall be equally divided between my four daughters, to be theirs, their heirs, & assigns forever.

Item 11  I do give to my two daughters Almira Davis & Abigail Cushman so long as they do live single & unmarried the whole of the improvement of my dwelling house in which I now live together with the wood house, Corn house, with the lot of land on which they stand and all of the privileges belonging thereunto except the Carpenters shop. – The lot of land which they are to improve with the building is bounded as follows Viz beginning about 5 rods southwest from my dwelling house by the road, thence northerly by the road 14 rods, thence easterly 7 rods to the land of L. Perkins thence southerly & westerly by the land on which L. Perkins now lives to the first mentioned–bounds All of which the above named, Almira Davis & Abigail shall have the improvement of so long as they live unmarried together with the privileges of having one Cow. Kept on the farm, on which I now live summer & winter without anymore expense to them than driving & Milking

Item 12. I do give to my daughters Almira Davis & Abigail Cushman eight Cords of wood per year 4 cords of Oak & 4 of pine to be cut & drawn to their door every fall by my two sons Bartlett Cushman & Gilson Cushman or their heirs or assigns so long as the above named Almira & Abigail do live unmarried–the above named Cow is to be equally well provided for, Summer & winter by Bartlett & Gilson Cushman or their heirs or assigns

All of the above Legacies my two daughters Almira Davis & Abigail–shall have the improvement of during their natural lives unless they forfeit those conditional Legacies by marriage if one of the Sisters Almira or Abigail marries or dies before the other she shall leave to the surviving or other Sister all the property both had in the buildings Land, Cow & wood when when Almira & Abigail are both married or dead, I do give to my two Sons Bartlett Cushman & Gilson Cushman to them their heirs & assigns forever the whole of both my real & personal estate after they have paid out my debts & legacies and their Mother & Sisters have done with it, what is left to be equally divided between Bartlett Cushman & Gilson & their heirs & assigns forever.

And I do appoint Bartlett Cushman the sole executor on this my last will and testament and I do revoke all other wills before made by me and do establish this as my last will & testament in testimony of which I do hereunto set my hand & Seal this first day of December One thousand eight hundred & thirty.

                                                                                                                                                Ezekiel Cushman                             (seal)

Signed sealed, published & delivered by the said Ezekiel Cushman to be his last will & Testament in presence of us, who at his request and in his presence have set our names as witnesses to the same –

                Lothrop Perkins

                Bradford Sherman

                Dennis Sherman

 

Presented for probate on 2 May 1832, and proved by Lothrop Perkins and Bradford Sherman, two of the witnesses.

 

Lothrop Perkins Esq., Bradford Sherman, and Dennis Sherman, all of Rochester, freeholders, were appointed to appraise the estate of Ezekiel Cushman, late of Rochester, on 17 Feb. 1832. The Inventory, dated 20 Feb. 1832, totaled $3404.55, including his homestead farm valued at $2233.00. No executor’s oath was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 72, pp. 193-197, from FHL microfilm #0555261.

 

 

Will of Ezra Cushman of Duxbury, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1854) *

                Know all men by these presents, that I Ezra Cushman of Duxbury, in the County of Plymouth, and Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Yeoman, being of sound disposing mind and memory, do make and publish this my last Will and Testament.

                And my Will is 1st that after my decease, my body shall be decently buried, and that my funeral charges and all my just debts shall be paid by my Executor herein after named.

2d.          I give and devise to my grand daughters, Alice R. Bradford and Sarah E. Bradford, children of my late daughter Sarah Bradford, one half of my wood-lot, known by the name of Peter’s lot, and lying on the South side of the road leading from Barton to Hatch’s bars, so called.

3d.          I give and devise to my son John W. Cushman, or his heirs, all the rest and residue of my estate, both real, personal and mixed, of every name and nature of which I shall die seized and possessed, or to which I shall be entitled at the time of my decease.

        Lastly. I ordain and appoint my son John W. Cushman as executor of this my last Will and Testament.

                In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and seal, and publish and declare this to be my last Will and Testament, in presence of the witnesses named below, this twenty seventh day of March in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and fifty four.

                Signed, sealed, published and declared by the said Ezra Cushman, as and for his last Will and Testament, in presence of us, who at his request and in his presence, and in the presence of each other have subscribed our names as Witnesses hereto.

        Jos. F. Wadsworth                                                                                                       Ezra Cushman                                  (seal)

        Seth C. Cushing

        Levi H. Cushing

 

Presented fore probate on the second Monday of Apr. 1855 by John W. Cushman, the Executor therein named, and proved by Joseph F. Wadsworth and Seth C. Cushing, two of the Witnesses whose names are subscribed thereto.

 

John W. Cushman was appointed as Executor of the estate on 9 Apr. 1855.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 97, p. 132-134, from FHL microfilm #0555643.

 

 

Will of Gardner Cushman of Rochester, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1816) *

In the name of God I Gardner Cushman of Rochester in the County of Plymouth Cordwainer, this twenty fifth day of November in the Year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred & sixteen being of a sound & disposing Mind & Memory calling to Mind the Mortality of Man do make & ordain this my last Will and Testament & first I give my Soul to God who gave it & my Body to the Earth to be buried in a decent and Christian like Manner at the Disposal of my Friends & as touching my worldly Estate I do dispose of it in the following Manner & Form–

                I give & bequeath to my beloved Brothers viz Ezekiel Cushman Cephas, Allarton & Benjamin Thomas the whole of my wearing Apparel to be equally divided between them, & to be delivered to them at my decease by my Executor

                I also give to my beloved Mother Judith Cushman the Remainder of both my real & personal Estate to be hers & her Heirs & Executors & assigns forever.—

                Item I do appoint Allarton Cushman to be the sole Executor of this My last will and Testament —  In Testimony of which I do hereto set my hand & Seal this twenty fifth day of November in the Year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred & sixteen —

signed sealed published & declared

by the said Gardner Cushman to be his

last Will & Testament in presence of us,

        Ezekiel Cushman                                                                                                        Gardner Cushman                          (seal)

        John Wallis Junr.

        Abishai Rogers.

 

Presented for probate on 17 Dec. 1816 by Allarton Cushman, the Executor therein named, and proved by Ezekiel Cushman and John Wallis Junr, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Allarton Cushman, the before named Executor.

 

To the Hon Joshua Thomas Esqr. Judge of Probate for the County of Plymouth

I hereby give your Honour to understand that I have relinquished and do hereby relinquish the Bequest made me in the Will of Gardner Cushman late of Rochester in the County of Plymouth Cordwainer deceased

                Rochester December 17th. 1816

Attest     Beza Hayward                                                                                                     Ezekiel Cushman

                John Wallis Junr.

 

Gideon Hammond, Gentleman, Isaac Barrows, and James Hammond, Yeomen, all of Rochester, were appointed to appraise the estate of Gardner Cushman, late of Rochester, Cordwainer, on 17 Dec. 1816. The Inventory of the Estate of Gardner Cushman, late of Rochester, dated 14 Mar. 1817, totaled $2211.50, including his real estate valued at $1955. Allarton Cushman, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 17 Mar. 1817.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 48, pp. 278-279, 394, from FHL microfilm #0550905.

 

 

Will and Codicil of Hercules Cushman of Middleborough, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1832) *

In the name of God, Amen, I Hercules Cushman of Middleborough in the County of Plymouth & Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Counsellor at Law do make, ordain and declare this instrument to be my last Will & Testament revoking all others.

        Imprimis, All my just debts and funeral charges are to be punctually & speedily paid & my wife & children are to be provided with suitable mourning apparel and the family provision which shall remain on hand at my decease are to be left for the use of my wife & children without the interference of my Executor so long as they shall constitute one family.

        Item, I give & bequeath to my wife & children their respective wearing apparel & to my son William Hercules Cushman I give & bequeath my own wearing apparel, my gold watch, and my shares in the Social Library in said Middleborough for which I have recently subscribed.

        Item, I give & bequeath to my beloved wife Elizabeth P. Cushman the sum of One hundred dollars in cash to be paid to her by my Executor within three months after my decease.

        Item, My Will is & I hereby order & empower my Executor herein named, within a reasonable time after my decease, having regard to the condition of the family to make sale of all the Real Estate not herein specifically devised of which I may die seized wherever the same may be situated & to make Deeds thereof conveying the same to be held in fee simple & also to make sale of all all such personal estate as I may die seized of & which is not herein specifically devised; and in making the sales he is to make the best of the Estate which it may be in his power to do; Such of my personal estate as consists of Bank Stock & Insurance Stock I hereby except from the aforesaid order of Sale to my Executor leaving the sale to his discretion.

        Item, I give & bequeath to my only son William Hercules Cushman all my right, and interest in the lot of land & the buildings thereon standing situated at the four corners in said Middleborough which was formerly owned by Daniel Thomas and now owned by myself and Peter H. Peirce, Esquire, my Copartner in trade there in equal purparties; to have and to hold to said William Hercules and to his heirs & assigns forever. Also I give & bequeath to said William Hercules and to his heirs & assigns all my right & interest in the stock in trade in & connected with the Store on said lot of land, including the goods in said Store, the debts due to the Copartnership of Hercules Cushman and Company and such erections on said lot of land as have been made by the means of the funds of said Company, my right and interest in the whole being one undivided half part thereof, the other moiety thereof being owned by my said Copartner Peter H. Peirce Esquire, on this condition however that said William Hercules pay the full amount of one half part of the debts which said Company shall owe at the time of my decease. And further it being my intention that my said son William Hercules should have in full half part of all the property & estate of which I may die seized over & above the said wearing apparel, watch and library shares, devised to him in this my Will & no more than a half part, my Will is and I hereby declare it as my special direction to my Executor that for the purpose of ascertaining the value of the Estate hereby bequeathed to said William Hercules, my right & interest shall be valued and estimated at the sum of One thousand dollars & no more, which sum I consider to be the fair worth of that property aside from the building recently erected thereon and and that building having been erected with the funds of said Copartnership. I further declare it to be my Will and special direction to my Executor that the Stock in trade, goods in store & debts due which I have herein devised to said William Hercules shall not be particularly inventoried, nor an account of Stock taken otherwise than as herein after directed, that is to say the value of said stock goods and debts devised and aforesaid is to be ascertained by striking a balance of my accounts on the Books of said Copartnership; I therefore direct & my Will is that my said Copartner Peter H. Peirce Esquire shall liquidate that account; the Books will shew the amount of funds which I have furnished to said Copartnership & all credits of every sort to which I am entitled; and also the amount of property of all sorts which I have withdrawn from said Copartnership & the balance of that account as it shall be liquidated & settled by my said Copartner shall be deemed and taken to be the true value of the said Stock in trade, goods and debts due above devised to the said William Hercules; and a certificate under the hand of my said Copartner stating the true balance in my favor on said Books shall be conclusive evidence & the sole guide to my Executor in ascertaining the value of said stock in trade, goods and debts due which I have herein devised to said William Hercules; I make no allowance for profits which may be nothing or if any thing they are not to be taken into the account but are to be considered as included in the said devise to said William Hercules, my design being to give and bequeath to him my whole right and interest in said lot of land, store & buildings, goods, debts due to said firm and indeed the whole establishment, he paying one half of the debts which said Company may owe & the whole devise to take effect at the time of my decease so as to include all the goods & property of a said Copartnership which may then be on hand & he to represent me then & to become the Copartner of said Peter H. Peirce Esq. in that establishment if such shall be the pleasure of said Peirce & William Hercules. The said sum of One thousand dollars for the Real Estate and the balance found in my favor on said Company’s Books and certified by my said Copartner as aforesaid are together to Constitute the estimated amount & value of the property & estate which I hereby design to give & bequeath to said William Hercules and which he is to take subject to this further provision, that is to say, if the said estimated value of said Real Estate and the value of said Stock in trade goods & debts explained as aforesaid and estimated & certified as aforesaid, by my said Copartner shall together exceed the amount of the rest & residue of my estate herein after devised, said William shall pay over to my Executor one half of said excess to increase said residue. My Will further is that if said William Hercules shall die without issue, the Estate to him above devised shall be distributed to & among my other children who shall be living at the time of his decease.

        Item. If the rest and residue of my Estate shall exceed the amount of the above bequest of Real Estate, stock in trade, goods & debts due made to said William Hercules the value thereof found & estimated in manner above mentioned my Executor is to pay over to said William Hercules One half part of such excess.

        Item, All the rest and residue of the property & estate of which I may die seized I give & bequeath as follows, that is to say, to my daughter Mary Washburn Cushman One third part of such residue, to my daughter Elizabeth Washburn Cushman one third part of said residue, to my Wife Elizabeth P. Washburn I give & bequeath the interest or income of one third part of said residue to be paid to her by my Executor or my lawful Administrator with this Will annexed, during her Widowhood; and on the death or marriage of my said Wife said undevised third part of said residue is to be distributed to and among my children who shall in either event be alive & to their legal representatives share & share alike. My Will further is that on the death of either of my said daughters without issue & unmarried, the share of the deceased shall be distributed to & among such of my Children as shall survive the deceased & their legal representatives.

Lastly I hereby constitute & appoint my trusty & esteemed friend William Bourne Esquire of said Middleborough to be Executor of this my last Will & Testament.

        In witness whereof I have hereto set my hand & seal this ninth day of June in the Year of our Lord One thousand eight hundred and thirty two.

                                                                                                                                                Hercules Cushman                          (seal)

Signed, Sealed and declared by the above named Hercules Cushman to be his last Will & Testament in the presence of us who in his presence have set our names hereto has witnesses.

        Zechariah Eddy

        Levi Peirce

        Arad Thompson

 

Whereas I Hercules Cushman of Middleborough in the County of Plymouth, Counsellor at Law have duly made and duly executed my last Will & Testament in writing the date whereof is June the ninth day One thousand eight hundred and thirty two,

        Now I the said Hercules Cushman do hereby confirm said Will & the several bequests therein mentioned except in so far as the same may be varied or revoked by this Instrument which I declare to be a Codicil to my said Will and which I direct to be annexed hereto & taken as a part thereof; And I do hereby give & bequeath to my son William Hercules Cushman my pew and the furniture thereof in the Meeting House of the first precinct in Middleborough and also my shed near to said Meeting House on the South Westerly side of the Vestry, to have and to hold to said William Hercules and to his heirs and assigns forever on the following conditions Viz: First that said William Hercules pay to my Executor within one year after my decease the sum of One hundred dollars which sum is to go into the residue of my estate to be distributed as in my said Will directed, Second that said William Hercules reserve seats in said Pew for my Wife Elizabeth P. Cushman and my daughters Mary Washburn Cushman & Elizabeth Washburn Cushman, and permit them to occupy the same so long as they shall respectively remain unmarried.

        In respect to the portraits or pictures of myself and my said Wife, my Will is that they should not be sold nor in any manner be disposed of by my Executor but remain in my family as heirlooms, the property in them to be in my son William Hercules and if he should die without issue the property therein to vest in the next eldest heir of my family and so in succession forever; but as the portraits are now & have for a considerable time been, hung up in the house of my said Wife’s father, my Will is that they remain there during the lifetime of her said father & her mother & if my said Wife should survive them they are still to be at her disposal during her widowhood, but on her death or Marriage, they are to come into the possession of said William Hercules, if alive, or to my next eldest heir if he should not be alive as before expressed.

        In respect to my books of account, title deeds, receipts & other papers & evidences of property my Will & pleasure respecting them is that my Executor shall have the inspection of them & the custody of them for a reasonable time and at all times when it shall be necessary for executing the intentions of my Will & excepting the Notes of hand or bonds which are to be given upon to be cancelled on the payment of the moneys which may be due thereon or on the performance of the condition thereon they are to be finally placed in the hands & under the control of my said son William Hercules.

        In testimony whereof I have hereto set my hand and seal this ________ day of June One thousand eight hundred and thirty two.—

                                                                                                                                                Hercules Cushman                          (seal)

Signed, sealed and published by the said Hercules Cushman as & for a Codicil to be added to & considered part of his last Will & Testament in the presence of us who have subscribed our names in his presence.

        Zechariah Eddy

        Arad Thompson

        Foster Tinkham

 

Presented for probate on 2 Oct. 1832, the Will proved by Levi Peirce and Arad Thompson, two of the witnesses to the Will, and the Codicil proved by Arad Thompson and Foster Tinkham, two of the witnesses to the Codicil. Letters of Administration granted to William Bourne, of Middleborough, Esquire, on 2 Oct. 1832.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 72, p. 415-420, from FHL microfilm #0555261.

 

 

Will of Isaac Cushman of Plympton, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1727) *

Know all Men by these Presents that I Isaac Cushman Senr. of Plimton in the County of Plymouth in the Province of ye Massachusetts Bay in New-England being at this present time in Health & of sound Mind & Memory Thanks be to God for the Same Yet calling to Mind the Mortality of my Body and knowing that it is Appointed for all Men once to dy do Make & ordain this my last Will & Testament That is to Say principally & first of all I Recommend my Soul into the Hands of God that gave it & my Body I recommend the Earth to be buried in decent Christian Burial at the Discretion of my Executor nothing Doubting but at ye General Resurrection I shall recieve the Same by the mighty Power of God And as touching Such worldly Estate wherewith it hath pleased God to bless Me in this Life Having given to my Son Isaac Cushman Decd his full Portion in land to his full Satisfaction And as concerning my Son Ichabod Cushman he has had his Portion already to his full Satisfaction — Yet notwithstanding for the Love & fatherly affection which I bear towards him I Give to him the fifh Part of my Books & twenty Shilling to be paid to him out of my moveable Estate—

Imprims. I Give to my Grandson Nathaniel Cushman my Share of Cedar Swamp lying in Colchester Swamp: And also concerning ye Rest of my moveable Estate be sides what is Above Expressed I Give in mannor following

Imprims. I Give to my Daughter Rebekah Mitchel One quarter Part of my moveable Estate besides what is above Expressed— Item I Give to ye Children of my Daughter Mary Waterman deceased One quarter Part of my Moveable Estate besides what what is above Expressed —

Itm I Give to the Children of my Daughter Sarah Briant deceasd One quarter Part of my Moveable Estate besides what is above Expressed—

Itm I Give to my Daughter Fear Sturtevant One quarter Part of my Moveable Estate besides what is above Expressed and if it should please God to take away by Death Either or Both my Daughters wch are now Surviving before my self then what I have given to them shall belong to their Children. And my Will is that my Son in Law Robert Waterman shall be my Executor to this my last Will & Testament to Recieve all Debts due to the Estate & also to pay all Debts due from the Estate & Funeral Charges before any Division be made of ye abovesaid Particulars amongst my Children & Grand Children — And I do hereby Request my loving friends Capt. Benoni Lucas & Deacon David Bozworth to be overseers of this my last Will & Testament And to be assistant unto my aforesd Executr. in the Performance of ye Same. In Witness whereof I have hereunto Set my hand and Seal this twenty fifh day of October One thousand Seven hundred twenty & Seven

                                                                                                                                                Isaac Cushman                 (Seal)

Signed Sealed & Declared by ye Abovesd Isaac Cushman Senr. to be his Will and

Testament In ye Presence of us

Ignatius Cushing     Benoni Lucas

   David Bozworth

Octobr the 30-1732. The within named Ignatius Cushing & David Bozworth made oath that they Saw the within named Isaac Cushman Sign Seal & heard him Declare the within written to be his last Will & Testament & that they at ye Same time In ye Presence of ye sd Testator Together wth Benoni Lucas Set to their hands as Witnesses And that according to the best of yr Observation he then was of a Sound & Disposing Mind & Memory Before

                                                                                                                                                Isaac Winslow Judge of Probate

Letters of Administration on the Estate of Mr. Isaac Cushman late of Plimton were granted to his son in law Robert Waterman, the Sole Executor, on 4 Dec. 1732.

 

An Inventory of the personal Estate of the Revd. Mr Isaac Cushman late of Plimton Deceased taken by us ye Subscribers Novr 2d 1732

To Books                                                                                                                              £02-0-0

To Bonds                                                                                                                             220-12-10

To Wearing Apparrel                                                                                                          23-2-0

To Bedding & furniture                                                                                                      63-15-6

To Pewter                                                                                                                              09-17-9

To Brass                                                                                                                                04-07-0

To tin                                                                                                                                     00-09-0

To Iron Pots & Kettles                                                                                                        03-1-0

To Knives & Forks                                                                                                              00-13-0

To fire tackling & Iron Hatchet                                                                                       05-13-0

To Old Iron                                                                                                                           03-0-0

To glass Ware                                                                                                                      00-10-6

To Earthen Ware                                                                                                                 00-4-6

To Chairs                                                                                                                              02-11-0

To Chests & Tables                                                                                                            03-12-0

To trays & dishes & barrels & other House Cumber                                                    03-14-0

To Yarn & Wooll & tou[?]                                                                                                04-9-7

To tobacco                                                                                                                           00-7-0

To Cart & Wheels                                                                                                                01-10-0

Saddle & Bridle                                                                                                                    00-10-0

To Provision                                                                                                                         50-2-5

To Cattle & Horse                                                                                                               48-15-0

To Hay                                                                                                                                  34-17-0

Debts due to the Estate                                                                                                     134-16-2

Debts due from ye Estate                                                                                                   42-16-11

                                                                                                David Bozworth

                                                                                                Benjamin Weston

                                                                                                Ignatius Cushing

Decembr the 19: 1732 Robert Waterman Adminr on ye Estate of Mr Isaac Cushman late of Plimton in the County of Plymth Deceasd Made Oath that the within written is a true & perfect Inventory of the Estate of ye sd Isaac Cushman as far as is come to his Knowledge & if more hereafter appears he will also give it in                                                                                                   Before Isaac Winslow Judge of Probate

The day abovesd the within named David Bozworth Benjamin Weston & Ignatius Cushing Made Oath that ye Apprisement by them here made of ye Estate of Mr Isaac Cushman late of Plimton in ye County of Plymouth Deceased is a just & equal apprisement according to ye best of their Judgement                                                                                                                                          Before Isaac Winslow Judge of Probate

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 6, pp. 248-249, 267, from FHL microfilm #0550512.

 

 

Will of Isaac Cushman of Middleborough, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1832) *

Be it remembered that I Isaac Cushman of Middleborough in the County of Plymouth Gentleman being weak in body but of sound mind and memory do on this twenty fourth day of May AD One thousand eight hundred and thirty two make and publish this my last Will and testament in manner following that is to say

I give and devise to my son Abraham M. Cushman all my homestead farm Also one piece of fresh meadow situated in Middleborough which was formerly owned by Asa Barrows, and is adjoining to the Land of William Nelson Esq. Also one fifth part of my household Goods, To have and to hold to him his heirs and assigns forever he paying all my funeral Expenses, and the sum of Eight hundred and two dollars, to my other children as I hereafter name in six month after my decease –

I give and devise to my sons namely, Elias Cushman, Venus Cushman, George Cushman, and Eliphalet Cushman in equal shares the sum of Eight hundred dollars, to be paid to them by my Executor in six months after my decease. Also all the rest & residue of my Estate both Real & personal to them to have & to hold and to their heirs and assigns forever

I give to my daughter Hannah Miller the wife of Jacob Miller one dollar to be paid to her in six months after my decease by my Executor

I give to my Grandson Samuel Hall the son of Samuel Hall one dollar to be paid to him by my Executor in six months after my decease –

And lastly I do constitute & appoint my said son Abraham M. Cushman sole executor of this my last will and testament.

In testimony whereof I do hereunto set my hand and seal the day & year above written.

                                                                                                                                                Isaac Cushman                                 (seal)

Signed, sealed, published, pronounced and declared by the said Isaac Cushman as and for his last will and testament in the presence of us who at his request and in his presence hereunto set our names as witnesses to the same

                                                                                                                                                Seth Miller

                                                                                                                                                Polly Finney

                                                                                                                                                Charles L. Thomas

 

Presented for probate on 6 Nov. 1832, and proved by Seth Miller and Polly Finney, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration granted to Abraham M. Cushman, of Middleborough.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 72, p. 469-470, from FHL microfilm #0555261.

 

 

Will of James Cushman of Kingston, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1832) *

        In the name of God Amen, I James Cushman of Kingston in the Plymouth considering the uncertainty of this mortal life, do make this my last will and Testament, in manner and form following.—

        In the first place I give and bequeath unto my Son Samuel E. Cushman, my daughter Mary Cushman and my daughter Sarah Bartlett all my home lot of land on which I now dwell Bounded Northerly by the brook, and mill pond also to include a small piece of land on the Northerly side of the Mill pond between the land and road leading to the Gristmill, bounded as the fence now stands and bounded easterly and southerly by John Drew’s land, until it comes to the highway, thence bounded by the high way, land of George Brewster and Nahum Bailey until it comes to the high way again, then by the high way, and land I sold my said son Samuel E. Cushman to the brook began at, with all the buildings standing thereon, to them and their heirs, in equal shares, or their assigns.

2nd. I give and bequeath Unto my son Job Cushman one third of the land, I purchased of David Bradford lying in Kingston. –

3rd. I give and bequeath unto my grandson James Harvey Cushman, two thirds of the land I purchased of David Bradford aforesaid.

4th. I give and bequeath unto my sons Zenas Cushman, Spencer Cushman and Martin Cushman, in equal shares a piece of land lying in Kingston which I purchased of John Brewster, also my wood lot and salt meadow which was given to me by my Honord Father Thomas Cushman, deceased,

5th. I give unto my son Nathaniel Cushman, a Note, and all obligations I hold against him, and Five dollars.

6th. I give unto my daughter Mary the Amount of Fifty dollars out of my household furniture, and the remainder to be equally divided between Mary Cushman and Sarah Bartlett my daughters.

7th. If any more personal Estate should be left or found belonging to my Estate after paying my just debts and funeral charges, my will is that it be equally divided between my sons and daughters aforesaid.

8th. I constitute and appoint my son Samuel E. Cushman sole executor of this my last Will and testament.

In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this twentieth day of October in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and thirty two, and declare by the said James Cushman to be his last will and Testament

in the presence of us who at his request

and in his presence have subscribed

our names as witnesses.                                                                                                      James Cushman                                (seal)

        Seth Washburn,

        Francis Drew,

        John Gray

 

Probated on 20 May 1833, and proved by Seth Washburn, Francis Drew, and John Gray, the witnesses. Letters of administration granted to Samuel E. Cushman, of Kingston, yeoman.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 74, p. 258-260, from FHL microfilm #0555262.

 

 

Will of James Cushman of Stafford, Tolland County, Connecticut (1845) *

                In the name of God Amen. I James Cushman of Stafford in the County of Tolland & State of Connecticut being weak in body yet of sound disposing mind & memory do hereby ordain & make this my last will & Testament, in manner & form following that is to say.

Imprimis. I will that all my just debts & funeral charges be first paid out of my estate by my Executor hereinafter named. Item, I give & bequeath to my beloved wife Phebe the use & improvement of my home farm & buildings during her natural life also the use & improvement of one yoke of Oxen, two Cows & Ten sheep & all my household furniture & farming tools & utensils during her natural life & then to go to my son Lathrop C. Cushman to be his own forever subject to the following legacies viz. Item I give & bequeath to my daughter Phebe Washburn and my daughter Susan N. Smith the sum of Fifteen dollars each to be paid to them by my Executor within one year after my decease. Item. I give to each of my sons viz Eli P. Cushman, Joseph G. Cushman and James Cushman the sum of Five dollars each to be paid to them by my Executor within one year after my decease. Item all the residue & remainder of my estate real & personal I will & bequeath to my son Lathrop C. Cushman and do hereby ordain constitute & appoint him sole Executor of this my last will and testament hereby revoking all former wills testaments by me at any time heretofore made.

In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this 10th day of April AD 1845

Signed Sealed published & declared as my last Will and Testament in presence of

Zina Winter                                                                                                                           James Cushman                                (seal)

Samuel Cushman

Lunah Cushman

 

Presented for probate on 29 Apr. 1845 by Lathrop C. Cushman, the Executor, and proved by Samuel Cushman and Lunah Cushman, two of the witnesses. Isham Scripture and Harvey R. James, of Stafford, were appointed to appraise the estate of James Cushman, late of Stafford, by Zina Winter, Judge.

The Inventory of the Estate of James Cushman, late of Stafford, was presented on 2 May 1845, and totaled $1264.50, including his home farm and buildings valued at $850, and the Turnpike Lot valued at $80.

 

The Executor of the last will & testament of James Cushman, late of Stafford, was allowed $117 for the support of the widow & family of the deceased during the settlement of the estate.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Town of Stafford Register of Probate Records Vol. 16, pp. 359-362, 482, from FHL microfilm #0005749.

 

 

Will of Joanna Cushman of Middleborough, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1814) *

  In the Name of God amen. I Joanna Cushman of the Town of Middleborough in the County of Plymouth & Commonwealth of Massachusetts being weak of Body yet of a sound & disposing Mind & Memory, blessed be God for the same do make & ordain this my last Will & Testament in Manner & form following, that is to say —

                I give & bequeath to my Son Isaac Cushman the third, two third parts of the Share undivided, which fell to my Daughter Deborah the wife of Daniel Sturtevant in the Settlement of the Estate of my Husband Eliphalet Cushman decd. which Share I bought by Deed from the said Daniel Sturtevant & Wife, which two thirds given above is to be understood only in the Land exclusive of the Dwelling house, to him my said Son Isaac his Heirs & assigns forever – Also I give & bequeath to him my said Son Isaac all my indoor moveables which are not herein otherways disposed of, together with all my farming Tools & outdoor moveables & all my live Stock & all my Dues & Demands of every kind – & my will is & I hereby order that my said Son Isaac shall pay all my just Debts funeral Charges and for the Settlement of the Estate —

                I give & bequeath to my Son Joseph H. Cushman one third part of the Land contained in the said Share, two thirds of which is given to my said Son Isaac together with the whole of said Share in the Dwelling house to him my said Son Joseph H Cushman his Heirs & assigns forever – Also I give & bequeath to my said Son Joseph one Bed with a striped Tick with a Bedstead & Cord, one underbed two pair tow, & linen Sheets, one Cotton Sheet, three pair of Pillow Cases, one pair of Cotton & wool Blankets, one white all wool Blanket, one green Bedquilt lined with blue, one red blue & black Coverlet, one red & white Coverlet, one patchwork Bedquilt, lined with blue, one large plain Chest & one small Chest, one small Trunk covered with oil Cloth one Set of TeaSpoons & my watch –

                I give & bequeath to my Daughter Deborah the Wife of Daniel Sturtevant one Calico patch work Bedquilt lined with white & all my wearing apparel –

                I give & bequeath to my Granddaughter Joanna the Daughter of Daniel Sturtevant one Gold Ring –

                And my will is & I hereby constitute & appoint my said Son Isaac Cushman 3d. sole Executor to his my last will & Testament – In Testimony whereof I the said Joanna Cushman have hereunto set my hand & Seal this seventeenth day of June Anno Domini Eighteen hundred & fourteen —

Signed sealed pronounced & declared by the said Joanna

Cushman as her last will & Testament in presence of us                                             Joanna Cushman                             (seal)

                Jacob Bennet

                Josiah Sparrow

                Calvin Reding

 

Presented for probate on 24 Nov. 1814 by Isaac Cushman 3d., the Executor therein named, and proved by Jacob Bennet Esqr. and Josiah Sparrow, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Isaac Cushman 3d., the before named Executor.

No inventory of her estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 45, p. 554-555, from FHL microfilm #0550903.

 

 

Will of Joanna Cushman of Plympton, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1816) *

        I Joanna Cushman of Plympton

1st.   I give my Soul to God & my Body to the Grave to be decently buried. –

2d.   I give all my real & personal Estate to Zerviah Chandler the Wife of Zebedee Chandler and Silvia Cushman the Wife of Jacob Cushman to be equally divided between them after my just Debts and funeral Charges are paid

        I appoint Zebedee Chandler Administrator on my Will

Signed sealed & delivered in presence of us this fifteenth day of October in the year of our Lord 1816

                Bennet Perkins                                                                                                                     her

                Isaiah Ripley 2d.                                                                                                  Joanna   X   Cushman                        (seal)

                Zerviah Fuller                                                                                                                  mark

 

The Will of Joanna Cushman, late of Plympton, singlewoman, was presented for probate on 12 Dec. 1816 by Zebedee Chandler, the Executor therein named, and proved by Bennet Perkins, Isaiah Ripley 2d., and Zerviah Fuller, the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Zebedee Chandler, the before named Executor.

 

Isaiah Ripley 2d. and Jonathan Parker Gentleman, and Timothy Ripley Yeoman, all of Plympton, were appointed to appraise the estate of Joanna Cushman, late of Plympton, Singlewoman, on 12 Dec. 1816. The Inventory, not dated, totaled $106.66, included one half of a kitchen, bedroom and buttery valued at $48. Zebedee Chandler, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 6 Jan. 1817.

 

Plympton November 29th. 1817 This day receved of Zebedee Chandler of Plympton in the County of Plymouth & State of Massachusetts twenty four Dollars, it being in full of all Demands of every name or nature both real & personal Estate of Joanna Cushman late of Plympton deceased which we give up all our Right, Title & Interest in said Estate that has ever appeared or shall ever appear for the above named Sum in presence of us Witnesses – and our Heirs and Assigns forever hereafter

Isaac Wright                                                                                                                         Jacob Cushman

Isaac Wright Junr.                                                                                                                Silva Cushman

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 48, pp. 274-275, 329-330, from FHL microfilm #0550905, and Vol. 49, p. 161.

 

 

Will of Joshua Cushman of Marshfield, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1765) *

In the Name of God amen, I Joshua Cushman of Marshfield in the county of Plimouth in New: England yeoman being sick & weak of body, but of sound mind & memory (blessed be God for it): & calling to mind the mortality of my body do hereby make & ordain this my last will & testament. & first of all, I do recommend & commit by Soul into the hands of God that gave it; & my body to the earth to be decently interred by my executor hereafter named, in hopes of a resurrection to life eternal thro’ the merits of the great redeemer; & as to my worldly goods & estate with which God has blessd. me in this life, I do hereby give & dispose of the same in the following manner & form. ~

Imprs. I give & bequeath to my beloved wife Deborah Cushman the use & improvement of all my estate both real & personal after my funeral charges, Doctor & all my just debts are paid for the term that she shall remain my widdow to enable her to maintain & bring up my children.

Item. I give to my son Apollus the sum of twenty pounds lawfull money, my gun & ammunition, the sd. £20. to be paid within one Year after my decease.

Item. I give to my two sons Apollus & Cephas all my wearing apparell to be equally divided between them. ~~

Item. My mind & will is that after my wife,s decease or marriage that then my whole estate both real & personal shall be equally divided amongst all my children viz, Joseph Cushman, Joshua Cushman, Mary Chandler, Sara Cushman, Paul Cushman, Apollus Cushman, Cephas Cushman, Soul Cushman, Myall Cushman, Consider Cushman, Robert Cushman & Deborah Cushman. ~~

Item. I do constitute & appoint my son Joshua Cushman, to be the sole executor of this my last will & testament, & I do revoke all other wills hereby ratifying & confirming this & no other to be my last will & testamt.

In witness whereof I,ve hereunto set my hand & seal this 8th. day of March in the year of our Lord 1765.

                                                                                                                                                Joshua Cushman                             (seal)

Signed, sealed & declared by the sd. Joshua Cushman to be his last Will & testament in Presence of us.~

James Sprague Junr., Lidia Winslow, Nehemiah Thomas, —

 

Presented for probate on 1 Apr. 1765 by Joshua Cushman, the Executor therein named, and proved by Nehemh. Thomas and James Sprague Junr, two of the witnesses.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Joshua Cushman, late of Marshfield, was appraised by John Wadsworth and Jonathan Peterson, of Duxborough, and James Sprague junr., of Marshfield, on 12 Apr. 1765, not totaled, but it included a farm at Rochester valued at £154.13, and a small salt meadow at Rochester. Joshua Cushman, the administrator on the estate, gave his oath to the inventory on 22 May 1765.

 

Barzillai Hammond, Ezekiel Clark, and Nathaniel Hammond presented the division of the estate of Joshua Cushman in Rochester, dated 10 July 1765, setting off a 1/3rd part to the widow as her right of dower. Recorded on 12 July 1765.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 19, pp. 194-195, 230-231, 296, from FHL microfilm #0550711.

 

 

Will of Josiah Cushman of Plympton, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1742) *

In the Name of God Amen Josiah Cushman of the Town of Plimton in County of Plimouth in new England Yeoman Being Through the Goodness of God of perfect and Desposing Memory Butt Calling to mind the mortallaty of my Body and Knowing it is appointed for all men once To Die Do make and Ordain this my Last Will and Testement — Imprimas — I Will and Bequeath my Soul unto God who Gave it me: and my Body To the Dust To be Decentely Buried at the Descretion of my Executrex hereafter Named nothing Doubting But at ye Generail Rezerection I Shall Receive the Same again by the mighty power of God and as Touching Such worldly Estate wherewith it hath pleased God To Bless me in this Life I Dispose of in the following mannor

Item. I Will and Bequeath unto my well Beloved Wife Susanah Cushman the Sole Improvement of one third part of my Whole Estate Both Reail and personal During her naturiel Life my Just Debts & funarell Charges Being first paid out ~~

Item. I Will and Bequeath unto my Loving Son Josiah Cushman the Sum of Ten pounds in Bills of Creditt old Tenour or in Movables To the value thereof To be paid him By my Exectx within Twelve months after my Decease which Said Sum of Ten pounds with the Lands I have Given him by Deed Baring Date apriel the Third 1740. I Esteam his full proportion of my Estate. —

I Will and Bequeath unto my Loving Son Elkanah Cushman the Sum of Ten pounds In Bills of Creditt old Tenour or in movable Estate to the value thereof To Be paid him By my Executox Within Twelve monthes after my Decease which Said Sum of Ten pounds with the Housing and Lands I have already Given him By Deed Bareing Date Apriel ye Third 1740 I Esteme his full proportion of my Estate —

Itm I Will and Bequeath unto my Loving Son william Cushman the Sum of Ten pounds in Bills of Creditt Old Tenour or in movables To the value thereof To be paid him By my Executox Within Twelve months after my Deceas Which said Sum of Ten pounds With the Lands I have alredy Given him By Deed Bareing Date Apriel the Third 1740 I Esteame his full proportion of my Estate — —

I Will and Bequeath unto my Loving Son Isaiah Cushman the Sum of Ten pounds in Bills of Creditt Old Tenour or in movables to the Value thereof To be paid him By my Executrix Within twelve monthes after my Decease which Said Sume of Ten pounds with what I have already Given him in Housing and Lands By Deed Baring Date Apriel the Third 1740 I Esteam his full proportion of my Estate —

Item — I Will and Bequeath unto my Loving Daughter Martha ye Wife of Robert Waterman the Sum of Sixty five pounds old Tenour or in movables To the Value thereof To be paid her By my Executrex within Twelve months after my Decease —

I Will and Bequeath unto my Loving Daughter Susannah Cushman The Sum of one Hundred and fifteen pounds in Good Bills of Creditt Old Tenour or the Value thereof in movables To be paid her by my Executrix with in Twelve monthes after my Deceas —

Item — I Will and Bequeath unto my Loving Daughter Elizaboth Cushmon the Sum of one Hundred and fifteen pounds in Good Bills of Credditt Old Tenour or in movables to the Value thereof To be paid her By my Executrix within Twelve monthes after my Decease: I having already Given my Loving Daughter Anne the wife of Robart Avery the value of one Hundred and fifteen pounds and Therefore Shall Give her no more untill my Other Daughters have Received Equell To Her as I Have Before Bequeathed unto them —

Item— I Will and Bequeath unto my Four Loving Daughters viz— Martha the wife of Robert Waterman Susanah Anne the wife of Robert Avery and Elisabath all the Resedue of my Estate Both Real and personel whatsoever and wheresoever it may be Found To be equaly Divided among them which have not Disposed of By Deed nor in this present will and Further my Will is if any of my Sons Shall Decease Before they Arive unto ye age of Twenty one years that in Such Case my Surviveing Son or sons Shall Injoy ye Estate of the Deceased and my Daughters To Have none of ye Issues nor property Thereof it is also my Will That if any of my Daughters Shall Decease Before they Arive unto the above said age of Twenty one years that then my Surviveing Daughters Shall Injoy ye Estate of my Deceased Daughter and my Sons to have none of ye Issue or property thereof —

Lastly I Nominate and appointe my Loving Wife Susannah Cushman To be ye Sole Executrex of this my Last will and Testement hereby Revoking all Other and former Wills Either Written or verbell by me Heretofore made or done hereby Rettifing and Confirming this my Last Will To Remain firm and Inviolable in Testimoney whereof I the Said Josiah Cushmain have hereunto Set my hand and Seal ye Day of June 1 one thousand Seven Hundred and forty Two 1742

Signed Sealed pronounounced and Decelard

By the Said Josiah Cushman to be his Last will and Testement

                                                in presents of us

Lazarus Samson                                                                                                                  Josiah Cushman                           (seal)

Nathll Shurtleff

Joseph Lucas

 

Presented by for probate on 18 May 1750 by the Executrix, and proved by Lazarus Samson & Nathll. Shurtleff.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 12, p. 276-278, from FHL microfilm #0551539.

 

 

Will of Josiah Cushman of Plympton, Plymouth County, Massachusetts Bay (1784) *

   In the name of God Amen– the twenty fourth day of August one thousand seven hundred and Eighty four–I Josiah Cushman of Plymton in the County of Plymouth in New England, yeoman, being weak of body but of perfect mind and memory thanks be to God therefor, and Calling to mind the mortality of my body & knowing that it is appointed for all men once to die do make & ordain this my Last will and testament vizt– principally and first of all, Give and Recommend my Soul into the hands of God that Gave it hoping that through the merits of Christs death & Sufferings to Recieve the forgiveness of all my Sins, and my body unto the Earth to be decently buried at the discretion of my Executor hereafter named, and as touching such worldly Estate as it hath pleased God to bless me with in this Life, I Give and dispose of in the following manner and form.~

Item – I Give and bequeath unto my well beloved wife Deborah the improvement of one third part of all my Real Estate so Long as she shall Remain my widow if she should marry, the said Real Estate to be divided to my Eight Sons if Living and also I Give unto my beloved wife one third part of all my Personal Estate to her own disposal

Item–I Give and bequeath unto my beloved Son Josiah One Eighth part of all my Real Estate he paying nineteen pounds Seventeen Shillings

Item–I Give and bequeath unto my Loving Son William one Eighth part of all my Real Estate, together & one yoke of Oxen ~

Item–I Give and bequeath unto my Loving Son Ignatius one Eighth part of all my Real Estate and thirty Dollars in money to be paid out of my Personal Estate when he shall arrive at twenty-one years of age ~

Item–I Give and bequeath unto my Loving Son Nathaniel one Eighth part of all my Real Estate & one yoke of three years old Stears –

Item–I Give and bequeath unto my Loving Son Andrew, one Eighth part of all my Real Estate & ten Dollars in money to be paid out of my moveable Estate when he shall arrive at twenty one years of Age –

Item–I Give and bequeath unto my Loving Son Robert one Eighth part of all my Real Estate & ten Dollars, to be paid out of my Personal Estate when he shall arrive at twenty one years of Age

Item–I Give and bequeath unto my Loving Son Alden one Eighth part of all my Reall Estate, and also one third part of my Personal Estate after my just debts be paid and funeral Charges –

Item–I Give and bequeath unto my Loving Son Jeremiah one Eighth part of all my Real Estate & also one third part of my Personal Estate after my just debts are paid and funeral Charges

Item–I Give and bequeath unto my Loving daughter Sarah ten Shillings besides what she has already had to be paid out of my Personal Estate.

Item–I Give and bequeath unto my Loving daughter Deborah ten Shillings, besides what she has already had, to be paid out of my Personal Estate –

Item–I Give and bequeath unto my Loving daughter Susanna one feather Bed and Lastly – I Constitute and appoint my Loving wife Deborah Cushman to be the Sole Executor on this my Last will and testament, & I do hereby utterly disallow & Revoke all wills by me before made Ratifying & Confirming this and no other to be my Last will and testament–In witness whereof I have hereunto Set my hand & Seal the day and year above written.~

Signed, Sealed, Published & delivered by the sd                                                           Josiah Cushman                               (seal)

Josiah Cushman as his Last will & testament

in presence of us the Subscribers –

                Isaiah Cushman

                John Chamberlin

                William Chamberlin

 

Presented for probate on 4 Oct. 1784 by Deborah Cushman, the Executrix therein named, and proved by Isaiah Cushman and John Chamberlin, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Deborah Cushman, the before named Executrix.

 

James Churchill Gentm, Joel Ellis yeoman, and John Chamberlin Housewright, all of Plymton, were appointed to appraise the estate of Josiah Cushman, late of Plymton, yeoman, on 4 Oct. 1784. The Inventory of the Estate of Josiah Cushman, late of Plymton, dated 7 Feb. 1785, totaled £685.10.6, including his real estate valued at £416. Deborah Cushman, the Executrix, gave her oath to the inventory on 7 Feb. 1785.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 29, p. 207-209, from FHL microfilm #0550715.

 

 

Will of Lydia Cushman of Plymouth, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1744) *

In the name of God amen, I Lydia Cushman of Plimouth aged Sixty three years & being weak of body but of perfect understanding & memory, Prases be to god for the same; knowing that it is appointed for all men once to die, I do make this my last will and Testament that is to say first & principally I give & recomend my Soul to god that gave it me and my body to the Earth to be decently buried at Decent Christian burial by my Executor nothing doubting but at the general Resurection I Shall receive the same again by the Mighty power of God and as touching the worldly Estate wherewith it hath pleased God to bless me with I give Demise and dispose of the same in manner & forme following—

I Give and bequeath to my Eldest daughter Maria Barker my Book Called Concorgiance and my smallest looking Glass

Item. I Give and bequeath to my Youngest daughter Lydia Cushman and to her heirs and assigns forever all the rest & Remainder of my Estate both real and personal, and also my Will is that all my Debts & funeral charges be paid, by my Brother Edward Arnold and Lydia Cushman my Youngest Daughter whom I nominate & appoint The Sole Executrix of this my last will & Testament and I do hereby utterly revoke & all other and former Wills here by ratyfieing & Confirming this and no Other to be my last will & Testament In Witness whereof I have hereunto Set my hand this day of September 27 in the year 1744.

Signed Sealed and Declared

by the said Lydia Cushman

to be her last will & Testament

In the presence of us                                                                                                           Lydia Cushman                (seal)

Experience Lothrop

Elizabeth Howland

Benjamin Lothrop

 

Proved on 11 May 1749 by Benja. Lothrop & Elizabeth Howland. Administration was granted to Lydia Atwood, wife of Solomon Atwood, the Sole Executrix in the will named, on 11 May 1749. No inventory of her estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 11, p. 216-217, from FHL microfilm #0551537.

 

 

Will of Marcy Cushman of Plympton, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1728) *

Know all Men by these Presents that Marcy Cushman of Plimpton in the County of Plymouth in New England Relict and Widdow of Isaac Cushman Late of Plimpton Deceased Being at this time in health, and of sound and disposeing memory and understanding Blessed be God for it, Do make and ordain this to be my Last will and Testment to remain firm and inviolable for ever; Imprimis my Will is that all my Just debts and funeral Charges be first paid out of my Estate by my Executor hereafter named; Item, I give and bequeath unto my Son Jonathan Freeman and unto my Daughter Marcy Waterman each of them Ten Shillings, Item I give and bequeath unto my Son Bradford Freeman the Sum of Twenty Pounds to be paid unto him by my Executor when he shall arrive at the age of twenty one years; Item I give unto my Son Ichabod Freeman the sum of Forty two Pounds to be paid unto him by my Executr. when he shall arrive at the age of Twenty one years, Item I give unto the Heirs of my Daughter Marcy which is Born of her Body the Sum of Eighty Six Pounds which said of Eighty Six Pounds she hath already received as Lent unto her in Money and houshold stuff; But if my said Daughter Marcy decease without heirs born of her Body, then I give Ten pounds of the abovesd. Sum of Eighty Six pounds to my Son Jonathan Freeman above named, and the remainder of the sd. Sum of Eighty Six pounds I give to my two Sons Bradford and Ichabod Freeman above named to be equally divided between them; Item I give and bequeath to my Three Daughters (viz) Fear Cushman Priscilla Cushman and Abigail Cushman all the rest of my Estate to be equally divided amongst them and paid unto each of them as they shall arrive at age by my Executr. hereafter named; And my Will is that my Brother Samuel Bradford of Plimpton Afforesd. be Executor to this my last Will and Testament. Thus hopeing that this my last Will and Testament will be kept and performed according to the true intent and meaning thereof; I commit my Body to the Dust, and my Soul to God that gave it; In witness whereof I the Afforesd. Marcy Cushman have hereunto set my hand and Seal this Sixteenth Day of December Annoq Dom: 1728.

Signed Sealed and declared

by the Above named Marcy                                                                                              Marcy Cushman                               (seal)

Cushman to be her last

Will and Testamt. in the

presence of us.

William Churchel

Samuel Cushman

John Bell

 

Ichabod Freeman, of Plympton, yeoman, was granted administration with will annexed of the estate of Mercy Cushman, late of Plympton, who died testate and appointed Mr. Saml. Bradford, of Plympton, as Executor of her estate, who is also since deceased, not having fully administered upon the estate, on 2 June 1740.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of the widow Mercy Cushman, who deceased in 1738, was appraised by Josiah Perkins, George Samson, and Benja. Weston, but not dated or totaled. Ichabod Freeman, the administrator, gave his oath to the inventory on 17 Apr. 1741.

 

Joseph Lucas, Josiah Cushman, Willm. Churchill, Benja. Weston, and Ebenezer Sole, all of Plymton, were appointed to divide the Dower set off to Mercy Cushman widdow of Isaac Cushman late of Plymton deceas’d out of his Estate among the Heirs of Isaac Cushman pursuant to province Law on 19 Mar. 1740.

The division was dated 17 Apr. 1741. The first assignee was Zebede Chandler of Plymton, Housewright, who was the assignee of Fear Stertevant wife to Nehemiah Stertevant Junr., of Plymton, husbandman & Phebe the wife of Barnabas Hatch of Tolon in the Collony of Conneticut, they being two of ye Daughters of sd Isaac and Mercy Cushman. The second assignee was Priscilla the wife of Israel Holmes of Plymton, Cordwainer, another of the Daughters of the deceased. The third assignee was Abigail Cushman, another Daughter of the deceased. Nathaniel Cushman son of said Deceas’d and Sarah wife to John Gibbs a Daughter of sd. Deceas’d haveing quitted their Right Title and Interest in the Premises have no part assign’d them therein. Approved by Jno. Cushing, Judge of Probt., on 17 Apr. 1741.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Docket #5875, the will not recorded in the probate books, the administration from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 8, p. 215, the inventory from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 8, p. 301, and the division from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 8, p. 301-304.

 

 

Will of Nathaniel Cushman of Stafford, Tolland County, Connecticut (1817) *

                In the name of God Amen I Nathaniel Cushman being indisposed but of perfect mind & memory praise be given to God for the same but calling to mind the mortality of my body and knowing it is appointed for all men once to die do therefore make & ordain this to be my last will & testament hereby making null & void all other former wills & testaments by me made & signed and particularly and first of all my soul I recommend into the hands of God that gave it me my body I recommend to the earth to be decently buried nothing doubting but at the general resurrection I shall receive the same by the mighty power of God – As to such worldly estate as it pleased God to bless me with I give demise & dispose of the same in the following manner, viz –

        Item my will is that my debts funeral charges be first paid

        Item I give to Hannah my beloved wife the use of all my real estate during her natural life except the stone Ledge so called, and my son Lemuel Cushman is to improve the land as my wife & he can agree & likewise I give her one horse & side saddle a yoke of four year old steers two cows & ten sheep all the house hold furniture one half of the house and one half of the barn all to be at her own disposal during her natural life & then to return back to my son Lemuel Cushman except the house hold furniture which is to be given to my daughter Sarah Cushman when her mother is done with it My wife is to dispose of the stock as she please which I give her ~

        Item I give to my son Lemuel Cushman all the rest of my real & personal estate which is not otherwise disposed of for his proper use and behoof forever by my son Lemuel improving his mothers land as is above written –

        Item, I give the rest of my children one dollar each to be paid whenever called for in one year after my decease except Charlotte & Clarissa to them I give one Cow apiece to be paid them after my decease in one year –

        Item I give to my daughter Sarah Cushman three hundred dollars – Two hundred to be paid her in money one hundred dollars a year after my decease and one hundred dollars whenever she shall want after my decease in stock or household furniture

And furthermore I do appoint Hannah my beloved wife & Lemuel Cushman to be my Sole Executors of this my last will and testament In witness whereof I truly hereunto affixed my hand and seal the 16th day of Aug AD 1817 – Signed Sealed published pronounced & declared by the said Nathaniel Cushman as his last will & testament in presence of us Witnesses

Susanna Cady                                                                                                                      Nathl. Cushman                                (seal)

Patty Bemis

Daniel Peck

 

Presented for probate on 13 Sept. 1817 by Hannah Cushman and Lemuel Cushman, both of Stafford, named Executors, and approved the same day. The Inventory of the estate of Nathaniel Cushman, late of Stafford, appraised by Ebenezer Gay and Daniel Peck, was presented the same day, and totaled $2751.14.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Town of Stafford Register of Probate Records Vol. 9, p. 440-444, from FHL microfilm #0005746.

 

 

Will of Noah Cushman of Middleborough, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1818) *

In the Name of God amen I Noah Cushman of Middleborough in the County of Plymouth in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts–Yeoman being advanced in years & infirm in Body but of a sound Mind & Memory blessed be God for the same, wherefore calling to mind the Mortality of my Body knowing that it is appointed to all men once to die, I do hereby make & ordain this to be my last Will & Testament to remain firm & inviolable forever principally and first of all, I give my Soul to God that gave it, & my Body I give & recommend to the Dust to be buried in a decent manner at the Discretion of my friends & Executor hereafter named in hope that the same Body will be raised at the general Resurrection by the mighty power of God & as to such worldly Estate as it hath pleased God to bless me with, I do hereby dispose of the same as followeth (viz) –

                Imprimis I give & bequeath to my true & well beloved Wife Zeruah Cushman & to her Heirs & assigns forever all of the property or Effects of Property that she owned at the time of her & my Marriage also the best Cow that I shall own at my decease, which Cow I give to her instead of a Cow she brought with her when I married her, also my small chest with a Lock and Key & two Cotton Sheets & two Cotton Pillow Cases that she hath lately made, also one Cambrick Sheet we purchased sometime ago & also one third part of the indoor moveable Estate that we have made or purchased since our Marriage, I also give to my said Wife during her natural Life the use and Improvement of one third part of my home Farm & Buildings thereon standing & one third part of my part of a Pew in the Meeting house ~

                Item I also order my Executor hereafter named to pay to my said Wife thirty Dollars & to keep on my Farm my Heifer that is now almost one Year old untill it shall become a Cow & then to deliver said Cow to my said Wife and I do hereby order that my said Wife shall at her discretion expend said thirty Dollars for the Education of her & my Daughter Zeruah Thomas Cushman and I also order that when my said Wife shall receive said Cow she shall improve the same at her Discretion for the Benefit of our said Daughter & to account for the same, when she shall be legally called upon therefor.—

                Item I give & bequeath to my Son Jacob Cushman & to his Heirs & Assigns forever five hundred Dollars to be paid to him in one Year after my decease by my Son Hercules Cushman.—

                Item I give and bequeath to my Son Andrew Cushman & to his Heirs & Assigns forever eight hundred Dollars to be paid to him in one Year after my decease by my Son Hercules Cushman.—

                Item I give and bequeath to my two Sons namely Zenas Cushman second & Elias Cushman, in equal halves & to their & each of their Heirs & Assigns forever about sixty Acres of Land be it more or less & contains all of my Farm called the plain Farm together with the Barn thereon standing also the southerly half of my Lot of fresh Meadow, called Bartlitts Meadow & also all of my hewed Timber Board Clapboard & Shingles at the Saw mill, or otherwhere, that I have prepared to build a House on said plain Farm–

                Item I give & bequeath to my Son Daniel Cushman & to his Heirs forever five hundred Dollars, but I do not give it to him to have a right to demand & come into possession of the same, but I order for my Son Hercules Cushman at his discretion to pay the same to him the said Daniel & for said Hercules to keep a fair account of what he payeth & to allow Interest after one year from any decease, & if the whole shall not be paid to said Daniel while he is living for the surplus of what is not then paid at said Daniel’s Decease to be paid to his Heirs at Law–

                Item I give & bequeath to my Son Joseph Cushman & to his Heirs & Assigns forever my ten Acre Lot of Land lying notherly of Jonathan Harlow’s Land & between said Harlow’s Land & Capt. Ebenezer Wood’s Land, also five hundred Dollars to be paid to him by my Son Hercules Cushman, when he the said Joseph shall arrive to twenty one Year of Age, & then if not paid to be on Interest untill paid I also give to him the said Joseph my Bed & Furniture commonly used for his Lodging & also my two Steers that are now almost one Year old & I do order my Son Hercules Cushman to keep said Steers on my home Farm untill said Joseph shall arrive to twenty one Years of Age & then deliver them to him –

                Item I give & bequeath to my Daughter Abigail Coombs & to her Heirs & Assigns forever two hundred Dollars to be paid to her in one Year after my Decease by my Son Hercules Cushman, I also give unto her my Great round back Chair –

                Item I give and bequeath to my Daughter Susanna Cushman & to her Heirs two hundred Dollars & my Bed & Furniture that was her Mother’s bed I do not give them to her for her to demand & come into possession of them as she shall like, but I order for my Son Hercules to keep the controls of them in his own hands & to pay & deliver them to her at his Discretion & to keep a fair Account & to allow her Interest for her money after one Year & if he shall not pay & deliver the whole to her during her Lifetime then at her decease to pay & deliver any Surplus to her Heirs in Law.—

                Item I give & bequeath to my Daughter Zilpah Cushman & to her Heirs & Assigns forever two hundred Dollars to be paid to her in two Years after my decease by by my Son Hercules Cushman & also one Cow & one Bed with light Furniture

                Item I give & bequeath to my Daughter Priscilla Cushman & to her Heirs & Assigns forever two hundred Dollars to be paid to her when she shall arrive to eighteen Years of Age by my son Hercules Cushman, I also give unto her one Cow to come into possession of at my decease, I also give unto her one Bed with light Furniture—

                Item I give and bequeath to my Daughter Salome Cushman & to her Heirs & Assigns forever two hundred Dollars to be paid to her when she shall arrive to eighteen years of Age by my Son Hercules Cushman. I also give unto her one Cow & also one Bed with light Furniture –

                Item I give and bequeath to my Daughter Zeruah Thomas Cushman & to her Heirs & Assigns forever two hundred Dollars, to be paid to her when she shall arrive to the Age of eighteen years, I also give unto her the Benefit of the thirty Dollars put into the hands of her Mother for her Education & the Cow with the Income thereof that I have by this Will ordered to be put into the hands of my said Wife to manage for her, the said Money to be paid to her as above by my Son Hercules Cushman—

                Item I give & bequeath to my Grandson Noah Cushman Son of my Son William Cushman deceased & to his Heirs & assigns forever, two hundred Dollars to be paid to him when he shall arrive to twenty one Years of Age by my Son Hercules Cushman.—

                Item I give & bequeath to my two Granddaughters namely Mercy Lyman & Betsey Liman both Daughters of said William Cushman deceased in equal halves & to their & each of their Heirs & Assigns forever all of my Pew standing in the lower Floor in the meeting house in Randolph in the State of Vermont.—

                Item I give & bequeath to my two Grandchildren namely Noah Cushman Perkins & Mercy Cushman Perkins both Children of my Daughter Mercy Perkins deceased each one of them seventy five Dollars to be paid to them by my son Hercules Cushman as followeth namely for said Noah Cushman Perkins to be paid his seventy five Dollars, when he shall arrive to twenty one Years of Age & for her the said Mercy Cushman Perkins to be paid her seventy five Dollars, when she shall arrive to eighteen Years of Age —

                Item I give and bequeath to my Granddaughter Lydia Ripley Lyon Daughter of my Daughter Joanna Lyon deceased & to her Heirs & Assigns forever one hundred Dollars to be paid to her by my Son Hercules Cushman when she shall arrive to eighteen Years of Age

                Item I give & bequeath to my sons Jacob Cushman, Andrew Cushman, Zenas Cushman second, Hercules Cushman, Elias Cushman, Daniel Cushman & Joseph Cushman, in equal proportion and to their Heirs and Assigns forever All of my wearing Apparel. —

                Item I give & bequeath to my Daughters, namely, Abigail Coombs Zilpah Cushman Priscilla Cushman, Salome Cushman & Zeruah Thomas Cushman in equal proportion & to their & each of their Heirs and Assigns forever all of the remaining part of my indoor moveable Estate that I have not otherwise disposed of. —

                Furthermore my Will is & I do hereby order, that what provisions I shall have at my decease in Store for my Family, shall be for the use of my Family & also that so much of the Fodder that I shall leave in Store for my Stock of Creatures as shall be necessary for keeping my said Stock untill the time of turning out Creatures to pasture shall be kept & improved for the keeping said Creatures untill the time of turning them out to pasture; Furthermore I do hereby give to my said Wife & hereby order my said Son Hercules to find & deliver to her one hundred pounds of good pork & one hundred Pounds of good Beef at the usual time of killing Creatures for winter Meat the Fall of the Year next after my Decease.–

                Item on Condition that my Son Hercules Cushman shall well & truly pay all of my just Debts, funeral Charges, the Expence of settling of my Estate & shall also pay the before named Legacies, that I by this Will have given & ordered for him to pay, I do hereby give & bequeath to my said Son Hercules Cushman and to his Heirs & Assigns forever all of the remaining part & Residue of my Estate of all Sorts real & personal including the Reversion of the real Estate, that I have by this Will given the use of to my said Wife during her natural Life and not to her Heirs & Assigns —

                And I do hereby revoke & disannul all former Wills made by me —

                Lastly my Will is & I do hereby appoint my said Son Hercules Cushman sole Executor of this my last will and Testament

                Thus hoping that this my last will & Testament will be kept & performed according to the true Intent & Meaning thereof I the before named Noah Cushman have hereunto set my hand & seal this ninth day of March in the year of our Lord eighteen hundred & eighteen —

        Signed, sealed published pronounced

        and declared by the said Noah Cushman

        to be his last Will and Testament                                                                            Noah Cushman                                 (seal)

        in presence of us ~

                Isaac Thomson

                Squire Tinkham

                Ransom T. Wood

 

Presented for probate on 15 April 1818 by Hercules Cushman Esqr., the Executor therein named, and proved by Squire Tinkham and Isaac Thomson Esqr., two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Hercules Cushman, the before named Executor.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 49, p. 277-280, from FHL microfilm #0550905.

 

 

Will of Priscilla Cushman of Middleborough, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1769) *

This eighteenth day of March A.D.1769, I Priscilla Cushman of Middleborough in the county of Plymouth widdow, being in a very weak & Languishing condition, and sensible of my own mortality, knowing that it is appointed once for all to die, but through the infinite goodness of Almighty GOD, am of a sound disposing mind & memory, thanks therfor be rendered to Almighty GOD for the same; wherefore calling to mind the the mortality of my body, knowing that is appointed for all living once to die, do make & ordain this to be my Last will & testament.

Principally & first of all I recomend my soul into the hands of Almighty GOD that gave it and my body I recomend to the earth, to be buried in a decent & christian burial at the discretion of my executor hereafter-named nothing doubting but by the General resurrection I shall receive the same again by the mighty power of GOD, and as touching such worldly estate as it hath pleased GOD to bless me with in this Life, I give, demise, & dispose of the same in the following manner & form.

Imprimis, I give & bequeath unto my welbeloved son John Cobb my six pewter platters marked with the letters P.T.~~

Item, I give & bequeath unto my welbeloved daughter Martha Eaton wife of Lot Eaton my looking glass & blue bed-quilt.

Item. I give & bequeath unto my wel-beloved daughter Priscilla Cushman, my chest with one dran in the same, & all my diaper.~~

Item, I give & bequeath unto my beloved son Isaac Cushman two of my silver tea-spoons marked with the letters I.C.~~

Item, I give & bequeath unto my two sons Andrew Cushman & Perez Cushman, my other two silver tea-spoons that are marked with the letters A.C. & P.C. likewise

I give & bequeath to my said son Andrew a silver neck buckle.~~

Item, I give & bequeath to my daughter Susañah Cushman my iron teakettle.—

Item, I give & bequeath unto my beloved daughter Patience Cushman two pair of my best sheets, Likewise do give to her my sd daughter all that she hath cost me for her support since her honrd father William Cushman decd, & I do acquit her of the same so as there may be nothing taken out of her portion Left her by her said father for her maintenance, since his decease, to this time.

Item, I give & bequeath unto my daughter in law Joanna Thomas wife of Ebenezer Thomas junr my pannel with the furniture.~~

Item, I give & bequeath unto my four aforesaid daughters, viz, Martha Eaton, Priscilla Cushman, Susanna Cushman & Patience Cushman, all my wearing apparel together with my gold necklace & six gold rings, & gold locket & jewels & gold buttons & silver shoe buckles, & all my cloathing of what nature soever, to be equally divided between them.~~

Item, I give & bequeath unto Joseph Cushman, Zenas Cushman, William Cushman, Noah Cushman, Isaac Cushman, Andrew Cushman, & Perez Cushman, all the remaining part of my personal estate not yet given away, to be equally divided between them after my just debts & funeral charges being first paid out of the same, and further my will is that all the foregoing legacies that is given away be given to them & their heirs & assigns forever.—

And my will is, & I do hereby appoint John Weston of Middleborough in the county of Plymouth gentl to be the sold executor of this my last will & testament, Thus knowing that this my last will & testament will be kept & performd according to the true interest & meaning hereof: utterly disallowing all other wills, ratifying & confirming this only to be my Last will & testament. In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand & seal this day & year above-written

                                                                                                                                                Priscilla Cushman

Signed, sealed, published & declared by the sd Pris. Cushman to be her last will & testamt. in presence of

Isaac Tinkham     Nelson Finney     Shubael Tinkham

 

Probated on 1 May 1769, presented by John Weston of Middleborough, gent., the Executor, and proved by Nelson Finney & Shubael Tinkham.

The inventory of Priscilla Cushman, dated 27 May 1769, was appraised by Benjamin White, Nelson Finney, and Edmund Weston junr, and totalled £70.0.11.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 20, p. 235-236, from FHL microfilm #0550711.

 

 

Will and Codicil of Robert Cushman of Kingston, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1747) *

In the Name of God Amen I Robert Cushman of Kingston in the County of Plimouth yeoman being of a Disposing mind & Memory blessed be God & Calling to mind My own Mortality Knowing that it is appointed for all to die do Make & ordain this my Last Will & Testimony in manner & form following I bequeath my soul to God that Gavest me & my Body to the Earth With a desent Christian Buriall In a hopes of a blessed resurrection & as to The outward Estate it hath pleased God to bless me with I Dispose of the same In the following order & form. ~~~

Imprimis I give & bequeath to my dear & Loving wife Prudence Cushman all that Part of my dwelling house In where I now live & the use & Improvement of all My land that I,ve not allready Disposd. of by deeds viz. what is reservd. to Me in sd. Deeds this Dureing Life or widowhood 2 cows & 6 sheep my son Robt. To keep sd. Cows & Sheep & to be his at my wifes decease & Robert to have my mare or Horse That I shall leave & take Care to see that my wife be sutebale carried to Meeting to have the use of my best Bed that is now in the Use for her use Dureing life or Widoohood: & to have her own bed She brought with Her, to be at her Dispose & upon her Second marriage to have all she brought with her

Item I give & bequeath Unto my beloved Son Robert Cushman & to his heirs & Assigns forever all the Remainder of my Sixty acre Lott that I,ve not allready given away by deed allso one acre that was Reserved by the County Road Where I sho,ud see cause to take it also half of two Lotts of Land butting Upon the Long Valley as we go to Agawom that is the great Lott the small Lot Lies forever down confirming this & what I,ve already given to him by Deed.

Item I Give & bequeath unto my Loving Son Thomas Cushman ten shillings Old Tenour & this with what I,ve allready Given I Judge to be his Portion~

Item I Give & bequeath unto my Loving son Joshua Cushman ten shillings This with what I,ve allready Given him I Judge to be his Portion.

Item I Give & bequeath unto my Loving son Jonathan Cushman his heirs & assigns for-ever the one half of two Lotts of Land in the Last Division Of Plimouth commons the Great Lott is butted on the Long Valley as we go to Agawom the small Lott lies Lowerdown, with a confirmation of what I,ve allready given him by deed. ~~

Item I Give & bequeath unto my beloved Daughter Ruth Perkins fifteen pounds Old Tenour & this with what she has allready had I Judge to be her Portion

Item. I Give & bequeath unto my Loving Daughter Abigal Leonard the bed I useuly lie on & the furniture to have after my wifes decease or Second marriage Allso fifteen pounds old tenor to be paid out of my Estate & this with what I,ve allready given her I Judge to be her Portion.

Item I Give & bequeath unto my Loving Daughter Hannah Washburn fifteen Pounds old tenour & this with what Ive Then allready Give her I Judge to be her portion

Item Also my mind is that my Son Robert shall one Chain & then my log Chain & other Chains Plows Carts Drafts yooks & my Farming Tools shall be equally devided between my two Sons Robert and Jonathan. & after my just Debts are pd. & my funerall Charges Dischargd. what shall Remain of my personal Estate I put into the hands of my wife for Her use & Comfort & after my wifes decease or marriage again there to be to my Son Robert.

Lastly I do hearby Nominate ordain & appoint my Dear & Loving son Robert Cushman Executor of this my Last will & Testament hearby Revoking maiking void all other former will or Wills Codicial or Codicials heretofore made & Confirming this & no other to be my last will & Testament as wittness my hand & Seal this ninth day of February annoque Domini. 1746.-7

Signed Sealed & declared                                                                                                                  his

   By the abovesaid Robert                                                                                                Robert     G)    Cushman

Cushman to be his last will                                                                                                                 mark

& Testament before us.

  James Harlow

  Jabez Washburn

  Francis Adams

 

Now further know ye that notwithstanding Any thing aforesd. That my Son Robert shall have all my Plows Carts & Husbandry tooles & no Devition to be made & my Grand-son Robert to have my arms & Amunition. Signd. Seald. May 9th. 1749 this Publishd. & declared by the abovesd.

  Nathan Perkings                                                                                                                                his

  Benja. Eaton                                                                                                                       Robert    R   Cushman

  Francis Adams                                                                                                                                   mark

 

Presented for probate on 7 Nov. 1757 by James Harlow, Jabez Washburn and Francis Adams, the Excetr. within namd. being dead, the Subscribers to the within will; & made oath that they saw the sd. Robert Cushman Sign Seal & Deliver & heard him declare this will to be his last Will & Testament… and at ye. same time ye. sd. Nathan Perkins & Francis Adams Subscribers to the within Codiciall made oath that they saw The said Robt. Cushman the Testator sign Seal & heard him declare This annexd. Codicial appertain to & apart of this his sd. last Will & Testament… Approved on 7 Nov. 1757.

Letters of Administration Cum Testamento annexo were granted to Thomas Cushman of Kingston, yeoman, on 7 Nov. 1757.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of mr. Robert Cushman late of Kingston, was appraised on 24 Mar. 1758 by Robt. Bradford, John Faunce, and Nathan Perkins, and totaled £125.4.6. The administrator gave his oath to the inventory on 30 Mar. 1758.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 14, pp. 410-412, 527, from FHL microfilm #0551542.

 

 

Will of Robert Cushman of Marshfield, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1833) *

                In the name of God, Amen. I Robert Cushman of Marshfield in the County of Plymouth and Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Yeoman, being in possession of my reason and understanding, but conscious of the uncertainty of human life, do make and ordain this my last Will and Testament, in manner following, that is to say. ~~

        First. I give & devise unto my daughter Deborah Smith her heirs and assigns forever, in addition to five hundred dollars, that I gave her when she was married, all that part of my Winsor land situated in Duxbury in said County, that lies on the Northerly and Easterly side of the following line to wit: beginning at the center of the Westerly line of Widow Hathaways house lot, and the Easterly end of a fence; thence running with said fence north eighty two and an half degrees West as far said fence extends – thence on the same course to a stake by the meadow thence North ten degrees East thirteen rods to a stake – thence North eighty seven & a quarter degrees West four rods & eighteen links to a stake thence North about six degrees East ten rods & two links to a stake – thence North eighty six degrees West to the creek.

        Secondly. I give and devise to my daughter Ruth Winsor, her heirs & assigns forever, in addition to five hundred dollars, that I gave her when she was married, all the remaining part of said tract of Winsor land lying on the Southwesterly side of the above described line.

        Thirdly. I order my Executor hereafter named, to retain in his hands five hundred dollars in money, and so long as my daughter Persis shall remain the wife of Daniel Weston, I direct my Executor to pay to her personally so much of the interest of said sum, as in his discretion shall be necessary for the support of herself & children – relying with confidence on his fidelity & honor so to execute this trust as shall most contribute to the comfort & convenience of my said daughter and her children. And in case of the death or divorce of her husband, leaving said Persis, I then order my said Executor to pay to her the said sum of five hundred dollars, and also to pay her so much as, with what he may before have paid her, shall be equal to six percent on said five hundred dollars from the time of my decease. And in case she shall decease leaving her present husband, I direct my Executor then to pay to her children who shall survive her the same amount which would be payable to her in case of her surviving her husband. Also I give to my said daughter Persis the use of the easterly front room in my dwelling-house and the bed-room adjoining, with a privilege in the Cellar, and of using the kitchen for the purposes of baking & washing – Also wood sufficient to support one fire, to be delivered at the door of said house – also the use and income of one Cow to be kept on my farm, separate from the rest if she chooses. All which rights & privileges and provisions are to be had and enjoyed by her, personally so long as she may continue the wife of her present husband, and until she may be again married, without any right of disposing of any or either of them to any other person or persons.

        Fourthly. I give and devise unto my son Joseph P. Cushman his heirs & assigns forever, all the rest, residue & remainder of my estate both real, personal & mixed, wherever it may be.

        And, Lastly, I do appoint my said son Joseph P. Cushman sole Executor of this my last Will & Testament, hereby ordering him to pay all my just debts & funeral charges.

                                                                                                                In Testimony Whereof, I the said Robert Cushman have hereunto set my hand and seal this first day of June in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and thirty three

                                                                                                                                                Robert Cushman                              (seal)

                Signed, sealed and published by said Robert Cushman, declaring this to be his last Will & Testament in the presence of us, who at his request were called as Witnesses to the same, and in his presence & in the presence of each other did hereto subscribe our names.

                Eleazer Harlow

                Nathaniel Ford

                James P. Ford

 

Presented for probate by Joseph P. Cushman, the Executor, on the first Tuesday of October, 1837, and proved by Eleazer Harlow and Nathaniel Ford, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters Testamentary were granted to Joseph P. Cushman, the Executor.

 

Joseph P. Cushman, of Marshfield, was granted Administration of the Estate of Robert Cushman, late of Marshfield, yeoman, on 3 Oct. 1837, with John Ford Junior and Eleazer Harlow, both of Marshfield, as sureties.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 79, p. 417-419, from FHL microfilm #0555265, and Vol. 1G, p. 313.

 

 

Will of Stephen Cushman of Carver, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1866) *

Be it remembered that I Stephen Cushman of Carver in the County of Plymouth and State of Massachusetts do on this tenth day of August in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and sixty six, do make and publish this my last Will and testament in manner as follows Viz’.

Firstly – I give and bequeath to my only child Susan Lincoln the improvement of all my property both real and personal during her natural life, under the direction of a Trustee herein-after mentioned. Should he die or resign a person is to be appointed by the Judge of Probate in his place.

Secondly. I give to my grandchild or grand-children being the children or child of my daughter Susan Lincoln all my property both real and personal after the death of their mother,– I mean and wish to be understood, they are only to have the use of the property under the same Trustee, as along as the law will permit.–and when the Law will not permit it any longer – then my will is that all my property both real and personal shall go to them equally.

Thirdly. I appoint Jesse Murdock of Carver as Trustee and I confer on him the full authority over all my property both real and personal to have full power to sell and convey the same, to make any change in the matter that he may think will be for the benefit of my daughter or her child or children – having confidence in the Trustee no bond shall be required of him – and he shall not be answerable for any loss where he exercises common and ordinary prudence – the waiving of a bond shall not apply to the Trustee appointed by the Judge of Probate.

Lastly. I nominate and appoint the said Jesse Murdock Executor of this my last Will and Testament who is directed out of my estate to pay my debts and my funeral charges.

                Signed, sealed and published by the said Stephen Cushman and declaring this to be his last will and testament in the presence of us, who at his request were called as witnesses of the same, and in his presence did here subscribe our names.

                                                                                                                                                Stephen Cushman                            (seal)

                Jesse Murdock

                Marcus M. Shaw

                Samuel Shaw

 

Hon Wm H. Wood,

                Dear Sir – I decline the trust of acting as Excer and Trustee on the Estate of the late Stephen Cuishmond [sic] of Carver,

                                Yours Respectively,

                                Jesse Murdock

 

Thomas Southworth, of Carver, petitioned for administration of the will of Stephen Cushman, late of Carver, the executor therein named having declined, on the second Monday of June 1870 before Wm H. Wood, Judge of Probate Court. Thomas Southworth, of Carver, was granted Administration with the will annexed of the estate of Stephen Cushman, late of Carver, on 13 June 1870, with Jesse Murdock and George P. Bowers, of Carver, as sureties.

 

William Savery and Philander W. Bump, of Carver, and N. Frank Shurtleff, of Middleborough, were appointed to appraise the estate of Stephen Cushman, late of Carver, on 13 June 1870. His real estate was valued at $6588, and his personal estate totaled $1136.78. Thomas Southworth, the executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 12 Sept. 1870.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 106, pp. 550-551, 566, from FHL microfilm #0555647, Vol. 120, p. 34, and Vol. 109, p. 370.

 

 

Will of Susanna Cushman of Carver, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1856) *

Be it Remembered that I Susanna Cushman of Carver in the County of Plymouth, Single Woman, do on this Thirty first day of March in the Year of our LORD one thousand Eight hundred and Fifty Six, make and publish this my last Will and Testament in manner following.

In the first place I will is that my Executors pay all my just debts and Funeral Charges, then I give and bequeath to my Brother Stephen Cushman, all my right in the Homestead Farm, and buildings for and during his natural life, for him to Cut Wood and improve as his own so long as he shall live, Also I give him my part of what we own together in Common and undivided in Carver and Wareham, the true meaning is all my Real Estate shall be his to improve during his natural life and no longer.

Item.  I also give and bequeath all the Real Estate that I have given the improvement to my Brother Stephen during his life time to my three Brothers and a Nephew, Thomas M. Cushman, Isaac Cushman, Caleb Cushman & Heman Cushman to them and their Heirs forever to be equally divided amongst the four Heirs named, after Brother Stephen has departed this life.

Item, I give and bequeath to my Brother Stephen Cushman all my money and securities for Money in Saving Institutions or elsewhere, but he the said Stephen Cushman shall pay all the demands like debts out of the money I give him.

Item.  I give and bequeath to my Brothers Isaac Caleb and Heman Cushman all my Household furniture Consisting of Beds & Bedding and a number of other articles to be divided equally amongst the three, I also nominate and appoint Stephen Cushman and Thomas M. Cushman to execute this my last Will and Testament in manner above described,  In testamony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and fixed my seal, the day and year above Written

                                                                                                                                                                her

                                                                                                                                                Susanna  X  Cushman                        (seal)

                                                                                                                                                                mark

In presence of

Jonathan Cobb

Almira M. Savery

Joannah Maxim

 

Presented for probate on the first Tuesday of July 1856 by Stephen & Thomas M. Cushman, the Executors therein named, and proved by Jonathan Cobb, Almira M. Savery and Joanna Maxim, the witnesses.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 98, p. 323-325, from FHL microfilm #0555643

 

 

Will of Thomas Cushman of Kingston, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1768) *

                                                In the Name of God, Amen.

The sixteenth day of February 1768. Thomas Cushman of Kingston in the county of Plymouth, in the province of the Massachusetts-Bay in New-England yeoman, being in a very low state of health and weak of body, but of a perfect mind and memory, thanks be given to almighty God therefor, calling to mind the mortality of my body and knowing it is appointed for all once to die, make & ordain this my Last will & testament, that is to say Principally & first of all I give and recomend my soul into the hands of God that gave it, and my body I recomend to the earth to be buried in a decent christian burial at the discretion of my executors, nothing doubting but at the general resurrection I shall receive the same again by the mighty power of God; and as touching such worldly estate wherewith it hath pleased God to bless me in this life, I give, demise & dispose of the same in the following manner & form. ~

        Imprimis, I give and bequeath unto my beloved son Amaziah Cushman & to his as followeth, the southeasterly part of my homestead begining at the country road at the northerly corner of the Land I bought of Robert Carver thence southwest by sd. Carver,s land to a fence, thence near southeast as my orchard fence now standeth until it comes within four rods to the southerly corner of my orchard fence, from thence near southwest by a white oak tree on the easterly side of the brook called Smelt-brook, thence the same course over the said brook to a rock and from the said rock. [sic]

I also give unto my son Amaziah the one half of the upper end of all my homestead farm lying on the southwesterly side of the said Smelt-brook, also the whole of my dwelling house on said Land & the one half of my barn, also the one half of a piece of salt-meadow that lieth on the easterly side of the meadow belonging to the heirs of deacon Wrestling Brewster deced, and by the river & creek from the corner of my fence to the first opening of the said creek that runs into Jones-river also the one quarter part of my woodland with my other son, and the one quarter part of the pew in the meeting-house in Kingston, also my gun & amunition, also a small colored chest. ~

        Item, I give and bequeath unto my beloved son Elisha Cushman & to his heirs the other half of my homestead farm that I haven’t given unto my son Amaziah, & the other half of my barn that I have not given to my son Amaziah, & the other half of the piece of salt meadow with my son Amaziah, & the one quarter part of all my woodlands, also the one quarter part of the pew in the meeting-house in Kingston.

        Item, I give & bequeath unto my beloved son James Cushman & to his heirs the piece of salt-meadow I bought of John Faunce Late of Kingston deced, & the one quarter part of my woodland in Kingston, & the one quarter part of my pew in the meeting-house in sd. town, also the one half of my cedarswamp Lying & being in the township of Hallifax.

        Item, I give & bequeath unto my beloved son John Cushman, & to his heirs, a certain piece of salt meadow lying at the corner of my fence at the first opening of the creek, so down the creek to Tyler,s meadow & Lothrop,s & upland, and the one quarter part of my woodland in Kingston with the one quarter part of my pew in the meeting house in said town. and the other half of my cedar-swamp lying & being in the township of Hallifax that I have not given unto my son James. Furthermore my will is that each of my four sons Amaziah, Elisha, James, & John, they & their heirs shall have liberty to pass & repass thro’ each other,s Land where it may be the least damage to each other through gates or barns. ~

        Item, I give & bequeath unto my beloved daughters Desire Cushman & Sarah Cushman, to them & their heirs, to be equally divided between them all my indoor personal estate excepting my wearing apparel & a small colord. chest & full,d cloth & the provision for a season comes about. Also my will is that my two daughters Desire Cushman & Sarah Cushman may have the Liberty of living in my great-chamber, and a right my cellar so long as they remain unmarried. ~

        Also my will is that my son Amaziah Cushman shall pay unto my son James Cushman, when my son James comes to the age of twentyone years, fifty three pounds, six shillings & eight pence, and the intrest on the same after my son Amaziah shall arrive to the age of twenty one, until paid. ~

        Also my will is that my son Elisha Cushman shall pay unto my son John Cushman when my son John comes to the age of twenty one years the sum of fifty three pounds, six shillings & eight pence, and the interest from the time that my son Elisha shall arrive to twenty one years of age until paid. ~

        Item, My will is that all my outdoors personal estate that is out of doors personal, & my wearing apparel & full’d cloath with the sixteenth part of the furnace in Kingston & a small color’d chest, & the improvement of all my real estate until my son Amaziah arrives to the age of twentyone years, after my funeral charges are paid & my just debts are all discharged, if any there be, it shall be equally divided among all my children. ~

                                                   Likewise, I do hereby constitute, make, & ordain my brother John Faunce & mr. John Gray my executors of this my Last will and testament.

        Likewise, I do constitute & appoint my brother John Faunce guardian for my daughter Desire Cushman, sons James Cushman & John Cushman during their minority.

        Likewise, I do constitute & appoint mr. John Gray, guardian for my daughter Sarah Cushman, sons Amaziah Cushman & Elisha Cushman, during their minority.

        And I do hereby disallow & disanul all & every other former testament, wills, legacies & bequests, executors, by me in any ways before named, willed, & bequeathed, ratifying & confirming this and no other to be my Last will & testament. In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand & seal the day & year above-written. ~

Signed, sealed, published, pronounced, and                                                                  Thomas Cushman            (seal)

declared by the said Thos. Cushman to be

his last will and testament, in presence

of us the subscribers.

                                Josiah Fuller, Wrestling Brewster, Lidia Fuller

 

Presented for probate on 1 Aug. 1768 by John Faunce and John Gray, the Executors therein named, and proved by Wrestling Brewster, one of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to John Faunce and John Gray, the Executors.

 

The Inventory of the estate of Mr. Thomas Cushman, late of Kingston, was appraised on 10 Aug. 1768 by Robert Bradford, Jonathan Cushman, and Benjamin Cook, and totaled £554.12.4, including his homestead farm and buildings valued at £236.13.4, and two lots of salt meadow valued at £96.13.4. John Faunce and John Gray, the Executors, gave their oath to the inventory on 20 Aug. 1768.

 

Received of John Gray Executor on the last will of Thomas Cushman late of Kingston Deceasd the sum of four pounds eight Shillings & six pensce it being for two Sixth parts of the ballance due from the said Executors account to James Cushman and John Cushman who are minors, Kingston November the 5th 1771.

                                                                                                                                                Jabez Washburn, junr. Guardian

 

We the Subscribers do acknowlege that we have receivd of Mr. John Faunce and John Gray Sundreys of Indoor Moveables (Given to us by Our Honored father in his last Will) amounting to the sum of Sixty five pounds ten shillings & eight pence as per Schedule of said Goods to us delivered

Witness our hands at Kingston May the 16th. A.D. 1771.

                                                                                                                                                Desire Cushman

                                                                                                                                                Sarah Cushman

 

Received of John Gray Executor on the last Will of my honored father Thomas Cushman late of Kingston deceasd the sum of two pounds four shillings & three pence in full for my part of the ballance due to me from said Executors Account, I say received pr. me                                                Desire Cushman

Kingston October the 2. 1771.

 

Received of Mr. John Gray Executor on the last Will of my honored father Thomas Cushman late of Kingston deceasd the sum of two pounds four shillings & three pence in full for my part of the ballance due to me from said Executors Account, I say recievd

Kingston October 2. 1771                                                                                                 pr me Sarah Cushman

 

Deacon Peleg Wadsworth of Duxbury, yeoman, Ebenezer Washburne Gentleman & Josiah Fuller yeoman, both of Kingston, were appointed to divide the all the wood land which Thomas Cushman late of Kingston died seized of within said Town into four equal parts or share and to assign and set off to his sons Amaziah Cushman, Elisha Cushman, James Cushman, and John Cushman, one part each on 5 Aug. 1778.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 20, p. 91-93, from FHL microfilm #0550711, Vol. 21, p. 70 [receipts], and Vol. 25, p. 225 [division of wood land]. The original will is not filed in his Probate Docket #5900 to crosscheck. I think there might be lines missing in the transcribed will.

 

 

Will of William Cushman of Willington, Hartford County, Connecticut (1775) *

In the Name of God Amen this 27th Day of February 1775 I William Cushman of Willington on the County of Hartford and Colony of Connecticut in New England being now advand in years but of Perfect mind and memory thanks be givin to to the God of all mercys there for and and now under a Sence of the mortality of my Body as Knowing it is appointed for all men once to Die and Whilst I am now in a Comfortable State of Health it Being the most Proper time to Recollect and Dispose of what temporal Intrest god has been Pleased to bless me With in this Life and therefore I Dispose of all in this my Last Will and Testament as follows first of all I Recommend My Sole to god that gave it and my Body to the Dust to be Buried With a Decent Christian Burial at the Discretion of my Executor here after Named Nothing Doubting but Soul and Body Will be Reunited at the Last Day by the almighty Power of god

and as to my Temporal Intrest in the first place my Will is that all my Just Debts and funiral Charges be adjusted and Paid

Item I give and Bequeath to my Well Beloved Wife Abagal the Improvement of one half my farm and the West Part of the House and Chamber over the Same and the one half of the Cutting and a Suitable Part of the Barn for Such Effects as She Shall Have occasion for and Likewise a pass and Repass through the East Room in Said House for up Chamber Down Seller and out to the high way at all times the whole of the above so Long as She Remains my Widow and Like Wise I give to my Said Wife to be at her Disposal for Ever one Cow one good feather Bed and furniture and a Sufficiency of Houshold furniture as her then Circumstances for her Comfortably to Keep house –

Item I give to my Son Solomon Cushman Twenty Pounds Lawfull money Worth in Live Stock in one year after my Decease that being the Whole of his portion with what he hath heretofore had –

Item I give and Bequeath to my Son William five Pounds Lawfull money worth in Live Stock in one year after my Deceas that Being his Portion with what he hath heretofore had –

Item I give to my Son Alderton forty Shillings L: mony Worth in Live Stock in one year after my Deceas that being his Portion With what he hath had –

Item I give to my Son Joshua Thirty Pounds worth in Stock in one Year after my Decease that being the Whole of his Portion –

Item I give and Bequeath to my Son Benjamin Twenty Shillings mony Worth in Live Stock to be paid in one year after my Decease that being the Whole of his portion with What he hath heretofore had

Item I give and Demise to my Son Joseph the Whole of my Estate both Real ands Personal after the Debts and Legacies above mentioned and together with what I here after shall order to be paid to my Daughters &c be Setled and Paid the Said Joseph to hold the Same to him self his heirs and assigns for Ever –

Item I give to my Daughter Sarah Allen Twenty Shillings L: mony worth in Live Stock that being her Portion with what She hath heretofore had –

Item I give to my Daughter Lydia orcutt Twenty Shillings mony worth in Live Stock that being the Whole of her Portion With What She hath had –

Item I give to my Daughter Abigail Blogget five Pounds L mony Worth in Live Stock that being the Whole of her Portion with what She hath had –

Item I Give to my Daughter Mary Antizel five Pounds L mony Worth in Live Stock that being the Whole of her Portion with what She hath had –

and the Whole of the Legacyes to my Daughters as above Bequeathd to be paid to Each of them in one year after my Decease –

and I Do make Constitute and appoint Moses Holmes Esqr of Said Willington to geather with my Said Wife Abigail to be Sole Executors to this my Last Will and Testament Ratyfying this and no other to be my Last Will and Testament Signd Seald Publishd and Pronounced the Day and year above Written –

                                                                                                                                                William Cushman                            (seal)

Witnesses }           Abel Holmes

                                Amos Holmes

Present  }               Moses Holmes

 

Proved on 2 July 1778 by Moses Holmes Esqr, Abel Holmes and Amos Holmes, the witnesses before Isaac Pinney Judge.

The Inventory of the Estate of Mr William Cushman late of Willington was appraised by Elias Lee, Seth Johnson and Isaac Johnson on dated 2 Feb. 1778, but not totaled. His home lot and buildings valued at £500.0.0, and an acre lot on the East Side of the road valued at £60.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Town of Stafford Register of Probate Records Vol. 2, p. 3-5, from FHL microfilm #0005742.

 

 

Will of Uriah Cutting of Waltham and Marlborough, Middlesex County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1782) *

In the Name of God Amen The Fifth Day of February Anno Domini One thousand Seven hundred and Eighty two I Uriah Cutting  late of Waltham in the County of Middlesex and Commonwealth of Massachusetts & then An Inn-holder but now of Marlborough in the County & Commonwealth aforesaid Yeoman being Sick and week in Body but of perfect & Sound disposing mind and Memory, Thanks be given unto God Therefore, calling Unto mind the Mortality of my Body and knowing that it is appointed for all men Once to die do make and ordain this my Last Will and Testament: That is principally and first of all I give and recommend my Soul into the Hands of God that gave it: And for my Body I Recommend it to the Earth to be buried in Decent Christian like Manner at the discretion of my executor hereafter in this writing named nothing doubting but at the General Resurrection I shall receive the Same again by the Mighty power of God And touching such worldly Estate wherewith it hath pleased God to bless me in this Life, I give, devise and dispose of the same in the following manner and form

Imprimis I give to my well beloved wife Cate if she on my decease will have the full improvement of (for her use & Benefit her thirds or dower in & to the Real Estate of her first Husband) Namely one third part of my Household goods and Furniture including every part & parcel thereof (Excepting those articles of Household Goods & Furniture which I have Leased with my Real Estate which Real Estate lieth in Waltham aforesaid) to be taken by her in such articles as she shall Chuse & to be by her taken at the prices such articles shall be apprized & Inventoried at by the apprizers who shall apprize and Inventory the Estate I shall die Seized and possessed of if she sees cause to Chuse the same and doth do it: but if she Refuses or doth delay or neglect Unreasonably to Make her choice of said Articles of Household Furniture at the prices they shall be apprized at then one third part of Said Furniture & Household Goods

are to be set out & delivered. to her by My Executor and shallbe most convenient and Suitable for Housekeeping & Upholding life

 

I also order that out of my Estate be raised and paid to her the said Cate fifty Silver Dollars yearly & every year during her Natural life which Bequeathes Made for her support & conveniency to be for her dower and thirds in & to my Estate which I suppose to be More to her then the Income or benefit of one third part of My Estate as it would have Arreived to her had I made no will & which fifty dollars is to be paid by My Executor so long as he has the care of my Estate in the Nonage of My Son

I also order that if My wife aforenamed and my Executor hereafter named agree that She keep, takes proper care of suitably provides for Maintains Cloaths diets & in a sufficient manner takes care of my three youngest Children Namely Thankful, Nancy and Richard till they are each of them Respectively seven years of age both in sickness and in health that my Executor pay her my said wife fifty Silver Dollars a year for four years which will make two hundred Dollars in Silver money for taking Care of & providing every thing necessary & convenient both in sickness & in health for said Children till each of them be Seven years of age & on Condition she don’t take proper care of & provide for them the said Children then & in that case My will is that my Executor take effectual care to see that the aforenamed children are taken proper & suitable care of & brought up as they ought to be

And I do Will & order that my Executor hereafter Named do take effectual care that all my Children are properly taken care of & Suitably Educated taught & instructed in Reading writing and Arithmetick and to [?lawful] Business or calling for them to follow in this life suitable for them

 

I also Will and order that out of the Remainder of My Personal Estate – and the yearly Rents of my Real Estate arising from it being Rented out My Just debts and Funeral Charges with the Settlement of my Estate & the Bringing up of My Children in a proper and Suitable Manner be paid & discharged by My Executor who I hereby Request to take Effectual care of My Children that they are well Educated in the Christian & Calvinithical Religion as well as in Reading writing & Arithmetick and in proper & Suitable business for them to follow

 

I also Will and order that after the Lease that I have given of My Real Estate is Expired & out that my Executor Lease out and improve to the best advantage & the most profit for my Children the said Real Estate that I shall die seized and possessed of from time to time taking Effectual care that the premises are kept in good order and Repair As they ought to be & that there is not any strip or waste made of or on the same till one of my sons comes into the possession of the same At the time hereafter Expressed

 

I Give and Bequeath confirm and grant unto my Son Uriah Cutting being my Eldest son his Heirs and Assigns forever he living to have surviving Issue of his Body the whole and all of My Lands and Tenaments of every sort kind and Nature including Buildings and all Real Estate of whatever kind that I shall die Seized and possessed of in Fee Simple or in Revertion or Revertions Remainder or Remainders for him to be put into the improvement of by my Executor when he is twenty one years of Age Willing and ordering that after He comes into the improvement of the same pay the sums & Legacies hereafter named which I give and dispose of as herein Mentioned Namely

 

I Will & order that my Son Uriah after he is twenty one years of Age pay to my beloved wife aforenamed if she be then living every year she lives the aforesaid Sum of fifty Silver Dollars which is before that time to be paid by my Executor as afore is Expressed

 

Item I Give and Bequeath to my Daughter Elisabeth as her portion in & to my Estate to be paid her by My Son Uriah at her age of twenty one years or if she Marries before she is twenty one years old then it is to be paid at her Marriage Namely the Sum of thirty pounds Lawful Silver Money

 

Item I Give and Bequeath to my Daughter Mary as her part & portion in & to my Estate thirty pounds lawful Silver Money to be paid her by said Uriah My Said Son at her age of twenty one years or when she Marries if She Marries before She is twenty one years old

 

Item I Give and Bequeath to my Daughter Cate thirty pounds to be paid her by My Son Uriah at her age of twenty one years or if She Marries under that age then said Sum to be paid at her Marriage

 

Item I Give and Bequeath to my Daughter Thankful the Sum of thirty pound Lawful Silver Money to be paid her at her being twenty one years of age or if She Marrys before She is twenty one year old then it is to be paid her at her Marriage by My Son Uriah

 

Item I give and Bequeath to My Daughter Nancy thirty pounds lawful Silver Money to be paid by my Son Uriah to her when she is twenty one year old or if She Marries before she is twenty one year old then it is to be paid her at her Marriage

 

Item I Give & Bequeath to my Son Richard Sixty pounds lawful Silver Money to be paid him when he is twenty one years of Age by my Son Uriah

 

And Provided my Son Uriah dies without Issue then and in that Case I Will Bequeath & Confirm the Real Estate aforesaid which is Willed to my Son Uriah to be to Said Richard his heirs & assigns After the decease of said Uriah any thing to the contrary herein contained Nothwithstanding he said Richard paying the Legacys & Sums aforesaid to his Mother and Sister that Remain unpaid at Said Time

I Will and order that all other Estate whether anything by the Renting said Premises or other wise & not herein disposed of be Equally divided among my Children aforenamed

 

I likewise hereby Constitute Make ordain and appoint My beloved Brother Amos Cutting of Marlborough in Said County Physitian my Only Sole and lawful Executor of this my last Will & Testament. And I do hereby utterly disallow revoke and disannul all and every other former Testaments Wills & Legacys Bequests and Executors by me in any ways before this time named willed and Bequeathed. Ratifying and confirming this & no other to be My Last Will and Testament In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand & Seal the day & Year first written

Signed Sealed Publishd. Pronounced and Declared by the said Uriah Cutting as his last Will and Testament in Presence of us the Subscribers

Garsham Biglow                                                                                                                  Uriah Cutting                                   (seal)

Samuel Straton

Jona. Ward

 

Presented for probate on 13 Nov. 1782 by Amos Cuttin, the Executor, and proved by Gershom Biglow and Jonathan Ward, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Amos Cutting, physician, with Gershom Bigelow, yeoman, both of Marlborough, County of Middlesex, and Jonathan Ward Esq. of Southborough, County of Worcester, as sureties.

 

The Account of Amos Cotting, Executor of the last Will & Testament of Uriah Cotting of Waltham, Inholder, listed the personal inventory of his estate valued at £203.5.10, and rents and income of the real estate to the 1st of April at £421. The inventory of his estate was appraised on 30 Nov. 1782 by Jona. Ward, Abner Sanderson and Abel Holden, who in addition to his personal estate listed his real estate dwelling house and barns and other buildings with about 35 acres of land lying in Waltham and Newton valued at £1340.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Middlesex County Probate Case #5697.

 

 

Will of David Darling of Pembroke, Plymouth County, Massachusetts Bay (1784) *

  In the name of God Amen – the fourteenth day of February A D. 1784 –I David Darling of Pembroke in the County of Plymouth and Commonwealth of Massachusetts, yeoman, being advanced in age, and under bodily infirmity but of a Sound mind and memory thanks be Given to God for the same, Calling to mind the mortality of my body and knowing that it is appointed for all men once to die, make this my Last will and testament

Imprimis– I Commit my Soul into the hands of God that Gave it, and my body to the Earth, to be buried in a Christian manner, at the discretion of my Executors hereafter named, and as touching such worldly Estate as it hath pleased God to bless me with in this Life, I Give and dispose of, in the manner & form following

Item – I Give unto my Son Samuel Darling twenty acres of wood Land out of the Lot that my Son John Darling deceased bought of Samuel Bartlett Esqr Late of Plymouth, deced, and is part of the forty first Lot in the Majors purchase, so Called, Lying in the town of Pembroke, said twenty acres to be taken off the South westerly end of said Lot; I also Give to my Son Samuel my best Suit of apparell; my mind and will is, that if my said Son Samuel Darling shall make any demands of my Estate as a debt due to him after my decease, my mind and will is the aforegoing Gifts to my said Son Saml. shall be void, and I Give the same to be equally divided between my Son Benja. Darling and my Daughter Mercy Richardson.~

Item – I Give to my Son Benja. Darling Eight acres of wood Land off my Homestead Lying at the Southerly end and adjoining to Sandy bottom pond and which is already Staked off—I also Give to my said Son Benja. the one half of the forty first Lot of Land in the Majors purchase not before Given away to my said Son Saml.—I also Give to my said Son Benja. the half of my Cedar Swamp that I bought of Deacon Bryant & Noah Morse.~

Item–I Give unto my Son Benjamin the one half of all my Personal Estate not before Given away, he paying one half of my just debts–I also Give to my Son Benja. Sixty pounds in Cash, to be paid him by my Daughter Mercy Richardson to him the said Benja. and to his Heirs and assigns forever –

Item –I Give to my Daughter Mercy Richardson all the Remainder of my Real & personal Estate not before Given away, she the said Mercy Supporting me during my natural Life, and paying to my Son Benja. ye. Sixty pounds in Cash, and paying the one half of my debts, to her the said Mercy Richardson and to her Heirs and assigns forever.— I hereby appoint my Son Benja. Darling and my Son in Law Stephen Richardson joint Executors to this my Last will & testament–In witness whereof, I the said David Darling have hereunto Sett my hand and Seal the day and year aforesaid. ~

Signed Sealed & published by the sd. David Darling                                                    David Darling                  (seal)

to be his Last will & testament in presence of

Jno. Turner – John Oldham – Sarah Record

 

Presented for probate on 18 Feb. 1785 by Benjamin Darling and Stephen Richardson, the Executors therein named, and proved by John Turner, John Oldham and Sarah Record, the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Benjamin Darling and Stephen Richardson, the before named Executors.

 

John Turner junr Gentm, Josiah Thomas, and Jno. Oldham, yeomen, all of Pembroke, were appointed to appraise the Estate of David Darling, late of Pembroke, yeoman, on 18 Feb. 1785. The Inventory of the Estate of David Darling, late of Pembroke, yeoman, dated 19 Feb. 1785, totaled £341.14.10, including his homestead farm valued at £200, and his out lands valued at £100. Benjamin Darling and Stephen Richardson, the Executors, gave their oath to the inventory on 19 Feb. 1785.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 29, p. 326-328, from FHL microfilm #0550715.

 

 

Will of Sarah Jane Davee of Plymouth, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1865) *

                                In the Name of God Amen,

I Sarah J. Davee of Plymouth in the County of Plymouth and Commonwealth of Massachusetts, being of a sound disposing mind and memory do make publish and declare this instrument to be my last Will and Testament, hereby revoking all other and former Wills by me made.

First, I appoint Samuel H. Doten of said Plymouth Executor of this will and direct him first to pay all my debts, funeral expenses and costs of administration out of my estate.

Second, If at the time of my decease the family graveyard or lot is not fixed as I direct and in the manner hereinafter specified, I direct my said Executor Samuel H. Doten (in case the same shall not have been sold in my life time) to sell and dispose of my house and land and my two seats in Pew No. 88 in the Unitarian Meeting House, and for the purpose of so doing, I, hereby give unto my Executor said Samuel H. Doten full power to execute and deliver all necessary deeds, conveyances and other instruments whether under seal or otherwise, which may be necessary to give a good and perfect title to the purchaser or purchasers of the same, and out of the proceeds arising from the said sale and from my other property if any to cause the family grave yard or burial lot to be levelled and made even ground, the present gravestones to be removed from the graves of my Father and Mother and the same replaced, with the best of slate grave-stones.– I direct also that the present gravestones be removed from the graves of Sylvester Davee and Betsey Davee and that the same be replaced with the best of white marble gravestones, and that the same kind of white marble stones be placed at my grave all properly inscribed, and that all be enclosed by a suitable iron fence,

Third, Whatever remains of my estate after full payment of the above expenses and charges, I give devise and bequeath to Mrs Abbie Virgin of said Plymouth, to have and take the use income and improvement of the same, and also to use so much of the principal of the same as she may need during the term of her natural life, and what remains of my estate at her decease I give devise and bequeath to be equally divided among Priscilla Abby Doten, Harriet Eliza Paulding, Solomon Davee, Samuel Cole Davee, Sylvester Davee and Sarah Sylvester Davee, to have and to hold to them their heirs and assigns forever,

                In testimony of all which I have hereunto set my hand and seal in the presence of the witnesses named below this thirty first day of October in the year of our Lord eighteen hundred and sixty five, the words “full power” being first interlined on the first page of this instrument.

                                                                                                                                                Sarah J. Davee                                 (seal)

Signed sealed published and declared by the said Sarah J. Davee as and for her last Will and Testament in our presence, and we in her presence, and at her request and in the presence of each other have hereunto subscribed our names as witnesses the words “full power” being interlined before the signing.

                                                Wm H. Whitman

                                                James Bates

                                                D. E. Damon

 

Presented for probate on the fourth Monday of March, 1875, by Samuel H. Doten, of Plymouth, with Chas. C. Doten and Stephen M. Burbank Jr. as sureties, and proved on 22 Mar. 1875.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 141, p. 335-336, from FHL microfilm #0556648, and Vol. 133, p. 256.

 

 

Will of Betsey Davie of Plymouth, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1842) *

        Be it known that I Betsey Davie of Plymouth in the County of Plymouth, Singlewoman, make this Instrument and declare it to be my last Will and Testament.

        I give, devise and bequeath all the Estate both Real and Personal of which I shall die seized and possessed to my mother Jedidah Davie and my sister Sarah J Davie and to the survivor of them, her heirs and assigns, forever.

        And I do constitute and appoint them Executors of this my last Will and Testament.

                In testimony whereof I have hereunto subscribed my name this twenty second day of March in the year one thousand eight hundred and forty two.

                                                                                                                                                Betsey Davee

        Signed, sealed, published and declared by the said Betsey Davie as her last Will and Testament in the presence of us who in her presence and in the presence of each other and at her request have subscribed our names as witnesses.

                Thomas Diman

                Benjamin Diman

                Caleb C. Bradford

 

Presented for probate on the second Monday of April, 1849, by Sarah Davie, one of the Executors, and proved by Thomas Diman and Benjamin Diman, two of the witnesses. Letters Testamentary were granted to Sarah J Davie, one of the Executors therein named, the other having previously deceased.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 91, p. 143-144, from FHL microfilm #0555640.

 

 

Will of Ichabod Davie of Plymouth, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1840) *

   In the name of God Amen.  I Ichabod Davie of Plymouth in the County of Plymouth, being of sound and disposing mind and memory do make and publish this my last Will and testament in manner following. I give bequeath and devise all the Estate and property of every description, real and personal of which I may die seized and possessed to my wife Nancy Davie to hold the same to her, her heirs and assigns forever, And I hereby constitute and appoint my said wife Nancy Davie to be sole executrix of this my last Will and testament

        In witness whereof I the said Ichabod Davie have hereunto set my hand and seal this twenty ninth day of December in the year of Our Lord one thousand eight hundred and forty.

                                                                                                                                                Ichabod Davie                                  (seal)

signed, sealed published and declared by the above named Ichabod Davie to be his last Will and testament, in the presence of us who at his request and in his presence have hereunto subscribed our names as witnesses to the same

        Nath M. Davis

        George W. Briggs

        Nathl Goodwin

 

Presented for probate on the third Monday of May 1848 by Nancy Davie, the Executor therein named, and proved by Nathaniel M. Davis and Nathaniel Goodwin, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters Testamentary were granted to Nancy Davie, the Executor.

 

Nancy Davie, of Plymouth, was granted Letters Testamentary on the Estate of Ichabod Davie, late of Plymouth, Merchant, on 15 May 1848, with Levi Barnes and Charles May, both of Plymouth, as sureties.

No inventory of the estate was recorded.

 

Jesse Harlow and Albert L. Barnes was appointed as Administrators with the will annexed of the Estate not already administered of Ichabod Davie, late of Plymouth, on 10 Feb. 1868, Nancy Davie, the Executrix, having since deceased without fully executing said will, with William H. Nelson and George H. Jackson, of Plymouth, as sureties.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 90, p. 202-203, from FHL microfilm #0555639, Vol. 1G, p. 486, and Vol. 120, p. 389.

 

 

Will of Jedidah Davie of Plymouth, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1842) *

        Be it known that I Jedidah Davie of Plymouth, in the County of Plymouth, widow, make this Instrument and declare it to be my last will and testament.

        I make no bequest to my son Johnson Davie or to the children of my deceased sons Thomas Davie, Solomon Davie and Samuel C. Davie

        But I give, devise and bequeath all the Estate of which I may die seized and possessed to my two daughters Betsey Davee and Sarah J. Davie and to the survivor of them her heirs and assigns forever, both real and personal

        And I do constitute and appoint my said daughters Betsey and Sarah J. Davie and the survivor of them Executor of this my will

        In testimony whereof I have hereto subscribed my name this twenty second day of March in the year one thousand eight hundred and forty two

                                                                                                                                                Jedidah  Davie

Signed, sealed, published and declared by the said Jedidah Davie as her last Will and Testament in the presence of us who in her presence and in the presence of each other and at her request have subscribed our names as witnesses

                Thomas Diman

                Benjamin Diman

                Caleb C. Bradford

 

Presented for probate on the second Monday of April, 1849, by Sarah J. Davie, one of the Executors, and proved by Thomas Diman and Benjamin Diman, two of the witnesses. Letters Testamentary granted to Sarah J. Davie, one of the Executors therein named, the other having previously deceased.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 91, p. 145-146, from FHL microfilm #0555640.

 

 

Will of John Davie of Plymouth, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1841) *

  Be it known that I John Davie of Plymouth in the County of Plymouth, Mariner, being in feeble health, but of sound mind and memory, for which I bless God, do make publish and declare this Instrument to be my last Will & Testament in manner following to Wit,

First, I give and bequeath to all my brothers & sisters, all my household furniture, beds & bedding to be equally divided among them.

Second, I give and bequeath to my brother Ebenezer Davie in consideration of the kind attention rendered me in my sickness by him and his family, all the rest residue & remainder of all the property & estate which I shall leave at my decease he paying all my just debts and the charges & expenses of settling my estate & I do appoint him the said Ebenezer Davie sole Executor of this my Will.

                                In testimony whereof I do hereto set my hand & seal this twenty fourth day of June in the year eighteen hundred & forty one

                                                                                                                                                John Davie                                         (seal)

Signed, sealed, published & declared by the said John Davie to be his last will & Testament in presence of us & we at his request, in his presence & in presence of each other have subscribed the same as Witnesses

                                                                                                                                                Silvanus Harlow

                                                                                                                                                Isaac Davie

                                                                                                                                                David Harlow

 

Presented for probate on the first Monday of Dec. 1841 by Ebenezer Davie, the Executor therein named, and proved by Isaac Davie and Davie Harlow, two of the Witnesses thereto subscribed.

 

Ebenezer David was granted administration of the estate John Davie, late of Plymouth, Mariner, on 6 Dec. 1841, with David Harlow and Isaac Davie, all of Plymouth, as sureties.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 83, p. 510-511, from FHL microfilm #0555267, and Vol. 1G, p. 385.

 

 

Will and Codicil of Ebenezer Davis of Charlton, Worcester County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1807) *

In the Name of God Amen I Ebenezer Davis of Charlton In the County of Worcester yeoman do on this Twenty-Eighth Day of november in the year of our Lord Eighteen hundred and Seven make & publish this my last Will and Testament and Dispose of my worldly Estate in manner following (Viz) to my Dear and beloved wife Hannah Davis I give devise & bequeath all the household goods and property that she brought with her Into my Estate when we were married and also three hundred Dollars to be paid her in Cash out of the First moneys that my Executors may Collect out of my Estate all which is to Bee in full for her Dower out of Said Estate as also in full for the Sum Stipulated in a Covenant that we Entered in to before our Inter marriage

2d.ly to my Son Asa Davis I give a bequeath the benefit and property of a Sum of money that he oweth me by a note of hand Dated the twenty fifth Day of this present november of the Sum of Thirty one hundred & Twenty Seven Dollars and Seventy Cents which Sum together with what I have heretofore given him is to be in full for his portion out of my Estate—

3d.ly to my Daughter Salley Burroughs I give & bequeath Two hundred Dollars to be paid her by my Said Executors in one year after my Decease which Sum together with what I have heretofore given her is to be in full for her portion out of my Estate—

To my four Grand Children Children of said Salley Burroughs I give & bequeath to the two Sons Edward & Asa Burroughs Six hundred Dollars Each to be payd  to them when they Shall arive at the age of Twentyone years  too Belinda Burroughs & Salla Burroughs three hundred Dollars to Each of them to be paid at there ariveing at the age of Eighteen  The whole of Said Sums to be paid by my Executors hereafter named and Should any of Said Grand Children Dye before Receives it legacy The Same Shall be Equally paid to the Surviveing brothers & Sisters that may then be liveing if Said Deceased Should not leave natural heirs to Inherit the Same

4dly to my Grand Daughter Sincy Melaine I give & bequeath Two thousand Dollars To be paid to her by my Said Executors hereafter named at the Day of her marrieg Shoul She Ever be married but if not they are to pay the Interest of that Sum to her from & after her ariveing at the age of Eighteen years During her natural life & at her Decease they are to pay the principal of Said Sum to all my Children that may then be liveing and the Eldest Child of Either of my Child that may have Deceased wheather it be a Sun or Daughter Shall be Intitled to Receive the Same Share that its parent would have Received if they had bin liveing which two thousand Dollars Together with what I had given her mother in her life time is to be in Full for her portion out of my Estate—

All the Rest of my Estate both Real and Personal after my Just Debts & Funeral Charges are paid I give & bequeath to my five Daughters (viz) Ruth Washburn Deborah Amidown Lidya Wheelock Permela Kies & Betsy Borden to be Equally Divided between them they accounting Each of them for what I have heretofore given towards there Potion out of my Estate and in order to prevent any Dispute that my arise among them Relating to what I have given them & ment the Same as portion I Estimate the Same to them in the following manner (viz) to Ruth Washburn Seventeen hundred & Eighty Dollars and fifty Cents. To Deborah Ammidown fifteen hundred & Eighty nine Dollors To Lydia Wheelock fourteen hundred Dollars

To Pamela [?]is Thirty Six hundred & nineteen Dollars –

To Betsy Borden Twelve hundred & fifty Dollars –

and I do hereby Constitute and appoint my two Sons in Law Calvin Ammidown & John Wheelock Joint Executo to this my Last Will and Testament whome I do hereby otherwise & Impower To Sell & make Sails of What Ever Real Estate that I may Die Siezed & possesed of for most the Same will fetch and to make & Execute a good and Sufficient Deed or Deeds of the Same that Shall be good & Valled in Law in order to Enable Them to fulfill the Conditions of this will – and I Do hereby Revoke all former Wills by me made publishing this as my Will & Testament In Witness whereof I have hereunto Set my hand and Seal the Day & year above Written

Signed Seald published and Declard by the Said

Ebenezer Davis as & for his last will & Testament

In presence of us who Subscribe our names as                                                             Ebenezer Davis                                (seal)

Witnesses in presence of the Testator

and of Each other

Daniel Harwood

Manasseh Tucker

Polly Batchelder

 

Proved on 3 Sept. 1816 by Manassah Tucker & Polly Batchelder.

 

I Ebenezer Davis of Charlton in the County of Worcester Yeoman do this Tenth day of June AD 1816 make & publish this Codicil to my last will & Testament, in manner following, that is to say, I appoint my Brother Jonathan Davis of Oxford Esquire to be joint Executor of my will, with Calvin Ammidown and John Wheelock the Executors named in my said Will, with the same Power and Effect as if he had been orginally named as joint in my said Will with the said Ammidown & Wheelock, And it is my desire that this my present codicil be annexed to and made a part of my last Will & Testament, to all Intests and purposes – In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal the day and year aforesaid

Signed sealed published and declared by

the above named Ebenezer Davis as a codicil & be

annexed to his last will in presence of us                                                                        Ebenezer Davis                                (seal)

                Charles Lamb

                Manasseh Tucker

                Samuel Lamb

 

Proved on 3 Sept. 1816 by Samuel Lamb.

 

To the Honr. Nathl. Paine Esqr. Judge of Probate of Wills &c. for the County of Worcester we do hereby signify to your Honr that we the subscribers Children and Heirs of Ebenezer Davis late of Charlton in said County Deceased have seen & heard the Instrument which purports to be the last Will & Testament of said Deceased and Shall not object to the same and are willing that the same be Proved and approved by your Honour

                                                                                                                                                                Hannah Davis

                                                                                                                                                                Asa Davis

                                                                                                                                                                Ruth Washburn

                                                                                                                                                                Lydia Wheelock

                                                                                                                                                                Calvin Ammidown

                                                                                                                                                                Debbey Ammidown

                                                                                                                                                                Saml. Kies

                                                                                                                                                                Pamela Kies

                                                                                                                                                                Ebenezer Borden

                                                                                                                                                                Betsy Borden

                                                                                                                                                                Cynthia D. McLane

 

Approved on 3 Sept. 1816. Jonathan Davis and Calvin Ammidown, the Surviving Executors were granted Administration of the Estate of Ebenezer Davis, late of Charlton.

 

Isaiah Rider and William P. Rider, Esqrs., and Aaron Hammond, Gentleman, all of Charlton, were appointed to appraise the estate of Ebenezer Davis, late of Charlton, on 20 Aug. 1816. The Inventory of his estate was dated 26 Sept. 1816, his real estate, consisting of his homestead farm with 335 acres of land and buildings on the same, was valued at $11,400, his personal estate totaled $2163.20 plus $131.07, and obligations due to the estate totaled $86,396.20, for a total of $100,090.47. The Executors, Jonathan Davis and Calvin Ammidown, gave their oath to the inventory on 6 Nov. 1816.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Worcester County Probate Case #15740, online at www.AmericanAncestors.org.

 

 

Will and Codicil of Nathaniel M. Davis of Plymouth, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1847) *

                Be it remembered that I Nathaniel M Davis of Plymouth in the County of Plymouth being of sound and disposing mind and memory do make and publish this my last will and testament

                I give to my son William Davis all my books and wearing apparel.

                I give, devise and dispose of all the rest, residue and remainder of my estate, of which I may die seized and possessed, or to which I may be entitled at the time of my decease in manner following, that is to say:

                I give, devise and bequeath one third part thereof to my son the said William Davis, to have and to hold to him his heirs and assigns forever.

                I give, devise and bequeath one third part thereof to the said William Davis and Allen Danforth of said Plymouth Esquire, or such one of them as shall accept this trust, to have and to hold the same to them, the said William Davis and Allen Danforth and their assigns and the survivor of them, his heirs, executors, administrators and assigns, but upon the trust and to the uses and purposes following, that is to say, to hold, lease and demise the real estate, and invest the personal property above devised to them, in such description of Property, real or personal, and on such security, and in such manner, and on such terms as they shall deem safe and advantageous, and after deducing all proper charges and expences, and reasonable compensation for their own services, to pay the rents incomes, dividends and profits of said trust property to my daughter Abby M. Hall semiannually in every year during her natural life to and for her sole use and benifit, upon her own seperate receipt

                And at and upon the decease of the said Abby M. Hall then in trust to pay said rents, incomes, dividends and profits to her daughter Alice B. Hall untill she arrives at the age of twenty one years, in case the said Abby M. Hall shall die previous to that time. And upon the arrival of the said Alice B. Hall at the age of twenty one years, her mother having previously died, or upon the death of her mother after the said Alice attains the age of twenty one, then in further trust to convey and transfer the said trust property to the said Alice B. Hall. And in case the said Alice B. Hall shall die before she arrives at the age of twenty one, said trust property on the decease of the said Abby M. Hall shall go to the heirs at law of me the said Nathaniel M. Davis.

                I give, devise and bequeath the remaining third part thereof to the said William Davis and Allen Danforth and their assigns, and the survivor of them his heirs, executors, administrators and assigns but upon the trust and to the uses and purposes following, that is to say, to hold, lease and demise the real estate, and invest the personal property above devised to them, in such description of property real or personal, and on such security, and in such manner, and on such terms as they shall deem safe and advantageous, and after deducting all proper charges and expences, and reasonable compensation for their own services, to pay the rents dividends incomes and profits of said trust property to my daughter Elisabeth B. Davis semiannually in every year during here natural life, to and for her sole use and benifit, upon her own seperate receipt And at and upon the decease of the said Elisabeth B. Davis there in trust to convey and transfer said trust property to such person or persons, to such uses and upon such terms and conditions as the said Elisabeth by her last will, or any writing in the nature thereof attested by three disinterested witnesses shall direct and appoint; and in default of any such will or appointment said trust property shall go to her heirs at law

                I release and discharge each and every of my children from all claims and demands I may have against them at the time of my decease

                It is my will that the trustees herein named shall each be liable only for his own receipts, payments and defaults on the premises and not for the receipts, payments and defaults of any other trustee.

                I direct that no bonds shall be required of the trustees herein appointed, or from any future Trustee, for the faithful performance of any of the trusts herein reposed in them, unless the Judge of Probate for the County of Plymouth, upon the application of some person or persons interested in the said trust property, shall adjudge it necessary that bonds shall be given.

                And if any or either of said trustees shall die, or refuse to accept, or shall relinquish said trusts, the survivor shall by a writing signed by him appoint some other suitable person to be appointed by the said Judge of Probate to be a trustee in the place of and with the same powers as the trustee so dying, refusing or declining.

                I hereby authorise and empower the said Trustees to sell and convey all or any part of the real Estate herein conveyed to them in trust, in such manner and on such terms as they may deem expedient, and apply the proceeds of such sale or sales to the purposes of their said trusts

                Lastly I hereby appoint the said William Davis to be Executor of this my last will and testament.

                In testimony whereof I the said Nathaniel M Davis have to this my last Will and testament set my hand and seal this fourth day of October in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and forty seven.

                                                                                                                                                Nathl M. Davis                                 (seal)

Signed, sealed, published and declared by the above named Nathl. M. Davis as and for his last Will and testament in our presence, who at his request, in his presence, and in presence of each other have subscribed our names as witnesses hereto.

                                                                                                                                                Jno. B. Thomas

                                                                                                                                                Wm. Thomas

                                                                                                                                                Wm. R. Sever

 

                                Whereas I Nathaniel M Davis have made and duly executed by last will and testament in writing dated October fourth AD 1847

                                Now I do hereby declare this present writing to be a codicil to my said will, and direct the same to be taken as part thereof

                                In case of the death of my daughter Elisabeth B. Davis without issue, I hereby revoke the power of disposing by will or appointment in writing of the property divised to trustees for her benefit, which is given her under said will executed by me as aforesaid, to the following extent: – viz The said Elisabeth may by a will, or by any writing in the nature of a Will attested by three disinterested witnesses, devise and dispose of one third part of said property devised to trustees for her benifit, in such manner as she may see fit, but in Case of her death without issue as aforesaid, and upon such contingency only, the remaining two thirds of said property devised to trustees for her benefit, shall descend to my heirs at law, and the said trustees or their successors are hereby directed to transfer and pay over said trust property, upon the decease of said Elisabeth without issue, in conformity to the directions herein contained. – Provided however, that the share of said property devised to trustees for the benefit of said Elisabeth, which might descend on the happening of such contengency to my daughter Abby M. Hall or in case of her decease to her daughter Alice B. Hall, shall vest in the trustees appointed under my will, or their successors, who shall manage, apply and dispose of said share in precisely the same manner as they are directed by the terms of my will to manage, apply and dispose of the other property devised to them in trust for the benefit of said Ally M. Hall

                In case of the decease of my daughter Abby M Hall before her daughter Alice B. Hall has arrived at the age of twenty one years, I direct the said trustees to pay over to said Alice during the time she is under said age, only so much of the income and profits of the property in their hands for the benefit of the said Alice as they may judge sufficient for her suitable maintenance and education, and to invest the surplus income and profits (if any) for the benefit of said Alice, to be paid her at the same time the other trust property is directed in my will to be paid and transferred to her

                I give Cynthia T. Sherman, for many years a domestic in my family, the sum of four hundred dollars.

                I do ratify and confirm my said will in every thing except where the same is hereby revoked and altered as aforesaid.

                In witness whereof I have to this Codicil set my hand and seal this twenty ninth day of April AD eighteen hundred and forty eight

                                                                                                                                                Nathl M. Davis                                 (seal)

  Signed, sealed, published and declared by the said Nathl M Davis as and for a Codicil to his last Will and testament and to be taken as part thereof in our presence, who at his request, in his presence, and in presence of each other have hereto subscribed our names as witnesses

                Jno. B. Thomas

                Wm. Thomas

                Wm. R. Sever

 

Presented for probate on the second Monday of Aug. 1848 by William Davis, the Executor therein named, and proved by John B Thomas, William Thomas and William R Sever, the witnesses. Letters Testamentary were granted to William Davis, the Executor.

 

William Davis of Plymouth, Counsellor at Law, was appointed as Executor of the last Will and Testament of Nathaniel M. Davis, late of Plymouth, Esquire, on 14 Aug. 1848, with Thomas Davis, of Boston in the County of Suffolk as surety.

John B. Thomas and Schuyler Sampson, both of Plymouth, and Charles G. Davis, of Boston were appointed to appraise the estate of Nathaniel M. Davis, late of Plymouth, on 14 Aug. 1848.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Nathaniel M. Davis, late of Plymouth, Esquire, dated 16 Sept. 1848, included real estate in Boston, as well as in Plymouth, with a total value of $47,875, and personal estate valued at $48,497.25, including shares in a number of different banks and corporations. William Davis, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on the first Tuesday of Oct. 1848.

 

John B. Thomas, Schuylar Sampson and Isaac L. Hedge, all of Plymouth, were appointed to divide the real estate of Nathaniel M. Davis, late of Plymouth, within the county of Plymouth, between the heirs William Davis and the two trusts, on 3 Oct. 1848. The division was dated 1 Nov. 1848.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 90, pp. 314-318 [Will and Codicil], 361-363 [Inventory], 396-399 [Division], from FHL microfilm #0555639, and Vol. 2H, p. 166.

 

 

Will of Nicholas Davis of Rochester, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1753) *

This Twenty fifth Day of April Anno. Domi 1753. I Nicholas Davis of Rochester in the County of Plimouth in the Province of the Massachusets Bay in New England Yeoman being under the Decaies of Body but through the Goodness Of God of a sound Disposing mind & Memory, and as concerning my Worldly Estate wherewith it hath Pleased God to Bless me in this Life I Give Devise & Dispose of the same in the following manner and form vizt.

Imps. My Will is that all my Just Debts and Funerall charges should be paid in Convenient time after my Decease Out of my Live Stock

Item.      I Give to Ruth my loving Wife the one half part of all My Indore Moveables (Exclusive of One Feather Bed with all the Winter Furniture thereto belonging) and my Silver Spoons which said spoons I Give to my said Wife; and Bed to my Daughter Elizabeth to be taken Out Before Any Division thereof be made, I Likewise Give to my said Wife a riding Beast she to take her choice; and ten Good sheep—

Item.   I Give to my Secon Nathan Davis Twenty Six pounds thirteen shillings and four pence Lawfull money to be paid to him as I Shall Order in this My Will by my Son Timothy Davis.

Item,  I Give & Bequeath to my son Timothy Davis all the southerly part of My Homstead to Extend from the Southerly end, Northerly untill it comes to asone wall Comonly called & known by the Name of keen Meadow wall and to runing Easterly & Weserly with said Wall to the most easterly & Westerly parts of my Land. Togather with One Quarter of an Acre of land Including the Buildings where the tan House now stands, Provided he nor any Other person from by or under him shall ever do any thing whereby to hender Creatures the free liberty of Drinking there All which I Give to my said Son Timothy, and to his heirs & Assigns forever, he paying to my said Son Nathan Davis the Sum of Twenty six pounds thirteen shillings and four pence Lawfull Money within two years next after my Decease, & to My Daughter Elizabeth Smith the sum of thirteen pounds six shillings & eight pence within the abovesd. Term; and provid for his sd. Mother my wife Yearly, and every Year During the time she remains my widdow at the Doore of my now Dwelling House, six Cord of Good Wood at asutable Length for her Chimney, & Keep her a riding Beast of her own finding from the time his Brother James Arrives to the Age of Twenty One years, so Long as she remains My Widdow and Keep it well winter and Summer in stable Trim for Service

Item.   I Give to my son Nicholas Davis all that part of my Homstead Beginning at the Northerly end thereof so to Extend Southerly so far the Ston Wall Commonly called and known by the Name of Edward’s Wall so ranging easterly and Westerly with said Wall untill it comes to the most Easterly and westerly parts of my Land all which I Give to my said son Nicholas Davis, and to his heirs & Assigns forever he paying to my Daughter Mary Davis the sum of Fourty pounds Lawfull Money when she Arrives to the Age of Eighteen years or time of Marrage which Shall first Happen and Provide for his Mother my wife at the Door of my Now Dwelling House at asutable Length fit for her Chimney Six Coard of Good Wood Yearly Year by Year and every Year During the time she remains my Widdow, and Pay to his said Mother Fourty Shillings pr. Year Yearly as aforesaid Lawfull Money as aforesaid From the time my son James hereafter named Comes of the age During the abovesaid Term and in Like Manner Yearly Provide Good Keeping for One Cow and five sheep winter and Summer for his said Mother During said Term.

Item,   I Give to my two sons Vizt. Nicholas & Abraham Davis all that part of my Homstead Lying between that part above Given to my said son Nicholas and my Orchard fence & so runing easterly & Westerly with said Orchard fence and so runing Easterly & Westerly with said Orchard fence untill it comes to the most easterly & Westerly part of my Land To be Equall Divided Between them in Quantity & Quality to them their heirs and Assigns forever.

Item,       I Give & Bequeath to my son James Davis and to his heirs and Assigns forever all the remaining part of my Homstead with all the Buildings standing thereon, which shall not in this my Will be Otherwise Disposed of but not by him to be Possessed nor to have the Proffit of untill he Arrives to the Age of twenty One Years Except my said wife Shall Decease or Marry before that time All which I Give to my said Son James as above Expresed he Providing for his Mother my wife, Good Keeping Winter and Summer for One Cow and five sheep Yearly Year by Year and every Year, and in like manner Pay to her fourty shillings pr. Year Lawfull Money from the time that she shall Arrive to the Age of twenty One years During the time that she remains my Widdow.

Item.      I Give to my Daughter Elizabeth Smith one feather Bed with all the Winter furniture thereto belonging she to take her choice

Item,      I Give to my daughter Mary Davis all the remaining part of my Indore Moveables which I shall not in this my Will Otherwise Dispose of

Item.      I Give to my Abovesd. Son Nicholas Davis All my farming Implements of what sort soever they may be, togather with all my Live Stock which shall be remaining after Just Debts Funerall charges and Just Expences Of all sorts togather with what is particulerly Given away in this my Will is first taken Out of the same.

Item,      I Give and Bequeath unto my abovesaid Wife the use & Improvment of my Great room Togather with the use & Improvmt. Of two cows during the time she remains my Widdow, I Give to My said wife the use and Improvment of all that part of my Homstead Above in this my sd. Will Given to my sd. Son James to be used by her untill my said son James Comes to the Age of twenty one Years Provided she Survives to that time or remains my Widdow, & does Not make strip and wast of the Wood nor unreasonably ware the Land to hurt it

Item,  I Give to my three Sons vizt. Timothy, Nicholas, & Abraham Davis all my Wearing Apparrell

Item  My Will is That my said Wife shall find Cloathing for my abovesaid Son Abraham During the time of his Apprintiship

Item.  My Will is That all my abovesaid Sons togather with my said Wife should hav the Previledge Of passing and repassing by Gates of Barrs thro’ each Others Land where it may be Convenient and Least Prejudicall to each Other.

I Hereby Constitute, Make and Ordain My Son Timothy Davis Sole Execr. Of this My Last Will and Testament, Hereby Making Void all other Wills by me Before this Time Made ratifying this and No Other to be my Last Will and Testament. In Witness whereof I the said Nicholas Davis have hereunto Sett my hand and Seal the day and Year first above Written

Signed, Sealed, Published, Pronounced &

   Declared by the said Nicholas Davis                                                                            Nicholas Davis                 (seal)

as his last Will and Testament

    In presence of us

Abraham Devell

William Sears

Stephen West

 

Presented for probate on 1 Decr. 1755 by the Execr. therein named, and proved by William Sears, one of the witnesses, and Abraham Devel being one of the People called Quakers Did Solemly Affirm and Declar that he saw the Said Nicholas Davis since Deceased Sign Seall & Deliver & heard him Declare this Instrument to be his Last Will and Testament. Letters of Administration were granted to Timothy Davis of sd. Rochester Yeoman Sole Execr. on the First Day of December Anno Domi. 1755.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Nicholas Davis, late of Rochester, was appraised on 24 Nov. 1755 by Roger Braley, Samuel Wing, and John Shirman, but not totaled, his real estate being abt. 100 acres with the buildings valued at £666. Timothy Davis, the Executor, made Solem Affirmation (being one of the people called Quakers) to the inventory on 1 Dec. 1755.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 14, pp. 17-19, 15-16, from FHL microfilm #0551542.

 

 

Will of Nicholas Davis Jr., of Kingston, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1798) *

In the name of God Amen – I Nicholas Davis junr of Kingston in the county of Plymouth, being weak in body, but of sound mind and memory, and being desirous to set my house in order, before I die, do make & publish this my last will & testament, in manner & form following, that is to say ~

                My will is, that after all my just debts are well & truly paid I Give & bequeath unto my beloved wife Martha Davis, all my Estate, both real & personal, wherever it may be found

                And I do hereby constitute & appoint Silas Morton to be my Executor for this my last will & testament, hereby revoking all former wills by me made. In Witness whereof I have hereunto Set my hand and seal, the twenty sixth day of November, in the year of our Lord 1798.

Signed, Sealed in pre-                                                                                                         Nicholas Davis junr        —            seal

sence of

                Elisha Washburn

                Elisha Stetson junr

                John Cook

 

Presented for probate on 4 Feb. 1799 by Silas Morton, the Executor therein named, and proved by Elisha Washburn and John Cook, two of the witnesses.

 

Saml. Stetson, John Faunce, & Bildad Washburne, all of Kingston, yeomen, were appointed to appraise the estate of Nicholas Davis junr., late of Kingston, yeoman, on 4 Feb. 1799.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Nicholas Davis junr., late of Kingston, yeoman, dated 1 July 1799, totaled $1710.65, including 16 acres of wood land being a part of what is called Continental lot valued at $112.00, 28 acres of Pasture & wood land at 3 brook valued at $504.00, 4½ acres of wood land valued at $31.50, a dwelling house, shoe makers shop & outhouses with the lot adjoining valued at $660.00, a barn valued at $25.00, and a Pew in the meeting house valued at $80.00. Silas Morton, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 31 Mar. 1800.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 36, p. 497, and Vol. 37, p. 215-216, all from FHL microfilm #0550719.

 

 

Will and Codicil of William Davis, Esq., of Plymouth, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1852) *

                                Be it remembered that I William Davis of Plymouth in the County of Plymouth, of sound and disposing mind and memory, do make and publish this my last will and testament.

                                                I give to my grandfather Nahum Mitchell, if he survives me, the property and rights of property devised to me by the will of my mother Harriet Davis.

                I give to my grandmother Nabby Mitchell, if she survives me, the sum of one thousand dollars, to be paid her by my Executors as soon as may be after my deceased.

                I give, devise and bequeath to my wife Helen Davis my dwelling house on Court Street in Plymouth, where I now reside, with the land appurtenant, including the garden and orchard, to have and to hold the same, with all the privileges and appurtenances to said premises belonging, to her the said Helen, her heirs and assigns forever.

                I also give to my said wife all the furniture, books, pictures and other articles of personal property in said dwelling house, together with my watch and wearing apparel.

                I give to John J. Russell of Plymouth, Counsellor at law, my law books and the furniture in my law office.

                I give devise and dispose of all the rest, residue and remainder of my estate of what I may die seized and possessed, or to which I may be entitled at the time of my decease in manner following, that is to say,

                I give, devise and bequeath the whole of said residue and remainder of my estate unto Allen Danforth Esqr. of Plymouth, and my cousin William T. Davis of Boston, or such one of them as shall accept this trust, to have and to hold the same to them the said Allen Danforth and William T. Davis and their assigns, and the survivor of them his heirs executors, administrators and assigns, but upon the trusts and to the uses and purposed following, that is to say, to hold, lease and devise the real estate, and invest the personal property above devised to them, in such description of property real or personal, and on such security and in such manner, and on such terms as they shall deem safe and advantageous, and after deducting all proper charges and expenses, and a reasonable compensation for their own services, to pay the rents, income, dividends and profits of said trust property as follows, viz. two thirds thereof to my said wife Helen Davis semiannually in every year during her natural life, to and for her sole use and benefit,-and upon her own separate receipt. And to pay the remaining third thereof to my child or children I may leave at my decease, and to any posthumous child, if it should so happen, who may be born after my decease, semi-annually in every year during the natural life of such child or children, to and for the sole use and benefit of such child or children, and upon his her or their separate receipt. Said third part to be equally to said children, if there are more than one.

                Provided however, and I hereby direct said trustees, during the minority of such child or children, to apply and appropriate so much of said one third part of the rents income, dividends and profits of said trust property, as said trustees may in their discretion judge proper and expedient to and for the suitable support, maintenance and education of such child or children, until such child or children attains or attain respectively to the age of Twenty one years, each child on reaching that age to be paid an equal share of said third part as above directed, and to invest the surplus of said one third part (if any) as said trustees may see fit, and to pay over the same, when the youngest of said children attains the age of twenty one years, equally to any children of mine who may be living at that time, or if there is but one child, the whole of said surplus shall be paid such child on reaching the age of twenty one years. And if no one of my children attains that age, then said surplus (if any) on the decease of my child or children, shall be paid to my said wife, or in case of her decease to her heirs at law.

                And at and upon the decease of my said wife, then in further trust to pay said two thirds of the rents, income, dividends and profits of said trust property to any child or children of mine who may be living at her decease, semi-annually in every year during the natural life of such child or children, to and for the sole use and benefit of such child or children, and upon his, her or their separate receipt, or upon the receipt of the guardian or other legal representative of such child or children.

                And in case of the decease of such child or children before my wife’s decease, then in further trust to pay the whole of said rents, income, dividends and profits to my said wife, in the same manner and on the same terms as said two thirds of the same as herein directed to be paid her.

                And at and upon the decease of such child or children, my said wife also having previously died, then in further trust to convey and pay over the whole of said trust property in such manner and to such person or persons as such child or children by any last will, or any instrument in the nature thereof attested by three disinterested witnesses shall direct and appoint; each child, if there are more than one, to have the power of disposing of an equal part of said trust property; and in default of any such will or appointment, said trust property shall go to the heirs at law of such child or children.

                And at and upon the decease of my said wife, my child or children having previously died, then in further trust to convey and pay over the whole of said trust property in such manner and to such person or persons as my said wife by her last will, or any instrument in the nature thereof attested by three disinterested witnesses, shall direct and appoint, and in default of any such will or appointment, said trust property shall go to the heirs at law of my said wife.

                It is my will that the trustees herein named, and their successors, shall each be liable only for his own receipts, payments, and defaults in the premises, and not for the receipts, payment and defaults of any other trustee.

                I direct that no bond shall be required of the Trustees herein appointed, or from any Future Trustee, for the faithful performance of any of the trusts herein reposed in them, unless the Judge of Probate of the County of Plymouth, upon the application of some person or persons interested in the said trust property, shall adjudge it necessary that bonds shall be given.

                And if any or either of said trustees shall die, or refuse to accept, or shall relinquish said trusts, the survivor or remaining trustee shall by a writing signed by him appoint some other suitable person, to be approved by the said Judge of Probate, to be a trustee in the place of, and with the same powers, as the trustee so dying, refusing or declining.

                I hereby authorize and empower the said Trustees and their successors to sell and convey all or any part of the real estate herein conveyed to them in trust, in such manner and on such terms as they may deem expedient, and to apply the proceeds of such sale or sales to the purposes of their said trusts.

                I hereby appoint the said Allen Danforth and William T. Davis to be Executors of this my last will.

                In testimony whereof I the said William Davis have to this my last will and testament set my hand and seal this sixteenth day of March A.D. eighteen hundred and fifty two.

                                                                                                                                                Wm Davis                                            (seal)

        Signed, sealed published and declared by the above named William Davis as and for his last will and testament in our presence, who at his request, in his presence and in presence of each other have subscribed our names as witnesses hereto; the “to and,” “each child on reaching that age to be paid an equal share of said third part as above directed,” and “or remaining trustee,” having been first interlined.

                J. H. Loud

                Wm S. Russell

                Charles May

 

                Be it remembered that I, William Davis of Plymouth, do hereby make and ordain the following as and for a codicil of my last will and testament.

                In order to make my intention clear in my said will, I declare that in case of death without children, that the whole of the rents, income and profits devised to trustees for the benefit of any child or children, shall be paid to my wife, upon her separate receipt, free from the interference or control of any husband, and she shall have the power of disposing of the said trust estate by will in the same manner as declared in said will in relation to the two thirds therein named and devised for her benefit.

                I give and bequeath three thousand dollars to be deposited by my executors in the Massachusetts Hospital Life Insurance Company, the income thereof to be paid semi-annually to my Aunt Elizabeth C. Hyde, wife of Nathan D. Hyde, on her separate receipt, to her separate use, during her natural life, and after her decease said sum of three thousand dollars shall without the intervention of a trustee, be paid over to my uncle James H. Mitchell, or in case of his decease, to any child or children of said James then living.

                I give to Leonard Snow of Plymouth the sum of Three Hundred dollars;

                I give to Betsey Dunham of Plymouth one hundred dollars.

                All the legacies in said will and codicil are to be paid and deducted before the trust estate is created.

                I do hereby declare & publish the above as a codicil to my former will, and do republish the same.  Witness my hand and seal the seventeenth day of February A. D. 1853.

                                                                                                                                                Wm Davis                                            (seal)

   Signed, sealed, published and declared by said William Davis as and for a codicil to his last will and testament, in our presence, who in his presence, at his request and in the presence of each other have hereunto set our names as witnesses. The words “the same being the second codicil by me made” and “and a codicil thereto, being first interlined and erased.

                Chas. G. Davis

                Terence Wakefield Jr.

                Thomas E. Dunning

 

Presented for probate on the second Monday of April 1853 by Allen Danforth and William T. Davis, the Executors therein named, the will proved by William S. Russell and Charles May, and the codicil proved by Charles G. Davis, witnesses whose names are subscribed thereto. Letters Testamentary were granted to Allen Danforth and William T. Davis, the Executors therein named.

 

Allen Danforth of Plymouth and William T. Davis of Boston were appointed as Executors of the last Will and Testament of William Davis, late of Plymouth Esquire, on 11 Apr. 1853, with Jacob H. Loud and Charles G. Davis, both of Plymouth as sureties. Thomas Russell, Nathaniel Russell, and John J. Russell, all of Plymouth, were appointed to appraise the estate of William Davis, late of Plymouth, on 11 Apr. 1853.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of William Davis, late of Plymouth, Esquire, totaled $38,986, including his real estate valued at $10,600. Allen Danforth and William T. Davis, the Executors on the Estate of William Davis, late of Plymouth, gave their oath to the inventory on 28 June 1853.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 95, pp. 158-162, 309-310, from FHL microfilm #0555642, and Vol. 2H, p. 358.

 

 

Will of John Whitcomb Dean of Stafford, Tolland County, Connecticut (1877) *

Stafford Dec. 13th 1877. In the name of God, Amen. I John Whitcomb Dean, of Stafford, Tolland County State of Connecticut Do make & constitute this, my Last Will and Testament as in the following is written

   I, John Whitcomb Dean, being of sound mind and memory Do give and bequeath to my beloved wife Mary Dean all my estate both real & personal, to be hers without reserve forever. Furthermore also I, John Whitcomb Dean constitute Mary Dean my wife, Executrix of this my Last Will & Testament

                                                                                                                                                John W. Dean

Signed in presence of

                Orwell Dimmick

                Abraham Francis

                Truman Watrous

 

Presented for probate on 21 Jan. 1878 by Mary Dean, named Executrix therein, and probated by Abraham Francis and Orwell Dimmick, two of the witnesses. Mary Dean, named Executrix in the last Will & Testament of John W. Dean, late of Stafford, deceased, having resigned said trust, Administration with the Will annexed on said Estate was granted to Orwell Dimmick of Stafford. Zenas D. Washburn and Luman Orcutt, both of Stafford, were appointed to appraise the Estate of John W. Dean, late of Stafford, at the same time.

The Inventory of the Estate of John W. Dean, late of Stafford, dated 26 Jan. 1878, and presented on 8 Mar. 1878, totaled $1084.85, including his buildings and about 70 acres of land valued at $850.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Town of Stafford Register of Probate Records Vol. 20, p. 79-82, from FHL microfilm #1320435.

 

 

Will of Thomas Dean of Raynham, County of Bristol, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1744) *

In the name of God Amen I Thomas Dean of Raynham in the County of Bristol in his majesties Province of the Massachusetts Bay in New England Gentelman Being of Sound Memory & Disposing Mind Blessed be God therefor; and now being advanced in years, and Knowing that it is appointed for Man once to die & not Knowing the time of my Death: think it is my duty to set my house in order before I am Gathered to my fathers; Do make & Constitute this to be my Last Will & testament (Renounceing & making void any Will by me here to fore) My Soul, I Committee to God in Christ; My Body to the Earth to be decently Buried in hopes of a Joyfull Resurection at my Lord Redeamers Second Coming: The Worldly Estate God has Graciously Given me I dispose of as followeth Viz

Item I Give my beloved Wife Mary the Southerly half part of my Dwelling house & one third part of the Improvement of my home Lands on both sides of the highway in Raynham affore said dureing her Natural Life; I also Give here the one third part of my personal & movable Estate with in dore & with out for Ever

2:  I Give to my Son Josiah Dean of said Raynham my Gun sword & Artillery I also Ratifie & Confirm to him his heirs & assigns my home steed Lands on Both Sides of the highway with Buildings there on standing with all other the Land’s & primises as in the Deed of Gift to him Even with the Date here of may appear he & his heirs & assigns to have & hold the same in fee Simple for Ever more I also Give my said son Josiah two third parts of all In dore & out dore Goods movables & personal Estate with husbandry Tools To have & hold the same

3  I Give unto my son Elijah Dean of said Raynham fifty acres and three Quarters of an acre of Land in said Raynham Taunton proprietors measure at aplace Called Neck plain & is part of the hundred & thirteen acres of Land the one half of which I this day Gave my son Josiah a deed of Gift of: & is to be bound westerly to Josiah half part southerly by the heirs of Capt John King Late deceased & so to Extend Easterly to ye Extent of ye surveys in My Lands as Bounded in the Returns of the Same; is bounded Northerly partly by a highway & partly by Land Late Isaac Deans deceased: always saveing to my son Seth a Conveniant Bredth on said highway for six acres of Land in sd Whole tract that I shall Give him in this Will: I also Ratifie & Confirm to him said Elijah Dean all those Lands as bounded & Discribed in my Deed of Gift to him Dated with these presents & all the primises there in conveyed all which Lands above said I Give said Elijah his heirs & assigns for Ever To have & to hold I also Give him all the Debt he sd Elijah owes me at this Day; & said Elijah is to Discharge me & my heirs & Executor of all Demands he has against me on all accounts to this Day –

4:  I Give to my son Seth Dean of said Raynham Six acres of Land in sd Town; Taunton proprietors measure to be bounded partly by a highway Leading from Benjamin Halls Dwelling house to Richard Williames on the north: & is to be bounded on the West on Josiah half part of said tract & to Extend East & South untill the six acres is Included : I also Give him Said Seth Dean all my Ceder Swamp in Bridgewater in ye County of Plymouth; as also one Quarter of one purchase Right in the old Town ship of Taunton; I also Ratifie & Confirm to him said Seth all & Singular the Land & primises Where his Dwelling house Standeth as I have Given him in & by a Deed of Gift – Even with the Date here of; he said Seth Dean to have & hold all the affore said Lands to him his heirs and Assigns for Ever; I also Give him sd Seth all Debt Due to me from him; & he is to Discharge all Demand he has against me to this Day –

5  I Give my Daughter Mary the Wife of James Leonard of Taunton the 28 acres of Land in Taunton in yt part Called Middelborough precint near the Dwelling house of Jacob Staple as the Same was bounded & Laid out May 22d 1718 by Thomas Gilbert & Thomas Harvey & John White She said Mary To have & hold the same her heirs & assigns for Ever

6:  I Give to my Daughter Marcy King Wife of Robert King over & above What She has heretofore of me Received ten pounds to be paid her with in twelve mounth after my Decease by my son Seth Dean in publick bills of Credit of the old tenor accounting Silver at thirty shillings per ounce or other money Equal there to –

7:  I Give My Daughter Rebecah Wife of David King of Dighton ten pounds to be paid her with in twelve Mounths by my Son Seth Dean in publick bills of Credit of ye old tenor accounting Silver at ye Rate of thirty Shillings per ounce or other Money Equivelant thereto I also Ratifie & Confirm to her what she has hereto fore of me Receivd –

8  I Give to my Daughter Kezia Wife of Edmond Andrews of Norton one Cow & Calf that the said Edmond has all Ready Rcievd; with what said Daughter has here to fore had of my Estate; I also Give her twenty Shillings in publick bills of Credit of ye old tenor accounting Silver at 30 shillings per ounce to be paid her by my Executor here after Named: –

And all other of my Estate Rael & personal not in this Will Disposed of I Give to my said son Josiah Dean or yt may not be Disposed of at time of my Decease I also Give him – I Constitute & appoint my said son Josiah Dean to be Sole Executor of this my Last Will & testament; & that he pay all my Just Debts & Receive All my Credits (& Give me a Cristian Burial) –

In testimoney Where of I the said Thomas Dean have here unto Set My hand & Seal this twelfth Day of July in the 18th year of the Reign of our Sovereign Lord George the Second A:D: 1744

Signed Sealed Delivered published &             }

Declared to be the Last Will & testament      }

of Thomas Dean In presents of us                    }                                                              Thomas Dean                                    (seal)

                Joseph Hall

                Jonathan Shaw

                James Williams

 

Proved by James Williams and Jonathan Shaw, two of the witnesses on 6 Oct. 1747.

 

James Williams, Esqr., Mr. Jonathan Shaw and Mr. Jonathan Dean, freeholders in the County of Bristol, were appointed to appraise the Personal Estate of Mr Thomas Dean, late of Raynham, on 31 Dec. 1747. The Inventory of the Goods & Chattles Personal of Mr. Thomas Dean, late of Raynham, was dated 31 Dec. 1747, and totaled £615.13.0. Josiah Dean, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 7 Feb. 1748/9.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Bristol County Probate File “Thomas Dean, Raynham, 1748,” from FHL microfilm #0572870.

 

 

Will of David Delano of Middleborough, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1750) *

In the Name of God, Amen I David Delano of Middleboro. in the County of Plimouth Husbandman, being Aged, but of perfect & Disposing mind & memory thanks be to God, Calling to mind the Mortality of my body, and Knowing That it is Appointed Unto all Men Once to dye I do Ordain this my last Will and Testament ~

Imprimis I Give and Bequeath my Soul into the Hands of God that Gave it Hoping for Eternal Salvation Onely in and Thro’ the Merrits of Jesus Christ, my Dear Saveour and my Body I recommend to the Earth to be Decently Buried at the Discretion of my Execr. hereafter Named, and as Touching that Worldly Estate with which it hath pleased God to Bless me I Give & Bequeath the same in Manner following

Item, I Give and Bequeath unto my Beloved wife Betty Delano after all my Just Debts and Funeral Charges is paid, the improvemt. of all my Estate both real and & personal During her Naturall Life & all my personall Estate forever to dispose of as shee sees Good

Item I Give and Bequeath unto my son David Delano whome I do Appoint Executor of this my Last Will and Testament after the decease of my abovesaid Wife all my Estate That then remains After my wife abovesaid Having a Decent Burial he paying as above & hereafter expressed

Item, I Give and Bequeath unto my Grandson Lemuel Delano Twenty pounds in the Old Tenner as it now passeth to be paid unto him by my abovesaid Son my Execr. within one year after the decease of my abovesaid Wife, & In Testimony Whereof I the said Delano the Testator have hereunto Set my hand & Seal this Thirtieth Day of July Anno Domi, 1750,

Signed Sealed & Delivered, Published,                                                                          David Delano                                   (seal)

Pronounced, and Declared by the abovesd.

David Delano the Testator to be his

last Will and Testament In the presence

of us the Subscribers

Ezra Clap

Elijah Clap

Manasah Clap

 

Presented for probate on 1 Aug. 1755 by the Executor therein named, and proved by Elijah Clap and Manasah Clap, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to David Delano of Middleborough, the Executor, on 1 Aug. 1755.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of David Delano, late of Middleborough, was appraised on 2 July 1755 by David Sears, Elijah Clap, and Manasa Clap, not totaled, but his real estate valued at £53.18.4, and his personal estate £12.16.4. The Executor gave his oath to the inventory on 1 Aug. 1755.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 13, p. 541-542, from FHL microfilm #0551540.

 

 

Will of Ichabod Delano of Duxbury, Plymouth County, Massachusetts Bay (1786) *

The Last will & testament of Ichabod Delano of Duxborough in the County of Plymouth in the Province of the Massachusetts Bay in New England, yeoman

        I the Said Ichabod Delano being under many bodily infirmities, yet of perfect mind & memory, for which I bless God; and Calling to mind the mortality of my body, do upon Serious Consideration make & ordain these presents to be my Last will & testament, to Remain firm inviolable forever, that is to say, first of all, I Recommend my Soul to God, who Gave it & my body I Recommend to the Earth to be buried in a Christian manner at the discretion of my Executor hereafter named, nothing doubting but at the General Resurrection I Shall Recieve it again, and as touching such worldly Estate as God hath pleased to bless me with in this Life, I Give & devise & dispose of the same in the following manner and form ~

Imprimis – I Give to my two Oldest Sons Ichabod Delano & Charles Delano all the Salt meadow that I die Seized of that was their mothers to be equally divided between them ~

Item – I Give to my true and Loving wife the whole improvement of my Real and Personal Estate that I die Seized of Excepting what I have Given to my two Sons above named for the term of Seven years from the date of this my Last will and testament

Item – I Give to my two Sons Ichabod Delano & Charles Delano abovesaid the Remainder of my Salt meadow Laying on what is Called Common Island, to be equally divided between them after the Expiration of the Seven years, above mentioned ~

Item – I Give to my two Sons Ichabod Delano & Charles Delano the improvement of two thirds of the Remainder of my Real Estate not yet disposed of, after the Expiration of the Seven years above mentioned, to keep the Estate in Repair ‘till my Other three Sons are of age to act for themselves whose names are as follows, that is to say Elisha Delano – Seth Delano & Elijah Delano – and now my will is that after my Debts and funeral Charges are paid, that the Remainder of my Estate not yet disposed of, be equally divided between my five Sons, that is to say, Ichabod Delano, Charles Delano Elisha Delano, Seth Delano & Elijah Delano. Excepting the moveable Estate of my first wife’s which I Give to my two Eldest Sons above mentioned ~

Lastly – my will is that my oldest Son Ichabod Delano be the Sole Executor of this my Last will and testament thus hoping that this my Last will & testament be kept performed according to the true intent and meaning thereof

In witness whereof I the aforesaid Ichabod Delano have hereunto Set my hand and Seal this Fifteenth day of February Anno Domini one thousand seven hundred & Eighty Six – 1786 ~

Signed Sealed & declared by the above named

Ichabod Delano to be his Last will & testa-                                                                   Ichabod Delano                                (seal)

ment in presence of us ~

        Nathaniel Samson

        Aaron Samson

        Reuben Delano

 

Presented for probate on 11 Sept. 1786 by Ichabod Delano, the Executor therein named, and proved by Aaron Samson and Reuben Delano, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted unto Ichabod Delano, the before named Executor.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Ichabod Delano, late of Duxbury, was appraised on 29 Sept. 1786 by Calvin Partridge, Reuben Delano and Gideon Harlow, and totaled £206.8.11, including his homestead farm and buildings valued at £160, and a piece of salt marsh valued at £10. Ichabod Delano, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 2 Oct. 1786.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 30, p. 82-83, from FHL microfilm #0550716.

 

 

Will of Jonathan Delano of Rochester, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1744) *

In the Name of God amen this Seventh day of March Anno Domini One thousand seven hundred & fourty four I Jonathan Delano of Rochester in the County of Plimouth in the province of the Massachusets bay in New England Yeoman Do make and ordain this my last will and Testament—

Principally and Fist of all I Give my Soul to god & my body to the Earth to be buried at the discretion of my Executors, and as touching my worldly Estate as it hath pleased God to bless me with I Give and dispose of the same in the following manner and form First I do appoint Samuel Winslow my Father in law and Elisha Barrows Inholder both of Rochester aforesd to be Execrs. of this my will and Order them out of my moveable Estate they pay all my Just debts & funeral Charges—

Item I Give to my Dearly beloved wife Rachel the One Third part of my Estate as the Law directs for widdows to have where there is no will

Item I Give my Son Jonathan all my real Estate Consisting of Housing and lands which I have & doe own in Rochester be the same more or less & the same to be & remain to him his heirs & Assigns forever he paying out to his Sister Hannah what I am Obliged by bond to pay her & allso One shilling old tenour to my Daughter Eliza besides what she hath allready had and after my Son Jonathan shall come of lawfull Age then he to be Sole Executor of this my will.

Item, My Will is that what of my moveable Estate Shall be left after my Debts are paid and my wife hath her part thereof as the law directs Shall be divided Equally between all my Children which I had by my second wife, viz Amasa Samuel & Irana Excepting what I had by my last wife and that I Give what of it Shall remain after my Debts are paid unto my Daughters Joanna & Martha, lastly I do hereby revoke all former wills and ratyfie this as my last will & Testament, In Witness whereof I have hereunto Set my hand & Seal the day & Year first above written—

Signed Sealed published

Pronounced & Declared by me the

said Jonathan Dellano as my                                                                                             Jonathan Delano                             (seal)

last will & Testament In

Presence of

Ebenezer Spooner

Sarah Robinson

Timothy Ruggles

 

Presented for probate by the Executors 20 May 1745, and proved by Mr. Timothy Ruggles & Ebenezer Spooner. Letters of Administration were granted to Samuel Winslow and Elisha Barrow, both of Rochester, the Executors, on 20 May 1745.

 

The Inventory of the Estate both Real & Personal of Jonathan Delano late of Rochester, was appraised by Noah Sprague, Cornelius Brigs and Mark Haskell junr. on 24 Apr. 1745, and totaled £434.2.4, including his homestead with the buildings valued at £200. Saml Winslow and Elisha Barrow, the Executors, gave their oath to the inventory on 21 May 1745.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 9, p. 456-458, and Vol. 10, p. 171-172.

 

 

Will of Jonathan Delano of Duxbury, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1763) *

In the Name of God amen, upon the Second day of December in the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and sixty three, I Jonathan Delano of Duxborough in the County of Plimouth in the province of the Massachusets bay in NewEngland yeoman, upon good & serious Considerations, and under some Infirmitys of body, and under the Decays of Old age, but being of perfect mind & Memory Thanks be given unto God for the same, and therefore Calling unto mind the Mortallity of my body, and knowing that it is appointed for all men once to die Do make & ordain this to be my last will and Testament, That is to say Principally and first of all, I Give and Recommend my Soul into the Hands of God that Gave it, and my body I recomend to the Earth to be buried in a Decent & Christian manner at the Discretion of my Executor here afternamed, nothing Doubting but at the great & General Resurrection, I shall receive the same again by the Almighty power of God, and as touching such worldly Goods and Temporal Estate wherewith it hath pleased God to bless me in this life with, I Give Demise and dispose of the same in the manner & form following.

Imps. My will is that all my Just debts & funeral Charges be Defreyed and payd out of my Personal Estate.

Item. I Do give and bequeath unto my Dearly & Wellbeloved wife Hannah Delano all and the whole of my Real & personal Estate dureing the whole term or time of her widdowhood, or while she remains my widdow.

Item. I Do give and bequeath unto my Eldest son John Delano all my Single share in the salt meadow that I have lying on Skirt Island, together with all the moveable Estate that he has allready Received.

Item. I do Give and Bequeath unto the Children of my Second son Jonathan Delano deceased all that their Father the sd. Jonathan Delano deceasd received of me in his life time, Equally between them, Besides five Shillings worth of Moveable Goods, I Do Give to my Grandson Samuel Delanoe the son of my said son Jonathan Delano deceasd.

Item. I do Give and bequeath unto my third son Nathan Delano my best Bed One Coverlid One Bolster & two black Chairs.

Item. I Doe Give and bequeath unto my fourth son Amasa Delano my next Bed that is the best One Bolster One Coverlid.

Item I do Give and Bequeath unto my fifth son Ebenezer Delano the sum of One Shilling lawfull money.

Item. I do Give and bequeath unto my two Grandsons the sons of my yonguest son David Delano deceasd, all the residue of my Homestead farm it being the One third part of said farm with the Salt meadow adjoining to it Commonly called Littel meadow, and it being all that part of my said farm that I have not Given my aforesaid son Ebenezer Delano a Deed of, That is to say to my Grand son, Jonathan Delano two Thirds of my residue of of said Homestead with all of my said Little meadow with one half of my Dwelling house with Two thirds of the Fenceing and Orchard thereon, and Likewise Two thirds of what I now do own in my wood lott and one Chest that was my fathers.

Item. I Give and bequeath unto my Grandson Oliver Delano One Third part of my Homested farm that is to say of the residue of it with the fenceing and Orchard thereon with all my right in the Tussock Meadow that I have not otherwise disposed of, and one third part of what is not otherwise disposed of in my Wood lott. And the said Jonathan Delano and Oliver Delano being both the sons of my son David Delano deceased.  And my will is that my said Grandson Jonathan Delano Shall pay to his sister Zilpha Delano the sum of five Shillings.

Item. I do Give and bequeath to my daughter Ruth Peterson, what She hath already received.

Item. I do Give and Bequeath to my daughter Hannah Soule the sum of five Shillings with what she has allready received.

Item. I do Give and bequeath unto my two Grand Children Silvanus Curtis and Hannah Curtis the sum of One Shilling to each of them together with what their mother Dorothy Curtis in her life time received ~  And my Will is that all these above said Legacies that are given as abovesaid are given to them, and to their heirs and assigns forever.

And I do hereby Constitute and appoint my Trusty and well beloved son John Delano to be Sole Executor of this my last will and Testament, and I do hereby utterly disallow and revoke and disanul all & every other and former wills Testaments & bequests by me in any Before named willed or Bequested made Ratyfieing and Confirming this & no other to be my last will and Testament, In Witness whereof I the said Jonathan Delano have hereunto set my hand and Seal the day & year above written—

Signed Sealed published pronounced & Declared

by the said Jonathan Delano to be his

last will and Testament in the presence

of us the Subscribers.                                                                                                          Jonathan Delano                             (seal)

Abner Weston

Joshua Stanford

John Wadsworth

 

Presented for probate on 4 Feb. A.D. 1765 by John Delano, the Executor therein named, and proved by Joshua Stanford and John Wadsworth, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to John Delano, the Executor.

 

The Inventory of the estate of Jonathan Delano, late of Duxboro’, Yeoman, was appraised on 29 Mar. 1765 by Abner Weston, John Wadsworth, and Joshua Stanford, all of Duxboro’, but not totaled, his homestead farm & fence was valued at only £20, half the house was valued at £5.6.8, his meadow at the skirt was valued at £8.13.4, his little meadow at £6.13.4, his part of the wood lot at £4.13.4, and his right in the Tussok meadow at £2.17.9. The appraisers gave their oath to the inventory on 30 Mar. 1765, and John Delano, the administrator, gave his oath to the inventory on 1 Apr. 1765.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 19, pp. 164-166, 195, from FHL microfilm #0550711.

 

 

Will of Joseph Delano of Duxbury, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1770) *

The last will and testament of Joseph Delano of Duxborough in the county of Plymouth in the province of Massachusetts-Bay in New England yeoman. – I the said Joseph Delano being under many bodily infirmities yet of perfect mind & memory thanks be given to Almighty God therefor. calling to mind the mortality of my body, do upon serious consideration make & ordain these presents to be my last will & testament to remain firm & inviolable forever. that is to say, first of all, I give & recomend my soul into the hand of God that gave it and my body I recomend to the earth to be buried in a decent christian manner at the discretion of my executor herein after named, nothing doubting but at the general resurrection I shall receive the same again by the Almighty power of God; and as touching such worldly estate wherewith it hath pleased God to bless me with in this life, I give & devise & dispose of the same in the following manner & form. –

Imprimis, I give and bequeath unto my son Reuben Delano all my real estate, that is to say, my home-farm, wood-lott & meadow, with all the buildings & fences thereon his paying my debts & funeral charges. ~

Item, I give to Lidia Delano the wife of my son Benjamin Delano, my best table.

I give to my daughter Rebeccah Fullerton wife of John Fullerton, a chest.

I give to my daughter Zebiah Delano my loom & the tackling belonging to it, also my best bed & best chest. –

I give to my daughter Lucy Delano my best iron pott, & warming pan, & a chest.

I give to my son Reuben first mentioned, my gun & sword & a bed, & my hatt.

I give to my son Benjamin Delano’s five children, which are my grandchildren, six shillings a piece to be paid by my son Reuben Delano. –

I give to my two grandsons Elijah & Reuben Delano sons of Reuben Delano, my wearing cloaths.

I give to my three daughters viz. Rebeccah Fullerton, & Zebiah & Lucy Delano all my movable estate not yet disposed off equally between them. –

Lastly My will is that my son Reuben Delano be the sole executor of this my Last will & testament, thus hoping that this my Last will & testament be kept & performed according to the true intent & meaning thereof. – In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand & seal this twenty third day of April anno Domini one thousand seven hundred & seventy. 1770.

Signd. seald. & declard. by the beforenamd. Joseph

Delano to be his last will & testament in the

presence of us.                     Joshua Peterson                                                                   Joseph  X  Delano               (seal)

                                                Jacob Dingley junr.

                                                Judah Delano

 

Presented for probate on 6 Aug. 1770 by Reuben Delano the Executor therein named, and proved by Judah Delano, Jacob Dingley junr. and Joshua Peterson, the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Reuben Delano, the Executor, with Jacob Dingley junr. and Judah Delano, both of Duxborough, as sureties.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 20, p. 406-407, from FHL microfilm #0550711.

 

 

Will of Philip Delano, of Duxbury, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1708) *

In the name of God Amen I Philip Dilino aged & infirm in body yet of perfect memory Doe ordain Constitute & appoint This my Last will & Testament I bequeath my body to the Earth to be buryed at the Discretion of my Executor and my soul into the hand of God my Creator nothing Doubting but at the Resurection my body shall Rise again thrô the Mighty power of Christ my Redeemer who is the Resurection & the Life

And as for what worly Goods it hath pleased God to bless me withall my will is that my honest debts be payd & funerall Charges be Defrayed

Impr: I Give unto my son samuell (whome I appoint to be administrator) all my Lands upland Meadow & swamp within the township of Midlebury or any other place whereof I have not made Disposall already with all my other good moveables & Cattle what so ever saving unto my three Daughters (viz) My Daughters Martha Delino Martha Harlow & Jane Delino

I Give unto my Daughter Harlow one cow

I Give unto my Daughter Jane one cow

I Give unto my Daughter Martha Delino widow one cow & one swine my will is that that swine is now fat be killed & spent in the family

Desiring to Live peaseably & do Dy quietly & that all my Children may quietly agre after my Decease Desiring my borther – Thomas to be over seer of this my Last will & Testament in Conformation whereof I have set my hand & seal this Eleventh Day of December in the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred & Eight in the pesents of

Thomas Delino

Samuell Weston                                                                                                                   Philip Delino     (seal)

Samll Delino

 his S marke

 

Probated on 24 Dec. 1708, and proved by Samll Delino & Samuell Weston. The inventory, dated 11 Dec. 1708, was taken by Abraham Sampson & Joseph Delino.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 2, p. 168-169, from FHL microfilm #0550748.

 

 

Will of Stephen Delano of Rochester, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1821) *

  In the name of God amen. I Stephen Delano of Rochester in the County of Plymouth of sound & disposing mind & memory, knowing that it is appointed to Man to die, do make and ordain this my last Will & Testament, & firstly I bequeath my Soul to God who gave it, hoping in his Mercy for the forgiveness of my transgressions & my Body to the Ground to be buried in a decent Christian Burial – Touching that portion of worldly Estate it has pleased God to bless me, I dispose of the same in the following viz –

                To my beloved Wife Lydia I give & bequeath one third part of my personal Estate & the use & Improvement of one third part of my real Estate during her natural Life. –

                Item. To my daughters Ruth Dexter, Lydia Clark and Susanna Hedley, I give one hundred & fifty Dollars each to be paid by my Executors. –

                Item to my Daughters Silvia Delano & Cynthia Delano, I give three hundred Dollars each, to be paid by my Executors & also the right of living in my dwelling house & Wood from my woodland for Fire, so long as they shall respectively remain single. –

                Item To my Grandson Stephen Delano Hedley & his Heirs I give and bequeath the House & Lot I own at the Old Landing so called. –

                Item To my Sons Stephen Delano & Benjamin Delano & their Heirs, I give & bequeath all the rest & residue of my Estate real & personal to be equally divided between them, except the Homestead farm, which is to be equally divided in quantity by a Line running easterly & westerly parallel with the south Line thereof, the southerly half of which I give to Benjamin & his Heirs, & the northerly half to Stephen & his Heirs, they paying all my just debts Legacies & funeral Charges.

                And I hereby constitute & appoint my said Sons Stephen & Benjamin to be the Executors of this my last Will & Testament – In Testimony of which I hereto set my hand & seal this twenty first day of February AD one thousand eight hundred & twenty one

Signed sealed published and

declared in presence of us

                Harper Delano                                                                                                      Stephen Delano                                (seal)

                Jos. Haskell

                Charles J. Holmes

 

Presented for probate on 19 Mar. 1821 by Stephen Delano, one of the Executors therein named, and proved by Harper Delano and Charles J. Holmes, Esqr., two of the subscribing witnesses.

 

To the Hon Wilkes Wood Esqr., Judge of Probate of Wills &c for the County of Plymouth.

The Subscribes Heirs ad Law of Stephen Delano late of Rochester in the County of Plymouth yeoman deceased hereby certify that they are satisfied with the last Will & Testament of said Stephen Delano, executed the twenty first day of February last past & consent the same shall be approved.

                March 5th 1821 –                                                                                                 Lydia Delano

                                                                                                                                                Ruth Delano

                                                                                                                                                Susan Hedley

                                                                                                                                                Sylvia Delano

                                                                                                                                                Cynthia Delano

                                                                                                                                                Benjamin Dexter

                                                                                                                                                Joseph Hedley

 

Nathaniel Haskell junr., Seth Blankinship and Charles J. Holmes were appointed to take an Inventory of all the Estate whereof Stephen Delano late of Rochester died seized on 5 Mar. 1821. The Inventory of the estate (real & personal) of Stephen Delano, late of Rochester, was dated 7 Mar. 1821, and totaled $7552.83, including his homestead farm exclusive of saltworks valued at $1700, the home and lot at the “old Landing” valued at $300, eighteen Cranes of salt works valued at $720, several other parcels of land, shares in various sloops and schooners, and merchantable goods. Stephen Delano, Executor of the Will of Stephen Delano, gave his oath to the inventory on 19 Mar. 1821.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 53, p. 292-295, from FHL microfilm #0550907.

 

 

Will of Dr. Thomas Delano of Duxbury, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1722) *

In ye Name of God Amen. October ye fifth one thousand seven Hundred & twent two 1722 I Thomas Deleno Senr. of Duxboro. by Reason of old age & ye many Infirmitys of Body which attend it But being of Perfect mind & memory (thanks be given unto God) therefore calling to mind ye mortality of my Body & knowing that it is appointed for all men once to dye, Do make & ordaign this my Last will & Testament that is to Say Principally & first of all I give & Recomend my Soul into ye Hands of God that gave it & my Body I Comend to ye Earth to be buried in Decent Christian Burial at ye Discretion of my Executor; nothing Doubting but at ye general Resurrection I Shall receive ye Same again by ye almighty Power of God: & as touching Such worldly Estate wherewith it hath Pleased God to Bless me in this Life: I give Demise & Dispose of ye Same in ye following manner & Form . . .

Imprimis: First my will is that all my Debts & Funeral Charges be Levyed & Paid out of my Estate. Item; I give & Bequeath to my Son Benoni Deleno five Shillings. Item; I give & Bequeath unto my Son Thomas Deleno one Half Lott of Land Lying in ye Township of middleboro at wappanuckett on ye Easterly Side of assawampset Pond to Him & His Heirs forEver. Item, I give to my Son Jonathan Deleno my Beach Lott to Him & His Heirs forEver & my Chest & Sword. Item, I give to my Son David Deleno five Shillings. Item, I give & Bequeath to my Daughter Mary Deleno my best Bed & Furniture & ye one half of my moveable Estate within Door & out, with all my Right & Interest in ye undivided Land in middleboro & twenty Shillings which is due from John Drew Senr. of middleboro. Item, I give & Bequeath to my Daughter Sarah Drew five Shillings. Item, I give & Bequeath to my Daughter Ruth Drew my next best Bed & Bolster Blankett & Coverled & one Quarter Part of my moveables within Door. Item, I give to my Grand:Daughter Deborah weston one Bed & Bolster & ye Remainder of ye moveables within Door. Item, I Give & Bequeath to my Son Joseph Deleno, whom I likewise Constitute make & ordain my Sole Executor of this my last will & Testament ye one Half of my moveable Estate without Door & my Brand Irons: & I Do Request my friend Mr. John Wadsworth to be overseer of this my last will & Testament: and I Do hereby utterly Disallow Revoke & Disannull all & Every other former Testaments Wills Legacys & Bequests & Executors by me in any ways before named willed & Bequeathed, Ratifying & Confirming this & no other to be my last will & Testament. In Witness whereof I have hereunto Set my hand & Seal ye Day & year above written

Signed Sealed Published Pronounced                                                                                             his

& Declared by ye Sd Thomas Deleno                                                                               Thomas   T   Deleno            (Seal)

as his Last will & Testament                                                                                                            marke

In ye Presence of us ye Subscribers

                Hannah Alden

                Samuel Weston

                Joshua Deleno

 

Probated on 22 Apr. 1723, the will was proved by Hannah Alden, Samuel Weston, & Joshua Deleno. Letter of administration on the estate of Doctor Thomas Deleno, late of Duxboro, was given to Joseph Deleno, the executor, on 6 May 1723.

 

The inventory of the moveable estate of Doctor Thomas Deleno was dated 29 Apr. 1723, appraised by John Alden & Samuel Weston, and totaled £79.5.6. Debts due from the estate of Doctor Thomas Deleno totaled £18.18.10.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 4, p. 358-359, from FHL microfilm #0550510.

 

 

Will of Phillip Delino of Duxbury, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1756) *

The Last will and Testament of Phillip Delino of Duxborough In the County of Plymouth in the Province of the Masachusets bay in New England yeoman. I the Said Phillip Delino being under many bodily Infirmeties yet of Perfect Minde & Memory thanks be given To almighty God therefor Calling To Mind the Mortallity of my body Do upon Serious Consideration make and ordain these Present to be my last will & Testament To Remain Firme and Invoiable for Ever that is to Say first of all I Give & Recommend my Soul into the hands of God that gave it & my body I Recommend to the Earth to be buried in Decent Cristian Maner at the Discresion of my Executors herein after named nothing Doubting but at the General Resurrection I Shall Receve the Same again by the Almighty Power of God & as Touching Such worldly Estate Wherewith It hath pleased God To bless me in this Life I give & Demise & Dispose of the Same in the following manner and forme

Imprs) I Give & bequeth to my only Son Judah Delino My Gun & Sword & my Fishing Craft & all my husbandry Tools

Item I Give & bequeth unto my Daughter Mary Tower Wife To Elijah Tower a Spoon marked P.D

Item I Give & bequeth unto my Daughter Elizabeth Delino a Spoon marked ED

Item I Give & bequeth unto my Daughter Abigail Soul wife To Abisher Soul a Spoon m PD

Item I Give & bequeth unto my Son Judah above named All my Real Estate both Lands & Meddows building & fencing &c provided he finds his Sister Elisabeth before named with a Sufficancy of house Room to Dwell in so long as She Shall Live unmarrid

Item I Give & bequeth To My three Daughters above named all the Remainder of My Estate Viz all my Live Stock and all the Moveables that I have not herein before Given a way after my Debts & funeral Charges are paid to be Equally Divided amongst my three Daughters

Lastly My will Is that my Son Judah Delino & my Son in Law Abisher Soul above named be the Soul Executors of this my last will & Testament thus hooping that this my last will be Keept & Performed according To the Trew Intent & meaning thereof.  In witnis where of I the afore named Phillip Delino have hereunto Set my hand & Seal this Third Day of Decr. Anno domini one thousand Seven hundred & fifty Six. 1756

Signd. Sealed & Declared by the above                                                                          Phillip Delino                   (seal)

Named Phillip Delino to be his

Last will & Testament

        In Presenc of.

William Thomas

Joseph Cushman

Jonathan Peterson

 

Presented for probate on 1 June 1761 by the Executor therein named, and proved by William Thomas and Jonathan Peterson, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Judah Delino and Abisha Soul, both of Duxborough, Husbandman, the Executors, on 1 June 1761.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 16, p. 154-156, from FHL microfilm #0551543.

 

 

Will of Simon Delis of Scituate, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1747)  *

In the Name of God amen the fourth day of August in the year of our Lord 1747. I Simon Delis of Scituate in the County of Plimouth in New England Feltmaker being weak and infirm of Body but of sound mind & Memory through the blessing of Almighty God haveing a just sence of the Mortallity Once to dye do make and Ordain this my last will and Testament in manner & form following, renouncing annulling by these presents all and Every will or wills Testament or Testaments by me heretofore made or Declared by me Either by word or writeing and this only to be taken for my last—

And first being Penitent, and humbly asking for giveness for my past sins, I recomend my Soul to almighty God who gave it, and my body I recomend to the Earth in Christian Burial in full and Certain hopes of a Joyfull resurrection unto life & Glory through the Merits of our Blessed Lord and Redeemer Jesus Christ and as to such Estate as it hath pleased God to bless me with in this life I Give & dispose of the same in Manner & form following viz. Imprimis, I Give & Bequeath unto my Beloved son Claudius Delis the sum of ten shillings, and, and also all all he is indebted unto me by bond or otherways in full of his portion of my Estate, but here I must not omit that I do bequeath to him all my wareing Cloaths wollen & Linnen —

Item. I Give and bequeath unto my beloved son Simon John Delis the sum of ten shillings and all that he is indebted unto me by bond Book or otherways in full of his portion of my Estate –

Item, I Give and bequeath unto my kind & well beloved wife Patience Delis and such Goods & Estate as I received with her in mariage at her own dispose, But in case any of my daughters or Grand Daughters Shall carry themselves reverently & loveingly to her, I do leave it to her discretion to give to such a one such a Girl as She shall see cause, in remembrance of me. –

Item, I do hereby bequeath and dispose of the rest of my money Moveable Goods and Estate not already in this will disposed off I do ordain & direct to be put into the hands of my Trustee hereafter named impowering him to sell such of my houshold Goods as my wife can best spare to be imployed to such use and in such manner as follows, viz, intrest of all my bonds Notes of hand and such other Estate as my said Trustee Shall Judge with the advise of my beloved wife to be proper to turn into money for the advantage of my Estate being sold for the real worth of the same, my will is that he be hereby Enabled to do it & to see that the income of my money Shall be yearly paid to my beloved wife dureing her Continuing a Widdow in Consideration of her Extra ordinary care and tender rediness to me, & all the rest of my moveables the use of my best Suite of Curtains & Bed quilt dureing her Natural life She giveing bond to my Trustee to leave the same Curtains and quilt upon her decease And for my Trustee to deliver them up to whom I Shall here after appoint, and in case my beloved wife in her widowhood should fall sick or lame and the Income Income of my Estate Should prove insufficient to mantain her, my will is that my Trustee is hereby impowered to make Sale of the principal for her Support and maintenance, and in case my beloved wife Should see cause to marry again my will is in case she marrys with a man of Good life and Convenation and keeps up the Ordinances of the Gospel, then my will is She Shall receive one half of the income of my money and liberty to keep one half of my moveable Goods and Household Stuff, But in case She Should marry an Irreligious man And not keep up the Ordinancys of the Gosple then the Aforesaid Gift Shall Cease, Only the Callico Curtains & Quilt Aforesaid which She Shall injoy dureing her Natural life and after her decease the income of my money and Household Goods & State to be returned to my Trustee to be disposed of by him, as it Shall be Expres’d hereafter. –

Item, I Give & Bequeath to my beloved Daughter Mary Stetson Ten Shillings & the privilige to set in my Pew in St. Andrews Church as long as She Shall live & no more, Besides Besides what I will Give to her son Nathaniel & her Daughter Elizabeth Stetson as it Shall be hereafter ordered ~

Item I Give and bequeath to my beloved daughter Elizabeth House the sum of ten Shillings and the privilige to set in my Pew in St. Andrews Church as long as she Shall live besides I Gave her Before for her portion, But in Consideration of her Dutifull kindness and care of me, while I was at her house, I Give & bequeath her five pounds old tenour to be paid her as it Shall be Exprest hereafter

Item In case my beloved wife Should perform the first proposal of her Mariage then my will is She Shall injoy all the aforesd. priviliges as it is heretofore Expres’d, and I do impower my Trustee to take an Account of all the Goods that is left & found, and what money there shall be found by bills or bonds or any otherways to distribute it as here after follows, it shall be after my beloved wife shall be deceased –

Item I bequeath unto my son Claudius Delis Eldest daughter Elizabeth the aforesaid Sute of Callico Curtains, and a Calleco Bed quilt But least She should be x upon the Curtains nor the Bedquilt they are very Creditable and they were never yet usd, But She is not to have them given her till after my beloved wifes decease, and upon the Condtitions hereafter mentioned and to his three sons & Daughter Lydia I Give equal, To my daughter Mary Stetsons two Children, Nathaniel and Elizabeth Stetson the use of my Pew in St. Andrews Church excepted provided they all Conform to the worship and Discipline of the Church of England, and if any of them Shall Simple whether it be Christ Church they Shall have Six months time to inform themselves by such means as shall be provided to them as the Abridgment of Londons case the History of the reformation of the Church of England set out by Doctr. Nicholas, and by the perswasive letter to the people of Holland to remove the prejudice to the Comon prayer book, there cannot be in a Kingdom two appoint Goverments, But after their Examination those that cannot Conform Shall have Nothing, and if One of them or all Shall Conform my will is that they Shall be made Equall alike; Excepting Grandson Simon Delis if he be one of them that will conform he Shall have above them that will Conform my Silver Shoe buckles at the time as it is abovesaid after by beloved wife is deceasd, Furthermore my will is that all my Grand Children that are like to be Conformish and are yet under age, when distribution Shall be made what their portion Shall be it Shall be put to intrest for their benifit untill they come of age and if anyone Should die of them the Next Surviver Shall have his portion, But before the Accomplishment of this my last will and Testament it will not be amiss that I may set some things down for them who Shall see or hear to Consider what doth follow, then be it known to ye all that Shall see or hear of the Misbehaviour of my Contrary Party, that since Septem 1746 there hath been very unjust Striveing by under handed worke to Disposes me and mine of my pew Which I had purchased not only with my money but also by Honourable Considerations of revd. Mr Davenporte saying to me ye are after after God and with his blessings, the first man which did Cause this Church to be set up in this place & ye are the oldest man that is among us, pray said he Mr. Delis take the Choice of the Pews that are in the Church, but that I might not Exalt my selfe of haveing Such praise beyond measure, it hath pleased God to suffer to Suffer that I have been so persecuted by unjust oppression, that it hath vexed my Spirit within me and made my heard desolve, But for as much I have the Comfort to see that my Labour hath not been in vain in the Lord, but it was prosperous through Gods blessing, By whose Spirit I am if the Count that my aforesaid labour was Gods blessing upon my Sincere indeavour, so I am the first man which hath Given Such Legacy as it Shall hereafter be named.

Item, I Give and bequeath to Each my Grandsons Combs House and Nathaniel Stetson the use of my Pew in St. Andrews Church as long as they Shall live, and to theirs after them provided they Shall perform the following Condition that is to pay yearly twenty Shillings Each for the use here ordered afterword but here it must be Observed that my both Grandsons Shall not take possession of the foresaid Pew before they are come to age, but my beloved wife & both daughters be Still liveing they Shall Injoy their privilige without molestations as long as they live, but in Case my both Grandmentiond Sons could not Settle conveniently to come to Church, Item my Will is that they nor no man nor men nor any person whatsoever Shall sell my Pew to any person or persons whatever, But as I said above if my Grandsons or one of them Could not Conveniently come to Church my pew being the income is Designed for the benifit for whom it Shall be, declared hereafter so that whosoever it is who Injoy it Shall be to them, as if they only did hire it, for as I will that the income of my pew Shall be for the Benifitt of those for whom it, Shall be declared here after it Shall be hired out to as many persons as can Conveniently Set in it beside them that have the privilige to set in it, and altho, the Church is indebted to me ever since it hath been set up, my Will is if I cannot pay the Six pounds ten Shillings I am rated for toward the finishing the Church my will is that my Executor Shall pay it out of my Estate ~~ Item I Give & Bequeath to St. Andrews Church in Scituate the Income of twenty five pounds forever, that is to say One third part to the Support of the Minstre provided they Shall full fill the Conditions hereafter proposed which if they do not full fill then they Shall forfeit my foresaid Gift and it Shall be Given to the poor Widdows as it Shall hereafter said for my Will Shall unalterable, Item I Give and Bequest the Two thirds part of the aforesd. twenty five pounds forever for the Support of the The poor Widdows that Shall be Comunicat in the foresaid St. Andrews Church, and also I Give them all the Income of my Pew forever which may be maid by hireing it to such persons as Shall [can’t read] Seats to set in, but all them which I am Going to Object against shall forever be Expel’d from set in to my Pew, and after I have made an end of my Will then I Shall Give some of my reasons for it, Now I come to tell who they are that are to be Expelled, They who bear the Name of David House and all the Family of Mr. Bezaliel Palmer, and all the Family of Mr. Jacob Bailey

My Will and Testament is after my beloved whife She is deceas’d that all the income of my money and of my moveable Goods & Household Stuff and Curtains & the Bed quilt which were put in to her hands for her own use and improvement dureing the Term of her Widdowhood But in case She shall Marry Again and She Shall receive one half of the income of my money and Should Injoy also one half of my moveable Goods and Household Stuff, and the Callico Curtains and Callico Bed quilt dureing her Natural life and after her decease to be returned to my Executor to be disposed of by him as it is Expressed already heretofore, then my Will is that my beloved Daughter Elizabeth House shall receive my Gift as it is before Expres’d, my Will is that the twenty five pounds I have Given forever for Such uses as it is before Expres’d with the income of my Pew with what it will bring in, it Shall be put in Intrest with by bonds on Notes of Hand & other Moveable Estate or money as my Executor hereafter Name Shall Judge with my beloved wife proper to turn it into money for the advantage of my Estate as it is before Express’d, I say my Will is that it Shall be put in Intrest upon Good and Sure Security, And my Trustee is hereby Impowered as it is Expres’d before to see that my beloved wife Shall have the Income of that money that Shall be put out for that purpose, And furthermore my Will is that after the decease of my Beloved wife that for the increase of the Stock I have Given towards the maintenance of the Minister & Poor Widows of the said St. Andrews Church Shall not be made use of untill ten years after my wifes decease and at the End of ten years then the twenty five pounds and all the income of it Shall be put altogether into One sum, and as it is before said I Give one third part of the income forever of the foresaid Sum, yearly to the Rector of the said Church, provided they Shall fulfill the Conditions abovesaid, that they shall oppose from time to time forever those who are Expelled from Set in to my pew, and that Rector of sd. Church that Shall not Observe the foresaid Conditions Shall forefeit my Gift and as it is before said it Shall be given for the benifit of the poor Widdows for ever.—

Item I Give and bequeath the privilige to my Executor Hereafternamed to set in to my Pew as long he shall live provided he Shall not suffer any that I have Expelled from Set in to my Pew as long he Shall come to the said St. Andrews Church, and in Case any one of my daughters Should admit any one of them that are Expelled from Set in to my Pew I impower him after the first and Second and third time to Expell them by the Assistance of the Rector, and I hope that my Executor Shall take all the Care he can to see that if their be any seat in my Pew that may be hired to do it as soon as Oppertunity present for to promote the benyfits of the poor widows, I would not that it Should be understood that my haveing Givein the Inome of my pew to the Widdows Should Exemp them who have mind to to hire a Seat or Seats in my pew to pay toward the Maintenance of the Minister or toward the Charges which may come toward the Church. no this is not maintanation. for whosoever Shall hire wether it be a head of a Family or a Single person who Shall hire Seat or Seats they Shall be rated proportionably according to the income of their Estate this rule must be observed among Christians. my Will it is Still if my both Grandsons Coume House and Nathaniel Stateson Should come in age and settle conveniently to come to Church they Shall injoy my Pew and their upon the aforesaid Conditions which Shall never be alterd and if their be any of the poor Widdows Should want to be releived after the ten years are Expired My Will is that the Rector With the two Church Wardens that they Distribute to them Out of the income of the Stock, which Stock Shall not be Diminished, according to their discretion as they Shall see the want the poor Widdows Shall Stand in Need and what the income of the Stock can afford it is to be understood that all the Legacies that I have bequeathd is in old tenour, I Would not have to be understood as if I had any Expectation of meeting a reward in a future life because I have devoted such small things for pious & Charityable use no no far be it from me to have such Dangerous thought in me, for our Good works are all Mixd with Sins, and Our Good works cannot Endure the severity of Gods Judgment yet are they pleasing and Acceptable to him, read, Heb: 13.16. and St. Jam. 2 verse 17.18 and 22. to 26, many more Scripture might be produced to this purpose, but if we do beleive these are the word of God, then Good works are Acceptable to him in Christ Jesus Who is my Only hope and help to Obtain Eternal Salvation through his Meritts. –

Item my Will is I bequeast to My beloved wife a Decent Mourning suit and a Mourning ring of four pound of Old tenour after my decease And I do ordain and Constitute and appoint my beloved Friend Joshua Yongue of Scituate Executor to this my last will and Testament In Witness wherof I have hereunto Set my hand & Seal the day and year above written

Signed Sealed pronounced published and

Declared to be my last will & Testament

In the presence of us witnesses ~~                                                                                   Simon Delis                       (seal)

Thomas Bardin

Abijah White

Ezekiel Palmer

 

Presented for probate on 1 Feb. 1747[/48] by the Executor, and proved by Thomas Bardin, Abijah White, and Ezekiel Palmer, the witnesses. The original will was not deposited in the probate folder for Simon Delis.

 

To John Cushing Esqr Judge of the Probate of Wills for the County of Plimouth &c.  Whereas Mr. Simon Delis late of Scituate Deceas’d by his will dated August the fourth 1747 appointed me Executor, And inasmuch as the said Will appears to me to be very Unintelligible and Great Difficulty may arise to me by reason thereof And on other accounts if I should proceed therein, Therefore these are to Inform yor. Honr. That I do hereby Renouce ye. sd. Executorship and Desire to be Excused from any trouble or Concern therein –

January 15. 1747                                                                                                                 Joshua Young

 

Patience Dillis of Scituate in the County of Plimouth Widdow, was granted administration cum Testamento Annexd of the Estate of Simon Dillis of Scituate, on 14 Jan. 1748. Saml. Shearman and Abijah White, of Marshfield, yeomen, were sureties on the bond of Patience Dillis, of Scituate, widow, as administratrix on the estate of Simon Dillis, late of Scituate, Feltmaker, on 14 Jan. 1747.

Jonah Stetson                                                                                                                       Patience Dellis

Ezek: Turner                                                                                                                         Samuel Shearman

                                                                                                                                                Abijah White

 

The Inventory of the estate of Mr. Simon Dillis, late of Scituate, was appraised by Abijah White, Joshua Young, and Thos. Stockbridge on 14 Jan. 1747[/48], and totaled £738.1.0, including a piece of land & meadow that was mortgaged by Jno. Turner to the deceased, the time of redemption being not yet expired, valued at £200, two bonds valued at £120, and the Callico Bed Quilt & Curtains valued at £46.5. Patience Dillis, the administratrix cum Testamento Annexo on the estate of Simon Dillis, gave her oath to the inventory on 14 Jan. 1747[/48].

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 11, p. 12-20, and Probate Docket #6343.

 

 

Will of Jemima Denton of Hempstead, Queens County, Province of New York (1734) *

In the Name of God Amen ye eighth day of June Anno Domini one thousand seven hundred thirty & four I Jemima Denton of Hempstead in Queens County on Nassau Island being very sick and weak in body but of perfect mind # # & memory thanks be to God & considering ye frailty of humane nature & the Mortality of my body knowing its appointed for all mankind once to dye do make & ordain this my Last Will & Testament that is to say Principally and first of all I give and Recommenend my Soul into ye hands of a Mercifull God that Gave it & my body I Recommend to ye Earth to be buried in a Christian Like manner at ye discretion of my Executors Nothing Doubting but alltho it shall Lye Mouldering for a time in ye dust & Earth at ye Generall resurrection I shall receive ye same again by ye mighty Power of God and as touching such Worldly Estate where with it hath pleased God to bless me within this Life I give Devise & Dispose of the same in the following manner & form  Imprimis I order and my Will is that # # my Negro Girl be Sold & all other of my Estate of What nature or quallity soever to ye best advantage and at ye Discretion of my Executors hereafter named and my funeral charges and all other my Just debts to be paid by my Executors hereafter named and all the sum & Sums of money already Due to me that shall arrise or become Due by ye Sale of my Negro Girl & ye Rest of my Estate as abovesaid after my Just Debts be first payed as above said to be taken care of by my Executors hereafter named for the use benefit & towards ye bringing up suporting & subsisting my Daughter Deborah whome I commit to ye care of my Executors hereafter named to be brought up at their discretion & all the sum sums of money & all other of my Estate that shall remaine after my sd. Daughter Deborah when she shall arrive to ye years & age of eighteen years but if she should be married before ye age of eighteen years then to be paid unto her att marriage Day by my Executors hereafter named but if my said Daughter Deborah should die before marriage or before # # # # # she arrives to ye age of eighteen years then my Will is that all my Estate Sums & sums of money that shall be remaining shall be equally divided between my Sisters Viz: Mary ye Wife of Benjamin Smith, Deborah ye Wife of Joseph Carman & Ann ye Wife of John Fayrweather to be paid to them by my Executors hereafter named & I Do constitute make and ordain Jacob Smith Esqr. my loving Brother Benjamin Smith & Jonathan Rowland Executors of this my last Will & Testament and I do hereby utterly Disallow Revoke and Disanul all and every other formers Testaments Wills Legaceys and Executors by me in any ways before this time named Willed & bequeathed Ratifieing & allowing confirming this and no other to be my Last Will & Testament In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and Seal the day and year above written.

                                                                                                                                                Jemima Denton    Ä

Signed Sealed Published and Pronounced Declared by the said Jemima Denton as her Last Will and Testament in ye presence of us the subscribers

Micah Smith

Robert Maruin

Timothy Tredwll

 

Probated on 27 July 1734, Letters of Administration granted to Jacob Smith and Benjamin Smith, two of the Executors, Jonathan Rowland, the other Executor, having relinquished the same.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from New York County Probate, Vol. 12, p. 188-190, copied from original Liber 12, p. 196-198.

 

 

Will of Samuel Denton of Hempstead, Queens County, Province of New York (1717) *

In the Name of God Amen I Samuel Denton of Hempstead In Queens County within the Colony of New York Yeoman being Now in perfect Health and of sound Mind and Memory (Praised be God for the same) but Knowing the Certainty of Death and Uncertain hour of its Approach Do Make this my Last Will and Testament in Manner and Form following, My Soul I Bequeath to God who gave it My Body to the Earth from whence it came in Certain hopes of a Joyfull Resurrection and Reunion at the Last Day and of Eternal Salvation through the Sole Merrits of My Redeemer Christ Jesus and for My Worldly Estate wherewith it hath pleased God to Bless me I Devise and Bequeath the same as follows. First I Will that My Funeral Charges and all other My Just Debts be paid and Satisfied Then I Give and Bequeath unto my well beloved Wife Abigail All my Houses Lands and Meadows To have and To Hold to her Sole use for the Maintainance of her and our Children During the time of her Widowhood and also the use of all such Lands as shall According to the Directions herein After given be purchased by my Executors but if she happen to Marry Again then she is Immediately to Surrender all such Houses and Lands and Meadows to the use of My Son Joseph I also Give to My said beloved Wife the one Equal third part of all My personal Estate which said Share and use of My Estate as aforesaid shall be in Lieu of her Dower and all other pretentions to my Estate Whatso Ever Item I hereby Order and Impower My Executors hereafter Named to Sell My Meadows Ground Lying at a place Called Near Rockway in Hempstead and the produce thereof to be Divided amongst my Daughters as hereafter is Directed  Item I Give Devise and Bequeath to My Son Joseph Denton and to his heirs and Assigns forever all my Houses Lands and Meadows (Excepting the peice of Meadow Afoor Ordered to be Sold to the use of My Daughter) And Also all such Lands as shall happen According to the Direction herein after Exprest to be purchased by my Executors to have the possession thereof as soon as his Mother shall happen to Dye or Remarry But if My said Son Shall happen to Dye before he comes to the Age of Twenty One years or if After that Age he shall happen to Dye without Issue and Without Makeing Any will or otherwise Disposeing of the said Estate real Then I will that the Same shall goe to My Daughters Which shall then be alive to be Equally Divided between them To have and to hold to them And their Heirs And Assignes forever  Item I Give to my Four Daughters Mary, Deborah Jemimah And Anne the other two thirds of my personal Estate And the Money to be produced by the Sale of the peice of Meadow at Near Rockway to be Equally Divided betwixt them to be Delivered to them on their Marriage or when they Arrive to the Age of Twenty One years and if any of them Dye before the said age or Marriage the share of such to be Equally Divided Amongst the survivors of them  Item because my Land is But Indifferently Timbered (if My Executors see fitt) I doe hereby Impower them to Sell any of My Houses Lands or Meadows at any time During my Sons Minority and with the Money to purchase for him other Lands Which is better Timbered  Lastly I hereby Nominate and Appoint My Loving Brother Jonas Denton and my good Friend Samuel Emery Junr of Flushing to be my Sole Executors of this My Last Will and Testament And do hereby Disannul all other Wills or Testaments by me at any time heretofore Made In Witness Whereof I have hereunto put My Hand and Seal this Fourteenth Day of February Seventeen Hundred and Seventeen

                                                                                                                                                Samuel Denton                 (seal)

Signed Sealed and published by the within Named Samuel Denton as his Last Will And Testament in presence of us

Geo Cocke

Tho Keble

S Clowes

 

Letters of Administration granted to Jonas Denton and Samuel Emery, the Executors, on 27 May 1719.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from New York County Probate, Vol. 9, p. 69-71, copied from original Liber 9, p. 59-61.

 

 

Will of Samuel Denton of Jamaica, Queens County, Province of New York (1718) *

In the Name of God Amen The Twenty Fifth Day of Aprill in the Fourth Year of the Reigne of our Souvraigne Lord George King over Great Brittian &c. Annoq Domini One Thousand Seven Hundred and Eighteen I Samuel Denton of Jamaica in Queens County on Nassau Island in the province of New York BlackSmith being in Health of body And of Good and perfect Memory thanks be to God Calling into Mind the Certainty of Death And the Uncertain hour thereof do Make and Ordain this My Last Will and Testament That is to say principally and first of all I Give and Recommend My Soul into the hands of God that gave it by whom of his meer and only Grace I trust to be saved through the Death of my Saviour and Redeemer Jesus Christ My Body in hope of a Joyfull Resurrection I Commit to the Earth to be buried in a Christian like and Decent Manner at the Discretion of my Executors and touching and Concerning the Distribution of my worldly Estate I Dispose of the same as followeth first I Will that all such Debts as I owe shall be Truly paid  Item I give and Bequeath unto my well beloved Wife Martha Denton the Free use and Occupation and Benifit of all and Singular my Real and personal Estate of What Nature or Kind soever Dureing And Untill she Remains My Widdow only my Mother is to have Liberty to pasture Two Cows and to have her Firewood Yearly Dureing the said time of and on the premisses But if it should happen that my said Wife should Marry again Then my Will is that my said Estate shall be Valued and Apprized And my said Wife is to have Three Hundred pounds out of the same (upon Condition that she Claim no Title or Interest or Dower or Thirds of and upon My Estate abovesaid to Remain to her and assigns for Ever  Item if it please God that my said beloved Wife do Dye My Widdow then I do give Devise And Bequeath unto my Two Loving Brothers Jacomiah Denton and Hezekiah Denton all my said Estate Real and personall Goods Chattells Lands and Tennements To have and to hold to them and to their heirs and assigns for Ever To be Equally Divided between them and their Respective Heirs Share and Share alike My will is this Bequest and Devise shall Immediately take Effect after My said Wifes Decease And Further my will is that if it shall happen that my said beloved Wife do Marry again that then I do Give Devise and Bequeath unto My said Two Brothers Jacomiah and Hezekiah all the Rest Residue and Remaining part of my said Estate of what Nature or Kind soever After the said Three Hundred pounds is taken out by my Wife as abovesaid to Remain to them and to their Heirs and assigns forever Equally to be Devided as abovesaid  Item I do Give unto the Children of my Sister Sarah Wills Namely to Samuel Clement and Sarah the sum of Four pounds Each to be paid them by my said Brothers when they shall respectively Come to Age  Item I do give and Bequeath unto the Children of my Sister Clement Smith Namely to Robert John Mary Abraham Ebenezer and Samuel Also the sum of Four pounds each New York Money to be paid them also by my said Brothers Jacomiah and Hezekiah when they shall severally and Respectively Arrive to Age as abovesaid And if it should happen that any of the abovenamed Children should dye before they Come to Age then my will is that his or their part or portion shall be Devided among the Surviving Brothers and Sisters  Item My Will is that if it should happen that either of my said Brothers should Dye before they have Disposed of the Estate Above Bequeathed to them that then the Surviving shall wholly Enjoy the same to be to his use and to his heires and assigns for Ever – Item I make and ordain my said beloved Wife Martha Denton and my Loving Brother Jacomiah Denton to be my Executors of this my Last Will and Testament And I do hereby Impower and Authorize my said Executors to alienate And Convey all or any part of my said Estate Lands &c as to them shall Seem Convenient for the paying of the Legacies Abovesaid And I do utterly Revoke all Former Wills and Testaments by me in any wise heretofore Made or Declared  In Witness Where of I have hereunto being my Last Will and Testament Subscribed with my own Hand and thereunto put My Seal the Day and Year first above Written

                                                                                                                                                Samuel Denton                 (seal)

Sealed Declared and Delivered by the said Samuel Denton in the presence of these Witnesses

Joseph Smith

Samuel Ketcham

Amey Smith

Probated on 8 Sept. 1718, and proved by Joseph Smith, Samuel Ketcham and Amey Smith, the witnesses. Letters of Administration granted to Jacomiah Denton, one of the Executors, on 7 Apr. 1719, Martha Denton, the other Executor, having renounced the same.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from New York County Probate, Vol. 9, p. 49-52, copied from original Liber 9, p. 42-44.

 

 

Will of William Dexter of New Bedford, Bristol County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1805) *

Be it remembered that I William Dexter of New Bedfd in the County of Bristol, Yeoman, being weak in body but of sound and perfect mind and Memory: considering the uncertainty of this Mortal life: do make and publish this my last Will and Testament, in Manner following (viz.) Item I give unto my beloved Daughter Eunice Steavens my salt Marsh lying and being in that part of New Bedford commonly called Misery Neck Together with my wood Lot, containing between five and six Acres be the same more or less; –

Imprimis I give to my beloved Daughter Abigail Bowles, all my Cattle sheep and swine that I shall have at my decease. Imprimis I give to my Grand Son Seth Stevens my Farming Utentials and Tools of every description; The reason why I do not give my son Luen Dexter none of my small Estate; is I have heretofore given him all that I ever intend he should have of my Estate; lastly I give to my said Daughter Eunice Steavins all the rest and residue of my Estate not heretofore given away, of every Name and description She the said Eunice paying my Funeral Charges and the expence of Setling my said Estate – and all demands that are against me or my Estate – I hereby Appoint my good Friend John Tinckham of New Bedford my Sole Executor of this my last Will and Testament hereby revoking all former Wills, heretofore made

        In witness whereof I have here unto set my hand and

        Seal this Tenth day of March in the Year of Our Lord

        Eighteen Hundred & Five –                                                                                                      his

        Signed Sealed published and

        declared by the above Named                                                                                  William  X  Dexter                              (seal)

        William to be his last Will &                                                                                                mark

        Testament in the presence of

        Us, who at his request and in

        his presence have here unto Subscribed

        our Names as Witnesses to the same

        Patience Cornish

        Richard Delano

        Seth Spooner                                                                                                May 7, 1805 Approved

 

Bartholomew Akin, David Mitchell and Abner Jenne all of New Bedford, yeomen, were appointed to appraise the estate of William Dexter, late of New Bedford, on 21 Mar. 1805. The inventory was dated 22 Mar. 1805, and sworn to by John Tinkham, the Executor, on 7 May 1805.

 

Presented for probate on 7 May 1805 by John Tinkham, the Executor, and proved by Richard Delano and Seth Spooner, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted unto John Tinkham, with Richard Delano, Yeoman, and John Taber the Second, Yeoman, all of New Bedford, as sureties.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Bristol County Probate File “William Dexter, New Bedford, 1805,” from FHL microfilm #0575127.

 

 

Will of Manasseh Dickerman of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1818) *

In the Name of God amen  I Manasseh Dickerman of Bridgwater in the County of Plymouth being weak in Body but of sound Mind & Memory blessed be almighty God for the same do make and publish this my last Will and Testament in manner & form following.—

                Imprimis I give & bequeath to unto my beloved Wife Thirza Dickerman the Improvement of one third part of all my real Estate during her Widowhood Also one Cow & the Improvement of all my household Goods excepting my Watch and Clock & one Feather bed & Furniture belonging to the same. —

                Item I give and bequeath to my eldest Son Samuel Dickerman one Dollar to be paid in two Years after my decease, it being his full share of my Estate with what I have before given him —

                Item I give and bequeath to my eldest Daughter Rebecca Dalie Wife of Lewis Dalie one Dollar to be paid in two years after my decease, it being her full share of my Estate with what I have before given her.—

                Item I give & bequeath to my Daughter Ruth Guinett Wife of John Guinett Twenty Dollars to be paid in two years after my decease it being her full Share of my Estate, with what I have before given her. —

                Item I give & bequeath to my Daughter Sally Shepardson, the Wife of Nathaniel Shepardson twenty Dollars to be paid in two Years after my Decease, it being her full share of my Estate with what I have before given her –

                Item I give and bequeath to my Daughter Mary Shaw Wife of Ebenezer Shaw thirty Dollars to be paid in two years after my decease, it being her full share of my Estate with what I have before given her. —

                Item I give & bequeath to my Daughter Thirza Dickerman, one hundred Dollars to be paid in two years after my Decease.—

                Item I give and bequeath to my Daughter Roxana Randall Dickerman seventy five Dollars to be paid in two years after my decease. –

                Item it is also my Will that what of my household Goods shall remain at my wife’s decease to be equally divided betwixt my five youngest daughters after settling to my two youngest Daughters Thirza & Roxanna Randall one Feather bed apiece–

                Item I give and bequeath to my youngest Son Manasseh Dickerman his Heirs & Assigns forever about twenty Acres of Land be the same more or less lying on the southerly part of my homestead Farm & is bounded as followeth (viz) beginning at the north East Corner of Silas Snow’s Land on the southerly side of the Land that leads from my Barn easterly, then north to the middle of said Lane – then easterly by the middle of said Land to a flat Stone in the Ground about two rods north east of the House that Nathan Bryant now lives in then east ‘till it comes to a Stone Wall then southerly by said Wall to where it turns west then easterly part of the way by a Stone Wall so far as to include a Spring, that is called & known by the name of the round Spring, then south in a Straight Line one rod east of said Spring to Samuel Dickerman’s Land otherwise is bounded by the Lands of said Samuel, Oliver Bryant & the said Silas Snow to the first Bounds —

                Item I give and bequeath to my two Sons Oliver Dickerman and Liman Dickerman, the value of one hundred & fifty Dollars apiece in Land to be appraised to them by three disinterested Freeholders living in the Town of Bridgwater to be appoint my Executors hereafter named & the Land to be taken at the Place where it shall be thought most convenient by my said Executors —

                Item I give and bequeath to my three Sons Benjamin Franklin Dickerman, Oliver Dickerman & Liman Dickerman, to their Heirs and Assigns forever all the Rest and Residue and Remainder of my Estate both real & personal wheresoever lying or being after my just Debts funeral Charges & Legaises are paid & discharged. –

                Item it is also my Will that if either of my said Sons Oliver Liman or Manasseh shall decease before they arrive to the age of twenty one Years & without a lawful begotten Heir, then in that case the devise which I have bequeathed him so deceased be equally divided betwixt the surviving ones of my four youngest Sons or to their Heirs.—

                Finally I do hereby constitute & appoint my Son Samuel Dickerman and Ensn. Mark Perkins joint Executors of this my last Will and Testament hereby giving them full power to sell & dispose of any part of my Estate (not above disposed of) as they shall think fit or proper for the paying & discharging of my just Debts, funeral Charges and Legacies —

                In confirmation whereof I have hereunto set my hand & Seal this fifth day of February in the Year of our Lord one Thousand eight hundred & eighteen.

Signed sealed published & declared by the

above named Manasseh Dickerman

to be his last will & Testament in the presence

of us who at his request & in his presence

have hereunto subscribed our Names                                                                              Manasseh Dickerman                    (seal)

as witnesses to the same –

                Jonathan Snow

                Caleb Howard

                Silas Snow

 

Presented for probate on 2 Mar. 1818 by Samuel Dickerman and Mark Perkins, the Executors therein named, and proved by Jonathan Snow and Caleb Howard Esqrs, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Samuel Dickerman and Mark Perkins, the before named Executors.

 

Caleb Howard Esqr., Jonathan Snow Esqr. and Nathan Packard, Gentleman, all of Bridgwater, were appointed to appraise the Estate of Manasseh Dickerman, late of Bridgwater, yeoman, on 2 Mar. 1818. The Inventory of the Estate of Manasseh Dickerman, late of Bridgwater, dated 9 Mar. 1818, totaled $4304.34, including his real estate valued at $3582. Samuel Dickerman and Mark Perkins, the Executors, gave their oath to the inventory on 7 Apr. 1818.

 

Caleb Howard Esqr., Jonathan Snow Esqr., and Nathan Packard, Gentleman, all of Bridgwater, all Freeholders in said County, were appointed to set off one third part of the real estate of Manasseh Dickerman, late of Bridgwater, yeoman, to his widow Thirza Dickerman as her dower in the estate, on 2 Mar. 1818. The division was dated 9 Mar. 1818, and approved on 5 Oct. 1818.

 

Samuel Dickerman and Mark Perkins, Executors of the estate of Manasseh Dickerman, late of Bridgwater, have agreeably to the direction in the last will of the deceased, set off to Oliver Dickerman, a minor son of the deceased, of whom Silas Snow is Guardian, five acres three quarters and three and a half rods amounting to the sum of one hundred & fifty dollars on 10 Mar. 1819, and to Lyman Dickerman, a minor son of the deceased, of whom Lieut. Nathan Packard is Guardian, five acres and fifty seven rods amounting to the sum of one hundred & fifty dollars on 10 Mar. 1819. The appraisers were Jonathan Snow Esqr., Capt. Zachh. Gurney and Hayward Marshall.

 

Zechariah Gurney and Mark Perkins, Gentlemen, and Elijah Packard, yeoman, all of Bridgwater, were appointed to divide the remaining real estate of Manasseh Dickerman, late of Bridgwater, yeoman, among his three sons Benjamin Dickerman, Oliver Dickerman, and Lyman Dickerman, agreeably to his last will & testament on 6 Apr. 1819. The division was dated 12 Apr. 1819, and approved on 3 May 1819.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 49, pp. 222-224, 274-275, and 491-493, from FHL microfilm #0550905, and Vol. 50, pp. 146, 188-189.

 

 

Will of Daniel Diman of Plymouth, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1797) *

In the name of God Amen. I Daniel Diman of Plymouth in the county of Plymouth & Commonwealth of Massachusetts, yeoman, being advanced in years, but of sound & disposing mind & memory, do make and ordain this to be my last will & testament, and in the first place, I give my soul to God, trusting in the merits of the redeemer of eternal life, my body I resign to the dust to be buried in a decent manner, and as to my worldly estate, after my just debts & funeral expences are discharged, I give & bequeath the same in manner following

First. I Give to my well beloved wife Patience, the use & improvement of my whole estate both real & personal, during the whole time she shall remain my widow, and if necessary for her comfortable support, I hereby impower her to sell my personal estate, and the house lot or piece of land I purchased of James Warren Esqr. lying between my dwelling house & the house of Ichabod Shaw junr. on the easterly side of the street

2nl I Give to my Daughter Elisabeth, if she shall survive her mother Patience, aforesaid (and upon the express condition that she never marries) all my personal estate and moveables, which is not necessarily disposed of as aforesaid, also that half of my house & Garden where I now live, and a certain piece of meadow land in said Plymouth containing about one and a half acre which I bought of James Warren Esqr. at a place called Goose point, and also one right in my Pew in the meeting house in Plymouth, to come into possession of all these premises after the decease or marriage of her sd mother Patience, and upon condition she does not marry as aforesaid. if she should marry, then the whole of the above premises given to her as aforesaid to be equally divided between said Elisabeth & my other children— viz~. Rebecca, David & Josiah, the said David & Josiah paying her one hundred Silver Dollars out of my estate, and I also give said Elisabeth if she marries, my wood Lot, which I purchased of Abiel Shurtleff, being five acres, more or less, lying at the head of my other lands at the head of Deacon Wood’s land

3rd I Give to my Sons David & Josiah, to be equally divided between them, after the decease or marriage of my widow aforesaid, a certain piece of pasture land, containing about ten acres, being the same piece which I bought of William Greenleaf Esqr, and which is known by the name of Brown’s pasture, also, I give to said David & Josiah after the decease of their said mother, about one acre of meadow land, lying on the north westerly side of the lane, leading from the road to Capt Hammatt’s rope walk & joins the Garden late Isaac Symmes deceased, and which I purchased of Joanna Symmes, his Executrix

4th After my wife’s decease or improvement shall cease, as aforesaid, I Give all the rest & residue of my Estate to be equally divided between my four children, David, Josiah, Rebecca & Elisabeth

Lastly, I constitute and appoint my two sons David & Josiah to be Executors to this my last will & testament. In testimony of this being my last will & testament, I hereunto Set my hand & Seal this 30th day of June A.D. 1797.

Signed, Sealed & declared to be his

last will & testament in presence of                                                                                 Daniel Diman                                   (seal)

                Rossr. Cotton

                Sarah Stephens

                Joseph Bartlett

 

        Furthermore, I do make this a Codicil to the above will viz~

Whereas I the above named Daniel Diman have given the improvement of the whole of my Estate, both real & personal, after my decease to my wife Patience, it is upon condition that my Daughter Elisabeth live with her as she now lives with us, Free from expences, but if she & her mother should agree to seperate, my will is, notwithstanding what is above written, that she have the improvement of one quarter part of my whole estate both real & personal, during her mother’s life, upon condition she should not marry; and my said will in every thing else to stand good according to the true intent & meaning of it. In witnesses, whereof, I have hereunto Set my hand & Seal this 6th day of July A.D. 1797.

Signed, Sealed & declared

                in presence of                                                                                                       Daniel Diman                   (seal)

                Rossr Cotton

                John Bartlett

                Joseph Bartlett

 

Presented for probate on 19 Jan. 1798 by David Diman & Josiah Diman, the Executors therein named, and proved by Rosseter Cotton Esqr. & Joseph Bartlett, two of the witnesses.

 

The Inventory of the real & personal estate of Daniel Diman late of Plymouth, yeoman, was appraised by Thomas Wethrell, Richard Holmes, and Rosseter Cotton on 16 Mar. 1798, and totaled $2630.68, including his dwelling house & lot valued at $850, and several other tracts of land, his real estate totaling $2336.65. David & Josiah Diman, Executors of the estate, gave their oath to the inventory on 16 Mar. 1798.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 36, pp. 285-287, 318-319, from FHL microfilm #0550719.

 

 

Will of Elizabeth Diman of Plymouth, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1804) *

        In the name of God amen. I Elizabeth Diman of Plymouth in the County of Plymouth Semstress being convinced of the certainty of Death & uncertain of the time thereof & being desirous of disposing of What Estate I may leave do make this my last Will and Testament in manner following— After committing my Soul to God who gave it, trusting in the Merits of Jesus Christ alone for Salvation, and my Body to the Earth to be decently buried at the discretion of my Executor hereafter named —

        Item I give to my Mother in Law Mrs. Patience Warren all my Real & personal Estate to her sole use & improvement during her natural Life, except such Articles of my Cloathing as shall hereafter be disposed of — And I do hereby impower my Executor, or in Case of his Death, do impower my Mother in Law to sell either Real, or personal Estate, as he or she may judge necessary for the paying my just debts & funeral Charges, & what she may need for her comfortable support during Life—& if my Father in Law Benja. Warren should survive my Mother in Law Patience Warren —

        Item I give and bequeath to him the said Benja. Warren the Improvement of this my part of the Dwelling house & Lot I now dwell in during his natural Life —

        Item I give to the 3d. Church of Christ in Plymouth a Silver Cup of the same Weight and value as the one given by my uncle Jonathan Diman to the sd. Church of Christ in Plymouth.

        Item I give to David Diman Son of my Brother David Diman & Daniel Son of my Brother Josiah Diman jointly all the real Estate that may remain at my Mother in Law– Patience Warren’s decease, reserving to my Father in Law Benjamin Warren as before expressed the Improvement of the the House & Lot, if he survives my Mother in Law Patience Diman,– And I do hereby Order that David Son of my Brother David Diman & Daniel Son of my Brother Josiah Diman on their coming into possession of my Real Estate to pay to my Sister Rebecca Rider fifty Dollars, & also to pay into the hands of Mr Judson or his Successor in the Ministry fifty Dollars for the use and Benefit of the poor of sd. Church of which he is the pastor, or disposed of at his discretion for the benefit of sd. 3d Church of Christ in Plymouth —

        Item I give to my Sister Rebecca Rider my dark Lutestring Gown & Petticoat.—

        Item I give to my Sister in Law Lois Diman my light blue Calimanco Petticoat And at my Mother in Law’s decs. my large Looing Glass.—

        Item I give to my Sister in Law Sophia Diman my light coloured Lutestring Gown & Petticoat & at my Mother in Law’s decs. my Suit of checkd. Curtains.—

        Item I give to Daniel Son of my Brother Josiah Diman at my Mother in Law’s Decs. my Clock & Great Bible —

        Item I give to Sukey Diman Daughter of my Brother Josiah Diman two silver Table spoons —

        Item I give to Thomas, Son of my Brother Josiah Diman Mr Flavel’s Works —

        Item I give to Elizabeth Daughter of my Brother David Diman my Gold Necklace & at my Mother in Law’s decease a Bed and Beding & what of Household Furniture may remain undisposed of at that time —

        Item I give to Abigail Daughter of my Brother David Diman my Stone Nubs, & one Silver Table spoon. —

        Item I give to each of my Brethern & Sisters Children each a Common Bible.

        Item I give to my Brother David Diman my old Volume of Mr Erskins’ works & the Life of Mr Brainard with the Journal —

        Item I give to my Brother Josiah Diman my New Volume of Mr Erskins Works & the Life of Mr Brainard without the Journal. —

        And I do hereby appoint my Father in Law Benjamin Warren my sole Executor of this my last will & Testament —

        In Testimony of all which I have hereunto set my hand & seal at Plymouth this 17th. day of February one thousand eight hundred & four. —

Signed Sealed & delivered by the said Elizabeth Diman

to be her last Will and Testament in presence of

                Isaac Barrows

                Sally Sturtevant                                                                                                   Elizabeth Diman                              (seal)

                Betsey Bishop

 

Presented for probate on 27 April 1807 by Benjamin Warren, the Executor therein named, and proved by Isaac Barrows and Sally Sturtevant, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Benjamin Warren, the before named Executor.

No inventory of her estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 42, p. 62-63, from FHL microfilm #0550902.

 

 

Will of Jonathan Diman of Plymouth, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1795) *

In the name of God Amen—I Jonathan Diman of Plymouth in the County of Plymouth, Dealer, being of a sound & disposing mind do make and order this to be my last will & testament. First of all I commend my soul to the everlasting mercy of God that give it & my body to a decent Funeral, humbly praying & hoping for a glorious resurrection through Jesus Christ. In the next place, I order my Executors, to discharge my just debts & funeral expences, and the remainder of my estate, I dispose of, as follows

        First, I Give to the First & third church of Christ of Plymouth a Silver cup for the Communion table, of the same size & dimensions that Colo Lothrop gave to the third Church of Christ in said Plymouth

        Second, I Give to my brother Daniel Diman & his two sons, David & Josiah, all my wearing apparell, to be divided between them

        Third—I Give to my beloved wife Rebecca Diman, the improvement of all my real & personal Estate, to be at her disposal, if she continues my widow, ‘till her death, but if she marries again, then to have of the real & personal estate only what the law allows to widows in her circumstances

        Fourth—I Give to my brother Jeremiah Diman’s two sons, Jonathan & Thomas & to my brother Daniel Diman’s two sons, David & Josiah, all my real & personal estate, after my wife’s decease, but if my wife should marry, then I give them immediately, two thirds of my real & one half of my personal estate, and the remainder of my real & personal estate to come to them, after my wife’s decease

        Lastly—I nominate and appoint my wife Rebecca Diman and Ephraim Spooner Esqr and my Brother Daniel Diman, to be my Executors to this my last will & testament.—In testimony & confirmation of all which, I do hereunto Set my hand & Seal, this 11th of September Annoque Domini 1795

                                                                                                                                                Jonathan Diman                              (seal)

Signed, Sealed & Declared to be his

last will & testament in presence

of us

                Joseph Croswell

                David Diman

                Freeman Bartlett

 

Presented for probate on 1 Mar. 1797 by Ephraim Spooner Esqr. & Daniel Diman, two of the Executors therein named, and proved by Joseph Croswell & Freeman Bartlett, two of the witnesses. Rebecca Diman, widow of Deacon Jonathan Diman, late of Plymouth, deceased, declined on 1 Mar. 1797.

 

The Inventory of the Estate, both real & personal of Jonathan Diman, late of Plymouth, Dealer, was appraised by William Goodwin, William LeBaron & Richard Holmes on 5 Apr. 1797, and totaled $1516.12, including his dwelling house, yard, garden & appurtenances valued at $1300. Eph. Spooner, Esqr. & Daniel Diman, the Executors, gave their oath to the inventory in Apr. 1797.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 36, p. 65-67, from FHL microfilm #0550719.

 

 

Will of Seth Doggett of Middleborough, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1813) *

        In the name of God amen, this nineteenth day of July in the Year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred & thirteen, I Seth Doggett of Middleborough in the County of Plymouth & Commonwealth of Massachusetts Yeoman being of a perfect Mind and Memory, blessed be God therefor, calling to Mind the Mortality of my Body and knowing that it is appointed for all Men once to die, do make & ordain this my last will & Testament, that is to say, principally & first of all I give and recommend my Soul into the Hands of God that gave it & my Body to the Earth to be buried in a decent Christian Burial at the Discretion of my Executors nothing doubting but at the General Resurrection I shall receive the same again by the mighty Power of God. And touching such worldly Estate wherewith it hath pleased God to bless me in this Life, I give, demise & dispose of the same in the following Manner & form (viz) –

                Item 1st. I give and bequeath to Daniel Macomber of said Middleborough all my Share in a Wood lot that I bought in Partnership with my Father Thomas Doggett & now is divided between my Sister Experience Doggett containing about ten acres of Land, also about one acre of fresh Meadow it being the whole of my Share and lying at the upper End of my Brother Simeon Doggett’s fresh meadow on Nemasket River to him & Heirs forever also my great Coat I give unto the said Macomber. —

                Item 2d. I give unto Experience Peirce my Niece my Bed & Bedding & also forty Dollars in Money to be paid by my Executor out of the Estate I have given him after my decease —

                Item I give unto Mark Doggett all my wearing Apparel excepting my great Coat which I have given to Daniel Macomber. —

                And I do constitute and appoint Daniel Macomber Executor to this my last will and Testament, thus hoping that this my last Will & Testament will be kept & performed according to the true Intent & Meaning thereof, In Witness Whereof I the said Seth Doggett have hereunto set my hand & Seal the day & Year written

Signed, sealed, published & delivered to be the last Will

and Testament by the said Seth Doggett in presence of us

                William Peirce                                                                                                      Seth Doggett                                      (seal)

                Nathaniel Macomber Junr.

                Benajah Peirce

 

Presented for probate on 16 Nov. 1816 by Daniel Macomber, the Executor therein named, and proved by Nathaniel Macomber Junr & Benajah Peirce, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed.  Letters of Administration were granted to Daniel Macomber, the before named Executor.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 48, p. 230-231, from FHL microfilm #0550905.

 

 

Will of Thomas Doggett of Middleborough, Plymouth County, Massachusetts Bay (1785) *

In the Name of God Amen – I Thomas Doggett of Middleborough in the County of Plymouth do make my Last will & testament in form following and principally, I humbly commit my soul to God who Gave it, trusting in his mercies and Christs merits for salvation, my body to be buried at the discretion of my executor hereafter named in hopes of the Resurrection, touching such worldly estate as it hath pleased God to bless me with, I dispose thereof as followeth. ~

Imprimis – I Give & devise unto my Son Seth Doggett two thirds of the farm on which I now dwell, said two thirds to be Laid out to him adjoining to the Land belonging to the Heirs of Mr. William Read deceased, also one half of the Buildings thereon as all the meadow Lying on Nemasket River, bounded by Land of Simeon Doggett, to him the said Seth Doggett to his Heirs & assigns forever, as also all my right and title to a certain Right of wood Lot I bought of Ebenr. Blackman of said Middleborough Excepting one third of said Lot hereafter disposed of, as also my Cart & plow and Chains together with all my farming tools

Item – I Give & bequeath unto my Daughter Experience Doggett the one third of the Homestead farm whereon I now dwell, one half of the Buildings thereon, and one half of the Orchard on my said farm, also one third of the wood Lot bought of Ebenr. Blackman as abovesaid to her, her Heirs & assigns forever, as also my best Bed & furniture. ~

Item – I Give unto my Daughter Joanna Peirce wife of William Peirce of Taunton in the county of Bristol, the sum of Two pounds, two shillings as Silver was in the year 1775.~

Item – I Give & bequeath unto my Six Grand Children vizt William, Ephraim, Joanna, Samuel, Benajah & Experience, Children of the abovesaid William & Joanna Peirce the sum of one pound & ten shillings a piece as they shall come to Lawful age, but if any of the abovesaid Grand Children shall die before they shall come to Lawful age Leaving neither Child nor Children, then to be paid to the surviving Brothers & Sisters equally between them

Item – I Give & bequeath unto my son Jabez Doggett one half of my Lot of Land in the Sixteen Shilling purchase of Land Lying adjoining to the Land of John Peckins in said Middlebo. To him his Heirs and assigns forever, as also the feather Bed which he now hath of mine in his possession, as also the sum of Thirteen pounds, six shillings & eight pence to be paid as Good as Lawful money was in the year 1765, to be paid to him or his Heirs by my Son Simeon Doggett or his Heirs according to a Lease said Simeon Gave to me October 26th.A.D.1765. ~

Item – I Give & bequeath unto my son Simeon Doggett all my Land undisposed of wherever they shall be found, as also all my Right in the Iron Ore in Apawamsett pond and elsewhere in Middleborough, to him to his Heirs forever. ~

Item – I Give and bequeath unto my Son Seth Doggett and to my Daughter Experience Doggett all the remaining part of my Indoor and to my out door moveable Estate, to be equally divided between them – moreover it is my will that my Son Seth Doggett should pay unto his Sister Joanna Peirce the aforementioned two pounds two shillings, as also my son Seth Doggett shall pay one half of my sum Given to my five-Grand Children being four pounds & ten shillings to be paid to them as they shall come to Lawful age; and that my Daughter Experience Doggett shall pay the sum of four pounds ten shillings unto the afore-mentioned Grand Children in the same manner—and it is my will that my just debts and funeral Charges should be paid of the remaining part of my moveable Estate before it shall be divided between my Son Seth Doggett and my Daughter Experience Doggett – and I do my presence Constitute and appoint my son Seth Doggett Sole Executor to this my Last will & testament – In Witness whereof I have Set my hand and Seal this thirteenth day of August A.D. 1785

Signed Sealed, Published & declared by

the said Thomas Doggett to be his Last

will & testament in presence of us, who                                                                         Thomas Doggett                               (seal)

in his presence subscribed the same as

witnesses hereof

                                Sylvanus Wood

                                Andrew Wood

                                Ichabod Wood

 

Presented for probate on 6 Oct. 1788 by Seth Doggett, the Executor therein named, and proved by Sylvanus Wood and Andrew Wood, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Seth Doggett, the before named executor.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 30, p. 456-458, from FHL microfilm #0550716.

 

 

Will of Joseph Donham Sr., of Plymouth, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1703) *

The Last Will and Testament of Joseph Donham Senior or Plimouth…

I being att present Weake of body and not knowing the Day of my Death yet being of Right mind to Despose of that Little Worldly Estate which god has given me After my Decease…

Item   My Will is... I having Done for and given to my Eldest Sons Eleazer Donham and Nathaniel Donham to the utmost of my Abillity and have given them Double to what I am Able to give to the Rest of my Children formerly therefore I Shall and Doe Give Only to Nathaniel Donham a grant of 10 Acres of Land belonging to my meadow att the South Meadows…

Item   I give and bequeath to my Son Micajah Donham twenty Acres of Land Which he now Liveth on with half an Acre more on the South East Corner of that Lot I now Live on as It is bounded to him…

Item   I give and bequeath to my Son Joseph Donham twenty Acres of Land yt I have Lying on the Eastward of a Pond Called Johns Pond…

Item   I Give and bequeath to my two Youngest Sons Benajah Donham & Daniel Donham fourty Acres of land that I now Live on which Is my homested when they shall Come to the age of one and twenty Years Equally to be Divided between them they allowing to their mother Esther Donham a third of the Rentts and profitts of It Dureing her naturall Life…

Item   I give to my Daughter Mercy Donham a Heifer or Cow With Calf…

Item   I give to my Loving wife Esther Donham all my goods & Chattells and Other Estate Whatsoever for her Support and She to have my Dwelling house for her naturall Life and my wife to have my Homested or farm till my two youngest Sons Benajah and Daniel Donham Shall Come to the age of one and twenty years and then I give to My Loving Wife A third part of all ye Income and profitts of It Dureing her naturall life only My Debts to be Paid Out of the moveables…

And I Doe Institute and Appoint my Loving wife Esther Donham to be My Sole Executrix of this my last Will and testament…

And I Desire Capt James Warren and William Shurtleff to be helpfull to my Wife in the management of her Executrixship ~ And In Witness of the truth to What Is above written of this my Last Will and Testament I have hereunto Sett my hand and Seale this ninth of March one thousand Seven hundred two three…

In the presence of us                                                                                                           Joseph Donham                (seal)

James Warren …

Nathaniel Morton

William Shurtleff

 

On the Sixteenth Day of June 1703 before Nathaniel Thomas Esqr. Judge of the Probate of Wills &c. the With named James Warren Nathanel Morton & William Shurtleff made Oath that they were present and Did see and hear the within named Joseph Donham Signe Seale and Declare the within Written Instrument to be his Last will and testament & that he was of a Disposing mind to ye best of their Judgements…                                                = Nathaniel Thomas Register …

 

The inventory of the Estate of Joseph Donham Senr deceased, was appraised by John Pratt & Benony Lucas on 31 May 1703, but not totaled. Esther Donham, the executrix, gave her oath to the inventory on 17 June 1703.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 2, p. 21-22, from FHL microfilm #0550748.

 

 

Will of Daniel Doten of Middleborough, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1853) *

                In the name of God Amen, I Daniel Doten of Middleborough in the County of Plymouth and Commonwealth of Massachusetts, being in ill health but of sound and disposing mind and memory, do make and publish this my last will and testament, disposing of my worldly Estate and all the property of which I shall die seized in the following manner, to wit,

First. I give and bequeath to my beloved wife Sally Doten the use and improvement of all my estate, after the payment of my just debts and funeral charges, both real and personal for her benefit during her natural lifetime.

Second. My will is, should there be property left, of my estate, after the decease of my wife, as follows— To my daughter in law Polly Mary I give and bequeath the sum of Ten dollars.

Third. I give and bequeath to my beloved daughters Sally C. Smith and Betsey Gibbs in equal and undivided parts the remainder and residue of my Estate both real and personal wherever the same may be found, after the decease of my beloved wife as aforesaid.

Lastly. I do hereby appoint my Nephew Levi Reed the second, Executor of this my last will and testament, directing him to pay all my just debts and the legacies as herein devised.

                In testimony whereof I hereunto set my hand and seal and declare this to be my last will and testament in the presence of the witnesses named below this fifth day of January in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and fifty three.

                                                                                                                                                Daniel Doten                     (seal)

        Signed, sealed, published, and declared by the said Daniel Doten as and for his last Will and testament, in presence of us, who, in his presence and in presence of each other, and at his request have subscribed our names as witnesses.

                Stillman Benson

                James D. Reed

                Harriet Reed

 

Presented for probate on the third Monday of February 1853 by Levi Reed, the Executor therein named, and proved by Stillman Benson and Harriet Reed, two of the witnesses.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Daniel Doten, late of Middleborough, was appraised on 3 Mar. 1853 by Stillman Benson, Ansel Benson, and Mathew Cushing, his real estate valued at $712.000, and his personal estate totaled $213.65. Levi Reed, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on the first Tuesday of May 1853.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 95, pp. 58-60, 187, from FHL microfilm #0555642.

 

 

Will of Elisha Doten of Plymouth, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1753) *

In the Name of the Ever liveing God Amen. I Eisha Doten of of the Town and County of Plimouth In NewEngland; being weak & in low Condition of body, tho’ I thank God, that I am in my perfect mind and Memory, but not knowg how soon it may pleas God to take me Out of this World, & knowing that it is appointed for all men Once to Dye do make this my last Will and Testement as followeth—

First I Commend my soul to God that Gave it, and my Body to be Decently Buried in a Chrestain Manner, hopeing & Trusting in the free Grace and Marcy of God through the Merits of a Blessed Redeemer, that I shall Receive it Again at the Great and Last day, to a Blessed and Happy Resurrection; and as to what Estate it has pleased God to Bless me in this World I Dispose off, as Followeth, Vizt,

I Give to my Loveing Wife Hannah Doten all my whole moveable or personall Estate where soever it is or may be found, this I Give to my said Wife and to her heirs and assigns forever; And as for my Real Estate I Dispose Off, as Followeth (First)  I Give to the heirs of my son Elisha Doten Decd, the One seventh part of all my Real Estate, to them and to their heirs & Assigns forever—

And I also Give to the heirs of my son Samuel Doten One seventh part of all my Real Estate to them & to their heirs and Assigns for ever,

And I Also Give to my son Edward Doten, and to his heirs & assigns forever, the seventh part of all my Real Estate where soever it may be found—

And I Give to my son Paul Doten the seventh part of all my Real Estate To him & his heirs & Assigns forever.

And I Give to my Daughter Lois Harlow wife to Amaziah Harlow One seventh part of all my Real Estate to her & To her heirs and assigns forever. –

And I Give to my son Stephen Doten the One seventh part of all my Real Estate To him & to his heirs and Assigns for ever,   And I Give to my son James Doten the One seventh part of all my Real Estate To him & To his heirs & Assigns forever,   And I Do by these presents Constitute and Appoint my son Edward Doten & Amaziah Harlow to be the Execrs. Of this my last Will and Testament—

In Witness where of I have hereunto sett my hand & seal this twenty fourth day of December, In the year of Our lord One thousand seven hundred & fifty three — 1753 —

Signed and Seald                                                                                                                 Elisha Doten                     (seal)

    In presents of us,

Joseph Morton

Thomas Bartlett

Joseph Warren

 

Presented for probate on 17 July 1754 by the Executors therein named, and proved by Thos. Bartlett and Joseph Warren, two of the witnesses. Administration was granted to Edward Doten and Amaziah Harlow, both of Plimouth, Mariners, the Executors.

 

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 13, p. 312-314, from FHL microfilm #0551540.

 

 

Will of Hannah Doten of Plymouth, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1754) *

We the Subscribers On the Fourteenth of Aprill A.D 1754, Being at the House where Joshua Sherman Dwells in Plimouth, Hannah Doten Widdow being then and there Sick, and apprehending herself near her End, but was of sound mind, said in Our hearing, that she Desired her Brothers Meaning Joshua Sherman and Caleb Sherman, Should have what Estate she should Leave after her Death and the next Day after she Died, Witness Our hands this 18th. Day of Aprill A.D 1754,

Joseph  +  King                     }

        his marke                      }                              Plimo.Sc, May 15, 1754.  The said Joseph

Rebeccah Pearce                 }                              King and Rebecca Pearce Made Oath,

                                                }                              to the Truth of the above Declaration

N.B. the heirs were all                                                        Before me John Cushing Judge of probt.

notified but Did not appear

                                Jno. Cushing

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Hannah Doten, late of Plimouth Widow, was appraised on 7 June 1754 by John Torrey, Nathl. Shurtleff, and Silvanus Bartlett, and totaled £80.8.4½.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 13, p. 292, from FHL microfilm #0551540.

 

 

Will of Isaac Doten of Plymouth, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1770) *

I Isaac Doten of Plymouth in the county of Plymouth mariner being in a weak state of health, and apprehensive my great change is near, but blessed be God of a sound, disposing, mind & memory, do give my soul to God in and thro’ Jesus Christ, hoping for acceptance thro’ him and for eternal salvation; my body I comit to the dust, not doubting it will be raised again at the resurrection of the just, and considering the circumstances of my family I think it my duty to settle my temporal estate and accordingly do now make this as my last will & testament. And my will is that after my just debts & funeral charges be paid by my executor hereafter named, my estate be disposed off as followeth.—

Item. I give to my dearly beloved wife Mary Doten, the use & improvement of my estate both real & personal, the whole of it, during her natural life to be used & improved for her comfortable support, and to enable her to bring up the younger children.

Item, My will and pleasure is That at my wife’s decease, if any of my personal estate be left, and all my real estate, be divided among my children and their heirs according to the Law of this province for setling intestate estates;-- Saving to the heirs of my daughter Hope Carver deced, as also my daughter Mary Whitman, having already given them a full proportion of my estate, My will is that they shall have no more of my estate than what I have already given them. –

                                And finally I constitute and appoint my dear & loving wife Mary Doten, sole executrix of this my last will and testament, hereby making void any or all other wills heretofore made by me. Ratifying & confirming this to be my last will and testament. Witness my hand & seal this sixth day of May in the tenth year of his Majesty,s reign A.D. 1770.—

Signed, sealed, published & declared to be his                                                              Isaac Doten.      (seal)

last will & testament in presence of,

                Mary Bartlett,

                Lazarus LeBaron,

                Thomas Foster.

 

Presented for probate on 16 May 1770 by Mary Doten, the executrix, and proved by Lazarus LeBaron and Thomas Foster esqr., two of the witnesses.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 20, p. 367, from FHL microfilm #0550711.

 

 

Will of James Doten of Plymouth, Plymouth County, Massachusetts Bay (1785) *

  In the Name of God Amen—I James Doten of Plymouth, being Sensible of the Certainty of Death & uncertain of the time thereof and being desirous of making a disposition of my Small Estate before my departure, being of a sound disposing mind & memory do make this my Last will & testament, hereby Revoking all my Other and former wills

Imprimis—First & principally, I Resign my Soul to God who Gave it, desiring to hope in the merits of the Redeemer of mankind for Eternal Salvation, and my body to be decently buried at the discretion of my Executor herein after named ~

Item—I Give to my beloved wife Bathsheba Doten, after my just debts are paid, all my Estate both Real & Personal for her to improve her Life time, and to dispose of if necessity Requires, but if any Estate be Left after her death, after paying her funeral Charges and her Debts, allowing her to Give her wearing Cloaths & whatever was Given her by her father to Such of her Relations as she thinks proper—the one half of ye. Remainder both Real and Personal I Give to James Doten the third Son to Stephen Doten the Other half to be equally divided between the three Sons of the said Stephen Doten Sons, or their Heirs –

Item—I hereby appoint my Brother Stephen Doten to be my Sole Executor of this my Last will & testament – Witness my hand & Seal at Plymouth this twenty Second day of September 1785. ~

Signed, Sealed & delivered & declared

to be the Last will of sd Doten in presence                                                                     James Doten                      (seal)

of ~

                Stephen Churchill

                William Hueston

                Stephen Churchill junr

 

Presented for probate on 7 Aug. 1786 by Stephen Doten, the Executor therein named, and proved by Stephen Churchill and Stephen Churchill junr, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Stephen Doten, the before named Executor.

 

Jesse Harlow, Sylvanus Harlow and Stephen Churchill, all of Plymouth, Gentlemen, were appointed to appraise the estate of James Doten, late of Plymouth, Gentleman, deceased, on 7 Aug. 1786. The Inventory of the estate of Capn. James Doten, dated March 1787, totaled £620.11.11¾, including his dwelling house and garden valued at £100, a piece of land adjoining North Street valued at £105, and 1/3d of the Schooner Serious and 3/8ths of the Schooner Swallow, together valued at £204.5.10. Stephen Doten, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 3 Apr. 1788.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 30, pp. 10-12, 324-325, from FHL microfilm #0550716.

 

 

Will of James Doten of Plymouth, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1817) *

                Be it remembered that I James Doten of Plymouth in the County of Plymouth being of sound mind and memory do make this my last Will and Testament in manner and form following that is to say—

                First I give and devise to my Wife Elizabeth Doten all my Estate both real & personal of every name & nature, which I may possess at my decease, she paying out of said Estate to my Children or their Heirs the following Sums, viz.

To my Daughter Hope the Sum of one Dollar—to my Son James the Sum of one Dollar—to my Son Isaac the Sum of one Dollar—to my Son John the Sum of one Dollar—to my Daughter Elizabeth the Sum of one Dollar—to my Son Daniel the Sum of one Dollar—to my Daughter Mary the Sum of one Dollar—to my Son Thomas the Sum of one Dollar  to my Daughter Lucy one Dollar—to my Daughter Lois one Dollar—Eleanor my Daughter one Dollar—

                And I do hereby appoint my son Daniel Doten sole Executor of this my Last Will and Testament, he paying all my just Debts & funeral Charges out of my said Estate, & I do hereby revoke all former Wills by me made ~~

        As Witness whereof I do hereunto set my hand & seal this tenth day of June in the Year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred & seventeen—

signed sealed published and delivered by the above

named James Doten to be his last Will & Testament

in the presence of us who at his Request & in his presence

have hereunto set our Names as Witnesses to the same

Moreover it is also my Will that my Wife Elizabeth Doten shall have the sole & entire disposal of the abovesaid Estate, which she may be possessed of at her Decease.—

        Solomon Churchill

        Th Drew                                                                                                                         James Doten                      (seal)

        Joel Perkins

 

Presented for probate on 30 Aug. 1817 by Daniel Doten, the Executor therein named, and proved by Thomas Drew and Joel Perkins, two of the witnesses.

 

 

Will of John Doten of Plympton, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1746) *

In the Name of God Amen, the twenty Ninth day of April One thousand seven hundred & forty Six in the Eighteenth year of the reign of our Sovereign Lord George the Second of Great Britain & King — I John Doten of Plimton in the County of Plimouth in the province of the Massachusets bay in New England Husbandman, Being Sensible of the Frailty and the uncertainty of Human life — I do there fore Ordain this my last will and Testament —

Imprs. I Commit my Soul to God, who gave it & my body to the Earth to be Buried in a decent Christian manner by my Executor hereafter named—  My Temporal Estate & Goods God hath Bestowed upon me my will is they be imployd & disposed of in the manner following —

Item I Give to my beloved wife Hannah Doten all that household Goods of What kind soever that she brot. to me— I also Give my said wife the use of my Now dwelling house & one third part of the profits of my homestead which I am now possessed of dureing her widowhood –

Item I Give (after my decease) unto my Grandson Edward Doten Eldest son to my Son John Doten the improvements & profits of two third parts of my homestead, and the reversion of sd. Homstead (viz) all the Lands belonging to my sd homestead, & buildings fences & fencing Stuff timber standing or lying upon it with all the priviliges & appurtenances thereunto belonging at the End of my sd. wives widowhood or at her decease I Give and bequeath to my sd. Grandson Edward Doten to him his heirs & Assigns forever, and in like manner I Give to my said Grandson the Second Share in the Sixth lot in South Meadow Sedar swamp—

Item I appoint & will that my Abovesd. Grandson do pay out such Legacies unto such of my Children as Shall be hereafter mentioned, as I Shall Appoint viz— Five pounds old tenour unto my daughter Mehitable Lucas the wife of William Lucas within One whole year after he shall come into the possession of the above premisses—

Item, One pounds old tenour unto my son Jacob Doten within the Space of One year after he Shall come to Enjoy ye. above granted premisses—

Item, That he pay unto my daughter Susanna Finney the wife of John Finney the sum of twelve pounds old tenour at the Expiration of One year and half after he comes into possession of the Above premisses—

Item, That he pay unto my daughter Lydia Lucas the wife of John Lucas the sum of ten pounds old tenour at the Expiration of two whole years after his possession of the above.

Item my personal Estate I Give one third part to my loveing wife to be at her own dispose, and proper use.—

Item, The remainder I will to be Equally divided between my Sons & daughters at my decease.

Item, For the faithfull Executing of this my last will and Testament I do appoint my eldest son John Doten Executor to this my last will, & do revoke & Make Void all wills by me Made at any time heretofore In Witness Wherof I have hereunto Set my hand & Seal the day & year within written—

Signed Sealed & published by the within

Named Jno Doten to be his last will &                                                                             John Doten                        (seal)

Testament Before us who Subscribed

our Names as Witnesses of the Execution

therof in sd. Testators presence—

George Barrows junr.

Joseph Shaw

Othniel Campbell

 

Presented for probate on 14 July 1747 by John Doten the Executor, and proved by George Barrows Jur. and Othniel Campbell, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to John Doten of Plimton, the Executor, on 14 July 1747.

 

Vol. 10, p. 472-473

The Inventory of the Real & Personal Estate of Mr. John Doten of Plimton, was appraised by Nathaniel Fuller, Abel Crocker, and Jonathan Shaw Junr, on 1 Aug. 1747, but not totaled. John Doten, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 3 Aug. 1747.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 10, pp. 452-454, 472-473, from FHL microfilm #0551535.

 

 

Will of John Doten of Plympton, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1748) *

In the Name of God Amen I John Doten of the Town of Plymton and County of Plimouth in the province of the Massachusetts Bay in New england Husbandman being Convinced of the Certainty of Death and of uncertainty of the Time when and being throu gods goodness at this Time of a good Disposeing mind and memory Do make this my Last Will and Testement as Followeth in the first place I Commit my Sole to god Who gave it and my body to the Earth To be Buried in a Decent Christen manner at ye Discretion of my Executor hereafter named and as to my Temporal Estate Which it has plesed God to Bless me with all my Will is that it Be Improved & Disposed of in ye folowing mannar & after my Just Debts and funeral Charges paid— —

Imprimis I give to my Beloved Wife Lydia Doten one third part of my Real and personal Estate During the Time of here Widdowhood—and then To Return to my Children Hereafter namd. To be Divided amongst them In ye saim manner the oather two Thirds are.—

Item, I give unto my Son Edward Doten 2—5th parts & an half of Two thirds part of my real & personal Estate to his heirs & assigns forever—

Item, I give unto my Son Ebenezer Doten one fifth part & an half of two thirds parts of my real and personall Estate to his heirs & assigns forever—

Item, I give unto my Daughter Elisebeth Fuller the Value of one fifth part of two thirds part of my real & personall Estate to her heirs and assigns To be paid to her in money or out of my personal Estate one fifth pounds old tennour To be paid twelve months after my Decease and the Remanding part To Be paid to her yearly at 50-old Tenor a year Till ye whole Be paid & my Will is that my Son Edward Doten and my Son Ebenezer Doten pay the aforesd Sumes To my Daughter Elesebeth Fuller Equally Betwene them—

Item I give unto my Son Nathanil Doten on fifth part of Two thirds parts of my Real and personal Estate To his heirs and assigns forever

Further my Will is That if my Son Edward Doten or Ebenezer Doten Should Dye Without Jouse[?] that the part of my real Estate which they then posess Shell Belong to the Surviveing brother of the two To his heirs and assigns forever furthermore I Do by these presents Constitute and appoint Ebenezer Spooner of plimouth in ye County of Plimo Cordwinder Sole Executor To this my Last will & Testement in Testimony whereof I have hereunto Set my hand and Seal this Ninteenth Day of January AD one thousand Seven hundred and forty Eight—

Signd Sealed and Declared in                                                                                            John Doten

presents of us—

William Lucas

Elisha Wyton

Rabecca Robins

 

Presented for probate on 3 Apr. 1749, and proved by Willm Lucas and Elisha Wyton.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of John Doten, late of Plympton, was appraised by Abell Crocker, Benja. Fuller, and Elisha Whiten on 7 Apr. 1749, and totaled £2137.17.2 old tenour, including his homestead valued at £848, and out land meadow, wood & Cedar swamp valued at £471. Ebenezer Spooner, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 12 Apr. 1749.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 12, p. 102-103, from FHL microfilm #0551539 (will), and Vol. 11, p. 185-186, from FHL microfilm #0551537 (inventory).

 

 

Will of Neriah Doten of Plymouth, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1738) *

In the Name of God amen. I Neriah Doten of Plymouth in ye County of Plymth. in New-England Cordwainer being Sick & apprehending myself to be near my last change & being of Sound disposing Mind do Make my last Will & Testament as follows —

Imprimis I Commend my Soul to God in and thro. Christ humbly hoping that he will Recieve ye Same to himself in Glory—And my Body I Commit to ye Earth to be decently Interred therein at ye Discretion of my Executors hereafter named ~~

Itm my Will is that all my just Debts & funeral Charges be first Paid out of my Goods Chattels Rights or Credits that I am in ye actual Possession and may die seized And ye Remainder (if any there be) I Give & Bequeath unto my Hond. Mother Mrs Martha Doten to her & her Heirs & to their only only proper use Benefit & Behoof forever

Itm I Give & Bequeath unto my Brother Jabez Doten of Plymouth in ye County aforesd Joyner All the Right Title & Interest that I now have or might by any way or means have in the Part of ye Estate that was my Honourd. Fathers Isaac Dotens deceased & is now Settled on my sd Mother & in her Inmprovemt. for and during her natural Life Which sd Right I Give to him ye sd Jabez his Heirs & assigns forever –

Itm I do by these Presents Constitute my sd Mother Martha & Brothr. Jabez Doten to be Sole Executors of this my last Will & Testament hereby Revoking all and every Will if any I have heretofore made and in Confirmation of these Presents I have hereunto Set my Hand & Seal this twenty Second day of June in the twelfth Year of ye Reign of Our Sovereign Lord George ye Second by the Grace of God of Great Britain France & Ireland King &c. annoq. Dom: 1738.

Signed Sealed Published Pronounced &

Declared to be ye last Will & Testament                                                                        Neriah Doten                    (seal)

of the Within Testator by himself

In Presence of us.  John Doten

Benjamin Holmes – James Hovey

 

Proved on 4 Dec. 1738 by Benjamin Holmes and James Hovey.

Letters of Administration granted on 5 Dec. 1738 to Mrs Martha Doten, Mother of the deceased, Jabez Doten, the Brother of the deceased having refused the Executorship.

 

Mr. Thomas Holmes, Mr. Saml. Nelson, and Mr. John Atwood, all of Plymouth, were appointed to appraise the estate of Neriah Doten, late of Plymouth, on 4 Dec. 1738. The Inventory of the estate of Neriah Doty, late of Plymouth, was not dated, but totaled only £37.6.6, including a small parcel of land and meadow at Plympton valued at £15. Martha Doty, the executrix, gave her oath to the inventory before Nehemiah Doty on 18 May 1739.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 7, p. 455-456, from FHL microfilm #0550513 (will), and Vol. 8, p. 65, from FHL microfilm #0551531 (inventory).

 

 

Will of Stephen Doten of Plymouth, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1830) *

In the name of GOD Amen. I Stephen Doten of Plymouth in the County of Plymouth and Commonwealth of Massachusetts Yeoman, do make and ordain this Instrument to be my last Will and Testament In the first Place I commend my Soule to GOD who gave it and my Body to a decent burial Humbly Praying for a glorious Resurection in Jesus Christ. First after my just Debts are Paid I give and bequeath my Worldly Estate as follows. First I give and bequeath to my beloved Wife Abigail Doten the use and Improvement of one third part of my Real and Personal Estate in Plymouth aforesaid or elsewhere for her to improve during her natural Life Said Estate to be improved in Common and undivided with my Children hereafter named and the Same is given to them. 2d. I give and bequeath to my two Daughters Mary Doten and Esther Doten my Dwelling house in which I now Dwell with my house Lot on which it stands and a way Round Said house. Also, my Garden as staked out near Said house only Excepting to my Wife the improvement of one third Part of Said Premises during the term of her natural Life. Also I give and bequeath to my said two Daughters Mary and Esther the whole of my furniture in my said Dwelling house their mother to Improve one third Part of it during the term of her Life.

3d. I give and bequeath to my Son Joseph Doten all my Lands on the Westerly side of the Sandwich Road bounded by the house lot and Garden down to the doubles Brook being all the Land I own joining together on that Side of Sandwich Road, excepting my Wifes improvement of Dower in the same. 4th, I give and bequeath to my Son Stephen Doten and my two Daughters Mary Doten and Esther Doten and to my Grandson James Isdell Clark all the Residue of my Real Estate Consisting of mowing Lands Pasture Lands, and Wood Lands lying in Plymouth aforesaid or elsewhere, they Paying a Legacy of Twenty Dollars to my three Grandchildren Samuel W. Lewis, Jesse J. H. Lewis and Marcia Lewis, that is a legacy of Twenty Dollars to each of them makeing Sixty Dollars in the whole to said three Grandchildren and a Legacy of Fifty Dollars to my Son Paul Doten – these Legacies to be paid to said Paul Doten and my said three Grandchildren Lewis’s after my Wifes Decease my said Wife is to have her improvement of Dower in Common with my Son Stephen and Daughters Mary & Esther and Grand Son James Isdel. I give and bequeath all my neat Stock horse &c. and all my out of Door Personal Estate to my two Sons Stephen Doten and Joseph Doten excepting the improvement of one third part thereof to my Wife during her natural Life and I order and Direct that if either of my children bring any accounts against my Estate it Shall be paid out of their own shares of my Estate which I have given them in this my last will.    Lastly, I nominate and appoint my Son Stephen Doten to be the Executor of this my last will and Testament.— In testimony whereof I the said Stephen Doten have hereunto set my hand and Seal this Twenty third day of April AD one thousand Eight hundred and thirty

                                                                                                                                                Stephen Doten                                  (seal)

Signed Sealed and Declared to be his last Will and Testament in

Presence of us

John B Thomas

Roland E Cotton

Rossiter Cotton

 

Probated on 21 May 1831, and proved by Roland E Cotton and Rossiter Cotton, two of the witnesses. Letters of administration granted to Stephen Doten, of Plymouth.

 

Lemuel Leach, Elkanah Finney, and Ichabod Morton, all of Plymouth, were appointed to appraise the estate of Stephen Doten, late of Plymouth, yeoman, on 16 May 1831. Ichabod Morton was a Justice of the Peace. The Inventory was dated June 1831, his real estate totaled $3230.00, including his dwelling house & lot valued at $175, his homestead lot of 12 acres valued at $850, and several other parcels of land, and his personal estate totaled $201.40. Stephen Doten, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 13 Aug. 1832.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 70, p. 111-113 (will), from FHL microfilm #0555260, and Vol. 72, p. 365-366 (inventory), from FHL microfilm #0555261.

 

 

Will of John Dotey of Plymouth, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1701) *

The Last Will & Testament of John Dotey Senr of Plimouth. I being Sick & weake of Body & not knowing how it may Please God to deal with me yet being of disposing mind & memory do dispose as followeth of my Worldly Estate which god has Given me Imprimis I Give To my Eldest Son John Dotey a hundred Acres of upland at Doteys Plains And thirty acres of upland at Indian Pond and a Grant of four acres of meadow. Item I Give to Sarah my Wife The third of ye Income of profits of my farme and one Roome in my Dwelling house during her Widdowhoode further I Give to my Wife Two Cows & one Great Trunk and an iron pott & one Feather bed with furniture belonging to it.

I Give to my four youngest Sons Isaac Dotey & Samuel Dotey Elisha dotey and Josiah Dotey all my Homestead Housing & upland belonging to my farme whereon I now Live And Ten acres of Meadow at Doteys Meadow more or less I further Give to my four sons Isaac Samuel Elisha & Josiah All my whole Stock undisposed of vizt oxen Cows & Sheep & Cattell of all sorts not disposed of With all my Implements of Husbandry provided ye Debts being first paid. Item I Give to my Daughter Elizabeth Moss a two year old Heiffer Item I Give to my Daughter Martha A Feather Bed With furniture belonging to it Item I Give ye Qarter Part of my Ketch to my four youngest Daughters Martha Sarah Patience and Desire Item I Give to Martha one Pewter Platter Item I Give all ye Rest of my Houshold Stuff one third part to my Wife & the Remainder to my four youngest Sons vizt Isaac Samuel Elisha & Josiah Dotey And I do make & Appoint my loving wife Sarah Dotey to be ye sole Executrix of this my last Will and Testament And I desire my Loving Brother John Rickard to be helpfull to my sd Wife in the management of it This I do acknowledge to be my last Will and Testament whereunto I have set my hand and Seal this fifteenth April 1701

                                                                                                                                                The Mark  X  of John Dotey Senr                     (seal)

Signed Sealed & Delivered In ye presence of

William Ring

Eleazer Ring

William Shurtliff

 

Plimouth ye third day of June 1701 Before Wm Bradford Esqr Appeared William Shurtliff William Ring and Eleazer Ring ye witnesses to ye within written Will and made oath that they were present & saw and heard John Dotey ye Testator within named Sign Seal & declare ye within written Instrument to be his last Will and testament And that to the best of their Judgment he was of sound disposing mind & memory when he did ye same.

                Attest Saml Sprague Register

 

Memorandum That on ye day abovesd ye Sarah Dotey Relict of ye sd John Dotey deceased & sole Executrix of ye within written Will before Probate & allowance of ye same declared that she did & doth Reserve to her self the benifit of ye law Respecting her dower or thirds in ye Housing & lands of ye sd Deceased any thing to ye Contrary thereof Contained in sd Will.

 

Sarah Dotey, the wife and Executrix, was granted letters of administration on 3 June 1701.

 

May ye 17th 1701 An Inventory of ye Estate of John Dotey of Plimouth deceased.

[Totaled £163.03.1]

Memorandm that on ye 3rd day of June 1701 Appeared Sarah Dotey relict & widdow of ye sd Jno Dotey deceased & Executrix of his last Will & Testament & made oath before William Bradford Esqr yt ye above and within written is a true Inventory of ye goods Chattels Rights & credits of ye sd deceased so far as she knows & that if more come to her knowledge it shall be Added Attest Saml Sprague registr

An Inventory Taken by us Nathll Southworth

under written                        John Rickard

                                                John Sturtevant

 

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 1, p. 341-343.

 

 

Will of Cornelius Drew of Kingston, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1810) *

In the name of God Amen I Cornelius Drew of Kingston in the County of Plymouth being of sound & disposing Mind & Memory, though afflicted with bodily weakness & Infirmity, thinking it proper to settle my worldly concerns do make & ordain & appoint this my last will and Testament. –  first committing my Soul to God as unto the hands of a faithful Creator hoping in his Mercy through the Merits of my blessed Saviour for a happy Immortality; & my Body to the Dust in a sure & certain hope of a resurrection thereof by the mighty Power of God— And as to my worldly Goods –

        I give and bequeath unto my beloved Wife the use & Improvement of all my Estate, both Real & personal, that may remain, after all my just Debts and incidental Charges are paid; --I also give her a right to sell or dispose of any part of the same if necessary for her support & comfort during her natural Life. I also give her a right to dispose of any part that may remain at her decease if she think proper either by Will or otherwise—

        And if any of my Estate shall remain at the Decease of my Wife it shall be equally divided betwixt my two sons Edward Drew & Cornelius Drew until my Wife shall make other disposition by Will or otherwise according to the right given her in which Case the shall inherit according to such Disposition.

        And I do request my Brother Seth Drew & I do hereby appoint him to be my sole Executor to his my last will & Testament – In Testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand & Seal this fourteenth day of July in the Year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred & ten --                                                   1810

signed sealed in presence of us who

have subscribed our Names as Witnesses                                                                       Cornelius Drew                                (seal)

        Ellis Bradford

        David Beal junr.

        Zenas Drew junr.

 

Presented for probate on 4 April 1815 by Seth Drew Esqr., the Executor therein named, and proved by David Beal junr. and Zenas Drew junr., two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Seth Drew Esqr., the before named Executor.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 47, p. 123-124, from FHL microfilm #0550904.

 

 

Will and Codicil of Gilbert Drew of Vernon, Sussex County, New Jersey (1850) *

In the name of God Amen. I Gilbert Drew Senior of the township of Sussex and State of New Jersey being week in body but of Sound and disposing mind memory and understanding Do make and publish this my last Will and Testament in manner and form following hereby revoking any former Will and testament made by me

                First, I order and direct my Executors hereinafter named to pay and discharge all my just debts and funeral expenses, as soon as conveniently may be after my decease

                Secondly I give and bequeath unto my Son Gilbert Drew Junior the Sum of Twenty dollars to be paid to him by my Executors within one year after my decease

                Thirdly It is my will and I do hereby order and decree that my said Executors as soon as conveniently and advantageously may be, and upon reasonable notice to all my children, sell at Public Sale all my goods and chattels and real estate and to make and execute good and sufficient deed or deeds of conveyance for the same. And that all the rest and residue of my said Estate including the proceeds of said Sale, be divided into twelve equal shares, or parts – And I do hereby give devise and bequeath one equal share or twelfth part to each of the following of my said children that is to say: to William Drew, Naomi the wife of John Glan of the County of Steuben in the State of New York, Ebenezer Drew, Eliza the wife of William Green, Susan the wife of Samuel Sprague, Jane the wife of Robert Chardavoyne, Isaac Drew, and Samuel Drew, to have and to hold the said one equal share or twelfth part to them severally and to their respective heirs Executors Administrators and assigns forever

                Fourthly – I give devise and bequeath one other equal Share or Twelfth part of the said residue to the children and heirs at law of my deceased daughter Sarah late the Wife of Barnet Rutan of the State of New York to have and to hold the same to them and to their heirs Executors administrators and assigns to be equally divided between them Share and share alike

                Sixthly, I give devise and bequeath one other equal Share or twelfth part of the said residue of my estate to the children and heirs at law of my deceased daughter Polly late the wife of John Vail to have and to hold to them and to their heirs, executors administrators and assigns, and to be equally divided between them share and share alike, but on the express condition that my estate if not to be charged for any labor done for me by the Said Polly or her children as I consider that what I have paid & expressed in Support of her and her said children a full compensation for all her and their labor for me –

                This share is Subject nevertheless to be a deduction of the Sum of thirty dollars by me paid for the funeral expenses of the Said Polly. And further it is my will and I do hereby order and devise that the share of the part of the division of my estate that is hereby given to Phebe the daughter of my Said daughter Polly is to be charged with whatever Sum or Sums of money may be due to me at the time of my death from her husband Michael Vangeldeys.

                Sixthly. I do hereby give devise and bequeath To my Said Executors and to the Survivor of them – One other equal share or Twelfth part of the said residue of my said Estate to have and to hold the same to them and to the Survivor of them and to their heirs or the survivor of them, In trust nevertheless and to and for the following special purpose, that is to say – that they will put the sum to use upon good and sufficient security in their name as Trustees, and recive and pay over from time to time as it may accrue the interest thereof to my daughter Hannah the wife of Joseph Ingersoll of the County of Steuben in the State of New York for her sole use and benefit and upon her own receipt or order during her natural life and after her death then to pay over convey and delver the said trust found to her children and heirs at law to be divided between them share and share alike.

                But it is also my Will that if the said Hannah Shall so desire the Said Executors and Trustees or the Survivor of them, are hereby authorized and directed to purchase real estate with the said share or any part thereof And to hold the same in trust, to and for the use and benefit of the said Hannah during her natural life, free from any debts charge or incumbrance of her present or any future husband; and after her death to convey the Same to her said children and heirs at law Share and share alike.

                Seventhly, I give devise and bequeath to my said Executors and to the Survivor of them one other equal share or part of my said estate, In trust nevertheless and to and for the following special purpose that is to Say, that they will put the said share of the said residue to use upon good and Sufficient Securities, in their name as trustees and receive and pay over from time to time as it may accrue, the interest thereof to my daughter Rhoda Ann wife of Benjamin Harrison during her natural life for her Sole use and benefit and upon her own receipt or order and after her death then to pay over Convey and deliver the said trust fund to her children and heirs at law to be equally divided between them share and share alike.

                Eighthly It is my will and I do hereby direct that from each of the said share or parts of the residue of my estate hereby given to either of my said children or in trust for them is to be deducted respectively the amount of money that may be due and owing to me at the time of my death upon bond note or obligations or writings from either of my said children or from the present or any future husband of either of my said daughters without respect to the length of time during which such indebtedness or any part thereof may have existed –

                Ninthly That while the Said residue of the said estate real and personal remain unsold by my said Executors I give devise and bequeath the Same to my said children and grandchildren above named (Except my Son Gilbert), and to my said Executors Trustees as aforesaid, the said residue of my estate in the same shares parts and proportions and in the same right and for the same purpose respectively that the Said Several shares or parts are above given and bequeathed

                Lastly, I do appoint hereby constitute and appoint my sons Isaac Drew and Samuel Drew Executors of this my last Will and testament.— In witness whereof I have hereunto Set my hand and seal the first day of May in the year of our Lord Eighteen hundred and fifty.

                Signed Sealed published and                                                                                            his

Declared by the said Gilbert Drew to                                                                                Gilbert  X  Drew                                (seal)

be his last Will and testament in presence of us                                                                            mark

                Evi A Martin

                G W Houston

                Danl. Haines

 

(Codicil) I Gilbert Drew of Vernon in the County of Sussex do make and publish this codicil to my last Will and testament bearing date the first day of May in the year of our Lord Eighteen hundred and fifty –

                Whereas by my said Will and testament I did give devise and bequeath to my Executors therein named one equal twelfth share or part of the residue of my estate both real and personal in trust for my daughter Rhoda then the Wife of Benjamin Harrison and to be disposed of as therein mentioned for her benefit during her natural life and after her death then to pay over convey and deliver the same to her children and heirs at law to be equally devided between them share and share alike. And whereas my said daughter Rhoda has since the date of the said Will departed this life, I do hereby revoke that clause of the said Will – and I do give devise and bequeath the said one equal twelfth part or share of my estate real and personal to the children of the said Rhoda to be equally divided between them share and share alike Subject to the conditions restrictions and deductions mentioned in the third, Eighth and ninth clause of the said Will

                Secondly, And Whereas by the third clause of my said Will I did give devise and bequeath unto Eliza the wife of William Green one equal share or twelfth part of the residue of my estate, And whereas since the date of the said Will Margaret the daughter of my son Isaac Drew has been delivered of a bastard child and charged Gilbert Green the son of my said daughter Eliza Green with being the father of the said child: I do hereby so far revoke the said bequest and devise to my said daughter Eliza, as that two hundred dollars parcel of the share or part, given to her shall paid and allowed to my son Isaac Drew for and towards the expenses by him incurred and to be incurred in and about the Sickness and lying in of his Said daughter and in and about the maintenance and Education of her Said child. In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal the first day of April in the year of our Lord Eighteen hundred and fifty three—

Signed Sealed published and declared by the said                                                                        his

Gilbert Drew as and for a Codicil to his last will and                                                    Gilbert  X  Drew                                (seal)

testament in the presence of us who have at his request & in                                                     mark

his presence & in the presence of each other Signed the same as witnesses thereto

                Milton Osborn

                Danl Haines

 

Proved by Daniel Haines, a witness to the will and codicil, on 15 Sept. 1855.

 

Sussex County SS Isaac Drew and Samuel Drew, the Executors in the within testament named being duly sworn according to the term did severally depose and say that the foregoing writing contains the true last will and testament and codicil thereto of Gilbert Drew the testator therein named So far as they know and as they verily beleive that they will well and truly perform the same by first the debts of the said decease and then the legacies in said testament and codicil specified so far as the goods chattels and credits of the said deceased can thereunto extend and that they will make and exhibit into the Surrogats office of the County of Sussex a true and perfect inventory of all and singular the goods, chattels and credits of the said deceased that have or shall come to their knowledge or possession or to the possession of any other person or persons for their use and render a just and true account when thereunto lawfully required.

                Sworn and Subscribed before me                                                                     Isaac Drew

at Newton December 19th 1855                                                                                        Samuel Drew

                Danl S Anderson Surrogate

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Sussex County Probate Will Book E, p. 36-45, from FHL microfilm #0960521.

 

 

Will of Hannah Drew of Kingston, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1825) *

        In the name of God Amen –      I Hannah Drew of Kingston in the County of Plymouth & state of Massachusetts, Widow, do make, ordain & declare this instrument to be my last Will & Testament revoking all others

Imprimis. All my debts of which there are but few none of magnitude are to be punctually & speedily paid & the Legacies herein after bequeathed are to be discharged as soon as circumstances will permit & in the manner here after directed.

I give to my son Seth Drew the sum of three hundred & fifty five dollars.

I give to my son Francis Drew the sum of three hundred & fifty five dollars.

I give to my daughter Hannah Cook the sum of three hundred & fifty five dollars.

I give to my daughter Sylvia Cushman the sum of five dollars.

All which said sums above named amounting to the sum of one thousand & sevinty dollars are to be paid by my Executor out of or from the Money or Public or Private Securities Given me by my late Husband in his last Will & Testament      And my further will is that all the other property Given me by my last Husband except as above provided be divided among my four Children Exactly according to the last Will & Testament of my last Husband—And I hereby appoint my son Seth Drew my Executor of this my last Will & Testament.              In witness of all & each of the things herein contained I have hereunto set my hand & seal this twelfth day of October in the Year of our Lord One thousand Eight Hundred and twenty five 1825.

                                                                                                                                                Hannah Drew                                   (seal)

Signed sealed & declared by the above named Hannah Drew to be her last will & Testament in presence of us who in the presence of the Testator & of each other have hereunto subscribed our names as witnesses

                                                                                                                Robert Cook Jr

                                                                                                                Levi Prince

                                                                                                                Fanny Cobb

 

Presented for probate on 21 May 1832, and proved by Robert Cook Jr. and Levi Prince, two of the witnesses.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 72, p. 214-215, from FHL microfilm #0555261.

 

 

Will of Job Drew of Halifax, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1832) *

Be it known, that I Job Drew of Halifax in Plymouth County do make this my last Will and testament viz:

        First, I give to my son Ezra One undivided quarter part of all my real estate, and this devise is intended by me in remuneration for and in consideration of various sums of money which he has furnished me, and which have greatly contributed to the comfort of me and his mother in our old age.

Second.  I give and devise all the rest and residue of my estate, real and personal to my good wife Thankful, having the utmost confidence in her discretion, kindness, and prudence to do what she may think is just and right, should she leave any thing at her decease, among my other children, Job Drew Jr, Fanny Sampson, Sophia Thomson and Sukey Ford..— I hereby appoint Thomas P. Beal of Kingston, my Executor, and direct that my body be buried in the Kingston burial ground, where are buried several of my children.

                                In witness of all I Job Drew have hereunto set my hand

                                and seal this twelfth day of May 1832.

                                                                                                                                                Job Drew                                            (seal)

Signed, sealed and published by Job Drew in our presence as his

will and by us subscribed in his presence,

        Thomas P. Beal

        Benjamin Sampson

        Alexander Beal

 

Presented for probate by Thomas P. Beal, the Executor, and approved on 4 June 1833.

The subscribed named as Executor in the will of Job Drew late of Halifax in Plymouth County does hereby decline accepting said trust and renounces the same, leaving it to the Honorable Judge of Probate to commit the Administration of said Decease’s Estate to such person as he may judge proper.

Probate Court                                                                                                                       Thomas P. Beal

Scituate June 4, 1833

 

The subscriber as Attorney to Ezra Drew as by power of Attorney, hereby expresses the assent of said Ezra Drew to the legacy given him in the last will of Job Drew his father proved this day at a Probate Court at Scituate, and consents to receive the same in full of his demands against his said father’s Estate.

June 4, 1833                                                                                                                         Thomas P. Beal Attorney

                                                                                                                                                                     to said Ezra

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 74, p. 223-224, from FHL microfilm #0555262.

 

 

Will of Job W. Drew of Kingston, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1869) *

Be it remembered that I, Job W. Drew of Kingston in the County of Plymouth State of Massachusetts, being of sound and disposing mind and memory do make, publish, and declare this my last Will and Testament in manner following viz.

First. After the payment of all my just debts and funeral expenses I give and bequeath to my beloved wife Mary A. Drew, the use and improvement during her natural life of all my estate both real and personal of every name and nature (with exceptions hereafter to be named) including a Policy of Insurance upon my life, with the right to sell and dispose of any part thereof that may be necessary for her comfortable maintainance and support, also with the right to sell and dispose of any part thereof should it be for the interest of my estate to do so.

Second. After the decease of my said Wife I give and bequeath to my children Thomas B. Drew, Martha E. Waterman & Juliet M. Washburn all of my estate remaining, to them, their heirs in three equal Shares.

Third. I give and bequeath to my Son in law, Martin P. Washburn my Colt and Heifer in token of my appreciation of his kindness and attention.

Fourthly. I hereby appoint my son Thomas B. Drew sole Executor of this my last Will and Testament, hereby revoking and declaring void all former Wills by me heretofore made.

                                                In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand this sixteenth day of October, A.D. 1869.

                                                                                                                                                Job W. Drew.

Signed, Published and declared by said Job W. Drew as and for his last Will and Testament in presence of us, who in his presence, and in presence of each other have hereunto set our names as Witnesses.

Joseph Stetson  +  Solomon Davie  +  Eliza W. Davie.

 

Presented for probate on the second Monday of Nov. 1869 by Thomas B. Drew, of Plymouth, with Mary A. Drew of Kingston and Henry Mills of Plymouth as sureties. Letters Testamentary were granted to Thomas B. Drew of Plymouth on 8 Nov. 1869.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 106, p. 386, from FHL microfilm #0555647, and Vol. 124, p. 566.

 

 

Will of John Drew of Halifax, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1742) *

Know all Men By these Presents that I John Drew Senr. of the Town of Hallifax in the County of Plymouth in NewEngland being at this present time Labouring under many Bodily infirmities yet of a Sound & disposing Memory & Understanding Blessed be God for the same & being sensible of my own mortality & knowing that it is Appointed for all men once to die, do make & Ordain this to be my Last Will & Testament, To Remain firm & Inviolable for ever. Imprimis, I Give & Bequeath unto my well beloved Wife, sarah Drew, the use & improvement of my dwelling house, Barn, & out houses & also the Use, improvement & income of All the improved Lands & meadows belonging to my homestead which Lye there Joyning together during her Widdowhood. Item, Whereas I have already Given unto my Eldest Son John Drew, by Deed of Gift A Certain Parcel of Land, I Give unto him more all my Tools & Tackling both for Carpentry & husbandry: Item: Whereas I have already Given unto my son Thomas Drew by deed of Gift one Quarter part of my Homestead: my will is that he shall be content therewith as his part of my Estate. Item: I Give & Bequeath unto my Daughter Eliza. Drew forty pounds. Item. Whereas I have already Given unto my daughter Jemima Read sundry my will is that she shall be Content therewith as her part of my Estate. Item Whereas I have Already Given unto my daughter Mary Bennet Sundry things my Will is that she shall be Content therewith as her part of my Estate  Item I Give & Bequeath unto my Grandson Peter Drew all my Homestead Land & meadow with Buildings thereon, Reserving unto his Grandmother the Use & improvement thereof as is before Expressd. it is to be understood that sd. Homestead shall not include any part of that hundred Acre lot, which did formerly belong unto John Hascal & Isaac Walker  Item I Give & Bequeath unto my Grandson silvanas Drew all my part of that hundred Acre lot which was formerly John Hascal & Isaac Walkers Right in the 26 mens Purchase. Item. I Give & Bequeath unto my Grandson Isaac Bennet Ten pounds, Item I Give & bequeath unto my son thomas Drews Eldest son Ten Pounds. Item. I Give & Bequeath unto my Grandson Charles Read Ten Pounds. the same to be paid unto them or Each of them when they Arrive at the Age of Twenty one years, Item my will is that my Grandson Peter Drew shall pay as A Legacy unto my daughter Elizabth. Drew the forty Pounds which I have given unto her & to be paid in Manner Following that is to say Ten Pounds thereof when he arrives to the Age of twenty one Years And the Remainder to be paid Ten pounds A Year until the whole is paid. & my will is that my Two Grandsons Peter Drew & silvanus Drew shall pay as A Legacy unto my Grandson Isaac Bennet the Ten pounds I have Given him when he Arrives to the Age of Twenty one Years & unto my son thomas Drew Eldest Son the Ten pounds I have Given unto him when he Arrives to the Age of Twenty one Years, & unto my Grandson Charles Read the Ten pounds I have given unto him, when he Arrives to the Age of Twenty one Years, it is to be Understood that the several sums which I have Given & Legacys ordered to be paid shall be Equal in value to bills of Credit of the old form & Tenour. Item. I Give & Bequeath unto my Grandson Peter Drew my longest Gun & sword. Item I Give & Bequeath unto my Grandson Silvanus Drew my shortest Gun, Item my will is that my Indoor moveables & stock of Creatures after my Just Debts & funeral Charges are paid out of the same, be disposed of in Manner following that is to Say my Loving wife sarah Drew shall have the use & improvement thereof during her Natural life & after her Decease I Give the same to my Daughter Elizabeth Drew, & my will is that my aforesd. Wife shall Take the motherly Care of my sd. Daughter Elizth. Drew during the Time she lives unmarried, if she so Cause to Live with her mother, & my will is that if it should so happen that there is any part of my Estate which I have not herein Particularly Given Away & disposed of I Give the same unto my aforesd. Wife & my Will is that my loving Wife sarah Drew shall be Executrix of this my Last Will & Testament Thus hoping that this my last will & Testament will be kept & performed according to the true intent & meaning thereof. I Commit my body to the dust, & my Soul to God that Gave it in Witness whereof I the aforesd. John Drew senr. have hereunto set my hand & seal this Seventeenth day of April one Thousand seven hundred forty & two

Signed sealed & Declared                                                                                                  John Drew                         (seal)

by the abovenamed John

Drew senr. to be his Last

Will & Testament in the

presence of us

George samson

Zachariah Soul

Jacob Tomson

 

Probated on 10 July 1745, and proved by George Samson, Zachariah Soul, and Jacob Tomson, the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Sarah Drew of Hallifax, widow of the Deceased, Executrix, on 10 July 1745.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 9, p. 506-508, from FHL microfilm #0551533.

 

 

Will of Seth Drew of Kingston, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1823) *

In the name of God Amen I Seth Drew of Kingston in the County of Plymouth and State of Massachusetts being of sound & disposing mind and memory blessed be the Almighty God for the same do make and publish this my last Will and Testament in manner & form following. I give my soul to God as into the hands of a faithful creator, hoping in his mercy through the merits of Jesus Christ my Saviour for a happy immortality and my body to the dust to be buried in a decent christian manner in sure and certain hope of a resurrection thereof; And as to such goods and estate wherewith, it has pleased God to bless me in this life, I give and bequeath as follows (viz.) I give to my wife the use and improvement of all my estate both Real and Personal during her natural life. I give her a right to sell or dispose of any part of my personal estate for her support & comfort if necessary. I also give her a right to dispose of any part of my personal estate by gift in her life time or by will at her decease and at the decease of my wife, my executor hereafter named shall take into hands all my estate both real and personal and shall divided the same in the following manner—

I give unto my oldest son Seth Drew all the land in my possession which I bought of Joshua Adams. I also give him the land I purchased of Eli Cook formerly the dower land of Mary widow of Joshua Adams Senior deceased with a right of a convenient way through my other land if necessary.

I give unto my son Francis Drew my dwelling house where I now dwell together with the out buildings and the land I bought of Benjamin Chipman being one acre more or less- I give him my wood lot I purchased of Bildad Washburn adjoining the land of Nathan Lucas and others.
I give unto my daughter Hannah Cook the land which I bought of Deborah Adams and now in my possession.

I give unto my daughter Sylvia Cushman the use & improvement of all my land or interest laying in Rocky-nook so called consisting of the land I purchased of William Cobb and Cynthia Cobb with the dwelling house and other buildings thereon, a blacksmith shop and water privileges which I purchased of her husband Thomas Cushman all which she shall use and improve for her support & maintenance during her natural life, and at her decease the same shall be divided equally amongst her living children and if the said Sylvia Cushman shall decease before her mother, all her share given her in this instrument shall descend and be divided amongst her children the living as equally as circumstances will admit.

I give unto my two daughters Hannah Cook and Sylvia Cushman all my household furniture and indoor moveables (excepting books) to be divided equally betwixt them and my will is that whatever of my personal estate may remain and not heretofore disposed of more then sufficient to discharge all just debts and incidental charges shall (together with my books) be equally divided amongst my four children.   And I hereby appoint my son Seth Drew my sole executor of this my last Will and Testament. And I do hereby revoke and annul all former wills and testaments by me made.

In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this    day of      in the year of our Lord One Thousand eight hundred and twenty three.1823.

Signed sealed published and declared

by the above named Seth Drew to be his

last Will and Testament in the presence of us                                                                                Seth Drew           (seal)

who have hereunto subscribed our names as

witnesses in the presence of the testator

                Samuel Glover

                Job Cushman

                Fanny Cobb

 

Plymouth Ss. Court of Probate June 21st 1824. The foregoing Instrument purporting to be the last Will and Testament of Seth Drew late of Kingston in said County, Esquire deceased being presented to me for probate and having examined one of the witnesses thereto subscribed and no objection being offered to the probate thereof, I decree that said instrument be allowed as the last Will and Testament of said deceased and the same is approved as such accordingly.

                                                                                                                                                Wilkes Wood  J. Prob.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 58, p. 192-193, from FHL microfilm #0550910.

 

 

Will of Thankful D. Drew of Kingston, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1833) *

I Thankful D. Drew of Kingston Plymouth County widow do make this my last Will viz.

First— I give to Sarah L. Griffin Daughter of my son Job Drew the sum of Five Dollars –

Second— I give my son Ezra Drew six hundred Fifty Dollars

Third— I give to my Daughter Fanny Sampson Fifty Dollars, and one third of my wearing Apparel and Books.

Fourth— I give to my Daughter Sophia Thompson one Third of my wearing apparel and Books

Fifth— I give to said Fanny and Sophia all my household Furniture, except my Iron Ware Brass Kettle – tubs one large and two small silver tea spoons.

Sixth— I give all the rest and residue of my Estate of every kind real or personal to my daughter Sukey Ford forever and I hereby appoint her husband Elisha Ford Executor to this my Will & order my pecuniary Legacies to be paid in six months after the Probate of this my Will hereby revoking all former wills by me made.

In witness of all which I have hereto set my hand and seal this twentieth day of December in the year of our Lord eighteen hundred and thirty three.

                                                                                                                                                Thankful D. Drew                            (seal)

Signed sealed and declared, by Thankful D. Drew to be her Will in our presence & we in her presence and in presence of each other subscribed as Witnesses

                                                                                                                                                                                Joseph Sampson

                                                                                                                                                                                James N. Sever

                                                                                                                                                                                Thomas P. Beal

 

Presented for probate on the Third Monday of Jan. 1841 by Elisha Ford, the Executor therein named, and proved by Joseph Sampson, James N. Sever, and Thomas P. Beal, the Witnesses whose names are subscribed thereto.

 

Elisha Ford was granted administration of the estate of Thankful D. Drew, late of Kingston, widow, on 18 Jan. 1841, with Thomas P. Beal and Samuel Adams, all of Kingston, as sureties.

No inventory of her estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 83, p. 3-4, from FHL microfilm #0555267, and Vol. 1G, p. 369.

 

 

Will of William Drew of Kingston, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1795) *

        In the name of God Amen. – I William Drew of Kingston being of sound & disposing mind & memory tho’ afflicted with bodily weakness & infirmity thinking it proper to settle my worldly concerns, do make, ordain & appoint this my last will & testament, first committing my soul to God, as into the hands of a faithful creator hoping in his mercy thro’ the merits of my blessed savior for a happy immortality – and my body to the dust in a sure and certain hope of a Resurrection thereof. – and as to my worldly Goods

Imprimis – I Give & bequeath to my Son William, all my Interest in the Schooner Nymph & all the bills I have paid on her, if she should be owned by me at my decease if not any other fishing that I may have any part in at that time, I also give him the flake yard I own with all the buildings except the easterly part of the ware house which I sold to Madam Hannah Thomas, with a right of continuing the same where it now stands, she paying three shillings pr. year as ground rent for the same & take it away when she pleases. – I also give my said son William my building yard from the middle of the great gutter at the northerly side of my Store down stream ‘till it comes to Mr. Sever’s bounds with the work house thereon. – I also give my said Son William the Dwelling House & Lot where he now lives, it being the House & Lot that formerly belonged to Heirs of Abigail Brewster deceased. I also give my said Son William, all my account against him, all the above bequests I make to my said son on condition that he pays into the hands of my Executor two hundred Dollars & cancells all book accounts he may have against me at my decease, at which time he will come into possession of the premises

        Item.– I Give & bequeath, unto my Daughter Katharine the sum of Forty five pounds to be paid her at my decease as an equivalent for what I have done for my married Daughters in providing furniture &c for them – or she may recieve the Interest of the above sum or any part thereof, ‘till she chuses to take ye. whole of the principal or untill the decease of her mother when it must be Settled

        Item.– I Give & bequeath to my beloved wife the use & improvement of all my Estate, both real & personal not herein before disposed of & that may remain after the payment of my just debts & necessary charges, during the time she shall continue my widow, with power to sell & dispose of any personal estate that she may find necessary for her comfortable support & subsistence, while she may continue my widow

        Item – at the decease or marriage of my said widow, that my Executor herein after named, take all the estate that she may leave both real & personal, into his own hands & cause the same to be divided among my daughters in the following proportions–vizt–to my Daughter Katharine one full seventh part thereof to my Daughter Jenny twenty pounds less than one seventh part or she may take a full seventh part on paying to my Executor twenty pounds, this I do because I sold her husband the house & Lot where they now live for much less than it was worth at that time – to my Daughter Julia one full seventh part– to any unmarried daughters that may survive their mother, one full seventh part with the addition of Forty pounds for house furniture &c, which sum or sums my Executor will charge to the estate before he proceeds to a division of the same.– It is to remembered Katharine is before provided for in this & therefore not considered as unmarried in this provision

        Item. – Give & bequeath to my two Grandsons Charles Thomas & George Thomas one full seventh part to be equally divided between them, when they shall arrive each to the age of twenty one years, on the conditions herein after mentioned vizt– I request my Executor to keep this share or seventh part in his own hands for the use of my said Grandsons, wholly under his own control & if either of them should not arrive to that age, the survivor is have the whole and my Executor shall pay Interest, Income or improvement that he may make on said share annuall into the hands of my Daughter Dorothy Thomas or into the hands of some person in Trust for her at his discretion, wholly for her use, untill my two said Grandsons shall each arrive to the age of twenty one years & cause the said share to be paid to his or their hands as the case may be, taking good security for the payment of Lawful Interest on the same to their mother annually for her own special use during her life, one half of each severally, the above Interest or income to my Daughter Dorothy both from my Executor or her Sons shall be paid only on this special condition, that she gives up any right of Dower she may have as the widow of Charles Thomas in the house and Lot that I have herein given to my Son William, and my will is that if any of my Daughters shall die unmarried, that their share be divided among my remaining Daughters – and I do request my brother Seth Drew, and I do hereby appoint him to be my sole Executor to this my last will & testament, with full power to do and transact all & every thing respecting the premises. In Testimony whereof I have hereunto Set my hand & Seal this twentieth day of February in the Year of our Lord one thousand Seven hundred & ninety Five –

Signed and Sealed in the presence of

                Zenas Drew                                                                                                           William Drew                    (seal)

                Abijah Drew – Richard Everson

 

The will of William Drew late of Kingston Esquire was presented for probate on 6 July 1795 by Seth Drew the Executor therein named, and proved by Zenas Drew and Abijah Drew, two of the witnesses.

 

James Drew, Zenas Drew and John Adams junr., all of Kingston, Gentlemen, were appointed to appraise the estate of William Drew, late of Kingston, Esqr., on 13 July 1795. The Inventory of the Estate of William Drew, late of Kingston, Esqr., not dated, totaled £2001.0.11, including his real estate which totaled £1232. Seth Drew, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 24 Aug. 1795.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 35, pp. 289-291, 403-404, from FHL microfilm #0550718.

 

 

Will of Azuba Dunbar of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1816) *

In the name of God amen. I Azuba Dunbar of Bridgwater in the County of Plymouth Widow being weak in the Body but of sound mind & memory do this twentieth day of December Anno Domini one thousand eight hundred & sixteen make & publish this my last Will & Testament in manner following that is to say –

        Imprimis I give to my Daughter Lydia Dunbar one half of all my property of whatsoever name or nature. —

        Item I give to my Daughters Dinah Dunbar & Kezia Wood the other half of all my property of whatsoever name or nature, to be equally divided between them to come in possession immediately after my decease

        To my other five Children I give nothing more, Than they have received already

        And lastly I do constitute and ordain my Neighbour & Friend Solomon Alden sole Executor of this my last Will & Testament.—

Signed sealed published pronounced & declared

by the said Azuba Dunbar as & for her last Will &

Testament in the presence of us who at her request                                                                 her

& in her presence hereunto set our Names as Witnesses to the same                       Azuba  X  Dunbar                               (seal)

                Solomon Alden                                                                                                             Mark

                Solomon Alden Junr.

                Lewis T Alden

 

Presented for probate on 7 July 1817 by Solomon Alden Esqr., the Executor therein named, and proved by Solomon Alden Junr. and Lewis T Alden, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Solomon Alden, the before named Executor.

 

Ezra Conant, yeoman, Rufus Wood, Gentleman, and Solomon Alden junr., yeoman, all of Bridgwater, were appointed to appraise the Estate of Azuba Dunbar, late of Bridgwater, on 7 July 1817. The Inventory, dated 9 July 1817, totaled $354.50, which included some livestock, but no real estate. Solomon Alden Esqr, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 5 Jan. 1818.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 48, p. 533-534, from FHL microfilm #0550905, and Vol. 49, p. 178-179.

 

 

Will of Joseph Dunbar of Halifax, Plymouth County, Massachusetts Bay (1779) *

I, Joseph Dunbar of Halifax in the County of Plymouth in the State of the Massachusetts Bay in America, yeoman, being of sound & disposing mind and memory, Sensible of my Frailty and mortality do make and ordain this to be my Last will and testaments—First and principally I commit my immortal Spirit to God who Gave it, and my body to the Dust, to be decently buried according to the discretion of my Executor hereafter mentioned, and as to my outward Estate I Dispose of the same in the following manner vizt

Imprimis—I Give and bequeath unto my well beloved wife Hannah one third part of my Indoor moveables for her own use and disposal

Item—I Give and bequeath unto my son Daniel two thirteenth parts of all my Real Estate if he shall ever come to Live & dwell in this State to him his heirs & assigns forever

Item–I Give and bequeath unto my two Sons John & Jesse two thirteenth parts of all my Real Estate to Each of them, to them their heirs and assigns forever

Item–I Give and bequeath unto my Son Hosea one & half a thirteinth part of all my Real Estate to him his heirs and assigns forever

Item–I Give and bequeath unto my two Grand Children the two Children of my Son Benjamin deceased, two thirteenth parts of all my Real Estate, to them their heirs and assigns forever ~

Item–I Give and bequeath unto my three Grand Children the Children of my Son Joseph deceased, two thirteenth parts of all my Real Estate, to them their heirs and assigns forever ~

Item–I Give and bequeath unto my Grand Child the Child of my daughter Ruth Mahurin Five pounds

Item—I Give and bequeath unto my Daughter Joanna Five pounds

Item—I Give and bequeath unto my Four Sons vizt Daniel, Hosea, John & Jesse after my Just debts and Funeral Charges are paid, the one half of all my moveables not yet disposed of to be equally divided

Item—I Give and bequeath unto my two Children–the Children of my Son Benjamin deceased, one Eighth part of all my moveables as before not yet disposed

Item—I Give and bequeath unto my three Grand Children the Children of my Son Joseph deceased one Eighth part of all my moveables after my Debts & Funeral Charges are paid not yet disposed of

Item–I Give unto my daughter in Law Hannah Dunbar my Son Benjamins widow Liberty of a Room in my House to Live ~

Item–I Give unto my Grand Child Ruth Mahurin one Eighth part and to my daughter Joanna One Eighth part of all my moveable Estate not yet disposed of after my Just debts and Funeral Charges are paid

Lastly—I Do nominate and appoint my Son Hosea Dunbar Sole Executor of this my Last will and testament hereby Revoking and making null and void all Other wills by me heretofore made Ratifying and Confirming this and no Other to be my Last will and Testament, In Testimony whereof I have hereunto Set my hand and Seal this Sixteenth day of February Annoq. Domini One thousand, Seven hundred and Seventy nine

Signed, Sealed and Declared to be                                                                                               his

his Last will & Testament in presence                                                                           Joseph  X  Dunbar               (seal)

of            Noah Cushing                                                                                                                 mark

                John Leach

                John Leach junr

 

Presented for probate on 4 March 1782 by Hosea Dunbar, the Executor therein named, and proved by Noah Cushing, John Leach and John Leach junr, the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Hosea Dunbar, the before named Executor.

 

Ebenezer Tomson Esqr., Noah Cushing, yeoman, and Jacob Tomson, yeoman, all of Halifax, were appointed to appraise the Estate of Joseph Dunbar, late of Halifax, yeoman, on 4 Mar. 1782. The Inventory of the Estate of Joseph Dunbar, late of Halifax, dated 15 Mar. 1782, totaled £536.8.3, including his real estate valued at £415.10. Hosea Dunbar, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 1 Apr. 1782.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 28, pp. 264-266, 288, from FHL microfilm #0550715.

 

 

Will of Samuel Dunbar of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Massachusetts Bay (1780) *

  In the name of God Amen – On the fourth day of May in the year of our Lord One thousand, Seven Hundred and Eighty, I Samuel Dunbar of Bridgwater in the County of Plymouth and State of Massachusetts Bay in New England, yeoman, being (through divide Goodness) in a Good State of health and of a Sound and disposing mind and memory proceed to make this my Last will and testament, and first of all, I Commit my body to the Dust to be decently buryed at the discretion of my Executor hereafter named; and my immortal Soul I Commend into the hands of God who Gave it, trusting in the merits of Jesus Christ my Saviour for pardon Grace and Glory and as to my worldly Interest I dispose of it in the following manner, vizt– my will is that all my Just Debts and funeral Charges be paid by my Executor hereafter named

Item – I Give and bequeath to my well beloved wife my Horse & Chaise One Cow all my Indoor moveables and Houshold furniture, and one half my money and Debts, and also all my wearing apparell of all Sorts, to be entirely at her dispose, and the Reason that I dont herein Give to her my said wife the privilege and use of part of my Land & buildings is because that She hath Got Security for the same Otherways

Item – I Give and bequeath unto my Eldest Son Samuel his Heirs and assigns all my Right and Interest in the Old or Great Cedar Swamp in Bridgwater and the Reason I Give him no more at this time is because he hath already had his Share of my Estate

Item – I Give and bequeath unto my three Daughters, Vizt Mehitabel Melatiah and Hannah and also my Grand Daughter Sarah Snow One Spanish milled Dollar to each of them or the value thereof to be paid to each of them by my said Executor within Six months after my decease, this with what I have already Given to my sd Daughters is Considered as their Share of my Estate

Item – I Give and bequeath unto my two Sons vizt. Asa & Simeon five pounds to each of them to be paid to them by my said Executor in Spanish milled Dollars at Six Shillings a piece or Other Current money equivalent, within twelve months after my decease, this with the Education they have had, is Estimated their part of my Estate ~

Item – I Give and bequeath unto my five Sons vizt– Robert, Daniel Peter, Thaxter, & Caleb, one Spanish milled Dollar to each of them to be paid to them by my said Executor within twelve months after my decease, this with what I have already Given them, is all I Can Give them of my Estate

Lastly – I Give and bequeath unto my Son Barnabas, his Heirs and assigns the one half of my money and Debts (the Other half being Given to my wife) also all the Rest of my Estate not herein disposed of both Real & personal and I do hereby nominate & appoint him my sd Son Barnabas Sole Executor upon this my Last will & testament, In witness whereof I Do hereunto Set my hand & Seal the day & year aforesaid

Signed, Sealed, Published pronounced and De-

clared by the sd Samuel Dunbar to be his Last                                                              Saml. Dunbar                    (seal)

will & testament in presence of

Edmund Alger junr – Joseph Alger junr – Isaac Alger

 

Presented for probate on 1 May 1786 by Barnabas Dunbar, the Executor therein named, and proved by Edmund Alger junr. and Isaac Alger, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Barnabas Dunbar, the before named Executor, with Edmund Alger junr. and Isaac Alger, all of Bridgwater, yeomen, as sureties.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 29, p. 519-522, from FHL microfilm #0550716.

 

 

Will of Annis Dunham of Middleborough, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1729) *

In the Name of God amen: Aprill: 17 [seventeenth] day one thousand seven hundered and twenty Nine I Annis Dunham of Middleboro in the County of Plimouth in New England Wife to Ephraime Dunham Being Very Sick and weekly in Boddy but of perfect Minde and Memory thanks be To God theirfor Calling to Minde My one Mortallity Knowing that it is appointed for all men once to Dye Do make and ordain this my Last Will and testyment that is to Say princepally and first of all I Give and Recomend my Soul into the Hands of God my Maker And my Boddy to the Earth to be Buried in a Decent Christian Maner at the Decretion of my Executors Not Douting but I Shall Receive the Same a gain at the Generall Reserrection by allmyty God

and as touching Such worldly Estate I Give Demise and Dispose of the Same in the following Manner

Imprimis I Give unto my only son Jonathan Dunham All that My portion or My part of that Estate Which formerly belonged unto My Honered Father John Smith Late of Middleboro Deceased Which He Dyed Seazed of: to my above Said Son His Aires Executors adminestrators or assings To Remain for the proper use and bennyfit of my above Said Son at the age of twenty one years

Item I give to my Loveing Husbon Ephraime Dunham the use and Improvement of My above Said Estate untill my above Said Son is twenty one years of age

and I allso impower My above sd Husbon Either to sell or Dispose of the above Said Estate for His own advantage and the advantages of my Son all ways Reserveing to my Son the princaple or the vallew their of to be Secureed in the Law: for Him and if in Case My Son should Dye with out a Lawfull air begotten by Him Self that the above said Estate I freely and absolutely Give to my Loveing Husbon Ephraime Dunham to Him his aires Executors admintrators and assigns whome I make in that Case and ordain to be my Sole Executor Willed and bequeasid Rattyfieing and Conferming this and No Other to be my Last will and testement in Wittness whare of I Have here unto Set my Hand and Seal the Day and year above Written

Signed Sealed published

pronounced and Declared

to be the Said Anis Dunhams

Last Will and Testament                                                                                                   Anes Dunham                                   (seal)

in the presents of us

Thomas Knowlton

Ruth Bennett

Samuell Bennett

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Docket #6830, the will filed but never recorded for probate.

 

 

Will of Ebenezer Dunham of Carver, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1821) *

                                In the name of God Amen. I Ebenezer Dunham of Carver in the County of Plymouth, Commonwealth of Massachusetts Yeoman being weak in body but of sound & perfect mind and memory blessed be Almighty God for the same, do make and publish this my last Will and Testament in manner and form following, that is to say,

1st                           I give and bequeath unto my beloved wife Priscilla Dunham the one half of all my Household goods & furniture.

2d                            I give and bequeath unto my two oldest sons Ebenezer Dunham & B  Morton Dunham the sum of fifty Dollars each.

3d                            I give and bequeath unto my Oldest Daughter Hannah Shaw the sum of eighteen Dollars and thirty cents.

4th                           I give and bequeath to my second Daughter Priscilla Dunham single woman the sum of one hundred Dollars.

5th                           I do also give and bequeath to my two Youngest sons Joseph Dunham and Benjamin Dunham the sum of two hundred & fifty Dollars, each, to be paid them when they shall respectively arrive at twenty one years of age.

6th                           I also give and bequeath to my three youngest Daughters Fanny Dunham, Lydia Dunham and Abigail Dunham the sum of one hundred Dollars each to be paid them when they shall respectively arrive at eighteen years of age.

7th                           I also will that my said wife Priscilla receive out of the profits of my real Estate the sum of sixty Dollars to be paid her annually during her natural life on condition that she shall not demand her right of Dower in the same.

                                I also will that my two youngest sons Joseph & Benjamin receive their living out of my Estate and that they remain with their three oldest Brothers during their minority, and that the labour of the said Joseph and Benjamin during their minority accrue to the benefit of their said three oldest Brothers, and also that my said three youngest Daughters receive their living & remain with their said three oldest Brothers in like manner until they respectively arrive at the age of eighteen years; which said several legacies and sums of money I will and order shall be paid to the said several Legatees, within six months after my decease except those which I have otherwise ordered which shall be paid as above directed. As to all my real Estate consisting of my Homestead farm on which I now live, situate in Carver together with my farm on which my sons now live together with all my out lands, meadow’s swamps &c lying within the County of Plymouth which shall remain after the above said legacies & sums of money shall be shall be faithfully discharged and all my just Debts and funeral charges paid, I give and devise to my three oldest sons Ebenezer Dunham B Morton Dunham & Harvey Dunham their heirs and assigns forever to be equally divided between them when the said Harvey shall arrive at twenty one years of age.

                                And lastly as to all the residue of my personal Estate money, goods, Chattels &c of what kind soever I give and bequeath to my said three sons Ebenezer Dunham B Morton Dunham and Harvey Dunham.

                                And I do hereby appoint my beloved wife Priscilla Dunham and my oldest son Ebenezer Dunham joint Executors of this my last Will and Testament, hereby revoking all former wills by me made.

                                In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal the fifth day of April in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and twenty one.

Signed, sealed, published & declared

by the within named Ebenezer

Dunham to be his last Will and

Testament in the presence of us                                                                                        Ebenezer Dunham                           (seal)

who at his request and in his

presence have hereunto subscribed

our names as witnesses to the same.

   Ebenezer Shurtleff

   Ichabod Dunham

   Thomas Hammond

 

Presented for probate on 20 Aug. 1821 by Ebenezer Dunham, the Executor therein named, and proved by Ebenezer Shurtleff, Ichabod Dunham and Thomas Hammond Esqr, the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Ebenezer Dunham, the before named Executor.

 

Ichabod Dunham of Plymouth, yeoman, Benjamin Ward, Gent., and Ira Murdock, Gent., of Carver, were appointed to appraise the estate of Ebenezer Dunham, late of Carver, deceased, on 20 Aug. 1821. The Inventory, dated 26 Feb. 1822, totaled $4324.07, including his real estate valued at $3260. Ebenezer Dunham, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 16 July 1827.

 

Benjamin Ward and Ira Murdock, of Carver, and Ichabod Dunham, of Middleboro’, were appointed to appraise the estate of Joseph, Benjamin, and Abigail Dunham, minors, of Carver, on 16 July 1827. The inventory was dated 6 Sept. 1827, and was valued at $600, which included a lot of wood-land called George’s Meadow Neck valued at $250, and a piece of fresh meadow called the Pratt Meadow at the Moses Wright Place valued at $350. Joseph Shaw, Guardian for Joseph, Benjamin & Abigail Dunham, gave his oath to the inventory on 17 Sept. 1827.

 

Ichabod Dunham, Benjamin Ward and Ira Murdock, all of Carver, freeholders, were appointed to set off to Priscilla, the widow of Ebenezer Dunham, late of Carver, now Priscilla Robbins, her dower in the real estate of her late husband on 16 July 1827. The division was dated 6 Sept. 1827, and approved on 17 Sept. 1827.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 53, p. 546-549, from FHL microfilm #0550907, and Vol. 64, pp. 159, 256-258.

 

 

Will of Ephriam Dunham of Middleborough, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1753) *

                In the Name of God Amen, This tenth Day of December Annoque Domini One Thousand Seven Hundred & fifty three 1753,   I, Ephriam Dunham of Middleborough in the County of Plimouth in the province of the Massachusetts Bay in NewEngland, Yeoman do Make & Ordain this my Last Will and Testament,

Imprimis. I Give my soul to God that Gave it, and body to the Ground to be Buried after my Death by my Executorix Hereafter named & as Touching Such worldly Estate as it hath pleased God to Bless me with I Give and Dispose of the same in the following manner & form

First  I Do hereby Appoint & Impower my Dearly=beloved Wife Elizabeth to be the Sole Executrix of this my last Will and testamt. & I do put into her Hands my Homstead to Improve for her Maintenance so Long as she remains my Widdow, if she reaily finds she wants the whole of the Improvement of it to maintain her selfe, but if she finds that she can doe with less then the whoe incomes of Yet Yearly, then My Will is for her to Give my son Jonathan so much of the incomes Of it Yearly as she can spare. Also I Give Liberty to my Well=beloved Wife So Long as she remains my Widdow to improve apart of my Dwelling House Namely the Largest room, which is towards or faces (towards) the south, and Also the Other Little room towards the Westerly part of the House, and also Liberty of one Half of the Celler & Half the Garrett and Liberty of the Oven in my son Jonathan’s part, and also the Liberty of using Half of the Barn. Also I Give unto my Wife all my Cattle, & Horses, and my cart and my Chains, & plows & Axes, & all my Other tools (Excepting) such as I shall Hereafter name which I Give to my son Jonathan, to innable her to pay my Just Debts. Also I Give my Wife all the personal Estate that she brought with her to me forever, to give it to whome soever She pleases, but my Other Moveable Estate which she has not a Necessity to Sell to pay Debts I would have her Give my son Jonathan, if she should Marry Again, and I would recommend it to my Wife to Let my son Jonathan have the use of my cart and Any of the Other tools so Long as she shall keep them in her Hands from time to time as she can Spare them & as he shall stand in Need of them, And if my Wife Marryes Again, She is to Quit My Whole Estate, but in case she shall after that be a Widdow Again, then shei is to have it in her power to returne to my reall Estate & Draw one third part of the incomes of the same (During her Widdowhood, and if she stands in Need of it she shall have the Liberty of Living in One of the room’s of My House Again.

Secondly  I Give unto my son Jonathan my whole Homestead, House And Barn & the previledges belonging to it, that is to say, I Give it to him, During his Naturall life, and then to his Heirs & Assigns forever, tho’ my Wife Elizabeth is to Have the Improvemt. Of it so Long as she remains my Widow as is before Expresed, Excepting one Half of my Orchard, and part of my House Namely the Back room, in the Easterly part of the House, & half of the Garrett or chamber & half of the Celler, & Half of the Barn. I Give my son Jonathan Liberty to Improve these immediately after my decease, and I also now Give him one of the best Axes & one How & one Scieth.

Finally  I Hereby revoke and Dissanull all former Wills made by me, and ratify and Confirm this as My Last Will and Testament

In Witness whereof I have Hereunto Sett my Hand & Seal this tenth Day of December A1753, as before written.

Signed, Sealed, Published, Pronounced, & Declared

by the said Ephriam Dunham as his Last Will                                                                Ephriam Dunham                            (seal)

   & Testament in presence of us

Nathan Bassett,  Benja. Bassett

Stephen  +  Mackomber

 

Presented for probate on 1 Mar. 1756 by the Executrix therein named, and proved by Nathan Bassett, Benjamin Bassett, and Stephen Mackomber, the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Elizabeth Dunham Widdow of the said deceased, the Executrix, on 1 Mar. 1756.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 14, p. 40-41, from FHL microfilm #0551542.

 

 

Will of Ichabod Dunham Jr. of Plymouth, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1826) *

Be it remembered that I Ichabod Dunham Jr. of Plymouth in the County of Plymouth being weak in body but of sound and perfect mind & memory, blessed be almighty God for the same, do make & publish this my last Will & Testament in manner & form following –

        First I give to my beloved mother Betsey Dunham one bedstead & feather bed.—

        2d. I give & bequeath to my honoured father Ichabod Dunham one sward plough.

        3d. I give & bequeath unto my beloved wife Maria Dunham all my goods & chattels whatsoever name or nature except what I have willed above to my father & mother. I also give unto my beloved wife Maria Dunham all my notes & demands, whatsoever name or nature. I also appoint my beloved wife Maria Dunham sole executrix of this my last Will & Testament, hereby revoking all former wills by me made.

In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand & seal this sixth day of March One thousand eight hundred & twenty-six

        By my wife’s paying all my honest & just debts—                                                                              his

Signed, sealed, published & declared                                                                                              Ichabod  X  Dunham Jr.                     (seal)

by the above named Ichabod Dunham Jr.                                                                                                    mark

to be his last Will & Testament in the presence of us who at his request &

in his presence have hereunto subscribed our names as Witnesses to the Same

        John Savery  —  William Murdock  —  Zilpha Murdock

 

Presented for probate on 15 May 1826 by Maria Dunham, the Executrix, and proved by William Murdock and Zilpha Murdock, two of the witnesses, and she was directed to sell at public or private auction the live stock of the deceased. On 15 May 1826 Maria Dunham, Executrix on the estate of Ichabod Dunham Jr., late of Plymouth, informed the court that the estate was insolvent to pay its debts.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 60, p. 339-340, from FHL microfilm #0550911.

 

 

Will of Israel Dunham of Carver, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1810) *

In the name of God, Amen I Israel Dunham of Carver in the County of Plymouth in New England, being in advanced age of life but of full understanding, blessed be God therefor Considering human frailty and mortality do make this my last Will and Testament as follows.  That is to say I resign my soul to God my Creator whenever he shall call me out of this mortal life, hoping for Eternal Life through Jesus Christ, my Redeemer and Sanctifier, and as touching worldly estate, not heretofore disposed of, I give and bequeath in manner following, viz.   1.  I give my son Israel Dunham all my Estate Real and Personal, with his paying as hereafter named.

2. to my son Joseph Dunham One hundred Dollars

3. to my son Benjamin Dunham Eighty Dollars

4. to my son Eleazer Dunham Eighty Dollars

5. to my daughter Hannah Chase Forty Dollars

   these sums to be paid in one year after myself and Wife’s decease –   6. I also will that my son Israel Dunham pay all my just debts and funeral charges of myself and Wife Hannah Dunham.     And I do hereby appoint my son Israel Dunham Executor to execute this my last Will and Testament. In witness whereof I have hereunto set hand and seal, this eighteenth day of June A.D. 1810

                                                                                                                                                Israel Dunham                                  (seal)

Nathaniel Sherman             }  In presence

Thomas Doty                       }   of us

Levi Sherman                      }

 

Presented for probate on 11 Aug. 1828 by Israel Dunham, the Executor, and whereas Nathaniel Sherman one of the witnesses thereunto, is by reason of indispositions unable to appear and give evidence before the Probate Court, a deposition of Nathaniel Sherman was ordered.

 

I Nathaniel Sherman of Carver in the County of Plymouth do testify and say that I saw Israel Dunham sign an Instrument he saith was his last Will and Testament and did declare it to be so in the presence of the subscribing witnesses, I considered him to be of sound mind and memory, capable of disposing of his Estate in the manner and form that he did –  

                                                                                                                                                Nathaniel Sherman

 

Proved by Levi Sherman, one of the witnesses thereto subscribed, on 15 Sept. 1828. Letters of Administration were granted to Israel Dunham of Carver, on 15 Sept. 1828.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 66, p. 283-285, from FHL microfilm #0555259.

 

 

Will of John Dunham of Plymouth, Colony of New Plymouth (1692) *

I John Dunham of Plimouth being now sick and weak in Body but of disposing mind and memory not knowing how soone God may Call me out of this World Do make and ordaine this to be my last Will and Testament in mañer and forme following hereby revoaking and making null all former Wills. My Soul I Give to God Resting upon his said Grace in Christ for ye pardon of all my sins and my body I Give to the Earth out of Which it was taken to be Decently Buried in hopes of a Comfortable Resurrection at the last day and for the Worldly Estate which God hath lent me my will is this to Dispose of it  Imprimis I Give to my beloved Wife Mary Dunham and to my Daughter Mercy Dunham my house I now Dwell in with all my Goods moveables and Chattels whatsoever Except what hereafter in this my Will is Excepted. Also I Give to my said Wife and Daughter Mercy all my Land about two miles off from my now Dwelling house and the orchard there it all containing about Sixteen acres more or less: Also to them I Give one acre of meadow lying at Doties meadows those lands lying within the Township of Plimouth I absolutely will and Bequeath to my said Wife and Daughter Mercy and to the heirs or Assigns of her my said Daughter for Ever. Also forty acres of land lying at Colchester in the Township of Plimouth aforesaid I Give to my said Wife and Daughter Mercy to be equally divided betwixt them But my Will further is that if my Wife need her share of the land for her Support she may sell it for that End which land I value at ten pounds But if my Wife sell not this land at Colchester then my Will is that after her decease my son John Dunham have the one half of it he his heirs & assigns for Ever Desiring and hoping he will be tender and Carefull to help his mother While she Lives the other half of Said lands I absolutely bequeath to my Daughter Mercy her heirs and assigns for Ever Item I Give to my son John Dunham my Best Cloth Coat hereby Signifying that hath already Received his full portion Item to my Son Bartholomew Hamlin and my Daughter Susanna his Wife I Give all the Rest of my wearing Cloaths both Linnen and Woollen from head to foote Item I Give to my son James Hamlin one shilling and to my Daughter Mary his Wife one shilling Item I Give to my Son Robert Barrow one shilling and to my Daughter Lidia his Wife and to the heirs of her Body for Ever thirty acres of Land which I have lying at Monponset in the Township of Plimouth.

And I do hereby appoint my Wife & Daughter Mercy to be Executrixes of this my last Will & Testament And Do Desire and appoint my Loving friends Isaac Cushman and Ephraim Morton junr to be overseers thereof In Testimony that this is my last Will & Testament Reserving Liberty to my self to sell any of my Lands above mentioned before I dye I set to my hand and Seal this Second day of February one thousand Six hundred and ninety one/two

                                                                                                                                                John Dunham                                   (seal)

Signed Sealed and Declared to be

the Last Will & Testament of

John Dunham above named

in presence of

John Cotton

Saml Sturtevant

 

Mr Jno Cotton one of the Witnesses within named made oath in Plimouth Before William Bradford Esqr Dept Governr and Mr Ephraim Morton Associate ye 16th of Aprill 1692 that he was present and saw the within named John Dunham Sign & Seal & heard him Declare the within written Instrument to be his Last Will and Testament And that to the best of his judgment he was of a disposing mind & memory when he so did.

                                                                                                                Attest Saml Sprague Clerk

 

An Inventory of the Estate of John Dunham Senr late of Plimouth Deceased Taken & apprised on ye 16th Day of Aprill 1692 by us whose names are hereunto Subscribed, [not totaled, only personal estate.]

                                                                                                                Ephraim Morton junr

                                                                                                                Thomas Faunce

Mary Dunham Relict widdow of John Dunham late of Plimouth Deceased made oath in Plimouth Aprill 16th 1692 Before William Bradford Esqr Dept Govr and Ephraim Morton Associate that the above written is a true Inventory of the Goods Chattels & Credits of the said Deceased so far as she Knoweth & that when more shall come to her knowledge she will Discover it

                                                                                                                Attest Saml Sprague Cler

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 1, p. 135-136.

 

 

Will of Patience Dunham of Plymouth, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1832) *

I Patience Churchill alias Donham of Plymouth in the County of Plymouth, and Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Widow, and of sound and disposing mind and memory, do make and ordain, this Instrument to be my last Will and Testament – In the first place I commend my soul to God who gave it, and my body to a decent burial. –

In the next place I dispose of my worldly estate as follows, viz: I give and bequeath my whole estate both Real and Personal wherever the same may be found in Plymouth aforesaid or elsewhere to my beloved sister Betsey Peterson widow of Perez Peterson late of Plymouth aforesaid deceased to her & her heirs and assigns ~

In the second place I nominate and appoint William Morey of Plymouth aforesaid to be sole Executor to this my last Will and Testament

In testimony whereof I the said Patience Churchill have hereunto set my hand and seal this eleventh day of February A.D. One Thousand Eight hundred and thirty two, – signed sealed and declared to be her last Will and Testament in presence of us, N.B. “& her” interlined before signing

Rosseter Cotton

Priscilla Cotton                                                                                                                    Patience Churchill                          (seal)

Roland E Cotton

 

The last Will and Testament of Patience Dunham, late of Plymouth, widow, was presented for probate on the first Tuesday of Oct. 1850 by Perez Peterson, who is interested therein, no person appearing to object thereto, and proved by Roland E Cotton, one of the witnesses whose names are subscribed thereto.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Patience Dunham, late of Plymouth, was appraised by Ezra Leach, Ellis Whiting, and Abiather Hoxie, and totaled $15.50, no real estate. Ephraim F. Churchill, Special Administrator on the Estate of Patience Dunham, late of Plymouth, gave his oath to the inventory on the first Tuesday of Oct. 1850, and in his accounting added the amount due the deceased for the proportion of a pension claim due her from the United States of $4386.00.

 

Ephraim F. Churchill, of Plymouth, was appointed as Special Administrator of the Estate of Patience Dunham, late of Plymouth, widow, on 1 Oct. 1850, William Morey who was named as Executor thereof having declined the trust, with Ezra Leach and Ellis Whiting, both of Plymouth, as sureties.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 92, p. 390-392, from FHL microfilm #0555640, and Vol. 1F, p. 13.

 

 

Will of Sarah Dunham of Attleborough, Bristol County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1815) *

In the name of God Amen I Sarah Dunham of Attleborough in the County of Bristol (widow) being weak in body but of a Sound Disposing mind and Memory for which I Desire to bless God – and Calling to mind the mortality of my body, it being appointed for all men once to die Do make and ordain this my Last will & testament Princepally and first of all I give my Soal into the hands of God that gave it, and my body to the earth to be buried in a Decent burial at the Discression of my Executrice here after named, and as to Such worldly Estate as it hath pleased God to bless me with in this world I give and Dispose of in the following manner (viz)

Imprimas I will and Require that all my Just debts funeral Charges and Charges of Administration be paid out of my Estate by my Executrice here after named –

Item I give to my Son Solomon Donham one Dollar as his full portion –

Item I give to my Son John Dunham one Dollar as his full portion –

Item I give to my Son Nathaniel Donham one Dollar as his full portion –

Item I give to my son Joseph Dunham one Dollar as his full portion –

Item I give to my Daughter Anna Smith the wife of Cyriel Smith five Dollars as her full portion –

Item I give to my Daughter Betsey Hise the wife of Otis Hise one Dollar as I have given her Considerable before as her full portion –

Item I give to my Daughter Sarah Wilmarth wife of Nathan Wilmarth one good feather bead and one Coverled as her full portion –

Item I give to my Daughter Lydia Hise wife of James Hise five Dollars and one full [?] table as her full portion. –

Item I give to my Daughter Martha Dunham all my Estate both Real and Personal where ever the Same may be found that is not otherwise given away Requering her to pay all my Just Debts funeral Charges and Charges of Administration out of the Same

And I do here by Constitute and appoint my Daughter Martha Dunham the Soal Executrise of this my Last will & testament hereby Revoking all former will by me made Rattifying this Instrument and this only to be my last will and testament. In witness where of I have hereunto Signed Sealed published and Declared this Instrument to be my Last will and testament this fifth day of June in the year of our Lord Eighteen hundred fifteen. In presence of Elisabeth Perry Benjamin Ingolls, and David Perry who Signed here unto as witnesses at the Same time –

Elesabeth Perry                                                                                                                    Sarah

Benjamin Ingalls                                                                                                                 her X mark

David Perry                                                                                                                           Dunham

 

July 4. 1815 Approved.

 

Proved by Benjamin Ingalls and David Perry, two of the witnesses, on 4 July 1814. Martha Dunham, Singlewoman, was granted administration of the estate of Sarah Dunham, late of Attleborough, with Joseph Dunham and Benjamin Ingalls, yeoman, all of Attleborough, as sureties.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Bristol County Probate File “Sarah Dunham, Attleboro, 1815,” from FHL microfilm #0575131.

 

 

Will of Warren Dunham of Middleborough, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1838) *

                Be it remembered that I Warren Dunham in Middleborough and Commonwealth of Massachusetts being of sound and disposing mind and memory but out of health do make and publish this my Will and testament as follows, viz.

                I give to my wife Lucinda Dunham all my personal estate, and also the use and income of my real estate after paying my just debts and funeral charges out of said real estate until my Daughter Lucinda S. Dunham shall arrive to the age of twenty one years or until she shall marry which ever event shall first happen. And after my said Daughter shall become of age or shall marry, the use and improvement of one half of my Real Estate, so long as she shall remain my widow, provided she shall support and educate my said daughter, my said widow having the benefit of my said Daughter’s services until she shall be of age or marry and I devise and bequeath to my said Daughter her Heirs and assigns all the rest and residue of my estate: And I authorize my Executors herein after named and impower them to sell off and pass deeds of conveyance of so much of my real estate or so much wood and timber off of said estate at public or private sale as shall be necessary to pay my debts and Expences at their discretion.     And I hereby nominate and appoint my said wife and Thomas Southworth Executors of this my Will. Witness my hand and seal this twenty first day of July, Eighteen hundred and thirty eight.

Signed, sealed published and                                                                                            Warren Dunham                              (seal)

declared in presence of us.

                Benjn. P. Wood

                Peter Vaughan

                Cushman Vaughan

 

Presented for probate on the first Tuesday of Oct. 1838 by Thomas Southworth, one of the Executors therein named, and proved by Benjamin P. Wood and Cushman Vaughan, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters Testamentary were granted to Lucinda Dunham and Thomas Southworth, the Executors therein named.

 

Thomas Southworth, of Middleborough, was granted administration with Will annexed of the estate of Warren Dunham, late of Middleborough, yeoman, on 2 Oct. 1838, with Benjamin P. Wood and Cushman Vaughan, both of Middleborough, as sureties.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Warren Dunham, late of Middleborough, was appraised on 23 Nov. 1838 by Benjamin P. Wood, Cushman Vaughan, and John Savery, his real estate totaled $2025, including his homestead farm valued at $1500, and his personal estate totaled $342.10. Thomas Southworth, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on the first Monday of Dec. 1838.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 80, pp. 357-358, 481-482, from FHL microfilm #0555265, and Vol. 1G, p. 89.

 

 

Will of William Dunham of Plymouth, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1745) *

In the Name of God Amen,  I William Dunham of Plimouth in the County of Plimouth in the province of the Massachusetts bay in New England yeoman being on a Sick bed and apprehending My selfe near the Great Change of Death but of a sound & Desposeing Mind & Memory Do First Give my Soul to God trusting through the meritts of my Dear Redeemer to find Acceptance with him My body I Commit to the Grave beleiving my Executor will give it a Decent burial and trusting that it Shall at ye. Great day be raisd again in a likeness to Christ Glorious body, and as to My worldly Goods that God hath blessed me with I Give & dispose of them as follows (after my Just debts and funeral Charges are paid) —  Item I Give to my dear and loveing wife the Improvement of my Real & personale Estate Dureing her Life To be wholy at her Disposall with Liberty to Sell and Dispose of the Same if there be Necessity for it, for her support and the support of my poor in firm son William Dunham —

2. Whatever of my Real or personal Estate Shall be left or remaining at the decease of my Dear wife My Will is that it be Settled upon my two Children to wit My Beloved son William Dunham & My beloved Daughter Martha Freeman wife of Nathaniel Freeman According to the Law of this province for Settling Intestate Estates in, Two parts or Shares of ye. Same to my sd. son William and one Share or part of the Same to my said Daughter Martha. —

3  I Do appoint my Beloved Brother Samuel Dunham Sole Executor of this my last will & Testament and I do hereby Renounce and revoke all other wills or Testaments be me heretofore made and Do Publish pronounce & Declare this to be my last Will and Testament  In Witness whereof I have hereunto Set my hand and Seal this twelfth day of November One thousand seven hundred & forty five

Signed Sealed published & Declared

In Presence of

Nathaniel Foster                                                                                                                   William Dunham                             (seal)

Eleazer Stephens

Thomas Foster

 

Probated on 8 Mar. 1745[/46], and proved by Thomas Foster and Nathll. Foster, two of the witnesses.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of William Dunham, late of Plimouth, was appraised by Thomas Foster, Seth Jackson, and Samuel Bartlett on 31 Mar. 1746, and totaled £223.16.63/4. Samuel Donham, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 24 May 1746.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 10, p. 325-327, from FHL microfilm #0551535.

 

 

Will of William Dunham of Plymouth, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1761) *

  In the Name of God Amen I William Dunham Of Plimouth in the County of Plimouth in NewEngland Yeoman Having ben for Many years Past a Poor Distrised Creeple but my Infirmities Now increeseing upon me and being Apprehensive yt my great Change By Death Draws Near and being yet Through the goodness of God of Sound & Dysposing Mind & Memory Think it my Duty to Dispose of my Estate as Follows.

  And first I give my Soul to god in and Through Jesus Christ my Dear Redeamer Hoping for Acceptance and Eternal Salvation In and Through his Merits alone My Body I Committ to the Dust to be Decently Buried at the Discretion of my Executor Hereafter Named not Doubting it Shall be raised again at ye. Last Day, and after my Just Debts and Funeral Charges are paid by my Executor Hereafter to be Named–

First I give and Bequeath to Jonathan Churchell of Plimouth To his Heirs and Assigns for Ever the whole of My Estate of what Nature Soever Both Real and Personal, he Paying ye Legacies Hereafter Mentioned to the Four Children of my sister Martha Freeman of Connecticut in Money

2d My Will is that my Executor hereafter Named Immediately After my Decease shall Cause my Estate to Be Apprized by three men Under Oath to be appointed by the Judge of Probate for the County of Plimouth, and after my said Just Debts & funaral Charges are paid The Remainder of the Value of said Estate be Paid in Equal Proportion To the four Children of my Sister Martha freeman wife of Nathll. Freeman Of the Colloney of Connecticut to them or theirs Viz, To Anna Staften And her Heirs one fourth Part to Martha Freeman and her Heirs one Fourth Part to Nathaniel Freeman and His Heirs one fourth Part To Experiance freeman & her heirs one fourth part and further my will Is that the Said Nathaniel be Paid his parts with ye Interest when he arrives To ye. age of Twenty one years and Each of their Daughters their Parts At the age of Eighteen years with interest also till they Arrive to that age, And to Such of the Daughters as are all ready arrived to the age of Eighteen Their Parts to be paid to them or their heirs in Six months after my Decease

Lastly I appoint my well beloved frind Jonathan Churchill (to whom I have given my Said Estate and to whose Care I have committed my Affairs while living) To be Sole Executor of this my Last will and Testament He to be allowed fully for his Trouble with and for me while Managing my Affairs while Living as also for Settling my Estate after my Decease Hereby Revoking all Other will I Declare this to me Last will and Testament, Published Pronounced and Declared to be his Last will And Testament in Presence of –

                                                                                                                                                                His

                her                                                                                                                          William  X  Dunham          (seal)

Hannah  X  Rogers                                                                                                                               Mark

                Mark

                  her

Susannah  +  Marshall

                Mark

Thomas Foster

 

Presented for probate on 2 Mar. 1761 by the Executor theirin Perusd, and proved by Thos. Foster Esqr. and hannah Rogers, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Jonathan Churchill of Plimouth, Yeoman, the Executor, on 2 Mar. 1761.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of William Donham, late of Plimouth, was appraised on 1 Apr. 1761 by Nathaniel Foster, Lemuel Morton, and Silvanus Bartlett, and totaled £51.16.6, his real estate consisting of part of a house, the land adjoyning to the house, an old barn and a field and wood lot, which together totaled £45.18.8. Jonathan Churchel, the administrator on the estate, gave his oath to the inventory on 20 Apr. 1761.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 16, pp. 50-52, 108-109, from FHL microfilm #0551543.

 

 

Will of Christopher Dyer of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1800) *

  In the Name of God Amen. – on the seventh day of April Anno Domini one thousand eight hundred – I Christopher Dyer of Bridgwater in the County of Plymouth, yeoman, being weak in body but of a disposing mind & memory, proceed to make this my last will & testament. In the first place, I give & recommend my soul into the hands of God, who gave it, trusting in his mercy thro’ Jesus Christ for pardon grace and glory; and my body I commit to the earth to be decently buried, at the discretion of my executors, nothing doubting but at the general resurrection I shall receive the same again by the mighty power of God, and as touching such worldly estate, wherewith it hath pleased God to bless me in this life, I give, demise & dispose of the same in the following manner and form. —

  Imprimis. – I Give and bequeath to Sarah my dearly beloved wife, one half of my dwelling house & half of my northerly barn, together with all the privileges & appurtenances thereunto belonging during her natural life – and it is my will & desire that Betty, Sally & Polly, unmarried daughters should have & enjoy, all the privileges & appurtenances, jointly with my wife during their natural lives, of the above mentioned buildings, as long as they may live unmarried; and if Jason, my son, survives the above mentioned daughters, it is my will that said property should be his.—and, I give to Sarah, my wife & to the above named daughters jointly for their use, behoof & disposal forever, three good Cows & an horse, and said creatures to be kept on or near the farm adjoining the house, at the expence of Jason my son, meaning, that Jason, should keep sd creatures during their natural lives provided the daughters live single, & if otherwise, he is not to keep them. And, I also give & bequeath to my wife & aforenamed daughters, jointly & severally, all the household furniture, & moveables of which I may die possessed.— And, I Give & bequeath to Jason my son, all the farming moveables & utensills, which belong to said farm, and also my wearing apparell, and I also give to him all my Stock of Cattle, of which I may die possessed which I have not heretofore disposed of. And I also give & bequeath to Betty, Sally & Polly my daughters, one hundred Dollars to each of them to be paid by my Executor in two years after my decease if called for.—And, I also give & bequeath to Dorothy Battles, Abigail Copeland, & Chloe Leach, my daughters, Thirty Dollars, each, to be paid by my Executor in two years after my decease, if called for.—And, I likewise constitute ordain & appoint my well beloved son, Jason, my sole Executor of this my last will & testament.—And, I do hereby utterly disallow, revoke & disannul all & every other former testaments, wills & legacies. And, I do give & bequeath to said Jason, my appointed Executor, all my lands & Real Estate, which are not otherwise, deeded or given, for his behoof & profit forever, or to his heirs, Executors or administrators.—In witness whereof, I have hereunto Set my hand and Seal, the day and year above written. –

Signed Sealed Published, Pronounced

& declared by the sd. Christopher Dy-                                                                            Christopher Dyer                            (seal)

er, as his last will & testament in

the presence of us.~

                Sarah Bassett

                Joseph Bassett

                George Chipman

 

Presented for probate on 9 June 1800 by Jason Dyer, the Executor therein named, and proved by Joseph Bassett and George Chipman, two of the witnesses.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 37, p. 252-254, from FHL microfilm #0550719.

 

 

Will of Hannah Dyer of Plymouth, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1774) *

        In the name of God amen,—upon the twenty eighth day of July in the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred & seventy four I Hannah Dyer of Plymouth in the county of Plymouth in the Province of the Massachusetts Bay in New England, widow, and relict of Capn. John Dyer Late of said Plymouth deceased, upon good and serious considerations, and being under some decays of nature but of perfect mind & memory thanks be given to God for the same and therefore calling unto mind the mortality of my body and knowing that it is appointed for all men once to die, do make and ordain this to be my Last will & testament, that is to say principally and first of all I do Give and recommend my soul into the hands of God that gave it, and my body I recommend to the earth to be buried in a decent and christian manner at the discretion of my Executors herein after named, nothing doubting but at the great and general resurrection I shall recieve the same again by the almighty power of God, and as touching such worldly Goods & temporal estate that God has been pleased to bless me with in this Life with—I Give, demise and dispose of the same in the following manner and form

        Imprs I Give and unto my Grandson John Dyer my Dwelling house with all the Lands adjoining to it, and my case of draws, a Large Looking Glass that was his Grandfathers John Dyers, six pewter plates & six napkins & four Large silver spoons, one silver pepper box, which were his Grandfathers, all which I do Give & bequeath unto my said Grandson John Dyer, to him his heirs and assigns forever

        Item—My will is that all my just debts & funeral charges be defrayed and paid out of my Lands & cedar swamps, not before disposed of and my other moveable estate not before disposed of—And further my will is that in case that there should be or is any of the said out Lands or cedar swamps or moveable Goods be left over & above or besides paying my just debts and funeral charges, together with what debts there shall be found due to me or to my Estate, I do give and bequeath unto my two Daughters Bathsheba Rickard & Martha Morton equally to be divided between them, their heirs & assigns forever

        Item—I do hereby constitute and appoint Eleazer Stephens & Nathaniel Morton to be the sole Executors of this my Last will & testament—and I do hereby utterly disallow revoke & disannul all & every other & former wills, testaments & bequests Legacies & Executors by me in any before name, willed & bequested, Ratifying and confirming this and no other to be my Last will & testament—In witness whereof I the said Hannah Dyer have hereunto set to my hand, seal, the day and year above written

Signed, Sealed, published, pronounced

& declared by the said Hannah Dyer                                                                                               Hannah Dyer                    (seal)

to be her Last will & testament in

the presence of us the subscribers

        Isaac Doten

        Josiah Whittemore

        John Wadsworth

 

Presented for probate on 2 Mar. 1793 by John Dyer of Boston in the County of Suffolk, saddler, and proved by Isaac Doten, one of the witnesses. Eleazer Stephens and Nathaniel Morton, the Executors named in the said will being both deceased, administration of the estate was granted unto John Dyer.

 

To John Dyer of Boston, in the County of Suffolk, Sadler

Whereas Hannah Dyer Late of Plymouth, in the County of Plymo. aforesaid widow deceased; on the eighth day of July Anno Domini 1774 made her Last will & testament in writing, and signed, sealed & delivered the same before sufficient witnesses, by which will (after gifts Legacies then made) she appointed Eleazer Stephens & Nathl Morton Executors of ye same will, but they being deceased, & the sd will having been proved, approved & allowed admon. wth ye same will annexed is therefore by these presents committed unto you ye sd. John Dyer of all & singular ye Goods Chattells, Rights & Credits of ye sd. deced, will & faithfull to dispose of ye same according to Law & ye direction of ye sd will… In Testimony where of I have hereunto set my hand & ye seal of ye Court of Probate ye second day of March, Anno Dimini 1793

                                                                                                                                                                Joshua Thomas

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 33, p. 269-271, from FHL microfilm #0550717, and Vol. 27, p. 534.

 

 

Will of John Dyer of Plymouth, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1737) *

In the Name of God Amen, I John Dyer of Plymouth in the County of Plymouth in New England Considering the uncertainty of Life and the Certainty of Death and being through Gods Goodness of a sound and Disposeing mind and Memory, Do make & ordain this my Last Will & Testamt. as following, In the first place I bequeath my Immortal Soul to God that Gave it Relying upon his mercy and the Merits of Jesus Christ For Eternal Salvation and my Frail body to the dust to be Decently buried—according to the Discretion of my Executrix herein below mentiond. & appointed hopeing to Receive it a gaine at ye Generall Resurrection. And as to what Temporall Estate it hath pleased the allmighty in his goodness to bless me withall I dispose of the same by this my Last Will & Testament, My Just debts & funerall Charges being first paid as followeth.—

Imprimis I Give and bequeath Unto my Son John Dyer his Heirs and Assigns forever my dwelling house wherein I now dwell & the Farme and the Land whereon they Stand and the Land Adjoyning when he Shall Arrive to the Age of Twenty One Years And the One half of all the Rest of my Real and personall Estate Whatsoever and Wheresoever to his Heirs & Assigns Forever.

Item. I Give and bequeath to my Loveing wife Hannah Dyer the Other half of my Real & personall Estate (Excepting the Dwelling house & Land) To her & her Heirs and Assigns forever and my Will further is that if my Son John Dyer should Dye before he arrives to the age of twenty one years then I Give the whole of my Estate both Real and Personall to my said loveing wife Hannah Dyer to her Heirs & Assigns forever to be wholy at her Disposall. —

Item, I do Constitute and appoint my sd Dear wife Hannah Dyer Sole Executrix of this my Last Will and Testament; and I do by these presents Revoke and make void all other and former Wills by me heretofore made Ratyfying allowing & Confirming this and no other to be my Last Will and Testamt. And in Testymony hereof I the sd John Dyer have hereunto Set my hand and Seal this fifteenth day of June Anno Domini One thousand Seven hundred & thirty seven 1737.

Signd Seald Publish & Declar’d

To be his Last Will & Testamt.

        In Presence of us                                                                                                         John Dyer                          (seal)

Lazarus LeBaron

David Turner

Samuel Thacher

 

Presented for probate by the Executx. on 17 Nov. 1741, and proved by Samll Thacher, one of the witnesses. Proved by Lazarus LeBaron and David Turner, the other witnesses, on 20 Nov.1741.

 

Whereas John Dyre, of Plymouth, Gentleman, is Non Compos Mentis (as we Judge) and Utterly Incapable of Takeing Care of himselfe & his Estate, Wherefore we pray that Care may be Taken Relateing Thereunto by your Honour to Law & Justice Appertain, signed on 22 Dec. 1740 by Samuel Nelson, Hannah Dyre, Isaac Lothrop, Nathll. Thomas, Jno. Murdock, and Saml. Bartlett. James Warren, Esqr., Stephen Churchel & Josiah Morton, Gentm., Lazarus Lebaron, Physician, & Thomas Holmes, yeoman, all of Plymouth, were appointed to make Inquisition of the Person and Circumstances of John Dyre on 22 Dec. 1740. On 23 Dec. 1740 they reported back that John Dyre is Non Compos and incapable of taking care of himselfe, family, or Estate. Mr. Samuel Nelson, yeoman, and Mr. Thomas Foster, blacksmith, both of Plymouth, were appointed as guardian of John Dyre, of Plymouth, on 23 Dec. 1740.

 

Deacon Joseph Lucas, of Plymton, Collo. Isaac Lothrop Junr., and Capt. Stephen Churchell, both of Plymouth, were appointed to appraise the estate of John Dyre, of Plymouth, a person Non Compos Mentis, on 23 Dec. 1740. The Inventory totaled £1557.1.7.

 

Isaac Lothrop Junr., and Stephen Churchell, of Plymouth, and Joseph Lucas of Plymton, were appointed to appraise the estate of John Dyer, late of Plymouth, Gent., deceased, on 20 Nov. 1741. The Inventory totaled £1563.2.1, his house & land in Plymouth where he dwelt valued at £450, land at beef hill at Eel River in Plymouth valued at £80, and houses, upland, meadow & Cedar swamp in Plymton valued at £660. The appraisers and Hannah Dyre, the administratrix, gave their oaths to the inventory on 14 July 1742.

 

* Transcribed and abstracted by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 8, pp. 435 (will),  268-270, (petition, inquisition & guardianship), 507-509 (guardianship inventory), and 509-512 (probate inventory and oaths), from FHL microfilm #0551531.

 

 

Will of Joseph Eagleston of Greenfield, Saratoga County, New York (1799) *

                                                                                                                                                                The last Will of Joseph Egleston Deceased ~

In the name of God Amen. I Joseph Eagleston of Greenfield in the County of Saratoga and State of New York, being in a poor state of helth but of a sound mind and memory calling to mind the mortality of my the mortality of my body think proper to make and ordain this my last Will and Testament, first I recommend my spirit to God who gave it, and my body to the dust to be buried in a decent Christian like manner under the direction of my Executors herein after nam’d~ and as touching such worldly Estate wherewith it hath pleased God to bless me with in this life I give and dispose of the same in the manner following Vizt.  I the first place I order that my just debts and funeral charges be first paid out of my Estate by my Executors ~ My will is, and I do hereby order my Executors to deliver unto Daughter Sarah Washbon one fether bed and furniture, this together with what I have heretofor given her I judge to be her share of my Estate ~ I give unto my Daughter Abigail Goodspeed Ten Dollars, I give unto my Daughter Charity Pike one Dollar, I give unto my Daughter Mary Eagleston one fether bed and furniture and one Cow, to be deliver’d her by my Executors when she shall come of age, I give to wife Mary Eagleston one bed and furniture, I give unto my said wife the use, Rents, and Profits of one hundred acres of Land of the south end of my homstead with the dwelling house and this building thereon standing, for so long time as she shall remain my widow, this I give her for her support during her said Widowhood, and for the support, Educating, and bringing up of my four Children namely Arthur Eagleston, Amos Eagleston, Benjamin Eagleston, David Eagleston and Mary Eagleston, and for which purpose I also give unto my said wife my sheep, hogs fatting Cow and half of my horses and one half of my stock of Cattle besides what are herein otherwise disposed of And for which purpose I also give to her my said wife all my hay and other fodder, and Grain of Every kind, both that which is harvested, and that which is not, and for which purpose I also give my said wife the use of of all my farming utentials and household furniture not herein before disposed of, and I hereby strictly injoin it on my Executors to see that the uses, Rents, Profits, and articles herein granted to my said wife for her support during her said widowhood, and for the support Educating and bringing up of my said infant Children be applyed for that purpose according to the true intent and meaning of this my last Will. –

I give unto my sons Joseph Robbins Eagleston, Arthur Eagleston, Amos Eagleston, Benjamin Eagleston, and David Eagleston, the hundred Acres of Land afore mentioned with the said dwelling and other buildings there on, equally between them and their respective heirs and Assigns for ever, but not to take Possession thereof till my said son David Eagleston shall become of Age, and even then under the injunction that my said wife be Supported out of the Rents, and Profits there of during her said Widowhood ~ I give unto my son John Eagleston about six acres of Land inclosed in fence adjoining the south side of the lane leading from the highway to his dwelling house, to him his heirs and Assigns for ever~  all the rest and residue of my Lands and possessions not herein before disposed of I give equally between my three sons Samuel Eagleston, John Eaglston and Jeremiah Eagleston and their respective heirs and Assigns forever ~ I likewise give to my three sons last mentioned all my Cattle and horses not herein before disposed of equally between them ~ And lastly I nominate, ordain and appoint my said wife Mary Eagleston and my said son John joint Executors to this my last Will and Testament but if either should die before the business should be finished (in that case) I hereby from that make the survivor my sole Executor to finish the same and I hereby make all former or other Wills by me made, ratifying and Confirming this and no other to be my last Will and Testament ~

In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal at Greenfield aforesaid the thirtieth day of August Anno Domm one Thousand seven hundred and Ninety nine

                                                                                                                                                                                his

                                                                                                                                                                  Joseph  X  Egleston                           (seal)

                                                                                                                                                                             mark

Signed sealed and pronounced by the said Joseph Eagleston to be his last Will and Testament in presence of us

Adam Comstock, Ebenezer Scofield, Amos Scofield ~

Saratoga County SS: Be it rembered that on the Sixteenth day of December in the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and ninety nine personally appeared before me Henry Walton, Surrogate of the County of Saratoga Adam Comstock and Ebenezer Scofield two of the subscribing witnesses to the above written Will who being duly sworn on their oaths declared that they saw Joseph Eagleston sign (by making his mark) and seal the said instrument in writing purporting to be the last Will and Testament of him the said Joseph Egleston, that they heard him publish and declare the same as and for his last Will and Testament, and that at the time thereof he the said Joseph Eagleston was of sound mind memory and understanding to the best of their knowledge and belief, and that their names subscribed to the said Will are respectively of their own proper hand writing and that they subscribed their names thereto in the presence of the Testator and that they saw Amos Scofield the other subscribing witness subscribe his name thereto in the presence of the Testator and that Mary Egleston & John Egleston Executors in the said Will named likewise appeared before me and were duly sworn to the faithful performance and Execution of the said Will ~

                                                                                                                                                                Henry Walton

Letters Testamentary were granted to Mary Eagleston, widow of Joseph Eagleston, deceased, and John Egleston on 17 Dec. 1799.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Saratoga County Probate Wills Vol. 1, p. 45-48, from FHL microfilm #0555716.

 

 

Will of Alfred Eaton of Middleborough, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1840) *

In the name of God Amen. I Alfred Eaton of Middleborough, in the County of Plymouth and Commonwealth of Massachusetts being weak in body but of a sound and perfect mind and memory do make and publish this my last will & Testament in manner and form following: that is to say, I give and bequeath to Everitt Robinson and William Robinson my sister’s two sons all the real Estate I own on the easterly side of the road where I now live to come into possession of the same after the decease of one of my parents. This I do in consideration of the services of their mother in attending to me in my sickness. I give it to them and their heirs forever. I have the remainder of my property to pay my just bills.

Signed sealed published and declared by me the above said Alfred Eaton this twlf day of June in the year of our lord one thousand eight hundred forty.

                                                                                                                                                Alfred Eaton                      (seal)

Signed sealed published & declared in the presence of us                                                                          William Drake

                                                                                                                                                                                Josiah Robinson

                                                                                                                                                                                Mercy B. Swift

 

Presented for probate on the first Tuesday of October 1840 by Everett Robinson, a devisee therein named, and proved by William Drake and Josiah Robinson, two of the witnesses.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Alfred Eaton, late of Middleborough, not dated, was appraised by Andrew Weston, David Alden jr. and Enos Drake, his homestead with the buildings and 12 acres of land valued at $450, a lot of land westwardly of the road containing 6 acres valued at $150, and $39.15 in personal estate. Everett Robinson, the administrator with will annexed, gave his oath to the inventory on the first Tuesday of November 1840.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 82, pp. 311-312, 366, from FHL microfilm #0555266.

 

 

Will of Benjamin Eaton of Kingston, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1745) *

In the Name of God Amen I Benjamin Eaton of Kingston in the County of Plimouth in New England House wright being of a disposeing mind & memory blessed be God for the same and knowing that it is appointed for all men once to die Do make & ordain this to be my Last will and Testament, and in the first place I Give & Bequeath my Soul to God that gave it me & my body to the Earth in hopes of a Blessed Resurrection, and as to the Temporal Estate it hath pleased God to favour me with I dispose of the same in the following Order—

Imprimis. I Give and Bequeath unto my Loveing son William Eaton his heirs and assigns forever About Seventy Acres of Land of my homestead lying & being in Kingston aforesaid bounded beginning at a Small Rock with Stones upon it about half a pole to the Westward of the range of Francis Cooks land and is twenty three pole & one half Distant from the Small Walnuts in sd. Cooks range—which is a Bound of Land I Gave lately to my Son David Eaton by Deed, & from thence ranging South forty Seven degrees and One half westerly to a heap of Stones about three feet to the northward of a Small walnut Sapling Marked on four sides near a Swam & Side and from thence on the Same range unto the range of the Land I lately Sold unto Josiah Perkins & from thence by sd. Perkins’s land unto the Land of George Bryant thence by sd. Bryants land unto the Small ash tree marked being by the side of a Brook which tree is a Bound between my Land and the Land of Eleazer Ring and from thence by said Rings land unto the Land of Francis Cook and so by sd. Cooks land to the Bound first mentiond, Allso Two Acres of meadow be it more or less lying in Jones River meadow in the Town of Plimton being all that part, of that Lot of meadow that I bought of the Reverend Mr. Isaac Cushman Deceasd lying on the North west Side of a Ditch that Crosses sd. lot of meadow.  Allso I Give him all my Percell of upland & Swamp Ground lying adjoining to the northwest End of the Before mentioned meadow home to the Coune of the Easterly side of sd. Lot of meadow & home to the Land of Josiah Perkins & Samuel Bradfords and the meadow that was Jacob Chipmans & Robert Watermans: allso I Give him a Good Bed and Suitable Furniture to it and a Chest which he uses with the Axes that are Called his, allso a Quart pot marked B E : allways reserveing a way Suitable to my meadow over sd. Land. Allso Reserve the old Dry wood on sd land for my Sons John Benjamin & David. and whereas I look upon my Son William Eaton non compos mentis therefore my will is that in case my Son William Should have no heir lawfully begotten of his body and Should come to want that then And in that case my two Sons Benjamin Eaton & David Eaton Shall have all the Lands and meadow with all that I have Given my Son William Eaton if they take care of him and provide for him all things Needfull and Necessary for him for his comfortable Support Dureing his Natural life But in case they refuse so to do then my will is that any other of my sons or sons in law who Shall provide for him as aforesaid Shall have the Land and meadow and what is Given him by this Instrument and in case they Shall all refuse to take ye care of him as aforesaid that then the Select men of the Town Successively Shall have power to dispose of sd. Estate and Out of the Effects to provide fer his Comfortable support and the Over plus (if any be to returne to my Children to be divided amongst them in manner following viz. To Each son two shares, To each daughter One Share and One Share to each daughter Deceasd to be Equally Divided between Each Daughters Children.— Whereas I have Given my Son Benjamin Eaton a percell of Land by Deed of Gift, I now Give him about Eleven Acres more of my homestead and bounded beginning at a heap of Stones laid about a Small rock Cleft in two on the West Side of a Cart way which is ye former bounds of land I formerly gave him thence by said Land to a Small Maple marked in the range of land which was Capt. Lorings and from thence by sd. Lorings land to the Land of Isaac Churchell thence by sd. Churchells land up the Brook to the Easterly Corner thereof, Thence North North 52 Degress and a half Easterly about Seventeen Pole and a half to a Stake & Stones about it which is the Southerly Corner bounds of the land I lately Gave to my son John Eaton: Thence bounded by John Eaton’s land to the bound first mentioned; allso I Give unto him that One Acre of my Land which lyeth at the westerly Corner of ye land I Sold to Josiah Perkins, and allso one half part of ye meadow I bought of the Revd Mr. Isaac Cushman aforesd. lying on the South East side of a Ditch which Crosseth sd. lott, allso Three Eights of a Lott of Meadow I bought of Mr. Partridge to be Set off to him as may be best for him, and the rest of the Lott the other Five Eights, I Give to my Son David (this as to the body of sd. Lotts of Meadow) but a piece of said Lott almost Included in some Upland & Swampy Ground of about four or five acres more or less not before disposed off I Give to my Sons Benjamin & David to be Equaly Divided between them Allso my will is that that the bond That my Son Francis Eaton Gave me for One hundred & odd pounds be discharged & Deliverd up to him or his.— Item I Give and bequeath unto my Loveing son Elisha Eaton One hundred pounds old tenour or in Good merchantable goods at money price or a piece of meadow I bought of Eleazer Cushman in Jones river Meadow But if my Executor see Cause to take ye Meadow and pay the hundred pound thats at his Election—  Allso I Give unto my three Sons John Benjamin & David in Equal parts or Shares all my Cedar Swamps whatsoever or Wheresoever in case or may be found— allso a percell of Land I bought of Samuel Bradford lying in the Sixth Great Lott, Laid Out in Plimouth Commons 1712. Allso I Give to my Three sons my Pew in the Meeting house & Helyards Hetchel Betle & wedges & Carpenters & Joyners Tools.  Item I Give and Bequeath unto my Grand Children, the Children of my daughter Sarah Cushman the Sum of fourty pounds old tenour or that which is Equivalent to money as it now goes to be equally divided amongst my sd. Grand Children.

Item I Give & bequeath unto my daughter Mary Soule Seventeen pounds old tenour in money or that Equivalent as it goes now.— Item I Give and bequeath Daughter Elizabeth Stertevent Ten Shillings old tenour which together with what I have allready Given her I Judge to be her portion.— Item I Give & Bequesth unto my Grand Child Phebe Bryant the sum of Thirty Shillings old tenour to be paid in money or Equivalent. To Mercy & Hannah I late paid them their portion. and their Remains due of of Micah Bryants portion Fifteen pounds & ten Shillings old tenour in money or what is Equivalent and to Jesse Bryant Twenty five pounds & Sixteen Shillings old tenour in money or that which is Equivalent— and all ye rest of my Estate of what Kind or Nature so Ever and wheresoever lying & being my Just debts & Legacys and funeral Charges being first paid, I Give and Bequeath Equaly amongst my Children (Excepting my son William) and such of my Children thats deceased left Children Each Childs (Children) to have one Share amongst them it is my will that my Executyor pay Out sd Legacys within a year And a half after my Decease. I do nominate Ordain & appoint my Loving son Benjamin Eaton Junr. Executor of this my Last will and Testament, hereby Confirming this & no other to be my last will & Testament, Hereby making Null & void all and Every will or wills or Codisils heretofore made and allowing this & no other to be my Last will and Testament as Witness my Hand & Seal twenty third day of April Anno Dom. 1745. Yet notwithstanding any thing abovewritten If my Children can agree about the take care of my son William I leave it to their Discretion—

                                                                                                                                                Benjamin Eaton                                (seal)

William Ripley

John Everson

Francis Adams

 

Plimo. Sc. December 20, 1745. The abovenamed William Ripley John Everson & Francis Adams made Oath that they saw said Benja. Eaton the Testator Sign & Seal & heard him declare this Instrument to be his last will & Testament & that they in his presence Subscribed as Witnesses & that he was then of Sound mind in their Judgements. Before

                                                                                                                   Jno. Cushing  Judge of Probt.

 

An Inventory of the Estate of Mr. Benjamin Eaton late of Kingston Deceased taken by us the Subscribers 20th of January 1745.

Imprimis, To Punes & Apparell                                                                                   75.19.8

To Table Cloath                                                                                                                1.0.0

To Beds & beding & Furniture                                                                                    55.16.6

To Meal Bagg                                                                                                                    0.5.0

To Brass Scales & rots                                                                                                      1.0.0

To Stilyards                                                                                                                       2.0.0

To Warming pan                                                                                                               2.0.0

To Puter plate platen & Tanker &c.                                                                              5.15.0

To Iron Pots Kettles & Other Iron Utensils                                                               11.7.0

To 2 Brass kettles                                                                                                           11.0.0

To more Iron Utensils                                                                                                      2.2.0

To Knives forkes & Box Iron                                                                                         0.7.0

To Silver Buckles & Shoes                                                                                             2.6.0

To Butter & Butter pot                                                                                                     1.13.0

To Earthen & Glass & Stone vessels                                                                            1.14.0

To Cleves & tallow                                                                                                          1.4.0

To wooden Utensils                                                                                                         2.10.8

To Sam p Morter & Table                                                                                               1.5.0

To Sickles                                                                                                                          0.6.0

To Chest & Tables & Sifting trough                                                                            1.17.6

To Chain Chests & Tubs & Cask                                                                                  4.3.0

To a Short Log Chain                                                                                                      1.0.0

To Carpenter tools                                                                                                           1.10.0

To Grain of all Sort come to                                                                                         22.19.0

To hay in the Barne                                                                                                        15.0.0

                                                                                                                                        225.17.8

Brot over from the Other Side                                                                                  225.17.8

To the Live Stock upon the Farm                                                                                80.10.0

To a Yoke of Oxen in Francis Eatons hands                                                              32.0.0

To Pott & pott Book at Benja Eatons house                                                                1.10.0

To Books                                                                                                                            1.18.0

To Pork                                                                                                                             10.14.0

To the Eighth part of ye Furnace                                                                              120.0.0

To ye Same part in an old forge                                                                                    10.0.0

To part in Jones River Meadow                                                                                   48.0.0

To other lands & Cedar Swamp                                                                                673.0.0

To 30 Acres of land lying between David & William lands                               324.0.0        

to Cash £5 – Crow Bar 20/                                                                                              6.0.0

To Some Rails                                                                                                                   1.0.0

To Curtain rods, Testament old Saddle                                                                        2.11.0

To a piece of Land bought of Samuel Bradford                                                         8.0.0

The Above Inventory was valued in bills of Credits old tenour

by us –                                                                                                   Gershom Bradford

                                                                                                                Samuel Foster

                                                                                                                Samuel King

 

Plymouth Sc, March 6th 1745, Benjamin Eaton Execr. on the Estate of sd Deceased made oath that this Inventory Contains all sd Deceased Estate so far as he knows & that When he Shall know of more he’l Give it in the above Apprisers being Allso under Oath

                                                                                                                Before me Jno. Cushing Judge of Probt.

 

Jacob Tomson, of Middleborough, Josiah Perkins, James Harlow, George Bryant, and Nathaniel Fuller, all of Plympton, were appointed to divide the real estate of Benjamin Eaton, late of Kingston, that was not particularly bequeathed and given away among the children & their repesentatives according to law and the intent and meaning of the will, on 20 May 1748. The division, dated 15 June 1748, mentioned Benjamin’s sons William Eaton, David Eaton, the Revd. Mr. Elisha Eaton, the heirs of Hannah Bryant, deceased, who was the wife of Benjamin Bryant, deceased, namely Michell Bryant & Marcy Leach, the wife of Nathaniel Leach, son John Eaton, daughter Mary Soul, wife of Zechariah Soule, who has sold her right to Capt. John Loreing of Plympton, as did son Francis Eaton, deceased, daughter Elizabeth Sturtevant, the wife of Cornelius Sturtevant, daughter Sarah Cushman, deceased, who was late the wife of Benjamin Cushman, and daughter Hannah Bryant, deceased, wife of Benja. Bryant, deceased, accepted 12 Sept. 1748.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 10, pp. 70-73, 120-121, from FHL microfilm #0551535 (will & inventory), and Vol. 11, p. 160-163, from FHL microfilm #0551537 (division.)

 

 

Will of Elijah Eaton of Middleborough, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1825) *

In the name of GOD Amen. I Elijah Eaton of Middleborough in the county of Plymouth and Commonwealth of Massachusetts Yeoman, Being in health and of a Sound Disposing mind and memory; and Calling to mind that it is appointed unto all men once to DIE, do proceed to make my last Will and Testament, and Publish the Same in the following manner First of all I commend my Soule to GOD who gave it thro’ the merits and mediation of the Glorious Redeemer, and my Body to the Dust whence it was taken, to be buried in a Christian manner in hope of a Resurection to a glorious immortality; And as touching Such worldly estate as it hath Pleased GOD to bestow on me in this Life, I give and dispose of it in the following manner. VIZ. 1. To my Son Barzilai Eaton I give the improvement during his natural Life of the following described Estate: – all my Land North of the Road where my Dwelling house Stands, the New Part of Said Dwelling house, and the West great Room, the Privalidge of Cutting Wood on my Wood Land sufficient for one fire three years, my Cider Casks – half the Corn house – one bed Room Chamber in the West Part of said house, the Same that he finished and a Privaledge at the Well. 2. I give and bequeath unto the Revd. Phillip Colley to his use and benifit forever all my Right to the Proprietors house in this Parish with the Real Estate and other buildings pertaining to it, being the same which he now occupies – 3. I give and bequeath to my Daughter Lucretia Perkins to be paid to her out of my Estate Twenty Dollars. 4. I will and bequeath to my Daughter Mersena Eaton to be paid out of my Estate Twenty Dollars. 5. I give and bequeath to my Daughter Bethana Leonard to be paid to her out of my Estate Twenty Dollars, and in case of her becoming a Widow – I bequeath unto her one fifth of all my Real & Personal Estate not already disposed of in the foregoing Articles: or in other Words, that She Shall Receive one fifth of all in the next following item is bequeathed to Zebina Eaton, Salona Fobes, Salona Eaton & Elijah Eaton & Sarah Keith & Elijah E. Perkins – 6. all my Real and Personal Estate not already disposed of in the foregoing articles I give and bequeath and would have appropriated in the following manner – To my Son Zabina Eaton one fourth part; to my Daughter Salona Fobes one fourth part, to Salona Eaton one Eighth Part, to Elijah Eaton one Eighth Part Children of Daniel Eaton who married my Daughter, to Sarah Keith, wife of John Keith one Eighth part, and to Elijah E. Perkins one Eighth part Children of Azel Perkins who married my Daughter, to their use and benefit forever – Provided nevertheless that if Bethana Leonard mentioned in the fifth Article Shall become a Widow She is to Receive as is there Expressed one fifth of Said Estate. 7thly & lastly. I do hereby appoint Elijah E. Perkins, Trader, and Luke Reed – Yeoman, both of Middleborough aforesaid, joint and Sole Executors of this my last Will and Testament And I do hereby Revoke all former Wills and Testaments heretofore made or named, declaring, Ratifying and confirming this to be my last Will and Testament.    In Witness whereof I the said Elijah Eaton have hereunto Set my hand and Seal this thirty first day of October in, the Year of our Lord one Thousand Eight hundred and Twenty five

                                                                                                                                                Elijah Eaton                      (seal)

Signed, Sealed, Delivered, Published & Declared by the Said Elijah Eaton

to be his last Will and Testament in Presence of us.

        George Pickens Jr.

        Harriet S. Smith

        Sarah An Sproat

 

Probated on 11 April 1831, and proved by George Pickens Jr., one of the witnesses, Harriet S. Smith is deceased and Sarah An Sproat is out of the Commonwealth. Letters of Administration granted to Elijah E. Perkins of Middleborough and Luke Reed of Taunton, County of Bristol.

 

Simon Backus, Azel Perkins, and Daniel Alden, all of Middleborough, were appointed to appraise the Estate of Elijah Eaton, late of Middleborough, on 31 Jan. 1831. The Inventory, dated 2 Mar. 1831, totaled $1927.00, his homestead farm & buildings valued at $1900, the Proprietors House & Shed was valued at only $27, and his personal estate totaled $199.18. Elijah E. Perkins and Luke Reed, the Executors, gave their oath to the inventory on 11 Apr. 1831.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 70, pp. 116-118, 229-230, from FHL microfilm #0555260.

 

 

Will of Samuel Eaton of Middleborough, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1815) *

In the name of God amen, I Samuel Eaton of Middleborough in the County of Plymouth & State of Massachusetts, considering the Frailty of human nature & the uncertainty of Life being of sound mind & memory, these things me hereunto moving have thought proper to make this my last Will and Testament in manner following namely, my Soul I commit to Almighty God who gave it & my Body to the Dust to be decently interred at the discretion of my Executors hereafter named; my real Estate, which I am in possession of, I dispose of in the following manner.—

        First I give & bequeath to my two Sons Israel Eaton and Enos Eaton all my real Estate with my Money to be equally divided & also the Tan-Yard between them, with this exception the Buildings of all kinds except the currying Shop & Beck house I give to my Son Enos Eaton exclusive; by their paying out of my Estate as hereafter mentioned, which two Sons Israel & Enos I constitute & appoint my executors to this my last will & Testament; namely I give to my Son Israel Eaton my Desk with one half my Hitchel, to my Son Enos Eaton, my watch & one Bed with my great Iron kettle, & one half of my Hitchel, together with my Fire Tongs; I give to my Son Israel Eaton, my great Bible – I give to my Son Daniel Eaton one hundred & fifty Dollars. I give to my Son Darius Eaton one hundred & fifty Dollars. I give & bequeath to each of the Children of my Son Samuel Eaton, that may be living at my decease ten Dollars each; I give to the Children of my Daughter Mehitabel Wood one Bed with one half my house hold Furniture not above disposed of, also I give to my Daughter Eunice Eddy one Cow with the other half of my household Furniture; I give to my Grandson Zenas Eaton ten Dollars to be paid him in Leather – All which Legacies shall be paid out of my Estate after my just debts are paid within one year after my decease. the rest & every part of my Estate, that may remain of what kind soever, shall be equally divided between my two Executors Israel & Enos Eaton —  This I declare to be my last Will & Testament & hereby revoking all former wills by me made – In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand & Seal this first day of May in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred & fifteen.

Signed sealed published & declared by the

above named Samuel Eaton to be his last

Will & Testament in presence of us who

have hereunto subscribed our Names as Witnesses                                                       Samuel Eaton                    (seal)

in the presence of the Testator –

        Seth Eaton junr.

        Barnabas Eaton

        Ziba Eaton

 

Presented for probate on 21 Feb. 1820 by Israel Eaton and Enos Eaton, the Executors therein named, and proved by Seth Eaton Jr. and Barnabas Eaton, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Israel Eaton and Enos Eaton, the before named Executors.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 50, p. 501, from FHL microfilm #0550906.

 

 

Will of William Eaton of Plymouth, Colony of New Plymouth (1690) *

July – 1690  The Will of William Eaton I being Cald forth to go against the French I Give 1 Cow and Calf to my Father and Mother.

All debts I Give to them But they must Gather them John Gray oweth me fifty shillings in money and two days worke I helps him that he ows me for.

Elkanah Cushman and Martha his Wife made oath before the County Court at Plimouth March 18th 1690/91 that they being in Company of William Eaton above named on the Day of the Date abovesaid Did here him verbally Declare what is above written to be his Will and that the same in his presence was then Comitted to writing                                                                             Attest Saml Sprague Clerk.

 

An Inventory of the Estate of William Eaton Deceased [not totaled, but small]

Benjamin Eaton father of the above named William Eaton deceased made oath before the County Court at Plimouth March 18th 1690/91 that this above written is a true Inventory of the Estate of sd Deceased so far as he knoweth and that if more Shall be Discovered to him he will make it known.

                                                                                                                                Attest Saml Sprague Clerk

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 1, p. 82-83.

 

 

Will of Joshua Eddy of Dighton, Bristol County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1835) *

In the name of God, Amen.- I Joshua Eddy of Dighton in the County of Bristol and Commonwealth of Massachusetts, being sick and weak in body, but of a sound and disposing mind and memory, calling to mind the uncertainty of human life, believing it appointed unto man once to die, do make and establish this my last Will and Testament in manner and form following.— First and principally I commit my spirit unto God who gave it and my body I commit to the earth to be decently buried at the discretion of my executor And such worldly estate as it hath pleased God to bless me with in this life my will is and I give and dispose of the same in the following manner.—

Imprimis. I order that all my just debts and funeral charges be well and truly paid by my executor herein after named out of my estate after my decease.–

Item. I give and bequeath unto my beloved wife Isabel Eddy the use and improvement of all my estate both real and personal after my just debts are paid so long as she shall remain my widow and no longer, instead of her third and dower. —

Item. I give and bequeath unto my two sons James Eddy and Joseph Eddy each Fifty Dollars in addition to what I shall give them herein after mentioned, to be paid them, when my wife’s right in my estate shall cease, by my executor herein after named, out of my estate.—

Item. I give and bequeath unto Wanton A. Eddy and Nancy B. Eddy Children of my son Wanton Eddy deceased, each one Dollar, to be paid them out of my estate by my executor herein after named when my wife’s right in my estate shall cease.–

Item I give and bequeath unto my children Viz Francis Eddy, James Eddy, Joshua Eddy, Joseph Eddy, Eben Eddy, Jabez Eddy, Stephen Eddy, Elizabeth Hathaway, Lovina Eddy and Mary Anne Eddy all the rest and residue of my estate both real and personal not before given away to be divided equally between them after my wife’s right in my estate ceases excepting my three daughters whose three shares together shall be equal to two sons in this division to them and their heirs and assigns forever.–

Lastly I hereby nominate and appoint my son James Eddy to be my sole executor to this my last Will and Testament hereby ordaining ratifying and confirming this and this only to be my last Will and Testament, making null and void all other or former wills by me at any time heretofore made,—

In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this ninth day of May in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and Thirty five –

Signed, sealed and declared by the                                                                                  Joshua Eddy                                                      (seal)

said Joshua Eddy, to be his last Will

and Testament, in presence of us, who

at his request and in his presence

have subscribed our names as

witnesses hereto – – – – –

John Earle

Elisha Baker                                                                                                                         Dighton July 10 1835

Asa Chace                                                                                                                                            approved –

 

Proved on 10 July 1835 by John Earle, Elisha Baker and Asa Chace, the witnesses. James Eddy, of Swansey, was granted letters testamentary on the estate of Joshua Eddy, late of Dighton, on 10 July 1835, with John Earle and Elisha Baker, both of Swansey, as sureties.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Bristol County Probate File #9184, online at www.AmericanAncestors.org, New England Historic Genealogical Society, Boston, MA.

 

 

Will and Codicil of Obadiah Eddy of Middleborough, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1722) *

Know all men by these presents that I Obadiah Eddy of the town of Middleborough in the County of plmouth in new England: being at this present time in health and of sound and disposing memory and understanding: Blessed be god for it yet being senceable of my own Mortality: do make and ordain this to be my last will and testament: to remain firm and Inviolable for Ever: Imprimis I give and bequeath unto my son Samuel eddy: My Steer which is three years old this Spring: and my calf: besides what I have heretofore given him Item: I give and bequeath unto my son Benjamin Eddy: my mare and my saddle: and my hoops for cart wheeles, and my draught chain: and plow Irons: and grindstone: and horse chains: and fro: and Iron dog: and three hoes: and my Iron tackling for a yoke: and my Iron kettle: and washing Tubb: besides what I have heretofore given him: Item: I give and bequeath unto my two aforesaid sons Samuel & Benjamin My log Chain and my crosscut saw and my Hatchel: to be in Equal partnership between them: Item: I give and bequath unto my Daughter Elisabeth delano my Cow which she now hath in her custody: besides what I have heretofore given her: Item Item: I give and bequeath unto my grand daughter Sarah Eddy: the daughter of my Son Joel Eddy: My bed: and all the bedding belonging to it: and also the two pewter platters and one Quart pot: and one warming pan: and one brass Skillet: and one pewter bason: and one pewter porringer: and one frying pan: which were her mothers and also I give unto her my said grand daughter My least Iron pot and pot hooks and Iron Tramel: and one pint pot: Item: I give and bequeath unto my grand daughter Mehetabel Eddy the daughter of my Son John Eddy my cow which I now have in my Custody: Item: I give and bequeath unto my daughter in law Malatiah Eddy the Wife of my Son Samuel Eddy: all my houshold Stuff which I have left at the house of my Said Son Samuel Eddy: Except the aforementioned particulars which I have given to my grand daughter Sarah Eddy as aforesaid: Item I have heretofore given unto My Son John Eddy; and unto My Son Jabez Eddy and unto my Daughter Hasadiah Samson Deceased and unto my daughter Bennet Woodward: and unto my daughter Hannah Clark: their full part and portion which I Intend for them of my Estate and my will is that my Loving friend Capt Jacob Tomson Shall be Executor of this my Last will and testament: to take care that the same be performed according to the true Intent and meaning thereof: Thus hopeing that this my last will and testament will be truly performed: I commit my body to the dust and My soul to God that gave it: in witness Whereof I the aforesaid Obadiah Eddy have hereunto Set my hand and Seal this: 18th. day of May one thousand seven hundred twenty and two

                                                                                                                                                                his mark

Signed Sealed and declared by the                                                                                   Obadiah  O  Eddy               (seal)

aforesaid Obadiah Eddy to be his

last will and testament: in the

presence of us

George Vaughan

Abigail Tomson juner

Lydia Tomson

 

                A Codicill

Know all men by these presents that Whereas I Obadiah Eddy of the Town of Middleborough in the County of Plimouth in New England have Declared this Instrument to be my Last Will & Testament and whereas my beloved & Trusty friend Jacob Tomson Esqr Whom I Chose & apointed my Executor to this My Last Will & Testament is Deceased

I Doe therefore by these presents appoint ordain & Constitute my Son Samuel Eddy Sole Executor to this my said Last Will & Testament & Doe by these presents Rattifie and Confirm this Instrument as it is Expressed on this paper baring Date May the Eighteenth in the Year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred Twenty & two—. In Witness hereof of the said

Obadiah Eddy have Hereunto

Set my hand & Seal this Seventeenth                                                                             Obadiah Eddy

Day of December in the year                                                                                                  his mark  O

Of our Lord one thousand seven hundred

Twenty & Six

Signed Sealled & Declared

In the presence of us

Witnesses

Joel Ellis

Joseph Bate

Thomas Darling

 

November the 6: 1727

Joel Ellis and Thomas Darling made oath that they saw the abovenamed Obadiah Eddy signe seal and heard him declare what is a above written to be a Codicill to the within written Will and that at the same time they together with Joseph Bate set to the hands as witnesses and that according to the best observation he then was of a sound and Disposing mind and memory—

                Before Isaac Winslow Judge of Probate

 

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Docket #7086, the will not recorded in the probate books, and the estate presumably never probated.

 

 

Will of Zachariah Eddy of Swansea, County of Bristol, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1718) *

In the name of God Amen: the thirty first day of August one Thousand Seven Hundred and Eighteen in the fifth year of the Reigne of our Souvereign Lord George of great Britain King &c: I Zachariah Eddy of Swansey in the County of Bristol in ye province of the Massachusets Bay in New England: being Sick and weak but of sound Disposing mind and memory blessed be the Lord for the same and knowing the uncertainty of this Life on Earth: and being desirous to settle things in order: do make and ordaine this my Last will and Testament: first of all I Commend my Soul to almighty God that gave it: and my body to be buryed in such Deacent Christen manner: at the Discreson of my wife Abigal: whom I Constitute and ordaine Sole Executrix of this my Last will and Testament: and Conserning my worldly Estate I dispose of followeth

Imprimis; I Leve: Abigal my sd wife in ye possesion of my homsteed hous and Land for her mantainence during her neturall Life: according as I Have Reseved in a deed of gift to my son Caleb Eddy bearing date January ye 27: 1710/11

also I give and bequeath to my sd wife all the moneys that I Have in my house: also Eight pounds money due to me from Rememberence Simmons: and five pounds money due to me from Robart Carr:

and in Referance to my Sons: Namly my son Zachariah Eddy: & my son John Eddy Ebenezer Eddy, Obadiah Eddy Caleb Eddy and Joshua Eddy: whom I Have possesed all of them with Lands: as may apear by deeds of gifts: and other Estate acording to my Abillity: all which I Confirm to my sd sons

also I give to my sd sons all that is now due or owing to me from them or any one of them: by bill, bounds or book: not to be demanded but the bounds to be delivered and Cenceled

also I give to my son Joshua Eddy my great bible

Itim I Have given to my daughter Elisabeth Whippil: Deceased: to the vallue of one Hundred pounds worth: first and Last: and also I give to my Son In Law Samuel Whipple: all that money belonging to me that is in his hands to be bestoed among my sd daughter Children

also I give and bequeath: all my Right of undevided Land in ye purchese of Shewamit in Swansey: to my two sons Obadiah Eddy and Joshua Eddy to them their heirs and assigns for Ever Equaly to be devided between them

Itim I give & bequath to my grandson Edward Eddy one single Right of Land in ye undevided in Swansey town purches to him his heirs and assigns for Ever: also I give him my Carbine

and I give my musket to my wifes son Timothy Smith

and I give my fouling gun to my son Caleb

and my Will is that my wife shall Have all the Rest of my houshold stuf to be at her Dispose amongst her Children or min as She Shall See Cause and I do hereby make void all other wills by me made: Ratifiing this to be my Last Will and Testement

Signed Sealed and Declared                                                                                              Zachariah Eddy

by the sd Zachariah Eddy to be                                                                                                                                                         (seal)

his Last will and Testement

the day & year above writen

In the presences of us –

        William Wood

        William Anthony

        Joseph Mason

 

Presented for probate on 29 Oct. 1718, and proved by the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Abigail Eddy widdow Relict of Zachariah Eddy late of Swanzey, on 29 Oct. 1718, with Joseph Mason and William Anthony, of Swanzey, as sureties.

 

The Inventory of Zachary Eddy of Swanzey was appraised on 19 Sept. 1718 by Theophelos Luther, William Wood, and William Anthony, and totaled £64.12.0, no real estate. Abigail Eddy, widow Relict of Zachariah Eddy, gave her oath to the inventory on 29 Oct. 1718.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Bristol County Probate File “Zachariah Eddy, Swansey, 1718,” from FHL microfilm #0575134.

 

 

Will of Adam Edson of Waterford, Saratoga County, New York (1832) *

        I Adam Edson of the Village of Waterford in the County of Saratoga & State of New York being of sound mind and memory do make & publish this my last will and testament in in manner and form following that is to say

I.  I give and bequeathe unto my beloved daughter Eliza wife of James J. Scote fifteen shares of the stock of the Merchants and Mechanics Bank of the City of Troy and forty Six dollars in Cash.

II.  I give and bequeathe unto my said daughter Eliza all and singular the household furniture, household stuff and wearing apparel which I may own and possess at the time of my death to have and to hold the aforesaid personal property and Bank Stock to her the said Eliza her heirs Executors Administrators and assigns absolutely and forever.

III.  All the rest and residue of my Bank Stock and personal property of Every description I give and bequeathe unto my beloved son Henry Edson to have and to hold the same to him the said Henry his heirs and assigns absolutely and forever

IV.  All my real estate I give and devise unto my Said Son Henry to have and to hold the same unto him the said Henry his heirs and assigns forever—Upon trust however to sell and convey the same upon such terms as he may think proper Either at public or private sale and the one third part of the avails thereof to pay over unto my said daughter Eliza for her proper use benefit and behoof forever

V.  The remaining two thirds of the above of all my real Estate so to be sold as aforesaid I give and bequeathe unto my Said Son Henry and to his legal representatives to his and their sole proper use benefit and behoof forever—

        Lastly I do hereby nominate Constitute and appoint my said son Henry Sole Executor of this my last will and testament hereby revoking and Annulling all former wills by me made—In Witness whereof I have hereunto Set my hand and Seal this third day of December A.D. one thousand Eight hundred and thirty two—

                                                                                                                                                Adam Edson                                      (seal)

        Signed Sealed published and declared by the testator to be his last Will and testament in the presence of us who at his request and in his presence and in the presence of Each other have subscribed our names as witnesses—     G. W. Kirtland of the town of Waterford in the County of Saratoga & State of New York,         Ira Taylor of the same place—

 

Probated on 23 June 1834, presented for probate by Henry Edson Esquire, the Sole Executor. The next of kin are listed as Henry Edson, George Edson, James J. Scote and Eliza his wife, and the will was proved by Ira Taylor and George W. Kirtland.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Record of Wills, Saratoga County, Book 9, p. 176-177, from FHL microfilm #0555719.

 

 

Will of Josiah Edson, Esq., of Bridgewater, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1733) *

In the Name of God Amen. The fifth day of Septembr in the Year of Our Lord 1733 ~

I Josiah Edson of Bridgewater in the County of Plymouth in New-England Esqr. being Sick & weak in Body but of a Sound Mind & Memory Thanks be to God therefor, And now Calling to Mind the Frailty & Mortality of my Body And knowing that it is appointed for all Men once to dy, do Make & Ordain this my last Will & Testament that is to Say, Principally & First of all, I Give & Recommend my Soul into the hands of God who gave it & my Body I Commit to the Earth to be decently buried at the Care & Discretion of my Executor hereafter named, And as touching Such Worldly Estate wherewith it hath pleasd God to bless Me in this Life I Give & Dispose of ye Same in the following Manner, that is to say-

1. First of all I Give unto my well beloved Wife Elizabeth Edson for her life & Improvement dureing her natural Life One half of my Dwelling house with all my Houshold Goods Excepting Some Particulars which I shall otherwise Dispose of hereafter Mentioned & also I Give unto her the Third Part of ye. Incomes of my Farm, and after her Decease I Give them to my Kinsman Capt. Josiah Edson —

2. I Give unto Sarah Edson the Wife of sd Josiah Edson my Silver Tankard —

3. I Give unto Josiah Edson the Son of ye. Abovenamed Josiah Edson all my Books of Divinity & all my Wearing Cloaths & twenty Pounds to be laid out in Books ~

4. I Give unto Abiezer Edson the Son of Josiah Edson one Yoke of oxen one Caliver Gun & a Cubline.

5. I Give unto Elijah Edson the Son of Josiah Edson one Yoke of oxen and my Small Gun with Brass about the Breech of it —

6. I Give unto Abiah Edson the Daughter of Josiah Edson one Cow —

7. I Give unto Huldah Edson & Freelove Edson to Each of them a Heifer of three years old wn. yy come of Age

8. I Give unto Elizabeth Hayward the Daughter of Nathaniel Hayward a Case of Drawers & one plain Chest and a feather which She now lies on and the furniture belonging to it

9. I have already Disposed of ye Greatest Part of my Lands by Deeds of Gift which I now ratify & Confirm in this my last Will & Testament, and the Remainder of my Estate which I have not Disposed of both real & personal I Give unto my Kinsman Capt. Josiah Edson his Heirs & assigns forever, and him the sd. Capt Josiah Edson I make ordain Constitute & Appoint to be my only & sole Executor of this my last Will & Testament ~

10. My Will is that the Revd. Mr John Angier & Joseph Pratt be appointed as Trustees to take Care that this my last Will be Accomplished & Fulfilled & I do hereby utterly Revoke & Disanull all my former Wills and Declare this & no other to be my last Will & Testament and In Witness & Confirmation hereof I have hereunto Set my hand & Seal the day & Year Abovewritten

Signed Sealed Published & Pronounced                                                                         Josiah Edson                     (seal)

by ye. sd. Josiah Esqr to be his last

Will & Testament In Presence

of us the Subscribers ~

Jonathan Cary

Ebenezer Snow

Nathanl. Willis junr

 

Probated on 21 Oct. 1734, and proved by Jonathan Cary, Ebenr Snow, and Nathaniel Willis junr, the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Capt. Josiah Edson, Kinsman to the deceased, and Sole Executor, on 11 Nov. 1734.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 7, p. 71-73, from FHL microfilm #0550513.

 

 

Will of Josiah Edson of Bridgewater, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1762) *

In The Name of God Amen. On the fourth day of January 1762, I Josiah Edson of Bridgwater in the County of Plimouth Gentm. being under bodily Infirmities but of a sound & disposing Mind & memory proceed to make this my last will & Testament. In the First I recommend my soul into the Hands of the great God that gave it trusting in the Mercy and Grace of God through Jesus Christ for Pardon Grace and Glory and my Body I commit to the Earth to be decently Buried at the Discression of my Executor hereafter named and as touching my worldly Estate I dispose of it in the following Manner (viz). With regard to my well beloved Wife Abigail I have already caused obligations to be given her by my Sons to her full Satisfaction of her part of my Estate both Real and Personal.

Item. I have already given to my Sons namely Josiah, Abiezer, & Elijah, Deeds of Land which I do hereby ratifie & confirm further I give unto them one half of my quick Stock i.e. one half The Sheep, & Swine the other half being my Son Elijah,s already, & my Horse & best Saddle, & Bridle, and one half my Hay and Fodder if there be any as also my apparel all to be equally divided between them.

Item. I give unto my Daughters namely Huldah Howard, Freelove Fobes, my grandaughter Sarah Holbrooke, Child of my Daughter Sarah, decease,d, and the Heirs of my Daughter Abiah deceas,d, to their Heirs, & Assigns, forever, my Tract of Land lying to the Eastward of Josiah Fobes,s Homestead and adjoining to it also my Purchase right in the sixth part of a purchase right of undivided Lands within ye Eight Miles of the Township of Bridgwater further I give unto them all my other Personal Estate not otherwise disposed of equally to be divided between them, (after the Debts & Funeral Charges are paid,) that is one quarter to said Huldah, one quarter to said Freelove, one Quarter to said Sarah Holbroke, and a quarter to the Heirs of said Abiah.—

Item. I give unto my sons Josiah and Elijah their Heirs & assigns my Eighth part of the Town Saw mill so called.

Item. I give unto my Grandson Abiezer Edson my Best Great Coat & my Black Mair & my other Saddle and Bridle.

Item. I give my Negro Servant Tom unto my Son Elijah, also my Gun—

Item. I nominate and appoint my sd. Son Josh. sole Excr. of this my last Will & Testamt.

Item. As there are several Pieces of Cloath that are appropriated to Several Members of the Family for Cloathing my Will is that they shall not come into the Inventory.

I give unto my sons Josiah, Abiezer & Elijah my Silver Tankard—

Signed Seald. Publishd. Pronouncd. & declard. by the                                                   Josiah Edson                                     (seal)

sd. Josiah Edson to be his last Will & Testamt.

                in Prescence of us.

Abishai Willis

Abel Edson

Isaac Swift

 

Presented for probate on 5 Apr. 1762 by Josiah Edson Esqr., the Exr. therein named, and proved by Abel Edson and Isaac Swift, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Josiah Edson Esqr., the Execr.

 

The Inventory of the Estate Real & Personal of Capt. Josiah Edson, late of Bridgwater, was appraised on 4 Feb. 1762 by John Washburn, Samuel Kinsley, and Nathan Mitchel, and totaled £464.9.10, including his land by Josiah Fobes given to the daughters valued at £280. The appraisers gave their oath to the inventory on 15 Mar. 1762, and the Executor gave is oath to the inventory on 5 Apr. 1762.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 16, p. 302-303, from FHL microfilm #0551543.

 

 

Will of Josiah Edson of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1813) *

        In the name of God amen. I Josiah Edson of Bridgwater in the County of Plymouth and Commonwealth of Massachusetts yeoman calling to mind the Uncertainty of human Life & being of sound Mind & Memory, do make & ordain this my last Will and Testament

        1st. I give & bequeath to my beloved Wife the whole of my household Furniture, except my Clock to be at her Disposal, also one third of my real Estate during Life provided my Son Barnabas should fail in supporting & maintaining her to her satisfaction, also one Cow & two Sheep, also the whole of my part of the Building during her widowhood she letting my two Daughters Reliance & Olive having the right to live in the House as long as they live single.—

        2dly. I give and bequeath to my Daughters Susanna Packard, Sarah Hayward, Reliance Edson & Olive Edson one third of the pew on the ground Floor in the southeast corner of the meeting house in the north precinct in Bridgwater in equal Shares. —

        3dly. I give & bequeath to my two Daughters Zilpah Kingman & Esther Kingman each, one sixth of a Pew in the front Gallery in the Meeting house above mentioned. —

        4th. I give & bequeath to my two Daughters, Reliance & Olive, to each of them Furniture for house keeping equal to what my other Daughters have had out of my Estate also each of them, one young Cow provided my Son Barnabas has not procured these for them before my decease, also the right to live in the House so long as they live single

        5th The Residue & Remainder of my Estate both real & personal, I give & bequeath to my Son Barnabas Edson his Heirs & Assigns forever he paying all my just Debts & funeral Charges, & providing Furniture & two young Cows for my two Daughters Reliance & Olive equal to what their Sisters have had; I also appoint him to be sole Executor to this my last Will & Testament, I hereby revoke all former Wills by me made declaring this to be my last Will & Testament, In witness whereof I have hereunto set my my hand & Seal this tenth day of June Anno domini one thousand eight hundred & thirteen –

  Signed sealed published & declared

  by the said Josiah Edson to be his last

  Will & Testament in presence of us who

  have hereunto subscribed our names as                                                                        Josiah Edson                                     (seal)

  Witnesses in presence of the Testator

                Nathan Alden

                Cyrus Warren

                Galen Warren

 

Presented for probate on 17 Jan. 1820 by Barnabas Edson, the Executor therein named, and proved by Nathan Alden Esqr. and Galen Warren, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Barnabas Edson, the before named Executor.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 50, p. 480-481, from FHL microfilm #0550906.

 

 

Will of Samuel Edson of Bridgewater, Colony of New Plymouth (1689) *

This fifteenth day of January in the year of our Lord one thousand Six hundred Eighty Eight—eighty nine I Samuel Edson Senr Inhabitant of the Town of Bridgwater in the County of Plimouth in New England Being of perfect understanding and memory Praysed be God for the Same Do make and Declare my last Will and Testament in manor and forme following Having already Disposed of moste of my Lands and a Great part of my Estate to my Children as By their Deeds Doth appear I do now will and Bequeath to my Eldest son Samuel Edson my Fowling piece and to my other two sons Joseph Edson and Josiah Edson my musket sword and Bandaleers.

Item I Give and Bequeath to my three sons Samuel Edson Joseph Edson and Josiah Edson to Each of them a Drought Chaine and also a Logg chain and all my wearing cloaths to be divided among them.

Item I Give and bequeath to my Loving Wife Susanna Edson all the Rest of my Estate Both Personall and Reall housing Lands Chattels and Cash all within Doors and Without whatsoever I have not Otherwise Disposed of to be Wholy at her Dispose during her naturall Life and what is Left at her decease and mine Either Housing Lands Chattels or Cash: all without doors to be Equally Divided among my three sons Samuel Edson Joseph Edson and Josiah Edson their heirs and Assigns And all within Doors all my houshold Goods and Cash to be Equally divided among my five Daughters Elizabeth Susanna Sarah Mary and Bethiah their heirs and assignes And I do hereby nominate and appoint my Loving Wife Susanna Edson to be my Executrix and my son Samuel Edson and my son Josiah Edson to be Joyned with her as Executors of this my Last Will and Testament And I Do further Will and desire Mr James Kieth John Kingman Senr and Thomas Snell of Bridgewater to be overseers of this my Last Will and Testament to See it faithfully performed hereby appointing my Executrix and my Executors above mentioned to Receive all my just debts and to pay what ever I owe any pson Discharging my funerals. In Witness whereof I the abovesaid Samuel Edson Senr have hereunto set my hand and Seal the day and year above written.

                                                                                                                                                Samuel Edson Senr                          (seal)

Readd Signed Sealed Published

and Declared to be his Last

Will and Testament in the

presence of us Witnesses

John Field

John Ames

Samuel Kinsley

 

John Ames and Samuel Kinsley two of The Witnesses here named made oath before the Court at Plimouth September ye 20th 1692 that they were present and saw the above named Samuel Edson sen now Deceased Sign Seal and heard him declare the above written to be his last will and Testament And that to the best of their Judgment he was of Sound mind and memory when he did the same

                                                                                                Attest Saml Sprague Clerk

 

The Inventory of Samuel Edson Senr who deceased the 19th day of july 1692: is as Followeth

[Total is £148.14.08]

And taken this 29th of july 1692: By Samuel Allin Senr and by William Brett

 

Samuell Edson and Josiah Edson the sons of sd Deceased made oath Before the Court at Plimouth September 20th 1692: That the above written is a true Inventory of the Estate of their Late Father Samuel Edson Deceased so far as they know and that if more shall be Discovered to them they will make it known.

                                                                                                Attest Saml Sprague Clerk

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 1, pp. 143, 144.

 

 

Will of Samuel Edson of Bridgewater, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1719) *

In The name of God amen this Sixteenth day of March In the year of Our Lord 1719 I Samuel Edson of Bridgwater in the County of Plymouth in New England Yeoman being Very Ill of body but of perfect mind and memory thanks be given to God therefor Calling to mind the Mortality of my body & knowing that it is appointed to all men Once to dye do make and Ordain this my last Will and Testament, That is to say principally & first of all I give and Recomend my Soul into the hands of God that gave it hoping through the Merrit death & passion of my Saviour Jesus Christ to have full and free pardon & forgiveness of all my Sins, and to Inherrit everlasting life; and my body I Commit to the earth to be decently buried at the discretion of my executor hereafter named Nothing doubting but at the Generall Resurrection I Shall Recieve the Same again by the mighty power of God, and as Touching such worldly estate as it hath pleased the Lord to Bless me withall I give demise and dispose of the Same in manner and form following.

Imprimis. I will that all those debts and duties that I do Owe in Right or in Conscience to any manner of person or persons whatsoever Shall be well and truly paid or Ordained to be paid in Some Convenient time after my decease by my executors hereafter named. ~

Item I give unto my beloved wife Susanah Sixty pounds in Silver money to be paid her by my Executor hereafter named, as also all my movables to be disposed of as she shall think fit; and the Improvement of the One half of my homestead or Homeliving during her Life, and the Improvement of my negroe man George, and my negro woman Sarah during her natural Life.

Item. I give unto my Grandson Samuel Packard his heirs and Assignes One hundred Acres of Land lying at a place Called Pochaug neck in Bridgwater aforesd. as also five or Six Small Titicut Lots adjoyning to the said hundred acres, as also a Lott of meadow lying at a place Called Calling Cove, as also the One half of five hundred acres of Land that I have in the Colony of Conecticut. All this I give unto said Grandson Samuel Packard his heirs and assignes; as also the One half of half a Share of Cedar Swamp in the West Cedar Swamp.

Item. I give unto my Two Grandsons Paul & Job Packard their Heirs and Assignes Two Lotts of Land near to the Land of Josiah Washbourn in Bridgwater Containing by estimation One hundred & fifty acres more or less; Also I give unto the sd. Paul & Job Packard each of them Ten pounds in Silver money; And further my Will is that if either of these Shall dye before he Shall Arrive unto Lawfull age that then the Other Survivor Shall have all the Lands and money abovenamed.

Item. I give unto my Grandaughter Bethiah Packard Twenty pounds in Silver money to be paid by my executor hereafter named and in Case She dye before She Come to Lawfull age then my Will is that said Twenty pounds be Equally divided between Paul And Job Packard her Two brothers.

Item I give unto my daughter Susanah Brett her Heirs & Assignes a Ten acre Lott of Land near to the Land whereon now she dwelleth as also a Small Lot of Land lying at the Head of their Lands as also a Lot of Land lying near the Land of Richard Jenings Containing by estimation Seventy five acres more Or less, and about Twenty four acres nigh to the Lands of John Kingman; As also the One half of a five hundred acre Right of Lands that I have in the Collony of Conecticut; also half of a Share of Cedar swamp in the West Cedar swamp; Also I give unto my daughter Susanah Bret after my wifes decease my negro Slave Sarah. I give also unto my daughter Susanah abovesd. one hundred & Twenty pounds in money partly paper and partly Silver, my said daughter Susanah Brett I Constitute Executrix to this my Last Will & Testament.

Item. I give unto my son Samuel Edson whome I appoint Executor to this my Last Will & Testament unto him and Children and their Children all my Homestead or Home living the One half at my decease the Other half at my wifes decease.

And all my other Lands meadow housing or Cedar swamp that I have not already given away also One hundred pounds in Silver money partly and partly paper Towards bringing up his Son Samuel to the Colledge, and in Case he Shall not be found Capable then any Other of his Sons but if he bring up no Son to the Colledge then my Will is that he Return fifty pounds of that hundred unto his sister Susanah Brett or her heirs. I give also unto my sd. Son my negro man George after my wifes decease; and farther my Will is that if after all the abovesd Sums be paid if their remain any money that then it be equally divided between my son Samuel and my daughter Susanah but for the use of their Children. And I do hereby utterly Revoak and disanull all Other former Wills Confirming this and no Other as my last Will and Testament. In Witness and Confirmation hereof I have set to my hand and Seale the day and year above written.                                                                                                                                                                                                              his

Signed Sealed published pronounced & declared                                                         Samuel   X  Edson                               (seal)

by the said Samuel Edson to be his last Will &                                                                             Mark

Testament In presence of us the Subscribers

Benjamin Allen

Samuel Washbourn Junr.

Benjamin Leonard

 

Mr. Benjamin Allen testified on 27 July 1719 that he soposed Samuel Edson was of a sound and disposing mind and memory when he signed his will.

Samuel Washbourn Junr., of Bridgewater, testified on 27 July 1719 that Samuel Edson was not of a sound mind and memory when he signed his will.

Benjamin Leonard testified on 7 Sept. 1719 that he witnessed the signing of the will, “but doubts whether he was of a disposing mind when he did so by Reason he seemed to me to Lay in a Stupified Condition.”

Comfort Willis also testified on 2 Nov. 1719 that he was present at the signing of the will, as was desired to Subscribe as an evidence, but desired to be excused by reason of age & Infirmity, but thought he was perfect in mind & memory.

Experience Hudson also testified on 2 Nov. 1719 that she was present at the signing of the will, and that he was of a sound mind.

The will was finally approved on 1 Feb. 1719[/20], and letters of administration were given to Samuel Edson, the Executor, and Susanah Brett, the Executrix.

 

The Inventory of the personal Estate of Mr. Samuel Edson of Bridgwater who deceased April 10th 1719, was appraised by Nathaniel Brett, William Hudson, and Comfort Willis, but was not totaled, included £255 in Bills of publick Credit. Mr. Samuel Edson and Mrs. Susanah Brett gave their oath to the inventory on 13 July 1720.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 4, p. 260-263, from FHL microfilm #0550510.

 

 

Will of Susanna Edson of Bridgewater, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1732) *

In the Name of God Amen, October ye fourth Anno Dom. 1732, I Susanna Edson Relict of Samuel Edson late of Bridgwater in ye County of Plymouth in New England Deceas’d Do make & ordain this my Last Will and Testament in manner and form as followeth  First I Recommend my Soul to God that gave it & my body to the Earth in Decent Christian burial at ye. Discretion of my Execrs. hereafter named – And as for my Estate which was left to my Free dispose at my husbands death, and what I have Gained Since, My Will is that it be disposed of (after my Just debts & funerall Expences are Paid in manner following –

Imprimis I Give to my Son Samuel Edson my house which I built after my husbands Decease as allso two Cows & ten Sheep which I left in his hands when I Removed to my Daughter Susanna Bertts as allso an Iron Barr, a Sledge, & a Chair all which I give I give to him his Heirs and assigns forever –

Item I give to my Grandson Samuel Packard Seven pounds in money which formerly I Expensed towards the Secureing of his land at Purchas Neck.

Item I give to my two other Grandsons vizt Paul Packard & Job Packard Each of them a Sheep or Lamb –

Item Item I Give to my Grand Daughter Bethiah Bartlett a Cow & Calf a Pewter platter & a Silver spoon, all which she hath allready receivd also Six pounds in bills of Creditt to be paid to her after my Decease.

Item all the Rest of my Stock and Houshold Goods of Every sort & kind and all my money whether Silver or bills of Creditt (if any be left after My Decease) with all Debts due to me I Give and bequeath to my Daughter Susanna Brett to be to her and her heirs & assigns forever. And furthermore I Give To my sd. Daughter Susanna Brett my little Negro Girl Phebee to be wholly at My sd. Daughters dispose till thirty years of Age ~ Finally I Nominate and Appoint my Grandson John Brett my Executor and my sd. Daughter Susanna Brett Executrix of this my last Will and Testament –

Signed Sealed Published Pronounced

& Declared by the sd. Susanna Edson                                                                            Susanna Edson

In Presence of us.                                                                                                her  Q  marke                      (seal)

Joseph Edson

Joseph Cary

Thomas  X  Buck

 

Probated on 20 May 1742, and proved by Joseph Edson, Joseph Cary, and Thomas Buck. Letters of Administration granted to John Brett and Susanna Brett, both of Bridgwater, Joynt Executors.

 

Joseph Edson, John Lathrop, and Samuel Hartwell, all of Bridgwater, were appointed to appraise the estate both Real and Personal of Susanna Edson, late of Bridgwater, on 18 May 1742. The Inventory was dated 21 May 1742, but not totaled. The appraisers gave their oaths to the inventory on 24 May 1742, and John Brett and Susanna Brett, the Executors, gave their oath to the inventory on 7 June 1742.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 8, p. 524-525, and Vol. 9, p. 14-15.

 

 

Will of Joel Ellis of Plympton, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1803) *

In the Name of God Amen.— I Joel Ellis of Plymton in the County of Plymouth & Comwealth of Massachusetts, yeoman, being weak in body, but of perfect mind & memory, thanks be given to God therefor, calling into mind the mortality of my body, & knowing that it is appointed for all men once to die, do make & ordain this my last will & testament, and desire it may be recieved by all as such; that is to say, principally & first of all, I give & recomend my soul into the hands of God who gave it, & my body I recommend to the earth to be buried in decent christian burial, at the discretion of my Executor hereafter named, nothing doubting but at the general resurrection, I shall recieve ye same again by the mighty power of God; and as touching such worldly estate wherewith it hath pleased God to bless me in this life, I give, demise & dispose of the same in ye following manner & form—

Imprimis.—I Give & bequeath to my truly beloved wife Annis Ellis, the use & improvement of one third part of all my real estate, excepting the meadow I bought of Chandler Wright, together with one half of my dwelling house vizt. the northerly part of sd house, including the front room, the bed room, half the kitchin & half the cellar & half the buttery in ye southerly part of sd house; also, one quarter of my barn & one quarter of all my other out buildings; and also, a seat for her own use in my Pew in the meeting house, together with the use & improvement of all my houshold furniture—the whole of the above so long as she shall continue or remain my widow—I also, give & bequeath to my wife Annis Ellis & to her heirs & assigns forever, one of my Cows that, which she shall see fit to chuse, & a bridle coloured year & vantage heifer & four sheep & one swine.

Item.—I Give & bequeath to my son Joel Ellis & to his heirs & assigns forever, one half of all my real estate, together with one half of my dwelling house–vizt. the southerly or new part of sd house, including the front room, half the kitchin, the bedroom & half the buttery & half the cellar, also one half of my barn & one half of all my other out buildings, & also one half of my Pew in the meeting house, I also give & bequeath to my son Joel & to his heirs & assigns, all my farming tools & utensills together with my largest yoke of oxen, my horse, one store cow, two year & vantage heifers & my part of a dun coloured heifer, & all the rest of my sheep not before disposed of.

Item.—I Give & bequeath to my two sons–vizt Nathaniel Ellis & Thomas Ellis & to their heirs & assigns forever, all the rest & residue of all my real estate, not before disposed of in this my last will & testament, that is to say, one half of all my lands, together with one half of my dwelling house, one half of my barn & one half of all my other out buildings, and also one half of my Pew in the meeting house, all which is to be equally divided between them the said Nathaniel & Thomas — I also give to my son Nathaniel one store Cow, & to my son Thomas, I give & bequeath my smallest yoke of oxen

Item.—I Give & bequeath to my three sons Joel, Nathaniel & Thomas, all my wearing apparell in equal division among them.

Item.—I Give & bequeath to my four Daughters vizt. Patience Wright, Selah Wright, Phebe Parker & Mira Loring & to their heirs & assigns, all my houshold furniture, after the decease of my wife, or otherwise, when she shall cease to be my widow; and I do hereby order my sons Joel & Nathaniel, to pay my three Daughters vizt– Patience Wright Selah Wright & Phebe Parker, Sixty Dollars, that is to say Twenty Dollars to each one of them, in two years after my decease, one half of said sum to be paid by my son Joel Ellis & the other half by my son Nathaniel Ellis; and I do further order my son Thomas Ellis to pay my Daughter Mira Loring Twenty Dollars, in two years after my decease,

And my will is, and I do positively order my three sons Joel, Nathaniel & Thomas, to pay all my just debts & funeral expences equally between them, and also; to recieve all my dues, debts & demands in the same proportion amongst them—and I do further order, that, if any or either of my children above named, shall make or bring any demand against my said estate, for services by them done & performed or in any other way, they shall be utterly debar’d & excluded from all & every bequeath or legacy contained in this my last will & testament.

Lastly, – I do constitute, make & ordain my Son Joel Ellis sole Executor of this my last will & testament, and do hereby, utterly, disallow, revoke & disannul, all & every other former will & testament, legacies, bequeaths & Executors by me, in any way heretofore named, willed and bequeathed, ratifying & confirming this & no other to be my last will & testament.—In Witness whereof, I have hereunto set my hand & seal, this seventeenth day of January in ye year of our Lord, One thousand Eight Hundred and three.

Signed, Sealed, Published, Pro-                                                                                        Joel Ellis                                             (seal)

nounced & declared by ye said

Joel Ellis, as his last will & tes-

ment, in presence of us the sub-

scribers.–

                Elijah Bisbe junr

                Jonathan Nye

                Beza Bisbe

 

Presented for probate on 1 Aug. 1803 by Joel Ellis, the Executor therein named, and proved by Elijah Bisbe Esqr. & Jonathan Nye, two of the witnesses.

 

Steph. Ellis, Gentm, Elijah Bisbee Esqr. & Geo. Sampson, yeoman, all of Plymton, were appointed to appraise the estate of Joel Ellis, late of Plymton, yeoman, on 1 Aug. 1803. The Inventory, dated 3 Oct. 1803, totaled $2512.24, his real estate totaled $2107.00, including his homestead farm & buildings valued at $1981. Joel Ellis, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 3 Oct. 1803.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 38, pp. 354-356, 402-403, from FHL microfilm #0550720.

 

 

Will of Ignatious Elmes of Middleborough, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1763) *

In the name of God Amen I Ignatious Elmes of Midleborough In the County of Plimouth & Province of the Massachusets Bay In New Engld. Yeoman being of a Sound mind and Disposing Judgment and Good Memory but Sensable I mus Die do mak appoint & ordain this To be my Last will & Testament My Immortal & Never Dieng Soul I Commit unto God hooping The he through the merrets of the Blood of Jesus Crist will Receve my Departing Spirit my Body I Commit unto The Dust to be buried at the Discresition of My Executor hereafter named and as To my worldly goods where with God has blessed me I Dispose of as follows

Imprimis My will is that all my Just Debts & funeral Charges be honestly & Truly paid by my Execr. out of my moveable Estate

Item My will is and I do hereby Give unto my well beloved Son Elkanah Elmes All that Land where on his house now Stands Where he now Lives from the Brook to the northward of his sd. house by the Cuntry Road westerd untel you Come to ye. Town Road Leading from ye. wadeing place in Namasket River to Capt. Bennets mill so Called and Thence by Road Southerly until you Come to the midle of the gravely hil where was an old apple Tree and from thence Easterly a Cross my farm home To a Stake and Stones Standing in the Range of The Minestery Land a Little To the Northward of the Corner Bounds of old mr. Thacher Land being a Stake & Stones & from sd. Corner bounded by the Minestery Land home To the Land formerly owned by Doctr. Palmer of sd. Town. & by his Line Down To the Cuntry Rhoad first mentioned as also all the household Goods as also all the house hold goods I had a Deed of Sail of Some Time ago

Item To my Dear Son John Elmes I will and Bequeth all the Remainder of of that part of my farm Lying to the Southward of Said Road & the Easterd of the Town Road above mentioned upward untill you Come To the way Just Above the Dug way & so by said way or old Path as it goes up to the Land formerly owned by Jeremiah Thomas of sd. Midleborough.

Item My Dwelling house & the Remainder Part of my home farm my will is that my Dear Wife Sarah Elmes have the Improvement of the Same for the maintenance of my Dear Son Ebenezer & Dear & only Brother Rodulpus Elmes of sd. Midleborough who I Desire may be Carefully Taken Care of In my home & Comfortably Taken Care of in my house & Comforately[?] may be provided for and after his & hir Deaths Equally Equally Divided Subducting what is already given out of yr Shears

Item All my moveable Estate within Doars and without after my Debts & funeral Charges be Paid I give To my wife for the use Last Mentioned

Item My will is and I Do hereby Constitute & appoint my Dearly beloved frind mr Nehemiah Bennet to be the Sole Executor of this my Last will & Testament

In Witness and Confirmation whereof I have hereunto set my hand and Seal this Third Day of Feby. AD 1763

                                                                                                                                                Ignatous Elmes                 (seal)

Signed Sealed Published & Pronounced

& Declared by the sd. Ignatious Elmes to

be his Last will & Testament In

Presence of us

Steaphan Powers

Oxenbridg Thacher

Samll. Thacher

 

Presented for probate on 8 Mar. 1763, and proved by oxenbridge Thacher and Samuel Thacher, two of the witnesses. Whereas Nehemiah Bennet the only Executor there in named having this day Renounced the Executorship thereof I do Commit the Administration thereof Cum Testamento Annexo unto Sarah Elmes of Midleborough, widdow of the said deceased, on 15 March 1763.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 16, p. 409-410, from FHL microfilm #0551543.

 

 

Will of Rodulphus Elmes of Middleborough, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1744) *

Know all Men By these Presents that I Rodulphus Elmes of the Town of Middleborough in the County of Plimouth in New England Being at this present Time Laboring under maney Bodley Infermites yet of a Sound and Disposing memory and under standing Blessed Be God for the Same and being Senceable of my own mortallity and Knowing that it is appointed for all men once to Die do make and ordain this To Be my Last Will and Testement To Remain firm and Invoilable for Ever.— Imprimas It is my Will that all my Just Debts and Funerail Charges be Well and Truly paid out of my Estate By my Executor hereafter named in Convenent Time after my Decease:  Item I give and Bequeath unto my Well Beloved Wife Bethyah Elmes one Feather Bed two pair of Sheets two Pillows and Two Pillow Cases and all other Furnature Belonging to a Bed Need full and necessary as She Shall Chuse and think fit also I give unto my Said Wife the use & Improvement of the Westerly Lower fier Room of my New Dwelling House the W[? ink blot] by Lean to and Leanto Chamber and also the Westerly Chamber over the said Fire Room and also that part of the Cellar which is under the said Westerly Lean to During her Widdowhod also I give unto my said Wife my Negro woman and also one cow During her Weddowhood: It is my Will that my Son Ignatious Elmes Shall keep and Look after Said Cow for his mother Both Winter and Sumer During her Widdow hood also it is my Will that my Said Son Ignatious Shall Find and allow his mother Sufficient fire Wood Brought To the Door and Cut Fit for the Fier as She Shall want it During her Widdowhood: also I give unto my Said Wife the use and Improvement of one quarter part of the Improved Lands Belonging to my Homsted Whereon I Dwell Lying on the Easterly Side of Namasket River and also the use & Improvement of one third part of my Improved Lands Lying on the Westerly Side of said Namasket River During her Widdowhood also I Give and Bequeath unto my Said Wife one quarter part of all the Remaining part of my moveable Estate after my Just Debts and and Funerail Charges are First paid out of the Whole To Be at her own Disposing,  Item I Give and Bequeath unto My Son Rodulphus Elmes all my Severail Lots of Land Both Improved and un Improved Lying and Being in the Settle Lotments puchase so called on the Westerly Side of Namasket River in the Townshep of Middleborough aforesaid only Rezerfing unto his Mother the use and Improvement of the one third part of all the Improved Lands thereon During her Widdowhood as abovesaid the Same To belong unto him and his heirs and assigns forever also I Give unto my sd Son Rodulphus Elmes the Bed on Which he usualy Lodgeth with Convenent Beding thereto— Item I Give unto my Son Ignatous Elmes all my Homsted Lands Both improved and unimproved Which Ly their adjoyning Together Whereon I now Dwell With the Bildings thereon on the Easterly Side of Namasket River in the Township of Middleborough aforesaid only Reserveing unto his mother the use and Improvement of those Rooms in the Dwelling House Which I have Given her the Improvement of During her Widdowhood. also Reserveing unto his said Mother the use and Improvement of quarter part of the Improved Lands thereof During her Widdowhood the same To Belong unto him and his heirs and assigns forever: Item: Whereas I have allredy Given unto my Two Daughters Mary Warshburn and Kathrine Carver the Value of Forty pounds To Each of them which they had at the time of there marriages: Item: I Give and Bequeath unto my Daughter Beathyah Barden Besides What I have heretofore Given her all my meadow Which Lyeth in the Meaddows Called the Lower Meddows in the Twenty Sixth mens purches in the Town Ship of Middleborough aforesaid To belong unto her and her Heirs and assigns forever: also I Give unto my said Daughter Bethyah Barden the Sum of Four pounds and Five Shillings in Lawfull money to be paid unto her Within one year after my Decease and my Will is that my aforesd Son Ignatious Shall pay the Same as a Legacy unto her: Item: I Give and Bequeath unto my three Daughters mary Warshburn Kathrine Carver and Bethyah Barden all the Remaining part of My Moveable Estate Besides What I Have Before Disposed of To Be Equally Divided Between them and also I Give unto my Said three Daughters all all that part of my Moveable Estat Which I have given unto my Wife During her Widdowhood that is to Say What is Remaining thereof at the Time of her marriage or Decease the Same also to Be Equally Divided Between them: Lastly my Will is that my son Rodulphus Elmes Shall Be Executor of this my Last Will and Testement thus Hoping that this my Last Will and Testement Will be Keept and performed according To the True Intent and Meaining there of: I Commit my Body To the Dust and my Soule To God that Gave it: In Witness Whereof I the aforesaid Rodulphus Elmes have hereunto Set my hand and Seal this Twenty Fifth Day of June one Thousand Seven Hundred forty four—

Signed Sealed and Declaird By The

above Named Rodulphus Elmes To                                                                                 Rodulphus Elmes             (seal)

Be his Last Will and Testement in the

Presents of us~~~

Nathll Southworth

Ebenezer Morton

Jacob Tomson

 

Presented for probate on 25 Jan. 1748, the Executor therein named Renouncing the Executorship, and proved by Nathll Southworth, Ebenezer Morton, and Jacob Tomson, no letters of administration were granted at that time.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 12, p. 318-321, from FHL microfilm #0551539.

 

 

Will of Benjamin Estey of Stoughton, County of Suffolk, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1744) *

In the Name of God Amen, The twenty eighth day of August, In the year of our Lord One Thousand, Seven hundred and forty four, I Benjamin Estey of Stoughton in the County of Suffolk in New England, Yeoman, being Under the Infirmities of Old Age, & some Indispositions of Body, but of Perfect Mind and Memory, Thanks be Given unto God therefore, Calling to Mind the Mortality of my Body & knowing that it is appointed for Men once to Die Do make & ordain this my last Will & Testament, That is to say, Principally & first of all I give and recommend my Soul into the Hands of God that Gave it ~ hoping thro’ the Merrits, Death and Passion of my Saviour Jesus Christ to have full and free Pardon & forgiveness of all my Sins & to Inherit Everlasting Life & my Body I commit to the Earth to be decently buried at the Discretion of my Executors hereafter named, nothing Doubting but at the General Resurrection I shall receive the same again by the Mighty Power of God, & as touching such Worldly Estate wherewith it hath Pleased God to bless me in this Life I Give Demise & Dispose of the same in the following manner and form, that is to say first, I Will that all those Debts & Dutys as I do Owe in Right or Conscience to any manner of Person or Persons whatsoever shall be well & truly Contented and Paid or Ordained to be paid in convenient time after my Decease by my Executors hereafter named.  Item I give and Bequeath to Mary my dearly beloved Wife the Use of one Room in my House & a Priviledge in the Cellar And the use of all the Moveables, in the House during her Life, And the Use of one Cow, which Cow my Executors are to provide and keep Winter and Summer, and I will that my two Executors in Equal Halves Provide Seven Bushells of Indian Corn, and four Bushells of Rye, and One hundred weight of Good Pork, Sixty Pounds of Beef, and Eight pounds of Flax and Six Pounds of Wool for my Now Wife yearly, and every Year, and what Wood she shall have Occasion for, and if she shall have Occasion for any other things which is necessary For her Comfortable Subsistence, I Will that my Executors Provide the same for her as long as she see Cause to live in the House I have Willed to her.  Item I Give to my Well beloved Sons Benjamin Estey & Ebenezer Estey Whom likewise I Appoint, Constitute Make & Ordain joyntly to be my Executors of this my last Will & Testament & all and Singular my Lands, Messauges and Tenements with all and Singular Moveables by them & their Heirs & Assigns to be Possessed forever in equall halves (Vizt.) to be divided in equal halves to Each of my Executors with my Wearing Apparel to be equally divided to my Executors at my Decease, and at the Decease of my Wife, my Son Benjamin shall have my Great Bible, & the one half of all the remainder part of my Books I Will to my Son Ebenezer at the Decease of my Wife.  Item I Give to my well beloved Daughter Elizabeth Howard at the Decease of my Wife the remainder part of my Books not already disposed of & all the Moveables In the House & one Cow, which Cow, my Executors are to Provide for my said Daughter,  And I do hereby utterly Disallow, Revoke & Disannul all & every other former Testaments Wills, & Legacies, Bequests & Executors by me in any Ways before this time Named, Willed & bequeathed, ratifying & Confirming this & no other to be my last Will & Testamt. In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my Hand & Seal, the Day & year above written.                                                            Benjamin Estey   & a Seal

Signed, Sealed, Published, Pronounced & declared

by ye sd Benja Estey as his last Will & Testamt in ye

presence of us the Subscribers Vizt —

Benja Johnson, Ephraim Payson junr, Isaac Johnson

 

Probated on 17 April 1750, and proved by Benjamin Johnson, Ephraim payson junr, & Isaac Johnson.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Suffolk County Probate Vol. 43, p. 494-496, from FHL microfilm #0493869.

 

 

Will of Noble Everitt of Wareham, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1802) *

In the name of God amen I Noble Everitt of Wareham in the County of Plymouth & Commonwealth of Massachusetts do make this my last Will and Testament in the Manner following, viz –

In the first place I commit my Soul to God who gave it & my Body to the dust to be decently buried, and with regard to the worldly substance with which God has blessed me

        I give and bequeath all my household Furniture to my beloved Wife Abigail Everitt, and my Will is that all my just debts including my funeral Expences should be paid out of the remainder of my moveable Estate if sufficient, and if not that the rest be paid out of my real Estate.—this being done, I give and bequeath one third part of all my other moveable Estate (if any be left after my Debts are paid) to my Wife Abigail Everitt– Also I give her the use of one half of my real Estate, after my Debts are paid for her own use so long as she remains my Widow, & one third part of it during her natural Life—

        The remainder of my Estate of whatever kind it may be, I give & bequeath to my Children, to a Son two parts & to a Daughter one part, that is to say, to my Daughter Abigail Everitt one Dollar to my Son William Everitt two Dollars, to my Son Josiah Everitt two Dollars, to my Daughter Lucy Everitt one Dollar, to my Daughter Hannah Everitt one Dollar, to my Daughter Eunice Everitt one Dollar to my Son Noble Everitt two Dollars & to my Son John Lord Everitt two Dollars—

  and should a Child or Children of my Body be hereafter born, my Will is that such should have the same proportional part of my Estate as the rest, i,e, if a Son two Dollars & if a Daughter one Dollar. –

        Also I give my Executors hereafter named full power to sell all my real Estate, & to purchase with the Effects of it a Farm more suitable for my Family, than that which I may be possessed of at my Death, And should my Executors thus sell my real Estate & buy another Farm for my Heirs (as I think it would be best that they should) my Will is, that each of my Heirs should possess & inherit the same thus purchased for them, as if I had died owner & possessor of the same.—

        I ordain & appoint the Revd. Lemuel LeBaron & my Wife Abigail Everitt Executors to this my last Will; – provided nevertheless, should my Son William Everitt arrive to the Age of twenty one years before my Death or with thirty days after, I appoint him the said William Executor in the room of the said Lemuel LeBaron.—

Signed sealed & pronounced this fifteenth day of

February one thousand eight hundred & two,

in presence of –

                Abigail White

                Lucy S. Nye                                                                                                          Noble Everitt                                     (seal)

                Lucinda Fearing

                Nathl Standish

 

Presented for probate on 7 Feb. 1820 by Abigail Everitt and William Everitt, the Executors therein named, and proved by Lucy T. Nye and Nathaniel Standish, two of the Witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Abigail Everitt and William Everitt, the before named Executors.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 50, p. 490-491, from FHL microfilm #0550906.

 

 

Will of Josiah Everson of Kingston, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1843) *

Know all men, That I Josiah Everson of Kingston in the County of Plymouth, do make this my last will and Testament viz.

        First whereas my present wife Lois possessed at the time of my intermarriage with her Certain articles of Furniture and some money at Interest for which she had Notes payables to her, now I hereby give and devise to my said wife in case she should survive me all said Articles of Furniture and the money which may remain due on said notes payable to her, or any new Notes which may be hereafter taken by her or me in payment of the aforesaid Notes so belonging to her before our intermarriage. Second. I also give and devise to my said beloved wife Lois the sum of five hundred dollars to be paid in twelve months after my deceas. I also give and devise to my said wife the improvement of the easterly half of my house her natural life with the privilege of going out and in both doors and likewise a privilege in the wood house & seller. I also give my said wife the improvement of a certain piece of land her natural life bounded as follows beginning at the east corner of the house running parallel with the house to the land of Pelham Brewster from thence to the lower end of the orchard from thence across the foot of the orchard untill abreast of the front door from thence up to the front door.

I also give the following Articles of Furniture to my said wife, our (can’t read), best Table, best work stand, best Looking Glass seven best chairs Bed and best bedstead, one fourth of all the Bedding which belongs to me best carpet and also Twenty five dollars in cash for the use of her money And after the payment of all my just debts, Funeral Charges and the expenses of administration I leave all that remains to my three boys Thomas Bicknall, Sidney Everson Charles Everson to be divided equally

        I also appoint Thomas Bicknall, Sidney Everson Executors of my last Will and Testament.

        In witness of all which I have hereunto set my hand and seal this 23d. day of May A. D. 1843

                                                                                                                                                Josiah Everson                 (seal)

Signed sealed and published by Josiah Everson as his last will in our presence.

                Cephas Wadsworth

                Seth T. Winsor

                Lorinda Briggs

 

Presented for probate on the second Monday of August 1843 by Thomas Bicknell and Sidney Everson, the Executors therein named, and proved by Cephas Wadsworth and Seth J. Winsor, two of the witnesses. Letters Testamentary were granted to Thomas Bicknall and Sidney Everson, the Executors.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 85, p. 336-337, from FHL microfilm #0555268.

 

 

Will of Samuel Everson of Kingston, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1831) *

In the name of God Amen  I, Samuel Everson of Kingston in the County of Plymouth and Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Gentleman being in good health and perfect memory do this thirty first day of August Anno Domini one thousand eight hundred thirty one make & publish this my last Will and Testament in manner following that is to say Imprimis.

1st  I give & bequeath unto my heirs at Law a certain piece of Land adjoining my brother Joseph Everson’s Land which was set off to me from my Grandfather John Everson’s Estate containing about sixteen acres –

2d.  I give & bequeath unto my heirs and the heirs of Benjamin Cook of Kingston deceased, all the Remainder of my Property both Real and Personal to be equally divided among them at my decease after paying all my just debts, and funeral Charges. —

        And I do Constitute and appoint Cyrus Benson of South Bridgewater in sd County to be my sole Executor of this my last Will and Testament revoking all former Wills.

                In testimony whereof I do hereunto set my hand and seal the day and year above written.

                                                                                                                                                Samuel Everson                (seal)

Signed, sealed, published & pronounced & declared by the said Saml.

Everson to be his last Will & testament, in presence of us who at his re-

quest and in his presence hereunto set our names as witnesses to the

Same—         Zenas Bryant Jr.

                        Thomas Lanman

                        James E. Cushing

 

Probated on 2 Dec. 1833, and proved by Zenas Bryant Jr. and Thomas Lanman, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration given to Cyrus Benson of Bridgewater, yeoman.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 74, p. 538-539, from FHL microfilm #0555262.

 

 

Will of Benjamin F. Faunce of Minot, Androscoggin County, Maine (1856) *

                                Will of Benjamin F. Faunce,

                I Benjamin F. Faunce of Minot in the County of Androscoggin & State of Maine, Knowing the uncertainty of life & being desirous of Controling the disposal of my property, do make publish and declare the following as my last Will and Testament.

                                1st. I give & bequeath to my son Alvin W. Faunce, twenty five dollars, & also to my daughter Lucy Anna Faunce, the Sum of twenty five dollars.

                                2d. After paying all my Just debts & expenses of Probate of this my last Will and Testament, I give and bequeath to my Wife Sarah Abigail all the residue of my property, of whatever description, whether real, personal or mixed.

                                Lastly, I Constitute & appoint my Said wife Sarah Abigail, Sole Executrix of this my last Will and Testament.

                                                                                                In testimony whereof I have hereunto Set my hand & Seal this fourth day of June A.D. one thousand, eight hundred and fifty six

                                                                                                                                                Benjamin F. Faunce                       (seal)

        Signed & sealed by the said Benjamin F. Faunce, & by him declared to be his last Will and Testament and in presence of each other at the Same time Subscribed our names as witnesses.

                Wm Lowell

                Nancy Faunce

                Isaac B. Goodwin

 

Presented for probate by Sarah A. Faunce, the Executrix, on the second Tuesday of Aug. 1855 [sic], and proved by William Lowell, one of the subscribing witnesses.

 

Sarah A. Faunce, of Minot, was granted Letters Testamentary as Executrix of the last Will and Testament of Benjamin F. Faunce, late of Minot, on the second Tuesday of Aug. 1856.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Androscoggin County Probate Records Vol. 1, p. 294, from FHL microfilm #010529, Probate of Wills Vol. 1, p. 45, and Letters Testamentary Vol. 1, p. 33.

 

 

Will of Charles A. Faunce of Brockton, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1875) *

Be it remembered that I Charles A. Faunce of Brockton in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, being of sound mind and memory, but knowing the uncertainty of this life, do make this my last will and testament.

After the payment of my just debts and funeral charges, I bequeath and devise as follows.

I give, devise and bequeath to my brother Anthony P. Faunce the sum of five hundred dollars to have and to hold to him and his heirs forever.

I give, devise and bequeath to my brother William F. Faunce the sum of one hundred dollars to have and to hold to him and his heir’s forever.

I give, devise and bequeath all the residue of my estate, real, personal and mixed of which I shall die seized or possessed or to which I shall become entilled in any manner at the time of my decease, to such trustee as shall be appointed by the Probate Court of the County of Plymouth in said Commonwealth, to have and to hold to him and his heirs forever, in trust nevertheless for the following uses and purposes, viz.

First—to invest said residue and pay over the net income thereof to my mother Juliet Faunce, for and during the term of her natural life

Second. Upon the decease of my said mother to pay over said residue to my brothers Leonard Faunce, Albert Faunce, Anthony P. Faunce, and William F. Faunce share and share alike, to have and to hold to them and their heirs forever.

        I nominate William Perry of Brockton to be the Executor of this will, and I request that he shall be exempt from giving surety or sureties on his bond as executor, and I further nominate said William Perry to be the trustee above named and request that he be exempt from giving surety or sureties on his bond as trustee.

        In testimony whereof I hereunto set my hand, and in the presence of three witnesses declare this to be my last will, this thirteenth day of September in the year one thousand eight hundred and seventy five.

                                                                                                Charles A. Faunce                                              (seal)

On this thirteenth day of September A.D. 1875, Charles A. Faunce of Brockton, Massachusetts, signed the foregoing instrument in our presence, declaring it to be his last will, and as witnesses thereof we three do now at his request, in his presence, and in the presence of each other hereto subscribe our names, twelve words erased before signing.

                                                                                                Charles W. Sumner

                                                                                                Susan B. Crosby

                                                                                                Gideon M. Washburn

 

Presented for probate on the fourth Monday of December 1875 by William Perry, of Brockton, with L. D. Hervey and L. H. Shaw, of Brockton, as sureties. Letters Testamentary were granted to William Perry on 10 Jan. 1876.

 

George H. Jameson, Benjamin Ellis Eaton, and William A. Sanford were appointed to appraise the estate of Charles A. Faunce, late of Brockton, on 27 Dec. 1875. His real estate was appraised at $400.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 141, p. 525-526, from FHL microfilm #0556648, Vol. 133, p. 327, and Vol. 145, p. 65.

 

 

Will of Eleanor Faunce of Kingston, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1816) *

        In the name of God amen. I Eleanor Faunce of Kingston Single-woman being weak in Body but of disposing Mind and Memory blessed be Almighty God for the same, do make & publish this my last Will and Testament in manner and form following, that is to say.—

        1. First I give and bequeath unto my Sisters Hannah Faunce, Joanna Cook & Sarah Faunce the Improvement of all my real Estate during their natural Lives, with power to sell the whole, or any part, if necessary for their comfortable support, & in case of the Death of either of them before or after my decease the Survivors or Survivor of said Sisters to have the Improvement & right of sale as aforesaid—

        2d. I give & bequeath to my sister Lydia Cook Wife of Josiah Cook and to the Heirs of my Sister Molly Cook deceased all my Woodland that was set off to me in the Division of the Estate of my Brother John Faunce Esqr. deceased which lies in that Tract of Land set off to my said Brother in the Division between him & the Heirs of John Sever, provided said Land is not disposed of by my Sisters aforesaid during their Lives.—

        3d. I give & bequeath all my other real Estate not otherwise disposed of which I may leave at the time of my decease, or the decease of my sisters Hannah Faunce, Joanna Cook & Sarah Faunce, to be equally divided between my Brothers Eliezer Faunce & Elijah Faunce after the decease of all my said Sisters aforesaid.—

        4th. I give & bequeath to my said Sisters Hannah Faunce, Joanna Cook & Sarah Faunce; all my personal Estate of what kind or nature soever if they are living at the time of my decease; & in case of the Death of either of them before myself the Survivors or Survivor to have it, and in case of the Death of all of them before me, I give it to my Brothers Eliezer & Elijah & my Sister Lydia Cook Wife of Josiah Cook & the Heirs of my Sister Molly Cook deceased—

        5th. I hereby appoint my Brother Eliezer Faunce my Executor to this my last Will& Testament.— In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand & seal the twenty fourth day of December in the year of our Lord one Thousand eight hundred & sixteen—

signed sealed & declared by the above named Eleanor

Faunce to be her last Will & Testament in presence of us

                Isaac Washburn                                                                                                   Eleanor Faunce                (seal)

                Susanna Washburn

                John Gray —

 

Presented for probate on 29 Jan. 1817 by Eliezer Faunce, the Executor, and proved by Isaac Washburn and John Gray, two of the witnesses.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 48, p. 340-341, from FHL microfilm #0550905.

 

 

Will of Elizabeth Faunce of Plymouth, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1858) *

                                Be it known, that I, Elizabeth Faunce of Plymouth, in the County of Plymouth and State of Massachusetts, Widow, do make, publish and declare the following to be my last & Testament, hereby revoking all former Wills.

                                First. I give, devise and bequeath to my daughter Elizabeth H. Churchill, all the Real Estate of which I may die seized or possessed or to which I may be in any way entitled, also all my wearing apparel and all my household furniture, including crockery, silver ware and all utensils for housekeeping, to her, her heirs and assigns, forever.

                                Second. I give to my Son John Carver, one hundred dollars.

                                Third. I give to Josiah Carver, Son of said John, fifty dollars, to be deposited by my Executor herein after named, in the Plymouth Savings Bank, payable to said Josiah when he shall have attained the age of twenty one years.

                                Fourth. I give to Sylvanus L. Churchill, son of said Elizabeth H., fifty dollars, to be deposited by my Executor herein after named, in the Plymouth Savings Bank, payable to said Sylvanus L., when he shall have attained the age of twenty one years.

                                Fifth. I give the rest, residue and remainder of my Estate, if there be any remainder, to be equally divided between the three daughters of said Elizabeth H. Churchill.

                                Any charges or accounts, which I may have against either of my children are hereby canceled, provided said children bring no claim against my estate. In case either of them shall make any claim against my estate, then any charges or accounts which I may have against such child, are to be considered and remain valid and effectual, and the devise hereinbefore made to such child, shall therefore become void and of no effect; it being my intention and desire that this Will shall operate as a final settlement of all accounts between me and my children.

                                If, after payment of my debts and funeral expenses, my property shall be insufficient to satisfy all the above devises in full, then my Will is, that they be satisfied and paid in the following order. – First the devise first above made to my daughter Elizabeth H. is to be satisfied and paid in full, to the exclusion, if need be, of all the others.  Second,– the devise to my Son John is to be paid in full, to the exclusions, if need be, of all the subsequent devises.

                                Third: if after the devises to said Elizabeth H., and John, there shall not remain sufficient property to pay, in full, the devises to my Grandsons Josiah Carver and Sylvanus L. Churchill, then, and in that case, whatever there may be, is to be equally divided between them, and disposed of as provided in sections Third & Fourth.

                                I nominate, constitute and appoint Isaac Brewster, of said Plymouth, Executor of this Will, and direct him to cause such grave-stones as he may deem suitable, to be placed at my grave, and paid for out of my estate.

                                In testimony of all which, I have hereunto set my hand and seal, this twenty ninth day of March, in the year eighteen hundred and fifty eight.

                                                                                                                                                                   her

                                                                                                                                                Elizabeth  X  Faunce               (seal)

                                                                                                                                                                 mark

                                Signed, sealed, published and declared by Elizabeth Faunce above named, as and for her last Will and Testament, in our presence, who in her presence, and at her request, and in presence of each other, have hereunto set our names as Witnesses.

                                                                                                                                                Jno. J. Russell

                                                                                                                                                George Harlow

                                                                                                                                                David Drew

 

Presented for probate on the first Tuesday of October 1859 by Isaac Brewster, the Executor, and proved by George Harlow and David Drew, two of the witnesses.

The Inventory of the Estate of Elizabeth Faunce, late of Plymouth, was appraised by Leander Lovell, George Harlow, and David Drew on 1 Oct. 1859, her Real Estate totaled $525, and her Personal Estate totaled $617.50, including $330 in the Plymouth Savings Bank, and notes from Thomas Sampson for $50, and from George H. Pratt for $200. Isaac Brewster, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on the first Tuesday of Oct. 1859.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 101, p. 417-418, from FHL microfilm #0555645.

 

 

Will of Hannah Faunce of Kingston, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1816) *

                In the name of God, Amen. I Hannah Faunce of Kingston, Singlewoman, considering the uncertainty of this mortal life, and being of sound and perfect mind and memory, blessed be Almighty God for the same, do make & publish this my last Will and Testament in manner and form following, (that is to say).     First, I give and bequeath unto my sisters, Eleanor Faunce, Joanna Cook and Sarah Faunce, the improvement of all my Real Estate during their natural lives, with power to sell the whole or any part thereof if necessary for their comfortable support; and in case of the death of either of them before or after my decease the survivor or survivors of said sisters to have the improvement and right of sale as aforesaid.     2. I give and bequeath all my woodland that was set off to me in the division of the Estate of my brother John Faunce Esqr deceased, if not disposed of by my sisters aforesaid during their lives, which lies in that tract of land set off to my said brother in the division between him and the heirs of John Sever, to my sister Lydia Cook, wife of Josiah Cook, and the heirs of my sister Molly Cook, deceased, if the same tract is not sold by my sisters aforesaid.     3d I give and bequeath all my other Real Estate, not otherwise disposed of, which I may leave at the time of my decease, or the decease of my sisters, Eleanor Faunce, Joanna Cook, and Sarah Faunce, to be equally divided between my brothers, Eliezer Faunce & Elijah Faunce, after the decease of all my said sisters aforesaid.   4h I give and bequeath to my said sisters aforesaid, Eleanor, Joanna, & Sarah, all my personal Estate of what kind or nature soever, if they are living at the time of my decease, and in case of the death of either of them before myself, the survivor or survivors to have it; and in case of the death of all of them before me, I give it to my brothers Eliezer & Elijah, and my sister Lydia Cook, wife of Josiah Cook, and the heirs of my sister Molly Cook, decd.     5. I hereby appoint my brother Eliezer Faunce my Executor to this my last Will and Testament.

        In witness whereof I the said Hannah Faunce have hereunto set my hand and seal, this twenty-fourth day of December A.D. one thousand eight hundred and sixteen. 1816.

Signed, sealed, and declared                                                                                             2 interlines before signing

by the above named Hannah

Faunce to be her last Will and                                                                                          Hannah Faunce                (seal)

Testament in presence of us

        Isaac Washburn

        Susanna Washburn

        John Gray

 

Presented for probate on 17 Sept. 1827 by Eliezer Faunce, the Executor, and proved by John Gray, one of the witnesses.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 64, p. 271-273, from FHL microfilm #0555258.

 

 

Will of John Faunce of Kingston, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1751) *

In the Name of God Amen on the Twenty First Day of Octr. 1751 – I  John Faunce of Kingston In the county of Plimouth In the Province of the Massachusets Bay In New England Yeoman being In a Very Low State of Helth and Weak of Body but of Perfect Mind and Memmory Thanks be Given to God therefor calling to Mind the Mortaleti of My Body and Knowing that it Is Appointed to all Men Once to Die do make and Ordain this My Last Will and Testement that is to Say Principaly and first of all I Give and Recommend my Soul Into the Hands of God that gave it and My body I Recommend to the Eairth to be buried In Decent christain Buriel at the Descretion of My Executor: Nothing Doubting but at the Generail Rezerrction I Shall Receive the Same again by the Mighty Power of God and as Touching Such Worly Estate Wherewith it hat pleased God to Bless Me with in this Life I Give Demise and Dispose of the Same in the Following Manner and form: Imprimas: I Give and Bequeath to My beloved Son John Faunce whome I Likewise constetute make and Ordain My Soule Executor of this My Last Will and Testement: all and Singuler My Home Steed Farm Whereon I Now Dwell with all the Buildings there On Excepting My part of the Furnice Standing on said Farm and some other Resarves Hereafter to be Mentioned together with one Half of My Salt Meddow and one Half of My ceder Swamp Lying at a place called Black Water and one Half of My part of My Furnice above mentioned and one acre of Meaddow at a place called Dotens Meddows In the Township of Plimton and also the Shortist of My Two Guns and Sword by him Freely to be Posessed and Enjoyed— — — —

Item: I Give and Bequeath unto My Beloved Son Benjamin Faunce the Other Half of My Salt Meddow and ceder Swamp above Mentioned Together with Twenty Two acres of Land Lying in Kingston called My Iron Ore Lot be the Same more or Less and My part of one Hundred Acres of Land I have in partnership with Gamalell Bradford Esqr. and Mr. Benjm. Samson Lying In Kingston above said and the Other Half of My part of the Furnice aforesaid and Also the Other of My Guns by Him freely to be possessed and Enjoyed— — — —

and Likewise I constitute and appoint My Son John Faunce to be Guardian To My Son Benjm. During his Minority— — — —

Item: I Give and Bequeath to My Five Daughters and Grandchildren (viz) Judeth Warshborn Lydia Warshburn Mary curtis Mehitebal cushman and Rebekah Repley and the three children of My Daughter Hannah cook Deceased all My Personall Estate Together with all My Household Goods Debts & Movebels: Effects after My Funerail Charges & Just Debts are payed:— To be Equally Divided Amongst them the three children to Have one Shear ~ Item: I Give and Bequeath to My Daughter Lydia above mentioned My Cedar Swamp that I have in Partnership with my son John to my Daughter Lydia abovesaid Lying in the Town Ship of Pembrook Together With a Suteball convenance in My Dwelling House and Priveledge in My Orchard and a Sutabel & convenant Guardian Spot During her Widdow hood and also to Have one cow Keept on this My Farme booth Winter and Summor During Her Widdow Hood as above said the ceder Swamp to her own fore Ever by her freely to be possessed and Enjoyed and further My Will and plesher is that My son John pay to my three Daughters (viz) Judith Warshburn Lydia Warshburn and Mehetabel Cushman & the three Grand children above Mentioned the full and Just Sum of Ten pounds thirtee Shillings & Eight pence Currant Lawfull Money of New England to be paid Two years after my Decease & to be Equaly Divided amongst them ye three Grand children to Have One Shair ~~~~~~

And I Do Hereby Utterly Dissalow and Dissanull all and Every Other former Testements Will Legaces and Bequests and Executors by Me in Eney Ways Before Named Willed and Bequeathed Rettifing and confirming this and No Other to be my Last Will and Testement in Witness Where of I Have Hereunty Set My Hand Seal the Day and Year Above Written

Signed Sealed Published Pronounced and                                                                      John Faunce      (seal)

Declared By the Said John Faunce as His Last Will and Testement In

Presence of us the Subscribers — — —

Abiel Fuller

Peleg Bradford

caleb cook Junr

 

Probated on 2 Dec. 1751, and proved by Abiel Fuller and Peleg Bradford.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 12, p. 415-416, from FHL microfilm #0551539.

 

 

Will of John Faunce of Kingston, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1768) *

The eleventh day of august 1768. John Faunce of Kingston in the county of Plymouth in the province of the Massachusetts-Bay in New England yeoman, being in a very low state of health and weak of body, but of a perfect mind & memory, thanks be given to almighty God therefor, calling to mind the mortality of my body, and knowing it is appointed for all men to die, I make and ordain this my last will and testament, that is to say, principally & first of all, I give & recomend my soul unto the hands of God that gave it, and my body I recomend to the earth to be buried in a decent Christian burial at the discretion of my executors, nothing doubting but at the general resurrection I shall receive the same again by the mighty power of God; and as touching such worldly estate wherewith it has pleased to God to bless bless me in this life, I give, demise & dispose of the same in the following manner & form.

Imprs. I give and bequeath unto my beloved son John Faunce, and to his heirs as followeth, the northeasterly side of my homestead farm whereon I now dwell, with all the buildings thereon, besides what is hereafter expressed, begining at the south easterly corner of my fifteen acres lot, by that to Drakes hole, to a pine stump with stones about it, thence north fortysix degrees west, sixty four rods to a stake & stones about it, standing at the head of Little Winter meadow, thence I bind him to a ditch that runs thro’ said meadow, by said ditch to a damm, and thence as the fence now stands and the said brook until it comes to my dipping place, and thence as my pasture fence now standeth, to a ditch that is on both sides of Trout brook to a cause way thence north forty eight degrees west to Thomas Tyler esqs. Land; and eight acres of woodland of the southeast end of the lot I bought of Richard Adams; & the one half of my salt meadow, & the one third part of my cedar swamp, also one sixteenth part of my furnace, & the one eighth of my saw mill, & the one half of my pew in Meeting house.

Item. Give and bequeath unto my beloved son Eliezer Faunce, & his heirs, the other part of my homestead farm that I have not given unto my son John Faunce, and the other half of my salt meadow, that I have not given unto my son John, & the one third part of my cedar swamp with my son John, and my other sixteenth part of the furnace, and the one eighth part of my saw mill, and the other half of my pew in the body of the meeting house, adjoining Lothrop,s and Cushmans. ~~

Item, I give & bequeath unto my beloved son Elijah Faunce & his heirs, all my Lands & meadows lying in the township of Plymouth, and the other third part of cedar swamp that I have not given to my other two sons, and the other third part of my saw-mill that I have not given to my sons John & Eliezer. ~~

My will is that my son John Faunce shall at twelve months from my decease shall pay thirteen pounds, six Shillings & eight pence, in any movable effects to my daughters to be equally divided between them. ----- Also that my son Eliezer Faunce at the age of twenty one, shall pay to my daughters thirteen pounds, six shillings & eight pence in movable effects to be equally divided between them. ~~

Item, I give & bequeath to my wife Hannah Faunce the one third part of all my personal estate, and the use of the westerly end of my dwelling-house and privilege in my cellar during her widdowhood, & a privilege in my orchard for herself, & a garden-spot during her widdowhood, And my will is that my two sons John Faunce & Eliezer Faunce shall find wood carted & cut at the door for my wife Hannah Faunce as much as she shall stand in need off so long as she shall remain my widdow, & that my two sons John & Eliezer each of them shall keep their mother a cow winter & summer during her widdowhood. My will is that my sons John & Eliezer shall let their mother have eight bushels of rye & indian corn a year, yearly, apiece, & ground to meal if needed, and also about five pounds sheeps wool between them, & six pounds of flax a year, yearly, & forty weight beef, & find a horse for her between them, to ride, and sauce sufficient for her between them. ~~

Likewise, I do constitute & appoint my son in law Robert Cook, and my son John Faunce to be my executors of this my last will & testament. ~~

Likewise, I do constitute and appoint my son in law Robert Cook to be guardian for my daughter Hannah Faunce & son Eliezer Faunce, & Elijah Faunce, during their minority

Likewise, I do constitute & appoint my son John Faunce to be guardian for my daughter Eleanor Faunce, & my daughter Molly Faunce, & my daughter Joann Faunce, and my daughter Sarah Faunce, during their minority. ~~

Also my will is after my funeral charges are paid, & my just debts are all dischargd (if any there be) that all my personal estate that I have not before disposed off to be equally divided between all my daughters. ------   And I do hereby utterly disallow & disanul all other former testaments, wills, legacies, & bequests, executors, by me in any way before named, willed, & bequeathed, ratifying and confirming this and no other to be my last Will & testament. In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand & seal November the 28th. 1768.

Signed, sealed, published, pronounced, & delivered by the

sd. John Faunce as his last will & testament, in the                                                       John Faunce                      (seal)

presence of us the subscribers.

                                                                Jonathan Cushman

                                Reuben Bisbee,  David Ripley. ~~

 

Presented for probate on 2 Jan. 1769 by Robert Cook and John Faunce, the executors, and proved by Jonathan Cushman and Reuben Bisbee, two of the witnesses.

 

The Inventory of Mr. John Faunce, late of Kingston, was appraised by Robert Bradford, Benjamin Cook and Jabez Washburne junr. on 9 Jan. 1769, and totaled £1132.6.10, including his personal estate valued at £283.14.2, and his real estate valued at £848.12.8.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 20, p. 165-166, from FHL microfilm #0550711.

 

 

Will of John Faunce of Kingston, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1829) *

Be it remembered that I John Faunce of Kingston in the County of Plymouth and State of Massachusetts Yeoman being weak in body, but sound and perfect mind and memory blessed be Almighty God for the same do make and publish this my last Will & Testament in manner and form following that is to say –

First.  I give unto my Brother Benjamin Faunce and to my Brother Tilden Faunce all my freehold Estate in Kingston and elsewhere to hold to them the said Benjamin Faunce & Tilden Faunce their heirs and assigns forever, to be equally divided between them –

Second, I give unto my Brother Stephen Faunce the sum of Ten Dollars which said legacy I will and order, shall be paid to the said legatee within six months after my decease,

3d. Lastly as to all the rest residue and remainder of my Personal Estate goods and chattels of what kind and nature soever I give and bequeath the same to the said Benjamin Faunce and Tilden Faunce to be equally divided between them, after paying my just debts and funeral charges –

I hereby appoint Josiah Holmes Executor of this my last Will and Testament.     In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand & seal the twenty seventh day of January in the year of our Lord One thousand eight hundred & twenty nine, 1829.

Signed sealed published and declared                                                                                     his

by the above named John Faunce to be                                                                           John  X  Faunce                   (seal)

his last will & testament in the presence of us who at his request                                   mark

and in his presence have hereunto subscribed our names as

witnesses to the same

Jehiel Washburn

Josiah Holmes

Asa cook

 

Probated on 16 Feb. 1829, and proved by Jehiel Washburn, Josiah Holmes and Asa Cook, the witnesses. Letters Testamentary were granted to Josiah Holmes of Kingston, on 16 Feb. 1829.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of John Faunce late of Kingston, appraised by Jehiel Washburn, Samuel Soule and Asa Cook on 11 Mar. 1829, totaled $1615.47, including his real estate valued at $1405.50. Josiah Holmes, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 16 Mar. 1829.

 

John Gray, Robert Cushman, and Asa Cook, all of Kingston, were appointed to divide the Real Estate of John Faunce, late of Kingston, between his brother Benjamin Faunce and Tilden Faunce on 13 Apr. 1829. The division was dated 8 Mar. 1830, and confirmed on 15 Nov. 1830.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 66, p. 455-456, from FHL microfilm #0555259, Vol. 67, p. 113, and Vol. 69, p. 498-500.

 

 

Will of Joseph Faunce of Plymouth, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1723) *

In the Name of God amen. I Joseph Faunce of ye Town & County of Plymouth in new:England yeoman: being under Bodely weakness & Infirmity (thoh Through ye Divine Favour of Sound & desposing mind & memory) do make & ordain This my last Will & Testament as followeth (viz) I do in ye first Place give up my Imortal Soul to God that gave it & my Body to be Decently interr’d after my Decease: and as to my temporal Estate (my Just Debts Sick Bed & funeral Expenses being first Paid) I give & Bequeath to my Loving wife Judith Faunce for Her Support & Comfort during Her natural Life: The use Profits & Improvement of all my Housing & Lands: & of all my moveable or Personall Estate Except what is here afterwards Excepted: giving Her Hereby full Power & authority to Sell all my Lands & Swamps in Middleborough in ye County aforesd (if it be needfull) for ye Payment of my Just Debts & what She Shall not be under necessity of Parting with for Her Support during Her Life: & shall appear after Her Death then to be my Estate, Either Reall or Personall: I give & Bequeath ye Same to my Three Daughters Hannah, Mary & Mehitable to whome I have heretofore given Something at their marriage: Item my wearing apparrell & arms I give to my four Sons, John, Joseph, Eleazer & Thomas: to whome I have by Deed of Gift already given a Considerable Part of my Estate: Item: I do Constitute & appoint my Sd Loving wife to be Executrix of this my last Will & Testamt. Hereby Revoking & making utterly null & void all former Wills and Testamts. by me made: Ratifying Confirming & allowing this & no other for my last Will, and In Testimony thereof I have hereunto Sett my Hand & Seal this twenty ninth day of march anno Domini one thousand Seven Hundred & twenty three 1723

Signed Sealed & Declared

to be His last Will & Testamt.

In Presence of                                                                                                                      Joseph Faunce (seal)

Josiah Cotton                                                                                                                             His Marke     

Nathaniel Holmes

Eleazer Holmes

 

Proved on 6 March 1724/25 by Josiah Cotton, Nathaniel Holmes & Eleazer Holmes, and letter of administration granted to Judith Faunce Relict widdow of sd deceased on 26 March 1725.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Mr. Joseph Faunce, late of Plymouth, was appraised by Benjamin Warren, John Holmes, and Eleazer Holmes on 11 Mar. 1724/25, not totaled, but his Land at Crane brook Ponds in Plymouth, 124 acres, was valued at only £6.10.0, and his right in the Sixteen Shilling Purchase in Middleborough, being one third of a share was valued at £30. Mrs. Judith Faunce, the Relict and sole Executrix, gave her oath to the inventory on 26 Mar. 1725.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 5, p. 53-55, from FHL microfilm #0550511.

 

 

Will of Joseph Faunce of Middleborough, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1823) *

        In the name of God amen. I Joseph Faunce of the town of Middleborough Yeoman being weak in body, but of perfect mind and memory thanks be given unto God, calling unto mind the mortality of my body & knowing that is appointed for all men once to die do make and ordain this my last will and Testament, that is to say, Principally & first of all I give and recommend my soul into the hands of Almighty God that gave it, and my body I recommend to the earth to be buried in decent christian burial at the discretion of my Executor, nothing doubting but at the general resurrection I shall receive the same again by the mighty power of God, and touching such worldly Estate wherewith it has pleased God to bless me in this life, I give & bequeath the same in the following manner.

        First I give to my Brother James Faunce a parcel of land containing about two acres lying in said Middleborough (near the old house so called) and is bounded on the southwest by the farm lately owned by Freeman Cole, and on the southeast by the highway, and on the other sides by the land of James Faunce, together with two thirds of that wood and timber that I bought of John Keith & Abbey Keith the wife of John Keith bounds and descriptions reference may be had to the lease from sd John & Abigail to the sd Joseph Faunce bearing date the twenty seventh day of November eighteen hundred and twenty two.

        Secondly, I give unto my Brother John Faunce my house with all the privilege I have in the same, together with that lot of land adjoining said house, and is bounded on the south by the highway, and on the east and north by the land of James Faunce and on the west by the land of John Keith, together with one third part of that parcel of wood and timber I bought of John Keith as above described.

        I also give to my sister Hannah Faunce my chest of Drawers.

        And I appoint Samuel Thompson the sole Executor of this my last will and Testament, hereby revoking all other wills by me made.

        In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this twenty first day of January eighteen hundred & twenty three.

Signed, Sealed, published & declared

by the above named Joseph Faunce to

be his last will and Testament in

presence of us who at his request and

in his presence have hereunto subscri-                                                                            Joseph

ed our names as witnesses to the same.                                                          his           Joseph     mark                                  (seal)

        Calvin Tillson                                                                                                               Faunce

        John Keith

        Noah Bisbee

 

Presented for probate on 14 Apr. 1823 by Samuel Thompson, the Executor, and proved by Calvin Tillson, John Keith, and Noah Bisbee, the witnesses.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 56, p. 504-506, from FHL microfilm #0550909.

 

 

Will of Nathaniel Faunce of Dartmouth, Bristol County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1809) *

Be it Remembered that I Nathaniel Faunce of Dartmouth in the County of Bristol and Commonwealth of Massachusetts House wright Being in Good Health and perfect Memory do this tenth Day of June Anno Domini one thousand eight hundred and nine make and publish this my Last Will and Testament in manner following that is to Say

Imprimis I Give to my Son Thomas Faunce and to his heirs and assigns forever my wood Lot that I bought of John Tallman Bounded as followeth Beginning at the South East Corner Bound of my Said Son Thomas’s Land that he now holds by Deed from me from thence Southerly a Straite Line to a Stake and heap of Stones a Corner bound of Stoten Booths Land thence westerly to the high way thence in the Line of said way Norherly to the Southwest Corner of his Said Land thence to first mentioned Bound

Item I Give to my Son James Faunce my Desk and all the Debts that may be Due to me at my Deceas

Item I Give to my Daughter Patience Faunce my Side Sadle and fifty Dollars in Money to be paid by my Executor hereafter named in one year after my Deceas

Item I Give to my four Daughters namely Patience Faunce Lidia Faunce Sarah Faunce and Margaret Faunce all my House hold Furniture and in Door Movables to be Equally Divided between them to them their Heirs and assigns forever

also I Give to my Said four Daughters namely Patience Faunce Lidia Faunce Sarah Faunce and Margaret Faunce the use and improvement of the one half of my Home stead farm where on I now Live together with one half my Dwelling House and Wood Sufficient for the use of fire for them So Long as they Shall Remain Single or unmarried

and my Will is that my Said Son James Faunce Should improve the Said half of my Said home stead farm for his Said four Sisters and if he Doth Support and maintain them that the overplus of Said improvement if any there be Should be his own and if the one half of my Said homestead is not Sufficient for the Support of my Said four Daughters my will is that they be Supported out of the Remaining half of Said home stead

Item I Give to my Said Son James Faunce the other or Remaing half of my Said homestead farm together with the Revertion of the first mentioned half of my Said homestead farm after the Mariage or Death of my Said four Daughters to him his heirs and assigns forever

Item I Give to my two Sons Thomas Faunce and James Faunce all my wearing appearrel to be Equally Divided between them

Item I also Give and Bequeath to my Said Son James Faunce all the Rest and Residue of my Estate Real and Personal not herein before Bequeathed and Devised wherever the Same may be found. and Lastly I do Constitute and ordain my Said Son James Faunce Sole Executor of this my Last Will and Testament In Testimony whereof I do hereunto Set my hand and Seal the Day and year above Written

                                                                                                                                                Nathaniel Faunce                            (seal)

Signed Sealed Published pronounced and Declared by

the Said Nathaniel Faunce as and for his Last

Will and Testament in the presence of us who at

his Request and in his Presence here unto Set

our names as Witnesses to the Same

Isaiah Chase

Zebedee Jones

John Rogers

                                                May 7. 1822 Approved.

 

Proved by Isaiah Chase, Zebedee Jones and John Rogers on 7 May 1822.

 

To the Hon Hodijah Bayles Esqr Judge of the Probate of Wills &c for the County of Bristol

It being inconvenient to me to Execute the Duty of an Executor to the Last will and Testament of Nathaniel Faunce Late of Dartmouth in said County Deceased I Do hereby Signify and Declare to your Honor my Refusal of that Trust

Dartmouth July 30th 1822                                                                                                  James Faunce

NB I also Request that John Rogers Esqr may be appointed to that Trust

 

At a Probate Court holden at Westford in and for the County of Bristol on the thirtieth day of July A. D. 1822.

        Whereas James Faunce who is named as Executor of the Last Will and Testament of Nathaniel Faunce late of Dartmouth in said County deceased has in writing declined taking upon himself said trust and requested that John Rogers of said Dartmouth may be appointed Administrator of the estate of said deceased with the Will annexed – I do therefore decree that the said Rogers be appointed Administrator with the Will annexed of the estate of said deceased.

        Given under my hand and seal of Office the day and year above written

                                                                                                                                                H. Baylies, J. Prob.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Bristol County Probate File “Nathaniel Faunce, Dartmouth, 1822.”

 

 

Will of Olive Faunce of Auburn, Androscoggin County, Maine (1875) *

        In the name of God Amen.     I Olive Faunce of Auburn in the County of Androscoggin and State of Maine, being weak in body but of a sound and perfect mind and memory, do make publish and declare this my last will and testament in manner and form following viz:

First. I give and bequeath all the property which I shall be possessed of at the time of my death unto my two beloved sisters Eliza Adams and Lydia Crooker and to my beloved grand – child Emma Ada Faunce to be divided among them equally after the payment of my just debts and funeral charges and the fitting of my burying lot by erecting an iron fence around the same and inscribing my name and age upon the monument now standing on my lot.

Secondly.  I hereby appoint George M. Roak of Auburn to be the sole executor of this my last will and testament.

                In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand this fourteenth day of August A.D. 1875.

as said Rubin

                                                                                                                                                Olive Faunce

        Signed published and declared by the said Olive Faunce to be her last will and testament in presence of us who at her request in her presence and in the presence of each other have subscribed our names as witnesses thereto.

                                                                                                                                                A. M. Pulsifer

                                                                                                                                                Charles Judkins

                                                                                                                                                Julia Judkins

 

Presented for probate on 21 Sept. 1875 by George M. Roak of Auburn, the Executor. She died on 23 Aug. 1875.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Androscoggin County Probate Records Vol. 5, p. 53, from FHL microfilm #010531, and Probate of Wills Vol. 2, p. 12.

 

 

Will of Patience Faunce of Dartmouth, Bristol County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1839) *

Be it remembered that I Patiance Faunce of Dartmouth in the County of Bristol and Commonwealth of Massachusetts Single woman Considering the uncertainty of this mortal life and being of Sound and perfect minde and memory blessed be allmighty God for the Same do make and publish this my last Will and testament in manner and form following that is to Say first I give and devise unto my nephew Thomas Faunce Second the Son of James Faunce and to his heirs and assigns all my royal estate namely a lot of land situate in said Dartmouth it being a part of the farm formerly owned by my father and is bounded Easterly by David G. Wilsons Northerly by the highway Westerly and Southerly by James Faunces land Containing eleven acres I do also give and bequeth to my Brother Thomas Faunce one bed and Beding to furnish the same – I do also give and bequeth to my brother James Faunce one bed and beding to furnish the same I do also give and bequeth to Levy Faunce one larg brass Kittle I also give my wearing apparel to be equelly devided amongst the daughters of my brothers Thomas and James I further give and bequeth the remainder of my indore household stuff to be equely devided amongst my two brothers children

and lastly as to all the rest residue and remainder of my personal estate goods and chattles of what kind and nature soever I give and bequeath the same to my Said nephew Thomas Faunce Second whom I hearby appoint Sole executor of this my last will and testament hereby revoking all former wills by me made in witness whereof I have hereunto Set my hand and Seal this fifth day of November in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and thirty nine

Signed Sealed published and declared                                                                            Patience Faunce                                              (seal)

by the above named Patience Faunce

to be hir Last will and testament

in the presents of us who at hir request

and in hir presents have hereunto Subscribed

our names as witnesses to the same

                                                Jepthah Ashley

                                                Abel Briggs

                                                David G Wilson

 

                                Dec 16th 1839

                Approved  heirs consent

 

We, James Faunce & Thomas Faunce the only heirs at law of the within named testatrix hereby signify our consent to the proving of the within will.

November 16th 1939                                                                                                           Thomas Faunce

                                                                                                                                                James Faunce

 

Proved by David G. Wilson, one of the witnesses, on 16 Dec. 1839. Letters of Administration were granted to Thomas Faunce 2d, of Dartmouth, on 16 Dec. 1839, with David G. Wilson and Caleb Maxfield of New Bedford as sureties.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Bristol County Probate File “Patience Faunce, Dartmouth, 1839,” from FHL microfilm #0575138.

 

 

Will of Rebecca Faunce of Plymouth, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1862) *

                                Be it known that I Rebecca Faunce of Plymouth in the County of Plymouth State of Massachusetts, being advanced in age but of sound mind and memory, do make publish and declare this Instrument to be my last Will and Testament in manner following.

                                First. I give devise and bequeath to my Grandson Nathl B. Faunce ten dollars to be paid him by my Executor hereinafter named soon after my decease as may be convenient for his full share of my estate.

                                Second. I give devise and bequeath to my daughter Jane Smith wife of Peter W. Smith, a part of a certain dwelling house and lot on Summer Street owned and occupied by me, namely, the two back chambers, the bed room and buttery on the West end of said chambers, the Easterly half of the garret, one half of my undivided one third of the cellar and one half of the land to me belonging adjoining said house with all the privileges and appurtenances to the same belonging to her and her heirs and assigns forever.

                                Third. I give, devise and bequeath to my daughter Dorcas M. Pierce the remaining part of my said house namely, the Easterly front chamber, the North Easterly bed chamber, one half of my undivided one third of the cellar and one half of the land to me belonging adjoining said house with all the privileges and appurtenances to the same belonging to her and her heirs and assigns forever.

                                Fourth. I hereby appoint my Grandson Phineas Pierce sole Executor of this my last Will and Testament.

                                In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this twentieth day of June one thousand eight hundred and sixty two.

                                                                                                                                                Rebecca Faunce                               (seal)

                                Signed, sealed, published and declared by the above named Rebecca Faunce to be her last Will and Testament in presence of us who at her request in her presence and in the presence of each other have hereunto subscribed our names as witnesses.

                                                                                                                                                J. B. Atwood

                                                                                                                                                Daniel J. Robbins

                                                                                                                                                Leander Lovell

 

Plymouth SS.  To the Judge of Probate for Plymouth,

        Respectfully represents the undersigned that he having been appointed Executor of the foregoing Will of Rebecca Faunce, hereby decline that trust.

                                                                                                                P. Pierce

 

Presented for probate on the first Monday of December 1862 by Peter W. Smith, of Plymouth, who petitioned for Administration with Will annexed of the Estate of Rebecca Faunce, late of Plymouth, with Phineas Pierce of Boston and Chas. S. Holmes and Saml. Talbot, of Plymouth, as sureties. Letters of Administration with Will annexed were granted to Peter W. Smith on 1 Dec. 1862.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 104, p. 211-212, from FHL microfilm #0555646, and Vol. 114, p. 92 (91).

 

 

Will of Sarah Faunce of Kingston, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1837) *

                In the name of God, Amen, I Sarah Faunce of Kingston, singlewoman, considering the uncertainty of this mortal life & being of a sound & perfect mind & memory, Blessed be Almighty God for the same, do make & publish this my last Will & Testament, in manner & form following, that is to say;

                1st. I give & bequeath unto my nephews Kilburn Faunce & Charles C. Faunce all my real estate excepting what will be hereafter disposed of by this Instrument.

                2d. I give & bequeath unto my nephew & niece, Asa Cook & Judith Hammond, widow, that tract of Woodland that was set off to me in the division of the estate of my Brother, John Faunce Esq. deceased, which lies in that tract of Land set off to my said Brother, in the division between him & the heirs of John Sever.

                3d. I give & bequeath unto my niece Molly Cook all my right in the Dwelling House and lot where I now live, which is one fourth part of the same. I also give & bequeath to the said Molly Cook all my right in a Pew, on the lower floor of the First Congretional Meeting House in Kingston which was set off to me in the division of the Estate of my brother John Faunce Esq deceased.

                4th. I give & bequeath unto the heirs of my brothers Eleazer Faunce deceased and Elijah Faunce, deceased, & Molly Cook deceased, equal, all my personal Estate to them or to their heirs.

                5th. I hereby appoint my nephews, Kilburn Faunce & Charles C. Faunce, my Executors to this my last Will & Testament.

                                In witness whereof I the said Sarah Faunce have hereunto set my hand & seal this thirteenth day of December A.D. one thousand, eight hundred & thirty seven.

                                                                                                                                Sarah Faunce                   (seal)

                Signed, sealed & declared to be her last Will & Testament in presence of us.

                                                                                                                                                                                Peleg Bradford

                                                                                                                                                                                John Fuller 2d.

                                                                                                                                                                                Benjamin Dunham

 

Presented for probate on the first Monday of Dec. 1849 by Kilburn Faunce and Charles C. Faunce, the Executors, and proved by Peleg Bradford and Benjamin Dunham, two of the witnesses.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Sarah Faunce, late of Kingston, singlewoman, was appraised by John Gray, Thomas C. Holmes, and Peleg Bradford on 9 Oct. 1849, her real estate totaled $482.00, sundries in the house valued were at $125, and cash on hand was $54.75. Kilburn Faunce and Charles C. Faunce, the Executors, gave their oath to the inventory on the first Monday of Dec. 1849, and the personal estate of the deceased was ordered sold at public auction on 3 Dec. 1849.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 91, p. 621-624, from FHL microfilm #0555640.

 

 

Will of Elder Thomas Faunce of Plymouth, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1745) *

In the name of the Ever Living God Amen —

I Thomas Faunce of Plimouth in the County of Plimouth & Province of the Massachusets Bay in New England Elder of the Church of Christ in said Town being Sensible of My frailty and Mortallity and not knowing how soon soon it Shall Please God to put a period to my temporal life, do apprehend it my Duty to set my house in Order Before I die, And though I am under bodyly Weakness & decays of Nature (being in the Ninety Eighth year of my Age) Yet blessed be the Lord Jehovah my God and Saviour I am of Sound Disposeing Mind and memory, And therefore do make & Ordain this my last will and Testament – In the First place I Commend my Immortall Spiritt into the hands of God the Father Son & holy Ghost my Creator my Preserver Redeemer & Sanctyfier, humbly relying on the Alone Meritts and Intercession of the Lord Jesus my Dear Saviour & Trusting Entirely in the promises of the Gospel Covenant through him for the pardon of all my Sins and Eternal Salvation ~ And My body I comit to the Earth where it was Originally taken, (to be decently buried by the Executor and Overseers of this my last Testament) in Good hope of a Resurrection at the last day to Immortal life & bliss through Jesus Christ the first Fruits of them that Sleep when death Shall be Swallowed up in victory —

And as to Such Worldly Goods & Estate as it pleased God to bestow upon me my Will respecting the Disposal thereof is as follows viz —

1  My Will is that all my just Debts and Funeral Charges & just Expences be in the first place paid and discharged out of my personal Estate —

2  I Give and Bequeath to my Eldest son John Faunce & to his Heirs and Assigns forever (besides the lands I have formerly Given him by Deed) all that Tract of Land (being fifty Acres of thereabouts) where on he hath built and now dwelleth in Plimouth Aforesd —

Allso all my right in the Swamp adjoyning thereto (being about Six or Seven Acres) Commonly Called the Damm Swamp allso Six or Seven Acres of land (more or less) lying upon Eell river (so called) on the Southerly side of sd. river. Allso forty two Acres out of my Sixty Acre lot of land laid out upon a plain Near ye. Road that Goeth to half way pond. allso my whole Lott of land in Middleboro. lying Near to the New Furnace in the South Purchase (so called) which I had by Deed of my Brother Joseph Faunce —

Moreover I Give to my son John Faunce as Aforesd. all my Glasier Tools. Allso the Moiety or half part of my wearing Apparell allso the Great Bible that was my Fathers —

3  I Give & bequeath to my son Thomas Faunce & to his Heirs & assigns forever all my Farm Messuage or homestead whereon I now Dwell in said Plimouth both upland & meadow with all the Buildings, Fences Improvements & thereon.

Allso Forty Acres of land lying at a place Called Warrens’ Wells Plain ~

Allso Eighteen Acres of Land (being the other part of the Sixty Acre Lot aforesaid) laid adjoyning to my Homestead beforementioned) allso Drodatis Annotations on the Bible. Allso the Other half part of my Wearing Apparell. allso my Silver Seal. —

4.  My Will is that the Lands lying in the Township of Midellboro. which I have formerly Given by Deed to my Daughter Joanna Paddock wife of Ichabod Paddock be her full portion out of my Lands and Real Estate. —

5  I Give and bequeath to my Daughter Patience Kempton wife of Ephraim Kempton & to her heirs and assigns forever one full Third part in quantity & quality of my hundred Acre lott (so called) in Middleborough Aforesd. in the Majors Purchase (so called) which I bought of George Dauson Allso one full third part as aforesaid of my other hundred Acre lot in said Middleborough Also One third Part as aforesaid of Eight Acres & One quarter of Meadow And allso a Third part as Aforesaid of a Cedar Swamp all within said purchase in Middleboro. Aforesaid.

6  I Give and Bequeath to my daughter Martha Dotey wife of Isaac Dotey deceasd & to her heirs and Assigns forever One full Third part in quantity & quality of the Two Lotts (One hundred Acres Each) and of the Eight Acres And a quarter of Meadow and the Cedar Swamp beforementioned in Middleborough. —

7  I Give and Bequeath to my daughter Jane wife of Ebenezer Finney a full third part in quantity & quality of the Aforesd. two (Hundred Acre) Lots, and of the sd. Eight Acres & a quarter of Meadow and the said Cedar Swamp in Middleboro, that is to say to her Dureing her Natural life and on her decease to her Children & heirs of her body born & to their Heirs & assigns forever.

8  My will is that after my Just debts & funeral Charges are paid out of my Personal Estate the Remainder of sd. Estate be Divided Amongst my said Four Daughters, viz. Patience Kempton Martha Doty Joanna Paddock & Jane Finney, so as that they all have an Equal Share includeing what each of them have receivd allready Out of my said Estate —

9  I Give and bequeath to my Daughter in law Lydia Faunce wife of my son Thomas Faunce & to her heirs & assigns forever a Piece of Salt Marsh meadow lying upon said Eell river Known by the Name of the half Acre & According to the Ancient Bounds thereof ~ And this Bequeathment I make as a Token of my Love in a Gratefull Sense of of her tender Care & Unwearied pains & labour for my support and Comfort by Night and day for many Years in my Weak and Feble State of Old age and I pray God allmighty to reward her Good Deeds towards me.

10  I Give and bequeath Unto my Great Grandson Jabez Faunce son of my Granddaughter Sarah Faunce deceasd One Lot of land in Middleborough Aforesd. lying within the South Purchase so called that is to say to him dureing his Natural life and on his Decease to the Heirs of his Body lawfully begotten & to their heirs & Assigns forever. And further my Will is that if the said Jabez die without Lawfull Issue then the sd. Lot of land Shall return to and be equally Divided Amongst my Children or their Heirs.—

And I do Ordain and Constitute my Son John Faunce aforesaid The Sole Executor of this my last will & Testament trusting in his care and fidelity, & Solemly Chargeing him as he will answer it to the Great God Faithfully to Execute & Fulfill Every part and Article of ye. Same, according to the true intent and meaning thereof — And furthermore I do Appoint my Beloved Friends James Warren Eqr & Elisha Dotey the Overseers of this my last Testament requesting them to Advise and Assist My said Executor as occation may require in ye Management of matters & perticulers therein & relateing thereunto —

And I do by these presents Revoke Disanull make void all other and former wills & Testaments by me made & Executed and do allow Ratyfie & Confirm this present & none other as my last Testament —

In Witness whereof I have hereunto Set my hand and affixd. My Seal this twenty first day of March Anno Domini One Thousand Seven hundred and forty five.

Signed Sealed Published and

Declared buy the sd. Elder Thomas

Faunce As his Last Will and                                                                                             Thomas Faunce                                (seal)

Testament in the Presence of us

Elisha Doten

Thomas Bartlett

Joseph Warren

John Finney

 

Plymouth Sc. March 7th 1745[/46]. The abovenamed Executor Refuseing the Executorship The Witnesses to this will viz Elisha Dotey Thomas Bartlett Joseph Warren & John Finney made Oath that they Saw the sd. Thomas Faunce the Testator Sign & Seal & heard him declare this Instrument to be his last will & Testamt. and that they in his presence Subscribed as Witnesses & that he was then of Sound mind in their Judgements—

Before Jno. Cushing Judge of Probates—

 

Letters of Administration with will annexed granted to Thomas Faunce, of Plimo. in the County of Plimouth Yeoman, on 22 Mar. 1745[/46].

 

An Inventory of the Estate of Elder Thomas Faunce late of Plimouth Deceasd taken March A.D. 1746, by James Warren, Jno Finney, and Joseph Marton, totaled £873.17.4, including his home lot of 30 acres valued at £112.10, the upland belonging to the homestead valued at £203.15, the hundred acre lot where Dea. Finney lived valued at £187.10, the other hundred acre lot in Middleborough valued at £57.10, the meadow below the Bridge valued at £50, and several other parcels of land. Thomas Faunce, the administrator cum Testemento annexo, gave his oath to the inventory on 9 July 1746.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 10, pp. 101-106, 317-318.

 

 

Will of Thomas Faunce of Dartmouth, Bristol County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1840) *

                The last Will & Testament of Thomas Faunce

I Thomas Faunce of Dartmouth in the County of Bristol yeoman being of a Sound disposing Mind and Memory for which I desire to be truly Thankful and Calling to mind the uncertainty of life thought best to make this my last Will while thus favoured with ability and as to the worldly Estate wherewith I have been Blessed in this life I Give devise and dispose of the Same in the following manner viz

1th   I Give to my Seven daughters Namely Abigail Snell Lucy G. Hafford Paulina Snell Salley A Terry Hannah C. Wilson Emeline Collins & Phebe Ann Faunce the dwelling house and lot Which I own in Newbedford on North Street to be equilly divided between them

2d    I give to my Six daughters Namely Abigail Snell Lucy G. Hafford Paulina Snell Sally A. Terry Hannah C. Wilson & Emeline Collins one half of my Household Furnature except my desk to be equilly divided between them

3d    I give to my daughter Phebe Ann Faunce the other half of My household furnature except my desk

4th   I give to my aforesaid Seven daughters Fifty dollars Each to be Paid by my Son John Faunce one year after my decease

5th   I Give to My Said daughter Phebe Ann Faunce Thirty five dollars a year during the time or term She the Said Phebe remains Single and un Married after my decease to be Paid by my Son John Faunce

6th   I Give to my Son John Faunce all the rest and residue of My Estate Both Real and Personal Where ever found to him and his heirs and assigns

Finally I appoint my Said Son John Faunce Sole Executor to this my last Will & testament

        In Witness whereof I have hereunto Set my Hand and Seal this twenty Eighth day of November in the year of our lord one thousand Eight Hundred and Forty

Signed Sealed in Presence

of us Who at his request                                                                                                     Thomas Faunce                                (seal)

Subscribed our Names

as Witnesses to the Same                                   June 21  1841

        Joseph Gifford                                                             approved

        Ebenezer Andrews                                                       heirs consent

        William Butts

 

Dartmouth March 6th 1841

To the judge of Probate in and for the County of Bristol

This certifies that we the undersigned being heirs and Receiving certain Legasies in the Last will and testament of Thomas Faunce Late of Said Dartmouth deceased that we jointly and Severally agree that we are willing to have Said will proved by the Said executor and Settled by him as is therein directed

                                                                                                Leonard Snell

                                                                                                Reuben Hafford

                                                                                                Abel Snell

                                                                                                Silas Terrey

                                                                                                Benjamin Wilson

                                                                                                Benjamin Wilson, Guard to Phebe Ann Faunce

 

Proved by William Butts, one of the witnesses, on 21 June 1841. John Faunce, of Dartmouth, was granted Administration of the will of Thomas Faunce, late of Dartmouth, on 21 June 1841, with Reuben Hafford of Middleborough in the County of Plymouth and Benjamin Wilson of Fall River as sureties.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Bristol County Probate File “Thomas Faunce, Dartmouth, 1841,” from FHL microfilm #0575138.

 

 

Will of Daniel Feild of Bridgewater, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1746) *

The last will and Testament of Daniel Feild of Bridgwater in the County of Plimouth in New England. I the said Daniel Feild being in a weak and low Condition and under the Apprehention of the near Approach of my Great & last Change Still retaining the Exercise of my Reason praised be God: Do make and Ordain this my last will and Testament in manner and Form as Followeth ~~

First and Principally I resign my Soul to God my Maker & my body to the Earth in Decent Christian Burial and my will is that after my Just debts and funeral Expences be paid the remainder of my Estate be disposed of in Manner as followeth

Imprs. I Give and bequeath unto my Eldest son Daniel Feild Ten Acres of Land where he now liveth being at the Easterly End of sd. Lot free & Clear to him & his heirs forever~~

Item I Give and bequeath unto my Sons Job Feild & Joseph Feild all the remainder of my lands in the Township of Bridgwater both upland & Meadow lands also all my right in Cutting Cover Cedar Swamp and my right in the old Cedar Swamp on the South side of the Town river and my Third part of a purchase right in the Undivided, all the Above Bequests I Give to be Equally divided between my two Sons above named they paying to their Sister Abigail Feild the sum of One hundred pounds in bills of the old tenour or an Evivet in bills of ye. New=tenour to be paid at the end of two years after my decease; I say I Give it to them their heirs and Assigns forever. –

Item. I Give and bequeath unto my daughter Mehetible Manton of Providence Forty pounds in bills of the old tenour or an Equivalent in bills of ye. new tenour to be paid my by Eldest son Daniel Feild which money is due from him to Me with the Lawfull Intrest for the Same from the 30th of Septr. One thousand Seven hundred & forty two till payment be made which is to be in in Two years after my Decease which with what She hath allready had out of my Estate is all I intend for her and my will is that She therewith rest contented –

Item, I Give and bequeath unto my five grandChildren the heirs of my daughter Hannah Bessewick Twelve Acres of land lying on the Southwesterly End of Stake plain (so called which land was laid out upon my right in the undivided which with what their Mother had in her life time out of my Estate is all that I intend for them, and my will is that they therewith Rest Contented. —

Item. I Give and bequeath unto my daughter Abigail Feild all My House hold Moveables & Two Cows which with what I have allready Orderd is all I intend for her & my will is that She therewith Rest Contented ~~   Finally I Nominate and appoint My Son Job Feild & Joseph Feild to be the Sole Executors of this my last will & Testament utterly renounceing & revokeing all other wills & Testaments by me heretofore made or Devised & Do Establish & Confirm this to be my last will & Testament. In Witness wherof I have hereunto Set my hand & Seal it being November the twenty fifth in the twentieth year of his Majestys reign One thousand Seven hundred & forty Six —

Signed Sealed & published & Declared

In the presence of us –                                                                                                        Daniel Feild                                      (seal)

  Edward Haward

  Samuel Edson junr.

  Nathll. Brett

 

Presented for probate on 4 Mar. 1746[/47] by the Executors above named, and proved by Edward Howard, Saml Edson junr. and Nathll Brett, the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Job Feild and Joseph Feild, both of Bridgwater, the Executors, on 4 March 1746[/47].

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 10, p. 370-372, from FHL microfilm #0551535.

 

 

Will and Codicil of Barzillai Field of North Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1831) *

        In the name of God, Amen. I Barzillai Field of North Bridgewater in the County of Plymouth, Yeoman, do, on this sixth day of September Eighteen Hundred and thirty-one, make and publish this, my last Will and Testament, in manner following viz,

In the first place I give to my wife the use and improvement of one third part of the whole of the Dwellinghouse, of which I own one half– I also give her one quarter part of the crop of corn, grain apples potatoes and garden sauce, which shall be raised annually on all my lands in North Bridgewater  I also hereby order and direct my two sons to keep a cow for their mother, Summer and winter, each & every year, and to furnish their Mother with fire wood at the door ready cut, sufficient to support one fire. I also give her one half of my annual income of the water privilege which I conveyed to Perkins & Simmons; I also give the use and improvement of my Pew in the Meeting house to her. These things I give to her while she remains my widow. I also give to her at her disposal, all my household Furniture, and one cow, which she may chose out of my stock of cattle.

I give to my Daughter Mary Cheesman One Hundred Dollars to be paid in one year from my decease

I give devise and bequeath to my son John my part of the newest Barn, and one half part of all the land I own in North Bridgewater excepting my part of a lot which was bought of Oliver Snell, and excepting and providing further, that in estimating and settling off his half of my Land, the lot which I have given him by Deed shall be taken into consideration, and he shall have no more than half of my land, if the lot which I have conveyed to him were now mine, as the house lot which I have conveyed to him in an advancement of part of his portion of my Estate, To have and to hold the aforesaid Estate, to him and his heirs forever

I give, devise and bequeath to my son Lucius, his heirs and assigns all my part of a lot of land, which was bought of Oliver Snell. Also the half part of all the other lands I own in North Bridgewater, and my part of the oldest Barn, and all my part of the Dwelling house excepting such use and improvement as I give my wife and my Daughter Chloe. I also give him my part of the corn house and shed and wood house adjoining my house. These Legacies to my two sons I give them upon conditions that they, their heirs and assigns shall furnish their mother with wood as aforesaid and with a quarter part of the annual crops and the keeping of a Cow as before directed

I give to my Daughter Chloe, her heirs and assigns, all my part of a Cedar swamp in Stoughton, and my Will is that while my wife lives in my house, my Daughter Chloe shall have the privilege of living with her, and the use of a seat in my Pew, and after the decease of my wife, my will is and I hereby give to Chloe, for her own personal use, and for no other purpose, the use and improvement of the South East room in my house, with the closet therein, with all necessary privilege of using the celler, well and oven and Porch so much as may be needful and necessary for her own convenience.

I also give her the use of one seat in my Pew while she lives.

I give to my Brother Bethuel all my wearing apparel.

I give, devise and bequeath to my two sons John & Lucius, their heirs and assigns all the rest, residue and remainder of my estate of whatsoever name or nature, not herein before disposed of, they to pay the legacy of one Hundred dollars to their sister Mary.

Lastly I appoint Jesse Perkins, of North Bridgewater sole Executor of this my last Will and Testament

  In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal the day and year above written

                                                                                                                                                Barzillai Field                   (seal)

Signed, sealed and published by the said Barzillai Field declaring this to be his last Will and Testament in presence of us, who at his request, and in his presence have subscribed our names as witnesses

        Fisk Ames

        Jesse Perkins

        Mary A. Snell

 

Whereas I Barzillai Field of North Bridgewater, did on the sixth day of September 1831 make and publish my last Will and Testament, I do on this twenty seventh day of August 1832, make & publish this Codicil to my said last Will and Testament in manner following viz  I give, devise and bequeath to my Daughter Chloe the sum of Two Hundred Eighty five Dollars thirty seven cents in lieu of a certain Cedar Swamp lying in Stoughton, which I have sold since the date of my aforesaid Will; and the said sum of Two hundred Eighty five Dollars thirty seven cents I hereby order and direct my two sons John and Lucius to pay to their sister Chloe in one year from my decease.

   And it is my desire that this codicil be annexed to and made part of my said last Will and Testament. In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal the 27th day of August 1832

                                                                                                                                                Barzillai Field                   (seal)

Signed, sealed, published and declared by the said Barzillai Field, to be a Codicil to his last Will and Testament and to be taken as a part thereof in presence of us

        Jesse Perkins

        Zechariah Gurney

        Ephraim Cole

 

Presented for probate on the first Tuesday of April, 1839, by Jesse Perkins, the Executor therein named, and proved by Jesse Perkins, one of the witnesses to both the will and the codicil.

 

To the Hon Court of Probate for the County of Plymouth.

                                The subscriber having been appointed Executor of the Will of Barzillai Field late of North Bridgewater deceased, hereby declines to accept the trust.

                April 22, 1839                                                                                                     Jesse Perkins

 

Lucius Field, of North Bridgewater, was granted administration with will annexed of the estate of Barzillai Field, late of North Bridgewater, yeoman, on 2 Apr. 1839, Jesse Perkins, the Executor named having in writing declined that trust, with Jesse Perkins and David Ames, both of North Bridgewater, as sureties.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Barzillai Field, late of North Bridgewater, not dated, was appraised by Weston Simmons, William French, and Ephm. Brett, his real estate totaled $5540, including the homestead valued at $3300, and $350 for the water privileges. The personal estate totaled $1312.51, including $588.10 in notes of hand, and $130.58 in cash on hand. Lucius Field, the administrator, gave his oath to the inventory on the first Tuesday in October 1839.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 81, pp. 163-166, 492, from FHL microfilm #0555266, and Vol. 10A, p. 501.

 

 

Will and Codicil of Bethuel Field of North Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1831) *

        In the name of God Amen. I Bethuel Field of North Bridgewater in the County of Plymouth Yeoman, do, on this sixth day of September Eighteen hundred thirty one, make and publish this my last Will and testament in manner following viz I give, devise and bequeath to John Field son of my brother Barzillai his heirs and assigns my part of the newest Barn, which I own, and one half part of all the land which I own in North Bridgewater.

I give devise and bequeath to Lucius Field son of my Brother Barzillai one half part of all the land I own in North Bridgewater, and all my right and title to buildings (Except the Barn before given to John) to have and to hold to him the said Lucius his heirs and assigns forever.

I give, devise and bequeath to Chloe Field, Daughter of my Brother Barzillai all the Cedar swamp which I own in Stoughton, to her, her heirs and assigns forever.

I give devise and bequeath to the aforesaid John and Lucius Field their heirs and assigns, all the rest, residue and remainder of my Estate of whatsoever name or nature. – And I hereby appoint Jesse Perkins of North Bridgewater sole Executor of this my last will and testament

        In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal the day and year above written

                                                                                                                                                Bethuel Field                                     (seal)

Signed, sealed and published by the said Bethuel Field, declaring this to be his last Will and testament in presence of us, who at his request and in his presence have subscribed our names as witnesses

        Fisk Ames

        Jesse Perkins

        Mary A Snell

 

                Whereas I Bethuel Field of North Bridgewater, did on the sixth day of September 1831 make and publish my last will and testament, I do on this twenty seventh day of August 1832 make and publish this Codicil to my said last will and testament in manner following Viz.

I give devise and bequeath to Chloe Field Daughter of my brother Barzillai Field the sum of Two Hundred eighty five Dollars, thirty seven cents, in lieu of a Certain Cedar swamp lying in Stoughton, which I have sold, and I hereby order and direct John and Lucius Field to pay their sister Chloe the aforesaid sum, out of the Estate which I have given them in one year from my decease

And it is my desire that this Codicil be annexed to and made a part of my said last will and testament  In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this 27th day of August 1832.

                                                                                                                                                Bethuel Field                                     (seal)

Signed, sealed, published and declared by the said Bethuel Field to be a codicil to his last Will and testament, and to be taken as part thereof in presence of us

        Jesse Perkins

        Zechariah Gurney

        Ephraim Cole

 

Presented for probate on the first Tuesday of Apr. 1849 by Jesse Perkins, the Executor therein named, the Will proved by Fisk Ames and Jesse Perkins, two of the witnesses, and the Codicil proved by Jesse Perkins, one of the witnesses. Letters Testamentary were granted to Jesse Perkins, the Executor therein named.

 

Jesse Perkins, of North Bridgewater, was appointed as Executor of the last Will and Testament of Bethuel Field, Late of North Bridgewater, Yeoman, on 3 Apr. 1849, with Ansel Perkins and Isaac Perkins, both of North Bridgewater, as sureties.

Ephraim Howard, Ephraim Brett and Weston Simmons, all of North Bridgewater, were appointed to appraise the estate of Bethuel Field, late of North Bridgewater, on 3 Apr. 1849.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Bethuel Field, late of North Bridgewater, Yeoman, was appraised on 8 June 1849, his real estate valued at $2640, but no personal estate. Jesse Perkins, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on the first Tuesday of July 1849.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 91, pp. 127-129, 321-322, from FHL microfilm #0555640, and Vol. 2H, p. 195.

 

 

Will of Daniel Field of North Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1831) *

                In the name of God, Amen: I, Daniel Field of North Bridgewater in the County of Plymouth, Gentleman, being of sound mind and memory, Blessed be Almighty God for the same, do, this eleventh day of May, in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and thirty one, do hereby make and declare this my last Will and Testament, as follows, viz, ~

First. I appoint Jesse Perkins of North Bridgewater Executor of this my said last Will and Testament, constituting him to that trust and authority, as shall be described here after – after the payment of my just debts and funeral charges are paid by my Executor – I dispose of my Estate as follows ~

        I give to my Daughter Patty one hundred dollars, one half thereof to be paid her in one year from my decease, and the other half in two years from my decease.

        I give to my Grand-son Marshall Field fifty dollars to be paid him when he shall arrive at the age of twenty one years.

        I give to my Grand-son, Waldo Field twenty five dollars, when he shall arrive to the age of twenty one years.

        I give unto my Grand-son Perez Field twenty five dollars to be paid him when he shall arrive to the age of twenty one years.

        I give unto my Grandaughter Hannah Field my best bed.

        After payment of my just debts and legacies aforesaid, I give and devise all my Estate, wherever the same may be situated, or found, of every description, unto Jesse Perkins, my Executor, above named, to have and to hold the same to the uses following, viz, to the use of my son Zopher Field and his wife Bernice during their joint lives, and to the survivor during life, and if my Real Estate should ever be redeemed out of the hands of Micha Packard, the same to be applied, with my personal Estate, sufficient for the comfortable maintenance & support of my said son and his said wife, or either of them – or if the rents, profits and income of said estate, either Real or Personal, should be insufficient for the comfortable maintenance of my son Zopher and his wife – after my just debts and legacies are paid out of the same – then my said Executor and Trustee is hereby fully authorised and impowered to make sale from time to time of such part or portion of my Real Estate (should I leave any) as shall by my Executor and Trustee be found necessary for that purpose, and to apply the proceeds of said sale as in his judgment he shall think proper for their comfortable support and maintenance, and the longest liver of them.

        I likewise authorise and fully empower my said Executor to sell and to give proper deeds of all real estate by him sold, well executed and delivered to the purchasers, for the purpose of conveying this Will into effect, as I have herein stated as above. He the said Executor first giving bonds to the Judge of Probate for the faithful performance of his trust – and the disposal of the proceeds as are herein directed, within one year from my decease, or sooner if expedient.

        After the decease of my son Zopher Field and his wife Bernice, I give unto each one of my Grandchildren, who are the children of Zopher Field one dollar each – and should any Real Estate be left after the decease of my son Zopher Field and his wife unsold and not disposed of by my Executor and Trustee I give and devise the same to my two youngest Grand-sons, children of Zopher Field, viz, Charles Copeland Field William Lawrance Field, to have and to hold the same to them, their heirs and assigns in equal halves forever. Should my Executor and Trustee decease before my son and his wife the Judge of Probate shall appoint his successor.

                        In testimony whereof, I, the said Daniel Field, hereunto set my hand and seal to this my last Will and Testament, revoking all former Wills by me made, the day and year above written.

        N. B. The words should my Executor and Trustee decease before my son and his wife, the Judge of Probate shall appoint his successor, was put in before signing.

                                                                                                                                                Daniel Field                                      (seal)

        Signed, sealed, published and declared by the said Daniel Field to be his last Will and Testament in presence of us, who in the presence of the Testator and each other, and at his request, hereunto subscribe our names as witnesses.

        Benjamin Richards

        William Hall

        Albert Howard

 

Presented for probate on 5 Apr. 1836, and proved by Benjamin Richards and William Hall, two of the subscribing witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Jesse Perkins of North Bridgewater, Esquire, on 5 Apr. 1836.

 

Benjamin Richards of Randolph, County of Norfolk, Zenas Brett and Linus Howard, both of North Bridgewater, were appointed to appraise the estate of Daniel Field, late of North Bridgewater, Gentleman, on 5 Apr. 1836. The Inventory of the Estate of Daniel Field, late of North Bridgewater, Gentleman, was dated 2 May 1836, his real estate valued at $4567.50, including his homestead farm of about 57 acres with buildings and a mill privilege valued at $3350, and his personal estate valued at $173.55. Jesse Perkins Esquire, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 16 May 1836.

 

Jesse Perkins, of North Bridgewater, Executor of the estate of Daniel Field, late of North Bridgewater, petitioned for a division of certain undivided lands owned by Daniel Field jointly with George Field in North Bridgewater on 5 July 1836.

 

Jesse Perkins notified the court that the personal estate of Daniel Field, late of North Bridgewater, was insufficient for the payment of his debts on 7 Mar. 1837.

 

Benjamin Richards of Randolph, County of Norfolk, and Linus Howard of North Bridgewater were appointed to examine the claims against the estate of Daniel Field, late of North Bridgewater, on 11 Mar. 1837. Claims totaled $1363.14, including $960.81 owed to Micha Packard.

 

Benjamin Richards of Randolph, County of Norfolk, Zenas Brett and Linus Howard, both of North Bridgewater, were appointed to sever and divide the undivided lands in North Bridgewater owned jointly by Daniel Field and George Field on 4 Oct. 1836. The division was dated 30 Dec. 1837, and approved in Jan. 1838.

 

* Trasnscribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 78, pp. 122-125, 163-164, and 397, from FHL microfilm #0555264, Vol. 79, pp. 65, 402-403, and Vol. 80, p. 3-4.

 

 

Will of Fobes Field of North Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1826) *

In the name of God Amen. I Fobes Field of North Bridgewater in the County of Plymouth, being weak in body, but of sound mind, do therefore declare this my last Will & Testament in manner following, viz. I give and devise unto Daniel Field Junr. & George Field, Sons of Lieut. Zophar Field, all my homestead farm with the buildings thereon to them & their heirs forever, Saving & excepting what I give to Melinda Field to improve as herein after described. Also I give unto Said Daniel Field Jr & George Field three other lots of land, to them & their heirs – one lot containing fifteen acres, more or less, which I bought of Isaac Brett – one lot containing twenty acres, more or less, which I bought of Doctor Crafts – one other lot containing forty acres, more or less, near Alvin Snell’s adjoining the one last mentioned: but the use & improvement of the real estate which I give to Daniel & George aforesaid, I give unto my brother Daniel Field till said Daniel Junr. & George are of lawful age; & if my brother Daniel should decease before said Daniel Junr. & George are of lawful age, my will is that the rents & profits of said real Estate shall go exclusively to the benefit of the Said Daniel & George – The three last mentioned lots of Land are owned by me & my brother Daniel & I give to said Daniel & George only the half which I own.

        I give unto the widow Rebecca Field, Widow of my brother Richard, deceased, the use & improvement of the land & buildings which I own in Claremont in the State of New Hampshire, during her life. – I give unto the children of my brother Richard, who shall be living at the time of their mother’s decease, the said land & buildings in Claremont, to them & their heirs, to be equally divided among them at their mother’s decease. – I give unto my brother Daniel Field my part of a lot of land we own in Abington, to him & his heirs. – I give unto my brothers Barzillai, Bethuel & Waldo, & to my sister Susanna Cary, Fifty dollars each – I give unto the children of my brother William, deceased, four dollars each. – I give unto the three children of my Nephew Waldo Field, deceased, three dollars each. I give unto Melinda Field the use of the South front room & bedroom & the South half of the Kitchen of my house, with the privilege of using the oven, cellar & well so much as will be necessary for her convenience; & a right to get so much firewood off of my farm as will be necessary to Support one fire. The uses & privileges aforesaid I give to her while she remains unmarried & no longer. – Also I give to her one third part of my sheets, one quarter of my Iron Ware, my smallest brass kettle, Six green chairs, one feather bed with clothing sufficient to furnish it, & one set of Knives & forks. I give to my sister Susanna Cary, one pair of Sheets. I give unto my brother Daniel all the rest of my Sheets. – And I appoint my brothers, Daniel Field & Barzillai Field, Executors of this my last Will & Testament. – In witness whereof I the said Fobes Field have to this my Will set my hand & Seal this fifth day of August Eighteen hundred twenty Six –

                                                                                                                                                Fobes Field                                        (seal)

The within written instrument was signed, Sealed, published & declared by the within named Fobes Field to be his last Will & Testament in presence of us who at his request & in his presence have subscribed our names as witnesses thereto. –                                   Jesse Perkins

        August 5. 1826                                                                                                            Ichabod Howard

                                                                                                                                                William Hall

 

Presented for probate on 5 Sept. 1826, and proved by Jesse Perkins and William Hall, two of the witnesses, the executors therein named having refused, Letters of Administration with the will annexed was granted to Jesse Perkins of No. Bridgewater.

 

To the Hon. Wilkes Wood Esq. Judge of Probate for the Coty. of Plymo.

  We the subscribes, being named in the last Will and Testament of Fobes Field, as Executors thereof, do hereby Signify & declare to your Honor our refusal of that trust. And we request that Jesse Perkins be appointed Admr. with the Will annexed on the Estate of sd. Fobes Field.

        Sept. 5. 1826                                                                                                                Daniel Field

                                                                                                                                                Barzillai Field

 

Jesse Perkins, of North Bridgewater, Gentleman, was granted administration with will annexed of the estate of Fobes Field, late of North Bridgewater, on 5 Sept. 1826, who died testate naming Daniel Field and Barzillai Field as executors of his estate, but they both refused.

 

Howard Carey, Darius Howard and John May, all of North Bridgewater, were appointed to appraise the estate of Fobes Field, late of North Bridgewater, on 5 Sept. 1826. The Inventory was dated 12 Sept. 1826, his real estate valued at $4563.50, and his personal estate valued at $1448.28. Jesse Perkins, the Administrator with the Will annexed, gave his oath to the inventory on 18 Sept. 1826, and he was directed to sell all the personal estate of the deceased which was not specifically devised by the will.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 63, p. 10-12, from FHL microfilm #0550912, Vol. 61, p. 457-458, and Vol. 63, p. 49-50.

 

 

Will of Jabez Field of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1800) *

   In the name of God amen. I Jabez Field of Bridgwater in the County of Plymouth yeoman, being of sound disposing mind & memory thanks be to God for the same do this sixth day of February in the year of our Lord eighteen hundred, make publish pronounce & declare this my last Will and Testament as followeth, viz

First  I will that all my just debts, funeral charges, & such Legacies as is herein after willed and bequeathed shall be paid by my Executors herein after named

Item I give and bequeath to my Son William Field one hundred & eighty Dollars thirty dollars of which sum is now due to me from him my said Son William which I hold his Note of hand for dated December the ninth seventeen hundred and ninety seven, the remaining one hundred & fifty Dollars I have enabled my two Sons (to wit) Fobes Field and Daniel Field to sign two Notes of hand payable to him my said Son William; one for the sum of fifty Dollars payable in nine months after my decease; and the other for the Sum of one hundred Dollars payable in one year after my decease: and I order my said Executors herein after named to deliver up to my said Son William all the before mentioned Notes within sixty days after my decease, this together with what I have heretofore given him I consider to be his full share of my Estate. –

 Item. I give and bequeath to my Son Barzillai Field one Dollar to be paid him by my Executors herein after named, this together with what I have heretofore given him, I consider to be his full share of my Estate. –

Item  I give and bequeath to my Son Bethuel Field one Dollar to be paid him by my executors herein after named, this together with what I have heretofore given him I consider to be his full share of my Estate –

 Item. I give and bequeath to my Son Richard Field one Dollar to be paid him by my Executors herein after named, this together with what I have heretofore given him I consider to be his full share of my Estate –

 Item I give and bequeath to my Son Ephraim Field, Eighteen Dollars to be paid him by my Executors herein after named this together with what I have heretofore given him I consider to be his full share of my Estate. –

Item I give and bequeath to my Son Waldo Field one hundred & fifty Dollars to be paid him by my Executors herein after mentioned this together with what I have heretofore given him I consider to be his full share of my Estate. –

Item I give and bequeath to my Daughter Susanna Cary the Wife of Moses Cary one hundred and fifty Dollars to be paid to her by my Executors herein after mentioned this together with what I have heretofore given her, I consider to be her full share of my Estate –

And I do hereby ordain constitute & appoint my two Sons (to wit) Fobes Field and Daniel Field to be joint Executors of this my last Will and Testament, and I give devise and bequeath to them the said Fobes & Daniel my said sons their heirs and assigns forever all the rest and residue of my Estate both real, personal and mixed of what name or nature soever not herein before willed & disposed of, they paying all my just debts, funeral Charges, and all Legacies herein willed given & bequeathed, and I do hereby revoke disallow and render null & void, all other and former Wills made by me, ratifying & confirming this and this only as & for my last Will & Testament. In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand & Seal the day & year first above written. –

        signed sealed published pronounced & declared

        by the said Jabez Field the Testator as & for his last

        Will and Testament, in the presence of us

        who by his request and in his presence

        and we in the presence of each other have

        hereunto subscribed our names as Witnesses                                                                         his

                                Charles Snell                                                                                             Jabez  X  Field                                  (seal)

                                Amasa Tribou                                                                                                      mark

                                Danl. Snow

 

Presented for probate on 7 Jan. 1805 by Fobes Field and Daniel Field, the Executors therein named, and proved by Daniel Snow Esqr. and Charles Snell, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Fobes Field and Daniel Field, the before named Executors.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 40, p. 156-158, from FHL microfilm #0550901.

 

 

Will of Job Field of Bridgewater, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1748) *

In the Name of God amen The Sixteenth Day of January In the year of our Lord 1747/8 I Job Field of Bridgwater In the County of Plimouth in Newengland Yeoman Being very Sick and week in Body But of perfect Mind and Memory Thanks be given unto God therefor Calling to mind the mortallity of my Body and Knowing that it is appointed for men once to Dye Do make and ordaine this my Last will and Testament That is to Say principally and first of all I give and recommend My Soul into the hands of God that gave it, hoping through The merits Death and passion of my Saviour Jesus Christ To have full and free Pardon and forgiveness of all my Sins and to Inherit Everlasting Life: and my Body I Commit to the Earth to be Decently Buried at the Discretion of my Executor hereafter named Nothing doubting but att the Generall Resurection I Shall receive the Same againe by the mighty power of God and as Touching Such worldly Estate wherewith it hath pleased god to Bless me in this Life I Give Demise and Dispose of the Same in the following mannar and form viz: first my will is that all my Just Debts and Duties as I do owe in Right or Conscience to any mannar of Person or Persons what Soever shall be well and truly Contented and paid in Convenient time after my deceas by my Executor hereafter named –

I Give to my Brother Dainel Field to him and his hairs for Ever five Shillings Lawfull money of newengland and that he there with be Contented –

I Give and bequeath unto my Sister mihitabel Manton five Shillings Lawfull mony of Newengland to her and her hairs for Ever and That She there with be Contented

I Give and bequeath unto my Sister Abegal field five shillings Lawfull mony of Newengland to her and her hairs forever and That She therewith be Contented

I Give and Bequeath unto the Children of Charles Biswick five Shilling Lawfull mony of Newengland to them and there heirs forever and that they therewith be Contented and that the Several Sums of mony be paid unto the above named persons Within one years time after my Decase by my Executor hereafter named

I Give and Bequeth unto my Brother Joseph Feild whome I appoints and Likewise Constatute make and ordaine my only and Sole Executor of this my Last will and testament all the Remainder of my Estate Both real and Parsonal mony and Movables whatsoever of Right belonging to me to be to sd. Josepeh field his heirs and assignes forever to be possessed and Enjoyed and I do hereby uterly Disallow Revoke and disannul all and Every other formar testaments Wills and Legacies Bequests and Executors by me in any wayes before this time Named Willed and bequeathed Rattifying and Confirming This and no other to be my Last will and testament In Witness whereof I have hereunto Sett my hand and Seal the Day and year above Written –

Signed Sealed Published Pronounced and Declared by the Said Job Field as his Last Will and Testement in the Presence of us the Subscribars

Akerman Pettengell

Daniel Pettengell

Edward Howard                                                                                                                  Job Field                                             (seal)

 

Probated on 4 Apr. 1748, and proved by Ackerman Pettengell, Daniel Pettingell and Edward Howard, the Witnesses.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 11, p. 525-526, from FHL microfilm #0551537.

 

 

Will of Joseph Field of Bridgewater, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1754) *

In the Name of God, Amen, the Eleventh Day of March, Seventeen Hundred and Fifty Four, I Joseph Field of Bridgwater in the County of Plimouth in New England Yeoman, being sick and weak in body, but of perfict mind and Memory Thanks be Given to God, there fore Calling unto mind the Mortality of my body and knowing that it is Appointed for all men Once to Die Do make and Ordain this my Last Will and Testament, that is to say, principally and first of all I Give and Recommend my soul into the hands of God that Gave it, and my Body I Recommend to the Earth, to be Buried in Decent Christain Burial at the Discretion of my Executor nothing Doubting but at the Generall Resurrection I shall Receive I shall Receive the same by the mighty power of God; and as touchg. such worldly Estate wherewith it hath pleased God to Bless me in this Life, I Give Demise & Dispose of the same in the Following manner and form—

Imps. I Give and Bequeath to Rachell my Dearly beloved wife One third part of the Improvemt. of all my Real Estate Dureing Life, also One third part of all my moveable Estate To her & her heirs and assigns forever—

Item, I Give to my Eldest son John Field a minor Two Fifths of all my Real and personall Estate that shall Remain after payment of my Just Debts, and my Children have been brought up I Give it to him his heirs and assign forever—

Item, I Give to Joseph Field my youngest son, a minor Two Fifths of all my Real and personall Estate that shall Remain After the payment of my Just Debts, and my Children have been brought up, I Give it to him his heirs and assigns forever.

Item, I Give to my Daughter Abigail Field One Fifth part of all my Real and personall Estate that shall Remain after the payment of my Just Debts & my Children have been brought up. I Give it to her & her heirs & assigns forever.—

Finally I Do Nominate and appoint my Trusty and well Beloved Frind Abijah Keith of Bridgwater aforesd. to be my Soul Executor of this my Last Will and Testament & Do hereby Give unto my sd. Execr. full power (if Occation Require it) to make Sale of so much of my Lands as my be needful for the Bringing up of my Children or the payment of any Other of my Just Debts, and I Do hereby utterly Dissalow Revoke and Disanull all & Every Other former Testaments Wills, Legacies, & Bequests and Executors by me in any ways before named, Will’d and Bequeathed, Ratifying and Confirming this and no Other to be my last Will and Testament, in Witness whereof I have hereunto sett my hand and seal the Day and year Abovewritten—

Sign’d, Seal’d, publish’d, and Declar’d          }

by the said Joseph Field as his Last                 }

will and Testament, in the presents of             }                                                              Joseph Field                                      (seal)

us the Subscribers —                                          }

Nathl. Bratt

Abijah Thayer

Charles Biswick

 

Presented for probate on 3 June 1754 by the Execr. therein named, and proved by Nathl. Bratt, Abijah Thayer, and Charles Biswick. Letters of Administration were granted to Abiah Keith, of Bridgwater yeoman, the Executor, on 3 June 1754.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of mr. Joseph Feild, late of Bridgwater, was appraised on 21 May 1754, by Nathl. Bratt, Simeon Bratt and Ebenezer Packard, and totaled £254.7.3¼, including his real estate valued at £187. Abiah Keith, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 3 June 1754.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 13, pp. 289-290, 316-317, from FHL microfilm #0551540.

 

 

Will of Elisabeth Finney of Plymouth, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1794) *

In the name of God Amen — I Elisabeth Finney of Plymouth in the County of Plymouth & Commonwealth of Massachusetts, widow, being sick & weak, but of sound disposing mind, and not knowing the day of my death having a mind to settle my worldly estate, do make & ordain this my Last will & testament; commending my soul to the everlasting mercy of God, & my body to a decent funeral, humbly praying for a glorious resurrection thro’ Jesus Christ

Imprimis – I Give to my Daughter Mary Holmes my red cloth riding hood

Item – I Give to my Son Josiah half of my end of the house where I now live, reserving a privilege to my Daughter Ruth as hereafter described, and as much of the house Lot, as with what he purchased heretofore will make him out half the whole Lot—the Bed Bolster & Bedstead which I commonly sleep on, and in consideration of his helping me in my Sickness, &c I Give & bequeath to him all my right in any Lands that are not otherwise disposed of

Item – I Give to my Daughter Ruth all my houshold furniture & wearing apparell, not otherwise disposed of, together with the right of keeping the same in my south west chamber, as long as she lives single, & of living there too, when convenient for her so to do

Item – I give to my Son Thomas the other half of my end of the house reserving the privilege to Ruth as aforesaid, with as much of the house Lot as will make him out half of what I owned before the Sale to Josiah

Lastly – I nominate & appoint my Son Josiah to be the Executor of this my Last will & testament. And in Testimony & confirmation whereof I hereunto Set my hand & Seal this twenty sixth day of September, one thousand seven hundred & ninety four –

Signed, Sealed & declared to be her                                                                                Elisabeth Finney                              (seal)

Last will & testament in presence of –            Andrew Croswell, Patty Weston, Hannah Doten

 

Presented for probate on 11 July 1795 by Josiah Finney, the Executor therein named, and proved by Andrew Croswell Esqr, Patty Weston, and Hannah Doten, all the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Josiah Finney, the before named Executor.

 

Andrew Croswell Esqr., Joseph Croswell, trader, and Elnathan Holmes junr., Gentleman, all of Plymouth were appointed to appraise the Estate of Elisabeth Finney, late of Plymouth, widow, on 11 July 1795. The Inventory of the Goods & Estate of Mrs. Elisabeth Finney, late of Plymouth, totaled £141.10.1½, including her part of the house and garden valued at £105. Josiah Finney, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 13 Feb. 1796.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 35, pp. 293-294, 465-466, from FHL microfilm #0550718.

 

 

Will of Josiah Finney of Plymouth, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1723) *

In the Name of God amen: I Josiah Finney of Plymouth in the County of Plymouth in New: England yeoman Being in a disposing mind & memory; blessed be God and Calling to mind my own mortality do make this my Last Will & Testament in manner & form following: In ye first Place I Comitt my Soul into ye Hands of God that gave it me: and my Body to the Grave with a decent Christian Buriall att ye discretion of my Executor; and as to that Worldly Estate that God hath given me: I dispose of it in this manner

Imprimis: I give & Bequeath unto my Loving Son Robert Finney His Heirs & assignes, for Ever all that Seventy acres of Land where He now dwells also a thirty Eight acre Lott near adjoining to Sd Seventy acres; and all my meadow & meadowish ground above ye uppermost dam, att a Place Called Finneys meadows with one Quarter part of my Right in ye Beach.

Item: I give & Bequeath unto my Loving Son Josiah Finney one third Part of ye farm or Homestead where I Live In Quantity on that Side that is next to Captain Mortons to Him & His Heirs & assignes for Ever with one Quarter Part of my Right in ye Beach.

Item: I give & Bequeath unto my Loving Son John Finney His Heirs & assignes for Ever one third Part of my Farm or Homestead where I Live In Quantity, next to His Brother Josiah with ye South Westermost End of my dwelling House & Halfe my Barn (only Some Reserves for Joshua) His Heirs or assignes for Ever; also I give to my Son John my negro man He Paying twenty Pounds to His Brother Joshua.

Item: I give & Bequeath unto my Loving Son Joshua Finney His Heirs & assigns for Ever the other third Part of my Farm or Homestead where I Live In Quantity; also halfe my Right att ye Beach; also my twenty five acres of upland together with all my meadow & meadowish ground att a Place Called Small gains; also ye north Eastermost End of my dwelling House with Halfe my Barn & a Right in my well & Convenience of a way to Said House from His Land & to Sd well with a Sutable Conveniency of Land to lay wood near ye door & ye Priviledge of a way, & in ye well & of Said Land to Continue So Long as the House Continues & no Longer; also twenty Pounds to be Paid to Him by His Brother John Finney as aforesd. and my Will is that all ye Residue of my Land with my meadow & meadowish ground att Finneys meadow below ye uppermost Farm & all my Cedar Swamps with my Quarter part of ye Grist: mill and ye dwelling House belonging to Said mill I do give & Bequeath unto my three Sons Josiah, John & Joshua to them their Heirs & assignes Respectively (In Equal Parts) for Ever

Item: I give & Bequeath unto my Loving Daughter Pheby Finney ye Sum of fourty five Pounds to be Paid out of my moveable Estate by my Executor & all ye Residue of my moveable Estate after all my Just Debts are paid & funerall Charges my mind is That it be Equally divided between my three Loving daughters (viz) Elisabeth Bradford Priscilla Marshall & Pheby Finney or their Heirs.

And Lastly I do nominate & appoint my Loving Son John Finney my Sole Executor of this my Last Will & Testament Hereby Revoking & making null & void all other & former Will or Wills or Codicills by me made & Ratifying & Holding firm & Stable this my Last Will & Testament & no other. In Confirmation hereof I have hereunto Sett my Hand & Seal this Second day of January annoque domini: 1723[/24]

Signed Sealed & declared to be ye Last

Will & Testament of Josiah Finney

abovesd before us Wittnesses                                                                                             Josiah Finney                                   (seal)

James Barnaby

Haviland Torrey

Francis Adams

 

Probated on 2 Jan. 1726[/27], and proved by Haviland Torrey and Francis Adams.

Letters of administration on the estate of Josiah Finney were granted on 12 Jan. 1726[/27] to John Finney, son of the deceased.

 

The inventory was appraised by John Foster, Francis Adams, and Ebenezer Holmes on 5 Jan. 1726/7, and totaled £189:11:8.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 5, p. 219-220, from FHL microfilm #0550511.

 

 

Will of Robert Finney or Phinney of Plymouth, Colony of New Plymouth (1690) *

I Robert Finney of the Town of Plimouth in the Colony of New Plimouth in New England being by Gods Providence bound for Canada to Fight against the French and not knowing what may Happen to me in the voyage And if I should not Live to Come home againe I do make and ordaine these presents to be my Last Will and Testament for the Disposall of all my Worldly Matters I have: Imprs. I do by these presents Revoak frustrate and make voyd and Null all Wills & Testaments be me formerly made and Declared and appoint this to be my Last Will and Testament  Item I Give unto my Brother Jonathan Finney twenty shillings in money

Item I Give unto my Brother Jeremiah Finney twenty Shillings in money.

Item I Give unto my Brother Joshua Finney twenty shillings in money.

Item I Give unto my Sister Hannah Morton ten pounds in money.

Item I Give unto my Sister Elizabeth Finney five pounds in money.

All my debts & Legacies being sattisfied and defrayed I Give and bequeath all my Lands Goods and Chattels & Cattels: vizt all my Estate both Real and personall of all sorts and finds unto my Brother Josiah Finney And I do hereby appoint and Authorize him the said Josiah Finney to be the Whole and Sole Executor of this my last Will and Testament and to see that it be faithfully performed In Witness that this is my Last Will and Testament I the said Robert Finney have hereunto set my hand and seal: this twenty third day of july one thousand six hundred and ninety 1690

Signed Sealed and Delivered                                                                                             Robert Phinney                (seal)

In the presence of us

Thomas Clarke

Eleazer Cushman

 

Thomas Clarke and Eleazer Cushman the Witnesses here named made oath before the County Court at Plimouth March 17th 1690/91 that they were present and Saw the above named Robert Phinney Sign & Seal and heard him Declare this above written to be his last will and Testament and that to the best of their understanding he was of a disposing mind and memory when he so did

                                                                                                                                Attest Saml Sprague Clerk

 

An Inventory of the Estate of Robert Finney late of the Town of Plimouth Deceased Taken and Apprized by us whose names are here unto Subscribed on the fifth day of january 1690/91 [not totaled]

Joseph Warren

Thos. Faunce

 

Josiah Finney Executor to the last Will and Testament of Robert Phinney late of Plimouth Deceased made oath before the County Court at Plimouth March the 17th 1690/91 that the above written is a true Inventory of the Estate of sd deceased so far as he knoweth and that when more shall be discovered to him he will make it known.

                                                                                                                                Attest Saml Sprague Clerk

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 1, pp. 81, 82.

 

 

Will of Joan Fish of Dartmouth, County of Bristol, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1744) *

In The Name of God Amen The fifth day of Aprill one thousand Seven hundred and fortey foure 1744

I Joan Fish of Dartmouth In the Countey of Bristall In The province of the Massatheusets Bay In New England Widdow Being Weak of Bodey But of perfect mind and Memorey Thanks Be to God and Calling to mind Its once Appointed for all men and Women once to Dye I Doe make This my Laste Will and Testament In manner and Forme As Followeth That Is to Say Firste I Recomend my Soule to god that gave It and my Bodey to the Earth to Be deasently Buried att the Descretion of my Executor here after Named and as Touching Sutch Worldly goods and Estate as It hath pleased god to Bless me With In this Life I give and Despose of as foloweth

Imprimis: My Will Is that all my Just Depts and Funerall charges Be first paid and Leaned out of my Estate

Item – I give & Bequeath to my Daughter Mary Potter Teen Shillings in Bills of Creddit olde Tennure

Item – I give and Bequeath to my Gransun John Wickham Twentey Shillings old Tenure In Bills of Creddit

Item – I give unto my Daughter Abigal Case the wife of John Case Twenty Shillings In the old Tennier

Item.  I give unto my Daughter Johannah Fissher wife of John Fisher Twentey Shillings In Bills of Credit in the old Tennure

Item – I give unto my Son Ebenezer Fish the Som of teen Shillings in Bills of Creddit olde Teannure

Item I give to my Son John Fish Teen Shillings in the old Teannure in Bills of Credditt

Item: I give to my Daughter Susannah Boyse the wife of Benjamin Boyse the Som of Teen Shillings In Bills of Creeditt old Teannure Besides the Teen pounds that I Lent her when her Sister was Sick

Item – I give and Bequeath to my granson Thomas Phillips the Som of fortey pounds In Bills of Credditt In the old Teannure – and one flock Beed and fether pillow and Boulster and a pare of Linnin Sheetes and three Blanketes and Fulled at the mill and one Coverlid and the Biggest Iron Kettle and my Little pott

Item I give and Bequeath to my Granson John Fissher Son of John Fissher the Som of Twentey Shillings in the old Teannure Bills of Creddit

And Farther more My Will and minde Is that these fore going Leaguseies Be paid and ansured that Is to Say – that all my monuery and moveabels Estate Except a little Box which I Keep my Writings In I Give to my Son in Law James Phillips Be Eaqualey Devided Betwixt my three Daughters namly Mehittabell Corrnill wife of William Cornel Hope Philips wife of James Phillipes and Elizabeth Huddelstone Wife of Seth Huddelstone

Item – and I give and Bequeath to my grandson Thomas Phillips all my farming Tooles Belonging to Husbandry

And I Doe ordaine and Constitute My Loving Son Ebenezer Fisch to Be my Sole Executor of this my Laste Will and Testament and I Doe here By Revoke and Disanull all other Wills and Bequeaths Here to Fore made Rattifiing Revoake and Disanull all All other Wills and Bequeathes and this and nother to be my Last Will and Testament –

Signed Sealed published –                                                                                                         her

and Declared By the Said                                                                                                  Joan  H  Fish

Joan Fish to Be her Laste                                                                                                         mark

Will and Testament in the

Presents of Us ~~

        Fear Willcox

        Jonathan Wood

        Thos Trafford

 

Proved by Jonathan Wood and Thomas Trafford, two of the witnesses, on 10 Dec. 1744, and recorded in the Tenth Book of Wills Folio 468:469

The Inventory of the Estate of Joan Fish of Dartmouth, dated 18 Jan. 1744/5, was appraised by Ebenezer Slocum, Timothy Gifford, and James Allen, and totaled £197.3.0, including a Bond from Henery Gidley in the amount of £100. Ebenezer Fish, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 8 Nov. 1745.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Bristol County Probate File “Joan Fish, Dartmouth, 1744,” from FHL microfilm #0575139.

 

 

Will of John Fish of Dartmouth, County of Bristol, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1737) *

The last Will and Testament of John Fish

I John Fish of Dartmouth in the County of Bristol in the province of the Massachusets Bay in New England Yeoman being weakly of body but of a Sound perfect mind memory & Understanding thanks be given unto God; therefore Considering the Uncertainty of this my natural life and the Nesessity of Settling my temporal Estate in order to my great change when it Shall please the Lord to call me hence do for the preventing future trouble in my family make and ordain this my last Will and Testament in manner following (that is to say) First and principally I Commend my Soul to God That gave me my first being hoping through the Sole Merits of Jesus Christ my only Saviour and Redeemer to have full & free pardon of all my Sins and to Inheret everlasting life: And my body I Committ to the Earth therein to be decently buried at the Discretion of my Executrs herein named. And as to that Temporal Estate wherewith the Lord hath been pleased to bless me (After all my Just Debts and funeral Expences are paid & Discharged) I give Devise & Dispose of the Same as followeth

Imps: I give and bequeath Unto Joan my well beloved wife the sum of one hundred pounds in Currant money or of Lawful bills of publick Credit of New England and all the furniture of my house to be wholey at her own Disposal and also the profits & Improvement of all my Cattle with all the Rest & Residue of my personal Estate whatsoever for her better Support & Comfortable maintainance during the time of her natural life.

Item I give and bequeath Unto my son Ebenezer Fish and to his heirs and assignes forever a Certain Tract of land in Dartmouth aforesaid which I have already made over to him my Son Ebenezer by a deed of Gift & also ten Shillings in bills of Credit which is all I intend to bequeath to him of my Estate –

Item I give and bequeath unto my son John Fish & to his heirs & Assigns forever all my homested farm land in Dartmouth aforesaid which I have already made over to him by a deed of gift and also ten Shillings in bills of Credit the which is all I intend to give him of my Estate.

Item. I give and bequeath unto my Daughter Mary Potter (wife of William Potter) her heirs or Assigns the Sum of twenty pounds Currant money or bills of credit as abovesd to be paid by my Exectrs after the Decease of my Wife

Item. I give and bequeath Unto my Daughter Abigal Case (the wife of John Case) her heirs and Assigns the Sum of fifty pounds currant money or bills of Credit as above said to be paid by Execrs. after the Decease of my wife

Item I give and bequeath unto my Daughter Mehitabel Cornel (the wife of William Cornel) her heirs & Assigns the Sum of twenty shillings Currant money or bills of Credit as abovesd to be paid to her by my Executrs after the Decease of my wife

Item I give and bequeath Unto my Daughter Joanna Fisher (the wife of John Fisher) her heirs & Assigns the Sum of fifty pounds Currant money or lawful publick bills of Credit as a fore Said to be paid unto her by my Executors after the Decease of my wife

Item I give and bequeath unto my Daughter Hope Philips (the wife of James Philips) her heirs & Assigns the Sum of fifty pounds Currant money or bills of bills of publick Credit as above said to b paid to her by my Executors af the Decease of my wife ~~

Item I give and bequeath unto my Daughter Susanna Boyce (the wife of Benj: Boyce) her heirs and Assigns the sum of fifty pounds Currant money or Lawful bills of publick Credit as abovesd to be paid to her by my Execrs after the Decease of my wife

Item I give and bequeath unto my Daughter Elizabeth Fish her heirs and Assigns the Sum of Eighty pounds currant money or lawful bills of publick Credit as abovesd to be paid to her by my Execrs after the Decease of my wife I also bequeath unto her my said Daughter Elizabeth the best bed and furniture at any time when She shall se cause to take it into her posseson

Item I give and bequeath Unto my Daughter Sarah Arnold (the wife of Anthony Arnold) her heirs and Assigns the sum of fifty pounds currant money or Lawful bills of publick Credit as abovesaid to be paid to her by my Execrs after the Decease of my wife ~~

Item I give and bequeath unto my four grand Children vizt Sarah William John and Thomas Philips (the Children of my Daughter Alice Philips Deceased) the sum of fifty pounds Currant money or Lawful bills of publick Credit Equally to be Divided amongst them, and to be paid unto them by my Execrs when they arrive to lawful age or on the day of their Marriage that which shall first happen but in case either of my Said four grand Children shall depart this life in their minority that then the portion of the Deceased Shall be Equally divided amongst the Survivours of them. Also further my will is that after the Decease of me and my wife my Executrs shall take into their custody ye portions above bequeathed to my Said grand Children and Improve the Same at Interest for the best advantage of my Said grand Children rendring them the Interest with the principal at the time above Expressed ~~

Item. I give and bequeath unto my grandson Thomas Philips and to his heirs and Assigns forever all my Right and Interest in and to the Undivided lands in Dartmouth aforesaid and to come into his possession when he shall attain to lawful age but in case my said grandson Shall Depart this life in his Minority that then the portion given him Shall Devolve to his Said two brothers my grandsons Equally to be Divided between them their heirs and Assigns forever

Item I give and bequeath unto my grandson Joshua Rathbone (the son of my Dughter Patience Rathbone Deceased) the Sum of fifty pounds in Currant money or lawful bills of publick Credit as abovesd to be paid by my executors when he shall attain to Lawfull age, to Receive the Same, but in case my Said grandson Joshua shall die in his Minority or Leave no Lawfull Issue to Represent him in the Injoyment of said portion that then the said fifty pounds shall devolve to my aforesaid four grandchildren Vizt Sarah William John and Thomas philip or the Survivors of them Equally to be Divided ~

Item further it is my Will and mind that in Case I have not herein before given and Devised unto my wife a Sufficiency of my Estate for her Comfortable Support and Maintainance during the Term of her Natural Life that then she shall have & Enjoy so much more of my Estate given and bequeathed to my five Daughters namely Abigal Case, Hope Philips Susanna Boyce Elizabeth Fish and Sarah Arnold as shall be Sufficient for her Support each of my Said Daughters bearing an equal proportion thereof. also my will is that whatsoever of my personal Estate remain at money after the Decease of my wife or Undisposed of by her that then the Said money to be Equally Divided between my five Daughters Last named, but my will is that if any of my houshold goods Remain as above Said then the Said household Goods so remaining to be Equally Divided amongst four of my said Daughters Namely Abigal Case, Hope Philips Susanna Boyce and Elizabeth Fish, or cattle so remaining to be as above said Equally Divided amongst my four Daughters last named ~~

finally Of this my last Will and Testament I doe Nominate Constitute and Appoint my loving Son Ebenezer Fish of Dartmouth aforesaid Sole Executor Desiring him to take care and See the Same in Every Respect faithful and truely fullfilled and performed According to the true Intent and meaning of the Same. And by these presents I do Revoke make Null & Void all and every other Testaments and Wills whatsoever by me heretofore made or declared, Ratifying and Confirming & allowing this and no other to be my Last Will & Testament

In Wittness whereof I have hereunto Set my hand and fixed my Seal this fourth day of the month called April in the tenth Year of his Majesties Reign George the Second by the Grace of God King of great Brittain &c: Annoqe domini 1737

Signed Sealed published pronounced             }                                                                  his mark

and Declared by the said John Fish                  }                                                              John  F  Fish

this the above written to be his                                                                                             and Seal                             (seal)

Last Will and Testament

In the presence of

William Ricketson

Benjamin Gifford

Wm. Bowdish

 

Letters of Administration were granted to Ebenezer Fish, of Dartmouth, yeoman, on 20 Apr. 1742.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of John Fish, late of Dartmouth, dated 8 Mar. 1741/2, was appraised by Ebenezer Slocum, James Allen, and Timothy Gifford, and totaled £721.1.1, including cash and bonds, but no real estate. Ebenezer Fish, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 19 Apr. 1743.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Bristol County Probate File “John Fish, Dartmouth, 1742,” from FHL microfilm #0575139.

 

 

Will of Edward Fobes of Bridgewater, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1736) *

In the Name of God amen. The twenty Sixth day of August Anno Domini. 1736 ~

I Edward Fobes of Bridgewater in the County of Plymouth in New-England being Sick & weak in Body, but of perfect Mind & Memory Thanks be to God therefore Calling to mind the mortality of my Body Do Ordain & Make this my last Will & Testament in the following manner First I Give my Soul into the Hands of God who gave it & my Body I Commit to the Earth to be decently buried at ye Discretion of my Executor hereafter Mentioned, And as touching my worldly Estate I Dispose thereof as followeth My just Debts funeral Charge & other Expenses being allowed—

Imprimis I Give to my Hon’d Mother Abigail Fobes the Improvemt. of ten acres of Land where She shall think best & of one half of my Dwelling House & a Third part of the Iron mine growing on my Land All these for her Comfort during her natural life— Also I Give her two Cows to be at her own Dispose—

Itm I Give my Brother John Fobes to him his Heirs and assigns forever A Piece of Land joining to his own Land by the Dam Extended to be Six acres and also Eighteen acres of my Home Land on the West Side joining to ye Land of Ichabod Wade, and also a Third Part of my Iron Mine, Likewise my Right in the West Cedar Swamp And in the little Cedar Swamp And also one half of my Right in Reversion in that Part of ye Estate which was Set off to my sd Mother in ye Settlement of my Fathers Estate, I Also Give to my sd Brother One half of my moveable Estate Excepting particulars hereafter otherwise disposed of obliging my sd Brother to Pay one half of my Funeral Charges and also one half of my other just Debts and Expenses, obliging him also to Pay unto Huldah Edson the Daughter of Captn Josiah Edson of sd Bridgewater the Sum of Twenty Pounds in Bills of Publick Credit forthwith after my Decease which I do Give her freely as a Token of my Love~~

Itm I Give to my Brother Josiah Fobes his Heirs and assigns forever all that Part of my Home Lands which I have not Given to my Brother John Fobes before mentioned. Also a Third Part of my Iron Mine, I Give also to my sd Brother Josiah Fobes all my Right in the Buildings and ye Land whereon they Stand Reserving to my sd Mother as before Expressed Also my Right in the old Cedar Swamp, (so called) & a Quarter of a Purchase Right in the Undivided Lands in sd Bridgewater And also my Right in Reversion in that Part of the Estate which was Set off to my sd Mother in the Settlement of my Fathers Estate, Also I Give him my House & my best Saddle, & one Half of my Moveable Estate Excepting two Cows before mentioned obliging him to Pay to my four Sisters Twenty five Pounds as hereafter Expressed, Obliging him also to Pay one half of my Funeral Charges & of my other just Debts & Expenses—

Itm I Give to my Sister Mary Hudson Five Pounds to be paid by my sd Brother Josiah Fobes within two Years after my Decease, Itm I Give to my Sister Abigail Snell the Sum of five Pounds to be paid to her within two Years after my Deceased by my sd Brother Josiah Fobes—

Itm I Give to my Sister Sarah[?] Fobes the Sum of ten Pounds to be paid to her within one Year after my Decease by my sd Brother Josiah Fobes—

Itm I Give to my Sister Silence Fobes five Pounds to be paid to her by my sd Brother Josiah Fobes within four Years after my Decease—

And I do Nominate & appoint my Uncle Ephraim Fobes of sd Bridgewater to be the Sole Executor of this my last Will & Testament—

Signed Sealed Pronounced & Declared by                                                                     Edward Fobes                  seal)

ye sd Edward Fobes to be his Last Will

& Testament In the Presence of us

Robert Washburn

Josiah Edson junr.  Bethiah Keith

 

Proved on 24 Sept. 1736 by Robert Washburn, Josiah Edson junr. and Bethiah Keith, the witnesses.

 

A true Inventory of the Estate both real & personal of Edward Fobes late of Bridgewater Deceased who dyed Decembr [sic] ye 15th 1736, appraised by Samuel Keith, Josiah Edson, and Nathaniel Willis on 4 Oct. 1736, totaled £1398.13.6, his housing, lands and cedar swamp valued at £1148. Ephraim Fobes, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 3 May 1737.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 7, pp. 227-228, 296, from FHL microfilm #0550513. The month of death given in the inventory of December cannot be correct, since will was proved in September and the inventory was taken in October. The Bridgewater Vital Records gives the date of his death as Sept. 15, 1736.

 

 

Will of Ephraim Fobes of Bridgewater, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1753) *

        In the Name of God Amen; This Twentyeth Day of March Anno Domi, 1753, I Ephraim Fobes of Bridgwater in the County of Plimouth in New England Gentleman, though at present under Some Decays of Body, yet Blessed be God, am of a Disposing mind And Memory, But Calling to mind the Mortality of Body, and knowing that it is appointed for all men Once to Dye Do Therefore now proceed to make and Ordain this my last Will and Testament (Vizt.) Principally and First of all I Recommend my Soul into the Hands of the Great God Who gave it hoping through the Merrits, Mediation, and Intercession of the Lord Jesus Christ to Obtain the Full parden of all my Sins, Acceptance with God, and to Inherit Eternall Life—

And My Body I commit to the Earth to be Decently Inter’d at the Discretion of my Executrix hereafter named, not Doubting but at the Resurrection, I Shall Receive the same again, by the Power of God Almighty, And Touching Such Worldly Estate wherewith, a Good God has Blessed me, I Give & Dispose of, in the Following maner, First, my Will is that all my Just Debts and Funerall Charges be paid in a Conveniant Time after my Decease by my Excutor out of that part of my Estate which I have herein Given unto him  (2ly) I Give and Bequeath unto my Son Ephraim Fobes (whome I appoint and make the Sole Execr of this my last Will and Testament) To him his heirs and Assigns forever, my Homstead extending from the Town River to the head of the Meadow’s (so called) Also my Trulling mill with a strip of Land Lying between the Trench and Side River, Including its Priviledge Reserv’d in a Lease I Gave to Thomas Ames, also all my land Lying by Capt. Josiah Edson’s Homstead, on both Sides of the Roade, Also my part of three peices of Meadow which I hold with my Brother William Fobes in Equall Shares, The First peice lying at aplace called the head of the Meadow’s Another peice being that part of alott lying at aplace called Eagles=nest, which my Father and I Bought of Timothy Keith, the Third peice is alott of Meadow lying in Flaggy So called which I hold in Partnership with my sd. Brother William, also all my right in the Old Ceder Swamp (so called) Being part of Two Lotts also all my right in nine acres of Land which I Laid Out, Bounded Southerly by the Widdow Ames’s Land, and northerly by William Fobes’s Land in the Westerly part of Bridgwater, Also my Hundred Acres of Land which I Bought of Jabez Field, lying On the Easterly Side of Nathll. Reynalds’s Land, Also all the Interest which I have in Severall Purchase Rights of Undivided Land within the Eight mile (so called) in the Township of said Bridgwtr, And if there be any Other Interest which I have in any real Estate not before Disposed of, nither by this Will, I Give and Bequeath the Same unto my Son Ephraim  And I do hereby Oblige my sd. Son Ephraim to pay out the Severall legacies which I have hereafter in this Will given to my Daughters as To them Severally Expressed  (3,ly) I Give and Bequeath unto My Son in Law Jabez Field and also to my Daughter Mary his Wife to their heirs and Assigns forever my Tract of Land Lying in the Northerly part of sd. Bridgwater, The Northwesterly Bounds of which is Trurdy Path (so called) and Bounded westerly by Charles Snell’s Land and So Runing Easterly to the Extent of Land at the Northerly end of Morison’s Land bounded Westerly by Nathaniell Snell’s Land, Northerly by Charle’s Snells land, & Easterly by Robert Haward’s Land, Also I Give unto my said Daughter Mary my Molattoe Girl named Dina, Further I Give and Bequeath unto said Jabez and Mary my Quarter part of the Saw=Mill in the Northerly part of said Bridgwater called Haward’s Saw=Mill  (4,ly) I Give and Bequeath unto my Daughter Betty Sixty Six pounds Thirteen Shillings & four pence in Household Goods to be purchased for her at money price after my Decease as Soon as she shall Desire them Also thirty three pounds Six Shillings and Eight pence lawfull Money to be paid unto her in One Year after my Decease, Also Thirty three pounds Six Shillings and Eight pence more in two years after My Decease all to be performed by my Execr,  (5,ly) I Give and Bequeath Unto my Son in Law Jonathan Snell and to my Daughter his Wife To them their heirs and Assigns forever all my Interest in the Ceder Swamp Called Cutting=cove Ceder Swamp, or West Ceder Swamp, I Give Unto her Twenty Six pounds Thirteen Shillings and four pence In Quick Stock at Moneys price immediately after my Decease, and Twenty Six pounds Thirteen Shillings and four pence in Lawfull money within three Years after my Decease by my said Execr.  (6,ly)

        I Give and Bequeath unto my Son in Law Josiah Williams Junr, and to my Daughter Hannah his Wife To them their heirs and Assigns forever Ten Acres of Land which I Bought of Mr. Ephm. Keith lying On the Westerly Side of Jonathan Copland’s Wood Lott, Also Nine Acres of Land which I Laid Out near George Haward’s Land, Also I Give Unto her Thirteen pounds Six Shillings and Eight pence in Lawfull Money immediatly after my Decease Also Thirteen pounds Six Shillings and Eight pence in Quick Stock at Moneys price In One Year after my Decease also thirteen pounds Six Shillings And Eight pence in Quick Stock at moneys Price in Two Years after my Decease all to be performed by sd. Execr.  Further I Give and Bequeath unto my said Son Ephraim ally my Out Doore moveables, also my apparell, Cask, fire Lock two Swords, Bills, Bonds, Notes and Book Accounts also one fether Bed and I do hereby further Oblige him to Do all that which will be Incumbent on my Heirs after my Decease towards Maintaining Mereah an Old Negro Woman which was Father Snell’s

                And Further I Give and Bequeath unto my said Daughters namly, Mary Betty, Martha and Hannah, all my indoor moveables to be Equally Divided between them, Witness my hand And Seal the Day and Year aforementioned

Sign’d Sealed, published Pronounced                                                                             Ephraim Fobes                                 (seal)

And Declared by the sd. Ephraim

Fobes to be his last Will an Testamt.

        In the presents of us

Josiah Edson Junr.

Thomas Ames

Simeon Haward

 

Presented for probate on 3 Feb. 1755 by the Executor therein named, and proved by Josiah Edson jur. Esqr. and Thomas Ames, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Ephraim Fobes of Bridgwater, Yeoman, the Executor.

 

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 13, p. 381-384, from FHL microfilm #0551540.

 

 

Will of Ezra Fobes of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1809) *

In the name of God, Amen. I Ezra Fobes of Bridgwater in the County of Plymouth Commonwealth of Massachusetts yeoman possessing health of Body & a sound disposing mind (blessed be God for the same) yet sensible of the uncertainty of both do make & publish this my last Will & Testament in manner & form following (that is to say) first I give & bequeath unto my beloved wife Mary Fobes one bed & all the lining & one half the pew in the meeting house to be at her disposal also the improvement of one horse three Cows ten Sheep, all the Swine, the provision of all kinds, two thirds of the young Orchard & two thirds of the Garden, also the brass Clock together with all the indoor moveables also all the upland wood, one half of all the buildings & the Chaise, & I do further give & bequeath unto my Wife all my notes of hand to be at her disposal except such part of a note against my son Ezra as shall not be paid at the decease of my wife, but, if any part of said note should remain it is to be given up to said Ezra according to the true intent of said note.

 I do also give & bequeath unto my eldest daughter Abigail Aldrich twelve dollars & ninety cents & an equal share of all my Personal Estate this together with what I have hereto fore given her I consider her share of my Estate payable at my decease.  I do also give & bequeath unto my daughter Susannah Three Hundred Dollars to be paid to her at her Marriage but if she should continue unmarried after the decease of her Mother she shall have the improvement of so much of the easterly part of the house as shall be necessary for her comfort or convenience together with twenty five dollars a year during her life provided that is sufficient for her comfortable support other ways a sum equal to her necessaries expenses also an equal share of my Personal Property.  I do give & bequeath unto my daughter Mary Howard twelve dollars & ninety cents, also an equal share of the personal property this together with what I have heretofore given her I consider her full share.  I do also give & bequeath unto my Daughter Cordana Dunbar twelve dollars & ninety cents also an equal share of my Personal Property this together with what I have heretofore given her I consider her full share

I do also give & bequeath unto my four daughters Syrena, Celia, Armena & Eliza three hundred dollars each to be paid to each of them when they marry but if they or any of them should continue unmarried after they arrive at lawful age they shall receive their three hundred dollars each or at the decease of my wife & if any or either of the above named Syrena, Celia, Armena & Eliza should remain unmarried after the decease of their mother they shall have a priviledge in the easterly half of the house sufficient for their comfort & convenience this I consider with their equal share of my Personal Property which is to be divided at my decease except such part as is given to my wife which shall be divided after her decease their full share which said several sums & Legacies I will & order shall be paid to the said respective Legatees at the times & in the manner as above, I do further bequeath & devise to my son Ezra Fobes all the remainder of my Property not before particularly disposed of what name or nature soever whether Real, Personal or Mixed by ordering him to pay all my just debts all the legacies above named appointing him my sole Executor of this my last Will & Testament revoking all former Wills by me made in witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand & seal this twenty eighth day of March A.D. Eighteen hundred & nine~

Signed, Sealed published & declared by the above named Ezra Fobes to be his last Will & Testament in the presence of us who at his request & in his presence have hereunto subscribed our names as witnesses.

                Barney Leonard                                                                                                   Ezra Fobes                                         (seal)

                William Allen

                James Alger 3d.

 

Presented for probate on 7 Oct. 1823 by Ezra Fobes, the Executor therein named, and proved by James Alger 3d, one of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Ezra Fobes, the before named Executor.

 

Oliver Keith, yeoman, Benjamin Keith, yeoman, and Barney Leonard, Gentleman, all of Bridgwater, were appointed to appraise the Estate of Ezra Fobes, late of Bridgwater, yeoman, on 7 Oct. 1823. The Inventory was not dated, but totaled $3997.28, including his real estate valued at $2800. Ezra Fobes, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 4 Nov. 1823, and he was directed to sell at public auction or private sale $360 of the personal estate.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 57, pp. 334-337, 401, from FHL microfilm #0550909.

 

 

Will of Freelove Fobes of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1803) *

        In the Name of God amen. This Thirty first day of December in the Year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and three. I Freelove Fobes of Bridgwater in the County of Plymouth & Commonwealth of Massachusetts widow being advanced in age yet through divine goodness in a comfortable state of bodily Health & of sound & disposing Mind & Memory & calling to Mind the frailty of my Body & the Duty of setting my house in order before death, do now proceed to make & ordain this my last Will and Testament, and first of all I commend my immortal soul into the hands of that God who gave it, trusting in the Merits & Intercession of Jesus Christ my Saviour, for pardon, Grace & Glory & my Body I commit to the Earth to be decently buried at the discretion of my Executor hereafter named nothing doubting but that at the General Resurrection of all the Dead the same shall be raised again by the mighty power of almighty God, and as I humbly hope to a glorious Immortality – and with respect to the little remainder of my worldly Interest, I dispose of it in the following Manner viz –

        Imprimis I give and bequeath unto my six Sons viz Perez, Jason, Ezra, Joseph, John & Nathan one Dollar apiece to be paid to each of them by my Executor hereafter named within one year after my decease —

        2dly. I also give and bequeath unto my two Daughters viz. Abigail and Silva Fifty Dollars each, to be paid to them by my sd. Executor within six Months after my decease —

        3dly. I give and bequeath unto my Daughter Freelove Eighty three Dollars & sixty six Cents to be paid to her by my sd. Executor within one year after my decease. I also give her a Feather bed & the Furniture & appurtenances belonging thereunto, it being the same Bed, which she now occupies. I likewise give to her my cloak & that black Gown, which she bought for me, & my Great Looking Glass also one milch Cow & three Sheep & the sd. Cow & sheep to be kept for her Summer & Winter by my sd. Executor at his own Expence during the whole Term of the natural Life of my sd. Daughter Freelove or so long as she shall remain a single woman. I also give her the privilege to ride to Meeting on the Lord’s Days & at other times occasionally, while she shall continue in her single Capacity, to be provided & found for her by my sd. Executor at his Expence —

        4thly. I give and bequeath unto my three daughters viz Abigail Silva & Freelove all my wearing Apparel (saving the Gown before mentioned) & all my household Furniture & indoor moveables (not before named & otherways disposed of) to be equally divided among them —

        5thly. I also give to my Grandson Joseph P. Fobes one Dollar to be paid by my Executor —

        6thly I give & bequeath unto my Son Alpheus & to his Heirs & assigns fifteen Acres of Land lying in the south precinct at Bridgwater, it being the same Land, which my Hond. Father Josiah Edson late of Bridgwater Gentleman deceased, gave to me in his last Will and Testament, I also give him all the residue of my Estate both real & personal, that may be found, & not herein or otherways disposed of, after my just debts & charges & the Legacies aforesaid shall be paid —

        Lastly I hereby nominate & appoint my sd. Son Alpheus sole Executor of this my last Will and Testament and I order him to pay all my just debts & charges & the several Legacies before mentioned, out of what I have given to him, and I likewise order him to provide at his own Expence pasture & forage sufficient to keep one Cow Winter & Summer for my Daughter Freelove & to take care of & keep sd. Cow at a convenient place for her use during her natural Life, or so long as she shall remain a single woman, & also to let her have the privilege to ride to the House of publick worship on the Lord’s days & at other times as occasion may require during the aforesaid Time —  And I hereby revoke disannul & make void all other wills heretofore made by me, & do hereby ratify & confirm this to be my last Will & Testament in Witness Whereof I have hereunto set my hand & Seal the day & year aforesaid —

signed sealed published pronounced and

declared by the said Freelove Fobes to be

her last Will and Testament in presence of

                George Chipman                                                                                                 Freelove Fobes  her Mark  X             (seal)

                Jason Dyer

                Joseph Bassett 2d.

 

Presented for probate on 5 Aug. 1811 by Alpheus Fobes, the Executor therein named, and proved by George Chipman and Joseph Bassett 2d, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Alpheus Fobes, the before named Executor.

No inventory of her estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 43, p. 498-499, from FHL microfilm #0550902.

 

 

Will of John Fobes of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Massachusetts Bay (1783) *

In the name of God Amen — The ninth day of January in the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred & Eighty three, I John Fobes of Bridgwater in the County of Plymouth & Commonwealth of Massachusetts in New England yeoman, being advanced in age and under infirmity of body but through divide Goodness of sound and disposing mind and memory and Calling to mind the mortality of my body as well as the souls immortality and the Great duty of Sitting my house in order before death, do now proceed to make and ordain this my Last will and testament; and first of all I Commend my immortal Soul into the hands of that God who Gave it, trusting in the merits & Intercession of Jesus Christ my saviour for pardon Grace & Glory; my body I Commit unto the dust to be decently buried at the discretion of my Executors, nothing doubting but at the Great Resurrection the same shall be Raised again by the mighty power of God unto a Glorious immortality; and with Respect to my worldly Interest which by the blessing of Providence I have in my possession I dispose of it in the following manner vizt

Imprimis—I Give and bequeath unto my well beloved wife Martha the use & improvement of one half my dwelling house and the use & improvement of one third part of each of my Other buildings and one third part of my Cellar & well, with all the necessary accomodations for improving the premises, also the use of one third part of my Pew in the south meeting house upon the floor– I also Give unto her the use & improvement of one third part of my homestead Land & meadows - & one third part of the wood in my Cedar Swamp during the term that she shall Remain my widow– and I Give unto her to be Entirely at her dispose my old Chaise & one milk Cow, also one half of all my household Goods & furniture and my Great Bible

Item — I Give and bequeath unto my Son Edward & to his heirs & assigns forever all my Right in the Cedar Swamp Lying on the northerly & westerly Side of the Great pond in the South Precinct of Bridgwater – also two acres of Land which I Laid out Lying at the south End of my brother Josiah Fobes’s homestead, also one half my Live Stock and out door moveables & farming tools & utensills also my Gun which he now hath in possession, also one half my wearing apparell and one feather Bed with Suitable furniture – and the Reason I Give him no more at this time is because I have already Given him about two hundred pounds which with what I have now Given him is Considered as his full Share in my Estate

Item — I Give and bequeath unto my Grandson John Fobes Ten Spanish milled Dollars to be paid him by my Executor hereafter named within twelve months after my decease

Item — I Give and bequeath unto my daughter Martha all the Remainder of my Indoor moveables and houshold Furniture not herein before mentioned, and Otherwise disposed of – I also Give unto her the sum of twenty pounds Lawful Silver money to be paid unto her by my Executors hereafter named within two years after my decease

Item — I Give and bequeath unto my Son Libeus and his heirs & assigns forever all my homestead Lands & Buildings Except the use & improvement before mentioned and Given to my wife – I also Give him Six acres of Land Lying in Bridgwater, between the Lands of Benjamin Keith and Josiah Fobes, also all my Right in the Little Cedar Swamp, so called & my Pews in the South meeting House, and one half my wearing Apparell and also all my Other divided and undivided Lands and other Estate both Real and Personal not herein before mentioned & disposed of

Lastly — I Do hereby nominate and appoint my said wife & Son Libeus joint and Sole Executor upon this my Last will & testament, ordering my sd Son Libeus to pay and discharge all the before mentioned Legacies, and all my just Debts & funeral & other Charges out of what I have Given to him — In witness whereof I Do hereunto Sett my hand & Seal the day & year aforesaid

Signed Sealed, Published, pronounced

& declared by the sd. John Fobes to be                                                                            John Fobes                                        (seal)

his Last will & testament in presence

of

                Joseph Bassett

                Joseph Cowing

                James Leach

 

Presented for probate on 3 Feb. 1783 by Martha Fobes and Libeus Fobes, the Executors therein named, and proved by Joseph Bassett and James Leach, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Martha Fobes and Libeus Fobes, the before named Executors.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 28, p. 535-537, from FHL microfilm #0550715.

 

 

Will of Joshua Fobes of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Massachusetts Bay (1786) *

In the Name of God Amen—I Joshua Fobes of Bridgwater in the county of Plymouth in New England, Husbandman, calling to mind the mortality of my body, but being of sound mind and memory, blessed be God; Do make and ordain this my Last will and testament, in manner following, that is to say, first I Give my soul to God who gave it, and I bequeath my body to the earth from whence it was taken, to be decently buried at the discretion of my executors, nothing doubting but that I shall recieve it again at the resurrection and the temporal estate which God hath blessed me with, I dispose of in the manner following – vizt –

First – I will that all my Debts be paid

Item – To Esther my beloved wife, I Give the improvement of one third part of my Dwelling House, my corn House and Barn, and of all my Lands; and I Give her the whole of my moveable estate as her own property

Item – I Give the west half of my Dwelling House to my Son Joshua, and the east half of it to my Son Robert.~

Item – I Give six shillings a piece to my two daughters Ruth and Abigail and all the rest of my estate I Give to be equally divided between my sons Daniel, Joshua, Caleb, Robert and Solomon, and I do constitute Esther my Loving wife, and my son Daniel, my executors of this my Last will and testament; hereby revoking & disanulling all former wills and testaments by me made or signed – In witness whereof I have hereunto put my hand and seal the seventh day of August in the year of our Lord 1786, and in the eleventh year of the independence of the united States of America

The abovesaid Joshua Fobes declared,

signed & sealed this as his Last will &                                                                           Joshua Fobes                                    (seal)

testament in the presence of

        Elijah Richmond

        Joshua Richmond

        Isaac Backus

 

                                                                                                                Bridgwater Novr 3. 1787. ~

Sir

                as I am not well able to come down to your court, I desire that my Son Daniel Fobes may be authorised to act as executor of my Late husband’s will without me – your humble servant

                                                                                                                                                                                her

                                                                                                                                                                   Esther  X  Fobes

To the Honble Judge of Probate for Ply-                                                                                                         mark

mouth county – Joseph Cushing esqr. –

 

Presented for probate on 5 Nov. 1787 by Daniel Fobes, one of the Executors therein named, and proved by Elijah Richmond and Isaac Backus, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted unto Daniel Fobes, the before named Executor, (Esther Fobes the other Executor in said will named, having refused the said trust.)

 

Thomas Hooper Gentm., Amos Howard yeoman, and William Fobes yeoman, all of Bridgwater, were appointed to appraise the estate of Joshua Fobes, late of Bridgwater Husbandman, on 5 Nov. 1787. The Inventory of the Estate of Joshua Fobes, late of Bridgwater, was appraised on 23 Nov. 1787, and totaled £542.16.10, including his homestead farm valued at £442. Danl. Fobes, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 6 Oct. 1788.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 30, pp. 254-255, 451-452, from FHL microfilm #0550716.

 

 

Will of Josiah Fobes of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1793) *

        In the name of God Amen—on the Sixth day of March, in the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred & ninety three. I Josiah Fobes of Bridgwater in the county of Plymouth & Comonwealth of Massachusetts in New England Gentleman, being advanced in age, yet through divine goodness, in a good state of bodily health & of a sound & disposing mind & memory, and calling to mind the frailty of human nature and the mortality of my own body, as well as the soul’s immortality and the duty & expediency of setting my house in order before death, do now proceed to make & ordain this my last will & testament, and first of all I commend my immortal soul into the hands of that God who gave it, humbly trusting in his mercy thro’ the merits of Jesus Christ my saviour for pardon, grace & glory and my body I commit to the earth to be decently buried at the discretion of my Executor, nothing doubting but that at the general resurrection of all the dead the same shall be raised again, by the mighty power of almighty God, as I humbly hope & trust to a glorious immortality, and with respect to my worldly interest I dispose of it in the following manner vizt

        Imprimis—I Give & bequeath unto my well beloved wife Freelove the easterly front room & bed room adjoining thereunto in my dwelling house, also the use and privilege of one half part of the kitchen in sd house & half the Cellar under the same and the privilege of water at the well & the use & improvement of one third part of my barn & corn house & a seat in my Pew in the south meeting house, together with the use & improvement of the one third part of all my Lands during the whole term of her natural life. I also give unto her my said wife to be entirely at her dispose two milks cows & my horse, also all my houshold furniture & indoor moveables, saving & excepting such particular articles as are herein afterwards mentioned & otherways disposed of, I also give her Five sheep & one swine together with all my Corn, Grain, meat & Sauce, hay & Forage, that may be found on hand at my decease

        Item—I Give & bequeath unto my four Grand children vizt Joseph Pryer, Josiah, Sarah & Silence ten shillings a piece in Lawful silver money, to be paid to each of them by my Executor hereafter named, within twelve months after my decease

        Item—I Give & bequeath unto my Son Perez Forty shillings of Lawful silver money, to be paid to him by my said Executor, within two years after my decease this with the education I have given him is considered as his full share in my Estate

        Item—I Give & bequeath unto my Son Jason & his heirs & assigns about two acres of land being part of my homestead lying on the south side of the road and is opposite the front of his dwelling house, bounded, beginning at the north east corner of my orchard by the high way, From thence southerly by sd orchard Fence as it now stands to the south east corner of sd orchard, thence easterly in a parralel line with the stone wall Fence, on the southerly side of said orchard ‘till it comes to a lot or parcell of Land called the Fifteen acres, thence northerly in the line of sd Fifteen acres Lot to the high way, thence westerly by sd high way to the first bounds. I also give him the privilege of a watering place containing about one quarter of an acre of Land Situate & being at the north west corner of his the said Jason’s homestead, and which he now improves, and is bounded on either side by the Fence as it now stands, and I hereby order him the said Jason to my two Daughters vizt Abigail & Sylva, the sums of Forty shillings a piece, to be paid to each of them in Lawful silver money, within twelve months after my decease

        Item—I Give & bequeath unto my Son Ezra & his heirs & assigns, one Lot of Cedar Swamp in the old or great cedar swamp in sd Bridgwater, it being in common & undivided with the heirs of Mr Joshua Fobes Late of sd Bridgwater, deceased, this with what I have already done for him, by giving him his trade, is considered as his full share of my Estate

        Item—I Give & bequeath unto my Son Joseph & his heirs & assigns, part of the Second Lot of Cedar Swamp in the sixth share in the old or great cedar swamp in sd Bridgewater (so called) it being all my right in sd lot. Also one quarter part of a purchase right in the undivided Land in sd Bridgwater. I also give him the said Joseph twenty pounds value in neat cattle, to be paid & delivered to him by my sd Executor within two years after my decease

        Item—I Give & bequeath unto my Son John Twenty Five pounds value in neat cattle to be paid & delivered to him by my sd Executor, within two years after my decease

        Item—I Give & bequeath unto my Son Nathan Thirty pounds of Lawful Silver money, to be paid to him within twelve months after my decease by my said Executor

        Item—I Give & bequeath unto my two Daughters Abigail & Sylva Forty shillings a piece, to be paid to each of them I Lawful silver money by my Son Jason within one year after my decease

        Item—I Give and bequeath unto my Daughter Freelove, the use of my East chamber, in the Front of my dwelling house & the privilege of passing to and from the same & to be kept in good repair by my Executor during the term that she shall continue to live single. I also give her to be entirely at her dispose the Furniture in sd chamber, consisting of one case of Drawers, one looking glass, one Feather Bed with its appurtenances & furniture, also one table, candle stool & half doz chair also one milks Cow & twenty Five pounds of Lawful silver money to be paid to her within one year after my decease, by my sd Executor. And I also give her the privilege of cutting Fire wood For her own use only during the term she shall live single, and to have her Cow kept in the summer seasons annually by sd Executor, during the sd term of her single life. Also a Seat in my Pew in the abovesaid South meeing house, during sd term

        Item—I Give and bequeath unto my Son Alpheus & his heirs & assigns all the residue of my homestead Lands & buildings, out Lands, Cedar Swamps & meadows, together with all the remainder of my real & personal estate not herein before mentioned & otherways disposed of, after my just debts & charges & the legacies that I have ordered to be paid by my Executor are discharged (saving & excepting my wearing apparell, which it is my will shall be equally divided among all my Sons

Lastly—I do hereby nominate & appoint my Son Alpheus Sole Executor of this my Last will & testament, ordering him to pay & discharge all my sd debts and the legacies before mentioned, saving the legacies which I have ordered my son Jason to pay. And I do hereby revoke, disannul & make utterly void, all other wills, heretofore made by me, hereby ratifying & confirming this to be my Last will & testament. In Witness, whereof, I have hereunto, Set my hand & seal the day & year aforesaid

Signed, Sealed, Published, Pronounced

& declared by ye sd Josiah Fobes, to be his                                                                     Josiah Fobes                                     (seal)

Last will & testament in presence of

                Joseph Bassett

                Hartwell Keith

                James Leach

 

Presented for probate on 6 Oct. 1794 by Alpheus Fobes, the Executor therein named, and proved by Joseph Bassett & James Leach, two of the witnesses.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 35, p. 151-153, from FHL microfilm #0550718.

 

 

Will of Martha Fobes of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1793) *

        In the name of God Amen—On the seventeenth day of June, in the year of our Lord Seventeen hundred & ninety three, I Martha Fobes of Bridgwater in the county of Plymouth & Commonwealth of Massachusetts in New England widow, being advanced in age, yet through divine goodness in a comfortable state of bodily health & of a sound & disposing mind & memory & well knowing that it is appointed For all living once to die, & considering that it is expedient to Set my house in order before death, do therefore now proceed to make & ordain this my last will & testament, and first of all, I commend my immortal soul into the hands of that God who gave it, with a humble hope and trust in the merits & intercession of Jesus Christ my saviour For pardon grace & glory, and my body I commit to the dust, to be decently buryed at the discretion of my Executor hereafter named, in the firm belief that at the general resurrection of all the dead, the same shall be raised again by the mighty power of almighty God, and as I hope to a glorious immortality, and with respect to the little remains of my Estate and worldly interest, I dispose of it as follows—viz~

        Item—I Give & bequeath unto my Son Edward one Spanish mill’d Dollar to be paid to him by my Executor hereafter named within twelve months after my decease

        Item—I Give & bequeath unto my Son Libeus, my large bible & all my other books, also one Spanish mill’d Dollar to be paid to him by my sd Executor within twelve months after my decease, and the sd books to be delivered within one month after my decease

        Item—I Give & bequeath unto my two grand children viz~. Libeus Fobes junr & Mehitabel Fobes, two Spanish milled Dollars a piece to be paid to each of them by my said Executor within Six months after my decease

        Item—I Give & bequeath unto my Daughter Martha my two Beds & the furniture & my milks cow & all my wearing apparell, together with all the residue of my Estate not herein before mentioned & otherways disposed of after my just debts & charges and the Legacies before mentioned are paid

        Lastly—I do hereby nominate & appoint my son in law Mr Eliab Hayward of said Bridgwater yeoman, Sole Executor upon this my Last will & testament, ordering him to pay all my just debts & charges & the Legacies aforesaid, and I do hereby revoke disannul & make utterly void all other wills heretofore made by me hereby Ratifying & confirming this to be my Last will & testament—In witness whereof I have hereunto Set my hand & Seal the day and year aforesaid

Signed, Sealed, Published, Pronounced &

declared by the said Martha Fobes, to be                                                                        Martha Fobes                                   (seal)

her Last will & testament in presence of

        Amos Hayward

        Walter Hayward

        James Leach

 

Presented for probate on 4 May 1795 by Eliab Hayward, the Executor therein named, and proved by Walter Hayward & James Leach, two of the witnesses.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 35, p. 246-247, from FHL microfilm #0550718.

 

 

Will of Timothy Fobes of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1802) *

In the Name of God Amen.—I, Timothy Fobes of Bridgwater in ye County of Plymouth, in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, yeoman, on this nineteenth day of June in ye year of our Lord, one thousand, eight hundred & two, make and publish this my last will & testament in manner and form following, that is to say, in the first place, I commend my soul to almighty God, humbly trusting in his mercy thro’ Jesus Christ for pardon, grace, and a glorious and happy immortality, my body to be decently buried at the discretion of my Executor here after named.~

        I Give, Devise & bequeath to my son William Fobes my meadow lot in flaggy meadow, so called, containing five acres, also one undivided half part of all my homestead farm & buildings, extending from the town river, so called, to the land of Colo Edward Howard, at beach neck, so called containing about sixty acres, also, one undivided half part of all my lands lying in the south precinct in sd Bridgwater at a place called the two mild field, on both sides of ye highway, leading from mile brook bridge to Taunton, and containing about forty four acres, also, one undivided half part of my lot in the old cedar swamp, and one half part of my two rights in the west swamp, so called, all lying in Bridgwater aforesaid, to have & to hold, all the above devised lands & tennements, with all the privileges & appurtenances thereunto belonging, to him ye sd William Fobes his heirs & assigns forever. –

        I Give & bequeath to my son Avery Fobes, the sum of Six Hundred & fifty Dollars, forever, to be paid by my Executor out of the Notes of hand which I hold against ye sd Avery, and such other personal estate, as I shall hereinafter bequeath to my sd Executor, I also give & bequeath to the said Avery Fobes one cow, my sword & silver spurs – also one feather bed & furniture, the said bed to be delivered to him at the decease of my wife, she to have the improvement of it during her state of widowhood –

        I Give, Devise & bequeath to my youngest son Timothy Fobes, the other undivided half part of all ye above described lands & tenements, (excepting the flaggy meadow lot aforesaid) with the privileges & appurtenances thereunto belonging, to have & to hold to him the said Timothy & his heirs forever, provided however, if the said Timothy shall die without heirs, lawfully begotten of his body, then my will is, that all the above estate devised to my son Timothy as aforesaid shall go to my son William, upon his paying to my son Avery the sum of Three Hundred & thirty three Dollars & thirty three cents

        I Give and bequeath to my son William Fobes, my Scrutoine forever.-

        I Give & bequeath to my son Timothy Fobes my great bible, my Desk, my silver shoe tree & Stock buckles forever, and my gun forever. .

        I Give and bequeath to my dearly beloved wife Mary Fobes all the rest & residue of my houshold furniture (not other wise in this my last will & testament disposed of) to have & to hold forever, also, all my wearing apparell, to dispose of as she thinks best. I also, give & bequeath to my sd wife, the use, occupation & improvement of the one half part of all my real estate above described, as given to my two sons William & Timothy, and also, the use, occupation & improvement of the one half part of all my live stock & farming utensills, so long as she remains my widow, in full satisfaction of her right of dower or thirds in my estate –

        I Give and bequeath to my two sons, namely William & Timothy, all my live stock, out door moveables & farming utensills / excepting one cow to my son Avery as aforesaid / to be equally divided, between them, the said William & Timothy, to hold forever – and for the full performance of this my last will & testament in every part & thing, I do hereby constitute & appoint my son William Fobes sole Executor thereof, whom I order to pay all my just debts, funeral charges & legacies herein given; and, I do give, devise & bequeath to the said William Fobes, all the rest & residue of my estate, of what name or nature, soever, either real, personal or mixed, to have and to hold, to him the said William his heirs & assigns forever, excepting the devises, legacies & bequests aforesaid – witness my hand & seal –

Signed, Sealed, Published, Pro-

nounced & declared by ye sd.                                                                                             Timothy Fobes                                  (seal)

Timothy Fobes the testator,

as & for his last will & testamt.,

in presence of us the subscribing

witnesses –

                Wm. Baylies

                Daniel Howard ye 4th

                Daniel Howard –

 

Presented for probate on 15 Nov. 1803 by William Fobes, the Executor therein named, and proved by William Baylies & Daniel Howard, two of the witnesses. Danl. Howard Esqr. & James Perkins, yeoman, were the sureties on the bond of William Fobes, yeoman.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 38, p. 454-456, from FHL microfilm #0550720.

 

 

Will of William Fobes of Bridgewater, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1764) *

                        In the Name of God Amen,

The 23d. day of June A.D. 1764. I William Fobes of Bridgwater in the County of Plymouth in New: England Yeoman being sick & weak of body but of perfect mind & memory thanks be given to God. therefore calling to mind the mortality of my body & knowing that it is appointed for all men once to die do make & ordain this my last will & Testament that is to say Principally & first of all I give & recommend my Soul into the hands of God that gave it & my body I recommend to the Earth to be decently buried at the discretion of my Executor hereafter named nothing doubting but at the General Resurrection I shall receive the same again by the Mighty Power of God & as touchg. such worldly Estate wherewith it hath pleased God to bless me in this life I give demise & dispose of the same in the following manner & form.

Imprs. I give & bequeath to Thankfull my dearly beloved wife after the Payment of my Just debts & funeral charges one third part of all my Personal Estate & the improvement of all my household Furniture during her natural life.

Item. I give & bequeath to my wellbeloved Daughter Lusanna Williams one half of my lot of land that lies adjoing. to Jona. Burrs land in Bridgwater & also one half of all my right in the common & undivided Lands in Bridgwr to her her heirs & assigns forever & also one half of my houshold Furniture (last line cut off).

Item. I give & bequeath to my well beloved Daughter Mercy Fobes one half of my lot of land that lies adjoing. to Jona. Burrs land in Bridgwater & one half of my land in the common & undivided lands in Bridgwater I give to her her heirs & assigns forever & also one half of all my household Furniture after her Mothers decease (that is one half that was not given to my wife only for Life.

Item. I give & bequeath to my well beloved son Abner Fobes five shillings to be pd by Exr.

Item I give & bequeath to my well beloved son William Fobes five shillgs to be pd. by Exr.

Item. I give & bequeath to my well beloved Son Timothy Fobes whom I likewise constitute & appoint my sole Executor of this my last will & Testament all my Estate both real & Personal that remains undisposd. of to him his heirs & assigns forever & I do hereby utterly disallow revoke & disanul all & every other former Legacies, wills & bequests & Executors by me in any way before named, willed, & bequeathed ratifying & confirming this & no other to be my last will & Testament. In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand & Seal the day & Year above written.

Signed, Sealed, published, pronounced & declared by the sd.

William Fobes as his last will & Testament in Presence of                      William Fobes              (seal)

Ephraim Fobes, Eliab Fobes, & Edward Haward Junr.

 

Presented for probate on 8 Oct. 1764 by Timothy Fobes, the Executor therein named, and proved by Eliab Fobes and Edward Haward Junr., two of the witnesses.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 19, p. 112-113, from FHL microfilm #0550711.

 

 

Will of William Fobes of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1793) *

In the name of God Amen. This Sixteenth day of January A Domini 1793 I William Fobes of Bridgwater in the county of Plymouth, yeoman, being of a sound, disposing mind & memory, & calling to mind that it is appointed to all men once to die, do proceed to make & ordain this my last will & testament, In the first place, I recommend my soul into the hands of God who gave it, hoping thro’ the merits of Christ Jesus to obtain ye pardon of all my sins & to inherit eternal life, and my body I commit to ye earth to be decently buried at ye discretion of my Executor hereafter named, believing that at ye resurrection I shall recieve the same again by the power of God almighty, & as touching my worldly Estate, I Give & dispose of it in the following manner vizt. my will is that all my just debts be paid in convenient time after my decease, by my Executor, out of my personal Estate

Item. I Give & bequeath to my beloved wife Hannah Fobes all my Indoor moveables & my wearing apparell, to be disposed of as she shall think proper, the improvement of two Cows, my horse & Six sheep, Also the improvement of all my real estate, so long as she shall remain my widow, and also the one half of my stock of provisions

Item. I Give & bequeath to my Sister Mercy Howard wife of John Howard, Six pounds lawful money

Item. I Give & bequeath to my nephew Avery Fobes, his heirs & assigns forever, all my Personal Estate not before disposed of, & after the decease of my wife, all my Real Estate, & in case my wife should marry, my will is, that my said nephew should come into the improve of the same in consequence of such intermarriage

Finally, I constitute & appoint my Nephew Avery Fobes sole Executor of this my last will & testament. In witness whereof, I have hereunto Set my hand & Seal, the day & year abovesaid

Signed, Sealed, delivered, published

pronounced & declared by the sd Wil-                                                                             William Fobes                   (seal)

liam Fobes to be his last will & tes-

tament in presence of

                Jona Crane

                Gaius Conant

                Susanna Crane

 

Presented for probate on 3 July 1797 by Avery Fobes, the Executor therein named, and proved by Jonathan Crane and Susanna Crane, two of the witnesses. Jonathan Crane Esqr. & Daniel Fobes were sureties on the bond of Avery Fobes as Executor.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 36, p. 188-189, from FHL microfilm #0550719.

 

 

Will of Elisha Foord of Marshfield, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1758) *

In the Name of God Amen I Elisha Foord of Marshfield being weak & under Indisposition of Body But of Perfect Understanding and memory Praized be God Therefore Calling unto to Mind the Mortality of my Body & knowing that it is appointed for all men once to die do make this my last will & Testament that is to say Principally and first of all I give & recomend my Soul into the Hands of God that gave it & my Body to the Earth to be Buried in Decent Christian Burial By my Executors nothing doubting but at the General Resurrection I Shall receive the same again by the Mighty power of God And as touching the worldly Estate wherewith it hath pleased God to bless me with I Give Demise & dispose of the same in the manner and form following. ~

Imprimis. I Give and Bequeath To Elizabeth Foord my beloved wife the use and improvement of all my house hold Goods & the One half of my dwelling house so long as She remains my widdow.

Item. I Give to my son Lemuel Foord all my wearing Apparell And my Yonguest yoke of Oxen Over & above what I have already Given him by Deed—

Item I Give to my two sons Elisha Foord & Isaac Foord all my Real Estate not before disposed of to be Equally divided between them they being Obliged to allow their Mother an Honourable Maintenance Out of said Estate dureing her remaining my Widdow—

Item I Give to my three daughters that are Married viz Patience Sprague Bethiah Turner & Zerviah Howland all my household Goods after their mother to be Equally divided among them. And I give to my said two sons viz Elisha & Isaac the three quarters of a Sloop which I do now Own & all my horn Cattle and my home and all my Buildings & fences & all my husbandrey tools —

Item I Give to my two daughters that are unmarried viz Priscilla Foord & Tabitha Foord thirteen pounds Six Shillings & Eight pence lawfull money a peice to be paid by my two sons viz Elisha & Isaac whom I do Constitute & apoint to be my Executors to this my last will & Testament And I do hereby utterly revoke all other & former wills hereby ratyfieing & Confirming this & no Other to be My last will Testament in Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and Seal this fourth day of October in the Year of our Lord One thousand Seven hundred & fifty Eight 1758.     Signed Sealed & Declared by the said Foord to be his last will In presence of

John Little                                                                                                                             Elisha Foord                     (seal)

Benja. White

Thomas Foster

 

Presented for probate on 11 Dec. 1758 by the Execrs, and proved by Benja. White and Thomas Foster, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Elisha Foord and Isaac Foord, the Executors, on 11 Dec. 1758.

 

The Inventory of the estate of Mr. Elisha Ford, late of Marshfield, was appraised on 11 Jan. 1759 by Nehemiah Thomas, Nathl. Little, and Benjamin White, and totaled £622.12.1, including his real estate valued at £314.13.4, and ¾ of a Sloop valued at £160. Elisha Foord and Isaac Ford, the Executors, gave their oath to the inventory on 31 Mar. 1759.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 15, pp. 84-85, 276, from FHL microfilm #0551543.

 

 

Will of Peleg Foord of Marshfield, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1762) *

In the Name of God, Amen.

The seventeenth day of November A.D. 1762. I Peleg Foord of Marshfield in the county of Plymouth in New-England gentleman, being aged & infirm but of sound mind & memory do make this my Last will and Testament. ~~

First, I comend my soul to God that gave it, and my body to the earth, to a decent burial at the discretion of my executor hereafter- named; and touching such worldly goods as God hath given me, devise & dispose of in the manner following, that is to say. ~~

I give to my son Nathaniel Foord all my real estate to him and his heirs & assigns forever, & all my wearing apparel, & my sword & gold sleve buttons, & two silver spoons, & my pew in the meeting house (with this reserve, that my daughters Sarah White Lusannah Kent, & Abigail Smith shall have Liberty to sit in the said pew if they see cause). and I also give to my said son two cows & a pair of three &’vantage red steers, & my whale-boat with her appurtenances, and all my farming tools & utensils.—

I give to my daughter Sarah White, thirteen pounds, six shillings & eight pence, to be paid to her by my executor hereafter-named in two years after my decease.~

I give to my daughter Lusañah Kent, thirteen pounds, six shillgs. & eight pence, to be paid to her by my executor hereafter namd. in two years after my decease, & one silver spoon at my decease.

I give to my daughter Abigail Smith, thirteen pounds, six shillgs. & eight pence, to be paid to her by my executor Hereafternamd. in two years after my decease, & one silver spoon at my decease.

Also I give to my son Nathaniel Foord, and to my daughters Sarah White, Lusañah Kent, & Abigail Smith, all the remainder of my personal estate not heretofore disposed off. (after my just debts, funeral charges, and the settlement of my estate is paid out of them) to be equally divided between them.

Lastly I appoint my son Nathaniel Foord sole executor of this my Last will & to pay my funeral charges, just debts, & the settlement of my estate out of my personal estate as abovesaid.  In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand & seal the day and year above written,

Signed sealed, published, & declared by the                                                  Peleg Foord                      (seal)

said Peleg Foord to be his Last will & testamt.

in the presence of.—

Paul White

Joseph White

Elizabeth White

 

Whereas in my Last will and testament dated the . . . . .

I gave to my daughter Abigail Smith . . . . .

Since which she is deceased, and cannot take the same.— Therefore my mind and will now is, That the same shall be equally divided among the children which she Left at her decease, and paid to them by my executor, and that this be taken as part and parcel of my said will. . ~

In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal January 23d. AD. 1768. —

Signed and published                                                                                                                     his

                In presence of                                                                                                      Peleg   X   Foord  (seal)

Abijah White                                                                                                                                 mark

Nathan Sprague

Ignatius Sherman

 

Presented for probate on 14 Jan. 1769 by Nathaniel Foord, the Executor, the Will proved by Paul White, one of the witnesses, Elizabeth White and Joseph White being since deceased, and the Codicil proved by Abijah White esqr. and Ignatius Sherman, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Nathaniel Foord, the Executor on the same day.

 

The apprizement of the estate of Peleg Foord, late of Marshfield, was taken by Abijah White, Paul White, and Ignatius Sherman on 17 Jan. 1769, and totaled £734.11.8. The Executor gave his oath to the inventory on 21 Jan. 1769.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 20, p. 181-182, from FHL microfilm #0550711.

 

 

Will of Andrew Ford of Abington, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1749) *

In the Name of God amen I Andrew Ford of Abington In the County of Plimouth & province of the Massachusets Bay In New-England yeoman Being of perfect mind and memory – Blessed be god But Calling to mind the morality of my Body and Knowing that It is appointed for all men once to Dey Do on this 7enth Day of June Anno Domini one thousand Seven hundred fourty and nine and In the Twenty Second year of ye reign of our Soveraien Lorde the Second King of greate Brittaine &c. Do make and ordain this my Last Will and Tstament, that is to Say principly & first of all I give and recomend my Soule Into ye hands of God that gave It and my Body I recomend to ye. Dust to be Deceantly bureid according to the Discretion of my Executors here after named and as Touching Such worldly Estate as It hath pleased God to Bless me with In this Life I give and Dispose of It In manner & form following viz –

Imps. I do Give unto my Beloved wife Allice Ford all my houshould Stuffe If She Shall See Cause Either to Diesire or Require It, But In Case She Shall not See Cause So to Do Even to the whole of It I Desire then yt. She would Bestow wt. thereof She Shall not Want upon my two Sons viz on my Son Jacob & Andrew Ford but not obliging her thereto, But only manifesting my Desire that She Should So Do If She Should See Cause To Do It also I give her the Liberty & priveledge of Living In ye. Best Roome of Either of my houses that She Shall Chuse or with Either of my Sons, viz, Jacob & Andrew Ford & also ye. priveledge of watter att either of ye. Wells belonging to Sd. houses and I Do hereby oblige my sd. two Sons To find & Kepe for my sd. Wife a good new milck Cow both winter & Sumer During her Life & also to give her Six bushels of Inden Corne & one Bushell of Rye yearly Dureing her Life & to provide her wt. fier wood She Shall want Cut fit for her fier Brought home to her Door During her Life and I do further oblige my sd. Two Sons & their heirs to pay unto my Sd. Wife an annuity of Ten pounds Bills of Credite of ye. old Tenor Dureing her Life and I do further oblige my Sd. Two Sons to provide & Deliver unto my Sd. Wife one hundred pounds of good porke one hundred pounds of good Beefe yearly During her life

Item 2. I Do give unto my Sd. Son Jacob Ford to him his hairs & assignes for Ever the Notherly half of my farme In Abington together with all ye. Buildings that are upon It Excepting my Intrest In that Saw mill that Stands upon Sd half up at Bever Brook wich is one Eighth parte of Sd. mill with ye. priviledges thereof

Item 3. I Do Give unto my Sd. Son andrew Ford to him his heirs & assigns for ever the South half of my Farme in Abington with all ye. Buildings that are upon It as Dwalling house Barne the like and also my Intrest in that Saw Mill that Stands on ye. Northerly parte of my farme together with the priviledggs thereof to him his heirs and assigns for Ever~~

Item 4. I do give unto ye. Children of my Daughter marey Richards five Shillings apiece to Each of them by my sd. two Sons viz unto Joseph Danll. mary & Susanna Richards –

Item 5. I Do give unto my Daughter Hester porter Thirty ounces of Sillver & also to Each of her Children now Surviving viz unto Jacob Jn. Noah Adam Porter & unto Hester mary abigail & Hannah Porter to Each of them Ten ounces of Silver to Be paid unto my Sd. GrandSons att Such Time as they Shall arrive at ye. age of twenty & one years By my Sd. Two Sons, viz, Jacob & andrew or their Their Heirs and also to my Said Grandaughter att the age of Eighteen years to Each of them Shall become due and I Would have It Known that the Reason that I Don’t give the whole unto my Sd. Daughter Hester Porter Is Because I Would Not have It to Come in to My Son In Law Jacob Porters hands that he might not with Itt fight again st ministers of ye. Gospell –

Item 6 I Do Give unto my two grand Children viz Abijah & Marcy Reed the Children of my Daughter mary Reed Decd. To Each of them fifty ounces of Silver to be paid unto ym. By my Said Two Sons or their Heirs to the Sd. Abijah att ye. age of Twenty and one years & to sd. Marcy att ye. age of Eighteen years and if Either of them Should Dey Before he or She Shall arrive to Sd. age Ye. other Surviveing Shall have the whole that Both of them Should have I oblige my sd. Sons & their heirs to pay ye. full of Sd. Legacies to Each Legatee above named But In Case Sillver Should not be to be gotten then they Shall pay thereto in bills of Credit & I do give further unto my sd. Two sons all my Out Door moveables Equel event & Do hereby Constitute my Sd. Two Sons, viz, Jacob & Andrew to be the Executors of this my Last Will & Testament ordering them to Recive in all my Debts & also to Discharge all my Law full debts as also my funeral & I do hereby revoke & make voide all other former will, made by me In Witnes whereof I have & Do hereunto Sett my hand & Seal on ye. Day & year above Said –

Signed Sealed published prounounced & Declared

By the Said Andrew Ford as his Last will and Testament in ye

presents of us ye. Subscribers                                                                                            Andrew Ford                     (seal)

Samuel Brown

Ebenezer Bate junr.

Mary Brown

 

Presented for probate on 4 June 1750 by ye. Execr. therein named, and proved by Ebenezer Bate and Mary Brown, Mr. Samul. Brown being since decd. Letters of Administration were granted to Jacob and Andrew, Sons of the Said Deceased and Executors, on 4 June 1750.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 12, p. 146-149, from FHL microfilm #0551539.

 

 

Will of John Foster of Plymouth, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1739/40) *

I John Foster of Plymouth in the County of Plymouth in New England being in the Seventy fourth year of my Age and at this time in usual health and of a Disposeing Mind & Memory (Blessed be God for it) Do make and Ordain this my last Will and Testament in manner following ~ That is to Say I Give and bequeath my Soul to God who gave it & Redeemed it with the most precious blood of his son Jesus C, I Give my body to the Earth to be buried in hope of a Glorious Resurrection to Eternal Life through my Dear Lord & Saviour Jesus Christ—

As for my Outward Estate which God in his good providence has Given me my mind & will is that it be disposed of as followeth.

Imprimis  I Give and Bequeath to my beloved wife Hannah Foster She Resigning her Right of Dower the Sole use and improvement of my Home State dureing her naturall life or widow Hood (and no longer) Excepting the Blacksmiths shop & warehouse & wharfe which is to be Set off beginning at ye Path Ten feet Westward from the Shop ~ I allso give unto my sd. wife my best bed & furniture, my negro woman and One quarter part of my Houshold Goods with Liberty & choosing her share. —

Item – I Give and bequeath to my youngest son Seth Foster and to my Three Daughters viz Hannah Sarah & Mercy the three Remaining parts of my household Goods & all my moveable & Personall Estate (Excepting what I Shall hereafter dispose off) To be divided equally among them.

Item – I Give and bequeath To my Eldest son Samuel Foster his Heirs and assigns forever One half of the Home stall Houses & land (Excepting the Shop, wharf and warehouse and ye land below the Way ten feed Westward of the Shop as Above) which he shall have after my wifes death or second marriage. —

Item – I Give and bequeath to my second son Thomas Foster his Heirs & Assigns forever the One half of my meadow land at ye. High Pines within the bounds of Duxborough, and allso all my Wearing Apparell and allso my Pine Lott of land at Billington Sea on ye Westerly side.

Item. I Give and bequeath to my Third son Nathll Foster his Heirs and assigns forever my Blacksmiths shop with the Utensils thereunto belonging and the Warehouse & wharf & ye land to be Sett off ten feet Westward of the Shop as above. Allso ye. other Half of the Homestall Houses & Land which he shall have after my wifes death or second Marriage. Also my Field & Pasture Lying in Plymo. Above L;ttletown with the Wood Lott at the head of it: Allso my Sixty Acres of Land at Gunnen Exchange pond 40 Acres on ye South & 20 Acres on ye North side of sd. Pond Allso my lott of land on ye beach with ye Blacksmiths shop that stands on it with ye Utensils, Allso One half of my Meadow land at High Pines within Nanne and whatsoever is due to me by Book and I Order him to pay all my debts & funerall Charges and to provide for & Support his mother Comfortably & Honourably as long as she Continues my Widdow, or to give her yearly a Certain sum of money for her support as my son Samuel and he Shall Agree. I allso Order him to pay to my Grandson Eliphalet Bradford Ten pounds or let him have a good Cow and allso take Care that sd. Eliphalet be learned the Smiths Trade or some other and when his time is up Give him two Suits of Apparill one proper for the Lord, and the other for working days.

Furthermore my Cedar Swamp at South Meadows my sons Thomas & Nathll. Shall have One half to Thomas his Heirs & Assigns and the Other half To Natha. His Heirs and Assigns ~

Finally I Nominate and Appoint my two sons Samuel & Nathaniel To be Joynt Executors Of this my last will & Testament. In Witness hereof I have Hereunto Set my hand & Seal this Ninth day of January Anno Dom. 1739/40                                             

Signed Seald & Declared                                                                                                   memorandm. The words (my Negro Girl

this to be my last will                                                                                                          Naune & ) were Enterlined before

& Testement in Presence of                                                                                              Signing &c

Isaac Lothrop Junr                                                                                                               John Foster —                  (seal)

Thomas Wetherell

Rebecca Wetherell

 

Probated on 26 Jan. 1741, and proved by Isaac Lothrop Junr., Thomas Wetherell, and Rebecca Wetherell, the witnesses. Letters of Administration granted to Samuel Foster of Kingston, and Nathaniel Foster of Plymouth, both in ye County of Plymouth Blacksmiths, Joynt Executors, on 26 Jan. 1741.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 8, p. 466-468, from FHL microfilm #0551531.

 

 

Will of Mary Foster of Plymouth, Plymouth County, Massachusetts Bay (1780) *

I Mary Foster of Plymouth in the county of Plymouth widow Relict of Thomas Foster Esqr. deceased being in health and of sound & disposing mind & memory, Do make & ordain this to be my Last will & testament—First of all I Recommend my Soul to God, trusting in the merits of Christ for Eternal Life –

– and as to my worldly Estate I dispose of it in manner Following ~

Imprimis – having already done something for my two Eldest daughters upon their marriage, I therefore now Give & bequeath twelve Shillings in Silver money or in value equivalent, to be equally divided between them; and to my daughter Salome Diman Thirty Shillings of Like money or value

Item – I Give to my daughters Mary & Eunice all my wearing apparell

Item – I Give to my four Children, Mary, Seth, Philemon & Eunice in equal parts all the Remainder of my Estate both Real & Personal to be to them their Heirs & assigns forever; But if any of them should not survive me, the whole to Go to the Survivors; and my daughter Mary is to have her Choice of any one Room in my dwelling house as she shall see cause

Lastly, I nominate & appoint my daughter Mary Foster to be the Sole Executrix to this my Last will & Testament—In Testimony of all which I the said Mary Foster Do hereby Set my hand & Seal this 27th. Day of July Anno Domini 1780

Signed Sealed & Declared to be                                                       Two Erasures before Signing

her Last will & Testament in pre-

sence of                                                                                                                                 Mary Foster                                      (seal)

                John Cotton

                John Goddard

                Benjamin Drew

 

Presented for probate on 12 Dec. 1781 by Mary Foster, the Executrix therein named, and proved by John Goddard and Benjamin Drew, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Mary Foster, the before named Executrix.

No inventory of her estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 28, p. 239-240, from FHL microfilm #0550715.

 

 

Will of Samuel A. Frazar, Esq. of Duxbury, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1838) *

                Be it known, that I Samuel A. Frazer of Duxbury, Plymo. County, do make this my last will – viz.

First – I give to my Grand-daughter Elizabeth Frazer Ten dollars and in consideration of what her Father during his life time received from my Estate, said sum is in full of all her share of my Estate.

Second.  I give to Each of my daughters who are unmarried viz. Mercy, Sarah, and Lucy, the sum of One hundred Dollars

Third.  After the payment of my just debts and the above legacies, and the assignment to my widow of her just dower in my real Estate, and such allowance from my personal Estate as the Judge of Probate shall see fit to allow her, I do hereby give and devise all the rest and residue of my Estate, real or personal to be Equally divided among all my children now living, to have and to hold the same to them and their heirs and assigns.

                I do hereby appoint my two sons George Frazar and Thomas Frazar joint Executors to this my will.

                And in testimony of all which I have hereto set my hand and seal. July 20, 1838

                                                                                                                                                Saml. A. Frazar                                (seal)

        Signed, sealed and published by S. A. Frazar as his will in our presence and we in his presence did subscribe the same as witnesses.

                                David J. Cushing

                                Bradford Weston

                                Micah A. Soule

 

Presented for probate on the first Tuesday of Nov. 1838 by Geo. Frazar and Thomas Frazar, the Executors therein named, and proved by Bradford Weston, one of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters Testamentary were granted to George Frazar and Thomas Frazar, the Executors.

 

Thomas Frazar, of Duxbury, was appointed as Special Administrator on the Estate of Samuel A. Frazar, late of Duxbury, Esquire, on 2 Oct. 1838, with George Frazar and Benjamin Alden, of Duxbury, as sureties.

 

George Frazar and Thomas Frazar, of Duxbury, were granted Letters Testamentary on the Estate of Samuel A. Frazar, late of Duxbury, Esquire, on 6 Nov. 1838, with Bradford Weston, of Duxbury, and Joshua Eddy, of Middleborough, as sureties.

George Loring, Zenas Faunce and Benjamin Alden, all of Duxbury, were appointed to appraise the Estate of Samuel A. Frazar, late of Duxbury, on 6 Nov. 1838.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Samuel A. Frazar, late of Duxbury, Esquire, dated 2 Dec. 1838, his real estate totaled $13,040.19, including his homestead valued at $4600, and several other parcels of land, and his personal estate totaled $10,463.04, including notes and certificates. George Frazar and Thomas Frazar gave their oath to the inventory on 28 Jan. 1839, and Thomas Frazar, the Special Administrator on the Estate of Samuel A. Frazar, late of Duxbury, gave his oath to the inventory on 25 Feb. 1839.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 80, pp. 373-374, 527, from FHL microfilm #0555265, Vol. 1G, p. 91, and Vol. 81, p. 60-64.

 

 

Will of Ebenezer Fuller of Kingston, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1755) *

                                                In the Name of GOD, Amen.

I Ebenezer Fuller of Kingston in the county of Plymouth cordwainer, being under indisposition of body, but of a disposing mind and memory, blessed be GOD, do make this my last will and testament in manner and form following. I bequeath my soul to GOD who gave it me, and my body to the earth with a decent christian burial, in hopes of a blessed resurrection, and as to the outward estate it has pleased GOD to bless me with, I dispose of the same in the following manner.     Imprimis. After my just debts are paid, and my funeral charge discharged, I give and bequeath unto my dear & loving wife Joanna Fuller the use & improvement of all my estate real & personal, during her life. ~

Item, I give & bequeath unto my loving son Josiah Fuller, & to his heirs & assigns forever, two acres of that lot where my house is, and half my barn, and half my land at Wancomequa. ~

Item, I give and bequeath to my loving son Ebenezer Fuller, my dwelling-house and other half of my barn, the remainder of the land where my house stands, with the other half my land at Wancomequa, to him his heirs & assigns forever.~

Item, I give and bequeath to my three daughters Rebeccah, Lois, & Eunice (to be equally divided among them) all my personal estate at the decease of their mother,

Finally, I do nominate, ordain and apoint my loving son Josiah Fuller the executor of this my last will & testament, and confirming this & no other to be my last will & testament.  In Witness hereof I have hereunto set my hand & seal this twentyninth anno Domini 1755.

Signed, sealed & declared by the abovesd.                                                                     Ebenezer Fuller                (seal)

Ebenr. Fuller to be his last will & testament

before us.               John Adams

                                Nathan Perkins

                                Francis Adams

 

Presented for probate on 1 Dec. 1772 by Josiah Fuller, the Executor therein named, and proved by John Adams and Nathan Perkins, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Josiah Fuller, the Executor.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 21, p. 192, from FHL microfilm #0550712.

 

 

Will of Ebenezer Fuller of Halifax, Plymouth County, Massachusetts Bay (1785) *

In the Name of God Amen—the twelfth day of July Anno Domini One thousand Seven hundred & Eighty five—I Ebenezer Fuller of Halifax in the County of Plymouth & Commonwealth of Massachusetts, yeoman, being of a perfect & disposing mind and memory, but Calling to mind the mortality of my body & knowing that it is appointed for men once to die, do make & Ordain this my Last will & testament – that is to say first of all I Give & Recommend my Soul into the hands of God that Gave it and my body I Recommend, to the Earth to be buried in a decent Christian burial at the discretion of my Executor, nothing doubting but at the Resurrection I Shall Recieve the same again by the mighty power of God—and with Respect to the worldly Estate with which God has blessed me in this Life, I Give, demise, & dispose of in the following manner. ~

Imprimis — I Give & bequeath to my Grandson Chipman Fuller besides what I formerly Gave to his father Ebenezer Fuller deceased my half of the five & twenty acres of Land which we bought of Samuel Fuller, Lying on the westerly Side of high way & joining to his homestead—Also I Give to said Chipman about three acres of Land more, which I bought of sd Samuel Lying on the East Side of sd. way

Item – I Give to my three Grand-Daughters, namely, Lydia, Priscilla & Evis Fuller, five shillings each to be paid by my Executor within One year after my decease ~

Item – I Give to my two Grand-Daughters, Assenath Kimline & Susannah Wood, besides what I Gave to their father Nathan Fuller a piece of Land, beginning at the west Corner of the Land which John Tomson Gave to his Daughter Elisabeth Fuller and from thence South to a Small Cedar standing on the north Side of the Swamp bridge & from thence Eastward to Souls Cedar Swamp & from thence westerly on a Strait Line to the bounds first mentioned

Item – I Give & bequeath to my Grandson James Bozworth & his heirs all my Homestead Land & meadow adjoining to it which I have not heretofore disposed of—I also Give to said James my bed and all belonging to it, and all my Houshold Goods & tools – I also Give said James Bozworth all my Land from the Small Cedar before mentioned, which Lyeth on the west Side of the way that Goeth to Samuel Smith’s Land, all my Land between said Smith’s Land & Ephraim Fullers Land ‘till it Comes to the north Side of Swamp whereon the Bridge it, and what I Give to him & my Other Grand Children, I Give to them and their Heirs & assigns forever

Item – I Give (besides what I have already Given to my Daughter Elisabeth Tomson & her Children) to my Grandson Thaddeus Tomson my best Coat – also to my Grand daughter Elisabeth Tomson my Smallest Chest ~

Item – My will is that all my Estate which I Shall Leave at my decease, either Real or Personal, not disposed of before, shall belong to my sd. Grandson James Bozworth and that he shall Recieve all that is due to me and pay all my just debts & funeral Charges. ~

Lastly – I do appoint James Bozworth of Halifax in sd. County of Plymouth to be the Sole Executor of this my Last will & testament and I do hereby revoke & disanul all & every Other former wills testaments, Legacies, or Executors by me any way before named willed or bequeathed, Ratifying & Confirming this & no Other to be my Last will & testament— In witness whereof I have hereunto Set my hand and Seal the day & year above mentioned ~

Signed, Sealed & declared to be his

Last will & testament by the said                                                                                     Ebenezer Fuller                                (seal)

Ebenezer Fuller in presence of us

                Ephm. Briggs

                Ephm. Fuller

                Jacob Soul

 

Presented for probate on 4 Dec. 1786 by James Bozworth, the Executor therein named, and proved by Ephraim Fuller and Jacob Soul, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to James Bozworth, the before named Executor.

 

Moses Inglee, Noah Tomson and Ephraim Fuller, all of Halifax, yeomen, were appointed to appraise the estate of Ebenezer Fuller, late of Halifax, yeoman, on 4 Dec. 1786. The Inventory of the Estate of Ebenezer Fuller, late of Halifax, dated 19 Feb. 1787, totaled £104.14.0, including his real estate valued at £96.8. Jas. Bozworth, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 4 Apr. 1787.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 30, pp. 45-48, 112, from FHL microfilm #0550716.

 

 

Will of Ebenezer Fuller of Halifax, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1840) *

                                                                In the name of God Amen.

  I Ebenezer Fuller of Halifax, knowing the uncertainty of this mortal life and being of sound and perfect mind blessed be Almighty God for the same, do make and publish this my last will and testament in manner & form following. and first of all my soul to God who gave it hoping through the merits of his son Jesus Christ for eternal life my body to be buried in a Christian manner at the discretion of my executor and as it respects my worldly Estate, which God has blessed me with, I give and bequeath in the following manner viz.

   first. I give and bequeath to my beloved wife Abigail Fuller the use and improvement of one third of all my real Estate during her natural life, also the use and improvement of all the household furniture during her natural life.

   Second. I give and bequeath to my two daughters Zerviah N. Gammon the wife of Calvin Gammon and Rebecca Fuller The wife of Ephraim Fuller the sum of one hundred dollar to each to be paid by my son hereafter named when he arrives at the age of twenty one years or should I live till he is twenty one years of age the above named legacies to be paid to my daughter one year after my decease.

   Third. I give and bequeath to my son Ebenezer Fuller Jr. all my Estate both real and personal of every name and nature by paying the above named legacies and just debts and funeral Charges

   fourth. I hereby Constitute & appoint Dexter C Thompson Esq. sole executor of this my last Will and Testament and hereby revoking all former wills by me made.

   I witness whereof I hereunto set my hand and seal this thirtieth day of April in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and forty.

                                                                                                                                                Ebenezer Fuller                                (seal)

   Signed, sealed, published and declared by the

   above named Ebenezer Fuller to be his last

   will and testament in the presence of us who

   have hereunto subscribed our names as witnesses

   in the presence of the testator.

                Thomas Pope

                Calvin Sturtevant

                Harriet Thompson

 

The subscriber named as Executor in the above Will declined the acceptance of that trust.

                                                                                                                                                Dexter C. Thompson

 

Presented for probate on the first Tuesday of April 1844 by Dexter C. Thompson, the Executor therein named, and proved by Calvin Sturtevant, one of the Witnesses thereto subscribed.

 

Ebenezer Fuller, of Halifax, petitioned for Administration with the will annexed of the estate of Ebenezer Fuller, late of Halifax, Yeoman, on the first Tuesday of Apr. 1844, Dexter C. Thompson who was named in said Will as Executor having declined. Ebenezer Fuller, of Halifax, was granted Administration with the Will annexed of the estate of Ebenezer Fuller, late of Halifax, on 2 Apr. 1844, with Isaac Fuller and Dexter C. Thompson, both of Halifax, as sureties.

Dexter C. Thompson, Nathan Fuller and Isaac Fuller, all of Halifax, were appointed to appraise the estate of Ebenezer Fuller, late of Halifax, on 2 Apr. 1844.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Ebenezer Fuller, late of Halifax, Gentleman, was not dated, but totaled $3090.00, including his real estate valued at $2725. Ebenezer Fuller, the Administrator with the Will annexed, gave his oath to the inventory on the third Monday of May 1844.

 

Abigail Fuller, the widow of Ebenezer Fuller, late of Halifax, waived the provision made for her in the last Will & Testament of the deceased, and claimed her dower in the Real Estate of the deceased on 28 May 1844, and she was allowed $150 out of the personal estate in such articles as she may select for her necessaries on 28 May 1844.

 

Jabez P. Thompson and Zadock Thompson, both of Halifax, and Samuel Thompson of Middleborough were appointed to set off to the widow Abigail Fuller her dower in the real estate of Ebenezer Fuller, late of Halifax, on 28 May 1844. The division was dated 13 June 1844, and approved on the first Tuesday of Aug. 1844.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 86, pp. 145-146, 200, 232, 349-352, from FHL microfilm #0555637, and Vol. 10A, p. 537.

 

 

Will of Ezra Fuller of Kingston, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1771) *

                                                In the Name of GOD, Amen,

The nineteenth day of March 1771. Ezra Fuller of Kingston in the county of Plymouth in the province of the Massachusetts-Bay in New-England yeoman, being in a very low state of health and weak of body, but of a perfect mind and memory thanks be given to God therefor calling to mind the mortality of my body and knowing that it is apointed for all once to die do make and ordain this my last will and testament, that is to say, Principally and first of all I give and recomend my soul into the hands of Almighty GOD that gave it, and my body I recomend to the earth to be buried in a decent christian burial at the discretion of my executors, nothing doubting but at the general resurection I shall receive the same again by the mighty power of God; and as touching such worldly estate wherewith it hath pleased God to bless me with in this life I give demise and dispose of the same in the following maner and form. ~~

Imprimis, I give and bequeath to my beloved son Samuel Fuller, and to his heirs, all my farm whereon I now dwell, with all the buildings thereon, besides what is hereafter expressed. My will is that my son Samuel shall pay to my other two sons Consider Fuller and to James Fuller five pounds apiece at their ariving to the age of twenty one years. Also that my son Samuel shall pay three pounds apiece to each of my daughters Susannah Fuller & Molly Fuller, at their ariving to the age of twenty one years. Also my will is that my son Samuel shall have the improvement of one half of my real estate from my decease till he arives to the age of twenty one years. –

Item, I give & bequeath to my beloved wife Elizabeth Fuller the improvement of the other half my farm that I have not given to my son Samuel so long as she shall remain my widow, and also a privilege in my house & cellar convenient for her; also room in my barn to keep a cow, and room to put hay for her during her widowhood. Also my will is that my wife Elizabeth Fuller shall have all my indoor movable estate freely to enjoy; also my will is that my outdoor movables shall be to discharge my funeral charges and just debts, and if any be left it shall be my son Samuel,s and my wife’s equally between them. Also I constitute & apoint my wife Elizabeth Fuller & Robert Cook to be my executors of this my last will & testament. Also I constitute & apoint Ebenezer Washburn to be guardian to my three youngest children, Consider Fuller, James Fuller & Molly Fuller, during their minority. Also I constitute & apoint Robert Cook to be guardian for my son ~ Samuel Fuller and daughter Susanna Fuller during their minority.—

   And I do hereby utterly disalow and disanul all and every other former wills, legacies, & bequeath, executors, by me in any way before named, willed, bequeathed, ratifying and confirming this and no other to be my last will and testament.

                                                                                                                                                In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal the twentyeth day of March anno Domini one thousand, seven hundred & seventy one 1771.

Signed, sealed, published, pronounced,

& delivered by the Sd. Ezra Fuller as his                                                                         Ezra Fuller                                         (seal)

last will & testament in presence of us

the subscribers.                     Kimbal Prince

                                                Consider Fuller

                                                Simeon Holmes

 

Presented for probate on 5 Aug. 1771 by Elizabeth Fuller and Robert Cook, the Executors therein named, and proved by Kimball Prince and Simeon Holmes, two of the witnesses.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 21, p. 20-21, from FHL microfilm #0550712.

 

 

Will of Deacon John Fuller of Kingston, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1764) *

In the name of God Amen, On the 31th day of December 1761. I John Fuller of Kingston in the County of Plymouth in New England yeoman Being in perfect health and of a sound, memory, thanks be to almighty God for it, and calling to remembrance the uncertain Estate of human Life, and that all flesh must yield to death whenever it shall please God to call, I do make, constitute, ordain and declare this to be my Last Will and Testament in manner and form following, and first being sorry from my heart for all my sins past, humbly desiring forgiveness for the same, I Give and commit my soul unto almighty God my Saviour and redeemer, and my body to be decently buried, and for the Settling of my temporal Estate which it has pleased God to bestow upon me, I order, Give and dispose of the same in manner and form following. that’s to say, I Will that all my Just debts and funeral charges be well and truely paid by my two Sons Issacher and Ezra Fuller

Imprimis—I Give and bequeath unto my Beloved Son Issacher Fuller, besides the Forty Acres, whereon he now liveth, Seventeen Acres of wood Lott Lying in Plympton at the west end of the Lot, also a piece of meadow Ground called Watson’s meadow, and all my right of Cedar swamp at Swan hole, and also about five Acres of meadow in Jones River meadow at the north west corner I bound it thus to begin at the corner of the ditch next to the Island, and the Line of division to extend about north east to a Large Clump of whortleberry Bushes standing in the Easterly range of my Lot of meadow, also the one half of my right of Cedar swamp in Doten’s Cedar swamp, and the one half of my right of Pews in the meeting house in Kingston

Item—I Give and bequeath unto my beloved Son Ezra Fuller Seventeen Acres of my wood Lot at the Easterly end, and the remaining part of my homestead which I have not Given to my son Issacher, and the remaining part of my Cedar Swamp and meadow, and all my Buildings excepting one third of my dwelling house, the one half of my pews, included in said Buildings

Item—I Give and Bequeath unto my beloved Son Consider Fuller all my wearing apparell, and all my out door moveables or personal Estate Excepting one Cow—

Item—I Give and Bequeath unto my beloved son Eleazer Fuller one third part of my dwelling house and one Good Feather Bed and furniture and the remaining part of my wood Lot Lying between Issachers & Ezra Seventeen Acres above mentioned, Six Acres more or Less.

Item—I Give unto my three daughters, namely, Deborah Prince, Susanna Dingley, and Hannah Bisbe all my indoor moveables, excepting the Bed before mentioned, to have an equal share one with the Other—the Cow which I reserved, I Give to my daughter Hannah Bisbe, Likewise I constitute ordain my Son Issacher Fuller and Kimball Prince my Son in Law to be my Executors of this my Last Will and Testament, and I do hereby utterly, disallow and disannull all and every other former testament Wills, Legacies and Bequests and Executors by me in any ways before named, willed and bequeathed Ratifying and confirming this and no other to be my Last Will and testament, In witness whereof I have hereunto Set my hand and Seal this the twenty second Day of March One thousand Seven hundred and Sixty four

Signed, Sealed, published, pronounced and

declared By the said John Fuller as his Last                                                                  John Fuller                                        (seal)

Will and testament in presence of us the

subscribers

                Ebenezer Washburne

                               his

Eleazer  X  Rickard junr

                             mark

John Faunce ~

 

Probated on 5 Oct. 1778, presented by Issacher Fuller and Kimball Prince, and proved by Ebenezer Washburne and Eleazer Rickard junr.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Deacon John Fuller, late of Kingston, was appraised on 9 Oct. 1778 by Ebenezer Washburne, John Faunce, and William Ripley, and totaled £1221.17.10. including his real estate valued at £910.13.4. Kimball Prince, the Administrator, gave his oath to the inventory on 1 Feb. 1779.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 25, pp. 96-97, 152, from FHL microfilm #0550713.

 

 

Will of Lucy Fuller of Middleborough, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1834) *

        In the name of God, Amen, I Lucy Fuller of Middleborough in the County of Bristol & Commonwealth of Massachusetts, considering the uncertainty of this life & being desirous to dispose of my property according to equity and good conscience and being of sound & disposing mind & memory and in good health, blessed be God for the same do hereby make & publish this my last Will & Testament as follows, viz:

        I do hereby give, devise & bequeath to my son Seth Fuller now of Middleborough in the County aforesd, Merchant, all the Real Estate whereof I am seized or of which I may die seized particularly at lot of land situated in Bridgewater Mortgaged to me by Oliver Conant; and I also devise, give & bequeath to the said Seth Fuller five shares in the Cohasset Bank in Taunton and in case the land above mentioned shall be redeemed & the money arising therefrom shall be loaned upon other security my Will is that the said Seth shall have the full benefit of all the above mentioned property in whatever form it may at the time of my death.

        And I hereby give & bequeath to each of my children, to wit, Thomas, Jabez, Sally & Betsey the sum of One Dollar each & that any hard feelings may be prevented I do hereby declare the cause of my giving the property above mentioned to the said Seth Fuller to be because the said property equitably belongs to the said Seth though now in my hands, it having been bequeathed to him by his brother Zechariah.

        And I do hereby constitute and appoint the said Seth Fuller to be the Executor of this my last Will & Testament & direct him to pay the legacies above mentioned.

        In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand & seal this thirteenth day of August in the Year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and thirty four, hereby revoking all former Wills by me at any time made.

                                                                                                                                                Lucy Fuller                                        (seal)

Subscribed by the testatrix who declared the same to be her last Will & Testament in the presence of us, who subscribed the same in the presence of the testatrix & in the presence of each other

        Philip Colby

        Eliza S. Colby

        H.G.O. Colby

 

Presented for probate on the third Monday of February 1840 by Seth Fuller, the Executor, and proved by Philip Colby and Eliza S. Colby, two of the witnesses.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 82, p. 36-37, from FHL microfilm #0555266.

 

 

Will of Nathaniel Fuller of Plympton, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1749) *

In the Name of God Amen this Sixteenth Day of March one thousand Seven hundred and forty Nine I Nathaniel Fuller of Plimton in the County of Plimouth in New England mason Being Weke of Body but of Perfect mind and memory Thanks be given unto almighty god therefore & Cauling to mind the mortality of my body and knowing that it is appointed for all men once to Dye Do mak and ordain this my Last Will and Testement .. viz Princepely and furst of all I give and Bequeath my Soule unto the hands of god that gave it hoping that threw the merets of Christ Deth and Suferings to recive the forgiveness of all my Sins .. and my Body unto The Earth to be Decently Bured at the Descrition of my Executor hereafter Named and as Touching Such Worldly Estate as it hath Pleased God to Bless me With in this Life I give and Despose of the Same in the following manor and form .. Item. I give and bequeath unto my Well Beloved Wife Martha one feather Bed and furniture During her Natoral Life—

Item. I give and Bequeath unto my aforesd. Wife all the rest of my household goods for her own Desposel Except one fether Bedd and furniture

Item I give and bequeath unto my sd. Wife the youse and Improvement of my Westerly Dwelling house with all the Preveledges thereunto belongen So Long as she shall remands my Widdow and also I give unto my aforesd. Wife one Cow for her own Desposeil. Item. I give and bequeath unto my well beloved Son Amos Fuller my Eldest Son and unto his heirs and assigns forever all my homsted Lands and buldings Whare I now Dwell Excepting my westerly house, I also give and Bequeath unto my sd Son amos fuller his hairs and assigns forever all my meadow Lying in Dotes medow Together with part of my Swamp Lying in Dotes Seder Swampe begining at a Small maple Pole which is the North Corner between Jabez fuller and my Self from thence near South West to a Rock which is the Corner bounds betwen Josiah Rickards Swamp and mine, and from thence in the range between said Rickards Land and my sd Lot untill it Coms to the sforesd Jabez fuller Swamp and from thence to the Bounds first mentoned I also give and bequeath unto my aforesd Son Amos fuller and his hairs for Ever all the remander parte of my Personal and movebel Estate Excepting two fether beeds and furnyture and two Cows and my wairing apperal and also my Will is that my aforesaid Son Shall provide Everything nesseary for my aforesd Wife so Long as She Shall Remain my widow—

Item. I give and bequeath unto my Daughter Sarah Shurtevant to her hears and assigns for Ever one fether Bed and furnyture besides what She hath alredey received out of my Estate. Item. I give and bequeath unto my Daughter Ruth Cobb her hairs and assigns forever my Lot of Land Lying Near Jones river meadow Toards the East End thereof besides What She hath allredy received out of my Estate

Item—I give and bequeath unto my Son Barnabus fuller and his hairs for Ever all my wairing apperal Together with what he hath already received out of my Estate as may appear upon my Book—

Item I give and bequeath unto my grand Son William Fuller and his hairs for Ever all my Lot of Land to the South Weste of my homested Together With the remandering parte of my Seder Swamp ajouning to that parte of Said Lot I Gave unto my aforesaid Son Amos and also my Will is that my aforesd Son Amos fuller Shall have Leberty to Cut and Cart of three Cord of Wood Every year as Long as my wife Shall remane my Widow of the Lot of Land I have given unto my Grand Son William fuller being for her youce and also my will is that if my aforesd Granson William Should Dye without Isue that the Said Lot of Land Which I have given him Shall be Divided amongst my hairs—Item. I give and bequeath unto my Grandaughter Lydia fuller Daughter to my Son Nathanail fuller Deceased the fether Bed and furnyture Which I have given to my aforesd Wife for her improvement During her Natural Life and also my will is that my aforesaid Son Amos fuller, nor his heairs Shall not make any Demand upon my Estate for any Labour that he hath Don Sence he was Twenty one years of age Towards Suporting me or my Famely I also give unto my aforesaid granson William one Cow—and Lastly I Constitute & appoint my aforesd Son Amos fuller Sole Executor on this my Last Will and Testement and my Will further is that my Said Son Amos fuller Should pay all the Just Debts that I Justly owe unto aney person What so Ever out of the Estate that I have Given him and I Do hereby uterly Disalow and revocke all other wills By me before made retifing and Confirming this and no Other to be my Last Will and Testement in Wittness Wherof I have hereunto Set my hand and Seal the Day and year above Writen

Signed Sealed publeshed pronounced

and Decelared by the Said Nathaniel                                                                               Nathanil Fuller                                (seal)

fuller as his Last Will and Testement

in the presents of us the Subscribers

James Harlow

Elkanah Cushman

Josiah Perkins

~~~~~~~~~~~

 

Presented for probate on 7 May 1750, and proved by Jas harlow, Elkenah Cushman and Josiah perkens. Letters of Administration were granted to his son Amos Fuller, the Executor, on 7 May 1750.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Mr. Nathaniel Fuller, Late of Plimton, was appraised on 13 June 1750 by Josiah Perkins, Isaac Bonney, and Samuel Lucas, but not totaled. His homestead farm and buildings were valued at £202.13.4. Thomas [sic] Fuller, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 12 July 1750.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 12, pp. 107-108, 6-7, from FHL microfilm #0551539.

 

 

Will of Samuel Fuller of Halifax, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1840) *

In the name of God Amen. I Samuel Fuller of Halifax in the County of Plymouth in the Sate of Massachusetts Yeoman being of sound mind and memory blessed be Almighty God for the same, considering the uncertainty of this Mortal life do hereby make and publish this my last will and Testament in manner and form following viz.

        I give and devise to my beloved sons Samuel Fuller Jr. and Isaac Fuller their Heirs and assigns forever my Homestead Farm with all the buildings standing thereon, with all the out land wherever situated to be held by them in equal Shares, Provided that they jointly pay my beloved daughter Polly Leach the sum of seventy five dollars, to my beloved daughter Lucy Wood the sum of seventy five dollars and to my beloved daughter Joannah Eddy seventy five dollars to be retained in the hands of my Executor for the use of my said daughter Joannah, as she may stand in need thereof.

I give and bequeath to my beloved Grandsons, sons of my beloved son Benjamin Fuller Deceased the sum of ten dollars each.

        I give and bequeath my personal Estate together with my pew in Mr. Pains meeting house in Halifax to my said sons Samuel and Isaac and to my said daughter Joanna, Polly and Lucy in equal shares, the share belonging to my said daughter Joanna Eddy to be held in trust by my said Executor and paid over to her for her use as he shall judge necessary the above Legacies to be paid by my Executor in one year after my deceas.

        And I do hereby constitute and appoint my said son Isaac Fuller Executor of this my last will and Testament revoking all former wills by me made.

        In witness whereof I the said Samuel Fuller have hereunto set my hand and seal this twenty second day of June in the year of our Lord Eighteen hundred and forty

        Signed sealed and                                                                                                       Samuel Fuller                                   (seal)

delivered by the said Samuel

Fuller as his last will and

Testament in the presence

of us who at his request and

in his presence have hereunto

subscribed our names as

Witnesses

Obadiah Lyon

Chipman Fuller

Alfred Fuller

 

Presented for probate on the first Tuesday of April 1843 by Isaac Fuller, the Executor therein named, and proved by Obadiah Lyon and Chipman Fuller, two of the Witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters Testamentary granted to Isaac Fuller.

 

Letters Testamentary on the Estate of Samuel Fuller, late of Halifax, Yeoman, were granted to Isaac Fuller, of Halifax, on 4 Apr. 1843, with Obadiah Lyon and Chipman Fuller, both of Halifax, as sureties.

Nathan Fuller, Chipman Fuller, and Ebenezer Fuller, all of Halifax, were appointed to appraise the Estate of Samuel Fuller, late of Halifax, on 4 Apr. 1843.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Samuel Fuller, late of Halifax, was not dated, but his real estate was valued at $1675, and his personal estate at $163.77. Isaac Fuller, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on the last Tuesday of May 1843.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 85, pp. 164-166, 241, from FHL microfilm #0555268, and Vol. 1G, p. 238.

 

 

Will of Rebecca Gale of Plymouth, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1826) *

In the name of God Amen I. Rebecca Gale of Plymouth, in the County of Plymouth & Commonwealth of Mass, but lately of Salem in the County of Essex Widow, being of sound and disposing mind and memory do make and ordain this to be my last will and Testament in the first place I commend my soul to God who gave it and my body to a decent funeral humbly praying for a glorious resurection through Jesus Christ in the next place after my just debts are paid I give and bequeath my worldly estate as follows first I give and bequeath to my Son Daniel Gale a legacy of Eighty five Dollars to be paid him out of my Estate after my decease

2d. I give and bequeath to my Grandson George Winslow Gale a legacy of twenty five Dollars to be paid him out of my estate after my decease

3d. I give to my two Grand Daughters Sally Ann and Rebecca Gale each one of them a legacy of one Dollar to be paid them after my decease the above three Grand Children are the children of my son George Gale deceased

4th. I give and bequeath to my son Noah Gale a legacy of twenty five dollars all said legacies are to be paid on demand after my decease

5th. I give and bequeath after my just debts and the above legacies are paid the whole of my Estate both Real and personal wherever the same may be found in Plymouth or Salem aforesaid or elsewhere to be equally divided between my three sons Daniel Gale, John Chase and Stephen Gale Lastly I nominate and appoint my son Daniel Gale to be sole Executor to this my last will and testament In testimony whereof I the said Rebecca Gale have hereunto set my hand and seal this 17th. day of April ADom. one thousand eight hundred and twenty six  Signed Sealed and declared to be her last will and testament in presence of us. –

                                                                                                                                                                her

                                                                                                                                                Rebecca  X  Gale                                 (seal)

                                                                                                                                                                mark

                                                                                                                                                David Harlow

                                                                                                                                                Alethea Simmons

                                                                                                                                                Sally Soule

 

Presented for probate on the first Monday of Dec. 1842 by Daniel Gale, the Executor therein named, and proved by David Harlow, one of the witnesses whose names are subscribed thereto, Sally Soule being now deceased. Letters Testamentary were granted to Daniel Gale, the Executor.

 

Daniel Gale, of Plymouth, was granted Letters Testamentary on the Estate of Rebecca Gale, late of Plymouth, widow, on 14 Aug. 1843, with John Chace and William H. Bradford, both of Plymouth, as sureties.

No inventory of her estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 84, p. 599-600, from FHL microfilm #0555267, and Vol. 1G, p. 258.

 

 

Will of Joseph Gibbs of Wareham, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1844) *

    Be it remembered that I Joseph Gibbs of Wareham in the County of Plymouth and Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Gentleman, do, on this thirteenth day of November in the year of Our Lord one thousand eight hundred and forty four make and publish this my last Will and Testament in manner following, to Wit.

    In the first place I give and devise to Nathaniel Hamblen and David Perry both of Wareham a lot of Woodland Containing about thirty acres lying in Wareham, south of the half mile line, and bounded Northerly by said line, Easterly by land of Benjamin Ellis, Southerly by the old Country road and westerly by land of heirs of Abraham Gibbs, to have and to hold the same to the said Hamblin and Perry their heirs and assigns forever.

    Second. I give and bequeath to my Nephew Alvin Gibbs one half of my household furniture excepting, two Beds and Bedding my best Bureau and one half Dozen Common Chairs, also I give the said Alven the sum of One Hundred Dollars to be paid him in one year after my decease.

Third. I give and bequeath to Joseph Gibbs, the son of said Alvin Gibbs if he lives till he becomes twenty one years old, the sum of fifty dollars to be paid him when he arrives at the age of twenty one years.

Fourth. I give and bequeath to widow Rebecca Barrows, if she survives me one year the sum of fifty dollars.

fifth I give and bequeath to my sister Abigail Fearing One dollar provided she survives me one year.

Sixth I give and bequeath to the Home Missionary Society the sum of Fifty dollars to be paid in One year after my decease.

    Seventh I give and devise to my Nephew Stephen Gibbs all my Estate both real and personal (not before disposed of in this my Will) Wheresoever the same may be found be found or situate, to have and to hold the same to him his heirs and assigns forever he the said Stephen paying all my just debts and funeral Charges and the Legacies aforesaid.

    Lastly I appoint my said Nephew Stephen Gibbs my Executor of this my last Will and Testament.

            In Testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and Seal the day and Year above written.

                                                                                                                                                Joseph Gibbs                                    (seal)

    Signed sealed and published by the said Joseph Gibbs, declaring this to be his last Will and Testament, in presence of us, who at his request were Called as Witnesses to the same, and in his presence did hereto subscribed our names and in the presence of each other.

                                                                Seth Miller Jr.

                                                                Alpheus Hinkley

                                                                Philander Keith

 

Presented for probate on the second Monday of April 1847 by Stephen Gibbs, the Executor therein named, and proved by Seth Miller Jr. and Alpheus Hinkley, two of the Witnesses whose names as subscribed thereto. Letters Testamentary were granted to Stephen Gibbs, the Executor.

 

Stephen Gibbs, of Wareham, was granted administration of the estate of Joseph Gibbs, late of Wareham, Gentleman, on 12 Apr. 1847, with George Gibbs and Benjamin F. Gibbs, both of Wareham, as sureties.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 89, p. 154-156, from FHL microfilm #0555639, and Vol. 1G, p. 465.

 

 

Will of Gideon Gifford of Dartmouth, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1759) *

The Last Will & Testament of Gideon Gifford ~~~

In the Name of God Amen I Gideon Gifford of Dartmouth in the County of bristol In the province of the Massachusets Bay in Newengland yeoman being at this time very much Indisposed as to bodily health and am afraid I am Likely to have the finall pox: but through Divine favour am of a sound Disposing mind perfect memory & under standing as in my Life past praised be the Lord Therefore: Considering the uncertainty of this my Natural Life Do for the preventing future Trouble In my family Make & ordain this my Last Will & Testament that Is to Say Principally & first of all I Recommend my Soule to God my Most mercifull Creator Whence I had my first being and my body I Commit to the Earth there In to be Decently buried at the Discretion of my Executors herein after nominated And as to that temporal Estate Wherewith it hath pleased the Lord to bless me (after all my Just Debts and funeral Expences Expences being first paid and Discharges Out of my Estate by my Executors) all the Rest I Give Devise and Dispose of the Same in Manner as followeth.

Imprimis I Give & bequeath unto my Well beloved Wife Elizabeth Gifford one third part of all my money & household Goods and a priviledge Sufficient for her use In my Dwelling house & a priviledge In my Garden & In ye yard to pass & Repass as she shall have ocation and also a priviledge to Cut her firewood as much as she shall have ocation off for her one fire and also the priviledge to Keep one Cow both Winter & sumer on the farm which I now Live on So Long as it Is to be under my Improvement If I Should have Lived. But If my sd Wife should be suddenly Taken away after me It being Expeted that she must have the Small pox very soon then I Give one quarterpart of my money and household Goods to her own sisters to be Equally Divided amongst them and the Gifts herein Given unto my sd wife to seas & to be of none Effect.

Itim I Give & bequeath unto my Well beloved father Jeremiah Gifford all the money which I have Lent unto him and all that he ows me for boot betwixt two hors Kind which we Exchanged I also Give unto him my sd father twenty Spanish Silver milled Dollers to be paid unto him by my Executers In a Reasonable time after my Deceas out of my money

Itim I Give & bequeath unto my Cuzen Joshua Gifford that money which he ows me upon Bond. Moreover I Give unto him my sd Couzen ten Spanish Silver milled Dollers to be paid unto him by my Executors In a Reasonable time after my Deceas out of my money And I also Give unto him my sd Couzen two Dollers more to be paid unto him at the same time

Itim I Give and bequeath unto my well beloved Sister Elizabeth Soule Nine Spanish Silver milled Dollers & three fifth parts of one Doller to be paid unto her by my Executors In a Reasonable time after my Deceas out of my money.

Itim I Give and bequeath unto my Well beloved Sister Margret Potter twelve Spanish Silver Milled Dollers to be paid unto her by my Executors In a Reasonable time after my Deceas out of my money

Itim My mind & will is and I Do hereby order that my Executers herein after Named pay unto my sister In Law the widow Elizabeth Gifford so much money as will make her a Reasonable Satisfaction for Keeping my sister Sarah Parks

Within sum Reasonable time after my Deceas out of my Estate

Itim I Give & bequeath to my Couzen Deliverance Cornel widow Eighteen Spanish Silver milled Dollers and to her sisters Eighteen Spanish Silver milled Dollers a peice all to be paid unto her & them & Each of them by my Executors here in after named within a Reasonable Time after my Deceas

Itim My mind & will is that My two brothers Namely Addom Gifford and David Gifford have my Schow they paying to my Excutors here after Named Just one half the worth of her

Itim I give & bequeath unto my Well beloved Couzen Jeremiah Gifford son of Jonathan Gifford Deceased the Sum of one Hundred Dollors Spanish Silver milled Dollers to be paid unto him by my Executors within a Reasonable time after my Deceas

Itim I Give & bequeath to my two well beloved Couzens Gideon Gifford & hannah Gifford Children to my Brother William Gifford Deceased my small piece or parcel of Salt meadow Lying In acoaksel River off against the farm Called Robart Kirbyes farm to them their heirs & assigns for Ever to be Divided between them in manner following that is to Say two thirds thereof to ye male & one third thereof to the feemale

Itim my mind & Will is & I Do hereby Will & order that one hundred Dollers of my Estate shall be Left in my Executors (herein after Named) hands to be by them Disposed off to my father or mother or to my Sick Sister Sarah Parks and according to their Discretion and after their Deceases the Remainder of it If any, to be Equally Divided amongst all my Brothers

Itim all the Remainder and Residue of my Estate be of what Nature of Cinde soever Rale or parsonal which Is not herein before other ways Disposed off I give & bequeath unto all my brothers & my Cousens Namely ~ Gideon Gifford & hannah Gifford, Children to my Brother William Gifford Late Deceased to be Equally Divided between all my Brothers Now Living & my two sd Cousens they my two sd Couzens to have only as much as one Brother to be Divided between them In manner following the Son to have two thirds of their Share and the Daughter to have one third

Itim I give & bequeath unto Eseck Wilburs son three Dollers to be paid unto him by my Executors In a Reasonable time after my Deceas

Itim of this my Last will & Testament I do Nominate Constitute & appoint my two well beloved Brothers Namely John Gifford & Joseph Gifford to be Joynt Executors to Take Care & see that the Same be duly & truly fulfilled according to the true Intent & meaning hereof And by these presents I do Revoke make Null & void all & Every other Testaments & wills whatsoever by me heretofore mad or Declared Confirming & allowing this & no other to be my Last will and Testament In Witness whereof I have hereunto Set my hand & Seal this tenth Day of December In the thirty third year of his majesties Reign George the Second by the grace of god King of Great Brittain &c: Annoqe Domini 1759

Signed Sealed published pronounced and Declared

by the sd Gideon Gifford all this the afore Written Instrument

to be his Last will & Testament In the presence of

                                                John Wheeden                                                                                     Mark & Seal                         (seal)

                                         Joshua Barker                                                                              Gideon  +  Gifford ~

                                                                                                                                                                His

approved

April 14th 1760

 

Probated on 14 Apr. 1760, proved by John Weeden and Joshua Barker, and also by Susannah Joy of Dartmouth who was also present at the signing of the will.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Bristol County Probate File “Gideon Gifford, Dartmouth, 1760,” from FHL microfilm #0575151.

 

 

Will of John Gifford of Rochester, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1749) *

In the Name of God Amen The Twety Sixth Day of August AD one thousand & Forty nine I John Gifford of Rochester in the County of Plimouth Yeoman – being in an advanced age but of a Disposing mind & Memory Thanks be Given To God therefor & knowing it is appointed for all Men once To Die Do Make and Ordain this my Last Will and Testement: That is to Say: I Give & Recommend my Soule into the Hands of God that gave it and my Body I Recommend to the Earth To be Buryed in Decent Christian Burial at the Discretion of my Executors & as Touching Such Worldly Estate Wherewith it hath Pleased god To Bless Me in this Life I Give Demise and Dispose of the Same in the Following Manner and form ~

Iprs I Give and Bequeath To My Son Samuel Gifford his heirs and assigns all My Real Estate Consisting of Housing & Lands &c. Together With my Cow – Whome I appoint my Sole Executors of this My Last Will and Testament ~~

Item I Give and Bequeath to my Daughters Ruth Gifford now a Widdow one Shilling to Be paid her at my Decease By My Said Executors To be in full of her Portion in My Estate To geather With What She hath already Received

Item. I Give and Bequeath all the Rest of my Personal Estate after My Just Debts & Funerail Charges are paid out thereof by my Said Executors To and among my Grand-children Namely Ruben Gifford Katherine Gifford Wesson Gifford Salvanus Gifford Huldah Gifford Desire Gifford and Joshua Gifford To be Equally Divided amongst them Excepting my Grandaughters Desire Allen who is To have no Share thereof haveing Reced. the Same already – and I Do hereby Disallow Revoke and Disanull all & Every Other Former Testements, Wills Legacies & Bequests and Executors by me in any Ways before Named Willed and and Bequeathed Ratifying and Confirming this and No other To be My Last Will & Testament In Witness Whereof I have hereunto Sett My hand and Seal the Day and Year above Written –

Signed Sealed Published                                                                                                       his marke

Pronounced & Decelaird By the                                                                                       John  X  Gifford                   (seal)

Said John Gifford as his Last Will &

Tesement in the presents of us Subscribers

John Burge

George King

Noah Sprague

 

Presented for probate on 10 July 1750 by the Executor, and proved by John Burge and Noah Sprague, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted on 10 July 1750.

 

Whereas John Gifford of Rochester in the County of Yeoman Deceasd did on the Sixth day of August Anno Domini 1749 Sign Seal & declare his will in writeing before sufficient Witnesses in which sd Will after Gifts & Legacys then made appointed his son Saml Gifford of Rochester aforesaid Sole Executor of sd. Will & Testament which sd. will was proved & approved But the Executor aforenamed Dying also soon after without haveing gifted anything in sd. admn or towards the Settlement of sd. Estate Administration in therefor Comitted unto Mary Gifford aforesd. Cum Testamento Annexo of all & Singuler the Goods Chattles rights & Credits of the sd. Deceasd faithfully to dispose of the same according to Law and the Direction of the sd. Will … In Testimony whereof I have hereunto Set my hand & the Seal of the sd Court of Probate the tenth day of July A. D. 1750

                                                                                                                                                Jno Cushing


The Inventory of the Estate of Mr. John Gifford late of Rochester, as shown to us by Mary Gifford widow of Samuel Gifford, was appraised on 6 July 1750 by Timothy Ruggles, Edward Doty, and Benjamin Crocker, not totaled, but his housing and lands were valued at £173.6.8. Mary Gifford, the administratrix, gave her oath to the inventory on 11 July 1750.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 12, p. 340-341, from FHL microfilm #0551539, Vol. 11, p. 366-367, and Vol. 12, p. 15-16.

 

 

Will of Jonathan Gifford of Dartmouth, County of Bristol, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1756) *

The thirty Day of December one thousand Seven hundred and fifty Six I Jonathan Gifford of Dartmouth in the County of Bristol and province of the Massachusets bay in Newengland house carpenter Being Sick and weak In boddy but of Sound Disposeing Mind and Memory thanks be to God for the same there fore Calling to Mind the Mortality of My Boddy and knowing that it is appointed for all men once to Die Do Make and ordain this My Last Will and testament that is to Say pricipally and first of all I Commit My Boddy to the Earth to be Decently buried at the Descretion of My Executor hear in after Named and as touching Such Worldly Estate Whear with it hath plased God to bless Me in this Life I Give Demise and Dispose of the Same in the following Manner and form

Imprimis My Will is that all My Lawfull Debts and funeral Charges be first paid and Discharged by My Executor hear in after Named

Item I give and bequeath unto My two Daughters Dele Cornell and Dinah Potter ten pounds Lawfull Money and to be paid to them by My Executor hear inafter Named with in two years after my Deceas and to be Eqully Devded between them; and my Will is and I give to My daugher Dinah Potter my handirons

Item I give and bequeath unto my Son Jeremiah Gifford My best bed well Cloathed all Except Curtains

Item I give and bequeath unto My three Daughters Dele Cornell Mary Case and Dinah potter all my household Goods that is Not before given away to be Equally Devided between them

Item I give and bequeath unto Timothy Potter of Dartmouth Son of My Deceased wife the Sum of Eighteen shillings Lawfull Money and to be paid to him by my Executor hearin after Named with in three year after My Deceas

Item I give and beuath unto my well beloved Son Jeremiah Gifford and to his heirs & assigns for Ever all the Rest of my Estate both Rail and Parsonal not before Given away he fulfilling what I shall and have hear in ordered him

Item My will is that my Son Jeremiah Gifford Give and Execute agood Lawfull Deed of a Certain tract of Land in Dartmouth which I Sold to Joseph Allen

Item I Constitute Make and ordain My well beloved Son Jeremiah Gifford Soule Executor to this My Last Will and testament and I Do hearby utterly Disallow Revoke and Disannul all and Every other former testaments wills Legasies and bequests by Me in any ways before Named Willed and bequeathed Rattifing and Confirming this and no other to be my Last will and testament whear of I have hear unto Set my hand and Seal the Day and year above written

Signed Sealled and Published                                                                                           Jonathan Gifford                             (seal)

Pronounsed and Declared this

to be his Last Will and testament

In the presents of us the Subscribers

Incras Allen

Gedeon Gifford

James Allen

 

Proved on 3 May 1757 by Increase Allen and Gideon Gifford, two of the witnesses to ye within written Instrument.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Bristol County Probate File “Jonathan Gifford, Dartmouth, 1757,” from FHL microfilm #0575151.

 

 

Will and Codicil of Elijah H. Goodrich of Hinsdale, Berkshire County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1877) *

In the name of God, Amen  I, Elijah H. Goodrich of Hinsdale in the County of Berkshire and Commonwealth of Massachusetts, being of sound and disposing mind and memory, knowing the uncertainty of this life do make this my last Will and testament.

First:  I hereby direct that my just debts and funeral charges shall be paid by my executor herein named as soon as convenient, after my decease.

Second:  I give and bequeath to my son John Ellsworth Goodrich the sum of ten dollars, he having received his share of my estate heretofore, & now living in Burlington Vermont.

Third:  I give and bequeath to my son Chauncey Goodrich, now a missionary in China, the sum of ten dollars he having heretofore received his allowance from my estate.

Fourth:  I give and bequeath to my son Charles Wesley Goodrich of Hinsdale the sum of ten dollars, he having heretofore received his portion from my estate.

Fifth:  I give and bequeath to my son Abraham Washburn Goodrich of said Hinsdale the sum of one hundred dollars.

Sixth:  I give and bequeath to Henry Levins Goodrich my son now living in the town of Russell in the County of Hampden the sum of twenty five dollars.

Seventh:  I give and bequeath to my son Elijah H. Goodrich Jr. all the residue and remainder of my estate, both real & personal, wherever the same may be found, he the said Elijah H. Goodrich Jr to have and to hold the same to himself & his heirs and assigns forever, hereby constituting him my residuary legatee.

Finally:  I hereby nominate and appoint my son Elijah H. Goodrich Jr. to be the Executor of this my will & I request that he shall be exempt from giving a surety or sureties on his bond as such Executor, and I further hereby authorize and empower my said Executor, if in the performance of his trust, it becomes necessary or expedient in his opinion to sell at public or private sale any part of my real estate and to execute and deliver proper and sufficient deed or deeds to convey the same.

In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand, and in the presence of three witnesses declare this to be my last Will, this fourth day of October A.D. 1877.

                                                                                                                                                Elijah H. Goodrich

Signed, published & declared by the said Elijah H. Goodrich, as his last will in presence of us who at his request and in his presence, and in the presence of each other have subscribed our names as witnesses hereto the day and year above written.

                                                                                                                                                Darwin Gleason

                                                                                                                                                Milo Stowell

                                                                                                                                                Wm W. Gleason

 

I, Elijah H. Goodrich of Hinsdale in the County of Berkshire do make this codicil to my last Will heretofore made and published by me and dated the fourth day of October A.D. 1877, which will I hereby ratify & confirm in all respects save as the same may be changed by this instrument.  Whereas by said Will I give to my son Abraham Washburn Goodrich the sum of One hundred Dollars, I hereby revoke said legacy and I do hereby bequeath to him the sum of five dollars to be paid to him within one year from my decease.

In testimony whereof I hereunto set my hand and in the presence of three witnesses declare this to be a codicil to my last will this sixteenth day of January, A.D. 1878.

                                                                                                                                                Elijah H. Goodrich

On this sixteenth day of January A.D. 1878, Elijah H. Goodrich signed the foregoing instrument in our presence declaring it to be a codicil to his last will and as witnesses thereof we three do now at his request in his presence and in the presence of each other hereto subscribe our names.

                                                                                                                                                Milo Stowell

                                                                                                                                                Wm. W. Gleason

                                                                                                                                                Orsemus Bills.

 

Presented for probate on 4 Oct. 1887 by Elijah H. Goodrich 2nd of Hinsdale, with no sureties on his bond.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Berkshire County Probate Wills Vol. 117, p. 455-457, from FHL microfilm #1750452.

 

 

Will of William Goodwin of Plymouth, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1816) *

I William Goodwin of Plymouth in the County of Plymouth, Gentleman, do make and ordain this my last Will and Testament- .

        First – To my Son Simeon S. Goodwin I give and bequeath that he now owes me, in full of his share of my estate.

        Second – To my sons William Goodwin Junior, Isaac Goodwin, LeBaron Goodwin, Frederick H. Goodwin, Nathaniel Goodwin 2d and Hersey B. Goodwin, and to my daughters Mary A. Russell and Jane F. Goodwin and their heirs forever I give and bequeath all the rest and residue of my estate real and personal to be equally divided between them, and in case either of them should decease before me without lawful issue, such deceased child’s share shall go to their children if any, otherwise to the survivors of them the said William, Isaac, LeBaron, Frederick, Nathaniel, Hersey, Mary Ann and Jane, deducting from the share of Mary Ann Russell Three hundred and fifth dollars, which I have already advanced to her in her furniture. —

        Third I appoint my Sons William and Isaac, executors of this will, and recommend to them and my other children to maintain that harmony that has hitherto subsisted in the family, and to contribute, according to their respective abilities, towards the relief of such of the family as may be in want, it not being from any particular partiality or affection for any individual that I have directed this mode of distributing my property. And I recommend to them to settle any dispute that may arise upon the construction of this instrument or of the division of the property by impartial referees.

        In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this twenty ninth day of July One thousand eight hundred and sixteen

                                                                                                                                                William Goodwin                            (seal)

Signed, Sealed, published and declared by the said

William Goodwin as his last will, in presence of

us, who have hereunto set our names at his request

and in his presence—          LeBaron Bradford

                                                John B. Thomas

                                                Nathl. M. Davis

 

It is my direction that the following Codicil be added to my last will and form a part thereof—

        First My Executors shall have the power to make sale of my real estate or such parts thereof as they may judge expedient and to vest the proceeds in some profitable funds.

        Second – To my beloved wife Deborah S. Goodwin I give and bequeath the sum of three dollars a week, to be paid her in quarterly payments at Plymouth, during her widowhood.

        I also give and bequeath to her all the personal property that she brought with her at the time of marriage, that shall be in house at my decease—and is to be in lieu of dower or any further claim upon my estate.

        Third I appoint John B. Thomas Esq. and Mr. Thomas Russell additional Executors to my last will and testament.

        Fourth The rest and residue of my Estate whether real or personal I order and direct shall be divided among my sons Isaac, LeBaron, Frederic Henry, Nathaniel, Hersey Bradford, and my daughters Mary Ann Russell and Jane Frances, and their heirs, deducting any advance I have or may make and charge to either of them.

        If at any time before the distribution of my Estate among my children it shall be the opinion of the Judge and Register of Probate for the time being, together with my Executors or the major part of them, that either of my children will so mispend their estate as would probably reduce themselves to poverty, then my executors shall retain the distributive share of such child, and advance only such sums as shall be necessary for his or her support and maintenance, from time to time as they shall judge necessary, and it’s my will that any such child’s share shall be so far considered as properly vesting in the Executors, as not to make it liable to the creditors of any such child, nor subject to transfer as assignment without the consent of the Executors.

        In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this twenty fifth day of February One thousand eight hundred and twenty two—1822

        Signed, sealed, published & declared by                                                                William Goodwin                            (seal)

the said William Goodwin as his last

Will (and Codicil added) in presence of

us who have hereunto set our names

at his request and in his presence

        LeBaron Bradford

        William Bartlett

        Susan Bartlett

 

Presented for probate on 17 Oct. 1825 by Isaac Goodwin and Thomas Russell, two of the Executors therein named, and proved by LeBaron Bradford and John B. Thomas, two of the witnesses to the will, and by LeBaron Bradford and William Bartlett, two of the witnesses to the Codicil. John B. Thomas, the other executor named, refused, and administration was granted to Isaac Goodwin and Thomas Russell.

 

Rosseter Cotton and Joseph Bartlett, Esquires, and Nathaniel Goodwin, Gentleman, all of Plymouth, were appointed to appraise the estate of William Goodwin, late of Plymouth, Esquire, on 23 July 1825. The Inventory was not dated; his real estate totaled $3915.73, including his dwelling house valued at $850, and Diman House & lot and 10 acres of land at Walkway valued at $1325.73, and several other parcels of land. His personal estate totaled $911.01. Isaac Goodwin and Thomas Russell, the Executors, gave their oath to the inventory on 17 Oct. 1825.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 59, p. 444-449, from FHL microfilm #0550910.

 

 

Will and Codicil of William Goodwin Jr. of Plymouth, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1820) *

                                                In the Name of God Amen

                I William Goodwin Junior of Plymouth in the County of Plymouth and Commonwealth of Massachusetts Merchant do make and ordain this as my last Will and testament – Viz –

First To my Brother Simeon S. Goodwin I give the debt he now owes in full of his share of my Estate –

Second To Hannah LeBaron Goodwin Wife of the above named Simeon I give and bequeath the sum of one thousand Dollars should she survive me –

Third To my Brother LeBaron Goodwin I give and bequeath to himself his heirs and assigns six hundred Dollars –

Fourth To my Brother Nathaniel Goodwin I give and bequeath should he survive me two hundred Dollars –

Fifth To my Father William Goodwin Senior of Plymouth I give and bequeath One thousand five hundred Dollars should he survive me–

Sixth To Doctor James Thacher should he survive me I give and bequeath five hundred dollars as a testimony of my gratitude for his kindness and attention to me when under his instruction –

Seventh After the payment of the above mentioned legacies I direct all the rest and residue of my Estate personal and real to be distributed among my Brothers & Sisters not above mentioned to Wit – Isaac Goodwin, Frederick Henry Goodwin, Hersey Bradford Goodwin, Mary Ann Russell Wife of Thomas Russell & Jane Frances Goodwin –

Eight I appoint Isaac Goodwin, Thomas Russell and Nathaniel Morton Davis to be Executors of this testament –

                                In testimony of all which I have hereunto set my hand and seal at Bristol R. Island this second day of October in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred & twenty

        Signed, Sealed, published & declared by the

        said Wm. Goodwin Jr. as his Last Will, in                                                               W. Goodwin Jr.                                 (seal)

        presence of us who have hereunto set our

        names at his request & in his presence –

                Hersey Bradford

                LeBaron Bradford

                Abby Bradford

 

Havana 13th December 1821 – Being of sound mind & memory I add this Codicil to my last Will and testament.—

1st. I give and bequeath to the Widow Ann Boutelle the sum of five hundred Dollars –

2d. It is my will and pleasure & I direct accordingly that before dividing the residue of my Estate among my Brothers and Sisters as mentioned in the seventh item of the foregoing Will that my Executors shall reserve such sum as they shall think sufficient to give my said youngest Brother Hersey Bradford Goodwin a university education at Harvard College

3d. I give and bequeath to the Reverend James Kendall of Plymouth seventy five dollars to purchase a suit of Cloths –

And I appoint William Savage to be the Executor of my Last Will and Codicil so far as relates to my affairs in the Island of Cuba & I request him to make a speedy settlement & compromise of all my affairs here and pay over what he may receive to my Executors in America –

Signed, Sealed, published & declared

by the said William Goodwin Junr.                                                                                  W. Goodwin Jr.                                 (seal)

as a codicil to his last Will & testament

in presence of us who have hereunto set

our names at his request & in his presence

& in presence of each other –

                John Warner

                John Mountain

                B Bascom

                Isaac Hopkins

 

                                Commonwealth of Massachusetts –

Plymouth Ss.

To Gerardus Clark Esquire Notary Public of the City of New York in the State of New York authorised to Administer oaths & take depositions within the said City of New York –

                Whereas the original Will of William Goodwin Junr. late of Plymouth in the County of Plymouth & Commonwealth aforesaid Merchant with a Codicil to said Will annexed hath been offered for probate to me the Subscriber Judge of the Court of Probate within and for the said County of Plymouth by Thomas Russell and others Executors therein named, And whereas Isaac Hopkins a Witness to the said Codicil lives out of the Commonwealth and is now resident at the City of New York aforesaid – I do therefore by virtue of a Law of this Commonwealth in such cases made & provided hereby authorise you to take the deposition of the said Witness in writing respecting the execution of said Codicil and return the same to me together with his Warrant as soon as may be –

                                                Given under my hand and seal of Office at Plymouth in said County of Plymouth this eighteenth day of February A D 1822

                                                                                                                                                Wilkes Wood J.Prob.

 

Proved by Isaac Hopkins of the City of New York, one of the subscribing witnesses to the Codicil of the Will of William Goodwin Junior who died at the Havana two or three days after the execution of the said Codicil by deposition on 6 Mar. 1822 before Gerardus Clark, Commissioner & Notary Public.

Proved at Plymouth on 19 Mar. 1822 by LeBaron Bradford, the only subscribing witness to the Will within this Commonwealth. The Will and Codicil were approved.

 

Isaac Goodwin Esq, of Sterling in the County of Worcester, Thomas Russell, Gent. and Nathaniel Morton Davis Esq., were granted Letters of Administration on the estate of William Goodwin Jr., late of Plymouth, Merchant, on 19 Mar. 1822, with William Davis Esq. and William Goodwin, Gent., of Plymouth, as sureties.

 

John M Goodwin Esquire of Bridgwater, Thomas Davis and William S. Russell Merchants, both of Plymouth, were appointed to appraise the Estate of William Goodwin, late of Plymouth, Merchant, on 19 Mar. 1822. The Inventory of the Estate of William Goodwin Junior, late of Plymouth, Merchant, was appraised on 14 May 1822, and totaled $17,113.58, including $9554.20 in United States Stock, $4487.54 in Notes of hand, $1900.00 in Plymouth Bank Shares, and $938.64 in cash on hand. The Executors of the last Will and testament of William Goodwin Junior severally gave their oaths to the inventory, Isaac Goodwin Esquire on 17th of May, Nathaniel M. Davis Esquire on 20th of    , and Thomas Russell on the 17th of June 1822.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 54, p. 360-363, from FHL microfilm #0550908, Probate Docket #8636, and Vol. 56, p. 45-46.

 

 

Will of John Gray of Kingston, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1728) *

The Last Will & Testament of John Gray of Kingston in ye County of Plymth. I the sd John Gray being weak in Body but of sound & disposing Mind & Memory & being desirous to Set my house in order before I go hence do Make & Ordain this my last Will & Testament. And first I commend my Soul to God that gave it & my Body to the Earth to be decently buried according to ye Discretion of my Executrix hereafter Named Hoping for a joyfull Resurrection through the Merits of Jesus Christ my Redeemer. And as touching my Outward Estate wherewith God hath blessed me in this Life I Dispose of ye Same as followeth viz: Imprimis I Give & Bequeath unto my Well beloved Wife Joanna Gray during her natural Life the Use Improvement & Income of all my Lands whatsoever which I have not already Disposed of by Deed of Gift with so much of my Buildings thereon as She shall have occasion to Make use of for her comfortable accommodation.

Item. I Give & Bequeath unto my sd Wife my best Bed & furniture suitable for it. Itm I Give & Bequeath unto my Son Samuel Gray over & above what I have already Given him by Deed of Gift (which I do hereby Confirm to him) all my Lands Meadows & Buildings & all & singular my real Estate whatsoever & wheresoever lying & being, not heretofore disposed of by Deed of Gift to him the sd Samuel Gray his Heirs & assigns forever & after ye Decease of my Wife Joanna Gray—

Itm I Give unto my sd Son Samuel Gray all my Wearing Cloths my Gun & Sword A Silver Spoon, a Bed & furniture (which he hath already in Posession) Together with what is due to me by Bond from my Son in Law John Tincom Hereby ordering him to pay to my Daughter Mercy the Sum of Thirty pounds, in Money or Bills of Credit. And further it is my Will that my sd Son Samuel Allow to my Daughters Joanna Fuller & Mercy Gray their Heirs & assigns the Priviledge of Passing over ye Land which I have given him to and from ye Land which I have given them respectively where it shall be most convenient through Gates or Bars which Priviledge I have given to my sd Daughters by Deed—

Itm I Give & Bequeath to my abovesd Wife during her natural Life One quarter Part of ye Hay which shall be cut by my Son Samuel on ye Salt Meadow & Sedge Ground I have given him lying on Smelt River—

Itm I Give & Bequeath unto my Daughter Mercy Gray over & above what I have already Given her by Deed (which I do hereby Confirm) a Bed Bolster Bedstead, A Suit of Curtains, Two Pair of Sheets, a Pair of Blankets, Two Curtains Two Pillows & Curtain Rods, Also two Cows a Chest of Draws, Two black Chairs, Six Common Chairs a Pair of Tongs & fire slice[?], a Spit, a Trammel a Small Iron Kettle, an Iron Skillett, & a Silver Spoon —  Itm I Give & Bequeath all the Remainder of my Personal Estate as followeth viz: One Third Part thereof to my aforesd Wife forever, one Third Part thereof to be equally Divided among my three Daughters, viz Anne Tinkcom Joanna Fuller & Mercy Gray their Heirs or assigns, And all the Remainder thereof I do Give & Bequeath to my Son Samuel Gray Together with my Pew below in ye Meeting House in Kingston. And my Will is that my Pew in the Gallery in sd Meeting House shall be Improved by ye Children of my three Daughters, viz. Such of them as shall live in this Town from time to time — Lastly I do hereby Constitute Appoint & ordain my aforesd Son Samuel Gray Sole Executor of this my last Will & Testament and do order him to pay all my just Debts & funeral Charges out of ye Estate I have given to him in this my Will, Hereby Revoking all other Wills and Testaments by me made Allowing & Confirming this only as my last Will and Testament. In Witness whereof I the sd John Gray have hereunto Set my hand & Seal this twenty third day of September anno Domini One thousand Seven hundred and twenty eight 1728

Signed Sealed & Declared by ye sd John Gray                                                               John Gray                                          (Seal)

to be his last Will & Testament In Presence of us

Thos. Croade  —  David Sturtevant

                Jonathan Sturtevant

 

July the 4. 1732  Thomas Croade & David Sturtevant made oath before Isaac Winslow, Judge of Probate.

July ye 21: 1732  Jonathan Sturtevant made oath before Isaac Winslow, Judge of Probate, and the letter of administration on the estate of John Gray given to Samuel Gray the only son of ye sd deceased.

 

Mr. Samuel Foster, Mr. Joseph Mitchell & Mr. Seth Chipman, all of Kingston, were appointed to appraise the estate of Mr. John Gray, late of Kingston, on 4 July 1732. The inventory was dated 7 Aug. 1732, his personal estate was valued at £211, his real estate was valued at £350, and was sworn to by Samuel Gray, the executor, on 8 Aug. 1732.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 6, pp. 191-192, 215-216, from FHL microfilm #0550512.

 

 

Will of Molly Gray of Plympton, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1837) *

                                                                In the name of God Amen

        I Molly Gray of Plympton, County of Plymouth and Commonwealth of Massachusetts, widow of William Gray Considering the uncertainty of this mortal life and being of sound mind, and Memory blessed be God for the same, do make & publish this my last will and testament in manner & form following: that is to say.

        I give my soul to God who Gave it, and my body to the dust to be buried in decent Christian burial. And as to my Worldly estate 1st.

  I give one undivided half of the house and land where I now live to Elizabeth Robbins the wife of Capt. Lewis Robbins. I also give unto said Elizabeth my pew in the Meeting House in Plympton, to her, her heirs and assigns forever

2. I give unto Lewis C. Robbins, and Sylvester H. Robbins Children of Elizabeth Robbins One share each in the Old Colony Bank at Plymouth If either of them should die under age, his share in said Bank to go to the other, his heirs & assigns forever

3 I give and bequeath to Jerusha Parker one share in the Old Colony bank, to Abigail Parker and Mary Parker Children of Dr. Daniel Parker late of Norton one share in the Old Colony Bank in Plymouth in equal divisions to them their and assigns forever.

4 I also give and bequeath to Mrs Wimar wife of John Wimar all my property not otherwise disposed of, of any kind including all debts due, notes of hand, all my household furniture and wearing apparel to her, her heirs and assigns forever.

  And I do appoint Elijah Dexter of Plympton my sole Executor, and I do revoke all wills heretofore made by me and established this my last Will, and Testament.

  I witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this twenty ninth day of June in the year of our lord One thousand eight hundred and thirty seven. 1837

                                                                                                                                                Molly Gray                                        (seal)

Signed, sealed, published

and declared by the above

named Molly Gray in the

presence of us as witnesses

        Elijah Dexter

        Lewis Bradford

        Nathaniel Morton

 

Presented for probate on the first Monday of Dec. 1843 by Elijah Dexter, the Executor therein named, and proved by Lewis Bradford, one of the Witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters Testamentary were granted to Elijah Dexter, the Executor therein named.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of widow Molly Gray, late of Plympton, was appraised on 28 Nov. 1843 by Jonathan Parker, Wm. H. Soul and Isaac Wright, her real estate valued at $255, and her personal estate valued at $499.20, including four shares in the Old Colony Bank in Plymouth worth $100 each. Elijah Dexter, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on the first Monday of Dec. 1843, and he was granted license to sell the personal estate of the deceased on 4 Dec. 1843.

 

Elijah Dexter, of Plympton, was granted Letters Testamentary on the Estate of Molly Gray, late of Plympton, Singlewoman, on 4 Dec. 1843, with Lewis Bradford, of Plympton, and James Cole, of Carver, as sureties.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 85, p. 563-565, from FHL microfilm #0555268, and Vol. 1G, p. 264.

 

 

Will of Aaron F. Green of Stafford, Tolland County, Connecticut (1871) *

        In the name of God Amen.  I Aaron F. Green of Stafford in the County of Tolland & State of Connecticut of lawful age & of sound mind and memory do make and ordain this my last Will & testament in manner following that is to say:

        First.               I will and direct that my Executrix hereinafter named pay out of my estate my just debts & funeral charges.

        Second.          I give and bequeath unto Azubah Burley the Sister of my first wife the privilege of a home at my house during her natural life, She Supporting herself in the meantime.

        Third.             I give devise and bequeath unto my present wife Emily Green all of the remainder of my estate both Real and personal of every name and nature to be hers forever & at her entire disposal.

        Fourth.           I constitute and appoint my wife Emily Green Executrix of this my last will & testament.

        In witness whereof I have set my hand and Seal this 21st day of Nov. A.D. 1871

                                                                                                                                                Aaron F. Green                                (seal)

        Signed sealed & declared by the said Aaron F. Green as his last Will & testament in presence of us who in his presence & the presence of each other have hereunto Subscribed our names.

                                                                                                                Ephraim Dimmick               }

                                                                                                                Joshua Wood                        }   Witnesses

                                                                                                                Mary F. Wood                      }

 

Presented for probate by Emily Green, wife of the deceased and named Executrix, on 29 Nov. 1881. Proved by Joshua Wood, of Stafford, on 29 Nov. 1881 before Seth C. Eaton, Justice of the Peace. C. G. Ellis and O. L. Judd, both of Stafford, were appointed to appraise the estate of Aaron F. Green, late of Stafford, on 13 Dec. 1881. The inventoruy was valued at $1090.00, including his house and lot valued at $1000.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Town of Stafford Register of Probate Records Vol. 20, p. 362-364, from FHL microfilm #1320435.

 

 

Will of Thomas Gullifer of Duxbury, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1762) *

In the Name of God Amen. the 2d. day of Septr. 1762. I Thomas Gullifer of the town of Duxborough in the county of Plimouth in the Province of the Massachusets Bay in New=England Marriner, being sick & weak of body but of perfect mind & memory (thanks be given to God): therefore calling to mind the mortality of my body & knowing that it is appointed for all men once to die do make & ordain this my last will & testamt. that is to say, principally & first of all I give & recommend my Soul into the hands of God that gave it & my body I recommend to the earth to be buried in a decent christian burial at the discretion of my Excr. nothing doubting but at the Genl. Resurrection I shall receive the same again by the mighty power of God, & as touching such worldly estate wherewith it hath pleased God to bless me in this life I give demise & dispose of the same in the following manner & form. ~

Imprs. I give & bequeath to my well beloved wife Ketura Gullifer the improvement of all my estate both real & personal (after the payment of my just debts,) during her natural life to be used as she shall see fit, & to be improved by her without any molestation or disturbance I likewise constitute, make & ordain her the sd. Ketura Gullifer to be sole Exx. of this my last will & testament. ~

Item. I give to my welbeloved son John Gullifer the one third part of all my estate both real & personal as lands, chattles, tenements & Messuages after the death of the sd. Ketura Gullifer by him freely to be possessd. & enjoyd. forever, as his own proper estate of inheritance in fee simple. ~

Item. I give unto my welbeloved son Thomas Gullifer the one third part of all my estate both real & personal such as lands tenements Messuages & chattles, after the death of my beloved wife aforesd. by him freely to be possesd. & enjoyd. forever as his own proper estate of inheritance in fee simple. –

Item. I give to my welbeloved son Peleg Gullifer another third part of all my estate both real & pers’nl. lands, tenements, Messuages & Chattles after the death of my beloved wife by him freely to be possessd. & enjoyed as his own proper estate of inheritance in fee simple. Futhermore I do hereby utterly disallow revoke & disannul all & every other former testament, legacys, wills, bequests, & Excecutors, by me in any ways named, willed & bequeathed, ratifying & confirming this & no other to be my last will & testament. Witness whereof I,ve hereunto set my hand & seal the day & Year above written.

Signd Seald. publishd. pronouncd. & declared by sd. Thos. Gullifer as his last                          Thomas Gullifer               (seal)

will & testamt. in prcence of.             Elijah Packard

                                                                                Yeats

                                                                James X Yeats

 

Presented for probate on 5 Aug. 1765 by Keturah Gullifer, the Exx. therein named, and proved by Elijah Packard &           the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Ketura Gullifer, the Executrix.

 

Nathaniel Simmons and Ebenezer Chandler, yeomen, both of Duxborough, were the sureties on the bond of Keturah Gullifer widdow as Executrix of the last will of Thomas Gullifer, late of Duxborough.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 19, pp. 246-247, 214, from FHL microfilm #0550711.

 

 

Will of John Hacket of Middleborough, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1763) *

                                                In the Name of God, Amen.

This twenty second day of november 1763. I John Hacket of Middleborough in the county of Plymouth, yeoman, being in health of body, and of a sound, disposing mind and memory, thanks be given to God therefor. Wherefore ~ calling to mind the mortality of my body, knowing that it is appointed for all men once to die do make and ordain this my last will & testament. – Principally & first of all, I give and recommend my soul into the hands of God that gave it, and my body to the earth, to be buried in decent, christian, burial, nothing doubting but at the general resurrection I shall receive the same again, by the mighty power of God. and as touching such worldly estate wherewith it hath pleased God to give me in this life, I do give and dispose of the same in the following manner & form.

Imprimis. I give and bequeath unto Priscilla my true & beloved wife, the improvement of one third of all my real estate, as also the improvement of one room, that she shall chuse, in the dwelling-house I now live in, I also give her one cow, and one feather-bed with furnichure as to be necessary for the keeping of house, during her natural life.

Item. I give & bequeath unto my son Elijah Hacket, & his heirs forever, the easterly part of my homestead farm, namely, all that part that lieth on the easterly side of a division fence I have made across my said farm, together with all the buildings and fences on the same now standing, except the improvement of one half of the orchard on the same, which improvement I reserve for my son Ephraim Hacket for & during the term of the natural life of Priscilla my aforesaid wife, and furthermore my will is, and I do order my aforesd. son Elijah to pay out of the same twenty shillings unto my daughter Hannah Waldan, which twenty shillings as aforesaid I give unto my said daughter Hannah and her heirs, to be paid her by my sd. son Elijah, in three years after my decease.

Item, I give & bequeath unto my son Benjamin Hacket, & to his heirs, my two lots of land lying in Titticut precinct, together with the buildings & fences on the same now standing, and is the same whereon the said Benjamin now lives he paying out of the same to my daughter Alice Finney the sum of two pounds lawful money in three years after my decease, which two pounds as aforesd. I give & bequeath unto my daughter Alice, and her heirs forever.

Item. I give & bequeath unto my son Ephraim Hacket the westerly end of my homestead farm, all that part which lieth on the westerly side of a division line, I made across my sd. farm, together with the dwelling house & barn, & fences now standing, to him & his heirs forever, as also the improvement of one half the orchard that lieth in my said son Elijah,s part, during the term of the natural life of Priscilla my aforesd. wife. and at her decease, then for Elijah to come into the possession of the same, without any let or hindrance whatsoever. My will is that my sd. son Ephraim pay out of the above legacy twenty shillings lawful money to my daughter Elizabeth Richmond & her heirs forever, to be paid her in three years after my decease. Furthermore my will is, & I do hereby give unto my sd. son Ephraim all my moveable estate that is not given away, he paying all my just debts & funeral charges out of the same. Furthermore, my will is, & I do hereby appoint my sd. son Ephraim Hacket the executor to this my last will & testament, thus hoping that this my last will & testament will be kept according to the true intent & meaning hereof. In witness whereof I the sd. John Hacket have set my hand & seal, the day & year above-written.

Signed, sealed, published, pronounced, & declard,                                                       John Hacket – (seal)

by the sd. John Hacket to be his last will & testament in presence of us the subscribers.

Seth Richmond, Joseph Leonard ye 3d. Eleazer Richmond.

 

Presented for probate on 4 Jan. 1768 by Ephraim Hacket, the Executor therein named, and proved by Seth Richmond and Joseph Leonard the third, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Ephraim Hacket, the Executor, with Eleazer Richmond and Joseph Leonard the 3d, all of Middleborough, yeomen, as sureties.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 20, p. 4-5, from FHL microfilm #0550711.

 

 

Will of Samuel Haight of Flushing, Queens County, Province of New York (1712) *

I Samuell Haight of Flushing in Queens County on Nassaw Island Yeoman being sick and Weake of body but my understanding Sound and good and well knowing that it is appointed For all men to dye am Willing to sett my house in order and Do Make and ordaine this to be my last will and Testament (that is to Say) touching such Worldly Estate wherewith it hath pleased God to Bless me in this life I give Demise and Dispose of the same in the following Manner and form, First I will and bequeath unto Sarah my well beloved wife all my Moveable Estate both of Goods and Chattels (Excepting) Such things as I shall herein after otherwise Dispose of and also my house barn orchard and all the land that Joyneth unto it that I have in Flushing and one peice of about thirty acres of wood Land Lying toward the bayside and my Meadow at the round Meadow and all my other Meadows in the bounds of Flushing (Excepting what Meadow I shall herein Dispose of unto my son Nicholas for her my wife to Enjoy without any Manner of Impeachment ofwest untill my Son John Haight shall Marry or Arrive at Twenty one years of age or which of them shall first happen and from that time my wife shall have and Enjoy for her own use profitt and benifitt the Equally half of all the Dwelling house barn orchard and Lands and Meadows above Mentioned (Excepte as above Excepted) for and Dureing her Naturall Life, I will and bequeath unto my Son Nicholas Haight and to his Heires and assignes for Ever, All that of three Twenty acre lotts of Land lying on the Hills where he Dwells and my four Ten acre Lotts lying under the Hills Situated as they are recorded in the Town books of Records of Flushing and the Equall half of that Share of Meadow that I have Lying in ters Neck bounded Northward by Samuell Lathams Meadow and Southward by Thomas Fords Meadow I also give unto my Son Nicholas all my weareing Cloathes, I will & bequeath unto my Son Jonathan Haight and to his heires and assignes for Ever the Equall Mojety and half part of that Lott of Land that Lyeth within the Township of Rye in west Chester County it being the Lott in number one in the Purchase Called Harrisons Purchase; provided he or his heires Executors or administrators do well and truly Discharge and pay unto Mary Tallman or to her heires and Executors Lawfull attorney or assignes a Debt of Twenty Seven pounds wherein I stand bound for the payment thereof with him and if he doe not Discharge and pay the said Twenty Seven pounds then my Executors herein after named Shall Sell So Much of from the said Land as Shall Discharge the said Debt and their Deed shall be Lawfull and good for the Same, I will and bequeath unto my Son David Haight and to his heires and Assigns for Ever the Equall half of that Lott of Land that lyeth within the Township of Rye in west Chester County it being the Lott in number one in the Purchase Called Harrisons Purchase I will and bequeath unto my Son John Haight and to his heires and assignes for Ever my Dwelling house barn orchard and all my Lands and Meadows Lying in the Township of Flushing (Excepting) what is herein otherwise Disposed of the one half for him to possess and Enjoy at his Marriage Day or at the age of one and Twenty years and the other half at the Decease Of my wife and if so happen that my Son John Haight Should Dye without haveing Lawfull Issue, all his part of Land & Meadow shall be Equally divided amongst all the rest of my Surviveing Children to them and their heires and assignes for Ever after the Decease of Wife, I will and bequeath unto my Grand Son James Haight and to his heires and assignes for Ever my Share of fresh meadow Lying in the uper part of the fresh Meadows, my will is that my Negro man Luke shall be Sold and the Money that he is Sold for Shall be Equally divided between my Daughters Hannah Haight and my Daughter Phebee Haight. I will and bequeath unto my Daughter Sarah Titus my Negro boy that Liveth with her being named Titus  I will and bequeath unto my Daughter Hannah my Negro Boy named Mingo; I will and bequeath unto my Daughter Phebee my Negro boy named Bristo  I will that my Executors hereafter named Shall Sell and Dispose of two hundred acres of Land that I have being part of my lot of Land in number Six of Harrisons Purchase aforesaid in West Chester County to Discharge and Defray a Debt of Thomas Cardalls that I am bound with him for to pay to Samuell Bayard & Rip Van Dam and the over plush Money Shall be my Wifes, and the Remaining part of the said Lot of Land aforesaid be it more or Less my will is that it Shall be Equally Divided amongst my five Daughters (vizt) Susannah Griffen and Sarah Titus and Mary Huystead and Hannah Haight and Pheebe Haight to them and their heires and assignes for Ever my Will is that after the Decease of my Wife all my Moveable Estate of goods and Chattells shall be Equally Divided amongst my Daughters abovenamed, my Will is that the four hundred acres of Land that I have Conditioned with John Harison of East Jersey for in Lieu or Exchange for my houses and Land in Amboy Shall be Equally Divided between my four Sons (Vizt.) to Nicholas Haight, Jonathan Haight, David Haight and John Haight to them and their heires and assignes for Ever, and If said Exchange or Conditions for Exchange should not be Effected, then my houses and Land at Amboy Shall be Equally Divided amongst my four Sons above named to them and their heirs and assignes for Ever, I hereby do Constitute Make and ordaine my beloved wife Sarah Haight and my Friends Robert Field and William Willis to be my sole Executors of this my last will and Testament and do fully Impower and Authorize them to Sell and Convey the said two hundred acres of Land at Rye aforesaid and of my houses and Lands at Amboy and to give Deeds and Conveyances for the same and I do hereby utterly Disallow Revoke and Disanull all and every other and former Testaments wills and Legaceys bequests & Executors by me in any ways before this time named willed and bequeathed Ratifying and Confirming this and no other to be my Last Will and Testament  In Witness Whereof I have hereunto Sett my hand and Seal the Twenty first Day of the Seventh Month in the yeare of our Lord one thousand Seaven hundred and Twelve, the words (of Land) and the word money Enterlined before Signing and Sealing and the words (at Amboy),

                                                                                                                                                his Marke

                                                                                                                                   Samuel  S R  Haight                        (seal)

Signed Sealed published pronounced and Declared by the Said Samuel Haight to be his last Will and Testament in the presence of,

John Embree

Thomas Hinchman

Thomas Clement

 

Probated on 21 Oct. 1712, and Letters of Administration were granted to Robert Field and William Willis, two of the Executors.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from New York County Probate, Liber 8, p. 134-137.

 

 

Will of Joseph Hall of Kingston, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1840) *

In the name of God Amen I, Joseph Hall of Halifax in the County of Plymouth State of Massachusetts being weak and feeble in body but of sound and perfect mind and memory thanks be to Almighty God for the same do make and declare this my last Will & Testament in manner and form as follows.

I give and bequeath all the estate of which I may die seized after paying my just debts and funeral charges to my Daughter Ann Maria Turner with the exception of Ten Dollars, which I give and bequeath to my Daughter Mary Holmes Alden.

And I hereby appoint Thomas Cushman of Bridgewater in County and State aforesaid, to be the sole executor of this my last Will & Testament

                                                                                                                                                Joseph Hall                                        (seal)

Signed Sealed published and declared by the above named Joseph Hall to be his last Will & Testament this 25 Day of November in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and Forty in presence of us who have hereunto subscribed our names in presence of the Testator

Joshua S. Hayward

Stephen C. Hayward

Thomas Cushman

 

Presented for probate on the third Monday of Jan. 1841, and proved by Stephen C. Hayward and Thomas Cushman, two of the Witnesses whose names are subscribed thereto.

 

Sumner Turner, of Halifax, was granted Letters of Administration with the Will annexed of the Estate of Joseph Hall, late of Halifax, Thomas Cushman named as Executor thereof having declined the trust, on 18 Jan. 1841, with Thomas Cushman and Stephen C. Hayward, both of Bridgewater, as sureties.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 83, p. 2-3, from FHL microfilm #0555267, and Vol. 10A, p. 510.

 

 

Will of Ruth Hall of Kingston, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1838) *

  In the name of God, amen, I Ruth Hall of Kingston in the County of Plymouth, widow, being weak in body but of sound mind and memory, considering the uncertainty of this mortal life do make and publish this my last will and testament in manner and form as follows:  First, I give and bequeath unto Charles T. Hall and Elisha Hall the land and the buildings thereon, that was set off to me as my thirds in the estate of Judah Hall, my first Husband. Also a piece of woodland in Pembroke, about four acres all of which I hold by deed reference to be had for bounds and description of the property on the record. Also my share of my father’s property now in the hands of my brother Gideon, if any there should be after him. I next give to Charles T. Hall, Elisha Hall and George W. Hall all the land and property I purchased of Asenath Hall’s heirs, which I hold by deed to be divided between them in equal shares. I also give them all my furniture, goods, or articles, that may be found belonging to me, all to be divided in equal shares between my three children. All securities and money on hand, if any there should be after my debts and expenses are paid, I give to George W. Hall. I also appoint Robert Holmes Executor of this my last will and testament, hereby revoking all former wills by me made.

   In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal, this third day of March in the year of our Lord, one thousand eight hundred and thirty eight.

                                                                                                                                                Ruth Hall                            (seal)

   Signed, sealed published and declared by the above named Ruth Hall to be her last will and testament, in the presence of us who have hereunto subscribed our names as witnesses in the presence of the testator.

                Amos Witherell

                Melatiah Holmes

                Anna Holmes

 

Presented for probate on the second Monday of April 1838 by Robert Holmes, the Executor therein named, and proved by Amos Witherell and Anna Holmes, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters Testamentary were granted to Robert Holmes, the Executor therein named.

 

Letters of Administration on the estate of Ruth Hall, late of Kingston, widow, were granted to Robert Holmes, of Kingston, on 9 Apr. 1838, with Amos Witherell, of Kingston, and Robert Barker, of Pembroke, as sureties.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of the Widow Ruth Hall, late of Kingston, was appraised on 16 Apr. 1838 by James N. Sever, Robert Barker, and Amos Witherell, and totaled $3461.48, including her real estate valued at $796.68, and $2411.19 in notes of hand and interest.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 80, pp. 101-102, 136-137, and Vol. 1G, p. 74.

 

 

Will of William Hallock of Brookhaven, Suffolk County, Province of New York (1749) *

                                In the Name of God Amen ye forth day of March Anno:quo: 1748/9 I William Hallack of Brookhaven in Suffolk County and Colony of New York Yeoman being perfect in health and Memory thanks be to God for the same therefore calling to mind the mortallity of Man, and knowing that it is appointed for all men once to Die do make and ordain my last Will and Testament that is to say principally and first of all I give and recommend my Soul into the hands of Almighty God that gave it and my body I recommend unto the Earth to be buried in a Christian decent manner according to the discression of my Executors hereafter Named nothing doubting but to receive the same by the mighty power of God and as touching such world Estate wherewith it hath pleased God to bless me in this Life, I give demise and dispose of the same in the following manner and form. Imprimis I give and bequeath to Dinah my dearly beloved Wife all my moveable Estate after my Just Debts and funeral Charges are paid out of the same by my Extrs. and also my whole Estate both personally and real during her Widowhood and no Longer Excepting the Lott whereon my Son Jesses house now stands being about Sixteen rods wide and to extend across the road Westward the same wedth to the end of my bounds and likewise a lott of ther same wedth on the other side the length of my bounds to my son William and the homestead between these two Lotts and hill fronting to Richard and David equally between them at the Decease or Marriage of their Mother. Item I give and bequeath unto my sons Jesse William Richard and David after the Decease or Marriage of their Mother all the remainder of my Lands and meadows equally except Jesse and his part to be ten pounds the best so Judged by reasonable men Item I give and bequeath unto my four Daughters Mary Dinah Sarah and Elizabeth all my moveable Estate equally among them to be divided after the expiration of the said Widowhood, it is my will that the part which falleth to my Daughter Mary Long wife to William Long be given to her and her own disposal and not his for her own use and also that she may Lodg the same in any of her friends hands for her use, and I do hereby make and ordain my Wife Dinah Hallock and my Son Jesse Hallock my Executors of this my last Will and Testament, and I do hereby utterly disallow revoke and disannul all and every other former Testaments Wills Legacies Bequests and Executors Whatsoever by me in any ways before named Willed and bequeathed ratifying and Confirming this and no other to be my last Will and Testament. In Witness whereof I have hereunto Set my hand and Seal the Day and Year above written

                                                                                                                                                William Hallock                               (seal)

Signed Sealed published pronounced and declared by the said William Hallock as his last Will and Testament in presents of us the Subscribers

Samuel Davis

George Davis

Jesse Willits

 

Probated on 19 Mar. 1765, and proved by Samuel Davis and George Davis, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration granted to Jesse Hallock, one of the Executors, on 1 June 1765.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from New York County Probate, Vol. 25, p. 76-78, copied from original Liber 25, p. 67-69.

 

 

Will of Benjamin Hammond of Rochester, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1758) *

In the Name of God Amen I Benjamin Hammond of Rochester In the County of Plymouth in New England Yeoman under Bodely Infermities but in the Exersise of My Reason Through Gods goodness Do make this my last will & Testament and first I Desire To Give my whole Selfe Sole & body to god In Jesus Criste humbly beging his mercifull acceptance the pardon of my many sins free & Reconsilation with god through the great Sacrifise that was Given for the Remesion of Sins. As Touching my outward Estate my will is that my True & Loving wife Priscilla be honourably Supported at Equal Cost Betwen my two Sons Nathaniel & Enoch and to Live with that Child She likes Best So long as She Shall be unmarried which Support Shall be Determined by Endifferent men So often as it may Alter in Curcumstances that Sum To be Paid at least once a quarter In Speice Such as may be needful for her Support to which my will is that my Two Sons Shall ad a fifth Part of that Same to be Paid in monny to their mother to be at hir Dispose – I Give To my Son Nathaniel al my land that was formerly Peter olevers also about Thirty acres of Land lying at the Springs the East Side of the harbor Reffering to the Records for bounds with half Ram Island in Partnership with the Heirs of Capt. Benjamin Hammond Late of Rochester Deceased Also my meddow Lying in ansowomick neck and the Island of land in Said meddow and the one half of all my Sederswamp

I give To My Son Enoch My Dwelling House Excepting my great Roome and a Privelige in the Seler garret & oven I give To my wife and Daughter So long as they Live unmarred also I give To my Son Enoch home stead land and Salt meddow and all the buldings Standing on the Same also all my meddow and land by Barzilla Hammonds Island That I bought of Constant Dexter and laid out Excepting my land on which the warehouse now Stands that I Give To Enoch my Land where the ware house now Stands with my Part of the ware hous Bote Sain warps Cash &c In Codsiration of Eight Pounds that I owe him if he Sees Caus to Except of it for Said Monny if he Dont Except of it I give To my Son Nathl and my Son Enoch for To bring in his Debt to be Paid by my Estate &c

Also I give To my Son Enoch half my Sedar Swamp and my fourth part of the Saw mill and my Third part of the Grist mill with the Appurtances their unto belonging I Give To my Daughter Ruth fourteen Pounds to be Paid by my Son Nathaniel one half in a year after My Decease and the other half a year after that uppon his Performing Said Payment he is To have a note given up To him of twenty Pounds which I have on him

I Give To my Daughter Hannah fourteen Pounds to be Paid by my Son Enoch the one half in a year after my Deceas and the other half in a year after that – and I give To my Daughter Ruth teen good Store Sheep

Whereas I have Seventeen Acres & forty Rods Land Laid out March ye 5th. 1749/50 also Thirty Seven acres & Eight Rods laid out July the 12th 1755 also twenty acres Laid out Aprl. 25h. 1752 Allso nineteen acres and one halfe laid out March 5th. 1749/50 the Land in these Surveys I give To my Daughters Ruth & Hannah to be Equally Devided betwen them. I Give To Enoch one fourth of John Coten then from the forty Eigh acre Devision and all my other Lands not Disposed of before mentiond both Devided & undevided also I give To Enoch my Silver buckles & buttons &c

And all my wearing apperril to be Devided between my two Sons as my wife Thinks Proper all my out Dore movebles & Stok Except the aforesaid 10 Sheep I gave To Ruth I Assign To Pay my Just Debts Funaral Charges & Setlement of my Estate To be Paid by my Executors &c. If that Dont Pay my Debts and Charges &c Then my Executor to Sel land out of the above sd. four Surveys where She Shall Think best for To Pay the Remainder any Thing To the Contrary Afore herein Expresed not with standing Allso that my Two Sons Nathl. & Enoch Shall have no Right to any Estate that fel to my wife by her father but if they will Clame a Right In said Estate with out Consent of My wife then they To Pay as much out of my Estate to my two Daughters also is a Excepted that my Son Nathl have Liberty to Saw boards & Timber in my Quarter Part of the Saw mill for his own use without Cost for his bulding Nathl. To Keep the mill In Repair while he Doth it and also that he have Right To worke in all my Right of Second lot of Ceder Swamp for the bulding of his house for Shingle Clabords winda frames and laths for his one use &c

And I Do hereby Constitute my Loving wife Priscilla to be my Executor of this my Last will & Testament In witness where of I have here unto Set my hand and Seal this first Day of July AD 1758

Signead Sealed & Pronounced

In Presence of                                                                                                                      Benjamin Hammond                       (seal)

John Hammond

Aron Barlow

Roger Hammond

 

Presented for probate on 12 Oct. 1758 by the Excx. and proved by John Hammond and Aaron Barlow, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Priscilla Hammond of Rochester widdow Executrix on 12 Oct. 1759.

 

* Transcribed with difficulty by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 15, p. 233-236, from FHL microfilm #0551543.

 

 

Abstract of the Will of Enoch Hammond of Rochester, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1797) *

Will of Enoch Hammond, of Rochester, Esqr., dated 20 Apr. 1797, “being at this time infirm of body,” mentions:

To my true & loving wife Drusilla, the whole improvement of my homestead farm & the buildings, my lot of salt meadow, my third of a grist mill, one third of the saw mill, and my two Pews in the meeting house, while she remains my widow, also my silver watch, my gold buttons, my side saddle, and at her disposal all my indoor moveables or houshold furniture, and all my personal stock of cattle, horses, sheep & swine, and one third of the money I may leave on hand or due to me by bonds, notes, or book accounts, after my Executors have paid all my just debts & funeral charges.

To my son Benjamin all the land & meadow I bought of Capt. Jabez Hammond with the house & barn, and a part of the remaining homestead, bounded… Also my salt meadow & island in it on both sides of north cross way, also one half of the salt meadow I bought of Joseph Wilbur, also one half of all my cedar swamp, also about 25 acres of swampy land at the head of Perry’s swamp, also about 15 acres of land near the long cedar swamp by the land of Simeon Randall, also one half of two sevays of land laid out to me at the south end of spring swamp, also the beach on the west side at the mouth of Mattapoiset River, also one half my saw mill, also the privilege of grinding their meal in my grist mill during the lives of himself & his present wife Elisabeth, also one half of my two Pews in the meeting house, also my log chain & one half of all my husbandry utensills or tools, & one half of my horse tackling, also one third of the profits of all my orchard for 10 years, one maple desk, one mahogany desk that stands in my great room after his mother has done with it, also my great bible after his mother has done with it, one half of my books, all my navigation books, and one half of my wearing apparell.

To my son Thomas one mahogany desk which he has in his possession, also a note of hand I have on him for money I lent him, also one Kings arm gun which he has at this time, also $10 to be paid in one year after my decease.

To my son Nathaniel all the remainder of my homestead which I have not given to my son Benjamin, bounded…, with the profits of one third of the orchard, my third of the grist mill after his mother’s decease, one half of my saw mill, one half of the salt meadow I bought of Joseph Wilbur, about 30 acres of swamp & land which was laid out to him, Capt. Nathaniel Hammond & Ebenezer Mead, also one half of two Seveys laid out to me at the south end of Spring swamp, also about 10 acres of land laid out to me near the northwest part of Perry’s swamp, also all my right in the undivided yet to lay, also one half of all my cedar swamp, one half of my wearing cloaths, my Love’s Art of Surveying with all my Surveying tools, one half of the Naval History & one half a Lisbon Hone, these two in partnership with Capt. Nathaniel Hammond, also one mahogany desk which stands in my west room, also one half my two Pews in the meeting house, one half my husbandry tools, one third of the profits of all my orchard, one half of my books, and one third of all the money or dues to my estate, after paying my just debts & funeral charges.

To my beloved wife one third of the profits of all my orchard.

To my son Benjamin my half of all the farm he & I bought together of Seth Morton & Seth Morton junr.

All the rest of my estate to Benjamin & Nathaniel to be equally divided.

Executors to be my two sons Benjamin & Nathaniel Hammond.

Witnesses:                                                                                                                             Enoch Hammond                      (seal)

        Joseph Davis

        Benjamin Hammond

        Joshua Snow junr.

        Abel Hows

        Ashbel Bail

 

Presented for probate on 29 Oct. 1800 by Benjamin Hammond & Nathaniel Hammond, the Executors therein named, and proved by Joshua Snow junr. & Abel Hows, two of the witnesses.

 

* Abstracted by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 37, p. 346-348, from FHL microfilm #0550719.

 

 

Will of Samuel Hammond of Rochester, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1728) *

In the Name of God, amen this twelfth day of July 1728 & in the first year of the Reign of our Lord King Georg the Second I Samuel Hammond of Rochester in the County of Plimouth in the Province of the Massachusetts Bay in New England yeoman being of a disposing Mind & memory & desireous to Set my house in order before I dye do make this my last will & Testament.

Imprimis I Give my Soul to God & body to the Ground after my decease In hopes of a glorious Resurrection & as touching such worldly Estate as it hath pleased God to bless me withall I give & dispose of the same in the following Manner & Form

Imprimis I Give & Bequeath to Mary my dearly Beloved wife all the Estate that I have both in dores & without wherever it is or may be found during her Continuing my Widdow & then after her decease to be disposed of to my Children as hereafter in my will I shall express.

Item I give to my Son Thomas besides what I have allready given him fifty acres of land & the third part of the tenn acres of Meadow that I have in the town of Wolls & twenty acres of land in Rochester not yett Layd out which land I lent to my Brother Nathan Hammond to be to him his heirs & assignes forever.

Item I give to my Son Jedediah fifty acres of land & the third part of the ten acre lott of fresh meadow that I have in Wolls aforesd & the half of my share of land in Rochester not yett layd out to be to him his heirs & assignes forever.

Item I give to my Son John fifty acres of land & the third part of my ten acre lot of meadow that I have in Wolls aforesd & a certain parcell of land lying to the Eastward of my homestead as it hath already bounded out to be to him to heirs & assignes forever likewise I give to my son John one half of my land & meadow lying on Briant Island

Item I give to my grandson Arcules Hammond fifty acres of lands in Wolls aforesd to him his heirs & assignes forever.

Item I give to my grandson Peter Spooner fifty acres of land lying in Wolls aforesd to him his heirs & assignes forever.

Item I give to my daughter Mariah Clark fifty acres of land in the town of Wolls aforesd to be to her her heirs & assignes forever

Item I give to my Son Samuel tenn acres of land whereon he now lives as it is bounded out already to be to him to his heirs & assigns forever

Item Give to my Son Josiah the lott of land whereon his house standeth & as it is now bounded to him togather with the meadow at the foot of it as it is bounded, & three acres of meadow in Cooks meadow & one fourth part of a share of Cod or Swamp togather with the one half of all my undevided land in Rochester & one fether bed which he hath allready in his improvement which I give to him to his heirs & assignes forever.

Likewise I also Constitute my Son Josiah Hammond & my Son John Hammond to be Joynt Executors of this my last will & Testament

Item I give to my Son Barnabas three acres of meadow in Cooks Meadow And the Remaining part of sd Meadow I give to my Son Seth togather with what I have already given him

Item I give to my grandaughter Abigall Hammond one feather bed & beding.

Item I give to my grandaugher Elizabeth Spooner fifteen Sheep when She Shall come to the age of Eaighteen years to be paid to her by my Executors out of my moveable Estate

Item I give to my grandaughter Rose Spooner fifteen Sheep to be paid to her by my Executors when She comes to the age of Eaighteen years

Item I give to my Six grandchildren Jeduthan Spooner Benjamin Spooner John Spooner Thomas Spooner Febe Spooner & mary five Shillings apeice to be paid to them by my Executors after my Decease

Item I give to my wife my best fether bed & beding to be att her dispose

Item I give to my two daughters Mariah & Jedidah all my moveable both within dores & without after my wives decease. My Will is that my Executors pay my Just debts out of the money that shall be due to me at my decease as far as that will go and the Remainder if any there be be paid out of my personal Estate And hereby revoaking & disanull all & every former Will or Wills Ratifieiong & confirming this & only this to be my last Will & Testament In Witness whereof I have hereunto my hand & Seal the day & year above written.

Signed Sealed Published Pronounced

& declared By me Samll Hammond                                                                                Samll Hammond                                (seal)

as my last will & Testament in

Presence of us

Thomas Clark

Joshua Coggeshall

Nathll Delano

 

Probated on 20 Sept. 1728, proved by Joshua Coggeshall & Nathaniel Delano.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 5, p. 475-476, from FHL microfilm #0550511.

 

 

Will of Thomas Hammond of Carver, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1827) *

                Be it remembered, that I Thomas Hammond of Carver in the County of Plymouth, State of Massachusetts, Esquire, do make, ordain, and declare this Instrument to be my last Will and Testament, revoking all others.

Imprimis. All my debts, of which there are but few, are to be punctually and speedily paid, and the legacies hereinafter bequeathed are to be discharged as soon as circumstances will permit, and in the manner hereafter directed.

Item 1st. To my beloved wife Persis Hammond, I give and bequeath all my household furniture, (except one full bed and bedding) for her entire disposal; – also the improvement of one third part of my Real Estate for the term of her natural life; (also the use of my chaise & harness.)

Item 2d. To my four sons, viz. Thomas Hammond, William Hammond, George Hammond, and Nehemiah C. Hammond, I give and bequeath all my Real Estate and personal Estate of what name or nature soever, not herein otherwise disposed of to be equally divided between them.

Item 3d To my six daughters, viz. Anna W. Shaw, wife of Earl Shaw, Betsey T. Hammond, Persis C. Hammond, Mary Hammond, Almyra Hammond, and Melissa Hammond, I give and bequeath to each the sum of Two hundred dollars to be paid by my Executor, – one half which sums shall become due in one year after my decease, the other half in three years after.

Item 4th To those of my said daughters who shall be in an unmarried state at the time of my decease, for their use and improvement while remaining unmarried I give and bequeath the use of the westerly front room in my dwelling house, and bed room in the chamber; also the privilege of using the fire-place, oven, and sink in the porch for their convenience, with the right of passing through the kitchen; Also one fifth part of the cellar, – also the free use of the well of water, and sufficient room for laying wood in the house yard.

        It is also my Will that if any of my said sons shall not live to the age of twenty one years, that his or their shares shall be equally divided between the surviving brothers. And also that if any of my said daughters shall decease while in a state of minority, that her or their said share or legacy be equally divided between the surviving sisters.          And my will is, that whatever sums shall be found charged on my book against either of my said daughters for expense for extra schooling, for furniture, or any other matters, shall be considered as so much paid towards the said Two hundred dollars.

Lastly, And I do hereby appoint my oldest son Thomas Hammond to be sole Executor of this my last Will.           In witness of all and each of the things herein contained I have hereunto set my hand and seal this twenty-first day of May in the year of our Lord One thousand eight hundred and twenty seven.

Signed, sealed, and declared by the

aforenamed Thomas Hammond to be                                                                             Thomas Hammond                          (seal)

his last Will and Testament in pres-

ence of us, who, in the presence of the testator, and of each other, have hereunto subscribed our names as witnesses.

        John Thomas

        Wm. Thomas

        Rosseter Cotton

 

Presented for probate on 17 Dec. 1827, and proved by John Thomas and Rosseter Cotton, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Thomas Hammond, yeoman, the Executor, on 17 Dec. 1827.

 

Capt. Samuel Shaw, Ezra Thompson, and Jonathan Atwood, all of Carver, were appointed to appraise the Estate of Thomas Hammond, late of Carver, Esquire, on 17 Dec. 1827. The Inventory of the Estate of Thomas Hammond Esqr., late of Carver, dated 15 Apr. 1828, totaled $6907.42, including his real estate valued at $5490.16. Thomas Hammond, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 19 May 1828.

 

Samuel Shaw, Ezra Thompson, and Jonathan Atwood, all of Carver and all Freeholders, were appointed to set off to Persis Hammond, the widow of Thomas Hammond, one third part of the Real Estate of her late husband as her dower in the estate on 19 Jan. 1829. The division was dated 14 Feb. 1929, and approved on 16 Feb. 1829.

 

John Savery, Daniel Shaw and Alvan Vaughan, all of Carver and all Freeholders, were appointed to divide the Real Estate of Thomas Hammond, late of Carver, Esquire, among the heirs named in the deceased’s last Will and Testament, on 20 Feb. 1837. The division was dated 28 Mar. 1837, and approved on 15 May 1837, the heirs being Thomas Hammond, Nehemiah C. Hammond, William Hammond, and George W. Hammond.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 64, p. 407-409, Vol. 66, p. 107-108, Vol. 67, p. 100-102, and Vol. 79, p. 155-158.

 

 

Will of John Hanks of Duxbury, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1803) *

  In the Name of God Amen the twentieth day of October 1803 ~~

I John Hanks of Duxbury in the County of Plymouth in New England being weak in Body but of perfect Mind and Memory thanks be given unto God therefore calling unto Mind the Mortality of my Body and knowing that it is appointed for all Men once to die, do make and ordain this my Last Will and Testament that is to say principally and first of all I give & recommend my Soul into the Hands of God that gave it and my Body I recommend to the Earth to be buried in a decent christian Burial at the discretion of my Executor or Executors nothing doubting, but at the general Resurrection; I shall receive the same again by the mighty power of God and as touching such worldly Estate, wherewith it hath pleased God to bless me in this Life; I give demise & dispose of the same in the following Manner and form —

  Imprimis I give and bequeath to Abigail my Dearly beloved Wife the whole of my personal Estate after my just debts and funeral charges are paid & the whole Improvement of my real Estate so long as she remains my Widow. Item I give unto my Sister Cloe and her daughter Rube a right for them to live in the southerly End of my House. Item I give unto William Joice at my Wife’s decease twenty dollars. Item I give unto my Sister Cloe all the Real Estate after my Wife’s decease, if living, if not, to be divided equally between her Children, with her or their paying the said William Joice twenty Dollars. My Wife with Andrew Sampson whom I likewise constitute make & ordain my sole Executors of this my Last Will & Testament & I do hereby utterly disallow, revoke & disannul all & every other former Testaments, Wills, Legacies & Bequests & Executors by me in any Ways before named willed and bequeathed ratifying & confirming this & no other to be my Last Will & Testament in witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand & Seal the day & Year above written. —

Signed sealed published & pronounced & declared by

the said John Hanks as his Last Will & testament

in the presence of us the Subscribers –

                Joseph Pearce

                Nathaniel Samson                                                                                               John Hanks                                        (seal)

                Elijah Delano

 

Presented for probate on 9 April 1804 by Abigail Hanks and Andrew Samson, the Executors therein named, and proved by Joseph Pearce and Nathaniel Samson, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Abigail Hanks and Andrew Samson, the before named Executors.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 40, p. 24-25, from FHL microfilm #0550901.

 

 

Will of Deborah Harden of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1830) *

    I Deborah Harden of Bridgewater in the County of Plymouth, Single woman being weak in body but sound in mind & memory considering the shortness of human life and the certainty of death, do make this my last Will & Testament Viz: first of all I recommend my Soul to God who gave it, my body to the earth to be buried in a decent manner by my Executor hereafter named & as to my Worldly estate I dispose of it in manner following that is to say,

    Imprimis I give to my Nephew Cyrus Benson eighty three cents.

    I give to my Nephew Jonathan Benson eighty three cents.

    I give to my niece Betsey Benson eighty three cents.

    I give to my niece Nabby Jones wife of Samuel Jones eighty three cents to be paid to them in one year after my decease by my Executor.

    I give & bequeath to the daughters of Jonathan Harden and to the daughters of John Harden all my wearing apparel & household furniture except one third to my sister Molly.

    I give unto my sister Molly Harden Twenty dollars to paid in one year after my decease and also one third of my furniture.

    Providing there should be that balance after my just debts are paid and my estate settled and all the rest of my estate both real and personal, money and notes of hand I give unto John Harden with whom I now live to him and his heirs forever.

    And I do hereby constitute & appoint Thomas Cushman Sole Executor to this my last Will & Testament.

                In witness whereof I have here unto set my hand & seal this sixth day of March in the Year of Our Lord eighteen hundred and thirty.

                                                                                                                                                                her

                                                                                                                                                Deborah  X  Harden                            (seal)

                                                                                                                                                                mark

Signed, sealed, published & declared to be the last Will of the Testator in presence of us who at her request have signed our names as Witnesses

    Samuel Allen

    Hiram Dunphe

    Lot Whitmarsh

 

Presented for probate on 1 Apr. 1834, and proved by Hiram Dunphe and Lot Whitmarsh, two of the subscribing witnesses. Thomas Cushman, of Bridgewater, Yeoman, was granted administration of the estate of Deborah Harden on 1 Apr. 1834.

No inventory of her estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 76, p. 108-110, from FHL microfilm #0555263.

 

 

Will of Mary Harden of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1827) *

                In the name of God, Amen: I, Mary Harden of Bridgewater in the County of Plymouth, being advanced in life, and taking into consideration the uncertainty of life, do make & ordain this my last Will & Testament and dispose of my worldly estate, in manner & form following, namely ~

          First. I give & bequeath unto Mira Mitchell, Caroline Mitchell & Louisa Mitchell, Daughters of Major Theodore Mitchell ten dollars each out of the note I hold against Major Mitchell, & the remainder of the note to Major Theodore Mitchell.

          2d. I give & bequeath unto Hannah Pope the amount of a note I hold against Benjn Pope Esqer.

          3d. I give & bequeath unto Abigail Jones, the wife of Samuel Jones, all my wearing Apparel.

          4th. I give & bequeath unto the wife of Jonathan Harden of Halifax my bed & bedding.

          5th. I give & bequeath unto Loisa Mitchell daughter of Major Mitchell, one red chest.

                I also give & bequeath the remainder of my household furniture to Abigail Jones, the wife of Samuel Jones.

                I lastly give & bequeath unto Betsey Jones, the daughter of Samuel Jones, my Gold neck-lace.

                I do hereby appoint Mr Thomas Cushman of Bridgewater, to be sole Executor of this my last Will & Testament.

                In Testimony Whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and seal, this thirty first day of May, in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred & twenty seven.

                                                                                                                                                Mary Harden                                    (seal)

                Signed, sealed, published, pronounced & declared, before us

                Caleb Mitchell

                Benjamin P. Pope

                Silvanus Pratt.

 

The Instrument purporting to be the last Will & Testament of Mary Harden late of Bridgewater, Singlewoman, was presented for probate on 7 July 1835, and proved by Caleb Mitchell and Benjamin P. Pope, two of the subscribing witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Thomas Cushman of Bridgewater, Yeoman, on 7 July 1835.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Mary Harden, late of Bridgewater, Singlewoman, was appraised on 16 July 1835 by Benjamin P. Pope, Melzar Hudson and Winslow Mitchell, and totaled $84.65, which included a dwelling house valued at $40, plus a note against Benjamin Pope for $32.47, and a note against Theodore & Winslow Mitchell for $632.55. Thomas Cushman, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 6 Oct. 1835.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 77, pp. 366-368, 448-449, from FHL microfilm #0555264.

 

 

Will of John Hardin of Bridgewater, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1718) *

In the Name of God Amen. I John Harden of Bridgwater in the County of Plymouth in New England Yeoman being under Infirmitys of body but of perfect mind & Memory (thanks be to God for the Same) and Considering the Uncertaintys of Life Do Make & Appoint this my last Will and Testament in Manner & form following) Viz. In the first Place I do Give & Bequeath my soul to God that gave it & my body to the dust to be buried in a Christian like and decent manner, and as Touching that Small Estate which it hath pleased God to Bless me withall I do dispose in manner as followeth.  Imprs. I Give & Bequeath to Dear & well beloved wife Hannah Hardin all that my farm or Homestead, in Bridgwater during her Life and after her decease I give the said Homestead to my beloved son Samuel Hardin. And I do hereby order my sd. Son Samuel Hardin to pay to son Nathaniel Hardin A Legacie of Ten pounds in Good pay at the decease of my Sd. wife. Item I Give and Bequeath to my Son John Hardin all my Right and Title to or in that Tract of Land whereon my sd son Liveth  —

Item I do give to my daughter Sarah Wood fourty shillings to be paid her by my sd. Son Samuel Hardin after his Mothers decease. Item I do Give to my son Peter Harden five pounds to be paid in Good pay soon after his mothers decease by my sd Son Samuel. Item I do Give all my movables both within doors & without to be divided amongst my daughters in a Just & Equall manner after my sd. wifes decease. And further I do hereby Constitute and appoint my sd. wife to be My Executrix & my sd. Son Samuel to be my Executor to Execute this my Last Will & Testmt. In Testimony whereof I have hereunto Set my hand and Seal this Seventeenth day of May Anno Dom one Thousand seven hundred & eighteen 1718/.

Signed Sealed & delivered In ye presence of                                                                           his

James Barker                                                                                                                        John   *  Hardin                                   (seal)

Hannah Barker                                                                                                                            mark

Francis Barker

 

Probated on 2 Nov. 1719, and proved by Francis Barker and Hannah Barker. Letters of Administration granted to Hannah Hardin his relict widdow and John Hardin his Son Executors therein named.

 

The Inventory of the moveable goods of John Hardin, late of Bridgwater, was appraised on 28 Oct. 1719, and not totaled, but small. Hannah Hardin and Samuel Hardin, the Executors, gave their oath to the inventory on 2 Nov. 1719.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 4, p. 191-192, from FHL microfilm #0550510.

 

 

Will of Barnabas Harlow of Plympton, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1796) *

In the name of God Amen—I Barnabas Harlow being thro’ the abundant mercy & goodness of God, tho’ weak in body yet of a sound and perfect understanding and memory do constitute this my last will & testament, and desire it my be recieved by all as such. First I most humbly bequeath my soul to God my maker, beseeching his most gracious acceptance of it, through the all sufficient merits & mediation of my most compassionate redeemer Jesus Christ, who gave himself to be an atonement for my sins, and is able to save to the uttermost, all that come unto God by him, seeing he ever liveth to make intercession for them, and who I trust will not reject me a returning penitent sinner, when I come to him for mercy, In the hope & confidence I render up my soul with comfort, humbly beseeching ye most blessed & gracious God, to prepare me for the time of my dissolution, and then to take me to himself in that peace & rest & incomparable felicity which he has prepared for all that love & fear his holy name. amen, blessed be God. I Give my body to the earth from whence it was taken, in full assurance of its resurrection from thence at the last day. As for my burial, I desire it may be decent, without pomp or state, at ye discretion of my dear wife, and my Executor hereafter named, who, I doubt not will manage it, with all requisite prudence. As to my worldly Estate, I will and positively order, that all my debts be paid -

First—I Give to my dear and loving wife, for the term of her remaining my widow, this house wherein I now dwell, with all the furniture and the lands & tenements that lie about it, with all my other lands and improvements elsewhere, and, after her marriage or death, I give the whole of my said Estate to my three Daughters Drusilla, Polly & Toa [Joa?], to be equally divided between them, and do constitute my dear & loving wife, Executrix of this my last will & testament & trustee of my children—In witness whereof I have hereunto Set my hand and Seal the thirtieth day of May, in the year of our Lord 1796

        Witnesses                                                                                                                      Barnabas Harlow            (seal)

Seth Cushing

Thomas Gannett

Isaac Bartlett

 

The last will & testament of Barnabas Harlow, late of Plymton, yeoman, deceased, was presented for probate on 1 Aug. 1796 by Mary Harlow, the Executrix therein named, and was proved by Seth Cushing & Isaac Bartlett, two of the witnesses.

 

Seth Cushing Esqr, Thos Gannett Gentleman, & Isaac Churchill, yeoman, all of Plymton, were appointed to appraise the estate of Barnabas Harlow, late of Plymton, yeoman, on 1 Aug. 1796. The inventory of the Estate of Barnabas Harlow, late of Plymton, dated 7 Nov. 1796, totaled $1585.23, including his homestead farm, building & stuff for buildings, was valued at $820, a piece of fresh meadow at $167, a piece of Turkey Swamp at $13, and $284 in livestock. Mary Harlow, the Executrix, gave her oath to the inventory on 7 Nov. 1796.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 35, pp. 538, 575-576, from FHL microfilm #0550718.

 

 

Will of Benjamin Harlow of Middleborough, Plymouth County, Massachusetts Bay (1779) *

                                                In the name of God Amen

I Benjamin Harlow of Middleborough in the county of Plymouth Shoemaker being infirm in body, but of sound and disposing mind and memory, do make and ordain this my Last will and testament in order following vizt – I Give and Recommend my soul into the hand of Almighty God, that Gave it and my body I Recommend to the Earth to be decently Interred at the discretion of my Executrix, and touching such worldly Estate which it hath pleased God to bless me with I will and bequeath in the following manner & form

1st I will & bequeath to my dearly beloved wife Elisabeth the Improvement of my Estate vizt of all my Lands, with the buildings thereon & the personal Estate & out door moveables, together with all my household Goods Debts & moveable affairs to be freely possessed and Enjoyed by the abovesaid Elisabeth during her natural Life

Secondly—after the death of the above named Elisabeth Harlow I will that my Estate as above mentioned be equally divided between my two daughters vizt, Kesia Atwood & Phebe Shurtliff

3dly I will that all my Lawful Debts be paid at the Expence of my Executrix hereafter named

Lastly—I do make and Constitute Elisabeth my said wife Executrix of this my Last will and Testament. In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and Seal this Fifteenth day of May One thousand seven hundred and seventy nine

Signed, Sealed, Published & pronounced by                                                                 Benjamin Harlow                            (seal)

the said Benjamin Harlow as his Last will

& testament in the presence of us who in his

presence & in the presence of each other have

have hereunto subscribed our names –

                Neheh. Cobb

                Edward Cole

Elisabeth  X  Cole

 

Presented for probate on 1 Nov. 1779 by Elisabeth Harlow, the Executrix therein named, and proved by Nehemiah Cobb and Edward Cole, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Elisabeth Harlow, the before named Executrix.

 

Nehemiah Cobb of Plymton Gent., Ebenezer Briggs of Middlebo yeoman, and Edward Cole of Middlebo yeoman were appointed to appraise the estate of Benjamin Harlow, late of Middlebo yeoman, on 1 Nov. 1779. The Inventory of the Estate of Benjamin Harlow, late of Middleborough, dated 22 Nov. 1779, totaled £115.4.4, including his land and buildings with the appurtenances valued at £80. Elisabeth Harlow, the Executrix, gave her oath to the inventory on 3 July 1780.

 

*  Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 25, pp. 386-387, 534-535, from FHL microfilm #0550713

 

 

Will of Gideon Harlow of Duxbury, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1853) *

        In the name of God, Amen. I Gideon Harlow of Duxbury in the County of Plymouth & Commonwealth of Massachusetts, yeoman, considering the uncertainty of this life & being of sound disposing mind and memory, do make and publish this as my last Will and Testament, hereby revoking all former wills by me at any time heretofore made.

        And as to my worldly estate, and all the property real, personal or mixed of which I shall die seized and possessed, or to which I shall be entitled at the time of my decease, I devise bequeath and dispose thereof in manner following, to wit;

First.  My will is that all my just debts and funeral charges shall be paid by my Executor herein after named out of my estate as soon after my decease as by him shall be found convenient.

Second.  I give and bequeath unto my daughter Hannah Sampson wife of Calvin C. Sampson, the sum of Fifteen Hundred Dollars, to be safely invested by sd. Calvin C. Sampson in Bank Stock, Rail Road Stock, or put at interest, and in case she shall not need the same, it is my Will that both the principal and interest shall be equally divided among their children, and be paid to them at such times as said Calvin C. shall deem proper and expedient ~ the above named sum being said Hannah’s share in my estate, and on the receipt of which said Hannah or heirs are expected to relinquish all right she might have had in the Delano Wood-lot, Brant Rock pasture, a piece of Salt Marsh at Consider’s point and a piece of Salt Marsh in South River.

Third. I give and bequeath unto my son John A. Harlow all my Farming tools of every description, two cows and one yoke of oxen, as his full share in all my estate, with what he has received previous to this, on the receipt of which said John A. relinquish all right he or his heirs might have had in the Delano Wood lot, Brant Rock pasture & a piece of Salt Marsh at Consider’s Point & piece of Salt Marsh in South River Marsh.

Fourth. I give and devise unto my two sons Henry Harlow & Gideon T. Harlow their heirs & assigns, my Keen Wood lot, so called, situated in sd. Duxbury containing twenty acres more or less and my Wood lot situated nigh Briggs Cushman’s in said Duxbury containing four acres more or less, to be equally divided between them.

Fifth.  I give and devise unto my three daughters Lydia Harlow, Mary Harlow, & Olive T. Harlow their heirs and assigns, my two dwelling houses situated in said Duxbury, one of which is now occupied by Benj. Boylston & Amasa C. Witherell & the other by Mason Simmons with the lots of land adjoining them and the Horse-pasture so called, situated nigh Isaac Chandler’s also my Delano Wood-lot situated in sd. Duxbury nigh the land of Jesse Delano, containing nine acres more or less, Also my Nathaniel C. Weston land, situated in said Duxbury, containing twelve acres more or less, that I purchased of Benj. Alden Administrator & also three acres of Wood-land more or less situated in sd. Duxbury, near Judah Peterson called the Sprague Lot.

Sixth.  All the rest residue and remainder of my Real Estate, with all the rest & residue of my Personal Estate, the Real Estate consisting of Branches Island, Salt Meadow &c. &c. or any other that may be found, I give, devise & bequeath unto my sd. sons Henry Harlow, Gideon T. Harlow and unto my said daughters Lydia Harlow, Mary Harlow & Olive T. Harlow their heirs and assigns to be equally divided among them.

  Lastly. I hereby appoint my said son Henry Harlow sole Executor of this my last Will and Testament.

  In testimony whereof I hereunto set my hand and seal & publish & declare this to be my last Will & Testament in the presence of the witnesses named below this sixteenth day of August in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and fifty three.

                                                                                                                                                Gideon Harlow                                (seal)

        Signed, sealed, published and declared by the said Gideon Harlow as and for his last Will & Testament in presence of us, & in the presence of each other, and in his presence and at his request, have subscribed our names as Witnesses hereto.

                Benj. Alden

                Martha C. Alden

                Rebecca S. Alden

 

Presented for probate on the first Monday of Dec. 1853 by Henry Harlow, the Executor therein named, and proved by Benjamin Alden and Martha C. Alden, two of the Witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters Testamentary were granted to Henry Harlow, the Executor therein named.

 

Henry Harlow, of Duxbury, was granted Letters Testamentary on the Estate of Gideon Harlow, late of Duxbury, yeoman, on 5 Dec. 1853, with Seth Sprague and Benjamin Alden, both of Duxbury, as sureties.

Benj. Alden, of Duxbury, Eleazer Harlow and Seth Weston, of Marshfield, were appointed to appraise the estate of Gideon Harlow, late of Marshfield, on 27 Dec. 1853.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Gideon Harlow, late of Duxbury, yeoman, dated 20 Jan. 1854, totaled $10,871.95, including his real estate valued at $5609, and stock, notes of hand, and cash on hand. Henry Harlow, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on the third Monday of Feb. 1854.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 95, p. 556-558, from FHL microfilm #0555642, Vol. 2H, p. 400, and Vol. 96, p. 37-38.

 

 

Will of Isaac Harlow 2d of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1805) *

In the name of God amen I, Isaac Harlow the second of that name in the Town of Bridgwater in the County of Plymouth yeoman this seventeenth day of August, Eighteen hundred and five being in a sound disposing mind & memory, blessed be God therefor & calling to mind the mortality of my Body & knowing it is appointed for all men to die think it my duty to settle my worldly Estate before the day of my death. First of all I commit my Soul to God who gave it & my Body to the Earth to be decently buried & the worldly Estate which I may leave I give & dispose of as follows — viz —

   I give to my Wife Susanna all my Real Estate of Lands & Buildings to dispose of as she sees fit I give my Wife Susanna all my personal Estate to dispose of as she sees fit, also all my household Furniture & indoor moveables to dispose of as she sees fit, also all my stock of Cattle & Horse & all my farming utensils also all the property I die seized of after paying my honest debts – And I do hereby appoint my Wife Susanna sole Executrix to this my Will, she to receive my Credits & pay my debts, & I do hereby revoke all other wills by me made & make them void ratifying this & only this to be my last Will & Testament Testament in Witness whereof I do hereby or hereunto set my hand & Seal the day & year here before written —

signed sealed pronounced & delivered

by the aforesaid Isaac Harlow the second to be

his last will & Testament in presence of us

  Avery Fobes                                                                                                                       Isaac Harlow                                    (seal)

  Isaac Hooper

  Christopher Flinn

 

Presented for probate on 3 Feb. 1806 by Susanna Harlow, the Executrix therein named, and proved by Avery Fobes, Isaac Hooper and Christopher Flinn, all the Witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Susanna Harlow, the before named Executrix.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 40, p. 394, from FHL microfilm #0550901.

 

 

Will of Isaac Harlow of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1827) *

                Be it remembered, that I, Isaac Harlow of Bridgewater in the County of Plymouth & Commonwealth of Massachusetts, yeoman, being weak in the body, but of sound mind & memory, do, this sixth day of January Anno Domini One thousand eight hundred & twenty seven, make and publish this my last Will and Testament, in manner following, that is to say,

Imprimis, I give to my beloved wife after my decease, the improvement of all my real Estate so long as she remains my widow, and also all my personal estate, to be at her own disposal with advising with my Executor herein after named.

   Item, I likewise give to Polly Harlow, (the wife of my son Silvanus) fifty dollars after my wife’s decease, and all the property both real and personal, then remaining shall be divided into five equal shares, one fifth part to each heir; and that the one fifth part given to the heirs of my son Joseph shall be equally divided between Sally Harlow (widow of the said Joseph deceased) and her two sons.     And lastly I do constitute & ordain my son Bradford sole Executor of this my last Will & Testament

   In testimony whereof I do hereunto set my hand and seal, the day and year above written.

   Sign’d, seal’d, publish’d,

   pronounce'd, & declar’d by                                                                                            Isaac Harlow                                    (seal)

   the said Isaac Harlow as

   & for his last Will & Testament, in the presence of us, who at his

   request and in his presence hereunto set our names as witnesses

   to the same.                                                                                                                       Benjn. Leonard

                                                                                                                                                Saml. Jones

                                                                                                                                                Nabby Jones

 

Presented for probate on 1 May 1827 by Bradford Harlow, the Executor therein named, and proved by Benjamin Leonard and Samuel Jones, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Bradford Harlow, the before named Executor.

 

Thomas Covington and Stephen Harlow, of Middleborough, and Solomon Leonard, of Bridgewater, were appointed to appraise the Estate of Isaac Harlow, late of Bridgewater, on 16 Nov. 1829. The Inventory of the Estate of Isaac Harlow, late of Bridgewater, was appraised on 18 Nov. 1829, and totaled $3684.88, including his homestead in Bridgewater containing about 95 acres with the buildings valued at $2426. Bradford Harlow, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 6 Apr. 1830.

 

Thomas Covington and Stephen Harlow, of Middleborough, and Ebenezer Pratt, of Bridgewater, were appointed to divide the Real Estate of Isaac Harlow, late of Bridgewater, among his children Silvanus Harlow, Lewis Harlow, the widow and heirs of Joseph Harlow, Timothy Harlow, and Bradford Harlow, on 6 Apr. 1830. The division was approved on 25 Mar. 1831.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 64, p. 53-55, from FHL microfilm #0555258, Vol. 69, p. 120-121, and Vol. 70, p. 174-177.

 

 

Will of James Harlow of Plympton, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1759) *

In the name of God Amen the Third day of Feba. One Thousand Seven hundred & fifty nine I James Harlow of Plimton in the County of Plymouth in New England Being Sick and weak of Bodey But of Sound Disposeing mind and memory Thanks be Given to Almighty God therefore and Caling to mind the mortallity of my Body Knowing that it is appointed for all men once to Die do make And ordain this my last will and Testament and Princapally and first of all I Recommend My Sole into the hands of God that gave it hopeing & Trusting that Thro the Death & Suffering of Jesus Christ to Receive the free and full pardon of all my Sins and to Inherret glory and my body I Recommend unto the Earth to be Decently buried at the Discretion of my Executor hereafter named Beling that at the General Resurrection I Shall Receive the same again by the mighty Power of God and as Touching Such worldly Estate as it hath Plesed god to Bless me with in this Life I give & bequeth in the following manner & forme

Item I Give & bequeth unto my weel beloved wife Mehitebel for her own Disposal one third part of all my moveable Estate

Item I Give & Bequth unto my three Daughters Viz Mary Staples hannah Rickard & Perrsis Rickard there heirs & assigns for Ever thirteen pounds Six Shilling & Eight Pence unto Each of them Includeing what they have allready Received out of my Estate

Item I Give & bequeth unto my three Granchildren the Children of my Daughter Abigail Fuller Decd. thirteen pounds Six Shillings & Eight Pence to be Equally Deveded Betwen Them Includeing what my said Daughter hath already Recd out of my Estate

Item I Give & Bequeth unto my Daughter Sarah her heirs and assignes forever thirteen Pounds Six Shillings & Eight Pence

Item I Give & bequeth unto my Son Barnabas his heirs and assigns forever Thirteen Pound Six Shillings & Eight Pence To gether with one gun which was formerly his Grandfather Churchells, and also my will that the Legacies before mentiond shall be Discharged by my Executor within three years after my Decease Excepting what I have Given unto my Son Barnabas which my will is that he shall Receive the same when he shall arrive To the age of Twenty one years

And also My will is that the Several Legasies before mentiond Excepting what is Given my Son Barnabas shall be discharged and Paid. In houshold Goods at Cash Prise and what my moveable Estate falls short of Paying the aforesaid Legacyes and all my Just Debts my will is that my three Sons Viz. James William & Abner shall & Pay and Disch the Same in Equal Portion Between them out of the Estate what I have allreadey Given them by Deed

Lastly I do Constitute my aforesaid Son James Harlow to be my Sole Executor on this my Last will & Testament and do by these Presets Renounce all other wills Before by me maid Ratefiing & Confirming this & no other to be my last will & Testament in Testimony whereof I have Signed & Sealed the Day & year above Mentiond

Signd Sealed Published & Pronounced and

Declared by the sd James harlow to

be his Last will & Testament in                                                                                        his

the Presence of us                                                                                                    James  X  Harlow            (seal)

Josiah Perkins                                                                                                                       Marke

Isaac Bowles

Willm. Cushman

 

Probated on 26 Apr. 1759, and proved by Josiah Perkins and Isaac Bowles, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration granted to James Harlow of Plimtown, Laborer, the Executor.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 15, p. 282-284.

 

 

Will of Capt. Jesse Harlow of Plymouth, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1806) *

In the Name of God amen. I Jesse Harlow of Plymouth in the County of Plymouth Merchant, being of soud Mind & Memory but considering the Uncertainty of Life, do make this my last Will and Testament. After recommending my Soul to its infinitely benevolent creator trusting in the redemption of Jesus Christ for its immortal Happiness beyond the Grave I dispose of my Estate in Manner following. —

        Imprimis. I give and devise to my beloved Wife Sarah Harlow in lieu of her dower in my Estate, the Improvement of one third part of my real Estate, during the Term of her natural Life—I also give to my said Wife the Sum of four hundred Dollars to be paid her annually during the term of her natural Life, commencing from the time of my decease, the same to be paid by my Executors hereafter named.

        Item I give and devise to my Daughter Betsy Torrey, the use & Improvement of the south westerly Chamber of my dwelling house, with the bed room & Buttery adjoining thereto, with the privilege of washing and baking in the Kitchen, & of using the Water in the Well, and an ample sufficiency of fuel, to support her fire, to be delivered at her door. I also give to my said Daughter, three hundred Dollars, to be paid her annually during the Term of her natural Life, commencing from the time of my decease, the same to be paid by my Executors thereafter named.  I make this kind of provision for my said Daughter, on account of her peculiar situation, believing it will be enough for her comfortable maintenance & support; but if from any unforeseen causes, it should prove otherwise, I solemnly enjoin it upon my Grandchildren & Great Grandchild, or either of them to take especial Care that my said Daughter be furnished with every think necessary to make her Life comfortable & happy —

        Item I give and devise to my Grand Children John Torrey jun. & Jesse Harlow Torrey and my Great Grandchild William Harlow, son of my deceased Granddaughter Betsy H. Harlow all the rest & residue of my Estate both real & personal, of what name or nature soever, in equal proportions, they to furnish my said Daughter with her fuel as aforesaid, and my Will further is, that if either of them should die before he reaches the age of twenty one Years his share should accrue to the Survivor or Survivors of him or them —

        Item I constitute & appoint Capt. Robert Roberts & Capt. Ezra Harlow junr. Executors of this my last Will and Testament & my Will is, that my said Executors be Trustees of a fund for the purpose of paying to my said Wife & Daughter their respective annuities, to wit to my said Wife the aforesaid Sum of four hundred dollars, yearly & every year, & to my said Daughter the aforesaid Sum of three hundred dollars Yearly & every Year, and to enable my said Executors to perform this trust, I hereby order & direct that they take from my personal Estate the Sum of twelve thousand dollars & place the same Sum in some safe private Securities, or in some substantial public Funds, according to their best Judgment & discretion, so that the Interest arising therefrom shall produce the Sum of seven Hundred Dollars per annum, four hundred Dollars of which said Sum, my said Executors are directed to pay to my said Wife annually, and the remaining three hundred Dollars to my said Daughter annually, in Manner as aforesaid, and my further will is, that on the death of my said Wife, the Sum of seven thousand Dollars, part of the aforesaid Sum of twelve thousand Dollars, with the Interest that may be due thereon shall be paid to my said Grand Children John Torrey junr. & Jesse Harlow Torrey & my Great-grandchild William Harlow in equal Shares as they shall severally become of Age, & in case of either of their Deaths to the Survivors or Survivor of them, and on the Death of my said Daughter, the Sum of five thousand Dollars, part of the aforesaid Sum of twelve thousand Dollars with the Interest, that may become due thereon, shall be paid in equal shares to my said Grandchildren and Great Grandchild aforesaid as they shall become of Age as aforesaid. —

        Lastly I hereby revoke all former & other Will by me at any time heretofore made, & declare this only to be my last Will & Testament. —

        In Testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand & Seal this twenty seventh day of December in the Year of our Lord 1806 —

Signed, sealed, published, pronounced & declared by

the said Jesse Harlow to be his last   and Testament

in the presence of us, who at his request & in his pres-

ence subscribed as witnesses—                                                                                         Jesse Harlow                    (seal)

        Eliphalet Holbrook

        Jona. Tufts

        Joshua Thomas

 

Presented for probate on 22 Sept. 1809 by Robert Roberts, one of the Executors therein named, and proved by Jonathan Tufts, one of the witnesses. Letters Testamentary were granted to Robert Roberts and Ezra Harlow junr.

 

Eliphalet Holbrook, Ichabod Morton junr., and William Holmes, all of Plymouth were appointed to appraise the Estate of Jesse Harlow, late of Plymouth Merchant, on 22 Sept. 1809. The Inventory of the Estate of Capt. Jesse Harlow, late of Plymouth, dated 3 Dec. 1809, totaled $42,966.48, including his homestead house, store and lot valued at $3000, training green and barn valued at $1880, a Flake yard & Fish House valued at $800, and several other parcels of land and woodland, sundry promissory notes and obligations totaling $17,857.28, bank stock, and insurance. Robert Roberts and Ezra Harlow, the Executors, gave their oath to the inventory on 23 Dec. 1809.

 

Nathaniel Goodwin Esq., Capt. Richard Holmes, & Mr. Barnabas Otis, all of Plymouth, were directed to set off to Sarah Harlow, widow of Jesse Harlow, merchant, her share in his estate as per his will, on 18 Dec. 1809. The division was presented on 17 Mar. 1810, the Probate Judge recommended a revision on 9 Apr. 1810, the revision was submitted on 18 Apr. 1810, and the revised division was accepted on 23 Apr. 1810.

 

William Sampson and John Dexter, yeomen, and Ebenezer Lothrop junr., Housewright, all of Barnstable, were appointed to appraise the Real Estate with the Salt Works of Jesse Harlow, late of Plymouth, that lies in the County of Barnstable on 23 Dec. 1809. The Real Estate in Barnstable County, dated 1 Jan. 1810, totaled $12,262.13. Robert Roberts and Ezra Harlow, the Executors, gave their oath to the inventory on 14 May 1810.

 

Mr. Nathaniel Spooner, guardian to Jesse H. Torrey, a minor son of the devisee of Capt. Jesse Harlow, late of Plymouth, made an appeal concerning the assignment of 1/3 part of his estate to his widow, Sarah Harlow, on 11 May 1810. The appeal, recorded 18 May 1810, purported that the part set off to the widow Sarah Harlow was more than 1/3 full part because they figured only the actual value of the real estate, not the rental profits from it, and because much of the rest of the estate of Jesse Harlow was unproductive, while the part set off to the widow Sarah Harlow was productive.

 

Joseph Bartlett 3d, Merchant, Rosseter Cotton Esquire, and Nathaniel Spooner, Merchant, of Plymouth, were appointed to divide the Real Estate of Jesse Harlow, late of Plymouth, Merchant, except that part which has been assigned to his Widow Sarah Harlow, and divide it into three equal parts or shares and assign one part each to John Torrey junr. and Jesse Harlow Torrey, Grandchildren, and to William Harlow, Great Grandchild, of the said deceased, on 8 Jan. 1811. The division was dated 4 Mar. 1811.

 

Ebenezer Bacon, Ebenezer Lothrop Esq., and Thomas Sturgis, Gentlemen, all of Barnstable, were appointed to appraise and set off to the widow Sarah Harlow a 1/3 part of the estate of Jesse Harlow in Barnstable County on 20 Mar. 1811. They gave their oath of 23 Mar. 1811, and the division was recorded 10 June 1811.

 

The account of Robert Roberts and Ezra Harlow junr, executors of the will of Capt. Jesse Harlow, deceased, dated 7 Aug. 1811. Value of the remaining estate was $35,325.06, which included promisory notes & stocks, produce, etc., and mentioned an annuity being paid to the widow Sarah Harlow, payments to Nathl Spooner, guardian for Jesse H. Torrey, payments to John Harlow, guardian for Wm. Harlow, and payments to Joseph Barlett 3d, guardian for John Torrey junr.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 43, pp. 26-27, 80, 177-179, 198, 301-302, 478-482, 523-525, all from FHL microfilm #0550902.

 

 

Will of John Harlow of Middleborough, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1814) *

In the Name of God amen. I John Harlow of Middleborough in the County of Plymouth & Commonwealth of Massachusetts Yeoman, being of a sound Mind & Memory blessed be God for the same considering the Mortality of the Body & that it is appointed unto all men once to die do make & ordain this my last Will & Testament as followeth viz —

            Item I give & bequeath to my well beloved Wife Joanna Harlow one third of the produce raised on my home farm gathered in & secured for her use & also the East great Room in my Dwelling house & the largest Bedroom & the Buttery in the Chamber & also a privilege in the Buttery below & in the Kitchen Chamber & Cellar & oven as she shall need, also Firewood ready cut suitable for the Fire also the privilege of keeping one swine at a time on said Land, also the privilege of a Horse with suitable Tackling for her to ride when she shall see cause, also I give to my said Wife, the use & Improvement of all my indoor Moveables during her natural Life excepting one Bed, which my Son Zenas now has in use. I also give her one third part of the Milk of all the Cows kept & having their support from said Land in lieu of one third of the Hay growing on said Farm. I also give to my said wife one hundred Dollars —

            I give and bequeath to my Son Zenas Harlow my Homestead Farm whereon I now dwell together with one half of my Plain Land, so called, which I hold by Deed from John Leonard, also my Lot of Cedar Swamp in the south purchase & also one half of the Debts, that shall be due to me at my Decease, & also all my Stock of Creatures of every kind & also all my outdoor moveables & one Bed that he has now in possession, also my Clock after the death of my wife to him & Heirs forever – my will is that my Son Zenas shall pay to my Granddaughter Joanna Harlow the daughter of my Son John one hundred Dollars after my decease and also all my just debts & funeral Charges & my will is that my Son Zenas make the provision herein given to my said Wife —

            I give and bequeath to my Son John Harlow all the Money that I have let him have amounting to nine hundred & nine Dollars & also a Note of hand that I hold against him, amounting to three hundred Dollars & I give to the Daughter of my Son John my Granddaughter Joanna Harlow one hundred Dollars to be paid by my Son Zenas after my Decease. ~~

            I give & bequeath to my Daughter Joanna Harlow the Wife of Ellis Harlow all my indoor Moveables after the Death of my Wife, except what I have otherwise disposed of & also one half of my plain Lot of Land, which I hold by deed from John Leonard, also one half of the Debts that shall be due to me at my Decease to her & Heirs forever. —

            I do hereby constitute & appoint my said Son Zenas Harlow & my Son in Law Ellis Harlow to be Executors of this my last will & Testament, thus hoping that this my last Will & Testament will be carefully kept & performed according to the true Intent & Meaning thereof I commit my Soul to God, who gave it, & my Body to the Dust to decent Burial –

   In witness whereof I the said John Harlow have hereunto set my hand & Seal the twenty first day of February in the Year of our Lord eighteen hundred & fourteen —

signed sealed & delivered by the said

John Harlow as his last Will and

Testament in presence of –                                                                                                John Harlow                                     (seal)

   John Tinkham

   Levi Tinkham 2d

   Cornelius Tinkham Junr.

 

Presented for probate on 1 Aug. 1814 by Zenas Harlow and Ellis Harlow, the Executors therein named, and proved by John Tinkham Esqr. and Cornelius Tinkham junr., two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Zenas Harlow and Ellis Harlow, the before named Executors.

 

John Tinkham Esqr, Silvanus Tillson, Gentleman, and Daniel Wood, Yeoman, all of Middleborough, were appointed to appraise the estate of John Harlow, late of Middleborough, yeoman, on 1 Aug. 1814. The Inventory, dated 30 Aug. 1814, totaled $5469.74, including his homestead lands and buildings valued at $1800, a lot of woodland valued at $414, and a lot of cedar swamp valued at $200. Zenas Harlow and Ellis Harlow, the Executors, gave their oath to the inventory on 7 Dec 1814.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 45, p. 436-438, from FHL microfilm #0550903, and Vol. 47, p. 26-27.

 

 

Will of Jonathan Harlow of Plymouth, Plymouth County, Massachusetts Bay (1786) *

In the name of God Amen—I, Jonathan Harlow of Plymouth in New England, of the Massachusetts Bay, yeoman, being of a Sound and disposing mind, but Considering the uncertainty of Life do think proper to Settle my worldly affairs and to make my Last will & testament in the manner following vizt – first of all I Commend my Soul into the hand of God that Gave it, hoping thro’ the merits of Jesus Christ, to Recieve the free pardon of all my Sins, my body I Commit to the Earth to be decently buried by my Executors hereafter named hoping thro’ the mercy of God to Recieve the same at the General Resurrection, and as touching my worldly Estate I dispose of it in the manner following

vizt 1st—I Give & bequeath to my beloved wife Sarah my Stock and all my moveables, so Long as She Remains my widow, Likewise the third part of the Income of my Estate or what is Raised out of my farm –

2nd—I Give to my two Sons Ansel & Jonathan equally alike all my Real Estate to them & their Heirs forever, also my Buildings & wearing Cloaths –

3d– I do hereby appoint and ordain my two Sons above mentioned to be my Executors of this my Last will & testament –

4th– It is my will that my sd. two Sons Ansel & Jonathan Should pay out of my Estate Eight pounds a piece to each of my five daughters vizt Sarah–Jedidah–Lucy–Polly & Clarissa to be paid within the Space of twelve months after my decease

Finally – It is my will that my Executors abovesaid do Settle & pay all my Lawful debts & funeral Charges: In Testimony whereof I hereunto Set my hand & Seal this twenty Eighth day of March AD 1786 ~

Signed Sealed & declared                                                                                                  Jonathan Harlow                             (seal)

                in presence of

                James Clark

                Seth Clark junr – Ivory Hovey

 

Presented for probate on 3 Oct. 1786 by Ansel Harlow and Jonathan Harlow, the Executors therein named, and proved by James Clark and Ivory Hovey, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Ansel Harlow and Jonathan Harlow, the before named Executors.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 30, p. 26-27, from FHL microfilm #0550716.

 

 

Will of Jonathan Harlow of Middleborough, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1830) *

Be it rememberd. that I, Jonathan Harlow of Middleborough county of Plymouth state of Massachusetts, do on this twenty second day of December in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and thirty make and publish this my last will and testament in manner following Viz

First I give and bequeath to my beloved wife Betsey the improvement of all my Estate both Real and Personal after my just debts & necessary expenses are paid during her life

Also I give and bequeath to my daughter Mercy three hundred dollars. likewise one half of my household furniture and one Bed & Bedding from the other half. also the front East room, Bedroom, Buttery & Porch in the house I now live in so long as she remains unmarried and chooses to live in it also the one quarter of the Pew in the new meeting house I purchased with my son Stephen

Also I give to my daughter Betsey one hundred dollars and the remainder of my household furniture not hitherto disposed of

And whereas my sons Jonathan and Eleazer have both deceased I give nothing on their account

To my son Stephen I give the use and improvement of the remainder of the House not hitherto disposed of so long as he chooses to live in it, provided he keeps it in good repair and the improvement of one sixth part of all my Estate both Real and Personal so long as he chooses to improve the same not hitherto disposed of and after that to his children equally and to their heirs and assigns forever –

To my sons Lewis, John, Lemuel, Ivory and Branch and to their heirs and assigns forever I give the residue and remainder of all my Estate both real and personal to be divided equally between them excepting from the share of my son Lemuel, it is my will that my Executor take fifty dollars & deliver it to my daughter Betsey the wife of Eliab Wood. And hereby revoke all former wills made by me     Lastly I hereby appoint my son Branch sole executor of this my last will and testament

In testimony whereof I hereby set my hand and Seal the day and year before mentioned.

                                                                                                                                                                 his

                                                                                                                                                Jonathan  X  Harlow                       (seal)

                                                                                                                                                                mark

Signed, Sealed, published & declared by the said Jonathan Harlow as his last will and testament in presence of us who at his request and in whose presence we hereunto set our hands as witnesses to the same

                Bradford Harlow

                Levi Wood

                Temperance Wood

 

Presented for probate on 6 Nov. 1832 by Branch Harlow, the Executor therein named, and proved by Bradford Harlow, one of the witnesses.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 72, p. 455-457, from FHL microfilm #0555261.

 

 

Will of Joseph Harlow of Plymouth, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1842) *

Be it known that I, Joseph Harlow of Plymouth, in the County of Plymouth, Yeoman, being advanced in life but of sound and perfect mind and memory, do make publish and declare this Instrument to be my last Will and Testament, as follows, To Wit.

First. I give and bequeath to my daughter Cynthia Clark, Wife of Stephen Clark, the sum of Two Hundred Dollars, one half payable in one year and the other half payable in two years after my decease.

Second. I give and devise to my two Grandsons Charles Franklin Harlow and Thomas Clark Harlow sons of my son Joseph Harlow Junior, all the Real Estate of which I may die seized and possessed, situated in the town of Middleborough, in said County of Plymouth, to have and to hold the same to them their heirs and assigns forever.

Third. I give and bequeath to my daughter in law Lucy Harlow, the Widow of my Son Hiram Harlow, deceased, in consideration of the services rendered by her in my family, and in token of my regard for her the Sum of Fifty Dollars, payable at my decease, in an annuity of Sixty Dollars a year payable at the expiration of each and every year thereafter, so long as she shall remain unmarried: and I do hereby charge my Real Estate with the payment thereof: but this bequest is upon the express condition that said Lucy shall bring no claim or demand against my estate for or on account of services she has rendered me, and upon the further condition that said Lucy remains in my family until my decease.

Fourth. I give, devise and bequeath to my Sons, Joseph Harlow, Jun. and Thomas Harlow, all the rest, residue and remainder of the Real Estate and Personal Estate of which I may die seized and possessed of whatever name or nature and wherever situate to have and to hold to them, their heirs and assigns forever, and I do appoint them the said Joseph and Thomas, Executors of this Will; and I do hereby revoke, annul and make void any and all former Wills by me heretofore made.

          In witness whereof I have hereunto set my Hand and Seal this Twenty third day of February, in the Year One Thousand, eight Hundred and Forty Two.

                                                                                                                                                Joseph Harlow                                 (seal)

Signed, Sealed published and declared by the above named Joseph Harlow, as his last Will and Testament, in the presence of us and we at his request in his presence and in the presence of each other have hereunto subscribed our names as Witnesses.

                                                                                                                                                Wm. R. Sever

                                                                                                                                                Nathaniel C. Lanman

                                                                                                                                                Jacob H. Loud

 

Presented for probate on the second Monday of August, 1845 by Joseph Harlow Jr. and Thomas Harlow, the Executors therein named, and proved by William R. Sever and J. H. Loud, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters Testamentary were granted to Joseph Harlow and Thomas Harlow, the Executors therein named.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 87, p. 353-355, from FHL microfilm #0555638.

 

 

Will of Josiah Harlow of Middleborough, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1798) *

        In the name of God Amen. I Josiah Harlow of Middleborough in the county of Plymouth, being weak of body, yet of a sound mind & memory (blessed be God for the same) considering that it is appointed for all men once to die, do make and ordain this my last will and testament, in manner following—vizt.—

        I Give and bequeath to my well beloved wife, the improvement of all my Real Estate of every kind, during her natural life; also all my Personal Estate of every kind, including my just dues and demands for her my said wife as her own property, use and disposal forever, excepting my wearing apparell, which I Give to my brother Ezra Harlow and my brother in law Josiah Clark equally between them; and my lightest brown Colt, which I give to my Sister Mary.

        I Give and bequeath to my nephew Ezra Harlow, the son of my brother Ezra Harlow and to Josiah Burbank, a son to Thomas Burbank of Middleborough, all my Real Estate, after the decease of my said wife, to be equally divided between them, to have and to hold, to them, their Heirs and assigns forever.

        And my will is, that my wife shall pay all my just debts and funeral charges out of that part herein given to her. Thus hoping that this my last will & testament will be carefully kept and performed. Witness my hand & Seal this 19th day of Novm. 1798.

Signed, Sealed and declared                                                                                                             his

        in presence of us                                                                                                          Josiah     X    Harlow                           (seal)

        Nehemh Bennet                                                                                                                         mark

        Thos Sturtevant

        George Vaughan

 

Presented for probate on 7 Jan. 1799 by Sylvanus Tillson of Middleborough, yeoman, (no Executor being named in said will), and proved by Nemiah Bennet Esqr., Thos Sturtevant, & Geo. Vaughan, all the witnesses.

Administration with will annexed of the estate of Josiah Harlow, late of Middleborough, yeoman, was granted to Sylvanus Tillson on 7 Jan. 1799.

 

Nemiah Bennet Esqr, Geo. Vaughan, Gentleman, and Zebulon Cushman, yeoman, all of Middleborough, were appointed to appraise the estate of Josiah Harlow, late of Middleborough, yeoman, on 7 Jan. 1799. The Inventory of the Estate of Josiah Harlow, late of Middleborough, yeoman, was dated 28 Jan. 1799, and totaled $2957.79, including his homestead lands & buildings valued at $1800, cedar swamp at Double brooks valued at $100, and one Eighth of a grist mill at $120, as well as livestock. Silvanus Tillson, the administrator with will annexed of the estate of Josiah Harlow, gave his oath to the inventory on 20 Apr. 1799.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 36, pp. 482-483, 571-572, from FHL microfilm #0550719.

 

 

Will of Nancy Harlow of Plymouth, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1840) *

Be it known to all to whom it may concern, that I Nancy Harlow of Plymouth, in the County of Plymouth, & State of Massachusetts, Single Woman, being of sound mind and memory do make and ordain this as my last Will & Testament.

        In the first place I commend my Soul to God who gave it and my body to a decent burial and my worldly estate I dispose of as follows Viz:

        I give & bequeath unto my brother Samuel Harlow of Plymouth aforesaid Cooper all my Estate both Real & Personal of every kind, name and nature whatsoever that I am now possessed of or that I may be possessed of at the time of my death. I also give & bequeath unto my said brother Samuel Harlow all my part & portion of the Estate of my brother Henry Harlow that shall or may be in the hands of his Administrator it being my intention to give & bequeath to my said brother all the Estate both Real & Personal of which I may in any way have an interest at the time of my death, he the said Samuel paying all the just debts I may owe at the time of my death and my funeral charges.

        And lastly I nominate and appoint my brother Samuel Harlow Sole Executor of this my last Will & Testament and dated at Plymouth this eighteenth day of January in the Year of Our Lord One thousand eight hundred & forty.

                                                                                                                                                Nancy Harlow                                  (seal)

Signed, sealed & declared to be her last Will in presence of us witnesses who have all subscribed our names in her presence and in presence of each other this eighteenth day of January in the Year of Our Lord One thousand eight hundred & forty.

                Joseph Bradford

                John Davie

                Samuel Ellis

 

Presented for probate on the second Monday of April 1840 by Samuel Harlow, the Executor, and proved by Joseph Bradford and John Davie, two of the witnesses.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 82, p. 122-123, from FHL microfilm #0555266.

 

 

Will of Nathaniel Harlow of Plympton, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1795) *

In the name of God Amen—I Nathaniel Harlow of Plymton in ye County of Plymouth & Commonwealth of Massachusetts, yeoman, being weak in body but of perfect mind & memory, Thanks be given to God therefor, calling to mind the mortality of my body & knowing that it is appointed for all men once to die, do make and ordain this my last will & testament, & desire it may be recieved by all as such that is to say principally & first of all, I give & recommend my soul into the hands of God that gave it & my body I recommend to the earth to be buried in decent christian burial, at the discretion of my Executors hereafter named nothing doubting but that at the general resurrection I shall recieve the same again by the mighty power of God, and as touching such worldly estate wherewith it hath pleased God to bless me in this life, I Give, demise and dispose of the same, in the following manner and form

        Imprimis—I Give & bequeath to Sarah my well beloved wife the improvement of one third part of all real & personal estate, for & so long as she shall remain my widow

        Item—I Give to my two Sons Nathaniel Harlow junr & Levi Harlow & to their heirs & assigns forever, all my wearing apparell, also half a Pew in the Gallery in the meeting house in Plymton, together with all my Farming tools & utensils, to be equally divided between them

        Item—I Give & bequeath to my two Daughters viz.—Patience Harlow & Sarah Shurtleff, & to their Heirs & assigns forever one Quarter part of a Pew on the lower floor in the meeting house in said Plymton, and also all my beds, bedding, linnen, & all other of my houshold furniture, together with all my Stock of Cattle & Sheep to be equally divided between them

        All the rest and residue of all my estate not before disposed of in this my last will & testament I Give & bequeath to my two Sons Nathaniel Harlow junr & Levi Harlow & to their heirs & assigns forever, and my will is, and I do positively order my two Sons Nathaniel & Levi to pay all my just debts and funeral charges equally between them

        Lastly—I do constitute, make & ordain my two Faithful & trusty Sons Nathaniel Harlow junr & Levi Harlow my Sole Executors of this my Last will and testament, and I do hereby utterly disallow, revoke & disannull all and every other former will, testament, Legacies, bequeaths & Executors by me in any way before named, willed & bequeathed, Ratifying & confirming this and no other to be my Last will & testament—In witness whereof I have hereunto Set my hand & Seal this Fifth day of August in the year of our Lord one thousand Seven hundred & ninety five-1795

Signed, Sealed, Published, Pronounced & declared

by ye sd Nathaniel Harlow as his Last will &                                                                 Nathaniel Harlow            (seal)

testament in the presence of us ye subscribers

                Ebenezer Bonney

                Elijah Bisbe junr

                Joseph Wright

 

Presented for probate on 2 Nov. 1795 by Nathaniel Harlow & Levi Harlow, the Executors therein named, and proved by Ebenezer Bonney & Elijah Bisbe junr, two of the witnesses.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 35, p.331-332, from FHL microfilm #0550718.

 

 

Will of Rebecca Harlow of Plymouth, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1852) *

                Be it known that I Rebecca Harlow of Plymouth in the County of Plymouth & Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Widow, being in feeble health but of sound & disposing mind & memory for which I am thankful do hereby make publish & declare this Instrument to be my last Will & Testament in manner following, to wit:

                After the payment of my debts, funeral expenses & charges of settling my Estate I make the following disposition of all the property & estate, real and personal which I may have at my decease.

  First. I give & bequeath to Jacob H. Loud the Sum of Two Thousand dollars in trust to & for the following uses & purposes & for none other, to wit. to apply the interest & income thereof to the support & maintenance of my sister Susan Dike during her natural life & if the interest & income thereof should not be sufficient for that purpose, then to appropriate such part of the principal of said sum to her support & maintenance as shall seem to my said Trustee to be necessary to her comfort. And at the decease of my said sister Susan I give & bequeath whatever shall then remain in the hands of said Trustee or any future Trustee who may be appointed in his stead, of the principal of said Trust fund & of the income thereof to the American Bible Society for the uses and purposes of said Society. Meaning & intending that said Trustee shall receive a reasonable compensation for his services. And this provision for my said sister Susan is on the condition that she shall not bring any claim against my Estate for Services.

Second. I give & bequeath to my sister Mary Jones the sum of one thousand dollars, to her & to her heirs & assigns forever.

Third. I give & bequeath to my sister Sarah Packard the sum of one thousand dollars to her & to her heirs & assigns forever.

Fourth. I give & bequeath to my brother Anthony Dike the sum of one thousand dollars to him & to his heirs & assigns forever.

Fifth. I give & bequeath to Rebecca Harlow Shaw the daughter of Samuel Shaw of said Plymouth my Deposite of Five Hundred Dollars in the Plymouth Savings Bank with whatever interest may be due thereon, which has not been withdrawn by me, the same with the accumulation of interest thereon to be kept in deposite in some Savings Bank until she arrives at the age of eighteen years & then to be paid to her for her use & benefit.

Sixth. I give & bequeath to Ezra Harlow Wait son of Hosea Wait of South Braintree the sum of Five Hundred Dollars to be paid to him when he shall arrive at the age of twenty one years.

Seventh. I give & bequeath to Mrs. Mary Dike the widow of my late brother Simeon Dike the sum of one hundred Dollars.

Eighth. I give & bequeath to Mary Whitmarsh the sum of one hundred dollars.

Ninth. I give & bequeath to my sister Susan Dike my wearing apparel.

Tenth. I give & bequeath to my sister Mary Jones all my household furniture & all other articles of personal property in my house (except money, notes, bonds, Stocks & Securities for money) to dispose of as she may please as presents to any of my friends or for her own use except as aforesaid.

                I give & bequeath all the rest residue and remainder of my Estate, if any there be, to the American Tract Society for the uses & purposes of said Society.

                I nominate & appoint Jacob H. Loud to be the Executer of this will.

                I revoke & annul all former Wills by me heretofore made & declare this & this only to be my last Will & Testament.

                In testimony whereof I have hereto set my hand & Seal this seventh day of April in the year one thousand eight hundred & fifty two.

                                                                                                                                                Rebecca Harlow                              (seal)

        Signed, sealed, published & declared by the said Rebecca Harlow as & for her last Will & Testament in presence of us, who in her presence & in presence of each other & at her request have hereto subscribed our names as witnesses.

                                                                                                                                                John Harlow

                                                                                                                                                Marcia A. Gray

                                                                                                                                                Lucy Harlow

 

Presented for probate on the third Monday of January 1853 by Jacob H. Loud, the Executor therein named, and proved by John Harlow, Marcia A. Gray, and Lucy Harlow, the witnesses.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Rebecca Harlow, late of Plymouth, widow, was appraised by John Harlow, Allen Danforth, and S. Sampson, not dated, but totaled $8089.40, no real estate, but stocks, mortgage bonds, notes, bank shares and bank deposits. Jacob H. Loud, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on the third Monday of Jan. 1853.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 95, p. 34-37, from FHL microfilm #0555642.

 

 

Will of Samuel Harlow of Plymouth, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1725) *

In the Name of God Amen I Samuel Harlow of Plimouth in the County of Plimouth Cooper being of a Disposing mind & memory blessed be God & calling to mind my own mortality Do make this my last will & Testament in Manner & form following Imprimis I Give & Bequeath my Soul to God that gave it me & my body to the Earth with a decent Christian burial according to the descretion of my Executor & as to my outward Estate that it hath pleased God to favour me with I Give in the following order In the first place I Give & bequeath unto my loving wife hannah Harlow the use & improvement of all my Estate during her natural life

Item I Give & Bequeath unto my Loving son John Harlow & to his heirs & assignes forever a small bitt of land where his barn stands & within his fences.

Item I Give & Bequeath unto my loving Son William Harlow & to his heirs & assignes forever half an acre of land where his house stands most convenient for him & lest hurtfull to my other land.

Item I Give & Bequeath (upon paying the legacies hereafter ordered) — my three sons viz. to my loving son John Harlow & to my loving son Samuel Harlow & to my loving son William Harlow & to either of their heirs & assignes forever all the remainder of my land housing meadows & swamp, that I have in Plimouth or Elsewhere.

Item I Give & Bequeath unto my three Grandchildren the sons of my loving son Eleazer Harlow deceased the Sum of twenty pounds to Each of them to witt twenty pounds to Eliaphas twenty pounds to Lemuel & twenty pounds to Eleazer to be paid them as they Shall arrive to the age of twenty one years & if either of them should decease before they come of age then their parts to be divided Eaqually between the Surviving Brothers of them three & I order my three Sons John Samuel & William to pay the same as it doth become due & that their land stands Chargable therefore tell it is paid. Item I Give my sword unto my loving Son William Harlow.

Item I Give my Gun unto my loving grandson Lemuel Harlow.

Item I Give & Bequeath unto my Loving daughter Rebeckah Tabor the sum of ten pounds to be paid out of my moveable Estate.

Item I Give & Bequeath unto my loving Grand daughter the Children of my son Eleazer five pounds apeice to be paid out of my Moveable Estate when & as they Come of age to wit to Elizabeth Harlow five pounds & to Patience Harlow five pounds.

Item I Give & Bequeath unto my Loving Daughters Hannah Harlow & Priscilla Harlow all the Remainder of my moveable & Personall Estate whatsoever & wheresoever it is or may be found & also the leanto in my dwelling house so long as either of them lives unmarried & moreover my will is & I do hereby order that my three Sons viz. John Samuel & William pay all my Just debts & funeral Expences in equall parts & lastly I do nominate & ordain & appoint my Loving wife Hannah Harlow Executrix of this my last Will & also my Son John Harlow my Executor & they are hereby Constituted & ordained Executors of this my last will & Testament hereby Revoaking disanulling & making void all other & former will or wills Codocell or Codocells by me heretofore made & allow this & no other to be my last will & Testament In Witness whereof I have hereunto Sett my hand & seal this Seventeenth day of February Annoque Domini one thousand Seven hundred & twenty four five.

Signed Sealed & Declared by the within named                                                           Samuel Harlow                (seal)

Samuel Harlow to be his last will & Testament

Before us witnesses

Samuel Dunham

Simon Lazell

Francis Adams

 

Proved on 17 Nov. 1727 by Simon Lazell, and on 2 Feb. 1727[/8] by Samuel Dunham and Francis Adams.

Letters of administration granted on 3 June 1728 to Hannah Harlow, relict widdow of the deceased, and John Harlow, one of the sons of the deceased.

 

The inventory of the estate of Mr. Samuel Harlow of Plimouth, was taken on 27 Feb. 1727/8 by John Dyer, Stephen Churchel, and Francis Adams, and included his home land and dwelling, valued at £384 15s.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 5, pp. 512-514, 515, from FHL microfilm #0550511.

 

 

Will and Codicil of Samuel Harlow of Plymouth, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1765) *

                                In the Name of God, Amen,

I Samuel Harlow of Plimouth in the county of Plimouth in New-England mariner, being in good health of body, and of a sound, disposing mind & memory, and being bound to sea, and not knowing what may befall me, and considering that it is appointed for all men once to die, Think it needful to settle my worldly affairs, and for that reason do make this my Last will & testament, And first of all I recomend my soul to God that gave it, and my body to a decent burial at the discretion of my executrix herein-named, hoping for a blessed resurrection to life eternal thro’ the merits & mediation of the Lord Jesus–Christ, the savior of Lost Men. And as touching my worldly estate, I give, devise & dispose of the same in manner following. My will is that all my just debts & funeral charges be first paid out of my estate as soon as may be after my decease by my executrix hereafternamed.~~

        In the next place I give & bequeath to my beloved wife Mary Harlow, all the goods, chattles, rights & credits which she brought to me at our intermarriage, to her & her heirs & assigns forever. I also give to my said wife in lieu of her dower in my real estate the use & improvement of the house & Lot where I now dwell in Plimouth aforesaid, to hold to her, for & during the term of her natural Life. All the Residue & remainder of my estate both real & personal I give to my children Samuel Harlow, Josiah Harlow, George Harlow, Mercy Harlow & Jerusha Harlow & their heirs & assigns in equal shares, to be equally divided between them. And I do hereby constitute & appoint my said wife sole executrix of this my will, and I do hereby renounce, revoke & make void all & every other will or wills by me heretofore made & confirm this & no other to be my Last will & testament. In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand & seal the twentysixth day of October A.D. 1765.

Signed, sealed & declared by the said                                                                             Sam Harlow                      (seal)

Saml. Harlow to be his last will & testmt.

in presence of us witnesses. —

Melatiah Lothrop, James Hovey, Lidia Hovey.

 

I Samuel Harlow abovenamed do give to my wife Mary Harlow, one third part of all my personal estate to be at her own dispose forever, over & above what I have given her in the will above written. And in every thing else I do confirm the above will, and do order this codicil to be taken as part & parcel of my said will. Witness my hand & seal the 30th. day of October 1765.

Signd. sealed & declared in presence                                                                               Sam Harlow                      (seal)

of   Melatiah Lothrop

        James Hovey

        Lidia Hovey

 

Presented for probate on 4 Aug. 1767 by Mary Harlow, the Executrix therein named, and proved by Melatiah Lothrop and James Hovey Esqre. Administration were granted to Mary Harlow, the executrix.

 

To John Davis of Plymouth in the County & Commonwealth aforesaid Gentleman

Whereas Samuel Harlow Late of said Plymouth mariner deced on the twenty sixty day of October Anno Domini 1765 made his Last will & testament in writing and signed, sealed and delivered the same before sufficient witnesses by which will (after Gifts and Legacies then made) he appoint his wife Mary Harlow Sole Executrix of the same will, but she dying before she had compleated her Excorship, and the same will having been proved, approved & allowed admon cum testament annexo et de bonis non is therefore by these presents Committed unto you the said John Davis of all & Singular the Goods, Chattells Rights & Credits of the said deced, well & faithfully to dispose of the same according to Law, and the direction of the said will… In Testimony whereof I have hereunto Set my hand & Seal of the Court of Probate at Plymouth in sd County this tenth day of April in the year of our Lord 1787

                                                                                                                                                Jos. Cushing

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 19, p. 511-512, from FHL microfilm #0550711, and Vol. 27, p. 511-512.

 

 

Will of Samuel Harlow of Plymouth, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1849) *

I Samuel Harlow of Plymouth in the State of Massachusetts, being of sound mind, but weak in body, do hereby make and publish this my last Will and Testament in manner and form following, to wit,

                First I give and bequeath to my neice Lydia Tribble, wife of Albert Tribble, my house and lot on Sandwich Street, and that part of my wood lot at Cooks Pond which lies between the road and said pond.

                I also give to the said Lydia all my Shares in the Old Colony Rail Road,– and likewise all my furniture, beds and bedding.

Second– I give and bequeath to my Neice Huldah Harlow One hundred Dollars –

Third   I give and bequeath to my brother George Harlow my part of a lot of land in Wellingsly so called, Also my Shop lot on Sandwich Street Also that part of my lot at Cooks pond not bequeathed to the above Lydia Tribble, and also what remains of my personal Estate after the bequests herein above made have been paid. – And I hereby constitute and appoint my brother, George Harlow, sole Executor of this my last Will and Testament

                In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this twenty fourth day of November, in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and forty nine

Signed and sealed in presence of us who have                                                              Samuel Harlow                                (seal)

hereunto affixed our names in the testators

presence and in the presence of each other

                Joseph Bradford

                Winslow Warren

                Henry Erland

 

Presented for probate on 30 Jan. 1850 by George Harlow, the Executor therein named, and after hearing and considering objections made by Ansel H Harlow in behalf of himself & others, and proved by Joseph Bradford, Winslow Warren and Henry Erland, the will was approved. Letters Testamentary were granted to George Harlow, the Executor therein named.

 

George Harlow, of Plymouth, was granted Letters Testamentary on the estate of Samuel Harlow, late of Plymouth, on 30 Jan. 1850, with Nathaniel E. Harlow and George H. Harlow, both of Plymouth, as sureties.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 92, p. 10-12, from FHL microfilm #0555640, and Vol. 1G, p. 512.

 

 

Will of Sarah Harlow of Plymouth, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1823) *

  In the name of God Amen I Sarah Harlow of Plymouth in the County of Plymouth & Commonwealth of Massachusetts Widow of Jesse Harlow late of said Plymouth deceased being of sound disposing mind and memory, do make and ordain this to be my last Will & Testament. In the first place I commend my Soul to the mercy of God who gave it and my body to a decent burial.

        Secondly, I order my just debts and funeral expenses to be paid out of my Personal Estate.

        Thirdly.  I give and bequeath to my beloved nephew Roland Edwin Cotton, son of my brother Rosseter Cotton, the whole of my Dwelling House in which I now live, and Lot of land on which it stands, and also the whole of my Garden, and Buildings standing on the same, And in case of the decease of my Nephew Roland E Cotton before myself I give and bequeath the same premises given to Roland E Cotton aforesaid, to my nephew John Winslow Cotton son of my Brother Rosseter Cotton, he the said John W Cotton paying to my niece Lydia Parker daughter of my sister Sophia Parker Two Hundred Dollars.

Fourthly, I give and bequeath to my sister Sophia Parker one half of my wearing apparel, and the other half of my wearing apparel to the children of my other sisters, the Children belonging to my Sisters, each Sister’s children to have one share.

Fifthly, I give and bequeath the whole of my Household Furniture as follows to wit, to my brother Rosseter Cotton One share. To my Brother Ward Cotton One Share. To the Children of my brother John Cotton One Share. To the Children of my sister Hannah Nye One Share. To the Children of my sister Lucy Jackson One Share. to the Children of my sister Elizabeth Haskell One Share. To the Children of my brother Josiah Cotton namely John Cotton and Mary Anne Hedge One Share, and to the daughter of my sister Sophia Parker One Share.

        Lastly I nominate & appoint my nephew Roland E Cotton above said, to be sole Executor of this my last Will and Testament, sealed with my seal, and dated this twentieth day of June in the year of our Lord One thousand eight hundred and twenty three.

   Signed sealed & declared to be her                                                                               Sarah Harlow                                   (seal)

last Will & Testament in the presence of us

        Barnabas Otis

        Salisbury Jackson

        Mary LeBaron ~

 

Presented for probate on 15 Dec. 1828 by Roland E Cotton of Plymouth, and proved by Barnabas Otis and Salisbury Jackson, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Roland E Cotton on 15 Dec. 1828.

 

Benjamin M. Watson, Barnabas Otis, and William M. Jackson, all of Plymouth, were appointed to appraise the estate of Sarah Harlow, late of Plymouth, widow, on 15 Dec. 1828. The Inventory, dated 29 Dec. 1828, totaled $2500.55, including her dwelling house, out buildings and lot valued at $2000. Roland E Cotton, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 19 Jan. 1829.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 66, p. 386-388, from FHL microfilm #0555259, and Vol. 67, p. 52-57.

 

 

Will of Seth Harlow of Plymouth, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1802) *

In the Name of God Amen.— I Seth Harlow of Plymouth in the County of Plymouth, Housewright, being sick & weak in body, but of sound & disposing mind & memory, do make and ordain this to be my last will & testament – First of all, I commend my soul to the everlasting mercy of God that gave it, & my body to a decent funeral, humbly praying for a glorious resurrection though Jesus Christ – in the next place, after my just debts and funeral expences are paid, I give & dispose of my worldly estate, as follows, ~

First – I Give and bequeath to my beloved wife Sarah, the use & improvement of all my estate both real & personal, for and during the time she may be my widow, excepting any right of improvement in a house lot which I have in this will given to my son Benjamin, and a small piece of wood land, which I have given to my son Seth.–

Second – I Give and bequeath to my son Seth Harlow junr. four acres of wood land in said Plymouth near small gains, being part of my pine lot at that place, said lot joining Harlows swamp, so called, near the farm owned by John Cotton, said four acres to be taken off adjoining said Seth Harlow junrs. wood land, this, my widow is to have no improvement of.–

Thirdly.– I give and bequeath to my son Benjamin Harlow, my shop lot in Plymouth aforesaid, adjoining to my son Seth Harlow junrs house lot, bounded, northerly by the road, easterly by John Rogers’s wife’s land, and westerly by said Seth Harlow junrs. house lot & garden spot, and is to hold the same width that it is next the road, & run southerly that width through my land; this piece of land my wife is to have no improvement of.–

Fourthly.– I Give and bequeath to my daughter Elisabeth Churchill, after my wife’s decease, the use & improvement of my part of the house in Plymouth aforesaid, in which she has lived since her husband George Churchill’s decease, to use and improve during the term of her natural life, and after her improvement shall cease I give & bequeath said part of said house to my grand children Ebenezer Churchill, Elisabeth Churchill, Branch Churchill & Sarah Warren Churchill, & to their heirs & assigns, they to have a right of passing & repassing to & from said house, and room to lay wood &c. for the use of said house, and to own the land it stands on, it being my part of the house, which is partly improved by Ephraim Bartlett’s widow.

Fifthly.– I Give and bequeath to my Daughter, Mercy Harlow, one half of the house in which I now live & half the land it stands on, said house fronting the road, and joining John Rogers’s wife’s part of said house, with ways to improve the same, it being subject to my wife’s improvement during her widow-hood.–

Sixthly – I Give and bequeath to my Six children, Seth, Nathaniel, Elisabeth, Sarah, Mercy & Benjamin, & to their heirs & assigns, to be equally divided between them, all my estate both real & personal, indoors & out of doors, which I may own, they to come into improvement after my wife’s improvement shall cease, excepting my said wife’s improvement, and excepting what is in this said will particularly given to Seth Harlow junr, Benjamin Harlow, Elisabeth Churchill & her children, and said Mercy, and all the residue of my estate to be equally divided between my six children, as aforesaid, when their mother’s improvement shall cease as aforesaid.

Lastly — I nominate & appoint my said wife Sarah & son Seth, to be Executors, to this my last will & testament.— In Testimony of which, I the said Seth Harlow do hereunto set my hand & seal this 16th day of June, A.D. one thousand, eight hundred & two –

Signed, Sealed & Declared to

be his last will & testament in                                                                                          Seth Harlow                                      (seal)

presence of us

                Rosseter Cotton

                Ansel Holmes

                Sarah Rogers

 

Presented for probate on 8 Sept. 1802 by Sarah Harlow & Seth Harlow, the executors therein named, and proved by Rosseter Cotton Esqr. & Sarah Rogers, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Sarah Harlow and Seth Harlow, the before named Executors.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

Seth Harlow, the Executor of the last will and testament of Seth Harlow, late of Plymouth, notified the court that the personal estate of the deceased was insufficient to pay his just debts and incidental charges by $160, and asked for license to sell part of the real estate on 16 Mar. 1824. License granted.

 

Ezra Harlow Junr, Ichabod Morton and Bradford Barnes, all of Plymouth, Gentlemen, were appointed to divide the real estate of Seth Harlow, late of Plymouth, Yeoman, among his children and heirs, Seth Harlow, Elizabeth Leonard, Nathaniel Harlow, Sarah Kempton, Mercy Harlow, and the heirs of Benjamin Harlow, deceased, on 16 Feb. 1824. The division was dated 18 May 1824, and approved on the same day, and it mentioned the children of Benjamin Harlow as being Benjamin Harlow and Betsey Harlow.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 38, p. 169-171, from FHL microfilm #0550720, and Vol. 58, pp. 95-96, 138-140.

 

 

Will of Sylvanus Harlow of Halifax, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1847) *

        In the name of God, amen, I, Sylvanus Harlow, of Halifax, in the County of Plymouth, being weak in body, but of sound and disposing mind and memory, do make and publish this my last will and testament, in manner and form, as follows, viz.

        1.   I give and bequeath to my wife Polly Harlow the improvement of all the property I died seized of, both Real and personal; while she continues my widow.

        2.   After my wife’s decease or marriage, I give and bequeath all my personal estate to my children to be equally divided among them.

        3.   I give and bequeath to my son Stephen Harlow, all my Real Estate, and I hereby appoint the said Stephen Harlow, the sole executor of this my last will and testament.

        In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this twentieth day of July, in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and forty seven.

                                                                                                                                                Sylvanus Harlow                             (seal)

Signed, sealed, published and declared by the above named Sylvanus Harlow to be his last will and testament, in the presence of us who have hereunto subscribed our names as witnesses in presence of the testator.

                                                                                                                                                Thos. Cushman

                                                                                                                                                Freedom Keith

                                                                                                                                                Calvin Holmes

 

Presented for probate on the first Tuesday of Oct. 1847 by Stephen Harlow, the Executor therein named, and proved by Thomas Cushman and Calvin Holmes, two of the witnesses.

 

Letters Testamentary were granted to Stephen Harlow, of Bridgewater, the Executor, with Columbus Harlow, of Halifax, and Bradford Harlow, of Middleborough, as sureties, on 5 Oct. 1847.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Sylvanus Harlow, late of Halifax, yeoman, was appraised on 30 Oct. 1847 by Thomas Cushman, Ebenezer Hall, and Bradford Harlow, his homestead farm and buildings valued at $900, and his personal estate valued at $564.00, including $172 in Securities. Stephen Harlow, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on the first Tuesday of July 1848.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 89, p. 392-394, from FHL microfilm #0555639, Vol. 2H, p. 131, and Vol. 90, p. 257.

 

 

Will of William Harlow of Middleborough, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1793) *

        In the name of God amen, I William Harlow of Middleborough in the county of Plymouth in the commonwealth of Massachusetts yeoman, being very sick and under great decays of my body but of a sound and disposing mind & memory, blessed be God for the same, wherefore calling to mind the mortality of my body and knowing that it is appointed to all men once to die, do make & ordain this to be my Last will & testament, to remain firm and inviolable forever—principally & first of all, I Give my soul to God that gave it & my body to the dust, to be buried in a christian decent burial at the discretion of my Executor hereafter named, nothing doubting but that I shall receive the same again at the general resurrection by the mighty power of God, and as touching such worldly Estate wherewith it hath pleased almighty God to bless me with, I do dispose of the same as followeth viz~

Imprimis—I Give and bequeath to my eldest son Ezra Harlow forty shillings to be paid by my Executor out of my Estate at my decease, which with what I have heretofore given him is his full proportion of my Estate

Item—I Give and bequeath to my Daughter Hannah the wife of Josiah Clark my silver cup and all the property that I have given her the possession of, also three silver teaspoons & half my copper tea kettle

Item—I Give and bequeath to my Daughter Mary Harlow one good cow & five good sheep, my case of draws & Large round table, three good beds with under beds, bedsteads & furniture suitable for them, & one silver table spoon, and also other indoor moveables & furniture sufficient with the afore enumerated articles to make her equal to what my said Daughter Hannah hath had, and also three silver tea spoons, one half my Copper tea kettle and half my slays and also all of the property which I have already given her the possession of including the one half of my Late wifes wearing apparell

Item—I Give and bequeath to my son Josiah Harlow one feather Bed, under Bed & Bedstead and half my wearing apparell

Item—I Give and bequeath to all of my before named children together with my son Ephraim Harlow my Pew in the meeting house

Item—I Give to my son Ephraim Harlow & to his heirs & assigns forever all of the remaining part and residue of all my Estate both real & personal, furthermore my will is and I do hereby order that my sons Josiah & Ephraim & Daughter Hannah Clark in equal proportion enable my Executor to pay all of my just debts funeral charges & the forty shillings which I by this will have given to my son Ezra

Lastly—my will is, and I do hereby appoint my son Ephraim Harlow sole Executor to this my Last will & testament, and I do hereby revoke & disannull all former wills made by me, thus hoping that this my Last will & testament will be kept and performed according to the true intent and meaning of it. I the said William Harlow have hereunto set my hand and seal this second day of January in the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred & ninety three

Signed, Sealed, published, pronounced

& declared by the said William Harlow                                                                          William Harlow                (seal)

to be his Last will & testament in

presence of us

        Saml Perry

        Joseph Clark 2d

        Isaac Thomson

 

Presented for probate on 26 Jan. 1793 by Ephraim Harlow, the Executor, and proved by Isaac Thomson Esqr. & Joseph Clark ye 2d, two of the witnesses.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 33, p. 254-255, from FHL microfilm #0550717.

 

 

Will of Zenas Harlow of Middleborough, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1835) *

                In the name of God Amen. I Zenas Harlow of Middleboro’ in the County of Plymouth and Commonwealth of Massachusetts Yeoman being well in body and of Sound mind and perfect memory but Calling to mind the mortality of the body, do this Eighteenth day of November A. D. One thousand Eight Hundred and Thirty Five, make and publish this my last will and testament in manner following Viz.

  1st. I give and bequeath to my beloved wife Lydia, all my Household Furniture, except my Clock and One hundred Dollars to be paid by my Executor herein after named in One year after my decease, to her her heirs and assigns forever. And I also give her the use and improvement of the East Front Room with the Chamber which is immediately over it, and largest Bedroom with such Privileges in the Kitchen, Buttery, Oven, and Cellar in my dwelling house, and in my Pew in the Meeting house at the four corners as she shall need Also five wood Sufficient for her fire delivered at the door and cut off fit for the fire. Also a horse and Carriage to use at her pleasure.

   Also One third part of all the Produce of my Farm, gathered & secured excepting that she shall have one third part of the milk of all the Cows kept on said Farm in lieu of one third part of the Hay and Fodder, during her natural life – and whereas she will receive one third part of all the meat fattened on said Farm, she is to receive her third part of the Produce after the meat is fatted.

        2d. I give to my Two Daughters, Louis Harlow and Hepzibah B. Harlow my Wood Lot which lies on the plain in said Middleborough and is bounded of the South by land owned by said Town of Middleborough, on the East by Ellis Harlow’s land, on the West by Melzar Tribou and others.– and north by Alexander Hacket and others, and also One Hundred Dollars each to be paid in cash by Executor hereafter named in one year after my decease to have and to hold, to them the said Louis and Hepzibah B. their heirs and assigns forever. Also I give to them my Two said Daughters after the decease of my said Wife, all her Rights and Privileges in my Dwelling house as above described, so long as they remain Single and in Case that either of them should marry or decease the other shall hold the same as if both were present, only it is to be understood that they are not to use said rights and Privileges in the Dwelling House by tenants, but only by themselves.

        3d. I give to my Daughter Lucy the Wife of Hiram Harlow One hundred dollars to be paid by my Executor in one year after my decease.

        4th. I give to my Daughter Lydia the Wife of Albert Barrows Forty Dollars to be paid in One year after my decease.

        5th. I give my Pew in the Meeting House excepting only the privilege above bequeathed to my Wife, and all the money, Notes and Securities Which I leave at my decease to my Five Children, to be equally divided between them.

        6th. I give and bequeath to my son Lewis Harlow, all the rest and residue of my estate both Real and Personal Wherever the same may be found, to have and to hold to him the said Lewis, his Heirs and assigns forever her to Pay all my Debts and Funeral Charges.

        And lastly I do constitute and appoint my said Son Lewis, Sole Executor of this my Last Will and Testament, and hoping the same may be kept.

I have hereunto Set my hand and Seal the day and year above Written

                                                                                                                                                Zenas Harlow                   (seal)

Signed, Sealed, Published and declared by the

said Zenas Harlow as his last Will and Testament

in presence of us who at his request and in his

presence have hereunto Set our names as Witnessed.

                                                Priscilla Tinkham

                                                Hannah Harlow

                                                William Nelson

 

Presented for probate on the first Tuesday of August 1847 by Lewis Harlow, the Executor therein named, and proved by Hannah Harlow, one of the witnesses whose names are subscribed thereto. Letters Testamentary were granted to Lewis Harlow, the Executor.

 

Lewis Harlow, of Middleborough, was granted administration of the estate of Zenas Harlow, late of Middleborough, on 3 Aug. 1847, with Albert Barrows, of Wareham, and Ichabod F. Atwood, of Middleborough, as sureties. No inventory of the estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 89, p. 290-291, from FHL microfilm #0555639, and Vol. 1G, p. 469.

 

 

Will of Arthur Harris of Bridgewater, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1750) *

        In the Name of God Amen the Twentiseveanth Day of March 1750 I Arthur Harris of Bridgwater in the County of Plimouth in his majestes province of the massachusets Bay in New England yeoman Being very Sick and Weake in Body But of perfect minde and memory thanks Be Given to God. Therefore Calling unto minde the mortality of my Body and Knowing that it is appoynted for all men once to Dye do make and ordain this my Last Will and Testement that is to Say princeaply and first of all I give and Recomend my Soul into the hands of God that Gave it and my Body I Recomend to the Earth to Be Bured in a Deceant Christian Burial at the Discretion of my Executor & nothing Doughting But at ye General Resurrection I Shall Receive the Same again by the mighty power of God and as Touching Such Worly Estate wherewith it hath plesed God to Bles me in this Life I Give Demise and dispose of the Same in the following manner and forme

Imprimas I give and Bequeath to Bethiah my derly Beloved Wife whome I Likesiwe Constitute make and ordain my Sole Executor of this my Last Will and Testement all my quick Stock and moveabel Effects She paying the Legases hereafter mented

Item I give and Bequeath to Benjamian Harris my Eldest son Five pounds In old Tenor I allow to be paid to him by my sd Executox together with a pair of pestils and the rest of his Trooping furnyture –

Item I give and Bequeath to Silas Harris my Second Son a Twenty acer Lot of Land Lying on the north side of Satuckit River Bounded westerly By the Lands of David Hille and Easterly By the Lands of Eleazer Washburne also ten acres Lying on ye plain on ye north side of the Roade a Little Easterly from the East meating House in sd Bridgwater to him and his hairs and Assigns for Ever as a perfect and absolute Estate of Inheritance Excepting a Resarve of fier Wood for one fier off from the sd Twenty acres Lot to my Widow as Long as She Remains –

Item I give and Bequeath unto Luce my Eldest Daughter one fether Bed and furnyture when she arrives to Lawfull age

        I Give To My Two youngest Sons William and Caleb Harris a Lot of meadow at poor meadow So Called and upland on the north Side of the way at the Head of the meadow Lying a Little Easterly from Thomas [can’t read]s Saw mill in Said Bridgwater to Be Equely Devided Betwen them as to quantity and qualety To Be By them and their heirs and assigns peceably and quietyly possessed for Ever Execepting the use and Improvement of the meadow to my widow during her Life

Item I give and Bequeath to my two youngest Daughters Bethiah and Mehitibel five pounds a peace to be paid to them in old tenor value when thay shall arive to Lawfull age – I Likewise order and Direct that one half of My Dwelling house be for the use and Improvement of my Widow During her widowhood also all my Bills Bonds and Books Debts and all other utencials after my Just Debts and funaral Charges are paid I Give to my sd Executrx to be by her freely possesed and Enjoyed I Do hereby utterly Disallow revocke and Disanulle all and Every other former Testements wills Legaces and Bequeaths & Executors by me in any ways Before named Willed and Bequeathed Ratifing and Confirming this and nother to be my Last will and Testement in Witness whereof I have hereunto Set my hand and Seal the Day and year above written

Signed Sealed and published prounounced and

Declared By the said Arthur Harris as

his Last Will and Testement in the presents

                                of us the Subscribers                                                                           Arther Harris                                    (seal)

Thomas Whitman

Samuel Whitman

Benjamin Whitman

 

Probated on 4 June 1750, and proved by Thomas Whitman and Benjamin Whitman, two of the witnesses.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 12, p. 141-142, from FHL microfilm #0551539.

 

 

Will of Arthur Harris of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1812) *

        In the Name of God amen. I Arthur Harris of Bridgwater in the County of Plymouth Yeoman, do make & ordain this my last Will & Testament in Manner & Form following

                I give & bequeath unto my Wife Celia the use & Improvement of one third part of my Real Estate during her natural Life. —

                I give and bequeath unto my Daughter Sally Washburn one hundred Dollars to be paid her by my Executor in one Year after my decease —

                I give & bequeath unto my Daughter Deborah Hall one hundred Dollars to be paid her in one Year after my Decease by my Executor

                I give & devise unto my Daughter Celia three hundred Dollars to be paid her by my Executor hereafter named in one Year after my decease —

                All the Rest & Residue of my Estate I give & devise unto my Son Azor, on Condition that he pay all the foregoing Legacies, pay all my just debts & funeral Charges, & do now appoint him sole Executor of this my last Will & Testament, made this fifteenth day of January in the Year of our Lord one Thousand eight hundred and Twelve ~~

Signed sealed published & declared by the said

Arthur Harris to be his last Will & Testament

in our Hearing, who at his request have put                                                                   Arthur Harris                                    (seal)

our Names hereto in his presence & in the

presence of each other as witnesses ~

                Nahum Mitchell

                Zenas Washburn

                Elijah Pratt –

 

Presented for probate on 6 April 1813 by Azor Harris, the Executor therein named, and proved by Zenas Washburn and Elijah Pratt, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Azor Harris, the before named Executor.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 44, p. 514-515, from FHL microfilm #0550903.

 

 

Will of Azor Harris of East Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1868) *

I Azor Harris of East Bridgewater in the County of Plymouth, do make & ordain this my last will & testament.

1. I give to my wife Sarah Harris all my personal estate, including all Household Furniture, farming tools, Saving’s Bank Book, all choses in Action & all articles of personal property of every kind & Sort. To have & to hold the the same, to her own use & disposal forever as her own absolute property.

2. I give devise & bequeath to my wife the said Sarah the use income & improvement of my Homestead farm whereon I now live for & during her life, subject to the Power of sale herein contained.

3. I give, devise & bequeath to my son Arthur Harris, my homestead farm subject to the life estate of my wife therein as above provided; to have & to hold the same to him his heirs & assigns forever.

4. I give to my grand children Mary Chilton Wilbur, Azor Harris Latham, & Galen Allen Latham, children of my deceased daughter Esther Latham, to each of said grand children the sum of ten dollars.

5. I appoint my said son Arthur Harris Executor of this will, & for the purpose of enabling him to pay debts, legacies & expenses, I hereby authorise & require him to sell & convey my woodland situate in Bridgewater, consisting of three separate parcels, laying above Sandy Hill, & on the Southerly side of the Plymouth Road, & out of the proceeds of such sale, to pay the above legacies, my debts, funeral expenses, & the Costs of Administration, & to pay over the balance of such proceeds, if any, to my wife for her own use, & if the sd proceeds be insufficient therefor, then I authorize my Executor to sell & convey so much of my Homestead aforesaid, unless my son chooses to pay the required balance out of his own funds, as will raise the required balance to pay said legacies, debts, expenses & costs. But if my son should desire to keep said Woodlands, then I give devise & bequeath the same to him to hold in fee simple upon condition that he pay, out of his own means, the above legacies my debts, funeral expenses & the Costs of Administration & the sum of twenty five dollars to my wife for her use. The Provisions herein for my wife are intended to be in lieu of her dower & Homestead in my estate. And if any portion of my homestead farm be sold for the purpose of paying debts, legacies & expenses as aforesaid. It is my intention that my wife should not have any life estate in such portion so sold.

In witness whereof I the said Azor Harris have hereto set my hand this twenty second day of August in the year One thousand eight hundred & sixty eight.

                                                                                                                                                Azor Harris

Signed published & declared by the said Azor Harris as & for his last will & testament in the presence of us who at his request & in his presence have hereto set our hands as witnesses.

                                                                                                Williams Latham

                                                                                                Benj. T. Crooker

                                                                                                Hosea Kingman

 

Presented for probate on the second Monday of July 1873 by Arthur Harris, of East Bridgewater, the Executor. Letters Testamentary were granted to Arthur Harris on 14 July 1873, with Robert C. Keith and Simeon C. Keith, of East Bridgewater, as sureties.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 140, p. 593-594, from FHL microfilm #0556648, and Vol. 133, p. 120.

 

 

Will of Benjamin Harris of East Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1827) *

  I Benjamin Harris of the City of Boston now residing in East Bridgewater my native place, considering my present infirm and feeble state of health, and the state of my affairs, do now make and ordain this my last will & testament in manner and form following, viz

        I give and bequeath unto my wife Sarah Fifty Dollars in money and so much of the Furniture as she may choose, in addition to her Dower in my Real Estate.

        I give and devise unto my three brothers William, Samuel and John, one hundred Dollars each.

        I give and bequeath unto Deborah Hall daughter of my eldest Brother Arthur Harris deceased One Thousand Dollars to be paid and delivered to her by my Executor, herein after named at his discretion, whom I constitute Trustee of the same, to see that it be appropriated to her best advantage and benefit.

        I give and devise unto Azor Harris son of Arthur aforesaid, my Silver-watch, and the two acres of Wood-land that came to me from my Father, and also Fifty Dollars in money, to have and to hold the said Land to him his heirs and assigns forever.

        I give and bequeath unto William Harris Jr. son of my brother William, my Fowling-piece and also One hundred Dollars in money.

        I give and bequeath unto Celia Whitman daughter of Arthur Harris aforesaid, One hundred Dollars.

        I give and bequeath unto Alice Chamberlain daughter of my brother William aforesaid One hundred Dollars

                I give and bequeath unto Samuel Harris, Lucy Harris, and Lydia Harris, children of my brother John Harris, One hundred Dollars each.

        I give and bequeath unto Nancy Mitchell, daughter of Bela Mitchell deceased One thousand Dollars.

                I give and bequeath unto the old Religious Society in East Bridgewater to which I formerly belonged and over which the Revd. John A Williams is now Pastor the sum of Four thousand Dollars, to be placed at interest, and the interest appropriated from time to time towards paying the Minister’s salary, to be under the care and direction of the Parish Committee for the time being; but the principal always to remain entire.

                I give and bequeath unto my friend Cushing Mitchell the sum of two hundred dollars, and also all the rest and residue of my Estate after all my just debts shall be paid, and all the Legacies herein given shall be paid and discharged.

                And I do now constitute and appoint Cushing Mitchell aforesaid, to be sole Executor of this my last Will and Testament, In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal, this thirty-first day of December, in the year of our Lord, One Thousand eight hundred and twenty seven.

   Signed sealed published

and declared by the said                                                                                                     Benjamin Harris                              (seal)

Testator, to be his last Will

and Testament, in presence of us and of each other who have hereunto at his request put our names as Witnesses

                                                                                                                                                Nahum Mitchell

                                                                                                                                                Jonah Edson

                                                                                                                                                Horatio G Bates.

 

Presented for probate on 2 Sept. 1828, and proved by Nahum Mitchell and Jonah Edson, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Cushing Mitchell of Boston, County of Suffolk, Merchant, the Executor named in said will, on 2 Sept. 1828.

 

George W Otis, Charles Leighton and Melzar Dunbar, all of Boston, County of Suffolk, were appointed to appraise the Estate of Benjamin Harris, late of East Bridgewater Esqr., on 2 Sept. 1828. The Inventory of the Estate of Benjamin Harris of East Bridgewater was dated 24 Sept. 1828, and consisted of $13,250 in Real Estate in the City of Boston, and $794.50 in personal estate in the City of Boston. Cushing Mitchell, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 7 Oct. 1828.

 

Silvanus L Mitchell, Charles Mitchell, and George Mitchell, all of East Bridgewater, were appointed to appraise the Estate of Benjamin Harris, late of East Bridgewater, on 7 Oct. 1828. The Inventory of the Estate of Benjamin Harris of East Bridgewater, dated 7 Oct. 1828, totaled $253.75, his real estate consisting of only 2 acres of wood land valued at $20. Cushing Mitchell, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 7 Oct. 1828, and he was directed to sell the personal estate of the deceased at Publick Auction.

 

Reuben Vose, Melzar Dunbar, and Robert Orr, all of Boston in the County of Suffolk, disinterested Freeholders, were appointed to set off from the Real Estate of Benjamin Harris, late of East Bridgewater, to his widow Sarah Harris, her dower in the estate on 4 Aug. 1829. The division was dated 28 Sept. 1829, and approved on 1 June 1830.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 66, pp. 239-241, 324-326, from FHL microfilm #0555259, and Vol. 69, p. 268-270.

 

 

Will of William Harris of East Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1826) *

In the name of God Amen. I William Harris of East Bridgewater in the County of Plymouth, Yeoman, do make & ordain this my last Will and Testament in manner and form following. I give and bequeath unto my Wife Alice the use and Improvement of one third Part of my Real Estate during her natural Life. I also give to my Wife Alice the use and the Disposal of all my household Furniture betwixt our two children. I give and bequeath unto my Daughter Alice Chamberlin Fifty Dollars to be paid her by my Executor in one year after my Decease. I give and bequeath unto my Grand Daughter Mary Orr Young Twenty five Dollars to be Paid her in one year after my Decease by my Executor hereafter named – All the Rest and Residue of my Estate I give and divided unto my Son William on Condition that he Pay all the foregoing Legacies Pay all my just Debts and Funeral chargers and do now appoint him Sole Executor of this my last Will and Testament – made this fifteenth day of August in the year of our Lord One thousand Eight hundred and Twenty Six.

                                                                                                                                                William Harris                                  (seal)

Signed, Sealed Published & Declared by the said William Harris to be his

last Will and Testament in our hearing who at his Request have put

our names hereto in his Presence & in the Presence of each other as

witnesses

Azor Harris

Silvanus Rogers

Alvan Cole.

 

Probated on 5 Aug. 1831, and proved by Azor Harris and Alvan Cole, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration granted to William Harris of East Bridgewater, yeoman.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 70, p. 105-106, from FHL microfilm #0555260.

 

 

Will and Codicil of Micah Haskell of Rochester, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1807) *

In the Name of God amen. I Micah Haskell of Rochester in the County of Plymouth Taylor considering the Uncertainty of Mortal Life & being of sound & perfect mind & memory (blessed be almighty God for the same) do make & publish this my last Will & Testament, in form following, viz.

        Imprimis. First I give & bequeath unto Nathaniel Clapp of Rochester & County aforesaid a certain Note which I hold against him for about seven Dollars & I also give unto the said Nathaniel Clapp all the moveable property, which is now in his possession –

        Item. 2d. I give and bequeath unto Zebulon Haskell of Rochester & County aforesaid (son of Seth Haskell late of Rochester deceased) three hundred Dollars to be paid to him (by my Executor hereafter named) within fifteen Months after my decease – & I also give unto the said Zebulon Haskell all my wearing Apparel –

        Item 3d. I also give unto Job Haskell of Rochester & County aforesaid (son of Seth Haskell late of Rochester deceased) twenty five Dollars to be paid him by my Executor within twelve months after my decease. –

        Item 4th. I also give and bequeath unto Nathaniel Haskell of Hardwick in the County of Worcester one hundred fifty Dollars to be paid within twelve months after my decease (by my Executor) –

        Item 5th. I give and bequeath unto Samuel Haskell of Brookfield in the County of Worcester, one hundred & fifty Dollars to be paid him by my Executor within twelve months after my decease –

        Item 6th. I also give unto Roger Haskell of Oakham in the County of Worcester one hundred & fifty Dollars to be paid him within twelve months after my decease (by my Executor –

        Item 7th. I also give unto Zebulon Haskell of Middleborough in the County of Plymouth one hundred & fifty Dollars to be paid him (by my Executor) within twelve months after my decease. –

        Item 8th. I also give unto Elisha Haskell of Middleborough in the County of Plymouth one hundred & fifty Dollars to be paid him by my Executor within twelve Months after my decease –

        Item 9. I also give unto Lydia Hammond (wife of Benjamin Hammond of Rochester aforesaid & Daughter of Seth Haskell late of Rochester deceased) ten Dollars to be paid her within twelve Months after my decease –

        Item. 10. I also give unto Abiah Peckings (wife of Benjamin Peckings of Rochester & Daughter of Seth Haskell late of Rochester deceased) ten Dollars to be paid her by my Executor within twelve months after my decease –

        Item lastly I give unto Micah Haskell Ruggles (Son of Elisha Ruggles Esqr of Rochester aforesaid) all the rest & residue and remainder of my property (after paying all my just debts & Expences of settling my Estate) to be paid him by my Executor when he shall come to the Age of twenty one Years –

        And I hereby appoint Nathaniel Clapp of Rochester & County of Plymouth Executor of this my last Will & Testament, hereby revoking all former Wills by me made –

In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand & seal the twenty eighth day of July in the Year of our Lord one Thousand eight hundred & seven –

signed sealed published & declared by the above named Micah Haskell

to be his last will and Testament in presence of us, who at his request & in his

presence have hereunto subscribed our Names as Witnesses to the same

                Joseph Luce                                                                                                          Micah Haskell                                  (seal)

                Samuel W Luce

                Caty White

                Corey Taber

 

        I Micah Haskell of Rochester in the County of Plymouth Taylor do this twenty eighth day of July in the Year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred & seven make & publish this Codicil to my last Will & Testament in manner following viz whereas in my last Will & Testament I have given & bequeathed to Micah H. Ruggles (son of Elisha Ruggles Esqr.) all the property which I am possessed of after paying out the several Legacies, as given in my said last Will & Testament I do therefore Order & declare, that my Will is, that the Executor put the amount given to the said Micah H Ruggles out at Interest, untill he shall arrive to the Age of twenty one Years, when I order & it is my Will it then be paid him both principal and Interest. – and also it is my Will, that should the said Micah H. Ruggles die before he shall arrive to the Age of twenty one Years, then it is my Will, that the amount given him, be given to Henry Ruggles, James Ruggles & William Ruggles (all Sons of Elisha Ruggles Esqr. & Brothers to the said Micah H. Ruggles) to be equally divided between them. & paid them by my Executor, when they shall arrive to the Age of twenty one Years. & Lastly it is my desire that this my present Codicil be annexed to and made a part of my last Will & Testament to all Intents & purposes –

        In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand & seal this twenty eighth day of July in the Year of our Lord one Thousand eight hundred & seven

signed sealed published and declared by the above

named Micah Haskell as a Codicil to be annexed                                                        Micah Haskell                                  (seal)

to his last Will and Testament in presence of

                Joseph Luce

                Samuel W. Luce

                Caty White

                Corey Taber

 

Presented for probate on 15 Aug. 1807 by Nathaniel Clapp, the Executor therein named, and proved by Joseph Luce and Corey Taber, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Nathaniel Clapp, the before named Executor.

 

Abraham Holmes Esqr., Elisha Ruggles Esqr. and Capt. Calvin Mitchell Gentleman, all of Rochester, were appointed to appraise the estate of Micah Haskell, late of Rochester, Taylor, on 15 Aug. 1807. The Inventory, not dated, totaled $1868.13, including several Notes of Hand and Bonds, but no real estate. The appraisers gave their oath to the inventory on 28 Sept. 1807, and Nathl. Clap, Executor to the Will of Micah Haskell gave his oath to the inventory on 15 Oct. 1807.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 42, pp. 150-151, 191-192, from FHL microfilm #0550902.

 

 

Will of William Haskins of Scituate, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1798) *

In the name of God amen, I William Haskins of the Town of Scituate in the County of Plymouth in New-England Calker being weak of Body, but of perfect Mind & memory thanks be given unto God, calling unto mind the mortality of my Body & knowing that it is appointed for all men once to die, I do make & ordain this my last will and Testament, that is to say principally & first of all I give and recommend my Soul into the hands of almighty God that gave it & my Body I recommend to the Earth to be buried in decent Christian Burial at the discretion of my Executor, nothing doubting, but at the general Resurrection I shall receive the same again by the mighty Power of God & as touching such worldly Estate, wherewith it hath pleased God to bless me in this Life with I give demise & dispose of the same in the following Manner & form—

First I give to my Son Lemuel Haskins, whom I likewise constitute, make and ordain the sole Executor of this my last will & Testament, all my whole Estate both Real & personal Estate except such Legacies as I shall hereafter order to be paid after my decease, I also order that my said Executor shall pay all my just & honest debts —

        Also I give to my Son William Haskins ten Dollars to be paid as aforesaid –

        Also I give to my Daughter Hannah Hall five Dollars to be paid as aforesaid –

        Also I give to my Daughter Bathsheba Sylvester two Dollars besides what she had when she was married, to be paid as aforesaid. —

        Also I give to my Granddaughter Zilpha Bryant Hall five Dollars to be paid as aforesaid –

        Also I give to my Daughter Luanna Sprague fifty five Dollars & the Bed she now improves with the Furniture that now belongs to it & also two sheets and one new Bed quilt, & she is not to bring in any account against my Estate

In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and Seal this third day of April in the Year one thousand seven hundred & ninety eight.  Signed and sealed published, pronounced & declared by the sd. William Haskins as his last Will & Testament in the presence of us, who in his presence & in the presence of each other have hereto subscribed our Names

        William Briggs

        Thomas Church                                                                                                           Wm Haskins                                        (seal)

        Silas Stetson

 

Presented for probate on 1 June 1807 by Lemuel Haskins, the Executor therein named, and proved by William Briggs, Thomas Church and Silas Stetson, all the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Lemuel Haskins, the before named Executor.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 42, p. 108-109, from FHL microfilm #0550902.

 

 

Will of Anthony Eames Hatch of Marshfield, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1842) *

  In the name of God; Amen, I anthony Eames Hatch of Marshfield in the County of Plymouth and Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Cordwainer, being aged and infirm in body, but of sound and disposing mind and Memory, blessed be Almighty God for the same, and considering the uncertainty of this Mortal life, do make and publish this my last will and Testament, resigning my spirit to God, who gave it, in hopes of a glorious resurection to immortal life by a Redeemer; and my body to a decent burial at the discretion of my Executors, hereinafter named, and as touching the worldly property, which God has been pleased to bless me with, I give and bequeath in the manner following, that is to say,  First I give and bequeath unto my beloved wife Bethiah Hatch (in lieu of her Dower in my estate) the use and improvement of all my part of the dwelling house in which I now live, so long as she shall remain my widow, or shall wish to occupy the same, Also I give and bequeath unto my said wife, one hundred dollars annually to be paid to her quarterly by my sons, Abijah Hatch, Elisha Hatch and the Heirs of my son Anthony Hatch deceased, as follows said Abijah – one quarter part, said Elisha – one half, and said Heirs of my said son Anthony one quarter part and to pay to her more in the same proportion if necessary for her comfortable support. Also I give and bequeath unto my said wife, all my household Furniture of every kind, and all the provision that shall be in my possession at my decease. Also I give and bequeath unto my said wife eight cords of wood annually, one half hard wood, to be furnished by my said sons and by the heirs of my said Son Anthony deceased in the same proportion as above named; to be cut ready for the fire and put into the wood house in the month of October annually. Said wood to be furnished for her as above named, so long as she shall remain my widow, or shall occupy & reside in my dwelling house and no longer. Also I give and bequeath unto my said wife one barrel of flour annually, and so much meal and sauce annually, as she may wish for her consumption, to be furnished and provided for her by my said sons, and by the heirs of my deceased son in the same proportion as above named so long as she shall remain my widow, and to be delivered to her in such quantities as she may wish. Also I give and bequeath unto my said wife my Clock, Also I give and devise unto my said wife her heirs and assigns my pew in the Methodist Episcopal Meeting house in Marshfield.

2d. I give and bequeath unto my beloved daughter, Bethia Conant eighty dollars in addition to what I delivered her at her marriage and since.

3d. I give and bequeath unto my beloved daughter, Mercy Rogers, thirty two dollars in addition to what I have heretofore given her

4th I give and bequeath unto my beloved daughter, Grace Sherman fifty nine dollars in addition to what I have heretofore given her

5th. I give and bequeath unto my beloved daughter, Celia Ramsdell one hundred and eleven dollars in addition to what she has already received.

6th. I give and bequeath unto my beloved daughter Laura Hatch forty nine dollars in addition to what I have already given her

7th. I give and bequeath unto my son Calvin Hatch five dollars if he or his heirs shall call for it within five years from my decease

8th. I give and bequeath unto my grandson Anthony Hatch my best suit of clothes

All the above legacies to be paid by my said Sons Abijah Hatch, Elisha Hatch, and the heirs of my said son Anthony Hatch, deceased, in the before named proportion, that is to say, the said Abijah one quarter part said Elisha one half part and the heirs of my said son Anthony deceased one quarter part in six months after my decease.

9th. I give and devise all the rest residue and remainder of all my real and Personal estate to my said Sons Abijah Hatch, Elisha Hatch and the heirs of my son Anthony Hatch deceased, their heirs and assigns forever as follows to the said Abijah his heirs and assigns one quarter part thereof; to said Elisha Hatch his heirs and assigns one half part thereof, and to the heirs of my son Anthony deceased their heirs and assigns one quarter part thereof. They the said Abijah Hatch, Elisha Hatch, and the said heirs of my son Anthony to pay the above Legacies, and all my just and honest debts & the expense of my last sickness and funeral Charges, as follows said Abijah one quarter part, said Elisha one half part, and said heirs of my said son Anthony deceased, one quarter part.

And if either of my said Children shall present any account against my Estate or any other person for him or her, he or she shall forfeit all that I have given him or her in this my last will and Testament.

Lastly I do hereby nominate and appoint my said Son Abijah Hatch, and John Ford of said Marshfield joint Executors of this my last will and Testament hereby revoking all former wills by me.

In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and Seal this ninth day of March in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and Forty two.

                                                                                                                                                Anthony E. Hatch                            (seal)

Signed, Sealed, published and declared by the said Anthony Eames Hatch to be his last Will and Testament in the presence of us who at his request and in his presence have hereunto subscribed our names as Witnesses to the same.

                                                                                                                                                Benjamin Hatch

                                                                                                                                                Israel Hatch

                                                                                                                                                Sally Ewell

 

Presented for probate on the last Tuesday of Nov. 1842 by Abijah Hatch and John Ford, the Executors therein named, and proved by Benjamin Hatch and Israel Hatch, two of the witnesses. Letters Testamentary were granted to Abijah Hatch and John Ford, the Executors therein named.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Anthony E. Hatch, late of Marshfield, was appraised by Edward P. Little, Joel Hatch, and Wales R. Clift, on 8 Nov. 1842, his real estate valued at $2361.50, and his personal estate at $302.31.  Abijah Hatch and John Ford, the Executors, gave their oath to the inventory on the last Tuesday of Nov. 1842, and they were given license to sell the personal estate of the deceased on 29 Nov. 1842.

 

Abijah Hatch and John Ford, both of Marshfield, were granted administration of the estate of Anthony E. Hatch, late of Marshfield, yeoman, on 29 Nov. 1842, with William Ford and Nahum Packard, both of Marshfield, as sureties. Joel Hatch, Edward P. Little, and Wales R. Clift, all of Marshfield, were appointed to appraise the estate of Anthony E. Hatch, late of Marshfield, on 4 Oct. 1842.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 84, p. 581-585, from FHL microfilm #0555267, and Vol. 1G, p. 225.

 

 

Will of Thomas Hathaway of Dartmouth, County of Bristol, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1742) *

this fifth Day of April Anno domini Seventeen Hundreds and forty Two I Thomas Hathaway of Dartmouth In the County of Bristol In the Province of the Massachusetts Bay in New England Yeoman Being weak of Body but of Perfect Mind and Memory do make And ordain This my Last Will and Testament: And as Touching Such Worldly Estate Where with it Hath Pleasd God To Bless me in this Life I Give Devise and Despose of the Same in the following Manner and form (viz)

Imprimis: My Will Is that all My Just Debts and funeral Charges Should be first paid out of my Real Estate as Here after Mentioned

Item: I Give To My three Sons (viz) Antipass Hathaway Thomas Hathaway and Jethro Hathaway and To their Heirs and Assigns for Ever all my Right in the Islands in Dartmouth before Said Together with a Certain pece of Land lying Between the friends Meeting House in Acoshenet viledge and the parting ways So Called To be Eaqualy devided Among them: Besides what I have Alredy Given To Each of them By deed of Gift Before the date of this my will

Item: I Give and Bequeath To my Said Son Antipass Hathaway And to his Heirs And Assigns for Ever All that my Salt Marsh Meadow and upland Adjoyning at or on the Easterly Side Scontient Neck and Nere the Lower End of Said Neck Adjoyning To the Tinkams Meadow and land Together with All that My Lott of upland Meadowish Ground Lying on The west Side of Said Neck Below Winchagansett So Called Together with all that my Tract of Ceder Swamp Lying at A place Called Hoppomock Accepting Two poyntes of Said Swamp which I Shall in this my will other ways Despose of

Item I Give and Bequeath To My Said Son Thomas Hathaway and To his Heirs And Assigns for Ever All That part of Said Tract of Ceder Swamp Above Mentioned Lying to the Northward of the Line Here After Exprest (viz) Begining at the Southerly Side of A Little Swamp (Being a Branch of Said Ceder Swamp Runing Northward of A Certain place Called Blyes House) thence Westerly Throgh the Swamp to the Nerest upland it Being all That part of Said Swamp Lying to the Northward of Said line Runing Westerly as Afore Said which Arme of Swamp leads up to Aarons Casse So Called or Country Road

Item I Give and Bequeath to my Said Son Jethro Hathaway Above Named and to his Heirs and Assigns for Ever All that part of that my Lot of Ceder Swamp first Mentioned Lying to the Eastward of the line Here After Exprest (viz) Begining at the Going in to Said Swamp at the place Called Blyes House Thence Southerly Throgh the Swamp or Poynt there of to the Nerest upland

Item – I Give To My Daughter Apphia Mott five pounds Bills of Credit of the Old Tenner or any oz Either of the Colonyes Besides what I have Alredy Given her

Item I Give To my Daughter Elizabeth Clerk five pounds Good Bills as a Bove Said Besides what I have Alredy Given her

Item I Give To my Daughter Mary Kimton five pounds Good Bills as Above Said Besides what I have Alredy Given her

Item I Give To my Daughter Hipzibah Wing five Pounds Good Bills As Above Said

Item I Give To my Son Jethro Hathaway Above Named Thirty Pounds Good Bills of Credat of the old Tenner As Above Said Three Sons (Viz) Antipass Thomas & Jethro Above Named and

Item I Give To my four Daughters Above Named That is To Say Apphiah Elezebeth Mary and Hipzibah All my Moveable Estate Both in door and out To Be Eaqualy devided Among Them

Item My Will Is That all My Land Meadow And Ceder Swamp within The Town Ship of Dartmouth Afore Said Whether divided or undivided Not Before in this my Will other ways desposed of: or By deeds of Gift: Should be sold by my Executor here after Named And Just Debts Legacies and funeral Charges first paid out of the Same And the overpluss To Be Eaqualy Divided To and Among my three Sons and four Daughters Above Named

Item I Likewise Constitute Make and ordain My Said Son Thomas Hathaway Sole Executor of This My Last Will and Testament And I Do here By Utterly Disalow Revoke and Disannul all other or former Wills Legacies or Bequests By me in any wise before Named (Accept By Deed of Gift) Rattifing and Confirming This and No other To be my last will and Testament      In Witness where of I have here unto Set my Hand and Seal The Day and Year first Above Written

Signd Seald Publishd

Pronouncd and Declaird

By the Said Thomas Hathaway

As His Last Will and Testament

In Presents of

Jacob Taber                                                                                                                          Thomas Hathaway                                          (seal)

Bartholomew West

Bartholomew Taber

 

Proved on 3 May 1748 by Bartholomew West and Bartholomew Taber, two of the Witnesses.

Stephen West Jur, Thomas Pope and Jonathan Hathaway gave their oath that they would take a just apprizement of the Inventory both personal and Real of Thomas Hathaway on 30 Mar. 1748.

 

The Inventory of all ye Estate of Thomas Hathaway Yeoman late of Dartmouth, dated 1 Apr. 1748, totaled £511.19.06. Thomas Hathway, the Executor of the Last Will and Testament of his father Thomas Hathway, late of Dartmouth, gave his oath to the inventory on 3 May 1748.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Bristol County Probate File “Thomas Hathaway, Dartmouth, 1748,” from FHL microfilm #0576791.

 

 

Will of Ebenezer Haward of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Massachusetts Bay (1784) *

In the Name of God Amen –the fourteenth day of May in the year of our Lord Seventeen Hundred & Eighty four–I Ebenezer Haward of Bridgwater in the County of Plymouth & Commonwealth of Massachusetts in New England, yeoman, being advanced in age yet through Divine Goodness of sound and disposing mind and memory, & Calling to mind the frailty & mortality of my body, as well as the Souls immortality and the duty of Setting my House in order before death Do now proceed to make and ordain this my Last will & testament that is to say principally and first of all, I Commend my immortal Soul into the hands of that God who Gave it, trusting in the merits and intercession of Jesus Christ my Saviour for pardon Grace and Glory, and my body I Commit unto the Earth to be decently buried at the discretion of my Executor hereafter named, nothing doubting but at the General Resurrection of all the dead the same shall be Raised again by the mighty power of God to a Glorious immortality, and as touching my worldly Interest which it hath pleased God to bless me with, I Dispose of it in the following manner – vizt

Imprimis – I Give and bequeath unto my well beloved wife Katherine (to be Entirely at her dispose) all my Houshold Goods and furniture Except Such as are hereafter mentioned & Otherways disposed, I also Give her all my books of Divinity and all my Other books, Except books of Accompt, and I also Give her all my wearing apparell and one milk Cow to be at her dispose as aforesaid, I also Give unto her my sd. wife the use and improvement of one third part of my Dwelling House & the use of one third part of my Barn & Corn House, and I also Give her the use and improvement of one third part of all my Lands in Bridgwater, Otherways it is my will that my said wife shall have the Lawful Interest of Fifty pounds Lawful money annually paid to her in the Room of the use & improvement of the aforesaid Lands as she shall Choose during the whole term of her natural Life, and to be paid to her by my daughter Mehitable; I also Give to my said wife all my money that I shall have & on hand at my decease

Item – I Give and bequeath unto my Daughter Silence two thirds of a Pew in the Congregational meeting House in the west Precinct of sd Bridgwater it being on the Left hand of the pulpit stairs as we Go up into sd pulpit & is adjoining to sd stairs being all my Right in sd Pew – I also Give her the one half of a Pew in Easton meeting House which I bought of Colo. Abiel Mitchel of said Easton –

Item – I Give and bequeath unto my Daughter Mehitable and to her Heirs and assigns, all my Lands and Buildings in the South Precinct of Bridgwater aforesaid (being the Homestead where I now Live) Reserving the use and improvement of one third part of the same to my wife during the term of her natural Life, Reserving also so much of sd Lands and buildings as will be Sufficient to pay and discharge all my just debts and funeral Charges ~

Item – my will is that all my just debts and funeral & other charges be paid by my Executor hereafter named, and that the same be paid out of what I have Reserved of my Homestead Lands and buildings for that purpose, and I do hereby order and impower my said Executor to make Sale of so much of my said Lands and buildings as shall be Sufficient to pay said Debts and funeral Charges ~

Lastly – I Do hereby nominate and appoint Mr. Libeus Fobes of said Bridgwater yeoman, Sole Executor upon this my Last will & testament, ordering him to pay all my just debts & funeral & other Charges, and I do hereby Revoke disannul and make utterly void all other wills that have at any time heretofore been made by me–In Testimony whereof I do hereunto Set my hand and Seal the day and year aforesaid ~

Signed Sealed, Published pronounced and

declared by the said Ebenezer Haward to be                                                                  Ebenezer Haward                            (seal)

his Last Will & testament in presence of

                Alpheus Fobes

                Israel H. Buker

                James Leach

 

Presented for probate on 1 May 1786 by Libeus Fobes, the Executor therein named, and proved by Alpheus Fobes and James Leach, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Libeus Fobes, the before named Executor.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 29, p. 526-528, from FHL microfilm #0550716.

 

 

Will and Codicil of Edward Haward of Bridgewater, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1764) *

                                                In the Name of God, amen. –

On the twentysecond day of December one thousand, seven hundred and sixty four, I Edward Haward of Bridgwater in the county of Plymouth gentleman, being of a sound and disposing mind and memory, proceed to make this my Last will and testament,  In the first place I give and recomend my soul into the hands of God who gave it trusting in the mercy of God through Christ for pardon, grace and glory, and my body I comit to the earth to be decently buried at the discretion of my executor hereafter named, and as to my worldly interest, I dispose of in the following manner, viz. ~

First, My will is that my son Edward pay all my debts and funeral charges in convenient-time after my decease, whom I nominate and apoint sole executor of this my Last will & testament.

Secondly. With regard to my wife Mary who by divine providence hath Loss’d the genuine use and exercise of her reason & understanding, I order and direct my said son Edward to provide for her comfortable and honourable suport during Life, and to be at the cost of a decent funeral for her when she shall decease.–

Thirdly, I give and bequeath to my son James ten pounds Lawful money, and one half of my wearing –aparel, also two of my silver-spoons, which together with what I have given him heretofore is his part of my estate.

Fourthly, I give unto my daughters namely Sarah Ripley & Jane Haward their heirs and assigns forever, my five acres of meadow lying in the east precinct in Bridgwater, at a place called Snell’s-meadow, to be equally divided between them. Further, I give unto each of them a feather-bed, bolster, pillows, under-bed, bedstead, cord, one coverlet, one blanket, & four pair of sheets to each bed. Further, I give unto each of them one cow apiece. Further, I give unto my said daughter Jane two of my silver spoons.

Fifthly, I give unto the heirs of my daughter Mary deced, namely Henry, Elijah, Mary, Martha & Abigail, a dollar a piece besides what I gave their mother.

Sixthly, I give unto my grandaughter Jane Ripley in consideration of her service with me, my best bed and furniture in the north chamber of my dwelling-house, and half a dozen flat-backd. chairs in said chamber, also one cow and thirteen pounds, six shillings & eight pence to be delivered and paid at my decease, the said thirteen pounds, six shillings & eight pence to be paid in houshold goods necessary for keeping house. –

Seventhly. I further give unto my daughters Sarah & Jane four of my largest pewter platters equally between them. –

Eighthly, My will is that since my said wife is now bereaved of the genuine exercise of her reason as aforesaid, and she continues so till death that her apparel go to my said daughters Sarah and Jane to be equally divided between them.

Ninthly, My will is that none of the Legacies before-mentioned be paid by my executor till after the decease of my wife, excepting that to my said grandaughter Jane.

Tenthly, I give and bequeath unto my said son Edward all my other personal estate of what name or nature soever excepting what is before mentioned. And he is hereby enjoined to provide and do for his mother as aforesaid, and to pay all my debts and funeral charges to provide for my servant Tom out of what I have herein given him.

        In witness and confirmation hereof, I have hereunto set my hand seal, the day and year aforesaid. ~

Signed, sealed, pronounced, published,

& declared by the said Edward Haward,                                                                        Edward Haward                              (seal)

as his Last will & testament in presence

of us the subscribers,

                                                Josiah Edson

                                                Ephraim Fobes

                                                Isaac Lathrop

 

Whereas the said Sarah Ripley named as a Legatee in the foregoing will and testament, has Lately deceased, I the above-named Edward Haward do therefore hereby give and bequeath the several articles mentioned in the said will & testament as given to the said Sarah unto the children of said Sarah, namely Solomon, Jane & Bethiah their heirs and assigns forever, to be divided in equal shares between them.  In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this twelfth day of September anno Domini 1768.

Signed, sealed & delivered                                                                                                Edward Haward                              (seal)

        in presence of

Robert Haward

Josiah Edson

Libeus Fobes

 

Presented for probate on 5 Aug. 1771 by Edward Haward, the Executor therein named, and proved by Josiah Edson and Ephraim Fobes, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Edward Haward, the Executor, with Josiah Edson, of Bridgwater, esquire, as surety.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 21, p. 1-3, from FHL microfilm #0550711.

 

 

Will and Codicil of Ephraim Haward of Bridgewater, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1749) *

In the Name of God Amen This 21st Day of August 1749, I Ephraim Haward of Bridgewater in the County of Plimouth in N. England Husbandman being Weak and infirm of body but thanks be to God–of perfect minde and memory Calling to mind the mortality of my body and knowing that it is appointed to all men once to Dy Do make and ordain this my Last will and Testament That is to say principally and first of all I recommend my Soul into the hands of him that Gave it and my body to the Earth by a Christen decent funaral at the Descretion of my Executors nothing Doughting but that at ye General Resurection I Shall receive the Same again by the mighty power of God and as touching that worldly Estate Which it hath pleased God to bless me with I give Demise and Dispose of it in mañor and form following ~~~~~~

Imprimis. I give and bequeath to my Beloved Wife Mary My Tenants, all my quick Stock and moveables within Doors and Without to Dispose of as She Sees fit together with the improvement of one half of my Dwelling house and Ten Acres of my home Land Where She is pleased to Take them during her Natural Life ~~~~

Item I give to my Son Ephraim all my Right and Titele in and to those Lands he now Lives upon together with alot of fifty acres on the other side of the River in Easton, the half of which Track of Land I have given him a deed of alredy and half aswamp Lot of medow adjoyning to Joseph Haywards Lying upon Cutting Cover River Eight acres of pine Swamp on the South Side of the Neck Whear he lives half my Right in the Cedar Swamp half my purchase Right in the undivided Lands in Bridgwater half a right in the greate Ceder Swamp Lying Southward of Edward Hayward Esqr in Easton and Two Sixteenth of my Iron Works in the North precinct in Bridgwater—

Item: I give - to my Son Daniel all my Right and Titele in and to the Lands Where he now Dwells together with one hundred acres more in the Northwest Corner of Bridgwater of the half of which Lands I have alredy given him adeed four acres of Cedar Swamp Lying Northeast from and Near to Edward Hayward Esqr. in Easton half a purchase Right in the undivided Lands with in the Eight Mile Line in Bridgwater & Two Sixteenths of my Iron Works in the North precinct in said Town

Item I give to my Son David my grist mill and all my interest in the Saw mill to gether with the Lands adjoyning as also half my house and Lands where I now Live Whereof I have already given him adeed a Lott of medow in flaggy[?] meadow Ten acres of Land upon The Beach Neack Near To Joseph Algers fifty acres in Easton near the Living that belongd to Zachariah Briggs three quarters of a purchase Right of undivided Lands in Easton half my Right in the Ceder Swamp in Bridgwater two Sixteenths of my forge in the North precente in Said Town together with Seventeen acres and an half of Land on the East Side of the Roade upon Salsbury plain ~~~

Item — I Give to my Daughter Susanna Jacobs the Sum of three hundred pounds in money to be paid her by my Executors hearafter named with in a year after my Decease —

Item, I give to the Children of my Daughter Martha Williams Deceast fifty acres of Land in Easton which I had given her adeed of as also about Ten or Twleve acres of Land adjoyning to thair fathers homestad both Which tracts I value at Three hundred pounds —

Item, I give to my Daughter Silence Burr Sixty acres of Land Lying in Bridgwater Joyning to the Land Which I Sold to my Son Ephram and Ten acres of it improved wich I value at three hundred pounds —

Item I give to my Daughter Mary Peirce the Sum of Three hundred pounds in mony to be paid her within the term of a year after my Deace By My Executors~~

I give to my grandaughters Silence Haward and Jane Dean the Children of my Elder Daughter Jane Washburn Deceasd the Sum of one hundred and fifty pounds to Each in Money to be paid them within ayear after my Decease by my Executors~~

Item I give to my granson David Haward junr, the one half of my Dwelling house after my Wives Decease & one half of my homsted Land the other half whereas I have already given to his father to gether with five acres of Swamp Land Lying upon Cutting Cover kiner So Called~~~

Finally – I Constitute and appoint my beloved Wife and my Son David to be the Executors of this my Last Will and Testament and bequeath to them all my money due to me upon bond or otherwise to pay my Just Debts my funeral Charges & the above mentioned Legacies Withal, and I do hereby utterly disallow Revoke and disanull all and Every Other former Testaments Will Legesses bequest and Executors by me anyways before Named Willed and bequeathd ratifeying and Confirming this and no other to be my Last Will and Testement in Witness Whereof I have herunto Set my hand and Seal the Day and year above written

Signed Sealed published                                                                                                    Ephraim Howard                             (seal)

and Declaired in presence of

Danl. Perkins

Thomas Ames

Richd Perkins

 

A shedule or Codicil to Lieut Hawards will be it knoan to all men by these presents that Whereas I Ephraim Haward of Bridgwater in ye County of Plimouth in N. England Husbandman have made and declaired my Last Will and Testament in Wirting bearing date August ye 21st 1749 I the Said Ephraim Haward do by these presents ratify and Confirm ye Same onely that Imay be prevent the misunderstanding of Several passages in It my Will and meaining then Was and now is that ye Legecies which I have orderd my Executors to pay in money to Several of the heirs to Whom I have bequeathd Certain Sums of money is to be understood of What was then Called the old Tenor that of Land I gave adeed of gift of to my Son & Daughter William Joyntly to gether with the other Ten or Twelve acres mentioned in that bequest was the Whole of the Legacy that I Designd for the heirs of my Daughter William it being in proportion to what I had given my other Daughters and Whearas I may have some Small remainder of Estate not mentioned in my Will I would have it under Stood that it is my will that my Executors thairin mentioned Should have it to help pay the legacies Charges and debts Which I have obligaged them to discharge and my meining is that this Schedule be D judge apart and parcel of my Last Will and Testament and accordingly Except it be faithfully affirmed of Witness my hand this 7 day of Apr. 1750

Signed Sealed Published

& Declared

In the presents of

Danll. Perkins                                                                                                                        Ephraim Howard                             (seal)

Thomas Ames

Richard Perkins

 

Plim&c Septr-3-1750 this Will With the Shedule or Codicil hereto annexd being presented by the Executors thairin Named for probate the Said Thomas Ames and Richard Perkins Made Oath that they Saw the Said Ephram Haward Sign Seal and Deliver and heard him Declare this Instrument with the Codocil Annexd to be his Last Will and Testament and that they together with Dainial Perkins in his presence Subscribed as Witnesses to ye Will & Codicil & that according to the best of their Judgement he was then of sound minde –                      Before me Jno Cushing

                                                                                                Judge of probate

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 12, p. 87-89.

 

 

Will of George Haydon of Plymouth, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1763) *

                                                In the Name of God, Amen.

I George Haydon of Plimouth in the county of Plimouth marriner, being sensible of the certainty of death & uncertain of the time thereof & having a mind to dispose of my estate &c, do make this my last will & testament hereby revoking all my other & former wills.  First & principally I resign my soul into the hands of my merciful creator, trusting in the merits of Christ for pardon & eternal salvation, and my body to the dust to be decently buried according to the discretion of those that may be entrusted therewith, with respect to my estate after my just debts and the charge of burial is paid I dispose of it in manner following, viz,

Item, I give to my friend Lewis Bartlet a minor son of Mr. John Bartlet of Plimouth in the county of Plimouth aforesaid inn-holder (at my decease, & after paying my just debts & funeral charge as abovesaid) all my estate both real & personal in Plimouth or elsewhere, to him the said Lewis Bartlet & to his heirs & executors admins. & assigns forever to his or their use & behoof. ~

Further, I do appoint Mr. John Bartlet of Plimouth aforesaid, executor to this my last will & testament. In testimony of all which I have hereunto set my hand & seal at Plimouth January 2d. in the third year of the reign. of our sovereign Lord George the third of Great-Brittain, &c. annoque Domini 1763. ~

Signed, sealed, delivered & declared                                                                              George Haydon                                (seal)

                In presence of

Nathaniel Torrey

Samuel Nichols Nelson

Ephraim Spooner

 

Presented for probate on 18 May 1767 by John Bartlet of Plimouth inn-holder, and proved by Ephraim Spooner and Samll. Nichols Nelson, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted unto John Bartlet the Executor.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 19, p. 477, from FHL microfilm #0550711.

 

 

Will of Abner Hayward of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1788) *

In the Name of God Amen – I Abner Hayward of the town of Bridgwater, in the county of Plymouth, being in a weak state of bodily health, but of perfect mind and memory, thanks be give unto God, calling to mind the mortality of my body, and knowing that it is appointed for all men once to die, do make and ordain this my last will & testament, that is to say, principally & first of all, I Give & recommend my soul into the hand of almighty God, that gave it, & my body I recommend to the earth to be buried in decent christian burial, at the discretion of my Executor nothing doubting, but at the resurrection I shall recieve the same again, by the mighty power of God, and as touching such worldly Estate wherewith it has pleased God to bless me in this life, I Give demise, and dispose of the same, in the following manner and form, that is to say.

  First – I do not Give to Grace my well beloved wife, any thing in this my last will & testament, having before marriage given her a Security of a certain part of my Estate, as will thereby appear

  Also – To my well beloved Son Abner Hayward, I do not give any thing in this my last will & testament, having already given him what I proposed for him

    Thirdly – I Give to my well beloved daughter Susanna Hayward, all & every part of my Estate that I have not already disposed of, and I do also constitute and appoint my son in law, Capt. Edward Hayward to be sole Executor of this my last will & testament, and I do hereby Utterly disallow, revoke & disannul all & every Other former testaments, wills legacies, bequests and Executors, by me in any wise, before named, willed and bequeathed, Ratifying & confirming this & no other to be my last will & testament. In Witness whereof, I have hereunto Set my hand & Seal this twelfth day of July in the year of our Lord one thousand Seven Hundred & Eighty Eight

Signed, Sealed, Published, Pronounced & declared                                                                     his

by the said Abner Hayward, as his last will & tes-                                                          Abner  X  Hayward                         (seal)

tament in the presence of us, who in his presence                                                                         mark

& in the presence of each other have here to

Subscribed our names – Lydia Kinsley – Daniel Stone,  Elijah Howard

 

Presented for probate on 6 June 1796 by Edward Hayward, the Executor therein named, and proved by Lydia Kinsley and Elijah Howard, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Edward Hayward, Gentleman, of Bridgwater, the before named Executor, with Benjamin Parris of Pembroke, yeoman, and Elijah Hayward of Easton, County of Bristol, Esqr., as sureties.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 35, p. 525-527, from FHL microfilm #0550718.

 

 

Will of Azariah Hayward of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1802) *

In The Name of God Amen.— I Azariah Hayward of the town of Bridgwater, yeoman, being sick and weak in body, but of perfect mind & memory, thanks be given unto God, calling unto mind the mortality of my body, and knowing that it is appointed for all men once to die, do make & ordain this my last will & testament, that is to say, principally & first of all, I give & recommend my soul into the hands of almighty God that gave it, and my body, I recommend to the earth to be buried in decent christian burial, at the discretion of my Executor, nothing doubting but at the general resurrection, I shall recieve the same again by the mighty power of God; and as touching such worldly estate wherewith it hath pleased God to bless me with, in this life, I give, demise & dispose of the same, in the following manner and form.—

Item.—First, I Give and bequeath to my two sons Seth Hayward and Azariah Hayward, all my wearing apparell, to be divided between them. –

Item. – Also, I Constitute my son Davis Hayward Executor of this my last will & testament, and I give to him & my Daughter Lydia Hayward, I give all my other lands, Messuages & tenements, by them freely to possessed & enjoyed, with their giving to my loving Sister Bethiah Hayward, a new black Silk gown, and paying my lawful debts.— I do hereby utterly disallow, revoke & disannul all and every other former testaments, wills, legacies bequeathed & Executors by me in any wise before named, willed & bequeathed, ratifying & confirming this & no other to be my last will & testament. In witness whereof, I have hereunto set my hand & seal, this twenty sixth day of January one thousand, eighten & two

Signed Sealed Published, Pronoun-                                                                                              his

ced & declared by ye sd Azariah Hayward                                                                     Azariah  X  Hayward                         (seal)

as his last will & testament in ye presence                                                                                  mark

of us, who in his presence, & in ye presence

of each other have hereby subscribed our

names –                 Isaac Harlow

                                Sarah Conant

                                Freelove Whitman

 

Presented for probate on 6 Apr. 1802 by Davis Hayward, the Executor therein named, and proved by Isaac Harlow & Freelove Whitman, two of the witnesses.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 38, p. 24-25, from FHL microfilm #0550720.

 

 

Will of Benjamin Hayward of Bridgewater, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1732) *

In the name of God Amen the fourth Day of November-1732. I Benjamin Hayward of Bridgewater in the County of Plymouth in New-England being very Sick & weak of Body though of perfect Mind and Memory Thanks be given to God therefore Calling to Mind the Mortality of my Body & knowing that it is Appointed for all Men once to dy do Make & Ordain this my last Will & Testament that is to Say Principally & first of all I Commit my Soul into the hands of God who gave it & my Body I Commit to the Grave to be decently buried at the Discretion of my Executors & the Worldly Goods which God hath Given to me I Dispose of in the following manner viz.—

Itm I Give & Bequeath to my well beloved Wife Sarah Hayward ye. one half of the Improvemt. of my Homestead or home Living during her natural Life & two Cows & two Feather beds & ye. East End of the House & all the Houshold Goods during her natural Life as aforesd—

Itm I Give & Bequeath to my Son Benjamin Hayward all that my Tract of Land where ye Benjamin Hayward junr. House now standeth with the meadow adjoining to it & half a Right of Cedar Swamp lying in Pimpkin Bridge Swamp so called—

Itm I Give & Bequeath to my Daughter Sarah Hayward fifty Pounds in Bills of Credit and She hath already had fifty one Pounds—

Itm I Give & Bequeath to my Son Hezekiah Hayward all my home stead or home living after his Mothers Decease And it is to be Understood that my sd. Son Hezekiah is to Improve the One half of sd. Homestead after my Decease and I also Give to my said Son Hezekiah twenty & two acres of Land which I bought of Lieutenant Hudson lying upon the River & adjoining to ye. Land of Ebenezer Hayward on the one side & John Hooper on the other side & all my Right in the Pine Swamp lying near Richard Jennings his House in which Swamp Lieut. Hudson has a Right & also two Parcells of Meadow lying on Satuckett River ye. one lyeth on the South West Side of ye. River Which Lot I bought of Joseph Washburn ye 2d & ye Other Lot lyeth on the Northerly Side of ye River & in a Neck between Satuckett River & poor Meadow River which Meadow I bought of Jonathan Washburn & also the Seventh Part of a Purchase Right in Cowissett Cedar Swamp & ye one half of a Saw Mill lying near my House & all ye. moveable Estate within Door & without Money & all Excepting fifty Pound which I Willed away to my Daughter Sarah & fourty Pound which I Willed to my Son Jacob—

Itm I Give & Bequeath to my Son Jacob Hayward all that Tract of Land which I bought of Isaac Hayward lying in the Neck below Eleazer Aldens & also all my Right of Meadow lying with Lieut. Hudson on Herring Brook which I bought of Ichabod Standish & ye one half of my Cedar Swamp lying in Pimpkin Bridge Swamp so called & also fourty Pounds in Bills of Credit –

And I do hereby Appoint my Son Hezekiah Sole Executor of this my last Will and Testament hereby Revoking all other Wills & I do declare this & none other to be my last Will & Testament And in Witness whereof I the sd Benjamn Hayward have hereunto Set my hand & Seal ye Day & Year abovewritten

Signed Sealed Published & Prounced by ye. sd

Benjamn Hayward to be his last Will & Testament                                                      Benjamin Hayward                         (seal)

In Presence of us

Ephraim Lenard

Zechariah Whitman

Seth Michell

 

Proved by Zechariah Whitman and Seth Michell on 4 Feb. 1733[/34], and by Ephraim Lenard on 6 Mar. 1733/34. Letters of Administration were granted to Hezekiah Hayward, the Sole Executor, on 6 Mar. 1733[/34].

 

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 7, p. 1-2, from FHL microfilm #0550513.

 

 

Will of Betsey Hayward of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1856) *

                Know all men by these presents, that I, Betsey Hayward, of Bridgewater, in the County of Plymouth, and state of Massachusetts, single woman, being of sound disposing mind and memory, do make and publish this my last Will and Testament.

                First: I give to my brother Seth Hayward five dollars.

                Secondly: I give to Bethiah Hayward, all of my wearing apparel, and all of my house hold furniture of every description.

                Thirdly: I give and bequeath to my brother Luther Hayward, all of my real and personal estate, not herein otherwise disposed of, of every description, after paying my debts and funeral expenses.

                In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal, and published and declared this to be my last Will and Testament, in the presence of the Witnesses named below, this sixteenth day of July, in the year one thousand eight hundred and fifty six.

                Signed, sealed, published and declared by the said Betsey Hayward, as and for her last Will and Testament, in presence of us, who in her presence and in the presence of each other, and at her request have hereunto subscribed our names as Witnesses.

Solomon Hayward.

Samuel G. Winsor.                                                                                                              Betsey Hayward                               (seal)

Rhoda Harden.

 

Presented for probate on the last Tuesday of July, 1857, by Luther Hayward, the residuary Legatee, and proved by Solomon Hayward and Rhoda Harden, two of the witnesses. Letters testamentary were granted to Luther Hayward, residuary legatee, for the faithful discharge of said trust.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 99, p. 310-311, from FHL microfilm #0555644.

 

 

Will of Cornelius Hayward of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1812) *

        Be it remembered that I Cornelius Hayward of Bridgwater in the County of Plymouth Yeoman being infirm in Body but of sound Mind and Memory, do this seventh day of December Anno Domini one Thousand eight hundred & twelve make & publish this my last Will & Testament in Manner following that is to say –

                Imprimis. I give to my Brother John Hayward one hundred & seventy five Dollars to be paid by my Executor as is herein after directed. –

                Item. I give to the Heirs of my Brother Silvanus Hayward deceased one hundred & seventy five Dollars –

                Item I give to my Sister Jemima the Wife of David Snow one hundred & seventy five Dollars –

                Item I give to my Sister Hannah Wife of Thomas Hayward one hundred & seventy five Dollars, this & the other Legacies above mentioned are to be paid by my Executor hereafter named in two years after my Decease

                Item I give to my sister Tabitha a right in my house & a comfortable maintenance out of my Estate during her Life –

                Item I give to my Niece Experience Hayward one undivided half of my Dwelling house; one half of my Homestead, all my Household Goods, one half of my Pew in the Revd. Dr. Reed’s Meeting house — and my Clock. —

                Item. I bequeath to my Nephew Jacob Hayward, one half of my House my out Houses, one half of my Homestead all my out Lands, farming Tools wearing apparel, Oxen Cows sheep & Horse. I also give to him all the Debts which may be owing to me at my decease, he paying all the just debts which I may owe & the above Legacies as above described. I also give to my Nephew Jacob Hayward, all my Estate Real & personal not herein before bequeathed & devised, wherever the same may be found, to hold to him his Heirs & assigns forever & lastly I do constitute & ordain my Nephew Jacob Hayward sole Executor of this my last Will & Testament —  In Testimony whereof I do hereunto set my hand & Seal the day & Year above written —

                                                                                                                                                Cornelius Hayward                        (seal)

Signed sealed published pronounced & declared by the said

Cornelius Hayward as & for his last Will & Testament in

the presence of us who at his request & in his presence

hereunto set our Names as Witnesses to the same

                Hector Orr

                Daniel Hayward Junr.

                Preston Packard –

 

Presented for probate on 6 April 1813 by Jacob Hayward, the Executor therein named, and proved by Daniel Hayward Junr. and Preston Packard, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Jacob Hayward, the before named Executor.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 44, p. 515-516, from FHL microfilm #0550903.

 

 

Will of Edward Hayward of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1801) *

   In the Name of God amen I Edward Hayward of Bridgwater in the County of Plymouth Yeoman being of a sound disposing Mind, do make & ordain this to be my last will and Testament. and in the first place I recommend my Soul to God, who gave it & my Body to be buried with decent Christian Burial at the Discretion of my Executor hereafter named and with respect to my worldly Estate I dispose of the same in Manner following viz —

                Imprimis I give and bequeath to my dearly beloved Wife Jenny Hayward the whole of my household Furniture and one half of my quick Stock to be at her disposal. Also the Improvement of one half of my real Estate during her natural Life–

                Item I give and bequeath to my Nephew Calvin Hayward the whole of my real and personal Estate not already disposed of, he to enter into possession of one half of my real Estate at my decease & the other half at the decease of my Wife to him his Heirs and assigns forever.—And I hereby order the said Calvin Hayward to pay all my just Debts, funeral Expences & Costs of settling my Estate –

                Item I do hereby constitute and appoint Edward Mitchell the third my Wife’s Brother sole Executor of this my last Will & Testament.—ratifying and confirming this to be my last Will and Testament – In Testimony Whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this twenty-fourth day of October in the Year of our Lord one Thousand eight hundred & one—

signed sealed published & declared by

the said Edward Hayward to be his last

Will and Testament in presence of us.                                                                             Edward Hayward                            (seal)

Beza Hayward

Hezekiah Hayward

Peter Conant 2d.

 

Presented for probate on 5 Oct. 1818 by Edward Mitchell Junr. the Executor therein named, and proved by Beza Hayward Esqr and Peter Conant 2d., two of the witnesses thereto subscribed, Hezekiah Hayward being now deceased. Letters of Administration were granted to Edward Mitchell junr., the before named Executor.

 

Silvanus Pratt, yeoman, Abram Washburn and Thomas Alden, yeomen, all of Bridgwater, were appointed to appraise the Estate of Edward Hayward, late of Bridgwater, yeoman, on 5 Oct. 1818. The Inventory of the Estate of Edward Hayward, late of Bridgwater, not dated, totaled $4127.85, including his real estate valued at $2974. Edward Mitchell junr., the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 1 Feb. 1819.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 49, p. 480-481, from FHL microfilm #0550905, and Vol. 50, p. 41-42.

 

 

Will of Elijah Hayward of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1805) *

In the Name of God amen. I Elijah Hayward of Bridgwater in the County of Plymouth Yeoman, being of a sound & disposing Mind do make this my last Will & Testament, recommending my Soul to God who gave it & my Body to be buried at the discretion of my Executors hereafter named & with respect to my Estate both real & personal, I dispose of the same in manner following, viz

                Imprimis I give & bequeath unto my dearly beloved Wife Mary Hayward one third part of my personal Estate after payment of my Debts & Charges of settling my Estate, to be hers forever. I also give her the Improvement of one third part of my real Estate during her natural Life, except my Cedar swamp, called Pinquin Bridge Swamp, & my Interest in the great River Mills; and also the Improvement of all my real & personal Estate hereafter mentioned, being given to my Children, each Child’s Share to be holden by her severally during his Minority, provided however that should my Wife marry again her right not only of one third part of my real Estate above-mentioned, the Improvement whereof I have given to her, but each Child’s Share, which may be in her hands, whereof I have given her the Improvement shall immediately terminate, & the same shall immediately vest in my Children in the same manner as though she were deceased –

                Item I order my Executors hereafter named to sell & convey by good & sufficient Deeds my Cedar Swamp called Pinquin Bridge Swamp being the same Swamp that I purchased of Nicholas Whitman, also all my right and Interest in the Great River Mills, so called, situated at the south westerly Corner of my Homestead & to appropriate the Monies arising from said Sales for the payment of my Debts & settlement of my Estate. —

                Item I give & bequeath to my five Sons Elijah Hayward, Edson Hayward, Erastus Hayward, Edward Hayward & Bela Hayward all my Estate both real & personal not already disposed of to be equally divided between them, & to come into possession of the same as they shall severally arrive to the Age of twenty one Years or sooner should their Mother before that time either marry or decease, excepting however one third part of the real Estate whereof the Improvement is given to my Wife during her Life & continuing my Widow; each Child’s Share thereof to remain in the possession & Improvement of their Mother during her Life, provided she continues my Widow otherways upon her decease or marrying again the same shall vest immediately in my Children severally –

                Item I do hereby constitute & appoint Benjamin Pope of said Bridgwater Gentleman & my oldest Son Elijah Hayward joint Executors of this my last Will & Testament – ratifying & confirming this to be my last Will & Testament & disallowing of any other - & in Testimony of all which, I have hereunto set my hand & Seal the twentieth day of April in the Year of our Lord one Thousand eight hundred & five.–

Signed, sealed, published & declared

by the said Elijah Hayward to be

his last Will & Testament in presence of

                Beza Hayward                                                                                                     Elijah Hayward                                (seal)

                John Hooper

                John Harden

 

Presented for probate on 23 Nov. 1815 by Benjamin Pope and Elijah Hayward, the Executors therein named, and proved by Beza Hayward Esqr., one of the witnesses thereto subscribed, John Hooper and John Harden being since deceased. Letters of Administration were granted to Benjamin Pope and Elijah Hayward, the before named Executors.

 

To the Hon Joshua Thomas Esquire Judge of Probate of Wills &c for the County of Plymouth –

This is to signify to your Honour that I have thought proper to wave, and I do hereby wave the provision made for me in the Will of my last Husband Elijah Hayward late of Bridgwater in said County deceased and claim my Dower of his Estate; I therefore pray that your Honour would order the same to be assigns and set off to me as the Law in such cases directs Dated at Bridgwater aforesaid the twenty third day of November in the Year of our Lord one Thousand eight hundred & fifteen –

                                                                                                                                                Mary Hayward

 

Nathaniel Pratt, Gentleman, Silvanus Pratt and Howe Keith, Yeomen, all of Bridgwater, were appointed to appraise the Estate of Elijah Hayward, late of Bridgwater, yeoman, on 23 Nov. 1815. The Inventory of the Estate of Elijah Hayward, late of Bridgwater, Yeoman, not dated, totaled $4239.18, including his real estate, valued at $3552. The appraisers gave their oath to the inventory on 2 Nov. 1815, and Benjamin Pope and Elijah Hayward, the Executors, gave their oath to the inventory on 4 Dec. 1815.

 

Nathaniel Pratt, Gentleman, Silvanus Pratt and Howe Keith, yeomen, all of Bridgwater and all Freeholders, were appointed to set off to the Widow Mary Hayward her Dower in the Real Estate of Elijah Hayward, late of Bridgwater, yeoman, on 4 Dec. 1815. The division was dated 16 Feb. 1816, and approved on 3 Feb. 1817.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 47, pp. 356-357, 358, 383-385, from FHL microfilm #0550904, and Vol. 48, p. 349-351.

 

 

Will of Elisha Hayward of Bridgewater, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1703) *

This this twentieth day of may Anno domini 1703 I Elisha Hayward of Bridgewater in the County of Plymouth in New-England Husbandman being at pesent in some Measure in helth & of sound mind & memory praises be Rendered to God for the same yet Calling to mind the unsertainty of my Life on Earth & Desirous to settle that out ward Estate that the Lord hath blesed me with & minding that after my Deceas the same shall be Imployed & bestowed as herein shall be Exprest Doe therefore make and ordain & Declare this to be my Last will & Testament as followeth that is to say—first & principally I commit & commend my soul to God that Gave it & my body to Decent buriall when it shall pleas god to take me hence & touching my sd outward & worly Estate I hereby order and dispose of the same as followeth — — — —

Impr I Give & bequeath to my well beloved brother Joseph Hayward my tw ten acre Lots of Land Lying in Bridgewater aforesd & are in or adjoyning to a swamp Called center swamp & is in or on the Easterly side of the sd swamp to hold the sd two Lots to him sd Joseph Hayward his heirs & assigns for Ever I also Give to the sd Joseph my Great bible —

Item I Give & bequeath unto my kinsman Thomas Hayward son of the sd Joseph that my 50 acre Lot of Land in sd bridgewater Lying at ye River on the Esterly side of the neck Called Johns bridge neck according as the sd Lot is bounded forth Together with my 20 acre Lot adjoyning to the sd 50 acres sd 20 acres abuting on the town River & was some Times the Lot of Richard Jenings — —

farther I Give to the sd Thomas hayward my 10 acre Lot of Land Lying in the neck on ye southerly side of the Great swamp adjoyning to the Land of my brother Edward Mitchell I furder Give to my sd kinsman Thomas Hayward my seven acres of Land Lying to the south East of the sd Land of Edward Mitchell Extending to the Land of Joseph Aldon on the Easterly side of the Great hill —

Item I Give & bequeath unto my two kinsmen Namely to Thomas the son of my brother John Hayward & to Thomas the son of my brother Nathaniel Howard my 30 acres of Land Lying between ye Land of John Packard & the Land of Richard Jenings. I further Give to two kinsmen Last mentioned my Lot of one & twenty acres of Land Laid out to me at the head of the sd 30 acres  I further give to my sd two kinsman my piece or parcell of meadow Lying between the two Last mentioned parcells of Land & the Land of Richard Jenings — —

Item I Give & bequeath unto my well beloved sister Mary the wife of Edward Mitchell the sum of ten pounds in silver mony  Item all the Rest & Residue of my Lands that shall Remain undisposed of at my Decease I hereby Give & bequeath the same to my brother Joseph Hayward abovesd & to my brother in Law Edward Mitchell Equally between them all the above given Lands which are scituate & being within the Township of Bridgwater in the County of plymouth aforesd with Every of their Rites members & appurtinances to belong & to appertain to the severall & Respective Legatees as above Exprest and to their severall heirs & assignes forever  Item further I Give unto my sd brothers Joseph Hayward & Edward Mitchell all my goods Chatils & Credits which I shall Leave undisposed of at the time of my Decease to be then Equally parted between them my sd brother & brother in Law  Lastly I do nominate & apoint my sd brothers namely Joseph Hayward & Edward Mitchell to be Joynt Executors in this my Last Will & Testament. By these pesents Nullifying & makeing void any former will or wills by me made Either verball or writen & this onely to be taken for my Last will & Testament In CoTestimony whereof & in full Confirmation of the same I the sd Elisha Hayward have here unto set my hand & seal on the day & Year first above Writon

                                                                                                                                                Elisha Hayward                                (seal)

Signed Sealed & Declared by the sd

Elisha hawyard to be his Last will &

Testament In pesents of us Witnesses

Samuell Sprague

Nathan Sprague

John Sprague

Jams Sprague

 

Memorand: That on the 22 day of September 1710 John Sprague & James Sprague made Oath that they saw the above named Elisha Hayward Sign & seal this Instrument & herd him Declare it to be his Last will & Testament & that he was then of Disposing mind & memory to the best of their Judgments & that their father Samuel Sprague & brother Nathan Sprague Signed with them at the same Time as witnesses to the same before me

                                                                                                                                                Nathll Thomas  J. of Probate

 

An Inventory of the Estate of Elisha Hayward of the Town of Bridgewater who deceased August 6: 1710, was appraised by Isaac Johnson & John feild on Sept. the 4 1710, not totaled, sworn to by the executors, Ensign Edward Mitchell & Joseph Hayward, on 22 Sept. 1710.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 2, pp. 165-168, from FHL microfilm #0550748, this will is a gem in proving relationships, including those of the witnesses.

 

 

Will of Elisha Hayward of Bridgewater, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1748) *

In The Name of God Amen. The Twenty Eight Day of September One thousand Seven hundred & forty Eight I Elisha Haward of Bridgewarter In the County of plimouth In New England Being Weake In body But of perfect mind the Mortality of my Body and know that It Is appointed for all men once to Dy Do make and ordaine this my Last will and Testament that Is To Say principly and first of all I give and Recomend my Soul into the hands of god that gave it and my Body I Recommend To the Earth to be buriead in a Decent Christian burial at the Discreation of my Executor nothing Doughting but at the genaral Resurrection I Shall Receive ye. Same again by ye. Mighity power of God and as Touching Such Worly Estate Whair With It hath plesed god to bles me In this Life I give Demise and Dispose of the Same In The following Manner and form

I give and Bequeath to Abigail my Well beloved Wife all ye. hous hold Stuff and goods that was her own before marriage for Ever and To my other Estate I give her ye. Improvement of the Best fier Room In my house and half ye. Cellor fire wood Cut fit for the fire So much as She Shall Need while She Lives in Said house and to be Delivered at Said house and Eight Bushels of Indin Corn Two bushels of Rye Ten pounds of flax yearly and Every year to Be Delivered to hier While She Remains my Widdow and the use of a good Milck Cow and the use of half my houshold stuff Excepting What was my Second Wifes the Improvement of these things as Well as the sd. House I give To her as Long as she Remans my Widdow and No Longer

Item I give to my Well beloved Son Elisha Hayward the Seventh part of four Lots formely Laid out to Occuts purches In the West Ceder Swamp So Called In Bridgewater and Twenty five pounds Lawful mony to Be paid to him out of my Estate within Seven years after my my youngest Son Ezra Hayward Comes of age he haveing all Redy Recved the other part of his portion

Item I give to my Well Beloved Son Abner Hayward Whome I Likewise Consitute make and ordaine my Sole Executer of this my Last Will and Testement Seven acers and a half of Land part of it Lying Betwen his home Lands and the Land of Samuel Hartwell and part of it Joyns to the Land Which Belongs to the heirs of John Lothrop Deceast and the Seventh part of four Lots formerly Laid out to Orcutts purcheas in the west Ceder Swampe So Called in Bridgewater and the one half of my part of the purchas Rite With In the Eight mile to gether with Sixteen acers of Land to Lay out on the Pine Grants and all my part in Willis Shair in the sd West Ceder Swamp by him his heirs and assigns freely to Be possest and Enioyed he having all Redy Received the other part of his portion

Item I give to my Well beloved Son Ezra Hayward all my home Lands and Living With the Buildings thairon to gether with Seven Acers and half of Land Lying In a place known by the Name of Woolf trap field and Joyns to the home Lands of Isaac Willis and the home Lands of Samuel Edson With all my Lands on the Esterly Side of the Town River be their more or Less Being Cheifly Within fence and Joyning to the Home Lands of John Willis and Butting up on Said River and also thirty acers of Land Joyning to the hom Lands of Joseph Washburn and upon the four mile Line Running from Said Line Southerly Till it makes thirty acers With all my Ceder Swampy undisposed of by this my Last will and Testement and one half of my purches Right with in the Eight mile So Called Being of undivided Land, To gether With my Cart and Wheals and all my husbandry tools of What Sort So Ever with all my horse kind and four oxen and two Cows he performing my Will to my well Beloved Wife Abigail as is Exprest in this my Last will and Testament and paying to my Son Elisha Hayward the Twenty five pound according to this my Will as afore sd. Shall freely posses and Enioy the Several percels of Land Buldings and Chattles to him and his heirs and assigns for Ever

Item I give to my well Beloved Daughter Experence the wife of Benja. Cortis one heifer one Bed and fifteen pounds old Tener which her husband owes me She having Rced part of her portion –

Item I give to my well Beloved Daughter Hannah ye. Wife of John Snow one Loomb and Warping Bloocks She having Re’d part of her portion Before now

Item Give to my well Beloved Daughter Tabitha the wife of Jacob Hayward Junr. one heifer and a warping Slay She having Rec,d part of her portion Before Now –

Item I give to my well Beloved Daughter Bethia the Wife of Thomas Willis one Cow She having Red. part of her portion Before Now

Item Give to my well Beloved Daughter Naomy the Wife of Joseph Alger Junr. one Loomb & two Weavers Slays She having Recd. part of her portion Before now

Item I give to my five Daughters Experence ye. Wife of Benjamin Cuttiss, Hannah the wife of John Snow Tabitha the wife of Jacob Hayward Jnr. Bethia the wife of Thomas Willis and Naomy the wife of Joseph Alger Junr. thirty acers of Land to be Equely Divided Betwen them sd. thirty four acers Lies at the Southerly End at the thirty acers which I have given to my Son Ezra Hayward by this my Last Will and Testment and is apart of the Same Lote Like Wise I give all my moveabl Estate which is Not mentined In these preasents to my Said five Daughters to Be Equely Divided among them Excepting my hay which I Reserve for my Stock of Cattle to feed on In ye. Winter and my Corn and my Swine and one Beast for Beaf and all my flax I Reserve for the use and Support of my Dearly Beloved wife and famely So Long as it will Last them and I Do herby Utterly Dissalow Revoke Dissanul all and Every Other Former Testements Wills Leagacies and Bequests and Executors by Me In any Ways Before Named Willed and Bequeath’d Ratifing and Confirming This and No Other To Be my Last will and Testament In Witness Where of I have here unto Set my hand and Seal the Day and year above Written Signed Sealed

Published pronounced and Declared by the Said

Elisha Haywerd as his Last Will and Testement

In the presents of us the Subscribers                                                                                Elisha Hayward                (seal)

Isaac Willis

Stoughton Willis

John Willis

 

Presented for probate on 7 Nov. 1748 by the Execr. therein named and proved by Isaac Willis and John Willis, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Abner Hayward of Bridgewater, yeoman, the Executor.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 12, p. 40-43, from FHL microfilm #0551539.

 

 

Will of Grace Hayward of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1802) *

In the Name of God Amen. – I Grace Hayward of Bridgwater in the County of Plymouth & State of Massachusetts, Spinster, being in a weak state of body & calling to mind the uncertainty of life, but being of sound mind & memory, do make and publish this my last will and testament, in manner & form following vizt –

First – I Give & bequeath unto my sister Hannah Dailie, one half my wearing apparell, & to my Niece Desiah Hervey, the wife of Oliver Hervey, the other half, to be equally divided between them

2d – I Give & bequeath unto my Cousin Josiah Turner, a Note which I have against him

3d – I Give & bequeath unto my Niece Molly Lothrop, a Note which I have against her husband Daniel Lothrop.–

4th.– I Give & bequeath unto Grace Turner, the daughter of William Turner my great bible.–

5th.– I Give & bequeath unto Charity Bryant, a Note I have against Elijah Packard for Fifty Dollars

6th– I Give & bequeath unto Daniel Bryant Nine Dollars

Lastly.– after my just debts & funeral charges are paid, the residue & remainder of my estate, I Give, one half to my Sister Dailie, the other half to be equally divided amongst the children of my brother Abiezer Turner deceased, & the children of my Sister Desiar Turner deceased.— And I do hereby constitute & appoint Dr~. Philip Bryant Sole Executor of this my last will & testament – and, I do hereby revoke all former wills or testament by me made. —In Witness whereof, I have hereunto Set my hand & Seal, this third day of June Anno Domini, Eighteen Hundred & two.

Signed, Sealed & Published by                                                                                                    her

ye. sd. Grace Hayward, to be her last                                                                               Grace  X  Hayward                             (seal)

will & testament in presence of us,                                                                                          mark

who have hereunto subscribed our

names as witnesses

                John Willis

                Nathan Randall

                Ebenezer Packard

 

Presented for probate on 12 July 1802 by Philip Bryant, ye. Executor therein named, and proved by Nathan Randall and Ebenezer Packard, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Philip Bryant, ye. before named Executor.

 

Danl Manly junr, yeoman, Mark Perkins and Asaph Hayward, Gentlemen, all of Bridgwater, were appointed to appraise the estate of Grace Hayward, late of Bridgwater, Spinster, on 12 July 1802. The inventory, dated 15 July 1802, totaled $751.55, including $447.70 in notes of hand, but no real estate. Philip Bryant, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 2 Aug. 1802.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 38, pp. 131-132, 146-147, from FHL microfilm #0550720.

 

 

Will of Hannah Hayward of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Massachusetts Bay (1784) *

In the Name of God Amen – I Hannah Hayward of Bridgwater in the County of Plymouth in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Single woman, being weak and infirm in body but of Sound mind, memory & understanding and Contemplating the uncertainty of human Life in General, and of my own in particular, do make and publish this my Last Will and testament in manner and form following to wit—In the first place I Commit my immortal Soul to the God that first Gave it existence, humbly presuming upon the pardon of my Sins and an entrance into eternal Life and blessedness thro’ the mediation & atonement of our blessed Redeemer – my body I Commit to its native Earth to be buried in a decent and becoming manner at the discretion of my Executor herein after named ~

Also – I Give and bequeath to my dear brother Thomas Hayward the Sum of Six pounds Lawful Silver money. ~

Also – I Give and bequeath to my dear Sister Joanna Snow the widow of David Snow Late of said Bridgwater deceased, the Sum of Six pounds Lawful Silver money – together with one Quarter part of my wearing Apparell, and one Quarter part of all my houshold furniture, after the decease of my Sister Sarah Hayward herein after mentioned

Also– I Give and bequeath to my dear Sister Sarah Hayward the sum of Six pounds Lawful Silver money–together with my Cow, and my right in the three Sheep which I now own and possess jointly with the said Sarah –and I further Give and bequeath to the said Sarah Hayward the full and Sole use and improvement of all my houshold furniture of what nature or kind Soever during her natural Life.~

Also – I Give and bequeath to the five Children of my brother Benjamin Hayward Late of said Bridgwater deceased, herein after mentioned the sum of ten pounds – to wit, Sarah Snell the wife of Issachar Snell, Joseph Hayward Mary Snell the wife of Zebedee Snell, Benjamin Hayward & Cary Hayward the said Sum of ten pounds so Given and bequeathed to the said five Children of my said deceased brother, to be equally divided between them. ~

Also – I Give and bequeath to Samuel Dunbar junr. of said Bridgewater my beloved nephew, the sum of Forty Shillings. ~

Also – I Give and bequeath to Mehitabel Copeland the wife of Jonathan Copeland junr, and to Melatiah Howard the wife of Jesse Howard the sum of four pounds Lawful money–together with one Quarter part of my wearing apparell, and one quarter part of all my houshold furniture after the decease of my Sister Sarah Hayward, the said sum of four pounds, together with the said apparell and furniture so Given and bequeathed to the said Mehitabel and Melatiah, to be equally divided between them.~

Also – I Give and bequeath to Sarah Snow the daughter of Elijah Snow Six Shillings Lawful money.–

Also – I Give and bequeath to Joseph Snow the Sum of Six pounds Lawful money, together with my Right to and property in a pew in the meeting house of the west precinct in said Bridgewater – Said pew being upon the Lower floor in the South East Corner of said meeting House, and my right to and property in the same being one Quarter part thereof–to have and to hold the said Quarter part of said pew, to him his Heirs and assigns forever.~

Also – I Give and bequeath to Hannah Snow the wife of Daniel Snow the sum of fifteen pounds Lawful Silver money–together with one half of my wearing apparell, and one half of all my Houshold furniture after the decease of my sister Sarah Hayward before mentioned

Also – I Give and bequeath to my dear Nephew Daniel Hayward the sum of fifteen pounds Lawful money.~

And – Lastly, I do hereby nominate and appoint the above named Joseph Snow Sole Executor of this my Last will and testament, to act and do Respecting the same and the Estate that I shall die Seized and possessed of, all that an Executor by Law ought and is empowered to act, do and perform — and further my Will is, that if their should be any Goods, effects or monies Remaining after the payment of all my just debts, funeral Expences, and the Legacies herein before Given and bequeathed, then my Will is that the said Remainder, Residue or Surplusage of Goods, effects or moneys shall be and Remain, and I do hereby Give and bequeath the same to the above named Joseph Snow, Hannah Snow, and Daniel Hayward, to be equally divided between them — In witness whereof I have hereunto Set my hand and Seal this twenty first day of September in the year of our Lord one thousand, seven hundred and Eighty four

Signed Sealed, published and declared by the

above named Hannah Hayward, as and for                                                                                    her

her Last Will & testament, in the presence of                                                                Hannah  X  Hayward          (seal)

us who have hereunto Subscribed our names                                                                            mark

as witnesses thereto in the presence of sd. testator

and in the presence of each Other. –

                Edward Howard

                John Davis –

                Benjamin Marshall

 

Presented for probate on 7 March 1785 by Joseph Snow, the Executor therein named, and proved by John Davis and on the 16th day of April next following by Benjamin Marshall, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Joseph Snow, the before named Executor.

 

Edward Howard Esqr, Daniel Howard yeoman and Benjamin Marshall yeoman, all of Bridgwater, were appointed to appraise the estate of Hannah Hayward, late of Bridgwater, Single woman, on 7 Mar. 1785. The Inventory of the Estate of Hannah Hayward, late of Bridgwater, dated 4 Apr. 1785, totaled £195.6.2, no real estate, but included bonds & notes valued at £137. Joseph Snow, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 2 May 1785.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 29, pp. 241-243, 273-274, from FHL microfilm #0550715.

 

 

Will of Hezekiah Hayward of Bridgewater, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1773) *

  In the name of God Amen – On the fifth day of May Anno Domini one thousand, seven hundred and seventy three - I Hezekiah Hayward of Bridgwater in the county of Plymouth, yeoman, being in health, and of a sound and disposing mind and memory, proceed now to make this my Last will and testament. In the first place, I Give and recommend my Soul into the hands of God who gave it, trusting in his mercy through Jesus Christ for pardon, grace and glory, and my body I commit to the earth to be decently buried at the discretion of my executors hereafter named and as to my worldly Interest I dispose of it in the following manner vizt– my will is that all my just debts & funeral charges should be discharged by my executors in convenient time after my decease, out of that part of my estate which I have given them

Item, I Give and bequeath unto my well beloved wife the improvement of one half of my real estate which I have given deeds of, to my Sons and reserved the same therein. also the improvement of all my Indoor moveables or Houshold Goods, during the time she shall continue my widow. and one third of my Houshold Goods to be intirely at her dispose

Item – I Give and bequeath unto my Son Elijah, besides what I have given him by Deed, a Bed & bedding, Six red chairs, when my wife shall have done with them and one Quarter of my apparell at my decease

Item – I Give unto my Son Hezekiah one bed & bedding allso my Desk & one fire lock, also one half of my Quick Stock, & one half of all my farming tools & implements & one Quarter of my Apparell all this besides what I have given him by deed

Item – I Give & bequeath unto my Son Ziba, besides what I have given him by deed one Bed & Bedding, a fire Lock and Sword, one Quarter of my apparell & my best tea table.~

Item – I Give and bequeath unto my Son Edward, besides what I have given him by deed, my Largest brass kettle, one quarter of my apparell also one half of my Quick stock, and one half of all my husbandry tools and Implements.

Item – I Give and bequeath unto my Daughter Huldah wife to Calvin Peirce, twenty six pounds thirteen shillings & four pence, to be paid in twelve months after my decease by my executors, further I Give unto her all my other houshold Goods or indoor moveables not before disposed of

Item – I Give unto my said Sons Hezekiah and Edward all demands that I have on any persons whomsoever by book, bond or note, also all my Cash, also my meat tubs & Cyder barrels to be equally divided between them

Item – I Give unto my said five Children all my books to be equally divided between them

Item – I do hereby nominate and appoint my said sons Hezekiah & Edward Sole executors of this my Last will & testament. In Witness whereof I have hereunto Set my hand & Seal, the day & year aforesaid

Signed, Sealed, published, pronounced

& declared by the said Hezekiah Hay-                                                                           Hezekiah Hayward                         (seal)

ward as his Last will & testament

in presence of us

                Josiah Edson

                Seth Alden

                Joshua Alden

 

Presented for probate on 6 Sept. 1790 by Hezekiah Hayward and Edward Hayward, the Executors therein named, and proved by Joshua Alden, one of the witnesses thereto subscribed, Josiah Edson and Seth Alden being deceased. Letters of Administration were granted to Hezekiah Hayward and Edward Hayward, the before named executors.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 31, p. 261-263, from FHL microfilm #0550716.

 

 

Will of Jacob Hayward of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Massachusetts Bay (1778) *

In the name of God amen February 28th 1778, I, Jacob Hayward of Bridgwater, in the County of Plymouth Husbandman, being now of a disposing mind & memory, yet calling to mind the mortality of my body & knowing that tis appointed unto all men once to die, do make & Ordain this my Last Will & testament, that is principally & first of all, I recommend my Soul into the hands of God who Gave it and my body I recommend to the Earth to be buried with a Christian decent burial at the discretion of my Executor hereafter named, in hope of a Glorious resurrection and as to my worldly Estate wherewith it has pleased God to bless me, I Give & dispose of the same in the following manner & form

1st—Tis my Will that all my debts & funeral charges be well & truly paid in convenient time after my decease ~

2d—I Give & bequeath unto my well beloved wife Martha, the South room & chamber over it in the house where I now dwell, the use of the Well, kitchin & Cellar as much as she shall think necessary, two Cows & the keeping of them, through the year, a sufficiency of fire wood at the door, twelve pounds of Flax yearly and the use of an horse when she think it needful. I further add Nine Bushells of Indian Corn, three Bushells of Rye, and a Quarter of Beef provided for her yearly ~

3d—I Give & bequeath to my well beloved Son Jacob Hayward, besides what I have allready Given him One half my pew in the South meeting House of Bridgwater, the Other half of said pew to my son Benjamin, to them, heirs & assigns forever ~

4—I Give & bequeath unto my well beloved son Benjamin Hayward, all my homestead Buildings, utensills, all my Out Lands, and all my Stock of Cattle, not above disposed off, to him, his Heirs and assigns forever

5—I Give & bequeath to my well beloved daughter Martha Allen, besides what I have already Given her, Five shillings & no more ~

6—Finally I constitute & appoint my well beloved Son Benjamin, Sole Executor of this my Last Will & testament, confirming this & no other to be my Last will & testament as Witness my hand the day & year above written

Signed, Sealed, published, pronounced &                                                                      Jacob Hayward                                (seal)

declared by me Jacob Hayward as my Last

Will & testament in presence of ~

                Seth Pratt

                Job Pratt

                Calvin Edson

 

Presented for probate on 7 Sept. 1778 by Benjamin Hayward, the Executor therein named, and proved by Seth Pratt and Job Pratt, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Benjamin Sole [sic], the before named Executor.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Deacon Jacob Hayward, late of Bridgwater, was appraised on 28 Sept. 1778 by Seth Pratt, Job Pratt, and Zeckariah Whitman, and totaled £1688.7.~, including his real estate valued at £990. Benjamin Howard [sic], the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 5 Oct. 1778.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 25, p. 48-49, from FHL microfilm #0550713.

 

 

Will of Joseph Hayward of Bridgewater, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1718) *

In The Name of God Amen. The Nineteenth day of June In the Year of Our Lord One Thousand Seven hundred & Eighteen. I Joseph Hayward of the Town of Bridgwater In the County of Plymouth In New England Yeoman – being of perfect mind and memory praised be God therefore Calling to mind the Mortality of my body and knowing that it is Appointed for all men Once to dye do make and Ordain this my Last Will and Testament. That is to Say principally and first of all I Give and bequeath my Soul into the hand of God who Gave it, and my body to the Earth to be buried in decent Christian Burial at the discretion of my Executors Nothing doubting but at the Generall Resurrection I Shall receive the Same again by the Mighty power of God. And as Touching such Worldly Estate wherewith it hath Pleased God to Bless me in this Life I Give demise and dispose of the Same in the following Manner & form. Impr. I Give and Bequeath unto Hannah my wellbeloved wife the Use and Improvement of my housing and Lands whereon I dwell Containing about Twenty Six Acres and about Sixty acres Toward Small Gain in The Swamp during her Life, or so Long as she remains my Widdow: Also I Give her all My money Houshold Goods and debts whatsoever and wheresoever with Such a part of my Stock as she shall desire for her Use while She Lives which Shall also be at her dispose after her decease all Excepting my books. Item I Give and bequeath Unto my Eldest Son Joseph Hayward all that Tract of Land Lying On Cowisel River Whereon he hath built Containing about One hundred & Ten Acres with fifteen Acres On the Southeast Corner of the Neck Whereon he Lives. Together with Fifty Three Acres of Land Above West meadow One Lot in the Meadow and An Acre adjoyning on the West side a Lot of Meadow in Coasters Kitchin, And Two Thirds of a half a Share in Cutting-Cove Cedar Swamp and half a purchase Right In the Undivided Lands in Bridgwater all which I Give to him and his heirs forever. —

Item I Give and Bequeath to my Second Son Thomas Hayward all the Housing and HomeLands before mentioned after his Mothers decease; And Imediately after my decease Twenty Acres at Matfield and a purchase Right in the meadow Lands a Share & a Quarter in the Old Cedar Swamp and a Third part of half a Share in the West Swamp, And a half purchase right In the Undivided Lands in Bridgwater All which I Give to him and his heirs for ever

Item I have Given by deed to my Third Son Edward Hayward Sundry Lands In Taunton North Purchase both divided and Undivided which being what I Intend for him I do hereby Confirm to him and his heirs forever.  Item I have Given by deed to my Youngest Son Peter Hayward about Twenty Two Acres of Land Lying On Matfield River and a purchase Right in Taticut Lands And divers Lands In Taunton North purchase both divided & Undivided which being what I Intend for him I do hereby Confirm to him and his heirs forever. Item I have Given by deed to my four daughters Mary Eames Hannah Byram Susanah Hayward and Abigail Hayward all my right and title in the Estate of Peter Town of Cambridge decd. to be Equally divided amongst them Only with this proviso that they shall pay out thereof the Sum of Twenty pounds to my Grandaughter Alice Algar the Only Surviving daughter of My Eldest daughter Alice Algar decd. Upon Condition that She Live with my wife her Grandmother til She Arrive to Eighteen Years of Age or til her Grandmothers decease but in Case her father take her away before then my Will is that She shall have but Twenty shillings and the remainder of Said Twenty pounds to be Equally divided between them. Item I Give and bequeath my Books to all my Children perticulerly my Great Bible with Annotations I Give to my Son Edward Hayward and the rest of them after my wifes decease to be Equally divided among the rest of my Children. Item all my Unwilled Estate whatsoever I Give and bequeath to my Son Thomas Hayward Before named and to his Heirs for Ever. Finally I do nominate and Appoint and Ordain Hannah my well beloved wife Sole Executrix of this My Last Will and Testament and my Two sons Thomas Hayward & Edward Hayward to be helpfull to her as need may require and I do hereby Utterly disallow Revoak and disanull all Other Wills Legacys & Bequests & Executors whatsoever by me made & devised or Named & Do Rattifie Establish & Confirm this and no Other to be my Last Will and Testament. In Witness whereof I have hereunto Set my hand and seale the day and Year Above written. Signed Sealed published pronounced & declared by the Said Joseph Hayward as his Last Will and Testament In the presence of us the Subscribers.                           Joseph Hayward                              (seal)

Nathaniel Brett

Seth Brett

Willm. Brett Jur.

 

Probated on 17 July 1718, and proved by Nathaniel Brett and Seth Brett, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration granted to Hannah Hayward, the Executrix.

 

The Inventory of the goods and moveable Estate of Joseph Hayward of Bridgewater, who died on 20 June 1718, was appraised by Nathaniel Brett, Isaac Johnson, and John Field on 16 July 1718, not totaled, but included £95.9.10 in money, bonds, book debts & money scails. Hannah Hayward, the relict widdow & Executrix of Joseph Hayward, late of Bridgewater, gave her oath to the inventory on 17 July 1718.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 4, p. 136-138, from FHL microfilm #0550510.

 

 

Will of Joseph Hayward of Bridgewater, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1751) *

In the Name of God Amen the Sixth day of July 1751,

I Joseph Hayward of Bridgwater in the County of Plimouth In the province of the Massachusetts bay in NewEngland, being weak of Body but of perfect mind & Memory, thanks be to God therefor calling to mind the mortality of my body do Make & Ordain this my Last Will & Testament,- first of all I Give my soule into the hands of God that Gave it, and my body I recommend to the Earth to be decently buried at the discretion of my Execrs. hereafter named and as Touching my Worldly Estate I dispose thereof in the following manner, my Just Debts funerall charges and other expences being first Paid ~

Imprs. I Give to Mehetable my dearly beloved wife a Cow to be at her dispose, & I give to my sd. wife &      Daughter Hannah Hayward & to my Daughter Sarah Hayward Joyntly togather the Improvement of my Hom Farm & buildings standing thereon, and I also Give the Improvemt of one halfe of my Pasture called the Sheep Pasture to them, & also the Improvemt. one halfe of my land lying between the Road that Leads from Lieut. John Johnson’s to Esqr. Willis and the Center Swamp to them, that is to say during the time of my sd. wife her Naturall Life, and I also give to my said wife the Improvement of all my indoore moveables, that is to say, my Brass and Iron, Puter Earthen & Wooden utencells belonging to me, during her said Naturall Life –

Item, I Give to my above named Daughters Hannah Hayward & Sary Hayward after the decease of my said wife so much of my Indoore moveables as to make them even with what their Sister Namely Mehetable Edson, Janna Snow & Melatiah Dunbar had of my Estate at their Marrage.

Item, I Give to my four Daughters & to the Children of my Daughters Melatiah Dunbar, (deced) as followeth that is to say, to Mehetable Edson, Jonna Snow & the above named Hannah Hayward, Sary Hayward & the Children of my said Daughter Melatiah in equall shares to them all my Land at aplace called Matfield & also a Twenty Acre Lot of Land lying at aplace called Motsshop neck Adjoyning on the southside of Land which Formerly belonged to Benony Hayward, and also Twenty acres of land lying on the Westerly side of the Bare Swamp, that is to say to the Children of my abovesaid Daughter Maletiah Dunbar One equall share wth. my Other Daughters abovementioned & also my Indoore moveables, after the decease of my wife, and after the above Named Hannah & Sarah have had their Parts Sett out to them as abovesaid the rest of sd. Indoore moveables to be equally Divided between my four Daughters above named, and the Children of my said Daughter Melatiah Dunbar that is to say the said Children of my said Daughter Melatiah Dunbar that is to Say the said Children to have One equall Share,

Item, I Give my Two Sons Thomas Hayward & Benjamin Hayward, whom I Likewise Constitute & appoint my Sole Execrs. of this my Last Will & Testamt. to them, to them I Give my apparell, and also I give the Improvement of One halfe of My Hom Farm and the Improvement of the Buildings that is to say One halfe of them, and also the Improvement of One halfe of my Sheep pasture so called, and the Improvement of halfe the Land belonging to me lying between the road that leads from Lieut. John Jones to Esqr. Willis’s & Centerswamp, & I also Give my said Sons all my out doore moveables, that is to say my Cart Plows with all my Team Tackling and Other utencells for Farming worke & also I give to my Sons abovenamed all my Neat Stock of Cattle & Other Cretors except the three Cows allready disposed off, & so many fat if any be as shall be thought Necessary for the Support of the Family for that present Year

Item, I also Give to my Children above named after the decease of their Mother, viz. Thomas Hayward, Benjamin Hayward, Mehetable Edson, Jonna Snow, Hannah Hayward, Sarah Hayward, and the Children of Melatiah Dunbar to them in equall shares all my Hom farm & buildings thereon and my Sheep Pasture so called & the Peice of land above mentioned Lying between the road that leads from Liut. John Jones, to Esqr. Willis’s & Centerswamp that is to say the abovesd. Melatiah’s Children to have One share wth. the rest above named and Furthermore I by these Presents Testifie and say that the within Mentioned Tracts & parcells of Land to the with named Children & GrandChildren as within mentioned to them &to each of them and to their Respective Heirs I Give, and also to their Assigns respectively forever Willed & Bequeathed Ratifying & Confirming this &no other to be my last Will & Testament—

In Witness whereof I have hereunto Set my hand & Seal the day & Year above writen

Signed, Sealed Published

Pronounced & Declared by the                                                                                         Joseph Hayward                              (seal)

sd. Joseph Hayward as his last Will

& Testament, In the Presence of us the

Subscribers

                Daniel Johnson

                Josiah Edson junr.

                James Johnson

 

Presented for probate on 9 May 1758 by the Execrs. therein named, and proved by Danl. Johnson and James Johnson, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Thomas Hayward and Benjamin Hayward, the Execrs. in the same Will named, on 9 May A.D. 1758.

 

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 14, p. 498-500, from FHL microfilm #0551542.

 

 

Will of Luther Hayward of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1854) *

                Know all men by these presents, that I, Luther Hayward, of Bridgewater in the County of Plymouth and State of Massachusetts, yeoman, being of sound disposing mind and memory do make and publish this my last Will and Testament.

                First. I give and bequeath to my beloved wife Bethiah Hayward, all of my household furniture, my wearing apparel and all my Personal Estate of every description.

                I also give her all of my Real Estate of every description to her disposal, after paying my just debts.

                Lastly, I ordain and appoint my wife Bethiah Hayward, as Executrix of this my last Will and Testament.

                In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal, and published and declare this to be my last Will and Testament, in the presence of the witnesses named below, this eleventh day of December, in the year one thousand eight hundred and fifty four.

                                                                                                                                                Luther Hayward                               (seal)

                Signed, sealed and declared by the said Luther Hayward, as and for his last Will and Testament, in presence of us who, in his presence, and in the presence of each other and at his request, have hereunto subscribed our names as witnesses.

                                                                                                                                                Solomon Hayward

                                                                                                                                                Samuel G. Winsor

                                                                                                                                                Lewis Bryant

 

Presented for probate on the first Tuesday of July, 1859, by Bethiah Hayward, the Executrix therein named, and proved by Solomon Hayward and Samuel G. Winsor, two of the witnesses. Letter of Administration with the Will annexed was granted to Elbridge Keith, the Executrix therein named having declined the trust.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 101, p. 270-271, from FHL microfilm #0555645.

 

 

Will of Nathaniel Hayward of Bridgewater, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1734) *

In the Name of God Amen. The Seventeenth Day of January - 1733/4. I Nathaniel Hayward of Bridgewater in ye. County of Plymouth in New-England Husbandman being weak in Body but of perfect Mind & Memory Thanks be given to God: Therefore Calling to Mind the Mortality of my Body and Knowing that it is appointed for all Men once to dy, do make & ordain this my last Will & Testament that is to say, Principally and First of all I Give & Recommend my Soul into the Hands of God that gave it, and my Body I Recommend to the Earth to be buried in decent Christian Manner at ye discretion of my Executor: And as touching such worldly Estate wherewith it hath pleased God to bless Me in this Life I Give Demise & Dispose of ye. same in ye following Manner & form

First I Give & bequeath to Elizabeth my dearly beloved Wife the East End of my House that Room where I now dwell with the Chamber over it the back room & Cellar during her Life Also a Bed & Furniture a bible & a third part of all my other Books, also the Meat Corn & flax that shall be left a my Decease & so much of all other houshold Goods as shall be necessary for her Support during her Life~~

2.ly. I Give to my Son Josiah Hayward whom I likewise Constitute Make & Ordain my Sole Executor of this my last Will & Testament Seven acres of Land besides what he has alread. Seussed to him, it being a Part of his Homestead—

3.ly. I Give to my Son Nathaniel Hayward Twenty Seven Acres of Land where he now dwells and order him to pay Twenty Pounds in good Pay to his Sisters Sarah Latham & Mary Kingman that is ten Pounds to Each of them —

4.ly as for my Son Isaac Hayward I have already Given him his Part of my Estate or Land equal to his Brethren before Mentioned in ye Tract of Land welrance from Fras: Cary —

5.ly I Give to my Son Timothy Hayward all my Homestead after my Decease, and he is to Provide for his Mother what is necessary for her Support during her Widowhood, and in particular he is to keep a Cow for her use —

6.ly I Give to my Daughter Mercy Dunbar ten Pounds to be paid her out of my Estate~

7.ly. I Give to my three other Daughters Namely Elizabeth Susanna and Bethiah that Piece of Land which I have lying between Lieuts. Ephraim Cary & Ebenezer Hill, butting upon the South Side of the high way & running into the Swamp. But if my son Timothy can & shall Pay to my sd. Three Daughters last Mentioned thirty Pounds that is ten Pounds to Each of them, then I Give ye. sd. Piece of Land to him, and each Tract of Land which I have given to my Children as above mentioned I Give to them & to their Heirs forever  8.ly And all my Wearing Cloaths after my Decease I Give to my four Sons to be divided equally amongst them —

9.ly I further Give to my Son Timothy My Iron Chains Cart Irons & Plough Irons ~

10.ly I further Give to my Daughters Elizabeth Susanna & Bethiah after their Mothers Decease to Each of them a Bed & Bedding, and if either of them remain unmarried after their Mothers Decease, I Give them the house Room which she had till they are Married —

Lastly after ye. Payment of Debts & funeral Charges what Moveables remain Undisposed of I Give to my six Daughters to be equally divided amongst them—And I do hereby utterly Revoke and Disanull all other Wills or Testaments, Ratifying & Confirming this and no other to be my last Will & Testament – In Witness whereof I have hereunto Set my hand & seal the Day & Year above written —

Signed Sealed Published Pronounced & Declared

by ye. sd. Nathaniel Hayward as his last Will

and Testament In ye Presence of Us ye Subscribers                                                       Nathaniel Hayward                        (seal)

Elisha Hayward, Jonathan Whitman Nathl Willis

 

Proved on 5 Aug. 1734 by Elisha Hayward, Jonathan Whitman, and Nathaniel Willis, the witnesses. Letters of Administration on the estate of Nathaniel Hayward, late of Bridgewater, were granted to Josiah Hayward, one of the sons of the deceased, on 20 Aug. 1734.

 

The Inventory of all ye Estate both real & personal that Mr. Nathaniel Hayward late of Bridgewater died seized of was appraised by Daniel Hudson, Ephraim Cary, and Joseph Edson on 19 Aug. 1734, not totaled, but his Homestead Land & Buildings were valued at £330, 7 acres of land at Josiah Haywards was valued at £70, 27 acres of land at Nathaniel Haywards was valued at £90, and 4 acres of land at Ebenezer Hills shop was valued at £30. Josiah Hayward, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 19 Sept. 1734.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 7, pp. 53-54, 64-65, from FHL microfilm #0550513.

 

 

Will of Nathaniel Hayward of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Massachusetts Bay (1780) *

  In the name of God Amen—I Nathaniel Hayward, yeoman Labouring under distress of body but of a sound mind and memory, blessed be God for it and being Sensible that it is appointed for all men to die, I do by these presents appoint this my Last will & testament, and First I Return my Soul to God that Gave it whenever he shall please to call for it, and my body I Recommend to the Earth to be decently buried by my Executors hereafter mentioned hoping for a Glorious Resurrection To Life eternal through the merits of Christ my redeemer and touching the temporal Estate which God hath blessed me with in this Life, my Just debts and Funeral Charges being first paid by my Executrix hereafter named, I Give and dispose of in the manner following vizt.

Imprimis—I Give and bequeath unto my true and Loving wife Hannah Hayward my homestead Land and buildings Lying in the township of Bridgwater in the county of Plymouth, so Long as she remains my widow and no Longer, also four acres of Land Lying on the Easterly side of the high way bounded on the north side by the Land of the widow Leach, and on the south Side by the Land of John Miller ~

I Give and bequeath unto my Son Nathaniel Five Shillings ~

I Give to my two Sons, Enos and Calvin my desk in equal Shares and to each a barrel of Cyder

I Give and bequeath to my Son Barzilla and daughter Mary Dwier thirty weight of hay Seed, and it is my desire that my Son Dwier should Send the Gun and accoutirements to my Son Philip

I Give and bequeath to my two daughters Dorcas Bryant and Rebecca Hayward, a Chest with two draws, and the trimming that was purchased for it also a blue bed quilt in equal Shares –

I bequeath to my Son Philip, the Gun before mentioned & two Sheep

I Give and bequeath to my Sons vizt. Oliver, Libeus, Rufus and Isaac two Sheep each—and to the Rest of my Estate, a Cow, a Calf & Sheep and other personal Estate not herein disposed – I Give to my well beloved wife for her own, and it is my will that after her decease the Real Estate should be equally divided between my Five Sons Phillip, Oliver, Libeus, Rufus and Isaac

I acknowledge this to be my Last will and Testament – In witness whereof I the said Nathaniel Hayward have hereunto Sett my hand and Seal this Eighth day of November Annoq Domini 1780

Signed, Sealed and delivered by the said

Nathaniel Hayward to be his Last will                                                                             Nathaniel Hayward                        (seal)

and Testament in presence of

                Ephraim Tomson

                Nathaniel Tomson

                Ezra Tomson

 

Presented for probate on 4 Dec. 1780 by Hannah Hayward, Administrator cum testamento annexo, no Executor being named in said will, and proved by Ezra Tomson, one of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration Cum Testamento Annexo were granted to Hannah Hayward.

 

Ebenezer Tomson of Halifax Esqr., Judah Wood of Halifax, yeoman, and Jonathan Benson of Bridgwater, yeoman, were appointed to appraise the estate of Nathaniel Hayward, late of Bridgwater, yeoman, on 4 Dec. 1780. The Inventory, dated 27 Dec. 1780, totaled £58.18.3, his real estate valued at only £10. Hannah Hayward, the administratrix, gave her oath to the inventory on 5 Mar. 1781, and she notified the court that she apprended the estate to be insolvent to pay its debts. Ebenezer Tomson of Halifax Esqr. and Jonathan Benson of Bridgwater, yeoman, were appointed to examine the claims against the estate on 5 Mar. 1781. The adjusted claims totaled £18.5.0¾.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 28, p. 29-31, from FHL microfilm #0550715.

 

 

Will of Peter Hayward of Bridgewater, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1756) *

                                                In the Name of God, Amen.

The twentyeighth day of August 1756. I Peter Hayward of Bridgwater in the county of Plymouth in New:England yeoman, being in a weak & low state of bodily health but of sound mind & Memory (thanks be give unto God,) therefore calling unto mind the mortality of my body & knowing that it is appointed for all men once to die do make & ordain this my last will & testament, that is to say, principally & first of all I give & recomend my soul into the hands of God that gave it & my body I recomend to the earth to be buried in decent christian burial at the discression of my Exr. hereafter named Nothing doubting I shall receive the same again at the General resurrection by the mighty power of God, and as touching such worldly estate wherewith it hath pleased God to bless me in this life, I give demise & dispose of the same in the following Manner & form. ~~

Imprs. I give & bequeath to Abigail my dearly beloved wife the improvemt. of one moiety or half part of all my lands & buildings in Bridgwr. for & during the term & space of nine years next after my decease, & at the expiration of said nine years she shall have the improvement of only one third part of my lands in Bridgwater & one half of my buildings as long as she shall continue my widdow.~ Also I give to my said wife two cows, two beds with all the furniture belongg. to ‘em & one half of the rest of my houshold stuff (not herein otherwise disposd. off,) to be at her dispose forever.

Item I give to my well belovd. son Jonathan (whom I likewise constitute make & ordain my sole Exr. of this my last will & testament) all my lands & buildings in Bridgwater aforesaid (reserving only the improvemt. to my wife as is above expressed) also all that part of my largest half of land in Easton that lies northerly of an east & west line extended from the Mine=bed near the head of the seventy=Acre=lot. Also my lot of Cedarswamp lying in Easton aforesd. & in the swamp near Edwd. Haward Esqr. I say I give all my said lands to my sd. Son Jona. & to his heirs & assigns forever. Also I give to my said son Jona. all my husbandry tools & my youngest Mare & oldest Yoke of Oxen & one cow & one bed. ~

Item. I give to my two, wellbeloved daughters Abigail & Hannah all my lands lying in Easton both divided & undivided (that are not herein otherwise disposed off,) to be equally divided between them, I say I give it to them their heirs & assigns forever. Also I give to my sd. daughters all my houshold goods (not herein otherwise disposed off,) to be equally divided between them, also I give to each of my sd. daughters one cow & one bed. –

Also it is my will that my son Jona. provide for my wife a sufficiency of fire wood cut fit for the fire & deliverd. at my now, dwelling house So long as she shall continue to live there. ~

And it is also my will that all my estate (not herein otherwise disposd. off,) be equally divided between my aforesaid wife & three Childn. And I do utterly disallow, revoke & disannul all & every other former testaments, wills, legacies & bequests & Executors by me in any ways before named, willed & bequeathed, ratifying & confirming this & no other to be my last will & testament. In witness whereof I have hereunto sett my hand & seal the day & Year first aforewritten.

Signed sealed, published, pronounced,                                                                           Peter Hayward                                 (seal)

& declared by the said Peter Hayward

as his last will & testament, in prcence

of us the Subsrs. – Daniel Littelfield, Nathan Hartwel, Shepard Fisk.

 

Presented for probate on 7 Oct. 1765 by Jonathan Hayward, the Executor therein named, and proved by Daniel Littlefield and Shepard Fisk, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Jona. Hayward, the before named Exr.

 

The Inventory of the estate of Peter Hayward, late of Bridgwater, was appraised on 27 Sept. 1765 by Shepard Fisk, Benjamin Hayward, and Issachar Snell, and totaled £1587.13.10, including his homestead containing 84¼ acres including the buildings valued at £337.6.8, 183 acres in one tract lying in Easton valued at £609.2.0, and several other parcels of land. Jonathan Hayward, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 7 Oct. 1765.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 19, p. 277-280, from FHL microfilm #0550711.

 

 

Will of Sarah Hayward of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1790) *

  In the name of God Amen – The 13th day of December Anno Domini 1790 I Sarah Hayward of Bridgwater in the county of Plymouth & Comonwealth of Massachusetts, single woman, advancing in years and calling to mind my mortality do make and ordain this my Last will & testament in the following manner, first I commend my soul into the hands of God who gave it, and my body to the earth, to be buried, in decent christian burial, and my worldly estate I give and bequeath, as follows

  Imprimis – I Give & bequeath to my Loving sister Joanna Snow, widow, her heirs or assigns the sum of six pounds to be paid by my Executor, also one third part of all my houshold goods books & wearing apparell

  Item – I give to the heirs of my brother Thomas Hayward deceased vizt, Amos, Eliab & Robert Hayward, to each of them respectively their heirs or assigns, the sum of two pounds a piece to be paid by my Executor

  Item – I Give to the heirs of my brother Benjamin Hayward deceased, as follows vizt – to Daniel Hayward his heirs or assigns the sum of thirty pounds, also two third parts of all the surplus or remainder of my estate whatsoever after the payment of my just debts, funeral expences & the several Legacies herein mentioned by my Executor, to Joseph, Benjamin & Cary Hayward, Sarah Snell & Mary Snell being the other heirs of my deceased brother Benjamin aforesaid, to each of them respectively their heirs or assigns the sum of two pounds a piece to be paid by my Executor – further I give to Sarah Snell & Mary Snell aforesaid & to Bethiah now wife to Daniel Hayward aforesaid their heirs or assigns one third part of all my houshold goods, Books & wearing apparell to be equally divided between them

Item – I Give to the heirs of my Sister Melatiah Dunbar deceased – vizt, Samuel Dunbar, Mehitabel Copeland, Melatiah Howard & Hannah Snow, to each of them respectively their heirs or assigns, the sum of two pounds a piece to be paid by my Executor, also I further give to Mehitabel Copeland, Melatiah Howard & Hannah Snow aforesaid their heirs or assigns one third part of all my houshold goods Books & wearing apparell to be equally divided between them

  Item – I Give to Sarah Lathrop now wife to Jacob Lathrop of said Bridgwater, the sum of twenty shillings, also to Bethiah Keith, Daughter to Edward Keith the sum of twenty shillings to be paid by my Executor

  Item – I Give and devise to Joseph Snow, his heirs or assigns the sum of six pounds also all my right in a Pew in the old meeting house, in the west Precinct in Bridgwater being situated on the floor at the easterly corner of said house – I do also hereby constitute & appoint the said Joseph Snow sole Executor of this my Last will & testament, and do further give unto the said Joseph Snow, his heirs or assigns one third part of all the surplus or remainder of my Estate after the payment of my just debts, funeral expences & the several Legacies herein mentioned — In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand & seal, the day & year first above written ~

Signed, Sealed, pronounced and declared

by the testator as his [sic] Last will & testament                                                          Sarah Hayward                                (seal)

in presence of us –

                Joel Edson

                David Snow

                Josiah Richards

 

Presented for probate on 6 Jan. 1794 by Joseph Snow, the Executor therein named, and proved by Joel Edson, David Snow, and Josiah Richards, all the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Joseph Snow, the before named Executor.

 

Josiah Richards, Jona. Kingman and Isaac Whitman, all of Bridgwater, yeomen, were appointed to appraise the estate of Sarah Hayward, late of Bridgwater, single woman, on 6 Jan. 1794. The Inventory, dated 9 Jan. 1794, totaled £203.19.4, no real estate. Jos. Snow, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 3 Mar. 1794.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 33, p. 518-519, from FHL microfilm #0550717, and Vol. 35, p. 23.

 

 

Will of Seth Hayward of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Massachusetts Bay (1778) *

In the name of God Amen September 3d 1778 I Seth Hayward of Bridgwater in the county of Plymouth, husbandman being now a disposing mind & memory, yet calling to mind the mortality of my body and knowing that it is appointed unto all men once to die, do make & ordain this my Last Will and testament, that is principally and first of all, I recommend my soul into the hands of that God who gave it, and my Body I recommend to the Earth to be buried with christian decent Burial, at the discretion of my Executor hereafter named, in hope of rising again at the Last day, and as to my worldly Estate wherewith it hath pleased God to bless me in this Life I Give & dispose of the same in the following manner & form

1st—Tis my Will that all my debts & funeral charges be well & truly paid in convenient time after my decease

2d—I Give & Bequeath unto my well Beloved wife Tabitha a third of the improvement of all my buildings & Lands, one horse & my Chair for her use, and the use of two Cows and five sheep ~

3d—I Give and Bequeath to my well beloved Son Azariah Hayward besides what I have Given him by deed of Gift all that Land, of which I have Given him a Lease, excepting the wood upon it which is designed for my home fire, to be taken off in fifteen years, all this to him, his heirs and assigns forever –

4th—I Give & bequeath unto my well beloved Son Solomon all my Interest not above disposed of to him his heirs & assigns forever, excepting my two pews in the meeting house, that in the Gallery I Give to my Son Azariah, that below I Give to my Son Solomon, to be improved by my whole family while unmarried, my wearing apparel I Give to my two Sons to be equally divided between them– tis my will that my two beloved daughters Bethia & Charity, have the priviledge to dwell in my house while they remain unmarried ~

5—Tis my Will that my two daughters, should equally share in one third of all my Indoor moveable Estate

6—I order my Son Solomon to pay his two Sisters, by name Bethiah & Charity Hayward, one Quarter of his whole Legacy ~

7—I Give & bequeath unto my well beloved Grand daughters, Freelove & Lydia Whitman thirteen pounds six shillings & Eight pence to each, at the rate of Corn, Indian Corn three shillings per Bushell, to be paid when they arrive at the age of Eighteen years, if either or both of them die before this age, no Legacy to be paid, on the account of the deceased

Finally—I constitute and appoint my well beloved Son Solomon, Sole Executor of this my Last Will and testament and order him to pay all the Legacies therein specified, confirming this and no other to be my Last Will and Testament In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand & Seal the day & year above written

        Signed, Sealed, published, pronounced & declared by me                                  Seth Hayward                                   (seal)

        Seth Hayward as my Last Will & testament in

        presence of us

                Seth Pratt

                Job Pratt

                Benjamin Hayward

 

Presented for probate on 5 Oct. 1778 by Solomon Hayward, the Executor therein named, and proved by Job Pratt and Benjamin Hayward, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Solomon Hayward, the before named Executor.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Seth Hayward, late of Bridgwater, was appraised on 27 Oct. 1778 by Seth Pratt, Hezekiah Hooper and Job Pratt, and totaled £3094.2.6, including his real estate which totaled £1602.10, and a large amount of livestock.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 25, p. 105-106, from FHL microfilm #0550713.

 

 

Will of Silas Hayward of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1835) *

                In the name of God Amen, I Silas Hayward of Bridgewater in the County of Plymouth, suffering under some indisposition of body, but through the blessing of God being of sound mind and memory, do this twenty fourth day of January in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and thirty five, make and ordain this my last will and testament, in manner and form following that is to say, I give unto my brothers Solomon, Martin, Joseph, Nahum, Seth, Almarine, Lewis & Luther and to my sisters Betsey & Levina, one Dollar to each of them – I also give and bequeath unto my mother the whole of my estate both real and personal, to her disposal, not otherwise disposed of,– If I should live until my mother’s decease, I order my whole estate to be equally divided, between my two brothers Seth & Luther and my sister Betsey, each of them to have one third of my estate not otherwise disposed of,

And I do now constitute ordain and appoint my brother Solomon Hayward sole Executor of this my last Will and Testament—

   In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal the day and year first named.

                                                                                                                                                Silas Hayward                  (seal)

Signed sealed, published and declared by the testator as his last will and testament in presence of us, who in his presence and in presence of each other hereunto set our names as witnesses at his request

                                                                                Solomon Hayward

                                                                                Alvin Hayward

                                                                                Betsey Hayward

 

Presented for probate on the third Monday of Feb. 1852 by Solomon Hayward, the Executor therein named, and proved by Solomon Hayward, one of the witnesses.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 94, p. 67-68, from FHL microfilm #0555641.

 

 

Will of Solomon Hayward of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonweatlh of Massachusetts (1829) *

In the name of God, Amen, I Solomon Hayward of Bridgewater in the County of Plymouth being advanced in years and suffering under some indisposition of body, but through the blessing of God being of sound mind & memory do this sixteenth day of February in the Year of Our Lord One thousand eight hundred and twenty nine, make & ordain this my last Will & Testament in manner & form following, that is to say,

        I give & bequeath unto my well beloved wife Zeruiah the use & improvement of one third part of all my lands and buildings during her life and I do also give her one third part of all my personal estate to be at her disposal among my children.

        I give unto my six Sons following Viz: Solomon, Martin, Joseph, Nahum, Almarine and Lewis twenty five dollars to each of them to be paid in one year after my decease.

        I give to my other three sons, viz: Silas, Seth & Luther and to my two daughters Betsey & Levina all the rest of my Estate not above dispose of, my three sons last named to have three quarters equally and my two daughters to have the other quarter equally.

        And I do now constitute, ordain & appoint my son Solomon Sole Executor of this my last Will & Testament.

        In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand & seal the day & year first named.

                                                                                                                                                Solomon Hayward                          (seal)

Signed, sealed, published & declared by the testator as his last Will & Testament in the presence of us, who in his presence & in presence of each other hereunto set our names as witnesses at his request.

                Simeon Pratt

                Seth Pratt

                Henry W. Pratt

 

Presented for probate on 3 Dec. 1832, and proved by Simeon Pratt and Henry W. Pratt, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration given to Solomon Hayward of Bridgewater, Esquire, on 3 Dec. 1832.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 72, p. 555-556, from FHL microfilm #0555261.

 

 

Will of Solomon Hayward of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1866) *

I Solomon Hayward of Bridgewater do make and declare this my last will and testament.

1. I give to my grandchildren William Washburn and Edward Washburn sons of my deceased daughter Mary Washburn wife of Rotheus Washburn to each of said grandchildren the sum of five dollars.

2– I give to my great grandchildren Josephine White Henry White and Elmer White children of my deceased grandchild Mary White wife of Hiram White & grandchildren of my deceased daughter the said Mary Washburn to each of said great grand-children the sum of five dollars

3d I give devise & bequeath all the rest residue and remainder of my estate real personal & mixed of whatever kind & wherever situate to Chloe Benson widow of Nahum Benson deceased who has long been a faithful servant & housekeeper in my family & is now living in my house – to have & to hold the same to said Chloe Benson her heirs and assigns forever.

4. I appoint Williams Latham of Bridgewater Executor of this will In witness whereof I the said Solomon Hayward have hereto set my hand this ninth day of April in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and sixty six.

                                                                                                                                                Solomon Hayward

Signed, published & declared by the said Solomon Hayward as and for his last will & testament in the presence of us who at his request and in his presence have hereto set our names as witnesses.

                                                                                Williams Latham                                Francis Winsor

                                                                                Albion K. Washburn                          Nahum Benson

 

Presented for probate on the fourth Monday of Sept. 1867 by Williams Latham, of Bridgewater, with Galen Latham and Benjamin Ward, of East Bridgewater, as sureties. Letters Testamentary were granted to Williams Latham on 23 Sept. 1867.

 

Spencer Leonard, Benjamin Harden, and Sylvanus T. Pope, all of Bridgewater, were appointed to appraise the estate of Solomon Hayward, late of Bridgewater, on 23 Sept. 1867. The Inventory totaled $2921.67, including his real estate valued at $1970. Williams Latham, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 12 Apr. 1869.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 106, p. 12-13, from FHL microfilm #0555647, Vol. 124, p. 95, and Vol. 109, p. 331.

 

 

Will of Thomas Hayward of Bridgewater, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1740) *

In the Name of God Amen the Eighteenth day of July A.D. 1740, I Thomas Hayward of Bridgwater in the County of Plymouth in the Province of sd. Massachusets bay in New England Husbandman, being Now weak in body but of perfect mind and memory, thanks be given to the Great God, yet Calling to mind ye. Mortallity of my body, and knowing that it is appointed for all men Once to die do make and ordain this My last will and Testament, that it to Say, Principally and first of all, I Give and Recommend my Soul into ye. hand of that God who Gave it, and my body I Recommend to the Earth to be buried with decent Christian burial at the discretion of my Executrix hereafter named, Nothing doubting but at ye. Generall Resurrection I Shall Receive the Same Again by the power of Allmighty God, and as Touching Such worldly Estate wherewith it hath pleased god to bless me in this life, I give demise and dispose of ye. same in ye following manner & form that is to Say.

1  1st, It is My Will That all my Debts & funerall Charges be well and Truly paid in Convenient time after my decease—

2  2ndy I Give and bequeath unto my Wellbeloved wife Bethia One third part of the Improvement of my home farme; & One third part of the Improvement of all my Moveable Estate, dureing her Naturall life together with the Improvement of the old part of ye house in which I now dwell.

3  3ly  I Give and bequeath unto my well beloved son Seth Hayward all my home farme, together with One yoke of Oxen, two Cows, Eight Sheep, One horse and all my Utensils upon sd. farme proper for husbandry, and allso One half of a Right in sd. Old Cedar Swamp vizt Three quarters of a priviledge Right in the Undivided land, together with My Gunn, Sword and Ammunition, and allso One pair of Andirons, tongs, Slue, & two pair of Tramels, excepting that part of ye. house ye. improvement of which I have given to my wife dureing her Naturall life, the improvement of which I give to my four daughters, as long as they, or either of them Stands in need of it, after thiere mothers decease.

4  4ly. I Give and bequeath unto my wellbeloved daughter Alice & to her son Thomas Cushman ten Acres of land lying On the North Side of ye Great River below Richard Geningses, together with all other land which I have On that side ye. River below said Jeningses.—

5  5ly. I Give and bequeath unto my Well beloved daughters, Bethia and Mary, all my land lying On ye. Southerly side of ye. land that was formerly James Barrells.—

6  6ly. I Give and bequeath unto my wellbeloved daughter, Phebe that Tract of land which I bought of Japhet Pratt junr. being in Bridgwater.—

7  7ly. The Other part of My Estate not dispos’d off, I give to My well beloved wife Bethia, to be disposed of after my decease, as She see Cause among my Children.—

Finally, I appoint and Ordain my well beloved wife Bethia Sole Executrix of this my last will and Testement & do hereby utterly disallow and Revoke all other wills before this time by me made, holding Ratyfying and Confirming this and no other to be my last will and Testament.

In Witness whereof I have hereunto Set my Hand & Seal The day and year above written. ~ Signed Sealed published pronounc’d and Deliverd by the said Thomas Hayward as his last Will and Testament in the presence of us the Subscribers.

Richard Davenport

Enoch Leonard                                                                                    Thomas Hayward                (seal)

Nathaniel Hayward

 

Presented for probate on 8 June 1741 by Bethia Hayward, the Executrix, and proved by Richard Davenporte, Enoch Leonard and Nathll. Hayward, the witnesses.

No inventory was recorded for his estate.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 8, p. 367-369, from FHL microfilm #0551531.

 

 

Will of Timothy Hayward of Bridgewater, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1750) *

In The Name of God Amen The Twenty fifth Day of May Anno Domini One Thousand Seven hundred and fifty I Timothy Hayward of Bridgwater in the County of plimo. in New England Yeoman Being of a Sound and Disposing Mind and Memory Thanks be to God for it and Calling to mind the Mortality of my Body and knowing that it is appointed for all Men Once to die Do Ordain and make this my Last Will and Testament. first of all I give and recomend my Soul Into the Hands of the great God who gave it hoping thro. ye. Merits and Satisfaction of Jesus Christ to obtaine the full and free pardon of all my Sins and finaly to Inherit Everlasting Life. and my Body I Commit to the Earth to be decently buried at the Discretion of my Executrix & Executor herafter Named Nothing Doubting but at the Resurrection I Shall receive the Same again by the power of God Almighty and Touching Such Worldly Estate Wherewith it hath pleased God to bless me in this Life I give and Dispose of the Same In the following manner (viz) first of all my will is that my funeral Charges to gether with all my Just Debts be paid in a Convenient Time after my decease In the next place I Give and bequeath unto my well beloved Wife Jael the whole Inmroument of my present Homstead while She Shall Continue my Widdow and the Improument of My Farm in the East prect. till my son Timothy Shall arive To the age of Twenty One Years also I give unto my Said Wife all my Indoor Moveables Excepting those which my first Wife brot to be in Tirelly at her dispose also I Give unto her my Horse Two Cows Ten Sheep and Two Swine and all my Corn meat and other provisions and I Do hereby nominate and appoint my Sd. Wife Executrix and Mr. Seth Alden Executors of this my Last Will and Testament and My Will Is that my Said wife Should pay my faneral Charges and Other Debts out of My Quick Stock ~~~

Item, I Give and Bequeath unto my Son Timothy his heirs and assigns for Ever My Farm Lying in the East prect. also I give unto him My best Sute of apparrell hereby oblidging him to pay to my Son Ebenezer Fifty pounds Lawfull money When Said Ebenr. Shall arive to twenty One Years of age

Item I Give and bequeath unto my Said Son Ebenezer his heirs and assigns for Eever My Tract of Lands Lying near my Brother Nathll. Hayward Junr. also I Give unto him the Remainder of my apparrell that is besides what I gave to my Said Son Timothy

Further I Give unto my Said Sons Timothy & Ebenezer my Cart & Wheeals plows yokes Chains and all my husbandry Tools To be Equaly divided between them and also I give unto them the aforesaid Indoor Moveables of my first Wifes Equely between them

I give and bequeath unto my Son Daniel his heirs and assigns forever my present Homstead upon this Condition Which Is That if The Child Wherewith My wife Is Now pregnant Should be a Daughter Then I Oblidge my Said Son Danll. to pay out Legacy as here after Expressed viz to my Daughter Mary Thirteen pounds Six Shillings & Eight pence Lawfull Money and also the Same Sum to her that is unborn when they Shall be Eighteen Years of age or at Marriage butt if the unborn Child Shall be a Son then I give unto my Said Son Danll. the One half of my present homestead and to pay out to my Said Daughter Mary Six pounds Thirteen Shilling and four pence Lawfull Mony

Item I give and bequeath unto My Said Daughter Mary the Sume of Thirteen pounds Six Shillings and Eight pence Lawfull Mony to be paid unto her as I have Orderd in and by this Will

Item I Give and bequeath unto the Said unborn Child if a Son The One half of my present homested he paying to My Said Daughter Mary Six pounds thirteen Shillings and four pence Lawful Mony and if a Daughter then I Give her thirteen pounds Six Shillings and Eight pence Lawfull Mony to be paid by my Said Son Danll. as aforesaid

And Further my Will is that in Case thair Should be any Quick Stock Left besides What I have already Disposed of after My Debts are paid I give and bequeath the Same unto all my Children afore Mentioned to be Equely Divided between them

In Testimony Whereof I have here unto Set my hand and Seal the Day and Year afore Said

Signed Sealed Deliverd pronounced                                                                               Timothy Hayward                            (seal)

published and Declaird by the sd. Timothy Hayward to be his Last

Will and Testament in presence of us the Subscribers—

Hezekiah Hayward

David Conant Junr.

Josiah Edson Jur.

 

Presented for probate on 11 July 1750 by the Executors therein named, and proved by David Conant and Josiah Edson Jur. Esqr., two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Jael Hayward, widow, and Seth Alden, Yeoman, both of Bridgwater, on 11 July 1750.

 

Josiah Edson Esqr., Edward Mitchell, and David Conant, all of Bridgwater, were appointed to appraise the estate of Timothy Hayward, late of Bridgewater, on 11 July 1750. The Inventory of the Estate of Timothy Hayward, dated 16 July 1750, totaled £465.3.8, including his homestead valued at £160, his farm in the East Prect. valued at £160, and his land by Nathll. Haywards valued at £24. Seth Alden and Jael Haward, the Executors, gave their oath to the inventory on 30 July 1750.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 12, pp. 50-51, 114-115, from FHL microfilm #0551539.

 

 

Will of Zeruiah Hayward of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1842) *

        In the name of God Amen. I Zeruiah Hayward of Bridgewater in said County of Plymouth being advanced in years and suffering under some indisposition of body, but being of sound mind, do this fourth day of October in the year of our lord one thousand eight hundred and forty two, make and ordain this my last will and testament, in manner and form following that is to say, I give and bequeath unto my Daughter, Betsey, all my wearing apparel. I also give to her two undivided fifths of all my personal Estate. The remainder, three fifths of my personal estate, I give to my three sons Silas, Seth & Luther, to be equally divided between them.

        And I do now Constitute ordain and appoint my son Solomon Sole Executor of this my last Will and Testament.

In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal the day and year first mentioned.

                                                                                                                                                Zeruiah Hayward                            (seal)

Signed, sealed, published, and declared by the testatrix as her last will and Testament, in the presence of us, who at in her presence, and in presence of each other hereunto set our names as witnesses at her request.

Alvin Hayward

Lewis Bryant Jr.

Chloe Benson

 

Presented for probate on the last Tuesday of May, 1844, by Solomon Hayward, the Executor therein named, and proved by Alvin Hayward and Lewis Bryant Jun., the witnesses.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 86, p. 208-209, from FHL microfilm #0555637.

 

 

Will of Daniel Hearsey of Abington, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1836) *

        Know all Men that I Daniel Hearsey of Abington in the County of Plymouth, Yeoman, being of sound and disposing mind and memory, do make this my last Will and Testament in manner as follows

        1st  To my wife Hannah Hearsey I give and bequeath all my household furniture – the improvement of one half of the house, and such privileges in the yards, Barn and out-buildings as she may require – together with fifty dollars per year, in semiannual payments as is hereafter expressed – and so much fire wood prepared for her fire as she may require for her comfort and convenience – all the above except the furniture to continue so long as she may remain my widow.

        2d.  To my son Isaac Hearsey I give and bequeath five hundred dollars in cash provided he exhibit no account against my estate – and not otherwise.

        3d.  All the rest and residue of my Real and Personal estate of every name and description, my Will is, shall be equally divided between my sons Isaac Hearsey and Daniel Hearsey Jr.

        And my said sons Isaac and Daniel to pay to my wife the said sum of fifty dollars in equal semiannual payments – and also to furnish and prepare and furnish a sufficient quantity of fire wood for her at proper times and seasons so long as she may continue my widow – and no longer.

        And my Will is that all my real estate which may come into the hands and possession of my said sons, after the payment of all my debts and the legacy to my son Isaac, and charges of administration shall stand holden and pledged for the said semiannual payments to my wife – so that she may in case of failure of said payments have a lien upon all the said Real Estate for the faithful payment of the same.

        My said sons Isaac and Daniel to pay all debts that may be due at the time of my decease.

        4th. And I hereby appoint my brother Avery Hearsey and my son Isaac Hearsey joint Executors of this my last Will and Testament hereby revoking all former Wills by me made.

                In Witness Whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this twenty second day of August in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and thirty six.

                                                                                                                                                Daniel Hearsey                                (seal)

        Signed, sealed, published and declared by the above named Daniel Hearsey to be his last Will and Testament in the presence of us, who at his request and in his presence have hereunto subscribed our names as witnesses to the same.

        Avery Hersey

        Charlotte Hersey

        Charles H. Blaney

 

Presented for probate on 29 Nov. 1836 by Avery Hersey and Isaac Hersey, the Executors therein named, and proved by Charlotte Hersey and Charles H. Blaney, two of the subscribing witnesses. Letters Testamentary were granted to Avery Hersey and Isaac Hersey, the Executors.

 

Avery Hersey and Isaac Hersey, of Abington, were granted Administration with the Will annexed of the Estate of Daniel Hersey, late of Abington, Yeoman, on 29 Nov. 1836, with Joseph Wilkes and Jared Whitman, both of Abington, as sureties.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Daniel Hearsey, late of Abington, Yeoman, was appraised on 9 Dec. 1836 by Jared Whitman, John Wilkes and Joseph Wilkes, and totaled $5141.35, including his real estate valued at $3898.25, and his personal estate valued at $1243.10. Avery Hersey and Isaac Hersey, the Executors, gave their oath to the inventory on the first Tuesday of Apr. 1837.

 

Jared Whitman, John Wilkes and Joseph Wilkes, all of Abington and all Freeholders, were appointed to divide the Real Estate of Daniel Hersey, late of Abington, Yeoman, between his heirs on 4 Apr. 1837. The division was of the Real Estate of Daniel Hersey between his sons Isaac Hersey and Daniel Hersey was approved on 3 Oct. 1837, with Avery Hersey signing as Guardian to Daniel Hersey.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 78, p. 493-494, from FHL microfilm #0555264, Vol. 1G, p. 19, and Vol. 79, pp. 88, 423-426.

 

 

Will of Daniel Hersey of Abington, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1843) *

Know all men by these presents, that I Daniel Hersey of Abington in the County of Plymouth – being of sound mind and memory do make this my last Will and Testament in manner and form as follows.

        To my Wife Betsey Hearsey I give and bequeath all my real and personal Estate of every name and nature – the same to be at her disposal with the following restrictions and limitations – viz. should she die without heirs of her Body during the life of my Mother Hannah Hearsey – then the remainder to my mother during her life – with remainder to my Brother Isaac Hearsey and his heirs – but should my wife survive my mother and die without issue then the remainder to my Brother and his Heirs. – should my wife for any reason see cause to sell and dispose of any or all my real or personal Estate she shall be at perfect liberty so to do. – And I have the fullest confidence that she will so manage my said Estate as to comply so far as she may – with the disposition as above made.

And I hereby appoint my wife Betsey Hersey – sole Executrix of this my last will and testament, hereby revoking all former will by me made. —

  In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this sixth day of May in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and forty three.

                                                                                                                                                Daniel Hearsey                                (seal)

        signed, sealed, and declared by

        the said Daniel Hersey to be his

        last will and Testament in presence

        of us who at his request and in his

        presence have hereunto subscribed our

        names as Witnesses to the same

                Avery Hersey

                Charlott Hersey

                David Gurney 2d.

 

Presented for probate on the last Tuesday of Aug. 1843 by Betsey Hersey, the Executrix therein named, and proved by Avery Hersey and Charlotte Hersey, two of the witnesses therein subscribed. Letters Testamentary were granted to Betsey Hersey, the Executrix therein named.

 

Isaac Hersey of Abington was granted Administration with the Will annexed of the estate of Daniel Hersey, late of Abington, Yeoman, on 10 Jan. 1844, Betsey Hersey, the Executrix therein named having since deceased without completing the settlement of the Estate, with Avery Hersey and Jared Whitman, both of Abington, as sureties.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Daniel Hersey, late of Abington, Yeoman, was appraised by John Wilkes, Joseph Wilkes, and Albert Dyer on 12 Jan. 1844, his real estate totaled $831.10, and his personal estate totaled $117.15. Isaac Hersey, the Administrator with the Will annexed, gave his oath to the inventory on 13 Feb. 1844.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 85, p. 425-426, from FHL microfilm #0555268, Vol. 10A, p. 531, and Vol. 86, p. 87-88.

 

 

Will of Thomas Heyland of Scituate, Plymouth Colony (1682/3) *

                                The Last will and testament of Thomas Heyland Senir

In the name of god amen: ye fourteenth day of February in ye year of ye Lord one thousand six hundred eighty and two : I Thomas Heyland senir, of ye Town of Scituate in ye Jurisdiction of New Plymouth in New England yeoman being weak in body but of sound & perfect memory, god be praised for ye same) and knowing ye uncertainty of this life on earth & being Desirous to settle things in order, Do make this my last Will & Testament in maner & forme following –

That is to say first and principally I Commend my Soul to almighty god my creator & redeemer hopeing that I shall receive full pardon and free remission of all my sins, & be saved by the precious Death & meritts of my blessed saviour & Redeemer Jesus Christ, & my body to ye earth from whence it was taken, to be buried in such decent manner & Christian maner as to my Executor hereafter named shall be thought meet & Convenient. And as touching such worldly estate as ye lord in mercy hath lent me, my will & meaning is ye same shall be imployed and bestowed as hereafter by this my will is expressed. And first I do hereby revoke, renounce frustrate and make void, all Wills by me formerly made, and Declare and appoint this my last Will & testament. Item I give and bequeath to my Son Thomas Heyland a Debt of seventeen pounds in money Due to me from Nathaniel Tilden Also my will & meaning is that my said Son Thomas shall Immediately after my Decease posses & injoy to his sole proper use and behoofe, all my Greenfield lands, with all ye housing upon or near to ye sd land & to me apertaining and my peice of swamp, and all other my right & previledges & appurtenances to my said seat of land apertaining and two lotts of land lying between Israell Chittingtons & Henry Chittingtons with all ye meadow belonging to ye sd two lotts, untill his son my Grand child Thomas Heyland shall Compleat the twenty third year of his age, and my will is yt then ye said lands & other ye premises shall descend to my said Grandchild Thomas Heyland & ye heirs male of his body lawfully begotten to have & hold them for ever, and in case ye sd Grandchild Thomas Heyland shall Decease before ye twenty third year of his age be Compleated & without Issue male as aforesaid, or after ye sd terme appointed without issue male as aforesd then the sd lands and all other ye premises shall Descend to his younger brother my grandchild John Heyland & ye heirs male lawfully begotten of his body and for Defect of such heirs male as aforesd, shall returne to ye heirs female of ye body of my grandchild Thomas Heyland lawfully begotten, And in case of failture of such Issue of my grandchild Thomas Heyland then to ye heirs female of ye afore mentioned John Heyland, lawfully begotten as aforesaid: Also I give and bequeath to my son Thomas Heyland all that land & every parcell thereof he injoyeth by from or under me and whereof he hath had yet no legall assurance from me to injoy the said land & every parcell thereof During ye whole terme of his naturall life, as also twenty acres of land which I purchased of mr Hatherly lying beyond ye Sweet Swamp, and after his Decease to his son my Grand child John Heyland and the heirs male of his body lawfully begotten and for Defect of such heirs male, to ye heirs male of his Brother Thomas above said of his body lawfully begotten, and for want of such heirs male of my grandchild Thomas Heyland to returne to ye heirs female of ye aforesaid John Heyland and for want of such heirs female of ye said John Heyland, to ye heirs female of his brother Thomas aforesd: Also I give to my son Thomas Heyland aforesd two ten acre lotts of land ye one laying between ye widdow Dedsons and Samuell Hollbrooks on ye right hand, and ye other upon ye left hand, against ye land of Samuell Holbrooks, towards Benjamin Percies, lying forty rods square, and twenty acres of land lying at rounding, towards the Towne, and three quarters of a share (which is my whole right) in ye undevided Conehasset Land. To injoy to his owne Sole proper use & behoofe immediately after my Decease, & thence forth during ye whole Terme of his naturall life, and then my will is, ye said parcels of land shall goe to his two sons aforesd. to be equally Devided between them, part & part like, and to ye heirs male of their bodies lawfully begotten, and in case of Decease without heirs or such heirs, my will and meaning is, That ye Heirship of these parcells of land, Last mentioned– & of all & any others, by me bequeathed to my two forementioned Grandchildren Thomas Heyland & John Heyland shall be regulated & stated by & according to what is above expressed of that kinds Respecting my two sd grandchildren; Moreover I give to my son Tho. Heyland & to his two aforementioned sons after him, to be equally Devided between them part & part like All my rights in ye undevided lands in Scituate, as I am an antient Planter Coming in by order and all that is wanting, to make up my accommodations, that by order of Court of right belongs to me, Also I give & bequeath to my two aforementioned grandchildren Thomas Heyland and John Heyland, two other Committe lotts the one of seaven acres, ye other of Ten acres, to each Share & share alike, furthermore by this my last Will and Testament I Do Constitute and appoint my afforementioned Grandchild Thomas Heyland Sole heir of my seat of land which lyeth it Waldern in old England against Waldern down towards Heiffield, and my will is that my son Thomas Heyland shall have to his own use & behoofe annually During ye time of his life, one third of ye Rent for ye sd seat, and in like manner one third of ye Rent shall annually be reserved to my sd grandchild Thomas Heyland after ye twenty third year of his age expired, in like maner the other third of ye Rent of ye sd seat, to be annually divided by even portions, between my four Daughters, Elyzabeth James, Sarah Turner, Mary Bryant and Deborah Tickner, During ye terme of their naturall lives, and after their decease the whole Rent to remaine to himself my sd grandchild Thomas Heyland, and in case of Defect of Such heirs as above said ye Directions for heirship above given to be attended; Item I give my house at Tenterden in Kent to my son Thomas Heyland during ye terme of his naturall life, and after his Decease to my grandchild his younger son John Heyland, and his heirs in maner as above expressed for ever, Item I give & bequeath by this my last will and Testament unto my grandchild Philip James son of Francis James of Hingham Twenty pounds in Currant silver money of new England to be paid by Executor hereafter named, and my will & meaning is that the sd Philip James shall therefor annually allow to his mother my Daughter Elyzabeth James, twenty shillings in like money as aforesd During ye whole terme of her naturall life Item I give and bequeath to my Daughter Sarah Turner Ten pounds in Currant silver money of new England to be paid by my Executor hereafter named, Item To my Daughter Mary Bryant I give and bequeath by this my Last Will & Testament ye sum of fifteen pounds of Currant silver money of New England to be paid by ye Executor to this my Will, Item to Issabell Witherell some time wife to my son Samuell Heyland and now to Samuell Witherell, I give & bequeath forty shillings of Currant silver money of new England to be paid by my executor hereafter named, Item to my Daughter Deborah Tickner I give & bequeath ye sum of five pounds of Currant silver money of New England to be paid by my Executor hereafter named. Item I give & bequeath to my grandchild Benjamin Briant Son of my Daughter Mary Briant a parcell of land Conteyning twenty acres being part upland & part Swamp, lying in Scituate Township near to ye place Comonly called, and known by ye name of New found marsh, and joynning upon one side & one end upon land of John Turner Senir, togeather with all my Right in Long marsh by virtue of any grant or grants or by any other way or means whatsoever to have and to hold to him ye said Benjamin his heirs and assignes for ever, and to be in his fathers posession during his non age, Item I give to my foresaid grandchild Benjamin Bryant ye sum of fifteen pounds of Currant silver money of New England, to be improved in purchasing more medow to be laid to ye aforesaid land, which money is to be paid by my Executor hereafter named, Also I give & bequeath to my Grandchild Elyzabeth Briant ye Sum of seventeen pounds, of Currant silver money of New England to be paid by my Executor hereafter named, and my will and meaning is that all these money Legacies, shall be Discharged and paid to ye severall persons respectively or such as have ye Care of, or are to reseive for any of them bona fide, according to ye true intent & meaning of this my last Will & Testament, and within ye space of three monthes after my decease at ye furthest, furthermore I Do Declare & Constitute and appoint my son Thomas Heyland sole Executor of this my last will & Testament, Item To my grandchild Joseph Studson I give and bequeath the sum of five pounds in Currant silver money of New England to be paid by my Executor as aforesaid, as also ye seat where on his father lives now, which seat I reserved for my Daughter Studsons heirs before marriage as appears by ye Towne Record. These words (begotten to, is) interlined before Signing and sealing, these words (I give and bequeath) & these five pounds) hemd in Before signing & Sealing:

This Instrument was Declared by ye above sd                                                                Thomas Heiland

Thomas Heyland to be his last Will & Testament                                                                                                        (seal)

the Day of ye Date above written in presence of us

Witnesses & signed & sealed at ye same time                                                               Thomas Heiland

Job Randall,  Joseph Hinchman;

 

An Inventory of ye goods and estate of Thomas Hilland Deceased of Scituate Taken by us whose names are hereunto Subscribed this third Day of May 1683 –

Total £361.18.00.                                                                                                                Isaak Buck Senir

                                                                                                                                                John Allin

on the oath of Thomas Hiland Junir

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth Colony Records, Vol. 4, Book 2, p. 33-35.

 

 

Will of Deborah Hicks of Flushing, Queens County, Province of New York (1712) *

Deborah Hicks Widdow Late Wife of Thomas Hicks Deced being weake of body but well in understanding and Memory Blessed be God for it I think it Convenient to Settle and Dispose of what Estate my Deced husband Left me in order thereunto I doe Make Constitute and appoint this to be my Last Will and Testament in manner and form following, First I give and bequeath unto my welbeloved Friends Benjamin Field and Elizabeth his Wife Fifteen pounds with my youngest Son Stephenson Hicks to bring him up, Item I give & bequeath all the Remaineing part of my Estate to be Equally divided Amongst my eight Children hereafter named that is to say Abigall, Deborah, Mary, Elizabeth, Hannah, Martha, Whits Stephenson Hicks, also my Daughter Martha, I bequeath to my Loveing Friend Martha Thorne and my Daughter Hannah I bequeath to my Dear Cousins Robert and Phebe Field Desireing them to bring up my Dear Children in the way of truth and fear of God, Further I doe ordaine Constitute and appoint my welbeloved Friends John Rodman Robert Field, Francis Doughty and Samuel Bown to be Executors to order and Dispose of my Children and their portions according to their Discretion to the best advantage for the use of my Children Lastly In Testimony Whereof I have hereunto Set my hand and affixed my Seal this fourteenth Day of the fourth Month one thousand Seaven hundred and Twelve

                                                                                                                                                Deborah Hicks                 (seal)

Signed Sealed and declared this to be her Last Will and Testament in the presence of us

James Scriven James Jackson, John X Holyer

 

Presented on 24 July 1712, and Administration was granted to Robert Field and Francis Doughty, two of the Executors in the within will named, John Rodman and Samuell Bown two other Executors in the said Will named having renounced their rights of Executorship, on 21 Oct. 1712.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from New York County Probate Vol. 8, p. 133-134.

 

 

Will of Jacob Hicks of Hempstead, Queens County, Province of New York (1764) *

                                In the twenty ninth Day of October in the Year of our Lord Christ Seventeen hundred Sixty four I Jacob Hicks of Hempsted in Queens County on Nassau Island and in the Province of New York Yeoman Do make this my last Will and Testament first I give the use of all my Land and Meadow to my Wife and to my son Charles Hicks equally between them as long as my Wife shall remain my Widow and at the Marriage or Death of my Wife I give all my Land and Meadow to my Son Charles Hicks and to his heirs and assigns forever if my son Charles will pay the sum of three hundred and fifty Pounds New York Money to my son James Hicks in four Equill Payments the first to be paid to him at the Age of twenty one Year Old and so be paid every year yearly till the whole is paid and my son Charles shall also pay the sum of Fifty Pound to my Daughter Elizabeth Johnse in one years time after the Death of my Wife but in Case my Son Charles shall refuse to pay the above mentioned Legacys then I Do hereby Order and impower my Executors hereafter named Or the Surviver of them to sell as much of my Land Or Meadows which I have above given to my son Charles as will pay the above mentioned four hundred Pounds and to pay it as abovesd  I give my Negroe boy called Will to My son Charles I give to my Daughter Hannah Seaman the sum of twenty Pound out of my moveable Estate, I give to my two Daughters Abigil Hicks and Mary Hicks the sum of two hundred Pound and eight Cows and Calfs to be equally divided between them two and be paid to each of them on their Mariage Day. I give the use of all the remaining part of my moveable Estate not yet Disposed of after my just Debts and funeral Charges are paid equal between my Wife and my son Charles as long as my Wife shall remain my widow and in Case my wife shall see case to marry then I give to her the sum of One hundred pounds and the best Bed and furneture that I have in My House, but this with all priveledges above given to her I give her in lue of her thirds and Dowry and not otherways and at the Marriage or Deth of my Wife I give to my son Charles two of the best Horses that I shall have and my Waggons Plowes and Harrows and the remaining part of my moveable Estate not yet Disposed of which I have given my Wife and Charles the use of I give it at the Marriage or Death of my Wife to be Equilly Devided to my three Daughters Viz Hannah Seaman Abegil Hicks and Mary Hicks and in Case my son James Hicks should happen to Die before he shall come to lawfull age and leave no Issue my will is that the three hundred and fifty Pound that I have Ordered my son Charles to pay to my son James shall be paid to all my Daughters thir Shares shall be equal and alike and if he refuses to pay it to them then I order My Executors to sell as much of Land or Meadow as will pay it and to pay it to them and in case my son Charles Hicks shall Die before he comes to full age and leaves no Issue then I give all My Land and Meadow that I have above given to him to my son James Hicks to him and to his heirs and assigns for Ever if he will pay the sum of three hundred and fifty pounds to be equilly Devided to all my Daughters or else I do hereby or my Executors here after named or the Surviver of them to sell as much of my Land or Meadow as will pay it and to sell and pay it as abovesaid and lastly I hereby appoint make and Constitute my brother John Hicks and my Son in Law David Seaman my Executors of this my last will and Testament and I do hereby revoke disanul and make Void all and every other Will before this time by me Willed or made ratafying and alowing this and no other to be my last Will and Testament, In Witness hereof I the said Jacob Hicks have hereunto Set to my hand and Seal the Day and Year above written

                                                                                                                                                Jacob Hicks                                       (seal)

                                                Signed Sealed and Declared to be my last Will and Testament in presence of Joseph Prior, Silas Hicks, Patrick Mott

 

Presented for probate on 25 March 1769, and proved by Joseph Prior and Silas Hicks, of said County Yeomen. Letters of Administration were granted to John Hicks and David Seaman, the Executors, on 22 May 1769.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from New York County Probate, Wills Vol. 27, p. 37-40, copied from original Libor 27, p. 36-38.

 

 

Will of John Hicks of Hempstead, Queens County, Province of New York (1672) *

                                The Testamt. of Jno. Hicks late of

                                Hempstead, Justice of ye Peace. ~

The Last Will & Testamt of Jno. Hicks of Hempstead being weak in Body, but sound in Understanding & Memory. In the first Place Committing my Soule to God in Christ my Redeemer, & in The next place I dispose of my Estate as followeth. //

    First I doe make my Sonn Thomas Hicks Executor. of all my Estate, Housing, Land, Moveables, & Immoveables, Debts & Creditt, upon this Condition, paying these Legacyes following. //

    Forasmuch as there was an Agreemt heretofore between mee & my Wife upon our Enking into Marriage of certaine Revenues thereby to bee pd to my wife dureing ye time of her Widdow-hood, if it pleasd God to take mee away first, Shee now being desireous to relinquish those Condiĉons; & that former Agreemt. (upon a Considerable Sume propounded by her selfe For her own Satisfaction; My Will is that my Sonn Thomas pay to my Wife Rachel Hicks one hundred pounds in Neat Cattle according to Wheat at five shillings pr Bushell; & ye Bed & Bedding that shee usually Lyeth on, with all its furniture, & one Brass-Kettle, & ye Lesser Iron Pott, besides her own wearing Cloaths, and what Goods my said Wife brought wth her to mee. Also I give to every one of my Daughter Hannah Havilands Children, a yearling Colt or a two yeare old Heyfer to each of them as ye Executor shall see meet, to pay either in Heyfers or Colts. //

    Also I give to my Daughter Hannah one hundred pounds to bee paid two third parts in Neat Cattle, & one third part in Horse kinde; Also I give to my Son Thomas his Children, to each of them a Yearling Colt, or two yeare old Heyfers, which of them the Executor. shall see Cause to pay to them. //

    Also I give to my Son in Law Josyas Starr one Mare come two yeare old, one Heyfer come three yeare old; And for ye Confirmaĉon of this my said Will in all ye aforemenĉoned Particulars I doe hereunto sett my Hand & Seale this 29th of Aprill Anno Dom 1672.—

Also in Testimony of her                                                                                                   John Hickes

Resignaĉon of ye former                                                                                                    Rachell Hickes

Agreemt & Satisfaction wth                                                                                                                                               (seals)

this Rachell Hicks doth

hereto subscribe her Hand ye

Day & Date abovesaid .//

                Witnesses              Jonah Fordham

                                                Richd. Valentine .//

                This Will proved in ye Cort of Sessions at Jamaica –

                June ye 14th.  Enterd by Cedr. of Court by mee –

                                                                                                Anthony Waters Clark.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from New York County Probate, Vol. 1, p. 164-165.

 

 

Will of Thomas Hicks Jr. of Flushing, Queens County, Province of New York (1712) *

I Thomas Hicks Junr. of Flushing in Queens County &c. being weake and Indisposed in body but of perfect Memory for which I Bless God for it, But Calling to mind the uncertainty of this Life which is mortall and Transitory and that it behoofeth all man to Set in order all worldly Concern Soo that after Death noo trouble or Controversys may afterwards arise Concerting the same, am willing at this time to make my Last Will and Testament in manner hereafter following; First and principally I Recommend my Soule to God that gave it and my body to the Earth of which it was taken and framed to be Desently Intered at the Discretion of those my relations that may Survive, And as touching my outward Estate that God of his goodness hath Indowed me with, I give bestow and bequeath in manner and form following. Item I give and bequeath unto my welbeloved Wife Deborah Hicks the use and benefit of my homestead were I now live (to wit) that part that was James Clement togeather with Ten Acres of wood Land at the North East Corner of my hundred acres Dureing her widdowhood with all houseing and orchard thereunto with the use and benefit of the meadow that I bought of Francis Doughty with the use of my whole plantation untill my Son Thomas Comes of age Item I give and bequeath unto my Son Thomas Hicks all the Lands and plantation that I bought of Richard Chew with all the hundred acres I bought of John Hirshman Excepting Ten acres Lying at the North East Corner which I will to my Son Augustin as also all the Meadow that was formerly James Clemet together with all houseing orchard and other the Immunitys thereunto belonging for him the Said Thomas Hicks to have & to hold and to his heires and assignes for Ever, Item I give and bequeath unto my Son Augustine Hickes all my Said Homestead that was James Clements after my Said Wifes Death or marriage togeather with Tenn Acres of wood land out of my hundred acres Lying at the north East Corner of said Land with all the meadow that was Francis Doughtys together with all houseing on lands and Immunityes thereunto belonging for him the said Augustine to have & to hold and to his heires and assignes for Ever, Item I will and bequeath to my Whitehead Hicks all the Ten acre Lotts bought and purchased by my Father in Law Daniel Whitehead Deced Situate and Lying upon the Southside of the hills for him to have and to hold and to his heires and assignes for Ever, Item my will is that my Son Thomas Hickes Shall pay to my Said Son Whitehead Hicks Twenty five pounds Current Money when the said Whitehead Comes of age, as also I will that my Son Augustine Shall Likewise pay to my Son Whitehead Ten pounds Current moneys when he Comes of age, Item My will is That If my Wife should happen to be with Child and if a son then I will that my Said Son Thomas Shall pay him Twenty five pounds and my Son Augustine Shall Make it up one hundred pounds but if a Daughter Then to have Equall with the rest of her Sisters, Item my will is that after Debts is paid that my Wife Shall have and Enjoye the one Equall third part of all my Moveable Estate, Item my will is that my Son Thomas Hicks shall pay his Brother Stephenson Hicks one hundred pounds Current Money to be paid In Manner following (that is to Say) one yeare after he Comes of age, He the said Thomas Shall pay for the use of his Brother Stephenson Twenty pounds untill the said Sume of one hundred pounds in Completed Item I give and bequeath to my six Daughters (to wit) Abigall Deborah Mary, Elizabeth, Hannah and Martha Hickes the Equall two thirds of all Moveable Estate to be Equally divided amongst them, I Doe ordaine nominate and appointed my welbeloved Wife Deborah Hicks my Sole Executrix of this my Last will requesting my Loveing Friends (to wit) my Brother Jacob Hicks, Thomas Willet junr. and James Jackson as overseers Desireing them to see this my will performed according to the true Intent and Meaning hereof revoaking and Disanulling all former wills by me heretofore Made and Declared this to be and Remaine my last will and Testament and in Confirmation whereof I have hereunto Subscribed my hand and affixed my Seal this thirtyeth Day of aprill Annoq Dm. one thousand Seven hundred and Twelve,

                                                                                                                                                Thomas Hicks                                   (seal)

Signed Sealed publisht and Declared this to be my last will and Testament in the presence of us,

James Clement, Francis Doughty, John Ryder.

 

To Robert Field, Francis Doughty and Jacob Hicks Greeting Whereas Thomas Hicks Junior Late of Flushing in Queens County Deced by his Last Will and Testament in writeing beareing Date the thirtyeth Day of Aprill one thousand Seven hundred and Twelve, among other things therein contained did appoint his then Wife Deborah Hicks Sole Executrix of this Said Will and Jacob Hicks Thomas Willet Junr. and James Jackson as overseers of his said Will, Which Said Deborah Hicks the Executrix as aforesaid is Since Likewise Deced before haveing proved the said Will or taken upon her the Burthen and Execution thereof, and the said Thomas Willet Junr. and James Jackson, two of the said overseers as aforesaid have refused to take upon them the Execution of the said Will, and Whereas the Said Deborah Hicks the Executrix before named haveing before her Death Likewise Made her Last Will and Testament in writeing and thereof appointed John Rodman and the aforesaid Robert Field and Francis Doughty and one Samuell Bown to be Executors of her Said Will which said John Rodman and Samuel Bown by a Deed or writeing under their hands and Seals being Dated the Sixteenth Day of october Instant haveing refused to take upon them the Burthen of the Said Executorship and Execution of the Said Will of the Said Deborah Hicks They the said Robert Field and Francis Doughty two of the Executors as aforesaid upon application by them made unto me have prayed that administration of the Estate of the Said Thomas Hicks togeather with his Said Last Will and Testament annexed may be granted to them and the Said Jacob Hicks (the other Insted named in the said Will of the said Thomas Hicks as aforesaid) In trust for the Children of the Said Thomas and Deborah Hicks Deced, And Whereas the Said Thomas Hicks haveing while he lived and at the time of his Death Goods rights and Creditts in divers places within this province by Means Whereof the full Disposition of all and Singular the goods rights and Creditts of the Said Thomas Hicks Deced … may be well and Faithfully administred and Converted and Disposed of to the uses in the said Will of the Said Thomas Hicks Mentioned Have Cause the Said Will to be annexed to these presents and do grant unto you the Said Robert Field Francis Doughty and Jacob Hicks … to Administer the Goods Chattells and Creditts of the Said Thomas Hicks Deced and Faithfully to Dispose of them … In Testimony whereof I have Caused the prerogative Seale to be hereunto affixed at New York this One and Twentieth Day of October Anno Dm. one thousand Seaven hundred and Twelve.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from New York County Probate Vol. 8, p. 130-133.

 

 

Will of Thomas Hicks of Flushing, Queens County, Province of New York (1727) *

                                                                                In the Name of God Amen Thomas Hicks of Flushing in Queens County on Nassau Island in the Colony of New York Gent. being now at this present Time in good Health and of sound Mind and Memory thanks be given to Almighty God for the same therefore Calling to mind the Mortality of Mans Nature and that it is appointed for all Men once to die do make and declare this to be my last will and Testament that is to say

                                                                                Principally and first of all I give and recommend my Soul into the Hands of God who gave it hoping thrõ the Death Merits and Passion of my dear Redeemer Jesus Christ to have full pardon of all my Sins pase quo to inherit Everlasting Life after Death my Body I commit to the Earth to be buried in a christian like and decent Manner at the Discretion of my Executors hereafter named nothing doubting but at the general Resurrection I shall receive the same again by the Mighty Power of God and touching such worldly affairs as it hath pleased God to Bless me in this Life I give devise & dispose of the same in Manner and form Following Viz.

                                                                                Imprimis It is my will and Desire that my funeral Charges and just Debts be honestly and faithfully paid & satisfied.

                                                                                Item I give and bequeath to my Grandson Thomas Hicks eldest Son and Heir of my Son Thomas Hicks deceased the Sum of five Shillings Current Money of New York to be paid him by my Executor hereafter named within three Months after my decease

                                                                                Item I give and bequeath to my Son Isaac Hicks my great History Book which is called Speed’s Chronicles of England

                                                                                Item I give and bequeath to my Son Benjamin Hicks my Silver Tankard

                                                                                Item I give and bequeath to my son Stephen Hicks all my Houses Lands and Meadows scituate lying and being in the Bounds of Flushing in Queens County aforesaid or else where in any part of the said County of Queens County which I have not as yet already parted with (my Right on the great Plains in the Township of Hempstead only Excepted) To have and to hold the aforesaid Houses Lands Meadow Grounds and Premisses with all any every of the Appurtenancs. (Except as before Excepted) unto him the said Stephen Hicks his heirs and assigns for Ever

                                                                                Likewise I give and bequeath to my aforesaid Son Stephen the Bed & furniture whereon he now lies Also all the Remainder of my Books the two Hatchells and likewise all my wearing apparel

                                                                                Item I give and bequeath to my six Sons (Viz) John, Jacob Isaac, Benjamin William and Stephen All my Right on the Great Plains in the Township of Hempstead in Queens County aforesaid (which I have already Reserved) To have and to hold the aforesaid Right of Plains and Premisses with all and every of the Appurtenances unto them the said John Jacob Isaac Benjamin William and Stephen and to each of their heirs and Assigns for Ever to be equally divided amongst them Share and Share alike

                                                                                Item I give & bequeath to my Daughter Phoebe Simmons the Sum of one hundred pounds lawful Money of New York to be paid to her or her Assigns within two years after my decease By my Executor hereafter named

                                                                                Item I give and bequeath to my Daughter Charity Hicks the Sum of two hundred and fifty pounds Current Money above said to be paid to her or her Assigns within two years after my decease as aforesaid by My Executor abovesaid

                                                                                I likewise give to my said Daughter Charity the Bed and Furniture whereon she now lies and also my Chest of Drawers

                                                                                Item I give and bequeath to my Daughter Mary Rushea the Sum of one hundred pounds Current Money abovesaid to be paid to her or her Assignes within two years after my decease by my Executor aforesd.

                                                                                Item I give and bequeath to my Grand Daughter Mary Hicks the Daughter of William Hicks my Silver Tumbler

                                                                                Item It is my Will and desire that as for the Remainder of my Houshold Goods within Doors (Cash Bills Bonds Books Accounts and other Reckonings which is or may be due or payable to me by any Person or Persons whatsoever Excepted I give and bequeath the same to My four Daughters and my grand Daughter (Viz) Phoebe Elizabeth Charity Mary and Sarah Evertt to be equally divided amongst them Share and Share alike,

                                                                                And it is further my desire that my two Sons Benjamin and Stephen be present at the Division of the Goods abovesaid and to see that the same be done equally without partiality

                                                                                Item I give & bequeath to my Son Stephen Hicks all the Money which is or shall be due or payable to me by any Person or Persons whatsoever at the time of my decease as also the Moneys which I shall have in my Possession or in the Hands or Possession of any Person or Persons in trust for me at the time of my decease as aforesaid

                                                                                Likewise all my Negroes and Indian Slaves Horses with their Kind Neat Cattle Sheep Hoggs Waggon Plows Harrows and all other Utencils belonging to my Farm to be and remain to my Said Son Stephen for Ever

                                                                                Item it is (Sic origine) will and desire that my two Sons (Vizt) Benjamin and Stephen be aiding and assisting to their Sister Charity in such Things and at her Request as may be serviceable to her in her affairs

                                                                                And Lastly I do hereby nominate constitute and appoint my said Son Stephen Hicks my whole and sole Executor of this my last Will and Testament And I do hereby disallow disannull and make void all and every other former will or wills by me at any time heretofore by me made or Executed allowing this and no other to be my last will and Testament

                                                                                In witness whereof I have put to my Hand and Seal this fifteenth day of May in the thirteenth year of the Reign of our Soveraign Lord George by the Grace of God over Great Britain France and Ireland King Defender of the Faith Sca. And in the year of our Lord God one thousand seven hundred and twenty seven

                                                                                                                                                Tho. Hicks                                          (seal)

Signed Sealed published pronounced and declared to the said Thomas Hicks to be his last Will and Testament

                Cornelius Van Wyck, John Washburn, T. Whitehead

 

Letters of Administration granted to Stephen Hicks, the Executor, on 28 Jan. 1741.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from New York County Probate, Vol. 14, p. 154-157, copied from original Liber 14, p. 182-186.

 

 

Will of Eleazer Hill of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1791) *

  In the name of God Amen – I Eleazer Hill of Bridgwater in the County of Plymouth, yeoman, being of sound mind & memory, but being under bodily infirmities, & calling to mind that it is appointed unto all men once to die, do make this my Last will & testament, and in the first place through the merits of a gracious mediator, do recommend my soul to the mercies of God who gave it & my body to be buried with decent Christian burial – and with respect to my worldly Goods & Chattells, I order that my just debts & funeral Charges be first paid, after which I Give & bequeath the remainder in manner following – vizt. ~

  First – I do Give & bequeath unto my beloved wife Anna Hall the Improvement, during her Life, of one third part of my real estate, she committing no waste therein – and also one third part of my Personal Estate after my debts & funeral Charges are paid, said third part of my personal estate to be hers forever

   Secondly – I Give & bequeath all my Estate both real & personal to my two nephews Jacob Hill & Eleazer Hill, Sons of my brother Jacob Hill, to be equally divided between them, except the above provision made for my wife, out of the personal Estate & also to my said two nephews Jacob & Eleazer the reversion of that part of my estate real, the improvement of which is given to my wife, during her Life

    Thirdly – I do hereby Constitute & appoint, Beza Hayward Esquire Executor of this my Last will & Testament, and I do hereby disallow of all wills by me heretofore made, declaring, publishing & ordaining this to be my Last will & testament – In Testimony whereof I do hereunto set my hand & Seal this twenty fifth day of July in the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred & ninety one ~

Signed, sealed, published & declared by                                                                        Eleazer Hill                                        (seal)

the said Eleazer Hill to be his Last will

& testament, in presence of

                Ephraim Cary junr

                Silvanus Hayward

                Bradford Mitchell

 

Presented for probate on 16 Sept. 1791 by Beza Hayward esqr., the Executor therein named, and proved by Ephraim Cary junr, Sylvanus Hayward and Bradford Mitchell, the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Beza Hayward esqr, the before named executor.

 

To the Hoñble Joseph Cushing esqr. Judge of Probate of wills in & for the County of Plymouth—Richard Perkins esqr. attorney to Anna Hill, widow of Eleazer Hill Late of Bridgwater deceased, doth hereby refuse to accept what is given her in the will, and prays her Dower by Law

                                                                                                                                Richd. Perkins Attorney to Anna Hill

 

Ephraim Cary junr. yeoman, Cushing Mitchell and Thomas Hayward, Gentlemen, all of Bridgwater, were appointed to appraise the estate of Eleazer Hill, late of Bridgwater, yeoman, on 16 Sept. 1791. The Inventory of the estate of Eleazer Hill, late of Bridgwater, dated 29 Sept. 1791, totaled £627.19.7, including his 45 acres of land and buildings thereon valued at £345. Beza Hayward of Bridgwater, esqr., the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 19 Oct. 1791.

 

John Whitman junr, Cushing Mitchell and Thos. Hayward, all of Bridgwater, Gentlemen, were appointed to set off to Anna Hill, widow of Eleazer Hill, late of Bridgwater, one moiety of the personal estate of the deceased, and her dower of thirds in the Real Estate of her husband, and to divide the balance of the real and personal estate between Jacob Hill junr. and Eleazer Hill, on 19 Oct. 1791. The division was dated 10 Nov. 1791, and approved on 12 Apr. 1792.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 31, pp. 432-433, 462-463, from FHL microfilm #0550716, and Vol. 33, p. 6-8.

 

 

Will of John Holman Jr. of Bridgewater, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1755) *

                In the Name of God Amen; the Thirty first day of March 1755, I John Holman Junr. of Bridgwater in the County of Plimouth in His Majesty’s Province of the Massachusets bay in New England Gentleman, being very sick & weak in Body, but of perfect mind & Memory thanks be Given to God, therefore calling unto Mind the Mortality of May Body & Knowing that it is Appointed Knowing that it is Appointed for all men Once to Dye do make & ordain this my Last Will & Testament, that is to say Principally & first of all I give and recommend my Soul into the hands of God that Gave it, & my Body I recommend to the Earth to be Buried in decent christain Burial at the Discretion of my Executorix, Nothing doubting but at the Generall resurrection I shall receive the same again by the mighty power of God of God, and as Touching such worldly Estate wherewith it hath pleased God to Bless me in this Life I Demise & Dispose of the same in the following manner & form ~

Imps. I Give & Bequeath to Ann, my Beloved wife whom I Likewise Constitute make & Ordain my sol Execrx. of this my Last Will & Testamt. All my Houshold Goods Free & Clear forever, and also the use & Improvment of all my improved Lands & Quick Stock & out doore Moveables untill my Son William arrives to the age of Twenty one years and then at his Arival to full Age I Order & Direct my sd. Execrx. to Deliver unto him the said William the One half of all the Quick Stock & our Doore moveables, then in Being & the Other half to her self During her Widdowhood Togather with the use & Improvment of One half of all my Buildings & One third part of the Improvment of all my improved Lands for & so Long as She shall live my Widdow she paying all my Just Debts and Funerall charges & Bring up my Children ~

Item I Give and Bequeath unto my Beloved son William Holman that part of my Homstead which lyeth upon the River Begining where Mattfield River runs into Satucket River which is the Bounds Between Thomas Wade’s land & this, & then Bounded by said Wade’s land runing Easterly untill it comes to Davide Conant’s lands & then by said Conant’s Land to the high way, and Bounded by the High way to the Roade that Leads to Plimouth & then Turning & runing Southerly Bounded by sd. roade to Isarel Hill’s House Lott, & then Bounded East of sd. Hill’s Lott to the Swamp & then through the Swamp Northerly to Joseph Latham’s land, & then Bounded by the lands of Joseph Latham westerly to the river, & so by the river Down Stream to the Bounds first mentioned togather with all my Buildings thereon, Also Seven Acres & a half of land which I Bought of Noah Washburn which Lyeth between Joseph Latham’s land & sd. Noah Washburn’s land, also alott of Cederswamp Lying Below Pimkins Bridge in the Township of Halifax which I Bought of Capt. John Loring’s To him & his heirs & Assigns forever as a Good, perfect & aboselute Estate of Inheritants in Fee simple to be by him & his peaceable & Quietly Possessed & Enjoyed ~

Item I Give and Bequeath to my four Daughter vizt. Sarah the wife of James Keith, & Ann, Abigail & Jane Holman Two peices or parcels of Land Lying in Bridgwater One peice whereof lyeth on the Southerly Side of the roade That Leads to Plimouth Bounded by said road & Bounded upon the High way that Leads from my House to David Connett’s and then Bounded upon the Southerly Side partly upon the lands of David Connett & partly upon the land of Seth Mitchell untill it comes to the abovesd. Plimouth roade Also My Lands that Lyeth at (aplace Know by) the name of Spring Meadow both Meadow Land and upland all That Adjoyns thereto all which Lands to be Equally Divided between them as to Quantity & Quality Excepting Sarah the wife of James Keith to whome I have Formerly Given the sum of Twenty six pounds thirteen shillings, & my Will is That Ann, Abigail & Jane each of them take the said sum or vallue of Twenty six pounds Thirteen shillings in said Lands, & Then Sarah with them Divide equally as abovesaid To them & there Heirs & Assigns forever as a Good & Absolute Estate of Inheritence in Fee simple to be by them peaceably & Quietly possessed & Enjoyed And I do Hereby uterly Disalow, revoke & Disanull all & every Other Former Testament In Witness whereof I have Hereunto Sett my hand & Seal the day and Year above written ~

Signed, Sealed, Published, Pronounced                                                                          John Holman Junr.                          (seal)

& Declared by the sd. John Holman Jur.

As his Last Will & Testament In the

presence of us the Subscribers.

Thomas Whitman

John Orcutt

Beriah Hill

 

Presented for probate on 2 June 1755 by the Execx. therein named, and proved by Thomas Whitman and John Orcutt, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to the Widdow Ann Holman of Bridgwater, the Executrix, on 2 June 1855, with Thomas Witman and John Orcut, Yeoman, all of Bridgwater, as sureties.

 

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

To James Keith of Bridgwater in the County of Plimouth aforesd. Yeoman Greeting

Whereas John Holmes Junr. Late of Bridgwater aforesd. Gentleman deceased, on the 31st day of March Anno. Domi, 1755, did Sign, Seal & publish his Last Will and Testament in writing before Sufficiant Witnesses in which said Will after Gifts and Legacies therein made appointed his wife Anna Holman (who was then in full Life Sole Executrix of the Same Will and Testament, and which Will was Proved approved approved & allowed, but the said Ann also Soon after dying, and before the Executing of the said Will and Setling thesd, Estate Agreable thereto, Administration Cum Testamento Annexo is Hereby Comitted unto you the said James Keith of all and Singular the Goods Chattles and Credits of the aforesaid Testator Faithfully to Dispose of the same according to Law and the Directions of the said Testament…In Testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and the seal of the said Court of Probate Dated at Plimouth this Seventh day of March Anno, Domi, 1757.

                                                                                                                                                Jno. Cushing

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 13, p. 527-529, from FHL microfilm #0551540, and Vol. 14, p. 234½.

 

 

Will of Abigail Holmes of Plymouth, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1807) *

In the Name of God amen I trust agreeably to his will believing my days to be nearly numbered & hoping for Salvation in the Mercy & Merits of the Saviour of Man; & fully possessing my Senses I Abigail Holmes of Plymouth do thus dispose of my property —

        Firstly after my Debts & funeral Expences are discharged I give to my Daughter Abigail Holmes all my Estate both Real & personal of all kinds & wherever found – viz my House & the Lands adjoining, my wood Lot near Cooks pond, & my moveable & wearing Apparel —

        Secondly I give my Daughter Hannah Eaton a Right jointly with Abigail to live in & occupy the Easterly part of my House, so long as she remains single, reserving to the two Westerly Rooms a right to use & occupy the Kitchen for House keeping. —

        Thirdly I hereby direct my Executor in six Months after my decease to pay my sons Lemuel Holmes, Joseph Holmes & my Daughters Martha Bartlett Priscilla Rickard & Lydia Keen, as a Token of my Affection, each one Dollars in full of all that I can give them —

        Fourthly ‘Tis my Will & I hereby appoint Ellis Holmes of Plymouth the Executor of this my last will & Testament —  In Testimony of all which I hereto set my Name & Seal August thirteenth eighteen hundred & seven —

signed & sealed & acknowledged to be her last Will

in presence of —

Zah. Bartlett                                                                                                                          Abigail Holmes                (seal)

Chandler Holmes

Ichd. Shaw junr.

 

Presented for probate on 12 Jan. 1808 by Ellis Holmes, the Executor therein named, and proved by Zacheus Bartlett Esqr. and Ichabod Shaw junr., two of the witnesses.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 42, p. 450, from FHL microfilm #0550902.

 

 

Will of Abijah T. Holmes of West Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1861) *

                In the name of God, Amen. I, Abijah T. Holmes of West Bridgewater in the County of Plymouth and Commonwealth of Massachusetts, being of sound mind and memory, but, knowing the uncertainty of this life, do, this first day of January, in the year of Our Lord one thousand eight hundred and sixty one, make and publish this my last Will and Testament, in manner and form following, that is to say:

                I give and bequeath to my two daughters Lusania and Wealthy, all the household furniture now in my possession, which was the property of their mother, my former wife, to have and to hold the same in equal shares to them and their heirs and assigns forever.

                To my Son John A. I give and bequeath the sum of five dollars to be paid to him upon his arriving at the age of twenty one years.

                All the rest of my property real and personal of which I shall die seized and possessed I give devise and bequeath to my wife Susanna to have and to hold to her and her heirs and assigns forever, upon condition however that in case she shall during her life see fit to sell and dispose of the property given to her, she shall then pay over to my said daughters, Lusania the sum of one hundred dollars, and to my said daughter Wealthy the sum of one hundred dollars. And if she shall not so sell the same during her life, that then the same shall upon her decease be sold and out of the proceeds thereof there shall be paid to my said two daughters the said sums respectively;

                I also will and direct that my said daughters Lusania and Wealthy shall until their marriage if they desire continue to reside with my wife and other children, in the house where I now dwell, if the same shall not be sold by my wife.

                In making the provision herein before mentioned to my beloved wife, I have trusted that during her life and upon her decease she will suitably provide for my remaining children Edwin, & Susan A., for whom I have made no provision;

                Lastly. I hereby appoint my friend Sumner A. Hayward of North Bridgewater to be sole Executor of this my last Will and Testament and that he shall not be required to give bond.

                In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and seal this first day of January, A.D. 1861.

                                                                                                                                                Abijah T. Holmes                             (seal)

                Signed, sealed and declared by the above named Abijah T. Holmes to be his last Will and Testament in the presence of us, who at his request and in his presince have subscribed our names as witnesses.

                                                                                                                                                Franklin Keith

                                                                                                                                                Samuel French

                                                                                                                                                Sumner A. Hayward

 

Sumner A. Hayward, of North Bridgewater, was granted Letters Testamentary on the estate of Abijah T. Holmes, late of West Bridgewater, on 28 Oct. 1862, with Ambrose Hayward and Franklin Keith, both of North Bridgewater, as sureties.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 104, p. 201-202, from FHL microfilm #0555646, and Vol. 114, p. 83.

 

 

Will of Abner Holmes of Kingston, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1813) *

In the name of God amen, I Abner Holmes of Kingston in the County of Plymouth Housewright being weak & infirm in Body but of sound mind & memory do this fifteenth day of April in the Year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred & thirteen make and publish this my last will & Testament in manner following that is to say.

        I give to my beloved Wife Sarah Holmes all my Estate both Real & personal and wherever to be found, after my just debts are paid, to have & to hold the same to her, her Heirs & Assigns forever. This I do because my Estate is small, & doubt not but she will make a good use of it. I would gladly give to all my dear Children, if I had it to give, I here call them all by name to let them know, I am not wanting in affection to them, viz. Ansel Holmes, Patience Harlow, Huldah Holmes, Sally Bradford, Lydia Holmes, Peleg Holms Bathsheba Nelson Holmes, George Holmes and William Holmes Son of my deceased son Abner Holmes, whom I commend to the blessed God who gave them to me. Lastly I do constitute & appoint Martin Parris Esquire of Kingston, sole Executor to this my last will & Testament —

In Testimony whereof I do hereunto set my hand & Seal the day & Year above written –

signed sealed published pronounced & declared

by the said Abner Holmes as & for his last

Will & Testament, in the presence of us, who at

his request & in his presence hereunto set our

Names as Witnesses to the same.—                                                                                Abner Holmes                   (seal)

                Ezekiel Bonney

                Lydia Everson

                Deborah Bonney

 

Presented for probate on 26 Mar. 1814 by Martin Parris Esqr., the Executor therein named, and proved by Ezekiel Bonney, Lydia Everson, and Deborah Everson [sic], the witnesses.

 

John Faunce, George Russell Esqr. And Caleb Bates, Mariner, all of Kingston, were appointed to appraise the estate of Abner Holmes, late of Kingston, Housewright, on 26 Mar. 1814. The Inventory of the Estate of Abner Holmes, late of Kingston, was dated 30 Apr. 1814, and totaled $697.00, his homestead in Kingston containing one acre with the buildings thereon valued at $500. Martin Parris Esqr., the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 28 May 1814.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 45, pp. 315-316, 380-381, from FHL microfilm #0550903.

 

 

Will and Codicil of Amasa Holmes of Plymouth, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1846) *

                Be it known, that I, Amasa Holmes, of Plymouth in the County of Plymouth, yeoman, being in feeble health, but of sound and disposing mind and memory, after commending my spirit to God, desiring to direct the disposition of such estate as I may leave at my decease, do hereby make, publish and declare this Instrument to be my last Will and Testament, in manner following, viz: —

                First, I give and bequeath to my beloved wife Betsey Holmes all my household furniture, with the exception of two beds and bedding which I shall hereafter dispose of: and I also give her what ever provisions and other articles may be on hand in the house at my decease. I also give her the use and improvement of the southerly half of my dwelling house for and during the term of her natural life, with necessary privileges around the same. I also give her in money and other articles as she may require for her comfort and support through life, such an amount as she may demand, not exceeding two hundred dollars in any one year, the same to be paid equally by my four sons, hereafter named as residuary devisees and legatees in this will. The provision here in made for her, is in lieu of dower, and any other allowance from my estate.

                Second, I give and bequeath in trust to my son Charles T. Holmes, for the use and benefit of my daughter Ellen B. Holmes, the sum of one thousand dollars, leaving it to the discretion of my said trustee to pay over to her such part of the interest and income thereof, and also such part of the principal, as her necessities and comfort may seem to require from time to time. And this bequest for her uses and benefit is made on condition that my said daughter makes no claim against my estate for services and no charge is to be made against her for board. I also give her one bed and bedding.

                Third. I give and bequeath in trust to my son Isaac B. Holmes, for the use and benefit of my son George W. Holmes the sum of one thousand dollars, leaving it to the discretion of my said trustee to pay over to him such part of the interest and income there of, and also such part of the principal as his necessities and comfort may from time to time seem to require. And this bequest for his use and benefit is made on condition that my said son makes no claim against my estate for services, and no charge is to be made against him for board or other things furnished him, or paid for him by me. I also give him one bed and bedding.

                Fourth. I give and bequeath in trust to my son Amasa Holmes for the use and benefit of Nathan Richmond who has been a faithful servant in my family, the sum of two hundred dollars on condition that said Nathan makes no claim against my estate for services, leaving it to the discretion of said trustee to pay over to said Nathan from time to time such portions of the principal and interest of said sum as said trustee may think his comfort and benefit requires.

                In relation to the three last bequests, it is my will, that in case either of the persons therein named as trustees should refuse to accept the said trust, or should die before completing the same, or should from any cause become incapacitated for the discharge thereof, the Judge of Probate for said County should appoint a Trustee in the place of the Trustee so declining, dying or becoming incapacitated, as aforesaid, with the same powers and discretion herein given to said original trustees. And in case the said Ellen, George, or Nathan should die leaving any part of the trust fund herein given for their respective benefit unexpended, then I give and bequeath the balance of said trust fund in either case, to my four sons herein after named, as residuary legatees to them their heirs and assigns. In case of the appointment of a new trustee as aforesaid, it is my desire that the Judge of Probate, in making a new appointment, should give preference to one of my residuary legatees.

                Fifth. I give and bequeath to my grand-daughter Abby T. Holmes, child of my deceased son, Temple Holmes the sum of five hundred dollars, And I direct my Executors hereafter named to pay over to her from time to time the interest of said sum, but to retain the principal thereof to be paid to her whenever in the opinion of the Judge of Probate for said County, it shall be most for the interest and advantage of said Abby. And in case said Abby should die leaving a child or children before having received said bequest, then and in that case I give the same, with any interest that may be due thereon, to her child or children then living, otherwise the same is to become a part of the residuum of my estate, and to be divided equally between my said four sons hereafter named as residuary legatees, their heirs and assigns forever.

                Sixth, I give and bequeath to my three grandsons Sidney T. Holmes, Frederick L. Holmes and Harrison Holmes, Ten dollars each, and I direct my Executors to deposit the same in the Plymouth Institution for Savings in their respective names.

                Seventh, I give and devise to my son Isaac B. Holmes a portion of my homestead farm bounded and described as follows to wit, beginning at the ditch in Otis Nichols range, thence by the said ditch and fences North seventy five degrees West seventeen rods and four links to the road, passing in front of his his house, thence North sixty one degrees West fifty four rods to the wall which now separates the meadow from the pasture, thence South fifty degrees West to the pond, and thence by the pond and land of said Nichols to the bound first mentioned including two islands. The foregoing is to be valued at twenty four hundred and twenty five dollars, for the purposes hereafter mentioned. To have and to hold the same to him the said Isaac B. Holmes his heirs and assigns forever, the same to be chargeable with the payment of his portion of my debts, and the legacies given in this will.

                Eighth. I give and devise to my son Charles T. Holmes a portion of my homestead farm bounded and described as follows: viz. beginning by the ditch at Isaac N. Holmes share, as above described, being said Isaac’s Easterly corner in Otis Nichols range, thence northeasterly by said ditch thirteen rods, thence North five degrees west three rods and five links to a corner, thence North sixty five degrees west twenty three rods to the easterly side of the road leading to the mill thence North Easterly by said road four rods, thence from the opposite or westerly side of the road Northeasterly seventeen rods to the ditch thence northerly and westerly by the ditch to Charles Bartletts lands, thence through the swamp in the line of Charles Bartlett’s land to the pond, thence by the pond to the share above devised to Isaac, and by his share to the first bounds, with the buildings thereon, subject to his mothers improvement of the Southerly half of the house as is above mentioned, Also a lot of Woodland about eleven acres, called Grandmother’s wood lot, and was assigned to me in the division of her estate. The foregoing is to be valued at twenty two hundred dollars, for the purposes hereafter mentioned. To have and to hold the same to him the said Charles T. Holmes, his heirs and assigns forever, the same to be chargeable with the payment of his portion of my debts, and the legacies given in this will.

                Ninth. I give and devise to my son Amasa Holmes all the residue of my homestead farm, lying northerly of the share above given to my son Charles, and this is to be valued at thirteen hundred and seventy five dollars for the purposes hereafter mentioned. To have and to hold the same to him, the said Amasa Holmes, his heirs and assigns forever, the same to be chargeable with the payment of his portion of my debts, and the legacies given in this will.

                Tenth. I give and devise to my son Caleb B. Holmes my undivided half part of Barnes Point, so called, which I own in common and undivided with my son Amasa. Also a piece of pasture and meadow land at the point near Nathan Holmes and is the same assigned me in the division of my mothers estate. I also relinquish to him a mortgage which I hold of certain lands in the State of Maine, with the debt secured thereby. All the foregoing is to be valued at Eleven hundred and fifty dollars for the purposes hereafter mentioned. To have and to hold the same to him, the said Caleb B. Holmes, his heirs and assigns forever, the same to be chargeable with the payment of his portion of my debts, and the legacies given in this will.

                Lastly, I give, devise, and bequeath all the rest, residue, and remainder of my real and personal estate to my four sons, Amasa Holmes, Caleb B. Holmes, Charles T. Holmes, and Isaac B. Holmes, their respective heirs and assigns in such proportions that with the valuations of the respective devises herein before made to them, shall give to each of my said four sons an equal share of my estate. And in case there shall be no residuum of my estate, or the same shall be insufficient for this purpose, after the payment of my debts and the foregoing legacies, I require, and upon this condition I have made the foregoing devises to them, that each one who shall have received more than an equal share, according to the foregoing valuation shall pay to those who shall have received less than an equal share, such sum as shall be necessary to give to each of my said four sons an equal share of my estate.

                And I do hereby constitute and appoint my said four sons, Amasa Holmes, Caleb B. Holmes, Charles T. Holmes and Isaac B. Holmes, joint Executors of this my last will and testament.

                And I do hereby declare this instrument written upon two sheets of Paper, to be my last will and testament, and do revoke any other or former will by me made.

                In witness whereof I have hereto set my hand this seventh day of March, in the year one thousand eight hundred and forty six.

                                                                                                                                                Amasa Holmes

Signed, sealed, published and declared by the said Amasa Holmes, as and for his last Will and Testament, in presence of us, who, at his request and in his presence and in presence of each other have hereto set our hands as witnesses.

                                                                                                                                                Jacob H. Loud

                                                                                                                                                Jno. B. Thomas

                                                                                                                                                Alexr. Jackson

 

                Be it known, that I, Amasa Holmes the testator within named, being desirous of making some alteration in my will do hereby make publish and declare this instrument to be a codicil to my said last Will and Testament, herein before written.

                I do hereby revoke, annul, and make void all the devises and bequests made to my son Caleb B. Holmes his heirs and assigns by me in the foregoing will, and every benefit and provision made for him therein, and I give devise and bequeath to my son Amasa Holmes, his heirs and assigns all the Estate, both Real and Personal and mixed, whether specific or a part of the residuum of my estate which in my foregoing will I devised and bequeathed to my said son Caleb B. Holmes, his heirs and assigns, to have and to hold the same to him the said Amasa Holmes, his heirs and assigns with all the privileges and appurtenances thereof, and subject to the same liabilities, charges, burdens, restrictions and limitations as were imposed therein by said will in trust nevertheless to and for the following uses and purposes and for none other, to wit, to suffer and permit my said son Caleb B. Holmes to occupy and improve the real estate devised in trust aforesaid, for and so long as he can personally occupy and improve the same, and no longer, and to pay over the interest and income of the personal estate devised in trust as aforesaid and any part of the principal, at his discretion from time to time so long as the said Caleb b. Holmes can personally enjoy the same, and no longer, and in case any event shall happen, by which my said son Caleb B. Holmes cannot occupy and improve the said real estate personally or enjoy the income and interest of said personal estate, then and in that case I direct my said trustee to retain the possession of said real estate and the rents thereof, and the interest and income of said personal estate in his hands until the same can be personally enjoyed by my said son Caleb B. Holmes, it being my purpose, will and intention that the above portion of my estate shall be for his personal comfort and use and be in no way liable for the present debts of my said son Caleb B. Holmes. And if any of said trust estate shall be in the hands of said trustee or any other trustee unexpended at the decease of my said son Caleb, then I give, devise, and bequeath said residue of said trust estate to the children of my said son Caleb their heirs and assigns forever, or to such persons as my said son Caleb may by last Will, duly executed, devise and bequeath the same, And I authorize and empower said Trustee to sell and convey all and any part of the real estate devised in trust as aforesaid, with the consent of said Caleb, at his discretion And I authorize the Judge of Probate to appoint new trustees, whenever necessary, to carry out the intentions of my will, and this Codicil, with the same powers and under the same restrictions and limitations as are imposed on the Trustees herein named.

                I hereby ratify and confirm the foregoing will, except so far as altered by this codicil, and I declare this to be a part of my last will and testament. In testimony whereof, I have hereto set my hand this twelfth day of September, in the year eighteen hundred and forty six

                                                                                                                                                                his

                                                                                                                                                  Amasa  X  Holmes

                                                                                                                                                                mark

Signed, sealed, published and declared by the said Amasa Holmes as a codicil to his last will and testament, in the presence of us, who at his request and in his presence have hereto subscribed our names as witnesses.

                                                                                                                Alexr. Jackson

                                                                                                                T. E. Clarke

                                                                                                                Amasa Bartlett

 

Presented for probate on the first Monday of December 1846 by the Executors therein named, the will proved by John B. Thomas, Jacob H. Loud, and Alexander Jackson, the witnesses, and the codicil proved by Alexander Jackson and Amasa Bartlett, two of the witnesses. Letters Testamentary were granted to Amasa Holmes, Caleb B. Holmes, Charles T. Holmes, and Isaac B. Holmes, the executors therein named.

 

Vol. 88, p. 653-656

Amasa Holmes, of Plymouth, was appointed as Trustee for the estate of Caleb B. Holmes on 7 Dec. 1846, with Charles T. Holmes and Isaac Holmes, both of Plymouth, as sureties.

 

Vol. 1G, p. 458

Edward Bartlett and Francis J. Goddard, both of Plymouth, were sureties on the bond of Amasa Holmes, Caleb B. Holmes, Charles T. Holmes, and Isaac B. Holmes, executors of the estate of Amasa Holmes, late of Plymouth, yeoman, on 7 Dec. 1846.

 

Vol. 144, p. 54:

Charles T. Holmes of Plymouth, was appointed as Trustee for the estate of Ellen Holmes, of Plymouth, on 11 Jan. 1875, with Caleb B. Holmes and Amasa Holmes, of Plymouth, as sureties.

 

Vol. 144, p. 57:

Ephraim T. Paty, of Plymouth, was appointed as Trustee for the estate of George W. Holmes, of Plymouth, in lieu of Isaac B. Holmes, who has failed to accept the appointment, on 22 May 1876, with Amasa Holmes and Caleb B. Holmes as sureties.

 

No inventory of the estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 88, pp. 559-566, 653-656, from FHL microfilm #0555638, Vol. 1G, p. 458, and Vol. 144, pp. 54, 57.

 

 

Will of Asaph Holmes of Kingston, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1838) *

I Asaph Holmes of Kingston in the County of Plymouth and Commonwealth of Massachusetts Housewright do make and publish this my last Will & Testament in manner following, viz:

I give, devise and bequeath to my wife Sally Curtis Holmes, all the estate, whether, Real, Personal or mixed, whereof I may die seized or possessed, to her and her heirs forever.

I appoint my said wife Sally Curtis Holmes, sole executrix of this my Will.

In witness whereof, I, the said Asaph Holmes, have hereunto set my Hand and Seal this seventh day of September in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and thirty eight.

                                                                                                                                                Asaph Holmes                   (seal)

Signed, sealed, published and declared by the above named Asaph Holmes, to be his last will & Testament in the presence of us, who at his request, in his presence and in the presence of each other have hereunto subscribed our names as witnesses

                                                                                                                                                Lucy L. Johnson

                                                                                                                                                Francis Johnson

                                                                                                                                                Joseph Sampson

 

Presented for probate on the third Monday of May 1845 by Sally C Holmes, the Executor therein named, and proved by Francis Johnson, one of the witnesses.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 87, p. 336-337, from FHL microfilm #0555638.

 

 

Will of Augustus Holmes of Stafford, Tolland County, Connecticut (1899) *

Be it known to all persons, That I, Augustus Holmes of the Town of Stafford in the County of Tolland in the State of Connecticut, being of lawful age, of sound and disposing mind, memory and judgement, and under no improper influence or restraint, do hereby make, publish and declare this to be my last will and testament, hereby revoking all previous wills and codicils by me made. I give, devise and bequeath my estate and property, real and personal, as follows, that is to say:

After the payment of all my just debts and suitable graves stones erected at my grave I give, devise and bequeath all of my estate both real and personal to my wife Laura A. Holmes.

   I appoint Laura A. Holmes of the Town of Stafford, County of Tolland and State of Connecticut executrix of this my last will and testament and without surety on her bond.

   In witness whereof I have signed, sealed, published and declared this instrument as my last will and testament at Somers on the 18th day of December, A. D. 1899.

                                                                                                                                                Augustus Holmes                             (seal)

Signed, sealed, published and declared by the said Augustus Holmes as and for his last will and testament, in presence of us who in his presence and in the presence of each other have hereunto subscribed our names as witnesses, on the 18th day of December 1899

                                                                                                                                                Nathaniel A Patten              }

                                                                                                                                                Charles S. Fuller   } Witnesses

                                                                                                                                                Minnie C. Fuller   }

 

Presented for probate by Laura A. Holmes, his only heir at law, who listed his other heirs as Martha Cushman of Hartford, CT, a sister, Marcia A. Anderson of Rockville, CT, a sister, Eleanor Richmond of Cromwell, CT, a sister, Almira Patten of Stafford Springs, CT, a sister, Mary E. Hayes of Rockville, CT, a sister, Frank Eaton of Bolton, CT, a nephew, Josie Eaton of Stafford Springs, CT, a niece, Alva Eaton of Worcester, MA, a nephew, and Wilbur Holmes of West Stafford, CT, a nephew, and proved by Nathaniel A. Patten and Charles S. Fuller on 10 Mar. 1900 at Somers before Silas H. Perry, Justice of the Peace.

Dwight H. Glazier and Marcius A. Cady were appointed to appraise the estate of Augustus Holmes, late of Stafford, on 22 Mar. 1900. His real estate totaled $1900, and his personal estate totaled $444.00. Laura A. Holmes, the Executrix, gave her oath to the inventory on 14 Apr. 1900.

 

Laura A. Holmes, of Stafford, was granted Letters Testamentary on the Estate of Augustus Holmes, late of Stafford, on 22 Mar. 1900.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Town of Stafford Register of Probate Records Vol. 26, p. 210-213, from FHL microfilm #1319757, and Vol. 27, p. 9.

 

 

Will of Barnabas Holmes of Marion, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1854) *

        In the name of God Amen /  I Barnabas Holmes of Marion in the County of Plymouth, State of Massachusetts, being at this time of sound and disposing mind and memory, do make and publish this my last Will and Testament.

        First.  I do give and bequeath to my beloved wife Sylvia all my household furniture and also the privilege of a residence in one third of the dwelling house on my homestead during the time she may survive me.

        I do also give and bequeath to my daughters Jane Holmes and Mary Luce the wife of Edwin Luce and their heirs to be held equally between them the said Jane and Mary and to be disposed of at their best discretion all the Real Estate now in my possession which descended to me from my late mother Bethiah Holmes and which is particularly described in a deed of Seth Hiller to Joanna & Dolly Hathaway, reserving hereby from said lot to be applied to the payment in part of my just debts & charges all the wood & timber now standing on the North West corner of said land where it adjoins to my homestead farm. The lot on which said wood & timber is reserved is that portion lying West of the Swamp Meadow lot and extends from said Meadow and of the width of the same Westerly to the Will Parlow place so called now owned by Ebenezer Holmes, and said Wood and timber is to be removed in a reasonable time after my decease.

        And I do also provide that my daughter Jane if she remain single and have need thereof shall have the privilege of a home in my homestead dwelling house so long as she shall need the same.

        All the remainder of my estate both real & personal of whatever name or nature of which I shall die seized, I do hereby give and bequeath to my son Barnabas Holmes Jr. and his heirs to his own proper use and disposal, with the proviso, that he the said son Barnabas shall pay all my just debts & funeral charges, and shall also provide or procure suitable and comfortable food clothing shelter &c. for the satisfactory and comfortable support of my wife Sylvia so long as she shall survive me and in order to this end I do hereby provide that no part of the homestead farm proper shall be disposed of or sold so long as she the said Sylvia shall survive me without her consenting to such sale by signing the deed or deeds by which they may be conveyed.

        And I do hereby nominate and appoint my son Barnabas Holmes Jr. the Executor of this my last Will and Testament.

        Signed and sealed at Marion this seventh day of July in the year eighteen hundred and fifty four.

                                                                                                                                                Barnabas Holmes            (seal)

7 July, 1854, Then Barnabas Holmes above named did in our presence sign the foregoing Instrument acknowledge the same to be his last Will and Testament.

Peleg Blankinship               A. J. Hadley         W. N. Ellis

 

Presented for probate on the first Wednesday of May 1855 by Barnabas Holmes Jr., the Executor therein named, and proved by Peleg Blankinship and W. N. Ellis, two of the witnesses.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 97, p. 178-180, from FHL microfilm #0555643.

 

 

Will of Barsheba Holmes of Plymouth, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1762) *

In the Name of God Amen I Barsheba Holmes of Hallifax in the County of Plimouth in New England widdow of William Holmes of Hallifax Deceased being Infirm In Body but of a Sound and disposeing mind and memory and being Sensable of the uncerntaty of my Life and Desirous to Set my house in ordr. before I goe hence Do make & Declare this To be my Last will & Testament And first I Return my Soul To God that gave it when Ever he Shall Plese to Call for it and my Bodey I Recommend To the Earth to be Decently Buried by my Executor here after mentioned. & Touching the Temporel Estate wherewith God hath Blessed me weth in this Life I give Devise and Dispose of in the maner following Viz

Imprs. I Give & Bequeth unto my son Wm. Holmes 1 Cow

Item I Give & bequeth unto my Son Simeon Holmes Eight Shillings To be Paid him by my son William Holmes

Item I Give and Bequeth unto my Son Hezekiah Holmes Eight shillings to be Paid by my Son William Holmes

Item I Give & bequeth unto the Children of my Daughter Lydia Tilden Decd. Eight Shillings To be Paid by my son William Holmes

Item I Give and Bequeth unto my Daughter Hannah Bears the wife of Joseph Bears My Red Cloth Clok & one pound Six Shillings & Eight pence Due to me from her

Item I Give and Bequeth unto my Daughter Zilpha Holmes my feather Beed and bedstead beed Cord and under beed and Suit of Curtins & one Coverlead upon Sd. Beed which is made of all wool one Small Iron Pott one Tramel and one Warming Pan & one half the wevers Loom and half Tackling belonging to Sd Loom & half Tackling belonging To Said Loom and a flot bed & a bed Blankett

Item I Give & bequeth unto my Three Daughter Hannah Bears the wife of Joseph Bears Jane Holmes the wife of Capt. Ephram Holmes & Zilpha Holmes all my Wearing Apparrel and all my other movebals not yet Disposed of in this Will To be Equally Devided betwixt Them three

Lastly I Do appoint Noah Cushing of Hallifax in the County of Plimouth yeoman To be my Sole Executor of this my Last will and Testament In witness whereof I the Said Bathsheaba Holmes have here unto Set my hand and Seal this Twenty fifth Day of Decr. Annoque Domini 1762

Signed. Seald. & Declared by the Said Barsheaba Holmes

To be hir Last will & Testament I Presence                                                                   her

of    Joseph Studson                                                                                            Bathseba  X  Holmes

        Barns Brigs                                                                                                                    mark

        Nathan Hartwell

 

Presented for probate on 4 Apr. 1763 by Noah Cushing of Hallfax, the Executor, and proved by Barnabas Briggs and Nathan Hartwell, two of the witnesses.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 16, p. 436-437, from FHL microfilm #0551543.

 

 

Will of Bartlett Holmes of Plymouth, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1860) *

                Know all men by these Presents, that I, Bartlett Holmes of Plymouth in the County of Plymouth, and State of Massachusetts, being of sound disposing mind and memory, do make and publish this my last Will and Testament.

                First. I give and bequeath to my daughter Eunice F. Whitmore, the Northerly half of my homestead, commencing on the Sandwich road, running Southwesterly through the centre of the dwelling-house and through the center of the lots of land, to the land of Ichabod Morton and Joseph Allen.

                Also two wood lots, the first & second described in a deed from Isaac L. Hedge and others, recorded with the records of deeds for the County of Plymouth, book 210, folio 253 and 254.

                Second, I give and bequeath to my wife Betsey Holmes, the improvement of the other half of the homestead and all other property both real and personal during her natural life.

                Each party my wife Betsey & my daughter Eunice are to occupy the front stair-way, in the dwelling-house, the cellar, the barn and other out-buildings in common. 

                Third. I ordain and appoint my Son-in-law Samuel O. Whitmore as Executor of this my last Will and Testament.

                In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and seal, and publish and declare this to be my last Will and Testament in the presence of the witnesses named below this 29th day of August in the year of Our Lord one thousand eight hundred and sixty.

                                                                                                                                                Bartlett Holmes                (seal)

                Signed, sealed, published and declared by the said Bartlett Holmes, as and for his last Will and Testament in the presence of us, who in his presence and in the presence of each other and at his request have hereunto subscribed our names as witnesses.

                                                                                George Bramhall

                                                                                Bartlett Holmes Jr.

                                                                                Levi P. Morton

 

Samuel O. Whitmore, of Plymouth, was granted letters testamentary on the estate of Bartlett Holmes, late of Plymouth, on 2 July 1861, with Jacob H. Loud and George Bramhall, both of Plymouth as sureties.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 103, p. 240-241, from FHL microfilm #0555646, and Vol. 114, p. 2.

 

 

Will of Benjamin Holmes of Carver, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1832) *

        Be it Remembered that I, Benjamin Holmes of Carver in the County of Plymouth, Yeoman, make and declare this instrument to be my last Will and Testament –

        I give, devise and bequeath to my wife Maria L. T. Holmes the use and improvement of all my estate real and personal, during her natural life – And if the use and improvement of the same be insufficient for her comfortable support, I authorise her to sell the whole or such part thereof as may be necessary for the purpose –

        The household furniture that may remain at the decease of my wife, I give to my three daughters.

        All the rest and residue of my estate, real and personal, that may remain at the decease of my wife, I give, devise and bequeath to my two sons Oliver Holmes and Ichabod I. Holmes, and to my daughters Maria Snow, Hannah Chase and Rebecca Griffin and their heirs forever, to be equally divided between them — Any account I have or may have charged on book, or any note I may hold against them or either of them or the husbands of my said daughters, to be considered as part of his or her share, and to be deducted accordingly.

        I appoint my wife Maria L. T. Holmes Executor of this my last Will and Testament.

        In Testimony Whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this eighth day of September in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and thirty two.

                                                                                                                                                                   his

                                                                                                                                                Benjamin  +  Holmes                         (seal)

                                                                                                                                                                  mark

        Signed, sealed, published and declared by the said Benjamin Holmes to be his last Will and Testament in presence of us, who in his presence and at his request, in presence of each other, have subscribed our names as witnesses.

Jno B Thomas

Mary H Thomas

Hannah S. Thomas

 

Presented for probate on 8 Aug. 1836, and proved by John B. Thomas and Hannah S. Thomas, two of the subscribing witnesses. Letters Testamentary were granted to Maria L. T. Holmes the Executor.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 78, p. 343-344, from FHL microfilm #0555264.

 

 

Will of Beulah S. Holmes of Marshfield, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1877) *

Be it remembered that I Beulah S. Holmes of Marshfield, County of Plymouth & Commonwealth of Massachusetts, being at this time of sound disposing mind and memory (thanks be to the Almighty for the favor,) yet duly considering the uncertainty of my existence in this life, do think proper to make this my last will & testament in manner & form following.

1st. Item, Viz: Firstly it is my mind & will that all my just & legal debts, and funeral expenses be paid, also the expenses arising from the settlement of my estate.

2d Item, I give & bequeath to the Trustees of the Baptist Society of which I am now a member, or to their successors in Office: two hundred dollars, to be kept by said Trustees or their Successors as a fund forever, the interest or income thereof to be annually appropriated for the keeping in repair, and in good condition the Cemetery (or burying place) where my late Husband & Son ar interred situated on the farm now owned & occupied by Ambrose Magoun in said Marshfield.

3d Item. I give & bequeath to my only sister Celia Magoun (wife of the said Ambrose Magoun) the rest & residue of my estate, both real & personal and of whatsoever name or nature, or wherever to be found, to her the said Celia her heirs and assigns forever, and I do grant her the liberty to do with it & dispose of it, as she may think best & proper, excepting & reserving to my & our brother Aaron S. Sherman (should he be living at my decease) a comfortable support & maintenance (or so much as he may need) during his natural life.

Item 4th & last} I nominate and appoint Moses F. Rogers of Lynn sole Executor of this my last Will & Testament.

        In witness whereof I the said Beulah S. Holmes have hereunto set my hand & seal this 5th day of December in the year of our Lord Eighteen hundred & seventy seven.

                                                                                Beulah S. Holmes                                            (seal)

Signed, sealed, published & declared by the said Beulah S. Holmes, to be her last will & Testament, in the presence of us, who in her presence, & in the presence of each other have subscribed our names as witnesses hereunto, the day and date being first above written.

                                                                                Eben Perkins

                                                                                Clara Perkins

                                                                                S. F. Marchant

 

Moses F. Rogers of Lynn, County of Essex, was granted Letters Testamentary on the estate of Beulah S. Holmes, late of Marshfield, on 24 Feb. 1879, with Ambrose Magoun, Celia M. Magoun, both of Marshfield, and Ebenezer T. Fogg, of South Scituate, as sureties.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 143, p. 81-82, from FHL microfilm #0556649, and Vol. 149, p. 46.

 

 

Will of Bradford Holmes of Duxbury, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1858) *

                To whom it may concern,_________ I, Bradford Holmes of Duxbury, in the County of Plymouth, Massachusetts, being of sound and disposing mind and memory, do make and publish this my last Will and Testament as follows, viz:

                First, I hereby constitute and appoint my wife Nancy Holmes, Executrix of this my will, enjoining upon her to cause me to be respectably buried, and a suitable head-stone to be placed at my grave.

                Second. I give and bequeath unto the sd. Nancy Holmes, my wife, all the property I may die seized of, both real and personal, to be disposed of as she chooses.

                In witness whereof, I the sd, Bradford Holmes, have hereunto set my hand and seal, this twenty eighth day of January, A.D, eighteen hundred and fifty eight. 1858.

                Signed, sealed, published and declared by the sd Bradford Holmes, to be his last Will and Testament, in presence of us, the subscribers, who, in his presence & in the presence of each other, have subscribed our names as witnesses.

                Ralph Partridge                                                                                                    Bradford Holmes                             (seal)

                Asa Brewster

                Nathaniel Ellis

 

Presented for probate on the second Monday of April 1858 by Nancy Holmes, the Executrix therein named, and proved by Ralph Partridge, one of the witnesses. Letters Testamentary were granted to Joseph F. Wadsworth, the Executor therein named having declined the trust.

 

                This may certify that whereas my last husband, Bradford Holmes, made a Will, giving me all the Estate which he died possessed of, both Real and Personal, I do hereby waive the provisions in said will and take my thirds of sd. Estate.

                And, as it would be inconvenient for me to administer on sd. estate, I would nominate Joseph F. Wadsworth to that trust.

Duxbury, April 10th 1858                                                                                                  Nancy Holmes

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 100, p. 161-162, from FHL microfilm #0555644.

 

 

Will of Caleb B. Holmes of Plymouth, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1869) *

Be it known that I Caleb B. Holmes, of Plymouth in the County of Plymouth & Commonwealth of Massachusetts, being desirous of directing the disposal of such estate as I may leave at my decease, do make, publish and declare this instrument to be my last Will and Testament in manner and form as follows to wit:

I give devise and bequeath to my wife Lucy B. Holmes the use, income and improvement of all the estate real and personal which I may leave at my decease, for and during the term of her natural life; and for the purpose of affording her a comfortable support for herself & to enable her to educate & bring up my younger children who may be left under her care in case the income of my estate shall be insufficient for that purpose I authorize and empower her to use any portion of the principal which she may deem necessary, with power to sell and convey all or any portion of my real estate and give deeds thereof to the purchaser, without any liability to be held to render any account of her appropriation of the proceeds of the sale of any of my property which she may find it necessary to use for the purposes aforesaid.

At the decease of my said wife, I give, devise and bequeath all and whatever shall then remain of my estate real and personal unexpended in the support of my wife and children to my ten children, Susan E. Paty, Harrison Holmes, Lucy B. Cole, Ella P. Peterson, Caleb B. Holmes Junior, Julia W. Holmes, Annie S. Holmes, George F. Holmes, Alice C. Holmes, & William B. Holmes in equal shares to hold to them, their heirs and assigns forever, and to the children of any deceased child by right of representation.

I nominate and appoint my said wife Lucy B. Holmes to be the Executrix of this Will and I revoke any will by me heretofore made, and I request and direct that my said Executrix shall not be required to furnish any sureties or any bond for the execution of said trust.

In witness whereof I have subscribed my name to this instrument this twenty seventh day of July in the year one thousand eight hundred and sixty nine.

                                                                                                                                                Caleb B. Holmes

Subscribed, published and declared by the within named Caleb B. Holmes as & for his last Will and Testament in presence of us, who at his request in his presence and in the presence of each other have hereunto subscribed our names as witnesses.

                                                                                                                                                Jacob H. Loud

                                                                                                                                                Wm T. Davis

                                                                                                                                                Dan. J. Robbins

 

To the Honorable the Judge of the Probate Court in and for the County of Plymouth.

It being inconvenient for me to discharge the duty of executrix of the last will and testament of Caleb B. Holmes, my husband late of Plymouth in said County of Plymouth deceased I do hereby signify and declare to your Honor my refusal of that trust.

Dated at Plymouth the seventeenth day of July A.D. 1878

                                                                                                                Lucy B. Holmes

 

Ephraim T. Paty, of Plymouth, was appointed as administrator with will annexed of the estate of Caleb B. Holmes, who deceased on 21 June 1878, on 9 Sept. 1878, with George D. Dyer and Peter Holmes, of Plymouth, as sureties. The heirs in the petition were listed on 19 July 1878 as his widow Lucy B. Holmes, Susan Elisabeth Paty, wife of Ephraim T. Paty of Plymouth, Harrison Holmes of Plymouth, Caleb B. Holmes Jr. of Plymouth, Julia Wilson Holmes of Plymouth, George Francis Holmes of Plymouth, William Blanchard Holmes, a minor, of Plymouth, Lucy Bartlett Cole, wife of Jabez B. Cole of So. Boston, Ella Prior Peterson, wife of John Henry Peterson of So. Boston, Anna Slater Blaine, wife of Chas. F. Blaine of Plymouth, and Alice Clayton Holmes, a minor, of Plymouth.

 

To the Honorable the Judge of the Probate Court in and for the County of Plymouth,

Respectfully represents Ephraim T. Paty that it is inconvenient for him any longer to serve as administrator with the will annexed of Caleb B. Holmes late of Plymouth deceased, he therefore respectfully resigns said trust, and asks to have his resignation accepted.

October 2, 1880                                                                                   Ephraim T. Paty

Resignation accepted 11 Oct. 1880.

 

Lucy B. Holmes, of Plymouth, was appointed as administratrix with will annexed of the estate not already administered of Caleb B. Holmes, late of Plymouth, on 11 Oct. 1880, with Thomas B. Bartlett and Edwin Jackson as sureties.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 142, p. 551-552, from FHL microfilm #0556649, Vol. 142, p. 569, Vol. 151, p. 12, Vol. 143, p. 484-485, Vol 151, p. 340, and Probate Docket #10346.

 

 

Will of Cyrus Holmes of Hanover, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1849) *

                Know all men by these presents, that I, Cyrus Holmes of Hanover in the County of Plymouth and Commonwealth of Massachusetts, being sick & weak in body, but of sound mind, memory & understanding and considering the certainty of death, & the uncertainty of the time thereof; and to the end I may be better prepared to leave this world whenever it shall please God to call me hence, do therefore make & declare this my last Will & testament, in manner following—

                And first & principally I commit my soul into the hand of my Creator who gave it & my body to the earth to be interred at the direction of my Executrix herein after named.

                And as to such worldly estate wherewith I am entrusted, I dispose of the same as follows.—

                I give & bequeath to each of my beloved children Cyrus Collamore Holmes, Luther Wright Holmes, Sophia Ann Holmes, & Thomas Bartlett Holmes, the sum of five dollars each –

                I give & bequeath to my beloved wife, Sophia Ann Holmes, all the remainder of my estate, real, personal or mixed, wherever the same may be, a of whatever the same may consist, to her & her heirs forever— hereby requesting, & urgently enjoining on her the said Sophia Ann, the prudent & judicious management of the same for the support of herself & my children before named – I having entrusted it so wholly to her that it might be managed with less expense, & be more conductive to her & their support–

                Lastly, I hereby appoint my said wife, the said Sophia Ann Holmes, sole executrix of this my last Will & testament, hereby empowering her to pay the legacies above made & all legal demands against my estate.

                In witness whereof, I, the said Cyrus Holmes, have to this, my last Will & Testament, set my hand & seal, this eighth day of August in the year of our Lord Eighteen hundred & forty-nine–

                                                                                                                                                Cyrus Holmes                   (seal)

                                Signed Sealed, published & declared by the said Cyrus Holmes as his last Will & Testament, in the presence of us, who at his request & in his presence, have hereunto subscribed our names as witnesses.

                Alexander Wood, Warren Wright+ Robert Eels.+

 

Presented for probate on the last Tuesday of Aug. 1849 by Sophia Ann Holmes, the Executor therein named, and proved by Warren Wright and Robert Eels, two of the witnesses.

 

 

Will of David S. Holmes of Plymouth, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1880) *

Know all men by these presents that I David S. Holmes of Plymouth in the County of Plymouth and Commonwealth of Massachusetts, being of a sound disposing mind and memory do make publish and declare this instrument as and for my last will and testament hereby revoking all former wills be me made.

First. I direct that all my just debts and funeral expenses be paid out of my estate.

Second. I give to my beloved wife Esther Holmes the use income and improvement of all my estate during her natural life.

Third. I give and bequeath to my daughters Fanny S. Cox, Phebe Augusta Swift, Flora A. Bartlett, Lucy Jane Swift and Isabel Finney each the sum of three dollars and to my grand-daughter Amy Swift the sum of three dollars.

Fourth. All the rest residue and remainder of my estate real, personal and mixed I give devise and bequeath to my daughter Georgia A. Holmes to have and to hold to her, her heirs and assigns forever.

Lastly, I constitute and appoint my said daughter Georgie A. Holmes executrix of this my last will and testament and request that she may be exempt from giving a surety or sureties on her bond as such executrix.

        In testimony of all which I hereunto set my hand and seal in the presence of the witnesses hereinafter named this second day of November in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and eighty.

                                                                                                                                                David S. Holmes                              (seal)

Signed, sealed, published and declared by the above named David S. Holmes as and for his last will and testament in our presence, and we in his presence and at his request and in the presence of each other hereto subscribe our names as witnesses.

                                                                                                                                                Daniel E. Damon

                                                                                                                                                Samuel T. Ryder

                                                                                                                                                Ann E. Harlow

 

Georgie A. Holmes, of Plymouth, was granted Letters Testamentary on the estate of David S. Holmes, late of Plymouth, on 14 Feb. 1881.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 143, p. 536, from FHL microfilm #0556649, and Vol. 134, p. 204.

 

 

Will of Deborah Holmes of Plymouth, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1839) *

In the name of God Amen. I Deborah Holmes of Plymouth in the County of Plymouth widow being of sound mind and memory do make, publish and declare this instrument to be my last will and Testament, as follows viz.

        I do hereby constitute and appoint John Perkins of Plymouth to be sole Executor of this my will and after the payment of all my debts and charges I give, devise and bequeath to him the said John Perkins and in case of his refusal to accept this trust to such other person as the Judge of Probate shall appoint for the sole use and benefit of my son Samuel N. Holmes 2d. during the term of his life and if the said Samuel at his decease should leave a wife then to the sole use and benefit of such wife while she remains the widow of said Samuel, all the Estate Real and personal of which I may die seized and possessed.

        And at the expiration of said trust by the death of said Samuel and his said wife or her intermarriage, which ever may first happen I give devise and bequeath, the estate so devised in trust as aforesaid to the children of said Samuel their heirs and assigns forever.

        In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this first day of January in the Year Eighteen hundred and thirty nine

                                                                                                                                                Deborah Holmes                             (seal)

                Signed, sealed and published and delivered by the said Deborah Holmes as her last will and testament in the presence of us who in her presence and in the presence of each other and at her request have hereunto set our names as witnesses

                                                                                                                                                Finney Leach

                                                                                                                                                Thomas B. Sherman

                                                                                                                                                David B. Bartlett

 

Presented for probate on the second Monday of Aug. 1843 by John Perkins, the executor therein named, and proved by Thomas B. Sherman and David B. Bartlett, two of the witnesses. Letters Testamentary were granted to John Perkins.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 85, p. 334-335, from FHL microfilm #0555268.

 

 

Will of Ebenezer Holmes of Plymouth, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1836) *

                In the name of God, Amen: I Ebenezer Holmes of Plymouth in the County of Plymouth, being weak in body, but of sound and perfect mind and memory, Blessed be Almighty God for the same, do make and publish this my last Will and Testament, in manner and form following, that is to say.~

                First. I give and bequeath unto my beloved wife, Sally Holmes, the improvement of all my property (she remaining to be my widow) during her natural life – excepting that I do herein appoint, that no more wood be expended, than ten cords of wood annually for her own fire. The wood to be five cords of pine and five cords of oak.

                I do also give and bequeath to my youngest son Ezra I. H. Holmes two thirds of all my homestead and of my enclosed land – two thirds of the house and barn and all the appurtenances and privileges belonging to the above grant – Also two thirds of a piece of land unenclosed, near the Iron Works, through which I have a road to pass and repass.

                I also give and bequeath to my son Nathaniel Holmes one third, that is, the remaining third of all the bequests which I have above bequeathed to my son Ezra. I do also give and bequeath to my sons Ezra and Nathaniel above named, all my personal estate in the same manner as above named, that is, I do give to my youngest son Ezra two thirds of my tenement and barn, of my Oxen, horse and stock of every kind – And I do give and bequeath to my son Nathaniel one third of all my personal estate, that is, one third of all that of which I have bequeathed to my son Ezra, one third of the house, of the barn, of the Team and of all the appurtenances and privileges belonging to the same. I do also give and bequeath the remainder of my real estate, that is to say, one wood lot containing twelve acres, more or less, to be divided among my seven remaining children, i.e. Mary Tribble, Maria Bearse, Rebecca Hodges, David Holmes, Charlotte, Sally and Jerusha Holmes, to be divided equally among the seven. And Lastly, as to all my estate, real and personal, goods and chattels, of what kind and nature soever, I give and bequeath the same to my beloved wife Sally Holmes, as already herein named, whom I hereby appoint sole Executrix of this my last Will and Testament – and hereby revoking all former Wills by me made.

                In Witness Whereof I hereunto set my hand and seal this fourteenth day of April in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred & thirty six

                                                                                                                                                Ebenezer Holmes                             (seal)

                Signed, sealed, published and declared by the above named Ebenezer Holmes to be his last Will and Testament in the presence of us, who have hereunto subscribed our names as Witnesses in the presence of the testator.

                Benjamin Whitmore

                Lemuel Cobb

                Albert O. Whitmore

 

Presented for probate on the second Monday of Aug. 1837 by Sally Holmes, the Executor therein named, and proved by Benjamin Whitmore and Lemuel Cobb, two of the witnesses.

                To the Judge of Probate for the County of Plymouth.

        The subscriber named as Executor to the last Will and Testament of Ebenezer Holmes late of Plymouth in said County, deceased, on account of her health, feels it to be best for her to relinquish said trust, which she hereby does.—and she would suggest Mr Ellis Whiting as a suitable person to be appointed to settle said estate.

                Plymouth July 1st 1938                                                                                      Sally Holmes

 

        The undersigned heirs at law of Ebenezer Holmes deceased, ascent to the appointment of Mr Ellis Whiting as above.

        Nathaniel Hodges Jr

        David Holmes

        James Tribble

        Calvin Bearce

 

Ellis Whiting, Administrator with Will annexed on the Estate of Ebenezer Holmes, late of Plymouth, yeoman, was granted license to sell his live stock and teams at public or private sale for the interest of all concerned on 14 Aug. 1837.

 

Ellis Whiting, of Plymouth, was granted administration with will annexed of the estate of Ebenezer Holmes, late of Plymouth, yeoman, as requested by Sally Holmes, the person named as Executor, who declined, on 14 Aug. 1837, with David Holmes and Benjamin Whitmore, both of Plymouth, as sureties.

 

The Inventory of the estate of Ebenezer Holmes, late of Plymouth, was appraised by Lemuel Leach, Stephen Doten, and William Burgess, not dated, his real estate valued at $1442.00, and his personal estate totaled $156.00. Ellis Whiting, the Administrator with Will annexed, gave his oath to the inventory on 15 Jan. 1838.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 79, p. 354-356, from FHL microfilm #0555265, Vol. 10A, p. 488, and Vol. 80, p. 7.

 

 

Will of Eleazer Holmes of Plymouth, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1797) *

        In the name of God Amen, I Eleazer Holmes of Plymouth in the county of Plymouth, yeoman, being sensible the certainty of death & uncertain of the time when I shall be summoned thereby, being desirous of disposing of my worldly substance, do make & ordain this my last will & testament in manner following. First & principally, I resign my soul to God who gave it hoping for eternal salvation through the merits of Jesus Christ. I resign my body to the dust, to be decently buried according to the discretion of my Executors hereafter named. My worldly estate, I dispose of in the following manner—viz

        Imprimis. I Give to my Son Eleazer Holmes junr. my dwelling house in Plymouth and the land adjoining it & which is about a quarter of an acre (excepting the improvement of a part of it which give to my Daughter Jane Davee as below) to him & his heirs & assigns forever. Also I Give my said son Eleazer, all the land on the easterly side of the country road, opposite my dwelling house, being about five acres, more or less, to him his heirs and assigns. I also give my said son Eleazer one half of the Schooner               which I own in company with my brother Ichabod Holmes with half of all her tackle & appurtenances, all which lands &c. I give my said son on this condition, that he relinquish any claim or demand he may have on me or my estate for services done &c. and all claim to the Schooner I have given his Sisters as below, and that he pay the legacies below named.

        Item. I Give to my daughter Jane Davee widow, the free use & improvement of the southerly front room in the house I live in and the chamber over it, with free liberty to make such use of the kitchen & cellar belonging to said house as she may need, all to be used by her, free from all rent & expence for any repairs, during her life time

        Item. Also give my said son, all that is due to me on book and on any obligation whatsoever, in consideration whereof, & the lands &c. I have given him as above, I hereby order him to pay to each of my three daughters viz~ Jane Davee, Betsey Doten, the wife of Stephen Doten junr. & Mercy Bartlett the wife of William Bartlett junr. Forty five dollars a piece, to be paid within Six months after my decease, if not then paid, to be on Interest ‘till paid

        Item. All the remainder & residue of my Estate both real & personal, whatsoever, wheresoever it may be found, I Give to my three Daughters above named to them their heirs & assigns forever, to be equally divided amongst them, including one of the three Schooners that is owned by me & my said Brother Ichabod Holmes, that is the one that may fall to me or my heirs in the division that they may make with my said brother Ichabod, to which Vessell & her appurtenances my said son Eleazer to relinquish all title or claim on condition or for the reason that I have given him the lands &c. as abovesaid

        Lastly. I hereby nominate and appoint my said son Eleazer Holmes junr. & Stephen Doten junr. to be Executors to this my last will & testament. In Testimony of all which, I have hereunto set my hand & Seal at Plymouth this Fifth day of May Anno Domini 1797 – N.B. the interlines between the nineteenth & twenty lines, and between ye twenty fourth & twenty fifth lines was made before signing & sealing these presents

Signed, Sealed & delivered & declared

by the said Eleazer Holmes to be his                                                                                               Eleazer Holmes                (seal)

last will & testament in presence of

                Thomas Withrell

                Ezra Burbank

                Ephraim Spooner

 

        I Eleazer Holmes of Plymouth above named, do make the following as a Codicill, to my will above written, that is, the legacy, & all the estate real & personal, that I gave to my daughter Betsey Doten the wife of Mr Stephen Doten junr. by the above will, she being deceased since my making the above will, I hereby give to her children to be equally divided between them, to belong to them & their heirs & assigns forever. In Testimony of all which I have hereunto set my hand & seal at Plymouth February 8th Anno Domini 1798 ~

Signed, Sealed & delivered & declared to                                                                                      the

be a codicil to the last will & testament                                                                         mark of  X  Eleazr                                             (seal)

of the said Eleazer Holmes by him in                                                                                                Holmes

presence of

                Ephraim Spooner

                Nathl Spooner

                Chandler Holmes

 

Presented for probate on 28 Feb. 1798 by Eleazer Holmes & Stephen Doten junr, the Executors therein named, and proved by Thomas Wethrell, Ezra Burbank, Ephraim Spooner Esqr. & Nathaniel Spooner, four of the witnesses.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 36, p. 296-298, from FHL microfilm #0550719. In the second paragraph of the will a space was left for the name of the Schooner, but the name was not filled in.

 

 

Will of Eleazer Holmes of Plymouth, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1804) *

In the Name of God Amen I Eleazer Holmes of Plymouth in the County of Plymouth Gentleman being sick & weak in body but of sound and disposing mind & memory do make & ordain this to be my last will and Testament, first of all I commend my Soul to the everlasting mercy of God who gave it and my body to a decent funeral, humbly praying for a glorious Resurrection through Jesus Christ. In the next place after my just debts & funeral Expences are paid; I give and dispose of my worldly Estate as follows–

first I give and bequeath to my beloved Wife Elizabeth the use and Improvement of the whole of my Estate both real and personal both indoors & out of doors in Plymouth aforesaid and elsewhere for her to use and improve untill my youngest Child Jane Avery is eighteen Years of Age, for the express purpose of keeping my Family together and supporting herself and all my Children, as comfortably as the Income of my Estate will admit, of which I direct her to do with the Income of my said Estate, only excepting as is hereafter excepted out of her Improvement –

2dly. I give and bequeath to my Son Eleazer Holmes junr. one undivided third part of my Estate both real and personal in Plymouth aforesaid and elsewhere, he not to come into the possession & Improvement of it untill my said Daughter Jane Avery is eighteen years of age unless unless he should marry, and if he should marry, I direct & order said third part of my Estate to be put into his immediate possession after his Marriage

3dly. I give and bequeath to my three Daughters Esther Holmes Mary Holmes and Jane Avery Holmes one undivided third part of my Estate both real and personal, both indoors & out of doors in Plymouth aforesaid and elsewhere, which third part of my Estate is to be equally divided between them my said three daughters excepting the sole use and Improvement of said Third part of my Estate to my Wife for the support of herself and my Children to live together till my youngest Child Jane Avery is eighteen years of age, when said third part of my Estate is to be divided between my said three Daughters as aforesaid, unless either of my said Daughters should marry before my said Daughter Jane Avery is eighteen years of age and should either of my said Daughters marry before that times, I direct and order that they or either of them that marry shall have their share of said third assigned them at the time of their Marriage —

4thly I give and bequeath after my said youngest Daughter Jane Avery is eighteen years of age the sole use & Improvement of the other third part of my Estate both real & personal to my beloved wife Elizabeth for her to use and improve for her own benefit for & during the Term of her natural Life, and after her decease said third part of my Estate real and personal to be equally divided between my said four Children

5thly Should any part of my personal Estate be spent or worn out for the benefit or support of my Family before my said Daughter Jane is eighteen years of age, or they marry my wife is not to be answerable to my Children for their part thereof, and after my youngest daughter is eighteen years of age, if my said wife needs the third part of my personal Estate, which will be assigned her to live upon, she may spend it for that purpose —

6thly. and lastly I nominate & appoint my beloved Wife Elizabeth and my Friend Rosseter Cotton Esqr of said Plymouth to be Executors to this my last Will and Testament, in Testimony of which I the said Eleazer Holmes have hereunto set my hand & Seal this 13th. Day of December AD one thousand eight hundred & four. ~

Signed sealed & declared to be his last Will & Testament in presence of us –

        Nathl Goodwin

        Barnabas Otis                                                                                                               Eleazer Holmes                (seal)

        James Collins

        R. Cotton

 

Presented for probate on 28 Dec. 1804 by Elizabeth Holmes and Rosseter Cotton Esqr, the Executors therein named, and proved by Barnabas Otis, James Collins and Rosseter Cotton Esqr., three of the witnesses.

 

Josiah Cotton Esqr., Ichabod Morton junr. Gentleman, and Richard Holmes, Yeoman, all of Plymouth, were appointed to appraise the estate of Eleazer Holmes, late of Plymouth, Gentleman, on 28 Dec. 1804. The inventory was appraised in February & March 1805, his personal inventory totaled $1685.10, and his real estate totaled $5279.99. Elizabeth Holmes and Rosseter Cotton Esqr., the Executor, gave their oath to the inventory on 26 June 1806.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 40, p. 139-146, from FHL microfilm #0550901.

 

 

Will of Elisha Holmes of Plymouth, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1745) *

In the Name of God Amen, Elisha Holmes of Plimouth in the County of Plimouth in the New England Yeoman, Labouring under the Infirmitys of Old Age, but of Sound and Disposing Memory thanks be Given to Almighty God for the Same, but Calling to Mind the Mortality of my Body and Knowing that it is appointed for all men once to Die do Make and ordain this my Last Will and Testament,  Imprimas I will and Bequeath my Soule unto God who Gave it me and My Body to the Dust to be Decently Buried at the Descretion of my Execr. Hereafter named nothing Douting but at the General Resurrection I shall receive the same again by the Mighty power of God, and as Touching Such worldly Estat where with it hath pleased God to bless me in this Life, I dispose of the same in the Following manner

                                I will and Bequeath unto My Loveing wife Susana Holmes the use of all my Estate both Real and Personal in the Township of Plimouth and Elsewhere after My Just Debts and Funeral Charges is first paid out of My Moveable Estate all which Improvement I do Give my well beloved wife, So long as she shall Remain my widow (but if in case shall marry again then my will is that she Shall have all my Meadow in the town of Barnstable and all my Stock Cattle of all Sorts in Plimouth or Elsewher and also thirty pounds in other Moveable Estate to be at her Disposal and her heirs and assigns forever—

My will is that all the Resedue of My Estate both Real and personal Lying within the Township of Plimouth and Else where not Given away in this present will shall be Divided to and amongst My Eight Children now Living and the Children of my son Elnathan Holmes Decd. in the Following maner Vizt. one ninth part thereof to My son Elisha Holmes, one ninth part to my son Joseph Holmes, one ninth part to My son Jabez Holmes, one ninth part to the Children of my son Elnathan Holmes, Decd. one  ninth part to my son John Holmes one ninth part to my Daughter Marcy the wife of Edward Stevens, one ninth part to my Daughter Elizabeth the wife of Elkanah Morton, one ninth part to My Daughter Sarah Blackmer, (the wife of John Blackmer) and one ninth part to my Daughter Rebecca (the wife of Andrew Croswell, all which Estate as abovesaid I do Give to them and Each of there Heirs and assigns forever—

                (Lastly) I nominate and appoint my Loveing Friend Nathl. Bartlett the sole Execr. of this My Last Will & Testamt. Hereby Revokeing all other and former Wills either written or Verble, by me Heretofore Made or Done or orderd to be Done, Hereby Ratifying this my last and Testamt. to Remain Firm and Inviolable  In Witness Whereof I the above named Elisha Holmes have Hereun to set my hand & Seal 21st day of March Anno. Domi. 1745.                                                                                 his

Josiah Morton                                                                                                                                      Elisha  +  Holmes                (seal)

Josiah Morton Jur.                                                                                                                                        mark

Thomas Clarke

 

Presented for probate on 3 Dec. 1753 by the Execr. who renounces the Executorship, and proved by Josiah Morton and Josiah Morton Jur., the sd Thos. Clarke since decd. Elisha Holmes and John Blackmer, Yeomen, were appointed as Administrators Cum Testamento Annexo on the Estate of Elisha Holmes, late of Plimouth, Yeoman Decd., with John Bartlett, Inholder, and Perez Tillson, Marcht., all of Plimouth, as sureties, on 6 Dec. 1753.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Elisha Holmes late of Plimo., was appraised by Joseph Bartlett, Benjamin Rider, and Joseph Warren on 1 Jan. 1754, and totaled £518.2.0, including his homestead buildings, orchard and land valued at £418.13.4, a piece of land at Warrens Lot valued at £36.5.4, and his salt meadow at Sandy Neck in Barnstable valued at £6.13.4. Elisha Holmes and John Blackmer, the Administrators, gave their oath to the inventory on 5 Jan. 1754.

 

Leut. Joseph Bartlett, Benjamin Rider, Joseph Warren, and Nathaniel Bartlett, all of Plymouth, and John Wadsworth, of Duxbury, were appointed to divide the real estate of Elisha Holmes, late of Plymouth, into nine equal parts, and assign one ninth part each to Elisha Holmes, the eldest son, to Joseph Holmes, to Jabez Holmes, to the children of Elnathan Holmes, deceased, to the legal representatives of John Holmes, deceased, to Marey the wife of Edward Stephens, to Elizabeth the wife of Elkanah Morton, to Susan Blackmer the wife of John Blackmer, and to Rebecca the wife of Rev. Mr. Andrew Croswell, on 18 [sic] Mar. 1754. The division was dated 13 [sic] Mar. 1754, sworn to on 30 Mar. 1754, and was approved by the court on 6 Mar. [sic] 1754.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 13, pp. 184-186, 243-247, from FHL microfilm #0551540.

 

 

Will of Elisha Holmes of Plymouth, Plymouth County, Massachusetts Bay (1779) *

In The name of God Amen

                I, Elisha Holmes of Plymouth in the county of Plymouth in New England yeoman, being of a sound and disposing mind, but considering the uncertainty of Life, do think proper to settle my worldly affairs, & to make my Last will and testament in manner Following vizt~

First of all, I recommend my soul to the everlasting mercy of God through Christ, and my body to a decent burial, humbly hoping for a Glorious resurrection thro’ the merits of my redeemer~and as to my worldly Estate, I dispose thereof as Follows

1st—I Give & bequeath to my beloved wife Mary all my moveable Estate after my Funeral charges & Other Just debts are paid out of the same, also the improvement of one half of my Real Estate during her widowhood

2d—I Give to my three surviving sons-vizr Elisha, Bartlett & Ellis all my Real Estate, to be equally divided between them, they paying to my three surviving daughters viz. Sarah, Betty & Mary Ten pounds L.m. to each of them also to the heirs of my deceased son Samuell Ten pounds & to the heirs of my decd son Nathaniel Ten pounds. Likewise to the heirs of my deceased daughter Susannah Ten pounds & to the heirs of my deceased daughter Jerusha Ten pounds, and it is my will that the abovesaid Legacies as above mentioned be paid within the space of three months after my decease

3d—It is my will that my three surviving sons above mentioned should be the sole Executors of this my Last will & Testament, Likewise it is my will that my three sons above mentioned should have my wearing apparell-in Testimony & confirmation of which I the said Elisha Holmes do hereunto set my hand & seal this nineteenth day of May A D One thousand seven hundred & seventy nine

Signed Sealed & declared to be his Last                                                                         Elisha Holmes                  (seal)

will & testament in presence of~~

                Ivory Hovey

                John Blackmer

                Sarah Blackmer

 

Probated on 7 July 1779, presented by Elisha Holmes, Bartlett Holmes & Ellis Holmes, the Executors therein named, and proved by Ivory Hovey and John Blackmer, two of the witnesses.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 25, p. 314-315, from FHL microfilm #0550713.

 

 

Will and Codicil of Eliza K. Holmes of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1875) *

Know all men by these presents that I Eliza K. Holmes widow of the late George W. Holmes of Bridgewater, in the County of Plymouth, and State of Massachusetts being of sound and disposing mind and memory, do make and publish this my last will and testament.

First, I hereby constitute and appoint Col. Isaac F. Kingsbury of Chestnut Hill, Newton, Massachusetts, to be sole executor of this my last Will and Testament, directing him my said Executor to pay all my just debts and funeral charges.

Second, I give and bequeath to the three children of my last husband viz: Laura D. Kingsbury of Chestnut Hill, and Charles Henry Holmes and Ellen M. Holmes of Boston, the house, outbuildings and land appertaining thereto, for which reference is here made to a deed given me by Hosea Kingman Administrator on the estate of my last husband dated October 24th 1874, to have and to hold to them and their heirs and assigns forever.

Third. I also give and bequeath to the three children aforesaid, all the furniture, bedding &c which was in the house when I came to reside in it, also so much of my wearing apparel as they may desire to have.

Fourth, I also give and devise to the three children above mentioned a certain parcel of wood and pasture land being opposite the house described and specified in the deed above mentioned subject to a mortgage to my parents Nathan Robbins & wife.

Fifth. I have also invested in the Provident Institution for Savings, Boston five hundred eighty four dollars thirty six cents earned by me before my marriage, which sum with my accumulations thereon, I desire to have expended for the support of my parents, during the life of each of them should they survive me, reserving from the above money unless absolutely needed for the comfort of my parents, fifty dollars to be paid to my brother Nathan K. Robbins of the city of New York, after the decease of my parents; the residue if any of this fund, to be equally divided among the children of my late husband.

Sixth. The furniture of the parlor including the carpet which was purchased by me before my marriage I desire should be given to the daughter Ellen M. Holmes of Boston. I also give to her “Mack’s Domestic Sewing Machine.

Seventh. I give to my brother Nathan K. Robbins one dozen silver teaspoons, marked M. K. to be given to his daughter Flora Ella La Forge on the death of her father. I also give to her one dozen silver tea knives and forks.

Eighth. I give and bequeath to my cousin Mrs Lucy Angelina Mudge wife of Alfred Mudge now of Boston Massachusetts, my old mahogany table with round top.

Ninth. The residue of all my furniture, housekeeping articles and wearing apparel I give and bequeath to Mrs Mary Blanchard wife of Joseph K. Blanchard of Boston, Massachusetts, Mrs Emily C. Knight, wife of Samuel W. Knight of Lawrence Massachusetts, Mrs James G. Woodward of Kellogg, Iowa, and Mrs Lucy C. Hutchings of Westford Massachusetts, who are the daughters of my mother; the same to be equally divided between them,

        In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this twenty second day of June A D 1875

                                                                                                                                Eliza K. Holmes                                (seal)

Signed sealed, published and declared as her last will by the said Eliza K. Holmes, in the presence of us, who in her presence, and in the presence of each other and at her request, have hereto subscribed our names as witnesses.

                                                                Thomas Russell

                                                                Francis M. Bennett

                                                                Albe C. Clarke

 

                Boston Jan. 22. 1880.

 Whereas in my only Will of June A D. 1875 I provided for my parents Nathan Robbins and wife, also my step daughter Ellen M. Holmes of Boston since died the money left for them in said will of June A D. 1875 I wish paid to Albert G. Boyden Dr Lewis Hopkins of Bridgewater Mass. Also Mrs Hannah Mitchell of Halifax Mass. holding notes of borrowed money against my husband at the time of his death the estate settled up 75 cts on a dollar I wish the balance made up to them in full.

 I wish Laura D Holmes Kingsbury of Chestnut Hill, Newton Mass. to have the remainder towards educating her children, my wearing apparel I wish sent to the Home Missionary. I wish cousin Mary S. Kinsman to have the Mack Domestic Sewing Machine.

If Col. I. F. Kingsbury is not living at the time of my death I desire Henry R. Reynolds to be my sole Executor of my will.

Witnesses

                H. R. S. Rowe                                                                                      Eliza K. Holmes

                Martha M. Rowe

                Alice M. Bradley

 

Isaac F. Kingsbury of Newton, County of Middlesex, was granted Letters Testamentary on the estate of Eliza K. Holmes, late of Bridgewater, on 27 Sept. 1880, with Isaac Kingsbury and Benjamin W. Kingsbury, both of Norton, as sureties.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 143, p. 460-462, from FHL microfilm #0556649, and Vol. 149, p. 223.

 

 

Will of Ellis Holmes of Halifax, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1825) *

In the name of God Amen. I Ellis Holmes of Halifax in the County of Plymouth and Commonwealth of Massachusetts yeoman being weak in body but of sound mind and memory being desirous to set my house in order before I die do make, ordain and publish this my last will and testament and dispose of my worldly substance which God has bless in the following manner (viz) Impremise. I give and bequeath to my wife Lucy Holmes the improvement of one third of all my real and personal estate during her natural life and the improvement of the remaining two thirds untill my son Ellis C. Holmes shall become twenty one years of age if she remains my widow if not she is to have the improvement of her thirds only.

        Item. I give and bequeath to my son Ellis C. Holmes Four twentieths of the Saw Mill standing near my house on the condition that he shall live in and labour as he is able for the benifit of my family untill he is twenty one years of age in the same manner as if he was under me on the fulfillment of which condition I give said four twentieths of the sd Saw Mill to him and his heirs and assigns forever, but if he does not fulfill said condition the said four twentieths of said Saw Mill shall be divided amongst my Children as I shall and hereafter order the remainder of my property to be divided amongst them, and for the permanent settlement of my Estate.

        I give and bequeath to my three sons (viz) Ellis C. Holmes and Martin Holmes and winslow Holmes six tenths of all my Real and Personal Estate (excepting the said four twentieths of the sd Saw Mill I have given to my said son Ellis C. Holmes if he fulfill the above said condition and including if he does not) to be equally divided betwixt them.

        I give and bequeath to my four Daughters (viz) Martha C. Holmes, Lucy Holmes, Sally Holmes and Mary Holmes four tenths of all my Real Estate and Personal Estate (excepting the said four twentieths of the Saw Mill I have given to my son Ellis C. Holmes if he does fulfill the condition for which it is given and including said four twentieths of said Saw Mill if he does not) to be equally divided betwixt them and what I give to my Children I give to them and their heirs and assigns forever, reserving in all and each share severally the right or tights of improvement which I have given to my wife Lucy Holmes  And my will further is that each of my heirs shall have a right and shares in my Dwelling house in the same manner and proportion that I have given them my Estate excepting that my son Ellis shall have no then two tenths thereof. And my will further is that when my son Ellis C. Holmes shall arrive to the age of twenty one years my Estate shall be divided and the six tenths that I have given to my three sons Ellis C. Holmes, Martin Holmes and winslow Holmes of my Estate, shall be divided into three equal and seperate share and the four tenths of my sd Estate that I have given to my four Daughters (viz) Martha C. Holmes, Lucy Holmes, Sally Holmes and Mary Holmes shall be divided into four equal and seperate shares remembering to sett off to my wife Lucy Holmes her thirds before the division of said shares above directed.

And my will further, is that whenever the division directed is made my Daughter Martha C. Holmes shall come into the possession of her share and that each and every of my other Children (or heirs) shall come into possession of their shares as they shall arrive at the age of twenty one years old, and that my wife Lucy Holmes shall still have and hold the improvement of the remaining shares untill they and each of my remaining heirs arrive to the age of twenty one years and give up the improvement to each as they arrive at that age if she remains my widow but not to have the improvement of the shares if she does not so remain.

And lastly, I do constitute and ordain Capt. Timothy Wood of Hallifax aforesaid sole Executor of this my last will and testament. And in testamony of this my aforesaid, I the said Ellis Holmes have hereunto set my hand and seal day and date afore written

Signed, Sealed, Published, Pronounced,

and Declared by the sd Ellis Holmes as                                                                           Ellis Holmes                      (seal)

and for his last will & testament in presence

of us who at his request and in his presence

hereunto set our names as witnesses to the same.

Nathaniel Morton

John Fuller

Morrill Robinson

 

Probated on 1 Mar. 1825, and proved by John Fuller, one of the witnesses.

Timothy Wood, the Executor named in the will, refused on 11 Feb. 1825, it being too inconvenient for him.

 

Timothy Wood, Gent., Obadiah Lyon, Esquire, & Isaac Thompson, yeoman, all of Halifax, were appointed to appraise the estate of Ellis Holmes, late of Halifax, yeoman, on 1 Mar. 1825. The Inventory was dated 11 Mar. 1825, and totaled $2128.34, his real estate valued at $1598.00, including his homestead farm valued at $1050, and 9 twentieth parts of the Saw Mill valued at $360. Lucy Holmes and Timothy Wood Jr., the appointed administrators, gave their oath to the inventory on 5 Apr. 1825, and were given a license to sell a part of the personal estate at public auction or private sale. They notified the court that the estate was insufficient to pay the just debts.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 59, p. 131-134, from FHL microfilm #0550910. The will was not dated.

 

 

Will of Ellis Holmes of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1825) *

In the name of God, Amen. I Ellis Holmes of Bridgewater in the County of Plymouth & Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Yeoman, being of sound and disposing mind and memory, considering the uncertainty of this life, & Knowing that it is appointed for all men once to die do this fifth day of August in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and twenty five make & ordain this my last Will & testament that is to say First of all I give & recommend my soul to God that gave it & my body to the dust to be buried in decent christian burial nothing doubting but at the resurrection I shall receive the same again by the mighty power of God. And as to the worldly estate with which God has blessed me in this life having already given to my Son Howland Holmes all my my [sic] real & personal estate by deed on conditions therein named & as he is to pay to my heirs the sum of three hundred & nineteen dollars after my decease besides what he has already paid to my son Samuel & has given Security for the payment of the Same dated March 20, 1820, now therefore I dispose of the said sum of three hundred and nineteen dollars which remains due on said security in the following manner, viz.

1.  I give and bequeath to my wife Abigail One hundred dollars thereof, & to her heirs & assigns forever.

2.  I give & bequeath to the rightful heirs of my Son Ellis Holmes, deceased, viz to his children, one hundred & ninety one dollars thereof & to their heirs & assigns forever.

3.  I give & bequeath to my Son Howland Holmes one dollar thereof.

4.  I give & bequeath to my Son Samuel Holmes, besides what I have already given him, one dollar thereof.

5.  I give and bequeath to my daughter Jerusha Cornish twenty one dollars thereof & to her heirs & assigns forever.

5.[sic]  I give and bequeath to my daughter Mary Bassett one dollar thereof.

7.  I give and bequeath to my grand-daughter Ann Brett, child of my daughter Betsey Brett, deceased, one dollar thereof.

8.  I give and bequeath to my three grand-daughters, children of my daughter Susanna Hall—viz. Malinda Hall, Ann Mari Hall & Mary Hall, three dollars thereof, one dollar to each.

        The payment of the abovesaid sums & legacies of money to be well & truly made by my said Son Howland Holmes by & under the direction of the Executor of this my last will & testament.

        And lastly I do appoint Timothy Wood Jr. of Halifax in said County of Plymouth Sole Executor of this my last Will & testament hereby making void all other wills by me made.

        In witness whereof I the Said Ellis Holmes have hereunto set my hand & seal day & date above written.

        Signed, Sealed, published and

declared by the above Said Ellis

Holmes to be his last Will and                                                                                         Ellis Holmes                      (seal)

Testament in presence of us the

subscribers as witnesses in the pres-

sence of the testator

                Isaiah Ripley 2d

                Noah Bosworth

                Frances Bosworth

 

Probated on 3 Jan. 1826, and proved by Isaiah Ripley Jr., one of the witnesses.

 

Ebenr Wood, Gent., Timothy Wood, Yeoman, & Saml. S. Sturtevant, Gent., all of Halifax, were appointed to appraise all the Estate of Ellis Holmes, late of Bridgewater, on 3 Jan. 1826.

Finding no property whereof to make an Inventory, I return this Warrant not executed.

August 1, 1826                                                                                                                    Timothy Wood Junr.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 60, pp. 82-84,506, from FHL microfilm #0550911.

 

 

Will of Ellis Holmes of East Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1872) *

Know all men by these presents, that I Ellis Holmes of East Bridgewater in the County of Plymouth and Commonwealth of Massachusetts, being in feeble health, far advanced in years, and of sound and disposing mind and memory, do make and publish this my last will and testament for the final disposition of my estate.

First, I give to my grand-daughter Louisa B. Howard wife of William A. Howard for her sole and separate use five hundred dollars as her full share of my property.

Second. I give to Relief Hersey a member of my family, if living at my decease, three hundred dollars, to be paid her by my Executor out of any part of my estate.

Third. After the payment of my debts and the above named legacies, I give to my children, Ellis W. Holmes, Andrew B. Holmes, Louisa B. Sampson, Mary Rider wife of Samuel L. Rider, and Elizabeth Holmes for their separate use, all the rest and residue of my estate, Real and Personal, of whatever description to be divided in equal shares between them; and in case either of said children shall die without issue before my own decease, such estate to be divided in equal shares among the survivors or their legal representatives.

Fourth, I hereby constitute my son Ellis W. Holmes sole Executor of this will, directing him to pay my just debts and funeral charges out of any portion of my estate, remaining at my decease.

In testimony whereof I hereunto set my hand and seal, and publish and declare this to be my last Will and Testament in presence of the witnesses hereinafter named, this twenty second day of February in the year eighteen hundred and seventy two.

                                                                                                                                                Ellis Holmes                      (seal)

Signed, sealed, published, and declared by the said Ellis Holmes as and for his last will and testament in presence of us, who in his presence, and in presence of each other have hereunto subscribed our names as witnesses.                                                                                                 Heman Keith

                                                                                                                                                Saml. A. Orr

                                                                                                                                                Moses Bates

 

Ellis W. Holmes, of East Bridgewater, was granted Letters Testamentary on the estate of Ellis Holmes, late of East Bridgewater, on 13 May 1872, with Charles W. Harris and Moses Bates, of Bridgewater, as sureties.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 140, p. 364, from FHL microfilm #0556648, and Vol. 133, p. 47.

 

 

Will of Ephraim Holmes of Kingston, County of Plymouth, Massachusetts Bay (1778) *

In the Name of God amen—upon the second day of July in the year of our Lord-one thousand seven hundred and Seventy Eight I Ephraim Holmes of Kingston in the county of Plymouth in the Province of the Massachusetts Bay in New England, yeoman, upon good and serious considerations, and being under some decays of nature, but of perfect mind and memory, thanks be Given unto God for the same, and therefore calling unto mind the mortality of my body and knowing that it is appointed for all men once to die, do make and ordain this to be my Last will and testament that is to say principally and first of all, I do Give and Recommend my Soul into the hands of God that Gave it any my body I Recommend to the Earth to be buried in decent and Christian manner at the discretion of my Executor herein after named, nothing doubting but at the Great and General Resurrection I shall Recieve the same again by the almighty power of God, and as touching such worldly Goods and temporal Estate, wherewith God has been pleased to bless me in this Life with, I Give, demise and dispose of the same in the following manner and form

Imprimis—my will is that all my Just debts and funeral charges be defrayed and paid out of my personal Estate

Item—I Do Give and bequeath unto my Eldest Son Ephraim Holmes all my right and title and Interest that I have in the 125th Lot in Marshfield upper Lands, only excepting the Cedar Swamp, that is included within the said 125th Lot, that is my part of the Cedar swamp, I do Give and bequeath unto my son Levi Holmes, and this abovesaid 125th Lot that is Given as abovesaid, I do Give and bequeath to my two said Sons Ephraim Holmes and Levi Holmes their heirs and assigns forever

Item—I Do Give and bequeath unto my two Sons Ephraim Holmes and Levi Holmes and my daughter Sarah Carver the wife of David Carver all the Residue and Remainder of all my Real and and Personal Estate whatsoever it is and wheresoever it may be found, equally alike to be divided amongst them all according to the appraisement that shall be made of it, and further my will is that my daughter Sarah Carver has had of me some moveable Goods in my Life time, that I Gave her, and my will is that what I Gave her in my Life time shall be appraised, and that is to be as a part of her Share of her Legacy in my Estate as abovesaid, according to the appraisement–and whereas I have heretofore Given unto my two said Sons Ephraim Holmes and Levi Holmes each of them a deed of a Certain piece of Land being two pieces in the whole as their deeds will Sett forth, and I Likewise have Given unto my said daughter Sarah Carver the Sum of twenty pounds in moveable Goods, and my will is that my sd. daughter Sarah is to have all the Residue and Remainder of my moveable Goods or Personal Estate after my Just debts and funeral Charges be paid out of it according to the appraisement, She must have her Share in my Other out Lands so as to make her Share one third part out of my Estate equal to each of my said Sons—and my will is that my Son Ephraim Holmes and my daughter Sarah Carver shall have my dwelling house equally between them – and my will is that my son Levi shall have my Corn house and my will is that my daughter shall have a convenient way to my house and conveniency about my house, and my will is that all these abovesaid Legacies shall be appraised and my said daughter is to have one whole share or third part of my Estate equal to one of my Sons, and my will is that my son Ephraim Holmes shall have half my Barn and my Son Levi half my Barn, and my will is that all and each of these Legacies above Given is to Go and to be for the use of each of the heirs as abovesaid to each of them their heirs and assigns forever

Item—I Do hereby Constitute and appoint my trusty friend Peter West of Kingston aforesaid to be the Sole Executor of this my Last will and testament and I do hereby utterly disallow Revoke and disannull all and every other and former wills testaments Legacies and bequests and Executors by me in any ways before named, willed and bequested, Ratifying and confirming this and no other to be my Last will and testament—In witness whereof I the said Ephraim Holmes have hereunto Set to my hand and Seal the day and year above written

Signed Sealed Published pronounced

and declared by the said Ephraim Holmes                                                                     Ephraim Holmes                              (seal)

to be his Last will and testament in

presence of us the Subscribers

                Elisha Brewster

                Sarah Daws

                John Wadsworth

 

Presented for probate on 4 Dec. 1780 by Peter West, the Executor therein named, and proved by Elisha Brewster and John Wadsworth, two of the witnesses.

 

Jedediah Holmes, yeoman, Noah Symmons, Gentm. and Elijah Chandler, yeoman, all of Kingston, were appointed to appraise the estate of Ephraim Holmes, late of Kingston, on 4 Dec. 1780. The inventory was dated 27 Dec. 1790, and totaled £692.6.~, including his dwelling house and homestead valued at £249.15, and several other parcels of land. Peter West, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 1 Jan. 1781.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 28, p. 25-28, from FHL microfilm #0550715.

 

 

Will of Ephraim Bartlett Holmes of Plymouth, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1859) *

In the name of God Amen. I Ephraim Bartlett Holmes of Plymouth in the County of Plymouth and State of Massachusetts being of sound disposing mind and memory do this fourth day of June A.D. eighteen hundred and fifty nine make publish and declare this instrument as and for my last Will and Testament.

First. After the payment of all my just debts and incidental charges, I give devise and bequeath to my beloved wife Lydia Sampson Holmes so long as she shall remain my widow all the income of my whole estate, Real, Personal or mixed that I now possess or may hereafter come into my possession, to and for her sole use and benefit.

Second. At the decease of my wife Lydia Sampson Holmes, I give devise and bequeath to my daughter Lydia Bartlett Holmes all my estate Real, Personal or mixed that I now possess or may hereafter possess or to which I may be the lawful heir and thereby entitled to her own sole use and benefit to her, her heirs and assigns forever.

Provided nevertheless that should my said daughter decease leaving no issue, then all my property Real Personal or mixed that I now possess or may be hereafter entitled to, I give, devise and bequeath to the lawful heirs of my said wife Lydia Sampson Holmes to them their heirs and assigns forever.

Third. In case of the decease of my daughter before the decease of my said wife she leaving no issue, then it is my will that at the decease of my said wife all my estate Real, Personal or mixed or to which I may be hereafter entitled shall go to the heirs of my said wife, to them their heirs and assigns forever.

Fourth. The meaning and intent of this my last will and testament is, that in no case whatsoever and under no circumstances that may hereafter occur, shall my estate or any portion thereof that I now possess or may hereafter possess, or after my decease my heirs through me shall be legally entitled to descend to my family heirs (as in case of the decease of myself, my wife, and daughter leaving no issue) but shall descend to the heirs of my wife Lydia Sampson Holmes to them their heirs and assigns forever.

Fifth. I hereby constitute my beloved wife sole executrix of this my last will and testament.

        In testimony whereof I the said Ephraim Bartlett Holmes have hereunto set my hand and seal the day and date above written.

                                                                                                                                Ephraim B. Holmes                        (seal)

Signed sealed published and declared by the said Ephraim Bartlett Holmes as and for his last will and testament in the presence of us, who at his request and in his presence and in the presence of each other have hereunto subscribed our names as witnesses.

                                                                Samuel H. Doten

                                                                Charles Whitten

                                                                Josiah W. Churchill

 

Lydia S. Holmes of Plymouth, was granted Letters Testamentary on the estate of Ephraim B. Holmes, late of Plymouth, on 14 Oct. 1878, with Lydia B. Holmes and Wm. R. Drew, of Plymouth, as sureties.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 142, p. 555-557, from FHL microfilm #0556649, and Vol. 149, p. 6.

 

 

Will of Francis Holmes of Plympton, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1810) *

                In the Name of God amen I Francis Holmes being of a sound disposing Mind & Memory do constitute this my last will & Testament, & desire it may be received by all as such. First I give my Soul to God my Maker & my Body to the Earth to be decently buried at the discretion of my Executor hereafter named, & as to my worldly Estate my Will is that all my just debts & funeral Charges be truly paid by my Executor hereafter named —

                1st. I give unto wife Lydia all my personal Estate for her Improvement so long as she remains my widow, with the Improvement of the whole of my Real Estate excluding my farming Tools & one Yoke of Oxen & four Feather Beds with the Furniture to each Bed —

                2dly. I give unto my Son Francis all my Real Estate with the Buildings & appurtenances thereunto belonging that lie to the eastward of the Highway that leads from Plympton unto Halifax also all my Bog meadow that lies on Colchester Brook also a Yoke of Oxen with all my farming Tools also a Feather Bed & Furniture —

                3dly. I give unto my Son Peleg my Cedar Swamp in Halifax in Turkey Swamp so called also five acres of Land that I bought of Dependence Sturtevant adjoining Holmes Sears’ Land —

                4thly. I give unto my Son Eleazer four acres of Land adjoining that five acres that I gave unto my Son Peleg —

                5thly. I give unto my Son Sampson all my Land that lies to westward of the Road that leads to Halifax, that I have not above disposed of also one feather Bed with Furniture —

                6thly. I give unto two my Daughters Sarah & Ruth C. one Feather Bed & Furniture unto each one of them, my will is that these two daughters shall have the privilege of living in the House with the privilege of a Fire, so long as they live a single Life, my will is that my two Daughters have all the Household Goods that are at my wife’s decease.—

I do appoint & constitute my wife Lydia sole Executor on this my last will & Testament—

In Testimony whereof I do hereunto set my hand & Seal —

Dated Plympton November 26th. 1810 ~

                Isaac Churchill                                                                                                     Francis Holmes                                (seal)

                Seth Churchill

                Isaac Churchill junr.

 

Presented for probate on 7 Apr. 1812 by Lydia Holmes, the Executrix therein named, and proved by Isaac Churchill, Seth Churchill and Isaac Churchill junr., all the witnesses.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 44, p. 155-156, from FHL microfilm #0550903.

 

 

Will of Howland Holmes of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1853) *

  In the name of God Amen. I Howland Holmes of Bridgewater in the County of Plymouth and State of Massachusetts, considering the uncertainty of life, and being of sound and perfect mind and memory, do make and publish this my last Will and Testament, as follows.

Second. I give and bequeath to my      daughters Lydia Worcester, Huldah Hastings, Susannah Copeland, Wealthy Morse, Hannah O. Hartwell and Minerva A. Keith, and to my sons Howland Holmes, John Holmes & Calvin Holmes, ten dollars each ~ the above legacies to be paid in one year from my decease.

First. I give and bequeath to my Granddaughters Margaret Andrews and Rebecca Andrews Five dollars each.

Third. I give and bequeath to my wife Hannah Holmes, the residue of my Estate ~ Beds, Bedding, Household Furniture & wearing apparel.

Fourth. I hereby appoint my wife Hannah Holmes my sole Executrix of this my last Will and Testament.

In Witness whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and seal, the fifth day of May, in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and fifty three.

                                                                                                                                                Howland Holmes                             (seal)

  Signed, sealed, published and declared by the above~ named Howland Holmes to be his last Will and Testament, in the presence of us, who at his request and in his presence have hereunto subscribed our names as witnesses to the same.

                Thos. Cushman

                John L. Washburn

                Noah Cushman

 

Presented for probate on the first Tuesday of April 1854 by Hannah Holmes, the Executrix therein named, and proved by Thomas Cushman and Noah Cushman, two of the witnesses.

 

 

Will of Ichabod Holmes of Plymouth, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1813) *

                In the name of God amen I Ichabod Holmes of Plymouth in the County of Plymouth Yeoman, being sensible of the certainty of Death & uncertain of the time of its approach to me, & being desirous of disposing or distributing of my Estate among my Children before my decease do make this my last will and Testament in manner following viz. —

                First & principally I resign my Soul to God who gave it trusting in the Merits of his Son Jesus Christ for pardon & eternal Salvation, & my Body to the Dust to be decently buried at the Discretion of my Executors hereafter named; After my just Debts & funeral charges are paid, I give my Estate to my eight children in manner following– viz —

                I give to my three Sons, Ellis, Chandler, & Samuel part of the Land that I own on the easterly side of the country Road, near my Dwelling house in said Plymouth to the northward of the Land of Benjamin Barnes, untill it comes to the Lane leading from the country road down into the Sea, reserving the Land leading through my Land, as it is now fenced, & also reserving two House Lots, to contain about a quarter of an acre each, to the southward of my Son Ellis’ dwelling house, they to join on the Country Road and to extend easterly, having a proper Front, to be sold by my Executors –

                I give to my Daughter Esther Shaw the Wife of Ichabod Shaw junr. two Lots of Woodland, one Lot containing about six Acres is about a Mile from my House adjoining to the Land of Barnabas Hedge junr. Esqr. The other Lot containing about five acres, which I bought of Lemuel Morton, is about a mile & an half from my House ~ These Lands I give to my said Daughter by reason that I did not give her any household Goods when she was married as I did to all my other Daughters & also for her peculiar attention to her mother, when she was sick & for her attendance on me since.—

                I give to my three Sons above named Ellis, Chandler & Samuel to whom I gave my Fish Yard, the fish house standing thereon, & all my Trucks and other articles used in drawing up & curing Fish said Samuel’s Share in the Land abovesaid & also in the Trucks &c above mentioned that I have used in my Fishyard and also all the Interest he may be entitled to by this Will I hereby direct shall be subjected to the payment of the Sum of three hundred Dollars thereon which I hired of Ichabod Shaw Junr. (as appears by my Note of hand) & paid to or for said Samuel, he to pay the Interest thereof from that time untill it is paid

        It is always to be understood, that I give to my said Son Samuel the use & Improvement only of all the property given him by this Will, during his Natural Life, to be under the Care & direction of my Executors hereafter named, they to deliver it to him at their discretion – And at his decease, the same to descend to his children, to be equally divided among them. —

                All the remainder & Residue of my Estate both real & personal it is my Will & I hereby direct shall be divided equally among my eight Children viz Ellis Holmes, Chandler Holmes, Samuel Holmes, Rebecca Bradford, Deborah Barnes Esther Shaw, Remember Harlow and Mary Spooner, deducting from two of the above Shares as below, viz, from the Share of Rebecca Bradford one hundred & fifty Dollars, being half the Sum, I paid the late Company of Ichabod & Eleazer Holmes for her Husband Nathaniel Bradford – and from the Share of Remember Harlow the Sum of ninety Dollars being what her late Husband Samuel Harlow deceased requested me to pay to Ansel Harlow for him, which Sum I paid accordingly –

                Furthermore, notwithstanding the above – my two Carts & one Waggon & two Ploughs, & one Iron tooth Harrow, & all my Interest in my Teams both oxen & Horse I hereby give to my Sons Ellis & Chandler in the following Manner viz Three quarters of the Value thereof to said Ellis, & the other quarter of them to said Chandler, & to their Heirs.—

                Lastly I hereby nominate & appoint my Son Ellis Holmes & my Son-in-Law Nathaniel Spooner Executors of this my last Will & Testament —

                In Testimony of all which I have hereunto set my hand & Seal at Plymouth this fifteenth day of october Anno Domini 1813. —

signed sealed & delivered & declared

by the said Ichabod Holmes to be his last

Will & Testament in presence of us.~~                                                                           Ichabod Holmes                               (seal)

                Ephraim Spooner

                Thomas Spooner

                Sally Spooner

 

Presented for probate on 15 Apr. 1817 by Ellis Holmes and Nathaniel Spooner Esqr., the Executors therein named, and proved by Ephraim Spooner Esqr. and Thomas Spooner, two of the witnesses.

 

Rosseter Cotton Esqr., Solomon Churchill and Ichabod Morton, yeoman, all of Plymouth, were appointed to appraise the Estate of Ichabod Holmes, late of Plymouth, yeoman, on 15 Apr. 1817. The inventory was dated 29 Apr. 1817, and totaled $5755.23, his real estate included several parcels of land including his dwelling house and store valued at $1250, and his Flakeyard adjoining the sea shore with two fish houses valued at $1350. Ellis Holmes and Nathaniel Spooner Esqr., the Executors, gave their oath to the inventory on 13 May 1817.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 48, pp. 429-431, 465-466, from FHL microfilm #0550905.

 

 

Will of Isaac Holmes of Kingston, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1738) *

In the Name of God Amen. I Isaac Holmes of Kingston in ye County of Plymouth in New-England Yeoman being of a disposing Mind & Memory blessed be God and knowing that it is appointed for all once to dy to Make and Ordain this my last Will & Testament in Manner following in the first Place I Give & Bequeath my Soul to God that gave it Me & my Body to the Grave with a Christian Burial in hopes of a blessed Resurrection at last: And as to the Outward Estate it hath pleased God to favour Me with I Give & Dispose of ye Same in the following Manner—Imprims. I Give & Bequeath unto my dear & loving Wife Mary Holmes (After my just Debts are paid & my funeral Charge discharged) My Mind is that my Wife have ye one half of my moveable Estate to be at her Dispose and the Use of my real Estate till my Son Isaac Holmes come to the Age of twenty one Years and then my Will is and I do hereby Give & Bequeath unto my loving Son Isaac Holmes the Whole of my real Estate & do hereby make it ye Condition hereof upon which he holds ye Same that my sd Son Provide for his dear Mother all things need full & necessary that She stands in need of so long as She remains my Widow. And moreover my Mind is yt my Son have all my Farming Tools and Utensils—Itm my Mind is that there be a Computation of what my Daughters have had before this Will comes in force & then my Will is and I do hereby Give & bequeath ye Remainder of my Estate unto my four Daughters (viz) Hannah Everson, Mary Phillips, Zerviah Chandler, & Susanna Holmes to be equally divided among them that the Part of Each may be equal —

And finally my Will is that my dear & loving Wife Mary Holmes be ye Executrix of this my last Will & Testament And do hereby Constitute & ordain her ye Sole Executrix of this my last Will and Testament Hereby Ratifying & Making void all other & former Wills by Me made & Confirming this & no other to be my last Will & Testament as Witness my Hand & Seal this thirtieth Day of March anno Domi 1738.                                                                              his

Signed Sealed & Declared by ye Abovesd Isaac Holmes                                             Isaac  W   Holmes

to be his last Will & Testamt before us —                                                                              mark

J. Stacey – Joseph Bridgham  Francis Adams

 

Proved on 3 May 1738 by Joseph Stacey, Joseph Bridgham and Francis Adams, the witnesses.

 

Mr. Francis Adams, & Mr. Judah Hall, both of Kingston, and Mr. Joseph Freeman, of Duxborough, were appointed to appraise the estate of Isaac Holmes, late of Kingston, on 3 May 1738. The Inventory of the Estate of Isaac Holmes, of Kingston, deceased, dated 10 May 1738, was not totaled, but his Dwelling House & Barn and whole Homestead & the Appurtenances was valued at £500. Mary Holmes, the executrix, gave her oath to the inventory on 18 May 1738.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 7, pp. 404-406, from FHL microfilm #0550513.

 

 

Will of Isaac Holmes of Rochester, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1742) *

In the Name of God Amen I Isaac Holmes of Rochester in the County of Plimouth in the province of the Massachusets bay in New England Yeoman of perfect mind and Memory (thanks be given to God) Calling to mind the Mortallity of my Body and knowing it is appointed for all Men Once to die do make and Ordain this as my Last will and Testament That is to say principally and first of all I Give & Recommend my Soul into the Hands of God that Gave it and my body I recommend to the Earth to be decently Buried in a Christian manner at the Discretion of my Executors — hereaftermentioned nothing doubting but at the Generall resurrection I Shall receive again the same by the Mighty power of God and as Touching such worldly Estate wherewith it pleased God to bless me with in this life I Give Demise & dispose of the Same in the following form and manner – Imprimis my Will & desire is that all my Just debts and funeral Charges Shall be paid out of my personall Estate at ye. Discretion of my Executor hereaftermentiond.

Item. I Give and bequeath to my Dearly beloved wife Sarah Holmes My Great Bible Dureing the time of her widowhood & no longer and at ye. Expiration of the Same I Give the Aforesaid Great Bible to my Daughter Anna and her heirs of her body lawfully begotten forever

Item. And I allso Give to my said wife Sarah Holmes the best Bed and Furniture being hers allready by Vertue of my Honrd. Fathers last will and testament together with the Sole improvement of all my real and personal Estate untill the Several periods hereafter Expressed be Expired in Order to the bringing up of my Children (Excepting those that are of age allready) and when they arrive to the age of twenty One Years or their marriage day She Shall deliver them their several portions in my real Estate hereafter Given them respectively herein provided She remain my widdow till that time And in case She shall see Cause to Marry again before My said Children come to ye. Age of twenty One years it is my will and desire that She Enjoy the improvement of One third part of my Real & personal Estate for her use and Benyfit dureing the time of her Natural life and for my Children on the marriage of their mother to choose Guardians for themselves when they Shall come to ye. age of fourteen years to take care of the Improvement of their sd. portions in order for their bringing up till ye. age of twenty One years And further my will is that Each of my daughters Shall be Equally Chargeable with the Comfortable Support of their mother dureing the time of her widowhood in Case She Stands in Need.

Item  I Give & bequeath To my Eldest daughter Anna Holmes and her heirs of her body lawfully begotten & Assigns forever One quarter part of my homestead Farm in my Estimation Bounded as followeth (the Buildings Excepted) viz Begining at the Southwest Corner thereof thence runing North nineteen Degrees west to a Cedar Stake betwixt my Brother Josiah Holmes land & myne thence runing the same point of Compass to the roade as it Now runs then bounded in the Land formerly my Honrd. Fathers Now in the possession of Peter Crapoo Senr. to the Little pond so Called Thence Begining again at the Southwest Corner aforesaid and runing Easterly by the Stone wall between my brother Josiah Holmes and my Selfe Seventeen rods And thence North Nineteen Degrees west to the Little pond aforesd. together with my part of the Row of Apple Trees standing West of Josiah Holmes’ house and likewise one Quarter part of all my Buildings with ye. appurtenances thereto belonging ~ Item  I Give & bequeath to my Second daughter Abigail Holmes & her heirs of her body lawfully begotten and assigns forever One quarter part of my Homestead farm in my Estimation bounded as followeth viz begining at ye. South East Corner of Anna Holmes. part aforesd. thence Easterly by the Stone Wall aforesaid Seventeen rods thence North Nineteen degrees west to the little pond Aforesd. and likewise One third part of my Orchard, that Joyns to Josiah Holmes Orchard with ye. Appurtenances therto belonging together with one quarter part of all my Buildings ~ Item  I Give and bequeath to my Third daughter Mercy Holmes and her heirs of her body lawfully begotten and assigns forever One quarter part of my Homestead Farm in my Estimation bounded as followeth viz begining at ye. South East Corner of Abigail Holmess. part thence Easterly in the Line of Josiah Holmess. land till it comes to ye. South East Corner of my Inclosure thence as my Fence now stands by the Swamp side till it comes to ye. North End of a Stone Wall thence North twenty three degrees west to the Little pond aforesaid Together with One third part of my Orchard that Joyns to Josiah Holmess. orchard and likewise one One quarter part of all my Buildings with the Appurtenances therto belonging. Item  I Give and bequeath to my fourth daughter Sarah Holmes and her heirs of her body lawfully begotten and assigns forever One quarter part of my Homestead farme in my Estimation bounded as followeth, viz on the West part by Mercy Holmess. part on the South part by Josiah Holmess. land on the East by Jonathan Snows land and on the North by the little pond aforesaid together with the other third part of my Orchard that Joyns to Josiah Holmess. Orchard together with the free passage to and from said Orchard where it is most Convenient and least hurt full to any Other of my Children, and allso that Gore of land that I bought of Peter Crapoo Senr. lying on the west side and adjoyning to that part I Give to my Eldest daughter Anna Holmes and likewise One quarter part of all my Buildings with the appurtenances thereunto belonging

Item, I Give and bequeath to my Four daughters Anna Abigail Mercy & Sarah Holmes all my Other Estate Not yet Mentioned viz Forty Acres of Land lying & being in partnership with Joseph Clarke lying in the Gore adjoyning to Dartmouth Line and all my right Title & privilige in the Cedar Swamp being Allso in Partnership with Joseph Clarke aforesd. lying to the Northward of the House formerly William Griffiths and allso all My right Title and privilige in the Spruce Swamp lying in the Long pond Swamp so Called and allso my Sixth part of a Lott of Salt Meadow adjoyning to ye. Sedge Cove so Called and lying on the East Side of Winnasantick river in the Township of Warham to them and their heirs lawfully begotten and Assigns forever to be Equally Divided between my said Four Daughters aforementioned

Item, I Give and bequeath to my four Daughters abovementioned Anna Abigail Mercy and Sarah Holmes and to their heirs of their body lawfully begotten & assigns forever all the rest of my Estate both Real and Personal wheresoever and in Whatsoever place it May be found and not before Disposed of after my said Wifes Decease or Intermarriage —  Lastly I Constitute Appoint & Make and Ordain my Dearly beloved wife Sarah Holmes the Sole Executrix of this my last will and testament and do hereby utterly Disallow Revoke and make void all and Every other former Wills & Testaments Legacys bequests and Executors by me in any ways before this and no other to be my last will and Testament  In Witness whereof I have hereunto Set my hand and Seal this thirteenth day of December in the Sixteenth year of the reign of our Sovereign Lord George the Second Annoque Domini 1742.

Signed Sealed Published & Declared

by the sd. Isaac Holmes to be his Last

Will and Testament In Presence

of us the Subscribers.                                                                                                          Isaac Holmes                    (seal)

Edward Pell

Elias Miller

Thomas Whitredge

 

Presented for probate on 21 May 1746 by Sarah, the Executrix, and proved by Edward Pell, Elias Miller, and Thomas Whitridge, the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted unto his widow Sarah Holmes of Rochester, Executrix, on 21 May 1746.

 

The Inventory of the Estate both Real and personal of Isaac Holmes, late of Rochester, yeoman, not dated, appraised by Caleb Blackwell, Isaac Freeman, and Noah Sprague, totaled £1289.12.0, including his real estate containing his homestead, Cedar Swamp, Spruce Swamp, Gore Lott, and Sale Meadow valued at £900. The appraisers gave their oath to the inventory on 14 Apr. 1746, and Sarah Holmes, the Executrix, gave her oath to the inventory on 21 May 1746.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 10, pp. 210-214, 215-216, from FHL microfilm #0551535.

 

 

Will of Isaac Holmes of Kingston, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1756) *

        I Isaa Holmes, being bound on the Exedition at Crown=point and calling to mind my Danger; and How Lyable I am to be Taken a way by Death Do Make this My last Will and Testament; and Principally and first of all I Give & Recommend my Soul into the hands of God that Gave it and my body to the Earth from whence it came; and as to my Worldly Estate it is my Will That my Dear and loving wife Shall have it all in her hands after my Just Debts are first paid To bring up my Children till they come to Such an age as they may be put Out to Trades; and then it is my Will she Should have the Improvment of halfe my real Estate so long As she Remains My Widow

        Item I Give to my Two Sons Isaac & Benjamin my Real Estate, Equally between them to be Divided between them After their Mothers decease or marrage;

Item I Give to my Daughter                  all my Personall Estate After my Debts are paid out of it if there be any Left—

And Lastly I appoint my Dear Wife Mary to be my Sole Execr. of this my Last Will and Testament  In Witness whereof I have Set my hand & Seal this Third of May 1756,

Signed, Sealed Declared &                                                                                                Isaac Holmes                                    (seal)

Published this to be his last

Will and Testament, In presence

of

        Samuel Foster

        Samuell Adderton

        Thomas Additon

 

Presented for probate on 1 Nov. 1756 by the Executrix, and proved by Saml. Foster and Samuell Additon, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to the widow Mary Holmes, Executrix, on 1 Nov. 1756.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Isaac Holmes late of Kingston, appraised on 20 Apr. 1757 by Saml. Foster, Ephraim Holmes, and John Wadsworth, totaled £134.17.0, including his real estate, upland, meadow and buildings valued at £110. Mary Holmes, the Executrix, gave her oath to the inventory on 19 July 1757.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 14, pp. 182-183, 290, from FHL microfilm #0551542.

 

 

Will of James Holmes of Plymouth, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1806) *

        In the Name of God amen I James Holmes of Plymouth in the County of Plymouth in New England Yeoman being of a sound Mind but considering the Uncertainty of Life, do think proper to settle my worldly Estate; & to make my last Will & Testament in Manner following – viz first of all I commend my Soul to the everlasting Mercy of God through Christ, & my Body to a decent Burial humbly hoping for a glorious Resurrection through the Merits of my Redeemer & as to my worldly Estate I dispose of in the following Manner —

        1st I give & bequeath to my Wife Anne the Improvement of one third of all my Real Estate while she remains my Widow, also all the Household Furniture for her to dispose of as she pleases to her Daughters —

        2d. I give to my four Daughter viz Remember, Sarah, Anne & Lucy fifty Dollars to each of them —  I give to my Grandson Thomas the Son of Rufus Holmes deceased an Hundred Dollars,– I give to my Granddaughter Pamela the Daughter of my Son Robert Holmes deceased twenty Dollars —  I give to my two Sons Zephaniah and Zacheus all my Real & personal Estate wherever it may be found that is not disposed of as above.

It is my will that my two Sons Zephaniah & Zacheus pay unto my four Daughters the above Legacies & to my two Grandchildren their Legacies if they live to come of Age It is my will that my two Sons pay all my just debts & receive all debts due to me, it is my will that my two Sons pay my funeral charges, it is my Will that my two sons Zephaniah & Zacheus be the sole Executors of this my last will & Testament in Testimony & confirmation of which I the said James Holmes do hereunto set my hand & Seal this twentieth day of February AD 1806 —

signed sealed & declared to be his last Will &

Testament in presence of —

        Abner Bartlett                                                                                                              James Holmes                   (seal)

        Reuben Harlow

        Anne Bartlett

 

Presented for probate on 2 Aug. 1808 by Zephaniah Holmes and Zacheus Holmes, the Executors therein named, and proved by Abner Bartlett Esqr. and Reuben Harlow, two of the witnesses.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 42, p. 383, from FHL microfilm #0550902.

 

 

Will of Jeremiah Holmes Jr., of Plymouth, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1799) *

        In the name of God, Amen—I Jeremiah Holmes junr of Plymouth in the County of Plymouth declare being of sound & disposing mind do make & order this to be my last will & testament—first of all, I commend my soul to the everlasting mercy of God that gave it, and my body to a decent funeral humbly praying & hoping for a glorious resurrection through Jesus Christ

        In the next place, I order my Executors to discharge my just debts & funeral expences, and the remainder of my estate, I dispose of as follows—

        First—I Give and bequeath unto my Daughter Nancy, all her mothers wearing apparell & all my Silver Spoons, Rings & Jewells & all my glass ware & one looking glass & a Case of draws & one large table & six chairs & one brass kettle & a Cow in the care of Nathaniel Harlow & one note against the said Harlow & six sheep that is lett out to John Kempton & one good Bed & Bedstead with bolster, two pillows, a pair of sheets, & two coverlids & the Curtains & a copper warming pan & one Note against Timothy Nye and.—and I Give & bequeath unto my three Sons Thomas Holmes & Jeremiah Holmes & William Holmes the remainder of my estate, to be equally divided between my three sons ~

Lastly—I nominate & appoint Deacon John Bishop & Rosseter Cotton Esqr of Plymouth to be the Executors of this my last will & testament

Signed Sealed & declared to be my

last will & testament in presence                                                                                      Jeremiah Holmes junr    (seal)

of            Billey Saunders

                Mary Boilston

                Hannah Stevens

 

The will of Jeremiah Holmes junr, of Plymouth, dealer, was presented for probate on 22 Oct. 1799 by John Bishop & Rosseter Cotton Esqr., the Executors therein named, and proved by Mary Boilston & Hannah Stevens, two of the witnesses thereto.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 37, p. 135-136, from FHL microfilm #0550719.

 

 

Settlement of the Estate of John Holmes of Plymouth, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1700) *

These presents witnesseth ye mutual agreement made and Agreed upon ye 29th day of September Anno Domini 1700 Betweene John Holmes of Plimouth in ye County of Plimouth in New England Eldest Son of John Holmes Late of Plimouth aforesd deceased Intestate of ye one part and Patience Holms Relict and widdow of ye sd deceased in behalf of her self and Such of her Children as are in their minority And John Dotey and George Bonum junr of Plimouth aforesd Gardians for and in ye Behalf of Richard Holmes Son of sd Deceased that is to say sd Widdow in Behalf of patience Mehetabel Sarah & George being minors And Nathanael Ebenezer Thomas & Joseph Holmes Desire ye wife of John Churchell being of full age & In behalf of themselves All of ye other part  Witnesseth That as a full and finall Settlement of ye sd Estate of sd Deceased The sd John Holmes doth hereby bind and oblige himself his heirs Executors & Administrators to pay or Cause to be paid unto ye said Widdow in full for her Dower or Right of Thirds of and in all ye Housing and lands of ye sd deceased The full Sum of twenty five Shillings in money yearly & Every year for & during ye whole time or term of her Naturall Life And also to pay unto Every of ye said Children that is to say to Nathanael Ebenezer Thomas and Joseph desire ye Wife of John Churchel Richard Patience Mehetabel Sarah and George Each of them ye Sum of five pounds money Which shall be in full for their parts and Severall Respective portions of ye sd Housing and Lands which to ye sd Deceased while he lived and at ye time of his death did appertayne And ye said Patience Holmes Relict & Widdow of ye sd Deceased In Consideration of ye sd yearly Sum to her Secured to be Annually paid as aforesd Doth hereby absolutely Grant Remise Release and for Ever quitt Claime unto ye sd John Holmes his heirs and Assigns for Ever All her Right of Dower & power of thirds that she ye sd Widdow hath or ought to Have of in or unto ye sd Housing & Lands with ye Appurtenances To have and to Hold ye sd Released and hereby Granted, Promises unto him ye sd John Holmes his Heirs and Assigns to his & their sole proper use benifit & behoofe for Ever And ye above named Children & their sd Mother & Gardiens in behalf of Such of them as are minors doth Severally & absolutely Grant Remise Release & for Ever quitt Claym unto ye sd John Holmes his heirs and Assigns for Ever All their & Either of their Severall & Respective Rights that they or any of them have or of Right ought to have or that they or their Severall Heirs hereafter may have or Claym of in or unto ye said Housing and Lands with ye Appurtenances To Have & to hold ye sd Released & hereby Granted premisses unto him ye sd John Holmes his heirs & Assigns to his & their sole proper use benifit and behoofe for Ever Without any Matter of Chalenge Claym or demand of us ye sd and above named Sons & Daughters of ye sd Deceased or Either of us our or Either of our Severall heirs & Assigns for Ever. In witness whereof we have hereunto set our hands & Seals on ye day & year first above written

Witness  Samuel Sprague                                                                  The X mark of

                Jael Bradford                                                                                       Patience Holmes                  (seal)

                                                                                                                The B mark of

                                                                                                                                George Bonum                    (seal)

                                                                                                                                in behalf of sd Richard

                                                                                                                The mark X of patience

                                                                                                                Holmes widdow in behalf

                                                                                                                of her above named children             (seal)

                                                                                                                that are minors

                                                                                                                Thomas Holmes                                   (seal)

                                                                                                                Nathanael Holmes                               (seal)

                                                                                                                Ebenezer Holmes                                 (seal)

                                                                                                                Joseph Holmes                                     (seal)

                                                                                                                Desire Churchell

                                                                                                                                her d mark                            (seal)

                                                                                                                John Churchell –

                                                                                                                John Holmes                                         (seal)

 

Memorandum that on ye 29th day of Sept 1701 Before me ye Subscriber judge of Probate personally appeared ye parties who are above named And have hereunto Sealed & Subscribed And acknowledged ye Agreement above written to be their act & Deed

                                                                                                                William Bradford

Entered & Recorded

October 21th 1701                               Saml Sprague Register.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 1, p. 347.

 

 

Will of John Holmes of Middleborough, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1730) *

Know All Men by these Presents that I Jno Holmes of the Town of Middleboro’ in the County of Plymo. In New England, Being at this present time very Sick, yet of Sound & Disposing memory & Understanding, Blessed by God for ye same, Do make & ordain this to be my Last Will and Testament to Remain firm & Inviolable forever.

Imprimis. I Give & Bequeath Unto my well beloved Wife Elizabeth Holmes the whole Use & Improvement of my Dwelling House, Barn & Out Houses, & also ye Use, Improvement and Income of that Lot of Land whereon my Dwelling House now Standeth being in Number ye 20th of ye five & twenty acre Lots in the Purchase Called ye 26 men’s purchase, During her Widowhood.

Item. I Give & Bequeath Unto my Eldest Son Ephraim Holmes all that my Lot of Land Containing by Estimation 25 Acres being in Number ye 20th of ye five & twenty Acre Lots Aforesd., Together with ye Buildings & fences thereon, The Same to belong Unto him his Heirs & assigns forever always Reserving Unto his Mother the Use & Improvement thereof During her widowhood as aforesaid. — — —

Item. I Give & Bequeath Unto my Son Jno Holmes and his Heirs & assigns forever, all that my Parcell of Land Containing about ten acres more or less, being the Head of the Eighteenth of ye five & twenty acre Lots; and also all that my parcel of Land Containing about twelve acres be it more or Less which I lately bought of Jabez Vaughen; Excepting a small parcel thereof wch I lately sold to Jacob Tomson

Item. I Give & Bequeath Unto my loving Wife Elizabeth Holmes one Bed & Bedding & my will is that all my flax shall be for ye Use of ye family.

Item. I Give unto my two sons all my wearing Cloaths.

Item. I Give & Bequeath Unto my two Daughters Sarah Holmes & Betty Holmes all my moveable Estate whatsoever both within Doors & without Doors, Excepting what I have herein before particularly Given away & Disposed of; and also I Give Unto my said two Daughters all the debts Due to me, The Same to be Equally Divided between them, my Just Debts & funeral charges being first paid out of the Same; Always Reserving Unto my wife the Use & Improvement of all my moveables During her widowhood, She making Good ye Same or ye Value thereof to my Sd Daughters when they arrive to ye age of Eighteen years.— And my Will is that my Loving Wife Elizabeth Holmes Shall be Executrix of this my last Will and Testament.— Thus hoping that this my last Will & Testament will be kept & performed according to the true Intent & meaning thereof, I Commit my Body to the Dust & my Soul to GOD yt. gave it — —  In Witness whereof I the aforesd. Jno. Holmes have hereunto Set my Hand & Seal this fourteenth Day of february, one thousand Seven hundred twenty nine, thirty. —

Signed, Sealed & Declared by ye                                                                                Memo the Interline between

abovenamed Jno Holmes to be his                                                    the 20th & 21st Lines was inter-

last will & Testament                                                                         lined before Signing and

In ye Presence of us —                                                                       Sealing

Jabez Vaughan                                                                                                                    Jno Holmes         (seal)

Isaac Tinkham

Jacob Tomson

 

Probated on 5 Mar. 1729/30, and proved by Jabez Vaughan, Isaac Tinkham, & Jacob Tomson.

 

Mr. Jabez Vaughan, Mr. Isaac Tinkham, and Mr. Jacob Tomson were appointed to appraise the estate of John Holmes, late of Middleborough, on 12 Mar. 1729/30. The inventory was dated 11 Sept. 1730, and totaled £463, including his 25 acres of land and dwelling house being the number 20th of the 25 acre lots, valued at £240, and his 10 acres of land, being part of the number 18th of the 25 acre lots, along with his 12 acres adjoining it that he had purchased from Jabez Vaughan, valued at £60.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth Co. Probate Vol. 5, pp. 700-701, 752-753, from FHL microfilm #0550511.

 

 

Will of John Holmes of Kingston, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1747) *

In the Name of God Amen, I John Holmes of Kingston In the County of Plymo. yeoman, Being of a Disposeing Mind & Memory, Blessed be God. And Calling To Mind My own Mortality & knowing that is appointed for all once To Dye Do make & ordain this my Last Will & Testament In Manner Following, I Bequeath my Soul To God that Gave it me & my Body To the Earth, With a Christian Buriel in Hope of a Blessed Resurrection, & Also to the outward Estate it Hath Pleased God To Bless me With, I Dispose of the Same in ye following manner & form after my Just Debts are Paid & My funeral Charges Discharged—

I Give and Bequeath unto my Dear & Loveing Wife the use & Improvement of all my Real Estate Dure Life or Widdow Whood also the use of my Personal Estate (other then What I Have or Shall otherwise Dispose of.~~

Item I Give & Bequeath unto My Loveing Sons, Peleg Holmes and Josiah Holmes, In Equal Halves all that my Housen and Lands (only Reserving the use of the Fireroom & the New Bedroome in the Linto for my Two Two Daughters, Sarah & Marcy, untill they are marryed) To Have & To Injoy, after their Mothers Decease or Marriage again They Paying To their Brother John Holmes Twenty Pounds a Peice, Within one year after He Comes of age or after My Decease.

Item I Give & Bequeeth unto my Loveing Son John Holmes Forty Pounds Money To Be Paid by my Two Sons as is above Expressed In old Tenor as the money then Passes in one year after He Comes of age, also all my Wareing Cloaths or Apperel at my Decease, moreover my Mind is that my Two Sons Peleg & Josiah May not Charge my Estate With any Deat already Contracted by bond or any otherwise

Item. I Give & Bequeeth unto my Two Loveing Daughters Sarah & Marcy the use of the Fireroom & New Bedroom In the Leanto So Called as they Remain unmarried Also one Bead & Furnature a Piece

Item I Give & Bequeeth unto my three Daughters, Mary Sturtavant, Sary Holmes Marcy Holmes, all my Personell Estate that Shall Remain after their Mothers Death or Second Marriage, but if my Loveing Wife Should Marry again then I Give Her my Best Bead & furniture

I Do Hereby Constitute & ordain my Loveing sons Peleg & Josiah Executors of this My Last Will and Testament, Hereby makeing Null and Void all other Will or Wills by me Heretofore made & Confirming this & No other To be My Last Will & Testament. In Witness, Whereof I Have Hereunto Set my Hand & Seal Janry 26th A.D. 1746/7

Signed Sealed & Delivered by the abovesd

John Holmes To be His Last Will & Testiment

Before us

                Gershom Bradford                                                                                              John Holmes     (seal)

                Richard Adams                                                                                                    --------------------------

                Frances Adams

 

Presented for probate on Febry 6 1748 by the Executors therein named, and proved by Frances Adams and Richard Adams.

 

John Faunce, Joseph Mitchel, and John Fuller, all of Kingston, yeomen, were appointed to appraise the Estate Real & Personal of John Holmes, late of Kingston, on 7 Feb. 1748. The Inventory of the Estate of Mr. John Holmes, late of Kingston, dated 24 Feb. 1748, totaled £1965.6 old tenour, including his real estate valued at £1362.10. Peleg Holmes and Josiah Holmes, the Executors, gave their oath to the inventory on 24 Mar. 1748.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 11, pp. 141, 175-176, from FHL microfilm #0551537.

 

 

Will of John Holmes of Freetown, Bristol County, and Middleborough, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1795) *

        This seventh day of April in the year of our Lord one Thousand seven hundred and Ninety five, I John Holmes of Freetown in the County Bristol in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts Housewright calling to mind the mortality of my Body, knowing that it is appointed once for all men to die, being in perfect memory, I make & constitute this to be my last will and Testament – In the first place I give and bequeath my Soul into the hand of God that gave it, and commit my Body to the dust, to be buried in a decent manner at the discretion of my Executor and as touching my worldly Interest, I give devise and dispose of it in manner following. In the first place I give to my sons James John, William & Church all my wearing apparel and Carpenter’s Tools to be equally divided between them.

Item I give to my Son Israel’s Children which are named, Joseph Susanna and Margaret thirty Dollars to be equally divided between them to be paid by my sons James & Church —

Item I give to my three Daughters Sarah Joannah & Deborah all my indoor moveables after my Wife’s decease –

Item I give my Sons James & Church all my live stock & Credit and for which and and other considerations, they have covenanted to pay all my just debts & funeral Charges, likewise I ordain and constitute my Son James to be my only & sole Executor to this my last Will and Testament and by these presents do disallow & revoke all former Wills, Testaments or Legacies & Executors whatever and ratify and confirm this to be my last Will & Testament, in Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand & Seal

Signed sealed published pronounced

and declared by said John Holmes

to be his last Will and Testament in

in presence of us –

        William White                                                                                                              John Holmes                                     (seal)

        Mercy White

        Joseph White

 

Presented for probate on 16 Nov. 1804, where he was called John Holmes late of Middleborough, Housewright, by John Millard the Executor therein named, and proved by William White Senr. and Joseph White, two of the witnesses.

 

Joseph LeBaron, Jacob Shaw and Eli Atwood, all of Middleborough, yeomen, were appointed to appraise the estate of John Holmes, late of Middleborough, yeoman, on 9 Aug. 1804. The inventory was dated 4 Sept. 1804, and totaled $137.49, no real estate, but included cash due on a Note on James Holmes and Church Holmes for $27.97. John Millard, Executor of the Will of John Holmes, gave his oath to the inventory on 16 Nov. 1804.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 40, p. 104-106, from FHL microfilm #0550901. If James Holmes, the Executor actually named in the will, refused to take the responsibility to administer upon the estate of his father, it was not recorded in the probate books.

 

 

Will of John Holmes of Pembroke, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1841) *

In the name of God Amen. I John Holmes of Pembroke, being weak in body but of sound and perfect mind and memory, blessed by Almighty God for the same, do make and publish this my last will and testament in manner and form following viz.

First—I give and bequeath unto my beloved wife Peggy Holmes the use and improvement of all my real and personal estate, after paying all my just and honest debts, during her natural life. And all property left after the decease of my wife to be equally divided between my beloved children Mary Simmons, William Holmes, John Holmes jur, Joseph Holmes and Samuel Holmes or their respective heirs.

And lastly, I do hereby appoint my beloved wife Peggy Holmes sole Executrix of this my last will and testament hereby revoking all former wills by me made

In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this first day of September in the year of our Lord, one thousand eight hundred and forty one. 1841.

                                                                                                                                                John Holmes                                     (seal)

Signed, sealed, published and declared by the above named John Holmes, to be his last Will & Testament in presence of us

                                                                                                                                                Danl. Phillips

                                                                                                                                                Jabez Lapham

                                                                                                                                                Joseph Ewell

 

Presented for probate on the first Tuesday of Oct. 1841 by Peggy Holmes, the Executrix therein named, and proved by Jabez Lapham and Joseph Ewell, two of the witnesses.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 83, p. 421-422, from FHL microfilm #0555267.

 

 

Will of John Holmes of Duxbury, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1870) *

        Know all men by these presents that I, John Holmes of Duxbury in the County of Plymouth and State of Massachusetts mariner, being of sound disposing mind and memory do make and publish this my last Will and Testament.

First. I give and devise to my beloved wife Rebecca R. Holmes all my Real estate & personal estate of every description.

Second, I ordain and appoint Rebecca R. Holmes as executor of my last will and testament.

        In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal, and publish and declare this to be my last will and testament in presence of Witnesses named below this 30 day of April in the year of our Lord 1870.

                                                                                                                                                John Holmes                     (seal)

Signed sealed and published and declared by the said John Holmes as and for his last will and testament in presence of us, who in his presence and in presence of each other, and at his request have hereunto subscribed our names as witnesses.

                                                                                David L. Peterson

                                                                                Hiram T. Delano

                                                                                Helen F. Delano

 

Rebecca R. Holmes, of Duxbury, was granted Letters Testamentary on the estate of John Holmes, late of Duxbury, on 14 Feb. 1876, with J. W. Teele and David L. Peterson, of Duxbury, as sureties.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 141, p. 573, from FHL microfilm #0556648, and Vol. 134, p. 42.

 

 

Will of Jonathan Holmes of Kingston, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1772) *

In the Name of God Amen—upon the tenth day of September in the year of our Lord one thousand Seven hundred and Seventy two, I Jonathan Holmes of Kingston in the County of Plymouth in the Province of the Massachusetts Bay in New-England yeoman upon Good and Serious Considerations, and being under Some Decays of nature, and therefore calling unto mind the mortality of my body, but being now of perfect mind and memory, thanks be Given unto God for the same and therefore knowing that it is appointed for all men once to die, do make and ordain this to be my Last will and Testament, that is to say principally and first of all I Do Give and Recommend my Soul into the hands of God that Gave it, and my body I Recommend to the Earth to be buried in a decent and Christian manner at the discretion of my Executor herein after named, nothing doubting but at the Great and General Resurrection I Shall Recieve the same again by the almighty power of God, and as touching such worldly Goods and temporal Estate that God has been pleased to bless me in this Life with–I Give Demise and dispose of the same in the manner and form following~

Imprimis—my will is that all my just debts and funeral Charges be defrayed and paid out of my Estate

Item—I Do Give and bequeath unto my eldest Son Jonathan Holmes the Sum of Five Shillings together with what he has already Recieved

Item—I Give and bequeath unto my Second Son Robert Holmes that tract or parcell of Land that Lyeth adjoining to that Fifteen acres of Land that I heretofore have Sold him by a Certain Deed of Sale that I have Given him; and Likewise the one half of my Fifteen acres of Cedar Swamp Lying in the Majors purchase Cedar Swamp together with the one half of my Right in the Pew that I have in the meeting House, and these aforesaid premises I do Give to my said Son Robert Holmes his Heirs and assigns forever.

Item—I Do Give and bequeath unto my youngest Son Jedediah Holmes all the Residue and Remainder of all my Real and Personal Estate whatsoever it is and wheresoever it may be found to him his Heirs and assigns forever, but my said Son Jedediah Holmes is hereby obliged to pay out a Legacy to my Daughter Abigail Barre the sum of four pounds Lawful money, and said Son Jedediah Holmes is Likewise obliged to pay a Legacy out to my Daughter Mary Morton the Sum of Thirteen pounds Six Shillings and eight pence Lawful money or to their Heirs and assigns—and Likewise my will is that my said Son Jedediah Holmes Shall take the whole Care, find and provide maintain and Support me in my old age with a Comfortable Support or maintenance during my natural Life at his own Charge and Expence, and Likewise my wife Rebeccah Holmes in Like manner while she shall Remain my widow and no Longer

Item—I Do hereby Constitute and appoint my trusty and Dutiful Son Jedediah Holmes to be my Sole Executor of this my Last will and testament and I do hereby utterly disallow, Revoke and disannul all and every other and former wills testaments and bequests Legacies and Executors by me made in any before named willed and bequested, Ratifying and Confirming this and no other to be my Last will and testament—In Witness whereof I the said Jonathan Holmes have hereunto Set to my hand and Seal the Day and year above written ~

Signed, Sealed, Published Pronounced and

declared by the said Jonathan Holmes to be

his Last will and testament in the presence                                                                    Jonathan Holmes                             (seal)

of us the Subscribers. ~

                Elnathan Fish

                John Johnson

                John Wadsworth

 

Presented for probate on 3 Sept. 1787 by Jedediah Holmes, the Executor therein named, and proved by Elnathan Fish and John Johnson, two of the witnesses. Letters Testamentary were granted to Jedediah Holmes, of Kingston, yeoman, with Elnathan Fish of Pembroke, yeoman, and John Johnson, of Kingston, yeoman, as sureties. Rebeccah Holmes, widow of Jonathan Holmes, late of Kingston, relinquished her right of dower in the estate of her husband Jonathan Holmes, on 3 Sept. 1787.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 30, p. 202-204, from FHL microfilm #0550716.

 

 

Will of Jonathan Holmes of Kingston, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1807) *

        In the Name of God amen I Jonathan Holmes of Kingston in the County of Plymouth Yeoman, being under bodily Infirmities, but of perfect Mind and Memory, Thanks be given to God for it. Calling unto mind the Mortality of my Body & knowing that it is appointed for all Men once to die, do make & ordain this my last will & Testament, that is to say, principally & first of all, I give & recommend my Soul into the Hands of almighty God that gave it, & my Body I recommend to the Earth to be buried in decent Christian Burial, at the Discretion of my Heirs & Executors nothing doubting, but at the General Resurrection I shall receive the same again by the mighty Power of God. — And as touching such worldly Estate wherewith it hath pleased God to bless me in this Life, I give, demise & dispose of in the following Manner & Form that is to say.

                First I give & bequeath to my Brother Simeon Holmes one Dollar —

                I give & bequeath to my Brother Francis Holmes one Dollar —

                I give & bequeath to my Brother Josiah Holmes one Dollar —

                I give & bequeath to my Brother Silvester Holmes one Dollar —

                I give & bequeath to my Sister Elizabeth Holmes one Dollar — also I give to my Sister Elizabeth Holmes one half of my Sheep —

                I give and bequeath to the Children of my Sister Susannah Cushman deceased late Wife of Ebenezer Cushman as follows —

                I give to Silvester Cushman one Dollar —

                I give to Ebenezer Cushman junr. one Dollar —

                I give to Robert Cushman one Dollar —

                I give to Harvey Cushman one Dollar —

                I give to Lydia Bisbe wife to Reuben Bisbe one Dollar —

                I give to Ruth Holmes wife to Barza Holmes one Dollar —

                I give to Susanna Cushman one Dollar —

                I give to Elizabeth Cushman one Dollar — also I give to Elizabeth Cushman the one half of my sheep —

                I give & bequeath to my Brother John Holmes all my personal Estate of every kind, excepting my Money & sheep for him to have & dispose of at his pleasure.— Also I give to my Brother John Holmes the Improvement of the whole of my Real Estate during his natural Life — and at his decease

                I give & bequeath to my Kinsman Joshua Holmes junr. Son to my Brother Silvester Holmes all my Real Estate of every kind lying in this or any other Towns without any Reservation whatever —

        Finally after paying my Legacies just debts & funeral Charges, I give and bequeath unto Barza Holmes Son to my Brother Josiah Holmes, all the Money that I shall die seized of —

        And I do hereby constitute make & ordain Mr John Faunce of Kingston the sole Executor of this my last will and Testament —

        And I do hereby utterly disallow revoke and disannul all & every other former Testaments, wills, Legacies Bequests & Executor by me in any wise before named willed & bequeathed ratifying & confirming this & no other to be my last will and Testament —

        In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand & seal this sixteenth day of January in the year of our Lord one Thousand eight hundred & seven – 1807.

Signed sealed published pronounced & declared

by the said Jonathan Holmes as his last Will

& Testament, in the presence of us, who in his

presence & in the presence of each other have                                                              Jonathan Holmes                             (seal)

subscribed our Names —

                John Prince

                Jehiel Washburn

                Ebenezer Washburn

 

Presented for probate on 25 Aug. 1808 by John Faunce, the Executor therein named, and proved by John Prince, Jehiel Washburn and Ebenezer Washburn, all the witnesses thereto subscribed.

 

Ebenezer Washburn Esqr., Judah Washburn and John Prince, Gentleman, all of Kingston, were appointed to appraise the estate of Jonathan Holmes, late of Kingston, yeoman, on 25 Aug. 1808. The Inventory was dated 2 Jan. 1809, and totaled $3225.67, including his real estate valued at $2185, and $478.06 in money on hand. John Faunce, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 2 Jan. 1808 [sic].

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 42, pp. 384-385, 242-243, from FHL microfilm #0550902.

 

 

Will of Joseph Holmes of Kingston, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1733) *

In ye Name of God Amen. I Joseph Holmes Senr of the Town of Kingston in the County of Plymouth in New-England Husbandman being of a Disposing Mind & Memory Blessed be God & calling to Mind my Own Mortality. Knowing that it is appointed for all once to dy do Make & ordain this my last Will & Testamt in manner following In the first Place I Give & Bequeath my Soul to God that gave it unto Me and my Body to the Earth with a Christian Burial at ye Discretion of my Executrix hereafter named—And as to ye outward Estate that it hath pleased God to bless Me with I Dispose of ye Same in ye following Order

Imprims I Give & Bequeath unto my dear & loving Wife Mary Holmes the Whole use Benefit & Income of all my Estate whatsoever & wheresoever after my just Debts are Paid & my Funeral Charges Discharged, so long as She shall remain my Widow, and if She Marry again then my Mind is that She shall have her Thirds as by Law—

Itm I Give & Bequeath unto my loving Son John Holmes one Shilling I having formerly given him half my former Homestead yt I and he Sold to Caleb Stetson, it being his Portion in full.

Itm I Give unto my dear & loving Children Joseph Holmes Ephraim Holmes Mary Dingley Sarah Bearse & Abigail Turner to Each of ym one Shilling apiece they having had their Portions already—

Itm I Give & Bequeath unto my loving Sons Jonathan Holmes & Micah Holmes, & to my loving Daughter Keziah Holmes All that of my Estate whatsoever that shall remain at my loving Wifes Death after her Funeral Charge is paid, or in Case She Marry again what will then be coming when her Thirds is taken out, and those thirds at her Decease all to be equally divided betwn them to wit Jonathn Micah & Kezia and to Each of their Heirs and assigns forever—And lastly I do nominate ordain & appt my Dear & Loving Wife Mary Holmes my Sole Executrix of this my last Will & Testamt hereby Revoking & Making void all other & former Will or Wills by me heretofore Made and Confirming this & no other to be my last Will & Testament—In Witness hereof I have hereunto Set my hand & seal this Second day of June Anno Domini 1733—

Signed Sealed Declared & Pronounced by ye                                                                Joseph Holmes (seal)

aforesd Joseph Holmes to be his last Will and

Testament Before us—

Benoni Delano

John Brewster

Francis Adams

 

Proved on 10 Aug. 1733 by Benoni Delano, John Brewster, & Francis Adams.

Letters of Administration given on 28 Aug. 1733 to Mary Holmes, the Relict widow and Executrix of the estate of Joseph Holmes, late of Kingston.

 

The inventory of the estate of Joseph Holmes, of Kingston, was appraised by Wrestling Brewster, Francis Adams, and Judah Hall on 27 Sept. 1733, and sworn to by Mary Holmes, the executrix, on 28 Sept. 1733.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 6, pp. 382-383, 400, from FHL microfilm #0550512.

 

 

Will of Joseph Holmes of Kingston, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1756) *

                In the Name of God Amen, I Joseph Holmes of Kingston in the County of Plimouth in NewEngland, being of Perfect mind and memory, tho’ weak in body, and apprehensive, that my Disolution is @ hand Have this twenty Second Day of Aprill Anno, Domi, 1756, Ordaind this my Last Will and Testament, Hereby Revoking, and Disalowing all former Wills and Testaments, Hereby Revoking and Disanulling all former Wills by me made, I Desire to Comitt My Soul to God thro’ a Glorious Redemer in Hopes of Obtaining Everlasting Life thro’ His name, and I do Committ my body to the Earth Desireing it may have a decent Buriall thro’ the care of my Executors, and as for that worldly Estate with which God in his God in his Good Providence has blessed me, my Will is that it Should be Disposed of in manner following, Viz,

Imprs. To my Dear and well=beloved wife I give the Improvment of One Third of my whole Estate both real and Personall, during her naturall Life, and also the Improvement of the Best of it so far and so Long as will be consistant with the Disposition which I here made of my Estate both Real and Personall to my Children as hereafter Mentioned.

Item I Give to my son Joseph one halfe of my home place which I have both in Possession and Reversion except that part of it which I have Particulerly Given to my Son Melatiah as hereafter mentioned, and also an Acre & half of Meadow which lyes near to John Meglathlins, and also one third part of my Ceader Swamp which was Formerly within the Bounds of Plimton now in Halifax, and also my Interest in the Forge and in the Pond-Our, and all my Part of the Sawmill, he Paying my Debts, and also the Severall Legacies which shall be hereafter mentioned, Viz One Third part of the Legacies which are hereafter mentioned to be paid to his Younger Brother and his Sisters,

Item, I Give to my Son Lemuell the other half part of My Home place except as before, that part of it which I have Particulerly Bequeathed to his Brother Melatiah, and also one One third part of the Ceaderswamp aforesaid, all which he Shall Enter into the Possession of as Soon as he shall arrive @ ye. Age of Twenty one Years except his mother’s thirds as aforesd. he paying the Third part of the Legacies hereafter Mentioned

Item I Give to my Son Melatiah all the Meadow from the Cart way over the River @ the uper end of the neck between the River and the upland Down to the new bridge near the School House, and also a peice of meadow a bove the cart way which Goes to Pembrooke Viz, all the Meadow between Ephraim Holmes’s meadow and the Cart way, and also the other third part of the Ceaderswamp Aforesaid All which he shall Possess when he shall arrive @ the age of Twenty one Years, Except his Mothers thirds, he Paying a third part of the Legacies hereafter mentioned, also I give him a Lott of Land containing About Ninety Acres Lying near to Jonathan Crockers’, And it is my Will, that what I have Given to my Sons as Mentioned above should not be understood as Prejudicing my Hond. Mother, but that she Should fully enjoy all the Priviledge which belongs to her in the Estate abovesd.

Item I Give unto my Son, John Thirty and Seven pounds and ten Shillings, to be paid to him by his Brothers Joseph Lemuell, and Melatiah when he shall arrive @ the Age of Twenty One Years.

Item I Give to my Son Thomas the Like Sum of Thirty & Seven pounds and ten Shillings to be Paid to him when he Shall arrive @ the Age Aforesaid, by his Brothers Aforesd.

Item it is my Will that my moveable Estate Should be Equally Divided to my four Daughters Except what I have already Given to their Mother, and also what each of them Viz Lydia, Rebecca, Susanna & Anna, Shall receive Seven pounds, and ten Shillings, from their three Brethern Aforesaid, which Legacy with her part of the Moveables Aforesd. each of them shall Receive as Soon as she shall arrive @ the Age of Twenty and One Years Viz as soon as she shall be Give in Marrage, And it is my Will That if either or any of the Legatees should Die before the time that their Legacies become payable, that then the Surviveing Legatees Shall Enjoy his, her or their Legacies, And also That if either of my three Sons to whom to whom I have Given my Real Estate should Dye without Issue that then the Survivers Should Possess his Part or Portion, and I do Hereby appoint my Dear and well beloved wife Execrx. and My Son Joseph Execr. of this my Last Will and Testament

In Witness whereof I have hereunto Set my hand & Seal the day of the date Abovesaid

Signed Sealed & Delivered                                                                                                Joseph Holmes                                 (seal)

                In Presence of

John Barce Junr.

Jonathan Holmes Jur.

William Rand

 

Presented for Probate on 21 July 1756 by the Execrs., and proved by Mr. William Rand, John Barce Junr. and Jonathan Holmes Jur., the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to his widow Rebecca Holmes, and his son Joseph Holmes, the Executors, on 21 July 1756.

 

An Inventory of the Estate both real and personall that Mr. Joseph Holmes late of Kingston died seized of, appraised on 22 Nov. 1756 by Robt. Bradford, Saml. Ring, and James Everson, not totaled, but his real estate totaled £797.12.10. Rebecca Holmes and Joseph Holmes, the Executors, gave their oath to the inventory on 6 Dec. 1756.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 14, pp. 132-135, 207, from FHL microfilm #0551542.

 

 

Will of Josiah Holmes of Rochester/Mattapoisett, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1851) *

                Know all men by these presents, that I, Josiah Holmes, of Rochester in the County of Plymouth, Commonwealth of Massachusetts, being of sound mind and memory, do make, declare and publish this my last Will and Testament.

                First. I give and bequeath unto my beloved Wife Betsey all the Estate, both real and personal, that she may have received or inherited from the estate of her parents or relatives, to be to her disposal forever.

                I also give and bequeath to my beloved Wife Betsey, a good and honorable support, out of my Estate, during her natural life. This I do in lieu of dower.

                Second. I give and bequeath to my two Sons, Josiah and Jonathan K. two thirds of all my Estate both real and personal, in equal shares between them, on condition that they contribute and pay, or cause to be paid, two thirds of the expense necessary for the support of my beloved Wife Betsey.

                Third. I give and bequeath to my two daughters, Lydia, Wife of Lemuel Le Baron, and Sophronia S, Wife of William E. Sparrow, the other portion or the one third part of all my Estate both Real and Personal, to be divided in equal shares between them, on condition that they contribute and pay, or cause to be paid, one third of the expense necessary for the support of my beloved Wife Betsey.

                In the division of my Real Estate between my children, it is my Will, that the whole be appraised and set off into shares, according to the disposition that I have hereby made. And in the divisions of the several lots of land and buildings, that they bid for choice, and whatever may be paid for choice of lots or buildings, shall be divided in the same manner and proportion as my other personal property or estate.

                                And I hereby nominate and appoint my Son Josiah, and my Son-in-law Lemuel Le Baron, Executors of this my last Will and Testament.

                                In testimony whereof, I hereunto set my hand and seal, and publish and decree this to be my last Will and Testament, this first day of March, in the year one thousand, eight hundred and fifty one.

In the presence of                                                                                                                Josiah Holmes                  (seal)

                A. B. Hammond

                Saml. Sturtevant Jr.

                Benj. F. Barstow

 

Presented for probate on the second Monday of January 1860 by Josiah Holmes and Lemuel Le Baron, the Executors therein named, and proved by A. B. Hammond and Saml. Sturtevant Jr., two of the witnesses.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Josiah Holmes, late of Mattapoisett, was appraised by Saml. Sturtevant Jr., Ansel Weeks, and Barnabas Hiller on 6 Dec. 1860, and totaled $19,545.85, including his real estate valued at $8841, and many notes at interest from various people and bank shares. Josiah Holmes and Lemuel LeBaron, the Executors, gave their oath to the inventory on the second Monday of Jan. 1860.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 102, p. 3-6, from FHL microfilm #0555645.

 

 

Will of Josiah Holmes of Kingston, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1852) *

                Know all men that I, Josiah Holmes, of Kingston, in the County of Plymouth, Esquire, do make and publish and declare this to be my last Will and Testament.

                First. I give and bequeath unto my son William Francis Holmes, and also to my daughter Angeline Holmes, the sum of twenty five dollars each, to be paid to them or their Guardian within one year after my decease

                Second. I give, devise and bequeath unto my son John F. Holmes, all my real and personal estate to have and to hold the same to the said John F. his heirs and assigns forever absolutely and in fee, he to pay the legacies herein given, and all my just debts and expenses.

                Third. And as to my other children and grand-children not named herein, I have omitted them all by design.

                Lastly, I appoint my said Son John F. Holmes, the Executor of this my last Will and Testament.

                In testimony whereof, I have hereto set my hand & seal, this second day of October, in the year eighteen hundred & fifty two.

                                                                                                                                                Josiah Holmes                  (seal)

                Signed, sealed, published and declared by the above named Josiah Holmes to be his last Will and Testament, in presence of us, who in his presence and in the presence of each other and at his request, have hereto subscribed our names as Witnesses the day and year last above written.

                                                                                                                                                James Cushman

                                                                                                                                                Henry T. Cook

                                                                                                                                                Joseph S. Beal

 

Presented for probate on the first Tuesday of October 1860 by John F. Holmes, the Executor therein named, and proved by Joseph S. Beal and Henry T. Cook, two of the witnesses.

 

Joseph S. Beal and Henry T. Cook, of Kingston, were sureties on the bond of John F. Holmes as Executor of the estate of Josiah Holmes, late of Kingston, Esquire, on 2 Oct. 1860.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 102, p. 358-359, from FHL microfilm #0555645, and Vol. 2 I, p. 154.

 

 

Will of Levi Holmes of Kingston, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1795) *

        In the name of God Amen—I Levi Holmes of Kingston in the County of Plymouth, Comwealth of Massachusetts, yeoman, being weak in body but of sound mind & memory, do, this eleventh day of April annoq. Domini one thousand and seven hundred & ninety five, make & publish this my last will & testament in manner following, that is to say

        Imprimis—I Give to my beloved wife, the use & improvement of all my estate, after my just debts & funeral charges are paid, both real & personal (excepting a pair of oxen & ten acres of Land, hereafter disposed of to my oldest Son, at his arriving at twenty one years of age) so long as she remains my widow & no longer

        Item—I bequeath to my oldest son Bradford Holmes ten acres of Land off of my homestead adjoining the Land that Ephraim Chandler late of said Kingston, deceased purchased of the heirs of William Rand deceased, together with a pair of oxen, both which he is to recieve at the time he arrives at the age of twenty one years, to him, his heirs or assigns

        Item—I Give & bequeath to my children after named vizr—Sarah Holmes, Bradford Holmes, Lydia Holmes, Mercy Holmes, Levi Holmes, Lucy Holmes, Sylvester Holmes & Charlotte Holmes, all the residue of my estate both real & personal, or to those of them that are living after the expiration of my wife’s widowhood, to be equally divided betwixt them, to them, their heirs or assigns. and I order my Executor, after named to sell at public vendue, so much of my real estate, as is necessary to pay my just debts, funeral & other charges—and

Lastly—I do constitute & appoint my kindsman Jedediah Holmes of said Kingston Sole Executor of this my last will & testament.—In witness whereof I do hereunto Set my hand & Seal, the day & year above written

Signed Sealed Published, Pronounced & declared

by ye sd Levi Holmes as & for his last will & testa-                                                     Levi Holmes                       (seal)

ment in ye presence of us, who at his request & in

his presence hereunto Set our names as witnesses

to the same

                Joseph Holmes

                Joseph Maglathla

                Tilden Holmes

 

Presented for probate on 21 May 1795 by Jedediah Holmes, the Executor therein named, and proved by Joseph Maglathla & Tilden Holmes, two of the witnesses.

 

Joseph Holmes, Noah Simmons & Levi Bradford, all of Kingston, yeomen, were appointed to appraise the estate of Levi Holmes, late of Kingston, yeoman, on 21 May 1795. The inventory of the estate of Levi Holmes, late of Kingston, totaled £466.7.7, including his homestead in Kingston containing about 200 acres with buildings valued at £345, and 3 acres of salt meadow  in Duxbury valued at £25, and 1/3d of a Pew in the meeting house in Kingston. Jedediah Holmes, the executor of the estate, gave his oath to the inventory on 6 July 1795.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 35, pp. 258-259, 287-288, from FHL microfilm #0550718.

 

 

Will of Melatiah Holmes of Kingston, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1826) *

                In the name of God, Amen. I, Melatiah Holmes of Kingston in the County of Plymouth & State of Massachusetts, yeoman, considering the uncertainty of this mortal life, and being of sound mind and memory, blessed be God for the same, do make and publish this my last Will & Testament in manner and form following (that is to say) – I first give to my three sons William, John & Melatiah two dollars apiece to each of them together with what they have already had before.  Next I give and bequeath unto my three daughters in the following manner, first, a piece of meadow lying near Thomas Holmes adjoining the road by the bridge. Also a wood lot of about fifteen acres lying in Pembroke on berting[?] plain so called. Also half of a pew in the Congregational Meeting House in Kingston, and all the furniture in the house that belongd to me. The above named property I give to Elizabeth Sampson, Susannah Delano, and Prudence Chandler, to be divided in equal shares between them; and if any of these three daughters should bring in any accompt against the Estate it shall be taken out of their shares. Likewise all securities that I hold against any person is to be divided between my three daughters in equal shares as the above property is: And I here appoint my youngest son Melatiah Holmes sole Executor of this my last Will & Testament hereby revoking all former Wills by me made.    In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal the eleventh day of August in the year of our Lord A.D. one thousand eight hundred and twenty-six

Signed, sealed, published

and declared by the above                                                                                                 Melatiah Holmes                             (seal)

named Melatiah Holmes

to be his last Will & Testament in the presence of us who have

hereunto subscribed our names as witnesses, in presence of

the testator.                                                                           Robert Holmes

                                                                                                Robert Howland – Charles Simmons

 

 

Presented for probate on 19 Mar. 1827 by Melatiah Holmes, the Executor therein named, and proved by Robert Holmes, Robert Howland, and Charles Simmons, the witnesses.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 63, p. 407-408, from FHL microfilm #0550912.

 

 

Will of Melatiah Holmes of Kingston, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1860) *

                                                                                                                                                Kingston July 12th 1860.

                Known to all men by these Presents, That I, Melatiah Holmes, of the Town of Kingston, of the County of Plymouth, of the State of Massachusetts, do give and bequeath, (in this my last Will and Testament,) to my wife Sarah, my whole estate whether real or Personal, whatever it may consist of, whether of house-hold goods or money appropriated by her, or whatever I may inherit from my relatives, after paying my funeral expenses, and all other incidental expenses, to be fully at her disposal, for her maintenance and comfort during her life, and after her decease and the payment of all legal demands against my estate.

                I give whatever may remain of my property, to her friends or relatives, as she may direct in her last Will and Testament, after paying her funeral charges and all other expenses.

                And I do appoint James W. Holmes, my Executor to this my last Will and Testament.

                                                                                                                                                Melatiah Holmes                             (seal)

                Signed and sealed in presence of

                                                                                                                                                William James Brewster

                                                                                                                                                Annie M. Holmes

                                                                                                                                                Luna Holmes

 

James W. Holmes, of Kingston, was granted Letters Testamentary on the estate of Melatiah Holmes, late of Kingston, on 29 Oct. 1861, with Elisha Mclauthlin and John F. Hall, both of Kingston, as sureties.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 103, p. 377-378, from FHL microfilm #0555646, and Vol. 114, p. 21.

 

 

Will of Nancy Holmes of Duxbury, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1862) *

                To whom it may concern, I Nancy Holmes of Duxbury, County of Plymouth, Massachusetts do make and publish this my last Will and Testament as follows viz:

First. I hereby appoint Nathaniel Cushing of Duxbury sole Executor of this my last will.

Second. I give and bequeath unto Harriet Barden my mahogany desk and small looking-glass.

Third. I give & bequeath unto Ellis Holmes my mahogany card table, six yellow chairs, and gilt framed looking-glass also my red and green English Carpet and my figured China tea-sett.

Fourth. I give & bequeath unto Henry Holmes my mahogany work-stand and featherbed that I have loaned him.

Fifth. I give and bequeath unto George Holmes and Betsey Thomas my silver spoons marked H. four table & six tea spoons.

Sixth. I give and bequeath unto Jerusha Leach my white china tea sett.

Seventh. I give & bequeath unto Nathaniel E. Cushing my pew in the M.E. Church, Bible & tracts.

Eighth. I give and bequeath unto Mary K. Cushing my silver spoons marked N.H. three table and one dessert spoon, also my large looking glass and sewing machine.

Ninth. I give & bequeath unto Hannah J. Cushing all my household furniture, beds, carpets, crockery &c. &c. not otherwise disposed of.

Tenth. I give unto my sisters Hannah J. Cushing and Jerusha Gibbs & to my niece Mary K. Cushing my clothes and bedding to be divided between them.

Eleventh. I give & bequeath unto Hannah J. Cushing in addition to the above two hundred dollars.

Twelfth. I give & bequeath unto Jerusha Gibbs in addition to the above one hundred dollars.

Thirteenth. I give & bequeath to Thomas Harlow, Ellis Harlows grandson seventy five dollars.

Fourteenth. The remainder of my property I wish to be equally divided between my sisters Hannah J. Cushing and Jerusha Gibbs and my niece Mary K. Cushing.

Fifteenth. I have a perfect recollection of all my kindred none of whom I wish to inherit any of my property except those mentioned in this my last will.  In witness whereof I the said Nancy Holmes have hereunto set my hand & seal this twenty third day of July A.D. 1862.

                                                                                                                                                Nancy Holmes                  (seal)

Signed, sealed, published & declared by the said Nancy Holmes to be her last Will & Testament in presence of us the subscribers who in her presence & at her request and in presence of each other have signed our names as witnesses.

                                                Jonathan Y. Gross

                                                Cynthia Gross

                                                Ralph Partridge

 

Nathaniel Cushing, of Duxbury, was granted Letters Testamentary on the estate of Nancy Holmes, late of Duxbury, on 8 Oct. 1866, with Peleg Cook and Joshua Cushing, of Duxbury, as sureties.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 105, p. 381-382, from FHL microfilm #0555647, and Vol. 124, p. 14.

 

 

Will of Nancy B. Holmes of Kingston, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1877) *

Know all persons by these presents, that I Nancy B. Holmes of Kingston in the County of Plymouth and Commonwealth of Massachusetts, widow, being of a sound disposing mind and memory, do make publish and declare this instrument as and for my last will and testament.

First. I give and bequeath to Mary Ward (Holmes) Leonard wife of James A. Leonard of Highlands in the State of Kansas five hundred dollars.

Second. I give and bequeath all my household furniture and housekeeping goods to Cynthia D. Holmes wife of Frank H. Holmes of said Kingston.

Third. I give and bequeath to the trustees and corporation of the Kingston Evergreen Cemetery in said Kingston, or in case for any reason they decline to receive it to such proper person as the Judge of Probate may appoint, the sum of three hundred dollars in trust to apply the income thereof to the preservation and repair of the lot in said cemetery where I shall be buried, and after said lot shall be properly cared for from year to year to apply any surplus of said income to general repairs in said cemetery.

Fourth. All the rest residue and remainder of my estate real, personal and mixed which I shall be possessed of or in any way entitled to at the time of my decease I give devise and bequeath to my brother Sprague S. Stetson of Lakeville in the County of Plymouth, but in trust nevertheless and for the following purposes, that is to say, to take care of, invest and reinvest the same as to him seems expedient and pay the income thereof annually, and semi-annually if convenient, to my beloved son Mendall Holmes during the term of his natural life and I hereby authorize and empower said trustee or his successor in said trust at any time or times after ten years from the date of this will when it shall seem to said trustee or his said successor that the circumstances or best interests of my said son require or justify it, to pay over and convey to my said son any parts or the whole of said trust fund leaving it wholly to the discretion of the trustee to act as he shall think best in this respect desiring him to deal very kindly by my boy, and at the decease of my said son I direct my said trustee or his successor in said trust to pay over and divide what shall then remain of said trust estate to and equally among such children of my said son as shall be born to him of other wives than the first wife to whom he was married in the year eighteen hundred and seventy three (as I am informed) it being my will that no part of my estate shall ever go to his said first wife or to any issue of hers. Should my said son die without leaving any child or children by any other wife than his said first wife to whom he was married in the year eighteen hundred and seventy three or about that time and without leaving issue of any such child or children of his, then I direct said trustee or his successor in said trust to pay to the aforesaid Mary Ward (Holmes) Leonard wife of James A. Leonard, if living, and in case of her decease to her children equally among them, the sum of four thousand dollars or such part thereof as shall then remain of said trust fund if less at that time.

And the residue of said trust estate, if any, and provided my brother Charles Stetson shall then be living, I direct shall continue to be held in trust during his life and that the income thereof shall be paid annually and semi-annually when it can be to my said brother Charles Stetson during his life, and after his decease and after all payments as herein before provided for I give all that shall remain of said trust estate to the children of my said brother Sprague S. Stetson and direct the trustee under this will to divide the same among them.

Lastly. I appoint my said brother Sprague S. Stetson executor of this my last will and testament, and request that he be exempt from giving sureties on his bonds as Executor & Trustee. And in case of the death, declination, resignation or failure of my said brother to accept either of said trusts, I appoint Thomas Weston Jr. of Newton executor and trustee in his place.

   In testimony of all which I hereunto set my hand and seal in the presence of the witnesses named below this twenty eighth day of December in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and seventy seven.

                                                                                                                                                Nancy B. Holmes                             (seal)

Signed, sealed, published and declared by the above named Nancy B. Holmes as and for her last will and testament in our presence and we in her presence and at her request and in the presence of each other have hereunto subscribed our names as witnesses.

                                                                                D. E. Damon

                                                                                Ada A. Montague

                                                                                Mercy A. Pope

 

Sprague S. Stetson, of Lakeville, was granted Letters Testamentary on the estate of Nancy B. Holmes, late of Kingston, on 26 Aug. 1878, and was exempt from giving surety or sureties on his bond pursuant to said will and statute.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 142, p. 533-535, from FHL microfilm #0556649, and Vol. 133, p. 520.

 

 

Will of Nathaniel Holmes of Plymouth, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1711) *

The Last Will & Testament of Nathaniel Holmes of the Town & County of Plimouth within the Province of the Massachusetts Bay in Newengland. I Nathaniel Holmes considering the certainty of death & the uncertainty of my Aboad in this World being also under some sencable decaying of nature but through Gods goodness of a sound & disposeing mind & memory doe that I may sett my house in order make & ordaine this my last Will & Testament as followeth Imprimis I Give up & Bequeath my Imortall Soul to Got that gave it ____ depending & Relying on the free grace of God & merits of Jesus Christ for eternall Salvation And my frail body to the dust from whence it had its being to be decently buried according to the discretion of my surviving friends hopeing for a glorious Resurrection through the merits of Jesus Christ my glorious Redeemer. And as to the temporall estate that god hath lent me here below my Just debts & funerall charges being first paid & discharged I dispose of as followeth. Item I doe Give unto my son Elisha Holmes & unto his heirs forever my ten acres of land that I Reserved to myself when I gave him that tract of land on which he now liveth to belong to him & his heirs & assignes forever. Item I Give unto my son Nathaniel Holmes the one half of my Sixty acre lot to belong to him & his heirs & assignes forever. Item I doe give unto my son John Holmes & to his heirs forever my twenty acre lot of land lately laid out as also the one half of my Sixty acre lot as also four acres of land at Pontuses meadow So Called. Also one acre of meadow at Southern marsh so called lately Granted to me by the Inhabitants of the town of Plimouth as also my share or part in the wharf at Wallonsly[?] being one quarter part thereof togather with my land at sd Wallingly[?] & my warehouse on which it Standeth all which Severall parcels of land togather with one half of my share or lot of Cedar Swamp I doe give unto him my Sd Son John Holmes to belong unto him & his heirs & assignes forever Item I do give unto my Son Eleazer Holmes and unto his heirs forever the one half of my homestead & the eastermost end of my dwelling house togather with the one half of my fruit trees for him to have possess & Injoy immediately after my decease & after my wives decease my will is & I do by this Instrument give unto him my son Eleazer Holmes & unto his heirs forever all my housing & land that I dye Seized with & not in this my Will herein above disposed of unto my other sons to belong unto him my Sd Son Eleazer holmes & unto his heirs & assignes forever. Lastly I doe give unto my dear & loving wife Marcy Holmes the one half of my homestead and the westermost Room of my dwelling house togather with all my moveable Estate to be at her dispose to be for her use & comfort during life or widowhood but If She Shall So cause to marry again then my Will is that She Shall have my best bed with Sutable furniture thereunto & fourty pounds out of my moveable Estate to belong unto her as her proper Estate to dispose of as She Shall So good. And my will is that all the rest of my moveable Estate that Shall Remain after my wives Marriage or decease that shall then be found Shall be Equally divided between my two daughters that is to Say Marcy Cobb & Sarah Ellis to each of them alike proportion thereof. And lastly I do Constitute & appoint my dear & loving wife Marcy Holmes to be the Sole Executrix of this my last will and Testament to pay all my Just debts & to Receive Such debts as is owing unto me to take care for the buriall of my body & to defray the charges thereof or arise thereupon thus hoping that this my last Will will be carfully kept & performed according to the true Intent thereof hereby Revoaking all former wills by me heretofore made Either verball of written I have hereunto Sett my hand & affixed my Seal on the 19th day of July Anno Domini one thousand Seven hundred & Eleven 1711.

Signed Sealed & declared to be his                                                                                  the marke of

last Will & Testament in presence of                                                                  Nathaniel  W   Holmes                  (seal)

Manasseth Morton

John Faunce Junr

Thomas Faunce

 

August the 3d 1727 Manasseth Morton & Thomas Faunce made oath that they saw the above named Nathaniel Holmes Signe Seal & heard him declare the above written Instrument to be his last Will & Testament & that at the same time they to gather with John Faunce Jur. Set to their hands as witnesses & that also according to the best of their observation he then was of a sound & disposeing mind & memory

                                                                                                                                Before Isaac Winslow Judge of Probate

September 22d 1727 John Faunce Jur. made oath that he saw the above named Nathaniel Holmes Sign Seal & heard him declare the above written Instrument to be his last Will & Testament…

The inventory of the Estate of Nathaniel Holmes of Plimouth was appraised by John Dyer, Thomas Morton, and Eleazer Churchell on 18 Aug. 1727.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth Co. Probate Vol. 5, p. 522-525, from FHL microfilm #0550511.

 

 

Will of Nathaniel Holmes of Plymouth, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1734) *

In the Name of God Amen! I Nathaniel Holmes of Plymouth in the County of Plymouth in New-England, Mariner, being of a disposing Mind & Memory Blessed be God Calling to Mind my own Mortality Knowing that it’s appointed for all once to dy do Make & ordain this my last Will & Testament in Manner following I Give & Bequeath My Soul to God that gave it Me & my Body to ye Grave with a decent Christian Burial in hopes of a blessed Resurrection: And as to the outward & temporal Estate that hath pleased God to favour Me withall I Dispose of ye Same in the following Order & Form - Imprimis I Give & Bequeath unto my dear & loving Wife Eleanor Holmes the Whole use & Improvement of all my Estate real & personal during her natural Life

Itm I Give & Bequeath unto my two Sons Joseph Holmes & Benjamin Holmes their Heirs & assigns forever All my Housing & Lands whatsoever & wheresoever (Excepting what is herein Disposed of) to be equally divided between them at my Wifes Decease—

Itm I Give & Bequeath unto my three Daughters viz: Mercy Tinkcom Patience Holmes & Melatiah Holmes all my Personal Estate within Doors & without (Except what Money shall be left at my Wifes Decease) to be equally Divided between them after my Wifes decease. And what money shall be left at my Wifes Decease after all just Debts paid & all Charges I Give twenty Pounds to my Daughter Patience Holmes & ye use of ye Great Chamber in my Dwelling House during her natural Life: And then ye Remainder of my Money shall be equally Divided to my five Children - my two Sons & three Daughters. And I do Give in Charge to my loving Son Joseph Holmes the Care of my loving Daughter Patience Holmes & her Estate to be Improved for her Good & Comfort. And I do nominate appoint & Ordain my loving Son Joseph Holmes the Sole Executor of this my last Will & Testament Hereby Revoking & Making void all other & former Will or Wills Codicil or Codicils by me heretofore made & Confirming this & no other to be my last Will & Testament- In Witness whereof I the sd Nathaniel Holmes have hereunto Set my hand and Seal this                           Day of                            Annoq. Dom. 1734

Signed Sealed Declared & Pronounced

by ye abovesd Nathl. Holmes to be                                                                                   Nathaniel Holmes                            (seal)

his last Will & Testamt. before us

Edward Sears  -  Francis Holmes

Mary  M  Adams her Mark

 

Proved on 18 May 1737 by Edward Sears, Francis Holmes & Mary Adams, the witnesses.

 

Mr. Benjamin Holmes, of Plymouth, the only surviving son, was granted administration with will annexed of the estate of Mr. Nathaniel Holmes, whose will in 1734 appointed his son Joseph Holmes as Sole Executor, but the Executor has since deceased without completing the execution of the estate, and Benjamin Holmes, the only surviving son of the said Nathaniel Holmes, deceased, is made administrator, on 30 Jan. 1737.

 

Benjamin Holmes of Plimouth, yeoman, upon the death of his Brother Joseph who was Exer. of the Testament of his father Nathll. Holmes of Plimouth, was appointed admr. cum Testamento to sd. Nathaniel, by the Judge of Probate, but so it hapned that by the providence of God Benjamin was and still Continues to be Exercised with the falling Sickness and other disorders which have Greatly affected him in his Intellectual Faculties, Especially his memory which renders him uncapable of the trust aforesaid reposed in him, therefore he prays that some suitable person may be appointed to Compleat both the administrations aforesaid, dated 24 May 1745.

 

Mr. Samuel Nelson, of Plimouth, yeoman, was appointed as administrator of the estate of Mr. Nathaniel Holmes, late of Plimouth, whose will in 1734 appointed his son Joseph Holmes as Sole Executor of his estate, but the Executor also died soon after accepting that trust without completing the Execution, and administration was granted to Benjamin Holmes, the only surviving son of the deceased, on 13 Jan. 1737, but by the providence of God Benjamin has been and still continues to be exercised with the Falling Sickness and other disorders which have greatly affected his intellectual facilities, especially his memory, which has rendered him uncapable of that trust, and Benjamin Holmes having moved that some suitable person might be appointed to complete the aforesaid administration, therefore administration with will annexed is granted to Samuel Nelson on 24 May 1745.

 

Thomas Holmes, Consider Howland, and James Hovey, all of Plimouth, were appointed to appraise the Estate of Nathll. Holmes, late of Plimouth, yeoman, on 20 Sept. 1745. The Inventory of the Estate of Nathaniel Holmes, late of Plimouth, was not dated, but totaled £895.12.0. Mr. Samuel Nelson, the administrator on the Estate of Nathll. Holmes, gave his oath to the inventory on 20 Dec. 1745.

 

Elenor Holmes of Plimouth, widdow Relict of Nathll. Holmes, late of Plimouth, gave a receipt to Dea Samuel Nelson, admr. Cum Testamento annexo of the Estate of her sd. Husband, on 22 Dec. 1746 for £182.13.8 for her share of the estate, witnessed by Mercy Tinkham and James Hovey.

 

Theophilus Cotton of Plimouth, mariner, was appointed by John Cushing Esqr, judge for the probate of wills for the county of Plimouth as administrator de bonis non on the estate of Nathaniel Holmes late of Plimouth on 30 Oct. 1765.

 

The Inventory of the estate of Nathaniel Holmes, late of Plimo, decd, was appraised on 29 Oct. 1765 by Theo. Cotton, Pelham Winslow, and Ebenezer Nelson, and totaled only £50, which consisted of his house & homestead valued at £46, and 2 fifteen acre lots valued at £4. The Administrator de bonis non on the said estate gave his oath to the inventory on 29 Oct. 1765.

 

Theo. Cotton, Pelham Winslow, and Ebenezer Nelson were appointed to divide the real estate into three equal parts for the Representatives of Mercy Tinkham, Patience Holmes and Melatiah Holmes, each one part. The division was dated 29 Oct. 1765, and approved on 30 Oct. 1765.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 7, pp. 305-306, 367, from FHL microfilm #0550513, Vol. 9, p. 489-491, Vol. 10, pp. 48-49, 337, Vol. 17, p. 162, and Vol. 19, p. 303-304.

 

 

Will of Nathaniel Holmes of Plymouth, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1746) *

In the Name of God Amen __ I Nathaniel Holmes of Plimouth in the County of Plimouth & Province of the Massachusets bay in New England Seafareingman Apprehending My Selfe drawing Nigh to Death being in a low State of Body but blessed be God of a sound and Disposeing Mind Do make and Ordain this my last Will and Testament –-

I Commit my immortal Spirit into the Hands of God my Creator Redeemer & Sanctifyer Trusting in the alone Merrits of the Lord Jesus Christ for the pardon of my Sins & Eternal Salvation And my body I Commit to the earth to be decently Buried by my Executor hereafter Named in hope of a Resurrection To immortal life at the last day through the blessed Jesus the First fruits of them that Sleep in him

And as to the disposal of such Temporal Estate as God hath been pleased to give me My will is as followeth—

In the First place I Give & bequeath To my son Ephraim Holmes my Home Stall consisting of about Six acres of land with my Dwelling house Standing thereon and all the Improvements & appurtenances thereof to him his heirs & assigns forever—

                Also I Give and bequeath to my other Children both sons & Daughters and to their heirs and Assigns forever all the rest of my Estate both Real & personal (Excepting Such personal Estate as is hereafter bequeathed or appropriated) to be equally divided among them viz The Children of my son Nathaniel Holmes lately Deceased my Son James Holmes the Children of my Son Barnabas Holmes Deceasd my Son Zephaniah Holmes and my Daughters Bathsheba Delano and Joanna Cook – the Same with what I formerly gave them to be their full Portion.

                Also I Give and bequeath to my son Ephraim all the money That is due to me of the fishing Voyage the summer past with Ebenezer Rider in the Schooner Sea Flower—

                And I do hereby Constitute my said son Ephraim Sole Executor of this my last Testament, And my Will is that all my Just debt and Funeral Charges be paid by my said Executor out of my aforesaid bequeathment unto him – And I do hereby revoke and disanull all wills and Testaments by me heretofore made~

                And In witness of this my last Testament I have hereunto Set My hand & Seal this Sixth day of November 1746

Signed Sealed Published & Declared

as the last will & Testament of the                                                                                                       his

said Nathll. Holmes in presence of us                                                                              Nathaniel  M  Holmes                         (seal)

                Thomas Frink                                                                                                                             mark

                Joseph Bartlett Junr.

                Ichabod Bartlett

 

Probated on 18 Dec. 1746, and proved by Mr. Thomas Frink, Joseph Bartlet Junr. and Ichabod Bartlet.

 

The inventory of the estate of Mr. Nathaniel Holmes, late of Plimouth, deceased, taken by Stephen Churchell, John Harlow, and Joseph Bartlett, dated 29 Dec. 1746, totaled £137.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 10, p. 339-340, 376, from FHL microfilm #0551535.

 

 

Will of Nathaniel Holmes of Plymouth, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1801) *

I Nathaniel Holmes, of Plymouth, in the County, yeoman, being sick of body, but of sound memory, thanks be to God for the same, I do make and declare this for my last will & testament, in manner and form following, that is to say — First I would that all my debts which I of right, I owe, to any person, be paid within a convenient time, after my decease, by my Executor hereafter named. And—

I do give and bequeath unto my well beloved wife, Chloe Holmes, all my estate, both real & personal, after my just debts are paid, during her natural life; and, after her decease, I do give & bequeath unto my son Ebenezer Holmes one half of my Estate; and the other half, I do give and bequeath to my three daughters, in equal shares, that is to say, one sixth part to Elisabeth Nichols wife of Eleazer Nichols, and one sixth part to Rebecca Howard, wife of Ezra Howard, & the other sixth part to Patience Holmes.—In Witness whereof, I have set my hand and seal this 12th of November 1801.—NB. And, I do make, Willard Sears & Thomas Morton junr. Executors to this will.

Signed, in the presence of

        William Holmes ye 2d                                                                                                 Nathaniel Holmes            (seal)

        Samuel Holmes

        Thomas Morton jr.

 

Presented for probate on 8 Feb. 1802 by Willard Sears & Thos. Morton jr., the Executors therein named, and proved by William Holmes ye 2d. & Samuel Holmes, two of the witnesses.

 

Ezekl Morton & Stephen Doten jr. Gentlemen, & John Swift, yeoman, all of Plymouth, were appointed to appraise the estate of Nathl. Holmes, late of Plymouth, yeoman, on 8 Feb. 1802. The Inventory was dated 10 Mar. 1802, and totaled $924.92, including his homestead with the buildings valued at $725, and half of about 50 acres of land valued at $90. Thos. Morton junr., the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 15 Mar. 1802.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 38, pp. 21-22, 65, from FHL microfilm #0550720.

 

 

Will of Peter Holmes of Charlestown and Plymouth, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1866) *

        In the name of God Amen. I Peter Holmes of Charlestown in the County of Middlesex and Commonwealth of Massachusetts being in good bodily health and of sound and disposing mind and memory, calling to mind the frailty and uncertainty of human life, and being desirous of settling my worldly affairs and directing how the estate with which it has pleased God to bless me shall be disposed of after my decease while I have strength and capacity so to do, do make and publish this my last will and testament, hereby revoking and making null and void all other last wills and testaments by me heretofore made.

And first, I commend my immortal being to him who gave it, and my body to the earth to be buried with little expense or ostentation by my executor hereinafter named.

And as to my worldly goods and estate, and all the property real personal and mixed, of which I shall die seized and possessed, or to which I shall be entitled at the time of my decease, I devise, bequeath and dispose thereof in the manner following, to wit.

First. My will is that all my just debts and funeral expenses shall by my Executor hereinafter named be paid out of my estate as soon after my decease as shall by him be found convenient.

Second. I give devise and bequeath to my wife Sarah Holmes all my household furniture, beds and bedding, except what belonged to my first wife; and in the event of the decease of my said wife before my decease, I give and bequeath said furniture beds and bedding to my daughter Mary E. Holmes and the daughter of my said wife Martha W. Reed, to be divided equally between them. It is also my will that in addition to the foregoing bequest to my wife, my executor hereinafter named shall after my decease, faithfully fulfil the terms and provisions then remaining unperformed of a certain contract made and executed by and between me and my said wife before our marriage viz: on the 2d day of December A.D. 1857, and that is this my last will and testament shall in no way contravene or defeat the provisions of said contract.

Third. I give and bequeath to my daughter Mary E. Holmes one thousand dollars to be paid to her in money, and also the furniture, china ware, and silver ware marked E. C. H. all of which were her own mothers’ at her decease.

Fourth. I give and bequeath to Martha W. Reed aforesaid the sum of five hundred dollars to be paid to her in money.

Fifth. I give to my Executor hereinafter named the sum of Six thousand dollars to be held by him in trust for the following purposes to wit, first–to invest, manage and appropriate the same and the income thereof for the payment of one hundred and eighty dollars semi-annually according to and in fulfilment of the contract aforesaid made between me and my said wife before our marriage, and the expenses thereof during the time she may remain my widow—and also I give to my said Executor the further sum of ten thousand dollars to be held by him in trust for the following purposes to wit – first to invest, manage and appropriate the same and the income thereof for the payment of the sum of three hundred dollars semiannually to my said wife during the time she shall remain my widow, and after paying the expenses of such trust, I give and bequeath one third of the residue of the aforesaid Six thousand dollars and ten thousand dollars which shall remain unappropriated to my said wife as aforesaid, to each of my two sons, Stephen C. Holmes and Frederick E. Holmes, and I give and bequeath one third of the residue aforesaid of the said sixteen thousand dollars which shall remain unappropriated as aforesaid, to my executor hereinafter named to be held by him in trust for the following purposes, to wit. first to invest, manage and appropriate the same and the income thereof in the following manner, viz. to pay to said Mary E. Holmes the income, rents, issues and profits thereof after paying the expenses of such trust annually during her natural life, and at her decease to convey and transfer said property to her children if she leaves a child or children at her decease, but if she leaves no child at her decease then to convey and transfer said property as she the said Mary E. shall direct by her last will and testament; and in the absence of any will and testament being left by her directing to whom the said property shall be transferred, then to her heirs and assigns forever.

Sixth. The rest and residue of my estate, real, personal and mixed of which I shall die seized and possessed or to which I shall be entitled at the time of my decease, I give devise and bequeath as follows to wit, one third part thereof to each of my two sons aforesaid their heirs and assigns forever, and one third part thereof to my executor hereinafter named to be held by him in trust for the following purposes, to wit: first to invest, manage and appropriate the same and the income thereof in the following manner, viz. to pay to the said Mary E. Holmes the income, rents, issues and profits thereof after paying the expenses of such trust annually during her natural life, and at her decease to convey and transfer said property to her children if she leaves a child or children at her decease, but if she leaves no child at her decease then to convey and transfer said property as she the said Mary E. shall direct by her last will and testament, and in the absence of any will and testament being left by her directing to whom the said property shall be transferred then to her heirs and assigns forever.

Lastly. I do nominate and appoint Thomas L. Wakefield of Dedham in the County of Norfolk to be the executor of this my last will and testament, and Trustee for the purposed aforesaid, and authorize him to sell and convey and convert into money so much of my estate real and personal as may be requisite to pay the aforesaid bequests, for reinvestment and for the fulfilment of the aforesaid trusts.

        In testimony whereof I the said Peter Holmes have hereunto set my hand and seal, and publish and declare this to be my last will and testament in presence of the witnesses, named below this tenth day of July in the year eighteen hundred and sixty six.

                                                                                                                                                Peter Holmes                    (seal)

Signed Sealed, published and declared by the said Peter Holmes as and for his last will and testament in presence of us, who in his presence and in the presence of each other and at his request have subscribed our names as witnesses thereto.

                                                                                                James M. Barker

                                                                                                Alphonso J. Robinson

                                                                                                Geo. Wm Esterbrook

 

 

Thomas L. Wakefield of Dedham, was granted Letters Testamentary on the estate of Peter Holmes, late of Plymouth, on 8 Nov. 1880, with William Hunt of Boston and Stephen C. Holmes and Mary E. Holmes, both of Plymouth, as sureties.

 

Thomas L. Wakefield, of Dedham, was confirmed as Trustee for the benefit of Mary E. Holmes by the will of Peter Holmes, late of Plymouth, on 8 Nov. 1880, with William Hunt, of Boston, and Stephen C. Holmes and Mary E. Holmes, of Plymouth, as sureties.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 143, p. 476-478, from FHL microfilm #0556649, Vol. 149, p. 214, and Vol. 150, p. 51.

 

 

Will of Phebe Holmes of Plymouth, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1772) *

                                In the Name of God, Amen.

I Phœbe Holmes of Plymouth in the county of Plymouth, in the Massachusetts-Bay in New England widow, knowing it to be apointed for all men once to die and being at present under death-threat’ning circumstances, (tho’ thro’ the goods of God, in perfect mind and memory,) do apoint and ordain this to be my last will and testament. And first of all, I bequeath my soul into the hands of God that gave it, hoping thro’ the merits of Jesus Christ to receive the free pardon of all my sins, and my body I recommend to the earth to be decently buried after my decease by my executor hereafter named, believing by the mighty power of God to receive the same at the general resurrection, and as to my worldly estate wherewith God hath endowed me withall, I give and dispose off in manner following. ~~

1. I give and bequeath to my son Jonathan a lot of land joining to the long-pond, which fell to me in division of the estate of my honrd. father John Churchel deced. Also one fifth part of my movable estate that shall be left undisposed off when my debts are paid.

2. I give to my three grand-children viz Phœbe, Susanna, & William Parsons, one fifth part of my movable estate, which shall be left undisposed off when my debts are paid. –

3. I give to my daughter Desire the wife of John Swift of Sandwich, one fifth part of my movable estate that shall be left undisposed off after my debts are paid. –

4. I give to my son Elkanah a piece of land which I purchased of mr Jonathan Bartlett containing about twelve acres, with the barn and all the privileges belonging to it. Likewise one fifth part of my movable estate that shall be left undisposed off after my debts are paid. Also all the corn and grain that shall be raised on the farm this present year. Also one bed and furniture. ~~

5. I give to my daughter Jane, maiden, that part of my dwelling house which I bought of my son Jonathan Holmes, and that quarter of an acre of land adjoining also I give to my said daughter one bed and furniture, likewise one fifth part of my movable estate which shall be left undisposed off when my debts are paid, and if any other estate of mine can be found not mentioned here, it is my will that it shall be divided into five equal parts as above expressed. ~~

        Finally, I do hereby apoint and ordain my abovesaid son Elkanah executor of this my last will and testament.  —  In testimony whereof I hereunto set my hand and seal this third day of September anno Domini one thousand seven hundred & seventytwo. ~~                her

Signed sealed & delivered in presence                                                                              Phœbe  X  Holmes                            (seal)

of    John Blackmer                                                                                                                             mark

        Joseph Sylvester

        Seth Holmes

 

Presented for probate on 5 Oct. 1772 by Elkanah Holmes, the executor, and proved by John Blackmer and Seth Holmes, two of the witnesses.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 21, p. 194, from FHL microfilm #0550712.

 

 

Will of Phebe Holmes of Carver, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1826) *

In the name of God amen, I Phebe Holmes of Carver in the County of Plymouth Single woman, being weak in body but of sound and perfect mind and memory blessed be Almighty God for the same, do make and publish this my last Will and Testament in manner and form following that is to say,

First, I give and bequeath to my sister Polly Holmes all my wearing apparel –

Second, I give and bequeath to my Brother, Walter Holmes and to my Sister Zilphia, wife of Thomas Hefford, and to the oldest surviving child of my Brother Cornelius Holmes deceased One dollar each, which sums together with my just Debts & Funeral Charges and also Five dollars for the purpose of repairing the Fence around the burial Ground near the south Meeting house in said Carver all which sums and legacies I hereby order and direct my executor whom I shall hereafter name to pay within one year after my decease from the proceeds of the sale of my Personal Estate and my half the Dwelling House in which I now live, and if the same shall be found insufficient to be made out from my Real Estate —

Third and lastly, as to my Real Estate situate in said Carver consisting of one half the Robert Barrows lot of Woodland laying on the first Swamp so called, also one half of a Pine Lot laying on the westerly side of Plymouth Road towards Swan hole, also all my Real Estate wheresoever it may be found together with any remnants of Personal Estate if any shall remain after the payment of the above sums and legacies as aforesaid I give and devise to the good people of Carver of the order or denomination of Congregationalists, who are or shall hereafter become Proprietors of the Central Meeting house in said Carver and to those of the order of Open Communion Calvinists Baptists if such order of Baptists are found residing in said Carver who are or shall hereafter become proprietors in said Central Meeting House, for the support of the preaching of the Gospel exclusively in said religious denominations, to be conducted and used by them as a permanent fund, in aid of supporting the preaching of the Gospel amongst them, I will that after my decease that all my lands and Estate as last described shall immediately come into the possession of those persons of the said Congregational order who are or shall be as aforesaid Proprietors of said Central Meeting House, To be conducted used and occupied by them or their Agent or Committee for their sole benefit as aforesaid, until there shall be an association of persons formed of the description of Baptists aforesaid, and then if ever such association shall be formed in said Town of Carver who shall be Proprietors of said Central Meeting house as aforesaid, and then the said land and Estate shall be conducted by a Joint Committee of said Congregational Association, and said open Communion Baptists association of persons for their mutual benefit in support of the preaching of the Gospel in said dominations forever,

And I do hereby appoint Alvin Vaughan of Carver to be sole Executor of this my last Will and Testament, hereby revoking all former Wills be me made,

In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this twenty seventh day of December in the year of our Lord One thousand eight hundred and twenty six ~~

                                                                                                                                                Phebe Holmes                   (seal)

Signed sealed published and declared

by the abovenamed Phebe Holmes to be her last Will & Testament

in the presence of us who at her request and in her presence have

hereunto subscribed our names as witnesses to the same—

                Zebedee Chandler

                Isaac L. Dunham

                Thomas Hammond

                Samuel Shaw Jun.

 

Note the words “the sale of” in line 16, from top 1st Page, and the words “Congregationalists” in line 27 from top, and also the words “as aforesaid” in line 5, from the bottom, were interlined before the signing and sealing hereof.

 

Probated on 16 Feb. 1829, and proved by Zebedee Chandler and Samuel Shaw Jun, two of the witnesses. Letters Testamentary were granted to Alvan Vaughan of Carver on 16 Feb. 1829.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 66, p. 459-461, from FHL microfilm #0555259.

 

 

Will of Polly Holmes of Carver, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1826) *

Be it remembered that I Polly Holmes of Carver in the County of Plymouth, Housekeeper, considering the uncertainty of this mortal life and being now of sound and perfect mind and memory, blessed be Almighty God for the same, do make and publish this my last Will and Testament in manner and form following (that is to say)

First I give and devise (or bequeath) to my beloved brother Walter Holmes now resident within the State of New York and Zilphia my beloved sister wife of Thomas Hefford now resident in the State of Vermont, all my dwelling house and house lot situate in Carver in the County of Plymouth, Also all my several lots of woodland and Swamp including all my Real Estate to be equally divided between them my said brother Walter Holmes and my said sister Zilphia Hefford or their heirs or assigns to be holden by them forever after my decease.

2d I further give and bequeath to the heirs of my brother Cornelius Holmes, deceased, and to my sister Phoebe Holmes one dollar each to be paid them out of my personal estate by my Executor within six months after my decease, (provided they shall appear to receive the same at his hands.

        And lastly as to all the rest, residue or remainder of my personal estate, goods and chattels of what kind so ever that remain after my just debts and funeral charges shall be paid I give and bequeath to my forementioned brother Walter Holmes and my said sister Zilphia Hefford to be equally divided between them or their heirs.

        And I do hereby appoint Thomas Hammond of Carver in the County of Plymouth, Esquire, sole Executor of this my last Will & Testament hereby revoking all former Wills by me made.

        In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand & seal this twenty second day of December in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and twenty six.

                                                                                                                                                         her

                                                                                                                                                Polly  +  Holmes (seal)

                                                                                                                                                        mark

Signed, sealed, published and declared by the above named

Polly Holmes to be her last Will and Testament in the presence of us

who at her request and in her presence have hereunto subscribed our

names as witnesses to the same

                James Tisdale

                Thomas Hammond jr

                Mary Hammond

 

Probated on 9 Aug. 1830, proved by Thomas Hammond Junior and Mary Hammond, two of the witnesses.

 

Alvan Vaughan, Benjamin Ward and Lothrop Barnes, all of Carver, were appointed to appraise the estate of Polly Holmes, late of Carver, Housekeeper, on 21 May 1830. The Inventory was dated 31 May 1830, the real estate totaled $100.00, and the personal estate totaled $39.91. Thomas Hammond, the administrator, gave his oath to the inventory on 15 Nov. 1830.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 69, pp. 361, 509-510, from FHL microfilm #0555260.

 

 

Will of Richard Holmes of Plymouth, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1820) *

        In the name of God amen I Richard Holmes of Plymouth in the County of Plymouth & Commonwealth of Massachusetts yeoman, being now sick but of sound and disposing mind & memory do make & ordain this to be my last will and Testament –

First of all I commend my Soul to the Mercy of God that gave it & my Body to a decent funeral humbly praying for a glorious Resurrection through Jesus Christ. –

In the next place, I bequeath & dispose of my worldly Estate as follows. —

        First I reserve out of my personal Estate the Sum of three thousand Dollars & the Note I have on Benjamin Bramhall for one hundred & fifty Dollars to be kept in my Executors hands hereafter named for the purposes hereafter particularized. —

        2d. I give & bequeath to my Daughter Abigail Leonard the Wife of William Leonard the Interest & Income of twelve hundred & fifty Dollars of the above Sum & the Income of the above note on Benjamin Bramhall to be paid her annually during the Life of the said William Leonard & at his decease the principal of said two Sums to be paid her being fourteen hundred Dollars in the whole to be paid by my executors hereafter named as her Portion of my Estate. —

        3d. I give and bequeath to my two sons Richard Holmes 3d and Thomas Cooper Holmes the Sum of one hundred Dollars to each one of them to be paid them out of the above Sum – and Whereas I have a Note on my son Thomas C. Holmes for the sum of eight hundred & fifty Dollars, my said son is not to be accountable to my Executors or Heirs for but four hundred & fifty Dollars of said Sum or Note. —

        4th. I give & bequeath to each one of the Children of my Daughter Polly Bradford deceased late Wife of Thomas Bradford, I bequeath to each of said Children the Sum of one hundred Dollars out of the above Sum; said Legacy to be paid to each one of said Children as they arrive at the Age of twenty one years by my Executors hereafter named. —

        5th. I give & bequeath to my two Daughters Sarah Holmes & Jane Holmes to each one of them the Sum of one hundred & fifty Dollars to be paid to each of them in Money or Goods in my House, such as they choose at the appraisement.—

        6th. after my just Debts are paid I give and bequeath all my real Estate in Plymouth, Kingston or elsewhere, & all my personal Estate except what is given as within & above to be equally divided between my seven Children hereafter named viz my two sons Richard Holmes 3d. Thomas C Holmes, Experience Brewster the Wife of Spencer Brewster, Nancy Lowden the Wife of Isaac Lowden, Elizabeth Carver Widow, Sarah Holmes & Jane Holmes to be equally divided between them excepting four hundred Dollars to be deducted from said Elizabeth Carver’s share & added to the other six shares of my last named Children —  I also give and bequeath these last named seven Children, what residue may remain after the within Legacies are paid out of the reserved three thousand Dollars, and my two Sons are to be accountable to my Estate for what they owe me except the four hundred Dollars I have given Thomas – and if my Children bring any accounts against my Estate for Services done it is to come out of they’r share of my Estate –

        Lastly I nominate & appoint my said two Sons Richard Holmes 3d and Thomas C Holmes Executors to this my last will & testament.—

        In Testimony of all which I the said Richard Holmes have hereunto set my hand & Seal this 19th. day of October A.D one thousand eight hundred & twenty 1820

Signed sealed & declared to be his

Last Will & Testament in presence of us

        Rosseter Cotton                                                                                                           Richard Holmes                                (seal)

        Nathan Hayward

        Geo. Bacon

 

Presented for probate on 20 Nov. 1820 by Richard Holmes 2d. and Thomas C Holmes, the Executors therein named, and proved by Rosseter Cotton and Nathan Hayward Esqr., two of the witnesses.

 

Rosseter Cotton Esqr., George Bacon, Mariner, and Henry Jackson, Blacksmith, all of Plymouth, were appointed to appraise the estate of Richard Holmes, late of Plymouth, Yeoman, on 20 Nov. 1820. The inventory was dated 28 Dec. 1820, and totaled $5942.86, his real estate totaled $5386, including his homestead valued at $1600, and several other parcels of land. Richard Holmes and Thomas C Holmes, the Executors, gave their oath to the inventory on 16 Apr. 1821.

 

Rosseter Cotton Esqr., Henry Jackson, Blacksmith, and George Bacon, Mariner, all of Plymouth, were appointed to divide the real estate of Richard Holmes, late of Plymouth, Yeoman, among seven of his children, namely Richard Holmes Jr., the elder son, Thomas Cooper Holmes, Experience Brewster, the wife of Spencer Brewster, Nancy Lowden, the wife of Isaac Lowden, Elizabeth Carver, widow, Sarah Holmes and Jane Holmes, according to the last will and Testament of the said deceased, on 18 Dec. 1820. The division was dated 13 Feb. 1821, and approved on 19 Feb. 1821.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 53, pp. 168-170, 362-366, 370-374, from FHL microfilm #0550907.

 

 

Will of Richard Holmes of Plymouth, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1841) *

Be it known that I Richard Holmes of Plymouth, in the County of Plymouth, yeoman, do make publish and declare this Instrument to be my last will and Testament in manner as follows Viz.

I nominate and appoint my son Richard W. Holmes to be the sole Executor of this my last will and as it may be for the interest of my family that my debts should be paid from & by the sale of portions of my Real Estate notwithstanding my personal Estate may be sufficient for that purpose, I do authorise and empower my said Executor to pay my debts by a sale at his discretion of any part of my real or personal estate (excepting the portions of my house herein after given to my wife during her widowhood) at public or private sale without the necessity of a license or formality of sale by order of law and I do empower him to execute deeds thereof.

I give and bequeath to my beloved wife Mary Holmes the use and improvement of the three back chambers, in my dwelling house where I now reside with the necessary rights of way to and from the same & all privileges in and around said house necessary to her convenient occupation of said rooms for and during all the time she may remain my widow and any sale of my Real Estate by my Executor pursuant to the provision above mentioned shall be with this reservation to my wife for and during the term aforesaid.

After the payment of all my just debts and charges I give and bequeath to my said wife the use income and improvement of all my remaining estate real and personal for and during all the time she shall remain my widow meaning & intending that my said Executor shall manage the same at his discretion for her use and benefit during said term

At the decease or marriage of my said wife, which ever event may first happen, I give devise & bequeath to my three children the said Richard W. Holmes, Ephraim B. Holmes & Mary D. Scudder the wife of Alonzo Scudder & to their heirs & assigns forever all the rest residue & remainder of all the Estate of which I may die seized and possessed. In Witness of which I have hereunto set my hand & seal this thirty first day of May one thousand eight hundred & forty one.

                                                                                                                                                Richard Holmes                                (seal)

Signed sealed published & declared by the said Richard Holmes as his last will & Testament in the presence of us who at his request and in his presence and the presence of each other have hereunto subscribed our names as Witnesses —                                                          John B. Thomas

                                                                                                                                                J. H. Loud

                                                                                                                                                Isaac B. Rich

 

Presented for probate on the second Monday of Aug. 1841 by Richard W. Holmes, the Executor therein named, and proved by John B. Thomas and Jacob H. Loud, two of the witnesses.

 

Ephraim B. Holmes, of Plymouth, was granted administration de bonis non with will annexed of the estate of Richard Holmes, late of Plymouth, on 1 Apr. 1862, with William R. Drew and George F. Weston, of Plymouth, as sureties, the executor named being now deceased.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 83, p. 308-310, from FHL microfilm #0555267, and Vol. 114, p. 58.

 

 

Will of Robert Holmes of Kingston, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1810) *

In the name of God amen I Robert Holmes of Kingston in the County of Plymouth Yeoman considering the Uncertainty of this mortal Life & being of sound mind & memory bless be God for the same do make & publish this my last will and Testament in manner & form following. (that is to say)

        I first give to my two Sons namely Robert & Samuel the whole of my real Estate together with all my out door Moveables to be divided equally between them, reserving only the use & Improvement of the southerly Chamber in my House for my Daughter Charlotte during her remaining unmarried. I also give my two Sons above mentioned all monies due me in equal Shares & order them to pay all my just Debts equally between them. & do further order that they shall provide an honourable Support for my beloved Wife during her Widowhood —

        I next give to my eldest Daughter Mary twenty Dollars to be paid her in twelve months after my decease by her two Brothers above mentioned in equal proportions —

        Next I give unto my Youngest Daughter Charlotte fifty Dollars to be paid her in twelve months after my decease by her two Brothers above mentioned, in equal proportions, I also give unto my Daughter Charlotte one half my indoor moveables together with the Improvement of the Chamber above mentioned with a right to pass to & from the same —

        I further give to my Son Samuel the other half my indoor Moveables.—

        I do hereby appoint my two Sons above mentioned joint Executors of this my last Will and Testament hereby revoking all former Wills by me made.—

        In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand & seal this eighth day of November in the Year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred & ten AD 1810.—

Signed sealed published & declared by the

within named Robert Holmes to be his last

Will & Testament in the presence of us who

have hereunto subscribed our Names as Wit-

nesses in the presence of the Testator                                                                             Robert Holmes                  (seal)

                Charles Holmes

                Wm. Holmes

                Amos Witherell Junr.

 

Presented for probate on 5 Dec. 1817 by Robert Holmes and Samuel Holmes, the Executors therein named, and proved by Charles Holmes Esqr. and Amos Witherell junr., two of the witnesses. No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 49, p. 153-154, from FHL microfilm #0550905.

 

 

Will of Robert Holmes of Kingston, Plymouth County Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1852) *

In the name of God, Amen, I Robert Holmes of Kingston in the County of Plymouth, yeoman considering the uncertainty of this mortal life and being of sound mind and memory, blessed be God for the same, do make and publish this my last will and testament in manner and form as follows that is to say.

I first give to my two sons, viz: Ira Holmes and Robert W Holmes the homestead farm on which I live. I next give to my three sons Ira Holmes, Robert W. Holmes and Samuel Holmes a lot of cedar swamp lying in Halifax, this to be divided in equal shares.  I next give to my daughter Lydia Thomas a wood lot lying in Pembroke near Charles Stetson’s which was bought of Ephraim Tubbs containing between nine and ten acres.  I next give to Robert and Samuel Holmes the lot I bought of Lewis Holmes in Pembroke; two thirds to Samuel and one third to Robert W. Holmes, to be divided in that proportion.  I next give a lot which I bought of Charles Holmes and John Hall about eight acres to Ira Holmes and Robert W. Holmes for the purpose of paying my debts, and if that should not be sufficient I obligate my son Ira Holmes to pay the rest.  I also give my sister Charlotte Holmes the North front room to improve during her life, with the privilege of using the oven.  I also obligate Ira Holmes and Robert W. Holmes to see that she has a comfortable support during her life.  I give to Robert W. Holmes my clock.  I also give him my farming utensils and stock on the farm.  I also give the indoor moveables to Robert & Samuel Holmes equally between them.  I also give Samuel Holmes a piece of salt meadow in Duxbury four fifths of which belong to me called the gotom meadow.

I also appoint my son Ira Holmes Executor of this my last will and testament hereby revoking all former wills by me made.

In witness whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and seal this first day of June in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and fifty two.

Signed, sealed, published and declared by the within named Robert Holmes to be his last will and testament in the presence of us, who have hereunto subscribed our names as witnesses in the presence of the testator

                                                                                                                                                Robert Holmes                  (seal)

Peleg Bryant

John Hall

Francis Simmons

 

Presented for probate on the first Monday of Dec. 1852 by Ira Holmes, the Executor therein named, and proved by Peleg Bryant, John Hall and Francis Simmons, the witnesses.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 91, p. 531-533, from FHL microfilm #0555641.

 

 

Will of Samuel Holmes of Kingston, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1830) *

        In the name of God, Amen. I Samuel Holmes of Kingston in the County of Plymouth, Yeoman, considering the uncertainty of this mortal life and being of sound mind and memory, blessed be God for the same, do make and publish this my last Will and Testament in manner and form following that is to say I first give to my brother Robert Holmes, that half of the farm together with the buildings thereon which my father gave me, Also some woodland in Pembroke which I own with him, Also some Swamp in Hanson and in Halifax which I own in half with him.

        I next give to my sister Charlotte Holmes all the Notes and securities that I have on hand belonging to me at my decease. I likewise give her all the household furniture that belongs to me and articles in the cellar together with my provision that may be on hand, Also three barrels of Corn and two Cows.

        I next give to Oliver Whitten’s two children Addison and Amanda twenty five dollars each to be paid to them by my brother Robert Holmes when they become twenty one Years of Age.

        All money or accounts that may be found due me or on hand I give to my sister Charlotte.

        I also obligate my brother Robert to pay all debts that may come against my estate after my decease.

        I do hereby appoint my brother Robert Holmes, Executor of this my last Will and Testament hereby revoking all former Wills by me made.

        In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand & seal this eighth day of March in the Year of Our Lord One thousand eight hundred & thirty. A.D. 1830.

Signed, sealed, published and declared by the within named Samuel Holmes to be his last Will and Testament in presence of us who have hereunto subscribed our names as witnesses in the presence of the Testator.                                                                                                Samuel Holmes                (seal)

        Amos Withrell

        Melatiah Holmes

        Thomas Johnson

 

Probated on 15 Nov. 1830, and proved by Amos Withrell, Melatiah Holmes and Thomas Johnson, the witnesses. Letters of administration given to Robert Holmes of Kingston, yeoman.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 69, p. 487-488, from FHL microfilm #0555260.

 

 

Will of Samuel D. Holmes of Plymouth, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1861) *

                Be it known that I, Samuel D. Holmes of Plymouth in the County of Plymouth & Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Master mariner, being in feeble health but of sound mind, do make, publish and declare this Instrument to be my last Will and Testament in manner & form following, to wit:

                I revoke all former Wills by me heretofore made. I give & bequeath to my nurse Mrs. Miriam A. Atwood, for her kind attentions to me all my household furniture, beds, bedding & all movables in my dwelling house.

                I give to her husband Jesse R. Atwood the privilege of living in my dwelling-house for six months after my decease & until my estate shall be settled by a sale thereof, or my Son Joseph J. Holmes shall appear to take possession thereof he the said Jesse R. Atwood paying rent at the rate of forty two dollars per annum for such time as he may occupy the same after my decease.

                I give, devise & bequeath all the rest, residue & remainder of my estate real & personal which shall remain after the payments of my debts & the expenses of settling my estate to my Son Joseph J. Holmes if he shall be living at my decease & appear to claim the same, to have & to hold to him his heirs and assigns forever having entire confidence that he will make a distribution of a portion thereof to and among my grandchildren at his discretion.

                But in case my said Son Joseph J. Holmes should not survive me, or should die without claiming said estate or making any conveyance thereof by deed or devise thereof by Will, then & in that case I give, devise & bequeath the same to my grandchildren as follows to wit, three undivided fourth parts thereof to my grand children William D. Simmons, Ferdinand A. Simmons, Frank H. Simmons, & Ella S. Simmons children of my late daughter Harriet in equal shares; and the remaining one fourth part thereof to my grandchildren Elizabeth M. Bradford, Joseph J. Bradford, Johnson Bradford, William B. Bradford and Betsey Bradford children of my late daughter Betsey M. in equal shares. But it is expressly understood that my said Grandchildren are to take nothing by this Will if my Son Joseph J. Holmes survives me & appears to claim said estate or conveys the same by deed or devises the same by Will.

                I nominate & appoint Jacob H. Loud Executor of this Will.

                In witness whereof I have hereto set my hand this fourteenth day of October in the year one thousand eight hundred & sixty one.

                                                                                                                                                Samuel D. Holmes                          (seal)

                Signed, sealed, published & declared by the above named Samuel D. Holmes as & for his last Will & Testament in presence of us, who at his request, in his presence & in the presence of each other have hereto set our names as witnesses.

                                                                                                                                                David Turner

                                                                                                                                                Nelson Thomas\

                                                                                                                                                Sarah J. Merritt

 

Jacob H. Loud, of Plymouth, was granted Letters Testamentary on the estate of Samuel D. Holmes, late of Plymouth, on 2 Dec. 1861, with Timothy Gordon and George G. Dyer as sureties.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 103, p. 407-408, from FHL microfilm #0555646, and Vol. 114, p. 32.

 

 

Will of Sarah Holmes of Kingston, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1829) *

                In the name of God, Amen: I Sarah Holmes of Kingston in the County of Plymouth & Commonwealth of Massachusetts Widow, do make, ordain & declare this Instrument to be my last Will & Testament.

        Imprimis – It is my Will that all my just debts and the charges of my funeral be paid & discharged by my Executrix, herein-after named and appointed out of my Estate, as soon as may conveniently be after my decease.

        Item — I give and devise to my dearly beloved daughter, Huldah Holmes, her heirs & assigns forever all my Estate, real & personal, of whatsoever name or nature which may remain after deducting the above named debts & charges.

        Item — I appoint and make the said Huldah Holmes Executrix of this my last Will and Testament.

                In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this twenty second day of June in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred & twenty nine

                                                                                                                                                Sarah Holmes                   (seal)

        Signed, sealed and declared, by the above named Sarah Holmes to be her last Will & Testament, in presence of us, who, in the presence of the Testator and of each other have hereunto subscribed our names as Witnesses.

        Elkanah Cushman

        Margaret Cushman

        Hosea Brewster –

 

Presented for probate on 13 Apr. 1835 by Huldah Holmes, the Executrix therein named, and proved by Elkanah Cushman, one of the witnesses.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 77, p. 133-134, from FHL microfilm #0555264.

 

 

Will of Sarah Holmes of Charlestown and Plymouth, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1866) *

Know all men by these presents that I Sarah Holmes of Charlestown in the County of Middlesex and Commonwealth of Massachusetts, wife of Peter Holmes of said place, being in good health and of sound and disposing mind and memory do make and publish this my last will and testament, hereby revoking all former wills by me at any time heretofore made.

First. My will is that all my just debts and funeral expenses shall by my executor hereinafter named be paid out of my estate as soon after my decease as shall by him be found convenient.

Second. I give and bequeath to my son William C. B. Reed one Dollar.

Third. I give and bequeath all my real estate situated in Plymouth in the County of Plymouth and Commonwealth aforesaid, and all my furniture, fixtures, beds, bedding, horses, carriages, and other property belonging with, used, employed or connected with said real estate to my husband Peter Holmes to be held by him for and during his natural life, and after his decease I give and bequeath said furniture, beds and bedding to my daughter Martha W. Reed and Mary E. Holmes the daughter of my said husband to be divided between them in equal proportions; and said real estate, fixtures, horses, carriages and other property belonging with, used, employed and connected with said real estate to my executor hereinafter named to be held by him in trust for the following purposes to wit, first to invest, manage, sell and reinvest and appropriate the same and the income thereof in the following manner viz. to pay to said Martha W. Reed and Mary E. Holmes after paying the expenses of said trust, the income, rents, issues and profits thereof annually, during their natural lives, in equal proportions, and at the decease of either of them or both of them, to convey and transfer one half part of said estate or property to the children of either of them at her decease if she leaves children, but if she or either of them leaves no child at her decease, then to convey and transfer such one half part of said estate and property to such person or persons as the said Martha W. or the said Mary E. shall direct by her last will and testament; and in the absence of any will and testament being left by either or both of them directing to whom her or their respective share of said property shall be transferred, then to her or their respective heirs and assigns forever.

Fourth. The rest and residue of my estate real personal and mixed of which I shall die seized and possessed, or to which I shall be entitled at the time of my decease, I give, devise, and bequeath unto my daughter Martha W. Reed.

Lastly. I do nominate and appoint Thomas L. Wakefield of Dedham in the County of Norfolk to be the Executor of this my last will and testament, and Trustee for the purposes aforesaid; and authorize him to sell and convey and convert into money and reinvest or otherwise the real estate and other property to be held by him in trust as aforesaid, and do all things relating thereto requisite to a faithful fulfilment of the aforesaid trust.

        In testimony whereof I the said Sarah Holmes have hereunto set my hand and seal and publish and declare this to be my last will and testament in presence of the witnesses named below, this tenth day of July in the year of our Lord Eighteen hundred and Sixty Six.

                                                                                                                                                Sarah Holmes                   (seal)

Signed, sealed, published and declared by the said Sarah Holmes as and for her last will and testament in presence of us, who in her presence and in the presence of each other and at her request have subscribed our names as witnesses hereto.

                                                                                James M. Barker

                                                                                Alphonso J. Robinson

                                                                                Geo. Wm Estabrook

 

I Peter Holmes husband of the aforesaid Sarah Holmes who has made and executed the foregoing will, hereby consent to her making and executing the same in the manner and form in her said will specified.

        Witness my hand and seal this tenth day of July A.D. 1866.

In presence of                                                                                                                      Peter Holmes                        (seal)

James M. Barker

A. J. Robinson

Geo. Wm Estabrook

 

Thomas L. Wakefield, of Dedham, was granted Letters Testamentary on the estate of Sarah Holmes, late of Plymouth, on 12 May 1879, with Peter Holmes and Ephraim T. Paty, both of Plymouth, as sureties.

 

Thomas L. Wakefield, of Dedham, was confirmed as Trustee for the benefit of Martha W. Hadlock late Martha W. Reed and Mary E. Holmes by the will of Sarah Holmes, late of Plymouth, on 8 Nov. 1880 with William Hunt of Boston and Ephraim T. Paty of Plymouth as sureties.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 143, p. 144-146, from FHL microfilm #0556649, Vol. 149, p. 89, and Vol. 150, p. 52.

 

 

Will of Sarah Holmes of Plymouth, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1868) *

I Sarah Holmes of Plymouth in the County of Plymouth, make publish and declare the following to be my last Will & Testament

First: I give devise and bequeath to Ephraim B. Holmes of said Plymouth, all the property and estate of every description, of which I may die seized and possessed, or to which I may be in any way, entitled, or which I have the right to dispose of by Will to have and to hold the same to him and his heirs and assigns forever:

Second I appoint said Ephraim B. Holmes Executor of this Will=

In witness where of I have hereunto set my hand and seal, this twenty fourth day of February, eighteen hundred and sixty eight

                                                                                                                                                Sarah Holmes                   (seal)

Signed, sealed, published and declared to be her last Will, by said, Sarah Holmes in presence of us, who in her presence, and at her request and in presence, of each other have here-unto set our names as Witnesses

                                                Jno. J. Russell

                                                James Collins

                                                Almira W. Sears

 

Ephraim B. Holmes, of Plymouth, was granted Letters Testamentary on the estate of Sarah Holmes, late of Plymouth, on 11 May 1868, with A. Mason and Thomas Diman, both of Plymouth, as sureties.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 106, p. 141-142, from FHL microfilm #0555647, and Vol. 124, p. 314.

 

 

Will of Seth Holmes of Plymouth, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1804) *

        In the Name of God, & I trust agreeably to his will, I Seth Holmes of Plymouth, in the County of Plymouth, husbandman, being of sound mind, & believing myself near death, after commending my soul to God, do thus dispose of what I may leave behind –

Imprimis. After my just debts, and funeral expences are discharged, ‘tis my will, that my widow shall hold & enjoy one third part of all my possessions, both real & personal, so long as she shall remain my widow.–

        Item—I Give to my sons, Seth Holmes, Stephen Holmes Amasa Holmes, Caleb Holmes & Nathan Holmes in equal shares, all my real estate, after the above deductions, and all my personal estate without doors, to them in fee – but upon the following conditions; that is to say, that they pay, or cause to be paid, by the Executors of this my will, to the children of my daughter Deborah Bartlett, or to her, two hundred dollars in equal shares.~

        Item—That they pay or cause to paid by my Executors two hundred dollars to the children of my daughter Polly Bartlett in equal shares. .

        Item. That they pay, or cause paid by the Executors of this will, two hundred dollars to the children of my daughter Rebecca Bartlett in equal shares. .

        Item—That they pay or cause paid by my Executors to the children of my daughter Silvina Bartlett, two hundred dollars in equal shares. .

        Item—That they pay, or cause paid to my daughter Jerusha, by my Executors, two hundred dollars, as hereafter directed

        Also—That they pay, or cause paid, by my Executors, to Polly Holmes, the daughter of my son Jesse Holmes decd two hundred dollars, when she comes of age.

        Tis further my will, that after the decease of my widow, all the indoor moveables should be equally divided among my daughters, as above named, including my granddaughter Polly Holmes, should she come of age.

        Tis also my will, that the two thirds of the above legacies be paid in one year from my decease, & ye rest at their mother’s decease –

        Tis also my will, that my sons Seth & Stephen Holmes be trustees of what is herein given to my daughter Deborah, or her children, to pay her as she may need, or them when of age.—Be it remembered that ‘tis the true intentions of this my will, that the foregoing legacies, payable to the children of my daughters Polly Bartlett, Rebecca Bartlett, Silvina Bartlett, should be paid to the said Polly, Rebecca & Silvina in person.

        And I do hereby appoint my sons Seth Holmes and Stephen Holmes Executors to this my will.—In Testimony that this is my last will & testament I hereunto Set my hand & Seal February 15th 1804:~

Signed & Delivered

        in presence –                                                                                                                Seth Holmes                                      (seal)

Branch Blackmer

Zackeus Bartlett

Sarah Blackmer

 

Presented for probate on 22 Feb. 1804 by Seth Holmes and Stephen Holmes, the Executors therein named, and proved by Branch Blackmer & Zackeus Bartlett, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Seth Holmes and Stephen Holmes, the before named Executors.

 

Branch Blackmer, Gentleman, Abner Bartlett Esqr. and Andrew Bartlett, Gentleman, all of Plymouth, were appointed to appraise the Estate of Seth Holmes, late of Plymouth, Yeoman, on 22 Feb. 1804. The Inventory of the Estate of Seth Holmes, late of Plymouth was not dated, but totaled $6733.02, including his extensive real estate holdings valued at $5923, of which his homestead estate was valued at $2700. The appraisers gave their oath to the inventory on 12 Mar. 1805, and Seth and Stephen Holmes, the Executors, gave their oath to the inventory on 13 Mar. 1805.

 

Ichabod Morton junr., Abner Bartlett Esqr., and Solomon Finney, all of Plymouth, were appointed to set off one third of the real estate of Seth Holmes, late of Plymouth, to his widow Mary Holmes, as her dower in the estate of her late husband on 2 Mar. 1804. The division was recorded on 14 Aug. 1810, and approved on 18 Aug. 1810.

 

John Gray, of Kingston, Esqr., John Cornish and Thomas Morton junr., both of Plymouth, Gentlemen, were appointed to divide the balance of the real estate of Seth Holmes, late of Plymouth, Yeoman, into four equal shares, saving unto the widow of the deceased her thirds, and to assign to Seth Holmes, Stephen Holmes, Amasa Holmes, and Nathan Holmes each one share, the said Seth, Stephen, Amasa and Nathan having jointly purchased of their brother Caleb Holmes his share therein being one fifth part, on 25 Mar. 1805. The division was dated 18 Apr. 1805, and approved on 30 Apr. 1805.

 

Ichabod Morton, Yeoman, William Clark, Gentleman, and John Blackmer Jr., Yeoman, all of Plymouth, were appointed to divide that part of the real estate of Seth Holmes, late of Plymouth, Yeoman, which was assigned to his widow, Mary Holmes, as her right of dower, among his devisees, Stephen Holmes, Amasa Holmes, Nathan Holmes, and the heirs of Seth Holmes deceased, on 16 May 1825. The division was approved on 17 Oct. 1825, and it mentioned Branch Holmes, for himself and all the other heirs of his father Seth, decd.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 38, p. 517-519, from FHL microfilm #0550720, Vol. 40, p. 363-370, and Vol. 59, p. 471-473.

 

 

Will of Silvanus Holmes of Plymouth, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1820) *

                In the name of God Amen, I Silvanus Holmes of Plymouth in the County of Plymouth & Commonwealth of Massachusetts housewright being of sound and disposing mind and memory do make and ordain this to be my last will & testament – In the first place I commend my soul to the mercy of God, who gave it and my body to a decent burial humbly praying for a glorious resurrection through Jesus Christ – In the first place after my just debts are paid I dispose of my worldly Estate as follows – viz ~~~

First I give and bequeath to Ansel Holmes a minor Son of my Nephew Ansel Holmes deceased my dwelling house, shop and lot of land southerly of the training Green lying adjoining on the southerly side of the old homestead of Seth Harlow deceased – Also I bequeath said Ansel all my working tools – I give and bequeath to Patty Holmes daughter of my said nephew Ansel Holmes deceased all the real Estate I own, which descended to me from my Father & Mother deceased except what I have above given to Ansel Holmes.

I give and bequeath to my relation Susan Churchill wife of Nathaniel Churchill the use and improvement of all my part of a dwelling house and lot of land near Hobshole opposite Willard Sears homestead on the westerly side of Sandwich road for her to improve during her natural live and at her decease I bequeath my part of said house and lot of land to said Susan Churchills Children to be equally divided between them –

                I give and bequeath to Rebecca Morton Wife of Freeman Morton all my household furniture beds & beding to be hers – All the above named persons all of Plymouth aforesaid – I nominate and appoint Benjamin Barnes Executor to this my last Will and testament, signed sealed and declared to be my last will & testament in presence of us this 16th day of November AD. one thousand eight hundred & twenty.

the part of two lines in the bequeath to                                                                                           his

Rebecca Morton was scratched out before signing                                                        Silvanus  X  Holmes           (seal)

                Rosseter Cotton                                                                                                                   mark

                Silvanus Paty

                Nathaniel Harlow

 

To the Hon. Wilkes Wood Esqr. the Judge of the probate of Wills &c in & for the County of Plymouth—

Sir I am appointed Executor of the last Will & Testament of Silvanus Holmes late of Plymouth in said County deceased as it is not convenient for me to accept said Trust I do refuse the same & wish your Honour to appoint an Administrator in my Stead –

                Plymo. Feby. 19th. 1821                                                                                     Benja. Barnes –

 

Presented for probate on 17 Oct. 1821 by one of the friends of the deceased, the Executor therein named having refused, and proved by Rosseter Cotton Esqr. and Silvanus Paty, two of the witnesses, administration with will annexed granted to Benjamin Drew of Plymouth, Gentleman, on 17 Oct. 1821.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Sylvanus Holmes, late of Plymouth, was appraised by Seth Harlow, Ichabod Davie, and Bradford Barnes on 19 Aug. 1822, and totaled $412.20, his real estate valued at $371.25, including his dwelling house and lot valued at $300. Benjamin Drew, the Administrator with will annexed gave his oath to the inventory on 16 Sept. 1822.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 54, p. 189-190, from FHL microfilm #0550908, Vol. 53, p. 328, and Vol. 56, pp. 331, 205.

 

 

Will of Stephen Holmes Jr. of Plymouth, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1833) *

In the name of God, I Stephen Holmes Junior of Plymouth in the County of Plymouth & Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Mariner, being in feeble state of health but of sound mind & memory do make & declare this Instrument to be my last Will & Testament, Viz:

        I give, devise and bequeath all my Estate Real and Personal to my beloved Wife Sarah S. Holmes her heirs and assigns forever.

        To my father Stephen Holmes and to my brothers & sisters I make no pecuniary bequest as what property I possess I derived from my wife and I desire to leave all to her for her maintenance & support

        And I do hereby nominate & appoint my said wife Sarah S. Holmes sole Executrix of this my last Will & Testament.

                In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand & seal this sixteenth day of December in the Year of Our Lord one thousand eight hundred & thirty three.

                                                                                                                                                Stephen Holmes Jr.                         (seal)

Signed, sealed and declared by the above named Stephen Holmes Jr to be his last Will & Testament in presence of us who at his request & in his presence & in presence of each other have hereunto subscribed our names as witnesses

        Israel Clark

        Charles Peterson

        Cromwell Holmes

 

Presented for probate on 20 Jan. 1834, and proved by Israel Clark, Charles Peterson and Cromwell Holmes, the witnesses. Letters Testamentary were granted to Sarah S. Holmes, of Plymouth, widow, on 20 Jan. 1834.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 76, p. 32-34, from FHL microfilm #0555263.

 

 

Will of Thomas Holmes of Middleborough, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1733) *

In the Name of God Amen I Thomas Holmes of ye Town of Middleborough in the County of Plymouth in New-England being weak of Body but of a sound & perfect Mind & Memory Praise be to Almighty God for it Do Make & Ordain this my present last Will & Testament in Manner & form following that is to Say First & Principally I Commit & Commend my Soul into the hands of Almighty God and my Body to the Earth to be decently buried at ye Discretion of my Executrix hereafter named And as for my Worldly Estate I Give & Dispose thereof as followeth – First I Will that all my Debts and Funeral Charges shall be paid & discharged – Itm I Give to my beloved Wife Mary Holmes that part of Lands that fell to me which was my Brother Benjamin Holmes and that piece of meadow that I bought of James Cobb to her & her Heirs and Assigns forever And also all my Moveable Estate within doors & without to her & her Heirs & assigns forever And the Improvemt of all my Estate so long as She remains my Widow  Itm I Give to my Daughter Experience Holmes my Homestead and also that piece of Land that I bought of David Miller together with all the Buildings thereon to her & her Heirs & assigns forever And I do by this my last Will & Testament Ordain appoint & Constitute my Wife Mary Holmes sole Executrix of this my last Will & Testament as Witness hereof I the sd Thomas Holmes have hereunto Set my hand & Seal this Eighth day of September in ye Year of Our Lord One thousand Seven hundred & thirty three—

Signed Sealed Published &                                                                                                Thomas Holmes   (seal)

Deliverd In Presence of us

Ebenezer Finney

Jane Finney

James Cob

Plymo. Decr. 20:1733 – Ebenezer Finney Jane Finney & James Cob appeared & made oath that they Saw Thomas Holmes abovenamed Sign Seal & heard him declare ye Abovewritten to be his last Will & Testament And that they at the Same time in the Presence of ye Testator Set to their hands as Witnesses, And that he at ye Same time according to the best of their Observation was of Sound & Disposing Mind & Memory

                                                                                                                                                Before Isaac Winslow Judge of Probate —

 

The Inventory of the real & personal Estate of Thomas Holmes, late of Middleborough, was appraised by John Bennett, James Soul, and Francis Miller on 27 Feb. 1733/34, not totaled, but his Homestead being about 40 acres was valued at £400, land he bought of David Miller was valued at £50, land he bought of Benjamin Holmes was valued at £50, and 10 acres of meadow in the Upper Meadow valued at £40. Mary Holmes, the Executrix, gave her oath to the inventory on 15 Mar. 1733/34, and on 26 Apr. 1734 necessaries were set out to Mary Holmes, widow of Thomas Holmes, in the amount of £37.01.0.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 6, pp. 425-426, 444-446, from FHL microfilm #0550512.

 

 

Will of Thomas C. Holmes of Kingston, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1852) *

                Be it remembered that I Thomas C. Holmes of Kingston in the County of Plymouth, Commonwealth of Massachusetts, being of sound and disposing mind and memory but in consideration of the uncertainty of life do think it best to dispose of my estate both Real and Personal and do make and publish this my last Will and Testament in the following manner.

First. I give and bequeath to my wife Sarah W. Holmes the use and improvement during her natural life of the following Real Estate, viz. One undivided half of that part of my homestead lying above the road or highway & between the said highway and the piece of land that I sold to the owners of the Furnace with one divided half of the House and buildings thereon, except so much thereof as is hereafter described and given to my son Thomas C. Holmes Jr. for a shop lot, I also give to my wife the one undivided half of all the household Furniture, Beds, Bedding and other articles contained in the House. I also give and bequeath to my aforesaid wife the use and improvement during her life of one undivided half of a certain lot of woodland known as the Cotton lot being the same lot the descended to me from my uncle Thomas Cooper.

2nd I give and bequeath to my daughter Sarah D. Holmes one half of that portion of my homestead lying above the highway & between the said highway and the land that I sold to the owners of the Furnace with one undivided half of the House and buildings thereon, excepting so much thereof as is hereafter described & conveyed to my son Thomas C. Holmes Jr. for a shop lot, I also give to my said daughter Sarah one undivided half of all the household furniture, Beds Bedding and other articles in the said house  I also give and bequeath to my said daughter Sarah one undivided half of a certain lot of woodland known as the Cotton lot being the same that descended to me from my uncle Thomas Cooper.

Thirdly. I give and bequeath to my son Thomas C. Holmes Jr. the lot upon which his shop stands bounded as follows~~ beginning at apoint Easterly from said shop on the highway and running in a paralel line with the South easterly side of said building & Six feet distant from the same and running in said line until it intersects a line drawn paralel with the Northwesterly side of said shop & six feet distant from the same & then running in said line ten feet until it comes to a stake & from thence in a N. Westerly direction about   feet to a post in the fence on Smelt brook lane said post being the sixth post from the Northerly corner of said shop & from thence by said land and the highway to the bounds first mentioned. I also give & bequeath to my son Thomas C. Holmes Jr. all the land lying below the highway and adjoining & bounded on the Northwesterly side by his house lot and on the North & Easterly by the Old Colony Rail Road and on the Southerly side by the land of B. Delano & on the Westerly side by the highway. I also give to my said son Thomas a certain piece of wood land & old field lying above and adjoining the piece of land that I sold to David Lucas & on the North westerly side of the road leading to Smelt pond & is the same that descended to me from my uncle Thomas Cooper. I also give to my said Son Thomas a certain piece of wood land lying on the southerly side of the Smelt pond road containing about 18 acres & bounded as follows Westerly & Northerly by said Road & Northerly & Easterly by the land of B. Delano & otherwise by the land of the heirs of Hezekiah Ripley and land of Joseph Ripley.

Fourthly. I give & bequeath to my son Richard Holmes all the land I own in the Nook both Salt Meadow and pasture land also a certain lot of woodland near Smelt pond containing 30 acres more or less, being the same lot purchased by my uncle Thomas Cooper of Le Baron. I also give to my said son Richard all my right and interest in & to the land lying on the South side of the Smelt pond land & above and adjoining the land I sold to the owners of the Furnace. I also give to my said Son Richard one undivided half of a certain 4 acre lot of wood land owned in common with Isaac Brewster.

Fifthly. I give & bequeath to my wife Sarah W. Holmes the sum of Three Thousand dollars the same to be paid to her by my executor within six months from the proving of my will.

Sixthly. It is my will & I do order that the remainder of my personal property of whatever nature shall be equally divided between my three children, viz. Sarah D. Holmes, Thomas C. Holmes & Richard Holmes and I do further order that if any of my afore named children shall fetch any bills or demands against my estate, that the amount of such demand shall be deducted from such child’s share of my aforenamed personal estate.

Finally. I hereby constitute and appoint my son Thomas C. Holmes Jr. my sole Executor of this my last Will and Testament.

                In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this third day of December in the year of our Lord One Thousand Eight hundred and fifty two.

                                                                                                                                                Thomas C. Holmes                          (seal)

        Signed, sealed published and declared by the within named Thomas C. Holmes to be his last Will & testament in presence of us who at his request & in his presence & in presence of each other have hereunto set our names as witnesses to the same – the words “my” & “thereof” being interlined before signing.

        Isaac Brewster

        Thos. Cushman

        Edwin Cushman

 

Presented for probate on the third Monday of Jan. 1853 by Thomas C. Holmes, the Executor therein named, and proved by Isaac Brewster, one of the witnesses.

 

 

Will of William Holmes of Plymouth, Plymouth County, Commonweath of Massachusetts (1852) *

Know all men by these presents, that I William Holmes of Chiltonville, town of Plymouth, County of Plymouth and State of Massachusetts; Yeoman being of sound disposing mind and memory, do make and publish this my last will and testament.

  First.  I give and bequeath to my daughter Betsey Swift one dollar, and to my grandson William H. Nye one dollar.

  Second.  I give and devise to my beloved wife Sarah Holmes all my personal property and the improvement of all my Real Estate as long as she shall remain unmarried and my widow, after which my Real Estate shall descend to my legal heirs at law.

  Third.  I ordain and appoint my wife Sarah Holmes as Executrix of this my last will and testament.

  In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and seal, and publish and declare this to be my last will and testament in the presence of the witnesses named below this 11th day of August in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and fifty two.

                                                                                                                                                William Holmes                                (seal)

Signed, sealed, published and declared by the said William Holmes and for his last will and testament in presence of us who in his presence, and in the presence of each other and at his request have hereunto subscribed our names as witnesses.

                                                                                                                                                George Bramhall Jr.

                                                                                                                                                Ephraim Finney 2d

                                                                                                                                                Susan Finney

 

To the Judge of Probate for the County of Plymouth,

The undersigned who is named in the Will of William

Holmes late of Plymouth in said County, deceased, as

Executor thereof, hereby declines accepting said trust.

Plymouth Dec. 1, 1852

                                                                Sarah Holmes

 

To the Judge of Probate for the County of Plymouth.

        I request that Mr. Ephraim Finney 2d may be

appointed Admr with the Will annexed on the

Estate of William Holmes late of Plymouth

in said County decd.

Plymouth Dec 1, 1852                        Sarah Holmes

 

Presented for probate on the first Monday of Dec. 1852 by Sarah Holmes, the Executor therein named, and proved by George Bramhall Jr. and Ephraim Finney 2d, two of the witnesses.

 

Ephraim Finney 2d was granted Administration with Will annexed of the estate of William Holmes, late of Plymouth, yeoman, on 6 Dec. 1852, with George Bramhall Jun., of Plymouth, and Thomas S. Nye, of Wareham, as sureties.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 94, p. 545-546, and Probate Docket #10611.

 

 

Will of William Holmes of Marshfield, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1859) *

                Be it remembered, that I, William Holmes, of Marshfield, in the County of Plymouth and Commonwealth of Massachusetts, being at this time of sound, disposing mind and memory, (thanks be to the Almighty for the favor,) yet duly considering the uncertainty of my existence in this life, do think proper to make this my last Will and Testament, in manner and form following, viz:

                Item 1st. It is my mind and Will, that my Executor hereafter named, cause all my just debts, and the expenses arising from the settlement of my Estate to be paid within one year from my decease.

                Item 2d  I give and bequeath to my beloved wife Susan Holmes, the use & improvement of all my Estate (both Real & Personal) which remains after paying all my just debts to her during her natural life, she providing and maintaining from said improvement, (during their minority,) the children which I may leave that are not of lawful age, and should the improvement of my Estate prove insufficient therefor she is at liberty, and I hereby authorize the disposing of so much of the Estate as may be required to support and maintain herself and said minor child or children, as to carry out my mind and Will as herein expressed & intended & no farther.

                Item 3d  I give & bequeath to each of my surviving children, an equal share of all that may remain of my estate, after the improvement by said Wife as aforesaid, shall have ceased, to them, and each of them, their heirs and assigns forever.

                Item 4th  And lastly I nominate and appoint my Son Albert Holmes, sole Executor of this my last Will and Testament.

                In testimony whereof, I, the said William Holmes, have this 5th day of December, one thousand eight hundred and fifty nine, (1859) hereunto subscribed my name and affixed my seal.

                                                                                                                                                William Holmes                                (seal)

                In presence of us, who by his request, and in his presence, and in the presence of each other have subscribed our names as Witnesses, the date above written.

                                                                                                                                                George Leonard

                                                                                                                                                Wales Rogers

                                                                                                                                                Zenas T. Ewell

 

Presented for probate on the first Tuesday of June 1860 by Albert Holmes, the Executor therein named, and proved by George Leonard and Wales Rogers, two of the witnesses.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of William Holmes, late of Marshfield, not dated, was appraised by Wales Rogers, Nathl. Jennings, and George Leonard, his homestead of 20 acres of land with the buildings valued at $1000, and his personal estate totaled $242.91. Albert Holmes, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on the first Tuesday of June 1860.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 102, p. 209-210, from FHL microfilm #0555645.

 

 

Will of Henry Homes of Middleborough, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1845) *

                In the name of God, Amen, I Henry Homes, now of Middleborough, in the County of Plymouth, and Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Gentleman, being of sound and disposing mind, and memory, but considering my frailty and mortality, do make and ordain this writing to be my last will and testament, and do hereby revoke all preceding wills and testaments by me executed.

                First, I commit my immortal soul to him who created it, trusting in the atonement made for the sins of a lost world by the Lord Jesus Christ, and renouncing all dependence upon my own works for justification before God.

                My body I commit to the earth, there to rest, in hope of a glorious resurrection

                In regard to the temporal estate, which a kind Providence still commits to my trust, I dispose of it in the following manner

                I order and direct, that all my just debts, and funeral expenses be paid by my executrix, hereinafter named, as soon as conveniently may be after my decease; and I then give the sum of ten thousand dollars as a legacy to my wife Isabella Homes, to be paid her in full from my estates real and personal, before the payment of the other legacies hereinafter mentioned.

                I give and bequeath to my Children as follows; to my son Henry A. Homes the sum of One Thousand Dollars, – to my daughter Miranda S. Homes, wife of George F. Homes, of Boston, the sum of six hundred dollars, – to my son William Homes, the sum of Six hundred dollars, – to my son Frederic B. Homes, the sum of One Thousand dollars, – to my son Francis Homes, the sum of Two thousand dollars, – and to my daughter Mary L. Homes, the sum of fifteen hundred dollars.

                As to my daughters, Elisabeth Washburn, wife of Philander Washburn, of said Middleborough, and Dorcas F. Bigelow, wife of the Rev. Asahel Bigelow, of Walpole, in the County of Norfolk, and Commonwealth aforesaid, – it is my will that they receive no more from my estate, I having advanced to each of my said daughters the sum of Twenty two hundred and fifty dollars.

                I give and bequeath to my sister Rebeca Homes, the sum of One hundred and eight dollars per. Annum, and to my brother John Homes the sum of seventy two dollars per annum, during their natural lives, to be paid them by my Executrix, in such manner and at such times, as shall best suit their mutual convenience.

                I give and bequeath unto my brother Nathaniel B. Homes, the sum of two hundred and fifty dollars.

                These legacies are to be paid as aforesaid, after payment of my debts, funeral expenses, and the aforesaid legacy, of ten thousand dollars to my wife; – and are to be paid pro rata, if after payment of said debts, expenses and legacy of ten thousand dollars, there should not be sufficient in my estate to pay all the last named legacies in full.

                All the rest, residue, and remainder of my estate, real and personal, (my debts, legacies and funeral expenses thereout paid,) I give and devise unto my beloved wife, Isabella Homes, to have and to hold the same to her, her heirs and assigns forever.

                And I do hereby appoint my said wife, Isabella Homes, the Sole Executrix of this my last will and testament.

                And I do hereby authorize and empower my said Executrix to sell, dispose of, and convey, any and all of my real Estate, in such manner, and at such prices, as she may see fit; – and her deed thereof shall be effectual to pass such real estate to purchasers in the most ample manner, and wholly free and exempt them from all liability as to the application of the purchase money.

                And in Case, upon full investigation of my affairs, my estates should be ascertained, after payment of all debts and funeral expenses, to be of the value of twenty five thousand dollars, – In such event, I do further give an annuity of twenty five dollars to my brother John Homes, and the like amount to my sister Rebecca Homes, to be paid to each of them by my said Executrix during the natural life of each, in addition to the sum to be given them respectively as aforesaid: and I do also, in the event as aforesaid, bequeath to my brother Nathaniel B. Holmes, a legacy of one hundred dollars, in addition to the sum herein before given to him.

                And whereas it may be, in the inscrutable ways of an all wise Providence, that I shall survive my beloved wife, and I am desirous of providing for such an emergency, I do, therefore, in such event, order, decree, and will, as follows:

                First, I appoint my son in law, George F. Homes of Boston the Executor of this my last will and testament: –

                Second, I give, devise, and bequeath, all my estate, real and personal, unto the said George F. Homes, his heirs and assigns, to hold upon the following trusts: —

first, to pay all my debts and funeral expenses as soon as conveniently may be, after my decease: –

second, to pay the legacies herein before made to my children and brother Nathaniel B. as soon as my said Executor and trustee shall find the same convenient:

third, to invest, immediately after my decease, in such manner as said trustee shall deem best, the sum of Four Thousand dollars, the net income of which, said trustee shall pay, – five twelfths thereof to my brother John Homes, and seven twelfths thereof to sister Rebecca Homes, during the natural life of each, – said payments to be at least as often as semi-annual: –

fourth, to pay the residue of my estate and the proceeds thereof to my six children hereinbefore first named, and to the lawful issue of any of them deceased, by right of representation, at such times and in such manner as the said trustee shall think proper, in equal shares:

fifth, upon the death of either the said John Homes, or the said Rebecca Homes, to pay the proportion of the income, to which the deceased brother or sister shall be entitled as aforesaid, to my six children herein before first mentioned, and to the lawful issue of any of them deceased, by right of representation, in equal shares: –

Sixth, Upon the death of both said John Homes and Rebecca Homes, to pay the said sum, to be invested as aforesaid, to my children, and to the lawful issue of any of them deceased, by right of representation, in equal shares: –

                And I do hereby empower, and authorise the said George F. Homes, for any of the above purposes, to sell and convey in fee simple all or any of my real estate, at such times, and in such manner, and upon such terms, as he shall judge prudent; and his deed thereof shall be effectual to pass such real estate to purchasers, in the most ample manner, and wholly free and exempt them from all liability as to the application of the purchase money.

                In testimony whereof, I, the said Henry Homes have hereunto set my hand and seal, this twenty fifth day of August, in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and forty five

                                                                                                                                                Henry Homes                    (seal)

                Signed, sealed, published and declared by the said Henry Homes, the testator, as and for his last will and testament (he being then of sound and disposing mind and memory) in presence of us, who at his request, and in his presence, and in the presence of each other, have hereunto subscribed out names as witnesses, seven words on the second page being interlined, before execution.

                                                                                                                                                Ebenr Nelson

                                                                                                                                                Alfred Wood, Jr.

                                                                                                                                                Sidney Tucker

 

Presented for probate on the first Monday of December 1845 by Isabella Homes, the Executor therein named, and proved by Ebenezer Nelson, Alfred Wood Jr. and Sidney Tucker, the witnesses.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 87, p. 459-463, from FHL microfilm #0555638.

 

 

Will of Elizabeth Hooper of Bridgewater, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1742) *

In the Name of God, amen, March 9: 1742. I Elizabeth Hooper of Bridgwater in the County of Plymouth in the Province of the Massachusets bay in New England, widdow being now of perfect Disposeing mind and Memory thanks be Given to the Great God, yet calling to mind the Mortallity of My body, and knowing that it is Appointed for all men Once to die, do make and ordain this my last will & Testamt. i.e. principally and first of all I Give and recommend my Soul into the hands of that God who gave it and my body I recommend to the Earth to be buried with Christian Decent burial at the Discretion of my Executor hereafter named Nothing Doubting but at the Resurrection I Shall receive the same again by the power of allmighty God and as touching Such worldly Estate Wherewith it hath pleased God to bless me in this life, I Give Demise and dispose of the same in the following manner and form that is to say.

1. It is my will that all my Debts and funeral Charges be well & timely paid in Convenient time after my Decease

2. I Give and bequeath unto my Well beloved son John Hooper One Yoake of Stears, now About three years old, a Colt mare about two years old, a Gun that was his Fathers, and the best Suit of Cloaths that was his Fathers, and his Fathers Great Coat, and his Fathers Sadle, and all my Meat Tubbs, to be deliverd to him, at twenty years of age.

3. I Give and bequeath unto my Well beloved son Winslow Hooper One suit of Cloaths, that was his fathers, One heifer that is now About two year old and ten pounds in money or Good passable bills of Creditt of the old Currencey, and half a Cross cut saw, and half a Logg Chain, with all the Iron Utensils that belong to the farm, and a great Iron pot, all to be Deliverd to him att the age of twenty years

4. I Give and bequeath To my Well beloved son Hezekiah Hooper Sixty pounds in money or Good passable bills of Creditt of the old Currencey to be paid to him at the Age of twenty One years –

5. I Give and bequeath unto my well beloved son Joseph Hooper Sixty pounds in money or Good passable bills of Creditt of the old Currencey to be paid to him at the age of twenty one years.

6. I Give and bequeath unto my well beloved Daughter Rebecca Hooper, all that household Stuff which I had when first married to John Hooper Deceas’d, with two hitchels a pair of Andirons a pr. of Worsted Combes to be deliverd to her at the age of Eighteen years.

7. I Give and bequeath unto my Wellbeloved son Benjamin Hooper all the Remaining part of my Moveable Estate Not above disposed of, with thirty pounds in money, of the old Currencey & the Intiest of One hundred & twenty pounds, old Currencey, till he arives to ye. Age of twelve years, all that Remains of which I Now Give him his Education being paid for to be deliverd paid to him at ye. age of twenty One years –

Finally I appoint and ordain my well beloved brother Joseph Packard, Sole Executor of this my last will and Testament & I do hereby utterly disallow and revoke all other wills before this time by me made holding, Ratyfieing & Confirming this & no other to be my last will & testament in Witness Where of I have hereunto set my hand & Seal the day & year above written –

Signed Sealed published pronounced & Declared by the sd. Elizabeth Hooper as her last will & Testament in the presence of us the Subscribers –

Daniel Hutson                                                                                                                      Elizabeth Hooper                            (seal)

Isaac Lazell

William Hudson

 

Probated on 13 July 1744, and proved by Daniel Hudson and William Hudson, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Joseph Packard, of Bridgwater, Yeoman, the Executor, on 13 July 1744.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Mrs. Elizabeth Hooper widdow, Late of Bridgwater, was appraised by Daniel Hudson, Josiah Hayward, and William Hooper on 20 July 1744, but not totaled, no real estate. Joseph Packard, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 6 Aug. 1744.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 9, pp. 257-259, 327-328, from FHL microfilm #0551533.

 

 

Will of Hezekiah Hooper of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1805) *

        In the name of God amen. I Hezekiah Hooper of Bridgwater in the the County of Plymouth Gentleman being of a sound & disposing Mind and Memory do make this my last will & Testament, & in the first place I recommend my Soul to the hands of God, who gave it, trusting in the Merits of his Son Jesus Christ, & my Body I recommend to be buried with decent Christian Burial at the discretion of my Executors hereafter named – and with respect to my worldly Estate both Real & personal I dispose of the same in Manner following – viz —

                Imprimis I give & bequeath to my beloved Wife Hannah Hooper fifteen Dollars for the purpose of procuring mourning Apparel, her Support after my Decease being already provided for by obligations & writings signed previous to Marriage –

                Item I give & bequeath to my Daughter Elizabeth Conant the Wife of Benjamin Conant three fourth parts of all my household Furniture, excepting my Clock, Desk & three Silver Table Spoons, also I give her two hundred & two Dollars & fifty Cents to be indorsed in part payment of the principal of a Note signed by Benjamin Conant payable to me, I also give her all the Real Estate I own, possess or am seized of in the Town of Turner; I also give her one Silver Table Spoon, the above Bequests to her, her Heirs & Assigns forever. —

                Item I give & bequeath to my two Sons, Winslow Hooper & Joseph Hooper all my Estate both Real & personal not already disposed of, except my right & Interest in the Dwelling house in which I live, my Clock & Desk & remaining fourth part of my household Furniture, to be equal divided between them to be to them their Heirs & assigns forever, they paying all my just debts funeral Charges & Legacies. —

                Item I give & bequeath to my Son Joseph Hooper my right, Title & Interest in the Dwelling house in which I live, my clock, Desk & remaining fourth part of my household Furniture, to him his Heirs & assigns forever. —

                Item I further give to my Daughter Elizabeth Conant all the Interest that has accrued or shall accrue at my decease on the aforementioned Note of hand signed by Benjamin Conant —

                Item I do hereby constitute & appoint my two Sons Winslow Hooper & Joseph Hooper joint Executors of this my last Will & Testament —

                Ratifying & confirming this to be my last Will & Testament & disallowing all Wills by me heretofore made, in confirmation whereof I have hereunto set my hand & Seal the nineteenth day of December in the year of our Lord one Thousand eight hundred and five —

Signed sealed published & declared by the said Hezekiah Hooper

to be his last Will & Testament in presence of us                                                         Hezekiah Hooper                             (seal)

                Beza Hayward

                John H Mitchell

                Caleb Mitchell

 

Presented for probate on 6 April 1813 by Winslow Hooper and Joseph Hooper, the Executors therein named, and proved by Beza Hayward Esqr. and Caleb Mitchell, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Winslow Hooper and Joseph Hooper, the before named Executors.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 44, p. 513-514, from FHL microfilm #0550903.

 

 

Will of James Hooper of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Massachusetts Bay (1784) *

   In the Name of God Amen this thirteenth day of March in the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred & Eighty four, I James Hooper of Bridgwater in the County of Plymouth being somewhat poorly in body, knowing that it is appointed for all men once to die, do make and ordain this my Last will & testament I being in perfect mind and memory, that is to say principally and first of all I Give and Recommend my Soul into the hands of almighty God that Gave it and my body I Recommend to the Earth to be buried at the discretion of my executor, believing at the Resurrection I shall Recieve it again by the mighty power of God and as touching my worldly Estate wherewith God has been pleased to bless me in this Life, I Give and dispose of in the following manner & form

I Give and bequeath to my beloved Son Levi Hooper, twenty two acres of Land which I bought of David Orcutt, Lying between the Lands, Gershom Conant and Elijah Snow, and all my tools and utensills for Carpentry or Joinery or foot wheel making business, and my wearing apparell, even to my Sleeve buttons and Shoe buckles.~

I Give to my beloved Son James Hooper my Homestead which I bought of John Woods with all my out door moveables – I Give to my beloved Daughter Abiel Pratt my Bed & Bedstead & Bed-Cloathing & Six Sheep, as touching the Remainder of my Estate not yet disposed of, my will is that all my just Debts should be paid out of the same by my Executor, that is to say, a piece of Land Lying in tickticutt of nine or ten acres, and two Lots of Cedar Swamp which I bought of Timothy Edson & Joseph Carver, together with my Quick stock Goods or Chattells–and furthermore after my debts are paid & all necessary Charges arising to my Executor for Settling sd. Estate shall be paid, my will is that the Remainder of sd Estate shall be equally divided to my two daughters that is to Abiel Pratt & Molly Perkins–and I do hereby Constitute make & ordain James Hooper junr. my Son, my Sole Executor of this my Last will & testament and I do hereby utterly disallow Revoke & disannul all & every Other testament, wills, Legacies & bequests & Executors by me in any ways before named willed & bequeathed Ratifying and Confirming this and no Other to be my Last will & testament – In Witness whereof I have hereunto Set my hand and Seal the day and year above written –.

Signed Sealed published, pronounced and

declared by sd. James Hooper as his Last will &                                                           James Hooper                   (seal)

testament in the presence of us

        Asa Washburn

        Seth Keith

        Joseph Ames junr

 

Presented for probate on 6 Sept. 1784 by James Hooper, the Executor therein named, and proved by Asa Washburn and Seth Keith, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted unto James Hooper, the before named Executor.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 29, p. 192-193, from FHL microfilm #0550715.

 

 

Will of John Hooper of Bridgewater, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1741) *

In the Name of God Amen, The thirty first day of July 1741.

I Jno. Hooper of Bridgwater in the County of Plymouth in the province of the Massachusets bay in New England being weak feeble in body but of a sound disposeing mind & Memory Thanks be given to the God. Calling to mind, the Mortallity of my body and knowing that it is appointed for all men Once to die, do make and Ordain this my last Will & Testamt. that is to say principally and first of all I Give and Recommend my Soul unto ye hands of that God who Gave it and my body & Recommend to ye Earth to be buried with Christian decent burial at ye Discretion of my Executrix here after named Nothing doubting but at ye Generall Resurrection I Shall Receive ye same again by the Allmighty power of God And as touching such worldly Estate wherewith it hath Pleased God to bless me in this life I give demise & dispose of ye Same in ye following manner and form that is to Say—

1  1st. It is my Will that all my debts & funerall Charges be well & truly paid in Convenient time after my decease.—

2  2ly. I give & bequeath unto my Well beloved wife Elizabeth, all my moveable Estate of Every sort both within Doors & without also ye improvement of my home farme, dureing her widowhood, all ye improvement of it till my Son John Comes to ye age of One & twenty years, and all ye. improvement of that Estate I have below given to my well beloved Son Winslow, till he comes to ye age of One & twenty years together with a Certain Moletto Servant, by name Betty Burton till her time of Service is Expird.

3  3ly. I give & bequeath to my Well beloved Son John, all my home farme where I now dwell & half a Six Acre lott, not far from ye Great River, which I bought of Benja Pratt of Bridgwater together with that parcell of land part meadow part upland which I bought of Daniel Allden of Bridgwater lying upon ye South side of Great river which is not far from Deacon Alldens~ Tis further my will I order and appoint that my well beloved son John pay the following legacies One hundred pounds to my well beloved Son Hezekiah, One hundred pounds to my well beloved Son Joseph, One hundred pounds to my wellbeloved Son Benjamin as they Successively Arrive at ye age of One & twenty years.

4  4ly. I give and bequeath to my Well beloved Son Winslow all that tract of land which I bought of John Ripley deceasd, not far from South brook, and half a Six Acre Lott not far from ye Great river which I bought of Benja Pratt of Bridgwater together with all that meadow and meadowland which I bought of Joseph Latham of Bridgwater lying upon Sacoqoutucket[?] River Not far from Webber pond and tis further my Will I Order & Appoint that my well beloved Son Winslow, pay to my daughter Rebecca hereaftermentioned One hundred pound when She Comes to ye Age of Eighteen years—

5  5ly. I give & bequeath to my well beloved Son Hezekiah One hundred pounds

6  6ly. I give & bequeath to my well beloved Son Joseph One hundred pounds

7  7ly. I give & bequeath to my well beloved Son Benjamin One hundred pounds.

8ly I give & Bequeath to my Well beloved Daughter Rebecca One hundred pounds.

Finally I Constitute & Appoint my Well beloved wife Elisabeth Sole Executrix of this my last will & Testament and do hereby Ratyfie hold & Confirm this and no other to be my last Will and Testament and disallow all other wills before this time by me made In Witness whereof I have here unto set my hand and Seal ye. day & Year above written.

Signd Sealed Publishd pronouncd                                                                                   John Hooper                     (seal)

& Declard by the sd. Jno. Hooper as

his last Will & Testaments in the

presence of us the Subscribers

Daniel Hudson

Hezekiah Hayward

William Hudson

 

Proved on 25 Jan. 1741[/42] by Daniel Hudson, Hezekiah Hayward and William Hudson, the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Elizabeth Hooper of Bridgwater, widdow Executrix, on 25 Jan. 1741[/42].

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 8, p. 476-477, from FHL microfilm #0551531.

 

 

Will of Susan C. Hooper of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1839) *

                Know all men by these presents that I Susan C. Hooper of Bridgewater in the County of Plymouth and Commonwealth of Massachusetts Singlewoman being of sound mind and memory do make ordain and establish this my last will and Testament in manner and form as follows viz

        I give and bequeath unto my Mother Mary Hooper and to her heirs and assigns, all the money and securities for money due to me of which I shall die possessed, after the payment of my just debts and funeral charges.

        I give and bequeath unto my sisters Mary T. Hooper & Sarah C. Hooper and to their heirs, and assigns all my wearing apparel and household furniture, to be divided equally between them.

        I hereby constitute and appoint my sister Sarah C. Hooper my Executrix to this my last Will and Testament.

        In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and seal this fifteenth day of July one thousand eight hundred and thirty nine

        Signed, sealed published and declared by the said Susan C. Hooper to be her last will and Testament in the presence of us the subscribers, who in her presence and at her request have subscribed the same as witnesses thereto.

        Artemas Hale

        Mercy H. Ames                                                                                                            Susan C. Hooper                             (seal)

        Deborah S. Rider

 

Presented for probate on the first Tuesday of October 1839 by Sarah C. Hooper, the Executor, and proved by Artemas Hale and Mercy H. Ames, two of the witnesses.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 81, p. 569-570, from FHL microfilm #0555266.

 

 

Will of Thomas Hooper of Bridgewater, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1759) *

In the name of God Amen the fifth day of Feby. 1759 I Thomas Hooper of Bridgwater In the County of Plymouth in New England yeoman being now of a Disposeing minde and memory haveimg the use of my Reason & understanding, Thank be Given To the Great God but Calling to minde the Mortallity of my Bodey and Knowing that it is apointed unto all men once To Die do make & ordain this my last will and Testament that is To Say princapally and first of all I give & Recommend my Soule into the hand of that God who Gave it, and my bodey I Recommend To the Earth to be buried with Decent Cristian Burial at the Discresion of my Executor hereafter named Nothing Doubting but at the Resurrection I Shall Receve ye same a gain by the Power of Almighty God and as Touching Such worldly Estate where with it hath Pleased God To bless me in this Life I Give I give & Dispose of the Same in the following manner & forme

1st. Tis my Will that All My Debts and Funeral Charges be well and Truly Paid in Convenant Time after my Decease

2dly. I Give & Bequeth unto my well beloved wife Sarah one of My best beds with all the furniture belonging to it 1 Chest of Draws and a Plain Chest & Two Cows to her her hers & Asignes for Ever as also the use & Improvement of the Easterly lower Room in my Dwelling house one third of the Celler and Such indore houshold Stuff as is Nesesary for her own use as also the use & Improvement of a Third part of my home farme and fire wood at the Door to be Provided for hir by my Executor here after named and all This during her Natural life

3dly. I Give and Bequeth unto my well beloved Son Thomas Hooper all my home farme Excepting Twelve Acres and all my other lands Excepting that which I bought of Deacon Jacob Howard and all my movable Estate of Every Sort & kinde both within Doors and without not above Desposed of to him his heirs and Assignes for Ever and order him to Pay the Several Legecys hereafter Spcified

4thly. I Give and Bequeth unto my well beloved Son John Hooper all that Meddow or Trackt of Land which I bought of Deacon Jacob Howard of Bridgwater and Twelve acres on the west end of my home farme adjoing To the land of Daniel Hudson and Eight Pounds Lawfull monny so Much of his wages as a Solder all this To him his heirs & Asigns for Ever

5thly. I Give and bequeth unto my wellbeloved Daughter Anna Wallis twenty Six pounds thirteen Shillings & four pence To be Paid in houshold Goods or in the nesesarys of Life

6thly. I Give & bequeth unto my weal beloved Sarah lech five Shillings & no more

7thly. I Give and bequeth unto my well beloved Daughter Mary Hooper Thirty Pounds to be Paid in houshold Goods or in the nesesarys of life

8thly. I Give & bequeth unto my well beloved Daughter Jerusha Hooper Twenty Six pounds thirteen Shillings and four Pence to be Paid in houshold Goods or in the Nesaserys of life

finely Tis My will and I Do hereby Constitute and appoint my Well beloved Son Thomas Hooper Sole Executor of this my last will & Testament the Several Legeses in this will mentioned to be by him Paid and I Do hereby Ratifie & Confirm this & no other to be my last will & Testament and Disallowing all other will before this Time by me made in witness where of I have hereunto Set my hand & Seal the Day & year above mentioned

Signed Sealed Published Prounances & Declared                                                                         his

by the Sd Thomas Hooper as his last                                                                                    Thos.  X  hooper

will & Testament in Presens of us                                                                                                mark

Daniel Hudson

James Hooper

Nathl. Hayward

 

Presented for probate on 4 June 1759 by the Executor within named, and proved by James Hooper and Nathaniel Howard. Letters of Administration were granted to his Son Thomas Hooper, the Executor, on 4 June 1759, with James Hooper and Nathl. Howard, both of Bridgwater, as sureties.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 15, p. 268-270, from FHL microfilm #0551543.

 

 

Will of Barnabas Horton of Southold, East Riding, Yorkshire, Long Island (1680) *

May the tenth one thousand six hundd. Eighty – I Barnabas Horton of Southold in the East Rydeing of yorkshire upon Long Island Calleing to Remembrance the uncertainty of this temporall Life and finding sundry Distemprs Dayly Growing upon me Doe now make this my Last Will and testament and thereby Dispose of my Earthly Estate in manner Following And first of all I Give unto my Eldest sonne Joseph Horton tenn sheepe Kinde, (To what he Formerly had) for his full porĉon Also I Give to my Daughter Sarah Concklings Sonne Vizt. Joseph Conckling five Sheepe kind for her full porĉon. Alsoe I Give to my third Daughter Mary Budd five sheepe as her full porĉon. Alsoe I Give and Bequeath to Caleb Horton my third sonne one Horse Kinde and the one halfe of all my Right in Occabanck after my Wives Decease to what he hath in possession all Canchang[?] for his full porĉon Alsoe I Give to Joshua Horton my fourth sonne all the House Lands meadows Orchard and Common of pasture, which was mine and is now in his possession, and the one Halfe of all my Meadow and Upland within the Bounds of Occubanke and all my meadow att Oyster ponds, and One Horse Kinde for his porĉon Alsoe I Give and Bequeath to my youngest sonne Jonathan Horton all my Dwelling Houses Barne out Houses Home lotts Earable Lands meadows Allotments and Whatsoever Else of Right Belong to my possession, which is Neither Before nor after in this my Last Will and Testament Bequeathed or Disposed off, with this proviso and Exception that the New House Remaine Solly to my Wife and for her use During her Life, alsoe that she have the use of the Barne and Out Houseing as need shall Require, alsoe that she have the third Bushell of all that Graine which arriseth and Groweth yearely upon my Lands paid her by my Sonne Jonathan and Alsoe that he winter and Summer her fouer Cowes Constantly; Butt the Encrease shall be his, and further I Give to my Son Jonathan two Bullocks also I Give and Bequeath unto my youngest Daughter Mercy Youngs three Cowes and one Heafer. Butt if there be not soe many Left Undisposed off that then she have the worth of those that Shall be found Wanting paid to her in some other Good pay that shall be Equivelent to them) alsoe a Featherbed with Boulster and pillows one Coverlett, two Blanketts and fouer pair of sheets And alsoe, one Greate brasse Kettle one Iron pott and Fouer pewter Dishes. Finally I Give unto my Well Beloved Wife Mary Horton all the Restt of my Estate Undisposed of and Doe make and Ordaine her Sole Executrix of this my Last will and Testament For the full Confirmaĉon Whereof I the abovesaid Barnabas Horton doe Hereunto Sett my Hand and Seale the Day and yeare First above Written

Signed and Sealed in                                                                                                           Barnabas Horton                             (seal)

prsence of us         Jonas Houldsworth   Richard R B Benjamin

                                                                                his Marke

Memorandum that the words Enterlined in the 14 Line was Done Before the signeing and sealing Hereof, and are to be Understood as is Expresed in ye Margent (Vizt.).

It is to be Understood that my Sonne Jonathan possess and Improve the one Halfe of all my Right within the bounds of Occubank During the time of my Wives Natural Life Butt att her Death it is to become my sonne Calebs for him to Enjoye for Ever Hereafter.

 

Presented for probate on 4 March 1681, and Mary Horton, his Widdow and Relict, was appointed his Sole Executrix on 18 Nov. 1681.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from New York County Probate Wills Vol. 2, p. 417-418, copied from original Libor 2, p. 242-243.

 

 

Will of James Horton of Southold, Suffolk County, Province of New York (1758) *

In the Name of God Amen James Horton of Southold in the County of Suffolk & Collony of New York Yeoman being infirm of Body but of perfect mind & memory thanks be given unto God therefor calling to mind the uncertainty of this Life and that it is appointed for all Men once to Die do make ordain constitute & appoint this to be my last Will & Testament in manner & form following first I bequeath my Soul to God, who gave it and my Body I recommend to the Earth to be buried in descent Christian burial at the discretion of my Executrix & Executors here in after named nothing doubting but at the general Resurrection I shall receive the same again by the mighty power of God and as to my Worldly Estate with which it hath pleased God to bless me with after my funeral Charges and just Debts first paid I dispose of in the following manner & form Imprimis I give will & bequeath unto my well beloved Wife Anne the use of my now dwelling House & Barn and priviledges of ways & water as shall be needful for her during her Life or as long as she remain my widow and also one fourth of the Grain that shall be raised off my Land yearly she being at one fourth of the Charge during the Term abovesaid and also sufficency of wood yearly by my two eldest Sons I also give her all my moveable Goods & Chattels Except what is herein given to dispose of to my daughter Abigail So as She may have Equal to what I given to my Eldest Daughter 2dly I give will & bequeath unto my Eldest Son James my house & Land where my son Barnabas now dwelleth and one right in the manner I purchast of Major Smith and allso that Lott of Land in Hogneck lying between Mr. Budds Land & my medow and the meadow down the neck that part joying to Buds meadow & to run as far Westward as far as the gutter that runs out of ye broad Swamp a slip of Land I purchast of Ezra Reeve joyning to Land I gave him before and one half a Right at Shelter Island and two Lotts of upland at the foot of Brushes hill joyning to Cories Land and one horse & one yoak of Oxen the Said land & medow I give to him and to his heirs & assigns for Ever I also give ye fourth part of the Grain raised off my Land with the privaledges of house & barn with his mother he being at fourth part of Charg and he is to cut & Cart half the Wood during the Term abovesaid for his Mother I also give him half my husbandry implements and 3dly I give and will unto my Second Son Barnabas all my other Land & medow in the Township with the housing I I now dwell & Barn and one right at Shelter Island all Said Land & medow accomodations after his Mother hath done with them I give to my Son Barnabas and to his heirs & assigns for Ever and also that Land & medow I willed to my son James if he dye without issue and also half my Husbandry impliments 4thly I give and Will unto my 3d son Silas the Land & medow at Goshen I purchas’d of Hobart Thompson with all the housing appertaining also twenty Acres I purchast of Mr. Everit adjoyning to the West ward part of said Land running within twenty rod of George Tompsons bounds in the Swamp all which Land & medow I give to him & to his heirs and assigns for Ever and one hors & one yoak of Oxen and twenty pound york money to be paid Six months after my Disceas 5thly I give and will unto my 4th. Son Esra thirty pounds current money of this Collony 6 ly I give & will unto my fifth Son Thomas one hundred & forty Acres Joyning to Silas his Land which I give to him and to his heirs & assigns for Ever and one hors & one pair of Oxen & twenty pounds current mony to be paid in Six months after my disceas 7thly I give & Will unto my youngest son Jonathan the remaining part of my Land at Goshen which I purchast of Mr. Everit joyning to Thomass Land which is about one hundred & forty Acres I give to him & to his heirs & assigns for ever I give him also one hors & one yoak of Oxen one gun & Sword and twenty pounds york money to be paid in Six months after my Discease by my Son Barnabas and its my will that if Either of my four-youngest sons dye before they have Children then the rest that Survive shall have his Estate Equally divided among them moreover I order my son Barnbas to pay to my youngest sons their twenty pound Each in Lew of half Lott at Shelter-Island not before disposed Lastly I do ordain constitute & appoint my well beloved Wife Executrix & my sons James & Barnabas Executors to this my last Will & Testament to se it duly executed & performed that Every clause & thing herein contained may construed according to the true intent and meaning thereof whatsoever may seem doubtful & ambiguous and I do hereby utterly disalow revoke & disanul all & every other Wills Testaments by me before made named willed & bequeathed ratifying & confirming this and no other to be my last Will and Testament In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand & seal this 29 day of November 1758

                                                                                                                                                James Horton                                   (seal)

Signed sealed published pronounced & declared by the said James Horton as his last Will & Testament

Lazarus Horton, Joseph Cleveland, Mary Cleveland

 

Presented for probate on 24 Nov. 1767, and proved by Joseph Cleveland, Cooper, and Mary Cleveland, spinster, both of Southold. Letters of Administration were granted to Barnabas Horton, one of the Executors in the said Will named, on 6 April 1768.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from New York County Probate Wills Vol. 26, p. 267-270, copied from original Libor 26, p. 231-233.

 

 

Will of Hannah Hoskins of Middleborough, Plymouth County, Massachusetts Bay (1780) *

        Know all men, by these presents, that, I Hannah Hoskins of the town of Middleborough in the County of Plymouth in New England (widow of Nathan Hoskins of said Middlebo, deced) being weak of body yet of a sound & disposing memory & understanding, blessed be God, for the same, yet knowing the mortality of my body, and that it is appointed for all once to die, do make & ordain this my last will & testament to be firm & inviolable forever.—

Imprimis.— I Give & bequeath to Micah Cole, Son of my Sister Lydia Cole deceased; my Bed that is filled with hens feathers, & the bedding thereto belonging; and also, all the money, that I die seized of, & all debts due to me—

Item—I Give & bequeath to my Niece, Hannah Cole, daughter of my brother Robert Cole, and my Niece, Hannah Cole, daughter of my brother Abiel Cole, all the other estate of all denominations, that I die seized of, to be equally divided between them, after my just debts and funeral charges are first paid out of the same. and my will is, that if either of my said nieces should decease without heir or heirs, that then, the survivor shall have the whole, and if both of them should decease without heirs, then my will is, that my Sister Phebe, wife of Joseph Phinney, or her heirs shall have the whole of what is given to them

        Item—my will is, and I hereby constitute & appoint Jonathan Phinney of said Middleborough, Executor to this my last will & testament; thus hoping that this my last will & testament will be kept & performed according to the true intent & meaning thereof, I commit my soul into the hands of God who gave it, and my body to the dust to a decent burial. In witness whereof I the aforesaid Hannah Hoskins have hereunto Set my hand & seal; this eighth day of September, one thousand, seven hundred & eighty. – the words “or her heirs” was interlined before signing, also the words “of said Middlebo”

Signed, Sealed, Pronounced & De-                                                                                                  her

clared, by the said Hannah Hoskins,                                                                               Hannah   O   Hoskins

as her last will & testament in the                                                                                                    mark

presence of us –

                Jacob Bennet

                Elkanah Bennet

                Hope Bennet junr

 

Presented for probate on 6 Mar. 1801 by Jonathan Phinney, the Executor therein named, and proved by Elkanah Bennet, one of the witnesses.

 

Saml. Pickens, yeoman, Ebenezer Briggs ye third Gentleman, & Jos. Smith, yeoman, all of Middleborough, were appointed to appraise the estate of Hannah Hoskins, late of Middlebo, widow, on 20 Dec. 1800. The Inventory of all ye estate of ye widow Hannah Hoskins, late of Middlebo, dated 26 Dec. 1800, totaled $450.22, including notes of hand valued at $237.64, but no real estate. Jona. Phinney, the Exõr, gave his oath to the inventory on 6 Mar. 1801.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 37, p. 421-422, from FHL microfilm #0550719.

 

 

Will of Nathan Hoskins of Middleborough, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1776) *

Know all men by these presents that I Nathan Hoskins of the Town of Middleborough in the County of Plymouth in New England, being weak of body yet of a sound and disposing memory and understanding Blessed be God for the same, yet knowing the mortality of my body and that it is appointed for all men once to die do make and Ordain this my Last Will & testament to be firm and Inviolable forever ~

Imprimis—I Give and Bequeath to my well beloved wife Hannah Hoskins all my indoor moveables, that are not dispose of at my decease, Excepting my wearing Apparel; and allso I Give and bequeath to her my said wife the use and improvement of One third part of all my Reall Estate, and One third part of all my Out door moveables during her natural Life ~

Item—I Give and bequeath to my Brother William Hoskins One fourth part of all my wearing Apparel, and also, Six shillings to be paid by my Executor hereafter named

Item—I Give and bequeath to my Brother, Abial Hoskins One fourth part of all my wearing Apparel, and also Six Shillings, to be paid by my Executor hereafter named ~

Item—I Give and bequeath to my Brother Shadrack Hoskins One fourth part of all my wearing Apparell, and also Six Shillings to be paid by my Executor hereafter named ~

Item—I Give & bequeath to my Brother George Hoskins One fourth part of all my wearing Apparell, and also Six Shillings to be paid by my Executor hereafter named ~

Item—I Give and bequeath to my sister Abigail Caswell the wife of Elkanah Caswell Six shillings to be paid by my Executor hereafter named

Item—I Give and bequeath to my Sister Sarah Booth, widow of Benjamin Booth decd. Six Shillings to be paid by my Executor hereafter named

Item—I Give and bequeath to my Sister Lydia, the wife of Seth Richmond, six shillings to be paid by my Executor hereafter named ~

Item—I Give and bequeath to the two children of my Sister Anna decd. the former wife of Jacob Smith, Six shillings to be Equally divided between them and to be paid by my Executor hereafter named

Item—I Give and bequeath to Daniell Perry of Middleborough aforesaid his heirs and assigns forever all my Lands and Buildings, and all my Estate of all denominations that I have not or do not otherways dispose of he paying all my Just debts and funeral charges, and the above Legacies, and allso procuring and Sitting Good decent Grave Stones to my Grave and my wives after our Burial

Item—I hereby constitute and appoint, the abovesaid Daniel Perry to be Sole Executor to this my Last Will and testament, hereby revoking and disannulling all Other and former Wills and testaments made and signed by me, Ratifying and confirming this and no other as my Last and testament, thus hoping that this my Last Will and testament will be kept & performed, according to the true intent and meaning thereof, I commit my Soul into the hands of God who Gave it and my Body to the dust, to a decent Burial. In Witness whereof I the aforesaid Nathan Hoskins have hereunto Sett my hand and Seal, this thirteenth day of May One thousand seven hundred Seventy & Six

Signed, Sealed, pronounced and declared by                                                                 Nathan Hoskins                (seal)

the said Nathan Hoskins as his Last Will &

testament in presence of us ~

  Jacob Bennett

  Nehemiah Bennett

  Jacob Bennett junr ~

 

Presented for probate on 6 July 1778 by Daniell Perry, the Executor therein named, and proved by Jacob Bennett and Jacob Bennett junr., two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Daniel Perry, the before named Executor, with Jacob Bennett, of Middleborough, yeoman, and Thomas Savory of Plympton, yeoman, as sureties.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 25, p. 51-53, from FHL microfilm #0550713.

 

 

Will of James Hovey Esqr., of Plymouth, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1761) *

In the Name of God Amen – I, James Hovey of Plymouth in the county of Plymouth in New England Esqr. being at this time on a Sick Bed but through Gods Goodness of a sound and disposing mind & memory & desirous of Setting my House in Order before I die, do make and ordain this my Last Will and Testament In the first place I Recommend my Soul into the hands of almighty God & my body to a Decent burial at the discretion of my Executrix hereafter named and as to my temporal Estate I dispose of the same in the Following manner and form vizt.

Imprimis – I give to my well beloved wife Lydia Hovey all my Personal Estate whatsoever without Exception – I also Give to my said wife the improvement of all my Real Estate without impeachment of waste during her natural Life and after her decease I Give to my brother John Hovey and his heirs and assigns three Seventh parts of my Real Estate

Item – I Give to my Nephew Thomas Hovey the son of my brother Ebenezer One Seventh part of my Real Estate to him his heirs & assigns Forever

Item – The Remaining three Seventh parts of my Real Estate I Give to my Nephew Francis Adams, to him his heirs and assigns Forever

Finally – I constitute my wife Lydia Hovey Executrix of this my Last Will and Testament – In witness whereof I have hereunto Set my hand & Seal this First day of January Anno Domini 1761

Signed, Sealed, Delivered, Published

& Declared by said James Hovey to

be his Last Will and Testament in                                                                                    Jas. Hovey                          (seal)

presence of us

                Edward Winslow

                Sarah Shurtliff

                Elizabeth Hearsey

 

Presented for probate by Francis Adams, one of the Legatees, on 3 Sept. 1781, and proved by Edward Winslow Esqr., one of the witnesses, and administration was granted to Isaac Lothrop Esqr. and Ephraim Spooner administrators cum testament annexo on 3 Sept. 1781.

 

Isaac Lothrop Esqr. and Ephraim Spooner, Gentm., both of Plymouth, were granted administration of the estate of James Hovey, late of Plymouth, Esqr., on 11 Apr. 1781.

 

Whereas Administration on the Estate of James Hovey late of Plymouth, Esqr., was on 11 Apr. 1781 granted to Isaac Lothrop Esqr. and Ephraim Spooner, Gentm., and whereas on 3 Sept. 1781 the last will and testament of the said James Hovey was presented for probate by Francis Adams of Kingston, Cooper, one of the Legatees in said Will, which Will having been proved, approved and allowed, therefore the said Administration is hereby revoked and disannulled and made void on 3 Oct. 1781.

 

Whereas James Hovey late of Plymouth, Esqr., deceased, did on 1 Jan. 1761 make his will in writing, by which he appointed his wife Lydia Hovey as Sole Executrix, but she dying before the Testator, therefore administration cum testamento annexo was granted to Isaac Lothrop and Ephraim Spooner, both of Plymouth, on 3 Oct. 1781, with Wm. Watson and Nathl. Lothrop as sureties.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of James Hovey late of Plymouth Esqr., was appraised by William Watson, Sylva. Bartlett, and James Doten on 12 Apr. 1781, and totaled £1030.6.2, including his real estate valued at £664.17. The appraisers gave their oath to the inventory on 26 July 1781.

 

William Watson Esqr., James Doten, Gentleman, and Sylvanus Bartlitt, yeoman, all of Plymouth, were appointed to set off to Mrs. Margarett Hovey, the widow of James Hovey, late of Plymouth, one third part of the Real Estate as her right of dower, on 18 Apr. 1781.

 

Thomas Hovey of Cambridge, County of Middlesex, Gentleman, for £9.10 paid to me by Joshua Thomas Esqr. and Ephraim Spooner, trader, both of Plymouth, do hereby Remise, Release and forever Quit all my Right, Title and Interest in all the Personal Estate which my Uncle James Hovey Esqr., late of Plymouth, dyed seized, on 7 Feb. 1784.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 28, p. 201-202 [Will], Vol. 27, p. 63 [First Administration], Vol. 28, p. 202-203 [Revoking of Administration], Vol. 27, p. 486-487 [Second Administration], Vol. 28, p. 184-187 [Inventory], Vol. 28, p. 188-189 [Widow’s Dower], Vol. 28, p. 375-376 [Quit Claim by Thomas Hovey].

 

 

Will of Olive Hovey of Plymouth, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1804) *

In the Name of God amen I Olive Hovey of Plymouth in the County of Plymouth in New England Widow being of a sound Mind but considering the Uncertainty of Life, do think proper to settle my worldly Estate, & do make my last Will and Testament in Manner following viz, first of all I commend my Soul to the everlasting Mercy of God through Christ & my body to a decent Burial, humbly hoping for a glorious Resurrection through the merits of my Redeemer, & as to my worldly Estate I dispose of in the following Manner—

1st.  I give and bequeath to my two Daughters viz Olive Pope & Anna Bartlett all my Real and personal Estate wherever it may be found together with all my wearing Apparel of all kinds – tis my Will that my two Daughters viz. Olive & Anna be at the Expence of my funeral

2  tis my will that my two Daughters pay unto my three Sons Dominicus & Ivory & Samuel two Dollars to each of them after my decease –

Signed sealed and declared to be my last will & Testament this thirteenth day of June ADomini 1804—

in presence of

        Francis Bartlett                                                                                                            Olive Hovey                                       (seal)

        Mary Meravillk

        Mary Blackmer

 

Presented for probate on 13 June 1805 by Abner Bartlett of Plymouth Esqr., and proved by Francis Bartlett and Mary Blackmer, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. As no Executor or Executrix was named, the Administration of the Estate with the Will annexed was granted to Abner Bartlett Esqr.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of the Widow Olive Hovey late of Plymouth, not dated, was appraised by John Bartlett, Josiah Cornish, and Branch Blackmer, and totaled $442.80, no real estate, but included $316.68 in notes of hand and other securities. The appraisers gave their oath to the inventory on 6 Mar. 1811, and Abner Bartlett Esqr., the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 14 May 1811. The accounting of the estate by Abner Bartlett, dated 14 May 1811, included $6.00 paid to Dominicus, Samuel and Ivory Hovey, half the furniture paid to Olive Pope, and the other half the furniture paid to his late wife.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 40, p. 232-233, from FHL microfilm #0550901, and Vol. 43, p. 444.

 

 

Will of Barnabas Howard of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1813) *

  In the Name of God amen I Barnabas Howard of Bridgwater in the County of Plymouth Esquire being weak in Body but of sound Mind do this scond day of November in the year of our Lord one Thousand eight hundred & thirteen make & publish this my last will & Testament in manner following that is to say –

        Imprimis I give to my beloved Wife the use & Improvement of one third of all my Household Goods & also one third of all my Land for & during her natural Life –

        Item I give & bequeath to my three Sons Oliver Howard Jones Howard & Gideon Howard, one Dollar each to be paid to them in one Year after my decease –

        Item I give & bequeath to my seven Grand Children the Children of my Daughter Damaris French deceased one Dollar to be equally divided among them. –

        Item I give & bequeath to my two Grandchildren the Children of my Daughter Mehitabel Wales deceased one Dollar to be divided betwixt them. –

        Item I give & bequeath to my two Grandchildren the Children of my Daughter Lois Keith, deceased, one Dollar to be equally divided between them –

        Item I give & bequeath to my Granddaughter Mary Holbrook the wife of John Holbrook one Dollar –

        I give & bequeath to my Daughter in Law Silence Howard one Hundred Dollars to be paid her in one Year after my Decease. –

        Item I give & bequeath to my Daughter Vesta Howard the Wife of Daniel Howard junr. Esqr. all my Estate both Real & personal which may remain after my just debts funeral Charges Expences of settling my Estate & the Legacies above are paid, to be to her & her Heirs & assigns forever –

        And lastly I do constitute & appoint the aforesaid Daniel Howard Junr. Esqr sole Executor of this my Last Will & Testament – In Testimony whereof I do hereunto set my hand & seal the day & Year first above written —                                                                        

Signed sealed pronounced & declared by the said Barnabas Howard                                      his

as & for his last will & Testament in the presence of us who at his                           Barnabas  X  Howard                          (seal)

request & in his presence hereunto set our Names as Witnesses to the same                          Mark

                Ichabod Howard

                Robert Howard

                John May

 

Presented for probate on 6 Dec. 1813 by Daniel Howard Junr. Esqr., the Executor therein named, and proved by Ichabod Howard, Robert Howard and John May, the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Daniel Howard Junr. the before named Executor.

 

Caleb Howard Esqr., Daniel Ames, Yeoman, and Thomas Packard, Gentleman, all of Bridgwater, were appointed to appraise the Estate of Barnabas Howard, late of Bridgwater, on 5 Dec. 1814 [sic-1813]. The Inventory of the Estate of Barnabas Howard Esqr., late of Bridgwater, was dated 1 Jan. 1814, totaled $2720.13, including his real estate valued at $1733.50. Daniel Howard Junr. Esqr., the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 7 Mar. 1814.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 45, pp. 168-169, 278-279, from FHL microfilm #0550903.

 

 

Will of Damaris Howard of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Massachusetts Bay (1780) *

In the Name of God Amen. I Damaris Howard of Bridgwater in the County of Plymouth, in the State of the Massachusetts Bay in New England widow & relict of Daniel Howard of the town, county & State aforesaid Esqr. being of perfect mind & memory, & calling to mind the mortality of my body do make & ordain this my last will & testament and first, I would recommend my soul to God who gave it, & my body I bequeath to the earth to be interred in decent christian burial, at the discretion of my Executors of this my last will & testament, hereafter to be named, expecting to recieve ye. same again at the resurrection of the just by the mighty power of God & the temporal estate which God is pleased to favour me with in my natural life I would dispose of in manner & form following vizt. my just debts my funeral charges & the charges of settling my estate shall be paid out of my estate by the executors of this my last will & testament, and I do Give & bequeath to my Son Capt Barnabas Howard of said Bridgwater my Desk which was his father’s desk, and the rest of my estate not already disposed of in this my said will & testament, I do give & bequeath to my two Daughters Mary Cary the wife of Colo. Simeon Cary of Bridgwater aforesaid & to Silence Hayden the wife of Major Josiah Hayden of said Bridgwater to be equally divided between them my said two daughters, & I do constitute & ordain my Son in law Colo. Simeon Cary aforesaid & my Son Captain Barnabas Howard aforesaid, to be the Executors of this my last will & testament, & I do utterly disallow & revoke all other former wills, testament, Legacies, bequeathments & Executors by me before made willed, bequeathed & named, ratifying and confirming this & no other to be my last will & testament.  In Testimony thereof I have hereunto Set my hand & affixed my Seal this seventeenth day of November Anno Domini one thousand seven hundred & Eighty. –

Signed, Sealed, Published & declared to

be ye last will & testament of sd. Damaris                                                                      Damaris Howard                             (seal)

Howard in ye presence of us

                Robert Howard

                Recompence Cary

                Benjamin Webb

 

Presented for probate on 2 Nov. 1794 by Simeon Cary and Barnabas Howard, the Executors therein named, and proved by Robert Howard, one of the witnesses thereto subscribed, Recompence Cary and Benjamin Webb being deceased. Letters of Administration were granted to Simeon Cary and Barnabas Howard, the before named Executors.

No inventory of her estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 35, p. 337-339, from FHL microfilm #0550718.

 

 

Will of Daniel Howard of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Massachusetts Bay (1777) *

Know all men by these presents that I Daniel Howard of Bridgwater in the county of Plymouth in New England Esqr. do make this my Last will, that is in the first place, I recommend and Give my soul to God the most high that Gave it, and my body to be buried at the discretion of my Executor, and as to my worldly interest, in the first place I Give to my well beloved wife Damaris Howard all my household furniture and two cows, and one third part of the improvement of the south part of my farm where I now dwell during her natural Life, but the household furniture and cows to be her own to improve or dispose of as she pleases, and the cows to kept winter and summer on her part of the farm by my Executor, and he to find fire wood for her at the door for her fit for the fire, and my Executor to pay my wife Forty shillings a year during her Life if she demands it

   I Give to my Son Barnabas Howard and to his heirs all my homestead farm and all my farming tools and all my wearing cloaths, and my part of the saw mill at home and One third part of four acres of Cedar swamp in Easton, and half a Lot of Cedar swamp in Braintree, and One third part of about three Thousand acres of Land that I own in the Town of Winslow in the county of Lincoln

        I give to my daughter Mary Cary and Silence Hayden and their heirs and assigns about One hundred and ten acres of Land Lying in the north west corner of Bridgwater, together with Five acres joyning to it that I bought of Samuel Ston of Easton, Lying in Easton, and my part of a saw mill standing near said Land, and two thirds of four acres of Cedar swamp Lying in Easton, and two thirds of about three thousand acres of Land Lying in the Town of Winslow in the county of Lincoln, to be equally divided between them, that is Mary Cary and Silence Hayden and their heirs, and the money and securities for money, that I may die seized of, my will is that it be equally divided between my three children Barnabas, Mary and Silence after my funeral charges and Just debts are paid, and if there be any other Estate that belongs to me, my will is that it be equally divided between my three children, and if any charge of cost should hereafter happen or be for the Lothing my Eastern Land, or to defend any Land that I may die seized of, or to make Good any that I have sold, my will is that my three children pay their equal part of said charge, and I do appoint my Son Barnabas my Executor to this my Last will and testament – Dated this sixth day of March Anno Domini 1777

Signed Sealed and delivered in

   Presence of ~                                                                                                                     Daniel Howard                                (seal)

Robert Howard Junr, Zackariah Howard

Edmund Littlefield junr – Robert Howard 4th

 

Presented for probate on 3 May 1779 by Barnabas Howard, the Executor therein named, and proved by Zackariah Howard and Robert Howard ye 4th, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Barnabas Howard, the before named Executor.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Daniel Howard Esqr., late of Bridgwater, was appraised on 14 Oct. 1779 by Zebedee Soul, Robert Howard, and Jesse Perkins, and totaled £36,164.7.1, including his real estate valued at £33,304.0. The appraisers gave their oath to the inventory on 15 Nov. 1779, and Barnabas Howard, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 3 July 1780.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 25, pp. 273-274, 533-534, from FHL microfilm #0550713.

 

 

Will of David Howard of Bridgewater, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1751) *

In The Name of God Amen the Twenty Ninth Day of April in the Year of our Lord one Thousand Seven Hundred and Fifty and one: I – David Howard of Bridgwater in the County of Plimouth Gentm. Being of perfect mind and memory thanks Be Given to God therefor Calling to mind the Mortality of my Body and Knowing that it is appointed unto all men one to Die do make and ordain this my last Will and Testement that is to Say principaly and first of all I Give and Recommend my Soule into the Hand of God who Gave it and for my Body I Recommend it to the Earth to be Buried in a Christian Like and Decent Mannor at the Discretion of My Executor nothing Doubting But at the General Rezurection I Shall Receive the Same again By the Mighty power of God and as Touching Such Worldly Estate Where with it Pleased God to Bless Me in this Life I Give devise and Dispose of the Same in Following Mannor and Form –

Imprs. I Will that my Funeral Charges and just Debts Be paid By My Executor Hereafter named … Item … I Give To My Beloved Wife Elisabeth all the Previledges and advantages mentioned in a Contract Made with Her Before Marriage .. Item .. I Give and Bequeath to my Son David Howard Whom I Make Executor of this My Last Will and Testament His Heirs and assigns Forever all my Homested Excepting four acres of Land which I Hereafter Give to my Son Eliakim and the Buildings thereon Standing First allowing my Beloved wife the Previledges Contracted for therein also one half of about Fifty five acres of Land Lying Southerly from George Haward and is Bounded partly By West Meadow also one Half of my Right in the undivided Land within the Eight Mile Grant in Bridgwater also one Half of Twenty one acres of Land where my Meadow is in Cutting Cove Swamp also one Half of Fifteen acres of Land Pitch’d in said Swamp, also one third part of all my Cedor Swamp in Bridgwater, also one third part of ninteen acres of pine swamp near the Old Neck so Called, also one Half of my Pew in the Meeting House also my Case of Bottles, also one Half of my Wairing apparel, also one quarter part of a Hundred acres of Land near David Dunbars paying my Daughter Phebe Howard Twenty Six pounds thirteen Shillings and Four pence Lawfull Money within Two years after my Decease also one quarter part more of said Hundred acres of Land paying my Daughter Bethiah Howard Twenty Six Pounds thirteen Shillings and four pence Lawfull money within Five years after My Decease –

Item. I Give and Bequeath to My Son Simeon Howard When he Shall arrive at the age of Twenty and one years and to His heirs and assigns forever all my Lands in Tanton north Purchase Being about one Hundred and Twenty acres Beside a quarter of a Right in the Ceder Swamp that was Josiah Keiths also one purchas Right and a quarter and a thirty Second part of a Right in the undivided Land in said Tanton North purchase also one third part of all my Ceder Swamp in Bridgewater also one third part of ninteen acres of Pine Swamp near the old Neck in Bridgwater also ye Income of My part of the Saw Mill and part of the Income of My Grist Mill after My Decease Till Such Time as my Son Eliakim Howard Shall arrive at the age of Twenty one Years as Shall Hereafter Be Expressed also one Cow one yoke of oxen My Colt and Logg Chain one Half of My Shop Tools one Honed ax my Best Saddle and Ten Sheep one Half of my Farming Tooles one Flock Bed and Covering for the Same Half My Wearing apparrel and my Surveying Instruments –

Item. I Give and Bequeath to my Son Eliakim Howard when he Shall arrive at the age of Twenty and one Years and to his heirs and assigns forever my Grist Mill and Saw mill and all My Lands thereto adjoyning he fulfilling the Remaining part of the Contract with My Beloved Wife Elizabeth as the Corn She is to Have Yerly Also my Lott in Flagg Meadow and Four acres of Land Being Part of My Homested and is Bounded is Southerly By the Land of Capt. Howard and Easterly By the Land of Jonathan Snell and to Run So Far North By said Snells Land as to Have a watering place At the Brook Below Bulls Hole Damms also Twenty pounds worth of Board or other Materials Suitable To Buld a House with to be Be paid By My Executor when the said Eliakim Shall arrive at the Age of Twenty and one Years also one Half of about fifty five acres of Land Lying Southerly From George Howards and Bounded Partly By West Meadow also one Half of My Right in the undivided Land within the Eight Mile Grant in Bridgewater also one Half of Twenty one acres of Land where My Meadow is in Cutting Cove Swamp also one Half Fifteen acres of Land Pitched in Said Swamp also one third part of My Cedar Swamp in Bridgwater also one third Part of Nineteen acres of My Pine Swamp neor the old Neck also one Half of My Pew in the Meeting House also Two acres and an half of Land Lying where the Souther most path Goes, through The Birch Swamp South Westward From West Meddows also one Cow one quarter Part of a Hundred acres of Land near David Dunbars paying my Daughter Mary Haward Twenty Six pounds thirteen Shillings and Four pence Lawfull Money when She Shall arive at the age of Twenty and one Years also one quarter part More of said Hundred acres of Land paying my Daughter Katharine Howard twenty Six pounds thirteen Shillings and Four pence Lawfull money when She Shall arrive at the age of Twenty and one years –

Item  I Give to My Daughter Phebe Howard one quarter part of all my Pewter Brass Iron Copper and Tin Household utensils one half of My Other Household utensils not Before Disposed of also Twenty Six pounds thirteen Shillings and Four pence Lawful monney to be payd By My Son David Howard within Two Years after my Decease But in Case He should Fail of paying it By that Time then in such Case I Give to My Daughter Phebe and to Her Heirs and assigns one quarter part of a Hundred acres of of Land Near David Dunbers.

Item – I Give to My Daughter Bethiah Howard one quarter part of all my Pewter Brass Iron Copper and Tin utensiels also the Remaining half of all My other Household utensiels not Before disposed of also Twenty Six Pounds Thirteen Shillings and Four pence Lawfull money to be paid By My Son David Howard within Five years after my Decease But in Case he should Fail of paying it By that Time then in Such Case I Give To My said Daughter Bethiah and To her heirs and assigns one quarter part of a Hundred Acres of Land nere David Dunbers – Item – I Give To My Daughter Mary Howard and To Heirs and assigns forever one quarter part of all my Pewter Brass Iron Copper and Ten utensiels also one Half of Seventeen acres of Land Lying on the westerly and Southerly Side of the Land that My Father gave Sister Burr also one Half of My Interest in the Forge to Be Sold By her Guardian if he Shall Judge it needful also one Half of the Silver that fell to me on the Division of my Fathers Leonards Estate also one Cow: When She Shall arive at the age of Eighteen years also Twenty Six pounds thirteen Shillings and Four pence Lawfull Money to be paid By my Son Eliakim when She Shall arrive at the age of Twenty and one years But in Case he Should Fail paying it By that Time then in Such Case I give to my Daughter Mary and to her Heirs and assigns Forever one quarter part of a Hundred acres of Land nere David Dunbers –

Item: I Give to My Daughter Katharine Howard and to her heirs and assigns Forever one quarter part of all my Pewter Brass Iron Copper and Ten utensiles also one half of Seventeen acres of Land Lying on the Westerly and Southerly Sides of the Lands my Father gave to Sister Burr also one half of my Interest in the forge to Be Sold By Her Guardian if he Shall Judge it needful also one Cow when She Shall arive at the age of Eighteen years also one Half of the Silver that fell to me one the Division of Father Leonards Estate also Twenty Six pounds thirteen Shillings and four pence Lawfull money to Be paid to her By my Son Eliakim when She Shall arive at the age of Twenty one years But in Case He Should fail of paying it By that time then in Such Case I Give my Daughter Katharine and to her Heirs and assigns forever one quarter part of a Hundred acres of Land near to David Dunbers: Item: I Leave all my Live Stock in the hands of my Executor for him to Improve to his own advantage he Delivering out to Each of my Sons and Each of My Daughters His and Her particular Parts thereof as Heretofore Expressed: Further it is my Will that my Son David Take the Charge of of my part of the Saw mill and my Grist Mill Till Such Time as my Son Eliakim Shall arrive at ye age of Twenty one Years and after he has paid himself for Tending and Repairing and Set out to my Beloved Wife Elizabeth the Corn I Covenanted to Deliver her the Remaining part of the Income of Both Mills is to Be paid to My Brouther Danil Howard and By Him is to Be Laid out in Cheearing and Subsduring the Land I Give To my Son Simeon and at the Expiration of the Time To Leave the Grist Mill in as Good Repair as at my Decease the Charge thereof to Be out of the Income – Further it is my Will that in Case the Providence of God Should so order that Either of my Sons Should die Before he arives at the age of Twenty one years then in Such Case I Give the one Hhalf of the Deceased Portion or portions to my Surviving Son or Sons and to there Heirs and assigns forever and the other Half to be Equaly Divided Betwext my four Daughters here to fore named and to there Heirs and assigns forever and in Case the Providance of God so order that one or more of my Daughters Should Die before the Time of Pay Ment of the Twenty Six pounds thirteen Shilling and Four Pence which is to Redeem one quarter part of a Hundred acres of Land Near David Dunbers then in Such Case my Will is that if the Money Be Timly paid To ye Surviving Brouther, and Sisters or There Representatives they Shall Discharge the payment and he Whose Right it is to Redeem said Land Shall Enjoy possess as as Heretofor Expressed He to Have an Equal Share of the Money provided the Dead Leave no Heir or Her Body if She doth then the Money To Go to said Heirs – Further I Do Hereby appoint My Brouther Daniel Howard Guardian To my Son Simeon and Eliakim and To My Daughter Bethiah Mary and Katharine and it is my Will that the Said Guardian Receive of my Executor that part of the Income of my mills that I have given to my Son Simeon and Yearly Layiant the Same on the Land that I have given him in Taunton North Purchase Either in Subduring Said Land or Building upon it or Both as he Shall think Fit, paying Himself for his Trouble out of the Same and in Case the Guardian Should Judge it most to their advantage to Sell it and put the Money To Interest for them then I Do hereby Impower him to Sell the Same in Either of these Casses and give a Conveyance of the Same as Guardian. Further: to Enable my Executor to Pay my Funeral Charges and Just Debts I Give to him and his heirs and assigns forever thirty one acres of Land and meadow at Salsberrough plain Seventeen acres of Land nere Ephraim Williss, and Ten acres of Land at the Beach neck nere Joseph Algors and fourteen acres adjoyning to Danll Littlefields Homestead To Be Set of from that Hundred acres of Land that I have given To my Sons David and Eliakim Conditionally By a North and South Line – also all other my Estate Both Real and personal not Before Disposed of Excepting my Books them to Be Equally Divided Excepting my Book of Accompt which I give to my David also give him the Improvement of the land that I have given to my son Eliakim till he arrives at the age of twenty & one years but not to make An [can’t read] of ye [can’t read] also my apprentices time he fulfilling their Indentures and also my [can’t read] it is my Will yt my son David Cut what timber is necessary for fireing [can’t read] on ye lands that I have given my son Eliakim and I do Hereby Ratify and Confirm this to Be my Last Will and Testament in Witness whereof I Have Hereunto Set my Hand and Seal the Day and Year above written

Signed Sealed Published pronounced and Declared By the Said David Howard to be his Last Will and Testament In Presence of us

Ephraim Keith                                                                                                      David Howard                  (seal)

Ichabod Keith

Ebenzer Willis

 

Probated on 10 July 1751, and proved by Ephraim Keith and Ichabod Keith, two of the witnesses.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 12, p. 287-291, from FHL microfilm #0551539.

 

 

Will of James Howard Jr., of Plymouth, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1748) *

I James Howard Junr—of Plimouth in the County of Plimouth Mariner being bound to Sea do make my last will and Testament as followeth that is to say Conserning my Worldly Estate Both Real & personal I do give and dispose of the same To my son Thomas Howard a minor to be possessed by him at his arrival to the age of Twenty one years, The same being left in the Hands of my Execx. hereafter named To the End, that with the same he Should be brought up and if my said son Should dye before he arrives to the age of twenty one years, then what of my said Estate remains unexpended upon him I Give to my Sister in Law Experience Branch to her and her heirs forever, and I do hereby desire my mother in Law Mrs. Lydia Branch to take the Charge of my said Child and I do appoint her Executrix of this my Will, Witness my hand & Seal the 10th day of Novr- A.D. 1748

Signed Sealed Published &c                                                                                              James Howard junr.        (seal)

In Presence of

Thomas Spooner

Thomas Spooner jur.

Silvanus Morton

 

Presented for probate on 20 July 1749 by the Executrix therein named, and proved by Thomas Spooner and Thomas Spooner junr.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of James Howard jur., late of Plimouth, was taken by Silvanus Bramhall, John Torrey, and Ebenezer Spooner on 27 Sept. 1749, and totaled only £119.13.9 new tenour, no real estate.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 11, p. 307-309, from FHL microfilm #0551537.

 

 

Will of John Howard of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1789) *

In the name & fear of God the eleventh day of June in the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred & eighty nine, I John Howard of Bridgwater in the county of Plymouth & Commonwealth of Massachusetts bay, being in perfect mind and memory & thanks to God for & considering the uncertainty of Life & that all must die, do make this my Last will & testament that is, to give my soul into the hands of almighty God that gave it, and my body to the earth in a decent manner to be buried at the discretion of my Executor, nothing doubting but that I shall recieve the same again by the mighty power of God, & as what I possess I mean to dispose of in the following manner to wit

        To Abigail Howard my wife I give to improve if she out lives me during her widowhood the one half of my House, Barn and corn house & cellar to be improved by her, and one third of my improvement, as Long as she remains my widow & to have two Cows kept and to have at her command one half of the indoor moveables during her widowhood, except the guns & desk & my wearing apparell

        And to Ichabod Howard, I Give his boarding since he was 21 years old to the present day, and to give him five pounds towards building a house in materials for that purpose, also what I have helped him otherways in building of shops

        And to John & Alfred Howard my sons I Give my home place to be divided between them the meadow on Salisbury River the Land over the rive west, one third to be give to Adam Howard or the value of it. I also appoint John Howard my Executor, the Cedar swamps to John & Alfred Howards, also my right in the saw mill

        To Adam Howard I Give an equal right with John & Alfred in the pasture that was Brother Adam Howard’s, when paid for also Adam to have a right with John & Alfred in the widow Mary’s half of Adam Howards Estate deceased, when she is done with it

        To my Daughter Perkins I Give ten shillings

        To Kezia Howard my Daughter I Give one half of my indoor moveables except the guns & desk, the other half when their parents have done with them to be divided between Abigail Perkins & Kezia Howard. Kezia Howard to have a Cow, also if she lives to want it to be furnished convenient things to keep house with

        Sibell Howard my Grand child I order to have her maintenance ‘till she arrives to eighteen and if she lives to mature age to give her a yearling heifer and four shillings

        what stock out door moveables farming tools and guns I give to John & Alfred Howards that I may be possessed of the desk I give to Alfred Howard

        This I acknowlege to be my Last will & testament & do confirm the same to be my mind & will in health & possession of my rational powers—In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand & seal on the day and year above written

signed, sealed & declared by the said

John Howard as his Last will and                                                                                    John Howard    —            (seal)

testament in the presence of us the

subscribers

                Jesse Perkins

                Nathaniel Snell

                Robert Howard junr

 

Presented for probate on 7 Jan. 1793 by John Howard, the executor, and proved by Jesse Perkins & Nathl Snell, two of the witnesses.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 33, p. 247-248, from FHL microfilm #0550717.

 

 

Will of Jonathan Howard of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1807) *

  In the name of God amen I Jonathan Howard of Bridgwater in the County of Plymomouth Gentleman being of sound disposing Mind & Memory thanks be to God for the same, do this thirteenth day of June in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred & seven, make; publish; pronounce & declare this my last Will and Testament as followeth – viz

        Imprimis I will that all my just debts funeral charges & such Legacies as are herein after willed & given shall be paid by my Executors herein after named –

        Item. I give and bequeath to my daughter Elizabeth one Feather Bed Bedstead & Bed Furniture the same that she usually occupies, also one Cow & one third part of all my household Furniture & indoor moveables (excepting such particular Articles as are herein after otherwise given) one Silver Table Spoon & twenty five Dollars in Money, which money shall be paid her in one year after my decease, this with the provision which I have heretofore made for her Support I consider to be her full Share of my Estate —

        Item I give and bequeath to my Daughter Phebe the Wife of Daniel Manly one Feather bed, Bedstead & Bed Furniture also twenty five Dollars the Money to be paid her in one year after my decease —

        Item I give & bequeath to my Daughter Susanna the Wife of Josiah Lothrop junr. one Feather Bed, Bedstead & Bed furniture also twenty five Dollars, the Money to be paid in one year after my decease —

        Item I give & bequeath to my Daughter Rowene the Wife of Charles Lothrop one Feather Bed Bedstead & Bed Furniture, also forty Dollars, the Money to be paid in one year after my decease.

        Item I give & bequeath to my Son Galen my Silver Tankard —

        Item I give & bequeath to my Son Salmon my Clock —

        Item I give & bequeath to my two Sons Galen & Salmon one Feather Bed, Bedstead & Bed Furniture equally between them —

        And it is my Will that the Beds & Bed Furniture which I have given to my three daughters last named & the Bed & Furniture which I have given to my two Sons shall be equally divided for quality, as some of them are of a better quality than others —

        Item I give & bequeath to my three Sons viz Jonathan, Galen & Salmon all my wearing apparel to be equally divided between them —

        Item I give & bequeath to my Son Jonathan one Yoke of Oxen of a full Midelling Size & Flesh & one good draft chain to be delivered him in three Months after my decease —

        Item I give & bequeath to my three daughters viz Phebe the Wife of Daniel Manly Susanna the Wife of Josiah Lothrop junr. & Rowene the Wife of Charles Lothrop two thirds of all my household Furniture & indoor moveables first dividing & setting off to my Daughter Elizabeth, one third part, which I have herein before given her, & the residue not herein before specially willed & given, to be equally divided between them —

        And I do hereby ordain constitute & appoint my two Sons Galen Howard and Salmon Howard to be joint Executors of this my last will & Testament —

        And to enable my two Sons Galen & Salmon my said Executors to pay all my just debts, funeral Charges & all such Legacies as are herein before willed & given –

        I give & bequeath to them my said Sons Galen Howard & Salmon Howard their Heirs & assigns forever, one eighth part of the Saw Mill standing in the west precinct in said Bridgwater, commonly called & known by the Name of the Town Mill, also my Pew in the Congregational Meeting house in the west precinct in said Bridgwater together with with all my quick stock farming utensils not herein before specially given including all the rest & residue of my Estate (not herein before willed & given) of what name or Nature soever to be equally divided between them, they paying all my just debts funeral Charges & all such Legacies as are herein before willed & given —

        And I do hereby revoke disannul & render void all other & former Wills ratifying & confirming this & this only as & for my last will & Testament. In Witness whereof I the said Jonathan Howard the Testator have hereunto set my hand & seal the day & Year first above written —

signed sealed published pronounced & declared

by the said Jonathan Howard the Testator as

& for his last Will & Testament in the presence

of us who by his request & in his presence & we                                                          Jonathan Howard                            (seal)

in the presence of each other have hereunto

subscribed our Names as witness –

        Barnabas Dunbar

        Fisk Ames

        Danl. Snow –

 

Presented for probate on 5 June 1809 by Galen Howard and Salmon Howard, the Executors therein named, and proved by Fisk Ames and Daniel Snow Esqrs, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Galen Howard and Salmon Howard, the before named Executors.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 42, p. 538-539, from FHL microfilm #0550902.

 

 

Will of Joseph Howard of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1791) *

In the name of God amen – I Joseph Howard of Bridgwater in the county of Plymouth & Commonwealth of Massachusetts Gentleman, being of sound mind and memory, blessed be almighty God therefor, do this fourteenth day of July anno Domini one thousand, seven hundred ninety one make & ordain this my Last will & testament, in the following manner vizt.

Imprimis – I commend my soul into the hand of almighty God my Creator hoping to recieve the pardon of all my sins & salvation thro’ the merits of Jesus Christ my redeemer, and my body to the earth to be decently Interred according to the discretion of my executrix hereafter named, in hopes of a glorious resurrection unto Life eternal,  Relative to my worldly Interest my will is, that all my just debts & funeral charges be well & truly paid in convenient time after my decease, by my executrix herein after named

Also – I Give my beloved wife Sarah the improvement of all my real estate during her natural Life, and the use & improvement of all my Indoor moveables during her natural Life, and I Give to her free disposal of all the remainder of my personal estate of all kinds, including my Pew in the meeting house in the south parish in Braintree

Also – I Give to my son Silas or his heirs, all my real estate at the decease of my beloved wife aforesaid

Also – my will is, that at the decease of my beloved wife, all my indoor moveables be given to my four Daughters vizt Mercy Jones – Phebe Wales avis Thayer & Theodora Edson equally to them or their heirs share & share alike

Also – I Give, and my will is that my executrix shall pay to Josiah and Jonathan Hayward & Bettsey Brown children of my son Jonathan deceased, five shillings Lawful money each, as soon as convenient after my decease, and I do hereby appoint my beloved wife Sarah, to be my sole executrix to this my Last will & testament – In testimony whereof I do hereunto set my hand and seal the day and year above written

Signed, Sealed & delivered by me the sd

Joseph Howard, to be my Last will & tes-                                                                      Joseph Howard                                (seal)

tament, in presence of

                Barnabas Curtis

                Peres Southworth

                Jesse Perkins

 

Presented for probate on 7 May 1792 by Sarah Howard, the Executrix therein named, and proved by Barnabas Curtis and Jesse Perkins, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Sarah Howard, the before named executrix.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 33, p. 46-47, from FHL microfilm #0550717.

 

 

Will of Nathan Howard of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1799) *

  In the Name of God Amen. – I Nathan Howard of Bridgwater in the County of Plymouth, Esqr. do this Fourteenth day of October in the year of our Lord, one thousand, seven hundred & ninety nine, make & publish this my Last will & testament, in manner following, that is to say, first of all, I commend my soul to almighty God, who gave it, humbly trusting in his mercy, thro’ the merits of Jesus Christ for pardon, grace and a glorious & happy immortality; my body to be decently buried at the discretion of my Executor, herein after named, and as to my worldly interest I dispose of it, as follows – vizt.

  I Give, Devise & bequeath to my Son Nathan Howard junr. all the farm & lands whereon he now lives, containing about Sixty Four acres in Juniper swamp, so called, being the first I laid out at that place, also, my meadow lot on the northerly side of flaggy meadow, so called, also, my three acres & a half of land which I purchased of Nathan Willis, near cranbury meadow, so called, also one acre & a quarter of cedar swamp, on the south-westerly part of my lot of cedar swamp at the gore, so called, to be six rods wide at the westerly end, to extend easterly (a parrallel line with the south line of said lot) so far, as to include & comprehend, one acre & a quarter, to have & to hold all the above described pieces & parcells of lands, to him the said Nathan Howard junr. his heirs & assigns forever. I also give and bequeath to the said Nathan Dr. Watts’s works & all my wearing apparell forever. ~

          I Give, Devise & bequeath to my son Thaddeus Six acres of land, at the north easterly corner of my homestead farm, bounded, easterly & northerly by the high way, southerly by the stone wall, which stands to the northward of where the School house stood, and to extend westerly to include six acres, a parellel line with the highway, also four acres on the easterly side of the high way, bounded southerly by Doctr. Perkins’s land, easterly by Jonathan Copeland’s land, westerly by the high way, and to extend northerly, so far as to include four acres, the northerly line to be parrallel with Dr Perkins’s range, also four acres at the northerly end of the old field, so called, near Peres Williams’s, also my ten acres of land at the wolf trap (so called) also my five acres of meadow on the river, near John Hayward’s, also my three acres & a half of meadow on the town river, near Capt. Jona. Howard’s, also, all my right in the saw mill, and also, one eighth part of the purchase right, originally Thomas Whitman’s in the township of Bridgwater, to have & to hold all the above described estate to him the said Thaddeus, his heirs and assigns forever; I also give & bequeath to the said Thaddeus my Yoke of oxen, Cart & wheels, my Cart rope & my Bailey’s Dictionary forever, also my Desk & Pew in the meeting house forever –

    I Give, devise & bequeath to my son Gamaliel Howard my ten acres of land on the westerly side of the high way where he now lives, also, all my lands on the easterly side of the way, excepting the four acres at the southerly end herein bequeathed to my son Thaddeus, the remainder to the said Gamaliel being about eleven acres & lying opposite to his dwelling house, to have & to hold, to him the said Gamaliel, his heirs & assigns forever. I give & bequeath to the said Gamaliel my Silver hilted sword, my law book, also, one quarter part of the original purchase right of Nathaniel Willis, in the township of Bridgwater to hold forever

        I Give, devise, & bequeath to my son Bezaleal Howard, my three lots in the little cedar swamp, so called, in said Bridgwater being the 7th, 13th, & 14th Lots in number, to have & to hold, to him the said Bezaleal, his heirs & assigns forever. ~

        I Give & bequeath to my daughter Sarah Packard, the sole use occupation & improvement of my great chamber over my keeping room & a seat in my Pew in the meeting house, so long as she remains a feme sole & unmarried — I also give & bequeath to the said Sarah one Cow, my high case of drawers, two feather beds, bedsteads & furniture belonging to the same, my brass kettle, frying pan, five pewter platters, six pewter porringers, & warming pan, and all my pewter plates, also one dozen of chairs, one chest, one table, also, one half part of all the rest & residue of my household furniture, excepting my desk, clock, meat tubs & barrels, and what is herein given to my son Artemas to her the said Sarah to hold forever; also my gold sleeve buttons, to her the said Sarah forever, and my fire shovell & tongs forever.–

  I Give & bequeath to my daughter Jane Burr; the other half part of my houshold furniture, excepting as above excepted forever

  I Give, devise & bequeath to my two daughters, namely, Sarah Packard & Jane Burr, my two acres & half of medow at Snells meadow, so called, in said Bridgwater, to have & to hold in equal shares forever.

   I Give, devise & bequeath to my Son Jonathan Howard 2d. all my homestead lands & buildings (excepting the six acres at the north easterly corner, to my son Thaddeus as aforesaid) also my tan yard with the buildings appurtenant thereto, to him the said Jonathan, his hairs & assigns, to have & to hold forever. I also give & bequeath to the said Jonathan, my great bible, my eight day clock & my great Steel yards forever, also one third part of the original right of Francis Sprague in the township of Bridgwater, to have & to hold forever. I also give, devise & bequeath to the said Jonathan, all the remainder of my lands at the old field near Peres Williams’s, being about eleven acres, also, all my lands adjoining on the southerly side of dead meadow brook, so called, being about fourteen acres to have & to hold both the said pieces of land to him the said Jonathan, his heirs & assigns forever. –

        I Give, devise & bequeath to my three sons, namely, Jonathan, Gamaliel & Thaddeus, all the rest & residue of my lot of cedar swamp at the gore (excepting what is herein given to my son Nathan) also, all my wood lot adjoining Deacon Snell’s homestead farm, containing about thirty acres, also, all my wood lot on the easterly side of the way leading from the powder house to said Snell’s, containing about thirty acres, to have & to hold, to them, the said Jonathan, Gamaliel & Thaddeus, their heirs & assigns, in equal shares forever. –

   I Give, devise & bequeath to my two sons, namely, Jonathan & Gamalial, my two lots of meadow in Flaggy meadow, so called, also my twelve acre lot in Juniper swamp, so called, to have & to hold to them, the said Jonathan & Gamaliel, their heirs & assigns, in equal shares forever

        I Give, devise & bequeath to my two sons, namely, Jonathan & Thaddeus, all my lands adjoining on the northerly side of dead meadow brook, so called, being about fourteen acres, to have and to hold, to them, the said Jonathan & Thaddeus, in equal shares forever.–

        I Give & bequeath to my four sons, namely, Nathan, Jonathan, Gamaliel & Thaddeus, all my fire arms & farming utensills, (except my Cart & wheels) in equal shares forever.–

        I Give & bequeath to my three Sons, namely, Jonathan, Gamaliel & Thaddeus, all my meat tubs, barrells & Casks, in equal shares forever.

        And my will is, that my two sons, namely, Jonathan & Gamaliel, in consideration of what I have herein given & bequeathed to them, shall, each of them pay to my daughter, Sarah Packard, four dollars & fifty cents, yearly & every year, so long, as she remains a Feme sole & un-married. ~

        I Give and bequeath to my Son Artemas Howard, one Feather bed, bedstead & furniture belonging to the same, forever, and also, one silver spoon forever. And whereas the said Artemas is incapable of providing for himself, & manage property with that prudence & economy which is necessary for his subsistence; therefore my will is, that my son Jonathan shall take the said Artemas, under his care & direction, and provide for him (with his own assistance) a comfortable support, in sickness & in health, according to his condition, so long as he shall live. And I do hereby ordain, constitute & appoint the said Jonathan Howard 2d. Sole Executor of this my last will & testament; whom I order & direct to pay & satisfy (out of such personal estate as I shall leave at my decease, not in this will disposed of) all my just debts & funeral expences, and to erect grave stones at my grave, and after the payment of all my just debts & funeral charges, & erecting grave stones, as aforesaid & discharging all the legacies & bequests aforesaid; I Give, devise & bequeath, all the rest & residue of my estate, real personal or mixed, of what name or nature soever, to him, the said Jonathan Howard 2d. his heirs & assigns, to have & to hold forever. In Witness whereof, I have hereunto Set my hand & Seal, the day & year, first above written. –

Signed, Sealed, Published, Pronoun-

ced & declared, by the said Nathan How-                                                                      Nathan Howard                                (seal)

ard, the testator, as & for his last will &

testament, in presence of us

                Timothy Fobes

                Samuel Edson 3d.

                Daniel Howard 3d

                Daniel Howard

 

Presented for probate on 28 Oct. 1800 by Jonathan Howard ye 2d, the Executor therein named, and proved by Timothy Fobes and Daniel Howard Esqr, two of ye. witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Jonathan Howard ye 2d, yeoman, the before named Executor, with Daniel Howard, Esqr. and Timothy Fobes, yeoman, all of Bridgwater, as sureties.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 37, p. 335-338, from FHL microfilm #0550719.

 

 

Will of Parnel Howard of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1819) *

                In the name of God amen I Parnel Howard of Bridgwater in the County of Plymouth widow, being of sound disposing Mind & Memory, but weak & infirm in Body & considering the uncertainty of Life & certainty of Death, do make & publish this my last will & Testament in manner following.—

                Imprimis I give to my three Sons, Thomas, George & Sidney one Dollar each –

                Item I give to my Daughter Abigail the Wife of Solomon Reed one young Cow, I reserve however the use & Improvement of said Cow untill November next for my unmarried Daughters.—

                Item whereas by the will of my late Husband deceased, Thomas Howard my Son had a large Share of his Estate provided & upon Condition that the said Thomas supported our minor Children, and whereas I have supported said minor Children & charged the said Thomas for the same, – I therefore give my Son Franklin whatever may be obtained of the said Thomas for & on account of my supporting him, & which I have ordered to be charged amounting to five hundred & fifty six Dollars & twenty five Cents.—

                Item as I have also supported my Daughters Betsey & Patty & as my Son Thomas is indebted to me for the same, which I have directed to be charged & which charge amounts to the Sum of nine hundred & three Dollars & twenty eight Cents, I hereby give that Sum or whatever may be obtained of the said Thomas for their Support to my Daughters Parney, Betsey and Patty to be equally divided between them—

                Item Whereas I have boarded the Children of Asa Whitman & clothed them I have ordered to be charged against the said Asa the Sum of two hundred & eighty nine Dollars, & I give the aforesaid Sum, or whatever may be obtained, of the said Whitman to Deborah Whitman, Patty Bartlett, Susanna Bartlett & Jane Bartlett my Grand children– & I give the one half of the same to the said Deborah & the other Moiety to the said Patty, Jane & Susanna & I order & direct my Executor to pay the same to each of my said Grandchildren & the Interest on the same when they may respectively arrive to the Age of eighteen years.—

                Item I give & bequeath to my Daughters Abigail the Wife of Solomon Reed Parney, Betsey & Patty all the Residue & Remainder of my Estate (not specifically given as above) of what name or nature soever & wherever found to be equally divided between them ~~

                I hereby appoint David Bartlett sole Executor of this my last Will & Testament hereby revoking all former Wills by me made— In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand & seal this twenty eighth day of May, in the Year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred & nineteen. —

Signed sealed published pronounced by the                                                                   Parnel Howard                                (seal)

Said Parnel Howard as her last will & Testament

in the presence of us who by her Request &

in her presence & the presence of each other have

hereunto set our Names as Witnesses —

                Jonathan Snell

                Nahum Leonard

                Damon Kingman

 

Presented for probate on 2 Aug. 1819 by David Bartlett, the Executor therein named, and proved by Nahum Leonard and Damon Kingman, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to David Bartlett, the before named Executor.

No inventory of her estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 50, p. 279-281, from FHL microfilm #0550906.

 

 

Will of Robert Howard of Bridgewater, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1768) *

                                                In The name of God Amen ~,

        The twentieth day of June in the year of our Lord One thousand, seven hundred & Sixty Eight, I Robert Howard of Bridgwater in the county of Plymouth being in perfect mind and memory, thanks be to God therefor calling unto mind the mortality of my body, and knowing that it is appointed for all men once to Dye Do make and Ordain this my Last will and testament, that is to say principally and first of all I Give and recommend my soul into the hand of God that Gave it and my body I Recommend to the Earth to be buried in decent manner at the discretion of my Executor nothing doubting but at the Resurrection I shall Recieve the same again by the mighty power of God and as touching such worldly Estate wherewith it has pleased God to bless me in this Life, I Give and demise and dispose of the same in the following manner and form

Imprimis—I Give unto Abigail Howard my wife, one third part of the whole of my improvement of my homestead during her Life, and the south half of my house and the milk Room in the north west corner of the house with half the Cellar and half the Barn & Corn house during her Life, I Give unto her two Cows and my mare, and one third part of my Indoor moveables to be at her disposing as she shall think fit Excepting my Desk and Gun and wearing apparell ~

Item—I Give unto my Son John Howard whom I constitute and appoint Executor of this my Last will and testament, I Give unto him the south half of the Lower meadow on Salisbury plain River, with the south half of all my homestead extending so far eastward as to the meadow fence on the west Side of the meadow on trout Brook, I also Give unto him one third part of my Right in the saw mill, and one third part of all my Cedar swamps, and I order you to pay to your Brother Daniel Howard when he comes of age the sum of thirty pounds in such materials as he shall call upon you for his Building and at such a price as he can buy for his money

Item—I Give unto my Son Robert Howard, the north half of my Lower meadow on Salisbury plain River, and the north half my homestead Extending so far Eastward as to the meadow fence, on the west side of the meadow on trout brook, I also Give unto him one third part of all my right in the Saw mill, and One third part of all my Cedar swamps, and I order you to pay to your Brother Daniel Howard thirty pounds in such materials as he shall call upon you for suitable for his Building him a house and at such a price as he can buy for money – I also order you to find your mother fire wood at the Door, Cut suitable for her fire during her Life

Item—I Give unto my son Adam Howard, all the Land where he Liveth and the north half of my meadow on Salisbury plain River in Stoughton ~

Item—I Give to my son Daniel Howard all the East End of all my homestead Extending so far westward as to the meadow fence on the west side of the meadow on trout Brook I also Give unto him One third part of my Right in the Saw-mill, and one third part of all my Cedar swamps, I Give unto him one Cow and one mare Colt of three years old and the south half of my meadow in Stoughton and my Right in Pine timber bought of Capt. Curtis, I Give unto him my Desk & Gun and one Quarter of a pew in the meeting house in the front Gallery

Item—I Give unto my daughter Martha Edson, the one half of all my Lands in Easton, and one third part of all my Indoor moveables after her mother’s decease Excepting my Desk & Gun and wearing Apparell ~

Item—I Give unto my daughter Betty Howard, one third part of all my Indoor moveables Excepting my Desk and Gun and wearing Apparell, I Give unto her one Cow, and the one half of all my Lands in Easton—the Remainder of my out door moveables, and my wearing Apparell I Give to my four sons to be equally divided between them –

and I do utterly disallow Revoke and disannull all and every Other former testament, will, Legacies, and Bequests, and Executor by me in any wayes before named, willed and Bequeathed, Ratifying and confirming this and no other to be my Last will and testament—In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and Seal the day and year above written

Signed, Sealed, published, pronounced

and declared by the said Robert Howard                                                                        Robert Howard                                (seal)

as his Last will and testament in the

presence of us the subscribers ~

                Daniel Howard

                Jabez Field

                Charles Snell ~

 

Presented for probate on 6 Sept. 1779 by John Howard, the Executor therein named, and proved by Jabez Field, one of the witnesses thereto subscribed, Daniel Howard and Charles Snell being since deceased. Letters of Administration were granted to John Howard, the before named Executor.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Robert Howard, late of Bridgewater, was appraised on 21 Sept. 1779 by Barnabas Howard, John Staples Craft, and Jesse Perkins, and totaled £29,210.18, his real estate valued at £23,220, including his homestead farm and buildings valued at £18,000, his Lansford farm valued at £5850, his Easton lot valued at £3400, and his Stoughton meadow lot valued at £700. John Howard, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 9 Apr. 1780.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 25, p. 351-353, from FHL microfilm #0550713.

 

 

Will of Robert Howard of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1805) *

  In the Name of God amen the eight day of March in the Year of our Lord one Thousand eight hundred & five, I Robert Howard of Bridgwater in the County of Plymouth Yeoman enjoying a comfortable State of Health & of sound Mind & Memory Thanks be given to God: Therefore calling to Mind the Mortality of my Body & knowing that it is appointed for all men once to die, do make & ordain this my last Will & Testament, that is to say principally & first of all, I give and recommend my Soul into the Hands of God who gave it & my Body I recommend to the Earth to be buried in a decent manner at the discretion of my Executors, nothing doubting but at the general Resurrection, I shall receive the same again by the mighty power of God – and touching such worldly Estate, wherewith it has pleased God to bless me in this Life, I give demise & dispose of in the following Manner & form.

                Imprimis I give & bequeath to my wife Abigail Howard, the Improvement of one third part of my Homestead farm with the Improve ment of half my Dwelling house reserving however out of said half) a privilege for my Daughter Silva Howard to live with her) with half my Barn & half my Corn house & half the Cellar for & during the term of her natural Life. I also give her two Cows, six sheep all my indoor moveables & Household Furniture (except my Clock, Desk wearing Apparel & Looms & Implements of Weaving) with all the notes of hand & Securities for Money that I may have at the time of my decease, to be at her disposal, as she shall think proper. I also hereby enjoin on & order my Son Robert Howard to find his Mother at all times so long as she shall remain my widow with a sufficiency of firewood drawn to the door of her House & cut suitable for her Fire —

                Item I give to my Son Zechariah Howard ten Dollars to be paid him in one Year after my decease, also the one half of my wearing apparel —

                Item I give & bequeath to my Son Robert Howard (whom I constitute and appoint Executor of this my last Will & Testament) all my Homestead farm also my right in the Saw Mill with the appurtenances thereunto belonging also the easterly half of my Pew in the Meeting house in the North precinct of Bridgwater, to him his Heirs & Assigns forever, I also give him all my farming tools & Implements of Husbandry, Clock, Desk & the one half of my wearing Apparel —

                Item I give & bequeath to my Daughter Silva Howard one Hundred Dollars to be paid her in one year after my decease, I also give her one Horse & one Cow, I also give her the privilege of living in the House with her Mother & setting at her fire so long as she the said Silva remains single & unmarried, I also give her after her Mother’s decease, the use & Improvement of the North room in my House & the Chamber over the same, also the North Bedroom & one of the Butteries or Milk rooms with a privilege in the Kitchen, to wash and bake, also a part of the Cellar, and a right in the orchard to take as many apples & have as much Cyder as she needs for her own Consumption I also give her my Looms & weaving Implements. I also enjoin it upon my Son Robert to find her the said Silva a Sufficiency of fire wood cut & drawn to the Door of the house to keep one fire so long as she remains single & unmarried —

                Item I give to my Daughter Hannah Silvester, one hundred Dollars to be paid her in one Year after my decease —

                Item I give and bequeath to my Daughter Abigail Sturtevant the Land with all the Buildings thereon which I purchased of her Husband Ephraim Sturtevant whereon they now live, I also give her one hundred Dollars to be her in one year after my decease –

                Item I give to my Daughter Lucinda Cheeseman one hundred Dollars to be paid her in one year after my decease —

                And furthermore I give to my four Daughters before named in equal shares the westerly half of my pew in the north meeting house in Bridgwater —

                And I hereby order & enjoin it upon my Son Robert Howard to pay the five before mentioned Legacies or Sums of Money, to wit, one of ten Dollars & four of one hundred Dollars each & all my just debts & funeral Expences & Costs & Charges of settling my Estate out of his own proper Estate —

                The Residue & remainder of all my Estate which I may have at the time of my decease I give to my Son Robert Howard —

                And I do hereby utterly disallow, revoke & disannul all & every other former Testaments, Wills, Legacies & bequests & Executors by me in any ways before named willed & bequeathed ratifying & Confirming this & no other to be my last Will & Testament –  In witness whereof I the said Robert Howard have hereunto set my hand and Seal the day & year first above written —

signed sealed published pronounced

and declared by the said Robert Howard

as his last will & Testament in the pres-

ence of us the subscribers ~                                                                                               Robert Howard                                (seal)

                Daniel Howard junr.

                Darius Howard

                Damaris Howard

 

Presented for probate on 7 March 1808 by Robert Howard, the Executor therein named, and proved by Daniel Howard junr Esqr. and Darius Howard, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Robert Howard, the before named Executor.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 42, p. 258-260, from FHL microfilm #0550902.

 

 

Will of Azor Howe of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1841) *

In the name of God Amen I Azor Howe of Bridgewater in the County of Plymouth, being advanced in years and suffering under some indisposition of body, but through the blessing of God being of sound mind and memory, do this twenty eighth day of February in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and forty one, make and ordain this my last will and Testament, in manner following that is to say, I give and bequeath unto my well beloved wife Ruth to her disposal my dwelling house barn wood house and hogs house, together with all my personal property of every description including my pension.

And I do now constitute ordain and appoint Capt. Jabez Harden my sole executor of this my last will and Testament.

In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal the day and year first named.

                                                                                                                                                Azor Howe                                         (seal)

  Signed, Sealed published and declared by the Testator as his last Will and Testament, in the presence of us, who in his presence and in presence of each other hereunto set our names as Witnesses at his request

                                                                                                                                                Solomon Hayward

                                                                                                                                                Benjamin Bryant

                                                                                                                                                Ophir Howe

 

Presented for probate on the last Tuesday of May 1842 by Jabez Harden, the Executor therein named, and proved by Benjamin Bryant and Ophir Howe, two of the witnesses.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 84, p. 238-240, from FHL microfilm #0555267.

 

 

Will of Sarah Howes of Yarmouth, Colony of New Plymouth (1683) *

I Sarah Howes the Relict of Capt Thomas Howes of yarmouth in New Plymouth Deceased being weake in body but of perfect understanding & memory Do this 26 Day of february 1682/3 make this my Last will & Testament as followeth, first my Soul I bequeath to god that gave it me, and my body to the grave in Decent buriall and for my two young Children my will is that my Son Jonathan shall have forty shillings to be improved for his teaching to read write and Cipher & yt in Convenient time he be at ye Discretion of ye overseers to my Late husbands will, put to learne some Sutable Trade, & my will is yt my Daughter Sarah Do live with her Sister Rebecka and that she shall have twenty shillings to be improved for her more perfecting in reading & also my will is yt Elyzabeth Sparrow yt now Dwells with me shall have twenty shillings of my Estate, and yt after my Just Debts be paid that then what remains of my Estate shall be equally Devided to my fower Children viz: Thomas, Jonathan, Rebeckah and Sarah; Lastly my will is & I Do request my Loveing Bretheren Jeremiah Howes and Jonathan Baings whome I Do appoint Constitute impower to be executors to this my will; in witnes whereof I have here set my hand & Seal ye Day & year above written.                                                                                                                                                                                    The mark of

Signed sealed in presence of                                                                                             Sarah Howes        ð              (seal)

                John Thacher

                Jonathan Russell

 

It was also ye will of ye above said Sarah Howes Widdow yt her two Daughters Rebeckah & Sarah should have her Aparrell equally Devided betwixt them two, though I mist them to enter it in ye will above written                                                                                                John Thacher

on ye oath of Mr John Thacher acknowledged in Court

Attested pr be Nathaniell Morton Secretary

 

Mr Jonathan Russell above mentioned made oath also to ye prbate of this fore mentioned Will this 3 of Aprill 1683

                                                                                                                                Before me Tho. Hinckley Gov,r

 

An Inventory of ye estate Mrs Sarah Howes ye Relict of Capt Thomas Howes both Deceased taken this 17 of March 82/3 by us—

[Totaled £195.02.11, including oxen, cows and cattle, but no real estate]

                                                                                                                                Joseph Howes

                                                                                                                                Garsham Hall

                                                                                                                on ye oath of Mr Jerimiah Howes

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth Colony Records, Wills Vol. 4, Part 2, p. 37-38.

 

 

Will of Abraham Howland of Pembroke, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1747) *

In the Name of God amen, The fifteenth day of June anno Domini, One thousand seven hundred & forty seven I Abraham Howland of Pembrooke in the County of Plimouth in the province of the Massachusets bay in NewEngland Yeoman, being of perfect Mind & memory, Thanks be to god for the same Calling to mind the Mortallity of my body and knowing that it is Appointed for all men once to die; Do make & ordain this my last will & Testament, that is to say Principally and first of all, I give & recomend My Soul into the hands of God that gave it hopeing through the Merits death and Passion of my Lord Death & Passion of my Lord & Saviour Jesus Christ, to have (all & free Pardon and forgiveness of all my Sins, & to inherit Everlasting life, and by body I commit to the Earth to be decently Buried, at the discretion of my Executrix hereafter Named trusting that at the Resurrection I Shall receive the same again by the Mighty power of God. And as for such worldly Estate as it hath pleased God to bless me with I Give demise & dispose of the Same in the following manner & form —

First, I will that my Just debts and funeral Charges be paid & discharged by my Executrix hereafter Named. —

Item I Give & bequeath unto my Son Rouse Howland (besides that which I have already given him by Deed of Gift, which I do hereby ratyfie & Confirm to him) five Shillings, old tenour to be paid in some Convenient time after my decease by my Executrix hereafter named.

Item, I give and bequeath unto my son Abraham Howland (besides What I have already Given him by Deed of Gift, which I also hereby ratyfie & Confirm unto him) five Shillings old tenour to be paid him in some convenient time after my decease by my Executrix hereafter named.

I Give and bequeath unto my son Samuel Howland, & his heirs my Dwelling house Barne and fifty acres of land more or less, About the sd. House and Barne with all the priviliges & Appurtenances thereunto belonging, bounded as follows, viz, Westerly by the Land formerly Isaac Thomass. deceasd, Southerly by the land Given by me to my son Rouse Howland, Easterly partly by Mequon Pond so called and partly by the land of Josiah Foster and Northerly by the land I have given to my son Abraham Howland My said son Samuel Howland paying Yearly to Ann Howland his Mother dureing her Natural life, Sixteen Bushels of Indian Corne Four Bushels of Rye, and two Bushels of Wheat, also half the Flax raised on the place, yearly ready dressed, also a third part of the Cyder that is made yearly, he finding barrels to put it in, and as many Apples & Pares, as his said Mother Shall have Occation for. Also tis my Will that my said son Samuel find his mother her fire wood at the Door and Summer and winter for her Two Cows & ten sheep and if She sees cause to buy her and horse, to keep him also for her both summer & Winter, and to find her Yearly as Much Beef and Porke as She shall have Occation for. And I do hereby (notwithstanding the Beforementioned bequest made to my son Samuel) Except and reserve a Liveing in the house Aforesd. To my wife Ann Howland dureing her Natural life, that is to say, such a part of it, as She shall see cause to make use of, And it is my Mind & will also, that my son Joseph Howland Shall have a liveing in my now dwelling house as long as He Shall live if he sees cause, But not to put any Tenant in to it under him —

Furthermore it is my Mind & Will, That Benjamin Hill formerly my Servant Shall also have a liveing in my sd. Dwelling house (if he sees cause) dureing life, but no Liberty to put any Tenant into it in his Stead or room –

Item I Give and bequeath unto my said son Joseph Howland ten Shillings lawfull money to be paid in some Convenient time after my decease by my Executrix hereafter Named. —

Item, I Give & Bequeath unto my Son Benjamin Howland, forty Shillings, old tenour, to be paid in some convenient time after my decease by my Executrix hereafter Named —

Item I Give unto my Daughter Sarah Dawes the sum of ten shillings in Lawfull money, to be paid by my Executrix in some Convenient time after my decease —

Item I Give to my daughter Elizabeth Bonney the sum of ten Shillings lawfull Money to be paid by my Executrix in Some convenient time after my death.

Item I Give unto my Grand Daughter Mary Mitchel the sum of five Shillings lawfull money to be paid her by my Executrix —

Item I Give unto my Grandson Jonathan Mitchel, the sum of five Shillings lawfull money to be paid by my Executrix —

Item, I Give unto my Grandson Howland Beals the sum of ten shillings lawful money to be paid by my Executrix afternamed in some Convenient time after my decease. —

Item I Give & bequeath unto my well beloved wife Ann Howland all my Cedar Swamp Excepting that which I have by Deed given to my son Rouse, together with all the remainder of my Estate not disposed of in this will both within Doors & without; all my Goods, Stock, Debts, and whatever else it be that I Shall dye seized of to be by my said wife im proved and Disposed of, when where & to whomsoever She shall think fit & proper; She first paying my Just debts and all the Legacies by me given in this my Last will —

Finally I do hereby Ordain Constitute and appoint my well beloved wife Ann Howland full & Sole Executrix of this my last will and Testament and I do hereby revoke disanul & make void all former Wills & Testaments by me heretofore made, declareing this Only to be my Last will & Testament.  In Witness Whereof I the said Abraham Howland to this my last will and Testament have Set My hand & Seal the day & year first above written —

Pronounced & Declared by the

said Abraham Howland to be

his Last will & Testament in                                                                                             Abraham Howland                          (seal)

the presence of us the Subscribers

Nehemiah Cushing

D. Lewis

Elisabeth Lewis

 

Presented for probate on 3 Aug. 1747 by the Execrx. therein named, and proved by Nehemiah Cushing, Mr. Daniel Lewis & Elisabeth Lewis, the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Ann Howland of Pembrooke, Widdow Executrix, on 3 Aug. 1747, with Daniel Lewis Clerk and Nehemiah Cushing Gent., all of Pembrooke, as sureties.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 10, p. 468-471, from FHL microfilm #0551535.

 

 

Will of Thomas Howland of Plymouth, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1739) *

In the Name of God Amen. The first Day of October in the Year of our Lord one Thousand Seven Hundred and Thirty nine I Thomas Howland of Plimouth in the County of Plimouth Gentm, being Weak and of an Infirm Body, but of a Perfect, Sound and Disposeing Minde and Memory, Thanks be given to God therefor Calling unto minde ye Mortallity of my Body, and knowing yt it is Appointed for all men once to Dye, do make and Ordain this my last Will and Testament That is to Say ~~

        Imprimiss, First and Principally I give my Soul into the Hands of God who gave it, and for my Body I Commend it to the Earth to be Buried in a Christian and Decent Manner at the Discreation of my Execrs. hereafter named; And as Touching such Worldly Estate, where with it hath pleased God to Bless me in this Life, I give, Divise, Bequeath and Dispose the Same in Manner and form following vizt—

                My Will is that all my Just Debts and Funerall Charges be well and Truly payed

                I give unto my Dear and beloved Wife Joanna Howland The whole and Sole Use and Improvement of my whole Estate both Reall and Personall, Dureing the Term of her Natural Life

                I give Unto my Son Consider Howland all the Right Title and Interest that I have unto a Garden Lott yt is in his Improvement and Inclousier, and Lyeth adjoyning to my Garden, on ye Easterly Side thereof, and on ye Backside of the House Wherein Capt Charles Dyre and my Brother Nathll Howland now Dwell, To him, and his Heirs forever~ I give unto him and his Heirs for ever Two thirds of the Land that I have which lyeth on sd North Side of New Street so Called and is Bounded on ye North by ye Land of Thomas Holmes and James Hovey, on ye West and South West on ye Main Street, or Road, and on ye East End by the Bay or Harbour. (Excepting one House Lott, which I have hereafter Disposed off, He to have the Lands on the Northerly Side thereof, I do further Give unto my Son Consider, one halfe of the Land that I have at Rocky-Nook to him and his Heirs forever—

                Item. I Give unto him and his Heirs forever, one half of the Land that I have at a Place Called Nicks Rocks; I further give unto him all the Land that I have a aplace Called the fresh Lake, and about Twenty Acres yt I have at Cobbs Hill. I Also give unto him the one Halfe of my Right in a Ceader Swamp lying in Plimton neer to Nathl Jacksons, all the afore granted, and given Premises I give unto my sd Son Consider, to Him, and his Heirs forever. to his and their only proper Use and behoof forever always Excepting and Reserveing the whole and Sole use and Improvement of the Same to my Wife Joanna Howland Dureing her Naturall Life. I further give to my sd Son all the Land, or Marshey Ground that I have that Lyeth below the Bank from the place Called the Brickills to Deacon Woods Lands ~

                I give unto my Son Thomas Howland to him and his Heirs forever, my Dwelling House where in I now Dwell, with the Garden, and Also all the Land that I have on the Southerly Side of The New Street (Except what I shall here after Dispose off) to him and his Heirs forever I give to him and his Heirs forever the one halfe the Land I have at Rocky Nook; and one halfe the Land I have at Nicks Rocks, I also give to him and his Heirs forever all the Rights and Interests that I have in ye Majors Purchase in And whereas I Sometime also gave unto my sd Son Thomas a Deed of halfe that Land Commonly Called my Meadow ground and he has severall times Since Advanced Considerable Sums of Money, for me (the sd Meadow ground Lyeth between the Land of Collo. Lothrop Esqr. and the Land that belongs to the Heirs of Nicholas Drew late of Plimouth Deceased.) I do now give unto my son Thomas, the other halfe of sd Land or Meadow Ground to him, and his Heirs for ever; in Consideration Where of I do oblige him my sd Son to pay unto my sd Son Joseph Howland the Sum of Eighty Pounds in good Bills of Publick Creditt within the Space of two years after the Decease of my selfe, and Wife; and I do further Oblige him my sd Son to pay to me or my Wife, the Sum of Two Hundred Pounds with what he hath already Paid when ever the Same Shall be Demanded, either by me, or my sd Wife. All the aforegiven, and Granted Premises I do give unto my sd Son Thomas to him and his Heirs for Ever. to his and their alone Proper Use, & Behoof for ever. Always Excepting and Reserveing the whole and Sole Use and Improvement of the Same to my Wife Joanna Dureing her Naturall Life, I also give to my Son Thomas halfe the Lott, whereon the Barn now Stands with halfe the Barn, sd Lott being fifty five feet Front and ninety five foot Back, to him and his Heirs forever

                I give unto my Son Joseph Howland, to him and his Heirs forever, halfe the Lott whereon the Barn now Stands with halfe the Barn, sd Lott being Fifty five feet Front and ninety feet back, I also give to him and his Heirs forever one Third part of the Land I have Lyeing on ye North side of the new Street so Called, Bounded On the North by the Land of Thomas Holmes, and James Hovey, on the West by the Main Street or Road, on ye South by sd New Street, and ye East End by the Bay The Other two Thirds I have already given to my Son Consider Howland; I also give unto him, and his Heirs forever my Wood Lott, being about Forty Acres, and Lyes Adjoyning to ye Land of Samuell King and so on ye Road to Middlebourough, I also give to him and his Heirs forever, one halfe of my Ceader Swamp that I have in Plimton Lying neer to the Land of Nathl Jackson All the above given and Granted Premises, I give unto him my sd Son Joseph Howland, to Him, and his Heirs forever Always Excepting and Reserveing the whole Use & Improvemt. of the Same to my Wife Joanna Dureing her Naturall Life

                And whereas I formerly gave to my Daughter Experience Lothrop the Wife of Mr Benja. Lothrop a House Lott, I do now give to her the Sum of Ten Pounds, to be paid her by my sd Son Thomas within a Year after my Deacease.

                I give to my Daughter Elizabeth Howland to her & her Heirs forever, one House lott vizt Sixty feet Front, and ninety Feet Back lying on ye Main Street neer to James Hovey, to be Taken out of the Land that I have given to my Son Consider, I further give to my sd Daughter Twenty Pounds to be paid her by her Brother Consider at the Deacease of their Mother, To her and her Heirs forever.

                I give to my Daughter Hannah Dyre the Wife of William Dyre one House Lott being Sixty feet Front & Ninety feet Back Lyeing on the North Side of the New Street; and it lyeth between Deacon John Atwoods and Timothy Mortons Land, to Her, and her Heirs for Ever—

                I give to my Daughter Joanna Howland one House lott being Ninety feet Back & Sixty feet Front and it Lyeth on the North Side of the New Street, Adjoyning to the Land that belongs to the Heirs of Ephraim Cole late of Plimouth Deaceased. I further give to my sd Daughter, Twenty Pounds to be paid her by my Son Thomas at the Deacease of their Mother To her & her Heirs forever—

I give to my Grand Son Southworth Howland the one Halfe of my Brick Shopp with halfe the Land it Stands on, to him, and his Heirs forever, when he Shall arrive at the age of Twenty one Years, ~ And the other halfe of sd Shopp and the Land it Stands on, I give and Bequeath unto my Two Sons Thomas and Joseph, to be Equally Divided between them; I give to them & their Heirs forever—

                I give to my three Sons vizt. Consider, Thomas and Joseph, all my Right in the Common Land, Equally to be Divided between them after my Deacease, and the Deacease of my Wife, ~ I do further give unto them, my sd Three Sons, all the Right, title and Interest that I have unto any Lands, or Meadows that I have in the Town of Plimouth, or else where (which is not heretofore Disposed off, in this my last Will and Testament.) Equally to be Divided between them, To them and their Heirs forever.

                I give unto my Beloved Wife Joanna Howland all my In Door Moveables to her only Use and behoof forever and also I give unto her my sd Wife the whole of My Moveable Estate, I give unto my sd Wife the whole of my Personall Estate, To her and her Heirs forever—

                I give unto my Two Daughters Elisabeth Howland and Joanna Howland the Improvement of one Roome in my Dwelling House that Shall be Convenient for them as Long as theay shall Remain Unmarried

                I give unto my Wife Joanna Howland and to my two sons Consider Howland, and Thomas Howland all the Debts that are Due to me from any Person, or Persons whatsoever, and I do Oblige them my sd Wife & my two Sons Consider and Thomas to pay my Funerall Charges and all my Just Debts that are Due from me to any Person, or Persons ~ whatsoever.

                Futhermore. It is my minde & Will, that if my sd Son Consider Howland shall endeavor to make Void and to Break this my last Will, either by Petition to the Govournour and Councill, or by Bringing of an Action at the Common Law, or by any other Ways and Means whatsoever; then it is my Will that he be Entirely Cutt off, and Forfeit any Right, or Title to any of the aforementioned Premisses that I have Given him. (Excepting the Garden Lott, that is Adjoyning to my Garden, on the Easterly Sides and lyes on ye Back side of that House wherein Charles Dyre and my Brother Nathl Howland now Dwells). And in Case he doth Endeavor to break my sd Will as aforesd; then I give and bequeath what I have heretofore given Him in this my sd Will, to my two Sons Thomas and Joseph to them, And their Heirs forever—

                Finally I Constitute and appoint my Wife Joanna Howland, and my two sons Consider Howland and Thomas Howland, Joynt Executors of this my last Will and Testament Revoaking all others by me heretofore made. In Wittness whereof I have hereunto set my Hand and Seal the Day first mentioned.

                                                                                                                                                Thomas Howland                            (seal)

Signd, Seald, published, Pronouncd & Declared

by the sd Thomas Howland to

be his last Will & Testament

In Preasance of

Isaac Lothrop

Mellitiah Lothrop

Edward Winslow

 

Probated on 29 Dec. 1739, and proved by Isaac Lothrop Esqr, Messrs Mellitiah Lothrop and Edward Winslow, the Witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Joanna Howland and Thomas Howland, the Widow and Son of the deceased, two of the Executors, on 29 Dec. 1739.

 

Necessarys set off to Mrs Joanna Howland widow of Thomas Howland of Plymouth, Deceas’d, on 18 Apr. 1741 totaled £45.19.9.

 

The Inventory of the Goods, Chattles and Estate both Real and Personall of Mr. Thomas Howland late of Plymo., Deceased, was appraised by James Warren, Isaac Lothrop junr. and Nathll. Thomas, but not dated, totaled £1413.15.9, including his homestead land and building valued at £960. Joanna Howland, the Executrix, gave her oath to the inventory on 17 Apr. 1741. Debts demanded of the estate totaled £693.1.2.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 8, pp. 135-140, 313-317, from FHL microfilm #0551531.

 

 

Will of Daniel Hudson of Bridgewater, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1749) *

In the Name of God Amen June 2d. Day in the Fifteenth year of His Majesties Reign Annoque Domini 1749.– I Daniel Hudson of Bridgwater in the County of Plimouth in New England Gentleman Calling To Mind the appointment of God for all men once to Die in which my own frailty and Mortality is Comprehended and Being now of a perfect mind and memory Do therefore proced To make my Last Will and Testement in the First place I committ my Soul to God the Great Author & Giver of it and My Body to the Dust to Be bured in a Christain Manner at the Discretion of my Executor hereafter named in Hope through Christ of a Glorious Resuretion and Concerning the Things which the Infinite God hath Hath Ben Pleased to Bless Me With all appertaining to the pressent Life Do Dispose of them in the following manner viz. Impimis, my Will is that my funeral Charges and all Other Lawfull Debts in a proper and Conveneant Time Time after my Decease Be Discharged

I Give and Bequeath unto my well Beloved Wife Abigail the one third of the improvment of my Homsted agreable To the Obligation I Give Her Before Marrage –

I Give unto My Daughter Mary the Wife of Isaac Lazell the Best of my Beds that is to say one of them with the Bedstead Cord and under Bed one Coverlad one Blankett and Two Sheets and all my Pewter Brass Iron Potts Kittles Skillets pudden pan Fier Tongs and Shovel and one Trammel also I Give unto my Said Daughter Mary Her Heirs and assigns forever a Certain peice of Land which I Have in Community with Hezekiah Hayward Lying By the Land of Joshua Willis junr.— Item: I Give unto my son Daniel His Heirs and assigns forever all my Lands where his Dwelling House now Standing and all my Lands to the North and East of of Thomas Hoopers Land also I give and Bequeath unto my Said Son Daniell One Half of My Right in the ceder Swamp and also a piece of Land Lying at the South End of Thomas Hoopers Land also I Give unto my Son Daniel the Second Choice of my Beds that is one of them with the Bed Sted and Cord one Coverlad one Blanket Two Sheets and under Bed Belonging To it and also one Equal Half of My Wearing Cloath’s –

Item. I Give unto My Son William whome I make the Soule Executor of this my Last Will and Testement to Him His Heirs and assigns forever my Home place that is the Tract of Land where my Dwelling House now Stands With the Buldings on it and twelve acres of Land which I Bought of Timothy Washburn also one Half of my Right in the Ceder Swamp also I give unto my Said Son William the one Half of my Wearing Cloathes and all my other Estate whether Real or Personal Which I have not Before Mentioned or Disposed of – In Testimony whereof I have Hereunto Set My Hand and Seal the Day and year aforesaid —

Signed Sealed published pronounced

Delivered & Decelaird By the Said Daniel                                                                     David [sic] Hudson                         (seal)

Hudson as His Last Will and Testement

In the Presents of us –

Jonathan Cary

Moses Orcutt

Josiah Edson jur.

Benja. Willis junr.

Samuel Kinsley

 

Presented for probate on 1 Apr. 1751 by the Executor therein named, and proved by Josiah Edson jur. and Benja. Willis junr., two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to William Hudson, of Bridgewater, the Executor, on 1 Apr. 1751.

 

Josiah Edson junr. Esqr. and Benja. Willis Gentm. both of Bridgewater, were sureties on the bond of William Hudson yeoman, of Bridgewater, as Executor of the estate of Daniel Hudson, late of Bridgewater, Gentm, deceased.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 12, pp. 299-301, 378, from FHL microfilm #0551539, the probate court clerk copied the signature of Daniel Hudson as David Hudson.

 

 

Will of Daniel Hudson of Bridgewater, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1773) *

In the Name of God Amen~ on the Twelfth Day of March Anno Domini One Thousand Seven hundred and Seventy Three I Daniel Hudson of Bridgwater in the County of Plymouth Yeoman being of a Sound & Disposing Mind & Memory Proceed to make this my Last Will and Testament In the first Place I Give & Recommend my Soul Into the hands of God that Gave it, Trusting in his Mercy Through Jesus Christ for Pardon Grace & Glory & my body I Commit To the Earth to be Decently Buried at the Discretion of my Executors hereafter named & with Reguard to my Worldly Interest I Dispose of it in the Following Manner, Viz. ~

Imprimis My Will is that all my Just Debts & Funeral Charges be paid in Convenient Time after my Decease ~

Item I Give & Bequeath unto my Well beloved Wife Mary One Third Part of the Improvement of my Homested Including A Priviledge in my Buildings Also a Cow to be kept for her Also an Horse to be provided for her whenever She Shall have an Occasion for it, Also Fire Wood Delivered at her Door ready cut also the Improvement of all my Indoor Moveables all these for her to Improve During the Time She Shall continue my Widow ~

Item with Regard to my son Daniel I in a Former Will Gave him One hundred Pounds besides what I had Done for him before Since which he has Receiv’d Forty One Pounds five Shillings which I Designed towards his Portion of my Estate & he Gave Receipts for the Same & I do now Give him Fifty Eight Pounds fifteen Shillings the Remainder of the Said Hundred Pounds Also I Give unto him One Third Part of my Quick Stock ~

Item I Give and Bequeath unto my Two Daughters Namely Abigail Howard & Reliance Billings besides what I have heretofore Given them all my Indoor Moveables (not Otherwise Disposed of) After my Wifes Improvement of them to be Equally Divided between them ~

Item I Give unto Nathan Alden son to my Daughter Mary Deceased One Pound Six Shillings & Eight Pence ~

Item – I Give & Bequeath to my son Nathan his Heirs & Assigns forever the Westerly Part of my Homestead Bounded as followeth begining at a Stake & Stones in the North East Corner of the Laurel Swamp about five Rods to the South Ward of Plymouth Road from thence Running North Thirty Degrees East to an Elm Tree Marked & keeping the Same Point to Robbins Pond So Called then by Said Pond westerly ‘till it comes to the Lands that was Samuel James’s then by Those Lands to the High way so Crossing the High-way Then by Reuben Halls Land unto the Said Laurel Swamp then by Said Swamp to the first Bounds excluding the High way I further give him his Heirs & Assigns The Ten Acres of Land I bought of Alice Hearsie Also a Peice of Meadow Land lying by Said Pond & the Herring River that runs into Sd. Pond boundeth as Followeth Begining at a Pitch Pine Tree marked Standing near said Pond from thence runing west five degrees South two Rods to the Pond Then begining again at Sd. Pitch Pine Tree and Runing east five degrees North five Rods to a White Oak Marked on four Sides then North Sixty Eight Degrees East Eighteen Rods to Sapling white Oak marked then North two Degrees west to the Sd. River there being a Stake & Stones in this last line Then by the River & Pond ‘till it comes to the end of the first line run from the Sd. Pitch Pine Also a Peice of Wood Land lying on the easterly Side of Pinguin Bridg So called Bounded as Followeth Beginning at a White Oak Tree marked with B. H in the Line between the Town of Bridgwater & Hallifax from thence in the Sd. Line North Seven Degrees & an half east forty Rods to a Stake & Stones then west five Degrees North twenty Seven Rods to a White Oak Marked then South Ninteen Degrees east ten Rods to an Hornbine Tree marked Then South four Degrees east Thirty Eight Rods to a Pitch Pine marked Then east Eight Degrees North Sixteen Rods to a Stake & Stones in the Said Town Line then in Said Line about four Rods to the first Bounds Also the one half of my Cedar Swamp ~

Item I give and Bequeath unto my Son John his Heirs & Assigns forever the Easterly Part of my Homestead Bounded as Follows Begining at the Stake & Stones first Mentioned in the Sd. Nathans Part of Sd. Homestead & then Runing by Said Nathans Part to the Sd. Pond then Bounded by Sd. Pond Easterly ‘till it comes to a Peice of Meadow given to Sd. Nathan then by the Sd. Meadow ‘till it comes to the River then up the River to the line between ye Sd. Town of Bridgwater & Hallifax Then Southerly in Sd. line to a Stake & Stones then west five Degrees north Sixty Seven Rods to a White Oak marked Then by John Hooper line to the Laurel Swamp aforesd. then by Sd. Swamp to the first bounds mentioned Also one half of my Cedar Swamp ~

Item I give & Bequeath unto my Said Sons Nathan & John my Pew in the Meeting House Also my Stable by the Meeting House Also my Desk Also the other two third of my Quick Stock Also all my other personal Estate excepting my Apparel to be equally devided between them ~

Item I give unto my Said three Sons Daniel Nathan & John my Apparel to be equally devided between them ~

Item I do hereby enjoyn my Said Sons Nathan & John to pay out all the aforesd. Legacies Debts & Funeral Charges equally between them ~

Item I Do hearby Nominate and Appoint my Said Sons Nathan & John Sole Executors of this my last Will & Testament In witness whereof I have hereunto Set my Hand & Seal the Day & Year aforesaid ~

Sign’d Seal’d & delivered

Pronounced Published & declared

by the Sd. Daniel Hudson as his

last Will & Testament before us

Josiah Edson                                                                                                                        Daniel Hudson                                 (seal)

Thomas Washburn

Caleb Cary

 

Presented for probate on 19 Sept. 1775 by the Executors, and proved by Josiah Edson Junr. and Thomas Washburn, two of the witnesses.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Daniel Hudson, late of Bridgwater, was appraised on 28 Sept. 1775 by Ephraim Cary, Nathan Alden, and David Kingman, and totaled £1016.11.11, his buildings and lands given to Nathan Hudson appraised at £450, and his buildings and lands given to John Hudson appraised at £450, and his buildings and lands given to John Hudson appraised at £442.10. Nathan Hudson and John Hudson, the Executors, gave their oath to the inventory on 1 Jan. 1776.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 24, pp. 25-27, 59, from FHL microfilm #0550713.

 

 

Will of John Hudson of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1818) *

  In the name of God amen. I John Hudson of Bridgwater in the County of Plymouth Commonwealth of Massachusetts yeoman calling to mind the Uncertainty of human Life do make & ordain this my last Will & Testament in the following Manner.   viz.

  1st. I give & bequeath to Bethiah my beloved Wife one third of the Improvement of my real Estate during her natural Life also one hundred Dollars & my household Furniture (except my desk and two Cranes) to be disposed of as she thinks proper, also one Cow & the Use of a suitable Horse & Carriage, when she wishes to use them, also my Library. –

  2dly. I give & bequeath to my Sons Otis & Daniel, to each, fifty Dollars. –

  3dly. I give & bequeath to my several Daughters the following Sums, to Mary ten Dollars, to Mehitabel five Dollars, to Abigail one Dollar, to Susanna one hundred & fifty Dollars to Bethiah one hundred & Seventy Dollars also the right to live in my house with the comfortable use of a Fire, with a right to sit in my Pew, and the use of a good Cow well kept so long as she lives unmarried also two sheep well kept during said Term also three Bushels of Indian Corn & two of Rye annually during said Term. –

  4thly. I give & bequeath to my Sons my wearing Apparel to be equally divided between them –

  5thly. I give and bequeath to my Son Melzar the Residue & remainder of my Estate both real & personal to him his Heirs and Assigns forever, he paying my just Debts & funeral Charges  I also appoint him the sole Executor to this my last Will and Testament & hereby revoke all former Wills by me made. In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand & Seal, this twenty first day of May Anno Domini one thousand eight hundred & eighteen

        Signed sealed published and declared

        by the said John Hudson to be his last

        Will and Testament in the presence of

        us who have hereunto subscribed our

        Names as Witnesses in presence of the Testator                                                   John Hudson                                     (seal)

                Nathan Alden

                Isaac Alden 3d.

                Lydia Keith –

 

Presented for probate on 17 Jan. 1820 by Melzar Hudson, the Executor therein named, and proved by Nathan Alden Esqr. and Isaac Alden 3d. two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Melzar Otis [sic], the before named Executor.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

Melzar Hudson, yeoman, of Bridgwater, was granted administration of the estate of John Hudson, late of Bridgwater, on 17 Jan. 1820, with Nathan Alden, Esqr. and Isaac Alden 3d, Gentleman, both of Bridgewater, as sureties.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 50, p. 479-480, from FHL microfilm #0550906, and Probate Docket #11006.

 

 

Will and Codicil of Nathan Hudson of East Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1828) *

  In the name of God, Amen, I Nathan Hudson of East Bridgewater in the County of Plymouth, Yeoman, being advanced in age & considering the uncertainty of life do make & ordain this my last Will & Testament and dispose of my worldly estate as follows, namely.

1.   I give & bequeath to my beloved wife Ann the use & improvement of all my Real & personal estate during her life.

2d.  After the decease of my said Wife, provided my daughter Betsey Briggs, wife of William Briggs shall then be living, it is my Will that she shall have the income, use & profits of all my real & personal estate and for that purpose I do hereby appoint Azor Harris of said East Bridgewater and my grandson Theophilus Parsons Briggs son of said Betsey trustees of all my said Estate, after the decease of my said wife, & during the life of my said daughter, to manage, use and improve the same to the best advantage, & apply, appropriate and pay over the income & profits thereof, for the use and benefit of my said daughter during her life.

3d.  After the decease of my said wife & daughter both, it is my will that all my estate then remaining (except two legacies hereafter named) shall go to my two grand children, Theophilus Parsons Briggs, & James Henry Briggs, children of my said daughter, or their legal representatives, equally to be divided between them; – And I accordingly devise & bequeath the same to them, their heirs & assigns forever, to have & hold the same as aforesaid in fee after the decease of my said wife and daughter. And if either of my aforesaid grand children shall then have deceased leaving children, they, their said children, shall take as representatives the share of such deceased parent – but if such deceased shall leave no children then & in that case the said estate shall go to the survivor. And in case that both my aforesaid grand children shall have deceased, at the time of the decease of my said wife and daughter, then the said estate shall go to my other two grand children, William Briggs & Nathan Hudson Briggs, children of my said daughter, to them, their heirs & assigns forever.

4th.  I give & bequeath to my grandson William Briggs aforesaid, son of my said daughter, twenty five dollars to be paid to him in one year after the decease of my said wife and daughter.

5th. – I give and bequeath to my aforenamed grand child Nathan Hudson Briggs, fifty dollars, also my watch, to be paid & delivered to him in one year after the decease of my said wife & daughter.

6th   I do hereby appoint the said Azor Harris & the said Theophilus Parsons Briggs to be Executors of this my last will and Testament, as well as Trustees as aforesaid. And I do hereby empower them & enjoin upon them to pay all my just debts & funeral charges, and for that purpose I do hereby authorise them to sell & dispose of, either by sale at auction or private contract, such personal or real estate, as they, consulting my said wife & daughter, if either be living, may deem most beneficial to the interest & estate I may have. And in case that my son in law William Briggs should die leaving my said wife & my said daughter both, alive, or either of them, as the case may be, then & in such case, the said Azor Harri’s authority, as trustee as aforesaid shall cease and be void, & they, my said wife & daughter, or either of them, if one only is living, shall have all the authority I have hereby given to said Harris, as trustee as aforesaid. And I hereby in such case authorise my said wife & daughter, or either of them, as the case may, to do all I have authorised the said Harris to do, as trustee as aforesaid in manner aforesaid jointly with said Theophilus & to sell in manner aforesaid any such estate as may be necessary to make them, or either of them, as the case may be, comfortable, & apply the proceeds to their use & benefit & to the use & benefit of my said grand children provided the personal estate and income of the real estate shall be insufficient for that purpose.

                It is also my will and direction that the said Harri’s authority, as Executor, as aforesaid, shall continue no longer than during the minority of the said Theophilus & that after said Theophilus comes of age, he shall be the sole Executor of this my last will and Testament.

                In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this fourth day of September in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred & twenty eight.

                                                                                                                                                Nathan Hudson                                (seal)

                Signed, sealed, published, pronounced and declared by the above named Nathan Hudson to be his last Will & Testament in the presence of us, who have hereunto at his request subscribed our names as witnesses in his presence & in the presence of each other.

                Barthw Brown

                Charles Rogers

                Betsey Brown.

 

                I, Nathan Hudson of East Bridgewater in the County of Plymouth Yeoman, do this first day of June in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred & twenty nine make and publish this Codicil to my last Will & Testament in manner following, viz, instead of twenty five dollars given and bequeathed to my grandson William Briggs, therein named in the fourth bequest in my said last will & Testament, I give & bequeath him, the said William grandson aforesaid one dollar only – And instead of fifty dollars therein given & bequeathed to my grandson Nathan Hudson Briggs as mentioned & bequeathed in the fifth bequest of said last Will and testament, I give & bequeath said Nathan Hudson Briggs twenty five dollars only — And it is my will & desire that these alterations shall be so made in the fourth & fifth bequest as mentioned in my said last Will & Testament. And I desire that this Codicil be annexed to & made part of my last will & Testament

                In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand & seal this first day of June in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred & twenty nine

                                                                                                                                                Nathan Hudson                                (seal)

                Signed, sealed, published & declared by the above named Nathan Hudson to be his Codicil to his last will & Testament in the presence of us, who at his request, & in his presence have hereunto set our names as witnesses to the same.

                Barthw Brown

                Charles Rogers

                Betsey Brown

 

Presented for probate on 6 Oct. 1835, and proved by Bartholomew Brown, Charles Rogers and Betsey Brown, the subscribing witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Theophilus P. Briggs of Boston in the County of Suffolk, the Executor, on 6 Oct. 1835.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 77, p. 457-461, from FHL microfilm #0555264.

 

 

Will of William Hudson of Bridgewater, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1728) *

In the Name of God amen ye 26th day of September in the Year of our Lord – 1728 I William Hudson of Bridgewater in ye County of Plymouth in New England Mason being very sick & weak of body tho of perfect Mind & Memory Thanks be given to God there for Calling to Mind ye Mortality of my Body & knowing that it is appointed for all men once to dy do Make & Ordain this my last Will & Testament in Manner & form following—

Viz: First of all I Give my Soul into ye hands of God that gave it me hoping through ye merits & Passion of my Saviour Jesus Christ to inherit Eternal Life and as to my Body I Commit it to the Earth to be decently buried at ye Discretion of my Execrs hereafter named And as touching Such worldly Estate as it hath pleased God to bless me with in this Life I Give Demise & Dispose of ye Same in manner & form following—

1. My Will is that all my Debts be truly & lawfully paid by my Executors that I do owe to any & every Person whatsoever—

2. I Give unto my beloved Wife Experience Hudson whom I appoint together with Joseph Byram of ye Same Town my sole Executrix & Executr of this my last Will & Testament all the whole of my worldly Estate both real & personal & to her Heirs & assignes to be Injoyed by them forever—And I do hereby Revoke & Disanull all other & former Wills & Testaments Bequeathed made by me in time past & do hereby declare this & none Other to be my last Will & Testament and Witness whereof I the sd William Hudson have hereunto Set my hand and Seal the day & Year first above written – Three Words blotted out in the Will before Signing—

                                                                                                                                                William Hudson                                (seal)

Signed Sealed Published & Pronounced & Declared by the sd William

Hudson as his last Will & Testament In Presence of us—Ephm Lenard

                her                                          her

Susanna  X  Perkins             Martha   X  Perkins

                mark                                      mark

 

Probated on 2 Dec. 1728, and proved by Ephraim Lenard & Susanna Perkins. Letters of administration on the estate of William Hudson, late of Bridgewater, granted to Experience Hudson, relict widow of the deceased, and Joseph Byram, of the same town, on 2 Dec. 1728.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of William Hudson, late of Bridgewater, was appraised by Josiah Edson, Thomas Perkins, and Jonathan Cary on 11 Oct. 1728, and totaled £215.04.6, including his lands valued at £105, and his house & barn valued at £45. Debts due from the Estate of William Hudson, late of Bridgewater, totaled £40.12.3. Joseph Byram, one of the Executors named in the Last Will & Testament of William Hudson, late of Bridgewater, gave his oath to the inventory on 13 May 1729.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 5, pp. 794-797, 798, from FHL microfilm #0550511.

 

 

Will of William Hudson of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1794) *

In the name of God Amen. I William Hudson of Bridgwater in the County of Plymouth, Brick layer, being of a sound and disposing mind, do make this my last will & testament, and in the first place, I recommend my soul to God who gave it, and my body to the earth From whence it was taken, to be buried, with decent Christian burial, at the discretion of my Executor hereafter named, and with regard to my worldly goods & estate, I dispose of the same in manner following — viz~

        Imprimis—I Give and bequeath unto my two Sons Barzillai Hudson & Asa Hudson my wood land, lying on the south side of the high way, leading from my dwelling house to Daniel Willis’s in the west Parish in said Bridgwater, to pay the Notes of hand they hold against me, & also, to pay a legacy of Ten pounds to said Barzillai & Five pounds to said Asa, and if said land shall not be appraised for enough to pay said notes & said legacies, then so much land to be Set off by appraisement at the northerly end of my Homestead to said Barzillai & Asa, as shall make up the deficiency; and if the said Barzillai and Asa shall refuse to comply with the terms aforesaid, I order my Executor to sell said land & to pay said notes & legacies

        Item—I Give and bequeath unto my three sons William Hudson Edward Hudson & Eli Hudson three Feather beds with common furniture for lodging, to be equally divided between them

        Item—I Give & bequeath unto my Son William aforesaid a Note of hand for Forty two pounds nineteen shillings which I have against him

        Item—I Give & bequeath unto my two Sons William & Eli aforesaid my wearing apparell, to be equally divided between them

        Item—I Give & bequeath to my two Daughters, Silence Soule wife of Ebenezer Soule and Mary Soule wife of Asaph Soule, in addition to Forty two pounds, which each have already recieved, all my hollow Iron ware, except a large kettle set in brick, also all my Pewter, and also two looking glasses, the whole to be equally divided between them

        Item. I order my Executor to dispose of my quick stock, Cedar Swamp & houshold Goods, not already disposed of, and to pay my just debts, funeral charges & Settlement of my estate

        Item—I Give & bequeath to my Son Eli aforesaid, all the remainder of my estate, both real & personal, not already disposed of ~

        Item= I do constitute and appoint my said Son Eli Hudson Sole Executor of this my last will & testament, and I do hereby ratify and confirm this to be my last will & testament, disallowing all other wills by me heretofore made. In Witness whereof, I have hereunto Set my hand & Seal, the sixth day of May in the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred & ninety four

Signed Sealed Published & declared by

the said William Hudson to be his last                                                                                            William Hudson (seal)

will & testament in presence of us

                Nathan Hayward –  [deceased]

                Beza Hayward

                Abigail Hayward

 

        September the twenty ninth in the year of our Lord one thousand Seven hundred & ninety six the above named William Hudson Sealed published & declared the above & within instrument to be his last deed & testament in presence of us

                Joseph Alden

                Daniel Alden

 

Presented for probate on 2 Jan. 1797 by Eli Hudson, the Executor therein named, and proved by Beza Hayward Esqr. & Daniel Alden, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed.

 

The Inventory of the real & personal estate of William Hudson, late of Bridgwater, Bricklayer, was appraised by Oliver Alden, William Mitchell, and Enoch Perkins on 14 Mar. 1797, and totaled $728.34, including his real estate valued at $596.14. Eli Hudson, the Executor of the estate, gave his oath to the inventory on 24 Oct. 1797.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 36, pp. 23-25, 246, from FHL microfilm #0550719.

 

 

Will of Joshua Hunt of Westchester, Westchester County, Province of New York (1760) *

In the Name of God Amen I Joshua Hunt Senior of the Borough Town of Westchester in the County of Westchester and Province of New York being indisposed in Body but of sound and Disposing mind and memory thanks be to God to make my last Will and Testament in Manner following first and Principally I commit my Soul into the hands of God that gave it and my body to the Earth to be decently buried by my Executors herein named hoping for Pardon of all my Sins through the merits of my blessed Saviour and Redeemer Jesus Christ, and as touching my Worldly Estate I give and Dispose of it as followeth, First I Will that all my Just Debts and funeral Charges be duely paid and satisfied within some convenient time after my Decease, Secondly I give to my Grand Son Joshua Hunt Son of John Hunt and to his heirs the sum of ten Shillings, Thirdly I give to my Son Caled Hunt and to his heirs the sum of five Pounds Currency, Forthly I give to my Son Joshua Hunt and to his heirs the sum of five Pounds Currency, Fifthly I give to my Son Israel Hunt and to his heirs the sum of three Pounds Currency, Sixthly I give to my Daughter Merriam Oakly the sum of five Pounds Currency, Seventhly I give to my Daughter Mary Hunt and to her heirs the sum of twenty Pounds Currency Eighthly I give to my Wife Marcy Hunt the sum of one hundred Pounds Currency also one Feather Bed & furniture thereunto belonging which Legacy shall be a full and perpetual bar to her of her Dower in my Estate, Ninthly I give to my Son Enoc Hunt and to his heir and assigns for ever all my Estate both Real and Personall whatsoever and wheresoever provided he doth pay and satisfie all my Just debts and the above Legacys within some convenient time after my Decease,  Lastly I nominate and appoint my Son Enoc Hunt and Benjamin Palmer Executors of this my last Will and Testament hereby making Void all former Wills by me made Declaring this Only to be my last Will and Testament,  In Testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and Seal this twenty forth day of July in the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and Sixty.

                                                                                                                                                Joshua Hunt                                      (seal)

Sign’d Seal’d Published and Declared by the aid Joshua Hunt as and for his last Will and Testament in the presence of us who subscribed our names as Witnesses thereof in his presence,

Philip Palmer

William Doty

Miles Oakby

 

Probated on 25 March 1762, and proved by William Doty, Blacksmith, and Miles Oakby, Weaver, both of the Borough Town of West Chester. Letters of Administration granted to Enoch Hunt and Bejamin Palmer, the Executors, on 15 Apr. 1762.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from New York County Probate Vol. 23, p. 310-311, copied from original Liber 23, p. 299-300.

 

 

Will of Lot Hunt of Duxbury, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1815) *

        In the name of God Amen I Lot Hunt of Duxbury in the County of Plymouth & Commonwealth of Massachusetts, considering the uncertainty of this mortal life, & being of sound, perfect mind & memory, blessed be Almighty God for the same do make & publish this my last will & Testament, in manner & form following (that is to say),

   First I give and bequeath unto my beloved wife Abigail Hunt the use and improvement of one third part of all my real Estate together with the whole of the household furniture that she had and brought with her when I married her. Secondly I will that after all just debts & charges shall have been paid that my Estate be divided into five shares.

        I give and bequeath unto my only son Samuel Hunt two full shares.

        I also do give and bequeath unto my Daughter Sarah Brewster one full share.

        I also do give unto my Daughter Jane Prior one full share.

        I also do give and bequeath unto my three Grandchildren (by my son Ziba Hunt deceased) viz Ziba Hunt, Henry Hunt and Mary Hunt one full share, to be equally divided between them when they shall be of lawful age. I also will that my son Samuel Hunt shall have the use & improvement of the above named Grandchildren’s shares until they shall respectively come of lawful age, and that he shall at his own expense, take proper care of and educate my above named Grandchild Ziba Hunt until he is twenty years of age, I also will that my son Samuel Hunt shall have all my wearing apparel, any thing herein contained to the contrary notwithstanding. And furthermore it is my express will that the use & improvement of the one third part of my real Estate given to my wife as abovesaid shall remain unto her so long as she shall remain my widow & no longer.

        And I do hereby nominate & appoint my son Samuel Hunt sole Executor of this my last will and Testament, hereby revoking all former wills by me made.

        In witness whereof I hereunto set my hand and seal the twenty sixth day of May in the year of our Lord 1815.

Signed, Sealed, published & declared by the

above named Lot Hunt to be his last

will & Testament, in presence of us

who at his request & in his presence                                                                               Lot Hunt                                              (seal)

have hereunto subscribed our names

as witnesses to the same

        Jonathan Harlow

        Melzar Brewster

        Studley Samson

 

Presented for probate on 21 Oct. 1822 by Samuel Hunt, the Executor therein named, and proved by Melzar Brewster and Studley Sampson, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Samuel Hunt, the before named Executor.

 

Studley Sampson, Gent, Avery Richards, Chaisemaker, and Seth Sprague Jr, Trader, all of Duxbury, were appointed to appraise the Estate of Lot Hunt, late of Duxbury, yeoman, on 1 Oct. 1822. The Inventory of the Estate of Lot Hunt, late of Duxbury was not dated, but his real estate was valued at $1270.00, and his personal estate totaled $543.63. Samuel Hunt, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 18 Nov. 1822.

 

Plymouth Ss November 21st. 1822 To Samuel Hunt, Executor of the last Will & Testament of Lot Hunt late of Duxbury in said County yeoman deceased  —                                           Greeting

You are hereby directed to sell personal Estate of said deceased at public Auction or private sale as will most benefit all persons interested after the same shall have been appraised, excepting such parts thereof as are specially devised in his last Will & Testament & account with me for the proceeds of the same –

                                                                                                                                                Wilkes Wood J Prob ~

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 56, pp. 158-160, 328-329, 185, from FHL microfilm #0550909.

 

 

Will of Henrietta Huntley of Andes, Delaware County, New York (1877) *

I Henrietta Huntley of the town of Andes County of Delaware & State of New York being of sound mind & memory do make ordain publish & declare this to be my last Will and Testament that is to say. First – After all my lawful debts are paid & discharged I give devise & bequeath unto my son Anthony H. Huntley his heirs & assigns all that tract or parcel of land situated in the town of Andes County of Delaware & State of New York Bounds described as follows on the H W by the Delaware River on the South West by lands owned by Samuel Davis on the South by lands of lot No 7, on the East by lands occupied by M. R Squires on Lot No 12, generally known as Lot No 2 in Great Lot No 6, Hardenburgh Patent, to have & to hold the premises above described to the said Anthony H Huntley his heirs & assigns forever.  Second – I give and devise to my son James A Huntley the following personal property to wit, one feather bed straw tuck together with quilt comforter sheets pillows & other necessary appurtenances to it also one square stand. Third I give & devise to my son Anthony H Huntley the following personal property to wit, one Bed & Beading also one wash stand. Fourth, to my daughter Susan Jane Conklin one Bed & the necessary bedding all of my carpets & the remainder of the Bedding that I may have left at my decease, and lastly to my son Anthony H Huntley all the hereditaments & appurtenances belonging to or in any wise appertaining to the real estate above mentioned together with all the rest residue & remainder of my personal estate goods and chattels of what nature or kind soever. Likewise I make constitute and appoint my son Anthony H Huntley & Isaac E. Haumer of the town of Andes Delaware County & State of New York to be executors of this my last Will and Testament hereby revoking all former Wills by me made.

In Witness Where of I have hereunto subscribed my name & affixed my seal the fourteenth day of May in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred & seventy seven

                                                                                                                                                                her

                                                                                                                                                Henrietta  x  Huntley                          (seal)

                                                                                                                                                                mark

The above instrument consisting of one sheet was at the date thereof subscribed by Henrietta Huntley in the presence of us & each of us, she at the time of making such subscription acknowledged that she made the same & declared the said instrument so subscribed by her to be her last Will and Testament. Whereupon we then & there at her request & in her presence & the presence of each other subscribed our names as witnesses thereto.

Isaac E. Haumer                  residing at Union Grove N.Y

Samuel Davis                       residing at Union Grove N.Y

 

I Isaac E. Haumer of the town of Andes Del Co N.Y one of the Executors named and appointed in & by the Last Will and Testament of Henrietta Huntley late of the town of Andes in the County of Delaware deceased do hereby renounce the said appointment & all right & claim to letters testamentary on the said last Will and Testament or to act as Executor thereof

Dated May 28, 1888                                                                                                           Isaac E. Haumar                  (seal)

State of New York               }

County of Delaware            }

                                On this 28th day of May in the year one thousand eight hundred & eighty eight before me the subscribed personally came Isaac E Haumer to me known to be the same person described in & who executed the foregoing renunciation & acknowledged that he executed the same

                                                                                                                                                Daniel T. Arbuckle              Surrogate

 

Anthony H. Huntley was granted Letters Testamentary on the estate of Henrietta Huntley, late of Andes, on 28 May 1888.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Delaware County Probate Wills Vol. M, p. 215, from FHL microfilm #0833513, and Letters Testamentary Vol. I, p. 287.

 

 

Will of Moses Inglee of Halifax, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1801) *

        In the Name of God amen I Moses Inglee of the Town of Halifax in the County of Plymouth and Commonwealth of Massachusetts Yeoman being weak in Body but of sound & perfect Mind & Memory, blessed by almighty God for the same, do make & publish this my last will & Testament in Manner following that is to say —

        First my will is that my Just debts & Funeral charges be paid out of my personal Estate if sufficient if not to be paid as hereafter expressed —

        2dly. I give and bequeath unto my beloved Wife Anna Inglee one third of all my personal Estate & the Improvement of one third of my Real Estate so long as she remains my Widow in the Manner following by cutting Timber for Repairing Buildings & Fences and Fire Wood sufficient for one Fire. —

        3dly. I give & bequeath unto my eldest Son Solomon Inglee Ten Dollars. I give & bequeath unto my four Sons Ebenezer Inglee, Moses Inglee Lemuel Ingles & Jesse Inglee the Sum of two Dollars a piece, also relinquishing all debts due from any or either of my Sons by Note Bond or Book account. —

        4th. I give and bequeath unto my Youngest Son Robert Inglee all my Real Estate by his paying all Legaises mentioned in this my last will & Testament & all my just debts if there is not sufficient personal Estate to pay the same also reserving a privilege in the House for my daughter Olive Inglee to live in so long as she shall live a single Life —

        5th. I give & bequeath unto my Grandson Bela Bosworth fifteen Dollars to be paid to him when he shall arrive to the Age of twenty one Years, but if he shall die before that time then the fifteen Dollars shall be paid to my two Daughters equally divided between them unless either of them die without Issue then the above Sum to be paid to the surviving one –

        6th. I give and bequeath unto my daughter Sarah Waterman Fifteen Dollars in Addition to what she received at the time of her Marriage —

        7th I give & bequeath unto my Daughter Olive Inglee Sixty seven Dollars, I also give & bequeath unto my Daughter Olive a privilege of living in my house so long as she shall live a single Life –

        8th. It is my Will that all the above Legacies be paid out of my personal Estate if there is sufficient, if not, to be paid by my Son Robert as above mentioned within six Months after my decease except my Grandson Bela’s — And I do hereby appoint Adam Tomson sole Executor of this my last Will & Testament, hereby revoking all former Wills by me made –

In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand & Seal this twenty fifth day of December in the Year of our Lord one Thousand eight hundred & One —

Signed sealed published & declared by the above

named Moses Inglee to be his last Will & Testament

in the presence of us, who have hereunto subscribed our

names as Witnesses in presence of the Testator –

                Josiah Tomson                                                                                                     Moses Inglee                                     (seal)

                Freeman Waterman

                Joanna Waterman

 

Presented for probate on 1 June 1809 by Adam Tomson, the Executor therein named, and proved by Josiah Tomson, Freeman Waterman and Joanna Waterman, all the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Adam Tomson, the before named Executor.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Moses Inglee, late of Halifax, dated 21 Apr. 1809, was appraised by Timothy Wood, Jacob Soule, and Richard Bosworth, and totaled $3136.08, including his real estate valued at $2367. Adam Tomson, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 1 May 1809.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 42, p. 464-465, from FHL microfilm #0550902.

 

 

Will of Abraham Jackson of Plymouth, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1708) *

In the Name of God Amen. I Abraham Jackson of Plimouth In the County of Plimouth in New-England being weak & Infirm of Body but (through the goodness of God) of Sound & Disposeing minde & memory do make & ordaine this my Last Will and Testament as followeth. Impr. I Comitt my soul to God that Gave it relying upon his free Grace in the Lord Jesus Christ for Eternal Salvation and my Body to the dust to be decently Buried according to the discretion of my Executr. hereafter named and Appointed hopeing for a Glorious Resurrection to Life & Imortality through Jesus Christ the first fruits from the Dead and as to what Temporal Estate it hath pleased God to Bless me with (my Just Debts & funerall Charges being first duly paid & Discharged) I Dispose of the Same as followeth. That is to Say.

I Give to my eldest son Abraham Jackson all my Wearing apparrell whatsoever both Wollen & Linen. Item I Give and Bequeath all the Rest of my Whole Estate Both reall & personal whatsoever and wheresoever to my five Childrean viz Abraham Jackson Nathaniel Jackson Eliezer Jackson John Jackson & Lidia Hall to be Equally Divided amongst them and to be Enjoyed by them & theirs heirs for ever. Item I Constitute and appoint my Son Eliezer Jackson Sole Executor of this my Last Will & Testament and do hereby Revoke disanull and make void all former Wills & Testaments & Ratafy & Confirm this & no other to be my Last Will and Testament. And in Testimony hereof have hereunto Sett my hand & Seal this Sixteenth Day of January Anno Domini One Thousand Seven hundread and Seven 1707/8

Signed Sealed & Declared To be his

Last Will & Testament –                                                                                                   Abraham     O       Jackson

In presence of us                                                                                                                                  his marke

Nathaniel Thomas Junr

Ephraim Little Junr

Mary Thomas

 

Probated on 22 Dec. 1714, and proved by Nathaniel Thomas Junr Esqr, Mr. Ephraim Little, & Mrs. Mary Thomas, the witnesses.

 

The inventory of the Estate of Abraham Jackson Senr, of Plimouth, was appraised by Charles Church, Haviland Torrey, and Francis Adams, on 8 Oct. 1714, but was not totaled.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 3, p. 323-324, from FHL microfilm #0550509.

 

 

Will of Abraham Jackson of Plymouth, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1760) *

In the Name of God Amen Abraham Jackson of the Town of Plymouth and the County aforesaid In New England yeoman Labouring under Many Infirmatyes of Boddy which as simtoms of aproaching mortallity but of Perfect & Disposeing memory Thanks be given To almighty God for the Same but Calling to minde the mortallity of my boddy Knowing that it is appointed for all men once To Die Do make & ordain this my Last Will & Testament.

first I Will & bequeth my Sole To God that Gave it me & my body to the Dust To be Decently buried at the Decrisation of my Executor hereafter named Nothing Doubting but at the General Resurrection I Shall Receve the Same again by the mighety Power of God

Item I will & Bequeth unto my Loving wife Bethiah Jackson one Third Part of My Moveable Estate after my Just Debts & funeral Charges are Paid out of them and also one Third Part of the Improvement of my Real Estate So Long as she shall Remain my widdow all This I give To my Loving wife so Long as she shall Remain my widdow

Item I Give & Bequeth unto my Loving Son Isaac Jackson all my home stead where I now Dwell with all the Buldings thereon and also all my Lands & meddow adjoning to said homstead all Lying in the Town Ship of Plymouth I also give To my son all my Lands & Meddow & Sedar Swamp which I have Lying in the Township of Plimtown I also Give To my sd. son one Third part of my moveable Estate My Just Debts and funeral Charges & my Loving wifes Tirds being Paid out all the above Said home stead & buldings & Lands Medow & Cedar Swamp & movable Estate I Give To my Loving son Isaac Jackson & unto his heirs and assignes forever all ways Provided that he his heirs Executors or administrators Shall Pay Such Legasies and fulfil What I shall Appoint him hereafter in this Presen will

Item I Give & Bequeth unto my Loving Daughter Mary Jackson the One Third part of my Movable Estate my Just debts & funeral Charges & my wifes Thirds being first paid out of them All This I give To my sd. Daughter To her heirs and assignes for Ever

Item I will & Bequeth unto my Loving Daughter Margret Jackson the one Third Part of my movable Estate my Just Debts being & funeral Charges & my wifes Thirds Being first Paid out of them I also give To my sd Daughter Twenty Pounds Lawfull Monny Including ye. movebals which I have given her in This will & if the Movables which I have in this will Given To my Said Daughter Do not Amount To Twenty Pounds Lawfull monny I Do order and apoint that My Loving Son Isaac shall make it up Twenty Pounds Lawfull monny whe he Shall arrive at the age of Twenty one years or his his heirs Executors or Administrators all This I Give To my sd Daughter and To her heirs and assignes for Ever

I also order & appoint My Loving Son Isaac Jackson To mantain my Loving Daughter Mary Jackson Dureing her natural Life he or his heirs or adminitrators

Lastly I Nomanate & Appoint My Loving Nibour James Robens to be the Sole Executor of this my Last will & Testament hereby Revoceing all other and former wills Either written or Verbal by me hereto fore made or Done hereby Ratifieing & Confirming this my Last will To Remain firm & in Testimony where of I the above said Abraham Jackson have hereunto Set my hand & Seal this Twenty fifth Day of october in the year of our Lord 1760

Signed. Sealed and Declared by the                                                                                                    his

Said Abraham Jackson To be his                                                                                      Abraham  XI  Jackson                        (seal)

Last will & Testament in Presenc                                                                                                       mark

of us

Samll Lucas

Joseph Lucas

Edward Doten

 

Presented for probate on 6 Apr. 1761 by the Executor therein named, and proved by Saml. Lucas and Edward Doten, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to James Robens of Plimtown, Inholder, the Executor in the same will named, on 6 Apr. 1761.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Abra. Jackson, late of Plimouth, was appraised on 20 Jan. 1761 by Samuel Barrows, Samuel Lucas, and Eleazer Crouther, and totaled £271.10.0, including his real estate valued at £200. James Robins, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 20 Apr. 1762.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 16, pp. 88-90, 297, from FHL microfilm #0551543.

 

 

Will and Codicil of Daniel Jackson of Plymouth, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1828) *

Be it remembered that I Daniel Jackson of Plymouth in the County of Plymouth & Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Merchant being of sound and perfect mind and memory, do make constitute and publish this my last Will & Testament in the following manner and form, to wit,  I give and bequeath unto my beloved wife Rebecca Jackson in lieu of her dower in my Estate, the use and improvement of my Mansion House & Appurtenances in Plymouth, and also the Furniture therein, during her natural life.

        I further give unto my said Wife as aforesaid the rents and profits that may be derived from my Estate in Court Street and in Somerset Court in the City of Boston, and the profits of my Stocks in Plymouth Bank, and in New England Bank, Suffolk Bank & Boston Marine Insurance Company in the City of Boston so far as the said rents and profits may be necessary for her maintenance in the manner most agreeable to her wishes, and in case any circumstance should render the said rents and profits insufficient for the maintenance of my said Wife such deficiency is to be made up by the sale of any of my Bank or Insurance Stocks in Plymouth or Boston, or either of my said Estate in Boston or all of them, by the Executors herein after appointed, as my said Wife shall direct to defray the expenses of her maintenance in the manner suited to her wishes.

                I do will and direct that the debts and expenses to which my Estate shall be justly chargeable shall be paid out of that part of my Personal Estate which is not above specially reserved for the maintenance of my wife.

                With a view to as equal a Distribution of my Estate among my children as is practicable and under a consideration of all the circumstances I give and bequeath to my son Daniel Jackson Junr. the amount of a Note of hand which I hold against him for Eleven hundred & seventy five dollars, dated September 5. 1820.

                I also give and bequeath to my son Abraham Jackson a piece of land containing about 1¾ Acres situated between the Rope walk lot lot owned by Thomas & William Jackson and the harbour of Plymouth and is known by the name of Whites field.

                I also give and bequeath to my son Thomas T. Jackson the amount of a Note of hand that I hold against him for eighteen hundred & ninety nine & 71/100 dollars, dated January 27. 1822~

                I also give and bequeath to my son Isaac C Jackson the amount of a Note of hand that I hold against him for eighteen hundred & ninety nine & 71/100 dollars, dated Jany. 27. 1822.

                I also give and bequeath to my son William M Jackson the amount of a certain Note of hand that I hold against him for Eight hundred dollars, dated June 30. 1823.

                I also give and bequeath to my daughter Rebecca Robbins the wife of Josiah Robbins the amount of my account of Cash advanced her to purchase her furniture.

                The above above gifts to my sons Daniel, Abraham, Thomas Isaac, & William are on the express provision and condition that each of them respectively relinquish all claim for any debt against my Estate except as Executors for settling said Estate and to each of my said sons I relinquish the amount of my Account against them and should any claim for debts be presented against my Estate for allowance by either of my said Sons, then such of my said Sons shall be required to pay so much of his or their notes above described as will cancel his or their respective demands against my Estate.

                The remainder of my Real & Personal Estate and also the surpluss of Rents and Profits of Stocks, & Stock & Estates that are herein particularly reserved for the improvement and maintenances of my wife during her life, and which she may not have expended at her death I give and bequeath six seventh parts thereof to be equally divided between my aforesaid sons Daniel, Abraham, Thomas, Isaac & William & my daughter Rebecca Robbins or their respective heirs, and the remaining seventh part thereof, I hereby will and direct to be placed in the care of trustees whom I shall for that purpose herein after appoint, and who are hereby directed to expend or pay over to my son Jacob Jackson, as they the said Trustees may think best, for the support and maintenance of my said son Jacob & his family during my said son’s life, and to him or them only the profits & income that shall annually be derived from the said seventh parts of my said Estates & property, And the said Trustees may also pay over and deliver up to my said son Jacob the principal of said share or seventh part of my said Real & Personal Estate if in their opinion such surrender to him will be useful to my said son, but should the said seventh part of said property or any part thereof remain in the care of Trustees at the decease of my said son Jacob then the profits and income thereof (and if said Trustees think it best the principal also) is by said trustees to be applied to the maintenance and education of my said son Jacob’s Child or Children, until the youngest of said Children shall have attained the age of twenty one years,  but should my said son Jacob decease whilst the said seventh part of my property remains in the care of Trustees or any part thereof and he leave no child, or having left a child or children, and such or such child or children having died before arriving to twenty one years of age, then the said Trustees are to pay over the annual profits and income thereof to the Widow of my said son Jacob if she be then his Widow and as long as she shall remain his Widow. But should my should my said son Jacob’s child or children have arrived at Twenty one years of age after the decease of their Father and their Mother having also died or married again, then the said Trustees are to surrender unto said child or children what may yet remain in their trust of said seventh part of said property, to be equally divided among them.

                But should my said son Jacob have died, and his children also without having become possessed of the said seventh part of said property, by reason of the foregoing provisions of said trust, and the wife or widow of my said son having also died or married again, then the said property in trust is to be equally divided among my other six children or their heirs.

        And I do constitute and appoint my two sons Daniel Jackson Junr. & Abraham Jackson Trustees to receive the care of the above said seventh part of my Estate and dispose of the same conformable to the provisions herein, with full power to sell & convey a part or the whole of the said share of my said Real & Personal Estate in their trust if the general benefit should appear to require such sale, and the proceeds thereof if not expended for nor given up to my son Jacob or his child or children said Trustees are to invest in some safe stock, for promoting the object of the foregoing provisions respecting said property –

        Should the place of either of the above named trustees be vacated such vacancy is to be filled by my son Isaac C Jackson and a successive vacancy by my son William M Jackson whom for that purpose I appoint with like powers & duties as the Trustees first named.

                I do constitute and appoint my two sons Abraham Jackson & Isaac C. Jackson to be joint Executors of this my last Will & Testament, with power to cause my Estate to be divided into shares conformable to the within provisions and fairly drawn for by lots, which shall be done in presence of at best two disinterested persons, and the shares or lots so drawn is to have the effect of a Division of my Estate, and assigned to each of my Children conformably thereto

                In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this twenty fifth day of March in the year of our Lord eighteen hundred & twenty eight

                                                                                                                                                Daniel Jackson                                    (seal)

  Signed sealed published & declared by the within named Daniel Jackson to be his last Will & Testament in presence of us who at his request and in his presence have hereunto subscribed our names as witnesses to the same

        Thomas Jackson Senr.

        Wm. Jackson

        Jas. Bartlett Junr.

 

        I Daniel Jackson of Plymouth in the County of Plymouth & Commonwealth of Massachusetts, retaining my intellectual faculties unimpaired, do make & publish this Codicil to my last Will & Testament (dated March 25. 1828) in the following manner.

        Whereas I have in and by my aforesaid last Will & Testament specially provided & reserved all my Insurance & Bank Stocks in Plymouth & in Boston for the maintenance of my Wife, I do now further provide and direct, that in case a sale of any of my said Stocks shall by the abovementioned provision become necessary, those of my Stocks that are in Boston shall first be disposed of for that purpose, and the Stock which I now own in Plymouth Bank, if the same shall not have been expended in the lifetime of my wife for her maintenance, or so much thereof as may remain at her decease, I give and bequeath to my sons Abraham Jackson & William M Jackson and to my daughter Rebecca Robbins and their heirs, to each one third part thereof  And it is my desire that this my present codicil be annexed to and made a part of my last Will & Testament to all intents and purposes.  In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand & seal this first day of July in the year of our Lord eighteen hundred & twenty eight

                                                                                                                                                Daniel Jackson                                    (seal)

        Signed sealed published & declared by the above named

        Daniel Jackson as a Codicil to be annexed to his last Will & Testament

        in presence of us who at his request & in his presence have hereun-

        to subscribed our names as witnesses to the same –

                Thomas Jackson Junr

                Rosseter Cotton

                James Bartlett Junr.

 

Presented for probate on 16 Nov. 1829, and proved by Thomas Jackson Junr. & William Jackson, two of the witnesses to said Will, and Thomas Jackson Junr. & Rosseter Cotton, two of the witnesses to said Codicil. Letters of Administration were granted to Abraham Jackson and Isaac C Jackson of Plymouth, Merchants, the Executors, on 16 Nov. 1829.

 

William Jackson, Esqr., Henry Jackson, and James Bartlett Jur, all of Plymouth, were appointed to appraise the Estate of Daniel Jackson, late of Plymouth, Gentleman, on 16 Nov. 1829. The Inventory of the Estate both Real & Personal of Daniel Jackson, late of Plymouth, dated 2 Dec. 1829, totaled $23,041.45, including his real estate valued at $22,772,25. Abraham Jackson and Isaac C Jackson, the Executors, gave their oath to the inventory on 12 Apr. 1830.

 

The Division of the Real Estate of Daniel Jackson, listed his heirs as Jacob Jackson, William M Jackson, Thomas T Jackson, Isaac C Jackson, Rebecca Robbins, Abraham Jackson, and Daniel Jackson, dated 11 Dec. 1829, and approved on 12 Apr. 1830.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 67, p. 387-392, from FHL microfilm #0555259, and Vol. 69, p. 139-143.

 

 

Will of Eleazer Jackson of Plympton, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1736) *

Being Persuaded that it is appointed for all men once to die & not knowing how Soon it may please God to take me out of the World being yet of a Sound Mind & having the free use of my rational Powers though I am weak of Body I Make this my last Will & Testament and first of all I Bequeath my Soul & Commit it into the Hands of God who gave it & my Body to the Earth to be decently buried, and as for what worldly Goods & Estate God hath Endowed me with I dispose of it in the manner following—

First of all I Give to my dear Wife Hannah Jackson all my whole Estate both real & personal the Improvement of it as long as She shall Continue my Widow and the personal Estate which I shall have, She may have by this my last Will free Liberty & full Power to Sell in Case of Sickness or Want by Poverty and to Dispose of it for her Comfort - Relief and Enjoy my House & Lands & all ye Profits of them during the term of her Widowhood as abovesd—

Itm after ye Decease of my Wife or at her marriage I Give to my three Sons Ransom Jackson, Benjamin Jackson, & Ephraim Jackson the Whole of my real Estate both Houses & Lands both Upland Meadows Swamps & Cedar Swamps being & lying in Plimton or Plymouth to be equally divided between Each of them. And also the Beds which shall remain at the Decease or ye marriage of my sd Wife to be equally divided between my Sons only my Eldest Son Ransom Jackson to have his first Choice of ye Beds.

Itm further what other Personal Estate shall remain after ye Decease or at ye Marriage of my Wife I Give to my Daughters to be equally Divided amongst them (namely) to Joanna Harlow, Mercy Fuller, Hannah Pummery, Mary Cushman, Abigail Chandler, Deborah Brewster, Content Weston, and also the Children of my Daughter Susanna deceased To Have their Mothers Part divided equally amongst them out of My personal Estate. And for the faithfull Performance of this my last Will & Testament I appoint my Eldest Son Ransom Jackson Executor and by this my last Will. I Declare all former Wills to be void and that ye Disposition made in Manner abovesd is made according to my full Intent In Confirmation of which I have hereunto Set my Hand & Seal this twenty Sixth Day of June one thousand Seven hundred & thirty Six—1736

In Presence of Us                                                                                                                 Eleazer Jackson                                (seal)

Ebenezer Ransom

Elizabeth Kempton

Othniel Campbell

 

Proved on 24 Sept. 1736 by Ebenezer Ransom, Elizabeth Kempton, and Mr. Othniel Campbell, the witnesses.

 

Mr. Joseph Lucas, Mr. Samuel Shaw & Mr. Ebenezer Ransom, all of Plimton, were appointed to appraise the estate of Eleazer Jackson, late of Plimton, on 24 Sept. 1736. The Inventory of all the Estate both real & personal of Eleazer Jackson, late of Plimton, Gentm, dated 27 Dec. 1736, was not totaled, but his Homestead dwelling house, barn & land adjoining was valued at £240, a Cedar Swamp valued at £17, and some other lands. Ransom Jackson, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 27 Dec. 1736.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 7, pp. 226, 251-252, from FHL microfilm #0550513.

 

 

Will of James Jackson of Flushing, Queens County, Province of New York (1735) *

In the name of God amen I James Jackson of Flushing in Queens County within the Province of New York Yeoman being Sick and weak but of sound and perfect mind and memory Praise be therefore given to Almighty God Do make & Ordain this my Present Last Will and Testament in manner and form following (that is to say) first and Principally I commend my Soul into the hands of Almighty God hopeing through the merrits of my Saviour Jesus Christ to have full Pardon and forgiveness of all my Sins and to inherit Everlasting Life and my Body I Committ to the Earth to be Decently buried at the Discretion of my Executors hereafter named and as touch the Disposition of all such Temporal Estate as it hath pleased God to bestow upon me I give and Dispose thereof as follows,  First I Will and Order that all the Debts which I do owe unto any Person or Persons and my funerall Charges shall be well and truly satisfyed and Paid,  Item I give and bequeath unto my well beloved Wife Abigail the sum of two hundred and fifty Pounds Lawfull money of New York to be paid by my Executors hereafter named at some reasonable time after my Decease the same being for her subsistance and support during her Life and also a Negroe Girl Slave Called Sylvia and after the Decease of my said Wife I Will and bequeath one hundred Pounds of the afore recited money unto my sons William, Joseph, Richard, Robert, Samuel, Steven, Benjamin, Thomas, James and John to be equally divided amongst them share and share alike and to their heirs and assigns for ever and the aforesaid Negroe Girl Slave Called Sylvia I give unto my Daughters Rebecca Seamans, Charity Dingey, Elizabeth Field, Hannah Hicks, Martha Jackson, Phebe Randal & Jemima Hicks to be equally divided after being sold between them share and share alike and to their heirs and assigns for ever,  Item my Will is and I do Order that all and singular my lands Messuages and Tenements wheresoever the same may be found shall be sold to the best Advantage after my Decease by my Executors hereafter named at their discretion and the moneys ariseing from such sale shall be applied shall be applyed and paid in manner and form following that is to say the before mentioned bequeathed two hundred and fifth Pounds unto my said Wife Abigail for the uses aforesaid,  Item I give and bequeath unto Jacob Steven and John Townsend the Sons of Nathaniel Townsend to each of them the sum of fifteen Pounds New York Money and to their heirs & assigns forever and the sume of one hundred and fifty five Pounds I give and bequeath unto my Daughters Sarah, Rebeccah, Charity, Elizabeth, Hannah, Martha, Pheby, and Jemimah aforesaid to be equally divided between them and to their heirs and assigns forever. I also further give and bequeath unto my said Daughters and to their heirs and assigns forever all and singular my moveables of what kind or nature soever they be or wheresoever to be found to be equally shared and Divided between them but it is the True intent and meaning hereof that before such division thereof be made my Daughter Sarah Clements to whom I have formerly given a negroe Woman Shall have the sum of Sixty Pounds short what the Rest of my said Daughters have and that before such Division my Daughter Martha shall have my Negro Girl called Nanny to her and her heirs and assigns forever, Item I do Will and Ordain that the Residue and Remaining part of the moneys which shall arise from the Sale of my Messuages Lands and Tenements aforesaid shall be applyed as follows, that is to say I give and bequeath unto my Sons Joseph, Richard, Robert and Samuel and to their heirs and Assigns for ever Each the sum of fifty Pounds New York money and unto Steven and Benjamin and their heirs and assigns each the Sum of Seventy Pounds and what moneys there shall be then Remaining shall be equally divided Share and Share alike unto all my said Male Children that is to say William, Joseph, Richard, Robert, Samuel, Stephen, Benjamin, Thomas, James and John and to their heirs & assigns forever, And my Son James for whom I am Counter Security to James Burling for one hundred Pound Bond and having paid the Interest thereof several years which said Bond and the money therein due with the interest if paid at any time and Discharged by my Executors and thereby Acquitting my said Son James from payin the same the said James shall then have so much short of his share in the Division with the Rest of my said Sons, And I do hereby revoke Disannull and make void all former Wills and Testaments by me at any time made and do also hereby nominate & appoint Richard Jackson, Samuel Jackson and Henry Hicks to be the Executors of this my Last Will & Testament, In Testimony whereof I the said James Jackson have hereunto set my hand and Seal the twenty Seventh day of September in the year of our Lord Seventeen hundred and thirty five.

                                                                                                                                                James Jackson                  (seal)

Signed Sealed Published Pronounced and Declared by the said James Jackson as his Last Will and Testament (severall razours being first herein made) in presence of Gabriel Luff, John Doughty, William Mott.

 

Probated on 21 Oct. 1735, and Letters of Administration were granted to Richard Jackson and Henry Hicks, two of the Executors, with the power reserved to Samuel Jackson.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from New York County Probate, Vol. 12, p. 336-339, copied from original Liber 12, p. 362-365.

 

 

Will of Nathaniel Jackson of Plymouth, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1743) *

The Last Will and Testament of Nathaniel Jackson Senr. of Plymouth in the County of Plymouth in New England yeoman. I Nathaniel Jackson being Aged and weak in body but of sound and Disposeing mind & Memory Do make & appoint these presents to be my Last Will and Testament in Manner and form following: I Commend my Soul to god that gave it & my body to a Decent Funeral hopeing for a Joyfull Resurrection through Jesus Christ ~~ And as to my worldly Estate after my Just Debts & funerall Charges (with the Legacies in this will Mendiond are paid and Discharged by my Executor hereafter in these Presents mention’d I Give and Bequeath as follows —

Imprimis To my Eldest son Nathaniel Jackson all the Land with the Appurtenances That I bought of Isaac Doten and one half of my pasture near the house where Eleazer King now lives all in Plymo. aforesd. with One half of my land in Hallifax or Middleboro. near to Tomsons, and half my Right in the Grist mill & half my Right in the Saw Mill there, all to him his heirs & Assigns forever, I allso give him Three Eighths of the new Scooner & built ye. last winter whereof John Kempton is now Master, and ye. Bed I lye upon with the Furniture belonging to it —

2  I Give and Bequeath to my son Samuel Jackson all my Right and Intrest in Plimton in the County aforesd: viz, Housing Land Meadow & Swamps with the Appurtenances to him his heirs and assigns forever and allso One Bed & the Beding belonging to it and the Saw mill on the Premises in Plymton aforesd. I Say all my Right there but what Jno. Rickard and I owed together in the first Great Lot —

3. I Give and bequeath unto my Daughter Ruth Turner wife to David Turner of Plymouth aforesaid One hundred pounds in bills of the old tenour to be paid within a year after my decease, And one bed and Furniture thereof —

4  I Give to John Jones and Sarah Jones Children of my daughter Ann Deceas’d Ten pounds apeice in bills of the old tenour to be paid within a year after my Death —

5. I Give and bequeath unto Joseph Treble son of my said Daughter Ann The Land I bought of James Shurtleff lying by Little pond so Called in Plymo. aforesd. not far from the sd. Pasture near Eleazer Kings and all my Remaining Right in the First Great Lott That mr. John Rickard Deceasd & I owned together in the propriety of Plymouth and Plymton aforesd. with the Appurtenances, to him his heirs and Assigns forever—

6. I Give to John Treble son of my sd. Daughter twenty shillings old tenour—

7  I Give & Bequeath to Joseph Jackson son of my son Joseph Jackson Deceasd the house I built with ye land where my Father formerly lived vizt. all my Right on that side ye. Street near to or adjoyning on Spring hill so called in Plymouth aforesd. with the Appurtenances thereof I intend all on the East side of ye. Street only to the sd. Joseph Jackson my Grandson, To him his heirs and assigns forever—

8. I Give to Lois Jackson Daughter to my sd. Son Joseph Deceasd, The sum of five pounds Old tenour—

9  I Give to Nicholas Spinks my Great Grand Child twenty shillings old tenour, And finally all the Rest and Residue of my Estate whatsoever, & Wheresoever both Real & personal, I Give & bequeath to my son Thomas Jackson whom I do make and Constitute Sole Executor of this my last Will and Testament (to Receive Debts & pay all Debts and Legacies out of his part) by these presents —  Hereby Revokeing and disanulling all former wills by me made & Confirming this to be my Last will and Testament Only. And in Testimony hereof I have hereunto set my hand and Seal this twenty ninth day of April One thousand seven hundred & forty three —

Signed Sealed & Declared

To be his last will &                                                                                                            Nathaniel Jackson                           (seal)

Testamt. In presence of

Josiah Cotton

Josiah Carver

Benja. Jackson

Kezia Adams

 

Probated on 14 July 1743, and proved by Josiah Cotton Esqr, Jonah Carver and Kezia Adams. Letters of Administration were granted to Thomas Jackson of Plymo., yeoman, the Executor, on 14 July 1743. No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 9, p. 110-112, from FHL microfilm #0551533.

 

 

Will of Nathanial Jackson of Plymouth, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1746) *

In the Name of God Amen I Nathaniel Jackson of Plimouth in the County of Plimouth in New England being weak of body but of a sound and Disposeing Mind & Memory Do make and Ordain this to be my last will & Testament hereby revokeing and Disanulling all other wills by me heretofore made First of all I recomend my immortall Soul to God that Gave it, And my body to a Decent burial according to the Discretion of my Execrs. hereafter named— And as to my Worldly Estate I dispose & Order in manner following— That all my Just debts & funeral Charges be paid and discharged out of my Personal Estate, and then— Imprimis, I Grant & bequeath to my loving wife Rebecca Jackson The use Benyfit & profitt of my Homestead being about forty Acres of land partly wood land & partly Cleard in Plimouth aforesaid with a Dwelling house thereon, Namely all the sd. House Execpt what is hereafter in this will Granted unto my son Lemuel Jackson, as allso the use of my Household Stuff, and the profitt that might belong to me by Vertue of the use & Improvement of my Schooner, that is the Vessels part, Except one Eighth, all dureing her Naturall life if She remain my widdow.— And the Cattle & Horse kine I bequeath to her & her disposall, and hereby allow her allso the Liberty and benyfit of provideing a Hand to make Fish or go to Sea with my son Lemuel if She see cause. But if She marry again to have and Enjoy the said Houshold Stuff dureing her life and the Cattle and Horse as aforesaid—

Item. I will and bequeath to my Son Lemuel the present use & Improvement of part of my Dwelling house, viz The Kitchin or Leantoo, and a little Bed room with privilige in the Great Cellar Half Cellar & Chamber, & After ye. decease or Marriage of my sd. wife the whole of sd. House & Homestead to him his Heirs and Assigns forever— I allso Give him at my Decease One Eighth part of my Schooner if there remain so much after my Just Debts & Charges are paid out of the Moveable Estate – And if he Sees Cause to prevent Selling of the Schooner he paying Debts, he may so do by paying the same out of his own Estate and take the Schooner to himselfe— all this to him, Provided he pay to his Brother Nathaniel Jackson the sum of One hundred pounds in bills of Creditt or other pay to his Aue plause not roone then money at Thirty Shillings pr. ounce, and to his Six Sisters viz Lydia Abigail, Hannah, Rebecca Elizabeth & Mary the Sum of Twenty pounds Each in like like bills or pay within two years after my said wifes decease or Mariage or to then Surviveor or Surviveors of them, which said sums I Give to them & their Heirs forever. The said Six Daughter of Surviveors of them are allso to have what Houshold Stuff their mother leaves at her decease. all the rest of my Estate to be equally divided amongst my said Children Execpt Lemuel. And finally I appoint my said wife & Son Lemuel to be Execrs. of this my last will and Testament- And in witness & Confirmation of the previcsses I have hereunto set my hand and Seal the 16th day of July Anno Domini 1746 ~

Signed Sealed Published & Declared                                                                                                 his

to be his last will and Testament                                                                                     Nathaniel  D  Jackson         (seal)

In presence of                                                                                                                                      mark

Josiah Cotton

Thomas Jackson

Hannah Cotton

 

Probated on 16 Sept. 1746, and proved by Josiah Cotton Esqr, Thomas Jackson, and Hannah Cotton, the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to the Executors Rebecca Jackson, widdow, and Lemuel Jackson, Fisherman, both of Plimouth, on 16 Sept. 1746.

 

Thomas Foster, Joseph Bartlett junr. and Thomas Holmes, all of Plimouth, were appointed to appraise the estate of Nathaniel Jackson, late of Plimouth, on 17 Sept. 1746. The Inventory was dated 28 Oct. 1746, and totaled £425.1.3, including his Schooner Canoe & Appurtenances valued at £165, and his Homestead & buildings thereon valued at £187.10. Lemuel Jackson, one of the Executors, gave his oath to the inventory on 17 Dec. 1746.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 10, p. 310-313, from FHL microfilm #0551535.

 

 

Will of Samuel Jackson of Plympton, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1745) *

In the name of God, Amen, the Fifteenth day of June 1745. I Samuel Jackson of Plimton in the County of Plimouth New England, Inholder being in Good health of body and of Sound disposeing mind and memory but Considering the uncertainty of human life do make & ordain this my Last will & Testament in manner and form following —

Principally and First of all I Commit my Soul into the Hands of God Relying alone on his mercy thro: Jesus Christ for the pardon of my Sin and Aue plause with him: My body I Commit to ye. Earth to be decently Inter’d at the Discretion of my Executor herein after named And for my Temporal Goods & Estate, I will that they be disposed off in the following manner—

Imprimis I will and order that all my Just Debts & funeral Charges Be well and truly paid by my Executor with all Convenient Speed Next after my Decease —

Item, I Give Demise and bequeath all my Estate Both Real & personal whatsoever and wheresoever the Same is or may be found to my Beloved wife Hannah dureing her Widdowhood~ and then to my well beloved Kinsman Jabez Mendall his Heirs and assigns~

Item, I Doe hereby Nominate Consitute and appoint my Beloved Kinsman Jabez Mendall to be the Sole Executor of this my Last Will and Testament hereby Revokeing & making Null & void all former and other wills made by me at any time heretofore And Ratyfieing & Confirming this and no other to be my Last Will and Testament  In Witness whereof I have hereunto Set My hand and Seal the Day & year above written —

Signed Sealed & Declared by the

Said Samuel Jackson to be his

Last Will & Testament—                                                                                                  Samuel Jackson                (seal)

Consider Howland

Gideon White

Joseph Bridgham

 

Probated on 17 Dec. 1745, and proved by Consider Howland, Gideon White and Joseph Bridgham, the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Jabez Mendall of Plimton, the Executor, on 19 Dec. 1745. No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 10, p. 68-70, from FHL microfilm #0551535.

 

 

Will and Codicil of Samuel Jackson of Jerusalem, Hempstead, Queens County, New York (1778) *

I Samuel Jackson,– Senr. of Jerusalem in the Township of Hempsted in Queens County in the Colony of New York on the Twenty Sixth Day of July in the year of Our Lord and Saviour Christ, one thousand seven hundred and Seventy Eight. being weak and infirm of Body but of perfect memory and of a sound Disposing mind, Calling to mind the mortality of my Body Do therefore make and ordain this my last Will & Testament.

Imprimis. I will that all my Just and Lawful Debts be paid out of my Moveable Estate. Item I give unto my wife Mary Jackson in Lieu & Stead of her right of Dower, the Sum of Two hundred pounds New York Money to be paid unto my said Wife her Heirs and assigns within one year after my Decease, also one Horse & Riding Chair & one negro Girl named Catherine. Item I will that the Horse & riding Chair above mentioned be such that my above named Wife may Chuse. Item I give unto my said Wife Mary Jackson so long as She my said Wife Continues My Widow & not otherways, the Sum of Forty Pounds new York Money yearly and every year during the time above said, & the use of one half of my Dwelling House were I now live, with half of the Cellar under the same. Item I will that the above mentioned Horse which my said wife my Chuse be kept with Grass Hay & Grain & Firewood Cut & Carted to the Door for the use of my above said Wife during her Widowhood as abovesaid, Item I give unto my Daughter Ruth Jackson the Sum of three hundred pounds New York Money, one hundred pound to be paid unto my said Daughter Ruth her Heirs and assigns within one year after my Decease and & the Sum of Two hundred pounds the residue of the above Sum of three hundred pounds to be paid unto my said Daughter Her heirs and assigns within two years from thence next Following, Item I give unto my Daughter Mary the Sum of Two hundred & fifty pounds New York money, One hundred pounds there of to be paid unto my said Daughter her Heirs & Assigns within one year after my Decease, & the residue of said two hundred and Fifty pounds within two years from thence next Following, Item I give unto my Daughter Jemima the Sum of One hundred and Fifty pounds New York Money over and above what I have already given her before this time to be paid unto my said Daughter Jemima her Heirs & Assigns within two years After my Decease, Item I give unto my Daughters Letiticia & Martha the sum of Three hundred & Forty Six pounds New York money to be equally divided between my said last named Daughters their Heirs and assigns and to be paid unto them their Heirs and assigns within two years after my Decease, Item I give unto my Wife Mary Jackson, and my Daughters Ruth & Mary all my Household Goods within Doors Including all the Cloth both Linnen and Woollen to be equally divided between them their Heirs and assigns. Item I Will that my said Wife Mary Jackson make up the yarn not made into Cloth and the Cloth not made into Cloaths that may be left at my Decease for the use of my Children that may then be at home with her as she my said wife may think proper.–

Item I will that my Daughters Ruth and Mary Live with my said Wife or their Brothers Townsend & Thomas Jackson, so long as they my said Daughters Continue unmarried, Item I give unto my Grandson Samuel Jackson one Horse of the Value of Twenty pounds and a Saddle & Bridle to be Delivered to my said Grand Son when he arives to Sixteen years years of age. Item I give and bequeath unto my son Richard Jack & his Heirs and assigns over and above what I have already given him in money and otherways the equal half of the Lands which I purchased of Joseph Lockwood & Thomas and Elnathan Hanford at or near Cold Spring in the Township of Oysterbay, in the County and Collony aforesaid to be taken on the North side of the said Tract of Land above mentioned, Item I give and bequeath unto my sons Townsend Jackson & Thomas Jackson their Heirs and assigns all the residue and remainder of my Estate both Lands meadows moveable of all kinds whatsoever to be equally divided between them their Heirs and Assigns always, Excepting so much xxx of my Lands & Meadows and moveables necessary to be sold to pay and Discharge all my Just & Lawfull Debts and all the Sums of Money which I have herein above given or Legacies to my other Children above said that is not herein above mentioned, and lastly I do Constitute appoint and ordain my Son Townsend Jackson & Thomas Jackson & My Nephew George Hewlet Executors of this my last Will and Testament, hereby Authorising & Impower them & the Surviviors or Survivor of them to perform and fulfill the same and every part thereof by giving proper Deeds of Conveyance for the Land & in order which they may Judge proper to be Sold for the payment of my Debts & Legacies herein above given by me as abovesaid & otherways to fullfil the same.– In Witness whereof I have hereunto Set my Hand and Seal the Day & year herein first Above Written. –

                                                                                                                                                Samuel Jackson                                (seal)

Published pronounced & Delivered by the said Samuel Jackson as his last Will and Testament, in the Presence of us the Subscribers, who in his Presence & in the Presence of each other Subscribed our Names as Witnesses, the word (their) between the Sixteen & Seventeen Lines also the word (York) between the third and fourth lines all the words (& aboved) between the 28th 29 lines first Interlind as also the Letters (O & C) in the first Line. – Wm Jones, Richd Jackson, Jacob Jackson.—

 

I Samuel Jackson Senior of Jerusalem in the Township of Hempsted in Queens County in the Colony of New York Do this Seventeenth Day of February in the year of Our Lord one thousand Seven hundred and Eighty make and publish this my Codicil to my last Will & Testament in Manner following, That is to Say: Whereas I have in and by my last Will & Testament given and bequeathed unto my son Richard Jackson his Heirs and assigns the equal half of the Lands which I purchased of Joseph Lockwood & Thomas & Elnathan Handford at or near Cold Spring in the Township of Oysterbay in the County & Collony abovesaid to be taken on the north Side of the said Tract of Land; Now I Do hereby revoke the said Devise and Bequest to My said Son Richard And do hereby give and Devise the same Lands so given and Bequeathed to my said Son Richard in & by my last Will and Testament unto my Grand Son Samuel Jackson the son of my Son Richard and to his Heirs and Assigns forever; Item I hereby release acquit & Discharge my said Son Richard of and from all Debts and Demands which I may have against him on account of Monies I have paid for or Lent or advanced to him or otherwise howsoever: Item I give & give and bequeath unto my my wife Mary over and above what I have Given her in & by my last Will and Testament One Cow to be chosen by her out of My Cows and also as much fruit yearly as She may want for her own use during her Widowhood and also the Privilege of planting & Sowing in my Garden such Things as she may think proper yearly & every year during her Widowhood; Item I give to my Daughter Ruth over and above what I have given to her in & By my said last Will & Testament one good Cow and my will is that my Sons Townsend Jackson and Thomas Jackson and their Heirs find and provide Grass and Hay for one Cow for my said Daughter Ruth as long as She continues unmarried, and also Grass and Hay for one Cow for my said Wife Mary during her Widowhood, Item Whereas I have in and by my last Will and Testament given my Daughter Mary one third part of All My household Goods within Doors including all the Cloth both Linnen and Woolen and my said Daughter Mary being since Married and I expect to give xxx her immediately Part of the said Household Goods I do there fore Revoke the said Gift of the said Household Goods to my said Daughter Mary and do hereby give the said Household Goods to My said Wife Mary and my Daughter Ruth equally to be Divided between them; Item I give and bequeath unto each of my Daughters Ruth, Jemima, Letitia, Mary and Martha the Sum of Fifty pounds New York Money each over and above the Legacies given to them in and by my last Will & Testament to be paid to them respectively by my Sons Townsend Jackson & Thomas Jackson or their Heirs within three years after my Decease, and I hereby Charge all the Estate given to my said sons Townsend & Thomas in & by my said last Will and Testament with the payment of the said Several Sums of Fifty Pounds to each of my said Daughters, And I hereby Autherize and empower the Executors named & Appointed in & by my said last Will & Testament and the Survivors and Survivor of them to Sell so much of the Estate given to my Sons Townsend & Thomas in & by my said last Will & Testament either real or personal at their Discretion as may be necessary to pay the Several Legacies in my Said last Will & Testament and in this Codicil mentioned; Item I also give to my said Daughter Mary the further Sum of Ten pounds New York Money to be paid to her with the said Sum of Fifty Pounds above Mentioned, and lastly it is my Desire that this present Codicil be annexed to and made part of my last Will and Testament to all intents and purposes, and I hereby Confirm every Part of my said last Will and Testament not altered by this present Codicil. In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and Seal the Day and year first Above written. –

                                                                                                                                                Samuel Jackson                                (seal)

Signed Sealed & published by the said Samuel Jackson the Testator as a Codicil to be annexed to his Will in the Presence of us who Subscribe our names as Witnesses at his Request in his Presence and in the Presence of each Other. – John Jackson Junr. Jacob Jackson, Samuel Jones.—

 

Presented for probate on 29 Nov. 1780, and proved by Jacob Jackson of Queens County, yeoman, and John Jackson Junr. of Queens County, yeoman. Letters of Administration were granted to Townsend Jackson, Thomas Jackson and George Hewlett, the Executors in the said will named, on 6 Dec. 1780.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from New York County Probate Vol. 34, p. 33-38, copied from original Libor 34, p. 25-28.

 

 

Will of Samuel Jackson of Plymouth, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1803) *

In the name of God Amen I Samuel Jackson of Plymouth in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts Merchant being advanced in Years but of sound & disposing Mind & Memory do make & ordain this my last Will and Testament. —

In the first place it is my Will that my Executor shall pay all my just debts and funeral charges —

I secondly will and bequeath to my beloved Wife Experience for & during the Term of her natural Life my Dwelling House in which I now reside & the out Houses & yard thereto belonging & one third of the Wood lands for the purpose of supplying her with sufficient fire-wood for her own use – also one third of the reasonable rent of all my improved Lands & Tenements to be ascertained & established by the Judgment of those who shall be appointed to appraise & divide my real Estate —

Thirdly I give to my Son Samuel ten dollars to be paid him in one month after my decease by my Executor —

Fourthly the rest and residue of my Estate both real & personal of which I shall die the owner, I give and bequeath to my Children & Grandchildren to be divided into nine equal Parts & distributed as follows – to my Son Thomas one ninth part, to the Children of my Son Samuel, one ninth part, to my daughter Experience Cotton one ninth part, to my daughter Mary Russell one ninth part to my daughter Elizabeth Brooks one ninth part, to the Children of my daughter Deborah Crombie deceased one ninth part to my Son George one ninth part, to my daughter Naomy Crombie one ninth part, to my daughter Hannah Bartlett one ninth part. The portions hereby given to the Children of my daughter Deborah deceased to be equally divided among them and the portion given to the Children of my Son Samuel to be equally divided among them & to be paid & delivered respectively to each, as they shall arrive to the Age of twenty one years, unless the Grand daughters shall any of them marry before they arrive to that age, in which case it shall be paid & delivered to them at the time of Marriage – It is further my will, that the portions assigned to my Grand daughters shall be in Money & shall be loaned on lawful Interest by my Executors till the Grand daughters aforesaid are capable to take the same; on good & sufficient security and the yearly Interest, if necessary, applied to the Education of said Grand daughters, at the Discretion of my Executors, & if not necessary for that purpose, then to be added yearly to the principal & paid together with it to said Grand-daughters, when they become capable to take the same by this Will. –

It is also my Will that the Executors appointed in this Will take the best care of the Real & personal Estate, which shall according to this Will be assigned to my Grandsons; so that the same be not wasted, & the Interest of personal Estate & Rents of the Real Estate shall be yearly collected & put on Interest and prudently managed for them till they respectively arrive to the Age of twenty one years. And if either of my Grand children die before they are capable by this Will to take their portions, then my Will is that the portion of such Grandchild be equally divided among the surviving Brothers & sisters. –

The Real Estate thus bequeathed to be held by the several persons to whom it shall be assigned according to this Will in fee simple except what regards the limited survivorship of the Grand children above described. Finally I hereby appoint my Son Thomas Jackson and my Son-in-Law Zacheus Bartlett Executors of this my last will and Testament. In witness whereof I have hereunto subscribed my Name this twenty sixth day of March in the Year of our Lord eighteen hundred & three –

  subscribed to & declared to be his last Will

  and Testament in presence of us –

        Benja. Warren

        David Bacon

        Jno. D Dunbar                                                                                                              Samuel Jackson

        Wm. Dunbar

 

Presented for probate on 4 April 1805 by Thomas Jackson and Zaccheus Bartlett, the Executors therein named, and proved by Benjamin Warren and John D. Dunbar, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Thomas Jackson and Zacheus Bartlett Esqr. the before named Executors.

 

The Inventory of the Estate and Effect of Mr Samuel Jackson, late of Plymouth, was appraised on 5 Oct. 1805 by Nathaniel Goodwin, Joseph Bartlett, and Charles Jackson, and totaled $27,705.43, including his real estate valued at $24,181, which consisted of several parcels of property, houses, wharves, building yards, a brick mansion house, farm land, etc. Zacheus Bartlett Esqr. and Mr Thomas Jackson, the Executors, gave their oath to the inventory on 23 Dec. 1805.

 

Nathaniel Goodwin Esqr., Joseph Bartlett ye 3d, and William Goodwin, Gentlemen, all of Plymouth, were appointed to divide the estate of Samuel Jackson into nine equal parts and set off to Thomas Jackson, Experience the wife of Abraham Haskell, Mary Russell, Elizabeth the wife of Samuel Brooks, George Jackson, Naomi the wife of Calvin Crombie, and Hannah the wife of Zacheus Bartlett Esqr. each one share, the Children of his Son Samuel Jackson one share, and the Children and Heirs of his daughter Deborah Crombie deceased one share, on 18 Dec. 1805. The division was dated 7 Jan. 1806.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 40, pp. 192-194, 336-349, from FHL microfilm #0550901.

 

 

Will of Thomas Jackson Jr. of Plymouth, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1837) *

        Be it Remembered that I Thomas Jackson Jr of Plymouth in the County of Plymouth, & Commonwealth of Massachusetts, being of sound & perfect mind & memory, but in consideration of the imperfect state of my health, do think it best to dispose of my estate, both real & personal, and do make and publish this my last Will and Testament thereof in the following manner.

        I give and bequeath to my beloved wife Sarah Jackson, the use and improvement of my dwelling house and lot of land in this town where I now live, during her natural life, the same being in common with that which descended to my niece Frances L. Maynard from her late father William Jackson Esqr. – I also give and bequeath to her all of my household furniture, provisions and clothing of every description.

        I give and bequeath to my nephew Leavit T. Jackson of Brunswick in Maine, all of my undivided right in the lot of land that I bought of Job Cobb and others in this town, bounded Eastwardly by Main street, Westwardly by School street, Northwardly by the house lot formerly belonging to Timothy Goodwin and Southwardly by the lot appertaining to the house wherein I dwell – I also give and bequeath to him all of my undivided right in the lot at the water side formerly called the building lot, with the stores thereon, and any goods of mine therein: Also all of my right in the Long Wharf in this town.

        I give and bequeath to my nephew, David B. Jackson, of Illinois, Five hundred dollars in money, to be paid to him by my Executor.

        I give and bequeath to my niece Frances L. Maynard all that part of my wood lot lying back of the pond, called Billington Sea & Eastward of the brook running into the pond, beginning at the pond & at the brook – thence Southerly by the brook to a large pine tree – thence South to Stephen’s line – thence Northeast to the corner of the lot that descended to said Frances from her late father – thence North by her said lot to the pond – thence by the pond to the first mentioned bound. I also give and bequeath to her two hundred dollars in money to be paid to her by my Executor.

        I give and bequeath to my niece Rebecca Robbins, the wife of Josiah Robbins, that part of my wood lot lying back of Billington sea & westward of the brook, beginning at a Maple tree & heap of stones by the pond, a corner of a lot belonging to said Rebecca & Isaac C. Jackson – thence by the pond to the brook – thence by the brook until it comes near a swamp – thence crossing the brook to a large pine tree – thence South to the line of Stephens’ lot thence S.West to the line of the lot of said Rebecca & Isaac C. Jackson – thence by that line to the first mentioned bound. I also give and bequeath to her two hundred dollars in money to be paid to her by my Executor.

        I give and bequeath to my sister Priscilla Cotton, the wife of Rosseter Cotton Esq. Ten shares of Stock in Plymouth Bank – I also give and bequeath to her my wood lot at Owl Swamp, which I bought of Lydia Jackson 2d, and which joins the land of her husband Rosseter Cotton Esqr – I also give to her the wood lot which I bought of Anna May Bartlett and which joins the last mentioned lot.

        I give and bequeath to my sister Lucy Marcy ten shares of Stock in Plymouth Bank.

        I give and bequeath to my niece Hannah J. Goodwin Ten Shares of Stock in Plymouth Bank ~

        I give and bequeath to my nephew John T. Cotton of Boylston, in trust, for the sole use & benefit of my sister Rebecca Cotton, the wife of Revd Ward Cotton of Boylston & the mother of said trustee, Twenty shares of Stock in the New England Marine Insurance Company in the City of Boston, and also five shares of stock in the Boston Marine Insurance Company, which is also in the City of Boston – The profits arising from the said stocks is to be paid to my said sister Rebecca, or to her order, as often as it shall be received by said trustee – and said trust is not to be subject, or liable in any manner whatever to the control, debt or engagements of her husband – and I hereby give to said trustee full power and authority to dispose of the said Stocks, and the receipt of my said sister, signed with her proper name, or of any person of her appointment shall be a good & sufficient discharge for so much of the principal, income or profits thereof, as shall be expressed to be received, not withstanding her present coverture: But if my said sister should survive her present husband, it is my Will that the said trustee shall deliver up said trust, and pay over to my said sister, the said stock, with all the interest or income that is due thereon, – and in the event of the death of my said sister before the death of her husband, I give & bequeath the whole of said stocks to John T. Cotton, Ward M. Cotton, Sally M. Cotton and Hannah S. P. Cotton, children of my said sister Rebecca Cotton to be divided equally between them – and in case of the death of either of them, without his or her having heir of his or her own body – then said trust to go to the survivor or survivors equally.

        I give and bequeath to my niece Maria T. Jackson, twenty shares of stock in the Boston Marine Insurance Company in the City of Boston.

        I give and bequeath to my nephew, Charles T. Jackson of Boston, Seven shares of stock in Boston Marine Insurance Company, in the City of Boston.

        I give and bequeath to my niece Lydia Emerson, the wife of Revd Ralph W. Emerson of Concord, Seven shares of stock in the Boston Marine Insurance Company in the City of Boston.

        I give and bequeath to my nephew Charles T. Jackson of Boston, in trust, for the sole use & benefit of my niece, his sister, Lucy C. Brown, the wife of Charles Brown, Seven shares in the stock of the Boston Marine Insurance Company in the City of Boston: The profits arising from said Stock is to be paid to said Lucy, or to her order, as often as it shall be received by said Trustee – and said trust is not to be liable in any manner whatever, to the control, debts or engagements of her husband – And I hereby give to said trustee full power & authority to dispose of the aforesaid stock, and the receipt of said Lucy Brown, signed with her proper name, or of any person of her appointment, shall be a good & sufficient discharge for so much of the principal, income or profits thereof, as shall be expressed to be received, not withstanding her present coverture – but if said Lucy should survive her present husband, it is my will that said Trustee shall deliver up the said trust, & pay over to the said Lucy the said stock, with all the profits or income due thereon – And in the event of the death of said Lucy before the death of her husband, then I give & bequeath the whole of said trust to Sophia Brown & Charles F. Brown, children of said Lucy, to be equally divided between them – and in case of the death of either of them without his or her having heir of his or her own body, then said property in trust, is to go to the survivor – and in the event of the death of said Lucy & of both of her said children, then said property in trust is to go to Charles T. Jackson & Lydia Emerson the wife of Revd Ralph W. Emerson equally, or to their heirs.

        I give and bequeath to my nephews, Daniel Jackson & Abraham Jackson equally, one half of my right to claim for spoilations on my property by the authorities or subjects of France previous to the year 1800.

        I give and bequeath to my niece Sarah Bartlett, the wife of James Bartlett Jr, the other half of my beforementioned right to Claim for French Spoilations.

                                                                The rest and residue of my personal estate I dispose of in the following manner, viz—

        I give and bequeath to my beloved wife Sarah Jackson, one half of all the said residue of my personal estate.

        I give and bequeath to my Sister Lydia Jackson one sixth part of all the said residue of my personal estate.

        I give and bequeath to my nephews, Daniel Jackson, Abraham Jackson, Jacob Jackson, Thomas T. Jackson, Isaac C. Jackson & William M. Jackson one sixth part of all said residue of my personal estate, to each an equal part thereof.

        I give and bequeath to Sarah Bartlett, the wife of James Bartlett Jr the remaining one sixth part of all the aforesaid residue of my personal estate.

        I give and bequeath to my nephews, Daniel Jackson, Abraham Jackson, Jacob Jackson, Thomas T. Jackson, Isaac C. Jackson & William M. Jackson in equal shares, one half of all the rest and residue of my Real Estate, or of that part thereof, which I have not herein before disposed of.

        I give and bequeath the remaining one half of the said residue of my Real Estate, to my niece Sarah Bartlett, the wife of James Bartlett Junr.

        In the foregoing bequest of my Real Estate, it is my meaning & intention to dispose of not only that which I now have, but also all such as I may hereafter have.

        It is my desire, & I do hereby will & direct, that all that part of my estate which I have herein devised to my nephews Daniel, Abraham, Jacob, Thomas T. Isaac C. & William M. sons of my late brother Daniel Jackson, shall be paid & delivered over to my nephew Abraham Jackson, to be by him divided with his said brethren, in conformity to my bequest & the receipt of said Abraham therefor, to my Executor herein after named, shall be a good & sufficient discharge, and the receipt of said Daniel, Jacob Thomas T. Isaac C. & William M. to said Abraham shall be to him a good & sufficient discharge.

        Finally, I hereby constitute & appoint James Bartlett Junr of Plymouth aforesaid my sole Executor of this my last Will and Testament.

        In Testimony Whereof, I have hereunto set my hand & seal this twenty ninth day of July in the year of our Lord eighteen hundred & thirty seven.

        Signed, sealed, published & declared by the within named Thomas Jackson Jr to be his last Will & Testament in presence of us, who, at his request & in his presence & in the presence of each other, have hereunto subscribed our names as witnesses to the same.

        John Bartlett 3d

        Charles May                                                                                                                 Thomas Jackson Junr.                    (seal)

        Thomas May

 

Presented for probate on the first Tuesday of Oct. 1837 by James Bartlett the Executor therein named, and proved by Charles May and Thomas May, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters Testamentary were granted to James Bartlett Junr., the Executor therein named.

 

Letters of Administration on the estate of Thomas Jackson Junior, late of Plymouth, were granted to James Bartlett Junior, of Plymouth, on 3 Oct. 1837, with Abraham Jackson and Isaac C. Jackson, of Plymouth, as sureties.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Thomas Jackson Jr, late of Plymouth, was appraised on 1 Dec. 1837 by Jno. B. Thomas, Allen Danforth, and Bridgham Russell, his real estate valued at $12,940, and his personal estate valued at $23,274.15. James Bartlett Junior, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on the third Monday of Jan. 1838.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probagte Vol. 79, p. 437-441, from FHL microfilm #0555265, Vol. 1G, p. 55, and Vol. 80, p. 11-13.

 

 

Will of Mary Jenkins of Scituate, County of Plymouth, Provice of the Massachusetts Bay (1705) *

I Mary Jenkins of Scittuate being weake of Body And considering the uncertainty of this Life, and the certainty of death, And as for that Temporall Estate which god hath given me, I doe Will and bequeath in manner is here after Expressed

Imprimis I Give & bequeath unto my son Isaac Ripley my Cow and half my sheep, My brass kittle & Iron pott one pewter Bason and Quart pott. And My bed which I Lodge on with one Coverlidd and one blankett And New cloth to make a pair of sheets. I Give to My son Isaac all my debts which are due to me Except what my Son Thomas Jenkins owes me

Item I Give and Bequeath unto my grand children, the Daughters of my son Abraham Ripley deceased, twenty Shillings apeice in Money – And as for the rest of my Estate my mine & meaning is Shall be Equally divided into five Equal parts that Is to Say one fifth part to Joseph Ripley My[?] Eldest son now living, One fifth part to my son Isaac Ripley one fifth part to my Daughter Mary Wade, one fifth part to my daughter Esther Wibron, one fifth part to My Daughter Rebeckah Smith. And I doe apoint and ordain my son Isaac Ripley to be the Alone Executor of this My last Will and Testament In Witness whereof I have here Unto Sett my hand and Seale the this 26th day of January 1704/5

In presence of us                                                                                                                  the Marke

Stephen Otis                                                                                                                          of   J

the  H  marke of                                                                                                                   Mary Jenkins

Joannah Colman

Zechariah Damon

 

Probated on 20 Dec. 1705, and proved by Stephen Otis and Zachariah Dammon.

 

An Inventory of the Estate & Debts of Mary Jenkins Widdow of Scittuate, Late deceased, dated 18 Sept. 1705, by Stephen Otis and Israell Chittenden, not totaled, but included a debt due by Bill from Thomas Jenkins of £40. Isaac Ripley, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 20 Dec. 1705.

 

Nicholas Wade, of Scituate, was granted administration of the estate of his mother in law Mary Jenkins, late of Scituate, on 29 Dec. 1709, who by her will appointed her son Isaac Ripley as executor of her estate, who is also now deceased.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 2, p. 71-72, 108, from FHL microfilm #0550748.

 

 

Will of Richard Jennings of Bridgewater, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1739) *

In the Name of God. Amen. Aprail 27th 1739 I Richard Jennings of Bridgewater in the county of Plimouth in the Province of the Massachusetts Bay in New England Husban Man Now of perfect Disposing Mind and Memory thanks be given to the Great God yet Calling to Mind the Mortality of My body and Knowing that tis appointed for all Men once to Die do make and ordain this My Last Will and Testement that is to Say princepley and first of all I Give and Recomand my Soule into the Hands of that God Who Gave it and My body I Recomend to the Earth to be buried With Christon decent buriel at the Descretion of My Executor hereafter named nothing Doubting but at the generail Rezerection I Shall Receive the Same again by the Soverin power of allmighty God and as Touching Such Wordy Estat Wherewing it hath pleasech God to Bless Me in this Life I give demise and despose of the Same in the following Maner and forme that is to Say: it is My Will that all my Debts and Funerail Charges be Well and Truly paid in convenant time after My Deceaseh  2ly I Give and Bequeath unto My Well Beloved Son Thomas Jennings Five Shillings having allready givein him a part out of My Estat. 3dly I give and bequeath unto My Well Belovech Son Ephraim Jennings Five Shillings having all Ready given him a part out of My Estate.  4ly I give & Bequeath unto My Well Beloved Son Joseph Jennings five Shillings haveing allredy given him apart of My Estate  5ly I give & Bequeath unto My Well Beloved Son Samll Jennings all My Movable Estate of Every Sort both Within doors and Without Whome I ordain Sole Executor of this My Last Will and Testement and Whoom I appoint to pay Seasonably What in this Will is given and Bequeathed to My above and Hearafter named  6ly I give and Bequeath unto My Well beloved Daughter Mary the Wife of John Tobey five Shillings having allredy given her a part of My Estate  7ly I give & Bequeath unto My Well Beloved Daughter Hannah the Wife of Joseph Leonard five Shillings haveing allredy given her a part of My Estate  8ly I Give and Bequeath unto My Well Beloved Daughter Ann the Wife of John Carver five Shillings having allredy given her a part of My Estate  9ly I do give and Bequeath unto My Well Beloved Daughter Elezaboth the Wife of William Ames five Shillings having allready given her a part of My Estate   Fienaly I appoint and ordain My Well beloved Son Samuel Jennings Sole Executor of this My Last Will and Testement & I do hereby utterly disallow and Revoke all Other Wills before this time by Me Maide Holding Ratifing and Conferming this & no Other to be My Last Will and Testement in Witness Whereof I have hereunto Set My hand and Seal the day and year above Wrighten— — —                                                                                                              his

Signed Sealed & Published pronounced                                                                         Richard  +  Jennings  (seal)

and Decelard By the Said Richard Jennings as his                                                                   marke

Last Will and Testement in presence of us the Subscribers

Joseph Leonard

Nathl Carver

Samll Harden

 

Presented for probate on 7 Oct. 1751, and proved by Nathanel Carver and Samuel Harden, Samuel Jennings confirmed as Sole Executor.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 12, p. 385-386, from FHL microfilm #0551539.

 

 

Will of Edward Jessop of Westchester County, Province of New York (1666) *

                The last Will and Testament

                of Edward Jessop.

               

                West Chester in the County of New~yorke &c.

 

        The last Will & Testament of Edward Jessop being sicke & weake in Body, yet in perfect memory. I bequeath my Soule to ye. Almighty God that Gave it, & my body after my death to bee decently buryed, my funerall to bee discharged, & my Debts to bee pd; I will & bequeath to my daughter Elizabeth Hunt twenty shillings, besides what I have already given her, to bee paid in a yeare & a day after my decease.

I will & bequeath unto my daughter Hanah Jessop the some of five & thirty pounds with what shee hath already, to be payd unto her at Eighteene yeares of age.

I will & bequeath unto my sonne Edward Jessop two Mares with two Colts by their side one is a grey Mare, & the other is a Mare marked on both Eares, with two halfe pence on each Eare, to bee sett out for him for his use a yeare & a day after my decease.

I will & bequeath unto my Grand child Mary Hunt twenty shillings to bee payd in a yeare & a day after my decease.

I will & bequeath unto my Cozen Johannah Burroughs twenty shillings to bee payd in a yeare & a day after my decease.

I will & bequeath unto Derrick Gasson a Cow Calfe to bee pd. unto him in a yeare & a day after my decease.

Furthermore I constitute & appoint my well beloved wife Elizabeth Jesop to bee whole & sole Executrix. And I do will & bequeath unto her all my Lands & Houses & Goods & Cattle moveable or immoveable of this my last Will & Testament & to receive all Debts, Dues & Demands whatsoever, to bee at her disposing, & shee to pay all Debts, Dues & Legacies whatsoever, And shee to bring up my two Children in the feare of God, This I do owne as my last Will & Testamt. & doe disclayme all other Wills, Guifts, Graunts or such like, which may any wise trouble or molest her hereafter, as being of none Effect.

Further I doe appoint my well beloved friends, Mr. Richard Cornhill Justice of peace, Mrs. Sarah Bridges, my Well beloved brother in Law John Burroughes & Ralph Hunt as overseers of this my last Will & Testament, Likewise to bee Assistants to my Executrix in all Causes or difficulties.

And this I do owne, as my owne Act and Deed to all true intents & meanings & doe furthermore ratify & confirme it, as my owne Act & Deed by setting to my hand & seale the day & yeare underwritten.

                August the 6th 1666.

                                                                                                                                                                                Edward Jessop

Signed, Sealed and

delivered in the presence

of

        Witnesses

William Gouldstone

John Richardson

        The marke of

Richd.  h  Horton

 

Memorand. That this day the Will of Edward Jessop Late of Westchester deceased was proved & sworne to be fore us by two of the Witnesses thereunto, & the Inventory of the Goods & Chattells of the person deceased was likewise sworne to by one of the overseers who was present with the Constable of Westchester when the sd. Inventory was taken & apprized. Wittnesse or. hands.

Dated at Flushing the 14th day of Novembr. 1666.

                                                                                                                                R. Nedham

                                                                                                                                M. Nicolls

                                                                                                                                Richd. Cornhill

 

Witnesses to the will                                                                                            John Richardson

that were sworne ~ }                                                                                           William Gouldston

 

Wittnesse to ye. Inventory

sworne                                   }                                                                              Tho. Hunt.

 

This Will was proved out of Sessions-

by the Governors speciall order.

 

                                                                                                                                Elizabeth Jessop admitted

                                                                                                                                Executrix of the last Will and

                                                                                                                                Testament of her Husband.

 

Whereas Elizabeth Jessop of the Towne of Westchester in the North Riding of Yorkeshire upon the Maine, widdow & Relict of Edward Jessop late of the place aforesd. deceased did by the Governrs speciall order make proofe of the last Will & Testament of her sd. Husband before persons Comissioned to receive the same: And the sd. Elizabeth as whole & sole Executrix having given security for the performance of the particulars therein exprest, (according to the Law in such Cases provided) The originall Will & Testament remaining in the office of Records: These are to certify all whom it may concerne that ye. sd. Elizabeth Jessop is admitted to all intents & purposes as Executrix of the last Will & Testament of her sd. Husband, & hath full & lawfull power & Authority to doe & execute whatsoever in the sd. Will is required: Sealed with the Seale of the office; Dated at New Yorke the 19th day of Novemb. in the 18th yeare of his Majestyes Raigne, Annoq Domini 1666

                                                                                                                                M. Nichols, Secr

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from New York County Probate, Liber 1, p. 31-36.

 

 

Will of Daniel Johnson of Stockton, Chautauqua County, New York (1861) *

In the name of God Amen I Daniel Johnson of the town of Stockton in the County of Chautauqua and State of New York of the age of Seventy Six years and being of a sound mind and memory do make publish and declare this my last will and testament in manner following that is to Say

First I give and bequeath to my grand son Loren Johnson the Sum of one hundred dollars to be paid to the Said Loren Johnson within one year after my decease

Second I give and bequeath to my daughter Emily Wallis one cow To my two daughters Mariah Thompson & Emily Wallis all my household furniture to be equally divided between the said Mariah Thompson and Emily Wallis. And lastly I give and devise all the rest residue and remainder of my real and personal Estate of Every name and nature whatsoever to my four Sons and two daughters Viz. Titus Johnson Absalom Johnson Henry Johnson and Mark Johnson Emily Wallis Mariah Thompson to be Equally divided Equally between them, Share and Share alike. I hereby appoint Philip Lazelle Sole executor of this my last will and testament hereby revoking all former wills by me made. In witness Whereof I have hereunto Set my hand and Seal this thirtieth day of August in the year of our Lord one thousand Eight hundred and Sixty one

                                                                                                                                                Daniel Johnson                                (seal)

The above instrument consisting of one Sheet was at the date thereof declared to us by Daniel Johnson the testator therein mentioned to be his last will and testament, and he at the same time acknowledged to us and Each of us, that he had Signed and Sealed the Same, and we thereupon at his request and in his presence and in the presence of Each other Signed out names thereto as attesting witnesses

N. M. Shmick Stockton Chautauqua County

Nelson D. Johnson Stockton Chautauqua County

Recorded the foregoing last will & testament of Daniel Johnson decd, the 28th day of November 1861

 

Philip Lazelle was granted Letters Testamentary on the last Will and Testament of Daniel Johnson, late of Chautauqua County, on 28 Nov. 1861.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Chautauqua County Probate Wills Vol. 3, p. 227, from FHL microfilm #0588096, and Letters of Testamentary Vol. 3, p. 74, from FHL microfilm #0808953.

 

 

Will of James Johnson of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1799) *

In the name of God Amen. – I James Johnson of Bridgwater in the County of Plymouth Gentleman, being of sound disposing mind & memory thanks be to God for the same, do this Sixteenth day of October in the year of our Lord Seventeen Hundred & ninety nine, make, publish, pronounce and declare this my last will & testament, in manner, as followeth – vizt.

First. – I will that all my just debts, that I shall owe, at the time of my decease, Funeral charges &c. shall be paid by my Executor hereinafter named.

Item. – I Give & bequeath to my niece Betty Johnson, the daughter of my brother Isaiah Johnson, all my indoor moveables & household furniture (excepting one Feather Bed, Bedstead & Bed furniture) to her use and benefit forever. – I further give & bequeath to her the said Betty, the use & improvement of one third part of my dwelling house; also the right of the use & improvement of one Fifth part of my orchard & the keeping of a Cow, so long as she shall remain a single woman & no longer –

Item. – I give & bequeath to my brother Isaiah Johnson & to his wife Ruth, the use & improvement of two thirds of my dwelling house, for & during their natural lives & to the longest liver of either of them. and in case it shall so happen that my niece Betty Johnson shall marry or die in the life time of my said brother Isaiah or his wife Ruth, then my will is, and I give & bequeath the use & improvement of ye same third part of my dwelling house which I have herein before give to my niece the said Betty, to my brother Isaiah Johnson & his wife Ruth for and during their natural lives, or the longest liver of them.—

Item. – I give and bequeath to my brother Leavitt Johnson one Feather bed, bedstead & bed-furniture, to his use & benefit Forever; and my will is that my said brother Leavitt Johnson shall have his support & maintenance out of my estate, which maintenance I give & bequeath to him my said brother Leavitt, and to be done & performed by my Executor herein after named – and I do hereby ordain, constitute & appoint my Nephew James Johnson, son of my brother Isaiah Johnson, to be Sole Executor of this my last will & testament, and I order & direct him the said James my said Executor that, out of the estate herein after willed to him for that purpose, to pay all my just debts, Funeral charges, &c. and to support & maintain my brother Leavitt Johnson, providing for him, house room with suitable meat, drink, apparell & all other necessaries for his comfort in sickness & health, For & during his natural life; and I Further order & direct the said James my said Executor to keep at his expence & on the land which I shall herein after will to him, one Cow, for the sole use & benefit of my niece Betty Johnson, the daughter of my brother Isaiah Johnson, and the same to be kept through the year, and each & every year, so long as she shall remain a single woman, and no longer, and shall be as well kept as store Cows usually are, the providing such Cow at her own expence. – and I give devise & bequeath to my Nephew James Johnson, my said Executor, his heirs & assigns Forever, my homestead farm whereon I now live, together with all my other out lands, and all my other Estate, whether personal, real or mixed, of what name or nature soever, not herein before willed & disposed of, he paying & performing every matter and thing herein before willed, ordered and directed in this my last will and testament, and I do hereby revoke, disallow and render null and void all other and former wills, ratifying and confirming this and this only, as and for my last will and testament.~

In witness whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and seal the day and year first above written.~

Signed Sealed, Published, Pronoun-

ced & declared by ye sd. James Johnson                                                                         James Johnson                                 (seal)

the testator as & for his last will and

testament in ye. presence of us, who by

his request, & in ye. presence of each

other have hereunto subscribed our

names as witnesses. ~

        Cabin Keith

        Eliphalet Washburn

          Danl Snow –

 

Presented for probate on 5 May 1800 by James Johnson, the Executor therein named, and proved by Eliphalet Washburn and Daniel Snow, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Administration of the estate was granted to James Johnson, the Executor before named.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 37, p. 230-231, from FHL microfilm #0550719.

 

 

Will of Joseph Johnson of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1792) *

  In the name of God Amen – I Joseph Johnson of Bridgwater in the county of Plymouth, in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts Housewright, being of a sound, disposing mind & memory, do proceed to make this my last will testament, in manner & form following, first recommending my soul to God who gave it, humbly trusting in him thro’ Jesus Christ for pardon grace & glory, I Give, devise & bequeath to my son Alfred and to my son Joseph, all my Lands & buildings Lying and being in Bridgwater aforesaid & in sharon in the county of Suffolk, containing about eighty nine acres in the whole, to be equally divided betwixt them, to have and to hold, to them, their heirs & assigns forever, they to come into possession of the same (except their mother’s right of dower therein) when they arrive to the age of twenty one years respectively, provided however, and upon condition, that they the said Alfred & Joseph shall pay to my three other sons, namely, Calvin Daniel & Martin, the sum of thirty pounds of Lawful silver money to each of them, on their arrival to the age of twenty one years respectively, and in case that either the said Calvin, Daniel or Martin should not Live to be twenty one years of age, the said Alfred & Joseph shall pay the sum of fifteen pounds of Lawful silver money, to be equally divided, betwixt their two surviving brothers, in Lieu of the thirty pounds to be by them paid to such deceased brother if he had lived to be twenty one years of age. I also give & bequeath to my son Joseph, my desk to have & to hold forever.

        I Give & bequeath to my Daughter Susanna the wife of Isaac Alger six shillings, which with what I have heretofore given her is her full share of my estate

   I Give & bequeath to my Daughter Vestra the sum of fifteen pounds of Lawful silver money to be paid by my Executors within twelve months next after my decease

        I Give & bequeath to my two other Daughters, namely – Bethiah & Peggy the sum of ten pounds of Lawful silver money, to each of them to be paid by my executors, when they the said Bethiah & Peggy shall arrive to the age of eighteen years, respectively, or on the day of their marriage, at which ever first shall happen – and my will is that my sister Patience Johnson shall continue to reside in my family so long as it shall be agreable to her & to my Executors, and for the full performance and execution of this my Last will & testament in all and every part & thing, I do hereby ordain, constitute & appoint my beloved wife Bethiah Johnson, and Nathaniel Perkins of said Bridgwater, Housewright, to be my Executors of this my Last will & testament, whom I hereby order & direct to pay & satisfy out of the money which shall be due to me on the note & otherwise at my decease, all my just debts, Funeral charges, Legacies & bequests by me in this will made, and to give me a decent christian burial,– I Give & bequeath to my son Alfred one third part of all my Quick Stock & farming utensills, he to come into possession of the same when he arrives to the age of twenty one years. – I also give & bequeath to my son Joseph one third part of all my quick stock & farming utensills he to come into possession thereof when he arrives to the age of twenty one years, and my will is, that the use & profits of all my Lands and buildings, quick stock & Farming utensills (except my wife’s right of Dower therein) shall be applied towards the support & education of such of my children as are not of age & discretion to support themselves, untill the said Alfred & Joseph come into possession of the same as aforesaid. – and after the payment of all my just debts, Funeral charges, Legacies & bequests, by me in this will made, my will is, that the use & profits of all debts due to me on Interest or otherwise, and all my houshold Furniture & indoor moveables shall be applied towards the support & education of such of my children as are not of age & discretion to support themselves, at the discretion of my said Executors. – I Give & bequeath to my two oldest sons, namely Alfred & Joseph all my Carpenters & shop tools to have & to hold Forever. – and in case it shall so happen that my sister Patience Johnson aforesaid shall not make it convenient to continue in my Family, but shall remove therefrom, my will is, that my Executors shall in consideration of her services heretofore done & performed for me, pay her the sum of five pounds of Lawful silver money on her removal as aforesaid and if either of my two oldest sons namely Alfred & Joseph shall die before they arrive to the age of twenty one years, my will is; that the survivor shall have one half of all the Lands & buildings & Personal Estate in this my Last will & testament, devised & bequeathed to him that shall die as aforesaid, and the other hall shall be equally divided betwixt my three youngest sons, namely Calvin, Daniel & Martin, to have & to hold Forever. – the said real estate shall however be held for the payment of its proportion of the ninety pounds Lawful money to the said Calvin, Daniel & Martin, as mentioned in the former part of this my Last will & testament, and all the rest & residue of my estate, of what name or nature soever not otherwise disposed of in this my Last will & testament, I Give, devise & bequeath to my three youngest Daughters namely Vestia, Bethiah & Peggy, to have & to hold Forever.–In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand & seal the twenty third day of May Anno Domini 1792

Signed, Sealed, Published, pronounced

& declared by the said Joseph Johnson                                                                           Joseph Johnson                                (seal)

to be his Last will & testament, in

presence of

                                Joseph Alger

                                Lewis Johnson

                                Daniel Howard

 

Presented for probate on 6 Aug. 1792 by Bethiah Johnson and Nathaniel Perkins, the Executors therein named, and proved by Joseph Alger and Danl. Howard, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Bethiah Johnson and Nathaniel Perkins.

 

Daniel Howard Esqr., Barnabas Dunbar, yeoman, and Jos. Alger, yeoman, all of Bridgewater, were appointed to appraise the estate of Joseph Johnson, late of Bridgewater, Housewright, on 6 Aug. 1792. The Inventory of the estate of Joseph Johnson, late of Bridgewater, dated 8 Aug. 1792, totaled £858.0.3, including his real estate valued at £565.1.8, and obligations for money on interest amounting to £184.2.6. Nathl Perkins, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 3 Aug. 1795.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 33, p. 134-136, from FHL microfilm #0550717, and Vol. 35, p. 298-299.

 

 

Will of Josiah Johnson of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1809) *

        In the Name of God amen December 15th. 1809  I Josiah Johnson of Bridgwater in the County of Plymouth & Commonwealth of Massachusetts Yeoman, being far advanced in Age but of sound disposing Mind & Memory calling to mind the Frailty of human nature do make & ordain this my last Will & Testament, principally & first of all I give & recommend my Soul to God who gave it, & my Body to the Earth to be buried in a Christian Burial at the Discretion of my Executors & touching my worldly Estate I do dispose of the same in the Manner following –

        First my Executors to pay all my honest debts which now are but small –

        Imprimis I give & bequeath unto Azubah Johnson my true & well beloved Wife all my indoor Moveables & Quick Stock & the Improvement of one half my Dwelling house & all the Lands, I bought of Thomas Phillips deceased & the Improvement of my other House I have near Benjm. Robinson’s & all the Lands I own in the east precinct of Bridgwater together with all the Interest that shall arise upon all the Notes or Money I had at Interest viz to be kept at Interest with Good Securities & the whole Interest arising after my decease, I give the whole to her for & during her natural Life also a Seat in my Pew in the Meeting house in sd. east parish during Life.—

        Item I give unto my Son Solomon Johnson his Wife & Children the Improvement of my House & all the Lands in Mendon I own, for & during my Son’s Life & if his Wife Cloe should live she to improve sd. House & Lands with her Children, so long as she remains his Widow – Then I give sd. House & Lands to my Son Solomon’s eldest Son living upon his Father’s decease & my Pew in Mendon Meeting-house—

        Item I give unto my Son Josiah Johnson the Improvement of one half my Dwelling House I bought of Thomas Phillips deceased & all the improved Lands with one half the woodlands I bought of said Phillips to improve after the decease of my beloved Wife for the Support of his Family & not to be taken from him & Family for any debts my Son has or may contract for & during my Son’s Life to improve – & if my Son’s Wife Olive should live longer than my Son She to improve one half the House & half the Lands I bought of Thos. Phillips so long as she remains his Widow Then I give to my Grandson Zebina Johnson the House & all the Lands I bought of Asel Allen and Thomas Phillips forever (excepting my Grandchildren Polly Johnson & Sarah Johnson shall have a right to live in their Brother Zebina’s House while unmarried -and the other half my wood land not disposed of, but reserved above to be for Wood for the said Zebina & two Sisters Polly & Sarah —

        Item I give unto my Son Nathan Johnson after the decease of my beloved Wife the Improvement of my House & Lands lying near Benjn. Robinson’s towards the Support of him & Family for & during his natural Life & if his Wife Polly should live longer than my Son Nathan, she to improve said House & Lands so long as she remains his Widow. Then I give said House & Lands to my Son Nathan’s eldest Son then living, forever ~

        As to my Notes or Money after the Decease of my beloved wife, I give five hundred Dollars to my Son Nathan’s eldest Son then living with this reserve, The Interest upon five hundred Dollars – viz. Thirty Dollars pr. An. shall be towards the support of my Son Nathan & wife & Family, & if his Wife should live longer than my Son, for the Support of her & Children while she remains his Widow The Improvement of said House & Lands & Money not to be taken for any Debt my Son has or may contract but for the Benefit of the Family only —

        And what Money or Notes, if any above the five hundred Dollars given above I give to my Son Josiah Johnson’s Children, Polly, Sarah, Eunice Rhoda & Sidney after the decease of my beloved wife to be equally divided —

        My Pew in the meeting house to my sons Josiah & Nathan’s Children I give —

        And I appoint my Sons Josiah Johnson & Nathan Johnson my Executors jointly together.

        And I do hereby utterly disallow revoke & disannul all & every former Wills, Testaments, Legacies & Executors heretofore Ratifying & confirming this & no other to be my last Will & Testament –

        In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand the day & year above written —

        Signed sealed pronounced & declared in presence of him

                Jacob Hill

                Melza Hill

                Leonard Hill                                                                                                          Josiah Johnson                                 (seal)

 

Presented for probate on 3 Aug. 1812 by William Harris of Bridgwater, Gentleman, Josiah Johnson and Nathan Johnson the Executors therein named having refused said Trust, and proved by Jacob Hill and Melzar Hill, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to William Harris to faithfully execute the said will. 

 

To the Hon. Joshua Thomas Judge of Probate &c –

We the Subscribers being appointed executors to the Last Will & Testament of our Father Josiah Johnson deceased, do decline taking that trust upon us & unite in desiring your Honour to appoint Dean. William Harris Administrator with the Will annexed, of the Estate of the said deceased

                July 31st. 1812 ~                                                                                                  Josiah Johnson

                                                                                                                                                Nathan Johnson

  I do approve of William Harris to be appointed to settle the Estate of my late Husband Josiah Johnson deceased

                                                                                                                                                                her

                Bridgwater July 31st. 1812                                                                                Azubah  X  Johnson

                                                                                                                                                                Mark

 

Lot Whitmarsh, Gentleman, Benjamin Pincin and Oliver Pratt, Yeomen, of Bridgewater, were appointed to appraise the Estate of Josiah Johnson, late of Bridgwater, Yeoman, on 3 Aug. 1812. The Inventory of the Estate of Josiah Johnson, late of Bridgwater, dated Aug. 1812, totaled $2006.46, including his homestead farm with the buildings and land valued at $700, the house & land where Nathan Johnson’s family now lives valued at $200, and notes of hand on interest of $946.01. William Harris, the Administrator with the Will annexed, gave his oath to the inventory on 4 Jan. 1813.

 

Henry Sweeting Esqr., Samuel Fairbanks and Joseph Fox, Gentlemen, all of Mendon in the County of Worcester, were appointed to appraise the Estate of Josiah Johnson, late of Bridgwater, lying in Mendon in the County of Worcester, on 17 Sept. 1812. The Inventory of the Estate of Josiah Johnson, late of Bridgwater, lying in the Town of Mendon, dated 17 Sept. 1812, was valued at $825.00. William Harris, the Administrator with the Will annexed, gave his oath to the inventory in the County of Worcester on 4 Jan. 1813.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 44, pp. 281-282, 296, 444-445, from FHL microfilm #0550903.

 

 

Will of Nathaniel Johnson of Stafford, Tolland County, Connecticut (1855) *

        I Nathaniel Johnson of the Town of Stafford in the County of Tolland and State of Connecticut being of sound disposing mind and memory but weak in body. And feeling conscious of the uncertainty of life knowing that it is appointed unto all men once to die And being desirous in my life time to make desposition of that property which it hath pleased a kind providence to bestow upon me do make ordain and decla the following to be my last Will and Testament (To Wit),

        First of all I will order and direct that my funeral charges and Just debts be fully paid and satisfied.

        Second I give devise and bequath one undivided half of the rest and residue of my Estate that I may die possessed of bouth Real And personal unto my daughter Rebeca W Eaton of the town of Stafford afforesaid and wife of Samuel W Eaton to have and to hold the same to her and her heirs and assigns forever.

        Third I give devise and bequath one undivided half of all the Estate that I may die possesed of unto the Children and heirs of my son Nathaniel Johnson Junr of the town of Somers in said Tolland County to have and to hold the same to them and thire heirs and assigns forever

        Lastly I do ordain Constitute & Appoint Asa Willey of said Stafford to be my Sole Executor, In testimony whereof I have hereunto Subscribed my name at Stafford this Twenty Second day of January in the year of our Lord One Thousand Eight hundred and fifty / five

        Signed Sealed and published by the said Nathaniel Johnson as and for his last Will and Testament in the presence of Each and all of us who now Subscribe this Attestation in his presence as witnesses

                Aaron A Parsons

                David W Pratt                                                                                                      Nathaniel Johnson                          (seal)

                Asa Willey

 

Presented for probate by Asa Willey, Esq., on 4 July 1863, and proved by Asa Willey before Daniel F. Fairman, Judge of Probate. Julius Hyde, James M. Chaffee, and F. M. Eager were appointed to appraise the estate of Nathaniel Johnson, late of Stafford.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Nathaniel Johnson, late of Stafford, dated 6 July 1863, by signed by J. M. Chaffee and F. M. Eager, totaled $54.87, plus various notes against Polly Converse, Adam S. Eaton, and Jacob Leonard, and the estate had debts totaling $196.98. The distribution of his estate shows the children and heirs of Nathaniel Johnson Junr. as Francis W. Johnson, Clarisa E. Johnson, Wm? Johnson, and Wley? Johnson.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Town of Stafford Register of Probate Records Vol. 18, pp. 736-737, 739-742, from FHL microfilm #1320434.

 

 

Will of Ebenezer Jones of Alford, Berkshire County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1822) *

                In the name of God Amen –

I Ebenezer Jones of Alford in the County of Berkshire and commonwealth of Massachusetts considering the uncertainty of this mortal life and being of sound & perfect mind and memory, do make and publish this my last will and testament in manner and form following (that is to say) I give to my son Calvin one dollar. I give to my son Horace one dollar. I give to my son Atlass one dollar. I give to my son Andes one dollar – I give and bequeath to Susan the Eldest daughter of my daughter Thetis deceased one third of my house hold furniture. I give to the other children of my daughter Thetis deceased namely, Luna Eliza, Calvin and Atlass one dollar each. I also give and bequeath unto my daughter Luna one third of my household furniture and half of my other personal estate & the use of twenty one acres of land on the south end of my farm the condition on which she is to have the land will be described below. I give to my daughter Thisbe one dollar. I further give and devise to my daughter Sabra the remainder of my farm that I have not deeded to her heretofore – on the conditions that if Sabra or her heirs or assigns pay to Luna yearly Eighteen dollars in the months of November or December – then Sabra is to have the use of the land, but if Sabra fails of payments – the year following Luna is to have the use of the aforesaid twenty one acres or the aforesd payments during her life, but if Luna dies within ten years after my decease & the decease of my wife, then her daughter Hester M. Wilcox is to have the use of the said twenty one acres or the payments ten years after my decease & the decease of my wife–, but  if Hester M. Wilcox dies within ten years also – then Sabra is to have the aforesd twenty one acres without any further incumbrances – And I do Also give to my daughter Sabra the residue of my house hold furniture & personal estate, not heretofore disposed of   And I also give to Luna, the dwelling house in which Jabez Lawrence & Sabra his wife now life – with liberty for her to occupy it where it now stands for three years after my decease & the decease of my wife, then she may sell or remove it, as she may think proper.—

As to my Grandsons Belus Jones & Egbert Jones, sons of my son Heman Jones deceased I have given them their portions when they went to Illinois & shall give them no more – And lastly I give & bequeath to my beloved wife Susanna Jones the use and improvement of all my Real Estate ~ the use and disposal of my personal estate, so far as shall conduce to her necessities & comfort during her natural life (to which condition all the foregoing bequests are subjected) and whom I hereby appoint Sole Executrix of this my last will and testament~ But provided she should not survive me I hereby appoint my son Horace Jones my Executor hereby revoking all former wills by me made –

                In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand & seal the seventh day of October in the year of our Lord one thousand Eight hundred & twenty two

                                                                                                                                                Ebenezer Jones                                (seal)

Signed Sealed published & declared by the above named Ebenezer Jones to be his last will and testament in the presence of us who at his request and in his presence have hereunto subscribed our names as witnesses to the same.      Festus Letchfield – Eunice Litchfield   Norman Lester

 

Presented for probate on 3 Jan. 1826 by Susanna Jones of Alford, who listed his heirs as his widow Susanna Jones, Calvin Jones, aged 50 residing in North Carolina, Horace Jones of Livy, New York, aged 47, Atlass Jones of Tennessee, aged about 43, Andes Jones, now deceased, of South Carolina, Susan Orton, Luna Eliza, Calvin A., and Atlass Orton, children of her daughter Thetis, deceased, Luna Wilcox, wife of Oliver Wilcox, of New York City, aged 37, Thisbe Reeves, of Tennessee, aged 35, Sabra Lawrence, wife of Jabez D. Lawrence of Alford, aged 28, and Hester M. Wilcox, daughter of Luna Wilcox, of New York City. The will was proved by Eunice Litchfield and Norman Lester, two of the subscribing witnesses, and Daniel Barrett and Jabez D. Lawrence were sureties on the bond of Susanna Jones, of Alford, Executrix.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Berkshire County Probate Vol. 29, p. 27-29, from FHL microfilm #0876301.

 

 

Will of Martha Jones of Troy, Rensselaer County, New York (1847) *

Will ~

The last will and Testament of Martha Jones of the City of Troy made the 25th October 1847 ~

                                I, Martha Jones of the City of Troy do make and declare this my last will and testament in manner following, that is to say~

                I give the one half of what may remain due on a certain note I hold against my son in law Charles L. Richards and after paying & allowing his demand against me out of the same and all payments he has made thereon, and after paying out of the balance of said note all my just debts and funeral expenses including tomb stones and expenses of fencing the grave yard, to my son Calvin Jones now at sea, and the rest of said note or the half that remains after the deductions aforesaid, I give to my daughter Maria wife of the said Charles and to her two sons Alpheus and Horace Jones, to be divided between them share and share alike, the said Maria to have possess and hold her share to her sole and separate use, free from the debts or disposition of her husband. To the said Maria I give in like manner, aside to her sole and separate use, and free from the debts and disposition of her husband all my wearing apparel and personal ornaments, which if she chooses, and in such manner as she chooses she may divide among my family and friends, but I lay her under no obligation to do so, also my gold watch and gold spectacles, also one pair fine linen sheets pair fine linen pillow cases, and two napkins the large leathern trunk, one half of my linen, woollen, and cotton sheets, one large white quilt, my case of drawers the couch, two feather beds and pillows my high chair, six silver tea spoons, and four large silver spoons.

                To my son Calvin Jones aforesaid, I give two Matrasses, one feather bed, bedstead and cord, bolster and two pillows, four pair of linen sheets, two pair of cotton sheets, three pair of woollen sheets, two comforters, one rocking chair wash stand bowl and pitcher, one carpet, one bureau, six chairs, one looking glass my silver spectacles, six silver tea spoons, three large silver spoons, and two bed quilts, to my said son Calvin I give one half of my pillow cases, except those above given to Maria, and to him and Julia A. Fields wife of Doctor Fields, all my other pillow cases, and I give all my towels and napkins to my said son Calvin and my daughter Maria and Julia A. Fields, and to my son Calvin my large sick chair, and my sugar tongs to the said Julia.

To the said Julia I give one fringed white bed quilt, and to my said son Calvin I also give one mahogany work stand ~

                                As to the rest and remainder of my property I give & dispose of the same to my said daughter, in the same manner to the same extent, as the other property, is herein before given to her, except One Bible and prayer Book, which I give to my son Calvin, and I appoint Charles L. Richards my Executor of this my will.

In witness whereof I the said Martha Jones, the above named testatrix have to this instrument, signed my name, and declare the same to be my last will and testament this twenty sixth day of October in the year 1847 aforesaid~

                                                                                                                                                Martha Jones

The above instrument signed by the above           }

named testatrix, was declared by her after            }

she had signed the same to be her last will and     }

Testament, and in her presence and at her request }

we have subscribed our names as witnesses ~      }

                P. J. Simmons of the City of Troy.

                George Palmer of the City of Troy.

 

Proved by Peter J. Simmons of the City of Troy and George Palmer of the City of Troy on 28 Apr. 1848.

 

Charles L. Richards was granted Letters Testamentary on the last Will and Testament of Martha Jones, late of the City of Troy, on 28 Apr. 1848.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Rensselaer County Probate Wills Vol. 37, p. 357-359, from FHL microfilm #0550022, and Letters Testamentary Administration Vol. 39, p. 39, from FHL microfilm #0550023.

 

 

Will of Samuel Jones of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1842) *

In the name of God, Amen. I Samuel Jones of Bridgewater in the County of Plymouth and Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Cordwainer, being infirm in body, but of sane mind & memory, do make and publish this my last will and Testament in manner and form following viz.

1st. I give and bequeath unto my two sons, Lysander & Samuel Jones, all my Real Estate, being about thirty four acres of land, with the buildings thereon.

2d. I give and bequeath unto my two other sons, Freeman and Franklin Jones, each two hundred Dollars.

3d. I give and bequeath unto my Daughter, Betsey Holmes, Eighty Dollars.

4th. I give and bequeath unto my other Daughter Almira B. Jones, one hundred Dollars, also my best bed, all my bedding and linen, and all my glass and Crockery ware.

5th. I give and bequeath unto my four sons, above named, my wearing apparel, to be divided equally between them.

6th I give and bequeath unto my two Daughters above named, after paying my just Debts and funeral charges, the remainder of my personal property, to be equally divided between them.

And I do constitute and appoint Cyrus Benson of said Town to be my sole Executor of this my last Will and Testament, in testimony whereof I do hereunto set my hand and seal, this ninth day of July, one thousand eight hundred and forty two

                                                                                                                                                Samuel Jones                    (seal)

Signed, sealed published and declared by the above named Samuel Jones to be his last will and Testament in presence of us, who have hereunto set our names as Witnesses, in the presence of the Testator

                                                                                                                                                Abigail Wing

                                                                                                                                                Cyrus Benson jur

                                                                                                                                                Joseph B. Wing

 

Presented for probate on the second Monday of August, 1842, by Cyrus Benson, the Executor therein named, and proved by Cyrus Benson junior and Joseph B. Wing, two of the witnesses.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 84, p. 384-385, from FHL microfilm #0555267.

 

 

Will of Abia Keith of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Massachusetts Bay (1780) *

In the Name of God Amen—I Abia Keith of Bridgwater in the county of Plymouth in the State of Massachusetts Bay in New England yeoman Do this twenty fourth day of November Anno Domini 1780 make this my Last will and testament in manner and form following—In the first place I commend my Soul into the hands of God who Gave it, trusting in his mercy through Jesus Christ, for pardon Grace & Glory hereafter, and as to my worldly Estate I Give Devise & bequeath it in the following manner – my will is that all my Debts and Funeral Charges be paid in convenient time after my decease by my Executors hereafter named

Item—I Give Devise and bequeath unto Mary my well beloved wife all my Indoor moveables (Excepting my Gun, Desk, a Feather Bed, Bedstead and furniture belonging thereto) also my two negro boys, named Nero & Tobias, also two Cows, to her the said Mary forever—I further Give, Devise & bequeath to my said wife Mary the use Occupation & improvement of one third part of my dwelling house in which I Live, and one third of the Other buildings appurtenant thereto also the improvement of one third of all my Real Estate as Long as she continues my widow in full Satisfaction of her Dower in my Estate

Item—I Give and bequeath to my son Asa Keith all my Lands on the East side of the Road Leading to Boston (on Salisbury plane with the buildings thereon and appurtenances thereto belonging I also Give Demise & bequeath to the said Asa three acres of Land on the west side of the aforesaid Road, with the Barn thereon, where the Orchard and Barn now is, also four Acres of wood Land on the westerly of the west wall on my homestead farm adjoining to Nathan Keith’s Land at that place, also six acres more within the aforesaid wall Lying adjoining to the aforesaid four acres, with Liberty to pass and Repass to and from the said two Last mentioned Lotts of Land where it will be most beneficial and Least prejudicial; to him & his heirs forever –I further Give him four acres of meadow at the south end of my meadow on Salisbury River with Liberty to pass & Repass thereto

Item—I Give Devise and bequeath to my three daughters Mary Howard and Ann Keith and Kesia Keith all my Lot of wood Land Lying adjoining to Silas Dunbar’s homestead to be equally divided between them according to Quantity and Quality, to them & their Heirs forever

Item—I Give Devise and bequeath to my daughter Bathsheba Bass Fifty Spanish milled Dollars to be paid her by my Executors herein after named within twelve months next after my decease

Item—I further Give to my daughter Kesia one Cow at my decease also the improvement of one half of the north Room below Stairs in my dwelling house, the use of part of the Kitchin, fire place buttery and Cellar – & the priviledge of a Seat in my Pew in the meeting house so Long time as she shall continue sole & unmarried

Item—I Give Devise and bequeath to my daughter Ann Keith a feather Bed, Bedstead & furniture, belonging thereto, also one Cow, to her and her heirs forever – I further Give to the said Ann the use and improvement of the Other half part of the north Room aforesaid also a Seat in my Pew in the meeting house, also the free use of part of the Kitchin, fire Cellar & Buttery so Long as she shall continue unmarried, I further Give unto my said daughter Ann my Silver watch to her & her heirs forever

Item—I Give Devise and bequeath to my Son Shepherd Keith all the Rest and Residue of my Estate both Real, personal & mixed of what name or kind soever, saving Excepting & Reserving all such matters & things as herein is before saved, Excepted and Reserved, And my Will is and I further order that all my Debts Legacies and funeral Charges shall be paid by my Son Shepherd

        and I Do hereby nominate and appoint my Son Shepherd Keith, Adam Howard and Amos Keith to be Executors of this my Last Will and testament—In witness whereof I have hereunto Sett my hand and Seal the day and year aforesaid

Signed, Sealed, published, pronounced

and declared by the said Abia to be                                                                                 Abia Keith                                          (seal)

his Last will & Testament in presence

of us

        Abijah Thayer

        Levi Keith

        O. Angier

 

Presented for probate on 1 Oct. 1781 by Shepherd Keith, one of the Executors therein named, and proved by Abijah Thayer and Levi Keith, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed, the other witness being Oakes Angier. Letters of Administration were granted to Shepherd Keith, Adam Howard and Amos Keith, the executors in sd will named.

 

Isaac Packard Gentleman, Abijah Thayer, and Daniel Hayward, yeomen, all of Bridgwater, were appointed to appraise the estate of Abia Keith, late of Bridgwater, on 1 Oct. 1781. The Inventory of the Estate of Abia Keith, late of Bridgwater, dated 20 Oct. 1781, totaled £1274.3, his real estate valued at £1034, including his homestead lands and buildings valued at £817. Shepherd Keith, one of the Executors, gave his oath to the inventory on 5 Nov. 1781.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 28, pp. 203-204, 225-226, from FHL microfilm #0550715.

 

 

Will of Amos Keith of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Massachusetts Bay (1778) *

In the name of God Amen, This twentieth day of April Annoque Domini one thousand Seven Hundred & seventy eight, I Amos Keith of Bridgwater in the County of Plymouth in the State of the Massachusetts Bay in New England Gentleman, being of perfect mind & memory & Calling to mind the mortality of my body do make and ordain this my Last will & testament

First – I would Recommend my Soul to God, and my body I bequeath to the Earth to be Interred in Decent Christian burial at the Discretion of my Executors hereafter to be named, expecting to Recieve the same again at the Resurrection of the Just by the mighty power of God, & as Touching the temporal Estate which God hath been pleased to bless me with in my natural Life, I Dispose of the same in manner & form following ~

First– my will is that my Just Debts, funeral Charges and the Charges of Settling my Estate shall be paid out of my Estate

Secondly – I Give & bequeath to my wife Sarah Keith & to her Heirs & assigns forever, my houshold furniture, Houshold Goods, Houshold utensills, excepting my Clock, Desk, Case of Bottles & one Chest, I Likewise Give to her & to heirs & assigns forever, my books, wearing Apparell, Cloth, woolen yarn, Linnen yarn, Sheeps wool, flax, Soap, half of my houshold provisions, half of my Cyder, half of my hay, half of the vegetable produce of my farm that shall be Growing upon said farm at the time of my decease, three of my best Cows, fifteen Sheep half of my Swine, Eighteen pounds in money and half of my money that is Remaining after the payment of my Just Debts, funeral Charges and Charges of Settling my Estate, and this Legacy of Eighteen pounds; I Likewise Give and bequeath to her the use & improvement of my Pew in the publick meeting in Middleborough in that part of said Middleborough which belongs to the Parish called Tittecut Parish during her natural Life – I Likewise Give to her the use of my clock, Desk, Case of Bottles & a Chest, before mentioned as also the use of my Horse, bridle & Saddle during her natural Life

Thirdly—I Give and bequeath to my kinsman Amos Keith junr. of Bridgwater aforesaid Son of my brother Ebenezer Keith & to his heirs and assigns forever, my husbandry Utensills & a Saw & my instruments of Armour, half of my Swine, half of my houshold provisions, half of my Cyder half of my hay, half of the vegetable produce of my farm that shall be Growing upon said farm at the time of my decease & my Cattle & Sheep which are not already disposed of in this my Last will & testament, and my money which is not already disposed of in this my Last will & testament, I Likewise Give & bequeath to my said kinsman Amos Keith junr. & to his heirs & assigns forever, my Pew in the publick meeting house in Middleborough before mentioned Reserving the use & improvement of said Pew for my wife Sarah Keith aforesaid during her natural Life– I Likewise Give & bequeath to my said kinsman Amos Keith junr, and to his heirs & assigns forever, my Clock, Desk, Case of Bottles and a Chest, before mentioned and my horse bridle & Saddle, Reserving the use of them for my wife Sarah Keith aforesaid during her natural Life—and I Constitute and ordain William Fobes of Bridgwater aforesaid, and Edmund Hall of Raynham my sole Executors of this my Last will & testament, and I Do hereby utterly disallow, Revoke and disannul all other former testaments, wills, Legacies, Bequeathments and Executors by me before made, willed, bequeathed and named, Ratifying & Confirming this and no other to be my Last will and Testament

In witness thereof I have hereunto Set my hand and affixed my Seal the Day, month and year before mentioned

Signed, Sealed, published, pronounced

and declared to be the Last will and                                                                                Amos Keith                                         (seal)

testament of Amos Keith in the pre-

sence of us the subscribers

                Eliab Fobes

                Gershom Richmond

                Benjamin Webb

 

Presented for probate on 7 Oct. 1782 by William Fobes and Edmund Hall, the Executors therein named, and proved by Gershom Richmond and Benjamin Webb, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed, Eliab Fobes being since deceased. Letters of Administration were granted to William Fobes and Edmund Hall, the before named Executors.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 28, p. 474-476, from FHL microfilm #0550715.

 

 

Will of Arza Keith of North Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1847) *

                Be it remembered that I Arza Keith of North Bridgewater in the County of Plymouth, Yeoman, on this tenth day of June eighteen hundred forty seven, do make & establish my last Will and Testament as follows.

                 I give to my wife, Marcia Keith, the use and improvement of all my real estate during her natural life; and after her decease I give one third part of my real estate to my son Albert Keith his heirs and assigns and one other third part of my real estate to my son Arza Benjn. Keith, his heirs and assigns. I give to my daughter Marcia K. one sixth part of my real estate, to her & her heirs & assigns, and the other sixth part of my real estate I give to my daughter Harmony P. to her & her heirs & assigns.

                All the rest residue & remainder of my estate I give to my wife, to her and her heirs and assigns forever. And I appoint her Executrix of this Will.

                Provided however if the estate herein given to my wife should be insufficient for her support, I hereby authorize and empower her to sell & convey any part or all of my real estate & to appropriate so much of the proceeds as she may need for her support, and the remainder to be divided among my children in the above proportions.

                In testimony whereof I hereunto set my hand & seal the day and year above written.

                                                                                                                                                Arza Keith                          (seal)

                Signed, sealed, published & declared by the above named Arza Keith, as his last Will and Testament, in presence of us, who in his presence & in presence of each other, subscribe as witnesses.

                                                                                                                                                Jesse Perkins

                                                                                                                                                Caroline B. Perkins

                                                                                                                                                Mary P. Hewins

 

Presented for probate on the fourth Monday of Dec. 1864 by Marcia Keith, of North Bridgewater, the Executrix therein named.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 105, p. 126, from FHL microfilm #0555647, and Vol. 114, p. 350 (345).

 

 

Will of Benjamin Keith of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1800) *

In the Name of God Amen.—I Benjamin Keith of Bridgwater in the County of Plymouth, yeoman, being of sound, disposing mind & memory thanks be to God for the same, do this eighth day of March in the year of our Lord Eighteen Hundred, make publish, pronounce & declare this my last will & testament in manner as followeth—Vizt.

Impms—All my just debts, funeral charges & such legacies as are herein after given or bequeathed shall be paid by my Executors herein after named.—

Item.— I Give & bequeath to my wife Abigail, one third part of all my indoor moveables & houshold furniture & one Cow to her use & benefit forever; and, I further give & bequeath to my wife Abigail, the use & improvement of one third part of all my real estate including the use & improvement of one third part of all the buildings for and during her natural life

        Item— I Give and bequeath to my daughter Bethiah, the wife of Caleb Bassett, one third part of all my indoor moveables & houshold furniture, one Cow and Sixty Dollars to be paid & delivered to her by my Executors hereafter named, to her use & benefit forever, this together with what I have heretofore given her, I consider to be her full share of my estate ~

        Item.— I Give & bequeath to my daughter Eunice, the wife of Ebenezer Leach ye 2d- one third part of all my indoor moveables & houshold furniture, one Cow & Sixty Dollars, to be paid & delivered to her by my Executors herein after named, to her use & benefit forever, this together with what I have heretofore given her, I consider to be her full share of my estate. ~

        Item.— I Give, devise & bequeath to my son, Benjamin Keith junr. his heirs & assigns forever, the land whereon his dwelling house now stands, and all the land in front of his dwelling house that is between said house & the high way, containing by estimation about one quarter part of an acre, be the same, more or less—

        Item.— I Give, devise & bequeath to my son Marshall Keith, his heirs and assigns forever, my dwelling house wherein I now live, together with the land whereon said house stands, and all the land in front of said house, between the house & the high way, containing by estimation about ten rods more or less—

        Item— I Give & bequeath to my two sons Benjamin & Marshall, all my wearing apparell, to be equally divided between them— And I do hereby ordain, constitute & appoint my two sons Benja Keith junr & Marshall Keith to be joint Executors of this my last will & testament.

        Item— I Give, devise & bequeath to them my two sons Benjamin Keith jr & Marshall Keith, their several & respective heirs & assigns forever, to be equally divided between them, all the remaining part of my homestead farm whereon I now live, containing by estimation, about one hundred acres, more or less, together, with all the rest and residue of my estate, both real personal & mixed, of what name or nature soever not herein before particularly disposed of and all to be equally divided between them, they paying all my debts & funeral charges, and all the legacies herein before willed & given, in equal half parts between them.—And I do hereby revoke, disannul and render void & of none effect, all other & former wills, ratifying & confirming this and this only as & for my last will & testament. In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand & seal the day & year first above written —

Signed, Sealed, Published Pronoun-

ced & declared by ye sd Benja Keith the                                                                          Benjamin Keith                                 (seal)

testator as & for his last will & testa-

ment in ye presence of us, who by his re-

quest & in his presence, as we in the

presence of each other have hereunto

subscribed our names as witnesses

                James Alger ye 3d

                Barachias Wate

                Daniel Snow

 

Presented for probate on 9 Nov. 1801 by Benja Keith & Marshall Keith, ye Executors therein named, and proved by Jas Alger ye 3d & Danl Snow, two of the witnesses.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 37, p. 506-508, from FHL microfilm #0550719.

 

 

Will of Eleazer Keith of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1802) *

In the Name of God amen I Eleazer Keith of Bridgwater in the County of Plymouth & Commonwealth of Massachusetts Yeoman considering the Uncertainty of human Life & being of sound Mind & Memory, do make & publish this my last Will & Testament in Manner and form following – viz —

        First I give & bequeath to my beloved Wife Susanna all the Household Furniture, she brought with her, soon after our Marriage, I also order that ten Dollars be paid her annually by my three Sons Martin Silvanus & George, in addition to what was stipulated by a Covenant previous to our Marriage during her Widowhood —

        2dly. I give & bequeath to my two Sons Eleazer & John a Lot of Land I bought of Simeon Brett lying in the second share so called containing about 5 Acres & 60 Rods –

        3dly. I give & bequeath to my Son Timothy forty Dollars. —

        4thly. I give & bequeath to each of my three Daughters Betty, Huldah & Silvia & their Heirs forty Dollars & and one sixth part of my household Furniture not given to my Wife & Sons —

        5th. I give and bequeath to each of my two Daughters Celia & Susanna their Heirs one Dollar & one sixth part of my household Furniture not give to my Wife & Sons —

        6th. I give & bequeath to the Heirs of my Daughter Lucy Copeland deceased forty Dollars & one sixth part of household Furniture not given to my Wife & Sons —

        7thly. I give & bequeath to my three Sons Martin Silvanus & George my wearing apparel, Desk & Clock & all my other Estate not hereby or otherwise legally disposed of, they paying my just debts Legacies Funeral Charges & the Sum of thirty Dollars, twenty Dollars of which was promised by Covenant previous to Marriage & ten Dollars ordered by this Will & Testament annually to my Wife Susanna so long as she may remain my widow—  If either of them have any Trade or Occupation for which they may serve an Apprenticeship before they arrive to the Age of twenty one years, then the others that have not to be paid each two hundred Dollars, & the remainder to be equally divided between them, & if either of these three Sons should die before they arrive to the Age of twenty one years it is my will that the Estate bequeathed should be divided among my surviving Sons & if any dispute should arise among my Heirs & Widow about the Estate the same shall be decided by three judicious & disinterested Freeholders of the Town of Bridgwater, one to be chose by each of the contending parties & one to be mutually chosen by them, & if they cannot agree then the two persons chosen by them to choose the third person & if they cannot agree then the Selectman in the East precinct of Bridgwater shall be the person & their award shall be decisive – I also hereby appoint my son Eleazer Keith to be sole Executor of this my last Will & Testament – In Witness whereof, I have hereunto set my hand & seal this eighteenth day of December Anno Domini one Thousand eight hundred & two: Mm those words “and their Heirs” in two places & the words “about the Estate” with some others were interlined before signing —

Signed, sealed published & declared by the above

named Eleazer Keith to be his last Will & Testa-

ment in presence of us, who have hereunto

subscribed our Names as Witnesses in the

presence of the Testator —                                                                                                Eleazer Keith                                    (seal)

        Eleazer Whitman

        Nathan Alden junr.

        Eleazer Whitman junr.

 

Presented for probate on 21 Feb. 1809 by Eleazer Keith, the Executor therein named, and proved by Nathan Alden junr. and Eleazer Whitman junr, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Eleazer Keith, the before named Executor.

 

Nathan Alden junr., James Barrel of Bridgwater and James Bates of Abington, Gentlemen, were appointed to appraise the Estate of Eleazer Keith, late of Bridgwater, Yeoman, on 21 Feb. 1809. The Inventory of the Estate of Eleazer Keith, late of Bridgwater, dated 12 Feb. 1810, totaled $3354.33, including his real estate valued at $2166.18, and $794 in Notes of Hand. Eleazer Keith, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 3 Apr. 1810.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 42, p. 470-471, from FHL microfilm #0550902, and Vol. 43, p. 163-164.

 

 

Will of Elizabeth Keith of Bridgewater, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1757) *

In the Name of God Amen the Twentyfirst day of Febry, in the year of our Lord one thousand Seven Hundred & fifty Seven I Elizabeth Keith of Bridgwater in the County of Plimouth & province of the Massachusetts bay in New England Spinster being very weak in body but of Perfect mind & Memory thanks be Given to God therefore calling to minde the Mortality of my body & knowing it is appointed for all men once to dye, do Make & Ordain this my Last Will & Testament,-  That is to say Principally & first of all I Give & recommend my soul into the hands of God that Gave it, & my body I recommend to the earth to be decently buried at the discretion of my Execr. hereafter named, Nothing doubting but at the Generall resurrection I shall receive the same again by the mighty Power of God, & as Touching such worldly Estate wherewith it hath Pleased God to bless me in this Life I Give demise and dispose of the same in the following manner & form that is to say ~

Imprs. I Give and Bequeath unto my three beloved sons Viz, Joseph Keith, Eleazer Keith & Ephriam Keith five Shilling apeice, & to each of my sd. three sons I also Give One Ninth part of what shall remain at my decease of the Twenty nine pounds Ninteen Shillings & four pence Secured to me by two Promessery notes under the hand of Mr. Ephriam Fobes for Lands I lately sold him ~

  Item, I Give and Bequeath unto my six Beloved Daughters viz, Anna Alden the wife of Ebenr. Alden, Jemina Packard, the wife of James Packard, Abigail Haward, the wife of Robt. Haward, Martha Southworth the wife of Constant Southworth, Mary Kingman the wife of Jonathan Kingman, & Elizabeth Lathrop the wife of Samuell Lathrop Junr. the whole of my Personall Estate, excepting my Brass Kittle which I hereby Give to my aforesaid Daughter Martha Southworth, & excepting what I have also demised to my aforesaid three sons viz, Joseph, Eleazer, & Ephriam, to be Equally divided between them ~

Further it is my Will that my Just debts be Paid & my funerall charges defrayed, by my nine Children viz, Joseph, Eleazer, Ephriam, Anna, Jemima Abigail, Martha, Mary & Elizabeth, in equall Parts, ~

And I do hereby Constitute make & Ordain My son in Law Constant Southworth my sole Execr. of this My last will & Testament; and I do hereby utterly dissalow, revoke & dissanull all & every other former Testamt, Wills Legacies & Bequests & Execrs. by me in any ways before named Willed & Bequeathed, ratifying & Confirming this & no Other to be My Last Will & Testament, In Witness whereof I have hereunto Sett my hand & Seal the day & Year first before written ~

Signed Sealed Published Pronounced & Declared by the                                                            her

said Elizabeth Keith as her last Will & Testamt.                                                           Elizabeth  +  Keith                              (seal)

In the Presence of us the Subscribers                                                                                               marke

John Porter

Zachariah Cary

Consider Pratt

 

Presented for probate on 3 Apr. 1758 by the Execr. therein named, and proved by John Porter and Consider Pratt, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to her Son in Law Constant Southworth, the sole Execr, on 3 Apr. 1758.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 14, p. 522-523, from FHL microfilm #0551542.

 

 

Will of Rev. James Keith of Bridgewater, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1718) *

I James Keith minister of the Town of Bridgwater in the County of Plymouth in New England being through Gods Goodness Intire in my understanding & memory but expecting my departure & relying in the Mercy of God in Christ for Eternal Life do make my Last Will & Testament with respect to my outward Estate in Manner & form as followeth.—

Imprimis I appoint my executors mentioned in this my Will to receive all that may appear to be due to me, and to pay all my Just debts & to discharge my funerall Expenses.

Besides what I have already given to my Children I do further Give & bequeath to my five sons James Keith Joseph Keith Samuel Keith, Timothy Keith John Keith & my two daughters Margeret Hunt & Mary Hayward the produce of my Home-living housing & Land, Consisting of Two & Twenty acres be it more or Less when sd housing & Lands are sold, And I do appoint my executors, or such as they shall Impower to make sale of sd housing & Lands in time Convenient & the produce thereof to be Equally divided among my Five Sons & Two daughters above mentioned to them their heirs & Assignes—.  I Give & bequeath to my son James Keith my best Saddle & bridle my brown Cloak, my boots, my best hatt & best Shirt to him his heirs or assignes—

All the rest of my wearing Apparrell I Give to my four sons Joseph Keith Samuel Keith Timothy Keith John Keith to be Equally divided among them, to their heirs or Assignes—

I Give to my son Josiah Keith Ten pounds to be paid to him his heirs or assignes by my Executors Or Such as they shall appoint. All the rest of my Estate which Shall be left at my decease excepting that which is due by Contract to my Loving wife Mary & what else I am now possest of I may have Ocation to dispose of before my departure I Leave to my five Sons James Keith Joseph Keith Samuel Keith Timothy Keith John Keith and my two daughters Margeret Hunt & Mary Hayward to be Equally divided among them to them their heirs or assignes—

I do Appoint my two sons James Keith & Joseph Keith to be joynt Executors of this my Will which declare to be my last Will & Testament this Thirtieth day of July In the year of our Lord one Thousand Seven hundred & Eighteen & in the fourth year of the Reign of Our Gratious Soveraign King George.                            James Keith          (seal)

Signed Sealed & declared to be his Last Will & Testament In the presence of us—

Edward Fobes,   Ephraim Fobes   Benjamin Fobes

 

August the 26th. 1719. The above named Edward Fobes Ephraim Fobes & Benjamin Fobes made Oath that they saw the abovewritten Mr. James Keith signe seal & heard him declare ye abovewritten Instrument to be his Last Will & Testament, and that at the Same time according their best Observation he was of a Sound disposing mind & memory.  Taken Before me

                                                                                                                                                                                                                Isaac Winslow Judge of probates

 

The inventory of the movable estate of Mr. James Keith Minister of the Town of Bridgwater in the County of Plymouth in New England who deceased July the Twenty second Annoge. Dom. 1719…was taken on 25 Aug. 1719 by John Field, Isaac Johnson & John Ames jur.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 4, p. 184-185, from FHL microfilm #0550510.

 

 

Will of Lieut. Joseph Keith of Bridgewater, Province of Massachusetts Bay (1730) *

In the Name of God Amen. The twenty Second day of September in ye Year of our Lord – 1730 – Lieut. Joseph Keith of Bridgewater in ye. County of Plymo in New-England being very sick & weak in Body, but of perfect Mind and Memory Thanks be to God; therefore calling to Mind ye Mortality of my Body and knowing that it is appointed for All Men once to dy do Make and Ordain this my last Will & Testament Principally & first of all I Give & Recommend my Soul into ye hands of God that gave it, Hoping through ye Merits Death & Passion of my Saviour Jesus Christ to have full & free Pardon & Forgiveness of all my Sins & to Inherit everlasting Life~

And my Body I Commit to the Earth to be decently buried at ye Discretion of my Executr. hereafter Named, Hoping that at the General Resurrection to recieve ye. same again by ye Mighty Power of God – And as touching Such Worldly Estate wherewith it hath pleased God to bless me in this Life I Give Demise & Dispose of ye Same as followeth: First I Will that all those Debts & Duties as I owe to any Person be well & truly paid in convenient time after my Decease by my Executr. hereafter Named –

Item. I Give & Bequeath unto Elizabeth my Wel-beloved Wife all my personal Estate as Cattel Houshold Goods & Moveables within Door & without to Her and at Her Dispose, Excepting those Particulars of them which I shall herein Give to my Son Ichabod, Also I Give unto Her one half of my Building & one third Part of ye. Income of my Homestead during ye. time of her Widow hood –

Itm I Give to my Eldest Son Joseph Keith to him his Heirs & assigns forever a Portion in Lands which are particularly Described Set forth & Confirmed by Deeds under my hand & seal.

Itm I Give to my second Son Eliezer Keith a Portion in Land described & confirmed to him his Heirs & assings by Deed under my hand & seal ~

Itm I Give unto my third Son, Ephraim Keith to him his Heirs & assigns forever (Besides what I have already Expended for his Learning) My Right in Several Divisions & Pieces of Land in ye town of Easton described as followeth, a Fifty acre Lot lying on the Westerly Side of Ebenezer Drakes Land, Two Acres & a half lying on the North West Corner of sd. Drakes Land, Thirty five acres & a half lying near Dorchester Line. Also about Six Acres at ye. Northerly End of Jussicky: Meadow, Swamp.

Itm I Give unto my fourth Son Ichabod Keith (whom I Constitute ye. Sole Execxutr. of this my last Will) To him his Heirs & assigns forever All my Homestead & all my other Lands & Rights in Land within the Township of sd. Bridgewater (Not other ways disposed of) Also my Right in ye Saw Mill, a two Year old Colt, A Yoke of oxen, Cart & Wheels, Chains, Plows, A Saddle, Sythes, Axes & Hoes ~

Itm I Give to my Daughter Anna Alden to Her, her Heirs & Assigns forever One Sixth Part of a fifty acre Lot of Land in Easton lying joyning to my Son Eliezer Keiths House Lot –

Itm I Give to my Daughter Jemima Packard to her, her Heirs & assigns forever One Sixth Part of the sd. fifty Acre Lot last Mentioned –

Itm I Give to my Daughter Abigail Haward to Her, her Heirs & assigns forever One Sixth Part of ye. sd. fifty Acre Lot. –

Itm I also Give to my Daughter Martha Keith her Heirs & assigns forever A Sixt Part of sd. Lot.

Itm I Give to my Daughter Mary Keith her Heirs & assigns forever a Sixt Part of sd. Lot

Itm I Give to my Daughter Elizabeth Keith her Heirs & Assigns forever a Sixth Part of ye sd. Lot – And I do hereby Ratify & Confirm this & no Other to be my last Will & Testament In Witness whereof I have hereunto Set my hand & Seal ye. Day & Year Abovewritten—

Signed Sealed Published Pronounced & Declared

by ye. sd Joseph Keith as his last Will and                                                                      Joseph Keith                                      (seal)

Testament the Presence of us ye. Subscribers

Samuel Keith

Timothy Keith

John Keith

 

Proved by Samuel Keith and Timothy Keith on 2 Nov. 1730, and by John Keith on 5 Mar. 1730/31. Letters of Administration were granted to Ichabod Keith, the Sole Executor, on 8 Mar. 1730[/31].

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Lieut. Joseph Keith of Bridgewater, not dated, was appraised by John Kingman, Joseph Snell, and John Burr, and totaled £1339.0.0, his house, barn and forty acres of land adjoyning valued at £600.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 6, p. 5-8, from FHL microfilm #0550512.

 

 

Will of Levi Keith of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1809) *

In the Name of God amen I Levi Keith of Bridgwater in the County of Plymouth Commonwealth of Massachusetts Yeoman do this twenty first day of November in the year of our Lord one Thousand eight hundred & nine make and ordain this my last will & Testament in Manner & form following that is to say

        I give & bequeath unto my dearly beloved Wife Jemima Keith the Use & Improvement of one third part of all my Real Estate during natural Life & also one Cow & all my Household Furniture forever —

        I give & bequeath to my Son Levi Keith one Dollar & my wearing Apparel which together with what I have already given, is his full proportion of my Estate –

        I give & bequeath to my Daughter Jemima Widow of William Field the Sum of one Dollar to be paid in one year after my decease —

        I give and bequeath to my Daughter Molly the Wife of Ichabod Howard, the Sum of one Dollar to be paid in one Year after my Decease —

        I give & bequeath to my Daughter Anna Keith the Sum of one hundred and fifty Dollars, to be paid in Household Furniture if wanted by her, but otherwise paid in Money by my Executor out of the Estate which I shall herein bequeath to him within one Year after my decease: – my will is that While she continues in an unmarried State that she has the Improvement of the East Room in my House with the Chamber over it with so much of the Kitchen, oven, Cellar, Well & Buttery as is needful for her own use with the privilege to pass & repass, the Improvement of half of the Garden adjoining my House & a Seat in my Pew below in the Meeting house —

        I give & bequeath unto my three Grandchildren (the Children of my Daughter Bethiah Reynolds deceased) as follows viz to Luther Reynolds ten Dollars to Nathaniel Reynolds one Dollar & to Zilpha wife of Joshua Howard one Dollar, all to be paid in one Year after my Decease –

        I give & bequeath to my Grandson Ziba Keith my Dwelling house & other Buildings (excepting the privilege to my Daughter Anna as before described) with the Land adjoining including a Meadow Lot I bought of Thomas Thomson, to the said Ziba & his Heirs & Assigns forever–

        I give & bequeath to my Son Benjamin Keith all the Rest & Residue of my Estate of what name or nature not otherwise herein disposed of to have & to hold to him the said Benjamin his Heirs & assigns forever, he paying all my just debts & funeral charges & all the Legacies & Bequests, herein given as aforesaid, and I do hereby ordain constitute & appoint the said Benjamin Keith sole Executor of this my last will & Testament –

In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand & Seal the day & Year abovesaid. —

Signed, sealed published & pronounced & declared by the said

Levi Keith to be his last Will & Testament in presence of us who

subscribed as Witnesses at his request & in his presence & in presence of each other –

                Josiah Perkins                                                                                                       Levi Keith                                             (seal)

                Shephard Perkins

                Nahum Perkins

 

Presented for probate on 6 Dec. 1813 by Benjamin Keith, the Executor therein named, and proved by Josiah Perkins and Shephard Perkins, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Benjamin Keith, the before named Executor.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 45, p. 169-170, from FHL microfilm #0550903.

 

 

Will of Louis Keith of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1835) *

        In the name of God Amen I Louis Keith of Bridgewater in the County of Plymouth and State of Massachusetts considering the uncertainty of life, and being of sound and perfect mind and memory, make and ordain and publish this my last will and testament, as follows, Viz.

        I give and bequeath to my Son Jonathan C. Keith all my notes of hand, and also all my obligations and Securities for money and also all my part of the property that has or may fall to me out of the estates of Sumner Keith and Ichabod Keith (my sons) deceased.

        I give and bequeath unto Jonathan C. Keith my son and to Clarissa Pratt and to Lois Scott my daughters all my household furniture and clothing, to be divided equally between them.

        In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this sixteenth day of July in the year (1835) one thousand eight hundred and thirty five.

                                                                                                                                                Louis Keith                                         (seal)

                Signed, sealed published and

declared by the above Louis Keith to

be his last Will and Testament in

presence of us.

                Seth Washburn

                William Pratt Junr.

                Holden W. Keith

 

Presented for probate on the first Tuesday of Aug. 1847 by Jonathan C. Keith, a legatee therein named, and proved by Seth Washburn and Holden W. Keith, two of the witnesses.

 

Seth Washburn, of Bridgewater, was granted administration with will annexed of the estate of Louis Keith, late of Bridgewater, no person having been named as Executor therein, on 3 Aug. 1847, with Holden W. Keith and Daniel L. Howard, both of Bridgewater, as sureties.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 89, p. 295, from FHL microfilm #0555639, and Vol. 10A, p. 557.

 

 

Will of Robert Keith of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1787) *

In the name of God Amen—This twenty fourth day of May Anno Domini one thousand seven hundred eighty seven, I Robert Keith of Bridgwater in the county of Plymouth in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts Bay in New England, Yeoman, now being of perfect mind & memory, & mindful of the mortality of my body, do make & ordain this my last will & testament, and I would recommend my soul to the mercy of God who gave it & my body I bequeath to the earth to be interred in decent christian burial at the discretion of my Executor of this my last will & testament hereafter to be named, hoping to recieve the same again by ye. almighty power of God at the resurrection of the just, thro’ the mediatorial mercy of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the temporal estate which God hath been pleased to favour me with in this my natural life, I dispose of in manner & form following

 1 – I Give & bequeath to my wife Hannah Keith & to her heirs & assigns forever a Riding Chair, with its furniture & all the other moveable or personal estate now in my possession which she brought into my possession at ye time of my marriage with her having procured my Son Robert Keith to give her a lease of one half of the dwelling house in which I now dwell vizt. the east half of it & one half of the cellar under said dwelling house, during her natural life, after my decease, which is according to an agreement I made with her before my marriage with her, and having likewise procured my said Son Robert Keith to engage by an Obligatory bond to give her thirty five bushells of good merchantable Indian Corn, yearly or every year after my decease, while she shall remain widow, I likewise give to her & her heirs & assigns forever all the houshold provisions, tallow, tallow candles, soap, cloathing, excepting apparell worn by myself, one half of the linnen yarn, one half of the flax belonging to me at the time of my decease, I likewise do give to her & to her heirs & assigns forever, one Cow instead of a Cow which she brought into my possession at the time of my marriage with her & one Hog, if any one shall belong to me at the time of my decease, and one half of the Bed linnen & one half of the table linnen that have been made by us since we were married together. I likewise do give her the sole use of a Cupboard, a pair of Iron dogs or andirons, a meat tub & barrell & a soap tub after my decease while she shall remain my widow. I likewise do give her the use of a seat in a Pew in the Publick meeting House in the south Precinct of Bridgwater at the usual time of publick worship & exercises after my decease while she shall remain my widow, one half of the said Pew being my property

 2d – I Give & bequeath to my Son Asa Keith & to his heirs & assigns forever one half of my Island called Marvell’s Island situated in the Pond called Nipnickett Pond in the town of Bridgwater, as also my right in a Pew in the lower part of the publick meeting house in the south Precinct of Bridgwater, reserving the use of a seat in the same, as aforesaid, for my wife Hannah Keith, after my decease, while she shall remain my widow, one half of said Pew being my property. I likewise do give him and his heirs & assigns, my pair of Silver shoe buckles, & my pair of Silver knee buckles, my great coat & one half of the rest of my apparall worn by myself my Saddle, my harnesses, & my Draught Chain, one tierse Cask, one barrell Cask, and one dry Hogshead Cask

 3d. I Give & bequeath to my son Robert Keith & to his heirs and assigns forever, one half of my Island situated in the Pond called Nipnicket Pond in the town of Bridgwater, as also my right that is in a Pew in the upper part of the Publick meeting house in the south Precinct of Bridgwater, my right in said Pew being one quarter of the same, and I likewise do give to him & his heirs & assigns forever, that part of my apparell of my own wearing not already disposed of in this my last will & testament as also my great bible & my Cupboard, reserving the use of said bible & Cupboard for my wife Hannah Keith, after my decease, while she shall remain my widow, and I do order him to procure Pasturage & Fodder sufficient for the support of one Cow for my wife Hannah Keith, after my decease while she shall remain my widow, and I likewise order him to procure for my Daughter Constant Leach the wife of Nehemiah Leach Household Goods to the value of Forty shillings, or to pay her money to the amount of Forty shillings at or before the expiration of two years after my decease, and I lay another injunction upon him vizt. that he shall pay the charges of my burial & of the Settlement of my Estate at the Probate office, and these three Injunctions are to be performed at his own expence

 4 – I Give and bequeath to my Daughter Constant Leach the wife of Nehemiah Leach my looking glass & a pair of worsted combs & a Loom for Cloth weaving & to her heirs & assigns forever

 5.  My Personal, or moveable Estate not already disposed of in this my last will & testament, I Give & bequeath to my four Daughters Phebe Leach the wife of Jedediah Leach & Hassadiah Leach, the wife of James Leach, Tabitha Caswell the wife of Jonathan Caswell & Constant Leach, the wife of Nehemiah Leach to be equally divided among them, reserving the use of a Pair of Iron dogs or andirons, a meat tub & barrell & a soap tub for my wife Hannah Keith, after my decease, while she shall remain my widow

 6.  I do constitute & ordain my Son Robert Keith to be the Executor of this my last will and testament, and I do utterly disallow & revoke all former wills, testaments, bequeathments, Legacies & Executors by me before made, willed and bequeathed and appointed and ordained, ratifying and confirming this and no other to be my last will and testament, and in witness of the same I have here Set my hand and affixed my Seal to this my last will and testament, this twenty fourth day of May Anno Domini one thousand Seven Hundred & Eighty Seven

Signed, Sealed and declared by the

said Robert Keith, to be his last will                                                                                                 Robert Keith                      (seal)

& testament in the presence of us

                Joseph Cowing

                William Leach jr

                Benjamin Webb

 

Presented for probate on 1 Aug. 1796 by Robert Keith, the Executor therein named, and proved by Joseph Cowing, one of the witnesses, the other witnesses William Leach junr. and Benjamin Webb being both deceased.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 35, p. 539-541, from FHL microfilm #0550718.

 

 

Will of Ruth Keith of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1837) *

In the name of God Amen I Ruth Keith of Bridgewater in the County of Plymouth Commonwealth of Massachusetts singlewoman considering the uncertainty of this mortal life and being of sound mind and memory blessed be Almighty God for the same do make and publish this my last will & Testament in the manner and form following (that is to say. After my just Debts and funeral charges and the expense of settling my estate if first paid. First I give and bequeath to my sister Keziah Keith all the property that I may be seized of for her use and benefit.

Lastly my will is and I do hereby appoint Cornelius Holmes jur. Executor to this my last will & Testament.

In Witness whereof I hereunto set my hand and seal the seventh day of June in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred thirty seven

                                                                                                                                Ruth Keith her  X  Mark                    (seal)

Signed sealed and published & declared by the before named

Ruth Keith to be her last Will & Testament in the presence of us who have hereunto subscribed our names.

                                                                                                                                Cornelius Holmes jur

                                                                                                                                Cornelius Holmes 3d.

                                                                                                                                Gaius Holmes

 

Presented for probate on the first Tuesday of April 1841 by Cornelius Holmes, the Executor therein named, and proved by Cornelius Holmes 3d and Gaius Holmes, two of the witnesses.

 

Letters Testamentary were granted to Cornelius Holmes jur, the Executor therein named, on 6 Apr.

1841, with Cornelius Holmes 3d and Gaius Holmes, all of Bridgewater, as sureties.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 83, p. 92, from FHL microfilm #0555267, and Vol. 1G, p. 156-157.

 

 

Will of Sarah Keith of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Massachusetts Bay (1782) *

In the Name of God Amen.—This Ninth day of October Anno Domini. One thousand Seven Hundred & eighty two. I Sarah Keith of Bridgwater in the County of Plymouth, in the State of the Massachusetts Bay widow of Lieut. Amos Keith late of ye town county & state aforesaid being of perfect mind & memory, and being mindful of the mortality of my body, do make this my last will & testament & would now recommend my Soul to the mercy of God who gave it  & my body I bequeath to the earth to be interred in decent christian burial, at the discretion of the Executor of this my last will & testament hereafter to be named in the same, hoping to recieve the same body again by the almighty power of God at the resurrection of the just thro’ the mediatorial mercy of our exalted redeemer the Lord Jesus Christ & the temporal estate which God hath been pleased to favour me with in this my natural life, I would dispose of in the following manner.~

First.—I order that all my just debts, my necessary burial charges & the necessary charges of settling my estate shall be paid with money to be raised out of my estate by the Executor of this my last will & testament.

2dly.—I Give & bequeath to my Sister Mrs Silence Richmond, the wife of Mr. Stephen Richmond of Taunton, my gold necklace to be possessed & enjoyed by her, as her own property absolutely.

3dly.—I Give & bequeath to my three Sisters Mrs Bethiah Robinson the wife of Mr. Josiah Robinson of Raynham, & to Mrs Hannah Keith the wife of Mr. Robert Keith of Bridgwater, & to Mrs Silence Richmond the wife of Mr. Stephen Richmond of Taunton aforesaid, the remaining part of my personal estate, to be equally divided among them, to be possessed & enjoyed by them, as their own properties absolutely, after my just debts, my necessary burial charges & the necessary charges for settling my estate shall be paid as aforesaid & the necklace aforesaid shall be given to my said Sister Silence Richmond

4thly.—I constitute Mr. William Fobes of Bridgwater aforesaid to be the Executor of this my last will & testament, and I do absolutely revoke and disannul all former wills & testaments, bequeathments, legacies and Executors by me before made, willed, bequeathed and appointed; ratifying & confirming this & no other to be my last will & testament.—Witness my hand & Seal this day of the date above mentioned.~~

Signed, Sealed & Declared                                                                                                                Sarah Keith       (seal)

by Said Sarah Keith to be her

last will & testament in

presence of us –

                Luther Hooper

                Solomon Keith

                Solomon Shaw

 

Presented for probate on 6 Oct. 1800 by Avery Fobes of Bridgwater, yeoman, and proved by Luther Hooper & Solomon Keith, two of the witnesses, William Fobes, the Executor in the said will named being deceased.

 

Walter Hayward & Seth Wilbore, yeomen, & Daniel Crane, Gentm., all of Bridgwater, were appointed to appraise the estate of Sarah Keith, late of Bridgwater, widow, on 6 Oct. 1800. The Inventory of all the Personal Estate of Sarah Keith, late of Bridgwater, widow, not dated, totaled $260.68, including 3 cows & 12 sheep. Avery Fobes, the administrator with will annexed, gave his oath to the inventory on 5 Oct. 1801, and submitted his accounting of the estate, which showed legacies paid to Stephen Richmond, Bethiah Robinson, and Hannah Keith.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 37, pp. 313-314, 500-501, from FHL microfilm #0550719.

 

 

Will and Codicil of Ephraim Kempton of Dartmouth, County of Bristol, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1749) *

In the Name of God Amen this Sixth Day of february AD: seventeen Hundred & forty Nine I Ephraim Kimpton of Dartmouth in ye: County of Bristol with in his Majesties Province of ye Massachusetts Bay in New England Yeoman being an Ancient Person but through ye Mercy & Goodness of God: in Good dayly Health & of a sound Desposeing Mind: do make & ordain this my Last will & Testament & as Touching Such Worldly Estate where with it hath Pleased God to bless me in this Life I Give devise & Despose of ye same in ye: following Manner & form (viz)

Imprimis I Give to Patience My beloved Wife ye use and Improvement of all my Personal Estate both in Door & out Except what I shall in this my will Perticularly other wise Despose of: Together with ye use and Improvment of ye Easterly part of my Now Dwelling House with Convenient Cellow Roome: all to be Improvd, by her During her widdowhood

Item I Give and bequeath To my Son Thomas Kimpton and to his Heirs and Assigns forever Two third parts of all my Homsted farm where I Now Dwell To be Taken off of ye: Northerly Side there of with all ye Houseing Standing there on: Said two third parts To be taken off from ye. other third part of said Homsted as here after Exprest (viz) To begin at ye: River Side and to Extend Westmost ye Middle of a Little Spring Swamp Lying on ye: west side of ye: Bach untill it Coms to ye. upland on ye: west side there of: from thence to Extend Northerly or Southerly as ocation may Require for ye: taking of said two third parts of said Homsted as a fore said: by an East & west Line: Together with all my Salt Marsh Lotts in that Calld, Clarks Neck & Scontient Neck: Together with all my undevided Right in Dartmouth a fore said: All which I Give To my said Son Thomas & to his Heirs &c: as above Exprest: he Performing and doing for his Mother my wife as here after Exprest (viz), To find for his said Mother Sufficient fire wood at ye doore of my now dwelling house at a Suteable Length fit for her fire: And to Provide Sufficient keeping Winter & Summer on said Homsted for her a Cow and Eight Sheep: And to Provide beef & Pork with Sufficient Sauce for ye: same: Indian Corn & Rye all Sufficient for her own use and ye: Entertaining a friend that Comes to Vissit her (at her Table) if She Shall See Cause And To be help full To his said Mother in Going to Meeting: And to be Equaly help full with his brother William in Transporting their Mother to Plymouth So often as She Shall Resonably want to Go: All ye. above said Perticulars Mentioned to be don & Performed by him yearly year by year & Every Year Winter & Summer Personally during ye: term She Remains my widdow

Item I Give & bequeath To my Son William Kimpton & to his Heirs and Assigns for ever all ye: Remaining part of my Homsted Not before in this my will other wise Desposed of: Together with my Great Iron Pot: And And Sword: Together with all my Tools bed & beding which he Now has of mine in his Possesion & Keeping all which I Give To my Said Son William and to his Heirs &c: as above Exprest he Performing for his Mother my Wife as here after Exprest (viz) To Provide for his said Mother Two bushels of Good winter Apples at such seson of ye: year as is Most Suteable for Gather in Apples for winter Store: and half barril of Cyder Six pound of Good Sugar Ten pound of Tallow five pound of Good flax three pound of Good Cotton well one bushel of Good wheat or one Quarter of a hundred of flower three Pecks of Good Malt one Gallon of Mollasses: and be Equally Helpfull in Transporting his said Mother To Plymouth so often as She Shall Resoneably want to Go: And To Pay & perform all ye. abovesd Perticulars Mentioned to be both Performed by ye: sd william for his Mother: & Perform ye. Same Sesoneably yearly year by year & Every year during ye. term She Remains my widdow all Deliverd. to her at my Now dwelling House

Item I Give and bequeath To my Daughter Joanna Drew one half of my forty Acre Lot of upland at said Clarks Neck to be devided from ye. River up westerly In Quantity & Quallity: all which I Give To my said Daughter & to her Heirs & assigns forever To be Desposed of for her use by & with ye. Advice of her brother William Kimpton above Named if Surviving when Such disposition is Made: I Likewise Give to my Said Daughter all that part of my Personal Estate which I Give my Said Wife ye, use & Improvment of To be Recd, by her after ye. decease or Marrag of my said wife in ye, Condition & so many of them as there shall then be Remaining—

Item I Give To my said son Thomas Kimpton all my Part of ye. tools & other Tackling Commonly used about Husbandry work which we have at home Together with my Great bible & my Gun

Item I Give to my Grandson William Kimpton my Large Silver buttens

Item I here by Constitute and Appoint My Well belovd, friends Mr Jonathan Hathaway Elder James Cushman & deacon Jireh Swift Over Seers to se & take Care that this my will with Respect to my said wife Is fully & Amply Performed

Item I Give and bequeath To my above Said Son Thomas Kimpton and To his Heirs & Assigns forever all ye: Remaining part of my forty Acre Lot in Clarks Neck Above Mentioned Not be fore in this my will other ways desposed of: Except my said wife in ye: Judgment of Said over Seers or Either Two of them: Shall Stand in Need of all or any part there of for her Support during ye: time She Remains my widdow: And in that Case To be Set by my Executor here after Named for her use So far as is Necesaly (in ye; Judgment of Said overseers) Shall Require: And upon said Executor Neglecting or Refusing to Sell Said Land: (ye Efects of ye Sale whereof to be for my Said wife if Needed as afore said:) Then & in that Case I do hereby in this my will Give Give full Power and Athourity To said over seers or Either Two of them To Sell & Convey Said Land Last Mentioned and ye: Efects of ye Sale there of to be Improved for & towards ye: Support of my Said Wife or any part there of that She Shall Stand in Need of and ye: Remaining Part or overpluss if any there be after her decease or Widdow hood to Go to and be for ye use of my Said Son Thomas Above Named

Item my will is that all my Just debts & funeral Charges Should be paid by my Two Sons above Named (viz) Thoms & Willm out of that part of my Real Estate Above bequeathed To my said two Sons

Item I do here by Constitute Make and ordain my Said Son Thomas Kimpton my only and Sole Executor of this my Last will & testament & I do here by utterly Disallow Revoke & Disannul all & Every other or former Testament wills Legacies bequests & Executors by me in any ways before Named Willed & bequeathed Rattifying this and No other To be my Last will & Testament in witness where of I have hereunto Set my Hand & Seal ye; Day & year above written

Signd, Seald Published Pronouncd

by ye Said Ephraim Kimpton as

his Last Will and Testament,

In ye: Presence of us the                                                                                    

Subscribers (viz) ~~

Stephen West Jur

Samll West                                                                                                                            Ephraim Kempton                           (seal)

Stephen West

 

November 7th 1758 Proved

 

Be It Known To all Men by these Presents that Where as I Ephraim Kimpton of Dartmouth in ye County of Bristol with in his Majesties Province of ye. Massachusetts bay in New England Yeoman have Made and declaird, my Last Will and Testament in wrighting bearing Date ye: Sixth day of february one Thousand Seven Hundred and forty Nine I ye. said Ephraim Kimpton do by this Presents Codicil Confirm and Ratifie my Said Last Will and Testament and do Give and bequeath unto my daughter Joanna Drew (Above Named in my said Will) all that My Small Lot of wood Land in Plymouth in ye. County of Plymouth at that Calld, Billingtons Sea at as Place Calld, Small Gains, And my will and Meaning is that This Codicil or Schedule go and be adjudged To be a part and Parcel of my Said Last Will and Testament and That all things here iln Contained and Mentioned be faithfully & Truly Performed and as fully and Amply in Every Respect as if ye Same was So Declaired and Set Down in My Said Last Will and Testament in Witness Where of I have here unto Set my Hand and Seal This Ninteenth Day Day of March AD: one Thousand Seven Hundred and forty Nine

Signd Seald Publishd,

Pronouncd, and declaird by

ye. Said Ephraim Kempton as                                                                                           Ephraim Kemton                             (seal)

part of his Last will & testament

In Presents of us ye. Subscribers

[can’t read-page torn]

Stephen West jur

Stephen West

 

Proved by Stephen West and Stephen West Jur, two of the witnesses, on 7 Nov. 1758.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Ephraim Kempton, late of Dartmouth, was appraised by Abraham Sherman, Ebenezer Willis and Samll West on 2 Nov. 1758, but not totaled. Thomas Kempton, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 7 Nov. 1758.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Bristol County Probate File “Ephraim Kempton, Dartmouth, 1758,” from FHL microfilm, #0573219.

 

 

Will of Stephen Kempton of New Bedford, Bristol County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1807) *

Be it remembered that I Stephen Kempton of New Bedford in the County of Bristol; being weak in body, but of Sound and perfect mind and Memory considering the uncertainly of this Mortal life. And being sound in mind at present.&c. Blessed be God, for the same – do make and publish this my last Will & Testament. in manner and form following. (that is to say) first I give and bequeath unto my beloved wife Zilpah Kempton the Use and Improvement of my Homestead Farm with the Use of all the Building there on as long as she remains my Widow, and one bed & Furnature for the same. Together with all my indore moavables, exepting such as I shall Other wise dispose of. provided my said Widow should Marry again then in that case. the Use and Improvement to cease to her and to go immediately to those here after given to –

Item – I give and bequeath to my Yongest son Elijah Kempton the one half of my Homestead Farm. with the one half of all the buildings thereon to be Equally divided between him or his heirs and his Three Sisters or their heirs. on the decease of their Honrd. Mother. as above expressed. I also give to my said Son Elijah my Lot of Salt Marsh and the Fifteen Acre Lot up at Puranopit in Dartmout. which said Two last mentioned Lots my said son Elijah is to come into immediate possession of After my decease to enable him to make sale of. to pay all my Just debts and Funeral charges. Item I give and bequeath unto my Three Daughters. (Namely) Lydia Hathaway wife of Thomas Hathaway. Ruth Kempton & Deborah Kempton and there Legal Heirs. The Other one half of my Homestead farm with the one half of all the buildings thereon. to be Equally divided between each of them or there legal Heirs, at the decase of there Mother or as above in case of her Marrying again) I Also give to my Daughters. Ruth and Deborah each one a Feather Bed & Furnature suitable for the same. to be handed and delivered by my said widow to each of sd. Daughters immediately After my decease.

Item. I give and bequeath unto my Son Hananiah Kempton Fifty dollars. to be paid him by my son Elijah Kempton in case he my said son Hannaniah should live to return home at the decease of my said Widow, in case he should never return home. (my said son Elijah is to have the sole Benefit of~)

Item. I give and bequeath unto all and each of my Grand Children the Children of my son Asa Kempton. deceased, Five dollars – each. to be paid them by my said Son Elijah Kempton, as they shall respectively Arrive at the Age of Twenty one years. —

Item. I give and bequeath unto my said son Elijah Kempton, all my live Stock, excepting one Cow. which I now give to my dear wife (free and clear) I also give to my said son Elijah my Desk & all my wearing Apparel and my Farming Utentials of all kinds. with all the money on hand and all debts that may be due me at my decase.  Item I give all provisions on hand at my decease to my beloved wife – And lastly I give all the residue and remainder of all my Estate of every description. not heretofore allready given away. to my said Son Elijah Kempton & his heirs. And Assigns. – whom I hereby Appoint sole Executor of this my last Will and Testament; hereby revoking all former Wills by me made. – In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand & Seal. This Seventeenth day of January in the Year of our Lord, Eighteen Hundred and Seven –

Signed. Sealed. published & declared

by the said Stephen Kempton to be

his last Will and Testament. in the

presence of Us. Who att his request and

in his presence have here unto –

Subscribed our Names as Witnesses.

to the same –

Micah Hathaway                                                                                                                Stephen Kempton                             (seal)

Jonathan Kempton

Seth Spooner                                                                                                                        June 2d. 1807. Approvd –

 

Presented for probate on 2 June 1807 by Elijah Kempton, the Executor therein named, and proved by Micah Hathaway and Seth Spooner, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Elijah Kempton, of New Bedford, on 2 June 1807, with Seth Spooner Esq. and Micah Hathaway, yeoman, both of New Bedford, as sureties.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Bristol County Probate File “Stephen Kempton, New Bedford, 1807,” from FHL microfilm #0573219.

 

 

Will of Thomas Kempton of Dartmouth, County of Bristol, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1768) *

In the Name of God Amen I Thomas Kempton of Dartmo, in the County of Bristol & Province of the Massachusetts Bay in New-England ~~ Yeoman Being at this Time thro’ the Goodness of God of a sound Disposing mind & Memory, and knowing it is appointed for all once to Die more ~~ Especially Calling to mind mine own frailty & Mortallity do make & Ordain this to be my Last will & Testament. and first of all I Commit my Soul into the hands of God that gave it and my Body to Dust from whence it Came in hopes of a Joyfull Resurrection at Christ’s second appearing and as to those ~~ Transitory things with which it has Pleased God to Bless me in this Life I Dispose off in the following manner –

Imprimis I Give to my well-Beloved wife Phebe all the Household goods she Brought with her and also the Improvement of the Easterly Room & Bed Room in my Dwelling House with a Priviledge in the Sellar During the Time she Remains my Widdow also I give her one Cow to be her own together with Thirteen pounds Six Shillings and Eight pence to be paid to her by my Two Sons Thomas & Ephraim in one year & a half after my Decease to make good her Goods She Brought with her

Item I give & Bequeath to my Son Thomas & to his heirs & assigns forever one half of my Homestead farm said half to be on the Northerly side adjoining to Capt. Willis his homestead farm (Excepting one acre & half hereafter mentioned) Together with one half of my Salt meadow in Clerks neck also I give to my said son Thomas the one half of my out door moveables & my Great Bible he performing what I shall hereafter order him –

Item I give & Bequeath to my Son Ephraim & to his heirs & assigns forever the other half of my homested farm on the south side adjoining to William Kemptons Land~~ (Excepting one acre & half hereafter mentioned) with all the Buildings thereon and also the other half of my Salt meadow in Clarks neck Together with the other half of my out Door Moveables also I give him my Gun he performing what I shall hereafter order him –

Item I give & Bequeath to my Son David & to his heirs & assigns forever my Lot of Land in Clarks neck adjoining to Benja Butlers Land on the south side and on Benjamin Russells Land on the North side Together with all my salt marsh in Sconticut neck also three acres of Land out of my homestead farm Begining at the water side in Line Between my said sons Thomas & Ephraim & to Run seven Rods upon my said son thomas’s part & seven Rods upon my said son Ephraim’s part by the water side & from thence at seven Rods Distance from the aforesaid Line on Each side ~ thereof so far Westward as to Include the said three acres with the Priviledge of a Drift way from said three acres to the highway thro’ my said son Ephraim’s part also I give him the Priviledge of the fresh water on Each of my said sons Thomas’s and Ephraims part –

Item I Give to my son Jonathan Kempton five shillings to be paid by my Executor –

Item I Give to my Daughter Esther the wife of Benja Butler six pounds thirteen shillings & four pence to be paid by my son Thomas in one year & half after my Decease –

Item I give to my Daughter Mary six pounds thirteen shillings & four pence to be paid by my son Ephraim in one year & half after my Decease also I give her all my Indoor moveables and if she Remains unmarried I give her the Priviledge of Living in my house if she sees fit

Item I give to my said two sons Thomas & Ephraim all my Right I have in my Pew in the Meeting House Together with my Right to the undivided Land in the Township of Dartmo. also I give them all my wearing apparrel –

Item my will is that if either of my said sons Die without Issue that their part shall go to the Surviving Male heirs (viz) Thomas Ephraim or David so as to Exclude Jonathan

Item my will is that my Two sons Thomas & Ephraim shall Provide for their mother my wife yearly & every year During the Time she Remains my Widdow Eight Bushells of Indian Corn, Two Bushels of Rye, fifty pounds of Beef, fifty pounds of Pork, ten pounds of sheeps wool, ten pounds of Shugar, four Gallons of Molases, ten pounds of Flax, Twelve pounds of Tallow, Six pounds of hogs fat, and also a Priviledge in my orchard as she shall need also my will is that my son Ephraim Provide for her a horse to Ride to meeting & also to Ride to Little Compton to see her friends as occation & oppertunity shall Require and also that my Two sons Thomas & Ephraim find her keeping for a Cow yearly and a sufficiency of fire wood at the Door while she Remains my Widdow further my will is that what I have ordered my sons Thomas & Ephraim to find for their mother (Excepting the Riding to meeting & Little Compton) that one of them shall provide for her one year & the other another year –

Item my will is that if my said Daughter Mary By sickness or accident shall stand in need of support while she Remains unmarried that then in that Case my Tow sons Thomas & Ephraim shall provide for her as she shall need. also I give her my four silver spoons

Item my will is that my Two sons Thomas & Ephraim pay all my Just Debts & Funeral Charges Equally Between them –

Furthermore I make ordain Constitute & appoint my son Thomas Sole Executor of this my Last will Hereby Ratifying & Confirming this & this only to be my Last will & Testament In Testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and Seal this Sixth Day of January in the Eighth year of His Majestys Reign anno’ Domini 1768 –

Signed Sealed, Published pronounced & Declared by the said Thomas Kempton to be his Last will and Testament –

In Presence of us

   Ephraim Kempton                                                                                                           Thomas Kempton                             (seal)

   Manasseh Kempton

   John Gerrish

 

Proved by Ephraim Kempton and John Gerrish on 27 Feb. 1769.

 

To the Honble George Leonard Esqr Judge of the Probate of Wills &c for the County of Bristol, these may acquaint yr Honr, that I am fully Satisfied & Contented with the Disposition made with Respect to me, by my Honrd Husband, Thomas Kempton Late Deceased, in his Last Will & Testament, & do Accept of the Provision therein made for my support. –

Dartmo Febry        }

the 25th 1769        }                                                                                                              Phebe Kempton

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Bristol County Probate File “Thomas Kempton, Dartmouth, 1769” from FHL microfilm #0573219.

 

 

Will of Isaac King of Plympton, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1727) *

I Isaac King of Plimpton in the County of Plimouth being aged & knowing that it is appointed for all men once to dye & desireous to settle my outward Estate before I go home do make & ordain this my last Will & Testament in manner following Imprimis I give & Recomend my soul into the hands of God who gave it & my body to the Earth to be decently buried according to the discretion of my Executor hereafter named hoping for a Glorious Resurrection to life by the almighty power of God. And as to my temporall Estate wherewith God hath bless me in this life I dispose of the same as followeth Viz:

Imprimis I Give & Bequeath unto my kindsman Samuel Churchell his heirs & assignes forever all the tracts & parcells of upland meadow & Cedar Swamp hereafter Expressed Viz: a Certain tract of land lying and being in the Township of Plimpton aforesd bounded as followeth Viz: beginning at the Southwest corner bound of my thirty acre lot being a great Spruce tree marked Standing at or near the Rang of The lott at Cedar Swamp in turky Swamp & from thence Ranging East & by north by the Range of Sd thirty acre lot sixty four pole to the Southwest corner bound of the sd Thirty acre lott being a great white oak tree marked, & from thence on the same Range fourteen pole to a heap of stones on a hummuck by the westerly side of a cart way near the meadow & from thence southeast fourty eaght pole to a stake & stones by the meadow side & from thence due south fourty six pole to a small white oak marked with stones about it by the meadow side & from thence south & by west a quarter of a point westerly Eaight pole & a half to a stake & stones by the meadow side in the Range of the Land of William Bonney & from thence bounded by the land of William Bonney unto a pine tree marked which is the Southeast corner bounds of the lott at Ceder Swamp in Turky Swamp & from thence by the Range of Said lott of Ceder Swamp north & by East unto the great Spruce tree marked first mentioned. Also a peice or parcel of land in Plimpton aforesd bounded on the Southerly Side thereof by the land before mentioned from the Rhoad way which leadest to the meeting house unto the lotted Ceder Swamp in Turky Swamp & from thence the westerly side thereof is bounded by the Range of Sd lotted Ceder Swamp unto, & from thence the northerly side thereof Rangeth East north west ninety seven pole unto too small white oak trees marked growing out of one Root with stones layd about them by the west side of the aforesd Rhoad way & from thence the East side thereof is bounded by the aforesd way unto the peice of land before mentioned And also all that my parcel of meadow & Swamp ground lying and being on the westerly side of the Saw mill brook from the meadow of William Bonny up stream as far as my meddow & swamp ground there Extendeth. And also the one half of all my Rights & Shares of Ceder Swamp in the aforesd Turkey Swamp. And also the one half of my sixteen acres of land lying upon the Island in said Turkey Swamp.

Item I Give & Bequeath unto my kindsman Ebenezer Lobdell his heirs & assignes forever all that my farm or tenement whereon I now dwell in the Township of Plimton aforesd both upland meadows & Swamps which lyeth here adjoyning to gather & butteth upon the lands herein before given to Samuel Churchell Togather with my dwelling house Barn & out houses & fences upon Sd farm & all other profett[?] prevelege & appurtenances unto the same belonging. And also that one half of all my Rights & shares of Ceder Swamp lying in Turkey Swamp in Plimpton aforesd & also the one half of my Sixteen acres of land lying upon the Island in Sd Turkey Swamp

Lastly I do nominate & appoint my aforesd kinsman Ebenezer Lobdell to be sole Executor of this my last will & Testament hereby Revoaking all former Wills by me made Ratifiing & Confirming this & no other as my last Will & Testament. In Witness whereof I have hereunto sett my hand & Seal this twenty ninth day of December Anno Domini one thousand seven hundred & twenty seven 1727

Signed Sealed & Declared by the Sd

Isaac King to be his last will and

Testament In presence of us                                              Isaac   K   King

William Briant                                                                          his     mark

                her

Martha  X  Ransome

            marke

Thos: Croade

 

Probated on 19 Sept. 1728, and proved by William Bryant, Martha Ransome and Thomas Croad, the witnesses.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 5, p. 485-487, from FHL microfilm #0550511.

 

 

Will of Jonathan King of Plymouth, Plymouth County, Massachusetts Bay (1782) *

In the Name of God Amen – I Jonathan King of Plymouth, being Sick & weak of body, and apprehending that my Death is near at hand, but being of sound mind & memory, do make this my Last will & testament, and first of all, I commit my body to the earth from whence it was first taken & my Soul to God who Gave it Looking & hoping for eternal Life thro’ Jesus Christ my Lord & Saviour, and as touch what small worldly Estate I have, I do Give & bequeath the same both real & personal to my dear & Loving wife Deborah King to be wholly at her disposal—as to my Daughter Lydia Rickard & Abigail Fuller I have heretofore Given them their parts of portions; and my Daughter Mercy I trust will Live with her mother & partake of what I Leave her—as to my son Nathaniel I have heretofore Given him what he ought to have of my Estate and therefore now Give him mothing – my son Jonathan being many years absent I apprehend he is not Living at this time, but have heretofore Given him his portion–In witness whereof I have hereunto Set my hand & Seal the 27th day of February A D. 1782 — my will further is, that in Case my wife should not dispose of the whole of what I Leave, then that my Daughter Mercy should have what may remain

Signed Sealed & delivered by the above                                                                                        his

named Jonathan King & by him declared                                                                       Jonathan  X  King                                (seal)

to be his Last will & testament in presence                                                                                    mark

of us

                Thos. Mayhew

                Saml. Sherman

                Mary Cobb –

 

Presented for probate on 3 July 1782 by Mercy King of Plymouth, single woman, and proved by Samuel Sherman and Mary Cobb, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration cum testamento annexo were granted unto William Thomas, of Plymouth, Physician, no executor being named in the will.

 

The Inventory of the Goods & Estate of Mr. Jonathan King late of Plymouth, was appraised on 20 June 1788 by Saml. Sherman, Benja. Rider junr and Ephm. Spooner, and consisted only of a lot of wood land at a place called west ponds in Plymouth valued at £12. William Thomas, the administrator cum testamo. annexo on the estate of Jona. King, deceased, gave his oath to the inventory on 2 Nov. 1788, and he notified the court that the estate was insolvent and insufficient to pay all the debts which ye said deceased owed on 4 Nov. 1788.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 30, pp. 321-322, 474, from FHL microfilm #0550716.

 

 

Will of Joseph King of Plympton, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1730) *

Know all Men by these Presents that I Joseph King of the Town of Plimton in the County of Plymouth in the Province of the Massachusetts-Bay in New England Being at this present Time in Health & of Sound & Disposing Memory & understanding Blessed be God for it, Yet being sensible of my own Mortality & being desirous to Settle my outward Estate which God hath given me Do make & ordain this to be my last Will & Testament to remain firm & inviolable forever — Imprimis I Give & Bequeath unto my Son Isaac King besides the North East Part of my Homestead which I have already Given unto him by Deed of Gift I Give unto him more, The one half of my fourty two acres of Land which was laid to unto Me joining unto the South West End of the old fifty acre Lot of Land whereon I dwell & was laid out Octobr. 10:1705. Also I Give unto my sd Son Isaac my Gun & Sword; and also my Team & all [my?] Tools & Tackling both for Carpentary & Husbandry and my Great Bible & all my Wearing Cloathes —

Itm I Give & Bequeath unto my three Daughters Mehetabel Snow Anne King & Mercy Snow, & to my Grand Daughter Lydia Floure the South West Part of my Homestead Land Meadow & Swamp, and is bounded as followeth Beginning at a Spruce Stump which is the South East Corner Bound of the twenty acre Lot which was formerly laid out to Edward May and from thence ranging South thirty eight Degrees and a half Easterly unto a Stake & Stones Standing in the North West Side of Monponsett Meadow Brook & so on the Same Range cross sd Brook unto the Range of the South East Side of the Meadow & so Includeth all my Homestead Land meadow & Swamp, which lye there joyning together on the South West Side of the aforesaid Range: (Excepting the one half of my fourty two acres of sd Land which I have in this my last Will Given unto my Son Isaac; And also I Give unto my sd Three Daughters & Grand Daughter My now Dwelling house, All which aforesd. Lands Meadows & Swamp, & Dwelling House to be equally divided among ym all four —

Itm I Give & Bequeath unto my three Daughters & Grand Daughter before named All my moveable Estate whatsoever within Doors & without Doors and also all ye Debts due unto me (Excepting what I have Given thereof unto my Son Isaac as abovesd.) They Paying all my just Debts & Funeral Charges out of ye Same; The Same to be equally Divided amongst them all four (Excepting unto my Daughter Mehitabel Snow ye Sum of Twenty Pounds & unto my Daughter Mercy Snow the Sum of ten Pounds) less than their equal Proportion thereof they having already recieved so Much of my Estate; And my Will is that my Son In Law James Snow shall take into his Custody & Improvement all the Estate both real & personal that I have in this my last Will & Testament Given unto my Grand-Daughter Lydia Floure, And he to pay unto my sd Grand-Daughter Ten Shillings a Year for ye Use of the Same until She arrive to ye Age of Eighteen Years or Time of Marriage: And then he or his Heirs to Surrender unto her the real Estate; and also to Deliver unto her the abovesd. personal Estate or the value thereof: Always Provided and it is to be Understood that my Will is that if it should so happen that ye sd Lydia Floure should die before She arrive to the age of Eighteen Years & have no Heir lawfully begotten of her Body, then & in Such Case I Give & Bequeath all the Estate both real & personal that I had herein Given unto the sd Lydia Floure I Give the Same unto my aforesd. three Daughters Mehetabel Snow anne King & Mercy Snow, the Same to be equally divided amongst them; And my Will is that my loving Friend Deacon David Bozworth should be Executor of this my last Will & Testament to See that the Same be performed according to ye true Intent & Meaning thereof: Thus hoping that the same will be performed I Commit my Body to the Dust & my Soul to God that gave it: In Testimony whereof I the aforesd. Joseph King have hereunto Set my Hand & Seal this Second Day of September one thousand Seven hundred & thirty — 1730.               

Signed Sealed & Declared by the aforenamed                                                                                    his mark                                        

Joseph King to be his last Will & Testamt.                                                                                    Joseph  î  King                                     (seal)

In the Presence of us,  David Bozworth

John Corttes    Jacob Tomson

 

Proved on 8 Nov. 1736 by David Bozworth, John Corttes and Jacob Tomson, the witnesses, and Administration granted on 18 Nov. 1736 to Deacon David Bosworth, of Hallifax.

 

Mr. Jacob Tomson of Middleborough, Mr. Moses Cushman & Mr. Barnabas Tomson, both of Halifax, were appointed to appraise the estate of Joseph King, late of Plimton [sic], on 8 Nov. 1736. The Inventory of the Estate both real & personal of Mr. Joseph King, late of Halifax, dated 12 Nov. 1736, totaled £657.8.0, including his Homestead Land with Buildings & Fences valued at £600. David Bozworth, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 9 Dec. 1736.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 7, pp. 244-245, 252-253, from FHL microfilm #0550513.

 

 

Will of Capt. Abel Kingman of North Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1844) *

        Be it remembered that I Abel Kingman of North Bridgewater in the County of Plymouth do on this eighteenth day of January Eighteen hundred and forty four Make ordain and establish my last Will and Testament in manner and form as follows to wit – I give to my wife Fanny Kingman the use and improvement of all my part of the Dwelling house where we now reside (except the right and privilege therein which is herein after devised to my daughter Tempy) I also give to my wife one cow which she may choose out of my stock, I also give her the keeping of a cow out of my estate and the use of a horse & carriage so much as she may need also so much fire wood furnished at the door prepared for the fire as she may need to support such fire or fires as her comfort may require also so much meat & breadstuff & so much fruit from my trees & vegetables from my garden as may be needful for her also one seat in my pew on the centre aisle in the meeting house the foregoing provisions I make for her while she remains a widow. I also give her two hundred Dollars in money. I give my son Jabez Kingman one fifth part of apparel I give to my Daughter Marcia Keith one Dollar – I give to my daughter Tempy the use and improvement of so much of my house as she may need during her life, and also a privilege at the fire which I have made for my wife while they live together, I also give her twenty Dollars and the use of one seat in my pew on the South Aisle of the Meeting house during her life. – I give to my son Arnold the use of my pew on the South Aisle of the Meeting House during his life subject to the right of Tempy as above devised also I give him one fifth part of my apparel I give to my Daughter Harmony Packard one dollar – I give to my son Albert on fifth of apparel – I give to my son Abel W. one fifth of my apparel – I give to my daughter Mary Godfrey on Dollar. I give to my daughter Jane Bates one Dollar. I give to my daughter Lucy W. Ladd one Dollar. I give to my daughter Betsey M. Dunbar One Dollar – I give to my daughter Luthera Kingman Two hundred dollars, or if she marry to make her equal with the other sisters. –

I give to my Laura B. Kingman two hundred Dollars, or if she marry to make her equal to the other sisters – I also require my Executor to support her out of my Estate till she arrives to the age of twenty one years

        All the rest residue and remainder of my Estate both real and personal I give to my son Edwin H Kingman his heirs and assigns forever requiring him to pay all my just debts and the legacies herein before devised, and thereby constitute & appoint him the said Edwin sole Executor of this will.

        In witness whereof I hereunto I hereunto set my hand and seal the day and year first above written.–

                                                                                                                                                Abel Kingman                                   (seal)

Signed sealed, published, and declared by the said Abel Kingman as his last Will and Testament in presence of us who at his request and in his presence and in presence of each other subscribed our names as witnesses                                                                                             Jesse Perkins

                                                                                                                                                Frederic Perkins

                                                                                                                                                Elizabeth Perkins

 

Presented for probate on the third Monday of Feb. 1850 by Edwin H. Kingman, the Executor therein named, and proved by Jesse Perkins and Frederick Perkins, two of the witnesses.

 

 

Will of Abiel Kingman of North Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1854) *

        Know all men by these presents that I Abiel Kingman of North Bridgewater in the County of Plymouth, and Commonwealth of Massachusetts, yeoman, now being much enfeebled by ill health, Yet through the blessing of God, (for which he feels grateful) he judges himself to retain and have at his command a sound, reflecting mind and memory, And he doth hereby make and publish this as his last Will and Testament in manner following, to wit.

First.  I hereby constitute and appoint my daughter Elizabeth A. Washburn, wife of Elisha Washburn of North Bridgewater, sole Executrix of this my last Will

Second.  I hereby in consideration herein after named direct that my said Executrix, pay all my just debts, funeral expenses and legacies herein after named, and that she also pay a reasonable proportion of the expense of erecting a suitable monument to be placed in the Cemetery Ground owned by the subscriber in common with Ephraim Copeland, Elisha Washburn & the heirs of Lucas Kingman, and also she is required to pay a suitable proportion of the expense of a substantial fence to enclose their said lot.

Third.  I give and bequeath to my daughter Rebecca Kingman, widow of my late son Edmund Kingman, one undivided half of the homestead lot of land & half the buildings thereon, said lot being situated in North Bridgewater, bounds, beginning at the South West corner of the lot on the East side of the road leading by where I now reside; thence Easterly in the line of a wooden fence that makes the South line of my wood-yard and bark yard in a straight line extending Easterly, until it comes to a point in the range of the East line of Levi Simmons’ house lot; thence Northerly to the South East corner of said Simmons lot; thence Westerly in the South line of said Simmons lot to the said road, thence Southerly by the road to the corner first named.

Fourth.  I give to my Grandson, Edward K. Kingman one hundred dollars to be paid him by my said Executrix or her legal representative, when he arrives at the age of twenty one years, with annual interest thereon from and after six months from my decease.

Fifth.  I give to my grand-daughter Mary E. Kingman, twenty five dollars to be paid her when she arrives at the age of twenty one years, with annual interest thereon from and after six months from the day of my decease.

Sixth.  I give to my daughter Elizabeth, who I hereby have appointed Executrix of this Instrument, all my estate real and personal that I may die seized of, that is not otherwise herein disposed of subject to the foregoing debts, legacies & expenses & out lay for the Cemetery lot, that I hereby direct her to pay, and this bequest to my said daughter is made for her sole use and benefit vesting the absolute fee of the real in her and her legal heirs or assigns as also the personal giving her full power to sell and convey said real or personal, and to give a title to the same as though she was single and unmarried and that she have the full and absolute use and control of both, said real and personal or of the proceeds of any sales thereof.

                In testimony whereof I hereby set my hand and seal and publish and declare this to be my last Will and Testament, in the presence the Witnesses hereto subscribed below this thirteenth day of March, in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and fifty four.

                                                                                                                                                Abiel Kingman                  (seal)

        Signed, sealed, published and declared by the said Abiel Kingman as and for his last Will and Testament in presence of us who in his presence, and in the presence of each other, and at his request, have subscribed our names as witnesses thereunto, the day and year above written.

        Benj Kingman

        John W. Kingman

        Benjn Franklin Kingman

 

Presented for probate on the first Tuesday of April, 1854, by Elizabeth Washburn, the Executrix therein named, and proved by Benjamin Kingman and Benjamin F. Kingman, two of the witnesses.

 

Benjamin Kingman, of North Bridgewater, was granted administration with will annexed of the estate of Abiel Kingman, late of North Bridgewater, cordwainer, as requested by the heirs at law, on 4 Apr. 1854, with Elisha Washburn and Benjamin F. Kingman, both of North Bridgewater, as sureties.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 96, p. 104-106, from FHL microfilm #0555642, and Probate Docket #12121.

 

 

Will of Benjamin Kingman of North Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1868) *

Be it known by all whom it may concern that I, Benjamin Kingman of North Bridgewater in the County of Plymouth & Commonwealth of Massachusetts, do make and publish this my last Will and testament in manner and form as follows, to wit.

1st  I give my beloved wife Rebecca Kingman all my house-furniture, beds and bedding & wearing apparel.

I also give said Rebecca the use and improvement of my dwelling-house and garden, bounded South by Warren Howard’s house-lot and land owned by myself and R. P. Kingman; West by a Stone wall; North by Edward Southworth’s house-lot; East by Main Street reserving the use of the barn thereon, she my said wife to have the use of sd. house & lot during her natural life. I also give said Rebecca Eight thousand dollars ($8000.) to be vested for her by my Executor or paid her in money, for her sole use and at her disposal.

2d  I give my daughter Julia A. Southworth twenty five hundred dollars to be paid her by my Executor in one year from the day of my decease for her sole use.

3d  I give my son B. F. Kingman or his heirs & assigns, the sum of Eight thousand dollars ($8000) to be paid him or his representative, in one year from my decease.

4th  I give Abby Kingman wife of Rufus P. Kingman five hundred dollars to be paid her in one year from the day of my decease for her sole use.—

5th  I give Addie Kingman wife of B. F. Kingman, Five hundred dollars ($500) to be paid her by my Executor in one year from the day of my decease, for her sole use.

6th. I give Joseph R. Kingman son of B. F. Kingman his heirs or assigns the sum of two thousand dollars ($2000) to be vested at the discretion of, and by my Executor of this will, and the same to remain in his custody, until the fifteenth day of April in the year one thousand, Eight hundred and Eighty one, and then said sum with its accumulations, to be paid to him said Joseph, or his heirs.

7th  I give my brother Elbridge Kingman four hundred dollars ($400) to be paid him or his family in sixteen Semi-annual payments of twenty five dollars each with interest on the balance after one year from my decease, the first payment to be made in six months from the day of my decease.

8th  I give Abigail Collins now resident of New Bedford one hundred dollars ($100) to be paid her by my Executor for her sole use.

9th. I give Daniel Bradford Eames of No. Bridgewater one hundred dollars to be paid him by the Executor of my last Will and Testament.

10th I give to four of my Grand children, to wit: George Southworth, Etta Southworth, Frederic Southworth & Susan R. Kingman, Eight hundred dollars which sum I direct my Executor to Vest for their joint benefit at his discretion. I also give them about 40 acres of wood-land say one lot about 24½ acres in Abington called the Harris lot, & about 15½ acres in North Bridgewater, and known as the Elisha Eames lot, and I authorize my Executor to convert said woodland into money at his discretion, and Vest the same for the joint benefit of the last above named grand-children, and keep the same so invested until the fifteenth day of April in the year one thousand Eight hundred and Eighty one, and at that time the said legatees shall be entitled to receive from my Executor in equal shares what-ever sum the said legacys amounts to then. And provided any of them be taken away by death, and unmarried then the survivors take the whole in equal shares.

11th I hereby appropriate the sum of two thousand dollars ($2000) of my Estate to be expended in fitting up our Cemetery lot owned by myself & R. P. Kingman, the same to be expended by R. P. Kingman within a reasonable time.

12th I give my son Rufus P. Kingman all my Estate real and personal that I die seized of & not hereby disposed of before with this proviso to wit: that he shall fulfill the before named appropriations and pay all the legacies herein stipulated, and all debts and proper charges against my Estate, and that he said R. P. Kingman pay the tax on the house, so long as his mother improves the same.

13th I nominate and appoint my son Rufus P. Kingman of North Bridgewater the sole Executor of this my last will and testament. Hereby revoking all former wills by me made And whereas it may be found by memorandum on my ledger page 235, that I have before advanced my children 2700 dollars which sum is not to be considered in this distribution, and this distribution is made with the proviso, that none of my relatives who I have provided legacies for herein, shall present and claim any sum against my estate, of a date prior to the date of this instrument. But charges of a later date for advancements to any of the legatees named in this instrument and charged by me on my Book or evidenced by rect. or otherwise, shall be allowed in settlement of his or her legacy.

I wish also to provide that if by any event my son R. P. Kingman should be disqualified to act as Executor, that Henry K. Keith shall take upon him that trust.

                In testimony hereof I hereunto subscribe my name and affix my seal, and publish and declare this to be my last will and testament in presence of the Witnesses whose names are hereon below subscribed this Eleventh day of December in the year one thousand Eight hundred and sixty eight.

                                                                                                                                                Benj. Kingman                                  (seal)

The above instrument duly signed and sealed by Benjamin Kingman and by him published and declared to be his last Will and testament, in presence of us, who in his presence, and at his request, and in presence of each other subscribed out names as witnesses to the foregoing instrument.

December 11th 1868.

                                                                                                                                                Otis Hayward

                                                                                                                                                W. S. Baker

                                                                                                                                                A. H. Mason

 

Presented for probate on the second Monday of May, 1870, by Rufus P. Kingman, of North Bridgewater, with Josiah W. Kingman and John W. Kingman, of North Bridgewater, as sureties. Letters Testamentary were granted to Rufus P. Kingman, of North Bridgewater, on 9 May 1870.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 106, p. 534-536, from FHL microfilm #0555647, and Vol. 124, p. 375.

 

 

Will of Henry Kingman of Bridgewater, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1775) *

In the Name of God Amen. I Henry Kingman of Bridgwater in the County of Plymouth in New-England, Gent. being Weak in Body but of Sound & perfect Mind & Memory Blessed be Almighty God for the Same Do make & Publish this my Last Will & Testament in the following Manner –

First I Give & Bequeath to my loveing Wife Abigail Kingman One half of all my House hold Goods or Indoor Moveables with One Third Part of my Pew Also Two Cows together with the Improvement of all my Real Estate which I Gave to Seth & Benjamin Kingman untill they are of Age Also my Wearing Apparrell~

Item I Give to my Son Mathew Kingman his Heirs or Assigns forever One Quarter Part of my Right in the Cedar Swamp in Said Bridgwater also half a Purchase Right in Undivided Lands

Item I Give to my Son Henry Kingman his Heirs or Assigns forever One Quarter Part of my Right in the Cedar Swamp aforsd.

Item I Give to my Two Sons Seth & Benjamin Kingman their Heirs or Assigns forever One half Part of my Right in the Cedar Swamp afors’d also Two Third Parts of my Pew to be Equally Divided between them ~ Further I Give to Seth & Benjamin afors’d all my Personal Estate Consisting of Household Goods Live Stock out door Moveables with all other my Personal Estate whatsoever (not otherwise Disposed of in my Present Will which Shall Remain after the Payment of my Just Debts Funeral Expenses & the Several Legacies herein Mentioned.~

Item I Give to my Grand Children Benjamin Pettingale & Mary Pettingale Their Heirs or Assigns to Each of them Six Pounds Thirteen Shilling & four Pence a Piece ~

Item I Give to my Daughter Jane Gurney her Heirs or Assigns the Sum of Thirteen Pounds Six Shillings & Eight Pence ~

Item I Give to my Daughter Ann Keith her Heirs or Assigns the Sum of forty Pounds ~

Item I Give to my Daughter Submit Kingman her Heirs or Assigns the Sum of forty Pounds to be paid to her She Arrives at the Age of Eighteen Years or at the Time of her Marriage –

And I hereby Constitute and Appoint Mathew Kingman Afors’d to be Sole Executors of this my Last Will & Testament & Do hereby Direct (as my Will) that my Just Debts funeral Expenses & the Several Legacies herein Mentioned be paid by my Executor out of my Personal Estate before mentioned In Witness whereof I have hereunto Set my hand & Seal this Eleventh Day of September Anno Domini 1775 ~

Signed Sealed Pronounced & Declared

by the Abovesaid Testator to be his Last                                                                        Henry Kingman                (seal)

Will & Testament In the Presence of us

who have Subscribed our Names as Witnesses

in the Presence of the Testator ~

        Nehemiah Lincoln

        William Jameson

        Josiah Richards

 

Presented for probate on 6 Nov. 1775 by Mathew Kingman of Bridgwater, the Executor therein named, and proved by Nehemiah Lincoln, William Jameson and Josiah Richards, the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Mathew Kingman, the before named Executor.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Henry Kingman Gent. late of Bridgewater, was appraised on 21 Nov. 1775 by Josiah Richards, Ebenezar Packard and Nehemiah Lincoln, and totaled £352.7.2½, his real estate included only his half lot in cedar swamp, his pew, and half a purchase right in common lands. Mathew Kingman, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 1 Jan. 1776.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 24, p. 34-36, from FHL microfilm #0550713.

 

 

Will of Jabez Kingman of North Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1864) *

                                In the name of God, Amen.

                I, Jabez Kingman of North Bridgewater in the County of Plymouth and Commonwealth of Massachusetts, being of sound mind and memory, but, knowing the uncertainty of this life, do this twenty seventh day of May in the year of Our Lord one thousand eight hundred and sixty four, make and publish this my last Will and Testament, in manner and form following, that is to say:—

                                First. I give and bequeath to my Son Cyrus B. Kingman the sum of fifty dollars, to be paid him within one year after my decease.

                                Second. I give, devise and bequeath to my three daughters, viz: Susan Torry wife of Jeremiah J. Torry, Jane Henderson wife of David Henderson, and Eliza D. Belcher, wife of Daniel W. Belcher, the sum of fifty dollars each to be paid to them within one year after my decease.

                                Third. All the rest and residue of my estate, real, personal or mixed, of which I shall die seized and possessed or to which I shall be entitled at the time of my decease (after paying my just debts and charges) I give, devise, and bequeath, to my wife Janette H. Kingman and to my son George H. Kingman to be equally divided between them.

                                Fourth. I do nominate and appoint Franklin Ames to be the Executor of this my last Will and Testament.

                                In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal the day above written.

                                                                                                                                                Jabez Kingman                 (seal)

                                Signed, sealed, published and declared as and for his last Will and Testament by the said Jabez Kingman in our presence, who in his presence and at his request and in presence of each other subscribe the same as witnesses

                                                                                                                                                Perez Southworth

                                                                                                                                                Addison Shaw

                                                                                                                                                Mary Keating

                To the Hon Wm H. Wood Judge of Probate for the County Plymouth, State of Massachusetts.

                The undersigned respectfully declines the trust Conferred upon him in and by the last Will and Testament of Jabez Kingman (now deceased) of North Bridgewater in said County of Plymouth. July 16th 1864.

                                                                                                                                                Franklin Ames

 

Edwin H. Kingman, of North Bridgewater, petitioned for Administration with will annexed of the estate of Jabez Kingman, late of North Bridgewater, on the second Monday of Nov. 1864, with Addison Shaw and Perez Southworth, of North Bridgewater, as sureties. Edwin H. Kingman, of North Bridgewater, was granted Administration with will annexed of the estate of Jabez Kingman on 14 Nov. 1864.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 105, p. 88-89, from FHL microfilm #0555647, and Vol. 114, p. 254 (250).

 

 

Will and Codicil of John Kingman of Cincinnatus, Cortland County, New York (1858) *

                I, John Kingman of Cincinnatus, Cortland County and State of New York, being of perfect mind and memory do hereby make and ordain this my last will and testament in manner following to wit ~

First. I give and bequeath to my son Oliver Kingman One Thousand Dollars –

Second. I give and bequeath to my son John Kingman Jr. seven hundred Dollars –

Third – I give and bequeath to my son Charles Kingman one thousand Dollars –

Fourth – I give and bequeath to my son Lyman Kingman one thousand Dollars –

Fifth – I give and bequeath to my son George I. Kingman one thousand Dollars

Sixth – I give and bequeath to my son Leroy W. Kingman one thousand Dollars –

Seventh – I give and bequeath to my daughter Betsey Maybury Eight hundred Dollars –

Eighth – I order and determine that all my debts and funeral Expenses shall be fully paid, and should there be remaining any real or personal estate after paying off the aforesaid legacies and debts, that then the same shall be divided between my afore said mentioned children in proportion to the amount of their several legacies above named. –

Lastly – I do hereby nominate constitute and appoint my son Oliver Kingman and Roswell K. Bourne Executors of this my last will and testament –

                In Testimony whereof I have here unto set my hand and seal this 18th day of June 1858

                                                                                                                                                John Kingman                                  (seal)

        Signed, sealed, published and declared by the said testator as, and for his last will and testament in our presence, who at his request, and in his presence and in the presence of each other subscribed our names hereunto as witnesses –

                                                D. J. Sperry of Cincinnatus, Cortland County New York

                                                D. C. Dickinson of Cincinnatus, Cortland County New York

 

                Whereas, I, John Kingman of Cincinnatus Cortland County have made my last will and testament in writing bearing date the 18th day of June in the year 1858 in and by which I gave and bequeathed to my son Charles Kingman one thousand Dollars, now therefore, and in him thereof, I do by this my writing, which I here by declare to be a codicil to my said last will and testament and to be taken as a part thereof order and declare that my will is that the $1000 bequeathed to my son Charles Kingman shall be paid to my daughter in law Nancy R. Kingman in full of the said legacy to Charles Kingman, deducting therefrom the amount of the promissory note signed by C & L Kingman, one of said notes payable to me or order, and dated May 5 1857 for the sum of one hundred and fifty Dollars & interest, the other note dated Feb 7 1859 payable to me or order for the sum of one hundred Dollars with interest unless said notes shall be sooner paid –

Also – I order and declare that my will is that the one thousand Dollars bequeathed to my son Lyman Kingman shall be paid to my daughter in law Deborah Kingman in full of such legacy so bequeathed to my son Lyman Kingman deducting therefrom the amount of a certain promissory note signed by Lyman Kingman and payable to me or bearer dated Feb 24, 1855 with the use at 5 per cent for the sum of four hundred and eighty Dollars unless the said note shall be sooner paid ~

Also – in my said last will & testament I appointed Roswell K. Bourne as one of the Executors, now therefore and in lieu thereof I hereby constitute and appoint my son John Kingman Jr. as executor in the place of the said Roswell K Bourne who is with drawn And lastly it is my desire that this codicil be annexed to and made a part of my last will & testament as aforesaid to all intents and purposes –

                In witness whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and seal this 9th day of November one thousand eight hundred and fifty eight –

                                                                                                                                                John Kingman                                  (seal)

                The above instrument, consisting of one sheet was at the date thereof signed, sealed, published & declared by the said John Kingman as and for a codicil to his last will and testament in presence of us who at his request and in his presence and in the presence of each other have signed our names as witnesses thereto –

                                                Israel Gee, Cincinnatus, Cortland County

                                                D. C. Dickinson, Cincinnatus, Cortland County

 

Presented for probate on 11 Feb. 1862 by Oliver Kingman and John Kingman, the Executors. The Codicil proved by D. C. Dickinson and Israel Gee of Cincinnatus on 25 Mar. 1862, and the Will proved by Daniel J. Sperry and D. C. Dickinson, both of Cincinnatus on 25 Mar. 1862.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Cortland County Probate Vol. E, p. 312-315, from FHL microfilm #0843885.

 

 

Will of John W. Kingman of North Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1863) *

                                In the Name of God Amen.

I John W. Kingman of North Bridgewater in the County of Plymouth and Commonwealth of Massachusetts, being of sound and disposing mind and memory, but knowing the uncertainty of life, do this thirteenth day of June in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and sixty three, make and publish this my last will and testament, in manner and form following, that is to say.

First. I wish all my just debts and charges to be paid.

Second. I give and devise to my son Martin and to my daughter Lois, to each of them the sum of one hundred dollars to be paid in six months after my decease.

Third. I give and devise to each of my grand children, who shall be living at the time of my de- the sum of fifty dollars, to be paid in six months after my decease.

Fourth. I give, devise and bequeath to my beloved wife Almira Kingman, all the rest, residue and remainder of my estate real personal and mixed, of every name and nature, to have and to hold the same to her, her heirs and assigns, to her and their use and behoof forever – And I hereby appoint my said wife to be the executrix of this will.

                In witness whereof I the said John W. Kingman have hereunto set my hand and seal the day and year first above written.

                                                                                                                                                John W. Kingman                            (seal)

Signed, sealed, published and declared by the above named John W. Kingman as and for his last will and testament in our presence, who in his presence, and at his request, and in presence of each other have subscribed our names as Witnesses.

                                                                                Frederick Howard

                                                                                Charles F. Marston

                                                                                J. R. Perkins

 

Presented for probate on the fourth Monday of February 1876 by Almira C. Kingman, of Brockton, the Executrix, with Rufus P. Kingman and Welcome H. White, of Brockton, as sureties. Letters Testamentary were granted to Almira C. Kingman on 28 Feb. 1876.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 141, p. 574-575, from FHL microfilm #0556648, and Vol. 134, p. 43.

 

 

Will of Oliver Kingman of Cincinnatus, Cortland County, New York (1870) *

                I Oliver Kingman of the town of Cincinnatus in the county of Cortland and state of New York do make and ordain this my last will and testament in manner following, to wit,

                First I give and bequeathe to my son Charles M Kingman the sum of One Thousand Dollars –

                Second I give and bequeathe to my Daughter Julia A. Kingsley the sum of One thousand Dollars –

                Third I give and bequeathe to my son Henry M. Kingman the sum of One thousand Dollars –

                Fourth, I give and bequeathe to my Daughter Cornelia A Sturtevant my Pianos, Piano Stool and Music, one guitar, Sewing Machine, the Libra & Book case and all my household furniture, Beds & Beding all the stoves in use, fire wood & coal

                Also my house & lot on which I now reside on lot No. 19 in Cincinnatus aforesaid.

                Fifth I give and bequeathe to my grandson Oliver Kingsley the sum of One thousand Dollars.

                I order and determine that all my debts shall be paid

                I also order and determine that all my remaining estate (if any) shall be equally divided between my heirs, to wit, Charles M Kingman, Julia A Kingsley, Henry M Kingman and my Daughter Cornelia A Sturtevant share and Share alike.

                Lastly I hereby constitute and appoint My Son Henry M Kingman and my son-in Law James W Sturtevant Executors of this my last will and testament hereby revoking all other and former wills by me made.

                In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this 22d. day of March 1870

                                                                                                                                                Oliver Kingman                                (seal)

                The foregiving instrument was on the date thereof signed sealed published and declared by the testator Oliver Kingman as and for his last will and testament who at his request and in his presence and in the presence of each other subscribed our names as Witnesses thereto

John D. Fish of Cincinnatus, Cortland County N.Y.

D. D. Ufford of Cincinnatus, Cortland County N.Y.

 

Presented for probate on 22 Jan. 1889 by Henry M Kingman, one of the named Executors, and proved by John D. Fish and D. D. Ufford on 8 Apr. 1889.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Cortland County Probate Vol. S, p. 21-24, from FHL microfilm #0843893.

 

 

Will of Samuel Kingman of Bridgewater, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1740) *

In the Name of God Amen, The third day of June Anno Domini 1740, I Samuel Kingman of Bridgwater in the County of Plymouth in the Province of the Massachusets bay in New England Calling to mind the Mortallity of my body do make and ordain this my last will and Testament, First, I Give my Soul into the hands of God And my body I Commit to ye Earth to be Decently buried at the Discretion of my Executor hereafter named, and as Touching my worldly Estate I dispose thereof as followeth – My Just Debts funerall Charges & other Expence, being first allowed

Imprimis, I Give and bequeath unto Hannah Kingman my Well beloved wife for her Comfortable Support Dureing the time of her Widdowhood the Westerly end of my Dwelling house my best bed with furniture thereto belonging with a Third part of all my houshold goods allso one Cow and wherewithall to keep her both in Summer & Winter & allso Eight bushels of Corne in a year annually to be paid to her by my Son Samuel Kingman –

Item. I give to my Son John Kingman one half of my Neet Cattle Horses Sheep kine Swine and other moveable Estate without Doores (The aforesd. Cow Excepted) allso I Give him a third part of my household goods and moveable within Doores –

Item. I give to my Son Samuel Kingman One half of my Neet Cattle horses Sheep Swine & Other moveable Estate without Doores (The aforesd. Cow Excepted) allso I give him a Third part of my Houshold Goods and moveable Estate within Doores Obligeing him to take the Care of his mother above named and to pay her the Eight bushells of Corne yearly and to keep her Cow for her as above Expressed –

Item  I Give to my Daughter Susanna Packard the wife of Solomon Packard One hundred pounds One half thereof to be paid to her within a year after my Decease and the other half to be paid to her within Two years after my Decease –

Item  I give to the four Children of my Daughter Joanna Pettingale Deceas’d Twenty Shillings a peice vizt To Daniel Pettingale Nathan Pettingale & Jacob Pettingale each of them Twenty Shillings to be paid to them when they Shall Come to Twenty One years of age Respectively and Hannah Pettingale Twenty Shillings to be paid to her when she shall come to Eighteen years of age

Item  I give to my Daughter Jane Kingman the wife of Isaac Kingman Five pounds to be paid to her within a year after my Decease allso I give to the three Children of my Daughter Jane aforesd. Vizt Abigail Kingman Lemuel Kingman and Jane Kingman five pounds a peice That is to say To Lemuel Kingman five pounds when he Shall Come to ye age of twenty One years and to Abigail Kingman and Jane Kingman each of them five pounds to be paid to them when they Shall Come to Eighteen years of age Respectively –

Item  I Give to my Daughter Mary Kingman besides what she hath allready had the Sum of Fifty pounds the One half thereof to be paid to her within a year after my Decease the other half thereof to be paid to her within two years after my Decease –

And my Will is That my Execs. herein named do Seasonably Call in all ye money that is due to me upon book or bonds and that they pay out all ye. Legacies herein Given according to this province bills of the Old tenour – And furthermore I do nominate my Two Sons John Kingman & Samuel Kingman to be the Execters of this my last Will & Testament

Signed Sealed pronounced and Declared by the said Samuel Kingman to be his Last Will and Testament in the Presence of us

Joseph Edson                                                                                                                       Samuel Kingman                             (seal)

David Edson

Jesse Edson

 

Presented for probate on 20 May 1742, and proved by Joseph Edson, David Edson, and Jesse Edson. Letters of Administration granted to John Kingman and Samuel Kingman, both of Bridgwater, Joynt Executors.

 

The Inventory of all the Estate both Real and Personall of Mr. Samuel Kingman late of Bridgwater, was appraised by Joseph Edson, Samuel Beal, and Henry Kingman on 12 May 1742, but not totaled. The appraisers gave their oaths to the inventory on 14 May 1742.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 8, p. 521-524, from FHL microfilm #0551531.

 

 

Will of Thankful Kingman of St. Albans, Franklin County, Vermont (1855) *

                I Thankful Kingman of St Albans in the County of Franklin and State of Vermont being in a very infirm State of health and sensible of the liableness to sudden death, at the same time in my own apprehenson of sound mind do Judge it best to make and accordingly do make this my last Will and testament.

                It is my will that all my just debts and the charges of my funeral be paid and discharged by my executors, hereinafter named and appointed out of my estate as soon as conveniently may be after my decease.

                I give devise and dispose of all my estate, save what may be necessary for the payment of my just debts and funeral charges in the following manner.

1st            I give and divise to my son in law Theodore W. Smith the sum of five hundred dollars in trust for the use and benefit of Sarah Ann Francis, the coloured woman who has lived with me as a faithful and devoted servant for many years past. And I hereby direct the said Theodore W. Smith to invest said sum safely and securely in such manner as he may deem most beneficial and pay the annual proceeds of said investment to the said Sarah Ann Francis during her natural life. And after the death of the said Sarah Ann Francis, the said sum of five hundred dollars is to be divided among my residuary legaties in the manner hereinafter directed.

2nd          I give and devise to Charlotte Prentiss of Munroe in the State of Michigan the sum of One hundred dollars.

3d            I give and devise to Lydia Kingman, daughter of William Kingman deceased, and neice of my late husband N. W. Kingman, the sum of One hundred dollars.

4th           I give and devise to William Kingman Smith, son of Rev. Worthington Smith the sum of One hundred dollars.

5th           I give to my brother N. F. Stone in trust for the benefit of W. S. Field, Eliza S. Whitman, Hester M. Whitman and Louisa J. Bond, children and Grand child of my sister Eliza Field deceased the sum of One thousand dollars, to be paid to said children and grand child, of my said deceased Sister, as may seem just and right to said trustee, according to their circumstances and necessities.

6th           All the residue and remainder of my estate of every kind and description, together with the five hundred dollars which will remain after the death of said Sarah Ann Francis, I hereby will and direct to be equally divided between my Sister Mary Collamer and her heirs, my Sister Harriet A. Moore and her heirs, and my brother N. F. Stone, and his heirs. And in consideration of the love and affection which I bear for my son in law Theodore W. Smith, and for his kindness and attention to myself, and his care and prudent management of my business, it is my will and desire that he shall share equally with my brother and sisters above mentioned in the final distribution of my estate. It is however expresly understood that the bequest hereby made to the said Theodore W. Smith is to be in full satisfaction for his Services heretofore rendered for me in my affairs; and said bequest is made to him on condition that he waive all claims and demands on my estate for said services.

                And I hereby nominate constitute and appoint Joseph H. Brainered and James Davis, jointly and severally to be executors of this my last Will and Testament, and so as that in case of the death, incapacity or resignation of one of them, the other shall then be sole executor of this my last Will and Testament.

                In testimony whereof, I have hereto set my hand and seal, and publish and declare this to be my Last will and testament this 28th day of September in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and fifty five.

Signed, Sealed, published and declared,                                                                         Thankful Kingman                          (seal)

by the said Thankful Kingman as her last

Will and Testament in presence of us who

have hereunto subscribed our names as

witnesses, thereof at the request and in the

presence of said testator, and in the presence

of each other.

                Esther P. Davis

                Margaret

                Wilbur P. Davis

                James Davis

 

Chillis F. Safford and Charles B. Swift, of St. Albans, were appointed to appraise the estate of Thankful Kingman, deceased testate, on 26 Jan. 1856. The inventory of her estate was dated 8 Mar. 1856, and totaled $494.13, but contained no real estate. Demands, notes and leases of the estate totaled $20,811.01. The executors of her estate were James Davis and Joseph H. Brainerd, Esqrs, of St. Albans. Receipts were received by N. F. Stone on 18 June 1856, Theodore W. Smith on 18 June 1856, Mary Ann Smith, guardian of William K. Smith on 22 Oct. 1856, Charlotte M. Prentice on 11 Apr. 1856, and Lydia K. Vanderpoel on 5 May 1856.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Franklin County Probate Vol. 11, p. 183-184, from FHL microfilm #5060987, and Vol. 12, pp. 512-517, 526-527, from FHL microfilm #5060989.

 

 

Will of Peter Lanman of Kingston, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1825) *

In the name of God, Amen. I Peter Lanman of Kingston and Commonwealth Massachusetts being weak in body, but of sound and perfect mind and memory, blessed be Almighty God for the same, do make and publish this as my last Will and Testament in a manner and form following –

        Imprimis. All my debts are to be punctually paid, and the legacies herein after bequeathed are to be discharged as soon as circumstances will permit and in the manner hereafter directed.

        Item To my dearly beloved wife Mary Lanman I give and bequeath the use, profit and benefit of the whole of my Homestead farm both Real and Personal with the buildings situate thereon lying partly in Kingston, Plympton and Halifax as long as she shall remain my widow except such parts thereof as are specially disposed of hereafter.

        Item To my daughter Polly Savory I do give and bequeath the improvement of the North part of a dwelling house situate in Plymouth one front room below a bedroom and two front chambers above and a room for her which may be convenient for her to live in, and her support is to come from the income of the rent of that part of the house –

likewise a privilege in Sally Nichols Kitchen to the oven to bake, and after her decease it is to be the property of Peter Lanman Jr. Isaac Lanman and Thomas Lanman by paying equally the sum of thirty dollars to Elisa E Savory, Mary A Savory, George Holmes Savory, the heirs of Polly Savory.

        Item To my daughter Sally Nichols I do give and bequeath a part of a dwelling house situate in Plymouth one bay up and down in the centre of the house reserving the back chamber with a privilege to pass and repass through said chamber until otherwise accommodated with the legacies to be paid out as will be hereafter mentioned also the rent of sd. house is to be paid yearly, until the decease of Mary Lanman my wife, to be paid to the Executors to be laid out in finishing Polly Savory’s share in sd. house.

        Item To my son Peter Lanman Jr. I do give and bequeath the sum of Six hundred dollars – which is to be paid to him by Isaac Lanman, Samuel Lanman and John Mendall Nichols each of them the sum of two hundred dollars. also a dwelling house and Fish house at Rocky Nook reserving a right for the use and benefit for my other three sons whenever they shall be called there to labor. also one mahogany card table and one maple table, one feather bed and six block tin plates.

        Item To my daughter Nancy Lanman I give and bequeath unto her the sum of two hundred and Fifty dollars to be paid to her as shall hereafter be mentioned, likewise a privilege in the house a room convenient to accommodate her also wood hauled to the door and cut up, by those whom I have given my farm unto sufficient to support a fire as long long as she shall remain single also one bed, one card table.

        Item To my son Isaac Lanman I do also bequeath the one half of my farm and Real Estate with the buildings situate thereon laying partly in Kingston Plympton and Halifax that I have not otherways disposed of, by paying unto Peter Peter Lanman Jr. the sum of two hundred dollars and unto Nancy Lanman the sum of two hundred and fifty dollars, to be paid as soon as can conveniently be paid, also one half the farming Utensils, also my Watch.

        Item To my son Samuel Lanman I do give and bequeath the South end of my dwelling house situate in Plymouth, one bay in a three story dwelling house up and down by the broad entry by paying to Peter Lanman Jr. the sum of Two hundred dollars as soon as is convenient also the rent of sd. house is to be paid as usual, until the decease of my wife Mary Lanman to be paid yearly to the executors of sd. estate to be laid out in finishing Polly Savory share in sd. house.

        Item To my son Thomas Lanman I do give and bequeath the other half of my Farm and Real Estate which I have not already disposed of laying partly in Kingston, Plympton and Halifax with the buildings situate thereon, also one half the farming utensils, one clock, two bed, half a dozen of chairs, also ten dollars to be paid yearly to Thomas Lanman by the executors out of the rent of my property in Plymouth of which I have heretofore disposed of to defray Mary Lanman’s taxes, also one Desk.

        And lastly as to all the rest, residue and remainder of my personal Estate of which I have not already disposed of after all my lawful debts are paid I give and bequeath unto my said beloved wife.

        I also appoint Peter Lanman Jr. and Isaac Lanman my sole executors of this my last Will and Testament: and hereby revoking all former wills by me made.

        In witness whereof I hereunto set my hand and seal this second day of September in the year of our Lord One thousand eight hundred and twenty five.

Signed, sealed and publish’d and declared

by the within named Peter Lanman                                                                                 Peter Lanman                   (seal)

to be his last Will and Testament in

the presence of us, who have hereunto

subscribed our names as witnesses in

the presence of the Testator

                Samuel Everson

                Martin Cook

                Zenas Bryant Jr.

 

Presented for probate on 17 Oct. 1825 by Peter Lanman and Isaac Lanman, the Executors, and proved by Samuel Everson, Martin Cook and Zenas Bryant Jr., the witnesses.

 

John Gray, Spencer Brewster, and Daniel W. Ring, all of Kingston, were appointed to appraise the estate of Peter Lanman, late of Kingston, Shipwright, on 17 Oct. 1825. The Inventory was dated 17 Nov. 1825, his real estate totaled $3514.00, including his homestead farm containing about 90 acres valued at $1600, a large dwelling house and lot in Plymouth valued at $1600, the dwelling house and fish house at Rocky Nook valued at $62, and several other parcels of land. His personal estate totaled $350.19. Peter Lanman and Isaac Lanman, the Executors, gave their oath to the inventory on 21 Nov. 1825.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 59, pp. 449-452, 538-540, from FHL microfilm #0550910.

 

 

Will of Peter Lanman of Kingston, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1852) *

                Know all men by these presents, that I Peter Lanman of Kingston, in the County of Plymouth and State of Massachusetts, yeoman, being in ill health, but of sound and disposing mind and memory, do make and publish this my last will and testament, hereby revoking all former will by me at any time heretofore made.

First. I give to my beloved wife Deborah Lanman, all my personal, or mixed property, and the improvement during her natural life of all my real estate of which I shall die seized and possessed, or to which I shall be entitled at the time of my decease, – after the payment of all my debts and funeral expenses – with the right to take the wood from the unimproved lands; and if the improvement shall be insufficient for her support during her life, she shall have a right to sell and convey any of said real estate as shall be necessary to supply said deficiency.

Second. I give to my son Henry T. Lanman, after the decease of my wife, about one acre of land by estimation, being a part of what I purchased of Lewis & Judith Gray, bounded, beginning at the corner of the land of Edward Gray, on the Easterly side of the highway in Kingston, thence by said Highway, South-Easterly to an old stone wall fence, which was a corner of said land, thence by said wall (part of the way) North forty two degrees East, to the Rail Road; thence North Westerly by said Rail Road, to Edward Gray’s land, then by said Gray’s land to the bound first mentioned.

Third. I give to my son Henry T. Lanman and to my daughters Deborah Lanman, Harriet A. Lanman and Ann E. Lanman all the residue of my Estate in equal shares, after the decease of my wife, if any should remain not disposed of for her support.

Fourth. I hereby constitute and appoint my son Henry T. Lanman, to be sole Executor of this my last will and testament.

                In testimony where of, I hereunto set my hand and seal and publish and declare this to be my last will and testament in the presence of the witnesses named below, this first day of December in the year eighteen hundred and fifty two.  1852.

                                                                                                                                                Peter Lanman                   (seal)

        Signed, sealed, published and declared by the said Peter Lanman as and for his last will & testament, in the presence of us, who in his presence and in the presence of each other, and at his request have subscribed our names as witnesses hereunto.

        John Gray

        W. A. Robbins

        Eli Joyce

 

Presented for probate on the third Monday of February 1853 by Henry T. Lanman, the Executor therein named, and proved by John Gray and W. A. Robbins, two of the witnesses.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Peter Lanman, late of Kingston, was appraised on 4 Mar. 1853 by John Gray, Joshua Delano, and Lewis Gray, his real estate totaled $3161.00, including his homestead with the dwelling house and barn valued at $1333, and his personal estate totaled $184.00. Henry T. Lanman, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on the second Monday of April 1853.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 95, pp. 57-58, 137-138, from FHL microfilm #0555642.

 

 

Will of Chilton Latham of Bridgewater, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1748) *

IN THE NAME OF GOD AMEN ~ the Thirteenth day of June One Thousand Seven Hundred and Forty Eight I Chilton Latham of Bridgwater in the County of Plimouth Gentm. being in Good Helth of Body Excepting the Infirmitys of Old Age but of Perfict Mind and Memory Thanks be Givein to God their for Calling unto Mind the Mortality of My Body and Knowing that it is Appointed for all Men Once to Dye Do Make & Ordain this My Last Will & Testament that is to say Principally and First of all I Give and recomend my soule Into the Hands of God that Gave it and my Body I Recomend to the Earth to be Burried in a Christian Like and Decant Manner at the Discretion of my Executor Nothing Doughting but the Generail Resurection I shall Receive the Same again by the Mity Power of God and as Touch Worldly Estate as it hath Pleased God to Bless me With in this Life Which what Remains unsettled & Dispose of as Follows ~~~

Imprimas ~ I Give and Bequeath unto Susanna my Well beloved Wife my best Fether Bed and Furniture With the Bed stead and Iron Hangings belonging to it unto her & Her Heirs forever ~~~

Item– I Give and Bequeath unto my son Charles Latham besides what I Have allredy Given him a Peace of Meddow in Bridgwater Aforesd. Lying Between Setucket River so Called and the upland which Formerly belonged to Josiah Allen Deceased I say unto him and to his Heirs and Assigns for Ever –

Item– I Give and Bequeath unto my Son James Latham my Next best Fether bed and Beding belonging to it to him & to his Heirs forever besides what I Have Allredy Given Him –

Item– I Give and Bequeath unto my son Robart Latham whome I Likewise Constitute make and Ordain my Only and sole Executor of this my Last Will and Testament and to his heirs and Assigns forEver my Half Purches right in the unDivided Lands in the Eighth miles squairs. in the Township of Bridgwater and Other Fether Bed – & Bedding and Also all my Quick Stock After the Decase of my Wife if she should Out Live me it is Allso my Will that he Should Keep Two Cows for my Wife During her Natural Life I Likewise Give unto him and sofourth – my Iron speit and One Iron Trammel

Item– I Give & Bequeath to my son Joseph Latham Besides what I have Allredy Given him Twenty shillings Old Tenor To be paid to Him or to his Haers by my Executor afore named –

Item~ I Give and Bequeath unto my two GrandChildren Nehemiah Latham & Jean Latham five shillings apeace Old Tenor to be paid To them by my said Executor besides What I have Given to their Father Arthur Latham Decde. By Deed of Gift after my Decease & it is my Desire & Will that the said Nehemiah shall have Two third parts of all the Estate Contained in said Deed & the said Jeane the Other third part thereof –

Item– I Give and Bequeath to my Daughter Susanna Wade the Wife of Thomas Waid Jnr. of Bridgwater besides what I have allredy Given her – all my Trays & Puter & wooden & Earthen Wair With all my Other Indore Movebles Which I have not before in this Will Given away, I say unto her & to her heres for Ever –

Item~ I Give and Bequeath to My Daughter Mary Allen the Wife of Jonathan Allen of Bridgwater Besides What I have Allredy Given her my Negro. Garle named Dina After the Decease of My Wife if she should out Live me she paying to her Brother James Latham or to his Heirs ten pounds Old Tenor at the Time of her Receiving Said Negro. Garl I say unto her and to her Heirs and Assigns for Ever –

                                And I Do hereby utterly Disallow Revoke & Dissanul all and Every Other Will and Testament by me heretofore made Ratyfing and Confirming this and No Other to be my Last Will and Testement I Wittness Where of I have here unto set My hand and seal the Day & Year above Written –

Signed Sealed Published Pronounced and Declared by the said Chilton Latham as His Last Will and Testamen in the Presents of us the Subscribers ~ (viz)

                                                                                                                                                Chilton Latham                                (seal)

Daniel Johnson

Abner Harris

Thomas Latham

 

Plimonth Sc March 2d. 1752 This Will haveing been Exhibited for Probate by the Executor therein Named the said Daniel Johnson Abner Harris & Thomas Latham made Oath that they saw the said Chilton Latham Signe Seal & Deliver and Heard him Declare this Instrument to be his Last Will and Testament and that they in his Presents subscribed as Wittnesses and that he was of sound mind       ~                                              John Cushing Judge of Probate

 

Susanah Latham of Bridgewater, Widdow, was granted administration of the estate of Chilton Latham, late of Bridgewater, Gentelman, deceased, on 7 Oct. 1751.

 

Jonathan Howard, Josiah Snell Junr. and Seth Mitchell, all of Bridgwater in the County of Plimouth Yeomen, were appointed to appraise the estate of Mr. Chilton Latham, late of Bridgwater, deceased, on 2 Mar. 1752. The inventory, dated 8 July 1752, totaled £58.2.5, including a Negro Garle named Dina valued at £26.13.4, but no real estate. Robert Latham, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 17 Sept. 1752.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 12, pp. 444-445, 382-383, 536-537, from FHL microfilm #0551539.

 

 

Will of Dean Latham of East Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1835) *

                In the name of God, Amen. I, Dean Lathum of East Bridgewater in the County of Plymouth, being weak & feeble in body, but of sound & disposing mind & memory, do make, publish & declare this my last Will & Testament in manner as follows

  First – I give & bequeath one third part of all my estate, real personal & mixed, wheresoever the same may be situate, to my brother Barzillai Latham of Buckfield in the State of Maine.

Second – I give & bequeath one third part of all my Estate, real, personal & mixed, to my brother George Latham of Gray in the State of Maine.

  Third. – I give & bequeath the rest, residue & remainder of all my Estate, real personal & mixed, to my brother, Galen Latham of East Bridgewater aforesaid.

  Fourth – It is my wish & intention that all my just debts & funeral expenses be first paid out of my Estate, & that the expenses of Administering upon & settleing my Estate be borne equally by my three brothers aforesaid.

 Fifth – I hereby appoint Williams Latham of Bridgewater sole Executor of this my last Will & Testament.

                In Witness Whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and seal this tenth day of February in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred & thirty five.

                                                                                                                                                Dean Latham                                    (seal)

   Signed, sealed, published & declared, by the said Dean Latham, as & for his last Will & Testament in presence of us, who at his request, & in his presence, have hereunto set our hands as Witnesses.

                Cyrus Morton

                Lysander Washburn

                Phebe Jinkins

 

Presented for probate on 7 July 1835 by Williams Latham, the Executor therein named, and proved by Cyrus Morton, Lysander Washburn and Phebe Jenkins, the witnesses to said Will.

 

Williams Latham of Bridgewater, Esquire, was granted Administration of the estate of Dean Latham, late of East Bridgewater, Yeoman, on 7 July 1735.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 77, pp. 327-328, 405, from FHL microfilm #0555264.

 

 

Will of Joseph Latham of Bridgewater, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1758) *

  In the Name of God Amen this Second Day of June in the year of our Lord 1758, I Joseph Latham of Bridgewater in the County of Plimouth Husbandman having enlisted my Self as a Private Soldier in the Present Intended Expedition against Canada Calling to Mind the Uncertainty of Life and the Certainty of Death do make & publish this my Last Will & Testament Imprs I Comend my Soul into the Hands of God Allmighty who Gave it me & my Body to the Earth from whence it Came In hopes of a Joyefull Resurrection Through the Merrits of my Saviour Jesus Christ & as for that worldly Estate wherewith it has pleased God to Bless me Besides what I have allready Disposed of to my four Sons by deeds of Gift with which I Expect them to be therewith Content I dispose hereof as follows first I Give and Bequeath unto my Dear Beloved Wife Sarah Latham all my Quick Stock & Indoor moveables To Use & Improve Dureing her naturall Life. . .

Item I give & Bequeath unto my Eldest Daughter Betty Latham whom I make & Constitute my Sole Executrix of this my Last Will & Testament half my Quick Stock & Indoor moveables after the decease of my Sd. Wife & Also one half of my Land which was Laid out to me at a place called the Ridge swamp in the third Precinct in Sd. Bridgwater to hold to her & her Heirs & assigns forever I allso give & Bequeath to my sd. Daughter the one half of all such Sum or Sums of money which may be by me or which may Be Due & owing to me at the Time of my Death from any Person or Person whomsoever & in what Way or manner soever the same may become Due encluding the one half of my Wages which may be due to me for my Service in the above Expedition to her & to her Heirs forever

Item I give & Bequeath to my Daughter Sarah Latham the other half of my Quick stock & Indoor moveables after ye. decease of my sd. wife I allso Give to my sd. Daughter Sarah & to her heirs & assigns the other half of my Land lying at the Ridge swamp forever

I allso give to my sd. Daughter the other Half of all such sum or & sums of money which shall be Due & owing to me at the Time of my Death or which I shall then have by me allso Encluding the one half of my Wages which may be owing to me at the Time of my Death to her & to her Heirs forever –

further my Will is that if any Just Debts shall appear to be Due & owing from me to any Person or Persons at the Time of my Death they shall be first paid out of what I have Before given to my sd. Two Daughters in Equal Proportion between them

signd. seald. Publishd. & Declard. By the sd.    {                                                              Joseph Latham                                 (seal)

Joseph Latham to be his last Will & Testamt {

in the Presence of us whose names are here   {

underwritten

Daniel Johnson

James Johnson

Levitt Johnson

 

Plimo. Sc october 9th 1758.  This will haveing been Presented for Probate by the Executor therein Named Daniel Johnson Esqr and James Johnson Made Oath that they saw the said Joseph Latham sign Seal and Deliver and heard him declare this Instrument to be his last will & Testament, and that they at the same time together with Leavit Johnson Subscribed as Witnesses and that according to the best of their Judgment he was then of Sound mind –

                                                                                                                                                Jno. Cushing Judge of Probt –

Administration of the estate of Joseph Latham was granted unto his daughter Betty Latham of Bridgewater, Executrix in the same will named, on 9 October 1758.

 

The Inventory of the Goods Chattels and Real Estate of Mr Joseph Latham late of Bridgwater was appraised on 19 Jany. 1759 by Thomas Whitman, Edward Mitchell and John Orcutt, and totaled £76.14.7, no real estate listed.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 15, pp. 78-79, 253-254, from FHL microfilm #0551543.

 

 

Will of Mary Latham of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1824) *

In the name of God, Amen. I, Mary Latham of Bridgwater in the County of Plymouth and Commonwealth of Massachusetts, widow woman, considering the uncertainty of life and being of Sound and perfect mind and memory, do make and publish this my last Will and Testament as follows. First, I give and bequeath unto my three grand-children Charles Latham and Susana Latham and Nathaniel Latham all my property of every name or Kind, consisting of houshold furniture Bedding money and securities for money and all other articles of every Kind to me belonging to be divided between them in equal shares. Secondly to my daughter Polly Hooper I give nothing, and lastly I do appoint Solomon Alden Jr Esq. my sole Executor of this my last Will and Testament, hereby revoking all former wills by me made. In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this first day of June in the year of our Lord One thousand eight hundred and twenty four  —

                                                                                                                                                Mary Latham                    (seal)

Signed, sealed, published and declared by

the above Mary Latham to be her last

Will and Testament in the presence of us

who at her request & in her presence hereunto

subscribed our names as Witnesses to the same

                Solomon Alden

                Nathl Haskell Jr.

                Lewis T. Alden

 

Probated on 1 Nov. 1825, and proved by Solomon Alden & Lewis T. Alden, two of the witnesses.

 

Abraham Washburn & Rufus Wood, Gentlemen, and Cornelius Holmes, Yeoman, all of Bridgewater, were appointed to appraise the estate of Mary Latham, late of Bridgewater, widow, on 13 Oct. 1825. The Inventory, dated 15 Oct. 1825, totaled $1010.08, no real estate, but $760.05 in Notes for Cash, and $95.19 in Cash on hand. Solomon Alden Jr., the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 1 Nov. 1825.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 59, pp. 483, 497, from FHL microfilm #0550910.

 

 

Will of Samuel Lathrop of Bridgewater, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1776) *

In the Name of God Amen the Seventeenth Day of October in the Year of Our Lord One Thousand Seven hundred & Seventy Six I Samuel Lathrop of Bridgwater in the County of Plymouth & Province of the Massachusetts Bay in New-England Yeoman being Sick & Weak of Body but of Sound Mind & Memory thanks be Given to God therefore Calling to Mind the Mortality of my Body & knowing that it is Appointed for all Men Once to Die Do make & Ordain this my Last Will & Testament that is to Say Principally & first of all I Give & Recommend my Soul into the hands of God that Gave it hoping through the Merrits Death & Pasion of my Saviour Jesus Christ to have full & free Pardon of all my Sins & to Inherit Everlasting Life & my Body I Commit to the Earth to be decently Buried at the Discretion of my Executor hereafter named nothing Doubting But at the General Resurrection I Shall Receive the Same Again By the Mighty Power of God And as Touching Such Worldly Estate wherewith it hath Pleased God to Bless me in this Life I Give Demise & Dispose of the Same in the following Manner & Form ~

Imprimis My Will is that all my Just Debts & Funeral Charges be paid & Satisfyed by my Executor hereafter named in Convenient Time next after my Decease out of My Personal Estate ~

Item I Give & Bequeath to Elizabeth my Dearly Beloved Wife One Cow which with what Estate I have Otherwise Secured to her is for her Dowry ~

Item I Give & Bequeath to my well beloved Son Jonathan over & Above what I have Otherwise allready Given him the Gun that was my son Samuels also One Heifer coming three Years Old. Also One half Part of my Wearing Apparrel all which is what I can Give him for his Portion of my Estate ~

Item I Given & Bequeath unto my Well beloved son Mark all my Personal Estate of Every kind, that is not in this my Will Otherways Disposed of which with What I have Otherways Given him is his Portion of my Estate~

Item I Give & Bequeath to my Trusty Maid named Mary Tomson a Last Spring Heifer Calf to Encourage her, to be faithfull in Serving my Famely & it is my Will that my afores’d Son Mark keep Said Calf for her During the Term & Time of her Living with and Serving my Famely

And I Do hereby Constitute Ordain & Appoint my Aforesd Son Mark Executor of this my Last Will & Testament ~

& I Do hereby Ratify & Confirm this and No Other to be my Last Will & Testament In Witness whereof I have hereunto Set my hand & Seal the Day & Year first afore Written

Signed Sealed & Delivered

by the Said Samuel Lothrop

as & for his Last Will and

Testament in Presence of                                                                                                   Samuel Lathrop                (seal)

us~          Philip Bryant

                Zephaniah Lothrop

                Shephard Fisk

 

Presented for probate on 3 Feb. 1777 by Mark Lathrop, the Executor therein named, and proved by Phillip Bryant and Zephaniah Lothrop, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Mark Lothrop, the before named Executor, with Zephaniah Lathrop of Bridgewater, yeoman, and David Jenkins, of Abington, yeoman, as sureties.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 24, p. 230-233, from FHL microfilm #0550713.

 

 

Will of John Lawrence of Flushing, Queens County, Province of New York (1712) *

In the Name of God Amen The Twenty Ninth Day of September in the Yeare of our Lord Christ one thousand Seven hundred and Twelve, I John Lawrence of Flushing in Queens County on Nassau Island in the Collony of New York Being in health and sound in perfect minde and Memory (thanks be given to almighty God therefore Calling to mind the Mortallity of my body and knowing that it is appointed for all men once to Dye, and in firm beliefe that the Resurrection of the Just shall be to Life Everlasting through Jesus Christ our Lord, I Doe therefore for the reasons above Above given make and appoint this my Last Will and Testament in manner and form following Imprimis I Recommend my Soule into almighty God that gave it and for my body I Commend to the Earth to be Decently buried in a Decent and Christian Like manner according to the Discretion of my Executors hereafter named, ITEM I give and bequeath unto my Dearly beloved Wife Elizabeth Lawrence all my houses Barnes orchards Lands Meadows and appurtenances that I now Life upon untill my Son Richard Lawrence Shall arrive to the age of Twenty one yeares and then my Son aforenamed to Enter into the possession of the one halfe of all my premisses aforemention’d which one half or Moiety of all my aforementioned houses Barnes orchards Lands and Meadows, I give to my Son Richard Lawrence aforenamed to him his heires and assignes for Ever, And the other half of my Estate aforementioned my Wife to have Dureing her widowhood (which Said half or Moiety Soo given I give to my Son Benjamin Lawrence when he Shall arrive to the age of Twenty one yeares to him his heires and assignes for Ever provided my Said Wife shall Live my widdow after my Son Benjamin aforenamed Shall arrive to the age of Twenty one yeares aforesaid, then my two Sons Richard and Benjamin Lawrence Shall pay to my Said Wife the Sume of Twenty pounds Current Money of New York pr yeare Dureing her widowhood Each Sonn. ITEM I give to my Wife aforenamed the one Equall half of my Moveable Estate within my house (Negroes Excepted) to her and her assignes, ITEM I give to my wife aforenamed my two Negroes James and Bess Dureing her widdowhood. ITEM I give to my Son William Lawrence two Cows to be taken out of my Stock before any Division be Made, ITEM I give unto my Daughter Charity Lawrence one Negro Girl named Nell, ITEM I give unto my Daughter Sarah one Negro Girl named Dianna, ITEM I give to my Daughter Elizabeth Ford, Mary Briggs Charity and Sarah Lawrence all the Remainder part of my Moveable Estate Both Quick and Dead to be Divided in the following Manner, To my Daughter Elizabeth Ford the one Fifth part, to my Daughter Mary Briggs the one Seventh part, and the Remainder part to be Equally divided between Charity and Sarah Lawrence, And I doo hereby appoint nominate and Constitute my Loveing Brother William Lawrence and my Trusty and Loveing Friends Colonell Thomas Willett and John Stevenson to be my whole and Sole Executors to See this my Last will and Testament Fully performed according to the true Intent and Meaning thereof utterly Disallowing and Revoakeing all Wills and Testament by me heretofore made, In Testimony Whereof I the Said John Lawrence have hereunto Sett my hand and Seale the Day & yeare first above written.

                                                                                                                                                John Lawrence                 (seal)

Signed Sealed published pronounced and Declared by the Said John Lawrence to be his Last will and Testament In the presence of us.

Deborah Lawrence

Daniel Lawrence

Jacob Doughty

 

Probated on 7 Feb. 1714, and Letters of Administration were granted to Thomas Willet, one of the Executors, with power reserved to William Lawrence and John Stephenson, the other Executors, on 21 Feb. 1714.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from New York County Probate, Liber 8, p. 332-334.

 

 

Will of Hannah Lazell of Hingham, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1825) *

In the name of God Amen I, Hannah Lazell of Hingham in the County of Plymouth and Commonwealth of Massachusetts Widow, in consideration of the uncertainty of human life do make & publish this my last Will & Testament in manner & form following that is to say I give & bequeath to my nephew Samuel Fearing his heirs & assigns forever all my Estate both Real & personal except what I shall hereafter dispose of. Item I give & bequeath unto Samuel Lazell Fearing son of Samuel Fearing one half my homestead containing about eighteen Acres with one half the buildings standing thereon to him his heirs & assigns forever—

Item   I give & bequeath unto my niece Betty Fearing one Cow –

        Item. I give and bequeath unto the children of my nephew Israel Fearing Viz – Lydia C. Fearing, James H. Fearing, Israel Fearing, Perez L. Fearing, and Ebenezer C. Fearing, their Heirs & assigns forever five acres of land in the third division called the Joy lot, equally between them.

Item, I give & bequeath unto my nephews Abiel Fearing, Ezekiel Fearing, John Fearing Jun. and the children of Cushing Fearing decd, Viz: Matilda & Cushing, their heirs & assigns forever, one undivided half of twenty one acres of land in the second part of the third division Also one undivided half of fifteen acres of land in the second part of the third division Also about five acres of land in the second part of the third division that was Thomas Fearing’s to be equally divided between them.

Item I give and bequeath unto my sister Lydia Fearing a living in my house and a comfortable support during her life to be paid out of that part of the Estate I have given to Samuel Fearing

Lastly I hereby constitute & appoint Samuel Fearing sole Executor to this my last Will & Testament & confirm this to be my last will & Testament and order him out of what I have given to pay all my just debts & Legacies and funeral expenses. In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this twentieth day of June in the Year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred & twenty five –

                                                                                                                                                Hannah Lazell  her X mark                               (seal)

Signed, sealed published & declared by the above named Hannah Lazell to be her last Will & testament in the presence of us who have hereunto subscribed our names as witnesses in the presence of the testator

        Hawkes Fearing  –  dead

        Ezekiel Cushing  –  dead

        John Fearing

 

Presented for probate on 5 June 1832, and proved by John Fearing, one of the subscribing witnesses, Hawkes Fearing & Ezekiel Cushing both now deceased. Letters of Administration given to Samuel Fearing of Hingham, Gentleman.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 72, p. 236-238, from FHL microfilm #0555261.

 

 

Will of Isaac Lazell of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1810) *

In the Name of God Amen. I Isaac Lazell of Bridgwater in the County of Plymouth being weak in body but of sound & perfect Mind & Memory blessed be almighty God for the same do make & publish this my last Will & Testament in Manner & form following (that is to say) my Will is that all my just debts & funeral Charges be paid in convenient time after my decease ~ and in the next place I give & bequeath unto my well beloved Wife, Jane the use & Improvement of my Homestead Farm together with all the Buildings thereon containing about 30 acres bounded as followeth, beginning at the Corner of Docr. Noah Fearings Garden wall by the Road thence northwesterly in a direct line by the said Fearings land untill it strikes the Land of Nathaniel Gilbert, containing all my land lying northerly of the last mentioned line & the Boston road, to include the Jonas Leonard lot of about 5 acres – also the Barn & Barn lot lying on the opposite side of the road near my Dwelling house including the Land on both sides of the new road leading to the meeting house, and a small lot on the westerly side of the Turnpike also my Majr Cary Lot, so called, to include all my land lying on the northeasterly side of sd. Boston road & the River.— Also about sixteen Acres of Meadow land bot. of Davis Hayward & others lying on the River & adjoins the Homestead farm of Solomon Hayward—Also about 40 acres of Woodland, being a part of my Timothy Hayward Farm, & contains all the Land which I own on the northerly side of the road leading from the Turnpike thro. my sd. Timy Hayward Farm to Perkins Mill – Also fifteen Acres of Woodland in the old Cedar Swamp, to be set off on the easterly side of my Lot adjoining Ezra Fobes’s lot to extend far enough in width from the said Ezra Fobes’s line & parallel thereto to make the aforesaid quantity.— The uninterrupted use & Improvement of all the above described premises with all the privileges & appurtenances thereunto belonging is to be enjoyed by my sd. Wife Jane, during her remaining my Widow, and no longer.—

Also I give and bequeath unto my sd. Wife Jane, to be at her disposal forever one half of all my neat Stock, except what is hereafter disposed of, one half of all my Swine, my best Horse & Chaise – the whole of all my Household Furniture & Books – the whole of the Provisions & Stores Corn & Grain with one half of the Fodder on hand at my decease, & five hundred Dollars in Money or Good Securities – My right in two Pews in the publick meeting house & one half of all my farming utensils –

        I do also give and bequeath to my Daughter Polly Bates the use & Improvement of one undivided third part of all my Besse Farm (so called) said farm is owned in common & undivided with Solomon Leonard now living on the premises, the said Leonard one quarter part thereof and myself the remaining three quarters, also two thirds of all my right in the Buildings thereon – the use of the aforesaid premises is to be enjoyed by said Daughter Polly during her natural Life & after her to descend to my Grandson Martin Bates in fee simple forever – if he be living at the decease of my said Daughter Polly & should arrive to the age of twenty one Years but if the said Martin should not survive his Mother Polly Bates, or should die before he arrives to the Age aforesaid, in either Case the said premises shall be equally divided between the surviving Children of my said Daughter Polly, their Heirs & assigns to be held by them in fee simple forever–and I do also give to my sd Daughter Polly one third part of all my right in the Stock on the place aforesaid– which together with what I have heretofore given my said Daughter Polly I consider to be her full share of my Estate ~~

        I give and devise to my Daughter Jane Blanchard her Heirs & Assigns forever one other third part of all my right in the aforesaid Besse Farm together with the remaining third part of all the Buildings thereon & one third of my right in the Stock on sd. farm, also five shares in the New Bedford & Bridgwater Turnpike which with what my sd. Daughter Jane has heretofore recd. of my Estate I consider to be her full share thereof —

        And I further ordain that Dinah, a Negro Woman, who has for a considerable time been a useful & faithful Servant in my Family, should have a comfortable support at the Discretion of my Executors hereafter named, during her natural Life, to be paid out of my Estate, not heretofore disposed of on Condition however, that she shall remain in the Family and continue faithful & obedient according to her ability.—

        Whereas for the Encouragement of filling the Fund established for the support of a Gospel Congregational Minister in the S. Parish of sd. Bridgwater, I have heretofore subscribed, the Sum of two hundred Dollars payable whenever the Sums Subscribed together with the Donations & Accumulations of said Fund shall fill the same, so that the Income thereof may be appropriated for the purposes aforesaid, agreeably to the Act establishing the same, my Will is that the aforesaid two hundred Dollars, & one hundred Dollars in Addition thereto making in the whole $300, shall be paid out of my Estate, not before disposed of, for the purposes & agreeably to the Conditions aforesaid. —

        I give & devise all the residue of my Real & personal Estate which is not disposed of as aforesaid to be equally divided between my six daughters viz Anna Fearing, Salome, Rachel, Charlotte, Henriette & Irane, to them their Heirs & assigns forever, to include the reversion of the Real Estate the Improvement of which is given to my wife Jane as aforesaid as well as all other Estate of what name or nature soever, not before disposed of – the same however being subject to the payment of all charges debts or Legacies against my Estate.—

        Lastly I do hereby nominate & appoint my Son in law Docr. Noah Fearing & Nathan Mitchell Esqr. Executors of this my last Will & Testamen —   In Witness whereof I the sd. Isaac Lazell have hereunto set my hand & Seal this 9th. day of May ADom. Eighteen hundred & Ten. –

signed sealed published & pronounced

by the sd. Isaac Lazell to be his last Will

and Testament in presence of

        Elijah Storrs

        Edward Mitchell junr.                                                                                                 Isaac Lazell                       (seal)

        Simeon Packard

 

Presented for probate on 2 July 1810 by Dr Noah Fearing and Nathan Mitchell Esqr., the Executors therein named, and proved by Elijah Storrs and Edward Mitchell junr., two of the witnesses.

 

Nathan Lazell Esqr., Daniel Mitchell Esqr., and Edward Mitchell junr, Trader, all of Bridgewater, were appointed to appraise the estate of Isaac Lazell of Bridgewater, Esqr., on 2 July 1810. The inventory was dated 29 Sept. 1810, and totaled $20,644.80, including his homestead valued at $5500.00, the Majr. Cary Lot abt 20 acres valued at $900, the Jonas Leonard Lot valued at $250, the Davis Hayward meadow valued at $1000, the Timy. Hayward Farm of abt. 110 acres valued at $3315, Sugar Hill Farm, swamp & woodland of abt. 104 acres valued at $2513.25, 3/4ths of the Besse Farm (held in common with Solomon Leonard) valued at $3500.00, and others. The Appraisers gave their Oath on 29 Sept. 1810, extra cash and notes added by the executors brought the total up to $22,369.80, and the Executors Dr Noah Fearing and Nathan Mitchell Esqr. gave their oath to the inventory on 1 Oct. 1810.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 43, pp. 232-233, 289, from FHL microfilm #0550902.

 

 

Will of Jacob Lazell of Middleborough, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1751) *

In The Name of God Amen I Jacob Lezell of Middleborough in the County of Plimouth in New England Being Sick and Weake of Body But of a Sound and Disposing Mind & memory and understanding Blessed Be God therefore Calling to mine ye Mortality of My Body and Knowing that it is appointed for all men once to Die Do Make and ordain this To Be my Last Will and Testement To Stand firm and Remain Invoilabel for Ever principaly and First of all I Give and Recomend My Soul into the Hands of God that Gave it. and my Body I Reckomend unto the Dust To Be Buried in Decent Christen Buriel at the Descretion of my Executor Nothing Doubting But at General Resurection I Shall Receive the Same again and as Touching Such Worldly Estate wherewith it Hath pleased God To Bless me in this Life With I Do Dispose of the Same in the Folowing Mannor and Form—

Impr. I Give and Bequeqth unto My True and Well beloved Wife Elizeboth Lazell that She Brought To me To Be at Her Disposel for Ever: I also Give to her the Improvement of all My Estate untill my Child yet un Born Shall arrive to the age of Eleven years if it Lives So Long and if not I Give her at the Decease of my Child the Sum of Twenty Six pounds thirteen Shillings and Eighte pence out of my Real Estate and She to Give her Rights of Dower to them that I Dispose of it To But if my Child Lives To the age of Twenty one years if a son: or to the age of Eighteen if a Daughter I Give her Nothing of the Twenty Six pounds thirteen Shillings and Eight pence But in Lue of that I Give her ye third part of ye Improvement of my Estate forever—

I Give and Bequeath unto My Child that is Yet unborn all My Estate Besides what I Have Given to My Wife after my Just Debts and funeral Charges are paid and in Case there Should Be Twins the said Estate To Be Equaly Divided Between Them if that or thy arrive To the age of Men or Women and if not I Give What Remains of my Estate after my Wife Has Taken what I gave Her and My Just Debts and Funeral Charges are paid out My Two Brothers William Lazell and Abner Lazell Equally To Be Divided Betwene Them—Item—I Give and Bequeath unto my two Brouthers William and Abner my Two Best Coats my Black Jacket my Best Hat and Wigg and my Two peair of Gloves in in Case my Child Should Live and Grow up and Like Wize My Best Lether Briches  Finaley: I Constitute My True & Well beloved Wife Elizeboth Lazell To Be Executor of this My Last Will and Testement hereby Conferming this and No Other To Be my Last Will as Witness my Hand and Seal This Fourth Day of June Anno Domini 1751—

Signed Sealed and Declared by Jacob Lazell

To Be His Last Will and Testement in presence

off us

Samuel Lewis

Ephram Wood                                                                                                                      Jacob Lazell      (seal)

Tabitha Man

 

Presented for probate on 10 July 1751 by the Executor therein named, and proved by Ephram Wood and Tabitha Man.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 12, p. 294-295, from FHL microfilm #0551539.

 

 

Will of Joshua Lazell of Middleborough, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1748) *

In the Name of God amen, I Joshua Lazel of Middlebro in the County of Plymouth in New England being very weak of body but of perfect Sound & Disposeing Memory, Blessed be God for the same  Where fore Calling to mind the Mortality of my body and knowing that it is appointed for all men once to die do make and Ordain this to be my last will & Testament to Stand and remain firm and Inviolable forever that is to say Principally and first of all I Give & recomend my Soul into the Hands of God that gave it and my body I recommend to the Dust to be buried in decent Christian Burial at the Discretion of my Executrix Nothing doubting but at the General Resurrection I Shall receive the same again by the mighty power of God and as touching the worldly Estate Wherewith it hath pleased God to bless me in this life I Give Demise & dispose of the same in the following manner and form ~~~

Imprimis I Give and bequeath to my true & well beloved wife Elisabeth all the Goods or Estate She brought with her when She became my wife to be hers forever.

Item I Give and bequeath my Dwelling house Standing near the old meeting house in Middleborough & upon the ministerial lands, and also all my Other Estate being all Personal (after my Just Debts & funeral Charges are paid) Unto my aforesaid wife for her to use and improve according unto her best discretion for the Necessary Support of herself and the bringing up of my three Children so long as She remains my widow and if in Case there remains any of my sd Estate after She marrys again that then the remaining part thereof to be divided amongst my three Children, One half to my son Prince Lazel and the other half unto my two daughters Elizabeth and Mary. And my Will also is that my Well beloved wife Elizabeth Lazel be the Executrix of this my last Will and Testament Thus hopeing that this my Last will and Testament will be kept & performed according to the true Intent & meaning thereof &c,  And in Testimony hereof I the aforesd. Joshua Lazel have hereunto Set my hand & Seal this 14th. day of January One thousand seven hundred & forty Eight

Signed Sealed Published pronounced

& Declared by the sd Joshua Lazel as

his Last Will & Testamt.                                                                                                    Joshua Lazell                                    (seal)

In presence of us the Subscribers

Oxenbridge Thacher

John Redding

Seth Tinkham

 

Presented for probate on May 11th 1749 by the Execx. within named, and proved by Oxenbridge Thacher and John Reading, two of the witnesses.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 11, p. 219-220, from FHL microfilm #0551537.

 

 

Will of Silvanus Lazell of East Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1827) *

                I, Silvanus Lazell of Bridgewater in the County of Plymouth, Esquire, considering my advanced age and the uncertainty of human life, as well as the peculiar situation of my family, do make and ordain this my last Will and Testament in manner and form following viz.     I give and devise unto my wife Abigail, the use and improvement of one third part of all my real estate, of which I may die seized and possessed, to have and to hold the same for and during her natural life.

                I give and devise unto my daughter, Nabby Mitchell, the dwelling-house which I have lately built, and in which my grand-son S. L. Mitchell now lives, to have and to hold the same to her and her heirs and assigns forever.

                I give and devise unto my grand-son, George Henry Brown, the dwelling house in which his parents now live, with the land on which it stands, being the Estate which I bought of Col. John M. Goodwin, to have and to hold the same to him, his heirs and assigns forever, giving and reserving unto his two sisters, Lucy Ann Brown and Harriet Mitchell Brown, the right and privilege of living in the same so long as they shall remain unmarried.

                I give and devise all the rest and residue of my Estate, of any description and wherever it may be, unto my eight grand children, viz Harriet Davis, wife of N. M. Davis Esqr. Silvanus L. Mitchell, Mary Orr Mitchell, Elizabeth C. Mitchell, and James H. Mitchell, children of my daughter Nabby Mitchell aforesaid, Lucy Ann Brown, George H. Brown, and Harriet M. Brown, children of my daughter Betsey Brown, equally to be divided between them, to have and to hold to them respectively and their respective heirs & assigns forever.  And I do hereby appoint my son-in law Bartholomew Brown Esquire to be Trustee of all the Estate I have given to his children, to manage the same, and see the income and profits there of applied to their best advantage and benefit, so long as he and his wife shall both live, and if she survive him it is my Will that she shall then be, and I do hereby appoint her accordingly, Trustee in like manner of the same Estate during her life, to manage the same and apply the profits and income thereof in the same manner as aforesaid.   And should any one or more of my last three named grand children, children of my said daughter, Betsey Brown die while under age or without issue, then it is my Will that the share or shares of the deceased shall go to the survivor or survivors of them.   It is also my Will, and I do hereby direct that neither the said Bartholomew Brown, nor my daughter Betsey Brown aforesaid, be required to give any bonds or other obligation or security to the Judge of Probate or other person for the faithful performance of the trust which I have herein as aforesaid reposed in them.

                And I do give, forgive, and relinquish unto my son-in-law, Bartholomew Brown Esquire all notes of hand, book accounts, and other demands of every nature, provided and on condition that he shall make no demand or claim of any kind whatever against my estate.

                And I do now nominate, constitute, and appoint my son-in-law Nahum Mitchell Esquire to be sole Executor of this my last Will & Testament.     In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this nineteenth day of July in the year of our Lord One thousand eight hundred and twenty-seven.

Signed, sealed, & published by the Testator as his last Will &

Testament in presence of us who have hereunto                                                           Silvanus Lazell                                 (seal)

subscribed our names as witnesses, at his request & in his presence and in

presence of each other.                       Benjamin Fessanden

                                                                John M. Goodwin   –   Cushing Mitchell

 

The last Will and Testament of Silvanus Lazell, late of East Bridgewater, Esquire, was presented for probate on 15 Oct. 1827 by Nahum Mitchell, the Executor therein named, and proved by Cushing Mitchell, one of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Nahum Mitchell, the before named Executor.

 

Abisha Stetson, Isaac Alden 2d, and Azor Harris, all of East Bridgewater, were appointed to appraise the Estate of Sylvanus Lazell Esquire, late of East Bridgewater, on 15 Oct. 1827. The Inventory of the Estate of Silvanus Lazell, late of East Bridgewater, was dated 14 Jan. 1828, and totaled $20,306.10, including his extensive real estate holdings valued at $19,831, of which his homestead was valued at $3200, the dwelling house occupied by B. Brown Esqr. valued at $1200, and the house occupied by S. L. Mitchell also valued at $1200. Nahum Mitchell, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 18 Feb. 1828, and he was ordered to sell at public auction the personal estate of the deceased.

 

Abisha Stetson, Isaac Alden 2d, and Azor Harris, all of East Bridgewater, Freeholders, were appointed to divide the real estate of Genl. Silvanus Lazell, late of East Bridgewater, among his grandchildren Harriet Davis wife of Nathaniel M Davis Esqr,, Silvanus L. Mitchell, Mary P Ames, wife of David Ames Jur., Elizabeth C. Mitchell, and James H Mitchell, children of Nahum Mitchell, Esqr., and Lucy Ann Brown, George H. Brown and Harriet M. Brown, children of Bartholomew Brown, Esqr., as was devised to them in and by his last Will & Testament, on 18 Feb. 1828. The division was dated 1 Jan. 1829, and approved on 6 Apr. 1830.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 64, pp. 301-303, 455-457, from FHL microfilm #0555258, and Vol. 69, p. 130-134.

 

 

Will of John Leach of Halifax, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1807) *

  In the Name of God amen. I John Leach of Halifax in the County of Plymouth and Commonwealth of Massachusetts Yeoman being weak in Body but of sound mind & Memory, considering the Uncertainty of this mortal Life & knowing it is appointed for man once to die, do make & ordain this my last Will & Testament That is to say, first of all I give and recommend my Soul into the hands of God who gave it, & my Body I recommend to the Earth to be buried in a decent Christian Burial, at the discretion of my Executor, nothing doubting but at the Resurrection I shall receive the same again by the mighty power of God, & with respect to my worldly, with which God has blessed me with in this Life, I give demise & dispose of the same in the following Manner – that is to say —

                I give and bequeath unto my Son John Leach his Heirs & assigns forever all my Real Estate & all my personal Estate excepting what is hereafter disposed of otherwise after my just debts & funeral Charges being first paid, and the Legacies hereafter mentioned—

                I also give and bequeath unto my seven Daughters, Betty Holmes, Elizabeth Tomson, Abigail Hall, Anna Leach, Mary Leach, Lucy Hall & Deborah Leach one Dollar to each of them. —

                I also give unto my Daughters Anna Leach, Mary Leach & Deborah Leach, each of them, one Bed & Beding apiece, I also give and bequeath unto my Daughters, Anna Leach, Mary Leach & Deborah Leach each of them a privilege of living in my house, so long as they shall live a single Life —

                I also give and bequeath unto my three Grandsons, Levi Leach, Giles Leach & Simeon Leach each of them five Dollars to be paid within twelve months after my decease. —

        And I do hereby appoint my Son John Leach to be my sole Executor of this my last Will and Testament, hereby revoking all former Wills by me made—

 In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand & seal the twenty fourth day of February in the Year of our Lord One thousand eight hundred & seven. –

Signed sealed published & declared by the above named

John Leach to be his last Will & Testament in the

presence of us who have hereunto subscribed our

Names as Witnesses in the presence of the

Testator~                                                                                                                               John Leach                                        (seal)

                Josiah Tomson

                Freeman Waterman

                Nat. Morton.

 

Presented for probate on 7 April 1807 by John Leach, the Executor therein named, and proved by Josiah Tomson Esqr. and Nathl. Morton, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to John Leach, the before named Executor.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 42, p. 75-76, from FHL microfilm #0550902.

 

 

Will of Philo Leach of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1849) *

  Be it remembered that on the twenty fourth day of October in the year 1849, I Philo Leach of the town of Bridgewater in the County of Plymouth and State of Massachusetts being of sound disposing mind and memory do make publish and declare the following to be my last Will and Testament.

First. I give and bequeath all my Estate both real and personal to my beloved wife Lucia H. Leach with such instructions as may be hereinafter contained and I also appoint her sole Executrix of this my last Will.

        In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal the day and year within written.

                                                                                                                                                Philo Leach                                       (seal)

  Signed sealed published and declared by the said Philo Leach to be as his last Will and Testament, who in his presence and in the presence of each other have subscribed the same as Witnesses.                                                                                                 Nicholas Tillinghast

                                                                                                                                                Ruby H. Tillinghast

                                                                                                                                                Elizabeth Hooper

 

Presented for probate on the first Tuesday of Oct. 1853 by Lucia H. Leach, the Executrix therein named, and proved by Elizabeth Hooper, one of the witnesses whose names are subscribed thereto. Letters Testamentary were granted to Lucia H. Leach, the Executrix therein named.

 

Lucia H. Leach, of Bridgewater, was appointed as Executrix of the last Will and Testament of Philo Leach, late of Bridgewater, on 4 Oct. 1853, with Mitchell Hooper and Philander Leach, both of Bridgewater, as sureties.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 95, p. 454-455, from FHL microfilm #0555642, and Vol. 2I, p. 9.

 

 

Will of Reuben Leach of Plymouth, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1864) *

                                Know all men by these Presents that I Reuben Leach of Plymouth County of Plymouth and State of Massachusetts Yeoman being of sound disposing mind and memory, do make and publish this my last Will and Testament.

                                First. I give and bequeath to my beloved wife Mary M. Leach all my personal property.

                                Second. I give and bequeath to my beloved wife Mary M. Leach all my real estate remembering my son Reuben H. Leach, my daughter Betsey Leach, and my daughters Mary S. Whiting and Phebe L. Churchill.

                                Third. I ordain and appoint my wife Mary M. Leach as Executrix of this my last Will and Testament.

                                In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and seal, and publish and declare this to be my last Will and Testament in the presence of the witnesses named below this 26th day of September in the year of Our Lord one thousand eight hundred and sixty four.

                                                                                                                                                                his

                                                                                                                                                Reuben  X  Leach                                (seal)

                                                                                                                                                                mark

                                Signed, sealed, published and declared by the said Reuben Leach, and for his last Will and Testament in presence of us, who in his presence and in the presence of each other, and at his request have hereunto subscribed our names as witnesses.

                                                                                Obadiah King

                                                                                John A. Burgess

                                                                                George Bramhall

 

Presented for probate on the second Monday of Nov. 1864 by Mary M. Leach, of Plymouth, with Benjamin D. Finney and Caleb M. Finney as sureties. Letters Testamentary were granted to Mary M. Leach, of Plymouth, on 14 Nov. 1864.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 105, p. 86-87, from FHL microfilm #0555647, and Vol. 114, p. 451 (479).

 

 

Will of Dr. Francis LeBaron of Plymouth, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1703) *

The thirtieth Day of September Anno Domoni~1703

I Francis Lebaron of Plimouth in the County of Plimouth in New England Chirurgeon being at this present Sick and Weak of body but through mercy of Sound disposing mind and memory. Do hereby make and Declare this my Last Will and Testament as followeth That is to Say first and Principally I Commit my Eternall Concernments to the Mercy of God in Jesus Christ and my body to Decent burial when it shall please God to take me hence And Touching my Outward Estate Which the Lord hath blessed me with my Will and meaning is that the same shall be Imployed and bestowed as herein shall be Expressed that is to say First of all That all my just Debts to any Person or Persons be Duly Paid by my Executrix hereafter named And after the said Debts and my funeral Expenses be Discharged and Paid my Will is That my whole Estate be in the hands and Custody of Mary my Wellbeloved Wife so Long as she shall Remain my Widdow and Continue in my Name to be managed by her as followeth Viztt: my money and money Debts Owing and Due to me to be sett Out to Such as shall see Cause to take the same and pay Annual Interest therefore, which sd Interest to be for ye support of my said Wife and Children. I also Will that Francis my youngest son shall Come to the age of twenty one years that then my farm on which my Dwelling house standeth in the Township Middleborrough with all my Meadow there be Duly apprized and the Value thereof known And that James my Eldest son shall have and Enjoy the same to him his heirs and Assigns for Ever he paying two thirds of the Value thereof to his two Brethren Namely Lazarus and Francis my Sons  Also it is my Will that the Residue of my Estate both Lands Goods and Chattells (Except What of it shall be Disposed of by this my Will) Shall be Equally distributed and Divided Amongst my said three sons at the Day of the Decease of my sd Wife or at the time of her Againe Marriage~Which shall first happen, or be provided always And it is my Will that my said wife have Residence in my sd House and farm and a Comfortable Support and maintenance Out of my sd Estate so long as she shall Continue my Widdow but if she shall Againe marry and Go Out of my name then at the Day of her said marriage I hereby Give unto her the full sum of Sixty Pounds in money or such of my Goods as she shall then see Cause to make Choyce of     And the Remainder of my Estate to be for the Support Comfort & bringing up of my sd Children and to be Distributed amongst them in Equall proportion as aforesaid

Item I Give and bequeath to ye Poor of the Town of Plimouth Ninety Acres of my Land lying in the said Township of Middleborrough And of such of my Land there as Lyeth nearest to ye Township of Plimouth to be for the use and Benifit of ye sd Poor for Ever finally I hereby Nominate & Appoint Mary my said Wife to be Sole Executrix of this my Last Will & Testament, In Testimony whereof and in full Confirmation of the same I the said Francis Lebaron have hereunto set my hand & Seall on ye thirtieth Day of Septembr Anno Domini One thousand Seven Hundred & three being the Day & year first herein Written

Signed Sealed and Declared by the sd                                                                             LeBaron                           (seal)

Francis Lebaron to be his Last Will

and Testament in presence of us

James Warren

John Bradford junr

Saml Sprague

 

Probated on 22 Sept. 1704, and proved by James Warren Esqr, John Bradford junr. & Mr. Samuel Sprague.

 

An Inventory of the Goods Chattells Rights and Credits of Mr Francis Lebaron late of Plimouth, taken on 15 Sept. 1704 by John Murdo and Saml Sprague, not totaled, his housing and lands in Plimouth lying in severall parcells totaled £116, his house, land, meadows and rights of land in Middleborro was valued at £340, debts due to the estate upon bonds and bills some of which desperate £328.15, and debts due upon booke, much of it desperate debts £100.2.3. Mary Lebaron, the Executrix, gave her oath to the inventory on 22 Sept. 1704.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 2, p. 55-57, from FHL microfilm #0550748.

 

 

Will of James LeBaron of Middleborough, Plymouth County, Massachusetts Bay (1780) *

Know all men by these presents that I James LeBaron of the Town of Middleborough in the county of Plymouth, in the State of the Massachusetts Bay in New England, being weak of body, yet of a sound and disposing memory and understanding, blessed be God for the same, yet knowing the mortality of my body and that it is appointed for all men once to die, do make and ordain this my Last will & Testament to be firm and Inviolable forever

Imprimis—I Give and bequeath to my well beloved wife Hannah one third part of all my moveable-Estate after my Just debts and funeral charges are first paid out of the same to be at her own disposal, and further I Give and bequeath to her my said wife the use and Improvement of one third part of all my Real Estate during her natural Life; and further I Give and bequeath to her my said wife the use and improvement of the whole of my Estate Real and personal or moveables (after my Just debts and funeral Charges are first paid out of said moveables) so Long as she shall remain my widow, she paying the Legacies hereafter expressed

Item—I Give and bequeath to my Ten Children, namely Japheth LeBaron – Elisabeth LeBaron, Martha the wife of Daniel Tinkham, William LeBaron, James LeBaron, Francis LeBaron, Isaac LeBaron, Hannah LeBaron, Abigail LeBaron and Lazarus LeBaron, to be equally divided between them, all my Estate Real & personal or moveables excepting the improvement and disposal above mentioned, to them their heirs and assigns forever – and further I Give and bequeath to my ten children above mentioned, each one of them five spanish milled Dollars to be paid to them by my said wife in two years after my decease, to them that are then arrived to the age of twenty one years, and to them that are not then arrived to the age of twenty one years, to be paid to them by my said wife at the time when they arrive to said age

Item—my will is and I hereby constitute and appoint my aforesaid wife Hannah and my aforesaid Son Japheth, to be Executors to this my Last will and testament, thus hoping that this my Last will and testament will be kept and performed according to the true intent and meaning thereof—I commit my soul into the hands of God who Gave it and my body to the dust to a decent burial—In witness whereof I the said James LeBaron have hereunto set my hand and Seal this fourteenth day of September one thousand Seven hundred and Eighty

Signed Sealed, pronounced and declared

by the said James LeBaron as his Last will                                                                     James Le Baron                                (seal)

& testament in the presence of us

                Consider Benson

                Lydia  X  LeBaron

                Jacob Bennett

 

Presented for probate on 6 Nov. 1780 by Hannah LeBaron and Japheth LeBaron, the Executors therein named, and proved by Consider Benson and Jacob Bennett, two of the witnesses. Letters Testamentary were granted to Hannah LeBaron and Japheth LeBaron, the before named Executors.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 28, p. 3-4, from FHL microfilm #0550715.

 

 

Will of Japheth LeBaron of Middleborough, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1810) *

In the name of God amen. I Japheth LeBaron of Middleborough in the County of Plymouth & Commonwealth of Massachusetts yeoman now being in perfect Mind & Memory. Thanks be to God for it considering the Mortality of the Body, knowing & believing that it is appointed for all men to die do make & ordain this my last Will & Testament; principally & first of all I give my Body decent Christian Burial, & give my Soul to God; who gave it to us touching my temporal Estate; that God hath blessed me with, I dispose of in the following Manner after my just debts & funeral Charges are paid. —

        Item I give and bequeath to my well beloved Wife Sarah LeBaron one third of the Improvement of all my real Estate during her natural Life —

        Item I give and bequeath to beloved Son Joseph LeBaron one half of my real Estate being the northwesterly side. —

        Item I give & bequeath to my other Son Japheth LeBaron the other half of my real Estate & one Featherbed & a Cow. —

        Item I give and bequeath to my only Daughter Sarah LeBaron one hundred Dollars & all my indoor Moveables that are not disposed of above & the privilege of House-room & firewood so long as she lives a single Life & also one Cow the Remainder to be equally divided between the sd. Sarah LeBaron & the 2 Sons & daughter —

        Item I give & bequeath to my two Sons equally all my wearing Apparel. —

        Further I constitute & appoint my eldest Son Joseph LeBaron sole Executor of this my last Will and Testament. —

        In Witness whereof I the said Japheth LeBaron have hereunto set my hand & seal this eleventh day of January one thousand eight hundred & ten. —

signed sealed & delivered in presence of

        Abiel Shurtleff

        John LeBaron                                                                                                              Japheth LeBaron                             (seal)

        Rebecca Benson

 

Presented for probate on 17 July 1816 by Joseph LeBaron, the Executor therein named, and proved by Abiel Shurtleff and John LeBaron, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Joseph LeBaron, the before named executor.

 

Eli Atwood, John Bent and Matthew Cushing, all of Middleborough, Gentlemen, were appointed to appraise the estate of Japheth LeBaron, late of Middleborough, Yeoman, on 17 July 1816. The Inventory of the Estate of Japheth LeBaron, late of Middleborough, dated 24 July 1816, totaled $2417.86, including his real estate valued at $2162. Joseph LeBaron, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 24 Oct. 1816.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 48, pp. 135-136, 511-512, from FHL microfilm #0550905.

 

 

Will of Dr. Lazarus LeBaron of Plymouth, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1772) *

                                                In the Name of GOD, Amen.

  I Lauzarus LeBaron of Plymouth in New-England Physician, being in health & of a disposing mind & memory, blessed be God, for it, think it my duty to dispose of ye estate God has given me, & accordingly do dispose of it as follows. —  But first I give my Soul to God, hopeing & believing thrô the merits & rightiousness of Jesus Christ my dear redeemer to find acceptance with him, my body & comit to the dust to be decently buried at the discretion of my executors hereafter named, hopeing for a Glorious resurection. As to my worldly substance I give & bequeath as follows, that is to say after my Just debts & funeral charges are paid by my executors. —  Imprimis. My will is that all my wearing apparel woolen or linen, be eaqualy devided too & among my Sons namely Lauzarus, Bartlet, Isaac, Lemuel, Frances, William, — 2d. I give to my Son Lauzarus, all yt is due to me from him on book or notes of hand for money or moneys I have paid for him, Also, one fifth part of all my medicines, these with what he already has had to be accounted in full of his part of my estate.  3d I give to my Son Bartlet LeBaron the house & land where he now dwells wch. I bought of Father Waite, also, a peice of wood land I bought of David Morton containing 33 Acres, lying between half house plain, & Ele-river, the bounds of sd. lands by ye deeds will more fully appear, Also, I give him all yt is due to me from him on book notes of hand & wch. is in full of his part of my estate including what he has already had. —

Item I give to my four daughters, Viz, Lydia Goodwin, ye Widow of Nathl. Goodwin deceased, Mary Bradford, the wife of Doctr. Bradford, of Bristol, Hannah Goodwin, wife of Benja. Goodwin of Boston, Elizabeth Robins, wife of Ammy Robins of Norfolk Conecticut, four fifth parts of all my medicines in my Shop & to be eaqualy devided among them wth. what they already have had is in full of there parts of my Estate. —

Item. I give to my daughter Priscilla LeBaron, two hundred sixty six pounds thirteen shillings & four pence Lawfull money, to be paid to her by my executors, Also, one half of ye Puter in ye. Kitchen, Also, A Bed well furnished, Table, chain, looking-glass, & also, ye use of ye. greenpainted chamber, so long as she remains unmarried & a privelege in ye. Sellar, Kitchen, garret, & also, a seat in my Pue in ye. Meeting-house, all as her part of my estate in full, Also, I order that five cord of wood be brought to the house yearly & every year, for her use till she is married. —

Item. I give to my Grand daughter Sarah Hazen, wife to Mr. Hazen, daughter to my Son Joseph LeBaron decd. fifty spanish milled Dollars, wch is in full of her Father’s part of my estate.— 7th. I give my Son in Law Elkanah Cushman, a suit of cloaths & his board with Me.

8th. I give to my four Sons I had by my last Wife Viz. Isaac LeBaron, Lemuel Le Baron, Francis LeBaron, William LeBaron, there heirs & assigns forever, all the residue of my estate real or personal, not already disposd. of wheresoever lying or being in this government or any other government, of what name or nature soever,.— 9th. I also nominate ordain & apoint, my two Sons Viz. Isaac LeBaron of Boston, & Lemuel LeBaron of Rochester, to be my executors of this my last will & testament hereby revoking & disanulling & declairing void all other former wills by me hiretofore made, declaring this to be my last will & Testament, as wittness my hand & seal this twentyfourth day of Septr. one thousand seven hundred & seventy Two. 1772. —

Signd. seald. pronouncd. publishd. & declard. to be his Last

Will & testament in presence of Thos. Mayhew, Isaac Doten,                                   Lazarus LeBaron                             (seal)

                                                                Rebecca Fuller

 

Presented for probate on 4 Oct. 1773 by Isaac LeBaron & Lemuel LeBaron, the Executors therein named, and proved by Thomas Mayhew and Isaac Doten, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Isaac LeBaron and Lemuel LeBaron, the before named executors.

 

The Inventory of the Estate Real & Personal of Lazarus Lebaron Physician Late of Plymouth died seized of appraised on 25 Oct. 1773 by Thos. Forster, Thos. Mayhew, and Edw. Winslow Junr., and totaled £3398.9.5, including many parcels of real estate. Isaac Lebaron and Lemuel Lebaron, the only Surviving Executors gave their oath to the inventory on 21 Apr. 1774.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 21, pp. 324-325, 610-614, from FHL microfilm #0550712.

 

 

Will and Codicils of Rev. Lemuel LeBaron of Rochester, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1811) *

                In the name of God, Amen : Be it Known that I Lemuel LeBaron of Rochester in the County of Plymouth, Clerk, do make this my last Will and Testament. My Soul I trust God will take to himself, and, thro’ the merits of the Lord Jesus Christ, give it a place in the assembly of Saints in the world above – my body I wish to have it disposed of according to christian usage : the following is my Will respecting my temporal interests viz – That eight hundred and seventy nine dollars and eighty six cents which I have already advanced to my son Lemuel LeBaron be a part of his portion, and that three hundred and thirty two dollars and ninety two cents which I have already advanced to my son John A. LeBaron be a part of his portion – and that therefore both said sums go into the appraisement of my estate – and that the field which I bought of Elisha Shearman, worth four hundred and fifty dollars, be a part of John A’s portion, and go into said appraisement.

                That my beloved wife Elizabeth have the use of all my estate, real and personal, during her natural life, after my debts are paid, to pay which debts my Executor is hereby empowered to sell such of my estate as will be sufficient, excepting the particulars herein mentioned – That whatever of my estate which shall remain after my Wifes decease, be divided in the following manner, viz, that each of my daughters, Elizabeth LeBaron and Sally A. LeBaron have the value of five hundred dollars and all my household furniture, equally to be divided between them – And if either of my daughters should die before this Will is proved, the surviving daughter have all the furniture above mentioned –   That the residue of my Estate be equally divided between my four sins, Lemuel, John A., William and Lazarus LeBaron – and here let it be noted that the above said $879.86 be a part of Lemuels dividend – and the above $332.92 and the field worth $450 be a part of John A’s dividend. That John A. LeBaron and William LeBaron conjointly be Executors of this my last Will and Testament.

                In testimony of all which I do hereunto set my hand and seal this thirteenth day of June AD 1811.

                                                                                                                                                Lemuel LeBaron                              (seal)

                Signed, sealed and declared,

                                in presence of

                Elnathan Hammond

                Ebenezer Rogers

                Israel Hammond

                Elizabeth Rogers

 

                                                                                                                                Whereas I have written on the same sheet of paper my Will, bearing date the thirteenth day of June eighteen hundred and eleven, in which there is a bequeathement to my daughter Sally A. LeBaron (now Mayhew) it is further my Will, that in addition to what is there given her she have a small wood-lot, lying on the West side of the road leading from where the Meeting-house formerly stood, to the middle of the town, containing about ten acres – And here let it be noted that the house built by son Lazarus LeBaron since the Will first referred to was written, is his sole property – And this Codicil to my said Will, it is my order that it have equal validity and force as any other article contained in said Will – in confirmation of all which I do hereunto set my hand and seal this twentieth day of February eighteen hundred and twenty one.

                                                                                                                                                Lemuel LeBaron                              (seal)

                Signed, sealed and declared

                                in presence of

                Elnathan Hammond

                Ebenezer Rogers

                Elizabeth Rogers

 

                                                                                                                                Explanation or schedule of the within – I give to the four children of my son William deceased all that is due to me in the New Bedford Bank for Savings, amounting in the whole to about a thousand dollars or over a thousand – four tenths to go to William B. the son of my deceased son – and four tenths to Henry his other son – and one tenth to each of his two daughters Sarah Ann and Elizabeth – which shall cancel every claim which said children may have on my Estate.

                And further-more that all the cleared land of my Cattle farm, excepting the Aron lot, go unto my son Lazaru’s portion – and the residue of my estate, if any, shall be equally divided among my surviving children – all which as written on this page, shall be equally valid to any other part of the within instrument. The Aaron lot is bequeathed to my two Grandsons Francis and Thomas Mayhew.

                                                October 17thday Anno Domini 1836                               Lemuel LeBaron                              (seal)

                Signed, sealed and declared

                                in presence of

                Jonathan Kinney

                Roger W. Hammond

                Maria L. Hammond

 

Presented for probate on 31 May 1837 by John A. LeBaron, the surviving Executor therein named, the will proved by Ebenezer Rogers and Israel Hammond, two of the witnesses to the Will, Elnathan Hammond and Elizabeth Rogers both now deceased, Ebenezer Rogers, a witness to the first Codicil to the Will, and by Jonathan Kinney, Roger W. Hammond and Maria L. Hammond, witnesses to the last Codicil. Letters Testamentary were granted to John A. LeBaron, the surviving Executor therein named.

 

John A. LeBaron, of Rochester, was granted Administration with the Will annexed of the Estate of Lemuel LeBaron, late of Rochester, Clerk, on 31 May 1837, with Newton Southworth and Israel Hammond, both of Rochester, as sureties.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Revd Lemuel LeBaron, late of Rochester, was appraised by Seth Freeman, Amittai B. Hammond, and Allen Dexter on 29 June 1837, his real estate totaled $5770, and his personal estate totaled $4229.37. John A. LeBaron, the Executor, gave his oath to the will on 8 Nov. 1837.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 79, pp. 177-180, 474, from FHL microfilm #0555265, and Vol. 1G, p. 37.

 

 

Will of Benjamin Leonard of Middleborough, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1801) *

In the Name of God Amen.—I Benjamin Leonard of Middleborough in the County of Plymouth & Comonwealth of Massachusetts Gentleman—conceiving myself at present to be of a sound & disposing mind, and retaining the full exercise of my rational facilities but much out of health, and apprehensive that my soul & body may soon be seperated by death; to make, ordain, promulge & declare the following disposition & directions to be my last will & testament respecting the goods & estate of which I may die seized and possessed—

        Imprimis.—My will is, that my body, after my decease, be decently interred in the manner of of a Christian burial under the directions of my Executors herein after named—

Item—my will is, that, after all my just debts & funeral charges & the legacies & bequests herein after made & directed, be paid and satisfied, the residue of all my real & personal estate subject to the legal claims of dower of my present well beloved wife, be equally divided among my five sons Following—viz.—Andrew, Abner, George, Benjamin & Zebedee. And whereas I have heretofore made deeds (which are not fully executed) of some part of my real estate to my sd sons Abner & George, my wish is that said deeds be given up & destroyed & that no reference be had to them in ye division aforesaid, but in case said deeds, shall not be so destroyed, my will is that the estate conveyed by said deeds be appraised with my other estate, and adequate deductions be made from the shares of those two sons, so that they take, equal shares with my other sons, But I hereby direct that, in the aforesaid division of my estate, no reference be had to a deed I have executed to my son Andrew of one eighth part of the New works Forge, but that he take an equal share in said division with my other sons aforesaid, notwithstanding—

Item—I Give & bequeath to my three grand children, Daniel Leonard - Polly Leonard, & Clarinda Leonard, the children of my late son Daniel Leonard deceased ten dollars, to be equally divided between them, which sum together with the several sums of money I have heretofore advanced to, and paid for my sd son deceased, will amount to a sum, in my opinion, equal to the value of my other sons, respective shares in my sd estate, my will therefore is that the heirs of my sd deceased son take in the distribution of my estate nothing more than the sum of ten dollars aforesaid, to be paid to them by my Executors—

Item—I give and bequeath to my Daughter Olive the wife of Luther Murdock, the sum of one Hundred Dollars, in addition to what I have already advanced to her in fitting out for house keeping—

Item—I Give and bequeath to my Daughter Hannah, the sum of two hundred & fifty dollars this with the last preceeding legacy, to be paid by my Executors to the respective legatees immediately after my said Daughter Hannah shall arrive at the age of eighteen years—And I direct & expect that my well beloved wife aforesaid be endowed of all my estate both real & personal according to the law in ye behalf provided.—And I do hereby constitute, ordain & appoint my two sons Andrew & Abner aforesaid, joint Executors of this my last will & testament.—Thus recomending my soul to God who gave it, and my body to the dust, whence it is derived, I do hereto set my hand & seal this ninth day of August in the year Eighteen Hundred & one.~

Signed, Sealed, Published &                                                                                                             his

Declared, in presence of us—                                                                                           Benjamin  X   Leonard                       (seal)

        Wilkes Wood                                                                                                                               mark

        Joseph Clarke

        Stephen B. Pickens

 

Presented for probate on 9 Nov. 1801 by Andrew Leonard & Abner Leonard, the Exors therein named, and proved by Wilkes Wood & Joseph Clarke, two of the witnesses.

 

George Leonard, Gentleman, Eliphalet Ellmes & Ephraim Leonard, yeomen, appraised the inventory of the estate of Benjamin Leonard, late of Middleborough, but the page it was recorded on has been heavily damaged, and the total is unreadable. Andrew Leonard & Abner Leonard, the Executors, gave their oath to the inventory on 28 Jan. 1802.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 37, pp. 510-511, 551-552, from FHL microfilm #0550719.

 

 

Will of David Leonard of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1809) *

In the Name of God amen. I David Leonard of Bridgwater in the County of Plymouth being advanced in Years but of sound & perfect mind & memory considering the uncertainty of this mortal Life think it my Duty to make my last Will & Testament in manner & form as follows viz

        First. I will & direct that all my honest Debts be paid out of my Estate by my Executor hereafter named —

        Second. I give & bequeath to my beloved Wife Molly Leonard (if she should outlive me) the Improvement of one third of my Estate while she remains by Widow, & also I give to her all the indoor moveables to be entirely at her Disposal. —

        Third. I give to my Son David ten Dollars. —

        Fourth. I give to my Son Zenas one hundred & eighty Dollars. —

        Fifth. I give to my Daughter Polly one hundred Dollars. —

        Sixth. I bequeath to my Son Barnum four hundred Dollars. —

        Seventh. I give to my Daughter Olive one hundred Dollars. —

        Eighth. I bequeath to my Son Linus five hundred Dollars. —

        Ninth I give to my Daughter Sally three hundred Dollars. —

        Tenth. I bequeath to my Daughter Fanny three hundred Dollars. —

        Eleventh. I give to my Son George Washington five hundred Dollars. —

        Twelfth I bequeath to my Son James Manning five hundred Dollars. —

        Thirteenth. I give to my Son Charles Frederick five hundred Dollars. —

the above Legacies I direct my Executor to pay within one Year after my Decease if they are not paid before.—

        Fourteenth I give & bequeath unto my Son Caleb all my Estate both Real & personal which is not given or disposed of in the above Bequests, whom I appoint sole Executor of this my last will & Testament, directing him punctually to execute the same.—

        In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand & Seal this thirty first day of August in the Year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred & nine. —

Signed, sealed, published, & declared, by the above named

David Leonard to be his last Will & Testament in the

Presence of us who at his request & in his presence                                                     David Leonard                 (seal)

have hereunto subscribed our Names as Witnesses –

        Joseph Bassett 2d.

        Eliphalet Leach

        Nathan Bassett

 

The Will of David Leonard, late of Bridgwater, Gentleman, was presented for probate by Caleb Leonard, the Executor, on 3 Jan. 1814, and proved by Joseph Bassett 2d. and Nathan Bassett, two of the witnesses.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 45, p. 207-208, from FHL microfilm #0550903.

 

 

Will of Hannah Leonard of Middleborough, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1827) *

Be it remembered that I Hannah Leonard of Middleboro’ & County of Plymouth Widow Woman considering the uncertainty of this mortal life & being of sound mind and memory do make this, and publish it, as my last Will & Testament, in manner & form following, that is to say, First I give to my Daughter Hannah Jackson, Ten dollars to be paid her in money in one year after my decease by my Executor hereafter named. I also give one dollar & fifty cents to each of my two sons namely Andrew Leonard & George Leonard to be paid to them one year after my decease. I also give one dollar & fifty cents to each of my son Daniel Leonard’s children that may be alive at the time of my decease, to be paid them one year after, as aforesaid. And the remaining part of my money, that is, three fifths of it to be equally divided between my three sons, viz. Abner Leonard, Benjamin Leonard & Zebedee Leonard, and the other two fifths to be equally divided among the children of my son George Leonard, & the three daughters of my son Andrew Leonard that may be living at the time of my decease, that is one fifth to the children of George as aforesaid, and the other fifth to the daughters of Andrew as aforesaid. I also give and bequeath to my granddaughter Clarinda Leonard the daughter of my son Zebedee Leonard my Gold necklace, I do further give and bequeath to my daughter Hannah Jackson my Gold Locket, weaving loom, warping bars and all therewith belonging, and also my side-saddle. I give and bequeath to my Granddaughter Sarah P Leonard the daughter of my son Abner Leonard my looking Glass. I hereby give all my Wearing Apparel not heretofore disposed of to be equally divided between my two daughters, and daughter in law, namely Olive Murdock Hannah Jackson and Martha Leonard the wife of Abner Leonard, and lastly, as to all the rest of my property of every description I give to my five sons to be equally divided, namely, Andrew, Abner, George, Benjamin & Zebedee Leonard, And I do hereby appoint my son Abner Leonard sole Executor of this my last Will and Testament, In witness whereof I hereunto set my hand and seal this thirteenth day of December, in the year of our Lord One thousand eight hundred & twenty seven –

                Signed sealed published and declared by the abovenamed Hannah Leonard to be her last Will & Testament in the presence of us who have hereunto subscribed our names as witnesses, in the presence of the testator –                                                                           Hannah Leonard                             (seal)

Seth Eaton

Cyrus White

Benja. White

 

Probated on 5 May 1829, and proved by Seth Eaton, one of the witnesses. Abner Leonard was granted Letters Testamentary on 5 May 1829.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Hannah Leonard, late of Middleborough, Widow, was appraised by Seth Eaton, Barnabas Eaton, and Ziba Eaton on 23 May 1829, and totaled $613.07, including $567.62 in Notes of Hand. Abner Leonard, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 4 Aug. 1829.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 67, pp. 1-2, 432, from FHL microfilm #0555259.

 

 

Will of Jacob Leonard of Bridgewater, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1716) *

I Jacob Leonard of Bridgwater in the County of Plymouth in New England Husbandman being very Sick & weak of body but of perfect mind & memory thanks be to God for the same Calling unto mind the mortality of my body & knowing that it is appointed for all men living once to dye do make & Ordain this my last Will and Testament That is to say, principally and first of all I Give and recomend my Soul into the hands of God that gave it, and for my body I recomend it to the Earth to be buried in a Christian like and decent manner at the discretion of my executors—nothing doubting but at the Generall resurection I shall receive the Same again by the mighty power of God. And as Touching Such worldly Estate wherewith it hath pleased God to bless me with in this life I give devise & dispose of the Same in the following manner & form. Imprs I give and bequeath unto my two Eldest daughters Abigail Washbourne & Susanna Hill a Certain tract of Land that I have now in the Township of Woster being my whole Eight there more or less. Item I Give and bequeath equally to be divided between my two abovesd daughters Abigail Washbourn & Susanah Hill. Item I Give and bequeath unto my three younger daughters, that is to say Experience Leonard Mary Leonard & Sarah Leonard all my moveables to be by them possesed at their mothers decease and not before equally to be then divided amongst them.—

Item I give unto my two Sons Solomon Leonard and Jacob Leonard and their Assignes all my Lands in the Town of Bridgwater equally to be divided betwixt them and my Son Solomon to have the first Choice, provided that they do each of them Joyntly together Afford and provide an Comfortable and Sutable maintenance for my present wife Susanna Leonard their mother dureing her natural life, and if failure be made thereof then my Will is that my Said Wife Shall have an Improvement of the thirds part of this Estate dureing her natural life. Item I Constitute and appoint my well beloved Son Solomon Leonard Sole executor of this my last will & Testament.† In Wittness and Confirmation hereof I have Set to my hand and Seal this fourteenth day of December in the Year of our Lord One Thousand Seven hundread & Sixteen.

memorandum that the begining of the Sixteenth Line was Eased out before signing and Sealing, and that the word (equally) was added to line 21 before Signing & Sealing; & namd & their assign. were Interlined before Signing and Sealing                                                                             his

                                                                                                                                                                Jacob J Leonard

† and do hereby utterly disalow & revoke & disanull                                                                           mark

all former Wills ratifying & Confirming this as my

last Will & Testament

 

Signed Sealed, published and pronounced and declared

by the abovesd Jacob Leonard to be his last Will &

Testament in the presence of us the Subscribers             her

Nathaniel Woodward                                          Elisabeth  +  Woodward

Ephraim Leonard                                                                  mark

 

Probated on 19 Dec. 1717, and proved by Nathaniel Woodward and Ephraim Leonard.

 

The inventory of the Estate of Jacob Leonard, late of Bridgwater, was taken on 9 Sept. 1717 by Josiah Edson, Samuel Washbourn, and Eliezer Carver, and totaled £85.7.6.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 4, p. 31-33, from FHL microfilm #0550510.

 

 

Will of James M. Leonard of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1875) *

Be it remembered that I James M. Leonard of Bridgewater in the County of Plymouth and Commonwealth of Massachusetts, being desirous while in the enjoyment of health and reason, of directing the disposition of my worldly estate after my decease, do hereby make and publish this my last Will and Testament as follows to wit.

First. To each of my seven children viz. to my eldest daughter Emma Frances, to my second daughter Elizabeth Morton wife of Freeman D. Childs of Iowa, to my third daughter Mary Hall to my fourth daughter Clara Farnam, to my son James Henry, to my fifth daughter Edith, and to my youngest daughter Caroline Louisa, I give and bequeath to each of them as aforesaid the sum of Ten Hundred Dollars, And I request my Executrix hereinafter named to pay said sums as soon as may be convenient after the proof of this will, Provided however that there shall be deducted from the aforesaid sums of One Thousand Dollars given to each of my children respectively, such amounts as I have already given to any of them, and such further amounts as I may give to any or each of them before my decease, so that each child shall share alike, but without reckoning interest on any such gifts already made or that may hereafter be made.

Second. All the rest and residue of my property and estate both real and personal of every name and nature and wheresoever situated, after my debts are paid, I give devise and bequeath to my beloved wife Jane N. Leonard, to have and to hold to her and her heirs and assigns forever, Having full confidence that my wife will use and dispose of said property judiciously and with a proper regard to the rights and interests of our children.

And it is my wish that my said wife, whom I hereby appoint Executrix of this Will, be required to give bond only to pay debts and legacies, and that she be not required to return an inventory.

        In witness whereof I hereto set my hand and seal this twenty seventh day of April eighteen hundred and seventy five.

                                                                                                                                                James M. Leonard                          (seal)

Signed, sealed, published and declared by the above named James M. Leonard, as and for his last Will and Testament in the presence of us, who at his request, in his presence and in the presence of each other, have hereto Set our names as attesting witnesses.

                                                                James H. Dean

                                                                Albert Pitts

                                                                Geo. W. Andros

 

Jane N. Leonard, of Bridgewater, was granted Letters Testamentary on the estate of James M. Leonard, late of Bridgewater, on 24 Jan. 1881, with Philander Leach and Stillman O. Keith, both of Bridgewater, as sureties.

No inventory of the estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 143, p. 521-522, Vol. 134, p. 202.

 

 

Will and Codicils of John Leonard of Raynham, Bristol County, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1732) *

In the Name of God Amen The Tenth day of June annoq Dom 1732 Annoq RRS Georgis Secundi Quint I John Leonard of Raynham in ye County of Bristol in New Engld Yeoman being of Sound & Disposeing Mind and memory (Tho’ under many Infirmities of body), And Knowing that it is appointed for all men Once to dy, do make and ordain this to be my last will and Testamt. principally and first of all I Give & Recomend my Soule into ye. hands of God yt Gave it hoping for the pardon of my sins in & thro’ Jesus Christ my only Savior & redemer & my Body, I Committ to ye dust to be Decently buryed by my Executors hereafter named in hopes of a Joyfull resurection. And as Touching Such Estate as it has pleased God to bless me with I Give and dispose of ye Same as follows

Imprs I Give unto my Son John Leonard the house I helped build for him and Twenty Acres of Land be it more or less being part of my homestead where I now dwell bound as Beging at a Corner of my homestead adjoining to Benjamin Halls land near ye bridge & followed by the Rhoad or High way till it Comes to ye [ ? ] leading along between my homestead & [torn] John King homestead (towards ye Neck [ ? ]) & so bounded by ye [torn] Called Shaws land & from thence Bounded by Shaws land till it Comes to the land I bought of Jona. Williams. And from thence bounded by the west side of that land till it Comes to ye Way leading from my house towards ye Neck place & from thence bounded by yt. way to an Enclosier on the East side of my Barn & so bounded Easterly and southerly by that Enclos till it Comes to where their was an old fence between my Improvd land & ye land my Son John Cleared & so bounded by the range where ye old fence stood untill it Comes against a hill or high peice of Ground & then Turning a square so as to Include ye orchard behind my son Johns house the & from there Runing a straight line Near West to ye bow of the hill on ye Weserly side of the brook & from thence Turning & runing to Benjm. Halls fence & by his fence bounded to ye place first Mentioned: And also I Give my son John the Priviledge and Improvement of the Three Quarters of a share of Ceder Swamp I bought of Nathl Williams to Cut Stuff to be used Abt his building & Upon the land I here Give him; And also I Give him Priviledge of fire wood & fencing Stuff on any of my land, to be usd in his house & upon his farm if he shall have Ocation for it: And Whereas My Son John is at present Deprived of his Natural Sences and reason it is my will that My Executors see yt his Estate here Give him shall be Improved for his Best advantage & Comfort & prosscute Such as shall Trespass upon his lands & Interest I have Given him during the Time he shall remain not in a Capacity to do it him self, the penellty recovered if any be to be for his use & My will is yt. he shall not sell his land with out ye. Advice & Consent of my Executors And if both my Executors dye, before my son John Its my will & desire that ye Select men of Raynham take Care yt. his Estate be Secured and Managed for his best Advantage ~ during the Time of his remaining Not in a Capacity to do it himself. And if my Son John Dyes without Issue its my will that all the Land here Given him Shall Belong to my Sons Phillip Leonard & Josiah Leonard & their heirs

Item. I Give and Bequeath to my Son Thomas Leonard his heirs and assigns for Ever; Ten acres of land layd out to & is apart of the Homestead where he now dwells; And also Ten Acres of land I bought of David Briggs & the peice of land [torn] [ ? ] Committee & the four Acre or there Abouts of land took upon Division lying to ye South ward of James Halls way So Called all which lands last mentioned are lying not far from where my Son Thomas Now lives: lying partly upon Fareall plain & partly upon my Son Thomases Land; And Also, I Give my sd Son Thomas & his heirs the three quarters of a Share of Ceder Swamp (I bought of Nathl. Williams): from and after my son Johns Decease And also I Give my Son Thomas & his heirs One half of my Part of ye Ceder Swamp Called the Burnt Ground & one third part of my Intrest in my fathers Silver hilted Sword & one third part of my Armes My Son Thomas or his heirs Executors or admrs paying to my Daughter Judith or her Legall Representatives the Sum of Twenty pounds or the Value thereof in province bills

Item I Give and Bequeath to my Sons Phillip Leonard and Josiah Leonard & their heirs & assigns: all the remaining part of My homestead Dwelling house Barn and all other of my Lands Rights Purchase rights Intrest in Lands & Ceder Swamps (not before Disposed of) to be Equally divided Between them and their heirs; Only its to be under stood that my Son Phillip shall have My [ ? ] Share in Taunton Grate Ceder Swamp So Called & my Son Josiah my share of Ceder Swamp in the North purchase which two shares of Ceder Swamp are not to be brought into ye division of the other lands & Real Estate given them And Further its my will that if Either of my two sons last Mentioned dye: without Issue or before they have divided the Estate I have here Given them: that the Survivor of them & his heirs shall have and Enjoy the Whole of it Also I Give my said sons Phillip & Josiah & their heirs All My Indore & out door Movebles Stock of Creatures & debts due to Me Comprehending all my Personl Estate of What Nature or Kind so Ever: And; Further its to be Under stood I Except & reserve twelve Rods of land in my homestead Where my wife was Buryed: for aburying place for ye use of my Children & their family if they Se Cause

Item I Give and Bequeath To my Daughter Mary Who Marryed with John Barney Thirty pounds [torn] she has Already recd of me And to my daughter Judith I Give the Sum of Sixty pounds (Besides ye Twenty pounds I Order my Son Thomas to pay her & what She has already Recd of me) And to my Daughter Elizabeth who Marryed with Mesech Wilbore I Give the sum of Ten shillings besides what she has already recd. of me And to my Daughter Meheteble I Give the Sum of Eighty pounds All Which Legacys last Mentioned I Order my Sons Phillip & Josiah to pay to my said daughters Or their Legall representatives in Money; Cattle or household Goods in Value to province bills as they now pass: both the said payments to be Made by them or their heirs Execrs Admrs. within two years after my Decease ~

And also my will is that My Execrs pay all my debts and Funeral Charges. ~ Finally I Constitute and Appoint my Sons Phillip and Josiah Executors of this my last will and Testament. Hereby allowing And holding this and No Other To be my Last will and Testmt. to be and Remain firm & Inviolable for Ever. In Witness that this Is my last Will and Testamt I have Caused my hand and Seal to be hereto affixed the date first mention.

Signed & Sealed // Published pronounced

& declared by the sd. John Leonard To

be his last will & Testamt in presence

of us = ye sd will being being first Read

to him in our presence & hearing                                                                                     John Leonard                    (seal)

Elkanah Leonard

Simeon Leonard

David Sears

 

Whereas in my forgoing will there is a Little Pasture Lying by my Barn Containing more than one Acre & under two Acres yt. is Included in the bounds of the Land Given in Said will to my Son John: its my will that my sons Phillip Leonard & Josiah Leonard shall hold & Enjoy sd. Pasture in Such manner as [ ? ] their other lands Given them in sd Will [ ? ] Thomas to have Privilege of having his Creatures be the Commons on my Purchase Right. Till the lands are Layd out hereby Confirming my sd. will and this as a part of it as witness my hand & Seal February 26. 1733 –

                                                                                                                                                John Leonard                    (seal)

Witnesses

     Elkanah Leonard                                                                                                           ye above Signing was

     John [ ? ]                                                                                                                          writt by John Leonard

     George Williamson sener

 

Whereas in my Above written Last will and Testament I have ordered my Son Thomas to pay to my Daughter Judith Twenty Pounds, it is my will for Reasons which I shall not mention that he pay the Same to my Daughter Mehetabel in Province bills as Mentioned in my will. And further it is my will that if my Daughter Judith dye without Issue that the Sixty Pounds which I have willed to her Remain in the hands of my Executors as their Proper Estate, here by Confirming my Last will and this as apart of it, as Witness my hand and Seal this 13th Day of August 1743

Witnesses.

     Samuel Leonard

     John [ ? ]

     Samuel Leonard Junr.

                                                                                                                                                John Leonard                    (seal)

 

Where as I John Leonard of Rainham in the County of Bristoll in the Province of the Massachusetts Bay in New England being now in the Eighty first year of my age and of a sound desposing mind and memory Blessed be God for it and now Caling to mind that on the tenth day of June 1732 I made my Last will and testement which is dated on that day afore sd and sence that on the 26th day of february 1733 I Anexed a Codesell to the a fore said will and on the 13th day of August 1743 I made a second Codesell to the afore said will now this being the third Codicell which I and do make to the afore said will and shall be acounted as Part and Parsell – there of is as followeth –

first that my said two sons Phillip and Josiah theyr heyrs and assigns shall have and Pcebelly and quietly Injoy and Improve the Litell Paster near my House as mentioned in the first above sd Codisell not with standing it was mentioned in the a fore sd will to be Given to my sone John Leonard –

Secondly that My sd sone Phillip Leonard and his heyrs and assigns shall have and Injoy the westerly Part of my now dwelling house which is the newest Part there of and my sone Josiah Leonard his heyrs and assigns shall have and Injoy the Easterly Part of my now dwelling house which is the old Part thare of not with standing what I have said in the a fore sd will in Giving of it Joyntly to them Both –

thirdly it is my will that in the deviding of the Lands which I have Given to my sd Sons Philip and Josiah my said sone Phillip shall have all the Land that he hath Cleard and labored already and that it shall be acounted to him only as so much wild Land as it was Before he Cleared it –

fourthly My will is that my daughter Mehitabell Jones shall have free Liberty to Live in my now dwelling House with her Above sd Brother Phillip and Josiah and to have one Cow Kept on my home farme by my said two Sons as Long as till she shall dey or Marey againe –

and whare as in the second Codicell which I made to the a fore said will I ordered that the twenty Pounds which was to be Paid to my daughter Judith: I thare ordered it to be Paid to my daughter Mehitabell my mind and will is that she my sd daughter Mehitabell shall have it Paid to her by my sone Thomas Leonard and I also further order and will that my said two Sons Phillep Leonard and Josiah Leonard shall Pay unto my said daughter mehitabell a further sume of forty Pounds old tenner in two years after my decease the mony to be acounted as Good as it tis this day –

and I further will and order My said two sons Phillep Leonard and Josiah Leonard to Pay unto my daughter mary Barney the wife of John Barney the sum of thirty Pounds old tenner to be Paid to her in two years – after my decease and to be acounted as Good as money is at this day –

and I further will and order my said two sons Phillip Leonard and Josiah Leonard shall Pay unto My daughter Elizebeth wilbore the wife of Meshech wilbore thirty Pounds old tenner they to Pay it to her in her owne Person in things that she shall Most stand in need of and her Receipt for it to be a full discharge for them here by Confirming the a fore mentioned will and the two Codecills before mentioned as they are annexed and Explained by this Codicell to My Last will and Testament as witness My Hand and Seall this twenty fourth day of August in ye twenty second year of his Majesties Reigne George the Second King &c annoq domini 1748

signed sealed Published Pronounced

and declared by John Leonard

to be a Part and Parsell of

his Last will and testament

in Presence of

· Samuel Leonard

· James Presho                                                                                                                     John Leonard                    (seal)

Esther ~ Partridge

 

                                Bristol Sc Taunton March ye 7th 1748

Then Before The Honole George Leonard Esqr Judge of the Probate of Wills &c within The County of Bristol Came Simion Leonard and David Sears Two of the Witnesses of the Last Will and Testament of mr John Leonard Late of Raynham Deceased; and made Oath that they were Present and Did See and hear the said Deceased Signe Seal Publish and Declare the Within Written Instrument To be his Last Will and Testament and that he Was of A Sound Disposing mind when So Did and that Elkanah Leonard Signed as Witness at the Same Time and that they all Signed In the Presence of The Testator

                                                                                                                                                George Leonard

Stephen Paine Register

                Bristol Sc March ye 22d 1748

     Entered In the Eleventh Book of Wills follio #19:650

                                                Stephen Paine Register

 

                                Bristol Sc March ye 7th 1748

Then Before The Honole George Leonard Esqr Judge of the Probate of Wills &c Within the County of Bristol Came Samuel Leonard Eqr and James Presho Two of the Wittnesses To the Above Written Codecle and made Oath that they heard and saw mr John Leonard Late of Raynham Deceased: Signe Seal Publish and Declare the same to be Part and Percel of his Last Will and Testament and That he Was of A Sound Disposing Mind, and Memory When he so Did and that Esther Partridge the other Witness Signed With them all the Same Time and that they all Signed In the Presence of The Testator

                                                                                                                                                George Leonard

                Stephen Paine Register

March 7th 1848/9 Samuel Leonard and James Presho sworn by G Leonard

 

Meshach Wilbore requested a delay in the probate of the estate of John Leonard, late of Raynham, on 7 Mar. 1748.

Thomas Leonard requested a delay in the probate of the estate of John Leonard, late of Raynham, on 7 Mar. 1748.

John Barney and Meshack Wilbore, two of the sons in law to John Leonard, late of Raynham, protested that John Leonard was incapable of making his last will and testament when the same and several codicils were executed on 17 Mar. 1748.

 

John White, Timothy Jones and Nathan Jones appraised the estate of John Leonard, late of Raynham, on 30 May 1749, and it totaled £743.16.10 Old Tenor.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Bristol County Probate File “John Leonard, Raynham, 1748,” and “John Leonard, Raynham, 1749,” online at www.AmericanAncestors.org.

 

 

Will of Joseph Leonard of Middleborough, Plymouth County, Massachusetts Bay (1783) *

        In the name of God Amen—I Joseph Leonard of Middleborough in the County of Plymouth, being in health, and of sound mind and memory, but considering the uncertainty of life, through Gods goodness, do make this my Last will & testament, my Soul I resign to God in hopes of his mercy in & through Christ, my body to the earth to be decently buryed by my Executor, believing that I shall recieve the same body again at the resurrection, by the mighty power of God, and my worldly Estate I dispose of as followeth

1 – To my beloved wife Huldah Leonard I give the improvement of one third part of my real Estate, & one third part of my moveable Estate

2 – To my Son Joseph Leonard I have given, to the value of Fifty pounds Lawful money, and my right in the Delaware purchase, which I purchased of Elder Isaac Backus, and over and above I give to him Fifty pounds Lawful money to be paid to him by my son Silas Leonard, to him, to his heirs & assigns forever

3 – I Give to my Son Silas Leonard, half of my Lands in said Middleborough, ordering him to pay to said Joseph Fifty pounds Lawful money, and to pay to my Daughter Elisabeth Leonard Forty two pounds Lawful money, and to my Daughter Lucy Leonard forty two pounds Lawful money, the said Land I give to him & to his heirs & assigns forever

4 – To my son Jonathan Leonard I give the one half of all my Lands in said Middlebo., together with my houses thereon, with my Right in the grist mill and all my moveable or personal Estate, ordering him to pay to Mary Leonard forty two pounds Lawful money, and to Huldah Rickard forty two pounds Lawful money, the said Lands & houses and all as above mentioned, I give to him and to his heirs and assigns forever. NB it is understood that the said Eighty four pounds Lawful money, to be paid to the said Mary & Huldah is the consideration mentioned in the deed to said Jonathan

5 – To my Daughter Mary Leonard I give forty two pounds Lawful money and

6 – I Give to my Daughter Huldah Rickard forty two pounds Lawful money ordering my said son Jonathan to pay the same to them, all which I give to them and their heirs forever

7 – I appoint my said son Jonathan, to be sole Executor of this my Last will and testament. In witness hereof, I have hereunto set my hand & seal this 10th day of February anno Domini 1783 ~

Signed Sealed & declared to be his Last                                                                         Joseph Leonard                                (seal)

Will & testament in presence of

Stephen Richmond

Edmund Williams

              her

Hannah  X  Richmond

             mark

 

Presented for probate on 25 Oct. 1793 by Jonathan Leonard, the Executor therein named, and proved by Stephen Richmond and Hannah Richmond, two of the witnesses.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 33, p. 456-457, from FHL microfilm #0550717.

 

 

Will of Simeon Leonard of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1854) *

                In the name of God, Amen. I Simeon Leonard of Bridgewater, in the County of Plymouth and Commonwealth of Massachusetts, being of sound, disposing mind and memory, do hereby make, ordain and declare this my last Will and Testament as follows, viz:

                After the payment of all my just debts and charges, I give and bequeath unto my beloved wife Boadicea Leonard, all my Estate, Real, Personal, or mixed, wheresoever the same may be situated, to have and to hold the same to her the said Boadicea, and to her heirs and assigns forever.

                In making this disposition of my Estate I desire it to be distinctly understood, that it is not from forgetfulness, or the want of parental affection and regard for my children that I have made no bequests to them but from the belief that their mother who has participated with me in all the vicissitudes of life will do equal justice to them, should there be more than may be necessary for her support.

                I hereby constitute and appoint the said Boadicea Leonard, sole Executrix of this my last Will & Testament.

                In witness whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and seal this fifteenth day of July, one thousand eight hundred and fifty four.

                                                                                                                                                Simeon Leonard                               (seal)

                Signed, sealed, published and declared by the said Simeon Leonard to be his last Will and Testament; in the presence of us, who in his presence and at his request have signed the same as Witnesses.

                                                                                                                                                Aretmas Hale

                                                                                                                                                Caleb Hobart

                                                                                                                                                James C. Alden

 

Presented for probate on the first Tuesday of July 1857 by Boadicea Leonard, the Executrix therein named, and proved by Artemas Hale and James E. Alden, the witnesses.

 

Boadicea Leonard, of Bridgewater, was granted Letters Testamentary on the estate of Simeon Leonard, late of Bridgewater, with Artemas Hale and Robert Perkins, both of Bridgewater, as sureties, on 7 July 1857.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 99, p. 305-306, from FHL microfilm #0555644, and Vol. 21, p. 80.

 

 

Will of Solomon Leonard of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1846) *

                                                                In the name of God, Amen, I Solomon Leonard of Bridgewater in the County of Plymouth being advanced in years and suffering under some indisposition of body but through the blessing of God, being of sound mind and memory do this twenty third day of April in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and forty six, make and constitute this my last will and testament in manner and form as follows, that is to say.

                I give and bequeath unto my beloved Wife Huldah the improvement of all my real estate during her life, after my debts being paid out of the same. Also I give unto her for her disposal one hundred and fifty dollars to be paid her after my decease and I give to her all of my household furniture of every kind which is at her disposal.

                I also give and bequeath unto my daughter Betsey Harlow all of the improvement of my real estate during her life.

                I give and bequeath unto my grandson Isaac Harlow ten dollars to be paid at the decease of his mother. And I also give and bequeath unto my grandchildren Solomon L. Harlow  Louisa, Huldah, Isaac, Lavinia, Franklin, Elizabeth, Joseph children of Bradford Harlow, the eight-last named grandchildren to receive equal shares in all of my estate both real and personal at the decease of my daughter.

                And I do now constitute ordain and appoint my son in law, Bradford Harlow sole Executor of this my last Will and testament.

                                                                                                                                                Solomon Leonard                            (seal)

In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal the day and year first mentioned. Signed sealed and published and declared by the testator as his last will and testament in the presence of us who in his presence and in presence of each other have hereunto set our hands as witnesses at his request

                                                                                                                                                Solomon Hayward

                                                                                                                                                Abigail Wing

                                                                                                                                                Ebenezer Pratt

 

Middleborough Dec 1st 1852. We the subscribers heirs and devisees to Solomon Leonard, testator of the foregoing will, having examined the same have no objections to said Will’s passing Probate.

                Huldah L. Pierce                                                                  Bradford Harlow

                Joseph T. Harlow                                                                 Betsey Harlow

                Isaac Harlow                                                                        Lavinia W. Harlow

                Elizabeth B. Harlow                                                            Louisa Harlow

                                                                                                                Solomon L. Harlow

 

Presented for probate on the second Monday of January 1853 by Bradford Harlow, the Executor therein named, and proved by Solomon Hayward, one of the witnesses.

 

Bradford Harlow, of Middleboro, was granted Letters Testamentary on the estate of Solomon Leonard, of Bridgewater, on 10 Jan. 1853, with Isaac Harlow, of Middleboro, and Ephraim B. Thompson, of Halifax, as sureties.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 95, p. 1-2, from FHL microfilm #0555642, and Vol. 2H, p. 345.

 

 

Will of Thomas F. Leonard of Middleborough, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1846) *

                Be it remembered, that I, Thomas F. Leonard of Middleborough, in the County of Plymouth, do on this thirty-first day of August, in the year eighteen hundred and forty-six, make and publish this my last will and testament, in manner following.

                1st. In the first place I give to my son Frederick Leonard, his heirs and assigns forever, five shares which I own in the United Corporation of the Middleborough Rail Road, the Fall River Branch Rail Road, and the Randolph and Bridgewater Rail Road, Corporations, also all my live stock and farming tools with all the articles in my cellar, also all the provisions I may have on hand at the time of my decease also all the grain, hay, Carts, wagons, carriages and harnesses. Also two thirds of all my household furniture and indoor moveables.

                2d. In the second place, I give to my Son Holder Leonard One thousand dollars to be paid him by my executors hereafter named, in six months after my decease, or at any other time when called for by my said son Holder.

                3d. In the third place I give to my son Elkanah Leonard one thousand dollars, to be paid him by my executors hereafter named, in six months after my decease, or at any other time when called for by my said son Elkanah.

                4th. In the fourth place, I give to my son Orville Leonard, one thousand dollars, to be paid him by my executors hereafter named, in six months after my decease, or at any other time when called for by my said son Orvill.

                5th. In the fifth place I give to my daughter Sally Cole, wife of Samuel Cole, Eight hundred dollars, besides what I have already given her, to be paid by my executors hereafter named, in six months after my decease.

                6th. In the sixth place I give to my daughter Charity H. Mercy, wife of Joseph Mercy, Seven hundred and twenty dollars in cash, to be paid by my executors hereafter named in six months after my decease, and also a note against Capt. John Morton, note dated June 19, 1838, for fifty nine dollars and seventy two cents, and is now in the hands of the said Joseph Mercy for collection. This in addition to what I have already given her.

                7th. In the seventh place, I give to my daughter Harriet Andrews, wife of Manasseh Andrews, Eight hundred dollars besides what I have already given her, to be paid her in six months after my decease, by my executors hereafter named.

                8th. In the eighth place I give to my daughter Fidelia Howland, wife of Luther Howland, eight hundred dollars besides what I have already given her, to be paid by my executors hereafter named, in six months after my decease.

                9th. In the 9th place I give to my daughter Julia Stetson, wife of Abner Stetson, eight hundred dollars, and also one third part of all my indoor moveables or household furniture, to be paid her in six months after my decease, by my executors hereafter named. This to be in addition to what I have already given her.

                My will is that the burying ground of about sixty rods near Mr. Thomas P. Tinkhams be reserved for a family burying place.

                All the rest and residue of my real and personal estate, I give to my two sons, viz: Tisdale Leonard, and Frederick Leonard, whom I hereby appoint executors of this my last will and testament, they equally paying all my just debts, and the legacies above named, and my funeral expenses and give me a decent burial.

                In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal, the day and year above written.

                                                                                                                                                Thomas F. Leonard                        (seal)

                Signed, sealed, and published by the said Thomas F. Leonard, declaring this to be his last will and testament, in presence of us who at his request were called as witnesses to the same, and in his presence and in the presence of each other did hereunto subscribe our names.

                                                                                                                                                Godfrey Robinson

                                                                                                                                                Joseph J. C. Leonard

                                                                                                                                                Armenia Maxam

 

Presented for probate on the first Monday of December 1847 by Tisdale Leonard and Frederick Leonard, the Executors therein named, and proved by Godfrey Robinson and Joseph J. C. Leonard, two of the witnesses.

 

Tisdale Leonard and Frederick Leonard, both of Middleborough, were granted Letters Testamentary on the estate of Thomas F. Leonard, on 6 Dec. 1847, with Godfrey Robinson, of Raynham, and Joseph J. C. Leonard, of Middleborough, as sureties.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 89, p. 546-548, from FHL microfilm #0555639, and Vol. 1G, p. 479.

 

 

Will of Constant Little of Marshfield, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1767) *

                                                In the Name of GOD, Amen.

This eighteenth day of November A.D. 1767. I Constant Little of Marshfield in the county of Plymouth Widdow, being in sound mind and memory, do make this my last will and testament. And first, I recommend my soul to GOD that gave it. And my body to the Earth to be decently buried at the discretion of my executors hereafter named, and touching such worldly estate as I am owner off, I dispose of the same as follows, viz.  Item, I give to my six sons hereafter-named Fobes Little, John Little, Ephraim Little, Thomas Little, William Little and Lemuel Little five shillings each in full for their right part or portion in this my last will & testament to be paid by my executors in one year after my decease. ~     Item, I give to my son Abijah White and my daughter Anna White his wife, and to my son Tobias Oakman and my daughter Ruth Oakman his wife, all the rest & residue of my estate not heretofore given away, and to their heirs forever.—

   Lastly, I nominate and apoint my two sons in Law Abijah White Esqr. & Tobias Oakman joint executors to this my last will & testament, and I hereby order them to pay the legacies herein given away, my just debts and funeral-charges. –

   In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal the day and year first written.

Signed sealed, published, pronounced & declared                                                        Constant Little                                  (seal)

by the said Constant Little to be her last will & testa-

ment, in presence of            David Lapham

                                                Thomas Sylvester

                                                Samuel Oakman

 

Presented for probate on 6 Aug. 1772 by Abijah White, one of the executors therein-named, (Tobias Oakman the other executor therein-named having renounced the executorship), and proved by David Lapham, Thomas Silvester and Samuel Oakman, the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Abijah White Esqr., the before-named executor.

 

The Inventory of the estate of Mrs. Constant Little, late of Marshfield, was appraised on 28 Aug. 1772 by David Lapham, Samuel Oakman, and Joseph Rogers, and totaled only £11.8.8, no real estate. The Executor gave his oath to the inventory on 28 Aug. 1772.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 21, p. 196-197, from FHL microfilm #0550712.

 

 

Will of Isaac Little of Plympton, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1755) *

In the Name of God Amen I Isaac Little of Plimton, being in alanguishing condition but of a sound mind, and expecting verry soon to Depart this life, Recommending my Soul to God thro’ Jesus Christ And my body to a Decent Christain Burial at the Discretion of my Execr or in his absence at the Discretion of my wife Hannah Little Do Dispose of my Temprole Estate as followeth vizt. –

I Give to my beloved wife Hannah Little all the Goods Chattles rights & Credits which she brought to me upon our Marriage, and the bed Bedsted and Coverlett belonging to me, now in the House where I Dwell in said Plimton in Liew of her Dower in my Estate

Item I give to my Daughter Sarah Little and to her heirs forever, One case of Draws & Chamber table, One bed stead Feather Bed & bolster, One Looking Glass, a black walnut table, a Brass Kittle A Small Iron pott, a Dish kittle Table, a meel Chist, a Cupbord One Iron Trammel, apair of pott hooks, three puter Dishes Seven puter plates three puter Basons, a large pair of handirons One Gallon Cason, and Eight Chairs

All the Rest and Residue of my Estate Real & personall, of what name or Nature Soever, I Give to my Son George Little & his Heirs and assigns forever with all Debts due & owing to me from any person or persons at my Death, upon Condition that he the sd. George do well and Trully pay and Discharge all Such sum & sums of money as I Justly owe to any person or persons whatsoever, and upon no Other Condition whatsoever, and Revoking all other wills by me heretofore made, and making my said Son George Sole Execr. of this My Will in Consideration thereof I have hereto Sett my hand & Seal the Twenty seventh day of May Annoque Domini, 1755

Signed Sealed & Delivered by          }                                                                              Isaac Little                                         (seal)

the said Isaac Little as his                  }

last Will in presence of us                  }

Thomas Mayhew               

Benja. Soule                         

James Hovey

 

Presented for probate on 17 July 1755 by the Executor therein named, and proved by Thos. Mayhew and James Hovey, the Will of Isaac Little late of Plimton, Saddler, was approved, and Administration granted to his Son George Little of Plimouth, Marriner, the Executor.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 13, p. 510-511, from FHL microfilm #0551540.

 

 

Will of John Little of Marshfield, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1764) *

                                                In the Name of God, Amen.

The fourteenth day of January A.D. 1764, I John Little of Marshfield in the county of Plimouth esquire, being in sound mind & memory do make this my last will & testament. First, I recommend my soul to God that gave it, and my body to the earth to be decently buried at the discretion of my executors hereafter-named, and touching such worldly estate as I am owner off, I dispose of the same as follows viz, ~

Imprimis, I give to my welbeloved wife Constant Little the use and improvement of the northerly end of my dwelling house, during her natural life with the privilege of the oven, to lay wood at the door, & fetch water out of the Well, and also two beds & the furniture belonging to them. And I order my executors to find her wood at the door sufficient for her use, and the use & improvement of the sixth part of my real estate during her natural life. and the sixth part of my personal estate after the debts & funeral charges are paid forever at her dispose, And furthermore it is my will that each of my six sons hereafternamed pay to their mother two pounds, ten shillings yearly & every year during her natural life, in full for her right of dower in my estate. ~

Item. I give to my son ~ Fobes Little his heirs & assigns forever all my real & personal estate in Little-Compton, and all my real estate in Rhode-island, Providence Plantation, and five pounds out of my personal estate to be paid by my executors in twelve months after my decease. ~

Item. I give to my son John Little his heirs & assigns forever, that farm, he now lives on in the county of Windham in the colony of Conneticut, & all the personal that I put thereon, & the woodlot that belongs to the same farm.

Item. I give to my son William Little his heirs & assigns forever, the farm which he now lives on which I bought of Samuel Cogswell & Samuel Cogswell Junr. & their wives lying partly in Lebanon & partly in Norwich, & all the personal estate I put thereon. ~

Item. I give to my daughter Anna White her heirs & assigns forever, the forty third lot in Marshfield first division being about twenty five acres, excepting the fence thereon, which I give to my son Ephraim Little, furthermore I give to my daughter Anna White my negro woman named Phillis, and fifty pounds the one half in money the other half in personal estate to be paid equally by my executors in twelve months after my decease, and all the houshold goods she hath already received. ~

Item. I give to my daughter Ruth Oakman her heirs & assigns forever, my woodlot being about sixteen acres lying between Joyce & Carver,s land, butting on the highway, calld. Rogers,s way or however otherwise bounded. and my negro-woman named Jenne & forty pounds personal estate, to be paid equally by my executors in twelve months after my decease, & one Yoke of oxen Tobias Oakman has of mine, with all the houshold goods She hath already received. ~

Item. I give to my son Ephraim Little his heirs & assigns forever the twelfth lot whereon his house now stands, also the thirteenth, fourteenth & fifteenth lots, also the seventh, eighth, & ninth lots, with the buildings thereon, and also the thirtieth, thirtyfirst & the thirtysecond lotts. And also The twentyfirst lot all lying in Marshfield in the first division, and a part of my homestead whereon I now dwell bounded as follows. Begining by the meadow of Job Winslow as the fence now stands a little to the north ward of a hombind tree, then running as the fence now stands to the highway, then turning south easterly by the way until it comes to the southermost corner of the field by the highway near the apple trees in the little hollow, then, then running northeasterly by the fence & row of stones in the same line until it comes to a row of bushes in the swamp, so followg. the row of bushes until it comes to the fence of Asa Thomas,s meadow, then running northwesterly by the meadow-fence as it now stands to the bounds firstmentioned, and five acres of salt marsh I bought of David Thomas, and one third part of all my salt meadow in Marshfield excepting what belongs to Norcut,s farm, & also a small piece by the Landing-place. And furthermore I give him one half of Stephen,s-island, and one half of the meadow belonging thereto, and my silver hilted sword, & one half of my wearing apparel. ~

Item. I give to my son Thomas Little his heirs & assigns forever the farm he now lives on called Norcut,s farm with all the buildings & fences thereon and all the meadow belonging to said farm, and the one half of Booth,s lot & the one half of the additions to Little-town-brook and the one half of the fortysecond lot, and the one half of the thirtyfourth, thirtyfifth, thirtysixth & thirtyseventh lots all in Marshfield in the first division and one half of my salt-meadow not heretofore given away, excepting a piece by the landing place, & one half of my wearing apparel.

Item. I give to my son Lemuel Little his heirs & assigns forever, that part of my homestead I now live on, begining at the Mill-dam, running down stream until it comes to the Landing-place, and so by the meadow fence until it comes to the row of bushes beforementioned against the meadow of Asa Thomas, & so turning by the row of bushes until it comes to the row of stones, so by the row of stones until it comes to the fence and so by the fence until it comes to the highway, and so by the northerly side of the highway until it comes to the mill dam first mentd. Futhermore, a piece of land a part of my homestead on the southerly side of the highway bounded as follows, begining at the highway by the Land of Asa Thomas so runing upstream by the fence as it now stands, until it comes to the land of Francis Crooker, and so by the land of Francis Crooker as the fence is now until it comes to the highway, so by the southerly side of the highway to the bounds firstmentioned. Also one third part of all my salt-meadow in Marshfield not heretofore given away. Also one half of Stephens-island, & one half of the meadow thereunto belonging, also one half the lot called Booth,s-lot with the additions thereunto belonging, between that & Little-town-brook, the one half of the sixth, the one half of the fortysecond lot, the one half of the thirtyfourth, thirtyfifth, thirtysixth, & thirtyseventh lots all in Marshfield in the first division, also my negro man named Cæsar. But it is my will that Casar wait on my wife when she shall have occasion for him. ~

Furthermore, I give to my two sons Ephraim & Thomas Little my negro man, named Amos, alias Gambo, & my negro-man named Dego, equally between them, and to their heirs & assigns. ~

Furthermore, I give to my son Ephraim Little my riding horse, & my old barn on the southerly side of the highway, and free liberty to take off the same in twelve months after my decease. ~

Furthermore, I give to my two sons Ephraim & Thomas Little liberty to land or lay wood, hay or Lumber at my landing place, where it may be safe, & most convenient & least detriomental. ~

Item. I give to my grandaughter Alice Little one feather-bed & furniture, one cow & four sheep, provided she does not bring in any account, against my executors. ~

Furthermore, I give to my son Thomas Little one half of the sixth lot, which was omitted when I gave him the fortysecond, which is in Marshfield in the first division. ~

Furthermore, My will is that none of my children or heirs bring in any debt, charge, or demand against my executors except it be either note or bond, on the forfeiture of his or their Legacy or legacys in this my last will & testament. ~

Furthermore, all my real & personal estate not heretofore disposd. off I give equally between my three sons Ephraim, Thomas, & Lemuel Little to them & their heirs. and I give each of my sons free liberty to pass & repass across each others lands, where it will be least prejudicial & most convenient.—

Furthermore, my will is that my sons John & William Little pay to my executors hereafternamed each of them twenty pounds, John twenty & William twenty, to enable my executors to pay debts & legacies in twelve months after my decease. ~

Furthermore. It is my will, as my son Thomas Little having no part of Stephens Island given him in this my last will & testament, I do hereby order my son Lemuel Little to pay him the said Thomas or his heirs the sum of twenty pounds, within twelve months after my decease. ~

Lastly, I nominate & appoint my three sons Ephraim, Thomas, & Lemuel Little joint executors of this my last will & testament, and I do hereby order that they pay all my just debts & funeral charges. ~~  In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand & seal the day & Year first beforementioned.

                                                                                                                                                John Little                          (seal)

Signed, sealed, published, pronounced, & declared by the said John Little Esqre. to be his last will & testament in presence of. ~

                                                                Elisha Phillips

                                                                Francis Crooker

                                                                Nathll. Phillips

 

Presented for probate on 6 March 1767 by Ephraim Little, Thomas Little, and Lemuel Little, the executors therein-named, and proved by Elisha Phillips, Francis Crooker, and Nathaniel Phillips, the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Ephraim Little, Thomas Little, and Lemuel Little, the before-named executors.

 

The Inventory of all the estate both real & Personal of John Little esqre. Late of Marshfield, was appraised on 28 Apr. 1767 by Elisha Phillips, Nathll. Phillips, and Daniel White, and totaled £4345.15.10, including his real estate valued at £4055.9.4. The Executors gave their oath to the inventory on 28 Apr. 1767.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 19, p. 461-464, from FHL microfilm #0550711.

 

 

Will of Ebenezer Lobdel of Plympton, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1747) *

In the Name of God Amen, the twenty fifth day of February One thousand seven hundred and forty Seven, I Ebenezer Lobdel of Plimton in the County of Plimouth in New England being very Sick & weak of Body, but of perfect mind and memory Thanks be Given to God therfor And Calling to mind the Mortality of my body and knowing that it is appointed for all men once to die do make and Ordain this my last Will & Testament, that is to say first & principally I Do Give and recomend my Soul into the Hands of God that gave it & my body I recomend to the Earth to be Buried in a Decent Christian Burial at the Discretion of my Executor hereafter named, Nothing doubting but at the General resurrection I Shall receive the same Again by the Mighty power of God and as touching Such worldly Estate wherewith it hath pleased God to bless me with in this life I Give & Bequeath and dispose of in the following manner and form ~~~

Imprimis, I Give & bequeath unto my Well beloved wife Mercy all the Goods & Estate that She brought to my House

Item I Give & bequeath unto my son Isaac all my Estate both Real & personal to him & his heirs and assigns forever Excepting the Legacies and Dutys hereafter mentioned,   Item I Give and bequeath unto my daughter Sarah Loring Two hundred & Nineteen pounds Old tenour to be paid by my said son Isaac within two years after my Decease

Item, I Give and bequeath unto my daughter Lydia Five hundred pounds old tenour the One half thereof to be paid by my aforesd son Isaac when She Shall arrive at the age of Eighteen years and the remaining part of the said five hundred pounds to be paid by my said son Isaac unto my said Daughter Lydia when She Shall arrive to the age of twenty One years and also my Will is that my said Daughter Lydia Shall have the use & improvement of one room in my dwelling house so long as She Shall live Single, and my Will is that my aforesaid son Isaac Shall provide and deliver unto my aforesaid wife Mercy yearly & every year so long as She Shall remain my widdow and perform the following Duty viz, To provide & keep two Good Cows & One good horse for her use and tacklin and Ten bushels of Indian and English Corn, and Two hundred weight of good porke and Beefe, and also as many apples as She Shall want for her use and also a Sufficiency of Malt for Beer and also the Liberty of keeping Fowls, and also to deliver her yearly & Every year Ten pounds of Sheep wooll and fifteen pounds of Good flax from the Swingle, And also to provide for her yearly and Every year, so long as She Shall remain my Wid. a Sufficiency of Fire wood Cut at the Dore fit for the fire and also the privilige of the use of a Slice and longs and pots & kittles & Skillets & Dogs Suitable for House keeping; and also the privilige of Green pease & beans Sufficient for her and also my will is that my said son provides for my said wife yearly & every year one Bushel and One half of Salt, and also my will is that my said wife Mercy Shall have for her own Disposall Two Blankets and all the Linen that She has made since She was my wife, and also my Will is that my sd wife Shall have the use and Improvement of the one half of my Dwelling house that is that half that She Shall chuse so long as She Shall remain my Widdowe together with the improvement of my Gardin, and also my Will is that if my aforesaid wife Shall marry again that my aforesaid son Isaac Shall pay unto her Two hundred pounds old tenour, viz Fifty pounds of the aforesd sum within One year after marrage & so fifty pounds yearly untill the said two hundred pounds be paid.—

And lastly I do Constitute my son Isaac Sole Executor of my last will and Testament, and I do hereby utterly Disallow and Disanull all and Every other will or Testament by me made ratifyieing & Confirming this and no other to be my last Will and Testament In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand & Seal the day & year above written—

Signed Sealed published pronounced

and Declared by the sd Ebenezer

Lobdel to be his last will and                                                                                            Ebenezer Lobdel                              (seal)

Testament in the presence of us

the Subscribers  —

Josiah Perkins

Polycarpus Loring

John Bryant junr.

 

I the Subscriber Do in the Present of the Witnesses to this will Give my Consent unto every Article Containd in the foregoing will, and that the particulars therein Given and bequeathed unto me by my husband Ebenezer Lobdel is to my full Satisfaction, and have accordingly Signed & Sealed the year above Written                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                  her

                                                                                                                                                Mercy Lobdell      M                           (seal)

                                                                                                                                                                               mark

 

Presented for probate on 2 April 1748 by the Executor therein named, and proved by Josiah Perkins, Polycarpus Loring, and Jno. Bryant jur.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 11, p. 267-268, from FHL microfilm #0551537.

 

 

Will of Joseph Look of Rochester, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1857) *

                In the name of God, Amen. I, Joseph Look of Rochester in the County of Plymouth, and State of Massachusetts Esq. being of sound and disposing mind and memory, do make this my last Will and Testament.

                First I give, bequeath and demise to my beloved son, Isaac W. Look, the interest of five hundred dollars to be paid to him annually after my death during his natural Life,-and after the death of him the said Isaac W. Look, it is my Will, that the said five hundred dollars shall be equally divided between five of my grand-children, viz. Sarah F. Stevens, the wife of Micah W. Stevens, Desire P. Taber, the wife of Charles Taber, Charity C. Hathaway, the wife of Elnathan Hathaway, George W. Basset and James H. Look Junior.

                Secondly; I give, bequeath and demise to my beloved grand-daughter, Desire P. Taber, above named, in addition to what I have already given her, two hundred dollars more, to be paid to her in one year after my death also one undivided half part of my indoor moveables or goods

                Thirdly; I give, bequeath and devise to my beloved daughter-in-law, Thankful H. Look, the wife of James H. Look, the other half of my indoor moveables or goods, after my death.

                Fourthly, I give, bequeath and devise to my beloved son, James H. Look, his heirs, and assigns forever all my real and personal estate that I may die seized of, except what I have herein before given away.

                Fifthly, I hereby appoint my son James H. Look, Trustee, to hold in trust for my son Isaac W. Look, what I have given to him the said Isaac and to pay or cause to be paid to him the said Isaac for his use and benefit the interest of the five hundred dollars aforenamed in this Will.

                Sixthly; I hereby appoint my son James H. Look, to be Executor of this my last Will and Testament, hereby revoking all former wills by me made and declaring this to be my last Will and Testament.

                In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this nineteenth day of September A.D. one thousand eight hundred and fifty seven.

                                                                                                                                                Joseph Look                                      (seal)

                Signed, published pronounced and declared by the said Joseph Look to be his last Will and Testament, in the presence of the subscribers, who, in his presence, and at his request, and in his presence and in the presence of each other hereunto set our hands as Witnesses the day and year above named.

                                                                                                                                                James Ruggles.

                                                                                                                                                William Stevens.

                                                                                                                                                Isaac Stevens.

 

Presented for probate on the last Tuesday of Oct. 1857 by James H. Look, the Executor therein named, and proved by James Ruggles and William Stevens, two of the witnesses, Letters Testamentary granted to James H. Look.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 99, p. 456-457, from FHL microfilm #0555644.

 

 

Will of Henry Loomis of Burlington, Chittenden County, Vermont (1882) *

Know all men by these presents that I Henry Loomis of the City of Burlington County of Chittenden and State of Vermont being of sound mind and memory, do hereby make, publish, and declare, this to be my last will and testament, and by this, revoking all former Wills by me made.

                It is first my will that all of my just debts and funeral expenses, be paid as soon after my decease as conveniently may be

                It is next my will that in case I should survive my dear brother Horatio G. Looms, My Executors, heirs or administrator fully carry out all instructions and requests made by him to me in writing, in relation to his Estate, intending by this, that all of his estate coming to me by his will, be used, if necessary, to carry out all such instructions and requests. And in case my dear Sister Maria Loomis should survive me, and her property be insufficient for her reasonable support, then after the Exhausting of her Estate for that purpose, I wish my heirs to provide for her just, and proper Support, consistent with their ability for so doing, and secure to her for the remainder of her life this provision for her support.

                It is next my will that the sum of Eleven Thousand Five Hundred Dollars, be equally divided between my sons William, Luther and Horatio or their heirs, this being the balance of the Estate of their dear Mother, the income since her death having been Expended by me for charitable, or other purposes, that I thought would meet her full approbation

It is next my will in case I survive my son Luther, that such portion of my Estate, as in it’s equal division between my said three sons, would have fallen to my said son Luther, be safely invested by my Executors or administrator, and from the net income thereof, there be paid to his wife Frances annually, or at such times during each year as she may need it, and until she shall again marry or until her death, a sum not less than One Thousand Dollars, nor more than Fifteen Hundred Dollars. Provided the net income from this portion of my estate shall be sufficient for the support and proper education of their child, or children, of my said son Luther, and leave a balance sufficient to pay the first or last named sums; and such balance of the net income falling below the sum of one thousand dollars, she shall receive this balance in place of the first named sum. And should she again Marry, then she shall annually receive, as above provided, the sum of Five Hundred Dollars. Provided, as above, there shall be sufficient to pay this amount after paying the expense of the support and Education of the child or children from the net income. And when his son Henry or other children that may be born to my said son, and his said wife, shall become of age according to law, he or they may receive his or their equal portion of this part of my Estate, by securing to their Mother their equal part of his Annuity, provided my said son shall not then be living

                It is next my Will that a tier of lots fronting on the South side of Loomis Street in Burlington aforesaid and running south two hundred feet from the south side of said Loomis Street, be laid out, and that all of that part of my homestead lying south of said lots, to Pearl Street, in said Burlington, together with all buildings on said land, and all personal property upon said land, and in my House and outbuildings of the homestead, saving my notes, Bonds, money, and accounts due me, if any such are found in my house, be taken by my son Luther Loomis if then living, and that he be charged therefor, the sum of Sixteen Thousand Dollars, in the equal division of my Estate, after the payment of my debts and any legacy or legacies hereinafter named. Provided there shall be enough left of my estate after the payment of my just debts, and funeral expenses, and any legacy or legacies herein made, and not compel him against his will, to pay to the other heirs any sum to equalize his portion with their Equal portions. And should my son Luther not survive me, I then wish this portion of my Estate to be taken by my Son Horatio and that he be charged therefor the sum of Thirteen Thousand Dollars, It being my object in this division of my estate to prevent any appraisal of my household effects, which appraisal I desire shall not be made, and trust that my children will respect this feeling

                To the First Congregational Society in Burlington Vermont where I have attended church the greater part of my life, I give that portion of it’s property, the title to which is in me as one of the Pew Holders or Owners under its original Organization, but reserve to my heirs, that shall be in sympathy with the Liberal Christian Views of this Society, the right to Vote in all legally warned meetings of said Pew Holders, upon all matters over which the Pew Holders or Owners hold control. And at such meetings, any of my heirs or their successors that are present, if of this Liberal Christian faith, may have equal rights, and only one being present, if loyal to the faith for which this Society has for so many years stood, he or she may exercise this right by Voting on the Whole Stock, and if none of my heirs or their successors, after reasonable diligence to warn those, that may be able to attend a meeting, of the coming meeting then the Society may elect one of its members to vote, under instructions, at any coming meeting next to take place and for that meeting only. And should my Estate, by assuming for that portion Set off for my son Luther; at an appraisal of Thirteen Thousand Dollars, amount in all to the sum of One Hundred and Fifty Thousand Dollars, then I farther give to said Society the sum of Three Thousand Dollars the income of which sum, after its safe investment shall, or may be expended in the discretion of the Prudential Committee for the painting and repairs of the Church, the Sexton’s House, and the Fence, and for keeping the grass and trees in good and proper order, but should my estate appraise as above directed at a sum less than One Hundred and Fifty Thousand Dollars then this donation shall be reduced to One Thousand Dollars

                I hereby appoint my sons William and Luther as my executors, and in case of the death of either of my said Sons, I appoint my Son Horatio to act, in place of the one deceased, and direct that no surety be required upon their bond to the Probate Court

   In witness whereof I have hereunto subscribed my name and affixed my seal this Eleventh day of February A.D. 1882

                                                                                                                                                Henry Loomis                                       (seal)

The above written instrument having been subscribed in our presence, by the said Henry Loomis, and by him acknowledged to each of us, as being his last Will and Testament we the subscribers, at the request of the said testator have signed our names as witnesses thereto, in his presence, and in the presence of each other

                                                                                                                                                C. F. Ward

                                                                                                                                                S. M. Pope

                                                                                                                                                F. W. Ward

 

Presented for probate on 22 Dec. 1886, and proved by F W. Ward on 15 Jan. 1887.

 

State of Vermont

District of Chittenden                                                                                                         In Probate Court

                                                                                                                                                January 21st, 1887

 

Come Luther Loomis of Chicago State of Illinois – and Horatio Loomis of Burlington State of Vermont and showed to the satisfaction of said court that Henry Loomis late of said Burlington deceased, left as his sole heirs-at-law

William Loomis of Chicago State of Illinois

Luther Loomis of said Chicago and

Horatio Loomis of said Burlington – the sole surviving children of said deceased

Whereupon said Court doth find, order and deem that the said William Loomis Luther Loomis and Horatio Loomis are the sole heirs-at-law of said Henry Loomis deceased

                Witness my hand and Official Seal at said Burlington this 21st day of January 1887

                                                                                                                                                T E Wales Judge of Probate

 

The accounting of the estate of Henry Loomis filed on 30 Aug. 1887 shows his estate was valued at $152,158.15, including notes, stocks and cash on hand worth $146,500.

 

Know all Men by these Presents, that I, Horatio Loomis of Burlington in the County of Chittenden in the State of Vermont, now temporarily in England, being one of the sons and heirs at law of Henry Loomis late of said Burlington, deceased, testate, do hereby make, constitute and appoint Elias Lyman of said Burlington, my true and lawful attorney, for me, and in my name and behalf to appear before this Probate Court of the District of Chittenden in the State of Vermont, in all matters and proceedings therein relative to this settlement of the Estate of said Henry Loomis or of the settlement of the accounts of the Executors of his will, and the distribution of his estate under said will or according to the Statute of distributions of said State of Vermont, and to represent me in all or any of such matters, and to accept or receive in my behalf any & all notices connected with or incident to such matters & proceedings and to sign in my behalf any papers necessary or proper in this business.

                Witness my hand and seal at Whitby, Yorkshire, England this 12th day of September 1887 –

                                                                                                                                                Horatio Loomis                                    (seal)

 

To the Honorable Probate Court for the District of Chittenden:

                                This is to certify that the Executors of the Will of Henry Loomis, late of Burlington in said district, have made suitable provision for me, Maria Loomis, of said Burlington, sister of said Henry Loomis, under and in accordance with said will, to my full and complete satisfaction:

                And I hereby consent that the residue of the Estate of said Henry Loomis, and this same appears by their account of said Executors, on file in said Court, as remaining in their hands, may be decreed to the three sons by said Court absolutely, and freed and released of any claim whatsoever on my behalf: and I request said Court to make decree of distribution accordingly,

                                Dated at Burlington Vermont this day of December 1887

Attest                                                                                                                                     Maria Loomis

                L. G. Ware.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Chittenden County Probate Estate Files, 1886, Box 31, File #4794.

 

 

Will and Codicils of Horatio Gates Loomis of Burlington, Chittenden County, Vermont (1894) *

I Horatio G Loomis of the City of Burlington, Chittenden County State of Vermont do hereby make publish and declare this as my last Will and testament and I revoke all other Wills I ever made –

I direct the payment of my just debts and funeral expenses –

I give to my three nephews William Loomis Luther Loomis and Horatio Loomis children of my late brother Henry Loomis deceased, the sum of fifty thousand dollars in trust for the following purpose viz: I direct my said trustees to keep property invested said sum of fifty thousand dollars during the lives of Emma G. Rowe the daughter of my late wife Susan E. Loomis deceased, and of Susan Loomis Rowe daughter of said Emma G Rowe – and the life of the survivor of them – and to pay over the net income of said trust fund to said Emma G Rowe until her daughter Susan Loomis Rowe arrives at the age of Eighteen years, and after that to pay over the same in equal shares to said Emma G and Susan Loomis while they both live and upon the death of either to pay over said income to the survivor or them during the remainder of her life

At the death of the survivor of the said Emma G. and Susan Loomis Rowe said trust shall be at an end, and I give said trust fund of fifty thousand dollars to the University of Vermont and State Agricultural College located at said Burlington as a permanent fund, the income thereof to be forever appropriated to the use of the departments of agriculture and mechanic arts in said institution

I also give to my said three trustees the further sum of ten thousand dollars in trust – for the following purpose viz:

I direct my said trustees to keep said Trust fund of ten thousand dollars properly invested and to pay over the net income thereof to Mary Jane Lothrop a sister of my late wife Susan E. during the life of said Mary Jane – and at her death I give said trust fund of ten thousand dollars to the City of Burlington as a permanent fund the income thereof to be forever appropriated to the use of the Fletcher Free Library in said City

I authorize my said Trustees in carrying out said trusts to make all such investments, collections and re-investments as they shall deem best in the exercise of their sound discretion – and in case of a vacancy in said board of trustees for any reason I authorize the remaining trustees to nominate to the Probate Court suitable persons to fill such vacancy, and I request my trustees to make no charges for their personal services in the execution of said Trust.

The rest residue and remainder of all my estate not hereinbefore otherwise disposed of I give and devise to my said three nephews William Loomis Luther Loomis and Horatio Loomis in equal shares to them and their heirs forever

I direct that no inventory shall be taken to be returned to the Court, of my household goods and effects

I nominate said Luther Loomis William Loomis & Horatio Loomis Executors of this Will and direct that no bonds be required of my Executors or Trustees

                In witness Whereof I hereto set my hand and seal this 17th day of July 1894

                                                                                                                                                H. G. Loomis                                     (seal)

Signed sealed published and declared by the said Horatio G Loomis as and for his last will and testament in presence of us who at his request in his presence, and in the presence of each other have hereto subscribed our names as witnesses

T E Wales

CWoodhouse

W.C. Isham

 

I Horatio G Loomis of the city of Burlington State of Vermont do hereby make publish and declare this as a codicil to my last Will and testament bearing date July 17th 1894

In my said will I have appointed my three nephews William Loomis Luther Loomis and Horatio Loomis trustees of certain funds I have therein given them in trust, and have in my said will requested them to make no charge for their personal services in the execution of said trust.

Now for the purpose of providing for the payment of the services of said trustees if they claim pay, and the services of all persons who may succeed them as such trustees, I do hereby direct that the sum of Eight thousand dollars be set apart and held by my Executors during the term of the trust of fifty thousand dollars I have in my said will created for the benefit of Emma G Rowe and Susan L Rowe, and kept properly invested and from said sum of eight thousand dollars and the income thereof shall be paid all the proper charges and expenses of managing & executing said trust

Whatever shall remain of said sum of eight thousand dollars & of the income thereof when said trust shall end, I give to the University of Vermont and State Agricultural College to be added to the said sum of fifty thousand dollars I have given that institution in my said will to be held and the income thereof used and appropriated as provided in the gift of said fifty thousand dollars

I give to Augustus Jacobson of Chicago State of Illinois five thousand dollars,

I give to Dr LeRoy M Bingham of said Burlington five thousand dollars

I give to Henry Loomis and Weston Loomis children of my nephew Luther Loomis twenty five hundred dollars each, to be kept at interest and paid over to them as they attain majority respectively – & in case of the death of either during minority I give his legacy to the survivor.

I give to Mary Phelps Loomis wife of my nephew Horatio Loomis three thousand dollars which she can use in building for herself a cottage in the Adirondacks, or in any other way she chooses, and this legacy is given as a present from Susan

I give to Mrs Bradley Wife of Dr Edward Bradley of New York City one thousand dollars and to her daughter Mrs George W Cottrill one thousand dollars – and to her daughter Mrs Mamie Jarvis two thousand dollars

I give to H Louisa Harmon a daughter of Charles L Harmon late of Chicago deceased two thousand dollars and to her sister Lillian Harmon one thousand dollars

I give to R J Brown for the faithful services he has rendered me, two thousand dollars with which he can buy a home for his family

I give to Maria Waite and Isabel Waite daughters of Joseph Waite late of Chicago deceased one thousand dollars each

I give to Miss Anna Proctor daughter of Joseph Proctor of Manchester by the sea, Massachusetts – one thousand dollars

Whatever sums of money I give any of the above named legatees and notes up against them on my book shall apply towards the legacies of those to whom such money is given respectively, by me, in my lifetime

Those named in my said will as my residuary legatees shall be entitled to such portion of my estate only as shall remain after the payment and satisfaction of all other legacies I have made both in my will and this codicil as therein specified

                In witness whereof I hereto set my hand & seal at said Burlington this 23d day of October 1894

                                                                                                                                                H. G. Loomis                                     (seal)

Signed sealed published and declared by the said Horatio G Loomis as and for a Codicil to his last will and testament, in presence of us who at his request in his presence and in the presence of each other have hereto subscribed our names as witnesses

T E Wales

CWoodhouse

W.C. Isham

 

I Horatio G Loomis of the city of Burlington State of Vermont do hereby make publish and declare this as a second codicil to my last will and testament bearing date July 17th. 1894

In my said Will I have given my three nephew William Loomis Luther Loomis and Horatio Loomis fifty thousand dollars in trust, for the purposes therein specified and at the end of said trust I have given said trust fund of fifty thousand dollars to the University of Vermont and State Agricultural College and have directed the income thereof to be forever appropriated to the use of the departments of agriculture and mechanic arts in said institution, I now wish to increase that sum ten thousand dollars and instead of fifty thousand dollars I hereby give sixty thousand dollars to my said nephews in trust for the purposes specified in my said will and at the end of said trust I give said trust fund of sixty thousand dollars to the University of Vermont and State Agricultural College for the use of the departments in that institute above mentioned.

In the codicil to my said Will that I first made which bears date the 23d day of October 1894 I made a legacy of one thousand dollars to Mrs Bradley Wife of Dr Edward Bradley of New York City and as she has since died I revoke that legacy and instead thereof I give to her two daughters Mrs George W Cottrill and Mrs Mamie Jarvis five hundred dollars each in addition to what I have given them in my first Codicil

I direct that all the legacies I have made in my said will and my two Codicils thereto, including said bequest of sixty thousand dollars in trust, shall be paid in my United States 4 per cent Registered bonds of 1907 at par– and if I have not at my decease sufficient of said bonds to pay off said legacies my Executors are directed to purchase like bonds sufficient to make up the number required to pay said legacies in full at the par value thereof, and my said legatees are hereby required to accept said bonds in payment of their respective legacies at the par value thereof –

It is my will that all the legacies including trusts I have made in my Will and Codicils be fully paid in the manner above mentioned – and that all charges, inheritance taxes, and administration expenses and charges of every kind be paid out of my other assets

And I hereby confirm my said will and my first codicil thereto in all respects except as the same are modified or changed by this codicil

In testimony whereof I hereto set my hand and seal at said Burlington this 15th day of November 1897

                                                                                                                                                Horatio Gates Loomis                   (seal)

Signed sealed published and declared by the said Horatio G Loomis as and for a second Codicil to his last will and testament bearing date July 17. 1894 in the presence of us who at his request in his presence and in the presence of each other have hereto subscribed our names as Witnesses

T E Wales

CWoodhouse

W.C. Isham

 

Presented for probate on 20 July 1900 by William Loomis of the City and State of New York now of Redfield Conn, Luther Loomis of Bloomingdale Park State of Pennsylvania, and Horatio Loomis of the City of Burlington State of Vermont, and proved by Charles W Woodhouse of the city of Burlington State of Vermont on 6 Sept. 1900.

The Inventory of the estate of Horatio G. Loomis of Burlington showed his real estate valued at $22,000, $100,000 in United States 4% Bonds of 1907, stocks valued at $139,862, bills receivable and cash of $23,000, and $3000 in furniture, but the inventory was revised as dividends were received.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Chittenden County Probate Estate Files, 1900, Box 39, File #6526.

 

 

Will and Codicil of Luther Loomis of Burlington, Chittenden County, Vermont (1844) *

I Luther Loomis of Burlington, in the County of Chittenden and State of Vermont, aware of the uncertainty of life and the duty of arranging our worldly affairs with reference to that event, and being of sound mind and memory, do make and Publish this my last Will and testament: to wit,

1st. It is my will that my debts which I trust are few and of small amount, be paid without delay, and that my estate be settled as soon as may be. –

2nd. To my son Horatio G., I give, devise and bequeath my two Stores and lots in Chicago in the State of Illinois—the sum of eight thousand dollars, already in his hands, and for which I hold his two receipts – all the volumes of Niles’ Register and my gold watch.

3rd. To my son Henry, I give devise and bequeath my homestead with the Store and lots adjoining and lying on the north side of Pearl Street – All my household furniture, excepting what I have herein given to my daughter Maria – the Sum of eight thousand dollars, already in his hands, and for which I hold his receipt – all my horses, cows, wagons, carriages, sleighs and farming utensils on my homestead, and also the volumes (being eighty three) of Rees’ Cyclopedia.

4th.– To my daughter Maria, I give devise and bequeath the Sum of eight thousand dollars in cash or good notes, being the same sum which I have given, as above, to each of my Sons – My intervale farm Known as the ‘Loomis farm’, and numbered two (2) in the division of my father’s estate — All my land in Muddy Brook, being fifty acres of Lot number two hundred and two (202) and the land which I purchased of Zadock Coleman in all about Sixty Seven (67) acres – Such books as she may select from my library (not otherwise disposed of above) to the same value of those above given to my Son Henry – the Piano, Bureau and sundry articles now hers – and such other furniture as she may Select to the value of three hundred dollars.

5th  To my grandson Charles L. Peck, I give, devise and bequeath my farm lying on the Winsocki turnpike in Burlington and now occupied by Jonah Adams – all the lands which I own in common with Alvan Foote in the town of Newport, in this State, and all the notes due for lands Sold there – A note against Gideon Lathrop for the sum of twelve hundred and twenty five dollars, or thirty five Share of the Stock of the Champlain Transportation Company – or should said note be paid to me and said Stock be transferred, then the sum of twelve hundred and twenty five dollars in cash or goods notes, bearing interest to have and to hold the same to him the said Charles L, his heirs and assigns forever – provided nevertheless, and  it is my will that nothing but the use, interest and annual proceeds of the property in this article (5th) Specified, is to rest in my said grand-son or to become his unless and until he arrives to the full age of twenty one years – but my executors are authorized to transfer to the natural or appointed guardian of my said grandson the property in this article Specified, in trust for the use and benefit of my said grandson, taking Security for the surrender and repayment of said property in case of the decease of my said grandson, during his minority – And in this event the said property in this article Specified, is to be divided among my heirs, according to the laws of this State.

6th.  To Johnson Wadsworth, I give and grant and devise the use and occupancy of the land, and all my interest in the buildings where he now lives (which property I have leased to him) during his natural life – and Should his wife survive him, I grant and devise the same to her during her natural life, he or she paying to my son Henry or his heirs, one cent per annum rent.

7th. The remainder of my estate and property of every description, after paying my debts and the legacies and bequests herein before made and the expenses of my funeral and the Settlement of my estate I give, grant, devise and bequeath to my said Sons Horatio G. and Henry and my said daughter Maria, to be equally divided between them Share and Share alike – to have and to hold the Same, to gether with the bequests herein before made to them, to themselves and their heirs and assigns, respectively, forever – provided, that the shares herein given to my said sons Horatio G. and Henry are to be subject to a deduction of such sums as may be due from them severally and individually to me, on note and book account.

8th. I hereby authorize my executors to dispose of any personal estate I may leave, and make such exchanges of notes and obligations as they may judge for the interest of my estate.

9th. I hereby nominate, constitute and appoint John N. Pomeroy and Henry Loomis, jointly and severally my executors of this my last will and testament, hereby revoking all former wills by me made.

 

In Witness whereof I have hereunto Set my hand and Seal this 4th day of June AD 1844 at Burlington.

Signed Sealed, published and declared

by the above named Luther Loomis, to

be his last will and testament, in

presence of us, whohim herunto set                                                                                 Luther Loomis                                  (seal)

our hands and names as witnesses, in

presence of each other and in presence of the

testator –               Lucia L. Pomeroy

                                Mary Pomeroy

                                Esther Thompson

 

Whereas I Luther Loomis of Burlington in the County of Chittenden have duly executed my last will and testament in writing on the three preceding pages, and am desirous of altering my said will in respect to the legacy to my daughter Maria, to make it comport with my intention at the time of making the same, now I the said Luther Loomis do make the present writing which I will and direct to be annexed as a codicil to my said will, and taken as a part thereof, and I do hereby give, devise and bequeath to my said Daughter Maria her heirs and assigns forever, in a dition to the legacy to her in said will, all the lots of land which I own lying on both sides of Williams Street between Pearl Street and College Street, in said Burlington, Containing about five acres, and I hereby ratify and confirm my said will in every thing except where the same is hereby revoked and altered, as aforesaid

        In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this 14th. day of June AD 1844, at Burlington America.

Signed Sealed, Published and declared

By the Said Luther Loomis as and for

a codicil to his last will and testament

and to be taken as a part thereof, in the

presence of these several persons, whose                                                                       Luther Loomis                                  (seal)

names are hereunto Subscribed as wit-

nesses to the Signing, Sealing and publishing

the Same, which said therein persons and

So hereunder Subscribe their names at the

Request and in the presence of the Said

Luther Looms and in the presence of

each other

   E. C. Loomis

   S C Weatherly

   A. W. Allen

 

Presented for probate on 29 June 1844. Proved on 21 Aug. 1844 by Lucia L. Pomeroy and Edward C. Loomis, two of the subscribing witnesses. John N. Pomeroy and Henry Loomis, both of Burlington, posted bond as executors with Horatio G. Loomis of Chicago as surety on 21 Aug. 1844.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Chittenden County Probate Estate Files, 1844, Box 12, File #1213.

 

 

Will of Maria Loomis of Burlington, Chittenden County, Vermont (1887) *

I, Maria Loomis, of the City of Burlington Vermont make this my Last Will and Testament—

First: I give, devise and bequeathe to my Nephews, William Loomis, Luther Loomis and Horatio Loomis a vacant Lot fronting on Williams Street one hundred and forty three feet and extending west the whole depth off from the north side of my Homestead premises—

Second: I give, devise and bequeathe to the Rev, Loammi G. Ware of the City of Burlington Vermont ten thousand dollars and also all my household furniture, books and pictures, intending hereby to give to him all my personal property in and about my Homestead premises at the time of my death, except my cash, notes, stocks and bonds—

                                I wish to prevent any appraisal of my household effects—

Third: I give, devise and bequeathe to the Rev, Loammi G. Ware of the City of Burlington Vermont the use during his life of my Homestead premises, that is, my House, out-buildings and all the land I occupy as a Homestead, except the vacant Lot given in the First item of this my Last Will to my Nephews, William, Luther and Horatio Loomis—

Fourth: I give, devise and bequeathe, in trust, to the Trustees of the University of Vermont and State Agricultural College, a Corporation located at Burlington Vermont, ten thousand dollars the use or income only of which shall be taken annually forever and expended by said Trustees in purchasing Books for the Library of said University—

Fifth: I give, devise and bequeathe to my Nephew, Horatio Loomis, my Homestead premises which includes all the buildings I now occupy and the land connected therewith on the west side of Williams Street, except so much thereof as I have given in the First item of this my Last Will to my Nephews, William, Luther and Horatio Loomis, subject however to the life estate of the Rev, L. G. Ware as specified in the Third item of this my Last Will—

This Legacy to my Nephew, Horatio Loomis is made with the expectation that my personal estate will be sufficient to pay in full the two Legacies of ten thousand dollars each to the Rev, L. G. Ware and the University in the Second and Fourth items of this my Last Will which two said Legacies I wish paid in full even if it becomes necessary to sell my Homestead premises, after taking off the Lot which I have given away by the First item in this my Last Will—

                                If it is necessary to sell my Homestead to pay in full the two ten thousand dollar Legacies herein specified, then I give the power so to do to my Executor and hereby authorize him to execute a good and sufficient Deed of Warranty of the same free from all incumbrances and direct my Executor to take from the proceeds of such sale enough money to pay each of the ten thousand dollar Legacies in full and then, in that event, I give, devise and bequeathe the remainder of the proceeds of said sale to my Nephew, Horatio Loomis—

Sixth: I give, devise and bequeathe all the rest and residue of my estate to my Brother, Horatio G. Loomis and hereby appoint him Executor of this my Last Will and Testament and direct that no Bonds be required of him by the Probate Court for the due execution of said trust—

                Burlington Vermont January 3d 1887—

                                                                                                                                                Maria Loomis                                   (seal)

Signed, sealed, published and declared by the Testatrix as and for her Last Will and Testament in our presence who at her request in her presence and we in the presence of each other have signed our names hereto as witnesses thereof.                                           A. E. Richardson

                                                                Elihu B. Taft                                                        Frances A. Richardson

 

Presented for probate on 4 Feb. 1889, and proved by A. E. Richardson on 2 Mar. 1889. Letters Testamentary granted to Horatio G. Loomis of Burlington, with Susan E. Loomis of Burlington and Geo. W. Wales of Burlington as sureties. Geo W. Wales and Henry Greene of Burlington were appointed to appraise the estate of Maria Loomis, late of Burlington, on 2 Mar. 1889. Her real estate was valued at $9000.00. No inventory of her notes or bonds was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Chittenden County Probate Estate Files, 1889, Box 31, File #4864.

 

 

Will of Phineas Loomis of Burlington, Chittenden County, Vermont (1807) *

                                In the name of God.  Amen

I Phineas Loomis of Burlington in the County of Chittenden and State of Vermont, do make, ordain and declare this Instrument to be my last Will and Testament, revoking all others—

Imprimis – All my debts which are but few, & none of magnitude are to be punctually and speedily paid, and the legacies herein after bequeathed are to be discharged assoon as circumstances will permit, and in the manner directed—

Item – To my beloved wife Diadama Loomis I give & bequeath the whole of my household furniture together with two Cows, one horse, & such riding Carriage as I may possess at the time of my decease, I give to her, & her heirs forever. I also give to her, for and during her natural life, the sole use, profit, benefit, and control of the one moiety of my dwelling house, Barn, out houses and Land lying on both sides of the highway near my dwelling house being about twentyseven Acres of Land in the whole except about six Acres on the north said of said highway & herein after described & willed to my son Warren Loomis, And it is my express direction, that said buildings, and Land, shall be equally divided by three freeholders to be elected by the Judge of Probate of Chittenden County, & after such division my said Wife shall have due notice, & make her choice as to the part that she will take in writing, which shall be set off to her. And the other moiety of said buildings and Land, together with the moiety hereby given to my said Wife during her natural life, I give & bequeath to my son Luther Loomis in fee, & I do hereby direct that assoon as the division shall be made, & his mother makes her choice, that he shall take possession of the moiety hereby given to him without Incumbrance, & at his mothers decease, he shall take possession of the whole—

                Item— I give & bequeath to my Son Warren Loomis in fee, the following described piece of Land situated on the easterly side of my lands lying North of the highway, and westerly of John Fays Land, towit, fourteen Rods wide on said highway from said Fay’s South-westerly corner, & to be continued that width on a line to be drawn parallel with said John Fay’s westerly line to the north line of my lands lying on the north side of said highway, which line so to be run will comprise about six Acres of Land be it more or less

                Item— I do give and bequeath unto my daughter Olive, now the wife of Major Lyman King, & to my sons and daughters hereafter named towit, Luther Loomis, Warren Loomis, Amanda Loomis, and Welthian Loomis, the whole of the farm & buildings which I purchased of Samuel Lane Esquire, and his two sons Samuel, and Elisha Lane, lying and being in Burlington aforesaid. Said farm contains about five hundred and forty two Acres of Land, more or less, And I do hereby expressly direct that said farm shall be divided into five equal parts, by three freeholders to be appointed by the Judge of Probate of Chittenden district, who shall be duly sworn before they enter upon said business, and in making of such division, quantity – quality and situation of each part is to be the rule for making such division, and proper metes and bounds, are to be by such freeholders set up, so as to prevent my mistake or dispute, & due return of their proceedings accompanies with a plan of sd. farm to be made under their direction containing the division to be made, shall be returned to the Judge of Probate of said Chittenden district & due notice thereof to be given by said Judge in writing to each of the said Legatees, & twenty days from the date of such notice given for them to agree on the parts to be by them respectively taken, & incase of an agreement, the same must be written & signed by said Legatees respectively, & duly witnessed and returned to said Judge of Probate when the same shall become binding & each legatee may in such case take possession of their respective shares, but incase said legatees should not agree on a division within the said term, in such case, the said Judge of Probate will notify said Legatees by a written Summons to be served by his clerk, or other person therein named, by a copy thereof to each Legatee, to meet before said Judge, at a time & place to be named, for the purpose of drawing their respective shares under the direction of said Judge of Probate; Provided always that my said son & daughter Luther, & Welthian Loomis may make choice of their respective shares, in which case, the other three legatees shall draw their respective shares in manner aforesaid – & in dividing of the said farm the freeholders who make the division are at liberty to lay the shares into one or more pieces as may best accommodate the legatees, & said legatees are hereby authorized to take possession of their respective shares as soon as a division shall be effected as above directed

                Item – I give & bequeath to my said daughter Welthian Loomis, in fee the Acre of land lying on the Southeasterly corner of the five Acre lot (so called) No. four, situated on the north side of the Mainstreet leading from Burlington bay to Williston, being the same that I purchased of William Coit Esquire—

                Item I give & bequeath, to my beloved wife Diadama Loomis in addition to the legacies herein before mentioned an annual sum of One hundred & twenty dollars, to be paid to her in the month of January Annually, so long as she remains a widow forty dollars of which shall be Annually paid to her, by my said son Luther Loomis, & the other Eighty dollars shall be annually paid to her, by my said daughters Olive King – Amanda & Welthian Loomis & by my said son Warren Loomis at twenty dollars each, and this last bequest to my said Wife shall remain as a lien on the property herein before bequeathed to my said sons and daughters –

Item – All the rest and residue of my estate, real and personal, not disposed of in manner aforesaid, in whatever consisting, at the time of my decease, over and above my Just debts which must be first cancelled – I do give and bequeath to my two Sons, & three daughters herein before named in equal portions, to be divided under the direction of said Judge of Probate. And incase it should so happen that said estate so lastly disposed of, which is to include all demands in my favour or in any way due to me, should not be Sufficient to answer all my Just debts, in such case, the wantage be it more or less, must be paid by my two Sons, & three daughters, herein before named, out of the property bequeathed to them, in proportion as their respective bequests shall be valued—

                        And as it may be a question with some why, I have omited making my eldest Son Horace Loomis a Subject of a bequest in this Will – I do Solemnly declare, that, I have already given to him a full portion of my Estate, & have placed him in a more conspicuous and advantageous situation, than is in my power to do by my other Children—

                        And if it should so happen that either of my three daughters, Olive, Amanda, & Welthian or two sons Luther & Warren should die before me, or before a Settlement of my estate can be effected, the heirs of such deceased Legatee or Legatees shall be entitled to all the benefits of the bequest— Lastly I do constitute & appoint my son Luther Loomis sole Executor of this my last Will and testament – In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and Seal at Burlington in the presence of three subscribing Witnesses this third day of April, One thousand eight hundred & seven

In Presence of

Wm. C Harrington

   Laura Lyman                                                                                                                    Phineas Loomis                                (seal)

   Amand Lyman

 

Luther Loomis gave his bond as Executor of the estate of Phineas Loomis on 31 Mar. 1810, with Horace Loomis as surety, and was recorded on 3 Apr. 1810.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Phineas Loomis, late of Burlington, was appraised by E. J. Englesby, Jno. Johnson and Leml Bottom, and totaled $13,482.86, including his homestead of 22 acres of land lying on both sides of Pearl Street valued at $2200, and the farm on Onion River valued at $9000.

 

The division of the lands of Phineas Loomis, Esqr., late of Burlington, mentioned his heirs: Luther Loomis, Olive, the wife of Major Lyman King, Amanda, the wife of Robert Peaslee, Welthyan, the wife of Elijah D. Harmon, and Warren Loomis. Harry Bradley was the witness to the division agreement. On 4 Mar. 1811.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Chittenden County Probate Estate Files, 1810, Box 2, File #122.

 

 

Will of Anna Loring of Duxbury, Plymouth County, Massachusetts Bay (1787) *

                In the name of God amen the twentyeth day of July in the Year of our Lord 1787 I Anna Loring of Duxborough in the County of Plymouth in New England Widow Relict of Mr Benjamin Loring late of Duxborough, deceased. I being of perfect mind & memory & enjoying a good share of Health Thanks be to God therefor but calling to mind the mortality of my Body & knowing that it is appointed for all men once to die, I do make & ordain this my last will & Testament that is to say principally & first of all, I give and recommend my Soul into the Hands of God that gave it & my Body I commit to the Earth to be decently buried at the discretion of my Executor hereafter named, nothing doubting but at the General Resurrection I shall receive the same again by the mighty power of God, and as touching such worldly Estate wherewith it hath pleased God to bless me with, in this Life, I give and dispose of the same in the following manner and form: that is to say first I will that all those debts & duties as I do owe in right or Conscience to any Manner of person or persons whatsoever & my funeral Charges shall be well & truly contented & paid or ordained to be paid in convenient Time after my decease by my four children equally between them viz Samuel Loring, Judah Loring Daniel Loring & Lucy Fuller—  Item I give & bequeath to my well beloved Son Samuel Loring all my cedar Swamp lying & being in the Township of Duxborough abovesaid in a certain place known by the Name of Sprague’s swamp & all my wearing Apparel, that I have had since my husband’s decease or shall have that my Son Saml. doth provide for me.—  Item I give and bequeath to my well beloved Sons Judah Loring and Daniel Loring equally between them all my right in Lands lying & being in a place formerly called Contowok now know by the Name of Bosquine which I have already given them by a Deed of Gift. —

Item I give and bequeath to my well beloved Daughter Lucy Fuller my Silver Tankard and my Trunk and all my wearing Apparel not before disposed of except my Gold Buttons

Item I give & bequeath to my well beloved Granddaughter Hannah Loring my Gold Buttons & my Will is that the whole of the remainder of my Estate not before disposed of be equally divided between my four Children viz~ Samuel Loring, Judah Loring, Daniel Loring and Lucy Fuller, and lastly I do order & constitute make & ordain my Well beloved Son Samuel Loring to be my sole Executor of this my Last Will and Testament: and I do hereby utterly disallow revoke and disannul all & every other former Testament, Wills & Legacies, Bequests and Executors by me in any Ways before this time named willed and bequeathed ratifying & confirming this and no other to be my last Will and Testament in witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand & Seal the day & year first above written. Signed sealed published pronounced & declared by me the said Anna Loring as her Last Will & Testament in the presence of us the Subscribers, viz –

   Perez Loring

   Deborah Loring                                                                                                                 Anna Loring                                      (seal)

   Levi Loring

 

Presented for probate on 23 Aug. 1804 by Samuel Loring, the Executor therein named, and proved by Perez Loring and Deborah Loring, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Samuel Loring, the before named Executor.

No inventory of her estate was recorded.

 

        Duxbury June ye 29th 1805 then received of Samuel Loring Executor to the last Will & Testament of our Mother Anna Loring late of Duxbury deceased the Sum of one hundred & sixty dollars & sixty six Cents with some House hold Furniture which is in full of all demands against the Estate of my Mother & do hereby discharge the abovesaid Saml. Loring from any further Trust as Executor &c.

   Test Judah Loring –                                                                                                         Daniel Loring

 

        Duxbury Septemr. 10th. 1805

        Then recd. of Saml Loring Executor to the last Will & Testament of our Mother Anna Loring late of Duxbury deceased, the Sum of one hundred & sixty Dollars & sixty six Cents with the Silver Tankard Trunk &c agreeably to the Will of the deceased as above mentioned recd. by us the Subscribers—

        Lucy Loring—                                                                                                              Lucy Fuller

                                                                                                                                                Jaz Fuller

 

        Duxbury October ye 10th. 1805

Then recd. of Saml. Loring Executor to the last Will & Testament of our Mother Anna Loring late off Duxbury deceased the Sum of one hundred & sixty Dollars & sixty five Cents with some Household Furniture which is in full of our demands against the Estate of my Mother & do hereby discharge the abovesaid Saml. Loring from any further trust as Executor

        Lucy Fuller—                                                                                                               Judah Loring

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 40, pp. 89-90, 363, from FHL microfilm #0550901.

 

 

Will of Jabez Loring of Plympton, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1818) *

Know all men by these presents that I Jabez Loring of Plympton in the County of Plymouth; being in a perfect State of Mind to make that is hereafter written and subscribed, with regard to my real & personal Estate, to be my last Will & Testament I give, demise & dispose in the following manner & form unto my beloved Wife Deborah All my real & personal Estate, that may appear of any description freely to be possessed & enjoyed by her & at her disposal after paying all my just Debts & funeral Charges And I do hereby appoint my Wife Deborah the sole Executrix to this my last Will & Testament And do hereby utterly disallow, revoke & annul all & every other Testament, Will, Legacies, Bequests & Executors by me in any wise before named, willed or bequeathed ratifying & confirming this. Whereof I have hereunto set my hand and Seal this ninth day of September in the Year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred & eighteen

Signed Sealed pronounced published & declared

by the sd. Jabez as his last Will & Testament in presence of us

        Ebenezer Lobdell                                                                                                         Jabez Loring                                     (seal)

        Nathl. Morton

        Thos. B. Harrub.

 

Presented for probate on 3 Nov. 1818 by Deborah Loring, the Executrix therein named, and proved by Ebenezer Lobdell and Thomas B. Harrub, and they with Doctr. Nathaniel Morton subscribed their names together as witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Deborah Loring, the before named Executrix.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 49, p. 510-511, from FHL microfilm #0550905.

 

 

Will of Samuel Loring of Duxbury, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1816) *

        In the name of God amen, I Samuel Loring of Duxbury in the County of Plymouth, being in a low and weak state of Body, but of sound disposing Mind & memory, blessed be God for the same have made & do make and ordain this to be my last Will and Testament, that is to say –

        I wish all my just Debts Legacies be paid by Executor out of my Estate with my funeral Charges & the Expences of settling my Estate. –

        I give & bequeath to my Wife the whole Improvement of my real Estate during her Life, & all my personal Estate as her own property forever. —

        I give & devise to my Son Samuel after his mother’s decease the whole of my real Estate as his own property forever, provided that he the said Samuel shall live on said Farm & take care of his Mother while she lives, but if he when of Age or twenty one years, shall choose to quit or leave said Farm, then the said Farm to be equally divided between my Heirs, giving to my said Son Samuel five hundred Dollars before said Division —

        I give & bequeath to my Daughter Lucy one hundred Dollars with as much Furniture as I gave my other Daughters, also my will is, that she live with her mother while unmarried & be provided for by her Mother & as long as she shall remain unmarried, & so long as she shall remain unmarried after her mother’s decease, to improve one quarter part of my homestead Farm & convenient room in the Dwelling house. —

        Also I give and bequeath to my two Daughters Hannah & Prudence after their Mother’s Decease one hundred & fifty Dollars, & to my said Daughter Lucy, besides what I have already given her, one Hor, one hundred fifty dollars, when she shall be married. —

        And I do constitute & appoint my said Wife Executor to this my last Will & Testament

        In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this fourth day of April in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred & sixteen. —

Signed, sealed & declared to be his last Will & Testament before us,

who in presence of him & at his request & in presence of

each other have subscribed our Names as Witnesses. –                                               Samuel Loring                                  (seal)

                Benjamin Alden

                Judah Loring

                Levi Loring Jr.

 

Presented for probate on 5 Nov. 1816 by Prudence Loring, the Executrix therein named, and proved by Judah Loring and Levi Loring Junr., two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Prudence Loring, the before named Executrix.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 48, p. 226-227, from FHL microfilm #0550905.

 

 

Will of Azel Lothrop of West Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1832) *

Be it remembered that I, Azel Lothrop of West Bridgewater in the County of Plymouth Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Yeoman, do on this fourth day of January, in the year of our Lord one thousand, eight hundred & thirty two make and publish this my last will and Testament in manner following Viz.          In the first place I give and bequeath unto my two Sons, Viz John and Azel, eight thirty-six parts each of all my Real Estate, that I may die seized of, to them their heirs and assigns forever, to come into possession of the premises at my decease, except such parts as shall be hereafter excepted. I also give unto my two sons John & Azel equally all my wearing apparel. I furthermore give unto my son John a pair of yearling steers, one sheep, my Ox wagon, one Iron bar, two Iron ploughs, two draft chains, one dung fork, a pronged hoe, a scythe and snath, a rake and two pitch forks. I also give unto my son Azel a yearling heifer and my silver watch, to be kept by my Executrix hereafter named until he arrives to the age of eighteen then my will is that she deliver it to him in good repair.

Secondly, I give and bequeath unto my five daughters, Viz Philene, Sarah, Sylvia, Anna & Nesta four thirty-six parts each of all my real Estate to them their heirs and assigns forever, they to come into possession of the premises at my decease, except such parts as shall be hereafter excepted. I also give unto my three oldest daughters, Viz Philene Sarah & Sylvia, a cow each at my decease, also one half part of my winter rye, when come to maturity

Thirdly, I give & bequeath unto my wife Anna Lothrop the use and improvement of one third part of all my real Estate, during her natural life also one half part of my winter rye when come to maturity.

Fourthly & lastly, I do hereby constitute and ordain my wife Anna Lothrop, sole Executor of this my last Will and Testament. Feeling myself under moral obligation to support my aged wife’s Mother during her natural life, therefore I order my executrix to maintain her aged Mother during her natural life Also I order my Executrix to pay all my just debts and funeral charges. And in order to enable my Executrix to carry the provisions of this my last will & testament into execution according to their true intent & meaning, I will and bequeath unto my wife Anna Lothrop, executrix of this my last will and Testament all the residue of my personal estate to her, her heirs and assigns forever –

In testimony whereof, I do hereunto set my hand & seal, the day and year first herein before written.

                                                                                                                                                Azel Lothrop                                      (seal)

Signed sealed and published by the said Azel Lothrop, declaring this to be his last will and testament in presence of us who at his request were called as witnesses to the same and in his presence did hereunto subscribe our names.

                                                                                                                                                                                Zephaniah Howard

                                                                                                                                                                                Lebbeus Packard

                                                                                                                                                                                Nathan Packard

 

Presented for probate on 3 Apr. 1832, and proved by Lebbeus Packard and Nathan Packard, two of the witnesses.

 

Lebbeus Packard, Jonas Hartwell and Benjamin Marshall, all of West Bridgewater, all freeholders, were appointed to set off one third part of the real estate of Azel Lothrop, late of West Bridgewater, Yeoman, to his widow Anna Lothrop as her dower in the said real estate for her use during her natural life, on 3 Apr. 1832. The division was dated 7 Apr. 1832, and was approved on 1 May 1832.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 72, pp. 116-118, 182-183, from FHL microfilm #0555261.

 

 

Will of Seth Lothrop of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1800) *

In the Name of God Amen. – I, Seth Lothrop of Bridgwater in the County of Plymouth, yeoman, being of sound disposing mind & memory, thanks be to God for the same do this nineteenth day of April, in the year of our Lord eighteen hundred, make, publish, pronounce & declare this my last will & testament, as followeth – vizt ~

Imprimis – I will, that all my debts, funeral charges, & such legacies as is herein after willed & given, shall be paid by my Executor herein after named, & out of such part of my estate as can be most conveniently spared, & be the least prejudicial to the remaining part of my sd. estate herein after given & disposed of

Item – I Give and bequeath to my daughter Susanna, who was married to Calvin Kinsley & is now his wife, so far as I know, the sum of Ten Dollars, to be paid into her hand, if she be living, if not, to be equally divided between all her children, by my Executor herein after named, this together with what I have heretofore given her, I consider to be her full share of my estate

Item – I Give & bequeath to my son Seth Lothrop junr. five Dollars, to be paid him by my Executor, herein after named, within six months after my decease, this, together with what I have heretofore done for him, I consider to be his share in full of my estate, that I intend for him.

Item – I Give & bequeath, to my two grand children (to wit) Seth Fobes & Mehitabel Fobes, children of my daughter Mehitable, deceased, who was the wife of Alpheus Fobes, two dollars to each of them, to be paid by my Executor, herein after named, when they shall arrive to the age of twenty one Years, this, together with what I have heretofore given to my daughter Mehitable in her life time, I consider to be the full share of my estate that I intended for my sd. daughter now deceased.

  Item – I Give, Devise & bequeath to my three grand-children (to wit) Barzillai Lothrop, Cyrus Lothrop & Bille Lothrop, children of my son Seth Lothrop junr. their heirs & assigns forever three quarters of my homestead farm, whereon I now live including three quarters of all the buildings thereon, together with three quarters of all my out lands that doth of right to me belong, wheresoerver the same may lie or howsoever it may be situated, that shall remain after paying & satisfying my debts, funeral charges, legacies &c, and to be equally divided between them, and they & each of them my grand children to come into possession of their several shares when they shall arrive to the age of twenty one years; and my will is that the rents & profits arising from the use & improvements of the two shares which I have herein given to my two grandsons Barzillai & Cyrus shall be uniformly appropriated to their use & benefit, and that no wood or timber shall be cut on their shares or parts, so long as they shall remain minors except for the repair of fences or buildings on their parts and the land when rented out shall be so restricted as not to impoverish the fertility of the soil, and my will is & I do hereby order and direct, that my nephew Josiah Lothrop junr. shall take into his care & possession the two shares or parts which I have herein given to my two grandsons before named, during their minorship he giving sufficient bonds to the Judge of of Probate to account for the same . .

And, in consideration of the kind care & tender usage which I have recieved from my daughter in law Abigail Lothrop the wife of my son Seth Lothrop junr. I am disposed to make provision for her comfortable support, providing she can have the sole benefit there of, therefore conditionally, I give, devise and bequeath to her the said Abigail Lothrop, the wife of my son Seth Lothrop junr. the use & improvement of the remaining quarter part of all my land & buildings, as is herein before mentioned & described, with the use & improvement of the share or part, which I have herein before willed & given to my grand-daughter Bette Lothrop, for and during the continuance of the intermarriage of the said Abigail with my sd. son Seth Lothrop junr. for one quarter part, and the other quarter or share untill my grand daughter Bette before named shall arrive to the age of twenty one years, ye sd. Abigail to recieve only the rents & profits of said use & improvements of sd land & buildings to her sole use & benefit, as tho’ she were a feme sole independent of the sd Seth, and in case the sd Seth or any of his Creditors, or any other person or persons by or under him, or by his or their procurement, by means of her intermarriage with him ye. sd. Seth Lothrop junr shall molest, trouble or debar ye. sd. Abigail, the wife of my said son Seth from using, occupying & improving sd. lands, during her coverture, or shall ask, request or demand the rents, profits issues of said land & buildings, during her intermarriage with ye. sd. Seth in virtue of such marriage, or, on any account or pretence whatever, then and in such case, I will, devise & bequeath, the use, occupation & improvements of ye. aforesaid two quarters or shares of all my land & buildings, (so given, devised & bequeathed to ye. sd Abigail, as aforesaid) with all the rents, profits & issues thereof to my nephew Josiah Lothrop junr son of my brother Josiah Lothrop for so long time & no longer, as the intermarriage of the sd. Seth Lothrop junr. with ye. sd. Abigail shall continue, upon condition, that, the said Josiah shall and do out of the monies arising from the rents & profits of sd. lands & buildings generously, contribute at his discretion to the relief of my daughter in law Abigail aforesaid annually, to the full amount of such rents & profits, if necessary, and my will is, and I further order that the said Josiah when he shall give any sum or sums of money to ye sd Abigail, he take a receipt therefor of her ye. said Abigail, and in case it shall so happen, that, the ye. sd Abigail shall die while she remains under the coverture of the said Seth as her lawful husband, then & in that case – I give devise & bequeath the other quarter part of all my land & buildings not herein before dispose of, to my three grand children namely Barzillai Lothrop, Cyrus Lothrop & Bette Lothrop, herein before named, their heirs & assigns forever, to be equally divided, also, all the rest & residue of all the rents, profits and issues, if any such there shall be in the hands of him ye. said Josiah Lothrop junr. which he hath not contributed, and given to her the said Abigail while living, provided nevertheless if it shall otherwise happen, that is if my sd. son Seth Lothrop junr. shall first die, and she the said Abigail shall survive him, or if she shall obtain at any time a lawful divorcement from him ye sd. Seth, her said husband then and in either case my will is, and I give, devise & bequeath to her the said Abigail (who is now the wife of my said son Seth) her heirs & assigns forever the aforesaid one quarter part of all my homestead farm, with one quarter part of all the buildings, together with a quarter part of all my out lands wheresoever the same may lye or howsoever the same may be situated, and the same quarter part to be divided and set off, quantity & quality of the whole considered, together with all the rest & residue of all ye rents profits & issues, if any such there shall be in the hands of him, the said Josiah Lothrop junr., which he hath not contributed & given to her the said Abigail, while under the coverture of a husband, and my will is expressly that in any or either case herein before stated, the said Abigail shall not be benefitted in any way or manner from the use & improvement of ye share which I have herein before given to my grand daughter Bette Lothrop before named for any longer time than untill she shall arrive to the age of twenty one years, and if there shall be any personal estate remain after executing this my last will & testament in every part matter, manner & thing, and satisfy all expences, I give & bequeath the same to my three grand children vizt. Barzillai Lothrop, Cyrus Lothrop & Bette Lothrop to be equally divided. And – I do hereby ordain, constitute & appoint my nephew Josiah Lothrop junr. to be sole Executor of this my last will & testament, & I do hereby revoke, disallow & render null & void, all other & former wills, ratifying & confirming this & this only as & for my last will & testament – In Witness whereof I the said Seth Lothrop the testator have hereunto set my hand & seal the day & year first above written ~

Signed, Sealed Published & Pro-                                                                                      Seth Lothrop                                      (seal)

nounced & declared by the said

Seth Lothrop ye. testator as & for his

last will & testament in ye. presence

of us, who by his request & in his

presence, & we in ye presence of each

other have hereunto subscribed our

names as witnesses

                John Snow

                Josiah Lothrop ~

                Daniel Snow ~

 

Presented for probate on 26 March 1804 by Josiah Lothrop junr, the Executor therein named, and proved by Danl. Snow Esqr. and Mr John Snow, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Josiah Lothrop junr. ye. before named Executor.

 

Daniel Snow Esqr, Ephraim Snell Gentleman, and John Snow yeoman, all of Bridgwater, were appointed to appraise the estate of Seth Lothrop, late of Bridgwater, yeoman, on 26 Mar. 1804. The Inventory of the estate of Seth Lothrop, late of Bridgwater, was dated 19 May 1804, but not totaled, his real estate valued at $3045.00, and $150 in quick stock. Seth [sic] Lothrop, the Executor to the Will of Seth Lothrop, deceased, gave his oath to the inventory on 4 June 1804. Josiah Lothrop, the Executor, gave notice his administration of the estate.

Daniel Snow Esqr, Barnabas Dunbar yeoman, and Alpheus Leach Gentleman, all of Bridgwater, were appointed to divide the common and undivided real estate between the heirs of Seth Lothrop deceased and David Lothrop, of Bridgwater, yeoman, on 7 Aug. 1804. The division, dated 13 Sept. 1804, was approved 4 Oct. 1804.

Daniel Snow Esqr, Alpheus Leach Gentleman, and Barnabas Dunbar yeoman, all of Bridgwater, were appointed to divide the Real Estate of Seth Lothrop, late of Bridgwater, yeoman, and set off to Barzillai Lothrop and Cyrus Lothrop one Moiety thereof, on 7 Aug. 1804. The division, dated 5 Oct. 1805, was approved on 7 Oct. 1805.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 38, p. 530-533, from FHL microfilm #0550720, and Vol. 40, p. 73-76.

 

 

Will of Benoni Lucas of Plympton, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1730) *

In the Name of GOD Amen. This twelfth Day of february In ye Year of or Lord, one thousand Seven hundred & twenty nine, thirty. I Benoni Lucas of Plympton in ye County of Plymouth in New-England, being Extreamly sick in Body But of a Disposing mind & memory, not knowing how soon my Change may come do make & ordain this my Last Will & Testament & do Dispose of wt of this wordly Goods it hath pleased GOD to Bestow upon me in this manner following viz.

Imprimis I do Commend my Soul to GOD yt gave it trusting in Christ alone for Salvation, I do also Commit my Body to the Earth to be buryed after a Christian & Decent manner at ye Discretion of my Execrs, trusting yt it shall be raised at the Last Day by ye mighty Power of GOD to a glorious immortality—

Item. as to my worldly Goods, my will is that yy be be disposed of in manner following, my Just Debts & funeral Charges being first payd.

Imprimis. It Do Give & Bequeath Unto my well beloved Wife Repentance Lucas a third part of all my moveable Estate & after her to be divided Equally to & among my four Daughters—

Item. I Give & Bequeath to my Son Samll Lucas my arms.

Item I also Give & Bequeath to my two Sons Samuel and Elisha Lucas all my wearing apparel, with my Lands, meadows, Houses & Cedar Swamps in Plympton or Else where (as by Deeds bearing Date ye 27 May 1727) Excepting a Lot of Land in the fifth Great Lot in ye last Division in Plymouth which Sd Lot I Give to my Wife to be Disposed as She sees Cause, if not Disposed in her life time after her to be Divided among her four Daughters

Item. My will is that my Silver money be Equally Distributed & Divided amongst my Children.

Item I Give to my Daughter Mary the Wife of Jno Wright the sum of five pounds in Province Bills to be paid by my Executors hereafter named.

Item. I also Give to my Daughter Bethiah Lucas thirty pounds in province Bills to be paid by ye Executors; & the Best Bed & furniture.

Item. My will is yt the Remaining part of my moveable Estate Except what is Disposed of by this Will, be Equally Distributed & Divided among my four Daughters, at my decease.

Lastly, I Ordain & appoint my two Sons Samuel & Elisha my Sole Executor of this my last Will & Testament, Hoping that this my last Will & Testament Shall Remain, Utterly Revoking & disannulling all former Wills & Testaments whatsoever by me appointed & ordained.

In Testimony whereof I have hereunto Set my Hand & affixed my Seal ye Day & year above written.

Signed Sealed & Declared by ye sd

Benoni Lucas to be his Last Will

& Testament In Presence

of us.—                                                                                                                                  Benoni Lucas                                    (seal)

George Barrow

Joseph Lucas

Lazarus Le Baron

 

Presented for probate and proved on 10 Apr. 1730 by George Barrow and Joseph Lucas, and on 1 May 1730 by Lazarus Le Baron.

Letters of administration on the Estate of Capt. Benoni Lucas, late of Plympton, were granted to Saml Lucas and Elisha Lucas, sons of the deceased, on 1 May 1730.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Benoni Lucas, late of Plimton, was appraised by George Barrow, Nathanael Atwood, and Joseph Lucas on 6 July 1730, and totaled £269.20.11, plus debts due & owing to the estate worth £209.20.11. Samuel Lucas and Elisha Lucas, the administrators, gave their oath to the inventory on 16 Sept. 1730.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth Co. Probate Vol. 5, pp. 693-696, 788-789, from FHL microfilm #0550511.

 

 

Will of Elisha Lucas of Plympton, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1753) *

In the Name of God Amen.

                Elisha Lucas of the Town of Plimton in the County of Plimouth in New England, Yeoman, Labouring under Infirmities of Body, but of Perfect and Disposing memory, thanks be Given unto Almighty God for the same, but calling to mind the Mortality of My body, and knowing that it is appointed for all men Once to dye doe make and Ordain This my Last Will and Testament,

        Imprs  I Will and Bequeath my Soul unto Almighty God that Gave it and my body unto the dust to be Decently buried @ the Discretion of My Executor, and Touching such worldly Estate wherewith God hath blessed me with I dispose of as follows.

                Item I Give unto my Loving wife Margerett Lucas the Improvment of One third part of my Homstead and the one Third part of my Meadows Lying on the Southerly Side of South Meadow River. Togather with one half of My dwelling House So Long as She continues my Widow. Togather with one Third part of my Moveable Estate, both within Doors & without after my Just Debts and Funerall Charges are paid out to be at her Dispose,

        Item I Give to Ruth Lucas Widow of my Beloved Son James Lucas decd. The Improvment of one Third part of the land and meadow I bought of Collo. Lothrop Decd. Togather with the Improvment of one third part of the House and Barn Standing on the same So Long as she continues his Widow

  Item I Give unto Samuell Lucas and James Lucas, the two Sons of my Beloved Son James Lucas decd. Equally between them all My Land and Meadow I bought of Colo. Lothrop aforesaid, to them or the Surviver of them, and in case they both Die before they arrive to Twenty one Years of Age, then the said Lands and Meadow to Return to my three Sons Elkanah Benoni and Elisha Lucas,

  Item I Give unto my Beloved Son Elkanah Lucas the one Half of the Upland and Buildings on which I now Dwell Togather with a Certain Peice of meadow Lying, begining @ Abiel Lucas’s Meadow, down Stream to a Certain Criek also an addition of meadow @ the Oakes, the one half of that Meadow which I bought of Joseph Pearce & Hannah Pearce, and also a peice of meadow @ the Oakes which I bought of Jabez Nye and also all my Right in the fifth Great Lott of Ceaderswamp and also one third part of my right @ the new Meadows lying with George Barrows & others togather One third Part of my Farming utencills and one third part of wareing apparell, and also One third part of my Right in the Furnase

  Item. I Give unto my Beloved Son Benoni Lucas a certain Lot of Land @ the New Meadows, which was layed out unto the Right of Thomas Holmes, and also a Lott of Land in the first Great Lott Joyning to John Murdock’s Land and so To Crane Brook, with an addition of four Acres & three quarters Lying @ a place called Rockey Plane; and also all my Right of Ceaderswamp Lying @ the new Meadows; and also one third part of my meadow @ the new meadows @ a place called Ransom’s Island; and also a Quarter part of the meadow my Hond. Father Gave to me, which was Formerly John Morton’s Togather with one Third part of Right in the furnace & one Third part of my Farming utencills and also one third part Of My Wareing apparell, and also all my Right in the saw Mill @ Lamen-ham,

  Item I Give unto my Beloved Son Elisha Lucas the one Halfe of the upland and Buildings on which I now dwell Togather with a Certain Peice of meadow @ a Certain Criek and So down Stream to Moses Barrows’s meadow; and also Apeice of meadow On the north Side of the River Lying between Thomas Jackson’s Meadow, and Moses Barrow’s which was Formerly Jabez Nye’s; and also Three quarters of my Meadow which my Hond. Father Gave to me, which was Formerly John Morton’s; and also one third part of my Right @ the New Meadow’s which Lyeth with George Barrow’s & others and also all my Right of Cederswamp in the Seventh Great Lott in Partnership with Moses Barrows and others and also One Third part of my Farming utencills, and one third Part of my wareing apparell, and also my Gun & Swornd,

  Item I Give unto my Daughters Elizabeth Atwood the wife of Frances Atwood, and Sarah Murdoch the wife of Bartlett Murdoch, Equally between them, One Third part of Moveable Estate after my Just Debts and Funerall charges are paid out, this with what I have Already Given them I esteam their Proportion of My Estate,  Lastly I nominate and appoint my Loving son Elkanah Lucas to be the Sole Execr. of this my Last Will & Testament, Hereby Revoking all other and former Wills (either writen or Verbill, by me heretofore made or on, Hereby Ratifying and Confirming this My Last Will and Testament – to Remain firm and Inviolable, In Testimony whereof I the Said Elisha Lucas hereunto Set My hand and Seal the Seventh day of July One thousand seven Hundred & fifty three 1753

        Signed Sealed, Pronounced &

Declared by the Aforesaid Elisha                                                                                     Elisha Lucas                      (seal)

Lucas to be His Last Will and

Testament, In Presence of us

Moses Barrows

Repentance Bennett

Jonathan Shaw Junr

 

Presented for probate on 5 July 1756 by the Executor therein named, and proved by Moses Barrows, Repentance Bennett and Jonathan Shaw Junr, the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Elkanah Lucas of Plimton, the Executor, on 5 July 1756.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Elisha Lucas late of Plimton was appraised on 10 July 1756 by Rowland Hammond, Saml. Lucas and Moses Barrows, but not totaled, his homestead and buildings thereon valued at £177. Elkanah Lucas, the Executor, gave is oath to the inventory on 20 July 1756.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 14, pp. 130-132, 164-165, from FHL microfilm #0551542.

 

 

Will of Joseph Lucas of Plympton, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1741) *

In the Name of God Amen, Joseph Lucas of the Town of Plymton in the County of Plymouth in New England yeoman, Labouring under many Infirmitys of body which are Symtoms of Approaching Mortallity but of perfect & disposeing Memory Thanks be Given unto Allmighty God for the same But Calling to mind the mortallity of my body, and knowing that it is appointed for all men once to dye, Do make and ordain this my last will and Testament—

Imprimis, I will and bequeath my Soul unto God that gave it me, and my body to the dust to be Decently buried at the Discretion of my Executor hereafter named nothing doubting but at the Generall Resurrection I shall Receive ye same again by the Mighty power of God—

Item, I will and bequeath unto my loveing wife Meletiah Lucas, one third part of my moveable Estate after my Just debts, and funerall Charges are paid out of them, and also one third part of the improvement of my real Estate so long as she shall remain my widdow with ye one half of the profits of my part of a furnace for ye spare of two years after my decease all which I give unto my Loving wife so long as she shall remain my widdow (Excepting my part of ye furnace) which is given unto her for the spare of Two years after my Decease and no longer,  But if in Case She Shall Marry again, She shall have only the Sum of Fifty pounds in bills of Creditt or in moveable Estate to ye Value thereof Valued Equal to Silver money at the rate of twenty Six shillings & Eight pence Pr Ounce, to be her own forever and the Residue of my Estate I dispose of in ye following maner.

Item, I give and bequeath unto my Loving son John Lucas all that part of my homestead Containd within the following boundaries (vizt) Begining at a pine tree marked with Stones a bout it on the Southwesterly side of the way and thence bounded by sd way untill it Comes Three pole to the Southward of my Dwelling house & thence to Range Such a point of Compass as will Strike ye South east corner of the Land belonging unto ye Heirs of Capt. John Dyer Deceased and thence by the land belonging unto sd heirs untill it comes to a pine tree which is the Northwest Corner bounds of the twenty acre lott of land I bought of Thomas Pratt, and thence on a Streight Line unto the bounds first mentiond with all the buildings thereon Standing, I Allso give unto my sd Son my Smiths Shop and Tools, And also my meadow at the place Called Little Cove, and also my Twenty acres of land lying adjoyning unto John’s Pond so Called which my honourd Father bought of David Evans, I also give unto my sd son, The one half of my Six Acres of meadow That I have lying at a place Called Donhams Cove in Plymton afored. I allso give unto my sd Son the One half of my Seven acres of land I bought of Joseph Cole lying in said Plymton,  I allso give unto my sd Son One Third Part of my Cedar Swamp that I have in Beaver Dammd Swamp, I allso Give unto my said Son The whole of my moveable Estate (Excepting) what I shall Give unto my Loveing son Samuell Lucas in this present Will my Wife’s Thirds, and Just debts being first paid out allways provided That he his Heirs Executors, or administrators shall pay or Cause to be paid all my Just Debts and Such Legacies as I Shall appoint him to pay in this will I Do Give The aforesaid Land and Meadow Cedar Swamp and moveables Unto my said son John Lucase and unto his Heirs and assigns forever with my part in a furnace Standing in Plymton aforesaid as soon as the To years is Expired that my wife is to improve it as aforesaid.—

Item, I will and bequeath unto my Loving son Samuell Lucas all that part of my Homestead lying to the Southward of the land I have given to my son in this will Together with my land and meadow lying on the Easterly side of ye aforesd way which is Commonly Called the Cove with all my land lying adjoyning unto Swan hold Cedar Swamp on the Southerly Side and the land of or belonging unto the heirs of Capt John Dyer on the north side, Together with my full Share of the Eighty Acres of Land Granted unto the Children of Joseph Donham Tereaid and allso the one half of my Seven acres of land I bought of Joseph Cole & also my lott of land I have lying adjoyning to Crain Brook & South Meadow Cedar Swamp and allso the one half of my Six Acres of meadow that I have at the aforesd. place Called Donhams Cove: and allso my acre of meadow That I have lying in a place Called Pollipody Cove, and allso one third part of my Cedar Swamp Called Beaver Dam Swamp, and allso One yoke of oxen and all my farming Utensils & Cart Tackling with the One half of my wearing apparell with my best Gun and Sword, all the aforesd Land meadows Ceader Swamp and moveables I do Give unto my sd son and unto his heirs & assigns forever

Item, I Will and Bequeath unto my Loving son Barnabas Lucas all that my farm I bought of Edward Cole lying in Plymton aforesd. adjoyning to the land of Joseph Thomas Esqr. Together with the Dwelling house thereon standing with my meadow at Dotens Meadows so Called with my half Gristmill adjoyning to my sd farm and allso one Third Part of my Cedar Swamp in Beaver Dam swamp for him to Come into the Possession of when he shall arrive unto Twenty One years of age, I allso Give unto my said son my Other Gun & Sword all which sd Land and meadow and Ceader Swamp I do give unto my sd Son Barnabas Lucas and unto his heirs & assigns forever allways provided he his heirs or assigns Shall pay unto my loving Daughter Patience Lucas ye sum of Eighty pound, in bills of Credit Valued Equal to Silver money at twenty six shillings & Eight pence P Ounce and pay the same to her within One year after he shall Come into the possession of the abovesd. Farm and mill—

Item I will and Bequeath unto my Loving Daughter Hannah Lucas The sum of one hundred & Ten pounds in bills of Creditt valued Equal to Silver money at Twenty Six Shillings and Eight pence pr. Ounce or in moveable Estate to the Value thereof to be paid her by my Executor within Twelve months after my Decease, I do allso give unto my said Daughter the profits or neat produce of One quarter part of a Grist mill untill my Son Barnabas Lucas Shall arrive to the age of twenty One years as aforesd. all which sd Sum of One hundred and ten pounds with the improvement of ye quarter part of the Gristmill as Aforesaid, I do Give unto my sd loving Daughter and unto her heirs and assigns forever.—

Item I will and bequeath unto my loving Daughter Patience Lucas The Sum of One hundred & ten pounds in bills of Credit Equal to Silver money at Twenty Shillings & Eight pence pr. Ounce or in moveable Estate To the value thereof (That is to say) Eighty pounds there of to be paid her by my Son Barnabas as aforesd and thirty pounds there of to be paid her by my Executor within one year after my Decease all which sd money or moveables I do give unto my Loving daughter Patience Lucas and unto her heirs and assigns forever—

Item, I Will and bequeath unto my Loving son Samuel Lucas as an addition of what I have allready given him in this will the sum of Sixty pounds in money or in Moveables to be paid him by my Executor Equal to the money Stated in the aforesd. Legacys within Two years after my Decease which said Sum of Sixty pounds I do Give unto my sd Son Samuel Lucas and unto his heirs and assigns forever ~~ Item I give unto My Loving son John Lucas all the Residue of my Estate both Real and personal whatsoever and wheresoever it may be found he paying my Just Debts and the Legacies I have appointed him to pay as aforesaid.—

Lastly I nominate and appoint my Loving son John Lucas to be the Sole Executor of this my last Will and Testament hereby Revokeing all other and former Wills Either written or Verbal by Me heretofore made or done hereby Ratyfying and Confirming this My Last Will to Remain firm and Inviolable  In Testymony wherof I the Aforesd. Joseph Lucas have hereunto Sett my hand and Seal the twenty third day of February in the year of our Lord one Thousand Seven hundred and forty one

Signed Sealed pronounced                                                                                                Joseph Lucas                    (seal)

and Declared by the said Joseph

Lucas to be his Last Will

and Testament in presence of us

William Lucas

Benajah Pratt

                   his

Abraham A.I. Jackson

                 mark

 

Plymo. Sc, Septr 22nd 1742 This will being presented by the Execr for probate The sd William Lucas Benajah Pratt and Abraham Jackson made oath yt they Saw sd Joseph Lucas sign Seal and Deliver this Instrument as his last will & Testament and that they in his Presence at ye Same time Subscribed as Witnesses and that he was then of Sound mind—

Before me Jno Cushing Judge of Probt.

 

John Lucas, of Plymton, yeoman, the Executor, was granted administration of the estate of Joseph Lucas, late of Plymton, yeoman, on 22 Sept. 1742.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 9, p. 1-3.

 

 

Will of Samuel Lucas of Plymouth, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1715) *

To all Persons to whome these presents may Come I Samuel Lucas - Senr of the Town of Plymouth within the County of Plymouth in New-England being weak of body through age Sicknes but of proper & disposing memory & Sound understanding (blessed by God) Yet not knowing how soon it may please god to Change my Sickness & life to death, do therefore make and ordain and by these presents I do make & Ordaine these presents to be my last Will & Testament to stand good & to remain firm & Inviolable in Manner & form following

Imprs And Will & bequeath my Soul to God which gave it me and my body to the dust to be decently buried. And for the outward Estate that god hath given me I dispose of as followeth.

Item I give to my Son Joseph all my lands and meadow to the Southward & westward of his house and also my Lot of Cedar Swamp in the first Lott and      Lott of meadow in Swan hole upon Condition Joseph give William a deed of his at Swan hole. And I give to my wife my homstead dwelling house and out houseing and all my lands that I have not given to Joseph and my Lott of Cedar Swamp in the Sixth Lott dureing her life or widdowhood and I do give her leave to Sell my thirty acre Lott of Land to the northward of Darbys pond if She Standeth in Need and I give her the best bed for ever, and at her decease or Marriage I do give to my Son William all my houseing and Lands that I have not given to Joseph, and also one third part of the moveables I give to William both within doors & without and one third part of them to Joseph both within doors and without with what he hath had already and one third part to Patience both within doors and without, and what that wants of fifty pounds William to make it up when he Comes upon the land and my wife to have all the moveables til She pleaseth her Childrean Shall have them or dureing her widdowhood, and I order and Appoint my beloved wife to administer upon the Estate hopeing this my Will & Testament will be kept & performed revokeing all other Wills either verbal or written I have hereunto Set my hand and Seal on the fourth day of July 1715          Samll Lucas Senr           (seal)

John Doten

Abraham Jackson Senr

 

PlymSs On the 8th day of March 1715/16 The Witness John Doten & Abraham Jackson made oath that they saw the above named Samuel Lucas Sign & Seal & heard him declare the above written Instrument to be his last Will & testament and that he then was of a disposing mind & memory to the best of their knowledge before me—

                                                                                                                                                                                Nathaniel Thomas Judge

                                                                                                                                                                                                of Probates-

 

The inventory of the Estate of Samuel Lucas, late of Plymouth, dated 2 Mar. 1716, was appraised by Benony Lucas and Benja. Warren, and totaled £169.6.5, including cattle, horses, swine, and farming utensils. Patience Lucas, the relict widow and Executrix of Samuel Lucas, gave her oath to the inventory on 8 Mar. 1715/16.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 3, p. 401-402, from FHL microfilm #0550509.

 

 

Will of William Lucas of Plymouth, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1769) *

                                In the Name of God, Amen.

William Lucas of the town of Plymouth, and county of Plymouth, in New England, yeoman, labouring under many infirmities of body, which are symptoms of approaching mortality, but of perfect and disposing memory, thanks be to Almighty God, for the same, but calling to mind the mortality of my body, knowing that it is appointed for all men once to die, do make and ordain this my last will and testament.—

I will and bequeath my soul to God that gave it me, and my body to the dust, to be decently buried, at the discretion of my executor hereafter-named, nothing doubting but at the general resurrection I shall receive the same again by the mighty power of god. ~~

  Item. I will and bequeath unto my loving son Joseph Lucas all my lands both upland & swamp, which I have lying in the town of Plymouth, lying on the northerly side of the cart-way that leads from Plimton to Plymouth, with all my buildings thereon standing. I also give unto my said son the one half part of my meadow at a place called Four miles brook, with the privilege of fencing on the upland to inclose said meadow, and to cut shiff on the upland to fence said meadow. I also give unto my said son, the one half of the meadow that I own in the town of Plimton, at a place called Swan-hole. I also give unto my said son the one half part of my cedar-swamp at a place called South-meadow swamp. I also give unto my said son the one fourth part of my moveable estate, my just debts & funeral charges being first paid out of them, always provided that he shall pay such legacies as I shall appoint him in this will, he, his heirs, or administrators; all the abovesaid lands & meadow, cedar-swamp, buildings, & moveable estate, I do give unto my said son Joseph Lucas, and unto his heirs & assigns forever.

  Item. I give & bequeath unto my loving son Benjamin Lucas all my lands lying on the southerly side of the cart-way that leads from Plimton to Plymouth, with all my buildings thereon standing. I also give unto my said son all my land at a place called Four-miles-brook Island. I also give unto my said son my eighty acres lot of land lying on South-meadow-plain. I also give unto my said son the one half my meadow lying at a place calld Four-miles brook. I also give unto my said son the one half part of my meadow lying at a place called Swan-hole, in Plimton aforesaid. I also give unto my said son the one half part of my cedar-swamp at a place calld South-meadow-cedar-swamp; I also give unto my said son, the one fourth part of my moveable estate, my just debts & funeral charges being first paid out of them, provided that he, his heirs, or administrators shall pay such legacies as I shall appoint him in this will, all the abovesaid land, meadow, cedar-swamp, buildings & moveable-estate, I give unto my son Benjamin Lucas, and to his heirs & assigns forever. ~~

  Item. I give & bequeath unto my loving daughter Priscilla Robbins, the wife of Eleazer Robbins the one fourth part of my moveable estate my just debts & funeral charges being first paid out of them. I also give unto my said daughter twenty pounds lawful money, to be paid her in money or moveable estate to the value thereof to be paid her with+ two years after my decease, that is to say, ten pounds thereof to be paid her by my loving son Joseph Lucas aforesaid, and ten pounds thereof to be paid to her by my loving son Benjamin Lucas aforesaid.~~ All this I give unto my said daughter Priscilla Robbins & to her heirs & assigns forever.—

  Item. I give and bequeath unto my loving daughter Mehitable Lucas, the one fourth part of my moveable estate, my just debts & funeral charges being first paid out of them. I also give unto my said daughter twenty pounds lawful money to be paid her, by my loving son Joseph Lucas aforesaid, to be paid her in money, or moveable estate to the value thereof, to be paid within two years after my decease, all the above I do give to my said daughter Mehitable Lucas, and to her heirs & assigns forever.—

  Item. I give and bequeath unto my loving grandson Lucas Donham, son of my loving daughter Phœbe Donham deced, the sum of six pounds, thirteen shillings & four pence lawful money, to be paid him by my loving son – Benjamin Lucas aforesaid, to be paid in money, or moveable estate to the value thereof, to be paid within two years after my decease. all this I give unto my grandson Lucas Donham, and to his heirs and assigns forever.—

  Lastly. I nominate & appoint my loving son Joseph Lucas to be the sole executor of this my last will & testament, hereby revoking all other & former wills either written or verbal, by me heretofore made or done, hereby ratifying and confirming this my last will, to remain firm and inviolable. — In testimony whereof I the aforesaid William Lucas have hereunto set my hand and seal, the thirtieth day of August, and in the year of our Lord one thousand, seven hundred, sixty & nine. 1769.

Signed, sealed, & pronounced, & declared by the                                                        William Lucas                                   (seal)

sd. William Lucas to be his last will & testamt.

in presence of us.                 Samuel Lucas

                                                Jacob  X  Doten

                                                Sarah Doten

 

Presented for probate on 1 Jan. 1770 by Joseph Lucas, the executor therein named, and proved by Samuel Lucas and Jacob Doten, two of the witnesses.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 20, p. 304-305, from FHL microfilm #0550711.

 

 

Will of Jedediah Lyon of Middleborough, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1789) *

        In the name of God amen I Jedediah Lyon of Middleborough in the County of Plymouth in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts Yeoman, being somewhat advanced in Life, and under some decays of body, but of a sound and disposing mind and memory, blessed be God for the same, wherefore calling to Mind the Mortality of my Body, & knowing that it is appointed for all men once to die, do make & ordain this to be my last Will & Testament, to remain firm & inviolable forever, principally & first of all, I give & recommend my Soul to God that gave it and my Body to the Dust to be buried in a decent Christian Burial at the discretion of my Executor hereafter named, nothing doubting but that I shall receive the same again at the General Resurrection by the mighty Power of God & as touching such worldly Estate, wherewith it hath pleased almighty God to bless me with, I do dispose of the same in the following manner & form (viz) –

        Imprimis I give and bequeath to my true & well beloved wife Mary Lyon and to her Heirs & assigns forever the one third part of all my personal Estate after my just debts & funeral charges are first paid – And also I give & bequeath to my said beloved wife the use & Improvement of one third part of all my Real Estate so long as she shall remain my Widow and no longer; I mean the same should be for, & I do hereby give them to my sd. beloved Wife as her right of Dower & power of thirds in my Estate —

        Item I give and bequeath to my Son Vinal Lyon & to his Heirs and assigns forever all of my wearing Apparel, which with what Land I have given him by Deed I consider as his Share in my Estate —

        Item I give and bequeath to my Grandson Isaac Lyon, Son to my Son Lemuel Lyon deceased, and to his Heirs and Assigns forever, the one half of the Lands & Meadows lying in my home farm and known by the neck, that is to say the lower end of said neck (and is the same that I reserved in a Deed that I this day gave to my Son Vinal Lyon) together with the privilege of passing to & from said Lands on the neck, reserved in said Deed, I also give to my said Grandson & to his Heirs & assigns forever about three Acres of Land be the same more or less & is the same that I bought of Joseph Leonard as may appear by his Deed bearing Date March the twenty second one thousand seven hundred & eighty four – the same I give to my said Grandson and to his Heirs and assigns forever, with this reserve only, that in case that he should die leaving no lawful Issue, that then in that case, my will is & I do hereby give the same to all of my Children that are or shall be mentioned in this my last will or to their lawful Heirs, to be equally divided amongst them —

        Item I will and bequeath to my five Daughters viz Fear Tomson Molly Tribou, Rebecca Leonard, Phebe Lyon and Lucy Thomas & to their Heirs and assigns forever to be equally divided between them all of the remaining part & residue of all of my Estate, furthermore my Will & Desire is that my said Daughter Phebe should have one Cow towards her share of the abovesd. Estate –

        Lastly my will is & I do hereby appoint my Son-in Law Enoch Thomas as sole Executor to this my Last Will & Testament – Thus hoping that this my last will and Testament will be kept and performed according to the true intent & meaning of the same – In Testimony whereof I the afore named Jedediah Lyon have hereunto set my hand & seal this third day of April in the Year of our Lord seventeen hundred & eighty nine –

signed sealed published pronounced

& declared by the said Jedediah Lyon to be

his last Will & Testament in the presence of us

                John Murdock                                                                                                      Jedidiah Lyon                                   (seal)

                John Murdock junr.

                Isaac Thomson –

 

Presented for probate on 6 March 1807 by Vinal Lyon, Administrator with the Will of the sd. Jedediah annexed, and proved by Isaac Thomson Esqr. and John Murdock, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration with the said Will annexed were granted to Vinal Lyon, (Enoch Thomas the Executor in sd. Will named having removed from this Commonwealth).

 

Isaac Thomson Esqr., John Murdock Gentleman, and Silas White, yeoman, all of Middleborough, were appointed to appraise the estate of Jedediah Lyon, late of sd. Middlebo., Yeoman, on 6 Mar. 1807. The Inventory, dated 11 Mar. 1807, totaled $926.51, including the lands he gave to his Grandson valued at $505. Vinal Lyon, the Administrator on the Estate of Jedediah Lyon, gave his oath to the inventory on 26 Dec. 1808.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 42, pp. 53-54, 442-443, from FHL microfilm #0550902.

 

 

Will of Obadiah Lyon of Halifax, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1846) *

                In the name of God, amen! I, Obadiah Lyon of Halifax, in the County of Plymouth, being weak in body but of sound mind and memory, blessed be Almighty God, for the same, do make and publish this my last will and testament, in manner and form following.

                First; I give and bequeath to my beloved wife Sally Lyon, the use and improvement of all my real estate together with the stock, horse, horse waggon, and farming tools, until my children are all of lawful age, after which to have the use of one third part of my Real Estate, with the use of one third part of the stock, or perhaps it will be better if she and my children can compromise to have one third part of the net profit thereof, in money or produce of the farm, and also the use of as much of my Household furniture as she shall judge necessary.

                2d. I give and bequeath to my beloved children, Alpha, Henry C.  Frederick, Abigail T.  John P.  Lorenzo D.  Edwin, Charles P.  Pryam, William H.  George F. and Lydia C. the residue of my property of whatsoever name or nature to be divided equally between them, with the following exceptions: the share belonging to Alpha Lyon to be retained in the hands of my Executor, to deal out for the use of his family as he shall judge necessary and also the share belonging to John P. Lyon, to be retained in the same manner, and dealt out as aforesaid

                In addition to the share of Abigail, I give as a debt for services in the family the sum two hundred dollars to bear interest from my decease and further, as much of my dwelling house as will make her a comfortable home, so long as she chooses to remain there. To my daughter Lydia C. Lyon, I give the use of such part of my dwelling house, as will make her a comfortable home so long as she chooses to stay there; the share falling to Frederic Lyon to be reduced fifty dollars on account of his note for twenty five dollars, and for eight thousand of shingles, and as the shares are so numerous, a Division of the real estate would greatly reduce the value of the property I would recommend some one who is most able, to purchase the shares, and keep the farm as it now is.

                If any of my sons should wish to build a house on the farm, they can have a house lot by having appraisal and the value thereof taken out of their share.

And I do hereby appoint Edwin Lyon, Executor of this my last will and testament, revoking all former wills by me made.

                In witness whereof, I have hereunto set my hand seal, this 23d day of September. 1846.

                                                                                                                                                Obadiah Lyon                                   (seal)

Signed, sealed, published and declared by the above named Obadiah Lyon, to be his last Will and Testament in the presence of us, who, at his request and in his presence have hereunto subscribed our names as witnesses.

                                                                                                                                                Cyrus Morton

                                                                                                                                                Chas H. Paine

                                                                                                                                                Mehitable Bourne

 

Presented for probate on the first Tuesday of Nov. 1846 by Edwin Lyon, the Executor therein named, and proved by Cyrus Morton and Charles H. Paine, two of the witnesses.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 88, p. 465-468, from FHL microfilm #0555638.

 

 

Will of Phebe Lyon of Middleborough, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1838) *

        Be it Remembered that I Phebe Lyon of Middleborough in the County of Plymouth Single Woman being weak in body but of sound mind and memory do this twenty seventh day of October in the year of our Lord Eighteen Hundred and thirty Eight, Make and publish this my last Will and Testament in manner following that is to say, I give to my sister Rebecca Leonard and my sister Lucy Thomas two sixth parts of all my Real and personal Estate that I may leave at my decease that is after my Just debts and funeral charges are paid, and the remaining four sixth parts of all my Real and personal estate, I give to the children of my deceased Brothers Lemuel Lyon, Vinal Lyon and the children of my deceased sisters, namely the children of Mary Trilou and Fear Thompson that is to say that may be at my decease living to have and to hold the same to them their heirs and assigns forever. and lastly I do constitute and ordain my nephew Isaac Lyon and Samuel Thompson Esqr. as sole Executors, of this my last will and testament.

        In witness whereof, I do hereunto set my hand and seal the day and year above written

                                                                                                                                                           her

                                                                                                                                                Phebe  X  Lyon                    (seal)

                                                                                                                                                         mark

        Signed sealed published pronounced and declared by the said Phebe Lyon as for her last will and testament in the presence of us, who at her request and in her presence hereunto set our names as witnesses to the same

                                                                                                                                                                Seth Eaton

                                                                                                                                                                Luther Murdock

                                                                                                                                                                Lewis Eaton

 

Presented for probate on the third Monday in January 1839 by Isaac Lyon and Samuel Thompson, the Executors, and proved by Seth Eaton and Luther Murdock, two of the witnesses.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 81, p. 42-43, from FHL microfilm #0555266.

 

 

Will of Elias Magoun of Pembroke, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1823) *

In the name of God Amen. Be it known that I Elias Magoun of Pembroke in the County of Plymouth Gentleman, considering the uncertainty of life, and the certainty of death, being weak in body but of sound & disposing mind, do make & ordain this my last Will & Testament in manner & form following. I commend my soul to God who gave it, and my body to decent christian burial. After the payment of my just debts and expenses I give all my Personal Estate to my beloved wife Esther Magoun at her disposal, & the use & improvement of all my real Estate so long as she remains my Widow. At the expiration of the above mentioned time, I give & devise all my Property Real & personal, to my four sons Elias Magoun, Calvin Magoun, John Magoun & Luther Magoun in equal shares, & to their heirs & assigns forever, I give to my son William Magoun the money expended for his Education at Brown University.

And I hereby constitute & appoint my beloved wife Esther Magoun sole Executrix of this my last Will & Testament. Given under my hand & seal this Sixth day of September in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred & twenty three~

Signed, Sealed, & declared to be his last

Will & Testament in presense of us, who at his                                                             Elias Magoun                                   (seal)

request & in presence of each other have hereunto

subscribed our names as witnesses

                Anthony Collomore

                Lydia Magoun

                Celia Hatch

 

Presented for probate on 7 Sept. 1823 by Esther Magoun, the Executrix therein named, and proved by Anthony Collamore and Lydia Magoun, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Esther Magoun, the before named Executrix.

 

Benjamin Rogers of Pembroke, Yeoman, Asaph Magoun, Yeoman, and Anthony Collamore, of Pembroke, Physician, were appointed to appraise the estate of Elias Magoun, late of Pembroke, Gentleman, on 7 Oct. 1823. The Inventory of the estate of Elias Magoun, late of Pembroke, dated 26 Dec. 1823, totaled $4566.93, including his real estate valued at $3448. Esther Magoun, the Executrix, gave her oath to the inventory on 17 May 1824.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 57, p. 331-332, from FHL microfilm #0550909, and Vol. 58, p. 132-133.

 

 

Will of Daniel Maltbie of Branford, New Haven County, Colony of Connecticut (1731) *

The Last will and Testament of Daniel Maltbie of Branford in ye County of New Haven & Colony of Conecticutt in New England Yeoman Made this Twenty Second Day of December Anno Domi 1731 is as follows Viz  Calling to mind the mortality of my body being at present of Parfect mind and memory but Knowing that is appointed for all men once to Dye Do there fore make and ordain this my Last will and Testament that is to Say principally & first of all I Give and Recommend my Soul into ye Hands of God who Gave it and my Body to the Earth to be buried in Decent Christian Burial at ye Discretion of my Executors nothing Doubting but at the General resurrection I Shall receive the Same again by the mighty Power of God:  And as Touching Such worldly Estate wherewith it hath pleased God to bless me in this Life I Give Demise & Dispose of ye Same in ye following manner & form~~

Imps.  I Give and Bequeath unto my Dearly beloved wife Esther one Third part of all my Houseing Lands & Personal Estate after all my Just Debts are Satisfied the real Estate During Life and the personal forever ~~

and then 2ndly I Give and bequeath unto my three Sons Joseph Daniel & Benjamin all my Housing & Lands and right of Lands wheresoever and to be Equally Divided between them (including my Wives third part in Each parcel and in Case Providence Should order it that any one of my sd Sons Should Decease before he arive at the age of twenty one years than the Survivers or my Sons Shall have the Same Equally between them and Shall pay to Each of my Daughters in money or equivalent thereto one Sixth part of that part of my Estate which Did of right Belong to the Deceased. And my Son Joseph to have his part in my Housing and Homestead ~~

Itm 3dly My will is that Each of my Daughters, Esther abigail and martha Shall have out of my Parsonal Estate (Includeing what Each of them has already had and by me Set out to any of them) the Sum of one Hundred and thirty pounds apiece and if my Parsonal Estate be not Sufficient to make up the sd Sums then to be Equally made up to Each of them by Each of my Sons Surviveing and in Case any of my Daughters Should Decease before She arrive at Lawfull age to Receive her Part in my Estate as above then that Part Shall be Equally Divided between my Surviveing Children ~~

Itm  4thly my Will is that if my Parsonal Estate after my Just Debts and Widows thirds be taken out, be more than Enough to Satisfie to my Daughters Each one her part as above then the remainder Shall be Equally divided between my Surviveing Daughters~~

and Furthermore I hereby ordain my well beloved wife Esther & my Son Joseph to be Executors of this my Last will and Testament and to take Care that all my Just Debts be Justly paid: And Lastly I here by disallow revoke and Disanull all and Every former Testament wills Bequests and Executors by me in any ways before Named &c Rattifying and Confirming this and no other to be my Last will and Testament.  In Witness whereof I have hereunto Set my hand and Seal the Day & year above written.

                                                                                                                                                Daniel Maltbie                                 (seal)

Signed Sealed published & Declared

by ye said Danll Maltbie as his Last

will and Testament in presence of us Subscribers

Josiah Frisbie

Uzall Wardell

Samll Maltbie

 

Proved on 8 Jan. 1731/2 by Capt. Samll Maltbie and Mr Uzall Wardell before Jno. Russell, Jus. Pac.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Guilford Probate Records, Vol. 2, p. 437-438.

 

 

Will of Chauncy Maltby of Rutland, Jefferson County, New York (1863) *

I Chauncey Maltby of the town of Rutland County of Jefferson and State of New York Aged forty three years and upwards of sound mind and disposing faculties do make ordain publish and declare this my last will and testament in manner & form following, that is to say – First I give and bequeath unto my beloved daughter Mary Lucinda the sum of one thousand and five Hundred Dollars to be paid her by my son Henry Warren Maltby as hereinafter provided on the day when she arrives at the age of twenty years or sooner if she sooner marries, and if she marries before she shall arrive at the age of twenty years of age then this said sum of one thousand five hundred dollars be paid her by my said son Henry Warren when she do marries.

Second. I give and bequeath unto my son Henry Warren Maltby my hill farm containing about one hundred & sixty acres of land purchased by me of my father Milo Maltby and that he enter upon & have possession of the same at the expiration of his present term of Service in the Army of the United States upon his paying to my said daughter the said sum of one thousand five Hundred Dollars when she arrives at the age of twenty years and if my said daughter Mary Lucinda shall marry before she arrives at the age of twenty years, that then the said sum of One thousand five Hundred Dollars be paid by my said Son Henry Warren Maltby to my said daughter Mary Lucinda on the day she do marries. – And which said sum of one thousand five Hundred Dollars I make by this my will an express charge upon the said farm of one Hundred & sixty one acres of land.

Third. I give and bequeath unto my son Charles E. Maltby the farm on which I now reside being the same farm purchased by me of Allen Waldo Containing about one hundred & six acres of land as the farm is now fenced. My said son always carrying out & perfecting an Exchange of lands made by me with Orville Brown – which said Exchange makes the said farm as now fenced, reserving always the spring & its use which is now on the land by me exchanged with said Orville Brown.

Fourth. I give and bequeath unto my beloved wife Sally Ann the use of my hill farm until my said son Henry Warren Maltby shall have completed his term of service in the Army of the United States. Also the use and control of my farm herein given over and bequeathed unto my said son Charles E. until my said son Charles E. shall arrive at the age of twenty one years. My said wife always boarding clothing and Educating my said Children Mary Lucinda and Charles E. until they respectively arrive at the age of twenty one years.

Fifth. I appoint my beloved wife Sally Ann Executrix of this my last will and order and direct that she pay all my debts including my debts for lands in those of Mortgages or otherwise out of the personal property I may own at my decease. In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand & seal this 9th day of November in the year one thousand eight hundred & sixty three.                                                                                                                                      Chauncy Maltby                               (seal)

 

The above instrument consisting of one sheet was at the date thereof signed sealed, published and declared by the said Chauncy Maltby as and for his last will & testament in presence of us who at his request and in his presence and in the presence of each other subscribed our names as witnesses thereto.

                N. C. Thompson  Watertown N.Y.

                John W. Edwards

 

Presented for probate on 25 July 1866 by Sally Ann Maltby of Rutland, the heirs being Sally Ann Maltby, the widow of the testator, Charles Eli Maltby and Mary Lucinda Maltby of Rutland, children of the testator.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Jefferson County Probate Wills Vol. 11, p. 134-136.

 

 

Will and Codicils of Joseph Maltby of Rutland, Jefferson County, New York (1846) *

In the name of God, Amen. I Joseph Maltby of the town of Rutland, County of Jefferson, New York, considering the uncertainty of human life and sensible of the near approach of my great and last change, being of sound mind, and memory, do ordain and declare, this to be my last Will and Testament in manner and form following viz: –

First..

                I direct all my just debts and funeral Expenses to be paid out of my Estate –

Secondly –

                I give and bequeath unto my son William all my personal property (Except what I herein otherwise dispose of) together with the use of Forty acres of the cultivated part of my Farm on the north side including the buildings and Ten acres of Wood Land on the back part of said farm – on condition of my being comfortably supported by my said son William during her natural life –

Thirdly.

                I give and bequeath unto my Wife Phebe the use of the noth part of my house and two cows, and so much of the household furniture as she owned at the time of our marriage.

Fourthly.

                I give and bequeath unto my said son William’s oldest son the above Specified property on the death of my said son William, on condition that his present wife (if living) shall have her support out of the said property ~

Fifthly –

                I give and bequeath unto my Grandson Grove Hall five acres of land in a Square farm, and on that part of said farm now occupied, by Gideon Hall, and the remainder of the household furniture for the benefit of my daughter Lois Hall, during her life –

Sixthly

                I give and bequeath unto my son Luther The sum of Five Dollars –

Seventhly

                I give and bequeath unto my son Sherman, one Equal half of the remainder of my Real Estate

Eighthly

                I give and bequeath unto my son Calvin the other half of the remainder of my Real Estate

Lastly ~

                I hereby name and appoint my Wife Phebe and Orville Brown to be the Executors of this my last Will and Testament

                                                                                In Witness whereof I hereunto set my hand and Seal this 28th day of August in the year of our Lord one thousand Eight hundred and forty six [sic]

                                                                                                                                                Joseph Maltby                                  (seal)

                The above Will consisting of one sheet, was now here subscribed by Joseph Maltby the Testator in our presence, and was declared by him to be his last Will and Testament, and at his request we hereby sign our names as attesting Witnesses ~

Zenas Shaw  Rutland  Jeff Co  N Y

A. W. Porter  Rutland  Jeff Co  N.Y.

 

I Joseph Maltby do hereby declare the following to be a codicil to my last Will and Testament and to be taken as a part of it.

                                November 20th 1844.

I give and bequeath unto my son Milo the aforementioned five acres of Land, bequeathed in the body of this Will to Grove Hall, on condition that said Milo shall pay to my daughter Lois, the sum of thirty Dollars in such articles for her support and at such times as her necessity shall require.

                                I give and bequeath unto my son William the use of the whole of my Wood Lot Excepting the above mentioned Five acres, and on his decease said lot with the aforementioned Forty acres bequeathed to his oldest son shall be Equally divided between his two oldest sons on condition that his present wife (if living) shall have her support on the same.

                                                                                                                                                Joseph Maltby                                  (seal)

                The above Codicil was now here subscribed by Joseph Maltby the Testator in our presence and was declared by him to be his last Will and Testament, and at his request we hereby sign our names as attesting witnesses –

Aaron W. Porter of Rutland Jefferson Co. N.Y.

Latan Field of Rutland Jefferson Co N.Y.

 

I Joseph Maltby do hereby declare the following to be a further codicil to my last Will and Testament, and to be taken as a part of it.

I give and bequeath unto my Wife Phebe the use of a certain Man now owned by me as she may require for her own convenience, said Man is to be Kept by son William, who shall have a right to use the same, whenever said Man is not used by said Wife.

And I do also bequeath to my said Wife a certain yearling Heifer, now in my possession to be disposed of as she may think proper.

I hereby revoke the appointment of my Wife Phebe and Orville Brown as Executors, and do hereby nominate and appoint Aaron W. Porter to be the Executor of this my last Will and Testament.

                In Witness Whereof I hereunto set my hand and seal this third day of July in the year of our Lord one thousand Eight hundred and forty five

                                                                                                                                                Joseph Maltby                                  (seal)

The above Codicil was now hereunto subscribed by Joseph Maltby the Testator in our presence, and was by him declared to be his last Will and Testament, and at his request, we signed our names as attesting witnesses

Aaron W. Porter residence in Rutland Jeff Co

Ira Brown Residence in Rutland Jeff Co

 

                                                                                At a Surrogates’ Court held in and for the County of Jefferson, at the office of the said Surrogate, in the town of Watertown, in said County on the 7th day of September, one thousand Eight hundred and forty six.

        Present Nathaniel P. Wardwell Surrogate

                In the Matter of Proving the Will of the Real and Personal Estate of Joseph Maltby, deceased,

Be it remembered that on the Sixteenth day of February A.D. 1846. William Maltby of the town of Rutland in the said County of Jefferson, and State of New York, came before the said Surrogate, and made and filed his Petition on oath, Stating and thereby the said Surrogate was satisfied, that Joseph Maltby late of the town of Rutland, County and State aforesaid and owning Real and Personal Estate therein had lately died, after having made and published his last Will and Testament, disposing of said Estate and therein had appointed Aaron W. Porter of the town of Rutland, county aforesaid, Sole Executor of said Will.

That the said Joseph Maltby, deceased, left the following named persons, his heirs at Law and next of Kin. Viz: Phebe Maltby, Milo Maltby, and William Maltby, of Rutland aforesaid, Calvin Maltby of the town of Rodman County and State aforesaid, Lois Hall, wife of Gideon S. Hall of Alexandria County & State aforesaid, Luther Maltby of the town of Freedonia Chatauqua County and State aforesaid, Polly Rice wife of Benjamin Rice of the town of Harmony, County and State last aforesaid, Sherman Maltby of the town of Denmark of the County of Lewis, and State aforesaid, and Horace Maltby of the town of Caroline, County of Tompkins and State of New York.

                The Said persons, being all the heirs at Law and next of Kin of the said Joseph Maltby, deceased.

                And by said Petition it was prayed that said Will might be proved and recorded as a Will of Real and personal Estate, and that such proceedings might be had for that purpose as the Law required – And thereupon the said Surrogate being satisfied of the truth of the matter Stated in said Petition, did issue a Citation under his hand and official seal bearing date the Sixth day of July A.D. 1846, directed to the persons above mentioned, Stating their said places of residence respectively. And that William Maltby, as son named in the last Will and Testament, of said deceased, had applied for to have the said Will proved, as a Will of Real and personal Estate – And requiring them to appear before said Surrogate, at his office, in the town of Watertown of Watertown aforesaid on the 7th day of September A.D. 1846 at Ten O Clock in the fore noon to attend the probate of said last Will and Testament

And thereupon the process was continued until the return day thereof At which last mentioned day and place the parties appeared in Court before the said Surrogate And it having at the time and place last aforesaid, been satisfactorily proved that the said Citation, had been duly served on all the said parties, according to Law, And that the aforesaid persons were all the heirs at Law and next of Kin of the said Joseph Maltby, deceased,

Whereupon the said Surrogate did then and there proceed to hear the proofs and allegation of the parties in the premises. The said Will and Codicils thereto are produced, and Zenas Shaw, one of the Subscribing witnesses to the said Will was duly sworn, and testified as such witness in the premises, and whose testimony after being reduced to writing was carefully read of to and subscribed by him, and Latan Field a Subscribing Witness to one, and Ira Brown a subscribing witness to the other of said Codicils, were also Each duly sworn, and Each testified as such witnesses, The Testimony of Each of said Witnesses, after having been reduced to writing, was carefully read over to and subscribed by him – And the testimony of the said Witnesses to the said Will and Codicils, was recorded as follows, …

                                Witness Nathaniel P. Wardwell Esquire

                                Surrogate of the said County of Jefferson the day

                                and year first aforesaid –

                                                                                                                                                Nathaniel P. Wardwell

                                                                                                                                                                Surrogate

 

I Nathaniel P. Wardwell Surrogate of the County of Jefferson, do certify upon proofs, and Examinations taken in the County aforesaid, before me on the 7th day of September A.D. 1846 by the oaths of Zenas Shaw, Latan Field and Ira Brown, the subscribing Witnesses to the within Will and Testament, and Codicils thereto, that the said Will and Testament and Codicils thereto were duly Executed: That the Testator at the time of Executing the same, was in all respects competent to devise Real Estate and to bequeath Personal Property, and not under restraint.

        And that the said Will had been proved, approved, Established, and confirmed, as a good and valid Will of Real and Personal Estate.  And I the said Surrogate do further certify, that the same Will and Testament and Codicils thereto, and the proofs thereof, are recorded in the Surrogates’ office in the book kept for recording Wills Testament and Codicils –

In Witness whereof I the said Surrogate have hereunto set my seal of office, and subscribe my name the 7th day of September One thousand Eight hundred and forty six.

                                                                                                                Nathaniel P. Wardwell

                                                                                                                                Surrogate

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby as recorded from Jefferson County Probate Wills Vol. D, p. 252-260. The date of the will of Joseph Maltby was evidently transcribed in error as 28 Aug. 1846, but his codicils were dated 20 Nov. 1844 and 3 July 1845, and the will was originally presented for probate on 16 Feb. 1846, so the year the will was executed must have been before 20 Nov. 1844.

 

 

Will of William Maltby, Esq., of Branford, New Haven County, Colony of Connecticut (1710) *

I William Malby of Branford esqre. being this 28th day of august Anno Dom 1710 in ye. ninth year of her Majtys. reigne sick and weak in body but through the mercy of God of composed mind and sound memory do make & ordain this my last will and Testament in maner & forme following ~~

Imprimis I give and bequeath to my Soul unto God that gave it & my body to a decent buriall at the discretion of my Executors hereafter named, hopeing onely in the merits of Jesus Christ for the pardon of my Sins and an interest in the resurection of the Just ~

And as for the dispose of that temporall Estate which God of his Bounty and goodness hath given to me I give and dispose the same as followeth. — First I give and bequeath unto my oldest sonn John Maltby all that house and Land which I bought for him at Say=Brook being all the lands I have there with the appurtenances thereof of which sd House and Lands my Sd. Sonn now Stands Seized and possessed – Also I give and bequeath unto him my Sd Sonn John Maltby my Allottment of land which I bought of Capt. Merriman and Thomas Hall In quantity about one hundred Acres lyeing between the bounds of Wallingford and Middletowne and an equall Share with the rest of my Children in my Common and undivided lands within the Towne of Branford to be to him his heirs & assignes for ever Together with the Severall particulars of personal Estate which are mentioned particularly in my book of accounts. ~~

It I give and bequeath unto my Grandson William Maltby Son & heir of my Son William Maltby deceased the sum due to me on ballance of accompts between me and my Son William Maltby deceased as it Stand in my account book provided my Daughtr. in law Elizabeth Maltby, nor my Sd. Grandchild gives any Trouble to my Executors or to any Other Children or heirs of mine respecting Accompts depending between me & my Sd Son Wm. Maltby deceased but if they or Either of them gives Trouble respecting any accounts or dealings Between my Self & my Sd. Son that then the sd summe due to ballance ye. Accompt between me & my Sd Sonn shall be paid to my Executors. Also I give and Confirme unto my Sd. Grandson William Maltby Sixty four acres of land at that place Called Tibbes Hill in the the third division in Branford aforesd. — wth. the addition Northward adjoining there unto which sd parcell of land with the appurtenances thereof I give unto him my Said GrandSon his heirs and Assignes for ever, It I give unto him a horse Colt & a mare Colt of two Year old to be paid by my Executors.~~

Item I Give and Bequeath unto my Loving Son Daniel Maltby all that house & land that he now Stands in possession of in the town of Branford the homlott being in quantity Ten Acres be it more or Less as also all my land at Mulliners Neck and my divition there also, I further give my Sd Son Daniell all my land on brushy plaine containing thirteene Acres be it more or less all which land & appurtenances my will is shall be & remaine to him his heirs & assignes for ever ~~

Item I give and Bequeath unto my Loving Son Samuell Maltby my Orchard that lieth Eastward of my now dwelling house in Branford from the Street to the salt meadow to be to him his heirs and Assignes for ever. ~~

Item I give and bequeath unto my Loving Son Jonathan Maltby my Mansion house I now dwell in within the precinct of Branford aforesd. with the homlott of land thereto adjoining and belonging to gether with all housing buildings, Edifices and appurtenances thereunto belonging the before mentioned given to my Son Samuell on the Eastward Side of it onely Excepted to be and belong to him his heirs and Assignes for ever. ~~

Item I Give and bequeath all my Other Lands Arrable pasture or meadows not heretofore disposed of by me or devised in this my last will & Testament within the precinct of Branford or else where as the Same Shall appear on record to be equally divided to & between my My Sonns Samuell Maltby and Jonathan Maltby and to be and belong to them and their or each of their heirs and Assignes for ever, ~~

Item I Give unto my Daughter Jane Parker the bed bed stead hangings and furniture thereof in my Hall which wer her mothers. ~~

Item I Give and bequeath to my aforesd Sonns John Maltby and Daniell Maltby the remainder of my fourth division Lott beyond Tibbes Hill part of it being sold to Capt Fowler to be equally divided between them.

Item my will is yt. my right in Commonage and undivided land within the Town of Branford be and shall be equally divided to and among all my Children

Item I Give to my Daughter Elizabeth Hoadly my Cupboard with four drawers and long Table.~

Item my will is that if either or both of my Sonns Samuell Maltby or Jonathan Maltby Should dye before they arrive to to Lawfull age to receive their portions given to them that then the part of them or Either of them above devised shall be and belong in equall parts to the rest of my Surviving Children ~~

Lastly my will is and I do hereby nominate and appoint my dear and Loving wife Abigaill Maltby and my Sonn Samuell Maltby to be Joynt Executrs of this my last will and Testament, and I Give unto my Sd Deare wife the improvement of one third part of my reall estate during her naturall life, desireing her to take Care to See my Just debts duely paid, And I also desire my Loving Brother mr. Samuell Bishop to be Overseer and give assistance in the execution of this my last will and Testament and Do revoke all other wills heretofore by me made In wittness whereof I have hereunto Set my hand and Seale in Branford this Twenty ninth day of august Anno Domini 1710 in the ninth year of her Majesties reigne

I the sd Wm. Maltby Do also bequeath five pounds to my Sonn John Maltbys Eldest Sonne And five pounds to each of the rest of my Eldest Grandsons now living to be paid at money Value by my Executors And also five shillings a peice to each of my Grand Children. ~~

Signed Sealed and –

Published as the last will                                                                                                     Wm. Maltby                         (seal)

and Testament by the

Subscriber in presence

of us.

Jeremiah Osborne

Samuell Pond

Vzall Wardell

                her

Miriam  W  Pond

                mark

 

Proved by the witnesses on the first Monday of October 1710.

 

The Inventory of the estate of William Maltby Esqr late of Branford, dated 2 Nov. 1710, was appraised by Nathanll Harrison and Thomas Shepard, and totaled £1058.7.10. Samuell Maltby, the Exr. gave his oath to the inventory.

 

Mr Joseph Tuttle on the behalf of John Maltby, Daniell Maltby, David Parker in right of his wife and Abraham Hoadly in right of his wife, some of the heirs of William Maltby Esqr. late of Branford deceased desired the Court to Grant Ltrs of Administration on ye goods and Chattels of ye sd deceased on the 1st Monday of January 1710/11.

 

Mr. John Maultbie of Saybrook one of ye Legatees of Mr William Maultby Late of Brandford Decd Did Offer ye Evidence of Samuell and Miriam Pond to Shew that through the Neglect of ye Scribe In writing ye will of ye sd Decd there was an Omition of Some perticuler Grants to ye Said John Maultbie and his Brother Daniell: But in So much yt none of ye Interested pesons were present nor Cited So to bee = ye Court Do Decline Acting in yt Affair

 

Jonathan Maultbie Minor Child of Mr Willm Maultbie Late of Branford Decd Appearing before this Court and making Choice of Mr Edward Barker of Branford for to be his Guardian the Court allow said Choice ye Said Barker having Given Sufficient Bond for A faithfull Discharge of Said trust

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from New Haven Probate Vol. 3, pp. 224-227, 234-236, and 246, and Vol. 4, pp. 62, 66.

 

 

 

Will of Daniel Manly of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1796) *

In the Name of God amen – This thirteenth day of December in ye. year one thousand, seven hundred & ninety six, I Daniel Manly of Bridgwater in the County of Plymouth & State of Massachusetts, yeoman, being infirm of body, but of perfect mind & memory, thanks be to God, calling to mind the mortality of my body, and knowing that is appointed to all men once to die, do make & ordain this my last will & testament, that is to say – first of all, I recommend my soul into the hands of God who gave it, and my body to the earth, by a decent burial at the discretion of my Executors, nothing doubting but that at the general resurrection I shall recieve it again by the mighty power of God, and as touching that worldly estate which God has blessed me with, I give & dispose of it in the following manner and form.

Imprimis – I Give and bequeath to Sarah Manly my well beloved wife the improvement of two front rooms in my dwelling house in the old part of which I have improved myself, with as large a privilege in the Kitchin or back room belonging thereunto as she shall find necessary for herself, with a part of the cellar, & chamber as is necessary for to improve, with a privilege of the well, with one quarter of the corn house & one quarter of the barn with one half of my orchard, with ten acres of wood land which I bought of David Dunbar joining on Jacob Dunbar’s land; and my will is that my wife shall have two Cows kept well, winter & summer & six sheep annually from year to year by my son Daniel Manly, but not exclusive of her thirds, for if my wife insists on having her thirds set off, then my son Daniel is not to keep the Cows nor sheep, all the above is set to my wife to be to hers so long as she remains my widow, with the use of my side saddle for that term, and no longer. – I give my wife the part of a Sauce yard, which I have used to raise sauce, during her remaining my widow, and furthermore I give to Sarah my wife (whom I constitute with my eldest son Daniel Manly and ordain joint Executors of this my last will & testament) all the things which she brought to me with her for housekeeping of whatsoever denomination with what she has bought or made since; and my will is that my wife shall have two Cows out of my Stock of Cattle & six sheep, shall have her choice of my Cows, and my will is that my wife shall have two hundred dollars out of my notes of hand I have by me, to come into possession of at my decease to be hers, her heirs & assigns forever, on this condition, that if my wife should marry again, that with this sum she must quit or give acquittance of my estate to my heirs forevermore

Item. – I Give & bequeath to my eldest son Daniel Manly (whom I constitute & ordain one of my executors of this my last will & testament) all my homestead lands (excepting the reserves made in this will of a part of the improvements) with all the buildings standing thereon (except the reserves which are made in this will) with my stock of cattle, except two Cows I gave to my wife, with my Mare with my sheep which are not disposed of otherways, my will is that my son Daniel shall have all my husbandry tools of all sorts (excepting an ax & an hoe I give to my wife) my will is that my son Daniel shall have my new saddle, & furthermore I give & bequeath to my son Daniel Manly a piece of cedar swamp, containing near three acres be it more or less, lying in what is called Cooper’s Cedar Swamp, lying in Eastown in the County of Bristol, all which I do give to my son Daniel, his heirs & assigns forevermore, with his paying my Daughter Ollif Hayward, the wife of Joseph Hayward two hundred dollars, which I do enjoin on him to do at my decease

Item. – I Give & bequeath to my second son Nathaniel Manly, all my right which I do own in Taunton north purchase, so called, of undivided land, which I had of my father Thomas Manly formerly living in Eastown, with all my wearing apparell, to be to him his heirs & assigns forever –

Item. – I Give & bequeath to my eldest daughter Ollif Hayward, the wife of Joseph Hayward Four Hundred Dollars, Two Hundred Dollars are to be paid by my son Daniel Manly on his accepting & improving the legacy given him in this will, and the other Two Hundred Dollars are to be paid off by my Executors out of the notes of hand which I have by me, to be to her, her heirs and assigns forever.

Item – I Give and bequeath to my daughter Sarah Manly the ten acres of wood land which my wife has the improvement of during her remaining my widow, with eight hundred dollars in Cash, to be paid out of the notes of hand which I have by me, to be paid by my executors at my decease; my will is, that if I am taken away leaving this my young daughter under age, or incapable to act for herself, that the eight hundred dollars, which I gave her shall be kept at Interest by her Guardian, & my will is that my daughter Sarah Manly shall have the whole benefit of the interest in any way that is or may be profitable or convenient to be laid out for her use, and my will is that my daughter Sarah Manly shall have all my indoor moveables of all sorts of whatever denomination that are not otherwise disposed of, to be to her, her heirs & assigns forevermore, & furthermore my will is, that if my wife should marry again or should die & leave my youngest daughter in single capacity my will is that my youngest daughter shall have the room in the south east corner of my house during her single life or remaining so.

Item – furthermore, I give and bequeath to my three grandsons, these are Daniel Manly ye. 3d. the son of Daniel Manly junr. & Hayward Manly the son of Nathaniel Manly & Manly Hayward the son of Joseph Hayward, each of them one hundred dollars a piece, or one hundred dollars to each of them, to be paid by my executors out of my State Securities at my decease, to be to them their heirs and assigns.

Item. – I Give & bequeath Fifty Dollars, to be paid out of my State Securities by my executors to Joseph Hayward my son in law, in consideration for a piece of my ground of a suitable bigness for a burying ground in the place where my first wife was buried

Item – I Give and bequeath Fifty Dollars to be paid off by my executors out of my State Securities, to the use, or for to build a School House in the English School Rick wherein my habitation lies, when it is wanted for that use. — there is a pasture of five or six acres that my wife has a Lease of during her remaining my widow if my son Daniel Manly keeps her Cows; it is meant he must have the use of that pasture so long as he continues to keep them for my wife, and no longer – and furthermore my will is, that if their appears to be any of my estate that is not disposed of by this will, or any estate that should fall to me by heirship, it shall be equally divided, and I do make all four of my children equal and sole Legatees of any such estate as shall appear hereafter to be mine. – And I do hereby injoin on my executors to pay off all the herein bequeathed legacies, with the securities herein mentioned, and all my just debts within one year after my decease, with my funeral charges. And, I do by these presents, utterly disallow, revoke and disannul all other wills & bequests & executors ratifying this to be my last will & testament – In Witness whereof, I have hereunto set my hand seal the day and year above mentioned –

                                                                                                                                                Daniel Manly                                    (seal)

Signed, Sealed Published & declared in presence of us

Issachar Snell

Jona. Packard 2d

Perez Packard

Issachar Snell Jr

Abigail Snell

 

Presented for probate on 3 April 1804 by Daniel Manly, one of the executors therein named, and proved by Peres Packard and Issachar Snell junr, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Danl. Manly, (Sarah Manly ye other Executor having refused the sd trust), the before named Executor.

 

To the Hon. Joshua Thomas Esqr Judge of ye Probate of wills &ca for the County of Plymouth — It being inconvenient to me to execute the duty of an executor to the last will & testament of my husband Daniel Manly late of Bridgwater in said county of Plymouth, yeoman, deceased – I do hereby signify & declare to your Honr. my refusal to that trust

Dated at Bridgewater this

23d day of March 1804—                                                                                                  Sarah Manly

 

Daniel Howard ye 2d Esqr, Mark Perkins, Gentleman, and John Tilden, yeoman, all of Bridgwater, were appointed to appraise the estate of Daniel Manly, late of Bridgwater, yeoman, on 3 Apr. 1804. The Inventory of the Estate of Daniel Manly, late of Bridgwater, dated 13 Apr. 1804, totaled $5105.19, including his real estate valued at $1537.50, and sundry notes of hand totaled $2089.29, a small State Note, and two United States Stocks. Danl. Manley, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 4 June 1804.

 

Caleb Howard and Mark Perkins, Gentlemen, and John Tilden, Yeoman, all of Bridgwater, were appointed to set off to Sarah Manly, the widow of Daniel Manly, late of Bridgwater, yeoman, her thirds or right of Dower in the Estate of her late husband on 3 June 1805. The division, dated 6 Sept. 1805, was approved on 2 June 1806.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 38, p. 536-539, from FHL microfilm #0550720, and Vol. 40, pp. 80-81, 463-465.

 

 

Will of Edward Mann of County Kent, England (1702) *

        In the name of God Amen Bee it known and Manifest unto all people that I Edward Mann of the County of Kent in the kingdom of England Chyrurgions Mate on Board her Majties Ship the Jersey Capt. Robt. Stapleston Comander now residing in the Rhode of New York being very weak and sick at this present yet of sound memory and understanding thanks be to God for the same have thought fitt to make this my last Will and Testament hereby revokeing and annulling all former Wills and Testaments by me made Willing that these presents shall onely be of Force after my Decease First I recomend my soul to God that gave it me and my Body to the Earth in hopes of a glorious Resurrection at the Last day.

Item I give unto Stephen Mildman all my wearing apparell Linnen and Wollen and bedding Item I give all my wages now due on board her Majties ship the Jersey to be Imployed for the Defraying of my funerall Expence and Charges Item I give unto my wellbeloved Sister Martha Mann all my reall estate lying and being in the Pole of Sheppey in the County of Kent aforesaid and to her heirs and assigns for ever. Provided and it is my true intent and meaning that she pay or Cause to be paid out of the same unto my youngest Brother John Mann the sum of one hundred pounds Sterling money of Engld  Lastly I doe hereby nominate and appoint my trusty friend Christopher Denne to be the onely Executor of this my last Will and Testament In Wittness whereof I the said Edward Mann have hereunto sett my hand and seale in New York this fourth day of September in the first years of her Majties reign Annoq Dmi 1702.

                                                                                                                                                Edward Mann                                   (seal)

The said Edward Man did also on the Day abovesaid declare that he gave his Books Sword and all other things not before Disposed of being in this province unto Mr. Christopher Denne Wittness his hand and seale                                                                                               Edward Man                                     (seal)

Signed sealed and Published as the last Will and Testament of Edward Mann in the presence of John Bulkley, Thos. Simmons, Abrah. Governeur.

 

On 16 Dec. 1702 the within named Executor Christopher Denne appears and was sworn to a due Execution of this Will before me John Bridges Sur.; proved by Tho. Simmons. Letters of Administration were granted unto Christopher Denne, the Executor, on 16 Dec. 1702.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from New York County Probate Wills Vol. 7, p. 64-65, copied from original Libor 7, p. 57-58.

 

 

Will of Belcher Manter of Plymouth, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1822)*

In the name of God, and I trust agreeable to his will, I Belcher Manter of Plymouth, in the County of Plymouth order my Executor, hereafter to be named, to bury my body with decency, now make my last will and testament as follows, revoking all other wills & disposition of my estate,

Firstly, I bequeath to Belcher Manter Jr. that part of the Estate which I purchased of George Thrasher, joining great south pond, & which is now within fence with all the privileges & appurtenances in fee simple.

        Secondly, I order my Executor to pay to Prince Manter my son five Dollars if called for within two years from my decease, as his portion in my estate.

        Thirdly, I order said Executor to pay to David Manter five Dollars, upon the same conditions, as his portion of my estate.

        I also order my said Executor to pay to Alden Manter, Grafton Manter, & George Manter, Rebecca Bessey wife of Ephraim Bessey, Catharine Harlow, wife of Silvanus Harlow, being my children to each one five dollars, to Joseph Sampson, Rebecca Manter, my two Grandchildren to each the sum of five dollars & all the above named legacies to be paid upon the same conditions, and to be the proportion of each legatee in my estate.

Also I bequeath in equal shares all the rest of my estate to my Grandsons George Manter, Thomas Manter & Prince Manter Jr. (they paying jointly with said Belcher Manter, my debts & legacies in equal shares) and I order said George Manter, Thomas Manter, and Prince Manter Jr., to see that their sisters Lucy Manter & Parnel Manter, and their brothers Timothy Manter, & David Manter be decently brought up untill they come of age.

I also order and direct, that in case either of my Grandsons George Manter, Thomas Manter, & Prince Manter Jr. decease without issue that his or their share of my estate belong to the surviving brother or brothers equally.

        I hereby appoint Belcher Manter Jr., George Manter & Thomas Manter to be my Executors. It is my desire, that in the event of any difficulty in settling my estate, that my said Executors call in the assistance of the first witness to this will. Signed sealed & declared to be his last will in presence of

        Zacheus Bartlett                                                                                          at Plymouth the 28 day of February 1822

        J. G. Gleason

        M. Bartlett                                                                                                    Belcher Manter                                                (seal)

 

Plymouth Massachusetts. April 30, 1824, I the above written Belcher Manter so far after the will abovesaid, dated the 28th day of February 1822, to which this is a Codicil, as to revoke & annul the bequest therein made to Belcher Manter Jr. of the estate which I purchased of George Thrasher & in lieu thereof I order my Executor to pay him one hundred dollars at the end of two years from my decease

Signed, Sealed & Declared to be his last will in presence                          

of us       Z. Bartlett                                                                                                             Belcher Manter

Maribah Hackett

H. Bartlett

 

Presented for probate on 18 July 1825 by Thomas Manter, one of the Executors therein named, and proved by Zacheus Bartlett, James G. Gleason and M. Bartlett, the witnesses to the will, and by Zacheus Bartlett, one of the witnesses to the Codicil.

 

Belcher Manter, one of the Executors named in the will of Belcher Manter, late of Plymouth, refused, it being too inconvenient for him, on 18 July 1825.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Belcher Manter, late of Plymouth, was appraised by Zacheus Bartlett, Lemuel Stephens, & Ichabod Morton, but was not dated. His real estate totaled $1560.00, which included 150 acres of land adjoining halfway pond valued at $800, and his homestead with its mill privilege valued at $450. His personal estate totaled $237.71. The appraisers gave their oath to the inventory on 18 July 1825, and Thomas Manter, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 18 July 1825.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 59, pp. 334-338, from FHL microfilm #0550910.

 

 

Will of Ruth McLauthlen of Kingston, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1828) *

                In the name of God, Amen. I, Ruth McLauthlen of Kingston in the County of Plymouth, singlewoman, being in a poor state of health, but in a perfect state of mind and memory, do make and publish this my last Will and Testament, this twenty-eighth day of January in the year of our Lord One thousand eight hundred and twenty-eight, in manner and form as follows, that it to say – After all my just debts be paid by my sister Rebecca McLauthlen, – that being done I give to my brother Elisha McLauthlen one silver table-spoon, one Pembroke table, one Rose blanket, and one pair sheets, and one three pint basin. I give my sister Mary Stetson one bed, bolsters, & pillows, and one woolen bed-quilt and one pair of sheets, and my silver bowed spectacles. I give to my brother Robert McLauthlen one silver table-spoon, one bed-quilt, one pair sheets & chest of draws, one two quart basin, – and to my niece Judith Soule my plaid cloak, one blue coverlet, one pair of sheets, and my jewels, and six tea-spoons, and two pewter porringers – To my niece Ruth Walker one light-stand. To my niece Pamalea McLauthlen one pair pictures of the Cross and a collar she worked for me – To my niece Mary J. McLauthlen my waiter – To my nephews Spencer Holmes Jr. and Jedediah Holmes 3d two dollars each, To my niece Lucia McLauthlen one white dimity petticoat – To my niece Ann McLauthlen my gold necklace. and to my sister Rebecca McLauthlen I give all my securities, and all my property not above disposed of, she paying my funeral charges and all my just debts, to her use, and I would recommend to her to be prudent of the same, and to use as much or all of it if needed for her comfort and support – And if at her decease there should any remain after paying her just debts I wish such remaining sum to be equally divided between my brothers and sisters, namely, Elisha McLauthlen, Robert McLauthlen, and Marcy Stetson, and the heirs of my sister Judith Holmes, into four equal shares. And I do constitute & appoint my sister Rebecca McLauthlen sole Executor to this my last Will and Testament.  In witness whereof I do hereunto set my hand and seal the day and year above mentioned.

Signed, sealed, pronounced, and                                                                                      Ruth McLauthlen                             (seal)

delivered by the said Ruth Mc

Lauthlen to be her last Will and Testament in presence of us

                Abner Stetson Jr

                Clarissa Stetson

                Lydia McLauthlen

 

Presented for probate on 14 Apr. 1828, and proved by Abner Stetson Jr., Clarissa Stetson, and Lydia McLauthlen, the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Rebekah McLauthlen, the Executrix therein named, on 14 Apr. 1828.

No inventory of her estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 66, p. 49-50, from FHL microfilm #0555259.

 

 

Will of Moses Mendall of Rochester, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1839) *

                In the name of God Amen. I Moses Mendall of Rochester in the County of Plymouth and State of Massachusetts Considering the uncertainty of life and being of sound and perfect mind and memory do make this my last Will and testament – First I give and bequeath to my Daughter Huldah Hall twenty Dollars. Secondly I give and bequeath to my sons Caleb and Jonathan Mendall equally between them all my Real and personal estate after paying out the Legacies mentioned in this will & by paying all my Just debts and funeral charges. Thirdly I give and bequeath to each of my children not yet mentioned here one cent each and to the heirs of my son Moses Mendall deceased one cent each. And I hereby appoint my son Jonathan Mendall my Sole Executor of this my last will and Testament, hereby revoking all former wills by me made – In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this twenty second day of October One thousand eight hundred and thirty nine.

                                                                                                                                                Moses Mendall                                 (seal)

Signed, sealed published and declared by the above named Moses Mendall to be his last will and testament in presence of us who at his request and in his presence have hereunto set our names as witnesses to the same.

   James Ruggles   Wm. Ruggles   John Sampson

 

Presented for probate on the first Monday of Dec. 1843 by Jonathan Mendall, the Executor therein named, and proved by James Ruggles and William Ruggles, two of the witnesses. Letters Testamentary granted to Jonathan Mendall, the Executor therein named.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Moses Mendall, late of Rochester, appraised by George Peirce, William Stevens, and James H. Look on 21 Oct. 1843, totaled $1922.76, including his real estate valued at $1550. Jonathan Mendall, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on the first Monday in Dec. 1843, and he was granted license to sell the personal estate of the deceased.

 

Jonathan Mendall, of Rochester, was granted Letters Testamentary on the estate of Moses Mendall, late of Rochester, on 4 Dec. 1843, with David Lewis and Theodore W. Leonard, both of Rochester, as sureties.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 85, p. 559-563, from FHL microfilm #0555268, and Vol. 1G, p. 266.

 

 

Will of Sylvanus Mendall of Rochester, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1794) *

   I Sylvanus Mendall of Rochester in the county of Plymouth, yeoman, being of sound & disposing mind & memory, calling to mind the certainty of death & the uncertainty of the time when, do this first day of April Anno Domini, one thousand seven hundred & ninety four make this my last will & testament, and first & principally bequeath my immortal spirit to the great father of Spirits, and my body to its original dust from when it was taken, and as touching my temporal & earthly estate, I dispose of it in the following manner & form– vizt

   Imprimis— I do Give & bequeath my wearing apparell to my Son Timothy & I do further give him the use & improvement of one half my dwelling house & one half of my orchard & the whole of the remaining part of my homestead farm so long as he shall keep it in his own immediate possession & no longer and it is my will that this bequest of improvement both of the half the house and half the orchard shall cease to have any effect or force, the moment that it goes out his own immediate possession in any way whatever, this bequest of improvement is on condition that he does & performs what is in this will directed for him to do & perform, and I also give to my said Son the use & improvement of my Land at Popple Island so called, so far as to get fire wood there for the use of his family & his mother during his natural life, and I do hereby direct my said son to use & improve my said Homestead to good advantage & that he annually deliver to my widow during the time of her widowhood, one quarter part of the produce thereof of every kind & a sufficiency of fire wood for her use summer & winter cut at the door seasonably.~

   Item– I do give & bequeath to my beloved wife, all my household furniture & her wearing apparell, the same to be hers, her heirs & assigns forever, and I do further give her my farming utensills, she to let my son Timothy improve them so long as he has occasion for them and they last, & I further give & bequeath to her, the use & improvement of the Land which I bought of Ebenezer White, during the term of her widow-hood, and I do further give & bequeath to my said wife & my Daughter Hannah, as joint tenants, one half of my Dwelling House & one half of my orchard during the term which the first remains my widow & then to go to my said Daughter & her heirs and it is further my will that if at any time my said widow shall be discontented with what I have ordered my said son Timothy in this my last will to do & perform for & allow to her, she may relinquish the same & instead thereof take the use & improvement of one half of my homestead farm so long as she remains my widow, and it is further my will that after she ceases to be my widow the same shall revert to my said son to his use & improvement as aforesaid, and it is further my will that if what is in this my last will given & bequeathed to my said wife shall prove insufficient for her support, that in such case my said wife is hereby authorised & impowered to sell so much of said half of my said homestead which she shall improve, as shall be sufficient (with what is in this will bequeathed to her) to support her during her widow-hood comfortably & appropriate the proceeds of such sale to said purpose, & make & execute a good & lawful Deed or Deeds of the same.~

   Item— It is my will, that my Executors herein after named do sell all my Live Stock, & appropriate the proceeds of such sale together with the debts which may be due to me at the time of my decease to the payment of my just debts–funeral charges & the charges of settling my estate, and it is further my will that if this provision should provide insufficient to answer that purpose, that in such case my Executors sell so much of the Lands which I bought of Ebenezer White as shall therewith be sufficient therefor & apply the proceeds thereof to that purpose, notwithstanding any thing in this will which may seem to the contrary

   Item– It is further my will, that if my said son Timothy should die and leave his wife a widow, that she shall have a home in my dwelling house so long as she remains his widow

   Item– I Give & bequeath to the eldest surviving son of my said son Timothy one half of my homestead farm after the death of my said son, the same to be his, his heirs & assigns forever

   Item– I Give & bequeath to my two Daughters Anna the wife of Joseph Claghan, and Lydia the wife of Thomas Bassett the remaining part of the other half of my said homestead (if any of it shall be sold as aforesaid, if not then the whole of said half) after the death of my said son Timothy, they to hold it as tenants in common and not as joint tenants, the same to be to theirs & their heirs & assigns forever

   Item– I Give & bequeath to my Daughter Hannah, with what I have already given her in this my last will & testament, the whole of the Lands which I bought of Ebenezer White, excepting any part thereof that may be sold by my Executors as is directed in this my last will, she to come into the possession thereof at the time when my said wife shall cease to be my widow, the same to be her & her heirs & assigns, and if my said Daughter should marry or should die leaving no issue after the decease of my said wife, and before the decease of my said Son Timothy, that in such case my said Son Timothy shall have the use & improvement of the other half of my house & orchard under the same restrictions as he is to use and improve the first half thereof

   Item– I do hereby constitute & appoint my beloved wife Susannah and Captain Stephen Wing to be the Executors of this my Last will & testament and if either of them should die, in such case, the survivor to have, use, and exercise all the powers of a Sole Executor

   Item—I do hereby nullify and make void all wills heretofore made by me, and do establish this instrument, as my Last will & testament—In testimony of all which I do hereto set my hand & seal, this first day of April in the year of our Lord one thousand, seven hundred & ninety four.–

Signed, Sealed and declared by the said                                                                                           his

Sylvanus Mendall, as his Last will &                                                                              Sylvanus  X  Mendall                         (seal)

testament, in the presence of us the sub-                                                                                         mark

scribers.

                Caleb Blackwell

                William Reed

                Abrm. Holmes

 

Presented for probate on 5 Nov. 1795 by Susanna Mendall, the Executrix therein named, and proved by Caleb Blackwell & Abraham Holmes, two of the witnesses.

 

Abraham Holmes Esq., Seth Blackwell, & Nicholas Davis, yeomen, all of Rochester, were appointed to appraise the estate of Sylvanus Mendall, late of Rochester, yeoman, on 12 Mar. 1795. The inventory of the estate of Sylvanus Mendall, late of Rochester, yeoman, was dated 12 Mar. 1795, and totaled £341.7.6, including his real estate valued at £254. Susanna Mendall, the executrix of the estate, gave her oath to the inventory on 5 Nov. 1795.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 35, p. 393-396, from FHL microfilm #0550718.

 

 

Will of Abraham Miller of Middleborough, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1815) *

In the name of God amen. I Abraham Miller of Middleborough in the County of Plymouth in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts yeoman, being considerably advanced in Years but of a sound mind & memory, blessed be God for the same, wherefore calling to mind the Mortality of my Body knowing that it is appointed to all men once to die I do hereby make & ordain this to be my last will & Testament to remain firm & inviolable forever, principally & first of all I give my Soul to God, that gave it & my Body to the Dust to be buried in a decent manner at the Discretion of my Friends and Executor hereafter named in hopes that the same Body will be raised again at the general Resurrection by the mighty Power of God, and as to such worldly Estate as it hath pleased God to bless me with, I do hereby dispose of the same as followeth, Viz –

                Imprimis I give & bequeath to my true & well beloved Wife Thankful Miller & to her Heirs & Assigns forever all of my household Furniture including my Watch & Library also three Cows & one Swine & also my Horse & Chaise, if I shall own any at my decease, I also give unto her during her natural Life the use & Improvement of all of my other Estate of all Sorts, including all of the Balance that shall be found in the hands of my Executor by his selling real Estate, or otherwise after he shall have paid all of my Debts funeral Charges & the Expences of settling of my Estate excepting my Apparel, Money, & debts that shall be due to me at my decease, also excepting my part of the Lands & Buildings that I own in company with Thomas Weston Esqr. Wilkes Wood Esqr. my Brother Jacob Miller & his Sons Elias Miller & Jacob Miller Junr. & also excepting one half of my Lot of Woodland. furthermore my Will is & I do hereby give to my said Wife full power & Liberty if she shall stand in need of it for her own use & comfort to sell & dispose of any part or all of the personal Estate that I have given her the use of during her natural Life only & not for her Heirs to be accountable therefor, excepting the money that shall be paid to her by my Executor after he hath paid my Debts, Charges and Expences as aforesaid —

                Item I give & bequeath to my Brother Isaac Miller & to his Heirs & Assigns forever one half of my Apparel for him to come into possession of at my decease, I also give my said Brother that half of my Lot of Woodland that I have by this Will given the use of to my said wife for him my said Brother to come into the possession of the same at the Death of my said Wife.—

                Item I give & bequeath to my Brother Jacob Miller & to his Heirs & Assigns forever the other half of my Apparel for him to come into possession of the same at my decease –

                Item I give and bequeath to my Nephew Isaac Cushman Junr. & to his Heirs & assigns forever the one half of all my home Farm & the Buildings thereon standing for him to come into possession thereof at the Death of my said Wife, the same I give unto him on condition that he shall well & truly pay all of the Legaises that I shall hereafter by this Will give & order for him to pay –

                Item I give & bequeath to Abraham Miller Cushman Son of said Isaac Cushman Junr. & to his Heirs & Assigns forever the other half of my home Farm & Buildings thereon standing for him to come into possession of the same at the Death of my said Wife. —

                Item. I give & bequeath to my Nephew Elias Cushman & to his Heirs & Assigns forever one hundred Dollars to be paid to him at the death of my said Wife by the said Isaac Cushman Jr.

                Item I give & bequeath to my Nephew Zebulon Cushman & to his Heirs & assigns forever all of my part of a Gristmill standing on Nemasket River in said Middleborough & all of the privileges & appurtenances thereunto belonging for him to come into possession thereof at the Death of my said Wife —

                Item I give & bequeath to my Nephews Elias Miller & Jacob Miller Junr. & to their Heirs & Assigns forever five hundred Dollars in equal halves to be paid to them at the Death of my said Wife by the before named Isaac Cushman Junr.—

                Item I give & bequeath to my Niece Olive Shaw forty Dollars & to her Daughter Sarah Miller Shaw thirty Dollars & to their Heirs & Assigns forever to be paid to each of them at the Death of my said Wife by the before named Isaac Cushman Junr.–

                Item I give & bequeath to my Niece Sally Morton thirty Dollars & to her Daughter Susanna Barrows forty Dollars & to their Heirs & Assigns forever to be paid to them at the Death of my said Wife by the before named Isaac Cushman Junr—

                Item I give & bequeath to my Nieces hereafter named & to their Heirs & Assigns forever, as followeth namely to Sally Miller one hundred Dollars to Olive Reed fifty Dollars to Olive Vaughan fifty Dollars, to Betsy Vaughan fifty Dollars to Susanna Clark forty Dollars & to Hannah Thomas twenty Dollars, to be paid to them respectively at the Death of my said Wife by the before named Isaac Cushman Junr. —

                Item I give & bequeath to Julia R. Foster that now lives with me & to her Heirs & Assigns forever forty Dollars to be paid to her at the Death of my said Wife by the before named Isaac Cushman Junr. —

                Item I give & bequeath to my Niece Rebecca Cushman & to her Heirs & Assigns forever fifty Dollars to be paid to her at the Death of my said Wife by the said Isaac Cushman Junr. –

                Item after my just Debts funeral charge & the Expence of settling my Estate is paid as I shall by this will order, I give & bequeath to the before named Jacob Miller Elias Miller & Jacob Miller Junr. & to Isaac Cushman the third & Joseph Cushman the third, the two last named being Sons of my Nephew Eliphalet Cushman deceased & to Peter Vaughan & Cushman Vaughan both Sons of the before named Betsy Vaughan & to their & each of their Heirs & Assigns forever the Reversion of all of the property both real & personal of all sorts that I have given only the use & Improvement of to my said Wife during her natural Life, that she shall not stand in need of & convert to her own use agreeably to this Will excepting & reserving what I have otherwise particularly mentioned & given away by this will for them in equal proportion to come into possession of the same at the Death of my said Wife –

                Furthermore my Will is & I do hereby order & empower my Executor hereafter named to take all of my Money that I shall leave & collect all Debts that shall be due to me at my Decease & if I shall not while living sell my part of the Land & Buildings that I own in company with the said Thomas Weston, Wilkes Wood, Jacob Miller, Elias Miller & Jacob Miller Junr. & one half of my Lot of Woodland, then to sell to the best Advantage at his Discretion & pass Deeds to convey all of my part of the Lands & Buildings that I own in company as aforesaid, and also one half of my Lot of Woodland and take the neat proceeds of said sale & my said Money & Debts that shall be due to me at my decease & for him my said Executor first to pay all of my just Debts funeral Charges & the Expence of settling of my Estate & after paying said Debts Charge & Expence to pay over to my said Wife, any surplus of Money that shall be left in his hands for her to use & improve during her natural Life.—

                Lastly my Will is & I do hereby appoint my Friend Isaac Thomson Esqr. Sole Executor of this my last Will & Testament- Thus hoping that that this my last Will & Testament will be kept & performed according to the true Intent & meaning thereof I the before named Abraham Miller have hereunto set my hand & Seal this sixteenth day of November in the year of our Lord eighteen hundred & fifteen

Signed, sealed, published, pronounced & declared by the

said Abraham Miller to be his last will & Testament

in presence of us ~~

                Benjm. Thomson

                Jerusha Thomas                                                                                                   Abraham Miller                                (seal)

                Hannah Macomber

 

Presented for probate on 1 Apr. 1817 by Isaac Thomson Esqr., the Executor therein named, and proved by Benjamin Thomson and Jerusha Thomas, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Isaac Thomson, the before named Executor.

 

William Bourne, Levi Peirce and Peter H. Peirce, all of Middleborough, Esqrs., were appointed to appraise the Estate of Abraham Miller, late of Middleborough, yeoman, on 1 Apr. 1817. The Inventory of the Estate of Abraham Miller, late of Middleborough, dated 15 Apr. 1817, totaled $5083.07, his real estate valued at $4223 included his homestead and buildings valued at $2600. Isaac Thomson Esqr., the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 1 May 1817.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 48, pp. 408-410, 453, from FHL microfilm #0550905.

 

 

Will of Elias Miller of Middleborough, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1807) *

  In the Name of God Amen I Elias Miller of Middleborough in the County of Plymouth in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts Gentleman being advanced in Years and labouring under Infirmity of Body but of a sound & disposing Mind and Memory, Blessed be God for the same, calling to mind the Mortality of my Body & knowing that it is appointed to all men once to die, I do make & ordain this to be my last will and Testament, to remain firm & inviolable forever – principally & first of all, I give my Soul to God that gave it, & my Body to the Dust to be buried in a decent manner at the discretion of my Executor hereafter named trusting that at the General Resurrection, I shall receive the same Body again by the mighty Power of God & as to such worldly Estate as it hath pleased God to bless me with, I do dispose of the same as followeth, namely –

        Imprimis I give & bequeath to my Brother Abraham Miller & to his Heirs and Assigns forever about two acres of Cedar swamp lying in Woods Cedar swamp in said Middleborough and is all of the Cedar Swamp that I own in said woods Cedar swamp. –

& also one fourth part of all of my wearing Apparel, I also give unto my said Brother Abraham Miller the use & Improvement of all of the Land that I own in the little Lot mens purchase in said Middleboro. and it contains about seven Acres be it more or less & lyeth westerly on Nemasket River in said Middleboro. I also give unto said Abraham the use & Improvement of one half of that part of a Grist Mill that I own standing at a place known by the New Works on said Nemasket River in said Middleboro. which last mentioned seven acres of Land & part of a Mill, I give said Abraham the use of, during his natural Life: I also give & bequeath to said Abraham Miller the use & Improvement of my part of the Land that I & the said Abraham, Wilkes Wood Esqr. & Thomas Weston purchased of the first precinct in said Middleborough during his natural Life –

        Item I give & bequeath to Elias Cushman Son of Isaac Cushman of said Middleboro. twenty Dollars –

        Item I give & bequeath to Zebulon Cushman Son of said Isaac Cushman twenty Dollars –

        Item I give and bequeath to Isaac Cushman junr. Son of said Isaac Cushman twenty Dollars –

        Item I give & bequeath to the three Sons of Eliphalet Cushman late of said Middleboro. deceased, the Sum of twenty Dollars each of them –

        Item I give and bequeath to Olive Miller Daughter of my Brother Jacob Miller & to her Heirs and assigns forever one Feather Bed & Furniture suitable for the same –

        Item I give and bequeath to Sarah Miller Daughter of said Jacob Miller and to her Heirs and assigns forever forty Dollars –

        Item I give and bequeath to the widow Sarah Morton Daughter of the before named Isaac Cushman & to her Heirs & assigns forever forty Dollars –

        Item I give & bequeath to Christiana Morton wife of Nathaniel Morton & Daughter of my late beloved wife Theodate Miller & to her Heirs & assigns forever twenty five Dollar –

        Item I give & bequeath to my Brother Jacob Miller & to his Heirs & assigns forever my Bible Watch, Horse and best Hat. –

        Item after my just debts funeral Charges & all expences are first paid then my Will is and I do hereby give and bequeath all of the remaining part & residue of my Estate of all sorts to my said Brother Jacob Milles & his Sons Elias Miller Jacob Miller junr. & to their Heirs & assigns forever, to be divided equally amongst them, only my Will is & I do hereby order that if in case that either the said Elias Miller or Jacob Miller junr. Sons of my said Brother Jacob Miller shall die leaving no lawful Issue, that in that case the share that I by this Will have given to him that shall so decease shall descend to & be equally divided between the one of them that shall survive & Abraham Miller another Son of my said Brother Jacob Miller furthermore my will is that my said Brother Jacob & his two Sons namely Elias & Jacob shall by this Clause in my Will hold & enjoy all of that part of my Estate that I have by this will the use of to my Brother Abraham during his natural Life, & not to his Heirs & assigns at his said Abraham’s decease –

        And I do hereby revoke & disannul all former will or wills made by me –

        Lastly my will is & I do hereby appoint my Trusty Friend Isaac Thomson Esqr. of said Middleboro. sole Executor of this my last will & Testament –

        Thus hoping that this my last will & Testament will be kept & performed according to the true Intent & meaning of the same, I the before named Elias Miller have hereunto set my hand & Seal this ninth day of May in the Year of our Lord eighteen hundred & seven –

Signed sealed published, pronounced

and declared by the before named Elias Miller

to be his last Will & Testament in presence of us.                                                        Elias Miller                                        (seal)

        Joseph Clark

        Josiah D Foster

        Hannah Macomber

 

Presented for probate on 21 May 1807 by Isaac Thomson Esqr the Executor therein named, and proved by Joseph Clark and Hannah Macomber, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Isaac Thomson Esqr. the before named Executor.

 

Thomas Sproat, Joseph Clark and Nathl. Wilder junr. all of Middleborough, Gentlemen, were appointed to appraise the Estate of Elias Miller, late of Middleborough, Gentleman, on 21 May 1807. The Inventory of the Estate of Elias Miller, late of Middleborough, was dated 26 June 1807, his personal estate valued at $4006.64, including $3712.50 in money and notes, and his real estate valued at $1102.25. Isaac Thomson Esqr., the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 6 July 1807.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 42, p. 88-90, from FHL microfilm #0550902.

 

 

Will of Francis Miller of Middleborough, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1746) *

Know all men by these presents that I Francis Miller of the Town of Middleboro. in the County of Plimouth in New England being at this present time in health & of sound & disposeing memory and understanding, blessed be God for the same yet being Sensible of my own Mortallity & knowing that it is appointed for all men Once to die, Do make & Ordain this to be my last Will & Testament to remain firm & Inviolable forever,—

Imprs. I Give and bequeath unto my well beloved wife Experience Miller the use and improvement of the one third part of all my Homestead lands and meadows which lyeth there adjoyning together on the Westerly side of the brooke Called Queen brooke and also the use & improvement of One third part of the Buildings theron dureing the time She remains my Widdow. allso I Give & bequeath unto my sd. wife the Value of Fifty pounds old tenour Out of my Personel Estate to be at her own Disposeing,  Item I give & bequeath unto my three Brothers John Miller David Miller & Elias Miller & their Heirs and Assigns forever all the remaining part of my Estate both real and personal with the debts due unto me, my Just debts & funeral Charges being first paid out of the Same, the Same to be Equally divided between them Saveing that my Brother John Miller Shall first have out of the whole the Value of fifty pounds old tenour more then his Equal part, And my Will is that my Brother John Miller be Execr. of this my last will & Testament thus hopeing that this my last Will & Testament will be kept and performed According to the true intent & meaning therof I Commit my body to the Dust, and my Soul to God that Gave it. In Witness wherof I the Aforesaid Francis Francis Miller have hereunto Set my hand and Seal this 29th. day of October One thousand Seven hundred forty & Six—

Signed Sealed & Declared by the                                                                                     Francis Miller                                  (seal)

abovenamed Francis Miller

to be his last Will & Testamt.

        In Presence of us –

Jacob Tomson

Joseph Tinkam

James Faunce

 

Presented for probate by the Executor on 6 Apr. 1747, and proved by Joseph Tinkam, Jacob Tomson, and James Faunce, the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Jno. Miller of Middleboro, yeoman, the Executor, on 6 Apr. 1747.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Mr. Francis Miller late of Middleboro, was appraised by Nathl. Southworth, John Weston, and Nehh. Washburne on 14 May 1747, and totaled £2797.8.6, including his home farm with the buildings and fences thereon valued at £1900. Jno. Miller, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 14 July 1747.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 10, p. 439-441, from FHL microfilm #0551535.

 

 

Will and Codicil of Isaac Miller of Middleborough, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1826) *

                I, Isaac Miller of Middleborough in the County of Plymouth, being of sound and disposing mind and memory, do, this eighth day of July Anno Domini One thousand eight hundred & twenty-six, make this my last Will and Testament, bequeathing my soul to God who gave it and my body to the earth to be buried in a decent Christian burial at the discretion of my Executor herein after appointed, and I dispose of my personal Estate as follows, viz.

Imprimis, I give to my niece Betsey Vaughan, the widow of Peter Vaughan, three hundred dollars

2d. I give to my nephew Peter Vaughan, three hundred dollars.

3d. I give to Cushman Vaughan son of my said niece, three hundred dollars.

4h. I give to Joseph Vaughan son of my said niece, three hundred dollars.

5h. I give to my nephew Stillman Vaughan, three hundred dollars.

6. I give to Betsey Harlow wife of William Harlow, fifty dollars.

7. I give to Olive Shaw, widow of Saml. Shaw, one hundred dollars.

8. I give to the widow Sarah Morton my niece fifty dollars.

9h. I give to Susannah Barrows, daughter of Joshua Morton, deceased, fifty dollars.

10. I give to Isaac Miller Cushman three hundred & fifty dollars.

11. I give to Olive the wife of Daniel Vaughan one hundred dollars.

12. I give to Hannah the wife of Hushai Thomas one hundred dollars.

13. I give to Rebecca wife of John Cushman one hundred dollars.

14. I give to Zebulon Cushman my nephew two hundred dollars.

15. I give to Isaac Cushman the son of Eliphalet Cushman, deceased, one hundred dollars and the debt he owes me.

16. I give to Polly Hall the wife of Nathaniel fifty dollars

17. I give to Hannah Cushman the daughter of Isaac Cushman fifty dollars.

18. I give to Jacob Miller the son of my brother Jacob three hundred dollars.

19. I give to Sally Miller daughter of my brother Jacob thirty seven dollars besides what I had given here before.

20. I give to Deborah Miller daughter of my brother Jacob one hundred dollars.

21. I give to Olive Reed daughter of my brother Jacob, one hundred dollars.

22. I give to Saba Long daughter of my brother Jacob one hundred dollars

23. I give to the daughter (not knowing her named) of Betsey the daughter of my brother Jacob fifty dollars.

24. I give to Susannah daughter of my brother Jacob one hundred dollars.

25. I give to my cousin Abraham Holmes three hundred dollars.

                And I establish this as my last Will & Testament, and appoint my cousin Abraham Holmes sole Executor thereof.
In testimony of all which I hereto put my hand & seal the day and date first abovesaid.

Signed, sealed, & declared                                                                                                Isaac Miller                                       (seal)

by the said Isaac Miller

to be his last Will and Testament in presence of us

                                                                                                                                                Elkanah Sears

                                                                                                                                                Joseph Clark

 

                I, Isaac Miller, signer of the foregoing Will, this sixth day of April, Anno Domini one thousand eight hundred & twenty seven, being of sound & disposing mind & memory, apprehending that I have not in the foregoing Will disposed of all my personal estate (having disposed of all my real estate) do dispose of the rest and residue of my personal estate as follows, to wit:

First, I give to Betsey Vaughan my niece, in addition to what is given here in said Will, one hundred dollars, my chaise, chest & bed, and bedding.

2d. I give to my nephew Peter Vaughan, in addition to what is in said Will, fifty dollars.

3d. I give to my nephew Cushman Vaughan fifty dollars in addition to what is given him in sd. Will.

4h. I give to Betsey Harlow, wife of William Harlow, fifty dollars more

5h. I give to Jacob Miller son of my brother Jacob the additional sum of fifty dollars.

6h I revoke two hundred of the dollars given in said Will Stilman Vaughan, and reduce his legacy to one hundred dollars only.

                And I do establish the said Will and this Codicil thereto as my last Will and Testament, and revoke all other wills before made by me.         In testimony of all which I do hereto set my hand & seal the day last abovesaid

Signed, sealed, and

declared by the said                                                                                                            Isaac Miller                                       (seal)

Isaac Miller as his last

Will and Testament in presence of us.                                                                             Elkanah Sears

                                                                                                                                                Nehemiah Bennet

 

Presented for probate on 1 May 1827 by Abraham Holmes, the Executor therein named, and proved by Joseph Clark, one of the witnesses to the will, and Elkanah Sears, the other witness to the Will and also a witness to the Codicil. Letters of Administration were granted to Abraham Holmes, the before named Executor.

 

Benjamin P. Wood, Seth Southworth, and Job Peirce, all of Middleborough, were appointed to appraise the Estate of Isaac Miller, late of Middleborough, on 1 May 1827. The Inventory of the Estate of Isaac Miller, late of Middleboro’, was dated 1 May 1827, and totaled $5208.09, including $1560.55 in cash, and $3596.21 in Notes on sundry persons, but no real estate. Abraham Holmes, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 1 May 1827, and he was directed to sell at public or private sale the whole personal estate of the deceased not specifically devised in his will.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 64, p. 17-21, from FHL microfilm #0555258.

 

 

Will of Jedidiah Miller of Middleborough, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1834) *

        Be it remembered, that I, Jedidiah Miller, of Middleborough, in the County of Plymouth and Commonwealth of Massachusetts, being ninety one years of age, but of sound and disposing mind and memory: and in good health make and establish my will as follows, viz:-

        I give and bequeath to my grand daughter, Sarah Haskins, the wife of Galen Haskins, who both now live with me, One thousand dollars, to be paid out of my personal estate, or real estate, as she and her husband and my other devisees shall agree, otherwise, in cash within one year after my decease, to her, her heirs and assigns forever.

        And my will is, that all the residue of my estate, real and personal shall be equally divided between my Son, Jedidiah Miller, my Grand-son Jedidiah Miller, the son of my son Jacob Miller deceased, and my Grand-Daughter Sarah Haskins aforsaid, share and share alike, to hold to them and their respective heirs and assigns, and for their own use and benefit forever,— My debts and funeral charges being first paid by my Executors herein named, And I do hereby revoke all former wills by me made. And I nominate and appoint Galen Haskins, above named, and Seth Southworth of Middleborough aforesaid, Executors of this my Will.  Witness my hand and seal this twenty-fifth day of September, in the year eighteen hundred and thirty - four.

        N. B. The name “Jacob,” was erased, and Jedidiah substituted by interlining the word “my” and the word deceased, interlined before the execution hereof.

                                                                                                                                                Jedidiah Miller                                 (seal)

        Signed, sealed, published and declared by Jedidiah Miller to be his last Will and Testament in presence of us, who subscribed to the same in his presence.

                                Wilkes Wood

                                Wm H. Wood

                                Charles W. Wood

 

Presented for probate on the last Tuesday of May 1838 by Galen Haskins and Seth Southworth, the Executors therein named, and proved by Wm. H. Wood and Charles W. Wood, two of the witnesses whose names are subscribed thereto. Letters Testamentary were granted to Galen Haskins and Seth Southworth, the Executors therein named.

 

Galen Haskins of Middleborough was granted Letters Testamentary on the Estate of Jedediah Miller, late of Middleborough, on 9 Apr. 1838, with Joshua Haskins Jr. and Enoch Haskins, both of Middleborough, as sureties.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Jedidiah Miller, late of Middleborough, was appraised by Benjamin P. Wood, Thomas Lovell, and Nathaniel Staples on 31 Mar. 1838, his real estate valued at $13,977, and his personal estate valued at $872.95. Galen Haskins, Special Administrator on the Estate of Jedediah Miller, late of Middleborough, gave his oath to the inventory on 29 May 1838.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 80, pp. 164-165, 497, from FHL microfilm #0555265, and Vol. 10A, p. 577.

 

 

Will of John Miller 2d of Middleborough, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1759) *

In the name of God Amen May 16h: 1759  I John Miller the Second of Midleborough in the County of Plymouth in New England Husbandman being weak of bodey but of a Sound mind & Memory and Calling to minde the mortallity of My bodey & Knowing that it is appointed unto all men once To Die Do make and ordain this my Last will & Testament that is To Say princepally and first of All I Recommend my Sole into the hands of that God who gave it and my bodey I Recommend to the Dust To be buried with Cristian burial nothing Doubting but at the Resurrection I Shall Receve the Same agin by the Power of God all mighty and as Touching Such worldly Estate wherewith it hath Pleas’d God to bless me with in this Life I Give & Dispose of the Same in the following manner and forme that is To Say

1. it is my will that all my Debts & funeral Charges be well & Truly paid in Convenient Time after my Decease

2dly. I Give & bequeth unto my well beloved wife Margret all the Estate all the Goods of Every Sort & Kinde which I had with her at the Time of her marage and the Improvement of one half of my home farme til my youngest Son Alexander Comes to ye. age of Twenty one years and also rpay[?] more to her her heirs and assigns forever and also Thirteen Pounds Six Shillings & Eight Pence to be Paid her by my Son Alexander when he Comes to the age of Twenty years in Case She Remains my widdow Til that Time

3dly. I Give & bequeth unto my well beloved Son Ezrah Six & Twenty pounds Thirteen Shillings & four Pence to be Paid him by my Son John when he is my Son John Comes to the age of Twenty one years

4thly I Give & bequeth unto my Son my weel beloved Son John the one half of my Home farme to him his heirs and assigns for ever and the Improvement of from the Time of my Deceas.

5thly. I Give & bequeth unto my well beloved Son Alexander the one half of my home farme to him his heirs and assignes forever to Come into the Improvement of it at the age of Twenty one years Til which Time the Improvement of the half of my farm to be in the hands of my wife with home I Leve ye. Care of this my youngest Son

6thly. I Give & bequeth unto my Well beloved dughter Experiance the Wife of Isaac Bardin Eight Pounds To be Paid her By my Son John when he Comes to age of Twenty one years as also one third of my Movable Estate after My Debts are Paid

7thly. I give & bequeth To my well Beloved Daughter wait Sill, ye. wife of Jacob Tomson Two Thirds of my movable Estate after my Debts are Paid and Eight Pounds To be Paid her by my Son John when he Comes To the age of 21 years

8thly. My wearing Apearil I give to Each of my sons to be Equally divided amst them In cais my well beloved wife Margrett Should Decese or Marry before my Son Alexander is 21 years I order him to my Son Ezrah & John five Pounds Thirteen Shillings & four Pence to Each this Sum at the age of 21 years

Finally I Constitute & appoint my weel beloved frind Thomas Henery of Bridgwater in the County of Plymouth Sole Executor of this my last will and Testament Disallowing all other wills before this Time by me made and holding This & no other to be my Last will & Testament in Testemony where of I have hereunto Set my hand & Seal the Day & year above written

Signed Sealed Published & Panouncd &                                                                        John Miller                                        (seal)

Declared in Presenc of us the

Subscribers

Benjamin Tucker                 }

Jabez Cushman                   }

Lemuel Dunham                 }

 

Presented for probate on 4 June 1759 by the Executor therein named, and proved by Benjamin Tucker and Jabez Cushman. Letters of Administration were granted to Thomas Henery of Bridgwater, the Executor, on 4 June 1759.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of John Miller the Second late of Midleborough, husbandman, was appraised on 5 June 1759 by Benja. Tucker, Elijah Clap, and Jabez Cushman, and totaled £256.7.8, including his real estate valued at £186.13.4. Thomas Henery, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 15 Oct. 1761.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 15, p. 286-288, from FHL microfilm #0551543, and Vol. 16, p. 212.

 

 

Will of John Miller 2d of Middleborough, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1794) *

        Know all Men that I John Miller 2d. of Middleborough in the County of Plymouth & Commonwealth of Machusetts Gentleman, being weak of Body yet of a sound Mind & Memory blessed be God for the same, yet considering that it is appointed for all Men once to die do make & ordain this my last Will and Testament in Manner following that is to say ~~

        First I give and bequeath to my well beloved wife Zilpha Miller, in the Room of her legal Right of Dower of thirds in my Real & personal Estate the Improvement of one third part of all my Lands together with one half of what I now own in the gristmill & one half of my dwelling house where I now live all for her to use occupy & improve as long as she shall remain my widow excepting this privilege, which I shall hereafter in this Instrument give to my Daughter’s in said premises also I give & bequeath to my said Wife Zilpah as her own property half of my indoor moveables or Household Furniture & articles for Housekeeping together with two Cows & six sheep & also to have the privilege of a Horse to ride at any time when she shall see cause during her Widowhood free of Expence.—

        I give & bequeath to my Son John Miller 3d. of said Middleborough all my Real Estate of all kinds excepting such parts thereof as I shall hereafter in this Instrument give to my Daughters & such privileges therein as I have already herein give to my Wife aforesaid. Also I give & bequeath to him my said Son all my live stock & out door moveables together with all my Dues & Demands on any person or persons, whatever he paying the Debts & Legacies &c as hereafter mentioned to have & to hold all the several Rights & privileges as aforesaid to him my said Son John his Heirs & assigns forever.—

        I give and bequeath to my Daughter Hannah the Wife of Abraham Shaw 2d. of said Middleborough, one good Cow or the Value thereof in Money & two sheep or the Value thereof in Money all to be made out of my Estate herein before given to my Son John–

        I give and bequeath to my Daughter Lydia the Wife of Jacob Wood of said Middleborough one good Cow & two sheep or the value thereof in Money to be made out of that part of my Estate herein before given to my son John—

        I give & bequeath to my Daughter Zilpah Porter the Wife of James Porter of said Middleborough one good Cow & two sheep or the value thereof in Money to be made out of that part of my Estate herein before given to my Son John —

        I give & bequeath to my Daughter Priscilla Miller, one good Cow two sheep or the value thereof in Money, also the value of fifteen Pounds lawful Money in suitable Ware & Furniture for House keeping to be delivered & made out to her out of that part of my Estate herein before given to my Son John —

        I give and bequeath to my Daughter Minerva Miller the Value of one good Cow & two Sheep, or the value thereof in Money also fifteen Pounds value of lawful Money in suitable Ware & Furniture for House keeping to be paid to her out of that part of my Estate herein given to my Son John —

        I give and bequeath to my said Son John & my several before named Daughters to be equally divided between them all the Estate both Real and personal which may fall to me as an Heir in the Settlement of the Estate of John Miller my late Father decd —

        I give and bequeath to my several Daughters before named all my Cedar swamp or right owned by me and my wife in Black brook Cedar Swamp so called, which was formerly the Estate of John Tinkham my Father-in-Law deceased which lies Eastward of a Sine beginning at the north east corner of a Piece of Meadow Ground now owned by George Hackett thence ranging northward the same Course as said Hacket’s Easterly Line runs untill it strikes Mr Rider’s Meadow Also all that piece of Meadow in a place in said Middleborough called the lower Meadow which fell to my wife as an Heir to the Estate of her Father John Tinkham aforesaid, Also the one half of all the my Household Furniture & Articles for Housekeeping, all of the several parts & parcels of Estate to be divided equally amongst them, to have & to hold the same to them their Heirs and assigns — My will is & I hereby order that my Daughters now unmarried shall have a privilege of living with my said wife in that part of the Dwelling-house herein allowed to her as long as they shall live unmarried, with privileges of Fire Wood delivered at the Door a reasonable proportion with their Mother, also to each of them as long as they shall live unmarried three Bushels of Corn & one Bushel of Rye yearly. – Also if my said Wife shall marry my Will is that she shall return one Cow, which is herein before given to her, or the value thereof to my several Daughters to belong equally among them – And my Will is that my Daughters unmarried shall share equal with thier Mother in the half of the Gristmill as long as they shall live unmarried.– And my Will is & I hereby order that all my just debts funeral Charges & Legacies herein mentioned shall be paid by my Son John out of his part of said Estate —

        And my Will is and I do hereby constitute & appoint my said Son John Miller 3d. to be Executor to this my last Will & Testament – thus hoping that this my last Will and Testament will be carefully kept & performed according to the true Intent & meaning thereof I commit my Soul to God who gave it & my Body to the dust to a decent Burial. In Witness whereof I the said John Miller 2d. have hereto set my hand & Seal this seventh day of June– In the Year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred & Ninety four.—

signed sealed & declared by the sd. John Miller 2d.

as his will and Testament in presence                                                                             his

of us—                                                                                                                        John   X  Miller 2d                         (seal)

        Seth Miller

        Nehh. Bennett                                                                                                               mark

        Joseph Miller

 

Presented for probate on 13 Apr. 1808 by John Miller 3d., the Executor therein named, and proved by Nehemiah Bennet Esqr. & Joseph Miller, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters Testamentary were granted to John Miller 3d. the fore named Executor.

 

The inventory of the estate of John Miller, late of Middleborough, Gentleman, dated 26 May 1808, was appraised by Thompson Miller, Seth Miller Junr. & George Hackett. His personal estate was valued at $483.26, and his real estate at $3715.00, including his homestead at $3500, and his right in his deceased father’s estate at $100. John Miller 3d., Executor to the Will of John Miller 2d., deceased, gave his oath to the inventory on 3 June 1809.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 42, pp. 292-293, 517, from FHL microfilm #0550902.

 

 

Will of Lucy Miller of Middleborough, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1833) *

        In the Name of God Amen. I Lucy Miller of Middleborough in the County of Plymouth and Commonwealth of Massachusetts Single woman, do make, ordain and declare this instrument to be my last Will and Testament revoking all others

Imprimis — All my Debts of which there are but few, are to be punctually and speedily paid.

        Item. To my Nephew Earl Alden of said Middleborough with whom I now live, I give and bequeath all my Property and Estate, Real and Personal wheresoever the same may be found in said Middleborough or else where, to have and to hold the same to him in trust for the use, profit, and benefit of his children which shall be living at the time of my decease, and to be controled, managed and improved by my said Nephew without being subject to the interference or management of his said children, and without being subject to be called upon by them in any court of Law or Equity or otherwise for the use which he may make of the same or the profits which he may receive therefrom during his natural life, my intention being and I hereby expressly declare it that the benefit which the said children of my said Nephew may derive from this bequest is to depend solely on the discretion of my said Nephew, in the view he may have of the circumstances and necessaties of his said children.—

Item. I appoint my said Nephew sole Executor of this my last Will and Testament, and hereby direct him to give my Body Christian burial after my decease and Speedily pay all my just debts and Funeral charges.—  In witness whereof I  have hereto set my Hand and Seal this sixteenth day of February One thousand eight Hundred and thirty three

                                                                                                                                                Lucy Miller                                        (seal)

        Signed, sealed and declared by the above named Lucy Miller to be

her last Will and testament in presence of us who in her presence and

in the presence of each other have hereto set our names as Witnesses.

William Nelson,

Abiah N. Perkins,

Hannah F. Nelson,

 

Probated on 7 May 1833, and proved by William Nelson and Abiah N. Perkins, two of the witnesses.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 74, p. 238-239, from FHL microfilm #0555262.

 

 

Will of Seth Miller of Middleborough, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1811) *

  In the name of God Amen.  I Seth Miller of Middleborough in the County of Plymouth in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts yeoman being considerably advanced in years & under infirmities of body but of a sound mind wherefore calling to mind the mortality of my body knowing that it is appointed to all men once to die, I do hereby make & ordain this to be my last will & Testament to remain firm & inviolable forever, principally & first of all I give my soul to God that gave it, & my body to the dust to be buried in a decent manner at the discretion of my executors hereafter named in hopes of a glorious resurection & as to such worldly estate as it hath pleased God to bless me with I do hereby dispose of the same as followeth (viz)

Imprimis, I give & bequeath to my son Seth Miller junr & to his heirs and assigns forever all of the lands that I now own that I hold by a deed of sale dated March thirtieth in the year of our Lord seventeen hundred & seventy five signed & delivered to me by my honoured father John Miller late of said Middleborough deceased together with all of the buildings standing on the same excepting the one half of what I own of the saw mill its appurtenances and the priviledge of the stream of water that carrieth said mill. I also give to my said son Seth & to his Heirs & Assigns forever all of the lands that I hold by a Deed given to me by Thomas Sewal Ferington & Content his wife dated July the thirtieth day in the year of our Lord seventeen hundred & seventy five. Also my part of a pew in the easterly Precinct meeting house in said Middleborough –

   Item.  I give & bequeath to my son Thompson Miller & to his heirs & assigns for ever all of the lands & buildings that I hold by a Mortgage Deed given to me by Nathan Alden also all of the lands that I now own that I in company with Jedidiah Miller purchased of Capt Samuel Thatcher reference being had to said Thatchers deed to me & said Jedidiah dated March thirtieth in the year of our Lord seventeen hundred & seventy for further description. Also all of the Lands that I now own that I in company with the said Jedidiah Miller purchased of Paul Pratt & Jael his wife reference being had to the said Paul & Jaels deed to me & the said Jedidiah dated January the twelfth in the year of our Lord seventeen hundred & seventy one for further description.

Item.  I give & bequeath to my Grand daughter Elizabeth Alden and to her heirs & assigns forever one third part of all my household furniture.

Item.  I give & bequeath to my said two sons Seth Miller junr & Thompson Miller in equal halves, & to their & each of their heirs & assigns forever all of the remaining part & residue of my estate both real & personal including all my money & debts due to me by note or otherwise the same & also what I have given to them in the former clauses of this my will I give to them on Condition that they, in equal halves pay all my debts, funeral Charges & the expense of settling of my estate & on the further Condition that neither of them shall bring any charge against my estate for any thing that they or either of them have done or paid for me or become obligated to pay for me and I further order that neither of my said sons shall be charged for any thing I have done or paid for them & that no demands shall be made for or against either of my said sons on my account after my decease.

  Lastly, my will is & I do hereby appoint my said two sons Seth Miller jun & Thompson Miller joint Executors on this my last Will & Testament thus hoping that this my last Will & Testament will be kept & performed according to the true intent & meaning of it. I the before named Seth Miller have hereunto set my hand & seal this fifteenth day of March in the year of our Lord eighteen hundred and Eleven.

Signed, sealed, published, pronounced &       }

declared by the said Seth Miller to be his       }                                                              Seth Miller                                         (seal)

last will & testament in presence of us            }

        Zebulin Vaughan

        John Miller

        Isaac Thompson.

 

Presented for probate on 5 Aug. 1823 by Seth Miller and Thompson Miller Esqrs, the Executors therein named, and proved by Zebulin Vaughan, one of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Seth Miller and Thompson Miller Esqrs, the before named Executors.

 

Branch Harlow, Loring Miller and Nathaniel Atwood were appointed to appraise the Estate of Seth Miller, late of Middleborough, on 18 June 1823. The Inventory of the Estate of Seth Miller, late of Middleborough, dated 3 June 1824, totaled $9437.17, including his real estate valued at $5950, and notes and cash on hand of $3360.50. Seth Miller, one of the Executors, gave his oath to the inventory on 6 Oct. 1825.

 

Seth Miller of Wareham petitioned for the administration de bonis non with will annexed on the estate of Seth Miller, late of Middleborough, the executor therein named having deceased, on the fourth Monday of Aug. 1866, with Darius Miller and James G. Sproat, of Wareham, as sureties, which was granted on 27 Aug. 1866.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 57, p. 226-228, from FHL microfilm #0550909, Vol. 59, p. 479-480, and Vol. 124, p. 17.

 

 

Will of Thomas Mitchel of Bridgewater, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1776) *

In the Name of God amen the Twenty Ninth Day of January 1776 I Thomas Mitchel of Bridgwater in the County of Plymouth in New England being now of a disposing mind & memory thanks be given to the great God yet calling to mind the mortallity of the Body & knowing that is Appointed unto all men once to die do make & ordain this my last Will & Testament i.e Principally & first of all I do comend my Soul into the Hands of God who gave it & my Body I recomend to the Earth to be Buried with Christian decent Burial at the discretion of my Executor hereafter named As Touching such Worldly Estate wherewith it hath pleased God to bless me in this Life I give demise & dispose of the same in manner & form following that is to Say —

1t  Tis my Will that all my Debts & funeral Charges be well & truly paid in convenient time after my Decease ~

2d  I give & Bequeath unto my well beloved Wife Kezia the Improvment of all my Estate both within Doors & without dureing her widow hood & in case she marries again one half of my indoor moveables Estate to be hers forever ~

3ly I give & Bequeath unto my well beloved Chilldren Timothy William Thomas Calvin Lusanna & Zilpha Mitchel all my Lands & Buildings to be equally divided among them excepting that each one of my Daughters have half so much of sd. Estate as a Brother each one to come into possession of what is given them my Sons at twenty one Year of Age & my Daughteers at Eighteen

4thly The remaining part of my Estate not above disposed of I give to my Chilldren to be equally divided among them ~

5thly Tis my Will and I do hereby constitute and appoint my Well beloved Brother Nathan Mitchel to be Sole Executor of this my last Will & Testament disanulling all other Wills before this time made –     In Witness whereof I have hereunto Set my hand & Seal the Day & Year above written

Signed Sealed published pronounced

& declared by the Sd. Thomas Mitchel

in presence of us

Nathan Howard                                                                                                                   Thomas Mitchel                                (seal)

Jonathan Conant

Edward Mitchel Junr.

 

Presented for probate on 5 May 1777 by Nathan Mitchel, the Executor therein named, and proved by Nathan Hayward and Edward Mitchel junr, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Nathan Mitchel, the before named Executor.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Major Thomas Mitchel, late of Bridgwater, was appraised on 24 May 1776 by Nathan Hayward, Thomas Wade, and Edward Mitchell Junr., and totaled £635.12.5, including his homestead and buildings valued at £360, a 45 acre wood lot valued at £77.10, and a lot of cedar swamp valued at £24. Nathan Mitchel Esqr, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 7 July 1777.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 24, p. 349-350, from FHL microfilm #0550713.

 

 

Will of Abigail Mitchell of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1839) *

        I Abigail Mitchell of Bridgewater in the County of Plymouth and Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Single woman, being of sound mind and memory, do hereby make, ordain and establish this my last Will and Testament as follows,

First. I give and bequeath unto Martin Swift of said Bridgewater my silver mounted Spectacles, and unto Sally Swift wife of said Martin I give and bequeath my Merino cloak.

Second. I give and bequeath unto Elizabeth B. Perkins daughter of Ornan Perkins my Gold Necklace.

Third, I give and bequeath unto Amanda S. Perkins, daughter of said Ornan Perkins my large Silver Spoon.

Fourth I give and bequeath unto Laura Ann Perkins, daughter of said Ornan Perkins my Ear Rings.

Fifth I give and bequeath unto Eleazer Cole of said Bridgewater, all the residue and remainder of my Estate with all debts or demands due or owing to me at the time of my decease, after paying all my just debts and funeral expenses.

        I hereby constitute and appoint Artemus Hale of said Bridgewater my sole Executor to this my last Will & Testament hereby revoking and annulling all former Wills by me made,

In witness whereof I the said Abigail Mitchell have hereunto set my hand and seal this Eighteenth day of May in the year one thousand eight hundred and thirty nine.

                                                                                                                                                            her

                                                                                                                                                Abigail  X  Mitchell                             (seal)

                                                                                                                                                          mark

        Signed, Sealed published and declared to the said Abigail Mitchell to be her last Will and Testament in the presence of the subscribers, who at the request and in her presence have subscribed the same as witnesses thereto.

                Artemus Hale

                Rebekah J. Swift

                Job L. Morse

 

Presented for probate on the first Tuesday of August 1839 by Artemus Hale, the Executor, and proved by Artemus Hale and Job L. Morse, two of the witnesses.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Abigail Mitchell, late of Bridgewater, singlewoman, not dated, was appraised by Abram Washburn and Abram Washburn 2d, and totaled only $45.15, all personal estate. Artemus Hale, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 1 Oct. 1839.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 81, pp. 494-495, 496-497, from FHL microfilm #0555266.

 

 

Will of Caleb Mitchell of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1870) *

I Caleb Mitchell of Bridgewater do make & declare this my last will & Testament.

1. I give to my niece Susan Cushman wife of Noah Cushman, & daughter of my deceased sister Anna Washburn the sum of one hundred dollars.

2. I give devise & bequeath to Paulina Mitchell wife of my son William Mitchell, one undivided half part of all my lands & the buildings thereon, laying on the North easterly side of the Highway called High Street & opposite the house where I now live, containing about thirteen acres & bounded North Easterly by Satucket River, South Westerly by said Street, & on all other sides by lands of Joseph Hooper.

Also one woodlot of about three & one half acres situated on the Plain near the Bear Field – adjoining lands of Hezekiah H. Keith & of Willis Nathan or his son John D. & which lot my son Newton owned at the time of his decease & which came to me by descent on his death. To have & to hold the same to said Paulina her heirs & assigns forever.

3. I give devise & bequeath all the rest & residue of my estate real personal & mixed to my son William Mitchell, To have & to hold the same to him the said William his heirs & assigns forever.

4. I appoint my said son William Mitchell Executor of this will.

In witness whereof I hereto set my hand this sixteenth day of November, Eighteen hundred & seventy.

                                                                                                                                                Caleb Mitchell

Signed published & declared by the said Caleb Mitchell as & for his last Will & Testament in the presence of us, who at his request & in his presence have hereto subscribed our names as witnesses, at his request.

                                                                                                                Benjn. T. Crooker

                                                                                                                Williams Latham

                                                                                                                Azor Harris

                                                                                                                Hosea Kingman

 

Presented for probate on the third Monday of Oct. 1873 by William Mitchell, of Bridgewater, the Executor. Letters Testamentary were granted to William Mitchell, of Bridgewater, on 20 Oct. 1873, with John J. Howard and Francis D. King, of Bridgewater, as sureties.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 141, p. 39, from FHL microfilm #0556648, ands Vol. 124, p. 522.

 

 

Will of Calvin Mitchell of Rochester, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1824) *

In the name of God Amen. I Calvin Mitchell of Rochester in the County of Plymouth of sound and desposing mind and memory do make and ordain this my last will and testament, I bequeath my Soul to my Creator, trusting in his mercy for the forgiveness of my transgressions, touching that portion of worldly estate with which it has pleased God to bless me, I dispose of it as follows.

To my beloved wife Betsey Mitchell, I give and bequeath all my Estate Real, and Personal, to her and her heirs forever.— She paying my just debts, and I constitute and appoint my said wife the sole Executrix of this my last will and testament, In testimony of which I hereunto put my hand & seal this eighth day of November in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and twenty four.

                                                                                                                                                Calvin Mitchell                (seal)

Signed, Sealed, Published and Declared in presence of us

                                                                                                                M. H. Ruggles

                                                                                                                Benjamin F. Pope

                                                                                                                Charles J. Holmes

 

Probated on 4 May 1825, and proved by M. H. Ruggles and Charles J. Holmes, two of the witnesses. Betsey Mitchell, the appointed Executrix, declined, and requested that an administrator be appointed on 4 May 1825. Samuel Sprague Clapp, the appointed administrator, notified the court that he apprehended the estate to be insolvent on 4 May 1825.

 

Abraham Holmes & Micah H. Ruggles, Esqs, & Nathl. Clapp, Gent., all of Rochester, were appointed to appraise the estate of Calvin Mitchell, late of Rochester, Gent., dec’d, on 4 May 1825. The Inventory, dated 9 May 1825, totaled $2041.13, his homestead farm valued at $1100, and other parcels of land. Samuel S. Clapp, the administrator, gave his oath to the inventory on 19 Dec. 1825, and he informed the court that the estate was insolvent. Abrm. Holmes Esq., & Micah H. Ruggles, Esq., both of Rochester, were appointed to examine the claims against the estate on 4 May 1825. The claims, dated 25 Nov. 1825, totaled $882.19¼, but only $874.64¼ were allowed and recorded on 19 Dec. 1825.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 59, p. 156-157, from FHL microfilm #0550910 (will), and Vol. 60, p. 70-74, from FHL microfilm #0550911 (inventory & claims).

 

 

Will and Codicil of Cushing Mitchell of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1810) *

In the name of God amen. I Cushing Mitchell of Bridgwater in the County of Plymouth Gentleman, do make & ordain this my last will & Testament in manner & form following-viz.

                I give & bequeath unto my Wife Hannah one half of all my household Furniture as her own forever excepting my two Desks & Clock. Also I give & devise unto her the use occupation & Income of one third part of all my real Estate as long as she remains my Widow in lieu of her Dower excepting the real Estate I herein after give to my three Daughters. I also give her the use of a Horse & Chaise to ride as often as she may want it while She remains unmarried—

                I give and devise unto my two Daughters Alice Harris Wife of Dean. William Harris and Hannah Whitman wife of the Hon. Ezekiel Whitman equally to be divided between them all my Land at a place called the Center being about ten Acres to have & to hold the same to them their Heirs and assigns forever—

                I give & bequeath unto my Son Nahum Mitchell the Sum of five Dollars, which with what I have advanced for his Education I consider as his Share of my Estate —

                I give to my six Grandchildren the Children of my late Daughter Jennet Bryant Wife of Daniel Bryant, thirty Dollars each to be paid them as they respectively arrive to the Age of twenty one Years, or to the Daughters when they shall be married, whichever Event may first happen, & should either or any of them die before Age, unmarried & without Issue, such deceased Legatee or Legatees share shall be equally divided among the surviving Legatees in this clause above mentioned —

                I give & devise unto my Daughter Celia Keen Wife of Charles Keen a piece of Woodland in the Swamp on the east side of Sprague’s Hill so called adjoining on the south side of Bradford Mitchell’s Gore, so called & to extend east & west on said Gore from shore to Shore, just wide enough to make four Acres & to be of equal Width all the way, also I give her one hundred Dollars in Money, to have & to hold the real Estate aforesaid to her her Heirs and Assigns forever —

                I give & bequeath unto my Son Cushing three hundred Dollars in consideration of the Services & Labour he has done & performed for me since he was twenty one years old—

                Lastly I give & devise unto my three Sons, Cushing, Charles & George, all the rest and Residue of my Estate of every kind, after paying all my just debts & the Legacies & bequests herein contained to be equally divided between to have & to hold the same, to them their Heirs and Assigns forever —

                And I do now appoint my said Son Cushing Mitchell to be sole Executor of this my Last Will & Testament made the eleventh day of December in the Year of our Lord One thousand eight hundred and ten—

Signed sealed & published by the said Testator

as his last Will & Testament in the pre-

sence of us who at his request have hereto                                                                     Cushing Mitchell                             (seal)

Set our hands as Witnesses in his presence

                Alfred Whitman

                Ephraim Cary Jur.

                Nahum Mitchell the 2d.

 

        And I the said Cushing Mitchell this second day of November AD 1818 do make & publish this Codicil to my last Will & Testament aforesaid as follows – viz.

Whereas, since making my said Will I have purchased of my Son Nahum Mitchell about fifty four Acres of Land commonly called the Hearsey Place, my Will is that my three Sons Cushing, Charles & George, shall have the same, and I do accordingly devise the same to them their Heirs and Assigns forever, and it is my desire & Intent that this be annexed to & made a part of my last will & Testament to all Intents & purposes In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand & seal this second day of November AD 1818 –

Signed, sealed, published & declared by the

above named Cushing Mitchell as a

Codicil to be annexed to his last Will

& Testament in presence of ~                                                                                           Cushing Mitchell                             (seal)

        Samuel L Keen

        Alfred Whitman

        Ephraim Cary Junr.

 

Presented for probate on 3 July 1820 by Cushing Mitchell, the Executor therein named, and proved by Alfred Whitman, one of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Cushing Mitchell, the before named Executor.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 53, p. 11-12, from FHL microfilm #0550907.

 

 

Will of Edward Mitchell of Bridgewater, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1717) *

In The name of God Amen. The fourth day of February In the year of our Lord One Thousand Seven hundread & sixteen alias Seventeen. I Edward Michell of Bridgwater in the County of Plymouth in New England Gentleman being very Sick and weak of body but of perfect mind & memory thanks be given unto God therefore Calling to mind the mortality of my body and knowing that it is appointed for all men once to dye do make and ordain this my last Will and Testament, that is to Say principaly and first of all I give recomend my Soul into the hands of God that give it hopeing through the merrits death & passion of my Saviour Jesus Christ to have full and free pardon and forgiveness of all my Sins and to Inherrit everlasting life; and my body I Comitt unto the earth decently to be buried at the discretion of my Executrix hereafter named, nothing doubting but at the generall Resurrection I shall receive the same again by the mighty power of God. And as Touching Such worldly Estate wherewith it hath pleased God to bless me, I give demise and dispose of the same in the following manner and form. That is to Say.

First I will that all those debts and duties that I do owe in Right or Conscience to any manner of person or persons whatsoever Shall be well and truely contented & paid or ordained to be paid in Convenient time after my decease by my Executrix hereafter named. Item I give and bequeath unto my Son Edward my homestead whereon now I dwell with all my houseing and out houseing being about Seven Score acres be it more or less by the known bounds of it. more I give also to him my Sd Son a tract of Land lying on the easterly Side of a Swamp, being part of the Swamp Called by the name of Center Swamp being about thirty and five acres more or less as also two Lotts each Containing Twenty acres more or less, lying in a place Called John’s bridge-neck. Item I give unto my daughter Mary a parcell of Land lying on the easterly Side of Nathaniel Haywards; part of which being the house & homestead that formerly belonged to Samuel Hayward being in the whole about fifty acres more or less, according unto the known bounds, thereof. Item I give unto my daughter Alce a Certain tract or parcell of Land lying near to a pond Called Setuckit pond not far from where the Indians now dwell about an hundred acres of the Same more or less. now my Will is that if iether of these my three Childrean Should be taken away by death before They arrive to Lawfull Age or are married that then their part be divided equally between the Surviving Childrean.

Item I give and bequeath unto my loving wife Alce (whome I Constitute & by these presents Appoint as Sole Executrix of this my last Will and Testament) Severall parcells of Land that is to Say the one of them being the Second Lot in the third division being Thirty acres more or less, the other being twenty acres more or less lying near to the Lands of Mr Hearsy of Abbington; the Other being Twenty acres, lying Upon a plain Called Jonathans plain be the Same more or less. Item I give unto my wife & three Childrean abovesd. to be equally Improved by them, all my right in Cedar Swamps at a place Called punkin-bridge & at a place Called poor meadow-Cedar swamp: I give also to my wife abovesd all my moveables, as also the Improvement of all the Lands & houseing abovesd until my Sd Childrean shall Come to Lawfull age; as also a small pare of Silver money be the Same more or less; as also the fifth part of the Iron works at a place Called Titicut; with two Small Lotts of Land lying near to the Same—And further I do hereby utterly disallow revoke & disanull all former Testaments Wills and Legacies declareing this and no Other to be my last Will and Testament. and In Wittness & Confirmation hereof I have Set to my hand and Seal the day & year above written. Further my Will is, and that before the Signing and Sealing hereof that my wife above named Shall have one loom in this my now dwelling house dureing her natural life if She Se Cause, and that my Son Edward after he Come to age Shall yearly pay unto her the Sum of Ten pounds dureing her natural life if she demand the Same ~~

Signed Sealed published pronounced and declared                                                      Edward Michell    (seal)

by the sd. Edward Michell as his last will & Testament

In the presence of us the Subscribers — —

Benjamin Allen,   Eliezer Carver,  Solomon Pratt

 

Plym. Ss. On the 24th day of April Annoge Dom 1717, the above named Benjamin Allen, Eliezer Carver & Solomon Pratt made oath that they saw the above named Edward Michell Signe & Seal and heard him declare the above written Instrument to be his last Will and Testament and that he then was of a disposing mind & memory to the best of their knowledge before me

                                                                                                                                                Nathaniel Thomas  Judge of Probate

 

The inventory of the personal Estate of Edward Michell of Bridgwater…Gentleman, who deceased the fifteenth day of March 1716/17, taken on April the Nineth 1717 by Josiah Edson, Joseph Hayward, Nathaniel Brett, and Isaac Johnson, included oxen, steers, cows with calves, heifers, horses, swine, hides & leather, five beds & bedding, arms and books, etc., and totaled £814.7, including £421.8 in money and debts due to the estate.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 4, p. 17-19, from FHL microfilm #0550510.

 

 

Will & Codicil of Edward Mitchell of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Massachusetts Bay (1787) *

In the Name of God Amen—The tenth day of February 1787. I Edward Mitchell of Bridgwater in the County of Plymouth in New England, yeoman, being of perfect mind & memory, thanks be given to God therefor, calling unto mind the mortality of my body, and knowing that it is appointed for all men once to die do make & ordain this my last will & testament, that is to say, principally & first of all, I give & recommend my soul into the hands of God that gave it, and my body I recommend to the earth to be buried in decent christian burial, at the discretion of my Executor, nothing doubting but at the general resurrection I shall recieve ye same again by the mighty power of God, and as touching such worldly estate wherewith it hath pleased God to bless me in this life, I give demise & dispose of the same, in the following manner & form

Imprimis—I Give and bequeath unto Elisabeth, my well beloved wife as her right of dower of my estate, all my indoor moveables, excepting my wearing apparell & some of my books two cows and a Horse and one third of the corn grain & provision either growing in the field or stored up in house or barn at the time of my decease, also all my right in my dwelling house & a third part of the great barn and Eighty three acres of land whereon my house is in said Bridgwater, bounded as follows –vizr– on the northerly side by the lands of Ephraim Cary, and on the westerly end by the lands of Joseph Alden & John Willis & on the southerly side by the lands I gave to my son Cushing Mitchell and on the easterly end by the river (excepting my tan yard, bark house, currying shop, and shoe makers shop & Smith’s shop, and half my garden as it is now fenced) for her use & improvement so long as she shall live my widow, for her support, with liberty to cut Cedar in my swamp for fencing and repairing buildings, and my will is that what remains of the above mentioned articles, excepting lands & buildings when my wife’s term is ended, shall be equally divided between my daughters & Abigail Keith –vizr. Betee Keith wife of Eleazer Keith one fifth part, Molly Keith wife of James Keith junr one fifth part, Celia Harris wife of Arthur Harris one fifth part, Sarah Mitchell one fifth part, and Alice Keith, daughter of John Keith, being my grand-daughter one fifth part, and if either of them decease before the abovesaid term is ended, then her share to be divided to her heirs and also my riding carriage for ye use of my widow during the abovesaid term and then to be my son Elisha Mitchell’s property—

Item—I Give and bequeath to my son Edward Mitchell my Pew in the public meeting house in the south Parish in sd Bridgwater and this, together with the lands which I have before given him by Deed, I Judge to be his full share out of my estate –

Item—I Give & bequeath to my son Cushing Mitchell, one half of my Pew in the publick meeting house, in the East Parish in sd Bridgwater & one half of my tan yard, bark house & Currying shop, as it is now fenced or with a little enlargement if need be, with their appurtenances, he paying to my Executor the sum of thirty three pounds six shillings & eight pence, also one half of my horse stable at the meeting house, all this, with the land which I formerly gave him by deed, I Judge to be his full share out of my estate

Item—I Give & bequeath to my Son Elisha Mitchell (whom I likewise constitute, make & ordain, my sole Executor of this my last will & testament) and to his heirs & assigns forever, my right in the dwelling house & barns with the shoe-maker’s shop, and about sixty four acres of land bounded, as follows, on the northerly side by the lands of Ephraim Cary, and on the westerly end, by the lands of Joseph Aldens & John Willis, on the southerly side, by his own land, and on the easterly end by the river, above set forth to my widow for her dower when her term is out and all my other lands not disposed of, and one half of my Pew in the public meeting house in the east parish, and one half of my horse stable, and one half of my wearing apparell, with my Desk & Josephus’ history and Flavell’s works, also, my horse & all my money and debts due to me, and the remainder of my quick stock & farming tools, and out door moveables, he paying all my just debts, funeral charges and legacies hereafter mentioned.—

Item.—I Give and bequeath to my Son John Mitchell & to his heirs & assigns forever, one quarter part of my two Lots of Cedar Swamp which, together with the lands which I formerly gave him a deed of, I Judge to be his full share out of my estate

Item.—I Give and bequeath to my son William Mitchell, the sum of Four pounds, to be paid him, in one year after my decease, by my Executor together with the lands which I gave him a deed of, I Judge to be his full share of my Estate

Item.—I Give and bequeath to my son Bradford Mitchell, the full sum of twenty six pounds, thirteen shillings & eight pence, lawful money to be paid to him or his order, by my Executor with in two years after my decease, without Interest, this, together with the lands, I have already given him, I Judge to be his full share out of my estate

Item.—I Give & bequeath unto my son Bela Mitchell, one half of my wearing apparell, together with what I have given him by deed, I Judge to be his full share of my estate

Item.—I Give and bequeath to my Daughter Bettey Keith, the wife of Eleazer Keith, the sum of Fifteen Pounds Lawful Money to be paid to her in one year after my decease by my Executor, which, together with what I formerly gave her, I Judge to be her full share out of my Estate—

Item.—I Give and bequeath to my daughter Molly Keith the wife of James Keith junr. Fifteen Pounds Lawful Money, to be paid to her in one year after my decease, by my Executor, together with what I have given her before, I Judge to be her full share of my Estate

Item.—I Give and bequeath unto my daughter, Celia Harris, wife of Arthur Harris, the sum of Twenty three pounds & eight shillings, to be paid her in one year after my decease, by my Executor, together with what I have given her before, I Judge to be her full share of my Estate

Item—I Give and bequeath to my daughter Sarah Mitchell, the sum of Fifty Five Pounds, to be paid in one year after my decease, by my Executor, which, I Judge to be her full share of my estate

Item—I Give and bequeath unto my Grand-Daughter Alice Keith, all what I have in my hands, that was her mother’s, together with Five Pounds Lawful Money, to be paid her in one year after my decease, by my Executor, which, I Judge to be her full share of my estate — And I do hereby utterly disallow revoke and disannul, all & every other former will or testament, by me, in any ways before named, ratifying & confirming this and no other to be my last will & testament — In witness whereof, I do hereunto set my hand and seal, the day and year above written. —

Signed, Sealed, Published & Pro-

nounced by ye sd Edwd. Mitchell, as                                                                                                Edward Mitchell              (seal)

his last will & testament in the

presence of us the subscribers.-

                John Whitman junr.

                Ephraim Cary junr.

                Libeus Washburn

 

                Whereas, I Edward Mitchell of Bridgwater in the County of Plymouth above named, by my last will & testament above duly executed, bearing date the tenth of February 1787, did give & bequeath by the fourth bequeathing clause therein to my late son Elisha Mitchell, all my right in my dwelling house & barns, with the shoe makers shop & about 64 acres of land, bounded as in said bequest to said Elisha is above expressed & all my other land not disposed of, and one half of my Pew in the meeting house in the east parish in said town, one half of my horse stable, one half of my wearing apparell, with my Desk, Josephus’ History & Flavell’s works, also my horse & all my money & debts due to me, & the remainder of my Stock and farming tools & out-door moveables, on condition of his paying all my just debts funeral charges & legacies in said will mentioned, & also appointed my sd son Elisha Mitchell sole Executor of sd will.—Now I do by this my writing (which I declare to be a Codicil to my sd will, & direct to be taken as part thereof) revoke & make void the legacy & devise in & by my sd will given & made to the sd Elisha (he being since deceased) and I do hereby give, bequeath & devise to my Grandson Asa Mitchell, son of the said Elisha Mitchell, deceased, all & singular the goods & chattells, lands & Tenements, rights & credits, which were in & by said will given, bequeathed & devised to the sd Elisha, subject to the same condition with regard to debts, funeral charges & legacies, & in all other respects, as they were given, bequeathed & devised to the sd Elisha, & I do hereby further will, constitute & ordain my son Cushing Mitchell my sole Executor of this my last will & testament of which this codicil is a part (instead of the said Elisha deceased) as fully & effectually to all intents & purposes, as if he & no other person had been originally appointed Executor thereof, and I do hereby further order & direct ye sd Cushing to pay the sum of £33.6.8— (which he was directed to pay my Executor) to the said Asa Mitchell, any thing in sd will notwithstanding, and I do hereby ratify & confirm my sd will & all the gifts, devises, bequeaths, matters & things therein contained & not hereby altered or revoked.—In witness whereof, I, the said Edward Mitchell, the testator have hereunto set my hand & seal, this third day of March, in ye year of our Lord 1790—

        In Presence of us                                                                                                         Edward Mitchell                              (seal)

        the subscribers.—

                John Whitman junr.

                        Ephraim Cary junr

                        Libeus Washburn

 

Presented for probate on 15 Jan. 1802 by Cushing Mitchell, the Executor therein named, and proved by Ephraim Cary & John Whitman jr., two of the witnesses.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 38, p. 3-6, from FHL microfilm #0550720.

 

 

Will of Edward Mitchell of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1804) *

In the name of God, Amen, I Edward Mitchell of Bridgewater in the County of Plymouth, Gentleman, being of a sound disposing mind do make this my last Will & Testament, In the first place I recommend my soul into the hands of God who gave it and my body I recommend to be buried with decent christian burial at the discretion of my Executor, and with respect to my Goods & chattels & Real Estate I dispose of the same in manner following, viz.

  Imprimis, I give and bequeath unto my well beloved Wife Jane Mitchell the use and improvement of all my household furniture & bedding during her natural life, also a right to a seat in my Pew in the south meeting house during her natural life.

  Item, I give and bequeath to my four son Edward, Theodore, Ophir & Oreb my wearing apparel, to be equally divided between them

  Item, I give and bequeath to my three daughters, Jenny Hayward the wife of Edward Hayward, Lucia Hooper the wife of Joseph Hooper & Eunice Mitchell the wife of Daniel Mitchell my household furniture to be equally divided between them after the decease of my wife.

  Item, I give and bequeath to my three sons Edward, Ophir & Oreb, my Pew in the south meeting house reserved in the deed of my Real Estate to Theodore, excepting during the life of my wife a seat reserved to her.

  Item I give and bequeath to my son Theodore all my Estate not already disposed of, and I do hereby constitute my said son Theodore sole Executor of this my last Will & Testament, and I do hereby order my said Executor to pay all my just debts, funeral expenses and settlement of my estate, ratifying and confirming this to be my last Will & Testament and disallowing all wills by me heretofore made, In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal the twentieth day of March in the year of our Lord One thousand eight hundred & four

  Signed sealed published & declared by the said Edward Mitchell to be his last Will & Testament in presence of us,

  Beza Hayward                                                                                                                   Edward Mitchell                              (seal)

  Silvanus Hall

  Charles Tomson

 

Presented for probate on 18 May 1829, and proved by Beza Hayward, one of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Theodore Mitchell of Bridgewater, Gentleman, on 18 May 1829.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 67, p. 21-23, from FHL microfilm #0555259.

 

 

Will of Experience Mitchell of Bridgewater, Colony of New Plymouth (1689) *

These are to publish and declare to all whome it may Concerne that I Experience Mitchell now living in the Town of Bridgwater in the Colony of New Plimouth being through the Mercy of God of Sound judgment and memory do ordaine and make my last will and Testament in mañer following vizt Into the hands of God I Comend my spirit believingly Resigning up my soul into the Everlasting Armes of Gods mercy father Son and Holy Spirit—: my Body to be decently Interred at the discression of my Executor and other Christian Friends and for my outward Estate I doe will that after all my just debts and funerall Expences be paid my lands and other moveables be disposed of as followeth xxxx

Imprimis I Give to my Son Edward Mitchell after my decease all my Lands both upland and meadow lying in the Town of Duxbury at the place where I formerly Dwelt as appeareth by deed And if it shall please God So to order that my wife Mary Mitchell Shall Survive me I require my son Edward to take Care of her for her Comfortable Subsistance During her Life provided that she will live with him at Bridgwater, but if she Rather Incline to live at Duxbury I then order that half the Rent of that Land at Dubury shall be to my wife During her life And after my decease my Son Edward shall have the sole dispose of it as to the Letting of it out for the house I acknowledge it to be his; Also the Bed and boulster two pillows one pair of sheets and two Blankets which are at my son Edward’s and we make use of I Give them to him after our decease as for my Son John I have formerly Given him his portion of land, and my will is that he Rest Sattisfied therewith, which was fourscore acres of upland and four acres of meadow lying at Namatakeesit within the Township of Duxbury, this is the full of what I Intend him as to Lands onely there are Severall moveables in his hand at present which are mine of which one Cowe a short gun a small Iron kettle I Give unto my Grandson Experience And the Remainder I Give unto my Son John as for my Land Lying in the Town of Middlebury I Give it to my Daughters Mary Shaw Sarah Haward and Hannah Haward and to my Grandson Experience Mitchell the Son of my Son John to be Equally Divided between them. farther I Give to my Daughter Mary Shaw twenty shillings to hannah Haward forty shillings in Currant pay and if my Stock Stand I Give to my Grandson Thomas Mitchell one Cowe and to my Grand Daughter Mary Mitchell one Cow, I leave the dispose of my Grand daughter Mary Mitchel with my Son Edward and Joseph Bartlett  as for the Rest of my moveables and Chattels I bequeath them to my son Edward Mitchell whome I appoint and ordaine sole Executor of this my last will and Testament Revoaking all other wills and Testaments whatsoever Witness my hand and Seal this fifth of December 1689: [sic—see note below]

Signed and Sealed in the                                                                                                    Experience Mitchell                        (seal)

presence of

Thomas Hayward

John Haward

 

Thomas Hayward and Ensigne John Haward the within named witnesses appeared before the magistrates of the County of Plimouth at Plimouth September the 4th 1689 and made oath that they were present and saw Experience Mitchell deceased above named Sign Seal & Declare this Instrument as his last will & testament & that to the best of their understanding he was of disposing mind & memory when he so did.

                                                                                                                                                Attest Saml. Sprague Clerk

 

An Inventory of the Estate of Experience Mitchel of Bridgwater, taken by Ensigne John Haward and Thomas Hayward the 14 of May 1689                                                                                                                                                            lb    s     d

Imprimis In Books                                                                              00  14  00

In Iron vessels                                                                                      01  16  00

It; vessels of wood and Earth                                                            00  04  00

It, in pewter                                                                                          01  00  00

It, one Rundlett 2 Glass Bottles                                                        00  03  00

It, 2 Chests one Box with Severall tooles                                       02  00  00

It, in Bedding boulsters pillows and Covering                               06  08  00

It, in sheetes and other Linnen                                                          02  10  00

It in 2 Cows and one mare                                                                 04  10  00

It, in my Brother Johns hand

        One Cow one short gun & a small Iron kettle}                      02  12  00

                                                                                                           £ 21  17

 

Edward Mitchel made oath before the magistrates of the County of Plimouth September ye 4th 1689 that the above written is a true Inventory: of the Estate vizt Goods and Chattels of the above named Experience Mitchell deceased as far as he Knows and if more shall be discovered that he will Bring it to this Inventory:

Attest Saml Sprague Clerk

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 1, p. 44-45, and carefully compared with the George Ernest Bowman transcription published in The Mayflower Descendant, Vol. 4, p. 150-152. A note by Mr. Bowman about the date of the will says “Experience Mitchell’s inventory was taken 14 May, 1689, and his will was proved 4 September, 1689, therefore the date of the will, 5 December, 1689, as recorded by the clerk, Samuel Sprague, is doubtless an error. The will must have been made on 5 December in the year 1688, or possibly even earlier.”

 

 

Will of John Mitchell of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1828) *

  I John Mitchell of Bridgewater in the County of Plymouth Yeoman, do make and ordain this my last Will & Testament in manner and form following, viz.

  I give and bequeath unto my wife Susanna the use and occupation of one third part of all my real estate during her natural life, to be set off to her out of the estate herein given to my son Caleb –

  I give unto my eldest son John Holman Mitchell the right and privilege of living in my dwelling house during his pleasure, and also of sitting in my pew in the Meeting house.

  I give and devise unto my daughter Anna Washburn wife of Nahum Washburn, my undivided half of a lot of land lying near William Mitchell’s, containing about fourteen acres in the whole, and lying chiefly on the north side of the road, to have and to hold the same to her & her heirs & assigns forever –

 I give and devise unto my youngest son Elisha, my undivided half of the Hearsey place, so called, lying in East Bridgewater, including the land adjoining it, that I bought of Winslow Hooper, containing in the whole about Twenty five acres, To have and to hold the same to him his heirs and assigns forever.

 I also give him and his family the right and privilege of sitting in my pew in the meeting house –

 I give and devise unto my second son Caleb all the rest and residue of my estate of every name and nature where the same may be, to have and to hold the same to him his heirs and assigns forever. In this devise is included all the lands & buildings which I have already given him by deed, and also that part of my real estate which I heretofore had intended for my son John Holman, but after maturely considering his peculiar circumstances and situation, at his time, I have concluded to give the same as above to my son Caleb; it is nevertheless my earnest request and desire, that my son Caleb his heirs and assigns, shall from time to time and at all times, make such provision and arrangement for my son John Holman as in the opinion of my son Caleb, his heirs or assigns, will contribute most to his comfort and happiness, And I do further order my son Caleb out of the estate herein devised to him, and which he already holds by deeds, to pay all my debts and legacies, and to set off and provide my wife’s dower out of the same. And I do now nominate and appoint him the said Caleb to be sole executor of this my last Will and Testament, sealed with my seal and dated this eighth day of September in the year of our Lord, One thousand eight hundred and twenty eight.

 Signed sealed published and declared                                                                            John Mitchell                                    (seal)

by the said John Mitchell to be his last

Will & Testament in our hearing, who each

of us at his request have hereunto set our hands as Witnesses.

Nahum Mitchell

S. L. Mitchell

J. H. Mitchell

 

Presented for probate on 7 Apr. 1829, and proved by Nahum Mitchell, S L Mitchell, and J H Mitchell, the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Caleb Mitchell, of Bridgewater, on 7 Apr. 1829.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

Benjamin Pope and Thomas Alden of Bridgewater, and Azor Harris of East Bridgewater, all Freeholders, were appointed to set off one third part of all the Real Estate of John Mitchell, late of Bridgewater, Yeoman, to his widow Susannah Mitchell as her dower in said Real Estate on 7 Apr. 1829. The division was dated 17 Apr. 1829, and approved bon 7 July 1829.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 66, p. 498-500, from FHL microfilm #0555259, and Vol. 67, p. 372-374.

 

 

Will of Joseph Mitchell of Kingston, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1754) *

In the God Amen; I Joseph Mitchell of Kingston in the County of Plymouth Yeoman On this Seventeenth Day of October AD 1754 Being in a Weak and low State of helth, but of a sound and Disposing Mind and Memory Thanks be Given to God, and Calling to Mind my Frailty and Mortality and that it is appointed for all men Once to Dye Do make and Ordain this to be my last Will and Testament, and First of all I Do Give and Recommend my Soul into the hands of God that Gave it and my Body to the Earth to be Buried in adecent Christain manner at the Discretion of my Executors, and as to the Worldly Estate or Goods, God hath Blessed me with in this Life I Do Dispose thereof as Followeth

Imps.    I Give and Bequeath unto my loving Wife Hannah the Use & the Great lower Rhoom in my Dwelling House and Bed rhoom Adjoyning being the Easterly part of sd House and So much of the Celler as She shall find Necessary for her own use as also the liberty of keeping of a Cown of the Farm where I now Dwell & Fire Wood for own use brought and left for her at the Doore by whomsoever shall Improve said Farm and the Use of the Garden wher the Peach Trees Stand, and Six bushells of indian Corn and Two bushells of Rye Yearly and half Barrell pork & Fifty weight of Beef Yearly, and also the Bed in sd. Great room and Furniture belonging to it, all the abovenamed to be to her’s so long as She remains my Widdow, and also the Goods or Houshold Stuff She Brought with her to be Disposed off by her as she Shall think fitt—

Item,    I Give and Bequeath unto my Son Joseph One half of the Whole of my lands on the southerly side thereof with the Fencing thereon standing Runing from the Country Roade to the Head of the Lands To him his heirs and assigns forever he paying one half of the Mortgage on the whole Farm, and also the Bed and Bolster that I have Given to my Wife after she has Done with it if he Survives her      Item, I Give and Bequeath to my Son Benjamin the Other half of my sd. Lands on the Northerly side thereof with all the Fencing and Buildings thereon standing From the Country Roade up to the head he allowing my sd. Wife her Priviledge as abovementioned To him his heirs and Assigns forever he paying the Other half of the Mortgage and also all my other Debts that I am any Ways Indebted and also my newest Bed and Bolster And Stock in the Tanyard Togather with all my Live Stock on my sd. place and also the Tanners Tools, and apair of Andiorns in the House with the Slice and Tongs’ and my best Gun and Sword with one half of my Wereing apparell, and to my son Joseph the Other half of my Wereing apparell and half of my Houshold Tools and my other Gun and Sword—

Item     And all the Rest of my Personall Estate that I have not already Disposed of I Give to my Four Daughters Vizt. Hannah, Sarah, Ruth Phebe & Martha to be Equally Divided amongst them; Lastly I Doe Nominate John Cooper and my Son Benjamin Mitchell to be my Executors of this my last Will and Testament and upon the refusall of One of them the Other to be Sole Executor and Further if Either of my sd. Sons Shall Fail of paying their Respective Proportion of the Debts So as that there Should Arrise any Charge on said Estate, my said Executors or either of them may Sell So Much of said Land as Shall Satisfy & pay his proportion and any Charges that may Arise through is Failour as aforesaid, In Testimony whereof I the said Joseph Mitchell have hereunto Sett my hand and Seall the Day and Date Abovewritten

              Signed, Sealed Published & Declared

                To be my last Will and Testament                                                                  Joseph Mitchell                                (seal)

                                In Presence off

              John Sampson

              Samll. Foster

              Robt. Foster

 

Presented for probate on 3 Feb. 1755 by the Exer. Benjamin Mitchell (the Other Execr. herein named Vizt. the sd. John Cooper haveing Renounced the Executorship), and proved by John Samson and Samuell Foster, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Benjamin Mitchell.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 13, p. 373-375, from FHL microfilm #0551540.

 

 

Will of Leonard Mitchell of West Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1848) *

In the Name of GOD Amen; I Leonard Mitchell of West Bridgewater in the County of Plymouth, State of Massachusetts, Yeoman, Being weak in Body but of a sound & disposing mind for which blessing I return thanks to Almighty GOD, do this Twenty second day of June in the Year of our LORD One thousand Eight hundred & Forty eight, make publish & declare this Instrument to be my last Will & Testament.

Item.  I order that all my just debts and Funeral Charges be paid by my Executor herein after named & the several Legacies herein after bequeathed be discharges by him, in the manner hereafter described.

Item.  I give, demise & bequeath to my Grand children Oren Smith, Lewis A. Smith, & George A. Smith all my Lands in Easton, in the County of Bristol, equally except the right of Improvement of said Lands as I shall hereinafter describe.

Item, I give my Son in Law Elijah Smith & my Daughter Mary S. Smith an undivided right of the improvement of all my Lands in Easton in the County of Bristol during their natural lives with the priviledge of Cutting and Carrying away the Wood at their pleasure.

Lastly.  As to all the rest, residue and remainder of my Estate, Real, personal and mixed of whatever description or wherever situated (meaning all Lands &c not herein otherwise disposed of) I give, demise & bequeath the Same to my Daughter Mary S. Smith her Heirs & Assigns forever she paying all my just debts charges & legacies.  And I do hereby ordain, constitute & appoint my Son in Law Elijah Smith Executor of this my last Will & Testament hereby revoking, disallowing & annulling all other & former Wills and Establishing this only as my last Will & Testament, the day and Year first Written

                                                                                                                                                Leonard Mitchell                             (seal)

Signed, sealed, published, pronounced & declared by the Said Leonard Mitchell the Testator as and for his last Will & Testament in the presence of us who by his request in his presence and in the presence of each other subscribed our Names as Witnesses thereto at the same time.

                                                                                                                                                                                Caleb Howard

                                                                                                                                                                                Josiah Tisdale

                                                                                                                                                                                George Howard

 

Presented for probate on the last Tuesday of July 1856 by Elijah Smith, the Executor therein named, and proved by Caleb Howard and George Howard, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters Testamentary granted to Elijah Smith, the Executor.

 

Elijah Smith of West Bridgewater was granted Letters Testamentary on the Estate of Leonard Mitchell, late of West Bridgewater, yeoman, on 29 July 1856, with Caleb Howard and George Howard, of West Bridgewater, as sureties.

Caleb Howard, George Howard and William Winship, all of West Bridgewater, were appointed to appraise the estate of Leonard Mitchell, late of West Bridgewater, on 29 July 1856.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Leonard Mitchell, late of W. Bridgewater, totaled $1436.75, including his 25 acres of woodland lying in Easton valued at $525, and his land and dwelling house in West Bridgewater valued at $800, but was not dated. Elijah Smith, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on the last Tuesday of Feb. 1857.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 98, p. 310-312, from FHL microfilm #0555643, Vol. 2H, p. 519, and Vol. 99, p. 38.

 

 

Will of Molly Mitchell of Kingston, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1843) *

                                                                                                                                                Kingston  July 14th. 1843.

                Be it known to all whom it may concern, that I Molly Mitchell, of Kingston, in Plymouth County, single woman, do hereby make this my last Will and Testament, viz: –

                I give and devise to my sister Sarah Mitchell, all my estate and property, of every name and kind, and it is my last request, if any part of the same remain in her hands at her decease, that she give the same to such of my relatives, as are in her judgment most needy and prudent.

                And I hereby appoint David Beal, of Kingston Plymouth County, to be my Executor to this my last Will and Testament, allowing him the sum of fifteen dollars, for his care and personal services, in performing the trust hereby confirmed upon him.

                                                                                                                                                           her

                                                                                                                                                Molly  +  Mitchell                               (seal)

                                                                                                                                                          mark

                Signed, sealed, and published by Molly Mitchell as her will, in our presence, who subscribed the same as witnesses in her presence and in presence of each other.

                                                                                                                                                Horace L. Collamore

                                                                                                                                                Charles Brown

                                                                                                                                                Thomas Beal

 

Presented for probate on the second Monday of April 1846 by David Beal, the Executor therein named, and proved by Charles Brown and Thomas Beal, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters Testamentary were granted to David Beal, the Executor.

 

David Beal, of Kingston, was granted administration with Will annexed of the Estate of Molly Mitchell, late of Kingston, Singlewoman, on 13 Apr. 1846, with Joseph S. Beal and Charles Brown, both of Kingston, as sureties.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Molly Mitchell, late of Kingston, singlewoman, was appraised on 21 Apr. 1846 by Joseph S. Beal, Alexander Holmes, and Jas. N. Sever, and totaled $839.12, no real estate. David Beal, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on the second Monday of Aug. 1846.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 88, pp. 159-160, 374-375, from FHL microfilm #0555638, and Vol. 2H, p. 69.

 

 

Will of Nahum Mitchell, Esq., of East Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1853) *

        I Nahum Mitchell of East Bridgewater in the County of Plymouth do make and declare my last Will and Testament as follows.

        I give and bequeath unto my wife Nabby if she survive me, all the use, interest, income and rent of my estate, both real and personal, during her life.

        I order my Executor, as Trustee, to deliver semi-annually to my son Silvanus L. Mitchell thirty dollars during his life, and after him to pay over the principal, namely, one thousand dollars, to his two sons Edward and Morton, in equal moieties; and in asmuch as he, my son, is to have the house and land from his mother where he now lives during his life, and which after him is to go to his heirs, I consider this as much as I can do for him; and if my Executer decline or resign said trust or die before it be fully executed I authorize the Judge of Probate to appoint another, and even another if there be like occasion.

        I give to my daughter Mary O. Ames wife of David Ames Esq. of Springfield one thousand and eighty dollars; and to my daughter Elizabeth C. Hyde wife of Nathan D. Hyde one thousand dollars with all arrearages of interest due to each at my decease and until paid.

        I give to my son James Henry one thousand dollars, in lieu of the thousand dollars given by my grandson William Davis deceased to my wife, his grandmother, with a verbal intimation that it should after her death be paid over to his uncle James: not to be so paid over therefore till after her death.

        And whereas my two daughter aforesaid, namely Mary and Elizabeth, each retain their one undivided fifth part of a large tract of woodland lying north east of our meeting-house, being about fifty five acres or more, that was their grandfather Lazell’s, of which tract I own the other three fifths, I do now give and devise the whole of it and all my other woodland, and all the rest and residue of my estate whatever and wherever it may be to my three children aforesaid in fee, to wit, Mary, Elizabeth and James, to be equally divided and enjoyed between them, including the two fifths aforesaid with the rest, which will be to each five fifteenths of the whole, or one third.

        And all I have herein given to each of my daughters I give her to hold and enjoy by herself without the intervention of a Trustee and without the interference or control of her husband.

        And all the bequests and devises herein given, except that to my wife and the interest directed to be paid to my daughters, are not to be paid or reduced to possession till after the death of my wife.

        As to my grand daughters Abby M. Hall and Elizabeth B. Andrews, of Plymouth, daughters of my eldest child Harriet late wife of the Hon. Nathaniel M. Davis deceased, knowing how amply they have been provided for by their father, and considering the condition of my surviving children, I make no bequest to them, resting in the hope they will be content and attribute the omission to no want of affection.

        The foregoing legacies and devised are each made on the condition that no account or claim of any kind be made against my estate by any legatee or devisee mentioned herein, and I do on the same understanding, cancel and hereby discharge all book accounts, notes and other claims I may have against either of them; except mortgage notes.

        And I do now appoint my brother Cushing Mitchell Esq. to be sole of this my last Will and Testament made this 28th day of March 1853.

                                                                                                                                                Nahum Mitchell                                                (seal)

Declared by the Testator to be his last Will and Testament before us, who at his request have hereto set our hands as Witnesses.

H. O. A. Orr

Isaac Nutter

Isaac N. Nutter

 

Presented for probate on the second Monday of Aug. 1853 by Cushing Mitchell, the Executor therein named, and proved by H. O. A. Orr and Isaac Nutter, two of the witnesses whose names are subscribed thereto. Letters Testamentary were granted to Cushing Mitchell, the Executor therein named.

 

Cushing Mitchell, of East Bridgewater, Esquire, was appointed as Executor of the last Will and Testament of Nahum Mitchell, late of East Bridgewater, Esquire, on 8 Aug. 1853, with Ezekiel Whitman and Aaron Hobart Jr., both of East Bridgewater, as sureties.

Welcome Young, Samuel A. Orr, and Aaron Hobart Jr., all of East Bridgewater, were appointed to appraise the estate of Nahum Mitchell, late of East Bridgewater, on 8 Aug. 1853.

 

The Inventory of the estate of Hon. Nahum Mitchell, late of E. Bridgewater, dated 28 Nov. 1853, totaled $16,480.68. Cushing Mitchell, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on the first Monday of Dec. 1853.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 95, p. 355-357, 574-575, from FHL microfilm #0555642, and Vol. 2H, p. 379.

 

 

Will of Nathan Mitchell of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1789) *

In the Name of God Amen – on the twentieth day of February 1789 I Nathan Mitchell Esqr. of Bridgwater in the county of Plymouth, being under decays of body, but of a sound disposing mind and memory proceed to make this my Last will and Testament – In the first place I Give & recommend my soul into the hands of God who Gave it, trusting in the mercy of God through Christ for pardon Grace & Glory, and my body I commit to the earth to be decently buried at the discretion of my Executor hereafter named – In the next place I Give & dispose of my worldly Interest in the following manner vizt–my will is that all my just debts and funeral charges be paid in convenient time after my decease

Item – I Give and bequeath unto my well beloved wife Anne, one third part of my Dwelling House, in the easterly end, one third part of the Cellars under said House, a Right in the Kitchin fire place & oven, an Interest in the Barn, Corn House and well, also the improvement of a Cow & Horse a Right in a Pew in the meeting House, and in all other respects an Honorable support during her natural Life–also I Give her one third of my Houshold furniture, a Side Saddle and forty pounds in Good hard money Securities to be wholly at her disposal forever

Item – I Give and bequeath unto my eldest Daughter Deborah Leonard two notes of hand against Saml. Leonard junr. principal & Interest one of twelve pounds two shillings & 2d dated October 5th. 1786, the other Six pounds Dated August 29th. 1786 ~

Item – I Give and bequeath unto my Second Daughter Susanna Keith two notes of hand both principal & Interest against Caleb Keith, one of nineteen pounds, eleven shillings and three pence dated March 9th, 1786, the other Eighteen pounds, six shillings dated April 2d. 1787, also thirty eight pounds in silver money Securities

Item – I Give and bequeath unto my Sons Nathan, Cary & Daniel, to them, their Heirs and assigns forever, all my Real Estate, to be equally divided among them – also I Give them all my Personal Estate not before disposed of (after my Debts are paid) including the afore mentioned House, &c my wearing apparell, to be equally divided between them

Item – I do hereby nominate and appoint my Oldest Son Nathan Mitchell junr. Sole Executor of this my Last will and testament— In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand the day & year aforesaid –

Signed, Sealed, published and delivered

by the said Nathan Mitchell to be his

Last will and testament before us                                                                                     Nathan Mitchell                                (seal)

                Samuel Shaw

                Nathl. Washburn

                Nathan Hall

 

Presented for probate on 1 June 1789 by Nathan Mitchell, the Executor therein named, and proved by Samuel Shaw and Nathan Hall, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Nathan Mitchell, the before named Executor.

 

Eleazer Cary, yeoman, Eliphalet Cary Gentm. and Isaac Lazell junr. Gentm, all of Bridgwater, were appointed to appraise the estate of Nathan Mitchell, late of Bridgwater esqr., on 1 June 1789. The Inventory of the estate of Nathan Mitchell esqr., late of Bridgwater, was appraised on 31 July 1789, and totaled £1270.15.3½, including his real estate consisting of 187¼ acres together with the buildings, and one quarter of a saw mill valued at £968.11.6. Nathan Mitchell, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 3 Aug. 1789.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 31, pp. 16-17, 25-26, from FHL microfilm #0550716.

 

 

Will of Nathan Mitchell, Esq., of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1845) *

        In the name of God, Amen, I Nathan Mitchell of Bridgewater in the County of Plymouth and Commonwealth of Massachusetts, being of sound mind and memory, do hereby make ordain and establish this my last will and testament in manner and form as follows Viz.

First I give and bequeath a good honorable and Sufficient support to my well beloved wife Rachel Mitchell during her natural life, to be furnished out of my estate.

Second I give and bequeath unto Charlotte Keith wife of Mitchell Keith One hundred Dollars.

Third I give and bequeath unto my brother Daniel Mitchell and his children Philo Mitchell Daniel Mitchell Junr. Bela Mitchell and Eunice Dunbar, wife of William Dunbar and to Mitchell Keith twenty five dollars each

Fourth I give and bequeath unto my daughter Mary Allen and to her heirs and assigns, all the residue and remainder of my estate both real and personal or mixed, after the payment of all my just debts funeral charges and the above named legacies and the support of my wife during her natural life.

Lastly I hereby constitute and appoint Artemas Hale of Bridgewater my sole Executor to this my last will and testament hereby revoking and annulling all former wills by me made.

            In testimony whereof I the said Nathan Mitchell have hereunto set my hand and seal this second day of June in the year One thousand Eight hundred and forty five

                                                                                                                                                Nathan Mitchell                                (seal)

Signed sealed published and declared by the said Nathan Mitchell to be his last will and testament in the presence of us, who in his presence and at his request have subscribed the same as witnesses

        Artemas Hale

        Keith Bassett

        Cyrus Copeland

 

The Instrument here unto annexed purporting to be the last will and testament of Nathan Mitchell late of Bridgewater, Esquire, was presented for probate on the first Tuesday of July 1845 by Artemus Hale, the Executor therein named, and proved by Artemus Hale, Keith Bassett, and Cyrus Copeland, the witnesses whose names are subscribed thereto.

 

Artemas Hale, of Bridgewater, was granted Letters Testamentary on the Estate of Nathan Mitchell, late of Bridgewater, Esquire, on 1 July 1845, with Edward Mitchell and George W. Bassett, of Bridgewater, as sureties.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 87, p. 267-268, from FHL microfilm #0555638, and Vol. 2H, p. 42.

 

 

Will of Ruth Mitchell of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1857) *

                                Know all men by these presents, that I Ruth Mitchell, of Bridgewater, in the County of Plymouth, and State of Massachusetts, Widow, being of sound and disposing mind and memory, do make and publish this my last Will and Testament in manner and form as follows, namely,

                                1.  I give and bequeath to my daughter Polly Bryant fifty dollars, to be paid her in one year from my decease; Also my wearing apparel and one third part of my indoor moveables.

                                2.  I give and bequeath to Josiah A. and William W. sons of my son Willard Mitchell deceased, ten dollars each, to be paid in one year after my decease.

                                3.  I give and bequeath the remainder of my property, both real and personal, to my two sons Leonard Mitchell, and Oreb Mitchell, to be equally divided between them.

                                4.  I hereby appoint my Son Leonard Mitchell as Executor of this my last Will and Testament.

                                In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and seal, this fifteenth day of July, in the year of Our Lord one thousand eight hundred and fifty seven.

                                Signed, sealed, published and declared by the said Ruth Mitchell, as her last Will and

Testament, in presence of us, who in                                                                               Ruth Mitchell                                    (seal)

her presence & in the presence

of each other, and at her request,

have hereunto subscribed our

names as witnesses.                                                                                                             Thomas Cushman

                                                                                                                                                Benjamin Darling

                                                                                                                                                Nancy D. Pratt

 

Letters Administration with the Will annexed on the estate of Ruth Mitchell, late of Bridgewater, were granted to Oreb Mitchell, of Bridgewater, on 24 Aug. 1863, the executor therein named having declined, with Benjamin Darling and Thomas Cushman, of Bridgewater, as sureties.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 104, p. 399-400, from FHL microfilm #0555646, and Vol. 114, p. 159 (158).

 

 

Will of Seth Mitchell of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1807) *

In the Name of God amen I Seth Mitchell of Bridgwater in the County of Plymouth Yeoman, being weak in body, but of sound mind & memory do make and ordain this my last Will & Testament in Manner following, viz –

                In the first place I give & bequeath unto my well beloved Wife Lusanna Mitchell all my household Furniture & the Improvement of all my Real Estate untill my Children shall all be of lawful Age, or one & twenty years old, out of which & by means whereof, it is my will she should maintain, support, & bring them up to the Age of twenty one Years as aforesaid, respectively; and when the Youngest shall arrive to the Age of twenty one Years it is my will that what shall remain of my Real Estate shall be divided between my Children so as that the Daughters have only one half so much as the Sons & the Sons equal Shares among themselves; My Wife first having the Improvement of one third thereof, to be set off to her during her Life,—

                It is further my will & I do hereby give & bequeath unto my two daughters and the longest Liver of them, the right & privilege of living in & occupying the south west room in my present dwelling house, so long as they remain single—

                It is also my will that if any one or more of my Children die before they arrive to the Age of twenty one years, or unmarried or without lawful Issue & provided it be before the youngest shall arrive to the age of twenty one years as aforesaid that then such deceased Child’s or Children’s share, which they would have taken, had they lived, shall go to the surviving Children to be divided as aforesaid, when all who survive them shall be of full and lawful Age —

                I also give and bequeath unto my said Wife all my farming Utensils & all my live stock for the purpose of enabling her to improve the farm & support the Family as aforesaid—

                In Case my wife should marry again before my Children are of full age as aforesaid, it is to be understood & I declare it to be my will, that she then have to her own use only the use & occupation of one third only of my Real Estate as her Dower at common Law, and two hundred Dollars in Household Furniture, being what she brought with her in marriage, but that all the rest of the Estate both real & personal shall be holden & applied to maintain & bring up the Children as aforesaid, & after their full Age to be divided both real & personal as aforesaid to them & their Heirs forever.—

                And I do now constitute & appoint my said Wife Lusanna to be the Executrix of this my last Will & Testament & to collect all the debts due to me & to pay all my just debts—

                In Testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand & Seal this eighth day of December in the Year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred & seven —

signed sealed published & declared by the

said Seth Mitchell to be his last Will &

Testament in presence of us ~

                Solomon Washburn                                                                                            Seth Mitchell                                     (seal)

                William Mitchell

                Nahum Mitchell

 

Presented for probate on 11 March 1808 by Lusanna Mitchell, the Executrix therein named, and proved by Solomon Washburn, William Mitchell and Nahum Mitchell, the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Lusanna Mitchell, the before named Executrix.

No inventory or division of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 42, p. 260-261, from FHL microfilm #0550902.

 

 

Will of William Mitchell of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1851) *

  Be it known to all men and women that I William Mitchell of Bridgewater in the County of Plymouth & Commonwealth of Massachusetts, being of sound mind and memory (for one of my age) hereby make, ordain and establish this my last Will & Testament in manner as follows – viz:–

1st   I give to the First Unitarian Society in Bridgewater One Hundred Dollars for the support of the gospel.

2d    I give to God’s poor of Bridgewater one bed and fixtures.

3d    I give & bequeath to Cousin William Mitchell fifty dollars and library.

4th   I give to cousin Ambrose Williams or his heirs fifty dollars.

5th   I give to the widow Betsy C. Mitchell Twenty five dollars.

6th   I give to Allen Rogers one Secretary and Book Case.

7th   I give and bequeath to my sister Zilpha Keith, after paying the above legacies, all my personal estate of whatever name or nature whatever or her heirs.

Lastly.    I hereby constitute and appoint Mitchell Hooper of Bridgewater my sole Executor to this my last Will & Testament.

In testimony whereof I have hereunto subscribed my name & affixed my seal this October twenty fourth in the year one thousand eight hundred and fifty one

                                                                                                                                                William Mitchell                              (seal)

                Signed, sealed, published and declared by the said William Mitchell to be his last Will & Testament in the presence of us who in his presence, and at his request have subscribed the same as witnesses.

                                                                                                                                                Benjamin B. Hayward

                                                                                                                                                Elbridge Keith

                                                                                                                                                David R. Green

 

Presented for probate on the first Tuesday of May 1752 by Mitchell Hooper, the Executor therein named, and proved by Benjamin B. Hayward and Elbridge Keith, two of the witnesses whose names are subscribed thereto. Letters Testamentary were granted to Mitchell Hooper, the Executor therein named.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of William Mitchell, late of Bridgewater, was appraised on 16 Mar. 1852 by Artemas Hale, John J. Howard and Abram Washburn 2d, and totaled $2965.21, no real estate. Mitchell Hooper, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on the first Tuesday of May 1852.

 

Mitchell Hooper, of Bridgewater, was appointed as Executor of the last Will and Testament of William Mitchell, late of Bridgewater, on 4 May 1852, with Philo Leach and Edwin Keith, both of Bridgewater, as sureties.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 94, p. 169-171, from FHL microfilm #0555641, and Vol. 2H, p. 306.

 

 

Will of Hugh Montgomery of Middleborough, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1832) *

                Be it Remembered that I, Hugh Montgomery of Middleborough in the County of Plymouth & Commonwealth of Massachusetts, on the twenty first day of December in the year Eighteen hundred & thirty two, being of sound & disposing mind & memory, but advanced in life, make & publish my Will & Testament in manner following, to wit – In the first place I revoke & annul all former Wills & devises by me heretofore made –

                I give & bequeath to my daughter Mary Deane, Widow, ten dollars to be paid to her by my Executor herein after named, within one year after my decease.

                I give & bequeath to my daughter Harriet Strobridge, the wife of Thomas Strobridge, in addition to what I have already given her, one hundred & fifty dollars, to be paid to her in one year after my decease by my son William

                I give & bequeath to my daughter Julia Briggs, wife of Daniel Briggs, in addition to what I have already given her, one hundred & fifty dollars, to be paid to her in one year after my decease, by my son William.

                I give & bequeath to my daughter Lucy Shaw, wife of Newton Shaw, one hundred & fifty dollars, to be paid to her in one year after my decease, by my son William.

                I devise & bequeath to my daughter Nancy Montgomery, one Cow – all my household goods except such as shall be herein otherwise disposed of – fifty dollars in money, to be paid to her by my son William in one year after my decease: Furthermore it is my Will and I order & direct that my said daughter Nancy, so long as she shall continue unmarried, shall have the use & occupation of the Westerly front room in my dwelling house & the chamber over it: with a priviledge of the Well, Cellar, kitchen & oven: her Cow to be well kept upon my homestead in summer & winder: six bushels of Indian Corn – three bushels of Rye – five pounds of sheeps wool – fifty pounds of pork & fifty pounds of beef, with vegetables sufficient & suitable for her consumption, & fire wood sufficient for one fire, cut & drawed to the door, annually: with a priviledge of a seat in one of my Pews in the Meeting house: All of the above articles & provisions to be furnished & provided by my said Executor his heirs & assigns for my said daughter Nancy so long as she shall live unmarried.

                I give & bequeath to my son Hugh Montgomery fifty dollars, to be paid in one year after my decease, by my said Executor.

                I give and devise to my son William Montgomery twenty acres of land to be taken off the East end of my lot of land lying upon the opposite side of the road from my Dwelling house, with an old barn thereon, to him his heirs and assigns forever, he paying out the legacies to his Sisters as above directed.

                I give & bequeath to my son James Montgomery, one bed & bedding together with a suitable & comfortable support & maintainance in sickness & in health during his natural life – to be provided by my said Executor his heirs & assigns.

                I give and devise to my son John Montgomery my Dwelling house & buildings, and the lot containing about forty acres on which said house stands, subject to the provision which I have above made for my Daughter Nancy; on condition that he, my said son John his heirs and assigns shall well & truly provide for & maintain my said son James according to the provision above made for him. – I also devise to my said son John all the rest & residue of my real Estate, to him, his heirs & assigns forever: I also give & bequeath to my said son John my Clock & best Desk – and one bed & bedding out of my household goods – and all the rest & residue of my personal Estate, of whatever kind & description, beside what is above disposed of – he paying out the above legacies & fulfilling the conditions herein directed – and also discharging all Debts & charges which shall be legal demands against my Estate.

                And lastly I nominate & appoint my son John the sole Executor of this my last Will & Testament.

                                                                                                                                                Hugh Montgomery          (seal)

                Signed sealed published & declared by the above named Testator in presence of us the subscribers, as his last Will & Testament, who at his request, hereto subscribe our names in his presence and in the presence of each other.

                                William Sumner

                                Cyrus Elmes

                                George Williams Jr.

 

                To the Hon. Wilkes Wood Judge of Probate for the County of Plymouth – We, the Undersigned, heirs at Law of Hugh Montgomery, late of Middleborough in said County of Plymouth, deceased, having been notefied that the last Will & Testament of said Hugh Montgomery is about to be offered for Probate, do hereby give our consent to the Probate of the same.

                March 30th, 1835                                                                                                 Hugh Montgomery

                                                                                                                                                William Montgomery

                                                                                                                                                Lucy Shaw

                                                                                                                                                Newton Shaw

                                                                                                                                                Julia Briggs

                                                                                                                                                Daniel Briggs

                                                                                                                                                Harriet Strobridge

                                                                                                                                                Thomas Strobridge

                                                                                                                                                Mary Dean

                                                                                                                                                Nancy Montgomery.

 

Presented for probate on 26 May 1835, and proved by Cyrus Elmes and George Williams, two of the witnesses. Letters Testamentary were granted to John Montgomery, of Middleborough, Yeoman, on 26 May 1835.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 77, p. 233-235, from FHL microfilm #0555264.

 

 

Will of Cornelius Morey of Plymouth, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1803) *

In the Name of God Amen.— I Cornelius Morey of Plymouth in the County of Plymouth in New-England, yeoman, being of a sound & disposing mind, considering the uncertainty of life, do think proper to settle my worldly affairs, and to make my last will & testament, in manner following, vizt– First of all, I commend my soul, to the everlasting mercy of God, thro’ Christ, and my body to a decent burial, humbly hoping for a glorious resurrection, thro’ the merits of my redeemer, and as to my worldly estate, I dispose thereof, as follows. –

First.— I Give & bequeath to my beloved wife Jerusha, the improvement of all my estate, both real & personal, untill my oldest son Elijah comes of age, then for him to come into possession of what I shall give him hereafter. Also I give & bequeath to my wife, the improvement of my son Cornelius’s part of what I shall give him hereafter ‘till he comes of age – Also, I give & bequeath to my wife all the indoor moveables, to dispose of as she sees fit, together with one third of the improvement of my whole estate, while she remains my widow –

2d— I Give to my two oldest sons – vizt. Elijah & Cornelius, when they come of age, all my real & personal estate, except what I shall dispose of hereafter, wherever it may be found, and what I have dispose of before to my wife – I Give to my son Elijah, the piece of land I bought of Joseph Bates, seperate from Cornelius, he paying what I owe towards sd land the rest to be equal between them, they paying all my just debts, & to my daughters what I shall mention

3d— I Give to my two youngest sons vizt– William & Josiah about one hundred acres of land, more or less, said land I purchased of David Weston, & part of Samuel Cole

4ly Tis my will, that my two oldest sons Elijah & Cornelius when they come of age pay unto my two daughters Sarah & Jerusha Fifty Dollars to each, and tis my will, that my two oldest sons recieve all dues and demands I have against all persons whatsoever & it is my will that my wife Jerusha be the sole Executrix of this my last will & testament. – In Testimony and consideration of which, I the said Cornelius Morey do hereunto set my hand and seal, this twenty first day of March A Domini 1803. –

Signed, Sealed & declared                                                                                                 Cornelius Morey                              (seal)

to be his last will & testament

in presence of –

                Abner Bartlett

                James Harlow junr

                Anne Bartlett

 

Presented for probate on 17 June 1803 by Jerusha Morey, the Executrix therein named, and proved by Abner Bartlett Esqr. & James Harlow junr, two of the witnesses.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 38, p. 339-340, from FHL microfilm #0550720.

 

 

Will of Jonathan Morey of Plymouth, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1700) *

I Jonathan Morey of Plymouth in ye County of Plymouth in ye Province of ye Massachusetts Bay in New-England, Being at this Time thrô ye mercy of God in Competent health, and of Disposing minde and memory, and yet not knowing how soon, or when it shall Please God to take me out of this unsertain Life, am willing to set my house in order and to Dispose of these things which God hath Bestowed upon me in manor and form following – – – –

In the first place I comit my soul to God that gave it and my body to the Grave by a Desent buriall; Item: My will is that my oldest son do Injoy all that part of my Estate, which by a deed under my hand he hath already ye Promis of – – – –

Item I Give to my wife hannah Morey all her wearing Cloaths both Linin, & wollen also I Give to my wife two oxen & 3 cows & two beds that she brought with her & having with them, and also I Give my sd wife all the houshold stuff she brought with her Moreover I Give my wife one horse she to have her choice and the best Bridle & pannell & pillon & all furniture belonging to them – – – –

Furthermr it is my will that my wife may Live in the Improvment of my housing & Lands one whole year, after my Decease without Disturbans or molesstation  Item my will is that all the Remainder of my Estate Both Real and personall my Just Debts & funerall Charges being first paid by my Executrix here after Mentioned be Equally Divided into three parts for my wife and my two Children Eich one third part; That is to say my wife one third part – my son John Mory one third part & my Daughter Hannah Bumpus one third part of the Remainder of my Estate, Reserding[?] onely & it is my minde & will that my son Jonathan will pay in some Convenient time after my Decease sum of twenty & five pounds in money, Then he shall fully enjoy all ye Remainder of my Land and meadows which five & twenty pound shall be Equally Divided to those three (viz) my wife, my son John, my Daughter Hannah – as before mentioned – – – –

Finally I Do ordain appoint & Constitute my Dear wife Hannah to be my sole Executrix of this my will and Testament, In Testimony hereunto, I Do sett my hand & seal this 24 Day of february 1699/1700

In Presents of us witnesses                                                                                 Jonathan Morey                               (seal)

Joseph Bartlett

Joseph Holmes

Wm Bassett

 

June 16th 1708 Willm Basset and Joseph Holms within named appeared before Nathaniel Thomas Esqr Judge of Probate & granting Leters of administration within the County of Plymouth & made oath that they Did set to their hands to the within riton Instrument as witnesses and they doe verify beleive and suppose that they Did se Jonathan Morey Late of Plymouth now Deceased signe and seal the same and that they herd him Declare it to be his Last will and testament as attest                                 Nathaniel Thomas Register

 

The Inventory of all the Goods Chattils Rights and Credits of Capt Jonathan Mory late of Plymouth, dated 29 May 1708, was appraised by Stephen Skeffe and Willm Bassett, and sworn to by Hannah Mory, the Executrix, on 16 June 1708.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 2, p. 133-135, from FHL microfilm #0550748.

 

 

Will of Jonathan Morey of Plymouth, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1732) *

In ye Name of God Amen. I Jonathan Morey of Plymouth in the County of Plymouth and Province of the Massachusetts Bay in New England Yeoman being under frequent Indispositions of Body, but through ye Goodness of God of Disposing Mind & Memory do make & ordain this to be my last Will & Testament Hereby annulling & Making void all My other & former Will or Wills Testament or Testaments by me heretofore made, Ratifying & Confirming this & no other to be my last Will & Testament—

Principally & first of all I Recommend my Soul to God in Jesus Christ, And my Body to a decent Christian Burial at ye Discretion of my Executrix hereafter Named—

And as for the temporal Estate Wherewith it hath pleased God to be Bless me in this Life, I Give Demise & Dispose thereof in the following Manner and Form—

Imprimis My Will is that all my just Debts & Funeral Charges be first pd out of my Estate

Itm I Give & Bequeath to my Eldest Son Benjamin his Heirs & assigns forever, All that my Lot of Land laying near ye Head of Woncom quo so called in ye Township of Plymouth, being the tenth Lot in ye Second Division of ye Proprietors of Plymo & Plimton & do hereby Confirm to him my sd Son Benjamin, the Real Estate I have already Given unto him my Deeds—

Itm I Give & Bequeath unto my Son Jonathan his Heirs & assigns forever, One Tract of Land lying on the Southerly Side of his Dwelling House Adjoyning to his Own Land, Bounded on ye Westerly Side by ye Kings Road Containing four acres be it more or less, he paying ten pounds to my Executrix hereafter Named—

I also Give unto my sd Son Jonathan his Heirs & assigns forever a Gore or Parcell of Land lying on ye Westerly Side of ye Kings Road opposite with his House Bounded by a foot Path that leads to Hedge’s Pond, along by ye Place where Tom Cookes House formerly stood and to Extend Westerly as the Path now runs until it comes to his own Land, and then Easterly by his own Land till it comes to ye Kings Road being about four acres be it more or less—Also I Give unto my sd Son Jonathan One quarter Part of all my Right in ye Indian Commons to him his Heirs and assigns forever, Hereby also Confirming to him what Estate I have heretofore given him by Deeds.

Itm I Give unto my Daughter Meriah Swift Twenty Shillings to be paid to her by my Executrix after my Decease I having heretofore Given her twenty Pounds

Itm I Give unto my Daughter Thankful Swift Twenty Shillings to be paid her by my Executrix after my Decease I having heretofore given her twenty Pounds—

Item I Give unto my Daughter Reliance Twenty Pounds to be paid out of my Estate by my Executrix  —  Itm I Give & Bequeath unto my loving wife Hannah Morey & to my Son Joseph & to my Daughter Reliance The Whole of my Moveable Estate after my Death to be equally Divided by & amongst them—

Itm I do Will & Bequeath to the two Children of Maria Trowbridge Deceased viz: Mary & Maria ye Sum of ten Pounds to be paid them by my Executrix after my Decease, I having heretofore Paid to their Father John Trowbridge thirty Seven Pounds in their Mothers Life time—

Itm I Will & Bequeath unto my Son Joseph Morey & to ye Heirs of his Body lawfully begotten & to their Heirs & assigns forever, All my Real Estate that is to Say All my Housing, Lands, Meadows, & Cedar Swamps (after my Decease & ye Decease of my Wife, Hannah) that I now have in ye Township of Plymouth Excepting what I have herein before Bequeathed, He the sd Joseph Providing a Comfortable Support for me & my Wife During our & Each of our Natural Lives If We stand in Need of his assistance But if my sd Son Joseph should Decease without Issue That is to Say having no Heirs lawfully begotten as aforesd Then it is my Will that all the Estate that I have hereby Bequeathed to him my sd Son shall be and belong to all my other Children to be equally Divided amongst them—

Itm I Give & Bequeath to my Three Sons Benjamin Jonathan & Joseph all my Right Title & Interest or Estate I have in ye Township of Providence in ye Colony of Rhode Island in New-England deriving to Me in the Right of my Grand father & Father Deceased equally to be Divided Amongst my sd three Sons—And I do Constitute & appoint my loving Wife Hannah Morey to be Sole Executrix to this my last Will & Testament Desiring my Son in Law Seth Swift to assist her in ye Executorship—In Witness whereof I have hereunto Set my hand & Seal the first Day of Septembr Annoq. Domini, One thousand Seven hundred & thirty two—

Signd Seald & Deliverd                                                                                                        Jonathan Morey               (seal)

& Declared to be his last

Will and Testament

In Presence of

Nathl. Shurtleff

Saml. Bartlett

Francis Adams Jur.

Plymth. April.26.1733. Samuel Bartlett & Nathanl Shurtleff Appeared & Made Oath that they Saw Jonathn Morey the Testator Sign & Seal & heard him Declare ye aforegoing Instrumt to be his last Will & Testament; And that they at ye Same time in ye Presence of ye Testator Set to their Hands as Witnesses, And yt according to be ye best of yr Judgment & Observation he was then of Sound & Disposing Mind & Memory Before Isaac Winslow Judge of Probate

 

The inventory of the Estate of Jonathan Morey of Plymouth, dated 25 May 1733, was appraised by Stephen Churchell, John Bartlett, & Ebenezer Wing.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 6, pp. 347-348, 390-391, from FHL microfilm #0550512.

 

 

Will of Edward Morse of Rochester, Plymouth County, Massachusetts Bay (1783) *

In the Name of God Amen – This seventeenth day of June, A D, 1783–I, Edward Morse of Rochester in the County of Plymouth in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts yeoman, being of disposing mind and memory, do make and ordain this my Last Will and testament, wherein I Give, devise, and dispose of my worldly Goods or Estate in manner and form following. ~

Imprimis – I Give and bequeath to my Son Joshua Morse the Sum of ten shillings to be paid by my Executor hereafter named, within one year after my decease, with which he hath already had to be his portion in my Estate. –

Item–I Give to my Grandson Melatiah Morse, and to his heirs or assigns a Certain tract or parcel of Lands & fresh meadows Lying on the Easterly branch of Sippican, bounded on the Northerly part by the Lands & meadows his father Joshua Morse holds by deed from me and thence proceeding down Stream said River to a Certain Rock near the westerly bank of said River & in a narrow place of the meadow about three Rods below where the River turns Southerly, and from said Rock on an East & west Line untill it Comes to the Easterly & westerly Sides of my Lands & meadows

Item– I Give to my Son Edward Morse and to his heirs & assigns, all the Lands I own between the Roads that parts the towns of Rochester and Wareham, and the Lands I heretofore Gave a deed of to my Son Benjamin Morse, and also all the upland I own on horse neck so Called not otherwise disposed of in this my will, also all the meadow & meadowish Ground on the north westerly Side the River from Edwards Bridge so Called, down Stream to a Spring brook that Runs out of the Bear Swamp so Called.~

Item – I Give to my Son Benjamin Morse the Sum of Ten Shillings to be paid by my Executor hereafter named, which with what he hath already had, to be his portion of my Estate.~

Item – I Give to my Son John Morse & to his heirs or assigns, the Land where his dwelling house now stands, bounded on the south-westerly Side by Moses Bates’s Land & on the north-Easterly Side by the following Line, beginning at a Stake standing by the Road about ten Rods from my dwelling house, thence Ranging north-westerly to a Large white Oak tree standing in the field between my house & my sd son John’s house, and thence to keep the same Range to a Large pine tree marked & So on the same Course Continued to the mill pond, and bounded on each end by the Road & mill pond – and also all the Land I own on the southerly side of the Country Road & Eastward of Merry’s pond–and also all the fresh meadow on the East. branch of Sippican River from the meadow I have herein Give to my Grandson Melatiah Morse down stream to the meadow sd. John holds by deed, and also a Strip of upland four Rods wide, on the westerly Side sd. meadow the whole Length of his meadow, both hereby Given & what he holds by deed.~

Item – I Give to my Son Ebenezer Morse and to his heirs or assigns the following part of my homestead Lands, bounded South westerly by that herein Given to my Son John, South-Easterly by the Country Road as now trod, north-easterly by Land I heretofore Gave a deed of to my Son Benjamin, north-westerly by the East branch of Sippican River from Edwards’s Bridge down Stream to the mouth a Spring brook Running out of the Bear Swamp, and thence including the meadow on the westerly Side said River untill it Comes to the foot of the Lotted meadow – and also all the meadow on said East branch, I bought of William Blackmore as described in sd Blackmores deed to me

Item– my will is that all Houshold furniture & wearing Apparell be equally divided between my five Sons aforesaid. ~

Lastly– all my Stock of Cattle, Sheep, all my husbandry tools and out door moveables of all kinds debts due to me together with all the Remainder of my Estate of all kinds whether Real or personal not particularily disposed in this my will, I Give & bequeath to my two Sons John & Ebenezer to be equally divided between them, they paying all my just debts funeral Charges & the Legacies above mentioned and Compleatly fulfilling this my will – and I do hereby Constitute and appoint my two Sons John & Ebenezer joint Executors to this my Last will & testament & I do hereby Revoke and make void all Other & former wills & testament by me made Ratifying & Confirming this and no Other to be my Last will & testament In Witness whereof I have hereunto Set my hand & Seal the day & year above written. ~

Signed, Sealed & declared by the said Edwd.

Morse to be his Last will & testament in

presence of us                                                                                                                      Edward Morse                  (seal)

                                Zackeus Handy junr.

                                Church Mendall

                                Jos. Haskell junr

 

Presented for probate on 8 Sept. 1784 by John and Ebenezer Morse, the Executors therein named, and proved by Zackeus Handy junr. and Jos. Haskall junr., two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to John & Ebenezer Morse, the before named Executors.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 29, p. 202-203, from FHL microfilm #0550715.

 

 

Will of Abigail Morton of Middleborough, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1842) *

   Be it remembered, that on this twenty second day of October in the year eighteen hundred and forty two, I Abigail Morton of Middleborough in the County of Plymouth, Massachusetts widow, being advanced in years but of sound and disposing mind and memory make and publish my Will and Testament in manner following to wit:

                I give and bequeath to my daughter Betsey Haskell the sum of Fifty Dollars to be paid to her or her heirs out of my Estate with one year after my decease. –

                I give and devise to my daughter Abigail Pickens, to her heirs and assigns all the residue of my Estate real and personal of whatever kind and wherever found, she paying my just debts and such funeral charges as may be incurred for my burial, all which if she survives me are to be at her discretion; otherwise to be at the discretion of my heirs. –

                In testimony whereof, I hereto set my hand and seal the day and year above written. –

Signed sealed published and delivered by                                                                      Abigail Morton                 (seal)

the above named Abigail Morton as and for

her last Will and Testament, in our presence

who at her request hereto subscribe our names

in her presence and in presence of each other

                                                Wm H Morse

                                                Emily L Wood

                                                Mercy T. Wood

 

Presented for probate on the first Tuesday of May, 1850 by Abigail Pickens, a Devisee therein named, and proved by William H. Wood, one of the witnesses.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 92, p. 161-162, from FHL microfilm #0555640.

 

 

Will of Catharine Morton of Middleborough, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1849) *

In the name of God Amen. I Catharine Morton of Middleborough in the County of Plymouth, widow woman, do make and publish this my last Will and Testament in manner and form as follows. I give and bequeath to my grand Children Horatio N. Wilbar, Philena A. Wilbar, Arad Wilbar Sidner B. Wilbar, one Dollar to be equally divided between them – I give and bequeath to my daughter Catharine R. Morton the remainder of all my Estate both real and personal to her the said Catharine R. her heirs and assigns forever. And I do appoint Thomas Washburn sole Executor to this my last Will and Testament. In witness whereof I hereunto set my hand and seal this Nineteenth day of May Eighteen hundred and forty Nine

Signed, sealed, Published and delivered                                                                         Catharine Morton                           (seal)

by the said Catharine Morton to be her last

Will and Testament in the presence of us who have subscribed our names as

Witnesses in the presence of the Testator. –                                                                  Charity Washburn

                                                                                                                                                William M Washburn

                                                                                                                                                Jonathan T. Washburn

 

Presented for probate on the first Tuesday of April 1850 by Thomas Washburn, the Executor, and proved by William M Washburn and Jonathan T. Washburn, two of the witnesses.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 92, p. 115, from FHL microfilm #0555640.

 

 

Will of Eleanor Morton of Plymouth, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1835) *

                In the name of God, Amen, I, Eleanor Morton of Plymouth in the County of Plymouth, Singlewoman, do hereby make, publish and declare this Instrument to be my last Will and Testament, viz, —

                                                                                I give and bequeath to my Niece, Eliza Morton, the sum of Forty dollars, – daughter of George Morton. — I give and bequeath to my niece Sally Morton the sum of Forty dollars – daughter of my brother George Morton.

                                I give and bequeath to my Niece Eunice Morton the sum of Forty dollars – daughter of my brother Edward Morton

                                I give and bequeath to my Sister in Law Betsey Morton, the wife of my brother George Morton, the sum of twenty dollars. –

                                I give and bequeath to my Sister in Law Priscilla Morton, the wife of my brother Edward Morton the sum of Twenty dollars. – I give and bequeath to my friend Mrs Elizabeth Sampson the sum of Twenty dollars.

                                I give and bequeath to Rebecca Bartlett the daughter of Capt Isaac Bartlett the sum of Twenty dollars.

                                I give, devise and bequeath all the rest, residue and remainder of my Estate, both Real and Personal, wearing apparrel included, to my niece Sarah Morton Holmes, and to her heirs and assigns.

                                I nominate & appoint my friend Josiah Robbins to be Executor of this my last Will & Testament.  In testimony whereof, I, the said Eleanor Morton, have hereunto set my hand & seal this fourth day of February, in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred & thirty five.

                                                                                                                                                Eleanor Morton                                (seal)

Signed, sealed, published and declared by the above named Eleanor Morton, to be her Last Will and Testament in the presence of us, who at her request in her presence and in the presence of each other, have hereunto subscribed our names as witnesses to the same.

                Josiah Robbins

                Rebecca Robbins

                Susannah Johnson

 

Probated on 18 May 1835, and proved by Josiah Robbins, Rebecca Robbins, and Susannah Johnson, the witnesses. Letters Testamentary were granted to Josiah Robbins, of Plymouth, Esquire, on 18 May 1835.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 77, p. 193-194, from FHL microfilm #0555264.

 

 

Will of Ephraim Morton of Plymouth, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1730) *

In the Name of God Amen I Ephraim Morton of ye Town of Plymo, in the County of Plymo. in New-England Considering the Uncertainty of Life & ye Certainty of Death & being thro’ GOD’s Goodness of a sound & Disposing mind & memory, Do make & ordayne this my Last will & Testament as following. —  In the first place I bequeath my immortal Soul to GOD that gave it Relying upon his Mercy & ye merits of Jesus Christ for eternal salvation And my frail Body to ye Dust to be decently Buryed according to ye Discretion of my Executor herein below mentioned & appointed Hoping to Receive it again at ye General Resurrection—And as to what Temporal Estate it hath pleased ye Almighty in his Goodness to bless me withall I Dispose of the same by this my Last will & Testament my Just Debts & Funeral Charges being first payd as followeth

Imprimis I Give & Bequeath to my Son John morton & to his Heirs forever all my wearing apparel & the Chest wherein they are Commonly put.—

Item. I Give & Bequeath to Susanna Morton widow of my son Ephraim Morton Decd ye Sum of three pounds to her & her Heirs forever.—

Item. I Give & Bequeath to my Grandson Nathaniel Warren ye Sum of three pounds to him & his Heirs forever.

Item. I Give & Bequeath to my Grandson Benjn. Warren ye sum of three pounds To him & his Heirs forever.

Item. I Give & Bequeath to my Son Ebenezer Morton ye sum of five Shillings to him & his Heirs forever.

Item. I Give & Bequeath to my Son Joseph Morton (after ye above said Legacyes are first paid) To him his Heirs & assignes forever All ye Remaynder of my Real & Personal Estate wheresoever & of what nature or kind soever.—  Lastly I Do Constitute & appoynt my sd Son Joseph Morton Sole Executor of this my Last will & Testament Hereby Revoking & Disanulling all former wills by me heretofore made Ratifying, Confirming & allowing this & no other as my last will & Testament and for witness hereof I have hereunto Set my hand & Seal this third Day of august Anno Domini One thousand Seven hundred & thirty.1730

Signed, Sealed Published & Declared

to be his last will & Testament                                                                                         Ephraim Morton                              (seal)

In presence of us.— —

Nicholas Drew

Eleazer Donham Junr.

John Dyer

 

Plymo. March 10.1731. Nichs Drew, Eleazer Donham Junr. & Capt. John Dyer made oath that they saw Ephraim Morton (Decd) Sign, Seal & heard him Declare ye above written Instrument to be his last will & Testamt. and that yy Set to their hands as witnesses at ye Same time in ye presence of ye sd Testator and that according to ye Best of their observaton he was then of sound & Disposing mind & memory

                                                                                                                                ~ Before Isaac Winslow Judge of Probate

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 6, p. 141, from FHL microfilm #0550512, the year actually 1731/32.

 

 

Will of Freeman Morton of Plymouth, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1860) *

                                Be it known that I, Freeman Morton of Plymouth, in the County of Plymouth, being advanced in years, but of sound mind, do make, publish and declare this Instrument to be my last Will and Testament, in manner following, to wit:

                                First. I give, devise & bequeath to my son Alvan G. Morton his heirs, executors and Administrators the sum of seven hundred & fifty dollars in trust to & for the uses & purposes following, to wit: to pay to each of my grandchildren Leonice Morton, Rebecca H. Morton, & Jane Morton the sum of two hundred & fifty dollars at such time and in such sums as to my said son shall seem to be best for them having it entirely to the discretion of my said son as to the times of payment.

                                I exempt said Trustee from giving bond.

                                I give, devise & bequeath to my Son, Alvan G. Morton all the rest residue & remainder of all the estate which I shall have at my decease to have and to hold to him his heirs & assigns forever, and I do appoint my said Son sole Executor of this Will.

                                In witness whereof I have hereto set my hand and seal, this twenty second day of May in the year one thousand eight hundred and sixty.

                                                                                                                                                Freeman Morton                             (seal)

                                Signed, sealed, published and declared by the above named Freeman Morton to be his last Will and Testament in the presence of us who at his request & in his presence & in presence of each other have hereto subscribed our names as witnesses.

                                                                                                                                                Jacob H. Loud

                                                                                                                                                Nathl Harlow

                                                                                                                                                Grace Holmes

 

Presented for probate on the third Monday of May 1861 by Alvan G. Morton, the Executor, and proved by Jacob H. Loud and Nathl Harlow, two of the witnesses, Letters Testamentary were granted to Alvan G. Morton, the Executor.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 103, p. 201, from FHL microfilm #0555646.

 

 

Will and Codicil of Deacon George Morton of Plymouth, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1723) *

In ye name of God Amen I George Morton of Plymouth in ye County of Plymouth in ye Province of ye Massachusetts Bay In New: England yeoman, Being aged & infirm but yet of Sound & disposing mind & memory, Looking upon it my duty to Settle my affairs before I dye, do make & constitute this my Last Will & Testament, in manner & form following. Imprimis. I Resign my Soul into ye mercifull Hands of almighty God, and my Body to ye Earth to be decently interred and as for my Worldly Estate (after my Just Debts & funeral Expences are Paid & discharged) I Have already given unto my Eldest Son Manasseh Morton Land at Namaskett at middleborô. To my Son Ephraim morton deceased I have already given a Right & Interest in Marsh & Sledge ground at Sacaquash & to His Children ye Land where they live in Plymouth aforesd. To my Son Timothy Morton I have already given a Right at Sacaquash & at Clarks: Island. Item as to my Son George Morton I have already given Him fourty acres of Land; and I do in this my Last Will & Testament further give to Him my sd Son George & His Heirs & assignes a Hundred acre Lott of Land at middleborô in ye County aforesd and one Share of Cedar Swamp that I bought of Henry Rickard being ye fifteenth Lott, & fourty five & fourty five acres of Land with all my Remaining Right of Land in middleborô aforesd & a Quarter of my meadow at Sacaquash aforesd. sd Cedar Swamp is at South Meadows in Plympton. Item: To my Son Thomas morton & His Heirs and assignes I give & Bequeath three Quarters of my meadow att Sacaquash aforesd as also all that my Homestead & Housing with ye appurtenances where I now live in Plymouth aforesd. He my Sd Son Thomas paying ye Legacys Hereafter mentioned. Item, I give & Bequeath to my daughter Hannah Dyer ye full Sum of fifteen Pounds money. Item: I give & Bequeath to my Daughter Joanna Holmes ye full Sum of fifteen Pounds money. Item: I give & Bequeath to my Daughter Rebekah Drew ye full Sum of fifteen Pounds money. Item: I give & Bequeath to my Daughter Elizabeth morton ye full Sum of fourty Pounds. Item: I give to my sd Son Thomas His Heirs & assignes my other Share of Cedar Swamp at South meadows at Plympton aforesd in ye County of Plymouth; and my Will is that my sd Son find & Provide for His mother Suitable & Sufficient wood for Her fire by bringing of it Home & Cutting it fit for Her use, during Her natural Life; my Land at Clarkes: Island I leave & Bequeath to ye use Profit & Benefit of my wife Joanna morton & my sd daughter Elisabeth (who is in a Languishing Condition) to be Sold and disposed fully & Legally by my Executors (hereafter mentioned) or Either of them, whome I hereby Impower to do it: in case ye Circumstances of my sd Wife or Daughter Require it; & the Produce thereof to be for ye use of my sd Wife & Daughter; and my sd Wife & Daughter to Have a Room in ye dwelling House where I now dwell So long as they or Either of them desire it for themselves; and He ye Sd Thomas to make further Sufficient Provision for His mother in case what I have here done does not fully answar ye End for Her Life. The whole of my moveable Estate I Bequeath to my sd Wife for Her use & Benefit; and what Remains thereof after Her decease, my Will is Should be Equally divided among my sd children (Except Timothy) The sd Grandchildren to Have as much as one of their uncles & aunts among whome ye division is made; and my Will is yt all ye Rest and Residue of my Estate Whatsoever & whereforever, not Herein or heretofore disposed of, be Equally divided among my Sd Children Except Timothy who Has already had his full (if not more than His Proportion) To Whome not withstanding as a token of my Love I give ye Sum of five Shillings before Division; The Sd Children of Sd Ruth Barnaby to Have another Part Equal with any one of my Children in sd Residuery Bequest, and Finally I doe hereby make constitute Capt. Jno Dyer of Plymouth aforesd & my Sd Son George Morton Executors of this my Last Will & Testament Hereby Revoking & disannulling all former Wills by me made. In Wittness whereof I have hereunto Sett my Hand & Seal: and in Token yt it is agreeable to ye mind & Will of my Sd Wife Joanna She hath hereunto Sett Her Hand and Seal this twentieth Day of February In ye ninth year of His Majesties Reign annoque Domini one thousand Seven Hundred & twenty two 1722/3

Signed Sealed & ye Within written                                                                                   Deacon George Morton

declared to be His Last Will & Testament                                                                                           z

& agreeable to Her:                                                                                                                             His mark

In Presence of                                                                                                                               Joanna Morton

Thomas Morton                                                                                                                                        S

John Churchell Junr                                                                                                                            Her mark

Josiah Cotton

 

Plymouth February 15th 1726/7 Memorandum yt The Legacy within mentioned to Elisabeth Morton was altered & made fourty Pounds, & to ye Rest of ye Daughters fifteen & my Son George’s Right a Quarter, & my Son Thomas’s Right three Quarters at Sacaquash by ye Testator in Presence of ye Sd Wittnesses, and as addition or codicil to ye Sd Will Know all men by these Presents yt I George Morton aforesd do hereby give & Bequeath to my Son Manasseh ye Sum of five Shillings; & to ye Children of my Son Ephraim Morton ye Sum of Five Pounds to be pd by my sd Son Thomas as aforesd; and to ye Sd Thomas morton my Son I further give & Bequeath a twenty acre Lott of Land at ye Head of my Homestead; To Him His Heirs & assignes forEver; and I doe hereby Revoke & disanull yt Part of ye afore written Will which Concerns ye Legacy of Thirty Pounds to ye Children of my Daughter Barnaby deceasd and I do by these Presents give & Bequeath to ye Children of my Sd Daughter ye Sum of fifteen Pounds & no more in money to be pd by my sd Son Thomas within three years after my decease; and Whereas I have Since ye making of ye within written Will Sold all my Right in Clarkes Island, I do hereby Rovoke & disanull yt Part of Sd Will which Refers to ye Division of ye moveable Estate among all my Children (Except Timothy) and my Will now is, yt what Remains of my Moveable Estate after my Wifes decease Shall be to my daughters & their Heirs according as my Wife Shall See Cause to order & dispose of in Equal Parts in case my sd Wife does not See Cause to make disposal thereof for Her own use or to any of Her daughters; and further my Will is yt ye afore written Testament Shall Stand & Remain in full force as it now is; and yt this Codicill Shall be esteemed and Recd. as Part of my Will: In Testimony & confirmation Whereof I have hereunto Sett my Hand & Seal ye Sd 15th day of Feby. 1726/7

Signed Sealed & Declared to be                                                                                       George Morton

Part of His Will                                                                                                                                 t

        In Presence of                                                                                                                  His mark

Thomas Morton

John Churchel

Josiah Cotton

 

Probated on 22 Sept. 1727, and proved by Thomas Morton, John Churchell, and Josiah Cotton.

Letters of administration given to Capt. John Dyer and George Morton on 25 Sept. 1727.

 

The inventory of the estate of Deacon George Morton of Plimouth, dated 19 Oct. 1727, was taken by Benja. Warren, John Foster, and Francis Adams, not totaled, included his homestead & house valued at £465, 20 acres of wood land valued at £135, his meadow at Sacaquash valued at £110, 45 acres of land at half house Plain valued at £45, his Cedar Swamp at South Meadow valued at £22, and other lands.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 5, pp. 331-334, 630-631, from FHL microfilm #0550511.

 

 

Will of George Morton of Dartmouth, Bristol County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1843) *

        Be it remembered that I George Morton of Dartmouth in the County of Bristol and State of Massachusetts being blessed with a sound mind and memory, this seventeenth day of the tenth month in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and forty three to now publish this my last Will & Testament in manner following, (Viz)

  I do hereby in this my last Will & Testament give and bequeath unto my beloved wife Mary Morton five hundred dollars in money and all my household furniture, to her disposal

  And having heretofore given to my Daughter Sarah B. Sisson & her heirs, what I intended & as shares in my Estate.

  I give and bequeath to my Daughters Anna E. Almy and Mary E. Snow, all the rest and residue of my Estate wheresoever found and of whatsoever description or nature, both real & personal to their use and disposal to be equally divided between them

        And finally I do hereby appoint My Son in law George Almy my Executor of this my last Will and Testament in confirmation whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal the day and year above written

In presence of us who at his

request subscribe as witnesses                                                                                           George Morton                                (seal)

William Tucker

Sarah Tucker

Adririan Davis

 

Presented for probate on 7 May 1844 by George Almy, the Executor, and proved by William Tucker, Sarah Tucker and Adrian Davis, all of Dartmouth, on 4 June 1844. Letters of Administration granted to George Almy of Dartmouth, on 4 June 1844, with William Tucker, of Dartmouth, and Adrian Davis, of Westport, as sureties.

Isaac R Gifford, William Potter and William Tucker, all of Dartmouth, were appointed to appraise the estate of George Morton, late of Dartmouth, on 8 Mar. 1844. The inventory was dated 14 Mar. 1844, and totaled $2043.52.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Bristol County Probate File “George Morton, Dartmouth, 1844,” from FHL microfilm #0577911.

 

 

Will of Jacob T. Morton of Plymouth, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1871) *

Know all men by these Presents that I Jacob T. Morton of Plymouth, County of Plymouth, being of sound mind and memory do make declare and publish this my last will and testament in manner following – after my debts are paid

First. I give and bequeath to my son Lazarus S. Morton my silver watch and chain.

Second. I give and bequeath to my son Jacob T. Morton Jr. one of my feather beds with bolster & pillows.

Third. I give and bequeath to my daughter Joan B. Donley wife of John Donley all the rest and residue of my Estate both real and personal of which I shall die seized and possessed, to them and their heirs and assigns forever.

Fourth. I do nominate and appoint Leander Lovell to be the Executor of this my last will and testament.

In testimony whereof I have subscribed my name, and set my seal this thirteenth day of April, eighteen hundred and Seventy one.

                                                                                                                                                Jacob T. Morton                              (seal)

Signed, sealed, declared and published by the above named Jacob T. Morton as and for his last will and testament in presence of us, who at his request and in his presence and in presence of each other have subscribed our names as witnesses thereto.

                                                                Mercy B. Lovell

                                                                Leml. Bradford

                                                                J. E. Sherman

 

Leander Lovell, of Plymouth, was granted Letters Testamentary on the estate of Jacob T. Morton, late of Plymouth, on 11 Sept. 1871, with Isaac Brewster and James Cox, of Plymouth, as sureties.

 

Isaac Brewster, Lemuel Bradford, and James Cox were appointed to appraise the estate of Jacob T. Morton, late of Plymouth. The inventory was dated 23 Nov. 1871, and totaled $342.00, including his real estate valued at $300. Leander Lovell, the executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 23 Nov. 1871.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 140, p. 247, from FHL microfilm #0556648, Vol. 124, p. 396, and Vol. 109, p. 408.

 

 

Will of Johanah Morton of Plymouth, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1727) *

In the Name of God Amen I Johanah Morton of Plimouth in the County of Plimouth widow being of a disposeing mind & memory blessed be God Calling to mind my own Mortality do make & ordain this my last Will & Testament in the Manner following in the first place I Bequeath my Soul to God that gave it & my body to the Earth with decent Christian burial In hopes of a happy Resurection. And as to the worldly Effets that it hath Pleased God to bless me with I dispose of the same in the following order Imprimis I Give & Bequeath unto my loving Son Manasseth the sum of fifty pounds. Item I Give & Bequeath unto my Loving Son Goerg half my meadow at Saquash to him & his heirs & assignes forever.

Item I Give & Bequeath unto my loving daughter Hannah the sum of fifty pounds.

Item I Give & Bequeath unto my loving daughter Johanah the sum of fifty pounds.

Item I Give & Bequeath unto my loving daughter Rebeckah the sum of fifty pounds.

Item I Give & Bequeath unto my grand Children the Children of my Daughter Ruth the sum of fifty pounds & to my grand daughter hannah Barnabe the sum of ten pounds above her part of sd fifty pounds.

Item I give unto my loving daughter Elizabeth the sum of two hundred pounds.

Item I Give unto the Children of my loving son Ephraim the sum of twenty shillings.

Item I Give & bequeath unto my loving son Timothy the sum of five shillings.

Item I Give & bequeath unto my Loving son Thomas all my homestead & the other half of my meadow at Saquash upon Condition that he pay the above mentioned Legacies to him & his heirs & assignes forever: & after my Just debts are paid & funeral Charge then my mind is that the remainder of my personell or movable Estate be Eaqually divided amongst my daughters or Such a legaty were[?]ford them the Children of my daughter Ruth to have an eaquall Share with one of their Aunts. Lastly I do nominate ordain & appoint my well-beloved Child Georg Morton & my loving son in law John Dyer both of Plimouth my Executors of this my last will & Testament hereby revoking & making void all other will or wills heretofore by me made & Confirming this & no other to be my last will & Testament In Witness whereof I have hereunto Sett my hand & seal this twelfth day of December Annoque Domini 1727

Signed Sealed Published pronounced

& declared by the aforesd Johanah

Morton to be her last will & Testament

before us                                                                                                                                                her

Ephraim Kempton                                                                                                               Johanah  X M   Morton

Samuel Kempton                                                                                                                                 mark

Francis Adams

 

Probated on 19 Sept. 1728, and proved by Ephraim Kempton, Samuel Kempton, and Francis Adams.

No inventory was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 5, p. 501-502, from FHL microfilm #0550511.

 

 

Will of John Morton of Middleborough, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1718) *

I John Morton of Middleborough in the County of Plymouth In New England, being through the great Mercy of God, in health both in body and mind, but Considering the uncertainty of Life and the Certainty of death, do therefore make and ordain this my last Will and Testament in manner following. First I Commit my Soul into the hands of God who gave it, and my body to the earth, in hopes of a Glorious Resurrection unto Eternal life, through the Merrits of the Lord Jesus Christ: and as to what worldly estate it hath pleased God graciously to behust me withall, I do by these presents dispose of the Same in manner following. That is to Say, Imprimis I give and Bequeath unto my beloved wife Mary Morton (over & above the best bed and furniture which of Right belongs to her) the use of one fire room in my house during her widdowhood; and do hereby Will and require my son Ebenezer Morton to find his mother the use of a Milk Cow, both in Winter & Summer; and firewood Cut and brought to her Dore, and also pay her Twelve pounds a year out of the Produce of the farm during her widdowhood: and if through age or Infirmity my wife need Better Support, my Will is that my Sd Son Shall provide for her and maintain her honourably during her life. Item I Give to my three daughters which are yet unmarried viz: Phebe Hannah & Deborah, the use of one fire room in my house along with their mother; and also do Will and Require my Sd Son to Provide for them fire wood, Cut & brought to their dore, and to keep a Cow for each of them both Summer & Winter, So long as they live unmarried & no Longer they finding themselves the Cows  Item I give and Bequeath unto my Sd Son Ebenezer Morton & his heirs & assigns for ever my whole farm whereon I now Dwell with all the Land thereunto belonging, viz, all my Land in the Purchase Called the Little Lot purchase with the housing thereon Lying on the westward Side of the River. also I give him one Yoak of oxen and two Cows, with all my Carts plows and utensells belonging to my Team; and also One feather Bed and Beding thereunto belonging; also the remaining time which I have in Samuel Hacket, hereby requiring him to fulfill my Indenture to Sd Hacket also I give him all my wearing apparrell; with my arms & ammunition. Also I give to my Sd Son my negro Called Sherper So Long as my Sd Son Shall pay his mother the Sum above mentioned; and afterwards I Give my Sd Negro unto my five daughters, unles my Sd Son Shall Se reason to pay his five Sisters or theirs the Sum of fourty pounds: and then the Sd negro to remain to him forever. Item I give to my daughter Phebe a feather bed & beding thereunto belonging. Item I give to my daughter Hannah a feather bed and beding thereunto belonging. Item I give to my daughter Deborah a feather bed and beding thereunto belonging: Item I Give and bequeath unto my five daughters and to their respective heirs and assignes forever, my two Lots of Land in the South purchase in Middleborough equally amongst them—

Item I give to my five daughters, Johanah, Phebe, Mary, Hanah & Deborah All my Cattle (except the two Oxen and the two Cows already given to my Sd Son) as also all my horss kind my Sheep & Swine to be equally divided amongst them  Item I Give all the remaining part of my housell Goods and moveable Estate equally amongst my Six Childrean. And it is my mind and will that if the debts owing to me are not Sufficient to pay my debts and defray my funerall Charges that what remains wanting Shall be defrayed out of my Stock given to my five daughters. Ult. I nominate and Appoint my beloved wife and my Son Ebenezer Sole Executors of this my last Will and Testament. In Wittness whereof I have hereunto Set my hand and Seal the Seventeenth day of January Anno Domini 1717/18

Signed Sealed & declared to be his last                                                                          John Morton      (seal)

Will & Testament In presence of us ~~

Isaac Lothrop.  John Watson  Nathaniel Thomas Junr.

 

Plym. Ss. On the 1st Day of May 1718. The abovenamed Major Isaac Lothrop Mr. John Watson & Nathaniel Thomas Junr. Esqr. made Oath that they Saw the abovenamed John Morton Signe, & Seal, & heard him declare this Instrument to be his last Will & Testament; and that he then was of a disposing mind and memory to the best of their knowledge; and that they Set to their hands as Wittness to the Same in the Sd Mortons presence.  Before me

                                                                                                                                Nathaniel Thomas Judge of Probts.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Mr. John Morton, late of Middleborough, who died on 20 Mar. 1718, was appraised by Ichabod Southworth, Peter Bennet, and Samuel Barrows on 22 May 1718, but not totaled. Ebenezer Morton, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 18 June 1718.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 4, pp. 76-77, 131-132, from FHL microfilm #0550510.

 

 

Will of John Morton of Plympton, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1738) *

In The Name of God Amen The Tenth Day of November Anno Domini 1738 I John Morton of Plymouth In the County of Plymouth In the Province of the Massachusetts Bay in New England yeoman being very sick & weake of Body but of Perfect Mind & Memory Thanks be Given to God for it. Therefore calling to mind the Mortality of My Body & Knowing that it is appointed for all men once to Dye Do Make & ordain this my Last Will & Testament That Is to Say Principally & first of all I Give & Recomend my Soul Into the Hands of God that Gave it & my Body I Recomend to the Earth to be Buried in a Christian & Decent Maner at the Discretion of My Executors Nothing Doubting but at the General Resurrection I Shall Receive the Same by the almighty Power of God; and as Touching such worldly Estate wherewith it has Pleased God to Bless me In this Life after my Just Debts & funeral Expences be Duly paid by my Executors Hereafter Named I Give & Dispose of ye Same in the following Maner & Form —

Imps I Give & Bequeath to my Oldest Son John the one half or Moiety of my whole Estate both Real & Personall —

Item I also Give & Bequeath ye other Half of My whole Estate both Real & Personal to be Equally Divided & Distributed to & among my Three Sons Namely Josiah James & David —

Finally I Constitute & appoint my Two Sons Namely John & Josiah to be my Executors of this my Last will & Testament. In Testimony & In Consideration Hereof I have Hereunto Set my hand & Seal this Day & year first above written ~ —

Signd Seald & Declared by the sd John Morton to

be his Last will & Testament In Presence of us                                                                             John Morton                      (seal)

Joseph Morton  Joseph Warren  Thos. Bartlett  Lazr LeBarron

 

Presented for probate on 14 Mar. 1738[/39], and proved by Joseph Warren, Thomas Bartlett & Lazarus LeBarron, three of the witnesses.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of John Morton, late of Plymouth, was appraised by Joseph Morton, Thomas Bartlett and Joseph Warren on 16 May 1739, not totaled, but his dwelling house & barn and the land adjoining it were valued at £920, and there were several other small parcels of land. Josiah Morton, one of the executors, gave his oath to the inventory on 16 May 1739.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 8, pp. 9-10, 67-68, from FHL microfilm #0551531.

 

 

Will of John Morton of Plymouth, Plymouth County, Massachusetts Bay (1784) *

In the Name of God Amen—I, John Morton of Middleborough in the County of Plymouth, do make my Last will and testament in form following—first and principally, I humbly Commit my Soul to God who Gave it, trusting to his mercy & Christs merits for Salvation, my body to be buried at the discretion of my Executor hereafter named in hope of the Resurrection – touching such worldly Estate as it hath pleased God to bless me with, I dispose of as follows ~

Imprimis – I Give and devise unto my two Sons vizt to Thomas Morton one half of all my Real Estate in Middleborough in the County aforesaid – and to John Morton junr the other half of the aforesaid Estate, to them and their Heirs and assigns forever – and I also Give unto them all my husbandry farming tools & implements for husbandry, all to be equally divided between them two Sons my will is also, that all my Personal Estate after my just debts and funeral charges are paid, the Remainder to be equally divided to my five Children vizt – Thomas Morton & John Morton junr Hannah Edson the wife of Abiel Edson – Lucy Soule the wife of Jabez Soule, and Elisabeth Morton my youngest daughter – and furthermore my will is that my aforesaid daughter Elisabeth shall have all my Houshold Goods and indoor moveables, and that my two Daughters vizt. Hannah Edson and Lucy Soule shall be accountable for what they had at the time of their marriage and with what is Given and bequested to my daughter Elisabeth shall be valued, and they three Daughters are to be made equal one with the other

And I do by these presents Constitute and appoint my aforesaid Son Thomas Morton to be my Sole Executor to this my Last will and testament. In witness whereof I have Sett my hand and Seal this Eighteenth day of March A.D. one thousand Seven Hundred and Eighty four

Signed, Sealed, Published & Delivered by the

said John Morton to be his Last will in pre-                                                                   John Morton                      (seal)

sence of us who in his presence Subscribed ye.

same as witnesses thereof

                Silas Wood

                Joshua Morton

                Ichabod Morton junr

Presented for probate on the fourth day of September 1786 by Thomas Morton, the Executor, and proved by Joshua Morton and Ichabod Morton junr, two of the witnesses.

 

Joseph Clark, Physician, Seth Morton, yeoman, and Jacob Bennet, yeoman, all of Middlebo, were appointed to appraise the estate of John Morton, late of Middlebo, yeoman, on 4 Sept. 1786. The Inventory of the Estate Real & Personal of John Morton, late of Middleborough, dated 1 Dec. 1786, totaled £393.7.4, including his lands and buildings valued at £306. Thomas Morton, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 4 Dec. 1786.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 30, pp. 15-16, 45, from FHL microfilm #0550716.

 

 

Will of John Morton of Middleborough, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1827) *

        Be it Remembered that I John Morton of Middleborough in the County of Plymouth and Commonwealth of Massachusetts, now being of sound and disposing mind, but unwell and liable to sudden death, make and ordain the following disposition of my Estate as my last Will and Testament, to wit.

        I devise and bequeath unto my well beloved wife all my estate both real and persona, of whatever description, subject to the legacies herein after expressed, to her, her heirs and assigns forever.

        I give and bequeath to my daughter Abigail, the widow of Stephen B. Pickens, deceased, five dollars.

        I give and bequeath to my daughter Betsey, the wife of Doctr Joseph Haskell, five dollars. And I do hereby make and appoint my said wife sole Executrix of this my Will.

                                                                                                                                                John Morton                      (seal)

        Signed, sealed, published and declared in our presence by John Morton the testator, and at his request and in his presence we do hereto subscribe our names, this twenty eighth day of May in the year eighteen hundred and twenty seven.

        Arad Thompson

        James M. Leonard

        Nathl Wilder

 

Probated on 5 Dec. 1836, and proved by Arad Thompson and Nathaniel Wilder, two of the witnesses.

No inventory of his estate was recorded, and the name of his Executrix was not named.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 78, p. 514-515, from FHL microfilm #0555264.

 

 

Will of Joseph Morton of Plymouth, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1754) *

In the Name of the Everlasting God Amen.

I Joseph Morton of the Town and County of Plimouth in New England: Desire to Bless God that I am now in Some Measure of Helth and Serenity and in My perfict Mind and Memory yet Calling to Mind the ____ Mortality of all man kind and knowing that it is appointed for all men Once to Dye do Make this my last Will and Testament as followeth. First, I Commend my Soule to God that gave it and my body to be Decently buried in a Christian Maner Hopeing Trusting that I shall receive it again at the Great and last day, to blessed and Hapy Resurrection, and as for what Estate, that it has pleased God to bless me with all I Dispose of as followeth, Vizt.

I Give to my Loving wife Mary Morton, the one half my Dwelling House and the One half of the Improvement of my Farm that I now Live on boath House and Land So long as She shall live my Widdow and no longer, and I also Give to my said wife the One halfe of all my personal Estate where so ever it may be found, the personal Estate I Give to my wife and to her heirs and assigns forever; and I Give to my son Joseph Morton and to his heirs and assigns forever the One half of all my Out Lands and Meadow lands Lying Distant from the Farm that I now live On. and I Allso Give to my said son Joseph the One Third part of all my homstead which Lyes to the Easterly side of the Country Roade. This I Give to my sd Son Joseph and to his heirs and assigns forever ~~

And now I Give to my son Ezekiel Morton and to his heirs and assigns forever My Dwelling House and farm and all the land and Meadow that lyeth on the westerly side of the Country Roade where I now Live and two Thirds of All the land on the Easterly side of said Roade, and I also Give to my said Son Ezekiel and to his heirs and assigns forever; it is further to be understood that my too son are not to Come into possession of what I have Gived to my Said wife so Long as She Remains my Widdow, and as for my personall Estate, that I have not Given to my wife I Give it to my Three Children Joseph Morton, Hannah Diman & Ezekiel Morton and to their heirs and assigns forever to be Equally Divided among them ~~

And I do by These presents Constitute and appoint my two Sons Joseph and Ezekiel Morton to be the Executors of this my Last Will and Testament, I Witness whereof I have hereunto Set my hand and Seal This Seventh day of January in the Year of our Lord 1754—

Signed and Sealed in                                                                                                           Joseph Morton                  (seal)

presents of us

Thomas Bartlett

Nathl. Warren

Sara Warren

 

Presented for probate on 4 Mar. 1754, and proved by Thomas and Nathaniel Warren. (sic)

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 13, p. 207-207, from FHL microfilm #0551540.

 

 

Will of Josiah Morton of Plymouth, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1833) *

                Appealing with reverence to the Supreme Being for the rectitude of my intentions on this thoughtful occasion, I, Josiah Morton of Plymouth in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, do thus dispose by Will of my Estate.

                I order, that in one year from my decease, there be paid by my son Amasa Morton, to each of the children of my daughter Mary Swift, viz, to Josiah M. Swift, to Henry E. Swift – to Mary Swift and Penelope Swift, the sum of four dollars severally, as their full share of my Estate.

                Further, I give to my son Amasa Morton all the rest of my Estate that I may leave, real & personal.

                In Testimony of all which and on condition that I am well and kindly treated, by all concerned, I hereto set my name & seal to this instrument as my Will, on this eleventh day of May 1833.

                                                                                                                                                Josiah Morton                  (seal)

                Signed, sealed & declared to be his Will the date above written in presence of us.

                Benjamin Whitman

                Z. Bartlett

                William Holmes

 

Presented for probate on the third Monday of Jan. 1838 by Amasa Morton, the Executor, and proved by Benjamin Whitman and William Holmes, two of the witnesses, Z. Bartlett being now deceased.

No inventory of his estate was filed.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 80, p. 13-14, from FHL microfilm #0555265.

 

 

Will of Josiah Morton of Plymouth, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1850) *

                Know all men by these presents that I Josiah Morton of Plymouth in the County of Plymouth and State of Massachusetts Yeoman, being of sound disposing mind and memory do make and publish this my last will & testament.

First        I give and bequeath to my beloved wife Sally Morton all my house hold furniture, and all my Personal Property except my right in the Schooner Avon. –

Second   I give and bequeath the Northerly half of the dwelling House in which I now live, with the lot running parallel with the centre of the House from the road to the meadow, to my daughters Harriet, Sarah, Lucy & Experience while they remain unmarried in single life, if either or all of them should marry except one then it shall belong to the unmarried. – And it is my request that my daughter Harriet should live in the family with my wife

Third      I give and bequeath unto my son Ellis Morton all my right and interest in the Schooner Avon, he the said Ellis paying all my part of the debts of said Schooner. Also give and bequeath unto my son Ellis the Easterly half of a Dwelling House & lot it being where Ellis now lives, and which fell to me in the division of the Estate of my sister Susan Morton, by said Ellis paying to my wife Sally Six Dollars annually during her life time. ~

Fourth    I ordain and appoint my Son Josiah Morton Jr, as Executor of this my last will and Testament

Fifth       I give and bequeath unto my son John T Morton the lot on which his House stands, beginning at the road, thence 170 feet Easterly between the pear trees till it comes to where the ground was last plowed, leaving the lower Pear tree on said John T. Mortons lot, thence 100 feet by the plowed land and 130 feet by the land of Ephraim K. Churchill to the road, thence 90 ft by the road to first bounds – In consideration of which the said John T Morton is to pay to my wife Sally Morton the sum of Seventy five Dollars. ~

Sixth       Whatever demands there may be against me it is my will that the Real Estate situated near the old Forge Privilege may be sold for the payment thereof,

                        In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal and publish and declare this to be my last will and Testament in the presence of the witnesses hereafter named this thirteenth day of February in in the year of our Lord one thousand Eight hundred and Fifty. –

                                                                                                                                                Josiah Morton                  (seal)

                Signed, sealed, published and declared by the said Josiah Morton as and for his last Will and Testament in presence of us, who in his presence and in the presence of each other and at his request have hereunto subscribed our names as witnesses. ~

                                                                                                                                                George Bramhall Jr.

                                                                                                                                                John Langford

                                                                                                                                                Calvin Bierce Jr.

 

Presented for probate on the second Monday of April 1850 by Josiah Morton, the Executor, and proved by George Bramhall Jr and John Langford, two of the witnesses.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Josiah Morton, late of Plymouth, was appraised on 4 Apr. 1840 by George Bramhall Jur, Ezra Leach, and John Harlow 3d, his real estate totaled $2254, and his personal estate totaled $735.00, which included a 7/24th interest in the Schooner Avon valued at $462. Josiah Morton, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on the second Monday of April 1850.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 92, pp. 131-133, 133-134, from FHL microfilm #0555640.

 

 

Will of Lemuel Morton of Plymouth, Plymouth County, Massachusetts Bay (1779) *

In The Name Of God Amen—I Lemuel Morton of Plymouth in the county of Plymouth, yeoman, being weak & infirm, but of sound & disposing mind & memory, do make & ordain this to be Last will & Testament~

First of all, I Give my precious soul to God who Gave it, hoping for mercy through Jesus Christ, and my body I recommend to a decent funeral.—And as to my worldly Estate, I dispose of it in the following manner  ~

Imprimis—I Give to my Brother Nathaniel, two Lots of Land Lying at Warren’s wells, containing each eight Acres, more or Less, one Lyes at a place called the Old Mills, the Other on the westerly side of the road, that Leads to Warren’s wells—both in Plymouth—to be to him & his heirs & assigns forever—and I also Give to my said brother & his heirs my pews in the meeting house, and my Cattle sheep, farming tools & household stuff and provision

Item—I Give to my nephew Lemuel Morton junr. my Buildings & Lands and meadow Lying at Saquish in said Plymouth—also my house & Land & Barn that was my Father’s which came to me partly by heirship & partly by purchase, said Land Lying both below & above the road—also the Lot that is called Gardner’s Lot, that Lyes between Capt. Finney’s & Sears’s Land, being in Breadth forty rods & in Length three Quarters of a mile—and also a thirty acre Lot at the head of said Gardner’s Lot that I purchased of my father, and a twenty acre Lot that I purchased of Amaziah Churchill—also a thirty acre Lot I purchased of Eleazer Churchill Lying at the head of the Lots, he the said Lemuel, clearing & discharging One half the incumbrance Lying on the Lands bought of said Churchill to Ichabod Holmes. also I Give to the said Lemuel my Lot of Cedar Swamp Lying above small Gains, that I bought of John Harlow—and also my Lot of Cedar swamp at Cranes Brook, that I bought of my Father—all which Buildings and Lands I Give to the said Lemuel Morton junr. and to his heirs & assigns forever—he taking Good care of his parents

Item—I Give to my Niece Mary Morton the wife of Thomas Morton, the house & Land I Bought of Zackeus Morton, and where I now Live—and also the Land adjoining, which I bought of Jonathan Churchill and Samuel Jackson up to the Land that Leads to Little town and Joining to Louber’s Field, belonging to the Dunham’s—also the Land & purchased of Eleazer Churchill Lying at high Ridge, being two or three Acres, she discharging half the incumbrance to Ichabod Holmes—also I Give her fifteen Acres more or Less joining to Oberry Rock, which I Bought of Amaziah Churchill & Abiel Morton—Also the nook swamp & upland, that I Bought of Capt. Stephen Churchills heirs—all the said premises to be to her the said Mary Morton and to her heirs and assigns forever

Item—I Give to my Sister Sarah Bartlett, a piece of Land Opposite to the house of Nathaniel Morton junr, which I Bought of Solomon Sylvester, to be to her the said Sarah, and to her heirs & assigns forever~

Item—I Give to the two Daughters or heirs of my Brother Thomas Morton deceased vizt Bathsheba Rickard & Martha Morton, to be equally divided between them, and to their heirs & assigns forever, nine acres of wood Land, Lying by Rider’s Orchard, so called, towards Cooks pond, which I Bought of John Harlow~

Item—I Give to the Children or heirs of my sister Mary Nelson, to be Equally divided between them, the One half part of a Sixty Acre Lot Lying at Finneys meadow’s—to be to them and to their heirs & assigns forever~

Item—I Give to Mercy Morton, daughter of my Brother Nathaniel a house Lot Lying Joining to the road Opposite to Ichabod Holmes’s, to be to her & her heirs & assigns forever~

Item—I Give & bequeath for the use of the poor of the Town of Plymouth, the sum of One hundred pounds Lawful money, to be dispose of by the Overseers of the poor for their necessary support ~

Item—I Give to my Nephew’s Joseph Bartlett Junr. and Thomas Bartlett all my Other Lands not before disposed of wherever Lying, to be Equally divided between them and their heirs and assign’s forever.—I also Give to the said Joseph & Thomas all my Bonds, notes of hand & Book debts whatsoever, and in consideration of these Bequests, I hereby Order them to pay & discharge all my Just debts, (except that to Ichabod Holmes) and my funeral expences, and the Legacy for the use of the poor

Lastly—I nominate & appoint Mr. Nathaniel Morton Junr. and my Nephew Lemuel Morton junr. to be Executors to this my Last will & testament—In testimony & confirmation of which, I the said Lemuel Morton, do hereunto set my hand and Seal this Fourth day of January Anno Domini, 1779~

Signed, Sealed, & declared to be his Last                                                                      Lemuel Morton                                 (seal)

will & testament, in presence of~

                John Cotton

                Ichabod Holmes

                Thaddeus Churchill

 

Presented for probate on the first day of March 1779 by Nathaniel Morton junr. and Lemuel Morton, the Executors, and proved by Ichabod Holmes and Thaddeus Churchill, two of the witnesses.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Mr. Lemuel Morton, late of Plymouth, was appraised by Ichabod Holmes, Samuel Bartlett, and James Doten, but not dated, and totaled £12,423.16.4, including his personal estate which totaled £1214.16.4, the lands given to Lemuel Morton totaled £6192, the lands given to Thomas Morton totaled £1726, the wood lots and pew given to Nathl. Morton totaled £46, and the lands given to Deacon Bartletts Family totaled £2778. The appraisers gave their oath to the inventory on 14 Apr. 1779, and Nathl. Morton and Lemuel Morton, the Executors, gave their oath to the inventory also on 14 Apr. 1779.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 25, pp. 161-164, 164-165, from FHL microfilm #0550713.

 

 

Will of Manasseth Morton of Dartmouth, County of Bristol, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1745) *

In the Name of God Amen the fiftenth day of October AD: Seventeen Hundred forty five: I Manaseth Morton of Dartmouth in ye. County of Bristol in New England Yeoman being weak of body but of Perfect Mind & memory thanks be Given to God for ye Same: Calling to mind ye. Mortality of my body and knowing it is Appointed for all men once To dye do make & ordain this my Last will & Testament and Touching Such worldly Estate where with it Hath Pleased God To bless me In this Life I Give devise & despose of ye. Same in ye. following Manner & form (Viz)

Imprimis my Will is That all my Just debts & funeral Charges Should be firs paid out of my Moveables Estate ~~

Item: I Give to Mary my dearly beloved Wife ye use & Improvement of ye. Southerly Half part of my Now dwelling House Together with the use & Improvement of all my In door Moveables Accept my Shop or Smith Tools Together with ye. use & Improvement of all my Live Stock Accept one pair of oxen ye. use of all as above Mentioned To be To her dureing the Time of her Natural Life

Item I Give And bequeath to My Son Tabor Morton & To his Heirs & Assigns for Ever all my Land Lying in ye. Gore So Called Together with all that part of my Homsted Lying To the Eastward of the Line here after Exprest (viz) begining at a Stake & heap of Stones Aboute Two Rod To ye. Eastward of ye. South Easterly Corner of my Goat Paster & About ye. same distance from ye. Swamp Lying Easterly from my House & in my South line of my Homested from thence North Eleven dgs. west To ye. Northerly line of my Said Homested

Item I Give & bequeath To my Son Seth Morton & to his Heirs & Assigns for Ever All ye. Remaining part of my Homsted Together with all My Salt Marsh meadow I bought of William Kimton Together with all ye. fences & other buildings Standing on Each I Likewise Give To My Said Son Seth all My out door Implyments Commonly used about Husbandry work Together with all my Shoop or Smiths Tools & my Gun and one pair of oxon all which I Give To my Said Son Seth as Above Exprist he paying Two Sixth parts of all my Just debts & funiral Charges & finding for his Mother My wife fire wood at ye doore of my Now Dwelling House at a Suteable length for her Chimney with all other things which She Shall Stand in Need of for her Comfortable Support as Meat & Corn & other Necesaries which She Shall Not be Able To Provide for her Self with ye. use & Improvement of what is for her Above Mentioned & To Perform ye Same during the Time of her Natural Life

Item I Give To my four Daughters (viz) Elizabeth Handy Ruth Peckam Joannah Mendal & Mary Dexter five Shillings Each old Tenure To be paid To them by my Son Seth Above Named

Item I Give To my Afore Said four Daughters All that part of my Moveable Estate which I Give my wife the Improvement of To be Received and Eaqualy devided among them after my wifes decease

Item my will is yt my Said Son Seth Shall Have my Apprintice boy & fulfill his Indenture

Item I Likewise Constitute Make & ordain My Said Son Seth Morton My only & Sole Executor of this my last Will & Testament & I do here by utterly Disallow Revoke & disannul all & Every other former Testament Wills Legacies & Executors by me in any wise before this time Named, Willed & bequeathed Rattifying & Confirming this & No other To be my last will & Testament In Wittness where of I have Here unto Set my Hand & Seal the Day & Year first Above written

Signd Seald Publishd

Pronouncd and declaird                                                                                                       M. Morton                                          (seal)

By ye Said Manaseth Morton

as his Last will & Testament

In Presents of us the

Subscribers ~~

Seth Hammond

Silvanus Mendal

Stephen West Jur.

 

Presented for probate on 3 Nov. 1747, and proved by Stephen West Junior & Seth Hammond, two of the witnesses.

 

Lieut. Nathanael Delano, Lieutenant Cornelius Jenne and Jonathan Delano, all of Dartmouth, yeomen, were appointed to appraise the estate of Manasseth Morton, late of Dartmouth, on 11 Nov. 1745. The Inventory, dated 12 Nov. 1745, totaled £1525.01.6, including his housing & lands valued at £1000. Seth Morton, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 12 May 1748.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Bristol County Probate File “Manassah Morton, Dartmouth, 1734,” from FHL microfilm #0577911.

 

 

Will of Mary Morton of Dartmouth, Bristol County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1844) *

        Be it remembered that I Mary Morton of Dartmouth in the county of Bristol and state of Massachusetts being blessed with a sound mind and memory, this thirtieth day of the third month in the year of our Lord, one thousand eight hundred and forty four, do now publish this my last Will & Testament in manner following. Viz.~

Firstly, My husband George Morton, deceased, having formerly given to our late daughter Sarah B. Sisson and her son George M. Sisson what he designed as their shares in his Estate.

I now, as my grandson George M. Sisson is otherwise amply provided for, give & bequeath to him one dollar

Secondly, I give and bequeath to my two Daughters Anna E. Almy and Mary E. Snow, all the rest and residue of my Estate wheresoever found and of whatsoever description or nature both real & personal, to their own use and disposal.— And finally I do hereby appoint my son in law George Almy sole Executor of this my last Will & Testament, in confirmation whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal the day and year above written.

In presence of us who at her

request subscribe as witnesses thereto                                                                            Mary Morton                                     (seal)

William Tucker

Benjamin Potter

Nancy S. Potter

 

Proved by William Tucker and Benjamin Potter, two of the witnesses, on 5 June 1855. Letters Testamentary granted to George Almy, of Dartmouth, the Executor therein named, on 5 June 1855, with William Tucker and Benjamin Potter, both of Dartmouth, as sureties.

No inventory of her estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Bristol County Probate file “Mary Morton, Dartmouth, 1855,” from FHL microfilm #0577911.

 

 

Will of Nathaniel Morton of Plymouth, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1709) *

To all people to whome these presents shall come know ye that I Nath:ll Morton of the Town of Plymouth within the province of the Massachusetts Bay in New-England being weak of body thrô pain by Reason of a dangerous wound and not knowing how soon it may please God to put an End to my frail Life Doe therefore whilst it Pleaseth God to Give me the ase of my understanding & am of disposing minde and memory Make these pesents to be my Last will and Testament & I do by these pesents make and ordain this Instrument to be my Last will and Testament to stand Good & Remain firm & Inviolable for Ever—

Impis I will and bequeath my soul to God who Gave it me & my body to the dust & to a decent buriall in hopes of a Glorious Resurection thrô the merits of My Glorious Redeemer & advocate Jesus Christ ye Riteous And as for that outward Estate which God hath bestowed upon me I dispose of as followeth (viz) – – –

I Give unto my dear and Loving wife Mary Morton all my Estate both Reall and persinall that I am now possesed of or have any Rite unto Either in ye Township of Plymouth or els where to be for use comfort and support & for the bringing up of my son Nath:ll Morton During the Time of her widowhood to be wholy Improved for yt End but If my widow shall marry again Then my will is that she shall have my best bed and sutable furniture there unto belonging as also I doe give unto my sd dear and Loving wife the sum o 30 pound to be at her disposing & her own proper Rite for ever ye above sd bed with the furniture there unto belonging togather with the 30 pound above mentioned I do will unto my Dear wife Mary Morton and to her heirs forever

It. I do Give unto my son Nath:ll Morton & unto his heirs & assigns for ever My now Dwelling house out housing uplands Meadow Land that I have in the Township of Plymouth or Midlebury or Els where that I doe not in this my Last will order the disposings of to belong and apertain unto him my sd son Nath:ll Morton & unto his heirs and assigns for ever but If God should so dispose in his Soveranity that my son Nathaniel Morton should Decease before he coms of age to inherit what I have in this my Last will Setled upon him: Then my will is & I do by these pesents give the one half of all my Estate that then shall be found unto my Kinsman Josia Morton the Son of my brother Josiah Morton Late of Plymouth Deceased to belong and apertain unto him ye sd Kinsman Josiah Morton & to his heirs & assigns forever: And as to the other half of my sd Estate that may then be found My will is that it shall be Equally Divided between my Kinsfolk here after named: (viz) To Ephraim Morton son of my brother George Morton and to Ephraim Morton son of my brother Ephraim Morton & to Thomas Morton son of my brother Thomas Morton and to Nath:ll Morton son to my brother Eliezer Morton & to Ephraim Wood son of my sister Rebecka Wood & to Lidia Nelson daughter of my sister Patience Nelson & to Anna Greay the daughter of my sister Joanna Gray to them & to Every of them alike proportion & to belong to them and Each of them & their Respective heirs & assigns for Ever: As to my Land at agawam my will is & I doe by these pesents Give unto my dear and Loving wife Mary Morton full power with the help and advice of of my frends herein after Named to make sale of my whole Interest of Lands in sd agawam Together with all my Rite that I have in that housing & Land Liing at Plymouth Town on which my brother Eliezer Morton now Liveth for the defraying of these Great Charges that I have ben by gods alwise disposing providence Exposed unto & I do hereby give unto my sd Loving wife full power to Give firm title to any person or persons that shall be pleased to by sd Land that I have herein set apart to be sold for the End abovesd: & Lastly I do Constitute and appoint my dear and Loving wife Mary Morton to be my soul Executrix of this my Last will and Testament to pay such debts I owe and Reseive such debts as are owing to me as also to take care for the decent buriall of My body and to defray such nessesary Charges as Relating thereunto & I do Request my dear brother Ephraim Morton and my 2 Kins men Benjamin Warren & Thomas faunce Much Confiding in their Love and faithfulness to be helpfull to my sd Executrix in acting and disposing of Perticulers according to the tener of this my Last Will and Testament: Thus hoping that this my Last will be observed & kept hereby Revoaking all former wills Either verball or Riten  In witness whereof I the sd Nath:ll Morton have hereunto set my hand and seal on the 23 day of June anno domini 1709

Signed sealed & Declared to be his Last

will and Testament in presents of us                                                                                                Nathaniel Morton            (seal)

Thomas Holmes

Thomas Morton Junr.

Thomas faunce

 

Memorandom that on the fist day of octor. Anno Dom: 1709 Thomas fance Thomas Holms & Thomas Morton the witnesses named in this will Made oath that they saw Nathaniel Morton sign seal and herd him declare this above Riten Instrument to be his Last Will and Testament & that when he so did he was of sound disposing minde and Memory to the best of their Judgment before me                                Nath:ll Thomas Judge of Probate

Letters of Administration were granted to Mary Morton, the executrix, on the first day of October 1709.

 

An Inventory of the Estate of Lout. Nath:ll Morton Late of Plymouth Deceased was taken on 2 agust 1709, by Ephraim Morton, Benjamin Warren, and Thomas faunce, and sworn to by Mary Morton, Relict widow of Lout Nath:ll Morton, late of Plymouth, on 1 Oct. 1709.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 2, p. 156-158, from FHL microfilm #0550748.

 

 

Will of Nathaniel Morton Jr. of Plymouth, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1781) *

In The Name of God Amen—On the Sixth day of April Anno Domini 1781 I Nathaniel Morton junr. of Plymouth in the county of Plymouth within the commonwealth of Massachusetts Gentleman, being under infirmity of body, but of sound and disposing mind & memory do make this my Last will and testament—after Recommending my Soul into the hands of almighty God who Gave it, and my body to the Earth to decent burial in hopes of a Glorious Resurrection, through Jesus Christ—I Give Demise and bequeath my worldly Estate, wherewith God hath been pleased to Endow me in this Following manner vizt

Imprimis—I Give and bequeath to my beloved wife Joanna Morton One third part of my household Furniture, to be to her the said Joanna Morton and to her heirs & assigns forever—also the use & improvement of one third part of all my Other Estate, both Real & Personal during the time of her remaining my widow

Item—I Give and bequeath to my beloved daughter Rebecca Morton One third part of my household Furniture, and Thirty pounds in Silver money at Six Shillings & eight pence p ounce, to be her the said Rebecca to her heirs and assigns Forever

Item—I Give and bequeath to my beloved daughter Bettsey Morton one third part of my household Furniture, and Two hundred & twenty Five pounds in Silver money at Six Shillings and eight pence p ounce to be to her the said Bettsey Morton, and to her heirs & assigns Forever

Item—I Give and bequeath unto my Son in Law Mr. John Torrey all the wearing Apparell, that was my Son’s Nathaniel Morton deceased

Item—I Give and bequeath to my beloved brother – Sylvanus Howes my boots and Shoes – and also the priviledge of improving or employing my Fishing boat (and of curing the Fish, which may be in sd boat obtained) in such way & manner & so Long as to him the said Sylvanus may seem meet, he the said Sylvanus, from time to time paying to or accounting with my Heirs or Executors For the Earnings or profits thereof

Item—I Give and bequeath to my Friend Mr. James Doten my best Coat waistcoat and Breeches

Item—all the Residue and Remainder of my Estate, whether Real or personal, with such parts or parcell thereof as are in Reversion (after my Just Debts and Funeral Charges are paid) I Give and bequeath to my three beloved daughters vizt – Meriah Torrey, Rebecca Morton & Bettsey Morton, to be equally divided among them, vizt. to each one third part thereof to be to them the said Meriah Rebecca & Betsey & to their Heirs & assigns Forever

Item—I Do hereby nominate, constitute & appoint my Friend Mr. James Doten & my son in Law Mr. John Torrey Joint Executors of this my Last will and testament—In Testimony whereof I have hereunto Sett my hand and Seal the day and year above written ~

Signed, Sealed, Published, pronounced

& declared by the said Nathaniel Mor-

ton junr. as his Last Will & Testament                                                                           Nathl. Morton junr           (seal)

in presence of us

                Isaac Lothrop

                Thaddeus Churchill

                Thomas Morton 3d

 

Presented for probate on the third day of October 1781 by James Doten and John Torrey, the Executors, and proved by Isaac Lothrop and Thaddeus Churchill, two of the witnesses.

 

Benjamin Ryder, Ichabod Holmes and Sylvanus Harlow, all of Plymouth, Gentlemen, were appointed to appraise the estate of Nathaniel Morton junr, late of Plymouth, Gentleman, on 3 Oct. 1781. The Inventory of the Estate of Mr. Nathaniel Morton junr., late of Plymouth, was dated Oct. 1781, and totaled £2327.9.8, including his Real Estate valued at £924.4, and £1005 in State notes and Notes of hand. The appraisers gave their oath to the inventory on 30 Oct. 1781, and Mr. James Doten, one of the Executors, gave his oath to the inventory on 5 Nov. 1781.

 

The division of the Real Estate of Nathaniel Morton junr., Gentleman, late of Plymouth, among Mrs. Joanna Morton, the widow, Meriah Torrey, wife of Mr. John Torrey, daughter of the deceased, Rebecca Davis, wife of William Davis, daughter of the deceased, and Bettsey Morton, daughter of the deceased, by Ichabod Holmes, Benja. Ryder junr., and Sylvs. Harlow, approved on 10 Apr. 1782.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 28, pp. 197-198, 199-200, 297, from FHL microfilm #0550715.

 

 

Will of Nathaniel Morton Jr. of Freetown, Bristol County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1826) *

In the Name of God Amen. I Nathaniel Morton Jr. of Freetown in the county of Bristol and Commonwealth of Massachusetts Esq. Influence by the belief of the mortallity of man, Do make this my last Will and Testament. First of all I would submit my immortal part to the merciful disposal of him who gave it, and my body to decent christian burial at the discretion of my Executor hereafter named. And touching such worldly goods as I have been blessed with I dispose thereof as follows.

I give to my son Marcus Morton Esqr. all the property and estate of every kind and discription of which I die seized and possessed he to pay my debts and funeral charges and to maintain and support Mary my beloved wife during her natural life in an honorable comfortal and respectable manner both in sickness and in health and with due respect to her choice and election and in addition thereto I give her one hundred dollars to her own disposal and the carpet in the parlor and my Great Bible also to her disposal. And also to pay the Rev. Elijah Dexter fifty dollars as an acknowledgement though a small one for his kindness and tenderness to my daughter Mary while she was his wife And also to my two grandsons Nathaniel Morton Dexter and Henry Martyn Dexter being the children of my said daughter Mary six hundred dollars each which with their fathers legacy to be paid in one year after my decease If either of the said grandsons die in a state of minority the survivor to take his share. I also give to the said Nathaniel Morton Dexter my silver watch. And I also hereby constitute my said son Marcus sole Executor of this my last Will and Testament, Revoking all former wills, This twenty second day of April one thousand eight hundred and twenty six.

Signed sealed publish’d

and declared to be the last

will and testament of Nathl.                                                                                              Nathl. Morton Jr                               (seal)

Morton Jr. in our presence who

in the presence of each other

hereunto set our names

Job Morton

Patience Morton

Albert G. Morton

March 5, 1833, the last sworn, & adjourned to Dighton April Court

April 5, 1833, Sworn to by Job Morton & Patience Morton

   Apr 5, ~  Approved

 

The will of Nathaniel Morton Jr. late of Freetown was presented for probate on 5 Apr. 1833 by Marcus Morton, the Executor, and proved by Albert G. Morton, Job Morton, and Patience Morton, the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Marcus Morton, of Freetown, with Jesse Smith and George Leonard 2d, both of Freetown, as sureties.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Bristol County Probate File “Nathaniel Morton, Freetown, 1833,” from FHL microfilm #0577911.

 

 

Will of Polly Morton of Plymouth, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1840) *

In the Name of God Amen I Polly Morton of Plymouth in the County of Plymouth, Widow of sound and disposing mind & memory do make and publish this my last will and testament in manner following. I give and bequeath to my daughters Rebecca Tinkham and Susan E. Smith and to my son John L. Morton each one dollar. I also give and bequeath to my grand-children George M. Bell, Mary M. Bell children of my deceased daughter Hannah Bell, James Morton, Betsey D. Morton and Mary Morton children of my son James Morton deceased, each the sum of one dollar.

I give, bequeath, and devise all the rest of my estate real and personal to my daughters Polly Morton and Betsey Morton their heirs and assigns forever.

I hereby appoint the said Polly Morton and Betsey Morton executrixes of this my last will and testament.

In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this twenty eighth day of December in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and forty.

                                                                                                                                                          her

                                                                                                                                                Polly  X  Morton                  (seal)

                                                                                                                                                         mark

 

Signed Sealed published & declared by the above named Polly Morton to be her last will and testament in the presence of us, who at her request & in her presence have hereunto subscribed our names as witnesses to the same.

                                                                Nathl. M. Davis

                                                                Hannah T. Robbins

                                                                Oliver T. Wood

 

Betsey Morton, of Plymouth, was granted Letters Testamentary on the estate of Polly Morton, late of Plymouth, on 7 May 1874, with Mary M. Harlow and Ann E. Harlow, of Plymouth, as sureties.

 

Amasa Churchill, John H. Harlow, and Ezra Harlow, all of Plymouth were appointed to appraise the estate of Polly Morton, late of Plymouth on 20 Apr. 1874. The inventory was appraised at $175, showing only real estate. Betsey Morton, the executrix, gave her oath to the inventory in May 1874.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 141, p. 150-151, from FHL microfilm #0556648, Vol. 133, p. 194, and Vol. 109, p. 504.

 

 

Will of Sarah E. Morton of Plymouth, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1870) *

Know All Men by these presents that I, Sarah E. Morton wife of Nathaniel H. Morton of Plymouth in the County of Plymouth and Commonwealth of Massachusetts being of sound disposing mind and memory do make this my last will and testament.

I give and devise all my estate, real and personal, of which I may die seiz’ed and possessed to Warren B. Potter and Andrew G. Weeks, both of Boston in the County of Suffolk and Commonwealth of Massachusetts, and Eunice Morton of Plymouth in the County of Plymouth and Commonwealth aforesaid to have and to hold the same to them, their heir’s and assigns forever upon the trust following, that is to say.

First. To pay all my funeral expenses as soon after my decease as practicable.

Second. To take care of and manage the property for the benefit of all my children now living and to apply the income of the same to their support and education; and in case the income is not sufficient for that purpose, the trustees may dispose of such portions of the property from time to time, as will make up such deficiency and apply it to the same purpose.

Third. To have and to hold the same estate and property for the purpose aforesaid until the youngest child living shall become of lawful age, and then to divide all the estate and property aforesaid equally among my said children share and share alike, And in case of the death of any one of my said children before becoming of age, leaving no issue, then to divide the share income and interest of said child in the estate and property aforesaid equally among the remaining children.

Fourth. And I hereby authorize and empower said trustees to dispose of the property, and make such other investments of the proceeds as may in their judgement at any time when it may be deemed for the best interest of all concerned to do so, and to hold and apply the proceeds of said sale to and upon the trust aforesaid.

Fifth. I appoint Warren B. Potter of Boston to be the executor of this my last will and testament, and I request that he shall be exempt from giving bonds.

In testamony whereof I hereunto set my hand and publish and declare this to be my last Will and testament, in the presence of the witnesses named below this 5th day of April in the year 1870.

                                                                                                                                                Sarah E. Morton                              (seal)

Signed, published and declared by the said Sarah E. Morton as and for her last will and testament in the presence of us, who in her presence and in the presence of each other and at her request, have subscribed our names as witnesses hereto.

                                                                                                                Alex Jackson

                                                                                                                Abiathar Hoxie

                                                                                                                Lucy L. Hoxie

 

I, Nathaniel H. Morton of Plymouth in the County of Plymouth and Commonwealth of Massachusetts, husband of Sarah E. Morton, who has made and executed the above written will, hereby consents to the execution of said will by her and to all the provisions and conveyances therein made.

Alex Jackson

Abiathar Hoyie

Lucy L. Hoyie

 

Presented for probate on the second Monday of June 1870 by Warren B. Potter of Boston, with Joseph D. Hathaway of Freetown and William Weeks of Malden as sureties. Letters testamentary were granted to Warren B. Potter on 13 June 1870.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 106, p. 553-554, from FHL microfilm #0555647, and Vol. 124, p. 222.

 

 

Will of Seth Morton of New Bedford, Bristol County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1802) *

In the name of God Amen I Seth Morton of NewBedford in the County of Bristol Yeoman being weak in body but of a sound mind and memory do this Seventh Day of March Anno Domini one Thousand eight Hundred and two make and publish this my last Will and Testament in manner following viz

Imprimis I give to my beloved Wife the use and improvement of the south East Room in my Dwilling House, such a part of my indoor moveable as she stands in need of, as much fruit in the Orchard as she requires for her own use, and a priviledge to the Well and to Any wood at the Door during her Life

Item my Will is that my son Jethro find and provide for his Mother a comfortable support in sickness & in health both for victuals and Cloathes during her Life – and also provid wood cut a suitable length for the fire sufficient for one Fire.

Item I give & bequeathe to my two Daughters Sarah and Hannah Morton about twelve acres of Wood Land more or less lying the north side of my Farm which Lot I purchased of Isaac Spooner ~ to them and their Heirs & assigns forever ~

Item I give and bequeathe to my two Daughters Sarah & Hannah all my live stock, and my Ax and Hoe – And also all my indoor moveables. their Mother to use and improve such a first as she needs during life ~

Item My Will is that my two Daughters Sarah and Hannah have the use and improvement of the north east Room & bedroom in my Dwelling House, two Trees in my Orchard which trees they may have the priviledge of chooseing amicably the keeping of a Cow both Summer and Winter & a priviledge to the Well & to any their Wood at the Door as long as they remain single

Item My Will is that my Son Jethro keep a Cow for his two Sisters both Summer and winter as before mentioned.

Item My Will is that in consideration of what I have given to my two Daughters Sarah and Hannah they take good care of their Mother as long as they or either of them remain single

Item Will and expectations are that the Personal Estate which I have given to my Daughters should cansel all demands they have against me or my estate ~

Item I give and bequeath to my Son Jethro Morton and to his Heirs and assigns forever all my Estate Real and Person not herein before bequeathed and divised wherever the same may be found and that part of my Dwelling House which his Mother & Sisters are to occupy after their Death or Marriage if he will well & truly perform to his mother & sisters all the aforegoing particulars and the following

Item My Will is that my Son Jethro Morton pay my Just debts funeral charges and the expence of settling my Estate.

And lastly I do constitute and ordain my said Son Jethro Morton sole Executor of this my last Will and testament.

In Testamony whereof I do hereunto set my hand and seal the day and year above written.

                                                                                                                                                Seth Morton                                       (seal)

Signed Sealed published pronounced and declared by the said Seth Morton as and for his last Will and Testament in the presence of us at his request and in his presence hereunto set our names as Witnesses to the same

                                                                                                                                                Seth Stevens

                                                                                                                                                William Howard

                                                                                                                                                Saml Perry Jr

 

Octr 5, 1802 Approved

 

Presented for probate on 5 Oct. 1802 by Jethro Morton, the Executor, and proved by William Howard and Samuel Perry Junr., two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Jethro Morton, the Executor, with Samuel Perry Jun., Esq., and William Howard, yeoman, all of New Bedford, as sureties.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Bristol County Probate File “Seth Morton, New Bedford, 1802,” from FHL microfilm #0577911.

 

 

Will of Seth Morton of Middleborough, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1847) *

                Be it remembered, that I, Seth Morton, of Middleborough, in the County of Plymouth, shoe maker, do on this fourteenth day of September, in the year of our Lord, one thousand eight hundred and forty seven make and publish this my last will and testament, in manner following.

                Item, in the first place, I give and bequeath to my beloved wife, Lucetta B. Morton, my dwelling house where I now live, and also the wood – house adjoining the same.

                Item, I also give to my wife all my Personal Property, but what I shall hereafter name, for my son John Q. Morton.

                Item, I give and bequeath to my son John Quincy Morton, my Barn and shoemakers shop, together with all my mechanical tools, also my horse waggon, and sleigh, and collar of bells. I further give to my son John two beds, with bedsteads and bedding, sufficient for use.

                Item, I also give to my son John all my right, title and interest that I hold in my honored father’s property which fell to me by will, made by my father before his decease.

                I further state that my wife must pay all my just debts and funeral charges.

                Lastly, I do appoint my wife, Lucetta B. Morton to execute this my last will and testament, revoking all wills hereto fore by me made.

                In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and seal, the day and year above written.

                                                                                                                Seth Morton                          (seal)

Signed, sealed, and published, by the said Seth Morton declaring this to be his last will and testament, in presence of us, who, at his request, were called as witnesses to the same, and in his presence did hereunto subscribe our names.

                                                                                                                Jonathan Cobb

                                                                                                                Abner C. Barrows

                                                                                                                Ebenr. Lobdell

 

Presented for probate on the first Tuesday of Nov. 1847 by Lucetta B. Morton, the Executor, and proved by Jonathan Cobb, one of the witnesses.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 89, p. 429-430, from FHL microfilm #0555639.

 

 

Will of Silas Morton of Pembroke, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1838) *

Be it remembered that I Silas Morton of Pembroke, County of Plymouth being at this time through divine favor of sound disposing mind and memory, yet duly considering the uncertainty of my existence in this life do think proper to make my last Will & Testament in manner & form following Viz:

First I give to my granddaughter Betsey F. M. Ripley twenty dollars.

        I also give my eldest son Silas two hundred & fifth dollars and my Watch and one Bed and Bedding.

        I also give my daughter Caroline Briggs One hundred & fifty dollars & one Bed and Bedding.

        I also give my son George W. fifty dollars, my Clock & Certificates for two land tickets in Massachusetts State Lottery.

        I also give my daughter Sally F. Barstow, One hundred dollars.

        I also give to my daughter Mary Ann Singlewoman two hundred & fifty dollars, one third part of the household furniture not otherwise disposed of. Also a part of the house now occupied by me viz: the South East room below and the chamber over the same and the South West chamber adjoining it, also a privilege in common with the other owners of the other parts of said house, to wit, the Kitchen, Sinkroom, cellar, Woodyard, the entries, front & back doors &c. of said house.

        I also give Abigail Brewster the South West room on the first floor being the bedroom now occupied by me. Also privileges in common with others, as described to my daughter Mary Ann in said house. Also the bed, bedstead & bedding, Desk, fire set and looking glass now in said room.

        I also give my daughter Lucy D. Tolson One hundred & fifty Dollars (to be disposed of as herein after described).

        I also give my daughter Harriet Gilbert One hundred Dollars.

        I also devise & give the remaining part of the household furniture not otherwise disposed of to my daughters Caroline, Sally, Lucia & Harriet to be divided among them equally.

        I also give & devise my Real Estate to my Legal heirs equally to be divided among them all. All the rest and residue of my property of whatever name or nature, that may remain after paying my just debts and incidental charges, to be divided equally between all my Legal heirs.

        And I do hereby appoint Calvin Shepherd of Pembroke to be my Sole Executor to this my last Will & Testament and I also hereby appoint him to have the care and oversight of the legacies and bequests here in named to my son Silas to be in his hands (or some one whom he may appoint) so that the said property may not come into Silas’ hands, only as it may be judged necessary for his support.

        I also Will and hereby appoint Robert Briggs of Boston to take possession of the bequests and legacies herein named to my daughter Lucia or some one whom he may appoint so that the said bequests and legacies may be used solely for her support & benefit and no other purpose and I also Will that the within legacies & bequests be paid within six months after my decease except those to my son Silas.

        And I do hereby revoke all former Wills by me made.

                In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this fifteenth day of May in the Year of Our Lord One thousand eight hundred and thirty eight.  1838.

                                                                                                                                                Silas Morton                                      (seal)

Signed, sealed and declared by the within named Silas Morton to be his last Will and Testament in presence of us

        Mary Shepherd

        Seth Magoun

        John W. Osborne

 

The Will of Silas Morton, late of Pembroke, Gentleman, was presented for probate on the third Monday of May 1840 by Calvin Shepherd the Executor, and proved by Seth Magoun and John W. Osborne, two of the witnesses.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Silas Morton, late of Pembroke, yeoman, was appraised by Samuel Brown, Seth Whitman and Peter Salmond on 17 Apr. 1840, and totaled $6123.48, including his homestead containing 40 acres valued at $2500, and notes of hand against James Ford Jr., Samuel McFarland, Thomas Waterman, Isaac Hatch Jr., Seth Whitman, Martin Ford, John Sturtevant, Job Turner, Ezra D. Morton, John Howard, Thomas Blackmer, Anthony Collamore, Charles Barstow, Melsar Turner, Luther Magoun, and Joseph Holmes. Calvin Shepherd, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on the third Monday of May 1840, and his petition to sell the balance of the personal estate was approved on 18 May 1840.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 82, pp. 109-110, 143-145, from FHL microfilm #0555266.

 

 

Will of Thomas Morton of Plymouth, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1741) *

In the Name of God Amen, the Twenty Sixth Day of August in the year of our Lord one Thousand Seven Hundred forty and one, I Thomas Morton of Plymo. in the County of Plymouth In his Majestyes Province of the Massachusetts Bay In New=England, Calling unto mind the Mortallyti of My Body and knowing that it is appointed for all men once To Dye Do make and ordain This my Last Will and Testament. That is To Say Principally & first of all I Give my Sole into the Hands of God that Gave it me & My body I Recommend To the Earth To Be Buried In Decent and Christian manner att the Discression of my Executors Nothing Doubting but at the General Resurrection I shall Receive the Same again, By the All mighty Power of God, and as Touching such Worldly Estate Wherewith it Hath pleased God To Bless me in This Life I Give Demise & Dispose of the Same in ye following Manner & form (Imprimis) I Give & Bequeath To my Loveing Wife Martha Morton my Best Bead & furniture To it. and my Will further is That my said Wife shall have one third Part of my Personall Estate Beside the said Best Bead & furniture Item I Give To my Two Grand Children Daughters of my son Thomas Morton Deceased, Viz Bathsuah Morton & Martha Morton the sum of Twenty Shillings To Each of them To Be Paid by my Executors out of my Personal Estate, My Will is that My Son Lemuell Morton Shall pay all my Just Debts and Funeral Charges I Haveing given Him a Deed of Gift of a Considerable Part of my Estate I Give unto my Son Nathaniel Morton Eight acres & a Half of Land Lying at Warrens Wells in Plymouth & also all my Wareing apparrel my Gun & sword & Stuff To Him His Heirs And assigns for Ever, I Give also To my son Nathaniel Morton one Cow Item I Give To my Two Grandchildren Daughters of my Daughter Lydia Bartlett Deceased one Third Part of all my Personal Estate Not Herein Before Disposed of To be Equally Divided Between them & To be Delivered To Them When They arive To the age of Eighteen years & if Either of them Decease Before they arive To that age then ye surviveing one To Have the Whole Item I Give To my Two Daughters Sarah Bartlett and Mary Nelson all the Remaining Part of my Personal Estate Besides what is already Dispoesed of as abovesd. To be Equally Devided between them.

I Do Constitute and appoint my said Dear Wife Martha Morton Lemuel Morton & Nathaniel Morton my Two Sons Executors of this my Last Will and Testament & I Do by these Presents Revoke & make Void & Null all other and former Wills by me Heretofore Made = Ratifying – allowing and Confirming This & No other To be my Last Will and Testament and in Testimony, Hereof I the said Thomas Morton Have Hereunto Set my Hand & Seal the Day & year above Written

Signed Sealed Published Pronounced

& Declared by the said Thomas Morton

as His Last Will & Testament In the                                                                               Thomas Morton                (seal)

Presents of us the Subscribers..

Samuell Bartlett

Nathll. Shurtleff

Noah Bradford

 

Presented for probate on 12 Sept. 1748 by Lemuell Morton, one of the Executors therein named, the other Executor Viz Nathaniel Morton Haveing Renounced ye Executorship, and proved by Samuell Bartlett Esqr. & Nathaniel Shurtleff.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Mr Thomas Morton Late of Plymouth Deceased, not dated or totaled, was appraised by John Harlow, John Finney & Jeremiah Tower, and included his Homestead with the Buildings given by the Testator in his life time to his son Lemuell by Deed valued at £387.20, 2 lots of land lying Betwixt ye land of Mr John Finney & the land of Mr Thomas Seares given by the Testator in his life time to his son Lemuel by Deed valued at £312.20, a piece of Salt Meadow lying at Saquim also given by the Testator in his life time to his son Lemuel by deed valued at £62.10, and about 8½ acres of land lying below Warrens Well valued at £27.10. Lemuell Morton, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 1 Nov. 1748.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 11, p. 69-72, from FHL microfilm #0551537.

 

 

Will of William Morton of Plymouth, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1844) *

        Be it known that I William Morton of Plymouth in the County of Plymouth, Yeoman, being advanced in age but of sound mind and memory, do hereby make, publish and declare this Instrument to be my last Will and Testament in manner following to wit:

        I give and bequeath to my son William Morton the sum of Five Dollars which with what I have heretofore given him is all I intend to bestow upon him of my estate. –

        To my son Lewis Morton with whom I have lived for many years I give, devise and bequeath all the rest residue & remainder of all the Real and Personal Estate of which I may die seized & possessed on condition that he pay all my debts, funeral charges and the above legacy & procure and set up at my grave a pair of Grave Stones, one of which shall be of sufficient size & contain the names & ages & times of decease of myself and three wives, to have and to hold the same to him his heirs and assigns forever. –

        And I do hereby constitute and appoint my said son Lewis Morton sole executor of this my last will & Testament –

        In witness whereof I the said William Morton have hereunto set my hand and seal this twelfth day of January in the year eighteen hundred and forty four.

                                                                                                                                                William Morton                (seal)

        Signed, sealed, published and declared by the within named William Morton as his last Will & Testament in presence of us who at his request, in his presence & in presence of each other have hereunto subscribed our names as witnesses.                                                       Barzillai Holmes

                                                                                                                                                S O Whitmore

                                                                                                                                                H. E Swift

 

Presented for probate on the third Monday of January 1851 by Lewis Morton, the Executor, and proved by Barzillai Holmes and H. E Swift, two of the witnesses.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 93, p. 47-49, from FHL microfilm #0555641.

 

 

Will of Adam Mott Sr., of Hempstead, Queens County, Province of New York (1691) *

March ye 12th. 1681/2 Adam Mott Senor being about Sixty Yeares of age or there abouts —

I adam Mot, now very weak in Body doth now declare this to be my last will & Testamt from this day I being through gods mercy In my right Sences  —

1t  I do humbly Surrender & Give my Soull & Spirit to god wch gave it me & my body to ye Earth to be buried In decent manner

2dly  That all Just due debts that shall be made apear shall be payd Justly to ye. Creditors so Apearing: —

3dly  I do give to my Eldest Son adam fifety Acres of Land that is to take up & five Shills In Money: —

4dly  to my Sone James I give two Cowes & A hollow Lying ye harbor patch & my Carzie wescoate & my Serge Drawer & my new hat

5dly  to my daughter Grace I give four great pewter platters & those hollows Lying between ye grate run & tanders hooke those two hollows wch lyeth upon ye Left hand of ye Path going to ye towne from Madnans neck & three hollows lying on next to ye other Side of ye Path by this grate Rune then sd Land to remaine to her & her heyres for ever —

6dly  to my Sone John I do give my Lott of meddow Lying at whale neck & my hollows lying by ye harbour path —

7dly  to my Son Joseph I give a hundred Acres of Land where he Shall Se good to take up for his uses wch is yett untaken up & A hollow wch Lying by ye west hollow In ye Sandy hollow wch is a greate hollow —

8dly  to my Sone Gershome I do give five Cowes —

9dly  to my Son Henrys three Children I do give one two Yeares old heffereys —

10dly  to my dear wife Elizabeth Mott & all ye Children I have by her I do give & bequeath my house & Lott upon Madnans neck & wth all ye rest of ye Said Estate not yet menĉoned In my will aforesd moveables & Imoveables wth all & Every part thereof to Stand and remaine to my wife & Children —

onely My houses & orchard & win houses Lott att hempstead & This mene hollow In pticulers I do give to my youngest Son Adam but if in Case that my wife Elizabeth Should Se cause to marry that then Sd Estates wch I have given unto my wife & Children Shall Equally divided into four pces my wife Elizabeth to have & Injoy ye one pce & those Children wch I have had by her ye other three pces to be Equally divided between them & also I do give to my wife Elizabeth for her Life time if She Shall See cause my house & Land upon Madnans neck & a lott of Meadow [and if my wife Doth remaine a widow] that there should be none of ye Children to injoy Any of ye sd Estate untill they marry Except That my wife Shall Se Cause to ye Contrary —

11dly  as to four Proprietorships wch. I have in this bounds of hemsteed I do give unto my wife Elizabeth & her Children first to take her Choise of two of ye sd proprietorships & ye other two to be Equally dveded Amongst my four Eldest Sonns In Equall proportions & wth all & Every parte of this my will & Testamt I do hartely desire May be pformed In all pticulars as witness My hand & Seale this 22d day of March ADo 1681/2

Signed Sealed & Deld                                                                                                         Adam Mott Senior                           (seal)

In ye presence of

Joseph Sutton Senr

Wm Peatte

Joseph Sunnon Junr

 

                An Inventory of ye moveable Estate of Adam Mott &c taken & praised as Mony by Jonathan Smith Senor & Jonathan Smith Junior under oath this 5th: of Aprill 1690 ye totall Sume is one hundred Eighty two pounds nine Slls. & 6 pence —

Hempsteed Aprill

ye 5th. 1690                                                                                                                           By ordr. of ye Praisers

 

Probated on 8 Apr. 1690, with Elizabeth ye widdow relict of Adam Mott Senr desyring Letters of Administraĉon in ye sd Estate, administration was granted to her on 12 May 1690.

 

Letters of Administration cum Testamento Annexo were granted unto Elizabeth Mott, the widow, and Adam Mott, the Eldest Son of the Estate of Adam Mott Deceased on 30 Oct. 1691.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from New York County Probate, Liber 3, p. 181-182 was the original recording of the will, transcribed into Vol. 3, p. 127-129, and recorded again in Vol. 4, p. 132-135 with the addition of 8 words in italics.

 

 

Will of Joseph Mott of Hempstead, Queens County, Province of New York (1735) *

In the Name of God Amen the twenty fourth Day of March in the Year of our Lord Christ Seventeen hundred and thirty four five I Joseph Mott of Hempstead in Queens County on Nassau Island in the Province of New York Yeoman being now weak in body but of Perfect mind and memory thanks be given to God for the same yet calling to mind the mortality of my Body and Knowing that is appointed for all men once to Dye do make this my Last Will and Testament that is to say principally and first of all I Do Recommend my Spirit into the hands of God who gave it and my Body I do Recommend to the Earth to be buried in a Christian Like manner at the discretion of my Executors nothing Doubting but at the Generall Resurrection I shall Receive the same again by the mighty Power of God and as Touching such Worldly Estate wherewith it hath pleased God to bless me within this Life I give Devise and Dispose of the same in the following manner and form Vizt. First I Do Order my funerall Charges to be paid and all my Just and Lawfull Debts and next I do give and bequeath to my Eldest Son Joseph Mott the sum of three hundred Pounds of Good and Lawfull money of the Province of New York to be Raised and Levived out of my moveable Estate after my Decease and then after the said sum of three hundred Pounds is Raised as aforesaid and paid to my said Son Joseph Mott then the Remaining part of my moveable Estate I do give and bequeath to my four Children Vizt. Joseph Mott, Samuel Mott, Jacob Mott, and my Daughter Ann Cornell Wife of Samuel Cornell and also the Children of my Daughter Jean Seamans Deceased in the following manner Vizt. Joseph Mott my Eldest Son to have one equall fifth part and my Son Samuel Mott to have one Equall fifth Part and my Son Jacob Mott to have one Equall fifth part and my Daughter Ann Cornell Wife of Samuel Cornell to have to have one Equall fifth Part and the Children of my Daughter Jean Seamans Wife of Benjamin Seamans Deced. to have one Equall fifth Part only I except my two Negroes Vizt. Ned and Sue which two I give the Liberty to Live with which of my Children they shall see cause, I Do also appoint constitute make and Ordain Elias Dorlense of Hempstead in Queens County on Nassau Island and in the Province of New York Yeoman and my Cousin John Mott Son of my Brother John Mott of the Same place to be Executors of this my Last Will and Testament and I Do hereby Utterly Disallow Revoke and Disannul all and every other former Testments Wills Legacies and Executors by me in any ways before this time named Willed and bequeathed Ratifying and confirming this and no other to be my Last Will and Testament, In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and Seall the Day and year abovc written

Sind Seald Published Pronounced and Declared by the said Joseph Mott as his Last Will and Testament in presents of us the subscribers Vizt.

                                                                                                                                                his

                                                                                                                                  Joseph  J  Mott  (seal)

Jonathan Vallantine                                                      his                                mark

Henry Vallantine                                                 James H Holstead

                                                                                        mark

 

Probated on 6 Feb. 1735, and Letters of Administration granted to Elias Dorling and John Mott, the Executors.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from New York County Probate, Vol. 12, p. 393-396, copied from original Liber 12, p. 423-427.

 

 

Will of John Murdoch of Plymouth, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1756) *

                In the Name of God Amen, I John Murdoch of Plimo. in NewEngland, being senciable of the frailty and Mortality of my Body, & not knowing how soon it may please God to put aperiod to my temporall Life, Do Apprehend it my Duty to set my House in Order, before I die & tho’ I am under bodily weakness and Decays of Nature Yet blessed be God my Creator and preserver) I am of asound Disposing Mind & Memory Do therefore make and Ordain this my last Will and Testament, in Manner following

                Imprimis & first of all I commend my immortall Spiritts into the Hands of God the Father, Humbly relying On the alone merritts and Intersession of the Lord Jesus my dear Saviour and, Trusting intirely in the Promisses in the Gospill thro’ him for the parden of all my sins, & Eternal Salvation, and my body I committ to the Earth to be inter’d in a Decent Christain manner at the Discretion of my Execrs. Hereafter named, in Hope of a Joyfull resurrection at the last Day (to immortality in Hapyness with & thro’ Jesus my Dear redeemer, and as to such worldly Goods & Estate as I now have (undisposed off) my mind & Will respecting the Disposall thereof is as follows,

                                                                                Firstly My Will is that all my Just Debts and funerall Expenses & Charges be first paid by my Execrs. hereafter named

Secondly Whereas I Have before this Time Disposed of my real Estate by Deeds of Gift, I Hereby, by this my Will ratify and Confirm the same unto, and as by said Deeds are Expressed.

Item, I Give and Bequeath to my Loving Wife Phebe To Her, her Heirs and Assigns forever, One Thousands pounds lawfull Money to be paid by My Execrs. within eighteen months After my decease, or to take her choice of my Bonds for that sum immediately After my decease, also One half of my Household Goods of every Sort, and the Liberty to use and Improve two rooms which she shall choose for two Years after my decease, in my now Mantion House, but Upon these Conditions, that she be therewith content and not make Any chalange or demand for Dower in my reall Estate; if my sd. wife shall not incline to receive said Sum in Bonds at my decease then the same shall be paid her within eighteen Months after my decease with Lawfull interest for the same till paid.

Item, I Give and Bequeath to the Scotch Box in the Town of Boston Fifty Pounds Lawfull money to be paid unto Capt. John Eevin for the use of that Society, by my Execrs. within Eighteen months after my decease,

Item, I Give and Bequeath unto the third Precinct in the Town of Plimouth, and of which the revd. Mr. Jacob Bacon is the present Minister, Two Hundred pounds Lawfull Money to be paid by My Execrs. within eighteen months after my decease, and it is my Will that the same be paid to the Precinct Comtt then in beaing, & whome I do Hereby impower to Sett the same from Year to Year on Good Security, but not to lessen the Capatall Sum which is allways to be keept Good, and if not improved according to these Directions Shall return to my son John Murdoch his heirs &c

Item I Give and Bequeath to the poor in the Town of Plimouth one Hundred pounds Lawfull money to be paid into the said Town’s Treasurry for the time then being, within Eighteen months after My decease, by my Execrs. which Treasurer I Hereby Impower to Set out the same from Year to Year On Good Security, but not to Lesen the Capitall Sum which is allways to be keept Good, and if not improved According to these Directions the same same shall return to my Son John Murdoch his heirs &c

Item, I Give and Bequeath for the use of the Town School in Plimo. One Hundred pounds lawfull Money to be paid by my Execrs. within Eighteen Months after my decease, unto the Treasurer or Selectmen of said Town, who are hereby impowered & Directed to lett the same from year to Year on good Security, but not to lessen the Capitall Sum which is always to be keept Good, & if the directions are not Observed then the same Sum, shall return to my Son John Mordoch his heirs &c

Item. I Give and Bequeath unto my Daughter Phebe Bowdoin the wife of mr William Bowdoin of Boston, and to her heirs Heirs and Assigns a Debt of about Seven Thousand pounds Old tenr. which her said Husband owes me upon Book, also five Thousand pounds Old tenr, Due from her Husband to me by Bond. I also Give to my said Daughter Three hundred & thirty three pounds six shillings and eight pence Lawfull money and which her said Husband hath already received by Bond from Perez Tillson, and which was a Debt Originally Due to me from said Tillson,

Item, I Give and Bequeath unto my Grandaughter Ruth Wall To Her, her heirs and Assigns forever, the Lott of Land and Dwelling House thereon Standing, which I bought of Capt. Charles Dyer Decd. Scituate in Plimouth aforesd.

Item. I Give and Bequeath unto my son John Murdoch and to his heirs & Assigns forever, all the rest, residue, & remainder of my Estate (after the Legacies herein Expresed are paid) both real and Personall of what kind, Nature or Quality soever, and wheresoever the same is or May be found, whether moneys due to me by Book Bonds or Mortgages or any Other way whatsoever or cash in hand &c

Lastly I do hereby Nominate and Appoint my Trusty Frinds Edward Winslow & George Watson Esqrs. and my son John Murdoch, to be the Execrs. of this my last Will and Testament, Trusting that they will faithfully Execute every Article of this my Will According to the True intent and meaning thereof  In Testimony whereof I have hereunto Set my hand & affixed my Seal this Seventh day of February in the Twenty Ninth Year of his Majesty’s reign Anno Domi, 1756,

Signed, Sealed Published, Pronounced

& Dalared by the said John Murdoch                                                                              John Murdoch                  (seal)

to be his last Will and Testament

                In presence of

Lazarus LeBaron

Thomas Mayhew

Gideon White

 

Presented for probate on 5 Aprill 1756 by George Watson Esqr. and Mr. John Murdoch, two of the Executors therein named, the other Viz Edward Winslow having renounced the Executorship, and proved by Lazarus LeBaron and Gideon White, two of the witnesses. George Watson Esqr., John Murdoch Yeoman, and John Lothrop Gentm., all of Plimouth, gave bond for the faithful execution of the will.

 

Recd. this 6th day of April AD 1756, Six Bonds amounting to the sum of Nine Hundred ninty four pounds ninteen shillings and Seven pence lawfull money off George Watson Esqr. & mr John Murdoch Execrs. of the last Will and testament of my Husband John Murdoch Esqr. Late of Plimouth decd. Togather with five pounds and five pence in Cash, which is in full of the Legacy Give Me in sd. Will, and do by these present Acquit and Discharge the sd. George & John Accordingly of any and all Demans for Legacy or right of Dower in said Estate In Witness whereof I have hereunto Set my hand & Seal this Sixth day of Aprill Ano Domi 1756

                                                                                                                                                        her

Signed Sealed & Delivered                                                                                                Phebe  X   Murdoch

In presence of                                                                                                                                mark

Edward Winslow                 

Thos. Savarey

PlimoSc Apr. 6th, 1756

The sd. Phebe Murdoch Personally appeared & acknowledged this Instrument to be her Act & Deed

                                                                Before Edward Winslow of Plimo. Justice peacs.

 

No inventory of the estate was recorded.

 

Whereas John Murdoch late of Plimouth in the County of Plimouth Esqr Deceasd in and by his last Will and Testament duly proved & approved did appoint this son John Murdoch since deceasd and Edward Winslow & George Watson Esqrs his Executors And the same Edward having renounced the Executorship The Administration of the Estate of the said John Murdoch Esqr. Deceasd according to the said Will was Committed to the said John Murdoch the son and the said George who accepted the said trust and undertook the Execution of the said will, after which the said John the son Deceasd Leaving his sons James Murdoch And Bartlett Mourdoch his Executors after whose death the Administration of the Estate of the said John Murdoch Esqr according to his said Will Devolved on the said George as Surviveing qualiffied Executor of the said Will, And Whereas the said John in and by said Will Gave diverse Legacys (all have been paid & Discharged by the said John) And the residue of his Estate he gave to his said son John now Deceasd, And the said George haveing deliverd into the hands & possession of the said James & Bartlett Executors as aforesaid all the personal Estate, Bonds & Obligations which belonged to the said John Murdoch Esqrs Estate in the hands of the said George Executor as aforesaid (Exclusive of the said Legacys) We the said James & Bartlett Execrs. as aforesaid In Consideration thereof do hereby acquit & discharge the said George & his heirs Execrs. & Admrs from any demands on Acct. thereof. And in Case we shall have Occation to sue any person or persons for any debt due to ye. Estate of the said John Murdoch Esqr deceasd in the Name of the said George as he is Execr as aforesd. we do hereby Oblige Our Selves to Carry on such suit or Suits at our own Cost & Charge & to Serve defend and Indemnyfie him & his heirs against any trouble lost or Damages that may happen my means of such suit or for any debts that are now due from said Estate to any person whatsoever and that we will at any time hereafter when requested make & Execute such further discharge or release in the premisses as the said George Shall reasonably desire, In Witness Whereof we have hereunto set our hands and seal, the tenth day of August A. D. 1758.

Signed Sealed & Delivered                                                                                                James Murdoch                                 (seal)

   In presence of—

   Edward Winslow                                                                                                              Bartlett Murdoch                             (seal)

   Hannah Winslow

 

Plimouth Sc, November the 13. 1758.

The said James Murdoch & Bartlett Murdoch personall appeard & acknowledged this Instrument to be their free Act & Deed –

                                                                Before Edward Winslow of Plimo. Just Pacis

 

To Francis Shurtleff of Carver in the County & Commonwealth aforesaid, Esquire

Whereas John Murdock Late of Plymouth in said County esqr. deceased on the seventh day of February Anno Domini 1756 made his Last will and testament in writing, and signed, sealed & delivered the same before sufficient witnesses, by which will (after Gifts & legacies then made) he appointed Edward Winslow and George Watson esqrs. together with his son John Murdock, executors of the same will, but the said Edward having refused the said trust, and is since deceased, and the said John being also deceased, and whereas it has been represented & made appear to me that the said George Watson esqr. refuses to Act any Further in sd. trust and is under such infirmity of body as renders him evidently unable to discharge the same, and the same will having been proved, approved & allowed, Administration de bonis non, with ye. will annexed is therefor by these presents committed unto you the said Francis Shurtleff of all & singular the remaining Goods, Chattells, Rights & Credits of the sd. deceased, well & faithfully to dispose of the same according to Law and the direction of the said will… In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand & seal of office this 4th day of July Anno Domini 1791

                                                                                                                                                Jos. Cushing

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 14, p. 42-45, from FHL microfilm #0551542, Vol. 15, p. 43-44, and Vol. 27, p. 526-527.

 

 

Will of John Murdoch Jr. of Plymouth, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1756) *

                In the Name of God Amen,

                I John Murdoch of Plimouth in the County of Plimouth, Yeoman being at this time in asick & Langueshing condition, and apprehensive of the Dessalution of this My Mortall Frame being very nye, but Blessed be God I am yet of a Disposing Mind and Memory, doe therefore make and Ordain this my last Will and Testament in the following manner & form Viz

Firstly I Recommend my Immortall Speritt into the hands of my Marsifull Creator in Hope of a Glorious Resurrection Thro’ the Merritts and Redemption of Jesus my Redemer into a State of Imortall Bliss & Hapyness at the Generall Resurrection

Imprs. I give and Bequeath unto my Grandson William Tillson (the Son of Stephen Tillson) the whole Farm with the Dwelling House and all the Other buildings thereon Standing is Situate in the Township of Plimton in the County aforesaid, and is the same now in the Improvement of Noah Pratt be the same more or less To Him his Heirs and assigns forever

Item, I Give and Bequeath unto my son in Law John Wall, the Sum of forty pounds lawfull money, and also a Bond for thirteen pounds Six Shillings and eight pence Lmy which I have on him,

Item I Give and Bequeath unto my loving wife Ruth the Improvement of all and Singular the Remaining part Of My Estate both Real and personall, be the same or less however or wheresoever lying & Being, that is during her naturall life, and after that it is my Will the same descend in equall halves unto my two Sons James Murdoch & Bartlett Murdoch To them their Heirs and assigns forever

Lastely I hereby appoint my said Two Sons James & Bartlett Murdoch the Execrs. to this my last Will and Testamt, & hereby revoking & Dissanulling all former Wills & bequests, & Confirming this to be my last Will and Testament to Remain inviolable forever In Witness whereof I the said John Murdoch have hereunto Sett my hand and Seal this Sixteenth day of September Anno, Domi, 1756 ~

Signed Sealed published &

Declared by the said John Murdoch                                                                                John Murdoch                  (seal)

to be his last Will and Testament

                In presence of

William Thomas

Joseph Morton

John Lothrop

 

Presented for probate on 5 Oct. 1756 by the Executors therein named, and proved by William Thomas, Joseph Morton, and John Lothrop, the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to James Murdoch of Middleborough and Bartlett Murdoch of Plimton, the Executors.

 

The Inventory of the estate of Mr. John Murdoch late of Plimouth, was appraised by Melatiah Lothrop, Gideon White, and Ebenezer Spooner on 29 Oct. 1756, and totaled £933.3.6½, including his house, barn, land and appurtenances in Plimton valued at £200, and sundry bonds and notes valued at £466.0.5.

 

To Calvin Murdock of Middleborough, Yeoman

Whereas John Murdock late of Plymouth in the County of Plymouth, Yeoman, deceased, on the sixteenth day of December 1756 made his last Will & Testament in writing before sufficient Witnesses by which Will after gives & legacies therein made he appointed Bartlett Murdock & James Murdock Executors thereof & it having also been made to appear that both said Executors have since deceased & the same Will having been proved, approved & allowed at a former Court of Probate for said County, Administration de bonis non with said Will annexed is by these presents committed unto you… dated 1 Dec. 1834, with John Bent, Wm Murdock, Luther Murdock and Ebenezer Dunham as sureties.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 14, pp. 316-318, 382-385, from FHL microfilm #0551542, and Vol. 71, p. 457.

 

 

Will of Samuel Nash of Duxbury, Colony of New Plymouth (1681) *

                                In ye name of God Amen.

I Samuel Nash of Duxbury in ye Colony of New Plimouth being at present in health & of sound mind & memory praised be god, but being growing weake of body through old age & expecting no Long to Depart this Life, Doe make this my Last Will & Testament in mañer & forme following: first I bequeath my soule into the hands of allmighty God & my body to ye earth to be Decently buried in ye place appointed for that use, And for ye Disposall of my outward Estate my Will is shall be Disposed as by these prsents shall be Declared -- -- -- --

Imprmis I give & bequeath unto my Daughter Martha Clarke my dwelling house orchard out houseing meadows & Improved upland with Liberty to take wood for her necessary fire ing from any of my land, all which to be inioyed by her During ye terme of her naturall Life -- -- -- Item I give & bequeath unto my deceased Grand sons -- -- Samuel Samsons two sons (viz) Samuel Samson & Ichabod Samson, all my houseing Orchard meaddows & uplands whatsoever to be Inioyed by them or ye Survivour of them after ye Decease of my sd Daughter – To have & to hold to ye said Samuell Samson & the said Ichabod Samson their heires & assignes for ever, & if it shall happen that either of ye said boys shall Dye without lawfull Issue that then ye Surviver shall have all ye sd land to him & his heires & assignes for ever: And further my will is that at ye Decease of my said Daughter Martha ye sd lands shall be equally Devided, according to quantitie & quallity between ye said Brothers—

Item I give & bequeath all ye rest of my Estate whatsoever (my Debts & funerall expenses being first paid) unto sd Daughter & Elizabeth Dillono & Mary Howland my grand Daughters to be equally devided betweene them three.

Item I nominate & appoint my sd Daughter Martha to be my Executrix of this my Last Will & Testament

Lastly I nominate & request my Loving friends John Soule & Thomas Dellono to be overseers of this my Last Will & Testament, that it may be performed as is above Declared: In Witness whereof I have hereunto sett my hand & seal ye second Day of June in ye year of our Lord 1681:

Signed Sealed & Declared by                                                                                           Samuel Nash                     (seal)
Lieft Samuel Nash to be his

Last Will & Testament in ye

                presence of us –

                Nathaniel Thomas

                Deborah O Thomas.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth Colony Records, Wills Vol. 4, Part 2, p. 112.

 

 

Will of Samuel Nellson of Plymouth, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1754) *

In the Name of God Amen, the seventeenth day of June in the Year of our Lord God one thousand Seven hundred & Fifty Four I Samuel Nelson of Plimouth in the County of Plimouth in the Province of the Massachusetts Bay in New-England; Yeoman Being under some decays of Nature & labouring under the Infirmities of old age But of perfect Mind & Memory thanks be given unto God for the same & therefore calling unto Mind ye. Mortality of my Body & knowing that it is appointed for all Men once to die do make & ordain this to be my last will & Testament ~

That is to say Principally & first of all I Give & Recomend my soul into the Hands of God that gave it & my Body I recomend to the Earth to be buried in a Decent and Christian maner at the Discretion of my Executors herein after Named nothing doubting but at the Great and Generall Resurrection I shall receive The same again by the almighty power of God; & as touching such worldly Goods & Temporall Estate wherewith it hath pleased God to bless me in this life I Give Demise & Dispose of the same in the following manner & Form.

Imprs. I Give & Bequeath unto my youngest son Ebenezer Nelson one Certain Tract or Parcel of Land & meadow Ground lying below or on the eastly side of the Country Road & it being a Part of my Homestead Farm & it is bounded as follows viz begining at the northwesterly corner in ye. Line of Thomas Holmnes on ye. eastly side of the Country Road & from thence south abt. Eighteen degrees east by the east side of the Country Road Fortyone Rods & four links to astone set in the Ground on the east side of sd. Road & from thence north sixty nine Degrees east Thirty nine Rods to a heap of stones and from thence north seventy degrees and an Half east & about fifty two Rods & an Half to a stone set in the ground about highwater mark and thence south thirty one degrees east near about Highwater mark twenty Rods to a heap of stones thence south ten Degrees east seven Rods to a heap of stones thence south Fifty degrees & an half west sixteen rods & one foot to a heap of stones thence south Thirty degrees East two Rods & Ten links to a stone set in the meadow which is the North Easterly corner bound of the Meadow of Deacon John Atwood & thence the same Course to Creek & thence Bounded by the Creek upstream Untill the Creek Parts & thence taking the Easterly Branch of the Creek untill it comes to the Meadow of John Cooper & thence Bounded by sd. Coopers Meadow Untill it comes to the Meadow of John Atwood Junr. or Sedge flat, & from thence Bounded by the said John Atwood Junr. sedge flat so far as his Sedge flat goes untill it comes into the Salt Water bay at Low water marke, and thence Bounded away Northerly by low Water marke untill it comes to the Line of the Heirs of Thomas Holmes desed, & from thence Bounded & Refering to aperticular deed or a certain Deed of Sale Given the Second day of March Annoque Domini 1684 from Seth Pope of Dartmouth to John Nellson of Middleborough and Referrance being had to said Deed for the particular Bounds, and from thence Bound by the Heirs of the said Thomas Holmes deced to the Bounds first mentioned, And Likewise a certain Spot or peice of Salt marsh lying at Gose poit marsh in Plimouth aforesaid That I formerly bought of Nathaniel Howland of Plimouth aforesaid, as may appear by a Certain Deed of Sale from said Howland to myselfe baring date the fifteenth day of December Anno. Domi, 1618, which bounds are Included within these abovesd. boundries, with referrance being had to the more Perticular bounds, And Likewise Thirteen Acres & three Quarters of Land lying & being in Plimouth aforesaid that I bought of Helkiah Tinkham & Elizabeth Tinkham his wife as appears by a Deed of Sale from said Tinkham to myselfe baring date the Second day of March Annoque Domini 1744, and referrance being had to sd. Deed for the Perticular bounds, And Likewise a Certain tract or Piece of land Containing five Acres more or Less that I bought of Isaac Tinkham as appears by a Deed of Sale from sd. Isaac Tinkham to myselfe baring Date the Twentyfirst day of Febry. 1748, and Referance being had to sd. deed the Perticular Bounds, and also another Tract of upland & Meadow that I bought of said Isaac Tinkham with the sd. five Acres & it was Formerly the Estate of Hilkiah Tinkham late of said Plimouth deced & it is that part of all the real Estate of sd. Hilkaih’s that was Settled upon the said Isaac Tinkham by the Hond. John Cushing Esqr. Judge of probate for the County of Plimouth, and Referance being to a Deed of Sale that the said Isaac Tinkham gave to me baring date the 25th. day of March A D 1749, for the Perticular Bounds which sd. Deed does refere to the Settlement of the said Helkiah’s Estate for ye. bounds And another Tract or Parcell of upland & Salt meadow likewise being about Ten acres & three quarters more or Less lying on the Westerly side of Eele river in Plimouth aforesd, and it is that Parcell of upland Meadow that I formerly bought of my Daughter the Widow Hannah Dyer which she sold to me as an Execrx. to Capt. John Dyer’s Will and his Estate by Order of Court as appears by a Deed of sale from ye. sd. Hannah Dyer to me and Referance being had to the said Deed for the Perticular Bounds, And also another Tract or Parcell of upland & Meadow in Plimouth aforesd, and Bounded as followeth beginning at the North East Corner of my land in the line of Capt. Morton, & from thence South thirtyfive degrees West in sd. Morton’s Line thirty two rods to a Stake and Stones Standing in said Morton’s Line, thence South Fifty degrees East to a Small Rock by the edge of Eel river, & from thence Bounded down Streem untill it comes to the Meadow of Nathl. Warren and thence bounded by said Warren’s Meadow & upland untill it comes to the Land of Capt. Morton and thence bounded by said Morton’s land to the bounds first mentioned, And also One Hundred & Seven Acres of upland & Swampy Lands in Plimouth aforesaid lying upon the Southerly Side of aplace called Finney’s Meadow and said Tract of Lands is what I formerly bought of John Finney & Josiah Finney as appears by a certain deed of Sale from the said John Finney baring date the Sixteenth day of May A. D 1734, and the said Josiah Finney’s Deed of Sale bearth date the twentyfirst day of Aug. A.D 1731 – and Likewise Togather with all the Meadow’s that are Included in these two last aforesaid Deeds, and Likewise all my meadow or Meadowesh ground above the uper Dam, at aplace called Finney’s Meadow that I bought of Robert Finney Lying and being in Plimouth afsd, as appears by a deed of Sale from the said Robert Finney to me bearing date the Sixteenth day of May A. D 1734, And also one third part of my Salt meadow that I do owne Lying at the Gurnet near the Salt House beach Togather with all the Housings Buildings Fencing & Orchards thereon with all the Proffits Previlidges, Appurtenances and Commodities thereunto belonging unto him the said Ebenezer Nellson to Him & his Heirs Lawfully begotten of his body forever; only Excepting & reserving a Good & Sufficient Cart way of Twenty foot wide thro’ Gates or barrs a little to the Southward of the House where it now stands & where it now goes for the use of my son Samuell Nichols Nellson so Long as he Lives during his Naturall Life, and after my Son Samuell Nicholas Nellson’s deces, said way is to be for his Son Samuell Nicholas Nellson which is my Grandson to Him & To His Heirs Lawfull begoten of his body forever,

Item, I do Give and Bequeath unto my second son Samuell Nicholas Nellson One certain Tract or Parcell of Land and Meadow & it being apart of my Homstead Farm lying on the Easterly side of the Country road & I have bounded it out as follows, Viz. begining at a Stone Set in the Ground, on the East side of the Country road which is the South Easterly Corner bound of the aforesd. Ebenezer Nellson and from thence south about eighteen degrees East by the Easterly side of the Country road twentyfour rod to a great Stone Set in the Ground on the East side of the County road, from thence North Seventytwo degrees East to a stone Sett in the Meadow, in the Line of Joseph Ryder, & from thence bounded by said Ryder’s Line untill it Comes to the Meadow of Deacon Atwood, & from thence by said Atwood’s Line untill it Comes to the Meadow of John Cooper, and from thence by said Cooper’s line untill it Comes to the Meadow of Deacon Atwood, and thence by sd. Atwood’s Line untill it Comes to his North East Corner Bounds of his Lore Lott, and from thence North thirty degrees West two rods & ten links to a heap of stones by the sd. Ebenezer Nellson’s Line & from thence North fifty degrees & halfe west Sixteen Rods & one foot to a heap of Stones thence North ten degrees West seven rods to a heap of stones, thence North thirty one degrees West near about high water marke twenty rods to a Stone Sett in the Ground about high water marke and from thence South Seventy degrees & a halfe west by the said Ebenezer Nellson’s Line fifty two rods & a half to a heap of Stones, and from thence South Sixty nine degrees West thirty nine Rods to the bounds first mentioned. And also One Peice or parcell of land in Plimouth aforesaid being about twelve acres more or less and lying above the Country road and it is that Piece of Land that I bought of Ebenezer Tinkham as appears by a Deed of Sale from sd. Tinkham to me bearing date the fourteenth day of March AD 1743, and Bounded as may Appear by said Deed, and also one certain Piece or Tract of Land lying & beaing in Plimouth lying at aplace called the Water Course that I bought of John Churchill as appears by a certain Deed of Sale from said John Churchill to me bearing date the fifth day of March AD 17289, Refferance being had to said Deed for the Perticular Bounds, And also one third Part of my Salt meadow at the Gurnet near the Salt House beach, And also forty acres of Land lying at the last NorthEasterly End of my one-Hundred Acre Lott Lying at aplace Commonly called & Known by the Name of Finney’s Meadow upon Northwesterly side of Finney’s meadow and it is apart of the Land that I formerly bought of Robert Finney Josiah Finney, John Finney, John Crandon & Jonathan Barnes Junr. as may appear by a Deed of Sale from said Robert Finney, Josiah Finney, John Finney, John Crandon & Jonathan Barnes Junr. to me bearing date the tenth day of March Anno, Domi, 1730, And togather with all the Buildings, Housing, Fenceings & Orchards thereon, with all the Proffits, Priviledges, appurtenances, & Comodities thereto belonging, to my said Son Samuell Nicholas Nellson during his Naturall Life and after that to his son Samuell Nelson which is my Grandson, to him do I Give and bequeath all these aforesaid Premisses to him my sd. Grandson Samuell Nellson to him & to his Heirs Lawfull begotten of his body forever –

Item, I Give and Bequeath all the Residue or Remaining Part of My Homstead Farm that I have not Given nor Disposed off to my two sons Ebenezer Nellson & Samuell Nicolas Nellson as abovesaid unto my Eldest son John Nellson Togather with all the Residue of my Buildings Housings, fencings and Orchards thereon both to the Eastward & to the Westward of the Country Road togather with thirteen Acres more or less that was Laied out to me March the fourteenth A. D 171011  which is apart of the Land that is of the Mile & halfe land that was called the Town’s Commons & is Bounds, as may fully appear by the Records of said Lands being laied out, and also One third Part of my Salt meadow lying at the gurnet near the Salt House beach; and all the Remaining Part of my One Hundred Acre Lott, that I have not already given nor disposed off to my sd. son Saml. Nicholas Nellson lying upon the Northwesterly side of Finney’s uper Meadow’s which said Hundred Acre Lott I bought of Robert Finney – Josiah Finney, John Finney, John Crandon & Jonathan Barnes Junr. by a Deed of Sale from them to me bearing date the tenth day of March A D 1730, and it is the west Southwesterly end of said lott togather with all the Proffits Priviledges, appurtenances & Comodities thereunto belonging during his Naturall life, and after that I do Give all these aforementioned Premisses that I have now given to my said Son John Nellson during his Naturall Life, I do Give and Bequeath unto my said John Nellson’s Son named Lemuell Morton Nellson and which is my Grandson the sd. Lemuell Morton Nellson unto him & to his Heirs Lawfully begotten of his Body forever, my will is that my sons John Nellson & Ebenezer Nellson shall Pay all my Just debts, and my will is that all my Children shall Pay all my funerall charges ~

Item I Give and Bequeath unto my second son Samuell Nichols Nellson a certain Tract or Parcell of upland and Meadow in Plimouth aforesaid lying on the Northwesterly side of Ele river, and is Bounded as followeth, begining at a Stake and Stones Standing in the Line of Capt. Morton and it is the West southwesterly corner Bound of which I have given to Ebenezer Nellson before mentioned, and said Stake & stones is fifty rods from the North East Corner of the whole of my Lott & from thence, that is from said Stake and Stones South fifty degrees East to a small Rock by the Edge of Eele river, and my will is that all that Part of my sd. Lott that Lyeth to the West south West of the sd. Line, & I do give and Bequeath unto my said son Saml. Nichols Nellson with all the Proffits, Priviledges & appurtenances During his naturall Life, and after that I Give and bequeath unto his Son Saml. Nellson which is my Grandson, with all the Proffits, Priviledges and Appurtenances & Commodities, to him & to his Heirs Lawfully begotten of his Body forever

  Item, I do Give and bequeath unto my Grandaughter Sarah Cobb my thirty two Acre lott, so by Estimation more or Less Lying & Being in the Eighth Great Lott in Plimouth aforesaid Adjoyning to Collo. James Warren, & Lying to the Southerly side of Eele river, and Bounded as may Appear by the Records of the said Propriety with all the Proffits, Priviledges Appurtenances and Comodities thereunto belonging to her Heirs & Assigns forever And Likewise I give and Bequeath unto my said Grandaughter Sarah Cobb, my Bed that she now Lyes upon & one bolster, one Coverlead, one Blankett & one Pair of Sheets, and one Plain Table that was Formerly her Father’s and my will is that my said son John Nellson shall pay my said Grandaughter Six Pounds in lawfull money, and my son Ebenezer Nellson shall pay said Grandaughter Six pounds in lawfull money, and my son Saml. Nichols Nellson shall Pay said Grandaughter three Pounds in Lawfull money, and all to be paid to my said Grandaughter at the time of my decease,

                Item I do Give and Bequeath unto my son Ebenezer Nellson my Sealed Gold Ring, and my best Cane and my gun that he Generally uses or Shoots with, and my sword & Cartoose cox that he Generally uses –

Item, I give and Bequeath unto my eldest son John Nellson, all my wearing apparell and my Gun which is sometimes called a Musquet which was my Father’s & Grandfather’s, and a Sword that he has now in his hands ~

Item I Give and Bequeath unto my two sons John Nellson & Ebenezer Nellson all my working Oxen Carts & Logg Chain, Yoke, small chains Ploughs Team Tackellings, and all Tackleing that belongs to my Teams whatsoever & my Horse & Horse Tackleing; all which I do give to my said Two Sons John & Ebenezer Equally between them,

Item I do Give and Bequeath unto my Dearly & Beloved wife Sarah Nellson my bed room that I lodge in, at the westerly corner of my dwelling House and the back Leanto in said House, and the Buttery at the Northerly End of sd. House, & my half Seller, and the One halfe of my Great Celler Adjoyning to my halfe Celler, with the Priviledge of drawing water out of the well in the Well room, with the Priviledge of puting her fire wood in my wood House & the Priviledge of Passing from the bed room thro’ the well room, to & into the wood House, with all the Hean Hoase & the Hogg House at the south west end of said Hen House, and Likewise the Priviledge of the Leanto Chamber Over the Buttree and so far along in the Leanto Chamber as it Goes untill it Comes unto the bed room Chamber, and my will is that my Grandaughter the said Sarah Cobb, is to have the priviledge of Living in the Same part of the House with her Grandmouther, and said Grandaughter is to Live there untill that she is Married & no longer, and my will is that my said wife shall have one third part of my moveable Estate that I shall die Seized of that is not otherwise desposed of as above said, & my will is that my said wife shall have one third Part of the real Incom or Proffits of the Lands, that I have Given to my aforesaid three sons, and to be paid by my Executors herein after named in Such pay as the said Lands shall Produce, and to be then Paid by my Execrs. herein afternamed to my said wife as she shall have Occasion for it for her Comfortable Maintenance or Support, and my Will is that my said wife shall have One Cow well kept both winter & Summer, which shall be as apart of her Pay out of her dower abovementioned with the Priviledge of Room in the barn to keep the Cow & Hay for to keep said Cow with, and my Will is that my sd. wife shall use and Improve and Enjoye all these above Perquisites or rights of of Dower or Improvements while she shall Remain my Widow & Longer, And my Will is that the One third part of the Moveables that I have Given her as abovesaid is Given to her Heirs and Assigns forever—

Item I Give and Bequeath unto my Eldest son John Nellson my Pew standing at the Northwest doore of the Meeting House During His Naturall life, and after that to his son Lemuel Morton Nellson his heirs and assigns forever

Item, I Give and Bequeath unto my second son Samuell Nichols Nellson my Pew standing by the front ally Coming in at the front doore of the Meeting House at the Right hand Standing forward of Capt. White’s Pew the One halfe of it and the other halfe of said Pew to my said son Ebenezer Nellson to them their Heirs and Assigns forever—

Item I do Give and Bequeath unto my Grandson Lemuel Morton Nellson my Smallest Gun,~

Item, I do give and Bequeath unto my Grandson Saml Nellson my Gun that I bought out of Capt. Dyer’s Estate—

Item I give and Bequeath unto my three Daughters, Hannah Dyer, Sarah Shurtleff, and Bathsheba Holmes, and my Grandaughter Sarah Cobb all the Residue or remainder of my Lands and Meadows whatsoever wheresoever they are or may be found, that are not Otherwise disposed of Equally alike to be divided Amongst them all, and Likewise all the residue or remainder of My moveables or moveable Estate that is not Otherwise disposed off whatsoever and wheresoever it may be found Equally alike to be Divided amongst them all that is to say Hannah Dyer, Sarah Shurtleff & Bathsheba Holmes and my Grandaughter Sarah Cobb, And further it it is to be understood that my Will is that my son Ebenezer Nellson is to make and Maintain the first halfe of the fence, that is to say, begining at Deacon John Atwood’s NorthEast corner Bounds of his Meadow and so the said Ebenezer Nellson is to make & Maintain the first halfe of the fence that goes halfe way to a Stone sett in the Ground about high water marke which is the North Easterly Bounds of the said Saml. Nichols Nellson’s land, and my Will is that my son Saml. Nichols Nellson is to make & Maintain the other halfe of the fence to the aforesd. Stone Sett in the Ground about high water mark which the sd. Saml. Nickols Nellson’s NorhEasterly corner Bounds, and my will is my son Ebenezer Nellson is to make & maintain the first halfe of the fence from high water marke to the road, that is beging at the Stone Set in the Ground about high water marke which is the North Easterly Corner Bounds of the said Saml. Nichols Nellson’s Land, and my will is that My son Ebenezer Nellson is to make and Maintain the said first halfe of said Fence that reaches halfe way to the Road and the next halfe to the fence that will Reach to the Road my Will is that my son Saml. Nichols Nellson is to make and Maintain, and my Will is that; that Land at Eele river lying Adjoyning to the Southerly side of Capt. Morton’s that I have Given to my two sons Saml. Nichols Nellson, & Ebenezer Nellson, I do Oblige them & my Will is that they shall make and maintain their Partition fence in this form that is the said Samuell Nichols Nellson shall make & Maintain the first halfe of the Partition fence, begining at a Stake and Stones Standing in the Line of Capt. Morton, and thence the said Saml. Nichols Nellson is to maintain and make One halfe of the fence to the River, And the other halfe of the fence that is to reach to the River the said Ebenezer Nellson is to make & Maintain, and my will is that these two aforesd. Sones of Mine that is, the said Saml. Nichols Nelson & Ebenezer Nellson, shall each of them make and Maintain, their fence as is above Described their Heirs & Assigns forever, and my will is that my son Ebenezer Nellson shall have A Good and Sufficiant cart way thro’ Gates or Barrs thro’ the said Saml. Nichols Nellson’s Part of the land I gave to him lying to the Southword of Capt. Morton’s for him his Heirs and Assigns forever, and my Will is that my Execrs. herein afternamed are for to Provide for my wife out of her Dowrey that I have Given, and I do hereby oblige them to See that it is Done for her Confortable Support and Maintenance in every thing that she wants and to be Paid for it out of her Dower as above said, And I do hereby Constitute and appoint my younges & Trusty, Dutifull son Ebenezer Nellson, and my Trusty and Dutifull son in Law Abner Holmes to be the sole Execrs. of this my Last Will and Testament, and I do hereby utterly disalow, Revoke and Dissanull all and every other & former Wills Testaments Legacies and Bequests by me in any ways before named Willed and Bequested, Ratifying and Confirming this & no Other to be by Last Will and Testament In Witness whereof I the said Samuel Nellson have hereunto Sett my hand and Seal the day & year above written~

Signed, Sealed, Published, Pronounced & Declared                                                     Samuell Nellson                                (seal)

by the sd. Saml. Nellson to be his last Will & Testamt.

In Presence of us the Subscribers

Mary Wadsworth

Mary Wadsworth Junr

John Wadsworth

 

Presented for probate on 3 Apr. 1758 by the Execrs. therein named, and proved by John Wadsworth and Mary Wadsworth, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Ebenezer Nellson and Abner Holmes, both of Plimouth, Yeomen, the Executors, on 8 Apr. 1758.

 

The Inventory of the Goods, Chattles, Rights and Credits of Samuel Nelson, late of Plimouth, Yeoman, was appraised on 28 Apr. 1759 by Josiah Morton, Theo. Cotton, and Joshua Swift. Abner Holmes and Ebenezer Nelson, the Executors, gave their oath to the inventory on 20 June 1759.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 14, p. 468-475, from FHL microfilm #0551542, and Vol. 15, p. 136-139.

 

 

Will and Codicil of Ebenezer Nelson of Plymouth, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1803) *

In the Name of God amen, I Ebenezer Nelson of Plymouth in the County of Plymouth Yeoman, being weak in Body but of sound and disposing Mind & Memory, do make & ordain this to be my last Will & Testament.– first of all I commend my Soul to the everlasting Mercy of God that gave it, and my body to a decent funeral humbly praying for a glorious Resurrection through Jesus Christ, and as to my worldly Estate, I give & bequeath the same in manner following.– First I give to my Daughter Ruth Nelson & her Heirs & the Westerly front room of my Dwelling House and the Bedroom back of it & the privilege of passing to said Bedroom & of washing, brewing & baking in the Kitchen & passing in & out of the front & backdoors and to said Bedroom, and one third part of the Cellar at the North End of said Cellar & ways to it and right of laying wood at the back door & passing round the House & the north half of my Garden next to the Land leading to my Barn & way to said Garden. Also I give my said Daughter Ruth the use & Improvement of my Woodland & swampy Land which my Father Samuel Nelson purchased of Helkiah Tinkham being all the woodland & swampy Land lying without the fence at the head of my pasture joining woodland late Samuel Bartletts deceased & Cornelius Cobb’s Land my said Daughter Ruth to use and improve said woodland during her natural Life as she think most for her benefit, also I give to my said Daughter Ruth one Cow to be pastured on my farm and wintered in my Barn, on that part of my said farm, I have given to my Sons Ebenezer & Hezekiah they my said Sons Ebenezer and Hezekiah shall during my said Daughter Ruth’s living in single Life (at the equal Expence of both of them) support and provide well for a Cow for her yearly & every year during her remaining unmarried, or in single Life, which Cow is to be keep and provided for by my said two Sons above named with Hay feed, barn &c yearly and during the term aforesaid at their own trouble & expence & to be provided for on my said farm I have given them in this my last will for the sole use and benefit of my said Daughter Ruth & to be taken care of by my said two Sons free from any trouble or Expence to my said Daughter during the term aforesaid Also I give my said Daughter Ruth one half of her Mothers Cloathing or Apparel she to have her mother’s red Riding hood & Gold Necklace: towards her half of said Apparel – Also I give to my said Daughter Ruth Eight Bushels of Corn & two Bushels of Rye annually & every year during her natural Life, one half to be paid her in the fall, the other half in the winter to be paid & delivered to her at her House five Bushels of Corn and one of Rye to be paid her annually during her Life by my Son Ebenezer, and three Bushels of Corn and one of Rye to be paid & delivered to her at her House by my Son Hezekiah annually & every year during her Life out of their portions of my Estate and what I give them in this will is to be holden for the payment of said Corn & Rye & keeping said Cow for the terms aforesd  also I give said Ruth my Daughter one half of my Furniture Beds and Bedding in my House & one half of every utensil in said House over & besides what she now claims as her own in said House (excepting before the Division of my Furniture between her and Lucy my Granddaughter one Bed Bedstead & two pair of Sheets) Also I give my said Daughter all the provisions I may have in my House & at my decease – Also I give he[r] what Apples she may want to make use of yearly to be taken by her out of my Orchard. –

2nd I give to my Son Ebenezer his Heirs &c all that part of my House, the Yard round the same the Cellar & half of the Garden which I have not as above given to my Daughter Ruth. Also I give him his Heirs &c that is my Son Ebenezer the whole of my Barn & a right of passing to it, my Daughter Ruth’s Cow to be keep in it, also I give my said Son Ebenezer the Land I purchased of Thomas Holmes adjoining Lemuel Drew’s Land on the easterly side of the Highway all the above I give & bequeath to my said Son Ebenezer for value received of him by Labour Money &c. Also I give my said Son Ebenezer one half of my Meadow at Goose point, said half to be next Joseph W. Nelson’s Land. Also I give & bequeath to my said Son Ebenezer one undivided half part of all the remainder of my Homestead farm lying on the easterly side of the Highway between Joseph W. Nelson’s Homestead & the Land which I purchased of said Thomas Holmes home to the Bay or Harbour of Plymouth, Also I give my said Son Ebenezer, his Heirs &c thirty Acres of the lower end of my Land near Nicks rock – also I give my said Son Ebenezer one quarter of my Land lying within fence between Joseph W. Nelson’s Land John Bishop’s Land and the Land that was Phillips’s and the Highway. Also I give my said Son Ebenezer one quarter of my Land below said Highway between Cornelius Cobb’s Land & Samuel Jacksons Land near high Clift my said Son Ebenezer fulfilling the Conditions above & below mentioned

3rdly. I give and bequeath to my Son Hezekiah Nelson his Heirs &c one undivided half part of my Homestead farm lying on the easterly side of the Highway between Joseph W. Nelson’s Homestead & the Land I purchased of Thomas Holmes home to the Harbour of Plymouth, excepting what I have as abovesaid bequeathed to my Daughter Ruth & Son Ebenezer, he the said Hezekiah fulfilling the above & below mentioned Conditions – Also I give said Hezekiah the other half of my Meadow at Goose Point. Also I give said Hezekiah thirty Acres of my woodland near Nick’s rock to be taken off next to said Ebenezer’s thirty acres, Also I give my said Son Hezekiah one quarter of my Land between John Bishop’s Land & Joseph W Nelson’s land on the westerly side of the Highway which lies within fence (exclusive of the Land that was Phillips’s) also I give him one quarter of my Land on the Easterly side of said Highway between Samuel Jackson’s Land and Cornelius Cobb’s Land near High Clift, I give the same to said Hezekiah he fulfilling the above & below mentioned Conditions —

4th I give and bequeath to my two Sons Thomas Nelson and William Nelson their Heirs &c half my Land lying on the easterly side of the High way between Samuel Jacksons Land & Cornelius Cobb’s Land, said Land is near High Clift and an undivided half part of said Land I give them also I give to my said two Sons Thomas & William one undivided half part of the Land I own above said Highway between John Bishop & Joseph W. Nelson’s land, that lies within fence, exclusive of the land that was Phillips’s. Also I give two third parts of my Woodland at Nick’s rock, that is two thirds that remains after Ebenezer & Hezekiah’s Sixty acres is taken off to said Thomas & William. Also I give my said two Sons Thomas & William all my Salt Meadow lying in the Gurnet Meadow at the Gurnet, whether it be in Plymouth or Duxbury—

5th I give and bequeath to my Granddaughter Lucy Nelson, Daughter of my Son Samuel Nelson deceased one half part of my Furniture and Beds and Bedding which I may own at my decease (after the Bed & Bedstead & two pair of Sheets above mentioned are deducted) also I give to my said Granddaughter Lucy Daughter of my Son Samuel a Legacy of fifty Dollars to be paid her by my Sons Ebenezer & Hezekiah after my decease out of their portions of my Estate, viz ten Dollars of it to be paid annually by my said two Sons till the whole fifty Dollars is paid —

6thly I give and bequeath to my Grandson Lemuel Nelson son of my Son Lemuel Nelson deceased a Legacy of fifty Dollars to be paid him by my Sons Ebenezer & Hezekiah out of their portions of my Estate, after my decease viz ten Dollars of it to be paid annually till the whole fifty is paid – also I give and bequeath to my said Grandson Lemuel Son of my said Son Lemuel, the other third of my Land at Nick’s rock viz a third of what remains after my Sons Ebenezer & Hezekiah’s Sixty acres if taken off—

7th. I give and bequeath to my Granddaughter Ruth Jackson Nelson Daughter of my Son Hezekiah the Bed Bedstead & two pair of Sheets, I excepted from my Daughter Ruth and Granddaughter Lucy. Also I give my said Granddaughter Ruth Jackson Nelson one half of my Wife’s wearing Apparel, which I have not given my Daughter Ruth —

8thly. I give and bequeath to my Grandsons Elisha Nelson Son of my Son Ebenezer, and Samuel Nelson Son of my Son Hezekiah the woodland which my Father purchased of Hilkiah Tinkham lying without my fence and joining Land late Samuel Bartlett’s deceased; excepting and reserving the wood & sole use & Improvement of said Wood & swampy Land to my Daughter Ruth to improve as she may think proper during her natural Life —

9th I give all my wearing Apparel to my Sons Thomas and William —

10thly. I order my Funeral Expences to be paid by all my Children —

Lastly I give and bequeath all the Residue & remainder of my Estate (not above mentioned) both real & personal including my Neat Stock, Sheep, farming utensils &c. &c. wherever the same may be found, be it real personal or mixed to my two Sons Ebenezer & Hezekiah to be equally divided between them and order my said two Sons Ebenezer & Hezekiah to pay all my just debts out of their part of my Estate, and the above Legacies & fulfill all the above Conditions and I give them all the debts I may have due at my decease. And I do constitute and appoint my said two Sons Ebenezer & Hezekiah to be Executors to this my last Will and Testament and I have hereunto set my hand & Seal this 10th. day of December A.D. one thousand eight hundred and three ~

Signd. seald. & declared to be his last Will

& Testament in presence of us –

                Priscilla Cotton                                                                                                    Ebenezer Nelson                              (seal)

                Sarah Cotton

                Rosseter Cotton

 

  This Codicil to this last Will and Testament made this 19th day of august A.Domini one thousand eight hundred & six. Whereas I have given but fifty Dollars Legacy to my Granddaughter Lucy Nelson, Daughter of my Son Samuel Nelson deceased, I by this Codicil to my Will give & bequeath to said Lucy fifty Dollars more in Addition to the fifty Dollars in my above Will & Testament, the whole hundred to be paid her ten dollars a year till the whole hundred is paid her –

Secondly. I give and bequeath to my Grandson Lemuel Nelson Son of my Son Lemuel Nelson deceased, over and above what is give him in my above last will and Testament all my piece of Land within fence on the westerly side of the Highway, between John Bishops Land & Land Cornelius Cobb purchased of Joseph W. Nelson as far up said Land as the Swamp and two rods in width into the Swamp, this piece of Land as above described is taken off from the portions of my Sons Ebenezer, Hezekiah, William & Thomas and given to my said Grandson. –

Thirdly I give and bequeath to my Sons William Nelson & Thomas Nelson, that part of my Woodland at Nick’s rock which I had given to my Grandson Lemuel Nelson in my above Will – Also I give and bequeath to my said Sons William & Thomas ten acres more of my Woodland at Nick’s rock to be taken next the woodland I have before given them this Land to be taken from the portions I have in my above Will given my Sons Ebenezer & Hezekiah –

4thly. I give to my Daughter Ruth one half of my part of the Crops which may be growing on my Land at my decease excepting the Hay.  5th. I give and bequeath to my Son Ebenezer Nelson over and above what I have given him in my above will, my piece of Land within fence joining John Bishop’s Land which lies between the Land Which was Phillips’s and the Land in this Codicil given to my Grandson Lemuel Nelson, this is taken from the portions in my will given to my Sons Hezekiah William & Thomas – Also I give and bequeath to my Son Ebenezer Nelson another quarter part of my Land in addition to what is given him in my above will lying on the easterly side of the Highway extending from said Highway to the Harbour of Plymouth near High Clift between land which was lately Samuel Jackson’s & Cornelius Cobb’s Land this quarter part of said piece of land is taken from the portion given my Son Hezekiah in my above will at that Place and given to my Son Ebenezer which quarter is in addition to the quarter of said piece of land before given him at that place. also I give and bequeath to my said Son Ebenezer the half of my Salt Meadow at Goose point, which is given by my above will to to my Son Hezekiah, this half of said Salt Meadow is in addition to what I have before given him at that place. also I give and bequeath to my Son Ebenezer Nelson my Carts & all my other farming utensils & my Horse and all my Neat Stock (excepting one Cow to my Daughter Ruth) half of said farming utensils and Stock is taken from the portion of my Son Hezekiah & given to my Son Ebenezer and what is given to my Son Ebenezer in this Codicil is in consideration of what he is to do for my Daughter Ruth, and paying all my Legacies and just debts –

6th  I order & direct my said Son Ebenezer Nelson out of his portion of my Estate to pay all my just debts Legacies and also to pay to my Daughter Ruth Nelson all the Corn and Rye annually which he & my said Son Hezekiah Nelson decd was ordered to pay by my above Will, & that he at his own Expence support a Cow for my said Daughter Ruth annually, in the same Manner in which he and my said Son Hezekiah was to have provided for a Cow for her use –   7th. I give and bequeath all the remainder of of that portion of my Estate which I gave to my Son Hezekiah Nelson decd in my above will which is not given as above in this Codicil to be equally divided between the four Children of said Hezekiah Nelson decd that is all I gave my said Son Hezekiah in my above will excepting what I have given as above in this Codicil to them free of Incumbrance & to their Heirs –   Lastly I nominate & appoint my Son Ebenezer Nelson sole Executor to this my Will & Testament & Codicil to said Will, & order him as above to pay all my just debts and Legacies out of his portion of my Estate (and I give him all my debts due) Signed sealed and declared to be a Codicil to my last Will and Testament

in presence of –

        Rossetr. Cotton                                                                                                             Ebenezer Nelson                              (seal)

        John Otis

        Priscilla Cotton

 

Presented for probate on 8 Aug. 1809 by Ebenezer Nelson, the Executor therein named, and proved by Rosseter Cotton and Priscilla Cotton, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Ebenezer Nelson, the before named Executor.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

Rosseter Cotton Esqr. Richard Holmes and William Holmes, Gentlemen, all of Plymouth, were appointed to divide the real estate of Ebenezer Nelson, late of Plymouth, among the heirs according to the will, on 23 Sept. 1809. The division was dated 1 Oct. 1811, and approved on 17 Feb. 1813. Granddaughter Lucy Nelson was by then Lucy Crocker.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 43, p. 14-17, from FHL microfilm #0550902, and Vol. 44, p. 459-461.

 

 

Will of Ebenezer Nelson of Plymouth, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1829) *

In the name of God Amen I Ebenezer Nelson of Plymouth in the County of Plymouth and Commonwealth of Massachusetts Yeoman, being sick but of sound and disposing mind and memory do make and ordain this instrument to be my last Will and Testament,

  In the first place I commend my soul to God who gave it in and through Jesus Christ,

  In the second place after all my just debts and funeral expenses are paid I give and bequeath to my beloved wife Lydia Nelson the use and improvement of my whole Estate both Real & Personal indoors and out of doors including my Furniture, Neat Stock & other Stock, Carts Waggons and other Farming Utensils for her to use and improve for and during her natural life, for her own benefit.

 3d. I give and bequeath to my two sons Elisha Nelson & Charles Nelson all my Neat and other Stock, Waggons, Hay and all other farming utensils, which may remain on my Farm at my Wife’s decease.

  4 After my Wife Lydia’s decease I give and bequeath the whole of my Estate both Real and Personal in Plymouth aforesaid or elsewhere, to be equally divided between my five children Ebenezer Nelson Jun. George Nelson, Elisha Nelson, Charles Nelson & Bathsheba Bradford them their heirs and assigns, excepting as above given to my two sons Elisha & Charles.

Lastly I nominate and appoint my son Elisha Nelson to be Executor to this my last Will & Testament, In testimony whereof I the said Ebenezer Nelson have hereunto set my hand and seal this tenth day of February in the year of our Lord A.D. One thousand eight hundred & twenty nine, Signed sealed and declared to be his last Will and Testament in presence of us –

  Rosseter Cotton                                                                                                                 Ebenezer Nelson                              (seal)

  John Hall

  John K Cobb

 

Presented for probate on 13 Apr. 1829, and proved by Rosseter Cotton and John K. Cobb, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Elisha Nelson of Plymouth, the Executor.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

To the Judge of Probate for the County of Plymouth.

The petition of Elisha Nelson of Plymouth in the County of Plymouth. Respectfully shows that he is interested in the real estate of Ebenezer Nelson late of Plymouth in said County of Plymouth, deceased testate, whose estate is settled or is in a course of settlement in the Probate Court of said County; claiming to hold as devisee and heir at law of said deceased one undivided fifth part or share thereof: as tenant in common and undivided with Bathsheba Bradford wife of Lemuel Bradford and Charles Nelson who each hold one undivided fifth part thereof as devisees and heirs at law of said deceased, Eliza Hathaway wife of George A. Hathaway and Ebenezer Nelson, who each hold one undivided fifteenth part thereof, as devisees and heirs at law of said deceased, Ruth J. Thomas wife of Gamaliel Thomas who holds one undivided tenth part thereof as devisee and heir at law of said deceased; the foregoing being all of Plymouth aforesaid, Mary B. Hastings wife of Francis Hastings of Weston, in the County of Middlesex who holds one undivided fifteenth part thereof, as devisee and heir at law of said deceased, and George Nelson of New Bedford in the County of Bristol who holds one undivided tenth part thereof, as devisee and heir at law of said deceased that he is desirous of holding his said share in severalty. Wherefore your petition prays that the real estate aforesaid of the said Ebenezer Nelson may be divided, and partition made thereof according to law and agreeably to the rights of the parties interested therein.

                                                                                                                                                Elisha Nelson

                We the undersigned, interested in the above estate hereby acknowledge notice of the above petition and assent to the prayer thereof and waive further notice.

                                                                                                                Charles Nelson                     Lemuel Bradford

                                                                                                                Bathsheba Bradford           Geo. A. Hathaway

                                                                                                                Eliza N. Hathaway             Ebenezer Nelson

                                                                                                                Francis Hastings 2d             Mary B. Hastings

                                                                                                                George Nelson                     Ruth J. Thomas

 

   Plymouth Ss. At a Court of Probate holden at Plymouth in and for said County on the second Monday of April A.D. 1852

It appearing that all persons interested have signed the foregoing petition and all and singular the premises being seen and fully understood, it is ordered that partition and division of said estate, be made agreeably to the prayer of said petition; and John Gray and Thomas C Holmes of Kingston, and William Burgess of Plymouth three disinterested persons are hereby appointed commissioners to make said partition and division according to law, and the rights of the parties interested.

                                                                                                                                                Aaron Hobart J. Probate.

The division was ordered among Bathsheba Bradford, Elisha Nelson and Charles Nelson, each one fifth part, Eliza Hathaway, Ebenezer Nelson and Mary B. Hastings each one fifteenth part, and Ruth J. Thomas and George Nelson each one tenth part on 26 Jan. 1852. John Gray, Thomas C. Holmes and William Burgess gave their oath that they would faithfully and impartially execute the duties assigned to them on 12 Mar. 1852. The division was dated 31 May 1852, and approved on the first Tuesday of July 1852.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 66, p. 529-531, from FHL microfilm #0555259, and Vol. 94, p. 285-295.

 

 

Will of John Nelson of Plymouth, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1697) *

The last will and Testament of John Nelson of Plimouth.

I John Nelson of Plimouth in New England being very weak & sick in Body & not knowing how near my Dissolution may be do make and ordain this to be my last Will and Testament hereby Revoking and making Null All former Wills. I Give my Soul to god who gave me this soul And I hope hath Redeemed it to himself by ye precious Blood of Christ And my body to ye Earth by decent Burial in hopes of a Comfortable Resurrection at ye last day my Worldly Estate god hath Lent me my Will is it be disposed as Followeth ~~

I Give to my Son Samuel the Western most part of that land I Bought of Mr Cotton Square off from Haywoods Swamp to Edward Doteys land. Item I Give to my Daughter Mehetabel Dotey That Land which Lyes Eastward & Westward of the house she Lives in as far as my land goes also to my sd Daughter I Give all that part And portion of my meadow of ye Gurnet which I bought of Francis West in Duxborough Also I Give unto her the Yoak of oxen which are now in ye hands of my Son in law John Dotey and a small Bed that is now in their hands which said Particulars now Bequeathed to my said Daughter with what they have Received already I Esteem as good as fifty pounds. Item I Give to my Daughter Joanna The Bed I commonly Lye upon with all Sutable furniture to it.

Item I Give to Anne Tilson forty shillings.

Item All ye the Land I have Either in Plimouth or Duxborough or Elsewhere whether upland or meadow I Give to my Beloved wife Patience Nelson for ye term of Sixteene yeares from ye Day of this Date.

Item All ye Cattel and movables I Give & Bequeath to my said Wife at the End of ye abovementioned Sixteene years: my Will is that my Son Samuel Have all said Lands he allowing to his mother in law the Benefits of ye thirds During her life. my desire is that if Samuel Cary it well to my wife that she allow him a place to Build a house upon when he shall Attaine to ye Age of twenty one years.

Item my will is That my wife Give unto my Daughter Joanna the Sum of ten pounds when she shall come to be Eighteene years of age And if said Joanna dye before that time or without heirs afterwards that then the said ten pounds be paid to my Daughter Mehetabel Dotey.

Item My Will is that my Wife Give unto Samuel two young Buls or two young steeres which they can agree upon

Item my Will is that if my Son Samuel Dye before he Comes of Age that then all my lands which he is to Receive by order of this Will sixteen Years after my decease shall be Equally divided betweene my then Surviving children still Reserving ye Rights & priviledge of thirds to my Wife during her naturall life.

Item I do hereby Constitute & ordaine my Dear Wife Patience Nelson to be sole Executrix of this my last will & Testament Also my desire is That my loving Son in law John Dotey junr & Such other person or persons as my wife shall Desire may be helpfull to her in ye performing this my will In Testimony & for Notification of this to be my last will and Testament according to ye true Intent & meaning I John Nelson being of Disposing mine & Memory Do set to my hand and Seal this Twenty ninth Day of Aprill one thousand Six hundred Ninety and Seven.

Item my Will is that when my son Samuel takes possession of ye Land that he give ten pounds to my Daughter Joanna.

Signed Sealed and Declared to be                                                                                    John Nelson                                       (seal)

the last will & Testament of

ye Testator above named

In presence of

John Cotton

John Bradford

Thomas Faunce

 

Before Wm Bradford Esqr Judge

Mr John Cotton John Bradford and Thomas Faunce The Witnesses here named made oath in Plymouth ye 16th day of June 1697 that they were present and saw and heard John Nelson above named Sign & seal & Declare ye above Written to be his last will & Testament & that to ye best of their Judgment he was of Sound mind & memory when he so did.

Attest Saml Sprague Registr

 

Patience Nelson, the Executrix, was granted administration of her husband’s estate on 16 June 1697.

 

An Inventory of ye Estate of John Nelson Late of Plimouth deceased taken & Apprised by us whose names are under Written on ye 18th of May 1697

[not totaled].

Thomas Faunce

Ephraim Morton

Nathanael Wood

 

Patience Nelson, the Executrix, gave her oath to the inventory on 16 June 1697.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 1, p. 270-271.

 

 

Will of William Nelson of Middleborough, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1717/18)

In The name of God amen. This Twentieth day of March One Thousand Seven hundread and Seventeen. I William Nelson of the Town of Middleborough in the County of Plymouth in New England being Sick & weak in Body but of perfect mind and memory thanks be to God, being therefore Sencible of my mortality, do therefore make this My last Will & Testament that is to Say first and principally I give and recomend my Soul into the hands of God that gave it, and my body to the earth to be decently Buried at the discretion of my executor. And as Touching my worldly estate I Give, demise & dispose of the same in manner & form following Imprimis I give to my Son Thomas Nelson my Gun’s, and all my Iron Tools, and my wearing Clothing and my great Bible to him & his dispose. and I Give to my wife Ruth Nelson the one half of all my moveable Estate to her & her dispose and the other half of my moveable Estate after all my debts are paid out of the same to be Equally divided amongst my daughters namely Marcy Fuller Mary Thomas Martha Irish Anna Smith and Ruth Thomas. And I Give to my son Thomas Nelson abovesd. all my Lands housing meadows and swamps lying and being in the Tonwship of Middleborough abovesd. And my Will is that my Sd. Son do take full & Suitable Care of his mother Ruth Nelson my wife as abovesd. for all Conveniences for her Comfort during the term of her natural life and that he also pay to each of my daughters above mentioned the sum of Twenty two pound, which my will is that my Son Thomas Shall be Obliged to pay within the space of three years after my decease. And I do also Constitute ordain and Appoint my sd. Son Thomas Nelson my sole executor to this my last Will and Testament. In Witness hereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal the day and year abovewritten

Signed Sealed published and declared                                                                            The marke of

In the presence of us. ~                                                                                                       William  N  Nelson                              (seal)

Joshua Morss, Samuel Pratt  John Bennet Junr.

 

Proved by Joshua Morss and John Bennet, two of the witnesses, on 11 Apr. 1718, and by Samuel Pratt, the other witness, on 1 May 1718.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 4, p. 62-63, from FHL microfilm #0550510.

 

 

Will of William Nelson of Middleborough, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1806) *

In the Name of God amen I William Nelson of Middleborough in the County of Plymouth & Commonwealth of Massachusetts Clerk, being weak of Body Yet of sound & disposing Mind & Memory, blessed be God for the same, considering the Mortality of the Body that it is appointed for all Men once to die do make and ordain this my last Will and Testament in the manner following viz –

First I give and bequeath to my well beloved wife Hannah her legal right of Dower as law provides out of my Real Estate & out of my personal Estate I give her all my indoor Moveables or Household Furniture as her own property –

        I give and bequeath to my Youngest Son Morgan Nelson about one half of my Farm on Assawampsett Neck in said Middleborough, being the Farm which I hold by Deed under hand & Seal of Benjamin Ward & Ephraim Ward bearing date the twentieth day of March in the Year of our Lord Eighteen hundred & six & is that part of said Farm or Lands which lies on the southerly side of the following dividing Lines, viz Beginning at a Stake & heap of Stones standing on the Easterly side of the postroad and at the southerly side of the little stony pasture so called, & at the place where the Fence comes up to said Road thence ranging about an easterly course to the westerly end of a half wall thence easterly on said Wall & continue on the same Course untill it strikes Assawampsett Pond, then beginning again on the Westerly side of said post road nigh the southerly side of my orchard thence ranging a westerly course as the orchard Wall now stands to the Head of said Wall nigh the Barn; thence running a Westerly Course on a Straight Line to Long Pond so as to leave five Acres more on the northerly side of said dividing Line on the Westerly side of said Road, than is contained on the South side thereof to have & to hold to him, his Heirs and Assigns forever. –

        I give and bequeath to Samuel Nelson 2d. my eldest Son all that my aforesaid Farm & tract of Land on Assawampsett Neck which lies on the northerly side of that part or half thereof as above given to my Youngest Son together with the Buildings thereon And also my Lot of Land & Buildings by the meeting house on the Westerly shore of Assawampsett Pond, which I hold by Deed under hand & Seal of Abiel Washburn, And also an undivided right in a Tract of Cedar Swamp being part of the thirteenth Lot of Cedar Swamp in the sixteen shilling purchase and lies nigh the westerly side of Long Pond in said Middleborough & is the same which I hold by the aforesaid Deed under hand & Seal of Benjamin Ward & Ephraim Ward to have & to hold to him his Heirs & assigns forever. Also I give to him my said Son Samuel my Desk & Book Case not withstanding the afore bequest to my said Wife I further give & bequeath to my said Son Samuel all my personal Estate which is not herein otherways disposed of –

        I give and bequeath to my daughter Sarah Nelson six hundred dollars the whole of which is to be paid at the time when my Son Morgan arrives to the age of twenty one Years, the one half there of by my said Son Samuel & the other half by my said Son Morgan – And I further provide that my said Daughter shall have a right to live with my said son Samuel and have what necessary suport she needs untill the time of the above payments to her –

I hereby provide that a passing way through that Land, which I have herein before given to my Son Morgan, shall be reserved to improve a certain piece of Land as given in a Deed from my Honoured Father to my Brother Amos –

  I also provide that my said Son Samuel shall have a right to take what fire wood he shall stand in need of from the Lands Which is herein given to my said Son Morgan taking first the wood that is now fallen & then of the standing wood that is not fit for timber, and also to have the Improvement of the improved Land given as aforesaid to the said Morgan with privileges of cutting Timber to repair the fences thereon, all of which said priviliges of Wood & Improvements are to continue to the said Samuel untill the time when Morgan arrives to the Age of twenty one Years & no longer –

  I hereby provide & order that all my just debts & funeral Charges shall be paid by my said Son Samuel out of that part of my Estate which is herein given to him my said Son Samuel. –

        And it is my Will that the Dower which is herein given to my said Wife shall be taken out of the Real Estate of each of my said sons in proportion to the amount of what is herein given respectively to them. –

        And I do hereby constitute & appoint my said Son Samuel to be Executor to this my last Will & Testament thus hoping that this my last Will & Testament will be carefully kept & performed according to the true Intent and Meaning thereof I commit my Soul to the hands of God who gave it & my Body to the Dust to a decent Burial. – In Testimony whereof I hereto set my hand & Seal this third day of April in the Year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred & six

  Signed sealed & declared by the said William Nelson

  to be his last Will & Testament in presence of us.                                                                      his

                Thomas Nelson                                                                                                    William  X  Nelson                              (seal)

                Samuel Pickens                                                                                                                    Mark

                Nehemh. Bennet

 

Presented for probate on 5 June 1806 by Samuel Nelson, the Executor therein named, and proved by Samuel Pickens and Nehemiah Bennet Esqr., two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Samuel Nelson, the before named Executor.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 40, p. 456-457, from FHL microfilm #0550901.

 

 

Will of William Nelson of Plymouth, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1820) *

In the name of God amen I William Nelson of Plymouth in the County of Plymouth Trader, being of sound & disposing Mind & Memory do make & ordain this to be my last Will & Testament— First of all I commend my Soul to the Mercy of God that gave it, & my Body to a decent Funeral humbly praying for a glorious Resurrection, through Jesus Christ and as to my worldly Estate I give & bequeath the same in manner following. —

                First I give & bequeath to my beloved Wife Bathsheba all & the whole of my household Furniture including my Beds Bedding &c – Also I give & bequeath to my said beloved Wife my Cow & the right of keeping her in my Barn the next Winder & Spring & supporting her on my Hay the Season – Also I give & bequeath to my said Wife my Hogs or Shotes in my Stye; also I give and bequeath to my said Wife my two Notes of hand with the money due thereon, one of said Notes is given to me by Ezra Lucas for $35.04 dated Feby. 15th. 1820 the other note is given me by Josiah Dimon & is for $39.83 dated March 23d. 1814. Also I give & bequeath to my said Wife the Sum of one hundred Dollars to be paid her on demand after my decease by my Executors hereafter named. Also I give & bequeath to my said Wife the use & improvement during her Life, of that half of my Pew in the meeting house of the third precinct in Plymouth aforesaid on the lower Floor, which she may choose to improve. also I give & bequeath to my said beloved Wife Bathsheba the Sum of three hundred Dollars a Year for & during the term of her natural Life, said Sum to be paid her in two equal Payments, that is one hundred & fifty Dollars to be paid her in six months after my decease & one hundred & fifty Dollars in one year after my decease, & the same Sum of one hundred & fifty Dollars to be paid her semi-annually during the Term of her natural Life, by my Children & Heirs hereafter named; And my whole real Estate I make holden & responsible for the payment of said Bequest to my said Wife of said three hundred Dollars annually & if said Bequest is not paid as aforesaid, then I order & by this my Last Will Impower my said Wife to annually & every year to sell so much of my real Estate at private or public sale, as will annually make good to her said three hundred Dollars annually or every year during her Life. —

                2d.   I give & bequeath to my two Children William Nelson junr & Polly Lothrop Harlow wife of Jesse Harlow the whole of my personal Estate to be equally divided between them excepting that part thereof, which I have given to my Wife, they my said Children paying all my just Debts. I also give & bequeath to my above named two Children, the whole of my real Estate in Plymouth aforesaid or elsewhere except the Improvement of the half Pew given my Wife – This Bequest of my real Estate I bequeath to my two Children above named on the express condition that my said two Children or their Heirs pay to my said Wife as within stated the Sum of three hundred Dollars annually in two equal payments as is within mentioned, and if my Children do not pay the same annually as within directed, my said Wife is as within stated to sell such part of said real Estate as will annually make the Deficiency good. —

                Lastly I do constitute & appoint my Son William Nelson junr & my Son-in-Law Jesse Harlow to be Executors to this my last will & Testament.—

                In Testimony whereof I the said William Nelson have hereunto set my hand & seal this 15th day of August AD one thousand eight hundred & twenty—

Signed sealed & declared to be his last Will

& Testament in presence of us.

                Rosseter Cotton                                                                                                   Wim Nelson                         (seal)

                Henry Jackson

                Ebenezer Nelson junr.

 

Presented for probate on 16 Oct. 1820 by William Nelson and Jesse Harlow, the Executors therein named, and proved by Henry Jackson and Ebenezer Nelson junr, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to William Nelson and Jesse Harlow, the before named Executors.

 

Rosseter Cotton, Esq., John Harlow 2d, and Henry Jackson, all of Plymouth, were appointed to appraise the Estate of William Nelson, late of Plymouth, Merchant, on 16 Oct. 1820. The Inventory of the Estate of William Nelson, late of Plymouth, was appraised on 3 Nov. 1820, and totaled $9842.00, including his real estate valued at $5016, 2/3 of the Schooner William valued at $1260, ½ of the Schooner Neptune valued at $400, ½ of the Schooner Drake valued at $250, ½ of the Schooner Friendship valued at $150, and ½ of the Sloop Sophronia valued at $800, plus fish, lumber, corn, molasses, lime, salt, vinegar, etc. William Nelson and Jesse Harlow, the Executors, gave their oaths to the inventory on 19 Feb. 1820.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 53, pp. 152-154, 273-275, from FHL microfilm #0550907.

 

 

Will of Jabez Newland of Plympton, Plymouth County, Massachusetts Bay (1781) *

In the Name of God Amen – The twentieth day of January one thousand Seven Hundred and Eighty one, I Jabez Newland of Plymton in the County of Plymouth in New England, yeoman, being in health of body and of perfect mind and memory thanks be to God therefor, and Calling to mind the mortality of my body and knowing that it is appointed for all men once to die, do make & ordain this my Last will and testament vizt, Principally and first of all Give and Recommend my Soul unto the hands of God that Gave it hoping through the merits of Christs death and Suffering, to Recieve the forgiveness of all my sins – and my body unto the Earth to be decently buried at the discretion of my Executor hereafter named; and as touching such worldly Estate as it hath pleased God to bless me with in this Life; I Give and dispose of in the following manner and form~

Item – I Give and bequeath unto my sister Keturah Perce deceased, her Heirs all my wearing apparell.

Item – I Give and bequeath unto my well beloved wife Sarah, the improvement of all my Real Estate as Long as She Remains my widow, and also Give and bequeath unto my well beloved wife & to her Heirs, a piece of Land Lying between Mr. Shearman’s & Doctr. Dear’s Land & also about two acres of Land Lying by Jedediah Samson’s & also my two pieces of meadow Lying upon winnetuxet River together with all my moveable Estate She paying all my just debts I owe to any person whatever and funeral Charges. –

Item – I Give and bequeath unto Jabez Newland Cushman all my Real Estate that I have not otherwise disposed of

  And Lastly I Constitute & appoint my beloved wife Sarah Newland to be the Sole Executor on this my Last will & testament, and I do hereby utterly disallow and Revoke all wills by me before made Ratifying and Confirming this & no other to be my Last will & testament – In witness whereof I have hereunto Set my hand and Seal the day and year above written

Signed, Sealed Published & delivered by the said

Jabez Newland as his Last will & testament in                                                             Jabez Newland                                 (seal)

presence of us the Subscribers ~

                Samuel Drew

                Sarah Cushman

                Isaiah Cushman

 

Presented for probate on 7 May 1787 by Sarah Newland, the Executrix therein named, and proved by Samuel Drew and Isaiah Cushman, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Sarah Newland, the before named Executrix, with Isaiah Cushman, yeoman, and Elijah Bisbe, Gentm, both of Plymton, as sureties.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 30, p. 141-143, from FHL microfilm #0550716.

 

 

Will of Sarah Newland of Plympton, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1788) *

In the name of God Amen — I Sarah Newland of Plymton in the county of Plymouth & Commonwealth of Massachusetts in New England midwife, being weak in body but of perfect mind & memory thanks be given to God therefor, calling unto mind the mortality of my body, and knowing that it is appointed for all men once to die, do make & ordain this my Last will & testament & desire it may be recieved by all as such, that is to say, principally & first of all I Give & recommend my soul into ye hands of God that gave it, and my body I recommend to the earth, to be buried in decent christian burial at the discretion of my Executor hereafter named, nothing doubting but at the general resurrection I shall recieve the same again, by the mighty power of God, and as touching such worldly estate wherewith it hath pleased God to bless me in this life, I Give demise and dispose of the same in the following manner & form

Imprimis — I Give & bequeath to the Reverend John Staples & Hannah Gusha – Zerviah Williams – Ruth Soper – Sarah Wright widow to Adam Wright Late of Plymton deceased – Sarah Cushman, the wife of Isaiah Cushman – Deborah Cushman widow to Josiah Cushman Late of Plymton deceased – Sarah Samson, Lydia Holmes the wife of Francis Holmes and to Jeremiah Samson –and to their heirs & assigns all my wearing apparell in equal division amongst all the above named persons

Item—I Give to my kinsman Jabez Newland Cushman & to his heirs & assigns forever a certain piece of fresh meadow Lying & being on winnetuxet river so called in Plymton being all that meadow that my beloved husband Jabez Newland Late of Plymton deceased bought that was Thomas Southworth Howlands of Plymouth and given to me by my beloved husband in his Last will & testament, I also give to the said Jabez Newland Cushman & to his heirs one Cow & half my sheep together with a good feather bed under bed, bedstead, bed-cord & furniture for said bed and one comon chest

Item—I Give to Rebecca Perkins Daughter to Josiah Perkins of Middleborough and to her heirs & assigns forever, one Cow & half my sheep, two feather beds, under beds, bedsteads, bed cords & furniture for said beds, and also one suit of Curtains, a case of draws, one common chest, a square table, one great chair & five small ones, together with the value of three pounds to be delivered to her at my decease in pewter or other houshold furniture, as she shall choose, and also one great spinning and onefoot wheel

all the rest and residue of all my estate both real, personal or mixed after paying all my just debts & funeral charges, and not before disposed of, in this my Last will & testament, I Give & bequeath to my kindred above named — the Revd. John Staples –Hannah Gusha–Zerviah Williams Ruth Soper– Sarah Wright– Sarah Samson–Lydia Holmes & Jeremiah Samson, and to their heirs & assigns forever, in equal division or shares

Lastly – I do constitute make & ordain my faithful & trusty friend Elijah Bisbee junr my sole executor of this my Last will & testament, & do hereby utterly disallow, revoke & disannul, all & every other former will testament, Legacies, bequeaths & executors by me in any way, before named willed & bequeathed, ratifying & confirming this and no other to be my Last will & testament — In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand & seal this nineteenth day of November in the year of our Lord one thousand, seven hundred & eighty & eight

Signed, Sealed, Published Pronounced &                                                                                her

declared by the sd. Sarah Newland                                                                                   Sarah  X  Newland                              (seal)

as her Last will & testament, in the                                                                                           mark

presence of us the subscribers

                Ebenezer Soule

                Nathan Fobes

                Jabez N Cushman

 

Presented for probate on 6 Sept. 1792 by Elijah Bisbe junr., the executor, and proved by Ebenezer Soule and Jabez N. Cushman, two of the witnesses.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 33, p. 161-162, from FHL microfilm #0550717.

 

 

Will of Nicholas Nicholson of Caneadea, Allegany County, New York (1852) *

The last will and testament of Nicholas Nicholson

I Nicholas Nicholson of the town of Yorkshire in the county of Cattaraugus Do make and ordain this my last will & testament in manner following that is to say

First I order and direct that all my just debts & funeral charges be paid out of my personal estate as soon as convenient after my decease by my executors herein after named

Second After the payment of such debts & funeral charges I give bequeath and devise the rest residue and remainder of my estate real & personal as follows

I give bequeath and devise the rest residue and remainder of my estate real and personal as follows

I give devise and bequeath the same to my six grand children to wit Harriet Baskins Hannah Baskins Sarah Baskins & Rachel Baskins children of my daughter Sally Baskin’s widow of John J. Baskins deceased and to Edward James Nicholson & Robert Nicholson Sons of my son Abel S. Nicholson to be divided between the said Six grand children Share and Share alike to have and to hold to them their heir’s and assigns forever as tenants in common

Third I do hereby constitute and appoint my three Sons Edward Nicholson James H. Nicholson and Abel S. Nicholson the executors of this my last will and testament hereby revoking all former and other wills by me at any time heretofore made

In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand & Seal the 31st day of January 1852.

                                                                                                                                                Nicholas Nicholson                         (seal)

Signed Sealed published and declared by the above named Nicholas Nicholson to be his last will & testament in presence of us who have hereunto Subscribed our names as witnesses thereto in the presence and at the request of the testator & in the presence of each other

                                                                                                                                                W G Angel Angelica N.Y.

                                                                                                                                                William Brown Belfast N.Y.

 

Proved by William G. Angel of the town of Angelica in the county of Allegany being duly Sworn & examine’d doth depose and say that he this deponent was well acquainted with Nicholas Nicholson late of the town of Caneadea in the County of Allegany deceased that this deponent was present as witness and did see the said Nicholas Nicholson Subscribe at the end thereof, the instrument now produced and shown to this deponent purporting to be the last will and testament of the said deceased bearing date the thirty first day of January in the year of our Lord one Thousand eight hundred and fifty two that the said testator at the same time declared the instrument so produced Subscribed by him to be his last will and testament.

                that thereupon this deponent and William Bronson Subscribed their names at the end thereof as witnesses thereto at the request of the testator in his presence and that the said testator at the time of executing and publishing the said last will and testament was of full age and sound mind and memory not under restraint and was in all respects competent to make a last will and testament.                                                                                                             W. G. Angel

                                                                                Sworn and Subscribed this 25th day of May 1757 before me John G. Collins, Surrogate

 

Proved by William Brown of the town of Belfast in the county of Allegany and by Samuel C. Wilson of the town of Belfast also on 25 May 1757.

 

I Abel S. Nicholson of the town of Caneadea in the county of Allegany one of the executors named in and by the last will & testament of Nicholas Nicholson late of the Said town do hereby renounce the Said appointment and all right & claim to letters testamentary of the Said last will or to act as executor thereof & pray the Surrogate of the County of Allegany to accept & record this my renunciation   Dated this 25. day of May A D 1857

                                                                                                                                                A. S. Nicholson

 

Letters Testamentary on the estate of Nicholas Nicholson were granted to Edward Nicholson and James H. Nicholson on 25 May 1857.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Allegany County Probate Wills Vol. 4, p. 39-41, from FHL microfilm #0594228, and Letters Testamentary Vol. 2, p. 42.

 

 

Will of John Noyes of Abington, Plymouth County, Massachusetts Bay (1786) *

  In the name of God Amen – I, John Noyes of Abington in the County of Plymouth in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, blacksmith, being advanced in age but in the enjoyment of my natural powers (blessed be God therefor) knowing it is appointed to all men once to die do make & ordain this my Last will & testament in manner and form following – vizt. principally & first of all I do recommend my soul into the hands of God my Creator, hoping & trusting in the merits of Jesus Christ my saviour for the pardon of my sins and for eternal Life, my body I recommend to the dust to be decently buried at the discretion of my Executor hereafter named, as to my worldly Estate which a kind providence has favoured me with I Give & dispose of in manner & form following – vizt

Item – I Give to my eldest son John Noyes five shillings to be paid by my Executor after my decease

Item – I Give to my son Samuel Noyes five shillings to be paid by my Executor after my decease

Item – I Give to my son Eliab Noyes his heirs & assigns forever the sum of sixty pounds together with my shop, anvill, bellows, Cick-horn vise and all my small tools that belong to the shop for service he has done me, and I do hereby ordain & appoint my son Eliab Noyes abovesaid to be the sole Executor of this my Last will & testament

Item – I Give to my Eldest Daughter Molly Fullerton her heirs and assigns forever the sum of fourteen pounds to be paid by my Executor in one year after my decease

Item – I Give to my Daughter Betty Hearsey, her heirs & assigns forever the sum of twelve pounds to be paid by my Executor in two years after my decease

Item – I Give to my Daughter Jane Hearsey her heirs & assigns forever – the sum of twelve pounds, to be paid my Executor in three years after my decease

Item – I Give to my Daughter Judith Thomson her heirs and assigns forever the sum of Eighteen pounds, to be paid by my Executor in one year after my decease

Item – I Give to my Grandson Moses Noyes son of Moses Noyes deceased, to him and his heirs forever, sixteen acres of Land – Lying in Bridgwater in the county abovesaid, it being half of a Lot of Land I bought of Daniel Alden Esqr. and the westerly side of said Lot, bounded westerly, partly on James Edsons Land and partly on the heirs of Nathan Whitman deceased on the south end on Deacon Eleazer Whitman’s Land and on the east side & north end on my own Land – also I Give to my Grandson Moses Noyes abovesaid about ten acres of Land to him & his heirs forever Lying in the town of Abington abovesaid bounded easterly on Lt. John Fullertons Land, northerly on Isaac Pinell’s junr. Land westerly on Ezekiel Reeds Land and southerly on the abovesaid sixteen acres, Furthermore I Give to my Grandson Moses Noyes abovesaid the sum of thirteen pounds six shillings & eight pence to be paid by my Executor when he shall arrive to the age of twenty one years, but if the sd. Moses shall die before he arrives to the age of twenty one years or have heirs Lawfully begotten of his body, my will is that my son Eliab Noyes & his four sisters vizt. Molly Fullerton - Betty Hearsey - Jane Hearsey & Judith Thomson & their heirs shall have what I have given my Grandson Moses Noyes abovesaid equally divided between them – Also my will is that whatsoever of my Estate remains undisposed of after my just debts Legacies and funeral charges are paid, be equally divided between my son Eliab Noyes & my Grandson Moses Noyes, and my four Daughters vizt. Molly Fullerton, Betty Hearsay - Jane Hearsey & Judith Thomson - & I do hereby make void and of no effect all & every other will or wills heretofore made by me whether by word or writing Ratifying & confirming, this to be my Last will and testament.— In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal, Dated at Abington the fifteenth day of September, A D, 1786~

Signed, sealed, & declared by the testator                                                                      John Noyes                                        (seal)

to be his Last will & testament, in presence

of us the subscribers

                Ebenezer Porter

                Ephraim Noyes

                Josiah Shaw

 

Presented for probate on 5 March 1793 by Eliab Noyes, the Executor therein named, and proved by Ebenezer Porter and Ephraim Noyes, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Eliab Noyes, the before named Executor.

 

Joseph Pool yeoman, Seth Porter yeoman, and Ephraim Noyes Gentm, all of Abington, were appointed to appraise the estate of John Noyes, late of Abington, blacksmith, on 5 Mar. 1793. The inventory, not dated, totaled £213.9.7, including his real estate valued at £150.18. Eliab Noyes, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 15 Aug. 1793.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 33, pp. 291-293, 405, from FHL microfilm #0550717.

 

 

Will of Samuel James Nutter of Kingston, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1874) *

Be it remembered that I Samuel James Nutter of Kingston in the County of Plymouth, State of Massachusetts, being of sound and disposing mind and memory, do make publish and declare this my last will and testament in manner following, viz.

1st. After the payment of all my just debts and funeral expenses, and a legacy of five dollars to my daughter Mercy Ann Pratt, and the provision the Law requires for the support of my beloved wife, Mercy Nutter, I give and bequeath to my grand-son Samuel W. Nutter all the rest and residue of my estate, both real & personal of every name & and nature, the same to be at his sole disposal. This I do in consideration of his faithful services for many years, and with the understanding that he shall assist me through (with what I anticipate will be short) of my earthly existence.

2d. I hereby appoint my said grand son Samuel W. Nutter sole executor of this my last will and testament, hereby revoking and declaring void all former wills by me at any times heretofore made.

        In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this eleventh day of November A.D. 1874.

                                                                                                 his

                                                                                     Saml.  X  J. Nutter                                                                         (seal)

                                                                                                mark

Signed, sealed, published and declared by said Samuel J. Nutter as and for his last will and testament in presence of us, who in his presence and in presence of each other have hereunto set our names as witnesses.

Joseph Stetson.   George B. Bradford.  Hannah Stetson.

 

To the Honorable the Judge of the Probate Court in and for the County of Plymouth.

Respectfully represents Mercy Nutter, that she is the widow of Samuel J. Nutter late of Kingston in said County of Plymouth, whose will has been proved and allowed in said Court, that there is a provision made for me in said Will, and that I Mercy Nutter aforesaid, do hereby waive the provision made for me in said Will and shall claim such portions of his real and personal estate as I should have been entitled to, if my said husband had died intestate.

  Dated the eleventh day of December A.D. 1876.

                                                                                                Mercy Nutter

                                                                                                by her Attorney I. F. Atwood

Filed Dec. 11. 1876.

 

Ichabod F. Atwood petitioned that he be appointed as special administrator of the estate of Samuel J. Nutter, late of Kingston, on 26 Dec. 1876, by reason of an appeal from the decree granting letters of administration, with Winslow Pratt, of Middleborough, as surety.

 

Presented for probate on the fourth Monday of May, 1877, by Samuel W. Nutter, of Kingston, with Green Evans and E. Elbridge Atwood, of Kingston, as sureties. Letters Testamentary were granted to Samuel W. Nutter, of Kingston, on 28 May 1877.

 

Mercy Nutter, widow of Samuel J. Nutter, petitioned for her dower from the estate of Samuel J. Nutter on the fourth Monday of Aug. 1877, and John F. Holmes, Richard E. Holmes, and Eleazer Faunce, of Kingston, were appointed to set off the dower to her on 27 Aug. 1877.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 142, p. 243, from FHL microfilm #0556649, Vol. 142, p. 309, Vol. 119, p. 482, Vol. 133, p. 439, and Vol. 113, p. 226.

 

 

Will of Jabez Nye of Plympton, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1745) *

In the Name of God amen: Thee Nineteenth day of October 1745.

I Jabez Nye of Plimton in the County of Plimouth Husbandman being very weak in body but of perfect Mind & memory, Thanks be Give unto God: Therefore Calling to mind the mortallity of my body and knowing that it is appointed to all men once to die do make and ordain this my Last Will that is to say Principally & first of all I Give & Recommend my Soul into the Hands of God that gave it, and my body to the Earth, to be buried in Decent Christian Burial at the Discretion of my Executor here after Named,

And as touching Such worldly Estate wherewith it has pleased God to bless me in this life (after my Just Debts are paid I Give, devise and bequeath the same both Real & personal, whatsoever and wheresoever, in possession or Reversition to my well Beloved son Bonum Nye His heirs and assigns he the sd. Bonum paying to my well beloved daughter Sarah the wife of Zechariah Marquin forty pounds old tenour in three years after my Decease – And I do here likewise Constitute make & ordain him my Son Bonum Nye Sole Executor of this my Last will & Testament, and I do hereby Utterly disallow revoke & disanull all and every other former Testaments or Will by me made Ratyfieing and Confirming this and no Other to be my last Will and Testament  In Witness whereof I have hereunto Set my hand and Seal the day & year abovewritten

Signed Sealed published Pronounced &

Declared by the sd. Jabez Nye as his                                                                                                Jabez Nye                           (seal)

Last Will & Testament In Presence

of us the Subscribers –

Joseph Bridgham

Elkanah Lucas

Bethiah  X  Shurtleff

 

Probated on 19 Dec. 1745, and proved by Joseph Bridgham, Elkanah Lucas and Bethiah Shurtleff, the witnesses. Administration granted to Bonum Nye of Plimton on 19 Dec. 1745.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 10, p. 67-68, from FHL microfilm #0551535.

 

 

Will of Nathan Nye of Randolph, Orange County, Vermont (1846) *

                In the name of God – Amen I Nathan Nye of Randolph Orange County and State of Vermont considering the uncertainty of this mortal life and being of Sound and perfect mind and memory blessed be almighty God for the Same do make and publich this my last will and testament in manner following after all my Just debts are paid I give and bequeath unto my four grand children viz Nathan N. Orcutt Royal Orcutt Milison Orcutt Jacob Orcutt Children of Parley Orcutt and my daughter remaining out of the property given up hereafter mentioned a good and complete maintenance of every thing that She my daughter Abigail Orcutt may nead for her good Support in Sickness and health and clothing &c during her Said Abigail’ my daughters natural life and besides the above mentioned Support to pay her in cash twenty dollars yearly during her life then by performing in full as above mentioned I give as above to the Said fore mentioned grandchildren all the farm and lands in Randolph Orange County and State aforesaid together with all the Stock of cattle Sheeps hogs &c of every kind likewise all the farming toals and all the debts, claims, and demands which I may have due me at my decease I order the whole of the said above mentioned property to be equally divided among the Said forementioned Grand children Should any one of them be arving me at my decease more than his equal Share of said property the overplus of his Share if any to be equally divided among the others so as to make them all equal, hereby revoking all former wills by me made and I hereby appoint Royal Orcutt my grandson Sole executor of this my last will and testament

In witness whereof I have hereunto Set my hand and Seal this 12th day of march 1846  Signed Sealed and published and declared by the above mentiond testator to be his last will and testament In presents of us who have hereunto Subscribed Our names as witnesses in presents of the testator and of each other

                Jacob Davis                                                                                                          Nathan Nye                                        (seal)

                Daniel Davis

                A J Davis

 

Royal Orcutt, of Randolph, posted bond as Executor of the will of Nathan Nye, late of Randolph, on 9 Oct. 1847, with Perley Orcutt, of Randolph, as surety.

 

Loren Griswold and Freeman Williams, Esquires, both of Randolph, were appointed to appraise the estate of Nathan Nye, late of Randolph, on 9 Oct. 1847. The inventory was dated 25 Oct. 1847, his real estate valued at $2650, and his personal estate totaled $50.37.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Randolph District, Vermont, Probate Folder #67, image 450-455, online at www.FamilySearch.org.

 

 

Will of Tobias Oakman of Marshfield, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1745) *

In the Name of God Amen I Tobias Oakman of Marshfield in the County of plimouth in New England yeoman being aged and under Infirmytes But of Sound mind Doe make this my Last Will and Testement fors I Recomend my Soul to god that gave it and my body to the Earth to a Decent burail at ye Discretion of my Execr. hereafter named and Touching Such Worldy Goods and Estate as I am ye owner of I give the Same in maner following that is to Say —

Impr I give and bequeath unto my Son Edward Oakman my Carte and Wheels and all my Husbandry Tools and Implements and one half of my Stock of Cattle and my Negro man Named Jack ~~

Item I give and Bequeath unto my Grand Sons Samul Oakman and tobias Oakman the Sone of my Son Saml. Deceasd all my Land at Spaniznck River both upland and medow with my Comon Right thereto belonging and also all my Land in ye Eastern part in New England to be Equaly Divided betwext them and to be to their heirs and assigns for Ever ~

Item I give to my Sd Grandson Tobias his heirs and assigns forever my Lot of Land in Marshfield aforesd near Benja thomases being the third Lot in ye Second Division of Marchfeld Comons and also apiece of Salt marsh in said Marchfield Which I have in parteneship with ye Tildens Called Crookers meddo my part being about four or five acres more or Less ~

Item I give to my Grand Son Jeddediah Eames Twenty pounds in Bills of Credite of the Old Tener to be paid by my Execr within Two years after my Decease

Item – I give and bequeath unto my Six Daughters Faith Foster Eliza Ford Sarah Randall Susannah Collamer Mary Shairman and Marcy Hamilton and to thair heairs and assigns for Ever all the rest of my Estate both reail and personal of Every Sort and kind and Whairsoever Lying and Being to be Equely Divided betwext them my Just Debts and funeral Charges and Legeses aforesd being first paid out of the Same —

Lastly I doe hereby appoint my sd Son Edward to be the Sole Execr of this my will in wittness Whaireof I have herunto Sett my hand and Seal March the 21 1745 –

                                                                                                                                                                                                Tobias  T  Oakeman  (seal)

Sined Sealed pubeshed and Declaired                                                                                                                                    his marke

by ye sd Tobias Oakman to be his Last Will and

Testement in presents – of ~

William Cushing

Mary Cushing

Hannah phillips

Mary Cushing Junr.

 

Probated on 26 July 1750, and proved by Willm Cushing, Mary Cushing and Mary Cushing Junr.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 12, p. 90, from FHL microfilm #0551539.

 

 

Nuncupative Will of Thomas Oldham of Scituate, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1735) *

A verbal or nuncupative Will made by Thomas Oldham of Scittuate in ye County of Plymouth Deceast on Wednesday the twenty third Day of July anno Domini-1735. In the Hearing & Presence of us the Subscribers We Samuel Tilden Jur. Rebekah Lapham & Elizabeth Taylor all of Marshfield in the County of Plymo aforesaid being at ye House of Thomas Oldham Above named on ye Day abovesd I Samuel Tilden being desired by on[e] of sd Oldham’s Sisters to ask him whether he did not intend to Give Mercy Thomas his House keeper Something out of his Estate Besides her Wages he answered Yes and Said He clear up my Throat & then He Speak Rebekah Lapham & Elizabeth Taylor being called & bid us take Notice that he gave Twenty Pounds to Mercy Thomas out of his Estate & bid them take notice it is besides her Wages. We Rebekah Lapham & Elizabeth Taylor being at ye House of Thomas Oldham’s Abovenamed In Company with Samuel Tilden junr. & sd Oldham sd in our Hearing he would give to Mercy Thomas his House keeper Twenty Pounds out of his Estate besides her Wages & lookt on us & bid us take notice and We Saw nor heard nothing to the Contrary but that he was of a Disposing Mind. In Testimony whereof We have hereunto Set Our Hands & Seals this twenty eight Day of July Anno Domini-1735—           

                                                                                                                                                Samuel Tilden ju.

                                                                                                                                                Rebekah Lapham

                                                                                                                                                Elizabeth Taylor

 

Mr. Joseph Hatch, Mr. Israel Hatch junr., & Mr. Samuel Lapham, all of Scittuate, were appointed to appraise the estate of Thomas Oldham, late of Scittuate, on 1 Aug. 1735. The Inventory of the Estate of Thomas Oldham, late of Scittuate, not dated, totaled £870.19.8, including his house & land on the Westerly side of the Way valued at £690, and 16 acres of woodland valued at £48. Josiah Wormall, the administrator, gave his oath to the inventory on 5 Jan. 1735[/6].

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 7, pp. 155, 167-168, from FHL microfilm #0550513.

 

 

Will of Barnabas Otis of Plymouth, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1844) *

                                                                In the name of God – Amen –

        I Barnabas Otis of Plymouth in the County of Plymouth, being of sound and disposing mind and memory do make and publish this my last Will and testament. –

        I give devise and bequeath to my grandsons Henry O Williams and Augustus Williams the sum of one dollar each.

        As to the residue of all the property real personal or mixed of which I shall die seized and possessed, or to which I shall be entitled at the time of my decease, I devise, bequeath and dispose thereof in the following manner to wit.

                Two Thirds of said Property I give devise and bequeath to Harriet Carver wife of Chandler Carver of said Plymouth, and the remaining third I give devise and bequeath to Adeline A. Totman of said Plymouth.

                Provided however that in case the said Chandler Carver shall after my decease present any account against my estate for my board in his family during my life, then the two thirds above give to his wife Harriet, are hereby bequeathed and devised to the said Adeline A. Totman.

                I nominate and appoint Nathaniel M. Davis Esquire of said Plymouth to be executor of this my last Will and Testament.

                In Witness Whereof I the said Barnabas Otis have hereto subscribed my name and affixed my seal this thirteenth day of March A. D. eighteen Hundred and forty four.

                                                                                                                                                Barnabas Otis                                   (seal)

Signed Sealed, published and declared by the said Barnabas Otis as and for his last Will and Testament in our presence who at his request and in his presence and in presence of each other have subscribed our names as Witnesses hereto (The words “are hereby bequeathed and devised” being first inserted.)

                William Davis

                Joseph Holmes

                Joseph Wright

 

Presented for probate on 8 June 1747 by Chandler Carver and Harriet Carver, the said Harriet being one of the devisees therein, and proved by William Davis and Joseph Holmes 4th, two of the subscribing witnesses.

 

                Plymouth April 12, 1847.

                                To the Judge of Probate for the County of Plymouth, I hereby decline accepting the appointment of Executor of the Will of Barnabas Otis of Plymouth, deceased.

                                                                                                                                                Nathl. M. Davis.

 

Timothy Gordon, of Plymouth, was granted Administration with the Will Annexed of the Estate of Barnabas Otis, late of Plymouth, on 8 June 1847, Nathaniel M. Davis, named as Executor having declined, with Jacob H. Loud and William R. Sever, both of Plymouth, as sureties.

Eleazer S. Bartlett, William Nelson and Heman Cobb, all of Plymouth, were appointed to appraise his estate on 8 June 1847.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Barnabas Otis, late of Plymouth, was dated 9 June 1847, his real estate valued at $766.67, and his personal estate totaled $56.00. Timothy Gordon, the Administrator with the will annexed on the estate of Barnabas Otis, late of Plymouth, gave his oath to the inventory on 1 Nov. 1847.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 89, pp. 236-238, 431-432, from FHL microfilm #0555639, and Vol. 10A, p. 555.

 

 

Will of Abiel Packard of Bridgewater, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1773) *

In the Name of God Amen I Abiel Packard of Bridgwater in the County of Plymouth & Province of the Massachusetts Bay In New-England Gentm. being of Perfect mind & Memory (Blessed be God) But Weak of Body do make & Ordain this my Last Will and Testament that is to say I having Recommended my Body to the Dust to be decently Buried According to the Discretion of My Executor hereafter named & my Soul into the hand of God that Gave it and as to my Worldly Estate I do Dispose of in the Manner & Form as follows ~

Imprs. I do Give & Bequeath to my Beloved Wife Deliverance Packard all the Estate She Brought to me at Marriage that Shall Remain not Extinct or Worn out at my Decease & also One Good Cow or the Cow that She Brought & the Sum of thirty Pounds Lawfull Money Each to be Delivered & paid to her by my Executor hereafter Named within thirty Days next after my Decease to be at her Own Disposal In Case She Shall then Quit her Right of Dowry or Third Part of the Improvement of My Real Estate that I Shall Die Seized & Possessed of & In Case She Should Utterly Refuse to Quit her Right of Dowry then the Estate that She Brought to me as Abovementioned & the Cow & the Money is to Remain in the hands of my Executor hereafter Named for his Own Use Service or to his Heirs or Assigns ~

Item I do Give unto my beloved Son Josiah Packard Gentm. Over & Above what I have Given him by Deeds of Gift heretofore All my Right & Interest in the Purchase Rights or Undivided Unappropriated Lands that Lyeth within the Bounds of Bridgwater Eight Mile Swamp (so called) to him to his Heirs & Assigns forever ~

Item I do Give unto my Beloved Son Joshua Packard Yeoman Over and Above what I have Given him by Deed of Gift & in Money heretofore the Sum of Five Shillings to him & to his Heirs and Assigns for ever to be paid to him in Twelve Months after my Decease by my Executor hereafter named

Item I do Give unto my son Thomas Packard (over & above what I have Given him by Deeds of Gift heretofore) the Sum of Five shillings to be paid by my Executor in manner as Above.

Item I do Give unto my son Timothy Packard Yeoman over and Above what I have Given him Heretofore by Deeds of Gift the Sum of Five Shillings to be paid by Ditto as Above ~

Item – I do Give unto my Son Daniel Packard Yeoman the Sum of Five Shillings over and Above what I have heretofore Given him By Deeds of Gift to be paid by my Executors as Above ~

Item I do Give unto my son Eliab Packard Yeoman (Over & Above what I have Given him by Deeds of Gift heretofore) the Sum of Five Shillings to be paid by My Executor as Above ~

Item I do Give unto my Well beloved Daughter Sarah Snell the Wife of Ebenezar Snell Late of Said Bridgwater (now Resident at a Place called Number five in the Massachusetts-Bay In New-England Yeoman One Third Part of the Personal Estate that I Die Seized and Possed of not heretofore nor hereafter Disposed of Otherwise by me to her to her Heirs & Assigns forever over & Above what I Gave her at Marriage & by Deed ~

Item I do Give unto my Well beloved Daughter Betty Edson the Wife of Jacob Edson of said Bridgwater Yeoman my best Bed best Case of Drawers & best Oval Table also One Third Part of my Personal Estate that I Die Seized and Possessed of not before Disposed of heretofore nor hereafter by me to her her Heirs & Assigns forever Over & above what I Gave her at Marriage & by Deed ~

Item I do Give & Bequeath to my well Beloved Son Benjamin Packard of Bridgwater afores’d Yeoman One third Part of My Personal Estate that I Die Seized & Possessed of not heretofore nor hereafter Particularly Disposed of by me that is to Say Benjamins third Betty & Sarah’s Third are to be Equal I also Give & Bequeath to my Said Son Benjamin & to his Heirs & Assigns forever a Certain Tract or Parcel of Land Lying & being in the North Two Miles Additional Grant to Said Bridgwater & within the Bounds of the Old Mens Shane (so Called) Bounded Westerly on the West Shane Line (so Called) & Southerly on Land of Jesse Perkins & East on a Brook Called Tracy Brook & Northerly On Land That I Gave to my Son Timothy Packard (By Deed of Gift) together with the Buildings, Orchardings & fences that and on said Premises to him my Said Son Benjamin & to his Heirs & Assigns forever I also Give unto my Sd. Son Benjamin my Money & all my Outstanding Debts to Inable him to pay my Just Debts & Legacies and I Do hereby Order Constitute & Appoint my Said Son Benjamin Packard to be the Sole Executor of this my Last Will & Testament, Ordering him to pay all the Above Specifyed Legacies According to the Time above Specifyed And to pay all My Just Debts & my Funeral Charges – Futhermore I do Give unto my Said Son Benjamin one third Part of my Eighth Part of a Saw Mill & Dam Standing on Salsbury Plain River & Near the Dwelling House of Thomas Reynolds in Said Bridgwater And I do Declare this to be my Last Will & Testament Revoking all Others made by me heretofore on this Nineteenth Day of June Anno Domini One Thousand Seven hundred Seventy & three & in the Thirteenth Year of the Reign of our Sovereign Lord George the Third King of Great Britain & Signed Sealed ~

Published Pronounced & Declared by the

Said Abiel Packard to be

his Last Will & Testament                                                                                                Abiel Packard                                   (seal)

In Presents of

Simeon Cary

Jesse Perkins

Daniel Noyes

 

Probated on 4 July 1774, and proved by Simeon Cary, Jesse Perkins and Daniel Noyes, the three Witnesses.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 21, p. 624-626, from FHL microfilm #0550712.

 

 

Will of Daniel Packard of Bridgewater, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1732) *

In the Name of God Amen. The 16. day of March in the Year of Our Lord 1731/2  I Daniel Packard of Bridgewater in the County of Plymo in New-England being sick & weak in Body but of prfect Mind & Memory Thanks be given unto God Therefore calling to Mind ye. Mortality of my Body I do Make & ordain this my last Will & Testament Principally I Give & Recommend my Soul into ye. hands of God that gave it, and my Body I Recommend to the Earth to be buried in a decent Christian Manner at ye. discretion of my Executor hereafter Named: And as touching such worldly Estate wherewith it hath pleased God to bless Me in this Life I Give Demise & Dispose of the same in the following Manner and form —

Imprimis I Give to my son Isaac Packard fourty eight acres of Land on the Northerly End of my Home Lands, to be set off by a Line running East & by South & West & By North across the whole breadth of sd homeland; And also a Part of my Lot of Land below Willm Turners viz: All that which lyeth on the North Easterly side of ye River by Joshua to be Enjoyed by my sd. Son his Heirs & assigns forever —

Item – I Give to my son Daniel Packard the Northerly Half of that which remains of my sd. Homelands after ye. sd. fourty eight acres shall be set off to be set off likewise by a Line parallell with the line before described, & measured in equal Quantity with ye. southerly share, Together with all my Housing to my sd. Son Daniel Packard his Heirs & assigns forever, But withall I do hereby oblige him to pay out to my Daughter Sarah Packard fifteen Pounds in Money & to my Daughter Mary fifteen Pounds & to my Daughter Susanna ten Pounds all to be paid by my sd. son Daniel within three years after he shall come to the age of twenty one —

Itm I Give to my Son Nehemiah Packard his Heirs and Assigns forever ye. Southerly End of my sd home lands being one half of what shall remain after the first fourty eight Acres shall be set off; And also all that Part of my fore mentioned Lot below William Turner’s that lyeth on the South Westerly Side of the River – But withall I do oblige my sd. son Nehemiah to pay out in Money to my Daughter Susanna five Pounds & to my Daughter Martha fifteen Pounds, all within three years after he shall come to the Age of twenty one: And further, My Purchase Right in Land not laid out I Give to my three sons above named & to their Heirs & Assigns forever –

Itm I Give to my Daughter Sarah Packard one quarter Part of all my Personal Estate as Creatures, Money, & other Moveables both within doors & without And a quarter Part of all my Outlands Except what is Given to my three Sons above named, as also fifteen Pounds in Money to be paid to her by her Brother Daniel as above Expresst —

Itm I Give to my Daughter Mary Packard One quarter Part of all my Personal Estate before Mentioned and one quarter Part of my Outlands Except what is Given to my sons Abovenamed, And also fifteen Pounds in Money to be paid to her by her Brother Daniel Above named —

Itm I Give to my Daughter Susanna Packard One quarter Part of all my Personal Estate before Mentioned, & a quarter Part of all my Outlands Except what is herein Given to her Brethern before named and also ten Pound to be paid to her by her Brother Daniel & five Pounds to be paid to her by her Brother Nehemiah as is above Expressed —

Itm I Give to my Daughter Martha one quarter Part of all my sd. Personal Estate before Mentioned & one quarter Part of my Out land Except as is before Excepted And also fifteen Pounds in Money to be paid to her by her Brother Nehemh before Named: And ye. Outlands given to my four Daughters before Named is given to them their Heirs & assigns forever — And I do Constitute & Appoint my loving Brother Samuel Packard to be the Sole Executor of this my last Will & Testament.

Signed Sealed Pronounced & Declared by ye. sd.

Daniel Packard to be his last Will and                                                                                            his

Testament. In the Presence of ~                                                                                          Daniel  ȹ  Packard                           (seal)

Samuel Packard                                                                                                                                   Mark

Joseph Alger

Joseph Edson

 

Probated on 20 Apr. 1732, and proved by Samuel Packard, Joseph Alger, and Joseph Edson, the witnesses. Letters Testamentary were granted to Samuel Packard, brother of the deceased and sole Executor, on 2 May 1732.

 

The Inventory of the Estate both real & personal of Mr. Daniel Packard late of Bridgewater, who deceased on 21 Mar. 1731/2, was appraised by Joseph Edson, Recompence Cary, and Samuel Lathrop on 28 Apr. 1832, not totaled, but his home lands of about 117 acres with the buildings was valued at £920, and 10 acres of land on the river below William Turners was valued at £80. Samuel Packard, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 3 July 1732.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 6, pp. 172-174, 181-182, from FHL microfilm #0550512.

 

 

Will of David Packard of Bridgewater, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1754) *

                                In the Name of God Amen. The third Day of January Anno. Domi One Thousand Seven hundred and Fifty four.  I David Packard of Bridgwater in the County of Plimouth in New England, Being now of perfect and Disposing Mind And Memory, thanks be to God for it, and calling to mind the Mortality Of My Body and Knowing that it is Appointed for all Men once to die do ordain and make this my Last and Testament, that is to Say Principally and first of all I Give and recommend my Soul into the Hands of the Great God who Gave it hoping thro’ the Merrits death & Passion Of the Lord Jesus Christ to have full and free Pardon of All my Sins, and to Inheritt Everlasting Life and my body I committ to the Earth to be Decently Buried at the Discretion of My Execr hereafter named, Hoping at the Generall resurrection to receive same again by the Power of God Almighty, and as Touching Such worldly estate wherewith it hath pleased God to bless me in this Life, I Give demise, and Dispose of the same in the following Manner and form that is to Say in the first place My Will is that All my Just Debts that I owe to any Person or Persons whatsoever be well and Trully paid by My Execr. hereafter Named in a convenient time after My Decease.

Item.  I Give and Bequeath unto my well beloved Wife Hannah the One half of the Improvment of My Homstead while She shall continue My Widdow and One third thereof during her Naturall Life Also I Give unto my said wife all my Indoor Moveables that is House-hold-Goods, togather with one half of all my Quick Stock to be intirely at her Dispose.

Item.  I Give and bequeath unto my son David his heirs & Assigns forever One Quarter of a Quarter part of the Saw Mill Stand by James Packard’s, having allready Given to my sd. Son David a Deed Of the Land whereon he Dwells togather with other Lands which Deed I ratify and Confirm in & by this My Last Will and Testament.

Item.  I Give and Bequeath unto My Son William his heirs & assigns forever One Quarter of a Quarter part of the Saw-Mill Standing by James Packard’s, having Already Given unto him a Deed of the Land whereon he dwells togather with Other Lands, which I Do Hereby ratify and confirm.

Item.  I Give and Bequeath unto my Son Isaac his heirs and Assigns forever a sixth part of the forge or Iron works by James Packard’s having Already Given unto him a Deed of the lands whereon he dwells togather with Other Lands which I do hereby ratify and confirm.

Item.  I Give and Bequeath unto my Son Ebenezer his heirs & Assigns forever One quarter of a Quarter part of the Saw mill Standing by James Packard’s also the Other half of my Quick Stock having Already Given unto him a Deed of my of my Homstead with Some Other Lands which I do hereby ratify & Confirm. – And I Do hereby Nominate and Appoint my said Son Ebenezer the sole Execr. of this My Last Will and Testament.

Item  I Give and bequeath unto my Son Abiah his heirs and Assigns forever One Quarter of a Quarter part of the Saw-Mill by James Packar’s, Having Already Given unto him a Tract of Land (Lying On the southerly side of the Lands of the said David & William as also some Other Lands) by Deed which I do hereby ratify and Confirm.

Item.  I Give and Bequeath unto My Daughter Hannah the wife of Samuell Brett the Sum of Five Shillings Lawfull Money to be Paid by my said Execr. having already Given her Some thing by Another Instrument besides what I did for her at her Marriage

Item.  I Give & bequeath unto my Daughter Mary the wife of Daniel Richards the sum of five shillings lawfull money to be paid by said Execr. having Given her Something by Another Instrument, besides what I Gave her at Marrage

Item.  I Give and Bequeath unto My Daughter Mehetable five shillings lawfull money to be paid by said Execr. having by an Other Instrument so Ordered it that she Should her proportion of my Estate.

Item.  I Give and Bequeath unto my Daughter Jane the Sum Of five shillings Lawfull Money to be paid by my said Execr. having by another Instrument So Ordered it that she shall have her Proportion of My Estate.

Further I Give unto my Said Sons David, William, Isaac, Ebenr. & Abial all my wareing Apparell to be Equall Divided betwen them, and further I Give unto my said sons Ebenezer and Abiah My Carts Sleads, Plows Chains yokes and all my Husbandry tools to be Equally Divided between them. And I do hereby utterly disalow, revoke and disanull all and every former Testaments Wills and Legasies, Bequests & Execrs by me in any wise before this time Made, Willed and Bequeathed, ratifying and confirming this and No Other to be my Last Will and Testament. In Witness whereof I have hereunto Sett my hand and Seal the Day and Year Afore mentioned.

Signed Sealled, published, pronounced                                                                          David Packard                 (seal)

& declared by the said David Packard

As his last Will and Testament

      In the presence of us Subscribers

Josiah Edson Junr.

Nathan Packard

Joseph Hooper

 

Presented for probate on 1 Dec. 1755 by the Executor therein named, and proved by Josiah Edson Junr. Esqr. and Nathan Packard, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Ebenezer Packard of Bridgwater, Yeoman, the Executor, with Josiah Edson Junr. Esqr. and Isaac Packard, Yeoman, both of Bridgwater, as sureties.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 14, p. 21-23, from FHL microfilm #0551542.

 

 

Will of David Packard of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1783) *

In the Name of God Amen the twenty Second day of January in the year of our Lord one thousand Seven hundred and Eighty three, I David Packard of Bridgwater in the County of Plymouth and Commonwealth of Massachusetts in New England yeoman, being advanced in age, yet through devine Goodness of a sound and disposing mind and memory and calling to mind the Frailty & mortality of my body as well as the Souls immortality and the Great duty of Setting my house in order before death, do now proceed to make & ordain this my Last will & testament and first of all I Commend my immortal Soul into the hands of that God who Gave it, trusting in the merits and intercession of Jesus Christ my Saviour for pardon Grace & Glory; my body I Commit unto the dust to be decently buried at the discretion of my Executor nothing doubting but at the Great Resurrection the same will be Raised again by the mighty power of God to a Glorious immortality, & with Respect to my worldly Interest and Estate which by the blessing of providence I have now in possession I dispose of it in the following manner viz—

Imprimis—I Give and bequeath unto my well beloved wife Dorothy the use and improvement of one half o my homestead Lands & the improvement of one half my dwelling house and other buildings also a Seat in my pew in the north meeting house also the use of my Great Iron kettle and warming pan during the whole time of her Natural Life, and I Give unto her my said wife, to be entirely at her dispose two milk Cows & my horse and one Swine, and one half my Indian Corn & grain and meat & Sauce & Hay which may be in my possession at the time of my decease, I also Give her all the household Goods & furniture that she brought with her when she came to my house to Live with me—

Item—I Give and bequeath unto my Son Abiezer and to his heirs and assigns one acre of pine Land Lying in the north precinct Bridgwater bounded on the westerly side by William Packards Land, on the southerly Side & northerly & Easterly end by Lands of Ebenezer Packard; and the Reason that I Give him no more at this time is because I have heretofore Given him a Settlement which is Considered as his full Share in my Real Estate—

Item—I Give and bequeath unto my Son David & his heirs and assigns, one half my Pew in the north meeting house, and the Reason I Give him no more at this time is because the Settlement I have already Given him is Considered as his full Share in my Real Estate

Item—I Give and bequeath unto my Son Ephraim one half my Pew in the north meeting house, I also Give unto him the sum of twenty pounds in Lawful Silver money at the Rate of Six Shillings & Eight pence p oz to be paid to him by my Executor hereafter named within twelve months after my decease. I also Give him twenty pounds more to be paid by my sd Executor within twelve months after the decease of my sd wife Dorothy in Silver money at Six Shillings & Eight pence p oz.—

Item—I Give and bequeath unto my Son Abraham & his heirs & assigns all my Homestead Lands and Buildings

Item—my will is that my wearing apparell should all be equally Divided between my two Sons viz~—Abraham and Ephraim, and Further it is my will that my Live Stock and indoor and out door moveables and all the Remainder of my Estate Real & personal not herein before mentioned & otherways disposed of should be equally divided amongst my Four Sons viz~—Abiezer—David—Abraham and Ephraim—

Lastly—I do hereby nominate and appoint my Son Abraham Sole Executor upon this my Last will & testament, ordering him to pay & discharge all my just debts and Funeral Charges, and to pay the above mentioned Legacies out of what I have Given him—In witness whereof I have hereunto Set my hand & Seal the day & year aforesaid.

Signed, Sealed, published, pronounced and                                                                            his

declared by the sd David to be his Last will                                                                    David  X  Packard               (seal)

& testament in presence of                                                                                          mark

                Barney Leonard

                Joseph Bassett

                James Leach

 

Probated on 7 March 1785, presented by Abraham Packard, the Executor, and proved by Joseph Bassett and James Leach, two of the witnesses.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 29, p. 245-247, from FHL microfilm #0550715.

 

 

Will of Ebenezer Packard of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1791) *

In the Name of God Amen.— I Ebenezer Packard of Bridgwater in the County of Plymouth & Comwealth of Massachusett, yeoman, being of sound mind & memory, blessed be almighty God therefor, do this twentieth day of September Anno Domini one thousand, Seven Hundred & Ninety one, make & ordain this my last will & testament, in the following manner –vizt– I commend my soul unto the hand of almighty God my creator, hoping to recieve the free pardon of all my sins & salvation thro’ ye merits of Jesus Christ my redeemer; and my body, to the earth to be decently interred according to the discretion of my Executor hereafter named, in hopes of a glorious resurrection unto life eternal, and touching such worldly estate which it hath pleased God to bless me with, I will & bequeath in the following manner and form.~

        I Bequeath to Sarah Packard, my dearly beloved wife the improvement of one third of my real estate–the whole of my Pew in the meeting house & household furniture, during her natural life and all my live stock to her free disposal.~

Also–I Give unto my well beloved sons–vizt–Ebenezer, Jonas, Adam, Mathew, Eliphalet, Robert, Joel, Lot, Noah & Joseph my wearing apparell to be equally divided amongst them, share & share alike.

Also–I Give unto my well beloved sons Adam, Robert, Lot & Joseph my Pew in the north meeting house in Bridgwater, after their mother’s decease –

Also–I Give unto my sons Robert, Lot & Joseph, one sixteenth part of a saw mill near the Forge in the north Parish in Bridgwater equally ~

Also–I Give unto my son Joseph, after, his mother’s decease, the value of Six Pounds in houshold furniture. .

Also–I Give unto my well beloved daughter Alice, the remainder of my houshold furniture after her mother’s decease –

Also–I Give unto my sons Robert & Lot equally, all my farming utensills together, with all other of my estate not heretofore dispose of, and, I do hereby appoint the said Robert & Lot joint Executors of this my last will & testament, who are to pay all my just debts & funeral charges, in convenient time after my decease.— In, Testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand & seal, the day & year above written.—

Signed, Seale’d Published & Pro-

nounced by ye sd Ebenr. Packard,                                                                                     Ebenezer Packard                           (seal)

as his last will & testament in ye

presence of us, & in ye presence of each

other, have hereunto subscribed our

names –

                Zadok Perkins

                Jonas Reynolds jr.

                Jesse Perkins –

 

Presented for probate on 7 Mar. 1803 by Robert Packard & Lot Packard, the Executors therein named, and proved by Jonas Reynolds jr. & Jesse Perkins, two of the witnesses.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 38, p. 263-264, from FHL microfilm #0550720.

 

 

Will of Deacon Ebenezer Packard Jr., of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1797) *

        In the name of God Amen—This twenty fifth day of November Anno Domini One thousand seven hundred & ninety seven I Ebenezer Packard junr of Bridgwater in the county of Plymouth and State of Massachusetts, yeoman, being infirm of body but of perfect mind & memory thanks be to God, calling to mind the mortality of my body & knowing it is appointed to all men once to die, do make and ordain this my last will & testament, that is to say, First of all I recommend my soul into the hands of God who gave it, and my body to the earth by a decent burial at the discretion of my Executors, nothing doubting but that at the general resurrection I shall recieve it again by the mighty power of God, & as touching that worldly estate which God has blessed me with, I do give and dispose of it in the following manner & form

        I Give & bequeath to my well beloved wife Content Packard the improvement of all my estate both real & personal after my just debts & funeral charges are paid, for the term of seven years after my decease, to enable her to Educate & support all my children with the assertance of their labour the full term of the abovesaid seven years, excepting those of the said children that shall arrive of age before the time aforesaid shall be expired

2dly.—And my will is that after the aforesaid seven years shall be ended my Estate be divided as the law directs in cases of intestate Estate, excepting what my daughter Meltiah, the wife of Barnabas Packard has already had, which is to be considered as a part of her portion of my estate

3dly—I Constitute and appoint my well beloved wife Content Packard & my Brother Eliphalet Packard joint Executrix & Executors of this my last will & testament. In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal the day & year above mentioned

Signed Sealed & Published and                                                                                       Ebenezer Packard junr                   (seal)

declared, in presence of us                

                Issacher Snell

                Philip Bryant

                Caleb Howard

 

Presented for probate on 5 Feb. 1798 by Content Packard & Eliphalet Packard, the Executors therein named, and proved by Philip Bryant & Caleb Howard, two of the witnesses.

 

Ephraim Jackson & Abel Kingman, Gentlemen, and Mr. Japhet Beal, all of Bridgwater, were appointed to appraise the estate of Deacon Ebenezer Packard Junr, late of Bridgwater, on 9 Dec. 1797. The Inventory of the Estate of Deacon Ebenezer Packard, late of Bridgwater, dated 28 Dec. 1797, totaled $3321.15, including his lands & buildings valued at $2377. Content Packard and Eliphalet Packard, the Executors of the estate, gave their oath to the inventory on 5 Feb 1798.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 32, p. 291-293, from FHL microfilm #0550719.

 

 

Will of Israel Packard Jr., of Bridgewater, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1752) *

In the Name of God Amen, I, Isrial Packard, Junr. of Bridgwater in the County of Plimouth and Province of the Massachusets Bay in New England Husbandman Being Sencable of the Mortality of My Body, & Altho at the Present Time Infirm as to Helth Yet of Sound Mind & Perfect Memory, Blessed Be God, Do Hereby Make & Confirm this as my last Will and Testament Wherein I do in the first place Recommend My Soule to God, & My Body to decent Christian Burial and as Touching my Worldly Substance Wherewith God hath Blessed me, I do Hereby Dispose them In Form & Mannor as Follows, viz,

I Give and Bequeath to My Beloved Wife Ruth Packard the Sum of twenty Six Pound, thirteen Shillings & foure pence Lawfull Silver Money or to the Value thereof in my Moveables as they Shall be Apprised, Together with the Improvement of the whole dureing her Widdowhood, and My Will is that She be Content therewith

Furthermore I do hereby Constitute My Brother Archibald Robenson Sole Executor of this My Will & Testament and My Will is that he pay Unto My Brothers & Sisters that is to Say to Seth Packard Robert Packard to the heirs of Mehitable West to Hannah Phillip & Zerviah Washburne to them or there heirs Lawfully proceeding in Equal Proportion the Remainder of My Estate After the Expiration of My Widdows Term Before mentioned to Decend to them After the Manor or Proportion Directed in the Law in Equal Distribution among Lawfull heirs Decelareing this to Be My last Will and Testament Made and Ordained this Eighteenth day of April Ano, Domi 1752.

                                                                                                                                                Isreal Packard Junr.                       (seal)

Subscribed Sealed & Declared

in Presence of us

Jona. Packard

Jean Packard

Simeon Brett

 

Presented for probate on 4 May 1752, and proved by Jonathan Packard, Jean Packard and Simeon Bratt, the witnesses. Letters of Administration granted to Archibald Robenson of Bridgewater, on 4 May 1752.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 13, p. 10-12.

 

 

Will of James Packard of Bridgewater, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1765) *

                                                In the Name of God Amen.

The twenty fourth day of September in the year of our Lord one thousand, seven hundred & sixty five; I James Packard of Bridgwater in the county of Plimouth & Province of the Massachusets Bay in New England yeoman, being in a declining state of bodily health, but of perfect mind & memory thanks be to God therefor, and calling to mind the mortality of my body, knowing that it is appointed for all men once to die, do make & ordain this my last will & testament, that is to say, principally & first of all, I give & recommend my soul into the hands of God that gave it, and my body I recomend to the earth to be buryd, in decent christian burial, at the discression of my executor hereafter named, nothing doubting but at the general resurrection I shall receive the same again by the mighty power of God; And as touching such worldly estate wherewith it hath pleased God, to bless me in this life, I give, demise & dispose of the same in the followg. manner & form.

Imprs. I give to my welbeloved son James one eighth part of a sawmill standing a few rods from Packard,s forge (so called, in Bridgwater, & one half of my right & interest in the old cedar-swamp (so called) in in  Bridgwater, and a certain piece of meadow lying on the west side of Salisbury-Plain-River, between meadow of Lieut. Henry Kingman, & meadow formerly belonging to my brother John Packard decd., & all my right in the common or undivided lands in Bridgwater aforesd, All that is afore demised to my said son James I give to him, his heirs and assigns forever. Also I give to my said son James one half of my wearing apparel, one half of my husbandry tools, & implements, & one half of my great iron kettle, to be at his dispose. ~

Item. I give to my well beloved son Reuben (whom I likewise constitute, make & ordain sole executor of this my last will & testament,) one eighth part of a sawmill standing a few rods from Packard,s forge Abovesd, & all my right in the Grist-mill standing on or near Salisbury-Plain-River abovesd., together with my privileges belonging to said right. Also I give to my sd. Son Reuben one half of my right & interest in the old cedar swamp abovesd. & all my right in Packard,s forge aforesd. with my privileges belonging to sd. right, also my dwelling house & other buildings not otherwise herein disposed off. All the estate that is afore demised to my sd. son Reuben, I give to him his heirs & assigns forever. Also I give unto my sd. son Reuben, all my quick stock of every kind, & one half of my wearing apparel, & one half of my husbandry tools & implements, & all my houshold goods & indoor moveables (excepting what I have herein bequeathed to my son James before named) Also all my estate whatsoever, not in this my last will & testament otherwise disposed off, I give to my sd. Son Reuben, his heirs & assigns forever. ~

Item. I give to my three welbeloved daughters Kezia, Jemima and Rebecca twenty four pounds, five shillings & four pence apiece to be paid to them in cattle or bars iron at the market price in cash, by my aforenamed executor in four years next after my decease at four equal payments, That is to say, to each & every of my sd. three daughters the value of six pounds one shilling & four pence in cattle or bars iron at cash price, annually during the said term of four years. –

Also I give to my aforenamed three daughters all the money due to me from Luke Perkins on his note of hand, also all the money due to me from Nehemiah Lincoln on his note of hand to be equally divided between them. ~  It is also my will that my just debts be paid, & my funeral charge defrayed by my aforenamed executor out of the estate I have given him. & I do hereby utterly disallow, revoke & disanull all & every other former testaments, wills, legacies, bequests & executors by me in any ways before namd, willed & bequeathed, ratyfying & confirming this & no other to be my last will & testament. In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand & seal the day & year first aforewritten.

Signed, sealed & declared by the                                                                                     James Packard                                 (seal)

sd. James Packard as his last will &

testament in presence of us the subsrs.

Constant Southworth, Josiah Snell Junr. Shepard Fisk

 

Presented for probate on 2 Dec. 1765 by Reuben Packard, the Executor therein named, and proved by Constant Southworth and Josiah Snell junr., two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Reuben Packard, the Executor.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 19, p. 356-358, from FHL microfilm #0550711.

 

 

Will of Jonathan Packard of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1803) *

  In the Name of God amen I Jonathan Packard of Bridgwater in the County of Plymouth Gentleman being of sound disposing Mind & Memory Thanks be to God for the same, do this twenty eighth day of March in the Year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and three make publish pronounce and declare this my last Will and Testament as followeth —

        Imprimis I will that all my just debts, funeral charges & such Legacies as is herein after willed and given, shall be paid by my Executor herein after named —

        Item I give and bequeath to my Wife Martha the use & Improvement of one half part of all my Land, the use and Improvement of one third part of my Dwelling house, and one half of my Barn, and all my other Buildings for so long time as she shall remain my Widow, but in cas she shall marry then my will is, & I give devise & bequeath to her my said Wife Martha the use & Improvement of one third part of all my Real Estate for & during her natural Life and no more. — I further give and bequeath to my Wife Martha two Cows, my best Horse, side saddle and all my household Furniture & indoor moveables (excepting two feather Beds Bedsteads & furniture to her use & benefit forever —

        Item I give and bequeath to my Daughter Alathea Packard my best Feather Bed Bedstead & Bed Furniture, and one of my cows, such one as she shall choose, to her use and benefit forever, and I further give and bequeath to her my said Daughter Alathea, for So long time as she shall remain single and unmarried, the use and Improvement of the west room in my Dwelling house, the Chamber over the same, a privilege in the Kitchen sufficient to perform her own Kitchen work, also in the oven Cellar & Well of Water & to pass to & from the same, the Keeping of a Cow Summer and Winter through the year each & every year also her support in fuel and all kinds of necessary food & raiment convenient & decent including medical aid and nursing in case of sickness or inability and to be done and performed by my Executor herein after named, provided nevertheless if my said Daughter Alathea, shall marry then my Will is that all the foregoing conditional Legacy, which I have given to her in her unmarried State shall be rendered null and void and in lieu thereof, I give and bequeath to her my said Daughter Alathea five hundred dollars to her use and benefit forever, to paid her by my Executor afternamed in one year after the day of her marriage with Interest untill paid from her marriage day —

        Item I give and bequeath to my Daughter in Law Sarah Loring the Wife of Caleb Loring, five Dollars to be paid her by my Executor herein after named in one Year after my decease —

        And I do hereby ordain constitute and appoint my Grandson Caleb Packard Son of my Son Caleb Packard late deceased sole Executor of this my last Will and Testament —

        Item I give devise and bequeath to my said Grandson Caleb Packard Son of my Son Caleb deceased, his Heirs and Assigns forever my Homestead Farm whereon I now live, containing by Estimation about one hundred acres more or less, including all the Buildings thereon (only reserving such use & Improvement, and for such time, as I have herein before willed and given and no longer) together with all my other out lands wherever the same may lie or howsoever the same may be situated bounded or reputed to be bounded that doth of right to me belong. also all my other Estate of what name or nature soever, not herein before particular willed given and disposed of he paying all my just debts funeral Charges and all such Legacies as is herein before willed and given either in Specie or support, according to the Tenor & true Intent & Meaning of each Legacy herein before willed & given & ordered for my Executor to do –

        And I do hereby revoke, disannul, & render void & of none effect all other & former Wills ratifying & confirming this & this only as & for my last Will and Testament. In Witness whereof I the said Jonathan the Testator have hereunto set my hand & Seal the day & year first above written.

Signed sealed published pronounced and

declared by the said Jonathan Packard

the Testator as & for his last will                                                                                      Jonathan Packard                           (seal)

& Testament in the presence of us

who by his request & in his presence

& we in the presence of each other have

hereunto subscribed our Names as Witnesses

        Josiah Snell

        Cyrus Snell

        Daniel Snow

 

Presented for probate on 1 July 1805 by Caleb Packard, the Executor therein named, and proved by Josiah Snell and Daniel Snow Esqr. two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Caleb Packard, the before named Executor.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 40, p. 251-253, from FHL microfilm #0550901.

 

 

Will of Joseph Packard of Bridgewater, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1760) *

In the Name of God amen, the twenty fourth day of September One thousand seven hundred & Sixty, I Joseph Packard of Bridgwater in the County of Plimouth in New England Yeoman, Being of perfect Mind and memory thanks be given to God, therefore Calling to mind the mortallity of my body and knowing that it is appointed for all men Once to die do make and Ordain this my last will & Testament that is to say principally and first of all I Give & Recomend my Soul into the Hands of God that gave it and my body I recomend to the Earth to be buried in Decent Christian burial at the Discretion of my Executrix Nothing doubting but at the General Resurrection I Shall receive the same again by the mighty power of God and as touching Such worldly Estate where with it hath pleased God to bless me with in this life I give demise and dispose of the same in the following manner and form.

Imprimis I Give and bequeath To my Dearly beloved wife Mary, whom I likewise Constitute make and ordain my Sole Executrix of this my Last will and Testament the One half of all my moveable Estate both within doors & without be it of what kind soever free & Clear forever, and the third part of the improvement of my Homelands dureing her natural life. –

Item, I Give to my well beloved son Joseph Packard the third twenty Shillings lawfull money to be paid to him Out of my Estate within two years after my decease he haveing received the other part of his portion out of my Estate Already.

Item, I Give to my well beloved daughter Susanna Knap the wife of Joseph Knap the One quarter part of all my moveable Estate of what kind soever.

Item, I Give to my well beloved daughter Mary Packard twenty shillings lawfull money to be paid to her out of my Estate within two years after my decease She haveing received the Other part of her portion out of my Estate already.

Item, It is my will that all my Debts be paid out of my Lands to be disposed of or sold by my Executrix by the best way or means She may or can.

Item I Give to my well beloved son John Packard all my Lands which Shall remain after my debts are paid be the same upland meadow or swamp Improved or not improved I Give it all to him free & Clear forever. Together with my sixteenth part of a Sawmill known by the name of Packards Sawmill in the west precinct in said Bridgwater, and I likewise Give unto him my said son John Packard One quarter part of all my Moveable Estate of what kind soever he paying to my son Joseph Packard twenty shillings lawfull money which I have Given him by this my last will & Testament as abovesaid, and Likewise he my said son John Packard paying to my Daughter Mary Packard twenty shillings lawfull money which I have Given her by this my last will & Testament as aforesaid.~

And if there shall be any Estate of myne hereafter found which I have not given, and disposed of by this my last will & Testament I do hereby give it all to my said son John Packard his heirs & Assigns forever, and I do hereby utterly disallow revoke and dissanull all and Every other former Testaments wills and bequests by me in any ways before named Ratyfieing & Confirming this & no other to be my last will and Testament In Witness whereof I hereunto set my hand & Seal the day and year abovesaid.   Signed sealed Published pronounced and declared by the said Joseph Packard as his Last will and Testament In presence of us the Subscribers.

Abner Hayward

Henry Haward                                                                                                                     Joseph Packard                                (seal)

Gamaliel Bryant

John Willis.

 

Presented for probate on 13 Oct. 1760 by the Execrx. therein named, and proved by Abner Hayward, Henry Haward and John Willis Esqr, three of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Mary Packard, widdow of the deceased and Executrix, on 13 Oct. 1760.

 

The Inventory of the Estate both Real and Personal of Joseph Packard late of Bridgewater, yeoman, was appraised on 3 Dec. 1760 by Saml. Packard, Job Packard, and Daniel Lothrop, totaled £249.15.9, including his lands and buildings valued at £186.13.4. The appraisers gave their oath to the inventory on 6 Apr. 1761, and Mary Hartwell, the Executrix, gave her oath to the inventory on 3 Aug. 1761.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 16, pp. 13-14, 203, from FHL microfilm #0551543.

 

 

Will of Martha Packard of North Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1831) *

Be it remembered that I Martha Packard of North Bridgewater in the County of Plymouth Widow being of sound mind & memory & considering the uncertainty of life, do make & ordain the following as my last Will and Testament.

I give devise & bequeath to my children – Ambrose, Parmenas Galen, Apollos, Gideon, Roland & Royal Packard & Susan wife of Barney Thayer & Tiley wife of Capt John Packard, all my wearing apparel, and all my linen & Cotton Bed Clothing & Table cloths & all my other Bed Clothing except two Coverlets.

I give devise & bequeath to my three Grandsons, Willard, Isaac & Edmund Packard, sons of Galen Packard, my two Beds, and the two Coverlets before excepted, my Clock, Iron ward, and all other household furniture not – herein before disposed of and I also give, devise & bequeath to the said Willard, Isaac & Edmund, their heirs & assigns my Cow & all the rest residue and remainder of my Estate of whatsoever name or nature to have & to hold to them their heirs & assigns forever –

I hereby constitute and appoint Jesse Perkins sole Executor of this my last Will and Testament.                      In witness whereof I the said Martha Packard, have hereunto set my hand & seal, this twenty second day of August, Eighteen hundred, thirty one.                         her

                                                                                                                                                                   Martha  X  Packard                         (seal)

                                                                                                                                                                                mark

Signed, Sealed, published & declared by the aforesaid Martha Packard to be her last Will & Testament, in presence of us, who at her request and in her presence subscribed our names as Witnesses                                                                                                                                         Jesse Perkins

                                                                                                                                                                                                Ephraim Cole

                                                                                                                                                                                                Esther Packard

 

Presented for probate on 3 April 1832, and proved by Jesse Perkins, one of the subscribing witnesses, who was granted Letters of Administration on 3 Apr. 1832.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 72, p. 115-116, from FHL microfilm #0555261.

 

 

Will of Nathaniel Packard of Bridgewater, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1720) *

In ye name of God amen: aprill ye Twenty fourth 1720. I Nathaniel Packard of Bridgewater In ye County of Plymouth In new:England yeoman Being very Sick & weak of Body but of Perfect mind & memory, Thanks be unto God; Therefore Calling unto mind ye mortality of my Body: and knowing That It is appointed unto man once to dye, do make & ordain This my last will & Testament That is to Say: Principally & first of all I give & Recomend my Soul Into ye hands of God That gave It: & my Body I Recommend to ye Earth to be buried In decent Christian Buriall at ye descretion of my Executors: nothing doubting but at ye great & general Resurrection I Shall Receive ye same again by ye mighty Power of God: and as touching my worldly Estate not otherwise disposed of, I give demise & dispose of ye Same In ye following manner & Forme.

Imprimis: I give & Bequeath to my four Beloved Sons: Sci: Samuel, Zachariah, George & Fearnott Packard all my Husbandry Tools & utensils together with my martiall weapons to be Equally divided between them. Item: I give & Bequeath unto my beloved Daughter Sarah Eight Pounds. Item. to my beloved daughter faithfull five Pounds. Item: I give & Bequeath unto my beloved daughter Deborah Eight Pounds. Item my Will Is that ye Remainder of my Estate be Equally divided among my nine beloved Daughters Scil: margarett, Sarah, Lydiah, Faithfull, Hannah, Deliverance, Elisebeth, mary, Deborah all that time, that my youngest Child be of age and not till then. It is also to be understood to be my will: That If Either of my above mentioned Daughters Dye before my youngest Child Comes of age then Her Part or Portion to be divided among her Children; but If Either of them Dye: and Leaving no Child my Will Is that Her Part, Return to my male Heirs, and I do by these Presents Constitute, make & ordain my two Sons Zachariah & George Executors of this my Last Will & Testament what SoEver Ratifying & Confirming This & no other to be my last will and testament: In Witness whereof I have hereunto Set my Hand & Seal ye Day & year above written.

Signed Sealed Published Pronounced                                                                                             His

& declared by ye Sd Nathaniel Packard                                                                           Nathaniel  \  Packard

as His last will & Testament                                                                                                             mark

In Presence of us ye Subscribers

Benjamin Webb Junr.

Thomas Washbourn

David Turner

 

Probated on 5 June 1721, and proved by Thomas Washbourn & David Turner.

Letters of Administration granted to Zachariah Packard & George Packard, sons of the deceased, on 12 Mar. 1723.

 

The Inventory of the Goods & Chattels of Mr. Nathaniel Packard of Bridgewater, who deceased on May 15th 1721, was appraised by Ephraim Hayward, John Field & Edward Hayward on 1 June 1721.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 4, p. 412-413 (will) and p. 372 (inventory), from FHL microfilm #0550510.

 

 

Will of Ruth Packard of Halifax, Plymouth County, Massachusetts Bay (1786) *

In the Name of God Amen—I Ruth Packard of Halifax in the County of Plymouth, in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, though of a weak body, yet being of a perfect mind and memory do make and ordain this to be my Last will & testament, first and principally I Resign my soul into the merciful hands of almighty God, hoping thro’ the merit of Christ for eternal Life, my body I commit to the earth to be decently buried according to the discretion of my Executor, and as for my worldly Estate after my just debts & funeral expences are paid, I Give and bequeath the same in manner as followeth vizt.

Imprs. – I Give and bequeath unto the Heirs of my Son Jonathan Bozworth deceased, one fifth part of all my Estate, to be equally divided between them

Item – I Give and bequeath unto my Daughter Else Waterman one fifth part of all my Estate –

Item – I Give and bequeath unto the Heirs of my Son Zadock Bozworth deceased one fifth part of all my Estate, that is one third part of said fifth to Waterman Bozworth, and two thirds of said fifth to Elizabeth Bozworth, sd. Elizabeth to take her two thirds out first.~

Item – I Give and bequeath unto my Son Noah Bozworth one fifth part of all my Estate

Item – I Give and bequeath unto my Son Ichabod Bozworth one fifth part of all my Estate, to them and their Heirs and assigns forever, and I do by this my Last will & testament Constitute & appoint my Son Ichabod Bozworth Sole Executor to this my Last will & testament–In Witness whereof I have hereunto Set my hand & Seal this twelfth day of June one thousand, seven hundred & eighty six 1786

Signed Sealed & declared to be her Last                                                                                her

will & testament, in presence of us                                                                                  Ruth  X  Packard                 (seal)

                Ebenr. Tomson                                                                                                             mark

                Andrew Bearse

                John Jones

 

Presented for probate on 4 May 1789 by Ichabod Bozworth, the Executor therein named, and proved by Ebenezr Tomson esqr. and Andrew Bearce, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Ichabod Bozworth, the Executor.

 

Josiah Tomson Gentm, Thomas Fuller, yeoman, and Jabez Waterman, yeoman, all of Halifax, were appointed to appraise the estate of Ruth Packard, late of Halifax, widow, on 4 May 1789. The Inventory of the estate of Mrs. Ruth Packard, late of Halifax, dated 26 May 1789, totaled £76.8.8, no real estate. Ichabod Bozworth, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 3 June 1789.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 30, p. 563-564, from FHL microfilm #0550716.

 

 

Will of Samuel Packard of Bridgewater, Plymouth Colony (1684) *

In the Name of God Amen, the 29 day of October Ano Dom; Sixteen hundred eighty and four and in the Nine and twenty yeare of the Reign of our Good Lord Charles the second by the Grace of God of great Brittaine France and IreLand Kinge defender of the Faith &.

I Samuell Packer Sen’r of Bridgwater in the Collonie of New Plymouth in New England yeoman being weak of body and of p’fect Memory praised be God for the same, doe make and declare this my Last will and Testament in Maner and form following; first and principally I Comitt and Comend My soule into the hands of God Almighty God that Gave it; and my body to decent buriall att the discretion of my executors hereafter Named and Mentioned hopeing for salvation both of soule and body by the Mercyes of God in the Merritts of Jesus Christ My Saviour And Concerning the disposing of my temporall estate I Give and bequeath it as followeth – viz: that all my Just debts that I owe to any pson whatsoever and my funerall Charges be first payed upon: I give and Bequeath unto my Loving wife Elizabeth all that my farm in the said Town of Bridgwater whist I Now dwell upon containing therty six acres of land be it more or less of Land be it more or less with all the houses Lands and Meddowes belonging to the said farme, during the term of her Naturall Life; Item I give and bequeath Item I give & bequeath unto my said wife all my Share of meddow Lying att a place in Bridgwater Called Bulls hole for and during the terme of her Naturall Life and alsoe all my goods and Chattels found during her Naturall Life, Item I give & bequeath unto my said wife forty pound in Money during the term of her Naturall Life

Item, I give and bequeath unto Samuell Packer my eldest son sixty four acres of Land in the said Towne of Bridgwater which his dwelling house Now Stands upon to have and to hold to him and his heires and assignes forever buting upon West meddow brook in the east side of the said Brooke and Runing east & west alsoe I Give & bequeath unto my said son Samuell Packer and to his heires and assignes for ever five and twenty acres of Land in the said township of Bridgwater which is not yet Layed out; alsoe I give and Bequeath unto my said son Samuell Packer and to his heires and assignes forever one Lott of Meddow Lying in the said Towne of Bridgwater in the West meddow on the south east Syde of a brooke Called by the Name of the west meddow Brooke alsoe I Give unto my said son Samuell Packer and to his heires and assignes for ever one Lott of Meddow Lying in the said Bridgwater Lying in the said Great Meddow on the North east side of the pond Joyning to the pond Item I give and bequeath unto my son Zacheus Packer and to his heires and assignes for ever the house wherin hee my said son Zacheus Packer dwelleth in with the Land with the Land therunto belonging which is foure and twenty acres of Land Lying and being within the township of Bridgwater; aforesaid; also I give unto my said son Zacheus Packer and to his heires and assignes for ever my Lott of Meddow Lying in the said Bridgwater in the west meddow on the North Side of the brook, alsoe I Give and bequeath unto my said son Zacheus Packer and to his heires and assignes for ever a Lott of fifty acres of Land Lying in the said Towne if Bridgwater by the Bay Path bounded on the south side by Marke Laythorpes Land; alsoe I Give and bequeath unto my said son Zacheus Packer one Lott of Meddow to him and to his heirs for ever and assignes for ever Lying and being in the said Towne of Bridgwater in the Great Meddow on the southeast side of the Meddow River. Item I Give and bequeath unto my son John Packer and to his heires and assignes forever seventy acres of meddow Land Lying in the said Bridgwater the Eastward side of the River; alsoe I Give unto my said son John Packer and to his heires and assignes for ever one Lott of Meddow in a Meddow Called Poor Meddow Lying in the said Bridgwater alsoe I Give unto my said son John Packer and to his heires and assignes all my Lott of Land att Teticut; Item I give and Bequeath unto my son Nathaniell Packer; and to his heires and assignes for ever two third prtes of my aforesaid farm lying in Bridgwater which I Now dwell upon Containing thirty six acres, of Land, be it more or Lesse, That is to say of all the houses Lands and Meddowes belonging to the said farme, to enter upon it Imediately after the decease of my said wife; and to have hold and enjoy; the said two third prtes of the said farme; to hime and to his heires and assignes for ever; The whole farm Containing thirty six acres, of land, Be it more or less, Item The other third prte of my said farme that I dwell Now upon in the said Towne of Bridgwater; That is to say one third prte of the houses Land and meddows belonging to the said farme I give & bequeath unto my Grand Child Issraell Agur and to his heires and assignes for ever; hee or they to enter upon it Imediately after the decease of my said wife; Item I Give and bequeath unto my said son Nathaniell: Packer and to his heires and assignes for ever the one half of my lott of fifty acres of Land Lying in the said Bridgwater Next to Joseph Bassett’s Lott Neare to the Pond; alsoe I Give and bequeath unto my said Grand Child Israell Augur, and to his heires & assignes for ever the other halfe of the said Lott of fifty acres of land, to be equally devided Between the said Nathaniel Packer My son and the said Israell Augur, they and both of them to enter upon it Imediately after my decease. Item I Give and bequeath unto my said son Nathaniel Packer and to his heires and assignes for ever the one halfe of my Share of meddow in Bridgwater Lying there att a place called called Bulls hole, hee or they to enter upon it after the decease of my said wife, alsoe I give and bequeath unto my Grand Child Issraell Augur and to his heires and assignes for ever the other half half of my said Share of Meddow Lying [can’t read several words here] after the decease of my said wife,

Item I Give and bequeath unto the said Elizabeth Packer my wife and to her heires heires and assignes for ever all my Lott containing twenty twenty one Acrees of land Lying and Being in Bridgwater, between the Land of Mr James Keith on the one side and the Land of Joseph haward on the other side, buting upon the pond Called Satuckett pond; Item I give and bequeath unto my unto my fouer sones (viz) Samuell Packer Zacheus Packer John Packer and Nathaniell Packer; and to my Grand child Issrael: Augur, and to their heirs and assignes forever, all my Right & title of Comons and Comonage, which I Now have in the Townshipp of Bridgwater to be equally devided betwixt them the five excepting som prticular prsells of land alreddy Given by will and are not yett Layed out and alsoe my will is that my five daughters Mary Phillips, the wife of Richard Phillips and hannah the wife of Tho: Randall Jaell Smith the wife of John Smith and Daborah Washburn the wife of Samuell Washburn and Deliverance Washburn the wife of Thomas Washburn with my Grand Child Deliverance Augur shall have equally devided amongst them six all what mony or Chattels all what shalbe left after the decease of my said wife Elizabeth Packer; alsoe my Will is that as Concerning my daughter Jaell Smith the wife of John Smith that, the prte of the Mony and Chattels above Named that Shalle due to my said daughter Jaell after the decease of my said wife Elizabeth Packer shall of shall not be delivered to the said John Smith; but shalbe desposed of to my said Dau daughter Jaell for her Comfort by the executors of my said Will; alsoe my Will is that my Grand Child Deliverance Augur shall have a heifer; when shee my said Grandchild is of age; and also I Give unto My Grandchild Deliverance Augur one bed; with such furniture to it as is now in the house; I doe mean a feather bed after the decease of My said wife, Elizabeth Packer, alsoe my will is that my said son Nathaniel: Packer shall pay unto my Executors hereafter Mentioned the full and Just sume of ten pounds; mony when hee my said son Nathaniel Packer Shall Come to Injoy his prte of the farme that I have before mensioned and Given him in this My will, Item I give to my two Grandchildren Samuell Packer, and Daniell Packer the son of my son Samuell Packer ten shillings a peece in Mony, to be payed to them by the executors hereafter mensioned. Item I Give to my Grandchild Issraell Parker the son of my son Zacheus Ye other ten shillings in Mony to be payed to him by the executors hereafter mensioned, Item I give to my to my Grandchild Caleb Phillipes the son of Caleb Phillipes ten shillings in Mony; to be payed to him by the Executors hereafter Named Mensioned; Item I Give and bequeath to My Daughter Deliverance the the wife of Thomas Washburn ten acres of land Lying and being in the Township of Bridgwater to be to her & her heires and assignes for ever; which said ten acres is agreed on by the Towne; to lay it Conveniently to the Lott not yett Layed out; And I doe hereby Nominate and Apoint My beloved Wife Elizabeth Packer and my son Samuell Packer; to be Joynt executors of this My last Will, and Testament and I doe hereby Revoak Renounce frustrate and Make void frustrate and Make void all and every Testament and Testaments, Will and Wills heretofore by mee made, & declared either by word or writing and this onely to be taken for my Last Will and Testament and None other, And I desire that Mr James Keith and William Brett should be overseers to this my last Will and Testament; In Witness whereof I the above said Samuell Packer have hereunto sett my hand and seale; the day and year first above written;

Read signed sealed and Published

and declared to be his Will and Testament                                                    Samuell Packer senr Þ his Marke

in the prsence of us Witnesses                                                                                                           And a  (seal)

                John Field

                John Ames Junir

                Shadrack Wilbore

 

John Feild and John Ames Junr made oath the third of March 1684/85 In Court that Samuell Packer Signed sealed and declared this Instrument to be his Last Will and Testament, and that hee was of Disposing Mind when hee did as               Attest Nathaniel Morton

                                                                                                                                                Secretary

John Feild and John Ames Junr: made oath the third of March 1684/85 and declared upon the oath they had taken as above written that the said Samuell Packer Senr declared att the time hee Signed and sealed this Will to be his Last Will and Testament that hee Intended Thomas Washburne to be a Joynt executor of his Last Will & Testament with the other two that in the said Will and mensioned; and accordingly are alowed by the Court as

                                                                                                                Attest Nathaniel: Morton Secretatory

 

An Inventory of the estate of Samuall Packer of the Towne of Bridgwater deceased the seaventh of November 1684 which is as followeth;

[Totaled £133.06.06, not including any real estate]

A true and fair appersall of the estate of Samuell Packer

of the estate of Samuell Packer taken by us the seventh of Novem: 1684 as witnesseth

                                                                                                                our hands Marke Laythorpe

                                                                                                                John Feild

Samuell Packer Junior made oath

to this Inventory before the Court held att Plymouth

the 5th of March 1684/85

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth Colony Records, Wills Vol. 4, Part 2, p. 96-99, and compared with the abstract by George Ernest Bowman published in The Mayflower Descendant, Vol. XV, p. 253-256.

 

 

Will of Asa Page of Walpole, Norfolk County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1817) *

Commonwealth of Massachusetts

SS. Edward H. Robbins Esquire, Judge of the Probate of Wills, and for granting Letters of Administration on the Estate of Persons deceased, having goods, chattels, rights or credits in the County of Norfolk, within the Commonwealth aforesaid.

To all unto whom these Presents shall come, Greeting.

        Know ye, That upon the Day of the Date hereof, before Me; at a Court of Probate at Dedham, in the County aforesaid, the Will of Asa Page, late of Walpole, in said County, Yeoman, deceased, a copy of which is to these Presents annexed, was proved, approved, and allowed: Who having while he lived, and at the Time of his Death, Goods, Chattels, Rights or Credits in the County aforesaid: And the Probate of the said Will, and Power of Committing Administration of all and singular, the Goods, Chattels, Rights and Credits of the said Deceased, by virtue thereof appertaining unto Me: the Administration of all and singular the Goods, Chattels, Rights and Credits of the said Deceased, and of his said Will, in any Manner concerning, is hereby committed unto Oliver Page of Walpole aforesaid, Executor in the same Will named, well and faithfully to execute the said Will, and to administer the Estate of the said Deceased, according thereunto and to make a true and perfect Inventory of all and singular the Goods, Chattels, Rights and Credits of the said Deceased; and to exhibit the same into the Registry of the Court of Probate for the County aforesaid: at or before the sixth day of April next ensuing And also to render a plain and true Account of his said Administration upon Oath, within one year from the date hereof

        In Testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my Hand and the Seal of the said Court of Probate, Dated at Dedham, the sixth Day of January, in the year of our Lord, one thousand eight hundred and eighteen.

Samuel Haven Regr.                                                           Edward H. Robbins Judge of Probate

In the Name of God Amen.

I Asa Page of Walpole, in the County of Norfolk, Yeoman, being weak in body, but of sound and perfect mind and memory, blessed be Almighty God for the same, do make and publish this my last will and testament in the manner and form following, viz.

First, I give and bequeath to my beloved wife Susannah Page all my indoor moveables to be at her disposal, except one bed and my wearing apparel, Also the improvement of convenient room for herself in the dwelling house with my son Oliver Page, during her natural life. I also give her eight bushels of Corn, four bushels rye, seventy five pounds of pork, twenty five pounds of beef, eight pounds of flax, five pounds of wool, twenty five pounds of butter, forty pounds of cheese, and ten dollars of money yearly during her life, also wood cut at the door and sauel sufficient for her use, also the use of a horse and chaise whenever she may have occasion to be provided and paid by my Executor herein after named.

Item.  I give and bequeath to my daughter Mary Whiting in addition to what she has already received twenty dollars to be paid in one year after my decease by my Executor.

Item.  I give and bequeath to my daughter Mille Clarke wife of Lewis Clarke in addition to what she has already received twenty dollars, to be paid in one year after my decease, by my Executor.

Item.  I give and bequeath to my daughter Hannah Perigo, wife of Robert Perigo in addition to what she has already received, twenty dollars to be paid in one year after my decease, by my Executor.

Item.  I give and bequeath to my daughter Lucy Lincoln, wife of Dwella Lincoln, in addition to what she has already received, twenty dollars to be paid in one year, after my decease, by my Executor.

Item.  I give and bequeath to my daughter Sally Smith, wife of Luther Smith, in addition to what she has already received, twenty dollars to be paid in one year after my decease by my Executor.

Item.  I give and bequeath to my grandson Willard Page fifty dollars to be paid in two years after my decease by my Executor.

Item  I give and bequeath to my Grandson Asa Page, twenty five dollars to be paid in four years after my decease, by my Executor.

Item.  I give and bequeath to my Son Oliver Page for the use of my daughter Susanna Page one bed & bedding to be by him kept for her particular use and accommodation and I do further order and direct my said son to support and maintain my said daughter Susanna in a decent and comfortable manner, during her natural life out of the Estate herein devised to him, and I do hereby charge the same with the maintenance of my said daughter.

Item.  I give and bequeath to my Son Oliver Page, he paying all my Just debts, funeral charges and the legacies and bequests herein before mentioned all the rest and residue of my Estate both real and personal of what name or nature soever and wheresoever found, to be holden by him his heirs and assigns that is the said real estate in fee simple forever and the said personal estate at his free and full disposal after my decease.

And lastly, I do hereby constitute and ordain my said Son Oliver Page sole Executor of this my last Will and testament hereby revoking all other and former wills, In Witness whereof, I the said Asa Page have hereunto set my hand and seal this twenty fourth Day of June in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and seventeen.

                                                                                                                                                Asa Page             (seal)

        Signed, sealed, published and declared by the said Asa Page as and for his last Will and testament, in presence of us, who in his presence and in the presence of each other have hereunto subscribed our names as witnesses to the same.

        Joseph Carroll

        Jesse Boyden

        Daniel Page

Commonwealth of Massachusetts

SS. Norfolk ss. At a Court of Probate, held at Dedham, in and for the County of Norfolk, on the first Tuesday of January, in the year of our Lord, one thousand eight hundred and eighteen being the sixth day of said month.

        The foregoing Instrument, purporting to be the last will and Testament of Asa Page, late of Walpole in said County, Yeoman, deceased, being presented for Probate by Oliver Page, the Executor therein named, Joseph Carroll and Jesse Boyden, Witnesses thereto subscribed, appear and make Oath, that they saw the said Asa Page sign, seal, and heard him publish the said Instrument to be his last Will and Testament; and that they with Daniel Page subscribed their Names thereto, as witnesses, in the presence of the said Testator; and that he was then, to the best of their Discernment, of sound and disposing Mind;— I do therefore, by virtue of the Power and Authority given me, hereby approve and allow the said Instrument as the last Will and Testament of the before named deceased, and do decree that it have full Force and effect as such, according to the Law in that base provided.

        Given under my Hand and Seal of Office, the Day and Year above written, Edward H. Robbins Judge of Probate.

Norfolk ss. In Probate Court, at Dedham, within and for the same County of Norfolk on Tuesday the sixth day of January 1818.

        Ordered, That Oliver Page, Executor of the last Will of Asa Page, late of Walpole, deceased, advertise notification of his being Executor as aforesaid, by posting the same up in some public places, at Walpole, in said County, and by publishing it in the Dedham Gazette—printed in Dedham within three months.

        Given under my hand the sixth day of January in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and eighteen.  Edward H. Robbins Judge of Probate

Samuel Haven Regr.

 

Joseph Carroll, Jesse Boyden, and Jason Boyden were appointed to appraise the estate of Asa Page, of Walpole, deceased, on 14 Feb. 1818. The inventory was presented by Oliver Page, executor, on 3 Mar. 1818, and all of the real estate, valued at $2105.00, was owned in common with the said Oliver Page, which included his homestead in Walpole, a wood lot in Foxborough, a “vendue meadow,” a “Bacon meadow,” and a “Boyden lot so called.”

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Norfolk County Probate Vol. 30, pp. 78-81,270-272, from FHL microfilm #0843587.

 

 

Will of John Palmer of Scituate, Plymouth County, Massachusetts Bay (1782) *

In the name of God Amen—This 18th day of November in the year of our Lord 1782—I John Palmer of Scituate in the County of Plymouth, yeoman being advanced in years, but in good health & of a sound and disposing mind & memory, thanks be given to God for the same, do hereby make & ordain this my last will & testament, as follows—first of all, I commit my soul into the hands of that God that made it, and my body to decent burial at the discretion of my Executrix herein after named, and as to what worldly Estate it hath pleased God to bless me with, I Give & dispose of the same as follows, my just debts & funeral charges being first paid by my Executrix hereafter named

Imprimis, I Give & bequeath unto my loving wife, all my Lands lying and being in the Town of Hanover, and the whole of my Personal Estate For her own to dispose of the same as she pleases. I also Give her the use & improvement of all the rest of my real estate, during her natural Life, she paying all my debts & funeral charges

Item—I Give and bequeath unto my Cousin Abigail Neal, the whole of my Real Estate lying and being in the Town of Scituate & elsewhere (except the Land herein before given to my wife) after my wife’s decease, to her & her Heirs and assigns forever

Lastly—I do hereby nominate, constitute and appoint my wife to be Sole Executrix of this my Last will & testament.—In witness whereof I the said John Palmer have hereunto set my hand & Seal the day & year aforesaid

Signed, Sealed, Published, Pronounced

& declared by ye sd John Palmer to be his                                                                       John Palmer                     (seal)

Last will & testament in presence of

                David Stockbridge

                Thomas Hatch

                David Stockbridge junr

 

Presented for probate on 16 Apr. 1794 by Jane Palmer, the Executrix therein named, and proved by Thomas Hatch & David Stockbridge junr, two of the witnesses.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 35, p. 82, from FHL microfilm #0550718.

 

 

Will of Betty Parker of Plympton, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1810) *

   In the Name of God amen – I Betty Parker of Plympton in the County of Plymouth and Commonwealth of Massachusetts (single woman) being weak in Body but of perfect Mind & Memory Thanks be given to God therefor – calling unto Mind the Mortality of my Body, & knowing that it is appointed for all men once to die; do make & ordain this my last Will & Testament and desire it to be received by all men as such – That is to say principally & first of all, I give and recommend my Soul into the hands of God, who gave it – and my Body I recommend to the Earth to be buried in decent Christian Burial at the discretion of my Executor hereafter named nothing doubting but at the general Resurrection,– I shall receive the same again by the mighty Power of God.—

And as touching such worldly Estate wherewith it hath pleased God to bless me in this Life I give demise and dispose of the same in the following Manner and Form —

Imprimis I give and bequeath to my Sister Jerusha Parker the Use & Improvement of all my Real Estate during her natural Life excepting half of a Pew on the lower floor in the meeting house in Plympton –

Item I give to my Sister Molly Gray the Wife of William Gray of Plympton my half of a Pew on the lower floor in the meeting house in Plympton and to her Heirs and assigns forever.—

Item I give and bequeath my Gold Necklace to Betsey Chevers the Wife of Doctor Chevers – the Daughter of my Brother Joseph Parker deceased, and to her Heirs and assigns forever.—

Item I give and bequeath to my Brother Thaddeus Parker & to my Nephew Daniel Parker the Son of Doctor Daniel Parker of Norton, all my Real Estate, after the Decease of my Sister Jerusha Parker together with all the privileges and appurtenances thereunto belonging in equal Division between the said Thaddeus Parker and Daniel Parker and their Heirs & assigns forever—

Item I give and bequeath to my Brother Thaddeus one Feather Bed – to be in his Care and kept in reserve for Betsey Backus his Granddaughter, and to be delivered to her by him when she shall arrive to Eighteen years of Age —

And I do positively order my Sister Jerusha Parker to pay all my Just debts & funeral Expences.—

Item all the rest & residue of all my Estate not before disposed of in this my last Will & Testament together with all debts due by Bond Book or Note, I give & bequeath to my Sister Jerusha Parker & to her Heirs forever—

Lastly I do constitute make & ordain my Sister Jerusha Parker my sole Executor of this my last Will & Testament, &, I do hereby utterly disallow, revoke & disannul all & every other former Will & Testament, Legaises, Bequests & Executors, by me in any way before named, willed or bequeathed, ratifying this & no other to be my last Will and Testament. In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand & Seal, this Twenty sixth day of April, in the Year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred & ten.  1810 –

Signed sealed, pronounced & declared by the said Betsey Parker

as her last Will & Testament in the presence of us the Subscribers.

                Elijah Bisbe

                Polycarpus Parker                                                                                               Betty Parker                                      (seal)

                William Bisbe

 

Presented for probate on 2 July 1810 by Jerusha Parker, the Executrix therein named, and proved by Elijah Bisbe Esqr. and William Bisbe, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Jerusha Parker, the before named Executrix.

No inventory of her estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 43, p. 235-236, from FHL microfilm #0550902.

 

 

Will of Jerusha Parker of Plympton, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1817) *

                In the name of God, Amen – I Jerusha Parker of Plympton in the County of Plymouth and Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Single-woman, being weak in body but of perfect mind and memory, thanks be given to God therefor – calling unto mind the mortality of my body, and knowing that it is appointed for all men once to die do make and ordain this my last Will and Testament – and desire it may be received by all as such – that is to say – Principally and first of all I give and recommend my Soul into the hands of God who gave it: And my body I recommend to the earth to be buried in decent Christian burial, at the discretion of my Executrix hereafter named – nothing doubting but at the general resurrection I shall receive the same again by the mighty power of God —

                And as touching such worldly estate wherewith it has pleased God to bless me in this life, I give, demise and dispose of the same in the following manner and form —

  Imprimis. I give and bequeath to my sister Molly Gray of Plympton in the County and Commonwealth aforesaid, widow of William Gray, late of said Plympton, Trader, deceased, all my estate, whither it be real, personal or mixed, together with all the privileges and appurtenances thereunto belonging, to her the said Molley Gray and to her heirs and assigns forever.

   Item – I also give and bequeath to my said sister Molley Gray, and to her heirs and assigns forever, all my wearing apparel together with all my money on hand, and debts due, whither by hand, book or Note —

                And I do absolutely order my sister Molley Gray to pay all my just debts and funeral charges.

  Lastly – I do constitute, make and ordain my sister Molly Gray my sole Executor of this my last Will and Testament – and I do hereby utterly disallow, revoke and disannul all and every other former Will and Testament, legacies and executors, by me in any way before named, willed or bequeathed – ratifying and confirming this, and no other, to be my last Will and Testament.

                In witness Whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and seal this third day of June in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and seventeen.

                                                                                                                                                Jerusha Parker                                 (seal)

                Signed, sealed, pronounced and declared by the said Jerusha Parker as her last Will and Testament in the presence of us the subscribers.

                Elijah Bisbee

                William Bisbee

                Elijah Bisbee 2d

 

Presented for probate on the first Tuesday of July 1837 by Molly Gray, the Executor therein named, and proved by Elijah Bisbee 2d, one of the witnesses whose names are subscribed thereto, Elijah Bisbee and William Bisbee both now being deceased. Letters Testamentary were granted to Molly Gray, the Executor therein named.

No inventory of her estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 79, p. 255-256, from FHL microfilm #0555265.

 

 

Will of Jonathan Parker of Plympton, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1776) *

In the Name of God Amen on the Twenty first Day of March Anno Domini One Thousand Seven hundred and Seventy Six I Jonathan Parker of Plymton in the County of Plymouth Clerk being Weak in Body but of a Sound & Disposing Mind & Memory Proceed to make this my Last Will & Testament In the first Place I Give & Recommend my Soul into the hands of God who Gave it Trusting in the Mercy of God Through Jesus Christ for Pardon Grace & Glory and as to my Worldly Interest I Dispose of in the following Manner Vizt. my Will is that my Debts & Funeral Charges be paid in a Convenient Time after my Decease~

Item I Give & Bequeath to my Well Beloved Wife Lydia my Land on which I now Live Including my Dwelling House Barn & Chair House & also My Fresh Meadows Lying in Winnatuxet Meadows which I Purchased of SouthWorth Howland and Timothy Ripley & also my Pew in the New Meeting~House in the first Precinct in Said Plymton and Also the Fences I Erected on the Parsonage Land in said Plymton and also my Right In the Library in the first Precinct in Said Plymton all which I Give to my Said Wife & to her Heirs and Assigns forever And Also I Give unto my said Wife all my Personal Estate which I have not otherwise Disposed of In this Will In Consideration of all which Legacy Above Expressed I Expect that my Said Wife will do all She can Toward Bringing up & Providing for my five Daughters Namely Lydia Bette Molly Jerusha and Harmony and to Give unto them what She thinks Proper out of the Above Legacy After haveing paid my Debts & funeral Charges & I do Nominate & Appoint my Said Wife Sole Executrix of this my Last Will & Testament ~~

Item I Give & Bequeath unto my son Jonathan that Tract of Land which I Purchased of David Weston in Said Plymton whereon the Said Jonathan now lives with the Buildings & Appurtenances thereon and also a Piece of Cedar Swamp Purchased of Said Weston to him the said Jonathan & to his Heirs & Assigns forever he the Said Jonathan Pasturing One Cow for my Said Wife so Long as She Shall Remain my Widow Yearly & Every Year from the Twentyeth Day of May to the Twentyeth Day of November Six Months in a Year She my Said Wife Acquiting her Right of Dower in the Premises Given to Said Jonathan & my Will is that my Son Jonathan Pay to my Granddatter Ruth Bishop of Norey the Daughter of John Bishop the Sum of Eighteen Shillings Lawfull Money & also that he the Said Jonathan Pay to all the Rest of my Grand Children which my Datter Ruth Bishop Left Late of Norey Deceased the Sum of Three Sillings Lawfull Money to Each of them in Twelve Months after my Decease & Also that my Son Jonathan Pay a Note of hand which Mary Bryant has against me for the Sum of Ten Pounds Lawful Money with the Interest Due upon Said Note he the Said Jonathan Doing which I Discharge him the Said Jonathan from Paying any demands which I have Against him By Bonds or Notes of hand or Book Debts Provided he the Said Jonathan Bring in No Accounts Against my Estate.

Item I Give & Bequeath to my son Avery One of my House Lots of Land the Back Lot near where the Said Avery now Lives in the Township of Dartmouth to him & his Heirs and Assigns forever Said Avery Paying a Note of hand which Hopestill Bisbe of Rochester has upon me for the Sum of Twenty Pounds Lawfull Money – with the Interest due upon Sd. Note and also the Sd. Avery Settle the Accounts Relating to my Part of a Sloop Named Subply and Pay to my Executrix what is Justly due to me upon Said Account & he the Sd. Avery Doing of this I discharge him the Sd. Avery from all demands whatsoever which I have against him by Bonds Notes of Hand or Book Debts ~

Item I give & Bequeath unto my Son Thadeus my other House Lot of Land the foremost Lot in the Township of Dartmouth to him & to his Heirs & Assigns forever ~.

Item I give & Bequeath unto my five Sons Jonathan Avery Daniel Joseph & Thaddeus and to their Heirs and Assigns forever all my Right in the Lands at Deleware Purchased of the Indians by a Large number of Persons belonging to the Neighbouring Governments to be equally divided between them

Item I give & Bequeath unto my Son Daniel my Silver knee Buckles

Item I give & Bequeath unto my Son Joseph my Silver Shoe Buckles ~

Item I give & Bequeath unto my Daughter Lydia my Gold Sleve Buttons Rattifying & Confirming this & no other to be my last Will & Testament In witness whereof I have hereunto Set my Hand & Seal the Day & Year above written

Signed Sealed Published & Pronounced

& declared by the Sd. Jonathan Parker

to be his last Will & Testament in                                                                                                    his

Presence of us                                                                                                                      Jonathan  §  Parker                              (seal)

Silas Sturtevant                                                                                                                                   mark

William Ripley Junr

Gideon Bradford

 

Presented for probate on 6 May 1776 by Lydia Parker, the Executrix therein named, and proved by Gideon Bradford Esqr. and William Ripley Junr., two of the witnesses thereto Subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Lydia Parker, the before named Executrix, with Gideon Bradford Esqr. and Ignatius Loring Esqr, both of Plymton, as sureties.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 24, p. 101-103, from FHL microfilm #0550713.

 

 

Will of Jonathan Parker of Plympton, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1851) *

   In the name of God Amen. Be it known that I Jonathan Parker of Plympton in the County of Plymouth and Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Yeoman, being of sound and disposing mind, thanks be given to God for the same, calling to mind the mortality of my body, and knowing that it is appointed unto all men once to die, do on this Ninth day of January in the year of our Lord Eighteen hundred and fifty one, make and ordain this my last will and Testament, and desire it may be received by all persons, as such, principally and first of all, I give and recommend my Soul into the hands of God who gave it, and my body I recommend to the earth, to be buried in a decent Christian burial, at the discretion of my Executor hereinafter named; and as to such worldly estate wherewith it has pleased God to bless me with, I dispose of the same as follows, to wit: –

  Imprimis I give and bequeath to my wife Susanna Parker, the Eight hundred Dollars, which our marriage Contract specifies, and all her household furniture and other property she brought into my house when she came to live with me; Also I give her the use and improvement of my West front room and bed room adjacent (called the nursery) with a privilege in the pantry, Cellar, oven, wood house and well, for her use and improvement so long as she the said Susanna remains my widow.

Item 2d. I give and bequeath to my two daughters, unmarried, Abigail Parker and Hannah Parker One hundred Dollars each, and a home in my house so long as they the said Abigail & Hannah remain single. –

Item 3d I give and bequeath to my son Zacheus Parker, the amount of the account I hold against him. –

Item 4th I give and bequeath to my son Jonathan Parker Jr his heirs and assigns forever, my homestead farm and buildings thereon standing, farming tools and carriages, (excepting the above named reservations and privileges to my wife and daughters) in case, the said Jonathan shall give up and relinquish the Caleb Loring legacy I owe him, and the interest thereon due. –

Item 5th. I give and bequeath to my children, Polly, wife of Isaiah Churchill, Zacheus Parker, Silence wife of Joshua C Thompson, Lucy wife of Thomas Loring, Betsey, wife of Josiah S Hammond, Abigail Parker, Hannah Parker and Jonathan Parker Jr their heirs and assigns forever to be equally divided between them, all the remainder of my real and personal estate, after my just debts and funeral or incidental expenses, shall have been paid. –

  Lastly, I do constitute make and appoint my son Zaccheus Parker my sole Executor of this my last Will and Testament, revoking all others heretofore made – And I order my Executor to see that the contract and reservation before named to my wife Susanna Parker, fulfilled, and all my just debts and expenses paid, according to the true intent of this my last Will and Testament. –

    Signed, sealed, and published by the said Jonathan Parker, declaring this to be his last Will and Testament in presence of us, who at his request were called as witness to the same, and in his presence did hereto subscribe our names

        Wm H Soule                                                                                                                                his

        Zacheus Sherman                                                                                                        Jonathan  X  Parker                             (seal)

        Oliver Churchill Jr.                                                                                                                     mark

 

Presented for probate on the first Tuesday of Mar. 1851 by Zacheus Parker, the Executor therein named, and proved by William H Soule and Zacheus Sherman, two of the Witnesses whose names are subscribed thereto. Letters Testamentary were granted to Zacheus Parker, the Executor therein named.

 

Zacheus Parker, of Plympton, was appointed as Executor of the last Will and Testament of Jonathan Parker, late of Plympton, Esquire, on 4 Mar. 1851, with William H. Soule and Zacheus Sherman, both of Plympton, as sureties.

William H. Soule, Zacheus Sherman and John P. Ellis, all of Plympton, were appointed to appraise the estate of Jonathan Parker, late of Plympton, on 4 Mar. 1851.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Jonathan Parker, late of Plympton, was dated 5 Apr. 1851 and totaled $14,773.06, his real estate totaled $9283.50, including his homestead farm and buildings valued at $4920, and his personal estate totaled $14,773.06, including back stock, insurance stock, and railroad stock. Zacheus Parker, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on the second Monday of Apr. 1851.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 93, pp. 95-96, 163-165, from FHL microfilm #0555641, and Vol. 2H, p. 255.

 

 

Will of Lydia Parker of Plympton, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1793) *

        In the name of God Amen. I Lydia Parker of Plymton in the county of Plymouth, being thro’ the great goodness of God of a sound, disposing mind & memory and sensible of my own mortality do constitute & establish this as my last will & testament, my soul I commend to God who gave it, and in certain hope of a resurrection, and will that my body be buried in a decent christian manner, and as to my worldly substance, I dispose of it as followeth

        Imprimis—I Give & bequeath to my three sons, Daniel, Joseph & Thaddeus, & to my two daughters Lydia & Harmony, Six shillings a piece

        Item.—I Give & bequeath to my three daughters Betty or Elisabeth, Molly & Jerusha all the rest of my estate, whether real, personal or mixed, and in the following manner—vizt.—I Give to my Daughter Betty or Elisabeth one half of all my land, including half of my dwelling house & barn, & of my Pew in the meeting house, to her & to her heirs & assigns forever; also one half of all debts due to me, whether in notes of hand or on book, & of all my other estate of whatever name or description—

        Item.—I Give, in equal division, to my two daughters Molly & Jerusha, the other half of all my land, including half of the buildings aforesaid & of my Pew in the meeting house, to them & to their heirs & assigns forever—also I bequeath equally to these, my two daughters, the remaining half of all debts due to me, & of all my other estate of any kind or description whatever.—And it is my will that my just debts should be paid & my funeral charges defrayed, one half by my daughter Betty & the other half jointly & equally by my daughters Molly & Jerusha—and I appoint & constitute my daughter Betty Sole Executrix of this my last will & testament—and I earnestly & affectionately recommend to all my children, & particularly to my three daughters last mentioned, that they would shew kindness to my daughter Harmony & afford her aid, comfort & assistance as far as they shall find themselves able.—In Testimony of all which, I do hereunto set my hand & Seal this 15th Day of August one thousand seven hundred & ninety three ~

Signed Sealed & delivered                                                                                                 Lydia Parker                     (seal)

in presence of us

                Ezra Sampson

                Joshua Churchill

                Sylvanus Bartlett

 

Presented for probate on 7 Oct. 1799 by Betty Parker, the Executrix therein named, and proved by Sylvanus Bartlett, one of the witnesses thereto subscribed.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 37, p. 133, from FHL microfilm #0550719.

 

 

Will of Oliver Parker of Plympton, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1833) *

        In the name of God, Amen. I, Oliver Parker of Plympton in the County of Plymouth, and Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Gentleman, being weak of body, but of perfect mind and memory, thanks be given to God therefor, calling to mind the mortality of my body, and knowing that it is appointed for all men once to die — Do make and ordain this my last Will and Testament, and desire it may be received by all men as such – And first of all I give and bequeath my soul into the hands of God who gave it, – and my body I recommend to the earth to be buried in a decent and christian burial, at the discretion of my Executor hereafter named, nothing doubting but at the General Resurrection I shall receive the same again by the Mighty Power of God — And as touching such worldly estate wherewith it has pleased God to bless me with in this life, I give, devise and dispose of the same in the following manner and form.

        Item. I give and bequeath unto my beloved wife Pheby Parker all the use and improvement of all my Real and Personal Estate excepting my hamer shop, so long as she remains my widow.

        Item. I give and bequeath unto my sons Oliver Parker and Ira Parker my Hamer shop, and all the privilege thereunto belonging after my son Ira Parker shall be twenty one years of age – and after that time I order my two sons Oliver Parker and Ira Parker to pay my widow Phebe Parker ten dollars each yearly, so long as she remains my widow – And the said Oliver Parker shall pay my widow Pheby Parker the third part of the income or profits of the Shingle mill on said Hamer shop dam.

        Item. I give and bequeath unto my son Ira Parker my ten acre wood lot, which is called the Holmes lot, and all my wearing apparel and the reversion of my part of the shingle mill on said Hamer shop dam –

        Item. I give and bequeath unto my daughters, namely, Charity, Eliza, Pheby, Caroline and Mariah Parker all my Household Furniture an stock, that is Cows and young creatures to be equally divided between them, when their mother sees fit to let them have it.

        Item. I give and bequeath all my Real and Personal Estate not before disposed of, and after my just debts and funeral charges is paid, and my widow has had the use and improvement as is before expressed unto my following named children, viz. Jacob Parker, Charity Parker, Eliza Parker Phebe E. Parker, Jerusha Cobb, Caroline Parker, Mariah Parker, to be equally divided between them.

        And my will is, and I do positively order my Executor hereafter named, to pay all my just debts and funeral expenses.

 Lastly. I do constitute, make and ordain Jonathan Parker of Plympton my sole Executor of this my last Will and Testament – and I do hereby utterly disallow, revoke and disanul all and every other Will and Testament by me, in any wise before willed, named or bequeathed, ratifying this and no other to be my last Will and Testament.

                In Witness Whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and seal this twenty fourth day of January in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and thirty three.

                                                                                                                                                Oliver Parker                                    (seal)

        Signed, sealed, pronounced and declared, by the said Oliver Parker to be his last Will and Testament, in the presence of us the subscribers.

        John P. Ellis

        Josiah Wright Jr

        Caroline Parker.

 

Presented for probate on 11 Apr. 1836, and proved by John P. Ellis and Josiah Wright Jr, two of the subscribing witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Jonathan Parker of Plympton, Esqr, on 11 Apr. 1836.

 

Zacheus Sherman, Barzillai E. Wright and Isaac Wright Junr, all of Plympton, were appointed to appraise the estate of Oliver Parker, late of Plympton, Yeoman, on 11 Apr. 1836. The Inventory of the Estate of Oliver Parker, late of Plympton, dated 13 Apr. 1836, totaled $4573.46, including his real estate valued at $3366.75. Jonathan Parker, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 1 Nov. 1836.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 78, pp. 155-157, 407-408, from FHL microfilm #0555264.

 

 

Will of Polycarpus Parker of Plympton, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1819) *

   Be it remembered that I Polycarpus Parker of Plympton County of Plymouth Housewright, considering my bodily Infirmities & the uncertainty of this mortal Life, but being of a sound Mind & memory do make & publish this my last Will & Testament in the manner following viz –

   First. I give my Soule to God, who gave it, to be disposed of according to his holy pleasure & my Body I resign to the Grave to turn to dust firmly believing I shall receive the same again, when the Lord Jesus Christ shall appear in Supreme Majesty & Authority to raise the dead –

   Secondly I give & bequeath to my well beloved Wife Sarah all my personal Estate, excepted what is hereafter named to be at her use and disposal forever also the Improvement of all my real Estate, as compensation for taking Care of & bringing up my youngest Son Joseph Avery untill he is of a suitable Age to be put to a Trade – And after my Son Joseph Avery shall have arrived at the Age above mentioned my wife Sarah shall improve only her thirds of my real Estate –

   Thirdly I give & bequeath to my oldest Son Stephen all my Carpenter’s Tools –

        And to my three daughters Viz Mercy Marick, Susan & Polly Gray, I give in equal Division all the personal Estate that belonged to their Mother – Mercy and all that their Sister Abigail deceased has left. –

        Fourthly I I give to my two youngest sons, William Gray & Joseph Avery, all the personal Estate that belonged to their Mother Susan in equal Division –

        Lastly I give to all of my Children in equal Division all my household Furniture, which I now have & did not come by either of my Wives, Also all my real Estate to be equally divided among all my children, after my Wife Sarah shall have taken the Improvement as above named –

        And I do direct my wife Sarah to pay all my just Debts & funeral Charges and to receive all that is now due to me.–

        Moreover I do herein appoint my wife Sarah Sole Executrix of this my last will & Testament hereby revoking all former Wills made by me –

signed sealed published & declared by the abovenamed

Polycarpus Parker to be his last Will & Testament

in the presence of us who have hereunto set our                                                           Polycarpus Parker                          (seal)

Names as Witnesses this 14th day of December in

the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred & nineteen

1819                       Elijah Dexter

                                Avery Deane

                                Jonathan Parker Jr.

 

Presented for probate on 4 Apr. 1820 by Sarah Parker, the Executrix therein named, and proved by Revd. Elijah Dexter, Avery Deane, and Jonathan Parker Junr. Esqr., the witnesses. Letters Testamentary were granted to Sarah Parker, the Executrix.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 50, p. 557-558, from FHL microfilm #0550906.

 

 

Will of Martin Parris of Kingston, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1838) *

        The last Will and Testament of Martin Parris.

I Martin Parris of Kingston, in the County of Plymouth, formerly Pastor of the first Church and Society in Marshfield in said County, thinking myself to be in the exercise of my mental facilities, though impaired in bodily health, do make and declare this to be my last Will and Testament.

        I give and bequeath to Albion K. Parris son of my brother Samuel Parris all the Books, papers, and manuscripts, that my father left me at his decease, and all the Books in my Library that are in other languages, than the English language.

        I give to each of the following three persons, fifty dollars, namely, Mary S. Ford wife of Consider Ford, Welthea Lewis, daughter of the Widow Welthea Lewis, and Rachel Moorehead daughter of John Moorehead, each of whom have lived in my family. This is given on account of their good and faithful conduct while in my family. Also I give unto the said Mary S. Ford Scott’s Family Bible and President Davies’ Sermons, each in three volumes. This I do on account of the kind affection that subsisted between her and my two sons, Martin S. Parris and Samuel B. Parris both of whom are now deceased.

        I give unto my wife Julia D. Parris all my other Estate real, personal and of all kinds, to her, her heirs and assigns forever.

        I also appoint my wife Julia D. Parris sole Executrix to this my last Will and Testament.

        In witness whereof I have hereunto set my name and seal this first day of November in the Year of Our Lord Eighteen hundred and thirty eight.

                                                                                                                                                Martin Parris                                    (seal)

Signed, sealed and declared by the said Martin Parris to be his last Will and Testament in presence of us who at his request & in his presence and in the presence of each other have hereunto set our names as Witnesses.

        Asaph Holmes

        Stephen Holmes 2d

        Caleb Bates

 

Presented for probate on the third Monday of January 1840 by Julia D. Parris, the Executor therein named, and proved by Asaph Holmes and Stephen Holmes 2d, two of the witnesses.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 82, p. 2-3, from FHL microfilm #0555266.

 

 

Will of George Partridge of Duxbury, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1764) *

The Last will & testament of George Partridge of Duxborough in the county of Plymouth in the province of the Massachusetts-Bay in New-England housewright. I the said George Partridge being under many bodily infirmities yet of perfect mind & memory, thanks be given to almighty God therefor, & calling to mind the mortality of my body, & knowing that it is appointed for all men once to die, do upon serious consideration make & ordain these presents to be my Last will & testament, to remain firm & inviolable forever. That is to say, principally & first of all I give & recomend my soul into the hands of God that gave it, & my body I recomend to the earth to be buried in decent christian manner at the discretion of my executor herein after namd, nothing doubting but at the general resurrection I shall receive the same again by the almighty power of God, & as touching such worldly estate wherewith it hath pleased God to bless me in this Life, I give, devise, & dispose of the same in the following manner and form. ~

Imprs. I give & bequeath unto my eldest son Samuel Partridge all that my farm or plat of Land known by the name of the Wiswal place Laying in Duxborough aforesaid, and is all that part of the purchase that I made of Mr. Peleg Wiswall of Boston that layeth to the southward of the home farm of Jacob Peterson in said Duxborough. ~

Item, I give & bequeath unto my son James Partridge five pounds, & all my wearing apparel, together with what he hath already received of the estate of my uncle mr. James Partridge that was given to me, I consented he should take the deed in his own name. ~

Item, I give & bequeath unto my daughter Mable Coomer wife to Willm. Comer, three pounds, together with what she hath already had, & in case she should be a widdow my son George Partridge herein-after named is to pay her, forty shillings every year during her widdowhood. ~

Item. I give & bequeath unto my daughter Sarah Partridge wife to John Partridge, three pounds, together with what she hath already had. ~

Item, I give & bequeath unto my two grandchildren, Zibar Hunt, & Sarah Hunt, six pounds, equally to be divided between them. ~

Item, I give & bequeath unto my grand-son Partridge Rickerson one bed & Furniture belonging to it & five pounds in money. ~

Item. I give & bequeath unto my dear & Loving wife Hannah Partridge the improvement of one third part of my home-farm, on which I now dwell, to improve during her widowhood; & a privilege of cutting fire wood for her fire & fencing stuff for said farm, during sd. term, & a bed & furniture, & houshold stuff sufficient to keep house with, during her widdowhoold, and at the expiration of her widdowhood, it is to belong to my son George Partridge herein named. ~

Item. I give & bequeath unto my youngest son George Partridge, my home farm on which I now dwell, & my pew or seat in the meeting house in sd. Duxborough, & a wood-lot, being the first lot in number in the Last division of Duxboro’ comons, Laying near a pond, called Island-creek-pond, & my right in the eleventh lot in the sd. division; & two pieces of salt-marsh lying adjacent to Sprague,s neck, near six acres of them, & purchased of mr. James Partridge decd. & an island of marsh known by the name of Soul’s island, laying to the northward of Powder-point in sd. Duxboro’, & all the remainder of my estate both real & personal after my debts & funeral charges are paid, & the Legacies or gifts, or dower herein before named are paid, I give to my son George Partridge be it in bills, bonds, book-debts or notes whatsoever, ordering him to provide for my wife during her widowhood, if what I have herein before given her shall not be sufficient for her comfortable support.

Lastly. My will is that my son George Partridge above-named be sole executor of this my Last will & testament, thus hoping that this my Last will be kept & performed, according to the true intent & meaning thereof. In witness whereof, I the said George Partridge have hereunto set my hand & seal this fourteenth day of May anno Domini one thousand, seven hundred & sixty four, 1764.

Signed, sealed, & declared by the aforenamd.                                                               George Partridge                            (seal)

George Partridge to be his Last will & testamt.

in presence of us.  Elijah Tower, Joshua Stanford, Jonathan Peterson

 

Presented for probate on 4 Apr. 1768 by George Partridge, the Executor therein named, and proved by Elijah Tower and Joshua Stanford, two of the witnesses, Jonathan Peterson being since deceased. Letters of Administration were granted to George Partridge, the Executor, with Briggs Alden Esqr. and Joshua Stanford gent., all of Duxborough, as sureties.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 20, p. 56-57, from FHL microfilm #0550711.

 

 

Will of Thomas Pearsall of Hempstead Harbour, Hempstead, Queens County, Province of New York (1759) *

I Thomas Pearsall of Hempstead Harbour in the Town of Hempstead in Queens County on Nasau Island in the Province of New York Yeoman being this ninth day of the Eighth month called August in the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and fifty nine but weak of body and far advanced in years but my understanding sound and not knowing how soon my final Change may come am Willing to set my house in order against that approaching time do therefore make and Ordain this present writing to contain my last Will and Testament for the disposall of my outward Estate in manner following  Imprimis I Will unto my well beloved Wife Sarah Pearsall all the money which I have due to me and have in my house she paying all my just debts (except those debts which I owe upon bond which I shall order to be paid otherwise). Item I Will and bequeath unto my Son Thomas my Son Samuel and the Widow of my deceased Son Nathaniel all my wearing apparel to be equally devided amongst them the said Widow to have her third thereof for the use of her Sons  I Will and bequeath unto my Son Thomas my great Book Set out by Isaac Penington to his disposal and also my half of the Still and the Tubb belonging  Item I Will unto my Grand Son James Mott one young Horse to his disposall  Item I Will unto my Wife Sarah Pearsall for and in lieu of her right of dower and for keeping and maintaining my old Negro man Jack as long as my Wife lives the following Articles Viz. two good fether beds and full furniture and all my Negro’s Bedding and all my Grain either growing Cut or in Store at the time of my decease and all my Flax Wool and Yarn and new Cloath and Cattells Hides Lether and Sope and Meat and all other Provisions which I have in Store in my House either to Eate or Drink and one of my Negro men and one of my Negro Women such of them as she shall chuse and my Negro Girl named Priss and if I should chance to dye when I have Cattle a fatling my Wife shall have them for the provision of herself & Family all to my Wifes disposal  I Will and bequeath all my Printed Books to my Wife Sarah, Sarah Pearsall my Son Samuell Pearsall my daughter Sarah Alsop my daughter Hannah Hawxhurst my daughter Mary Seaman and my daughter in Law Mary Pearsall (the Widow of my Son Nathaniel Pearsall) to be equally devided amongst them and to their free disposal  Item I Will unto my Wife the equal one fifth part of my moveable Estate Except what is before disposed off  I Will the one fifth part of my said moveable Estate to my daughter Sarah Alsop (Except as before excepted)  I Will the one fifth part to my daughter Mary Seaman and the one fifth part of my moveable Estate I Will to my Executors to the intent they allow and permit my daughter Hannah Hawxhurst to have the use and interest thereof or her Children as they shall Judge most convenant with the Principal at such time as they shall Judge proper and the remainder fifth part of my said moveables (excepted as before excepted) I order to be sold and turned in to money by my Executors and I Will ten pounds of the money to my Son Samuel Pearsall I Will ten Pounds of said money unto my daughter in Law Mary Pearsall for the use of her Children I Will the remainder of said fifth part unto my grand daughter Elizabeth Hicks on condition that her Father Benjamin Hicks pays the money he owes on Bond to me for the use of my grand Son James Mott but if my Executors cannot recover the money from Benjamin Hicks then then the said remainder of said fifth part I Will to my Grand Son James Mott or so much as will clear the Bond at five pr Cent Interest upon Interest  I Will and bequeath unto my Son Thomas Pearsall his heirs and assigns (on condition hereafter Exprest) my Houses Buildings lands and improvements whereon I now dwell at Hempstead Harbour butted and Bounded as followeth on the West by Hempstead Harbour on the North by Jacob Motts Land on the East by Masketicove Road that leads to the plains on the South partly by Sylvenus Townsends Land and partly by Michael Mudges Land and partly by the Highway that leads to the landing by my house untill it runs so far Westerly as Mudges land and thence running Southerly by his land to William Kirks land thence by Kirks land to the said Hempstead Harbour be it Quantity of Acres more or less and also I Will unto my Son Thomas his heirs and assigns on the like condition a piece of Wood land lying upon the Harbour Hills bounded on the East by Timothy Townsends Lands on the South by Michael Mudges land and on the West by Richard Valentines Land and on the North East by the high way be it in Quantity of Acres more or less on condition in the first place my Wife to have and hold the best Room in my house and as much Cellar Room as she shall have accasion to use and free liberty to get fire wood for her use of the Land above given my Son Thomas (but not to Sell any Timber) and my Son Thomas or his heirs Executors &t. to find and provide fother and Pasture for two Cowes and two horses for my Wifes use and also my Wife to have a convenant and sufficient plot of ground for a garden to Raise and Plant Roots Pulse &t. for her use with free liberty of giting Aples in the Orchard or Orchards on the land I now live on all which said Priviledges above given to my Wife to be & remain unto her dureing her Widowhood and no longer the second condition is that my Son Thomas or his heirs or Executors do give good Security to my other Executors within six months after my decease for the Payment of twelve hundred pounds of Current money to be paid in three Equal payments of four hundred pounds each payment the first payment to be the first day of the fifth month next Ensuing after my decease and the second payment the next after the first and the third payment two years after the first payment and out of the first payment I Will my Wife twenty pounds to her disposall  I Will twenty pounds to be put in my Executors hands to pay the charge in the Law in the defence of the Title of my lands if occasion may require  I Will two hundred and Seventy pounds of money of the first payment to pay any debts if it be required that I owe on Bond  I also Will out of the first payment Sixty pounds unto my Son Samuel Pearsall and to his disposall  I Will and bequeath unto my grand daughter Sarah Pearsall the daughter of my deceased Son Nathaniel the sum of thirty pounds out of the first payment and out of the second payment I Will unto my Son Thomas Eighty pounds Current money to make satisfaction to him for the land I bought of George Weekes which my Son Lost  I also Will that three hundred and twenty pounds of the second payment shall be put out at interest by my Executors and my Wife to have ye. use or interest yearly as long as she remains my Widow and my Will is out of the last four hundred pounds I Order three hundred and fifty pounds to be put out at Interest and the interest yearly paid to my Wife during the time she remains my Widow as aforesaid  I also Will to my Son Samuel Twenty five pounds Current money  I Will unto my Grand daughter Jane Pearsall the daughter of my deceased Son Nathaniel the sum of twenty five pounds Current money  And my Will is further after my Wifes decease the principall money that I have above Ordered to be put out I Will devise and dispose of as followeth  I Will to my Son Thomas twenty pounds Current money  I Will to my aforesaid grand daughter Sarah Pearsall the sum forty pounds Current money  I Will unto my grand daughter Jane the sum of forty five pounds current money  Item I Will and bequeath unto my daughter in Law Mary Mary Pearsall and her two youngest daughters Mary and Hannah Pearsall the sum of Eighty five pounds Current money  Item I Will and bequeath unto my Son Samuel the sum of one hundred and Sixty pounds Current money  I Will and bequeath unto my daughter Sarah Alsop the sum of Eighty pounds Current money  I also Will and bequeath unto my Executors the sum of eighty pounds Current money for the use of my daughter Hannah Hawxhurst and her Children and to be put out at Interest for their use and to be paid unto them by my Executors at such time or times when they may have the most occasion for the same or in case my daughter Hannah should Chance to be a Widow before the money is paid them my daughter Hannah to have the whole at her disposall  I Will to my daughter Mary Seaman the sum of Eighty pounds Current Money  Item I Will to my grand daughter Elizabeth Hicks the sum of Eighty pounds to be put out at Interest for her use and if she behaves well and Soberly my Executors to pay her the said money when she is of age if my executors have got all the money her Father Benjm. Hicks owes me on Bond but if my Executors have not got all the money they are required to keep it out of the Eighty pounds and notwithstanding what is before written my Will is in case my grand daughter Misbehaves my Executors may and are hereby required to pay the remainder of what is left to some of her Brothers at their discretion and Whereas I have been at Charge in a great measure to bring up and Educate my grand Son James Mott I do therefore Order my Executors to take and receive the sum of five pounds for the use of my daughters when he is of Lawfull age but in case the said James Mott should dye under age and leave no lawfull Child then I do order my Executors to demand a reasonable reward for his Education and for the trouble I have been at in keeping of him to be paid be paid out of his Estate to be Judged by Impartial men and what they Judge my daughters to have, and my Will is further in Case any of my daughters should dye before they receive their portions that then their Children respectively to have their Mothers portions and my Will is further Incase my Son Thomas or his heirs Executors &t. do refuse or neglect to give good and Satisfactory Security to my Executors for the payment of the said twelve hundred pounds as above mentioned in three equall payments as before Exprest that then it shall and may be lawfull for any or either of my other Executors to sell and dispose of all the house lands Buildings and Improvements given to my Son Thomas and that they or any of my other Executors shall give a good and lawfull Title to the purchasers for the same or any part thereof and to pay the said twelve hundred pounds and to put out part of the money to interest for my Wifes use and to follow the rules and orders respecting the dispossitions thereof as before directed  I Will unto my son Thomas Pearsall his heirs and assigns a Small piece of land lying on on the East side and near the head of Hendrick Onderdonck Mill Swamp lying in partnership with Richard Valentine  I Will unto my Son Thomas Pearsall his heirs & assigns all my undivided lands and Meadows in the Township of Hempstead and my Will is notwithstanding I have given my Son Samuel is a Clear gift yet it is my Will that the money he owes me for the use of James Mott shall be taken out of his Legacy by my Executors and paid where it is due  Item I Will all my Swine that I have or may have at the time of my decease unto my Wife and to her free disposal  Item my Will is that my Wife shall have the use and proffet of all my Negroes during her Widowhood and my Will is that I have ordered above said Sum of Money to pay my debts which I owe upon Bond and in case the money which I have ordered for that purpose should overgoe those debts I Will the remainder to my Wife  I also Will the use of my Clock and Cockle sive to my Wife her Widowhood and after to my daughters  Lastly I do constitute Ordain and appoint my Son Thomas Pearsall my grand Son Israel Pearsall my Kinsmen Daniel Underhill Samuel Underhill Abraham Underhill and Thomas Underhill all to be my Executors of this my last Will and Testament and to Execute the same and every part thereof in manner as above Exprest  In Witness hereunto I have set to my hand and fixed my Seal the day and year above written.

                                                                                                                                                Thomas Pearsall                              (seal)

Signed Sealed Published pronounced and declared by the said Thomas Pearsall as and for his last Will and Testament in the presence of the subscribers which subscribed in the presence of the Testator

William Kirk

Samuel Willis

Henry Burtis

Rickard Kirk

 

Probated on 5 Mar. 1760, and proved by William Kirk and Richard Kirk, both of Hempstead, Queens County, Yeomen. Letters of Administration granted to Thomas Pearsall, Israel Pearsall, Daniel Underhill and Abraham Underhill, four of the Executors, on 13 Mar. 1760.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from New York County Probate, Vol. 21, p. 523-528, copied from original Liber 21, p. 520-525.

 

 

Will of Lucia Maria Bradley Peck of Burlington, Chittenden County, Vermont (1893) *

        In the name of God Amen.

        I Lucia Maria Bradley Peck being possessed of house and land in my own right (Homestead on College Street) with contents thereof some of which belonged to my Mother and given me by her for the use of Self, Sister Harriet now dead many years and My dearly beloved brother George who has just died, to whom if he had out lived me I wished it to go, he having always joined me in our wish that when we were both gone it should go to our beloved Cousin Doctor Edward Bradley of New York, do hereby give bequeath house contents, land every thing belonging to me to said Dr. Bradley for his own use and comfort – not to be sold, or mortgaged or rented – but to be kept for him in his old age as a retreat-home for rest after his life of hard work, a Bradley home. This place not to be in any way involved

  I propose to make a Codicil to his will paying any small debts I may have & giving to friends such gifts as I choose I am not under obligation to any one except such of the land as is mortgaged, but knowing the uncertainty of life to be sure the main part of my property will go as I desire make this will as my last will & testament this 24 day of May 1893 – I do wish to have this property which house & grounds have been mostly the work of my own hands and which I toiled for paid for by great privation of benefit to my own race the Bradley blood, none else have ever lived here and I never wish any other to be here, and my husband so far as he had anything to say about it felt the same, and very strongly express it to me though his right had passed away, with his property

                                                                                                                                                Lucia B. Peck

Signed, published and declared by the said Lucia B. Peck as and for her last will and testament in presence of us who at her request and in her presence and in the presence of each other have hereto subscribed our names as witnesses

                                                                                                                                                Viola Phelps Whitcomb

                                                                                                                                                Helen White Wales

                                                                                                                                                Isabel Capen White

 

Edward Bradley of the City and State of New York was granted administration with the will annexed of the estate of Lucia M. B. Peck, late of Burlington, on 5 Sept. 1898, with Hiram Walker, of Burlington, as surety. The Inventory of the Estate of Lucia M. B. Bradley of Burlington, showed her real estate in the City of Burlington on the North East corner of College and South Union Street valued at $15,000, and the furniture and fixtures in the house valued $500.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Chittenden County Probate Estate Files, 1898, Box 35, File #5710.

 

 

Will of William Peckham of Dartmouth, County of Bristol, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1757) *

The Nineteenth day of March AD one thousand seven hundred and fifty seven I william Peckham of dartmouth in the County of Bristol within his Majestys Province of the Massachusetts Bay in New England yeoman being at this Present time of a sound disposing mind and Memory thought Good to make this my last will and Testament and as to my Worldly Estate where with it hath pleased God to Bless me in this Life I Give demise & dispose of the same in the following Manner & form (viz,

Imps. My will is that all my Just debts funeral Charges and Just Expences of all sorts, should be just paid out of my personal Estate by my Executor here after Named

Item I Give to my well beloved wife Almy ye one half part of all the Remaining part of my personall Estate: together with the use & Improvement of the Whole of all my personall Estate untill my Grand daughters viz) Sarah and Almy Willcox severally arrive to the age of Twenty one years or time of marriage which may first happen

I Likewise Give to my sd wife the use and Improvement of all my Real Estate dureing the time she Remains my widow all above Given to my sd wife is not only in Lieu of her Right of dower in my Estate but to Enable her to do towards the support of my sd two Grandaughters what is Necessary over and above what their father may or shall do to to wards their Bringing up

Item I Give and Bequeath to my sd Grandaughters Sarah & Almy Willcox and to their heirs & Assigns to have all my houseing and Lands to be Equally divided between them upon Condition, and provided they or Either of them Survives to the age of Twenty six years or Leaves Issue of their or Either of their bodys begotten: but in Case they both decease before they or Either of them arives to ye Age and Neither of them Leaves no Issue surviveing In that Case my will is that all my sd houseing & lands shall Go to and be for all my Natural Brothers & sisters that shall then be surviveing to them & their heirs and Assigns forever to be Equally divided between them provided they my sd Brothers & Sisters or Either of them that shall be surviveing do pay to the Naturall Sisters of my sd wife or such as shall Represent them if any of them be dead the Reasonable value of all sd Lands Except & Exclusive of my homestead – I Like wise Give my sd two Grandaughters ye one half part of all my personall Estate to be delivered to them as they severally arrive to the age of Twenty one years or time of Marriage which first happens

Item My will is that if my sd wife should Marry or decease Leaving my sd Grand children under age that my trusty and well beloved Brother in Law Stephen West & Kindsmen Bartholomew Taber & Jethro Hatheway or Either one of them that shall be Surviveing should take ye Care not Only of the persons of sd Grandaughters but their Estates untill they arive to Lawfull age or time of Marriage

Item I Likewise Constitute make and ordain ye abovesd Bartholomew Taber Sole Executor of this my last will & testament hereby makeing void all other wills by me before this time made Confirming this and and no Other tobe my last will and Testament. In witness Whereof I the abovesd William Peckham have hereunto Set my hand and Seal the day & year above sd

Signed Sealed Published

pronounced & declared by

the sd William Peckham

his Last will & testament

In Presence of us Ye

Subscribers

Benjn. Akin

Samuel West                                                                                                                         William Peckham                (seal)

William Tallman

Stephen West

 

Proved on 11 June 1771 by Benjamin Akin and Samuel West, two of the witnesses to the before written Instrument.

 

William Tallman, Jizeh Willis and Samuel West, Freeholders of the Town of Dartmouth were appointed to appraise the Inventory of the Estate of William Peckcom, late of Dartmouth, yeoman, on 16 Feb. 1771. The Inventory of all the Estate of William Peckham, late of Dartmouth, was dated 22 Apr. 1771, and totaled about £142.2.10.

 

Persuent to the within Written order, We have Sett off two Acres of Meadow to the Heirs of William Peckham deceased at the foot of his Land, Agreeable to the Last Will & Testament of his Father Stephen Peckham late of Dartmouth deceased, this 29th of December 1772.

                                                                                                                                                Benjamin Akin

                                                                                                                                                David Shepherd

                                                                                                                                                Samuel Smith

 

[Note: this is in the same file, but it may relate to a different William Peckham.]

Prince Peckham of Dartmouth, yeoman, was granted Administration of the estate of William Peckham, late of Dartmouth, on 16 Mar. 1773, with Ephraim Lane Jur. of Norton Gentn, and John Fisher of Attleborough, yeoman, as sureties.

 

Jireh Willis, Jedadiah Tallman and Samuel West, all of Dartmouth & freeholders, were appointed to take another inventory of the Estate of William Peckham, late of Dartmouth, Husbandman, on 24 Apr. 1773. This Inventory, dated 24 Apr. 1773, totaled about £71.5.9.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Bristol County Probate File “William Peckham, Dartmouth, 1771,” from FHL microfilm #0572408.

 

 

Will of Abiel Peirce of Middleborough, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1795) *

In the Name of God amen. I Abiel Peirce of the Town of Middleborough in the County of Plymouth & Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Gentleman being weak of Body Yet of a sound Mind & Memory (blessed be God for the same) considering that it is appointed for all men once to die do make & ordain this my last Will & Testament as follows, viz~

        First I give & bequeath to my well beloved wife Theadoria Peirce for her Thirds and right of Dower, as provided by Law one third part of all my Real Estate for her own to improve during her natural Life. Also one third part of all my personal Estate for her own property. —

        I give & bequeath my Son William Peirce the Sum of fifty six Pounds seven Shillings & 3 Pence to be paid by my Executor hereafter named one third thereof in one Year after my decease, one third thereof in two Years after my decease & the other third thereof in three Years after my decease –

        I give & bequeath to my Son Nathan Peirce the Sum of thirty Pounds lawful Money to be paid by my Executor hereafter named as follows the Sum of seven Pounds ten shillings in one Year after my decease, & the Sum of seven Pounds ten shillings in two Years after my decease & another seven Pounds ten shillings in three Years, & the remaining seven Pounds ten shillings in four Years after my decease –

        I give & bequeath to my eight eldest Daughters namely, Selah the Wife of Elisha Clark, Charity the Wife of Silas Williams, Hannah the Wife of Godfrey Robinson, Betsey the Wife of Silvanus Thomas junr. Thankful, Mercy, Dardania & Abigail, to be paid to each of them by my Executor hereafter named the Sum of six shillings – and also do give & bequeath to my afore named eight Daughters all my Household Furniture & Indoor moveables to be equally divided amongst them yet reserving for my Wife aforesaid her third part thereof as heretofore given her –

        I give & bequeath to my Daughter Polly Peirce about one acre & a half of Cedar Swamp being the whole which I own in Assonet Cedar Swamp so called & is the same which I hold under hand & seal of Philip King & his Wife, to her my said Daughter, to have & to hold to her her Heirs & assigns forever. I also give & bequeath to her my said Daughter Polly the value of three Pounds lawful Money for the purpose of purchasing a Case of Draws for her which is to be delivered to her by my Executor hereafter named –

        I give & bequeath to my Son Abiel Peirce junr. all my share of Homestead Lands on both sides of the Highway or Road which leads through my said Lands towards Rochester Furnace some part thereof lies in the twelve Men’s purchase and the remainder in the sixteen shillings purchase, also all my live Stock out Door Moveables & all my Dues & demands on any person or persons of any kind Whatever, yet excepting that part of my personal Estate herein given to my said Wife & her Improvement of the Real as aforesaid —  And my Will is & I hereby order, that all my just debts & funeral Charges & also all the Legacies herein mentioned shall be paid by my said Son Abiel out of that part of my said Estate herein given to him —  Also that my youngest Daughters that are unmarried shall have one room in my new Dwelling house to live in with privileges in the Cellar for them personal to use & occupy after my decease as long as they shall live unmarried And my will is & I hereby constitute & appoint, my said Son Abiel to be Executor to this my last will & Testament, therefore hoping that this my last Will & Testament will be carefully kept & performed, according to the true Intent & meaning thereof I commit my Soul to God who gave it & my Body to the Dust to a decent Burial – In Witness whereof I the said Abiel Peirce senior have hereto set my hand & Seal this first day of May, In the Year of our Lord, one Thousand seven hundred & ninety five –

        Signed, sealed & declared by the Said                                                                                    his

        Abiel to be his Will & Testament in                                                                            Abiel    X   Peirce                             (seal)

        presence of us –                                                                                                                           mark

                Nehemiah Bennet

                Isaac Thomson 2d

                Eliphalet Peirce –

 

Presented for probate on 7 Jan. 1812 by Abiel Peirce, the Executor therein named, and proved by Eliphalet Peirce, one of the witnesses thereto subscribed, Nehemiah Bennet Esqr. is now deceased, and Isaac Thomson 2d has removed to the district of Maine. Letters of Administration were granted to Abiel Peirce, the before named Executor.

 

Capt. Zenas Wood, Gentleman, Job Sherman and Nathaniel Barrows, yeomen, all of Middleborough, were appointed to appraise the Estate of Abiel Peirce, late of Middleborough, Gentleman, on 7 Jan. 1812. The Inventory of the Estate of Abiel Peirce, late of Middleborough, dated 24 Jan. 1812, totaled $2438.62, including his land and buildings valued at $2109.83. Abiel Peirce, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 24 Feb. 1812.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 44, p. 124-126, from FHL microfilm #0550903.

 

 

Will of Ebenezer Peirce of Middleborough, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1792) *

        Know all men by these presents that I Ebenezer Peirce of the town of Middleborough in the county of Plymouth & Comonwealth of Massachusetts, yeoman, being weak of body yet of a sound mind and memory, blessed be God for the same, yet considering the mortality of the body & that it is appointed for all men once to die, do make & ordain this my last will & testament to be firm & inviolable, and dispose of my small matter of worldly estate as follows – vizt

Imprimis. I Give and bequeath to my Son John Peirce of Shutesbury in the County of Hampshire one ninth part of all my Estate both real & personal, except what I herein order to be paid out as hereafter expressed to have and to hold the same to him my said son John Peirce his heirs & assigns forever

        Item – I Give and bequeath to my Son Abiel Peirce of said Middleborough one ninth part of all my estate both real & personal, except what I herein order to be paid out as hereafter expressed, to have & to hold the same, to him my said Son Abiel Peirce his heirs & assigns forever

        Item – I Give & bequeath to my Son Job Peirce of said Middleborough one ninth part of all my estate both real & personal, except what I herein order to be paid out, as hereafter expressed, to have & to hold the same, to him my said Son Job Peirce, his heirs & assigns forever

        Item – I Give & bequeath to my Son Seth Peirce of the town of Hardwick in the county of Worcester one ninth part of all my estate both real & Personal, except what I hereby order to be paid out as hereafter expressed, to have & to hold the same, to him my said Son Seth Peirce his heirs & assigns forever

        Item – I Give & bequeath to two of my grand children vizt. to Ebenezer Peirce & Henry Peirce two of the sons of my Son Henry Peirce late of said Middlebo. deceased one ninth part of all my estate both real & personal except what I hereby order to be paid out as hereafter expressed, to have & to hold the same, to them my said grand children Ebenezer & Henry, their heirs & assigns forever

        Item – I Give & bequeath to the other children of my said son Henry deceased not herein named Six Shillings to each of them to be paid out of that ninth part herein before given to the afore named Grand children Ebenezer & Henry

        Item – I Give & bequeath to my Daughter Judith Hathaway the wife of Maltiah Hathaway of Dartmouth or New Bedford, in the County of Bristol, one ninth part of all my estate both real and personal, except what I hereby order to be paid out as hereafter expressed, to have & to hold the same to her my said Daughter Judith Hathaway her heirs & assigns forever

        Item – I Give & bequeath to my Daughter Anna Cole of Freetown in said County of Bristol, widow of Abiel Cole deced, one ninth part of all my estate both real & personal, except what I hereby order to be paid out as hereafter expressed, to have & to hold the same to her my said Daughter Anna Cole her heirs & assigns forever

        Item – I Give & bequeath to my Grand Daughter Lurania Peirce the wife of Abner Peirce of said Middlebo, which Grand Daughter is one of the children of my Daughter Mary Spooner, the deceased wife of Benjamin Spooner of sd. Middleborough, one ninth part of all my estate both real & personal, except what I hereby order to be paid out as hereafter expressed, to have & to hold the same to her my sd Grand Daughter Lurania Peirce her heirs & assigns forever

        Item – I Give & bequeath to the other children of my abovesaid Daughter Mary Spooner deceased, Six Shillings to each of them to be paid out of that ninth part of my estate herein before given to my said Grand Daughter Lurania Peirce

        Item – I Give and bequeath to my Daughter Hopestill Hathaway the wife of Stephen Hathaway of Taunton in the County of Bristol aforesaid, one ninth part of all my estate both of real & personal, except what I hereby order to be paid out as hereafter expressed, to have & to hold the same, to her the said Hopestill Hathaway, her heirs & assigns forever, and my will is, & I hereby order & direct that all my just debts, my funeral charges & the expence of Settling my estate shall be paid out of all my estate at large, and my will is, & I hereby Constitute & appoint Nehemiah Bennet of said Middleborough to be Executor to this my last will & testament, therefore hoping that this will & testament will be carefully kept & performed according to the true intent & meaning thereof. I commit my soul to God, who gave it, & my body to the dust to a decent burial. In Witness whereof I the said Ebenezer Peirce have hereto Set my hand & Seal this tenth day of January, in the year of our Lord one thousand Seven Hundred, ninety & two. ~

Signed, Sealed & declared by the sd                                                                                                                         Ebenezer Peirce                               (seal)

Ebenezer Peirce, to be his last will

& testament in presence of us

        Elkanah Bennet

        Elisha Bennet

        Joseph Donham

 

Presented for probate on 2 Jan. 1797 by Nehemiah Bennet Esqr., the Executor therein named, and proved by Elkanah Bennet and Elisha Bennet, two of the witnesses.

 

John Nelson, Esqr., Hugh Montgomery, yeoman, and James Peirce, Gentleman, all of Middleborough, were appointed to appraise the estate of Ebenezer Peirce, late of Middlebo, yeoman, on 2 Jan. 1797. The Inventory, dated 13 Jan. 1797, totaled $1006.00, including his homestead land and house containing about 60 acres. Nemiah Bennet Esqr., the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 20 May 1797.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 36, pp. 25-27,159-160, from FHL microfilm #0550719.

 

 

Will of Daniel Perkins of Middleborough, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1835) *

                Be it Remembered, that I Daniel Perkins of Middleborough and County of Plymouth, Yeoman, being weak in body, but of sound mind and memory, do this twentieth day of March in the year one thousand eight hundred and thirty five, make and publish this my last Will and Testament, in manner following, that is to say

1st. I give to my beloved wife Lydia Perkins all my Real and Personal estate for her use and improvement, so long as she remains my widow.

2d  I give to my seven children, viz, Daniel Huntington, Harriet Jane, Azel, Isaac Newton, Henry, Sarah and Hannah Perkins one dollar each, to be paid them severally by my Executor hereafter named

   And lastly I do constitute and ordain my said wife Lydia Perkins sole Executrix of this my last Will and Testament.

                In testimony whereof I do hereunto set my hand and seal the day and year above written.

                                                                                                                                                Daniel Perkins                                  (seal)

                Signed, sealed, published, pronounced and declared by the said Daniel Perkins as and for his last Will and Testament, in the presence of us, who, at his request, and in his presence, hereunto set our names as witnesses to the same.

        Seth Eaton

        Edward Cole

        Nahum Keith.

 

Presented for probate on 5 Apr. 1836, and proved by Seth Eaton and Edward Cole, two of the subscribing witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Lydia Perkins, the Executrix, on 5 Apr. 1836.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 78, p. 120-122, from FHL microfilm #0555264.

 

 

Will of David Perkins of Bridgewater, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1736) *

In the Name of God Amen. January 21 : 1735/6. I David Perkins of Bridgewater in ye County of Plymouth in the Province of the Massachusetts Bay in New-England Gent. being very weak of Body, tho. of perfect Mind & Memory, Thanks be given to the Great God therefor; Calling to Mind the Mortality of my Body & Knowing that it is appointed for all Men once to dy do Make & Ordain this my last Will & Testament, that is to Say Principally & first of all, I Give & Recommend my Soul into the Hands of that God who gave it & my Body I Commit to the Earth to be decently buried at the Discretion of my Executors hereafter named Nothing doubting but at the General Resurrection I shall Receive ye same again by the Mighty Power of God; and as touching Such Worldly Estate wherewith it hath pleased God to bless me in this Life, I Give Demise & Dispose of ye. same in ye. following manner & form that is to Say —

1st. I Give & Bequeath to my Well beloved Son David Perkins besides the two Lots of Land, where his Dwelling House now Stands already made over to him by Deed of Gift, Twenty Acres of Land joyning in Part to ye. Land of Elkanah Rickard now of Bridgewater in the County of Plymouth, & also two Eighths & a Sixteenth of a Forge standing near my Grist Mill—

2ly. I Give & Bequeath to my two Grand Children David & Jonathan Perkins Sixty acres of Land joyning to ye Land abovewilled to my Son David their Father to be equally Divided between them —

3ly. I Give & Bequeath to my well beloved Son Abraham that Lot of Land which I bought of Job Winslow & Kenelm Barker which is the Ninth Lot in Number called the Great Lots in Quantity one hundred acres & also fourty Pounds in Bills of Credit~

4ly. Itm I Give & Bequeath to my Grand Child Nathan Perkins My now Dwelling House & Barn & twenty acres of Land which I bought of Deacon Fobes, Excepting a Bit of Land upon which that Forge of which I own a Part & my Grist Mill do now stand, Beginning at the Corner of the Fence by the highway near the Coal House & running in a Straight Range three Rods below the Forge to a Stake & Heap of Stones, and my Grand son Nathan is to Pay his Sister ten Pounds in Money his Sister Martha when She is come to the Age of 21 Years. Also I Give my sd Grandson two Acres of Land which I bought of Ebenezer Washburn —

5ly. Itm I Give & Bequeath to my Grand Son James Perkins twenty acres of Land joyning to his Brother Nathan’s Land, which Land I bought of Samuel Leonard, & also two acres & an half of Land which I bought of Ebenezer Washburn —

6ly. Itm I Give & Bequeath to my Grand Son Timothy Perkins twenty & five acres of Land joyning to Solomon Pratts Land, and to his Brother James’s and also two acres & an half of Land which I bought of Ebenezer Washburn, & the sd. Timothy is to Pay his Sister Silence ten Pound in Money when She is come to the age of twenty one Years —

7ly. Itm I Give & Bequeath to my Grand Son Solomon Perkins One Great Lot of Land in the Titicutt, the twenty Second Lot in number lying near Benjamin Washburn’s adjoining to the Lot that was formerly Joseph Howards, butting upon ye four Mile Line & so to ye. River –

8ly. Itm I Give & Bequeath to my Well beloved Son Thomas Perkins, whom I likewise Make & ordain Sole Executor of this my last Will & Testament, the House & Land where he now lives, which I bought of Thomas Washburn, and also the Grist Mill, With all the Priviledges as for going to & from sd Mill, Except so much as is wanted for ye Use of the Forge to lay ore & Coals on for the Use of the Forge. I also Give & Bequeath to him a Bit of Land where the above mentioned Forge & Grist Mill do now stand, bounded as follows, Beginning at ye. Corner of ye. Fence by the highway, the East Side of the Way near the Coal House & running a Straight Line three Rods below the Forge to a Stake & Heap of Stones by the Forge French, & from thence running direct East to the River & from the River up Stream to the first high way, and from thence by the high way to the Bounds first Mentioned. Moreover I Give & Bequeath to him the sd Thomas Two great Lots in Titticutt being the 20 - & 21 in number, joyning to the Lot which is above Willed to Solomon Perkins and also 25 Acres of Land joyning to ye. Same Lots Which Land I bought of Samuel Chandler, within the four Mile Line, and also one Lot of Cedar Swamp at great Meadow it being the ninth Lot in number and also one half of ye Iron Ore which is on ye 14 Acres of Land last laid out at the Head of Hause’s Lot —

9ly. Itm I Give & Bequeath to my four Grand Children Nathan & Solomon & Timothy and James Perkins Eight acres of Land at the head of Hause’s Lot, it being Part of the 14 Acres last laid out, With one half of the Iron ore on the Whole fourteen acres, and also one Lot of Cedar Swamp at Great Meadow, it being the 19th. Lot in number, and also one third Part of a Purchase Right in the Old Swamp, and furthermore my Will is that all the Estate that I have Willed away to my Son Nathan’s Children, is to be left in the Hands of the Executor until they come to be of full age & to be Improved for their Profit, They paying him for his Trouble. Each One of these my Grand Children is to Recieve what is Above Willed to them at the Age of One & twenty Years —

10ly. I Give & Bequeath to my three Sons David & Abraham & Thomas Perkins all the Lands & Moveable Estate which is not above disposed of to be equally Divided between them. Only it is to be Understood that the fourty Pounds which Above is Willed to my Son Abraham is first to be paid to the sd. Abraham, & the Remainder to be equally Divided – And I do hereby Ratify Hold & Confirm this & no other to be my last Will & Testament, And do utterly Disallow all Other Wills before this by me made In Witness whereof I the sd. David Perkins have hereunto Set my Hand & Seal the Day & Year Above written

Signed Sealed Published Pronounced & Declared by ye. sd. David Perkins as his last Will and Testament In Presence of us Witnesses —

John Shaw                                                                                                                            Davd. Perkins                                    (seal)

Eleazar Carver

Solomon Pratt

 

Octobr. the 5th 1736. The Within Named John Shaw – Eleazr. Carver & Solomon Pratt Made oath that they Saw ye. Within named David Perkins late of Bridgewater in the County of Plymo Deceasd. Sign Seal and heard him Declare the Within written Instrumt. to be his last Will & Testament And that they at the Same time in the Presence of ye sd. Testator Set to their Hands as Witnesses, and that according to the best of their Observation he then was of a sound & disposing Mind & Memory – Before Isaac Winslow Judge of Probate ~~

Presented for probate on 18 Nov. 1736 and allowed. Administration of the estate was granted to Thomas Perkins, one of ye. Sons of ye. sd. Deceased & Sole Execr. in the Same Will named.

 

The Inventory of the Goods Chattels & Credits of David Perkins of Bridgewater Gentleman Deceasd, taken by Josiah Edson, Daniel Hudson & Jonathan Cary of Bridgewater aforesd Gentlemen on 16 Oct. 1736, totaled £5562.2.2, including his real estate which totaled £5365. Thomas Perkins, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 19 May 1737.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 7, pp. 246-247, 304-305, from FHL microfilm #0551533.

 

 

Will of James Perkins of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1791) *

In the name of God Amen—On the Seventh day of April A Dom 1791

I James Perkins of Bridgwater in the county of Plymouth, being under decays of body, but of a sound disposing mind & memory, proceed to make this my last will & testament; In the first place, I give & recommend my soul into the hands of God who gave it, trusting in the mercy of God thro’ Christ for pardon, grace & glory, and my body to the earth, to be decently buried at the discretion of my Executor hereafter named. In the next place, I give and dispose of my worldly Interest, in the following manner vizt— my will is, that all my just debts & funeral charges be paid in convenient time after my decease

Item—I Give & bequeath unto my only Daughter Mathew +, all my houshold furniture and indoor moveables of every kind, some of which are now at Lebanon in the State of New Hampshire & some at sd Bridgwater

Item—I Give & bequeath unto my eldest son James Perkins one hundred pounds to be paid in notes of hand for Cash

Item—I Give & bequeath unto my 2d Son Barnabas Perkins Seventy Six pounds also to be paid in Cash notes

Item—I Give & bequeath unto my youngest Son Seth Perkins one hundred pounds, to be paid as aforesaid, in notes of hand for Cash

Item—I Give & bequeath unto my aforesaid Sons, James, Barnabas & Seth, all my Estate, whether real or personal, if any there be, after paying the aforesaid Legacies, together with my wearing apparell, to be equally divided between them the sd James, Barnabas & Seth

Item—I do hereby nominate & appoint my eldest Son James Perkins Sole Executor of this my Last will & testament.—In witness whereof I have hereunto Set my hand, the day & year aforesaid

Signed, Sealed, Published & Declared by                                                                      James Perkins                                   (seal)

the said James Perkins to be his Last will

& testament, before us

                Nathan Mitchell

                Nathan Pratt

                Daniel Mitchell

 

Presented for probate on 4 May 1795 by James Perkins, the Executor therein named, and proved by Nathan Mitchell & Nathan Pratt, two of the witnesses.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 35, p. 242-243, from FHL microfilm #0550718.

+ This name was clearly written “Mathew” in the recorded will, but she was born as Martha Perkins.

 

 

Will of Jonathan Perkins of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1802) *

In the Name of God Amen. – The thirtieth day of September in the year of our Lord one thousand, eight hundred & two, I Jonathan Perkins of Bridgwater in the County of Plymouth, husbandman, being in perfect mind & memory, thanks be to God, therefor calling to mind ye mortality of my body, and knowing that it is appointed for all men once to die, do make and ordain this my last will & testament that is to say, principally & first of all, I give & recommend my soul into the hand of God that gave it, and my body I recommend to the earth, to be buried in a decent manner, at the discretion of my Executor, nothing doubting, but at the resurrection I shall recieve the same again, by the mighty power of God, and touching such worldly estate wherewith it hath pleased God to bless me with in this life, I do give and demise and dispose of, in the following manner and form

Imprimis.– I Give unto my Son Jonathan Perkins, all my Estate of every name & description which I may have at the time of my decease, after the legacies, my just debts, funeral charges and expences of settling my estate are paid

Item – I Give unto my Son George Perkins, one dollar, to be paid in one year after my decease

Item – I Give unto my Son Daniel Perkins, one Dollar, to be paid in one year after my decease ~

Item – I Give unto my Daughter Abigail Cary, one Dollar to be paid in one year after my decease.

Item – I Give unto my Daughter, Ruby Cary one Dollar to be paid in one year after my decease

Item – I Give unto my Daughter Susanna Howard one Dollar to be paid in one year after my decease –

Item – I Give unto my Daughter, Parma Perkins, all my houshold furniture and one Cow, also, two hundred Dollars, to be paid in one year after my decease & also one half the butter & cheese, one third of the Corn when harvested, one third of the Sauce, & one half of my old Swine, when fatted.– And, I do hereby constitute and appoint Jonathan Cary junr. to be Executor of this my last will & testament.– And, I do hereby utterly disallow, revoke & disannul all and every other former will & testament, legacies, bequeath and Executor by me in any ways before named, willed & bequeathed, ratifying & confirming this and no other, to be my last will & testament.–

In witness whereof, I have hereunto Set my hand & Seal the day and year above written –

Signed, Sealed, Published, Pronoun-                              

ced & delivered by the said Jonathan                                                                                             Jonathan Perkins             (seal)

Perkins as his last will & testament

in the presence of us, the subscribers.–

                Jonas Packard

                Jesse Perkins

 

Presented for probate on 8 Nov. 1802 by Jonathan Cary junr, the Executor therein named, and proved by Jonas Packard and Jesse Perkins, the witnesses.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Jonathan Perkins, late of Bridgwater, Gentleman, was appraised by Jesse Perkins, Ephraim Jackson, and Jonas Packard on 9 Nov. 1802, and totaled $614.68, no real estate, but he had Notes of Hand due him worth $311.82. Jona. Cary jr., the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 6 June 1803.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 38, pp. 196-197, 333-334, from FHL microfilm #0550720.

 

 

Will of Josiah Perkins of North Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1822) *

                In the name of God Amen. I Josiah Perkins of North Bridgewater in the County of Plymouth Commonwealth of Massachusetts, yeoman do make ordain and declare this instrument to be my last Will and testament.

Imprimis I give and bequeath unto my beloved wife Anna Perkins the improvement of all my real Estate, except the Blacksmith Shop, coal house, and one half the dwelling house with one half of the other buildings, the use of a horse and chaise when she has occasion to ride, one half the meat Tubs and Cider casks, Two Cows and all the household furniture, the improvement of the real estate only during the time said Anna remains my widow, the personal Estate to be at her own disposal.

Item.       I give and bequeath to my son Jonas Perkins ten Dollars

Item.      I give and bequeath to my daughter Mehitable Thirty Dollars

Item       I give and bequeath to my son Nahum Perkins my Black Smith Shop coal house one half the Dwelling house and one half the other Buildings with the residue and remainder of my estate real and personal to him his heirs and assigns forever.

                And I do hereby appoint the said Nahum Perkins sole Executor of this my last will and testament

                In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this twenty eighth day of January in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and twenty two

                                                                                                                                                Josiah Perkins                                  (seal)

Signed, sealed and declared by the above named Josiah Perkins to be his last Will and testament in the presence of us who in the presince of the Testator and of each other have hereunto subscribed our names as witnesses

        John Thomson

        Robert Packard

        Marcus Copeland

 

Presented for probate on the first Tuesday of Oct. 1848 by Nahum Perkins, the Executor therein named, and proved by Robert Packard and Marcus Copeland, two of the witnesses whose names are subscribed thereto. Letters Testamentary were granted to Nathan [sic] Perkins, the Executor therein named.

 

Nahum Perkins, of North Bridgewater, was appointed as Executor of the estate of Josiah Perkins, late of North Bridgewater, Yeoman, on 3 Oct. 1848, with Robert Packard and Marcus Copeland, both of North Bridgewater, as sureties.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 90, p. 377-379, from FHL microfilm #0555639, and Vol. 1G, p. 496.

 

 

Will of Isaac Perry Sr. of Northumberland, Saratoga County, New York (1799) *

In the name of God Amen. I Isaac Perry  Senr. of the Town of Northumberland County of Saratoga and State of New York, being weak in body but of sound and perfect memory and mind blessed by Almighty God for the same considering the uncertainty of this mortal life do make and publish this my last Will and Testament, in manner and form following Vizt. 1st I give and bequeath unto my beloved wife Sarah a competent living during her remaining my widow, after all my just and lawfull Debts are paid, provided she lives with either of my sons Eli or Levi Perry 2ndy I give and bequeath to my eldest son Isaac Perry Ten Shillings New York currency 3dly I give and bequeath to my son Abner Ten Shillings 5thly I give and bequeath to my son Josiah Ten Shillings 6thly I give and bequeath to my son Seth Ten Pounds New York currency 7thly I also give and bequeath to my daughter in law Abigail Ten Shillings and to each of her Daughters she had by my son Elihu Deceased Ten Shillings 8thly I give and bequeath to my grand son Elihu the offspring of my son Elihu Twenty Pounds to be paid to him when he is twenty one years of age 9thly I give and bequeath to my Daughter Sarah Ten Shillings 10thly I give and bequeath to the Children which are now alive of my Daughter Elenor Ten Shillings each 11thly I give and bequeath to my Daughter Mary Ten Shillings 12thly I give and bequeath to my Daughter Rebecca Ten Shillings ~ I further also give and devise to my two sons Eli Perry and Levi Perry their heirs and assigns all that my Messuage or Tenement, situated lying and being in the Town of Northumberland in the County of Saratoga and State of New York together with all my other Estate both reall and personal whatsoever to hold to them the said Eli and Levi their heirs and assigns, for ever, equally to be divided between them ~ And I hereby appoint my two sons Eli and Levi joint Executors of this my last Will and Testament, hereby revoking all former Wills by me made,

In wittness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this twenty first day of September one Thousand seven hundred & Ninety nine ~

his

   Isaac   X    Perry

mark

Signed sealed Published and declared by the above named Isaac Perry to be his last Will and Testament in the Presence of us who have hereunto subscribed our names as witnesses in the presence of the Testator.                Seth Perry witness  (seal)

Jno. F. Williams  (seal)       Roswell Herod  (seal)

 

Probated on 14 Dec. 1799, proved by Seth Perry and John F. Williams.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Record of Wills, Saratoga County, Book 1, p. 43-44, from FHL microfilm #0555716.

 

 

Will of Jacob Peterson of Duxbury, Plymouth County, Massachusetts Bay (1778) *

In the Name of God Amen—upon the tenth day of March in the year of our Lord one thousand Seven Hundred & Seventy Eight – I, Jacob Peterson of Duxbury in the County of Plymouth in the Province of the Massachusetts Bay in New England yeoman upon Good and Serious Considerations, and being under some decays of nature and being of perfect mind and memory thanks be Given unto God for the same, and therefore Calling unto mind the mortality of my body and knowing that it is appointed for all men once to die do make and ordain this to be my Last will & testament, that is to say principally and first of all I do Give and Recommend my Soul into the hand of God that Gave it and my body I Recommend to the Earth to be buried in a decent and Christian manner at the discretion of my Executor herein after named, nothing doubting but at the Great and General Resurrection I shall Recieve the same again by the almighty power of God, and as touching such worldly Goods and Personal Estate wherewith it hath pleased God to bless me in this Life with – I Give demise and dispose thereof in the following manner and form

Imprimis – my will is that all my just debts and funeral Charges be defrayed & paid out of my Estate.

Item–I do Give and bequeath unto my Grandson Benjamin Peterson the sum of five shillings

Item– I do Give and bequeath unto my two Grand, daughters Sarah Smith the wife of Benjamin Smith and Hannah Peterson, all and the whole of my moveable or Personal Estate whatsoever it is or wheresoever it may be found, (Excepting this abovesaid Legacy to the said Benjamin, and my farming tools and my blacksmiths Shop tools, which I have Given my said Grandson Benjamin Peterson a deed of Gift of) I do Give and bequeath unto my two said Grand-daughters, Sarah Smith & Hannah Peterson their Heirs and assigns forever, to be equally alike divided between them

Item–I do hereby Constitute and appoint my trusty son in Law Benjamin Smith to be the Sole Executor of this my Last will & testament; and I do hereby Utterly disallow Revoke and disannul all and every other and former wills testaments Legacies and bequests and Executors by me in any before named, willed & Bequested Ratifying and Confirming this and no Other to be my Last will and testament In witness whereof I the said Jacob Peterson have hereunto Set to my hand and Seal the day and year above written

Signed, Sealed, published, pronounced and

declared by the said Jacob Peterson to be his Last

will & testament in the presence of us the Sub-                                                             Jacob Peterson                                 (seal)

scribers

                George Partridge

                Judah Hunt

                Deborah Hunt

 

Presented for probate on 6 Dec. 1784 by Benjamin Smith, the Executor therein named, and proved by Judah Hunt and Deborah Hunt, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Benjamin Smith, the before named Executor.

 

Gaml. Bradford Esqr, John Sampson yeoman, and Israel Sylvester junr, yeoman, all of Duxbury, were appointed to appraise the Estate of Jacob Peterson, late of Duxbury, yeoman, on 6 Dec. 1784. The Inventory, dated 5 Mar. 1785, totaled £31.19.4, no real estate. Benja. Smith, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 2 May 1785.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 29, pp. 219-221, 270-271, from FHL microfilm #0550715.

 

 

Will of John Phinney of Kingston, Plymouth County, Massachusetts Bay (1779) *

In the name of God Amen – I John Phinney of Kingston in the county of Plymouth in the State of the Massachusetts Bay, being in Good health & in & of perfect mind and memory, thanks be Given unto God, calling to mind the mortality of my body knowing it is appointed for all men once to die, do make & ordain this to be my Last will & testament, that is to say, principally & first of all, I recommend my soul into the hands of almighty God that Gave it and my body I recommend to the earth to be buried in a decent burial at the discretion of my Executor, nothing doubting but at General resurrection I shall recieve the same again by the power of God, and as touching such worldly estate wherewith it hath pleased God to bless me in this Life, do Give, demise and dispose of the same in the following form & manner – vizt – after my just debts & funeral charges are paid, I Give & bequeath to my beloved friend Mary Fish the wife of Mr. Adam Fish one Cow & six sheep –

Item – I do Give and bequeath to my affectionate brother Joseph Phonney his heirs & assigns all my wearing apparell & one half of my indoor moveables, excepting my eatables & Loom & tackling & one feather Bed

Item – I Give & bequeath to my kindsman John Phinney, son of Pelatiah Phinney, his heirs & assigns, my smallest fire arm & the other half of all my indoor moveables, excepting my eatables & Loom & tackling & one feather bed.–

Item – I Give & bequeath to my well beloved friend Enoch Hall his Heirs and assigns (he the said Enoch Hall paying my just debts & funeral charges) my Largest fire arm & all my eatables & Loom & tackling & one feather bed & all the residue of my Estate of what kind or nature soever, excepting what is Given as above expressed, and I do hereby constitute and appoint the said Enoch Hall sole executor of this my Last will & testament–and I do hereby utterly revoke & disallow all other wills, Legacies, bequeaths or executors by me before named willed or bequeathed, ratifying & confirming this & no other to be my Last will and testament – In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand & seal the seventeenth Day of November in the year of our Lord one thousand, seven hundred & seventy nine ~~

Signed, Sealed & declared this to be my                                                                        John Phiney                                       (seal)

Last will & testament in presence of

                John Johnson

                Rana Randell

                Jedh. Holmes –

 

Presented for probate on 3 Dec. 1787 by Enoch Hall, the Executor therein named, and proved by John Johnson and Jedediah Holmes, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Enoch Hall, the before named Executor.

Enoch Hall, Executor to the will of John Phinney, Late of Kingston, yeoman, notified the court on 3 Dec. 1787 that the estate was insolvent & insufficient to pay all the just debts which the sd. deceased owed.

 

The Inventory of the estate of John Phinney, late of Kingston, was appraised on 29 Feb. 1788 by John Johnson, Jedh. Holmes, and Noah Simmons, and totaled only £26.11.3, no real estate. Enoch Hall, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 3 Mar. 1788.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 30, pp. 262-263, 280, from FHL microfilm #0550716.

 

 

Will of Jonathan Phinney of Middleborough, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1738) *

In the name of God Amen the ninth Day of September Anno Domi 1738 – I Jonathan Phinney of Middleborough in the County of Plymouth in New England being Sick & Weak in Body but of prfect mind & Memory Thanks be given unto God therefore calling unto Mind the Mortality of my Body, and knowing that it is appointed for all men once to dy do make & ordain this my last Will & Testament That is to Say Principally & first of all I Give & Recommend my Soul into the Hands of God that gave it, and my Body I Recommend to the Earth to be buried in decent Christian Burial at ye Discretion of my Executors Nothing doubting but at the General Resurrection I shall recieve ye Same again by the Mighty Power of God: And as touching State wherewith it hath pleased God to Bless me with in this Life I Give Demise & Dispose of ye Same in the following Manner and form Imprims. My Will is yt my just Debts & funeral Charges be first pd out of my Estate.

Itm I Give & Bequeath unto my Son Joseph Phinney the House & Land whereon I now dwell together with the Fence & Fences standing thereon Excepting the One half of the Cedar which growth upon the sd Lot the Lot Contains twenty Six Acres Only Reserving unto my loving Wife Deborah Phinney the Use of ye Great Room of ye House so long as she remains my Widow – Also my Will is that my Son Joseph Phinney shall have the One quarter Part of my Meadow Land lying at the Old Place or Farm where I first dwelt near Mr Thomas Nelson’s Land: Item I Give & Bequeath unto my Son Jonathan Phinney one Lot of Land lying adjoyning unto Mr. Thomas Nelsons Land the Lot Containing twenty acres be it more or less as it was originally laid out Together with the House & Barn & Fence standing on sd. Lot Excepting the One quarter Part of ye. Meadow Land which I have already Given unto my Son Joseph Phinney out of ye. whole three Lots which lyeth altogether: Item I Give & Bequeath unto my Son Joshua Phinney my other Lot of Land containing twenty acres be more or less as it was originally laid out lying adjoyning unto the aforesd. Lot which I have Given unto my Son Jonathan Phinney together with the Fence standing on sd. Lot Excepting the One quarter part of the Meadow Land which I have already Given unto my Son Joseph Phinney out of the whole three Lots with lyeth altogether: Itm I Give & Bequeath unto my Son Timothy Phinney My other Lot of Land Containing twenty acres be it more or less as it was originally laid out adjoyning unto the aforesd. Lot of Land which I have given unto my Son Joshua Phinney with the Fence standing on sd. Lot Excepting the one quarter Part of ye. Meadow Land which I have already Given unto my Son Joseph Phinney out of the Whole three Lots which lyeth altogether: And my Will is that my Son Joseph Phinney & my Son Jonathan Phinney & my Son Joshua Phinney & my Son Timothy Phinney shall pay unto my Daughter Thankfull Phinney the Sum of ten Pounds in Money within one Year after my Decease: And my Will is that my aforesd. Four Sons Joseph Jonathan Joshua & Timothy shall pay unto my Daughter Elizabeth Phinney the Sum of Thirty Pounds in Money to be paid when the aforesd Elizabeth Phinney shall arrive to the Age of twenty one Years: My Will is that my three Sons Jonathan Joshua & Timothy shall have the other Half of ye. Cedar which I have reserved out of ye. Lot which I Gave unto my Son Joseph Phinney.

Itm I Give & Bequeath unto my loving Wife Deborah Phinney all the moveable Estate which She brought with her which may be found after my Decease Excepting two Cows which I have already Disposed of: and my Will is yt. My Wife shall have two Cows more in stead of them two Cows which I have Disposed of: and my Will is that my two Daughters Thankfull & Elizabeth Phinney shall have all my Houshold Stuff of all Sorts Excepting my Arms equally to be divided between them two –

Itm I Give & Bequeath unto my aforesd. four Sons Joseph Jonathan Joshua & Timothy all my Creatures of all Sorts & my Cart & wheels & Plows & Chains arms & my Wearing Apparell to be equally Divided among them: I likewise Constitute my loving Wife Deborah Phinney & my Son Joseph Phinney to be Executors of this my last Will & Testament & I do hereby utterly Disallow Revoke & Disanull all & every other former Wills by me in any Ways before Named willed & bequeathed & Confirm & no Other to be my last Will & Testament. In Witness whereof I have hereunto Set my hand and Seal this ninth Day of September – 1738.

Signed Sealed Published Pronounced &                                                                                         his

Deliverd by ye. sd. Jonathan Phinney as                                                                          Jonathan  J  Phinney                           (seal)

his last Will & Testament In Presence of us                                                                                   mark

Philip Cannon  Benjamn Booth junr

Jacob X  Smith his mark

 

Presented for probate on 6 Nov. 1738, and proved by Philip Cannon, Benjamin Booth junr. and Jacob Smith, the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Deborah Phinney ye. Wife and Joseph Phinney ye. Son of ye. sd. Deceased, Executors in the Same Will named.

 

Capt. Nathl. Southworth, Mr. Thomas Nelson, and Mr. Benja. Booth, all of Middleborough, were appointed to appraise the Estate of Jonathan Phinney, late of Middleborough, on 12 Oct. 1738. The Inventory, dated 18 Oct. 1738, totaled £874.11.10, including his real estate valued at about £435. Deborah Phinney and Joseph Phinney, the Executors, gave their oath to the inventory on 6 Nov. 1738.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 7, p. 445-447, from FHL microfilm #0550513.

 

 

Will of Joseph Phinney of Plympton, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1726) *

Know all men by these Presents That I Joseph Phinney of ye town of Plympton in ye County of Plymouth in New England being at this present time in health & of Sound & disposing memory & under Standing: Blessed be God for ye Same: yet being Sensible of my own morality: & knowing That it is appointed for all men once to dye: Do make & ordain this to be last my Will & Testament To Remain firm & Inviolable for Ever. Imprimis, I give & Bequeath unto my Loving Wife Esther Phinney one Cow to be at Her own disposing: and my Will is That my said wife Shall Have ye use & Improvement of all my Real Estate whatsoEver during Her widdowhood and also that She Shall have ye use & Improvement of all ye Rest of my Personal Estate during Her widdowhood: Excepting ye five Shillings next mentioned. Item I give & Bequeath unto my Son John Phinney five Shillings out of my moveable Estate which together with ye Lott of Land whereon He dwells and ye third Part of my meadow on Jones River: which sd Land & meadow I have already given unto Him by deed of gift: my Will is That He Rest Satisfyed therewith as His full Part & Portion of my Estate. Item, I give & Bequeath unto my two Sons Joseph Phinney & Palatiah Phinney all my Real Estate WhatsoEver to be Equally divided between them: Except what I have formerly given to my Son John by Deed of gift as aforesaid; as also Reserving unto their mother: ye use & Improvement of ye Sd Real Estate during Her widdowhood as is above Expressed. Item, I give & Bequeath unto my Said two Sons Joseph & Palatiah after their mothers Marriage or decease all my Stock of Creatures Except ye aforesaid Cow: and also I give unto my Said two Sons after their Said mothers marriage or decease all my out doors moveable Estate WhatsoEver: and whereas There is Three Pounds due to me from my aforesaid Son John Phinney, by one bill under His Hand, my will is That five Shillings thereof be Paid unto my daughter Alice Hamblin; and ye other twenty Shillings there of unto my daughter Mary Hamblin; which together with what I have formerly given them is their full Portion of my Estate and my will is that after ye marriage or decease of my aforesaid wife my two daughters mercy Phinney & Patience Phinney Shall Have all my Indoors moveable Estate whatsoEver to be Equally divided between them and my Will is that my aforesaid Son John Phinney Shall be Executor of this my Last Will & Testament thus Hoping that this my Last Will & Testament will be kept & Performed according to ye true Intent & meaning thereof: I comitt my Body to ye dust & my Soul to God that gave it: In Wittness whereof I ye Sd Joseph Phinney have here unto Sett my Hand & Seal this 27th day of June one thousand Seven Hundred twenty Six.

Signed Sealed & declared by ye above named

Joseph Phinney to be His Last will and

Testament: In ye Presence of us

Samuel Briant                                                                                                                      Joseph Phinney                (seal)

Isaac Waterman

Samuel Bryant Junr

 

Probated on 15 July 1726, and proved by Samuel Briant, Isaac Waterman, and Samuel Briant Junr.

 

The Inventory of all the Estate both Reall & Personell of Joseph Phinney, late of Plympton, was appraised by Isaac Cushman Junr., Richard Everson, and Samuel Briant on 28 July 1726, and totaled £262.10.6, including his farm with the meadows and buildings lying on Jones River valued at £186. John Phinney, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 23 Sept. 1726.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 5, p. 278-280, from FHL microfilm #0550511.

 

 

Will of Isaac Pinney of Stafford, Tolland County, Connecticut (1791) *

in the name of God amen this 27 Day of July AD 1791

I Isaac Pinney of Stafford in the County of Tolland and State of Connecticut in america, being far advanced in Life but of a Sound and perfect mind and memory Thanks be Given to God therefor, but Calling to mind the mortallity of my body and Knowing that it is appointed for all men once to Die do make and ordain this my Last Will and Testament, first of all, I give and Recommend my Sole into the hands of God who gave it, and my Body to the Earth to be buried in Decant and Christian Buriel nothing Doubting but at the general Reserection I Shall Receive the Same by the mighty power of God and as touching Such worldly Estate as it has pleased God to bless me in this Life, I Dispose of in the following manner ~~

Itim  my will is that (my Just Debts & funerel Charges be Paid out of my moveble Estate by my Executer Here after namd—

Itim  I Give and Bequeath unto my well belovid wife Susanah Pinney all my moveble Estate to her own Disposel for Ever, Except my oxen and my farming tolls which oxen and farming tools, I Give to my Belovid Son Daniel Pinney~

I also Give unto my sd wife Susanah the Use and improvment of all my Lands and Buldings so Long as She Shall Remain my wido all in Lieu of her Dowr

Itim  , and further my will is that all my Real Estate left after my Sd wife Susanah has Dun with it Shall be Devided among all my heirs as follows Viz

to my Loving son oliver Pinney one ninth Part~

to my Loving Son Isaac Pinney two ninths Partes~

to my Loving Son Danniel Piney three Ninths Partes~

to my Loving Daughter Susanah Richerdson Wife of Saml Richerdson one Ninth part

to my Loving Daughter Lydia Alden wife of Zenas Alden one Ninth Part, and one Ninth Part to to my Loving Daugher Sarah Edson wife to Josiah Edson, to them their Heairs and assignes for Ever

and if any of my Children shall bring in any Debts against my Estate Executrix as being Due against my Estate, my will is it be Paid out of his or hir Legasey, I do Nominate and appoint my Loving wife Susanah Pinney Executrix to Execute this my Last Will and Testament, and In testimony Whareof I have hereunto Set my hand and Seal the Day & Year before mentined,  Signd Seald pronounsed and Declared by the Sd Isaac Pinney to be his Last will and testement, in Presents of

John Willard                                                                                                                         Isaac Pinney                                      (seal)

Lydia Willard

Abigal Willard

 

Proved on 18 Oct. 1791 by Revd John Willard mis Lydia Willard and Abigal Willard, the witnesses to the within Will.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Town of Stafford Register of Probate Records Vol. 4, p. 10-11, from FHL microfilm #0005743.

 

 

Will of Isaac Pool of Bridgewater, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1758) *

In the name of God Amen the Eighth Day of Septr 1758 I Isaac Pool of Bridgwater in the County of Plymouth in New England being of a Sound & Disposeing Minde and Memory Thanks be given to the great god for it Calling to minde ye. mortallity of My bodey and Knowing that it is appointed unto all men onc To Die I Do make and ordain this my Last will & Testament that is To Say principally and first of all I give & Recommend my Sole unto the hands of God who Gave it and my bodey I Recommend I Recommend to the Earth to be buried with Cristian decent Burial at the Descresion of My Exectx. hereafter named nothing Doubting but at the Resurrection I Shall Receve the Same again by the Power of God all mighty and as Touching Such worldly Estate where with it has pleased god To bless me in this Life I Give Demise & Dispose of the Same in the following Manner and forme – that is To Say

1st. It is My will that all my Debts an Funeral Charges be well & Truly Paid in Convenient after my Decease

2dly I give and Bequeth unto my weell beloved wife Bethiah the Improvment of all my Estate During her nauteral Life I Give unto hir all my Indore Moveable Estate and all My Live Stok and all my out Door moveables of Every Sort and Kinde her & her heirs and Asignes for Ever.

3dly I give & bequeth To the Children of my well beloved Son Isaac Pool Deceased five Shillings to be Equally Devided amongst them

4hly. I give To my weel beloved Son Joseph Pool five Shillings

5hly. I give to my well beloved Daughter Hannah Pain in Providence five Shillings

6hly I Give To my weel beloved Mary Cook in Providence five pound Six Shillings & Eight Pence to be Paid out of My Moveble Estate

7ly. I Give To My weel beloved Daughter Mercy Pool & Sarah Pool and To my grand Son John Pool all my home farme to be Equally Devided between them uppon ye. Decease of My wife but My will and Pleasure is that my Two Daughters Mercy & Sarah Pooll Should have the Improvement of what I have given To my gran Son John Pooll Til he Comes to the age of Twenty one years in Cace my well beloved wife Should die before that Time and if he Said John Pooll Die before the age of 21 years all that I have given To him I give To my two Daughters Mercy & Sarah Pooll to be Equally Devided betwee them this and all that I have Given them is To them their heirs and asignes forever finally I Constitute appoint my weell beloved wife Bethiah Poole Executrix of this my Last will & Testament & I hereby Ratifye hold & Confirm this & no other to be my last will & Tetament and Disallowing all other wills before this Time by me made in Testimony whereof or in witnes whereof I have hereunto Set my hand & Seal the Day and year above written

Signed Sealed Published Pronounced & Delivd

by the Said Isaac Pool as his Last will                                                                             Isaac Pooll                         (seal)

and Testament in Presence of us

William Hudson

Isaac Washbourn

Hezekiah Hooper

 

Presented for probate on 2 July 1759 by the Executrix within named, and proved by Isaac Washbourn and Hezekiah Hooper, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to the widdow Bethiah Poole, the Executrix, on 2 July 1759.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Isaac Pool late of Bridgwater yeoman, was appraised on 29 Aug. 1759 by

Ebenezer Whitman, Cornelius Washburn and Jacob Hayward, and totaled £380.19.8, including his homestead with buildings valued at £293.6.8. Bethiah Pool, the Executrix, gave her oath to the inventory on 13 Oct. 1760.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 15, p. 237-237½, from FHL microfilm #0551543, and Vol. 16, p. 18-19.

 

 

Will of Thomas Pope of Dartmouth, Colony of New Plymouth (1683) *

July the 9th 1683

The Last Will and Testament of Thomas Pope being aged and weake of body But yett in prfect understanding and Memory wherin I have of my estate as followeth; I Give unto my son Seth as an adition to what I have formerly given him ten shillings in Mony alsoe I give unto my Grand son Thomas Pope all that my twenty five acrees of upland and two acrees of Meddow Lying and being on the west syde of Acushenett River be it more or lesse, and it is my desire that his father may take the said Land into his hands, and make the best Improvement of it that hee can for the good of my said Grand son untell hee comes of age to Make up of it himself; alsoe it is my mind that my son Seth shall in consideration of the aforesaid Land pay three pound sterling unto my Grand son Jacob Michell when hee Comes to age of twenty one yeares of alsoe I give unto my Daughter Deborah Pope five pound in Mony and to each of my other Daughters five pound a peece in Mony alsoe my meddow Lying att the south Meddowes in Plymouth or the vallue of it I give to be equally devided amongst all My Sones and Daughters; alsoe I give and bequeath unto my Son Isack all my seat of Land where I now dwell with all the Meddowes belonging thereunto and all the privilidges thereunto belonging To him his heires and assignes forever; But an if it should please God that hee should Decease without an heire before hee comes to the age of twenty and one yeares then my said seat of Lands shall belonge unto the sonnes of my son Seth, alsoe I give unto my son Isack all my houseing and houshold Goods of all sorts alsoe all my Cattle, and horse kind and swine; alsoe all sorts of Provisions alsoe Cows and plowes with all the takeling belonging unto them alsoe I Give unto my Son Isack all my mony except that which I have Given to my Daughters and I order my said Son Isack to pay all my Just Dues and to Receive all my Debts that are Due unto mee alsoe I order my Indian Lydia to live with my Son Isack untill he is one and twenty years of age and my Indian Gerle I Give to him During his life alsoe it is my mind and will that my Son Isack shall mak Noe conveyance without the Consent of his overseers; untill he be twenty yeares of age, I have made Choice of John Cook and My son Seth and Thomas Tabor to be for overseers, To see this My will prformed

Signed

Signed and sealed in presence                                                                                           Thomas Pope his T  Mark

of John Cook

and Thomas Tabor;

 

Agust The 4th: 1683

A true Inventory of the Lands goods and Chattles of Thomas Pope of the Towne of Dartmouth Late Deceased,

[Total £204.0.0, including his housing and the seat of Land belonging thereunto valued at £100, his 25 acres of upland and 2 acres of meadow lying on the west side of Cushenett River valued at £10, and his 7 acres of upland and 7 acres of meadow at Plymouth valued at £20.]

Taken by us the Day & year above written

Thomas Tabor

Arthur hathaway

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth Colony Records, Wills Vol. 4, Part 2, p. 50.

 

 

Will of Thomas Powell of Westbury, Hempstead, Queens County, Province of New York (1720) *

In the Name of God Amen the Last Will and Testament of Thomas Powell Senr late of Bethphage now of Westbury in the Limits of Hampstead in Queens County of Nassau Island in the Colony of New York Whereas the Certainty of Mortallity is before me and the uncertainty when the time of My Desolution shall come and now being Indiferent in Health and perfect Memory do hereby Make Ordain and Appoint this my Last Will and Testament for the Disposeing of what is Disposeable by me and in order thereunto I do in the first place give and Bequeath my Soul to God my Maker from whom I have Received Mercy and hope and beleive I ever shall as Keep in his fear and Stand in his Councell through Jesus Christ my Lord and Saviour who Suffered the Shamefull Death of the Cross without the Gates of Jerusalem and Ascended upon high and Led Captivity Captive and hath given Gifts unto Men for the Edifying of the Body his Church for the perfecting the Saints Among whom my Lott is fallen as well to beleive in his Gift as to Receive it so that by the prevailing of the Gift the giver working with it (I come to Know his Righteousness imparted as well as Imputed to me And in a sence thereof my Soul doth praise the Lord Jehovah who with his Glory Enlightens his Holy City the Lamb is the light thereof And the Nations of them that are saved shall walk in the light thereof so that by the Revelation of the Son of God in my inward parts which is Manifested by the Light for whatsoever makes Manifest is light I come to Witness the light of the Knowledge of the Glory of God in the Face of Jesus Christ, but we have this Treasure in our Earthen Vessells that the Excellency of the power may be of God And not of use And With the Holy Apostle Paul to Witness that God who Commanded the light to Shine out of Darkness to shine in our hearts Secondly I Give my Body to the Earth from whence it was taken to be Buried in Decent Manner at Discretion of my Executors herein After named and as to my Outward Estate after all my Just Debts are paid I Do Dispose of as followeth Imprimis I Will and Bequeath unto my Son Thomas Powell and to his heirs and Assigns for ever Twenty Acres of plain Land that I bought of John Wascoat and all the other Land and Right of Land that I have Given him Deeds of Gift for I Will and Bequeath unto my Daughter Abigail Willits one wainscoat Chest and a Box of Small Drawers that was her Mothers together with what other things she hath already had I Will and Bequeath unto my Sons John Powell and Jonas Powell and Caleb Powell and Wait Powell and Elisha Powell to them and to their heirs and Assigns forever all the Lands and Rights of Land and Meadow as is particularly Mentioned in their Several Deeds of Gifts for the same I Will and Bequeath unto my Son Caleb Powell and unto my Son Elisha Powell and to their heirs and Assigns forever the Equall two third parts of my said Lot of Meadow of Meadow lying on the great Neck at Huntington South lying on the West side of the third part of said Lot of Meadow that I sold to my Son Thomas Powell to be Equally Divided between them or their heirs and Assigns forever and Bequeath unto my Youngest Son Solomon Powell the Sum of Two Hundred pounds Currant Lawfull Money of New York to be paid unto him When he shall arrive to the age of one and Twenty Years of Age or shall have some Lawfull Issue begotten By his own Body or Which of them shall first happen but if my Son Solomon Powell happen to Dye before he arrive at one and Twenty Years of Age and have no lawfull Issue Begotten by his own Body Then the Abovesaid Two Hundred pounds shall be the Equall two third parts thereof Divided between all my Daughters that I have now living and the Children of my Deceased Daughter Elizabeth Titus to have one Equall Share Divided amongst them and all my Daughters to have and Equall Share & Share alike and if my Daughter Abigal Willits shall Dye before my Son Solomon Powell and my Son Solomon before he arrive at one and Twenty Years of Age or have any Lawfull Issue her part and Share of said Money shall be Equally Divided amongst all her Children and Whereas the said Two Hundred pounds Bequeathed unto my Son Solomon and in case of his Decease before he arriveth at the Age of one and Twenty Years or without Lawfull Issue the Equall two third parts thereof Bequeathed to All my Daughters is now due in the hands of my Son Thomas Powell My Will is that all the Mean profits and Rents thereof shall also be Equally Divided as the said Two third parts of The Two Hundred pounds Allowing to my Executors all their Just Charges About the Executing of this my Will and in case my Son live to the Age to Receive his portion Abovesaid he shall also have all the mean profits and Rents thereof Allowing the Charges of the Executors as abovesaid I Will and Bequeath in case my Son Solomon Dye Without Lawfull Issue or before he be one and Twenty Years Old the Equall one third part of the Two Hundred pounds Bequeathed to him to be Equally Divided between all my Sons (Vizt) my Son Thomas Powell and my Son John Powell and my Son Jonas Powell and my Son Caleb Powell and my Son Wait Powell and my Son Elisha Powell and in case of any of their Decease to their heirs and Also the Mean profits and Rents thereof as abovesaid I Will unto them I Will and Bequeath unto Samuel Titus the Sum of one pound and Ten Shillings Currant Money of New York in full for the Remaining part of his Wifes portion I Will and Bequeath unto my Two Youngest Daughters Sarah Powell and Amey Powell my Bed and Bedding And furniture belonging unto it I Will and Bequeath unto my Son Elisha Powell All my Apparell and Wearing Cloaths and all the Remaining part of my Estate in Money Goods and Chattells after my Just Debts are paid shall be Equally Divided amongst my Six Youngest Daughters Vizt my Daughters Mercy Powell and and my Daughter Sarah Powell Pheeby Willis and my Daughter Rachell Willits and my Daughter Mercy Powell and my Daughter Sarah Powell and My Daughter Amey Powell I do hereby Constitute Authorize Appoint and Ordain my Loving Brother Thomas Townsend and my Trusty and Loving Friend Benjamin Seaman and my Two Sons in Law William Willis and Henry Willis to be Executors of this my last Will and Testament And I do hereby Disallow Revoke and Disannull all and every other and Former Testaments Wills Legacies Bequests and Executors by me in any wise before this named Willed and Bequeathed Ratifying and Confirming this and no other to be my Last Will and Testament In Witness whereof I have hereunto Set my hand and Seal this Third Day of the first Month One Thousand Seven Hundred and Nineteen Twenty the word (whom) and the words (The Equall two thirds thereof Bequeathed) Interlined before Signing and Sealing thereof

                                                                                                                                                Thomas Powell                 (seal)

Signed Sealed published and Declared by the said Thomas Powell as his Last Will and Testament in the presence of us the Subscribers

Nathaniel Seaman

Silas Titus

John Willis

Jacob Willis

William Willis

 

Letters of Administration granted to Thomas Townsend, Benjamin Seaman, William Willis and Henry Willis, the Executors, on 27 Dec. 1722.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from New York County Probate, Vol. 9, p. 413-416, copied from original Liber 9, p. 351-354.

 

 

Will of Thomas Powell of Bethpage, Oyster Bay, Queens County, Province of New York (1731) *

                                                                                                                                                                The Last Will and Testament of Thomas Powell of Bethpage in the Township of Oyster bay in Queens County made the Sixteenth day of the ninth month called November And in the Year of our Lord Christ one thousand Seven hundred & thirty & one revoking whatsoever formerly by me made And this being my Last Will & Testament I being weak of body but perfect in mind & Memory I being willing to dispose of my outward Estate as followeth

                                                                                                                                                                And my will is that all my Just Debts shall be well and truly paid as I Shall hereafter appoint by my Executors hereafter named

                                                                                                                                                                Item in the first place I Give & bequeath to my Wellbeloved Wife Mary Powell My Dwelling house & the use and profitts of one third part of all my Lands and Meadows every where And my will is that My Wife Shall have half my moveable Estate in the House & one third part of my moveables without Doors Except my Carts & ploughs & Tackling belonging to them And my Smiths tools & My Will is that my wife shall keep them untill such a time Youngest Son Isaac Powell shall come to the Age of twenty years then to return to all my Sons Equally Amongst them

                                                                                                                                                                And my Will that my Son, Thomas Powell Shall have four Acres of Land and Housen that Stands upon it my Fathers Homested more than any of the rest of my sons Meaning the four Acres of Land with the Housen & Orchard to him his heirs and assigns forever

                                                                                                                                                                And I Give all the rest of my Land & Meadows both Salt & Fresh to my Seven Sons Namen my Son Thomas Powell and Wait Powell And Amos Powell and Moses Powell & Richard Powell & Joshua Powell & Isaac Powell to be Equally divided Amongst them to them their heirs and Assigns forever

                                                                                                                                                                And if either of my Sons dye without Children or before they come to take their part into possession it Shall be that their part Shall be Equally divided Amongst the Surviving Sons

                                                                                                                                                                In the next place I Give unto my Six Daughter by Name Abigail Hallick the of Peter Hallick And Mary Prior the wife of Samuel Prior And Elizabeth Powell And Hannah Powell & Martha Powell & Deborah Powell the one half of all my moveable Estate that that is not already disposed of & So two thirds of my Moveable without Doors what is not already disposed to them their heirs & Assigns forever

                                                                                                                                                                And in case any of my Daughters dye without Issue before they are in the possession of portion it shall be Equally Divided amongst my Surviving Daughters

                                                                                                                                                                My Will is if She Marry again that she shall have the half of the Indoors Moveables & one third of the outdoor Moveable to her for her own disposal

                                                                                                                                                                I do constitute And appoint my Son Thomas Powell And my Son Wait Powell And my Brother Wait Powell And my Wife Mary Powell All to be my Executors hoping they will this my Will Executed according as it is the Intent of it

                                                                                                                                                                And Lastly I desire my Brothers in law Richard Willitts & Samuel Underhill to oversee And Assist these my Executors

                                                                                                                                                                In Witness whereof I have hereunto Set my hand & Seal the day & Year first above written before Signing and Sealing my will is that my Executors Shall have full power to sell Land Where they think best for to pay the debts and their Deed or Deeds shall be Good

                                                                                                                                                Thomas Powell                 (seal)

Signed Sealed published & declared this My Last Will and Testamt. in the presence of the Subscribers

John Whittson

David Whitson

Henry Whitson

 

Letters of Administration on the Estate of Thomas Powell granted to two of his sons, Thomas Powell and Wait Powell, and to Wait Powell, his brother, and to Mary Powell, the widow of the deceased, on 18 Apr. 1732.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from New York County Probate, Vol. 11, p. 270-273, copied from original Liber 11, p. 284-287.

 

 

Will of Thomas Powell of Bethpage, Oyster Bay, Queens County, Province of New York (1755) *

I Thomas Powell of Bethphage in the Township of Oysterbay in Queens County on Nassau Island Yeoman being this second day of the second month called February in the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and fifty-five much indisposed of Body but of perfect mind and memory Do make and ordain this writing to be my last Will and Testament in manner following – First – I order that my debts and other Incidental Charges about my Estate shall be fully paid out of my moveable Estate in some reasonable time after my decease – Item – I will and bequeath unto my well beloved wife Abigail Powell the Issues and profits of the one third part of all my Lands and meadows wheresoever for her support and the East dwelling House that I dwell in all for her to use during the time she remains my widow – Item – I will unto my son Samuel Powell his heirs and assigns forever the Lot of Land that I bought of Caleb Powell which was John Powells – Item – I will and bequeath unto my son Thomas Powell his heirs and assigns twenty acres of my Land before a Division be made in general amongst my sons Item – I will & bequeath unto my son Joshua Powell his heirs and assigns forever Ten acres out of my Lands before a Division be made – Item – I will that my son Samuel his heirs & assigns shall have five acres of my Land before a Division – Item – I will that after my son Samuel has five Acres of Land my son Thomas twenty Acres my son Joshua Ten acres of Land that that then all the remainder part of my houses Lands Rights of Lands, and Meadows whatsoever and wheresoever shall be Equally divided amongst my Eight sons Viz’: Samuel, Thomas, Joshua, Joseph, Elisha, Amos, Israel and Jesse and to remain unto them In severalty their heirs and assigns forever so to be understood as not to Infringe or debar my wife from her priviledge of my House Lands and Meadows above mentioned to her during her widowhood And I do hereby fully and absolutely Impower my Executors or such of them that shall Execute this my will to make a full and Clear Division of my Lands amongst all my Sons In quality according to the above devise as they shall Judge equal and Just and the division so made by my Executors or such of them that shall so qualifie as aforesaid shall be good Stable and authentick to my Sons and to each of them in fee simple in as full a manner as if I had don it my self in my Life time to all Intents and purposes whatsoever and my Will is after my Debts are fully paid and other Charges accrewing about my Estate that the remainder part of my moveable Estate to be divided thus my wife to have the Indian Girl named Roda during her Widowhood and then my Daughter Mary Powell to have the said Indian Girl to her Disposal I also will unto my Daughter Mary Powell so much out of my moveable Estate as will make her portion equall with one of my two Daughters or what each of my two Daughters has had that are married. Then my will is that my wife shall have the one Equall third part of the remainder of my moveable Estate and the other two thirds to be Equally divid amongst my three Daughters – Elizabeth Post, Ruth Mott and Mary Powell to their free disposall and my will is that what I have above given to my wife shall be taken and Esteemed in lieu of her Right of Dower and not otherwise And my will is further that my Executors shall be Tutors and Guardians to all my Children under age and shall have full power to put and bind my three youngest Sons out to Trades according to their Inclinations and furthermore to explain my will in respect what I have given my son Samuel which is thus the Lott above mentioned which I bought of Caleb Powell is to be reconed as part of his portion (to be equall with the common division amongst my Sons only the five acres to be taken out first before the common division is made aforesaid)  Lastly – I do Constitute ordain and appoynt my Brother Isaac Powell my Brother in Law John Whitson and my Cousin Richard Willets of Islip to be my Executors of this my last Will and Testament impowering them or any of them to execute this my last Will and testament and every article Clause and Condition above expressed and further to make a division with the rest of the proprietors of Bethphage and to take what Land that falls to my right and to give releases when the division is finished to the other proprietors as fully as I could myself in my life time if I were personally present.

In witness hereunto I have set to my hand and fixed my seal the day and date above expressed.

                                                                                                                                                Thomas Powell                 (seal)

Signed Sealed published pronounced and declared by the said Thomas Powell as and for his last Will and testament in the presence of the subscribers which subscribed as witnesses in the presence of the testator

Mary Powell

Henry Whitson

Samuel Willis

 

Probated on 28 May 1757, and proved by Samuel Willis, a known Quaker, one of the witnesses. Letters of Administration granted to Isaac Powell and John Whitson, two of the Executors, on 22 July 1757.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from New York County Probate, Vol. 20, p. 296-299, copied from original Liber 20, p. 302-306.

 

 

Will of Benjamin Pratt of Bridgewater, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1753) *

  In The Name of God Amen. the thirtyfirst day of December 1753. I Benjamin Pratt of Bridgwater in the County of Plimouth in New-england yeoman being now of a disposing mind and memory thanks be given to God yet calling to mind the mortality of my body and knowing that it is appointed for all men once to die do make and ordain this my last will and Testament that is to say principally and first of all I give and recommend my soul into the hands of God that gave it & my body I recommend to the earth to be buried in a decent christian Burial at the discression of my executor hereafter named nothing doubting but at the resurrection I shall receive the same again by the power of God almighty and as touching such worldly estate as it hath pleased God to bless me with in this life I give demise and dispose of the same in the following manner & form that is to say

1. ‘Tis my will that all my debts & Funeral Charges be well & truly paid in convenient Time after my decease 2.  .  .  .

2. I give and bequeath unto my well beloved wife Sarah all my indoor Houshold stuff of every sort & kind two Cows, and one Horse, to be her,s forever, and for improvement one third part of all my land and half my dwelling house the east part of it, and half the Cellar and Well and order my Executor hereafter named to provide a sufficiency of fire wood for her at the Door fitt for the fire & all this while she remains my Widdow.

3. I give and bequeath to My well beloved Son Benjamin besides what I have already given him five shillings & no more.

4. I give and bequeath to my two grand daughters Sarah and Abigail the daughters of my well beloved Son Nathan decd. besides what I gave him five shillings and no more.

5. I give and bequeath to my well beloved Son John one part of my Homestead begining at the river the north side of the land that was Capt. woodwards running by the land that was Capt. woodwards when he decease,d to the head of his hundred Acre lot then running north eighty Rod and from thence to a strait line to the river eighty rod above the bounds first mentioned with all my Buildings upon the same –

6. I give and bequeath to my well beloved daughters Bethiah and Susannah thirteen pounds six shillings & eight pence each to be paid them out of moveable Estate not above disposed of when they shall come to the age of eighteen years.

7. I give and bequeath to my well beloved daughters Silence, Ann, Bethiah, & Susannah, all my lands and all my moveable estate not above disposed of to be equally divided among them the six and twenty pounds thirteen shillings & four pence Above mentioned to Bethiah and Susannah to be first taken out of my moveable Estate.

8. Finally I constitute and appoint my well beloved Son John, sole Executor of this my last will and Testament and do hereby ratifie and confirm this & no Other to be my last will & Testament and disallowing all other wills before this time by me made.
In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my Hand & seal the day & year before written.

Signed Sealed published and pronounced

& declared by the said Benjamin Pratt                                                                           Benjamin Pratt                                 (seal)

as his last Will and Testament in

Presence of us.

Benjamin Willis

Josiah Leonard

Jabez King

 

Presented for probate on 2 Aug. 1762 by John Pratt, the Executor therein named, and proved by Benja. Willis and Jabez King, two of the witnesses. Administration was granted to John Pratt, the Executor.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Benja. Pratt, late of Bridgwater, Yeoman, was appraised on 17 Aug. 1762 by Benja. Willis Jur., Jacob Hayward, and Daniel Snell, and totaled about £601, including the land with the buildings thereon which was given to John Pratt valued at £400, and the lands given to Silence, Ann, Bethiah and Susannah valued at £126. John Pratt, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 6 Sept. 1762.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 16, pp. 335-336, 386, from FHL microfilm #0551543.

 

 

Will of David Pratt of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1796) *

In the name of God amen. I David Pratt of Bridgwater in the County of Plymouth and Commonwealth of Massachusetts knowing that it is appointed for all Men once to die, do make and ordain this my last Will and Testament and firstly I give and recommend my Soul into the Hands of God who gave it and my Body to the Earth to be decently buried at the discretion of my Executrix, firmly believing that Jesus Christ is the Resurrection and the Life & that therefore though I die yet shall I live and receive my Body again at the general Resurrection by the mighty Power of God & as touching such worldly Estate with which God hath been pleased to bless me in this Life, I do hereby given and dispose thereof in Manner following viz –

Imprs. I give and bequeath unto Phebe my well beloved Wife the Improvement of all my Real Estate untill my Son David arrives to the Age of twenty one Years and after that one half of the Improvement, untill my Son Isaac shall arrive to the Years of twenty one, & after that time she shall have one third part of the Improvement of my Real Estate, together with the Improvement of one Room in my House one half of the Cellar one Bed & Furniture, one Cow & one third part of my indoor Moveables, all the above to be for her use, so long as she remains my widow & no longer. & I do hereby constitute make, & ordain my well beloved Wife Phebe Pratt my sole Executrix of this my last Will and Testament & I do hereby order & direct my Executrix to pay all my just debts & funeral Charges out of my quick Stock, but if that should not be sufficient, then the remainder to be taken out of my real Estate –

Item. I give and bequeath unto my Daughter Mary Pratt the wife of Joshua Pratt one Dollar, this together with what she has already had, I judge to be her full share out of my Estate. –

Item I give and bequeath unto my son Oliver Pratt one Dollar, this together with what he has already had I judge to be his full share out of my Estate. –

Item I give and bequeath unto my Son Jeremiah Pratt Fifty Dollars to be paid the one half by my Son David, and the other half by my Son Isaac in one year after my Son Isaac arrives to the Years of twenty one. –

Item I give and bequeath unto my Son Allen Pratt one Dollar, which together with what he has already had I judge to be his full share out of my Estate –

Item I give and bequeath unto my two Sons David & Isaac all my Real & personal Estate to be equally divided betwixt them after my just Debts and Legacies are paid ~~

And I do hereby ratify and confirm this & no other to be my last Will & Testament in Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand & seal this ninth day of March in the Year of our Lord one Thousand seven hundred & Ninety six –

The above named David Pratt signed, sealed

and declared the before & above written Instrument

to be his last Will & Testament in the presence of us

                                Nathan Dawes junr.                                                                             David Pratt                                        (seal)

                                Jacob Dawes

                                Simeon Gannett

 

Presented for probate on 5 Feb. 1810 by Phebe Pratt, the Executrix therein named, and proved by Jacob Dawes and Simeon Gannett, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Phebe Pratt, the before named Executrix.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 43, p. 121-122, from FHL microfilm #0550902.

 

 

Will of Eleazer Pratt of Middleborough, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1791) *

        In the name of God Amen.—I Eleazer Pratt of Middleborough in the county of Plymouth, in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, yeoman, being far advanced in life, and labouring under infirmities of body, but of a sound and disposing mind & memory, blessed be God for the same, wherefore calling to mind the mortality of my body, and knowing that it is appointed for all men once to die, do make & ordain this to be my last will & testament, to remain firm and inviolable forever, principally & first of all I give my soul to God that gave it and my body I recommend to the dust, to be buried in a christian decent burial at the discretion of my Executors hereafter named nothing doubting but that I shall recieve the same again at the general resurrection, by the mighty power of God, and as touching such worldly estate wherewith it hath pleased almighty God to bless me with, I do dispose of the same in the following manner & form vizt

        Imprimis—I Give and bequeath to my true & well beloved wife Hannah Pratt as her right of dower & power of thirds in my estate, yearly & every year, during her natural life, the use & improvement of all my indoor moveable estate except my desk, & also one good cow, well kept on my farm for her use, both winter & summer, and also the use of so much of my dwelling house, as she shall need for her use in that part that she shall best like, & also seven bushels of Corn & three bushels of Rye & one hundred pounds of good pork & fifty pounds of good beef, yearly, and also fire wood sufficient for her own use at her door fitted for her fire, and also all other necessaries suitable for her support in sickness & in health, including Doctors bills, nursing teas sweetning, cloathing, Sauce & every other necessary article to be provided & delivered to her as I shall hereafter in this my last will order—

        Item—I Give & bequeath to my Son Kimbal Pratt & to his heirs and assigns forever, that part of my Homestead Farm lying in said Middlebo, which I bought of John Leonard, and also one half of my Interest in Lands & mills in Dartmouth in the County of Bristol in sd Comonwealth, together with one half of the privileges & appurtenances thereunto belonging, and also one half part of all my out door moveable estate, always reserving & hereby ordering my said son Kimbal and his heirs & assigns forever to provide & deliver to my said wife the one half part of all, each & every article that I have by this my last will given to my said beloved wife, according to the true intent & meaning of the same in every particular, as I have expressed it in this my last will, Furthermore I hereby order & direct my said son Kimbal to pay to my Daughter Susanna Macumber or to her heirs, the sum of Fifty good silver Dollars, after the note of silver at six shillings & eight pence to the ounce, in one year after my decease, I also order him to pay to my Daughter Hannah Barden or to her heirs in one year after my decease Fifty Dollars of like money as aforesaid, I also order him to pay to my Daughter Lucy Leonard or to her heirs, in one year after my decease Fifty Dollars of money of like value as aforesaid. I Further give to my said son Kimbal & to his heirs & assigns the one half of all debts due to me & the one half of all my money on hand at my decease, and do hereby order him to pay the one half of my just debts, Funeral charges, and to be at one half of the expence of settling my estate. I also give to my said son Kimball one half of my wearing apparell

        Item—I Give & bequeath to my Son Paul Pratt & to his heirs forever, that part of my homestead farm which I bought of Elnathan Wood, with the buildings thereon, and also one half of my Interest of Lands & mills in the town of Dartmouth in the county of Bristol in said Commonwealth, together with one half of the privileges & appurtenances thereunto belonging, and also one half part of my out door moveable estate, always reserving to, and I do hereby order my said son Paul Pratt & his heirs & assigns forever, to provide for and to deliver to my said beloved wife, the one half part of all, each & every article that I have by this my last will given to my said wife, in every particular according to the true intent & meaning of the same in every particular, as I have expressed it in this my last will, & Furthermore I hereby order & direct my said son Paul to pay to my Daughter Susanna Macumber or to her heirs in one year after my decease Fifty good silver Dollars, of the value that I have described in this my last will. I also order my said son Paul to pay to my Daughter Hannah Barden or to her heirs Fifty silver Dollars of the value aforesaid in one year after my decease. I also hereby order my said son Paul to pay to my Daughter Lucy Leonard Fifty Dollars of the aforesaid value in one year next after my decease, I further give to my said son Paul Pratt & to his heirs & assigns forever, the one half part of all the debts that shall be due to me at my decease, & the one half of all my moneys on hand, my desk & one half of my wearing apparell, and I hereby order him my said son Paul to pay one half of my just debts, one half of my funeral charges & one half of the expence of settling my Estate

        Item—I Give and bequeath to each of my three Daughters vizt—Susanna Macumber, Hannah Barden & Lucy Leonard & to their Heirs & assigns Forever one Hundred Silver Dollars of the value of silver at six shillings & eight pence pr oz. to be paid to them or their heirs in one year after my decease, by my two afore named sons as I have afore directed in this my last will. I also give to my said Daughters to be equally divided between them or their Heirs, all of the personal estate that I have given the use of to my said beloved wife, after her decease,—I further order and hereby declare my will to be, that if in case any of my afore-named children should bring in any demands against my estate for any Labour that they have done for me since they arrived to the age of freedom, that the same sum being allowed should be deducted from their shares given them by this my Last will.—Furthermore my will is & I do hereby order my son Paul Pratt to improve that part of my estate that I have by this will given to my son Kimbal untill he shall return after my decease & take possession of it himself. I also order my said Son Paul to pay to my said wife & Daughters the same sums that my said son Kimball is to do, as directed in this will, if he shall not return seasonable to do it himself, and to charge for what he pays & to Credit for his improvements & equitably to settle the same with my son Kimball, if he should ever return, but if he my said son Kimbal should never return to take possession of the property that I by this will have given him, then my will is, and I hereby order that my said son Paul Pratt & his heirs & assigns forever should own & enjoy all of the afore described property that I have given to my said son Kimbal by his my said son Paul’s paying all of the several sums that I have in this my last will ordered my son Kimbal to pay

        Lastly—my will is, and I do hereby appoint my two aforenamed sons Kimbal Pratt & Paul Pratt Sole Executors to this my Last will & testament and I do hereby revoke & disannul all former wills made by me & establish this to be my last will & testament, hoping that the same may be kept & performed according to the true intent & meaning of the same. In witness whereof I the said Eleazer Pratt do hereunto Set my hand & Seal this second day of April in the year of our Lord seventeen hundred & ninety one

Signed, Sealed, Delivered, Published, pro-

nounced, declared & delivered in the                                                                                              Eleazer Pratt     (seal)

presence of us

                Edmund Weston

                Micah Bryant

                Isaac Thomson

 

Presented for probate on 3 Nov. 1795 by Kimball Pratt & Paul Pratt, the Executors therein named, and proved by Edmund Weston & Isaac Thomson, two of the witnesses.

 

The receipt of Henry Macumber of Taunton, cooper, and Susanna his wife, to Kimball Pratt & Paul Pratt, Executors of the will of our Hond father Eleazer Pratt, late of Middleborough, deceased, for the sum of thirty seven pounds lawful money in full of the legacy given to us…dated 2 July 1795.

 

The receipt of Hannah Barden of Dartmouth, who was the wife to Nathan Barden, late of Freetown, who hath been absent from me for more than five years & hath not since that time made any provision for my support, and I have heard nothing from him for several years Last past and do no know but he is dead, to Kimbal Pratt & Paul Pratt, Executors of the will of my Hond father Eleazer Pratt, late of Middleborough, deceased, for the sum of thirty seven pounds, which is in full of what was given to me by my said father…dated 2 July 1795.

 

The receipt of Henry Leonard of Middleborough, Husbandman, & Lucy Leonard his wife, to Kimball Pratt & Paul Pratt, Executors of the Last will & testament of our Hond father Eleazer Pratt, late of Middlebo, deceased, for thirty seven pounds in full of the legacy given to the said Lucy by the said deceased…dated 3 July 1795.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 35, pp. 381-383, 384, 385, from FHL microfilm #0550718.

 

 

Will of Hannah Pratt of Bridgewater, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1764) *

                                In the Name of God Amen.

The 30th. day of June 1764, I Hannah Pratt of Bridgwater in the County of Plimouth in New England Spinster &– being very weak in body but of perfect mind & memory thanks be given to God – Therefore calling to mind the mortality of my body & knowing that it is appointed for all man once to die do make & ordain this my last will & Testament (that is to say) principally & first of all I give and recommend my Soul into the hands of God that gave it & my Body I recommend to the earth to be buried at the discretion of my Executor hereafter named in decent Christian Burial nothing doubting but at the General Resurrection I shall receive the same again by the Mighty Power of God & as touching such worldly Estate wherewith it hath pleased God to bless me in this life I give & dispose of the same in the following manner & form. —

Imprimis. I give & bequeath to my eldest Brother Joseph five shillgs.

Item. I give and bequeath to my Brother Jonathan five shillgs.

Item. I give to my Brother Job five shillings. ~

I give to the heirs of my Sister Lidia five shillings –

Item. I give & bequeath to Hannah Curtis the Daughter of Edward & Abigail Curtis) my best Feather bed with the Furniture thereof to be delivered to her by my Executor when she arrives to the age of eighteen years & also my best suit of Cloaths & Gold Necklace & Stone Jewels, & one Gold Ring and Bible. ~

Item. I give & bequeath to my sister Thabitha Hayward my other feather bed & furniture & Chest of Draws & tea Table & Silver Shoe Buckles & Gold Ring.

And of the remainder that my debts shall be paid out of what is left & after all my debts are paid the remainder to be equally divided among all my Sisters which are now living. I likewise constitute & appoint my Brother & Law Seth Hayward my sole Executor of this my last will & Testament & confirm this my last will & Testament  In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand & Seal the day & year above written. —                                                            Hannah Pratt                    (seal)

Signed Sealed & pronounced by the

said Hannah Pratt as her last Will &

Testament in the Presence of us

the Subscribers.—

                                                Seth Pratt

                                                John Davenport

                                                Joseph Washburn Junr.

 

Presented for probate on 8 Oct. 1764 by Seth Hayward, the Executor therein named, and proved by Seth Pratt and Joseph Washburne Junr., two of the witnesses.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Hannah Pratt, late of Bridgwater, was appraised on 15 Oct. 1764 by Jacob Hayward, Seth Pratt, and Joseph Washburne Jr., and totaled £107.15.8, included notes against Joseph Washburne Jr., Jacob Hayward, Jeremiah Washburn, and Jonathan Pratt. Seth Hayward, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 13 Oct. 1767.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 19, pp. 114-115, 546, from FHL microfilm #0550711.

 

 

Will of John Pratt of Plympton, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1730) *

In the Name of God Amen. I John Pratt of Plimton in the County of Plymouth in New-England, Yeoman being Sick of Body but of sound & disposing Memory Thanks be given unto God for the same; but calling to Mind the Mortality of my Body & knowing that it is appointed for all Men once to dy do Make & Ordain this my last Will & Testament in Manner and Form following That is to Say My Soul I Give unto God that gave it My Body I Commit to the Earth to be decently interred at the Discretion of my Executr hereafter named Nothing doubting but at the General Resurrection I shall recieve the Same again by the Almighty Power of God ) And as for Such worldly Goods as it hath pleased God to bless Me withall in this Life I Dispose of as follows – My just Debts & Funeral charges being first paid—

Imprims I Give unto my Wife Margaret Pratt the Sole Improvement of my Whole Estate during her Life Excepting Such Lands as that I have already given unto my Son Thomas Pratt by one Deed of Gift bearing date before this present Will and also Excepting Such Lands as I shall give unto my Son John Pratt & unto the Children of my Son Ebenezer Pratt in this present Will. — —

Itm I Give & Bequeath unto unto my loving Son John Pratt the one half of my Land lying upon South Meadow Plain so called in the Township of Plimton aforesd. I Give it unto him his Heirs & assigns forever as a farther addition to what I have already given him as by One Deed of Gift as on Record may appear —

Itm My Will is that after my Wifes Decease that then my loving Son Thomas Pratt shall have my Housing uplands & Meadow Lands and Cedar Swamps Excepting Such Lands as I shall hereafter give unto the Children of my loving Son Ebenezer Pratt deceasd. I do Give it unto my Son Thomas Pratt & unto his Heirs and assigns forever And father I Give unto my Son Thomas Pratt my arms Together with my farming Utensils wch. sd. Housing Lands & Meadows I Give unto my sd Son Thomas Pratt with the Debts owing to me Provided he shall faithfully pay all my just Debts & funeral Charges —

Itm I Give & Bequeath unto the Children of my loving Son Ebenezer Pratt deceased the other Half of my Lands lying on South Meadow Plain abovesd. I Give it to them their Heirs and assigns forever equally to be divided amongst them I having heretofore Given unto my sd Son Ebenezer Pratt his full Proportion of my Estate —

Itm I Give & Bequeath unto my four Daughters Namely Joanna the Wife of John Cushman and Margaret the Wife of Richard Dwelley & Patience the Wife of Jabez Eddy & Mehetabel the Wife of Jabez Pratt as a farther addition to what I have already given them All my within door Moveables to be equally divided amongst them that is to Say after my Wifes decease always Excepting my Wearing apparrell

Itm I Give unto my sd Son John Pratt ye one half of my Wearing Apparrell—

Itm I Give unto my sd Son Thomas Pratt the Other Half of my Wearing Apparrell Together with my Neat Cattel Sheep Horse hine & Swine that is to Say after my Wifes Decease—

Lastly I Nominate & appoint my loving Son Thomas Pratt abovesd to be the Sole Executor of this my last Will & Testament Hereby Revoking & disallowing all other and former Wills by Me made either by Word of mouth or in Writing & Establishing this my last Will & Testament in Manner & form as is before Expressed. In Witness whereof I the aforesd John Pratt have hereunto Set my hand & seal the twenty third day of May in ye Year of our Lord One thousand Seven hundred & thirty — 1730 —

Signed Sealed Published & Declared as                                                         Memorandm the Words (With ye Debts

his last Will & Testament by ye aforesd                                                          owing to me) were Interlined before ye

John Pratt In Presence of us                                                                              Signing & Sealing of this present Will

Jeduthun Robbins      Abel Crocker                                                                 John Pratt          (Seal)

                Joseph Lucas

 

March the 5: 1730/31 The above named Jeduthun Robbins, Abel Crocker & Joseph Lucas made oath that they Saw the Above name John Pratt Sign Seal & heard him declare this Instrument to be his last Will and Testament and that they at ye Same time in the Presence of the sd Testator set to their hands as Witnesses and that according to the best of their observation he then was of a sound & disposing Mind and Memory       Before Isaac Winslow Judge of Probate

 

The Inventory of the Estate of John Pratt, late of Plympton, was appraised by Joseph Lucas, Jeduthan Robbins, and Abell Crocker on 18 May 1731, his real estate totaling £290.6.0, including his housing, lands and meadows appertaining to his homestead valued at £278.16, a cedar swamp valued at £6, his land lying on the south meadow plain valued at £5.10, and his personal estate valued at £120.16.2. Thomas Pratt, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 18 May 1731.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 6, pp. 1, 23-24, from FHL microfilm #0550512.

 

 

Will of John Pratt of Middleborough, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1743) *

I John Pratt of Middleborough in the County of Plymouth in New England being apprehensive of my Mortallity the day & hour being uncertain, & being now Sick & weak but of a perfect Memory and a Disposeing mind through Gods goodness to me, do Make this my Last will and testament ~ I do in the first place humbly and hopefully Resign up my selfe Soul & body unto god my heavenly father through Jesus Christ my Only Saviour & blessed Redeemer upon whom I wait for an Enterance into his Everlasting heavenly kingdom, when it shall please God to call me out of this present world, Adoreing that Infinite Mercy notwithstanding my Exceeding Great unworthiness has Discevered his beloved son Jesus Christ unto me as an Allsufficient Saviour in whom I trust for Salvation, and my beloved wife & Children I do Council & Commend unto the Saveing grace of God According unto his Everlasting Covenant. –  My Will is that after my Decease my body be Decently buried at the Discretion of my Executors nothing doubting but at the Generall Resurrection I shall receive ye same again by the mighty power of God, and as touching my worldly Estate wherewith it hath pleased god to bless me with in this life I give and Dispose of the Same in the following manner & form –

Im primis: That my funerall Expences be discharged and all my Just Debts honestly paid ~ Item I give & bequeath unto my well well beloved wife Elizabeth Pratt the Sole use and Improvement of one third part of my Estate bothe Real & personall so long as She Shall Remain my widdow and one third part of the personall Estate to be disposed of by her among my Children as She shall think best –

Item I give and bequeath unto my Eldest son John Pratt when he Shall arrive to the age of twenty one years all my homestead both housing & lands Excepting the lower feild next to mr. Jabez Edys land

Item, I Give and bequeath unto my yonguest son Jedediah Pratt when he Shall arrive to ye. Age of twenty one years, The lower feild next to mr. Eddys as Above mentioned as the fence now runs between my homestead and sd. Feild also the same range to Setruct Meadows, and allso all my land where Edward Hackett formerly Dwelt, and it is to be understood that my sons abovenamed shall not molest their mother in the improvement of her part as is above Expres’d, Item I give and bequeath unto my Eldest daughter Hannah Pratt the sum of fifty pounds in bills of Creditt of the old tenour as her part or portion out of my Estate Item I give and bequeath unto my Second Daughter Kezia Pratt the Sum of fifty pounds in bills of Creditt of the old tenour as her part or portion out of my Estate, Item I give & bequeath unto my youngest daughter Sarah Pratt the Sum of Fifty pounds in bills of Creditt of the old tenour as her part and portion out of my Estate and my will is that my son John Pratt shall pay to my three Daughters The before mentiond Sums in the following manner vizt That he pay to my Daughter Hannah Pratt Fifty pounds in bills of the old tenour or Equal thereto when he Shall arrive to ye. age of twenty two years and that he pay my Second Daughter Kezia Pratt fifty pounds in bills of Creditt of the old tenour or Equal therto when She Shall arrive to ye. age of Eighteen years and that he pay to my yonguest daughter Sarah Pratt fifty pounds in bills of the old tenour or Equal thereto when she Shall arrive to ye age of Eighteen years, And my will is that if Either of my Daughters before named Should not arrive to ye age or time when they Should receive their parts or portions as before Expresed, my will is that my Son John Pratt Shall pay the respective part he should have paid to them at ye. time they Should have Receivd ye. Same unto his brother Jedediah Pratt if then Liveing, and my will is that my well beloved wife Elizabeth Pratt Shall have the whole Improvemt. of my Estate both Real and personall untill ye time that my abovenamed son John Pratt Shall arrive to the age of twenty one years for her Support and to Enable her to bring up my Children ~ And I do Constitute and appoint my wellbeloved Wife Elizabeth Pratt to be my Executrix and my Loving Brother Israel Turner of Pembrooke to be Joynt Executors with her to see this my will fullfild and I do declare this to be my last will and Testament and have hereunto Set my hand & Seal this Eighteenth Eighteenth day of April one thousand Seven hundred & forty three and in the Sixteenth year of his Majties Reign –

Signed Sealed & publishd                                                                                                  John Pratt                          (seal)

In the presence of

Benja White

Jacob Green

Benjamin White Junr.

 

Presented for probate on 6 June 1743, and proved by Benjamin White and Jacob Green, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration granted to Eliza. Pratt, of Middleboro., widdow, and Isral Turner of Pembrooke, yeoman, Joynt Execrs, on 6 June 1743.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 9, p. 86-88.

 

 

Will of Joseph Pratt of Bridgewater, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1753) *

In the Name of God-Amen; the tenth Day of Septr Anno Domi, One Thousand Seven Hundred & Fifty three, I Joseph Pratt the Second of Bridgwater in the County of Plimouth in the province of the Massachusetts Bay in New England Yeoman being Infirm in Body, but of perfect mind & memory Thanks be given to God; therefore calling unto mind the Mortality of my Body and knowing that it is appointed for all men Once to Dye, Do make and Ordain this my Last Will and Testament, that is to Say Principally and first of all I Give & Recommend my Soul into the Hands of God that Gave it, & my Body I Recommend to the Earth to be Buried in Decent Christain Burial at the Discretion of my Execr, nothing Doubting but at the Generall Resurrection I Shall Receive the Same again by the mighty power of God, and as Touching Such worldly Estate wherewith it hath pleased God to Bless me in this Life I Give, Demise and Dispose of the same in the Following manner and Form—

Imps. I Order all my Just Debts and Funeral Charges to be Justly and Truely paid by my Execr, hereafter to be Named Out of my Moveable Estate in Convenient time after my Decease

Item, I Give and Bequeath to my well beloved Wife Else The Improvement of one third part of my Improved Land, the use of the West Room in my Dwelling House with the Bed Room Adjoyning thereto the use of the Cellar under the sd West Room, the use of the Oven & Well as She Need, them and a Supply of Fire Wood at the Doore and the Priviledge of a Horse to Ride on when she thinks Necessary. also this to belong as She Shall remain my Widow; also I Give and Bequeath unto her one Cow, six Sheep, Freely by her to be Injoyed, and the use of the Houshold Goods and moveable Effects which She Brought with her During her Life

Item, I Give and Bequ to my Well Beloved Son Joseph the sum of Five Shillings and no more—

Item, I Give and Bequeath unto my Well Beloved Son Jonathan all my Right or Title in or unto that Tract of Land on which he now Liveth, and one half of the Cedar Swamp which I have in Bridgwater

Item, I Give and Bequeath to my well=Beloved Son Job all the Land Belonging to my Homstead, or else where not above Disposed off and half apurchase right in the Common & Undivided Lands in said Bridgwater, also One Yoke of Oxen One Cow, One Horse and all my Sheep not above Disposed of and all the Husbandry Tools and Implements Belonging to my Farm—

Item  I Give and Bequeath to the Children of my well=beloved Daughter Lydia Decd the Sum of Five Shillings to be Equally Divided amon them and no more

Item, I Give and Bequeath to my Daughter Susanna five Shillings and no more—

Item, I Give and Bequeath to my well=beloved Daughters, Hannah, Tabitha, Charaty, Deliverance & Abigaill all my Moveable Estate not above Disposed off, after my Debts and Funeral Charges Shall be paid Out of same, always excepting one Half of the money which Belonged to my well=beloved wife Else before my Marriage to her

Item  I Give and Bequeath to Thomas Cushman, Son to my well Beloved wife Else One half of the money which belong’d to her the sd Else before my Marriage to her, and two third parts of the Other moveable Effects which Belong’d to her the sd Else before my Marriage to her by him Freely to be Enjoyed after her Decease—

Item  I Do Hereby Constitute and Appoint my well=beloved son Job Sole Execr of this my Last Will and Testament, and I Do Hereby Utterly Disalow, Revoke and Disanull all and every Other Former Testamt, Will, Legacies and Bequests of Execrs by me in any ways Before named will’d & Bequest’d Ratifying and Confirming this and no Other to be my Last Will and Testament – In Witness whereof I have Hereunto Sett my hand and Seal the Day and Year abov written

                                                                                                                                                Joseph Pratt      (seal)

Sign’d Seal’d Published, Pronounced

and Declared, by the sd. Joseph Pratt

as his Last Will and Testament

In the presence of us the Subscribers

Seth Pratt

Joseph Orcutt

Jacob Hayward

 

Probated on 3 Feb. 1755, proved by Seth Pratt & Jacob Hayward, and Job Pratt was confirmed as the executor.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 13, p. 386-387, from FHL microfilm #0551540.

 

 

Will of Joseph Pratt of Bridgewater, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1755) *

In the Name of God Amen the thirteenth day of March 1755. –

I Joseph Pratt of Bridgwater in the county of Plymouth in New-England husbandman, being now of a sound disposing mind & memory; thanks be given to the great God, Yet calling to mind the mortality of my body, & knowing that it is appointed for all men once to die, do make & ordain this my last will & testament. – (that is to say) principally & first of all, I give & recommend my Soul into the hands of God that gave it, & my body I recommend to the dust, to be buried with christian decent burial at the discression of my executors here afternamed, nothing doubting but at the resurrection I shall receive the same again, by the power of God Almighty. And as touching such worldly estate wherewith it hath pleased God to bless me, I give & dispose of the same in the following manner & form (that is to say) ‘Tis my will that all my Debts & funeral charges be paid in convenient time after my decease. —

I give & bequeath unto my well beloved wife, Anna, a third part of my moveable estate, within doors to be her,s forever; & a third part of my out door moveables, & a third part of my estate, one room in my dwelling house for her to live in, the room which she chooses, all this to be improved by her, whilst she remains my widdow. One Cow to be kept for her through the year & a sufficiency of fire wood at the door.

With respect to my well beloved Son Joseph Pratt decd. having given him his portion while he lived, I further give unto his two sons Jonathan & Job Pratt, one half of my cedarswamp, in the little cedar swamp, (so calld.) that part of it, of later years improved by their father to be equally divided between them. –

I give & bequeath unto my well beloved son Benjamin besides what I have already given him, four pounds, to be paid him in Moveables ~

I give & bequeath unto my well beloved son Solomon six pounds thirteen shillings & four pence to be paid him in moveables. ~

I give & bequeath unto my well beloved son David, besides what is already here given him one half of my wearing apparel. ~

I give & bequeath unto my well beloved son Samuel, that tract or parcel of land, which I bought of Mr. Benjamin Allen formerly of Bridgwater in the east Precinct in Bridgw. on which his dwelling house now stands, containing by estimation about seventy five acres; & one half of my wearing Apparel. –

I give & bequeath unto my grandchildren, the children of my well beloved daughter Sarah, deceasd., Ebenezer, Nathaniel & Caleb Snow, thirteen shillings & four pence, each, to be paid them when they come to the Age of twenty one Years. ~

I give & bequeath unto my grandson Seth Pratt the son of my well beloved Son Nathll. Pratt decd. to him his heirs & assigns forever all my homestead, or home lying according to the known bounds thereof & all my out lands & all my outlands & half my cedarswamp besides what I,ve already given away & all my outdoor moveable estate of every sort & kind.

I give & bequeath unto my grand daughter Anna, the daughter of my well beloved Nathaniel decease,d ten pounds thirteen shillings & four pence, with all my indoor moveable estate, of every sort & kind, besides what I have disposd. off before mentioned. ~

I give & bequeath to my grand daughter Joannah Conant, one pound six shillings & eight pence. ~

‘Tis my will that my daughter in law Hannah the widdow of my son Nathll. should have the use of the west part of my dwelling house while she remains his widdow. ~

And I do hereby constitute & appoint, my grandson Seth Pratt, above mentioned, together with Jacob Hayward of Bridgwater to be executors of this my last will & Testament, & I do hereby order him (namely my grandson Seth Pratt to pay the legacies in this will mentioned; the respective sums to one and another, as before specified; & do hereby ratify this, & no other to be my last will & testament, & disallowing all other wills before this time by me made. In Witness whereof I,ve hereto set my hand & seal the day & Year abovewritten.—

Signd., seald., publishd., pronouncd. &

declard., by the sd. Joseph Pratt as his                                                                              Joseph Pratt                      (seal)

last will & Testament in ye prescence of us

Cornelius Washburn, Josiah Washburn, Thomas Cushman.

 

Presented for probate on 1 Apr. 1765 by Seth Pratt, one of the executors therein named, and proved by Josiah Washburne and Thomas Cushman, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Seth Pratt, the before named Executor, with Thomas Mitchel and Thomas Cushman, both of Bridgwater, as sureties.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 19, p. 188-190, from FHL microfilm #0550711.

 

 

Will of Joshua Pratt of Plymouth, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1698) *

Be it known to all men by these presents that I Joshua Pratt of ye Town of Plimouth in ye County of Plimouth in New England, Being weak & sick of Body but of disposing mind and memory praysed be God yet not knowing how soon it may please God to take me out of this vale of tears do therefore make & ordayn these presents to be my last will and testament And I do by these presents make and ordaine this Instrument to be my last will and Testament In manner following. Impris I Give and Bequeath my Soul to God that Gave it and And my Body to the Dust & to a decent Burial in hopes of a joyfull Resurrection through the merrits of my Dear redeemer And as to my outward Estate that God hath Given unto me I Dispose of as followeth Item I do give unto my Dear and Loving wife Mary pratt All ye Improvements of my whole Estate both personall and Real to be for her use support and comfort And for ye Bringing up of my son and daughter untill my said Son comes to ye Age of twenty one years if my said wife Mary pratt continues my widdow so long But if my said wife should be married to another man then my will is that she shall have one third part of my personall Estate that then shall be found And not in this my Last Will Disposed of for her to Dispose of as she shall see cause for—

Item I Do Give unto my son Joshuah pratt all my upland meadow lands and Housing upon them for him to have and Enjoy when he comes to ye Age of Twenty one years said Housing lands I do Give unto my said son Joshua Pratt And to his Heirs and Assigns for ever.  Also I do Give unto my son Joshua Pratt that Gun that was my fathers And my sword—

Item I Do Give unto my daughter Elizabeth ten pound to be paid by said son Joshua Pratt upon his Entrey upon said Land that I have here Given him my will is that in case my said wife should marrey again then my other two thirds of my Estate shall be Equally Divided between my two children above named But in case she should remain my widdow then my whole personall Estate I do give unto her During her naturall Life as also one third of ye Improvement of my Housing and Lands During ye time of her widdowhood  Lastly I Do nominiate and appoint my Loving wife Mary Pratt to be ye sole Executrix of this my last will and Testament to receive such debts as is owing unto me and to pay such debts as I do owe and to see my Body Decently Buryed and to Defray ye charge thereof—Thus knowing that this my Last will will be observed and kept hereby revoking all former wills Either verball or written I the said Joshua pratt have hereunto set my hand and Affixed my seal on ye Twenty fifth day of January one thousand six hundred ninety seven Eight.

Signed sealed and Declared to be his                                                                               The  ξ  mark of

Last will and Testament in presence                                                                                                Joshua Pratt       (seal)

of    John Carver

        Giles Rickard junr

        Thomas Faunce

 

                                                                                                Plimouth March 16th 1697/8

Thomas Faunce John Carver and Giles Rickard the witnesses as here named made oath before Wm Bradford Esqr Judge &c That they were present and saw and heard Joshua Pratt ye Testator above named Signe Seal and Declare The above written Instrument to be his last Will and Testament And that to ye Best of their Judgment he was of sound disposing mind and memory when he did ye same

                                                                                                Attest Saml Sprague Registr

 

Letters of Administration on the estate of Joshuah Pratt were granted to Mary, his wife, the Executrix, on 16 March 1697/8.

 

An Inventory of ye Estate of Joshua Pratt Late of Plimouth deceased Taken and Aprized on ye 2 cond of March 1697/8 by us whose names are here unto subscribed [Not totaled]

John Carver

Giles Rickard junr

 

Mary Pratt Relict & widdow Joshua Prat above named deceased & Executrix of his last will made oath in Plimouth March 16th: 1697/8 Before William Bradford Esqr Judge &c That ye above written is a true Inventory of all & singular ye Goods Chattels Rights & Credits of sd deceased so far as she yet knoweth & that when she knows of more it shall be Added.

                                                                                                Attest Saml Sprague Register

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 1, p. 280, from FHL microfilm #0550706.

 

 

Will of Joshua Pratt of Pembroke, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1769) *

                                                In the Name of GOD, Amen,

The fourteenth day of December one thousand seven hundred and sixty nine I Joshua Pratt of Pembroke in the county of Plymouth in New-England cordwainer being in a poor state of health, but of perfect mind and memory thanks be given to GOD, therefore calling to mind the mortality of my body and knowing that it is appointed for all men once to dye, do make and ordain this my Last will and testament, that is to say, principally and first of all I give and recomend my soul into the hands of GOD that gave it, and my body I recomend to the earth to be buried in decent, christian burial at the discretion of my well beloved wife Deborah Pratt whom I apoint my sole executrix of this my Last will, nothing doubting but at the general resurrection I shall receive the same again by the mighty power of GOD; and as touching such worldly estate wherewith it hath pleased GOD to bless me with in this Life, I give, demise, & dispose of the same in the following manner and form. ~

        Imprimis, I give and bequeath to my well-beloved wife Deborah Pratt all the personal estate which she brought to me together with all the repairs of the same, also all my quick-stock that shall be left after the legacies are paid which are hereafter-mentioned. ~

        Item, I give and bequeath to my son Joshua Pratt the one half of my wearing aparel. ~

        Item, I give and bequeath to my daughter Lydia Studley,s heirs one shilling, to be paid in two months after my decease by my executrix.

        Item, I give and bequeath to my daughter Barsheba Pratt, one shilling, to be paid in two months after my decease, by my executrix.

        Item, I give and bequeath to my daughter Mary Bowker one shilling, in two months after my decease to be paid by my said executrix.

        And the remainder part of my said estate not heretofore mentioned, I give and bequeath to my grandson Joshua Pratt. ~

        In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal the day & year abovesaid. –

Signed, sealed, published & delivered by                                                                       Joshua Pratt                      (seal)

the said Joshua Pratt as his last will &

testament in the presence of us the Subsrs.

Edward Thomas, Bildad Soul, John Thomas

 

Presented for probate on 25 June 1773 by Deborah Pratt, the Executrix therein named, and proved by Edward Thomas, Bildad Soul and John Thomas, the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Deborah Pratt, the before named executrix.

 

The Inventory of the estate of Joshua Pratt, late of Pembroke, was appraised on 25 June 1773 by Edward Thomas, Bildad Soul, and John Thomas, and totaled only £19.4.7, no real estate or livestock.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 21, p. 288-289, from FHL microfilm #0550712.

 

 

Will of Joshua Pratt of Bridgewater, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1772) *

                                                In the Name of GOD, Amen. the eleventh day of July 1772.

I Joshua Pratt of Bridgwater in the county of Plymouth in New-England blacksmith, being advanced in age and knowing it is apointed for all men once to die, do make and ordain this my last will and testament, that is to say, principally, and first of all I give and recomend my soul into the hands of GOD that gave it, and my body I recomend to the earth to be buried in decent Christian burial at the discretion of my executor, nothing doubting but at the general resurrection I shall receive the same again by the mighty power of GOD, and as touching such worldly estate wherewith it hath pleased God to bless me with in this life, I give demise and dispose of as follows, viz. ~

        Imprimis I give and bequeath to Experience my beloved wife the use and improvement of all my indoors movables, and one third part of the yearly produce of my farm, and one third part of the use of one half my quick-stock, and the use of two cows together with a sufficient room in my dwelling-house, during her natural life. – Item, I give and bequeath to Joshua Pratt my beloved son all my buildings and lands both my homestead-farm and outlands, to him his heirs and assigns forever, he paying my just debts and funeral-charges, and the several legacies hereafter-named. I also give to my son Joshua (whom I constitute make & ordain the sole executor of this my last will & testament) two yokes of oxen, cart & wheel’s, and all my farming-tools, & smith tools, and the use of one half of my quick-stock in thirds with my said widow, during her life. I also give to my son Joshua all my wearing-aparel, and all my books of every kind. – Item, I give to my daughter Mary Ramsdell four pounds, to be paid her by my executor, which (together with what she has already had) I judge to be her full share out of my estate.

        Item, I give to my daughter Sarah Pratt forty pounds to be paid her by my executor as also sufficient house-room for her so long as she shall live unmarried, and I give to my daughter Sarah Pratt, and to my daughter Hannah Allen, and to my daughter Experience Lowden, the one half of my quick-stock (excluding two yokes of oxen already given to Joshua) to be equally divided betwixt them at my decease; and the other half quick-stock, and all my household goods, I order to be divided betwixt them in like mañer after my wife,s decease. – Item, I give to my grandaughter Margaret daughter to Mary Ramsdell aforesaid ten pounds, to be paid by my executor in household goods within one year after my decease. ~

And the rest of my estate (if any there be) I give to my said executor, ratifying and confirming this and no other to be my last will & testament. In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal the day and year above-written. ~

Signed, sealed, & pronounced & declared by                                                                Joshua Pratt                      (seal)

the sd. Joshua Pratt as his last will & testament

before us the subscribers    Isaac Otis

                                                Josiah Otis

                                                David Kingman

 

Presented for probate on 2 Nov. 1772 by Joshua Pratt, the Executor therein named, and proved by Josiah Otis and David Kingman, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Joshua Pratt, the Executor.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Joshua Pratt, late of Bridgewater, was appraised on 6 Nov. 1772 by Edward Mitchell, Isaac Otis, and David Kingman, and totaled £661.6.10, including his homestead farm with the buildings and outlands valued at £466.13.4. Joshua Pratt, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 7 Dec. 1772.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 21, p. 202-203, from FHL microfilm #0550712.

 

 

Will of Joshua Pratt of Plympton, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1801) *

In The Name of God Amen.—I Joshua Pratt of Plymton in the County of Plymouth & Comwealth of Massachusetts, Husbandman, do by these presents, this Seventh day of August, in the year of our Lord, One thousand Eight Hundred & one, make & ordain this to be my last will & testament, that is to say, first of all; I give & recommend my soul to God, who gave it, and my body, to the earth, to be decently, buried at the discretion of my Executrix, hereafter named; and as touching such worldly estate, as it pleased God to bless me with, after my just debts & funeral are first paid, I give, bequeath & dispose of in the following manner and form—vizt—

Imprimis.—I Give and bequeath unto my beloved wife Rebeccah Pratt, all my Estate, both real & personal, to be enjoyed, improved and disposed of by her, as she sees cause forever, enjoining on her as my will that she my said wife shall support my Honored Mother, Mary Pratt in an honorable & comfortable manner, in sickness & health, during her natural life, and at her deceased, give her a decent christian burial.—And I do also by this my last will & testament, appoint my well beloved wife Rebeccah Pratt Sole Executrix to this my last will.—In Witness whereof, I have hereunto Set my hand & Seal the day and year above written.—

Signed Sealed, Published & De-                                                                                       Joshua Pratt                                      (seal)

clared, in presence of us witnesses

                Joel Ellis

                Jonathan Nye

                William Shaw

 

Presented for probate on 1 Feb. 1802 by Rebeccah Pratt, the Executrix therein named, and proved by Joel Ellis, Jonathan Nye and William Shaw, all the witnesses.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 38, p. 12-13, from FHL microfilm #0550720.

 

 

Will of Joshua Pratt of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1813) *

This is the last Will and Testament of me, Joshua Pratt of Bridgwater in the County of Plymouth & Commonwealth of Massachusetts Gentleman which I do make being weak in Body but of sound Mind, Memory & understanding & I do publish in manner & form following, viz –

  My Body I commit to the Earth to be decently interred at the Discretion of my Executor herein after named, resigning my Soul into the hands of the Almighty Author of its Existence humbly hoping for Salvation, through the Merits of our Saviour – And as to the Estate Real & personal, of which I am seized & possessed or shall die seized & possessed of, all my debts & funeral charges being first paid by my Executor I give & dispose of the Remainder & Residue thereof as follows —

        First I give and bequeath to my beloved Wife Mary Pratt the Use & Improvement of one third part of my Real Estate & one third part of my Dwelling house during her natural Life. also I give & bequeath to her two Cows & all my Household Furniture —

        Item I give and bequeath to my eldest Son William Pratt & to his Heirs & Assigns my Homestead Farm with the Buildings thereon standing except the Lands that I have given to my Son Dexter Pratt, also about twelve acres of Wood land near Benjamin Pincin’s which I bought of Isaac Lazell – Also all the Meadow & other Lands I own in Pembroke lying on Poor Meadow River (so called) excepting about three Acres of Meadow Land I have given to my Son Dexter Pratt & one Acre & half of the Land I bought of Abner Magoun, I have given to my said son Dexter Pratt, & also one half my wearing Apparel–

        Item I give & bequeath unto my Son Dexter Pratt & to his Heirs & Assigns about fourteen acres of Land that I bought of Winslow Thomas & is bounded by James Thomas’s Lands on the southerly side by Winslow Thomas on the Easterly side, by Welcome Otis’s Land on the Northerly side & by the road leading to Abington on the westerly side – also twelve Acres & half of Land I bought of Ambrose Allen – Also a privilege of living in my house ‘till he marries, also a piece of Land adjoining the southerly side of the said Land I bought of Ambrose Allen bounded as follows, beginning at the southerly corner of said Land by the Road leading to Abington, thence by said Road southerly to a large heap of Stones by a Stone Wall, thence running westerly by said Stone Wall & in that direction ‘till a parallel drawn from said Range to the said Land I bought of said Ambrose Allen will make nine Acres – also about three Acres of Meadow Land lying in Pembroke on (Poor Meadow River (so called) bounded by George Briggs’s Land on the southerly side by Daniel Beals’s Land on the Easterly side to the Upland & by the upland to the River – also one half of three Acres of Land that I bought of Abner Magoun adjoining said Meadow & comes to the Road leading by Elisha Sherman’s & also one half of My wearing Apparel —

        Item I give & bequeath unto my Daughter Nabby Whitman Wife of Eleazer Whitman Junr. fifty Dollars in Money to be paid out of my Estate by my Executor in two years after my decease –

        Item I give & bequeath unto my Daughter Polly Pratt three hundred Dollars in Money to be paid out of my Estate by my Executor in two years after my decease – also a privilege of living in my House untill she marries —

        Item I give & bequeath unto my Daughter Sally Crane, Widow, one hundred Dollars in Money to be paid out of my Estate by my Executor in two years after my decease, & also a privilege of living in my House untill she marries again —

        Lastly As to all the Rest, Residue & Remainder of my Estate Real & personal, Goods & Chattels of what kind or nature soever not by me devised or bequeathed I give & bequest the same to my eldest Son William Pratt, whom I hereby appoint sole Executor of this my last Will & Testament hereby revoking all former Wills by me made – In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand & seal the twentieth day of July in the Year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred & thirteen —

Signed, sealed, published & declared by the above named Joshua Pratt

to be his last Will & Testament in the presence of us who have here-                      Joshua Pratt                                      (seal)

unto subscribed our Names as Witnesses in the presence of the Testator ~

                Ezra Kingman

                Lewis Chamberlin

                Welcome Otis –

 

Presented for probate on 6 Dec. 1813 by William Pratt, the Executor therein named, and proved by Ezra Kingman Esqr. and Welcome Otis, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to William Pratt, the before named Executor.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 45, p. 170-172, from FHL microfilm #0550903.

 

 

Will of Nathaniel Pratt of Abington, Plymouth County, Massachusetts Bay (1779) *

                The Seventeenth day of February Anno Dom. 1779 I Nathaniel Pratt of Abington in the county of Plymouth and State of the Massachusetts Bay in New England, yeoman, being weak and infirm in body, but of sound mind & memory, calling to mind the mortality of my body & being desirous to Settle and dispose of the outward Estate which God hath Graciously Given me, do make and Ordain this my Last will & Testament, that is to say principally and first of all, I Recommend my soul into the hand of God that Gave it and my body to the Dust to be Interr’d in a Christian manner according to the discretion of my Executor hereafter named, and as touching such temporal Estate wherewith it hath pleased God to bless me in this Life, I Give demise & dispose of the same in the following manner & form

Imprimis—my mind & will is that as soon as my Grandson Daniel Lincoln Pratt arrives at the age of twenty one years, the Land on which my Son Whitcomb Pratt (now deceased) Lived should be sold by my Executor & that one half of my Debts be paid with the money that may be obtained by the Sale of said Estate provided it be not done before my decease, and that the other half of sd money be Equally divided between my Grand Children vizt. Thomas Pratt, Whitcomb Pratt Daniel Lincoln Pratt and also Nathaniel Pratt Son to my Grandson Nathaniel Pratt deceased, provided he should Live to the age of twenty one years; and my Grand daughters vizt. Elisabeth Stetson, Olive, Chloe and Lydia Pratt

Item—I Give and bequeath unto my beloved Daughter Betty Pratt now widow to my Son Whitcomb Pratt Late of Abington deceased, the south part of my house in which she now Lives for her use and improvement, so Long as she continues my son’s widow, together with the priviledge of keeping one Cow upon the place summer & winter, one half of the Apples in the Orchard, Land for a Garden, use and improvement of the well, Room to Lay wood, one half of the Cellar under the house, and also four Cords of wood found her annually by my Executor, all without any charge to her, also Fifty pounds of Beef, 8 Bushells of Indian Corn and two Bushells of Rye, and Sauce Sufficient for her meat to be found by my Executor out of the produce of the place where she Lives

Item—I Give and Bequeath unto my beloved Grandson Robert Pratt his heirs & assigns, the one half of my homestead on which I now Live being the southermost part of said homestead, provided he discharges the Other half of my Just Debts, and the mortgage Deed be taken up which is given to James Humphrey Esqr.

Item—I Give & Bequeath unto my beloved Grandsons, Robert, Noah & Seth Jones Pratt the Other half of my homestead being the northerly part of my homestead before mentioned, to be equally divided between them, and I order the abovesaid Robert, Noah & Seth Jones Pratt to pay unto their Sister Molly Hearsey Ten pounds each of them their equal part of sd Sum in one year after my decease

Item—I Give and Bequeath unto my beloved Grandson Whitcomb Pratt the Ivory Cain that was my Fathers ~

Item—I Give and bequeath unto my beloved Grandson Robert Pratt my black walnut round table

Item—I Give and bequeath unto my beloved Grandson Seth Jones Pratt my Annotations

Item—I Give and bequeath unto my beloved Grand daughter Molly Hearsey the Bed, her Grand mother Lay upon, the Iron dish kettle and Brass kettle which I Look upon as her proportion out of my Estate

Item—I Give and bequeath unto my beloved Grand daughter, Lydia Pratt my Looking Glass and Case of Draws that was her Grand mothers ~

Item—I Give and bequeath the Remaining part of my Estate not heretofore mentioned to be equally divided among my Grand children — In Witness hereof I have hereunto Set my hand & Seal this Seventeenth day of February Anno Domini 1779 –

Signed, Sealed, Published and declared by                                                                    Nathll. Pratt                                       (seal)

the sd Nathaniel Pratt to be his Last will

and testament in Presence of ~

                Micah Stockbridge

                Daniel Bicknell

                David Jones

 

Presented for probate on 12 Aug. 1779 by Samuel Brown, who is appointed Administator cum testamento annexo, (no Executor being in said instrument named), and proved by Micah Stockbridge, Daniel Bicknell and David Jones, the witnesses. Letters of Administration cum testamento annexo were granted to Samuel Brown of Abington, Gentleman.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Nathaniel Pratt, late of Abington, was appraised on 3 Feb. 1780 by Thomas Wilks, David Jones, and Daniel Shaw, and totaled £599.10.10, including his real estate valued at £550. Saml. Brown, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 22 Mar. 1780.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 25, p. 354-356, from FHL microfilm #0550713.

 

 

Will of Nathaniel Pratt of Hanover, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1840) *

In the name of God, Amen, I Nathaniel Pratt of Hanover in the County of Plymouth, Yeoman, being of sound mind and memory do make this my last Will & Testament in manner and form following, to wit,

        I give & bequeath to my son Nathaniel O. Pratt one half of all my property after the payment of my just debts, funeral charges & all necessary expenses attending the settlement of the same. His share to be in the homestead including the buildings.

        I also give & bequeath to my daughters Harriet, Phebe S. Diantha, Adaline & Ruth S. the remainder of my property to be divided equally between them.

        Lastly, I do hereby constitute & appoint David Darling of Hanover Executor of this my last Will & Testament hereby revoking and disannulling all former Wills by me made.

        In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this Sixth day of January AD One thousand eight hundred & forty.

                                                                                                                                                Nathaniel Pratt                                (seal)

Signed, sealed, published & declared by the said Nathaniel Pratt to be his last Will & Testament in presence of us who have hereto subscribed our names as witnesses at his request & in his presence.

        Spooner Ellis

        John Little

        David J. Davis

 

Presented for probate on the third Monday of February 1840 by David Darling, the Executor, land proved by John Little and Daniel [sic] J. Davis, two of the witnesses.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Nathaniel Pratt, late of Hanover, was appraised by Micah Pool, Nathan Studly and Josiah Torry on 27 Feb. 1840, his real estate totaled $850, including the homestead valued at $650, and his personal estate totaled $308.87. David Darling, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on the first Tuesday of March 1840.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 82, pp. 30-31, 51-52, from FHL microfilm #0555266.

 

 

Will of Samuel Pratt Sr., of Middleborough, County of Plymouth, Province of Massachusetts Bay (1745)

Know All Men by these Presents that I Samuell Pratt Senr of the Town of Middleborough In the County of Plymouth in NewEngland being at this Time sick & Weak yet of A Sound & Disposing memory & understanding, Blessed be God for the same & being sensible of my own mortality & Knowing that it is Appointed for all men once to Die Do make & ordain this to be my last Will & Testament to Remain Firm & inviolable for Ever

Imprimis: I Give & Bequeath unto my son Phineas Pratt my Gun & sword, I haveing Already Given to my son Samuell Pratt & my son John Pratt Decd. Each of them A Gun & sword, & also I Give unto my son Phineas Pratt all my Wearing Appearel Also I Give & Bequeath unto my son Phineas Pratt his heirs & Assigns for Ever all my Tools & Utensils for Husbandry, Also I Give & Bequeath to my son Phineas Pratt his heirs & Assigns for Ever All my homestead, housing & Lands, as also two half Lots that Lye Adjoyning to Cadman Lot so Called, also I Give & Bequeath to my Son Phineas Pratt & Children or heirs of my Son John Pratt Late of Middleborough Deceased Equally to be Divided between him & them all that my spruse swamp Lying between titicut Great meadows & the Cowe[?], Item. I Give & Bequeath to my Eldest son Samuell Pratt to him his heirs & Assigns for Ever all my Lands in the Purchase Called the fourth Purchase in Middleborough, Item. I Give & Bequeath to my son Phineas Pratt & the heirs of my son John Pratt Late of Middleborough Decd. Equally to be Divided between him & them all my Right Title & interests in & unto any Land Lying & being in Dunstable, Notingham or Elsewhere in the County of Essex, Item, I Give & Bequeath to my two Daughters, viz. Sarah Barrow & Mary Washbourn Each of them A Cow, & my will is that my other stock of Creatures, with my In Door moveables be Equally Divided between my Children Namely, Samuell & the Children of my Son John Decd. Phineas, Sarah Barrow & mary Washbourn, & my Will is that my Son Samuell pratt & my son Phineas pratt should be the Executors of this my Last Will & Testament will be kept & performed According to the True intent & meaning thereof I Commit my Body to the Earth & my soul to God that Gave it, In Witness whereof I the sd. Samuell Pratt Senr. have hereunto set my hand & seal this 27th. Day of June Anno Domini 1745

Signed Sealed & Declared by the                                                                                                     his

sd Samuell Pratt senr. to be his                                                                                          Samuell  X  Pratt senr.         (seal)

Last will & Testament in                                                                                                                   Mark

Presence of us

John Tinkham

Barnabas Eaton

Benja. White

 

Proved by Benjn. White on 10 July 1745, and by Jno. Tinkham & Barnabas Eaton on 18 Sept. 1745. Letters of Administration granted to Samuel Pratt and Phineas Pratt, both of Middleborough, Joynt Executors, on 10 July 1745.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Samuel Pratt, late of Middleborough, was appraised by Samuel Warren, Elnathan Wood, and Nathl. Southworth on 19 July 1745, and totaled £1157.18.0 Old tenour, including his home farm with the buildings valued at £840. Phineas Pratt, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 18 Sept. 1745.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 9, p. 511-513, from FHL microfilm #0551533, and Vol. 10, p. 16.

 

 

Will and Codicil of Sarah Pratt of Middleborough, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1874) *

Know all Men by these presents that I, Sarah Pratt of Middleborough in Plymouth county and State of Massachusetts, considering the uncertainty of life, and being of sound mind and memory do make this my last will and testament.

I give, devise and bequeath my Estate and property as follows that is to say,

First. I give and bequeath to my husband Ebenezer Pratt the sum of one hundred dollars. Also one bed and bedding.

Second. I give, devise and bequeath to my two brothers Ichabod Wadsworth and Luke Wadsworth in equal shares all the land that I shall own at the time of my decease situated in Marshfield, and which came to me from my fathers estate.

Third. I give & bequeath to my sister Mary Wadsworth the sum of fifty dollars.

Fourth. I give & bequeath to Mary W. Shurtleff one china Set.

Fifth. I give & bequeath to my sister Ruth W. Chandler of Marshfield the sum of five dollars.

Sixth. I give, bequeath and devise to Mrs Eliza A. Shurtleff of Middleborough all the residue of my estate both real and personal.

        In witness whereof I have signed and sealed and published and declared this instrument as my last will at Middleborough on Saturday the seventh day of February in the year of our Lord eighteen hundred and seventy four.

                                                                                                                                                Sarah Pratt                        (seal)

                                                                                                                                                Ebenezer Pratt                  (seal)

  The said Sarah Pratt at Middleborough on said seventh day of February signed and sealed this instrument and published and declared the same as and for her last will. And we at her request and in her presence and in presence of each other, have hereunto written our names as subscribed witnesses.

                                                                                Augustus H. Soule

                                                                                Willis Shurtleff

                                                                                Obed H. Shaw

 

                                                                                Codicil

Know all men by these presents, That I, Sarah Pratt of Middleborough in the County of Plymouth and State of Massachusetts, being of sound mind and memory do make and declare this codicil. I hereby expressly confirm my former will dated February Seventh, eighteen hundred and seventy four excepting so far as the disposition of my property is changed by this codicil.

First.  It is my will that all my debts at my decease, the expenses of my last sickness, doctor’s bill, and funeral charges be paid out of my personal estate before any of the legacies named in my former will are paid.

Second. I hereby direct my executor to cause to be erected suitable Stones or monuments at my grave.

        In witness whereof I have signed, sealed, published and declared this instrument as a codicil to my aforenamed will at Middleborough this twenty seventh day of July in the year of our Lord eighteen hundred and seventy four.

                                                                                                                                                Sarah Pratt                        (seal)

And I Ebenezer Pratt her husband consenting to this codicil as I do to her former will sign my name at the same time and place.

                                                                                                                                                Ebenezer Pratt                  (seal)

The said Sarah Pratt on the twenty seventh day of July above named signed & sealed this instrument & published and declared the same a codicil to her last will. And we at her request and in her presence and in presence of each other have hereunto written our names as subscribed witnesses.

                                                                                Augustus H. Soule

                                                                                Elmer E. Gallagher

                                                                                Wm W. Atwood

 

John Chandler, of Marshfield, petitioned for the probate of the estate of Sarah Pratt, late of Middleborough, on the second Monday of July, 1875, there being no executor named in the will. John Chandler, of Marshfield, was granted administration with the will annexed of the estate of Sarah Pratt, late of Middleborough, on 12 July 1875, with Martin Kent and Luke Wadsworth, of Marshfield, as sureties.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 141, p. 424-426, from FHL microfilm #0556648, and Vol. 120, p. 98.

 

 

Will of Solomon Pratt of Bridgewater, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1757) *

                In the Name of God Amen., the twenty third day of July AD1757, I Solomon Pratt of Bridgwater in the County of Plimouth Tanner being of a Sound and Disposing mind, thanks to God for it, but calling to mind the mortality of my body & knowing that it is appointed unto all men once to die doe make and Ordain this my last Will and Testament; in the first place I give and Recommend my Soul into the Hands of the Great God, who Gave it Hoping thro’ the merritts of Christ to Obtain the pardin of all my Sins & inherit eternall life and my body I Committ to the earth to be Decently buried at the discretion of my Execr. hereafter named Trusting thro’ the power of Almighty God to receive the same again at the resurrection; and my worldly Estate I Give and Dispose of in the following Manner Viz, My Will is that all my Debts and Funerall Charges be paid in convenient time after my decease by my Execr.

                Item I give and Bequeath unto my beloved wife Sarah the Improvement of one half of my Dwelling House & Home Land Adjoyning; also the Improvement of one horse and one Cow while she shall continue my Wido. also the Improvemt. of the whole of My indore moveables during her Naturall life ~

Item I give and Bequeath unto my son Solomon his Heirs and Assigns forever my Homestead, Chattles, Buildings Lands, fences Orchard & tan yard and appurtenances, Also my Seven acres lying by Walkon Mitchell’s & John Harlow’s land; also my two Lots of Cedarswamp the one Lying in the old Swamp and the other in the Little Swamp, so called in said Bridgwater,

Item I give and Bequeath unto my son Ebenezer all my Lands in Middleborough which I bought of John Miller with the appurtenances thereof; to him his Heirs and assigns forever ~

Item, I give and Bequeath unto my son Isaac Ninty three pounds Six Shillings and Eight pence, to be paid to him by my Execr. in twelve months after my decease

Item I give and Bequeath unto my son Daniel, Ninty three pounds Six shillings & Eight pence, when he shall arrive to the Age of twenty One years, then to be paid by my Execr.

Item, I Give and Bequeath unto my four Daughters, Sarah, Abiel, Mary and Hannah, all my Indoore moveables, the Improvement of which I have herein given to my wife, to be equally Divided between them, after the decease of my said Wife, Further I Give & Bequeath unto my said Daughter Hannah the feather bed & furniture, Chist puter, & Linnen, one oval table and table Linnen & twelve Chairs, which things are Still in my House, and also two Spinning weels the One Great & the other Small, also I Give unto her ten pounds thirteen Shillings & four pence in Household Goods, which my Execr. must provide for her, within twelve months after my decease, ~

Item Further I give and Bequeath unto my son Solomon, besides what has been already mentioned, twelve Acres & three quarters of Land which I Lately Bout. of Ephraim Leach & Benjamin Sprague both of Bridgwater, to him his Heirs and assigns forever, I also Give unto My sons Solomon, Ebenezer, Isaac & Daniel my apparell equally to be divided between them. ~

Item, I Give unto my Son Solomon, the whole of my personall Estate including my Quick Stock Farming tools, Stock of Leather & Hides, Boards Nails, Book accounts, Cash and provision besides what shallbe Necessary for the familie’s use thro’ the year; also every thing whatsoever not before disposed of, and my said son Solomon I appoint sole Execr. Of this my Last Will and Testament,

Item I Give to my four sons and Daughters before mentioned my Books to be Divided between them after the decease of my wife

Signed Sealed, published, pronounced

and Declared, by the said Solomon Pratt                                                                        Solomon Pratt                   (seal)

to be his Last Will and Testament

before us the Subscribers~

Eleazer Carver

Benjamin Johnson

Simeon Leonard

 

Presented for probate on 1 Aug. 1757 by the Execr. therein named, and proved by Eleazer Carver and Simeon Leonard, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Solomon Pratt, of Bridgwater, Tanner, the Executor, on 1 Aug. 1757, with Eleazer Carver and John Johnson as sureties.

 

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 14, p. 359-361, from FHL microfilm #0551542.

 

 

Will of William Pratt of Middleborough, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1808) *

        In the Name of God amen I William Pratt of Middleborough in the County of Plymouth Gent. being weak in body but of a sound, disposing Mind & Memory & calling to Mind that it is appointed to all men once to die, do proceed to make & publish this my last Will & Testament in the following Manner, that is to say: In the first place it is my will that all my just debts should be paid in a convenient time after my decease, out of my personal Estate by my Executor hereafter named —

        I give and bequeath to my beloved Wife Mary Pratt one third part of my Dwelling house viz the lower Room in the southerly part of the House and such other parts of said House as she shall choose, to compleat said third part—two Feather Beds with their Furniture & a sufficiency of other Furniture or Household Goods to keep house, two Cows to be kept where it shall be most convenient for her, the charge & Expence of keeping them shall be equally divided among all my Sons except Enoch & Benjamin Pratt, I also give her my Clock for her use.~ Ten bushels of Indian Corn & three Bushels of Rye annually. – a sufficiency of Meat and Sauce—Also a sufficiency of Fire Wood cut off at the Door, for her use & benefit, the above supplies of provision & Firewood shall be made & provided by all my sons, Enoch and Benjamin excepted; I also give her the sum of five hundred Dollars & if the Interest of this sum with her other means of support & subsistence should be insufficient for her support, she shall have a right to make use of the principal in whole or in part, all the above Legacies, I give & bequeath to my said Wife so long as she shall continue my Widow ~

        Item I give and bequeath to my son Calvin Pratt his Heirs & assigns forever, one half of the upland & Meadow below the Mills, adjoining the River, which I bought of Isaac Shaw & James Boies – also a piece of Land I bought of Hosea Leach lying in Bridgwater– also my half of a piece of Land which was bought of Bezer Leach, in partnership with one of my Sons, lying in said Bridgwater, together with a piece of Cedar Swamp, in the westerly part of Raynham adjoining the Turnpike —

        Item I give and bequeath to my Son Isaac Pratt his Heirs & assigns forever, all the Lands which I bought of Zechariah Eddy, lying in Middleborough excepting what is herein after disposed of, being part of the Dean Farm so called. Also one half of an undivided piece of land lying in the Revd. Mr Craft’s parish, which I bought in Co. with my son last mentioned. Also one half of a piece of land situate in new-Freetown bought in Co. as aforesaid of David Bolton. And also the House & Barn standing on the said Dean Farm —

        Item I give and bequeath to my sons namely Greenleaf & Zebulon Pratt their Heirs and assigns forever, all my Homestead lying between the two Roads to wit that leading from my house to Titicut Bridge & the Road leading from the Dam at the Falls to & by Zephaniah Shaw’s (reserving & excepting the Buildings thereon standing, to be disposed of, as shall be herein after mentioned) I also give & bequeath to my two Sons last mentioned, to hold as aforesaid, my Meadow at Pachade (so called) which I bought of Robert Cushman & Edward Thomas – also a piece of Woodland I bought of John Fobes – also seven acres of woodland I bought of said Zechariah Eddy undivided between my son Isaac & myself, also my Cedar Swamp lying in Easton which I bought of Job Thing – also the other one half of the Land below the Mills bought of Shaw & Boies herein before mentioned excepting one acre of Land which I reserve for accommodating the Mills adjoining, to be deducted from the whole, to be equally divided between them, & further I give & bequeath to my son Greenleaf Pratt, to hold as aforesaid my Dwelling house (with the before mentioned reserve to my said Wife) my Barn near to sd. House – my Corne house & stable – Also my Horse called Dimon – my oldest Yoke of oxen, Waggon & Cart & one half of my farming Utensils & to my Son Zebulon Pratt & his Heirs, I give & bequeath my Barn on Fort Hill, so called.

        Item I give and bequeath to my Son Enoch Pratt the sum of seven hundred Dollars.

        Item I give & bequeath to my son Benjamin Pratt his Heirs & assigns forever my Eastern Lands containing two Lots lying in the County of Oxford which I bought of Job French & also two hundred Dollars —

        Item I give & bequeath to my son William Pratt & his Heirs forever all the Lands which I bought of Zechariah Eddy aforesaid lying in Bridgwater on the East and west side of the road leading from Titicut Bridge to Raynham with the Dwelling-house & barn thereon standing, also a piece of Land lying in Raynham, adjoining the Land belonging to the Heirs of Nathan Hall deceased which Polycarpus Edson gave to his son Charles containing sixteen acres, also my Cart & Wheels which I bought of David Pollard —

        Item I give and bequeath to my Daughter Sarah Keith the House & Land which formerly belonged to Solomon Beal, also two Cows & the Sum of two hundred Dollars to hold to her & her Heirs —

        The Morton Lot (so called) situate in Middleborough & all my other out Lands wheresoever lying not before disposed of I give & bequeath to my sons namely, Calvin, Isaac, Greenleaf & Zebulon Pratt their Heirs & Assigns forever to be equally divided between them —

        I give and bequeath all my Mills on Middleborough side of the River to my sons namely Isaac Greenleaf & Zebulon Pratt, with my half of the Dwelling house standing on the Mill Lot, to hold to them & to their Heirs & to be equally divided among them —

        With respect to my Son Calvin Pratt, it is my will that he should have an equal share of the Main Dam at the Falls with the rest of his Brothers who are interested in the Mills, & that each of them who are thus interested therein, shall contribute his proportional part ~ towards keeping the same in repair, to answer the purpose for which it was erected, & further it is my Will that each & every one of the owners on each side of the River, shall have an equal privilege in proportion to the right which he holds in sd. Mills, to the benefit of using the water, that no undue advantage may be taken, one of the other. —

        All my right & Title in & to the Mills on Bridgwater side of the River with the privileges thereunto belonging not before disposed of, I give & bequeath to my Son William Pratt to hold to him & his Heirs & assigns forever, he paying to his Mother the Sum of one hundred & fifty Dollars, one half of which sum to be paid in one year after my decease & the other half in two years after, without Interest. —

        I give and bequeath to my son Greenleaf Pratt in addition to what I have herein before given him the sum of two hundred Dollars out of the Securities, which I hold against him —

        I give to my Son Isaac Pratt besides what I have herein before given him the Sum of one hundred and fifty Dollars out of the Securities which I hold against him —

        The rest & residue of my personal Estate not before disposed of after their paying the sum of four hundred Dollars equally to my son Zebulon Pratt for building him a House shall be equally divided among all my Children, on whom I enjoin equally the Expence of an honourable support of my aged & honoured Mother during her natural Life—

        Lastly I constitute & appoint my sons namely Calvin & Greenleaf Pratt Execution of this my last will & Testament. In Witness whereof I the said William Pratt have hereunto set my hand & seal the twenty fourth day of May in the Year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred & eight —

Signed sealed published & declared by the sd.

William Pratt to be his last will & Testament                                                                William Pratt                     (seal)

in the presence of —

        Jonathan Crane

        Solomon Keith

        David Gurney

 

Presented for probate on 16 June 1808 by Calvin Pratt and Greenleaf Pratt, the Executors, and proved by Jonathan Crane Esqr. and Solomon Keith, two of the witnesses.

 

Solomon Keith, Avery Fobes, and Salmon Keith, all of Bridgewater, Gentlemen, were appointed to appraise the estate of William Pratt, late of Middleborough, Yeoman, on 16 June 1808.

The Inventory of the Estate of Capt. William Pratt, late of Middleborough, dated 15 May 1809, totaled $18,410.99, including his homestead farm with the buildings valued at $6611, the Mills, half in Middleborough and half in Bridgewater was valued at $1983, the Zechariah Eddy farm valued at $2500, the Petrade Meadow valued at $450, one half of the Dean farm valued at $800, the Solomon Beals farm valued at $500, the Morton lot valued at $360, and several other parcels of land, as well as $3303.17 in securities. Calvin Pratt, one of the Executors, gave his oath to the inventory on 17 May 1809.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 42, pp. 306-309, 466, from FHL microfilm #0550902.

 

 

Will of William Pratt of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1847) *

                In the name of God Amen, I William Pratt of Bridgewater in the County of Plymouth and commonwealth of Massachusetts being of sound and disposing mind and memory do make this my last Will and Testament

        I commit my soul to God the author of it and my body to the earth to be decently buried at the discretion of my Executors hereinafter mentioned. As to my worldly estate I hereby dispose of the same in the following manner.

First. I give and bequeath to my beloved wife Polly all my household furniture and one cow which ever she may choose of those of which I may die seized. Also the use and improvement during her natural life of the following described real Estate to wit, Beginning at the northeasterly corner of my dwelling thence northerly by the wall to the corner by the road leading from Titicut Bridge to Tanton, thence westerly by said Tanton road to the northerly end of a stone wall about 15 or 20 rods southeasterly of Zadock Leachs house thence southerly in said wall untill it comes to the southernmost gap in said wall where there are two lengths of port and rail fence and from thence running easterly to the Northermost row of appletrees in my orchard southerly of the Barn and in said row to the second appletree therein and from thence easterly to northwest corner of my dwelling house and thence southerly by the house to the bound first mentioned. Also the south room on the lower floor and south chamber in my dwelling house and the bedroom adjoining to each of them; one third of the cellar and the right at all times to pass to and from said rooms and to and from the cellar and also to and from my well for water togather with a right to do or have her washing and baking done in the kitchen and what room she may need in the woodhouse and wood yard for depositing wood &c Also one third of my barn the northerly part thereof and also of my barn yard and right to water at the barn well and privelege of passing to and from the same likewise the right to pasture a cow in my millpond pasture on the northerly side of the Taunton road annually

Secondly, I give and devise to my son Anthony S Pratt about six acres of my homestead lands to be the same more or less bounded as follows viz. Beginning at the northerly end of the stone wall above mentioned, thence westerly by the said Taunton road about 35 or 40 rods to a swamp white oak tree on the west side of a pondhole by the road thence running southerly across said homestead lands to a stake and stones by the bend of the river at the old shipyard thence upstream by the river to the second brook, thence northerly by said brook to the southerly end of the wall aforesaid and thence in said wall and fence to the road aforesaid. Also my lot of Cedar swamp in Titicut swamp which I bought of Peleg Leach.

Thirdly I give and devise to my son Albert G. Pratt about 14 acres of my homestead lands to be the same more or less bounded as follows viz. on the northerly part by Taunton road aforesaid on the west by land of Salmon Keith and Philo Leonard on the southerly part by the river and on the easterly side by the above described westerly line of the tract which I have given to my son Anthony S. Pratt

Fourthly. I give and devise to my three sons Albert G. Pratt William Pratt, and Anthony S. Pratt in equal shares my wood lot in Raynham on the condition that from time to time and at all times during the natural life of my wife Polly (their mother) they shall furnish her with a good supply of firewood in her dooryard cut and fitted for her fire without expence or trouble to her.

Fifthly I give and devise to my daughters, Mary K Alden the wife of Charles H. Alden Cassadana Washburn the wife of Seth Washburn and Betsey B. Perkins wife of Daniel Perkins in equal shares the tract of land which I bought of Capt Abram Washburn and which lies adjoining to my Mill pond pasture lot.

Sixthly. I give and devise to my daughters Jane W. Pratt and Maria L. Pratt each one hundred and fifty dollars in six months from the day of my decease to be paid to them by my son William Pratt. I also give to them the said Jane W. and Maria L. after the decease of my wife and so long as they shall remain single and unmarried the same rights and privileges in the dwilling house cellar and woodhouse yard and well that I have givin to my wife during her natural life, Also all the apples that may annually grow on the four southerly trees in the two rows back of my house with the right to pass to and from said trees to gather the fruit

Seventhly. I give and devise to my son William Pratt all the rest residue and remainder of my homestead lands and buildings and rights therein not herein before disposed of and also the reversion of the real Estate the use whereof is herein before given to my wife during her natural life and to my daughters Jane W. Pratt and Maria L Pratt during their unmarried state whenever their legal rights thereto shall cease to exist

Eighthly I give and devise to my sons William Pratt and Anthony S. Pratt in Equal shares my Mill pond pasture lot which lies adjoining to the northerly side of the Taunton road aforesaid

Finally. I hereby appoint my sons Albert G. Pratt and William Pratt to be executors of this my last will and testament hereby revoking all former wills by me made and declaring this and this only to be my last will and Testament

        In witness whereof I hereunto set my hand this sixth day of February in the year of our Lord one thousand Eight hundred and forty seven

                                                                                                                                                William Pratt                                     (seal)

        Signed published pronounced and declared by the said William Pratt to be his last Will and Testament in presence of the subscribers who in his presence and at his request and in presence of each other hereunto set our hands as witnesses

                Zebulon K Pratt

                Z. Pratt

                P.C. Pratt

                Isaac Fobes

 

Presented for probate on the third Monday of Feb. 1849 by Albert G. Pratt and William Pratt, the Executors therein named, and proved by Zebulon K. Pratt and Isaac Fobes, two of the witnesses whose names are subscribed thereto. Letters Testamentary were granted to Albert G. Pratt and William Pratt, the Executors.

 

Albert G. Pratt was appointed as Executor of the last Will and Testament of William Pratt, late of Bridgewater, on 19 Feb. 1849, with Isaac Fobes and Zebulon K. Pratt as sureties.

Isaac Fobes and Zephaniah Keith, of Bridgewater, and Solomon White, of Middleborough, were appointed to appraise the estate of William Pratt, late of Bridgewater, on 6 Jan. 1849.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of William Pratt, late of Bridgewater, was appraised by Isaac Fobes, Zephaniah Keith and Solomon White, but not dated, his personal estate totaled $374.74, but his real estate was not listed. Albert G. Pratt, Executor of the last will and testament of William Pratt, late of Bridgewater, gave his oath to the inventory on the third Monday of Feb. 1849, and he made application to sell the personal estate of the deceased.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 91, p. 50-55, from FHL microfilm #0555640, and Vol. 2H, p. 182.

 

 

Will of Benjamin Price of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1791) *

        In the Name of God amen, I Benjamin Price of Bridgwater in the County of Plymouth Joiner being of sound Mind & Memory but realizing the Uncertainty of Life do make this my last Will and Testament. And first of all calling to mind the important Events of Fraturity, I do humbly through the Merits of a Redeemer recommend my soul to the Mercies of God who gave it and my Body to the Earth from whence it was taken to be buried with decent Christian Burial.—And with respect to my Estate both real & personal Which I enjoy through the Blessing of God, I order my Executor in the first place to pay all my just debts and funeral Charges, after which I dispose of the remainder in manner following viz

1st. I give and bequeath unto my beloved Wife Mehitabel Price such part of my Estate as the Law has provided for Widow’s of Intestate, provided she survives me, to enjoy the same, as the Law respecting Widow’s of Intestates has provided ~~~

        2d. I give and bequeath to my Son Benjamin Price junr. all my Estate both real and personal excepting such part as may be set off to my Widow as her right of Dower and it is hereby intended that my said Son Benjamin shall have the remainder & Reversion of that part of my real Estate which may be set off to my Widow – and provided my Wife does not survive me I give and bequeath all my Estate to my said Son Benjamin without any exception as above mentioned – Provided in each of the above mentioned Cases my said Son Benjamin shall be held & obliged to pay all the Legacies mentioned in this my last Will and Testament —

        3.  I give and bequeath unto my Daughters Mary Price & Susanna Price Twenty Pounds of which Ten pounds shall vest in & be paid to my said Daughter Mary and ten pounds shall vest in and be paid to my Daughter Susanna and in case either of both should not survive me the provision herein made for her that is deceased shall become ~~ a lapsed Legacy —

        4th. I give and bequeath unto my Daughters Silence Palmer Wife of Benjamin Palmer, Sarah Colwell Wife of Ebenezer Colwell, Hannah Pool Wife of John Pool, Betty Soper Wife of Nathaniel Soper and Lydia Parris Wife of Benjamin Parris five shillings each together with what they have already received

        5th. It shall be at the Election of my Executor to pay one half of the Legacies above mentioned in Household Furniture or the whole in Cash —

        6. I do hereby constitute and appoint my Son Benjamin Price junr. Sole Executor to this my last will & Testament ratifying & confirming this to be my Last Will and Testament & disallowing all other Wills heretofore by me made. In Testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand & Seal this Sixteenth day of June in the Year of our Lord one thousand & seven hundred & Ninety one.

signed, sealed & declared to be his last Will

and Testament in presence of

        Nathan Hayward

        Beza Hayward                                                                                                             Benjamin Price                (seal)

        Abigail Hayward

 

Presented for probate on 5 June 1805 by Benjamin Price, the Executor therein named, and proved by Beza Hayward Esqr., one of the witnesses, Nathan Hayward and Abigail Hayward being since deceased.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 40, p. 230-231, from FHL microfilm #0550901.

 

 

Will of Kimball Prince of Kingston, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1791) *

        In the Name of God amen the second day of June Anno Domini 1791 I Kimbal Prince of Kingston in the County of Plymouth in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts yeoman being weak in Body but of a sound & disposing Mind & Memory & being desirous to set my House in order before I go hence, do make & ordain this my Last Will & Testament, & first I commend my Soul to God that gave it, & my Body to the Earth to be decently buried according to the discretion of my Executors hereafter named hoping for a joyful Resurrection through the Merits of Jesus Christ my Redeemer; and as touching my outward Estate, wherewith it hath pleased God to bless me with in this Life, I dispose of the same as follows —   viz —

                Imprimis I give & bequeath to my well beloved Wife Deborah Prince the Improvement of all my Real & personal so long as she shall remain my Widow. —

                Item I give & bequeath to my Sons Christopher Prince, Kimball Prince & Hezekiah Prince, & my Daughters Sarah Bradford wife of Perez Bradford, Ruth Fuller wife of Jesse Fuller & Deborah Washburn Wife of Elisha Washburn & their Heirs & assigns, all my personal Estate after the aforesaid time is expired to be equally divided between them. —

                Item I give & bequeath to my Son John Prince & his Heirs & his assigns all my Real Estate also my Pews in Kingston Meeting house, & my Will is, that my Son John pay to my two Sons Noah Prince & Job Prince, and their Heirs & assigns forty Pounds after the Expiration of the aforesaid time to be equally divided between them, and also my Will is that my Son John Prince pay all my just debts & funeral Charges. —

                Lastly I do constitute & appoint my well beloved Wife Deborah Prince & my Son John Prince, Executors of this my last Will & Testament, revoking all other Will & Testament by me formerly made, & do ordain this, & this only, to be my last Will and Testament. In Testimony whereof, I the said Kimball Prince, do hereunto set my hand and Seal the day & Year before mentioned — signed sealed and pronounced and declared by the said Kimball Prince to be his

last Will & Testament in presence of us

                John Faunce                                                                                                         Kimball Prince                 (seal)

                Eliezer Faunce

                Elijah Faunce

 

Presented for probate on 2 May 1814 by John Prince, one of the executors therein named, Deborah Prince the other Executor having refused said Trust, and proved by John Faunce Esqr. and Eliezer Faunce, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to John Prince, the before named Executor.

To the Hon Joshua Thomas Esqr. Judge of Probate for the County of Plymouth –

The Subscriber having been appointed one of the Executors, in the last Will & Testament of Kimball Prince late of Kingston in said County Yeoman deceased, hereby informs your Honour of her refusal to execute said Trust.—

        Kingston May 2d. 1814.~~                                                                                        Deborah Prince   –

 

John Faunce Esqr., Ebenezer Cushman and Jehiel Washburn yeomen, all of Kingston, were appointed to appraise the estate of Kimball Prince, late of Kingston, yeoman, on 2 May 1814. The Inventory of the Estate of Mr Kimbal Prince, late of Kingston, totaled $1677.47, including his homestead farm lying in Kingston and Plympton valued at $1200. John Prince, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 4 July 1814.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 45, pp. 351-352, 422-423, from FHL microfilm #0550903.

 

 

Will of Benjamin Prior of Duxbury, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1763) *

                                                In the Name of God, Amen.

Upon the third day of February in the year of our Lord one thousand, seven hundred & sixtythree, I Benjamin Prior of Duxborough in the county of Plimouth in the province of the Massachusetts-Bay in New:England Tanner, being under some decays of nature but of perfect mind & memory, thanks be given unto God for the same, and therefore calling to mind the mortality of my body, & knowing that it is appointed for all men once to die, do make & ordain this to be my last will & testament. That is to say.

Principally, & first of all, I give & recommend my soul into the hands of God that gave it, & my body I recommend to the earth to be buried in a decent christian manner at the discretion of my executors hereinafter-named; nothing doubting but at the great & general resurrection I shall receive the same again by the almighty power of God, And as touching such worldly goods & temporal estate wherewith it hath pleased God to bless me in this life with I give demise & dispose of the same in the following manner & form. ~

Imprimis. My will is that all my just debts & funeral charges be defrayd, & paid out of my estate. ~

Item. I do give & bequeath to my dear & welbeloved wife Deborah Prior one third part of all my personal estate, with the improvement of all my salt meadow, with one third part of my dwelling house with the privilege of cutting her fire-wood off of my land so long as she remains my widdow or lives in my dwelling house. ~

Item. I do give & bequeath unto my eldest son Eliphas Prior all my two tracts or parcels of pine land, being by estimation eleven acres lying between his dwelling-house & the land of John Chandler, & my lot of land that I bought of Edward Tinkham lying in Kingston being by estimation about forty acres, his heirs & assigns forever. But nevertheless my will is that my said son Eliphas Prior shall pay to my two daughters Rebeccah Prior & Lois Prior each of them thirteen pounds, six shillings & eight pence a piece lawful money to each of them, their heirs & assigns forever. ~

But if in case that my said son Eliphas Prior shall not see fit, nor think good, nor proper for himself to pay to my two sd. daughters Rebeccah & Lois that said thirteen pounds, six shillings & eight pence a piece, that then the my will is that my two sd. daughters Rebeccah Prior & Lois Prior shall have the one half of these two aforesd. tracts or parcels of land their heirs & assigns forever.~

Item. I give & bequeath unto my three sons Eliphaz Prior, Benjamin Prior & Joseph Prior all my salt meadow equally between ‘em, their heirs & assigns forever.

Item. I do give unto my two sons Benjamin Prior & Joseph Prior all the residue or remainder of my lands with the housing, buildings, fences & orchards thereon equally between them their heirs and assigns forever. And my will is, that my two sons Benjamin & Joseph, the sum of three pounds a Year, that they shall pay their mother for the use of the old farm. ~

Item. I do give and bequeath unto my daughter Eunice Lowden the sum of six pounds, thirteen shillings & four pence. ~

Item. I do give & bequeath unto my two daughters Rebeccah Prior & Lois Prior two thirds of my houshold goods of what is commonly used in my house, equally between them & their heirs & assigns forever. ~

Item. I give & bequeath unto my daughter in law the wido. Abigail Prior the sum of Six Shillgs.

Item. I do give & bequeath unto my two grandaughters Abigail Prior & Deborah Prior twenty shillings a piece.

Item. I do give & bequeath unto my three sons Eliphas Prior, Benjamin Prior & Joseph Prior all the residue or remainder of my personal estate equally between them their heirs & assigns forever. ~

Item. I do hereby appoint & constitute my trusty & welbeloved sons Eliphas Prior & Benjamin Prior the sole executors of this my last will & testament & I do hereby utterly disallow revoke & disanul all & every other & former wills, testament & bequests & executors by me, in any ways before namd, willed, & bequested, ratifying & confirming this & no other to be my last will & testament. In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand & seal the day & year above written.

                                                                                                                                                Benjamin Prior                (seal)

Signed, sealed, published, pronounced & declared by the sd. Benjamin Prior to be his last will & testament in the presence of us the subsrs.

Salumith Wadsworth, Sarah Wadsworth, John Wadsworth

 

Presented for probate on 2 Feb. 1767 by Eliphas Prior and Benjamin Prior, the Executors therein named, and proved by John Wadsworth, Salumith Wadsworth, and Sarah Wadsworth, the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Eliphaz Prior and Benjamin Prior, the Executors.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of mr. Benjamin Prior late of Duxborough, was appraised by Israel Sylvester, Peleg Wadsworth, and Wait Wadsworth on 27 Mar. 1767, and totaled £974.17.6¾, including his homestead farm, buildings and tan yard valued at £400, his woodland in Duxborough valued at £96, and his salt meadow valued at £180. Eliphaz Prior and Benjamin Prior, the Executors, gave their oath to the inventory on 5 Aug. 1771.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 19, p. 419-420, from FHL microfilm #0550711, and Vol. 21, p. 10.

 

 

Will of Anna Ramsdell of Pembroke, Plymouth County, Massachusetts Bay (1785) *

In the name of God Amen. I Anna Ramsdell of Pembroke in the County of Plymouth & Comonwealth of Massachusetts, weaver, being of a sound mind & memory, do make & ordain this my last will & testament, as for my body, I recommend to a christian burial, and my soul to God that gave it, and as for my estate, I give as followeth

Imprimis. I Give unto my Cousin Sarah Hanks, a feather bed which stands in my kitchin, together with the bedstead & all the furniture thereunto belonging

Item. I Give unto my daughter Content Whitman all the rest of my estate, both real & personal of all kinds, together with what she carried from my house when she moved away, which said Goods I have a bill of Sale of; and my will is that my said daughter have the sole privilege of disposing of all & every part of my estate after my decease, to whom she pleases (excepting the bed I have given to my cousin Sarah Hanks) I say, to her & to her heirs or to whom she may give it forever, I say, all my estate of all denominations whatsoever and I do appoint Benjamin Parris of Halifax to be sole Executor to this my last will & testament. In witness whereof, I do hereunto Set my hand & Seal, this tenth day of June A D.1785

Signed Sealed & declared by the sd

Anna Ramsdell, to be her last will                                                                                    Anna Ramsdell                 (seal)

& testament in presence of us

                Stephen Richardson

                Benjamin Darling

                Mercy Damman

 

Presented for probate on 2 Oct. 1797 by Benjamin Parris, the Executor therein named, and proved by Benjamin Darling and Mercy Damman, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Benjamin Parris.

 

Levi Everson, John Oldham and Elijah Whitman, all of Pembroke, yeomen, were appointed to appraise the estate of Anna Ramsdell, late of Pembroke, widow, on 2 Oct. 1797. The Inventory of the Estate of Anna Ramsdell, late of Pembroke, totaled $644.76.3, including her real estate valued at $450. Benja. Parris, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 6 Nov. 1797.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 36, pp. 240-241, 254, from FHL microfilm #0550719.

 

 

Will of Samuel Ramsden of Pembroke, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1759) *

In The Name of God Amen. I Samuel Ramsden of Pembroke in the County of Plimouth Yeoman being of perfect Mind & remembrance Praised be God do make & ordain this My last Will & Testamt. in Manner & form following first of all I give my Soul into the Hands of God my Maker hoping that thro: the Meritorious Death of Jesus Christ my only Saviour & redeemer to receive free Pardon of all my sins & my Body to be buried in Christian Burial at the Discression of my Execr.

Item I give & Bequeath to Anne my Wife two Heifers & all my sheep & a Cow Bell & all my Rye & Corn & allso all my Wool & flax & a pr of Irons Dogs & all my houshold goods wch she had before I was married to her

Item I give and Bequeath to My Son Samuel Ramsden my Great Coat. Item I give & & Bequeath to my Grandaughter Mercy Hersey my Feather Bed & the furniture that now belongs to it. Item I give & Bequeath unto my Grandson Samuel Ramsden my Powder horn Cartherage Box & Cut lash. Item I give & Bequeath to my Grandaughter Betty Crooker my Great Iron Pot & my Trammel & all my Pewter Ware & all other my Goods & Effects of all Denomination after my Just debts & funeral Charges are pd.

Item I give & Bequeath to my two Daughters Mary Crooker & Susanna Hersey to be Equaly divided between them I say all my Goods & Moveable Effects to them all that is not mentd. in this my last will & Testament & I do make Daniel Crooker Sole Excr. of this my last will & Testament & I do hereby utterly disallow revoke & disanul all & Every other former Testamts. wills & Bequests & Exer by me in any ways before namd. ratifying & Confirming this & no other to be my last will & Testament In Testimony whereof Ive hereunto Set my Hand & Seal the 21st. day of augst. AD 1759—

Signed Sealed & Published pronounced

& declard. by the sd. Saml. Ramsden to be                                                                      Samuel Ramsden                             (seal)

his last will & Testamt. in Prescence

of us the Subscribers

                                Thomas Parris

                                William Cocks

                                Benja. Parris

 

Presented for probate on 3 Dec. 1759 by the Executor, and proved by Thos. Parris, Wm. Cocks, and Benja. Parris, the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Daniel Crooker of Pembroke, Yeoman, the Executor, on 3 Dec. 1759.

 

The Inventory of the estate of Samuel Ramsden, of Pembroke, was appraised on 5 Dec. 1759 by Josiah Cushing and David Darling, and totaled only £55.11.4, no real estate. Daniel Crooker, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 4 Feb. 1760.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 15, pp. 451-451, 440, from FHL microfilm #0551543.

 

 

Will of Rev. William Rand of Kingston, Plymouth County, Massachusetts Bay (1778) *

                                In the Name of God Amen ~

        I, William Rand of Kingston in the county of Plymouth in the State of the Massachusetts Bay in New England, minister of the Gospel, having through the Goodness of God arrived to old age, and having sound mind and memory, do ordain this as my Last will and testament—I trust I need not give particular order concerning my funeral, expecting that the kind people of Kingston will afford me a decent burial—and as to the Estate which Providence has bestowed upon me I bequeath it in the following manner

Imprimis—To my Grandson William Rand, upon the conditions and Limitations hereafter mentioned, I Give my dwelling house and Barn and Cyder mill with other Buildings upon the place with 30 or 40 acres of Land adjoining be it more or Less, contained in the Lines following vizt, beginning at the Bridge, running upon the road to the upper corner of the field, near to a place called Dukes hole, and from a Stake at the corner of the fence to run in a Streight Line northwardly to the north west corner of said field and to continue the Line Streight to the River, and then to run down by the River to the Bridge, the first mentioned bound ~

        The Rest of my Land in Kingston, vizt the upper part of my Farm or homestead, I Give to my daughter Miss Mary Turner, also I Give to her all my household furniture and utensills

        And it is my will that when my Grandson William aforesd shall arrive at the age of 21 years, he shall pay to his Sister Lucy out of what I here bequeath to him the full and Just sum of Sixty pounds Sterling or an equivilant to that sum in the currency of that time

        I Give my Books to my daughter Turner, and my two Orphan Grand children William and Lucy Rand, Let them be divided into 3 equal parts and be assigned to Miss Mary Turner, to William Rand and to Lucy Rand by Lot

        And it is my will that what I have done for my Orphan Grand children Lucy & William for Board, Cloathing, be shall not be charged to them by my Executor ~

        And what I have bequeathed to them Lucy and William, I Give them upon this condition, that they shall not trouble or molest my Executor under pretence of any Error, mistake or Omission in me as Executor to their Father’s will

        And I desire my Son in Law Mr. Charles Turner now of Scituate to be Executor of this my will, and to be Guardian to my Grandson William Rand ~

        And I bequeath to my executor my Lands in Sunderland, vizt. one Lot at a place called hatchet brook containing 30 Acres, and a Lot in the Sequestred miles—and what other Estate shall be found not mentioned above, after my debts are paid, I bequeath to Miss Mary Turner and my two Orphan Grand children, to be equally divided between them – and it is my will that if my Grandson William aforesaid should die before he shall come to the age of 21 years, that then what I have bequeathed to him shall be divided equally between Miss Turner and Lucy Rand

        In witness of this testament I hereunto set my hand and affix my Seal this third day of February anno Domini 1778

In the presence of                                                                                                                William Rand                                    (seal)

Nathaniel Gilbert

Samuel Gilbert

Hannah Gilbert

 

        17th. October 1778 having now perused the within written will, I do approve and confirm the same with this explanation, that whereas I have Since the Date of sd. will sold to Mr. Nathl. Gilbert a small house plot upon which he has already erected a dwelling house; therefore the first Line in describing the Land which I bequeathed to my Grandson Willm. Rand must be considered as excluding sd house plot

                And then what is mentioned in my will as bequeathed conditionally to Lucy and William Rand, is to refer only to boarding, cloathing, &c as mentioned in the sentence immediately foregoing – and it is my will that my grandson William Rand aforesaid should have my wearing apparell—In witness whereof I set my hand the day of the date above

  In presence of                                                                                                                    William Rand  ~

  Nathaniel Gilbert

  Hannah Gilbert

 

Presented for probate on 5 April 1779 by Charles Turner, the Executor therein named, and proved by Nathaniel Gilbert and Samuel Gilbert, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to the Revd. Charles Turner, the before named Executor.

 

The Inventory of the Real and Personal Estate of the Revd. Mr. William Rand, late of Kingston, was appraised on 22 Apr. 1779 by John Gray, Robert Bradford and Ebenr. Washburn, and totaled £3032.11.5, including his homestead land and buildings valued at £1933.6.8, and 2 lots of land at Sunderland containing in both 50 acres valued at £100. John Gray, Robert Bradford and Ebenezer Washburn gave their oath to the inventory on 22 Apr. 1779, and Revd. Charles Turner, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 11 May 1779.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 25, p. 251-254, from FHL microfilm #0550713.

 

 

Will of Benjamin Randall of Scituate, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1756) *

In the Name of God Amen the 30th of June A.D. 1756. I Benja. Randall of Scituate in the county of Plimo. in N.E. Gent. being in good health & of sound mind & memory thanks be given to God for it & calling to mind the mortality of my body & knowing it is appointed unto man once to die do therefore make & ordain this my last will & Testament. first I recomend my Soul to God that gave it & my body to a decent burial at the discretion of my Exx. hereafternamd. & as touching such worldly Estate as it hath pleasd. God to bless me with in this Life I give & dispose of the same in manner & form following.—

Imprimis. I give to my well beloved wife Sarah Randall her heirs & assigns forever my Lot of land lying in Scituate near where Ann Dwelly livd. which I purchd. of Thos. Briant Esqr. since decd. also I give her the use & improvemt. of one third part of my Real Estate during the whole term of her natural life & also the improvemt. of my Real Estate I hereafter give in this my will to my Sons Paul Wm. & Daniel till they arrive to the age of twenty one Years each of them to have their part when they arrive to that age also I give her the whole of my moveable & personal estate within doors & without upon Condition she Pays all my Just debts & my funeral Charges & the Legacies given in this my Will.

Item I give to my two Sons Benja. Randall & Ezra Randall the Sum of five shill. each of them, they having already recd. the rest of their portions out of my Estate.

Item I give to my Son Isaiah Randall his heirs & Assigns forever nine acres & an half of Salt meadow land lying in Marshfield in the county aforesd. on the south side of John Littles Island which I purchasd. of my father in Law Tobias Oakman since decd. also I give him fifty pounds lawfl. money to be pd. him in one Year after my decease.

Item. I give to my daughter Sarah Briant the Sum of five shillgs. she having Already received the rest of her portion out of my Estate. ~

Item. I give to my daughter Huldah Randall the sum of sixtysix pounds thirteen shillg. & four pence to be paid her out of my personal Estate at the value thereof in lawfll. money

Item. I give to my daughter Eliza. Randall the Sum of sixtysix pounds thirteen shillg. & four pence lawfull money at the value thereof in personal Estate. ~

Item. I give & bequeath to my Sons Paul Randal William Randall & Daniel Randall their heirs & assigns forever my pew in the Southerly meeting house In Scituate, and also all the rest of my Estate wheresoever lying or being to be equally divided amongst them excepting the improvement given to my wife as aforesaid & in case any or either of them dye before they arrive to the Age of twenty one Years & have no Issue then the estate to belong to the other of them surviving & I give it to them accordingly. –

Lastly I do hereby nominate & appoint my said wife Sarah Randall to be Excecutrix of this my last Will & Testament. In Witness whereof I,ve hereunto set my hand & Seal the day & Year first above written. –

Signed Sealed published & declared by                                                                          Benjamin Randall            (seal)

the said Benjamin Randall to be his

last Will & Testament in Prescence of us,

Caleb Torrey, Thomas Hyland, & William Hyland. ~

 

Presented for probate on 23 Mar. 1764 by Sarah Randall, widdow, the Executrix therein named, and proved by Thomas Hyland and William Hyland, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Sarah Randall, the Executrix.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 19, p. 17-18, from FHL microfilm #0550711.

 

 

Will of Ephraim Randall of Pembroke, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1799) *

        In the name of God Amen. This fourth day of September, Seventeen hundred & ninety nine.—I Ephraim Randall of Pembroke in the county of Plymouth yeoman, being under indisposition of body, but of sound mind & memory thanks be given to God for the same, and calling to mind the mortality of my body, and knowing it is appointed for all men once to die, make and ordain this my last will & testament, and touching such worldly estate as it hath pleased God to bless me with in this life, I Give and dispose of the same in manner & form following ~

        Imprimis, and First of all, I Give up & recommend my soul into the hands of God that gave it, and my body to the earth, to be buried in a Christianlike manner, at the discretion of my Executor hereafter named –

        Item.—I Give & bequeath to my well beloved wife Mercy Randall, the use & improvement of all my homestead farm, whereon I now dwell, laying in Pembroke, land & buildings, so long as she remains my widow, excepting the improvement of my wood land, I give to her a right to cut for fencing, repairs & one fire only; I also give to my wife, one yoke of oxen, three Cows, ten sheep, one horse, one Chaise, one cart & wheels, one large plow & one horse plow & one chain & horse tackling, all my Silver, Peuter, Brass, Iron & earthen, all my green chairs, all my spinning wheels, all my tables, half dozen kitchen chairs & Desk; I also give my wife all my beds & furniture except one with furniture, she my said wife bringing up my children to good common education, and giving trades to my two sons, Ephraim & Elisha by putting them at the Carpenters trade at Sixteen years of age, the above articles of personal estate, I give free & clear to my said wife forever.

        Item.—I Give and bequeath to my Daughter Mercy Randall my best bed & furniture, to be delivered by my Executors at the age eighteen or marriage.

        Item—I Give and bequeath to my two sons, Ephraim & Elisha, all my Real Estate, laying in Pembroke, to be equally divided, between them and come into possession of the same at the time my said wife shall cease to be my widow, to them, their & assigns forever—and it is my mind and will, that if either of my sons Ephraim or Elisha, die before coming into possession of what I have given them in this will, the surviving son shall have the whole—I further order my Executor to sell my land at gravelly beach, for the payment of my debts—all the remainder & residue of my personal estate, I order sold for the payment of my debts, funeral charges &c.

I furthermore, constitute & appoint my wife Mercy Randall & my brother in law Elisha Phillips joint Executors to this my last will & testament—In witness whereof, I have hereunto Set my hand & seal, the Day and year above written and declare this my last will and testament –

        In Presence of

        Betsey Hatch                                                                                                                Ephraim Randall             (seal)

        John Hatch

        John Turner

 

Presented for probate on 2 Dec. 1799 by Mercy Randall & Elisha Phillips, the Executors therein named, and proved by John Hatch & John Turner Esqr, two of the witnesses.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 37, p. 166-167, from FHL microfilm #0550719.

 

 

Will of David Ransom of Carver, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1798) *

In the Name of God Amen. – David Ransom of the town of Carver & County of Plymouth, yeoman, being sensible of the mortality of my body, but now of perfect & disposing memory, thanks be given to almighty God for the same; after calling to mind, the mortality of my body, knowing that it is appointed for all men once to die, do make & ordain this my last will & testament.-

        Imprimis. – I will and bequeath my Soul to God that gave it me, & my body, to the dust to be decently buried, at the discretion of my Executor hereafter named, nothing doubting but at the general resurrection, I shall recieve the same by the mighty power of God –

        Item – I will & bequeath to my loving wife Content Ransom, the whole of the improvement of all my estate, both real & personal, so long as she remains my widow, and no longer, but in case she shall marry again, my will is, she shall have my best bed & furniture & warming pan & Eight Pounds in money, to be paid her by my loving Son Joseph Ransom, at the day of her marriage, to be her own forever, to be paid in money equal to silver money at six shillings & eight pence per ounce –

        Item – I will & bequeath to my loving son Joseph Ransom, all my Real Estate, containing all my lands, meadow & Swamp, wherever it may be found, and all my buildings thereon—I further give to my said Son all my farming utensills, & all my wearing apparell, & my half Pew in the meeting house, always provided that he my said son pay all my just debts & funeral charges, and such legacies, as I have, or shall appoint him in this will to pay, he, his heirs, Executors or administrators, all the abovesaid Real & Personal Estate I do give to my said son, to him & his heirs & assigns forever.—

        Item – I will & bequeath to my loving daughter Lois Ransom, two thirds of all my moveable estate, excepting my farming utensills and what I have already given to my loving wife Content Ransom – the abovesaid moveable estate, I give to my said daughter Lois Ransom, to her, her heirs & assigns forever—I further give to my said daughter the bed room in the north east end of the house, to her own command, and the privilege of a fire, so long as she remains unmarried, and no longer.–

        Item – I will & bequeath to the children of my daughter Abigail Ripley the wife of Thaddeus Ripley, the one third part of all my indoor moveables, excepting what I have given to my loving wife Content Ransom, and also, one third of my neat Cattle, the abovesaid moveable estate, I give to the children of my daughter Abigail Ripley, to them, their heirs & assigns forever, to be equally divided amongst them –

        Lastly – I Do nominate and appoint my loving son Joseph Ransom, to be the Sole Executor of this my last will & testament, hereby revoking all other & former wills, either written or verbal, by me heretofore made, hereby ratifying & confirming this my last will to remain firm and abiding.— In Testimony whereof, I the abovesaid David Ransom, have hereunto Set my hand and Seal, this twenty first day of November, and in the year of our Lord, one thousand, Seven Hundred ninety & eight.~

Signed, Sealed, Pronounced and                                                                                      David Ransom                  (seal)

Declared by the said David Ransom

to be his last will & testament, in

presence of –

                Samuel Lucas

                Lois Lucas

                Jemima Lucas

 

Presented for probate on 18 Nov. 1801 by Joseph Ransom, the Executor, and proved by Samuel Lucas and Lois Lucas, two of the witnesses. Barnabas Cobb, Gentleman, and Samuel Lucas, Yeoman, both of Carver, were the sureties on the bond of Joseph Ransom.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 38, p. 1, from FHL microfilm #0550720.

 

 

Will of Ebenezer Redding of Middleborough, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1751) *

In the Name of God Amen I Ebenezer Redding of Middleborough In The County of Plimouth In New-England being Sick and Weak of Body but of a Sound and Disposing mind memory and understanding blessed be God Therefor Calling To mind The Mortallity of my Body and Knowing That It is appointed for all men once To Dye Do make and ordain This To be my Last Will and Testement To Stand firm and Remain Inviolable for Ever – Principaly and first of all I give and Recomend My Sole Into The hands of God That Gave It and My Body I Recomend unto The Dust To be Buried in Decent Christian burial at The Discrition of My Executor nothing Doubting but at The General Resurrection I Shall Receive The Same again and as Touching Such Worldly Estate Wherewith It hath pleasd God To Bless Me in this Life With I Do Dispose of The Same In the following Manner and form – Imprimas – I Give and bequeath unto My True and Well Beloved Wife Joanna Redding all The Household Goods That is yet to Be found of Them She Brought To me When She Came To Me To Be at her Disposal for Ever I also Give her one of my fier Rooms BeLow and Roome In The Chamber To Set her Warping Bars, and one Third part of the Room In ye. Sellor and one Third part of ye. Roome in My Barn and one Third part of The Improvement of My Farm and So much of My Honseal[?] Stuff Besides What I Gave her for Ever as she Stands In Need of for her Comfortable Keeping house So Long as She Shall Remain My Widow and I allso order My Two Sons William and Thomas to find her one Cow So Long as She is My Widow –

I Give and Bequeath unto My Two Sons William Redding and Thomas Redding all My Land With The Buildings and fences There on Equally to be Divided the Length Ways of The Lot according To Quantyty and quallety – Item – I Give and Bequeath unto My Son Ebenezer Redding The Sum of Two pounds Thirteen Shillings and four pence Lawfull Money To be paid Him In Two Years after my Decease by My Two Sons William and Thomas. Item. I Give and Bequeath unto My Son Moses Redding The Sum of Two pounds Thirteen Shillings and four pence Lawfull Money to be paid him In Two Years after My Decease by My Two Sons William and Thomas - Item - I Give and Bequeath unto My Daughter Mercy Hatch The Sum of Two pounds Lawfull Money To Be paid her Two Years after My Decease by My Two Sons William and Thomas - Item - I Give and Bequeath unto My Daughter Merget Cain The Sum of Two pounds Lawfull Money To be paid Two Years after My Decease by My two Sons William & Thomas - Item - I Give and Bequeath unto My Daughter Deborah Williamson The Sum of Two pounds Lawfull Money To be paid her Two Years after My Decease by My Two Sons William and Thomas: Item - I Give and Bequeath unto My Daughter Leddia Core The Sum of Two pounds Lawfull money To Be paid her Two Years after My Decease by My Two Sons William and Thomas Item - I Give and Bequeath unto The heirs of My Daughter hannah White Deceast The Sum of two Shillings and Eight pence Lawfull Money To be paid Them Two Years after My Decease by My Two Sons William and Thomas . . Item - I Give and Bequeath unto My Grand Daughter Silence Redding The Sum of Two Shillings and Eight pence Lawfull Money To be paid her Two Years after My Decease by My Two Sons William and Thomas - Item - I Give and Bequeath unto My Grand Son David White The Sum of Two Shillings and Eight pence Lawfill Mooney To be paid him Two Years after My Decease by My Two Sons William and Thomas - Item - I Give and Bequeath all My Moveable Estate Within Doors and Without unto My Two Sons William and Thomas Besides What I Disposed of To My Wife and the Said Movables To Be at the Disposal of my Executor until he hath paid My Just Debts and funarel Charges With What he Can Call in that is Due To me and then What Remannts Equaly To be Divided Between William and Thomas – Finelly I Constitute My Son Thomas Redding To be Executor of this My Last Will & Testament hereby Confirming this & no other to be my Will as Witness My Hand and Seal The Twenty Nineth Day of Aprail anno Domini: 1751

                                                                                                                                                Ebenezer Redding                           (seal)

Signed Seald & Declared by Ebenezer Redding to be his Last Will and Testement in presents of us

Noah Thomas

Peter Tinkham

Ephraim Wood

 

Probated on 3 June 1751, and proved by Peter Tinkham and Ephraim Wood, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Thomas Reding of Middleborough, the Executor, on 3 June 1751.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Ebenezer Redding late of Middleborough, was appraised on 12 June 1751 by Ephraim Wood, Joseph Tinkham, and William Cushman, his real estate valued at £100, and his personal estate valued at £45.13.4. Thomas Reding, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 10 July 1751.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 12, pp. 183-185, 274, from FHL microfilm #0551539.

 

 

Will of Ebenezer Reed of Abington, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1790) *

In the Name of God Amen – I Ebenezer Reed of Abington in the County of Plymouth and Commonwealth of Massachusetts Bay Gentleman being of sound and disposing mind (praised be God) do make this my Last will and testament, as follows viz~ –

I Give to my three Children David & Barnabas Reed & Abigail Dyer, all my Right in a Saw mill known by the name of Tirrell’s mill in equal Shares

Item – I Give to my two sons David & Barnabas Reed all my wearing apparell in equal halves

I Give to three Children of my Son Jonathan Reed deceased six shillings each

I Give to my Son David Reed a State of three pounds seven shillings, Likewise two thirds of all my other notes of hand

The other third of my Notes, together with all my Houshold furniture at Mr. Jacob Dyer’s, I Give to my Daughter Abigail Dyer – my will is that my debts and funeral Charges shall be paid out of my Notes of hand

I Constitute Capt. Luke Bicknell of the town and County aforesaid sole Executor of this my Last will and testament – In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this fourteenth day of April in the year of our Lord One thousand seven hundred and Ninety – NB the interlineation above was made prior to the signing & sealing of this will and testament ~

Sealed published & declared by the above

named Ebenezer Reed for and as his                                                                               Ebenezer Reed                                  (seal)

Last will & testament in presence of

                Joseph Pool

                John Norton

                Seth Porter

 

Presented for probate on 3 April [sic] 1790 by Luke Bicknell, the Executor therein named, and proved by Joseph Pool and Seth Porter, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Luke Bicknell, the before named Executor. [The probate must have been on 3 May 1790, the same day the appraisers were appointed.]

 

Joseph Pool and Seth Porter, yeomen, and John Norton, trader, all of Abington, were appointed to appraise the estate of Ebenezer Reed, late of Abington, Gentleman, on 3 May 1790. The Inventory. Dated 26 May 1790, totaled £106.11.6, his real estate valued at only £3.12. Luke Bicknell, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 20 May 1790, and the appraisers gave their oath to the inventory on 19 Aug. 1790.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 31, pp. 181-185, 255-256, from FHL microfilm #0550716.

 

 

Will of Rev. John Reed of West Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1822) *

In the name of God Amen. I John Reed of West Bridgewater in the County of Plymouth, Minister of the Gospel being of sound disposing mind and memory Do make ordain and Establish this my last Will and Testament in manner following VIZ. Imprimis, I give and bequeath unto my five children John Reed, Daniel Reed, Hannah Copeland, Caleb Reed and Sampson Reed and to the children of my Deceased Son Solomon Reed my Library to be Equally Divided between them the children of my Deceased Son having one Share or sixth part of the same.  Item– I give and bequeath unto my Son Daniel Reed my Real Estate at home, and a lot of Swamp containing Fourteen Acres more or less also a lot of Ceder Swamp in the Gore so Called containing one Acre more or less, Reserving and Excepting the East Part of my Dwelling house. VIZ the East front Room and two Chambers over the Same together with a Right in the back Room or kitchen with the Buttery adjoining the same, with a Privalidge to go around the Same with a Privalidge to Bake, get Water and lay Wood in the yard and what ever may be necessary to improve and use the Part of the house reserved as aforesaid. And I give all my Real Estate Excepting the Reservation above mentioned to my Son Daniel Reed all my Personal Estate saving and Excepting my Furniture and Sermons and manuscripts. It is my understanding and intention that my Son Daniel Reed pay all my just Debts out of the Property I have given him –   I hereby appoint my Son Daniel Reed sole Executor of this my last Will and Testament. In witness of all and Each of the things herein contained I have hereunto set my hand and Seal this Seventeenth day of July – the year of our Lord One thousand Eight hundred and Twenty Two.

                                                                                                                                                John Reed                          (seal)

Signed Sealed and Declared by the Said John Reed to be his last will and Testament in

Presence of us who in the Presence of the Testator and of Each other have hereunto Subscribed

our names as Witnesses

Abrier Alger

Abrier Alger Jr.

Cornelia Alger

 

Probated on 5 April 1831, and proved by Abrier Alger Jr., one of the witnesses, Abrier Alger is since deceased. Letters of administration granted to Daniel Reed of West Bridgewater, yeoman.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 70, p. 103-105, from FHL microfilm #0555260, the name “Abrier” Alger appears as “Abiezer” Alger in the published vital records of West Bridgewater.

 

 

Guardianship and Will of Simeon Rhoads of Sharon, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1825, 1827) *

From the Probate Docket Index:

Aug. 16, 1825 the Selectmen of the town of Sharon petitioned that Simeon Rhoads of Sharon be assigned a guardian, and he was put into the care of Benjamin Reynolds of Sharon, Esq.

April 1, 1828 the Will of Simeon Rhoades of Sharon was filed, and continued to May court. (Nothing was recorded in the court probate books.)

May 6, 1828 the Will of Simeon Rhoads of Sharon was recorded, witnesses were examined, and the will was disallowed.

June 3, 1828 David Morse petitioned for administration of the estate of Simeon Rhoads of Sharon, and administration was granted.

Dec. 2, 1828 the Inventory of the estate of Simeon Rhoads of Sharon was filed, and affidavit of David Morse, administrator.

Jan. 4, 1831 the Account of David Morse, administrator of the estate of Simeon Rhoads was filed, and allowed, and the estate was ordered distributed.

 

Norfolk County Probate, Vol. 46, p. 31-32: Guardianship of Simeon Rhoads

        To all People to whom these Presents shall come

SS. Edward H. Robbins Esquire, Judge of the Probate of Wills &c. in the County of Norfolk within the Commonwealth of Massachusetts                     Sendeth Greeting.

        Whereas it hath been made to appear to me, on [smeared]tation of the Selectmen of the town of Sharon, made to me as the Law directs that Simeon Rhoads of said town of Sharon is a person of mental infirmity as described in a [smeared] of this Commonwealth; Therefore Know ye, That I the said judge, trusting in the care and fidelity of Benjamin Reynolds of Sharon aforesaid Esquire, have and by these Presents do (pursuant to the power and authority to me granted in and by an act of Law of the said Commonwealth, entitled, “An act empowering the Judges of Probate to appoint Guardians to Minors & others”) assign and appoint the said Benjamin Reynolds to be Guardian of the said Simeon Rhoads hereby directing and empowering him in said capacity, to take care as well of the person as estate, both real and personal, of the said Simeon Rhoads, and to make a just and true Inventory of the said Estate, to be exhibited into the Register’s office of Probate for the County aforesaid. And the said Guardian shall improve frugally, and without waste and destruction the estate aforementioned, and apply the annual profits and incomes thereof for the comfortable maintenance and support of the said Simeon Rhoads and also of his household or family (if any such he have) And the said Guardian is hereby empowered to settle accounts, receive, and (if need be) sue for, and recover all such Debts as are due to the said Simeon Rhoads from any person or persons whomsoever, and to manage, improve, divide, and take care of his real estate in as full and ample a manner, as he would or might do were he not under any legal disability. And the said Guardian shall also pay all such debts as are owing from the said Simeon Rhoads out of his personal estate: or in case that be not sufficient, then out of his real estate (being first empowered to make sale thereof, or of such part thereof as shall be sufficient for that end, by the Supreme Judicial Court, upon application to them made therefore) and he shall render a plain and true account of his guardianship, when and so often as he shall be thereunto lawfully required, And in case the said Simeon Rhoads should be restored to the use of his powers, he shall return and deliver the residue and remainder of his estate, real and personal unto him, or in case of his death, to his heirs, executors or administrators.

        In Testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and seal of office this sixteenth day of August in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and twenty five.

Samuel Haven Regr.                                                                                                            Edward H. Robbins Judge of Probate

 

Norfolk County Probate, Vol. 51, p. 239-241: Will of Simeon Rhoads

        In the Name of God Amen, I Simeon Rhoads of Sharon in the County of Norfolk & Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Yeoman, being through the blessing of God of sound mind and disposing memory for which I am thankful, but being convinced of the uncertainty of this Life I do make & declare this my last Will and Testament.

First. My Soul I commend to God who gave it hoping to receive mercy and happiness according to his great mercy and goodness—I commit my body to dust to be interred by my Executor hereafter named.

        As to my estate I dispose of it as follows viz.

Item 1. My Just debts and funeral expenses I would have paid by my Executor hereafter named out of my personal estate.

Item 2d. To my Daughter Jemima Clap I give and bequeath one Dollar, which together with what I have before given her is in full for her portion of my estate.

Item 3d. To my Daughter Lucinda Smith I give and bequeath One Dollar, which together with what I have before given her is in full for her portion of my Estate.

Item 4. To Mr. Ellis Morse the son of my Daughter Sybil now deceased I give and bequeath One Dollar, which is to be in full for such share and as he might be entitled to as son of my Daughter or as being heir to my estate.

Item 5. To Mrs Fanny Rhoads the widow of my last son Nathaniel Rhoads I give & bequeath the sum of five dollars.

Item 6. To my two grand daughters Fanny Melaney Rhoads and Lucinda Ann Rhoads & both daughters to my late son Nathaniel I give to each the sum of fifteen dollars each.

Item 7. The residue of my property and estate whether real or personal I give and bequeath to be equally divided between my other grand children by my son Nathaniel Rhoads viz. Nathaniel Addison Rhoads, Lewis Sabin Rhoads, William Bishop Rhoads and James Albert Rhoads, to each an equal Division.

Item 8. And I do constitute and appoint David Morse of Walpole in said County of Norfolk to be my sole Executor to this my last Will and Testament and I do utterly revoke disannul and make void all former Wills and bequests, declaring this and no other to be my last Will & Testament—In witness whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and seal this nineteenth day of June, in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and twenty seven.                                    his

                                                                                                                                                                  Simeon  X  Rhoads    (seal)

                                                                                                                                                                                mark

Signed, sealed, published and declared by the Testator to be his last Will & Testament in presence of us.

Jeremiah Draper,   Elijah Thompson,   Abner Fairbanks

 

Norfolk Ss. Probate Court at Dedham May 6, 1828

        Having heard the Testimony to establish this Will by examination of the subscribing Witnesses thereto and other Testimony to the Competency of the Testator Simeon Rhoads to make and execute the same, the same being objected to for that cause, I do decree a refusal to approve the same.                              Edward H. Robbins J. Probate

 

Norfolk County Probate Vol. 51, p. 356-357: Appointment of Administrator

Commonwealth of Massachusetts

        SS. By the Honourable Edward H. Robbins Esquire, Judge of the Probate of Wills, and for granting Letters of Administration in the estate of Persons deceased, having goods, chattels, rights or credits in the County of Norfolk, within the Commonwealth aforesaid.

        To David Morse of Walpole in the County and Commonwealth aforesaid, Esquire, Greeting.

        Whereas Simeon Rhoads, late of Sharon in the said County, Yeoman deceased, having while he lived, and at the time of his decease, goods, chattels, rights and credits in the County aforesaid, lately died, intestate, whereby the power of committing administration, and full disposition of all and singular the goods, chattels, rights and credits of the said deceased, and also the hearing, examining and allowing the account of such administration, doth appertain unto Me,—Trusting, therefore, in your care and fidelity, I do by these Presents, commit unto you full power to administer all and singular the goods, chattels, rights and credits of the said deceased, and well and faithfully to dispose of the same according to law: and also to ask, gather, levy, recover and receive all and whatsoever credits of the said deceased, which to him, while he lived, and at the time of his death, did appertain and to pay all debts in which the said deceased stood bound, so far as his goods, chattels, rights and credits can extend, according to the value thereof: and to make a true and perfect inventory of all and singular the goods, chattels, rights and credits: and to exhibit the same into the Registry of the Court of Probate for the County aforesaid, at or before the third day of September next ensuing, and to render a plain and ture account of your said administration upon oath, at or before the third day of June, which will be in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and twenty nine,

        And I do hereby ordain, constitute and appoint you Administrator of all and singular the goods, chattels, rights and credits aforesaid.

        In Testimony, whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and the seal of the said Court of Probate. —Dated at Dedham the third day of June, in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and twenty eight.                                                                              Edward H. Robbins Judge of Probate

Samuel Haven Regr.

 

Norfolk Ss. In Probate Court, at Dedham within and for the same County of Norfolk, on Tuesday the third day of June 1828, Ordered, that David Morse Administrator of the estate of Simeon Rhoads late of Sharon deceased, advertise, notifications of his being administrator as aforesaid, by posting the same up in some public place at Sharon, in said County, and by publishing it in the Village Register, printed in Dedham within three months. Given under my hand the third day of June in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and twenty eight.                                                                                                                                       Edward H. Robbins, Judge of Probate

 

Norfolk County Probate Vol. 52, p. 199-200: Inventory of Simeon Rhoads

Norfolk Ss. To Mrssrs David Andrews & Lewis Morse both of Dedham, and Samuel G. Fuller of Sharon, all in the County of Norfolk                                  Greeting.

        You are hereby appointed a Committee to appraise (on oath) all the Estate of Simeon Rhoads, late of Sharon aforesaid, Yeoman, deceased, and make return of your Doings, together with this Warrant, into the Registry office of the Court of Probate, in and for said County. Given under my hand, this third day of June A.D. 1828.

Samuel Haven Regr.                                                                                                           Edward H. Robbins J. Probate

Norfolk Ss. Dedham June 4, 1828. Then personally appeared the within named David Andrews and Lewis Morse and made oath that they would faithfully perform the duties assigned them by this Commission according to their best skill and judgement before me,         Enos Foord Just of Peace

Norfolk Ss. December 2. Then personally appeared the within named Samuel G. Fuller & made solemn oath that he would faithfully & impartially perform the duties assigned him by this warrant, to the best of his Judgement & abilities before me,                                      Jeremiah Draper Justice of the Peace

        An Inventory of the estate of Simeon Rhoads late of Sharon in the County of Norfolk, deceased, intestate appraised upon oath, by the Subscribers duly appointed by the Hon. Judge of Probate for the County of Norfolk, viz.  Personal viz.

                                Wearing apparel                                      $3.50

                                1 Bed                                                           6.00

                                1 Chest                                                        1.00

                                1 Brass Kettle                                             0.75

                                Cash                                                             1.11

David Morse’s note date March 1, 1828                         328.60

Sharon Decr. 2, 1828                                                          $340.96

                                                                David Andrews

                                                                Lewis Morse                         } Appraisers

                                                                Samuel G. Fuller

Norfolk Ss. Probate Court at Dedham December 2, 1828.

        The foregoing Inventory having been duly exhibited on oath I hereby accept the same.              Edward H. Robbins J. Probate

        I David Morse Morse [sic] testify and declare that I have caused notification of my being Administrator of the estate of Simeon Rhoads, late of Sharon deceased, to be posted as some public places in Sharon aforesaid; And also gave further notice thereof by causing the same to be published in the Village Register printed in Dedham within three months from the time of my taking upon myself the trust aforesaid, according to order: And the following is a copy of the original notifications published as aforesaid.         David Morse

        Norfolk Ss. At a Probate Court at Dedham within the same County of Norfolk, on the second day of December A.D. 1828, Personally appeared David Morse afore named, and made solemn oath to the truth of the foregoing affidavit, by him subscribed, before me                              Edward H. Robbins Judge of Probate

        At the same Court Ordered, That the foregoing affidavit be filed, and recorded.                           Edward H. Robbins Judge Prob.

        Notice is hereby given, that the subscriber has been duly appointed administrator of the estate of Simeon Rhoads, late of Sharon, in the County of Norfolk, Yeoman, deceased; and has taken upon himself that trust, by giving bonds, as the law directs. And all persons having demands upon the estate of the said deceased are required to exhibit the same, and all persons indebted to the said estate, are called upon to make payments to David Morse Admin.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Norfolk County Probate, Vol.46, p. 31-32; Vol.51, pp. 239-241, 356-357, and Vol. 52, p. 199-200, from FHL microfilm #1509414 (Docket Index), #0843593 (Guardianship), and #0843595 (Will, Administration and Inventory.)

 

 

Will of Benjamin Richards of Bridgewater, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1740/41) *

In the Name of God Amen the twenty fourth day of January Anno Domini 1740/41 I Benjamen Richards of Bridgwater in the County of Plymouth in New England being Weak in body but of perfect mind & Memory Thanks be to god therefor Calling to mind ye mortallity of my body do make & ordain this My Last Will and Testament in ye following manner first I give my Soul into Hands of God, & my body I commit to ye Earth to be decently buried at ye discretion of My Executor hereafter named, and as touching my worldly Estate I dispose thereof as followeth My just debts funerall Charges and other Expenses being first allowed. —

Impri. I Give to my Son Joseph Rickards to him his Heirs & Assigns forever (besides what I formerly gave him) Six acres of Land at Pecked point Swamp, and allso a fourty acre Lott of land in Brantrey in a place Called Covlate Obligeing him to pay to my son Daniel Rickards the sum of Twenty pounds. —

Item, I give To My son Daniel Rickards to him His heirs & Assigns forever the fifty Acres of Land which I bought of Hannah Bradford joyning to Abiel Packard, and allso two Acres of Meadow land at Snells meadow and allso ye sum of Twenty pounds to be paid to him by my Executor hereafter named.

Item I give to My two sons John Rickards and Josiah Rickards to to them theire Heirs and Assigns forever all my Homestead land and Buildings Reserveing to my Wife the improvement of one half thereof dureing the time of her Widowhood —

Item I give to my son Ezra Richards to him his Heirs and assigns forever a lott of Land in Quabin numbered fourty One which I bought of David Nevins allso another lott in sd Quabin which I bought of ye Committe of ye Narragansett Township Numbered Seventy Eight together with all my undivided Rights belonging to said Lotts —

Item I Give to My Daughter Mehetable Packard ye wife of David Packard the sum of fifty pounds with what she hath recd. allready.

Item I Give to my Daughter Sarah Packard ye wife of William Packard the sum of Fifty pounds with what She hath Recd. already.

Item I Give To my Daughter Lydia Richards the sum of Fifty pounds when She shall Come to Eighteen years of age. —

Item I give to my Daughter Hannah Richards the sum of Fifty pounds when she shall Come to Eighteen years of age

Furthermore I Give to My four daughters above named all my houshold goods or indoore moveables to be Equally divided amongst them after ye Decease of my wife or at the marriage if She Shall Marry Again.

Item I Give to my Well beloved Wife Lydia Richards (whom allso I Constitute and appoint to be the Sole Executrix of this My last Will and Testament The improvement of my buildings and the improvement of One half of my improved land in My homestead for her Support dureing the time of her widdowhood, And furthermore I Give unto My sd wife all my personall Estate without Doors and allso my money, Bonds Notes, & Book debts, Onely Obligeing her to pay Out ye Severall Legacies or sums before mentioned

Signed Seald pronounced                                                                                                  Benjamin Richards                         (seal)

and Declared by the said

Benjamin Rickards to be

his Last Will & Testament

in the presence of us.

Joseph Edson

John Edson

David Edson

 

Proved on 20 May 1741 by Joseph Edson, John Edson and David Edson, the witnesses.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 8, p. 373-374, from FHL microfilm #0551531. The surname was spelled both Richards and Rickards in different places in the will.

 

 

Will of Daniel Richards of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1789) *

In the name of God Amen, The fourth day of March in the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and eighty nine – I Daniel Richards of Bridgwater in the County of Plymouth, yeoman, being sick and weak in body, but of perfect mind and memory, thanks be Given to God, therefore calling unto mind the mortality of the body, and knowing that it is appointed for all men once to die do make and ordain this my Last will and testament, that is to say, principally and first of all, I Give and Recommend my soul into the hands of God that Gave it, and my body I Recommend to the earth to be buried in a decent manner at the discretion of my Executors, nothing doubting but at the Resurrection I shall recieve the same again by the mighty power of God, and as touching such worldly estate wherewith it hath pleased God to bless me in this Life, I Give, Demise & dispose of the same in the following manner and form.

Imprimis – I Give to my well beloved wife Mary Richards all my Indoor moveables, except my wearing Apparell

Item – I Give unto my trusty friend Isaac Brett, whom I constitute and appoint Executor of this my Last will and testament, all my farming tools & wearing apparell, with all my Live stock, whether it be neat Cattle Horses, Sheep or Swine (except one Cow and two sheep) which I may own at the time of my decease, also all the monies and Securities for money, and also all and every other Estate (whether it be Real or Personal or mixed) that I may die seized of, that is not dispose of in this will

Item – I Give unto Abigail Brett, one Cow and two Sheep

   and I do hereby utterly disallow all and every other former Testaments, wills, Legacies and bequests and Executors by me in any ways before named, willed, and bequeathed, Ratifying and confirming this and no other to be my Last will and testament–In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal the day and year above mentioned –

Signed Sealed, Published, pronounced and

declared by the said Daniel Richards as his

Last will & testament in presence of us the                                                                    Daniel Richards                               (seal)

Subscribers

                Sarah Dunbar

                Olive Drake

                Daniel Howard 2d

 

Presented for probate on 3 Aug. 1789 by Isaac Brett, the Executor therein named, and proved by Olive Drake, and on the first day of June Last Daniel Howard ye. 2d, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Isaac Brett, the before named executor.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 31, p. 24-25, from FHL microfilm #0550716.

 

 

Will of Rev. Abel Richmond of Halifax, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1843) *

In the name of God Amen I Abel Richmond of of Halifax in the County of Plymouth being in a feeble state of health but of sound mind and memory blessed be Almighty God for the same do make and constitute this my last Will and testament in manner and form following that is to say after the payment of my just Debts and Funeral charges I give and devise to my dearly beloved son Abel Richmond jur all all my Real Estate.

I give and bequeath to my dearly beloved wife the sum of Four hundred Dollars or so much of it as she shall think necessary for her comfortable support if after her decease a balance of said sum should remain my will and pleasure is that it be equally divided among my children Abel, Maria Ruth S and Louisa.

I give and bequeath to my two Daughters Ruth S. and Mariah all my money in the saving Bank in Plymouth in equal shares. I also give and bequeath to my said wife the use of all my household Furniture during her natural life and after her decease to be equally divided between my said Son Abel and my Daughters Ruth S. & Mariah in equal shares, I further give to my said wife my chaise and Sleigh. I further give and bequeath to my said Son Abel Richmond whom I constitute and appoint Executor of this my last Will and Testament all my Neat Stock Horse and Farming utensils all the rest of my Estate not before disposed of I give to my said Son Abel and my Daughters Ruth S. and Mariah in equal shares.

In testimony whereof I the said Abel Richmond have hereunto set my hand and seal this seventeenth day of April in the year of our Lord eighteen hundred & Forty three

                                                                                                                                                         his

                                                                                                                                                Abel  X  Richmond                             (seal)

                                                                                                                                                        Mark

Signed Sealed published & declared by the above named Abel Richmond to be his last Will and testament in the presence of us who at his request & in his presence have hereunto subscribed our names as witnesses –

                                                                                                                                                Obadiah Lyon

                                                                                                                                                George Drew

                                                                                                                                                Hannah Fuller

 

We the subscribers children of Revd. Abel Richmond late of Halifax deceased, have been duly notified by our brother Abel Richmond Executor named in the last will and Testament of our honoured Father that he should present said Will for Probate at a Probate Court to be held in Middleborough on the last Tuesday of May instant, and are satisfied that the same be proved at that time, the widow of the deceased also concurs in the same

                                                                                                                                                Ruth Richmond

Halifax May 22d 1843                                                                                                       Ruth S. Richmond

Hon. Wilkes Wood Esq                                                                                                      Marcia Richmond

Judge of Probate                                                                                                                  Louisa R. Morton

 

Presented for probate on the last Tuesday of May 1843 by Abel Richmond, the Executor therein named, and proved by Obadiah Lyon and George Drew, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters Testamentary were granted to Abel Richmond, the Executor therein named.

 

Abel Richmond, of Halifax, was granted Letters Testamentary on the estate of Abel Richmond, late of Halifax, Clerk, on 30 May 1843, with Obadiah Lyon and George Drew, both of Halifax, as sureties.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 85, p. 339-341, from FHL microfilm #0555268, and Vol. 1G, p. 243.

 

 

Will of Abigail Richmond of Middleborough, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1816) *

  In the name of God amen. I Abigail Richmond of Middleborough in the County of Plymouth & Commonwealth of Massachusetts being now of a sound Mind but considering the Shortness of Life, think proper to make & establish this following as my last Will & Testament for concerning my remains & such Goods & Estate & Effects as I may die seized & possessed of –

        Imprimis I order & direct that my Body be decently interred after the Manner of a Christian Burial, at the Discretion of my Executor hereafter named —

        Item I give and bequeath to Stephen Cornish my Nephew all my real Estate, which I bought of Joseph Richmond in connexion with my Brother, Sisters and Stephen Cornish, it being undivided. —

        Item I give to said Cornish all my personal Estate & moveable property he paying all my just debts & Funeral Charges, & I do hereby nominate & appoint my sd. Nephew Stephen Cornish the Executor of this my last Will & Testament, hereby revoking & annulling all former Wills & Bequests —  In Witness of all which I hereunto put my hand & Seal this eighth day of October in the Year Eighteen hundred & sixteen.

Signed Sealed published & declared in presence

of us the Subscribers as the last Will & Testament

of the above named Testator & we do in presence

of her & each other hereto subscribe our Names.                                                         Abigail Richmond                            (seal)

attest      Joseph Richmond

                Joseph Richmond Junr.

                Benjamin Richmond.

 

Presented for probate on 11 Nov. 1816 by Stephen Cornish, the Executor therein named, and proved by Joseph Richmond, Joseph Richmond Junr. and Benjamin Richmond, the witnesses. Letters of Administration on the estate of Abigail Richmond, late of Middleborough, Singlewoman, were granted to Stephen Cornish, the before named executor.

No inventory of her estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 48, p. 228-229, from FHL microfilm #0550905.

 

 

Will of Andrew Richmond of Halifax, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1844) *

Be it remembered that I, Andrew Richmond of Halifax, in the County of Plymouth and Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Yeoman, do on this Seventh day of May in the Year of our Lord, One thousand eight hundred and forty four, make and publish this my last Will and Testament, in the manner following, Viz.

First.  My Will is that all my just debts and funeral charges be paid out of my Estate.

Second. I give and bequeath unto my beloved Wife Susanna Richmond, the improvement of all my Estate both Real and Personal during her natural life.

Thirdly. I give and bequeath unto Andrew Richmond my Son all my Wearing Apparel.

Fourth.  I give and bequeath unto John Waterman my Grand Son – Five Dollars.

Fifthly.   After all my debts & the above bequests are paid,

                I do give and bequeath unto Cyrus Richmond my Son, Two Thirds of all that remains of my Estate.

Sixth.     The other remaining third part

                I give and bequeath to Susanna Soule my Daughter the Wife of Jabez Soule and Lydia L. Holmes the wife of Thomas Holms to be equally divided between the said Susanna and Lydia.

Lastly. I do appoint Cyrus Richmond and Andrew Richmond my Sons, Sole Executors of this my last Will and Testament, hereby revoking all former Wills by me made.

In Testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my Hand and Seal this day and year above written.

  Signed, sealed and published by the said Andrew Richmond, declaring this to be his last Will and Testament, in presence of us, who at his request, were called as Witnesses to the same, and in his presence did hereunto Subscribe our name.

                                                                                                                                                Andrew Richmond                           (seal)

                Reuben Sylvester

                Darius Holmes

                Joseph Sylvester

 

Presented for probate on the first Tuesday of Oct. 1845 by Cyrus Richmond and Andrew Richmond, the Executors therein named, and proved by Reuben Sylvester and Joseph Sylvester, two of the Witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters Testamentary were granted to Andrew Richmond and Cyrus Richmond, the Executors therein named.

 

Cyrus Richmond and Andrew Richmond, of Halifax, were granted Letters Testamentary on the Estate of Andrew Richmond, late of Halifax, yeoman, on 7 Oct. 1845, with Zadock Thompson and Reuben Sylvester, both of Halifax, as sureties.

Zadock Thompson, William Sears and Joseph Silvester, all of Halifax, were appointed to appraise the Estate of Andrew Richmond, late of Halifax, on 7 Oct. 1845.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Andrew Richmond, late of Halifax, was dated 16 Jan. 1846, his real estate totaled $1167.90, including his homestead with the buildings standing thereon valued at $1025.90, and his personal estate totaled $207.39. Andrew Richmond, one of the Executors, gave his oath to the inventory on the third Monday of Jan. 1846, and Cyrus Richmond and Andrew Richmond, the Executors, were directed to sell the personal estate of the deceased on 19 Jan. 1846.

 

Cyrus Richmond, of Halifax, petitioned for a division of the Real Estate of Andrew Richmond, late of Halifax, into two undivided third parts for himself, and the remaining third part for Susannah Soule, wife of Jabez Soule, and Lydia L. Holmes, wife of Thomas Holmes, all of Halifax. Jabez P. Thompson and Zadock Thompson, both of Halifax, and Samuel Thompson, of Middleborough, were appointed to make the partition and division of the real estate on the second Monday of Apr. 1847. The division was dated 16 Apr. 1847, and approved in Oct. 1847.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 87, p. 386-388, from FHL microfilm #0555638, Vol. 2H, p. 54, Vol. 88, p. 40-41, and Vol. 89, p. 404-408.

 

 

Will of Benjamin Richmond of Middleborough, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1829) *

In the name of the Supreme Jehovah, Amen, I Benjamin Richmond of Middleborough in the County of Plymouth & Commonwealth of Massachusetts Yeoman, being now of a sound and disposing mind but in a declining state of health think proper to make & establish the following as my last Will & Testament, of & concerning my remains and such Goods Estate & effects as I may die seized & possessed of

Imprimis, I order & direct that my body be decently interred after the manner of a Christian burial at the discretion of my Executrix hereafter named.

        Item. I give and bequeath to my wife Abigail Richmond the superintendence & improvement of all my Real & Personal Estate while she shall remain my widow, subject however to the following allowances bequests & devices, viz. to my Mother in Law a yearly allowance as specified in a Bond to her given, so long as she shall remain the Widow of my Father Joseph Richmond deceased.

        Item, I devise and bequeath to my son Isaiah Richmond Eight hundred dollars to be paid to him when he shall arrive at the age of twenty one years.

        Item, I bequeath and devise to my daughter Prudence Waldron Richmond the sum of One Thousand Dollars to be paid her when she may arrive at the age of twenty one years.

        Item. I give and bequeath to my daughter Elizabeth Richmond One thousand Dollars to be paid to her when she shall arrive to the age of twenty one years.

        Item. I give & devise to my youngest daughter Mary Richmond, One thousand Dollars to be paid to her when she may arrive at the age of twenty one years.

        Item. I give & bequeath to my youngest son Benjamin Richmond the sum of Eight hundred dollars to be paid to him when he shall arrive at the age of twenty one years, the above allowance & legacies to my children to be paid by my Executrix according to the above devises & bequests, as likewise the board and suitable education of said children while in a state of minority to be at her discretion and expenses, provided notwithstanding if by a connexion which any of my daughters may form for a life it shall be thought proper that they leave the house of their parentage, then if under twenty one, she or they may receive the said legacy bequeathed to them by relinquishing any further claim from the Estate.

        Item, I give and bequeath to my two sons Isaiah & Benjamin my Homestead farm, with the Buildings privileges & appurtenances thereto belonging. Also a lot of land forward of Samuel Miller’s Dwelling House, called the Hacket Farm. Also a lot on which Ezra Blackman lives, called the Turnpike lot. Likewise a lot of Cedar Swamp, which I bought of Elizabeth Padelford and her sister Atwood called the Long Pond Swamp, Also a Lot of Cedar Swamp Bottom that I own with Samuel Miller & John Edwister. Also a Piece of Cedar Swamp which I bought with Thomas F. Leonard, of Doctr. Samuel Shaw & wife of Bridgewater, Also a two acre lot I bought of Stephen Cornish & wife the last pieces of land lying in Taunton Bristol County, the said premises above described, to be the property of my two sons Isaiah & Benjamin, their heirs & assigns forever and to be possessed by them equally, when they shall both arrive to the age of twenty one years, to equally divide or not as they please, my said two sons at the time of their taking possession of said bequests to enter into bonds to grant unto their said Mother such privileges in the Dwelling House and other Buildings, and so much from the proceeds of the farm & in money as she & they consider sufficient for her yearly comfortable support while she may remain my widow, And I give unto my Wife and my two said sons my Pew in the Meeting House and all the Stock on the Farm, Carriages, Farming Utensils & Household furniture to be used & improved for their benefit and the benefit of the Farm forever.

        Finally I devise & bequeath to my said Wife Abigail Richmond any and all the Estate of whatever name that I have not devised or bequeathed in the foregoing instrument, to be disposed of among our said Children according to her discretion, she paying out all the aforementioned legacies together with all my just debts & funeral charges.

        And I do hereby nominate & appoint my said Wife the Executrix of this my last Will & Testament, hereby revoking all former Wills and bequests.           In witness of all which I hereto set my hand & seal this first day of April in the year of our Lord One thousand eight hundred & twenty nine.

                                                                                                                                                Benjamin Richmond                       (seal)

        Signed sealed published & declared in presence of us

us the subscribers as the last Will & Testament of the above named

testator, and we do at the request of said testator in presence of him

and of each other hereto subscribe our names

                Samuel Miller Junr.

                Elisha Tinkham Jun.

                Tisdale Leonard

 

        I hereby cordially acquiesce in & agree to abide by the foregoing Will of my said husband, in witness whereof I have hereto set my hand & seal in presence of the abovesaid witnesses & of him –

                                                                                                                                                Abigail Richmond

 

Probated on 15 Feb. 1830, proved by Samuel Miller Junr. & Tisdale Leonard, two of the witnesses. Letters of administration given to Abigail Richmond of Middleborough, widow.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 69, p. 40-42, from FHL microfilm #0555260.

 

 

Joint Will of Bethsheba Richmond, Reliance R. Shaw and Samuel Richmond of Middleborough, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1833) *

        We Reliance R. Shaw widow, Bethsheba Richmond Spinstress and Samuel Richmond Yeoman all in the town – Middleborough County of Plymouth and State of Massachusetts do give and bequeath unto the survivor of Either the above named Reliance, Bethsheba & Samuel all our personal property of whatever name or nature to have and to hold to either of us during our lives and then we give it to Solomon Richmond Tanner in the town Plymouth & County of Plymouth & State of Massachusetts to him the said Solomon and his heirs forever.

        Signed sealed & delivered this 12th day of December 1833.

In presence of

David Richmond                                                                                                                 Samuel Richmond

Mercy Samson                                                                                                                     Reliance Shaw

Hannah R. Shaw                                                                                                                  Bethsheba Richmond

 

The last Will and Testament of Reliance R. Shaw late of Middleborough was presented for probate on the first Tuesday of May 1845 by Samuel Richmond, therein named, and proved by Hannah R. Shaw, one of the witnesses therein subscribed, David Richmond and Mercy Sampson both now deceased.

 

The last Will and Testament of Bethsheba Richmond late of Middleborough Spinstress was presented for probate at the same time by Samuel Richmond, therein named, and proved by Hannah R. Shaw, one of the witnesses therein subscribed, David Richmond and Mercy Sampson both now deceased.

 

Samuel Richmond, of Middleborough, petitioned that Micah Richmond, of Plymouth, be appointed as Administrator with the Will annexed of the Estate of Bathsheba Richmond, late of Middleborough, Singlewoman, on 6 May 1845, which was granted, with Samuel Richmond and Ruel Richmond, both of Middleborough, as sureties.

 

Samuel Richmond, of Middleborough, petitioned that Micah Richmond, of Plymouth, be appointed as Administrator with the Will annexed of the Estate of Reliance R. Shaw, late of Middleborough, Widow, on 6 May 1845, which was granted, with Samuel Richmond and Ruel Richmond, both of Middleborough, as sureties.

No inventory of either estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 87, p. 144-146, from FHL microfilm #0555638, and Vol. 10A, pp. 541-542.

 

 

Will and Agreement of the Heirs of Ebenezer Richmond of Middleborough, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1729) *

In ye name of God amen I Ebenezer Richmond of Middleborough in ye County of Plymouth being weak & low in Body but of perfect Memory do make this my last Will & Testament: I Commit my Soul to God who gave it & my Body to be buried in decent Christian Burial: as to my outward Estate which God hath blest Me with as followeth: My Funeral Charge & just Debts to be first paid

I Give & Bequeath to my true & well beloved Wife Hannah Richmond all & whole & sole Improvement of my whole Estate real & personal during her Life: I Give to my Eldest Son Ebenezer Richmond all that my Lot of Land lying on Assawamsett Neck which I have heretofore given to him by a Deed of Gift from under my Hand and Seal

I Give to my Son Robert Richmond the one half of ye Farm I now live on with the Housing and Fencing on it that is to Say the So. West End

I Give to my Son Silvester Richmond the other Half of my sd Farm beginning at ye North West End

I Give to my Daughter Anna Richmond one Feather Bed & Bedding & ten Pound to be paid by my Son Robert Richmond at my Wifes Decease and ten Pound to be paid by my Son Silvester Richmond at my Wifes Decease: And I Give to my Daughter Rachel Richmond one Feather Bed and Bedding & five Pound to be paid by my Son Robert Richmond at my Wifes Decease and five Pound to be paid by my Son Silvester Richmond at my Wifes Decease

I Give to my Daughter Elizabeth Washburn the Wife of Edward Washburn five Pound to be paid by my Son Silvester Richmond at my Wifes Decease

I Constitute & appoint my Wife Executor to this my last Will & Testament and my Son Ebenezer Richmond to be Executor with my Wife_______and all ye rest of my moveable Estate to be divided equally to my three Daughters at my Wifes Decease

                Middleborough April ye Seventh Day anno Domini 1729

                                                                                                                                                 his

James Sprout                                                                                                        Ebenezer  H  Richmond                                    (seal)

Benja. Spooner                                                                                                                     mark

 

July ye 8th 1729. Benjamin Spooner made oath that he was desired by Ebenezer Richmond late of Middleborough deceased to write his Will & when I had written it I read it to him & asked him whether it was according to his mind & he said it was & afterwards I Saw him Sign & Seal it and I together with James Sprout Set to our Hands as Witnesses & that to ye best of my Judgment he then was of a Sound & disposing Mind & Memory    Taken upon oath ye Day abovesd

                                                                                                Before me Nathl. Thomas Justice of Peace

 

October ye 6, 1729. The Within named James Sprout made oath that he Saw ye Within named Ebenezer Richmond Sign Seal & heard him declare ye Within written Instrument to be his last Will & Testament and that he together with Benjamin Spooner at ye Same time in the Presence of ye Testator Set to their Hands as Witnesses and that according to ye best of his observation he then was of a Sound & disposing mind & memory – Before Isaac Winslow Judge of Probate

 

To all People to whom these Presents shall come Ebenezer Richmond & Robert Richmond of ye Town of Middleborough in ye County of Plymouth in ye Province of ye Massachusetts Bay in New England Sons of Ebenezer Richmond late of ye Town of Middleborough aforesd now deceased & Anna Richmond & Rachel Richmond both of Middleborough in ye County & Province aforesd Daughters of ye sd Deceasd & Elizabeth Washburn another of ye Daughters of sd Deceasd & Edward Washburn her Husband both of Bridgewater in ye County aforesd Sendeth Greeting &c. Whereas ye sd Ebenezer Richmond our Hond Father did in his Life time make a Will and for the true Intent & meaning thereof We ye aforesaid Ebenezer Richmond Robert Richmond Anna Richmond Rachel Richmond Elizabeth Washburn & Edward Washburn being willing do mutibly by Agree that this our Fathers last Will shall stand & remain in full force according to the true Intent & Meaning of ye Same. In Witness whereof We have hereunto Set Our Hands and fix Our Seals this twelfth Day of May Anno-1729

Signed Sealed in ye Presence of us                                                                   Ebenezer Richmond                            (seal)

Benja. Spooner – Nathl Southworth                                                                 Robert Richmond                                (seal)

                                                                                                                                Anna  X  Richmond                            (seal)     

Silvester Richmond Signed & Sealed ye                                                         Rachel Richmond                                (seal)

above in Presence of                                                                                           Elizabeth  +  Washburn                     (seal)

Edward Winslow  Mary Winslow                                                                     Edward Washburn                              (seal)

 

June ye 29 – 1730

The Within named Ebenezer Richmond Anna Richmond & Rachell Richmond Children of Ebenezer Richmond late of Middleborough in ye County of Plymouth Deceasd acknowledged ye Within written Instrumt to be their act & Deed   Before Isaac Winslow Judge of Probate

 

Septembr the 13 – 1731. The Within named Robert Richmond One of ye Sons of ye Within named Ebenr Richmond acknowledged ye Within written Instrument to be his act & Deed                                                                                                       Before Isaac Winslow Judge of Probate

 

Novembr ye 24, 1733. The Within named Edward Washburn of Bridgewater in ye County of Plymo & Elizabeth Washburn his Wife which Elizabeth is ye Daughter of Ebenezer Richmond late of Middleborough aforesd deceasd acknowledged ye Within written Instrumt to be their act and Deed

                                                                                                                                Before Isaac Winslow Judge of Probate

 

Septembr ye 6, 1737 The Above named Silvester Richmond of Middleborough in ye County of Plymouth Son of Ebenezer Richmond late of Middleborough aforesd deceasd Acknowledged ye Within written Instrument to be his act & Deed --                 Before Isaac Winslow Judge of Probate

 

In Observance of a Warrant Directed to us ye Subscribers from ye Judge of Probates We have taken an Inventory of ye Estate of Ebenezer Richmond late of Middleboroh deceasd both real & personal

[Not totaled, but his homestead valued at £350, and his four lots in Assawamsett Neck with the fencing & house valued at £180.]

                                                                                                                Ichabod Southworth

                                                                                                                Ebenezer Hamlin

                                                                                                                Nathl. Southworth

 

March ye fift 1729/30 Ebenezer Hamlin & Nathaniel Southworth made oath yt the wthin written is a just & equal apprisement of ye Estate of Ebenezer Richmond late of Middleborough in ye County of Plymouth Deceasd according to ye best of their Judgment

                                                                                                                Before Isaac Winslow Judge of Probate

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 7, p. 419-421, from FHL microfilm #0550513.

 

 

Will of Eleazer Richmond of Middleborough, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1797) *

In the Name of God amen I Eleazer Richmond of Middleborough in the County of Plymouth & Commonwealth of Massachusetts Yeoman being in Health of Body & of a sound composing Mind & memory, thanks be given to almighty God for it, having seriously called to mind the transitory state of my mortal Body & knowing that it is appointed for man once to die, I make, ordain or establish this to be my last will & Testament that is to say principally & first of all I give and recommend my Soul into the hand of Almighty God that gave it & my Body I recommend to the Earth to be buried in decent christian Manner at the Discretion of my Executor nothing doubting but at the general Resurrection, I shall receive the same again by the mighty power of God— And as touching such worldly Estate wherewith it has pleased almighty God to bless me with in this Life, I give devise & dispose of the same in the following Manner and Form,—

                Imprimis I give and bequeath to Deborah my dear & loving Wife, all my personal Estate of what kind soever, together with all the net Income of all my real Estate for her only use & Benefit during the full term of time that She remains my Widow —

                Also I give to my well beloved sons Josiah Richmond & Eleazer Richmond All my real Estate, that I am in possession of at the date of these presents to be equally divided between them, they paying all my just debts & funeral Charges & also to pay to each one of my other Children what I shall hereafter assign them, they allowing their Hond. Mother as above expressed the Improvement of all my real Estate during her Widowhood to them their Heirs & Assigns forever.—

                Item I give to my Daughter Sally Richmond seventeen Cents over & above what I have already given her, to her, her Heirs & Assigns forever.—

                Also I give to my Daughter Rebeckah Richmond seventeen Cents over & above what I have already given her, to her, her Heirs & Assigns.—

                Item I give to my Daughter Chloe Richmond forty Dollars to be paid her out of my Estate, after my decease, if not sooner wanted, to her, her Heirs & Assigns forever —

                Also I give to my Daughter Deborah Richmond forty Dollars to be immediately paid her out of my Estate, after the Date of these presents, to her, her Heirs & Assigns forever–

                Item I give to my Daughter Susanna Richmond forty Dollars, to be paid her out of my Estate after my decease if not sooner wanted, to her, her Heirs & Assigns forever—

                Also I give to my Daughter Polly Richmond forty Dollars to be paid her out of my Estate, after my decease to her, her Heirs & Assigns forever —

                Item I give to my well beloved Son Hercules Richmond forty Dollars to be paid him out of my Estate soon after my decease, to him, his Heirs & Assigns forever –

                Finally I do hereby constitute and appoint my Son Josiah Richmond to be the sole Executor of this my last will and Testament and I do by these Presents ratify & confirm this and no other to be my last Will & Testament In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand & seal this twenty sixth day of January in the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred & ninety seven –

Signed sealed & declared by the

said Eleazer Richmond to be his

last Will & Testament in presence of us,

                Elisha Tinkham

                T Paddock Tinkham                                                                                           Eleazer Richmond                           (seal)

                Rufus Richmond

 

                To the Hon. Joshua Thomas Judge of Probate. Sir having been appointed by my Father Executor of his last Will & having neglected my Duty untill my Health rendered me incapable, I do now with the advice of the Heirs request that you accept Hercules Richmond my Brother to do sd. Business in my Stead –

                                                                                                                Yours with respect  Josiah Richmond

Middleboro’ January 4th. 1817 –

 

Presented for probate on 6 Jan. 1817 by Hercules Cushman, of Middleborough, Housewright, Josiah Richmond, the Executor therein named having refused said Trust, and proved by Elisha Tinkham and Thomas Paddock Tinkham, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Hercules Richmond to well and faithfully execute the said Will and to administer the Estate.

 

Hercules Richmond, of Middleborough, Housewright, was granted administration with the will annexed of the estate of Eleazer Richmond, late of Middleborough, yeoman, on 6 Jan. 1817, with Elisha Tinkham and T Paddock Tinkham as sureties.

 

Thomas P. Tinkham, Elisha Tinkham, and Ephraim Leonard, all of Middleborough, yeomen, were appointed to appraise the Estate of Eleazer Richmond, late of Middleborough, yeoman, on 6 Jan. 1817. The Inventory of the Estate of Eleazer Richmond, late of Middleborough, dated 7 Apr. 1817, totaled $1397.50, including his homestead farm valued at $1000. Hercules Richmond, the Administrator with the Will annexed, gave his oath to the inventory on 17 Apr. 1817.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 48, pp. 318-320, 440, from FHL microfilm #0550905, and Vol. 46, p. 446.

 

 

Will of John Richmond of Middleborough, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1757) *

                                                In the Name of God, amen.

I John Richmond of Middleborough in the county of Plimouth in the province of the Massachusetts-Bay in New-England, being of sound mind & memory blessed be God, but seeing it is appointed by God for man once to die, & I not knowing the time of my death, therefore do make this to be my last will & testament, my soul I commit to God in Christ, my body to the earth to be decently buried in hopes of a joyful resurrection. The worldly estate that God hath given me, I dispose off as followeth. ~

Imprimis. I give to my beloved wife Sarah, besides her right of dower or power of thirds in my estate which I now give her, viz. I give her the sum of two pounds. –

Item – I give my son John Richmond all my lands, & all the buildings yt. is thereon, he to have the same, his heirs & assigns forever.—

Item. I give to my daughter Abigail forty pounds in moveables at money price to be paid by my executor within four years time after my decease. –

Item. I give to my said son John all the rest of my estate not given away in this my will he to have the same, his heirs & assigns forever. and I do constitute & appoint my said son John to be my executor to this my last will & testamt. he to pay my just debts, & legacies & funeral charges, & he to have my credits.

In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand & seal the twenty third day of August, anno Domini one thousand, seven hundred fifty seven, in the thirty first year of the reign of our sovereign Lord George the second of Great Brittain &c. ~

signed, sealed, pronounced, published, & declared                                                      John Richmond                                    (seal)

to be his last will & testament in presence of us

James Williams, Ann Williams, Seth Williams.

 

Presented for probate on 22 May 1767 by John Richmond, the Executor therein named, and proved by Seth Williams and James Williams, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to John Richmond, of Middleborough, yeoman, the Executor, with James Williams of Taunton, County of Bristol, esquire, as surety.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 19, p. 471-472, from FHL microfilm #0550711.

 

 

Will of Joseph Richmond of Middleborough, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1789) *

In the name of God Amen– I Joseph Richmond of Middleborough in the County of Plymouth & Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Weaver, being in a declining state of Life – yet of a sound disposing mind and memory, thanks be given to God; Calling unto mind the Mortalitiy of my Body and knowg it is appointed for all Men once to die, do make and ordain this my Last Will & Testament, that is to say Principle and first of all, I give and recommend my Soul into the hands of allmighty God that gave it, and my Body I recommend to the Earth to be Buryed in decent Christian burial, at the discretion of my executor hereafter named, Nothing doubting but at the general Resurrection I shall recieve the same again, by the mighty power of God, and as touching such worldly Estate wherewith it has pleased God to bless me with in this Life, I give devise & dispose of the same in the following manner and form,

Imprimis, my will is that my Just debts and funeral charges be well and truly paid – Item I give and bequeath to Anna Richmond my dearly beloved Wife all the houshold Goods and furniture she brought to me of any kind whatsoever that is not worn out, with all her wearing Apparel, and One Cow and a debt due to her from Abiel Williams of Raynham, all to be at her disposal, also one third part of the improvement of the estate whereon I now live, as Long as she Lives, with the best room in the easterly part of the dwelling house

I also give to my son Rufus Richmond, one shilling

I also give to my son Joseph Richmond junr. one shilling

I also give to my Daughter Hannah the wife of Seth Richmond a Red Chest

I also give to my Daughter Elisabeth, the wife of Joseph Leonard the fourth, a square kitchin table

I also give to my Daughter Rhoda Miller my great bible after I & my wife have done with it

I also give to Samuel Miller, whom I Likewise constitute make & ordain, the sole Executor of this my Last will & testament, all my neat Stock of Cattle, and all my wearing apparell & Indoor and out door moveables, including my Loom and weaving tackling, that I have not before given away Ratifying and confirming this and no other to be my Last will & testament.— In Witness whereof I have hereunto Set my hand and seal this twenty second day of July and in the year of our Lord 1789

Signed Sealed Published & pronounced                                                                         Joseph Richmond                            (seal)

& declared by the said Joseph Richmond

to be his Last will & testament in pre-

sence of us

                                Zebulon Leonard

                                Noah Leonard

                                Leonard Sears

 

Presented for probate on 4 July 1792 by Samuel Miller, the Executor therein named, and proved by Zebulon Leonard and Noah Leonard, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Samuel Miller, the before named Executor.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 33, p. 99-100, from FHL microfilm #0550716.

 

 

Will of Joseph Richmond of Middleborough, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1814) *

  In the Name of God amen I Joseph Richmond of Middleborough in the County of Plymouth & Commonwealth of Massachusetts Gentleman being now of a sound & disposing Mind, but considering the Mortality of Man think proper to make & establish the following as my last Will & Testament of & concerning my remains & such Goods, Estate, & Effects as I may die seized & possessed of—

        Imprimis I order & direct that my Body be decently entombed after the Manner of a Christian Burial at the discretion of my Executor hereafter named–

        Item I give & bequeath to my beloved Wife Phebe Richmond one third part of my Dwelling house to be of the easterly part thereof for her use & Enjoyment so long as she continues my Widow —

        Item I devise & bequeath to my Son Joseph Richmond that half of the Farm which I purchased of my Brother Rufus (the other half being now owned by my said Son) also ten Acres of Land Which I purchased of the Gilberts, also one half of the Lot of Land which I purchased of Joseph Paddock & Lydia Paddock, and also one other small Lot called the Southworth-Slough Lot.—

        Item I bequeath & devise to my Son Benjamin Richmond my homestead Farm with all the Buildings thereon, subject however to the provision which I have above made for my said Wife with the privileges & appurtenances thereof also the Farm lying south of John Richmond’s Dwelling house called the Hacket Farm, Also a Lot of Woodland situate in Raynham, which I purchased of Ebenezer Robinson & also all my Lands, which I have not above disposed of, the premises devised as above mentioned to be holden by my said Sons their Heirs & Assigns respectively forever —

        Item I give & bequeath to my Grandson Silas Hathaway junr. Son of Silas Hathaway one hundred Dollars to be paid to him when he shall arrive to the Age of twenty one years by my Executors herein named —

        Item I give & bequeath to my two Sons above named all the remainder of my Estate which I shall leave of whatever kind to be equally divided between them they first paying the above mentioned Legacy to my sd. Grandson, & all my just Debts & funeral Charges & I do hereby nominate & appoint my two said Sons Joseph and Benjamin the Executors of this my last Will and Testament hereby revoking and annulling all former Wills and Bequests —

  In Witness of all which I hereto put my hand & Seal this twenty first day of March in the Year eighteen hundred & fourteen —

Signed sealed published & declared in presence

of us the Subscribers as the last Will & Testament of

the above named Testator and we do at the request                                                      Joseph Richmond                         (seal)

of sd. Testator and in presence of him and of each

other hereby Subscribe our Names —

        Samuel Miller Junr.

        Jeremiah Tinkham

        Nabby Tinkham

 

Presented for probate on 5 Feb. 1824 by Joseph Richmond and Benjamin Richmond, the Executors therein named, and proved by Samuel Miller Junr. and Jeremiah Tinkham, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Joseph Richmond and Benjamin Richmond, the before named Executors.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 53, p. 251-252, from FHL microfilm #0550907.

 

 

Will of Josiah Richmond of Middleborough, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1762) *

In the Name of God Amen this twentysixth day of January in the Year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred & sixty two I Josiah Richmond of Middleborough in the county of Plimouth in his majesties Province of the Massachusets Bay in New-England Blacksmith being in the decays of nature but of perfect mind & memory thanks be given to God for it – therefore calling unto mind the mortality of my body & knowing that it is appointed for all Men once to die do make & ordain this my last will & testament, that is to say principally & first of all I give & recommend my soul into the hands of God that gave it & my Body I give to the earth to be buried in a decent christian manner at the discression nothing doubting but at the general Resurrection I shall receive the same again by the allmighty power of God & as touching such worldly Estate as wherewith it hath pleased God to bless me in this life I give & demise & dispose of the same, in the following manner and form.

Imprs. I give & bequeath Lidia Richmond my beloved wife all the goods she brought with her that is left besides what is wore out. & her thirds out of my Estate or dowry so long as she remains my widdow—

Item. I give to Mary Leonard my beloved daughter five shillings beside what I have allready given her.

Item. I give to Josiah Richmond my beloved son five shillings besides what I have allready given him –

Item. I give to Gershom Richmond my beloved son all the land that he hath now fenced in with his house being about twelve or fourteen acres the easterly corner of the hundred acre lott & a little piece where his blacksmiths shop stands the same side of the road being some of the hundred acre lott and my Gun –

Item. I give to my loving sons Benjamin & George Richmond four acres of land the west corner of my land joining to mr. John Warren & Leonards land that he bought of Jones –

Item I give to my loving daughter Mary Hacket five shillings besides what I have allready given her –

Item I give to my loving son Ephraim Richmond all the land that I have upon the south side of the great road that belongs to the hundred Acre lott & half the barn standing on the same land but Eleazer Richmond shall have the other half & liberty to go to it & I give to Ephraim & Leazer Richmond a thirty acre lot of land that I bought of Zachariah Eddy to be divided equally between them –

Item. I give to my loving son Lemuel Richmond five shillings besides what I have allready given him. –

Item I give to my loving daughter Miriam Walker five shillings besides what I have allready given her –

Item. I give to my loving daughter Zirah Richmond eight pounds lawfl. money

Item. I give to my loving son Eleazer Richmond whom I likewise make & ordain sole Executor of this my last will & Testament all the land lying on the north side of the country road that belongs to me except four acres that I gave to Benja. & George Richmond & Gershom Richmond which is above written & I give Eleazer Richmd. all the house besides the back lower fire room which I give to Ephm. Richmd. –

Item. I give to Eleazer Richmond all my stock & moveables to him & his heirs & assigns forever. the money is to be paid in three Years by my Executor to his brothers & sisters in three years after my decease & I do hereby utterly disallow, revoke & disannull all & every other former Testaments wills & Legacies & bequests named willed & bequeathed ratyfying this & no other to be my last will & testament—

In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal the day & Year abovewritten –

                                                                                                                                                Josiah Richmond                             (seal)

Signed, sealed, published, pronounced, & declared, by the sd. Josiah Richmond, as his last will & Testament in presence of us the subscribers.—

John Hacket

Joseph Richmond

Rufus Richmond

 

Presented for probate on 5 Apr. 1763 by Eleazer Richmond, the Executor therein named, and proved by Joseph Richmond and Rufus Richmond, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Eleazer Richmond, the Executor.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 16, p. 399-400, from FHL microfilm #0551543.

 

 

Will of Josiah Richmond of Middleborough, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1824) *

        In the name of God Amen. I Josiah Richmond of Middleboro, in the County of Plymouth Commonwealth of Massachusetts Yeoman, being of sound disposing mind and memory, Blessed be God therefor Considering that it is appointed for all men once to die do make and ordain this my last Will and testament

First. I recommend my soul to God that gave it and my body to the earth to be decently buried and as to my worldly estate wherewith it has pleased God to bless me with in this life do dispose of in manner following. I give to my brother Eleazer Richmond one dollar. I give to the children of my sister Sally Richmond deceased the late wife of Seth Richmond Jun. one dollar each

I give to my sister Rebecca Richmond the wife of Abraham Richmond one dollar

I give to my sister Deborah Richmond the wife of William Richmond one dollar

I give to Polly Leonard the wife of George Leonard 2d one dollar

I give to my sisters Chloe Richmond and Susanna Richmond the improvement of all my Estate both real and personal during their natural lives

I give to my brother Herculas Richmond the whole of my estate both real and personal to him his heirs and assigns forever after the decease of my two sisters to whome I have given the improvement he performing such duties and paying all legacies herein mentioned and to pay all my Just debts and charges and to receive all debts that may be due to me

Lastly I constitute and appoint said Herculas Richmond Sole Executor of this my last will and testament

Signed sealed and declared this thirteenth day of November in the year of our Lord one thousand Eight hundred and twenty four

in presence of us

        James Leonard                                                                                                             Josiah Richmond                             (seal)

        Isaac Tinkham

        Otis L Tinkham

 

Presented for probate on the first Tuesday of May 1849 by Hercules Richmond, the Executor therein named, and proved by James Leonard and Otis L. Tinkham, two of the witnesses whose names are subscribed thereto. Letters Testamentary were granted to Hercules Richmond, the Executor therein named.

 

Hercules Richmond, of Middleborough, was appointed as Executor of the last Will and Testament of Josiah Richmond, late of Middleborough, on 1 May 1849, with James Leonard and Otis L. Tinkham, both of Middleborough, as sureties.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 91, p. 201-203, from FHL microfilm #0555640, and Vol. 1G, p. 502.

 

 

Will of Saloma Richmond of Plymouth, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1826) *

                Commending my Soul to God who gave it, and trusting in his mercy through Christ for salvation, I Saloma Richmond of Plymouth in the County of Plymouth, dispose of my estate as follows –

                I give and bequeath to my daughter Hannah Burgess, and at her decease to go to my grand-daughter Lydia Anderson Atwood the Southerly half of my house and land in said Plymouth, as far as the centre of the chimney, with all the land and appurtenances, on the South end of said lot as far as a line through the centre of the chimney to run Easterly at right angles with the front of said house imbracing the whole width of the lot, reserving a right of way to the lane to the owners of the other end of said house and land ~~

                Also I give and bequeath all the rest of my estate to be divided equally among my children – Alpheus Richmond, Hannah Burgis, Nathan Richmond and Polly Richmond.

                Also I order my Executors to pay one dollar to Susanna Richmond, daughter of Simon Richmond my son; and one dollar to each of my grand children, Joseph Wm Burgess, Simon Richmond, Burgis – and if my daughter Polly Richmond be not now alive, I give one dollar to each of her children tho’ I don’t know their names ~~

                And I hereby appoint Joseph Burgis and Capt Solomon Davie both of Plymouth Executors of this Will. The above legacies are void if not called for in one year from my decease.

                In Testemony of which I have set my hand and seal at Plymouth March 30th, 1826.

                Signed sealed & delivered to be her                                                                Saloma Richmond                           (seal)

                Will in presence of us

                    Z. Bartlett

                Barnabas Holmes

                Nathan Richmond.

 

Presented for probate on 5 Dec. 1836 by Joseph Burgis, the Executor therein named, and proved by Barnabas Holmes and Nathan Richmond, two of the subscribers. Letters Testamentary were granted to Joseph Burgess, the Executor therein named.

 

The Inventory of the estate of Saloma Richmond, late of Plymouth, widow, deceased, was appraised on 27 Aug. 1836 by Schuyler Sampson, Bridgham Russell, and Leander Lord, and totaled $234.28, including her real estate valued at $225. Joseph Burgess, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 5 Dec. 1836.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 78, p. 521-522, from FHL microfilm #0555264.

 

 

Will of Benjamin Rickard of Plympton, Plymouth County, Massachusetts Bay (1785) *

In the Name of God Amen– I Benjamin Rickard of Plymton in the County of Plymouth & Commonwealth of Massachusetts in New-England, yeoman, being weak in body, but of perfect mind and memory thanks be Given to God therefor, calling unto mind the mortality of my body and knowing that it is appointed for all men once to die do make and ordain this my Last will and testament and desire it to be recieved by all as such, that is to say principally & first of all, I Give and Recommend my Soul into the hands of God that Gave it, and my body I Recommend to the earth to be buried in decent Christian burial at the discretion of my Executor hereafter named, nothing doubting but at the General Resurrection I shall recieve the same again by the mighty power of God & as touching such worldly Estate wherewith it hath pleased God to bless me in this Life I Give, demise and dispose of the same in the following manner and form.~

Imprimis – I Give and bequeath to Thankful my well beloved wife the improvement of the whole of my Dwelling House, and one third part of my whole Estate during her natural Life. Excepting a small piece of fresh meadow hereafter mentioned

Item – I Give to my Daughter Deborah Stranger and to her Heirs and assigns forever the whole of two thirds of all my Real Estate, Excepting my Dwelling House & the aforementioned piece of fresh meadow.~

Item – I Give to the Heirs of my kindsman John Rickard Late of Plymton deceased, and to their Heirs and assigns forever the above mentioned piece of meadow containing by estimation about three acres, be the same more or Less, Lying and being in a place called Doten’s meadows in Plymton, being all the meadow I own at that place.–

Item – I Give to Seth Fuller Son to Benjamin Fuller Late of Plymton deceased, all my wearing apparell and two Good Store Sheep

Item – I Give to Rebecca Rickard Daughter to Theophilus Rickard Late of Plymton deceased, and to her Heirs and assigns forever my Loom warping bars & Seven Slays together with all the other utensills belonging to the Loom – I also Give her one Feather Bed with the Smallest Striped ticking, together with the under Bed, a new turned Bedstead, Bed cord, pillows & Bolster belonging to the same with one Coverlid with a Linnen warp black & morse coloured–I also Give to the said Rebecca three new Chairs two black ones and one red one, one pewter platter three pewter plates and one Quart Bason all marked T R together with my warming pan Looking Glass three blue and white earthen plates, a Glass vinegar Cruse a candle stand a Great Spinning wheel, a foot wheel a pair of Flat Irons and one trammel, the Rest and Residue of all my Estate not before disposed of in this my Last will and testament, I Give to my Daughter Deborah Stranger and to her Heirs and assigns forever, and my will is, and I do positively order my Daughter Deborah Stranger to pay all my just debts and funeral Expences.~

Lastly – I do constitute make and ordain my trusty friend Elijah Bisbe junr my Sole Executor of this my Last will and testament, and do hereby utterly disallow, Revoke and disanul all and every other former will & testament, Legacies & bequeaths & Executors by me in any way before named, willed & bequeathed, Ratifying & confirming this & no other to be my Last will & testament – In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand & Seal this twenty Second day of April in the year of our Lord one thousand Seven Hundred & Eighty & five

Signed, Sealed, published, pronounced

& declared by the said Benjamin Rickard                                                                                         his

as his Last will & testament in the pre-                                                                           Benjamin  Z  Rickard                         (seal)

sence of us the Subscribers ~                                                                                                           mark

                Elijah Rickard

                Asa Donham

                Simeon Rickard

 

Presented for probate on 2 June 1788 by Elijah Bisbe junr, the Executor therein named, and proved by Elijah Rickard and Simeon Rickard, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Elijah Bisbe junr, the before named executor.

 

Thomas Gannet, Gentm, James Churchill Gentm., and Ebenezer Soule, yeoman, all of Plymton, were appointed to appraise the estate of Benjamin Rickard, late of Plymton, yeoman, on 12 Sept. 1788. The Inventory, dated 6 Oct. 1788, totaled £323.15.5, including his homestead farm and buildings valued at £192. Elijah Bisbe junr., the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 6 Oct. 1788.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 30, pp. 410-412, 450, from FHL microfilm #0550716.

 

 

Will of Eleazer Rickard of Plympton, Plymouth County, State of the Massachusetts Bay (1783) *

In the name of God Amen—Eleazer Rickard of the Town of Plymton in the County of Plymouth in New England, yeoman, Labouring under many infirmities of body which are Symptoms of approaching mortality, but of perfect and disposing memory, thanks be Given to almighty God for the same, but calling to mind the mortality of my body, and knowing that it is appointed for all men once to die to make & ordain this my Last will & testament ~

Imprimis—I will and bequeath my Soul to God that Gave it me, and my body to the dust to be decently buried at the discretion of my Executor hereafter named, nothing doubting but at the General Resurrection I shall Recieve the same again by the mighty power of God; and having disposed of the Greatest part of my Estate already amongst my Children, and taken bonds of some of them for my maintenance & the maintenance of my wife, during our natural Lives, I do now dispose of the Remainder of my Estate amongst my children in manner following

Item—I will and bequeath unto my Loving daughter Mercy Wright the wife of James Wright junr. the one fifth part of all my Bedding & Linnen, pewter Earthen and Glass ware to her, her heirs & assigns forever.~

Item—I will and bequeath unto my Loving daughter Mary Chase the wife of Consider Chase the sum of Six Shillings to be paid her out of my moveable Estate to be paid by my Executor hereafter named, the abovesaid six shillings I do Give unto my said daughter Mary Chase, to her, her heirs and assigns forever.~

Item—I will and bequeath unto my Loving daughter Sarah Wright the wife of Perez Wright the one fifth part of all my Linnen, Bedding, pewter, Earthen & Glass ware, to her, her heirs & assigns forever.~

Item—I will and bequeath unto my Loving daughter Kezia Ransom the wife of Joseph Ransom, the one fifth part of all my Bedding & Linnen, Pewter & Earthen & Glass ware, to her, her heirs and assigns forever.~

Item—I will and bequeath unto my Loving Grandson Lewis Chase Son of the aforesaid Consider Chase, the one fifth part of all my Bedding, Linnen, pewter Earthen & Glass ware, to him, his heirs and assigns forever; but if in Case sd. Lewis Chase dies before he shall arrive to the age of twenty one years old, that then the abovesaid fifth part Given to the abovesaid Lewis Chase shall be equally divided amongst all my Children, to them & their heirs & assigns forever.~

Item—I will and bequeath unto my Loving daughter Deborah Rickard the one fifth part of all my Bedding Linnen, pewter, Earthen & Glass ware, I also Give to my said daughter my best foot wheel all the above articles I do Give to my said daughter Deborah Rickard and to her heirs & assigns forever

Item—I will and bequeath unto my Loving daughter Mercy Wright the wife of James Wright junr. the one 8th part of all the Remainder of my Estate both Real & personal that I have not heretofore disposed of, to her, her heirs & assigns forever my funeral charges & my wifes funeral charges being first paid out of said Estate –

Item—I will and bequeath unto my Loving daughter Sarah Wright the wife of Perez Wright the one 8th part of all my Estate both Real & personal that I have not heretofore disposed of, to her, her heirs & assigns forever, my funeral charges & my wife’s funeral charges being first paid of said Estate

Item—I will and bequeath unto my Loving daughter Kezia Ransom the wife of Joseph Ransom the one 8th part of all my Estate both Real & Personal that I have not heretofore disposed of, unto her, her heirs and assigns forever, my funeral charges & my wife’s funeral charges being first paid out of said Estate ~

Item—I will and bequeath unto my Loving daughter Deborah Rickard the one 8th. part of all my Estate both Real & Personal that I have not heretofore disposed of, to her, her heirs and assigns forever, my funeral charges & my wife’s funeral charges being first paid out of said Estate ~

Item—I will and bequeath unto my Loving son Eleazer Rickard one 8th. part of all my Estate both Real & personal that I have not heretofore nor in this will disposed of amongst my daughters & Grandson, to him, his heirs & assigns forever—my funeral charges & my wife’s funeral charges being first paid out of said Estate

Item—I will and bequeath unto my Loving son Abner Rickard one 8th part of all my Estate both Real & personal that I have not heretofore disposed of nor in this will disposed of amongst my daughters and Grandson, to him, his heirs & assigns forever, my funeral charges & my wife’s funeral charges being first paid out of said Estate ~

Item—I will and bequeath unto my Loving Son Elijah Rickard one 8th part of all my Estate both Real & personal that I have not heretofore disposed of, nor in this will disposed of amongst my daughters & Grandson, to him his heirs and assigns forever, my funeral charges & my wife’s funeral charges being first paid out. ~

Item—I will and bequeath unto my Loving Grandson Lewis Chase son of the aforesaid Consider Chase the one 8th part of all my Estate both Real & Personal that I have not heretofore disposed of nor in this will disposed of amongst my daughters, to him his heirs & assigns forever, but if in Case my said Grandson Lewis Chase should die before he arrives to the age of twenty one years of age, my will is that the aforesaid 8th part Given to my said Grandson shall be equally divided amongst all my Children, my funeral charges & my wife’s funeral charges being first paid out of said Estate, to them and their heirs and assigns forever ~

Lastly—I nominate and appoint my Loving Son Eleazer Rickard to be the Sole Executor of this my Last will and testament, hereby Revoking all other & former wills either written or verbal by me heretofore made or done, hereby Ratifying & Confirming this my Last will to Remain firm and Irrevokable, and in Testimony whereof I the abovesaid Eleazer Rickard have hereunto Set my hand and Seal the twenty ninth day of October and in the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred Eighty and three—1783

Signed, Sealed & pronounced & declared

by the sd. Eleazer Rickard to be his Last will                                                                  Eleazer Rickard                (seal)

& testament in presence of us

                Sylvanus Donham

                Samuel Lucas

                John Rickard

 

Presented for probate on 1 March 1784 by Eleazer Rickard, the Executor therein named, and proved by Sylvanus Donham and Samuel Lucas, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Eleazer Rickard, the before named Executor.

 

Sylvanus Donham, John Sherman and Thomas Doten, all of Plymton, yeomen, were appointed to appraise the estate of Eleazer Rickard, late of Plymton, yeoman, on 1 March 1784. The Inventory, not dated, totaled only £44.6.2, including a piece of cedar swamp valued at £6.12, and pew, but no other real estate. The appraisers gave their oath to the inventory on 15 Mar. 1784, and Eleazer Rickard, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 19 May 1784.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 29, p. 104-107, from FHL microfilm #0550715.

 

 

Will of Giles Rickard of Plymouth, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1702) *

Be it knowne unto all whome these presents may concern that I Giles Rickard Senior of the Town of plimouth in the County of plimouth within the Province of the Massachusetts Bay in NewEngland Being sick & weake & not knowing how soon it may please God to call me to leave this world Doe therefore make & ordaine this Instrument to be my last Will & Testament to Remaine firm and Inviolable forever In manner following. Imprimis I doe Give & bequeath my soul to God who gave it me & my body to the dust & to Decent burial in hopes of a Joyfull Resurrection through the merets of Jesus Christ; And as to that Estate that God hath given to me I dispose of as followeth Item I do give unto my sons that is to say John Rickard & Samuel Rickard all that my fifty acres of land that was Given to me by my honoured father Giles Rickard late of Plimouth deceased; being within the Township of Plimouth at a place commonly called & known by the name of Annasuappott sd 50 acres is divided between sd John & Samuel above named by a path that cometh from Lakenham to Colchester, sd land above Mentioned I do Give unto my sd sons John Rickard & Samuel Rickard to them & their heirs & assignes forever. Item I doe give unto my son Henery Rickard & to his heirs & assignes forever all that my thirty acres of land that was Granted to me by the Inhabitants of Plimouth lying at Annasuapott above named, Item that whereas my honoured father in his last Will & Testament gave unto my Son Giles Rickard some Considerable Estate in lands wherein I have some right unto dureing his life time or what further right I may have or might pretend to have unto that Estate I do by these presents freely give & Bequeath it unto him my sd son Giles Rickard to him & his heirs & assignes forever; Item I do Give unto my son Eleazer Rickard and to his heirs & assignes forever all that my lot of land that was my fathers lying above Wollonsly being in Estimation 18 or 20 acres more or less lying on the Northwest side of the wadoy[?] that leads to Wollonslo; Item my will is that all my Interest of meadows Lying about the abovesd Annasuapott shall be Equally devided between my four sons now Inhabiting those viz John Rickard Samuel Rickard and Henery Rickard & Eliazor Rickard most convenient for Each of them Item I doe give unto my son Josiah Rickard & to his heirs & assignes forever viz: after my decease & my wives decease the house I now live in together with the land I have about it that is to say the garden spots & the field formerly Caleb Southards field as also the field lying by the high way to the Northward of Joseph Faunces land: as also six acres of land on the southward corner of Billingtons sea near to small games so called as also six acres of meadow at Southers marsh so called as also all my Interest of meadow & upland that I have at the south meadow so Called, as also one acre of meadow at the high pines so called; Item my Will is that after my wives decease that my four daughters shall have each of them a bed & alike furnature to them As also my will is that all my personal Estate that shall be found after my wives decease shall be Equally devided between my four daughters that is to say Abigall Judeth Hannah & Marcy, Item my will is that all my personall Estate togather with my house & land belonging to it shall be at my wifes dispose during her Naturall Life for her support & Comfort; And I do by these presents constetute & appoint my dear & loving wife Hannah Rickard to be the sole Executrix of this my last will & Testament to Receive such debts as is owing to me, & to pay such debts as I owe & to see my body decently buryed & to defray the Charge thereof, Thus hoping that this my Last Will & Testament will be kept & observed hereby Revoking all former Wills Either written & verball I the sd Giles Rickard have hereunto set my hand & affixed my seals on the ninth day of febuary Anno Domini one thousand seven hundred & one or 1701/2

Signed Sealed & declared to be                                                                                        the mark of

his last will & Testament in                                                                                              Giles  C  Rickard  (seal)

presents of us

Nathaniel Morton

the marke of R  Rebeckah Wood

Thomas Faunce

 

Memorandum that on the Eighteenth day of December Anno Domini 1702 Elder Thomas Faunce & Ensign Nathaniel Morton made oath before Nathaniel Thomas Esq: Judge of the Probate of Wills &c that they did see & hear the abovenamed Giles Rickard signe seal & declare the above written Instrument to be his last Will and Testament & that he then was of a disposing mind to the best of their knowledge & Judgements & that Rebeckah Wood then set to her hand as a witness

                                                                                                                                                Nathll Thomas  Register

 

The inventory of the Estate of Giles Rickard Senior late of Plimouth, taken by John Churchell, Nathaniel Morton & Thomas Faunce, was dated 4 Dec. 1702, but not totaled.

 

* Transcried by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 2, p. 3-4, & 5, from FHL microfilm #0550748.

 

 

Will of Giles Rickard of Plymouth, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1709) *

In the name of God Amen The Last Will and Testament of Giles Rickard of plymouth in the County of plymouth In New England—I Giles Rickard being wake & infirm in body but thrô Gods Goodness of a sound & Disposing mind & Memory Considering the unsertainty of Life & sertainty of Death & being senceable tis my Duty to set my house in order before I Dy Do make & ordain this my Last Will & Testament as follows That is to say first of all I bequeath my Imortall soal to God wch Gave it Intirely Depending upon the merrits of Jesus Christ for salvation And my body to the earth (in hopes of a Glorious Resurection to Life & Glory throh Christ the first fruits from the Dead) to be Decently buried according to the Direction of my Executrix Herein below Named

And as to what temporall Estate it hath Pleased God to Lend me my Just Debts & funerall Charges being first paid & Defrayed—I Dispose of the same as followeth (viz)

Impr I Give & bequeath unto my Dear & Loving wife Hannah Rickard all my whole Estate both Reall & persinall Dureing the time of her widow hood for her support & subsistance allowing her to make sale of any part thereof for her suport & Livelihood if it shall be judged nesessary by my frends below mentioned whome I have Desired to advice and Counsell my sd wife Excepting that which I have below bequeathed & made Disposall of ~ ~

Item I Give & bequeath unto the Church of Christ in Plymouth the sum of Seven pounds to be paid out of my moveable Estate to the Deacons of said Church within two years after my decease & by them to be Laid out in plate for the Communion Table—

Item I Give & bequeath unto my adopted Child Desire Doton the sum of five pounds to be paid out of my moveable Estate when she shall arrive to the age of 21 years or at her marriage which shall first happen—

Item I Give & bequeath to my Kinsman Samll Rickard the son of my brother Henry Rickard the sum of five pounds to be paid to him when he shall arrive unto the age of twenty one years

Item It is my will that if my sd Dear wife shall se Good to Change her Condition & Marry again that she have fifty pounds of my Estate for her self & for her heirs for Ever in such Estate as she shall so Cause to Chose & also If she Remain my widow till Death & shall not Marry that she have power by her Last Will & Testament to Dispose of fifty pounds of my Estate as she shall so cause and to whome she pleaseth—

And as for what Estate shall be Remaining after ye 2d Marriage or Decease of my said dear wife I dispose of ye same as followeth: (viz)

Impr: I Give & bequeath to my kinsman John Rickard the oldEst son of my Brother John the sum of five pounds to be paid within one year after my wifes Decease or 2d Marriage—

Item: I Give & bequeath unto my kinsman Giles Rickard the Eldest son of my Brother Josiah five pounds

Item I Give & bequeath unto Samll Rickard ye son of my Brother samll 5 pounds

Item I Give & bequeath to Sarah Rickard ye Daughter of my Brother Eliezer Rickard five pounds

Item I Give & bequeath unto John Whiteing ye son of my sister abigall 5 pounds

I Give & bequeath to Eliezer faunce ye son of my sister Judeth 5 pounds

Item I Give & bequeath to myrcy Eaton the Dafter of my sister Hannah 5 pounds all these Last mentioned Legacies to be paid within on year after my sd Dear wifes Decease or second marriage—

Item all Residue of my whole Estate both Reall & personall whatsoever & wheresoever I Give & bequeath to my kinsman Samll Rickard ye son of my brother Henry & to Desire Doten My sd adopted Child who doth now Dwell with me & are under my Care & Charge to them their heirs & assigns forever to be Equally Divided between them—

Item I nominate & Constitute & appoint my sd Dear wife Hannah Rickard sole Executrix in this my Last will & Testament Trusting in her Care and prudence in Manageing of the same & do with all Request & Desire my frends Mr Ephraim Little & Mr Stephen Barnibe to advice Counsell & assist my sd Executrix in all the promiseces & Do hereby revoak make null & void all former wills & Testaments by me heretoford made—Ratifying and Confirming & allowing this & no other as my Last will & Testament & in witness hereof have hereunto sett my hand & seall this Twentieth Day of December anno Domini 1709

Signed Sealed & Declared to be

his Last will & Testament                                                                                                 Giles Rickard    (seal)

In pesents of us

Eliezer Churchell

Stephen Barnibe

Ephraim Little

 

Memorand—on the 10 Day of March 1709/10 before Nathaniel Thomas Esqr Judge of the Probate &c Elieazer Churchell Stephen Barnibe & Mr Ephraim Little made oath that they weare pesent & Did se & here the above named giles Rickard sign seall & Declare the above writen to be his Last Will & testament & then he was of a Disposing mind & memory to the best of their Judgement as attest

                                                                                                                                                Nathll Thomas Register

 

An Inventory of the Estate of Mr Giles Rickard Deceased Taken on febuary 7th 1709/10 by John dyer & John foster, not totaled, but included his homestead housing & upland valued at £200, and 30 acres of Land & 6 acres of Meadow valued at £26, sworn to by Hannah Rickard, relict widow of the deceased, on 10 Mar. 1709/10.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 2, p. 162-165, from FHL microfilm #0550748.

 

 

Will of Gyles Rickard of Plymouth, Colony of New Plymouth (1684) *

                                The Last Will and Testament of Gyles Rickard senir:

                                mad ordained and appointed the 8th of January 1684 )

Gyles Rickard senir: of the Towne of Plymouth in the Jurisdiction of Plymouth in New England in America yeoman being being sicke and weake in body but of disposing Mind and Memory doe ordaine this to be my Last Will and Testament in Manor and form followinge; Imprimis I Doe heerby Disanull and Make void all former wills and Testaments by me formerly made macking these prsents to be my Last Will and Testament bequeathing my soule to God that Gave it and my body to the Dust to be decently buried; And for the disposing of my outward estate my will is that my deare and Loveing wife hannah Rickard Shall have and enjoy and posesse the Ne[?]st prte of my house sittuate in Plymouth aforesaid (viz) the Lower and uper Rome and the Garrett about them; and the Little bed for bed Rome on the Southerly Side of the house; and the use of one halfe of my shopy and Leanto and barne and Leantoo; and the benifitt and use of halfe of my orchyard and the benifitt and Improvement of half my Land and feild both that above my house and att Wellingsley both upland and Meddow and the use of one halfe of my Meddow during her Widdowhood; Item I Will and bequeath unto my said deare hannah Rickard my second best bed; and suitable furniture (viz) the homade Ruge and the wrought Coverlidd the best I have and two paire of good Sheets and a bolster and two pillows and a paire of Good blanketts to be att her dispose for ever; Item my will is that the bedsteeds and Table and formes; in the uper Rome and the Curtaines and vallence shall not be Removed out of the said uper Rome but that my wife hannah Rickard shall have the use of them there during her widowhood

I Give unto my wife one pewter platter and two Cowes or the vallue thereof and an Iron pot and pothooks and pothangers which I bought of Cobb of Taunton to be att her Dispose for ever; and the use of the Great kettle during her widowhood forever Item I will and dispose to my said wife halfe a dosen of Table Napkins for ever and a Table Cloth for ever; Item I give and bequeath unto my Grand Son John Rickard the son of my son John Rickard deceased my fifty acrees of upland att Winatuxett; and my thirteen accrees and an half of meddow att Winatuxett To him his heires and assignes for ever; Item I give and bequeath unto my said Grandson John Rickard a smale Chist and key to it and my wrought pewter plater Item my will is that incase my Grand son Gyles Doe Carry himself well here towards mee whiles I live and be Carefull of mee that hee shall have and I doe bequeath unto him all and singulare the house and orchyard I now Live in and upon with the feild above the house and my Land att Wellinsley both upland and meddow excepting a smale peece of upland that I lately sold to William Churchill of Plymouth aforesaid and alsoe A prsell of Land of myne lying above the Little Towne To him the abovesaid Gyles Rickard The son of my son Gyles Rickard To him and his heires and assignes forever to be posessed by him soon after my decease excepting that Interest which my wife hath therin; which Likewise I doe bequeath unto my said Grandson to be posessed by him when my wifes Interest therin is ended; Likewise I doe Give unto my said Grandson Gyles Rickard the Loomes which I did use to weave in; with the warping bones with the furniture to be Injoyed att my decease and Likewise one bed and Green (can’t read) and one bolster and one paire of blanketts, of the best, and a paire of sheets and a Cow, incase my said Grandson Gyles Rickard doe decease before his father and die without issue Then my will is that the said Lands Now bequeathed unto my Grand son Gyles Rickard shalbe settled upon and I doe hereby bequeath to my son Gyles Rickard; his father To him and his heires for ever; But incase that my Grand son Gyles Rickard Leave a widdow, my will is that shee shall have a thirde of the proffits of the Lands next above Mensioned during her widdowhood Item my will is & I doe heerby bequeath unto my Grandson John Rickard the son of Gyles Rickard all my Right all my Right and Interest in Lands att Middleberry allies Namassasett; to him and his heires and assignes for ever; further My Will is That all my whole estate consisting of Lands Cattles and Chattles, with theire appurtenences and all my Right title and Interest of and Into them and any prte and psell therof with the exceptions above excepted and all my debts Legacyes and funerall Charges expenses being discharged; I the said Gyles Rickard Senir: doe heerby will and bequeath and Make over unto my son Gyles Rickard the Reserve to him and his heires for ever whom I doe like wise by these prsents Make ordaine and Constitute to be the sole executor of this my Last Will and Testament; and I heerby Request and appointt my beloved friends Lieftenant Ephraim Morton; and Serjeant William to be the overseers of this My Last Will and Testament; much Confiding in theire faithfulnes to see this my Last will and Testament prformed according to the tenor thereof; In witnes wherof I the said Gyles Rickard have have heerunto sett my hand and seale this eight day of January one thousand six hundred eighty and four 1684

Signed and sealed in prsence                                                                                             Gyles Rickard     and a    (seal)

of us Ephraim Morton

William harlow Senir:

The G mark of Gorge

 

Ephraim Morton Senir and William harlow senir made oath in Court the fift of March 1684/85 that they see Gyles Rickard signe seale this to be his Last Will and Testament and that to the best of theire understandinge hee was of a Disposing Mind when hee soe did; Attest

                                                                                                                                Nathaniel Morton

                                                                                                                                                Secretary

 

A true Inventory of the estate of Gyles Rickard senir Late Deceased taken and Apprised by Lieftenant Ephraim Morton and Serjeant William harlow the first of February 1684 as followeth;

[Not totaled]

                                                                                                                                                Ephraim Morton senr.

                                                                                                                                                William harlow senr:

hanah Rickard the Relict of Gyles Rickard Deceased made oath that this is a true Inventory of the estate of her said husband and when shee knowes More shee will Cause it to be added to this Inventory March the fift 1684/85

                                                                                                as atteste                Nathaniel Morton

                                                                                                                                                Secretary

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth Colony Records, Wills Vol. 4, Part 2, p. 101-103.

 

 

Will of Jacob Rickard of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1807) *

        In the Name of God amen I Jacob Rickard of Bridgwater in the County of Plymouth Commonwealth of Massachusetts Yeoman tak into consideration the Uncertainty of this Mortal State do make & ordain this my last Will and Testament in the Manner and form following viz—   I give and bequeath unto my beloved Wife Hannah Rickard the Improvement of one half of my real Estate during her natural Life and one half of my personal Estate to improve while she lives —     I give my Daughter Salome Pratt four Dollars to be paid in one year after my decease —     I give my Daughter Hannah Rickard one half of my real Estate and half of my personal Estate at my decease with all my property of whatsoever name or Nature, to her & her Heirs or Assigns including the property after my Wife’s decease, and I do appoint her sole Executrix of this my last Will and Testament, who is to pay all my just debts funeral Charges & the Legacy aforesaid and I do hereby revoke and disannul all Wills by me heretofore made ratifying & confirming this to be my last Will & Testament. In Witness whereof do set my hand & Seal this eighth day of December in the Year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred & seven —

Signed sealed published & pronounced in presence of us who in

the presence of each other & at said Rickard’s request sign our Names as

witnesses to the same ~~

                Adin Packard junr.                                                                                              Jacob Rickard                                   (seal)

                Davis Packard

                Jesse Perkins

 

Presented for probate on 7 Aug. 1809 by Hannah Rickard, the Executrix therein named, and proved by Adin Packard junr. and Jesse Perkins, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Hannah Rickard, the before named Executrix.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 43, p. 13-14, from FHL microfilm #0550902.

 

 

Abstract of the Will of John Rickard of Plymouth, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1711) *

Will of John Rickard, of Plymouth, being weak of body, dated 20 Apr. 1711, mentions:

To my dear & loving wife Mary Rickard during her widowhood one third part of my moveable estate except what I may below except, the west end of my dwelling house with the old house adjoyning, one third part of the house lot or garden spot adjoyning with my old barn, two cows, and if my son James marries before the decease or marriage of my wife, that he should have the liberty of dwelling with my wife in the west end of the house, also she to have the use of part of the cellar under the east end of the house, and two lots of cedar swamp to be sold if she needs it for the payment of debts.

To my eldest son John Rickard the easterly end of my dwelling house with two thirds of the garden spot adjoyning with my new barn, plus two thirds of all my land and meadows in Plympton, and 15 acres of land laid out to me in Plymouth between the South Meadow path and Lakenham path with my said son’s 60 acre lot.

To my son James Rickard the west end of my dwelling house with the old house adjoyning and the old barn with one third of the garden spot after the marriage or decease of my wife, also the use of part of the cellar under the east end of the house given to my son John, also one third of all my lands and meadows in Plympton, and my 45 acres of land being part of my 60 acre lot near West pond in Plymouth adjoyning the land of Eleazer Jackson together with all my common right in undivided lands in the townships of Plymouth and Plympton.

To my sons John and James an equal part in my wharf with the buildings upon the same and the land adjoyning that I purchased of Robert Ransome deceased, John to have the Cooper’s shop and warehouse adjoyning, and James to have the old warehouse. Sons John and James also to have my 8 acres of land lying between the first and 2 brook in Plymouth, that part lying above the way to John and that part lying below the way to James, and my executors to have the profits of James’ part until he reaches the age of 21. All my wearing apparel and arms are to be equally divided between John and James, and each to have a feather bed and furniture.

To my four daughters Marcy Cushing, Mary Rickard, Hester Rickard, and Elisabeth Rickard all the residue of my moveable estate equally divided among them, when they are married or of full age, or within one year of my decease, and also my wife’s portion upon her decease or marriage. My Negro man Toby is to serve my wife and heirs for 10 years, then to have his freedom.

Witnesses:                                                                                                                             John Rickard                                     (seal)

John Dyer

John Foster

Ephraim Little Junr.

 

Probated on 20 June 1712, and proved by John Dyer, John Foster, and Ephraim Little Junr.

 

The inventory of the goods, chattels and credits of John Rickard was taken 4 June 1712 by John Dyer, Thomas Faunce, and John Foster, totaled about £421, including a sloop valued at £90, and £60 in cash.

 

* Abstracted by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 3, p. 138-142, from FHL microfilm #0550509.

 

 

Will of John Rickard Sr. of Plympton, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1726) *

In the Name of God amen. This twenty Seventh Day of September in ye year of our Lord one thousand Seven Hundred & twenty Six: I John Rickard Senr. of Plympton in ye County of Plymouth In His Majestys Province of ye Massachusetts Bay In New: England Husbandman, being Sick & weak in Body, but of Perfect mind & memory, Thanks be given unto God; Therefore Calling unto mind ye mortality of my Body, and knowing it is appointed for all men once to dye, Do make & ordain this my Last Will & Testament: That is to Say, Principally & first of all, I give & Recomend my Soul into ye Hands of God that gave it, & my Body I Recomend to ye Earth to be Buried in Decent & Christian manner at ye discretion of my Executor; nothing doubting but at ye generall Resurrection I Shall Receive ye same again by ye almighty Power of God. and as touching Such worldly Estate wherewith it hath Pleased God to bless me in this Life; I Give Demise & dispose of ye same in ye following manner & form: First of all, I Give and Bequeath to my two Sons John & Joseph Rickard all my Proper Right in ye Sheep folds lying in Plympton in ye County of Plymouth. Item I give to my Granddaughter Mary Rickard wife to Giles Rickard one Large Book title ye Explication of ye ten Comandments. Item, I give to my Daughter Mary Eddy one Large bread grater, & one Book titled ye Blessedness of ye Death of those that die in ye Lord; Item, I give to my Daughter Lediah Tilson one Book title Wigglesworths verses, & one Small Bible; Item, I give to my Daughter Mercy Tilson one Large Bible. Item: I give to my Daughter Johanna Donham one Book title how to keep ye Heart. Item, I give to my Grand Child Samuel Ransome one Book title ye true Watch & Rule of Life. Item I give to my Daughter Rebeckah Pratt one Iron Pott, Called ye middle Pott. Item, I give to my Grandson James Rickard one Sword. Item, I give to my Grandson John Rickard Son to Joseph Rickard one Gun, and to my Grandson Joseph Rickard Son to Joseph Rickard I give one Cutlass. Item, I give to Deborah Rickard Daughter to Joseph Rickard one Small Book title ye Body of Death anatomized; all which Legacys I order to be distributed after my Wifes decease; and I Constitute make & ordain my dearly beloved wife & my Son Joseph Rickard my Executors of this my Last Will & Testament, and what Estate may be found not disposed of in this my Will Shall after my Wifes decease be divided Equally amongst my Daughters & my Grandson Ransome, and I do hereby utterly disallow, Revoke & disanul all & Every other former Testaments, Wills, Legacys & Bequests, and Executors, by me in any ways before named, Willed & Bequeathed; Ratifying & Confirming this & no other to be my Last Will & Testament. In Wittness whereof I have hereunto Sett my Hand & Seal ye Day & year above written

Signed, Seal, Published Pronounced

& declared by ye Said John Rickard

as His Last Will & Testament                                                                                          John Rickard                     (seal)

In ye Presence of us ye Subscribers

Samuel Rickard Junr.

Benjamin Rickard

John Bell

 

Probated on 7 Nov. 1726, and proved by Samuel Rickard Junr, Benjamin Rickard, and John Bell, of Plympton.

Letters of Administration granted on 12 Jan. 1726 [27] to ____ Rickard, Relict widdow of Sd deceased, and Joseph Rickard, one of ye sons, & Executors in ye same will named.

 

The inventory of John Rickard, late of Plympton, was appraised by Benony Lucas, James Harlow, and Isaac Cushman Junr., and totaled £67.16.10.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 5, p. 251-252, from FHL microfilm #0550511.

 

 

Will of Jonathan Rickard of Plympton, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1785) *

In the name of God amen—I Jonathan Rickard of Plymton in the County of Plymouth & Commonwealth of Massachusetts in new England yeoman being weak in body but of perfect mind & memory thanks be Given unto God therefor, Calling unto mind the mortality of my body & knowing that it is appointed for all men once to die, do make and ordain this my Last will & testament, and desire it to be Recieved by all as Such, that is to say principally & first of all, I Give & Recommend my Soul into the hands of God that Gave it, and my body I Recommend to the Earth to be buried in decent Christian burial at the discretion of my Executor hereafter named nothing doubting but at the General Resurrection I Shall Recieve the same again by the mighty power of God, & as touching such worldly Estate wherewith it hath pleased God to bless me in this Life I Give, demise & dispose of the same in the following manner & form

Imprimis—I Give and bequeath to my Honored mother Hannah Rickard the sum of twenty Six pounds thirteen shillings & four pence to be paid her by my brother Simeon Rickard when and at what time she shall be pleased to Call for the same, nevertheless meaning & intending that at the decease of my Hond. mother the above Sum shall Return back to my brother Simeon again as his property.– Item–I Give to my true and Loving Sister Hannah Rickard my Case of Draws – Item–I Give to my Loving brother Lemuel Rickard my Great Coat

Item– I Give to my kind & Loving brother Simeon Rickard and unto his Heirs & assigns all the Rest of my wearing apparell, and all my farming tools & utensills, and also all the Rest & Residue of my Estate both Real & personal not before disposed of I Give to my brother Simeon Rickard and to his Heirs and assigns forever– and my will is & I do positively order my brother Simeon Rickard to pay all my just debts and funeral Expences. ~

Lastly–I do Constitute make and ordain my trusty friend Elijah Bisbe junr my Sole Executor of this my Last will & testament, and do hereby utterly disallow, Revoke & disanull all & every other former testaments will Legacies Bequests & Executors by me in any ways before named, willed & bequeathed Ratifying & Confirming this & no other to be my Last will & testament In witness whereof I have hereunto Set my hand & Seal this twenty fifth day of February in the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and Eighty five ~

Signed Sealed, published, pronounced and                                                                      his

declared by the said Jonathan Rickard as his                                                 Jonathan  X  Rickard                         (seal)

Last will & testament in the presence of us                                                                    mark

the Subscribers.

                James Harlow

                Melatiah Cobb

                Eleazer  x  Rickard

 

Presented for probate on 2 May 1785 by Elijah Bisbe junr, the Executor therein named, and proved by James Harlow and Melatiah Cobb, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Elijah Bisbe junr, the before named Executor.

 

James Harlow Gentm., Isaiah Cushman yeoman and Gideon Sampson yeoman, all of Plymton, were appointed to appraise the estate of Jonathan Rickard, late of Plymton, yeoman, on 2 May 1785. The Inventory, dated 31 Sept. 1785, totaled £228.8.4, including his homestead & buildings valued at £118, and his fresh meadow & swamp valued at £57.10. Elijah Bisbey, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 3 Oct. 1785.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 29, pp. 287-289, 396-397, from FHL microfilm #0550715.

 

 

Will of Josiah Rickard of Plympton, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1750) *

In the Name of God Amen the seventeenth day of December A.D. 1750. I Josiah Rickard of Plimton in the County of Plimouth in New England Calling to mind the Mortallity of my body, knowing that it is appointed for all men once to die, Do make and ordain this my last will and Testament and principally and first of all I Recomend my Soul unto God that gave it, Trusting in the Merrits of Chrit death and suffering to receive the free pardon of my Sins and my body, I recomend to the Earth to be decently buried at the Discretion of my Execrs. hereafter named, Beleiveing that by the mighty power of God I Shall receive the same again at the General Resurrection, And as touching Such worldly Estate as it hath pleased God to bless me in this life, I Give and Bequeath in the following manner and form, that is to say,

First. I will that all my Just Debts and funeral Charges Shall be paid out of my moveable Estate by my Execrs. hereafternamed.

Item. I Give and Bequeath unto my Well beloved wife Rebecca the Improvement of one third part of all my Estate both Real and moveable so long as she shall remain my widdow.

Item. I Give and Bequeath all my Estate both Real and moveable unto my Children and their heirs and assigns forever (viz) Giles Rickard, Benjamin Rickard David Rickard and Josiah Rickard & Desire Frazier and Deborah Allen to be Equally divided amongst them their heirs and assigns forever Except my said daughters which my will is that my aforesaid daughters shall not have so much of my said Estate in the Division by one third part as my said sons, and also my will is that the Estate that I now bequeath unto my daughter Desire Frazier after her decease Shall Descend unto my Granddaughter Elizabeth Dogget and also my will is that my aforesaid son Benjamin Shall have the Care and Order the Improvement of that part of my Estate hereby Given unto my aforesaid son David for the support of my said son,  And Lastly I do Constitute and appoint my a foresaid sons viz, Giles Rickard and Josiah Rickard Sole Execrs. of this my last will and Testament and Do by these presents utterly disallow and Revoke all other and former will by me before made Ratiefieing and Confirming this and no other will to be my last will & Testament  In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and Sealed the day and year above written—

Signed Sealed published & pronounced and

Declared by the said Josiah Rickard

as his last will and Testament in presents of                                                                 Josiah Rickard                  (seal)

of us the Subscribers.                          Josiah Perkins

                                                                Isaac Lobdel

                                                                John Perkins

 

Probated on 4 Feb. 1765, and probed by Josiah Perkins, Isaac Lobdell and John Perkins, the witnesses. Letters of Administration granted to Giles Rickard and Josiah Rickard, the Executors, on 4 Feb. 1765.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Mr Josiah Rickard, late of Plimton, was appraised on 22 May 1765 by Ebenezer Soule, Isaac Bonney, and Amos Fuller, and totaled £312.15.9, including his real estate valued at £230.10.8. The Executors gave their oath to the inventory on 22 May 1765.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 19, pp. 160-161, 229, from FHL microfilm #0550711.

 

 

Will of Samuel Rickard of Plympton, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1754) *

                                                In the Name of God, Amen. –

The thirteenth day of May one thousand, seven hundred & fifty four,—I Samuel Rickard of Plimton in the county of Plymouth in New-England yeoman, being weak of body but of perfect mind and memory, Thanks be given unto God,– therefor. and calling to mind the mortality of my body, knowing that it is appointed for all men once to dye, do make and ordain this my last will and testament. That is to say, principally & first of all I give and recomend my soul into the hands of God that gave it, and my body I recomend to the earth to be buried in a decent, christian burial, at the discretion of my executor, nothing doubting but at the general resurrection I shall receive the same again by the mighty power of God, and as touching such worldly estate as it hath pleased God to bless me with in this life, I give and dispose of, in the following maner.

                Imprs. I give and bequeath unto my well beloved wife Rachel, one good feather bed & furniture, with all other household goods sufficient for house-keeping.

                Item. I give & bequeath unto my four sons viz, Lemuel Rickard, Samuel Rickard, Theophilus Rickard, & Lazarus Rickard, their heirs and assigns forever, all the remaining part of my moveable estate to be equally divided between them, together with my right in the saw-mill at Lakenham. ~

                Item. I give and bequeath unto my daughter Elizabeth, twenty pounds.

                Item, I give and bequeath unto my daughter Rachel, twenty pounds.

                Item, I give and bequeath unto my daughter Rebeccah, twenty pounds.

And also my will is that my four sons before mentioned shall pay unto my daughters before-mentioned the several sums herein given out of my estate, in equal proportion. – And also my will is that my said sons shall have the liberty to pay the legacies in house-hold-goods, and not be obliged to make payment unto my daughters arrive at the age of twenty one years or time of marriage, also my will is that my just debts shall be paid by my four sons in equal proportion. ~

                Lastly, I do appoint my son Lemuel Rickard sole executor of this my last will and testament. and I do hereby utterly disallow, revoke, & disanul, all other wills before by me made, confirming this, and no other to be my last will and testament. Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand, & seal, the day and year above-written.

Signed, sealed, published, pronounced, & declared,

by the said Samuel Rickard, as his last will and                                                           Samuel Rickard                (seal)

testament, in the presence of us the subscribers.

James Harlow, James Fuller, & Josiah Perkins.

 

Presented for probate on 5 Sept. 1768 by Theophilus Rickard, of Plimton, yeoman, the executor therein named being dead, and proved by Amos Fuller and Josiah Perkins, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration cum testament annexo were granted to Theophilus Rickard on 5 Sept. 1768.

 

The Inventory of the estate of mr. Samuel Rickard, late of Plimton, was appraised on 16 Sept. 1768 by Josiah Perkins, Silvanus Donham, and Amos Fuller, and totaled £121.5.1, including livestock, but no real estate. Theophilus Rickard, the administrator, gave his oath to the inventory on 30 Sept. 1768.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 20, p. 117-118, from FHL microfilm #0550711.

 

 

Will of Samuel Rickard of Middleborough, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1784) *

In the name of God Amen—February ye 6th 1784 – I Samuel Rickard of Middleborough in the County of Plymouth & Commonwealth of Massachusetts yeoman being weak in body, but of a disposing mind & memory, thanks be Given to God therefor, Calling unto mind the mortality of my body & knowing that it is appointed for all men once to die do make & ordain this my Last will & testament, that is to say principally & first of all, I Give & Recommend my Soul into the hands of God that Gave it & my body I Recommend to the Earth to be buried in a decent Christian burial at the discretion of my Executor, nothing doubting but at the General Resurrection I shall Recieve the same again by the almighty power of God & as touching such worldly Estate wherewith it hath pleased God to bless me in this Life I do Give, demise & dispose of the same in the following manner & form vizt.–

Imprimis—I Give & bequeath to Zeruiah Rickard my well beloved wife the improvement of one third part of all my Real & Personal Estate during her natural Life

Secondly—I Give & bequeath to my four Sons vizt. Samuel Rickard & Israel Rickard Abner Rickard & Calvin Rickard all my Real & the other two thirds of my Personal Estate to be equally divided among them after my Just debts & funeral Charges are all paid; to them their heirs & assigns forever ~

Thirdly—I Give & bequeath to my daughter Ellis Reed five shillings to be paid her after my decease by my Executor, whom I shall hereafter appoint. ~

Fourthly—I Give & bequeath to my Other five daughters vizt. Chloe Tinkham, Molly Holmes, Deborah Rickard, Hannah Caswell & Lydia Rickard, to each of them or their heirs a three year old heifer or the value thereof in money in three years after my decease Said heifers to be equally paid by my three youngest sons, vizt. Israel, Abner & Calvin –

Lastly—I do appoint my Son Samuel Rickard above named Sole Executor of this my Last will & testament, and I do hereby utterly disallow, Revoke & disannull all and every former testaments, wills, Legacies & bequests & Executors by me in any wise before named, willed & bequested, Ratifying this & no other to be my Last will & testament. In witness whereof I have hereunto Set my hand & Seal the day & year above written

Signed Sealed, published, pronounced &                                                                                       his

declared by the sd Samuel Rickard as his                                                                        Samuel  S.  Rickard           (seal)

Last will & testament in presence of us                                                                                          mark

the Subscribers

                Elijah Alden

                Elijah Hackett

                Rufus Alden

 

Presented for probate on 1 March 1784 by Samuel Rickard, the Executor therein named, and proved by Elijah Alden, Elijah Hackett and Rufus Alden, the witnesses thereto Subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Samuel Rickard, the before named Executor.

 

Joshua White esqr, Zadock Leonard Gentm. and Isaac Tomson yeoman, all of Middlebo, were appointed to appraise the estate of Samuel Rickard, late of Middlebo, yeoman, on 1 March 1784. The Inventory, dated 8 March 1784, totaled £326.3.11, including his farm and buildings valued at £275. Saml. Rickard, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 8 Oct. 1793.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 29, p. 109-111, from FHL microfilm #0550715, and Vol. 33, p. 436.

 

 

Will of William Rickard of Plymouth, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1766) *

                                                In the Name of God, Amen.

William Rickard of Plimouth in the county of Plimouth in New: England shopjoyner, taking into consideration my own frailty & mortality, especially considering the weak state of my body, tho’ blessed be God am of a sound disposing mind & memory, think it my duty to dispose of that worldly estate God hath blessed me with, do hereby make & ordain this my last will & testament as follows, hereby revoking all other or former wills by me made. First, I give & recommend my precious Soul into the hands of God, hoping for acceptance with him thro’ the merits of Jesus Christ alone, my body I commit to the dust to be decently buried at the discretion of my Executor hereafternamed not doubting of it’s being raisd. again at the great day, & my will is that after my just debts & funeral charges are paid the rest of my estate be disposd. off as follows.

Imprimis, I give to my dear & loving wife Martha Rickard, after my just debts & funeral charges are paid the one half part of all my personal estate to her & her heirs forever, as also I give to my said wife the whole use & improvement of all my real estate during her continuance as my widdow, or to the time of her second marriage, then in case she should marry again, then from the time of her second marriage the use & improvement of one third of my real estate during her life & this I give to my said wife as her full right of dower or power of thirds in my said estate. ~

2. Considering the needy circumstances of my honrd. Mother I give & bequeath to her the use & improvement of all the rest of my estate, to be usd. for her comfort & relief in her desolate state of widdowhood as she shall think best, that is to say, real or personal estate. –

3. Whatever of my personal estate shall be left together with all my real estate that shall be left after the decease of my mother & wife, I give to the children of my brothers James Rickard, decd. & to the children of my brother John Rickard, that is to say the one half of said estate to the children of my brother James Rickard to them or their heirs forever, & the other moiety or half to the children of my brother John Rickard to them & their heirs forever. And further my will is & its my true intent & meaning that what of my estate either real or personal as shall be found at the decease of my honrd. mother the improvement of which I have given her during her life shall at her decease be divided, the one half thereof to the heirs of my sd. brother James Rickard, & the other half thereof to the heirs of my sd. brother John Rickard. ~

It is also my will that at the decease of my wife, if she dies before she marries again, that my whole real estate shall then be equally divided the one half to the children of my brother James & their heirs, & the other half to the children of my brother John & their heirs, & if any part of my real estate be in the hands of my mother, as two thirds of it will in case my wife should marry again before my mother,s decease the sd. real estate be divided between the children of sd. John & James & their heirs in equal halves at my wife,s decease & my mother,s Right to the improvement of the real estate shall cease in case she survives my wife, that so the whole of the real estate may be settled.

And finally I do constitute & appoint my deal & loving wife sole executrix of this my last will & testament, hereby revoking all other & former wills, ratyfying & confirming this to be my last will & testament. Witness my hand & seal this fifteenth day of August An.Dom. 1766.

Signed, sealed, published & declared                                                                              William Rickard                               (seal)

to be his last will & testament

in Presence of.

John Russell

Benjamin Churchill

Thomas Foster

 

Presented for probate on 8 Sept. 1766 by Martha Rickard, of Plimo. widdow, the Executrix therein named, and proved by Thomas Foster Esqr. and Mr. John Russell, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Martha Rickard, the Executrix.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of William Rickard, late of Plimouth, was appraised on 3 Oct. 1766 by Thomas Foster, Ezra Allen, and John Russell, and totaled £371.5.1, including his dwelling house and lot valued at £120, half the Schooner Betty valued at £126.13.4, and two shops valued at £27. Martha Rickard, the Executrix, gave her oath to the inventory.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 19, pp. 392-393, 405, from FHL microfilm #0550711.

 

 

Will of Benjamin Rider of Plymouth, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1773) *

In the Name of God Amen I Benjamin Rider of Plymouth in the County of Plymouth & Province of the Massachusetts Bay in New England Yeoman being far Stricken in Years & knowing it to be Appointed to all Men Once to die (though now being in Bodily Health in perfect Mind & Memory do Appoint & Ordain this to be my last Will & Testament And first of all I bequeth my Soul into the Hands of Almighty God that gave it hoping thro the merits of Jesus Christ my Saviour to receive the free Pardon of all my Sins My Body I commit to the Earth to be decently Buried after my decease believing by the mighty Power of God to receive the Same at the General Resurrection And as to my worldly estate which God in his Providence hath endowed me withal I Give & dispose of in manner following ~

Imp: Having already given to my Son Benjamin what I tho’t proper for his Portion I now Give & Bequeath to him five Shillings

Item I Give & Bequeath to my Son William one third Part of all my Real Estate Viz my Homsted including my fatting Pasture which I bought of Israel Tupper also my out Lands & Meadows Viz my Salt Meadow & Cottens Lott & Lott I have in Partnership with Sylvenus Bartlet bought of Mr. Packer & a Peice of Cedar Swamp lying in Plimton & a Peice of Meadow at Eal River & my Wood Lot I bought of Drew & a Wood Lot on Pine Hills I bought of Mr. Packer the one third part of my above expressed real Estate together with the whole of my Buildings now Standing upon Sd. Farm ~

Item I give & Bequeath to my Grandson Amos Rider one third Part of the above mentioned real Estate & it is my Will that my Said Grandson pay out of the Same Thirteen Shillings & Eight Pence to my Daughter Mary Packer –

Item I Give & Bequeath to my Grandson James Rider one third part of my Real Estate & it is my Will my Sd. Grandson should Pay out of the Same Twenty Pounds to his Sister Bethia Johnson

Item I Give to my Son William all my Utensils of Farming and My Wearing Apparel & it is my Will that my Sd. Son Willm. Should Pay out to his Sister mary Packer thirteen Pounds Six & Eight pence

Item It is my Will with respect to my Daughter Hanner (she being unable to provide for herself) that my above Sd. Son William & Grand Sons Amos & James should do their equal Parts for her Maintainance & Pay to that Sister of hers which she Chuseth to live with & if the above Sd. Parties refuse to make Sattisfaction to the Person that has the Care of her then the Sd. Person providing for her shall get her Recompence out of the Premisses ~

Item It is my Will that in case my before mentioned Grand Chilldren Viz Amos & James Bethiah should have no Heirs that what I have bequeathd to them should at their decease return back & be eqully divided among the other Heirs Viz William Lydia Abigail Elizabeth Mary & Sarah ~

Item It is my Will that my five Daughters Viz Lydia Abigail Elizabeth Mary & Sarah Should be Equal Shares in whatsoever I leave behind me at my decease viz in Notes of Hand Bonds Book Debts Moneys with my Stock Cattle & Indoor Goods House furnature of all kinds &cc and it is my Will that the above Sd Notes Bonds Moneys &cc be commited to the Custody of Mr James Clark at my decease in order to be divided among my above Sd. Daughters as above expressd ~

Finaly I do hereby appoint & ordain my abovesaid Son William & Grandsons Amos & James to be Sole Executors of this my last Will & Testament they paying my funeral Charges & Lawfull Debts In Testamony Whereof I hereunto Set my Hand & Seal this Twenty first day of July Anno Domini 1773

Signed Sealed & Declared

In Presence of                                                                                                                      Benjamin Rider                                (seal)

Ivory Hovey

John Blackmer

Josiah Clark

 

Presented for probate on 3 April 1775 by William Rider, Amos Rider and James Rider, the Executors therein named, and proved by John Blackmer and Josiah Clark, two of the Witnesses thereto Subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to William Rider, Amos Rider and James Rider, the before named Executors.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Mr. Benjamin Rider, late of Plymouth, was appraised on 6 Apr. 1775 by John Blackmer, Silvanus Bartlett and Stephen Doten, his personal estate and buildings totaled £229.10.5, his real estate not totaled, but his homestead land valued at £300, and several other parcels. William Rider and Amos Rider, the Executors, gave their oath to the inventory on 4 Dec. 1775.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 24, pp. 32-33, 56-57, from FHL microfilm #0550713.

 

 

Will of Samuel Rider of Plymouth, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1714) *

In the name of God amen I Samuel Rider of ye Town & County of Plimouth in new England yeoman Being under many infirmitys of Body but of a Sound & disposing mind & memory through ye mercy of God to me Do make & ordaine this my last Will & Testament as followeth viz. I Do in ye first Place Comitt my Immortall Soul to God yt gave it Intirely trusting in ye meritts of Jesus Christ, & my frail Body to ye Dust to be decently Buried according to ye Discretion of my Executrix, & as to what Temporall Estate I shall leave at my Decease I Dispose of ye same as followeth –

Imprimis I Give & Bequeath to my son William Rider his heirs & assignes forever, all yt my sixty acre Lott at or near a place Called moreys holes having by Deed conveyed all ye rest of my Lands & reall Estate to my two Sons Samuel and Benjamin . . . . .

Item: I Give & Bequeath unto my Dear wife Lydia Rider (whom I also Constitute Sole Executrix of this my last will & Testament) the whole of my morall Estate not already disposed of during her naturall Life & at her Decease to be Distributed in Such Proportion as She Shall See Cause among my Six Daughters Hannah, Sarah, Lydia, Mary, Elisabeth and Abigail: And whereas in this my last will & Testament: I have Bequeathed nothing to Sundry of my Children the Reasons are as followeth viz. as To my Sons John, Samuel, Benjamin, & my Daughter Mercy, I have done Competently for them in my life Time, as To my son Joseph he went when young To his uncle who has done for him Considerably, and as to Josiah I have ordered for him five pounds to be paid by Samuel & Benjamin & he also is going to a trade, & for these Reasons I think it Just not to make any Bequest unto them. And I Do by these presents Revoke & make null & void all former wills & Testaments By me heretofore made ratifying allowing & Confirming this & no other as my last will & Testament and In witness hereof have hereunto Sett my hand & seal ye Seventh Day of Aprill anno Dom: one thousand seven hundred & fourteen                                                                                                                                                                   his

Signed Sealed & declared to be                                                                                                        Samuel   3   Rider

his last will & Testament                                                                                                                                  mark

In presence of us . . . ||

Ephraim Little

Thomas Clarke Junr.

Josiah Morton

PlymSs: On ye 23d day of September 1715 || Mr. Ephraim Little Thomas Clarke Junr. & Josiah Morton made oath yt they Say ye abovesd Samuel Rider Signe & Seal ye above written Instrument & heard him declare it was his last will & Testament & that he was then of a Disposing mind & memory to ye best of their knowledge                                                                                                                                          Before me Nathaniel Thomas Judge of Probate

 

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 3, p. 377-378, from FHL microfilm #0550509.

 

 

Will of Samuel Rider of Plymouth, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1803) *

  I, Samuel Rider of Plymouth in the County of Plymouth yeoman, being sick of body, but of sound memory, thanks be to God for the same, and being penitently sorry for my past sins, and most humbly desiring forgiveness for the same, I give & commit my soul to the God that made it, hoping thro’ the merits of Jesus Christ to be saved: and calling to mind my temporal estate, do make and declare this for my last will & testament in manner & form following that is to say. ~

First – I would that all my debts which I of right owe to any person, together with my funeral charges be paid within a convenient time after my decease, by my Executor hereafter named.~

  I Give and bequeath unto my well beloved wife Jane Rider, all my Personal Estate, to her own disposal, also I do give & bequeath unto my said wife, the improvement of all my Real Estate, after my debts & funeral charges, and expence of settling my estate are paid, so long as she remains my widow. And after her decease, or not remaining my widow, I do give my Real Estate in manner & form following, that is to say ~

  I do Give & bequeath unto my Son George Rider, the one half of my wood Lot. ~

  I do Give & bequeath unto my other two sons, Samuel Rider & Ezekiel Rider, all the rest of my real estate in equal halves, they paying my debts & funeral charges, and they also paying to my two daughters Lucy Rider & Sarah B. Rider Thirty Dollars, each, within a convenient time after they come in possession of the same. –

Also – I Give to my Grandson Caleb Battles, a Calf, two months old, to be delivered from my Stock.

And, I do nominate my Son Samuel Rider, to be Executor to this my last will & testament.— Also, it is to be understood, that, my two sons Samuel & Ezekiel shall keep the fence in repair, so that their mother may improve the lands, also, if she should be in want, they are to help her.— In Witness whereof, I have hereunto set my hand & Seal this 26th. day of December 1803. ~

Signed in the presence of

        Thomas Morton junr                                                                                                   Samuel Ryder                    (seal)

        Nathl. W. Leonard

        Nathan Whiting

 

Presented for probate on 7 Feb. 1804 by Saml. Ryder, the Executor therein named, and proved by Thos. Morton jr. & Nathan Whiting, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted unto Saml. Ryder, ye. before named Executor.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 38, p. 514-516, from FHL microfilm #0550720.

 

 

Will of Samuel Rider of West Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1832) *

In the name of God Amen. I Samuel Rider of West Bridgewater in the County of Plymouth considering the uncertainty of this mortal life and being of sound mind and memory blessed be Almighty God for the same do make and publish this my last will and testament in manner and form following that is to say, First I give and bequeath unto my beloved wife Anna Rider the improvement of one half of my real estate during her natureal life with a priviledge of cutting wood and timber for her use and comfort togather with one half of my farming tools and the whole of my chaise with all of my indoor moveables also all my dues on accounts, Notes and Bank stock, she paying my honest debts provided however if my said wife should marry then in that case the above priviledges are to cease and determine, I do also give to my daughter Eliza Ann Rider after the decease of my wife (so long as she shall remain unmarried) the use of one front chamber in my dwelling house with a privilege in the Cellar oven and well also to house wood in a back chamber with a privilege to pass to and from the same. I also give to my sons William Rider Joshua Rider and George Dunham Rider and my daughter Eliza Ann after the decease or marriage of my wife all the remainder of my real and personal estate of whatever name or nature provided however if either of the four last named children should die without lawfull issue then my will is that my son Lewis Rider should share said estate with the survivors. It is further understood if my decease should take place before the sixteenth day of February which shall be in year of our Lord Eighteen hundred and forty, then in that case my wife is to have and improve the remaining half of my Real Estate farming tools &c untill said sixteenth day of February in the year aforesaid. My other children not named in this instrument viz Samuel anad Polly I have otherwise provided for. And I hereby appoint my son William Rider my sole executor of this my last will and testament hereby revoking all former wills by me made.

                In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this twelfth day of April in the year of our Lord Eighteen hundred and thirty two –

                Signed sealed published and declared by the above named Samuel Rider to be his last will and testament in the presence of us who have hereunto subscribed our names as witnesses in the presence of the testator

                Anna Rider Jr                                                                                                       Samuel Rider                     (seal)

                James Bates

                Wm Colwell

 

Presented for probate on the first Tuesday of July, 1845, by William Rider, the Executor therein named, and proved by William Colwell, one of the witnesses.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 87, p. 235-237, from FHL microfilm #0555638.

 

 

Will of Andrew Ring of Plymouth, Colony of New Plymouth (1691) *

The Last Will and Testament of Andrew Ring of Plimouth. I Andrew Ring Being now stricken in years & weak in Body But of disposing mind and memory Not Knowing how near ye day of my Death may be Do make this my Last Will and Testament Hereby Revoaking all former Wils. Imprimis I Bequeath my Soul into ye hands of God Who made it And my Body to ye Earth by decent Burial in hopes of a joyfull Resurrection to Eternall Life by ye Merrits of Jesus Christ my onely Lord & Redeemer And as for ye worldly Estate which God hath Given me my Will is it be disposed of as followeth, I Give to my Eldest Son William my now Dwelling house & the Land and housing adjoyning thereunto Excepting yt Portion I have taken out of it to Give to my son Eliezer as hereafter Expressed Also I Give to my Son William my twelve acres of upland lying in ye New fields and five acres lying at Lout Swamp Both within the Township of Plimouth Also to my son William I Give four acres of meadow Lying at Southers marsh at ye Easte End of ye Cedar Swamp and three acres of meadow in ye Cove and two acres of meadow at ye oaks and one acre of meadow at Doteys Meadow All Which meadows are within ye Township of Plimouth. Also I Give to my son William one hundred acres of upland and Eight acres of meadow which I have Lying within the Township of Middleborough All ye above mentioned Lands Whether uplands or meadows Lying and being Either in the Town of Plimouth or Middleborough I do hereby freely and absolutely Give and Bequeath to my said Son William his heirs and assigns for Ever. Also to my Son William I Give my Pough and Plowirons all ye iron ware in ye cart house Gears Chains Copples Staple of ye Cop yoak working tooles Augurs Gouges Spades handsaws axes Hoes Hamer & such like Also to my Son William I Give all ye Corne and Provision Layd in for ye year. Moreover I Give to my Son Eliezer That Portion of Land adjoyning to his house Containing about a third part of an acre and two acres of upland and Swamp lying near thereunto Also I Give to my Son Eliezer four acres of Meadow Lying at Polipody Cove Also I Give to my son Eliezer my twenty acre lot of upland and my five and twenty acre Lot of upland Lying in ye Township of Middleborough this homestead now Exprest and ye Lands uplands and meadows in ye Townships Either of Plimouth or Middleborough I do hereby freely and absolutely Give and Bequeath to my said Son Eliezer his heirs and assigns for Ever Also I Give my Land at Middleborough Commonly Called and known by ye name of ye Sixteen shilling Purchase to my Grandson John Mayo Son to my Daughter Elizabeth Mayo Late of Eastham Deceased. My Will further is that in Case sd John Mayo dye before he Come of age or without Lawfull Issue that then sd Land or ye value of it be Given to his Surviving Sisters ye Daughters of my said Daughter Elizabeth Mayo By my Executor hereafter named Also I Give my Cow Called Short Bobtaild Cow to my Grandson Andrew Ring Son of my Son Eliezer also I Give my heiffer to my Grand Daughter Mary Morton Daughter of my Daughter Mary Morton Also my will is that all my debts be paid out of my moveables before division of them further my will is that all ye Rest of my Estate in moveables of any sort Whatsoever within doores or without Be Equally and justly divided Betwixt my Son Eliezer and my three Daughters Mary Deborah and Susanna Also I do make and Constitute my son William Ring Sole Executor of this my Last Will and testament also I do hereby desire and appoint my loving friends Deacon Thomas Faunce and Ephraim Morton junr to be overseers of this my Will In Witness Whereof I have hereunto set my hand and Seal this fourteenth day of December one thousand Six hundred ninety and one.

Signed Sealed and Declared by Andrew Ring to be his    —    Andrew Ring                       (seal)

Last Will and Testament In ye presence of us

John Cotton

James Cole

Elizbeth Dotey

 

Mr John Cotton and James Cole two of ye Witnesses here named appeared on ye 22th day of March 1692/3 Before William Bradford Esqr judge &c and made oath in Plimouth that they were present and Saw and heard Andrew Ring ye Testator afore named Sign Seal and Declare the above & within Written to be his last will & testament and that to ye best of their judgment he was of sound & disposing mind & memory when he did ye same and yt they saw Elizabeth Dotey now deceased Subscribe with ym as a witness also.

 

William Ring, the Executor, was granted letters of administration on 22 Mar. 1692/3.

 

An Inventory of ye Estate of Andrew Ring Late of Plimouth deceased Taken & apprised by us whose names are hereunto Subscribed on ye 18th day of March 1692/3. [Not totaled]

                                                                                                                                Ephraim Morton junr

                                                                                                                                Thomas Faunce

 

William Ring ye Executor of ye last Will & Testament of his late father Andrew Ring deceased made oath Before William Bradford Esqr in Plimouth ye 4th day of Aprill 1693 that ye above Written is a true Inventory of ye Estate vizt Goods & Chattels of sd Deceased So far as he knoweth and that if more shall come to his knowledge he Will Discover it                      Attest Saml Sprague Register

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 1, p. 163-164, from FHL microfilm #0550708.

 

 

Will of Samuel Ring of Kingston, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1768) *

                                                In the Name of God, Amen,

The third day of May one thousand, seven hundred, & sixty eight. ~

I Samuel Ring of Kingston in the county of Plymouth in New-England, being weakly & sick, but of disposing mind & memory, & calling to mind the mortality of my body, knowing that it is appointed for all men once to die, do make & ordain this my last will & testament, that is to say, First & principally I recomend my soul into the hands of God that gave it trusting thro’ the death & suffering of Jesus Christ to receive the free & full pardon of all my sins & inherit glory, & my body I recomend to the earth to be decently buried at the discretion of my executor, hereafter named, believing at the general resurrection I shall receive the same again by the mighty power of God. and as touching such worldly estate as it hath pleasd. God to bless me with in this life, I give & dispose of in the followg. maner & form.

                Item, I give & bequeath unto my welbeloved wife Ruth Ring the use & improvement of one half of my house, & out-houses & Lands, so long as she shall remain my widdow. Also I give unto my wife one half of my personal estate free, & clear, to her own dispose. ~

                Item, I give & bequeath unto my son George Ring his heirs & assigns forever twenty shillings in furnace ware, together with what I have heretofore given him.

                Item, I give & bequeath unto my three daughters namely Grace Bradford, the wife of Samuel Bradford, Lidia Ripley the wife of William Ripley Jr. Elizabeth Hunt, the wife of Samuel Hunt the other half of my personal estate equally to be divided between ‘em.

                Item, I give & bequeath unto my sons Francis Ring & Eliphaz Ring, their heirs & assigns forever, the houses & Lands whereon I now dwell together with out-lands & meadow & cedar swamps to be equally divided between them, and furthermore my will is that my two sons pay my just debts & funeral charges out of what I have above given them. And I do by these presents constitute & appoint my welbeloved sons Francis Ring & Eliphaz Ring joint executors of this my Last will & testament, & do by these presents revoke & disanul all wills by me before made, ratifying & confirming this and no other, to be my Last will & testament. In testimony whereof I have signed & sealed, the day & year above-written.

Signed sealed, published, pronounced, & declard.                                                        Samuel Ring                      (seal)

by the sd. Samuel Ring to be his Last will & testamt.

in presence of us,  Ebenr. Dean, John Fuller, John Bradford. ~

 

Presented for probate on 6 June 1768 by Francis Ring and Eliphaz Ring, the Executors therein named, and proved by John Fuller and John Bradford, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Francis Ring and Eliphaz Ring, the Executors, with John Fuller, all of Kingston, and John Bradford, of Plimton gent. as sureties.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 20, p. 79-80, from FHL microfilm #0550711.

 

 

Will of Jonathan Ripley of Halifax, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1772) *

                                                In the Name of GOD, Amen.

I Jonathan Ripley of Hallifax in the county of Plymouth in New England founder, being sensible of my frailty and mortality, and being infirm of body but of sound and disposing mind and memory do make and ordain this to be my last will and testament. and first I comit my soul to GOD who gave it when he shall please to call for it, and my body to the dust to be decently buried at the discretion of my executor hereafter-mentioned. and touching my temporal estate wherewith GOD hath blessed me with, I give, devise, bequeath and dispose of in the following manner, viz. – Imprimis, I give and bequeath unto my well beloved wife Hannah Ripley the use and improvement of one third part of all my real estate of housings lands and buildings during her natural life, and one third part of all my movables indoors & outdoors, except my wearing aparel to be delivered her before the debts are paid. ~ ~

   Item. I give and bequeath unto my two sons Perez & Jonathan, my pew in Hallifax meeting house, equally betwixt them, to them & their heirs forever.

   Item. I give and bequeath unto my three sons Perez, Jonathan & Silvanus all my real estate of lands & buildings in Hallifax, and my right in Plimton old furnace, two fifth parts of all my real estate to Perez, and two fifth parts of it to Jonathan, and one fifth to Silvanus, to them their heirs & assigns forever, reserving to my wife the use & improvement of one third part of my real estate during her natural life. – Item, I give & bequeath unto my two sons Perez & Jonathan all my wearing-aparel, to be equally divided betwixt them.

   Item, I give & bequeath unto my three daughters Abigail Sturtevant the wife of Caleb Sturtevant, Rebeccah Dunbar the wife of Daniel Dunbar, & Hannah Fuller the wife of Thomas Fuller, two third parts of all my indoors movables to be equally divided betwixt them three, excepting my wearing aparel, and the provisions of all sorts that shall be left at my decease. ~ Item. I give and bequeath unto my three sons Perez, Jonathan & Silvanus, two third parts of all my outdoors movables and also two third parts of all the provision that shall be left at my decease, towards paying my just debts & funeral charges. And it is my will that my three sons Perez, Jonathan & Silvanus shall pay all my just debts & funeral charges out of what I have given them in the same proportion that I have given to them. And lastly I nominate & apoint my son Perez Ripley of Hallifax founder to be my sole executor of this my last will & testament.

In witness whereof I the said Jonathan Ripley have hereunto set my hand and seal this thirtyfirst day of March annoque Domini one thousand, seven hundred & seventy two.

Signed sealed & declared by the sd. Jona. Ripley to be                                                Jonathan Ripley                (seal)

his last will & testament in presence of

                                Noah Cushing

                                Micah Allen

                                Mercy Cushing ~

 

Presented for probate on 7 Sept. 1772 by Perez Ripley, the Executor therein named, and proved by Noah Cushing, Micah Allen, and Mercy Cushing, the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Perez Ripley, the Executor.

 

The Inventory of the estate of Jonathan Ripley, late of Hallifax, was appraised on 29 Oct. 1772 by Noah Cushing, Moses Inglee, and John Waterman, and totaled £435.17.7½, including his real estate valued at £337.6.8. Perez Ripley, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 22 Nov. 1772.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 21, pp. 206-207, 218, from FHL microfilm #0550712.

 

 

Will and Codicil of William P. Ripley of Plymouth, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1836) *

Be it remembered that I William P. Ripley do make and publish, this my last Will & Testament in the manner following viz. I give and bequeath to my beloved wife, the improvement of my Dwelling house in North St. and the furniture for one year after my decease, also one hundred dollars in money to be paid her at my decease & one hundred at the end of one year, also two hundred dollars in furniture at the appraisal at the end of one year. Also the interest of four thousand dollars to be paid her semiannually during her life. I give & bequeath to my son Wm Z. Two thousand dollars advanced to him in April 1827. I give & bequeath to my Daughter Ann Elizabeth March one thousand Dollars advanced to her in July 1835. – Also one thousand dollars more to make her equal to my son – I give & bequeath to my Daughter Betsey Foster Morton two thousand dollars making her equal to my other children, the remainder of my other property to be equally divided between my three children, after the decease of my beloved wife the four thousand dollars she has received the ints. of to be equally divided between my three children.

I nominate & appoint Wm Z. Ripley & Andrew S. March Executors to this my last Will & testament. I authorise my Executors to sell any of my property real & personal that may be for the benefit of my heirs –

   I Witness whereof I hereunto set my hand and seal this twentieth day of September in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred & thirty six

                                                                                                                                                Wm P. Ripley                                     (seal)

Signed sealed & declared by the above testator as his last Will & Testament in presence of us who have hereunto affixed our names at his request & in presence of each other

                                                                                                                                                J. H. Loud

                                                                                                                                                E. L. J. Loud

                                                                                                                                                H. Taylor

 

Be it known that I William P. Ripley of Plymouth in the County of Plymouth, Esquire, being in feeble health but of sound mind, having heretofore made & executed my last Will & Testament in writing, the date of which I do not now recollect as the same is in the hands & keeping of my son in law Andrew S. March who with my son William Z. Ripley are named as Executors thereof, do now make, publish & declare this Instrument to be a codicil to my said last will & Testament and to be taken as part & parcel thereof.

I do give, devise & bequeath to my wife Nancy Ripley & to her heirs & assigns forever all my right, title & interest in & to the Pew in the broad Aisle of the Meeting house of the first Parish in this town which I now occupy with all its furniture books &c. with all my right, title & interest in the bond or bonds which I hold of Josiah Moore & William Sturtevant to give me a title deed thereof meaning & intending to vest in my said Wife & her heirs & Assigns all my right therein & in the bonds aforesaid.

        Any part of my said will inconsistent with this devise & bequest is revoked & annulled but in all other respects I do affirm & confirm the same.

In Testimony whereof I have hereto set my hand this first day of October in the year eighteen hundred & forty two.

                                                                                                                                                Wm. P. Ripley

  Signed, sealed published & declared by the said William P. Ripley as a Codicil to his last will & Testament in presence of us who in his presence & in presence of each other subscribed our names as Witnesses

                                                                                                                                                Jacob H. Loud

                                                                                                                                                Elizabeth L. Loud

                                                                                                                                                Jane B. Gordon

 

Presented for probate on the first Monday of Dec. 1842 by William Z Ripley & Andrew S. March, the Executors therein named, and proved by Jacob H. Loud and E L. J. Loud, two of the witnesses. Letters Testamentary granted to William Z. Ripley and Andrew S. March, the Executors therein named.

 

William Z. Ripley, of Boston, and Andrew S. March, of Roxbury, were granted Letters Testamentary on the Estate of William P. Ripley, late of Plymouth, on 5 Dec. 1842, with Adolphus Davis and James M. Whiton, of Boston, Merchants, as sureties.

John B. Thomas, Timothy Gordon and Johnson Davee, all of Plymouth, were appointed to appraise the estate of William P. Ripley, late of Plymouth, on 5 Dec. 1842.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of William P. Ripley, late of Plymouth, Esquire, was appraised on 1 Feb. 1843, his personal estate valued at $312.22, and his real estate not totaled, but his dwelling house and lot in North Street valued at $3300. Andrew S. March, one of the Executors, gave his oath to the inve nroy on the third Monday of Feb. 1843.

 

Andrew S. March of West Roxbury in the County of Norfolk petitioned to be appointed as Trustee of the $4000 sum set aside for the use of Nancy Ripley, now of Portland, Maine, on the first Tuesday of Apr. 1856, which was granted on 6 May 1856.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 84, p. 618-621, from FHL microfilm #0555267, Vol. 1G, p. 230, p. 85, p. 605-607, and Vol. 98, p. 186-187.

 

 

Will of Benjamin Robbins of Kingston, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1805) *

        In the Name of God amen I Benjamin Robbins of Kingston in the County of Plymouth Yeoman being weak in Body, but of sound & perfect Mind & memory blessed be almighty God for the same do make & publish this my last Will and Testament in manner & form following (that is to say)

First I give and bequeath unto my beloved Wife Esther Robbins all my Estate both Real and personal, goods & Chattels, of what kind & nature soever, she to pay all my just debts, and bring up my Children viz my Daughter Esther Allen my daughter Betsey, my Son Benjamin, my Daughter Sally, my Daughter Nancy & my Son Allen.

Secondly I hereby appoint my beloved Wife Esther Robbins to be my sole Executrix of this my last Will and Testament, hereby revoking all former Wills by me mde –

        In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand & Seal this seventh day of January in the Year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred & five.  1805

signed sealed published & declared

by the above named Benjamin

Robbins to be his last Will & Testament                                                                        Ben Robbins                                      (seal)

in presence of us –

        Elijah Sturtevant

        John Gray junr

        Samual Alexander

 

Presented for probate on 19 Oct. 1805 by Esther Robbins, the Executrix therein named, and proved by John Gray junr. and Samuel Alexander, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of administration were granted to Esther Robbins, the before named Executrix.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 40, p. 279-280, from FHL microfilm #0550901.

 

 

Will and Codicil of William A. Robbins of Kingston, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1871) *

Know all Men by these presents that I William A. Robbins of Kingston in the County of Plymouth and State of Massachusetts, being in ill health but of sound and disposing mind and memory, do make and publish this my last will and testament hereby revoking all former wills by me at any time hereto fore made.

First: I give and devise to my beloved wife Martha Robbins the swamp lot that I purchased of William Gray.

Second. I give and devise to my son Benjamin T. Robbins the woodlot that was my father’s Benjamin Robbins which I purchased of my mother, in consideration of his name.

Third. I give and bequeath to my beloved wife Martha Robbins all my personal estate, and the improvement of the residue of all my real estate of which I shall die seized and possessed, or to which I shall be entitled at the time of my decease after the payment of all my debts and funeral expenses, with the right to take wood from the unimproved land. And if the improvement shall be insufficient for her support, she shall have a right to sell and convey any of said real estate as shall be necessary to supply said deficiency

Fourth. I hereby constitute and appoint my wife Martha Robbins to be sole executrix of this my last will and testament.

In testimony whereof I hereunto set my hand and seal and publish and declare this to be my last will and testament, in the presence of the witnesses named below, this twenty fourth day of October in the year eighteen hundred and seventy one.

                                                                                                                                                W. A. Robbins                   (seal)

Signed, sealed, published and declared by the said William A. Robbins, as and for his last will and testament, in the presence of us, who in his presence and in the presence of each other and at his request have subscribed our names as witnesses hereto.

                                                                                Edward Gray

                                                                                Samuel W. Gray

                                                                                Frances L. Gray

 

I William A. Robbins of Kingston in the County of Plymouth do hereby make this my Codicil to my will dated October twenty fourth eighteen hundred and seventy one.

After the decease of my wife if there should be any of my estate left not disposed of for her support, I give and devise the remainder thereof equally between my two children Benjamin T. Robbins and Lucy W. Robbins to them and their heirs. As for my daughter Rebecca Finney I have heretofore given her all I intend her to have of my estate.

                In testimony whereof I hereunto set my hand and seal, and publish and declare this to be a codicil to my last will & testament, this seventeenth day of October eighteen hundred and seventy six.

                                                                                                                                                W. A. Robbins.                  (seal)

Signed, sealed, published and declared by the said William A. Robbins as and for his first codicil to his last Will & Testament in the presence of us, who in his presence & in the presence of each other & at his request have subscribed our names as witnesses hereto.

Edward Gray.   Samuel W. Gray.   Frances L. Gray.

 

Presented for probate on the second Monday of May 1877 by Martha Robbins, of Kingston, with Francis L. Gray of Kingston and Ella F. Brown of Boston as sureties. Letters Testamentary were granted to Martha Robbins, of Kingston, on 14 May 1877.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 142, p. 248-249, from FHL microfilm #0556649, and Vol. 133, p. 431.

 

 

Will of Jeduthan Robens of Plympton, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1740) *

In The Name of God amen, Jeduthan Robens of Plymton in the County of Plymouth in New England yeoman Being Very Sick But of Sound & Disposeing memory, Thanks be given unto Almighty God for ye same – But Calling to Mind the Mortality of my body And Knowing it is Appointed for all Men Once To Dye Do make and Ordain This my Last Will and Testament.

Imprimis I Will and Bequeath My Soul unto God That Gave it me and my Body to the Dust To be Decently buried at the Discretion of my Executrix hereafter named nothing Doubting but at the Generall Resurection I Shall Receive the same again by the Mighty power of God, and as Touching such worldly Estate wherewith it hath please God To bless me in this life I dispose of in the following manner,:

Item. I Will and Bequeath unto My Well beloved wife Rebecca Robins The Improvement of One Third part of all my Real Estate so Long as She Shall Remain my Widdow and allso the use or Improvement of One third part of my Moveable Estate My Just debts and funerall Charges being first paid out of my said Moveable Estate I doe allso Give unto My said wife The Sum of Fifty pounds, To be Sett Out to her by a Just apprizement Out of my Moveable Estate Valued Equal To Silver money at Twenty Eight Shillings pr. Ounce: To be her own forever I Doe further Will and Bequeath unto my sd wife the Sole Improvement of the Remaining two third parts of my Real Estate Dureing The Naturall Life or Widdowhood of Hourd. Mother Hanah Robens And further my Will is That if my said wife Shall Stand in need of more then the Incomes of the Two third parts of my said Real Estate To Support My Aged Mother abovesaid Agreeable To what I have obliged My selfe by bond to doe for her, Then and in such Case I doe by these presents Authorize and Impower My said wife to make Sale of The One half of my Cedar Swamp I now Own at Bever Damm Swamp That is to Say the One half The Cedar Swamp I now possess That was my Hourd. Father, Jeduthan Robens Deceasd, all which moveable Estate & Improvement of my Lands and the produce of the sd Cedar Swamp, I give unto my sd wife in manner as above Expressd allways provided That She Shall well and Truly fullfill and perform all That I have bound my selfe, and Heirs To performe Towards the Support of my said aged mother in one bond Obligatory Bearing date the fifteenth day of June A.D. 1726. —

Item I Will and Bequeath unto my Loveing Son Eleazer Robens My now Dwelling House, Out houseing and all my Lands both upland and meadow land That I have lying in Plymton aforesd. Between Swan hold River and Dotens Plain and allso Six Acres of Meadow lying in a place Called Swan hold neck in Plymton aforesaid To be Sett out To him by a true measurement at the upper End of My Meadow there; I allso Give unto my said Son My Two acres and a half of meadow that I have lying in Plymton aforesaid at a place Called the Island at the uper South Meadows, I allso give unto my said Son my Cedar Swamp lying in Beaver Damm Swamp, That I purchased of Nathll Thomas of Middleborough all which Houseing Upland & Meadow lands and Cedar Swamp I Give unto my said Son and unto his Heirs and assigns forever After ye Improvement thereof, before Granted To my Loveing wife provided he my said Son or his Heirs Shall pay the following Legacies unto my Children hereafter named, That is to say, unto my Loveing Son Rufus Robens, The Sum of fifty pounds in good bills of Creditt Valued Equal To Silver money at Twenty Eight Shillings pr ounce and to pay ye same to him the sd Rufus when he Shall arrive to the age of twenty one years.

And allso To pay unto my Loveing son Benja Robens the Sum of Fifty pounds The Sum of Fifty pounds in paper Currency Equal To Silver money at twenty Eight Shillings pr ounce and to pay ye same when he the said Benjamin shall arrive to the age of Twenty One years.

And allso pay unto my Loveing Son Ebenezer Robens The Sum of Twenty pounds in bills of Creditt Valued Equal To Silver money at Twenty Eight Shillings pr Ounce as abovesd. And to pay the Same when he my sd Son Ebenezer Shall arrive to the age of Twenty One years; And allso To pay unto my Loveing Daughter Mary Robens The Sum of Thirty pounds in Good bills of Creditt Valued Equal To Silver money at Twenty Eight Shillings pr Ounce and to pay the Same to my sd daughter within four years after he my sd Son Eleazer Shall Come unto ye possession of the Land & Meadows above Granted unto him.

Item I Will and Bequeath unto my Loveing Son James Robens all my Upland and Meadow land That I have lying in Plymton aforesd. in a place Called Swan hold neck, Excepting the Six acres of meadow I have allready Given my Son Eleazer, I allso Give unto my sd Son James my Lott of land lying upon South Meadows plain That I bought of John Jackson and further I give unto my said Son all ye Remaining part of my Cedar Swamp lying in sd Beaver damm Swamp That I have not Disposed of in this Present Will  I allso Give unto My said Son my Grant of Two acres and half of meadow To be taken up in ye Newfound Meadows That I bought of the Heirs of Baruck Jordan Deceas’d, All which upland – Meadow Lands & Cedar Swamp I give unto my said Son And unto his Heirs And Assigns forever Provided he or his Heirs Shall pay unto my Loveing Son Ebenezer Robens The Sum of Thirty Pounds in good bills of Creditt Valued Equal To Silver money at Twenty Eight Shillings pr. Ounce and pay the Same unto him the said Ebenezer when he Shall arrive at the age of Twenty One years.

Item I Give unto my Loveing Daughter Mary Robens as a further Addition To what I have orderd my Son Eleazer to pay unto her The Sum of Twenty pounds in Household Utensills Valued Equal to Silver Money at Twenty Eight Shillings pr. Ounce, I allso Give unto my said daughter Two Cows & half a year & Vantage Stear which she now Calls her own.

Item+ My Will is That all the Residue of my Estate both Real and Personall whatsoever and wheresoever it may be found Shall belong and appertain unto unto my Loveing Son Eleazer Robens his Heirs and assigns forever He or they paying the Severall Legacies Before mentioned That I have in this present Will orderd him or them to pay—

Lastly I Nominate and appoint My Loveing wife Rebecca Robens to be The Sole Executrix of this my Last Will & Testament, Hereby Revokeing all other and former Wills Either written or Verbell by me heretofore made or done Hereby Ratyfieing & Confirming This My Last Will To Remain firm & Inviolable  In Testimony whereof I the aforenamed Jeduthan Robens Have hereunto Sett my Hand and Seal the The Twenty Sixth day of November One Thousand Seven Hundred & fourty 1740

Signed Sealed and Pronounced

and Declared By The said Jeduthan

Robens To be his Last Will & Testamt.

        In presence of us

Joseph Bridgham                                                                                                                 Jeduthan Robens                             (seal)

Abel Crocker

Joseph Lucas

 

Proved on 23 Dec. 1740 by Joseph Bridgham, Abel Crocker and Joseph Lucas, the witnesses.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Jeduthan Robins, late of Plymton, was appraised by Joseph Lucas, Abel Crocker and Abraham Jackson in Mar. 1740[/41], his personal estate totaled £399.4.0, and his real estate totaled £783, including his dwelling house, barn and upland valued at £568. Rebecca Robens, the Executrix, gave her oath to the inventory on 7 Mar. 1740[/41].

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 8, pp. 264-267, 298-299, from FHL microfilm #0551531.

 

 

Will of Gain Robinson of Bridgewater, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1763) *

In the Name of God Amen the 13 day of May 1763. I Gain Robinson of Bridgwater in the county of Plimouth in the New England husbandman being advanced in years & weak of body but of perfect mind & memory thanks be given unto god therefore calling unto mind the mortality of my body & knowing that it is appointed for all men once to die do make & ordain this my last will & testament that is to say principally & first of all I give & recomend my soul into the hands of God that gave it & my body to the earth to be buried in a decent christian burial at the discression of my Executor nothing doubting but at the general resurrection I shall receive the same again by the mighty Power of god & as touching such worldly Estate wherewith it hath pleased God to bless me in this life I give demise and dispose of the same in the following manner & form

Imprs. I give & bequeath to Margaret my beloved wife the use & improvement of my whole farm together with all my moveable Effects both indoor & out during her natural life or wido. hood

Item. I give & bequeath to my son Alexander Robinson the sum of thirteen shillings & four pence which I look upon to be his share out of my Estate with what he has already had –

Item. I give & bequeath to my son Joseph Robinson the sum of thirteen shillings & four pence which I look upon to be his share out of my estate together with what he has already had.

Item. I give & bequeath to my son Gain Robinson the sum of thirteen shillings & four pence which I looke upon to be his share out of my estate together with what he has already had.

Item. I give & bequeath to my son John Robinson the sum of thirteen shillings & four pence which I look upon to be his share out of my Estate together with what he has already had.

Item. I give & bequeath to my daughter Susanah Asken the wife of Christr. Asken the sum of thirteen shillgs. & 4d. which I look upon to be her share out of my Estate with what she has already had.

Item. I give & bequeath to my sons James Robertson & Robert Robinson all my buildings & lands to be equally divided between them James to have the southerly side where his house now stands and Robert to have the north.erly side where my house stands allowing to each one as good a share in the orchard as the other to them their heirs & assigns forever as a good perfect and absolute Estate of Inheritance in fee simple they paying all all my Just debts and funeral charges and all the Legacies mentioned in this my last will and Testament equally alike & I give to Robert my fire Arms.

Item. I give & bequeath to my daughter Betty the wife of William Corbet the sum of four pounds which with what she has already had I look upon to be her Share out of my Estate.

Item I give & bequeath to my daughr. Mary the wife of Richd. Bartlett the sum of six pounds thirteen shillgs & 4d. which I look upon to be her share out of my estate with what she has allready had.

Item. I give & bequeath to my daughr. Martha the wife of Archabel Thomson the sum of four pounds which togethr. with what she has already had I look upon to be her share out of my Estate.

Item. I give & bequeath to my daughter Margaret Robinson the sum of Six pounds thirteen shillings and four pence & I also give her a comfortable maintenance for & so Long as she Shall live a single life & also liberty of living in my dwelling house that length of time.

Item. I give & bequeath to my daughter Jane Robinson the sum of six pounds thirteen shillings & four pence & my will is that after my wifes decease all the moveables that she leaves shall be equally divided between Margret & Jane Robinson.

And I also constitute make & ordain my son James Robinson my sole Exr. of this my last will & testament allowing to him & to my son Robert two full years after my decease to pay the several Legacies heretofore mentioned in & I do hereby utterly disallow revoke & disannul all & every other former Testaments Wills & bequests before named willed & bequeathed ratifying & confirming this & no other to be my last will & Testament In witness whereof I have hereunto Set my hand & seal the day & Year above written. —

Signed, sealed, published, pronounced & declared by the

said Gain Robinson to be his last will and Testament

in the presence of us the Subscribers                                                                               Gain Robinson                                  (seal)

John Orcutt

Mary  X  Orcutt

Susannah Orcutt

 

Presented for probate on 1 Aug. 1763 by James Robinson, the Executor therein named, and proved by John Orcutt, Mary Orcutt, and Susannah Orcutt, the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to James Robinson, the before named Executor.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Mr. Gain Robinson, late of Bridgwater, was appraised on 27 Sept. 1763 by John Orcut, Joseph Keith and Eleazer Whitman, and totaled £463.6.0, including his home farm valued at £315, buildings at £55, and meadow at £10. James Robinson, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 1 Oct. 1763.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 16, pp. 487-488, 509, from FHL microfilm #0551543.

 

 

Will of William Rogers of Plymouth, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1840) *

        In the name of God Amen. I William Rogers of Plymouth in the County of Plymouth, being of sound & disposing mind and memory do hereby make and declare this to be my last Will and testament. I give to my daughter Polly Davis, to my Son Ichabod and to my Son Ellis each the sum of One dollar. I give to each of my grand-children viz. America B. Rogers, Rebecca Rogers & Betsey Rogers Children of my deceased son William each the sum of one dollar.  I give, bequeath & devise the residue of my estate, real and personal to my daughter Nancy B. Rogers and her heirs forever.

                        I Constitute and appoint the said Nancy B. Rogers to be sole executrix of this my last will and testament.

                        In Witness Whereof I the said William Rogers have hereunto set my hand and seal this twenty first day of July A.D. 1840

                                                                                                                                                Wm. Rogers                                       (seal)

        Signed. sealed, published and declared by the above named William Rogers as & for his last will and Testament in the presence of us, who at his request and in his presence & in the presence of each other have subscribed our names as Witnesses thereto.

                                                                                                Nathl. M. Davis

                                                                                                Thomas Hedge

                                                                                                A. G. Goodwin

 

Presented for probate on the second Monday of Aug. 1844 by Nancy B. Rogers, the Executor therein named, and proved by Nathaniel M. Davis and A. G. Goodwin, two of the Witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters Testamentary granted to Nancy B. Rogers, the Executrix therein named.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 86, p. 383-384, from FHL microfilm #0555637.

 

 

Will of Mary Rowland of Hempstead, Queens County, Province of New York (1776) *

I Mary Rowland of the Township of Hempstead in Queens County and in the Province of New York being sick and weak in Body but of sound mind and memory Blessed be God, do this twelfth day of November Anno Domini One thousand seven hundred and seventy six, make and publish this my last Will and Testament in the manner and form following vizt  Imprimis I give and Bequeath unto my Daughter Zorada Rowland, two of my best Feather Beds, six pair of Sheets, four Coverleds, two Bedsteads and the furniture thereunto belonging, two of my best pewter platters, six pewter plates, three table Cloths, six towels all which she may Chuse and my Cupbord and Chest. – Item all the Residue and Remainder of my Estate after my Just Debts and funeral expences are all paid and discharged (excepting the Legacy Ordered for me in my Father Robert Marvin’s Last Will and Testament) I give & Bequeath unto my three Daughters Abigail Thorne, Phebe Wagner and Zorada Rowland equally to be divided amongst them. Item my Will and mind is that the Legacy above mentioned shall be equally divided amongst all my children Marvin Rowland and my Daughters above mentioned provided my said son is a Loyal Subject to his Majesty King George, the Third and a true friend to Government, if he my said Son is otherwise my Will and mind is that the said Legacy shall be equally divided amongst my said Daughters. Lastly I constitute and appoint my two friends Samuel Denton and James Cornwell, both of Herricks in the Township County and Province aforesaid Executors hereof to this my last Will and Testament. In Witness hereof I the said Mary Rowland have hereunto set my hand and fixed my Seal the day and year above written.                                                                                                      Mary Rowland                  (seal)

Signed Sealed published and by the said Mary Rowland pronounced as and for her last Will and Testament in the presence of us. – John Searing, William Hewlett, Emry Hewlett

 

Presented for probate on 27 Nov. 1776, and proved by William Hewlett of said County Yeoman. Letters of Administration were granted to Samuel Denton and James Cornell, the Executors in said will named, on 25 Apr. 1781.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from New York County Probate Vol. 34, p. 216-218, copied from original Libor 34, p. 171-173.

 

 

Will of William Salmon of Southold, Suffolk County, Province of New York (1759) *

In the name of God Amen this 29th of April 1759 I William Salmon of Southold in the County of Suffolk and Province of New York being weak in body but of sound disposing minde and memory thanks be to God therefor and calling to minde the uncertaintis of life and knowing it is appointed for all men once to die do make and ordain this my last Will & Testament  First I Recommend my Soul into the hands of God which gave it and my Body to the Earth to be buried in dessent Christian burial at the discretion of my Executors nothing doubting but I Shall receive the same again by the mighty Power of God and as touching such Worldly Estate wherewith itt hath pleased God to bless me in this life I give and dispose of the same in the following manner and form  Item I give to my Eldest Son Joshua Salmon all my Farming Implyments as Carts Plows Chains Geers Yoakes Hoes Oxen and all my Carpenters Tools of every kinds and ten Shillings in money  Item I give to my Son William Salmon Twentie Shillings in money  Item I give to my Son Nathaniel Salmon Ten pounds in money  Item I  give to my Son Stephen Salmon twentie pounds in money above what I have allready given him  Item I give to my Son John fiveteen Pounds in money  Iteem I give to my daughter Hannah Hempstead my Negro Girl named Margaret  Iteem I give to my daughter Abigail twentie pounds in money my two Cows two Swine four Sheep and lambs all the Provisions I have to Eate or Eatable as Wheate Meale Corn Butter Meloses Sugar Salt Meal flower all my Household goods Beads and furniture Blankets Sheets Table linin Towell Cloath if any not worked up Yarn &c. togather with the whole of my household Stuff of every kind my Baggs and the Negro Girl called Luce which I bought in her name and my Will and mind is that my Executors Sell and dispose of all my lands & Meadows and all my moveable Estate not herein disposed of pay all my just debts Legacies and funeral Charges and allso sell my Negro Boy called Enok and the remainder of the money togather with whatever is due to me by Bond Note or any Obligation whatsoever which shall be left after Just debts Legacies and funeral charges are payd I order to be devided equally between my four youngest Sons Namely William Nathaniel Stephen and John and to their heirs & assigns forever  Lastly I Nomenatt and appoint my Friends and Relations Brother Benjamin Bayley and Cousen Robert Hempsted each of Southold abovesd. to be Executors of this my Will and my Will is and I do hearby impower them to Sell my lands and Meadows and movable Estate as above mentioned and deal oute to my Children and pay my debts and legacies according as is above described and I do hearby revoke disanull and make voide all former Wills and bequests by me att any time before made Ratifying and Confirming this and no other as my last Will  In Witness whereof I have hearunto sett my hand fixed my Seal the day and year above written.

                                                                                                                                                Wm. Salmon                                        (seal)

Signed Sealed published pronounced and declared by the above named William Salmon as his last Will and Testament in presence of Interlining between ye. 12 & 13 line from ye bottom before Sealing

John Salmon

Daniel Tuthill jun

Pheb Goldsmith

 

Probated on 14 May 1759, and proved by John Salmon Cordwainer, and Daniel Tuthill the third Yeoman, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Benjamin Bayley and Robert Hempsted, the Executors, on 3 Jan. 1760.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from New York County Probate, Vol. 21, p. 471-473, copied from original Liber 21, p. 468-470.

 

 

Will of Abner Sampson of Duxbury, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1837) *

  Be it remembered that I Abner Sampson of Duxbury in the county of Plymouth, considering the uncertainty of this mortal life and being of sound mind and memory, Blessed be God for the same do make and publish this my last Will and Testament in manner and form following (viz.) First I give and bequeath unto my wife Ruth Sampson all the use and improvement of all the property both real and personal I may die possessed of Provided however the above named property is given to the said Ruth Sampson for her own use and comfortable support and not that she may bestow alms or spend it in a manner not for her own comfort

I also give and bequeath unto the said Ruth Two hundred dollars in money and the value of fifty dollars in household Furniture now in my house to dispose of by will to whom she pleases.

  I also give and bequeath unto the children of Sarah Brewster wife of Joseph Brewster ten dollars each.

  I also give and bequeath unto Jane Ramsdell wife of Elbridge G. Ramsdell and unto Deborah Crooker wife of Daniel S. Crooker twenty dollars each.

  I also give and bequeath unto Hiram Hunt, Albin M. Hunt and Edward G. Hunt Ten dollars each and to Mary wife of Weston Freeman Jr. fifteen dollars and to Nathaniel Sampson Twenty dollars and to Barker Baker twenty five dollars and to Henry Hunt one hundred dollars and to Ziba Hunt I give and bequeath – all the property both real and personal except the above legacies that may be remaining at my wife’s decease.

  All the above legacies except that of Ziba Hunt are to be paid by my Executor within three months after my decease. I have at this time a perfect recollection of all my connexion none of which are to inherit (except those above mentioned) any of the property I may have. And I hereby appoint Ralph Partridge sole Executor to this my last will and Testament. Hereby revoking all former wills by me made.

   In witness whereof I the said Abner Sampson have hereunto set my hand and seal this twenty eighth day of October A. D. 1837

                                                                                                                                                Abner Sampson

Signed, sealed, published and declared by the Above named Abner Sampson to be his last will and Testament in presince of us who at his request and in his presence have hereunto subscribed our names as witnesses to the same.

                Ralph Partridge

                Welthea L. Partridge

                Hannah Partridge

 

Presented for probate on the first Tuesday of June 1843 by Ralph Partridge, the Executor therein named, and proved by Ralph Partridge and Hannah Partridge, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters Testamentary were granted to Ralph Partridge, the executor therein named.

 

Ralph Partridge, of Duxbury, was granted Letters Testamentary on the Estate of Abner Sampson, late of Duxbury, Yeoman, on 6 June 1843, with Martin Winsor and William W. Winsor, of Duxbury, as sureties.

Seth Sprague Jun., Galen Weston and Martin Sampson, all of Duxbury, were appointed to appraise the estate of Abner Sampson, late of Duxbury, on 6 June 1843.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Abner Sampson, late of Duxbury, was appraised on 14 June 1843, and totaled $2916.00, including his real estate valued at $912, and notes of hand from various persons totaling $1913.00. Ralph Partridge, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on the third Monday of Jan. 1844.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 85, p. 273-275, from FHL microfilm #0555268, Vol. 1G, p. 247, and Vol. 86, p. 45-46.

 

 

Will of Anne Sampson of Kingston, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1830) *

        Be it Known that I Anne Sampson of Kingston in the County of Plymouth, Singlewoman, do make and publish this Instrument to be my last Will and Testament, hereby revoking all others by me heretofore made, viz

        I give and devise to my Nephew Joseph Sampson Esq. of Kingston my Pew in the first Congregational Meeting house in said town, to him and his heirs forever.  I also give and bequeath to him my small silver pitcher, Mahogany desk with the old family papers, and all my furniture not herein-after disposed of.  I also give and devise to said Joseph Sampson the use and improvement of my half of a dwelling-house, and the lot of land adjoining thereto, for and during the term of his natural life.

        I give and bequeath to my Nephew Josiah Sampson my Silver Pepper Castor, Carving Knife and Fork.

        I give and bequeath to my Nephew Dr Joseph Sampson of Brewster a Silver Spout Cup and an old Looking Glass.

        I give and bequeath to my Nephew William Sampson my press bedstead, feather bed, green curtains, window curtains, green bedquilt and Calico bedquilt belonging to the same, and two table spoons with double mark.

        I give and devise to my Nephew Frederick Jackson my wood lot in Kingston, containing eighteen acres, to him & his heirs forever. I also give him my Easy Chair and dark Mahogany Table.

        I give and bequeath to my Nephew George Jackson four Table Spoons marked A.S.

        I give and bequeath to my Nephew Thomas Jackson eight Tea Spoons marked S. and my Quarto family bible.

        I give to my Nieces, Caroline Jackson and Lucy Jackson two feather beds, best bedstead, and one bedstead from the back chamber, a Mahogany tea stand, Mahogany Chamber table, two small Looking-glasses, a small brass kettle, skillet & copper tea kettle, all my yellow chairs, one stuffed chair, white bed curtains, window curtains, one cotton bed covering, one blue & white calico bedquilt, Furniture Chinter bed and window curtains, and a worked Counter jin.

        I give and bequeath to Lucy Anne S. Jackson my best gown, pelise, bonnet & veil, and also the sum of fifty dollars to be paid her by my Executor within six months after my decease.

        I give and bequeath to Ellen Brewster fifty dollars. ~ I give and bequeath to Judith Drew Beal my small silver porringer.

        I give and bequeath to Deborah Sampson of Kingston the sum of fifty dollars

        I give and bequeath to my nephew Benjamin Sampson my Silver Watch.

I give and bequeath to my Niece Mary Adams, the wife of Charles Adams of Kingston my Maple Dining Table, Desk, Book Case, the old books, large brass kettle and warming pan.

        I give and bequeath to Lucy Sampson of Kingston my case of draws, Small trunk marked D.S. and a Cedar Table & Iron dogs, shovel & tongs and warming-pan usually kept in my chamber.

        I give and bequeath to my nine nieces, Mary Adams, Susan Sampson, and Lucy Sampson, the children of my brother Josiah Sampson, Harriet Fish, Lucy Sampson and Rebecca Crocker, the children of my brother Crocker Sampson, Betsey Beal the wife of Y. P. Beal, and Caroline Jackson and Lucy Jackson, the children of Thomas Jackson of Plymouth, three leather trunks and contents viz: Wearing apparel, linen, tin, pewter, iron, crockery and glass ware – and all my carpeting except what is in the front room and chamber over it, to be equally divided between them, but not to be appraised or inventoried: And as to all the residue of my estate, real and personal, after the payment of my debts and the charges of settling my estate, I do give, bequeath and devise the same to my said nine nieces above enumerated and named in the next preceeding bequest, to be equally divided between them, to them and their heirs.

        I appoint Nathaniel Thomas Esq. of Kingston sole Executor of this my Will.

                In Witness Whereof I have hereto set my hand and seal this sixteenth day of June in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and thirty.

                                                                                                                                                Anne Sampson                                  (seal)

        Signed, sealed, published and declared by the above named Ann Sampson to be her last Will and Testament in the presence of us, who at her request, and in her presence and in the presence of each other have subscribed our names as witnesses.

        Isaac Sampson

        Elizabeth Sampson    

        James Cox

 

Presented for probate on 5 Dec. 1836 by Nathaniel Thomas, the Executor therein named, and proved by Elizabeth Sampson and James Cox, two of the witnesses. Letters Testamentary were granted to Nathaniel Thomas, the Executor therein named.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 78, p. 512-514, from FHL microfilm #0555264.

 

 

Will of Benjamin Sampson of Kingston, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1751) *

                In the Name of GOD Amen, the twentyeth day of February In the Year of Our Lord One Thousand Seven Hundred & fifty or fifty one, I Benjamin Sampson of Kingston in the County of Plimouth in the province of the Massachusetts bay in New England Merchant, upon Good & cerious Considerations & being of Perfect mind & Memory, thanks be Given unto God for the same, & therefore calling unto mind the Mortality of my body & Knowing that it is appointed for all men Once to die do make & Ordain this My last will & Testament, that it to say Principally & first of all, IG & recommend my soul into the Hands of God that Gave it, & my body I recommend to the earth, to be Buried in a decent & Christian manner at the discretion of my Execr. herein afternamed, Nothing doubting but at the Great & Generall Resurrection I shall Receive the Same again by the Almighty Power of GOD, and as Touching such Worldly Goods & Temporall estate wherewith it hath Pleased God to Bless me with in this Life I give Demise and Dispose of the same in manner & form Following ~

Imprs. My Will is that all my Just debts & funerall charges be defrayed & pd. out of my Personall Estate ~

Item I Give and Bequeath to my dearly & Beloved wife Rebecca Sampson the whole Improvement of one half of my now Dwelling House & one halfe of the Household Goods during her naturall Life ~

Item, I give and Bequeath unto my Grandson Micah Sampson three Acres of Land & it lyes Adjoyning to the Northerly side of Seth Chipman Junrs. & by the Easterly side of the Country road, and a Lott of Land I formerly bought of Israel Bradford called twenty five acres where a sawmill stands upon it, and One Hundred & thirty three pounds Six Shillings & eight pence that is One Third of said sum in Lawfull money, and the other two thirds of said sum in sutiable Lumber that will well answer to Building adwelling House, and all this is to be Paid as abovesaid when my said Grandson Micah Sampson Arrives to Twenty one years of age, & if my said Grandson Micah Sampson should dwell or Settle in Kingston aforesaid, My two sons Cornelius Sampson & Benjamin Sampson hereafter named shall be obliged to keep him a Cow both winter & Summer along with their own for the Space of twelve years upon free cost, but if in case said Grandson Micah Sampson should dye, without Issue or Heirs Lawfully begotten of his Body then all this above given Premisses to said Micah is to go to my said Two sons Cornelius & Benjamin their Heirs & assigns forever, but if said Grandson Micah should have Issue or Lawfull Heirs of his body then the abovesd. Premisses to be for him the said Micah his heirs & Assigns forever ~

Item I do Give and Bequeath to my Daughter Deborah Veazie the wife of the Revd. mr. Saml. Veazie the sum of One Hundred & thirty three pounds Six shillings & eight pence in lawfull Money or Equivlent thereto in the form following that is to say, this One hundred thirty three pounds six shillings & eight pence is to be Paid in with what she has Already received so far as it amounts towards said sum aforesaid and the Residue or remainder of the abovesaid sum she is to have one third Part if Lawfull Money and the Other two thirds or parts in that sort of Pay or Species that she the said Deborah Veazie and my Execr. hereafter named shall agree to take her Pay in & all this Last above mentioned Legacie to be Paid in One year after my decease ~

Item, I do Give & Bequeath unto my two Sons Cornelius Sampson & Benjamin Sampson all the residue or remainder of all my real or Personall Estate of what kind or nature whatsoever & wheresoever it may be found that is to say two thirds or adouble Share of my sd. Last mentd. Estate to my Eldest son now Surviving that is the said Cornelius Sampson but my Intent & Meaning is that what I have already Given said son Cornelius by deed of Gift shall be apart towards making up a double share or two thirds as aforementioned to my said Son Cornelius Sampson in my sd. Estate Last mentioned ~

Item, I do Give and Bequeath unto my youngest son Benjamin Sampson, all the Other third or Share as last afore mentioned of my Estate in whatsoever or wheresoever it may be found shall be to my son Benja. Sampson as abovesaid, and my will is that my well beloved wife Rebecca Sampson shall have a Good Comfortable & Honourable Maintenance or Support out of the estate that I have given as abovesaid to my two Sons the said Cornelius Sampson & Benjamin Sampson during her Naturall Life and my will is that all of my abovesd. Estate that is Given to each of my Children as abovesaid shall be to each of them their Heirs Execrs. admrs. and assigns forever,

Item, I do hereby Constitute and appoint my Trusty, well beloved & dutifull Son Cornelius Sampson to be the sole Execr. of this my Last Will & Testamt. and I do hereby utterly dissalow and revoke and disanull all & every Other former Wills Testament & Bequests by me in in anyways before named, made, willed or Bequested, Ratifying & Confirming this & no other to be my Last Will and Testament. In Witness whereof I the said Benja. Sampson have hereunto set my hand & Seal the day & year above writen

Signed, Sealed Published, Pronounced, & Declared

by the said Benjamin Sampson that this                                                                         Benja. Sampson                (seal)

within writen is to be his Last Will & testamt.

in the Presence off us the Subscribers

Lemuell Kent

Sarah Chipman

John Wadsworth

 

Presented for probate on 1 May 1758 by the Execr. therein named, and proved by Saml. [sic] Kent, Sarah Chipman, and John Wadsworth, the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Cornelius Sampson, of Kingston, Merchant, the Executor, on 1 May 1758.

 

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

Received of Cornelius Samson Executor of the last Will and Testament of mr. Benjamin Samson late of Kingston Decd One hundred thirty three pounds Six shillings & Eight pence being in full of the sum my Honrd. Grandfather the abovesaid Benjamin Samson gave me in his said Will, Therefore do acquit him the said Cornelius and his heirs forever hereafter from any further demands on the abovesd. Sum of One hundred thirty three pounds six shillings & Eight pence Given under my hand and Seal this 24th. day of February A.D. 1762

& in presence of

Wrestling Brewster jur.                                                                                                      Micah Sampson                   (seal)

Seth Tupper

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 14, p. 523-526, from FHL microfilm #0551542, and Vol. 16, p. 324.

 

 

Will of Benjamin Sampson of Kingston, Plymouth County, Massachusetts Bay (1778) *

In the Name of God Amen—This the fourth day of November Anno Domini 1778 I Benjamin Sampson of Kingston in the county of Plymouth in the State of the Massachusetts Bay, yeoman, being weak in body, but of a sound and disposing mind & memory, and being desirous to set my house in order before I Go hence, do make and ordain this my Last will and testament and first I commend my soul to God that Gave it, and my body to the Earth to be decently buried according to the discretion of my Executrix hereafter named, hoping for a Joyful resurrection through the merits of Jesus christ my redeemer, and touching my outward Estate, wherewith it hath pleased God to bless me with in this Life I dispose of the same as follows vizt

Imprimis—I Give and Bequeath unto my Son Benjamin Sampson and his heirs, my Right in the Furnace in Kingston, and a Bond of Elijah Sampson and my arms and Accoutrements & my Great coat

Item—I Give & bequeath unto my Son Crode Sampson, and his heirs the Southerly half of my dwelling house, and the one half of my Barn, & corn Barn, with half of my Cellar, and my Best suit of wearing Apparell and my Sabout[?] and my Gold Sleeve Buttons

Item—I Give and bequeath unto my son Micah Sampson, and his heirs the remainder of my wearing Apparell which I have not Given to my son Croad, and and the Other half of my dwelling house, and Other Buildings, which I have not Given to my son Croad; only my wife Esther Sampson to have the use of them Buildings during her widowhood; and my will is, after the aforesaid term, that my son Micah shall pay to my two daughters, Deborah Sampson and Priscilla Sampson and their heirs, what the half of the house and Other Buildings shall then be Appraised at to be equally divided between them ~

Item—I Give & Bequeath unto my three sons Benjamin Sampson and Croad Sampson and Micah Sampson, and their heirs, all my Land & meadow Lying in Kingston and Duxborough, besides what is hereafter exempted, to be equally between them

Item—I Give & Bequeath unto my beloved wife Esther Sampson and her heirs the One third of all my personal Estate which I have not Given to my three Sons, and also that my wife Esther shall have the improvement of One third of my Lands Lying in Kingston, excepting my Salt meadow, during her widowhood, and my will is that my three Sons Benjamin, Croade & Micah find their mother one Load and a Quarter of Salt hay a year, yearly during the aforesaid term between them

Item—I Give unto my two daughters, Deborah Sampson and Priscilla Sampson and their heirs the Other parts of my Personal Estate, which I have not Given to my three Sons and my wife to be Equally divided between them, notwithstanding the above mentioned, I determine that my funeral charges and Just Debts to be paid out of my Personal Estate, which I have Given to my wife Esther, and my two daughters Deborah and Priscilla – my will is that my daughter Deborah Sampson have a priviledge of Living in my dwelling house which I have Given unto my son Croade as Long as she shall remain unmarried

Lastly—I do constitute and appoint my Beloved wife Esther Sampson Executrix of this my Last will and testament, hereby revoking all Other will & testaments by me formerly made, and allow and confirming this only as my Last will & testament. In witness whereof I the said Benjamin Sampson do hereto set my hand and Seal the day and year above mentioned

Signed, Sealed and delivered by the

said Benjamin Sampson to be his                                                                                     Benjamin Sampson                         (seal)

Last will & testament in presence of us

                Joseph Sampson

                Isaac Cook

                John Faunce

 

Presented for probate on 1 March 1779 by Esther Sampson, the Executrix therein named, and proved by Joseph Sampson and John Faunce, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Esther Sampson, the before named Executrix.

 

John Gray Esqr., Elisha Brewster, and John Faunce, yeomen, all of Kingston, were appointed to appraise the estate of Benjamin Sampson, late of Kingston, on 1 Mar. 1779. The Inventory, dated 22 Feb. 1780, totaled £19,645.14.9, including his extensive real estate holdings which totaled £15,820. The appraisers gave their oath to the inventory on 3 Mar. 1780, and Esther Sampson, the Executrix, gave her oath to the inventory on 6 Mar. 1780.

 

To John Faunce of Kingston, yeoman, Greeting

Whereas Benjamin Sampson Late of said Kingston yeoman deceased, on the Fourth day of November Anno Domini 1778 made his Last will and testament in writing, and signed, sealed and delivered the same before sufficient witnesses, which Will was duly proved and approved, and after Gifts & Legacies then made he appointed his wife Esther Sampson sole Executrix of the same Will, but she dying before she had completed her administration—and whereas the power of committing administration and full disposition of all & singular the Goods Chattels Rights and Credits of the said deced remains still to be administered upon, and to be done and Finished, and also the hearing examining & allowing the account of such Admon doth appertain unto me

                Trusting therefore in your care and fidelity I do by these presents commit unto you full power to administer all and singular the remaining Goods, Chattells Rights and Credits of the said deced Benjamin Sampson first mentioned, and well and faithfully to dispose of the same according to Law and the direction of the said Will, and also to ask Gather Levy, Recover and Recieve all and whatsoever Credits of the said deced which to him while he Lived, and at the time of his decease did appertain, which are not paid, and to pay all remaining debts in which the said deced stood bound, so far as his Goods Chattells, Rights & Credits can extend, according to the value thereof and render a plain and true account of your said Admon upon Oath, within twelve months next coming, and I do hereby ordain constitute and appoint you Admor. cum Testamento annexo et de bonis non of all & singular the Goods, Chattells, Rights & Credits aforesaid—In Testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and Seal of the Court of Probate the third day of March Anno Domini 1783 ~

                                                                                                                                                Jos. Cushing

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 25, pp. 196-197, 452-453, from FHL microfilm #0550713, and Vol. 27, p. 495-496.

 

 

Will of Chandler Sampson of Marshfield, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1849) *

In the name of God, Amen, I Chandler Sampson of Marshfield in the County of Plymouth, Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Yeoman, do hereby make and declare this instrument to be my last Will and Testament revoking hereby all wills heretofore made by me. –

First  I hereby appoint Asa Waterman of said Marshfield, and my my son Calvin C Sampson of Charlestown in the County of Middlesex, to be Trustees under this will

Second  All my estate Real and Personal after the payment of my just debts, I devise to my said Trustees to be held by them, in trust, for the benefit, equally – of my six children, viz: Esther C, Sarah B. Nancy T. Martha, Eliza and Calvin C.

Third I empower said Trustees to pay over the portion of my personal estate coming to each individual for whose benefit above bequest is made, immediately or otherwise to invest the same for the benefit of such individuals as shall seem most expedient – And in case of my married daughters shall decease, before their husbands respectively, I give such daughters share to her children equally; to be retained in trust by said Trustees (or their successors in said Trust) and paid over to the legal Guardians, either in the whole, or the income only, as they shall deem most for the interest of said minors. And on the arrival of said minors at the age of twenty one years, or on their marriage, their portion shall be paid over to them

4  Sensible of the good understanding existing among my children, I request of them (if they shall desire it) to retain my real estate, among themselves. I therefore request that, as soon as convenient after my decease, a family meeting of all my children shall be held for the purpose of arranging among themselves some just division of said estate; and my Trustees are directed to request each member of my family (i e, each child) irrespectively of any husband they may have, to meet at a certain time and place, for the purpose aforesaid.

5.  If at such meeting, no arrangement can be entered into among my children, I give my said Trustees the power to sell said Real Estate either at public auction or private sale at their option; and said Trustees shall not be obligated to apply to any Court for leave to sell my real estate The proceeds of said Real Estate (if so sold shall be held in the same manner, applied to the to the same purposes, and for the benefit of the same persons named in the second and third clauses of this instrument.

6th.  I believe I do best for the interests of my children and their husbands as well as any children whom my daughters shall or may have, by directing that the bequests so made shall never be liable for the debts or engagements of any husband or husbands of my said daughters; nor shall the portions of my said daughters be at all subject to the control or interferance of any such husband or husbands.

7  At the decease of either of my said Trustees, the survivor shall have the same powers and discretion in all matters as is herein given to both. And if the survivor shall at any time, think the interests of my children or grand children can be promoted by his having a co trustee he shall with the consent of my children, then living select some proper person to act in said capacity of co trustee. –

8.  The receipts of my daughters respectively, and of the guardians of my grand children respectively, without the interferance of the husband or father, shall be sufficient discharge to my trustees for any payments they may make to said daughters or guardians.

9  I desire to act not only equally, but kindly with each of my children, and therefore hereby declare that whenever and as soon as my said Trustees shall deem it expedient and proper, they shall be at liberty to deliver over to each of my said daughters, or to any one or more of them, or to the guardian of the children of any deceased daughter, the portion that shall be coming to them respectively, and if the said real estate shall not have been sold, by said Trustees, they (said Trustees) shall be a liberty at such time as they think proper, to pass good and sufficient deeds of said real estate to the parties entitled thereto under this will – Provided said Trustees shall deem it prudent to relinquish said portion or portions or any of said real estate

        I hereby nominate the said Asa Waterman and Calvin C Sampson to be Executors of this Will

        Dated at said Marshfield this fourteenth day of September in the year of our Lord eighteen hundred and forty nine

                                                                                                                                                Chandler Sampson                          (seal)

        Signed, sealed, published and declared by the said Testator as his last will and testament in the presence of us, who at his request, in his presence and in the presence of each other hereto subscribe our names as witnesses

                                                Nahum Packard

                                                Seth Williamson

                                                John Ford

 

Presented for probate on the last Monday of Sept. 18[50] by Asa Waterman and Calvin C Sampson, the Executor therein named, and proved by Nahum Packard, Seth Williamson and John Ford, the witnesses whose names are subscribed thereto. Letters Testamentary were granted to Asa Waterman and Calvin C Sampson, the Executors therein named.

 

Calvin C. Sampson, of Charlestown, County of Middlesex, and Asa Waterman, of Marshfield, were appointed as Executors of the last Will and Testament of Chandler Sampson, late of Marshfield, on 30 Sept. 1850, with John Ford and Nahum Packard, both of Marshfield, as sureties.

John Ford, Eleazer Harlow and Nahum Packard, all of Marshfield, were appointed to appraise the estate of Chandler Sampson, late of Marshfield, on 12 Nov. 1850.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Chandler Sampson, late of Marshfield, Yeoman, was dated 14 Nov. 1850, his real estate valued at $13,854.50, including his homestead in Marshfield containing 29 acres valued at $2000, and the Brewster wood lot in Pembroke containing 118 acres valued at $6500, and his personal estate totaled $2785.22, including $553.84 in cash on hand. Calvin C Sampson and Asa Waterman, the Executors, gave their oath to the inventory on the second Monday of Jan. 1851.

 

Martha S. Magoun gave her receipt to Calvin C. Sampson and Asa Waterman, Executors & Trustees of the Estate of her father, Chandler Sampson, for $1397.97 on 31 Dec. 1852. Sarah B. Thomas gave her receipt to Calvin C. Sampson and Asa Waterman, Executors & Trustees of the Estate of her father Chandler Sampson, for $1877.39 on 31 Dec. 1852, Nancy Waterman gave her receipt to C. C. Sampson and Asa Waterman, Executors & Trustees of the Estate of Chandler Sampson, for $2410.39 on 31 Dec. 1852, Esther C. Sampson gave her receipt to Calvin C. Sampson and Asa Waterman, Executors & Trustees of the Estate of Chandler Sampson for $2446.05 on 31 Dec. 1852, Eliza S. Magoun gave her receipt to Calvin C. Sampson and Asa Waterman, Executors & Trustees of the estate of her father, Chandler Sampson, for $2640.51 on 31 Dec. 1862, and Calvin C. Sampson gave his receipt to Calvin C. Sampson and Asa Waterman, Executors & Trustees under the will of his father Chandler Sampson for $3882.50 on 31 Dec. 1852.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 92, p. 380-382, from FHL microfilm #0555640, Vol. 2H, p. 246, Vol. 93, p. 29-30, and Vol. 95, p. 31.

 

 

Will of Crocker Sampson of Kingston, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1806) *

   In the name of God Amen; I Crocker Sampson of Kingston, in the County of Plymouth, A. M. &c. being weak in body but of sound & perfect mind and memory and considering the uncertainty of this mortal life: Do make & publish this my last will & testament in manner & form following. (viz) First I give & bequeath unto my loving wife Rebecca Sampson the improvement of the one third part of all my Real Estate during her natural life, I also give to her the improvement of all the remainder of my Real Estate untill my Son Benjamin shall arrive to the age of twenty one years if she shall remain so long unmarried. I also give & bequeath unto my said Wife so much of my indoor personal estate as may be necessary for her convenient Accommodation for her self & children

   I give & bequeath unto my son Benjamin Sampson one United States three per cent Note of the sum of one hundred & seventy seven dollars & five cents. I give & bequeath unto my three daughters, (Viz) Harriot, Rebecca & Lucy, three United States three per cent notes amounting to the sum of three hundred & thirty seven dollars & twenty four cents to be equally divided between them.

   I also give & put into the hands of my beloved Wife aforenamed all the remainder of my personal estate of what name or nature so ever hereby directing her to pay my Just Debts therefrom and if the same should be insufficient, or she should judge it expedient, to retain such part thereof as she may think proper, & to sell such part or parts of my real estate (when it may best be spared) as may be sufficient to discharge said debts and to bring up my children.

  I do also appoint my said wife to be guardian to all my children aforenamed during their minority if she remains so long unmarried.

  Also my will is that when my son Benjamin shall arrive to the age of twenty one years, my real Estate shall be divided into five equal parts or shares & my said son shall have two shares thereof, and my Daughters aforenamed shall each of them have one share thereof.

   And Lastly, I do hereby appoint my loving wife aforenamed and my Friend Mr. Nathaniel Thomas, to be executors of this my last will and Testament, and do hereby revoke all former Wills by me made. In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand & seal this twenty eighth day of January, Anno. Domini, One Thousand eight hundred and six – 1806

  Signed, sealed, published, & declared

in presence of us –

        John Gray                                                                                                                     Crocker Sampson                            (seal)

Samuel Stetson

   Seth Perkins.

 

Presented for probate on 21 July 1823 by Charles Fish of Kingston, Housewright, Rebecca Sampson and Nathaniel Thomas Esqr, the Executors therein named having refused said trust, and proved by Samuel Stetson, one of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Charles Fish, the before Executor [sic].

 

  To the Probate Court for the County of Plymouth. This certifies that We decline accepting the trust of Executing the will of Crocker Sampson late of Kingston in said County, Esquire, deceased.

                                                                                                                                                Rebecca Sampson

July 21st. 1823~                                                                                                                   Nathaniel Thomas

 

To Charles Fish of Kingston in sd county Housewright, Greeting.

 Whereas Crocker Sampson late of said Kingston Gentleman decd, on the twenty eighth day of January anno Domini one thousand eight hundred and six made his last will & Testament in writing and signed, sealed & declared the same before sufficient witnesses by which will after gifts, and Legacies then made he appointed his wife Rebecca Sampson & Nathaniel Thomas Esqr Executors of the same will, but they having refused said trust and the said will having been proved approved and allowed, Administration with the said will annexed is therefore by these presents committed unto you the said Charles Fish of all and singular the goods, chattels, rights and credits of the said deceased will & faithfully to dispose of the same according to Law & the direction of the said will…

   In Testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand & seal of Office the 21st day of July in the year of our Lord 1823.

                                                                                                                                                Wilkes Wood J. Prob.

 

Nathaniel Thomas Esq., John Gray, Gentleman, and Charles Adams, Trader, all of Kingston, were appointed to appraise the Estate of Crocker Sampson, late of Kingston, Gentleman, on 21 July 1823. The Inventory of the estate of Crocker Sampson, late of Kingston, was dated 5 Aug. 1823, his real estate totaled $4102.00, including his homestead farm and buildings valued at $2810, and his personal estate totaled $254.45. Charles Fish, the Administrator with the will annexed, gave his oath to the inventory on 11 Aug. 1823.

 

To the Hon Judge of Probate for Plymouth County. The subscriber, the widow of Crocker Sampson late of Kingston in said County gentleman deceased testate, hereby gives your Honour to know & be informed that she hereby waves the provision made for her in the will of her deceased husband – And intends to claim her dower at law from his Estate & such allowance from his personal estate as your honour shall judge to be just & equitable.

  Kingston Aug 11. 1823.                                                                                                   Rebecca Sampson

 

Plymouth Ss. Court of Probate, To Charles Fish Administrator with the will annexed on the estate of Crocker Sampson late of Kingston in said County Gent deceased, Greeting

You are hereby directed to deliver to Rebecca Sampson the widow of said deceased, so much of his personal Estate in such articles as she may choose as shall amount to the sum of two hundred dollars, at their appraisement in the Inventory of the same being an allowance made her for necessaries. Given unto my hand this eleventh day of August A. D. 1823.

                                                                                                                                                Wilkes Wood  J. Probate

 

To the Hon Wilkes Wood Esquire Judge of Probate for the county of Plymouth

The petition & representation of Charles Fish Administrator with the will annexed on the estate of Crocker Sampson late of Kingston in said County Gent. deceased, humbly shows that the personal estate of said deceased is insufficient by the sum of Fifteen hundred Dollars for the payment of his just debts & incidental charges, he therefore prays that he may be licensed to sell so much of said deceased’s real Estate as shall produce the sum aforesaid.

                                                                                                                                                Charles Fish

Approved on 11 Aug. 1823.

 

John Gray, Gentleman, Charles Adams, Trader, and Nathaniel Thomas Esqr., all of Kingston and all freeholders, were appointed to set off to the widow Rebecca Sampson her dower in the real estate of Crocker Sampson, late of Kingston, Gentlemen, for her use during her natural life, on 11 Aug. 1823. The division was dated 1 Sept. 1823, and approved on 7 Oct. 1823.

 

John Gray and Spencer Bradford, Gentleman, and Lewis Gray, yeoman, all of Kingston, were appointed to divide the real estate of Crocker Sampson, late of Kingston, Esq., excepting that part which has been sold for the payment of debts and also that part improved by his widow as her Dower therein, into five equal shares and assign to Benjamin Sampson two shares, to Hariet Fish one share, to Rebecca Crocker one share, and to Lucy H. Sampson one share, agreeably to the direction of the last Will and Testament of said deceased, on 19 July 1824. The division was dated 20 Sept. 1824, and approved on 21 Mar. 1825.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 57, p. 205-207, from FHL microfilm #0550909, Vol. 52, p. 456-457, Vol. 57, pp. 251-253, 367-369, and Vol. 59, p. 78-80.

 

 

Will of Daniel Sampson of Middleborough, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1814) *

  Be it remembered that I Daniel Sampson of Middleborough & County of Plymouth, being weak in Body but of a perfect mind & memory, blessed be almighty God for the same, do make & publish this my last will & Testament in the manner & Form following (that is to say)

                First I give and bequeath unto my well beloved wife Catharine Sampson the use and Improvement of the one half of my improved Lands & the one half of my my part of the House wherein we dwell, while she remains my Widow – I also give her all my indoor Moveables, Household Furniture, neat Cattle, Swine & Sheep (except such as I shall hereafter name) to her use, Behoof & Disposal forever – also Wood from off my Woodland sufficient to support one Fire – also to be furnished with a Horse & Chaise to use herself whenever she may desire it out of the proceeds or Income of the Residue of my Estate not bequeathed to her (as above mentioned.)

                I do also give and bequeath unto Elias Sampson Junr. (Son of my Brother Elias) & to his Heirs & Assigns forever, one Bed & Furniture for the same & also my wearing Apparel & also all my Lands Tenements & all other Estate both Real & personal of all kinds & Nature whatsoever not heretofore named after paying all my just Debts & funeral Charges.—

                And lastly I hereby appoint my Brother Elias Sampson Executor of this my last Will & Testament – hereby revoking all former Wills by me made –

        In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand & Seal this twenty first day of June in the Year of our Lord one Thousand eight hundred & fourteen –

        signed, sealed, published & declared by the

        above named Danl. Sampson to be his last Will

        & Testament in the presence of us, who at his

        Request & in his presence have hereunto subscribed                                           Daniel Sampson                               (seal)

        our names as Witnesses to the same. –

                Stephen B. Pickens

                Ebenr. Pickens

                Samuel Pickens

 

Presented for probate on 2 Aug. 1814 by Elias Sampson, the Executor therein named, and proved by Stephen B. Pickens, Ebenr. Pickens and Samuel Pickens Esqr., the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Elias Sampson, the before named Executor.

 

Samuel Pickens Esqr., Samuel Bates, yeoman, and Ephraim Ward Esqr., all of Middleborough, were appointed to appraise the Estate of Daniel Sampson, late of Middleborough, yeoman, on 2 Aug. 1814. The Inventory of the Estate of Daniel Sampson, late of Middleborough, dated 13 Aug. 1814, totaled $3145.60, including his real estate valued at $2700. Elias Sampson, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 10 Nov. 1814.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 45, pp. 441-442, 541, from FHL microfilm #0550903.

 

 

Will of Deborah Sampson of Kingston, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1788) *

In the Name of God Amen – I Deborah Sampson of Kingston in the County of Plymouth and Commonwealth of Massachusetts Spinster, being by the Goodness of God in the Exercise of reason, but under infirmity of body, do proceed to make this my Last will and testament—I commend my soul to God the Great Author of it’s being, in hope of pardon and salvation thro’ the merits of his son Jesus Christ; and my body I commit to the dust in the usual manner in hope of a Resurrection—my worldly property I dispose of in the following manner ~

To my Brother Croad I Give a note of hand I have against him and twenty Dollars in money –

To my Brother Micah I Give a Large table Silver Spoon and a wrought Pocket Book

To my Sister Priscilla I Give a Callico Gown and Skirt and my plain Gold Ring

To Lydia Daws I Give a Large Damask table Cloth

To my Brother Benjamin I Give all my remaining property of every name upon condition of his paying out of it my Debts and Funeral Charges; and I do hereby appoint him Executor to this my Last will

        In Testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and Seal this Seventh day of November in the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and Eighty Eight

        Witness                                                                                                                                          her

Zephh. Willis                                                                                                                          Deborah  X  Sampson                        (seal)

Saml. Stetson                                                                                                                                        mark

Cephas Wadsworth

 

Presented for probate on 5 Jan. 1789 by Benjamin Sampson, the Executor therein named, and proved by Samuel Stetson and Cephas Wadsworth, two of the witnesses thereto Subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Benjamin Sampson, the before named Executor, with Samuel Stetson, Cordwainer, and Cephas Wadsworth, Housewright, all of Kingston, as sureties. No inventory of her estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 30, p. 497-499, from FHL microfilm #0550716.

 

 

Will & Codicil of Desire Sampson of Kingston, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1799) *

In the Name of God Amen I, Desire Sampson of Kingston in the County of Plymouth & Commonwealth of Massachusetts, widow; being far advanced in age, yet, thro’ the mercy of God, have my reason continued so as to be of disposing mind & memory – I do make and publish this my last will & testament, in manner and form following, And first, I commend my spirit to almighty God who gave it me, and my body I commit to the earth to be decently buried by my hereafter named Executors, in hope of an happy renion & glorious resurrection to life immortal. And as to my worldly property I may have remaining to me at my decease, I dispose of it in the following manner~

  First. I Give to my Son Crocker Sampson of my Personal Estate, three small notes or continental securities of different Interest, bearing date ye. 17th. of July 1798 signed by Thomas Perkins, it being the share assigned to my son Josiah, in his decease’d Father’s estate and transfer’d to me by him amounting to the sum of 572 Dollars & 95 Cents –

  Also, one half of a Note I have on my son Josiah of 150 Dollars, if at that time to be found – also of my houshold furniture, Sundry articles as described to him in a note from under my hand in my life time – I also give him one quarter part of a well, I lately rebuilt standing near his house, with all its privileges & appurtenances.

  I Give and bequeath to my son Joseph Sampson, three larger Notes on continental securities dated ye. 9th. day of April 1798 signed by Nathaniel Appleton of different Interest, amounting to Seventeen Hundred & Eighteen Dollars 87 Cents.

 I Give & bequeath to my son Josiah Sampson of Barnstable, all my real estate, laying in the town & County of Barnstable, which descended to me from my Hond. Father Mr Benjamin Crocker deceased– vizt. one half the farm. Commonly called & known by the name of Catarit farm. I also give him, one half of the note I have against him of 150 Dollars, if the same be unpaid at my decease. ~

  I Give and bequeath to my two daughters, Nancy Sampson & Desire Sampson, all my Household furniture & utensills & goods of all sorts, and implements for husbandry or gardening, that may be found in or about my house – Also my Chaise Harness & tackling, excepting some articles given my son Crocker by a Note under my hand – I also give them, one half of a well I rebuilt in Kingston in the year 1796.

  I also Give and bequeath to my three daughters Nancy Sampson, Lucy Jackson & Desire Sampson, all my wearing apparell of all sorts & kinds whatever, to be equally divided between them as they shall agree without any legal appraisement. ~

  I Give and bequeath to the Church of Christ in Kingston, the one half of a note I have on the State of Massachusetts for the sum of Five Hundred & three Dollars & three Cents, to be laid out in Silver Cups for the use of the Communion table, at the discretion of the Pastor & Deacons of said Church; the other half of said Note I give & bequeath to the Town of Kingston for the express purpose of building, rebuilding repairing or enlarging the School House on the lot Formerly given by Mr John Bradford deceased, for that purpose in the center of the town, to be under the direction, and at the discretion of the Select men for the time being, of the town of Kingston.–

  I do also constitute and appoint my two sons, Crocker Sampson & Joseph Sampson, to be the Executors of this my last will & testament, and to see every part and parcel thereof duly performed, and furthermore, my just debts & funeral charges to be paid from ye. amount of my Stock of Neat Cattle & Sheep, if any remain, I give the same to them equally.

   Also, My will is, that if any of my heirs shall bring any debt or demand against my estate, thus given away, it shall be paid them from that part of my estate by this will given to them.  And, I do hereby revoke & disannul all & every other will or testament, legacies or Executors ratifying and confirming this to be my last will & testament.  In Witness whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and seal this sixteenth day of February in the year of our Lord, one thousand seven hundred and ninety nine. ~

  Signed & Sealed in ye presence                                                                                      Desire Sampson                                (seal)

of us, who have hereunto subscri-

bed our names as witnesses in ye

presence of the testator

                Seth Drew

                Wrestling Brewster jr

                Harvey Stetson ~

 

        I Desire Sampson of Kingston, in the County of Plymouth widow, do make and publish this Codicil to my last will and testament in manner following, that is to say, that, whereas in and by my last will & testament, I have given & bequeathed to my son Josiah Sampson of Barnstable, all my real estate laying in the town & county of Barnstable as therein described, and also, the one half of a note I have against him of the sum of one hundred & fifty Dollars – I do hereby order & declare, that, my will is, that only the real estate mentioned in my last will & testament be given to him in full of the said legacy, I have as aforesaid given & bequeathed to him, and the remaining part, to wit, the one half of a Note of the sum of 150 Dollars, be given & paid to my son Crocker Sampson, in addition to the legacy given & bequeathed to him, in my last will & testament.  And whereas, in & by my last will & testament, I did give and bequeath to the Church of Christ in Kingston, the one half of a Note on the State of Massachusetts for the sum of 203 Dollars & 3 Cents, to be disposed of in manner as therein directed. And the other half to the town of Kingston for the building or repairing a School House, as therein mentioned.  And whereas since the Execution of my last will & testament, said Note hath been paid in part by order of the Legislature, and a note of recent date given for the remaining sum of 162 Dollars — I do further declare, that my will is, that the said Note of the State of Massachusetts of the sum of 162 Dollars be given in equal Moieties in manner & for the purposes as stated in my last will & testament, in full for the legacy therein given & bequeathed, and — Lastly, it is my desire, that this my present Codicil be annexed to, and made a part of my last will & testament, to all intents & purposes.

        In Witness whereof, I have hereunto set my hand & seal this fifteenth day of July in the year of our Lord, one thousand, eight hundred & three ~

  Signed, Sealed, Published &                                                                                           Desire Sampson                                (seal)

declared by ye. above named De-

sire Sampson, as a Codicil to be

annexed to her last will & testa

ment, in presence of           

                Seth Drew

                Samuel Stetson

                Wrestling Brewster jr

 

Presented for probate on 10 March 1804 by Crocker Sampson and Joseph Sampson, the Executors therein named, and proved by Seth Drew Esqr. and Wrestling Brewster junr, two of ye. witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Crocker Sampson, Gentleman, and Joseph Sampson, Esqr, the before named Executors, with Seth Drew Esqr. and Wrestling Brewster junr. yeoman, all of Kingston, as sureties.

No inventory of her estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 38, p. 522-526, from FHL microfilm #0550720.

 

 

Will & Codicil of Desire Sampson of Kingston, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1822) *

In the name of God Amen. I Desire Sampson of Kingston in the County of Plymouth do make this my last Will, hereby revoking all others, viz  I give to my sister Anne Sampson forever all my Household Furniture & Wearing Apparel, the same not to be inventoried.

Item, I give and devise to my said Sister Anne, during her life, the annual improvement, income & interest of all my other property Real & Personal. And in case the above, together with her own property, be not sufficient for the comfortable & decent support of said Anne, I then authorise and hereby require my Executor to provide for her support out of the principal of my Personal property, and, if necessary, by the sale of my Real Estate.

The above legacies and devises is to be in full of my said Sister’s share of my Estate as heir at Law.

        I hereby appoint sd Anne Sampson my sole Executrix.

In witness whereof I have hereto set my hand & seal, this Eleventh day of December in the year of our Lord Eighteen hundred & twenty two.

                                                                                                                                                Desire Sampson                                (seal)

Signed sealed & published by the above named

Desire to be her last Will & Testament in the presence of us who have

hereto subscribed our names as witnesses in their presence –

        Thomas P. Beal                                            Samuel Stetson

        Joseph Sampson                                          Nathl. Cushman

        Lucy Jackson.                                              Reuben Tower.

 

        Codicil to Desire Sampson’s Will

As to all the Estate both Real & Personal which I may leave, and which may not be disposed of by virtue of the provisions of my will,

        I give and devise the same to be equally divided between such of my nine Nieces and their heirs forever, as may survive me and my sister Anne Provided that if any of them should decease during either of our lives leaving children alive at the death of both of us, such children shall take the same share their Mother would have taken in case she had survived us both –

                In witness whereof I have to this Codicil to my Will set my hand & seal October 23 A D 1823 –

                                                                                                                                                Desire Sampson                                (seal)

Signed sealed & published in the Will

and Codicil of & by Desire Sampson in our presence who subscribed

the same in her presence

        Samuel Stetson

        Nathl Cushman

        Reuben Tower.

 

Probated on 12 Apr. 1830, and proved by Nathaniel Cushman and Reuben Tower, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration granted to Anne Sampson of Kingston.

 

James N. Sever, Merchant, Nathaniel Thomas, Gentleman, & John Sever, Esquire, all of Kingston, were appointed to appraise the estate of Desire Sampson, late of Kingston, Singlewoman, on 12 Apr. 1830. The inventory of her real estate and securities only, dated 6 May 1830, totaled $3033.80, including her homestead house & land in Kingston valued at $1000, 25 acres of woodland adjoining Jones River valued at $500, 17½ acres of pasture land between Plymouth and Kingston “taken on Exor from Thos. Jackson” valued at $225, 10 shares in Franklin Insurance Company worth $1000, and others. Anne Sampson, the Executrix, gave her oath to the inventory on 9 Aug. 1830.

 

* Transcribed from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 69, pp. 49-51, 316-317, from FHL microfilm #0555260.

 

 

Will of Ebenezer Sampson of Duxbury, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1771) *

The Last will and testament of Ebenezer Sampson of Duxborough in the county of Plymouth in the Province of the Massachusetts Bay New England yeoman—I The said Ebenezer Sampson being under many bodily infirmities yet of perfect mind and memory, thanks be Given to almighty God therefor, calling to mind the mortality of my Body, do upon Serious consideration make and Ordain these presents to my Last will & testament, to remain firm and inviolable forever—that is to say First of all I Give and recommend my soul into the hands of God that Gave, and my Body I recommend to the earth to be buried in decent christian manner at discretion of my Executor herein after named, nothing doubting but at the General resurrection I shall receive the same again by the almighty power of God, and touching such worldly Estate wherewith it has pleased God to bless me in this Life I Give and dispose of in the following manner & first.

Imprimis  I Give and bequeath unto Zeruiah Sampson my dear and Loving wife, all my moveable Estate after my debts and Funeral charges are paid out of the same, excepting what I shall hereafter name during her Life, to dispose of as she pleases, but if any thing remain after her death, to be equally divided among all my children

Item—I Give and bequeath unto my Son Nathan Sampson all my homestead Farm of Land, house and Barn, and all my Salt meadows and wood Land, all my Real Estate that I own, also my two Guns and Sword, Obliging him to pay as hereafter expressed and his taking care of and assisting his mother

Item—I Give and bequeath unto my daughter Rachel Sampson Five pounds Six shillings & eight pence Lawful money to be paid by my son Nathan Sampson in three years from my decease – I also Give my Daughter Rachel Six Good Sheep

Item—I Give and bequeath to my daughter Joanna Sampson Two pounds, thirteen shillings and four pence Lawful money, to be paid by my son Nathan in three years from my death

Item—I Give &c to my daughter Abigail Sampson Four pounds Lawful money to be paid by my son Nath in three years as above

Item—I give &c to my daughter Eunice Sampson Four pounds Lawful money to be paid by my son as above

Item—I Give &c to daughter Hannah Sampson Four pounds Lawful money to be paid by my son in three years as above

I Give each of my daughters that are unmarried a right to Live in the house while they remain unmarried, my will further is that my son Nathan Sampson be the Sole Executor of this my Last will and testament thus hoping that this Last will be kept and performed according to the true intent and meaning thereof—In witness whereof I the aforesaid Ebenezer Sampson, have hereunto sett my hand and seal this twenty third day of May One thousand seven hundred and seventy One

Signed Sealed and delivered by the                                                                                                   his

aforenamed Ebenezer Sampson to be his                                                                        Ebenezer  X  Sampson                       (seal)

Last will and testament in presence                                                                                                 mark

of us

                Nathaniel Sprague

                Daniel Loring

                Silvanus Drew ~

 

Presented for probate on 1 March 1779 by Nathan Sampson, the Executor therein named, and proved by Nathaniel Sprague and Silvanus Drew, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Nathan Sampson, the before named Executor.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Mr. Ebenezer Sampson, late of Duxborough, not dated, was appraised Warren Weston, Cornelius Delano and Simeon Soul, and totaled £2439.13.6, including his home farm and buildings valued at £1000, his salt meadow valued at £750, wood lot valued at £250, and £274.12 in livestock. The appraisers gave their oath to the inventory on 27 July 1779, and Nathan Sampson, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 2 Aug. 1779.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 25, p. 198-200, from FHL microfilm #0550713.

 

 

Will of Elijah Sampson of Duxbury, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1825) *

Be it remembered that I Elijah Sampson of Duxbury in the County of Plymouth, considering the uncertainty of this mortal life and being of sound and perfect mind and memory, blessed be Almighty God for the same, do make & publish this my last Will & Testament, (Viz.:)

   First I give & bequeath unto my beloved wife Hannah Sampson Two hundred dollars to be paid to her within ninety days after my decease by my Executor, which sum was mutually agreed upon at our marriage and these two hundred dollars according to our agreement and according to this my Will is all that she is to receive at my decease except what furniture she brought with her. It is my Will and it was our agreement that she is to have no part of my Real Estate or any other of my property besides the two hundred dollars.

   I also give and bequeath unto my son Martin Sampson Two hundred dollars.

   I also give and bequeath unto my son Thomas Sampson Two hundred dollars.

   I also give & bequeath unto Eden Sampson my son Two hundred dollars.

   I also give & bequeath unto the four children which my daughter Hannah Ventress left Twenty five dollars each to be put out at interest and paid to them severally with the compound interest when they come of age.

   I also give & bequeath to my son Thomas Sampson in addition to the above legacy all my Real Estate together with the wood that may be remaining in the Wood house at my decease.

        The above legacies will be in proportion as I may leave money to be divided, except my Wife who is to receive Two hundred dollars.

        It is my Will that my wife shall have the quite possession of the house, the provisions, wood &c till she receives her legacy after which she is to remove as soon as may be convenient.

        It is my Will also that my wearing apparel, tools, household furniture, beds, linen &c be equally divided (except the Clock which I give to my son Thomas) between my two sons Thomas Sampson & Eden Sampson.

        And I hereby appoint Martin Sampson my son Sole Executor of this my last Will & Testament, hereby revoking all former Wills by me made.

        In witness whereof I have set my hand and seal this first day of January in the Year of Our Lord One thousand eight hundred and twenty five, 1825.

                                                                                                                                                Elijah Sampson                (seal)

Signed, sealed, published & declared by the above named Elijah Sampson to be his last Will & Testament in the presence of us who at his request and in his presence have hereunto subscribed our names as witnesses to the same

        Seth Sprague Jr

        Ralph Partridge

        Welthea Sprague

 

Presented for probate on 25 Nov. 1834, and proved by Seth Sprague Jr and Ralph Partridge, two of the subscribing witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Martin Sampson on 25 Nov. 1834.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Elijah Sampson was appraised on 29 Nov. 1835 by Seth Sprague Jr., Ralph Partridge and George P. Richardson, his real estate totaled $670, including his house and homestead valued at $650, and his personal estate totaled $91.50. Martin Sampson, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 15 Feb. 1836.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 76, p. 537-539, from FHL microfilm #0555263, and Vol. 78, p. 20.

 

 

Will of Esther Sampson of Kingston, Plymouth County, Massachusetts Bay (1782) *

In the name of God Amen – I Esther Sampson of Kingston in the County of Plymouth; Labouring under indisposition of body, but of perfect mind & memory, make this my Last will & testament as follows

Imprimis– I Commit my body to the dust to be decently buried by my Executor hereafter mentioned & my Spirit into the hands of God who Gave it in hopes of a Glorious Resurrection to Immortal Life – after my funeral Charges & my Just Debts are paid, I Give unto my Son Micah Sampson Two pounds in money, also a pair of Silver Shoe buckles

Item– I Give and bequeath all the Remainder of my Estate wherever it may be found unto my Daughter Priscilla Sampson, & I Constitute & appoint my trusty & well Respected friend Cornelius Sampson to be the Guardian of my two aforesaid Children, Micah & Priscilla. I also Constitute & appoint Cornelius Sampson to be my Executor of this my Last will – In Testimony whereof I have hereunto Set my hand & Seal this tenth day of May in the year of our Lord one thousand, seven hundred & Eighty two 1782 – & in the presence of

Samuel Stetson

Abner Holmes                                                                                                                      Esther Sampson                                (seal)

Joseph Sampson

 

Presented for probate on 7 Oct. 1782 by Cornelius Sampson, the Executor therein named, and proved by Samuel Stetson and Joseph Sampson, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Cornelius Sampson, the before named Executor.

 

John Faunce and Jedediah Holmes, yeoman, and Samuel Stetson, Cordwainer, all of Kingston, were appointed to appraise the estate of Esther Sampson, late of Kingston, widow, on 7 Oct. 1782. The Inventory, dated 24 Feb. 1785, totaled £59.8.3, no real estate. Cornelius Sampson, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 4 Apr. 1787.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 28, p. 481-482, from FHL microfilm #0550715, and Vol. 30, p. 116.

 

 

Will of George Sampson of Plympton, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1826) *

                Be it remembered, that I George Sampson of Plympton, in the State of Massachusetts, being of sound mind and memory, do make and publish this my last Will and Testament in manner and form following.

First, I give and bequeath unto my beloved wife Hannah Sampson the use and improvement of my homestead farm, with the Bisbee lot so called, with the buildings thereon, lying and being in sd. Plympton, during her life. I also give and bequeath to my sd. wife Hannah Sampson, my camblet cloak, my chaise, and my part of the farming tools, on sd. farm, and also my part of the cattle, sheep, & horse on sd. farm. – also six cords of oak, & four cords of pine wood, to be delivered at my dwelling-house on sd. farm annually, and cut up for the fire, to be delivered by my Executors and herein after provided.

I also give to my wife Hannah Sampson the use of one third part of my pew, on the lower floor of the Revd. Mr. Dexter’s meeting house, during her life. I also give to my wife Hannah Sampson for her use during her life all the interest arising on such sums of money as may be left of my Estate after paying my debts and funeral charges, and bequeath to my sd. wife Hannah Sampson all my household furniture for her own to dispose of as she thinks best.

Secondly. I give and bequeath to my son Joseph Sampson all my wearing apparel, except the cloak given to my wife Hannah Sampson. I give to my son George Sampson my silver headed cane. I give to my son Schuyler Sampson my ivory headed cane. I give and devise to my sons John Sampson and Joseph Sampson equally my pew on the lower floor of the Revd. Mr. Dexter’s meeting-house and my one half of a pew in the south gallery of the same meeting house reserving to my wife Hannah Sampson her right in the sd. first mentioned pew as above stated.

Third, I give and devise to my sons Zabdiel Sampson, John Sampson, Joseph Sampson, and Schuyler Sampson, equally all my woodlands, viz. a wood lot lying & being in the town of Carver known by the name of the pine hill lot, also a lot of Cedar swamp lying & being in that part of the town of Carver called south meadows, and is the same of which my father died seized, also a wood lot known by the name of the Snappit lot and near to the farm in Plympton formerly owned by Capt. Nathaniel Carver, deceased.

Fourth, I give and devise unto my sons Zabdiel Sampson, John Sampson, Joseph Sampson, and Schuyler Sampson, all my homestead farm with the buildings thereon including the Bisbee lot so called, lying in sd. Plympton, reserving only the improvement of the same to my wife Hannah Sampson during her life, as given in the first article aforesd.; on condition that they the sd. Zabdiel, John, Joseph, & Schuyler, pay the following Legacies to the following legatees, and for the payment of which sd. homestead farm is to remain a security, viz. to Sally Sampson wife of my son George Sampson, one hundred & fifty dollars; to my grand-child William M. Sampson, one hundred dollars; to my grand-child Leonice M. Sampson, forty dollars; to my grand-child Caroline M. Sampson ten dollars; to my grand-child Susan C. Sampson seventy five dollars; to my grand-child Mary B. Sampson, seventy-five dollars; to my daughter Hannah S. Ballard one hundred and fifty dollars; and to my son Joseph Sampson, two hundred dollars; and that the sd. Zabdiel, John, Joseph, and Schuyler pay sd. legacies to sd. legatees, in two years after the decease of my wife Hannah Sampson, with interest after the decease of my sd. wife; and I do give & devise sd. farm to my wife six cords of oak and four cords of pine wood, annually during her life, the wood to be delivered and cut for use in pieces suitable for burning, which wood is the same as given to my wife, by the first article aforesaid.

Fifth, As to the remainder of my estate real and personal, my will is that it be sold by my Executors, and that the proceeds together with all debts, cash, dues, & demands, when collected by my executors, shall, after payment of all my debts and funeral charges, be by them put on interest, either in public stocks or notes, as they shall think most proper, and the interest arising thereon I give and bequeath to my wife Hannah Sampson during her life, to be paid to her annually by my executors when received, and at the decease of my wife Hannah Sampson, my will is that the money thus secured on interest be then divided, and paid over by my executors to the following persons or their heirs in the following manner and proportions, viz. to my son Zabdiel Sampson, one eighth part; to my grand-child George W. Sampson one eighth part; to my grand child Leonice M. Sampson one third of one eighth part; to my grand-child William M. Sampson two thirds of one eighth part; to my son John Sampson one eighth part; to my grand-child Susan C. Sampson one half of one eighth part, and to my grand-child Mary B. Sampson one half of one eight part; to my son Joseph Sampson one eighth part; to my son Schuyler Sampson one eighth part; and to my daughter Hannah S. Ballard one eighth part; and I do give to my grand-son William M. Sampson my watch.

Sixth. Whereas I hold a note against my son Zabdiel Sampson for five hundred dollars; one against my son George Sampson, one against my son Marston Sampson, deceased, one against my son John Sampson, one against my son Alvan Sampson deceased, one against my son Joseph Sampson; one against my son Schuyler Sampson, and one against my daughter Hannah S. Ballard, each for the same sum of five hundred dollars, my will is, and I do hereby direct my Executors, to give up sd notes to the promisors or their heirs, and that no demand be made for them either for the principal or interest. And, lastly, I do hereby appoint Zabdiel Sampson, John Sampson, Joseph Sampson, and Schuyler Sampson Executors of this my last Will & Testament, hereby revoking all former Wills by me made.

In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this fourteenth day of April in the year of our Lord eighteen hundred and twenty-six.

Signed, sealed, published,

and declared by the above                                                                                                 George Sampson                             (seal)

named George Sampson to

be his last Will & Testament, in the presence of us, who at his request and in his presence, have hereunto subscribed our names as witnesses to the same.

                                                                                                                                                                Simeon Loring

                                                                                                                                                                Richard Cooper Jr.

                                                                                                                                                                John Sampson 2d.

 

Presented for probate on 19 Feb. 1827 by Zabdiel Sampson, John Sampson, Joseph Sampson, and Schuyler Sampson, the Executors therein named, and proved by Simeon Loring and John Sampson 2d, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Zabdiel Sampson, John Sampson, Joseph Sampson, and Schuyler Sampson, the before named Executors.

 

Pelham Holmes Esqr., Jonathan Parker Esqr. and Simeon Loring, Yeoman, all of Plympton, were appointed to appraise the Estate of George Sampson, late of Plympton, yeoman, on 19 Feb. 1827. The Inventory of the Estate of George Sampson, late of Plympton, totaled $10,046.18, including his real estate valued at $3991. Zabdiel Sampson, John Sampson, Joseph Sampson, and Schuyler Sampson, the Executors, gave their oath to the inventory on 18 June 1827.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 63, p. 313-317, from FHL microfilm #0550912, and Vol. 64, p. 109-111.

 

 

Will of Hannah Sampson of Plympton, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1836) *

        Be it Remembered, that, I Hannah Sampson of Plympton in the County of Plymouth, Mass. Widow, do make and ordain this my last Will and Testament –

        To my son George Sampson of Duxbury, I give the bed and clothing attatched to it, in the South bed-room.

        To my daughter Hannah, the wife of Roswell Bullard, I give the bed in the front room, with the clothing attatched to it, a pair of Andirons with brass tops, and all of my wearing apparel.

        To my son Joseph Sampson I give the remainder of all my household and kitchen furniture, and every other species of property and debts due me, on condition that he pay the demands I may owe, with my burial charges – and further the above named legacies to my son George, and daughter Hannah, shall be a bar against any claim that the said George, or Roswell the husband of the said Hannah may bring against my estate –

        The above legacies are given also considering that the said Legatees have in the distribution of my late husbands estate received so much less than my other children, whose names are as follows, Zabdiel, Marston, John, Alvan, Schuyler and Caroline,

        Finally I desire my son Joseph Sampson to execute this my last Will and Testament in Plymouth Sept 1st, 1836

                                                                                                                                                                her

                                                                                                                                                Hannah   +  Sampson                         (seal)

                                                                                                                                                                mark

Witness ourselves, being present, and in the textatrix presence.

Martha Churchill

Sarah T. Sampson

Schuyler Sampson

 

Presented for probate on 5 Dec. 1836 by Joseph Sampson, the Executor therein named, and proved by Sarah T. Sampson and Schuyler Sampson, two of the witnesses. Letters Testamentary were granted to Joseph Sampson, the Executor therein named.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 78, p. 504-506, from FHL microfilm #0555264.

 

 

Will of Henry Sampson of Duxbury, Colony of New Plymouth (1684) *

Duxburrow this 24th of the :10th 1684

The Last Will and Testament of henery Sampson of duxburrow

In the Name of God Amen

Know all prsons whom it my Concerne the I henery Sampson being in my Right understanding doe thuse will and bequeth my estate to be disposed of, after my death

1 I doe Comitt and Comend my soule to God that gave it mee whom I trust hath Redemed it; and my body to the earth for a season; desiring that I may be decently buried;

2 It is my will that all psonall debts be payed out of my psonall estate; and that my funerall Charges before my Legacyes

3 I doe Give and bequeath unto my son Stephen one third prte of my whole estate after purchase of Land lying and being in the Township of Dartmouth;

4 I doe Give unto my Son John one thirds of my whole purchase of Lands lying and being within the Township of Dartmouth;

5 I Give and bequeath unto my Son James The Remaining prte of the other third of my Land lying within the Towneship of Dartmouth; that is thuse Joseph Russell is to have the Land which was my son Jameses Sold to him the said Russell; and I [can’t read] it taken out of the Last third; and the Remainder is that which I doe bequeath to my son James for hee had the Money for the Land that was sold to the abovesaid Russell;

6 I doe further give and bequeath unto my son James one shilling;

7 I doe give and bequeath unto my son James Caleb one Shilling;

8 I doe Give unto my daughter Elizabeth now the wife of Roberd Sprout one shilling;

9 I doe Give and bequeath unto my daughter hannah now the wife of Josias holmes one shillinge;

10 It: I doe give and bequeath unto my Daughter Mon the wife of John Rammone ten shillings;

11 I doe Give and bequeath unto Won of my Daughter Now the wife of John Summers; one shillinge

12 I doe give unto my Daughter Dorcas now the wife of Thomas Bony one shillinge

13 I doe Constitute ordaine and appoint; my son Stephen to be executor of this my Last Will and Testament to pay all my Debts and Legacyes and to Receive all dues,.

14 It is my desire that my trusty and honored friend Mr Wiswall would be the overseer of this My last Will and Testament; Thuse desireing to waite untill my Change shalbe; and that those that Come after mony be all Psone[?]; I shall subscribe with my hand and seale the Day & yeer above expressed; signed and sealed in the prsense of the

witnesses; Thomas Delano                                                                                Henery Sampson                 (seal)

                Joseph Chaundeler                                                                              his H Marke

 

Thomas Delano & Joseph Chandeler made oath in Court the 5th of March             1684/85 that they see henery Sampson signe seale and declare this to be his Last will and Testament; and that to the best of theire Judgment hee was of a Disposeing mind when hee soe Did;

 

                Duxburrow this 24 of the 12 1684

An Inventory take of the estate of the Late deceased henery Sampson of duxburrow by us whose Names are underwritten;

[Totaled £106.14.0]

                                                                                                                                Thomas Delano

                                                                                                                                Joseph Chandeler

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth Colony Records, Wills Vol. 4, Part 2, p. 94-95.

 

 

Will of Isaac Sampson of Middleborough, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1748) *

In the Name of God. Amen. This Twenty Third Day of February Annoq Domini one thousand Seven hundred & Forty Eight I Isaac Sampson of Middleborough in the County of Plimouth in the Province of the Massachusets Bay in New England Yeoman Do make and ordain this my Last Will and Testeman First I Give my Soule To God that Gave it and my Body To the Ground To be Buryed after my Decease at the Discretion of my Executor hereafter named and as Touching my Worldly Estate that it hath pleased God To Bless Me I Give and Dispose of the Same in the Following Mannor and Form Imprimis I Give To Eliza My Dearly Beloved Wife the use and Improvement of ye. one Half of my Now Dwelling house During her Being my Widow and Two Milche Cows and Twelve Sheep and also Fifteen Bushels of Indian Corn a year yearly During her Being my Widdo. And Five Bushels of Rye Yearly also During her Being my Widdow and her Firewood Yearly and Every Year of her Widow hood Cutt fit for the fire at the Door and the use of a riding Beast as she Shall need for her occation and the use of Such a part of the Househould Stuff During her Widow hood as She Sees Cause, and also I Give her one Bed and the Furniture Belonging to it For Ever as the Cows and Sheep are.

Item. I Give To My Son Uriah BeSides What I have alredy given him Five Shilling Old Tenour or an Equivalent in New and that With What I have already Given him To be his portion Now Ratifying his Deed of Gift of his Lands.—

Item I Give To my Son John and the Same to be To him and his Heirs and assigns for Ever all my Real Estate that I have In Middleborough aforesaid or Else Where Consisting of Housen and Lands on Conditions hereafter Mentioned that is to Say he in No ways Interupting his Brother Uriah in what I have Given him By Deed of Gift and also his providing for his Mother her Firewood at the Door keeping her Two Cows and Twelve Sheep Winter and Sumer and finding her a Beast To ride on as above Expressed and also the Fifteen Bushels of Indian Corn and five of Rye Yearly During her Being my Widdo. & quieting her in ye. Possession of ye. one Half my Dwelling house During her Widdowhood & paying unto the Rest of his Breatheren Such Legacyes as I Shall hereafter order him also I do hereby appoint and authorize him My Said Son John Sole Executor of this my Last Will & Testement & I Do also on ye. Same Conditions give him all My out Door Moveables He Delivering To My Said Widdow her Two Cows and Twelve Sheep as above Given her and giving her the Bed and Furniture as above Expressed & also he To pay all Just Debts and Funeral Charges ~

Item~ I Give To My Son Isaac The Sum of Three Hundred pounds To be Paid By my Son John Accounting it at Silver at Fourty Five Shillings an ounce and that To be payed him Within Eighteen Months after my Decease –

Item~ I Give To My Son Jacob the Sum of three Hundred Pounds Accounting it as Silver at Fourty five Shillings an ounce and the Same To be paid him by my Executor Within Two years after my Decease: Item: I Give To my Seven Daughter viz Sarah Elizabeth Margrett Lydia Anna Hannah & Phebe Twelve pounds apeice that is to Say Twelve Pounds Each of them To be accounted at Silver at Forty five Shillings an ounce and the Same To be paid By my Said Son John My Executor Within Two Years after my Decease & In Case of the Death of Either of them before payment To be paid To there Heirs also I Give them all my Indoor Moveables Tobe Equally Divided Betwen them after my Widdo. Has Taken out What I have given her and also her Moveables at her Marriage I Give her an Equal Shair With my said Daughters To Carray To another Husband if She See Cause and marry again, but if She Dye my Widdo. then what Moveables I Give her Be Equally Divided Betwen My Daughters: and my Will is that my Son John in no Ways Interupt My Widdo. & Daughters by Taking any part of my Indores Moveables To pay any Legacyes with, but that he do it out of the Estate Given him as above Expresed he To Suport his aged Grandmouther During her Natural Life & also my Will is that my Other Estate Whether Real or personal that I Shall Dye Seized of that I have not in this Will disposed of I Give it my Sd. Son John & to be to him & his Heirs for Ever, Finally I Revoke any former Will By me Made and Ratifying this only to be my Last Will & Testamt. In Witness Whereof I have hereunto Set my Hand & Seal the Day and Year above Written –

                                                                                                                                                Isaac Samson                                    (seal)

Signed Sealed Published pronounced & Declared

By the Said Isaac Samson as his Last Will & Testament

in presents of

Nathll. Samson

Joseph Paddock

Barnabas Samson

Stephan  X  Macomber

 

Presented for probate on 7 May 1750 by Uriah Samson, John Samson ye. Execr. therein named being dead, and proved by Joseph Paddock and Nathll. Samson, two of the witnesses.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Isaac Samson, late of Middleborough, was appraised by Nathll. Southworth, Thomas Nelson junr., and Mark Haskall, on 10 May 1750, and totaled £785.3.2, including his real estate house and land with other buildings and a saw mill valued at £613.6.8. Uriah Samson, the Execr. Cum Testamento annexo on the Estate, gave his oath to the inventory on 4 June 1750.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 12, pp. 342-343, 70, from FHL microfilm #0551539.

 

 

Will of Jeremiah Sampson of Kingston, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1828) *

In the name of God, Amen, I Jeremiah Sampson of Kingston in the County of Plymouth, and Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Housewright, being of sound and perfect mind and memory, considering the uncertainty of this mortal life, make and ordain this my last Will and Testament, that is to say first of All, I give and recommend my soul into the hands of God that gave it, hoping through the merits of Christ for eternal life, my body I commit to the earth to be decently buried at the direction of my Executor and with respect to my worldly estate which God has blessed me with in this life, I give and demise and dispose in manner following, (that is to say)

        Imprimis, All my debts of which there are but few and none of magnitude are to be punctually and speedily paid.

        Item, to my dearly beloved wife Sarah Sampson I give and bequeath the use, profit and benefit of my whole estate Real & Personal for the term of her natural life, except my household furniture, I give and bequeath to my said wife Sarah all my household furniture free and clear at her disposal.

        Item, Upon the decease of my wife it is my Will and desire that all my real and personal estate be divided amongst all my legal heirs in the same manner as if I had died intestate except such parts thereof as are specially disposed of.

        And I do hereby appoint Zebadiah Thomson of Halifax sole Executor of this my last Will and Testament hereby revoking all former Wills made by me.

        In witness of all and each of the things herein contained I have hereunto set my hand and seal this eleventh day of September in the Year of Our Lord one thousand eight hundred and twenty eight.

                                                                                                                                                Jeremiah Sampson          (seal)

Signed, sealed and declared by the above named Jeremiah

Sampson to be his last Will and Testament in presence of us who in

the presence of the Testator and of each other have hereunto sub

scribed our names as witnesses.

        Benjamin Waterman

        Stephen Bradford

        Otis Waterman

 

Probated on 5 Oct. 1830, and proved by Stephen Bradford and Otis Waterman, two of the witnesses. Letters of administration granted to Zebadiah Thomson of Halifax.

 

Dexter C. Thomson of Halifax, Esq., and Otis Waterman & Oliver Everson, both of Kingston, yeomen, were appointed to appraise the estate of Jeremiah Sampson, late of Kingston, Housewright, on 5 Oct. 1830. The Inventory, dated 7 Oct. 1830, totaled $1327.17, including his Real Estate valued at $241.66, Personal Estate valued at $920.65, furniture $136.71, and his wearing apparel $28.15. Zabadiah Thomson, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 5 Apr. 1831.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 69, p. 406-407, and Vol. 70, p. 189, both from FHL microfilm #0555260.

 

 

Will of Job Sampson of Duxbury, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1819) *

                In the name of God Amen. I Job Sampson of Duxbury in the County of Plymouth, considering the uncertainty of this mortal life, and being of sound and perfect mind & memory, blessed by Almighty God for the same, do make and publish this my last will and Testament in manner and form following, that is to say.

 First I give and bequeath unto my beloved wife Betsey Sampson the whole of my household furniture for her sole use and improvement during her natural life; I also give and bequeath unto my said wife comfortable and convenient apartments in my Dwelling house, and also in my pew in the meeting house, for her separate use and improvement during her natural life; and it is my will herein that in consideration of her right and power of thirds in my Estate which I give and bequeath unto my two sons herein after named, that she shall be by and at the expense of my said sons suitably and comfortably provided for, with all the necessaries of life both in sickness and health; and it is my will herein, that at or before the proving of this my last will and Testament, my two said sons, shall give to my said wife, good & sufficient security, by Bond or otherwise for the faithful performance of the abovesaid conditions.

 Secondly. I give and bequeath unto my beloved Daughter Betsey Power wife of Thomas Power one hundred dollars in addition to what I gave her at her marriage.

 Thirdly. I give and bequeath unto my beloved Daughter Judith Sampson four hundred dollars. I also give unto my said Daughter Judith the use and improvement of one room in my dwelling house suitable for her to live in, and other necessary privileges for convenience in and about, said house, and also a right to one seat in my pew in the meeting house so long as she shall remain single and unmarried, all which said several legacies or sums of money I will, and order shall be paid by my Executors as soon as may be after my decease.

 Fourthly. I give and bequeath unto my two sons Henry B Sampson and William Sampson their heirs and assigns forever, all the messuage or tenement, situate, lying and being in Duxbury aforesaid together with all my other freehold or real Estate whatsoever and wheresoever situate, equally to be divided between them.

And as to all the rest residue and remainder of my personal Estate, goods and chattels, of what kind and nature soever (excepting my household furniture) I give and bequeath the same to my said beloved sons Henry B Sampson and William Sampson equally to be divided between them.

  And Lastly as to my household furniture, my will is, that after the decease of my beloved wife, the same shall be equally divided between my four beloved Children legatees above named.

 And I do hereby appoint my beloved sons Henry B Sampson and William Sampson joint Executors of this my last will and Testament, hereby revoking all former wills by me made.

        In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal the fourth day of August in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and nineteen.

  Signed, Sealed, published & declared

by the above named Job Sampson

to be his last will and Testament

in presence of us, witnesses                                                                                               Job Sampson                                        (seal)

Studley Sampson

Zeneth Wadsworth

Joshua Cushing Jr

 

Presented for probate on 8 Nov. 1822 by Henry B Sampson and William Sampson, the Executors therein named, and proved by Studley Sampson, Zeneth Wadworth and Joshua Cushing, the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Henry B Sampson and William Sampson, the before named Executors.

 

  To the Hon Wilkes Wood Esquire Judge of Probate of wills &c for the County of Plymouth.

        This is to signify to your Honour that I have thought proper to wave, and I do hereby wave the provision made for me in the will of my late husband Job Sampson, late of Duxbury deceased, and claim my Dower of his Estate; I therefore pray that your honour would order the same to be assigned and set off to me, as the law in such cases directs.

                                                                                                                                                Betsey Sampson

        Dated at Duxbury the fifteenth day of November A D 1822.

 

Studley Sampson, Gent, Avery Richards, chaisemaker and Joshua Cushing, shipwright, all of Duxbury, were appointed to appraise the Estate of Job Sampson, late of Duxbury, Mariner, on 18 Nov. 1822. The Inventory of the Estate of Job Sampson, late of Duxbury, was dated 12 Dec. 1822, his real estate valued at $2800.00, and his personal estate totaled $750.00, including one third of the Schooner Francis valued at $333.33. William Sampson, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 16 Dec. 1822.

 

Studley Sampson, Gent., Avery Richards, Chaisemaker, and Joshua Cushing, Shipwright, all of Duxbury and all Freeholders, were appointed to set off one third part of the Real Estate of Job Sampson, late of Duxbury, to the widow Betsey Sampson as her dower in the estate on 18 Nov. 1822. The division was dated 12 Dec. 1822, and approved on 16 Dec. 1822.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 56, pp. 248-251, 318-320, from FHL microfilm #0550909.

 

 

Will of John Sampson of Duxbury, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1804) *

  In the Name of God amen I John Samson of Duxbury calling unto mind the mortality of my Body & knowing it is appointed for all men once to die, do make & ordain this my last Will and Testament that is to say principally & first of all I give & recommend my Soule into the hand of Almighty God that gave it, & my Body I recommend to the Earth to be buried in decent Christian Burial at the discretion of my Executor nothing doubting but at the General Resurrection I shall receive the same again by the mighty Power of God & as touching such worldly Estate wherewith it hath pleased God to bless me with in this Life, I give demise & dispose of the same in the following manner & form.

   First I give to my wife Abigail Samson the Improvement of the Southerly half of my dwelling house and the Improvement of one third of my real Estate & one half my indoor moveables to improve so long as she remains my Widow & one Cow I order my two Sons Andrew Samson junr. & Lewis Samson to provide wood sufficient for a fire for their Mother at the Door off of her third part of the Wood Lot so long as she remains my Widow.

   Also I give to my Son Silvanus Samson ten Dollars to be paid out of my Estate by my Executors –

   Also I give to my Son Andrew Samson junr. the southerly part of my homest. farm & the Sat meadow adjoining together with all the Buildings thereon being the whole that I bought of Samuel Feza & the one half of my Salt meadow lying at the Gurnet so called and the one half of my Wood lot that I bought of Prince Wadsworth —

        I give to my Son Lewis the northerly part of my homest. farm together with the Buildings thereon being the whole that I bought of Samuel Partridge excepting a a lane down to the Brook twenty four feet wide so that Andrew shall have the privilege of coming to water with his Cattle along by the Meadow fence and Andrew shall maintain the fence of said Lane — Also I give to Lewis the other half of my woodlot I bought of Prince Wadsworth & the other half of my Salt Meadow at the Gurnet, & the whole of my Meadow lying at Duck hill so called –

   Also I give to my two sons Andrew & Lewis my land lying on the westerly side of Plymouth road that I bought of Uriah Wadsworth to be equally divided between them both. –

   Also I give to my two Sons Andrew & Lewis my out door moveables and and my Stock to be divided equally betwixt them both —

        Also I give to Hannah Samson Widow Relict of my Son John Samson deceasd. five Dollars to be paid by my Executor —

        Also I give to my six Daughters Lucy Bradford the Wife of William Bradford Selah Samson, Polly Samson, Dolly Samson, Clarissa Cobb the Wife of Lemuel Cobb & Rebecca Samson the other half of my indoor moveables to be equally divided betwixt them all, & what remains of the other half of the indoor moveables at my Wifes decease, if any their be equally alike —

        Also I give to my six daughters above mentioned one hundred Dollars to each of them making six hundred Dollars to them all to be paid out of my Estate by my two Sons Andrew & Lewis equal alike And lastly as to all the residue and remainder of my Estate of what kind & nature soever I give to my two Sons Andrew & Lewis.  And I hereby appoint my son Andrew Samson junr Sole Executor of this my last will and Testament, hereby revoking all former Wills by me made. In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand & Seal this eighth day of February in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and four 1804

Signed sealed published & declared by the above

named John Samson to be his last Will and

Testament in the presence of us who at his

request & in his presence have hereunto sub-

scribed our Names as Witnessess to the same                                                               John Sampson                                   (seal)

                Ezekiel Soul

                Freeman Loring

                Lot Hale

 

Presented for probate on 11 Nov. 1805 by Andrew Samson junr. the Executor therein named, and proved by Ezekiel Soul, Freeman Loring and Lot Hall, the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Andrew Samson junr. the before named Executor.

 

Ezekiel Soul, yeoman, Freeman Loring, Gentleman, and Benjamin Alden, yeoman, all of Duxbury, were appointed to appraiser the estate of John Sampson, late of Duxbury, yeoman, on 11 Nov. 1805. The inventory, not dated, totaled $4225.65, including his homestead farm and buildings and meadow adjoining valued at $2538. Andrew Sampson junr., the Executor, gave is oath to the inventory on 29 Nov. 1805.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 40, pp. 299-301, 349, from FHL microfilm #0550901.

 

 

Will of John Sampson of Middleborough, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1819) *

                                In the name of God Amen. I John Sampson of Middleborough in the County of Plymouth Yeoman, being weak in body but of sound mind and memory, blessed by Almighty God for the same, do make & publish this my last will & Testament in manner & form following, that is to say.

                                First I give & bequeath to my beloved sons Samuel & Obadiah Sampson all my land Cedar swamp & Meadow laying in Middleborough, Plympton & Carver, that I have not already disposed of in equal undivided shares, between the said Samuel Sampson, & Obadiah Sampson, by their settling my Estate paying all charges & all my just debts.

                                Secondly I give & bequeath to all my beloved Children viz Samuel Sampson, Obadiah Sampson, Nathan Sampson, Mercy Sampson, & Rebecca Hollis & Elizabeth Soul, all my live stock, farming implements, & household goods of every kind soever to be equally divided between & among the abovsaid Samuel, Obadiah & Nathan & Mercy Elizabeth & Rebecca in addition to what I have done & paid for them heretofore. In particularly I have heretofore given to my said son Nathan Sampson one undivided half of a farm laying in Hartford in the province of Maine & to my beloved Daughter Mercy Sampson a Deed of one undivided halff of all my real Estate laying in Middleborough, Plympton & Carver.

                                Lastly I do hereby appoint my two sons the said Samuel Sampson & Obadiah Sampson joint Executors of this my last Will & Testament hereby revoking all former wills by me made.

                                In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand & seal the twelfth day of November in the year of Our Lord one thousand eight hundred & nineteen.

Signed, Sealed, published & declared by the

above named John Sampson to be his last

will & Testament in the presence of us who                                                                  John Sampson                                   (seal)

have hereunto subscribed our names as wit-

nesses in the presence of the Testator

Samuel Shaw

Lydia Shaw

Neheh Cobb

 

Presented for probate on 6 Nov. 1821 by Samuel Sampson and Obadiah Sampson, the Executors therein named, and proved by Samuel Shaw and Nehemiah Cobb Esquire, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Samuel Sampson and Obadiah Sampson, the before named Executors.

 

Nehemiah Cobb Esq. of Carver, Samuel Shaw yeoman, and Benjamin Pratt yeoman, both of Middleborough, were appointed to appraise the estate of John Sampson, late of Middleborough, yeoman, on 6 Nov. 1821. The inventory, dated 13 Nov. 1821, totaled only $195.99, no real estate. Samuel Samson and Obadiah Samson, the Executors, gave their oath to the inventory on 4 Mar. 1822.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 54, pp. 99-100, 375, from FHL microfilm #0550908.

 

 

Will of Joseph Sampson of Kingston, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1804) *

   In the name of God amen. the ninth day of August in the Year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and four  —  1804.

   I Joseph Sampson of Kingston in the County of Plymouth in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts Esqr. considering the uncertainty of this mortal Life & being of sound and disposing Mind & Memory do make and ordain this my last will and Testament in Manner & form following, that is to say ~

   In the first place I give and bequeath unto my loving Wife Judith Sampson all & the whole of my indoor & outdoor personal Estate, Goods and Chattels of what kind and nature soever, excepting publick and private Securities for money, to belong to her without the formality of an appraisment I also give and bequeath to my said Wife the one one third part of all my publick and private Securities for money she paying all my just debts funeral Expences, and charges of settling my Estate therefrom, I also give and bequeath to my said Wife the use and Improvement of the whole of my real Estate untill my Son Joseph shall arrive to the Age of twenty one years or untill her second Marriage after either of which she to have the Improvement of but one third part thereof during her natural Life. –

        I give and bequeath unto my Son Joseph Sampson two third parts of all my real Estate to come into possession thereof when he shall arrive to the Age of twenty one years, or on my Wife’s second Marriage I also give and bequeath to my said Son the one third part of my publick and private Securities for money to come into possession thereof immediately after my decease –

        I give and bequeath unto my Daughter Betsey Sampson one third part of my real Estate, to come into possession thereof when my Son Joseph shall arrive to the Age of twenty one years, or at my Wife’s second Marriage, I also give and bequeath unto my said daughter the one third part of my publick & private Securities for Money, to come into possession thereof immediately after my decease –

        I do also hereby appoint my Wife Judith Sampson to be guardian to my Son Joseph and Daughter Betsey during their Minority if she remains so long unmarried –

        Lastly I do hereby constitute and appoint my loving Wife Judith Sampson and Mr John Faunce of Kingston, to be Executors of this my last Will and Testament hereby revoking all former Wills by me made in Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand & Seal the day & Year above mentioned ~~

Signed sealed and declared by the said Joseph

Sampson to be his last Will & Testament in presence

of us -     John Gray

                Crocker Sampson                                                                                                Joseph Sampson                               (seal)

                William Bradford

 

Presented for probate on 23 Aug. 1804 by Judith Sampson and John Faunce, the Executors therein named, and proved by John Gray and Crocker Sampson, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Judith Sampson and John Faunce, the before named Executors.

 

John Gray Esqr. and Nathaniel Thomas, Gentleman, both of Kingston, and Samuel Loring, of Duxbury, were appointed to appraise the estate of Joseph Sampson, late of Kingston, Esqr., on 23 Aug. 1804. The Inventory of the Estate of Joseph Sampson, late of Kingston, was dated 1 Oct. 1804, his real estate totaled $11,405.08, including his homestead with the buildings and 27 acres of land valued at $2700, a tract of land lying in Duxbury of 70 acres valued at $4200, 2 pieces of salt meadow lying in Duxbury valued at $2600, a tract of land purchased of Anne Sampson on Jones’s River, and several other parcels of land, about $3123.74 in public securities, and $996.90 in private securities, but his other personal inventory was not listed. Judith Sampson and John Faunce, the Executors, gave their oath to the inventory on 1 Oct. 1804.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 40, p. 109-110, from FHL microfilm #0550901.

 

 

Will of Mercy Sampson of Middleborough, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1809) *

        In the Name of God amen I Mercy Sampson of Middleborough, County of Plymouth & Commonwealth of Massachusetts Widow, considering the great uncertainty of human Life & being of sound & perfect Mind & Memory, blessed be Almighty God for the same, do make & publish this my last Will & Testament in Manner & form following –

        In the first place I commend my immortal Soul to God who gave it hoping & trusting in his infinite Mercy & Grace wholly through the perfect righteousness of Jesus Christ, God Mediator for acceptance & eternal Life – my mortal Body I consign to the Dust from which it was taken, believing that it will be quickened raised & reunited to the immortal Soul, at the Judgment day & direct that it be decently interred –   with respect to the Disposition of my Estate, –

In the first place, I give & bequeath to my Sons Thomas, Lazarus & Gamaliel Sampson one Dollar each —

        In the second place, I give and bequeath to my Daughter Mercy Sampson one Dollar together with one half of all my personal Estate –

        In the third place I give and bequeath to my Grand daughters Hannah, Elizabeth, & Mary Sampson Daughters of my Son Lazarus Sampson all my Real Estate together with one half my personal Estate —

        In the fourth place. I constitute my Son Lazarus Sampson the Executor of this my last will and Testament.—

  In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my Name & Seal this day the twenty ninth of April in the Year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred & nine –

Signed Sealed and published and declared

by the above named Mercy Sampson to be

her last Will & Testament in the presence                                                                                her

of us who at her request & in her presence have

hereunto subscribed our Names as Witnesses to the same                                          Mercy  X  Sampson                            (seal)

                Thomas Crafts

                Joshua Haskins                                                                                                             Mark

                Levi Haskins

 

Presented for probate on 10 Nov. 1812 by Lazarus Sampson, the Executor therein named, and proved by the Revd. Thomas Crafts and Levi Haskins, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Lazarus Sampson, the before named Executor.

 

Joshua Haskins, Yeoman, Isaac Sampson, Yeoman, and Enoch Haskins, Housewright, all of Middleborough, were appointed to appraise the Estate of Mercy Sampson, late of Middleborough, on 10 Nov. 1812. The Inventory, dated 12 May 1813, consisted only of Real Estate, which was 16 acres of land together with one half a dwelling house and barn, valued at $332.00. Lazarus Sampson, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 2 Nov. 1813.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 44, p. 374-375, from FHL microfilm #0550903, and Vol. 45, p. 138-139.

 

 

Will of Nathaniel Sampson of Duxbury, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1813) *

In the name of God amen. I Nathaniel Sampson of Duxbury in the County of Plymouth being weak in Body but of sound & perfect mind & memory, blessed be almighty God for the same do make & publish this my last will & Testament in Manner & form following –

            First I give & bequeath unto my beloved Wife Hannah Sampson the Improvement of all my Estate both real & personal, so long as she remains my Widow & after that I give & bequeath the whole of my Estate to my Children equally to be divided between them: Wadsworth Chandler I hereby appoint sole Executor of this my last will & Testament, hereby revoking all former Wills by me made. — In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand & seal the twenty day of July in the year of our Lord one Thousand eight hundred & thirteen –

Sign sealed published & declared by the

above named Nathaniel Sampson to be his

last Will & Testament in the presence of us

who at his request & in his presence have

hereunto subscribed our Names as Witnesses                                                                Nathaniel Sampson                         (seal)

to the same  —

            Ichabod Delano

            Asa Joyce

            William Watson

 

Presented for probate on 30 Oct. 1813 by Wadsworth Chandler, the Executor therein named, and proved by Ichabod Delano and William Watson, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Wadsworth Chandler, the before named Executor.

 

Isaiah Alden, Jesse Simmons, and Ichabod Delano, all of Duxbury, were appointed to appraise the Estate of Nathaniel Sampson, late of Duxbury, yeoman, on 30 Oct. 1813. The Inventory of the Estate of Nathaniel Sampson, late of Duxbury, not dated, totaled $2476.57, including his real estate valued at $1924. Wadsworth Chandler, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 6 Oct. 1813.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 45, p. 130-131, from FHL microfilm #0550903.

 

 

Will of Paul Sampson of Marshfield, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1806) *

        In the Name of God amen I Paul Sampson of Marshfield in the County of Plymouth being weak in Body but of a sound Mind & Memory do this twenty fifth day of February one Thousand eight hundred & six make & publish this my last Will & Testament in the Manner following—

I give and bequeath unto my Wife after my Death & funeral charges are paid, one half of the use & Improvement of my Real & personal Estate during the time she shall remain my Widow.

I give unto my Six Sons Luther Sampson, Caleb Sampson, Chandler Sampson, Calvin Sampson & Procter Sampson & Martin Sampson the other half of my Real & personal Estate in equal Shares at my decease & at their Mother’s decease the whole both real and personal—

I give unto my four Daughters Silvia Turner, Olive Foord, Martha Bourn & Esther Magoon fifty Dollars apiece out of my Real or personal Estate within one Year after my decease besides what they received at their Marriage at my Wife’s decease, I give unto my sd. daughters twenty five Dollars apiece within Year after her decease, my two Pews in the Meeting burying Yard & right in a Stable I give unto my wife my Children & Grandchildren to own & improve.

Lastly I do constitute and ordain my Son Chandler Executor of this my last Will & Testament whereof I set my hand & Seal this day & Year as it is above written –

   Signed sealed & published by the said

Paul Sampson, at his desire we have set

our hands thereunto as Witnesses to sd Will                                                                    Paul Sampson                                   (seal)

        Luke Wadsworth

        Thomas Bourn

        Ichabod Wadsworth

 

Presented for probate on 3 June 1811 by Chandler Sampson, the Executor therein named, and proved by Luke Wadsworth and Ichabod Wadsworth, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Chandler Sampson, the before named Executor.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 43, p. 463-464, from FHL microfilm #0550902.

 

 

Will of Priscilla Sampson of Kingston, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1838) *

                I Priscilla Sampson of Kingston in the County of Plymouth & Commonwealth of Massachusetts, widow, do make and publish this my last Will and Testament in manner following Viz

                I give and bequeath to my Grand Children George Sampson and Elizabeth Sampson of Plymouth the children of my son Isaac Sampson deceased the sum of ten dollars each

                I also give divise and bequeath to my daughter Deborah Sampson the rest and residue of my estate both real and personal to her and her heirs forever. I appoint my said Daughter Deborah Sampson sole Executrix of this my will

                In Witness whereof I the said Priscilla Sampson have hereunto set my hand and seal this sixth day of March in the year of our Lord One thousand eight hundred and thirty eight.

                                                                                                                                                Priscilla Sampson                           (seal)

                Signed sealed published and declared by the above named Priscilla Sampson to be her last Will and Testament in presence of us who at her request in her presence and in presence of each other have hereunto subscribed our names as witnesses

                Constant Sampson Jr

                Joseph Stetson

                Thomas Russell

 

Presented for probate on the second Monday of August 1838 by Deborah Sampson, the Executor therein named, and proved by Joseph Stetson and Thomas Russell, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters Testamentary were granted to Deborah Sampson, the Executor therein named.

 

Deborah Sampson, of Kingston, was granted Administration of the Estate of Priscilla Sampson, late of Kingston, on 13 Aug. 1838, with Joseph Stetson and Thomas Russell as sureties.

No inventory of her estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 80, p. 260-261, from FHL microfilm #0555265, and Vol. 1G, p. 327.

 

 

Will of Rebecca Sampson of Kingston, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1834) *

I, Rebecca Sampson of Kingston in the County of Plymouth and Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Widow, do make and publish this my last Will and Testament, in the manner following, viz.

I give and bequeath to my daughter Harriet Fish, the use and improvement of the one half part of all my real estate, during the term of her natural life. I also give and bequeath to my said daughter Harriet, the Bed in the easterly chamber of the House where I live with the furniture belonging to the same.

I give and bequeath to my daughter Lucy Sampson, the use and improvement of the one half part of all my real estate during the term of her natural life. I also give and bequeath to my said daughter Lucy, the Bed in the Westerly Bedroom on the lower floor of the House where I live with the furniture belonging to the same.

I give and bequeath to my daughter Harriet Fish and Lucy Sampson the rest of my furniture (moveables and all my clothing to be equally divided between them.

I give and bequeath to my Grand daughter Elizabeth Hawley Fish, to her heirs and assigns forever, the remainder of all my real estate, to come into possession of the different moieties thereof, at the termination of the respective life estates given to my said Daughters Harriet Fish and Lucy Sampson.

I give and bequeath to my Daughter Rebecca the wife of Zenas Crocker of Barnstable, the sum of Five dollars.

I hereby constitute and appoint my daughter Harriet Fish Executrix of this my last Will and Testament.

In Testimony whereof I have hereunto set my Hand and Seal this twenty fourth day of September in the year of our Lord, one thousand eight hundred and thirty four.

                                                                                                                                                Rebecca Sampson                            (seal)

Signed, sealed, published and declared by the above named Rebecca Sampson, as her last Will and Testament, in the presence of us, who at her request, in her presence and in the presence of each other have hereunto subscribed our names as Witnesses

                                                                                                                                                Joseph Stetson

                                                                                                                                                Charles A. Foster

                                                                                                                                                Joseph Sampson

 

Presented for probate on the first Monday of Dec. 1844, and proved by Joseph Stetson and Charles A. Foster, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed, Joseph Sampson being now deceased.

 

James N. Sever, of Kingston, was granted Administration with the Will annexed of the Estate of Rebecca Sampson, late of Kingston, widow, on 2 Dec. 1844, with Joseph Stetson, of Kingston, and William R. Sever, of Plymouth, as sureties, Harriet Fish named as Executor therein having since intermarried.

No inventory of the estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 86, p. 601-603, from FHL microfilm #0555637, and Vol. 10A, p. 539.

 

 

Will of Rebekah Sampson of Plympton, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1797) *

   In the name of God amen, upon the twenty first day of December in the Year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred & Ninety seven I Rebekah Sampson of Plympton in the County of Plymouth in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts widow upon good & serious consideration & being under some decays of nature, but of perfect Mind & memory thanks be given unto God for the same, Thefore calling to mind the mortality of my Body, and knowing that it is appointed unto all men once to die, do make & ordain this to be my last Will & Testament that is to say, principally and first of all, I do give and recommend my Soul into the hand of God that gave it, and my body I recommend to the Earth, to be buried in a decent and christian manner at the discretion of my Executor hereinafter named nothing doubting but at the great and General Resurrection I shall receive the same by the Almighty Power of God. And as touching such worldly Goods and temporal Estate, that God hath been pleased to bless me with in this Life, I do give, demise & dispose of the same in the following Manner and form. –

   Imprimis I do give and bequeath unto my Kinsman Nephew Joseph Cushman two Acres of salt Meadow lying on the northerly side of Great Wood Island, said two acres of Meadow are to be taken both together, and where the said Joseph pleases to take them in said Meadow; And also five Acres of the forty ninth lot in number of the second Division of the commons of upland adjoining to said Joseph’s ten acres in said Lot, All which I do give and bequeath unto the said Joseph Cushman, his Heirs and assigns forever —

  Item I do give and bequeath unto my Kinsman or Nephew Joshua Cushman, the one half part of Woodneck Salt meadow, to him his Heirs & assigns forever —

  Item I do give and bequeath unto my Kinsman or Nephew Soule Cushman’s Children begotten of his Body, four hundred & eighty Dollars to be paid out of my Estate in the following Manner (viz my Will & meaning is, and I do hereby order & appoint my Executor hereafter to be named, to sell unto my Kinsman or Nephew Joseph Cushman for five hundred thirty Dollars Dollars to be paid in two years after my decease the one half of my homestead farm with all the Housing Buildings, Fencing & Orchards thereon (only excepting the small Building thereon that the abovesaid Joseph Cushman has built upon the said farm, which the said Joseph has a right & Liberty to carry off or otherwise to dispose of, when he shall see cause so to do) & also one acre of Great Wood Island Salt Meadow, my Will & meaning it that my Executor pay out of the five hundred Dollars above mentioned to the above mentioned Heirs of said Soule Cushman four hundred & eighty Dollars & to my Kinsman Alerton Cushman fifty Dollars —

   Item I do give and bequeath unto my Kinsman George Cushman, the Son of the said Joseph Cushman the the other other half part of my Homestead farm with all the buildings Fencing and Orchard thereon (only excepting the small building that the abovesaid Joseph Cushman has built thereon, which the said Joseph has Liberty to carry off, or otherwise to dispose of, as shall think fit so to do) also one acre of my Great Wood Island Salt Meadow, all which I do give and bequeath unto my said Kinsman George Cushman his Heirs & assigns forever, But my Will and meaning is that the said George Cushman is to pay a Legacy out of his part to my Kinsman Ephraim Cushman the said Alerton Cushman’s brother fifty Dollars to be paid in two years from my decease. ~

   Item I do give & bequeath unto my Kinsman or Nephew Cephas Cushman my six Acres of Woodland lying at a place commonly called Westsridge together with all my Salt Meadow not before disposed of to him his Heirs & Assigns forever but my will is that the said Cephas Cushman is to pay out of what I have given him as above all my just debts and funeral Charges and my Will is that all the residue & remainder of my Woodland that is not before given away or disposed of my Will is, that the said Cephas Cushman shall sell to the best Advantage & pay out of the produce of it to my Kinsman & Nephew Paul Cushman twenty five Dollars & to my Kinsman and Nephew Apollos Cushman Ten Dollars, and my Will is that all the residue and remainder of the produce of my Woodland, that I have ordered to be sold after the said Legacies as above are paid out, I do give and bequeath unto my Neice or Kinswoman Mary Chandler the Wife of Ezekiel Chandler & the three daughters of my Sister Alethea Cushman decd. (viz) Asenath Downer, Lydia Foots & Mary Soule, together with all the residue of my moveable or personal Estate Whatsoever it is or wheresoever it may be found, I do give and bequeath unto the said Mary Chandler, Asenath Downer, Lydia Foots & Mary Soule to be equally alike divided among them all their Heirs & Assigns forever. —

   Item I do hereby constitute & appoint my trusty Kinsman & Nephew Cephas Cushman to be the sole Executor of this my last Will & Testament & do hereby utterly disallow revoke & disannul all & every other former Wills Testament & and bequests & Executor by me in any other Wills be named willed or bequested ratifying & confirming this & no other to be my last Will & Testament, In Witness whereof I the said Rebekah Sampson have hereunto set my hand & Seal the day & year above written –

Signed, sealed, published, pronounced & declared by the said

Rebekah Sampson to be her last Will & Testament in the presence

of us the Subscribers —

attest                      Joshua Loring

                                Arthur Chandler                                                                                  Rebekah Sampson                           (seal)

                                Mercy Chandler

 

 

Presented for probate on 1 Jan. 1805 by Cephas Cushman, the Executor therein named, and proved by Arthur Chandler and Mercy Chandler, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Cephas Cushman, the before named Executor.

 

Judah Alden Esqr., Reuben Peterson and Malachi Delano, yeoman, all of Duxbury, were appointed to appraise the Estate of Rebekah Sampson, late of Duxbury, Widow, on 1 Jan. 1805. The Inventory of the late Widow Rebekah Sampson totaled $2061.62, including her home farm with the buildings valued at $1500, a wood lot lying above and adjoining Levi Weston valued at $460, Great Wood Island Salt Marsh valued at $536, Little wood neck valued at $300, and 6 acres lying below sd Westons valued at $30. The appraisers gave their oath to the inventory on 3 Jan. 1805, and Cephas Cushman, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 5 Jan. 1805.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 40, p. 147-150, from FHL microfilm #0550901.

 

 

Will of Ruth Sampson of Duxbury, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1844) *

                In the name of God Amen. I Ruth Sampson of Duxbury in the County of Plymouth do hereby make this my last Will and testament, being of sound and disposing mind and memory, I Commit my soul to God the author and my body to the earth decently buried by my Executor hereafter mentioned.

        And as to my worldly estate I hereby dispose of the same as follows Viz. My money the most of which is in the Savings Bank, Plymouth I will to be divided, after my debts, funeral charges and cost of executing my Will are paid, into four equal shares, one share I bequeath to my two brothers John Burgess and Nathan Burgess in equal halves.

        The three remaining shares I bequeath in equal portions to my three Sisters Lucy Glass, Mercy Taylor, and Saviah Sampson.

          My household furniture I give in equal shares to my brothers and sisters who may be living at my death.

                And I hereby appoint Ralph Partridge sole Executor of this my last will and Testament, hereby revoking all former wills by me made.

                In witness whereof I the said Ruth Sampson have hereunto set my hand and seal this twenty eighth day of June, Eighteen hundred and forty four.

                                Signed published, and declared by the said Ruth Sampson to be her last Will and Testament in presence of us, the subscribers who in her presence and at her request and in the presence of each other have hereunto set our names as Witnesses.

                                                                                                                                                Ruth Sampson                                   (seal)

                Ralph Partridge

                Ziba Hunt

                Diana Hunt

 

Presented for probate on the third Monday of Feb. 1847 by Ralph Partridge, the Executor therein named, and proved by Ziba Hunt and Diana Hunt, two of the witnesses therein subscribed. Letters Testamentary were granted to Ralph Partridge, the executor therein named.

 

Ralph Partridge, of Duxbury, was granted Letters Testamentary on the Estate of Ruth Sampson, late of Duxbury, on 15 Feb. 1847, with William Ellison and George Faunce, of Duxbury, as sureties.

George P. Richardson, Martin Sampson and Ziba Hunt, all of Duxbury, were appointed to appraise the estate of Ruth Sampson, late of Duxbury, on 18 Jan. 1847.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Ruth Sampson, late of Duxbury, was not dated, but totaled $728.09, including $500 deposited in the Savings Bank in Plymouth, but no real estate. Ralph Partridge, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on the third Monday of Feb. 1847.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 89, p. 63-65, from FHL microfilm #0555639, and Vol. 2H, p. 103.

 

 

Will of Samuel Sampson of Middleborough, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1840) *

Be it remembered that I Samuel Sampson of Middleborough in the County of Plymouth Yeoman — Considering the uncertainty of this mortal life and being of sound mind and memory do make and publish this last Will and Testament in manner following that is to say

1st I give to my son Richard Sampson his heirs and assigns forever all my Real Estate wherever it may be found, he the said Richard paying out to my son Ira Sampson One hundred Dollars in one year after my decease, and as my son Richard has heretofore received considerable of my personal Estate in stock that was on the farm, he the said Richard is in consideration thereof to pay out one hundred and thirty Dollars which sum is to be added to what Personal Estate I may leave at my decease, all which is equally to be divided among my several heirs hereinafter named

I firstly give to my son Richard one Bed and bedding out of the above named personal estate, my daughter Lydia Staples and my son John Sampson, and my daughter Betsey Leach & Jane King, and the children of my son Samuel Sampson calling them one heir & to the children of my son Holmes Sampson calling them one heir, I give the remaining part to be equally divided among them, — I hereby appoint my above named son Richard Sampson sole Executor of this my last Will and Testament and hereby revoking all former Wills made by me. ~

   In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this twenty fifth day of May in the year of our Lord eighteen hundred & forty

                                                                                                                                                Samuel Sampson                              (seal)

Signed sealed published and declared by the above

named Samuel Sampson to be his last Will and testament

in the presence of us who have hereunto subscribed our names

as witnesses in the presence of the testator

                                                                                Seth Eaton

                                                                                Charles White

                                                                                Reuel W. Eaton

 

Presented for probate on the first Tuesday of Nov. 1850 by Richard Sampson, the Executor therein named, and proved by Charles White and Reuel W. Eaton, the witnesses whose names are subscribed, Seth Eaton being now deceased. Letters Testamentary were granted to Richard Sampson, the Executor therein named.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Samuel Sampson, late of Middleborough, was appraised on 1 Nov. 1850 by Charles White, Reuel W Eaton and James J. Cushman, and totaled $2045.64, including his real estate valued at $1875. Richard Sampson, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on the first Tuesday of Nov. 1850.

 

Richard Sampson, of Middleborough, was granted Administration of the estate with Will annexed of Samuel Sampson, late of Middleborough, Yeoman, on 5 Nov. 1850, with Charles White and Ruel W. Eaton, of Middleborough, as sureties.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 92, p. 432-434, from FHL microfilm #0555640, and Vol. 2H, p. 247.

 

 

Will and Codicil of Sylvanus Sampson of Duxbury, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1838) *

                In the name of God Amen. I Sylvanus Sampson of Duxbury in the County of Plymouth do make this my last Will and Testament.

First  I give and bequeath to my son Ezra W. Sampson the farm I had of Capt. Richard Soule and the Lewis Sampson place so called, and my shares estate and interest I have in the Kingston Factory – to have and to hold the same to him his heirs and assigns– I also give up and release all claims and charges I have against him, he releasing all claims against my Estate except such as be my devise under this my will.

        Second. I give and bequeath to my son Sylvanus Sampson Junr. my Homestead farm on the East side of the wall including buildings, salt works &c. also land in the Nook so called near by lying togather and consisting of about twenty five acres, also a piece of wood land I had of Joseph Wadsworth, also a piece of Cedar swamp I own in my own right, also my Pew in the Revd Mr Moores Meeting House and horse shed also all my stock except my best horse, Viz. cows oxen sheep, swine, poultry, hay and grain and all my farming utensils including my boat, provided however, in making this bequest and that which is hereinafter named and in the acceptance thereof, my estate is to be free and quit of all claims for services, and all other claims in favour of my said son, and claims against him are hereby discharged, to have and to hold said bequeathed premises, in case of acceptance, to him the said Sylvanus Sampson Junr. his heirs and assigns.

  Third, I give and bequeath to my daughter Salumett W. Soule the House and land on the west side of the way from my Homestead, the House being now occupied by my son Sylvanus. Also a wood lot I had of Lewis Sampson lying near the Revd Mr Moore’s Meeting House Also fifty eight shares in the Roger William’s Bank, also five shares in the Plymouth Bank. Also fourteen shares in the Merchant Insurance Company, also thirty six shares in the United States Insurance Company, also five shares in the Franklin Insurance Company, my best horse, chaise and harness, and one half of all my furniture, plate, books, clothing, and provision of every kind, the same being to be equally divided between my daughters Salumiett and Elizabeth, To have and to hold all and singular, said bequeathed premises to her the said Salumiett W. Soule her heirs and assigns – and I release my said daughter from all claims – in favour of my estate, she having none against me except such as she shall derive under this will.

  Fourth. I give and bequeath to my daughter Elizabeth Sampson the Shares, property and interest I have in the Factories in Duxbury and Marshfield also fifty seven shares in the Roger Williams Bank, also forty shares in the United States Insurance Company, also five shares in the Franklin Insurance Company, also one half of all my furniture, plate, books, clothing and provisions of every kind, the same being to be equally divided between her and my daughter Salumitt, also the sum of twenty four hundred dollars to be paid to her by my son-in-law John Owen, or otherwise collected of him or from his Estate for her, by my Executor herein after named, to have and to hold the same to her and her heirs and assigns, and I release my said daughter from Claims in favour of my estate she having none except such as she shall derive under this my will.

Fifth  I release to my daughter Sylvia C. Owen all claims in my favor against her. I also direct that my Executor deliver over to her the notes I now hold for money I have paid to said John Owen or to him and his late partners (he being the husband of my daughter Sylvia) prior to the day of the date of this my will on his paying to my daughter Elizabeth within two months from my decease the twenty four hundred dollars herein ordered to be paid by him to her, and should the said John Owen neglect to pay said twenty four hundred dollars to the said Elizabeth, I then order my said Executor to collect of the said John Owen or from his Estate such a sum as shall enable him to pay the Expence of collecting and paying over to the said Elizabeth the said sum of twenty four hundred dollars togather with interest from the day of my decease that the said Elizabeth may receive the said sum from the said Owen with interest free from deduction from charges or expences

Sixth  I direct that my Executor or whoever shall administer on my Estate do sell my vessels and all other property I may own at the time of my decease, not herein bequeathed and collect all sums of money which may be due to my estate, and pay my just debts and funeral Expences and Expences of administration, and that the residue be divided equally to my son Sylvanus Sampson Jr and to my daughters Salumitt W. Soule and Elizabeth Sampson equal sums to Each – not meaning hereby to revoke the order as to the claims and demands to be given up as is herein before directed.

Seventh, Having executed a power of attorney to transfer my stock in the Roger Williams Bank to my daughters Salumitt W. and Elizabeth as herein bequeathed to them, and now intending to Effect a conveyance of that stock to them as soon as the same can be conveniently done, I will and order that if this is done in my life time that this my will remain in all other respects and that the bequests only in this particular be no longer under the charge of my Executor – My will is in this respect having been Executed by me  If so be that the stock shall have been transferred by me.

Eighth, I have assumed that the real Estate which I have in right of my wife now deceased, belongs to my children after use as heirs to their mother in equal portions – the Estate which so came to me as are follows viz   About 35 acres of mixed wood-oak and pine back of Levi Weston’s, about 100 acres of wood land Swamp &c fenced in known as the Ruth Simmons Place and 2 or 3 acres without the fence, 5 acres more of swamp white oak timber &c lying West of the Ruth Simmons place 40 acres of wood land in Marshfield known as the Ray Thomas lot 4½ acres of salt meadow known as the Gotham meadow joining the Marshfield line about 17 or 18 acres of salt marsh at the place called the Skirt in Duxbury Marsh described as follows viz 4 acres at a place called the Hummock adjoining Major Judah Aldens 7½ acres in the center of the Skirt adjoining Ezra Weston called the Manler Meadows 4½ acres on do down at the bow of the beach so called and lands in South Boston.

  Ninth, I appoint Samuel K. Williams of Boston Executor of this my last Will and Testament hereby revoking all former Wills, some of my stocks stand in the name of Sylvia C. Sampson late my wife now deceased, and should it become necessary to take letter of administration on her estate in order to transfer said stocks as herein bequeathed then I direct that my Executor take such letter of Administration and do as shall be required, and should I require any sum of money from my son in-law Mr John Owen in my life time, it will be only such a sum or sums from time to time as will still leave the payment to be made by him to my daughter Elizabeth the sum as herein ordered, the amount I have advanced to him and my daughter Sylvia C. Owen being as is now on interest, and my intention being to do justly by all my children. and should I hereafter by reason of any endorsement by me made for Mr Owens or which I may hereafter make for him, pay any further sum for him – or should I hereafter lend him any sum of money my will and intention is that all such sum or sums be collected and constitute no part of the provision and portion intended for my daughter his wife, and should any of my stocks or other property herein devised be transfered in my life time, or should I acquire any other property real or personal not now owned by me, I will and order that this my will be and remain as to all such I may acquire, and that the same be not revoked except so far as regards such stocks and property as shall be actually transfered and conveyed.

                In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this twenty fifth day of July in the year of our Lord Eighteen hundred and thirty Eight.

        Executing, publishing and declaring this instrument to be my last Will and Testament in presence of the witnesses hereto who have signed the same in my presence and the presence of each other.

        Witnesses                                                                                                                      Sylvanus Sampson                           (seal)

        Andrew Sampson

        Paraclete Alden

        Mary T. Soule

 

        I Sylvanus Sampson of Duxbury do make this Codicil to my last Will and Testament viz,

        The legacy and provision made by me in my will for my daughter Sylvia C. Owen and her husband John Owen I hereby wholly revoke, and in lieu thereof I provide and devise as follows viz,

                The furniture &c which I leased to Mr John Owen about the time or soon after his marriage amounting to about twenty eight hundred and thirty four dollars, as by the schedule annexed to the lease will appear, I devise and bequeath to my daughters Salumitt W. Soule and Elisabeth Sampson and to the survivor of them and to the executor of the survivor of them in trust for the use of my daughter Sylvia C. Owen for and during her continuance in life, in the bonds of wedlock with her present husband; and in case of her surviving him then the same to be at her sole disposal without restriction or control. The same also to be subject to her disposition by appointment in the nature of a last Will, in writing or otherwise, Should she decease before her husband, and in case of her decease leaving her husband, without having made such appointment then the same or so much thereof as shall remain to go to such of her children as shall then be living

        And I direct that at or soon after my decease an account be raised between my estate and my daughter Sylva C. Owen in which she shall be charged “pro forma,” with all sums paid for said furniture &c together with all sums by me in any way leased to her husband or to him and his late partner James Munroe & Company or otherwise furnished to his or their use, up to the day of my will, viz, July 25th A D 1838, together with interest cast annually on all such sums, including also the cost of said furniture viz compound interest on the whole use to the time of raising said account viz soon after my decease; and after such account is thus stated, I direct that my executor, or such person as shall administer on my estate, require and take of the said John Owen, if he shall then be in life his promisory note for the sum of twelve thousand and two hundred dollars, payable to my daughters Salumitt W. Soule and Elisabeth Sampson, trustees or Order, on demand with interest and deliver the same note to the said trustees, to be by them and the survivor of them held as trustees of Sylvia C. Owen, to be collected and otherwise invested or the proceeds applied as the trustees shall think proper, but always as well principal as interest for the sole use and benefit of the said Sylvia C. Owen during her natural life, and for the benefit of her children, should she decease without any appointment, or disposition thereof, and from the residue or balance of the account, so to be raised, and stated, after deducting the sum of twelve thousand and two hundred dollars, and the further sum of twenty eight hundred and thirty four dollars the amount of the cost of the furniture, I direct my executor or the administrator on my estate, to collect of the said John Owen the further sum of twenty four hundred dollars, and to pay the same to my daughter Elisabeth Sampson, and the further sum of one hundred dollars, and pay the same to my daughter Salumitt W. Soule to the entire satisfaction of each of them, and the residue and balance after all these sums are deducted to collect and recover of the said John Own, or from his Estate and the sum to be divided, after paying debts funeral charges and Expences of administration to my son Sylvanus and daughters Salumett and Elizabeth, equal sums to each, and I direct that all sums for which I have or shall hereafter become liable for, or for the account of the said John Owen, by endorsement, or as surety, or otherwise, and all sums which I have or shall loan or furnish to him, or pay for his account, after the twenty fifth day of July AD 1838 the day of the date of my Will, be paid by the said John Owen with interest.

  And in case the said John Owen shall refuse to comply with the requisitions of this my will, I then direct my Executor, or the administrator of my estate, to collect all sums which I have loaned to him, or to his late copartners, and all sums due from him or them, by note, account, or otherwise, and make such disposition of the sums collected, or which shall be collected, as shall most nearly accomplish the object of this my Codicil to my last Will.

It being my intention that any loss which shall arise in collecting the sums which I have loned and furnished to the said John Owen and Sylvia his wife, and the sums due as aforesaid, from any cause whatsoever, lapse of time or otherwise, all and Every such loss, shall fall on the share of my estate I have intended for my daughter Sylvia C. Owen, having estimated her shares at about fifteen thousand dollars viz. twelve thousand and two hundred dollars for which her husbands note is to be taken payable as aforesaid, and the furniture &c about twenty eight hundred and thirty four dollars.

        And whereas in my will I amongst other things, gave to my daughter Salumitt W. Soule fourteen shares in the Merchants Insurance Company, and it now turns out that I had only thirteen shares in said Company, I hereby revoke that legacy so far as regards the one share in the Company, which I had not, confirming to her the thirteen shares which I have, and in lieu of the one share giving to her the one hundred dollars to be collected from Mr Owen as is herein provided

        And in all other things I confirm my last will heretofore made as aforesaid.

                In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this      day of November in the year of our Lord eighteen hundred and forty three

                                                                                                                                                Sylvanus Sampson                           (seal)

        Signed, sealed published and declared to be the Codicil of the Testator to his last will, in our presence and we in his presence and in presence of each, have hereunto at his request subscribed our names as witnesses

                                                                                                                                                Andrew Sampson

                                                                                                                                                Mason Maglathlin

                                                                                                                                                Mary T. Soule

 

Presented for probate on the second Monday of Apr. 1848 by Samuel K. Williams, the Executor therein named, no person appearing to show cause against the same, and proved by Mary T. Soule, one of the witnesses to the Will and the Codicil. Letters Testamentary were granted to Samuel K. Williams, the Executor therein named.

 

Samuel K. Williams, of Boston, in the County of Suffolk, Counsellor at Law, was appointed as Executor of the last Will and Testament of Sylvanus Sampson, late of Duxbury, on 10 Apr. 1848, with Ezra W. Sampson, of Dedham, in the County of Norfolk, as surety.

Seth Sprague, George P. Richardson and Benjamin Alden, all of Duxbury, were appointed to appraise the estate of Sylvanus Sampson, late of Duxbury, on 18 Apr. 1848.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Sylvanus Sampson, late of Duxbury, was appraised on 25 Apr. 1848, his real estate totaled $6584, including his homestead farm, salt works, wharf and store valued at $3300, and his personal estate totaled $7202.45. Samuel K. Williams, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 2 June 1848.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 90, pp. 101-108, 240-241, from FHL microfilm #0555639, and Vol. 2H, p. 150.

 

 

Will of Thomas Sampson of Plympton, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1822) *

In the name of God Amen. I Thomas Sampson of Plympton in the County of Plymouth and Commonwealth of Massachusetts Gentleman being weak in body, but of perfect mind and memory, thanks be given to God therefor calling to mind the mortality of my body & knowing that it is appointed for all men once to die, do make and ordain this my last will and testament and desire it may be received by all as such, And principally and first of all, I give and bequeath my soul into the hands of God who gave it and my body I recommend to the earth to be buried in decent christian burial at the discretion of my Executor hereafter named nothing doubting that at the general resurrection I shall receive the same again by the mighty power of God—And as touching such worldly estate wherewith it hath pleased god to bless me in this life I give, demise and dispose of the same in the following manner and form —

Imprimis. I give and bequeath to my well beloved wife Ruth Sampson the use and improvement of all my household furniture together with the use & benefit of one cow and three sheep for and during her natural life.

Item. I give and bequeath to my two daughters (viz) Olive Randall widow and Ruth Soule the wife of Aaron Soule and to their heirs and assigns forever, all my household furniture to be equally divided between them after the decease of my wife —

Item. I give and bequeath to my grand-son Thomas Randall & to his heirs and assigns forever, one half of my pew on the lower floor in the meeting house in said Plympton, together with all my wearing apparel, and my carpenters tools.

Item. I give and bequeath to my grandson Charles Soule a certain piece of land lying and being in Plympton aforesaid adjoining Joseph Sherman’s land, containing by estimation about five acres, Also one half of my pew on the lower floor in the meeting house in Plympton also all my stock of cattle and sheep, except the cow & sheep above disposed of, Also all my farming tools &c. utensils to him the sd Charles Soule and to his heirs & assigns forever, together with the above mentioned one cow & three sheep after the decease of my wife.

And I do positively order my grandson Charles Soule to pay all my just debts and funeral expenses and to receive all debts due to my estate of every name and nature for his own use and benefit —

Lastly, I do constitute make and ordain my Grandson Charles Soule my sole Executor of this my last Will and Testament, and I do hereby utterly disallow, revoke & disannul all and every other former will, testament, legacies, bequeaths, and Executors by me, in any wise willed, named and bequeathed, ratifying & confirming this & no other to be my last Will and Testament.
In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand & seal this seventh day of May, the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and twenty two—1822

Signed sealed pronounced & declared

by the said Thomas Sampson as his                                                                                 Thomas Sampson             (seal)

last Will and Testament in presence

of us the subscribers

                Elijah Bisbee

                Ebenezer Standish

                Peleg Sampson

 

Plymouth Ss. Court of Probate March 15th 1824 The foregoing Instrument purporting to be the last Will and Testament of Thomas Sampson late of Plympton Gentleman deceased being presented to me for Probate and having examined the subscribing witnesses thereto and no objection being offered to the probate thereof I decree that said Instrument be allowed as the last Will and Testament of said deceased and the same is approved as such accordingly

                                                                                                                                                Wilkes Wood  J. Prob.

 

Elijah Bisbee, Esquire, Jonathan Parker & Joseph Sherman, Gentlemen, all of Plympton, were appointed to appraise the estate of Thomas Sampson, late of Plympton, Gentleman, deceased, on 15 Mar. 1824.

The Inventory of the estate of Thomas Sampson, late of Plympton, totaled $386.65, including 5 acres of wood land & meadow valued at $95, a pew on the lower floor in the meeting house valued at $33, and various livestock, including oxen. Charles Soule, the executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 21 June 1824.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 58, pp. 33-35, 198-199, from FHL microfilm #0550910.

 

 

Will of Abner Samson of Duxbury, Plymouth County, Massachusetts Bay (1780) *

In the Name of God Amen. The Eleventh day of February in the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and Eighty I Abner Samson of Duxbury in the county of Plymouth in the State of Massachusetts Bay, yeoman upon serious consideration and being of perfect mind and memory thanks be to God and calling to mind the mortality of my body, and knowing that it is appointed for all men to die do make and ordain this to be my Last will and testament that is to say principally and first of all I do Give and Recommend my soul into the hand of God that Gave it, and my body I Recommend to the Earth to be decently buried at the discretion of my Executors hereafter named nothing doubting but at the Resurrection I shall Recieve the same again by the almighty power of God, and as touching such worldly Goods and temporal Estate as God hath blessed me in this Life with I Give, demise and dispose of the same in the manner and form following

Imprimis—my will is that all my Just debts and Funeral charges be defrayed and paid out of my personal Estate

Item—I do Give and bequeath to my dear and beloved wife Deborah Samson the improvement of all my Real and Personal Estate so Long as she shall remain my widow and no Longer

Item—I Give and bequeath to my Eldest son Abner Samson Twenty pounds the money to be as money passed in the year one thousand seven hundred and Seventy Eight Ten pounds to be paid by son Isaac Samson Five pounds by my Son Nathl. Samson and five pounds by my Son Aaron Samson to be paid at their mothers decease or marriage

Item—I Do Give and bequeath unto my three youngest son’s Isaac Samson Nathl. Samson and Aaron Samson the whole of my Real Estate that is to say the one half of it unto my son Isaac Samson and the Other half equally between my two youngest sons Nathl. Samson and Aaron Samson at their mothers decease or marriage

Item—I do Give and bequeath unto my daughters Mary Hunt, Sarah Samson Deborah Sprague, Lucy Samson, Luna Samson and Wealthy Samson all my personal Estate equally between them Excepting one Case of Drawers my daughter Sarah Samson hath Recieved and one Bed with the furniture my daughter Deborah Sprague hath Recieved to be deducted out of their parts or shares after their mothers decease or marriage

Item—my will is that all the premises and bequests as abovesaid are Given to Each of my Children as above and to their heirs and assigns forever—and I do hereby constitute my dearly beloved wife Deborah Samson with Capt. Calvin Partridge to be the Sole Executors of this my Last will and testament, and I do hereby Revoke and utterly disallow and disannull all and every other former will and testament and bequests by me made, willed or bequeathed, Ratifying and confirming this and no other to be my Last will and testament—In witness whereof I the said Abner Samson have hereunto Set my hand and Seal this Eleventh day of February one thousand seven hundred and Eighty

Signed, Sealed and Published, pronounced                                                                            his

and declared by me the said Abner Sam-                                                                       Abner  X  Samson               (seal)

son in presence of us the Subscribers                                                                                         mark

                C. Partridge

                Thomas Chandler

                Oliver Samson

 

Presented for probate on 3 Apr. 1780 by Deborah Samson and Calvin Partridge, the Executors therein named, and proved by Thomas Chandler and Oliver Samson, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Deborah Samson and Calvin Partridge, the before named Executors.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Mr. Abner Samson, late of Duxbury, was appraised by Perez Howland, Thomas Chandler, and John Hanks, and totaled £10,607.15.7, including his homestead farm with the buildings &c valued at £6864. The appraisers gave their oath to the inventory on 5 June 1780.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 25, p. 483-485, from FHL microfilm #0550713.

 

 

Will of Abraham Samson of Duxbury, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1725) *

In the Name of God Amen on the 2d day of August  in the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred twenty five I Abraham Samson of Duxborough in the County of Plimouth in his Majesties Province of the Massachusetts Bay in New England husbandman being of a disposing mind & memory Thanks be given to God therefor & calling into mind the mortality of my body & Knowing that it is appointed for all men once to dye do make & ordain this my last will & testament that is to say principally & first of all I give & Recomend my soul into the hands of God that gave it & my body to the earth to be buried in decent hoping I Shall receive the same again by the allmighty power of God and as touching Such worldly Estate as it hath pleased God to bless me with in this life I Give & Dispose of the same in the following manner & form

Imprimis I Give & Bequeath to my Loving wife Lorah Samson my Dwelling house my land & meadow during her naturall life & all my movable Estate during her naturall life Excepting what I Shall here after name

Item I give & bequeath unto my Son Nathaniel Samson the Lot of land he now Dwelleth on in Duxborough to him & his heirs & assignes forever

Item I give unto my three Sons Abraham Miles & Ebenezer Samson all my upland & meadows after my wives decease to them & their heirs & assignes forever provided my son Abraham Samson through up & divide that one half of my upland given him by deed already with his Brothers Miles Samson & Ebenezer Samson which if he refuses[?] to do then my will is that my two Sons Miles & Ebenezer Samson shall have the other half of my upland & all my meadows & housing upon sd land to them & their heirs & assignes forever.

Item I give to my Son Abraham Samson my small bored gun.

Item I give to my Son Miles Samson my long gun

Item I give to my Son Ebenezer Samson my _____ & cutlass

Item I give unto Rebeckah Samson one feather bed

Item I give to my daughter Gracye Samson a feather bed & one Cow

Item I give unto my three Daughters Rebeckah Sarah & Grace Samson all my moveable Estate that is not disposed off after my wives Decease.

Lastly I make & ordain my Son Ebenezer Samson my sole Executor & I Do hereby utterly Revoak Disannull all other & former wills by me heretofore made Ratifing & confirming this & no other to be my last will & Testament In Witness whereof I have hereunto Set my hand & seal the day & year above written

Signed Sealed & Declared to be his                                                                 Abraham Samson            (seal)

last Will & Testament in the

presence of us the Subscribers

Saml Sprauge

Samuel Sprague Jur.

Sarah Sprague

 

September the 4 1727 Samuel Sprague Jur. & Sarah Sprague made oath that they saw the within named Abraham Samson late of Duxborough in the County of Plimouth deceased Sign Seal & heard him Declare the within written Instrument to be his last will & testament & that at the same time they together with their father Samuel Sprague set to their hands as Witnesses & that according to the best of their observation he then was of a disposing mind & memory

                                                                                                                Before me Isaac Winslow Judge of Probate

November the 6 1727 Samuel Sprague made oath that he saw the above named Abraham Samson Sign seal & heard him Declare the within written Instrument to be his last will & testament…

 

The inventory of the estate of Mr. Abraham Samson, late of Duxborough, taken by John Alden, Samuel Nelson, & Joshua Soul, not totaled, was presented on 12 Sept. 1727.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth Co. Probate Vol. 5, p. 477-478, 480, from FHL microfilm #0550511.

 

 

Will of Abraham Samson of Duxbury, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1764) *

                                The Last Will & Testament of Abraham Samson of Duxborough in the County of Plymouth in the Province of the Massachusetts bay in Newengland yeoman: I the Said Abraham Samson being under Many Bodily Infirmityes yet of perfect Mind & Memory Thanks be Given To Almighty God therefor & Calling to mind the Mortallity of my body & Knowing that It Is Appointed for all men once to Die Do uppon Serious Consideration Make & ordain these presents to be my Last Will and Testament to Remain firm & Inviolable forever that Is to say first of all I Give & Recomend my Soul into the hands of God that Gave It & my body I Recomend to the Earth to be buried in Decent Christian Manor at the Decretion of my Executor herein After Named Nothing Doubting but at the General Resurection I Shall Receve the same again by the Almighty power of God & as touching Such Worldly Estate Wherewith It hath pleased God to bless me in this Life I Give Divise & Dispose of the same in the following manor & forme viz—

Imprs I Give & bequeath unto my Dear & Loving Wife Mary Samson one third part of my Movable Estate after my Debts & funeral Charges are paid out of the Same & the Improvement of one third part of Real Estate to Improve So Long as She Shall Remain my Wido—

Item– I Give & bequeath unto my Son Abraham Samson a Gun—

Item– I Give & bequeath unto my Son Stephen Samson five pounds Lawful money provided he shall bring in no bill or Demand on my Estate for Service Done for me in my Life time—

Item– I Give & bequeath unto my Son Henry Samson four acres of Land Including the Land I Gave him to Set his house on on the Northeasterly Side of my farme Ajoying to the Land of Aaron bisby from Side to Side on bisby Range of an equal Wedth providing he Bring in no bill or Demand for Service Don for me in my Life time

Item– I Give & bequeath unto my Daughter Hannah Holmes wife to        Holmes one fifth part of my moveable Estate after my Debts & funeral Charge & the Legueses herein Named are paid—

Item– I Give & bequeath unto my Grandaughter Rhoda Chandlor wife to Thomas Chandlor one fifth part of my Movable Estate after my debts & funeral Charges & the Legueses here in Named are paid

Item– I Give & bequeath unto my Daughter Penelepy Samson one fifth part of my movable Estate after my Debts & funeral Charges & the Leguses herein Named are paid & a priveledge of Living in my Dwelling house & a Cow Keept Winter & Sumer provided my Son Abraham Samson Above-Named Doth not Sell the farme that I Shall herein Give to him but If he Doth then I ordor him to pay in the Lew of Keeping ye Cow & Improvement of the house thirteen pounds & Six Shilings & Eight pence Lawfull money to my said Daughter Penelopy Samson—

Item– I Give & bequeath unto my Grand Children the Children of my Daughter Ruth Delano Deseased Late Wife to Amaziah Delano ten Shilings to be Divided amongs them all—

Item– I Give & bequeath unto my Son Abraham Samson before Named all the Remainder of my Estate both Real & personal that Is not before here in Given away after Debts Legueses Dowery & Gifts are paid provided he Doth not bring in any Demand on my Estate for Service Don in my Life time & Also pay to his Sister penelepy the thirteen pounds Six Shilings & Eight pence If he Sels the Said Real Estate

Lastly my Will is that Jonathan Peterson of said Duxborough be the Sole Executor of this my Last will & testament thus Hoping that this my Last will be Keept & Performed According to the trew Intent & meaning there of—

In Witness Whereof I the Said Abraham Samson have hereunto Sett my hand & Seal this twenty second Day of may Anno Domini one thousand Seven hundred Sixty & four – 1764

Signed Sealed & Declaired by the

Afore Named Abraham Samson to be                                                                                               his

his Last Will & Testament                                                                                                Abraham  +  Samson

In presents of—                                                                                                                                   mark

Caleb Oldham

Silvanus Drew

Jona Peterson

 

Where as the above named mr peterson being Decst and i being in perfect mind and memory; do thear fore Constute and apoint joseph Soul of sd Duxborough to be the Sole executor of this my Last will and testament whare unto i do set my hand this 30 th Day of may iny iin the year 1765

Sind in presants of                                                                                                                                his

Jonathan Peterson                                                                                                               Abraham  X  Samson

joseph Soul                                                                                                                                           mark

 

Messrs. Ebenezer Delano, Eliphaz Prior and John Samson, all of Duxborough, yeomen, were appointed to appraise the estate of Abraham Samson, late of Duxborough, on 8 Mar. 1776. The Inventory totaled £238.08.8, including his homestead farm valued at £173.06.8, his blue reaver meadow valued at £30, and his Pine hill meadow and flat ajineing valued at £13.06.8. The appraisers and Joseph Soule, the Administrator, gave their oaths to the inventory on 16 Aug. 1777.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Docket #17434, the will not recorded in the Plymouth County Probate books.

 

 

Will of Andrew Samson of Duxbury, Plymouth County, Massachusetts Bay (1785) *

In the Name of God Amen – the fifth day of November 1785 I Andrew Samson of Duxbury in the County of Plymouth in New England, being weak in body, but of perfect mind and memory thanks be Given unto God therefor, Calling unto mind the mortality of my body and knowing that it is appointed for all men once to die, do make and ordain this my Last will and testament, that is to say, principally and first of all I Give and Recommend my Soul into the hands of God that Gave it, and my body I Recommend to the Earth, to be buried in decent Christian burial at the discretion of my Executor, nothing doubting but at the General Resurrection I Shall Recieve the same again by the mighty power of God, and as touching such worldly Estate wherewith it hath pleased God to bless me in this Life, I Give, demise and dispose of the same in the following manner and form.

Imprimis—I Give and bequeath to Abigail my dearly beloved wife one third part of my Estate both Real and Personal as Long as she shall Remain my widow

Item—I Give unto my Eldest Son Samuel twenty Shillings

Item—I Give unto my Eldest Daughter Jedidah twenty Shillings

Item—I Give unto my Son Andrew a Certain piece of wood Land beginning at a Stake between my Land & Thomas Phillips Land thence by the Stone wall to the Corner of the pole fence Strait to the Road thence by the Road to said Phillips fence, thence in said Phillips Line to the Stake first mentioned, this Road is known the name of the Forge Road –

Item—I Give unto my Daughter Abigail twenty Shillings

Item—I Give unto my well beloved Son William Samson (whom I Likewise Constitute make and ordain my Sole Executor of this my Last will and testament) all the Remainder of my Estate both Real and Personal, he paying all my just debts and funeral Charges– and I Give him all my wife’s Dower or thirds at the Expiration of her widowhood freely to be possessed and enjoyed–and I do hereby utterly disallow Revoke and disanul all and every other former testament, wills, Legacies and bequests, and Executors by me in any ways before named, willed and bequeathed Ratifying and Confirming this and no other to be my Last will and testament—In witness whereof I have hereunto Set my hand & Seal the day and year above written

Signed, Sealed, Published, pronounced

and declared by the said Andrew Sam-                                                                           Andrew Samson                (seal)

son as his Last will & testament in the

presence of us the Subscribers

                Thomas Phillips

                Seth Chandler

                Perez Chandler

 

Presented for probate on 4 Dec. 1786 by William Samson, the Executor therein named, and proved by Thomas Phillips, Seth Chandler and Perez Chandler, the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to William Samson, the before named Executor, with Thomas Phillips and Perez Chandler, all of Duxbury, as sureties.

No inventory was filed for his estate.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 30, p. 40-42, from FHL microfilm #0550716.

 

 

Will of Barnabas Samson of Middleborough, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1749) *

In the Name of God Amen the fourth Day of May one thousand seven hundred & forty Nine – 1749 – I Barnabas Samson of Midleborough In the County of Plimouth in the province of the Massachusetts bay in New-England – Yeoman Being sick But of Sound minde thinks Be to God therefor Calling to minde ye mortality of my Body & knowing that yt is appointed for all men once to Dye I Do make & ordaine this my Laste Will and Testement that is to Say prinsepaly & first of all I give & recomend my Soule into ye hands of god that gave it & for my Body I recommend it to ye Earth to be Buried in a Christian like & Decent manner at ye Discretion of my Excetor and nothing Doughting but that at the general resurection I shall Receive ye Same againe by ye myty power of God and as touching Such worldly Estate Wherewith it hath plesed God To Bless me With in this Life I give & Demise & Despose of ye same In ye following manor and forme namely first I make & Constute my dearly Beloved Wife Experence Samson To be ye Sole and only Executor of this my Last will & Testement & By these presents I do give my Wife full power & Liberty to Sell all or so much of my Real Estate as shee shall see Cause giveing her full power to Execute Deeds or deed of the Same as She Shall See Cause – & what shall be Left of the produce thereof to gether With all the rest of my Estate both Real and personal I give to my said Wife during her Being my Widow for the Bringing up my Children and if shee shall see Cause to Intermarey, againe, my Will is that She Divide what was my Estate Betwene all my Children as She Shall Judge Best & as She please – Except her Thirds of it Which She may Improve Dureing her natural Life I allways Recommending it to her to Be Kinde to our Children & if She Should marrey againe To Settele her Estate Before & I would have her give our Eldest Son Barnebus my gun and Sworde

Hereby Ratifing this and no other to Be my Last Will and Testament

In witness whereof I have hereunto Set my hand & Seal this fourth Day of may 1749 as abovesd

Signed Sealed pronounced & Declared by ye said Barnabas Samson as his Last Will and Testament In presents of us                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                 Barnabas Samson                            (seal)

Benjamin Ruggles

Joseph Paddock

Steven  X  macomore

 

Probated on 6 Nov. 1750, and proved by Joseph Paddock and Stephen Mucamore, two of the witnesses.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 12, p. 130-131, from FHL microfilm #0551539

 

 

Will of Benjamin Samson of Plympton, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1755) *

  In the Name of God Amen. I Benjamin Samson of Plimton in the County of Plimouth in the Province of the Massachusetts Bay in New-England Yeoman being in good Health and perfect mind and Memory thanks be given to God. Therefore calling to mind the mortality of my Body and knowing that it is appointed for all Men once to die do make and ordain this my last will and Testament (viz) principally and first of all I give and recommend my Soul into the Hands of God that gave it & my Body to the Earth to be buried in a decent Christian Burial at the Discression of my Excr. nothing doubting but at the general Resurrection I shall receive the same again by the Mighty Power of God and as touching such worldly Estate as it hath pleased God to bless me with in this Life I give demise and dispose of the same in the following Manner.

First of all. I give and Bequeath unto my dearly beloved wife Margret the East End of my dwelling House and all my wearing Shop adjoining to it also all my Cellar & the one third part of my orchard and a lot of land I bought of Reuben Bisbee at Annosnapet in said Town all for her improvement as long as she remains my Widdow. Also my will is that my wife shall have the one third part of my moveable Estate forever also besides the said third part of my moveable Estate that she shall have twenty Dollars to be given her by my Executor to be hers forever –

Secondly. I give and Bequeath to my loving son Nathll. Samson & to his Heirs & Assigns the one half part of my Pew in the Meeting House in the first Precinct in said Town to be his and their forever.

Thirdly. I give and Bequeath to my beloved Son Philemon Samson & to his Heirs & Assigns forever the other half of my sd. Pew in sd. meeting House.

Fourthly. I give & Bequeath to my grandson Thomas Samson my Gun.

Fifthly. I give & bequeath to my grandson Joseph Samson the Loom which his Father used to weave in in his life time together with all my double Gean for weaving, allso my Sword, also my Cart and Wheels, & ploughs, together with all other tackling for my Team whatsoever & my half of the corn=House & also my right in the Barn both standing on my Homestead, all which I give to my sd. Grandson Jo. Samson provided he finds fire wood ready cut fit for the fire at the Door for my wife so long as she remains my widdow But my will is that if the sd. Jo. or his Heirs Exrs. or Admrs do not provide fire wood as aforesd. that then my wife if left a widdow shall have all these said Things to purchase her fire wood with or to dispose of at her Pleasure.

Sixthly. My Will is that after my Just Debts and Funaral Charges are paid & those Things above mentioned disposed as abovesd. out of my Moveable Estate that all the rest of my moveable Estate shall be divided as followeth. That the sd. Nathll. Samson or his Heirs shall have one quarter part thereof & that my Daughter Ruth Darling or her Heirs shall have one quarter thereof & that Mary & Hepsiba The two daughters of my Son Benja. Samson decd. shall have the other qur. Part of moveables aforesaid.

7thly & lastly I Constitute appoint & make and ordain my sd. Grandson Jo. Samson to be my sole Excr. of this my last will & Testament. & I do hereby utterly disallow revoke disanul all and every other former Testament Will Legacies Bequeaths & Exrs. by me in ways before named willed or bequeathed ratyfing and confirming this and no other to be my last will and Testament In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my Hand and Seal this twenty fourth day of January In the twenty Eighth Year of his Majesties Reign Annoque Domini one thousand seven Hundred and fifty five

                                                                                                                                                Benja. Samson                   (seal)

Signed Sealed published pronounced and De

Delivered By the said Benjamin Samson

to be his last will and Testament

                In Prescence of us.

Joseph Wright

Zabdiel Samson

Benja. Weston

 

Presented for probate on 2 Aug. 1762 by Joseph Samson, the Executor therein named, and proved by Zabdiel Samson and Benja. Weston, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Joseph Samson, the Executor.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Mr. Benja. Samson, late of Plimton, was appraised on 24 Sept. 1762 by Benja. Weston, Zebedee Chandler, and Ebenezer Soule, and totaled £108.13.2, plus an additional £10.16.8, but no real estate. Jo. Samson, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 9 Nov. 1762, and added an additional £7.18.8 to the inventory on 25 Feb. 1764.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 16, pp. 333-334, 385, from FHL microfilm #0551543.

 

 

Will of David Samson of Duxbury, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1767) *

The Last will and testament of David Samson of Duxborough in the county of Plymouth, in the province of the Massachusetts-Bay in New-England yeoman. I the said David Samson being under many bodily infirmities, yet of perfect mind & memory thanks be given to allmighty GOD therefor; and calling to mind the mortality of my body, do upon serious consideration make and ordain this my last will and testament. ~~~~~ That is to say.

First of all, I give and recomend my soul into the hands of GOD that gave it, and my body I recomend to the earth to be buried in decent christian manner at the discretion of my executor herein after-named, nothing doubting but at the general resurrection I shall receive the same again by the allmighty power of GOD; and as touching such worldly estate wherewith it hath pleased GOD to bless me in this life I give and devise and dispose of the same in the following manner & form.

Imprs. I give and bequeath to my eldest son Charles Samson the one half of all my lands & meadows lying in said Duxborough excepting fifteen acres of land at the southeast corner of my farm; which said fifteen acres I give to my son David Samson who is labouring under bodily weakness & indisposition, provided he should recover his health.

Item, I give to my son Ebenezer Samson six pounds, thirteen shillings & four pence lawful money, to be paid by my abovenamed son Charles Samson within one year after my decease. –

Item, I give to my son Jonathan Samson six pounds, thirteen shillings & four pence lawful money, to be paid by my son Chaphen Samson, within one year after my decease. ~~

Item, I give to my son Chaphen Samson the one half of all my lands & meadow lying in Duxborough aforesaid, excepting the above mentioned fifteen acres. ~~

Item, I also give my son David Samson liberty to live in my house, and my mind & will is that if my said son David should not recover his health, that my two sons viz Charles Samson & Chaphen Samson, shall have the abovesaid fifteen acres of land, and to maintain my said son David Samson equally between them. ~~

Item, I give to my son Chaphen Samson the one half of my barn, and all my dwelling-house. ~~

Item, The other half of my barn, I give to my son Charles Samson –

Item, I give and bequeath to my five daughters, viz Lidia Bozworth wife to Nathan Bozworth, & Mary Little wife to John Little, Mercy Hutchinson wife to Timothy Hutchinson, & Elizabeth Peneo wife to Peter Peneo, & Eleanor Farnum wife to Joseph Farnum, the remainder of my moveable estate, that I have not herein before given away, at my said wife’s decease, to be equally divided among my abovesaid five daughters. ~~

Lastly, My will is that my son Chaphen Samson before named, Be the sole executor of this my last will & testament, thus hoping that this my last will be kept & performed according to the true intent & meaning thereof. In witness whereof I the aforesaid David Samson have hereunto set my hand and seal this twentysixth day of March anno Domini one thousand seven hundred & sixty seven, 1767.

Signed, sealed & declared by the aforesd. David Samson                                                                    his

To be his last will & testament in presence of—                                                           David Samson   X                (seal)

William Thomas, Nathll Thomas, Nehh. Thomas                                                                                   mark

 

Presented for probate on 17 June 1772 by Chaphen Samson, the Executor therein named, and proved by Nehemiah Thomas and Nathaniel Thomas, two of the witnesses.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 21, p. 164-165, from FHL microfilm #0550712.

 

 

Will of George Samson of Plympton, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1773) *

In the Name of God Amen. I George Samson of Plymton in the County of Plymouth in New-England Yeoman being Weak in Body but of Perfect mind & Memory thanks be Given unto God therefor, calling unto Mind the Mortality of my Body & knowing that it is Appointed for all Men Once to Die do Make and Ordain this My Last Will & Testament & Desire it may be Receivd by all as Such that is to Say Princepally & first of all I Give & Recommend my Soul into the hands of God that Gave it & my Body I Recommend to the Earth to be Buried in Decent Christian Burial at the Discretion of my Executor hereafter named nothing Doubting but at the General Resurrection I Shall Receive the Same again by the Mighty Power of God and as Touching Such Worldly Estate wherewith it hath Pleased God to bless me in this Life I Give Demise and Dispose of the Same in the following Manner and Form Imprimis I Give & Bequeath to Hannah my Well Beloved Wife the Improvement of One Third Part of my Whole Estate During her Natural Life

Item  I Give to my Son Gideon & to his Heirs and Assigns forever, all my Right & Interest in my Mills both Grist Mill & Fulling Mill Standing on Winetuxet River, with all the Priviledges belonging to the Same Also I Give to my Son Gideon and to his Heirs & Assigns forever, about four Acres of Land which was Part of my Homestead Lying on the Westey Side of the Ditch that Leads from the Caurey Mill so called to Winnetuxet River, together, with my Lot of Meadow Lying in Donhams Neck which I Bought of Francis Miller Called & known by the Name of Millers-Meadow Also I Give to my Son Gideon and to his Heirs & Assigns forever my Lot of Meadow Lying at Whetstones Brook where Said Brook Emties itself into Winetuxet River, Also I Give to my Son Gideon my Smallest Iron Crowbar, & my Hens

Item  I Give to my Son Zebediel and unto his Heirs & Assigns all my Farming Tools & Utensills not before Given to my Son Gideon In this my Last Will & Testament ~

Item  I Give to my Two Sons Gideon & Zebediel my Weareing Apparrel to be Divided Equally between them ~

The Rest & Residue of my Estate both Real & Personal not before Disposed of I Give in Equal Division to my Four Daughters Viz Deborah Bisbe Hannah Perkins Rebecca Killey Elizabeth Cushman to them their Heirs & Assigns forever my Will is & I do Positively Order my son Zebdiel Samson to pay my Just Debts & funeral Expences. Lastly I do Constitute make & Ordain my Trusty & Well beloved Son Zebdiel Samson my Sole Executor of this my Last Will & Testament and Do hereby Utterly Disallow Revoke & Disannul all and Every Other former Testaments Will Legacys & Bequests & Executors by me in any Ways (before) named Willed & Bequeathed Ratifying and Confirming this and no Other, to be my Last Will & Testament In Witness whereof I have hereunto Set my hand & Seal This Twenty Seventh Day of August In the Year of our Lord 1773 ~

Signed Sealed Published Pronounced

& Declared by the Said George

Samson as his Last Will & Testament

In the Presence of us the Subscribers                                                                               George Samson                (seal)

        Thomas Loring Junr.

        Joseph Samson

        Zebedee Chandler

 

Presented for probate on 8 Apr. 1774 by Zabdiel Samson, the Executor therein named, who at the same time renounced the Executorship, and proved by Thomas Loring Junr. and Zebedee Chandler, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration Cum Testamento Annexo were granted to Gideon Samson.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Mr. George Samson, late of Plymton, was appraised on 16 June 1774 by Jabez Newland, Francis Shurtleff, and Thomas Waterman, and totaled £183.5.2, including a fresh meadow valued at £13.6.8, mills and remainder of meadow valued at £61.6.8, and cedar and spruce swamp valued at £14. Gideon Samson, the Administrator Cum Testamento annexo gave his oath to the inventory on 4 July 1774.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 21, p. 607-609, from FHL microfilm #0550712.

 

 

Will of Gideon Samson of Plympton, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1794) *

In the name of God Amen—upon the twenty eighth day of October in the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred & ninety four, I Gideon Samson Senr of Plymton in the county of Plymouth, within the Commonwealth of the Massachusetts bay in New England, yeoman, upon good & serious considerations & Labouring under the infirmities of old age, and being very sick & weak of body, but of perfect mind & memory, thanks be given to God for the same, and therefore calling unto mind the mortality of my body & knowing that it is appointed for all men once to die, do make & ordain this to be my last will & testament, that is to say, principally & first of all, I Give & recommend my Soul into the hands of God that gave it, and my body I recommend to the earth, to be buried in a decent & christian manner at the discretion of my Executor herein after named nothing doubting but at the great a General resurrection, I shall recieve the same again by the power of almighty God, and as touching such worldly Goods and temporal Estate that God has been pleased to bless me in this life with I do give & dispose thereof in the manner and form following

        Imprimis—my will is, that all my just debts & funeral charges be defrayed and paid out of my estate

        Item—I do Give and bequeath unto my beloved wife Rebecca Samson all & the whole use & improvement of all my real & personal estate during the whole time of her natural life, the whole of it

        Item—I do Give and bequeath unto my three kinswomen Hannah Perkins, Rebecca Killey & Elisabeth Cushman, all & the whole of my real & personal estate whatsoever it is (excepting what is hereafter mentioned) to them the said Hannah Perkins, Rebecca Killey, to them, their heirs a assigns Forever—and further it is to be understood and that my will is that the moveable Goods or Estate that my wife ye sd Rebecca brought with her at the time of her marriage to me shall be returned to her again or her heirs, at the time of my decease or at her decease if she should die before me

        Item—I do Give & bequeath unto my young kinswoman Abigail Cushman one feather Bed with the furniture, she being the Daughter of Joseph Cushman of Duxbury, to her heirs & assigns forever. and I by presents hereby constitute & appoint my trusty friend & relative Joseph Cushman of Duxbury to be the Sole Executor of this my Last will & testament, and I do hereby utterly revoke & disannul all other & former wills, testaments & bequests & Executors before by me willed, named & bequested, Ratifying & confirming this & no other to be my Last will & testament  In witness, whereof, I have hereunto Set to my hand & Seal, the day and year above written

Signed, Sealed, Published, Pronounced &                                                                                      his

declared by ye sd Gideon Samson to be his                                                                     Gideon  X  Samson         (seal)

Last will & testament in the presence                                                                                          mark

of us the witnesses

                Arthur Chandler

                Mercy Chandler

                John Wadsworth

 

Presented for probate on 9 Dec. 1794 by Joseph Cushman, the Executor therein named, and proved by Arthur Chandler & John Wadsworth, two of the witnesses.

 

Benja Bryant, yeoman, Thos Gannet, Gentleman, and Joshua Loring, Gentleman, all of Plymton, were appointed to appraise the estate of Gideon Sampson Senr, late of Plymton, yeoman, on 9 Dec. 1794. The inventory of the estate of Gideon Sampson, late of Plymton, yeoman, totaled £365.16.8, and included his lands and buildings at £177.6, various livestock, and farming utensils. Joseph Cushman, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 5 Jan. 1795.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 35, pp. 193-194, 198, from FHL microfilm #0550718.

 

 

Will of Hannah Samson of Plympton, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1774) *

In The Name of God Amen I Hannah Samson of Plympton In the County of Plymouth In New England Widdow Being Weak In Body But of Perfect Mind and Memory Thanks be Given to God There for Calling unto Mind the Mortality of my Body and Knowing that it is Appointed for all Men Once to Die Do Make and Ordain this my Last Will and Testament And Desire it to be Received by all as Such that is to Say Principally And First of all I Give and Recommend my Soul into the Hands of God that Gave it and my Body I Recommend to the Earth to be Buried In Decent Christian Burial at the Discretion of my Executor Hereafter Named Nothing Doubting But at The General Resurrection I Shall Receive the Same Again By The Mighty Power of God And as Touching Such Worldly Estate Wherewith it Hath Pleased God to Bless me With I Give Demise And Dispose of the Same In the Following Manner And Form

Imprimis I Give In Equal Division to my Four Daughter viz - - - - Deborah Bisbe Hannah Perkins Rebeckah Killey and Elisabeth Cushman My Wareing Apparel With all my Rael and Personal Estate to Them Their Heirs and Assigns Forever my Will is and I Do Constitute Make and Ordain My trusty and Well Beloved Daughter Deborah Bisbe My Soul Executor of This my Last Will and Testament and Do Hereby utterly Disallow Revoke and Disanul all and Every Other Former Testaments Will & Legacies and Bequests and Executors by me In any Ways Before Named Willed and Bequeathed Ratifying and Confirming this and No Other to be My Last Will and Testament In Witness Whereof I Have Hereunto Set my Hand and Seal This Twenty fourth Day of May In the year of our Lord 1774

Signed Sealed Published Pronounced

and Declared by the Said Hannah Samson

as Her Last Will and Testament

In the Presence of us The Subscribers

Jabez Newland                                                                     her

Job Weston                                                           Hannah  +  Samson

Elijah Bisbe Jur                                                               mark

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Docket #17525, the will apparently never probated in court.

 

 

Will of Henry Samson of Duxbury, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1768) *

In the Name of God Amen – upon the twenty sixth day of April in the year of our Lord, one thousand, seven hundred and sixty eight, I Henry Samson of Duxborough, in the county of Plymouth, in the Province of the Massachusetts Bay in New England, mariner, upon good and serious consideration, and of perfect mind and memory, thanks be Given unto God for the same, and therefore calling unto mind the mortality of my body, and knowing that it is appointed for all men once to die, do make and ordain this to be my Last will and testament, that is to say, principally and first of all, I Give and recommend my soul into the hands of God the Gave it, and my body I recommend to the earth to be buried in a decent and christian manner at the discretion of my executrix herein after named, nothing doubting but at the great and general resurrection I shall recieve the same again by the almighty power of God, and as touching such worldly Goods and temporal estate wherewith it hath pleased God to bless me in this Life with, I Give, Demise and dispose thereof in the following manner and form –

Imprimis – my will is that my just debts and funeral charges be defrayed and paid out of my estate

Item – I do Give and bequeath unto my beloved wife Joanna Samson all and the whole both of my Real and personal estate, whatsoever it is & wheresoever it may be found, to her and her heirs and assigns forever –

Item – I do hereby constitute and appoint my trusty and well beloved wife Joanna Samson to be the sole executrix of this my Last will and testament, and I do hereby utterly disallow, revoke and disannul all and every other & former wills, testament and bequests and executors by me in any ways before me named, willed and bequested, Ratifying and confirming this and no other to be my Last will and testament — In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal the day and year above written

Signed, Sealed, published, pronounced and

declared by the said Henry Samson to be his                                                                 Henry Samson                  (seal)

Last will & testament, in the presence of us

the subscribers. ~

                Salumith Wadsworth

                Sarah Wadsworth

                John Wadsworth

 

Plymouth Ss. novr. 1. 1787. whereas I am appointed sole executrix to the will of my Late husband Henry Samson decêd – and as it will be inconvenient for me to accept the trust, I do therefore hereby wholly refuse the same

                                                                                                                                                Joanna Samson

 

Presented for probate on 1 Nov. 1787 by Joanna Samson, the Executrix therein named, and proved by Salumith Wadsworth, one of the witnesses. Letters of Administration cum testament annexo were granted to Joanna Samson, she having refused the trust of executrix.

 

Jephtha Delano, labourer, Ezra Weston, shipwright, and Silvanus Drew, shipwright, all of Duxbury, were appointed to appraise the estate of Henry Samson, late of Duxbury, on 1 Aug. 1787. The Inventory of the estate of Mr. Henry Samson, late of Duxbury, was appraised on 1 Aug. 1787, and totaled £66.17.10, including his real estate valued at only £45. Joanna Samson, the Administrator cum testament annexo, gave her oath to the inventory on 1 Nov. 1787, and notified the court that the estate was insolvent to pay its debts.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 30, p. 247-249, from FHL microfilm #0550716.

 

 

Will of Isaiah Samson of Pembroke, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1840) *

  Be it known that on this tenth day of September eighteen hundred and forty that I, Isaiah Samson of Pembroke in the County of Plymouth yeoman being advanced in age but of a sound mind and memory do make this my last will & testament.

I give to my two sons Isaiah Samson jun and Thomas H. Samson the sum of ten dollars each.

I give to my daughter Betsey Wetherell the sum of fifty Dollars. I also give to my son Ahira Samson the use and improvement of the Farm whereon he now lives called the Fish Farm during his natural life. I give to my grand son George H. Samson son of Thomas H. Samson after the death of my son Ahira Samson the Farm whereon the said Ahira now lives with all the buildings on the same to the said George H. Samson his heirs and assigns forever and I hereby direct my executor hereafter named to pay all my just debts and legacies within one year from my decease out of any property that I have not disposed of. And I hereby appoint my son Thomas H. Samson sole Executor of this my last will & Testament. And I do hereby revoke and make void all former wills by me made

In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal the day and year above written

                                                                                                                                                         his

                                                                                                                                                Isaiah  X  Samson                               (seal)

                                                                                                                                                        Mark

Signed, sealed published & declared by the above named Isaiah Samson to be his last will & Testament in the presence of us who have subscribed our names as Witnesses –

                                                                                                                                                David Oldham

                                                                                                                                                Hervey Stetson

                                                                                                                                                Edward L. Stetson

 

Presented for probate on the third Monday of Jan. 1842 by Thomas H. Samson, the Executor therein named, and proved by David Oldham, Hervey Stetson and Edward L. Stetson, the Witnesses thereto subscribed.

 

Thomas H. Sampson was granted administration of the Estate of Isaiah Sampson, late of Pembroke, Yeoman, on 17 Jan. 1842, with Joseph Boylston and Isaac O. Stetson, all of Pembroke, as sureties.

David Oldham, Joseph Boylston and Harvey Stetson, all of Pembroke, were appointed to appraise the estate of Isaiah Sampson, late of Pembroke, on 17 Jan. 1842.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Isaiah Sampson, late of Pembroke, Yeoman, was appraised on 22 Jan. 1842, his Real Estate, the Fish Farm so called, was valued at $800, and his personal estate totaled $103.03. Thomas H. Sampson, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on the third Monday of Feb. 1842.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 84, pp. 4-5, 49-50, from FHL microfilm #0555267, and Vol. 1G, p. 186.

 

 

Will of Joseph Samson of Plympton, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1794) *

In the name of God Amen    I  Joseph Samson of Plymton in the County of Plymouth & Commonwealth of Massachusetts, yeoman, being weak in body, but of perfect mind & memory thanks be given to God therefor, calling unto mind the mortality of my body & knowing it is appointed for all men once to die do make and ordain this my last will & testament, & desire it may be recieved by all as such, that is to say, principally & first of all, I Give & recommend my soul into the hands of God that gave it, and my body I recommend to the earth to be buried in decent christian burial, at the discretion of my Executors hereafter named nothing doubting but at the general resurrection, I shall recieve the same again by the mighty power of God, and as touching such worldly estate wherewith it hath pleased God to bless in this life, I Give, demise & dispose of the same in the following manner & form

        Imprimis—I Give & bequeath to Bethiah Samson, my well beloved wife & to her heirs & assigns Forever, one third part of all my houshold Furniture. I also give to my beloved wife the improvement of one third part of all my real estate for & during her natural life

        Item—I Give & bequeath to my Son Peleg Samson & to his heirs & assigns Forever, the whole of my homestead Farm, with the buildings, privileges & appurtenances thereunto belonging including all the lands I have purchased adjoining my homestead farm, and also two Lots of wood Land at annasnapch[?] so called in Plymton, whereof one lot contains by estimation six acres and the other lot Five acres. I also give to my Son Peleg my oxen & horse, together with all my farming tools & utensills. And also a feather bed, bedstead & bed cord, & sufficient Furniture to dress bed decently

        Item—I Give to my Grandson Joseph Ripley & to his heirs and assigns all my wearing apparell

        Item—I Give to my Grandson Joseph Samson Waterman & to his heirs & assigns forever, one half of a Pew on the lower floor in the meeting house in Plymton being all the Pew I own in said house

        Item—I Give to my two Daughters vizt Phebe Ripley the wife of Samuel Ripley & Lucy Waterman the wife of Isaac Waterman, and to their heirs and assigns Forever, after paying all my just debts & funeral charges, all the rest & Residue of all my estate not before disposed of in this my last will & testament, to be divided in equal shares between them

        Lastly—I do constitute make and ordain my Son Peleg Samson & my Friend Elijah Bisbe junr my Sole Executors of this my last will & testament, & I do hereby utterly disallow, revoke & disannul all & every other former will & testaments, Legacies & bequeaths & Executors by me in any way before named, willed or bequeathed, Ratifying & confirming this and no other to be my Last will & testament.—In witness whereof I have hereunto Set my hand & seal, this tenth day of January in the year of our Lord one thousand Seven hundred & ninety four

Signed, Sealed, Published, Pronounced &

declared by the said Joseph Samson, as his                                                                    Joseph Samson                 (seal)

Last will & testament in the presence of us

the Subscribers

                                Thomas Sampson

                                John Bisbe

                                John Wright

 

Presented for probate on 7 Apr. 1795 by Peleg Samson & Elijah Bisbe junr, the Executors therein named, and proved by Thomas Sampson & John Wright, two of the witnesses.

 

Thomas Samson Gentleman, James Churchill Gentleman, & John Bisbe, yeoman, all of Plymton, were appointed to appraise the estate of Joseph Samson, late of Plymton, yeoman, on 7 Apr. 1795. The inventory of the Estate of Joseph Samson, late of Plymton, dated 5 Oct. 1795, totaled £330.11.3, including the homestead farm & buildings valued at £219, and a lot of wood land at £8.8. Peleg Samson & Elijah Bisbe junr, the Executors, gave their oath to the inventory on 5 Oct. 1795.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 35, pp. 229-230, 323, from FHL microfilm #0550718.

 

 

Will of Nathaniel Samson of Duxbury, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1749) *

In the Name of God Amen the fifteenth day of May in the Year of our Lord One thousand seven Hundred & forty Nine I Nathaniel Samson of Duxborough in the County of Plimouth & province of the Massachusetts bay in New England Yeoman, upon Good & Serious Considerations & being of perfect Mind & Memory Thanks be Given to god, and therefore Calling unto Mind the Mortallity of my body and knowing that it is appointed for all men Once to die Do make & Ordain this to be my Last Will & Testament that is to say principally and first of all I Give & recomend my Soul into the Hands of God that gave it & my body I recomend to the Earth to be buried in a Decent & Christian manner at the Discretion of my Executor herein after Named Nothing doubting but at the General resurrection I Shall receive the same again by the almighty power of God, and as touching such worldly Goods and Temporal Estate wherewith it hath pleased God to bless me in this life with I give demise & dispose of the same in the Maner and form following ~~~ Imps. my Will is that all my Just Debts & Funeral Charges be Defreyed & paid out of my personal Estate—

Item. I do give & bequeath to my Dearly & Beloved wife Keturah Samson all my real & personal Estate dureing the whole Term of time that She remains my Widdow Only Excepting & reservieng a room in my dwelling house with the privilige of Room in my Battine and Cellar for my Daughter Anna Samson that inwhich room my said Daughter Anna Shall Chuse to take & improve and to improve the whole of sd room with the privilige in ye said Buttine & Cellar while my said Daughter Anna shall remain unmarried & no longer. —

Item. I do give & bequeath unto my Eldest son surviving Robert Samson Twenty pounds Old tenour which he has allready received and all my Salt Meadow lying & being at a place Comonly Called Gotham in Duxborough Salt Marshes, and Likewise twenty pounds more in the Old tenour the said Meadow to take possession of and the twenty pound aforesaid old tenour money to be paid by my son Abner Samson at the Expiration of my wifes widdowhood —  Item I give and bequeath unto my Grand Children the heirs of my Eldest son Noah Samson deceased the sum of twenty pounds old tenour which he their Father has already received & likewise twenty pounds of the old tenour bills more to be paid by my son Nathaniel Samson at the Expiration of my Wife’s widdowhood ~~~

Item  I Give & bequeath unto my two youngest sons at the Expiration of my wife’s widdowhood all my Homestead farme of Land with all the Buildings Orchards & fences thereon and Fresh Meadow that is my two sons: Nathaniel Samson & Abner Samson with all my Salt Meadow at the Beach provided that my said son Nathaniel Samson quit & make void and of none Effect his Accompt of Debt that he has against me but if sd son Nathaniel Samson Should Neglect or refuse to quit or make Void his account as abovesd; that then his aforesd part of the said Farm of it to be Sold or otherwise disposed of at the Discretion of the Executor herein after Named for to pay the sd Nathaniel Samson his demand that is reasonable returning the overplus if any be to the sd Nathll. Samson (Only Excepting and reserveing my said Daughter Anna Samsons premises or priviliges as above Expressed) —

Item  I Give & bequeath to my two daughters Fear Simons and Keturah Cullifer to Each of them a Bed with the furniture which they have allready received and likewise to the said Fear Simons Ten pounds in Good bills of Credit in the Old tenour or in Good Moveable Goods to be paid by Thomas Cullifer or the said Anna Samson as they can agree about it at the End of my wife’s widdowhood.~~~

Item, I Give and bequeath unto my son Abner Samson One Bed with the furniture at my wife’s decease

Item  I Give and bequeath all the rest of my Moveable Estate to my two daughters Keturah Cullifer & Anna Samson Excepting a Bed with the furniture & my bigest brass kittle which I do wholy give unto my daughter Anna Samson, ~~ Item my Will is that all these premises abovesaid and bequests as abovesaid are given to Each of my Children as abovesd. to Each of them & their Heirs and assigns forever ~~

Item, I do hereby Constitute and appoint my trusty dutifull and wellbeloved son Abner Samson to be the sole Executor of this my last Will & Testament & I do hereby revoke and utterly disallow and Disanull all & Every other Former Wills & Testaments & bequests by me in any Before Named made Willed or Bequested, Ratifyieing and Confirming this & no Other to be my last Will and Testament  In Witness whereof I the said Nathaniel Samson have hereunto set my hand & Seal the sd fifteenth day day of May in the year abovewritten—

Signed Sealed Published pronounced

and Declared by the said Nathaniel

Samson to be his last Will & Testamt.

In Presence of us the Subscribers—                                                                                                    his

Mary Wadsworth                                                                                                                 Nathaniel  X  Samson        (seal)

Elizabeth Alden                                                                                                                                     marke

John Wadsworth jur

 

Presented for probate on 6 Nov. 1749 by the Executor therein named, and proved by Jno Wadsworth junr., Mary Wadsworth and Eliza Alden.

 

The Inventory of the Real & Personal Estate of Nathaniel Samson late of Duxborough, dated 30 Nov. 1749, was appraised by Joseph Delano, Samll. Seabury and Isaac Partridge, and totaled £3352.49.0, including his homestead farm valued at £1880, a piece of Salt Meadow at the beach valued at £300, a piece of Salt Meadow at a Place called Gotham valued at £100, and 80 bushels of Indian corn.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 11, pp. 378-380, 533-534, from FHL microfilm #0551537.

 

 

Will of Nathaniel Samson of Duxbury, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1788) *

  The Last will and testament of Nathaniel Samson of Duxborough in the County of Plymouth in the Commonwealth of the Massachusetts Bay in New England, yeoman – I the said Nathaniel Samson being under many bodily infirmities, yet of perfect mind and memory, for which I bless God, and calling to mind the mortality of my body do upon Serious consideration make and ordain these presents to be my Last will and testament to remain firm and inviolable forever, first of all I Give & recommend my soul to God that Gave it, and my body to the earth to be buried in a decent Christian manner at the discretion of my Executor herein after named nothing doubting but at the Resurrection I shall recieve it again by the power of God, and touching such worldly Estate as it hath pleased God to bless me with in this Life I Give and devise and dispose of the same in the following manner and form ~

First—I Give and bequeath to Mary Samson my dearly beloved wife the whole of all my Real and Personal Estate during her Life, that is the Personal Estate to be at her disposal as she shall think proper and if she should be in want she shall have Liberty of Selling any thing of off the farm to supply her wants

Item—I Give to Abner Samson and Mary Hunt his Sister who was son and daughter to Abner Samson of Duxborough deceased, the one third part of what shall remain after the abovesaid widow Mary Samson deceased to be a dividable Interest equally between them

Item—I Give to my Brother Robert Samson and my Sister Fear Simmons who are deceased, I Give to their Heirs one third of what shall remain at my wife’s decease ~

Item—the other third that is to be disposed of is in the following manner that is, one third part I Give to Thomas Gullifer son to my Sister Caturah Gullifer, and what yet remains I Give the one half to my Sister Anne Samson’s three Children, that is, to Anne Samson and Keturah Samson & Thomas Samson, and the other part that remains I Give to my Brother Abner Samson’s Children that he had by his Last wife, to be equally divided amongst them

Lastly—my will is that Gideon Harlow of Duxborough in the County of Plymouth, yeoman, be the Sole Executor of this my Last will and testament thus hoping that this my Last will & testament be kept and performed according to the true intent and meaning thereof in witness whereof I the aforesaid Nathaniel Samson have hereunto set my hand and seal, this twenty second day of April Anno Domini, one thousand seven hundred eighty eight 1788

Signed, Sealed & delivered by the above

named Nathaniel Samson to be his Last                                                                         Nathaniel Samson                           (seal)

will & testament in the presence of us

                John Hanks

                Joseph Pearce

                Ichabod Delano

 

Presented for probate on 4 Nov. 1788 by Gideon Harlow, the Executor therein named, and proved by John Hanks and Ichabod Delano, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Gideon Harlow, the before named Executor.

 

The Inventory of the estate of Nathl. Samson, late of Duxborough, yeoman, not dated, was appraised by John Hanks, Joseph Pearce and Ichabod Delano, and totaled £284.5.3, including his real estate valued at £202. Gideon Harlow, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 12 Dec. 1788.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 30, p. 491-493, from FHL microfilm #0550716.

 

 

Will of Rebeccah Samson of Kingston, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1769) *

                                                In the Name of God, Amen,

I Rebeccah Samson of Kingston in the county of Plymouth, being of a sound and perfect understanding & memory, do make this my last will & testament as follows. –

                                Imprimis, I give to my son Cornelius Samson twenty six pounds, thirteen shillings & four pence, and also one feather-bed with all the appurtenances thereof. Item, I give to his wife Desire Samson, my velvet cloak & velvet hood. ~

Item. I give to my son Benjamin Samson twenty six pounds, thirteen shillings & four pence, & also my cloth riding-hood, & all my houshold furniture of all kinds, which is not herein-mentioned. Item, I give to his wife Deborah Samson my black gown. ~

Item, I give to my grandson Micha Samson, thirteen pounds, six shillgs. & eight pence.

Item, I give to my grandson John Veazie, thirteen pounds, six shillgs. & eight pence.

Item, I give to my grandson Samuel Veazie, thirteen pounds, six shillgs. & eight pence.

Item, I give to my two grandchildren Deborah Veazie & Rebeccah Veazie, the bed I have in use, & all the appurtenances thereof, and also my old trunk, & what it contains, and also two large pewter platters to be equally divided between them. –

                                And I constitute & appoint my son Cornelius Samson my executor of this my last will & testament. In witness whereof I have hereto set my hand and seal this 6th. day of January in the year of our Lord, 1769. –

Signed & seald. in presence of us.                                                                                    Rebeccah Samson            (seal)

Samuel Kent

Silvanus Cook

Lidia Cushing

 

Presented for probate on 15 May 1769 by Cornelius Samson, the Executor therein named, and proved by Samuel Kent and Silvanus Cook, two of the witnesses.

 

The Inventory of the estate of Ms Rebeccah Sampson was appraised by Samuel Kent, William Drew, and Silvanus Cook, not dated, but totaled £157.14.5½, including an obligation on Zadock Thomas and Isaac Churchel with the interest valued at £117.13.0. Cornelius Samson, the administrator, gave his oath to the inventory on 15 Aug. 1769.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 20, pp. 226, 265, from FHL microfilm #0550711.

 

 

Will of Robert Samson of Duxbury, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1775) *

In the Name of God Amen. I Robert Samson of Duxborough in the County of Plymouth Yeoman being in a Poor State of Health And of Perfect mind & Memory thanks be Given to God Calling unto Mind the Mortality of my Body & knowing that it is Appointed for all Men Once to Die Do make & Ordain this my Last Will & Testament that is to Say Principally & first of All I Give & Recommend my Soul into the hands of God that Gave it & my Body I Recommend to the Earth to be Buried in a Decent Christian Burial at the Discretion of my Executor nothing Doubting but at the General Resurrection I Shall Receive the Same Again by the Power of God And as Touching Such Worldly Estate wherewith it hath Pleased God to Bless me in this Life I Give Demise & Dispose of the Same in the following Manner & Form.

First I Give & Bequeath to Alice Samson my Dearly Beloved Wife the whole & Sole Improvment of all my Real & Personal Estate during her Widowhood & if that Should not be Sufficient full Power to Sell of the Estate for her Support after my Funeral Charges & Just Debts are Paid my son Noah Samson Whom I Constitute & Ordain the Sole Executor of this my Last Will & Testament with what Assistance he Shall Chuse

Item I Give & Bequeath to my Son Perez Samson One Pound with what he has Already had to be paid after his Mothers Decease

Item I Give my Daughter Alice Samson One half Share with my Four Sons of my Real & Personal Estate Except what I Shall Mention hereafter. Item I Give to Noah Samson my Son Six Pounds. Item I Give to my Son Levi Samson four Pounds out of my Estate after my Wifes Decease And After these Legacies above taken out I Give to my son Noah Samson One fifth Part Levi Samson my Son One fifth Part Robert Samson my son One fifth Part & Consider Samson One fifth Part and to Edeth Samson my Daughter I Give One half Shear with four Sons which makes the Whole of my Real & Personal Estate after their Mothers Deceas And do hereby utterly Disallow Revoke & Disanul all and Every Other former Testaments Wills Legacies Bequests & Executor by me in any Ways before made Willed & Bequeathed Ratifying & Confirming this & no Other to be my Last Will & Testament In Witness Whereof I have hereunto Set my hand & Seal this Twenty fourth Day of January One Thousand Seven hundred & Seventy five. Signed Sealed Published Pronounced & Declared by the Said Robert Samson as his Last Will and Testament In Presence of us who in Presence of Each Other have hereto Set our Names ~

Perez Randal                                                                                                                        Robert Samson                 (seal)

Anthony Samson

Sarah  X  Samson

 

Presented for probate on 4 Dec. 1775 by Noah Samson, the Executor therein named, and proved by Perez Randal and Anthony Samson, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Noah Samson, the before named Executor.

 

Perez Howland, Ebenezar Chandler and Perez Chandler, all of Duxborough, were appointed to appraise the Estate of Robert Samson, late of Duxborough. The inventory, dated 1 Feb. 1776, totaled £329.19.3, including his homestead farm valued at £160. Noah Samson, the Administrator, gave his oath to the inventory on 4 Mar. 1776.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 24, pp. 43-44, 60, from FHL microfilm #0550713.

 

 

Will of Samuel Samson of Middleborough, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1744) *

Know all men by these presents That I Samuel Samson of the Town of Middleborough in the County of Plymouth in New England being at this present time Very Sick & Weak of body but of a sound and Disposeing mind & memory and being sensible of my own Mortallity and knowing that it is appointed for all men once to die do make & ordain this to be my last will and Testament to remain inviolable for ever.  Imprimis all the lands building and Improvements that I have Given to my two sons Obediah Samson & Gershom Samson by Deeds of Gift under my hand & Seal I Confirm to them their Heirs and Assigns forever. Item I Give and bequeath To my well beloved son Ichabod Samson all my Six Acres of meadow that I bought of Isaac Wadsworth and allso all my Other lands that I have not yet Disposed of to him his heirs assigns forever. Futhermore after my Just debts & Funeral Charges are paid I give and bequeath to my Aforesd Son Gershom Samson all my Wearing Apparell and all my Goods & Chattles that I shall have at the day of my Decease Excepting that he Shall pay to his brother Samuel Samson the Sum of five pounds old tenour & to his brother Ichabod Samson one of my Cows and to his brother Obediah Samson three Sheep & to his daughter Ruth One Sheep & to all the rest of his Children two Sheep more to be Equally Divided among them and allso that he Shall pay to his Sister Esther Burden one Cheap bible & he Shall pay to his Sister Mary Fuller the sum of five shillings old tenour –

Item I do Give & bequeath to my Aforesd. son Gershom Samson all my Debts due to me at the day of my decease whom I likewise Constitute make and ordain my Sole Executor of this my last will and Testament and I the Abovesd. Samuel Samson do Confirm this & no other to be my last will and Testament and In Witness Whereof I have hereunto Set my hand & Seal this thirty first day of August one thousand Seven hundred forty & four

Signed Sealed published & Declared                                                                                               his

By the sd. Samuel Samson as his                                                                                      Samuel   X   Samson          (seal)

Last will and testament In                                                                                                              marke

Presence of us –

Benjamin Gurney

John X  Savery Junr

Nehemiah Bennett

 

Probated on 20 Sept. 1744, and proved by Benja. Gurney, John Savery Junr and Nehemiah Bennett, the witnesses. Letters of Administration granted to Gershom Samson of Middleboro., the Executor, on 20 Sept. 1744.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 9, p. 338, from FHL microfilm #0551533.

 

 

Will of Seth Samson of Middleborough, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1770) *

Know all Men by these Presents, That I Seth Samson of the town of Middleborough, in the county of Plymouth, in New-England, being weak of body, yet of a sound & disposing memory & understanding, blessed be God for the same, yet being sensible of the mortality of my body, and that it is appointed for all men once to die, do make & ordain this my Last will and testament to be firm and inviolable forever.—

Imprs. I give & bequeath to my well beloved wife Thankful Samson one third part of all my movable estate, after my just debts & funeral charges are first paid out of the same. and also all the movables that she brought with her when she came to live with me; and further I give & bequeath to her my said wife the use & improvement of one third part of all my Lands & buildings during her natural life. –

Item, I give & bequeath to my daughter Jemima the wife of Lemuel Jackson, (beside what I have already given to her,) one dollar, to be paid her by my son Seth Samson jr.

Item, I give & bequeath to my daughter Kezia the wife of Jedediah Wood, (beside what I have already given her,) one dollar, to be paid to her by my aforesaid son Seth.–

Item, I give & bequeath to my daughter Betty the wife of Gideon Hacket (beside what I have already given her,) one dollar, to be paid her by my aforesaid son Seth. –

Item, I give & bequeath to my son Abner Samson, (beside what I have already given him,) one dollar, to be paid him by my aforesaid son Seth. —

Item, I give & bequeath to my grandson Issachar Samson the son of my son Issachar deced the sum of ten dollars if he shou’d live to the age of twenty one years, to be paid him by my aforesaid son Seth. –

Item, I give & bequeath to my aforesaid son Seth Samson all my estate real & personal, not already disposed of, to him his heirs & assigns forever. — And my will is, and I do hereby constitute & appoint my aforesaid son Seth Samson, sole executor of this my Last will & testament. Thus hoping that this my Last will & testament will be kept & performed according to the true intent & meaning hereof, I comit my body to the dust, and my soul to God who gave it. – In Witness whereof, I the aforesaid Seth Samson have hereunto set my hand & seal this thirtieth day of January one thousand, seven hundred & seventy.

Signed, sealed, & declared by the sd. Seth Samson                                                      Seth Samson                      (seal)

as his last will & testament in presence of us.

                Silvanus Cobb

                Jedediah Bennet

                Jacob Bennet

 

Presented for probate on 16 May 1770 by Seth Samson, the Executor therein named, and proved by Jedediah Bennet and Jacob Bennet, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Seth Samson, the Executor, with Ichabod Wood and Jacob Bennet, all of Middleborough, yeomen, as sureties.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 20, p. 372-373, from FHL microfilm #0550711.

 

 

Will of Capt. Simeon Samson of Plympton, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1787) *

In the Name of God Amen – I Simeon Samson of Plymton in the County of Plymouth, within the Commonwealth of Massachusetts Esquire, being under infirmity of body, but of sound and disposing mind & memory, do make this my Last will and testament – after recommending my soul into the hands of almighty God, and my body to the earth, to be buried in a decent & becoming manner, I Give, Devise and bequeath my Estate wherewith God has been pleased to endow me (after the payment of my just debts and funeral Charges), in the following manner & form vizt–

Imprimis – I Give and bequeath unto my beloved wife Deborah Samson the Sole use and improvement of my whole Estate both Real and Personal so Long as she remains my widow, and no Longer, saving and excepting what is hereafter in this my will excepted–and if she should marry again, then, & in that case, I Give to her, her wearing apparell, and no more, during her Life –

Item – I Give and bequeath unto my beloved Daughter Lydia Cushing Goodwin to be paid by my Executrix hereafter named in convenient time after my decease, twenty eight shillings Lawful money in Specie to be Laid out in a handsome Gold Ring, which Together with what she hath heretofore had of my Estate in Houshold Goods &c, I consider as her full share and portion of my Estate

Item – I Give and bequeath unto my beloved Daughter Deborah Samson out of my Houshold furniture, a feather Bed with Suitable Covering thereto, and a trunk – I also Give her (to be purchased out of my other Estate) as much furniture both for Quantity & Quality, as I have Given my Daughter Lydia Cushing Goodwin, agreable to a memorandum thereof which I have made, and to which I Refer, to be delivered to her by my Executrix hereafter named, at the time of her my said Daughter’s marriage or when her mother hath done with the same by her death or marriage—I also Give to my said Daughter Deborah, the priviledge of a comfortable & suitable Residence in my Dwelling House in Plymton so Long as she remains unmarried

Item – I Give and bequeath unto my two beloved Daughters Mercy & Marie each of them, a feather Bed with suitable covering thereto, and a trunk, to be taken out of my Houshold furniture, together with the whole of the remainder of my Houshold furniture, and their mother’s wearing apparell, to be equally divided between them, that is to say, when their mother shall have done with the same, by her death or marriage–I also Give to each of them a privilege of a comfortable & Suitable Residence in my Dwelling House in Plymton so Long as they or either of them shall remain unmarried ~

Item – my will is, that my Pew on the Lower floor in the meeting House be and remain for the use of the family so Long as they Live & remain together in my Dwelling House in Plymton

Item – I give and bequeath unto my beloved Son George Washington Samson out of my Houshold furniture (when his mother has done with the same by her death or marriage) a feather Bed & Covering suitable for the same, and my trunk, my Easy Chair and one Windsor chair, any thing in the beforegoing contained to the contrary notwithstanding–together with all my wearing apparell my Sea Chart, all my warlike instruments, Books, maps and Charts–I also Give Devise and bequeath unto my said Son George Washington Samson, all the remainder of my Estate, whether Real, Personal, or mixt, wheresoever the same is or may be found, to be to him the said George his heirs and assigns forever, that is to say after his mother’s term ceases and expires –

Item–I do hereby ordain, nominate and appoint my beloved wife Deborah Samson, Sole Executrix of this my Last will and testament–In Testimony and Confirmation of all which I have hereunto Set my hand and seal this fourteenth day of March, in the year of our Lord one thousand, seven hundred and Eighty Seven –

Signed, Sealed, pronounced & declared by ye.

sd. Simeon Samson, as & for his Last will and

testament, in the presence of us the subscri-                                                                   Simeon Samson                                (seal)

bers & in ye. presence of each other

                Isaac Lothrop

                Stephen Sampson

                Joshua Thomas

 

Presented for probate on 3 Aug. 1789 by Deborah Samson, the Executrix therein named, and proved by Isaac Lothrop and Stephen Sampson, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Deborah Samson, the before named Executrix.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Capt. Simeon Sampson, late of Plymton, was appraised on 17 Sept. 1789 by Kimball Prince and Seth Cushing, and totaled £891.17.7, his real estate valued at £638.14, including his homestead farm and buildings valued at £580. Deborah Sampson, the Executrix, gave her oath to the inventory on 28 Oct. 1796.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 31, p. 27-29, from FHL microfilm #0550716, and Vol. 35, p. 574.

 

 

Will of Uriah Samson of Middleborough, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1789) *

Know all men, that I Uriah Samson of Middleborough in the County of Plymouth & Commonwealth of Massachusetts, yeoman, being weak of body yet of a sound and disposing memory & understanding, blessed be God for the same, yet considering the mortality of the body, knowing that it is appointed for all men once to die, do make and ordain this my Last will & testament, to be firm & Inviolable forever.~

Imprimis—As a consideration to answer in the room of the Dowry to my beloved wife Anna in my Real & Personal Estate, I Give & bequeath to her my said wife two Good Cows – twelve Sheep– & the one third part of my Indoor moveables as her own proper Estate, and at her own use & disposal, also the use & Improvement of the one half of my Dwelling House where I now Live with the privileges thereof as Long as she shall remain my widow with fire wood ready at the door Cut of Sufficient for the Support of one fire during said term, with the use of a horse to Ride free from expences at any time she shall see cause during said term, together with the use of my Riding Shay at any time she shall see cause to visit any of her Daughters – also to be delivered to her yearly after my decease the following Articles – viz~. Fifteen bushels of Indian Corn – five bushels of Rye one hundred & twenty pounds of pork, Sixty pounds of beef, three bushels of tirnips three bushels of Potatoes, four pounds of bohea tea, three pounds of Chocolate half a hundred weight of Sugar, Six Gallons Molasses, Sixty pounds of Cheese, twenty pounds of Butter, half a hundred of flour & twenty four shillings in Silver money as Long as she shall remain my widow all the above enumerated articles to be Good & merchantable–also to be kept well for her winter & Summer two Cows & twelve Sheep during said term, yet excepting out of the said improvement of said half the said House for my two Daughters viz~– Mary & Phebe to have priviledges of Living in as Long as they shall remain unmarried, which privilege I do hereby Give them

Item – I Give and bequeath to my Son Ezra Samson besides what I have already Given him Six Shillings to be paid as hereafter expressed ~

Item – I Give and bequeath to my Son John Samson, his heirs and assigns forever, about thirty acres of Land & a Dwelling House, being part of that Land & the same Dwelling House which I hold by Deed under the hand & Seal of Experience Samson, being the whole of what is contained by said Deed, lying on the north-westerly side of the high way – also one fourth part of my new barn & privileges thereof – Also three acres of Land to be measured of my Land Lying near Mr Turner’s meeting house, which is known by the name of the Bolon Land said three acres to be measured of in an equal square as near as may be in the southerly corner of said Land, to be bounded by the high way on one side, and by the Line of my said Son John’s Land on one other side each Line an equal distance

Item – I Give and bequeath to my four Sons, Uriah Samson – Isaac Samson – Elias Samson & Daniel Samson all the remaining part of my Real Estate which I have not here before disposed of, containing my Homestead & out Lands & buildings to be equally divided between them to them their Heirs and assigns, and also to my said four Last named Sons, all my Live Stock & out door moveables (my Riding Shay excepted) together with two thirds of my Indoor moveables to be equally divided amongst them, to have and to hold the same by their paying out of the said Estate the debts, Legacies &c hereafter in this instrument provided & directed, and also all my debts dues or demands on any persons –

Item – I Give and bequeath to my Daughter Sarah the wife of Capt Josiah King the value of Eighteen pounds Lawful money in any Houshold Furniture which she may stand in need of or see cause to recieve – also Six pounds Lawful money in Cash, within the term of twelve months after my decease ~

Item – I Give & bequeath to my Daughter Hannah the wife of the Revd. Mr. John Reed my Riding Shay (excepting the privileges which I have Given my said wife as before described) Also the sum of Fifteen pounds Lawful money to be delivered her in Cash in twelve months after my decease

Item – I Give and bequeath to my Daughter Anna the wife of Hugh Montgomery the value of twelve pounds Lawful money, to be in some Specific articles that shall be merchantable, in twelve months after my decease –

Item – I Give and bequeath to my Daughter Mary Samson the value of Fifty four pounds Lawful money in Houshold Furniture or some Specific articles & Six pounds Lawful money in Cash, in twelve months after my decease ~

Item – I Give & bequeath to my Daughter Phebe Samson the value of fifty four pounds Lawful money to be in Houshold furniture or other Specific articles, and also Six pounds Lawful money in Cash in one year after my decease

Item – I Give & bequeath further to my Son Isaac Samson the value of Thirty pounds Lawful money, to be in some merchantable Specific articles in twelve months after my decease ~

Item – I further Give & bequeath to my Son Uriah Samson the value of Fifteen pounds Lawful money, to be in some merchantable Specific articles in twelve months after my decease. ~

Item – I Give & bequeath to my five Sons vizr John Samson, Uriah Samson, Isaac Samson, Elias Samson & Daniel Samson, to be equally divided amongst them, all my wearing apparell, together with my Pew on the Lower Floor & my half a Pew in the Gallery of the meeting house where Mr. Turner now preaches, excepting privileges for my wife before mentioned & my two Daughters Mary & Phebe to use & occupy for their own persons as Long as they see cause, which privileges I do hereby Give them — and all my just debts Funeral Charges, with all the afore mentioned Legacies, with the allowances, provisions & privileges Given & assigned for my wife as before described, shall be made out of & by the Estate which I have here before by this Instrument Set & bequeathed to my said four Sons Isaac, Uriah, Elias & Daniel & performed as abovesaid

                And my will is, and I do hereby Constitute and appoint my said two Sons Uriah Samson & Isaac Samson to be joint Executors to this my Last will & testament—thus hoping that this my Last will & testament will be kept & performed according to the true intent & meaning thereof I commit my Soul to God who Gave it, and my body to the dust to a decent burial—In Witness whereof I the said Uriah Samson have hereto Set my hand and Seal this Ninth day of July in the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred Eighty & Nine

Signed Sealed & declared

   In presence of                                                                                                                   Uriah Samson                   (seal)

 Nehemh. Bennet

   Seth Hoar

   Jonathan Caswell junr

 

Presented for probate on 7 June 1790 by Uriah Samson and Isaac Samson, the Executors therein named, and proved by Nehemiah Bennet and Seth Hoar, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Uriah Samson and Isaac Samson, the before named Executors.

 

The Inventory of the estate of Uriah Samson, late of Middleborough, was appraised on 7 Sept. 1790 by Nehemiah Bennet and John Nelson, and totaled £1658.10.4½, including his homestead lands with two dwelling houses and other buildings valued at £999. Uriah and Isaac Sampson, the Executors, gave their oath to the inventory on 7 Oct. 1790.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 31, pp. 187-190, 269-270, from FHL microfilm #0550716.

 

 

Will of James Sands of Oyster Bay, Queens County, Province of New York (1730) *

In the Name of God Amen this twenty first day of September in the year of our Lord Christ Seventeen hundred & thirty I James Sands of the Township of Oysterbay in Queens County Yeoman being in bodily health and at the same time in perfect mind and memory calling to mind the mortality of my body and Knowing that it is appointed unto all men once to die do make ordain and constitute this my last Will & Testament and principally and first of all I give and recommend my Soul into the hands of God that gave it me my body I recommend to the Earth to be buried in a Christian decent manner att the discretion of my Executors and as att Touching such worldly Estate wherewith it hath pleased God to bless me with in this life I after my funeral Expences and Just debts are paid and discharged, I give devise and dispose of the same in in the manner and form following Viz: Imprimis I give and bequeath unto my well beloved Son Othniel Sands the West Lott that I bought of Anthony Wright and half my right in the old purchase besides what I have already given him by Deed of Gift withall I oblige my Son Othinel his heirs Executors or Administrators to pay out of the said Lands given him unto my two Sons Abijah and John twenty six pounds New York Money that is thirteen pounds to each of them and in case my Son Othniel refuse to pay the said sum of twenty six pounds as aforesaid within one year after my Decease my Will is that on his refusal or neglect my Executors sell so much Land of that Lott purchased by me of Wright as will amount to the sum of twenty six pounds besides the necessary charges and the same to pay to my Sons Abijah and John or to their heirs or Executors or Administrators and this Will of mine shall be sufficient for my Executors to give Title for the same in Case of neglect or refusal of my Son Othniel as afore  Item I give and bequeath unto my Son James Sands to him his heirs and assigns for ever all my farm or Lands Messuages buildings Ediffices &c with all Medows Marshes Creeks and Sedges or Shedg bank as Appertaining thereunto now in my possession at Matenecock so called that is my home farm and besides all that I lately bought of Isaack Foreman and half my right on the East end of the Plains and I further give my son James two young Oxen two cows three horses Mares and ten Sheep six Swine and all my Carts and plows and plow irons and all Utensills or tackling thereunto belonging with all my Carpenters and Coopers tools and my Will is that my said Son James and my Will is that my Son James out of the Lands that by this my Will I have given him pay and discharge all my funeral Expences Just debts whether bonds or otherwise and also that he my said Son pay or cause to be paid unto my Sons Abijah and John forty Pound York money that is twenty Pounds to each of them Each of their heirs Executors or Administrators and that within the space of one year after my Decease and in case my Son James refuse or neglect to pay the said Legacys or Debts bonds or other securityes as aforesaid I Will that my Executors Sell as much of my Lands at Matenecock given him as shall amount to a sum sufficient to pay and discharge my debts and bonds and pay the said Legacies as aforesaid  Item I give and bequeath unto my two Sons Abijah and John all that half Share of Land of mine which is at Goshen in Orange County in New York Province which is in partnership with Richard Cornwell except one hundred acres out of the undivided given to Samuel Everett  I further give my said Sons Abijah and John half my right in Oyster bay old purchase to them their heirs and assigns for ever besides what I have given them by Deed of gift in Goshen and if either of them die without Issue the survivor to have all my Lands in Goshen given them in case the pleasure of God be that I dye before next spring that James pay out of what I have given & Shall give him ten pounds unto Abijah and John besides the forty pounds above  I further give Abijah and John a bed and covering boulster and two pillows convenient to the same and two Cows and Calves two two year old Steers and ten sheep when they can keep them and I Will that all the rest of my Personal Estate be Inventoryed after my Decease and that my Son James Sands for and in conderations of the payment by him to be made as above have the profitts and advantages of the said Personal Estate of mine for four years after my decease and then according as the inventory amounted to the same to be equally divided between my four Daughters Viz Mary Zerviah Jerusha and Sarah equall alike only I Will that James shall Keep the one half of Sarah part in his hands till Sarah hath a Child and if that never be then to James to remain, and I do hereby appoint and constitute my trusty and well beloved friends, but I Will and give unto my Grand daughter Sarah Everett ten pounds out of my Personal Estate before any division be made in my Personal Estate Caleb Cornell Esqr. of Hemstead and Samuell Underhill of Oysterbay Yeomen both of Queens County my whole and sole Executors of this my last Will & Testament hereby giving and Granting them hereby my whole power Strength & Authority to act and do as Executors as fully and largely as if the matter was more fully inlarged and I do hereby utterly revoke and disannull all and every other former Will Testament Legasie bequeath Executor &c. by me before this time Willed named &c. Ratifying and confirming this and no other to be my last Will and Testament  In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and Seal the day and year first above written

                                                                                                                                                James Sands                      (seal)

Signed Sealed published pronounced Declared and delivered by the said James Sands to be his last Will and Testament in presence of us

Wm. Burch

Pete Hegeman

Benjamin  X  Carpenter

 

Probated on 19 Jan. 1733, and Letters of Administration were granted to Caleb Cornnell, one of the Executors, Samuel Underhill the other Executor having relinquished his right to the Office of Executor.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from New York County Probate, Vol. 12, p. 126-128, copied from original Liber 12, p. 129-131.

 

 

Will of John Savory of Middleborough, Plymouth County, Massachusetts Bay (1778) *

In the name of God Amen. This twentieth day of May in the year of our Lord One thousand seven hundred & Seventy Eight. I John Savory of Middleborough in the County of Plymouth in the Massachusetts State being weak in body but sound in understanding and memory Blessed be God, yet being sensible of my own mortality and knowing that it is appointed for all men once to die do make and ordain this my Last Will and testament, that is to say, principally & first of all I Give & recommend my Soul into the hands of God that Gave it and my body to the Earth to be decently buried at the discretion of my Executor, not doubting but at the General resurrection I shall recieve the same again by the mighty power of God, and touching such worldly Estate as it hath pleased God to bless me with–I Give & dispose of the same in the following manner ~

Imprimis—I Give and bequeath unto my Loving wife Mary Savory the use & improvement of all my Estate during Life if she shall see fitt to improve the same ~

Item—I Give and bequeath unto my daughter, Mary Savory the One half of my indoor moveables excepting what I shall hereafter mention, also one Cow, also Liberty so far as she needs in my house, so Long as she remains unmarried, with the improvement of one half of my Real Estate during the continuance of her remaining unmarried

Item—I Give & bequeath unto my daughter Lydia Tinkham the other half of my indoor moveables excepting what I shall hereafter mention, to her, her heirs and Assigns forever ~

Item—I Give & bequeath unto my Grandson, Daniel Savory all my Real Estate to him, his heirs and assigns forever for him to come into possession of the one half thereof after his Grandmothers decease, by his Guardian, if then a minor and the other half at the decease of his Aunt Mary Savory, or at her marriage–also I Give him my Arms & ammunition, & also all my wearing Apparell, also all my outdoor moveables excepting so much as to discharge my Just debts & funeral charges ~

Item—I Give & bequeath unto my Grandson Nehemiah Savory the sum of Ten pounds to be paid to him at the age of twenty one years by his Brother Daniel Savory, & my will is that my provisions that shall be Left in case my wife shall not Live to spend them, shall be divided between my daughter Mary & my Grandson Daniel Savory in Equall proportion

And I do by this my Last Will & Testament, constitute and appoint my trusty friend William Shaw of Middleborough sole Executor to his my Last Will and testament, as also a Guardian to my Grandson Daniel Savory. In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand & seal the day & year above mentioned

                                                                                                                                                         his

Signed, Sealed, published & declared                                                                            John  X  Savory                   (seal)

   in presence of –                                                                                                                     mark

        William Bennett

        Nathan Cobb

        Joseph Ellis

 

Presented for probate on 6 July 1778 by William Shaw, the Executor therein named, and proved by William Bennett and Joseph Ellis, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to William Shaw, the before named Executor.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of John Savory, late of Middleborough, not dated, was appraised by Samuel Smith, Charles Ellis, and William Bennett, and totaled £318.0.3, including his real estate valued at £240. The appraisers gave their oath to the inventory on 25 July 1778, and William Shaw, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 5 Oct. 1778.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 25, p. 71-72, from FHL microfilm #0550713.

 

 

Will and Codicil of David Seaman of Oyster Bay, Queens County, Province of New York (1759) *

In the name of God Amen this twenty third day of March in ye. year of our Lord Christ one thousand seven hundred and fifty nine I David Seaman of Oyster Bay in Queens County on Nassaw Island and in ye. Province of New York being at this time in a poor State of health but my mind and memory Sound and good and considering the uncertainty of this life and knowing that all men must dye and leave this transitory World sooner or later do make and Ordain this my last Will and Testament that is to say principally and first of all I give and recommend my Soul into the hands of God that gave it me and my body to the Earth to be buryed in a decent manner at ye. discretion of my Executors hereafter named and appointed and as touching such Worldly Estate which it hath pleased God in his great Bounty and goodness to bless me with all in this life I give devise and dispose of ye. same in ye. following manner and form  Imprimis it is my Will that all my just debts be fully paid and Satisfied with all convenient Speed out of my movable Estate by my Executors hereafter named and appointed  Item I give and bequeath unto my dearly beloved Wife Mary Seaman her Choice of my beds with ye furniture thereunto belonging and also her Choice of my Mares with her side Saddle and Bridle and my Gold Shirt Sleeve Buttons and three Cows such as she shall chose out of my Cows  Item I give and bequeath unto my Eldest Son and heir David Seaman and to his heirs and assigns forever all that of my half of ye. Plain Inclosure (which is in Company with my Brother Zebulun Seaman) and also fifty Acres of Plain land out of my Share which lyes to the Southward of ye. aforesaid Inclosure  I also give unto my sd. Son David my Silver headed Cane and Mathematical Instruments and all my Books with all ye residue of my apparel  It is further my Will and I do hereby order my sd. Son David to pay unto his Mother ye aforesaid Mary Seaman when he arrives at ye. age of twenty five years ye Sum of Six pounds thirteen Shillings and four pence and unto each of his Brothers Willits Seaman, Micah Seaman Robert Seaman and Isaac Seaman ye. Sum of Thirteen pounds six Shillings and Eight pence and unto each of his Sisters (Mary Seaman, Temperance Seaman Rebeca Seaman Abigal Seaman Hannah Seaman and Martha Seaman the sum of six pounds thirteen Shillings and four pence which sd. Severall sums of money Amounts to ye sum of one hundred pounds  I also Will and bequeth unto my aforesd. Son David and to his heirs and assigns forever all my right Title and Interest in my Hill Lott so Called and the Orchard that I have at Jericho and ye Wood land that I have between Jeremiah Robbins his land and the Plains and further it is my Will and I do hereby impower and direct my Executors hereafter named and appointed or ye Major part of ye. Survivors of them that in case my said Son David Shall refuse or neglect to pay out ye aforesaid Sums of money to my aforesd. Wife and Children to Sell and dispose of so much of ye aforesd. Plains as to Satisfye ye. aforesd. Legacies and to pay ye. same as above directed it is further my Will and I do hereby require direct and fully impower my Executors hereafter named and appointed or ye. major part of the Survivers of them that shall take upon them ye Execution of this my last Will and Testament to Sell and dispose of all ye. remaining part of my Estate of what kind or Nature soever or wheresoever the same may be found and to give a good and lawfull Title to ye. purchaser or purchasers of my lands or any part or parcell thereof and when my Estate is Sold and turned into money as afore directed my Will is that when all ye. incidential charges is fully paid and to my Executors for their time and Expence about my affairs that my Executors shall pay to my aforesd. Wife Mary Seaman ye. Equall fifteenth part of the remainder of ye. money ariseing by the Sale aforesd. to her own propper use in case she Release her dower and not otherwise and I give and bequeth unto my Son Willits Seaman and to his own propper use two fifteen parts of the money ariseing by ye Sales as aforesd. and I give and bequeth unto my Son Micah Seaman and to his own propper use two fifteen parts of ye money ariseing by ye Sales as aforesd. and I give and bequeth unto my Son Robert Seaman and to his own propper use two fifteen parts of sd. money ariseing by ye Sales as aforesd. and I give and bequeth unto my Son Isaac Seaman and to his own propper use two fifteen parts of sd. money ariseing by ye. Sales as aforesd. I give and bequeth unto each of my Six daughters and to each of their propper uses (Viz.) Mary Seaman, Temperance Seaman Rebecca Seaman Abigal Seaman Hannah Seaman and Martha Seaman in equall Shares all ye. remaining part of ye. money ariseing by ye. Sales afsd. Which is to each of them one fifteenth part and my Will is that each respective Childs part of ye. sd. money shall be put out at interest by my Executors and ye interest of such Childs part or so much as my Executors shall judge convenient to be paid to my Wife for ye. Educateing and bringing them up untill they attain to ye. age of thirteen years if she keeps them so long and do not Marry and not otherwise but if my sd. Wife should Marry or dye before my Children or either of arrives at ye. age aforesd. that then and in such case I do hereby impower my Executors or ye. Major part of the Survivors of them to take ye. Children into their care and to Educate them at their discretion keeping back such Childs part of ye interest as aforesd. or so much as is necessary for their satisfaction and when each Child shall arive at ye age of thirteen as aforesd. the money shall be kept at interest each ones part for their and each of their advantages at ye discretion of my executors and my Sons to be put out to Trades at ye discretion of my sd. Executors and each Childs legacy to be paid to them respectively as they shall arive at Lawfull age or day of Marriage  And in case any Contest or dispute should arise in and about my Real or Personal Estate or any part thereof that then and in such case I do hereby fully impower and Authorize my sd. Executors or the Major part of ye Survivers of them to Compound agree Settle Arbitrate defend and Prosecute in Law or otherwise as they shall think propper for the Advantage of my sd Legatees in as full and ample manner as I myself could do in my Life time against or with any Person or Persons whatsoever.  Lastly I do hereby constitute Ordain and appoint my loveing Brother Zebulun Seaman and my beloved Brother in Law Richard Willits and my loveing Couzen William Seaman and my dutifull Son David Seaman all of Oyster Bay aforesd. to be ye. Extrs. of this my last Will and Testament giveing unto them or ye. Majer part of them that is ye Survivers and do take upon them ye Execution of this my last Will and Testament my full Power and Authority to Execute the same and I do hereby utterly disallow and disanull all and every former Wills Legacys bequeths and Executors before this time given and named Ratefying and Confirming this and no other to be my last Will and Testament  In Witness whereof I the sd. David Seaman have hereunto set to my hand and Seal the day and date first above written.

                                                                                                                                                David Seaman                  (seal)

Signed Sealed Published Pronounced and declared by ye sd David Seaman as his last Will and Testament in ye presence of us ye Subscribers

Peter Vanderwater

Robert Hubbs

William X Parsilo

 

Be it know To all men by these presents that whereas I David Seaman of Oyster Bay in Queens County on Nassau Island within ye. Province of New York having made and declared my last Will and Testament in writing bearing date the twenty third day of March in ye. year of our Lord Christ one thousand seven hundred and fifty nine I the sd. David Seaman by this present Codicil do ratify and confirm my sd. last Will and Testament and do give and bequeath unto my two Sons David Seaman and Willits Seaman my Smiths Shop and all ye. Smiths Tools of what kind soever to be equally divided between them and likewise I give to each of them a Gun and Sword which I have  Item I give and bequeath unto my well beloved Wife Mary Seaman ye. use & proffits of all my Houses lands and all other of ye appurtenances thereunto belonging untill ye same be sold by my Executors and likewise ye Grain that is now on ye ground and likewise all ye yarn Flax and Cloth both Linnen and Woollen that is prepared for Clothing for my Family and all ye. Wool that is on my Sheeps backs for ye. use of her and my Family and not otherwise and my Will and meaning is that this Codicil or Schedule be, and be adjudged to be part and Parcel of my sd. Last Will and Testament and that all things contained and mentioned herein be faithfully and truly performed and as fully and amply in every respect as if ye. same were so declared and set down in my sd. last Will and Testament  Witness my hand this twenty fourth day of March in the year of our Lord Christ one thousand seven hundred and fifty nine.

                                                                                                                                                David Seaman                  (seal)

Signed and Sealed in ye presence of Robert Seaman, James Townsend.

 

Probated on 25 Apr. 1759 at Oyster Bay, the will proved by Peter Vanderwater, Robert Hubbs and William Parslo, the Witnesses, and the codicil proved by Robert Seaman and James Townsend, the Witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Zebulun Seaman, David Seaman, William Seaman, and Richard Willets, the Executors, the said Zebulun Seaman and David Seaman being first sworn, and the said William Seaman and Richard Willets being duly affirmed, on 13 Jan. 1760.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from New York County Probate, Vol. 21, p. 483-488, copied from original Liber 21, p. 481-485.

 

 

Will of Jacob Seaman of Jericho, Oyster Bay, Queens County, Province of New York (1759) *

Know all men by these presents that I Jacob Seaman of Jericho in the bounds of Oyster Bay in Queens County on Nassau Island in the Province of New York Yeoman being this tenth day of the forth Month in the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and fifty nine Sick and weak of body but my understanding sound and memory good and well remembring the uncertainty of this life do make and Ordain this present writing to contain my last Will and Testament in manner following first of all I Will and bequeath unto my Son Gilbert Seaman one of my fether Beds & full furniture and half a dozen Chears to his free disposall  Item I Will and bequeath unto my three Children Viz. Jacob Seaman Gilbert Seaman and my daughter Amey Kirbe all my Books to be equally divided amongst them and to their free disposall  Item I Will and bequeath unto my daughter Amey Kirbe all my Household goods of all kinds whatsoever (except what is above given away) I also Will and bequeath unto my said daughter Six Cows and Six Calves Ten Ewes and Ten Lambs and Ten other Sheep and my Sorriel Horse and my rideing Chair and her side Saddle and Six three years old Cattle all to her free disposal  Item I Will and bequeath unto my Son Gilbert Seaman my Gun and two Cows and two Calves and four young Cattle to his free disposall  Item I Will and bequeath unto my two Sons Jacob Seaman and Gilbert Seaman all my houses buildings Lands and improvements of what nature circumstance or condition soever both lotted lands and lying in Common and all my meadow ground both Salt and frest lying in the Township of Oyster Bay or Hempstead or elsewhere to be equally divided between them and to remain unto them their heirs & assigns forever together with all the remainder of my Personall or moveable Estate except what is before given away to be equally divided between them and to their free disposal on Condition that my said two Sons pay and discharge all my just debts which I do owe to any manner of Person or Persons whomsoever and my Will is that each of my Sons pay the equall half of my said debts  Lastly I do constitute ordain and appoint my two Sons Jacob Seaman and Gilbert Seaman my Executors of this my last Will and Testament and my Will is further notwithstanding what is above written that in case either of my two Sons should happen to dye before my debts are fully paid then in that case it is my Will and I do fully impower the survivor of my Sons to Sell so much of my lands & Meadows as Will fully pay and discharge all my just debts and that such Survivor of my two Sons shall have full power to give a good Title to the purchaser or purchasers and out of the money ariseing therefrom my debts to be fully paid. In Witness hereunto I have set to my hand and fixed my Seal the day and year above written.

                                                                                                                                                Jacob Seaman                   (seal)

Signed Sealed published pronounced and declared by the sd. Jacob Seaman as and for his last Will and Testament in the presence of the Subscribers which Witnessed the same in the presence of the Testator

Isaac Doty

Willet Seaman

Samuel Willis

 

Probated on 7 Feb. 1760, and proved by Isaac Doty, of the Township of Oyster Bay, Queens County, Yeoman, one of the witnesses. Letters of Administration granted to Jacob Seaman and Gilbert Seaman, the Executors, on 13 Mar. 1760.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from New York County Probate, Vol. 21, p. 519-520, copied from original Liber 21, p. 516-518.

 

 

Will of John Seaman of Hempstead, Queens County, Province of New York (1694) *

In the Name of ye Lord Amen I John Seaman the Elder of Hempstead in Queens County upon Long Island (Alias Nassow) in ye province of New-Yorke Being weak & Indisposed in body but of perfect mind and memory glory be given to God for ye same but considering wth my self ye frailty and uncertainty of this Life wch is mortall & yt it appertaineth to every man to sett in order all worldly concernes so yt after Deceas noe suite trouble or controversy may ensue or arise for ye same and being well advised with that great and weighty work I am now about Doe make and Declare this my Last will and Testamt in manner and form following That is to say First and Principally I Doe recommend my Soul and Spirit to God and my body to ye Earth of wch it was framed to be Decently Interred att ye Discretion of my wife and my sons that may survive and as touching that outward estate that God had endeared me with all concerning of Lands goods & chattells I give bequeath and Divise in manner and forme following Item I do give and bequeath to my Eldest Sone John Seaman A certaine Two and twenty acre lott of Land more or less of which he is now In possession of where he now lives as also a certain Twenty acre lott of meadow more or less scituate upon a neck called by ye name of ye great Neck Lying Eastward and wthin ye  bounds of ye said Town of Hampstead to him & to his heyres and Assignes for ever Item I doe give and bequeath to my five Sons namely Jonathan Benjamin Solomon Thomas and Samuell Seaman Four hundred acres of Land according to a pattent granted by Collonell Richard Nicolls Scituate and Lying at a Place commonly called and Known by ye name of Jerusalem within the bounds of Hempstead aforesaid to bee equally Divided amongst them and to them and to their heirs and Assignes for ever also to my said five Sones namely Jonathan Benjamin Solomon Thomas and Samuell Seaman I give and bequeath a certaine neck of meadow Lying Eastward from said Towne of Hempstead called in ye Indian tongue Ruskatux neck bounded Easterly wth Oyster bay Line and upon Hempstead westward to be equally Devided amongst them and to their heirs and assignes for ever Item I doe give to my three Sones namely John Nathaniell and Richard Seamans ye Remaining of my meadow whereof ye one Mayetia of it is already confirmd to my son in Law Nathanell Pearsall wth four or five acres of ye Upland for his convenience for Yardage for wintering his cattle wch said meadow Lyes and is Scituate upon a neck called by ye name of ye half neck or in ye Indian tongue Muskachim to be equally Devided amongst my said three Sones and to their heirs and assignes forever (Item) I Doe give more to my Eight Sones To witt John Jonathan Benjamin Solomon Thomas Samuell Nathanell and Richard Seamans all ye Upland Lying and Scituate Upon Ruskatux Neck as also upon ye neck called by ye name of ye halfe neck excepting ye four or five acres confirmed to my Sonn in Law Nathanell Pearsall all wch Said Upland to be Equally Devided amongst my Eight Sones aforesd and to their heirs and Assignes forever (Item) I doe give and bequeath to my two Sones Nathanell & Richard Seamans all that my Lott of meadow Lying att a certaine neck called Stuklins Neck as also a parcell of meadow Lying upon New Bridge neck to be equally Devided betwixt them and to their heirs and assignes forever Also I Doe give and bequeath to my said Two Sones Richd & Nathaniell Seaman one hundred and Fifty acres of Upland Scituated and Lying att a Place commonly called Success by Vertue from an order from sd towne to be Equally devided betwixt them and to their heirs and Assignes for ever Item I doe also to my sones Nathanell & Richard Seamans a Certaine parcell of Land by estimation Three hundred and sixteen acres more or less Lying att or near ye harbor head so called being already confirmed to my Said two Sones by Deed of Gift to be equally Devided betwixt them and to their heirs and assignes for ever. Item I Doe give and bequeath all my rights of ye Undevided Land wthin ye bound of Hempstead to my Eight Sones Namely John Jonathan Benjamin Solomon Thomas Samuell Nathanell and Richard Seamans to be equally Devided amongst them and to their heirs and assignes forever Item I Doe give and bequeath to my welbeloved wife Marth Seamans a certaine home Lott adjoyning to ye Land of James Pine by estemation three acres more or less For and During her naturall Life or marriage and att her Marriage or Death my will is yt ye said home lott of Land Shall Descend to my two Sones Nathll & Richard and to their heirs and assignes for ever. Item I doe also give to my two Sones Nathll & Richard Seamans ye Remainder of my home Lotts ye Pasture and ye field att ye Eastend of ye towne called ye holly wth ye barne to be equally Devided betwixt them and their heirs and Assignes for Ever. Item I do give and bequeath to my welbeloved wife Martha Seaman ye one half of my Dwelling house and at her Death or Marriage my will is that ye said halfe of ye Dwelling house Shall Decend to my Sone Rich: Seaman and to his heirs and Assignes for ever. Item I Doe give ye other halfe of my Dwelling house to my son Nathanell Seaman and To his heirs and assignes forever. Item I Doe give and bequeath to my Loving wife Martha Seamans ye one third part of my moveables within Doors to give and Despose of as to hir Shall Seeme Meet. Item I doe give to my two Sones Nathanll and Richard ye other two thirds of my moveables wthin Doors to be Equally Devided betwixt them. Item I doe give to my Loving wife Martha Seamans one Paire of Oxen one horse and one breeding mare Four cowes Tenn ewe Sheep and one breeding Sow. Item I Doe give to my Sone Richd one three old mare, Item to my Sone Nathanell Seaman one Parie of oxen also to my sone Richard Seaman I give one paire of Oxen one Paire three year old Steers and two Cowes as also To Nathall one Paire of three year old Steers and two cowes. Item I doe give and bequeath to my well beloved wife Six acres of meadow Lying att hay bridge and att her death or Marriage ye said Shall Decend to my Sones Nathanll Richard Seamans in equall & portion to them and to their heirs and Assignes forever Also I give to my Daughter Mary Pearsall two cowes and six Ew Sheep Item I doe give and bequeath to my Son Samuell one pr of oxen and one cow and as for ye rest of my Stock of Neat cattle an Sheep my will is that the two third Shall be Equally Devided amongst my five Daughters namely Martha Pearsall, Hannah Carman, Mary Pearsall, Sarah Mott and Deborah Kirk and ye other third Part of my Stock of neat catle and Sheep to be equally Devided amongst my eight Sones John Jonath. Benj: Solomon Samll Tho. Nathll and Richd Seamans Item I doe give and bequath to my Daughter Elizab Jackson twenty Shill to be paid her when Division is made of ye Estate. I doe give and bequeath to Nathanll and Richard all my Instraments of husbandry of all Sorts to be Equally Devided betwixt them. Item I doe give to my Eight Sones above mentioned all my horse Kind to be Equally Devided amongst them I doe give to my Sones Nathanell and Richard Seamens all my armes excepting my Large Gun which my will is Shall be for the use of all my Sones Item I give to my Loving wife Son Nathanell and Richard ye rest of my Swine I doe appointe ordaine & make my Loving wife Martha Seamans my Sones Benjamin and Tho: Seamans to be my Sole Executors of this my Last will As also requesting my two Loving friends Tho: Powell & John Townsend sens’r to be overseers Desiring them to be helpfull in assisting my Executors to See this my will truely prformed in all thinges according to ye true Intend and meaning thereof revoking all former wills by me made and Doe Declare this to Stand & remaine my Last will and Testamt In confirmation whereof I have hereunto Subscribed my hand and affixed my Seale this ye twenty fifth day of August 1694.

                Signed Sealed and Published to be my Last will and Testament in ye Prsence of

John Smith                                                                                                                            John Seaman                     (seal)

John Carle

George fowler

James Clement

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from New York County Probate, Vol. 5, p. 76-79, copied from original Liber 5, p. 102-104.

 

 

Will of Richard Seaman of Hempstead, Queens County, Province of New York (1749) *

I Richard Seaman of hemsted in Queens County on Nassaw Island in the province of New York being pretty well in helth and of sound mind and memory, do make and ordain this my last will and testament to dispose of my outward Estate in the following manner first my will is that my Executors hereafter named shall sell all my Orchard and ye land the orchard is on lying at the South side joyning to James Pines Land and all my woodland lying in the South Woods Southward of the Towne and if any or either of my executors should die before it is sold the Servivors or servivor shall sell it and his or their deed or deeds shall be authentick and stand good in Law for the same and the Money it shall be sold for shall be to pay my just debts with debts with I do give unto my son Giles Seaman all my Land and Meadow lying on a neck commonly called Stickleys Neck to him his heirs Executors Administrators and Assigns forever only my will is that my well beloved Wife Jane Seaman shall have the use of it during her natural life my will is that my well beloved Wife Jane Seaman shall have the use of all my houses and Land that I have in the Town spot of Hempsted for and during her natural life and then my Executors or Executor that shall be living shall sell it and his or their deed shall be authentick and stand good in Law for the same and the Money it shall be sold for shall be disposed of after the following manner Ten pounds of it my Son Adam Seaman shall have and ten pounds of it I do give to my Son Daniel Seaman and Ten pounds of it I do give to my daughter Mary Seaman and all the Remainder I do give to my Six daughters Viz. Jane Titus Sarah Dusenbury Hanah Doty Phebe Seaman Elizabeth Townsend and Mary Seaman to be equally divided amongst them I do give to my son Richard Seaman all my land that lyeth joyning to his land where he now lyeth near a place caled hericks to him his heirs and assigns forever I do give all my right of undivided Land that I have in the whole township and patten of hempsted to my five sons upon equal shares that is to every one of them a fifth part to them their heirs and assigns forever that is to Richard Thomas Adams Giles and Daniel Seaman I do give to my son Thomas my Great Coat I do give all my moveable Estate excepting said Great Coat to my well beloved Wife Jane Seaman But if my wife should die before me then my will is that my Daughters Phebe Seaman and Mary Seaman shall have the one half of my said Moveable Estate and the other half shall be equally divided amongst my other four Daughters Viz: Jane Titus Sarah Dusenbury Hanah Doty and Elizabeth Townsend and I do nominate Constitute and appoint my son Thomas Seaman, and Son in Law Benjamin Dusenbery and Cusen Patrick Mott my Executors to execute perform and fullfill this my last will and Testament And I do hereby disanul disalow and make void all other former Wills made by me Ratifying and confirming this and no other to be my last Will and Testament as Witnes my hand and seale the fifth day of the second Month called April In the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and forty-nine

                                                                                                                                                Richard Seaman                               (seal)

Signed Sealed published pronounced and declared this to be my last Will and Testament in the presence of us

John Cochle

Joseph Thuston

Georg Fowler

 

Probated on 5 Apr. 1750, and proved by Joseph Thurston and George Fowler, two of the witnesses, George Fowler being a known Quaker. Letters of Administration granted to Thomas Seaman, Benjamin Dusenbery, and Patrick Mott, the Executors, on 14 Apr. 1750.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from New York County Probate, Vol. 17, p. 108-110, copied from original Liber 17, p. 110-112.

 

 

Will of Samuel Seaman of Hempstead, Queens County, Province of New York (1754) *

In the Name of God Amen the eleventh day of May in the year of our Lord seventeen hundred and fifty four I Samuel Seaman of the Township of Hempstead in Queens County & in the Province of New York being sick and weak of body but of sound mind and memory & being very sensible of my Mortal State do make this my Last Will & Testament in the following manner & form first I give and Recommend my Soul to Almighty God that gave it & my body to the Earth to be buried at the discretion of my Executrs. hereafter named & touching such Worldly Estate as it hath pleased God in this life to bless me withall I give devise and dispose of the same in following manner my Will and desire is that all my Estate Real and personal be sold by my Executors hereafter named to whom I give full power and authority to sell my Land & rights of Lands they or either of ym. or the Survivor or Survivors of ym. & such Deed or Deeds so executed by my Executrs. or the Survivors of them to be good valid & Authentick in Law as if myself had executed the same I will that all my Just debts be fully discharged I will and bequeath unto my four daughters Anne Seaman Margret Seaman Isabel Seaman & Millicent Seaman all the money arrising from the Sale of my Estate after my debts are paid to be equally divided amongst them share & share alike & to their heirs and Assigns for ever excepting such exceptions as shall be hereafter named that is to say may daughter Margaret Seaman to have twenty pounds less than my daughters Anne Seaman & Millicent Seaman & my daughter Isabell Seaman to have five pounds less my said two daughters Anne & Millicent Seaman I Will & bequeath unto my daughter Anne Seaman my looking glass & if my daughter Margaret Seaman does make apear to my Executors that she hath not had already to the Value of twenty pounds then my Will is that it shall be made up to her Lastly I hereby constitute ordain and appoint my Kinsman Jacob Seaman of Jericho & my friends John Hall & David Batty of Hempstead Executors of this my Last Will and Testament Ratifieing allowing & confirming this and no other to be my Last Will and Testament

                                                                                                                                                Samuel Seaman                                (seal)

Signed Sealed published pronounced & declared by me Samuel Seaman as my Last Will and Testament in the presence of Thomas Weeks, Thomas Birdsall John Birdsall Junr.

 

Presented for probate on 28 Oct. 1754, and proved by Thomas Weeks and John Birdsall Junr., two of the witnesses.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from New York County Probate, Vol. 19, p. 165-166, copied from original Liber 19, p. 155-156.

 

 

Will of Samuel Seaman of Oyster Bay, Queens County, Province of New York (1780) *

Know all Men by these Presents that I Samuel Seaman of Oysterbay Township in Queens County on Nassau Island, and in the Province of New York, being this sixteenth day of ye seventh month one thousand seven hundred and Eighty, sound in mind and Understanding and am willing to settle my outward affairs before my final change doth come, therefore do make this present writing to contain my last Will and Testament in manner following. Item I will and order all my Just Debts to be fully paid and all necessary Charges that may happen in the performance of my Will by my Executors herein after named. Item I give to my Daughters viz Rachal Hicks, Martha Titus, Abigail Willets, Phe Hicks, Meriam Robens and Ester sands each of them at my Decease the sum of one hundred pounds and all my Household Goods to be equally divided between them. Item I give to my Grand Children viz Samuel Seaman, Samuel Robens and Samuel Hicks, my Grandsons and Martha Hicks, Martha Willets, Martha Seaman, Martha Titus and Elizabeth Seaman, all my Grandaughters the sum of ten pounds, each of them Respecfully or to be preserved in my Executors hands hereafter named for there use and to receive their Legacies as they respectfully come of Age, and having taken into Consideration that I am now in possession of divers black People do hereby virtue of these presents give them all both male and female entirely free and full discharge all them and all them from me and my Heirs for ever at my Decease, feeling and entire freedom so to do in my mind, then as to the Remainder of my Estate both real and personal that is not given away already I give to my three sons Viz Willet Seaman, Obediah Seaman and Samuel Seaman, all to be equally divided between them and all my Lands and meadows both here and elsewhere, But having deliberately Considered the Leagacy given to my son Obediah Seaman, I have thought proper for his benefit and advantage to impower my Exeters hereafter named, and I do impower them and Each of them to take my son Obediah Seaman eaquil Part or portion of Lands and Goods into their care and possession, and Carefully to let my son Obediah have the Previledge and benefit of all his portion at the Desirtion of my Executors during his life or as they may think proper to dispose of to him for his good and I do give my Executors full power and Lawful authority if they find it necessary and most convenient to sell my son Obediah Seaman Lands to give a Deed or Deeds for the same as the Law Directs in such cases and if my Exts should have any of my Estate in their hands at my son Obediah Decease then my will is that his Wife Phebe seaman should have the use of the one third of the Estate left by him, and the other two thirds that that remains I give unto my son Obediah Seama’s Children, in the following manner Item I give his sons two thirds and his Daughters one third as they respectfully come of age, further observe the Leagacy given to my Son Obediah Seaman Wife is to be understood what is above written or given to her is during her Widowhood and no longer and her Portion to go to Obediah Children as their portion is directed, lastly I do Constitute ordain and appoint my Brotherinlaw John Williams, Samuel Way and my Kinsman Henry Post all to be my Executors of this my last Will and Testament in every part agreeable to the derections herein mentioned.

                                                                                                                                                Samuel Seaman  X  his mark.

Signed Sealed and Declared to be my last Will and Testament in the presence of us –

Jonathan Wright

Joshua Titus

Henry Post

 

Probated on 12 June 1781, and proved by Joshua Titus yeoman. Letters of Administration were granted to John Williams, Samuel Way, and Henry Post, the Executors, on 27 June 1781.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from New York County Probate, Vol. 34, p. 284-285, copied from original Liber 34, p. 225-227.

 

 

Will of Thomas Seaman of Hempstead, Queens County, Province of New York (1722) *

I Thomas Seaman of Hempsted in Queens County on Nassau Island, Yeoman Do make and ordain this my Last Will and Testament That is to say principally and first of all I do give and recommend my Soul into the hand of God that Gave it and my body I do Commit to the Earth to be decently buried at the discretion of my Executors hereafter named and as touching my Worldly Estate where with it hath pleased God to bless me Withal in this Life I do give devise and dispose of in the following manner and form  Imprimis I Will that all Such Just debts as I do owe to any person or persons Shall be well and truly paid and Contented by my Executors hereafter Named  Item I do give and bequeath unto my Loving Wife Mary Seaman The Equal third part of all my Moveable and houshold Stuff within Doors only what herein Shall be Otherwise disposed of  Item I Give unto my Loving Wife four Cows twelve Sheep two horses and two Mares Item I Do Give and Bequeath unto my Son Thomas Seaman and unto his heirs and Assigns for Ever the Lot of Land where his house now Stands that I have given him a Deed for  Item I do give and bequeath unto my son Samuel Seaman and to his heirs and Assigns forever the Lot of Land that runs across the East run where his house now Stands  Item I give unto my Son John Seaman And to his heirs and Assigns forever my houshold and Dwelling house and barn And all the Land over in the Neck So Called and Swamp pasture so called  Item I do give unto my Son Samuel Seaman and to his heirs and Assigns forever A peice of Land and Fresh meadow that was Solomon Seamans that lyeth on the West Side of the neck between the Indian path and my own Lott of Land  Item I do give unto my Son John Seaman and to his heirs and Assigns for Ever my Lot of Land with the peice of Fresh meadow thereunto belonging that lyeth on the West Side of Seamans Neck so called above the Cross New fence  Item I do give unto my three Sons and unto their heirs and Assigns forever all my meadow both Salt and fresh upon the neck and Island Viz. my son Thomas Seaman Samuel Seaman and John Seaman to be equally divided amongst them all  Item I give unto my son Nathaniel Seaman the full sum of fifty pounds of Current money of New York to be paid unto him by my three sons Thomas Seaman Samuel Seaman and John Seaman in form and manner following or hereafter mentioned  Item I do give unto my Son Silvanus Seaman the full and Just sum of fifty pounds of Currant money of New York to be paid unto him by my three Sons Thomas Seaman Samuel and John Seaman as it shall hereinafter be mentioned  Item my Will is that my Loving Wife Mary Seaman Shall have the Southern room of my old house and the new East room that is built on the East side of my old house during her widdowhood and the use of the equal third part of all my homestead the Swamp pasture and the Land over in the neck and the use of one half of the barn During her widdowhood and the use of the equal third part of all my meadow both on the neck and Island and use of the equal third part of the Land within the neck that I have given my son John during her Widdowhood with A priveledge to Cut Timber on any of my Land  Item I do give unto my three Sons Thomas Seaman Samuel Seaman and John Seaman and their heirs and Assigns forever all the remaining part of my Land both in the patten of my Father John Seaman Deceased and in the undeeded Land in the Township of Hempsted to be equally divided amongst all  Item I do give unto my daughter Hannah Seaman one Feather bed and furniture and one Iron pot Six plates three platters two Basons one Drinking pot one Cupboard worth three pounds and Six Chairs three Cows Six Ews and one Table  Item I do give and bequeath unto my Grandson Isaac Seaman one two year old heifer and one two Year old mare  Item I give unto my Son John Seaman Two Oxen  Item I give and bequeath unto my Loving Wife Mary Seaman and unto my Son Samuel Seaman and unto my son John Seaman All my Tooles and Tackling to be Equally divided amongst them all Item I give unto my Son John Seaman ten sheep and to my son Samuel five Sheep  Item I give unto my Loving Wife Mary Seaman one Feather bed and furniture. Item my Will is that my son John Seaman Shall pay unto my Son Nathaniel Seaman Forty pounds of Currant Money of New York within A twelve month after my Decease and my Son Samuel Seaman shall pay unto my son Nathaniel Seaman ten pounds of Like Currant as aforesaid within a twelvemonth after my decease as aforesaid  Item my Will is that my son Thomas Seaman shall pay unto my Son Silvanus Seaman Thirty pounds of Currant money of New York within a Twelve month After my decease as aforesaid  Item my Will is that my Son Samuel Seaman Shall pay unto my Son Silvanus Seaman twenty pounds of like money as aforesaid within a Twelve month after my decease  Item my Will is that if in Case that my Three Sons Thomas Seaman Samuel Seaman and John Seaman will not the money as aforesaid Then my Will is that my Two Sons Nathaniel Seaman and Silvanus Seaman and their heirs and Assigns forever Shall have and Enjoy two equal fifth parts of all my below the Cross Fence upon Seamans Neck and the Island to be equally divided between them and the other three fifth parts of the meadow to be Equally divided between my three Sons Thomas Seaman Samuel Seaman and John Seaman and their heirs and Assigns for Ever also my Will is that if my three Sons Thomas Seaman Samuel Seaman and John Seaman Will not pay the money unto my two Sons Nathaniel Seaman and Silvanus Seaman as aforesaid then my two Sons Nathaniel Seaman and Silvanus Seaman shall also have and enjoy the equal two fifth parts of all my Land upon Seamans Neck above the Indian path and the equal two fifth part of all my right of the undivided Land in the Township of Hempstead to be equally divided between them and their heirs and Assigns for ever and the other three fifths to be equally divided between my three Sons Thomas Seaman Samuel Seaman and John Seaman their heirs and Assigns forever  Item I give unto my Daughter Abigail Jackson Wife of Samuel Jackson one Cubbard  Item my Will is one third part of all the remaining part of my moveable Shall be equally divided between my Six Sons Thomas Seaman Richard Seaman Samuel Seaman John Seaman Nathaniel Seaman and Silvanus Seaman and the other two third parts to be equally divided amongst my four daughters Mary Smith Abigail Jackson Elizabeth Alling and Hannah Seaman  Item I do hereby make ordain Constitute and appoint my Loving Son Richard Seaman and my two friends Thomas Parsall and Benjamin Seaman Juñ: Executors of this my Last Will and Testament Lastly I do hereby Disallow disannul and ___ all other Wills Legacies and Testaments and Extors by me at any time Willed and bequeathed ratifying allowing this and no other to be my Last Will and Testament In Witness hereof I have hereunto set my hand and Seal this fourteenth day of November and in the Year of our Lord Seventeen hundred and twenty two       

                                                                                                                                                Thomas Seaman                               (seal)

Signed sealed published pronounced and declared by the said Thomas Seaman to be his last will and Testament in the presence of

Jacob Seaman

James Seaman

Solomon Seaman

 

Probated on 29 Dec. 1724, and Letters of Administration granted to Thomas Parsall and Benjamin Seaman Jun., two of the Executors, with power being reserved unto Richard Seaman, the other Executor.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from New York County Probate, Vol. 10, p. 11-14, copied from original Liber 10, p. 13-15.

 

 

Will of Thomas Seaman of Jerusalem, Hempstead, Queens County, Province of New York (1762) *

These Presents Witnesseth that I Thomas Seaman of Jerusalem of the Township of Hempstead in Queens County in the Province of New York being this twenty ninth day of March Anno Domini one thousand seven hundred and Sixty two far advanced in years and indesposed in Body but my memory and understanding Good and sound and calling to mind the uncertainty of my time in this Life and being Desirous to Settle my Worldly affair before my Final Change Commeth I do therefore make and Ordain this my last Will and Testament as followeth I give and bequeath to my well beloved Wife Hannah Seaman all my Moveable Estate Except my Farming Utensils and if she should Die before this Will is in force then my Will is that the same Legacy be equally divided bettween my two Daughters Elisabeth Titus and Hannah Seaman and my Will further is and I do give to my said Wife the use of my Eastermost Room where we now dwell and a priviledge in my Kitchen Seller and Orchard and it is also my Will and I do Order and Direct my two Sons Richard Seaman and Thomas Seaman Each to pay the sum of Fifteen Pounds Currant Money of said Province annually to my said Wife during the term of her natural Life if she demandeth the same I give and Devise to my Son Richard Seaman and to his heirs and assigns forever a Certain part of my Homested Lands bounded as followeth beginning at the South East Corner of said Devised Land Joining to Land belonging to Samuel Seaman from thence running Westerly along a partition Fence as the Fence now Standeth which divideth said land from another part of said Homested so far until it cometh in a Direct Range with the Eastermost Row of Apple Trees Standing on the North Side of said Fence thence Northerly ranging with the Said Row of apple Trees so far and until it Commeth to another Partition Fence thence Westerly by the said Fence as it Stands across the hollow to the Edge of the Hill thence Northerly by the said Hill edge until it cometh to the Land that my Son Thomas Bought of Uriah Van de Water taking in some apple trees standing on said Hill edge called the Nussery and all the Land northward of the said Nussery as far Westward as the same hath been Commonly Plowed bounded Northerly by said Land bought of Vandewater and Easterly by lands of said Richard Seaman and also all my meadow and upland which I have lying on Oysterbay West Neck and also the Equal half part of my Meadow lying at the bottom of Seamans Neck I give and Devise to my son Thomas Seaman and to his heirs and assigns forever all the remainder of my Homestead Lands with all the appurtenances thereof and also a Small piece of Land called Josephs Lott and also apiece of Land lying on Seamans Neck near South whereon now Liveth the Widow Rachel Stivers and also another small piece of Land on said Neck Joining on the South side of the high way that leadeth across the said Neck and also Joining to half Neck Creek and also all my Meadow lying on the said Neck and half neck (Except what I have herein devised to my Son Richard) all which Lands and Meadows which I have devised to my said Son Thomas is under this Restriction and upon Condition that he Pay or cause to be paid all my Just Debts which shall be due from me at the time of my Decease and pay or cause to be paid to his Brother Richard Seaman or to his heirs Executors or Administrator the Just and full sum of one hundred and Five Pound Currant money of said Province within twelve months after my Decease and also Annually pay his Mother fifteen Pounds as is afore Ordered and Directed and not otherwise and all the residue of my moveable Estate that is not already herein bequeathed I give and bequeath to my said Son Thomas Except an Ox yoke and Irons and an Ox Chain which I give and bequeath to my Son Richard above named and all the remaining part of my Lands Meadows Plain Land or Right of Lands and Meadows whatsoever I give and Devise to my two Sons above named and to each of their heirs and assigns forever to be equally divided between them, and Lastly I do constitute and appoint and Impower my two Sons above named and William Seaman of Jerico to be the Executors of this my Will and if my Son Richard shall refuse or neglect to pay to his Mother fifteen Pounds Annually as I have herein Ordered and Directed in such Case I fully impower my other two Executors above named and each of them to Sell so much of the Land or Meadow herein Devised to said Richard as shall be Sufficient and pay the money arising thereby to my said Wife and my Will Further is that in the Division of my Plain Land above devised to my two Sons that Thomas shall have all the Plains that is inclosed Joining to the Homestead Land which is given him in part of his Share of said Plain, In Witness whereof I the said Thomas Seaman have hereunto set my hand and Seal the year and day first above written.

                                                                                                                                                Thomas Seaman                               (seal)

Signed Sealed Published and Declared by him the said Thomas Seaman as and for his last Will and Testament in the Presence of us who have Subscribed out names at Witnesses in the Presence of the Testator

Samuel Seaman

Elijah Seaman

James Poole

 

Probated on 2 Sept. 1762, and proved by Elijah Seaman and James Poole, of Queens County in the Township of Hempstead, both Cordwainers. Letters of Administration granted to Richard Seaman and Thomas Seaman, two of the Executors, on 19 Oct. 1762.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from New York County Probate, Vol. 23, p. 517-519, copied from original Liber 23, p. 477-479.

 

 

Will of Zebulon Seaman of Jerusalem, Hempstead, Queens County, Province of New York (1778) *

These Presents Witnesseth that I Zebulon Seaman of Jerusalem in the Township of Hempstead in Queens County and Province of New York being this Tenth day of October in the year of Our Lord seventeen hundred and seventy eight of perfect and sound mind and memory and Calling to mind the uncertainty of my Time in this Life, do therefore make ordain and publish this my last Will and Testament as followeth– First it is my Will that all my Estate both real and personal be put to sale and Sold by and at the discretion of my Executors hereafter named and I give and bequeath my whole Estate both real and personal unto my three nephews namely Jacob Seaman, Zebulon Seaman and Rowland Seaman and to their heirs and assigns for ever, Equally to be divided amongst them share and share alike, after all my lawful Debts and Funeral Charges are first paid out of the same– And Lastly I do appoint and impower Jonathan Rowland and Thomas Seaman Schoolmaster, to be Executors of this my last Will and Testament, giving unto them and each of them respectively my full power and Authority for that purpose –

                In Witness whereof I the said Zebulon Seaman have hereunto set my hand and Seal the day and year above written.

        Signed Sealed published and declared by the said Zebulon Seaman as his last Will and Testament, in the presence of us, who have subscribed our names as Witnesses in the presence of the Testator

                                                                                                                                                Zebulon Seaman                              (seal)

Israel Seamans

Samuel Jackson

Almy Seaman

 

Probated on 12 Mar. 1783, and proved by Israel Seaman and Samuel Jackson, both of Hempstead, yeoman, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration granted to Thomas Seaman, one of the Executors, on 20 Mar. 1783.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from New York County Probate, Vol. 35, p. 389-391, copied from original Liber 35, p. 224-225.

 

 

Will and Codicil of Zebulun Seaman alias Zebulun Williams of Oyster Bay, Queens County, Province of New York (1781) *

These presents Witnesseth that I Zebulun Williams late Zebulun Seaman of the Township of Oister Bay in Queens County in the province of New York being this thirty first day of May Anno domini one thousand seven hundred and eighty one indisposed in body but my memory and understanding good and sound and remembering and considering the uncertainty of my time in this life do make and ordain this my last Will and Testament as followeth (Imprimis) I give and bequeath to my well beloved Wife Phebe Seaman her Choice of my horses and my riding Chair (Item) I give and bequeath to my Son Zebulun Seaman John Williams Seaman and Leonard Seaman all my wearing apparrel to be equally divided between them (Item) I give and bequeath to my son John Williams Seaman my Ivory head Cane (Item) I give and bequeath to my Son Leonard Seaman the sum of twenty five pounds or choice of my horses after my above named Wife has had her choice I also give and bequeath to my Wife above named Sufficient provisions for the use and Support of my family untill my lands shall be sold by my Executors herein hereafter named and appointed and my Will is and I do order and direct said Executors or any or such of them as shall qualyfy and take the trust upon them of executing this my Will in some convenient time at their discretion to sell my whole estate both real and personal (the above legacies only excepted) and the money arising by the sale thereof to be divided (after my just debts are paid) amongst my Wife aforenamed and my Children namely my Sons Zebulun Seaman John Williams Seaman and Leonard Seaman and my daughters Leah Willits Mary Seaman, Martha Doty and Phebe Seaman to be divided amongst them in this proportion my Sons to have each a double share with my Wife and daughters and they each a single share or half as much as one of my Sons which division is to be made with this reserve that inasmuch as my daughter Leah and my Sons Zebulun and John hath already received a part of their portions my Will is that my aforesaid daughter Leah shall have sixty Pounds less then any one of the other daughters and my Sons Zebulun and John shall have one hundred Pounds each less that my son Leonard and my Will is that the legacies above bequeathed to my Wife be in lieu of her right of Dower and not otherwise and notwithstanding the general order for the Sale of my estate my Will is that my Wife shall have such articles thereof as she shall Chose according to the apprisement of impartial men in part of her legacy and my Will further is that when my Executors shall have sold my estate and turned it into money that they give each Legatee his or her Legacy as soon as they arrive to lawfull age or day of marriage and my Will is that the legacies belonging to those under age be put at Interest at the discretion of my Executors for their respective uses and if it should happen that either of my said Children should die before the time above limited for them to receive their Legacy in such case my Will is that such disceased Childs legacy shall be divided amongst my Surviving Legatees in the same proportion as the Legacies are given Viz the Sons double to the daughters and whereas there is a body of land at Jericho belonging between William Seaman disceased & me of which there hath been no division Setled and Confirmed by us and also an exchange of land between Richard Willits and me which is not confirmed by writing I therefore impower my Executors of this my Will namely John Williams Seaman and Leonard Seaman my Sons & Thomas Willits my Son in law and John Williams my brother in law or either of them that shall Quallify to make a Settlement with any persons appointed by the said William Seaman Desseased for that purpose and Richard Willits respecting said lands and to give and receive such writings as may be proper for the same all which lands after such settlement hath been made that doth belong to my estate I do also order and direct my Executors to sell and the money arising thereby to be applied to the same purposses and divided in the same manner amongst my legatees above named as abovesaid and for the performance and Execution of this my Will I do give unto my said Executors and to each and every of them that shall quallify and take the trust upon them full power and Authority to Sell my said lands and give a good title to the purchaser thereof and to do all things relating to the Execution of this my Will and also a discretionary power to adjust and Settle all contests and disputes which may arise respecting my estate or any part thereof in such manner as they shall judge proper for the advantage thereof ~

                                                                                                                                                Zebn. Williams                                   (seal)

Signed Sealed published and declared by him the said Zebulun Williams as and for his last Will and Testament in the presence of us who have Subscribed our names as Witnesses in the presence of the Testator —

Jacob Willits

Noah Seaman

Thomas Williams

 

Whereas Since my making my within Will I have conceived that my Sons Zebulun Seaman and John Willms Seaman will have more than their proportion of my estate I have therefore added this as a Codicil to my within Will that is to say that my Son Leonard Seaman shall have two hundred Pounds more than my sons Zebulun and John instead of the one hundred pounds given him in the Will and I likewise give and bequeath unto my Wife Phebe Seaman one bed and furniture and six Silver Spoons more than is given her in the Will I have therefore published the above as a Codicil to be annexed to my Will aforesaid this thirteenth day of March Anno Domini one thousand seven hundred and eighty two.—

                                                                                                                                                Zebulun Williams                            (seal)

Jacob Willits

Thomas Williams

Noah Seaman

 

Probated on 17 Mar. 1784, both the Will and the Codicil and proved by Jacob Willitts of Oyster Bay, yeoman, and Thomas Williams of Hempstead, Yeoman, both of Queens County. Letters of Administration were granted to John Williams Seaman, Leonard Seaman, Thomas Willitts and John Williams, the Executors, on 10 May 1784.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from New York County Probate, Vol. 36, p. 557-560, copied from original Liber 36, p. 461-464.

 

 

Will of Bartlett Sears of Plymouth, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1805) *

                                In the name of God Amen. I Bartlett Sears of Plymouth and Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Mariner, being sensible of the certainty of Death and uncertainty of the time of it, being desirous of making a disposition of the Estate that I am possessed of, do make this my last Will & Testament in manner following viz

                                First and principally I resign my soul to God who gave it hoping through the merits of Jesus Christ for eternal salvation and my body to the dust to be decently buried according to the discretion of my Executrix hereafter named.

Imprimis.               I give to my Brother Thomas Sears all my Wearing Apparel.

Item.                      I give to my Sister ___ a handsome suit of Mourning cloths

Item.                      I give to my Beloved wife Bathsheba Sears all the remainder & residue of my Estate whatsoever, wheresoever it may be found to her and her heirs forever, she being careful to discharge the above legacies immediately after my decease.

Lastly.                    I hereby appoint my said wife Bathsheba Sears Executrix of this my last Will and Testament.

                                In Testimony of all which I have hereunto set my hand and seal at Plymouth December 13th Anno Domini 1805.

Signd, Seald, & Delivered & Declared

by the said Bartlett Sears to

be his last Will and Testament

in presence of us                                                                                                                  Bartlett Sears                                    (seal)

Ephraim Spooner

Eliza Spooner

Sally Spooner

 

Presented for probate on 20 Aug. 1821 by Bathsheba Sears, the Executrix therein named, and proved by Sally Spooner, one of the witnesses thereto subscribed, Ephraim Spooner Esqr. and Eliza Spooner being now deceased. Letters of Administration were granted to Bathsheba Sears, the before named Executrix.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

Bathsheba Sears, the widow of Bartlett Sears, late of Plymouth, Mariner, petitioned that her dower may be assigned her in certain real estate purchased by the Testator after the Execution of his last will and Testament, which was granted on 15 July 1822.

 

Nathan Hayward Esquire, Thomas Paty, Merchant, and Charles Whiting, yeoman, all of Plymouth and all Freeholders, were appointed to set off one third part of all the Real Estate of Bartlett Sears, late of Plymouth, mariner, that he purchased after the Execution of his last will and testament to his widow Bathsheba Sears as her dower in said real estate, on 1 Oct. 1822. The division was dated 30 Oct. 1822, and approved on 18 Nov. 1822.

 

* Trasnscribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 53, p. 543-544, from FHL microfilm #0550907, and Vol. 56, pp. 131, 274-276.

 

 

Will of Holmes Sears of Halifax, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1834) *

        In the name of God, Amen.  I Holmes Sears of Halifax in the County of Plymouth and Commonwealth of Massachusetts, being of sound and perfect mind and memory, considering the uncertainty of this mortal life, make and ordain this my last Will and Testament, that is to say, first of all I give and recommend my Soul to God, who gave it, hoping through the merits of his Son Jesus Christ for eternal life, ~ my body I commit to the earth to be decently buried at the discretion of my Executor ~ And with respect to my worldly estate which God has blessed me with, in this life, I give and dispose and demise in the manner following, that is to say, all my debts, of which there are but few and none of magnitude, are to be punctually and speedily paid –

  1st  I give and bequeath to my dearly beloved wife, Mercy Sears, one fifth part of the produce of my improved land, to be paid annually by my Executor, and also fire wood sufficient for one fire annually, to be cut and drawn from my wood land, and cut up at the door by my said Executor, and also the use of one Cow, to be kept summer and winter by my said Executor, during her natural life – and also the use of my household furniture during her life – excepting one bed and bedding herein after to be disposed of ~

  2d – I give and bequeath to my dearly beloved son, Ward Sears the sum of two hundred dollars, to be paid by my Executor two years from my decease.

  3d  I give and bequeath to my dearly beloved daughter Lucinda Johnson one bed and bedding at my decease, – also fifty dollars to be paid to her by my Executor at the decease of my wife.

  4th – I give and bequeath to my Grand-son William Holmes Sears, fifteen acres of wood-land on the Easterly end of my lot of land on the Neck, so called.

  5th  I give and bequeath to my Grand-son Henry Ward Sears all of that lot of Cedar swamp that I own in Turkey swamp, so called, said lot is undivided betwixt me and Zebedee Chandler.

  Lastly – I give and bequeath to my son William Sears all the remainder of my real estate and personal, of whatsoever name or nature, after the payment of my just debts and funeral charges and legacies above named – and I do hereby constitute and appoint my said son William Sears sole Executor of this my last Will and Testament – revoking all former Wills by me made.

                In Testimony Whereof, I, the said Holmes Sears have hereunto set my hand and seal this twenty second day of September in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and thirty four.

                                                                                                                                                Holmes Sears                                    (seal)

        Signed, sealed, published and declared by the above named Holmes Sears to be his last Will and Testament in the presence of us, who in his presence and at his request, have hereunto subscribed our names as witnesses. ~~

        Dexter C. Thompson

        Jabez Soule

        Susanna Soule

 

Presented for probate on 16 Jan. 1837 by William Sears, the Executor therein named, and proved by Dexter C. Thompson and Jabez Soule, two of the witnesses. Letters Testamentary were granted to William Sears, the Executor therein named.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 79, p. 10-11, from FHL microfilm #0555265.

 

 

Will of Judah Sears of Rochester, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1773) *

I Judah Sears of Rochester in the County of Plymouth Yeoman being Advanced in years But thro’ Gods Goodness of sound Mind & Disposing of my Estate & Calling to Mind the Uncertainty of this Life do make & Ordain this my Last Will & Testament Recommending my Soul to the Mercifull hands of God that Gave it & my Body to be Buried in Decent Christian manner after my Decease at the Discretion of my Executor hereafter mentioned, and as to Such Worldly Estate wherewith it hath Pleased God to Bless me with in this World I Give & Dispose of the Same In Manner & Form Following.

Imprimis I Give & Bequeath to my Beloved Wife Mary the Use and Improvement of One third Part of my Real Estate During her Natural Life Also I Give to my Said Wife All Indoor & Outdoor Moveables my Farming Tools & a Good Feather Bed & Furnature Excepted during her Natural Life ~

Item I Give & Bequeath to my son Judah Sears to his Heirs and Assigns forever the One half Part of my Real Estate Whatsoever or Wheresoever the Same is or may be found his Mothers Right Excepted as Above ~

Item I Give & Bequeath to my son David Sears to him his Heirs & Assigns forever the Other half Part of my Real Estate Whatsoever or Wheresoever the Same is or May be found his Mothers Right Excepted as Above & in Case my Dwelling House Shall Want Repairs while my Said Wife Lives it is my Will & I Order my Said Sons Judah & David at their Cost in Equal Parts to keep my Said Wifes Part of said House in Good Repair ~

Item I Give to my Son Alden Sears Six Pounds Thirteen Shillings & four Pence Lawfull Money to be paid him in Equal Parts by my sons Judah & David in two Years After my Decease ~

Item I Give to my son Nathan Sears Six Pounds Thirteen Shillings & four Pence Lawfull Money to be paid him in Equal Parts by my sons Judah & David in Two Years after my Decease ~

Item I Give to my son Richard Sears Six Pounds Thirteen Shillings & four Pence Lawfull Money to be paid by my sd. Sons Judah & David in Equal Parts in Two Years after my Decease ~

Item I Give to my Daughter Ann Gage the Wife of Anthony Gage One Shilling to be paid her by Sons Judah & David in two Years after my Decease –

Item I Give to my Daughter Mary Hatch the Wife of Jonathan Hatch One Shilling to be paid by my Sons Judah & David in Two Years after my Decease ~

Item I Give to my Daughter Alice Church the Wife of Charles Church One Shilling to be paid her by my Said Sons Judah & David in Two Years after my Decease ~

Item I Give to my Daughter Sarah Sears One Good Feather Bed & Furnature it being the Same Bed & funature that I have Reserved in the former Part of this my Will Also I Give to my Said Daughter Sarah five Pounds Lawfull Money to be paid her by my Said Sons Judah & David in Equal halfs in One Year after my Decease or on the Day of her Marriage Also I Give my said Daughter Sarah Liberty to live in my Dwelling House so long as She Lives Single ~

Item I Give to my said Sons in Equal Parts to Judah & David to be Equally Divided between them all my Farming Tools & all my Indoor & our Door Moveables after my Said Wifes Death with the Exception before mentioned also I Give the Said Judah & David to be Equally Divided between them the Debts Due to me & All other my Estate Real & Personal that I have not herein Disposed of Also I hereby Order my Said Sons Judah & David Equally between them to pay my Just Debts & funeral Charges furthermore I Do Constitute & Appoint my sd. Son Judah Sears to be Sole Executor to this my Last Will & Testament In Witness whereof I have here unto Set my hand & Seal this fifth Day of February A.D. 1773.

Signed Sealed Published &

Pronounced to be the Last Will

& Testament of the Said Judah Sears

In Presence of us ~~                                                                                                            Judah Sears                                       (seal)

        Nathan Nye Junr.

        Charles Sturtevant

        Wm. Nye

        Nathll. Ruggles Junr.

        Nathl. Ruggles

 

Presented for probate on 2 Sept. 1776 by Judah Sears, the Executor therein named, and proved by William Nye and Nathll. Ruggles Junr., two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration Cum Testamento annexo were granted to David Sears.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Judah Sears, late of Rochester, was appraised on 2 Nov. 1776 by John Doty, Ebenezar Barker Junr. and Phillip Turner, and totaled £399.15.0, including his real estate valued at £320. David Sears, the Administrator Cum Testamento Annexo gave his oath to the inventory on 2 Sept. 1776.

 

David Sears, of Rochester, State of Massachusetts, Yeoman, was granted administration of the estate of Judah Sears, late of Rochester, Yeoman, on 2 Sept. 1776, with John Doty and Jonathan Church, both of Rochester, as sureties.

 

To David Peckham of Rochester in the county aforesaid yeoman, Greeting

Whereas Judah Sears Late of said Rochester yeoman deced on the Fifth day of February Anno Domini 1773 made his Last will & testament in writing, and signed, sealed and delivered the same before sufficient witnesses, which will was duly proved & approved, and after Gifts & Legacies then made he Appointed his son Judah Sears Sole Executor of the same will, but he Refusing the Executorship, Administration cum testament annexo was therefore committed unto him the said Judah [sic] Sears, who died before he had completed his said Administration—and whereas the power of committing administration & full disposition of all and singular the Goods, Chattells, Rights and Credits of the said deced remains still to be administered upon & to be done & finished and also the hearing, examining & allowing the account of such admon doth appertain unto me—Trusting therefore in your care & fidelity I do by these presents commit unto you full power to administer all and singular the Remaining Goods Chattells Rights and Credits of the said deced Judah Sears first mentioned, and well and faithfully to dispose of the same according to Law and the direction of the said will, and also to ask, Gather, Levy, Record & Recieve all & whatsoever Credits of the sd. deced, which to him while he Lived, and at the time of his decease did appertain, which are not paid and to pay all Remaining debts in which the sd. deced stood bound so far as his Goods, Chattells, Rights & Credits can extend according to the value thereof, & Record a plain & true account of your said administration upon Oath within twelve months next coming—and I do hereby ordain constitute & appoint you Administrator de bonis non, Cum testament annexo of all and singular, the Goods Chattells Rights & Credits aforesaid

                In testimony whereof I have hereunto Sett my hand and the Seal of the Court of Probate the Sixth day of May, Anno Domini 1782

                                                                                                                                                Jos. Cushing ~

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 24, p. 216-219, from FHL microfilm #0550713, Vol. 23, p. 122, and Vol. 27, p. 493-494.

 

 

Will of Nathaniel Sears Jr., of Rochester, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1811) *

  I Nathaniel Sears Junr. of Rochester in the County of Plymouth yeoman calling to mind the Mortality of Man & being of sound & disposing Mind & Memory do make this my last Will & Testament, & in the first place I give my Soul to God, who gave it, & my Body to the Earth to be buried in a decent christian Burial at the Discretion of my Executor herein after appointed & as to that portion of earthly Estate with which it has pleased God to bless me, I dispose of it in the following Manner & form.—

                Imprimis I give & bequeath to my four Sons, William, Jesse, Nathaniel & Joseph all my real Estate with all the Debts due to me, all my Monies, all my farming Utensils, live stock of all kinds & mechanical Tools, the same to be to them their Heirs & Assigns forever, they paying all my just Debts, funeral Charges, the Charges of settling my Estate, the Legacies herein after mentioned & doing & allowing whatsoever is by this Will directed for them to do & allow, & if either of them should die without Issue my Will is that the Share of such one, shall go to the survivors & my will further is that the three youngest of them be brought up to & learn some Trade respectively.—

                Item I give & bequeath to my beloved Wife Hannah the use & Improvement of one half of my Dwelling house on my homestead Farm during the time she remains my Widow for her to use & occupy for herself & my Daughters remaining in single Life, this I direct my said Sons to allow, & I further direct my said Sons, to find provide & allow to my said Wife a decent, comfortable, sufficient support, in all respects during her Widowhood, & if the Support & Maintainance, which they shall so find & provide for her shall at any time be not satisfactory to her, I direct that Referees mutually appointed by them shall determine what support & Maintainance they shall find provide & allow to her, I also give to her the Use & Improvement of all my household Furniture during the term of her Widowhood, & if my said Widow should marry again I give her the Use of my household Furniture during the Term of her natural Life –

                Item I give to my Daughter Hannah the Wife of Jonathan Tobey together with what I have already given her, so much more household Furniture, as to amount in the whole to one hundred Dollars, this to be paid by my said Sons.—

                Item. I give to my three Daughters Lucy, Clarissa & Susanna, a right to live in my Dwelling house with their Mother, while they respectively remain in single Life & their Mother remains my Widow, & if any of them remain in single Life after their Mother ceases to be my Widow, I order & direct my said Sons to allow them & each of them the same right & privilege during the time they may respectively remain in single Life, & I further order & direct my said Sons to pay to each of my said Daughters, the value of one hundred Dollars in household Furniture at the time of their respective Marriages, or when they shall arrive at the Age of eighteen Years, which shall first happen.–

these Legaises not to be paid to the Heirs of any one of them who may die under that Age & unmarried

I also give to the whole of my four Daughters my household Furniture after their Mother has done with the same excepting my Clock & best Looking Glass which I give to my said Sons.—

                Item I order my said Sons to pay to my two Granddaughters the Daughters of my Son Stephen deceased one hundred Dollars each in household Furniture when they arrive respectively at the Age of eighteen Years, or the time of their respective Marriages, which may first happen, but those Legacies are not to be paid to the Heirs of either of them, which may die under that age & unmarried.  And I do earnestly recommend it to my said Sons to grant & allow to the Widow of my said Son Stephen the same privileges, Advantages & Helps, which she has had from me, since the Death of her said Husband, and also to see that my two said Granddaughters are well brought up.— whatever Estate is not before disposed of, I give to my said Sons as aforesaid —

            I appoint my Son William Sears to be the Executor of this my last Will & Testament, & do disallow & revoke all other Wills made before this time & establish this as my last Will & Testament—

        In Testimony of all which I do hereto set my hand this twenty seventh day of November Anno Domini One thousand eight hundred & eleven —

Signed & declared by the said

Nathaniel Sears to be his last Will

& Testament in presence of us                                                                                          Nathaniel Sears Junr.

        Deborah Davis

        James Simmons

        Abrm Holmes

 

Presented for probate on 10 April 1816 by William Sears, the Executor therein named, and proved by Deborah Davis and James Simmons, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to William Sears, the before named Executor.

 

Charles J. Holmes Esqr., Peleg Whittridge Esqr. and Lemuel Winslow, Gentleman, all of Rochester, were appointed to appraise the Estate of Nathaniel Sears Junr., late of Rochester, Housewright, on 10 Apr. 1816. The Inventory of the Estate of Nathaniel Sears Jr., late of Rochester, Yeoman, not dated, totaled $6565.05, including his real estate valued at $5243. The appraisers gave their oath to the inventory on 18 Apr. 1816, and William Sears, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 10 May 1816.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 48, pp. 11-13, 63-65, from FHL microfilm #0550905.

 

 

Will of Nathaniel Sears of Rochester, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1816) *

  I Nathaniel Sears of Rochester in the County of Plymouth Housewright do this twenty ninth day of March in the Year of our Lord 1816 make this my last Will and Testament—

                First of all I give to my Wife Elizabeth the Improvement of one third of my Estate to for her to dispose of her wearing Apparel as she thinks fit.—

                viz I give to Son Nathaniel’s Heirs one Dollar.—

                viz I give to my Son Prince Sears’ Children a Farm that I own lying in the Town of Calais in the State of Vermont with all the Stock & Buildings that belong to it to be divided among them a Daughter to have one quarter as much as a Son.—

                viz All my household Furniture I give to my Daughter Susanna Keen besides what shall hereafter be mentioned fifteen Dollars worth of the Household Furniture —

                I give to my Daughter Elizabeth Bryant to be paid in Furniture or as my two Daughters can agree & it is my Will that the things that my Daughter Deborah Peirce carried away to keep house with should be equally divided among her Children ---

                To my Son Silas Sears I give one Dollar —

                To my Son John Sears out of the Household Furniture, I give him my Mahogany Desk, my best Looking Glass my round back great Chair & and four bannister back Chairs one Feather bed to the value of twenty Dollars and all the Remainder of my Estate I give to my Son John that is not given to others. —

                I appoint my Son John to be my Executor to this my last Will and Testament and I revoke all the Wills heretofore made by me and establish this my last, to which I have hereunto set my hand and Seal this first day of April in the Year of our Lord One thousand eight hundred & sixteen – Signed sealed in presence of us by Nathaniel Sears to be his last Will –

        William Sears                                                                                                               Nathaniel Sears                                (seal)

        Major Pool

        Nathaniel Sears

 

Presented for probate on 25 May 1816 by John Sears, the Executor therein named, and proved by William Sears and Major Pool, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to John Sears, the before named Executor.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

Jesse Martin Esqr., Abiel P. Robertson, and Charles Brightman, yeomen, all of Rochester, were appointed to set off to the widow Elizabeth Sears her dower in the real estate of Nathaniel Sears, late of Rochester, on 19 Feb. 1827. The division was dated 12 Apr. 1827, and approved on 2 May 1827.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 48, p. 75-76, from FHL microfilm #0550905, and Vol. 64, p. 4-6.

 

 

Will of Thomas Sears of Plymouth, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1755) *

        In the Name of God Amen I Thomas Sears of Plimouth in the County of Pilmouth in New England, Husbandman being under Low Circumstances as to my bodily Helth and Apprehending my Great change to be Drawing near, but Yet of a sound Dispossing Mind & Memory blessed be God for it, First I Do Give my Presious Soul to God hoping for Acceptance with him thro’ the Merritts of Jessus Christ, my body I committ to the Dust to be decently buried, at the Discretion of my Execr. hereafter named Hoping for a Resurrection to Eternall life and as to my Estate That God has Given me I Dispose of as Followeth after my Just Debts and Funerall charges are paid

First  I Give to my Dear & Loving Wife Mehitable Sears the use & improvement of one third part of my Real Estate During her life, Also One Third part of my Personall Estate, after my Just Debts and Funerall charges are paid, To Her & her heirs forever & Over & above the One Third part of my Personall Estate I Further Give to my said Wife the warming pan & one Small Iron pott

Secondly  I Give to my Two Loving Sons Thomas Sears & Williard Sears to them & their heirs & assigns forever in Equall halves or Proportion, the One half part of my Real Estate always Reserving the Improvemt. of One Third of the Estate hereby Given to my two Sons to my wife Dureing her naturall Life, also I Give to my said Two Sons all my wareing Apparel

Thirdly.  I Give to my Five Daughters vizt. Betty Sears, Rebecca Sears, Chloe Sears, Sarah Sears & Marcy Sears to them & their heirs & assigns forever in Equall part or Proportion, the Other half part of my Real Estate allways Reserving the Improvement of one third part of the Real Estate hereby Given to my said five Daughters to my wife During her Naturall life; and Further I Give to my Daughter Marcy Sears, My Silver Spoon marked as followeth P.S.M. And all the remainder of my personall Estate I Give as Followeth vizt. The One half part thereof to my said Two Sons Thos. & Williard & their heirs & the Other half part thereof to my said five Daughters Betty, Rebecca, Cloha, Sarah & Marcy & ther heirs, and further I do hereby Appoint my Trusty & well beloved Jeremiah Hows of Plymouth to be Sole Execr. of this my last Will & Testament, Hereby revoking all Other & Former Wills, I do publish & Declare this to be my Last Will & Testament as Witness my hand & Seal this Second Day of July 1755 in the Twenty Ninth Year of his Majesty’s reign

Signed, Sealed published, Pronounced                                                                           Thomas Sears                                   (seal)

& Declared to be his last Will &

Testament in presence of

Nathaniell Morton

Rebecca Morton

Thos. Foster

 

Presented for probate on 17 July 1755 by the Execr. therein named, and proved by Thos. Foster Esqr., Nathl. Morton, and Rebecca Morton, the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Jeremiah Hows of Plimo., the Sole Execr.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Thomas Sears, late of Plimouth, was appraised by John Torrey, John Finney and Silvanus Bartlett on 14 Aug. 1755, and totaled £145.4.3½, including his homestead with his house and 30 acres of land valued at £106.13.4. Jeremiah Hows, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 16 Dec. 1755.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 13, p. 507-508, from FHL microfilm #0551540, and Vol. 14, p. 16-17, from FHL microfilm #0551542.

 

 

Will of Nicholas Sever of Kingston, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1762) *

                                                                In the name of God Amen.

I Nicholas Sever of Kingston in the county of Plymouth Esq: being of a sound mind & memory but apprehensive of human frailties and the uncertainty of the life Man. do make & ordain this my last will & Testat. first of all I commit my Soul into the hands of Almighty God thro: Jesus Christ the Redeemer of Mankind & then my Body to the Earth to be decently buried at the discression of my Executor hereafternamed & My worldly Estate which God has blessed me with I give & devise in manner following viz. I give to my well beloved wife Susannah one hundred & thirty three pounds six shillings & eight pence lawfull money one moiety thereof to be paid soon after my decease & the other moiety twelve months after. ~

Item. I give to Mrs. Baxter one Johannes & to Mrs. Dorothy one Johannes

Item. I give to my Grandchildren William, Sarah, & James Sever, to each of them one Johannes. —

Item. I give to my only Son William Sever Esqr: the remainder of my Estate both real & personal to him & his heirs forever whom I also make & ordain sole Executor of this my last will & Testament. In witness whereof I have hereunto sett my hand & Seal. Dated at Kingston Aprill 26, 1762.

Signd. seald. & declard. as my last will &                                                                        Nicholas Sever                 (seal)

Testament.            Wrestling Brewster Junr.

                                Lemuel Holmes

                                Joshua Ransom

 

Presented for probate on 24 Apr. 1764 by William Sever Esq., the Executor therein named, and proved by Josha. Ransom and Wrestling Brewster Jun., two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Wm. Sever Esq., the Executor, with James Warren, of Plymouth, Esq., as surety.

 

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 19, p. 34-35, from FHL microfilm #0550711.

 

 

Will of Jane Eliza Shapley of Binghamton, Broome County, New York (1896) *

I, Jane Eliza Shapley of the City of Binghamton, Broome Co. N.Y. being of sound mind and memory, do make, ordain, publish and declare this to be my last Will and Testament, that is to say:

        First. ~ After all my lawful debts are paid and discharged, and sufficient money used to purchase a footstone the same pattern of those in the ground, I, Jane Eliza Shapley give devise and bequeath to Mary Ann Dugan provided she stays with me while I live or her sickness prevents $500.00 Five Hundred Dollars, My gold watch I give to Mary A. Dugan. My black & white woolen shawl I give to Mary A. Dugan.

                I give devise and bequeath $300.00 Three Hundred Dollars to the Old Ladies Home of the City of Binghamton.

                I, Jane E. Shapley give devise and bequeath the remainder of my Life Insurance with all the Interest also my House & Lot to be equally divided between my two sons James Edward Shapley and William Martin Shapley.

                I give devise and bequeath to William M. Shapley the following items, Tan coloured embroidered chair Large Red Rocker the large Old Gold Rocker, Piano and spread, silk Bed quilt two best & two common Dresser spreads two Hair Pillows, Half of my large and half of my small framed Pictures, Two small ones that Charley gave me hanging in my room, Half Doz. solid silver spoons marked T~ Half Doz. marked C.B. Half Doz. best plated spoons. Half Doz Table spoons Half of the eighteen Forks, three common ones and Half Doz. marked T~ with the case containing them Half Doz large knives, half Doz Tea Knives, Half Doz white Handle Knives. One silver Card Receiver Berry Dish, two silver Salts, Silver & Glass Sugar Bowl Glas Pitcher one Glass standard preserve dish, one flat glass dish one Silver Berry spoon, and silver candle Sticks. Cake Knife, The two cut glass Bottles in my room I give to William M. Shapley, Two walnut Stands one marble Top belong to him, with hat Rack, Half of the China Breakfast Dinner and Tea set to William Shapley and half doz Oyster Plates

                I give devise and bequeath to James Edward Shapley now used in Bay window room all the Black Walnut set Bedstead Dresser wash stand two chairs and easy chair, two Tables one Marble Top belonging with the set the other Black Walnut, Half of the China Breakfast Dinner, Tea, Oyster, Plates one small & one large Platter one vegetable Dish and Butter Plates. All the remaining silver including two Teapots one Coffee Pot Sugar Bowl Slop Bowl Milk Pitcher Spoon Holder Sardine Fork Sugar spoon Pickle Fork and Castor, Butter Dish, Water Pitcher & Goblets one Card receiver, & Salver Half of the Knives large and small, half of the Forks Teaspoons & Table spoons, Half of the large and half of the small ones also half of my large & small framed pictures Fathers Picture, and Lucius Picture with Gold headed Cane. All the remainder of glass ware and crockery Dining room furniture and house hold articles with Kitchen and Pantry articles.

                Half of the articles following equally divided, i-e-Sheets Pillow Cases Table Cloths, Napkins, Towels Pillow shams white spreads quilts &c.  All household ornaments equally divided to suit each other, Carpets divided between my boys as they please, also dispose of the beds to suit themselves. Parts of things have already been given William Shapley the remainder are to go to him. My Gold Glasses with Chain which was a gift from Charlie I give to Will M. Shapley W W Shapleys Glasses I give to J. E. Shapley

                All the little keepsakes given me by J. E. Shapley and wife I wish given back to them. All given by Wm M Shapley & wife given back to them.

                The Bedroom set in my room I give to Ida Lawyer consisting Dresser Bedstead & Wash Stand also the Shawl she made for me Do with the Couch and Bureau what you please  The Picture of my mothers house I wish Ed to keep. My worsted Afgan I give to Mary A. Dugan. The Oak Bedroom set Will M. S. has given to Mary A. Dugan –

        (My personal disposal to my friends.)

        My large Testament with Psalms, I give to William M. Shapley  My Black Satin Banner with Pond Lillies I give to Will & Mary Shapley My best Black Shawl I give to Mrs Jennette Stowe.

        Painted China Plate, Pitcher, with Gold Thimble I give to Kate A. Prickard

        To Sophie Van Horzon her mothers Gold Pen found in my writing Desk the little Flower vase and Red Vinegar Bottle which she gave me. I give to Mary John Shapley, My Cloak my best Polenaise & skirt my Black Dress with plaited silk front, farmers satin Petticoat (if I do not live to wear them out) my best undershirt (only one to lay me out in) Four Shimers, Black beaded wrap, best black Nuns Vail (in the draw) Six corset covers, night Dresses & six best Handkerchiefs. Fannie Fales two Painted Jugs, Smoked Pearl Cuff Buttons & long Pin to match, steel comb & Black Bracelets. To Mrs Jennette Stowe my second Polenaise with Nuns vailing skirt, wrapper with Polka dots. All my under wrappers & drawers, stockings Boots Gloves and remainder of Handkerchiefs.

                Likewise, I make, constitute and appoint James Edward Shapley & William Martin Shapley to be executors of this my last Will and Testament, hereby revoking all former Wills by me made.

                In Witness Whereof, I have hereunto subscribed my name and affixed my seal, the twelfth day of May in the year one thousand eight hundred and ninety six.

                                                                                                                                                Jane Eliza Shapley                          (seal)

                The above instrument, consisting of 2 sheets was at the date thereof subscribed by Jane E. Shapley in the presence of us and each of us: she at the time of making such subscription acknowledged that she made the same, and declared the said instrument so subscribed by her to be her last Will and Testament. Whereupon we then and there, at her request, and in our presence and the presence of each other, subscribed our names as witnesses thereto.

                                Julius E. Rogers                   residing at Binghamton NY.

                                Homer B. Boss                     residing at Binghamton N.Y.

 

Proved by Julius E. Rogers and Homer B. Boss both of the City of Binghamton on 9 Mar. 1897, who testified that Jane E. Shapley was aged 80 years or thereabouts when she made her will. James E. Shapley and William M. Shapley, the executors and only heirs of the deceased were granted Letters Testamentary on 9 Mar. 1897.

 

* Transcribed by Broome County Probate Wills Vol. 25, p. 481-485, from FHL microfilm #0808985.

 

 

Will of Ambros Shaw of Rochester, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1817) *

In the Name of God Amen, I Ambros Shaw of Rochester in the County of Plymouth & Commonwealth of Massachusetts being of a sound Mind & Memory – blessed be almighty God for the same do make & publish this my last Will & Testament in Manner & form following –

        1st. I give & bequeath to my beloved Wife Abigail Shaw the use & Improvement of one third part of all my Estate both real & personal during her Natural Life —

        2d. I give and bequeath to my Son Isaiah Shaw seventy Dollars to be paid in one year after my decease–

        3d. I give & bequeath to my Son Ezra Shaw one Dollar to be paid in one Year after my decease –

        4th. I give & bequeath unto my Daughter Abigail Pope thirty Dollars to be paid in one year after my decease–

        5. I give & bequeath to my Daughter Rebecca Pope thirty Dollars to be paid in one Year after my decease–

        6th. I give & bequeath to my Daughter Hannah Shaw seventy Dollars to be paid in one year after my decease–

        7th. I give & bequeath to my three Daughters, Abigail Pope Rebecca Pope & Hannah Shaw all my household Furniture of every kind & nature to be equally divided between them & also my Wife’s wearing Apparel–

        8th. I give & bequeath to my four Sons Levi Shaw, Ezra Shaw, Isaiah Shaw & Lewis Shaw all my wearing Apparel to be equally divided between them —

        9th. I give and bequeath to my Son Lewis Shaw all the rest, residue & remainder of my personal Estate, goods and Chattels of whatever kind or nature soever, he paying all my just Debts & funeral Charges –

        10th. I do constitute & appoint my Sons Levi Shaw & Lewis Shaw to be sole Executors of this my last will & Testament hereby revoking all former Wills by me made—

        In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand & seal this eighteenth day of November in the Year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred & seventeen —

Signed sealed published & declared by the above

named Ambros Shaw to be his last Will and

Testament, in presence of us, who at his request &

in his presence have hereunto subscribed our                                                                Ambros Shaw                                    (seal)

Names as witnesses to the same.—

                Caleb Briggs

                Delia Briggs

                Elijah Briggs –

 

The Instrument purporting to be the last Will & Testament of Ambros Shaw late of Middleborough Yeoman was presented for probate on 17 May 1819 by Levi Shaw and Lewis Shaw, the Executors therein named, and proved by Caleb Briggs Esqr. and Delia Briggs, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Levi Shaw and Lewis Shaw, the before named Executors.

 

Caleb Briggs Esqr., John Bennet Gentleman and Joshua Peirce yeoman, all of Rochester, were appointed to appraise the Estate of Ambrose Shaw, late of Rochester, yeoman, on 17 May 1819. The Inventory of the Estate of Ambrose Shaw, late of Rochester, dated 26 June 1819, totaled $384.59, including some livestock, but no real estate. Levi Shaw and Lewis Shaw, the Executors, gave their oath to the inventory on 4 Nov. 1819.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 50, pp. 210-211, 405-407, from FHL microfilm #0550906.

 

 

Will of David Shaw of Middleborough, Plymouth County, Massachusetts Bay (1782) *

In the Name of God Amen. This third day of May Anno Domini 1782, I David Shaw of Middleborough, in ye. county of Plymouth, yeoman, being advanced in years, but of perfect mind & memory, thanks be given to God therefor, calling unto mind ye. mortality of my body & knowing that it is appointed for all men once to die, do make & ordain this my last will & testament, that is to say, principally & first of all, I give & recommend my soul into ye. hands of God, that gave it, and my body I recommend to ye. earth, to be buried in a decent christian burial, at ye discretion of my Executor, nothing doubting but at ye. general resurrection, I shall recieve ye. same again by ye almighty power of God, and as touching such worldly estate, wherewith it hath pleased God to bless me in this life, I do give, demise & dispose of ye. same in the following manner & form vizt

Imprimis. I Give and bequeath to Abigail, my well beloved wife, the one third part of all my improvement of, & profits of my real estate with a privilege of two Cows, and the use of all my indoor moveables, during her natural life, and her fire wood brought to the Door & cut fit for the fire

2ly– I Give & bequeath to William Drake & to his heirs forever, the whole of my estate both real & personal, his paying all my just debts & funeral charges for me & my wife abovesaid, and I do hereby appoint the abovesaid William Drake sole Executor of this my last will & testament. And I do hereby, utterly disallow, revoke & disannull, all & every former testament, will, legacies & bequests & Executors by me in any wise, before named, willed & bequeathed, ratifying and confirming this & no other, to be my last will & testament. In Witness whereof, I have hereunto Set my hand & Seal ye. day & year above written

Signed, Sealed, Published Pronounced                                                                           David Shaw                                       (seal)

& declared by ye. sd. David Shaw as his last

Will & testament in presence of us

                Edmund Hall

                Joshua White

                Daniel White

 

Presented for probate on 9 Aug. 1797 by William Drake, the Executor therein named, and proved by Joshua White Esqr. and Daniel White, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to William Drake, yeoman, the before named Executor, with Joshua White Esqr. and Daniel White, yeoman, all of Middleborough, as sureties.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 36, p. 207-208, from FHL microfilm #0550719.

 

 

Will of Ebenezar Shaw of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1775) *

In the Name of God Amen the 19th Day of September 1775 I Ebenezar Shaw of Bridgwater in the County of Plymouth In New-England Husbandman being Now of a Disposeing Mind & Memory Yet Calling to Mind the Mortality of my Body & knowing that it is Appointed unto All Men Once to Die do make and Ordain this my Last Will & Testament i.e. Principally and first of all I Recommend my Soul into the hands of God that Gave it, & my Body I Recommend to the Earth to be Buried with Christian Decent Burial at the Discretion of my Executor hereafter Mentioned & as Touching Such Worldly Estate wherewith it hath Pleased God to Bless me in this Life I Give & Dispose of the Same in the following Manner & Form ~~

1st Tis my Will that all My Debts & Funeral Charges be Well & Truly Paid in Convenient Time after my Decease ~

2dly I Give & Bequeath to my Well Beloved Wife Mary Shaw all my Indoor Household Stuff to be her’s forever with One Third Part of the Improvement of all My Buildings & of my Farm during her Widow hood ~

3dly I Give & Bequeath to my Well Beloved Son Ebenezar Shaw all my Lands with all my Buildings & all the Utinsills upon my Farm & all my Live Stock to be his Forever, Allowing his Sister the Priviledge of Liveing in the House While Unmarried ~

4thly I Give & Bequeath to my Well beloved Daughters Mary Deborah, Huldah, Betty, Mehitable Shaw Thirteen Pounds Six Shillings & Eight pence to Each of them this Sum to be paid in Money or Household Goods within a year after my Decease ~

5thly I Give and Bequeath to my Well beloved Daughter Abigail Harris five Shillings & no More having Given her What I Designed for her Already ~

6thly I Give & Bequeath to my Well beloved Daughter Susannah Snell five Shillings & No more haveing Given her what I Designed for her Already ~

7thly I Constitute & Appoint my Well beloved Son Ebenezar Shaw Sole Executor of this my Last Will & Testament to pay all my Debts & the Legacies in this Will Specifyed I make & Ordain this to be my Last Will & Testament In Witness whereof, I have hereunto Set my hand & Seal the Day & year above written i.e. Septr. 19th Anno Domini 1775 ~

Signed Sealed Published Pronounced & Declared

by me Ebenezar Shaw As my Last Will & Testament                                                 Ebenezar Shaw                                 (seal)

In Presence of us ~              Isaac Allen

                                                Joshua Barrell

                                                Isaac Allen Junr.

 

Presented for probate on 3 June 1776 by Ebenezar Shaw, the Executor therein named, and proved by Isaac Allen and Isaac Allen Junr., two of the Witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters Testamentary were granted to Ebenezar Shaw, the before named Executor, on 3 June 1776, with Isaac Allen and Isaac Allen Junr., all of Bridgewater, as sureties.

No inventory of his estate was filed.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 24, p. 131-132, from FHL microfilm #0550713.

 

 

Will of Esther Shaw of Plymouth, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1845) *

                                In the name of God. – Amen.

        I Esther Shaw of Plymouth in the County of Plymouth widow do make and publish this my last Will and testament in manner and form following, that is to say.

  First I direct that all my just debts be paid as soon as possible after my decease.

                Secondly, I direct my Executor to sell and convert into money at such time and in such manner as he may deem necessary or expedient all the estate real and personal of which I may die seized except as hereafter provided.

                Having already made provision which I consider equivolent to six hundred dollars, for my brother Ellis Holmes in the sale of a mortgage which I had upon the homestead place on which he lives to Capt. Henry Whiting, I hereby give him a further sum of two hundred dollars.

                I give and bequeath to my nephew William M. Holmes, son of my brother Samuel Holmes the sum of two hundred dollars.

                I give and bequeath to my nephews John H. Bradford, Thomas Spooner Horatio N. Spooner Ichabod S. Holmes, Atwood Holmes, Allen Holmes, Ellis Holmes Junior, and Kendall Holmes, and to my nieces Sally Bradford, Betsey Holmes, Widow Rebecca Burgess Deborah Holmes, Hannah Morton wife of Lemuel Morton, Mary Spooner wife of Ephraim Spooner Esther S. Bartlett wife of Amasa Bartlett Phebe Sylvester wife of Nathaniel Sylvester, Susan Holmes, Mehitable Holmes and Rebecca Doten wife of Samuel Doten, the sum of fifty dollars each.

                I give and bequeath to Rebecca H. Faunce widow of Nathaniel Faunce, Laura Turner wife of Capt. E. Stephens Turner, and Susan Hayward daughter of the late Beza Hayward Esq. the sum of thirty dollars each.

                I give and bequeath to Nancy Battles Caroline Goddard and Huldah Harlow, daughters of my nephew Ichabod Harlow deceased the sum of twenty dollars each.

                I give and bequeath to my nephew Davis Holmes the sum of fifty dollars.

                I give and bequeath to my nephews Ellis Holmes Junior and Ichabod Shaw Holmes and their heirs forever, a certain lot of woodland situated at Gravelly Hill so called known as the “Ten Acre lot” which fell to me in the distribution of the estate of my father the late Ichabod Holmes.

                I give and bequeath to Caroline Miller Spooner, Ellen Otis Spooner and Catharine Brimley Spooner, daughters of my late nephew William Spooner the sum of ten dollars each.

                I give and bequeath to Allen C. Spooner and Nathaniel Spooner sons of my late nephew Capt. Nathaniel Spooner Junior the sum of fifty dollars to be equally divided between them.

                I give and bequeath to Esther Shaw Spooner daughter of Ephraim and Mary Spooner the sum of fifty dollars.

                I give and bequeath to the Rev. James Kendall and the Rev. George W. Briggs, both of Plymouth the sum of thirty dollars, each.

                I give and bequeath to the First Congregational Society in Plymouth of which said James Kendall and George W. Briggs are associate pastors, the sum of one hundred dollars, to be held by said Parish in trust, and the income of the same, I direct shall be divided annually among such poor persons belonging to said Parish as the Standing Committee thereof, or any special Committee duly appointed for this purpose by said Parish, shall direct.

                Lastly, as to the rest and residue of my property my will is that the same together with any of the above legacies which may become lapsed by the death of any legatee, be equally divided among my nephews, John H. Bradford and William M. Holmes son of my deceased brother Samuel Holmes, and the surviving daughters of my deceased sisters Rebecca Bradford, Deborah Barnes and Mary Spooner or among such of said last mentioned nephews and nieces as may survive me.

                                And hereby revoking all former Wills I appoint my nephew Joseph Bradford sole Executor of this my last will and testament or in case of his decease my nephew Ellis Holmes Junior.

                In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this twenty first day of May A.D. eighteen hundred and forty five.

                                                                                                                                                Esther Shaw.                                     (seal)

        Signed, sealed, published and declared by the said Esther Shaw as and for her last will and testament in our presence, who at her request, in her presence, and in presence of each other have subscribed our names as Witnesses hereto.

                                                                                                                                                Nathl. M. Davis

                                                                                                                                                Wm. Davis

                                                                                                                                                Elizabeth Doten

 

Presented for probate on the third Monday of Jan. 1847 by Joseph Bradford, the Executor therein named, and proved by Nathaniel M. Davis and William Davis, two of the witnesses whose names are subscribed thereto. Letters Testamentary were granted to Joseph Bradford, the Executor therein named.

 

Joseph Bradford, of Plymouth, was appointed as Executor of the last Will and Testament of Esther Shaw, late of Plymouth, widow, on 18 Jan. 1847, with George Harlow and Lewis Perry, both of Plymouth, as sureties.

George Harlow, Silvanus Harlow and Samuel Sherman, all of Plymouth, were appointed to appraise the estate of Esther Shaw, late of Plymouth, on 7 Dec. 1846.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Esther Shaw, late of Plymouth, not dated, totaled $4966.00, including the wood lot valued at $100, and shares of stock in the Old Colony Rail Road, Plymouth Bank, and Market Bank of Boston, but no other real estate. Joseph Bradford, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on the third Monday of Feb. 1847.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 89, pp. 4-6, 65, from FHL microfilm #0555639, and Vol. 2H, p. 104.

 

 

Will of Ichabod Shaw of Plymouth, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1826) *

                According to a good old usage, and in concurrence with my right and my duty, I Ichabod Shaw of Plymouth in the County of Plymouth, commending my soul to a merciful Maker, do then dispose of my Estate at my decease.      I give to my wife, Esther, all my interest in the Ship Fortune, now on a whaling voyage, from this port, and the improvement of the rest of my Estate.

                I give to my Nephew, Ichabod Shaw Junr my undivided half of a shop and land on Leyden & Sea Street in said Plymouth, if owned by me at my decease: – And I direct that the rest of my Estate be distributed according to the present law or laws.

                In testimony of which I hereto set my name and seal this seventh day of March 1826.

                                                                                                                                                Ichabod Shaw                                   (seal)

                Signed and sealed

                        in presence of

                Z. Bartlett

                I. LeBaron

                Mercy Churchill

 

Presented for probate on the first Tuesday of Oct. 1837 by Esther Shaw, a Devisee therein named, and proved by Isaac LeBaron, one of the witnesses thereto subscribed, Z. Bartlett and Mercy Churchill being both now deceased.

 

Esther Shaw, of Plymouth, was granted administration with the Will annexed of the Estate of Ichabod Shaw, late of Plymouth, Yeoman, no person having been named in said Will as Executor thereof, on 3 Oct. 1837, with Southworth Shaw and Ichabod Shaw, both of Plymouth, as sureties.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Ichabod Shaw, late of Plymouth, was appraised on 4 Dec. 1837 by Nathl. M. Davis, Coomer Weston, and Ellis Holmes, his real estate totaled $3968, including his house and lot on Court Street valued at $2800, and an undivided half of a Blacksmith Shop on Water Street valued at $800, and his personal estate totaled $2755, plus a number of notes which were not totaled or included in the personal estate. Esther Shaw, the Administratrix with the Will annexed on the Estate of Ichabod Shaw, late of Plymouth, gave her oath to the inventory on 4 Dec. 1837.

 

                Whereas Ichabod Shaw late of Plymouth deceased by his last Will and Testament devised and bequeathed the use and improvement of his Real and Personal Estate to his wife Esther Shaw during her life, and the remainder thereof with the Exception of a devise of a Shop, to us the subscribers his heirs at law: now for divers good reasons and considering we do hereby release and relinquish to the said Esther all our right and claim upon the remainder and reversion of the furniture and household goods of which the said Ichabod died in possession for her the said Esther to hold, enjoy and dispose of at her Will and pleasure forever.

                Witness our hands this eighth day of March 1839

                                                                                                                                                Experience Hayward

                                                                                                                                                Lucy Lewis

                                                                                                                                                Southworth Shaw

                                                                                                                                                Benjamin Shurtleff

                                                                                                                                                Sally Shurtleff

                                                                                                                                                John Tillson

                                                                                                                                                Desire Tillson

 

Ichabod Shaw, of Plymouth, was granted administration de bonis non with the Will annexed of the Estate of Ichabod Shaw, late of Plymouth, on 7 Dec. 1846, Esther Shaw, who was appointed as Administrator with the Will annexed having deceased.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 79, pp. 434-435, 538-539, from FHL microfilm #0555265, Vol. 81, p. 211-212, and Vol. 10A, pp. 489, 553.

 

 

Will of James Shaw of Middleborough, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1800) *

In the Name of God Amen.— I James Shaw of Middleborough in the County of Plymouth & Comwealth of Massachusetts Gentleman, being weak of body yet of a sound mind & memory, blessed be God for the same, considering the mortality of the body, that it is appointed for all men once to die, do make & ordain this my last will and testament to be firm & inviolable, in manner following, that is to say ~

First—I Give and bequeath to my wife Lois, the use & improvement of one third part of all my real estate during her natural life as her right of dower therein, also, one half of all my indoor moveables & houshold furniture, and two Cows, all as her own property, & the use of a horse to ride when it is convenient.–

2d—I Give & bequeath to my son James Shaw, in addition to what he has already recieved out of my estate, Two Dollars –.

3d.– I Give & bequeath to my son Chipman Shaw in addition to what he has otherways recieved, the sum of one Hundred & thirty Dollars.~

4th– I Give & bequeath to my Daughter Chloe, the wife of James Shaw of Carver in sd County, the value of one Hundred Dollars in houshold furniture & specific articles of moveable estate at a reasonable value, which property shall be confined to her own particular use & benefit & under the particular care & direction of my son Joseph Shaw.–

5th– I Give & bequeath to my three sons –vizt– James, Joseph and Chipman, all my wearing apparell, to be equally divided between them.

6th.– I Give & bequeath to my son Joseph Shaw, all my real estate which I have not already by Deed disposed of, of every kind, excepting the improvement of that part thereof which is allowed to my said wife, which she is to improve during her natural life, to have & to hold the same, to him my said son Joseph, his heirs and assigns forever — I also give & bequeath to him my sd son Joseph, all my personal estate of every kind & my debts due, excepting what is herein otherways disposed of, he paying all the legacies herein mentioned & my just debts & funeral charges.– And I do constitute & appoint him my said son Joseph to be Executor to this my last will & testament. – Thus hoping that this my last Will & testament will be carefully kept & performed according to the true intent and meaning thereof – I commit my soul to the hands of God who gave it, and my body to the dust to a decent burial — In Testimony whereof I the said James Shaw have hereto set my hand & seal this 23d day of December, in the year of our Lord one thousand & Eight Hundred. –

Signed Sealed & Declared by the

said James Shaw, to be his last will                                                                                  James Shaw                                       (seal)

& testament in presence of us. ~

                Isaac Perkins ye 2d.

                Barnabas Perkins

                Nemiah Bennet

 

Presented for probate on 19 Feb. 1803 by Joseph Shaw, the Executor therein named, and proved by Isaac Perkins ye 2d. & Barnabas Perkins, two of the witnesses.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 38, p. 254-256, from FHL microfilm #0550720.

 

 

Will of James H. Shaw of Hamden, Delaware County, New York (1888) *

In the name of God Amen I James H Shaw of the town of Hamden Delaware County NY of the age of sixty years being of sound mind and memory do hereby make publish and declare this my last will and Testament in manner following viz:

First I give and bequeath unto my son Edwin L. Shaw Eight hundred dollars ($800)

Second. I give and bequeath to my son son Robert R Shaw fifteen hundred dollars $1500

Thirdly. I give and bequeath unto my daughter Anna Bragee Five hundred dollars $500

Fourthly. I give and bequeath to my son James A Shaw fifteen hundred dollars $1500

Fifthly I give and bequeath to my daughter Ida Shaw Six hundred dollars $600

Sixthly. I give and bequeath to my son Charles Shaw fifteen hundred dollars $1500

Seventhly. I hereby will to my wife Hannah Shaw the use or interest on two thousand dollars during her lifetime. After her death I will that the said two thousand dollars be equally divided between Robert R Shaw, James A Shaw & Charles Shaw each to share alike in same.  I do hereby revoke all former Wills made by me.  If there is more or less of my estate then the amounts named each shall have in proportion to the amounts willed to them and lastly I do hereby nominate and appoint William Bryce of the town of Hamden Executor of this my last Will and Testament

In Witness Whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this Sixth day of January 1888.

                                                                                                                                                James H. Shaw                                 (seal)

The above instrument consisting of one half sheet of legal cap paper was at the date thereof signed sealed published and declared by the said James H Shaw as his last Will and Testament in presence of us at his request and in his presence and in presence of each other have subscribed our names as witnesses thereunto

Charles E. Huebert }           Downsville Del Co

Alston W Huebert  }           as witnesses also to the interlining of seven hundred changed to

                                                read five also one thousand to read sixhundred

                Downsville Del Co N.Y.

 

Proved on 9 May 1889 by Charles E. Huebert of the Town of Colchester and Alston W Huebert of the Town of Colchester.

 

William Bryce was granted Letters Testamentary on the estate of James H Shaw, late of Hamden, on 27 May 1889.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Delaware County Probaste Wills Vol. M, p. 268, from FHL microfilm #0833513, and Letters Testamentary Vol. I, p. 314.

 

 

Will of Jonathan Shaw Sr., of Plympton, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1728) *

Know all Men by these Presents that I Jona Shaw Senr of Plympton in ye County of Plymo. in New-England— yeoman, Being at this present time in Health & of Sound & Disposing memory & understanding Blessed by God for it, Do make & ordayn this to be my Last will & Testament to remain firm & Inviolable forever

First: My will is that all my Just Debts & funeral Charges be payd out of my personal Estate by my Executor hereafter named;

Item. I Give Unto my Wife Mary Shaw the sum of ten pounds to be levied & raised out of my personal Estate & payd by my Execr. whensoever She Shall marry or Leave my Homestead which sd sum of ten pounds She Shall take up Satisfyed with for her whole Dowry, as may appear by agreement under her Hand & Seal before marriage to me. But So long as She remains my widow My will is yt She Shall have the third part of the Improvement of my personal Estate So far as may be for her own proper use & Benefit.

Item. I Give and Bequeath to my three sons (Viz.) Jonathan Shaw, James Shaw, & Samll. Shaw all my wearing apparell to be Equally Divided amongst them. I also Give to my three Sons above named all my Undivided Lands lying within ye Township of Plympton or Else where to be Equally Divided amongst them.

Item. I Give to my Son Jona. Shaw all that my third part of my meadow Laying at Pope’s point So Called within the Township of Plympton aforesd. Together with ye upland Joyning thereto, and my Will is that my Abovesd Son Jonathan Shaw Shall pay to my Execr. hereafter named, the full & Just Sum of twelve pounds in Lawful money of New-England at my Decease: and also my will is that my sd Son Jonathan possess & enjoy the one half of that Lot of Cedar Swamp which I bought of Mr Donham (He paying Part for ye Same, without any molestation from any Person or Persons whatsoever.

Item. I Give to my Daughter Phebe Shurtleff ye sum of twenty pounds.

Item. I Give to my Daughter Mehetabel Weston the Sum of twenty two pounds.

Item I Give to my Daughter Hannah Harlow—the Sum of twenty four pounds.

Item I Give to my Daughter Priscilla Bosworth the Sum of twenty Six pounds.

Item. I Give to my Grand Children, the Children of Joseph Lucas ye Sum of twenty one pounds to be equally Divided amongst ym.

Item. I Give to my two Grand Daughters (Viz.) Mary & Repentance Lucas, Children of Samll. Lucas the sum of thirty pounds—and my will is further that ye abovesd Legacyes be all payd unto the Partyes within named in Six year times after my Decease by my Executor.

Item I Give to my Daughter Rebekah ye Sum of fourty pounds to be payd unto her by my Execr. wn She Shall come at age

Item. I Give to my Son Samll. Shaw all that my Lot of Land Laying near the Herring Pond within ye Township of Plymo Consisting of one hundred fifty two acres, Together with all my personal Estate by him to be possessed & Enjoyed, and I also Constitute, make & ordayn my Sd Son Samll. Shaw to be my Sole Executor to this my last Will & Testament.

Thus Hoping that this my last Will & Testament will be kept & performed according to the true intent & meaning thereof, I Commit my Body to the Dust & my Soul to GOD that Gave it.

In witness whereof I have hereunto Set my Hand & Seal, this fourteenth Day of December and in ye year of our Lord, one thousand Seven hundred & twenty Eight 1728.

Memo. the words between the first & Second Lines of this page was interlined before the Ensealing of this will.

                                                                                                                                                Jonathan Shaw Senr       (seal)

Signed, Sealed & Declared by the sd Jonathan

Shaw Senr. to be his Last Will & Testament

In Presence of us the Subscribers  Samll Barrow

                                                Ebenezr Ransom.  Jno. Bell

 

Probated on 6 Mar. 1729/30, and proved by Samll Barrow, Ebenezer Ransom, & Jno. Bell.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Lieut. Jonathan Shaw of Plimton, was appraised by George Barrow, Ebenezer Ransom, and George Sampson junr. on 19 Mar. 1729/30, not totaled, but his Land & Meadow at Popes Neck was valued at £80.6.8, and his livestock was valued at £85.16.0. Samuel Shaw, the administrator on the Estate of his father Mr. Jonathan Shaw, late of Plimton, gave his oath to the inventory on 2 July 1730.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth Co. Probate Vol. 5, pp. 681-683, 740, from FHL microfilm #0550511.

 

 

Will of Jonathan Shaw of Middleborough, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1765) *

In the Name of God Amen – This first day of April 1765, I Jonathan Shaw of Middleborough in the County of Plymouth, yeoman being very Sick but of a sound and disposing mind & memory, thanks be Given to God therefor, wherefore calling to mind the mortality of my body knowing that it is appointed for all men once to dye Do make and ordain this my Last will and testament, that is to say principally and first of all I Give & Recommend my Soul into the hands of God that Gave it, and my body I Recommend to the Earth, to be buryed with Christian Decent burial nothing doubting at the General Resurrection I shall Recieve the same again by the mighty power of God, and as touching such worldly Estate wherewith it hath pleased God to bless me with I Give Demise & Dispose of the same in the following manner and form

Imprimis – I Give and bequeath unto my true & beloved wife Persus Shaw all my household Goods for her to use and improve as her own during the term of her natural Life, and also the best Cow I Give to my said wife which Cow I order my Son Thomas Shaw to keep for his mother winter & Summer without any Cost to her, and also four pounds Lawful money I Give to my said wife out of my Other moveable Estate which I order my sd. Son Thomas to pay to her in One year after my decease ~

Item – I Give and bequeath unto my Son Thomas Shaw all my husbandry tools & Live Stock (Except said Cow) and to his heirs forever after my Just Debts and funeral Charges being first paid out of the same

Item – I Give to my Son Constanant Shaw (if he be Living and Should Return home) Six pounds thirteen Shillings & four pence to be paid to him by my said Son Thomas immediately after the decease of my wife —furthermore my will is and I Do hereby appoint my sd Son Thomas Shaw the Sole Executor to this my Last will & Testament – In witness whereof I the sd Jonathan Shaw have hereunto Set my hand and Seal the day and year above written –

Signed Sealed, published pronounced and                                                                     Jonathan Shaw                                 (seal)

declared by the said Jonathan Shaw to be his

Last will and testament in presence of us the subscribers

Elkanah Shaw jr. – Joseph Tinkham – Azubah Cole

 

Presented for probate on 1 April 1782 by Mary Shaw of Middleborough, widow, the Executor therein named being deceased, and proved by Elkanah Shaw junr and Azubah Cole, two of the witnesses, the other witness, Joseph Tinkham, also being deceased. Letters of Administration Cum Testamento Annexo were granted to Mary Shaw.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Jonathan Shaw, late of Middleborough, was appraised on 1 May 1782 by Samuel Lucas, Francis Shurtleff and Elkanah Shaw, and totaled £102.1.6, including his homestead and buildings valued at £78.14, and a small piece of cedar swamp. Mary Shaw, the Admx. C.T. Annexo on the estate, gave her oath to the inventory on 6 May 1782.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 28, pp. 304-305, 390, from FHL microfilm #0550715.

 

 

Will of William Shaw of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1804) *

   In the Name of God amen on this eighteenth day of April in the Year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred & four, I William Shaw of Bridgwater in the County of Plymouth Commonwealth of Massachusetts yeoman being of advanced Age but of sound Mind & Memory thanks be to God therefor calling to Mind the Mortality of my Body knowing that it is appointed unto all men once to die do make & ordain this Instrument to be my last Will & Testament, namely, first of all I give & recommend my precious & immortal Soul into the hands of God who gave it & my mortal Body I resign to the Earth to be buried at the discretion of my Executor herein after named & respecting my worldly Estate, which God has been pleased to bestow upon me I give & bequeath to the following persons herein named in Manner & form herein mentioned namely—

        In the first place I order that all my just debts & funeral Charges be paid by my Executor named in this Will in convenient Time after my decease —

        2dly. I ordain for the Support & Maintenance of Mary my well beloved wife the following provision in the Lieu of her Dower of right of thirds in my Estate, namely I give & bequeath to her the Improvement of my South east room in my present Dwelling house & and My Cloathes room & Cupboard adjoining between that & the Middle room together with the east porch Bedroom & Buttery & Easterly half of the old Kitchen with the privilege of the oven & well when and so often as she pleases also the northerly part of the East Cellar, said Cellar to be pointed & well finished by my Executor, moreover the use of as much of the Chamber as she may need over sd. premises, & the use of the Stairs leading thereunto, also a third part of the Pew on the Ground floor of the north Meeting-house in Bridgewater also the privilege of riding to meeting & privilege of sowing some Garden seeds in the Garden reaping the Fruits thereof for her own use also the privilege of picking of picking apples out of the Orchard for her own use when she pleases & also when the said Mary shall be sick my Executor shall provide her with a good Nurse the assistance of a Physician or Surgeon as her Case may require, also annually eight Cords of Wood cut off fit for her Fire at her Door said wood to be good, all these things to be done & she to enjoy & possess so long as she continues to be my Widow & then to cease when she marries – But I order my Executor to supply & furnish my aforesaid Wife annually during her natural Life married or unmarried the following Articles Namely ten Bushels of Corn two Bushels & an half of Rye, fifty Pounds of of good Pork & the same weight of Beef & a proportion vigetable Sauce of a common Assortment, four Pounds of Sheep’s wool, twelve pounds of Flax & one Barrel of Cyder, Further more I give & bequeath to Mary my aforesaid Wife all & singular the Goods that she brought at her Marriage to furnish my house, also I order my Executor to supply my aforesaid Wife with one Good Cow to be well kept by him through the Year every Year during her being my widow & no longer —

        3dly. I give & bequeath unto my Son William Shaw the use & Improvement of thirty seven Acres of Land lying in the Town of Oxford in the County of Grafton in the State of New Hampshire, which I purchased of Doctor John Dime of the Town & County aforesaid during his natural Life & the use & improvement of the same after his decease to his present wife during her natural Life, provided she should remain his Widow the Fee thereof or right of Soil to the said thirty seven Acres with the privileges thereto appertaining I give & bequeath to my Grandson – Benjamin Shaw - Also I give & bequeath to my Son William his Choice first of a full Suit of my wearing apparel, I also order my Executor to deliver to him my said Son William all the obligations I have against him & discharge him of all demands I may have against him & of What Name or Nature soever providing, he shall at the same time relinquish all obligations & Demands of what name or Nature soever, he may have against my Estate, which with what he has already had & received, is his proportion of my Estate —

        4thly. I give to my Son Dan Shaw the second choice of a full suit of my wearing Apparel & all the demands I may have have against him, which with what he has already received is his proportion of my Estate —

        5thly. I give to my Son Naphthali Shaw the third Choice of a full Suit of my wearing Apparel & also sixty three Dollars in Cash to be paid by my Executor which with the Money I have expended upon him in a Liberal Education is his full propor- of my Estate —

        6thly. I give to my Daughter Hannah Packard the wife of Mark Packard one quarter of household Furniture & indoor moveables, which is not already bequeathed to my wife & also four Dollars to be paid by my Executor which with what she has already received is her full proportion of my Estate —

        7thly. I give to my Daughter Rhoda Kingman wife of Benjamin Kingman an equal part & Sum with her Sister Hannah Packard aforesaid which is her proportion of my Estate—

        8thly. I give to my Daughter Betty Shaw a quarter part of my aforesaid Furniture & Moveables & the Bed & Bedding, she has for some time past occupied in my house and one hundred Dollars in Cash to be paid by my Executor & also I give her the said Betty her choice of one of my cows & the Improvement of the Middle room front in my house so long as she remains in a single or unmarried State together with the other half of the old Kitchen & a common use of the Well on the same terms, which together with what I have already done for her is her full proportion of my Estate —

        9thly. I give to my Daughter Patience the Wife of Nathaniel Southworth the remaining part of household Furniture & indoor moveables being one fourth part thereof, provided the abovesaid Bed & Bedding was not given to Betty Shaw this together with what I advanced at her marriage is her proportion of my Estate —

        10thly. I give to my Daughter Abigail the Wife of Ziba Woods forty Dollars in Cash to be paid by my Executor, which together with the Money I have delivered & advanced at & since her Marriage & the Goods which did belong to her own Mother which I have delivered to her is her proportion of my Estate —

        11thly. I give to my Grandson Isaiah Shaw thirteen Acres of Land in the Town of Orford aforesaid being part of the Lot I gave to my Grandson Benjamin Shaw –

        12thly. I give to my Grandson Lemuel Packard the value of five acres of Land lying at the north west Corner of the farm which my Son William Shaw has of late improved to be paid him by my Executor —

        13thly. I give & bequeath to my Granddaughter Jennet Packard Anna Perkins Shaw, Experience Shaw, Molly Shaw & Parna Kingman eight Dollars to each of them to be paid by my Executor as they shall arrive at the Age of eighteen Years successively –

        14thly. I give & bequeath to my Son Micah Shaw, whom I constitute ordain & appoint my sole Executor of this my last will & Testament all my Estate both real & personal of what name or nature soever, which is not given away or bequeathed in this my last Will & Testament Which is sufficient to enable him to perform all the Conditions contained in this Instrument & is besides his full proportion of my Estate —

        In witness whereof I the said William Shaw do hereby ratify & confirm the same & hereunto set my hand & seal the day & year first mentioned – Signed sealed pronounced & published by the Testator in the hearing & presence of us the witnesses and witnessed in presence of each other—

                Edward Southworth                                                                                            William Shaw                                    (seal)

                Martin Southworth

                Peres Southworth

 

Presented for probate on 6 March 1809 by Micah Shaw, the Executor therein named, and proved by Martin Southworth and Peres Southworth, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Micah Shaw, the before named Executor.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 42, p. 501-503, from FHL microfilm #0550902.

 

 

Will of Zebedee Shaw of Middleborough, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1829) *

        To all people to whom these presents shall come Greeting: know ye that I Zebedee Shaw of Middleborough in the County of Plymouth and State of Massachusetts, Yeoman, considering the uncertainty of this mortal life and being of sound mind and memory, do make and publish this my last Will and Testament in manner and form as follows viz.

First. I give and bequeath to my sister Susannah Shaw so much of the income of my Estate as shall be sufficient for her maintainance during her lifetime. I do also give and bequeath to my nephew Zebulon Shaw all that part of my farm whereon I now dwell or reside which lies on the Northwesterly side of the road leading from assawamsett pond to Freetown. I also give and bequeath to Abraham Shaw son of my late Nephew Abraham Shaw, deceased, the remainder of my farm aforesaid which is a lot of land lying on the Southeasterly side of the road before mentioned and containing by estemation about twenty two acres, he paying to his sister Hannah Shaw daughter of said Abraham Shaw deceased, one hundred Dollars in one year after my decease, and also I give and bequeath to my said Nephew Zebulon Shaw and Abraham Shaw son of Abraham Shaw deceased, all the remainder of my Estate real and personal in manner as follows viz. To Zebulon Shaw two thirds of the same, and to Abraham Shaw one third they paying all my just debts and funeral Charges.— in the like proportion that is to say Zebulon to pay two thirds, and Abraham one third.  in testemony I have here unto set my hand & seal declaring this to be my last Will & Testament and revoking all former Wills by me heretofore made

                                                                                                                                                Zebedee Shaw                                   (seal)

Signed, sealed published and declared by the above named Zebedee Shaw to be his last Will and Testament in presence of us who hereunto set our names as Witnesses in presence of each other and of the Testator on this Seventh day of August one thousand eight hundred twenty nine AD. 1829

                Silas Briggs

                Pelatiah Briggs

                James F. Briggs

 

Presented for probate on the first Tuesday of November 1838 by Zebulon Shaw, therein named, and proved by Silas Briggs and James F Briggs, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed.

 

Zebulon Shaw, of Middleborough, petitioned for Administration of the Will of Zebedee Shaw, late of Middleborough, Yeoman, no person being named as Executor, on 6 Nov. 1838, and he was granted Administration with the Will annexed, with Silas Briggs and Nathaniel Sampson, both of Middleborough, as sureties, on 6 Nov. 1838.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Zebedee Shaw, late of Middleborough, yeoman, was appraised by Silas Briggs, Ezra McCully, and Eli Williams, but not dated, his real estate valued at $2366, and his personal estate valued at $227.08. Zebulon Shaw, Administrator with the Will annexed, gave his oath to the inventory on the last Tuesday of May 1839.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 80, p. 387-388, from FHL microfilm #0555265, Vol. 10A, p. 498, and Vol. 91, p. 265-266.

 

 

Will of Zephaniah Shaw of Middleborough, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1827) *

In the name of God, Amen, I Zephaniah Shaw of Middleborough in the County of Plymouth and Commonwealth of Massachusetts Yeoman, Infirm in bodily health, but of sound disposing mind and memory, and realizing that it is appointed unto all men once to die, do proceed to make my last Will & Testament; and publish the same in the following manner, First of all I commend my soul unto God who gave it through the merits and mediation of the glorious Redeemer; and my body to the dust whence it was taken, to be buried in a christian manner in the hope of a resurrection to a glorious immortality.     And as touching such worldly estate as it hath pleased God to bestow upon me in this life I give and dispose of it in the following manner, viz

  1. I will and bequeath unto my beloved wife, Reliance Shaw the use and improvement of one third of all my Real Estate during her natural life, Also one third part of my Personal Estate to her use and benefit forever ~

2. I give and bequeath unto my son Sullivan Shaw, Twenty dollars.

3. I will and bequeath unto Hannah Shaw, Widow of my son Orlando Shaw, deceased, One Hundred dollars ~

4. I will and bequeath unto Rebecca Shaw daughter of my son Orlando Shaw, deceased, One hundred dollars ~

5. I will and bequeath unto my daughters Lydia Alden, Lois Hathaway, Delany Reed, Hannah Wilbur & Sally Harris eighty dollars each ~

6. I will and bequeath unto my three sons Calvin Shaw – Zephaniah Shaw Jr. & Ebenezer Shaw all the remainder of my Estate both Real & Personal after the payment of my just debts and funeral charges, to be divided equally among them, all the aforesaid legacies, not otherwise specified, to be paid in one year after my decease, without interest.

7. I do hereby appoint my sons Calvin Shaw & Zephaniah Shaw Junr. both of said Middleborough, joint and sole executors of this my last Will & Testament – And I do hereby revoke all former Wills & Testaments heretofore made or named declaring, ratifying and confirming this to be my last Will and Testament.     In witness whereof I the said Zephaniah Shaw have hereunto set my hand and seal this seventeenth day of November in the year of Our Lord One thousand, eight hundred and twenty seven.

                                                                                                                                                Zephaniah Shaw                              (seal)

   Signed sealed & delivered, published

and declared by the said Zephaniah Shaw to be his last Will

and Testament, in presence of us

                Philip Colby

                Eleanor G. Haradon

                Rebekah Gwineth

 

Presented for probate on 13 Jan. 1829, and proved by Philip Colby and Eleanor G. Haradon, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Calvin Shaw and Zephaniah Shaw, of Middleborough, were granted letters testamentary on the estate of Zephaniah Shaw, late of Middleborough, on 13 Jan. 1829.

 

Solomon Alden Jur, of Bridgewater, Simon Backus and Zebulon K. Pratt, of Middleborough, were appointed to appraise the estate of Zephaniah Shaw, late of Middleborough, on 13 Jen. 1829. The Inventory of the estate of Zephaniah Shaw, late of Middleborough, was dated 17 Jan. 1829, his real estate totaled $3233, including his homestead in Middleborough estimated at 90 acres valued at $3000, and his personal estate totaled $976.40. Zephaniah Shaw and Calvin Shaw, the Executors, gave their oath to the inventory on 7 Apr. 1829.

 

Solomon Alden Junr. of Bridgewater, Seth Eaton Esqr. and Zebulon K. Pratt, of Middleborough, were appointed to set off to the widow Reliance Shaw her dower in the Real Estate of Zephaniah Shaw, late of Middleborough, on 19 Jan. 1829. The division was dated 14 Mar. 1829, and was approved on 4 Aug. 1829.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 66, pp. 409-410, 501-502, from FHL microfilm #0555259, and Vol. 67, p. 432-434.

 

 

Will of William Shearman of Marshfield, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1739) *

In the Name of God Amen the thirtieth Day of November in the Year of our Lord one Thousand Seven Hundred and thirty nine 1739  I William Shearman of Marshfield in the County of Plimouth in the Province of the Massachusetts Bay in New England Yeoman being Aged, and Infirm of Body but of Sound Minde and Memory and Calling unto minde The Uncertainty of this Life and being Desirous to Settle things in order do make and ordain this my last Will and Testament in manner and form following vizt.  I Recomend my soul to god my Creator, and my Body to the Earth to be Buried in Such Deacent Christian manner as to my Executor hereafter named Shall be thought to be most meet and Convenient, and as to Such Worldly Goods and Estate as the Lord in Mercy hath given to me my minde and Will is that the Same Shall be Imployed and Disposed of as in this my Will is hereafter Expressed that is to say —

                My Minde and will is that all my Just Debts and Funerall Charges shall be Well and Truely paid by my Son in Law Adam Hall and Sarah Hall his wife. Item I give and bequeath unto my two Grandchildren the Children of my Daughter Thankfull Polden Deceased five and Twenty Pounds apeice vizt to my Grand Son John Polden to be paid when he Cometh to the Age of Twenty one years, and to my Grand Daughter Mary Polden when she Cometh to the Age of eighteen years

        Item I give and bequeath to my Son in Law Adam Hall and to my Daughter Sary Hall his Wife the one halfe of all my Reall Estate to them their Heirs & assigns forever allways provided and it is hereby Intended that theay my sd Son in Law, and Daughter their Heirs, Executors or Adminrs, or one of them shall and do well and Truely pay all my Just Debts, and Funerall Charges above mentioned, and also Well and Truely pay the Legacies above given to my two Grand Children when theay Come to the ages above Expressed

        Item, I give and bequeath to my Daughter Mary Shearman and to my Daughter Abigail Shearman all the other half of my Real Estate to them Equally Between them two. to them their Heirs and Assigns for ever and further my minde and Will is that my Daughter Mary Shearman and my Daughter Abigail Shearman Shall have all my Moveable Estate that Shall be Left at my Decease Equally to be Divided between them two, And Lastly I, do appoint my Son in Law Adam Hall and my Daughter Mary Shearman Joynt Executors of this my last Will and Testament. In Witness whereof I have hereunto Set my Hand and Seal the Day and year above Written

Memorandum the Words Just Debts between the 29th and thirtieth Lines was Enterlined before Sealing –

Signd Seald. Published                                                                                                                         his

and declared by the sd                                                                                                                                             William  W  Shearman                                  (seal)

William Shearman the                                                                                                                       mark

Testator to be his last

Will and Testament in

the Preasance of

Samll. Shearman

Gershom Shearman

Arthur Howland

 

Proved on 7 Apr. 1740 by Samuell Shearman, Gershom Shearman and Arthur Howland, the witnesses. Adam Hall is called a “Mariner,” and Mary Shearman is called “Spinster” in the Letter of Administration.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 8, p. 172-174, from FHL microfilm #0551531.

 

 

Will of Zephaniah Shepardson of Guilford, Vermont (1802) *

In the name of God amen: the twentieth Day of July in the year of our Lord one thousand Eight hundred and two—I Zephaniah Shepardson of Guilford In the County of Windham and State of Vermont Gentleman being in a considerable state of health of body and mind & memory Thanks be given to God therupon Therefore calling unto mind the mortality of my body and knowing that it is appointed for all men once to die do make and ordain this my last will and testament, that is to say principally and first of all I give and recommend my soul into the hands of God who gave it and my body I recommend to the earth to be buried in a decent and christian manner at the descretion of my Executrix nothing doubting of the word of God that at the general resurrection there shall be a resurrection of all things and that when he who is our life shall appear I shall be like him, complete in body and soul preserved and raised by the mighty power of God ~~

And as touching such worldly estate wherewith it hath pleased God to bless me with in this life that I have not disposed of heretofore I now give, demise and dispose of the same in the following manner and form – Imprimis – I give and bequeath to Lucinda Shepardson my lawfull wife all my cows and all my sheep and other neat stock my horse and side saddle together with my Cutler with the tackling thereto belonging my loom and the tackling thereto belonging and the one half of my wearing apparrel together with all my other moveables – Item I give to my son Zephaniah Shepardson and to my son William Shepardson and to my daughter Ruth Barney and my son Joseph Shepardson and to my son Jared Shepardson and to my daughter Damaris Billings Shepardson and my son David Church Shepardson each of them twelve and an half cents together with the one half of my wearing apparrel equally divided among them having given each of them their proportion out of my estate heretofore ~~

Item I give to my beloved grandson William Shepardson my saddle on Which I ride. My wife Lucinda Shepardson likewise I constitute and make and ordain my sole Executor of this my last will and testament. And I do hereby utterly disallow revoke and disannul all and every other former wills and testaments legacies bequeaths and Executors by me in any ways before named willed or bequested ratifying this an no other to be my last will and testament In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal the Day and Year above written

Signed sealed published and declared

by the said Zephaniah Shepardson

as his last will and testament

in presence of the Subscribers

John Slater                                                                                                                            Zephaniah Shepardson                  (seal)

William Cleaver

Hannah Palmer

 

Proved on 20 Nov. 1804 by John Slatar and William Cleaver before Ebenezer Allen, Judge of Probate.

Lucinda Shepardson of Guilford, sole Executrix of the last will & testament of Zephaniah Shepardson, late of Guilford, petitioned for probate of the estate of her late husband, and posted bond for $500 with John Slater as surety.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Marlboro District, Vermont, Probate Records, Vol. 2, pp. 588-591, from FHL microfilm #0029138.

 

 

Will of Asa Sherman of Plympton, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1826) *

        In the name of God, Amen – I Asa Sherman of Plympton in the County of Plymouth, and Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Yeoman, being blessed with a comfortable degree of health – and of perfect mind and memory, thanks be given to God therefor – calling to mind the mortality of my body, and knowing that it is appointed for all men once to die – do make and ordain this my last Will and Testament, and desire it may be received by all Men as such.

And principally and first of all I give my soul into the hands of God who gave it – and my body I recommend to the earth to be buried in decent Christian burial, at the discretion of my Executor hereafter named. – And as toutching such worldly estate wherewith it has pleased God to bless me in this life I give, demise and dispose of the same in the following manner and form –

Imprimis – I give to my well beloved wife Polly Sherman the improvement of one third part of all my Real Estate so long as she shall remain my widow. I also give her one Cow, together with all my household furniture, to her heirs and assigns to her to dispose of as she shall think proper ~ ~

        Item – I give and bequeath to my son George Sherman all my homestead farm, with all the buildings thereon standing, with all the lands, meadow and out-lands that I now own or possess: I also give him all my stock on my farm, including my horse, Horned cattle and sheep, one Cow excepted: I also give him all my farming tools and utensils to him, his heirs and assigns, to his and their use and behoof forever.

        Item. I hereby absolutely order my son George Sherman to pay to my three sons herein named, viz – to pay Joseph Sherman fifty dollars, – to my Son Asa Sherman fifty dollars – and to my son Zacheus Sherman fifty dollars – to be paid to them or their heirs or assigns in six months after my decease, with interest.   And I do hereby positively order my son George Sherman to pay all my just debts and funeral expenses.

        Lastly – I do constitute, make and ordain my son George Sherman my sole executor of this my last Will and Testament – and I do hereby utterly disallow, revoke and disanul all and every other former will and Testament, legacies, bequeaths and Executors, by me in any wise before willed or bequeathed – Ratifying and confirming this and no other to be my last Will and Testament –

                In witness Whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this sixteenth day of March in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred & twenty six.

                                                                                                                                                Asa Sherman                                     (seal)

  Signed, sealed, pronounced & declared by the said Asa Sherman to be his last Will & Testament in the presence of us the subscribers.

                Elijah Bisbee

                William Bisbee

                John P. Ellis

 

Presented for probate on the first Tuesday of Nov. 1836 by George Sherman, the Executor therein named, and proved by John P. Ellis, the only surviving witness thereto subscribed, Elijah Bisbee and William Bisbee both now deceased. Letters Testamentary were granted to George Sherman, the Executor therein named.

 

George Sherman, of Plympton, was granted Letters of Administration on the estate of Asa Sherman, late of Plympton, Yeoman, on 1 Nov. 1836, with Jonathan Parker and John P. Ellis, both of Plympton, as sureties.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Asa Sherman, late of Plympton, was appraised on 14 Nov. 1836 by Jonathan Parker, Luther Bradford, and John Sherman Jr., and totaled $2392.57, including his real estate valued at $2150. George Sherman, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 5 Dec. 1836.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 78, pp. 445-446, 508, from FHL microfilm #0555264, and Vol. 1G, p. 14.

 

 

Will of Thankful Short of Middleborough, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1794) *

Know all men by these presents, that I Thankful Short of the Town of middleborough in the County of Plymouth & Commonwealth of massachusetts widow, being weak of body, yet of a sound mind & memory, blessed be God for the same, yet considering that it is appointed for all, once to die, do make and ordain, this my last will & testament, to be firm & inviolable forever in manner following – vizt

        I Give & bequeath to George Vaughan of the Town of middleborough aforesaid, all my Estate of all kinds whatever, whether real, personal or mixed with all my dues, claims, rights or credits of any kind, name or nature, he paying out of the same, all my just debts & funeral charges

  I also appoint, constitute & authorise the said George Vaughan to be Sole Executor to this my Last will & testament. – thus hoping that this my last will & testament will be carefully kept & performed, according to the true intent & meaning thereof. I commit my soul to God who gave it & my body to the Dust, to a decent burial. In witness whereof I hereto Set my hand & seal, this Sixteenth day of May, in the year of our Lord, one thousand, seven hundred & ninety four

Signed, Sealed & declared, by the said                                                                                             her

Thankful Short to be her will & testa-                                                                             Thankful  X  Short                               (seal)

ment in presence of us                                                                                                                        mark

                Jacob Wood

                Seth Southworth

                Nehemh. Bennet

 

Presented for probate on 7 Oct. 1794 by George Vaughan, the Executor therein named, and proved by Jacob Wood and Nehemiah Bennet, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to George Vaughan, Gentleman, the before named Executor, with Nehemiah Bennet and Jacob Wood, yeoman, all of Middleborough, as sureties.

No inventory of her estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 35, p. 158-160, from FHL microfilm #0550718.

 

 

Will of William Short of Middleborough, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1773) *

                                                                In the Name of GOD, Amen.

This twentyfifth day of January in the year of our Lord one thousand, seven hundred, seventy & three. I William Short of Middleborough in the county of Plymouth in New-England being weak in body but sound in understanding and memory blessed be GOD for the same, and being sensible of my own mortality, and knowing it is apointed for all once to dye do make and ordain this my last will & testament, that is to say.

Principally and first of all, I give and recomend my soul into the hand of GOD that gave it and my body to the earth to be decently buried at the discretion of my executor, nothing doubting but at the general resurection I shall receive the same by the mighty power of GOD, and as touching such worldly estate as it hath pleased GOD to bless me with in this life, I give and dispose of the same in manner & form following, that is to say.

   Imprimis, I give unto my loving wife Thankfull Short the use and improvement of all my estate real & personal, excepting what I shall hereafter mention during her natural life. I also give unto my said wife the one half of all my movable estate free and clear to be at her own disposal, to her and her heirs forever.—

   Item, I give and bequeath unto my four relatives viz unto Paul Pratt, Noah Pratt, William Fuller, & Simeon Fuller, all my wearing aparel, to be equally divided among them to them, their heirs & assigns forever.—

   Item, I give and bequeath unto Thomas Fuller now living with me my year & ‘vantage steers and also that his aunt that is my wife shall keep them for him until he the said Thomas arrive to the age of twenty & one years, to him, his heirs & assigns forever.—

   Item, I give and bequeath unto Lucretia Fuller, alias Cole, my year and ‘vantage heifer, also that my said wife keep her for her until said heifer be three years old, to her her heirs & assigns forever.~~

And my will is and I do give & bequeath after the decease of my beloved wife as above expressed, all my real & personal estate not otherwise disposed unto my surviving nearest relations, to be equally divided agreable to the letter of the law, and I do by this my last will & testament constitute & apoint my trusty & faithful friend Nathanael Wood of Middleborough sole executor of this my Last will & testament. ~

   In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand & seal the day and year above-written. ~~

Signed, sealed, published & declared

                in presence of us                                                                                                  William Short                                    (seal)

Jesse Vaughan.   Nathanael Wood junr

                        William Shaw

 

Presented for probate on 1 Mar. 1773 by Nathanael Wood, of Middleborough, gentleman, the executor therein named, and proved by Nathanael Wood junr. and William Shaw, two of the witnesses.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of William Short, late of Middleborough, was appraised by Ephraim Wood, Nathan Darling, and William Shaw, on 6 Mar. 1773, and totaled £426.18.8, including his homestead valued at £200. Nathanael Wood, the Executor, gave his oath to inventory on 5 Apr. 1773.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 21, p. 294-295, from FHL microfilm #0550712.

 

 

Will of Israel Silvester of Duxbury, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1771) *

In the Name of God Amen I Israel Silvester of Duxborough Being Aged But in Sound mind and Memory Expecting The the Day of my Death is at hand Do make and ordain this My Last Will and Testement viz: first Resigning my Soul to God Who Gave it I Commend my Bodey to a Decent and Christan Buriall at the Descretion of my Executors heirafter named and as for my Goods and outward Estate which shall Remain in my Posseson after the defraying debts and funeral Charges I dispose of the Same as Follows Imprimas I Give and Bequath to my Beloved Wife Abigail the Use and Emprovt of my Reall Estate in Duxborough With the hous holde goods all But what heirafter Disspase of so Long as She Remains my wido and allso to Pay to my Son Joseph Silvester at my decease three hundred Pounds and after she Dun with it I Shall Dispose of it as folows to my Son Joseph I Give my Cane that was my Granfather’s with what he has all redey had with the three hundred pounds his mother is to pay him at my decease Item to my son Israel Silvester my farm I Now Live on the farm I Bought of william Brewster the hol of it both medow and upLand with all the priviledges their unto belonging With one half my wood Land at Island Creek pond and Likewise the one half the farming tols and one half the Stock and one fether Bed and one half my Waring Cloaths Item I Give to my Son Zachriah Silvester my old farm that was my fathers Both medow and upland with one half my wood Land at Island Creek pond and Likewise one half my wairing Cloaths and one fether Bed Item I Give to my Dafter Abigail Silvester two fether Beds with the furnetuer their unto beloning At my decese With the Grat Chamber in the hous that is on the farm that was my fathers and one Cow and her two Brothers Israel and Zachriah are to paster her and [smear] her for their Sister and to pay to their Sister forty pounds a peace When she is maried and She is to have the Cow after she is maried and she is to grais the hous and Keeping the Cow not Chargabe to them and after her mother decese She is to have all the Movbels out of the hous that her mother has Left and it is to be observed that for and in Consideration of What I have already given my Sons and Dafter by deed or otherwise I Give them no more then the above Specifyed Bequests always provided, and it is my Will that if anything be Left that is not disposed of Detes and funeral Charges are paid my will is that it Shall goe to my Sons Israel and Zechriah, but yil in Case nothing be Left or not sufficent be Left at my Decese, then my Last mentiand two sons pay all Debts finiley I Constitiuet my two Sons Israel Silvester and Zachriah Silvester Executors of this my Last will and testement in Witness wheair of I have heair unto Sett my hand and Seal this Eigth Day of februery anno Domini 1771 and in the Eleventh year of the Raing of King Gorge the third

Sined Sealed published and Delivered                                                                             Israel Silvester

In presence of us

  Joshua Hall

  Thaddeus Peterson

  Samson holmes

 

John Samson was appointed as Administrator on the estate of Israel Sylvester, late of Duxbury, shipwright, deceased, on 3 Mar. 1788, with Joseph Sampson of Kingston, Gentm, and John Faunce of Kingston, yeoman, as sureties.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Docket #19974, the will not recorded in the probate books.

 

 

Will of Joseph and Hannah Silvester of Plymouth, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1734) *

In the Name of God Amen the first day of November. In the year of our Lord One thousand Seven Hundred and Thirty and four—

We Joseph Silvester and Hannah Silvester his wife both of Plimouth in the County of Plimouth In his Majesty’s province of the Massachusets Bay in NewEngland; Calling Unto mind the Mortality of our bodys and knowing That it is appointed for all Men Once to dye; Do Make and Ordain this our last Will and Testament, That is to Say Principally and first of all, We Give our Soles into the hands of God yt. Gave them & Our Bodys We Recommend to the Earth to be Buried in Decent and Christain manner at the Discretion of our Execrs. Nothing Doubting but at the Generall Resurrection We Shall Receive the Same aGain by the Allmighty power of God and as Touching such worldly Estate wherewith it hath pleased God to Bless us in this Life, We Give & Demise & Dispose of the same in the following Manner and form—

Imprimis; We Give to our well beloved son Sollomon Silvester Forty Acres of land of the Southerly side of our Land which Lieth at the head of the Mill pond in Plimouth at Moniment-ponds, to him his heirs and Assigns for Ever, togather with what he hath allready Reserved is his full part of our Estate –

Item. We Give to the Children of our son Joseph Silvester Deceasd One fifth part of all our Estate both Real and personall in Plimouth and Else to them there heirs and Assigns forever.  Item We Give to our four Daughters Hannah Holmes, Mary Rider, Thankfull Rider and Content Holmes four fifths of all our Estate both Real and personall in Pilmouth and Else where To them there heirs and assigns for Ever, to Each of them in Equall parts that is Each of them One fifth part of all our Estate and if it so happen that the Above named Hannah Silvester after the Decease of her Husband She shall have the Improvement of the above Demised premisses and all the whole of Estate Dureing her Naturall Life and After her Decease to be Inhereted in Manner, as above Expresed We Do also Hereby Constitute our Well beloved sons, Solomon Silvester and Eleazer Holmes our Sole Execrs of this our last Will and Testamt. and We do Hereby Utterly Disalow revoke and Disanull all and every Other former Testamt., Will, Legaices & Bequests & Execrs. by us in any ways before Named willed and Bequeathed, Ratifying and Confirming this and no Other to be our last Will and Testamt. In Witness whereof we have here unto sett our hands and Seal

Signed Sealed published pronounced & Declared by the sd.                                       Joseph Silvester                                (seal)

Joseph Silvester and Hannah Silvester as their last Will &                                                         her

Testamt. in presents of us the Subscribers                                                                       Hannah  h  Silvester                            (seal)

Elisha Holmes                                                                                                                                 marke

Josiah Morton

Elisha Holmes Junr

 

Presented for probate on 4 Mar. 1754 by the Executors therein named, and proved by Elisha Holmes, one of the witnesses, Elisha Holmes Junr. being since deceased. Letters of Administration were granted to Solomon Silvester and Eleazer Holmes, both of Plimouth, the Executors, on 4 March 1754.

 

The Inventory of the Real and Personall Estate of Mr. Joseph Silvester and Hannah his wife late of Plimo., was appraised on 14 Mar. 1754 by Joseph Bartlett, Jonathan Bartlett, and John Blackmer, and totaled £541.1.44, including their homestead dwelling house, barn and out housen valued at £427. Solomon Silvester and Eleazer Holmes, the Executors, gave their oath to the inventory on 21 Mar. 1754.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 13, pp. 205-206, 249-250, from FHL microfilm #0551540.

 

 

Will of Richard Silvester of Scituate, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1765) *

The third day of January anno Domini 1765. I Richard Silvester of Scituate in the county of Plymouth in New-England yeoman, being aged & under infirmity of body, but of sound mind & memory, therefore calling to mind the mortality of my body, and knowing it appointed unto man once to die, do therefore make and ordain this my Last will and testament in manner and form following. ~

Imprs. I give to my daughter Desire Liscomb one half of all my pewter ware in the house. ~

Item. I give to my daughter Faith Rose the other half of my pewter ware. –

Item, I give to my son Nehemiah Silvester all the rest of my estate, both real & personal of what kind or nature soever or wheresoever lying or being, to hold the same to him, his heirs & assigns forever, upon condition that he or they, maintain & support my wife, during the whole term of her natural life.

        Lastly, I do hereby nominate & appoint my son Nehemiah Silvester sole executor of this my Last will & testament. In witness whereof, I have hereunto set my hand & seal the day & year first above written. ~

Signed, sealed, published, & declared by the

said Richard Silvester, to be his Last will &                                                                  Richard Silvester                             (seal)

testament in presence of us witnesses. ~

Caleb Torrey, Mary Lincoln +  Isaac Lincoln Junr.

 

Presented for probate on 19 Feb. 1768 by Nehemiah Silvester, the executor therein named, and proved by Caleb Torrey and Mary Lincoln, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Nehemiah Silvester, the before named executor, with Luke Silvester, of Scituate, and Seth Sylvester, of Chesterfield in the county of Hampshire, as sureties.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 20, p. 61-62, from FHL microfilm #0550711.

 

 

Will of Zebulon Silvester of Scituate, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1766) *

                                                In the Name of God, Amen.

I Zebulon Silvester of Scituate in the county of Plimouth in NewEngland yeoman, being infirm of body but of sound mind & memory do make & ordain this my last will & testament, in manner following, first, I recommend my soul to God that gave it, & my body to the earth to a decent burial at the discretion of my executors hereafternamed, and touching my worldly goods & estate which God has blessed me withall I give & bequeath & dispose of the same in manner following, that is to say. ~

Imprimis. I give unto my welbeloved wife Mary Silvester the use & improvement of all my estate both real & personal as long as she shall remain my widdow after my just debts & funeral charges are paid out of the personal estate, & if the improvement of said estate should not be sufficient for her comfortable support, she may dispose of personal estate for the same. ~

Item. I give unto three of my sons namely Jacob, Nathaniel & Zebulon five shillings a piece lawful money to be paid by my son Elisha Silvester after the decease of me & my wife. ~

Item. I give unto my son Israel Silvester & his heirs & assigns forever a certain piece of land lying & being in Scituate adjoining to the highway which goeth by my house & adjoining to some land I sold to my son Jacob Silvester & is bounded as followeth, beginning with the fence of sd. Land which I sold to Jacob near said Israel,s shop, & runneth with sd. highway nineteen rods with the highway to a stake & stones or fence, then runneth west & by South with the fence to Joshua Jacob,s land then with sd. Jacob.s land to the land I sold to Jacob Silvester, then with sd. Jacob.s land to the first corner saving to my wife the improvement as long as she shall remain widdow.

Item. I give unto my son Luke Silvester & his heirs & assigns forever a certain piece of land adjoining to the land I gave to my son Israel, bounded as followeth, beginning at the corner of sd. Israel,s land by the highway, then runneth with said highway twenty rods to a stake &stones or fence then west & by south with the fence by Joshua Jacobs,s Land, then with sd. Jacobs land, to the Land given to my son Israel then with sd land to first corner, saving to my wife the improvemt. so long as she shall remain my widdow.

Item. I give unto my son Elisha Silvester, his heirs & assigns forever all my land on the easterly side of the highway where the house standeth, between the land of Benjamin Jacobs & the land of Israel Silvester with the buildings thereon, also the land on the westerly side of the highway adjoining to the land I gave to my son Luke & the land of Joshua Jacob & sd. highway with the buildings thereon, saving to my wife the use & improvement so long as she shall remain my widdow, also I reserve to my daughter Mary Silvester the privilege of living in the west end of the house, & a privilege in the cellar, also of getting apples in the orchard for her own use after my wife,s decease as long as shall remain single or unmarried. ~ Also my son Elisha Silvester or heirs must pay to my three sons namely Jacob, Nathaniel & Zebulon The sum of five shillings lawful money a piece after my decease & decease of my wife, also thirteen pounds, six shillings & eight pence lawfl. money to help pay the debts out of the estate I have given you. ~

Item. I give unto my daughter Mary Silvester my best bed & furniture after my wife,s decease, also the privilege of living in the west end of the house, & a privilege in the cellar, & also of getting Apples in the orchard for her own use after my wifes decease so long as she remains unmarried. ~

Item. I give unto my three daughters Olive Groce, Martha Prouty, & Mary Silvester all my personal estate that shall remain at my wife,s decease to be equally divided among them, except what I have before given to my daughter Mary Silvester.~

Item. I give all my estate real & personal not before given away in this my will to my Executors. ~

Lastly, I nominate & appoint my welbeloved wife executrix & my welbeloved Son Elisha Silvester executor to this my last will & testamt,~

In witness whereof I,ve hereunto set my hand & seal this 26th day of april anno Domini 1766. –

                                                                                                                                                                his

Signed, sealed, published & declared by                                                                        Zebulon  \  Silvester                                            (seal)

the sd. Zebulon Silvester to be his last will &                                                                                 mark

Testament in presence of, Joshua Jacob, Thomas totman, Joshua Jacob Junr.

 

Presented for probate on 4 Aug. 1766 by Mary Silvester and Elisha Silvester, the executors therein named, and proved by Joshua Jacob, Thomas Totman, and Joshua Jacob junr., the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Mary Silvester and Elisha Silvester, the Executors.

 

The Inventory of the estate of Zebulon Silvester, late of Scituate, was appraised on 16 Dec. 1766 by Joshua Jacob, Isaac Daman, and John Briant, and totaled £206.9.7.1, including his real estate valued at £133.6.8. The executors gave their oath to the inventory on 3 Apr. 1767.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 19, pp. 380-381, 489, from FHL microfilm #0550711.

 

 

Will of Aaron Simmons of Duxbury, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1790) *

The Last will & testament of Aaron Simmons of Duxbury in the County of Plymouth, in Commonwealth of Massachusetts State, in New England, yeoman

   I the said Aaron Simmons being under many bodily infirmities, yet of perfect mind & memory for which I thank God, and calling to mind the mortality of my body, do, upon serious consideration make & ordain these presents to be my Last will & testament, to remain firm & inviolable forever, that is to say first of all, I Give & Recommend my soul to God that Gave it, & my body I Recommend to the Earth, to be buried in a decent Christian manner at the discretion of my Executor herein after named nothing doubting but at the Resurrection I shall recieve the same again, and as touching such worldly Estate which God hath blessed me with in this Life I Give and Devise and dispose of the same in the following manner & form

Imprimis—I Give to my true and Loving wife the whole improvement of my Real and Personal Estate after my debts & funeral Charges are paid so Long as she remains my widow

Item – I Give to my Son Jesse Simmons, after the end of his mothers widowhood the whole of my Real and Personal Estate he paying all my Debts and a Hundred pounds to his Sister Mary Sherman as a Legacy or her portion

Lastly— my will is that my Son Jesse Simmons be the Sole Executor of this my Last will and testament, thus hoping that this my Last will & testament be kept performed according to the true intent and meaning there of

In Witness whereof I ye. aforesaid Aaron Simmons have here unto Set my hand and seal this sixteenth day of March Anno Domini one thousand seven hundred and Ninety 1790. ~

Signed, Sealed & declared by the afore-                                                                         Aaron Simmons                                (seal)

named Aaron Simmons to be his Last

will & testament in presence of us

                Elijah Peterson

                Jabez Peterson

                Reuben Delano

 

Presented for probate on 29 May 1790 by Jesse Simmons, the Executor therein named, and proved by Elijah Peterson and Reuben Delano, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Jesse Simmons, the before named Executor, with Reuben Delano and William Weston, all of Duxbury, as sureties.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 31, p. 185-187, from FHL microfilm #0550716.

 

 

Will of Abraham Simmons of Duxbury, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1740) *

In the Name of God Amen the thirteenth day of September 1740 I Abraham Simmons of Duxborough in the County of Plymouth in New England Cordwainer being bound On an Expedition to the West Indies & knowing that it is appointed for all Men Once to die doe Make and Ordain this my last Will and Testament that is to Say Principally and first of all I Give & Recommend my Soul into ye Hands of God that gave it me, & my body I Recommend to the Earth to be buried in Decent — Christian Burial at the Discretion of my Executor nothing doubting but at the Generall Resurrection I Shall Receive ye same again by the mighty power of God and as touching such worldly Estate wherewith it hath Please’d God to bless me with in this life I give demise and dispose of ye Same in ye following Manner & Form

Imprimis, I Give and bequeath to my Brother Zackariah Simmons & his Heirs and his Heirs One fourth part of all my Estate Item I give & bequeath To my Brother Benja. Simmons and his Heirs One quarter part of all my Estate

Item I Give & bequeath to my Sister Mercy Simmons One fourth part of my Estate

Item I Give & bequeath to my Sister Content Simmons & her Heirs One quarter part of all my Estate

I Likewise appoint Samuel Weston to be my Sole Executor of this my last Will and Testamt. Ratyfying & Confirming this and no Other to be my Last Will & Testament In Witness Where of I have hereunto set my Hand & Seal the day & year above Written.

Signd Seald & Declard

        In Presence of

Nathaniel Simmons                                                                                                             Abraham Simmons          (seal)

Mercy Simmons

Samuel Weston Junr.

 

Presented for probate by the Execr. on 2 Nov. 1741, and proved by Nathll Simmons & Samll Weston Junr., two of the witnesses.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Abraham Simmons, late of Duxborough, deceased, was appraised by John Southworth, Moses Simmons and Nathll. Simmons, not totaled or dated, but small, including no real estate. Samuel Weston, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 6 May 1742.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 8, pp. 435, 465-466, from FHL microfilm #0551531.

 

 

Will of Isaac Simmons of Duxbury, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1764) *

                                In the Name of God, Amen.

I Isaac Simmons of Duxborough in the county of Plymouth yeoman, being under infirmity of body but of sound mind & memory (blessed be God for it) and calling to mind my morality, do hereby make & ordain this my last will & testament, and first I recomend & comit my soul into the hands of God that gave it, and my body to the earth to be decently interrd, at the discretion of my executor hereafter-named, in hopes of a resurrection to eternal life, and all my worldly goods, & estate with which God has blessed me in this Life I do hereby give & dispose thereof in maner & form followg.

Imprs. I give & bequeath to my beloved wife Lidia Simmons all my household goods & indoor moveables whatsoever, except what is hereafter particularly disposed of, and one cow, she having liberty to chuse the same, and I further give unto her the use & improvement of the one half of all my real estate (Legacies & debts being first paid) from & after my decease during her remaining my widdow, she being obliged to do one half with my son Levi Simmons in maintaining my sister Priscilla Simmons; But & if she should marry again then to have but one third as the law directs. – and I also give unto her three sheep. ~

Item. I give & bequeath to my son Jehiel Simmons the sum of thirteen pounds, six shillings & eight pence lawful money to be paid by my execor within eighteen months after my decease. And further I give unto him the maintenance & brining up of his son Isaac, so long as he shall live with me.

Item. I give & bequeath to my son & daughter Samuel Holmes & Zenijah Holmes all my right, title & interest in & unto the dwelling-house to them their heirs & assigns forever, And I further give unto them all the houshold goods, & the cow which they have heretofore recd. since their marriage.

Item. I give unto my daughter Martha Lowden the sum of two pounds Lawfl. money, to be paid by my executor within the term of eighteen months after my decease, over & above what she has already recd.~

Item. I give unto my two daughters Lusannah & Lidia one good cow to each or the value thereof in money, & one good bed to each with suitable furniture as their mother shall see fit to furnish the same at the term of their arriving to eighteen years, or sooner if they should marry, & further I give unto each of them the sum of fifteen pounds lawful money at the aforesaid term to be paid by my executor hereafter-named, & I also give unto the said Lidia her maintenance till she arrives to fifteen years of age. ~

Item, I give & bequeath to my son Levi Simmons, whom I do nominate & appoint my sole excor to this my Last will & testament, all & singular the remainder of my estate whatsoever both real & personal, not before disposd. of, with a large iron kettle, apair of iron doggs, & a round table to him & his heirs & assigns forever, He paying all the above legacies & all my just debts & funeral charges, & maintaining his aunt Priscilla Simmons during life. –

In witness whereof I do hereunto set my hand & seal, the thirty first day of August in the fourth year of his majesty,s reign a.d. one thousand seven hundred, & sixty four.

Signed, sealed, published, & declared by the                                                                 Isaac Simmons                  (seal)

abovenamd. Isaac Simons to be his last will &

testamt. in presence of us.  Cornelius Delano,

                                                Mary Peterson,  Nehemiah Thomas

 

Presented for probate on 9 Sept. 1767 by Levi Simmons, the Executor therein named, and proved by Nehemiah Thomas and Mary Peterson, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Levi Simmons, of Duxborough, the Executor, with Nehemiah Thomas and Elisha Foord of Marshfield, yeomen, as sureties.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 19, p. 543-544, from FHL microfilm #0550711.

 

 

Will of Joseph Simmons of Duxbury, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1754) *

In The Name of God Amen The 14th. Day of March in ye year of our Lord 1754 I Joseph Simmons of Duxborough in the County of Plymouth yeoman being Very weakly in body but of Perfect Mind and Memory Thanks be given to God therefor Calling unto Mind the Mortallity of my body and knowing that it is appointed for all men once To Die I Do make and ordain this my Last will & Testament that is To Say first of all I give and Recommend my Soul into the hands of God that gave it and My body I Recommend to ye. Earth to be buried in Decent Cristian Manner at the Discretion of my Executor nothing Doubting but at the general Resurection I Shall Receive ye. same again by the mighty Power of God and as Touching such worldly Estate wherewith it hath Pleased God to Bless me with in this Life, I give & Demise in the following Manner & form

Imprims. I give & bequeath To Mary My Dearly beloved wife 1 Cow & Six Sheep and the Improvement of half of my orchard her Life time & I also give To Mary My wife the one half of my indore Movables to Dispose of as She Pleases.

Item I give & bequeath To my Eldest Son Nathll. Simmons the one half of Lands & Tenements by him firmly to be Possessed & injoyed Likewise one bed hundogs & my warming Pan & my bigest Pewter Plater & half of my wareing Close and half of my out Door Movables besides what he has had in my Life Time obligeing him To Pay one half of my funeral Charges & I also Constitute and make & ordain my Eldest Son Nathll. Simmons Soule Executor of this my last will and Testament.

Item I Give & bequeth unto my well beloved Sone Jedadiah Simmons ye one half of my Lands & Tenaments by him firmly to be Possessed & Injoyed Likewise My Gun & my Loom & half of my wearing apparril & half of my out Door Movables besides what he has had in my life Time obligeing him To Pay half of my Debts & funeral Charges.

Item I Give unto my well beloved Daughter Rebeckah Peterson my best bed only Reserving it To her mother Mary Simmons her life & I give To my Daughter the one half of my indore moveables

Item I also Give To My wife Mary above mentioned ye. one half of my Dwelling house her life Time I Do also my Two Sons Above Mentioned Nathll & Jedediah oblige them To winter & Summer their mothers one Cow & Six Sheep and finde her her as mush fire wood at her Dore as She shall need for To burn.

Item I Give To My Grandson Joseph Simmons my Sea Chart what I have what I have What I have here given To my Daughter above mentioned to wit my best bed & half my Indoor movables is beside what she has already had and I also Give To my Daughter ye. beding that belongs to my best bed with the bed I Do here Verrefy Disallow Revoke & Disanul all & Every other former Testaments & wills Legasies & bequeaths & Executors by me in any ways before mentioned willed and bequeathed Ratyfieng & Confirming this & no other to be my last will & Testaments. In witness where of I have here unto Set my hand & Seal the Day & year above written

Signed Sealed Pronounced & Declard.

By the said Joseph Simmons as his                                                                                  Joseph Simmons                               (seal)

Last will & Testament in the Presenc

of us the Subscribers

Samll. Weston

Elnathan Weston

Judah Delino

 

Presented for probate on 1 June 1761 by the Executor therein named, and proved by Elnathan Weston and Judah Delino, two of the witnesses, Saml. Weston having since deceased. Letters of Administration were granted to Nathll. Simmons, of Duxborough, yeoman, the Executor, on 1 June 1761.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 16, p. 152-154, from FHL microfilm #0151543.

 

 

Will of Levi Simmons of Duxbury, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1798) *

In the Name of God Amen. I Levi Simmons of Duxbury in the County of Plymouth & Comonwealth of Massachusetts, yeoman, being weak in body, but of sound mind & memory, do this twenty eighth day of June in the year of our Lord one thousand, seven hundred, and ninety eight, make & publish this my last will & testament in manner following, that is to say

Imprimis, I Give to my beloved wife the use and improvement of all my estate real, personal or mixed, during the time that she shall continue & remain my widow (that shall be left and remain after my debts & funeral charges are paid)

        Item. I Give & bequeath unto my three sons, Levi Simmons, James Simmons & Lewis Simmons, in equal thirds to be divided, the whole of my real estate, together with all my stock of farming utensills, after my said wife’s improvement thereof shall cease

        Item. I Give & bequeath unto my two daughters Sarah Randall & Lydia Barstow in equal halves, all my indoor moveables or houshold furniture of all kinds (excepting one feather bed & furniture therefore, which I do reserve & bequeath unto my son Lewis Simmons) after my said wife’s improvement thereof shall cease, and

Lastly, I do constitute & ordain my said wife Lydia Simmons & my son James Simmons, joint Executors of this my last will & testament, and I do order & enjoin it on my said Executors, to see to it, that my aforesaid son Lewis Simmons be brought up to & taught & instructed in some mechanical trade or occupation, and that if any expence shall arise thereby it shall be paid out of my real estate before divided.

In Testimony whereof, I do hereunto Set my and & Seal the day & year above written

Signed, Published & declared by the said

Levi Simmons as & for his last will &                                                                                            Levi Simmons                    (seal)

testament in the presence of use, who at

his request & in his presence, hereunto set

our names as witnesses to the same

                Josiah Hatch

                Benjamin Simmons junr

                Asa Waterman

 

Presented for probated on 17 July 1798 by Lydia Simmons & James Simmons, the Executors therein named, and proved by Benjamin Simmons junr & Asa Waterman, two of the witnesses.

 

Asa Waterman of Marshfield, Esqr., and Mss. Gideon Harlow & Lot Keen, both of Duxbury, were appointed to appraise the estate of Levi Simmons, late of Duxbury, yeoman, on 17 July 1798. The Inventory of the estate of Levi Simmons, late of Duxbury, yeoman, totaled $989.30, including his homestead in Duxbury containing about 34 acres with the buildings thereon, valued at $600, and half a pew in the gallery of the South meeting house in Marshfield valued at $8. Lydia & James Simmons, the Executors, gave their oath to the inventory on 3 Dec. 1798.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 36, pp. 395-396, 465-466, from FHL microfilm #0550719.

 

 

Will of Mercy Simmons of Duxbury, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1728) *

The last will & Testament of the widdow Mercy Simmons of Duxborough

I Being sick & weak & not knowing the day of my death yet being of sound mind & memory do thus Will my Estate to be disposed of My soul I give to God my body I committ to the Earth & Will that my debts & funerall charges be paid before any Legacy

I do give my son John Simons five shillings in silver money all my sheep

To my son, William I give one shilling in silver money

To my son Isaac I give five shillings in silver money

To Benjamin Simons I give five shillings in silver money

To Joseph Simons I give five shillings in silver money

To Joshua Simons I give five shillings in silver money.

To my daughter Martha I give five shillings in silver money & my riding gown & best Pollo coat & hood & scarf & red silk wecloth

To my daughter Rebecah I give five shillings in silver money & my best Riding hood. To my son Moses I give my bed & beding belonging to it & my Cow & all the money not disposed of. The rest of my Estate if any there be I give to my children Eaqually between them

I do Constitute & appoint my sons John & Moses to be Executors of this my last Will & Testament & so desireing to live & dye in peace I do here unto set my hand & seal this 26th day of September in the year 1728 in presence of

John Chandler                                                                                                                      Mercy   X   Simons                             (seal)

John Fullerton                                                                                                                          her           mark

Phillip Delano

 

Probated on 8 Nov. 1728, and proved by John Chandler, John Fullerton and Phillip Delano, the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to John Simons and Moses Simons, two of the sons of the said deceased, to Execute the said will.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of the widdow Mercy Simons late of Duxborough, dated 8 Nov. 1728, was appraised by John Chandler and Phillip Delano, but not totaled. John Simons and Moses Simons, the Executors, gave their oath to the inventory on 8 Nov. 1728.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 5, p. 487-489, from FHL microfilm #0550511.

 

 

Will of Moses Simmons of Duxbury, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1758) *

The Last Will & Testament of Moses Simmons of Duxboroug in the County of Plymouth in the Province of the Massachusets Bay in New England Yeoman. I the said Moses Simmons being under Many Bodily Informetys yet of Perfect Mind & memory thanks be given To Almighty god therefor Calling to Mind the mortallity of my boddy & Knowing that it is appointed for all Men once To Die Do upon Serious Considertation make and ordain these Presents to be my Last will & Testament To Remain Firm & Invoioable forever that is To Say first of all I give & Recommend My Soul into the hands of god that gave it & My body I Recommend To the Earth to be buried in Decent Cristain manner at the Descretion of my Executerix herein after named nothing Doupting but at the general Resurrection I shall Receve the Same again by the almighty Power of god and as Touching Such Worldly Estate wherwith it hath Pleased god To bless me with in this Life I give & bequeth and Dispose of the Same in the following manner and forme

Imprs. I Give & bequeth unto My Dear & Loving wife Rachel Simmons the one half of the Improvement of all My Real Estate Excepting what I herein given To My Son Ichabod Simmons During her Natural Life & the one half of my moveable Estate after the Debts & Legaseys have ben Paid out of the Same the one half that Remains

Item I Give & bequeth unto My Eldest Son Ichabod Simmons a Pece of my Land at the Northwest End of my farme on which I now Dwell near Teen acres already sett of

Item I Give unto My Son William Simmons the one half of my home farme or Real Estate Excepting what I have given To my Son Ichabod Simmons Above And the one half of all my movable Estate after the Debts funeral Charges & Legeies are Paid out of the Same the one half that Remains

Item I Give & bequeth unto my Daughter Marcy Simmons wife To Nathl Simmons Two Shillings by Reason She hath had her Portion already

Item I Give & bequeth unto My Daughter Lydia Delino wife To Judah Delino two Shilling & four Pence together with what She Already had

Item I Give & bequeth unto my Daughter Deborah Weston wife To Jacob Weston two Shillings by Reason She hath had her Portion already

Item I Give unto My Daughter Anna Simmons four Pounds

Item I Give & bequeth unto my Son William Simmons above named the Remainder of my Real Estate & home farme at his Mothers Decese

Lastly My will is that My wife Rachal Simmons and my Son William Simmons be the Sole Executor to this my Last will & Testament – Thus Hooping that this my Last will be Kept & Performed according To the Trew Intent & meaning thereof – In Witness where of I the Said Moses Simmons have hereunto Sett My hand & Seal this Tenth Day of april one Thousand Seven hundred & fifty Eight. 1758

Signed Seald. & Delivd. by the afore Namd.

Moses Simmons to be his Last will                                                                                  Moses Simmons                (seal)

& Testament In Presence of

John Chandler ye. 3d

Ruth Fullarton

Jona Peterson

 

Duxborough Feby. 24th. 1761 observe that the Two words that are Rased out in the thirty Eighth Line of this Testament I Don by my order

In Presence of                                                                                                                      Moses Simmons

Saml Delino

Jona Peterson

 

Presented for probate on 3 Aug. 1761 by Rachal Simmons and William Simmons, the Executors therein named, and proved by John Chandler the 3d. and Jonathan Peterson, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Rachal Simmons and Wm. Simmons, the Executors.

 

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 16, p. 208-210, from FHL microfilm #0551543.

 

 

Will of William Simmons of Kingston, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1832) *

In the name of God, Amen, I William Simmons of Kingston in the County of Plymouth, being weak in body but of sound & perfect mind & memory blessed be Almighty God for the same do make & publish this as my last Will & Testament in a manner and form following.

        First I give unto my beloved Wife the improvement of all my Estate both real & personal after my just debts & legacies are paid while she remains my Widow & no longer.

2ly. I give to six of my sons, Viz: George S. Simmons, William Simmons, Melvin Simmons, Nahum Simmons, Francis Simmons and Augustus Simmons, all my Estate as aforesaid both Real & Personal in equal shares.

3ly I give to my son Joseph Simmons One Dollar, to my three daughters, Viz: Hannah, Marcia & Lucy One Dollar each, said legacies to be paid by my Executor within three months from my decease and I hereby appoint my son George S. Simmons sole Executor of this my last Will & Testament and hereby revoking all former Wills by me made.

        In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand & seal this twenty second day of October in the Year of Our Lord Eighteen hundred & thirty two. 1832.

                                                                                                                                                William Simmons                             (seal)

Signed, sealed and delivered by the above named William Simmons

to be his last Will & Testament in presence of us who have hereunto

subscribed our names as witnesses in presence of the testator.

        Charles Holmes

        Charles Simmons

        Almira Simmons

 

Probated on 7 May 1833, and proved by Charles Holmes and Charles Simmons, two of the witnesses. Letters of administration granted to George S. Simmons of Boston, iron founder.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of William Simmons, late of Kingston, was appraised by Robert Holmes, Charles Holmes and Nathl. Holmes on 27 July 1833. His real estate totaled $1530.00, including the homestead farm containing 55 acres with the buildings valued at $1230, and his personal estate totaled $339.15. George S. Simmons, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 12 Aug. 1833, and he was ordered to sell the Personal Estate at public auction on 12 Aug. 1833.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby fro Plymouth County Probate Vol. 74, pp. 144-146, 335-336, from FHL microfilm #0555262.

 

 

Will of Caleb Smith of Goshen, Orange County, Province of New York (1731) *

                                                                                                In the Name of God Amen the twenty Seventh day of December in the Year of our Lord 1731.  I Caleb Smith of Goshen in the County of Orange in the province of New York Yeoman being very Sick and weak in Body But of perfect mind and memory thanks be given unto God therefore calling unto mind the mortality of my Body And knowing that it is appointed for all men once to dye Do make and ordain this My last will and Testament that is to Say

                                                                                                Principally & first of all I Give and recommend my Soul into the hands of God that Gave it, And for my Body I recommend it to the Earth to be buried in A Christianlike and Decent manner at the Discretion of my Executors nothing doubting but at the General Resurrection I shall receive the Same by the mighty power of God and as touching Such worldly Estate Wherewith it hath pleased God to bless me in his Life I Give Devise & dispose of the Same in the following Manner and form

                                                                                                Imprimis it is my Will and I do Order that in the first place all my Just Debts & Funeral charges be paid and Satisfyed by Wait Smith Senr. and Isaac Ludlow both of the aforesaid Goshen and Nehemiah Smith Junr. of Jamaica in Queens County in the province aforesaid which three I Likewise constitute make and ordain my only and Sole Executors of this my Last Will and Testament to whom I Give and Bequeath all that certain tract of Land Scituate Lying and being in the south East Division of the Township of Goshen known by No 26 containing one hundred & Eighty two acres which said Lott of Land I Give to the Said Executors to be Sold by them to Defray the Charges aforesaid the overplus to be Added to the Moveables

                                                                                                Item I Give and Bequeath unto Phebe my Dearly beloved wife the one Equal third part of all my moveables with the use of my Dwelling House & Land that is Improved So Long as she Shall remain My widdow the moveables for Ever

                                                                                                Item I Give and bequeath to my wellbeloved Sons Henry Elias and Jeremiah Each of them An Equal third part of my Homestead So that Henry pays my well beloved Son Timothy Five pounds Current money of New York And that when the Said Timothy comes to the Age of twenty one And Elias to pay the like sum to Isaac when he shall be of the age of twenty one And Jeremiah the aforesaid sum To pay to John when he shall come of age as aforesaid And Suppose My wife to bring forth a boy which I Suspect to be big of Child the Said Supposed boy when he comes of age shall receive five pounds like Currant Money as aforesaid from his three other brothers Henry Elias and Jeremiah Each paying A like proportion

                                                                                                If any of the Said boys dye which have no Issue the Said Legacy to be paid Equal Among the rest of his Brothers

                                                                                                Item I Give and Bequeath to my well beloved Daughters Phebe and Sarah Each an equal proportion of the remaining two thirds of my moveables but supposing my wife to have a girl She shall draw an equal proportion with her two Sisters if any of the Girls dye without Issue the Said Legacy to go to the other Girls

                                                                                                And I do hereby utterly dissallow revoke and dissannull all & every other former wills Testaments Legacys & Executors by me in any ways before this time named willed and bequeathed ratifying and confirming this & no other to be my Last will & Testament

                                                                                                In Witness whereof I have hereunto Set my hand and Seal the day and year above written

                                                                                                                                                Caleb Smith                                       (seal)

 

Signed Sealed published and pronounced and declared by the Said Caleb Smith as his Last will and Testament in the presence of us the Subscribers

John Thomson

James Tomson

Joshua Smith

Probated on 22 April 1732, Letters of Administration granted to Isaac Ludlow, one of the Executors, Nehemiah Smith Junr., one other of the Executors having renounced the Executorship, and the power being reserved unto Wait Smith Senr., the other Executor.

 

*Transcribed by John A. Maltby from New York County Probate, Vol. 11, p. 257-260, copied from original Liber 11, p. 269-272.

 

 

Will of Cornel Smith of Hempstead, Queens County, Province of New York (1781) *

Know All Men by these presents that I Cornel Smith of the Township of Hempstead in Queens County and Provinc of New York yeoman, being this twenty Eight day of May in the year of Our Lord one thousand seven hundred and Eighty one, weak in Body but of sound mind and memory for which I bless Almighty God, and not knowing how soon it may please the Lord to take me away by Death thefore I do make and ordain this present writeing and no other to be my last Will and Testament as followeth. first I do Recomend my Soul to God who gave it and my Body I committ to the Earth to be Buried with a Descent Burial at the Discretion of my Executors herein after named, and as touching my worldly Estate wherewith it hath pleased the Lord to bless me with I will devise and dispose of in the following manner Item I will and bequeath unto my loveing and well beloved Wife Mercy Smith My best feather Bed and furniture, two Cows and Calves, two horses and my Farming Utensils, ten sheep and Thirty pounds in money all at her Own disposall in Lue of her Right of Dower; and my Will is and I do order and direct that my said Wife shall have the use of all my household Goods and four Cows, and the use and profitts of my Dwelling house and Land that is to say, All the Land belonging to my homstead that Derived unto me from my Deceased Father, and also the Lott of Salt meadow and up Land that I Bought of Abijah Bedel so long as she shall remain my Widdow towards the Edicution and bringing up of my Children, untill my younger Sons shall be twenty one years of age  Item I will and Bequeath unto my Daughter Susannah Smith one Feather Bed Beding and appurtenances thereunto belonging to her own disposall. Item I will and bequeath unto my Son Amos my Gun and Cutlash and the sword that was My Son Elijah’s I give unto my Son John to their Disposall)  Item my will is and I do order and Direct my Executors to sell all the Remainder of my moveable Estate not above disposed of, and the money ariseing therefrom to be disposed of in the following manner  First the above said sum of Thirty pounds to my said Wife as aforesaid and to my said Daughter Susannah the sum or sixty pounds in money to be at her own disposall, and my Will is and I do order that all my Just Debts together with my funerall Charges be fully paid out of the money ariseing from my moveable Estate as aforesaid (It is to be understood that my Negro Slaves is to be sold as my moveable Estate) Item I will and bequeath unto my Son Jacob Smith all the Remainder of the Farm or Land that I Bought of Nehemiah Lammis only Excepting the south part that I have already Conveyed unto my Son Cornell Smith Juner, and to Remain unto the said Jacob Smith and to his Heirs and assigns for ever) Item I will and Bequeath unto my Son Amos Smith All the Land that I purchased of my Brother Jonathan Smith Deceased it being about ten Acres, and also all the Land that I purchased of Jonathan Smith Juner Deceased adjoyning to the said ten Acres, and also a pece of plain Land and hollow Ground that I purchased of Silvanus Smith, all which said three pieces I do give unto my said Son Amos Smith and to Remain unto him and to his Heirs and assigns for ever) Item I Will and bequeath unto my two youngest Sons Namely John Smith and David Smith my Homestead whereon I now Live and appurtenances, that is to say my Dwelling House and Land near and adjoyning that Derived unto me from my Father Jonathan Smith Deceased, which my Wife is to have the use of as aforesaid together with my Lott of Salt meadow and up Land Sittuate on Coes neck that I bought of Abijah Bedel and a small Hay House on said neck to be Removed thereon, and also five Acres of Wood Land part of the Land that I purchased of Samuel Clowes and James Wood adjoyning to the West side of the path that Goes to Samuel Motts mill, All of which I do give unto my said Sons John Smith and David Smith to be Divided Equell between them and Remain unto them and to Each of their Heirs and assigns forever. But my Will is that if either of them should Dye before they shall arive to be twenty one years of Age not then haveing Lawfull Issue that the Deceased sons part shall Remain unto the Surviver of them and to his Heirs and assigns for ever, but in Case both of my last named Sons should dye under the age of twenty one years not then haveing Lawfull Issue, that then all the Land and meadow that is herein given unto them shall be equilly Divided amongst my surviving Sons and amongst their Heirs and assigns for ever) Item I will and bequeath unto my Sons Cornell Smith, Jacob Smith and Amos Smith my lott of Salt meadow and upland lying on Coes Neck that I purchased of Elijah Bedel excepting a Small House thereon to be equally Divided amongst them shear and Shear alike, and Remain unto them in Severalty and to their Heirs and assigns for ever, but if either of them should Dye under the age of twenty one years not then haveing Lawfull Issue, that then the Deceased Sons part shall be Equilly Divided between the survivers of them and between their Heirs and assigns for ever) Item I will and bequeath unto my Sons Cornell Smith and Amos Smith all the Remainder of the wood Land not above disposed of that I bought of Samuel Clowes and James Wood as aforesaid Equilly to be Divided between them and Between their Heirs and assigns for ever and my Will is that if my said Daughter Susannah should dye before she shall come to be Eighteen years of Age or Day of Marriage, that then the said Sixty pounds in Money given unto her shall be divided between my said wife and my Daughter Mary Rainer to their own Disposall and whereas I have given to my Wife the sum of Thirty pounds in Money as is above mentioned, therefore My Will is that she shall have the Sum of Thirty pounds More in Money out of My Moveable Estate and to be at her own Disposall, and further my Will is that all the Remainder of my moveable Estate not above disposed of shall be Divided Equill amongst my said Wife and my two Daughters Mary Rainer and Susannah Smith shear and Shear alike and to their own Disposall. Lastly I do hereby ordain Constitute and appoint my loveing Wife Mercy Smith and my trusty Friends Uriah Bedel and Richard Matthews both of the Township of Hempsted to be the Executors of this My last Will and Testament, giveing them or the Survivers or Survivor of them full power and Authority to Execute the same and every Article herein Contained. In Witness hereunto the said Cornel Smith hath sett to his hand and fixed his Seal the year and Day above Written.—

                                                                                                                                                Cornel Smith  X  his Mark                (seal)

Signed Sealed pronounced and Declared by the said Cornel Smith to be his last Will and Testament in the presence of us who subscribed to the same as Witnesses in his presence and in the presence of Each other.

Hannah Whaley X her Mark

Moses Cornelius

Richard Ellison

 

Probated on 28 July 1781, and proved by Richard Ellison of Hempstead, yeoman, one of the witnesses. Letters of Administration granted to Marsey Smith, Uriah Bedel, and Richard Matthews, the Executrix and Executors, on 1 Aug. 1781.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from New York County Probate, Vol. 34, p. 320-324, copied from original Liber 34, p. 257-260.

 

 

Will of Daniel Smith of Jamaica, Queens County, Province of New York (1753) *

In the Name of God Amen I Daniel Smith of Jamaica in Queens County in the Province of New York Yeoman being arrived to the ninetieth year of my age and tho’ Labouring under the Infirmities of such an advanced age yet thanks be to Almighty God I am at this time in Good health of Body and of sound mind memory and understanding but Knowing that according to the Course of Nature I have but a short time to continue in this Transitory Life do make this my Last Will and Testament in the manner and form following Viz: principally and first of all I give and bequeath my Immortal Soul unto God who gave it my Body I recommend to the Earth from whence it was taken to be decently interred at the discretion of my Executors hereinafter named & appointed and as touching such Worldly Estate with which God has blessed me in this Life I give Will devise bequeath and dispose thereof in the following manner and form Viz: First I give and bequeath unto my Executors the sum of sixty pounds first of all to be taken out of my Estate wherewith (if sufficient) to pay and satisfye all my Just debts and funeral expences as also for paying satisfying and contenting my said Executors and either of them for all their time trouble and expences which they or either of them shall be at or put unto at any time or times hereafter in or about providing for my funeral proving my Will taken Inventory of and appraising and selling such part of my Estate (as shall hereinafter directed to be sold) collecting in my debts paying out Legacys and all and every other the Incidental and accidental charges that shall or may be any ways or means hereafter accrue in or about the executing of this my Last Will and Testament and the over pluss of the said sixty pounds if any there be after paying my debts Funeral and all and singular other charges and expences as abovesaid shall be disposed of as I shall herein after direct but in case the said sixty pounds do fall short of answering the ends & purposes aforesaid then my Will is that such deficiency shall be made good to my Executors out of such other part of my Estate as I shall herinafter direct & order  I give and bequeath unto Abigail my well beloved Wife her heirs Executors & assigns for ever the sum of two hundred and ten pounds current money of New York to be paid to her some or some one or other of her aforesaid within one year after my decease. Item I also give unto my said wife the one half of my household Goods and my Negro Girl Slave named Hannah to be at her own absolute disposal  Item I further give unto my said Wife the sole use and benefit of my now dwelling house and small Lott of Land & premises where I now live in Jamaica aforesaid & the use also of the other half of my house hold goods for so long a time as she shall continue my Widow & no longer all which said Gifts so made unto her my said Wife as aforesaid shall be in Lieu (& in full) of her right and Title of Dower of in to or out of my Estate  Item I give unto my Sister Deborah Wood and to her heirs Executors & Assigns for ever the sum of twenty pounds and to be paid next after my said Wife and to my Brother Samuel Smith his heirs and assigns the sum of forty pounds (to be paid next after my said Sister Deborah aforesaid) and all my wearing apparell both linnen & Woolen  Item I give will and bequeath unto Elias Bayles Increase Carpenter & Nehemiah Smith Deacons & Elders of the English presbyterian Church or Congregation in & of Jamaica aforesaid and to their Successors Deacons & Elders which shall at all times hereafter be chosen in & for the said Church & Congregation the sum of forty pounds New York money by them or the Major part of them to but put out to Interest and the said interest Yearly arising by or from the said Forty pounds to remaine continue abid & be to the said Deacons & Elders & their successors by them or the Major part of them to be yearly applyed to the only use benefit and behoof of the Reverend Mr David Bostwick the present Minister of the said Church or Congregation and to his successors in the Ministry (being presbyterians in all succeeding ages in order to the upholding & maintaining of a standing Ministry in the said Church & Congregation for ever and my Will is that the said forty pounds be paid to the said Deacons or Elders or to some of them or their successors as soon as conveniently may be after paying my Brother Samuel aforesaid  Item I give unto Benjamin Hinchman of Jamaica aforesaid the sum of twenty Shillings wherewith to purchase a suitable Book for the use of the said Congregation  Item I give to my Cousin John Wilkins twenty pounds to him and his heirs for ever  Item I give to my Cousin Elizabeth Smith one of the daughters of my Brother John Smith deceased and to her heirs the sum of ten pounds, and to my Cousin Jemima Mox (now a Widow another of the daughters of my said Brother John Smith) & to her heirs I give the sum of twenty pounds  Item I give to my Cousin John Smith (one of the Sons of my Brother John aforesaid) of New Jersey the sum of five Shillings and to his Brother Edward Smith I give the sum of ten pounds. Item I give to my Cousin Samuel Smith of Huntington (the Son of my Brother Amos Smith deceased for the sole use of his Son Daniel Smith & his heirs the sum of forty pounds  Item I give to my Cousin Daniel Smith Wood (Son of my Cousin & brother in Law John Wood deceased the sum of twenty pounds. Item I give unto Amos Smith Son of my Cousin Solomon Smith the sum of twenty pounds and to my Cousin John Smith (Son of my Cousin Daniel Smith Sadler) I give the sum of twenty pounds and my Will is that the three last mentioned Legacys shall remain in the hands of my Executors untill they the said Legatees namely Daniel Smith Wood  Amos Smith & John Smith do severally arrive to Lawfull age and then to be paid to them respectively with such Interest as my Executors can conveniently raise thereby  Item I give & bequeath unto my Executors the sum of nine pounds fifteen Shillings to be by them paid out to Martha Smith (the Wife of my Cousin Solomon Smith) for the support of her self & her Children) as they my said Executors see necessary and Requisite. Item it is my Will and I do order that in case my Estate personal (exclusive of the half of my household Goods herein given to my Wife during her Widowhood) should not hold out to pay all the Legacys above mentioned to be paid in money that then the last mentioned Legatees beginning with Daniel Smith Wood & ending with Martha Smith being ten in number the said ten Legatees shall have no demands upon my Executors or either of them for the full of any or either of their respective Legacys until such time as that my dwelling house Lands and premisses abovementioned with the last mentioned half of my houshold goods to be sold and the moneys ariseing thereby be collected in any thing to the contrary thereof herein contained not witstanding  Item my will is and I do order that in some convenient time after my said Wife shall cease to be my Widow (or sooner by her consent) that my Executors or either of them shall sell or may sell & dispose of my dwelling House Land & premises aforesaid together with all and & Singular other Lands rights of Lands & Hereditaments which doth shall or may of right belong unto me in any part of the World, and I do hereby Authorize & impower my said Executors & either of them to make Sale thereof accordingly at publick Vendue or otherwise at their discretion and I further Impower them & either of them in like manner to sell & dispose of the one half of my houshold Goods (when my said Wifes right thereto (according to this my Last Will and Testament the true intent and meaning thereof) shall cease) and all other my moveable Effects not herein before given or otherwise disposed of and my Will is that the moneys arising by or from such Sale as aforesaid with the over pluss of the sixty pounds first mentioned (if any be after the purposes thereof are answered) and the rest remainder & residue of my Estate shall be disposed of as followeth Vizt: in the first place if the said sixty pounds shall be insufficient for answering the purposes for which it is intended then my will is that whatever is deficient to answer the said purposes shall first be deducted out of the moneys given to the said ten Legatees in equal proportion to their several Legacys before herein mentioned and all the overpluss & remainder of the moneys belonging to my Estate I give and bequeath the same unto all and every the Legatees within mentioned (my Wife and my Cousin John Smith of New Jersey only excepted) respectively in proportion to the several sums of money herein before on the other side to them & either of them particularly given or bequeathed, not excluding the Deacons or elders or any other (excepting my wife & Cousin above excepted) and Lastly I do nominate & appoint my trusty and wellbeloved friend & Cousin Benjamin Hinchman abovenamed and my trusty and well beloved Friend and Neighbour Thomas Read of Jamaica aforesaid Sadler & either of them to be the Executors of this my Last Will and Testament hereby Revoking & makeing null & void all former and other Wills & Testament by me heretofore made allowing and acknowledging this & no other to be my Last Will and Testament  In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand & Seal this fourteenth day of July in the year of our Lord Christ one thousand seven hundred and fifty three.

                                                                                                                                                Daniel Smith                     (seal)

Signed Sealed published and declared (the words (or either of them) in the last line on the other side & the word (ten) in the tenth line on this side being first interlined) by the above named Daniel Smith the Testator as and for his Last will & Testament in the presence of us who have hereunto subscribed our Names as Witnesses thereto in the presence of the said Testator and in the presence of each other

James Cebra

Jacob Ogden

John Thurston Jur.

 

Probated on 21 Oct. 1754, and proved by Jacob Ogden and John Thurston Junr., two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration granted to Benjamin Hinchman and Thomas Read, the Executors, on 24 Oct. 1754.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from New York County Probate, Vol. 19, p. 145-149, copied from original Liber 19, p. 136-141.

 

 

Will of Jacob Smith of Marshfield, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1842) *

In the name of God Amen, I Jacob Smith of Marshfield in the County of Plymouth and Commonwealth of Massachusetts do ordain the following to be my last will and testament, that is to say; After the payment of my funeral charges and all my just debts,—

        First. I give and bequeath to my beloved wife Deborah Smith Twenty five shares of the capital stock of the Merchants insurance Co.– in Boston, the income of which to go to her use and benefit during the period of her natural, and at her decease the said twenty five shares or the proceeds thereof shall then be equally divided among all my Children that shall then be living. And I further will and direct that my said wife shall have at all times a Comfortable Home in the house I now occupy in said Marshfield, or in my house in Duxbury that I lately occupied, either of them at her option, with liberty also to change from one to the other, and so back again as often as she shall determine, And I further direct that my said Wife shall be entitled to all the Beds, Bedding and household furniture that I may leave, and at her decease it shall then be equally divided between my Two sons–viz–Ezra Smith and William Maxim Smith– And in Order to prevent any mistake of my meaning of a “Comfortable Home” above mentioned my meaning is that my said wife shall have as much room in either of the houses above mentioned as she shall think her Comfort requires, with board and lodging free from any charge to her, and in no event is she to be deprived of a Comfortable home

        Also. I give and bequeath to my son Jacob Smith Jr– my Farm in the Town of Westford in the County of Middlesex and State of Massachusetts, together with the Dwelling house and all other buildings thereon, to have and to hold the same during the period of his natural life, And at his decease it shall be held by his Widow during the period of her natural life, if she Continue so long his widow, & at her decease, or if she marry again, then in either of those Cases the same shall be equally divided, or the proceeds thereof, among all his children, that shall then be living, or if he leave no widow then in that Case it shall be so divided.

        Also I give and bequeath to my daughter Caroline Hewett the wife of Charles Hewett thirteen shares in the Capital Stock of the Eagle Bank Boston to have the income for her own use and benefit during the period of her Natural life, the principal of which, and the proceeds thereof, at her decease shall then be divided equally among all her children that shall then be living.

        Also. I give and bequeath to my Daughter Martha Stetson, the wife of Samuel Stetson, the Dwelling house I own in Duxbury, known by the name of the “Parish House” and now occupied by Doct. John Porter, the lot of land on which it stands, together with all the other buildings thereon to have and to hold the same during the period of her natural life, and at her decease, it shall then be divided equally, or the proceeds thereof, among all her Children that shall then be living.

        Also. I give and bequeath to my Son Ezra Smith my homestead Farm on which I now dwell together with the Dwelling House and all other buildings thereon situated in Marshfield aforesaid reserving to my said the right of home as herein before mentioned, to have & to hold the same during the Period of his natural life, and at his decease it shall then be held by his widow on the same terms so long as she shall remain his widow, & at her decease the same shall be equally divided, or the proceeds thereof among all his lawful children that shall then be living and if he leave neither widow or children, then in that Case it shall be equally divided, or the proceeds thereof among all my Children that shall be living at the time of his decease. – I give and bequeath also, out outright to my said son Ezra all the live stock, tools, and farming utensels that remain on said farm at my decease, and I give him also two Lots of wood land lying in Duxbury Containing about Ten Acres, being the same I purchased of Calvin Partridge and Samuel Stetson as the Deeds will shew.

        Also. I give and bequeath to my son William Maxim Smith the Farm I own in Duxbury which I lately occupied, together with the Dwelling House and all other buildings thereon, reserving to my said Wife a home as herein before mentioned, to have and to hold the same during the period of his natural life, and at his decease it shall be held by his widow on the same terms, and at her decease it shall then be equally divided, or the proceeds thereof among all his lawful Children, but if he leave neither widow or children then in that Case it shall at his decease be equally divided, or the proceeds thereof among all my children that shall then be living — I give him also Outright, two lots of wood Land lying in Duxbury Containing About Twelve Acres, being the same I purchased of Benj. Prior and P. & S. Sprague and also another lot of Land in the State of Maine, Conveyed to me by the Massachusetts Land Agent, reference being had to the Deeds of the three parcels of Land will shew.

        Also I give and bequeath to my Daughter Persis P. Smith Three thousand dollars to be invested in good mortgages, or other good stock, to have and to hold the income of which for her use and support during the period of her natural life, and at her decease the principal shall then be divided equally among all her children that shall then be living, but if she leave no children, then in that Case it shall be equally divided among all my children that shall then be living.

        Also I hereby constitute and appoint Geo. P. Richardson of Duxbury aforesaid Executor of this my last Will.

        In witness whereof (revoking all others and former wills heretofore made by me) I have hereunto set my hand & seal this Tenth day of February in the year of Our Lord One thousand Eight hundred and forty two.

                                                                                                                                                Jacob Smith                                       (seal)

Signed, sealed and declared by the said Jacob Smith to be his last will and testament in presence of us who in his presence and of each other have subscribed our names as Witnesses.

                                                                                                                                                George Winsor Jr.

                                                                                                                                                Eden Wadsworth

                                                                                                                                                Martin Waterman

 

Presented for probate on the last Tuesday of Aug. 1844 by George P. Richardson, the Executor therein named, and proved by George Winsor Jr., one of the witnesses whose names are subscribed thereto. Letters Testamentary were granted to George P. Richardson, the Executor.

 

George P. Richardson, of Duxbury, was appointed as Executor of the last Will and Testament of Jacob Smith, late of Duxbury, on 27 Aug. 1844, with Deborah Smith and Ezra Smith, of Marshfield, as sureties.

George Winsor Jun., Joseph F. Wadsworth and Dura Wadsworth, all of Duxbury, were appointed to appraise the estate of Jacob Smith, late of Marshfield, on 27 Aug. 1844.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Jacob Smith, late of Marshfield, was dated 13 Sept. 1845 [sic], his real estate totaled $12,414, including his homestead farm in Marshfield valued at $4200, the Daniel Bradford’s place in Duxbury valued at $3100, the house and lot occupied by Sam Stetson in Duxbury valued at $1800, and the farm situated in Westford now occupied by Jacob Smith valued at $3000, and his personal estate totaled $9667.60. George P. Richardson, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 27 Sept. 1844.

 

Jacob Smith, of Westford, County of Middlesex, was granted administration with the will annexed of the estate of Jacob Smith, late of Marshfield, on 11 Nov. 1872, George P. Richard, the appointed executor having since died without completing the administration, with Ezra Smith, of Marshfield, and Hambleton E. Smith, of Duxbury, as sureties.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 86, p. 374-377, from FHL microfilm #0555637, Vol. 2H, p. 12, Vol. 87, p. 399, and Vol. 120, p. 404.

 

 

Will of Jeremiah Smith of Herricks, Hempstead, Queens County, Nassau Island, Province of New York (1725) *

In the Name of God Amen. These presents Witnesseth that I Jeremiah Smith of Herricks in the Bounds of of Hempstead in Queens County on Nashau Island in the Province of New York being this twenty third day of October in the year of our Lord One thousand Seven hundred & twenty & five Antient in years but am through God prety well in Health & my memory and understanding Good and Sound & Calling to mind the uncertainty of this Life & that it is appoynted once for all men to Dye am willing to Settle my Affairs in this Life & to dispose of my outward Estate wherewith it hath pleased God to Bless me in this Life withall and doe make and appoynt this to be my Last Will and Testament Revoaking all and all manner of former & other Wills Testament & Bequests by me before this time made Ratifying & allowing this and no other to be my Last Will and Testament in ye first Place I will and Bequeath my Immortall Soull into the hands of Almighty God in full and Sure hopes of Eternall Life through the merrits Death and Passion of my Dear Lord & Saviour Jesus Christ and my Body to the Earth from whence it was taken to be decently Buried at the discretion of my Executors hereafter named nothing doubting but at the generall Resurrection to receive the same again by the mighty power of God & touching my Worldly Estate I give Bequeath & dispose of the Same in the following manner & form in the first place I will that all my Just debts & Funeral Charges Shall be first paid out of my moveable Estate before any division be made thereof I will & Bequeath unto my Dearly beloved Wife Ann Smith my Largest Room in my dwelling House & what Celler Room she Shall have occasion of & the garden & the Equall third part of the Aples and Fruit that shall from year to year & every year grow in my Orchard all which Dwelling house Cellar Room Garden and the third part of the Fruit Yearly growing in my Orchard my wife shall have Possess and Enjoy all the time of Her Widdowhood while She remains my Widdow and no Longer. I also Will and Bequeath unto my Beloved Wife Ann Smith the Equall Moity or half part of all my moveable Estate after my depts & Funeral Chararges & Legesies in this my Will mentioned is first paid and Shee Shall have the Lyberty to take her choice I also will & Bequeath unto my Wife aforesaid her Dyet & Washing & Lodging to be given her by my two youngest Sons Thomas Smith and James Smith for and durring the time that Shee Remains my Widdow and in Case my Widdow & my Sons Thomas Smith & James Smith cannot agree to dwell together then my two Sons aforesaid Shall pay unto my wife aforesaid durring her Widdowhood in Leiu of her third part of my Lands five pounds pounds in Current Money of New York yearly & every year So Long as She Shall & doth remain my Widdow and no Longer and my two Sons Thomas and James Shall be (from the time of their yearly paying of the five pounds as aforesaid) acquited and discharged from finding her dyet & washing & Lodging  I will unto my Eldest Son Jeremiah Smith five Shillings over & above what I have already given to him by deeds under my hand & Seal I will & Bequeath unto my Son John Smith five Shillings over & above what I have given to Him by a deed under my hand & Seall. I will and Bequeath unto my Son Richard Smith five Shillings over and above what I have already given to him by a deed under my Hand & Seall  Item I will & Bequeath unto my two Grand Daughters Elizabeth & Ann Cornell the two daughters of my Eldest daughter Hannah Cornell deceased twenty Shillings Currant money of New York to be Equally devided between them in Lieu of the Last part of their Mothers Portion. I will and Bequeath unto my two grand daughters Elizabeth & Hannah Cornell the daughters of my Secund daughter Elizabeth Cornell twenty Shillings currant money of New York to be Equally divided between them in Lieu of the Last part of their Mothers Portion  I will and Bequeath unto my two youngest daughters Ruth Willsee and Ann Smith forty Shillings that it to say twenty Shillings Each in Lieu of the Last part of their Portions having already given to them what I well could Spare  I will and Bequeath unto my Son James Smith and to his Heirs & Assignes forever Seven Acres of Land Lying Northward of my Orchard be it more or Less which I have already given him my Deed for. I will and Bequeath unto my Son Thomas Smith and to his Heirs & Assignes forever my dwelling house and my Orchard Containing about four Acres of Land & as much more out of my other Lands where it may be Convenient to be as much Land as my Son James’s Seven acre peice is all for him my son Thomas Smith his Heirs & assignes to Enjoy immediately after my deceas except my wifes Dowry before Bequeathed to Her: I will and Bequeath unto my Sons Thomas Smith and James Smith and to their Heirs and assignes forever all the remainder of my Lands & Rights of Lands both devided & undevided in the Township of Hemsted & all my Salt & Fresh Meadows to be Equally devided between them & in Case my Son Thomas happens to Dye without Lawfull Ishue & hath not disposed by Will or Deed the Land Bequeathed to him then it shall return & be my Sons James Smith & his Heirs & Assigns forever. I will and Bequeath unto my two youngest Sons Thomas & James Smith the Equall half part of my moveable Estate after my Wife hath had her choice to be Equally devided betwixt them  Lastly I hereby Constitute Authorize Ordain & Impower my Beloved Wife Ann Smith & my two youngest Sons Thomas Smith & James Smith to be to be my Executors of this my Last Will and Testament

In Witness whereof I have hereunto Set to my Hand & fixed my Seal the Day and year above written.

                                                                                                                                                Jeremiah Smith                (seal)

Signed Sealed published Pronounced and Declared by the said Jeremiah Smith as his Last Will and Testament in the Presence of us the Subscribers. Memorandum before Signing and Sealing hereof I will and Bequeath unto my wife Ann Smith Lyberty to Cut her Firewood on my Land that I have given to my two Sons Thomas and James durring her Widdowhood.

Benjamin Seaman Junr.

Joshua Carman

William Willis

 

Probated on 2 Apr. 1726, proved by William Willis and Benjamin Seaman Junr., two of the witnesses, and Letters of Administration granted to Thomas Smith and James Smith, two of the Executors, on 16 Dec. 1726.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from New York County Probate, Vol. 10, p. 365-369, copied from original Liber 10, p. 288-290.

 

 

Will of John Smith of Kings County, Province of New York (1694) *

                In the name of God Amen the ninth day of June in the sixth year of their Majesties Reigne and in the year of Lord one thousand six hundred ninety and four I John Smith of the ferry in Kings County upon the Island Nassau Being health of body and of a perfict and sound memory thanks be to God doe make this my last will and Testament in manner and forme following That is to Say first I bequeath my Soul and Sperritt unto the hands of Almighty God my heavenly father by whom of his meer and only Grace I trust to be Saved and Received into Eternall rest and my body in hopes of a glorious Resurrection I bequeath to the Earth to be decently Buryed with Such charges and in Such place as my Loveing wife Ann Smith shall think good And touching the Disposeall of my mortall Goods and Estate I give and bequeath all the Estate I have now in the world and what shall be found to be mine at my Decease unto her my said Loveing wife Ann Smith Whether the same be reall or personall of whatt nature or Kind soever moveable or immoveable To have and to hold the said Estate reall and personall moveable and immoveable unto her the said Ann Smith my wife her heirs and Assignes forever. Item I make and ordain my said Loveing wife Ann Smith my Sole Executrix of this my Last will and Testament Desireing her to See my Debts and funerall Expences honestly Satisfyed unto of my said Estate Revoaking and by these presents making void and of none Effect all forme Bequeath wills and Deeds of Gifts heretofore by me Signed Sealed or Delivered published and declared and doe now in the presence of these Wittnesses hereunder written declare this and none other to be my Absolute Last will and Testament  In Wittness Whereof I have hereunto Sett my hand and Seal the Day and year First above written

David Jamison D. Secry.

 

Probated on 12 Feb. 1697/8, and Letters of Administration granted to Ann Smith, the Executrix.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from New York County Probate, Vol. 5, p. 212-214, copied from original Liber 5, p. 264-266.

 

 

Will of John Smith of Hempstead, Queens County, Province of New York (1695) *

        In the Name of God Amen I John Smith Senr. of hampstead in Queens County yeoman being through gods mercy in perfect health sound memory & good understanding considering ye frailty of humane nature the Certainty of death & ye uncertainty of the time doe make & ordaine this to be Last Will & Testament hereby revoaking & making voyd & null all former & other Wills by me made at any time before ye date of these psents first and principally I bequeath my Immortal Soul unto God who gave to be psented before his throne of mercy Cleansed from its Sins & impurity in & through the merritts of my blessed Saviour & Redeemer the Lord Jesus Christ and my body to the dust from whence it was Taken to be decently & Christian Like interred at the discretion of my Executors hereinafter named there to remaine untill the day of resurrecon and for what Wordly Estate the Lord hath been pleased to bestow upon me I doe dispose as followeth Impr. I give & bequeath unto my well beloved grandsons Richard Smith & Timothy Smith Sons of my Eldest sone John Smith Deced all that my Lott of meadow wasbornes neck in hampstead bounded on ye east by Timothy halsted his meadow on the south by the Creek on the West by a Creek & on the north by Nathaniell Pearshall also a Lott of Land In the newfield adjoyning to my sone John & Samuel Emery on the East To have & to hold ye sd parcells of Land & meadow to them the sd Richard & Timothy their heirs & assigns to ye use & behoofe of them the Said Richard & Timothy their heirs & assigns as Tennants in comon in Equall proportion for ever without any pretence of survivorshipe or Joyntenancy allways Provided & it is my Will & the true intent & meaning of this devise that in case the sd Richard Smith shall give unto his sd brother Timothy an Equall share of his Fathers Lands & meadows that then and in such case the above granted Lands & meadows to be to the sd Richard & Timothy as above Expressed otherwise give the sd Land & meadow with ye appurtenances unto the sd Timothy his heirs & assigns for ever also I give unto my sd grand son Richard Smith forty shillings equivalent to money to be paid by my Executors. 2dly. I give and bequeath unto my well beloved grand daughters Sarah Pine & mary Smith all those three Cows three three yeare old heifers and Two Yeare old Steer two yearlings heifers & Foure Calves delivered into the possession of John Tredwell during my naturall Life as by a Covenant underhand & seale bearing date the 24th day of Aprill 1694 To be equally divided between the sd Sarah Pine & Mary Smith her Sister 3ly. Item I give and unto my well beloved sone Joseph Smith all that my dwelling house & home Lott in the Towne with the appurtenances (my halfe the Barne only excepted) Twelve acres of meadow as Laid out at Rockaway thirteen acres of meadow more or Less upon Hickeses neck ten acres of meadow more or Less upon Cow neck withall the upland belonging to the sd parcells of meadow also three acres of Land more or less in ye Holly a peice of Land in the old Feild and a peice of Land at the Wind mill adjoyning to armitages To have and to hold the sd househome Land parcells of Land & meadow with the appurtenances to him the sd Joseph Smith his heirs & assigns for ever and I doe further give and bequeath unto my sd son Joseph to the value of Twenty Pounds Fifteen Shillings in Cattle which are already in his Posession 4ly. Item I give and bequeath unto my well beloved son Jonathan Smith all that my halfe of the Barne built between him & myself Twelve acres of meadow at Rockway five acres of meadow in ye Indian Land upon Rockway aforesaid wth. the upland belonging unto the sd Parcells of meadow To have and to hold to him the said Jonathan Smith his heires & assigns to the only Proper use benifitt & behoofe of him the sd Jonathan Smith his heirs & assigns forever also I give & bequeath unto my sd sone Jonathan Smith all those Cattle already in his Possession apprized at Twenty Pound fourteen shillings 5ly. I give & bequeath unto my well beloved daughter Mary Denton the Wife of Samuell Denton those Cattle now in her Possession Vallued at Twenty Pounds fifteen Shillings money 6ly. Item I give and bequeath unto my Well beloved grand Children by my daughter Martha Chappell deced to witt Anne & Mary Ruchmore and William & Stephen Chappell those Cattle Late in the Possession of their sd mother Deced Valued at Twenty Pounds Fifteen Shillings to be Equally divided among them 7ly. Item I give & Bequeath unto my well beloved daughter Hannah the Wife of John Tredwell those cattle now in her Possession apprized at Twenty Pounds fifteen shillings & my Will is that my sd daughter shall & may dispose of the same or any other Legacy by this my Last Will give unto her as shee Shall see cause without the Consent or approbacon of her husband 8ly. Item and for the Rest of my Estate houses Tenements Land & meadows not as yet devised I give and bequeath unto my two Sones Joseph & Jonathan their heires & assignes for Ever to be Equally divided between them without any pretence of survivorshipe or Joyntenancy 9ly. Item and for the Rest of my goods Chattles & Creditts not yet disposed of after my Just debts first being Paid I give and bequeath as followeth that is to say one Equall third part to my daughter Mary denton one Equall third part to my Daughter Hannah Tredwell and the other third Part to my daughter Martha Chappell deceased her four youngest Children to witt anne and mary Ruchmore and William & Stephen Chappell to be Equally divided amongst them 9ly. I doe hereby Constitute and appoynt my well beloved Children Joseph Smith Jonathan Smith Mary Denton and Hannah Tredwell to be Executors of this my Last Will & Testament to Pay & receive all such Debts as are either owing to me or by me owing at the time of my decease Also to Pay & deliver all such Legacys as are not allready in the Possession of the Severall Legatees as are by this my Last Will and Testament bequeathed In Testimony whereof I have hereunto subscribed my name and affixed my Seale at Hempstead aforesaid the 10th day of May 1695 in the Presence of those Witnesses hereunto subscribed being thereunto Especially Called

                                                                                                                                       his

                                                                                                                                John  l  Smith                      (seal)

William Vesey                                                                                                            mark

John Tredwell

Phebe Patt

Andrew Gibb

 

Probated on 3 Apr. 1706, and letters of Administration granted to Hannah Tredwell, one of the Executors, with the power being reserved to Joseph Smith, Jonathan Smith, and Mary Denton, the other Executors.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from New York County Probate, Vol. 7, p. 306-309, copied from original Liber 7, p. 238-240.

 

 

Will of John Smith of Jamaica, Queens County, Province of New York (1722) *

In the Name of God Amen I John Smith of Jamaica in Queens County on Nassau Island and in the Colony of New York Yeoman being Very sick but being at this present sound of Mind and understanding and of perfect Memory Blessed be God but Not knowing how soon my change may come do make this my Last Will and Testament hereby Revoking and Annulling all former Wills Made or Delivered by word or writing before the date hereof and this only to stand as my Last Will and Testament Imprimis I Commit and Bequeath my Soul Immortall to God who gave it and my Body made as the Dust Corruptible and Mortall and whensoever it shall please the Lord to Call me out of this life to be Decently Buried in hopes of a Glorious Resurrection and Eternal life through Jesus Christ My only Redeemer Lord and Saviour that so being perfectly Justified And Sanctifyed by his free Grace I may Glorifie both in Soul and Body for ever And an Everlasting Inheritance in Heaven Among them that are Sanctified by the Sprit of the Lord Amen MOREOVER My Goods and Worldly Estate that I shall Dye possessed of I Will Dispose and Settle as followeth  All Just and Due Debts with Funeral Charges being first duely and Honnestly paid by my Executrix and Executors hereafter Named Item I Will and Bequeath all my personal Estate in Linnen Stock and Moveables that shall remain after Debts and Funeral Charges being paid unto my Dear and Loving Wife Ruth Smith so long as she shall Remain my Widow and the use and Benefit of my Houses and Barn with all the Home Lott and all the Land Lying on the South side of the way over against My House and My Meadow lying at the heither East Neck so long as she shall Remain My Widow or untill My Son John shall come to the Age of Twenty One Years Item I Will and Bequeath unto my Loving Son John Smith when he shall come to the Age of Twenty one Years to him his heirs and Assigns forever hereby Obligeing my Son to take the whole care for to Maintain my Wife so long as she shall remain my Widow but if my Wife shall hapen to Marry then the Two Thirds of My Moveable Estate to be Divided Equally between all my Children and the other Third to my wife forever Item I Will and Bequeath unto my four Children Judah Nathaniel William and Thomas my Two Lotts of Land lying over the Bogs and all my land lying between the Mill path and the Mitter Neck and the Meadow lying on the Further east which I had of William Jones to be Equally Divided between them to them their heirs and Assigns forever Item My Will is that if any of my Children should Dye before they come to the Age of Twenty one Years of age or Not having any Issue that then these parts to be Equally Divided between all my Children to them their heirs and Assigns forever Lastly I do hereby Nominate and Appoint Constitute and Make my Dear and Loving Wife And Loving Brothers Nicholas Everitt and Henry Ludlam Joint Executrix and Executors of this my Last Will and Testament Authorizing And Impowering them to do All and every thing Necessary to the due Execution of the premises Requesting them to see that this my last Will and Testament be done as near as may be according to the mind of the Testator In Witness and Confirmation whereof I have hereunto Set My hand and affixed my Seal this Eighth Day of January Annoq 1721/2

                                                                                                                                                John Smith                         (seal)

Signed and Sealed and Delivered in the presence of us

Saml Smith

James Lewis

Nehemiah Smith

 

Probated on 18 Apr. 1722, and Letters of Administration granted to Ruth Smith, Nicholas Everitt and Henry Ludlam, the Executrix and Executors, on 9 May 1722.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from New York County Probate, Vol. 9, p. 357-359, copied from original Liber 9, p. 299-300.

 

 

Will of John Smith of Hempstead, Queens County, Province of New York (1732) *

                The Will of Jn Smith pved before Secry Clarke

                                                                                                In the name of God Amen The twelfth day of July in the Year of our Lord Seventeen hundred and thirty two, I John Smith of Hempsted being indisposed but of perfect mind and memory thanks be Given to Almighty God therefore & calling into mind the Mortality of my body, And knowing that it is appointed for all Men once to dye do make and Ordain this my Last Will and Testament that is to say principally and First of all I Give & recommend my Soul into the mercifull hands of God that Gave it And my Body to the Earth to be buried at the Discretion of Executors hereafter named nothing doubting but at the General Resurrection I shall receive the Same again by the mighty power of God, And as touching my worldly Estate wherewith it hath pleased God to bless me in this Life, I Give Devise & bequeath as followeth, besides what I have already Given by Sundry Deeds as by the Same may free appear, Imprimis my will and Desire is And I do order that all my debts Justly due to any person or persons be well truly and faithfully Paid in Some convenient time after my Decease which said Debts I do order my Son Benjamin Smith to pay and Discharge, Item I Give and Bequeath unto my three Sons Elias Benjamin & Silas And to Each of them their heirs And Assigns for ever, the Sum of five Shillings New York Money besides what I have Already Given & ordered them by Conveyance & Deeds of Gifts Item I Give & bequeath unto my well Beloved wife Isabell one third part of my moveable Estate, And my dwelling house during her natural Life, And two Cows & my own Riding Mare, And also my Negro Man called London During her Natural Life And after her Decease I Give and bequeath the Said Negro to my Son Amos his heirs And Assigns Item I give and bequeath the remainder of my moveable Estate after the one third of Said Estate paid to my wife unto my Son Amos And my four Daughters Hannah, Abigail, Phebe, and Elizabeth to be Equally Devided Amongst them Share and Share alike to them their heirs And Assigns, Lastly I do nominate Constitute and appoint Abel Smith Robert Sutton And my Son Benjamin Smith to be the Executors of this My Last Will And Testament Disannulling and Revoking all former Wills be me at any time Made Ratifying And Confirming this & no other to be my Last will and Testament, In Testimony whereof I the Said John Smith have hereunto Set my hand And Seal the day and Year first above written

                                                                                                John Smith                            (seal)

Signed Sealed published pronounced & declared by the Said John Smith as his Last will & Testament in the presence of us                Charles Hooless &c

 

Letters of Administration granted to Abel Smith, Robert Sutton, and Benjamin Smith, the Executors, on 3 Apr. 1733.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from New York County Probate, Vol. 11, p. 488-489, copied from original Liber 11, p. 498-499.

 

 

Will of John Smith of Jamaica, Queens County, Province of New York (1750) *

        In the Name of God Amen I John Smith of Jamaica in Queens County in the province of New York Taylor being very sick and weak in Body but thanks be to God of sound mind and memory but expecting speedily to pass out of time into eternity do make and ordain this my last Will and Testament in manner and form following – First I give and bequeath my soul immortal unto God who gave it my Body to the Earth from whence it came to be decently interred in a Christian like manner at the discretion of my Executors hereinafter named and as to my worldly estate I give devise and dispose thereof in the following manner – Item – My will is and I do order that first of all my just debts and funeral charges all be duely paid and satisfied by my Executors in some convenient time after my decease out of such part of my Estate as is hereinafter directed  Item It is my Will and I do order that the dwelling house and Land and other the premises (excepting the Meadow) which I lately purchased of John Wood shall be sold by my Executors at Publick Vendue or otherwise as to them shall seem best and I hereby authorize and impower them to make sale thereof accordingly and to give good sufficient deed or deeds or other lawfull Instruments of writing to the buyer or buyers and their heirs and assigns therefore and the moneys arising by such sale I order to go towards the discharge and payment of my debts which if it should fall short my will is that the remainder shall be afraid out of my moveable Estate and I do order and impower my Executors to sell so much thereof as to answer the purposes aforesaid – Item – My will is as I am otherwise obliged by my Fathers Will that my mother Ruth Smith shall have her maintenance out of my Estate during her widowhood – Item – I Give and bequeath unto Elizabeth my dearly beloved Wife the whole and sole use benefit and profitts of all and singular my real and personal Estate not otherwise disposed of during her widowhood for her own maintenance and for the maintenance of my Children in their nonage I give her also two Cowes my best bed and furniture my best Cupboard Six chairs and twenty pounds in Money to be at her own disposal all which shall be in lieu of her dower  Item I give and devise unto my son John and to his heirs heirs and assigns forever all and singular my dwelling house Lands and hereditaments where I now live and the Meadow which I bought of John Wood and all other my Lands wheresoever the same are or may be as also my great Mare and her Mare Colt of two years Old and also my Waggon plough and harrow and other farming utensils he paying out the following Legacies to wit Twenty pounds to my daughter Millicent twenty pounds to my daughter Hannah and Fifty pounds to my son Howell to be paid to them respectively as they arrive to lawfull age or Marry which shall happen first and as to the rest remainder and residue of my moveable Estate I give and bequeath the same unto My daughters Millecent and Hannah and to my son Howell above named to be equally divided betwixt them, Lastly I do hereby nominate and appoint my dearly beloved wife Elizabeth aforesaid and my trusty and and well beloved friend Robert Howell of Jamaica aforesaid to be the Executors of this my last will and testament and I do allow this and no other to be my last will and Testament.

        In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this twenty eighth day of March in the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and fifty

                                                                                                                                                John Smith                         (seal)

Signed, sealed, published declared and delivered in the presence of us his chosen witnesses

Thos. Colgan

Thomas Smith

Benja. Hinchman

 

Probated on 3 Apr. 1750, and proved by Thomas Colgan, Thomas Smith, and Benjamin Hinchman, the witnesses. Letters of Administration granted to Elizabeth Smith and Robert Howell, the Executors, on 6 Apr. 1750.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from New York County Probate, Vol. 17, p. 99-101, copied from original Liber 17, p. 101-103.

 

 

Will of John Smith of Herricks, Hempstead, Queens County, Province of New York (1761) *

        In the Name of God Amen the twenty seventh day of Jenuary in the year of our Lord Christ seventeen hundred and sixty one I John Smith of Herricks in the Township of Hempstead in Queens County in the Province of New York Yeoman being sick and weak in Body but of perfect mind and sound memory Do make and ordain this my last Will and Testament  Imprimis I do order that my Body be buryed in a Christian like and decent maner at the discretion of my Executors herein after named and that they pay all my just Debts and funeral Charges  Item I give and bequeath unto my beloved Wife Susanna all that part of my Household Goods which I had with her that belonged unto her before our Marriage and Seventy pounds in Money and I do likewise give her the use of my Negro wench Hannah and one Room in my house as long as she inclines to live there and keep house by herself and after the Death of my said Wife or when she inclines to break up house Keeping then my said Wench Hannah shall belong unto my son Silvanus Smith and it is my Will that whoever of my sons hath the House where I now live shall find my said Wife with fire wood all which Goods Money and preveledge I give unto my said Wife in Lieu of her Dower  Item I give and devise all my Lands unto my two sons Silvanus Smith and Timothy Smith in the following manner (Vizt.) whereas my son Silvanus Smith hath already forty two Acres of Land where he lives in Herricks in Lieu whereof I give and devise unto my son Timothy as much of my Lands here in Herricks as shall be judged equal in Quality to the said forty two acres that my son Silvanus hath which I give to my said son Timothy Smith and to his heirs and assigns for Ever And whereas my son Timothy Smith hath already Eighty Acres of Land near Hempstead Harbour in Leiu whereof I give and devise unto my son Silvanus Smith as much of my Lands near Hempstead Harbour as shall be judged equal in Quality to the said Eighty Acres that my son Timothy Smith hath which I give unto my said son Silvanus Smith and to his heirs and assigns for ever and further I do give and devise unto my said two sons Silvanus Smith and Timothy Smith and to their heirs and Assigns for ever all the remainder of my Lands and Buildings and Meadows and Rigts of Lands and Rights of Meadows that is the one equal half to my son Silvanus Smith and to his heirs and assigns for ever and the other equal half unto my my son Timothy Smith and to his heirs and assigns for ever  Item I give and bequeath unto my Daughter Hannah my Negro Girl Peg and two hundred pound in money to be paid by my Executors within six Months after my Decease  Item I give and bequeath unto my daughter Sarah the Sum of two hundred pounds to be paid by my Executors within six months after my Decease  Item I give and bequeath unto my Daughter Mary the Sum of one hundred and seventy four pound to be paid by my Executors within six months after my Decease  I also give her the father Sum of twenty six pound to be layed out by my Executors in purchasing a silver Tankard for her  I likewise order that the remainder of my household Goods not already bequeath away shall be equally Devided among my Daughters Hannah Sarah and Mary  Item It is my Will that if my two sons pay all the abovementioned Legacies then that they have all my money Bonds & Debts and Negros not given away and all my Creature and moveables without Doors which if they refuse or neglect to do I do empower either one of my Executors to sell all my said Negros and Creatures and moveables without Doors to pay the said Legacies and the over plus if any there be to pay unto my said Sons and if they do not sell for enough to pay the said Leacies and my sons still refuse to pay them I hereby impower either one of my Executors to sell as much of my Land where he shall judge proper as will pay the remainder and I do hereby constitute ordain and appoint my two sons Silvanus Smith and Timothy Smith and my friends Richard Thorn and Isaac Smith Executors of this my last Will and Testament and I do hereby utterly disallow revoke and disanul all and every other former Testaments Wills Legacies and Executors by me in any ways before this time Named Willed and bequeathed ratifying and confirming this and no other to be my last Will and Testament in Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and Seal the Day and Year above Written —

                                                                                                                                                John Smith                         (seal)

Signed Sealed published pronounced and declared by the said John Smith as his last Will and Testament in the presence of us the Subscribers

James Smith

Micah Smith

Samuel Denton

 

Probated on 13 May 1767, and proved by James Smith of the Township of Hempstead Yeoman, and Samuel Denton of said Township Yeoman. Letters of Administration granted to Silvanus Smith, Timothy Smith, and Isaac Smith, three of the Executors, on 16 June 1767.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from New York County Probate, Vol. 25, p. 585-586, copied from original Liber 25, p. 506-507.

 

 

Will of John Smith of Merrock, Hempstead, Queens County, New York (1777) *

Know all Men by these Presence that I John Smith of Merrock in the Township of Hempstead in Queens County and Province of New York Yeoman, being this Eighteenth day of August in the year of our Lord one thousand Seven hundred and seventy seven, well in Health and of sound mind and memory, for which I bless Almighty; and Calling unto mind the mortality of my Body not knowing how soon it my please the Lord to take me away by Death, am desirous to set my House in order and do make and Ordain this my last Will and Testament as followeth.  First of all I recommend my Soul to God who gave it; and my Body I commit to the Earth to be buried in a Christian like and decent manner at the Discretion of my Executors; And as touching such worldly Estate wherewith it hath pleased God to bless in this Life, I give Devise and Dispose of the same in the following Manner and form. I give and Devise to my Son Joseph Smith his Heirs and assigns for Ever my Homstead, that is to say all my Houses Buildings Lands and meadows at Merrock aforesaid; and likewise the Patent Right that lieth in Common within the Township of Hempstead, that derived unto me from my Father Jonathan Smith decd; and do order that my said Son Joseph shall pay to my Loving Wife Rachael and to my three Daughters, namely Phebe, Anne and Elizabeth, the sum of Thirty pounds Current money of new York, which I give unto them to be equally Divided between them. I Likewise give to my said Son Joseph my black bald mare, and one Feather Bed and bedden. It’s my Will and I order that my Family shall have one years Provision out of my moveable Estate after my Decease, It’s further my Will, and I order that my beloved Wife Rachel shall have the use of the one third part of my Homstead, with the Eastermost Dwelling Room in my House, and the two Bed Rooms adjoining said Room as long as she shall remain my Widow.— I give and devise to my three Daughters Phebe Anne and Elizabeth, their Heirs and assigns for Ever, all the Patent Right to the undivided or Common Lands in the said Township of Hempstead That I purchased of Samuel Totton, to be equally divided amongst them, – I give and bequeath to my Loving Wife Rachael the sum of forty three Pounds nine shillings Current money of New York, one Horse and Riding Chair, six sheep, three Cows and Calves, two Feather Beds, beadsteds and Cords, Bolsters and Pillows, Six Cover Lids, Eight Sheets, and Eight Pillow Cases, I give and bequeath to my two Daughters Anne and Elizabeth the sum of Eighty six Pounds Eighteen shillings current money as abovesaid, Twelve sheep, six Cows and Calves, four Feather Beds, Bolsters Pillows, bedsteads and Cords, Twelve Coverlids sixteen sheets And sixteen pillow Cases to be equally divided between them, and further I order and direct my Executors to sell my House and Land on the Plains at the East meadow and the House and Lands I purchased of John Haviland, and also my Lands adjoining the Lands of Josiah Rainer and Isaac Smith, situate in the South woods in the bounds of Hempstead, together with all my moveable Estate of what kind soever, both within Doors and without (except such as is above disposed of ) And the money arising from such sales, together with the money I shall leave at the time of my Decease, And the Money due to me on Bonds Bills or other wise to be disposed of as Follows, first I order that my Just Debts and Funeral Charges be paid and satisfied and after the Charges of Executing and performing this my Will and the above Legacies being paid I give and bequeath the remaining part of said money to my Loving Wife Rachel and my three Daughters Phebe, Anne and Elizabeth to be equally divided between them, and if either of my Daughters shall Die under the Age of Eighteen years and leave no Issue, It’s my will that her part or portion so Deceased, shall be divided amongst my surviving Daughters. And if my said son Joseph shall refuse or neglect to pay the said Thirty pounds as above directed, it is my will and I do order that my Executors shall sell the Lott of salt Meadow that Derived unto me from my Father Jonathan Smith adjoining the south side of the place Called the Island, it being part of my Homstead; and the whole of the money arising from such Sale to be divide equally Amongst my said Wife and three Daughters, all which I have given unto my said Wife Rachel, I have given her in Lieu of her Right of Dower and not other wise.– lastly I do ordain nominate and appoint my loving Wife Rachel, my Son Joseph Smith and my Son in Law Benjamin Smith to be the Executors of this my last Will and Testament, giving them or the Survivers or Surviver of them full power and authority to execute the same and to sell my Lands aforesaid and give Titles for the same, hereby rattifying allowing and Confirming this and no other to be my last Will and Testament.

                                                                                                                                                John Smith                                         (seal)

Signed Sealed published pronounced and Declared by the said John Smith to be his last Will and Testament in the presence of us the subscribers. – Hezekiah Bedell, Hannah Bedell, Mary Batty

 

Presented for probate on 20 May 1778, and proved by Hezekiah Bedell and Mary Batty, the former yeoman and the latter spinster. Letters of Administration were granted to Rachael Smith, Joseph Smith and Benjamin Smith, the Executrix and Executors in the said Will named, on 21 Nov. 1781.

 

*  Transcribed by John A. Maltby from New York County Wills, Vol. 34, p. 456-458, copied from original Libor 34, p. 370-373.

 

 

Will of Jonathan Smith of Hempstead, Queens County, Province of New York (1731) *

In the name of God Amen. I Jonathan Smith of Hempsted in Queens County on the Island of Nassaw with in the Colony of New York Yeoman being Sick in Body Yet of Good Sound & perfect memory praised be Allmighty God therefore Do make & ordain this my present will & Testament Containing therein my Last Will in Manner & form Following that is to Say, First I bequeath my Soul & Spirit into the hands of Almighty God my Heavenly Father By whom of his meer & only Grace I hope to be Saved And received into Eternal Rest through the death of my Saviour And Redeemer Jesus Christ in whose precious blood I set the whole & only hope of my Salvation My wretched body in hope of a Joyfull Resurrection I Committ the Earth to be buryed with Such Charges And in Such place as my Dear Wife Elizabeth Shall think Good, And touching the Distribution of my Mortal Goods I Dispose of the Same as followeth, That is to Say I Will that my Debts which I Shall owe unto Any person or persons at the time of my Decease Either by Law or Conscience be well & truly Contented & paid within Convenient time, I Do further Will and Order that my Grist Mill & the Tenements and Messuages with all the Lands & meadow Ground thereunto Adjoyning, As far as the first Ditch Situate Lying & being at a place Called & known by the Name of Merruck in the Township of Hempsted aforesaid Shall immediatly after my Decease be sold at publick Out Cry or Vendue by my Executor hereafter named Item I Give and bequeath unto Each of my three Daughters that is to Say one hundred pounds Lawfull money of the province of New York aforesaid, unto my Daughter Hannah one hundred pounds of like money unto my Daughter Elizabeth And one hundred pounds Money as aforesaid unto my Daughter Mary to be by them & Each of them Enjoyed, And to their & Each of their heirs Executors Administrators & Assigns forever, And I do further Order will & require That my abovenamed Daughters Hannah & Elizabeth Shall not receive their Said portion of one hundred pounds Each above Given & bequeathed unto them untill my Son Richard Shall Be of the Age of Twentyone Years And when my Son Jonathan Shall be of the Same Age my Said Daughter Mary Shall receive her portion aforesaid But if my Said Sons Richard and Jonathan or either of them Shall happen to Dye before they come to be of Age as abovesaid Then my Said three Daughters Shall receive their portion Abovementioned at Such time as my Said Sons Should have been of Age, had they Lived Also my will & mind is that if either of my Said three Daughters being yet within Age And not marryed Do dye or Decease before the time & times Limited herein for their Receiving the moneys hereby given them that then the part and portion of her So deceasing Shall be Equally Divided in And Amongst the other of them my Said Daughters Surviving Share & Share alike And to their And Each of their heirs and assigns forever, Item I Give and bequeath unto my well beloved wife Elizabeth my Negro boy called Lewey unto her & her heirs & Assigns forever, Item I Give and Bequeath unto my Daughter Hannah my Negro Boy called Jacob And to her heirs & Assigns forever, Item I Give and Bequeath unto my Daughter Elizabeth my Negro boy called Jesse And to her heirs And Assigns forever, I Do further will and order that the aforesaid two Negro boys to witt Jacob And Jese, Bequeathed unto my Said Daughters Hannah & Elizabeth shall be Reasonably prized and Valued by my Executors hereafter named And Shall be Accepted by my Said Daughters for So much of the portion hereinbefore granted unto them & in Lieu of Such A part of the Same,  Item I give and bequeath all & Singular my moveable Estate of what kind or nature Soever or wheresoever unto my Beloved Wife Elizabeth And to her heirs and Assigns forever Excepting what thereof is hereafter Given & bequeathed to my Sons & also Excepting Such a part thereof which probably may be necessary to Defray part of my Debts in Case there shall not be Enough Ordered by the Sale of that part of my Lands & Tenements with the Mill aforesaid hereinbefore Ordered to be Sold at public Vendue for that purpose  I Do also Will and Order that my Said Wife Shall have the Sole & Entire profitt & Benefitt of all my Estate both real and personal until my Sons hereafter named be of Lawful age And that whensoever any of them shall Come to be of Such Age they Shall be Immediately Entituled to the possession of Such part or portion thereof As I have hereafter Severally bequeathed unto them And after they Shall all arrive to Lawful Age as aforesaid then my Said Wife Shall Only have the use of the third part thereof During her Lifetime and in case She Shall marry She shall no Longer be Entituled to the use of any part of my Real Estate  Item I give and bequeath unto my four Sons Richard Jonathan William And Elijah and to Each of their heirs and Assigns for ever to be Equally Divided Amongst them Share and Share alike as they shall Come to be of Age All and Singular my Lands Meadows and Tenements wheresoever they may be found (Excepting what I have already hereinotherways bequeathed And ordered to be Sold at Vendue And in Case either or any of my Said four Sons Shall dye before they come to be of Age Then the part or portion of him or them so deceasing Shall be Equally divided in and amongst the other of them Surviving Share and Share alike And to their And Each of their Heirs and Assigns forever  I Do Further Order that in case either of my Said Sons dye before they are of Age & Leave Lawful Issue the fourth part of my Said Lands And Tenements Shall belong to Such Child whither Male or Female And to his or her heirs and Assigns forever, Item I Give and bequeath unto my Said Son Richard One bay horse Colt one three Year old Heifer one two Year and another one Year old Heifer And three Ewes and three Lambs, Item I do ordain and Appoint John Tredwell Junr. Micah Smith And my Wife Elizabeth all of Hempsted aforesaid to be my Executors of this my Last Will & Testament utterly revoking all Wills & Testaments by me in any wise heretofore made or Declared In Witness whereof I the Said Jonathan Smith have hereunto Sett my hand and Seal the twenty Second day of February in the Year of our Lord God Seventeen hundred and thirty one

                                                                                                                                                Jonathan Smith                                (seal)

Signed Sealed published and declared (after interlining the word Meadows in the sixteenth Line from the bottom) by the Said Jonathan Smith as his Last will & Testament in the presence of us

Mordecai Lester

Samuel Hawlett

Will Hees

 

Probated on 3 April 1733, and Letters of Administration were granted to John Tredwell Junr, Micah Smith and Elizabeth, the Executors.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from New York County Probate, Vol. 11, p. 492-494, copied from original Liber 11, p. 504-506.

 

 

Will of Jonathan Smith of Hempstead, Queens County, Province of New York (1746) *

Be it Know unto All Men by these presents that I Jonathan Smith of the Township of Hempstead in Queens County on Nassau Island yeoman on this thirteenth day of May in the year of our Lord One Thousand Seven Hundred and Forty Six being very week and infirm of Body but through Marcy my understanding at this time pretty well and well knowing that my final Change draweth nigh and that this Mortal Body must give up this transitory life therefore I am willing to settle my worldly estate in peace and Tranquility amongst My Family but first of all I reccommend my Soul to God that gave it me in hope through the Merits of Jesus Christ to inherit Salvation and my Body I bequeath unto the Earth to be buried with a Christian like Burial at ye discretion of my Executors hereafter named and Appointed and as touching such worldly Estate wherewith it hath pleased Almighty God to Bless and bestow upon me I will devise and dispose of in ye following manner first of all my Will is that all those Just Debts which I do owe to any manner of Persons shall be fully Satisfied Contented and paid in such manner as is hereafter mentioned and Expressed Item I will order and bequeath unto my eldest Son Jonathan Smith ye Sum of Five Shillings New York Money and also my large Bible to him and his heirs and Assigns forever Item I will give and bequeath unto my well Beloved Wife Elizabeth Smith and to her heirs and Assigns for ever my best riding mare that I have as also all and Singular my moveable or personal Estate of what Nature or Condition Soever (Except what I shall dispose of hereafter) that is to say ye use and benefit thereof after the same is Sold by my Executors at publick Vandue Item I will give and Bequeath unto my sd. Well beloved Wife ye use and benefit of my East Roome in the House where I now live with ye appurtenances and the one third part of the use of my Farme of Lands &c during her widowhood Item I will give and Bequeath unto my Daughter Phelina Smith her heirs and Assigns one fether Bed withfull furniture thereunto belonging as also Thirty Pounds of Lawfull Money of New York to be paid unto her in some Convenient time after my decease by my Executors out of my Moveable Estate Item I will and bequeath unto my Three Daughters that are married Viz Elizabeth the Wife of Ezekiel Mathews Jane Haviland the Wife of Benjamin Haviland and Hannah Bedle the Wife of Timothy Bedle to each of them one Cow and Calf and to each of their heirs and Assigns for ever Item I give and Bequeath unto my Daughter Philena her Riding Side Sadle and her dutch Spinning Wheel to her own disposal Item I will and Bequeath unto my Son John Smith and to his heirs and Assigns my Stalion A Cow Calf and a Gun which he now has in Keeping Item I Will give and Bequeath unto my Son Henry Smith his heirs and Assigns Two four year Old Stears and a Gun Item I will and Bequeath unto my Son Cornell his heirs and Assigns my New Gun apair of Four year Old Stears and a Grey mare which are to be sold at publick Vendue (with the rest of the Moveables) and the Money arising therefrom to be paid unto him when he shall arrive of full age Item I will and Bequeath order and direct that all and Singular my personal Estate shall be sold and the Money disposed of (that is to say my Daughters Legacy of Thirty pounds which is to be paid unto Philena as above sd and the remainder part to my Wife as above (Exprssed) but my will is that those particular things that are given to my Sons and Daughters shall not be sold (except what is given my youngest Son which I order to be sold as above said) but my will is that in case my Wife should leave any thing of my moveable Estate at her decease and not give it away by Will that the same shall be Equally divided amongst all my Daughters as above Named Item I will give and Bequeath unto my oldest Son Jonathan Smith Jur his heirs and Assigns for ever all that of the equal one half part of the Tract of Land which I bought of John Dean Except twenty Acres which I sold to my Brother Gersham Smith deceased which said half part containes about Fifty Five Acres by Estimation being Scituate near the plains on ye east side of Merrock Road and also the equal one third part of a Lott of Meadow at little Merrick containing by estimation about one Hundred Acres more or less bounded on the North by Land which I gave By Deed to my Son John Smith Item I will give and Bequeath unto my Son Jonathan Smith his heirs and Assigns for ever (on the following Conditions) all that of the equal half part of a Tract of land which I have lying Joining to the North side of Josiah Rainers Land (always excepting Twelve acres first out of the Tract which I have gave my Son John by Deed) containing in the whole tract by Estimation Ninety Seven Acres be it more or less (always provided and it is hereby intended that the said Jonathan or his heirs Executors or Admits do pay or cause to be paid unto the heirs or Successors or Assigns of James Searring deceased and Jonathan Searring the Sum of Twenty Eight Pounds in good lawfull Money in discharge of what I do owe for the last mentioned piece of Land above mentioned as also the equal one fourth part of my other debts Item I will and Bequeath unto my Son Jonathan his heirs and Assigns forever all that of ye equal one forth part of my undivided Lands wheresoever Item I will and Bequeath unto my Son John Smith his heirs and Assigns for ever all that of twelve Acres of Land lying a tract of Land which I have lying Northard of Josiah Rainers House (always provided that he pay unto the Heirs or Executors of James Searing and Jonathan Searing the sum of Seven Pounds ten Shillings Current Money which I owe for the said Twelve Acres of Land) I also will and bequeath unto my Son John his Heirs and Assigns One Certain Messuage and piece of Land and meadow lying on little Merrock being all that was bought of Thomas Frost and Nathaniel Oakley as may apper by Deed bearing date the twenty ninth of April In the year One Thousand Seven Hundred and Forty Five (on Condition that he pay or cause to be paid unto Daniel Hewlet and otherwise Where I am Indebted the sum of Seventy Pounds Current Money as also the equal forth part of my other debts) I also will and bequeath unto my said Son John Smith his heirs and Assigns for ever all those Lands and Meadows which I have given him before by deed of Gift with the equal one forth part of my undivided Lands wheresoever Item I will and Bequeath unto my Son Henry Smith his heirs and Assigns forever all that of the equal half part of a tract of Land that I have lying northward of Josiah Rainers house Except Twelve Acres to be first taken out of the tract) on Condition that he pay or cause to be paid unto James Searings Executors or heirs and Jonathan Searing the Sum of Twenty eight pounds Current Money which I owe them for this Land as also on Condition he pay the equal one forth part of all my other Debts) I also will give and bequeath unto my said Son Henry his heirs and Assigns all other Lands and Right of Lands in Common that is contained in a deed of Gift from me to him as may appear by the same Item I will and Bequeath unto my Son Cornell Smith his heirs and Assigns forever all those land and improvements which I have given him by Deed (he also paying the equal forth part of my other Debts after my Lands are paid for) and further my will is that in case either of my Sons should neglect Omitt or refuse to pay those above limitted Sums of Money as aforesaid that then my will is that my Executors or any two of them Shall have full power and Authority to sell and dispose of so much of the Lands given my Sons as will pay all those Just debts which I do owe (always provided that if any or either of them do preforme my will in paying my debts that his part shall not be sold) and I do fully impower my Executors to give good and lawfull Title for the same as I could have done in my life time to all intents and purposes  Lastly I do hereby Constitute ordain and Appoint my two Sons John and Henry Smith and my Son in Law Timothy Bedle to be my Executor of this my last Will and Testament giving and granting unto them or any two of them full power and Authority to Execute this my last Will and Testament in manner as above said In Witness hereunto I have set my hand and fixed my Seal the day and Year Abovesaid                        his

                                                                                                                                                                Jonathan 77 Smith                              (seal)

                                                                                                                                                                                mark

Signed Sealed Published pronounced and Declared by me Jonathan Smith as my last Will and Testament in the presence of the Subscribers

Benjamen Hewlett

Benjamin Smith

John Rushmore

Samuel Willis

 

Probated on 13 Sept. 1748, Letters of Administration granted to John Smith, Henry Smith, and Timothy Bedle, the Executors.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from New York County Probate, Vol. 16, p. 347-349, copied from original Liber 16, p. 317-319.

 

 

Will of Jonathan Smith of Middleborough, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1765) *

                                                In the Name of God, Amen.

This twelfth day of March in the year of our Lord one thousand, seven hundred, sixty & five, I Jonathan Smith of Middleborough in the county of Plymouth in New-England, being infirm of body, but sound in understanding & memory blessed be God, for the same, Yet being sensible of my mortality, & knowing that it is appointed for all men once to die, do make & ordain this my Last will & testament, that is to say principally & first of all I give & recomend my soul into the hand of God that gave it & my body to the earth to be decently buried at the discretion of my executor nothing doubting but at the general resurrection I shall receive the same again by the mighty power of God; and as touching such worldly estate as it hath pleased God to bless me withal in this life, I give & dispose of in manner & form as followeth, that is to say,  Imprs. I give unto my loving wife Rhoda Smith the use & improvement of the one half of my home estate, with all the buildings, except my saw-mill, during my widdow, and also the one half of my wood lot lying in Plimton, to her, her heirs, & assigns forever, & also of my personal estate, I give her two cows, five sheep, & my mare, & best hog, & my best bed & furniture, & my pannel, & also the one half of my indoor moveables, to her, her heirs, & assigns forever, Item. I give & bequeath to my son Samuel Smith one acre of cedar-swamp, at the northermost end of my lot in the Little-cedar-swamp to him, his heirs, & assigns forever. Item. I give & bequeath to my son John Smith the one half of the remainder of my lot in the Little-cedar-swamp, to him, his heirs, & assigns forever, and also the one fourth of my lot in the Great-cedar-swamp. Item. I give & bequeath to my daughter Sarah Reading the one fourth of my lot in the Great-cedar-swamp to her, her heirs & assigns forever, & also six pounds, thirteen shillings & four pence to be paid to her by my executor. Item. I give & bequeath to my daughter Mary Smith the one fourth of my lot in the Great-cedar-swamp to her, her heirs, & assigns forever, & also six pounds, thirteen shillings &    pence to be paid by my executor. Item. I give & bequeath unto my son Benjamin Smith my lot of land lying at the southeast of Isaac Soul,s orchard, & also five pounds, & my silver knee buckles, & one silver spoon, & also one bed, to him, his heirs, & assigns forever. Item. I give & bequeath to my daughters Abigail & Lois Smith, to each of them a bed & furniture. & also to each of them five pounds, to be paid to them by my executor, and my will is, that these legacies be paid to these three Benjamin, Abigail & Lois, as they come of age. Item. I give & bequeath to my son Joseph Smith all the remaining part of my estate both real & personal to him, his heirs, & assigns, forever; and my will is that my son Joseph Smith, pay yearly unto my wife the sum of five pounds for the support of my daughter Rhoda Smith so long as she liveth, & I do by this my last will & testament constitute & appoint my loving & dutiful son Joseph Smith sole executor to this my last will & testament.—

In witness where I,ve hereunto set my hand & seal, the day & year abovewritten.

Signed, sealed, published & declared in presence of                                                    Jonathan Smith                (seal)

us witts.                  Zechariah Eddy

                                William Soule

                                William Shaw

 

Presented for probate on 13 Oct. 1767 by Joseph Smith, the Executor therein named, and proved by Zechariah Eddy and William Shaw, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Joseph Smith, the Executor, with Zechariah Eddy and William Shaw, all of Middleborough, as sureties.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 19, p. 541-542, from FHL microfilm #0550711.

 

 

Will of Jonathan Smith of Hempstead, Queens County, Province of New York (1777) *

Know All Men by these presents that I Jonathan Smith of the Township of Hempstead in Queens County and province of New York yeoman, being this twenty second day of June in the year of Our Lord one thousand seven hundred and seventy seven, not well in Body but of sound mind and memory for which I have reason to bless Almighty God, and not knowing how soon it may please the Lord to take me away by Death therefore I do make and ordain this present writing and no other to be my last Will and Testament as followeth. First I recomend my Soul to God who gave it and my Body I committ to the Earth to be Buried with a Deacent Burial at the Descretion of my Executors herein after named, and as touching such worldly Estate wherewith it hath pleased the Lord to bless me with I will Devise and dispose of in the following manner, Item I will and bequeath unto Mary Smith my Wife my two Feather Beds beding furniture and appurtenances to them belonging and to be at her own disposall, Item my will is and I do order and direct my Executors to sell all my Homestead where I now live and Land adjoining sittuate in the south Woods within the Township aforesaid and my land within fence on the plains together with all my Rights of Lands and meadows of what kind soever within the patent of Hempstead Afforesaid and also all my moveable Estate not above disposed of after my Desease and when the money is Collected to be disposed of in the following manner, Item I will and bequeath unto Mary My Wife, the sum of ten pounds to be at her own disposal, Item I will and bequeath unto my Daughter in Law Coneriche Smith the sum of ten pounds to be at her own disposal and my Will is and I do order and direct that all my Just Debts be fully paid together with my Funirall Charges by my Executors out of the money ariseing from the sale of My real and personal Estate as aforesaid. Item I will and bequeath unto my three Grandaughters Jane Smith, Sarah Smith and Mary Smith each of them the sum of Twenty pounds in money to be put to Interest for them by my Executors and paid to each of them when they shall arive to the age of Eighteen years and to be at their own disposal. I will and bequeath unto Thomas Smith Rook son of Thomas Smith Deseased the sum of six pounds in money to be paid unto him within one year after my Desease by my Executors, Item I will and bequeath unto my Grandson Jonathan Smith the sum of ten pounds in money to be put to Interest for him and paid to him when he shall arive to the age of twenty one years. Item I will and bequeath unto my two Grandsons namely Silvanus Smith and Jonathan Smith all the Remainder of my Real and personal Estate be it in money or otherwise equelly to be devided between them share and share alike (Excepting my Great Bible which I do give unto the said Jonathan Smith which before I had forgot, and my Will is that my Executors do put the said money to Interest for the use of my two said Grandsons for their Education and bring up which shall be at the Discretion of my Executors and to put them to such Trades as they shall most incline to and to pay unto them each his equill part of said money when each of them the said Silvanus Smith and Jonathan Smith shall arive to the age of twenty One years. Lastly I do hereby ordain Constitute and appoint my Trusty and Loving friends Richard Hewlett Esqr. of Rockway and my Brother Cornell Smith and Benjamin Hewlett Juner to be the Executors of this my last Will and Testament giving them or the Survivers or Surviver of them full power and authority to Execute this my last Will and Testament, and every Clause and Article herein Contained and to sell my Lands and to give a good Title for the same.  In Witness hereunto I the said Jonathan Smith hath set to my hand and fixed my Seal the year and day above written.

                                                                                                                                                Jonathan Smith  X  his Mark             (seal)

Signed Sealed pronounced & Declared by the said Jonathan Smith to be his last Will and Testament in the presence of us who subscribed to the same as Witnesses in his presence and in the presence of each other.

John Van Nostrand

Zabulon Smith

Richard Ellison.—

 

Probated on 20 Jan. 1778, and proved by John Van Nostrand and Richard Ellison, both of the said County Yeomen. Letters of Administration were granted to Cornell Smith and Benjamin Hewlett, two of the Executors, on 13 June 1781.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from New York County Probate, Vol. 34, p. 274-277, copied from original Liber 34, p. 218-220.

 

 

Will of Joseph Smith of Hempstead, Queens County, Province of New York (1746) *

In the Name of God Amen the fourteenth day of November in the Year of our Lord one thousand Seven hundred forty six I Joseph Smith of Hempstead in Queens County being sick and weak but of perfect mind and memory thanks be given unto God and first of all I give Give and Recommend my Soul into the hands of God that gave it and for my body I recommend it to the earth to be buried in a Christian like and decent manner at the discretion of my executors and as to such Worldly estate wherewith it hath pleased God to bless me in this life I give devise and dispose of the same in the following manner and form.

Imprimis it is my Will and I do order that in the first place all my just debts and funeral charges be paid and Satisfied  I give and bequeath unto my four daughters Hannah Mary Sarah and Elizabeth two hundred pounds New York Money apeice and fether bed and furniture to each of them and I give and bequeath unto my Daughter Phebe and her heirs one hundred and Seven pounds all the above said Legacies to be paid in Six months after my decease by my Executors hereafter named  I give and bequeath unto my son Joseph my Negro Man named CoraJoe  I also will give and bequeath unto my four sons Joseph Benjamin Richard and James all my Lands Houses and Buildings with Meadows Marshes Beaches and plains in the Bounds of Hempstead in Queens County with all the rights of what kind or nature soever thereunto belonging to be equally divided between them their heirs and Assigns for ever  I give and bequeath unto my four Sons Joseph Benjamin Richard and James after the funeral charges Just debts and the Legacies above mentioned are all paid to my said Daughters the remaining part of my whole estate of Moveables to be equally divided between them and their heirs  I likewise Constitute and ordain my Brother John Smith my Son Richard and Daughter Hannah Executors and Executrix of this my last Will and Testament And I do here utterly disallow revoke and disannull all and every other former Testaments Wills Legacies and Exectors by me in any ways before this time named willed and Bequeathed Ratifying and Confirming this and no other to be my last Will and Testament  In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and Seal the day and Year above written

                                                                                                                                                Joseph Smith                     (seal)

Signed Sealed published pronounced and declared by the said Joseph Smith   last Will and Testament in the presence of us ye. Subscribers

Timothy Smith

Charles Peters

Susannah Smith

Micah Smith

 

Probated on 23 Sept. 1751, and proved by Timothy Smith and Susannah Smith, two of the Witnesses. Letters of Administration granted to Richard Smith and Hannah Smith, two of the Executors, on 23 Sept. 1751.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from New York County Probate, Vol. 18, p. 16-17, copied from original Liber 18, p. 16-17.

 

 

Will of Micha Smith of Hempstead, Queens County, Province of New York (1747) *

In the Name of God Amen the first day of Aprill in the Year of our Lord Seventeen hundred and Forty Seven I Micha Smith of Hempstead in Queens County within the province of New York Gent being Sick and weak in Body but of perfect mind and Memory thanks be given unto God Therefore calling unto mind the Mortality of my Body and Knowing that it is appointed for all Men once to dye do make and ordain this my last Will and Testament that is to say principally and First of all I give and recommend my Soul into the Hands of God that gave it and my Body I recommend to the Earth to be buried in a Christian like and decent manner at the discretion of my Executors Nothing doubting but at the general Resurrection I shall receive the same again by the Mighty power of God and as touching such worldly Estate wherewith it hath pleased God to bless me in this Life

I give devise and dispose of the same in manner and form following that is to say Imprim: my will and desire is and I do hereby order that all and Singular my debts be fully paid and discharged to whomsoever the same may be Justly due  Item I give and Bequeath unto my well beloved Wife Pheeby my Chaise and the Horse Carrying it and all My Moveables within the House of what Kind Nature the same may be Excepting my Clock and Writing Desk to her and her heirs and Assigns for ever and all my other moveable Estate Negroes Cattle horses and uttensils for Husbandry with the aforementioned Clock and desk with every other part of my personal Estate I do hereby order to be sold a publick Vendue some convenient time after my decease Item I give and bequeath unto my said Wife Pheeby the sum of two hundred pounds New York Money to her and her heirs and Assigns for ever Item I give and bequeath unto my two Daughters Elizabeth and Pheeby after my wife hath received her aforesaid Legacy of Two Hundred Pounds and my debts be first paid out of the Sale of my personal estate as aforesaid the remaining part or over plus thereof to be equally divided between them share and Share alike and to their heirs and Assigns for ever  Item I do will and order that a piece of land lying near Richard Seaman’s containing about Forty Eight Acres for which I have given my Father Isaac Smith a Lease during his Life and now in Possession of my Brother Jacob Smith and my said Father Isaac Smith after whose decease the same piece of land to be sold and the Money therefore to be equally divided between my said two daughters Elizabeth and Pheeby and to their Heirs and Assigns for ever Item I give and bequeath unto my Three Sons Micah Isaac and Richard all and Singular my home stead whereon I now live and about one Hundred Acres of land lying between Timothy Smith and Richard Seaman’s together with all my Meadow at Hungry Harbour to be equally divided between them share and share alike to them and each of them and their heirs and Assigns for ever with all my undivided lands and Marshes in Hempstead if either of my said Sons dye before of Age without Issue his part shall be to the Surviving brothers  Item my will is and I do order that my Wife Pheeby shall have the use and benefit of all my homestead and Lands and Meadows within the said Township of hempstead while She remains my Widdow or untill my said Three Sons shall Sepertely be of Age at which time and times they shall be Entitled to the use and benefit of the equal third part of the said Messuage Tenements Lands and premises and in case my said Wife shall remain my Widdow after my said Three sons shall come of Age she shall dureing her widowhood have the use of my west Room and the two west bedd rooms in the Leantoo Item I give and Bequeath unto my said Three Sons Micha Isaac and Richard all my right which I have in a Lott of Land know by Number twenty one at the nine partners in the County of Dutchess called Stessin to be equally divided between them and to their heirs and Assigns for ever Item I will and order that the equal Fourth part of a Lott Number Eighteen at the nine partners aforesaid the whole Lot being in Partnership between me and Joseph Mott Mordecai Lester and my brother Jacob Smith shall be sold by my Overseers hereafter mentioned and also another Lot in Partnership between the said Mordecai Lester Jacob Smith and myself my share theirin I also order to be sold and all my other rights of Land in any part of Dutchess County Aforesaid all which said Lands and premisses with the Rights priviledges and Appurtenances when sold as aforesaid I do give and Bequeath the Money arriseing from the sale thereof unto my said two Daughters Elizabeth and Pheeby to be equally divided between them and to their heirs and Assigns for ever Lastly I do hereby Constitute Make and ordain my beloved Wife Pheeby Smith and my Good Friends Richard Thorne Robert Marvin to be my Executors of this my last Will and Testament to see the Same duely Executed and performed as far as the same relates to any part of my Estate on Nassau Island and I do also Nominate and Appoint my loving Friends Mordecai Lester and Cornelius Vanwyck of Dutchess County Gent overseers to this my last Will and Testament to see the same Performed as far as relates to any part of my real Estate in Dutchess County aforesaid and I do revoke all other wills heretofore by me made Confirming this to be my last Will and Testament In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and Seal the day and Year above First Written

                                                                                                                                                Micha Smith                      (seal)

Signed Sealed Published and Declared by Micha Smith as his last Will in presence of

Jaka Mitchell

Richard Smith

Phebe Smith

 

Probated on 11 May 1747, and Letters of Administration granted to Pheby Smith, Richard Thorne, and Robert Marvin, the Executors.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from New York County Probate, Vol. 16, p. 145-146, copied from original Liber 16, p. 132-134.

 

 

Will of Nathan Smith of Hempstead, Queens County, Province of New York (1747) *

In the Name of God Amen the eighteen day of May and in the twenty second year of the Reign of our Lord George the second by the Grace of God of Great Britain &c. Annoq Dom 1747 I Nathan Smith Sener of Jamaica in Queens County on Nassaw Island and in the Colony of New York Yeoman being sick and weak in Body but of sound memory and perfect understanding praised be the Almighty God for the same considering the frailty of human nature the certainty of death and the uncertainty of the time do make this my last Will and Testament in manner and form followeth that is to say first and principally I commit my immortal Soul to God who gave it and my body to the dust whare it was taken in hopes of a Glorious resurrection through the merrits and intersestion of our blessed Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ to be decently buried at the discretion of my executors herein after named and to such worldly Estate as it hath pleased God to bestow upon me after my Just debts are first paid I doe and bequeath as followeth Imprimis  Item it is my Will and I do hereby order my Executors after named that at my decease they shall sell a piece or part of my Lands or meadows as they shall think fit to take in a bond of forty pounds that I gave to my Son Nathan Smith to be paid at my decease  Item it is my will and desire that my wellbeloved Wife Martha shall have the use and benefit of all my whole Estate that is not sold that is my houses Lands Meadows and all my moveables Estate towards hur Educating and maintaining my Children for and during her widdowhood  Item I give to my eldest Son Nathan my best coat that I have at my decease  Item I give and bequeath unto my well beloved Wife Martha all my moveables Goods within my house or doe belong within my house for hur owne to dispose of as she think fit whether my said wife shall marry or not marry  Item it is my Will and desire that at my said Wife Martha death or marriage I do hereby order my Executors herein after named to sell and dispose of all my Lands and Meadows that is not sold and all my houses Barnes Orchards and all my moveable Estate that is out of my house that doth not belong within my house and to sell all as Speedily as my Executors shall think convenient this Estate lying at springfield in the bound of Jamaica  Item I will and bequeath unto my Son Nathan ten pounds to be paid out of Lands and meadows after they are sold  Item I give unto my two Sons Amey and Daniel the remainder of the money that my houses Lands Meadows and Orchards do sell for to be equally divided between them both in equal proportion  Item I do order my Executors that when my Lands and Farm is sold to take the money that belongs to my Sons at under age if they be so and put it out to Interest for them till they come age, I do order my Executors that when my moveables that is out of my house is sold Item I give the money unto my three dafters Mary Joanna and Martha to be equally divided between them all and I do order my Executors that if any of my dafters be under age when my moveables are sold they shall take the money that belong to them and put it out to Interest for them till they come to age  Item it is my Will and desire that if any one of my Sons Shall dye before he is of age or before he recieves his part potion that the surviving Sons shall have his part equally divided between them and also if any one of my dafters shall die before she is of age or before she receive her part or potion that the surviving dafters shall have their part equally divided between them  Item I do appoint and constitute my loving wife Martha and Elias Bailes Sener and William Ludlem Senr. Executors of this my last Will and Testament to see the same performed in all the Articles according to the true intent and meaning thereof hereby revoking and making null and void all other Wills and Testaments by me heretofore made declaring this only to be my Last Will and Testament  In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and Seal the day and year first above written.

                                                                                                                                                Nathan Smith                    (seal)

Signed Sealed and published and declared by the said Nathan Smith as his Last Will and Testament in the presence of us. three words within to dispose enterlined before ensealing and delivery.

Simeon Van Noortwyck

Christeyoan Van Noortwyck

Mathew + Van Noortwyck

 

Probated on 13 Nov. 1755, and proved by Simeon Van Nortwyck and Christeyoane Van Nortwyck, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration granted to Martha Smith and Elias Bayle, two of the Executors, on 3 Dec. 1755.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from New York County Probate, Vol. 19, p. 355-358, copied from original Liber 19, p. 333-335.

 

 

Will of Nathan Smith of Flushing, Queens County, Province of New York (1779) *

In the Name of God Amen I Nathan Smith of Flushing being weak in Body but of sound Memory (blessed be God) do this Eight day of September in the Year of our Lord Christ one thousand seven hundred and seventy nine make and publish this My last Will and Testament in Manner following that is to say First, I give and bequeath to My Daughter Mary the sum of Ten pounds and after her decease I give the same to her son James Craft  Also I give and bequeath to my son Nathan Smith all my Estate Moveable or Immovable likewise all my Goods Chattels and all my other substance moveable or Immovable of what kind Nature or Quallity soever the same May be or in what place or places soever the same shall be found as well in my own Custody or possession as in the possession hands power and Custody of any other person or person what soever whereof I shall die seized in possession Reversion or Remainder do I give and bequeath to my son Nathan Smith and to his Heirs forever, And I Make and ordain this My son Nathan Smith and Milecent his Wife and James Mackrell overseers of this My Will to see the same performed According to My true Intent and Meaning  In Witness whereof I the said Nathan Smith Senr. have to this my last Will and Testament set my hand and Seal the day and year above written~

                                                                                                                                                Nathan Smith                    (seal)

Signed Sealed and Delivered by the said Nathan Smith as and for his last Will and Testament in the presence of us who were present at Sealing thereof Nota bene the words and James Mackrell was interlined before Sealing

                                                                                                                                                James Mackrell

                                                                                                                                                Nathan Smith

                                                                                                                                                Emila Smith

 

Probated on 16 Oct. 1779, and proved by James Mackrell shopkeeper of the said County, one of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Nathan Smith and Emila Smith, the Executors, on 16 Oct. 1779.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from New York County Probate, Vol. 32, p. 183-184, copied from original Liber 32, p. 135-136.

 

 

Will of Nathaniel Smith of Jamaica, Queens County, Province of New York (1745) *

In the name of God Amen I Nathaniel Smith of Jamaica in Queens County on Nassau Island in the Province of New York Yeoman being indisposed in Body but thro Gods Goodness of Sound and perfect mind and Memory for which I desire to magnifie and bless the Lord calling to mind the Certainty of Death and the uncertain hour thereof and being Willing to settle or order My Estate in life so as no trouble may Ensue after death do make this my Last Will and Testament Principally and first of all, I Reccommend and bequeath my Soul immortal unto God Almighty relying on his grace thro Jesus Christ his only son for Salvation and as concerning my Worldly Estate wherewith I am now blessed with I do Order Will bequeath and dispose of the same in the following manner  Imprimis I order and Will that all my just Debts and funeral Expences shall be duly paid by my Executors in some Convenient time after my Decease to be made out of my Estate Real and Personal according to the discretion of my Executors And I do hereby Authorize and impower them to make Sale of my lands Real and personal Estate of what nature or kind soever and out of the Sale thereof to pay and Satisfie all my Just and due debts which are owing at the time of my decease aforesaid and I do hereby impower them to make and Execute Deeds therefor as in their discretion shall be thought fit And as touching the remainder or overplus of what my said Estate real and personal shall be sold for I give and bequeath and dispose thereof as follows that is to Say unto My loving Wife Patience and to my Children Patitience and Ludlum to be Equally divided among them share and share alike only my said said Wife shall have my best Bed and furniture over and above an equal Share and I do order and appoint my loving Father in law William Ludlum to take my said Childrens part or portions into his Hands and keeping to be paid to them or their use when they shall respectively arrive to the Ages following that is to say when the Boy shall Arrive to eight years and the Girl at ten Years of Age my Will is that if either of my said Children shall happen to dye before they come of Age that then his or her part shall go to the Surviving Sister or Brother And I do hereby Nominate and appoint My said Father in law and my Brother John Smith to be the Executors of this my Last Will and Testament and do hereby Revoke and disannul all others and declare this only to be my last Will

                                                                In Testimony where of I have hereunto Set my hand and Seal this twelfth day of January Anno Dom: one thousand Seven hundred and forty five

                                                                                                                                                                   his

                                                                                                                                                Nathaniel  X  Smith                            (seal)

                                                                                                                                                                 Mark

Signed Sealed published and declared by the said Nathaniel Smith as his last Will and Testament in the presence of us the Subscribers

                                                                                                John Ludlum

                                                                                                Amos Denton

                                                                                                J. Smith

 

Administration was granted to William Ludlam and John Smith, the Executors, on 25 Jan. 1745.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from New York County Probate, Vol. 15, p. 482-483, copied from original Liber 15, p. 519-520.

 

 

Will of Nehemiah Smith of Jamaica, Queens County, Province of New York (1850) *

In the Name of God Amen I, Nehemiah Smith of Jamaica in Queens County, within the province of New-York, Yeoman being sick and weak in body but thanks be to God of sound mind memory and understanding and now calling to mind that I have but a short time to continue in this transitory life and have reason daily to expect my disolution do make this my last will and testament in manner following

First  I bequeath my soul to God who gave it and my body to the Earth from whence it came to be decently interred by my Executors hereafter named being in hopes of a joyfull resurrection and re-union of my body and soul at the last day by the mighty power of God and as to what worldly estate God hath blessed me with all I give and dispose of the same as follows  First I order all my just debts and funeral Expences to be paid and satisfied  I give devise and bequeath unto my dearly beloved wife Ann my Negro wench named Jenn and her young female Child called Hagar I also give unto my said wife the sum of thirty five pounds to be paid to her or her assigns within one year after my decease, and the sum of thirty five pounds more to be paid unto her or her assigns within two years after my decease making in the whole to sum of Seventy pounds, also I give unto my said wife two Cowes and half a dozen sheep with pasture and hay for all the same winter and summer for one year after my decease I further give to my said wife Ten Bushels of Wheat ten Bushells of Rye and ten Bushells of Indian Corn and sufficient meat and firewood for herself and her family for one whole year after my decease I also allow unto my said wife such priviledges in my now dwelling house as she shall have occasion for both for herself and her family for one whole year after my decease – Item – I also give and bequeath unto my said wife three feather Beds and the bedding and other furniture thereto belonging and all and singular other such household Goods which she brought with her unto me when I married her all which abovementioned Legacys shall be at her own absolute disposal and in lieu of her Dower  Item – I give and bequeath unto my son Wait the whole and sole use benefit and profitts of all and singular my lands tenements and dwelling houses (excepting the priviledges above given to my said wife) for and during the term of one whole year after my decease as also all and singular my winter and Summer Corn now growing on the premises as also the use of my waggon plough harrow and Geers as also the use of two horses for one year as aforesaid I also give unto my said son Wait Two Cows and Two Hoggs in consideration whereof my will is and I do order that he shall supply my said wife with pasture and hay for her two Cows and half a dozen sheep as aforesaid and also allow unto her the Wheat Rye and Indian Corn hereinbefore given unto her and also that he do find and provide unto my said wife sufficient meat and firewood as abovesaid  Item – my will is and I do order that all and singular my my dwelling houses messuages Meadows and Lands with the hereditaments and appurtenances thereto belonging shall by my Executors be sold and conveyed within two years after my decease either by way of publick vendue as or otherwise as to them shall seem best and I do hereby as far as in me lyeth authorize and impower them to make sale thereof accordingly, and to seal and execute good sufficient deed or deeds or other sufficient writings of Conveyance in the law to the buyer or buyers and their heirs and assigns for the same – Item – My will is and I do Order that all the rest of my moveable estate not hereinabove disposed off in any wise shall also be sold by my Executors in some convenient time after my decease at the discretion of my Executors and the Moneys ariseing by or from the sale of my real and personal estate aforesaid I give and bequeath and dispose thereof as follows (my debts being first to be paid thereout) Vizt. To my son Thomas I give the sum of fifty pounds to be paid to him at two equal payments the first to be one year after my decease and the other one year after that I give to my daughter Phebe the sum of Ten pounds to my daughter Rachel the now wife of Thomas Read I give the sum of Ten pounds I also give to my daughter Priscilla the now wife of William Ludlam Junr. Ten pounds and to my daughter Mary lately married to Elias Bayles I give the sum of thirteen pounds all which said four last mentioned Legacys I order to be paid to my said daughters respectively within three years after my decease  Item – I give and bequeath unto Daniel Smith Samuel Smith and Elias Bayles elders and deacons of the presbyterian Congregation in and of Jamaica aforesaid and to their successors for the time being the sum of Ten pounds to be by them or their successors put out to Interest forever for the maintaining of a standing Ministry in the said Congregation to the end of time to be paid within four years after my decease – Item – whereas I have heretofore given unto my other sons to wit Noah Nicholas Jonathan and Wait each of them the like sum of seventy pounds and the over plush of my Estate if any be after the payment of my debts and all and singular the Legacys abovesaid in manner aforesaid I give and bequeath the same unto my said Sons Nehemiah Noah Nicholas Jonahan and Wait to be equally divided amongst them share and share alike And lastly I do nominate authorize and appoint my well beloved sons Nehemiah Noah Nicholas and Jonathan above named Joyntly and severally to be Executors of this my last will and testament and I do hereby revoke and make null and void all other Wills and Testaments Legacys and bequests by me at any time before in any wise made and I acknowledge and allow this and no other to be my last Will and testament

In witness whereof I have hereunto but set my hand and seal this fourteenth day of May, in the year of our Lord Christ One thousand seven hundred and fifty.

                                                                                                                                                Nehemiah Smith                               (seal)

Signed Sealed Published and declared by the above named Nehemiah Smith, the Testator as and for his last Will and Testament (these words to wit wheat in the fourteenth line after my decease in the twenty second he in the twenty fourth and Ten pounds in the fortieth lines on the other side being first interlined) in the presence of us who have hereunto subscribed our names as witnesses thereto in the presence of the said Testator and in the presence of each other

Isaac Bloom

Nehemiah Denton

Benjn. Hinchman

 

Probated on 30 July 1750, and proved by Isaac Bloom, Nehemiah Denton, and Benjamin Hinchman, the witnesses. Letters of Administration granted to Nehemiah Smith, Noah Smith, Nicholas Smith, and Jonathan Smith, the Executors, on 6 Aug. 1750.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from New York County Probate, Vol. 17, p. 183-186, copied from original Liber 17, p. 186-188.

 

 

Will of Nicholas Smith of Jamaica, Queens County, Province of New York (1777) *

In the Name of God Amen I Nicholas Smith of Jamaica in Queens County in the Province of New York Yeoman being weak and low in Body but of sound Mind and Memory (blessed be God therefore do this twenty seventh day of March in the Year of our Lord Christ One thousand seven hundred and seventy seven Make and publish this my last Will and Testament in Manner and form following that is to say Imprimis I comend my Soul into the Hands of Almighty God who gave it me and my Body to the Earth from whence it came in hopes of a joyfull resurrection through the Merits of my Saviour Jesus Christ And as for that Worldly Estate wherewith it hath pleased God to bless me I dispose there of as follows  First I give and devise unto Phebe my well beloved Wife two of the best Cows to be at her own dispose  I will that all my indoors Moveables and furnuture to be equally divided between my said Wife Phebe and my five Daughters, Patience Priscillah Elizabeth Mary and Phebe to be paid to them my said Wife and my said Daughters as they shall arrive at lawfull Age. I also will and order that all my Lands Negro and outdoors Moveables be sould at the discretion of my Executors and all my Just Debts paid and that the remainder of the Money be put to Interest for the benefit of my two sons Benjamin and Noah My said Wife to have the use of the whole untill all the Children come of age. And after that the use of one third of the Money for so long as she shall continue to be my Widow but in Case of Death or remarriage of My said Wife the use of the whole to be in the hands of My Executors to be disposed of by them for the bringing up of the Children and when the Youngest shall come of Age two thirds of the said Money to be equally divided among all the Children And the other third at At the Death or remarriage of my said Wife to be equally divided among my Children  I further Will and order that my two said Sons Benjamin and Noah be put to Trades as Soon as May be And Lastly I hereby Nominate and Appoint Phebe My said well beloved Wife Executrix and my trusty and well beloved friends Noah Smith and Benjamin Everitt Executors of this My last Will and Testament, In Witness whereof the said Nicholas Smith have hereunto set my hand and Seal the day and year first above written.

Signed Sealed and delivered by the Testator as and for his last Will and Testament in the Presence of us who were present at the Signing and Sealing thereof the words (and form) in the 7 line and the word (between) in the 16 line and the words (divided among) in the 34 line being interlined ~

Hendrick Hendrickson                                                                                                       Nicholas Smith                 (seal)

Bernardus Hendrickson

John Hinchman

 

Probated on 14 Apr. 1777, and proved by Barnardus Hendrickson Yeoman and John Hinchman House Carpenter, both of Queens County, two of the witnesses.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from New York County Probate, Vol. 32, p. 274-276, copied from original Liber 32, p. 198-199.

 

 

Will of Noah Smith of Jamaica, Queens County, Province of New York (1777) *

In the Name of God Amen=I Noah Smith of Jamaica in Queens County in the Province of New York Wheelright being sick and weak in body but of sound mind memory and understanding do make and publish this my last will and testament in manner and form following to wit First of all I will and order that my Executors shall as soon as conveniently may be after my decease sell and dispose of such and so great a part of my real and personal estate as they shall find necessary for paying all my just debts and funeral charges and I do hereby authorize and impower them to make sale thereof accordingly and to give and Execute unto the purchasor or purchasors thereof his her or or their heirs and assigns forever good and sufficient deed or deeds in the law for the same all the rest residue and remainder of my estate both real and personal I give and bequeath unto Mary my dearly beloved wife for her to enjoy and receive the income and profits thereof for and during so long a time as she shall remain my widow and no longer  ITEM I give and bequeath unto Joseph Skidmore Nicholas Smith and Daniel Bayles the present Elders and Deacons of the Presbyterian Church and congregation in Jamaica in Queens County aforesaid the sum of Ten pounds current money of New York to be paid to them within one year after my decease and to be by them and their successors Elders and deacons put out to interest for the use of the said Church and congregation forever notwithstanding the above bequest to my said wife  ITEM after the death or remarriage of my said wife I will and order that my whole estate (not before ordered to be sold) both real and personal shall be sold by my Executors hereinafter named and the money arising therefrom disposed of in the following manner to wit, to my son Othniel I give the sum of twenty pounds to my son Nehemiah I give the sum of Twenty pounds To my daughter Mary I give the sum of Twenty pounds to my daughter Phebe I give the sum of Twenty pounds to my daughter Theodosia I give the sum of Twenty pounds to my daughter Tabitha I give the sum of twenty pounds and to my grand children the children of my daughter Unice late the wife of Benjamin Everit I give the sum of five pounds as to the remainder of my said estate I will and order that the same shall be divided into ten equal parts one tenth part of which I give and bequeath unto my said son Othniel Smith one other tenth part to my son Nehemiah Smith one other tenth part to my daughter Priscilla the wife of Nehemiah Carpenter one other tenth part to my daughter Mary Smith one other tenth part to my daughter Phebe Smith one other tenth part to my daughter Theodosia Smith one other tenth part to my daughter Tabitha Smith one other tenth part to my grandchildren the children of my son Nicholas Smith deceased namely Patience, Prissilla, Elizabeth, Benjamin, Noah, Mary, Phebe equally to be divided amongst them one other tenth part to my grandchildren the children of my son Noah Smith deceased namely Jeffery Phebe and George equally to be divided amongst them and the remaining tenth I give to my said grandchildren the children of my said daughter Unice deceased namely Unice and Mary equally to be divided between them and it is my desire that my son Nehemiah Smith shall be put out to learn a trade as soon as a proper place can be got for him AND LASTLY I hereby nominate and appoint Mary my said wife my brother in law William Ludlam and my son Othniel Smith Executors of this my last will and testament hereby revoking all former will and wills be me heretofore made  IN WITNESS whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this third day of August in the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and seventy seven.—

                                                                                                                                                Noah Smith                        (seal)

Signed Sealed published and declared by the above named Noah Smith as and for his last will and testament in the presence of us who have hereunto subscribed our Names as witnesses thereto in the presence of the said Testator and in the presence of each other the words (Phebe) in two place, to wit, in the twenty ninth line of the first side and the sixth line of the second side are wrote on razures and the word profits in the fourteenth line the letters der in the twenty third line of the first side being interlined before the Execution thereof

William Lewis

Nathaniel Hills

Abraham Colyer

 

Probated on 31 Jan. 1785, and proved by William Lewis of Jamaica, Carpenter, one of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Mary Smith and Othniel Smith, two of the Executors, on 10 Feb. 1785.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from New York County Probate, Vol. 37, p. 389-391, copied from original Liber 37, p. 384-386.

 

 

Will of Rachel Smith of Jamaica, Queens County, Province of New York (1743) *

In the Name of God Amen I Rachel Smith of Jamaica Single Woman being Sick and weak in Body but of Sound Mind and Memory being mind full of death and of the Uncertainty of the Hour thereof do make this my last Will and Testament First of all I do bequeath my Soul to God who gave it and my Body I reccommend to the Earth to be decently buried and touching my worldly Estate I do dispose of the same as followeth Viz Item I will and order that my debts shall be paid in Some Convenient time after my decease by my Executors Item I do Give and Bequeath unto my loving Cousen Thomas Read of Jamaica above said on Bond from John Ludleins of Fourteen pounds Sixteen Shillings and nine pence with my Beed and Bolster and half a dozen humspun Shifts and my Long Cloak and Whood for his Wife to him and his Exes. and Assigns for ever Item I give unto my loving Sister Hannah Woolsey of Capewell wife to George Woolsey Twenty pounds New York Money to her and her heirs forever and I also give unto the said Hannah Woolsey my new Patesway hood with my Bleu Rapper and Red Quilt and also a Bleu and white Coverlead Item I give and Bequeath unto my loving Sister Kesiah Smith of Madenhead wife to Jasper Smith Ten pounds New York Money to her and her heirs for ever Item I give unto My loving Cousen Margaret Pierson Daughter to the Reverend Mr. John Pierson of Woodbridge Ten pounds New York Money and desire that it be and remain in the hands and Custody of my Exer for the use and benefit of said Margaret Pierson till she Marries or comes to Age but if said Margaret should die before she comes to age or Marries then I will and Bequeath that the Ten pounds shall go to my loving Sister Judith Pierson and her heirs Item I give unto my Aunt Hannah Smith Wife to Samuel Smith of Jamaica above said My Silver Tea Spoons and all My Cheania and also my Velvit hood Item will and Bequeath unto my loving Cousin Samuel Smith Junr. my Gold Sleeves Buttons and to the Wife of said Samuel Smith Three humspun Aprons and One Hand kerchief Item I give unto Patience Smith Wife to Nehemiah Smith Junr. One Green Quilt and three Shifts Item I give unto my Exes. hereafter mentioned three pounds New York Money to be paid to the present Deacons or Elders of the Presbyterian Church in Jamaica and their Successors for the time being by them to be put at Intrest the Intrest of which is to be made use of for the Support of a Standing Ministry in the Presbyterian Congregation in Jamaica for ever Item I give all the remaining part of My Money in Bonds or otherwise Except What is above mentioned to my Cousen Hannah Pierson daughter to the Revern'd Mr John Pierson of Woodbrigde and my Cousen Esiball Freeman daughter of Henry Freeman of Woodbrige above’d to be equally divided between them only the same I desire shall be in the Hands of my Exes for the and Benefit of said Hannah Pierson and Esiball Freeman till they Marry or come to Age but if said Esiball should die before she comes to age or Marryes The I will and Bequeath that her the said Isiballs part as above Expressed shall be given to Kesiah Woolsey the Grand Daughter to Hannah Woolsey above named and if said Hannah Pierson should dye before she Marries or comes to age the I give and Bequeath her part as above Expressed to be for the use and Benefit of Margaret Pierson above mentioned Item I do order that the rest of my Estate all Except what is herein mentioned shall be Equally divided between my three Sisters herein mentioned Hannah Woolsey, Judith Pierson and Keziah Smith to them and their heirs forever Item I do hereby Nominate and Appoint my loving Cousen Thomas Read Sole Executor of this my last Will and Testament and do Impower him to take into his hands and Possession my Estate and to use and Improve the same as above Expressed And I do declare this and no other to be my last Will In Testimony Whereof I have hereunto set My Hand and Seal this twenty Six day of December One Thousand Seven hundred and Forty Three

                                                                                                                                            her

                                                                                                                                Rachel   X  Smith                (seal)

                                                                                                                                           mark

        Signed Sealed deliverd and declared in the Presence of us three lines in the Margin writ and Five words Interlined before Executed

Saml Smith

Nehemiah Smith

Saml Smith Junr.

 

Probated on 16 Apr. 1747, and Letters of Administration granted to Thomas Reed, the Sole Executor.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from New York County Probate, Vol. 16, p. 127-130, copied from original Liber 16, p. 118-120.

 

 

Will of Richard Smith of Hempstead, Queens County, Province of New York (1711) *

In the Name of God Amen. The Twenty third of March one thousand seaven hundred Ten and Eleaven I Richard Smith of Hempstead in Queens County, yeoman, being sick & weake in body, but I thank God of perfect memory and understanding and Calling to mind the mortallity of frail Body, not knowing how soon it my Crumble into a Dissolution, Do make and ordaine this my Last will and Testament, my Soul I recommend to God who breathed it into me, My Body to the Earth to be buried after a Christian Like Manner hopeing to receive the Same at the resurrection of the Just. As for the Worldly Estate it hath pleased God to bless me with all I give and Dispose the Same as followeth. First I give to my welbeloved Wife Catharine one halfe of my Moveables, and to have the full management of my Farm and whole Estate till my Son Phillip arrive to the full age of one and Twenty, and in Case of his Death tell my Daughter Mary arrives to the full age of one and Twenty freely to be possessed and Enjoyed by my Said Loveing Wife Catharine tell my said Children arrive to the Aforesaid age, in Case of her marrying again to have Fifteen pound / yeare Dureing her Naturall Life, if not marryed, to have her abode and Sutable accommodashions Dureing Life, as also the one half of my moveables aforesaid to be at her Disposal and Discretion to be willed as She Shall think Convenient at her Death, and in Case of the Death of my aforesaid Children my Farm withall appurtenances thereto belonging to be and Remain in the possession of my Loveing wife Catharine Dureing her Life, and after her Death to my Brother Timothy Smith in Case of the Death of my own Naturall Children. Also it is my will that the fifteen pound p annum is not to begin to be payable till my said Son or Daughter are Come to the full age of one and Twenty, my aforesaid Loveing Wife Catharine haveing the Sole and whole management of my Estate both reall and personal till my Said Children arrive to the years aforesaid, Item, I give to my Loveing Son Phillip all my Lands and possessions with all rights and priviledges thereunto appertaining within the Town and bounds of Hempstead freely to be possessed and Enjoyed by him his heirs and assignes for Ever. also I give unto him Ten pound with the use of it, when he Comes to the full age of one & Twenty, in Case of his Death, vizt. my Said Son Phillip, my Estate reall to accruw to my Daughter Mary her heires and assignes for Ever, and in Case of the Death of my aforesaid Children to be to my Brother Timothy Smith his heires and assignes for Ever, upon the Death of my beloved wife Catharine, Item, I give to my Loveing Daughter Mary one half of my moveables, as also one lot of meadow lying and Situated on the West Side of Washburns neck which I Desire And will may be Sold at the Discretion of my wife as Executrix and overseers, and the Money to be put out to Interest, and She to receive the principal and Interest at her Day of Marriage, or when she arrives to the full age of Eighteen yeares, and if She Dyes without Issue her half of the moveables to be to the use and behoofe of my Loveing wife Catharine – Also I Constitute and ordaine my well beloved wife Catharine Executrix of this my last Will as aforesaid, Likewise I ordaine James Jackson and James Lyrren as overseers of this my Last will, Whome I Impower by Virtue of ~ this last Will and Testament to Sell three acres of Land at the folly of the NorthSide of the Town of Hempstead as also a peice of Meadow Situate on the West Side of Washburns Neck, and I will that their Conveyance, Deeds and Seals Shall be afirm alienation from Mind to any one who Shall purchase the said right of three acres or the aforesaid Meadow Lying as aforementioned. And I do hereby utterly disallow and Disannull all and Every other former Testaments wills Legacies and Executors by me any ways before this time named, willed and bequeathed, Ratifying and Confirming this and no other to be my Last will and Testament In Witness Whereof I have hereunto Set my hand and Seal the Day and Yeare above written.

                                                                                                                                                Richard Smith                                   (seal)

Signed Sealed published and Declared by the Said Richard Smith as his Last Will and Testament in the presence of us

John Treadwell

Jeremiah Smith

       his

John + Cornwell

      mark

 

Memorandum that the Fifteen pound a year within mentioned bequeathed to my Wife Catharine Dureing life should have been writt Dureing her widowhood and it is my Will & Desire that my said Wife Catharine have & Enjoy Said Fifteen pound as long as she Continues my widow, the said Sume Comenceing from the time that my Son Phillip, or in Case of his Death, that my Daughter Mary arrive to ye full age of one & Twenty, ye said Sume to be paid out of ye product of my farm, the rest to be and Remaine as aforemenconed within the body of my will, In Witness Whereof I have hereunto Set my hand and Seal the Day and Yeare within written. Witnessed by us John Treadwell Jeremiah Smith John X Cornwell ~~

 

Presented for probate on 17 May 1711, and Letters of Administration granted to Katharine Smith, the Executrix, on 19 Nov. 1711.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from New York County Probate, Vol. 8, p. 64-65.

 

 

Will and Codicil of Sylvanus Smith of Hempstead, Queens County, Province of New York (1769) *

                In the Name of God Amen the tenth day of March in the Year of our Lord Christ one thousand seven hundred and sixty nine I Sylvanus Smith of the Township of Hempstead in Queens County and Province of New York Yeoman being at this Time infirm in Body but of perfect mind and memory thanks be given unto God therefore calling unto mind the mortality of my Body and well knowing that it is appointed for all Men once to die do make and ordain this to be my last Will and Testament principally and first of all I give and recommend my soul into the Hands of God that gave it me nothing doubting but at the general Resurrection I shall receive the same again by the mighty Power of God and as for my Body I recommend it to the Earth to be buried in a christian like and decent manner at the discretion of my Executors hereafter named and appointed And as touching such worldly Estate wherewith it hath pleased God to bless me with in this Life I give devise and dispose of the same in the following manner and form  Imprimis It is my Will and I do order that in the first Place all my just Debts and funeral Charges be fully paid and satisfied  Item I give and bequeath unto Sarah my well beloved Wife the sum of two hundred Pounds Current Money of New York to her as long as she remains my Widow to be in lieu of her Dower or Power of Thirds and it is my Will and I do order that if my Wife should marry that she shall have but one hundred Pounds during her natural Life to be also in lieu of her Dower or Power of thirds  Item it is my Will and I do order that my Wife shall have the Priviledge of living in my House until my youngest Child arrives to lawfull Age Provided that she remain my Widow – And I do order that my said Wife and my Children shall have their living on my said Estate as long as my said youngest Child is under Age provided that my Wife remain my Widow during said Time  It is my Will and I do order that the use and profits of my Estate shall be to support my said Wife and Children as long as they are under Age and in bringing my Children up to Learning and Trade if Any of them chuses to learn a Trade my Wife to have her Support from said Estate untill my youngest Child arrives to lawfull Age she remaining my Widow during the said Time  Item I give and bequeath unto my said Wife one riding Chair  Item I give and bequeath unto my said Wife and to my Daughter Betsy all my Houshold Furniture to be equally divided among them  Item I give and bequeath unto my said Wife one Negro Wench named Hannah to her and her heirs and Assigns forever  Item I give and bequeath unto my Daughter Betsy the sum of two hundred Pounds current lawful Money of New York to be paid unto her  Item, I give and bequeath unto my son Joseph and my son John and my son Timothy and my son Daniel all the residue of my Estate both real and personal to be equally divided among them as they arrive to lawfull Age to them and their Heirs and Assigns forever that is that each and every of my said sons shall have their respective part of my said Estate both real and personal when they arrive to lawful Age to them and their respective heirs and Assigns forever  It is my Will and I do order that my Executors shall sell as much of my Estate either real or Personal as will be sufficient to discharge and pay my Debts with And I do order that my said Executors do sell my Negroe Tim  Item It is my Will and I do order that if my Wife should chance to have any other child or Children by me that such Child or Children shall have an equal Proportion with my four sons before mentioned in my Estate real and personal when such Child or Children arrive to lawfull Age to its heirs and Assigns forever and it is my Will and I do order that if any of my Children die under age that the Legacy bequeathed on such shall be equally divided Among my surviving Children  Lastly I do hereby constitute nominate and appoint my Wife Sarah and my Brother Timothy Smith and James Smith of Herricks to be Executors of this my last Will and Testamant and in Case of Death the survivors of them giving and ratifying unto them my full power and Authority to Execute the same

                In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my Hand and fixed my seal the Day and Year first above written

                                                                                                                                                Silvanus Smith                  (seal)

                Signed sealed published pronounced and declared by me the said Sylvanus Smith as my last Will and Testament in the presence of the Subscribers.

Samuel Denton

Henry Downing

Luke Cummins

 

                A Codicil annexed to this my last Will and Testament made the Thirtyeth day of March in the Year of our Lord Christ one thousand seven hundred and seventy witnesseth that I the above named Sylvanus Smith of the Township of Hempstead in Queens County and Province of New York Yeoman do by these Presents give and bequeath unto my Daughter Betsey the Wife of Samuel Townsend the just and full sum of one hundred Pounds curr’t lawfull Money of New York to be paid unto her in a convenient Time after my decease the said one hundred Pounds I give her in Lieu of any Part of my houshold Goods that I bequeathed unto my said Daughter heretofore in my last Will and Testament so that she is to be excluded from any Part of said Goods, the abovesaid one hundred Pounds I give and bequeath unto my said Daughter to purchase houshold Goods and furniture as it suits her. Item I give and bequeath unto Sarah my well beloved Wife all my houshold furniture towards bringing up the remainder of my Children. Item I give and bequeath unto my said Daughter Betsey three Milch Cows and three Calves  Item I give and bequeath unto my said Daughter Betsy eight Ewes and eight Lambs  It is my Will and I do order that my said Daughter Betsy shall be entitled to all that I have given and bequeathed unto her in my last Will and Testament excepting my houshold Goods and Furniture.

                In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and fixed my seal as a Codicil to this my last Will and Testament the day and Year above mentioned in this Codicil

                                                                                                                                                Silvanus Smith                  (seal)

                Signed, sealed published and declared by me the said Silvanus Smith in the presence of the Subscribers

Samuel Denton

Jane Smith

Luke Cummins

 

Probated on 17 Apr. 1770, and proved by Samuel Denton and Luke Cummins, of said County Yeomen, two of the witnesses to the Will and Codicil. Letters of Administration were granted to Timothy Smith and James Smith, two of the Executors, on 23 Apr. 1770.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from New York County Probate, Vol. 27, p. 404-407, copied from original Liber 27, p. 383-385.

 

 

Will of Thomas Smith of Hempstead, Queens County, Province of New York (1749) *

        In the Name of God Amen the Sixteenth day of May in the year of our Lord Seventeen hundred and forty nine I, Thomas Smith alias Rock of Hempstead in Queens County Yeoman being very sick and weak in Body but of perfect sound mind and memory thanks be given to Almighty God therefore and knowing that it is appointed for all men once to die do make this my last will and Testament in manner and form following that is to say principally and first of all I recommend my soul and spirit into the hands of Almighty God that gave it in hopes of a Joyfull Resurrection at the last day my Body I commit to the earth to be decently buried at the discretion of my Executors hereafter named and as touching my worldly Goods I give and bequeath the same as followeth that is to say First I will that all my debts be well and truely satisfied and paid–Item–I give and bequeath unto my well beloved Wife Pheeby Two Cowes one horse one Bedd and Furniture and all my moveables within doors to her and her heirs and assigns forever I also give unto my said wife the use of all my house and Lands during her widowhood to enable her to bring up my Children Item I do will and order that that remaining part of my Moveables of what kind soever shall be sold at Publick Vendue Item I give and Bequeath unto my Son Zebulon all and singular my Homestead and the Land and premisses thereunto belonging to have and to hold to him and his heirs and assigns forever Item–I will and ordain that all my Land adjoyning to Joseph San      and Jonathan Smith shall be sold at publick vendue and that the equal Moiety or half part thereof shall be equaly divided between my said Wife Pheebe and my daughter Mary and their assigns forever and that such equal half being paid to my wife after the sale shall be in lieu of her dowry–Item–I give and bequeath unto the Child Male or Female with which My said wife is now Supposed to be pregnant the other equal half of the last mentioned land for which the same shall be sold as aforesaid to him or her as it shall happen and to his or her heirs and assigns forever But in case of failure of the birth of such Child then the same share of Land or the Moneys ariseing from the Sale thereof as aforesaid I give unto my said son Zebulon and to his heirs and assigns forever. Lastly I do hereby nominate and appoint my loving friends James Pine and Benjamin Hulet and my loving wife Pheeby to be my Executors of this my last will and Testament. And do utterly revoke all other wills at any time heretofore by me made Confirming this and no other to be my last will and testament. In Witness whereof I the said Thomas Smith have hereunto set my hand and seal the day and year first herein written.

                                                                                                                                                Thomas Smith                   (seal)

Signed Sealed Published pronounced and declared by Thomas Smith as his last will and testament in presence of Charles Peters – Timothy Smith – James Wood

 

Probated on 14 Nov. 1749, Letters of Administration granted to Phebee Smith, James Pine and Benjamin Hulet, the Executors.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from New York County Probate, Vol. 17, p. 26-28, copied from original Libor 17, p. 25-26.

 

 

Will and Codicil of Thomas Smith of Jamaica, Queens County, Province of New York (1771) *

                In the Name of God Amen I Thomas Smith of Jamaica in Queens County on the Island of Nassau in the Province of New York Cordwainer being in Good Health and perfect Memory (blessed be God therefore) do this Twenty ninth day of July in the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and seventy one make and publish this my last Will and Testament in Manner and form following that is to say, Imprimis I commend my Soul into the Hands of Almighty God who gave it me, and my Body to the Earth from whence it came in hopes of a joyful Resurrection through the Merits of my savior Jesus Christ and as for that Worldly Estate wherewith it has pleased God to bless me, I dispose thereof as follows. First I do will and order that all my just Debts and Funeral Charges shall be duly paid by my Executors hereinafter named Item I give and bequeath unto Deborah my dearly beloved Wife the full and free use, benefit and profits of all and singular my whole Estate both real and personal for and during so long a time as she shall continue my Widow and no longer. Item if in case my said Wife shall see fit to sell all or any part of my said Estate either Real or personal during her Widowhood, I do hereby authorize and impower my said Executors or any two of them to make sale thereof or any part thereof accordingly, and to give and execute good sufficient Deed or Deeds to the purchaser or purchasers thereof, and the Moneys arising by the Sale thereof I do will and order that the same shall be put out to Interest by my said Executors the yearly Interest thereof I give to my said Wife for and during the Time she shall continue my Widow and no longer, Item after the Death or Remarriage of my said Wife, I do hereby will and order that all my whole Estate both real and personal shall be sold by my Executors as soon as conveniently may be, and I do hereby authorize and impower them to sell the same accordingly, and to give and execute good sufficient Deed or Deeds to the purchaser or purchasors thereof, and the moneys arising by the Sale thereof I do give and bequeath the same to my seven Children namely, Platt, Thomas, Henry, William, Oliver, Sarah and Elizabeth equally to be divided amongst them share and share alike. Item as to such part of my Estate as shall fall to the share of my said son Platt, it is my will that in case my said son Platt shall happen to Dye before his now wife that the same go to my Grandson Platt Smith Son of my said son Platt, and in case my said Grandson shall happen to Dye without lawful Issue the I give the same to my six surviving children above named, equally to be divided amongst them share and share alike. And lastly I do hereby nominate and appoint Deborah my said Wife, and my sons Thomas and Henry or any two of them Executors of this my last Will and Testament, hereby revoking all former Will and Wills by me heretofore made allowing this and no other to be and contain my last Will and Testament.

                In Witness whereof I the said Thomas Smith have to this my last Will and Testament set my Hand and Seal the Day and year above written

                                                                                                                                                Thomas Smith                   (seal)

                Signed, sealed, published and declared by the above named Thomas Smith as and for his last Will and Testament in the presence of us who have hereunto set our Names as Witnesses thereto in the presence of the said Testator and in the presence of each other, First interlining the Word “one” between the 4th and 5th of the first side and razing out one Word in the 17th Line of the same side, and writing the Words “to sell” on an Erazure in the 16th Line, and the Words “or any two” in the 18th Line of the same side, and raizing out two Word in the 2d Line of this side. Samuel Doughty, Waters Smith, Johannis Lott.

                I Thomas Smith of Jamaica in Queens County in the Province of New York, Cordwainer do this twenty ninth Day of July One thousand seven hundred and seventy one make and publish this my codicil to my last Will and testament in manner following (to wit)

                Whereas I have in and by my last Will and Testament given and bequeathed (after the Death or Remarriage of Deborah my said Wife) unto my said son Platt Smith in my said Will named one seventh part of what Estate I shall leave (after debts and other necessary Charges paid) in such manner as is in my said Will particularly mentioned I do hereby declare that my Will is that my said son Platt shall have such seventh of my said Estate absolutely without any Restriction whatsoever And it is my will further and I do hereby nominate and appoint him my said son Platt Smith to be one of the Executors of my said last Will and Testament, giving unto him as full Power and Authority to act and do in all things touching or concerning the Execution of my said last Will and Testament as any of my said Executors in my said Will have by virtue thereof. Also it is my desire that this present codicil be made part of my last Will and Testament to all Intents and purposes.

                In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my Hand and Seal the Day and year above written

                                                                                                                                                Thomas Smith                   (seal)

                Signed sealed and delivered (one word in the 9th Line being first raized out) in the presence of us Samuel Doughty, Waters Smith, Johannis Lott.

 

Presented for probate on 29 May 1772, and proved by Samuel Doughty and Johannis Lott, of the said County, yeomen. Letters of Administration were granted to Deborah Smith, the Executrix, and Thomas Smith and Henry Smith, the Executors, on 22 July 1772.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from New York County Probate, Vol. 28, p. 350-353, copied from original Liber 28, p. 283-285. 

 

 

Will of Wait Smith of Goshen, Orange County, Province of New York (1750) *

In the Name of God Amen I Wait Smith of Goshen in the County of Orange in the Province of New York (yeoman) being in perfect health of Body and of sound mind and memory and understanding (praised be to God for the same) considering the uncertainty of Life and the Certainty of death doe make this my Last Will and Testament in manner and form following first of all I bequeath my Soul to God who gave it Recommending on his mercy through Christ my Redeemer for Salvation and my Body I Recommend to the Earth to be decently interred at the discretion of my Executors herein after named and as to all such Worldly Estate wherewith it hath pleased God to bless me with I give devise and bequeath the same in manner and form following first I will that all my Just debts and Funeral Charges be fully paid and satisfied  Item I give and bequeath and devise unto my beloved Wife Charity Smith the third part of all my moveable Estate after my Just debts be paid to be and Remain to her and to her own disposal also the Remainder of my moveable Estate to her use and benefit and the priviledge of the best Room in my dwelling House and the equal third part of the benefit and use of my homestead so long as she shall continue my Widdow  Item I give unto my Eldest Son Wait Smith my equal half share of my Town Right with all my Wearing apparell and my Great Bible which shall be and Remain to him and to his heirs and Assigns for ever  Item I give and bequeath unto my Son Samuel Smith my home Lott in Goshen aforesaid known by number thirteen Containing by Estimation eighty acres also my other equal half of the abovesaid Town Right and his Chois of any one of my Working horses and the Farming Utensils and one third part of my moveable Estate together with the Housing Improvement Hereditaments & appurtenances thereunto belonging to the aforesaid Lands Lying and being within the County of Orange in the Province of New York which shall be and Remain to him and to his heirs and Assigns to the only use benefit and behoof of him & his heirs and Assigns for ever  Item I give and bequeath unto my two daughters Elizabeth Smith and Charity Thomson the other equal third part of my moveable Estate to be divided shear and shear alike between them which shall abide and Remain to them and their Respective Assigns for ever  Item I give and bequeath unto my Son Oliver Smith the Sum of ten Shillings which shall Remain to him and to his heirs & Assigns for ever  Item I give and bequeath unto my Son James Smith the Sum of ten Shillings and to his heirs and Assigns for ever  Item I give and bequeath unto my Son William Smith the Sum of ten shillings and to his heirs and Assigns for ever  Item I give and bequeath unto my Son Joshua Smith the Sum of ten shillings and to his heirs and Assigns for ever  Item I give and bequeath unto my Son Solomon Smith the Sum of ten Shillings which shall Remain to him and to his heirs and Assigns for ever  And lastly I doe hereby nominate make and appoint my two Sons Wait Smith and Samuel Smith or in case of death one of them to be the Executors of this my Last Will and Testament and do impower and authorize them to sell and dispose of so much of my moveable estate as shall discharge all my Just debts as aforesaid And to see that the above divisions of my said Moveable Estate be divided as equally as may be and I do Revoke and disannull all other Wills & Testaments and doe declare this to be my Last In Witness whereof I have hereunto set and putt my hand & Seal this twenty fourth day of September and in the Year of Our Lord one thousand seven hundred and fifty.

                                                                                                                                                Wait Smith                                          (seal)

Signed Sealed published and declared by the said Wait Smith as his Last Will and Testament in the presence of us who subscribed our names in the presence of the Testator

Daniel Everett

Daniel Gales

Gilbert Denton

 

Probated on 12 Oct. 1753, and proved by Gilbert Denton, one of the witnesses. Letters of Administration granted to Wait Smith and Samuel Smith, the Executors, on 12 Oct. 1753.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from New York County Probate, Vol. 18, p. 396-398, copied from original Liber 18, p. 366-369.

 

 

Will of Wait Smith of Jamaica, Queens County, Province of New York (1765) *

In the Name of God, Amen. I Wait Smith of Jamaica in Queens County in the Province of New York yeoman being sick and Weak in Body, but of sound mind memory and understanding, do make and publish this my last Will and Testament in manner and form following to wit. First of all I order that all my Just Debts and Funeral Charges be paid by my Executors. Item I order that all my Estate both Real and Personal be sold by my Executors by Vendue or Otherwise as they shall see fit within two years after my Decease, and the moneys ariseing thereby to be disposed of in the following manner. Item I give and bequeath unto my wellbeloved Brothers namely Nehemiah Smith, Noah Smith, Nicholas and Jonathan Smith the Sum of Ten pounds Each. Item I give and bequeath unto my well beloved Sisters namely Phebe Everitt, Rachel the Wife of Thomas Reade, Prissilla the wife of William Ludlum Junr. and Mary the Wife of Elias Bayles, Each the Sum of Ten Pounds Current money of New York. Item I give unto my Cousins Namely John Bayles and Nehemiah Bayles Sons of the above named Elias Bayles and Mary his Wife Each the Sum of Five pounds Current Money of New York. Item I give and Bequeath unto the Elders and Deacons of the Presbyterian Church and Congregation in Jamaica for the Support of the Gospel in said Town the Sum of Ten pounds Current money of New York. Item I give and Bequeath unto my well-beloved Wife Jane all the rest and residue of my Estate, All which above Legacies are to be paid by my Executors within Two years after the Sale of my said Estate. And Lastly I do hereby nominate and appoint My Well-beloved Wife Jane and My Well beloved Friend Daniel Bayles Executors of this my last Will and Testament, hereby Revoking all former Wills by me heretofore made.— In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and Seal this Twenty ninth Day of May in the year of our Lord Christ One thousand Seven hundred and Sixty five.—

                                                                                                                                                Wait Smith                                          (seal)

Signed Sealed published and Declared by the above named Wait Smith as and for his last Will and Testament in the presence of us who have hereunto Subscribed our names as Witnesses thereto in the presence of the said Testator, and in the presence of Each other.

Thomas Bayles

Patience Baylis  X her Mark

Robt Hinchman

 

Probated on 11 May 1781, and proved by Robert Hinchman, of Queens County, Scrivener, one of the witnesses. Letters of Administration granted to Jane Smith, the Executrix, on 22 Mar. 1782.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from New York County Probate, Vol. 34, p. 583-585, copied from original Liber 34, p. 461-462.

 

 

Will of William Smith of Hempstead, Queens County, Province of New York (1781) *

In the Name of God, Amen. This nineteenth day of May in the year of Our Lord one thousand seven hundred and Eighty one, I William Smith of the Township of Hempsted in Queens County and Province of New York, being in a Weak and low state of Health, but of sound mind and memory thanks be unto God for the same, Calling unto mind the uncertainty of this Life and knowing that it is appointed for all men to die, do make and Ordain this my last Will and Testament in manner and form following, that is to say. First I order all my Just Debts and Funeral Expences to be paid. Item. I give and bequeath unto my Daughter Elizabeth the Wife of Jacob Downing the sum of Two hundred Pounds to be paid to her within six months next after my Decease, to be paid out of my Personal Estate if sufficient, otherwise, I Charge the payment thereof on My whole Real Estate, Item I give and devise unto my Sons, John, William Treadwell, and Josep, and to their Heirs Executors Administrators and assigns for ever, all my Real Estate, and all the residue of my Personal Estate equally to be divided among them share and share alike as Tenants in common; and in Case my Sons Tredwell and Joseph or either of them shall Dye under the Age of Twenty one years and without lawfull Issue.—Then I give and Devise the share part and portion of my Estate hereby Devised and bequeathed to such of them, or such of them so dying unto my Surviving Sons their Heirs Executors and Administrators, share and share alike as Tenants in Common; and in Case my said Daughter Elizabeth should die before the time of payment of her bequest, Then I give the said Two hundred Pounds to such Child or Children as she shall have at the time of her Death, and I order and Direct my Executors in case of my said Daughters Death, to put the said monies out at Interest for the use and benefit of such Child or Children as my Daughter shall leave, to be paid to such Child or Children as they shall arrive to the age of twenty one years, and in Case my said Daughter should die without any Children, before the time of payment, and such Child and Children die before they attain the age of Twenty one years, then I give the same equally among my abovesaid four Sons John William, Tredwell and Joseph. and I do expresly declare that my Sons John and William altho hereby appointed my Executors, shall be accountable to my other Children for their Several and respective Shares parts and proportions of the sum and sums of money now due or that shall be due to me from them, my said Sons John and William or either of them at my Death, as part of my Personal Estate above bequeathed, it not being my intention by the appointment of my said two Eldest Sons My Executors to release or discharge them or either of them from such Debt or Debts. Item I hereby Authorise and impower my Executors and the Major part of them and the Survivors and Survivor of them at any time during the nonage of my youngest Surviving Son (if my Executors shall think it best and most the advantage of my said Sons) to sell all or any part of My Lands and Real Estate to any person or persons in fee simple, and to make a Good Title in Law for the same, and the monies to arise from such sale I give and bequeath to my said four Sons in the same shares in which my Real Estate is divided to them as aforesaid, And Lastly I do nominate Constitute and appoint my said loving Sons John and William and my loving Brother in Law Samuel Birdsall to be whole and sole Executors of this my last Will and Testament; and I do hereby revoke Disanul and make void, All and all manner of former and other Will and Wills, Testament and Testaments heretofore by me Made and Declared, Either in word or writing and do publish and Declare this to be my last Will and Testament, In Witness Whereof I have hereunto set my hand and Seal the day and year first above Written.—

                                                                                                                                                William Smith                                    (seal)

Signed Sealed published pronounced and declared by the said William Smith as his Will and Testament, in the presence of us the the Subscribers, who in his presence and in the presence of each other, subscribed our names as Witnesses to the same.—

George Rapelje

Jno: Kissam

Thomas Appleby Junr.

 

Probated on 9 July 1781, and proved by George Rapelje and Thomas Appleby Junr., both of Hempstead, yeoman, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration granted to John Smith, William Smith, and Samuel Birdsall, the Executors, on 25 July 1781.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from New York County Probate, Vol. 34, p. 313-315, copied from original Liber 34, p. 250-252.

 

 

Will of Benjamin Snell of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1818) *

Be it remembered that I Benjamin Snell of Bridgwater in the County of Plymouth on the 30th. day of October A.D. one thousand eight hundred & eighteen calling to mind the uncertainty of this mortal life and being of sound, disposing mind & memory blessed be Almighty God for the same do make & publish this my last Will & Testament in manner and form following, (viz) First, I Give & Bequeath to my well beloved wife Rebecca the use & improvement of one-third of all my real estate & two Cows during her remaining my Widow, also I give her all my household furniture & Books to be entirely at her disposal. I give & bequeath to my Daughter Beckey Baker Two Hundred Dollars which, in addition to what I have heretofore given her, is her share of my estate. I also give & bequeath to my two remaining Daughters Sukey & Stelley four hundred dollars each, all the aforesaid Legacies to become payable by my Executor at my decease –

Lastly. I give bequeath & devise to my son Benjamin Snell all my Real & Personal Estate of evry description which I may die seized of, subject however to the payment of all my just debts & the Legacies aforesaid, to hold to him the said Benjamin his heirs & assigns forever –

And I do hereby appoint my said son Benjamin sole Executor of this my last Will & Testament. And my will is that my youngest daughters Sukey & Stelley afore named shall have the priviledge of living in my house & a seat in my pew in the meeting house during their remaining single & unmarried. & also my will is that the provisions on hand at my decease shall be used for the support of the family the ensuing year. In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand & seal the day & year first above written.~

Signed sealed published and declared

by the above named Benjamin Snell

to be his last Will & Testament in presence of us,

who at his request & in his presence have                                                                     Benjamin Snell                                 (seal)

hereunto subscribed our names as witnesses

to the same.

                Cyrus Copeland

                Ralph Copeland

                Nathan Mitchell

 

Presented for probate on 17 Nov. 1823 by Benjamin Snell, the Executor therein named, and proved by Cyrus Copeland and Nathan Mitchell, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Benjamin Snell, the before named Executor.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 57, p. 414-415, from FHL microfilm #0550909.

 

 

Will of Charles Snell of Bridgewater, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1771) *

                                                In the Name of GOD, Amen,

I Charles Snell of Bridgwater in the county of Plymouth in New-England gentleman being Sick & weak in body, but of sound mind &  memory, praised be God for it; and considering the uncertainty of my life, do make & ordain this my last will & testament in maner & form following, that is to say, Principally and first of all I give & recomend my soul into the hands of God that gave it hoping for the pardon of all my sins through the alone merits & satisfaction of Jesus Christ my Lord & saviour and to inherit eternal life, my body to the earth I recomend to be decently buried at the discretion of my executors, and as touching such temporal estate as it hath pleased God to lend me I dispose of in the following manner.

Imprs. I order that my just debts & funeral charges be seasonably paid by my executors hereafter-named. –

Item, I give to my beloved wife Susannah Snell all my within doors movables and houshold furniture with all my provisions and also my youngest mare, and four cows to her and her heirs forever. Moreover I give to my wife one half of the improvement of my dwelling-house, & barn & corn-house & farm that I have within fence while she remains my widow; also I order the she has the improvement of the other half of the aforesaid premises for the term of three years, and I order that my wife bring up my two youngest children, viz, Abigail Snell & Shepard Shell to the age of seven years out of the improvement of the aforesaid premises, – and I also give all the pine boards in my corn-house, & as many shingles as is needful to shingle the roof of my house, to my wife for her to repare my house within and without. ~

Item, I give & bequeath to my son Charles Snell all my lands on the west side of the Bay-road, with my dwelling-house & barn standing thereon, and also my corn-house, and he is to come into possession of the one half of the aforesaid premises when he shall arive at the age of twentyone years, and the other half when my widow has done with it. To him, his heirs & assigns forever. And also two thirds of my wearing aparel & my best saddle & bridle, one half of my pew in the meeting-house, my youngest yoak of oxen, carts & wheels, plows & a log-chain, two draft-chains, iron-barr & all my hoes & axes. and I order my son Charles Shell to assist his mother in bringing up his brother Shepard Snell to the age of seven years, and to find his mother a sufficiency of fire wood brought to & cut off at the door. ~

Item, I give to my son Nathaniel Snell one third part of all my wearing-aparel, and one half of my pew in the meeting-house to him and his heirs forever.

Item, I give to my eldest daughter Silence Snell twenty six pounds, thirteen shillings & four pence lawful money, to be paid out of my estate by my executors when she shall arive to the age of twenty & one years. ~

Item, I give to my daughter Susannah Snell twenty six pounds, thirteen shillings & four pence lawful money, to be paid out of my estate when she arives to the age of twentyone years by my executor. –

Item, I order that my negro woman be sold, and all my quick stock, & husbandry-tools that I have not given away, and all my plank & boards & shingles besides what my wife is to have be sold to defray charges & to pay debts. Likewise I order that my executors sell so much of my nonimproved lands as shall be sufficient to pay the remainder of my debts, & the two legacies to my two eldest daughters; and the land that I order to be sold is part of the land that which I bought of Nathaniel Snell lying on the south side of the road that leads to Adam Howard’s begining at Jabez Field,s north corner the other lands at the east end of my Land next to Seth Harris, and any other part of my wild lands that may be most beneficial & least prejudicial. –

Item, I give & bequeath to my three sons Charles Snell, Nathaniel Snell & Shepard Snell, all my lands lying on the east side of the Bay-road, excepting the land that I have ordered to be sold; to be equally divided between the said Charles Snell, Nathaniel Snell & Shepard Snell quantity & quality, when my son Charles Snell comes to the age of twentyone years. ~

Item, I give & bequeath unto my two eldest sons Charles Snell & Nathaniel Snell my cedar swamp, & my part of the saw-mill standing on my land to be equally divided between the said Charles & Nathaniel, and if there be any estate that I have that is not disposed off, I give it to my three sons viz Charles, Nathaniel & Shepard Snell to be equally divided between them. ~

Item, I give & bequeath to my two youngest daughter viz Hannah Snell and Abigail Snell twentysix pounds, thirteen shillings & four pence apiece, to be paid to them when they shall arrive to the age of twentyone years, by my son Charles Snell for the reason that I have given him much more than I have to any one of my other children. therefore I order that my son Charles Snell pay to my daughter Hannah Snell twentysix pounds, thirteen shillings & four pence lawful money when she shall come to the age of twenty one years; and also that he pay to my daughter Abigail Snell twentysix pounds, thirteen shillings & four pence lawful money, when she shall come to the age of twenty one years.

Lastly, I apoint & ordain Capt. Barnabas Howard & Nathaniel Reynolds both of Bridgwater, my sole executors of this my last will & testament, and do hereby utterly disallow, revoke & disanul all & every other former testaments, wills, legacies & bequeaths & executors, by me in any way before named willed and bequeathed, ratifying & confirming this & no other to be my last will & testament.

In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand & seal this twenty third day of April anno Domini one thousand, seven hundred & seventy-one.

Signed, sealed, published, pronounced,

& declared by the said Charles Snell as his

Last will & testamt. in presence of us the subscribers.                                                  Charles Snell                                     (seal)

Jonathan Shurtleff, Jonathan Snell

                Simeon Alden. –

 

Presented for probate on 23 May 1771 by Barnabas Howard and Nathaniel Reynolds, the executors therein named, and proved by Jonathan Shurtleff and Jonathan Snell, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Barnabas Howard and Nathaniel Reynolds, the before named executors.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Charles Snell, late of Bridgwater, was appraised on 4 June 1771 by Shepard Fisk, Simeon Cary, and John Howard, and totaled £1526.7.0½, including his land on the west side of ye. Bay Road with the buildings valued at £420, land on the east side of the road valued at £744, and 43 acres of land he bought of his brother Nathl. Snell valued at £103.16. The appraisers gave their oath to the inventory on 10 June 1771.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 20, p. 532-533, from FHL microfilm #0550711, and Vol. 24, p. 30-31.

 

 

Will of Daniel Snell of Bridgewater, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1773) *

  In the Name of God Amen on the Eighth Day of December Anno Domini One Thousand Seven hundred & Seventy three I Daniel Snell of Bridgwater in the County of Plymouth Yeoman Labouring at Present under Some Bodily Indisposition yet Blessed be God am of a Sound & Disposing Mind & Memory & Do now Proceed to Make this my Last Will & Testament. In the first Place I Give & Recommend my Soul into the hands of the Great God that Gave it, Trusting in his Mercy thro Jesus Christ for Pardon Grace & Glory & my Body I Commit to the Earth to be Decently Buried at the Discretion of my Executors hereafter named and as to my Worldly Interest I dispose of in the following Manner Vizt. my Will is that my Debts & funeral Charges be paid by my Executors in Convenient Time after my Decease out of that Part of my Estate which I have Given them ~

Item I Give & Bequeath to my Well beloved Wife Johanna the Improvement of One Third Part of my Homestead Farm & Buildings & of my Pew in the Meeting House  I Give unto her for her Dispose Thirty Eight Dollars best Bed & Furnature Best Brass Kettle Best Looking Glass & Piliow & further I Give unto her the One half of my Household Goods that are not Particularly Mentioned in this Will further I Give unto her a Cow Which I Let to David Mahurin Last Spring upon a Lay She to have the Said Cow & another with it at the Three Years End also a Yearling Heifer which is called Hers the Improvement of the Real Estate to my Said Wife is to be understood during the Time She Shall Remain my Widow. also I Give unto her my Books of Divinity She to Dispose of Part of them Among the Children ~

Item I Give & Bequeath to my Son Daniel my Best Coat Wigg & Cane which together with what I have Given him & Done for him heretofore is his Part and Portion of my Estate ~

Item I Give to my Daughters Namely Susannah Orcutt & Joannah Hayward Six Shillings a Piece which together with what I have heretofore Given them is their Part & Portion of my Estate ~

Item I Give unto my Daughter Keziah Six Pounds thirteen Shillings & four Pence To be paid In Twelve Months after my Decease

Item I Give & Bequeath unto my Daughter Sarah Thirteen Shillings & four Pence to be paid in Twelve Months after my Decease.

Item I Give & Bequeath unto my Said Daughters Namely Keziah Lydia & Sarah the Other half of my House hold Goods which are not Particularly Mentioned in this Will (Excluding all Particular Articles of House hold Goods that I have Provided for any or all of them or they Provided for themselves & are now in my Dwelling House) to be Equally Divided between them.

Item I Give & Bequeath unto my sons Namely Benjamin & William Namely to them their Heirs & Assigns forever – My Home Farm & Buildings Pew in the Meeting House & my Interest in the Common & undevided Lands in Bridgwater to be Equally divided between them. Further I Give unto them my Quick Stock & all of my out of Door Moveables also my Second best Bed & Furnature my Desk Halyards Saddle & Bridle Cyder & meat And Dry Casks the Remainder of my apparrel & my Doctors Books. further I Give to them all my Other Personal Estate not Disposed of in this my Will In Equal Shares between them hereby Enjoyning them to pay all my Debts & Legacies before Mentioned in Equal Parts between them & In Case Either of them Shall Decease without Issue before Division then the Survivor to Enjoy all that is Give to them both & I Do hereby Nominate & Appoint them Executors of this my Last Will & Testament ~~

Item I hereby Order my Said son Benjamin to pay unto my said Son William Forty Dollars In Twelve Months after my Decease ~

Item I Give unto my Said Wife, Benjamin & William all the Famely Provisions that I Shall Die Seized of In Witness & Confirmation hereof I have hereunto Set my hand & Seal the Day & Year afores’d ~

Signed Sealed Pronounced

Published & Declared by the

Said Daniel Snell to be his                                                                                                            his

Last Will & Testament before us                                                                                     Daniel  X   Snell                                   (seal)

                Josiah Edson                                                                                                                 mark

                Daniel Conant

                Moses Orcutt

 

Presented for probate on 3 March 1777 by Benjamin Snell and William Snell, the Executors therein named, and proved by Daniel Conant and Moses Orcutt, two of the Witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Benjamin Snell and William Snell, the before named Executors.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Daniel Snell, late of Bridgwater, was appraised on 16 Jan. 1777 by Jacob Hayward, Seth Pratt, and Job Pratt, and totaled £447.18.10, including his Homestead with the Buildings valued at £300. The Appraisers gave their oath to the inventory on 25 Mar. 1777, and Benjamin Snell and William Snell, the Executors, gave their oath to the inventory on 7 Apr. 1777.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 24, p. 238-242, from FHL microfilm #0550713.

 

 

Will of Ephraim Snell of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1805) *

In the Name of God amen I Ephraim Snell of Bridgwater in the County of Plymouth Gentleman being of sound disposing Mind & Memory, thanks be to God for the same do this twenty second day of August in the Year of our Lord eighteen hundred and five make publish pronounce & declare this my last Will & Testament as followeth viz

 First I will that all my just debts funeral charges & such Legacies as is herein after willed & given shall be paid by my Executor herein after named —

 Item I give and bequeath to my Wife Hannah all that part of my household Furniture & indoor moveables that she brought to me when I married her, also two Cows one Heifer of three years old with calf, one yearling Heifer & my riding Mare to her use & benefit forever & I further give and bequeath to my Wife Hannah the use and Improvement of all the Improved part of my land & Buildings, herein after willed & given to my Youngest Son Ephraim for the time untill he the said Ephraim shall arrive to the Age of twenty one years excepting my land in Easton, she supporting and bringing up my two youngest daughters viz Polly and Hannah & giving to each of them as good an Education as she is able from her income to do, untill they shall arrive to the Age of eighteen years or to the day of Marriage if that should happen sooner, and him my said Son Ephraim untill he shall arrive to the Age of twenty one years – and also to give him as much schooling & as good an Education as she is able to do, and to put him out to apprenticeship if she shall think best at her discretion, and I further give to my wife Hannah a Sufficiency of Firewood cut & drawn to the door of my Dwelling house & cut fit for the Fire to support one Fire for so long time as she shall remain my Widow and no longer, and when my youngest Son Ephraim shall arve to the Age of twenty one years then my Will is that my wife Hannah shall have one third part of the use & improvement of my Real Estate & no more & to be taken equally from the land, which is herein after willed & given to my two Sons viz Jonathan & Ephraim & that she my said Wife shall have a right to cut on any of my unimproved Lands as much Timber as shall be necessary for fences & the repair of Buildings on her part of the Improvement but shall be taken equally from the Lands of my two Sons & her Fire wood shall also at all times be taken equally from the Lands of both my said Sons —

I further give to my Wife Hannah one half part of all the plank timber that is now down, & the other half to my Son Jonathan to be divided and taken off before any Division of the Land shall take place – And my Will is that all the produce of my Farm, which I have raised this present Year of every kind also a dry Cow which I have prepared for Beef & my Swine which is intended for pork, shall be spent in & for the General use of all my Family. —

 Item I give & bequeath to Amelia the Wife of Salmon Howard one undivided quarter part of all that part of my house hold Furniture & indoor moveables that was her Mothers, that I had previous to Marrying my present wife (excepting my Great Chair) & the Linen, she having received her proportion of that part also three Dollars & fifty cents to be paid her by my Executor herein after named this together with what I have heretofore given her I consider to be her full share of my Estate that I intended for her —

Item I give & bequeath to my Daughter Patty two hundred & Sixty Dollars to be paid her in one Year after my decease by my Son Jonathan also five Bushels of Indian Corn and two Bushels of Rye to be paid her annually for so long time as she shall remain unmarried to be done by my son Jonathan also one undivided third part of the linen Cloathes & one quarter of the residue of my household Furniture & indoor moveables that was her mother’s that I had previous to marrying my present wife —

 Item I give & bequeath to my daughter Semantha two hundred & Sixty Dollars to be paid her by my Son Jonathan in one Year after my decease also five Bushels of Indian Corn & two Bushels of Rye annually for so long time as she shall remain unmarried to be paid her by my Son Jonathan also one undivided third part of the Linen Cloath & one quarter of the Residue of my household Furniture & indoor moveables that was her Mother’s that I had previous to marrying my present Wife

 Item I give & bequeath to my Daughter Bathsheba two hundred & sixty Dollars to be paid her by my Son Jonathan in one Year after my Decease also five Bushels of Indian Corn & two Bushels of Rye annually to be paid her by my Son Jonathan for so long time as she shall remain single & unmarried. Also one undivided third part of the Linen & one quarter of the residue of my household Furniture and indoor moveables that was her Mother’s that I had previous to marrying my present wife —

Item I give and bequeath to my three daughters last named a privilege of living in that half of my Dwelling house which in the Division shall be set to my Son Jonathan, with the advantage of a Fire or fire wood & the keeping of a Cow in the Way & manner as I shall herein after order & direct him to do, for so long time as they shall remain single & no longer – I further give & bequeath to these my three Daughters last named the use & improvement of twenty square rods of Land for a Garden, to be set off to them from Jonathan’s part in a fertile place as near the Dwelling house as it can conveniently be had for their use so long as they or either of them shall remain single—

Item I give and bequeath to my two youngest daughter viz Patty & Hannah five hundred & twenty Dollars to be paid to them in equal half parts by my Son Ephraim when he shall arrive to the Age of twenty one years with Interest from & after they & each one of them for herself shall arve to the Age of eighteen Years, provided however that if it should so happen, that they or either of them should marry before my said Son Ephraim shall arve to full age, in that case it is my Will that the Guardian of him the said Ephraim shall sell & dispose of so much of the Land which I have herein given to him as shall be sufficient to pay the Legacy of such married daughter & at such place as will be the least prejudicial to the remaining part – I further give to these my two last mentioned Daughters the use & improvement of about twenty rods of Ground for a Garden to be set off to them from Ephraim’s part in a fertile place as near the Dwelling house as it can conveniently be had for their use so long as they or either of them shall remain unmarried and no longer, & shall have kept for them a Cow through the year for their use they finding such Cow for so long time as they shall remain unmarried & no longer I also give them a privilege to live and do their work in that part of the Delling house which shall be assigned to him the said Ephraim & shall have a privilege to work by his fire at all times while they or either of them shall remain single & no longer & shall be furnished with five Bushels of Indian Corn & two Bushels of Rye annually to each of them while remaining unmarried and no longer —

Item I devise and bequeath to my oldest Son Jonathan Snell his Heirs & Assigns forever one undivided half part of my Homestead Farm whereon I now live which contains in the whole by Estimation about ninety acres together with one undivided half part of all the Buildings thereon only reserving to my unmarried daughters such privileges & Improvements as I have herein before willed & given to them also about eight acres of upland & meadow lying at west Meadow so called and is bounded northerly by Thomas Ames & Ephraim Jackson easterly by Caleb Packard, southerly by Jonathan Copeland junr. westerly by Perez Williams Also one undivided half part of one other Lot of Meadow lying in said west Meadow & is bounded northerly by Marthew & Anna Snell Easterly by Caleb Snell, southerly by Richard Perkins & westerly by the Brook also one undivided half part of about three Acres & an half of swamp land lying in the old pine Swamp so called a little northeasterly from Caleb Kingmans. Also all my right in the first Great Lot in the West Cedar Swamp so called in said Bridgwater together with two undivided third parts of my farm lying in Easton in the County of Bristol, the whole of which contains by Estimation about forty four acres more or less including the use & Improvement of the other third part untill my Son Ephraim shall arrive to the Age of twenty one years and no longer, reserving a privilege to my Wife to pasture one Cow upon Condition that he my said Son Jonathan pay the several Legacies & perform the several Services, which I herein order & direct for him to do viz it is my will that my said Son Jonathan shall cut & draw to the door of my Dwelling house & cut suitable for the fire sufficient fire wood to support one fire at all times for the use of my Wife, & sufficient Timber and fencing stuff necessary to repair her part of the Buildings and for her part of the fence to be delivered at the place where the same shall be wanted & shall be taken equally from his Land which I have given him & from the Land which I have given to my Son Ephraim, shall also tend the Cattle for my Wife that she may keep during the Season of foddering in a careful and prudent manner provided she shall procure fodder & not otherwise & shall continue to do that Service for my Wife untill my Son Ephraim shall arrive to the Age of twenty one years provided she remains my Widow so long and not otherwise & when my said Son Ephraim shall arrive to the age of twenty one years then all the foregoing Services for my Wife shall be done in equal half parts by him & my Son Jonathan so long as she remains my Widow & no longer & shall pay the several Legacies which I have herein willed & ordered for him to pay in Money & in other Matters & things which I have willed & given to my daughters herein before named and I further give & bequeath to my Son Jonathan my Desk, my Great Chair & my wearing Apparel to his use & benefit forever —

Item I give, devise and bequeath to my Son Ephraim Snell his Heirs & Assigns forever one undivided half part of my homestead farm whereon I now live Which contains in the whole by Estimation about ninety acres together with one undivided half part of all the Buildings thereon, only reserving to my Wife & unmarried daughters such use & Improvement as I have herein before willed & given to them. – Also one Lot of Meadow lying in West Meadow & is bounded northerly by Issacher Snell easterly by Caleb Snell southerly Marthew & Anna Snell westerly by the Brook – Also one Lot of Cedar Swamp lying in the West swamp, it being the same Lot that I bought of Joshua Ames. Also one undivided half part of one other Lot of meadow lying in west meadow & is bounded Northerly by Marthew & Anna Snell Easterly by Caleb Snell southerly by Richard Perkins & westerly by the Brook – Also on undivided half part of about three acres & an half of swamp land lying in the old pine swamp so called a little north easterly from Caleb Kingman’s together with one undivided third part of my farm lying in Easton in the County of Bristol, the whole of which contains by Estimation about forty four acres more or less he my said son to come into possession when he shall arrive to the Age of twenty one years & not before, upon Condition that he my said Son Ephraim, when he shall arrive to the Age aforesaid shall pay the several Legacies & perform the several Services which I herein order & direct for him to do, viz It is my will that he shall cut from the Land which I herein give to him one half part of the firewood necessary to support one fire at all times and draw the same to the door of my Dwelling house & cut the same fit for the fire for the use of my Wife, also one half part of a sufficiency of Timber necessary to repair her part of the Buildings and for her part of the fence to be delivered at the place where the same shall be wanted for so long time as she shall remain my Widow & no longer, leaving the other half part to be done by my Son Jonathan, that he shall do & perform one half part of all the Services which I have herein ordered my Son Jonathan to do for my Wife during his Minorship. And shall pay all such Legacies as I have herein willed & ordered for him to pay and it is my will that my Son Ephraim furnish for the use of my two youngest daughters five Bushels of Indian Corn & two Bushels of Rye annually to each of them or either of them that shall remain unmarried after he shall arrive to full age, shall keep for them a Cow through the year for their use they finding the Cow, shall furnish them with room at his fire, or if he shall choose may furnish them with four Cords of Wood cut fit for the fire & at the door, but when married this provision which I have made for them in their unmarried State shall be discontinued from the day of Marriage—

 And my Will is further that my Son Jonathan in consideration of what I have herein given him shall furnish my three oldest unmarried Daughters viz Patty, Semantha & Bathsheba at his own Expence to each one of them for so long time as she shall remain single & unmarried five Bushels of Indian Corn & two Bushels of Rye annually and shall keep for these my three Daughters aforesaid one Cow the year round Summer & Winter fall & spring they providing such Cow at their Expence and shall be continued so long as two of them shall remain single but when it shall so happen that two of them shall be married then my said Son Jonathan shall not be holden to keep for them a Cow any longer, but shall furnish for such unmarried Daughter a like proportion of Milk as she had usually had to her part when said Cow was kept for them. But when married this provision which I have herein made for them in their unmarried State shall be discontinued from the day of Marriage, shall also permit then & each of them to do their necessary work at his fire at all times while remaining single, or if he shall choose furnish them with four Cords of Wood cut fit for the fire at the door. —

I give and bequeath to my wife Hannah and to my five Daughters viz Patty Semantha, Bathsheba, Polly & Hannah & Ephraim my Youngest Son theire several & respective Heirs & assigns forever my pew in the Congregational Meeting House in the West precinct in Bridgwater being one half part of the thirty second pew in Number to be equally owned between them –

I further give to my wife Hannah one yoke of oxen with the yoke Bows and Irons belonging to the same & six sheep to her use forever —

And I do hereby constitute and appoint my son Jonathan Snell to be sole Executor of this my last Will and Testament and to enable him to pay all my debts funeral Charges & having herein before enabled him to pay all Legacies & perform all other Services I put into his hands all my personal Estate & after paying all debts funeral Charges & and executing this my last Will in every part, I give devise & bequeath all the residue of my Estate both personal, real & mixed of What name or nature soever not herein before willed & given, to him my said Son Jonathan Snell his Heirs & assigns forever.– And I do hereby revoke disannul & render void & of none effect all other & former Wills, ratifying & confirming this and this only as & for my last will & Testament in Witness Whereof I the said Ephraim Snell the Testator have hereunto set my hand & Seal the day & Year first above written ~~

Signed, sealed, published, pronounced & declared by the

Said Ephraim Snell the Testator as & for his last Will and

Testament in the presence of us who by his request &

in his presence & we in the presence of each other

have hereunto subscribed our Names as witnesses                                                        Ephraim Snell                                   (seal)

                Perez Williams

                Caleb Snell

                Daniel Snow

 

Presented for probate on 4 Nov. 1805 by Jonathan Snell, the Executor therein named, and proved by Perez Williams and Daniel Snow Esqr., two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Jonathan Snell, the before named Executor.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

Daniel Snow Esqr., Jonathan Copeland yeoman, and Perez Williams Yeoman, all of Bridgwater, were appointed to divide between his Children Jonathan and Ephraim, the real estate of Ephraim Snell, late of Bridgwater, Gentleman, according to the direction of the deceased as expressed in his last Will & Testament, on 4 Nov. 1805. The division was dated 30 Nov. 1805, and approved on 22 Jan. 1811.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 40, p. 292-296, from FHL microfilm #0550901, and Vol. 43, p. 363-365.

 

 

Will of Joanna Snell of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1789) *

        In the name of God Amen—This twentyeth day of June anno Domini one thousand seven hundred & eighty nine, I Joanna Snell of Bridgwater in the County of Plymouth in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, widow, being infirm in body but of a sound and disposing mind & memory, do make and ordain this my last will & testament in manner & form following—viz~

1st I will that all my just debts & funeral charges be well & truly paid out of my estate in convenient time after my decease, by my Executor herein after named.

2ly I Give & bequeath to my Son Daniel Snell & to his heirs & assigns the sum of five shillings Lawful money

3ly I Give and bequeath to my Son Benjamin Snell and to his heirs & assigns the sum of five shillings Lawful money

4ly I Give and bequeath to my Son William Snell and to his heirs & assigns the sum of five shillings Lawful money.

5ly I Give and bequeath to my Daughter Susanna Orcutt the wife of Nathan Orcutt and to her heirs and assigns the sum of five shillings Lawful money

6ly I Give and bequeath to my Daughter Joanna Hayward the wife of Jacob Hayward, & to her heirs & assigns, the sum of five shillings Lawful money

7ly I Give & bequeath unto my Daughter Kezia Washburn, the wife of Jeremiah Washburn & to her heirs & assigns, the sum of five shillings Lawful money.

8ly I Give & bequeath to my Daughter Lydia Snell & to her heirs & assigns forever my three Cows & all my houshold furniture, & all my wearing apperel, my Gold necklace, ear rings & silver snuff box, & all the money due to me on notes or book Accounts together with all my other personal estate

9ly I Give and bequeath to my Daughter Sarah Perkins the wife of Nathan Perkins junr, and to her heirs & assigns, the sum of five shillings Lawful money

Lastly, I do hereby constitute and appoint Benjamin Willis Esqr Sole Executor of this my Last will & testament.—In Witness whereof I have hereunto Set my hand and Seal the day and year above written

Signed, Sealed, Published, Pronounced                                                                                       her

& declared by the said Joanna Snell as                                                                           Joanna  X  Snell                                (seal)

her Last will & testament in the pre-                                                                                           mark

sence of us the subscribers

                    his

        Josiah  X  Mahurin

                  mark

        Benja Willis junr

        Oliver Allen –

 

Presented for probate on 5 Oct. 1795 by Benjamin Willis Esqr., the Executor therein named, and proved by Benjamin Willis junr & Oliver Allen, two of the witnesses.

 

Eliphalet Cary Esqr, Samuel Kinsley, blacksmith, and Oliver Allen, yeoman, all of Bridgwater, were appointed to appraise the estate of Joanna Snell, late of Bridgwater, widow, on 5 Oct. 1795. The inventory of the estate of Joanna Snell, not dated, totaled $101.96. Benja Willis Esq., the executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 2 Nov. 1795.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 35, pp. 319-320, 328, from FHL microfilm #0550718.

 

 

Will of Jonathan Snell of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1796) *

  In the Name of God Amen. – The eighteenth day of September in the year of our Lord One thousand seven hundred & ninety six. – I Jonathan Snell of Bridgwater in the County of Plymouth & Comwealth of Massachusetts, yeoman, being of sound mind & memory thanks be to almighty God, and calling to remembrance the uncertainty of life, and that all flesh must yield to death when it shall please God to call, do make, constitute, ordain & declare this my last will & testament, in manner & form following, revoking by these presents all & every testament or wills heretofore by me made & declared, by word or writing. And first, being penitent & sorry for my sins past most humbly desiring forgiveness for the same, I give & commit my soul unto almighty God my saviour & redeemer in whom & by the merits of Jesus Christ, I trust & believe assuredly to be saved, and my body to be buried in such a place as shall please my Executor hereafter to appoint; and now for the settling of my temporal estate & such goods & debts as it hath pleased God to bestow upon me, I do order, give & dispose the same in manner & form following ~

  First.– I will, that all those debts & dues that I owe in right of conscience to any person shall be well & truly contented & paid or ordained to be paid within convenient time after my decease, by my Executors hereafter named.– And now, as touching my temporal estate and goods, I dispose of it in manner & form following

 Item – I Give & bequeath to my son Ephraim Snell, Ninety two acres & ½ of land situated in the westerly part of Bridgwater, aforesaid, together with the buildings thereon; said land being the westerly part of my homestead lands, except one lot of meadow which lyeth at the southerly end of my meadow, at west meadow, (so called) which contains two acres & a half; and ninety acres of sd. lands are bounded, as followeth, beginning at a black ash tree at the south west corner of Esqr Nathan Howards land & from thence east forty degrees south twenty two rods to a pine in or near said Howard’s range, and then south twenty degrees west sixty one rods & a quarter to a turn then east fifteen degrees south five rods to a turn, and then south thirty one degrees west twenty seven rods & three quarters to the range of Esqr. Richard Perkins’s land & then running westerly & southerly in ye range of said Perkins’s land to the road near George Williams’s dwelling house, and then running westerly by said road to James Howard’s lands, and then by said Howard’s lands to Elijah & Nathan Snell’s land, and then by the said Elijah & Nathan’s land to the drift way (so called) and then crossing said drift way & running on the southerly side of said drift way to a turn and then running northerly by the easterly side of said road to Elijah Snell’s lands, and then running in the range of the said Elijah Snell’s land, to the first bounds, said two acres & a half of meadow being & lying at west meadow as aforesaid, at the southerly end of my meadow at that place. and also, I give to my son Ephraim Snell, my Desk, & all as above described to be to the sd. Ephraim Snell and to his heirs & assigns forever. –

  Item – I Give & bequeath to my three eldest daughters namely, Martha Snell Sarah Snell & Ann Snell, eleven acres of land, being in four pieces; and one half of my dwelling house, being the southerly half & one third of my cellar under said house & a privilege in my well of water by said house, and also, a privilege to lay their fire wood in my door yard, and each of them a seat in my Pew in the meeting house; and also, a privilege in my old barn, that is ten feet in the east Center & twenty feet of Scaffolding next to ye. double doors & a privilege to pass to & from said barn with a team & Cart as need requires, and also, a privilege of keeping, each of them a Sheep in Caleb’s pasture, and also, one half of my Garden to improve as long as they remain in an unmarried state; and also, I Give to my three eldest daughters, all my indoor moveables, except one meat tub, one meal chest & my Barrells, and my Clock or time piece which I give to my son Caleb Snell; all to be equally divided betwixt them, namely Martha, Sarah, & Ann; Said pieces of land are as follows – three acres one quarter & sixteen rods, called the south pasture, as it is now fenced, and two acres & thirty rods called the old orchard, south of the old barn; and three acres of wood land at edge hill, so called, bounded, as follows, beginning at the northernmost bounds of my lands at said edge hill on the westerly side of the road and running southerly on the westerly side of said road forty rods, and then turning & running westerly ‘till it intersects Esqr Nathan Howard’s range forty two rods southerly from the bounds first mentioned, and also, two acres & a half at west meadow, being the middle lot of my meadow at that place, extending from the upland to the brook.– all as above described, to be equally divided betwixt my three eldest daughters, namely, Martha Snell, Sarah Snell & Ann Snell. –

Item.– I Give to my daughter, Sarah Snell, one Cow.

Item – I Give to my daughter Mary Burr Twenty Eight Dollars to be paid by my Executors hereafter named one year after my decease.–

  Item.– I Give to my Son Caleb Snell one Hundred & Eleven acres of land in Bridgwater aforesaid, lying & being in three pieces: four acres & a half of said land being at west meadow, two acres & a half of meadow being my northernmost lot of meadow at that place, and two acres of upland, east of said meadow, the second piece being about eight acres, south-east of the old west meeting house on the north side of town river (so called) the third piece being the south-easterly part of my homestead, and contains about ninety nine acres, being all the south-easterly part of my homestead, except about eight acres & a half that I give to my three eldest daughters, and is bounded easterly by ye country road, and by said road to my daughter’s lands, and westerly, partly by my daughters lands, & partly by David Howard’s lands, and partly by Doctor Perkins’s lands & northerly by the lands which I have given to my Son Ephraim Snell, and partly on Howards lands & partly by my daughters wood lands to the road.– and also I give to my Son Caleb Snell, the northerly half of my dwelling house which I now live in, & two thirds of the cellar & all my old barn except that part which I give to my daughters, & all my new barn & my corn barn; and also, I give to my son Caleb Snell, all my live stock, which is not disposed of & all my farming tools or utensills; and also, I give to my son Caleb one meat tub, one meal chest & all my barrels, & my time piece as aforesaid.– and give to my sons, Ephraim & Caleb, all my right in my Pew, which I have not disposed of

  Item.– I Give to my son Thaddeus Snell, one Hundred and fifty Pounds Lawful money of this Commonwealth, to be paid by my Executors hereafter named; also, I give to my Son William Snell Two Hundred Pounds Lawful Money of this Commonwealth to be paid by my Executor hereafter named, and I give to my four sons namely, Ephraim Snell, Thaddeus Snell, William Snell, & Caleb Snell, all my wearing apparell, to be equally divided betwixt them, and also, I ordain & will, that all the legacies, that I have given, or ordered to be paid to my sons, namely Thaddeus Snell & William Snell, be paid within one year after my decease; and further, I do ordain constitute & appoint my sons, namely, Ephraim Snell & Caleb Snell, to be the Executors of this my last will & testament; and furthermore, my will is, that my son Ephraim Snell shall and do pay One Hundred & Fifty Pounds of the legacies which I have ordered to be paid to my sons, & also, my will is, that my son Caleb Snell shall pay Two Hundred Pounds of the legacies to be paid to my sons Thaddeus & William; and further, I ordain that my son Caleb Snell pay to my daughter Mary Burr Twenty eight Dollars, one year, after my decease as abovesaid; and furthermore, I ordain that my son Caleb Snell pay all my just debts & my funeral charges.– And, I do hereby utterly disallow, revoke & disannul, all & every other former testament, wills, legacies, bequests & Executors, by me in any way before named, willed & bequeathed, ratifying & confirming this & no other, to be my last will & testament. – In Witness whereof, I have hereunto set my hand & seal this Eighteenth day of September, and in the year of our Lord, One thousand seven hundred & ninety six. ~

Signed Sealed, Published, Pro-

nounced & declared by ye. sd. Jona-                                                                                Jonathan Snell                                  (seal)

than Snell to be his last will & tes-

tament in the presence of us, who in

his presence & in ye presence of each

other hereunto subscribed our names. –

                Ebenezer Copeland junr

                        Elijah Snell junr

                        Elijah Snell –

 

Presented for probate on 2 Feb. 1801 by Ephraim Snell and Caleb Snell, the Executors therein named, and proved by Elijah Snell and Elijah Snell junr, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Ephraim Snell and Caleb Snell, the before named Executors.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 37, p. 389-392, from FHL microfilm #0550719.

 

 

Will of Josiah Snell of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Massachusetts Bay (1784) *

In the Name of God Amen – This tenth day of December one thousand Seven Hundred & Eighty four, I. Josiah Snell of Bridgwater in the County of Plymouth in the Commonwealth of the Massachusetts bay in New England Gentleman being infirm of body but of perfect mind and memory, thanks be to God, Calling to mind the mortality of my body and knowing that it is appointed to all men once to die do make and ordain this my Last will and testament, that is to say first of all, I Recommend my Soul into the hands of God who Gave it, and my body to the Earth by a decent burial at the discretion of my Executors, nothing doubting but that at the General Resurrection, I shall Recieve it again by the mighty power of God, and as touching that worldly Estate which God has blessed me with I Give and dispose of in the following manner and form

Item –I Give and bequeath to my Eldest Son Josiah Snell junr. about Fifty Six acres of Land in the west Shares of the north two mile additional Grant of Land to Bridgwater, and it Lieth joining upon the north Side of the high way that Goes by Capn. Zebedee Snell and Lyeth forty Rods wide, and Runs north for the Length two Hundred and twenty four Rods to Nathan Snells Land, and all as above described and Set fourth is to be to the abovesaid Josiah Snell junr. his Heirs and assigns forever

Item – I Give and bequeath to my Son Elijah Snell about Forty Eight acres of Land where his dwelling House and Barn Stands, and more, I Give to my sd Son Elijah Snell about Fifty Seven acres of Land in the west Shares of the north two mile additional Grant to Bridgwater and it Lyeth joining upon the north Side of the high way that Goes by Capn. Zebedee Snells and Lyeth forty rods wide and the west Line Runs north as the Other Lots do, and the west Line is two Hundred and twenty four Rods Long and the north west Corner is a heap of Stones & a Stake about four Rods west from the South west Corner of the Land that was Isaac Packards and thence East one degree north to Reynolds Land & thence South to Pratts Land, and thence is bounded by the sd. Pratts Land to the high way and first bounds, and more I Give to my sd Son Elijah Snell the one half of my Pew in the meeting House, and more one Sixteenth part of the town Saw mill so Called and furthermore my will is that my sd. Son Elijah Snell should have the privilege of passing and Repassing across his brother Nathan Snells meadow and upland at west meadow to draw his hay from over the brook in said meadow annually at the Season of Hay time so Long as he shall need it, and as soon as the sd. Nathan Snell can conveniently Cut the Grass in order for the drawing Hay from over the brook with his team, and more I Give to the sd Elijah Snell one Cow and my silver headed Sword and belt, and all as above described and Set forth is to be to the sd. Elijah Snell his Heirs & assigns forever. –

Item –I Give and bequeath to my Son Nathan Snell about Eighty five acres of Land be the same more or Less, it being my Homestead Lands together with all the buildings thereon, and the said Land is bounded Southerly by Jonathan Snells Land and high way, and the bounds at the South west Corner is a white Oak tree marked, and thence Runs north Fifty Rods to a Rock with Stones upon it, and thence north forty four degrees East Seventeen Rods & a half to a Rock with Stones upon it, and thence north Sixty eight Rods to the end of a Stone wall and thence north forty four degrees East fourteen Rods by the said wall to the high way, and thence north forty Seven degrees west by the north Side of the sd high way nineteen Rods to the East end of a pair of bars, and thence north fifteen degrees East Sixteen Rods to a Rock, and thence north forty one degrees west nine Rods & a half to a Rock and thence west twenty one degrees north Seven Rods to a Rock, and thence north twelve degrees west Sixty two Rods & three Quarters to a Small white Oak standing in or near the south Range of Jonathan Copelands meadow & thence Easterly and is bounded by the sd Copelands Land and Jacob Packards Land, and Easterly is bounded by Jonathan Copeland junrs. Land and Easterly it is bounded by Elijah Snells Land and the dreft way so Called to the first bounds, and more, I Give to my son Nathan Snell about Eighty five acres of Land Lying in the west Shares of the north two mile additional Grant of Land to Bridgwater be the sd more or Less and is bounded as follows and Lyeth joining to the north Side of the high way by Capn. Zebedee Snells Dwelling House and Lyeth about forty Eight Rods wide and Runs north as the other Lots do for the Length and is two Hundred and twenty four Rods Long that breadth and then buts against the South Range of a twenty three acres of Land that is a part of the abovesaid Eighty five acres of Land, the said twenty three acres of Land Lyeth in Length East and west about ninety two Rods & in breadth north & South about forty two Rods & a half, and the south Range of it joins a part of the way upon the north end of Josiah Snells junrs. Land and at the Easterly end it joins partly upon the head of Elijah Snells Land, and more I Give to my Son Nathan Snell about ten acres of Land joining to the East side of the Road upon Salisbury plane, and it Lyeth about thirty Six Rods wide upon the said Road and Runs Easterly to the Land that was Lorings, and more I Give him the one half of my Pew in the meeting House, and more I Give him one Eighth part of the town Saw mill so Called, and more I Give him one Sixteenth part of the Saw mill by Thomas Reynolds’s in the north Precinct and more I Give him my Negro man named Cuff upon these Conditions & my will is that my son Nathan should be kind to the said Cuff as he has been a Good faithful Servant, and for encouragement to him should Let the sd Cuff have a Good piece of Ground to Garden upon annually so Long as he fancies the work, and that my sd. Son Nathan Let the sd Cuff have time to work in the Garden and Let him have dung to put in the sd. Garden and advise him in and about said work and wisely & prudently encourage him, and more I Give to my Son Nathan Snell my Log Chain and all my Other Chains and all my husbandry tools and joiners tools and implements and my biggest meat tub and my hogshead & Barrells and my Desk and my best Chest & my watch or time piece, & my part of the Books that I bought with him, and my part of the Chaise & furniture and one yoke of oxen, that is to say if I should have them and my Horse kind & Saddle & furniture, and all as above described and Sett forth is to be to the said Nathan Snell his Heirs and assigns forever, and furthermore it may be Remembered and understood that all the pieces & parcells of Land that I have Given to my three Sons above named are all Lying and being within the Township of Bridgwater. & furthermore my will is that my three Sons above named should have my wearing apparell

Item – I Give and bequeath to my daughter Rhoda Copeland Twenty pounds Lawful Silver money, and more, I Give her the one half of my Stock of Creatures throughout that are not disposed of, that is to Say Cattle Sheep & Swine, and more I Give to my daughter Rhoda Copeland the one half of my Houshold Stuff that is not disposed of, and the one half of the Houshold Stuff that was her mothers, it being one half of the Bed & furniture belonging to them, and the one half of the Linnen, and the one half of the pewter and Iron and brass and the one half of the tables & Case of Draws & Chests & Chairs, and more I Give to my daughter Rhoda my Looking Glass and one Silver Spoon, and all as above described and Sett forth is to be to the sd Rhoda Copeland her Heirs and assigns forever. –

Item – I Give and bequeath to my Eight Grand Children that my daughter Anna Hayward Left, who is Late of Bridgwater deceased Twenty pounds Lawful Silver money, and to be equally divided among the sd. Eight Grand Children and more I Give to the Five Sons that the said Anna Hayward Left the one half of my Quick Stock of Creatures that are not disposed of, of Cattle, Sheep and Swine, and are to be equally divided amongst them, and more I Give to the three daughters of the said Anna Hayward deceased & my Grand Daughter Abigail Howard the wife of James Howard Junr. the one half of my Houshold Stuff and that, that was their Grand mothers that is not disposed of, it is the one half of the Bedding, the furniture belonging to them, and the one half of the Linnen, and the one half of the pewter and Iron and brass and the one half of the Chests and Case of Draws & tables & Chairs, and all to be divided equally betwixt my four Grand daughters Last mentioned, and all as it is described and Sett forth to the above described Grand Children males & females is to be to them and their Heirs and assigns forever; and my will is that the above mentioned Legacies should be paid in one year after my decease by my Executors, and furthermore I do now appoint, Constitute & ordain my Son Elijah Snell, and my son Nathan Snell to be the Sole Executors of this my Last will and testament; and further my will is that after my decease that my executors Call in all my debts in Order to pay my debts and in Order to pay off the Legacies to the Several persons that they are Given to, and Likewise that they Sett out the parts of my Quick stock to the Several persons they are Given to, and Likewise to Set out the Houshold Goods & pewter, and all as it is Given to the Several persons as above described—and furthermore my will is that my Executors do with the half of the debts that are due to me & with what they may find in my hands of Estate that is not disposed of, that they pay off the said Legacies to the several persons as above described & Sett forth, and in Case their should not be enough found to pay off the Legacies, my will is, that my said Executors Should pay them out of the Estate that I have Given them, but in Case their be enough and to Spare, my will is that what is Left should be equally divided betwixt my two Executors, and in Case their should be any Debts of my own should appear hereafter that ought to be paid they must pay them, and in Case their should be any Estate appear to be mine that is not disposed of, or any Estate that should hereafter appear to be mine, my will is that my said Executors to this will should have it betwixt them, and I do by these presents utterly disannul all other wills and bequeaths, Executors, Ratifying this to be my Last will & testament In witness whereof I have hereunto Set my hand and Seal the day and year above mentioned ~

Signed Sealed published pronounced and

declared by the said Josiah Snell as his                                                                           Josiah Snell                                       (seal)

Last will & testament in the presence of

us the Subscribers ~

                Josiah Williams junr

                William Snell

                Simeon Packard

 

Presented for probate on 5 Sept. 1785 by Elijah Snell and Nathan Snell, the Executors therein named, and proved by Josiah Williams Junr. and William Snell, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Elijah Snell and Nathan Snell, the before named Executors, with Josiah Snell Gentm. And Josiah William junr, yeoman, all of Bridgwater, as sureties.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 29, p. 362-367, from FHL microfilm #0550715.

 

 

Will of Martha Snell of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1817) *

In the name of God amen I Martha Snell of Bridgwater in the County of Plymouth Singlewoman being of sound Mind & Memory, Thanks be to God for the same I do this twenty third day of August in the Year of our Lord Christ one thousand eight hundred & seventeen, make, publish, pronounce & declare this my last Will and Testament—

        First my Will is that all my just Debts, that I shall owe at the time of my Decease & funeral Expences shall be paid by my Executor herein after named & from Estates herein after willed and bequeathed to him for that purpose. —

        Item I give & bequeath to Caleb Snell’s three Children, namely Sarah Snell, Ann Snell and Edwin Snell at the right Title & Interest, I have in the Dwelling house, which my Hond. Father Jonathan Snell, gave me in his last will, together with all my right in Cellar & Well of Water, & Door yard to their use & Benefit forever, I also give unto them the said Sarah, Ann & Edwin all the Demand I have against the Estate of Caleb Snell excepting fifty Dollars, which Sum I order my Executor hereafter named to pay Thaddeus Snell & the Heirs of William Snell, if recovered –

        Item I give and bequeath to Amelia Howard the Wife of Capn. Salmon Howard all the Right, Title & Interest, I have in the Land, my Hond. Father gave me in his last Will, also my best Bed & Bedding to her use & Benefit forever.—

        Item I give & bequeath to Thaddeus Snell, twenty Dollars out of the Demand against Caleb Snell if recovered & not otherwise, to his use & Benefit forever to be paid by my Executor hereafter named–

        Item I give & bequeath to William Snell’s three Children thirty Dollars namely Edward Snell David Snell & Sarah Snell to be equally divided between them out of the Demand against Caleb Snell if recovered & not otherwise; to their use & Benefit forever to be paid by my Executor hereafter named. —

        Item, I give & bequeath to Capn. Salmon Howard, who I do hereby ordain constitute & appoint sole Executor of this my last Will & Testament, all my household Furniture not herein before disposed of, to his use & Benefit forever together with all my other Estate whether real, personal or mixed of what name or nature soever not herein before by me willed & bequeathed that doth of right to me belong at the time of my decease – to him my said Executor forever.—And after paying all my just Debts funeral Expences, & all the Legaises herein by me willed & bequeathed if there shall be any Surplussage of Money in his hands remaining, I will & bequeath the Same to him my said Executor forever. —

Signed, sealed, published, pronounced & declared by her the said

Martha the Testator as her last Will & Testament in the

presence of us & we in presence of each other —                                                         Martha Snell                                     (seal)

                Galen Howard

                Asa Packard

                Abiezer Alger

 

 

Presented for probate on 6 Oct. 1817 by Salmon Howard, the Executor therein named, and proved by Galen Howard and Abiezer Alger, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Salmon Howard, the before named Executor.

No inventory of her estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 49, p. 56-57, from FHL microfilm #0550905.

 

 

Will of Zachariah Snell of Bridgewater, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1765) *

This seventeenth day of October one thousand, seven hundred, & sixty five, ~ I Zachariah Snell of Bridgwater in the county of Plymouth yeoman, being infirm of body, but of perfect mind & memory thanks be to God, calling to mind the mortality of my body, and knowing that it is appointed to all men once to die do make & ordain this my Last will & testament, that is to say first of all I recomend my soul into the hands of God who gave it, and my body to the earth by a decent burial at the discretion of my executor nothing doubting but that at the general resurrection I shall receive it again by the mighty power of God; and as touching that worldly estate which God has blessd. me with, I give & dispose of it in the following manner and form. ~

        Imprs. I give & bequeath to Abigail my welbeloved wife, one third part of the improvement of my homestead lands during her natural life, together with one third part of my dwelling house & barn & corn-house said term, and all my indoors moveables of bedding & furniture pewter & brass & iron, & every thing beside my own apparel & horse furniture & husbandry tools, and my said wife is to have the intrest of sixty six pounds thirteen shillings & four pence Lawful money, during the said term of her natural life, to be at her dispose said term, and my will is that my said son Issachar Snell shall find her fire wood cut at the door fit for the fire annually in health & in sickness during said term of life, and that he shall find her two cows kept well winter & summer anually sd. term, & in case my said wife should be sick at any time or times my will is that my said son Issachar should find her a nurse suitable as the care may require, and my will is that my said wife shoud. have the abovesd. indoors moveables as above set to her, & to be to her, her heirs & assigns forever.

        Item, I give & bequeath to my eldest son Issachar Snell whom I likewise constitute, make, & ordain to be the sole executor of this my Last will and testament, and my will is that my said son Issachar Snell shoud. have about two hundred & eighty acres of Land & meadow lying & being in Bridgwater, & partly within the eight mile square, & part within the two mile additional grant, and mostly on the easterly part of my lands, and is to be bounded northerly by the Land I give to my son Zebedee Snell which is hereafter to be set forth & bounded, & is to be bounded southerly & easterly by the Land of Elisha Dunbar, & westerly by the Lands I give to my son Ebenezer Snell, hereafter to be bounded & set forth, and also two thirds of my dwelling house, & barn & corn house during his mother,s natural life, and after her decease, my will is that my said son Issachar should have the whole of the said buildings standing on the said Land, together with my right in the undivided lands in Bridgwater, & the meadow I bought of Dean. Shaw lying upon +     + river, joining to Thomson,s meadow there, & joining to the said Issachar Snell,s other meadow there, & my cedar swamp in Cutting-cove-swamp lying in the ninth lot of the first division, and all my husbandry tools, & all my stock of creatures & one third part of my apparel, and all as above described and set forth, to be to the said Issachar Snell his heirs & assigns forever. ~

        Item, I give & bequeath to my son Zebedee Snell about one hundred & forty one acres of Land lying at the north end of my land (in the west Shares of the north two mile additional grant to Bridgwater, together with the dwelling house & barn standing thereon, the Land is bounded northerly by the highway that is Laid out on the south sides of Thomas Reynold,s – house & runs westerly betwixt the Lands of Josiah Snell & my own lands, & lies about one hundred & fifty six rods in breadth east & west, & runs southerly from the said highway, & in the west range of the sd. Thos. Reynold,s Land one hundred & forty eight rods to a stake & stones, & thence runs west one degree & a third part of a degree south to a range of marked trees about one hundred & fifty six rods to a stake & stones, & thence north one hundred & forty eight rods to the sd. highway, & thence east one degree & 1/3d. north by the said highway to the first bounds, and more five acres of meadow at Leaches-meadow, bounded southerly by the lot of meadow that was Giles Leach,s, & so to extend northerly so far as to make the sd. five acres, & all the creatures that I have already given him, & one sixteenth part of the saw-mill by Thomas Reynold,s, & one third part of cloaths & apparel, & all as above described is to be to the said Zebedee Snell his heirs & assigns forever.–

        Item, I give & bequeath to my son Ebenezer Snell about one hundred & fifty acres of Land & a dwelling house & barn standing thereon, and is bounded as followeth, about ninety acres of it lies within the eight mile square of Bridgwater, Begining at a stake & stones standing in the four mile line so called, & in the middle of the south line of my land in the sd. west shares, & thence east one degree & a third part of a degree north thirteen rods to a stake, & thence south three degrees east forty five rods to a stake & stones, & thence east eight degrees south, twelve rods to the brook & thence southerly by the brook to the highway, & thence southeast four rods to two maples marked, & thence southwest seven rods to a stake & stones & thence south, thirtynine degrees east, thirtysix rods to a stake, & thence south nine degs. east ten rods & an half by a ditch, & thence southerly six rods by sd. ditch, & thence south forty four degs. east eighteen rods & an half to a maple tree marked, and thence east two degs north ten rods & an half to the brook, & thence southerly, & bounded by the said brook about eighty rods to the aforesd. Zebedee Snell,s five acres of meadow, & thence westerly & bounded by the sd. five acres until it meets with Dunbar,s land, & thence northwesterly, & bounded by sd. Dunbar,s land, & Dcr. Bryant,s Land, & Loring,s Land, & so northerly to cross the road, & so to the southwest corner of my Lands, in the west shares, being a heap of stones betwixt the eighth & ninth lotts in sd. shares, & in the four mile line, & thence runs north in the said line betwixt the eighth & ninth Lots in the said west shares, one hundred & twenty four rods to a stake & stones, & thence east one degree & one third part of a degree north, seventy eight rods to a stake & stones, & thence south one hundred & twenty four rods to the first bounds, & more my lot of meadow at west-meadow, which I bought of Ephraim Willis, & one sixteenth part of my saw-mill by Thomas Reynold,s. & more one third part of my apparel & cloaths, and all my creatures that I have already given him, and all as above described & set forth is to be unto the said Ebenezer Snell his heirs & assigns forever. ~

        Item, I give & bequeath to my daughter Abigail Haward all the beding & household-stuff that she has already in her possession, and my will is that she shall have thirty acres of Land in the fourth Lot of the west shares in the north two miles additional grant of Lands to Bridgwater, it being the land I bought of John Snell lying to the south of Joseph Cole,s Land, and more I give to my said daughter sixtysix pounds, thirteen shillings & four pence lawfl. money to be paid her by my executor after my wife,s decease, and all as above described and set forth, is to be to her, her heirs and assigns forever. ~

        And furthermore my will is that my executor pay off the Legacies with the notes of hand I have by me, and that my said wife shall have free liberty to live with which of my sons she shall please to live with, and shall have house-room in any of their houses without costs or charge. And do by these presents utterly disallow, revoke & disanul all other wills & bequeaths, executors, ratifying this to be my Last will & testament.—In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand & seal, the day & year above-mentioned. —

Signed, sealed, published & declared                                                                              Zachariah Snell                                (seal)

In presence of us.                 Elijah Snell

                                                Elijah Copeland

                                                Nathan Snell

 

Presented for probate on 6 June 1768 by Issachar Snell, the Executor therein named, and proved by Elijah Copeland and Nathan Snell, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Issachar Snell, the Executor.

 

The Inventory of the estate of Zachariah Snell, late of Bridgewater, was appraised on 2 June 1768 by Shepard Fisk, Jonathan Perkins, and Nehemiah Lincoln, and totaled £1997.18.8, including 583½ acres of upland, swamp and meadow with buildings thereon valued at £1718.0.4, and sundry notes of hand totaling £76.12.4.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 20, p. 75-78, from FHL microfilm #0550711.

 

 

Will of Benjamin Snow of Bridgewater, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1738) *

In the Name of God Amen September the 12. 1738, I Benjamin Snow of Bridgwater in the County of Plymouth in New England Husbandman being now of Disposeing mind & Memory, thanks be given to the great god, yet calling to mind the Mortallity of my body and knowing that it is appointed for all men once to die do make and ordain this my last will and Testament that is to say principally and first of all I give and Recommend my Soul into the hand of that God who Gave it & my body I recommend to the Earth to be buried with decent Christian Burial at ye. Discretion of my Executor hereafter named, Nothing doubting but at the Generall Resurrection I Shall Receive ye. Same again by the allmighty power of the Sovereign God and as touching such worldly Estate wherwith it hath pleased the Lord to bless me in this life I Give demise & dispose of the same in the following manner & form that is to Say~~~

1st. It is my Will that all my Debts and funerall Charges be well & truly paid in convenient time after my Decease—

2ly. I order and appoint my well beloved son Ebenezer Snow who is Sole Executor of this my last will & Testament to take care of my wellbe Loved wife Sarah after my Decease, to provide for her a Suitable & Comfortable support

3ly. It is my Will that that the Deed which I gave to my yonguest son Ebenezer may stand good without any molestation I allso give & bequeath unto my son the sd Ebenezer all my Irons of all sorts which belong to my Out Door work & my Grindstone –

4ly. I and bequeath unto my Well beloved sons Benjamin Soloman and Ebenezer Snow all my wearing Cloaths and my right in undivided land to be Equally divided amongst them besides what I have given them or either of them in times past –

5ly. All my books I give & bequeath unto my three sons & two daughters Rebecca and Eliza to be Equally Divided among them—

6ly. I Give and bequeath unto my Grandson Seth Pratt the son of my daughter Sarah deceasd One Cow or ten pounds to be paid him out of mye Moveable Estate not above disposed of by my Executor when he comes to ye Age of twenty years & One

7ly. I Give and bequeath unto my two beloved Daughters Rebecca Campbell and Elizabeth Carver all my other Moveable Estate not above disposed of, after my wifes decease only it is to be understood that the Ten pounds above given to my Grandson is to be first taken out of My Moveables. –

Finally I Constitute and Ordain my Well beloved son Ebenezer Snow Sole Executor of this my last will and testament hereby Ratyfieing and holding this and no other to be my last Will & Testament disallowing all other Wills before this time by me made in witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand & Seal the day & year Above written

Signed Sealed Published

pronounced & Declared by                                                                                               Benja Snow                         (seal)

the sd. Benja Snow as

his last will & Testamt

in Presence of us the Subscribers

Josiah Edson Junr.

Nathan Basset

John Washburne junr.

 

Probated on 6 June 1743, and proved by Josiah Edson Junr, Nathan Basset and Jno. Washburne Junr., the witnesses. Letters of Administration granted to Ebenezer Snow of Bridgwater, the Executor, on 6 June 1743.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 9, p. 83-84, from FHL microfilm #0551533.

 

 

Will of Seth Snow 1st, of Augusta, Oneida County, New York (1812) *

In the name of God ~ Amen ~ I Seth Snow 1st of the town of of Augusta County of Oneida & State of New York being advanced in years & infirm in body, but enjoying my perfect Judgmen & all my mortal facilities (blessed be Almighty God for the same) do make & publish this my last will & testament in manner & form following

(Viz.) First & do give & bequeath my Sons Simeon Snow, Seth Snow & Jonathan Snow & my daughters Huldah, the wife of Jonathan Snow, Sally the wife of Joshua Richmond & Bethia the wife of Asaph Larabee the Sum of one Dollar each. I do also will & bequeath my grand daughter Betsey Larabee (child) one Cow, & my grand daughter [_?_]** Ranken (child) Two Cows & my large bible, which Several legacies it is my will & I—: hereby order paid to the legatees at any time when requested after the expiration of one year after my decease—   I do also give & bequeath to my daughter Susannah wife of Mathew Ranken the remainder of my estate personal & real Stock, Goods, Chattels of whatsoever name or nature. And I do also appoint the last named persons Matthew Ranken & Susanah Ranken Sole Executor & executrix of this my last Will & testament, hereby revoking all Former wills by me made, in witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand & seal this twentyeth day of January in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred twelve—

Signed, sealed, published & declared by

the above named Seth Snow 1t to be                                                                                                       Mark

his last will & testament in the presence                                                                         Seth    X     Snow 1t          (seal)

of us who have hereunto subscribed our

names as witnesses in presence of the

testator                  Isaac Chadwick

                                James Ranken

                                Ihm[John?] Chadwick

 

I certify the foregoing to be a True Copy of the Original will of Seth Snow as the same was proven by the subscribing witnesses thereto before me this 7th day of July 1812—   Joshua Hathaway Surrogate

I further certify that on the seventh day of July one thousand Eight hundred & Twelve came before me Isaac Chadwick & James Ranken two of the Subscribing witnesses to the foregoing Will & being duly sworn depose & say that they saw the Testator to the foregoing will execute the same & that they heard him declare the same as & for his last will & Testament & that they subscribed the same as witnesses in his presence & in the presence of each other & that he appeared to be sound & disposing mind & memory at the time he executed the same—   before me J. Hathaway surrogate

I further certify that the death of the said Seth Snow was proven on the Oath of Matthew Ranken who was sworn as Executor also before me this 7th day of July 1812.   J. Hathaway Surrogate

 

Letters of Administration were given to Matthew Ranken, Executor, on 7 July 1812.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Oneida County Wills, Vol. 1, p. 336-337, from FHL microfilm #0381369.

** Gertrude A. Barber, in her Abstracts of wills of Oneida County, N.Y., From 1798-1822, Vol. 1, lists the granddaughter’s name as “Patty,” but I could not verify the name from the microfilmed recorded copy of the will.

 

 

Will of William Snow Senr, of Bridgewater, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1699) *

I William Snow senr of Bridgwater in the county of New-Plymouth being sound in Judgment & memory Do ordain & make this my Last will & Testament in maner following my Imortall soul I doe Humbly Resign in to the mercifull hands of almighty god my creator hopeing thrô ye merits & mediation of Jusus Christ to obtain pardon & salvation—My body I comitt to the Earth whence it was taken to be Decently buried at the Discresion of my Executor & other of my Cristian frends for my outward Estate that god hath Lent me I have disposed of a Considerable part of my Lands to my sons Joseph snow & my son Benjan Snow as by Deeds may appear I haveing other Lands not yet Disposed of & being very weak & Lame and my wife being aged both of us not able of our selves to suply our wants without the help of some body else my son william Snow having promised to provide for us Dureing our naturall Lives I Count it but reason to Gratifie him in Some measure for his Care & trouble I having some out Lands not yet Disposed of Doe give to my son William Snow all my out Lands already Divided not yet Disposed of to him & his heirs forever I haveing a purchas Righte in the Commons of Brigwater my will is that my son William snow shall injoy one third part of that my undivided Land to him & to his heirs for ever my will is that my two sons Joseph & benjamin Snow shall Enjoy the Rest of my purchas Rite in the undivided Lands of Bridgwater to be Equally Divided to them & to their heirs forever. My will is that my four Daughters namely Mary Lidia Hannah & Rebeckah shall Enjoy all my moveables after my decease & my wifes what is then Left to be Equally Divided amongst them four . . . .

I Doe appoint my son William Snow to be sole Executor of this my Last will & tesstament Revoaking all other testaments whatsoever formerly made by me in witness whereof I have here unto set my hand & seall this 9 Day of March 1698/9                                         his

                                                                                                                                                                William   g   Snow sen:r     (seal)

Signed Sealed in ye pesents of us                                                                                                                Mark

Thomas Hayward

Nathaniell Ames

Thomas Wade

 

Memorand: that on ye 4 Day of March 1708 Before Nathll Thomas Esqr Judge of the Probat of Wills &c Nath:ll Ames & Thomas Wade made Oath that they wear pesent & Did se & hear the above sd william Snow sen:r sign seal & Declare the above writen Instrument to be his Last will & testament & that he was of a disposing mind & memory when he so did to the best of their judgments as attest

                                                                                                                                                                Nathll Thomas Regiser

 

An Inventory of the Estate of William Snow senr of Bridgwater Deceased January 31: 1708—taken the 24 of febuary 1708 by Elihu Brett & John field, totaled £16.0.0, and sworn to by William Snow, the Executor, on 4 Mar. 1708.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vo. 2, p. 175-177, from FHL microfilm #0550748.

 

 

Will and Codicil of James Soul of Middleborough, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1736) *

In the name of God amen this thirtieth day of November in the year of our Lord One thousand Seven hundred thirty & Six I James Soul of Middleborough in the County of Plymoth in New England being at this present time in Good health of body & Sound in understanding & Memory, Blessed me God for ye. same yet being Sensible of my own mortallity and knowing that it is appointed for all men once to die do make & ordain this my last will & Testament that is to say principally & first of all I Give and recommend my Soul into the hands of God that Gave it and my body to ye. Earth to be decently buried at the Discretion of my Executor nothing Doubting but at the General Resurrection I Shall receive the same again by the Mighty power of God and as touching such worldly Estate it hath pleased God to bless me withall in this life I Give demise and Dispose of the same in manner & form following that is to say ~ Imprimis I Give to my Beloved wife Lydia Soul the use and improvement of my new house with the thirds of the profitts of all my Estate dureing her natural life & my will is that my Daughter Rebecca Soule have Liberty to dwell with her mother untill She marry and if She Continue unmarried her whole life time if She please — Item I Give & bequeath unto my Daughter Martha Faunce the wife of Joseph Faunce all that my two Lotts of land that I bought of Jonathan Fuller lying in the Sixteen Shilling purchase as they appear by sd. Fullers Deed to me and allso all my Meadows lying in the Lower Meadow and allso a part of a Lot of Cedar Swamp which I bought of William Thomas as it may Appear by sd. Thomas’ Deed of Sale to me, To her, her heirs and Assigns forever —

Item, I Give and bequeath to my Daughter Rebecca Soule all that my housing and land which I bought of John Raymont Senr. and that land which I bought of Mr. Isaac Howland and the land which I bought of Elder Thomas Faunce all which said Lands as they may appear by their several Deeds to me Excepting What I Sold to Samuel Edy and allso one half of a Lott of Cedar Swamp lying in that which is Called the little Cedar Swamp and allso all my Two Acres of meadow which I bought of the widdow Howland lying in the meadow Called Winnatuxett meadow to her & her heirs & assigns forever

Item, I Give to my son Jacob Soule all the my Homestead That is to say my Housing & land where I now dwell with all my other lands Swamp & Meadows lying in Middleborough & Plymton or Else where not here mentiond to him his heirs and Assigns forever, and allso I Give & bequeath to my sd. son Jacob Soule abovesd. all my Apparell and my Armes And my best yoake of oxen and my Carts & wheels plows & all my tools & Tackling that are proper for the use of husbandry & Carpentry and all ye rest of my Goods & Chattles I Give & bequeath to my two Daughters Martha Faunce & Rebecca Soule to be Equally divided between them And further my Will is That my said Son Jacob Soule pay to my daughter Martha Faunce five Children to each of them fiveteen pounds a pease as they come of age and if any of them decease before they come to ye. age of One & twenty years that he Shall pay his or her part to the Survivors in Equal proportion and that he pay the whole of whats here mentiond Out of his own Estate to the sd. Five Children and I do by this my last will and Testament Constitute and Appoint my loving and Dutifull son Jacob Soule sole Executor to this my last will & Testament  In Witness hereof I the aforesd. James Soule have hereunto Set my hand and Seal the day & year above written —

Signed Sealed published & Declared

In Presence of us Witnesses

Jonathan Smith                                                                                                                    James Soul                         (seal)

John Bennet

Nehemiah Bennet

 

Be it Known to all men by these presents that whereas I James Soul of Middleborough in the County of Plymouth in New England have made & declared my last will & Testament in writeing bearing date the thirtyeth of November 1736. In which will I Give liberty to my daughter Rebecca Soule to dwell with her mother untill she Marry and if She Continue unmaried her whole life time if she please: and her mother being Since deceasd it is now my will that My sd. Daughter Rebecca so long as She lives unmaried Shall have ye. Liberty and privilige of living in my dwelling house if She see cause; And my son Jacob Soule now being deceasd my Will is that all the Estate both Real & personal which I had Given & bequeathed by sd. Will unto my said son: my Will now is that the same and Every Part thereof Shall belong unto his widdow & Children in such proportion and as fully and amply as though he had been in the Actuall possession thereof and ye. Same had immediately decended from him to them: and whereas I had in sd. will Constituted my sd son Jacob Soule Executor of sd. Will and he being now deceas’d as Abovesd: I do therefore now Constitute my beloved & Faithfull Kinsman Benjamin Weston of Plymton to be Sole Executor of my said Last Will and testament and my will and meaning is that this Codicil or Schedule be and be adjudged to be part and parcell of my said Last will & Testament and that all things herein mentioned and Contained be faithfully & truly performed and as fully & amply in Every respect as if ye. same where so declared & set down in My said Last will & Testament  Witness my hand & Seal this twenty Second day of august 1744.                                                                                   James Soul                         (seal)

Signed Sealed published & Declared by the sd. Jms. Soul

as part of his sd. Last will & Testament In the

presence of us.                     John Bennet

                                                Jonathan Smith

                                                Nehemiah Bennet

 

Probated on 20 Sept. 1744, and proved by Jonathan Smith, John Bennet and Nehemiah Bennet, the three witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Benjamin Weston of Plymton, the Executor, on 20 Sept. 1744.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 9, p. 341-343, from FHL microfilm #0551533.

 

 

Will of John Soul of Middleborough, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1743) *

In the name of God Amen the first day of March 1743.

I John Soul Senr. of the Town of Middleboro. being weak in body but of perfect Mind & Memory thanks be to god therefore Calling to mind the Mortallity of my body and knowing that it is appointed for all men once to dye I do make and ordain this my last will and Testament that is to say Principally & first of all I give and Recommend my Soul into the hands of god that gave it and my body I Recommend to the Earth to be buried in Decent Christian burial at ye Discretion of my Executor and as touching such worldly Estate wherewith it hath pleased god to bless me in this life I give demise & Dispose of the same in the following Manner & form~

Imprimis, and for the Love and Naturall affection I beare to my wife Martha Soul I give to her All my Indore & Out Door Moveables Estate Except my tools & tackling, and allso to have as Many Apples Out of the orchard as she wants for herselfe and allso oblige my son John Soul to keep her Two Cows and one horse with Convenient Fodder and pasture and Oblige him to give her Nine Bushels of Indian Corn & three Bushels of Rye and twelve pounds in passable money yearly Dureing her Natural life and to have one Room of the house for herselfe ~~ And for the Love I bare to my son John Soul I Give to him my homestead with all the buildings Fences & orchard and allso both my South Purchas Lotts the one being in Number 120. and the other being in Number 126. and allso the Little Share being the 17th. Part of the 43d. lott and allso that part of a Lott of Ciedar swamp that I bought of Henery Wood lying in the Purchase Called the Six & twenty mens Purchase in the originall Right of Thomas & Samuel Dellingno—

And I allso make him my Executor to take in my Debts & pay out my Debts—

Item and what I have Given to my beloved son James Soul by Deed I Confirm in this my will to him; and for the Love I have to my Daughter Martha Tomson I give her twenty pounds to be paid in two years after my Decease by my Executors to her or her heirs ~~ And for the love I bear my Daughter Sarah Snow I give to her twenty pounds to be paid by my Execr. in two years after my Deceas to her or her heirs —

And for the love I bear to my Daughter Ester Soul, Item I give to her twenty pounds to be paid by my Executor in two years after my Decease to her or to her heirs —

And for the Love I bear to my Daughter Mary Samson, Item I give to her twenty pounds to be paid by my Executor in two years after my Decease to her or to her heirs —

And for the love I bear to my Daughter Rebecca Soul – Item, I give to her twenty five pounds to be paid by my Executor in two years after my Decease to her or her heirs —

And for the Love I bear to my Daughter Rachel Soul – Item I give to her Thirty pound to be paid by my Executor in two years after my Decease to her or her heirs —

All to be paid to Each of them in the old tenour.

And Rebecca & Rachel Soul are to have the Privilige of one Room while they live unmaried —

Signed Sealed & Deliverd

                In Presence of                                                                                                      John Soul                            (seal)

Lemuel Tinkam

Daniel Vaughn

Isaac Tinkam Junr

 

Probated on 6 June 1743, and proved by Samuel Tinkam and Danll Vaughn. Letters of Administration granted to John Soul of Middlebo., the Sole Executor, on 6 June 1743.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 9, p. 84-86, from FHL microfilm #0551533.

 

 

Will of Martha Soul of Middleborough, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1751) *

Know all Men by these Presents that I Martha Soul senr. of the Town of Middleborough in the County of Plimouth in New England being at this Present Time weak of Body of Sound & Disposing Mind & Memory and understanding and being Sensible of my own Mortality and knowing that it is appointed for all once to die do make & ordain this to be my Last will and Testimony to remain firm & inviolable forever—

Imprs. after all my Just debts & funerall charges are paid out of my Estate for the Love I bear to my John Souls Heirs I give five shillings lawfull money. And for the love I bear to my son James Soul I give to him ten Shillings lawfull money. & to the Heirs of my dauhter Sarah Snow decd. I give five shillings lawfull money & to my daughters Easter Soul & Rebeccah Soul, I give one third of my movebal Estate & the rest I give to my daughters Martha Thomson & Ester Soul & Mary Samson, & Rebecca Soal & Rachal Vaughan to be divided Equally among them. & it is my will that Ester Soul & Rebecca Soul shall be Execrs. of this my last will & Testimony & they shall pay all my Just Debts hoping that this & no Other to be my last will in witness whereof I,ve hereunto set my hand & Seal this 19th day of Novr. in ye. year 1751 signd. seald & Deliverd in presence of                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                   her

Samuel Tinkham                                                                                                                 Martha   —   Soul                                (seal)

David Simons                                                                                                                                       mark

Nelson Finney

 

Presented for probate on 2 May 1758, and proved by Samuel Tinkham and David Simmons, two of the witnesses. To Isaac Tinkam of Middlebro in the County aforesd. Husbandman, Whereas Martha Soul senr. Late of sd. Middlebro widow decd. on the 19th day of Novr. A.D. 1751 did Sign Seal & publish her last will and Testament in writing before sufficient witnesses in which sd. will after Gifts & Legacies therein made appointed her two Daughters Ester Soul & Rebeccah Soul, Executorixs. of the same will & Testament & Which sd. will was proved, approved, & allowed, but the sd. Esther, & Rebeccah, Renounced, & refused ye. Executorship, thereof Administration Cum, Testamento, annexo, thereof is Hereby comitted unto you the sd. Isaac Tinkham of all & singular the Goods, Chattels, Rights, & Credits, of the sd. decd. well & faithfully to dispose of the same according to Law & the Directions of the sd. will & Testamt… In Testimony whereof I’ve hereunto set my hand & the seal of the sd. Court of Probt. Dated at Plimo. this 2d. Day of May Anno Domini – 1758.

                                                                                                                                                Jno Cushing

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 15, p. 29-30, from FHL microfilm #0551543.

 

 

Will of Rebeckah Soul of Middleborough, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1758) *

In the name of God Amen the Twenty Third day of Septr 1758 I Rebeckah Soul of the Town of Midleborough in the County of Plymouth being Very Sick & weak in Bodey but of Perfect Minde & Memory Thanks be given unto god therfor Calling unto minde the mortallity of my Bodey and Knowing that it is appointed for all men once to Die do make & ordain this my Last will & Testamt that is To Say Princepally and first of all I give & Recommend my Sole ino the hands of God that Gave it and my bodey I Recommend To the Earth to be buried in Decent Christian Burial nothing doubting but at the General Resurection I Shall Receive the Same again by the mighty Power of God and as Touching Such worldly Estate wherewith it hath pleased God to bless me in this Life I Give demise and dispose of the Same in the following manner & form

Imprs. I give and Bequeth unto my Sister Esther Soul all my Estate which Cheafly Consists in houshold goods live Stock Bonds notes & Book Debts &c Except what I Shall hereafter give away and order hir To Pay out of Said Estate

Itm. I give & Bequeth unto my Brother James Soul & To my three Sisters namely Martha Tomson Mary Samson & Rachal Vaughan Two pounds Thirteen Shillings & four Pence to Each of them to be Paid to them in one year after my Deceas by my aforesaid Sister Ester Soul

Item I give & Bequeth unto the Children of my Sister Sarah Snow Decd. Two pounds Thirteen Shilling & four Pence Equally to be Devided betwen them. In one year after my Decease by my aforesd. Sister Ester Soul

Item I Give & Bequeth To my Cossen John Soule Two pounds Thirteen Shillings & four pence To be paid him by my aforesaid Sister Ester Soul when he arrives To the age Twenty one years old

Further more my will is that my aforesd. Sister Ester Soul Pay all my Just Debts & funeral Charges & home I appoint the Soule Executrix of this my last will and Testament & I Do hereby uterly disallow all other wills Ratefying & Confirming this & no other to be my last will and Testament In witness where of I have hereunto set my hand and Seal the Day & year above written

Signed Sealed Published pronounced &

Declared by the said Rebeckah Soul                                                                                                 her

as her Last will and Testament In                                                                                    Rebeckah  S  Soul

the Presence of us the Subscribers                                                                                                    Marke

John Holmes

Johanna Holmes

Joseph Tinkham

 

Presented for probate on 26 Apr. 1759 by the Executrix within named, and proved by John Holmes and Joseph Tinkcom, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Ester Soule, the Executrix, on 26 Apr. 1759.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 15, p. 280-281, from FHL microfilm #0551543.

 

 

Will of Benjamin Soule of Plympton, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1729) *

In the Name of God Amen – The Second of November One thousand Seven hundred & twenty nine – 1729. I Benjamin Soule of Plimton in the County of Plymouth in New-England Yeoman being very weak of Body but of Sound Mind & Memory thanks be giving to God therefore Calling to Mind the mortality of my Body Knowing yt. it is appointed to all Men once to dy I do Make & Ordain this my last Will & Testament in Manner & form as following That is to Say Principally & First of all I Recommend & Give my Soul into ye hands of that God that gave it and as for my Body Irecommend it to ye Earth to be buried in a Christian like manner at ye Discretion of my Execrs. and as touching Such worldly Estate it hath pleased God to bless me with I Give Demise & Dispose of ye Same in manner & form as following That is to Say Imprims. I Give & Bequeath unto my well beloved Wife Sarah Soule the Third Part of ye Improvemt. of my Homestead whereon I now dwelleth on both Side of ye Road and also the Improvement of Easterly End of my Dwelling House & likewise the third Part of all my Moveable Estate Excepting One feather Bed And also I Give unto my Beloved Wife Sarah the Improvement of my Right in ye Grist Mill & Fulling Mill Standing on Winnatuxett River all to be Enjoyed by her during her Life—

Item I Give & Bequeath unto my Son Zechariah Soule about three hundred acres of Land whereon he now dwelleth be ye same more or less Beginning at a broken Spruce which is ye Corner Bound of Ebenezer Standish Land & from thence running upon a Straight Line to a Pitch Pine tree marked Standing near ye Bridge commonly called ye Common Meadow Bridge & so running up on a Strait Line till ye come a Bound tree which is ye lower Corner Bound of my Meadow which lyeth on Colecor Brook and so from thence to the Brook and also about three or four acres of meadow lying on sd Brook & running up sd Brook till You come to Standish Meadow & so down Brook ye the Bounds last Mentioned, With all ye Building on Said Land Only Reserving a Way for my Brothr. Ebenezer Standish & his Heirs for to make & carry off ye Hay of the Meadow that Brother Standish bought of me—

Item I Give & Bequeath unto my Daughter Hannah Samson the Wife of George Samson Seventy Pounds in Money to be paid unto her by my Executrs within a Year after my Decease and also one good Feather Bed ~ ~ Item I Give & Bequeath unto my Sons Benjamin Soule & Ebenezer Soule two thirds of my homestead whereon I now dwelleth on both Sides of the Road I Give unto my Sons Benjamin & Ebenezer all my Upland & Meadow & Meadowish Ground lying in a Neck of Land commonly called Donham Neck And also ye meadow & Upland lying on ye South Side of Winnatuxett River – I Give unto my Sons Benjamin & Ebenezer the Lot of Cedar Swamp lying in ye Swamp common called Colchester Cedar Swamp and also I Give unto my Sons Benjamin & Ebenezer two thirds of all my Moveable Estate Excepting one Bed I have given already to my Daughter Hannah. And I Give unto my two Sons Benjamin & Ebenezer all ye Remaining Part of ye Upland Meadow & Swamp lying in a Neck commonly called Kings Neck which I have not giving unto my Son Zechariah in this my last Will. And further my Mind & Will is that after my Wife Sarah decease I Give unto my two Sons Benja. & Ebenezer the other Third of my homestead & Buildings on both Sides of ye Way And also my Part of ye Grist Mill & Fulling Mill With all ye Priviledges & Appurtenances belonging thereunto And also the Other third of my moveable Estate & all my Debts & Funeral Charge to be payed by my Executrs Lastly I Nominate & appoint my Beloved Wife Sarah Soule my Executrix & My two Sons Benjamin & Ebenr Executrs of this my last Will & Testament In Witness whereof I have Set my hand & Seal—                                                               Benjamin Soule                (seal)

Signed Sealed & Declared by

Benjamin Soule to be his last

Will & Testament I Presence of us

Caleb Loring

John Holmes

Joseph Thomas

 

Probated on 12 Dec. 1729, and proved by Caleb Loring, John Holmes, & Joseph Thomas.

Letters of Administration given on 5 Jan. 1729[/30] to Sarah Soule, Relict Widow of Benjamin Soule, and to Benjamin Soule and Ebenezer Soule, sons of Benjamin Soule.

 

The inventory of the estate of Benja. Soule, late of Plimton, deceased, dated 2 Mar. 1729/30, taken by Caleb Loring, Isaac Wright, and Nathan Weston, was not totaled, but included his homestead on both sides of the road valued at £1100, his upland meadow at Donham Neck and his meadow on the South side of Winatuxet River valued at £250, his land lying in Kings Neck given to his son Zechariah Soule valued at £600, his remaining land at Kings Neck given to Benja. & Ebenezr valued at £300, his half of the grist mill valued at £100, his half of the fulling mill valued at £63, his land lying between Kings Brook and Coaltechel Brook valued at £160, his land lying in Middleboro valued at £120, and other lands of lesser values.

 

An Agreement between the heirs of Benjamin Soule of Plimton for the division of his lands, dated 26 June 1730, mentioned his three sons Zechariah Soule, Benjamin Soule, and Ebenezer Soule, and his daughter Hannah Samson, wife of George Samson, and was witnessed by Polycarpus Loring and John Bell. Sarah Soule, the relict widow of Mr. Benjamin Soule of Plimton, accepted the division agreement.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth Co. Probate Vol. 5, pp. 617-619, 632-634, 741-743, from FHL microfilm #0550511.

 

 

Will of Daniel Soule of Plympton, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1837) *

In the name of God, Amen, I Daniel Soule of Plympton in the County of Plymouth & Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Gentleman, being of perfect mind and memory thanks be given to God therefor, calling to mind the mortality of my body and knowing that it is appointed for all men once to die, do make & ordain this my last Will & Testament and desire it may be received by all men as such. And first of all I give & bequeath my Soul into the hands of God who gave it and my body I recommend to the earth to be buried in a decent & christian burial at the discretion of my Executor hereafter named nothing doubting but at the General resurrection I shall receive the same again by the mighty power of God and as touching such worldly estate where with it has pleased God to bless me with in this life I give devise and dispose of the same in the following manner and form.

                Item, I give & bequeath unto my beloved wife Lucy Soule all the household furniture which she brought into my house when she commenced housekeeping with me. Also the use & improvement of all my other personal estate during her natural life.

                Item, I give & bequeath unto my son in law James Bosworth all my personal estate not before disposed of and after my wife Lucy Soule has had the use & improvement as above expressed. And my Will is and do positively order my Executor hereafter named to pay all my just debts, and funeral expenses.

                Lastly I do constitute make & ordain James Bosworth of Plympton my sole Executor of this my last Will & Testament and do hereby utterly disallow, revoke and disannul all & every other Will & Testament by me in any wise before willed, named & bequeathed, ratifying this & no other to be my last Will & Testament.

                In witness whereof I have set my hand & seal this twenty seventh day of April in the Year of Our Lord one thousand eight hundred & thirty seven.

                                                                                                                                                Daniel Soule                                      (seal)

Signed, sealed, pronounced & declared by the said Daniel Soule to be his last Will & Testament in the presence of us the subscribers.

Jonathan Parker

Ichabod W. Thompson

Seth Shurtleff

 

Presented for probate on the second Monday of April 1840 by James Bosworth, the Executor therein named, and proved by Jonathan Parker and Seth Shurtleff, two of the witnesses.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 82, p. 105-106, from FHL microfilm #0555266.

 

 

Will of Esther Soule of Middleborough, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1792) *

        In the name of God Amen—I Esther Soule of Middleborough in the County of Plymouth, in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts Spinster being under decays of my body, but of a sound & disposing mind & memory, blessed be God for the same wherefore calling to mind ye mortality of my body and knowing that it is appointed for all men once to die do make and ordain this to be my Last will & testament to remain firm and inviolable forever—principally & first of all, I give and recommend my soul to that God which gave it, and my body to the dust, to be buryed in a decent christian burial at the discretion of my Executor hereafter named, nothing doubting but that I shall recieve the same again at the general resurrection by the mighty power of God, and as touching such worldly estate as it hath pleased almighty God to bless me with, I do dispose of the same in ye following manner and form-viz—

        Imprimis—I Give and bequeath to my Niece Esther Bryant, wife to Isaac Bryant, and to her heirs & assigns forever, my Bed & Bedding sufficient to dress the same so as to make it comfortable, but not for a change of Bedding

        Item—I Give & bequeath to my nephew Nathan Tomson, and to his heirs & assigns forever, all of my property now in his hands, also my black camblet gown

        Furthermore—my will is, and I do hereby give & bequeath, to all of my heirs at Law, excepting the said Nathan Tomson, all of the remaining part and residue of my Estate, to be divided amongst them as the Law directs after my just debts, funeral charges & necessary expences are first paid

        Lastly—my will is, and I hereby appoint my nephew and trusty friend John Soule of said Middleborough Gent. sole executor of this my Last will & testament thus hoping that this my Last will & testament will be kept and performed according to the true intent & meaning of ye same I the afore named Esther Soule have hereunto set my hand & seal this sixteenth day of October in the year of our Lord seventeen hundred & ninety two

Signed, Sealed, Published, pronounced &                                                                                   her

delivered by the said Esther Soule to be her                                                                   Esther   X   Soule                              (seal)

Last will & testament in the presence of                                                                                     mark

us    Thomas Bennet

                     her

        Priscilla + Barrows

                    mark

        Isaac Thomson

 

Presented for probate on 11 June 1793 by John Soule, the Executor, and proved by Thos Bennet and Priscilla Barrows, two of the witnesses.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 33, p. 374-375, from FHL microfilm #0550717.

 

 

Will of Jabez Soule of Halifax, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1824) *

                In the name of God, Amen. I, Jabez Soule, of Halifax in the County of Plymouth, in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, yeoman, being weak in body but of perfect mind and memory, Blessed be Almighty God for the same, do make and publish this my last Will and Testament in manner and form following, viz

   I give and bequeath to my beloved son Zachariah Soule one dollar, to be paid by my Executors after my decease, which with the expense of his education and other charges which I have been at for him, will be in full of his share in my Estate.

   I give and bequeath to my beloved son George Soule, and to my beloved daughters Nabby Soule and Marcia Soule, all my household furniture of whatsoever name or nature, in equal shares. And I do further give and bequeath to my said daughters Nabby Soule and Marcia Soule the sum of one hundred and fifty dollars each, to be paid by my Executors out of my estate in one year after my decease. Also the use of my two easterly front rooms in my dwelling house, with the chambers over the same, and the privilege of using the oven, buttery, cellar, and well so much as may be necessary for their convenience, so long as they or either of them choose to occupy the same in person. I also will and order my Executors to furnish them annually with as much firewood off of my Estate, drawn and cut up at the door, as may be necessary for one fire, so long as they choose to use it themselves in the dwelling-house abovesaid. Also, the right to have one cow kept on the estate for their use so long as they or either of them choose to occupy the dwelling house as aforesd. I also give them, the sd. Nabby and Marcia, the use of a garden bounded as follows, beginning at the S.E. corner by the dwelling-house thence N. 70 E. eight rods and five links, thence N. 30 W. three rods, thence S. 64 E seven rods to the N.E. corner of the dwelling house, with the building standing thereon, so long as they or either of them choose to occupy the same. My will is, that if either of them marry, they relinquish for themselves the privilege herein provided for them, excepting the household furniture, and one hundred and fifty dollars each.

   I give and bequeath to my beloved daughters Sally Sturtevant, Lucy Church, and Betsey Soule, the sum of twenty dollars each, to be paid by my Executors in one year after my decease.

   I give and bequeath to my beloved grand-son George Thomas Soule the sum of fifty dollars, to be paid by my executors after my decease, when he shall arrive at the age of twenty-one years, and if he should not live to the age of twenty-one years his legacy to be void – and my will and intention is, that if the sd. George Thomas Soule shall continue to live in my family until he is sixteen years of age, that he shall then be furnished by my Executors out of my Estate with decent clothing suitable to go to a trade.

   I give and bequeath to my beloved son Jabez Soule Jr all my farming tools, and also all my mechanic tools.

   I also further give to my son George Soule all that part of my dwelling house not before disposed of, and the remainder after my sd daughters Nabby and Marcia cease to occupy the same agreeably to the provisions aforesd.

   Lastly, as to all the rest, residue, and remainder of my Estate, real and personal, of what name or nature soever, I give and bequeath the same to my aforesaid sons George Soule and Jabez Soule Jr. in equal shares to them and their heirs and assigns forever. My will and pleasure is, that if any of my sd. legatees or devisces shall exhibit an account against my estate after my decease, the amount is to be deducted out of the devise or legacy above bequeathed to them. And I do hereby appoint my sd. sons George Soule and Jabez Soule Jr. joint Executors of this my Last Will & Testament, hereby revoking all former Wills by me made.   In witness whereof, I the sd. Jabez Soule have hereunto set my hand and seal this eleventh day of October in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and twenty-four.

(The words “the privileges” and the word

“my” were interlined before signing.)

Signed, sealed, published

and declared by the said Jabez                                                                                          Jabez Soule                                        (seal)

Soule to be his last Will

And Testament in the presence of us, who, at his request and in his presence have hereunto subscribed as witnesses

                                                                                                                                                Obadiah Lyon

                                                                                                                                                Abel Richmond

                                                                                                                                                Jane P. Waterman

 

Presented for probate on 19 Feb. 1827 by George Soule and Jabez Soule Jr, the Executors therein named, and proved by Obadiah Lyon and Abel Richmond, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to George Soule and Jabez Soule Jr, the before named Executors.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

Obadiah Lyon Esqr. Thomas Drew Esqr. and Stafford Sturtevant, yeoman, all of Halifax, were appointed to make a just and equal division or partition of the Real Estate whereof Jabez Soule late of Halifax, died seized and possessed, to and among the devisees named in the last Will & Testament of the said Jabez Soule, on 13 Aug. 1827. The division, dated 19 Aug. 1827, and approved on 4 Sept. 1827, mentioned George Soule and Jabez Soule.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 63, p. 317-320, from FHL microfilm #0550912, and Vol. 64, p. 246-248.

 

 

Will of Marcia Soule of Halifax, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1847) *

        In the Name of God, Amen. I Marcia Soule of Halifax being weak in body but of a sound mind and memory blessed be Almighty God for the same, do make and publish this my last Will and Testament in a manner and form following that is to say first I give and bequeath to my beloved brother Jabez Soule the sum of Fifty Dollars, and I also give to my beloved sister Sally Sturtevant the sum of Fifty Dollars, which said several sums of money, I will and order, shall be paid to the said legatees within six months after my decease and lastly to all the rest residue and remainder of Real and Personal Estate, Goods and Chattels of what kind and nature soever, I give and bequeath the same to my beloved sister Nabby Soule whom I hereby appoint sole executrix of this my last Will and Testament, and hereby revoking all former Wills by me made. In witness whereof I hereunto set my hand and seal this seventeenth day of August in the year of our Lord One thousand Eight hundred and forty seven.

        Signed, sealed published and declared by the above named Marcia Soule to be her last Will and Testament in the presence of us who have hereunto subscribed our names as witnesses in the presence of the testator

        Joseph S. Waterman

        Jane P. Waterman                                                                                                       Marcia Soule                                     (seal)

        Elizabeth B. Hayward

 

Presented for probate on the first Tuesday of Apr. 1848 by Nabby Soule, the Executor therein named, and proved by Joseph S. Waterman and Jane P. Waterman, two of the witnesses whose names are subscribed thereto. Letters Testamentary were granted to Nabby Soule, the Executor therein named.

 

Abigail Soule, of Halifax, was appointed as Executrix of the last Will and Testament of Marcia Soule, late of Halifax, on 4 Apr. 1848, with Jabez Soule and Joseph S. Waterman, both of Halifax, as sureties.

No inventory of her estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 90, p. 129-130, from FHL microfilm #0555639, and Vol. 1G, p. 484.

 

 

Will of Zachariah Soule of Plympton, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1751) *

In The name of god amen The Thirtieth Day of aprail anno Domini 1751 I Zachariah Soule of Plimton in ye County of Pimouth in the Province of ye Massachusets Bay in New-England Yeoman Being very Sick and Weak in Body but of Perfect mind and memory-Thanks be Given to God-Therefore Calling unto mind the mortality of my Body & Knowing that it is appointed for all men once to Dye Do make & ordain This my Last Will and Testement-viz- Prencipally and ferst of all I Give and Recomend my Sole into the hands of God which Gave it and my Body I recomend To the Eairth to be Buried in Decent Christain Burail at ye Discretion of my Execrs nothing Doughting but at ye Generail Resurrection I Shall Recive ye Same again by ye mighty Power of God and as Touching Such Worly Estate where with it hath Pleased God to Bless me in this Life with- I Give Demise & Dispose of The Same in ye following manner & form: Imprrs  I Give to my Two Eldest Sons viz. Jabez Soule and Zachry Soule nothing, by This Will I have already Given to them By Deeds what I Entend for them out of my Estate —

Item—I Give and Bequeath to my Son Ephraim Soule and to his heirs & assigns for Ever Thirty Six acres of Land: being part of my Homsted Bounded as followeth Beginning at a bunch of Elder Bushes by the Side of the Wall on the West Side of ye Rode from my house to moses Standishes Thence northerly by Said Rode to ye said Standishes Land Thence by ye Southerly Side of said Standishes Land to ye Medow fence of James Startevants Thence by said fence to ye Land I Give to my Son Jabez Soule Thence Easterly by Said Jabezs Land to ye north East Corner thereof Thence South a Line To The Bounds first mentioned as well Incompus ye sd Thirty Six acres also four acres of medow on The Easterly Side of the medow I Gave to my said Son Jabez To be Laid out Joyning on Said Jabez medow But the medow I Reserve for my Wifes Improvement So Long as She Remains my widow

Item I Give and Bequeath to my Son James Soule and to his Heirs & assigns for Ever all the Rest Part of my Homsted Lying on ye South & West side of the Rode that goes by my house which I Have not already Disposed of and also my Dwelling House & Two acres of Land to be Laid of next to ye sd house on that Side of the rode the House Stand on & my Will is that my Wife Shall have ye Improvement of all this Legace During the Time She remains my Widow —

Item I Give and Bequeath to my Dear & Loving Wife mary Soule & To her Heirs and assigns for Ever all my other Real Estate Which is not by me all Redy Disposed of & also my Will is That my Sd Wife Shall Have ye Improvement of the medow Given to my Son Ephriam Whilst she Remains my Widow also the improvement of what I have Given To my Son James Solong as She remainds my Widow & also my will is That after my Just Debts & funeral Charges are Paid That Whotsoever Remains of my Personal Estate Shall be also my Sd wifes for Ever She rendering & Paying out of what I have Given her herein ye Legaces which I Shall next Give out to my Daughters

Item I Give To my Daughter Mary Soule or Heirs Execrs or assigns the Sum of Thirteen pounds Six Shillings and Eight pence In Lawfull money of Said province to be paid to her by my Said Wife In Twelve months after my Decease out of that Part of my Estate which I Have above Given Into my said Wife Hands —

Item I Give To my Daughter Sarah Tinkham or to her Heirs Execrs or admirs Thirteen Shillings and four Pence Lawfull money to be Paid out of What I have Given to my Said Wife-In one Year after my Decease-I Have Given to her So as to make her Shear Eqal.

Item I Give to my Daughter Hannah Soule and to her Heirs Execrs. or admrs Thirteen pounds Six Shillings and Eight pence in Lawfull money to be paid by my said Wife in Twelve months after my Decease out of That part of my Estate which I have Given into her Hands

Item I Give and Bequeath To my Daughter Eunice Soule and To her Heirs Execrs or Admrs Thirteen pounds Six Shillings and Eight pence in Lawfull money to be paid to her by my Said Wife in one year after my Decease out of That part of my Estate Given To my Said Wife —

Item I Give and Bequeath To my Daughter Loes Soule and To her Heirs Execrs or administrators Thirteen pounds Six Shillings and Eight Pence in Lawfull money To be paid to Her by my Said Wife out of That part of my Estate Given to my Said Wife In Twelve months after my Decease also it is my will that my Son Ephram Soul and all my above named Daughters Shall have an Interest in my House Till married —

Lastly—I Do now appoint Constitute make and ordain my Well beloved Wife mary Soule and my Loving Son Zachariah Soule To be my Sole Executors of This my Last Will and Testement and I Do Hereby utterly Disallow Revoke and Disannule all & Every other former Testement Will & Legeces Bequests and Execrs by me in any Ways be fore named Willed & Bequeathed Ratifying and Confirming This and no other to Be my Last Will and Testement  In Witness Whereof I have Hereunto Set my Hand and Seal The Day & year before Written—

Signd Seald published pronounced and Declared by the Said

Zachariah Soule as his Last Will and Testement in

presents of us The Subscribers —                                                                                    Zachariah Soule               (seal)

Jonathan Parker

Jabez Newland

Beriah Bonney

 

Presented for probate on 3 June 1751, and proved by Jonathan Parker and Beriah Bonney.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 12, p. 181-182, from FHL microfilm #0551539.

 

 

Will of Benjamin Southworth of Duxbury, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1751) *

                In the Name of God Amen,

upon the first day of October in the Year of our Lord God One Thousand Seven Hundred & fifty one, I Benjamin Southworth of Duxborough in the County of Plimouth in the Province of the Massachusets bay in NewEngland Yeoman being under Some Infirmities of body, but of Perfict mind and memory, Thanks be Give unto God for the same, & calling to mind the Mortality of my body, and knowing that it is appointed for all men once to dye do make and ordain this to be my Last Will and Testament, that is to say,

Principally and first of all I Give and Recommend my Soul into the hands of God that Gave it and my body I recomend to the Earth to be buried in a decent and Christain manner @ the Discretion of my Execr. Herein after named nothing doubting but @ the Great and Generall Resurrection I Shall receive the same again by the Almighty Power of God and as Touching Such worldly Goods and Temporall Estate wherewith it hath Pleased God to bless me in this Life which I Give demise and Dispose of the Same in the following maner & form,

Imprs. My will is That all my Just Debts and funerall charges be defraid and Paid in the manner following that is to say the one halfe of my said Debts and Funerall charger by my Son Thomas Southworth, and the Other Halfe of my said Debts and funerall charges to be paid by ye. rest of my said Children Proportionally to what I shall hereafter Give them.

Item, I Give and Bequeath unto my well=beloved wife Rebecca Southworth, and my Eldest Son Thomas Southworth all the whole and Improvment and use of my Homestead Farm whereon I now Dwell with all the Houseing, fencing, Orchards with all my Salt meadows Lying @ a place comonly called cutt Island by Greensharbour=River, with all of my cattle Horses and Sheep (the Swine onely Excepted, which I reserve for the use of All my Family to Spend upon as they See fit) So Long as my said Wife Rebecca Southworth Shall Remain my Wido. and then @ the end of her Widowhood or of her being my Widow That then all this Abovesd. Homestead farm with the Priviledges belonging to it as abovesaid with the abovesaid Salt Meadow (Excepting all the Sorts of my Cattle) Shall Go to and be for the use of my said Son Thomas Southworth his heirs and Assigns forever

Item My Will is That my said Son Thomas Southworth Shall Give or Pay to my three Sons, Constant Southworth, Obed Southworth & Jasher Southworth the Sum of Twenty pounds Lawfull money or Good bills of Cridit Equivilent thereunto Out of the abovesaid Estate that I have Given him to be Paid to them in a Year after my decease,   Item My will is That my Two sons Obed Southworth and Jasher Southworth Shall have Eighty pounds in lawfull money or Good Bills of Creditt Equivilent thereunto to be Paid out of whole of my Estate when they Go Out to an apprenticeship in Order to fit them for it Provided that I do not Live to Put them Out to an Apprenticeship my selfe,

Item I Give unto my three Sons Constant Southworth Obed Southworth and Jasher Southworth, and to my Three Daughters, Hannah Herington, Elizabeth Southworth and Deborah Southworth all and the whole of the Residue and Remainder of my Real and Personall Estate wheresoever it may be found and in what soever kind or Spice it may be, Equally all alike to be Divided amongst them all, and my will is That my said Son Thomas Southworth Shall @ the end of my wife’s Widowhoold Shall and is to make Good all the Stock of Cattle Horses and Sheep (Swine Excepted) as they were At the Time of my decease, and then they are to Goe to and be divided amongst my three Sons Constant Southworth, Obed Southworth and Jasher Southworth, and my Three daughters Hannah Herington, Elizabeth Southworth and Deborah Southworth equally alike to be Divided amongst them all; and my Will is that all my abovesd. Estate that is Given as abovesaid shall be to each of my children as abovesaid to each of them their Heirs and Assigns forever Provided Nevertheless it is to be understood that it is my Will that my wife, and my Son Thomas Southworth Shall have the whole use and Improvment of all my Meadows So long as my said Wife Shall Remain my Widow Equally between them,

Item I do Hereby Constitute and appoint my Trusty Dutifull and well=beloved Son Thomas Southworth to be the Sole Execr. of this my Last Will and Testament And I do hereby uterly Disalow, Revoke and Disanull All and every Other and former Wills Testament, Legacies and Bequests by me in any wise before made, named, Willd and Bequested, ratifying and Confirming this and no Other to be my Last Will and Testament In Witness whereof I have hereunto Set my hand and Seal the day and Year above writen

                                                                                                                                                                   his

Signed, Sealed, Published                                                                                                  Benjamin  +  Southworth                 (seal)

Pronounced and Declared by the                                                                                                         mark

said Benjamin Southworth

to be his Last Will and Testament

In the presence of us the Subscribers

 

Presented for probate on 5 July 1756 by the Executor therein named, and proved by James Thomas, Abner Dingley, and John Wadsworth, the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to his son Thomas Southworth of said Duxborough, the Sole Executor, on 5 July 1756.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Mr. Benjamin Southworth, late of Duxborough, Yeoman, was appraised by Samuel Baker, Isaac Partridge, and Nathl. Simmons on 26 July 1756, and totaled £523.12.113/4. Thomas Southworth, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 2 Aug. 1756.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 14, pp. 14, p. 141-144, 158-159, from FHL microfilm #0551542.

 

 

Will of Constant Southworth of Bridgewater, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1775) *

In the Name of God Amen I Constant Southworth of Bridgwater In the County of Plymouth and Province of ye Massachusetts Bay in New England In Consideration of my Mortal State & being Advanced in Age Though at this present time of Sound mind and Memory blessed be God Do make and Ordain this my last Will & Testament In Manner Following First I recomend my Soul to God who gave it & my Body to the Dust to be decently Intered at the discretion of my Executor hereafter Named expecting to receive the Same Body free from Sin and Corruption at the Resurection of the Just Touching my Temporal estate I give and dispose the Same in the Following Manner ~

1t: I Give & Bequeath to my well beloved Wife Hannah Southworth the Improvement of Six Acres of Land on the Southeastward of my Dwelling House in Sd. Bridgwater Adjoyning on the east Side of the Bay Head and on the North side of Mr. Noyes land to extend from the Midle of the Old Part of my Dwelling House on an east Point so far as will Comprehend Sd. Complyment of Six Acres To Due Square on the Easterly End together with the Improvements Joyntly with my Daughter Sarah SouthWorth of the Southerly half of my now Dwelling House & Cellar with so much Barn Room as Shall be needfull to keep a Cow & Also a Priviledge of Passing through the Old Room to the Well and also the Improvement of my Pew in the Meeting House for her own Setting & the Improvement of a Red Heifer on my Farm to Improve the Said Priviledges During her Remaining my Widow Except the Last Article of a Heifer which is Only to Improve while She Continues here & also a Chest in the Seller for her & my Daughter Sarahs Use with Lock & Key Residence in my now Dwelling House together also with all her Household Goods & Utensils which She Brought with her when She Came here In Particular a Chair Cariages & Harness all which are to Remain to her & her Heirs forever after my Decease as also Fire Wood & the keeping of her Cow – during her Continuance here Except what Pasturing & hay may Profitably be had on Said Six Acres of Land & in Case Said Legacies fall to her when no Profits Arise from the Said Improvements to be provided by my Executors during that Term.—

2dly. I Give to my Son Nathaniel Southworth whom I hereby Constitute Sole Executor of this my Last Will & Testament all & Singular my Lands buildings Money Moveables Tools & Utinsells with all my Right & Interest in a Forge Called Packards Forge & Appurtenances thereto belonging with all my Bank Debts Notes on Securitys of what kind or Nature Soever with my live Stock & whatever Estate or Interest I Shall or may have at my Decease not here Specially Mentioned or Included He as my Executor paying & Delivering the Several Legacies & Bequests herein Expressed to the Several Legatees mentioned & Providing for his Mother In Case Her Improvments fall to her when Sufficient Profits do not Arise from them for her Comfortable Support & to be Continued till Said Lands Produce those Profitts & Also Paying my Just Debts & funeral Expences no Other Legatee to be Charged with any Debt or Costs Relative thereto. I also Give to him an Equal Part of my Wearing Apparrel with his Brothers & of my Books with the Rest of my Heirs which I Esteem his Equal Proportion of my Estate & to Remain to him & his Heirs forever ~~

3dly. I Give & Bequeath to my son Ezekel Southworth Thirteen Pounds Six Shillings & Eight Pence Lawfull Money to be paid By my Executors in Two Years after my Decease Together with his Equal Part with his Brothers of my Wearing Apparrel & his Equal Part with the Rest of my Heirs of my Books which I Estimate with what he has already Received to be his Equall Proportion of my Estate ~

4ly. I Give to my son Jedediah Southworth Ten Acres of Land Lying on the Southward of Salsbury Plain River Joyning Easterly on the Lands of George Packard & the Widow Lydia Packard being a Third Part of Thirty Acres of Land which Lieth as Abovesaid the Other Two thirds I have herein Disposed to my two Daughters Said Thirty Acres Lying on the Westerly part of Said Lands; if any Remains on the Easterly Part after the Said Thirty Acres is Measured off to Go to my Executor To be holden of him & his Heirs forever Also a Cow also his Equal Part of my Wearing Apparrel with my Sons & an Equal Part of my Books amongst my Heirs which with Other Advantages he hath had I Estimate to be his Equal Part of my Estate ~

5ly. I Give to my Eldest Daughter Bette Cole One Third Part of Said Thirty Acres as Above Described which is hereby Intended to be Equally Divided for Quantity & Quality & also One half of an Interest in the Estate of Mr. Ichabod Keith Late of Bridgwater Deceased which fell to her Mother now Improved by Doctor Jones of Abington which I Give to her & her Heirs forever Also a Cow ½ the Indoor Moveables & an Equal Right in my Books with my Other Heirs which I Esteem her Equal & Just Proportion of my Estate.

6ly. I Give unto my Youngest Daughter Sarah Southworth One Third Part of said Thirty Acres of Land as Above Expressed to be Equally Divided as Abovesaid for Quantity & Quality & Also a Cow & One half of Said Interest in the Estate of Mr. Ichabod Keith abovedescribed which I Give to her & to her Heirs – forever as also a Joint Priviledge in my Dwelling House with her Mother in the Southerly Part of it being the Lower Square Room & Chamber over it, with Liberty of Passing from Said Lower Room to the Chamber Above & also Thro’ the Old Part to the Well for Water & a Priviledge with her Mother in the Cellar which Priviledge is to be continued so Long as She Remains Unmarried together with One half of my Indoor Moveables and an Equal Right with my Heirs In my Books which I Esteem to be her Equal & Just Part of my Estate ~  Furthermore I do hereby Utterly Revoke and Disanull all former Wills & Testaments Ratifying Confirming & Openly Declaring this to be my Last Will & Testament In Witness Whereof I do hereto Set my hand & Seal this fourth Day of September Anno 1775

Signed Sealed & Declared

In Presence of us ~                                                                                                              Constant Southworth                      (seal)

Jesse Perkins

Huntington Porter

Simeon Brett

 

Presented for probate on 4 Dec. 1775 by Nathll. Southworth, the Executor therein named, and proved by Jesse Perkins and Simeon Brett, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Nathll. Southworth, the before named Executor, with Mathew Kingman and Jesse Perkins, Yeomen, all of Bridgwater, as sureties.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

Bridgwater November ye. 11th 1775 ~

Wee the Subscribers Heirs of our Hond. Father Constant Southworth Late of Bridgwater Deceased Do hereby Acknowledge that we have Receiv’d of Nathll. SouthWorth as he was made Executor of the Last Will & Testament of the Said Constant Southworth in full of Our Portions According to the Tennor of Said Will in Every Article & Paragraph thereof We say Receiv’d By us As Witness our hands & Seals

Attest Mary X Warren                                                                                                        Ezekiel Southworth                             (seal)

Asa Hold                                                                                                                               Jedediah Southworth                         (seal)

Desire Cole                                                                                                                           Joseph Cole Junr.                                (seal)

                                                                                                                                                Bette Cole                                             (seal)

                                                                                                                                                Sarah Southworth                               (seal)

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 24, p. 51-55, from FHL microfilm #0550713.

 

 

Will of Edward Southworth of Brockton, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1877) *

Be it remembered that I Edward Southworth of Brockton in the County of Plymouth and Commonwealth of Massachusetts do make and publish this my last will and testament in manner following: that is to say,

First. I order and direct that all my just debts and all proper charges against my estate be paid.

Second. I give and bequeath to my son George Southworth the sum of one hundred dollars to be paid to him in one year after the day of my decease.

Third. I give and bequeath to my son Frederic Southworth the sum of one hundred dollars, to be paid to him in one year after the day of my decease.

Fourth. I give and bequeath to my daughter Ella F. Southworth the sum of one hundred dollars to be paid to her in one year after the day of my decease.

Fifth. I give and bequeath to Esther Louise Southworth, wife of my son Frederick Southworth, the sum of one hundred dollars to be paid to her in one year after the day of my decease.

Sixth, I give devise and bequeath to my beloved wife Julia Ann Southworth all the rest and residue of my estate of every name and nature to have and to hold the same to her and her heirs and assigns for her and their use and behoof forever.

Seventh, I hereby revoke all former wills by me heretofore made, and constitute and appoint said Julia Ann Southworth of Brockton Executrix of this my will.

                In testimony whereof I hereunto set my hand and seal, and declare this to be my last will, in presence of three witnesses, this twenty eighth day of February in the year of our Lord eighteen hundred and seventy seven.

                                                                                                                                Edward Southworth                        (seal)

Signed, sealed, published and declared by the above named Edward Southworth, as and for his last will and testament in our presence, who in his presence and at his request, and in the presence of each other have hereunto subscribed our names as witnesses.

                                                W. S. Baker.

                                                Rufus P. Kingman.

                                                Lucy A. Whelden.

 

Henry A. Ford and Jonathan White, of Brockton, petitioned for probate of the estate of Edward Southworth, late of Brockton, on the third Monday of April. 1877, with Henry W. Robinson and Lyman Clark, of Brockton, as sureties, the executrix therein named having declined. Letter of Administration with will annexed was granted to Henry A. Ford and Jonathan White, of Brockton, on 16 Apr. 1877.

 

Henry A. Ford and Jonathan White resigned as administrators of the estate of Edward Southworth, late of Brockton, and Frederick Howard and Jonathan White were granted administration of the estate on 28 May 1877, with Lyman Clark and Henry W. Robinson, of Brockton, as sureties. 

 

To the Honorable the Judge of the Probate County for the County of Plymouth.

Respectfully represents Jonathan White of Brockton in said County, that at a Probate Court holden at said Brockton on the third Monday of April last past, he and Henry A. Ford were appointed Administrators with the will annexed of the estate of Edward Southworth, late of said Brockton deceased, testate and gave bonds for the discharge of said trust as required by law; that said Ford there afterwards being unable by reason of ill health to discharge the duties of said trust was allowed to resign his said office.

Wherefore and because it is desirable that there should be two administrators of said estate your petitioner prays that he may be allowed to resign his said trust. And your petitioner further represents that he has not received into his hands any property of said deceased or further acted in said trust than to give notice of his appointment, and therefore has no account to file.

Mary 28, 1877                                                                                     Jona. White

                Commonwealth of Massachusetts. Plymouth ss,

At a Probate Court holden at Abington in said County on the fourth Monday of May A.D. 1877.

It appearing that Jonathan White Adm. With the will annexed of Edward Southworth deceased has resigned the trust of Administrator as aforesaid. It is thereupon ordered that said resignation be accepted.

                                                                                Wm. H. Wood, J. P. C.

 

To the Honorable the Judge of the Probate Court in and for the County of Plymouth.

Respectfully represents Julia Ann Southworth of Brockton in said County, that she is widow of Edward Southworth late of said Brockton, deceased; that said deceased made certain provision for her in his last will, which will has been duly proved allowed in said Court within six months last past, and that she hereby waives the provision so made for her in said will, and gives notice that she will claim her dower in the lands of said deceased, and her distributive share of his personal estate.

Dated this thirteenth day of October A.D. 1877.

                                                                                                                Julia A. Southworth

 

Frederick Howard and Jona. White, administrators of the estate of Edward Southworth, late of Brockton, notified the court that the estate was insolvent, and Williams Latham of Bridgewater and Henry A. Ford, of Brockton, were appointed to examine the claims against the estate on 15 Oct. 1877.

 

Julia A. Southworth, widow of Edward Southworth, late of Brockton, petitioned for her dower from the estate of her late husband on the fourth Monday of Dec. 1877. Williams Latham of Bridgewater, Elisha H. Joslyn and Edward Crocker, of Brockton, were appointed to set off to her her dower in all the real estate of the deceased on 15 Oct. 1877. They gave their oath before Jona. White, Justice of the Peace, on 15 Nov. 1877.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 142, p. 213-214, from FHL microfilm #0556649, Vol. 120, pp. 120, 454, Vol. 142, pp. 285-286, 351, Vol. 127, p. 277, and Vol. 113, p. 232.

 

 

Will of John Southworth of Duxbury, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1750) *

The Last Will and Testement of John Southworth of Duxborough in the County of Plimouth in the province of the Massachusets Bay in New England Gentleman: I the Said John Southworth Being under maney Bodly Infermitys yet of perfect mind and memorey thanks Be Given To Almighty God therefor Calling to mind the mortality of my Body Do upon Serious Consideration make and Ordain these presents To Be my Last Will and Tesament To Remain firm and Inviolable forever that is to Say First of all I Give and Recomend my Soule into the Hands of God that Gave it and My Body I Recomend to the Earth to be Buried in Decent Christian maner at the Decretion of my Executor hereafter named Nothing Doubting but at the Generail Resurection I Shall Receve the Same again by the Almighty power of God & as Touching Such Worldly Estate Wherewith it hath pleased God to Bless me in this Life I Give Demise and Dispose of ye. Same in the Following manor and Forme

Imprimis I Give and Bequeath unto my sister Prisalah Southworth a Convenent fire Roume in my Dwelling House and a Sufficienty of Fire Wood in the Woods for one Fire and the pastering of one Cow During the Time of her Natural Life and Forther one third of my movable Estate after my Debts and Funeral Charges are paid out of the Same: Item: I Give and Bequeath unto Sister in Law Rebeckah Southworth the one Roome of my Dwelling House to Improve her Life Time: Item: I Give and Bequeath unto my Kinswoman Mary Weston the Wife of Thomas Weston three or four acres of Land that I Bought of Bezalel Alden of Duxborough adjacent to apeace of Land that I Sold To the Said Mary and Forther the Remainder of the Lot that I Sold to the Said Mary Weston When I Sold it her name was Mary Southworth the Remainder of the Lot I Say Excepting three acres at the Easterly Side of the Same – Item, I Give and Bequeath unto Reumah Southworth Daughter of William Southworth one third part of my movable Estate after my Debts are paid out of the Same

Item. I Give and Bequeath unto Edward Southworth Son to Willm Southworth all my Wearing Cloathes

I Give and Bequeath unto William Southworth the Son of Constant Southworth of Duxborough Deceased all my Lands and meadows housing in Duxborough During the Terme of his Natural Life and forther one third of my movables after my Debts are paid out of the Same

I Give and Bequeath unto Edward Southworth herein before Named all the Lands and Meaddows at his Fathers Decease that I have herin given to his father William Southworth –

Lastly my Will is that William Southworth herein Before named be the Sole Executor of this my Last Will and Testement thus Hoping that this my Last Will be Keept and performed According To the True intent and meaning thereof in Witness Whereof I the aforesaid John Southworth have hereunto Sett my hand and Seal this Fifteenth Day of Feburary Anno Domini one one thousand Seven hundred and fifty 1750

Signed Sealed and Declaird By                                                                                       John Southworth                              (seal)

the aforenamed John Southworth

To be his Last Will and Testement

in presents of ~

William Thomas

Thomas Hunt junr.

Jonathan Peterson

 

Presented for probate on 2 Sept. 1751 by the Executor therein named, and proved by Willm Thomas, Thomas Hunt jur. and Jonathan Peterson, the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to William Southworth of Duxborough, the aforesaid Executor on 2 Sept. 1751.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of John Southworth Gentelman late of Duxborough, was appraised on 25 Sept. 1751 by Gamaliel Bradford Esqr., Joshua Soule, and Jonathan Peterson, totaled £853.8.8, including his real estate valued at £716.13.4. Willm. Southworth, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 18 Dec. 1751.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 12, pp. 321-323, 412, from FHL microfilm #0551539.

 

 

Will of Priscilla Southworth of Duxbury, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1761) *

The Last will & Testament of Priscilla Southworth of Duxborough In the County of Plymouth in the Province of the Massachusets Bay In New England Spinster I the Said Priscilla Southworth being under many bodily Infirmitys yet of Perfect Mind & memory Thanks be given To almighty God therefor Calling To mind the Mortallity of My boddy & Know that it Is appointed for all men once To Die, Do uppon serious Considertation Make and ordain these Presents to be my Last will & Testament to Remain Firm & Invoilable for Ever that is To Say first of all I give & Recommend My Soul into the hands of God that gave it & my body I Recommend To the Earth to be buried in Decen Cristian Manner at the Descretion of My Executor herein after named nothing Doupting but at the general Resurrection I Shall Receve the Sam again by the Almighty Power of God & as Touching Such worldly Estate wherewith it hath Pleased God to bless me in this Life I Give Devise & Dispose of the Same in the following mannor & forme

Imps. I give & bequeth unto my Cusson William Southworth a note that I had of my Brother John Southworth for Sixteen Pounds & to the sd. William Southworths Children all Equally my Cow amongst them

Item I give & bequeth Burna Southworth my white fan

Item I give & bequeth to Alice Southworth Daughter To William Southworth an Infant whom I named Eight Shillings Lawfull monny

Item I give & bequeth unto my four Cousens viz Ruth Soul & Deborah Hunt wife To John Hunt Alik King wife To Edward King & Mary Weston two Thirds of all my Estate after my Debts & funeral Charges are Paid out of the Same that is Two Thirds of all that is not herein before given away To be Equally Divided amongst them

Item I give & bequeth the Remaining third of my Estate to be Equally Devided between My Six Cousens viz Mary Soul wife To Micah Soul Mary Weston wife To Thomas Weston Mary Southworth wife To William Southworth Hannah Herrenton widdow Elizabeth Southworth Deborah Delino wife To Ruben Delino

Lastly My will is that Elnathan Weston be Sole Executor of this my Last will and Testament thus hooping that this my Last will & Testament be Keept & Performed according To the Trew Intent & meaning thereof I the Said Priscilla Southworth have hereunto Set my hand & Seal this fifth Day of June Anno Domini one thousand Seven hundred Sixty one

Signd. Sealed & Declared by the aforenamed                                                                                her

Priscilla Southworth to be her Last will                                                                           Priscilla  X  Southworth                     (seal)

& Testament in Presence of –                                                                                                           mark

William Simmons

Anna Simmons

Jona. Peterson

 

Presented for probate on 3 Aug. 1761 by Elnathan Weston, the Executor therein named, and proved by Willm. Simmons and Jonathan Peterson, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Elnathan Weston, the Executor.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 16, p. 204-206, from FHL microfilm #0551543.

 

 

Will of Thomas Southworth of Duxbury, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1742) *

In the Name of God Amen, the twenty first day of August One thousand Seven hundred and two [side note: probably forty two], I Thomas Southworth of the Town of Duxborough in the County of Plymo in New England Gentleman having Thoughts of my Departure from this life:  But of perfect Mind and Memory Thanks be Given to god, therefore Do ordain, this my Last Will and Testament. That is to Say, My Soul I Recommend into the Hands of God that gave it; And my body I Recommend to the Earth to be bured at ye Discretion of my Executors; Nothing doubting but at the great day of Christs appearance both body and Soul shall be Reunited together again: And as touching such worldly Estate as it hath pleased God to bless me with in this life, I give Devise and Dispose of the same in the following manner and form –

Imprimis, I Give unto my Daughter Hannah Southworth The widdow of my late son Jedediah Southworth, One hundred pounds and a part of sd hundred hounds [sic] is one Case of Draws and a Brass kittle, and the Remainder of sd. hundred pounds in any of my moveable Estate that she doth See Cause to take after my Estate is Prized: and I allso further give to my sd. Daughter Hannah the whole Improvement of all my Estate untill John Southworth my Grandson Shall arrive to ye. age of twenty and one years or the first Male heir that my attain to age (of my late sons Children) provided my sd. Daughter Hannah Remain my son widdow, but if she Shall marry at her Mariage the improvement of my Estate shall their be for the use of my late son Children: And when my Grandson John is of age then he shall have one half of all ye. improvement of my sd. Estate and sd. Hannah the other half Dureing her Widdowhood.

Imprimis, I Give unto my Grand daughter Deborah Loring a bed and what furniture that doth now belong unto ye Same with all ye. wareing Cloaths that my Late wife left as they are now at the house of Joshua Lorings in Duxborough –

Item, I give to my five Grandsons Lorings the Remainder of my Houshold Goods that are at sd. Joshua Lorings house to be Equally Divided amongst them all –

Item I give to my Grandson John Southward Mr. Willards Exposition on the Catechisms and my Will further is when he Comes of age that he may purchase the whole or part of my Estate as he shall think proper as it then may be prized by three sufficient men; & in Case he Die a Minor, Then my Grandson James shall have the Same privilige of making the like purchase –

Item, I give to my Grandson James Southworth my best Bible And then I give all the Remainder of all my Estate both Real and personal in the Town of Duxborough unto sd five Children of my late Son Jedediah Southworth And it is to be divided amongst them agreable to the Law of this Province made for sd Estates of Intestates ~~  I Likewise Constitute make and ordain my said Daughter Hannah Southworth and Joshua Delano my Executors of this my last will and Testament, And I do hereby utterly Disallow Revoke and Disanull all and Every other former Testaments Wills Legacies and bequests and Executors by me in any ways before named willed and Bequeathed Ratyfieing and Confirming this and no other to be my last will and Testament, In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and Seal ye Day and year abovewritten

Signed Sealed Published pronounced and Declared by the sd. Thomas Southworth as his Last Will and Testament In the Presence of us the Subscribers –

John Hunt                                                                                                                             Thomas Southworth                        (seal)

Joseph Bartlet

Asa Hunt

 

Presented for probate on 22 Sept. 1742 by the Executors above named, and proved by Jno Hunt, Joseph Bartlet, and Asa Hunt, the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Hannah Southworth, widow, and Joshua Dellano, housewright, both of Duxborough, on 22 Sept. 1742.

 

Deacon James Arnold, Samuel Weston, and Moses Sole, all of Duxborough, were appointed to appraise the estate real and personal of Thomas Southworth, late of Duxboro., on 22 Sept. 1742. The Inventory was dated 14 Oct. 1742, and totaled £1230.17.0, including his farm with all the outlands valued at £886. Joshua Dellano and Hannah Southworth, the Executors, gave their oath to the inventory on 10 Jan. 1742[/43].

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 9, pp. 4-6, 25-27, from FHL microfilm #0551533.

 

 

Will of Capt. Ephraim Spooner of Abington, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1771) *

In the Name of God Amen this first Day of November in the Year of our Lord 1771 I Ephraim Spooner of Abington in the County of Plymouth in New England Gentm: being weak of Body but of a Perfect Mind & Memory thanks be given to God therefor calling to Mind the frailty & Mortallity of my Body & that it is Appointed for all Men once to Die I do make and ordain this my last Will & Testament in Manner and form following (Viz) First of all I commit & commend my Soul into the Hands of God that gave it & my Body to a decent Burial at the discretion of my Executors hereafter Named And as Touching such Worldly Estate it hath pleased God to bless me with all I give & dispose of the same after my Debts & Funeral Charges are first paid by my Executors hereafter named out of my personal Estate ~

Item, I give & Bequeath unto my loving Wife Mercy Spooner the Improvement of one third of my Real Estate during the term of her Natural Life & one Third of all my personal Estate both Indoor & out door to dispose of as she sees cause for ever after my decease ~

Item I give & Bequeath to my Daughter Sarah Jenkens four Acres of Swamp Land the Same is one half of the Eight Acres that I bought of John Howel the Sd. four Acres is bounded as follows Northerly upon my former Land or Swamp, it being the Northel to her & her Heirs and Assigns forever & one third part of all my Real & personal Estate reducting the abovesaid four Acres out of her third part as the four Acres is now Worth at this date I give to her & her Heirs & Assigns for ever after my decease excepting what I gave to my Wife in this Will of mine ~

Item I give & Bequeath unto my Daughter Mary Spooner one third Part of all my Real & Personal to her & Heirs & Assigns for ever after my decease Excepting what I gave to my Wife in this Will of mine before —

Item I give & Bequeath unto my Daughter Ruth Spooner one third part of all my Estate both real & personal to her & her Heirs & Assigns forever after my decease excepting what I have given to my Wife in this Will of mine

And last I do hereby Nominate Constitute & Appoint David Jenkens Junr. of Abington & my Wife Mary Spooner to be Executors of this my last Will and Testament And I the Sd. Ephraim Spooner do here by declaring & making Void all other & former Wills by me made and in Testimony of this being my last Will & Testament I have hereunto Set my Hand & Seal the Day & Year first before within written~

Sign’d Sealed Published

and pronounced & declared by me

the Sd. Ephraim Spooner to be his last

Will & Testament in presence of us

Whitcomb Pratt

Benoni Gurney                                                                                                                     Ephraim Spooner                            (seal)

Thos. Wilks

 

Presented for probate on 3 Feb. 1777 by David Jenkens Junr. and Mary Spooner, the Executors therein named, and proved by Benoni Gurney and Thos. Wilks, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to David Jenkens Junr and Mary Spooner, the before named Executors.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Capt. Ephraim Spooner, late of Abington, was appraised on 7 Apr. 1777 by Thomas Wilks, Benoni Gurney, and Daniel Shaw, and totaled £996.1.0, including his home, barn and land valued at £664.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 24, p. 261-264, from FHL microfilm #0550713.

 

 

Will and Codicil of Nathaniel Spooner of Plymouth, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1817) *

In the name of God Amen. I Nathaniel Spooner of Plymouth in the County of Plymouth & Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Esqr. being of sound & disposing mind & memory do make & ordain this to be my last Will & Testament.—  First of all I commend my soul to the mercy of God that gave it, & my body to a decent funeral, humbly praying for a glorious resurrection through Jesus Christ—And as to my worldly Estate I give & bequeath the same in manner following—

        First—after all my just debts are paid I give & bequeath to my beloved wife Mary Spooner the whole of my estate both real and personal in Plymouth aforesaid & elsewhere, wherever the same may be found, excepting the legacies hereafter named, which I give & bequeath to my children.

        Second—I give & bequeath to each one of my children the sum of five dollars to be paid to each one of them in six months after my decease by my Executrix hereafter named—viz. to my Son Nathaniel Spooner five dollars—to my son Bourn Spooner five dollars, to my Son William Spooner five dollars, to my daughter Deborah Russell five dollars, to my son John Adams Spooner five dollars, to my son Charles Walter Spooner five dollars, to my son Thomas Spooner five dollars, to my daughter Mary Spooner five dollars, to my son Horatio Nelson Spooner five dollars, & to my daughter Esther Shaw Spooner five dollars. These legacys above named I give & bequeath to my said children.

        Lastly I do constitute & appoint my beloved wife Mary to be Sole Executrix to this my last Will & Testament, & I have hereunto set my hand & seal this second day of January AD one thousand eight hundred & seventeen  —

        Signd Seald & declared to be his

last will & Testament in presence of us                                                                          Nathl Spooner                   (seal)

                Charles Marcy

                Priscilla Cotton

                Bartlett M. Bramhall

                Rosseter Cotton

 

This Codicil to my last Will & Testament made this 29th day of September AD 1821. Whereas I have given to my wife Mary my whole estate I except the right in what estate she may have at her decease of mine & which may be divided amongst my children of baring them from bringing any accounts or demands against my estate, if they do, it is to be deducted out of their shares of my estate which I have given my said wife. In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand & seal the day abovesaid.

        Signd Seald and declared to be a codicil to my last Will & Testament in presence of us

                John Bassett                                                                                                         Nathl Spooner                   (seal)

                Roland E. Cotton

                Rosseter Cotton

 

Presented for probate on 20 Mar. 1826 by Mary Spooner, the Executrix therein named, the will proved by Charles Marcy & Rosseter Cotton, the witnesses, and the codicil proved by Roland E. Cotton & Rosseter Cotton, the witnesses, administration granted unto Mary Spooner, the Executrix therein named.

 

James Spooner, Ellis Holmes & Wm. S. Ripley, al of Plymouth, were appointed to appraise the estate of Nathaniel Spooner, Esq., late of Plymouth, on 20 Mar. 1826. The Inventory was not dated, but very large, totaling $10,832.75, including 1/4th of B. Gov. Carver at Sea valued at $400, 5 bank shares valued at $475, a dwelling house on Summer Street valued at $3000, and many other parcels of land and houses. Mary Spooner, the Executrix, gave her oath to the inventory on 19 June 1826.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 60, pp. 172-174, 462-464, from FHL microfilm #0550911.

 

 

Will of Thomas Spooner of Plymouth, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1762) *

In the name of God Amen I Thomas Spooner of Plimouth In the County of Plimouth Cordwinder being Advanced in years and Not Knowing the Day of my Death and haveing a mind To Settle my Worldly Estate before I dye Do make & ordain this To be my Last will & Testament.

Imprs. I Commend My Soul to the Everlasting Mercy of god that gave it and My body To a Decent burial humbly Praying for a glorious Resurrection Thro Jesus Crist – And as To my worldly Estate after my Just Debts & Funeral Charges are Paid I give & bequeth the Same in manner followg

1  I Give To my beloved Wife Sarah the use & Improvement of all my Estate In Plimouth or Elymouth or Else where both Real & Personal During the Time of her widdow hood for her Comfortable Subsistance & Support & Support And if She Should Marry again I give her the one Third of My Moveble Estate to be at her Dispose and also the use & Improve ment and also the use & Improvement of one Third part of my Real Estate during her Natural Life as her full Right of Dowry

2  Whereas my four Eldest Children Ebenezer Patience Thomas & Sarah have had of me Somthing at their Marage & have Sence there Marage Use & Improved Some Part of my Estate I Give To Each of my Two youngest Children Viz Jane & Ephraim Twenty Pounds Lawfull money apece to be Set of to them out of my Estate at my wifes marrage or Deceas before the Said Estate be Devided

3  I Give & bequeth the Remainder of My Estate both Real & Personal to be Equally divided among my Six Children that is To Say Ebenezer Patience Thomas & Sarah Jane & Ephram to Them their heirs and assigns forever They To Come into Possession Part of Said Premeses at my wifes Marrage, and of the Rest at her Decese

Lastly, I nominate & Appoint My well beloved wife Sarah & my three Sons Ebenr. Thomas & Ephram To be Exrs. of this My Last will & Testament Hereby Revokeing & Disannuling All former Wills by me made In Testimony & Confirmation of all which I have hereunto Set my hand & Seal this 29th. Day of Feby. AD one thousand Seven hundred & Sixty two 1762

Singd. Seald. & Declared to be his                                                                                    Thomas Spooner                              (seal)

Last will & Testament In Presen

Of   Nathan Delino

        John Cotton

        Hannah Cotton

 

Presented for probate on 28 Apr. 1763 by Ebenezer Spooner, Thomas Spooner, and Ephram Spooner, the Executors therein named, and proved by John Cotton Esqr. and Hannah Cotton, two of the witnesses. Administration was granted unto Ebenezer, Thomas and Ephram, the Executors.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Mr. Thos. Spooner late of Plimouth, was appraised on 18 May 1763 by James Hovey, Jonathan Diman, and Silvanus Bartlett, and totaled £715.6.8, including his real estate which totaled £635.6.8. Ebenezer Spooner, Thomas Spooner, and Ephraim Spooner, the Executors, gave their oath to the inventory on 20 Aug. 1763.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 16, pp. 433-434, 489, from FHL microfilm #0551543.

 

 

Will of William Spooner of Dartmouth, Colony of New Plymouth (1683) *

                                March 8th, 1683

The Last will & Testament of William Spooner being aged & weake of body but yet in perfect understanding & memory wherein I have disposed of my estate as followeth

Imprmis I give unto my son John Spooner that thirty acres of land where he now dwelleth with Twenty acres more to be added thereunto at ye north Division of Dartmouth Lands to him his heirs & assignes for ever, also I give unto my grandson one forth part of a share of all ye undivided lands in ye Township of Dartmouth with two acres of my three acres of good meadow Lying on ye west side of Sconticutt neck at ye entrnit[?] in yt ye neck to him his heirs & assignes for ever. also I give ye bed which I now lodge on unto my aforesaid Grandson; also I give unto my son Ebenezer Spooner eight pounds to be paid unto him three years after my Decease in good currant pay also I give unto my Son Isaac five shillings; also I give unto my son in Law John Sherman my great Coat & unto my Daughter Sarah Sherman I give one Cow; also I give unto my Daughter Martha Whing on Cow: also I give unto my Daughter Hanah & her son Josua one Cow or the value of a Cow. I give also unto my Daughter Mercy to be Delivered unto her two years after my Decease, also I give & bequeath unto my Son Samuell aforesaid my house & ye Seat of land be Longing to it both upland & meadow Containing fourty acres more or less with one acre of my three acres of good meadow lying on ye west side of Sconticutt aforesaid unto him his heires & assignes for ever: Also I give all ye rest of my upland already laid out with one fourth part of a share of all undevided lands except that twenty acres I give unto my Son John as aforesaid to be equally Devided between my Son Samuell & my Son William to them their heires & assignes for ever: also I give ye rest of my neat cattell to be equally Devided amogst my two three sons John Samuell & William, also all ye remainder of my Layed out meadow I give to be equally Devided amongst my three Sons John Samuell & william to them & their heirs for ever; also I give all my houshold goods of all sorts to be equally Devided amongst my Son Samuell & my Daughter Hanah & my Daughter Mercy: also I make my Son Samuell my Sole executor and I have made choyce of my two friends Seth Pope & Thomas Tabor for my overseers to see this my Will performed.

Signed & sealed in ye presence of                                                                                    William Spooner  X  his mark

John Jenney his X mark                                                                                                                     &            (seal)

Thomas Tabor

 

March ye 14th 1683: The Inventory of ye Lands, goods & Chattels of William Spooner of the Towne of Dartmouth late Deceased —

[Totaled £201.15.0, including his house & land valued at £150.0]

Taken by us ye Day & year above written

Seth Pope P his marke

Thomas Tabor

                                on ye oath of Samuell Spooner

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth Colony Records, Wills Vol. 4, Part 2, p. 71.

 

 

Will of Ebenezer W. Sprague of Middletown, Delaware County, New York (1897) *

  In the Name of God, Amen, I, Ebenezer W Sprague of Middletown Delaware County New York being of sound mind and memory, and considering the uncertainty of this life, do therefore make, ordain, publish and declare, this to be my last Will and Testament. That is to say, First, after all my lawful debts are paid and discharged, I give and bequeath to Olivia A Joslyn My daughter all of my personal property of every name and nature except $50.00 which I direct the Executrix to hold for my grand dauter Effel Olivia Sprague till she become 21 years old and then said $50.00 I dirct to be paid to said grand daughter also I give and bequeath to my son Edwin O. Sprague the sum of one dollar

Likewise I make, constitute and appoint Olivia Joslyn to be Executrix of this my last Will and Testament, hereby revoking all former Wills by me made.

                In Witness Whereof, I have hereunto subscribed my name, and affixed my seal, the 17th day of December in the year one thousand eight hundred and Ninety Seven                                                                                                                                                     his

                Witness,                                                                                                                 Ebenezer  X W Sprague                                     (seal)

                                                                                                                                                                 mark

                The above instrument, consisting of one sheet, was at the date thereof subscribed by Ebenezer W Sprague the Testator named in the foregoing Will, in the presence of us and each of us, and at the time of making such subscription the above instrument was declared by the said Testator to be his last Will and Testament, and each of us, at the request of said Testator and in his presence, and in the presence of each other, signed our names as witnesses thereto, at the end of the Will.

Edwin A. More                    Residing at Middletown  Del. Co. N.Y.

H. O. Van Bruschoten        Residing at Middletown  Del Cou  NY

 

Olivia A. Josselyn was granted Letters Testamentary on the estate of Ebenezer W. Sprague, late of Middletown, on 7 Mar. 1898.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Delaware County Probate Wills Vol. Q, p. 341-342, from FHL microfilm #0833517, and Letters Testamentary Vol. J, p. 37.

 

 

Will of John Sprague of Duxbury, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1739) *

Know all Men by these Preasants that I John Sprague Senr of Duxborough in the County of Plimouth in the Province of the Massachusetts Bay in New England Husbandman being very Weak and Sick in Body, but of Perfect Mind and Memory Thanks be given to Almighty God therefor, Calling to minde the Mortallity of my Body, and that it is appointed for all Men once to Dye, do upon Serious thought and Consideration make & Ordain these Preasants to be my last Will & Testament in manner and form following to remain firm and Inviolable forever ~ Imprimis I Recomend my Soul into the Hands of the Almighty God the Father of Spirits who gave it, and my Body I Recomend to the Earth to be Decently Buried in Christian Manner at the Discretion of my Executors herein after Named in hopes of a Beter Resurection thrô my Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ ~ And as Touching all such Worldly and Temporall Estate wherewith it hath pleased God to bless me in this Life I Give, Demise, and Dispose thereof in the following manner and form—vizt

First my Will is that all my Just Debts, & Funerall Charges be payed and Discharged.

            Item I give unto my Eldest Son John Sprague all my Wearing Apparrell. Item I give unto my Son Peleg Sprague a Red Cow

            Item I give unto my Son Abijah Sprague one halfe of the whole of the Farm of Land whereon I now Dwell—both upland and meadow and Meadow land with one halfe of all the Houseing, Fenceing and Orchard thereon & thereunto belonging and also one halfe of all other Use, Profits, Priveliges and Appurtenances thereof, and thereunto belonging, to him the sd Abijah Sprague, his Heirs and Assigns forever provided He, or theay pay all the abovesd Debts & Funerall charges

            Item. I give unto my Daughter Bethiah Curtis the Wife of David Curtis one Cow

Item I give unto my Daughter Rebeckah Arnold the Wife of Ezra Arnold five Pounds to be paid out of my Personall Estate.

            Item. I give to my Daughter Joanna Arnold the Wife of James Arnold five Pounds to be paid out of my ~ Personall Estate.

            Item. I give to my Daughter Lusanna Sprague one Bed with all the Furniture thereto belonging it being the Bed whereon I Usually Lodge

            Item. I give to my Daughter Aseneth Sprague one Bed with all the Beding and furniture thereto belonging

            Item. I give to my two abovenamed Daughters viz Lusanna Sprague and Aseneth Sprague my Biggest Brass Kettle equally between them.

            Item. I give to my two Sons vizt John Sprague & Peleg Sprague two young Heifers Equally between them. of a Year & Vantage old

            Item. I give to my Son Abijah Sprague my old Mare also two young Cattle being a Yearling and a Calfe

            Item. I give to my two Sons vizt Peleg Sprague and Abijah Sprague my Colt equally between them being more than a year old

            Item. I give to my three Sons, vizt John Sprague, Peleg Sprague and Abijah Sprague all my Swine to be Equally divided among them.

            Item. All the Residue of my Moveable Estate I give to my abovementioned Daughters vizt Bethiah Curtis, Rebeckah Arnold, and Joanna Arnold, Lusanna Sprague and Aseneth Sprague to be Equally Divided among them.

            Item. I do hereby Constitute, Ordain make and Appoint my two Sons vizt John Sprague and Peleg Sprague to be Sole Executors of this my last Will and Testament. & I do hereby Utterly Disallow revoak and Disanull, all and every other and former Wills and Testaments by Me heretofore made; Ratifieing this and no Other to be my last Will and Testament  In Witness whereof I have hereunto sett my Hand and Seal the Twenty Seventh Day of November in the Year of our Lord God, one Thousand Seven Hundred and thirty nine

Signd Seald published pronounced                                                                                   John Sprague                    (seal)

and Declared by the sd John

Sprague to be his last Will and

Testament in Preasance of

us the Subscribers

Moses Soul

John Samson

John Wadsworth

 

Proved on 7 Jan. 1739[/40] by Moses Soul, John Samson, and John Wadsworth, the witnesses.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of John Sprague, late of Duxborough, was appraised by Moses Soul, Edwd. Arnold and Saml. Weston on 15 Jan. 1739[/40], not totaled, but his farm was valued at £430.0. Peleg Sprague, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 4 Jan. 1739[/40] [sic-Feb.?].

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 8, pp. 147-150, from FHL microfilm #0551531.

 

 

Will of Jonathan Sprague of Bridgewater, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1748) *

In the Name of God Amen,

the Eighth day of November in the Year of our Lord One Thousand Seven Hundred and fourty Eight, I Jonathan Sprague of Bridgwater in the County of Plimouth in NewEngland Housewright, being in Health and of Perfect and Disposing mind and memory, thanks be to God therefor, and calling to mind the mortality of my body and knowing it is appointed for all men Once to dye Do Ordain and make this my last Will and Testament, That is to Say, Principally and first of all I Give and Recommend my Soul to God who Gave it Hoping thro’ the Merrits, Death & Passion of Jesus Christ, to have full and free parden of all my Sins and to inherit everlasting Life, and my body I committ to the Earth to be Decently interred @ the Discretion of my Execr. and Executrix hereafter named, nothing Doubting but @ the Generall Resurrection I shall Receive the same again by the Mighty Power of God, and as Touching such Worldly Estate as it hath Pleased God to Bless me in this Life, I give and Dispose of the Same in the following manner and form, that is to say,  In the first place my Will is that all my Lawfull and Honest Debts be Discharged in a convenient Time after my decease by my Execr. hereafter named,

Item I Give and Bequeath unto my well=beloved wife Lydia, the whole Improvment of my Homstead during her Widow=hood or @ Least till my Son Benjamin Shall arrive to the age of Twenty One Years, and after that one third of said Improvmt, During her naturall Life,

Item I Give and Bequeath unto my Daughter Lydia the wife of James Keith, Twenty five Shillings lawfull money to be paid by my Said Executor when he Shall arrive to the age of Twenty One Years,

Item. I Give and Bequeath unto my Daughter Hannah ye wife of Solomon Bates twenty five Shillings lawfull Money to be paid by my said Execr. when he Shall arrive to the age aforesaid,

Item. I Give and Bequeath unto my Son Jonathan five Shillings Lawfull money to be paid by my said Execr. when shall arrive to the age aforesaid, having already given to my my said Son Jonathan a Deed, of my Interest of Lands @ Providence, tho’ I have Since purchas’d them of him again

Item I Give and Bequeath unto my Daughter Mary the wife of Nathan Edson the sum of fifteen pence lawfull money to be paid by my said Executor when he shall come of age

Item, I Give and Bequeath unto my Daughters Constant & Metty+ all my Indoore moveables to be equally Divided between them after my wife’s decease

Item  I Give unto my Son John Twenty five Shillings Lawfull money to be paid by my said Executor @ the Time aforesd

Item  I Give and Bequeath unto my Son Benjamin all my Homestead, to him his heirs and Assigns forever, also I give unto him all my Carpenters Tools, and all of my out of Door Moveables excepting One Cow, also I give unto him a Striped Silk Blankett & a fustian Blankett, whom I appoint to be Executor with my said wife of this my last Will and Testament,

Further I Give unto my said wife One Cow, and do appoint her to be the Executrix (with my said Son Benjamin) Of this my Last Will and Testament, and do Hereby utterly disalow, revoke & Disanull all and every Other former Testaments, Wills & Legacies Bequests and Execrs. and Exeurxs. by me in any wise before this Time made Willed and Bequeathed, Ratifying and Confirmg this and No Other to be my last Will and Testament, In Witness whereof I have hereunto Set my hand & Seal the day and Year Abovesaid,

Signed Sealed, Published pronounced                                                                            Jonathan Sprague

and Declared by the said Jonathan

Sprague to be his last Will & Testamt,

In Presence of us ~~

Josiah Edson Junr.

Eleazer Carver

John Washburn

 

Presented for probate on 3 May 1756 by the Executors therein named, and proved by Josiah Edson Esqr. and Eleazer Carver, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to his Widow Lydia Sprague and his Son Benjamin Sprague, the Executors, on 3 May 1756.

 

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 14, p. 137-139, from FHL microfilm #0551542.

+ Her name recorded as Betty in her birth record.

 

 

Will of Nathaniel Sprague of Rochester, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1797) *

In the name of God Amen. The fourth day of January in the year of our Lord one thousand, seven hundred & ninety seven. I Nathaniel Sprague of Rochester in the county of Plymouth, in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Esqr. being of sound & disposing mind and memory, yet calling to mind the mortality of man, and that it is appointed to all mankind once to die, do make and ordain this my last will and testament. And first and principally, I give and bequeath my immortal spirit to God my creator, preserver & redeemer, and my body to the earth, from whence it was taken, to be buried in a decent & christian manner, at the discretion of my Executor herein after named & appointed. And as touching that portion of worldly estate wherewith it has pleased God to bless me, I do dispose of it in the following manner & form, that is to say

  Imprimis. I Give and bequeath to my well beloved wife, Elisabeth Sprague, the use & improvement of the two south or front rooms, in my dwelling house, together with the chambers over them; and the free use of the kitchin, the well, and the yard round the house, so long as she shall continue my widow, and also the annual Rent of the whole of the remaining part of my real estate in sd. Rochester, to be rented and hired out as herein after directed for ye same term.

   I also give & bequeath to my said wife, the use & improvement of all my personal Estate of whatever nature or kind (after taking out such articles as are herein, hereafter particularily given away, and after the payment of all my just debts & funeral charges, and the expence of settling my estate) for the same term.

and if my said widow should marry again, it is my will that she should have the Interest of the proceeds of one third part of what my said real estate shall be sold for, (as is herein, hereafter provided for) during the term of her natural life, as also the one half of the personal estate, after taking out the particular articles herein after given away, as aforesaid, and the payment of my just debts, funeral charges, & the charges of settling the estate; or the value of them, if they are before that time sold by my Executors—the same to be hers, her heirs & assigns forever. And it is my will, that my Executors lease out my real Estate in Rochester, on such terms & on such conditions during the widowhood of my said wife as their discretion shall direct them, she to recieve the rents thereof, as aforesaid.— And it is further my will, that, directly after the decease or marriage of my said wife, my Executors proceed to make Sale of my said estate in Rochester, in such way & manner, and on such terms, as they shall conceive will be most advantageous to the legatees, to whom the proceeds of such Sale is herein after bequeathed – one third part of which, if my said widow is married, is to be taken & put out at Interest on good security, and the Interest paid to her as aforesaid, during her natural life

   Item – I Give and bequeath to Nathaniel Sprague Spooner, Son of Seth Spooner of New Bedford, Nathaniel Sprague Ruggles, Son of Major Elisha Ruggles, & to Nathaniel Sprague, Son of Peleg Sprague of Keen in the State of New Hampshire, Esqr. to be divided equally among them, the whole of the proceeds of the Sale of my real estate in Rochester, to be sold as aforesaid, and after the decease of my widow, the said one third to be equally divided among them.— It is also my will, that my Executors sell the real estate which I own in the town of New Bedford, in such manner as they shall think most advantageous, and that the money be put to the uses herein after mentioned

  Item – I Give and bequeath to Nathaniel Sprague Ruggles (if the real estate which I own in New Bedford, as aforesaid, shall be sold by my Executors, as aforesaid, for as much as Five Hundred Dollars) the sum of one Hundred Dollars, out of the proceeds of said Sale, Said hundred dollars to be put out at use by my Executors on good Security, and the Interest paid annually to Polly Ruggles, the present wife of Major Elisha Ruggles, so long as she liveth, and if she should die before the said Nathaniel Sprague Ruggles arrives to the age of twenty one years, then the said Hundred Dollars to be kept at Interest as aforesaid untill he shall arrive at the age of twenty one years, at which period the said Sum, both principal & Interest, is to be delivered to the said Nathaniel Sprague Ruggles;–

   But if the said Nathaniel Sprague Ruggles should be of the age of twenty one years or upwards, at the death of the said Polly Ruggles, then at the death of the said Polly the Said Hundred Dollars to be paid to the said Nathaniel Sprague Ruggles

   Item – I Give & bequeath to Nathaniel Clap my nephew (provided the aforesaid real estate shall be sold for the sum of Five Hundred Dollars, as aforesaid) Thirty three Dollars & one third of a Dollar out of the proceeds of such Sale, to him, his heirs & assigns forever

   Item – It is my will that if Kezia Luce, the wife of Stephen Luce, shall for her first child have a Son, and that son shall be named Francis Sprague, or, if for her first child she hath a Daughter, and that Daughter shall be named Ruth Sprague, that in either of these cases, my Executors shall take one Hundred Dollars out of the proceeds of the Sale of my real estate in New Bedford as aforesaid (provided said estate shall have been sold for Five Hundred Dollars, as aforesaid) & put it out at interest on good security the annual Interest of which shall be paid to the said Kezia during her natural life, and after her death, if her oldest child is a Son, so named as aforesaid, if the said son shall be of the age of twenty one years &upwards, the Said Hundred Dollars to be paid to him;—but if the oldest child of the said Kezia be a Daughter, & named as aforesaid, and be of the age of eighteen years & upwards at the death of the said Kezia, the said Hundred Dollars to be paid to the said Daughter;— but if her oldest child be a son so named as aforesaid, and shall be under the age of twenty one years at the death of his mother, my Executors are to put the said Hundred Dollars at Interest, on good Security, from the death of the said Kezia untill the said Son shall arrive at the age of twenty one years — at which time the said sum & Interest shall be paid to the said Son — and if the oldest child of the said Kezia should be a Daughter, & at the death of her mother should be under the age of eighteen years, then my Executors are to put the said Hundred Dollars at Interest from the death of the said Kezia, on good security, and when ye. said Daughter arrives at the age of eighteen years, Said Sum & Interest to be paid to her

   Item – I Give & bequeath to my Sister Mrs. Lucy Haskell the wife of Mr. Micah Haskell, my Silver Watch, which was my brother’s, and Ten Dollars in money, to be paid out of the proceeds of my Personal Estate by my Executors, in one year after my decease

  Item – It is my will that, as soon as may be convenient after my decease, my Executors proceed to make sale of all my live Stock, & all my farming utensills, in such way & manner, as they may think most expedient & beneficial. And it is further my will that such of the houshold furniture as my wife shall think she does not want for present use in the house, be sold by my Executors, as they shall think proper

   Item – I Give and bequeath to the aforesaid Nathaniel Sprague Spooner, Nathaniel Sprague Ruggles, & Nathaniel Sprague, one half of my personal estate which shall remain after the decease of my widow; and if either of them die before they come into possession thereof, their respective shares in the same are to be disposed of in the same manner as is provided in this will for the real estate herein bequeathed to them

   Item – I Give and bequeath to Dorothy Spooner, Daughter of my good friend Seth Spooner of New Bedford Esqr. twenty Dollars

   Item – I Give & bequeath to Ruth Spooner, Sally Spooner & Jane Spooner, Daughters of my good friend Alden Spooner Esqr. twenty Dollars to each of them

   Item – It is my will, that if the aforesaid Nathaniel Sprague, son of Peleg, should die, leaving no issue, that then what is in this will bequeathed to him, is to go in equal shares to his brothers & sisters, if any he have, in want of which, to go to his father Peleg Sprague Esqr.

   Item – It is further my will, that if the aforesaid Nathl. Sprague Spooner should die before he arrives at the age of twenty one years, then whatever is given to him in this will, is to be equally divided amongst his brothers & Sisters

   Item – It is furthermore my will, that if the aforesaid Nathl Sprague Ruggles should die before he arrives at the age of twenty one years, then what money there is given to him in this will, is to be kept at Interest for the use of his mother, during her life, and after her decease to be equally divided amongst her children

   Item – It is my will, that if the said real estate in New Bedford, should be sold by my Executors, as aforesaid, for a less sum than Five hundred Dollars, in that case, the bequest of one hundred Dollars to the use of the wife of Major Ruggles, as aforesaid, Remainder to Nathaniel Sprague Ruggles, shall be in full force notwithstanding—as shall also the bequest of one hundred Dollars to the use of the wife of Stephen Luce, Remainder to her Son & daughter, so particularily named; and in case the said Kezia has no son or daughter, then the aforesaid hundred dollars to be to the said Kezia, her heirs & assigns.– and also, that the aforesaid Nathaniel Clap shall have & recieve of my Executors, what I have bequeathed to him in this will, whether my real estate at New Bedford be Sold for more or less

   Item – I Give & bequeath to my good friend, Enoch Cundel (who has ever been ready to oblige me, and who has been particularily kind and attentive to me in my present Sickness) twenty dollars, to be paid to him by my Executors, within one year after my decease

   Item – I Give & bequeath to my good friend & kinsman, Theophilus Pitcher, thirty dollars, to be paid him in the same time & manner as the legacy last mentioned

  Item – It is furthermore my will, that my Executors pay my just debts & funeral charges out of my personal estate, & that the remainder of the proceeds of the Sale of my real estate, in New Bedford, after the sums already appropriated out of it, & the payment of Legacies given in this will, be equally divided amongst the three legatees of the money arising from the Sale of my real estate in Rochester; and on the death of either of them, that it be disposed of in the same manner, as the legacies of the said money arising from the Sale of the said real estate in Rochester. –

   Item. I do hereby constitute & appoint my wife, Elisabeth Sprague, Alden Spooner of New Bedford in the County of Bristol Esqr. & Seth Spooner of the said New Bedford Esqr. joint Executors of this my last will & testament; and I do hereby revoke all wills heretofore made by me, and establish this as my last will & testament.—In testimony of which, I do hereunto Set my hand & Seal, the day & date above mentioned—noting at the same time, that the words–“of my widow” in the second page fourteenth line from the top, were interlined before the signing and Sealing hereof

Signed Sealed Pronounced and de-

clared by the said Nathl. Sprague Esqr.                                                                            Nathaniel Sprague                          (seal)

as his last will & testament ye day

above mentioned, in presence of us

whose names are hereunto subscribed

                Jonathan Moore

                James Perry

                Mary Perry

 

To the Honble Joshua Thomas Esqr. Judge of Probate of wills &c. for the County of Plymouth.—It being inconvenient to me, to execute the duty of one of the Executors to this last will & testament of my late husband, Nathaniel Sprague Esqr. of Rochester deceased, I hereby signify & declare to your Honr. my refusal of that appointment & trust

Rochester Feb. 25th. 1797                                                                                                  Elisabeth Sprague

 

Presented for probate on 20 Jan. 1797 by Alden Spooner and Seth Spooner Esqrs. two of the Executors therein named, and proved by Jonathan Moore and James Perry, two of the witnesses. Letters Testamentary were granted to Alden Spooner and Seth Spooner (Elisabeth Sprague, the other Executor in said will named having refused the said Trust), the before named Executors.

 

Abraham Holmes Esqr., Elisha Ruggles Esqr., and Enoch Cundell, yeoman, all of Rochester, were appointed to appraise the estate of Nathl. Sprague, late of Rochester, Esqr., on 20 Jan. 1797, [presumably only the real estate in Plymouth County.] The Inventory of Nathaniel Sprague, late of Rochester, Esqr., dated 1 Feb. 1797, totaled $4935.13, including his homestead valued at $3000, swamp land adjoining Capt. Lemuel Clark at $150, and several other smaller pieces of land and cedar swamp, but no land in New Bedford was listed. Alden Spooner, Esqr., one of the Executors, gave his oath to the inventory on 28 Sept. 1797.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 36, pp. 43-47, 235-237, from FHL microfilm #0550719.

 

 

Will of Noah Sprague of Rochester, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1773) *

In the Name of God Amen. The Twentieth Day of July 1773 I Noah Sprague of Rochester in the County of Plymouth Esqr. being in an Advanced Age but of a Sound & disposeing Mind & Memory and knowing it is Appointed for all men to Dye Do make & ordain this my Last Will and Testament Recomending my Soul to God that gave it & my Body to the Earth to be Buried in decent Christian Burial at the Discression of my Executor – And as to such Worldly Estate wherewith it hath Pleased God to Bless me with I give & dispose of the Same in the Following manner & form –

Imprimis  My Will is that my Just Debts Funeral Charges & the Settlement of my Estate be first paid out of my Moneys.

Item  My Will is that my beloved Wife Sarah Sprague be Indowed in my Estate as the Law directs were it left Intestate & Furthermore I give her my Great Bible Looking-Glass Gold Buttons & two Silver Spoons.

Item  My Will is that if my Son Alden Sprague ever returns Home (who hath been gone more than Twenty Years Since we have had any Inteligence from him) my Executor shall pay him the Principle & Interest of Twenty Six Pounds Lawfull Money from the Date of the Deed I give to one Joseph Clark by order of the General Court. This being Security to the Sd. Alden for the Payment of Sd. Sum & in case as afored. I Give & bequeath to my Sd. Son Alden Forty Shillings to be paid him by my Executor out of my Moneys & the Twenty Six Pounds aforsd. & Intrest to be paid him when Returnd Home as I Shall hereafter order

Item  I hereby Give and Bequeath to my Son Samuel Sprague his Heirs & Assigns all my Uper Farm (so called) that is contained in Experience Holmes’s Deed to me & my Right in the Minestree Farm so Called where the Revd. Mr. Thomas West lives in Dartmouth he Sd Samuel Clearing the Same from all Arrearages Contracted by me. Also one half my Salt Meadow at Charles Neck so Called. And my share of Land in Rochester Propriety being William Pebody’s Share at first Viz the Granted Land to Said Share not heretofore laid out or disposed off And all the Lands & Priveledges belonging to Sd. Share Forward of the Thirty Two Acre Grant & my Two Volms. of Shaws Justice & my Silver hilted Sword & a Silver Spoon

Item  My Will is & I hereby Give & Bequeath to my Grand Sons Namly Peleg Sprague Alden Sprague Paul Sprague & Nathaniel Sprague Sons of my Son Noah Sprague Deceased their Heirs & Assigns in Equal Partnership my Homsted Farm Adjoyning together with the Appurtinances & half my Salt Meadow at Charles Neck so Called & in case either of them Decease without Lawfull Issue their Rights Shall decend to the Surviveing Breathern Also my wearing Apparel & my Husbandry Tooles & Tackling in equal Partnership & in Particular to Said Peleg my writing Desk to Sd. Alden my French Gun to Sd. Paul my Long Gun & to Sd. Nathll. A Yearling Heifer & also I Give to my Grand Daughter Hannah Sprague their Sister a Silver Spoon

My Will is & I hereby Give & Bequeath to my Son John Sprague his Heirs And Assigns Thirty Pounds Money out of my [page cut off] & also my Peice of Cedar Swamp I bought of Daniel Hunt Linging in Dartmouth & one Silver Spoon

Item my Will is & I hereby Give & bequeath to my Two Daughters Alathea Spooner & Elizabeth Pitchers all my Indoor Moveables not other wise Disposed off Dowry & Securities for Money Exepted also) Equaly Between them with this Saving that Elizabeth take the High Case of Drawers in the Great Chamber before Division & ten Pounds Each to be Paid them out of my Securities for Money One Year after my Decease

Item My Will is & I hereby Give & bequeath to my Daughter in Law Mercy Sprague One Cow

Item I Give & Bequeath to my Sons Samuel & John & my Four Grandsons abovesd. all my Estate Real Personel or Mixt not herein before Disposed off the Sd. Four Grandsons to have one Third part equaly between them they Respectively with the Said Samuel & John Paying what is Above Assigned to my Sd. Son Alden upon his Returning Home out of the Same my Books Excpted & divided among my Surviveing Children

Fininal I hereby Constitute & Apoint my son Samuel Sprague Sole Executor of this my last Will & Testament Avouch this & no other to be so

In Witness whereof I have hereunto Sett my Hand & Seal the Day & Year first above Written

Signed Seald. Publishd. & Declared

by the Sd. Noah Sprague as                                                                                               Noah Sprague                   (seal)

his Last Will & Testament

In the Presence of us Witnesses

Thomas Whitredge

Melatiah White

Seth Blackwell

 

Presented for probate on 4 Oct. 1773 by Samuel Sprague of Rochester Esqr the Executor therein named, and proved by Thomas Whitredg and Seth Blackwell, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Samuel Sprague, the Executor.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 21, p. 568-570, from FHL microfilm #0550712.

 

 

Will of Samuel Sprague of Duxbury, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1757) *

                                In the Name of God Amen.

October the 2d. Anno Domini 1757. I Samuel Sprague of Duxboro’ in the county of Plymouth in the province of the Massa.Bay in NewEngd. husbandman knowing that it is appointed for all men once to die do make & ordain this my last will & Testament. That is to say, I give unto my wife Bethiah Sprague a third of my farm during her natural life & one third of my moveable estate & what money she has in her own keeping. Item. I give unto my two sons Samll. Sprague & Phinehas Sprague my farm which I now live on in Duxborough to them their heirs & assigns forever. Item. I give to my daughter Sarah Alden one third of my moveable Estate. –

Item. I give unto my daughter Bethiah Sprague the other third of my moveables & to her four children. Also I make & ordain my two sons Samuel Sprague & Phinehas my Executors to this my will.

Signed Sealed & declared to be his last                                                                          Samll. Sprague                  (seal)

will & Testament in Prescence of

James Sprague, James Sprague 3rd. Sarah Sprague. ~

 

February 28. 1764. These sen lines to let Yr. honr. know that I cant well attend to be Executor upon my fathers last will & testamt.

                                                                                                                                                Phinehas Sprague.

 

Presented for probate on 2 June 1764 by Samll. Sprague, the Execr. therein named, the other Excr. viz Phinehas Sprague renouncing the Executorship, and proved by James Sprague and James Sprague 3rd, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Samll. Sprague, the Executor.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Samuel Sprague, late of Duxborough, was appraised on 5 Apr. 1764 by Jonathan Peterson, Abner Weston, and Benjamin Snow, and totaled £397.8.8, including his homestead farm valued at £397.8.8, including his homestead farm valued at £306.13.4. The Executor gave his oath to the inventory on 24 Apr. 1764.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 19, p. 85-86, from FHL microfilm #0550711.

 

 

Will of Seth Sprague of Duxbury, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1847) *

                In the name of God, Amen, I, Seth Sprague of Duxbury, in the County of Plymouth, and in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, being old and infirm in body, but of sound mind, blessed be God for the same, I do make and ordain this my last will and testament and hereby revoke and make null and void all former wills and testaments, and first I give my soul and body to be deposited in my family tomb nigh the Methodist meeting house in Duxbury. And I hereby order and direct that my Executor hereafter mentioned cause to be erected around said tomb an iron railing, and a tomb stone to be placed in such a situation as they may think proper, on which shall be engraven my age and the age of my wife, and the time of our decease. As touching the earthly property which God has given me, I give and bequeath unto the children of my deceased daughter Deborah, as follows: To Selina Sampson, Catharine Ford, Alexander Wadsworth, and Miranda Drew – ten dollars to each one, and to Deborah Wadsworth I give five hundred dollars. I give and bequeath unto the children of my departed son William – ten dollars to each one. I give and bequeath unto the children of my deceased daughter Ruth ten dollars to each one. I give and bequeath unto the children of my deceased daughter Lucy, ten dollars to each one. I give and bequeath unto the children of my deceased daughter Judith ten dollars to each one. I give and bequeath unto the children of my deceased daughter Marcy, ten dollars to each one. I hereby give and bequeath unto my son Phineas, one hundred dollars, I hereby give to my son Peleg one hundred dollars. I hereby give and bequeath to my daughter Caroline fifteen hundred dollars. I hereby give and bequeath unto my daughter Wealthy Fifteen hundred dollars. I hereby give and bequeath unto my daughter Sarah fifteen hundred dollars. I hereby give and bequeath unto my daughter Hannah fifteen hundred dollars. I hereby give and bequeath unto my daughter Nancy fifteen hundred dollars. I hereby give and bequeath unto my adopted daughter Sophia Sprague fifteen hundred dollars. I hereby give and bequeath unto my son Seth, my homestead farm. All my beds, bedding, and household furniture, I give and bequeath unto my daughters that may be living at the time of my decease, including my adopted daughter Sophia Sprague in equal Shares. All the residue or remainder of my estate, real and personal, not herein or otherwise disposed of, I give and bequeath unto my son Seth. And I hereby appoint my son Seth, and my son-in-law William H. Sampson joint executors to this my last will and testament. And whereas I now hold several notes of hand against against my sons Phineas, and Seth, my will is, that if any of them remain unpaid at my decease, that the same be appraised as a part of my estate, collected and distributed in paying the legacies directed in this my last will and testament. And I do hereby order and direct that the several sums of money mentioned in this my last will and testament be paid by my Executors to the several persons mentioned within one year after my decease. And I hereby declare this to be my last last will and testament. In witness whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and seal this twenty fourth day of February in the year of our Lod one thousand eight hundred and forty seven. Signed, sealed, published and declared by the said Seth Sprague to be his last will and testament in presence of us the subscribers, who in his presence at his request and in the presence of each other have here unto set our names as witnesses.

                Joshua W. Hathaway

                Saml. Knowles Jr.                                                                                                Seth Sprague                                     (seal)

                Silvanus Sampson Jr.

 

I decline the trust of Executor of the within will.

                                                                                Wm H. Sampson.

 

Presented for probate on the last Tuesday of Aug. 1847 by Seth Sprague, one of the Executors therein named, and proved by Joshua W. Hathaway and Samuel Knowles Jr., two of the witnesses whose names are subscribed thereto. Letters Testamentary were granted to Seth Sprague, one of the executors therein named.

 

Seth Sprague, of Duxbury, was appointed as Executor of the Estate of Seth Sprague, late of Duxbury, on 31 Aug. 1847, with William H. Sampson and Charles Soule, both of Duxbury, as sureties.

No inventory or accounting of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 89, p. 364-367, from FHL microfilm #0555639, and Vol. 1G, p. 472.

 

 

Will of Uriah Sprague of Duxbury, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1831) *

  In the name of God Amen—I Uriah Sprague of Duxbury in the County of Plymouth and Commonwealth of Massachusetts, do hereby make and ordain the following to be my last Will and Testament – that is to say –

First. I give and bequeath to my son Eden Sprague (if living, or if not then in that case to his lawful children) the sum of fifty cents to be divided equally.

Also I give and bequeath to my daughter Alathea Sprague the sum of fifty cents.

Also – I give and bequeath to my daughter Lurana Freeman, the wife of Weston Freeman the sum of fifty cents.

Also – I give and bequeath to the children of my late daughter Betsey Smith, and the former wife of Jacob Smith the sum of fifty cents to be divided equally between them.

Also – I give and bequeath to my daughter Lydia Sprague, who has always lived with me and taken prudent care of myself and property, all the residue of my estate both Real and personal, which I may leave at my decease, after the payment of my just Debts and the Legacies aforesaid

In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and Seal this twenty fourth day of September, in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and thirty one.

                                                                                                                                                Uriah Sprague                                  (seal)

Signed, sealed and declared by the said Uriah Sprague to be his last Will and Testament in presence of us, who in his presence and of each other, have subscribed our names as Witnesses

                                                                                                                                                Geo. P. Richardson

                                                                                                                                                Jacob Smith

                                                                                                                                                Martin Sampson

 

Presented for probate on the second Monday of April 1842 by Lydia Sprague, a Devisee therein named, and proved by George P. Richardson and Martin Sampson, two of the Witnesses thereto subscribed.

 

Lydia Sprague, of Duxbury, was granted Administration with the Will annexed of the estate of Uriah Sprague, late of Duxbury, there being no person named in the said Will as Executor, on 11 Apr. 1842, with Weston Freeman and Joshua S. Freeman, both of Duxbury, as sureties.

George P. Richardson, Martin Sampson and Charles Soule, all of Duxbury, were appointed to appraise the estate of Uriah Sprague, late of Duxbury, on 11 Apr. 1842.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Uriah Sprague, late of Duxbury, was appraised on 14 May 1842, his real estate valued at $350, and his personal estate valued at $32.17. Lydia Sprague, the Administrator with the Will annexed, gave her oath to the inventory on the third Monday of May 1842.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 84, pp. 203-204, 225, from FHL microfilm #0555267, and Vol. 10A, p. 519.

 

 

Will of Ebenezer Sprout of Middleborough, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1726) *

In ye Name of God Amen ye eighth day of September in ye year of our Lord one thousand Seven Hundred Twenty & Six: Ebenezer Sprout of middleborough in ye County of Plymouth in New England Gentleman being Sick & weak in Body but of Perfect mind & memory God be Praised, I being Sensible of my mortality & that it is appointed for all men to dye doe make & ordain this my Last Will & Testament, that is to Say first & Principally I give & Recomend my Soul into ye hands of God that gave it & my Body to ye Earth to be decently buried at ye discretion of my Executor hereafter named & Executrix; and as touching Such worldly Estate as it has Pleased God to bless me with in this Life I give & dispose of in manner & form following that is to Say first I will that all my debts & funerall Charges be Paid & discharged. Item: I give to my Eldest Son Ebenezer Sprout my Homestead that is to Say my Housing in middleborough where I now dwell with all my Land adjoyning. Item I give to my Son James Sprout all my Land which I bought of Seth Howland with all my Land lying in ye South Purchase in middleborough, my Will is that my two Sons Expressed by name Do Enter into Possess & Injoy their Lands as is above Expressed at ye age of one & twenty but neither of them to make any Sale of any of their Land as above sd Till they Each of them Come to ye age of thirty years Without ye Consent of my Executor & Executrix. my Will is that if Either of my Sons as abovesd dye without Issue then His Brother have & Injoy all His Lands as is above Expressed. Item, I give to my three Daughters namely Thankfull Bennett, Abigail Sprout & Mary Sprout Each of them Sixty Pounds, Thankfull to Receive Hers at my decease & abigail & mary to Receive theirs at marriage or at ye age of Eighteen. Item: I give all ye Rest of my Estate both Reall & Personall to my Well beloved Wife Experience Sprout Shee to Have Possess & Injoy ye whole term of Her naturall Life if She Remain my widdow & at Her Decease or marriage to be Equally divided amongst all my Children; and I doe by This my will declare that my Sons have their Lands as abovesd after they Come to ye age of thirty years free & Clear to them & their Heirs & assignes forever and I doe by this my Last Will & Testament Constitute & appoint my Beloved Brother James Sprout & my Loving Wife Experience Sprout Sole Executor & Executrix to this my Last will & Testament, and I doe by these Presents disanull & make void all other my former wills whatsoever & Confirming this to be my Last Will & Testament; In wittness hereof I have hereunto Sett my hand & Seal ye day & year above written.

Signed Sealed Published & Declared

In ye Presence of us wittnesses

Jonathan Fuller                                                                                                                    The mark of Ebenezer

Ebenezer Richmond                                                                                                           Ebenzer  Sprrout

John Bennett                                                                                                                                                        Sprout

 

November ye 7: 1726  The within named Jonathan Fuller Ebenezer Richmond & John Bennett all of middleborough in ye County aforesd made oath that they Saw Ebenezer Sprout late of middleborough aforesd deceased Sign Seal & heard him declare ye within written Instrument to be His Last Will & Testament & that at ye same time they Sett to their Hands as wittnesses & that according to ye best of their observation He then was of a Sound & disposing mind & memory

                                                                                                                                Before Isaac Winslow Judge of Probate

 

Letters of Administration on the estate of Ebenezer Sprout, late of Middleborough, were granted on 21 Nov. 1726 to James Sprout, his brother, and Experience Sprout, relict widow of the deceased.

No inventory was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth Co. Probate Vol. 5, p. 274-275, from FHL microfilm #0550511.

 

 

Will of Ebenezer Sprout of Middleborough, Plymouth County, Massachusetts Bay (1785) *

Know all men by these presents that I, Ebenezer Sprout of the town of Middleborough in the County of Plymouth in the Commonwealth of the Massachusetts being weak of body, yet of a sound & disposing memory and understanding blessed be God for the same, yet knowing the mortality of my body and that it is appointed for all men once to die Do make & ordain this my Last will & testament to be firm and inviolable forever

Imprimis – I Give and bequeath to my well beloved wife Bathsheba the use & improvement of one third part of all my Lands meadows and Buildings, during her natural Life–and further I Give & bequeath to her my said wife one half of all my Indoor moveables as her own property, and the use and improvement of the other half so Long as she shall Continue to dwell in my now dwelling House ~

Item – I Give and bequeath to my Son Ebenezer Sprout one half of my Land & House where Aaron Carey now Liveth in the twelve mens purchase in said Middleborough, to him, his Heirs and assigns forever ~

Item – I Give and bequeath to my Son Earl Sprout the other half of my Land & House where said Aaron Carey Liveth, to him his Heirs & assigns forever –

Item – I Give and bequeath to my Son Thomas Sprout all my Homestead Lands Lying Southward of Halifax road, with all the buildings thereon (Excepting one fourth part of my dwelling House & Excepting the whole of my Hatters Shop) to him his Heirs and assigns forever and further I Give & bequeath to him my said Son Thomas one half of my wood Lot near Dr Thomas Sturtevants, and also one half of my meadow called Lower meadow to him his Heirs & assigns forever ~

Item – I Give & bequeath to my son James Sprout all my Land Lying near the meeting House on the north Side of Halifax Road and also one fourth part of my Dwelling House, and also the whole of my Hatters Shop, and also one half of my meadow called Lower meadow, to him, his Heirs and assigns forever ~

Item – I give and bequeath to my son Samuel Sprout all my parcell of Land Lying near to John Tinkham junrs and also the other half of my wood Lot near Dr Sturtevants, and also my parcell of meadow called winnetuxet meadow, to him his Heirs and assigns forever ~

Item – I Give and bequeath to my Daughter Mary the wife of William Torrey besides what I have already Given her, twelve pounds to be paid out of my out door moveables in Six months after my decease ~

Item – I Give & bequeath to my Daughter Bathsheba the wife of Cyrus Keith Thirteen pounds, Six Shillings and Eight (besides what I have already Given her) to be paid by my Son Thomas Sprout in Six months after my decease ~

Item – I Give & bequeath to my five Sons vizt– Ebenezer Sprout–Thomas Sprout–James Sprout – Samuel Sprout & Earl Sprout all my out door moveables in equal partnership between them they paying all my just debts and funeral Charges & the abovesaid twelve pounds to my Daughter Mary in equal partnership between them, and if my out door moveables do not amount to enough to pay my Debts Charges & Legacies aforesaid, then my will is that my aforesaid Son James Sprout should pay the Remainder

Item – I Give & bequeath to my said Son James Sprout all my parcell of Cedar Swamp Lying in the Swamp called Woods Cedar Swamp to him his Heirs and assigns forever ~

Item – I Give and bequeath to my four following named Sons – vizt Thomas Sprout James Sprout– Samuel Sprout & Earl Sprout, that half of my Indoor moveables that I have Given my wife the improvement of, to be equally divided among them after my said wife hath done with the improvement of them –

Item – my will is & hereby order my aforesaid Son James Sprout to pay a Legacy of Six pounds to my Daughter Bathsheba aforesaid in Six months after my decease – and further my will is that my said Son James Sprout should Remove said Hatters Shop off the Land where it now standeth, whensoever my Son Thomas shall Request it, the Land whereon it standeth belonging to my said Son Thomas

Item – My will is and I hereby Constitute and appoint my aforesaid Son Thomas Sprout to be Sole Executor of this my Last will & testament, and I the said Ebenezer Sprout hereby Revoke & disannul all other and former wills by me made and Signed, Ratifying and Confirming this and no other as my Last will and testament – thus hoping that this my Last will and testament will be kept & performed according to the true intent and meaning thereof – I Commit my Soul into the hands of God who Gave it, and my body to the Dust to a decent burial – In witness whereof I the said Ebenezer Sprout have hereunto Set my hand & Seal this fourth day of August One thousand Seven Hundred Eighty & five

Signed, Sealed, pronounced & declared

by the said Ebenezer Sprout as his Last                                                                          Ebenr. Sprout                                    (seal)

will & testament in presence of us

        Ziba Eaton

        Ruth Eaton

        Jacob Bennet

 

Presented for probate on 6 March 1786 by Thomas Sprout, the Executor therein named, and proved by Ziba Eaton and Jacob Bennet, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Thomas Sprout, the before named Executor.

 

Jacob Bennet, yeoman, Jonah Washburn Gentm, and Thomas Foster, blacksmith, all of Middlebo, were appointed to appraise the estate of Ebenezer Sprout, late of Middlebo. Esqr, on 6 March 1786. The Inventory of the Estate of Colo. Ebenezer Sprout, late of Middlebo, dated 6 March 1786, totaled £1267.5.8, including his real estate valued at £1094. Thomas Sprout, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 6 Mar. 1786.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 29, p. 474-478, from FHL microfilm #0550715.

 

 

Will of Robert Sprout of Middleborough, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1711) *

In The Name of God Amen. I Robert Sprout Late of Scittuate but at this time being Confined by Bodily Infirmity to Abide at my house in Middlebury in the Massachusetts Bay In New England being of Sound memory and Disposing minde do hereby make this my Last Will and Testament Revoaking and Anulling any former Will or Wills heretofore by me made. Resigning my Soul to God in Christ my Bodey to the Earthly decent burial. as to my worldly Estate I Dispose of it as followeth. Imprimis To my Daughter Marcy Oldham I give one of my South purchase Lotts in Middlebury Containing as I remember about forty five acres to her & her heirs & Assignes for Ever. To my Daughter Anna Richmond I Give my other South purchase Lott in Middlebury Containing as the former to her & her heirs & Assignes for Ever. To my Daughter Hannah Cane I Give thirty acres of Land In Middlebury which Ly’s near the place wheir James Bill Lived to her & her Assignes for Ever. To my Daughters Elisabeth Sprout & Mary Sprout I give the Dwelling house In Middlebury where I now Live, and the Lands pertaining to this Dwelling or Lott esteemed about Six score acres more or Less with the meadows belonging to this Lott namely that at Beryting Brook the other meadow Ly’s on the Soth Side of the Elddy Pond (So Called) Ly’s yet in Comon between Mr Holloway & Ebenezer Richmond & my self. To them Sd Elizabeth Sprout & Mary Sprout Equally to be Divided between them and to their heirs and assignes for Ever. I give a feather Bed to my Daughter Elisabeth Sprout. for my wifes maintainance dureing her Life I order that fiveteen pounds be Annually paid to that person or persons who keep her & provide for her to be paid by those of my Childrean that possesses my farm at Scittuate—which farm at Scittuate I give to my two Sons James Sprout & Ebenezer Sprout to them their heirs & Assignes for Ever to be Equally Divided between them. Only four Rod from James Sprout’s back Door to run to the Brooke upon East South East poynt half a point Southerly and then to Come in again to the Center Line. my two Sons James & Ebenezer Sprout are to pay yearly for my Support from the Day of the date of this my Will the Sum of forty pounds to that Child which I Live with and provides for me and Looks after me which they are to pay & perform as the Condition of my giveing them my farm at Scittuate. All my undivided Lands In Middlebury and Twenty five acres on the Neck & purchase Right I give to my Son James Sprout and to his heirs & Assignes for Ever. my moveables I give to my Wife to be hers & at her Dispose. I make my two Sons James Sprout & Ebenezer Sprout Executors to this my Last Will & Testament they to pay all Just Debts In Wittness hereof I have hereto Set my hand and Seale this twenty third Day of November Anno Domini one thousand Seven hundread & Eleven. Interlined between Line 35 & 36 to that Child which I Live with & provides for me and Looks after me before Sealing.

Signed Sealed & Declared by                                                                                                           his

Robert Sprout to be his Last Will                                                                                      Robert    R    Sprout             (seal)

& Testament In presence of Us.                                                                                                   marke

           his

John    E   Randall

         marke

Israel Thrasher

James Bell

 

Probated on 11 Dec. 1712, and proved by John Randall and James Bell.

 

The inventory of Robert Sprout, deceased, not dated, appraised by Ebenezer Richmond and Simon Holloway, totaled £24.5, and was sworn to by James Sprout, the Executor, on 5 Mar. 1712/13.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 3, p. 222-224, from FHL microfilm #0550509.

 

 

Will of Robert Sprout of Middleborough, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1797) *

        In the name of God Amen. This thirtieth day of May in ye year of our Lord one thousand, seven hundred & ninety seven, I Robert Sprout of Middleborough in the county of Plymouth & Comwealth of Massachusetts Gentleman, being advanced in age & under infirmities of body, but of a disposing mind & memory, blessed be God for the same, and calling to mind that it is appointed for all men once to die, do make & ordain this my last will & testament as follows, that is to say, principally & first of all, I give & recommend my soul to the hands of God, through the merits of the great redeemer, and my body I recommend to the earth to a decent burial in a christian manner, not doubting that at the general resurrection of all things, I shall recieve the same again by the mighty power of God, and touching my worldly estate I dispose of ye same as follows, notwithstanding that there was a contract made between me & my present wife before our marriage, that ye articles which she brought with her to my house soon after our marriage should belong to her after my decease, and be at her own disposal, and as a part thereof are now worn out and destroyed & gone, it appears to me to be my duty, & I do hereby give her all the wearing apparell & houshold furniture which my said wife brought with her, and all her wearing apparell & bed cloaths & other articles which she hath made during the time she hath lived with me. Also all the notes of hand or dues by note to us or to her, which was due to her at the time when I married her, or that originated from the same, however the securities now stand or may stand at my decease, free and clear from any expence or incumbrance. I also give her one of my best cows & a calf, and if there is not a calf that she have a year old. I also give her all ye family provisions which we have laid up for our support which shall be on hand at the time of my decease.—  I Give & bequeath to my son Zebedee Sprout, all my other estate of all kinds, which is not herein before disposed of, yet providing that all my just debts, and funeral charges shall be paid out of the said Estate herein given to my said son, notwithstanding what is herein written before

        And my will is, and I hereby constitute & appoint my beloved wife Mercy Sprout to be Executrix to this my last will & testament. Therefore hoping that this my last will & testament will be carefully kept & performed according to the true intent and meaning thereof, I hereto set my hand & seal the day of the date before mentioned –

Signed, Sealed and declared by the sd                                                                             Robert Sprout   (seal)

Robert to be his last will & testament

in presence of us

                Daniel Dunham

                Mary Smith

                Nehemiah Bennet

 

Presented for probate on 5 Feb. 1798 by Mercy Sprout, the Executrix therein named, and proved by Mary Smith & Nehemiah Bennet Esqr., two of the witnesses.

 

John Nelson, Peter Hoar, and Nemiah Bennet, all of Middleborough, were appointed to appraise the estate of Robert Sprout, late of Middleborough, Gentleman, on 5 Feb. 1798. The Inventory of the estate of Robert Sprout, late of Middleborough, dated 9 Feb. 1798, totaled only $155.76, with no real estate listed. Mercy Sprout, the Executrix, gave her oath to the inventory on 1 June 1798.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 36, pp. 293-294, 397-398, from FHL microfilm #0550719.

 

 

Will of Alexander Standish of Duxbury, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1702) *

February ye one & twentyeth in ye year one thousand seven hundred & two. Being in perfect memory & understanding I Declare this to be my last Will and Testament:

Imprs I Bequeath my Body to ye Dust & my soul to god that gave it

It 2: That my dead body have Decent Burial.

It 3: my Will is That my Funeral charges be paid before my legacies

It 4ly I Bequeath to my dear and Loving wife All ye Estate she brought with her that is Remaining at my death And a third part of my movable Estate. It 5ly I Give to my wife out of my Farm ye keeping of three Cows and twelve sheep to be Wintered & pastured while She Remains a Widdow And also ye use of ye best Roome or of any Roome Either above or below vizt oven Celler Leantoo or Leanto of or shedd During her Widdowhood And her wood Sufficient for her buring brought to ye doore.

It 6 My Will is That my Eldest son & proper heir Miles Standish provide Corne Sufficient for her of all sorts Vizt Indian Rie wheat & malt & liberty to sow a peck of Flax seed.

7 I Give to my Eldest Son Miles Standish my Dwelling house in Duxboroh vizt Barne orchard or orchards & all my upland & meadow in Duxborough from a Walnut Stump with Stones upon it at a place called Sandey point And from thence to a Stone set in ye Ground against William Brewsters And from thence to a Stone set in ye Ground that was formerly ye land of Ebenezer Bartlet deceased, which is ye Range betwixt us. And from that stone to a heap of Stones at ye uper End of my pasture And upon a straight line to Mortons hole And by my Will Give him ye priviledge to make use of ye Teame with all ye Instruments of Husbandry vizt cart wheels chains plow Turnblill &c—. Also my will is That my two sons Thomas Standish & Ichabod Standish Shall have five acres of Good Land with fence to plant & sow when they are Grown up to manage it for themselves & for their mother And to have ye use of all the Instruments of Husbandry vizt cart wheels Turnbrill chains &c & manure to mend their land withall as they see Cause. Also I Give to my three Children Thomas Ichabod and Desire Standish Each of them a Bed and furniture.

Also I Give to my son Thomas Standish my short kerbine And I Give to Ichabod Standish my Musquet I Give to my son Thomas one Cow and five Sheep to Ichabod one Cow & five sheep to Desire one Cow and five sheep my Shill & Shilyards and Hitchell. Also by this my will I Give to my son Ebenezer Standish All ye land at ye heads of ye Lots for his Portion which he hath sold to Mr Robinson.

I also Give & bequeath to my two sons Thomas Standish & Ichabod Standish All my land butting upon Winnatuxet River next to Mr Tomsons land Equally to be divided between them both for quanty & quallity with ye meadow that was Granted by ye Court to my father at Satucket grand which was four acres more or less or proportionable to such a branch of upland.

I Give to my Daughter Lorah ye wife of Abraham Samson five shillings

I Give to my Daughter Lidia the wife of Isaac Samson five shillings

I Give to Mercy Samson ye wife of Caleb Samson five shillings

I Give to my Daughter Elizabeth Delano ye wife of Samuel Delano five shillings

I Give my Daughter Sarah Soul ye wife of Benjamin Soul five shillings.

Also my will is that my wife dispose of my wearing cloaths according to her own discretion to my two sons Thomas Standish and Ichabod Standish.

I do Give unto my son Thomas my Small boared Gun & I Give to my son Ichabod my shirt Buttons. further more I Give to my son Miles my Cannoo. Also my will is that If that wood upon ye land that I have Reserved when Ebenezer my son sold ye land to Mr Robinson be not sold till after my death my will is that ye money that it is sold for be divided betweene my sons Thomas Ichabod & desire & my son Miles to have forty shillings out of it Also my will is That whatsoever Estate Either in New England or in old which I have Committed into ye hands of Robert Orchard to Receive in England by letters of Attorney from under my hand Seal. And John Rogers of Boston in New England by a Letter of Attorney from under my hand & Seal Be Reserved after my Decease my will is that my wife have her third part & ye Remainder to be divided Equally betweene Thomas Standish Ichabod Standish & Desire Standish. I do by my will also Constitute & appoint my Son Miles Standish to be sole Executor of this my last Will & Testament And desire my Brother David Alden to be ye overseer of it to give Counsel & Advice that may Conduce for peace. Thus taking my Leave of all my near & dear Relations my Christian Friends in church covenant & all my loving neighbours I bid you all farewell till we meet in Heaven to Enjoy ye presence of Jesus Christ savior & holy Angels to ye Enjoyment of Pleasures for Evermore

Signed and Sealed in ye presence of                                                                                Alexander Standish                         (seal)

these Witnesses

John Sprague                                                                        upon ye 5th day of July Ano Dom 1702

Samuel Bartlett                                                                    upon some further serious considerations

John Wadsworth                                                                  I do Add unto this my Will on this and

                                                                                                ye other side written these following particulars

Item I Give to my two sons vizt Thomas Standish & Ichabod Standish a yoak of oxen between them for their own to make use of them when they are capable.

Item I do Give my whole crop of corne now upon ye Ground of all sorts both English & Indian to my whole family for their use my son Miles Standish And his wife onely Excepted.

Item I Give to my two sons Thomas Standish & Ichabod Standish all my wearing cloaths that my wife sees them most sutable for.

Also my Will is that my Books be divided among my 3 sons Miles Standish Thomas Standish & Ichabod Standish & my daughter Desire Standish.

 

Plimouth July 29th 1702 Then ye above named John Sprague Samuel Bartlett & John Wadsworth ye witnesses above named appeared before William Bradford Esqr & made oath that they were present & saw & heard Mr Alexander Standish ye Testator above named sign Seal & declare ye above & before written Instrument to be his last Will & Testament & that to the best of their judgment he was of sound disposing mind & memory when he did ye same And that ye four paragraphs next above written were written in his presence & by his Express order & directions

                                                                                                Attest Saml Sprague Resister

 

Miles Standish, the Executor, was granted Letters of Administration on the Estate of Mr Alexander Standish, late of Duxborough on 10 Aug. 1702.

 

An Inventory of ye Estate of Mr Alexander Standish Deceased take this 23d Day of July 1702. by us whose names are under written.

[Not totaled, but his Houses & Lands lying in the Township of Duxbury were valued at £400, and his Lands lying the Township of Middleborough adjacent to the lands of Lieut Tomson deceased were valued at £200.]

                                                                                                                                John Soul

                                                                                                                                Samuel Bartlett

                                                                                                                                David Alden

Plimouth Ss August 10th 1702

Before William Bradford Esqr Judge &c: Then appeared Miles Standish of Duxborough Executor of ye last Will & Testament of Mr Alexander Standish Late of Duxborough aforesd Deceased and made oath that ye above & before written is a true Inventory of ye Goods Chattels Rights & Credits of ye sd Deceased so far as he yet knows And that if more shall Come to his knowledge it Shall be added.

                                                                                                Attest Saml. Sprague Register

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 1, p. 362-363.

 

 

Will of Desire Standish of Duxbury and Marshfield, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1723) *

Know all Men by these Presents that I Desire Standish late of Duxborough now of Marshfield in the County of Plymouth in New-England Widow of Mr. Alexander Standish late of Duxborough deceased, being at this present time in Heath and of Sound and disposing Memory & Understanding Blessed be God for it, Yet being Sensible of my own Mortality & being Minded to Settle my outward Estate which God hath Given me do make & ordain this to be my last Will & Testament to remain firm & inviolable forever: Item I Give & Bequeath unto my Eldest son William Sherman, all that is due to me from him, or that shall be due at the time of my Decease for my Dower or Third of the Rents or Improvement of ye farm which he now lives upon — Item I Give & Beqeuath unto my Son John Holmes one Cow —

Item I Give & Bequeath unto my five Sons Ebenezer Sherman Israel Holmes John Holmes Thomas Standish & Ichabod Standish all the Money & Bills of Credit which I shall have at ye time of my Decease to be equally Divided among them My funeral Charges being first Paid out of the Same—

Item I Give & Bequeath unto my three Daughters Hannah Ring Experience Standish & Desire Weston, and my Grand daughter Desire Wormwall all my Wearing Cloaths Woollen & Linnen & all my Sheets & all other of my Linnen to be equally divided among them four: Item I Give & Bequeath unto my Son Ebenezer Sherman my Coverlid belonging to my Bed—

Item I Give & Bequeath unto my five Sons Ebenezer Sherman Israel Holmes John Holmes Thomas Standish & Ichabod Standish, and my three daughters Hannah Ring Experience Standish & Desire Weston & my Grand daughter Desire Wormwal My Bed & all the rest of my Bedding and all other of my moveable Estate to be equally divided among them nine — And My Will is that my Son Israel Holmes shall be Executor of this my last Will & Testament: Thus hoping the Same will be kept & performed according to the true Intent & Meaning thereof, I Commit my Body to ye Dust & my Soul to God that gave it: In Witness whereof I have hereunto Set my hand & Seal this thirtieth Day of July One thousand Seven hundred twenty & three

Memorandm the Interline between the twelfth & thirteenth lines was Interlined before Signing & Sealing

Signed Sealed & Declared by ye above                                                                                                 her mark

named Desire Standish to be her last                                                                                               Desire     3   Standish   (Seal)

Will & Testament In ye Presence of us

Jacob Tomson

        her mark

Abigail  d  Tomson

Lydia Tomson

 

April the 27.1732 The Above named Lydia Tomson now Lydia Packard made Oath before Isaac Winslow Judge of Probate

May ye 17:1732 Abigail Tomson Above named made oath before Isaac Winslow Judge of Probate

Letters of Administration were granted to Israel Holmes, son of the deceased and Sole Executor, on 17 May 1732.

 

The inventory of the Estate of ye Widow Standish of Marshfield, lately Deceased, was taken by William Carver, John Dingley and Edward Arnold on 26 May 1732, and sworn to by Israel Holmes, the Executor, on 29 May 1732.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 6, pp. 177-178, 180, from FHL microfilm #0550512.

 

 

Will of Jonathan Standish of Middleborough, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1837) *

        Be it Remembered, that I, Jonathan Standish of Middleborough calling to mind the uncertainty of life, but being of sound and disposing mind and memory, make and publish my last Will and Testament as follows, viz.

        I give and devise to Joshua Eddy Esquire, my half of a dwelling-house in which my son Jonathan Standish now lives, and the land on which it stands, upon the Southerly side of the road and the other buildings connected therewith, with the privileges and appurtenances thereto belonging, to have and to hold for and during the life of my said son Jonathan and for his use and benefit, – And after the decease of the said Jonathan to be held by his son Simeon Standish to his own use and benefit forever. And the trust of said Eddy to cease at the decease of the said Jonathan.

 I give and bequeath to my daughter Irene Shearman fifty dollars.

I give and bequeath to my daughter, Mary Bradford, One hundred dollars.

I give and bequeath to my daughter, Fanny Bradford, One hundred dollars.

I give and bequeath to my daughter, Betsey D. Thomas, fifty dollars.

  I give and bequeath to my daughter Ann Standish, four hundred dollars. And I appoint my son Soranus Standish Trustee of the said Ann, to hold the said four hundred dollars for the use and benefit of the said Ann during her natural life.

                I give and bequeath to my son William S. Standish, one hundred dollars, and I appoint Joshua Eddy aforesaid Trustee of the said William to take and hold the said hundred dollars for the use and benefit of the said William during his natural life.

                I give and bequeath to my son Miles Standish five hundred dollars to be paid to him when he shall arrive to the age of twenty one years – And I appoint my son Soranus Guardian to the said Miles Standish – and I enjoin upon him the said Guardian to take the care, support and clothing of the said Miles during his Minority, and to give him a good common education – and to have the benefit of his services until he shall arive to full age. But should the said Miles not live to full age, the said five hundred dollars to be equally divided among my children and their representatives at the time when the said Miles would have arived to the age of twenty one years had he have lived.

                I give and devise to my son Soranus all the residue of my property, real and personal, rights and credits, Provided my said son Soranus shall convey in trust to Joshua Eddy aforesaid the other half of the dwelling house buildings and appurtenances where my son Jonathan now lives, for the use and benefit of the said Jonathan during the term of his natural life, and after his decease to be held by his son Simeon his heirs and assigns free from trust forever. Provided also my said son Soranus shall provide for and well support and maintain, in sickness and in health, my present wife, during her natural life: Also a good room in my dwelling-house for my said wife to live in by herself, if she shall so choose to live: and also three dollars annually in cash, if she desires it.

                And I order and direct that the abovementioned legacies in money shall be paid, one half thereof in one year, and the other half in two years next after my decease ~ excepting where it is otherwise above directed.

                And Lastly, I appoint my son Soranus Standish the Executor of this my Will.

                                                                                                                                                Jonathan Standish                           (seal)

        Signed, sealed and declared to be the Will of Jonathan Standish by him in our presence, who at his request and in his presence do hereto set our hands.

        Ezra Chace

        Daniel Atwood

        Wilkes Wood.

 

Presented for probate on 20 Feb. 1837 by Soranus Standish, the Executor therein named, and proved by Daniel Atwood, one of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters Testamentary were granted to Soranus Standish, the Executor therein named.

 

Soranus Standish, of Middleborough, was granted administration with the Will annexed of the estate of Jonathan Standish, late of Middleborough, on 20 Feb. 1837, with Peter H. Peirce and Albert Thomas, both of Middleborough, as sureties.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 79, p. 45-46, from FHL microfilm #0555265, and Vol. 1G, p. 297.

 

 

Will of Miles Standish of Duxbury, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1739) *

Know all Men by these, Preasants that I Miles Standish of Duxborough in the County of Plimouth in the Province of the Massachusetts Bay in New England, Husbandman, being Aged, and Weak of Body but of Perfect Minde and Memory, thanks be given to Almighty God therefor, Calling to minde the Mortallity of my Body and that it is Appointed for all Men once to Dye, do upon Serious Consideration make and Ordain these Preasants to be my last Will and Testament in Manner and form following to be and Remain firm and Inviolable forever—

        Imprimis, I recomend my soul in to the Hands of Almighty God the Father of Spirits who Gave it and my Body I Recomend to the Earth, to be Decently Interred in Christian Manner at the Discreation of my Executor & Executrix herein after named, in Hope of a Better Resurrection thrô my Lord & Saviour Jesus Christ Who is the Resurection and the Life, and thrô the Merritts, Death, and Passion of ye Lord Jesus Christ I shall Obtain Everlasting Life – And as Touching all such Worldly and Temporall Estate wherewith it hath pleased God to Bless me in this Life, I give, demise and Dispose Whereof, in the following Manner & form vizt

        First my Will is that all my Just Debts and Funerall Charges be payed, and Discharged in Convenient Time after my Decease ~

        Item. I give and bequeath unto my Son Miles Standish all my whole Farm of Land in Duxborough aforesd. whereon I now Dwell Containing about Six Score Acres, be it more or Less, with all the Houseing, Fenceing and Orchard thereon, and thereunto belonging with all and Singular the other Appurtenances thereunto belonging, together with all my Salt Meadow, and other Meadow Land Lyeing and being within the Township of Duxborough abovesd. with all the Fenceing and Appurtenances and Priveliges thereunto belonging to him his Heirs and assigns forever, Excepting that my Will is, and I do hereby give and bequeath to my Dear and Loveing Wife Experience the Improvement and Income of one Halfe of the Farm, Houseing ~ Fenceing, Orchard, Meadow and Meadow Land and Appurtenances abovementioned, and given to my Son Miles Standish, so Long as She shall Remain my Widow ~

        Item, my Will is that my sd Son Miles Standish shall procure for and deliver unto my sd Wife Experience at the House wherein I now dwell, all, or so much Firewood as she may need so long as she shall Remain and Continue to be my Widow

        Item. I give to my Son Miles Standish, my biggest pair of Iron Brand Doggs with all my Team Furniture

        Item. I give to my Daughter Sarah Weston the Wife of Abner Weston the Sum of Twenty Pounds

        Item, I give to my Daughter Patience Jenny the Wife of Caleb Jenny the Sum of Ten Pounds –

        Item I give to my Daughter Priscilla Standish the Sum of Ten Pounds

        Item, I give to my Daughter Penelope Standish the Sum of one Hundred Pounds

        Item, I give and bequeath to my sd Wife Experience and my Daughter Priscilla Standish, all the rest and Residue of my Moveable Estate that is not above in these Preasants Mentioned, nor Disposed off, to be Equally Divided between them —

        Item. my Will is that my two above named Daughters vizt. Priscilla Standish, and Penelope Standish shall have free Liberty each of them to Dwell in my now Dwelling House, so long as theay, or each of them shall Continue Unmarried ~

        Item. I do hereby Constitute, make and Ordain my abovesd Son Miles Standish, and my sd Wife Experience to be Executor and Executrix of this my last Will & Testament and I do hereby Utterly Disallow, Revoak and Disanull all, and every other and former Wills and Testaments by me in any ways before named, or made, Ratifieing this and Confirming this and, no other to be my last Will and Testament;  In Witness whereof I have hereunto Sett my Hand and Seal the Thirty first day of August in the Year of our Lord God one Thousand Seven Hundred and Thirty nine 1739

Signd Seald. Publishd, pronouncd                                                                                      Miles  X  Standish                           (seal)

& declared by Me sd Miles                                                                                                      his mark

Standish to be his last Will

and Testament in the Preasance

of us the Subscribers

John Wadsworth

William Brewster

Joseph Bartlett

 

Proved on 20 Sept. 1739 by John Wadsworth, Willm Brewster, and Joseph Bartlett, the witnesses.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Miles Standish, late of Duxbourô, Husbandman, was appraised by Edward Arnold, John Wadsworth, and Samuell Weston, not dated, but substantial, his farm with the Houseing, Fenceing and Orchards thereon valued at £2000.0. The appraisers gave their oath to the inventory on 5 Mar. 1739[/40], and Miles Washburn, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 13 Mar. 1739[/40].

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 8, pp. 107-109, 162-164, from FHL microfilm #0551531.

 

 

Will of Moses Standish of Halifax, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1769) *

                                                In the Name of GOD, Amen.

I Moses Standish in the county of Plymouth in New-England gentleman, being of a sound mind and memory, and being sensible of the uncertainty of my life, and desirous to set my house in order before I go hence, do make & ordain this to be my last will & testament; and first I return my soul to God who gave it whenever he shall please to call for it, And my body I recomend to the earth to be decently buried by my executor hereafter-mentioned, hoping for a glorious resurrection to life eternal through the merits of Christ my Redeemer. And as touching my temporal estate which God hath blessed me with in this life, I give, devise, and bequeath, and dispose off in the following-manner, viz. ~

Imprimis, I give and bequeath unto my welbeloved wife Rachel Standish the use and improvement of one half my dwelling-house wherein I now live the half to be the easterly end of said house, with the little room at the easterly end, and also all my homestead lands whereon I now dwell with the barn and orchard excepting three apple-trees, also my fresh-meadow lying upon Winnatuxet brook lying in Plimton, so long as she shall remain my widow. Also I give and bequeath unto my well beloved wife Rachel, a piece of cedar-swamp lying in Colchester-swamp in Plimton containing about three or four acres to her and her heirs & assigns forever.—  Also I give unto my welbeloved wife Rachel two cows & six sheep, and one swine if there so many of mine at my decease, to her & her heirs & assigns forever.~ Also I give unto my welbeloved wife Rachel the use & improvement of all my indoors moveables during her natural life excepting my wearing apparel & military armour. ~

Also I give and bequeath unto my son Moses Standish one lot of upland & swamp lying in Plimton, which I bought of Isaac & Jonathan Samson in the neck called Bee-tree-neck, and another lot of upland lying in the same neck which I bought of the widow Phœbe Norton, to him his natural life and after his decease to his son Ebenezer Standish, and to his heirs & assigns forever. ~

Also I give and bequeath to my son John Standish, the one half of my dwelling-house, to be the westerly end of said house, to come in possession of it at my decease, and all my homestead lands & buildings & orchard excepting three apple-trees and eight acres of the land to be measured out upon the north side of my homestead to be of an equal breadth from the road to the other side, to come in possession of it after my welbeloved wife hath done with it, to him his heirs & assigns forever.—

Also I give and bequeath unto my two sons Moses Standish & John Standish a piece of fresh-meadow lying in Plimton upon Winnatuxet brook, to be equaly divided betwixt them after my welbeloved wife has done with it, to them, and their heirs and assigns forever. ~

Also I give and bequeath unto my four daughters Rachel, Zerviah, Rebeccah, & Sarah eight acres of my homestead Land to be measured off upon the north side, and to be of an equal breadth from the road to the other side to be equaly divided betwixt them after my welbeloved wife hath done with it, to them and their heirs & assigns forever. — Also I give and bequeath unto my four daughters Rachel, Zerviah, Rebeccah & Sarah all my indoors moveables to be equally divided betwixt them after my wife’s decease, excepting my wearing apparel & military armour & books, to them their heirs & assigns forever.– Also I give and bequeath unto my two sons & four daughters all the books to be equally divided betwixt them. ~ after my wife’s decease. ~

Also I give and bequeath unto my son John Standish all my cattle, horses, sheep and swine, which I shall have at my decease, excepting what is already given to my welbeloved wife, to him his heirs and assigns forever.—

Also I give unto my two sons Moses & John Standish all my wearing-apparel and my military armour, and all the outdoors moveables not yet disposed off to be equally divided between them at my decease, and to them their heirs & assigns forever.

Also I give and bequeath unto my son Moses Standish the use & improvement of three apple-trees in my orchard, during his natural life, he to make his choice of said trees within one month after my decease. –

Also I give and bequeath to my welbeloved wife a debt due to me from Samuel Robins if it be not recovered before my decease, to her & her heirs & assigns forever.—

Also I give and bequeath unto my son John Standish all the just debts that shall be due to me at my decease excepting the debt due from Robins, and it is my will also that my son John Standish shall pay all my just debts & funeral charges out of what I have given to him in this will. –

Lastly, I do appoint my son John Standish of Hallifax in the county of Plymouth yeoman, to be my sole executor of this my Last will & testament making void all others as my last will & testament.

In witness whereof I the said Moses Standish have hereunto set my hand and seal this twentyeighth day of February anno Domini 1769. ~

Signed, sealed & declared by the said Moses Standish,

to be his last will & testament in presence of,                                                               Moses Standish                (seal)

                                                Noah Cushing

                                                Joseph Waterman

                                                James Churchell

 

The Last will & testament of Moses Standish Late of Hallifax was presented for probate on 15 May 1769 by John Standish, the Executor therein named, and proved by Noah Cushing, Joseph Waterman and James Churchel, the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to John Standish, the Executor.

 

The Inventory of the estate of Moses Standish of Hallifax, was appraised on 29 June 1769 by Moses Inglee, Noah Cushing, and Ephraim Soule, and totaled £335.9.5, including his real estate valued at £229.6.8. John Standish, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 28 Nov. 1769.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 20, pp. 388-389, 289, from FHL microfilm #0550711.

 

 

Will of Zackariah Standish of Plympton, Plymouth County, Massachusetts Bay (1780) *

In the name of God Amen—I Zackariah Standish of Plymton in the county of Plymouth in New England, yeoman, being infirm in body but of a sound and disposing mind and memory, & being Sensible of the uncertainty of my Life, and desirous to set my house in order before I Go hence do make and declare this to be my Last will and Testament, and first I Return my soul to God that Gave it, whenever he shall please to call for it and my body I Return to the Earth to be decently buried by my Executors hereafter mentioned hoping for a Glorious Resurrection to Life eternal through the merits of Christ my Reedeemer and touching the temporal Estate, which God hath blessed me with in this Life, my Just debts and funeral charges being first paid and discharged by my executors hereafter mentioned, I Give and dispose of in the manner following vizt

Imprimis—I Give and bequeath unto my well beloved wife the use of my dwelling house and Barn, and the improvement of one third of all my Real Estate where she chuses to take it so Long as she shall remain my widow, also the improvement of my Real Estate that I Give to my Son Zackariah Standish and Isaiah Standish, ‘till Isaiah Standish comes to twenty one years of age, also the improvement of all my Other Real Estate so Long as she shall remain my widow also the use of all my personal Estate that shall remain after my Just debts and charges are paid, so Long as she shall remain my widow, for her to bring up my Children ‘till they are capable of earning their Living

Item—I Give and bequeath to my Son Zackariah Standish his heirs and assigns One fifth part of all my Real Estate to be Sett off to him when my Son Isaiah Standish comes to twenty one years of age

Item—I Give and bequeath unto my son Isaiah Standish his heirs and assigns one fifth part of all my Real Estate to be sett off to him when he comes to twenty one years of age

Item—I Give and bequeath unto my Son Peleg Standish his heirs and assigns one fifth part of all my Real Estate

Item—I Give and bequeath unto my son Oliver Standish his heirs and assigns one fifth part of all my Real Estate

Item—I Give and bequeath unto my daughter Rebecca Standish her heirs and assigns one tenth part of all my Real Estate

Item—I Give and bequeath unto my daughter Sarah Standish her heirs and assigns one tenth part of all my Real Estate—also my will is that if there should be any personal Estate Left when my wife should die or be married again that it should be equally divided amongst all my Children

Lastly—I do appoint my wife Olive Standish and John Waterman junr of Halifax to be my sole Executors of this my Last will and Testament—In Witness whereof I the said Zackariah Standish have hereunto Set my hand and Seal this Seventh day of February 1780

Signed, Sealed and declared to be his

Last will and testament in presence                                                                                 Zackariah Standish                         (seal)

of us

                John Standish

                Nathaniel Rider

                Jabez Soule

 

Presented for probate on 3 April 1780 by Olive Standish and John Waterman junr, the Executors therein named, and proved by John Standish and Jabez Soule, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to John Waterman junr., one of the before named Executors, Olive Standish, the other Executor, named having renounced the trust.

 

Moses Inglee of Halifax, John Standish, of Halifax, and Jabez Soul of Plymton, were appointed to appraise the estate of Zackariah Standish, late of Plymton, on 3 April 1780. The Inventory of the Estate of Zackariah Standish, late of Plymton, dated 19 Apr. 1780, totaled £345.3.0, including his real estate valued at £266.6.8. John Waterman junr., the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 3 June 1780.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 25, p. 485-488, from FHL microfilm #0550713.

 

 

Will of Robert Stanford of Duxbury, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1768) *

In the Name of God Amen

upon the Second Day of August in the Year of our Lord One Thousand Seven Hundred And Sixty Eight I Robert Stanford of Duxborough in the County of Plymouth in the Province of the Massachusetts Bay in New England Gentleman Upon good & Serious Consideration & being under some decays of Nature but of Perfect Mind and Memory thanks be given Unto God for the Same And therefore calling Unto Mind the Mortality of my Body and Knowing that it Appointed for all Men once to Dye do make and ordain this to be my last Will and Testament that is to Say Principally and first of all I do give and Recommend my Soul into the Hands of God that gave it and my Body I Recommend to the Earth to be Buried in a decent and Christian Manner at the discretion of my Executrix hereinafter Named nothing doubting but at the Great and General Resurection I shall receive the Same again by the Almighty Power of God And as Touching such worldly Goods and Temporal Estate wherewith it hath Pleased God to bless me in this life with I give demise and dispose of the same in the following Manner and form –

Imprimis My Will is that all my Just Debts and Funeral Charges be defray’d and Paid out of my Estate. Item I do give and Bequeath unto my eldest Son Joshua Stanford the Sum of Five Shillings, Item I do give and Bequeath to my well beloved Wife Fear Stanford all the whole Use and Improvement of all my Moveable or Personal Estate whatsoever it is or Wheresoever it may be found so long or while she shall remain my Widow together with all the Whole Use & Improvement of that Farm that was formerly Josiah Wormals that I bought of Sd. Wormals heirs with all the Appurtenances thereunto belonging while she shall remain my Widow and no longer And after that my Sd. Moveables or Personal Estate I do give and Bequeath unto my Daughter Rebeckah Alden her Heirs and Assigns forever, Item I do give and Bequeath all and the whole of my Real Estate that I have not other wise disposed of and after my Sd. Wife has done with it I do give and Bequeath unto my youngest Son Oliver Stanford his Heirs and Assigns forever

Item I do hereby Constitute and Appoint my trusty and well beloved Wife Fear Stanford to be my Sole Executrix of this my last Will and Testament and I do hereby Utterly dissalow revoke and disanul all and every other and former Wills Testaments Legacies and bequests and Executors by me in any ways before me named Willed and Bequested Ratifying and confirming this and no other to be my last Will and Testament, In Witness whereof I have hereunto Set my Hand Seal the Day and Year above written –

Signed Sealed Published Pronounced

and declared by the Said Robert Stanford

to be his last Will and Testament in                                                                                            his

the Presence of us the Subscribers                                                                                    Robert  X  Stanford                            (seal)

Mary Wadsworth                                                                                                                           Mark

Sarah Wadsworth

John Wadsworth

 

Presented for probate on 4 July 1774 by Fear Stanford of Duxborough Widow the Executrix therein named, and proved by Mary and John Wadsworth, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Fear Stanford the before named Executrix.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 21, p. 627-628, from FHL microfilm #0550712.

 

 

Will of Coronet Robert Stedson of Scituate, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1702) *

Scituate the fourth day of September Anno domini one thousand seven hundred & two. I Robert Stedson of Scituate in the County of Plimouth in New England being Aged & weak of Body but of sound disposing mind & memory praises be Rendered to God for the same And being in dayly Expectation of my last & grate Change & desirous to settle things in order- before my decease Do therefore hereby make & declare this my last will & Testament in manner following Imprimis I Humbly commit my Spirit to the father of Spirits & my body to decent Burial when it shall please God to call me hence, & Touching such outward Estate as it hath pleased God to Bless me withall my will is that the same shall be Imployed & bestowed according as herein is Expressed, Item I Give and bequeath to Mary my wellbeloved wife upon the promise & Condition hereafter after set down the sum of twelve pounds in money & ten pounds worth of my houshold goods such as she shall Choose with the sole use & benefit of the south End of my now Dwelling house & one celler & two Cows with sumer pasture & wintering of them with fifteen bushells of Good merchantable bread Corne annually paid & delivered to her & sufficient & convenient fire wood Cut & layd at her doore as she shall need the same, The sd Ten pounds worth of Goods & two Cows with the said twelve pounds in money to be for her Support & comfort during her Remaining my widdow & no longer the sd ten pounds worth of goods & Cows to be paid & Delivered to her by my Executors within two months after my decease, The sd twelve pounds in money & other particulars to be paid & delivered to her by my Eldest son Joseph Stedson as follows that is to Say the sd money at three severall payments viz: four pounds to be paid within one year after my decease & other four pounds within two years after my decease & the Residue at the Expiration of three years after my decease the sd bread Corne summering & wintering sd Cows & fire wood provided to be annually delivered paid & performed by my sd son as the same is above Expressed, Allways provided & it is the true Intent & meaning of this my will & the Condition of the bequest and Divice abovesd & Every particular of the same, That my sd wife shall & do within two moneths after my decease in writing under her hand & seale absolutely quit Claim to & Release her Right of Dower and power of thirds in & unto all my lands & housing in Scituate aforesaid that she may thenceforth have or pretend to have in or unto the same or any part thereof Except what is above given to her, unto my sd Eldest Son & his heirs etc, Item I Give & bequeath to my sd Eldest son Joseph Studson all that my Dwelling house out houses upland & meadows being the farm on which I now live & dwell to hold to him & his heirs for ever according to the known & accustomed boundaries of the same Excepting out of it only one acre of meadow which I have formerly promised to give to my son Samuel lying next unto his other meadow which sd Excepted Acre of meadow I hereby give & bequeath to the sd Samuel & his heirs for Ever Hereby Enjoyning my sd Eldest Son Joseph to pay deliver & perform unto my wife as abovesd upon her Release of dower as abovesd & acceptance of what is by this my will given & bequeathed unto her which if she shall neglect deny or Refuse to do then I hereby declare that what I have above bequeathed unto her & every particuler of the same shall thencefourth be null & void, further it is my will that my sd Eldest son shall not alien or sell any of the lands above Given him unless to his Children or one of them.

Item I Give & bequeath to my son Benjamin ten pounds out of my moveable Estate, Item I Give & bequeath to my son Thomas five pounds to be paid him out of my movables, Item I Give to my son Samuel the sum of Eight pounds out of my moveable Estate, Item I Give to my Daughter Eunice Rogers the sum of ten pounds out of my movable Estate, Item I Give to my son Robert my wearing cloaths which with what I have formerly Given him I Judge convenient for him. Item I give to my Daughter in law Abigail the Relict & widdow of my son John deceased the sum of ten pounds to be paid to her out of my movable Estate.

Item I Give unto my Grand children that are now Surviving to Each of them six shillings. Item my debts Legacies & funerall Expences being paid I hereby order the Residue of my movables to be Equally divided between my three Children viz: Benjamin, Samuel & Eunice lastly I nominate and appoint my two sons namely Benjamin & Samuel Joynt Executors of this my last will & testament & hereby Revoak & make void any former will or wills by me made & declare this only to be my last will & testament

In Testimony whereof I have hereunto sealed & subscribed the day and year first above written.

In presents of these witnesses                                                                                                The marke of Cornet

Joseph Bearstow                                                                                                                  Robert  R  Stedson                              (seal)

William Bearstow

Saml. Sprague

 

Probated on 5 Mar. 1702/3, and proved by Joseph Bearstow, William Bearstow and Samuel Sprague, the witnesses. Letters of Administration on the Estate of Cornett Robert Studson, late of Scituate, were granted to Benjamin and Samuel Studson, sons of the deceased and Joynt Executors.

 

The Inventory of all the goods & chattels of Cornet Robert Studson was taken by Samuel Clay, Thiomas King, and Richard Dwelly on 10 Feb. 1702/3, but not totaled. The Executors, Benjamin Studson and Samuel Studson, gave their oath to the inventory on 5 Mar. 1702/3.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 2, p. 15-17, from FHL microfilm #0550748.

 

 

Will of Edward Stephens of Plymouth, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1756) *

In the Name of God Amen. I Edward Stephens of Plimouth in the County of Plimouth in NewEngland, Seafairingman, being now on a Sick Bed, and apprehensive that My great Change is approching, doe first of all Give my pressious Soul to God Depending on acceptance with him thro’ the Merritts and Intersession of Jesus Christ, my body I Committ to the dust to be desently buried at the Discretion of My Execrs. hereafter named, and as to my Worldly Goods & Estate that God has Given me my Will is that after my Just Debts and Funerall charges are paid by my said Execrs. that they be disposed of as follows Viz.

Imprs. I Give to my Loving wife Mary Stephens the use & Improvement of all the back part of my Dwelling House, viz, the Kitchin, Bed room, & Buttery & one half of the Seller, as also the use and Improvement of one half of the Gardian Spot Adjoyning and the free use and Improvement of the Well to draw water for her use during her naturall life, or so long as she continues my Widow, also I Give to my Loving Wife two of the Best beds and the Furniture belonging to them and all my personall Estate Saving what is Hereafter disposed of to my four Daughters hereafter named,

Secondly, I give to my Daughter Mary Cole, and her Heirs Twenty Shillings lawfull money to be paid by my Execrs. out of my Personall Estate,

Thirdly, I give to my Daughter Hannah Bartlett and her Heirs Twenty Shillings Lmy. to be paid by my Execrs. out of my personall Estate

Fourthly, I Give to my Daughter Sarah Sherman & her Heirs twenty Shillings Lmy. to be paid by my Exurs. out of my personal estate,

Fifthly, I Give to my Daughter Elizabeth Harlow & her Heirs twenty Shillings lawfull money to be paid by my Execrs. out of my Personall Estate

Sixthly I Give to my two Sons To them their Heirs & assigns forever in equall Shares for Quantity and Quality, all that my dwelling House and Land Adjoyning thereto in Plimouth where I now dwell Viz, To my son Edward Stephens his Heirs & Assigns the one moiety of said House and Land, and to my Son Eleazer Stephens his Heirs and Assigns the Other moiety of said House and Land  Provided my said two Sons Edward and Eleazer or their Heirs Shall allow to my said wife Mary Stephens the use and Improvement of such part of said House and Appurtenances thereto belonging as I have hereafter Given her the Improvement of During her Life or so long as she shall continue my Wido. Also Provided my said Two Sons Edward & Eleazer they or their Heirs shall in equall parts pay all my Just debts and Funerall Charges, Legacys to my Daughters to be paid as aforementioned Out of my Personall Estate, And Furthermore my will is & I doe hereby Constitute and appoint my two Sons Edwd. Stephens & Eleazer Stephens, Execrs. to this my Will and Revoking all other Wills by me heretofore made, Ordain this to be my last Will and Testament, as Witness my hand and Seal this 24th. day of July in the Thirtyeth year of His Majesty’s Reign Anno Domi, 1756.

Signed Sealed published & Declared to be his last                                                       Edwd. Stephens                                 (seal)

Will & Testament, In presence of –

Jonathan Churchill

William Sutton

Thomas Foster

 

Presented for probate on 3 Jan. 1756 by the Executors therein named, and proved by Jonathan Churchill and Wm. Sutton, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Edward Stephens of Plimton, yeoman, and Eleazer Stephen of Plimouth, Fisherman, the Executors, on 3 Jan. 1856[/57].

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 14, p. 302-304, from FHL microfilm #0551542.

 

 

Will of John Stephens of Plymouth, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1822) *

        In the name of God Amen. I John Stevens of Plymouth in the County of Plymouth & Commonwealth of Massachusetts yeoman being of sound and disposing mind & Memory do make & ordain this to be my last will & Testament,  In the first place I commend my soul to the mercy of God who gave it, and my body to a decent burial, humbly praying for a glorious reserection through Jesus Christ.

        In the next place after my just debts are paid, I give & bequeath the use & improvement of my whole estate both real & personal to my beloved wife Elizabeth for her to use and improve during the term she may remain my widow, & when her improvement shall cease, I give & bequeath the whole of my said estate both Real & Personal, lying in Plymouth aforesaid or else where, to be equally divided between my four children John Stevens Zacheus Stephens, Benjamin Stevens & Sally Stephens,

        Lastly. I nominate & appoint my wife Elizabeth Stephens to be sole Executrix to this my last Will & Testament. In testamony whereof I the John Stevens have hereunto set my hand & seal this thirteenth day of July A.D. one thousand eight hundred & twenty two. Signed Sealed & declared to be his last will & testament in presence of us~.

Rosseter Cotton                                                                                                                   John Stephens                                   (seal)

  Benjamin Barnes jun

        Lewis Perry.

 

Presented for probate on 21 July 1823 by Elizabeth Stephens, the Executrix therein named, and proved by Benjamin Barnes junr. and Lewis Perry, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Elizabeth Stephens, the before named Executrix.

 

Lemuel Stephens and Bradford Barnes, Merchants, and Ezra Harlow, Gentleman, all of Plymouth, were appointed to appraise the estate of John Stevens, late of Plymouth, Yeoman, on 21 July 1823. The Inventory of the estate of the late Mr. John Stephens was not dated, but totaled $2211.00, including his house and lot and out buildings valued at $800. The appraisers gave their oath to the inventory on 13 Nov. 1823, and Elizabeth Stephens, the Executrix, gave her oath to the inventory on 17 Nov. 1823.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 57, pp. 202-203, 426-427, from FHL microfilm #0550909.

 

 

Will of James Stertevant of Halifax, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1742) *

                In the Name of God Amen.

                I James Stertevant of Halifax in the County of Plimouth, Being of Sound and Disposing mind & Memory Do Make and Ordain this to be my Last Will and Testamt.

Imprs. I Recommend my Soul into the hands of God who Gave it, my body I Comitt to the Earth to to be Decently buried and as for my worldly Estate I bequeath it in the following manner.

First I Give my Loving wife Susanna the third of my Moveable Estate to be @ her Dispose, and also the Improvemt. of One third of my Real Estate During Life.

Secondly, I Order That my Personall and Real Estate, Viz. what is Left after my wife has her Thirds, and after my Debts and Funerall Expences are Paid, be Divided into Eleven Equall Parts or Shares and that each of my Sons (Viz) Frances, Caleb & James, Shall have two Shears a peice to them their Heirs and Assigns, Caleb to take his Part of the Land where he Dwells, Viz, the Land that Lays Convenient to his House, and I Give to my Daughters Susanna, Lydia, Mary, Sarah, Elizabeth, One Share apiece, To them their Heirs and Assigns, and the third of the Real Estate that is Left after my wife’s decease, I Give in the Like Proportion Viz Two shares apeice to each of them my Sons, and one Share a peice to each of my Daughters To them their heirs or Assigns.

Thirdly I Nominate and appoint my beloved wife Susanna and My Son Frances to be Executors of this My Will. In Witness whereof I the said James Stertevant have hereunto Set my hand and Seal this thirtieth of November Annoque Domi, 1742.

Signed Sealed, & Declared to                                                                                           James Sturtevant                             (seal)

be his Last Will and Testament

   In Presence of

John Cotton

Moses Cushman

Nehemiah Bozworth

 

Presented for probate on 20 May 1756 by the Executors, and proved by John Cotton and Nehemiah Bozworth, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to his Wido. Susanna Stertevant and his son Frances Stertevant, the Executors.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 14, p. 144-145, from FHL microfilm #0551542.

 

 

Will of Nehemiah Stertevant of Plympton, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1744) *

I Nehemiah Stertevant of Plimton in the County of Plymouth In New England being Weak in body but of sound disposeing mind & Memory do make and ordain this my last will and Testamt. And first I Give and Resign my Immortal Spirit to God who gave it and my body to the Earth to be decently Buried according to the Discretion of my Executor hereafter named hopeing for a Glorious Resurrection through Jesus Christ to Eternal life and as to my outward Estate not allready disposed of by Deed I dispose of the Same as followeth. —

Imprs. I Give and bequeath to my three sons Cornelius Paul & Noah all that my peice or parcel of Cedar Swamp lying in Colchester Swamp in the Township of Plimton Aforesaid to be Equally divided between them according to quantity & quality to them their heirs or assigns,  Item I Give and bequeath to my two Sons Paul & Noah that my parcel of land which I bought of Seth Samson Containing about twenty three Acres be it more or less Which lyeth Adjoyning to the Northerly Side of the Land I have Given by Deed to my sons Nehemiah to be equally divided between them to them their heirs & assigns

Item, I Give and bequeath to my two sons Paul & Nehemiah all that my Quarter part of the Sawmill on Colchester Creeke near Mr. Benjamin Cushmans.

Item my will is that that Small peice of Meadow which I bought of Josiah Stertevant lying upon Monponset medow brooke near the old Sawmill dam Should be & remain for ye. benifit of all my Sons Cornelius Paul Nehemiah Noah & George for a Watering place. hereby Confirming to all my said Sons what I have allready Given them by Deed.

Item, I Give and bequeath to my two Grandsons Noah Eaton & Seth Eaton the sons of my daughter Mary Eaton deceasd so much to be paid out of my personal Estate as to make up what the sd. Mary hath allready receivd the sum of One hundred pounds old tenour—

Item I Give and bequeath unto my three daughters Ruth Loring Abia Holmes & Lucy Stertevant each of them so much out of my Movable Estate as to make up what they have respectively receivd already the Sum of One hundred pounds Old tenour. and what each of my daughters have receivd Shall be determined by an Account thereof which I Shall leave with my Executor hereafter named

Item, I Give and bequeath to my beloved wife ruth Stertevant all the residue & remainder of my Estate after my Just debts and funeral Charges are first paid / to be at her own dispose—

Finally I do hereby Ordain Constitute and appoint my son Cornelius Stertevant Sole Executer of this my last will and Testament hereby Revokeing and makeing Void all former will or wills by me made Ratyfieing & Confirming this and no Other to be my last will and Testament—

In Witness whereof I the said Nehemiah Stertevant have hereunto Set my hand this twenty eighth day of July Anno Domini One thousand Seven hundred & forty four~ 1744—

Signed Sealed & Declared by the sd.

Nehemiah Stertevant to be his

last will & Testament                                                                                                         Nehemiah Stertevant                          (seal)

In Prsence of us                                                                                                                        his  N  mark

Thomas Croade

Thomas Samson

Moses  N  Cushman

 

Presented for probate on 4 Oct. 1744 by the Executor, and proved by Thomas Croade Esqr. and Thomas Samson, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Cornelius Stertevant of Plymton, the Sole Executor, on 4 Oct. 1744.

 

Benjamin Weston, Josiah Perkins, and Ebenezer Sole, all of Plymton, were appointed to appraise the Estate of Nehemiah Stertevant, late of Plymton, yeoman, on 4 Oct. 1744. The Inventory was dated 19 Nov. 1744, and totaled £993.6.1, including his real estate not deeded valued at £153. The Executor gave his oath to the inventory on 20 Dec. 1744.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 9, p. 393-395, from FHL microfilm #0551533.

 

 

Will of Samuel Stertevant of Halifax, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1744) *

I Samuel Stertevant of Hallifax in the County of Plimouth in New England Labourer, being sound of body, and of Disposeing mind & memory, But being sound to Sea, do make & appoint this to be my last Will and Testament,  First Recommending My Soul to the mercy of God through Jesus Christ,  In the Next place I Give & bequeath to my Honrd Mother the widdow Mary Stertevant of Hallifax Aforesaid all my Dwelling House and homestead, viz Thirty Acres of Land within Fence in Hallifax aforesaid, the whole use improvement & profit thereof dureing her natural life, & the use of my Home, appointing my Brothr. Lemuel Stertevant Sole Executor of this my sd. Last Will and the rest of my Estate I Give him his heirs & assigns Except the Household Stuff to my mother— And in Testimony whereof I have hereunto Set my hand & Seal this thirty first day of March Anno. Domini One thousand Seven hundred & fourty four—

Signed Sealed & Declared

To be his Last Will and                                                                                                      Samuel Stertevant                            (seal)

Testament, with the Interline.

In Presence of

Josiah Cotton

Theo. Cotton

Hannah Cotton

 

Presented for probate on 21 Sept. 1744 by the Executor, and proved by Josiah Cotton Esqr, Theo. Cotton, and Mrs. Hannah Cotton, the witnesses.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 9, p. 473, from FHL microfilm #0551533.

 

 

Will of William Stertevant of Halifax, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1753) *

I, William Stertevant of Hallifax in the County of Plimouth in NewEngland Being Under Infirmitys of Body but of Sound disposing Mind & memory do make and Ordain this my Last will and Testament. And first I Comitt My Sole to God who Gave it and my Body to the dust to be decently buried Hopeing for a Joyfull Resurrection through the Merritt of Christ Jesus at the Last day and as to my Outward Estate I dispose of the same as followeth

Imprimis I Give and Bequeath to my two daughters Hannah Ripley & Fear Waterman all my Land both upland and meadow lying on the South Side of the Herring River in Halifax aforesaid and adjoyning to said River with My Sixth part of the Saw mill Standing thereon. Also all my Ceder Swamp Lying at aplace Called Tawannos Neck in Said Halefax Adjoyning to the Ceder Swam I Gave them by Deed: also two third parts of My Moveable Estate After my Just debts and Funerall Expences are Deducted, the said Land & Premisses to Equally Divided between them

Item. I Give and Bequeath to my Grand Children the Children of my late son Isaac Stertevant, Vizt William Isaac, Simeon Samuel Jesse Nathl. Deborah and Martha or to Such of them as shall be Surviving at the time of my decease the Other third part of my Moveable Estate, after the Deductions Abovementioned to be Equall Divided between them

Item I Give and Bequeath unto my Grandsons the sons of my said late So Isaac, Vizt. To the Aforenamed William Isaac, Simeon Saml. Jesse & Nathl. or to Such of them as Shall be Surviving at the time of my decease their heirs and Assigns in Equall Shares all that my homestead whereon I now Dwell Lying Adjoyning to the north Side of the Aforesd. Herring River Togather with my Quarter part of the Saw mill and appurtenances Standing thereon they paying to my Wellbeloved Wif Joanna the Sum of three pounds Six Shillings And Eight pence Lawfull Money Yearly and Every Year dureing her Naturall life or the time She shall Continue my Widdow

Item. I Give and Bequeath to my Said Wif Joanna the aforesaid Sum of three pounds Six Shillings and Eight pence Yearly and Ever Year dureing her Contining my Widdow as Aforesaid to be paid her by My aforesd. Grandsons, over and above my Covenant with her before Marriage which I hereby Order my Execr. hereafter named to fullfill and pay to her out of my Moveable Estate

Item I Give to my Six Grandsons aforenamed their heirs and assigns in Equall Shears all that my piece or percell of Ceder Swamp Lying in the Majors purchass Ceder Swamp near the Ridges So Called which I bought of Ebenezer Standish and Moses Stertevant

Item I Give and Bequeath unto my aforesaid Grandson William Stertevant his heirs and assigns all that my piece or percell of Ceder Swamp lying by Turkey Swamp near Watermans Meadow in Said Hallifax which I bought of Dea. Robt. Waterman

Lastly I do hereby Nominate and appoint my Son in Law John Waterman junr. to be Sole Executor of this my last Will and Testament hereby Revoaking all Other Will or Wills by me made heretofore and Allowing this and no Other to be my Last Will and Testament. In Witness Whereof I have hereunto Sett My hand and Seal this Seventh day of August Annoque Domini, One thousand Seven hundred and fifty three 1753.—

Signed Sealed and Declared by the sd                                                                             William Stertevant          (seal)

Willm. Stertevant to be his Last Will &

Testement in Presents of us—

Thos. Croade

Nathl. Croade

John Tillson

 

Probated on 3 Sept. 1753, and proved by Nathl. Croade and John Tillson, two of the witnesses. Administration was granted to John Waterman of Halifax, Husbandman, the Executor in the Same Will named.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 13, p. 130-132, from FHL microfilm #0551540.

 

 

Will of Abel Stetson of Pembroke, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1809) *

In the Name of God amen I Abel Stetson of Pembroke in the County of Plymouth & State of Massachusetts being weak in Body & considering the Uncertainty of this mortal Life but of sound & perfect mind & Memory blessed be almighty God for the same, do make & publish this my last will & Testament in manner & form following: that is to say: first after my just debts are paid, I give & bequeath unto my beloved wife all my personal Estate for & during her natural Life,– I further give & devise unto my beloved wife Sarah Stetson all my Real Estate, wherever it may be found either in Pembroke or elsewhere to her use as long as she shall remain my Widow: And after her marriage should that ever take place, then the same shall be divided by & between my five Children viz equally should they be living & in that one or more of them should decease, the same to be divided among the Survivors. I further give and bequeath to my eldest Son Isaac O Stetson one Dollar, to my second Son Abel Stetson I give & bequeath one Dollar, to my third Son Zenas Stetson I give & bequeath one Dollar; to my eldest daughter Sally Stetson I give & bequeath one Dollar; to my second Daughter Almira Stetson, I give & bequeath one Dollar. And I also give & bequeath unto my Aged mother Lydia Stetson one Heifer three years old. – Which said several Legacies or Sums of Money I order shall be paid to the several Legatees within six months after my decease & I do hereby appoint my beloved Wife Sarah Stetson Executrix and David Oldham senior Executor of this my last Will & Testament, hereby revoking all former wills by me made –

In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand & Seal this fifteenth day of March in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred & nine ~~~

signed sealed published & declared by the above named Abel Stetson to be his last

will & Testament in the presence of us who at his request &

in his presence have hereunto subscribed our Names as Witnesses to the same

                William White                                                                                                      Abel Stetson                                       (seal)

                Jacob Bryant

                George Keith junr.

 

Presented for probate on 20 June 1810 by David Oldham junr., and proved by William White and Jacob Bryant, two of the witnesses. Letters Testamentary were granted to David Oldham junr.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 43, pp. 218, 222-223, from FHL microfilm #0550902.

 

 

Will of Samuel Stetson of Scituate, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1757) *

                                                In the Name of God, Amen,

  The eighth day of November anno Domini 1757. I Samuel Stetson of Scituate in the county of Plymouth in New-England cordwainer being aged and under infirmities of body, but of sound mind & memory, do therefore make & ordain this my Last will and testament in manner followg.

   Imprs. I give to my son George Stetson one shilling, he having received the rest of his portion already. ~

   Item, I give to my son Joseph Stetson, thirteen shillings & four pence. –

   Item, I give to my daughter Elizabeth Stetson, thirteen shillings & four pence.

   Item, I give to my daughter Alice Ripley, thirteen shillings & four pence.

   Item, I give to my daughter Ruth Merritt, thirteen shillings & four pence. –

   Item, I give to my son Joshua Stetson, thirteen shillings & four pence.

   Item, I give & bequeath unto my son Abner Stetson his heirs & assigns forever, all my estate both real & personal of what kind or nature soever, or wheresoever lying or being, upon condition he pays all my just debts, and all the Legacies given to my other children in this my will and also maintain & support my wife Rachel Stetson during the whole term of her life. ~

   Lastly, I do hereby nominate and appoint my son Abner Stetson, sole executor of this my Last will & testament. –   In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand & seal the day & year first above written. ~

Signed, sealed, published, & declared by the                                                                                 his

said Samuel Stetson to be his Last will                                                                            Samuel   Z   Stetson                            (seal)

& testament, in presence of us witnesses.                                                                                       mark

                John Stetson

                James Barker

                Joshua Lincoln

 

Presented for probate on 17 Oct. 1769 by Abner Stetson, the executor therein named, and proved by John Stetson, James Barker, and Joshua Lincoln, the witnesses therein named. Letters of Administration were granted to Abner Stetson, the before named executor, with John Stetson and James Barker, both of Scituate, yeomen, as sureties.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 20, p. 308-309, from FHL microfilm #0550711.

 

 

Will of Josiah Stevens of Wareham, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1793) *

        In the name of God amen—this twenty ninth day of may in the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred & ninety three—I Josiah Stevens of Wareham in the county of Plymouth, in the Comonwealth of Massachusetts, yeoman, being of a disposing mind & memory, do make & ordain this my Last will & testament wherein I give & dispose of all my worldly goods or estate in manner & form following

Imprs I Give and bequeath to my beloved wife Abigail Stevens the one third part of all my personal Estate, and also the improvement of the one third part of all my real estate during her remaining my widow

Item I Give and bequeath to my son Josiah Stevens the sum of twenty five pounds Lawful money to be paid as is here after directed in this my will

Item—I Give and bequeath to my son Paul Stevens the whole of Cedar Swamp I hold by Deed from Benjamin Barrows, which with what he hath already had is to be his part of my estate—as by a former agreement

Item—I Give and bequeath to my son Elijah Stevens and to his heirs or assigns my Dwelling House & other Buildings, my wharfs and all my lands lying at a place called the narrows, he allowing one convenient room for my Daughter Abigail to live in during her living a single life or remaining unmarried—and he paying to his Brother Josiah the sum of fifteen pounds being part of the Legacy above given to him, and other the Legacies hereafter directed for him to pay

Item—I give and bequeath to my Son Silas Stevens & to his heirs or assigns all my Lands meadows & buildings lying on the east side of wonkinco river & which I hold by deed from Gershom morse, he paying to his brother Josiah the sum of ten pounds, being the remaining part of the Legacy herein given to him and that the same be paid when he said Silas shall arrive to the age of twenty one years—also I give him the Cedar Swamp I hold by said Morse’s Deed.

        Item—I Give and bequeath to my two sons Luther Stevens & Bela Stevens and their heirs or assigns in equal halves between them, all my Lands meadows & appurtenances that I hold by Deed from Thomas Whetten be the same more or less as is described in said Whitten’s Deed to me, and also the Lands & swamp I laid out adjoining to said Land—and also a small piece of Cedar Swamp lying in the township of Carver which I hold by Deed from Simeon Barrows

        Item—I Give to my Son Alvan Stevens & to his heirs or assigns my Salt meadow or sedge flat lying at little harbor so called, and also the sum of forty five pounds of Lawful money to be paid him by my Executor hereafter named when he shall arrive to the age of twenty one years, and also my will is that he shall have a suitable bringing up and Education during his minority afforded him by my said Executors, and that the improvement of his Legacy be considered as an equivalent for the same

        Item—I Give to my Daughter Abigail Stevens, two feather Beds & furniture, and also the one half of all my houshold furniture (excepting the bed & bedding) also excepting my Clock & large looking glass, also I give her thirty pounds Lawful money and that her bringing up shall be considered as the Interest thereof untill she arrives to the age of eighteen years, also I give her the privilege of living in a convenient room in my Dwelling house during her single life

        Item—I Give to my Grand Daughter Sally Stevens Washburn, all the things that was her mothers, that are now in my possession to be delivered to her when she shall arrive to the age of eighteen years, also I Give her the sum of two pounds of Lawful money to be paid her by my Executor when she shall arrive to the age of Eighteen years

        Item—my will is that my three sons Luther Bela & Alva be each of them put out to Learn suitable trades, as soon as either of them are of suitable age therefor

        Item—I Give and bequeath all the remainder of my estate, not particularly disposed of in this my will, to my wife, & my son Elijah, they paying all my just debts, the Legacies herein given, and compleatly fulfilling this my will

Item—I constitute & appoint my living wife Abigail Stevens and my Son Elijah Stevens, my joint Executor & Executrix to this my Last will & testament hereby revoking all other & former wills ratifying & confirming this and no other to be my Last will & testament, as witness my hand & seal the day aforesaid—

Signed Sealed pronounced & declared by                                                                      Josiah Stevens  —            seal

sd Josiah Stevens to be his Last will and

testament in presence of

                David Nye

                Perez Briggs

                Benja Briggs

 

On 14 Nov. 1793 Abigail Stevens, widow of Josiah Stevens, and one of the executors named in his will, refused, “being much indisposed & my health so decayed that I am utterly unable to officiate in that capacity…” The will was presented for probate on 20 Nov. 1793 by Elijah Stevens, the other executor, and proved by David Nye and Perez Briggs, two of the witnesses, and letters of administration were given to Elijah Stevens, executor.

 

Benja. Briggs, Rowland Leonard, yeoman, and Benja. Fearing, Gentm., all of Wareham, were appointed to appraise the estate of Josiah Stephens, late of Wareham, yeoman, on 7 July 1797. The Inventory of the Estate of Capt. Josiah Stephens, late of Wareham, dated 27 July 1797, totaled $2637.75, including his homestead in Wareham containing his dwelling house & buildings, wharf, & Pew &c., as given by will to his son Elijah valued at $900, lands, meadows, swamps & buildings as given by his will to his son Silas valued at $583, lands, meadows, swamp &c. given by his will to his sons Luther & Bela valued at $720, meadow or sedge Flatt given to his son Alvan valued at $100, and the swamp given to his son Paul valued at $10. Josiah Stephens, the administrator de bonis non of the estate gave his oath to the inventory on 9 Aug. 1797.

 

Benja. Briggs, yeoman, Benja. Fearing, Gentleman, & Rowland Leonard, Mercht., all of Wareham, were appointed to assign & set off to Abigail Stephens, widow of Josiah Stephens, late of Wareham, her thirds or right of dower in the estate of her late husband on 20 Oct. 1797. The return of Benjamin Briggs, Benjamin Fearing, and Rowland Leonard is dated 31 Oct. 1797, and it was approved on 23 Nov. 1797.

 

        I Abigail Stephens do solemnly swear that, in disposing of the real estate of Luther Stephens, Bela Stephens & Alven Stephens, minors, that I will use my best skill & judgment in fixing on the time & place of sale; and that I will exert my utmost endeavours to dispose of the same in such manner as will produce the greatest advantage to all persons interested therein, and that without any sinister views whatsoever Novr 25th. 1797.

                                                                                                                                                Abigail Stephens

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 33, p. 477-480, from FHL microfilm #0550717, and Vol. 36, pp. 204-205, 264-265, 266, from FHL microfilm #0550719.

 

 

Will of John Stickney of South Hadley, Hampshire County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1816) *

        I John Stickney of South Hadley in the County of Hampshire and Commonwealth of Massachusetts Yeoman being of a sound and disposing mind and memory do on this fourteenth day of August in the year of our LORD One thousand eight hundred and sixteen make and publish this my last will & Testament in manner following viz.—

First    My will is that after my decease my body have a decent and Christian burial and that the Charges of the same be paid by my Executors out of my Estate.

Secondly, My Estate Real & Personal, which the Providence of God hath given me I give in the following manner.

        To my beloved wife Lucy I give the one third part of all my Real Estate to be for her use and improvement for and during the time she remains my widow.

        To my son Walter I give the whole of my Real Estate to him and his heirs in fee simple, excepting only the item(?) therein which I have before given to my wife, and also all my Personal Estate, after payment of my Funeral Charges, the expense of said burial, and my just debts he paying out of the same Real & Personal estate the Legacies hereinafter bequeathed to my other Children.

        To my son John I give the sum of One Dollar, which sum together with what he has already received I consider as his full share of my estate to be paid by my son Walter, out of the share which I have in this my Will given to him.—

        And to my Son Caleb Howard, I give the sum of One Dollar which together with what he has already received I consider as his full share of my estate—this Legacy also to be paid by my son Walter out of the share in this Will given to him.

        Lastly—I do constitute and appoint my said Wife Lucy, and my said son Walter, now both of said South Hadley, Executors of this my last Will & Testament. In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal the day and year aforesaid.

Signed Sealed, Published & delivered

by John Stickney the Testator as his                                                                                                John Stickney    (seal)

last Will & Testament in presence

of us who sign as witnesses in presence of said Testator & of each other.

Selah Smith,  Josiah Snow,  Eliphaz Moody

 

Proved on 2 May 1826, and administration of the estate granted to Walter Stickney, the executor. His bondsmen were Eliphaz Moody and Jonah Snow, all of South Hadley.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Hampshire County Probate Vol. 35, p. 937-939, from FHL microfilm #0879205.

 

 

Will of Hezekiah Stoddard of Scituate, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1731) *

In the Name of God Amen. ye twelfth Day of November In ye Year of our Lord one thousand Seven hundred & thirty one I Hezekiah Stodder of Scituate in ye County of Plymouth in ye Province of ye Massachusets Bay in New England Cooper Being sick of Body but of perfect mind & memory, Thanks be Given to GOD, And Calling to mind my mortality & Knowing that it is appointed for all men once to Dye, Do make, constitute, ordain & Declare this my Last will & Testament, Revoking & Disanulling by these presents all & Every Testament & Testaments, will & wills heretofore by me made & Declared either by word or writing and this to be taken only for my last will & Testament and no Other,— And first, I Give & Recommend my Soul unto ye hands of GOD yt. Gave it, hoping & trusting that by ye Merits of Jesus Christ My Saviour & Dear Redeemer I shall have full Remission & free Pardon of all my Sins and that I Shall Inherit Everlasting life—And my Body I Commit to ye Dust to be Decently Buryed at ye Discretion of my Executors hereafter named hoping that it shall be Restored to me again a glorious Body at ye General Day of Resurrection—And Now for ye settling of my temporal estate and such Goods & chattels as it hath pleased GOD to Bestow upon me I Do ordain Give & Dispose of ye same in manner & form following That is to Say.— First; I will that my Just Debts & funeral Charges & ye Probate of this my last will well & truly paid or ordered to be paid within some convenient Time after my decease by my Executor or Executors hereafter named.

Item. I give & Bequeath unto my well beloved wife Lois Stoddard my Best Bed & Furniture belonging to ye same and also my Loom & ye tackling belong to ye same, During her Life and then to return to my two sons hereafter named also my mind and will is that my wife shall have Liberty to live in my House so long as She shall live my widow.—

Item. I give & bequeath unto my well beloved sons Joshua Stodder & Hezekiah Stodder their Heirs & assigns forever all my Housing & Lands in Scituate in ye County of Plymo. and also two shares in ye undivided Land in Hingham in ye County of Suffolk—Also all my moveable Estate within Doors & without Saving what I have Given to my wife Equally to be Divided between ym, They paying to yr mother fourty Shillings apiece and fifty shillings apiece to my well beloved Daughter Bathshebe ye wife of David Dunbar—and Seven pounds ten Shillings apiece unto my well beloved Daughter Eunice Stodder when my Son Hezekiah Stodder Shall Arrive at ye Age of twenty one Years, My mind & will is that what I have ordered my sons to pay to their mother & Sisters shall be I Goods—

Also my mind & will is that my Sister Hannah shall have Liberty to Live in ye little End of my House if she sees cause to Live yre. And a Privilege in ye Lettow So long as She lives unmarried.—

And Finally I do make, ordain, Constitute & appoint my well beloved Friend Theophilus Cushing of Hingham in ye County of Suffolk in ye Province of ye massachusets Bay in New-England with my well beloved son Joshua Stodder to be my Sole Executrix of this my Last will & Testament Trusting & Confiding in them that yy will truly perform & Duely Execute ye same according to ye true Intent & Meaning thereof in Every part of it — In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand & Seal ye Day & Year above mentioned.—

Signed, Sealed, Published, Pronounced &                                                                                      his

Declared by ye sd Hezekiah Stodder                                                                                Hezekiah  S  Stoddard        (Seal)

In ye presence of us.                                                                                                                            mark

Daniel Greanleaf

Jonathan Farrow

Obadiah Gross

 

December 20th. 1731. ye within named Jona. Farrow & Obadiah Gross made oath that yy saw ye within named Hezekiah Stoddard Sign seal & heard him Declare ye within written Instrumt. to be his last will & Testament and that they at ye same time Together with Daniel Greenleaf in ye presence of ye sd Testator Set to yr hands as witnesses and yt according to ye best of yr Observation he then was of a sound & Disposing mind & memory.  Before Isaac Winslow Judge of Probate.

 

Mr. Jona. Farrow, Mr. Obadiah Gross, both of Hingham, & Mr. Isaac Turner, of Scituate, were appointed to appraise the estate of Hezekiah Stoddard of Scituate, both real & personal, on 20 Dec. 1731. The inventory, not dated, totaled £244.11.00, and was sworn to by Theophilus Cushing, one of the Executors, on 27 Mar. 1732.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 6, pp. 118, 163, from FHL microfilm #0550512.

 

 

Will of Henry Strobridge of Middleborough, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1842) *

Be it remembered, that I Henry Strobridge of Middleborough in the County of Plymouth and Commonwealth of Massachusetts, do on this seventeenth day of January in the year of our Lord eighteen hundred and forty two, make and publish this, my last will and Testament in manner following viz.

In the first place I give and bequeath to my daughter Elizabeth Strobridge to her heirs and assigns a pew No 26 in the Congregational Meeting house in this parish also two cows, my chaise and the whole of my household Furniture of every description including Beds bedding &c.

Second. I give and bequeath to my son Thomas Strobridge the whole of my wearing apparel

Third. I give and bequeath to my Grandson Thomas Henry Strobridge son of my Son Thomas Strobridge and to his heirs and assigns forever my thirty acre lot of land which my Father bought of John Montgomery; also the whole of the sixteen acres of land which my Father bought of Jotham Caswell and Charles Runnels, with the barn situate thereon, excepting a strip of land estimated at one hundred Rods, adjoining to the Highway and my other barn thereon standing, which I have recently conveyed by deed to my daughter Elizabeth—. I also give to my said Grandson Thomas Henry, the remainder of my stock of creatures not heretofore disposed of together with all my farming

Fourth. I give and bequeath, to my Grand daughter Ann Sampson, the wife of Aziel Washburn and daughter of my son Thomas, one hundred dollars, to be paid (by my Executors within two years from my decease) by the sale of wood standing on the above named premisis conveyed to my Grandson Thomas Henry Strobridge, which wood I order to be sold by my Executor, for the payment of said Legacy.

Fifth. I give and bequeath to my Grand Children, the children of my daughter Sina (who married Cyrus Bosworth) deceased, Three hundred Dollars to be paid to them within two years from my decease.

Sixth. I give and bequeath to my Grand Children the children of my daughter Sarah M. (who married Keith Bassett deceased) three hundred dollars to be paid to them within two years from my decease.

Seventh. It is my further will that in case the said Thomas Henry Strobridge my grandson shall decease before he shall have arrived at the age of twenty one years without issue, said property named in the third section disposed of to said Thomas Henry, I order to be give to Ann Sampson, my grand daughter and wife of Aziel Washburn, to her and her heirs and assigns forever, posession the day he the said Thomas Henry might have become twenty one years of age, and on the day he, the said Thomas Henry will come in possession if living – And the Improvement of said property to be vested in the hands of my Trustees during his minority

Eighth. I give and bequeath to my Grandson Thomas Henry a pew in said Congregational Meeting house No Eleven.

Ninth. I further order that the residue of my property both real and personal be committed to the care and safe keeping of Ebenezer Strobridge and John Montgomery both of Middleborough in the County of Plymouth and William H. Soule of Plympton in said County, whom I nominate and appoint as Trustees, and further order my said Trustees to pay to my Executor such amount as is necessary to pay the expenses of a contemplated suit at law, or any liability whatever may occur in the decision of the suit about to be commenced by Noble Canedy, and after having paid all expenses and liabilities attending such suit, Legacies, just Debts and incidental charges, the residue to be equally divided — One half of which I give and bequeath to my daughter Elizabeth Strobridge, the other half I order to be retained in the hands of my Trustees to be disposed of according as their judgement and discretion shall dictate.

Lastly I do appoint Ebenezer Strobridge of this my last will and Testament

In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal the day and year above written.

Signed, Sealed, and published by the said Henry Strobridge, declaring this to be his last will and Testament in presence of us, who at his request were called as Witnesses to the same, and in his presence did hereto subscribed our names

   Moses Shaw                                                                                                                      Henry Strobridge                             (seal)

   Caleb Bassett

   Horatio N. Thomas

 

Presented for probate on the last Tuesday of May 1842 by Ebenezer Strobridge, the Executor therein named, and proved by Caleb Bassett and Horatio N. Thomas, two of the Witnesses thereto subscribed.

 

Ebenezer Strobridge, of Middleborough, was granted Administration of the Estate of Henry Strobridge, late of Middleborough, on 31 May 1842, with Caleb Bassett and Horatio N. Thomas, both of Middleborough, as sureties.

Luther Washburn, George Williams Junior, and Caleb Bassett, all of Middleborough, were appointed to appraise the Estate of Henry Strobridge, late of Middleborough, on 16 Feb. 1842.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Henry Strobridge, late of Middleborough, was dated 22 Mar. 1842, and totaled $3946.35, including his real estate valued at $2332. Ebenezer Strobridge, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 31 May 1842.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probatew Vol. 84, pp. 240-242, 255-256, from FHL microfilm #0555267, and Vol. 1G, p. 204.

 

 

Will of James Stubbs of Kingston, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1731) *

In the Name of GOD Amen. ye. twentyeth Day of Decr. 1731. I James Stubbs of ye. Town of Kingston In ye. County of Plymo. in New-England Shipwright, Being very Sick and weak in Body But of perfect mind & memory, Thanks be Given unto GOD, therefore Calling to mind ye. Mortality of my Body & knowing that it is appoynted for all men once to dye Do make & ordayn this my Last will & Testament, That is to say Principally & first of all I Give & Recommend my Soul into ye. Hands of GOD that gave it and my Body I Recommend to ye. Earth to be Buryed in a Decent Christian Buryal at ye. Discretion of my Executors And as touching Such worldly Goods & Estate wherewith It hath pleased GOD to give me in this Life I give & Demise & Dispose of ye Same in following manner, That is to Say, I Give & Bequeath to Hannah my Dearly Beloved Wife all my Estate that shall or may be left after my Just Debts are paid Both Real & Personal Goods or Chattels, Debts & Moveable Effects, whom I Likewise Constitute & make & ordayn my Sole Executrix of this my Last will & Testament & all by her freely to be possessed & Enjoyed and I do hereby utterly Revoke Every other former Testaments, Wills, Bequests, Executors by me in any ways before named Ratifying this & no other as my last will & Testament In Witness whereof I have hereunto Set my hand & Seal ye. Day & Year above written.—

Signed Sealed, Published & Declared by

ye sd. James Stubs as his Last will &                                                                                James Stubs                       (seal)

Testament In ye. presence of us

ye. Subscribers

Thomas Foster

Nathan Thomas

James Bradford

 

Proved by Nathan Thomas and James Bradford on 9 Feb. 1731[/32], and by Thos. Foster on 8 Mar. 1731/2. Letters of Administration were granted to Hannah Stubs, Relict widow of the deceased and Sole Executrix, on 31 Mar. 1732.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 6, p. 142-143, from FHL microfilm #0550512.

 

 

Will of Caleb Sturtevant of Halifax, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1785) *

        In the name of God amen – I Caleb Sturtevant of Halifax in the county of Plymouth in the Comonwealth of the Massachusetts, yeoman, being sensible of my frailty and mortality, and being infirm in body, but of a sound mind and memory, do make and ordain this to be my last will & testament, and first, I commit my mortal body to the dust, and my soul to God who gave it, and touching my temporal estate wherewith god hath blessed me, I dispose of it in the following manner – vizt

        Imprimis – I Give unto my well beloved wife Abigail Sturtevant the use and improvement of all my real Estate untill my two children Caleb & Abigail arrive to the age of fourteen years, and after that I Give unto my said wife ye use & improvement of one third of my real estate so long as she remains my widow

  Item – I Give unto my wife the use and improvement of one third of a Pew in the meeting house in partnership with John Tilson so long as she remains my widow

   Item – I Give unto my said wife all the moveables she brought to me when I married her, for her own use and disposal forever

   Item – I Give unto my said wife, all the provisions of all sorts, that shall be left at my decease for her own use and the use of the family

   Item – I Give unto my two sons Caleb Sturtevant & Winslow Sturtevant all my homestead Lands and buildings & Cedar Swamp within the homestead Lands also my fresh meadow at the mouth of monponset pond, and the cedar swamp adjoining being the whole Lot joining together, also one third of a Pew in the meeting house, also two Lots of cedar swamp I bought of Deacon Samuel Bryant and my Land at the stone ware, and one half a Pew in the meeting house, all of which for them to come in possession after my wife has done with them, to be equally divided betwixt them, to them and their heirs and assigns forever

   Item – I Give unto my three sons Jabez Sturtevant, Caleb Sturtevant & Winslow Sturtevant all my wearing apparell to be equally divided betwixt them, to them their heirs and assigns forever

   Item – I Give unto my two sons Caleb & Winslow to be equally divided betwixt them one yoke of oxen, two Cows & ten sheep, and one Bed & Bedding being all the Bed & Bedding I have not yet disposed of, and my two guns and military armour, and all my farming tools & utensills

   Item – I Give unto my Eight Daughters-vizt–Rebecca–Jane & the heir of Susanna, Betty, Fear–Sarah, Patience & Abigail, my just debts & funeral charges being first paid out of the same all my moveable Estate not yet disposed of, and to be divided in manner following – vizt, that each of them that I have not given any thing before shall have so much taken out for them as to make them all equal before there be any division, and the remainder to be equally divided betwixt my said eight daughters, to them their heirs & assigns forever

  Lastly – I do constitute and appoint Benjamin Cook of Kingston in the county of Plymouth Gentleman, my sole Executor, of this my Last will & testament and making void all others as my Last will and testament – In witness whereof I the said Caleb Sturtevant have hereunto Set my hand Seal, this fourteenth day of June annoq Domini one thousand seven hundred and eighty five

Signed Sealed and declared to be

his Last will & testament in pre-                                                                                       Caleb Sturtevant                              (seal)

sence of us

                Noah Cushing

                Jabez Soule

                Mercy Seares

 

Presented for probate on 4 Nov. 1793 by Benjamin Cook, the Executor therein named, and proved by Noah Cushing and Jabez Soule, two of the witnesses.

 

  To the Hon. Joshua Thomas Esqr. Judge of the Probate of Wills, &c for the County of Plymouth &c – Sir – I am Informed that Mr Caleb Sturtevant Late deceased of Halifax, appointed me as Executor on his will – Sir I must inform you that I am in so poor a state of health that I cannot undertake that business as I am not able to go abroad – yours &c

                                                                                                                                                Benjamin Cook

 

To Saml Stafford Sturtevant of Halifax in ye aforesaid County Gentleman

   Whereas Caleb Sturtevant Late of sd. Halifax yeoman deced on the fourteenth day of June Anno Domini 1785 made his Last will & testament in writing & signed, sealed & delivered ye. same before sufficient witnesses, by which will (after gifts & Legacies then made) he appointed Benja. Cook Excor of ye. same will, but he refusing ye. sd. trust, admon. with ye. same will annexed is therefore committed unto you ye. sd. Saml. Staffd. Sturtevant of all & singular ye. Goods Chattells, Rights & Credits of ye said deced, well & faithfully to dispose of ye same according to Law & ye. direction of ye. sd. will… In Testimony whereof I have hereunto Set my hand & seal of office this fourth day of November, in the year of our Lord 1793

                                                                                                                                                Joshua Thomas

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 33, p. 465-467, from FHL microfilm #0550717, and Vol. 27, p. 537.

 

 

Will of Josiah Sturtevant of Halifax, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1768) *

In the Name of God Amen the Seventh Day of June – Anno Domini One Thousand Seven hundred & Sixty Eight I Josiah Sturtevant of Hallifax in the County of Plymouth & Province of the Massachusetts-Bay in New England being of a Perfect and Disposing Mind & Memory But calling to mind the Mortality of my Body & Knowing that it is Appointed for all Men Once to Die Do make & Ordain this my Last Will & Testament that is to Say first of all I Give & Recommend my Soul into the hands of God that Gave it & my Body I Recommend to the Earth to be Buried in a Decent & Christian Burial at the Discretion of My Executor nothing Doubting but at the Resurrection I  Shall Receive the Same again by the Mighty Power of God And with Respect to the Worldly Estate withwhich God has Blessed me In this Life I Give Demise & Dispose of the Same in the following Manner

Imprimis I Give & Bequeath to my Son Josiah Twelve Acres of Land upon Hemlock Island to be Laid out on the South Westerly side next to Watermans Meadow so called Extending to the Northerly Part of Said Land ~~

Item I Give to my Son Charles Ten Acres of Land Lying on Said Island to be Laid out in Length Joining to Josiahs ~

Item I Give to my Sons Dependence & Samuel Stafford Eighteen Acres upon Said Island to be Laid out nex Joyning to Charles’s to be Equally Divided between them ~

Item I Give to my Sons Josiah Charles Church & William my four Lots of Land Containing Two hundred Acres at the Eastward at a Place called Miscongus at Whole Cove to be Equally Divided Among them Also I Give to my Said Sons Josiah Charles Church & William my Lot of Land at Jones River Pond Containing Sixty Acres to be Divided Equally betwixt them both for Quantity & Quality Item I Give to my Sons Josiah & Dependence all the Land & Meadow which I own above the Dam on the South Side of Monponset Meadow Brook to be Divided Equally between them for Quantity & Quality & that During the Time that the Mill Dam Shall be kept up the Brook Shall be a fence betwixt them & Samuel Stafford & that no Creatures be put thereon But Such as the Brook will Turn – Item I Give & Bequeath to my Sons Church and William the Remaining Part of My Sixty Acre Lot Lying on Hemlock Island to be Equally Divided between them for Quantity & Quality Item I Give to my Son Church my Lot of Land that Lyeth Joining to the Cedar Swamp & Austin Bearses Land – Item I Give & Bequeath to my Son Samuel Stafford all the Remainder of My Estate both Real & Personal Reserving to my Wife One Third Part of My Moveables During her Life & the Improvement of One half of My Homestead during her Widow-hood & the keeping of Two Cows if She Shall Desire it & if this is not Sufficient for her Support my Will is that my Sons all of them together Should afford her whatever may be Requisite to an Honorable Maintainance during her Widow hood & Likewise my Son Samuel Stafford to pay all the Debts which I Shall Justly owe at my Decease & the following Legacies which I Bequeath to my Several Children hereafter mentioned to make up their Respective Portions with what they have Already had to be paid in the following Manner Viz Charles to pay to Zadock Four Pounds William to pay to my Grand Daughter Cloe four Pounds when She Shall Arrive at Eighteen Years of Age Samuel Stafford to pay to My Daughter Hannah Cotton four Pounds Dependence to pay to my Daughter Luce Hammond Four Pounds Church to pay to my Daughter Tilson four Pounds Likewise that Samuel Stafford Should Provide Grave Stones for me & my Wife ~ Likewise I Do hereby Appoint my son Samuel Stafford to be Sole Executor of this my Last Will & Testament & I do hereby Revoke & Disanull all & Every Other former Wills & Testaments Legacies or Executors by me any Way before named Willed or Bequeathed Ratifying & Confirming this and no Other to be my Last Will & Testament In Witness Whereof I have hereunto Set my hand & Seal the Day and Year Abovementioned ~

Signed Sealed & Declared

to be his Last Will & Testament

by the Said Josiah Sturtevant                                                                                            Josiah Sturtevant                             (seal)

In the Presence of us ~

                Ephraim Briggs

                Nathll Waterman

                Seth Waterman

 

Presented for probate on 7 March 1774 by Samuel Stafford Sturtevant, the Executor therein named, and proved by Ephraim Briggs and Seth Waterman, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Samuel Stafford Sturtevant, the Executor, with Josiah Cotton of Plymouth, Gentleman, and Dependance Sturtevant of Plymton, Yeoman, as sureties.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 21, p. 600-602, from FHL microfilm #0550712.

 

 

Will of Samuel Sturtevant of Halifax, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1736) *

In the Name of God Amen. I Samuel Sturtevant of Hallifax in the County of Plymo in the Province of the Massachusetts-Bay in New-England Yeoman, being aged & not knowing how Soon it may please my Maker to take Me hence, and being desirous to Settle & dispose of that wch God hath lent me of external Goods, I do therefore Make & Constitute this my last Will & Testament in Manner & form following— That is to Say First & Principally I resign my Soul into the Mercifull Hands of Almighty God, Hoping thro’ the merits of my Blessed Saviour for the Pardon of my Sins & the Salvation of my Soul— My Body I Commit to the Earth to be decently buried according to the Discretion of those Who have the management of that affair~~

And as for the Worldly Goods which I have a Right in & unto I Give & Bequeath ye Same in the following Manner viz Imprims— I Give unto my beloved Wife Elizabeth the use and Improvement of my Dwelling House & Shop, and one third part of ye Barn & Homestead Lands during the time of her Widowhood & also one Third Part of my Moveable Estate—

Itm I Give unto my Son Samuel five Shillings to be paid out of my Personal Estate by my Execr hereafter named, which together with what I have already Given him by Deed is in full of his Portion —

Itm I Give to my Son James my Gun wch is now in his Possession, and do hereby Confirm unto him the Land yt I have already Given him by Deed —

Itm I bequeath unto my Son Moses five Shillings out of my personal Estate which is in full of his Portion with what I have already given him by Deed —

Itm I Give unto my Son Josiah five Shillings which is in full of his Portion I having already made Provision for him by Deed —

Itm All the Rest & Residue of my Goods & Chattels not herein before Bequeathed, I Give the Same to my Children William & John (whom their Uncle John Sturtevant provided farms for) Nehemiah & Hannah Standish, & to the Heirs of my Daughter Mercy Bozworth Deceasd in equal Proportion to be Distributed by my Executr hereafter named that is to Say four fifth Parts thereof to my sd four Children & the remaining fifth Part thereof to my sd Grand Children viz: David, Jonathan, Nehemiah & Hannah to be equally Divided among them, Excepting out of the Share of my Daughter Hannah Standish fifty Shillings which I have already Given her, and also out of David Bozworth my grandson’s share thirty Shillings which I formerly gave him in an horse —

Lastly I do hereby nominate & appoint my Son Josiah Sturtevant Sole Executr to this my last Will & Testament— In Witness whereof I have hereunto Set my hand & Seal this 18th Day of March anno R2 Georgii 2di nouo Annoq. Domini one Thousand Seven hundred and thirty five –1735/6–  The Word, fifth, Interlined in two Places before Signing—

Signed Sealed & Declared by ye sd                                                                                  Samuel Sturtevant           (seal)

Samuel Sturtevant to be his last

Will & Testament In Presence

of us —  Jno Cotton

Abigail Waterman

          her

Mary  3  Ransom

         mark

 

Proved on 21 May 1736 by John Cotton, Abigail Waterman, and Mary Ransom, the witnesses.

 

Mr. Ignatius Cushing, Mr. James Bryant & Mr. Moses Cushman, all of Halifax, were appointed to appraise the estate of Deacon Samuel Sturtevant, late of Halifax, on 24 May 1736. The Inventory of the Personal Estate of Deacon Samuel Sturtevant, late of Halifax, dated 28 May 1736, totaled £96.3.2. Josiah Sturtevant, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 13 July 1736.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 7, pp. 200-201, 220-221, from FHL microfilm #0550513.

 

 

Will of Sarah Sturtevant of Middleborough, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1837) *

        I Sarah Sturtevant of Middleborough in the County of Plymouth and state of Massachusetts, Widow, Woman, being weak in body but of sound mind and memory, do make and publish this my last will and Testament, in manner & form as follows,    I give and bequeath unto my two daughters, Prissilla Blair and Fanny Sturtevant in equal shares between them the said Prissilla and Fanny, my cow, and also all my wearing apparel togather with all the rights title and interest in and to all the personal Estate which my beloved husband Thomas Sturtevant late of Middleborough deceased gave me in his last Will and Testament.

        And I do hereby appoint the above named Priscilla Blair and Fanny D. Sturtevant Joint Executors, of this my last Will and Testament and hereby revoking all former wills, by me made. In witness, whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this, 25th day of October in the year of Our Lord Eighteen hundred and thirty seven

                                                                                                                                                Sarah Sturtevant                              (seal)

        Signed, sealed Published and declared by the above named Sarah Sturtevant to be her last will and Testament in the presence of us who have hereunto subscribed our names as witnesses in the presence and at the request of the testator

        Samuel Thompson

        Lorin Bryant

        Clary S. Thompson

 

Probated on the last Tuesday of May 1839, and proved by Samuel Thompson and Lorin Bryant, two of the witnesses.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 81, p. 224-225, from FHL microfilm #0555266.

 

 

Will of Seth Sturtevant of Wareham, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1853) *

Be it remembered, that I Seth Sturtevant of Wareham in the County of Plymouth and Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Yeoman, do on this Eleventh day of June in the Year One thousand Eight hundred and Fifty three, make, publish and declare this my last Will and Testament in manner following (To Wit),

First. I give and bequeath to my Daughter Martha Burgess, wife of Henry Burgess, A legacy of Five hundred Dollars, and I also give and devise to the said Martha Burgess one undivided half part of the One hundred acre Wood lot I bought of the Administrator on the Estate of Deacon Barnabas Bates, lying in Wareham and bounded on the South end by the half mile line, to have and to hold the same with said legacy to the said Martha her Heirs and Assigns without the intervention of A trustee, to her and their sole and separate use forever, free from the interferance or controll of her Husband.

Second. I give and bequeath to my Granddaughter, Adaline Burgess, Two hundred Dollars.

Third. I give and bequeath to my Son in Law Henry Burgess all sums of money he owes me & Notes I hold against him.

Fourth. I give and bequeath to my Daughter, Sarah Sherman, Wife of Nathaniel Sherman A legacy of Five hundred Dollars. I also give and devise to the said Sarah Sherman A piece of Wood land containing ten Acres more or less and lying in Wareham, and bounded as follows, Beginning at the Rail Road Crossing of Muddy Cove Road, thence Westerly by the Rail Road to A Brook, thence down the Brook to A fence, and then by the fence to Muddy Cove Road, thence Easterly by Said Cove Road to first bound. Also a piece of fresh Meadow on the North side of said Rail Road containing about one half Acre, and adjoins Benjamin Hathaways Meadow, Also one undivided half part of the hundred Acre Wood lot I bought of the Administrator on the Estate of Deacon Barnabas Bates, lying in Wareham and bounded on the South end by the half mile line, to have and to hold the said real Estate with said legacy to the said Sarah Sherman her Heirs and Assigns, without the intervention of A Trustee, to her and their sole and separate use forever, free from the interferance and Controll of her Husband.

Fifth. I give and devise to my son in law Nathaniel Sherman all my part of the Wood lot I own in Company with Andrew Gibbs and Nathaniel Hamblin adjoining ceder pond in said Wareham, Also my lot of Wood land Containing ten acres more or less lying adjoining and South of Ceder pond to have and to hold the same to him the said Sherman his Heirs and Assigns forever. the above I give said Sherman in Consideration of services he has performed for me,

Sixth. I give and devise to my Son Seth Sturtevant the use and improvement of all the rest and residue of my Estate both real and personal (after the payment of my debts and legacies aforesaid, and funeral charges,) until he arives at the age of Twenty one years, or have lawful issue, and if my said Son arives at the age of Twenty one years or have lawful issue then I give and devise to my said Son Seth, all the rest and residue of my Estate, both real and personal to have and to hold the same to him his Heirs and Assigns forever. But should my said Son die before arriving at the age of Twenty one years, without lawful issue, then I give and devise, to my GrandSon Joseph H. Burgess, one fourth part of all the Estate which I have devised to my Son and I give and devise the other three fourths of said Estate to my GrandSons Hiram F. Sherman, Thomas P. Sherman, Joseph Sherman and Nathaniel Sherman Jr., to have and to hold the same to them their Heirs and Assigns forever.

Last. I do hereby appoint the said Nathaniel Sherman sole Executor of this my last will and testament.

In Witness whereof I the said Seth Sturtevant have hereunto set my hand and seal the day and Year above written,

                                                                                                            Seth Sturtevant                         (seal)

Signed, sealed, published and declared by the said Seth Sturtevant to be his last Will and Testament in the presence of us who at his request were Called as Witnesses to the same and in his presence & in the presence of each other, did subscribe our names as witnesses to the same.

Seth Miller Jr.

Joshua Besse

Abby Cole

 

Presented for probate on the third Monday of January 1856 by Nathaniel Sherman, the Executor therein named, and proved by Joshua Besse and Abby Cole, subscribing witnesses.

 

Nathaniel Sherman, Esquire, was appointed as Executor of the last Will and Testament of Seth Sturtevant, late of Wareham, yeoman, on 21 Jan. 1856, with Thomas Savery and Seth Miller Jr. as sureties.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Seth Sturtevant, late of Wareham, Yeoman, was appraised by James R. Sproat, Thomas Savery and Jonathan Gibbs on 25 Jan. 1856, totaled $15,367.94, including his homestead farm and all the woodlands valued at $6000, and several notes. Nathaniel Sherman, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on the last Tuesday of February 1856.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 98, p. 49-51, from FHL microfilm #0555643, Vol. 2H, p. 495, from FHL microfilm #0550507, and Vol. 98, p. 99-101, from FHL microfilm #0555643.

 

 

Will and Codicil of Dr. Thomas Sturtevant of Middleborough, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1835) *

        I Thomas Sturtevant of Middleborough in the County of Plymouth, calling to mind the mortality of man, and being of sound and disposing mind and memory, do make this my last Will and Testament, giving my Soul to God who gave it, and my body to the earth to be bury’d in a decent christian burial at the discretion of my Executor. And I dispose of my earthly estate in the following manner and form.

        I give to my beloved wife Sarah the use and improvement of one third part of my real estate, during her natural life – and I give her one Cow and one third part of my household furniture – this as her dower in my estate —

        I give to my said wife and daughters, excepting Sarah, all my provisions on hand at the time of my death.

        My Will is that my Executors collect all the debts due to me, and that they add that to my estate which I leave, except that which I have given to my wife, and out of the whole to pay all my just debts, funeral charges and the charges of settling the estate – and if necessary to make sale of real estate for such payments, such sale of real estate to be at public vendue; and they are authorized to make such sale, and make and execute a good and sufficient deed thereof or deeds without any license from any Court, giving the notice by law in such case required. And the residue of my estate I order them or him to dispose of as follows, viz, to be divided into seven equal parts, and here called seven shares. To give the children of my son Josiah, deceased, three quarters of a share to be equally divided between them, their heirs and assigns forever.

        I give to my daughter Priscilla Blare one share and one half of a share and one sixteenth of a share as aforesaid to her her heirs and assigns forever.

        I give to my daughter Fanny D. one share and one sixteenth part of a share aforesaid to her and her heirs and assigns forever: I also give to my daughter Fanny D. three quarters and one sixteenth parts of a share as aforesaid for the following purpose, that is for the use and benefit of my son George to be delivered to him at such times and in such quantity as her discretion shall dictate to her, her heirs and assigns forever.

        I give to my son George Sturtevant one share as aforesaid for the following purpose, that is for the use and benefit of my son Croad Sturtevant, to be delivered to him at such times and in such quantities as his discretion shall dictate, to him his heirs and assigns forever.

        I give to my daughter Sarah Cushman, the wife of Zenas Cushman, three quarters of a share as aforesaid, to be set off in land (and this is with what she has heretofore had) to her, her heirs and assigns forever.

        I give to my son William H. Sturtevant three quarters and one sixteenth parts of a share as aforesaid for the following purpose – to the use and for the exclusive benefit of his children or the children of the aforesaid William H. Sturtevant their heirs and assigns forever.

        I give to my grandson Thomas, the son of Josiah, one sixteenth part of a share aforesaid, to him and his heirs forever.

        I give to my grand-daughter, Mary Ann, the wife of Nelson Sheperd one sixteenth part of a share aforesaid, to her, and her heirs and assigns forever.

        I give to my grand-daughter Saba Adams, the wife of Doctr William W Comstock one sixteenth part aforesaid of one share aforesaid, to her, her heirs and, assigns forever.

        I also give to my daughter Sarah, the wife of Zenas Cushman one sixteenth part of a share aforesaid in land to her, her heirs and assigns forever.

If my sons George or Croade should die before the portion assigned for their support is expended, without issue, I direct that the remainder should be equally divided between my wife, my sons and daughters. And I do hereby authorise and require my said son George and my daughter Fanny D to keep by them a last Will and Testament – and do authorise them by their said Will to appoint some suitable person or persons to take the trust which by this Will is given to them: And I revoke all other Wills made before by me – and establish this my last Will and Testament, Appointing Samuel Thomson Esqr. my sole Executor hereof –

        And it is my Will that if any one herein named shall bring any account prior to this date, they relinquish all their legacy herein contained, that is, if they bring the aforesaid account against this estate.

        In Testimony of which I do hereunto set my hand and seal –

Middleborough February the tenth day one thousand eight hundred & thirty five.

                                                                                                                                                Thomas Sturtevant                          (seal)

        The foregoing Instrument, signed and sealed by Thomas Sturtevant, was signed, sealed, published and declared by the said Thomas Sturtevant as and for his last Will and Testament in our presence and hearing, who at his request and in his presence set our hands

                                                                                                                                                Wilkes Wood

                                                                                                                                                Joseph T. Wood

                                                                                                                                                Mary T. Wood

 

        I Thomas Sturtevant the Testator of the above and foregoing Will and Testament, now being of sound and disposing mind and memory, have deemed it proper to make some alteration in the form and manner of the two devises in my said Will to my daughter Sarah Cushman – that instead of the said devises being made directly to my said daughter they are hereby made to Zenas Cushman Jr and Noah Cushman, her sons, in trust, and to their successors, and for the use and benefit of my said daughter during the term of her natural life: And whatever of said devises shall remain at the time of her decease, to her heirs and their assigns forever: And it is my Will and direction that this alteration and addition shall be taken and deemed as a Codicil to my Will aforesaid, and as a part of the same: And that said Will in all other respects remain valid as at first, and as if this alteration had not been made.  Witness my hand and seal this thirteenth day of January, in the year 1836.

                                                                                                                                                Thomas Sturtevant                          (seal)

        Signed, sealed, published and declared by the aforesaid testator to be a part of his last Will and Testament in our presence, who do hereto subscribe at his request.

        Lucy C. Wood

        Wm H. Wood

        Wilkes Wood

 

Presented for probate on 20 Feb. 1837 by Samuel Thompson, the Executor therein named, with a Codicil thereto annexed, and proved by Mary T. Wood, one of the witnesses to the Will, and by Lucy C. Wood, one of the witnesses to the Codicil. Letters Testamentary were granted to Samuel Thompson, the Executor therein named.

 

The Inventory and appraisement of the Estate of Dr Thomas Sturtevant late of Middleborough, not dated, was appraised by Earl Sprout, Alfred Wood, and [___] Caswell, his real estate totaled $3573, and his personal estate totaled $548.89. Samuel Thompson, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 20 Feb. 1837.

 

Samuel Thompson, of Middleborough, was granted administration with the will annexed of the estate of Thomas Sturtevant, late of Middleborough, Physician,  on 20 Feb. 1837, with Earl Sproat and Albert Thomas, both of Middleborough, as sureties.

 

Earl Sproat, Alfred Wood, and Salmon Caswell were appointed to divide the real estate of Thomas Sturtevant, late of Middleborough, among his heirs: to Priscilla Blair, 25/112th parts, to Fanny Sturtevant, 17/112th parts, and Fanny Sturtevant in trust for George Sturtevant, 13/112th parts, to the children of William H. Sturtevant 13/112th parts, to the children of Josiah Sturtevant 12/112th parts, and to Thomas Sturtevant, son of Josiah Sturtevant, 1/112th part, to George Sturtevant in trust for Croad Sturtevant 16/112th parts, to Bradford Harlow in trust for Sarah Cushman 13/112th parts, and to Saba Adams Cumstock the wife of Dr. William H. Cumstock and to Mary Ann Shepherd, wife of Nelson Shepherd, no real estate but an equivalent amount in money to be paid by the other heirs who have received more than their just proportion and share of real estate. The division was dated 1 May 1839, and approved on the second Monday of Aug. 1840.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 79, p. 49-53, from FHL microfilm #0555265, Vol. 1G, p. 27, and Vol. 82, p. 276-278.

 

 

Will of William Sturtevant of Plymouth, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1819) *

I William Sturtevant of Plymouth in the County of Plymouth do make this Instrument to be my last Will and Testament—

        Item 1st. I give to my beloved Wife Sarah Sturtevant, the use Income & Benefit of my Dwelling house & Lot, wherein I now live & all my Land adjoining the same together with all my household Furniture Bed & Bedding during her Life time. I also give her, the Income benefit & Interest of fifty eight Shares of my Stock in the Plymouth Bank in Plymouth & eighty Shares of my Stock in the State Bank in Boston during her Life time —

        Item 2d. I give to my Grandson Thomas Lobdell & Son of Thomas J Lobdell eighty Shares of my Stock in the State Bank in Boston, & a certain Note of hand signed by James Bryant & endorsed by Saml. Davis & Co. dated Boston June 1st. 1818 for the Security of which Notes, I hold an Assignment from the said Saml. Davis & Co. of a Mortgage of a Wharf in Charlestown, mortgaged to the said Saml. Davis & Co by the said James Bryant I also give him a certain demand for Cash & Sundries which I have against Thomas J Lobdell amounting to four hundred Dollars & for which I have the receipt of the said Thomas J Lobdell dated September 15th. 1819.—The aforesaid Thomas Lobdell Son of Thomas J Lobdell is to come in possession of the said eighty Bank Shares at the decease of my Wife, provided however, the said Thomas shall then have arrived to the age of twenty one years; should he not then have arrived at that Age, at the decease of my Wife, the profit benefit & Interest of the said Bank Stock, is to go to my Son William & my three Daughters Jane, Sarah, & Rebecca, untill the said Thomas shall have arrived to the Age of twenty one years. The said Notes and Assignment & the demand for four hundred Dollars he is to come in possession of immediately after my decease –

        Should the said Thomas decease before he comes in possession of said property or any part thereof it is to revert back to my Heirs & to be divided equally between my Son William and my three Daughters Jane, Sarah & Rebecca.—

        Item 3d. I give eighteen hundred Dollars to my Son William, the Object of my giving him this, more than I give my Daughters in principally for his Education. I also give him my small Gold Watch. –

        Item 4 The Residue of my property not herein before disposed of, or only in part, or for a time disposed of, I give to my Son William & to my three Daughters, Jane, Sarah & Rebecca to be divided equally between them, they paying all my just debts & to support my Ward Betsey Sturtevant of Middleborough a non compos.—

        I do hereby appoint Isaac E. Cobb of Plymouth Guardian of my Son William –

        I also appoint William P. Ripley & Isaac E Cobb both of Plymouth Executors to this my last Will & Testament —

        And I hereby invest the said William P. Ripley & Isaac E Cobb with power in case of the Failure of the State or Plymouth Bank, or in case either of the said Banks should give up their Charter, & in case any of my United States Stock should be paid or in any other case that may make it necessary, to dispose of any of my Stocks or other property and invest, the same in other Stocks or other property as they may judge best,– Always keeping separate & by itself the Bank Stock, which I have given to my Wife & to my Grandchild–

        I have given this Liberty to my Executors, as it perhaps, may not be best to make a full Settlement, while my Children are Young, & incapable of taking care of it —

        All my real Estate excepting my house which I have given my Wife, I wish to have sold as soon as possible ~

        In Testimony whereof I the said Wm. Sturtevant have hereunto set my hand & Seal, this thirtieth day of October one thousand eight hundred & nineteen, signed sealed & declared to be his last Will & Testament in presence of us. And I Sarah Sturtevant Wife of said William Sturtevant agree to abide by & accept this Will —

Rosseter Cotton

Lemuel Simmons                                                                                                                Willm. Sturtevant                              (seal)

William Rogers

Isaac E Cobb                                                                                                                        Sarah Sturtevant

 

Presented for probate on 20 Dec. 1819 by William P. Ripley and Isaac E Cobb, the Executors therein named, and proved by Rosseter Cotton Esqr. and Lemuel Simmons, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to William P. Ripley and Isaac E Cobb, the before named Executors.

 

Rosseter Cotton, Esqr., William Brown and Lemuel Brown, Gentlemen, all of Plymouth, were appointed to appraise the Estate of William Sturtevant, late of Plymouth, Esquire, on 20 Dec. 1819. The Inventory of the Estate of William Sturtevant, late of Plymouth, dated 27 Dec. 1819, totaled $9665.00, including his dwelling house and lot of land valued at $2500, his undivided third part of a Wharf and two stores standing thereon valued at $2000, and four shares in the Plympton Woollen Factory valued at $4000. William P Ripley and Isaac Cobb, the Executors, gave their oath to the inventory on 25 Dec. 1819.

 

Zabdiel Sampson and Rosseter Cotton Esqrs, and Henry Jackson, Blacksmith, all of Plymouth, were appointed to divide the personal estate of William Sturtevant, late of Plymouth, after deducting the specific legacies given in the will, among his son William and his three daughters Jane, Sarah and Rebecca W, on 19 Mar. 1821. The total amounted to $55,791.05, less specific legacies of $16,000, left a balance of $39,791.05 to be divided equally between William Sturtevant, Jane Sturtevant, Sarah Sturtevant and Rebecca W Sturtevant, each receiving $9947.76¼. The division was dated 10 Apr. 1821. The specific legacies were to the widow Sarah Sturtevant $10,800, to Thomas Lobdell, son of Thomas J Lobdell, $3400, and to William Sturtevant $1800.

 

Charles G. Davis, of Plymouth, was appointed as Administrator with the will annexed of the Estate not already administered of William Sturtevant, late of Plymouth, the appointed executors having since died without having fully executing said will, on 30 Dec. 1886, with Charles S. Davis and Zilpha H. Spooner, widow, of Plymouth, as sureties.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 50, pp. 449-451, 483, from FHL microfilm #0550906, Vol. 53, p. 359-361, and Vol. 157, p. 103.

 

 

Will of John Swift of Plymouth, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1829) *

                                                                                                In the name of God Amen. I John Swift of Plymouth in the County of Plymouth Yeoman considering the uncertainty of life & being of sound and perfect mind and memory do make and publish this my last will and testament hereby revoking all former wills by me at any time heretofore made.

                                                                                                I give devise and bequeath to my wife Elizabeth Swift the improvement of one half part of the real estate of which I may die seized, while she shall remain my widow, except that part thereof which is herein given to my daughter Betsey Maynard, to my son John and to my daughter Susanna Thrasher. And my will and direction is that my son Joshua shall improve that part of my real estate the improvement of which I have given to my said wife and account with his Mother for the proceeds thereof, so that she may have a comfortable maintenance. I also give to my said wife the use of all the furniture and moveables in my house at the time of my decease.

                                                                                                I give & bequeath to my son John ten dollars & the improvement of a quarter of an acre of land where his house stands, & South of the same during his life & I give & devise the said land after the decease of my said son to my Grandson John Swift 3d son of my said son John, to hold the same to him his heirs & assigns.

                                                                                                I give & bequeath to my son Joseph ten dollars.

                                                                                                I give & bequeath to my grandchildren Jabez Swift, Bartlett Swift & Deborah Swift children of my deceased son Jabez five dollars each payable when they shall severally arrive at the age of twenty one years.

                                                                                                I give & bequeath to my daughter Jane wife of Josiah Gibbs ten dollars.

                                                                                                I give and bequeath to my daughter Patience wife of Thomas Maxim, ten dollars. –

                                                                                                I give, devise & bequeath to my daughter Susanna wife of David Thrasher her her heirs & assigns a lot of land where said Thrashers house stands bounded as follows beginning at the Southerly corner of said house thence running Southerly by the main road eighteen feet, thence Easterly to an old dam from which the family in said house take their water, thence Northerly and Westerly down the westerly side of the brook until it comes to a bridge in the road, then running Southerly and Westerly by the road to the bounds first mentioned.

                                                                                                I give devise & bequeath to my daughter Betsey widow of Solomon Maynard her heirs & assigns a ten acre wood lot on the Country road to Sandwich, extending from said road to the brook & bounded Northerly by land formerly of Ezra Harlow deceased and Southerly by land of Ezekiel Rider. I also give and devise to my said daughter Betsey so long as she shall remain a widow the use and improvement of the South end of my dwelling house being that part which I have recently added to the old house; also all the moveables in my said house after the decease of her mother. Provided however that my said daughter shall relinquish all claim on my estate for any services she may have rendered previous to my decease. I also give & bequeath to my said daughter Betsey Maynard the sum of one hundred dollars.

                                                                                                As I have above provided that my wife shall have the improvement of one half of my real estate during her widowhood and as some question may arise as to her right to improve the wood lands of which I may die seized, I hereby direct & my will is that my said wife shall have no further improvement of said woodlands than may be necessary for the support of a fire and I hereby direct my son Joshua at his own expense to cut and cart to her door so much wood as may be necessary for that purpose. –

                                                                                                I give devise & bequeath to my son Joshua Swift his heirs and assigns, that part of my real estate the improvement of which is herein given to his mother, subject however to her improvement as aforesaid during her widow hood, and also that part of my real estate the improvement of which is herein given to my daughter Betsey Maynard, subject however to her improvement during her widow hood. I also give, devise and bequeath to my said son Joshua his heirs and assigns all the rest, residue & remainder of my real estate wherever the same may be and all my personal estate, except what is above given and bequeathed: Provided however that my said son Joshua shall pay my funeral charges & all debts which may be due from me at the time of my decease & also all other legacies which are above given to my children and Grandchildren. The said legacies except those given to the children of my deceased son Jabez to be paid one half in one year and one half in two years from the time of my decease. And I hereby appoint my said son Joshua Swift sole executor of this my last will and testament.

                                                                                                In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this twelfth day of September in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and twenty nine.

                                                                                                                                                John Swift                                           (seal)

signed, sealed, published

& declared by the above-

named John Swift to be

his last will and testament

in the presence of us who

at his request and in his

presence have hereunto

subscribed our names as

witnesses to the same

        Coomer Weston

        Thomas Davis

        Nathl M Davis

 

Presented for probate on 8 Aug. 1836, and proved by Coomer Weston and Nathaniel M. Davis, two of the witnesses.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 78, p. 340-342, with corrections from Plymouth County Probate Docket #19896.

 

 

Will of Joshua Swift of Plymouth, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1776) *

In the Name of God Amen. I Joshua Swift of Plymouth in the County of Plymouth in New England Yeoman being Sick & weak of Body but Sound & disposing Mind and Memory do make & ordain this to be my last Will & Testament –

First of all I give my Soul to God that gave it hoping through the Merrits of the perfect Righteousness of Christ to find Acceptance with God. My Body I comit to the Dust to be decently buried by the discretion of my Executor hereafter Named nothing Doubting but the same Shall be raised again at the last Day. And as to my Earthly Substance God has bless me with all I give & dispose of as followeth ~

First I give to my dear & loving Wife Jane Swift the whole Use & Improvment of the Whole of my Estate Real & Personal to her free Use and Improvment after my Just Debts & Funeral Charges is paid by my Executor.

2. I give to my Son John Swift that End of my Dwelling House that John Swift now Dwells in and the remainder of the House that is the one half I give to my Son Joshua Swift only reserving to my four Daughters Lusannah Joanna Mercy & Rebecah each of them free liberty to dwell in that part of my House that is given to my Son Joshua so long as they shall live unmarried –

3. I give to my three Sons Joseph John & Joshua Swift the whole of my Estate Real & Personal after my Wifes decease to be divided Equally among them all Excepting the Moveables in the House those to be give to my four Daughters Lusannah Joanna, Mercy & Rebeccah to be divided Equally among them ~

4  I likewise give to my Son Joshua Six Pounds Lawfull Money to be paid by my Executors two years after my Three Sons come in possession of Said Estate

5  I likewise give to my Six Daughters each of them Sixteen Pounds Lawfull Money to make them equal alike with what Abigail Cornish & Jane Rider hath already Received of their parts to make my Daughters Lusannah Joannah Mercy & Rebeccah all equal Sixteen Pounds a Peice to be paid by my Executor two Years after my three Sons Joseph John & Joshua come in possession of Sd. Estate ~

6  I likewise give to my beloved Wife my Indian Servant to her Proper Use & disposal & I do hereby constitute & appoint my dear Wife and my Son John Swift to be my Sole Executors to this my last Will and Testament hereby revoking all other or former Wills by me made declaring this to be my last Will & Testament  In Witness whereof I have hereunto Set my Hand & Seal This Ninth Day of March Anno Domini one Thousand Seven Hundred & Seventy Six

Signed Sealed & ddd. Published

& declared In presence of Us                                                                                            Joshua Swift                      (seal)

Soloman Holmes

Ebenr. Bartlet

Stephen Doty Junr.

 

Presented for probate on 7 Apr. 1777 by Jane Swift and John Swift, the Executors therein named, and proved by Soloman Holmes, Ebenezar Bartlet, and Stephen Doty Junr., the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Jane Swift and John Swift, the Executors.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Joshua Swift, late of Plymouth, was appraised by Jeremiah Holmes, Seth Morton, and Stephen Doty Junr., not dated, but totaled £593.9.5, including his homestead farm and buildings valued at £400. The appraisers gave their oath to the inventory on 3 Nov. 1777, and John Swift, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory at the same time.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 24, pp. 253-254, 433-434, from FHL microfilm #0550713.

 

 

Will of William Swift of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1830) *

                Be it remembered, That I William Swift of Bridgewater in the County of Plymouth, yeoman, calling to mind the uncertainty of life, and being this, the blessing of God, of sound disposing mind and memory, do this 26th day of May A.D. 1830 make and declare this as my last will and Testament, and do hereby dispose of my worldly interest in the following manner Viz. I give and bequeath to my Nephew, Isam Leonard the sum of Six hundred Dollars payable in twelve months after my decease by my Executor hereafter named, and the residue of all the real and personal Estate which I may die seized of I give, devise and bequeath to my nephew, Martin Swift, his heirs and assigns forever, subject to the payment of all my debts and the Legacy aforesaid. And I do hereby constitute and appoint the said Martin Swift Sole Executor of this my last will and Testament

                In testamony whereof I do hereunto set my hand & seal the day and year first above written

                                                                                                                                                William Swift                                     (seal)

                Signed, Sealed published and declared by the said Wm Swift as his last Will and Testament, in presence of us who at his request, and in his presence have hereunto set our names as witnesses

                Nathan Mitchell

                Asa Pratt

                Seth Pratt

 

Presented for probate on the first Tuesday of July 1839 by Martin Swift, the Executor, and proved by Nathan Mitchell and Seth Pratt, two of the witnesses.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 81, p. 396-397, from FHL microfilm #0555266.

 

 

Will of Elisha Sylvester of Scituate, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1747) *

                                                In the Name of God Amen,

The twenty ninth day of june in the year of our Lord one thousand, seven hundred & fortyseven, I Elisha Sylvester of Scituate in the county of Plymouth in New-England yeoman, being of sound memory, and calling to mind my mortality do make & ordain this my Last will & testament, in manner following; Principally & first of all I recommend my soul to God that gave it and my body to the earth to a decent burial at the discretion of my executrix hereafternamed and touching such worldly goods & estate as God hath favoured me, I give bequeath & dispose of the same in manner following, after my just debts & funeral charges are paid.

Imprimis, I give unto my beloved wife Eunice Sylvester the whole improvement of all my personal estate within doors & without, of what nature or kind soever, during her natural Life, and the whole improvement of all my real estate until my youngest son James Sylvester shall come to the age of fourteen years, and then I give unto my said wife, the improvement of one third of my real estate during her natural life. ~

Item. I give unto my two sons, that is to say unto Elisha Sylvester & James Sylvester all my Lands or real estate lying & being in Scituate of elsewhere. two thirds of the said Lands to be divided between them, when the eldest son being Elisha, shall come to the age of twenty one years, and the other third of the sd. lands to be divided between my sd. two sons Elisha & James after my said wife,s decease. ~

Lastly, I do hereby nominate & appoint my wel-beloved wife Eunice Sylvester to be the sole executrix of this my Last will & testament. In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand & seal the day & year first above written.                                                                                                               his

                                                                                                                                                Elisha  X  Sylvester                             (seal)

Signed, sealed, published, & declared by the                                                                       mark

said Elisha Sylvester to be his last will & testament in presence of us~

   James Cushing, Joshua Donham, Martha Sylvester.

 

Presented for probate on 6 Dec. 1767 by Eunice Sylvester, the executrix therein named, and proved by Martha Prouty, formerly Martha Sylvester, one of the witnesses thereto subscribed, James Cushing being since deceased, and Joshua Donham being out of the province. Letters of Administration were granted to Eunice Sylvester, the before named executrix.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

David Jacobs of Hanover, Gentm., Nathl. Brooks and James Jacobs, both of Scituate, yeomen, were appointed to set off to Eunice, the widow of Elisha Sylvester, her dower or thirds in the real estate of Elisha Sylvester, late of Scituate, on 4 April. 1781.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 19, p. 525-526, from FHL microfilm #0550711, and Vol. 28, p. 89-90.

 

 

Will of Israel Sylvester of Scituate, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1726) *

In the Name of God Amen: This nineteenth Day of Aprill in ye. year of our Lord one Thousand Seven Hundred & twenty six: I Israell Sylvester of Scittuate in ye. County of Plymouth In New: England yeoman: Being aged & weak in Body but of Sound & Perfect mind & memory thanks be given to God for ye. same ( and knowing & Calling to mind ye. uncertainty & mortality of this Life here on Earth: and being desirous to Settle my Estate in order, before my death, Do make this my Last Will & Testament in manner & forme following) That is to Say Principally & first of all I Comitt & Recomend my Soul to Almighty God that gave it, & my Body to ye Earth from whence it was taken, To be Buried in Such Decent manner, as to my Executor here after named Shall be thought meat & Convenient, and as touching Such worldly Estate as ye. Lord in mercy hath Lent me, my will & meaning is that ye. same Shall be Imployed, Improved and Bestowed & disposed of as here after in this my Last Will & Testament is Expressed: and first of all I do hereby Revoke & make void all other & former Will or Wills by me heretofore or formally made Either by word or in writing & this only to be taken for my Last Will and Testament: Item, I give & Bequeath to Martha my Well beloved Wife ye. whole & Sole use & Improvement of ye. Southerly End of my now dwelling House together with a Priviledge in my Chamber Cellar & Garden during Her natural Life only my Daughter Silence Sylvester Shall have ye. Liberty of Living in ye Said House with Her mother during ye. Life of Her Mother, and also I give to my sd. Wife Eight Bushels of Corne a year & two bushels of malt & also ye. use & Improvement of one neat milck Cow yearly & Every year to give Her milke to be kept Where I now dwell with Winter & Sumer meat and also one Pigg to be Provided Every year in the Spring & kept at Her Door untill ye. Fall & fatted fit to kill & So Every year & Sufficient Beef for Her use, together with Sufficient & Convenient Fire Wood Cutt Carried Carted & Laid att Her Door as She Shall need ye. same yearly, and also I give to my sd. Wife ye. use & Improvement of So much of my household goods att Her Choice as She Shall think Convenient to keep House with all during Her Natural Life, and as Touching ye. Eight bushels of Corn my Will is that it Shall be five of it Indian & two of it Rye & one of it wheat and my will & meaning is that all ye. Gifts & yearly fallerys[?] above given to my sd. Wife Shall be Provided delivered & Paid to my Sd wife yearly by my Executor hereafter named during ye. natural Life of my Sd. Wife only ye. Household goods & them after ye. decease of my sd. Wife to Return to my Son Elisha Sylvester & to be His Estate. Item: I give & Bequeath to my daughter Silence Sylvester Twenty Pounds in money to be Paid by my Executor hereafter named within two years after my decease, and also I give to my sd. daughter Silence Sylvester one feather Bed & furniture belonging to it out of my moveable Estate. Item. I give to my Grandson Israel Sylvester Ten Shillings in money to be Paid by my Executor hereafter named. Item: I give to my Granddaughter Lydiah Rose fourty Shillings in money to be Paid by my Executor hereafter named within two years after my decease

Item. I give to my Grand daughter Hannah Dammon Twenty Shillings in money to be Paid by my Executor hereafter named within Two years after my decease. Item, I give to my Daughter Lois Stoddard four Pounds in money to be Paid by my Executor named within two years after my decease; Item, I give to my daughter Mary Stoddard four Pounds in money to be Paid by my Executor her after named within two years after my decease; Item, I give & Bequeath to my Son Richard Sylvester Twenty Shillings in money to be Paid by my Executor hereafter named within two years after my Decease. Item, I further give & Bequeath to my Sd. Son Richard Sylvester one Lott of Land Lying in the Township of Marshfield that was granted to me by ye. Said Town of Marshfield To Him His Heirs & assignes for Ever: I having given him before by Deeds. Item: I give & Bequeath to my Son Peter Sylvester fourty Shillings in money to be Paid by my Executor hereafter named within two years after my decease and also I give & Bequeath to my Sd. Son Peter Sylvester one Lott of Land Lying in ye. Township of Marshfield & was granted to me by ye. sd. Town of Marshfield to Him ye. Sd. Peter Sylvester His Heirs & assignes for Ever: Item, I give to my Son Zebulon Sylvester fourty Shillings in money to be Paid by my Executor hereafter named within two years after my Decease, and also I give & Bequeath to my sd. Son Zebulon one of my Lotts of Land Lying in Pembrooke that was granted to me by ye. Town of Marshfield to Him His Heirs & assignes for Ever. Item, I give & Bequeath my other to my three Sons, Peter Sylvester, Elisha Sylvester & Zebulon Sylvester all my Rights, Shares & Interest in The Proprietors or Comon Lands in ye. Township of Scittuate that now is or Shall be due or belonging to me, To them their Heirs & assignes for Ever to be Equally divided among them both for Quantity & Quality to Each of them a Share a like. Item, I give & Bequeath to my sd. Son Elisha Sylvester all that my Lott of meadow lying in ye. Township of Marshfield adjoyning to ye. meadow of Joseph Hatch to Him ye. sd. Elisha Sylvester his Heirs & assignes for Ever & also I give & Bequeath to my sd. Son Elisha Sylvester all that my three acres of Land which I bought of Job Otis & lyeth in Scittuate aforesd by ye. Land of Solomon Linkhorn to Him ye. sd. Elisha Sylvester His Heirs & assignes for Ever, together with my other Lott of Land lying in Pembrooke that was granted to me by ye. Town of Marshfield to Him His Heirs & assignes for Ever. and further I give & Bequeath to my Son Elisha Sylvester all my Household goods utensils & all my Stock & all ye. Remainder of my Estate of what kind or nature SoEver that is not above disposed of in this my Last Will He Paying ye. Legacys above mentioned as they are above Expressed & Sett down & Paying yearly & Providing for my Sd. Wife as is above Expressed & Sett Down, and further I do by this my Last Will & Testament Constitute ordain & appoint my well beloved Son Elisha Sylvester to be Sole Executor to this my Last will & Testament.

In Testimony Where of I ye sd. Israel Sylvester have hereunto Sett my Hand & Seal ye day & year above written.

Signed Sealed & Declared                                                                                                                                 his

by ye. sd. Israel Sylvester                                                                                                                         Israel   ł   Sylvester                        (seal)

to be His Last Will & Testament                                                                                                                     Marke

In ye. Presence of us

John James

John James Junr.

Joseph Bryant

 

Probated on 3 Apr. 1727, and proved by John James, John James Junr. & Joseph Bryant, all of Scittuate. Letters of Administration were granted to Elisha Sylvester, one of ye Sons of ye. sd. deceased and Sole Executor, on 25 Apr.. 1727.

 

The Inventory of the estate of Mr. Israel Sylvester, late of Scittuate, was appraised by Thomas Bryant, Solomon Lyncoln, & Timothy Symmes, and totaled £242.19.6. The appraisers gave their oath to the inventory on 1 May 1727. Elisha Sylvester, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory also on 1 May 1727.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 5, p. 253-256, from FHL microfilm #0550511.

 

 

Will of Reuben Sylvester of Halifax, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1848) *

        In the name of God Amen I Reuben Sylvester of Halifax in the County of Plymouth Commonwealth of Massachusetts being of sound & perfect mind and memory considering the uncertainty of this mortal life, make and ordain this last will and testament, that is to say first of all I give and commend my soul to God that gave it hoping through the merits of his son Jesus Christ Eternal Life – My body I commit to the earth to be decently buried at the discretion of my Executor, and with respect to my worldly estate which God has given me in this life I give and dispose and devise in manner following, that is to say, all my just debts to be punctually paid by my Executor

        Having been called part with my wife by the stroke of death

1st I give and bequeath to my beloved daughter Mercy T. Sylvester one hundred and fifty Dollars, the use of the West chamber in my house while she continues unmarried, which I think with fifty Dollars I gave her in the Savings Bank at Plymouth and what I have paid her yearly will be just and right.

2d I give and bequeath to my beloved daughter Almira Duings one hundred Dollars. –

3d I give and bequeath to my beloved daughter Susanna Googins one hundred Dollars

4 I give and bequeath to American Missionary Society for the aid of some Church under its care, Twenty five Dollars to be paid to the Secretary of said Society by my Executor; all the bequests herein named to be paid by my Executor, one half in one year, the other in 2½ years from my decease. –

Lastly I give and bequeath to my only son Joseph Sylvester all the remainder of my real and personal estate of whatever name or nature after the payments of my just debts charges and legacies above named whether in Halifax or Plympton, premising that the household furniture Beds & bed clothes be divided equally between Mercy, Almira and Susanna, except one bed and clothes sufficient for it and the Desk that that was his grandfathers and I do hereby constitute and appoint my said son J Sylvester executor of this my last will and testament –

In testimony whereof I the said Reuben Sylvester have hereunto set my hand & Seal sixth day of July in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and forty eight

Signed sealed and delivered in presence                                                                         Reuben Sylvester                             (seal)

of us       Zenas Bryant

                James M. Harrub

                Judith L Bryant

 

Presented for probate on the first Tuesday of Oct. 1850 by Joseph Sylvester, the Executor therein named, and proved by Zenas Bryant and Judith L Bryant, two of the witnesses whose names are subscribed thereto. Letters Testamentary were granted to Joseph Sylvester, the Executor.

 

Joseph Sylvester, of Halifax, was appointed as Executor of the last Will and Testament of Reuben Sylvester, late of Halifax, on 1 Oct. 1850, with Thomas Holmes and Darius Holmes, both of Halifax, as sureties.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

Benjamin H. Dewing, Almira Dewing, Philip C. Googins, Susanna Googins, and Mercy T. Sylvester gave their receipt to Joseph Sylvester, Executor of the last Will and Testament of Reuben Sylvester, late of Halifax, for their legacies and household furniture from the estate of Reuben Sylvester on 4 Aug. 1852.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 92, p. 409-410, from FHL microfilm #0555640, Vol. 1G, p. 519, and Vol. 97, p. 313.

 

 

Will of Jacob Taber of Dartmouth, County of Bristol, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1763) *

This Fourth day of January AD. One Thousand Seven Hundred and Sixty Three I Jacob Taber of Dartmouth in the County of Bristol in the Province of ye. Massachusetts Bay in New England Yeoman being in Resoneable Bodily Heath & of a sound desposing Mind & Memory (For which I desire To be Thankfull:) Considering the uncertainty of this Life thoght good to settle my Estate by Making this my Last will and Testament: And as to my worldly Estate where with it hath Pleasd. God to Bless me in this Life I give devise & despose of ye. same in the Following Manner & Form (viz)

Imprimis I Give to Sarah My Loving Wife ye: use and Improvment of my Great room and Chamber above it: With ye: Two Closets opposing Into said rooms; With ye. use and Improvment of ye. Little Inclosure where my well is: With ye. priveledge of passing & repassing to and From Each and Every part above Mentioned; Together with ye: use of Six of my apple trees she to take her Choice yearly in my orchard When ye. Fruit is on ye. Trees: All ye: Above Mentioned priveledge I give to my said wife during ye. time she remains my widdow: I Likwise Give to my said wife: The one half of all my Indoor Moveables of what Name or Nature soever they may be (Except my Cask and Tubs I keep Grain in) To be at her own disposing Forever All ye. above said Gifts and Improvments Given to my said wife Together with what I shall order To be paid and performd, For her yearly in this my will is in Liu of her right of dower in my Estate~

Item: I Give and and Bequeath to my Son Stephen Taber and to his Heirs and assigns For Ever; All My right Title and Interest of in and to a Lot of Land which was Laid out Formerly to my Father at a place Calld, Squins Country all which I Give to my said son Stephen as above Exprest Besids what I have Alredy Given him before ye: date of this my will

Item: I Give and Bequeath To my Son Bartholomew Taber and to his Heirs and assigns Forever All that part of my Homstead Lying to ye. westward of ye. way that Leads From Thomas Nyes To Elnathan Popes: with all the Meadow adjoining at ye. Foot There of: with ye. buildings standing Thereon (Except ye. use and Improvement To my wife as above Exprest and ye. use of one row of Apple Trees For ye: Space of seven years as will in this my will be other ways desposed of for & during that term) I Likewise Give to my Said Son Bartholomew the wood Lot which I Boght of William Michel: Together with one Fether Bed: To be that which he Commonly Lodges upon: with ye. Common Winter Furniture to the Same Belonging: Together with all my Live Stock of what sort foever: Together with all my Utencials Commonly used in Farming work: And all my Cask and Tubs which I Commonly use to put Grain in: All which I Give to my said Son Bartholomew as above Exprest he paying and performing to and For his Mother my wife yearly as here after Mentioned that is to say: Five pounds Lawfull Money: Twelve Bushels of Good Indian Corn and three Bushels of rye: one Quarter of Good Beaf To be the Hinder Quarter Quarter with the Kidney Tallow there to belonging: And to Be in wate Not Less then Ninty lb: And one Swine when Fatted and well Drest Not Less then one hundred and Forty lb wate: Fourteen lb of Sheeps woll: And Ten Coard of Good wood at ye. door of my Now dwelling House of a Suteable Length For her Chimney provided she wants it for her own Fire: And Find and provide For her two Good Cows and a Riding Beast with Good keeping For all three Both winter and summer: And pay and perform all and Every article above Mentioned yearly during the time she remains my widdow: And pays To my Daughters Jerusha: & Lois Each the sum of Five pounds Ten Shillings within Five years Next after my decease: And Five pounds Ten Shillings To the Children of my daughter Eunice deceased To be Equaly divided among them within Five years Next after my decease

Item I Give and Bequeath To my Son Jacob Taber and to his Heirs and assigns Forever all that my Lot of Land Lying on the westerly Side of that Calld Hathaways Ceder Swamp: Together with all that my Lot of Land Lying Nere or Adjoyning To the brook Called deep brook which said brook runs into that Calld Accoshanut River; Together with my Lot of Ceder Swamp at a place Called the old Caskill way which Lot runs Acrosst That Calld the Hom=Cock Island: Together with the use and Improvment of that Row of Apple Trees on the westerly side, of the wall That is on the westerly side of saidway: And to the southward of the Lain which Turns up to my house: For the Space of Seven years Next after my decease

Item: I Give and Bequeath To my above said three Sons Stephen Bartholomew and Jacob And To their Heirs and Assigns Forever All the remaining Part of my Homstead which is Not above in this my will Alredy desposed of: To be Equaly divided among them both For Quantity and Quallity: But my will is That Each of my said Three Sons Their Heirs and assigns shall Forever have the Priveledge of Passing and repassing as ocation may require acrost Each others part there of by Gates or barrs

Item: All my right title Interest Claim and demand which I have or ought to have of in or to any real Estate whatsoever or wheresoever: Which is Not above in this my will alredy desposed of I Give to my above said Son Bartholomew and To his Heirs and Assigns Forever

Item: I Give To my Two daughters Lois and Jerusha one third part of all my Indoor Moveables To be Equaly divided betwixt them Tubs and Cask To put Grain in Excepted

Item I Give To the Children of my daughter Eunice deceased one Sixth part of all my Indoor Moveables To be Equaly divided among them Cask and Tubs To put Grain in Excepted

Item: I here by Constitute my said Son Bartholomew Sole Executor of this my last will & Testament here by making all other wills by me Made before ye. date here of void in witness whereof I have hereunto Set my hand & Seal ye. day & Date aforesaid

                Signd Seald Published & declaired by the Said Jacob Taber as his last

                                Will and Testament in Presence of us the Subscribers

Stephen Nye                                                                                                                         Jacob Taber                                      (seal)

Zerviah Wood

Stephen West

June 28: 1773 Proved

 

Proved on 28 June 1773 by Stephen Nye and Zeruiah Wood, two of the witnesses.

Richard Delano, Stephen Nye and Zerviah Wood, all of Dartmouth, freeholders, were appointed to appraise the estate of Jacob Taber, late of Dartmouth, yeoman, on 23 Nov. 1773. Richard Delano being one of those persons called Quakers took his Solemn Affirmation and the other two were sworn to faithfully discharge of the above mentioned trust. The Inventory of the Personal Estate of Jacob Taber, late of Dartmouth, dated 27 Nov. 1773, totaled £141.8.11.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Bristol County Probate File “Jacob Taber, Dartmouth, 1773,” from FHL microfilm #0581920.

 

 

Will of John Taber of Dartmouth, County of Bristol, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1718) *

In the name of God amen the Eighteenth day of June: 1718, I John Taber of Drathmouth in the County of Bristoll in New England husbandman being Sorely wounded & weak in Body but of perfect mind & memory thanks be given unto God therefore Calling to mind the mortallity of my Body & that it is Apointed once for men to dye do make & ordain this my Last Will & Testament that is to say principally & first of all I give & bequeath my soule into the hands of God that gave it & my Body to the Earth to be Buried in Christian Decent maner at the Discretion of my Executrix here after named & as touching such Worldly Estate which it hath pleased God to bless me in this life I give Demise & Despose of the same in following maner & form

Imprimis I give & bequeath to Susannah my Dearly beloved Wife all my Stock & other movable Estate whatso Ever During the time She remains my widow: but if my sd wife do marry then at the Day of her Marriage the one half of the above sd stock & moveable Estate which is then Left my Will is it shall be Equally Devided between my two Daughters viz: Mary & Sary & to be let out sould or otherways Dissposed of for my sd two daughters to the best advantage according to the Discretion of my overseers here after named untill my sd daughters Come to the age of Eighteen years or at the Day of marriage if it hapen before then Immediately to be paid by my Executrix here after named & the other half of my movable Estate as above sd I give & bequeath to my sd wife free & Clear for Ever: but if Either of my sd daughters dye without Issue heir part to be & remain to the surviver

Item I give & bequeath to my two Eldest sons viz Phillip & William my homestead farm that was laid out in the Eight hundred acre divition being ninty five acres as it is laid out & qualified & also a small peice of land that I Bought of Richard heart Containing about Eight or nine acres lying in Little Compton & County of Bristoll afore sd & Joyning to the sd ninety five acres above sd which sd ninty five acres Lying in sd Darthmouth with the sd peice of nine acres lying in sd little Compton I give to my two sd Sons viz Phillip & William to be Equally devided between them in quantity & quallity that is to say Phillip to have the south End & William to have the north End to them their heirs & Assigns for Ever & to Enter into the possession of the sd land at the age of twenty one years further I give & bequeath to my sd son Phillip his heirs & Assignes for Ever all my salt meadow lying at the foot of my Brothers Phillip homestead farm & Joyning there to further I give & bequeath to my sd son William his heirs & Assignes for Ever a peice of salt meadow that I bought of Daniel Willcock Containing about two acres be it more or less Lying on aflat Called Macombers flat

Item I give & bequeath to my youngest son: Thomas his heirs & Assignes for Ever seventy acres of land as it is laid out & qualified being all my land laid out in the four hundred acre devition & Joyning to the north End of my homestead farm laid out in the Eight hundred acre devition further I give to my Sd Son Thomas his heirs & Assignes for Ever all my meadow or sedg flat Containing two acres & a half be it more or less Bounded northerly on Stephen Peckam southerly on John Earl Esterly & westerly on the water & to Enter into the possession of the above sd land & meadow at the age of twenty one years further my Will is that if Either of my sd sons dye without Isue then his or their part to be & remain to the surviving Brothers: & I Constitute make & ordain my true & Loving Wife Susannah my Sole Executrix of this my Last Will & Testament & also Desire & Request my Brother Philip Taber & my Brother in law Robert Bonnit to be my overseers to see this my Will fulfiled it is to be understood that all the land & meadow above & on the other side mentioned Lyeth in Darthmouth & County of Bristoll aforesd except the nine acres in little Comton as a fore sd & I do hereby ratifie & Confirm this & no other to be my Last will & Testament in witness where of I have here unto Set my hand & Seal the Day & year above written

Signed Sealed published & declared               }              memorandum that before the signing

by the sd John Taber to be his Last                  }              & sealing of this my last Will & Testa

Will & Testament in the presence                    }              ment there being nothin Certain given to

of us the Subscribers                                           }              my two daughters: my Will is that my

                                                                                                two daughters: Mary & Sarah shall have

Philip Taber                                                                          five shillings a peice & to be paid by my

Thomas Brightman                                                             Executrix

William Potter                                                                                                                      John   Taber                                      (seal)

 

Proved on 23 Nov. 1727 by Phillip Taber, Thomas Brightman and William Potter, the witnesses to the Last will and Testament of John Taber Late of Dartmouth deceased.

 

Susanah Taber widdow & Sole Executrix was granted administration of the estate of John Taber late of Dartmouth on 21 Nov. 1728 with Phillip Taber of Dartmouth and John Manchester of Tiverton in the County of Bristol yeomen as sureties.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of John Taber was appraised by Phillip Taber, Robert Bonnit and Thomas Cory, and totaled £1794.13.04. Susanah Taber, the Executrix, gave her oath to the inventory on 23 Nov. 1727.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Bristol County Probate File “John Taber, Dartmouth, 1727,” from FHL microfilm #581920.

 

 

Will of Phillip Taber of Dartmouth, County of Bristol, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1749) *

In the Name of God Amen the fourteenth Day of July Anno Domini: 1749  I  Phillip Taber of Dartmouth in the County of Bristoll in his Majesties province of Massachusetts Bay in New England Yeoman being in health of Body & of a Sound mind & memory thanks be unto God 1st Calling to mind the mortality of my Body & that it is Appointed for men to Dye do therefore make this my Last Will & Testament in following manner & form that is to Say principally & first of all I Recomend my Soul into the hands of God that gave it & my Body to the Earth to be Buried in Christian Decent manner at the discresion of my Executor hereafter Named & as Touching Such worly goods & Estate as it hath pleased God to Bless me within this Life I give & despose of as followeth

Imprimis My Will is that all my Just Debts & funeral Charges be first paid out of my Estate by my Executor hereafter named

Item I give & bequeath to my Eldest Son Phillip Taber & to his Heirs & Assigns for Ever all that Land where he my sd Son now Liveth Bounded South on his own Land that he Bought of his Cousin Phillip Easterly & Northerly on the Land of John Mosher westerly partly on the pond & partly on the Town Line formerly So Called

Item I give & bequeath to my Son Jonathan Taber & to his Heirs & Assigns for Ever all that Land I Bought of James Mosher except a small peice I Soald to Joseph Mosher having Refference to A Mosher Deed for the Bounds & quantity of sd Land together [torn] being all that Land that Lyeth between his own Land herein given his Brother Phillip & John Mosher

Item I Give & bequeath to my Son William Taber & to all his male Heirs Lawfully begotten of his Body all that Land & meadow that Lyeth between the fence & the river that belongs to me Bounded Northerly on the fence & wall as it now standeth that is to Say a Straigh Line with the Stone wall Easterly on & my Land westerly on the river with a wood Lott Lying on the North Side of the way that Leadeth into Dartmouth begining at a stone heap a Little below the brow of a Little hill noarth goat pasture fenc & to Extend northerly a parralal Line with Cosin Phillip Line between me & him So that the Land Shall be of an Even breadth what I have herein give to my sd Son William is if he Shall do & perform all that I Shall order him in this my will to do

Item I give & bequeath to my Son John & to his Heirs Lawfully begotton of his Body the northerly part of my homestead farm Bounded Southerly on that I have given to William Easterly on Corys Land northerly & northwesterly by the High way that Leadeth from the mill in to Dartmouth westerly on John Giffords Land Southerly & Easterly till it Incloses & takes in all the Land & Meadow that Lyeth on the west side of the river with one half of the grist mill & all the other buildings on the above sd Land with a wood Lott Lying on the north Side of the above sd High way Bounded Easterly on that I have given to William Southerly on sd High way westerly on Cousin Phillip Land northerly on Timothy Closson Land formerly & now Charls Dyer & further I give to my sd Son John & in the manner as I have given that for those half of the great Island boath upland & meadow with one half of all my Salt flatts Lying in the uppermost arm & the other half I give to my Son Jonathan that is to Say Above half of all of sd Sedge flatts & the one half of sd Island & meadow thereon & to be Equally devided between my sd Two Sons viz Jonathan & John & further I give to my sd Son John one good Cow a pare of two year old Hoors my gun & all my out doors movables belonging to farming & Every Sort & kind what So Ever it is to be under Stood not Living cretures

Item I give to my Son William the one half of my grist mill & all the Sawmill with the utenshals there unto belonging that is to Say So Long as he my sd Son keeps the sd Sawmill fit to Saw with the priveledge of the Land for Laying of logs boards & timber viz the Land that Lyeth between the Sawmill the pond the Briggs at the wast way & the fence as it now Standeth

and I do hereby order in this my will my sd Son William to pay one Hundred pounds to his five Sisters in the old Tenor & to be Equally devided amongst them that is to Say twenty pounds apeice to Each of them But if Either of my sd Daughters Should hapen to Dye then her part to be paid to her Children Equally

Item I give to my Son Josiah Taber Twenty pounds old Tennor together with what my s] Son hath already had

Item I give & bequeath to my five Daughters viz Martha Sheffield Comfort Bowers Mary Hathaway Rebeckah Bowers & Margret Bowers five pounds old tennor a peice to Each of them & to be paid them [?] by my Executor here after named at my decease

Item I Give & bequeath to my true & Loving wife Margret four Hundred Pounds in good & passable Bills of Credit old Tennor or So much in Houshold goods at an Equal Apprisemen Such as She Shall chose free & clear at her own desposeing & further my Will is that my sd wife Shall have use & Improvement of the west End of my now Dwelling House boath above & below as Sellar Lower roome Chamber & garret for her own use But if my sd wife Shall So cause to move not to Let it to another to cause Difference as also the use & Improvement of all my money or Bills of Credit as they become due by Bonds Bills notes or other wise & also the use & Improvement of all my Live Stock of Every Sort & kind whatsoEver as also the use & Improvement of the young orchad to the northward of the House all for her Comfortable Support & Living during the time She remains my widow & no Longer & I do hereby order my Son William to keep his Mother Margret Taber two Cows boath Summer & winter as he keeps his own & to fetch them or cause them to be fetched Every morning & to be carried to my home Every Night

& I Do hereby order my Son John to Keep his Mother Margret one Riding beast boath Sumer & winter as he keeps his own & on the Homstead farm & further my Will is that after my wives deceas all the money whether Bills of of Credit or other wise & all the Live Stock with all the Indoors moveables that is then Left at her Deceas Shall be Equally devided amongst my five daughters

And also all my Lands that I have not before desposed of boath in Dartmouth & Tiverton I Give & bequeath to my five Daughters to them & their Heirs & Assigns for Ever & if Either of my sd Daughters Should hapen to Dye before their mother then her part to be Equally devided to & among her Children & further my Will is that if my Son John Should hapen to Die before his wife Mary & Leave no Issue that his sd wife Mary have the use & Improvement of the west End of my now Dwelling House with the Liberty of keeping two Cows & A Riding beast boath Sumer & winter She paying for the clearing the grass & making the hay During the time She remains my Son John widow & no Longer & further my Will is that my Daughter in Law Mary Shall have all the Live Stock & in Door moveable that my sd Son John & his wife Mary Shall get while they Live together to be free & Clear at own desposing But all the out Doors moveables to be Equally Devided amongst his four Brothers or their Children if Either of them Should hapen to Die & further my Will is that if my Son John Should hapen to Die without Issue that the the Land & building herein given him Shall be Equally Devided amongst all my Children boath male & female or their Children if Either of them Should hapen to Die provided that they do & perform for John wife as I have herein ordered to be don for her

And I Do hereby make & ordain my Loving Son Phillip Taber to be my Sole Executor to this my Last Will & Testament Revoking & disanuling all & Every Will hereto fore made Ratifing & Confirming this & no other to be my Last Will & Testament

Signed Sealed, Published

And Declared by the sd

Phillips Taber to be his                                                                                                       Phillip Taber                                     (seal)

Last Will & Testament

In the presence of us

Oliver Baley

Restcome Sanford Jur

Restcome Sanford

 

                                                                                                                                                Bristol November ye. 5th 1751

                Then Phillip Tabor Executor Named in the above written will Presented the Same for Probate to the Honble George Leonard Esqr. Judge of the Probate of will &c for the County of Bristoll – And Oliver Baley and Restcome Sanford two of the wittnesses thereto subscribed Personally Appeared And made Oath that they were Present and Saw the sd Deced Sign Seal and heard him Publish and Declare the above written Instrument for his Last will and Testament and that he was of a sound disposing mind and Memory when he so did and that they together with Restcome Sanford Jur. Signed as wittness at ye Same time and in ye Presence of ye Testator

George Leonard

Novr 5th 1751 Proved

 

The Inventory of all the Goods Chattels Rents & Credits of Philip Taber Late of Dartmouth Deceased, dated 29 Oct. 1751, was appraised by Ichabod Potter, Gabriel Hix and Thomas West, but not totaled. Phillip Taber, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 5 Nov. 1751.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Bristol County Probate File “Philip Taber, Dartmouth, 1751,” from FHL microfilm #0576796.

 

 

Will of Thomas Taber Jr. of Dartmouth, Bristol County, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1722) *

I Thomas Taber Junr of Dartmouth in the County of Bristoll in the province of the massachusets Bay in new England tanner being weak in body but in perfect mind and memory thanks be giveing to God for the same:

Calling to mind the mortallity of my body and knowing that it appoynted for men once to dye do make and ordaine this my Last will and testiment giveing devising and dysposeing of such worldly Estate where with it hath pleased God to bless me in this Life in the all my will by me on that all that I am indebted to any person or persons be p in convenient [words crossed out] is owing manner that is to say first [words crossed out] I give to Loveing wife and hir heirs and assigns Rebeckah one feather bed and twenty pounds in money one quarter part of all my personall Estate dureing hir widdowhod Excepting my yong hors and one quilted sadle which I give to my son Jonathan tabor Item I Give to my sd wife the the third part of the Incom of my tan house and yard dureing the term of ten years from ye date of this my will Item Give to my sd wife my old fire room and ye East ter most bed Room to Geather with the Leantwe and Chair for belonging to ye farm during her widow hud: Item I Give and bequeath to my dafter Prissilah Tabor the one quarter part of all my moveable Estate to be delivered to hir when she Comes to the age of twenty three years: Item I Give to my dafter Easter Tabor the one quarter part of all my moveable Estate to be delivered to hir at ye age of twenty three years Item I Give to my dafter mary taber the one quarter part of all my moveable Estate to be delivered to hir at ye age of twenty three years: Item I Give the one half that quarter part of my personal Estate that I Give to my sd wife duering hir widowhood to my three above sd dafters to be Equaly Devided to them when my sd wife shall mary or decease and the other half of sd quarter to my son Seth Taber Item I Give to my above sd three dafters the grate Chamber belonge ing to the new house during the time that they or Either of them shall Live unmarried with Liberty to Go tow and from the same to Geather with Liberty to cut ther fire wood on the farm that sd house stands on and my will is that Each of my Dafters have the fruit of two apple trees apeace duering the time of her Living unmarried and to take there Chois yearly when she aples are on ye trees: Item I will and bequeath to my son Jonathan Taber his heirs and a signs for Ever all my homestead he alowing the priviliges that is before mentioned togeather with with my tan house and bark mill Except as above mentioned: Item my will is that my sd son Jonathan or his heirs keep for my wife two Cows and one hog winter and Summer and to provide her Conveniant fier wood winter and Summer at hir dore fir for hir fire meat and Corn Conveniant for my sd wife and three Dafters tell they Com of age to Roome their portions: it is to be understood as much Corn and wheat as may be for their Comfortable subsytance and my will is that my sd wife have fruite of five of my apletree yearly and to take hir Choise of sd trees Every yeare when fruite is on and all the Limeted perticulors are to Continue duering hir widowhood Item my will is that my sd son Jonathan shall to his mother where with to Support my son Seth Taber tell he arives to the age of fourteen years my Son Seth Doing what Labour is Conveniant for him to do for his Brother Jonathan Taber Duering sd term

Item I Give to my sd son Jonathan Taber his heirs and a signs for ever half my Ceder Swamp in Dartmouth and allso my Island Caled ram Island In acushnett River in sd Dartmouth. Item I Give to my Son Seth Taber his heirs for ever and assigns the remaining part of all my upland Ceder Swamp Salt meadow and soggflats with in the township of Dartmouth

Item my will is that my son Jonathan Taber finish the sd Chamber for my three Dafters as it ought to be dun and my will is that my son Jonathan or his heirs provide for his mothe Every thing that she stands in need of that is not before mentioned if she is not able to do it for hir self and that my sd son Jonathan and his heirs shall take advice and Comply with the Derections of his uncles Joseph Taber John tucker and Thomas hatheway for the dowing and providing for his mother as is a bove mentioned and if any or Either of those persons should decease then my will is that my sd son Comply with any person or persons that the Survivor or survivers shall appoynt to make up sd number I Like wise Constituet make and ordaine my sd son Jonathan Tabe and my brother Joseph taber my Executors of this my Last will and testiment and I do here by Ratfie and Confirm this to be my Last will and testiment in testimony there of have here unto Set my hand and Seale this Second day of ye Seveth month Called august In ye year of our Lord one thousand Seven hundred and twenty two—

Signed Sealed published pronounced and Declared

by the sd Thomas taber to be his Last will and testiment

In ye presence of

Jonathan Deleno

Samuel Spooner

Thomas Kinney                                                                                                                   Th. Taber

 

Jonathan Taber of Dartmouth, Tanner, was granted administration of the estate of his father Thomas Taber Junr, late of Dartmouth, on 4 Sept. 1722, with Joseph Taber and Jonathan Delano of Dartmouth as sureties.

 

The inventory of the goods and chattles and credits of Thomas Tabor Junr. Tanor, dated 30 Nov. 1722, was appraised by Philip Tabor and Stephen West, totaled £1682.01.07, including his house and lands valued at £1200.10.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Bristol County Probate File “Thomas Taber, Dartmouth, 1722,” from FHL microfilm #0576796, the will containing several insertions making it hard to decipher.

 

 

Will of Benjamin Thomas of Middleborough, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1791) *

        In the name of God Amen—I Benjamin Thomas of Middleborough in the County of Plymouth in the Comwealth of Massachusetts, Yeoman, being advanced in years & under decays of body, but of a sound and disposing mind & memory, blessed be God for the same, wherefore, calling to mind the mortality of my body, and knowing that it is appointed to all men once to die, do make and ordain this to be my last will & testament, to remain firm & inviolable forever; principally & first of all, I Give my Soul into the hands of that God that gave it, and my body, I recommend to the dust from whence it came, to be buried in a decent christian burial at the discretion of my Executor hereafter named, nothing doubting but that I shall recieve the same again at the general resurrection by the mighty power of God; and as touching such worldly estate wherewith it hath pleased almighty God to bless me with, I do dispose of the same in the following manner & form vizt.

Imprimis. – I Give and bequeath to my true & well beloved wife Elisabeth Thomas and to her heirs & assigns forever, the one half of all my indoor moveable estate & one Cow. I also give to my sd. beloved wife during her widowhood & no longer, the use and improvement of all my real estate, with liberty to cut fire wood & timber for repairing her fences on my lands, sufficient for her own use, the above I mean as my wife’s right of dower & power of thirds in my Estate.

Item.– I Give & bequeath to my eldest son, Benjamin Thomas junr. & to his heirs and assigns forever, all of the lands that I have heretofore given him the possession of by a deed of gift.

Item.– I Give & bequeath to my two sons, Peres Thomas & Eli Thomas, and to their heirs & assigns forever to be divided in equal halves, all of my right of Cedar Swamp lying in the seventy seventh lot in the south purchase of ye. township of Middleborough aforesaid.

Item.– I Give & bequeath to my son James Thomas & to his heirs & assigns forever one acre of fresh meadow which is the same, that I purchased of Capt David Thomas, and it lies adjoining on Short’s brook, so called, and also, one half of my right in the hundred & thirteenth lot in the south purchase in said Middlebo.

Item.– I Give & bequeath to my son Ezra Thomas & to his heirs & assigns forever one half of the quantity of lands that I now own in the ninety sixth lot in the aforesaid south purchase to be set off on the south side of sd. Lot.

Item.– I Give & bequeath to my son Zenas Thomas, & to his heirs & assigns forever the one half of my right of the hundred & thirteenth lot in the south purchase of said Middlebo.

Item.– I Give & bequeath to my daughter Zerua Thomas, a Right to live in my dwelling house, so long as she shall live, and remain unmarried, and no longer; also, the use of my Garden on the north side of my house and the fruit trees in the same & a privilege to cut fire wood on one acre of land on the easterly side of my home farm joining Morey’s land; also one third of the apples that shall grow on my little orchard, standing on the land I purchased  of Dr. James Shaw, during said term.

Item.– I Give and bequeath to my daughter Susanna Thomas, and to my daughter Eunice Donham & to my daughter Zerua Thomas & to the children of my daughter Betty Hammond deceased, and to the children of my daughter Hannah Soule deceased, and to each of their heirs & assigns forever, all of the remaining part & residue of my indoor moveable estate, that I have not heretofore given away, by this my last will (or otherwise) to be divided & assigned, as follows–vizt.– one fifth part to my sd. daughter Susanna, one fifth part to my sd. daughter Eunice, one fifth part to my sd daughter Zerua, one fifth part to the children of my sd. daughter Betty or to their heirs, and the other fifth part to the children of my said daughter Hannah, or to their heirs—Furthermore, my will is, that if my wife shall not otherwise dispose of the personal estate that I have given her, that my aforesaid daughters and their heirs shall have the same in the aforesaid proportion.

Item.– I Give & bequeath to my aforesaid sons, Benjamin, Perez, James, Ezra, Zenas & Eli, and to their heirs & assigns forever to be equally divided between them, all of the Real Estate that I shall die seized of, not disposed of by this my last will & testament, or otherwise, excepting my Pews in the meeting house –

Item.– after my just debts & funeral charges & the expences of settling my estate is first taken out, I give & bequeath to my said Sons Benjamin Perez, James, Ezra, Zenas & Eli, and to my said daughters Susanna, Eunice & Zerua and to the children of my sd daughter Betty, & to the children of my sd. daughter Hannah & to each of their heirs & assigns forever all of the remaining part of my moveable estate & debts due to me, to be equally divided between them, excepting that the children of my sd daughter Betty are to have one share, and the children of my sd daughter Hannah are to have one share, equal to each one of my other children—furthermore, my will is that; in case that my last mentioned personal estate, together with the debts due to me, should prove insufficient to pay my just debts, funeral charges & the expence of settling my Estate, then my will is, & I hereby order my aforesaid Six Sons to pay the remaining part of sd. debts funeral charges & expence of settling my Estate, equally among them –

Lastly – my will is, and I do hereby appoint my Son Ezra Thomas Sole Executor of this my last will & testament.– thus hoping that this my last will & testament will be kept & performed according to ye true intent and meaning of it. – I the said Benjamin Thomas have hereunto set my hand and seal, this Sixteenth day of April, in the year of our Lord, Seventeen hundred & ninety one.~

Signed, Sealed, Published, Pronoun-

ced and declared by the afore nam-                                                                                 Benjamin Thomas                            (seal)

ed Benjamin Thomas to be his last

will & testament in the presence of us.

                Luther Redding

                Desire Lucas

                Isaac Thomson

 

Presented for probate on 12 Mar. 1800 by Ezra Thomas, the Executor therein named, and proved by Luther Redding and Isaac Thomson Esqr, two of the witnesses.

 

Isaac Thomson Esqr., Israel Wood & Joseph Thomas, yeomen, all of Middleborough, were appointed to appraise the estate of Benjamin Thomas, late of Middleborough, yeoman, on 12 Mar. 1800. The Inventory of all the Estate of Deacon Benjamin Thomas, late of Middleborough, yeoman, not dated, totaled $1819.77, including his homestead farm & buildings valued at $1300, his part of ye 77th Lot in ye South Purchase in Middlebo valued at $70, his part of ye 113th Lot in said Purchase valued at $50, his meadow lying in Short’s brook valued at $25, his Pew in ye women’s gallery in ye Meeting House valued at $30, and his Pew in the mens gallery in the Meeting House valued at $17. Israel Wood & Jos. Thomas gave their oath to the inventory on 27 Mar. 1800, and Isaac Thomson gave his oath to the inventory on 15 Sept. 1800. Ezra Thomas, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 16 Sept. 1800.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 37, pp. 200-202, 311-312, from FHL microfilm #0550719.

 

 

Will and Codicil of Briggs Thomas of Marshfield, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1822) *

In the name of God Amen, — I, Briggs Thomas of Marshfield in the County of Plymouth Esquire, being of sound mind and memory, do this twenty seventh day of February in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and twenty two make and publish this my last will and testament.

I give and bequeath unto my well beloved wife Abigail Thomas during her life, the use and improvement of the one half of all my real estate, and the use of one cow, my horse and chaise with their tackling; also the use of one half of all my indoor moveables, or household furniture of all kinds except what I have hereafter given to my son in the Will.

I give and bequeath unto my only son Waterman Thomas his heirs and assigns forever the whole of my homestead or farm in Marshfield, on which I now live, with all my outdoor moveables and farming tools, live stock excepted. I also give to my said Son my desk and one bed with the furniture thereto belonging, also my silver watch and Silver tankard, and all my wearing apparel, he paying all my just debts. Also I give unto my said Son the whole of the pew in the Meeting house which I now occupy being on the broad aisle near the Pulpit. –

I give and bequeath unto my three daughters Abigail Alden Paine, Abiah Winslow Hatch, and Lucy Pratt, to them their heirs and assigns forever, all the residue of my estate both real and personal, consisting of Woodland, meadow, and other articles of all kinds not before disposed of, to be equally divided between them at the time of my decease, and at the decease of my Wife, it is to be understood that the Money and other articles that I gave my daughters at the time of their Marriage, and whatever either of their Husbands may owe me at the time of my decease, shall be considered as so much of their share, meaning what is due to me on notes, accounts, or Mortgage, and in case there should be more due, than should amount to an equal share shall be equally divided between the three.

And I do constitute and appoint my said Son Waterman Thomas sole Executor to this my last Will and Testament. –

It is also my will that if there should arise any disagreement among my heirs about this will and Testament, it should be referred to three judicious men to settle and determine the same, and if either my heirs shall refuse to submit to the same, that heir shall be considered as having forfeited what is here given and bequeathed to him or her

                                                                                                                                                Briggs Thomas                                 (seal)

Signed Sealed Published and declared by the said Briggs Thomas as his last Will in presence of us, who in his presence and at his request sign here as Witnesses.

Martin Parris

Julia Parris

Mary S. Harlow

 

Marshfield June 18. 1832. Whereas I Briggs Thomas of Marshfield have disposed of my estate by Will dated the twenty seventh day of February in the year of our Lord One thousand eight hundred and twenty two, witnessed by Martin Parris, Julia Parris, and Mary S. Harlow, this is to confirm said Will and in all respects to shew that I have not altered my mind, only as Nathaniel Pratt Husband of my Daughter Lucy Pratt named in said Will, is unfortunately become an unsteady man I hereby express my will further, that my Executor named in said Will take special care that no part of the property given in said will to the said Lucy Pratt, come into the hands of her husband; but that he the said Executor keep the whole of what is given to her in his own hands and solely for her benefit; and to be at her disposal when it can be done without any risque of its being squandered away or misimproved by her said Husband.

                                                                                                                                                Briggs Thomas                                 (seal)

Done in presence of us, who, in his presence and in the presence of each other here sign as witnesses.

Martin Parris,

Julia Parris,

Rachel Morehead

 

Presented for probate on 12 Aug. 1833, and proved by Martin Parris and Julia Parris, two of the subscribing witnesses to each Instrument. Letters Testamentary were granted to Waterman Thomas of Marshfield, Yeoman, on 12 Aug. 1833.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 74, p. 414-417, from FHL microfilm #0555262.

 

 

Will of Daniel Thomas of Abington, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1826) *

        In the name of God Amen. I Daniel Thomas of Abington in the County of Plymouth and Commonwealth of Massachusetts Gentleman being in full possession of my mental faculties, and Calling to mind the uncertainty of my life, do make and ordain this my last Will and Testament, viz.

        First of all I commend my soul, polluted with sin into the hands of God who gave it hoping through Jesus Christ my Redeemer, for Sanctification pardon and eternal life, and my body I commit to the earth as it was in the assured hope of its resurrection at the last day.

        And as to my worldly goods, with which God has blessed me, my just debts being first paid I give and bequeath in the following manner which will cut off those who would be my heirs at law, were I to die intestate.

        Imprimis I give and bequeath to my beloved Friend Mehetable Torrey, Daughter of Deacon Josiah Torrey, late of Abington, County of Plymouth, deceased, all my estate, both real and personal, that I may die seized of, to her, her heirs and assigns forever, excepting what I shall hereafter otherwise dispose of in this my last Will.

        Item. I give and bequeath to each of my Friends Elizabeth Torrey and Ruth Torrey Daughters of the aforesaid Josiah Torrey, one hundred and fifty dollars, in lawful money, to them their heirs and assigns forever to be paid within three years from the time of my decease, and sooner, if it can be done without injuring my estate.

        Item I give and bequeath to my Friend Hannah King, wife of Joshua King, and Daughter of the aforesaid Josiah Torrey, ten dollars in lawful money, to her use and behoof forever, to be paid within two years from the time of my decease.

        It is my Will and pleasure that none of my manuscripts be printed or published after my decease, unless it be such as I myself may hereafter select and prepare for that purpose.

        And I do hereby appoint and ordain my Friends Mehitable Torrey and Elizabeth Torrey aforesaid to be joint Executrixes to this my last Will and Testament, ratifying and Confirming this to be my last Will and Testament.

        In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal, this fifteenth day of April in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and twenty six.

                                                                                                                                                Daniel Thomas                                 (seal)

        Signed Sealed and pronounced by the said Daniel Thomas to be his last Will and Testament in presence of us.

                                Ephraim S. Jenkins

                                Philip Pratt Jr.

                                Albert J. Reed.

 

Presented for probate on the first Tuesday of April, 1847 by Mehitable Torrey and Elizabeth Torrey, the Executors therein named, and proved by Ephraim S. Jenkins and Philip Pratt Jr., two of the witnesses.

 

Elizabeth Torrey, of Abington, was granted letters testamentary on the estate of Daniel Thomas, late of Abington, Clerk, on 6 Apr. 1847, with Philip Pratt and Ephraim S. Jenkins, both of Abington, as sureties.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Daniel Thomas, late of Abington, not dated, was appraised by Ephraim S. Jenkins, Phillip Pratt, and Zenas Jenkins, his real estate totaled $430, and his personal estate totaled $135. Elizabeth Torrey, the Executrix, gave her oath to the inventory on the first Tuesday of Nov. 1847.

 

Whereas Elizabeth Torrey, the Executrix of the estate of Daniel Thomas, late of Abington, has deceased leaving the estate unsettled, Harvey Torrey, of Abington, was granted administration de bonis non with the will annexed, on 7 June 1853, with Jenkins Lane and Sylvester H. Davies, both of Abington, as sureties.

 

Whereas Harvey Torrey, of Abington, who was appointed as administrator de bonis non with the will annexed of the estate of Daniel Thomas, late of Abington, in lieu of Elizabeth Torrey, Executrix, deceased, has since also deceased leaving said estate unsettled, Jenkins Lane, of Abington, was granted administration de bonis non with the will annexed, as petitioned by Ruth Torrey, on 28 May 1855, with Sylvester A. Dawes and Isaiah Jenkins, both of Abington, as sureties.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 89, p. 125-126, from FHL microfilm #0555639, Vol. 2H, p. 111, Vol. 89, p. 458-459, and Vol. 1F, pp. 47, 68.

 

 

Will of David Thomas of Middleborough, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1742) *

In The Name of God Amen, this Thirtyeth day of August One Thousand Seven hundred and fourty two I David Thomas of the Town of Middleborough in the County of Plymouth in New England being very weak of body but of perfect mind & memory thanks be Given unto God Therefore Calling to mind the mortallity of my body and knowing that it is appointed for all men once to dye do make & ordain this my last will and testament That is to Say, Principally & first of all I Give & Recommend my Soul into the hands of God that gave it and my body I Recommend to ye Earth to be buried in Christian Decent burial at the Discretion of my Executor nothing doubting but at the Generall Resurrection I Shall Receive ye same by the Mighty power of God and as Touching Such worldly Estate wherewith it hath pleased God to bless me with in this life I give Demise and Dispose of in the following manner and form —

Imprimis I Give & bequeath unto my Well beloved brother Israell Thomas all my homestead That I now dwell on in The Township of Middleborough both housing and lands Together with all Other of my lands in the Township of Middleboro. Together with all my Personall Estate Except my Toals and Tackling for husbandry and all my Indore moveables I give it to him & his Heirs and assigns forever he paying out Such Sum and Sums of money and Legacies as is herein after named —

Item I give and bequeath unto my Honourd Mother Sarah Thomas Seven pounds a year to be paid her Every year by my Executor and to be paid in the Old tenour —

Item, I Give and bequeath unto my brother William Thomas the sum of One hundred pounds of the Old tenour I Give it to him & his Heirs and Assigns forever and my will is that twenty five pounds of it in the Old tenour be left in the hand of my Executor to be paid to my sister Mary Soul which should have been paid by my brother William Thomas out of my Honrd. Fathers Estate

Item, I Give unto my brother Jabezh Thomas The Sum of One hundred pounds of the Old tenour I Give it to him his heirs & assigns forever

Item, I Give unto my brother Ephraim Thomas the sum of One hundred pounds of the Old tenour I give it to him his Heirs & assigns forever

Item, I give unto my brother Ephraim Thomas’s Son Ephraim the sum of One hundred pounds of the Old tenour to be paid in land or moveable Estate when he shall arrive to the Age of Twenty One years and my will is that if the Abovesaid Ephraim Son of my brother Ephraim Thomas Should dye before he be twenty One years old Then the abovesd. hundred pounds shall be paid to the Eldest surviveing son of my brother Jabez and the Eldest son of my brother Ephraim to be Equally divided between them when they Arrive to ye age of twenty one years.

Item I give unto my Sister Mary Soul the wife of Jacob Soul and to Lois Hooper the wife of William Hooper and to Unice Tinkam the wife of Peter Tinkam and to Betty Wood the wife of Jonathan Wood all my Tools and Tackling for Husbandry and all my Indore moveables I give it to them & their Heirs and assigns forever to be Equaly Divided between them —

Item I give unto the Heirs of my Sister Joanna Cob late of Middleborough Deceased the Sum of twenty Shillings to them & their heirs and Assigns forever —

Item, I give unto the heirs of my sister Susannah Smith late of Middleborough Deceased the sum of twenty shillings to them and theire Heirs and Assigns forever —

Item, I give unto the heirs of my Sister Sarah Ransom late of Middleborough Deceasd the sum of twenty shillings to them and their Heirs and assigns forever —     And my Will is That all the aforesd. Sums Shall be paid and Levied out of my Estate within Ten years Except what is to be paid to my [can’t read] And that my Executor Shall have ten years to pay them in and I do by these presents likewise make Ordain and Constitute my well beloved brother Israel Thomas to be the Sole Executor of this my Last Will and Testament and I do hereby utterly Revoke and Disanul all other and former Wills and Testaments and bequests by me made Ratyfieing & Confirming this & no other to be my last Will and Testament. In Witness Whereof I have hereunto Set my hand and Seal the day and year above written –

Signed Sealed Published Pronounced

and Declare By the said David

Thomas as his last Will and

Testament In Presence of us

the Subscribers —

Ebenezer Tinkam                                                                                                                David Thomas                  (seal)

Arthur Bennet

Henry Wood

 

Presented for probate on 20 Sept. 1742 by the Executor, and proved by Ebenezer Tincom, Arther Bennett and Henry Wood, the witnesses.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 8, p. 539-541, from FHL microfilm #0551531.

 

 

Will of Ebenezer Thomas of Middleborough, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1770) *

  Know all Men by these presents, that I Ebenezer Thomas of Middleborough in the county of Plymouth in New-England, being weak of body, but of a sound and disposing memory and understanding, blessed be God for the same, yet knowing the mortality of my body, and that it is apointed for all men once to die, do make & ordain this my last will & testament to be firm & inviolable forever.

        Imprs. I give and bequeath to my son Jacob Thomas, all my lands & buildings that I shall die seized off, to him his heirs & assigns forever, and further I give and bequeath to him my said son Jacob all my live stock of creatures that I shall die seized off, and all the provision & fodder that I die seized off, and also all the debts due to me at my decease, and my will is that he my said son Jacob pay all my just debts & funeral charges; and also that he pay to my daughter Priscilla Thomas one cow, upon her demand after my decease, and also that he my said son Jacob pay to my said daughter Priscilla five pounds in money, or creatures at money price, in three years after my decease, and my will is that he my said son Jacob provide fire-wood and house-room for my said daughter Priscilla so long as she remains unmarried.  Item I give & bequeath to him my said son Jacob one bed, & beding suitable therefor. ~

        Item, I give and bequeath to my two sons, viz, Ebenezer Thomas junr. & my aforesaid son Jacob Thomas, all my other outdoors movables, viz, Ebenezer to have one third part thereof, and Jacob to have the other two third parts thereof; and my will is that he my said son Ebenezer pay to my daughter Rachel the wife of Abner Barrows, five pounds in money, or creatures at money price, in three years after my decease. ~

Item, I give and bequeath to my aforesaid four children, namely Ebenezer, Jacob, Rachel, and Priscilla, all my other indoors movables, to be equally divided between them, and also my pew in the meeting-house, to be in equal partnership between them. –

And my will is, and I do hereby constitute and appoint Jacob Bennett of Middleborough to be sole executor to this my last will & testament. And I do hereby utterly revoke and disanul all and every other will by me heretofore made and signed. ratifying and confirming this and no other to be my last will and testament. Thus hoping that this my last will & testament will be kept and performed according to the true intent and meaning hereof, I comit my soul into the hands of God who gave it, and my body to the dust to a decent burial.     In witness whereof I the aforesaid Ebenezer Thomas have hereunto set my hand and seal this twentieth day of November one thousand, seven hundred and seventy.

Signed, sealed, pronounced & declared by the                                                                              Ebenezer Thomas                            (seal)

sd. Ebenr. Thomas as his last will & testament,

in presence of       Jedediah Thomas

                                Caleb Williamson

                                Lemuel Thomas

 

Presented for probate on 7 Oct. 1771 by Jacob Bennet of said Middleborough, yeoman, the executor therein named, and proved by Jedediah Thomas and Lemuel Thomas, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Jacob Bennet, the Executor.

 

The Inventory of the estate real & personal goods & chattels of Ebenezer Thomas, late of Middleborough, was appraised on 14 Oct. 1771 by Ichabod Wood, John Tinkham and Henry Wood, and totaled £237.13.7, including his lands & buildings valued at £140. Jacob Bennet, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 4 Mar. 1772.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 21, pp. 61-62, 145, from FHL microfilm #0550711.

 

 

Will of Edward Thomas of Middleborough, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1726) *

In ye Name of God Amen I Edward Thomas Senr of Middleboro in ye County of Plymouth knowing & beleiveing ye Certainty of my Death & uncertainty of ye time & manner of it: being now of perfect memory & in ordinary State of Health am yet waiting for my Last Change, on Consideration of which do make & ordain this to be my Last Will & Testament, In form & manner following: Imps: & principally my Soul that is my better Part, __inally ye Powers of _____ of It I give to God ye Father ye Son & ye Holy Ghost who gave it me to be Washed & Cleansed in ye Justifying blood of our dear Redeemer trusting in Him to Present it faultless before God att his Coming & Glory; my frail Body I Bequeath to ye Earth, its just originall; to be there Reposed by decent buriall att ye Will of my Executors from where I Look for & beleive a glorious Resurrection: and as to ye ____ and goods with which God hath blessed me; I make ye following disposition. I firstly Will & order my Funerall Charges to be Paid & all other debts. Item: to my dear beloved wife Mary Thomas I give & Bequeath ye third Part of my moveables that are att my decease, together with a third Part of ye Income of my Homestead yearly to be Paid to Her & ye Injoyment of which Room in ye Home She Shall Choose; & if this be too Short for Her Comfortable & Honourable Support that my Son that Injoys ye Homestead Shall yeild Her What is Sufficient during Her widdowhood. Item: to my Eldest daughter miriam Thomas my fourty five acre Lott of Land in South Purchase that lyes near to ye Pond Called Tispequins Pond in middleborô to Her & Her Heirs & assignes for Ever. Item: to my Son Edward Thomas I give my hundred acre Lott of Land I bought of ye widdow Sprague & ye meadow I bought of obediah Eddy lying on Bartletts Brook & halfe a Share of Cedar Swamp I bought of Samuel Wood to Him & His Heirs & assignes for Ever. Item: to my Son Nathan Thomas I give my Lott of Land I bought of Nathaniel Holmes & thatt Lott of Land I bought of Henry Wood with ye Houses & fences thereon & a Lott I had of Capt. Tompson & ye Peice of meadow in ye lower meadow I bought of Isaac Tinkham to Him & His Heirs & assignes for Ever. Item, to my Son Noah Thomas I give my Homestead, my dwelling House & Barn, mill & all ye Improvements appertaining to ye same, & ye Lott of Cedar Swamp I bought of William and Eleazer Ring & ye halfe Lott of Cedar Swamp I bought of Nathaniel Holmes & my Part in ye mapple points to Him & His Heirs & assignes for Ever.

Item: to my Daughter Fear Thomas I give my fourty five acre Lott of Land in ye South Purchase not yet disposed of on ye South East Side of woods _____ & my Will is that my Son Noah Shall Pay to my daughter Fear fourty Pounds In two years after my decease: also my Will is that my moveables not yet disposed of to be Equally & Justly divided between all my Sons & Daughters and Finally I do ordain & appoint my dear wife mary Thomas to be ye Executrix of this my Last Will & Testament, together with my Son Nathan Thomas, whome it is my Pleasure Should in that affair assist His mother; Hereby Revoking all other Wills, Constituting & appointing this & this only to be my Last Will & Testament made Established and Confirmed this twenty Eighth day of June 1726.

Published Pronounced & declared

& Signed & Sealed ye day & year

above written                                                                                                                        Edward Thomas                               (seal)

Peter Bennett

Jabez Vaughan

Japheth Turner

 

Probated on 3 Oct. 1726, and proved by Peter Bennett, Jabesh Vaughan and Japheth Turner.

Letters of administration granted on 12 Jan. 1726[/27] for the estate of Mr. Edward Thomas, late of Middleboro, deceased, to Mary Thomas, relict widdow of the deceased, and Nathan Thomas, one of the sons of the deceased.

 

The inventory was appraised on John Bennett, Peter Bennett, and Nathan Bassett on 22 Dec. 1726, and it included cattle & sheep, board logs at the mill, Indian corn, wheat, rye, flax, beans, etc.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 5, p. 287-289, from FHL microfilm #0550511, the right-hand margin of the page dark and difficult to read.

 

 

Will of Edward Thomas of Middleborough, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massacusetts Bay (1757) *

In the Name of God Amen, I Edward Thomas of Middleborough in the County of Plimouth & Province of the Massachusetts bay in New Engld. Yeoman, being exceeding weak in body, but of sound mind, calling to mind the Mortality of my body, do make & ordain this my last Will & Testament as follows viz,

Imprs. My will is my Funerall charges be paid out of my Personall estate & all Other my Debts also, by my Execr. hereafter named ~

Item my will is my Kind & Loving wife shall have all the Goods & Houshold Stuff Lining &c, returned to her again, One Silk crape Gound a Scarfe & apeir of Gloves, and her maintenance out of my Real Estate during her Life – Item, my will is my four Sons viz, Asa Jesse, Husha & Zadock Thomas shall have all my Real Estate equally Divided between them, for them & their Heirs –

        Item, my will is my three Daughters viz, Rhoda, Mary & Rosmon Thomas shall have all my personall estate equally Divided between them after my Funeral charges and Just Debts are paid~

Furthermore I appoint Jesse Thomas to be the Execr. of this my last will & Testament, In Testimony whereof I have hereunto set my Hand & Seal this thirteenth day of June Anno, Domi, 1757, In the Thirtyeth Year of His Majesty’s Reign ~                                                                 his

Signed, Sealed Delivered                                                                                                   Edward  X  Thomas            (seal)

Published & Declared for my                                                                                                       mark

last Will & Testament

        in presence of

Nathan Thomas

Noah Thomas

David Jones Jur.

 

Presented for probate on 7 Sept. 1757 by the Execr. within named, and proved by Noah Thomas and Nathan Thomas, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Jesse Thomas of Pembrooke, the sole Executor, on 5 Sept. 1757.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Edward Thomas, late of Middleborough, was appraised on 24 Sept. 1757 by John Tomson, Isaac Tinkham, and Micah Briant, his real estate valued at £325.14.8, and his personal estate valued at £137.10.4½. Jesse Thomas, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 24 Sept. 1757.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 14, pp. 434-435, 448, from FHL microfilm #0551542.

 

 

Will of Eleazer Thomas of Middleborough, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1814) *

In the name of God, Amen. I Eleazer Thomas of Middleboro. in the County of Plymouth in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts Yeoman being something advanced in years but of a sound & disposing mind & memory blessed be God for the same wherefore calling to mind the mortality of my body Knowing that it is appointed to all man once to die I do now make & ordain this to be my last Will & Testament to remain firm & inviolable forever, principally & first of all I give my soul to God that gave it & my body to the dust to be buried in a decent manner at the discretion of my Executor & friends, trusting that the same will be raised at the general resurrection by the mighty power of God, & as to such worldly Estate that I have been blessed with I do hereby dispose of the same as followeth—viz.

        Imprimis I give & bequeath to my true & well-beloved wife, Rizpah Thomas the use & improvement of all my household furniture & of one cow one Swine three Sheep & of one half part of my real Estate so long as she shall remain my widow the same I give to her for her right of dower in my estate.

        Item I give & bequeath to my son Asa Thomas & to his heirs & assigns Forever two hundred & fifty dollars to be paid to him by my son Eleazer Thomas Junr. at my decease which with what I have heretofore helped him I consider as his proportion of my estate but I do hereby give my said son Asa liberty to live in my dwelling house so long as he shall live unmarried.

        Item I give & bequeath to my two daughters namely Rizpah Thomas & Assenath Thomas & to their heirs & assigns forever One hundred & twenty dollars to be paid to them in equal halves by my Son Eleazer Thomas Junr. at my decease. I also give unto each one of my Said Daughters liberty to live in my dwelling house so long as they shall respectively live unmarried.

        Item I give & bequeath unto my four daughters namely Lusinda Thomas wife of Elias Thomas, Susanna Dunham wife of Jacob Dunham, Rizpah Thomas & Assenath Thomas & to their heirs & assigns forever all of my household furniture for them to come into possession of the same at the death or future, marriage of my before named wife and to be equally divided amongst my said four daughters or their heirs.

        Item I give & bequeath to my Son Eleazer Thomas Junr. & to his heirs & assigns forever, after my just debts funeral charges & the expence of settling my estate is first paid, all the remaining part & residue of my Estate both real & personal of every Sort including the reversion of that part of my real estate that I have given the use of to my said wife & several children so long as they Shall remain unmarried for him or his heirs to come into possession of Each part of Said real estate as my said wife & children Shall die or be married & also to include the cow Swine & Sheep that I have given the use of to my Said wife for him my Said Son Eleazer or his heirs to come into possession of the same at the decease or marriage of my Said wife all of which I hereby give to my Said Son Eleazer Thomas Junr. on condition that he or his heirs shall well & truly pay out the several legacies that I have mentioned in this Will & Shall also pay all my just debts funeral charges & the expence of Settling my estate.

        Lastly my will is & I do hereby appoint my two sons namely Asa Thomas & Eleazer Thomas Junr. Joint Executors on this my last Will & Testament.

        Thus hoping that this my last Will & Testament will be Kept & performed according to the true intent & meaning of it I the before named Eleazer Thomas have hereunto set my hand & seal this eighteenth day of March in the year of our Lord Eighteen hundred & fourteen. —

                                                                                                                                                Eleazer Thomas                                (seal)

        Signed sealed published pronounced & declared by the before named Eleazer Thomas to be his last Will & Testament in presence of us

                                                                                                                                                Isaac Thomson

                                                                                                                                                George Thompson

                                                                                                                                                Ezra Thompson

 

Presented for probate on 14 Aug. 1826 by Asa Thomas & Eleazer Thomas, the Executors therein named, and proved by George Thompson & Ezra Thompson, two of the witnesses.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 60, p. 514-517, from FHL microfilm #0550911.

 

 

Will of Ezra Thomas of Middleborough, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1811) *

In the name of God amen I Ezra Thomas of Middleborough in the County of Plymouth in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts yeoman being under decays of Body but of a sound Mind & Memory blessed be God for the same wherefore calling to mind the Mortality of my Body knowing that it is appointed to all men once to die, I do now make & ordain this to be my last will & Testament to remain firm & inviolable forever principally & first of all, I give my Soul to God, that gave it, & my Body to the Dust to be buried in a decent manner trusting that the same will be raised again by the mighty power of God, & as to such worldly Estate as it hath pleased God to bless me with, I do dispose of the same as followeth (viz) –

                Imprimus I give and bequeath to my true & well beloved Wife Lucy Thomas & to her Heirs & assigns forever one Cow, half of my Sheep, one Swine & the one half of my indoor moveable Estate, excepting my Desk & Cider Casks; I also give unto my said Wife so long as she shall remain my Wido. the use & Improvement of half of my Lands & one third part of my Buildings, the above I consider as my Wife’s right of Dower in my Estate. –

                Item I give and bequeath to my Daughters, Elizabeth Thomas, Lucy Thomas junr., Eunice Thomas & Abigail Thomas, each & all of them a privilege to live in my Dwelling house so long as they shall live unmarried, I also give to my said Daughters in equal proportion all of the remaining part of my indoor moveable Estate, excepting my Desk & Cider Casks, & also each of them sixty Dollars to be paid to them without Interest in two years after my decease by my two Sons Ezra Thomas junr. & John Sturtevant Thomas, in equal Shares, which said Moveable Estate & Money I give to my said Daughters & to their Heirs & assigns forever.—

                Item. After my just debts, funeral charges & Expence of settling my Estate is first paid, my Will is & I do hereby give & bequeath to my two Sons, namely, Ezra Thomas junr. & John Sturtevant Thomas, & to their, & each of their Heirs & assigns forever in equal halves, all of the remaining part & residue of my Estate of every sort, the same I hereby give unto them on condition that they shall well & truly pay unto my before named four Daughters, each of them, the sixty Dollars, I have given to them, in two Years after my decease.—

                Lastly my Will is & I do hereby appoint my Son Ezra Thomas junr sole Executor of this my last Will & Testament–

                Thus hoping that this my last Will & Testament will be kept & performed according to the true Intent & Meaning thereof I the before named Ezra Thomas have hereunto set my hand & Seal this fourteenth day of May in the Year of our Lord eighteen hundred & eleven —

Signed sealed published pronounced & declared

by the before named Ezra Thomas to be his last Will

& Testament in presence of us —                                                                                    Ezra Thomas                                     (seal)

        Isaac Thomson

        Benjamin Thomas

        Ezekiel Bryant

 

Presented for probate on 30 Aug. 1811 by Ezra Thomas the Executor therein named, and proved by Isaac Thomson Esqr. and Benjamin Thomas, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Ezra Thomas, the before named Executor.

 

The Inventory of the Estate both Real & personal of Ezra Thomas, late of Middleborough, yeoman, dated 6 Sept. 1811, was appraised by Isaac Thomson, Perez Thomas, and Peter Wood, and totaled $1445.87, his real estate valued at $1017, including his home farm and buildings valued at $939. Ezra Thomas, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 7 Sept. 1811.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 43, pp. 505-506, 547, from FHL microfilm #0550902.

 

 

Will of Finney Thomas of Middleborough, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1842) *

        Be it remembered That I Finney Thomas of Middleboro’ in the County of Plymouth being weak in body but of sound mind and perfect in memory, and Considering the uncertainty of this mortal life do make and publish this my last will and testament in manner and form following.

        First I give and bequeath unto my niece Nancy Thomas all my Real Estate that I am possessid of also all my stock that I shall die seized of, also all my Household furniture.

        Second I give & bequeath unto my Brother Levi Thomas five dollars

        Third. I give & bequeath unto my Brother Israel Thomas five dollars

        Fourth I give and bequeath unto my Sister Jane Briant wife of Jesse Briant Five dollars

        Fifth. I give and bequeath unto my Sister Sylvia Snow wife of Aaron Snow Five dollars.

        And lastly as to all the rest and residue and remainder of my personal estate goods & chattels of what kind and nature soever, I give and bequeath to my first named Niece Nancy Thomas after paying all my honest debts and funeral Charges.

        And I do hereby appoint my Brother Levi Thomas sole executor of this my last will and testament.

        In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this seventh day of June in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred & forty two.

                                                                                                                                                Finney Thomas                                 (seal)

Signed sealed, published and declared by the above named Finney Thomas to be his last Will and testament in the presence of us who at his request and in his presence have hereunto subscribed our names as witnesses to the same.

                                                                Isaac Lyon

                                                                Albert Thomas

                                                                Ebenezer Pickens

 

Presented for probate on the first Monday of Dec. 1843 by Levi Thomas, the Executor therein named, and proved by Isaac Lyon and Albert Thomas, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters Testamentary were granted to Levi Thomas, the Executor.

 

Levi Thomas, of Middleborough, was granted Letters Testamentary on the Estate of Finney Thomas, late of Middleborough, on 4 Dec. 1843, with Isaac Lyon and Albert Thomas, both of Middleborough, as sureties.

Isaac Lyon, Albert Thomas, and Abner Barrows, all of Middleborough, were appointed to appraise the estate of Finney Thomas, late of Middleborough, on 4 Dec. 1843.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Finney Thomas, late of Middleborough, dated 19 Feb. 1844, totaled $1413.92, including his one half of an undivided farm valued at $1250. Levi Thomas, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on the third Monday of Feb. 1844.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 85, p. 542-543, from FHL microfilm #0555268, Vol. 1G, p. 269, and Vol. 86, p. 75-76.

 

 

Will of Henry Thomas of Middleborough, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1842) *

In the name of God, Amen. I Henry Thomas of Middleborough in the County of Plymouth and Commonwealth of Massachusetts yeoman – being weak in body, but of sound mind and memory do this ninth day of May in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and forty two, make and publish this my last will and Testament in manner following, to wit,–

Imprimis. I give to my beloved wife, a good and comfortable support, during her natural life, as herein after provided.

Item. I give to my Daughter Mary R. the wife of Jesse Vaughan the lot of land that I own, which is bounded on the southeast by Jonathan Cobbs’ land and Moses Shaws house lot, and Westerly by Henry Bishops Land – Also one fourth part of the Thompson lot so called, in the south purchase which is bounded north by Rufus B. Thomas – and south by Zechh W. Riders Land – And also one half part of what I own in Beaver Dam Saw mill, with the land, privilege, appurtenances and fixtures thereto belonging, To have and to hold to her the said Mary her heirs and assigns forever.

Item. I give to my two daughters Deborah S. Thomas and Zilpha T. Thomas all that part of my Homestead Farm which is not hereinafter devised to my Grandson Thomas N. Dean – Also all that I own in the eleventh and twelfth lots in the south purchase – Also one piece of salt meadow which I own in Wareham known by the name of the Thatcher Meadow – And also one half part of what I own in Beaver Dam Sawmill, with the land, privilege, appurtenances and fixtures thereto belonging – To have and to hold to them the said Deborah and Zilpha their heirs and assigns forever – And I also give to them the said Deborah and Zilpha, Four fifth parts of all the Bank Stock which I may leave at my decease, together, with all other of my personal estate wherever the same may be found. And I also give them the use and improvement of that part of my Homestead Farm which is herein after devised to my said Grandson Thomas N. Dean during his minority and also during the natural life of my said wife.

And my will is and I hereby order and direct, that they the said Deborah and Zilpha shall furnish to my said wife, during her life time a good and comfortable support, that they shall pay all my just debts and funeral charges, together with the settlement of my Estate – and that they shall pay one fourth part of all the income of said Bank Stock which they may from time to time receive and when they receive it, to my Daughter Parma B. the wife of Job Dean of Raynham in the County of Bristol during the natural life of the said Parma. And that they also pay the same part of the same income in the same manner, to my Daughter Mary R. the wife of Jesse Vaughan during her natural life.

And my will is that if either the said Deborah or Zilpha shall be removed by death, that the survivor shall hold the same property, both Real and personal, and be subject the same orders and directions as is herein before devised and given to them jointly.

Item. I give to my Grand children, Henry Thomas, Malintha C. Thomas, Edwin Thomas and Polly B. Thomas, children of my son Wm N. Thomas deceased, all I own in the third lot in the south purchase, also one half part of lot number Forty two in said south purchase – Also about 8 acres of Cedar Swamp, which I hold by deed from my said son Wm. N. Thomas – and also one piece of salt Meadow situated in Wareham, called the Carver Meadow To have and to have and to hold to them, their heirs and assigns forever – And I also give to them the said Henry, Malintha, Edwin and Polly, one fifth part of the Bank Stock which I may leave at my decease.

Item. I give to my said Grandson Thomas N. Dean, the son of my Daughter Parma B. the wife of Job Dean, the following described parts of my said Homestead Farm, to wit. The old Canedy orchard, so called, as now enclosed by stone walls, together with all the land I own adjoining, to the northward of a line to be run by the wall on the North side of said orchard, and parall to the side lines of the original lot, from the Purchase line, Westerly to George Cushman’s land – And also the three cornered piece of land adjoining said orchard, bounded Westerly by the Purchase line – Northerly by Jonathan Cobbs land – and south easterly by the Road – And my will is that he the said Thomas N. shall come into the possession of the above devised premisis, when he arrives at the age of twenty one years – And my will further is, that if the said Thomas N. shall leave no lineal descendants at his decease that the property above devised to him shall revert to my surving Daughters and their heirs forever.

Item – Notwithstanding I have given all my personal Estate to said Deborah and Zilpha, I hereby give my Household Furniture to my four Daughters to be equally divided between them

Item. I give to the third Calvinistic Baptist Society in Middleborough in the County of Plymouth Fifty Dollars to be paid in one year after my decease  –   And lastly I do constitute and appoint my son in law the said Jesse Vaughan sole Executor to this my last will and Testament, hoping the same may be kept.

In Witness whereof I do hereunto set my hand and seal the day and year before written

                                                                                                                                                Henry Thomas                                  (seal)

  Signed Sealed, and declared by the said Henry Thomas, as and for his last will and Testament in presence of us, who at his request and in his presence hereunto set our names as Witnesses

                                                                                                                                                John Q. A. Morse

                                                                                                                                                Mary W. Shurtleff

                                                                                                                                                Wm Nelson

 

Presented for probate on the first Tuesday of Aug. 1842 by Jesse Vaughan, the Executor therein named, and proved by John Q. A. Morse and Wm. Nelson, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters Testamentary granted to Jesse Vaughan, the Executor.

 

Jesse Vaughan, of Middleborough, was granted Letters Testamentary on the estate of Henry Thomas, late of Middleborough, Yeoman, on 2 Aug. 1842, with William Nelson and John Q. A. Morse, both of Middleborough, as sureties.

William Nelson, Asa Benson, and Foster A. Keith, all of Middleborough, were appointed to appraise the estate of Henry Thomas, late of Middleborough, on 2 Aug. 1842.

 

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Henry Thomas, late of Middleborough, yeoman, was not dated, his Real Estate totaled $6236, including his homestead farm valued at $3000, and several other parcels of land, and his personal estate totaled 1666.23. Jesse Vaughan, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on the first Tuesday of Nov. 1842.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 84, pp. 355-356, 513-514, from FHL microfilm # 0555267, and Vol. 1G, p. 215.

 

 

Will of Israel Thomas of Middleborough, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1809) *

In the name of God amen I Israel Thomas of Middleborough in the County of Plymouth in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts Yeoman, being considerably advanced in Years & under decay & Sickness of my Body calling to mind the mortality of my Body, knowing that it is appointed to all men once to die, I do hereby make and ordain this to be my last Will & Testament to remain firm & inviolable forever, principally & first of all I give my Soul to God that gave it & my Body to the Dust to be buried in a decent manner at the discretion of my Executor hereafter named trusting that the same Body will be raised at the general Resurrection by the mighty power of God and as to such worldly Estate, as it hath pleased God to bless me with, I do hereby dispose of the same as followeth (viz)

Imprimis I give and bequeath to my true and well beloved Wife Abigail Thomas & to her Heirs and Assigns forever, all of my Household Furniture, my best Cow, my best Swine & one third part of the sheep that I shall own at my decease. I also give unto my said Wife the use & Improvement of one third part of all my real Estate including my part of a pew in the Meeting-house during her natural Life, the same I give to her as her right dower in my Estate.

Item I give and bequeath to my Daughter Jane Bryant Wife of Jesse Bryant junr. & to her Heirs and Assigns forever five Dollars to be paid to her at my decease by my two Sons Levi Thomas 2d. and Finney Thomas in equal halves.

        Item I give and bequeath to my Daughter Silvia Snow Wife of Aaron Snow & to her Heirs & Assigns forever five Dollars to be paid to her at my decease by my two aforesaid Sons Levi & Finney in equal halves.

        Item I give and bequeath to my Son Israel Thomas junr and to his Heirs & assigns forever one third part of my wearing Apparel & one hundred dollars to be paid to him at my decease by my two other before named Sons Levi & Finney in equal halves.

        Item I give and bequeath to my Daughter Abigail Thomas junr. and to her Heirs and Assigns forever over and above what personal Estate she hath already received, fifty Dollars to be paid to her at my decease by my two afore named Sons Levi & Finney in equal halves.

        Item My Will is that my Family shall use & have the Benefit of my provisions on hand, the same as if I had lived & they with me, as we have lived heretofore.

        Item after my Just debts funeral charges, the Expence of settling my Estate and the above Legacies are paid in manner & form above described, my Will is & I do hereby give & bequeath to my two before named Sons Levi Thomas 2d. & Finney Thomas in equal halves & to their & each of their heirs and assigns forever all of the remaining part and residue of my Estate both real and personal. the above Legacies to all of my before named Children I give unto them on Condition that they shall not bring any charges against my Estate for any Service they or any of them have performed for me nor for any money they have let me have or any debts they have paid for me nor for any other purpose but if any of my said Children shall make any demand on my Estate such demand shall be deducted from what I have given them by this Will—

        Lastly my Will is & I do hereby appoint my Son Levi Thomas 2decond sole Executor on this my last Will and Testament—  Thus hoping that this my last Will & Testament will be kept & performed, according to the true Intent & meaning thereof, I the before named Israel Thomas have hereunto set my hand and seal this thirtieth day of August in the Year of our Lord eighteen hundred & nine –

signed, sealed, published pronounced & declared

by the before named Israel Thomas to be his

last Will and Testament in presence of us                                                                      Israel Thomas                                   (seal)

        David Thomas

        Azel Thomas

        Israel Thomson

 

Presented for probate on 23 Sept. 1809 by Levi Thomas the second, the Executor therein named, and proved by David Thomas and Isaac Thomson Esqr. two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Levi Thomas the second, the before named Executor.

 

Isaac Thomson Esqr., Azel Thomas and Ichabod Wood Gentlemen, all of Middleborough, were appointed to appraise the estate of Israel Thomas, late of Middleborough, Yeoman, on 23 Sept. 1809. The Inventory, dated 19 Apr. 1811, totaled $2220.27, including his lands, buildings, and part of pew in the meeting house valued at $1820. Levi Thomas 2d., the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 2 May 1811.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 43, pp. 27-28, 448, from FHL microfilm #0550902.

 

 

Will of Jacob Thomas of Middleborough, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1794) *

Know all men by these presents that I Jacob Thomas of the town of Middleborough in the county of Plymouth, in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, being weak of body but of a sound and disposing memory & understanding, blessed be God for the same, yet knowing the mortality of my body, and that it is appointed for all men once to die, do make and ordain this my last will & testament to be firm and inviolable Forever—viz~

        I Give and bequeath to my well beloved wife, Content, all my Estate real, personal, mixed or moveables of all denominations, or all the good things of this life, that I die possessed of, to her her heirs and assigns Forever, the paying of all my just debts and Funeral charges. And I hereby constitute & appoint her my said wife, Content, to be Sole Executrix to this my last will & testament, thus hoping that this my last will & testament will be kept & performed according to the true intent & meaning thereof. I commit my Soul into the hands of God who gave it, & my body to the dust to a decent burial. In witness whereof I the said Jacob Thomas have hereunto Set my hand & Seal this nineteenth day of September one thousand Seven hundred ninety & four

Signed, Sealed, Pronounced & declared by

the said Jacob Thomas, as his Last will &                                                                      Jacob Thomas                                   (seal)

testament, in the presence of us

                Jacob Bennet

                Hannah Bennet

                Jacob Bennet ye 3d

 

Presented for probate on 5 April 1796 by Content Thomas, the Executrix therein named, and proved by Jacob Bennet & Jacob Bennet ye 3d, two of the witnesses. The bond of Content Thomas, widow, with Ebenezer Thomas & Levi Cobb, yeomen, all of Middleborough, as sureties, was dated 5 Apr. 1796. No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 35, p. 494-495, from FHL microfilm #0550718.

 

 

Will of Jeremiah Thomas of Middleborough, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1735) *

In the name of God Amen. The twenty ninth Day of September One thousand Seven hundred thirty & five, I Jeremiah Thomas of ye Town of Middleborough in ye County of Plymo. in New-England being very weak of Body but of perfect Mind & Memory Thanks be to God therefore & Calling to Mind the Mortality of my Body & knowing that it is appointed for men once to dy do Make & Constitute this to be my last Will & Testament That is to Say Principally & First of all I Com. my Soul into the Hands of God that gave it & my Body to the Earth to be buried in decent Christian Burial at the Discretion of my Executor Nothing doubting but at ye Resurrtion I shall Recieve the Same again by the mighty Power of God. And as touching Such Worldly Estate wherewith it hath pleased God to bless me with in this Life I Give Demise and Dispose of in the following Manner and Form —

Imprimis I Give & Bequeath unto my dearly beloved Wife Mary Thomas all the Goods She brought to Me that was hers before She was Married to Me and also one Cow which She shall chuse out of my Cows and also twenty Pounds in money ten Pounds to be paid in one Year after my Decease & ten Pounds in two Year after my Decease and also three Pounds a Year I Give her to be paid Yearly & every Year & also my three Swine & also one Iron Pot & one Iron Kettle and one Iron Skillett & also on Spinning Wheel a foot Wheel & also Liberty to live in my now Dwelling House as long as She lives And also all the Corn both Indian Corn Rie & Wheat or any other Grain that belongeth to me or is Mine And also all the Provisions of all sorts that shall be in my House that is mine for her present Support

Itm I Give unto my Eldest Son Nathaniel Thomas all the Twenty acres of Land that joins to my Homestead that was laid out as an Addition to my Homestead Except Eight acres next joyning to my Homestead upon the East End thereof I Give to him and his Heirs & assigns forever—

Itm I Give unto my Son Jeremiah Thomas one half of my Lot of Land in the South Purchase so called in the Township of Middleborough to him & his Heirs & assigns forever—

Itm I Give unto my Son Jedediah Thomas one Half of my Lot of Land in the South Purchase in ye Township of Middleborô to him & his Heirs & assigns forever —

Itm I Give unto my Daugh Sary Wood the Sum of five Pounds in money to her & heirs forever

Itm I Give unto my Daughter Elizabeth Tomson the Sum of five Pounds to her & her Heirs & assigns forever —

Itm I Give unto my Daughter Mary Blush[?] the Sum of five Pounds in Money to her & her Heirs & assigns forever —

Itm I Give unto my Daughter Lydia Hackett the Sum of five Pounds in Money to her & her Heirs & assigns forever —

Itm I Give unto my Daughter Thankfull Cobb the Sum of five Pounds in Money to her & her Heirs and assigns forever

Itm I Give unto my Daughter Bethiah Chipman the Sum of five Pounds in Money to her and her Heirs and assigns forever —

Itm I Give unto my Daughter Priscilla Thomas One two Year old Heifer the Choice of my two Heifers And also one Bed a Feather Bed Cotton Ticking the Bolster & Pillow all of a Sort Cotton Ticking & one Bed Blanket & Coverlet black & yellow—

And my Will is that my Executor herein after named pay Each of ye Sums abovenamed to Each of my Daughters within three Years after my Decease —

Itm I Give unto my Son Ebenezer Thomas Whom I likewise Constitute Make & Ordain my sole Executor of this my last Will & Testament All & Singular my Homestead both Housing & Lands Together with all other of my Lands in the Township of Middleborough both Upland & Meadow not Mentioned in my Will nor Given by Deeds Together with all my personal Estate both within Doors & out Doors Together with all my just Debts to him and his Heirs & assigns forever by him freely to be Enjoyed He paying all my just Debts Legacies & Funeral Charges And I do hereby utterly Disallow Revoke & Disanull all other & former Wills & Testaments & Bequeaths Ratifying this & no other to be my last Will & Testament  In Witness whereof I have hereunto Set my Hand & Seal ye Day & Year above written                                                                                                                                                   his

                                                                                                                                                Jeremiah  +  Thomas                          (seal)

                                                                                                                                                                mark

Signed Sealed Published Pronounced & Declared by the sd Jeremiah Thomas to be his last Will & Testament in the Presence of us the Subscribers Henry Wood Nathanl. Holmes Samuel Thomas-

February ye Seventh 1736. The Abovenamed Henry Wood Nathaniel Holmes & Samuel Thomas Made oath that they Saw the Abovenamed Jeremiah Thomas Sign Seal & heard him Declare the Above & within written Instrument to be his last Will & Testament And that they at ye Same time in the Presence of ye sd Testator Set to their Hands as Witnesses And that according to the best of their observation he then was of a Sound & disposing Mind & Memory ~~

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 7, p. 267-268, from FHL microfilm #0550513.

 

 

Will of John Thomas of Plymouth, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1737) *

I John Thomas of Plymouth in the County of Plymouth in New England being in my own Apprehension near my great Change but through the favour of God of a Disposing Mind & Memory, do therefore Make & Ordain  this Instrument to be my last Will & Testament in Manner & form following, That is to Say — First I Commit my Soul into the Hands of Almighty God, And my Body to the Earth from whence it was taken, when it shall please him to take me hence, in Sure Hope of a glorious Resurrection unto Eternal Life through the precious Bloud & Merits of Jesus Christ my only Saviour and Redeemer. And as for the Outward Estate which God has been Pleased graciously to betrust me withall My Mind & Will is yt it shall be Disposed of in Such Manner as is hereafter Expressed — Imprims. for as much as ye Farm in Marshfield in Intailed in My Eldest Son if he Outlives my Hond. Father, I think it sufficient for him in Proportion to what I can give to my Youngest Son, Together with Eight acres and one half of Cedar Swamp lying in the Majrs Purchase which my sd Father gave Me the Deed of, Which I now Give to my Eldest Son Nathaniel Ray Thomas, And also It is my Will that he may be brought up out of the Incomes of my Estate, until he arrives to the Age of Twenty one Years —

Itm I Give to my Youngest Son Simon Thomas, one quarter part of the Iron Works, and the Appurtenances which I bought of my Brother Joseph Thomas, and also all the Lands wch I bought of John Peterson lying in Middleborough & Rochester, which he sd Peterson is under Bonds to give a Deed of to Me, & to my Heirs. I also Give unto him my sd Son Simon my Third Part of the Sloop of which Joshua Soule & Jedediah Bourne own ye Other, Two Thirds of, And also I Give unto him all the Income & Produce of all my personal & Moveable Estate whatsoever, Excepting what is above mentioned for the bringing up of my Eldest Son, And also Excepting what I have hereafter otherways disposed of

Itm I Give to the Church of Christ in Plymouth My Silver Tankard for the use of the Communion Table —

Itm I Give to my kinswoman Deborah Thomas of Plymouth the Sum of Five Pounds to be paid her by my Executr. within one Year after my Decease ~~

Lastly, I Nominate & appoint my loving Brother Nathaniel Thomas of Plymouth to be the Sole Executor of this my last Will & Testament, With Power to Dispose of my Slaves My Bedding, and what else he may See Reason to Dispose of, of my Moveable Estate. I also nominate & appoint him my sd Brother Guardian to my sd two Sons, And order that they may be brought up to Learning, if the Income of what they shall be Posest of, will be Sufficient to do it. I also Give unto my sd Executr for his Trouble of Executorship & Guardianship the Sum of Fifty Pounds, which sd Sum of Fifty Pounds together with all my just Debts & Funeral Charges shall be paid out of my Moveable Estate. In Testimony whereof I have hereunto Set my Hand & Seal the fifth Day of August Anno Domini One thousand Seven hundred & thirty Seven — And further My Will is That the Revd Mr James Gardner of Marshfield, & the Revd Mr. Nathl. Leonard of Plymouth be paid the Sum of Ten Pounds Each by my Executr out of my Estate — Memorandm The Above last Paragraph was written before Signing & Sealing –

Signed Sealed Published & Declard.                                                                                                Jno. Thomas       (seal)

In Presence of Saml Bartlett

Thomas Mayhew  Samuel Thacher

 

Proved on 16 Aug. 1737 by Saml Bartlett & Thomas Mayhew, and proved on 26 Sept. 1737 by Samuel Thacher. Administration of the estate of John Thomas was granted to Nathaniel Thomas junr., of Plymouth, Esqr., Brother of the Deceased, & Sole Executor, on 26 Sept. 1737.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of John Thomas, late of Plymouth, Esqr., Deceased, was appraised by Edward Arnold, James Warren, and John Winslow on 13 Sept. 1737, and totaled £1552.0.7, including 3 slaves valued at £270.0, a large amount of livestock, and 1/3rd of a Sloop valued at £160, but no real estate was listed in the inventory. Nathl Thomas junr., Esq., the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 4 May 1738.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 7, pp. 334-335, 399-400, from FHL microfilm #0550513.

 

 

Will of Joseph Thomas of Middleborough, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1771) *

        Know all Men by these presents, that I Joseph Thomas of the town of Middleborough in the county of Plymouth in New-England, being weak of body yet of a sound mind and disposing memory & understanding, blessed be GOD for the same; yet knowing the mortality of my body, and that it is apointed for all men once to die, do make & ordain this my last will & testament to be firm and inviolable forever.

        Imp.rs, I give and bequeath to my well beloved wife Mary Thomas, one third part of all my movable estate after my just debts & funeral charges are first paid out of the same. And further I give & bequeath to her my said wife the use & improvement of one third part of all my lands & buildings during her natural life, And further I give & bequeath to her my said wife the use & improvement of that part of my lands & buildings that I herein give to my sons Andrew & Jonathan till such time as they shall arrive to the age of twentyone years, and further I give & bequeath to her my said wife, my pew in the meeting-house that I bought of my mother in law Cox. ~

Item. I give and bequeath to my oldest son Joseph Thomas junr. the one half of all my lands & buildings (reserving the improvement of one third part thereof to my said wife during her natural life,) – to him, his heirs & assigns forever. –

Item. I give & bequeath to my daughter Mercy Thomas, the value of twenty pounds, to be paid to her out of my movable estate. ~

Item, I give & bequeath to my daughter Hope Thomas, the value of twenty pounds, to be paid her out of my movable estate. ~

Item, I give & bequeath to my daughter Mary Thomas, the value of twenty pounds, to be paid her out of my movable estate. ~

Item, I give & bequeath to my son Andrew Thomas one fourth part of all my lands & buildings to him his heirs & assigns forever reserving to my said wife the improvement thereof until he arrive to the age of twentyone years, and then reserving the improvement of one third part thereof to her my said wife during her natural life, and further I give and bequeath to him my said son Andrew one half of the remainder of my movable estate after the above bequests & payments are first taken out. –

Item, I give & bequeath to my son Jonathan Thomas one fourth part of all my lands & buildings to him his heirs & assigns forever, reserving to my sd. wife the improvement thereof until he arrive to the age of twentyone years, and then reserving the improvement of one third part thereof to her my said wife during her natural life; and further I give & bequeath to him my said son Jonathan the remainder of all my moveable estate after the above bequests & payments are first taken out. –

Item, My will is that my pew in the gallery of the meeting-house should belong equally among my six children. –

Item. My will is, and I do hereby constitute & apoint my aforesaid wife Mary Thomas to be sole executrix to this my last will & testament. And I do hereby utterly revoke & disanul all other & former wills made & signed by me. Ratifying and confirming this and no other, to be my last will and testament. thus hoping that this my last will & testament will be kept & performed acording to the true intent & meaning thereof, I comit my soul to GOD who gave it and my body to the dust to a decent burial.  In witness whereof I the aforesaid Joseph Thomas, have hereunto set my hand & seal this thirteenth day of August one thousand, seven hundred seventy & one.

Signed, sealed, & declared by the sd. Joseph Thomas

to be his last will & testament in presence of                                                                Joseph Thomas                                 (seal)

Eleazar Thomas, Silvanus Thomas,

                Jacob Bennett

 

Presented for probate on 7 Oct. 1771 by Mary Thomas, the Executrix therein named, and proved by Eleazar Thomas and Jacob Bennet, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Mary Thomas, the Executrix.

 

The Inventory of the estate real and personal, goods and chattels of Joseph Thomas late of Middleborough, was appraised on 22 Nov. 1771 by Perez Churchell, Jacob Bennett, and George Shaw junr., and totaled £450.15.3, including his lands & buildings valued at £285.17.4. Mary Thomas, the Executrix on the estate, gave her oath to the inventory on 18 Sept. 1772.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 21, pp. 58-59, 197, from FHL microfilm #0550711.

 

 

Will of Joseph Thomas of Middleborough, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1811) *

In the Name of God amen I Joseph Thomas of Middleborough in the County of Plymouth and Commonwealth of Massachusetts being weak in Body but of sound & perfect mind and Memory considering the Uncertainty of this Mortal Life do make & publish this my last Will & Testament in Manner & form following (that is to say) –

1st.    I give and recommend my Soul to God who gave it & my body to a decent burial by my Executors hereafter named & as to my Worldly Estate, with which the Lord hath favoured me –

2dly. my will is that all my just debts & demands on my Estate be well & truly paid by my Executors. –

3dly. I give and bequeath unto my beloved Wife Deborah Thomas all my within door moveables to dispose of as she may think proper, the use & Improvement of the South front room in my Dwelling house, one Cow, the use of two Cows the present Summer, the use of a Horse sufficient for her comfort, one Swine in each year, fifteen Bushels of Corn & three Bushels of Rye in each Year, Firewood brought to her door sufficient for one fire sauce sufficient for her use, All the Sweetning and Tea necessary for her use, one third of my part of all the Apples which may grow on my Land in each Year, All my Flax and Wool for the present Year and after that twenty Pound of Flax in each Year & have two sheep kept for her use constantly all the above Goods Chattels & privileges except the within door moveables, she the said Deborah Thomas is to have & enjoy so long as she remains my Widow & no longer –

4thly I give and bequeath to my Daughters Olive Cobb, Lucy Thomas, Sally Thomas & Deborah Carver, one Dollar each. Also I give & bequeath to my Sons Elisha Thomas & Andrew Thomas one Dollar each, my wearing Apparel to be equally divided between my three Sons Also I give and bequeath unto each of my three Youngest Daughters viz. Hopy Ellis, Lavina Thomas & Ethelinda Thomas one good Bed and Materials to make Bedding sufficient for the same –

5thly. I give unto my Son Eliphalet Thomas all & every part & parcel of my Real & personal Estate, Goods & Chattels, which shall remain after my just debts are paid & all the Legacies & bequests in this my last Will & Testament & all & every part of this my last will & Testament shall be complied with. I do further will & ordain & do hereby appoint the sd. Deborah Thomas my Wife & Eliphalet Thomas my Son to be the Executors of this my last will and Testament hereby revoking all former Wills by me made, in Witness Whereof I have hereunto set my hand & Seal this twenty second day of March in the Year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred & eleven –

signed sealed & published in presence of us, who in

the presence of each other & the Testator have subscribed

our Names –                                                                                                                         Joseph Thomas                 (seal)

                Martin Keith

                Josiah Leonard

                John Perkins

 

To the Hon. Joshua Thomas Esqr. Judge of Probate of Wills &c for the County of Plymouth – Sir, these are to certify that I decline to execute the last Will & Testament of my last Husband Joseph Thomas decd.

                                                                                                                                                                 her

   Middlebo. Apl. 6th. 1811 ~                                                                                              Deborah X Thomas

                                                                                                                                                                mark

 

Presented for probate on 6 Apr. 1811 by Eliphalet Thomas, one of the Executors therein named, Deborah Thomas the other Executor named having refused said Trust, and proved by Martin Keith Esqr. & Josiah Leonard, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Eliphalet Thomas, the before named Executor.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 43, p. 393-395, from FHL microfilm #0550902.

 

 

Will of Josiah Thomas of Duxbury, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1746) *

In The Name of God Amen The Twenty Fifth Day of September in the Year of our Lord one Thousand Seven Hundred and Fourty Six I Josiah Thomas of Duxborough in the County of Plimouth in the Province of the Massachusets Bay in New England Carpenter upon Good and Serious Considerations and Being of Perfect Mind and Memory Thanks Be Given unto God and Therefore Calling into Mind the Mortality of my Body and Knowing that it is appointed for all men once To Dye Do Make and ordain This To be my Last Will and Testement That is to Say Principaly and First of all I Give and Recomend my Soul into the Hands of God that Gave it and my Body I Recomend To the Earth to be Buried in a Decent and Christian Mannor at the Discretion of my Executor herein after Named Nothing Doubting But at the Generail Resurrection I shall Receive the Same By the almighty Power of God and as Touching Such Worldly Goods and Temporall Estate Wherewith it Has Pleased God To Bless Me With in this Life I Give Demise and Dispose of the Same in Maner and Form Following … Imprimis My Will is that all My Just Debts and Funeral Charges be Defrayed and Payed out of my Parsanal Estate – – –

Item I Do Give and Bequeath To my Dearly and Beloved Wife Deborah Thomas all the Whole use and Improvement of my Real and Personal Estate Excepting my aforesaid Debts and all My Carpenters Tools and utensils Which I Do give and Bequeath To My Second Son Joshua Thomas I Do Give the use and Improvement To her So Long as She Shall Remain My Widow – – –

I Do Give and Bequeath and my Will is that my Five Sons and Two Daughters that is William Thomas Joshua Thomas Peleg Thomas Benjamin Thomas and Consider Thomas and my Two Daughters that is Deborah Thomas and Ruth Thomas Shall at the Time of my aforesaid Wifes Decease or at the End of her Being my Widow Shall Have all my Estate Both Real and Personal that Shall By any Ways or Means be Found Excepting my Said Carpenters Tooles Which I give To my Said Son Joshua To be Equaly Divided into Shares alike Between them and Their Heirs and assigns forever: Item I Do hereby Constitute and appoint my Trusty and Welbeloved frind Captain Gamaliel Bradford To be the Sole Executor of this my Last Will and Testement and I Do hereby utterly Disalow and Revoke and Disanule all and every other former Wills Testements and Bequests By me in any Before name made Willed or Bequested Ratifying and Confirming This and no Other To be my Last Will and Testement In Witness Whereof I the Said Josiah Thomas have Set My hand and Seal the Day and Year above Writen

Signed Sealed Published Pronounced                                                                             Josiah Thomas                                  (seal)

and Declared By the Said Josiah Thomas

To be his Last Will and Testement in Presents of us

The Subscirbers

          her

Sarah ¯¯ Dellano

        marke

Mary Wadsworth

John Wadsworth jur

 

Presented for probate on 20 Mar. 1750 by the Executor who Refused to accept the Trust, and proved by ye witnesses.

Administration of the estate of Josiah Thomas, late of Duxborough, Housewright, Deceased, was granted to Deborah Thomas of Duxborough, Widdow of the Deceased, with will annexed, on 22 Mar. 1750.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 12, p. 334-337, from FHL microfilm #0551539.

 

 

Will of Justus Thomas of Kingston, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1843) *

        In the name of God Amen. I Justus Thomas of Kingston, in the County Plymouth do make and publish this my last Will and Testament in manner and form following

        To wit

First I give and bequeath to our adopted Daughter Adaline Eaton, ten dollars when she comes of age

Second I give and bequeath to my wife Saba Thomas all the rest and residue of my Estate both real personal (after payment of my just debts) to be her’s forever.

Third I hereby constitute and appoint my friend Noah Prince Executor of this my last will and Testament hereby revoking all others

        In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this Seventh day of January in the Year one thousand Eight hundred and forty three  1843

                                                                                                                                        Justus Thomas                  (seal)

Signed, sealed published and declared as and for the last Will and Testament of the above named Justus Thomas in presence of us who at his request have hereunto set our names as witnesses

        Peleg Bradford

        Henry O Steward

        Stephen Bradford

 

Presented for probate on the third Monday of Feb. 1843 by Noah Prince, the Executor therein named, and proved by Peleg Bradford and Henry O. Steward, two of the witnesses.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 85, p. 52-53, from FHL microfilm #0555268.

 

 

Will of Lemuel Thomas of Middleborough, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1775) *

In the Name of God Amen I Lemuel Thomas of Middleborough in the County of Plymouth and Colony of the Massachusetts Bay In New- England Yeoman being of a Sound Mind and Disposing Memory Yet being Sensible I must Dye Do by these Presents make & Constitute these Presents to be my Last Will & Testament: first my Immortal Soul I Give & Surrender up to God that Gave it hopeing & Trusting he Will through Jesus Christ Receive my Departing Spirit knowing he is Able to keep what I Commit unto him And as to my Worldly Goods & Estate after the Burial of my Body in the Dust to which I Give it Desiring it may be Decently Buried I dispose of as follows Vizt.

Imprimis I Give unto my Wife One half of my Dwelling House during her Life & One Quarter part of the Income of all my Real Estate During Said Term & One half of the Moveable Estate within Doors and without at her Disposal forever Saveing my Wareing Apparrel which I Give to be Divided Equally between my Three Sons Willard and Lemuel & Jeremiah Thomas Also my Two Sons Lemuel & Jeremiah are to Cutt & bring Sufficient Wood to her Door For and during Said Term ~

Item I Give unto my Eldest Son Willard all my Home Lott that is and Lies upon the East Side of the Road Leading from the East Meeting House in Said Town to Capt. Bennett’s Mill so Called as also all the Orchards Meadows Buildings & fences &c Standing thereon to be his & his Heirs & Assigns forever ~

Item I Give & Bequeath unto my Two Sons Lemuel & my Son Jeremiah all my Other Part of my Home Lott or Lotts Lying on the West Side of the Above Road Leading from the Said Meeting House to said Mill to be Equally Divided between them for Quantity and Quality together with that Piece of Mowing Land Lying on the East Side of Namaskett River, & on the North Side of Plymouth Road Leading over Said River, to be Equally Divided also to them & their Heirs & Assigns forever ~

Item I Give unto my Seven Daughters Deborah Miriam & Mehitable Elizabeth & Ruth Mary & Sarah Thomas all the Other half of my Moveable Estate together with all my Right in Winhex salt Meadows to be Equally Divided between them & their Heirs & Assigns forever Always to Remember what my Daughter Mehitable has had is In Part of a Proportion with her other Sisters ~

Item I do hereby Constitute and Appoint my Well Beloved Wife to be the Sole Executor of this my Last Will & Testament Ordering her to pay all my Just Debts & funeral Charges – out of the Moveables in Common Giving her Also all my Right in the Pew in the Meeting House in the Easterly Precinct in Middleborough for her Use & the Use of the Children In Witness and Confirmation of all & Each of the Above Articles I have hereunto Set my hand & Seal this Nineteenth Day of December Anno Domini 1775 –

Signed Sealed Published

and Pronounced by Lemuel

Thomas to be his Last Will and                                                                                        Lemuel Thomas                (seal)

Testament before us the Subscribers

   John Weston

   Israel Wood

   Samuel Thacher

 

Presented for probate on 1 April 1776 by Mehitable Thomas, the Executrix therein named, and proved by John Weston and Israel Wood, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Mehitable Thomas, the before named Executrix.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Lemuel Thomas, late of Middleborough, was appraised, but not dated, by William Bennet 2d, Ebenezar Wood, and Israel Wood, and totaled £560.19.3, including his home farm on the west side of the road valued at £200, his home farm on the east side of the road valued at £84, and his dwelling house valued at £40. The appraisers gave their oath to the inventory on 22 June 1776, and Mehitable Thomas, the Admx. on the Estate, gave her oath to the inventory on 1 July 1776.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 24, p. 149-153, from FHL microfilm #0550713.

 

 

Will of Lucy Thomas of Middleborough, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1819) *

                In the name of God amen. Whereas I Lucy Thomas of Middleborough in the county of Plymouth, Commonwealth of Massachusetts, widow of Hushai Thomas, late of said Middleborough decd, being advanced in years but of a sound mind and disposing memory (blessed be God for the same) calling to mind the mortality of my body, knowing that it is appointed for all mankind to die, do hereby make and ordain this to be my last will and Testament, to remain inviolable forever. Principally and first of all I give my soul to God that gave it, and my body to the dust to be buried in a decent manner at the discretion of my friends and Executor hereafter named, in hopes that my body will be raised again at the general Resurrection by the mighty power of God, and as to such worldly property as God has been pleased to bless me with, I do hereby dispose of the same as follows (viz)

 Imprimis. I give and bequeath to my four sons, viz, Edward Thomas, Hushai Thomas, Calvin Thomas, and Sylvanus Thomas and to their several heirs and assigns forever, to each of them the sum of one Dollar.

 Item, I give and bequeath to my Grandchildren as follows, viz, to Sarah Jackson, Enoch Thomas, Lucy Thomas, Nancy Thomas and Eveline Thomas all children of my son Enoch Thomas deceased, & to their heirs and assigns forever the sum of one Dollar to be equally divided between them.

Item. I give and bequeath to my following named Grandchildren Daniel Thomas, Hercules Thomas, Thomas Lewis Thomas, Betsey Thomas, Rebecca A. Thomas, John A Thomas and Jane Thomas, all children of my son Daniel Thomas decd to them their heirs and assigns forever the sum of one dollar to be equally divided among them.

 Item, I give and bequeath to my Daughter Judith Thomas and to her heirs and assigns forever my watch & Desk, and after paying my just debts and funeral charges and the aforesaid Legacies and the settlement of my Estate, I give & bequeath to the said Judith her heirs and assigns forever one third of all the money I may have on hand & debts due unto me.

  Item. I give and bequeath to my Daughter Lucia Cushman to her heirs and assigns forever, my two best Beds & Bedstead, my Gold necklace, great Bible, my Calico Bedquilt, my hitchel and my mahogany square table, and after paying my just debts, funeral charges and the expense of settling my said Estate, I give and bequeath to the said Lucia Cushman, and her heirs and assigns forever the remaining two thirds of my money which I may have on hand & debts due unto me.

Item I give and bequeath to my aforesaid Daughter Judith Thomas & Lucia Cushman in equal halves all the remaining part of my Estate both real & personal of every kind including my right in certain real Estate lately set off by Execution towards paying a debt due from my son Sylvanus Thomas to the Estate of my deceased husband Hushai Thomas, to them their heirs and assigns forever.

 Lastly. My will is and I do hereby appoint my friend George Thompson sole Executor of this my last will & Testament Thus hoping that this my last will and Testament will be kept and performed according to the true intent & meaning thereof. I the before named Lucy Thomas have hereunto set my hand & seal this, the ninth day of November in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and nineteen.

  Signed, Sealed, published pronounced                                                                                   her

and delivered by the said Lucy Thomas                                                                         Lucy  X  Thomas                                (seal)

to be her last will & Testament before us                                                                               mark

   Ebenr Willis

   Sylvanus Tinkham

   Deborah Thompson

 

Presented for probate on 5 Nov. 1822 by George Thompson, the Executor therein named, and proved by Sylvanus Tinkham and Deborah Thompson, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to George Thompson, the before named Executor.

 

Ahira Hubbard, yeoman, Ebenezer Willis, yeoman, and Adoniram Cushman, yeoman, all of Middleborough, were appointed to appraise the Estate of Lucy Thomas, late of Middleborough, Widow, on 5 Nov. 1822. The Inventory of the Estate of Widow Lucy Thomas, late of Middleborough, not dated, totaled $792.20, including her real estate valued at $250. George Thompson, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 18 Nov. 1822.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 56, pp. 224-226, 343-344, from FHL microfilm #0550909.

 

 

Will of Lucy Thomas of Middleborough, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1829) *

        In the name of God, Amen, Lucy Thomas being weak in body, but of sound mind and memory, considering the uncertainty of life and the certainty of death, blessed be God for the same, do make and publish this my last Will and Testament in a manner & form following that is to say,

        1st one feather Bed, one bolster & two pillows, one straw Bed tick. 2d two woolen Coverlids, 3d two woolen bedquilts, 4th one calico bed quilt, 5th three woolen bed blankets, 6th seven pair of Sheets, 7th five pair of Pillow cases, 8th four towels, 9th one table cloth, 10th two rag coverlids, and some patchwork, one earthen platter & pewter platter, a pewter porringer and six tea spoons. Of Wearing apparel 1st one woolen great coat, 2d one Silk gown, 3d three woolen gowns, 4th two Calico gowns, 5th five petticoats, 6th six pair of stockings 7th three shoulder Blankets, 8th two shawls, 9th one pair of socks, 10th five shirts two woolen & three cotton, 11th one pair of Black Silk Gloves, 12th one Night gown, waists, collars, handkerchiefs and work pockets, I do give the Same which is above written to my nephew Lucy Thomas the daughter of my brother Caleb Thomas, deceased, and Waitstill his wife whom I hereby appoint Sole Executrix of this my last Will and Testament and hereby revoking all former Wills by me made

        In witness whereof I hereunto set my hand and Seal the twenty ninth day of April in the Year of Our Lord one thousand eight hundred and twenty nine.

                                                                                                                                                         her

                                                                                                                                                Lucy  X  Thomas

                                                                                                                                                                                                                mark

This being her last Will and Testament we hereunto subscribe our

names. Attest

        Moses Shaw

        Amanda N. Barrows

        Susan T. Cobb.

 

The will of Lucy Thomas of Middleborough was probated on 1 Nov. 1831, and proved by Moses Shaw, Amanda N. Barrows and Susan T. Cobb, the three witnesses.

In the last Will & Testament of Lucy Thomas, deceased, I was named her Executrix, owing to my feeble state of health I with you to appoint some other person to settle said deceased’s estate.

Middleborough Nov.1.1831                                                                                              Waitstill Wood

 

Edward Sparrow, of Middleborough, yeoman, was granted administration with will annexed of the estate of Lucy Thomas, late of Middleborough, singlewoman, who died testate naming Waitstill Thomas, now Waitstill Wood, as sole executrix of her estate, who has declined to accept the trust, on 1 Nov. 1831, with Joseph Jackson and Ichabod Thomas as sureties.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 70, p. 514-515, from FHL microfilm #0555260, and Vol. 71, p. 431, from FHL microfilm #0555261.

 

 

Will of Moses Thomas of Middleborough, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1803) *

In the name of God, Amen. I Moses Thomas of Middleboro’ in the County of Plymouth in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Yeoman, being considerably advanced in years, but of a sound and disposing mind and memory, Blessed be God for the same wherefore calling to mind the mortality of my body as it is appointed to all persons once to die, I do make and ordain this, to be my last Will and Testament to remain firm and inviolable forever, And first of all I give my soul to God that gave it, and I give my body to the dust to be buried in a decent manner trusting that I shall receive the same again at the General Resurrection by the mighty power of God. And as to such worldly estate as I have been blessed with, I do dispose of the same as followeth, namely—

   Imprimis. I give and bequeath to my true and well beloved wife Deborah Thomas and to her heirs and assigns forever, One hundred and fifty dollars in value for her to take the same out of such part of my Personal Estate that she shall best like. I also give unto her so long as she shall remain my Widow, and no longer, One third part of the improvement of all my Real Estate the same I mean to my wife’s right of dower in my Estate. I also give unto my said wife so long as she shall remain my Widow the use of one half of my stock of Creatures –

   Item. I give and bequeath to my Daughter Zilpah Stroughbridge, wife of Henry Stroughbridge and to her heirs and assigns forever One hundred dollars to be paid to her at my decease by my son Henry Thomas, Also, Two hundred Dollars more, to be paid to her at my decease by my son Moses Thomas Junr. and also one third part of my indoor-moveable-estate after my wife hath taken out so much of the same as she shall like towards her hundred & fifty dollars.

Item, I give and bequeath to my son Henry Thomas and to his heirs and assigns forever one undivided half of the forty five acres of Lands more or less, that I purchased of Thomas Shaw referring to said Shaw’s deed to me dated October the twenty-sixth in the year of Our Lord seventeen hundred & Seventy eight, for further description of the same –  Also one fourth part of the forty second lot in number in the south purchase in said Middleboro’ and it is the same that I hold by a deed of Barnabas Attwood, dated February the fifth, in the year of our Lord seventeen hundred & seventy-seven.  Also one undivided half of about twenty three acres of Lands be it more or less lying in the thirty-ninth Lot in said south purchase which I hold by a deed of Capt Joseph Keith as Administrator on the Estate of Samuel Hackett late of said Middleborough deceased, dated March the eighth in the year of our Lord seventeen hundred & eighty six.–  Also about one Acre and an half be it more or less, of Salt-marsh lying in Wareham and it contains all of my half of the Salt marsh that I heretofore purchased in partnership with my son Moses Thomas Junr, of Rowland Thacher,  Also, after first reserving an open cart way from my Dwelling House to the Road leading from Middleborough to Wareham in the most convenient place, I give to him the said Henry and to his heirs and assigns forever all the remaining part of the lands that I own in the third lot in said south purchase.  And I also give to my said son Henry Thomas and to his heirs and assigns forever, One half of the sixth part of the forty first Lot in said South purchase, which I purchased of Noah Thomson, Also one half of my right in the Acre and three quarters of meadow that I purchased in partnership with my son Moses Thomas Jun. of Nichols Wood on the tenth day of August in the year of our Lord seventeen hundred and ninety seven,  And also one hundred & fifty seven dollars & twenty one cents to be paid him at my decease by my son Moses Thomas Junr. – And also all my smith’s tools, half my wearing apparel, and also one third of my indoor moveable estate, after my Wife hath taken what she, shall like of the same,  I also give unto my said son Henry and to his heirs and assigns forever one third of the Cedar Swamp that I purchased of Moses Shaw and also all my money on hand and debts due to me, and one half of my right in the pew in the meeting house, and half of my mechanick’s tools that I have not heretofore given away,  the before enumerated Articles that I have given to my son Henry I give with reserving my Wife’s right in the same and with his paying my daughter her hundred dollars, and with his paying my just debts, funeral charges and expense of settling my estate —

  Item, I give and bequeath to my son Moses Thomas Jun. and to his heirs and assigns forever, all of my home Farm, whereon I now live together with the buildings and saw-mill thereon standing and privileges thereunto belonging, including the road that I reserved in the lands that I by this Will gave to my son Henry in the third Lot in the said south purchase,  Also the other half of my right in the Acre and three quarters of Fresh meadow that I purchased with my said son Moses, of Nichols Wood, and also the other half of the Lands that I purchased of Noah Thomson, more particularly described in what I have heretofore by this will given to my son Henry, And I also give to my said son Moses and to his heirs and assigns forever all of the Cedar swamp that I now own that I purchased of Jacob Bennet, And also two thirds of the Cedar Swamp that I purchased of Moses Shaw,  Also all of my farming utensils and stock of creatures, and one half of my Wearing apparel and also one half of my right in a Pew in the meeting house and one half of my Mechanick’s-Tools, exclusive of my smith tools, the before enumerated articles that I have given to my son Moses I give by reserving to my said Wife her right in the Real and Personal Estate, and with his paying the several sums that I have given to my daughter Zilpah and son Henry expressed in this will for him to pay.   I also give to my said son Moses the remaining part of my indoor moveables Estate after his Mother hath taken out what she likes as above described.   Lastly my Will is and I do hereby appoint my son Henry Thomas sole Executor of this my last Will and Testament.   Thus hoping that this my last Will & Testament will be kept and performed according to the true intent and meaning of the same, I the before named Moses Thomas have hereunto set my hand and seal, this eighth day of January in the year of our Lord Eighteen hundred and three

Signed sealed published and                                                                                             Moses Thomas                                  (seal)

declared by the said Moses Thomas

to be his last Will & testament in

presence of us ~

  Isaac Thompson

  Josiah Leonard

  Ebenezer Smith

 

Presented for probate on 20 Oct. 1828, and proved by Josiah Leonard and Ebenezer Smith, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Moses Thomas of Middleborough, Yeoman, on 20 Oct. 1828.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 66, p. 336-339, from FHL microfilm #0555259.

 

 

Will of Noah Thomas of Middleborough, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1758) *

In the name of God Amen the Sixteenth Day Decr. In the year of our lord 1758 I Noah Thomas of Midleborough In the County of Plymouth yeoman Being Very Sick and weak in Bodey But of Perfect minde & Memory thanks be Given unto God for the Same and Calling to minde the Mortallity of My bodey and knowing that it is appointed for all men onc To Die Do make and ordain this my last will and Testament that is To Say Principally and first of all I Give and Recommd. my Sole into the hands of God that Gave it and for my bodey I Recommend to the Earth to Be Buried in a Cristian like & Decent manner at the Discretion of my Executor Nothing Doubting but at the General Resurrection I Shall Receive the Same again by the Mighty Power of God and as Touching Such worldly Estate wherewith it hath Pleased God to Bless me in this life I Give & Demise and Dispose of the Same in manner & forme following that is

Impr. My will is that my Just Debts and Funeral Charges be Paid in a Proper Time after my Deceas

Item I Give the whole of the Improvement of My Estate Both Real & Personal into the hands of my True & well beloved wife Mary Thomas until My youngest Child Comes of age and after that if She Shall Remain my widdow one third Part of my Movable Estate and also the one third part of my Real Estate During her Natul Life

Itm I Give & bequeth To my Son Daniel Thomas the one half of my home stead with the Privilidges and appurtenances there to belonging after my youngest Child Comes of age

Item I Give and bequeth To my other Sons Abial Thomas Job & Elias Thomas Equally To be Devided Amongst them the other half of my home stead with my out lands with my out lands & meddows after my youngest Child Comes of age

Item I Give & bequeth To my Eldest Daughter Lucy Alden one pound Six Shillings & Eight Pence

Item I give and bequeth To my Daughter Fear Shaw one pound Six Shilling & Eight Pence both To Be Paid within a year after my Deceas

Item I Give To my Daughter Mary Thomas Twenty Six pounds thirteen Shillings & four pence Lawfull money to be Paid at Day of Marage or in Ten years after my Decease

Item I Give & bequeth To my Daughter Hannah Thomas Twenty Six pounds Thirteen Shilling & four Pence L m to be Paid at the age of Twenty one years or Day of marage

Item I Give & bequeth To my Daughter Priscilla Thomas Twenty Six pounds Thirteen Shilling & four Pence L M To be Paid at the age of Twenty one years or Day of marage. And I order my Executor to Pay the Legayces given My Daughters  Finialy I Constitute My True & well Beloved wife Mary Thomas To be Execux. of this my Last will & Testament hereby Confirming this & no other To be my Last will as witnis my hand and Seal the Date aforesaid

Signd. Seald. & Declard. by                                                                                                          his

Noah Thomas To be his                                                                                                     Noah  X  Thomas                                (seal)

Last will & Testament In                                                                                                           Mark

Presence of us

Ephram Wood

Daniel Vaughan

Jonah Washbourn

 

Presented for probate on 26 Apr. 1759 by the Executorx, and proved by Ephram Wood, Jonathan Washbourn and Daniel Vaughan, the witnesses. Letters Testamentary were granted to Mary Thomas, wife of Noah Thomas, deceased, on 26 Apr. 1759. No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 15, p. 278-280, from FHL microfilm #0551543.

 

 

Will of Noah Thomas of Plympton, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1839) *

In the name of God, Amen, I Noah Thomas of Plympton in the County of Plymouth Cordwainer, being of advanced age but of sound mind and memory and desiring to make a disposition of my Estate by will, do hereby make, publish and declare this instrument to be my last will and Testament, hereby revoking all former Wills by me made.

First–I give, devise and bequeath to my beloved son Henry L. Thomas all the Real Estate of which I shall die seized & possessed wherever the same may be situated. Also all my live stock, farming tools, my chaise and harness, my best feather bed, field bedstead, cord, under bed, bolster, pillows, two Sheets, two pillow cases, one blanket, & one coverled & my best Gilt frame looking glass, my Desk, my great Bible, & my wearing apparel, to have and to hold all the estate before mentioned to him & his heirs & assigns forever upon the condition that he pay my just debts, funeral charges, expenses of settling my estate and all the legacies & bequests hereinafter mentioned and bequeathed & shall also set up at my grave a decent pair of Grave Stones.

Secondly. I give and bequeath to my daughters Elizabeth F. Lobdell, Lucia C. Ellis & Mary S. King in equal shares & to their heirs all the rest and residue of my household Furniture not above given to my Son Henry.

Thirdly. I give to the children of my son Walter Thomas deceased, one hundred Dollars to be equally divided between them.

Fourthly– I give to the children of my deceased daughter Sally Goodwin two dollars and fifty cents each.

Fifthly. I give to the son of my deceased daughter Irene Cushing three Dollars.

Sixthly – I give to the son of my deceased daughter Catherine Bonney five dollars.

And I direct that all the foregoing pecuniary legacies be paid to the legatees above named as they shall severally arrive at the age of twenty one years.

I make no other or further bequests to my above named daughters or to the children of my deceased children above named, having heretofore advanced to my said daughters and to my said deceased children as much as I deem them to be equitably entitled to from me.

Lastly – All the rest & residue of my estate not above disposed of whether it consists of money, notes, accounts or any articles of Personal property I give and bequeath the same to my said Son Henry L. Thomas his heirs and assigns and I appoint my said Son Henry to be sole Executor of this my last will and Testament.

 In testimony whereof I the said Noah Thomas have hereunto set my hand and Seal this thirteenth day of June in the year One thousand eight hundred & thirty nine

                                                                                                                                                Noah Thomas                                    (seal)

Signed, sealed, published and declared by the said Noah Thomas as his last will and Testament in presence of us who at his request, in his presence & in presence of each other have hereto subscribed the same as witnesses.

                                                                                                                                                John B. Thomas

                                                                                                                                                Joshua B. Thomas

                                                                                                                                                Jacob H. Loud

 

Presented for probate on the first Monday of Dec. 1842 by Henry L. Thomas, the Executor therein named, and proved by John B. Thomas and Jacob H. Loud, two of the Witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters Testamentary were granted to Henry L. Thomas, the Executor.

 

Letters Testamentary on the Estate of Noah Thomas, late of Plympton, were granted to Henry L. Thomas, of Plympton, on 5 Dec. 1842, with Jonathan Parker and Zaccheus Parker, both of Plympton, as sureties.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 84, p. 560-562, from FHL microfilm #0555267, and Vol. 1G, p. 407.

 

 

Will and Codicil of Perez Thomas of Middleborough, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1825) *

                In the name of God, Amen. I Perez Thomas of Middleborough in the County of Plymouth in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Gentleman, being considerably advanced in years, but of a sound mind & memory, blessed be God for the same! wherefore calling to mind the mortality of my body, knowing that it is appointed to all men once to die, do hereby make & ordain this to be my last Will and Testament, to remain firm & inviolable forever.  Principally & first of all, I give my soul to God that gave it, & my body to the dust to be buried in a decent manner at the discretion of my friends & Executor hereafter named, in hopes that the same body will be raised again at the general resurrection by the mighty power of God: – & as to such worldly estate as it hath pleased God to bless me with I do hereby dispose of the same as follows, viz.

Item. I give & bequeath to my well-beloved wife Sarah Thomas, during her natural life, the use & improvement of all my home farm & buildings thereon, & all my household furniture, & half of my stock of creatures, excepting so much of my house & household furniture as may be necessary to make good to my daughter Deborah what I shall by this Will give to her. I also give her the use of so much of my Pew in the Meeting-house as she shall need for herself.

Item. I give & bequeath to the children of my daughter Sarah Soule, deceasd, wife of Joseph Soule & to their heirs & assigns forever, in equal shares, Thirty dollars, to be paid to them in one year after my decease by my son Seneca Thomas.

Item. I give & bequeath to my son Nathaniel Thomas, & to his heirs & assigns forever, all of the lands that I purchased of Noah Bosworth Junior, that lies on the left hand side of the highway that leads from the town of Sumner to the tow of Jay, together with the buildings thereon standing.

Item. I give & bequeath to my son Perez Thomas, & to his heirs & assigns forever, all of the lands that I now own that I purchased of James Sproat & others, also of Thomas Brown, & Adam Thompson. I also give him one fifth part of all the pews I own in the meeting-house. – Also my right in the First Social Library in Middleborough.

Item. I give & bequeath to my dau: Anna Thomas, wife of Andrew Thomas, Thirty dollars, to be paid to her in one year after my decease by my son Seneca Thomas, in addition to what I let her have at the time of her marriage.

Item. I give & bequeath to my son Benjamin Thomas, and to his heirs & assigns forever, my Note of Ten dollars I hold against him, in addition to the land I heretofore deeded to him.

Item. I give & bequeath to the children of my son William Thomas, deceased, & to their heirs & assigns forever, all of my lands that I purchased of Noah Bosworth Junr. that lies on the right hand side of the highway leading from the town of Sumner to the town of Jay. Also one undivided half of the lands purchased of Barnabas Hedge Esqr. Also one six part of all my wearing apparel.– all to be divided equally between them.

Item. I give & bequeath to my dau: Deborah Thomas, & to her heirs & assigns forever, Thirty dollars, to be paid to her by my son Seneca Thomas in one year after my decease, and also the privilege of living in & improving one of the rooms of my house that has a fire-place in it, – And privilege to cut five cord of good wood on my home farm a year so long as she shall remain unmarried. – And in case I shall not, while I am living, pay or deliver to her to the value of Seventy dollars to make her equal to what I helped my other daughters when they were married, then my Will is, & I do hereby order that my said daughter Deborah shall have out of my household furniture enough to make up to her the seventy dollars.

Item. I give & bequeath to my daughter Elizabeth Shurtleff, wife of James Shurtleff, & to her heirs & assigns forever, Thirty dollars, to be paid to her in one year after my decease by my son Seneca Thomas.

Item. I give & bequeath to my son Winslow Thomas, & to his heirs & assigns forever, Four hundred dollars which he has already receivd. by my son Seneca Thomas by my request, including the interest. – And also what Cedar Swamp that I now own that I purchased in company with Eleazer Thomas of Benjamin Robins. Also a piece of meadow I purchased of Elijah Soule. Also one fifth part of all the pews I own in the Meeting-house.

Item. I give & bequeath to my daughter Rebecca Sampson, wife of John Sampson & to her heirs & assigns forever, Thirty dollars, to be paid to her in one year after my decease by my son Seneca Thomas, in addition to what she has receivd.

Item, I give and bequeath to my grandson Perez Thomas, son of my son Benjamin Thomas, & to his heirs & assigns forever, my gun & bayonet.

Item, I give & bequeath to my five sons, namely Nathaniel Perez Benjamin Thomas Winslow & Seneca, & to their heirs & assigns forever, five six of my wearing apparel in equal proportion & also six eleventh parts of my family Library.

Item, I give & bequeath to my sons Nathaniel, Perez, Benjamin, Winslow, & Seneca, in equal proportions, to their & each of their heirs & assigns forever, the hundred fifty-fifth & hundred fifty-sixth lots of Land in the south purchase in said Middleborough. – Also all of my lands I purchased by two deeds of Josiah Hayward – Also all of the land that I now own that I, in company with Benjamin Thomas & James Thomas, purchased of Jacob Soule, Ebenr. Washburn & Abigail Washburn.

Item. I give & bequeath to my four daughters, Anna Thomas, Deborah Thomas, Rebecca Sampson, & Elizabeth Shurtleff, & to their heirs & assigns forever, four fifths of my household furniture & four tenths of my stock of creatures, for them to come into possession of at the death of my before named wife, excepting I do reserve so much of my household furniture as to make up to the said Deborah the sum of Seventy dollars each heretofore by this Will given to them in case I shall not deliver to them the same while living. I also give to them four eleventh parts of my family Library.

Item. I give & bequeath to the children of my dau: Sarah Soule, deceasd. wife of Joseph Soule, & to their heirs & assigns forever, one fifth of my household furniture; & one tenth of my stock of creatures, & one eleventh part of my family library after my daughters Anna, Deborah, Rebecca, & Elizabeth have taken out their shares.

Item. I give & bequeath to my son Seneca Thomas, & to his heirs & assigns forever, all the remaining part of my Estate of all sorts, on condition that he, the said Seneca Thomas shall well & truly pay or cause to be paid all of the legacies I have given by this Will, & ordered for him to pay, & shall also fully discharge my before named son Winslow Thomas from the before named four hundred dollars & the interest thereof that he has already paid the said Winslow at my request, & on condition that he, the said Seneca, shall pay all my just debts, funeral charges, & the expense of settling my Estate.

Lastly, my Will is & I do hereby appoint my son Seneca Thomas, sole Executor of this my last Will & Testament.  Thus hoping that this, my last Will & Testament will be kept & performed according to the true intent & meaning thereof, I, the before named Perez Thomas, have hereunto set my hand & seal this, the sixteenth day of July in the year of our Lord Eighteen hundred & twenty-five.

                Signed, sealed, published, pronounced,

                & declared by the said Perez Thomas                                                             Perez Thomas                                   (seal)

                to be his last Will & Testament in

                presence of us,                     George Thompson

                                                                Simeon Richmond

                                                                Lucy Thomson

 

                Whereas I, the undersigned Perez Thomas of Middleborough in the County of Plymouth, yeoman, have made my last Will & Testament, by which I bequeathed & devised to my late son William Thomas certain real estate, lands, & tenements, to have & to hold to him, his heirs & assigns forever, now I hereby publish & declare that it is further my will, said William having deceased since the making of said last Will & Testament, that Rachel Thomas, widow of said William, shall have & hold the lands & tenements, in & by my said Will devised to said William, for & during her widowhood: and this paper to be made a Codicil to my said last Will and Testament.

                Signed & published in                                                                                        Perez Thomas.

                presence of these witnesses

                this twenty-fifty day of October in

                the year of our Lord, 1825

Witness. William Shaw Jr.

                                Zeruah Cushman

                                Levi Morse Jr.

 

Presented for probate on 5 Aug. 1828, and proved by George Thompson and Lucy Thomson, two of the witnesses to said will, and William Shaw Junr. and Zeruah Cushman, two of the witnesses to said Codicil. Letters of Administration were granted to Seneca Thomas, of Middleborough, on 5 Aug. 1828.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 66, p. 204-207, from FHL microfilm #0555259.

 

 

Will of Rebecca Thomas of Middleborough, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1827) *

                Be it remembered, that I Rebecca Thomas of Middleborough and County of Plymouth, widow-woman, being of sound mind & memory, do this day, the fourteenth December in the year of our Lord One thousand eight hundred & twenty-seven, do make & publish this my last Will & Testament in manner following, that is to say.   Imprimis. I give to my two daughters, namely Bashabe Tribou & Lucy Thomson, all my neet stock, and as to the remaining part of my Estate, both Real and personal of all kinds, I give to my three daughters, namely Bashabe Tribou, Lucy Thomson, & Betsey Thomas, to have & to hold the same, to them, their heirs & assigns forever equally.     And lastly I do constitute and ordain my son-in-law Melzar Tribou, the Executor of this my last Will and Testament.

In testimony whereof I do hereunto set my hand & seal the day & year above written.

        Signed, sealed, published,                                                                                                          her

        pronounced, & declared                                                                                             Rebecca  X  Thomas                           (seal)

        by the testator Rebecca                                                                                                              mark

        Thomas, as & for her last will & Testament, in the presence of us who at her request and in her presence hereunto set our names as witnesses to the same.

                                                Seth Eaton

                                                Cyrus White

                                                Eben Beals

 

Presented for probate on 21 Jan. 1828, and proved by Seth Eaton and Eben Beals, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Melzar Tribou on 21 Jan. 1828.

 

Abner Barrows, Jonathan Standish, and Levi Thomas were appointed to appraise the Estate of Rebecca Thomas, late of Middleborough, on 7 Jan. 1828. The Inventory of the Estate of Rebecca Thomas, late of Middleborough, not dated, totaled $145.70, no real estate. Melzar Tribou, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 5 Aug. 1828.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 66, pp. 30-31, 202-203, from FHL microfilm #0555259.

 

 

Will of Rufus B. Thomas of Middleborough, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1846) *

                Be it remembered, that I Rufus B. Thomas of Middleborough, in the County of Plymouth, Merchant, do on this thirtieth day of April, in the year of our Lord One thousand eight hundred and forty six make publish and declare this my last will and testament in manner following

                In the first place my Executor which I shall hereafter nominate, will pay my just debts and funeral charges

                Item, I give and bequeath to my only child Sylvia N. Thomas, all my property, both real and personal Estate, except paying my just debts, funeral charges and expense of settlement. –

                Lastly, I do appoint Horatio N. Thomas, to execute this my last will and testament.

                In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and seal the day and year above written.

                Signed, sealed and published by the said Rufus B. Thomas declaring this to be his last will and testament in presence of us, who at the request were called, as witnesses to the same, and in his presence did hereunto subscribe our names.

        Jonathan Cobb

        Hiram S. Smith                                                                                                            Rufus B. Thomas                              (seal)

        Jabez Cobb Jr.

 

Presented for probate on the first Tuesday of July 1846 by Horatio N. Thomas, the Executor therein named, and proved by Jonathan Cobb, one of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters Testamentary were granted to Horatio N. Thomas.

 

Horatio N. Thomas, of Middleborough, was appointed as Executor of the last Will and Testament of Rufus B. Thomas, late of Middleborough, Merchant, on 7 July 1846, with Jonathan Cobb and Hiram S. Smith, both of Middleborough, as sureties.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Rufus B. Thomas, late of Middleborough, was appraised on 1 Aug. 1846 by Jonathan Cobb, Israel Smith, and Hiram S. Smith, his real estate valued at $761, and his personal estate totaled $1266.93, including $589.38 in merchandise such as broad cloths, Cassimers, vestings, de Laines, Linens, Shawls, shoes, Prints, Silks, Gloves, etc.

Horatio N. Thomas, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on the first Tuesday of Nov. 1846.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 88, pp. 302-303, 475, from FHL microfilm #0555638, and Vol. 2H, p. 77.

 

 

Will of Ruth Thomas of Middleborough, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1770) *

Know all Men by these presents, That I Ruth Thomas of the town of Middleborough in the county of Plymouth in New England (widow of Henry Thomas late of said Middleborough deced) being weak of body, yet of a sound & disposing memory & understanding, blessed be God for the same, yet knowing the mortality of my body, and that it is apointed for all once to die do make & ordain this my last will & testament, to be firm and inviolable forever.

Imprs. I give & bequeath to my two youngest sons Elijah & Enoch Thomas, all my cash, and also all the debts due to me at my decease, they first paying all my just debts & funeral charges, and also the legacies hereafter-mentioned.

Item, I give and bequeath to my four sons namely Barzillai Thomas, Moses Thomas, Elijah Thomas & Enoch Thomas all my other estate of all denominations, to be equally divided among them. ~

Item, I give & bequeath to my two grandchildren namely Ebenezer Hacket & Henry Hacket, children of Ebenezer Hacket, each of them one dollar to be paid to them by my two youngest sons Elijah & Enoch Thomas equally between them. –

And my will is and I do hereby constitute & apoint my son Barzillai Thomas, to be executor of this my last will & testament. – Thus hoping that this my last will & testament will be kept & performed according to the true intent & meaning hereof. I comit my soul into the hands of God who gave it, and my body to the dust to a decent burial, nothing doubting but I shall receive the same again by the mighty power of God.  In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand & seal this eighteenth day of June, one thousand, seven hundred & seventy. ~

Signed, sealed, pronounced, & declared as her                                                              Ruth Thomas                                     (seal)

Last will & testament by the sd. Ruth Thomas,

in the presence of us           Jacob Bennet

                                                Hope Bennet

                                                Hope Thomas

 

Presented for probate on 22 May 1771 by Barzillai Thomas, the Executor therein named, and proved by Jacob Bennet and Hope Bennet, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Barzillai Thomas, the Executor.

 

The Inventory of the estate of Ruth Thomas, late of Middleborough, widow of Henry Thomas, late of sd. Middleboro’, was appraised on 29 Mar. 1771 by Jacob Bennett, George Shaw junr. and Ebenezer Willis, and totaled £23.5.3, no real estate. Barzillai Thomas, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 22 May 1771.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 20, p. 538-539, from FHL microfilm #0550711.

 

 

Will of Seneca Thomas of Middleborough, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1870) *

Know all Men by these presents that I Seneca Thomas of Middleborough in the County of Plymouth, and Commonwealth of Massachusetts, being of sound disposing mind and memory, do make and publish this my last will and testament.

First, I give, bequeath and devise to my beloved wife Hope Thomas, about six acres of land with the dwelling house, where I now reside, bounded and described as follows, viz, Bound South by Purchase Street, to extend west to a direct line passing from said street Northerly through the middle my barn to a stake, thence Easterly and parallel with said street, and passing North of the Blacksmith shop to a stake, thence Southerly to said street, with all the buildings thereon. Also the orchard field as it is now fenced in, bounded on the North by said street, and on the west by the Homestead of Lothrop Thomas and his wife Louisa F. Thomas. Also one fourth part of all the crops that may grow on the other parts of my farm and meadow lands and cranberry bogs. Also one fourth part of all the wood and timber that may be cut from my wood and swamp lands, and if the owners of the above named lands refuse or neglect to cut and market said wood and timber to the amount equal to the growth of the whole, and pay to my said wife the one fourth part as above described, then I give my said wife the right to enter upon said premises, and cut and sell as much of said wood and timber as she may need for her support and comfort. I also give to my said wife all the rest and residue of my personal property after the payment of my debts, funeral charges, expenses of executing this will, and the payment of the legacies hereinafter given and bequeathed. The above described real estate, personal property, rights and privileges, I hereby give, bequeath and devise to my said wife so long as she shall remain unmarried and my widow and no longer.

Second. I give, bequeath and devise to my son Seneca R. Thomas, all that part of the William Shaw farm, so called, that is situate and being on the East side of the line known as the tier line. Also my fresh meadow lot on Rocky Meadow Brook and situate in the town of Carver. Also the James Cobb Place so called, being two original lots in the South Purchase in said Middleborough and numbered 163 & 164. Also all that part of my Homestead farm that is situate and being between said James Cobb place and said street, extending East to Rocky Meadow Street, and West to the Homestead farm of Eleazer Thomas deceased, except the Six acre lot for a Homestead for my wife, and except one half acre on which the west half of my barn stands. I also give my said son about twenty acres of the Hedge lot, so called, adjoining said James Cobb Place, and situate on the East side of a line commencing at an oak tree marked for a range tree on the line between said Hedge lot and said Eleazer Thomas farm, thence running northerly and parallel with the tier line across said Hedge lot. Also one undivided half part of a parcel of land that I own in common with Bartlett Thomas, called the Porter lot and is a part of the original lot in said Purchase numbered 89. Also about seventeen acres of the original lot in said Purchase numbered 88, and called Thompson lot. Also about twenty acres called the Great Hill lot, bounded in part by land of said Seneca R. Thomas and by land of Bartlett Thomas, called the Darling lot. Also the field on the west side of the sawmill road and extending from said Seneca R. Thomas’ Homestead to the Canal so as to water cattle at said Canal from said field. Also a lot of the Rocky Meadow Cranberry Bog as staked and marked out and now occupied by said Seneca R. Thomas with a right to take all the sand from the hill or field next South and West of said Bog, that may be necessary for the cultivation of cranberries on said bog. Also one undivided half part of the Rocky Meadow Saw Mill lot, Dam, Water power, Mills and Machinery with the privileges thereto belonging. Also one undivided half part of a Meeting house Pew owned in common with the heirs of Andrew Thomas deceased. Also a horse shed near the Meeting house.

To have and to hold to him the said Seneca R. Thomas his heirs and assigns forever, subject to the rights and privileges of my said wife as described in this will and flowage on Shaw Place.

Third. I give, bequeath and devise to my daughter Louisa F. Thomas wife of Lothrop Thomas, the following described parcels of land, bounded and described as follows, viz. Beginning at the corner of the fence at the Northeast corner of the orchard, then Easterly by said Purchase Street to Rocky Meadow Sawmill lot, thence Southerly by said Mill lot to the Brook, thence down stream in said Brook to the tier line, thence Southerly in said tier line across the William Shaw farm, to the land formerly owned by Benjamin Shaw, deceased, thence by said Shaw farm and lands of Thomas Snow, and land of Isaac Shaw and land of Seneca R. Thomas to another tier line, thence in the last named tier line to a lot of land called the Howard Place, thence by the North side of the Canal to a fence near the Sawmill road, thence in said fence Northerly and on the west side of said sawmill road to Purchase Street; thence Easterly by said Purchase Street to the Homestead of the said Lothrop Thomas and Louisa F. Thomas; thence Southerly and Easterly by said Homestead to said orchard; thence Easterly and northerly by said orchard to the bound first mentioned, with the Mills and Machinery thereon, together with the right to flow the mill pond to the usual height from the tenth day of October in each and every year until the fifteenth day of May next following; Also the privilege of digging out the Brook and canal and repairing the Dam, and getting earth to repair said dam on the land hereinafter given to my daughter Marcia Weston; always however excepting that part of the fresh meadow hereinafter given to said Marcia Weston. I also give to said Louisa F. Thomas the westerly half of my Barn and the wagon shed near said Barn with one square half acre of land bounded on the South by said Purchase Street; and on the East by the House lot, as described for a Homestead for my said wife. Also a part of the original lot in said Purchase numbered 106, situate and being between said Darling lot and the lot I bought of Daniel Shaw, and called the Daniel Shaw lot, also a part of the original lot in said Purchase, numbered 107, situate and being between said Daniel Shaw lot and land of Charles N. Atwood, Also two lots of Rocky Meadow Cranberry Bog as staked and marked out and occupied by said Louisa F. Thomas and her said husband, with a right to take all the sand from the Hill or field next south and West of said Bog, that may be necessary for the cultivation of Cranberries on said Bog. Also a lot of land bounded Northeasterly by Chesnut Street in said Middleborough, Southerly by the estate of the late Eleazer Thomas deceased, and Westerly by Shorts Brook, Also one undivided half part of a Pew and Shed owned in common with the said Lothrop Thomas. To have and to hold to her the said Louisa F. Thomas her heirs and assigns forever, subject to the rights and privileges of my said wife as described in this will.

Fourth. I give, bequeath and devise to my daughter Marcia Weston, wife of Dura Weston the following described parcels of land, bounded and described as follows, Viz. Beginning at the Southeast corner of the Homestead of the said Dura Weston and Marcia Weston, thence Southerly by the field given in this will to Seneca R. Thomas for a watering place, to the Canal, thence Westerly by the North side of said Canal to the corner of said Howard Place, thence Southerly by the land given to Louisa F. Thomas aforesaid, to the tier line, thence in said tier line to said Darling lot, land of Charles H. Thomas, another lot owned by said Wrightington, and the estate of Eleazer Thomas, deceased, to the homestead of Lucy Getchel, thence by said Homestead to said Purchase Street, thence Easterly by said Street to the Homestead of said Dury Weston and Marcia Weston, thence Southerly and easterly by said last named Homestead to the bound first mentioned. Also the woodlot called the Daniel Shaw lot. Also all that part of the Hedge lot west of the line described in the second section of this will, and bounded East by that part of said Hedge lot given to Seneca R. Thomas, and South by the Homestead of the late Eleazer Thomas, aforesaid, Also all that I own in the Mory lot, so called, being the lot numbered 79 in the Purchase aforesaid. Also the field on the South and west of the Cranberry Bog, bounded on the South by said Purchase Street, and on the West by Rocky Meadow Street, subject to the rights of taking sand as herein before described. Also two lots of Rocky Meadow Cranberry Bog as staked and marked out, and occupied by said Marcia Weston and her said husband. Also one undivided half part of the Rocky Meadow Sawmill lot, Dam, water-power, Mills and Machinery with the privileges thereto belonging. Also one undivided half part of all the fresh meadow in that parcel of land first described as given to Louisa F. Thomas in this will, except the fresh meadow from the Benjamin Shaw meadow, down stream between the Sawmill Brook and Muddy Brook (it is to be understood that said Louisa F. Thomas is to have all the meadow that I own between the two said Brooks, and that the said Marcia Weston and Louisa F. Thomas shall have in equal and undivided shares, the rest and residue of the fresh meadows on said Brook that I own and is situate within the bounds of the first lot described as given to said Louisa F. Thomas.) Also one undivided half part of a Pew that was given to me by my brother Perez Thomas now deceased. Also all the notes and other demands for money, that I hold against said Dura Weston and Marcia Weston. To have and to hold to her the said Marcia Weston her heirs and assigns forever, subject to the rights and privileges of my said wife as described in this will, and flowage up the canal as given to Louisa F. Thomas with right to repair said Canal and dam.

Fifth. I give and bequeath to my two grandchildren Fidelia J. Morse wife of John Morse and Lorenzo E. Thomas, children of my deceased son Lorenzo Thomas, five hundred dollars each, to be paid to them out of my personal property by my executor, in one year after my decease, if not paid before.

Sixth. It is my will that if either of my aforesaid daughters decease before her present husband, that the said husband shall have the use improvement and right to occupy the lands and privileges herein given to his said wife for and during his natural life, and the same is hereby so given, subject to the same incumbrances that it would be if she were living.

Seventh. I give, bequeath and devise to my said children Seneca R. Thomas, Marcia Weston, and Louisa F. Thomas, in equal shares, all the rest and residue of my real estate, personal property, rights, credits, interests and Privileges. To have and to hold to them the said Seneca R. Thomas, Marcia Weston, Louisa F. Thomas, their heirs and assigns forever.

Eighth. I hereby nominate and appoint my son Seneca R. Thomas as executor of this my last will and testament.

                In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and seal, and publish and declare this to be my last will and testament in the presence of the witnesses named below, this fifteenth day of June in the year of our Lord, one thousand eight hundred and seventy.

                                                                                                                                                Seneca Thomas                                (seal)

Signed sealed published and declared by the said Seneca Thomas, as and for his last will and testament, in presence of us, who in his presence, and in the presence of each other, and at his request have hereunto subscribed our names as witnesses.

                                                Ichabod F. Atwood

                                                William L. Holmes

                                                Elizabeth L. Shaw

 

Presented for probate on the second Monday of June, 1876, by Seneca R. Thomas, of Middleborough, with Louisa F. Thomas, Lothrop Thomas and Marcia Weston, all of Middleborough, as sureties. Letters Testamentary were granted to Seneca R. Thomas on 12 June 1876.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 142, p. 24-30, from FHL microfilm #0556649, and Vol. 133, p. 356.

 

 

Will of Seth Thomas of Middleborough, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1845) *

        In the name of God Amen, I Seth Thomas of Middleborough in the County of Plymouth and Commonwealth of Massachusetts being sick and weak of body but of sound and disposing mind memory and understanding considering the certainty of death and the uncertainty of the time thereof to the end that I may be the better prepared to leave this world when it shall please my God to call me hence, have now determined to direct what disposition shall be made of my property after my decease and after maturely considering the circumstances and condition of all those among whom as my heirs at law or the object of my gratitude or affection in my Judgement my Estate should be distributed I do make publish and declare this to be my last will and Testament hereby revoking and making null and void all former last Wills & Testaments and writings in the nature of last wills and Testaments by me heretofore made

  And my will is first that after my decease my body shall be decently buried without ostentation or unnecessary expence and that my funeral charges and just debts shall be paid by my Executor hereafter named and as to the residue of my Estate and property with which God has blessed me and which shall not be required for the payment of my debts funeral charges and the Expences in and about the Execution of this my will and the administration of my Estate I give divise and dispose thereof as follows, viz

Item I give and bequeath to my son John Thomas Twenty dollars to be paid him in six months after my decease.

Item I give and bequeath to my four daughters that are now living Thirty dollars each to be paid by my Executor in six months after my decease.

Item, I give and bequeath to my Grandson Freeman T. Meglathly Thirty dollars to be paid by my Executor in nine months after my decease.

Item I give and bequeath to my Grandson Jacob Thomas the son of Nathanel Thomas thirty dollars to be paid by my Executor in four months after my decease,

Item, I give and bequeath to my Grandson John Williams Thomas one hundred dollars to be paid to my Executor in one year after my decease,

Item I give and bequeath to my two grandaughters the daughters of my son Nathaniel Thomas Mary Ann Robbins and Harriet Thomas Ten dollars Each to be paid by my Executor in three months after my decease,

Item I give and bequeath to the above named grand daughters all my household furniture after my decease.

Item I give and bequeath to my three grand daughter the daughters of my son Cyrus Thomas deceased five dollars each to be paid them by my Executor in one year after my decease

Item I give and bequeath to my son Samuel Thomas my surtone

Item, I give and bequeath to my son Jacob Thomas my best frock coat.

Item. I give and bequeath to my two Grand sons Jacob Thomas and John Williams Thomas all my wearing apparel which is not heretofore named

Item I further give and bequeath to my two sons Samuel Thomas and Jacob Thomas all the rest and residue of my property that is not heretofore disposed of,

and I do nominate and appoint my two sons Saml Thomas and Jacob Thomas to be the Executors of this my last will and Testament,

        In testamony whereof I the said Seth Thomas have to this my last Will and Testament contained on one sheet of paper I have hear subscribed my name and affixed my seal this Eleventh day of April in the year of our Lord one Thousand Eight hundred and forty five.

                                                                                                                                                Seth Thomas                                      (seal)

Signed, Sealed and declared by the said Seth Thomas to be his last Will and testament in presence of us who at his request and in his presence have subscribed our names as witnesses hereto.

        Jonathan Cobb

        Benjamin F. Thomas

        Nancy Wood

 

Presented for probate on the first Tuesday of July 1845 by Samuel Thomas and Jacob Thomas, the Executors therein named, and proved by Jonathan Cobb and Benjamin F. Thomas, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters Testamentary were granted to Samuel Thomas and Jacob Thomas, the executors therein named.

 

Samuel Thomas, of Quincy, County of Norfolk, and Jacob Thomas, of Middleborough, were granted Letters Testamentary on the Estate of Seth Thomas, late of Middleborough, on 1 July 1845, with Jonathan Cobb and Benjamin F. Thomas, both of Middleborough, as sureties.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 87, p. 284-286, from FHL microfilm #0555638, and Vol. 1G, p. 437.

 

 

Will of Silvanus Thomas of Middleborough, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1814) *

   In the Name of God amen. I Silvanus Thomas of Middleborough in the County of Plymouth in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts Yeoman being advanced in years & labouring under Infirmities of my Body, wherefore calling to Mind the Mortality of my Body knowing that it is appointed to all men once to die, I do hereby make & ordain this to be my last will & Testament to remain firm & inviolable forever: Principally and first of all I give my Soul to God that gave it, & I give my Body to the Dust to be buried in a decent Manner at the discretion of my Friends & Executor hereafter named, in hopes that the same will be raised again at the General Resurrection – and as to such worldly Estate, as it hath pleased God to bless me with, I do hereby dispose of the same as followeth – namely –

                Imprimis I give & bequeath to my well beloved Wife Susanna Thomas & to her Heirs & Assigns forever one third part of all my personal Estate agreeably to Law, I also give unto her the use & Improvement of one third part of my Real Estate so long as she shall remain my Widow.–

                Item I give & bequeath to my Daughter Mary Thomas Wife of Henry Thomas & to her Heirs & Assigns forever two hundred & fifty Dollars to be paid to her, as I shall hereafter in this Will order in one Year after my Decease –

                Item I give & bequeath unto my Daughter Cynthia Thomas & to her Heirs & assigns forever three hundred Dollars to be paid her as I shall hereafter order by this Will in one Year after my decease, I also give unto her the use and Improvement of the westerly great Room in my Dwelling house together with such privilege, as she shall need for her own use in my Kitchen, Oven, Well, Cellar, Doorway & to get Apples in my Orchard, & also to get Firewood on my Land so long as she shall live unmarried, but the several Articles, that I give her while she shall live unmarried I give her only to use & improve herself & not to sell or let out to any other person. –

                Item I give & bequeath to my Daughter Sarah Pratt during her natural Life the use & Improvement of two hundred & forty Dollars, to commence in one Year after my Decease, and at the decease of my said Daughter Sarah my Will is & I do hereby give the said two hundred & forty Dollars in equal proportion to all of the Children of the said Sarah, or to the legal Heirs of any of said Sarah’s Children, that may die before my said Daughter Sarah. –

                Item I give & bequeath to my Son John Thomas & Daughter Cynthia Thomas & to their Heirs & Assigns forever in equal halves all of the parts of Pews that I own in all Meeting houses.–

                Item I give & bequeath to my four Sons namely William Thomas, Silvanus Thomas Junr, John Thomas & Shubael Thomas & to their Heirs & assigns forever in equal proportion all of the remaining part & Residue of my Estate of every sort, on condition that they in equal proportion shall pay all of my just Debts, funeral Charge the Expence of settling of my Estate, & all of the foregoing Legacies, as I have mentioned them in their order. –

                Lastly my Will is & I do hereby appoint my Son John Thomas sole Executor of this my last Will & Testament, & I hereby do revoke & disannul all former Wills made by me –

            Thus hoping that this my last will & Testament will be kept & performed according to the true Intent & meaning thereof, I the before named Silvanus Thomas have hereunto set my hand & Seal this eleventh day of July in the Year of our Lord eighteen hundred & fourteen –

Signed, sealed, published, pronounced & declared

by the said Silvanus Thomas, to be his last Will

and Testament in presence of us --                                                                                   Silvanus Thomas                              (seal)

                Lydia Cushing

                Zilpah  X  Thomas

                Isaac Thomson

 

Presented for probate on 29 Sept. 1814 by John Thomas, the Executor therein named, and proved by Isaac Thomson Esqr. and Lydia Cushing, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to John Thomas, the before named Executor.

 

Isaac Thomson Esqr., Perez Thomas and Samuel Cobb, Gentlemen, all of Middleborough, were appointed to appraise the Estate of Silvanus Thomas, late of Middleborough, Gentleman, on 29 Sept. 1814. The Inventory of the Estate of Silvanus Thomas, late of Middleborough, dated 1 Nov. 1814, totaled $3821.54, his real estate totaled $3185, including fifty acres containing the home farm and buildings valued at $1750, and several other parcels of land. John Thomas, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 23 Apr. 1815.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 45, p. 498-499, from FHL microfilm #0550903, and Vol. 47, p. 187.

 

 

Will of Solomon Thomas of Middleborough, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1820) *

        Be it remembered that I Solomon Thomas of Middleborough in the county of Plymouth, Yeoman, being of sound mind and memory do this sixteenth day of February A.D. One thousand eight hundred and twenty make and publish this my last Will & Testament, in manner following, that is to say,

        Imprimis, I give and devise to my son Lothrop Thomas my homestead farm on which I now dwell and all my other Real Estate and all my farming utensils, to have and to hold the same to him the said Lothrop Thomas his heirs and assigns forever, he paying all my just debts and the legacies hereafter named.

        Item, I bequeath to my daughter Clarissa Thomas fifty dollars to be paid by my Executor in twelve months after my decease if it should not be paid before.

        Item, I bequeath to my daughter Elizabeth Thomas fifty dollars to be paid by my Executor in twelve months after my decease if it should not be paid before, and also the use and improvement of my West great room in my dwelling house so long as she shall live unmarried.

        Item, I bequeath to my daughter Polly Thomas the wife of Ebenezer Thomas of Bridgewater in the State of Vermont one Dollar to be paid by my Executor in twelve months after my decease.

        Item, I bequeath to my daughter Sally Bishop the wife of Zenas Bishop of Middleborough one Dollar to be paid by my Executor in twelve months after my decease.

        And lastly I do constitute and ordain my said son Lothrop Thomas sole executor of this my last Will & Testament.

        In testimony whereof I do hereunto set my hand and seal the day and year above written.

                                                                                                                                                Solomon Thomas                             (seal)

Signed, sealed, published, pronounced and declared by the said

Solomon Thomas as and for his last Will and Testament in the

presence of us who at his request and in his presence hereunto

set our names as witnesses to the same.

        Seth Miller Jr.

        Darius Miller

        Seth Miller 3d.

 

Probated on 2 Nov. 1830, proved by Darius Miller and Seth Miller 3d, two of the witnesses.

Letters of administration granted to Lothrop Thomas, of Middleborough, yeoman.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 69, p. 428-429, from FHL microfilm #0555260.

 

 

Will & Codicil of Susannah Thomas of Middleborough, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1830) *

        In the name of God, Amen, I Susannah Thomas of Middleborough in the County of Plymouth, being weak in body but of sound and perfect mind and memory blessed be Almighty God for the same do make and publish this my last Will and Testament in manner and form following (that is to say)

        First I give and bequeath unto my beloved Mother Deborah Southworth One hundred and fifty Dollars to be put into the hands of Nehemiah Bennett to be used by her if she shall need it for her comfortable support.

        I also give and bequeath all my moveables and personal property excepting securities and that is due to me, to be equally divided between my sisters Polly Wood wife of Ansel Wood, Sally Bennet wife of Nehemiah Bennet and Deborah Shurtleff wife of William Shurtleff.

        I also give and bequeath the two lots of land of mine which lie in Middleborough and all the money that is in any way due to me that is not herein before given to my Mother as follows, to the six children of Ichabod Thomas one fourth part to be equally divided between them. The Note I hold against the said Ichabod & signed by him promising to pay me one hundred and twelve dollars and forty two cents dated December the twenty ninth, Eighteen hundred and twenty three to be reckoned and accounted as so much of the share of his said children. And to Susan Wood the only child of Ansel Wood I give one fourth part of the same. And to Harriet Bennet and Charles H. Bennet the children of Nehemiah Bennet I give one fourth part of the same. Also I give to Sally S. Shurtleff, Jane E. Shurtleff and William H. Shurtleff the children of William Shurtleff one fourth part of the same. And it is my Will that the above named land shall be sold and the money put at interest where the above named Ichabod, Ansel and Nehemiah or any two of them shall think proper. If any of the legacy herein given to my Mother Deborah Southworth shall remain at her decease, then it is my Will that it be equally divided among all the abovenamed legatees. All the foregoing legacies herein given to the children of Ichabod Thomas to be in his hands and at interest. Also all that is given to Susan S. Wood to be kept in the hands of her father Ansel Wood and at interest. Also all that I have bequeathed to the children of Nehemiah Bennet and the children of William Shurtleff to be kept in the hands of said Nehemiah and on interest; said Nehemiah giving security with a good and Sufficient surety to deliver to each legatee their full Share whenever they shall become of lawful age and the said Ichabod Thomas and Ansel Wood are to deliver to their children their respective shares whenever either of them shall become of lawful Age.

        If any of the minor legatees mentioned in this my Will shall die before they become of lawful age and leave no heirs descended from them then the legacy to that child to be equally divided among its Brothers and Sisters. And if any or either of my brother or sisters shall outlive all his or her children, that brother or sister is to have the use of the share that was given to their child or children during their lives and then the principal is to be equally divided among the surviving legatees herein mentioned.

        And lastly I give and bequeath to my brother Ichabod Thomas all my right and interest in and to a certain meadow lying in Plympton called the Winatuxet Meadow that I own in common and undivided with the said Ichabod and also whatever he may be indebted to me for the past use and improvement of the same.

        And I hereby appoint the said Ichabod Thomas sole Executor of this my last Will and Testament hereby revoking all former Wills by me made.

        In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal the third day of June in the Year of Our Lord Eighteen hundred & thirty.

                                                                                                                                                Susannah Thomas                           (seal)

Signed, sealed, published and declared by the above named Susannah Thomas to be her last Will and Testament in the presence of us who at her request and in her presence have hereunto set our names as witnesses to the same.

        Charles Hooper

        Charles S. Bennett

        Polly E. Bennett

 

        I Susannah Thomas of Middleborough in the County of Plymouth do this thirtieth day of June in the Year of Our Lord Eighteen hundred and thirty make and publish this Codicil to my last Will and Testament in manner following, that is to say, whereas in my last Will and Testament I have given my moveables as therein expressed to be divided among my sisters, it is my Will and I hereby give to my beloved Mother Deborah Southworth the use and improvement of all my furniture and moveables during her natural life and then to be divided as expressed in said Will. And I give and bequeath to the said Deborah the note of hand I hold against Abraham Thomas and signed by the said Abraham and the same paid to the said Deborah for her own use and benefit.

        And lastly it is my desire that this my present Codicil be annexed to and made a part of my last Will and Testament to all intents and purposes.

        In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this thirtieth day of June in the Year of Our Lord Eighteen hundred and thirty.

                                                                                                                                                Susannah Thomas                           (seal)

        Signed, sealed, published and declared by the above named Susannah Thomas as a Codicil to be annexed to her last Will and Testament in presence of us

                Charles Hooper

                Charles S. Bennet

                Polly E. Bennet

 

Probated on 2 Nov. 1830, and proved by Charles Hooper, Charles S. Bennet and Polly E. Bennet, the witnesses. Letters of administration given to Ichabod Thomas, of Middleborough, yeoman.

 

Darius Miller, Gentleman, Nathaniel Staples, Gentleman, and Nathaniel Macomber, Yeoman, all of Middleborough, were appointed to appraise the estate of Susannah Thomas, late of Middleborough, Singlewoman, on 2 Nov. 1830. The Inventory, dated 20 Dec. 1830, totaled $370.20, including the Real Estate, valued at $288, and the Personal Estate, valued at $82.20. Ichabod Thomas, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 21 Feb. 1831.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 69, p. 437-440, and Vol. 70, p. 81-82, both from FHL microfilm #0555260.

 

 

Will of William Thomas of Middleborough, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1727) *

In the Name of God Amen. I William Thomas Senr of Middleborough in the County of Plymouth in New-England being weak of Body but of Sound & perfect mind & Memory Blessed be God for it, and knowing that it is appointed for all men once to dy do make & Ordain this to be my last Will & Testament. Principally & first of all I Give & Recommend my Soul to God that gave it, Hoping that in & through ye Lord Jesus Christ to obtain full & free Pardon of all my Sins & to Inherit Eternal Happiness And as to my Body I Commit it to the Earth to be decently buried at ye Discretion of my Executors hereafter named. And as to my worldly Estate I dispose of ye Same as follows viz.—

1. It is my Will that all ye Debts which I justly owe & my Funeral Charges be paid by my Executors in Convenient time after my Decease—

2. I Give & Bequeath unto my dearly beloved Wife Sarah Thomas two Cows out of my Stock which She likes best; And the Incomes of all that Homestead or Farm whereon I now dwell in Middleborough aforesd until my Son Jabez comes of Age & then She to have the one half of the Incomes or Profits of my sd Homestead until my Son Ephraim comes of Age, And also all my Indoor Moveables & Houshold Goods for her own use & Support of her Self & my Children as She thinks proper while they live with her, And if any Remains unspent at her decease then to be equally Divided amongst all my Children—But in Case my Wife should Marry before my sd Sons or either of them come of Age then the Incomes or Profits to Cease & She to have ye sd Incomes or Profits no longer—

3. I Give & Bequeath to my two Sons Jabez Thomas & Ephraim Thomas & their Heirs & assigns forever All my Homestead both Dwelling house Buildings & Farm whereon I now dwell to be equally divided between them according to Quality & Quantity when my Son Jabez comes of Age; And also my Lot of Land lying in the Little Lot Mens Purchase in Middleborough aforesd lying in the long Swamp calld the 12th Lot this I Give to them & their Heirs & assigns to be divided as aforesd—And when my sd two Sons Jabez & Ephraim come of Ages they are to keep Each of them a Cow for my Wife & to pay her twelve Pounds a year in equal Proportion if my sd Wife remains my Widow & so as long as She is my Widow & no longer, And after my sd Sons come of Ages my Wife if She remains my Widow to have the Improvement of one fire Room in my Dwelling house & my sd Sons to find her fire Wood so long as She remains my Widow—

3. I Give & Bequeath to my Sons William Thomas & David Thomas All that my Farm of Land whereon my sd Son William now dwells Adjoining to ye Land of Seth Howland Sold to Ebenezer Sprout in ye Little Mans Purchase aforesd—to be equally divided between them according to Quantity & Quality My sd Son William to have ye Liberty to take his Part on that Side where his Buildings now Stand. Also I Give to them my two Lots of Land in sd Purchase lying at ye Indian Rusging[?] Place at or near Chushamuttork equally to be divided between them by aforesd all which I Give to them their Heirs & assigns forever in Such manner as aforesaid

4. I Give & Bequeath to my Son Israel Thomas his Heirs & assigns forever, All that my Lot of Land lying in sd Purchase lying upon the Brook running out of ye great pine Swamp into into Elkanah Leonards Iron Works Pond. And also my Lot of Land in sd Purchase lying between Never Such Pond (so called) & ye Great Pine Swamp & all my Lands lying in ye Sixteen Shilling Purchase & assawamsett neck in sd Middleborough—

5. My two Lots and a half Lot of Land lying at Jons Meadow so called, in sd Little Lot Mens Purchase I Give to be equally Divided between the Children & legal Representatives of my two Daughters Joanna Cobb & Susanna Smith viz: One half thereof to my sd Daughter Joanna’s Children & the other Half to my sd Daughter Susanna’s Children, To ym & yr Heirs & assigns forever.

6. All my Lands & Cedar Swamp lying in the South Purchase in Middleborough aforesd I Give to be Divided equally to & amongst all my Sons their Heirs & assigns forever -

7. I Give to my Daughter Sarah Ransom or to those that legally Represent her fifteen Pounds. And to my Daughter Mary or those that legally represent her the Sum of Twenty Pounds. And to my Daughter Lois the Sum of twenty Pounds. And to my Daughter Eunice ye Sum of twenty Pounds: And to my Daughter Betty the Sum of Twenty Pounds, or to them yt Shall legally Represent my sd three Daughters. And further its my Will yt all my Sons, or them that legally represent them shall pay these Legacies to my Daughters or their legal Representatives in Money or Cattel at money Price within One Year after my Decease, those Payments to be equally born by all my Sons &c—

8. All my Stock of Creatures (after my Wife has taken out her two Cows) I Give equally to be divided to and amongst all my children now Surviving or to those yt legally represent them—

9. My Cart & Wheels & Furniture for four Oxen & one Plough & Grindstone I Give equally between my two Sons Jabez & Ephraim And the remainder of my Chains Yokes & Husbandry tools I Give equally to be divided among my other three Sons—

Finally I Constitute & Appoint my dearly beloved Wife Sarah Thomas & my Eldest Son William Thomas Executors of this my last Will & Testament to pay my Debts & funeral Charges & I Give them all Debts due to Me to Enable them to do it hereby allowing this & no other to be my last Will & Testament — In Witness whereof I have hereunto Set my hand & Seal the twenty Second day of November Annoq. Dom.—1727—

Signed Sealed Published Pronounced & Declared by ye sd                                         William Thomas

Willm Thomas to be his last Will & Testament                                                                                       W

In the Presence of us Samuel Barrows                                                                                  his Mark

Ebenezer Redding  Ebenezer Bennett  Elkanh Leonard

 

Proved on April the 27: 1734 by Samuel Barrows, Ebenezer Redding, & Ebenezer Bennett.

Administration of the estate of William Thomas was granted on 1 May 1734 to Sarah Thomas, Relict widow of ye deceased, & William Thomas, eldest Son of ye deceased.

 

Mr. Samuel Barrow, Capt. Nathaniel Southworth, and Mr. Jacob Tomson, all of Middleborough, were appointed to appraise the estate of William Thomas, late of Middleborough, on 27 Apr. 1734. The Inventory of the Estate both real & personal of Mr. Wm Thomas late of Middleborough, dated 10 Sept. 1734, totaled £2126.6.7, including £176.5 in neat cattel, his homestead valued at £740, his two lots of land being the 24th & 25th lots in the Little Lot Mens Purchase valued at £530, and several other smaller lots of land. Sarah Thomas and Wm Thomas, the Executors, gave their oath to the inventory on 19 Sept. 1734.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 7, pp. 31-32, 59-61, from FHL microfilm #0550513.

 

 

Will of William Thomas Jr. of Middleborough, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1762) *

In the Name of God amen, William Thomas junr of the Town of Middleborough in the County of plimo. in New England yeoman laboring under the Infirmitys of body but of perfect and Disposeing Memory, Thanks be given to Almighty God for the same But Calling to mind the Mortallity of my body and knowing that it is Appointed for all men once to Dye do make and Ordain this my last will & Testament—

Imprimis I will and bequeath my Soule unto allmighty God that gave it and my body unto the dust to be decently buried at the discretion of my Executor—

And as Touching that worldly Estate wherewith it hath pleased God to bless me in this life I dispose of as followeth   Item, I will and bequeath unto my loveing wife Mary Thomas the Sole improvement of my farm or Tenament whereon I now dwell so long as She remains my widdow together with One Cow and One third part of my moveable Estate dureing her natural life.

Item To my loveing son John Thomas I Give in Labour or Materials for Building to the value of Ten pounds this with what I have already Given him I Esteem his full proportion of my Estate.

Item. I Give to my loveing son Silvanus Thomas the sum of thirteen Shillings & four pence out of my Estate this with what I have allready Given him I Esteem his full proportion of my Estate.

Item, I Give unto my loveing sons David Thomas & Phinehas Thomas after the Legacys & Just Debts and funeral Charges are first paid out I Give them my Homestead and buildings & moveables within Doors & without said David paying Phineas Eight pounds then Equally between them, to them & their heirs & assigns forever,   Item I Give to my daughter Mercy Tinkham four pounds to be paid her out of my moveable Estate.

Item, I Give unto my Daughter Remember Thomas Thirteen pounds Six shillings & eight pence in moveables out of my Estate

Item I Give to my Daughter Hulda Thomas thirteen pounds Six Shillings & eight pence in moveables out of my Estate.   Lastly I nominate & appoint my Loveing son David Thomas to be the sole Execr. of this my last will & Testament hereby revokeing all other and former wills either written or verbal by me heretofore made or done, hereby ratyfieing & Confirming this my last will to remain firm & Inviolable, In Testimony whereof I the said William Thomas have hereunto set my hand the 21st day of August Anno Domini 1762

Signed Sealed pronounced & declared by the aforesd. William                                  William Thomas               (seal)

Thomas to be his last Will & Testament In presence of us

Mary Shaw    Patience x Shaw    Jona. Shaw junr.

 

Presented for probate on 6 Aug. 1764 by David Thomas, the Executor, and proved by Mary Shaw and Jonathan Shaw junr, two of the witnesses.

 

The Inventory of the estate of William Thomas Junr., late of Middleborough, not dated, was appraised by Edmond Wood, Elkanah Shaw Junr. and Jonathan Shaw Junr., and totaled £385.8.2¾, including his homestead house and barn valued at £266.13.4. The appraisers gave their oath to the inventory on 10 Dec. 1764, and David Thomas, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 30 Oct. 1765.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 19, pp. 98-99, 332, from FHL microfilm #0550711.

 

 

Will of William Thomas of Marshfield, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1796) *

        In the name of God Amen. On the 4th day of October anno Domini 1796: I William Thomas of Marshfield in the county of Plymouth Gentleman, being under some decays of body, but of sound mind and memory, thanks be given to God therefor; calling to mind the mortality of my body, and knowing that it is appointed for all men once to die, do make & ordain this my last will & testament, that is to say,

        Imprimis, my will is, that all my just debts & funeral charges be paid out of my Estate

        Item. I Give and bequeath unto my dutiful & eldest son William Thomas junr. forever, all my wearing apparell, thirteen hundred & thirty three dollars, thirty three cents & three mills, or £400.0.0 in money; my third bed in value, with a good bedstead, Cord & other bedding suitable for the same; one yoke of oxen & one Cow of a middling value, or their value in money; said oxen & cow, or their value, to be delivered to the said William within two years after my decease; and I likewise give to the said William for the term of four years next after my decease, the use & improvement of that piece of salt marsh lying in the south River marsh in this town, which I bought of Nathan Thomas; and I also give him the said William, liberty to cut fire wood necessary for his own family’s use on my pine lot in this town, where he now cuts it, so long as there shall be wood thereon; and he shall live so near said lot that he can make use of the wood for that purpose. And in case, that the said William should decease before his present wife, then my will is, that his widow, so long as she remains his widow, should have the same liberty to cut fire wood as her husband would have had if living

        Item. I Give and bequeath unto my daughter Mary Simmons Eighty Dollars in money, forever

        Item. I Give and bequeath unto my daughter Sarah Baker, twenty dollars forever, and if she should be ever left a widow, I then give her the said Sarah, an annuity of Ten Dollars for the term of twelve years, the first ten dollars to be paid within twelve months after her husband’s decease

        Item. I Give and bequeath unto my well beloved wife, Abiah, during her life, the use or improvement of the one half part of all my Estate, both real & personal, which I have not before given away in this will

        Item. I Give and bequeath unto my Son Luther Thomas forever the whole of my estate, both real & personal, which I have not before given away in this will, constituting and appointing him, the said Luther, to be the sole Executor of this my last will and testament.

And if either of my children shall exhibit any account for allowance out of my estate, my will is, that each and every such child shall have but seven dollars out of my estate, any thing in this will to the contrary notwithstanding.— And I do hereby revoke and utterly disallow, and disannul every other former will or testament by me made, Ratifying this and no other to be my last will & testament. In Witness whereof, I have hereunto set my hand & seal, the day & year above written

Signed, Sealed & declared by the said

William Thomas, to be his last will                                                                                  William Thomas                               (seal)

& testament in the presence of us the

subscribers

                Luke Wadsworth

                Nathll. Thomas

                Miriam Baker

 

Presented for probate on 21 Aug. 1798 by Luther Thomas, the Executor therein named, and proved by Luke Wadsworth & Nathaniel Thomas, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 36, p. 406-407, from FHL microfilm #0550719.

 

 

Will of Winslow Thomas of Middleborough, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1843) *

        I Winslow Thomas of Middleborough in the County of Plymouth Calling to mind the mortality of man, and being of sound mind and memory do make this my last will and testament in manner and form as follows, viz.

        It is my Will that my Executor cause that my just debts and incidental charges be paid out of the effects of my estate and the residue thereof I give in the following manner. I give and bequeath to my beloved wife Charity Thomas the Improvement of all my real estate so long as she the said Charity remain my widow and no longer. I also give & bequeath to my beloved wife Charity Thomas the sole use and improvement of all my personal estate after my Just debts are paid this last itim is not to exclude the sale of wood lots for the payment of debts. –

        It is my Will that after the decease of my beloved wife Charity Thomas my real and personal estate excepting household furniture shall descend and go to my Children in the following manner, and first I give to my son George S. Thomas One hundred dollars for the following purpose to the use and exclusive bennifit of his Children or the Children of the aforesaid George S Thomas their heirs and assigns forever It is my Will that the said George S. Thomas shall have after my decease my best Coat, best pantaloons & vest. – I give to my son Winslow Thomas my part of a lot of Ceder Swamp situated in Carver and is the same I own in Company with Eleazer Thomas to him the said Winslow his heirs and assigns forever.

        I give to my son Arad Thomas twenty dollars after the decease of my beloved wife Charity Thomas – Also I Give the said Arad Thomas my best Hat, to him his heirs and assigns forever

        I give to my daughter Lucretia J Sears five dollars of my estate after the decease of my said wife Charity Thomas to her the said Lucretia J. her heirs and assigns forever.

        I give to my daughter Emiline Thomas fifty five dollars of my estate after the decease of my said wife Charity Thomas to her the said Emiline her heirs and assigns forever

        I give to my daughter Francis M. Thomas her support and bringing up out of my estate untill she the said Francis M. may arrive to the age of eighteen years, and that she the said Francis M. After arriving at the age of eighteen may have a right to live in my house so long as she shall remain single and unmarried. Also I give the said Francis M. fifty five dollars of my estate after after the decease of my said wife Charity Thomas to her the said Francis M. her heirs and assigns forever.

        I give to my two sons William R. Thomas and Benjamin Thomas after the decease of my beloved wife Charity Thomas all the remainder or residue of my estate both real & personal (excepting the household furniture) providing they the said William R. & Benjamin should live and work on the farm or give up their earnings for the benefit of the Estate untill they each of them shall arrive to the age of twenty one years.— Providing that if either of the last named William R. and Benjamin should go to a Trade or take their own earnings to themselves in that Case the one that leaves and takes his own earnings shall have but fifty dollars in money to them and their heirs and assigns forever.

        I also Give to all my children and in an equal proportion to each one of them after the decease of my beloved wife Charity Thomas all my household furniture to them their heirs and assigns forever.

        And I do revoke all other Wills made before by me and establish this my last Will and Testament, appointing William Shurtliff 2d. my sole Executor thereof.

        In testimony of which I do hereunto set my hand and seal, Middleborough September the sixth day Eighteen hundred and forty three.

                                                                                                                                                Winslow Thomas                             (seal)

Signed Sealed published and

declared by the above named

Winslow Thomas to be his last

Will and testament in the

presence of us who have

hereunto subscribed our names

as witnesses in the presence of

the testator.

        Samuel Thompson

        George Bennett

        Charles H Thomas

 

Presented for probate on the third Monday of Jan. 1844 by William Shurtleff 2d, the Executor therein named, and proved by Samuel Thompson, George Bennett and Charles H. Thomas, the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters Testamentary were granted to William Shurtliff 2d, the Executor therein named.

 

William Shurtleff 2d, of Middleborough, was granted Letters Testamentary on the Estate of Winslow Thomas, late of Middleborough, Yeoman, on 15 Jan. 1844, with Samuel Thompson and Benjamin Thomas, both of Middleborough, as sureties.

Samuel Thompson, Benjamin Thomas and Dura Weston, all of Middleborough, were appointed to appraise the estate of Winslow Thomas, late of Middleborough, on 4 Dec. 1843.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Winslow Thomas, late of Middleborough, Yeoman, was appraised on 16 Dec. 1843, his real estate totaled $2289.67, including his homestead farm and buildings valued at $1832.67, and his personal estate totaled $529.41. William Shurtliff 2d, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on the third Monday of Jan. 1844.

 

Ichabod F. Atwood of Middleborough petitioned to be appointed as Administrator with the will annexed of the estate not already administered of Winslow Thomas, late of Middleborough, on the second Monday of July 1869, William Shurtleff 2nd, the appointed executor having since deceased without fully executing the will. Ichabod F. Atwood was granted Administration with the Will annexed of the estate of Winslow Thomas, late of Middleborough, on 12 July 1869, with Eleazer Thomas and James Savery as sureties.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 86, p. 10-13, from FHL microfilm #0555637, Vol. 1G, p. 272, Vol. 86, p. 38-39, and Vol. 120, p. 393.

 

 

Will of Samuel E. Thompson of Hounsfield, Jefferson County, New York (1864) *

I Samuel E Thompson of Hounsfield in the County of Jefferson, State of New York of the age of sixty five years, considering the uncertainty of this Mortal life being of sound and disposing mind & memory do make publish & declare this my last Will & Testament in manner following that is to say,

        First – I give and bequeath to my beloved wife Elvira Thompson the use of all my farm on which I now reside Together with the use of all my live stock of Evry description and all my farming tools and utensils carriages & harnesses for a horse for herself and her children remaining with her as long as She remains my widow –

        Secondly – Whereas I have advanced to my daughter Elvira Taplin wife of John Taplin a certain sum of money out of my Estate amounting to about Seven Hundred & fifty dollars more or less and in Addition to that Sum I give & bequeath to her the further sum of one Hundred and fifty dollars to paid to her as soon as convenient after my decease, which is to be in full of her share of my Estate –

        Thirdly  I give & bequeath to my son Samuel Thompson Jr. & to my daughter Fanny Thompson each the sum of nine Hundred dollars to be paid to them out of my Estate at the decease of my wife Elvira Thompson or as much sooner as my said wife may see fit and Expedient during her life time.

        Fourthly my will is that after the decease of my wife Elvira Thompson the remainder of my Estate shall be Equally divided between my two children Samuel Thompson Jr and Fanny Thompson after deducting the aforesaid legacies share & share alike

        Fifthly I hereby appoint my wife to be the sole Executrix of this my last Will & Testament, hereby revoking all other or former Wills by me made

                In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand & Seal this Twenty Seventh day of February in the year one thousand Eight Hundred & Sixty four.

                                                                                                                                                Samuel E. Thompson                      (seal)

        The foregoing instrument consisting of one sheet was at the date there of Signed Sealed published & declared by the said Samuel E. Thompson as &for his last Will & Testament in presence of us, who at his request & in his presence & in the presence of Each other have subscribed our names as witnesses thereto

                John N. Waterbury     Hounsfield –

                J. M. Thompson     Hounsfield –

 

Presented for probate on 22 Apr. 1864 by Elvira A. Thompson of Hounsfield, the heirs being Elvira A. Thompson, widow of the deceased and Fanny A. Thompson, daughter of the deceased, of full age of Hounsfield, and Samuel E. Thompson a minor son having no general guardian, of Hounsfield, and Elvira Taplin of Janesville, Wisconsin, daughter of the deceased, of full age. Approved on 5 May 1864. Wm W. Taggart was appointed as guardian of the minor for the purpose of appearing for him and taking care of his interests in this proceeding.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Jefferson County Probate Wills Vol. 10, p. 29-30, from FHL microfilm #0895395.

 

 

Will of Francis Thomson of Middleborough, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1798) *

        In the name of God Amen. I Francis Thomson of Middleborough in the county of Plymouth in the Comonwealth of Massachusetts, yeoman, being under decays of body, but blessed be God of a sound & disposing mind & memory, and calling to mind the mortality of my body, do make & ordain this to be my last will & testament, to remain firm and inviolable forever; after first giving my soul to God that gave it, and my body to the dust from whence it came, I do dispose of such worldly Estate as it hath pleased God to bless me with in the following manner—viz~.—

Imprimis, I Give & bequeath to my true & well beloved wife Mary Thomson, and to her heirs & assigns forever, the one half of my indoor moveable estate, together with my best Cow, one swine & four sheep; I also give unto my said wife, so long as she shall remain my widow, the use & improvement of one third part of my lands, barn & Corn house, and the easterly part of my dwelling house, which is to go so far westerly in the same as just to take ye Easterly front room, together with liberty to bake in the oven, & to use so much of the Porch as she shall need to get her water & do her other necessary business; I also give unto her out of the provision that I shall have at my decease a sufficiency for herself & fodder for her creatures untill a new growth of provision for her and grass for her creatures can be raised on my farm; also a Right for herself in my Pew in the meeting house; the above I mean as my wife’s right of dower in my Estate

Item. I Give & bequeath to my Son Elias Thomson & to his heirs & assigns forever, one Hundred Dollars, to be paid him in one year from my decease, by my two sons Thomas Thomson & Ruel Thomson in equal halves; I also give unto my said son Elias, my plain Irons.—

Item. I Give & bequeath to my daughter Zilpah Cushman wife to Noah Cushman, and to her heirs & assigns forever, one good Bed & furniture suitable for the same

Item. I Give & bequeath to my Son Thomas Thomson and to his heirs & assigns forever, my Swamp that I purchased of James Cobb, also the swamp that I purchased of Joseph Cushman also one half of the lands that I purchased of Levi Wood & Jane his wife & of Israel Thomas & Abigail his wife; and also two thirds of my Farming utensills & of that part of my Stock of Creatures that I have not by this my last will given to my wife; I also give to my said son Thomas, as aforesaid, one half of my provision for man or beast, that are for a market, over & above what is necessary for my family & stock of creatures; also one half of the debts that are due to me at my decease; also one third part of my indoor moveable estate, that I have not by this will given to my wife and daughter Zilpah; I also give to my said son Thomas & to his heirs & assigns forever, one quarter part of my Pew in the meeting house, excepting his mother’s right in the same; the above articles that I have given to my son Thomas, I give to him on conditions of his paying the several sums, & doing & performing all things agreeable to this my last will, I also give to my said son Thomas one half of my wearing apparell, & half my Right of the Iron mine

Item. I Give and bequeath to my son Ruel Thomson & to his heirs and assigns forever, all that part of the home farm, that I purchased of Isaac Tinkham, together with the buildings thereon, that I have not heretofore given a deed of to my son Thomas Thomson, or by this will given to my wife or daughter Molley; I also give to my said son Ruel Thomson and to his heirs & assigns forever, one half of my lands that I purchased of Levi Wood & Jane his wife, & of Israel Thomas & Abigail his wife; also the remaining part of my stock of creatures; my farming utentills & my provision for my family & stock of creatures that shall be for market and of debts due to me. I also give unto him & his heirs & assigns forever one quarter part of my Pew in the meeting house, exclusive of my wife’s right in the same, and one third part of my indoor moveable estate, that I have not by this will given to my said wife and daughter Zilpah; the above articles, that I have given to my son Ruel Thomson, I give unto him on condition of his paying the several sums, and doing & performing the several things I have directed him to do agreeable to this will; I also give to my said son Ruel one half of my wearing apparell, and half my right in the Iron mine

Item. I Give and bequeath to my daughter Cynthia Cox wife of John Cox & to her heirs & assigns forever, one quarter part of my Pew in the meeting house, excepting my wife’s right in the same

Item. I Give and bequeath to my daughter Molley Thomson & to her heirs & assigns forever, the remaining part of my Estate that I have not heretofore by this my last will disposed of, and also Fifty Dollars to be paid to her in one year after my decease, two thirds of it is to be paid by my son Thomas Thomson, & the other third is to be paid her by my son Ruel Thomson; I also give unto her liberty to live in my dwelling house, so long as she shall remain unmarried.— Furthermore my will is, and I do hereby order, my two sons, Thomas Thomson & Ruel Thomson, to pay all my just debts, funeral charges & the expence of settling my estate, in equal halves

Lastly.—My will is, & I do hereby appoint my son Thomas Thomson, sole Executor of this my last will & testament. Thus hoping that this my last will & testament will be kept & performed according to the true intent & meaning thereof. I the aforenamed Francis Thomson have hereunto set my hand & seal this twentieth day of November in the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and ninety eight

Signed, Sealed Published & pronoun-

ced by ye aforenamed Francis Thom-                                                                                              Francis Thomson             (seal)

son, to be his last will & testament

in presence of

                Jonathan Harlow

                Lemuel Harlow

                Isaac Thomson

 

Presented for probate on 31 Dec. 1798 by Thomas Thomson, the Executor therein named, and proved by Isaac Thomson Esqr, & Jonathan Harlow, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed.

 

Isaac Thomson Esqr., Jona. Harlow, yeoman, & Jabez Vaughan, Gentm., all of Middleborough, were appointed to appraise the estate of Francis Tomson, late of Middleborough, yeoman, on 31 Dec. 1798. The Inventory of the real & personal estate of Francis Thomson, late of Middleborough, not dated, totaled $1878.62, including “that part of ye home farm that he had not deeded to his son Thomas” valued at $775, the lands he purchased of Levi Wood & his wife & of Israel Thomas & his wife valued at $260, the swamp he purchased of James Cobb valued at $250, the swamp he purchased of Icha Cushman valued at $50, half a pew in the meeting house worth $30, and his right in ye Iron mine valued at only $2.50. Thos. Thomson, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 10 Apr. 1799.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 36, pp. 473-475, 568-569, from FHL microfilm #0550719.

 

 

Will of Nathan Thomson of Halifax, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1830) *

                In the name of God Amen. I Nathan Thomson of Halifax in the County of Plymouth and Commonwealth of Massachusetts Considering the uncertainty of this mortal life and being of sound mind & disposing mind and memory, (Blessed be God & my Redeemer) do make ordain, & publish this as my last Will & Testament in the manner & form following that is to say, first of all I give my body to the dust to be buried in decent christian burial at the discretion of my Executor & my Spirit to God that gave it me, And as to the worldly Estate with which God has blessed me I dispose of the same in the following – manner. Viz —

First.  I give and bequeath unto my beloved wife Elizabeth the improvement of one third part of all my Estate real and Personal during her natural life.   second I give and bequeath to my brother Thaddeus Thomson one dollar one dollar to be paid him out of my estate by my executor.  third I give and bequeath to my brother Zaccheus Thomson one dollar to be paid him out of my estate by my Executor.

Fourth.  I give and bequeath to my brother Stephen Thomson one dollar to be paid him out of my estate by my Executor.

Fifth I give & bequeath to Thomas Wood son of my sister Elizabeth deceased fifty cents to be paid him out of my Estate by my Executor.

Sixth I give and bequeath to Eliza Blanchard daughter of my said sister Elizabeth fifty cents to be paid her out of my estate by my Executor.

Seventh. I give and bequeath to Hannah Leonard daughter of my said sister Elizabeth fifty Cents to be paid her out of my estate by my Executor.

Eighth I give and bequeath to Alvira Wood daughter of my sd Sister Elizabeth fifty cents to be paid out of my estate by my Executor.

Ninth I give and bequeath unto Nathan Thompson Wood son of my said Sister Elizabeth Wood deceased all my real estate Viz – all my homestead farm in Halifax whereon I  now live together with all my part of the house and all my other buildings thereon standing and also my lot of swamp lying in Middleborough in the great Cedar swamp so called and also all my Personal Estate that shall remain after collecting all my dues and the payment of all my just debts funeral charges (reserving to my beloved wife Elizabeth the improvement of the one third part of all my Estate above bequeathed to her) and what I give to him the said Nathan Thompson Wood I give to him his heirs and assigns forever to have & to hold the same.

Lastly I do appoint Zadok Thompson Sole Executor of this my last Will and Testament hereby revoking all former wills by me made –                                                                                                                                                                                   Nathan Thomson                                (seal)

                Signed, Sealed, published, & declared by the above named Nathan

Thomson, to be his last Will and Testament in the presence of us as

witnesses in the presence of the Testator.

                Nathan Fuller

                James Bosworth 2d

                Chipman Fuller

 

Probated on 5 Dec. 1831, and proved by Nathan Fuller and Chipman Fuller, two of the witnesses. Letters of administration granted to Zadock Thompson of Halifax, Esquire.

 

Zadock Thomson, Executor of the Estate of Nathan Thomson, late of Halifax, notified the court that the estate was insolvent to pay its debts on 5 Dec. 1831.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 70, pp. 502-504, 533-534, from FHL microfilm #0555260.

 

 

Will of William Thorneycraft of Oyster Bay, Queens County, Colony of New York (1735) *

In the Name of God Amen I Wm Thorneycraft of Oysterbay in Queens County on Nassau Island within the Colony of New York Esqr. being very Sick and weak in body but of perfect mind and memory praised be God for the same but Knowing the certainty of Death and uncertain hour of its approach Do make this my Last Will & Testament in manner and form following, My Soul I bequeath to God who gave it my body to the Earth from whence it came in certain hopes of a Joyfull Resurrection and Reunion at the Last Day & of Eternal Salvation through the Sole Merrits of my Redeemer Christ Jesus and for my Worldly Estate wherewith it hath pleased God to bless me I devise and bequeath the same as follows, Imprimis I Will and bequeath that funerall Charges and other my Just Debts be paid and Satisfyed, Item I Will and bequeath that all my Mesuages Land meadows Tenements Houses Goods Chattles and all other my moveable Effects to be sold Excepting what is hereafter mentioned, and I do hereby give and grant unto my Executors hereafter mentioned full Power and Authority to sell and Convey the same, Item I give and bequeath to my well beloved Wife Tamsine that is after my Debts and Legacies hereafter mentioned being paid, one third part of my whole Estate to her use and behoof During Life and after her Decease to be Equally Divided between my four Sons Thomas, William, Charles, and John their heirs and the Survivors of them Item I give and bequeath to my beloved Son William the sum of Fifty Pounds more then his Equall part with the Rest of my Sons to him and his heirs for ever Item I give and bequeath to my beloved Daughter Mercy the sum of Ten pounds and one bed and furniture and if she should Dye before she come of age then to my Daughter Mary, Item I give and Bequeath to my beloved Daughter Mary the sum of Ten Pounds and one bed and furniture and if she should Dye before shee come of age then to my Daughter Mercy Item I give and bequeath to my beloved Daughter Phebe the sum of five Pounds to her and her heirs, Item I give and bequeath that is after the Debts Dowrey Legacys aforesaid be paid and Levyed out of all my Estate the Remainder thereof to my four Sons Thomas, William, Charles and John to be Equally Divided between them and if any of them Dye before they come of age or without heirs then to be equally Divided between the Survivors, Item I constitute make Ordain Mercy – my well beloved Wife and my two Sons Thomas and William and my beloved Friend Joseph Wood and David Vallantine Executors of this my Last Will and Testament and I do hereby Utterly Disallow Revoke and Disannull all and every other former Testaments Wills Legacies Bequests and Executors by me any ways before named Willed and bequeathed Ratifying and confirming this and no other to be my Last Will and Testament, In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and Seal the Eighth Day of April Anno Domini 1735 and in the Eighth year of his Magties Reign King George the second &c.

                                                                                                                                                William Thornycraft                       (seal)

Signed Sealed Published Pronounced and Declared by the said William Thornycraft as his Last Will and Testament in the Presence of us the subscribers

Michael Mudge

Benjamin Thornycraft

Thos. Reble

 

Letters of Administration on the estate of Wm Thorneycraft were granted to Thomas Thornicraft and William Thornicraft, two of the Executors, Tamsen Thornicraft, Mercy Thornicraft, Joseph Wood, and David Vallantine having relinquisht the office, on 24 Jan. 1735[/36].

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from New York County Probate, Vol. 12, p. 390-393 copied from original Liber 12, p. 420-423 He would have been the brother of Hannah Thorneycraft, second wife of John Washburn (3rd), of Hempstead, New York.

 

 

Will of Thomas Tilden of Marshfield, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1704) *

Marshfield February 1st 1704

I Thomas Tilden of Marshfield in the County of Plimouth being in helth & of Sound mind and memory (tho verry aged) Praised be God) Considering the time of my Disolution Draweth near Do make this my Last Will & Testament in manner & form – following first I Committ my Soul to God and my Body to Decent Buriall When it shall please God to Call me hence in hope of a Joyfull Resurrection to Life & Glory through the precious merritts of my Lord & Saviour Jesus Christ And for the Disposall of my outward Estate Which God hath Graciously given me my mind & will is that it shall be bestowed as This my Will is Set Down

Impr My Will is that my well Beloved Wife Mary shall have the One half of all my houseing & Lands of what Kind or nature Soever for & Dureing the Terme of her Naturall Life. Item I Give and Bequeath unto my Son Thomas Tilden all The other half of my Houseing and Lands & also the Afforesd Half of my Houseing & Lands Bequeathed to my Wife I Give to my Son Thomas Tilden to Be Enjoyed by him after his mothers Decease To Have & to Hold to him & his Heirs forever he Therefore paying to my son in Law Anthony Sprague the Sum of Seven Pounds Remaining Due of my Daughter Mary his Wifes Portion for which he has my Bill, moreover I Give to my Daughter Mary Sprague five Shillings, Item I Give & bequeath to my Daughter Lidia Rider twenty Shillings Over & above the portion I have formerly given her, Item I Give & Bequeath to my Daughter Margery the sum of Ten pounds, Item I Give & Bequeath to my wellbeloved Wife my best bed and furniture & One third part of All my Goods & Chattells my Debts & Legacys aforesd being first paid, & all the Remainder of my Goods & Chattells I Give & bequeath to my four daughters Hannah Elizabeth Margery and Experience to be Equally Divided amongst them, Only first I Give my Daughter Elizabeth Twenty Shillings, Lastly I nominate and appoint my Well Beloved wife Mary Tilden & my Son Thomas Tilden to be Executors of this my Last Will and Testament In Witness Whereof I have Hereunto Set my hand & Seale the Day Above Said

Signed Sealed & Declared                                                                                                                                 Thomas Tilden  T T  his marke                  (seal)

By the abovesd Thomas Tilden

to Be his Last Will & Testament

in presence of Us

Tobias Oakman  2  his marke

Elizabeth Oakman  X  her marke

Nathaniel Thomas

 

Probated on 21 May 1705, and proved by Tobias Oaksman and Elizabeth Oaksman.

 

Marshfield April 27th 1705 An Inventory taken of the Goods and Chattell of Thomas Tilden Lately Deceased by the Subscribers hereof

[Totaled £74.1.0]

Thomas Macomber

Stephen Tilden

 

Mary Tilden & Thomas Tilden her son, Executors of the will of Thomas Tilden, late of Marshfield, gave their oath to the inventory on 21 May 1705.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 2, p. 89 [will], and p. 60 [inventory], from FHL microfilm #0550748.

 

 

Will of Hamblin Tillson of Plymouth, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1850) *

        In the name of God, Amen. I Hamblin Tillson of Plymouth in the County of Plymouth and State of Massachusetts, Cordwainer, being in feeble health, but of sound and disposing mind and memory, do make and publish this my last Will & Testament viz:

1st I direct my Executor hereinafter named, to pay all my just debts and funeral expenses and cause to be erected monuments or gravestones to designate the place of my burial, and also that of my deceased wife and to enclose the same with such a fence as he may choose or think proper

2nd I direct that my Executor hereinafter named shall have Fifty Dollars for settling my estate

3rd I give, devise, and bequeath to my four grand children of my son Henry, deceased, each Five Dollars.

4th I give, devise and bequeath to my grand child the daughter of my daughter Susan, deceased, Ten Dollars

5th I give, devise, and bequeath to my daughter Abby, my Clock, great Arm Chair, Concordance, a Chest, and two silver Tea Spoons

6th I give, devise and bequeath to my daughter Ann, my two beds, the pillows and bolsters belonging thereto, one silver table Spoon a sea Chest & the Practice of Piety

7  I give devise and bequeath to my daughter Maria, my Desk, iron bound Trunk, Commentary on the Psalms a white clothes Chest and two silver Tea Spoons. ~

8  I give devise and bequeath to my above named three daughters all my bedding, table Cloths & towelling, to be equally divided between them. ~

9  I give, devise, and bequeath to my son Henry Hamblin my great Bible, round mahogany Table, black leather Trunk and a small trunk, all my wearing apparel, all my chairs, except the arm chair, two silver tea Spoons & all the remainder of my household furniture of every description. ~

10  All the remainder of the property of which I may die seized, Real & Personal, I direct to be divided into four equal parts, all of which I give devise and bequeath, in the following manner, viz: one part to my daughter Abby, one other part to my daughter Ann, one other part to my daughter Maria– one other part to my son Henry Hamblin to them, their heirs and assigns forever.

I also appoint my son Henry Hamblin Tillson Executor of this my last Will and Testament.

                                                                                                                                                Hamblin Tillson                                   (seal)

Signed published and declared by the said Hamblin Tillson as his last Will and Testament in the presence of us, who in his presence, and at his request have hereunto set our names as witnesses this twenty second day of February in the year of our Lord One Thousand Eight hundred and fifty

                                                                                                                Timothy Gordon

                                                                                                                Andrew Bartlett

                                                                                                                Winslow Drew

 

Presented for probate on the first Monday of Dec. 1850 by Henry H Tillson, the Executor therein named, and proved by Timothy Gordon and Winslow Drew, two of the Witnesses whose names are subscribed thereto. Letters Testamentary were granted to Henry H Tillson, the Executor therein named.

 

Henry Hamblin Tillson, of New Bedford, was appointed as Executor of the last Will and Testament of Hamblin Tillson, late of Plymouth, on 2 Dec. 1850, with Winslow Drew and Timothy Gordon, both of Plymouth, as sureties.

 

Henry H Tillson, Administrator on the estate of Hamblin Tillson, late of Plymouth, applied for a license to sell $200 of the real estate for the payment his debts in April 1857.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Hamblin Tillson, late of Plymouth, was appraised by William T. Drew, Ezra Finney and Timothy Gordon, and totaled $720.00, including his dwelling house in Plymouth on Spring Lane valued at $700. Henry H. Tillson, and administrator of the estate, gave his oath to the inventory on the first Tuesday of May 1857.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 92, p. 485-487, from FHL microfilm #0555640, Vol. 2H, p. 250, Vol. 4Q, p. 22, and Vol. 99, p. 166-167.

 

 

Will of Jonathan Tillson of Plympton, Plymouth County, Massachusetts Bay (1782) *

In the Name of God Amen—Jonathan Tilson of the Town of Plymton and County of Plymouth in New England, yeoman, Labouring under many infirmities of body which are Symtoms of approaching mortality, but of perfect and disposing memory thanks be Given to almighty God for the same, but Calling to mind the mortality of my body and knowing that it is appointed for all men once to die do make and ordain this my Last will & testament

Imprimis — I will and bequeath my Soul to God that Gave it me & my body to the dust to be decently buried at the discretion of my Executor hereafter named, nothing doubting but at the General Resurrection I shall Recieve the same again by the mighty power of God

Item — I will and bequeath unto my Loving wife Lucy Tillson the use and improvement of all my Estate both Real and personal untill my Loving Son Jonathan Tillson shall arrive to the age of twenty one years of age my just Debts and funeral Charges being first paid out of my moveable Estate, but when my said Son Jonathan shall arrive to the age of twenty one years my will is my wife Lucy Tillson shall have onely one third part of the improvement of my Real Estate so Long as she shall Remain my widow and no Longer, and also one third part of the improvement of my moveable Estate so Long as she shall Remain my widow and no Longer my Just Debts and funeral Chargers being first paid out of my moveable Estate the above said improvement of my Estate I Do Give unto my said wife Lucy Tillson as is above Expressed, but if in Case she shall marry again my will is that she shall have only the Sum of Ten pounds in money or moveable Estate to the value thereof to be paid her by my son Jonathan Tillson at the time of marriage, Said ten pounds to be her own forever, and the Residue of my Estate I dispose of in the following manner

Item — I will and bequeath unto my Loving Son Jonathan Tillson the whole of my Real Estate wherever it may be found, and also all my moveable Estate of all sorts whatsoever and wheresoever they may be found, Excepting what I shall Give unto my Loving daughter Elisabeth Tillson in this present will and my wife’s improvement as abovesaid and my just debts & funeral Charges being first paid out of my moveable Estate; always provided that he his Heirs Executors or administrators shall pay or Cause to be paid all such Legacies as I shall appoint him in this will to pay. I Do Give the abovesaid Real and moveable Estate unto my said Son Jonathan Tillson and unto his Heirs and assigns forever

Item — I will and bequeath unto the Heirs of my Loving daughter Eunice Chace deceased, formerly the wife of Consider Chace, the sum of five shillings having Given my said daughter her full portion heretofore, which makes her equal with my other daughters, the abovesaid five shillings I do Give to the abovesaid Heirs of my Loving daughter Eunice Chace deceased & unto their Heirs and assigns forever to be paid them by my Son Jonathan Tillson when he shall arrive to the age of twenty one years, to be paid in money or moveable Estate to the value thereof

Item — I will and bequeath unto my Loving daughter Lydia Atwood the wife of William Atwood the sum of five shillings and no more having Given her, her full portion heretofore, which makes her equal with my other daughters, the abovesaid five shillings I do Give unto my said daughter Lydia Atwood and to her Heirs & assigns forever to be paid her by my Son Jonathan Tillson when he shall arrive to the age of twenty one years to be paid in money or moveable Estate to the value thereof

Item — I will and bequeath unto my Loving daughter Molly Dunham the wife of Silas Donham the sum of five Shillings and no more having Given her her full portion heretofore, which makes her equal with my other daughters, the abovesaid five shillings I do Give unto my said daughter Molly Dunham & unto her Heirs and assigns forever to be paid her by my Son Jonathan Tillson when he shall arrive to the age of twenty one years, to be paid in money or moveable Estate to the value thereof

Item — I will and bequeath unto my Loving daughter Elizabeth Tillson the sum of twenty two pounds to be paid her by my Executor hereafter named within Six months after my decease, to be paid out of my moveable Estate, the abovesaid twenty two pounds, I do Give unto my said daughter Elizabeth Tillson and unto her Heirs & assigns forever

Item — I will and bequeath unto my Loving daughter Sarah Tillson the sum of twenty pounds to be paid in money, or moveable Estate to the value thereof, to be paid her by my Loving son Jonathan Tillson when She shall arrive to the full age of twenty one years – the abovesaid twenty pounds I do Give unto my Loving daughter Sarah Tillson and unto her Heirs & assigns forever

Item — I will and bequeath unto my Loving daughter Lucy Tillson the sum of twenty pounds in money or moveable Estate to the value thereof to be paid her by my Son Jonathan Tillson when she shall arrive to the full age of twenty one years the abovesaid twenty pounds I do Give unto my said daughter Lucy Tillson and unto her Heirs and assigns forever

Lastly — I nominate and appoint my Loving Son in Law William Atwood to be the Sole Executor of this my Last will and testament, hereby Revoking all other and former wills Either written or verbal by me heretofore made hereby Ratifying and Confirming this my Last will to Remain firm and irrevolable — and in testimony whereof, I the abovesaid Jonathan Tillson have hereunto Sett my hand and Seal the Sixteenth day of November one thousand seven hundred & Eighty two – 1782

Signed Sealed and pronounced and                                                                                 Jonathan Tillson                              (seal)

declared by the said Jonathan Tillson

to be his Last will and testament in

presence of us

                Samuel Lucas

                Daniel Vaughn

                Eleazer Crooker

 

Presented for probate on 6 Jan. 1783 by William Atwood, the Executor, and proved by Samuel Lucas and Eleazer Crooker, two of the witnesses.

 

Francis Shurtliff, Samuel Lucas, and Eleazer Crooker, all of Plymton, were appointed to appraise the Estate of Jonathan Tillson, late of Plymton, Gentm., on 6 Jan. 1783. The Inventory of the Estate of Lieut. Jonathan Tillson, late of Plymton, was dated 19 Apr. 1783, and totaled £278.13.0, including his homestead and buildings valued at £121.6.8. William Atwood, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 1 Sept. 1783.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 28, p. 531-533, from FHL microfilm #0550715, and Vol. 29, p. 33.

 

 

Will of Ephraim Tilson of Halifax, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1807) *

        In the name of God amen. I Ephraim Tilson of Halifax in the County of Plymouth & Commonwealth of Massachusetts Yeoman, being weak in body but of sound & perfect Mind & Memory, considering the Uncertainty of this Mortal Life & knowing it is appointed for all Men once to die, do make & ordain this my last Will & Testament, that is to say–First of all I give & recommend my Soul into the hands of God, that gave it, & my Body I recommend to the Earth to be buried in a decent Christian Burial at the discretion of my Executors nothing doubting but at the Resurrection I shall receive the same again by the mighty Power of God— And with respect to my worldly Estate with which God has blessed me with in this Life, I give demise & d8spose of the same in the Manner following, that is to say—

        I give & bequeath unto my two Sons James Tilson & Ephraim Tilson, all my Real Estate situate, lying & being in the Town of Halifax aforesaid including all my right in pews in Halifax Meeting house, also my Barn, also all my Lands situate lying and being in the Town of Pembroke to them & their Heirs & assigns forever, they paying all my just debts & funeral Charges & all the Legacies hereafter mentioned.—

        I also give & bequeath unto my son Joseph Tilson one Dollar —

        I also give & bequeath unto my Grandson Josiah Tilson one hundred Dollars to be paid to him when he shall arrive at the Age of twenty one Years —

        I also give & bequeath my Daughter Hannah Tilson & my Daughter Sarah Tilson all my Household Furniture, & all the Neat Stock that I am owner of at the time of my decease—

        I also give & bequeath unto my Daughter Elizabeth Stetson one Dollar —

        I also give & bequeath unto my Daughter Ruth Tomson one Dollar —

        I also give & bequeath unto my Daughter Mercy Bosworth one Dollar.—

        I also give & bequeath unto my Daughter Mary Hooper one Dollar.—

        I also give & bequeath unto my Daughter Desire Silvester one Dollar.—

        I also give & bequeath unto my Daughter Joanna Alden one Dollar.—

All the forgoing Legaises are to be paid out of my Real Estate by my two sons James Tilson & Ephraim Tilson, which is equally to be divided betwixt my two Sons James Tilson & Ephraim Tilson —  And I do hereby appoint my Son James Tilson & my Son Ephraim Tilson sole Executors of this my last Will and Testament– hereby revoking all former Wills by me made

        In witness whereof I have here unto set my hand & seal the twenty sixth day of September in the Year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred & seven —

Signed sealed published & declared by the above

named Ephraim Tilson to be his last Will &

Testament—in the presence of us, who have

hereunto subscribed our Names as Witnesses

in the presence of the Testator —                                                                                     Ephraim Tilson                                (seal)

        Josiah Tomson

        Abel Richmond

        Mercy Sears ~~

 

Presented for probate on 5 July 1808 by James Tilson and Ephraim Tilson, the Executors, and proved by Josiah Thomson Esqr. and Revd. Abel Richmond, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to James Tilson and Ephraim Tilson, the before named Executors.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 42, p. 366, from FHL microfilm #0550902.

 

 

Will of Elisha Tinkham of Middleborough, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1809) *

                In the name of God, Amen: I, Elisha Tinkham of Middleborough in the County of Plymouth in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Yeoman, being advanced in age but of sound mind and memory, blessed be God for the same, calling to mind the mortality of my body, knowing that it is appointed to all men once to die, — I do make and ordain this to be my last Will and Testament, to remain firm and inviolable forever. First of all I give my soul to God that gave it, and my body to the dust to be buried in a decent manner at the discretion of my Executor hereafter named, in hopes of a glorious resurrection. And as to my worldly estate with which I have been blessed with, I do hereby dispose of the same as follows, viz.

        In primis – I give and bequeath to my son Jeremiah Tinkham and to his heirs and assigns forever one dollar in money, to be paid by my son Thomas P. Tinkham at my decease – and also one fifth part of my wearing apparel.

        Item – I give and bequeath to my son John Tinkham (he being deprived of his reason) one fifth part of my wearing apparel and his support during his natural life, or until he shall be restored to the natural use of his reason – then my Will is, and I do hereby order my said son Thomas to pay him the said John twenty dollars in money, and for him, the said John not to have his support any longer from Thomas.

        Item. I give and bequeath to my son Elisha Tinkham and to his heirs and assigns forever, one fifth part of my wearing apparel and three dollars in money, to be paid to him at my decease by my said son Thomas P. Tinkham.

        Item. I give and bequeath to my son Isaac Tinkham and to his heirs and assigns forever one fifth part of my wearing apparel – all of my household furniture that was his mother’s and three dollars, to be paid to him at my decease by my son Thomas P. Tinkham.

        Item. I give and bequeath to my three daughters, namely Naomi Tinkham, Lurany Tinkham and Lucy Tinkham and to their heirs and assigns forever, in equal proportion, all of my household furniture (excepting what I have given by this Will to my son Isaac and excepting my watch – I also give to my said three daughters in equal proportion so long as they or any of them shall remain unmarried and no longer the use and improvement of the easterly great room in my dwelling house – also the use of one third of my kitchen, buttery, chamber and cellar. – I also give to my said three daughters so long as they or any of them shall remain unmarried and no longer the keeping of one cow winter and summer on my farm – and two cord of wood yearly and every year during said term cut and drawed to the door – said cow to be kept and wood to be delivered by my said son Thomas P. Tinkham – and whenever one or more of my said daughters shall die or be married then my will is, and I hereby order that the daughter or daughters that shall be living and unmarried shall have and enjoy the parts of the house, the keeping of cow and the wood the same that the three are entitled to by this will.

Item. After my just debts, funeral charges and the expense of settling of my estate is first paid – I do hereby give and bequeath to my son Thomas P. Tinkham, and to his heirs and assigns forever all of the remaining part and residue of my estate of every part both real and personal, on condition that he shall well and truly pay to my abovesaid children the several sums that I have by this Will given to them – and shall also support my said son John during the time that he remains deprived of his reason as above described – and also to keep the cow and find the fire wood for his sisters as above described.

Lastly. My Will is, and I do hereby appoint my said son Thomas P. Tinkham sole executor of this my last Will and Testament. Thus hoping that this my last Will and Testament will be kept and performed according to the true intent and meaning of the same, I, the said Elisha Tinkham have hereunto set my hand and seal this twentieth day of June in the year of our Lord eighteen hundred and nine.

                                                                                                                                                Elisha Tinkham                                (seal)

        Signed, sealed, published, pronounced and declared by the said Elisha Tinkham to be his last Will and Testament in presence of us —

                Isaac Thomson

                Ezra Soule

                Lydia Thompson.

 

        We the undersigned, heirs at Law of Elisha Tinkham deceased, do hereby give our assent to the within will of the said Elisha, and consent that the same be proved and established as such.

                Decr. 21st 1835.                                                                                                    Jeremiah Tinkham

                                                                                                                                                Elisha Tinkham

                                                                                                                                                Isaac Tinkham

                                                                                                                                                Elisha Richmond

                                                                                                                                                Lucy Richmond.

 

Presented for probate on 31 May 1836, and proved by Ezra Soule, one of the subscribing witnesses thereto. Letters of Administration were granted to Thomas P. Tinkham, of Middleborough, yeoman, on 31 May 1836.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 78, p. 187-190, from FHL microfilm #0555264.

 

 

Will of Ephraim Tinkham of Middleborough, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1714) *

In the name of God Amen I Ephraim Tinkham of Middleborough In Plymouth County of New England being in weak Estate of Body thô of Sound mind & perfect memory, calling to mind my mortality & knowing yt It is appointed to all men once to dye do make Constitute & order ys as my last Will & Testament . . . Imprimis my soul I resign into the hands of God yt gave it, and my poor frail Body I leave to the Dust by decent Buriall ye Charge to be paid out of that Estate I leave Behind . . . . .

Item. I order yt all my just Debts should be paid out of yt which I have not yet disposed of and hereafter mentioned in this Instrument . . . . .

Item. I give to my welbeloved wife Esther Tinkham all my moveables wthin Doors & without (as also ye Improvements of all my Lands theretofore excepted In ye Deeds of gifts I have made to my Sons.) during her natural life . . . . .

Item. I order & appoint in this my last will and Testament my Eldest Son John Tinkham to pay to his Brothers Isaac & Samuel Tinkham ten Pounds a Piece to each, as he hath already promised me . . . .

Item, I order & appoint that what my wife leaves at her Decease of the abovesd Estate In moveables be Equally Divided between my two Daughters Martha Soul & Mary Tinkham to them & to their heirs forever.

Item. I do in this my last Will & Testament ratify & Confirm unto my Sons John Isaac & Samuel Tinkham and the Children of my deceasd Son Ephraim Tinkham to them & every of them & their heirs forever whatsoever I have heretofore by Deeds given unto ym and as I have given unto ym.

Finally I order & appoint In this my last Will my Trusty & well beloved Wife Esther Tinkham to be my Executrix and administratix to this last Testament of mine, Desiring my son Isaac to be helpfull to his Mother in the administration, & for the Confirming, ratifying: & fixing This as my last Will and Testament. I do before Witness publish pronounce & declare this Instrument, to be my last Will, whereunto before said Witnesses, I have hereunto set my hand & seal Sept: 17th 1714/                                                                                                    

Signed Sealed published pronounced                                                                                             his

& declared before us the subscribers                                                                               Ephraim  E T  Tincom       (seal)

Samuel Wood Senr                                                                                                                              mark

Joseph Vaughan

Peter Thacher

 

Plim Ss on the third day of march annog. Dom: 1714/15 Mr Peter Thacher & Samuel Wood Senr two of the witnesses to this will made oath that they were present & saw the above named Ephraim Tinkham Sign & Seal & heard him declare the above written Instrument to be his last Will & Testament & that when he so did he was of a disposing mind & memory to the best of their knowledge.                                                                                                            Before me   Nathaniel Thomas   Judge of Probate

 

The inventory of the goods & chattels of Ephraim Tinkham Senr of Middleborough was appraised by Left. Joseph Vaughan and Samuel Wood on 22 Nov. 1714, and sworn to by Esther Tinkham on 19 Sept. 1715.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 3, p. 358-360, from FHL microfilm #0550509.

 

 

Will of Isaac Tinkham of Plymouth, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1709) *

Know All Men by these Presents that I Isaac Tinkham of Plymouth in ye County of Plymo. in New England Yeoman Considering ye uncertainty of Life and the Certainty of Death being in a Competent measure of Bodily health and of a Sound & Disposing mind & memory Do make & ordayne this my last will & Testamt. as followeth—

Imprimis I Bequeath my Soul to that GOD that gave it Trusting in ye Merits of Jesus Christ for salvation and my Body to ye Earth to be Decently Buryed according to ye Discretion of my Executrix hereafter named in hopes of a Resurrection to Life & Immortality. and as to what temporal Estate it hath pleased GOD to bless me with All my Just Debts & Funeral Charges being first paid & Dispose of ye Same as followeth Viz —

Imprs. I Give & Bequeath to my Loving Wife Sarah Tinkham ye use & Improvement of ye one half of all my Lands & meadows During ye Term of her natural Life for her Support & Comfortable Livelyhood.—

Item. I Give to my sd Loving Wife All my moveable Estate whatsoever both within Doors & without for her own use & Dispose as She shall See Good.— And I Do by these presents Constitute & appoint My said wife Sarah Tinkham Sole Executrix of this my last will & Testament Hereby Revoking, Disanulling all former wills & Testaments by me heretofore made Ratifying & Confirming & allowing this & no other or former as my last will & Testamt.- In witness hereof I ye sd Isaac Tinkham have hereunto Set my Hand & Seal this twenty & fifth Day of february anno Domini One thousand Seven hundred & Eight. 1708/9.—

Signed Sealed & Declared to be

his last Will & Testamt.                                                                                                     Isaac   (  Tinkham (seal)

In presence of us                                                                                                                     his           mark

Ephraim Little Junr.

Ebenezer Cobb

Hilkiah Tinkham Junr.

 

Plymo. April.5.1732 Before Isaac Winslow Esqr. Judge of ye Probate of wills &c Ebenezer Cob & Hilkiah Tinkcom above named appeared & made oath that yy saw Isaac Tinkcom above named Sign, Seal & heard him Declare ye above written to be his last will & Testament and that they with Ephraim Little Junr. Set to their Hands as witnesses at ye Same time and that according to the best of their observacon The said Testator was then of a Sound & Disposing Mind and memory.                                                                                                                                             Isaac Winslow

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 6, p. 160, from FHL microfilm #0550512.

 

 

Will of John Tinkham of Middleborough, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1766) *

                                                In the Name of God, Amen.

The thirteenth day of February in the sixth year of his majesties reign annoque Domini 1766, I John Tinkham of Middleborough in the county of Plimouth yeoman being of a perfect mind and memory thanks be given unto God, therefore calling to mind the mortality of my body & knowing that it is appointed for all men once to die do make & ordain this my last will & testament; that is to say, principally & first of all, I give & recommend my soul into the hands of God that gave it, & my body I recommend to the earth to be buried in decent Christian burial at the discretion of my executors, nothing doubting but at the general resurrection I shall receive the same again by the mighty power of God; and as touching such worldly estate wherewith it has pleased God to bless me in this life, I give demise & dispose of the same in the following manner and form. ~

Imprimis, I give & bequeath unto my welbeloved wife Hannah Tinkham Two cows & the one half of my indoor moveables, & also I give unto her one half of all the money I shall die seized off, or is owing to me on notes or bonds, my just debts & funeral charges being first paid out of the same. ~

Item. I give & bequeath unto my son John Tinkham that tract of land whereon he now dwells which did formerly belong unto governor Prince, & my two lots of land in the purchase called the South Purchase, being in number the 65th. & 66th. lots, & also all my meadow which lieth in the meadows called winnetuxet meadows; & also the one half of my cedar swamp lying in the swamp, called the Great-cedar-swamp in the purchase calld. the six & twenty mens purchase.

Item. I give & bequeath unto my son Abisha Tinkham them two lots of land whereon he now dwells, lying & being in the sixteen shilling purchase, & also the eighth lot in the second allotment in sd. purchase excepting ten acres at the east end of sd. lot, & also a twentyfour acre lot being in number the ninth lot in sd. purchase, And also one half of my lot of cedar swamp lying in the purchase called Snipetuet purchase. ~

Item. I give & bequeath unto my son Amos Tinkham all my homestead land & meadow which lieth there adjoining together, whereon I now dwell in the purchase called the six & twenty mens purchase in the township of Middleboro’ aforesaid, with the buildings & fences thereon, & also my meadow in the Tower meadow (so called) in sd. purchase, which I bought of John Vaughan, & also one half of my cedar swamp lying in the swamp called the Great-cedar swamp in said purchase & also my meadow lying on the river called, Namasket river a place commonly called Warrens-Point, only reserving unto my loving wife Hannah the use & improvement of one half of my dwelling house so long as She shall remain my widow & no longer.

Item. I give and bequeath unto my daughter Esther Vaughan, the lot of land lieth on the neck called Mad-mares-neck in the sixteen shillg. purchase in Middleboro’ aforesaid, & is in number the twentysixth lot in the first allotment in said purchase; & also ten acres of land in the east end of the eighth lot in number in the second allotment in said purchase;—

Item. I give & bequeath unto my four daughters namely, Hannah Weston, Susannah Cobb, Mary Weston & Zilpah Wilder my three lots of land lying in the purchase called the Little-Lotmens-purchase in Middleboro’ aforesaid, which lots did formerly belong unto my brother Seth Howland decd, and also my parcel of meadow lying in the Lower meadow (so called) which I had of Samll. Bennet; and also my two fifth parts of a lot of meadow, in the upper meadow in said six & twenty mens purchase. ~

Item, I give & bequeath unto my eight aforesaid children, namely John, Abisha, Amos, Esther, Hannah, Susannah, Mary & Zilpah, all the remaining part of my lands, swamp & cedar swamp (not yet given away) lying & being in the purchase of land called Snipetuet purchase & the said sixteen shilling purchase to be equally divided between them. ~

Item. I give & bequeath unto my aforesaid three sons namely John, Abisha, & Amos all my arms & wearing apparel, & also all my husbandry tools & tackling the same to be equally divided amongst ‘em. And all the remaining part of my personal estate which I have not given away I give & bequeath unto my eight aforesd. children to be equally divided amongst them, saving to any of my sd. children who have heretofore received any part of my moveable estate it shall be accounted to them in the division agreable to the value which they have received. And my will is that my sd. son Amos, shall keep for his mother two cows both winter & summer, and also to render & pay to her yearly the one quarter part of the corn & grain, cyder & apples, & flax from the swingle that is raised on my said homestead land together with one quarter part of whatever else is raisd, on sd. land (hay & grass excepted) & also to find for her a horse to ride for her necessary riding, & find her fire wood brought to the house & cut fit for the fire, & also find for her ten pounds of Sheeps wool a year, yearly, all the aforesaid legacies to be delivered to her yearly during the time she remains my widdow, and my will is that all the lands which I have given away unto my sd. children shall belong unto them, unto whom & in manner as I have given the same to them & their heirs & assigns forever. ~

And my will is that my two sons John Tinkham & Amos Tinkham Shall be executors of this my last will & testament. Thus hoping that this my last will & testament will be kept & performed, according to the true intent & meaning thereof. In witness whereof I the sd. John Tinkham have hereunto set my hand & seal the day & year before written. ~

Signed, sealed, published, pronounced &                                                                       John Tinkham                   (seal)

declared by the said John Tinkham as his

last will & testament in the presence of us

the Subscribers.                    Thos. Tupper, Micah Bryant,

                                                                Joseph Tinkham

 

Presented for probate on 23 May 1766 by John Tinkham and Amos Tinkham, the Executors therein named, and proved by Joseph Tinkham esquire and Micah Bryant, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to John Tinkham and Amos Tinkham, the Executors.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 19, p. 370-372, from FHL microfilm #0550711.

 

 

Will of Samuel Tinkham of Middleborough, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1773) *

In the Name of God Amen. This third Day of November in the Year of Our Lord One Thousand Seven hundred Seventy & Three I Samuel Tinkham of Middleborough in the County of Plymouth in New-England Being at this Present Time in Tolerable Good Health & Sound in Understanding and Memory as can be Expected Considering my Advanced Age, Blessed be God for the Same being Sensible of My Own Mortality & knowing it is Appointed for all Men Once to Die Do make & Ordain this my Last Will & Testament that is to Say Principally & first of All I Recommend my Soul into the hands of God that Gave it & my Body to the Earth to be decently Buried at the Discretion of My Executor Nothing Doubting But at the General Resurrection I Shall Receive the Same Again by the Mighty Power of God. & Touching Such Worldly Estate as it hath Pleased God to Bless me with in this Life I Give & Dispose of the Same in Manner & Form following that is to Say Imprimis I Give & Bequeath unto my Loving Wife Maltiah two Acres of Land Lying on the North Side of the Road that Goes from Middleborough to Hallefax Adjoyning to the Land Give to my Son Silas Also All my Live Stock also all my Indoor Moveables Excepting what I shall hereafter mention to her, her Heirs & Assigns forever ~ Item I Give & Bequeath unto my Two Grandsons Viz unto Ephraim Tinkham & Samuel Tinkham two Acres of Land to Each of Then Joyning to the Land of Jabez Smith on the North Side of the Above mentioned Road & if Either of Said Children Should Die before they Arrive to the Age of Twenty & One years Leaving no Lawfull Issue then the Surviving to have the Other Right & if both Should die then for it to Descend to their Sister in Equal Proportion, which Land I Give to them their Heirs And Assigns forever.

Item I Give & Bequeath to my Two Daughters Viz. unto Patience & Lois four Acres of Land Joyning to the Land Give unto my Said Grandsons to be Divided between them According to Quantity & Quality Also to Each of them a Feather Bed & beding to them their heirs & Assigns forever ~

Item I Give & Bequeath unto my Son Silas Tinkham all the Remaining Part And Residue of my Estate Real & Personal mixed Moved Or to be moved that is not Elsewhere Disposed of & I do Also by this my Last Will & Testament Ratify & Confirm to my Two Sons (Viz.) unto Ephraim Tinkham Deceased and unto Silas Tinkham & their Heirs & Assigns all that I Gave them by Deeds & I do by this my Last Will & Testament Constitute & Appoint my Dutiful Son Silas Tinkham Sole Executors of this my Last Will & Testament In Witness whereof I have hereunto Set my hand & Seal the Day & Year within Mentioned.

Signed Sealed Published & Declar’d                                                                               Samuel Tinkham                              (seal)

In Presents of

Jacob Soule

Lydia Shaw

William Shaw

 

Presented for probate on 6 May 1776 by Silas Tinkham, the Executor therein named, and proved by Jacob Soule and William Shaw, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Silas Tinkham, the Executor, with Phineas Thomas and Samuel Thacher, all of Middleborough, as sureties.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 24, p. 107-108, from FHL microfilm #0550713.

 

 

Will of Hannah Titus of Newtown, Queens County, Province of New York (1730) *

                                                                                                                In the Name of God Amen  I Hannah Titus of Newtown in Queens County on Nassau Island in the Colony of New York Spinster being in a weak and Low Condition but of perfect mind and Memory thanks be given unto God therefore Calling unto Mind the Mortality of my Body and knowing that it is appointed for all men once to dye Do make and ordain this my Last will and Testament that is to say

                                                                                                                Principally and first of all I Give & recommend my Soul into the hands of God who Gave it and for my Body I Recommend it to the Earth to be buryed in A Christian like and decent manner att the discretion of my Executors hereafter named nothing doubting but at the General Resurrection I shall receive the Same again by the mighty power of God and as touching Such worldly Estate wherewith it hath pleased God to bless me in this Life I Give devise and dispose of the same in the following manner and form

                                                                                                                First I will that all my Just debts & funeral Charges be paid and discharged

                                                                                                                Item I Give and bequeath unto my beloved Sister Abigail Furnis and to the heirs of her Body my Negro woman named Nanne

                                                                                                                Item I give and bequeath to my beloved Cousin Margarett Furnis & to the heirs of her body my Negro Girl Dal

                                                                                                                Item I Give and Bequeath to my Beloved Cousin Contine Titus Son of My Brother Robert Titus and to the heirs of his Body my Negro boy named Jacob

                                                                                                                Item I Give and bequeath to my beloved Causin Hannah Hunt Daughter of my Sister Phebe Hunt And to the heir of her Body one bed and Furniture and also one suit of Chince Apparel And one Bilested Chest.

                                                                                                                And it is my will and desire that my sister Abigail Furnis or her Executors shall maintain and Support the Above named negro Boy Jacob until he the said boy be two Years of Age and then the Said boy to deliver to my Said Brother in behalf of his son above named

                                                                                                                Item I Give and bequeath to my Negron woman named Nanne one bed and Furniture thereto belonging & also one Bible

                                                                                                                Item I Give and Bequeath unto my two sisters that is to say Phebe Hunt and Abigail Furnis and to their heirs for Ever All the remaining part of my Estate that is undevided & unbequeathed to be by them my Said Sisters Equally devided as to Quantity and Quality.

                                                                                                                And I do hereby Constitute make and ordain my beloved Brother Jonathan Hunt My beloved Sister Abigail Furnis & my Friend Jacob Reeder My whole and Sole Executors of this my Last will and Testament to see that the same & every part thereof be well and truly fullfilled According to the true Intent and Meaning thereof

                                                                                                                And I do hereby utterly dissallow revoke & disannull all & every other former Testaments wills & Legacies & Executors by me any ways before this time willed and bequeathed ratifying & Confirming this And no other to be my Last will and Testament

                                                                                                                In Witness whereof I have hereunto Set my hand & Seal the Seventh day of December in the fourth Year of his Majestys reign Annoq Domini 1730

                                                                                                                                Hannah Titus  X  her mark                                (seal)

Signed Sealed published pronounced & declared by the Said Hannah Titus as her Last will & Testament in the presence of us the Subscribers

                                                                Ephraim Morse   William Sackett

Thomas North X his Marke

 

Probated on 29 July 1731. Letters of Administration granted to Jonathan Hunt and Abigail Furnis, Jacob Reeder, the other Executor named having renounced the Executorship.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from New York County Probate, Vol. 11, p. 149-151, copied from original Libor 11, p. 157-159.

 

 

Will of Sarah Titus of Newtown, Queens County, Province of New York (1749) *

In the Name of God Amen I Sarah Titus Widow of Silas Titus of Newtown in Queens County on Nassau Island in the province of New York, Spinster being but in a weak and low condition but blessed be God for perfect mind and memory think it dutifull to settle my affairs do make and ordain this my last Will and Testament  Imprimis I commit my precious and Immortal Soul to God that gave it depending on the free Grace of God through the Righteouseness of Jesus Christ for its admission into the heavenly Kingdom And as for my Body I commit to the dust from whence it was taken to be buried in such Christian order as my Executors hereafter named shall think meet and touching the portion of Worldly Goods that the Lord has been pleased to give me I give and bequeath in the following manner my Will is that my Funeral charges be paid and all my lawfull debts  Secondly I give to my two daughters Sarah Corniss and Susanna Furman the Sum of Ten pounds five pounds apiece to be paid to them in Two Years after my decease  Thirdly I give to Benjamin Moore Son of Sarah Cornish my Bed Bedsted Bolster two pillows three sheets a Rug and Coverled my Gun and Chest to be for him att my decease and ten pounds in Money to be paid him in two Years  fourthly I give to my Grandson Edward Cornish the sum of five pounds in Money for to School him to be put out at use  fifthly I give the sum of five pounds in Money to the Presbeterian Sociate of Newtown to be for their use to the end of time to be paid to the elders of said Sociate in two years after my decease  Sixthly I give to my Grandaughter Daughter of Edward Titus Susannah Titus my Grate Bible  Seventhly I give the rest of my Estate to Sarah Cornishes three Daughters and Susanah Furmans three sons to be equally divided amongst them when they come of age and if any of them should die in nonage then his part to go to the rest the Money to be put in such hands as my Executors shall think fitt  Lastly I do nominate constitute and appoint my trusty friends Johathan Hunt and Philip Edsall Executors of this my last Will and Testament to fulfill and perform according to the true intent and meaning thereof  In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this second day of December in the twenty third Year of his Majesty’s Reign King George the Second and in the Year of our Lord Christ 1749.

Published pronounced and declared to be Sarah Titus last Will and Testament in the presence of

        Edward Titus

        Thomas Edsall                                                                                                                      her

        Daniel X David                                                                                                            Sarah  X  Titus                     (seal)

                                                                                                                                                        mark

 

Probated on 26 Oct. 1751, and proved by Thomas Edsall and Daniel David, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration granted to Jonathan Hunt and Philip Edsall, the Executors, on 26 Oct. 1751.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from New York County Probate, Vol. 18, p. 27-28, copied from original Liber 18, p. 28-29.

 

 

Will of John Tompson of Middleborough, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1724) *

Know all men by These Presents that I John Tompson of ye Town of middleborough in ye County of Plymouth in New: England, Being at this Present time under Bodily Infirmity, yet being of Sound & disposing memory & understanding Blessed be God for ye Same: & being minded to Settle my outward Estate which God Hath given me: Do make & ordain this to be my Last Will & Testament To Remain firm & Inviolable for Ever: Imprimis I give & Bequeath unto my Eldest Son John Tompson all that my Seventy acres of Land Joyning together whereon he now dwelleth in ye Township of Plympton together with three Quarters of my meadow lying at ye foot of Sd Land: and also my Lott of Land on assawamsett neck being in number ye 67th Lott on Sd neck. Item: I give & Bequeath unto my two Sons Ephraim Tompson & Jacob Tompson all my Homestead where I now dwell that is to Say: all my Lands meadows & Swamps which lye there Joyning together: with all ye Buildings thereon to be Equally divided between them: only Reserving unto my Loving wife Mary Tompson ye whole use & Improvement of my now Dwelling House during Her Widdowhood: Reserving ye Liberty & Priviledge for my three daughters Mary Tompson, Martha Tompson, & Sarah Tompson all to dwell in Sd dwelling House, if they See Cause, So Long as they Shall live unmarried: and my will is that my aforesaid two Sons Ephraim & Jacob Shall find firewood & Cutt & brought to ye door for Their mother & their three Sisters aforenamed while They Shall Live in Sd dwelling House Respectively as aforesd, and my will is that my Said two Sons Ephraim & Jacob Shall Provide for their mother meat & corn Sutable & Sufficient for Her during Her widdowhood. Item, I give & Bequeath unto my Son Shubal Tompson my twenty acre Lott of Land where He now dwelleth & all my meadow in ye meadows Called ye upper meadows in middleborough: and also my two Lotts of Land in the third allottment in ye 16 Shilling Purchase, being in number ye 32d & 33d Lotts. Item: I give & Bequeath unto my Son Thomas Tompson my Lott of Land in ye Purchase Called Snipetuet Purchase: being in number the nineteenth Lott & also one Lott of Cedar Swamp in ye great Cedar Swamp in Said Snipetuet Purchase, and also ye one half of my 96 acres of Land in Said Purchase Joyning unto ye South Purchase and also the halfe of my meadow lying on ye South side of ye Brook Called Colchester brook in Plympton: together with ye one halfe of my two acres of Land Left his mother have grass upon Sd halfe of Sd meadow to make one Load of Hay yearly during Her widdowhood: Item, I give & Bequeath unto my Son Peter Tompson ye other halfe of ye aforesd meadow to make one Load of Hay yearly during Her widdowhood: also I give unto my Sd Son Peter my Three Lotts of Land in ye first allottment in ye 16 Shilling Purchase being in number ye first Lott, ye fourth Lott & ye fourty Eighth Lott. Item: I give & bequeath unto my Son Ebenezer Tompson: my Hundred acre Lott of Land butting upon Namaskett River in ye 26 mens Purchase with ye two acres of meadow on Sd River at ye foot of Said Lott: and also my Lott of Land in ye Second allottment in ye 16 Shilling Purchase being in number ye thirty ninth Lot Item: I give & bequeath unto my Son Francis Tompson my two Lotts of Land on Snipetuet neck, in Snipetuet Purchase; being in number ye Second Lott, & ye Third Lott: and also all that my Lott of Cedar Swamp which Lyeth Joyning unto ye north East Side of Snipetuet Pond, in the aforesd Purchase. Item: I give & Bequeath unto my aforesd two Sons Ephraim & Jacob my two Lotts on assawamsett neck being in numbers ye Seventeenth & Eighteenth Lotts to be Equally divided between them. Item, I give & Bequeath unto my Sd Son Ephraim one Quarter Part of my meadow lying at ye foot of ye Land whereon my Son John dwelleth: also I give unto my Said Son Ephraim my two Shares in ye fourth allottment in ye Sixteen Shilling Purchase Comonly Called ye Little Shares: Item, I give unto my aforesd Son John my five & twenty acre Lott of Land in ye 26 mens Purchase being in number ye twenty Sixth Lott: and also all my Right & Interest in ye Lands in ye Purchase Called ye five mens Purchase in middleborough: Item, I give & Bequeath unto my aforesaid three daughters Mary, martha, & Sarah all my Share of Land In ye Purchase Comonly Called Lothrops & Tompsons Purchase to be Equally divided among them: Item: I give & Bequeath unto my Six Sons John Ephraim, Thomas, Peter, Ebenezer & Jacob all my Share of Cedar Swamp in ye Second Lott in ye ye great Cedar Swamp in ye Majors Purchase To be Equally divided among them. Item, I give & Bequeath unto all my Eleven Children both Sons & Daughters all my Shares of Land in that tract of Land lying on ye East Side of Namaskett River, belonging to ye Proprietors of ye Sixteen Shilling Purchase, the land to be Equally divided among Them all. Item, I give & Bequeath unto my Loving wife Mary Tompson two Cows, and my Will is that my two Sons Ephraim & Jacob Shall keep ye Said two Cows for their mother both Winter & Sumer and to Provide Hay for them of ye grass Reserved in their Brothers meadow before mentioned; & if these two Loads of Hay be not Sufficient then they to Provide ye Rest from their own meadow, and they to fodder Said Cows for their mother in ye Season thereof during Her Widdowhood and they to have ye Increase of Said Cows: and they to make good ye Stock if any mishap befall So as that She may Constantly from time to time be Provided with two Cows & at ye time of Her decease or marriage, then the Said Ephraim & Jacob Shall have the sd two Cows for their own: Item, I give & Bequeath unto my aforesd wife ye one halfe of all ye Rest of my moveable Estate whatsoEver: with ye one halfe of ye money or Bills of Credit which I Shall Have at ye time of my decease and ye one halfe of my debts due unto me (my Just debts & funeral Charges being first Paid out of my sd moveable Estate) ye same to be for Her Comfortable Subsistence & to be at Her own disposing: and ye other halfe of my Sd moveable Estate, money, & Bills of Credit & debts due to me (my Just debts & funeral Charges being first Paid as aforesd) Shall be Equally divided among all my Eleven Children both Sons & daughters, and my Will is that my Loving wife Mary Tompson Shall be Executrix; and that my two Sons Ephraim Tompson & Thomas Tompson Shall be Executors of This my Last Will and Testament: Thus Hoping that this my Last will & Testament will be kept & Performed according to ye true Intent & meaning thereof: I Comitt my Body to ye dust, & my Soul to God that gave it  In Wittness whereof I ye aforesd John Tompson have hereunto Sett my Hand & Seal this nineteenth day of october one thousand Seven Hundred twenty & four

Signed Sealed & declared by ye

aforenamed John Tompson to be                                                                                     John Tompson                  (seal)

His Last will & Testament

In ye Presence of us

Jacob Tompson

Barnabas Tompson

Lydia Thompson

 

December ye 23, 1725, The above written Jacob Tompson Barnabas Tompson & Lydia Tompson made oath that they Saw ye above named John Tompson Sign Seal & heard him declare ye above & within written Instrument to be His Last Will & Testament and that at ye Same time they Sett to Their Hands as Witnesses and that also according to ye best of their observation He then was of a Sound & disposing mind & memory

                                                                                                                                                Before Isaac Winslow Judge of Probate

 

The Inventory of the Personal Estate of Mr. John Tomson, late of Middleborough, was appraised by Jacob Tomson, David Bozworth, and James Soul on 21 Feb. 1725/6, not totaled, and no real estate listed. Thomas Tomson, one of the Executors, gave his oath to the inventory on 3 Mar. 1725[/6].

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 5, p. 266-269, from FHL microfilm #0550511.

 

 

Will of Abigail Tomson of Halifax, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1739) *

Know all men by these presents That I the widdow Abigail Tomson of the Town of Hallifax in the County of Plymouth in NewEngland being at this Present time in health & of a Sound & Disposeing Memory & Understanding blessed be God for it yet being Sensible of my own Mortallity and not knowing the day of my Death do make and Ordain this to be my last will and Testament to Stand & remain firm & Inviolable forever.

Imprimis I Give & bequeath to my Six Daughters Abigail Packard, Mercy Bennet Lidya Packard Hannah Read Ester Bennet & Mary Tomson all my wearing Cloaths to be Equally Divided amongst them I allso will that All my Just Debts and whatsoever Cost or Charge that any of my Children Shall be at my lending me when I am Sick or Infebled by Age or any Other way together with my Funerall Charges Shall first be paid out of the bills of Creditt which I Shall have or Just debts due to me at my decease and whatsoever Shall remain undisposed of Either of the bills of Creditt or of the Debts due to me when these aforesaid Charges are paid—

eItem, I Give and bequeath unto my three youngest Daughters Namely Ester Bennet Hannah Read & Mary Tomson and to my Grandson Moses the son of my Daughter Abigail together with all my Household Goods to be Equally Divided amongst them —

Item, I Give to my four Sons Jacob Tomson, John Tomson Barnabas Tomson & Caleb Tomson and to my sd. Grandson Moses all my Sheep and other Neat Cattles to be Equally Divided amongst them.

Item, I allso Give my Sider Mill to my three youngest sons Namely John Barnabas & Caleb and my will allso is that my Son Barnabas Tomson Shall be the Executor of this my last will & Testamt.

Thus hopeing that this my last will & Testament will be kept & performd According to the true meaning & Intent thereof~

I Committ my body to the Earth and my precious Soul I Give to God that gave it me Beseaching him to Accept of it in the Name and for the Sake of Jesus Christ. In Witness whereof I the Aforesaid Abigail Tomson have hereunto set my hand Seal this Sixteenth day of April One thousand seven hundred thirty & Nine, Signed Sealed & Declared by the Above named Abigail Tomson to be her last will & Testament—

                                In the Presence of

                Zachariah Soule                                                                                                                her

                Ebenezer Fuller                                                                                                    Abigail  +  Tomson            (seal)

                Ruth Fuller                                                                                                                      marke

 

Probated on 4 Feb. 1744, and proved by Zachariah Soule and Ebenr. Fuller. Letters of Administration granted to Barnabas Tomson of Hallifax, the Executor, on 4 Feb. 1744.

 

Thomas Croade Esqr, Ebenezer Fuller of Hallifax, and Zachariah Soule of Plymton, were appointed to appraise the estate of Abigail Tomson, late of Hallifax, on 4 Feb. 1744. The Inventory of the Estate of Mrs. Abigail Tomson, late of Hallifax, was taken on 22 Feb. 1744, and totaled £347.14.4, including £63.10 in Cattle & Sheep, but no real estate.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 9, p. 411-414, from FHL microfilm #0551533.

 

 

Will of Caleb Tomson of Middleborough, Plymouth County, Massachusetts Bay (1785) *

Know all men by these presents that I Caleb Tomson of the town of Middleboro. in the County of Plymouth & Commonwealth of Massachusetts, being at this present time under infirmity of body, but sound in understand and memory, blessed be God for the same, yet being Sensible of my mortality and knowing it is appointed for all men to die, do make and ordain this to be my Last will & testament to Remain firm and inviolable forever ~

Imprimis – I Give and bequeath unto my beloved wife Abigail Tomson the use & improvement of one third part of my Homestead Farm together with one third part of the Buildings thereon so Long as she Remains my widow, also one Horse and two Cows, also Six Sheep, also one Swine to be kept for her annually during Life, also my Chair & Harness & my Pannal & one bridle, and also the one half of all my Indoor moveables to be at her dispose during Life—it is also my will that my three Sons viz~, William Tomson–Nathl. Tomson & Caleb Tomson junr Shall provide a Sufficiency of fire wood for their mother brought to the door and prepared for the fire, to be done in equal proportion by my aforesaid Sons during their mothers natural Life

Item – I do by this will Ratify & Confirm unto my three Sons vizt. to William to Nathaniel & unto Caleb the several deeds heretofore Given unto them of my Real Estate to them, their Heirs & assigns forever – also I Give unto my aforesaid three Sons all my out door moveables not above disposed of Consisting of Live Stock, Fodder, Farming or Carpenters utensills, plank boards or Logs, Cedar Stuff worked or unworked that is out of the Swamp to be equally divided between them and I do also order by this my Last will that the several Securities Given me by my aforesaid Sons for Certain Reasons be Given up to them, if they keep & perform this will according to the Expression thereof, also I Give them my apparell & arms in equal proportion.~

Item –I Give & bequeath unto my four daughters, vizt– unto Molly Tinkham Hannah Tomson– Abigail Tomson – & Sylve Thomas the other half of my indoor moveables to be equally divided between them, after their mothers decease, if She their said mother shall need the improvement of them during Life, otherwise to be divided whenever their mother see Cause, but the Other half Given to my aforesaid wife shall be at her own dispose as she see fit. ~

  I Give also unto my Daughter Molly Tinkham at my decease a note of hand Given me by her Husband Peter Tinkham bearing date April 30th. 1765 Containing the Sum of fifteen pounds Eight pence—I Give also unto my Daughter Abigail Tomson at my decease a note of hand Given me by her Husband John Tomson bearing date January 27th. 1777 Containing the sum of Nineteen pounds Seventeen Shillings & four pence

  I Give also unto my Grandson Frederick Miller Son to my Daughter Sarah Miller deceased the two notes Given me by David Miller the father of said Frederick Containing the Sum of Thirty five pounds ten Shillings together with the Sum of Seven pounds five Shillings and three pence to be paid him by my Executor out of my moveable Estate at my decease. ~

  I also Give and bequeath unto my Daughter Molly Tinkham the sum of Thirteen pounds Six Shillings & Eight pence to be paid her in three years after my decease by my Son William Tomson in Cash or Stock at monies price

I also Give unto my Daughter Abigail Tomson the Sum of eight pounds to be paid her by my Son Nathaniel Tomson in three years after my decease in Cash or Stock at monies price

  I Give also unto my Daughter Sylva Thomas the Sum of Ten pounds to be paid her by my Son Caleb Tomson in three years after my decease in Cash or Stock at monies price the above Sums to them their Heirs forever

  I do also by this will order that my three Sons do maintain their Sister Hannah Tomson honorably during her natural Life, and make a Suitable decent and Christian provision for her in equal proportion between them ~

   It is also my will if there should any Real Estate appear to be mine after my decease that is not included in this will, that it shall descend unto my aforesaid three Sons in equal proportion

   and also if after my just debts, funeral Chares & Cost of Settling my Estate there should be any Surplusage of money or Securities Left that my wife Shall have the one third part thereof and the Remaining two thirds to be equally divided between my aforesaid three Sons. ~

   and my will is that my Son William Tomson be Sole Executor to this my Last will and testament—thus hoping that this my will, will be kept & performed according to the true intent and meaning thereof–I Commit my body to the dust and my Soul to God who Gave it– In witness whereof I the aforesaid Caleb Tomson have hereunto Set my hand and Seal this twenty eighth day of December one thousand, Seven Hundred Eighty & five.~

Signed, Sealed & declared by the above named

Caleb Tomson to be his Last will & testament in                                                         Caleb Tomson                                   (seal)

presence of

                                Jacob Tomson junr

                                Abigail Weston 2d

                                  Wm Shaw

 

Presented for probate on 26 March 1787 by William Tomson, the Executor therein named, and proved by Jacob Tomson junr and Abigail Weston ye. 2d. two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to William Tomson, the before named Executor.

 

Jacob Tomson, John Soule, Gentlemen, and Jacob Miller, yeoman, all of Middleborough, were appointed to appraise the estate of Caleb Tomson, late of Middleboro, yeoman, on 26 Mar. 1787. The Inventory of the estate of Caleb Tomson, not dated, totaled £236.4.0, no real estate. The appraisers gave their oath to the inventory on 2 Apr. 1787, and William Tomson, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 4 Apr. 1787.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 30, pp. 100-102, 109, from FHL microfilm #0550716.

 

 

Will of Ebenezer Tomson of Halifax, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1813) *

        In the Name of God amen I Ebenezer Tomson of Halifax in the County of Plymouth & Commonwealth of Massachusetts Esqr. being of sound & perfect Mind & Memory, considering the Uncertainty of this Mortal Life & knowing it is appointed for Man once to die do make & ordain this my last Will & Testament; that is to say – first of all I give & recommend my Soul into the hands of God that gave it & my Body I recommend to the Earth to be buried in a decent Christian Burial at the Discretion of my Executor nothing doubting but at the Resurrection, I shall receive the same again by the mighty Power of God. And with respect to my Estate with which God has blessed me with in this Life, I give demise & dispose of the same in the following Manner that is to say.—

        I give & bequeath unto my Son Josiah Tomson after paying my just debts & funeral Charges out of my Real Estate the one half of all my remaining Real Estate—

        Also I give & bequeath unto my Son Ebenezer Tomson after sd. Debts & funeral Charges are paid all the remaining other half of my Real Estate—

        I also give & bequeath unto my Daughter Susanna Ellis the one third of my personal Estate.

        I also give & bequeath to my Daughter Mary Hayward the one third of my personal Estate—

        I give and bequeath equally unto the Children of my Daughter Eunice Soul late of Middleboro’ decd. the remaining one third of my personal Estate—

        And I do hereby appoint Josiah Tomson Esqr. sole Executor of this my last will & Testament hereby revoking all former Wills by me made—

        In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand & Seal this first day of Sepr in the Year of our Lord one Thousand eight hundred & thirteen –

signed sealed & declared by the above named

Ebenr. Tomson to be his last Will and

Testament in presence of us, who have

hereunto subscribed our Names as Witnesses                                                                Ebenezer Tomson                         (seal)

in the presence of the Testator –

                        Nathl. Morton

                        Zebadiah Tomson

                        Lydia Tomson

 

To the Hon Joshua Thomas Esqr. Judge of Probate of Wills &c for the County of Plymouth

Sir My bodily Infirmities are such, it being inconvenient for me to execute the Duty of an Executor to the last Will & Testament of Ebenezer Tomson Esqr. late of Halifax in said County of Plymouth deceased, I hereby signify the same to your Honour & request that you would appoint the Hon. Isaac Thomson Esqr. to that Trust with the Will annexed

Halifax Novr. 1st. 1813 –                                                                    Josiah Thomson –

 

Presented for probate on 1 Nov. 1813 by Isaac Thomson of Middleborough in said County Esqr., Josiah Tomson the Executor therein named having refused said Trust, and proved by Doctr. Nathaniel Morton and Zebadiah Thomson Esqr., two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Isaac Thomson to faithfully execute the said Will.

 

Isaac Thomson of Middleborough, Esquire, was granted Administration with the Will annexed of the Estate of Ebenezer Tomson, late of Halifax, Esqr., on 1 Nov. 1813.

 

Zebadiah Thomson Esqr., Timothy Wood and Samuel Thomson, Gentlemen, all of Halifax, were appointed to appraise the Estate of Ebenezer Thomson, late of Halifax, Esquire, on 1 Nov. 1813. The Inventory of the Estate of Ebenezer Thomson Esqr., late of Halifax, dated 10 Nov. 1813, totaled $5081.13, including his real estate valued at $4400. Isaac Thomson Esqr., the Administrator with the will annexed on the Estate, gave his oath to the inventory on 7 Feb. 1814.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 45, p. 133-134, from FHL microfilm #0550903, Vol. 46, p. 427, and Vol. 45, p. 244-245.

 

 

Will of Jacob Tomson of Halifax, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1750) *

Know all men By These Presents that: I: Jacob Tomson of the Town of Hallifax in the County of Plimouth in New England Being at this Time under Bodely Infermites yet Being of Sound and Disposing Memory and understanding Blessed Be God for the Same and Being Sencebel of my one Mortality and knowing That it is appointed For all Men once To Die Do make and Ordain this To Be my Last Will and Testement To Remain firm and Invoilable for Ever—Imprimos—I: Give and Bequeath unto my Two Sons Jacob Tomson and Ebenezer Tomson all my Homsted Where: I Now Dwell That is To Say My Lands Meadows and Swamps which Ley there Joyning Together: Execpting that part thereof which is Cedar Swamp with all the Buildings theron the Same To Be Equally Divided Between them onely Reserving unto my Loving Wife Mary Tomson the whole use and Improvement thereof untill my Said Son Jacob Shall arive To the age of Twenty one years and from that Time the use and Improvement of the one Half thereof untill my Said Son Ebenezer arive To the age of Twenty one years and if She then Remains my Widdow She To have the use and Improvement of the one Half of my Dwelling House During the Time She Remains My Widdow: and From the Time that my Said Son Ebenezer arives To the age of Twenty one years: my Said Two Sons Jacob and Ebenezer Shall Find Fire Wood Cut Fit for the fier and Brought To the Dower for there mother: and also provide for her meat and Corn Sufficient for Her Comfortable Subsistence During the Time She Remains My Widdow provided She Continues To Live in my Now Dwelling House—

Item— — I Give and Bequeath unto my Son Nathaniel Tomson all that my Twenty acres of Land in Halifax aforesaid which Did Formerly Belong unto my Brouther Frances Tomson Lying Butting on the Great River only Reserving To my Loving Wife Mary Tomson the Whole use and Improvement of all the Improved Lands thereof untill my Said Son Nathaniel Shall arive To the age of Twenty one years Provided she Shall Remain my Widdow untill That Time—

Item I Give and Bequeath unto my three Sons Jacob Tomson Ebenezer Tomson and Nathaniel Tomson all my Ceder Swamp which is part of my Homsted the Same To Be Equaly Divided among them onley Rezerving To my Loving wife mary Tomson Liberty To Cut So much Ceder thereon as may Be Necessary for the repairing of the fence on my Homested During the Time She hath the Improvement of said Homested and no more: Item: I Give and Bequeath unto my Son Ephraim Tomson all that my third part of a Small Lot of Ceder Swamp in the Second Great Lot in the Greate Ceder Swamp in the Purches called the majors Purches: Item: I Give and Bequeath unto my Son Daniel Tomson all that my one Sixth part of the Second Lot in number in the purches Called Snipetuet purches: Item: it is my Will that my Two Sons Jacob Tomson and Ebenezer Tomson Shall pay as a Legacy unto my Son Daniel Tomson the Sum of Twenty one pounds and Sixe Shillings Lawful money When the Said Daniel Shall arive to the age of Twenty one years To Be paid in Equall Halves Betwen them provided he Live To the age or Leaves Heirs of his Body To Enjoy the Same otherwise they are acquitted of paying Said Legacy: Item: I Give and Bequeath unto my Son Ephraim Tomson out of my Personal Estate the value of Twenty one pounds and Ten Shillings Lawfull Money provided he Live To the age of Twenty one years or Leaves Heirs to Enjoy the Same But in case he Should not then the Same To Be Equally Divided amongst my Surviving Children: Item: I Give and Bequeath unto my Loving wife mary Tom Son Beside the use of my Land and House as Before Reserved to Her: I Give unto Her more Two Cows which She Shall Chuse and my maer and all my Swine To Be at Her own Disposing: and my Will is that in Case my Said wife Remains my Widdow untill my Son Ebenezer Shall arive To the age of Twenty one years from that Time and forward if She Continues To Live in my now Dwelling House my said Two Sons Jacob and Ebenezer Shall Keep for there mother—Two Cows and a Jade Both Winter and Summer so Long as She Remains my Widdow if She Desire it they To Have the Increase of the Cows: Item I Give and Bequeath all the Remaining part of my moveble Estate within Doors and Without Doors and also all the money Which I Shall Have at the time of my Decease and the Debts Due unto me: my Just Debts and funeral charges Being first paid out of the Same to one Half thereof to my Loving Wife Mary Tomson To Be for Her Comfortable Subseistance and To Be at Her one Disposel and the Other Half thereof unto my five Children To bee Equally Divided amongst them and my Will is that if any of my Childron Should Dye Before they arive To the age of Twenty one years that Such Child or Childrons portion that I Have Given them Shall Be Equally Divided amongst my Surviving Childron and My Will is that all the Land which I Have Given to my Childron Shall Belong unto them unto whom I have Given the Same to them and there Heirs and assigns for Ever and my will is that if it Should appear that there is any part of my Real Estate that I Have not particularly Given away or Disposed of the Same Shall Be Equally Divided among all my aforesaid five Childron: and my Will is that my Loving Wife Mary Tomson Shall Be Executriex of this My Last Will and Testement will Be Kept and performed according To the True Intent and Meaning thereof: I Commit my Body to the Dust and my Soul to God that Gave it in Witness Whereof I the aforesaid Jacob Tomson Have Hereunto Set my Hand and Seal this fifth Day of Janauray one Thousand Seven Hundred and Fifty

Signed Sealed and Declared By the

aforenamed Jacob Tomson To Be His Last Will

and Testement in the presents of us                                                                                 Jacob Tomson   (seal)

Jacob Tomson

John Tomson 3d.

Peter Tomson junr.

 

Probated on 1 Apr. 1751, and proved by Jacob Tomson and John Tomson 3rd.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 12, p. 296-298, from FHL microfilm #0551539.

 

 

Will and Agreement of the Heirs of John Tomson of Middleborough, County of Plymouth, Province of Massachusetts Bay (1696) *

Know all men to whome these presents shall come that I John Tomson Senr of ye Township of Middlebury Being at this present very weak in Body through many Infirmities and Diseases that are upon me but of Sound and perfect understanding & memory Do make and ordaine this to be my last will and Testament to Continue for Ever firme and Inviolable. Imprimis I Will and Bequeath unto Mary Tomson my Beloved Wife ye use of one half of my house During her Widdowhoode which half she pleaseth. And ye use of all my household Goods During her Widdowhoode And Six Cows and a score of Sheep And three or four Acres of Land Lying by my house All these to have and to use During ye time of her Widdowhoode And also my Will is that ye Executors shall se that ye said land shall be Improved for her And they shall be paid out of ye Estate And Also I will Leave her one hundred pounds in money to dispose to her children as she shall So Cause but if in Case she should die Intestate my will is that this said hundred pound shall be Equally divided among them all Sons and Daughters that is my own children & hers Also my Will is that she shall have a Cow or a steere Yearly for her provisions And if she Cannot spare it out of that Stock of Cattell then it Shall be provided for her out of ye Estate Also my Will is that whatsoever provisions and cloathing is Left at my Decease shall belong to ye family And my wife shall have a Double part of it at her disposing And whereas I Gave unto my Son John half a Share of Land formerly And he hath nothing to Show for it I now Give it him by will and he shall have fifty Acres of Land where his house Standeth taking it up the Whole Length. Also I Give and Bequeath unto my Son Jacob the House wherein he Dwelleth And ye fourth part of ye upland that is of ye two hundred Acres of upland And also I do give and Bequeath unto my sons Thomas and Peter The one half of my house wherein I do dwell during their mothers life Conditionally that they will agree to keep together and maintain their mothers stock of cattell aforesaid And they shall have the Increase both of cattell and sheep so that they maintain & make good ye principle And if they should Come to some Extraordinary losses so that they are like to be loosers by it they shall be Considered in ye estate And my will is that there shall be meadow set apart to keep those Cattell During their mothers life. And I do Give and Bequeath unto my Son Thomas all my house and the Barn and ye orchard and ye lands Adjacent thereabout after his Mothers decease that will amount to a fourth part of two hundred acres onely if my son Peter have not land Enough fenced and Broaken up he shall have ye use of two or three acres of Land for two years if he Desire it And also I do give and bequeath unto my son Peter That my fifty Acres of upland that I bought of John Morton And whereas I have Given to my Sons John and Jacob and Thomas three Quarters of this two hundred Acres of upland my Will is that in ye Division the fourth part be Left So as to be most sutably divided amongs them all four Also I Give unto my four sons aforesd A third part of Land that was purchased by Captain Joseph Lathrop and Mr Barnabas Lothrop and my self And also I Give unto my four Sons above Written ye one half of that third part of upland that was purchased by Captain Church and my Self the one half of that third part next to Stripefirst pond and my one Sixtenne shilling purchase and that which I bought of John Irish And that Tract of Pond at Aggawamset that I bought of Felix ye Indian And that which I Bought of William Clarke formerly Called ye Majors purchase Lying Betwixt the two parts. A fifth part of that Tract All which I Give to them to divide Equally Amongst themselves And also I Give unto my four Sons aforesaid all that my two hundred Acres of upland lying Between Monponset pond and the Little Herring pond with my four Acres of meadow and my two shares and half in ye Great Sedar Swamp And my two shares and half in ye undivided Lands All which shall be Equally Divided Among my four sons aforesaid. Also my will is That my four Sons shall Have All my Tooles of all Sorts for Carpentry or Husbandry and also all my Armes All to be Equally divided Among them. Also I Give unto my Son Peter Twenty pounds in money towards ye Building of him a house besides four or five thousand foote of Boards and Plank Also I do Give unto my Daughter Mary Tabor thirty and five pounds besides wt is Due to me from her husband Also I do Give unto my Daughter Esther Road thirty and three pounds besides what is Due unto me from her husband Likewise I do Give unto my Daughter Elizabeth Swift twenty and five pounds And also to my Grandson Thomas Swift ten pounds when he Cometh to ye age of one and twenty years And if he should Dye before then it shall be forthwith paid unto his mother Also I Give unto my Daughter Sarah Tomson forty pounds Also I Give unto my Daughter Lidia Soul Thirty and four pounds Besides what she hath had already. Also I do give unto my Daughter Mercy Tomson forty pounds Likewise I do Give unto my son Jacob a Yoak of Steers of four years old or upwards or ye value of them. Also I Give unto my son Thomas a Yoak of Steers and two Cows or ye value of them Also I Give to my Son Peter a Yoak of Steers and two Cows or ye value of them Also my will is that my four Sons John and Jacob And Thomas and Peter Tomson shall be my Executors who shall Receive what is Due unto me and shall pay all my just debts And shall Se that my Body be Decently Buryed And out of my Estate to Defray ye charges And whatsoever is left after my and my Wife’s decease when all Charges is Cleared Shall be Equally Divided Amongst them all my Children Sons and Daughters Thus hoping that this my Last Will and Testament will be kept and performed according to ye true Intent of ye same I Commit my Body to ye Dust and my soul to God that Gave it me In Witness whereof I set unto my hand & Seal this Twenty third day of Aprill one thousand Six hundred ninety and six.

Witness                                                                                                                                  John Tomson                     (seal)

Jonathan Shaw Senr
Joseph King

his I K mark

Anne Waterman

her J mark

 

Memorandum ye 8th Day of July 1696

That Jonathan Shaw Joseph King and Anne Waterman the Witnesses hereto Subscribing made oath all of them that they were present and Saw and heard John Tomson ye Testator here named Sign Seal and Declare the above Written to be his Last will and Testament, And that to ye best of their judgement he was of sound disposing mind and memory when he did ye same.

Before Wm Bradford Esqr Judge.

Attest Saml Sprague Register

 

William Bradford Esqr Commissioned &c for ye Granting of probate of Wills and Letters of Administration within ye County of Plimouth. To all to whom these presents Shall come or may concern Greeting. know ye that on this eighth day of July 1696 Before me in Duxborough the Will of John Tomson Late of Middleborough Deceased to these presents Annexed was proved Approved and allowed who having while he lived and at ye time of his Death Goods Chattels Rights and Credits the said deceased and his said will in any maner Concerning was Committed unto his four sons vizt John Jacob Thomas and Peter Executors in ye same Will named well and truly to Administer ye same And to make a true and perfect Inventory of all & Singular the Goods Chattels Rights and Credits of ye said Deceased and the same to Exhibit into ye Registers office of the said County according to law Also to Render a true and plain account of their said Administration upon oath In Testimony whereof I have here unto set my hand and Seal of ye said office.

Dated at Plimouth

ye 8th day of July 1696:                                                                                                      William Bradford

Saml Sprague Registr

 

Know all men by these presents that whereas our Honoured Father John Tomson Senr of Middleborough Deceased Hath made his last will and Testament Bearing date the twenty third day of Aprill one thousand six Hundred ninty and Six wherein divers particulars Seemed not to be plainly Expressed Wherefore to prevent future Differences we his children whose names are under Written Have Joyntly agreed and Concluded to Rectifie the same as followeth that is to say That whereas in ye said Will there was one hundred pounds in money Given to our Loving mother onely for her to Dispose among her children now we have Agreed that the same Shall be hers as her own proper Estate to use & Improve as She Shall Se Cause. And whereas in said Will our said mother is to have Six Cows & a Score of sheep And that Thomas Tomson & Peter Tomson are to keep and maintain ye said stock Good for her During her Widdowhood & they to have ye Increase And that she was to have a cow or a steer yearly for her provision We now Agree that ye said Cow or steer Shall be allowed to her yearly by the said Thomas and Peter And at her decease the abovesaid Stock is to Return to ye said Thomas and Peter. And whereas there is no mention made in said Will of a horse for our said Mothers own use we do now Agree that there shall be a horse allowed her out of ye Estate in Generall which said Horse is to be kept and provided for by the said Thomas Tomson During her life to be for her own proper use & whereas there is Severall Tracts of meadow which did belong to our said Father lying at Winnetroxet and no mention is made thereof in said Will we do now Agree that all ye said Meadow Shall be Equally Divided among his four sons namely John Tomson Jacob Tomson Thomas Tomson and Peter Tomson to them and their heirs and Assigns for Ever Always provided that there shall be meadow set a part out of ye whole for ye keeping of our mothers said stock during her Life. And whereas in ye said Will our father gave out the severall parcels of land which he was possessed of unto his four sons and no mention made of their heirs we do now agree that all ye said Lands which our father dyed possessed of Shall belong to ye said four sons namely John Tomson Jacob Tomson Thomas Tomson and Peter Tomson to them and their heirs and Assigns for Ever And whereas in said Will It is Expressed that our said Mother should have ye use of three or four Acres of ye Improved land During her Widdowhood And they ye Executors of said will should se that ye said Land Should be Improved for her we do now Agree that ye said executors Shall Improve the said land for her own proper use During her naturall life

And whereas we are Informed that it was our fathers mind that John Tomson Jacob Tomson and Peter Tomson should have thirty pounds in money a peece & ye same not being Expressed in ye Will we do now Agree that they should have ye same And as for what monies Doth Remain after Legacies are paid we do now Agree that it Shall be Equally divided forthwith amongst us all namely to ye four sons and ye Six daughters & their heirs or Assigns And also for what Legacies are to be paid with ye Remaining part of ye Estate which by will is to be Divided unto ye Six daughters shall be to them and their heirs & Assigns though not so fully Expressed in ye will.

In Testimony whereof we whose names are under written have here unto set our hands and Seals this nineteenth day of June one Thousand Six hundred ninety and Six

Signed & Sealed                                  The mark O of                                                     John Tomson                       (seal)

in ye presence of us                             Elizabeth Swift                    (seal)                      Jacob Tomson                      (seal)

The Mark I K of                                  Sarah Tomson                      (seal)                      Thomas Tomson (seal)

Joseph King                                          James Soul                            (seal)                      Peter Tomson                       (seal)

Margaret Price[?]                                 The mark M of                                                     Thomas Tabor                     (seal)

                                                                Mary Tomson                      (seal)                      William Road                      (seal)

 

Memorandum that on ye first day of July 1696.

The Widdow Mary Tomson & Relict of Mr John Tomson late of Middlebury deceased Did Declare her Consent unto and aceaplation of ye particulars above written to her full Satisfaction In Testimony hereof ye said Widdow Mary Tomson hath hereunto set her hand and Seal on ye Day and year above mentioned.

Signed & Sealed in ye presence                                                                       The # mark of ye Widdoe

of  John Trasie[?]                                                                                                 Mary Tomson                      (seal)

        John Soul.

 

Memorand~ ye 8th day of July 1696 ye within named John Tomson Jacob Tomson Thomas Tomson and Peter Tomson all of them Came personally before me ye Subscriber Judge of probate and owned and acknowledged the within written Instrument of Agreement to be their act & Deed And that ye same shall be good & binding to themselves and their Severall heirs for Ever

                                                                                                                                William Bradford

Memorand~ ye same 8th day of July 1696 Joseph King one of ye Witnesses to ye within written Instrument appeared and made oath Before me ye Subscriber Judge of probate that he was present and saw ye within Named John Tomson Jacob Tomson Thomas Tomson Peter Tomson Thomas Tabor William Road Elizabeth Swift Sarah Tomson James Soul and Mercy Tomson Every of them sign & seal the within written Instrument of Agreement as their act & Deed. And ye Mary ye Wife of Thomas Tabor and Lidia ye wife of James Soul were present at ye doing of ye same And that he said King subscribed as witness to said agreement and that he then saw Margaret Price ye other witness Subscribe with him as a witness also

                                                                                                                                William Bradford

 

An Inventory of ye Estate of Lieut John Tomson late of Middlebury deceased

Taken and Apprised by us whose names are under written on ye first of July 1696

[Totaled £1559.0.9]

John Trasie[?]
John Soul

Thomas Faunce

 

The Executors John Tomson, Jacob Tomson, Thomas Tomson and Peter Tomson gave their oath to the inventory on 8 July 1696.

 

* Transcribed with difficulty by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 1, p. 241-245.

 

 

Will of John Tomson of Halifax, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1757) *

Know All Men by these presents, That I John Tomson of the Town of Halifax in the County of Plimouth in New England being at this present time under many bodily Infirmities; Yet of a sound and Disposing Memory and understanding, Blessed be God for the same, and being Senciable of my own Mortality and knowing that it is appointed for all men once to Dye doe make and Ordain this to be my last Will and Testament to Remain Firm & Inviolable for ever,

Imprs. I give and Bequeath unto my well beloved Wife Elizabeth Tomson the use and Improvement of the one half of my Dwelling house and one third part of the Barn, and also the use & Improvement and Income of the one third part of all the Improved Lands and Meadows belonging to my Homestead which lyeth there Adjoyning togather during her Widowhood

Item. I Give and Bequeath unto my son John Tomson and his Heirs and assigns forever, All my Homestead whereon I now Dwell that is to say, all my Lands Meadows & Swamps which lyeth there Joyning togather in the Township of Halifax Aforesd. with all the Buildings & fences thereon; only Reserveing unto My Loving wife Elizabeth Tomson the use and Improvement of the One half of the Dwelling House, and one third part of the Barn, and the use and Improvement & Income of the One third part of all the Improved lands & Meadows thereof during her Widow hood as aforesaid, also Reserving unto my Daughter Lydia Tomson the liberty & privilege to Live in sd. Dwelling House during the time she lives Unmarried, if She see Cause

Also I Give and Bequeath unto my son John Tomson and his Heirs & Assigns forever all my right and Interes in the second lott of Cedar Swamp in the purchase called the Majors Purchase now in the Township of Halifax aforesd. And also all that my seven Twelphs parts of the Second Lott in Number in the purchase called the Snipetuer, purchase lying in the Township of Rochester and also all that my Half Lot of meadow lying in the meadow called Winatruxett meadow with my Right & Interest in the six acres of land Adjoyning thereto; which Half Lott of Meadow and Interest in said Six acres of land fell unto me in the Settlement of the Estate of my Brother Frances Thomson Deced~~

Item, I give and Bequeath unto my Daughter Elizabeth Fuller and her Heirs & assigns for ever all that my lott of land containing Twenty five acres (be it more or Less) Lying and Being in the purchase of Land called the Six & twenty mens Purchase and is in Number the twenty sixth Lott in the Allotment of five & twenty acre Lotts in said purchase~~

Item, I give and Bequeath unto my Daughter Lydia Tomson and her Heirs and assigns forever, All that my Lott of Land lying on the Neck called Assawamsett Neck in the Township of Middleboro’ and is in Number the Sixty Seventh Lott on said Neck~~

Item I Give and Bequeath unto my son John Tomson One of my Guns which he shall chuse and my Sword, and my Cart & Wheals & Plow and also all my tools and Tackling both for Carpentry & Husbandry

Item I Give and Bequeath all My other Moveable Estate whatsoever both without Doors & within Doors, and debts due unto me (after my Just Debts and Funerall charges, and Charge of Settling my Estate are first paid out of the same) in manner following that is to Say, I Give unto my Loving wife Elizabeth Tomson the one half thereof to be at her own Disposing, and the Other half thereof I Give unto my three Children John Tomson, Elizabeth Fuller, and Lydia Tomson the same to be equally Divided between them; And My Will is that my son John Tomson Shall provide fire Wood brot. to the Doore & Cutt fit for the fire, as much as my Loving wife Elizabeth Tomson shall have Occation to use for the fire during the time that She Remains my Widow; And my Will is that my Loving Wife Elizabeth Tomson and My son John Tomson shall be Execrs. Of this My Last Will & Testament, thus Hoping that this my last Will & Testament will be keept and performed according to the True Intent and Meaning thereof I Committ my Body to the Dust and my Soul to God that Gave it, In Witness whereof I the aforesd. John Tomson have hereunto sett my hand and seal, this Eleventh day of May One Thousand Seven Hundred and fifty seven

Signed Sealed & Declared by the                                                                                             his

Abovenamed John Tomson to be his                                                                              John  ß  Tomson                  (seal)

last Will and Testament, In the presence of us,                                                                    mark

Jacob Tomson

Moses Inglee

Ephraim Soule

 

Presented for probate on 5 July 1757 by the Executors therein named, and proved by Jacob Tomson, Moses Inglee, and Ephraim Soul, the witnesses.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 14, p. 312-314, from FHL microfilm #0551542.

 

 

Will of John Tomson of Middleborough, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1766) *

                                                In the Name of God, Amen.

I John Tomson of Middleborough in the county of Plimouth in the Province of the Massachusetts Bay in New-England yeoman, being sick & weak in body, but of a sound & disposing mind & memory blessed be God for the same, wherefore calling to mind the mortality of my body & knowing that it is appointed for all men once to die do make & ordain this my last will & testament to stand & remain firm & inviolable forever, principally & first of all I give & recomend my soul unto God that gave it, & my body I recommend unto the dust to be buried in decent christian burial at the discretion of my executor hereafternamed, nothing doubting but at the general resurrection I shall receive the same again by the mighty power of God, & as touching such worldly estate wherewith it hath pleasd. God to bless me with, I do dispose of the same in the following manner & form.

Imprimis, I give & bequeath unto my true & wellbeloved wife Sarah Tomson all the houshold goods she brought with her unto me & also two cows, four sheep, & my grey mare, pannel & bridle, & also my flower,d curtains, & also the one third part of all the houshold goods I have added to my estate since I was married to her, my other pare of curtains excepted out of the same, the aforesd. legacies to be her own & her heirs forever, I also give unto my sd. wife liberty of living in & improving the best room in my house & also the improvement of one half the chamber in sd. house & one half of the cellar under the same so long as she shall remain my widdow provided she shall improve the same herself & not otherwise, I also give & bequeath unto my aforesaid wife six pounds thirteen shillings & four pence a year & every year so long as she shall remain my widdow, out of the produce of my farm in such a way & manner as I shall hereafter order in this my last will & testament & I also give unto my sd. wife the improvement of one acre of land for a garden lying on the southeasterly corner of the land that I shall give unto my son Isaac so long as she shall remain my widdow: & also six cords of wood for maintaining her fire yearly & every year during the aforesd. term in such a manner as I shall hereafter order, also I give unto her the use of my orchard, viz, to get & to use as many apples as she shall need for her own use during the said term.

Item. I give & bequeath unto my son Shubael Tomson & to his heirs forever all that part of my homestead farm that lieth unto the southward of the partition wall that divides my farm above the road & so the same course that the wall runs from the head unto the foot of the upland, with the buildings & fences on the same now standing (Excepting one half of the corn house which I shall dispose off hereafter). And also the lot of meadow lying at the foot of sd. land that was my honrd. father Shubael Tomson,s. also I give him one half of my husbandry tools & tackling & one pair of oxen, & also give unto him my desk, & my will is & I do hereby order my said son Shubael to render & pay unto my aforesaid wife two pounds, sixteen shillings & eight pence a year & every year so long as she remains my widdow out of the produce of his lands at a reasonable price as indifferent men shall judge, & I also order my said son Shubael to cut & draw fit for the fire three cords of fire wood yearly & every year off the land I shall give to my son Ezra, for the use of my said wife, during the term she shall remain my widdow.

Item. I give & bequeath unto my son Isaac Tomson all that part of my homestead farm that lieth unto the northward of the wall that divides said farm above the road, & so the same course that the wall runs from the head unto the foot of the upland & also all the meadow that I own in the upper-meadow (so called) that is not before given away by this will, together with one half of my corn house standing on Shubael,s part, & also one half of my husbandry tools & tackling together with my colt, to be delivered to him by my Executor at the age of one year old the aforesd. legacy to be his & his heirs forever. & further my will is & I do hereby order my said son Isaac to render & pay unto my aforesaid wife three pounds, six shillings & eight pence yearly & every year so long as she shall remain my widdow, out of the produce of his lands at a price that reasonable men shall judge, & also I order my said son Isaac to cut & draw three cords of fire wood fit for the fire, off the land that I shall give to my son Ezra, yearly & every year for the use of my sd. wife during the term she remains my wido.

Item. I give & bequeath unto my son John Tomson & his heirs forever all my lands that I bought of Lieut. Nelson Finney & also six pounds, thirteen shillings & four pence to be paid out of my moveable estate by my Executor hereafter named, & also my will is & I do hereby order my aforesd. son John to render & pay to my aforesd. wife ten shillgs. a year & every year so long as she shall remain my widdow out of the produce of his land at a price as indifferent men shall judge. – Item. I give & bequeath unto my son Ezra Tomson & his heirs forever two lots of land & quarter of a sawmill that I bot. of Isaac Tinkham & my lot of land I bo,t of Ebenezer Porter & wife all lying in the south purchase in Middleborough aforesd. & my lot of meadow I bo’t of Dotey, & heirs lying in the lower meadows in the 26. mens purchase in sd. Middleboro’. And further my will is that in case any of my aforesd. sons shall die under the age of twentyone years & leaving no issue then his or their parts to be divided equally amongst their surviving brothers.

Item. I give unto my said four sons, namely Shubael, Isaac, John, & Ezra, all my arms & wearing apparel to be equally divided between them. –

Item. I give & bequeath unto my six daughters namely, Susanna Thomas, Lidia Tomson, Sarah Tomson, Fear Tomson, Priscilla Tomson, & Mary Tomson, All the remainder of my moveable estate both indoor & out (not given away) to be equally divided between them after my just debts & funeral charges being first paid out of them allowing six pounds to be deducted out of Susanna,s part, for what she had at the time of her marriage.

Item. I give & bequeath unto my youngest daughter Mary Tomson the use & improvement of my lot of land lying in Pachade purchase in sd. middleborough untill she shall arrive to the age of seven years old, in case she shall live to that age to be improvd. by her mother for her bring up to sd. age. & at the expiration of said term of her arriving to the age of seven years I give & bequeath unto my aforesd. six daughters & their heirs forever the aforesd. lot of land lying in Pachade purchase as aforesd. to be equally divided between them, excepting Mary the youngest of my sd. daughters & she to have an equal share in but two thirds of sd. lot. & I also give & bequeath unto my abovenamed daughters my pew in the gallery in the meetinghouse equally divided between them. my will is that in case any or either of my above named daughters should die before they arrive to the age of twenty one years & having no issue then her or there part to be equally divided among the surviving sisters.

Item. I give unto my aforesaid sons namely Shubael & Isaac my pew below in the meeting house reserving so much of sd. pew as is necessary for my sd. wife to improve for herself so long as she lives my widdow: as also all other real estate that I have not disposd. of before by this will I give to my aforesd. sons Shubael & Isaac & there heirs forever.

Lastly. My will is & I do hereby appoint my son Shubael Tomson sole Executor of this my last will & testament, thus hoping this my last will & testament will be kept & performed according unto the true intent & meaning of it. In testimony whereof I the beforenamed John Tomson have hereunto set my hand & seal the twelvth day of May one thousand seven hundred & Sixty six.                1766.

Signed, sealed, published, pronounced & declard.

by sd. John Tomson to be his last will & testamt.                                                                         John Tomson                     (seal)

in presence of us,  Daniel Vaughn, Jos Tinkham, & Jabez Vaughn.

 

Presented for probate on 4 Aug. 1766 by Shubael Tomson the Executor therein named, and proved by Joseph Tinkham Esqr. and Jabez Vaughn junr., two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Shubael Tomson, the Executor.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of John Tomson, late of Middleboro’, was appraised on 10 July 1766 by Joseph Tinkham, Daniel Vaughn, and Isaac Tinkham, and totaled £945.6.2, including his homestead farm with the buildings and meadows valued at £466.13.4, the farm he bought of Nelson Finney valued at £66.13.4, his Pachade farm valued at £93.6.8, and several other parcels of land. Shubael Tomson, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 4 Aug. 1766.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 19, p. 382-385, from FHL microfilm #0550711.

 

 

Will of Martha Tomson of Halifax, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1760) *

Know all Men by these presents, that I Martha Tomson of the town of Hallifax in the county of Plymouth in New-England, being at this time labouring under many bodily infirmities yet of a sound & disposing memory & understanding, blessed be God for the same, and being sensible of my own mortality, and knowing that it is appointed for all persons once to die, do make & ordain this to be my Last will & testament to remain firm and inviolable forever. –

Imprs. I give and bequeath unto my sister Sarah Tomson the whole use, improvement, & income of all my estate both real & personal, during her natural life. ~

Item, I give and bequeath unto Peter Tomson junr. & Nathan Tomson (sons of my brother Thomas Tomson deced, and to their heirs & assigns forever, all that my one third part of the fourth lot in number in the first allotment of hundred acres lots in the purchase of Land called the Six & twenty mens purchase in Middleborough, and also all that my one third part of the two acres of meadow lying at Namasket-river (so called) adjoining to the aforesaid Lot of land; only reserving unto my sister Sarah Tomson, the use & improvement thereof during her natural life, as aforesaid.

Item, I give & bequeath unto the children of my brother Jacob Tomson deced, and to their heirs & assigns forever to be equally divided among them, all that my one half of that tract of Land whereon I now dwell in Hallifax aforesaid, (the whole tract containing by estimation twenty acres be it more or less) together with the one half the buildings & fences thereon; only reserving unto my sister Sarah Tomson the whole use, improvement & income thereof during her natural life as aforesaid. –

Item, I give and bequeath unto Peter Tomson junr., Francis Tomson, Nathan Tomson, & James Tomson (sons of my brother Thomas Tomson deced) the one half of all my personal estate whatsoever, which shall be remaining at the time of my sister Sarah Tomson’s decease, my just debts & funeral charges being first paid out of said personal estate; the same to be equally divided among them. ~

Item, I give and bequeath unto the children of my brother Jacob Tomson deced the other half of all my personal estate whatsoever which shall be remaining at the time of my sister Sarah Tomson’s decease; my just debts & funeral charges being first paid out of said personal estate, the same to be equally divided among them.

                And my will is that the above-named Peter Tomson junr. shall be Executor of this my Last will & testament. – Thus hoping that this my Last will & testament will be kept & performed according to the true intent & meaning thereof, I commit my body to the dust and my soul to God that gave it.  In Witness whereof I the aforesaid Martha Tomson have hereunto set my hand and seal this first day of July one thousand, seven hundred & sixty. ~

Signed sealed & declared by the above-                                                                                         her

named Martha Tomson to be her Last                                                                             Martha  M  Tomson                            (seal)

will & testament, in presence of us.                                                                                            mark

                Jacob Tomson

                William Torrey

                Jacob Tomson Jr.

 

Presented for probate on 16 May 1770 by Peter Tomson junior, the Executor therein named, and proved by Jacob Tomson and Jacob Tomson junior, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Peter Tomson junr., the Executor.

 

the Inventory of the estate of Martha Tomson late of Hallifax, was appraised on 15 June 1770 by Ebenezer Tomson, Moses Inglee, and Hosea Dunbar, and totaled £139.18.2¼, including her real estate valued at £111.6.8. Peter Tomson junior, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 20, pp. 360-361, 451, from FHL microfilm #0550711.

 

 

Will of Mary Tomson of Halifax, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1756) *

In the Name of God Amen I Mary Tomson of Hallifax in the county of Plymouth widow, Relict of Thomas Tomson Late of said Halifax deceased, being of perfect mind & memory do make & ordain this to be my Last Will & testament—First & principally I resign my Soul into the merciful hands of almighty God, hoping thro’ the merits of Christ for eternal Life, my body I commit to the earth to be decently buryed according to the discretion of my Executor—and as for my worldly Estate, after Just debts & Funeral expences are paid, I Give & bequeath the same as follows

Imprimis—I order that my Estate shall be divided into six equal Shares and I Give to my Sons Reuben, Thomas, Amasa, Ebenezer & Zebediah each of them one Share, and to the Heirs of my daughter Mary Waterman deceased one share—and whereas all my Children have Enter’d into Bonds to pay me a certain sum yearly towards my maintenance during my natural Life, I here order that if any of them are in arrears at my decease not having paid their proportion, that so much as is behind shall be deducted out of their share of my Estate as being already paid

Lastly—I constitute & appoint my Son Ebenezer to be the Sole Executor to this my Last Will & testament—In witness whereof I the said Mary Tomson have hereunto Sett my hand & Seal this First day of May Anno Domini one thousand seven hundred & Fifty Six 1756

Signed, Sealed & declared to be                                                                                                 her

Her Last will & testament in                                                                                             Mary  M  Tomson                               (seal)

presence of                                                                                                                                    mark

                John Cotton

                Hannah Cotton

                Lucy Dyre

 

Presented for probate on 4 July 1781 by Ebenezer Tomson Esqr, the Executor therein named, and proved by John Cotton Esqr. and Lucy Dyre, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Ebenezer Tomson Esqr, the before named Executor.

 

Moses Inglee, Jacob Tomson, and Judah Wood, all of Halifax, yeomen, were appointed to appraiser the estate of Mary Tomson, late of Halifax, widow, on 4 July 1781. The Inventory, dated 7 July 1781, totaled £40.11.9, no real estate. Ebenezer Tomson Esqr, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 2 Dec. 1782.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 28, pp. 182-184, 521-522, from FHL microfilm #0550715.

 

 

Will of Reuben Tomson of Halifax and Middleborough, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1788) *

In the name of God amen I Reuben Tomson of Halifax in the county of Plymouth in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, yeoman, being somewhat under decays of my body but of a sound and disposing mind & memory blessed be God for the same, wherefore calling to mind the mortality of my body & knowing that it is appointed for all men once to die, do make and ordain this to be my Last will & testament, to stand & remain firm & inviolable forever, principally & first of all, I give & recommend my soul unto God that gave it and my body I recommend unto the dust, to be buried in a decent christian burial, at the discretion of my Executor hereafter named, nothing doubting but that at the general resurrection, I shall recieve the same again by ye mighty power of God, and as touching such worldly estate wherewith it hath pleased God to bless me with, I do dispose of the same, in the following manner and form

Imprimis—I Give and bequeath unto my true & well beloved wife, Sarah Tomson, and to her heirs & assigns forever, the one third part of all my personal Estate (that shall remain after my just debts, funeral charges & the expence of settling my Estate is first taken out of all my sd personal Estate, I also Give and bequeath to my said beloved wife, the use and improvement of one third part of all my real Estate so long as she shall remain my widow, and no longer, the Foregoing I mean to include my wifes right of Dower and power of thirds in my estate

        Item—I Give and bequeath to my eldest Daughter Deborah Reed, wife to Micah Reed, & to her heirs and assigns forever, the one fourth part of all the remaining residue of my estate, after my said wife’s Dower, my said just debts, funeral charges & expence of settling my estate, is taken out, and is to include ye one fourth part of that part of my real Estate, that I by this my Last will have given the use & improvement of to my said beloved wife, when she shall cease to be my widow

        Item—I Give and bequeath, unto my Daughter Lucy Drew, wife to Thos Drew the use & improvement of the one fourth part of all my real & personal Estate after my afore mentioned beloved wife hath recieved her Dower, as is before mentioned in this my Last will & testament, and after my just debts, funeral charges and the expence of settling my Estate is first taken out, and to include the use & improvement of one fourth part of that part of my real Estate, that I have given the use and improvement of to my aforesaid beloved wife so long as she shall remain my widow, when she shall cease to be my widow, the afore mentioned articles as I have mentioned them in their order, for my said daughter Lucy, I Give the use & improvement of them to her, during her natural Life, and at her decease my will is and I do hereby give & bequeath the same to all of her children, and to their heirs and assigns forever

        Item—I Give and bequeath to my Daughter Joanna Tomson and to her heirs and assigns forever, one fourth part of all my real & personal Estate after my aforesaid beloved wife hath first recieved her Dower as mentioned in this my Last will and after my said just debts, funeral charges & the expence of settling my estate is first taken out, and to include one fourth part of all of that part of my real estate that I, by this my last will, haven given the improvement of to my said beloved wife so long as she shall remain my widow, when she shall cease to be my widow

        Item—I Give & bequeath to my three grand children namely Reuben Tomson Abel Tomson and Abigail Noice wife to Nehemiah Noice, who were sons & Daughter to my son—Andrew Tomson deceased, to them & to their heirs & assigns forever the remaining part or quarter of my real and personal Estate after my aforesaid beloved wife hath first recieved her Dower before mentioned in this my Last will and after my just debts, funeral charges & the expence of settling of my Estate that I by this my Last will have given the use of to my said beloved wife, so long as she shall remain my widow, when she shall cease to be my widow, the same I give to them, with this reserve only, to reserve to their mother Judith Tomson widow of my said son Andrew Tomson deceased, the use & improvement of the one third part of their shares in my said estate, so long as she shall remain my said son Andrew Tomson’s widow, and no longer – furthermore my will is and I do hereby give to my daughter in law, the said Judith Tomson, the use and improvement of one third part of that part of my Estate that I have by this my Last will given to her afore named three children, so long as she shall remain my said son Andrew Tomson’s deced’s widow, and no longer

Lastly—my will is, and I do hereby appoint my trusty friend Isaac Sherman Esqr of Middlebo in the County of Plymouth aforesaid Sole Executor of this my Last will & testament, thus hoping that this my Last will and testament, will be kept and performed according to the true intent and meaning of it—In Testimony whereof I the before named Reuben Tomson have hereunto set my hand & seal, this twenty eighth day of November, in the year of our Lord Seven hundred & eighty eight

Signed, Sealed, Published, pronounced &

declared by ye aforenamed Reuben Tomson                                                                 Reuben Tomson                (seal)

to be his Last will & testament in the pre-

sence of us the subscribers

                Zenas Cushman

                Susanna Cushman

                James Tinkham

 

The will of Reuben Tomson, late of Middleborough yeoman, was presented for probate on 8 Oct. 1793 by Isaac Sherman the Executor therein named, and probed by Zenas Cushman, Susanna Cushman, and James Tinkham, the witnesses.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 33, p. 433-434, from FHL microfilm #0550717.

 

 

Will of Sarah Tomson of Halifax, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1760) *

Know all Men by these presents That I Sarah Tomson of the town of Hallifax, in the county of Plymouth in New-England, being at this time labouring under many bodily infirmities, yet of a sound & disposing memory and understanding blessed be God for the same, and being sensible of my own mortality, and knowing that it is appointed for all persons once to die, do make & ordain this to be my last will & testament, to remain firm and inviolable forever. ~

Imprimis, I give and bequeath unto my sister Martha Tomson, the whole use, improvement, and income of all my estate both real & personal, during her natural life. –

Item, I give & bequeath unto Peter Tomson junr. & Nathan Tomson (sons of my brother Thomas Tomson deced) and to their heirs & assigns forever, all that my one third part of the fourth Lot in number in the first allotment of hundred acres Lots, in the purchase of Land called the six & twenty men’s purchase in Middleborough.– And also all that my one third part of the two acres of meadow lying at Namasket river (so called) adjoining to the aforesaid Lot of land only reserving unto my sister Martha Tomson the use and improvement there of during her natural life as aforesaid.

Item. I give and bequeath unto the children of my brother Jacob Tomson deced, and to their heirs and assigns forever, to be equally divided among them, all that my one half of that tract of land whereon I now dwell in Hallifax aforesaid the whole tract containing by estimation twenty acres, (be it more or less) together with the one half of the buildings & fences thereon, only reserving unto my sister Martha Tomson the whole use, improvement & income thereof, during her natural life as aforesd.

Item, I give and bequeath unto Peter Tomson junr. Francis Tomson, & Nathan Tomson, and James Tomson (sons of my brother Thomas Tomson deced) the one half of all my personal estate whatsoever, which shall be remaining at the time of my sister Martha Tomson’s decease, my just debts and funeral charges, being first paid out of said personal estate, the same to be equally divided among them. ~

  And my will is that the above-named Peter Tomson junr. shall be executor of this my last will and testament, Thus hoping that this my last will and testament will be kept and performed according to the true intent and meaning thereof, I commit my body to the dust, and my soul to God that gave it. – In witness whereof I the aforesaid Sarah Tomson have hereunto set my hand and seal this first day of July one thousand, seven hundred & sixty. ~

Signed, sealed, & declared by the                                                                                              her

abovenamed Sarah Tomson to be                                                                                    Sarah  S  Tomson                (seal)

her last will & testament in the                                                                                                 mark

presence of us.     Jacob Tomson

                                William Torrey

                                Jacob Tomson junr.

 

Presented for probate on 7 Jan. 1771 by Peter Tomson jr., the Executor therein named, and proved by Jacob Tomson and Jacob Tomson junr., two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Peter Tomson junr., the Executor.

 

The Inventory of the estate of Sarah Tomson, late of Hallifax, was appraised on 15 Jan. 1771 by Ebenezer Tomson, Moses Inglee, and Hosea Dunbar, and totaled £135.13.0, including her real estate valued at £111.6.8. Peter Tomson junr. the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 20 Mar. 1771.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 20, pp. 456-457, 485, from FHL microfilm #0550711.

 

 

Will of Shubael Tomson of Middleborough, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1770) *

                                                In the Name of GOD, Amen. ~

I Shubael Tomson of Middleborough in the county of Plymouth in the province of the Massachusetts-Bay in New-England husbandman, being weak in body, but of a sound and disposing mind and memory blessed be God for the same, Wherefore calling to mind the mortality of my body, and knowing that it is appointed for all men once to die, do make and ordain this to be my Last will & testament to remain firm & inviolable forever.  Principally and first of all, I give and recomend my soul into the hands of God that gave it, and my body I recomend to the dust to be buried in a christian-like decent manner, at the discretion of my executor hereafter-mentioned, nothing doubting at the general resurrection I shall receive the same again by the mighty power of God, and as touching such worldly estate wherewith it hath pleased God to bless me with all in this life I do dispose of the same in the following manner & form.

Imprs. I give and bequeath unto my true and welbeloved wife Ruth Tomson, the one third part of all my indoors movables, and also my three years old cow, and also the best of my swine forever, and also I give unto her the use & improvement of all my real estate, she paying unto my mother Sarah Tomson out of it the legacy expressed in my father’s will yearly, so long as till my son Shubael Tomson shall arrive to the age of seven years, and if he should die before that age, then my will is that she should not enjoy no more than her thirds no longer than till my daughter Susanna should arrive to the age of nine years, and if neither of my children should live to the age aforesaid, then my will is that she should enjoy no more than her thirds; and also I give unto her the improvement of my right in my dwelling house, and my small swarm of bees, and a right for herself in my pew on the floor in the meeting-house, so long as she shall remain my widdow. – The above expressed particulars as I have given them in their order, I mean them to be my wife,s dower or power of thirds. –

Item, I give and bequeath unto my son Shubael all my real estate whereon I now dwell with my right in the pond-oar in the proprietor’s purchase, and my wearing apparel, and my right in the pew in the gallery, and also my desk & my great bottle, to him, his heirs & assigns forever. – And now after my just debts & funeral-charges are first paid, I give & bequeath all the remaining part and residue of my estate unto my daughter Susanna to her, her heirs & assigns forever. And my will is that my son Shubael pay unto his sister Susanna the sum of thirteen pounds, six shillings & eight pence when he shall arrive at the   of two & twenty years, and my will is that if either my children should die, before they arrive to the age of twenty one years, and leaving no issue, that then the surviving shoud, have the other part of my said estate, and if both my children should die leaving no lawful issue that then my real estate shall be equally divided between my breth’ren, and my personal estate among my sisters in equal proportion.

And I do hereby constitute and appoint my Loving brother Isaac Tomson sole executor of this my Last will & testament, hoping that this my Last will & testament will be kept & performed according to the true intent & meaning of it. And also I give unto my brother Isaac the use of my desk & writings until my son Shubael arriveth to the age of twenty one years. –  In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand & seal this twentieth day of January one thousand, seven hundred & seventy 1770. ~

Signed, sealed, published, pronounced & declared                                                       Shubael Tomson                               (seal)

by the sd. Shubael Tomson to be his Last will & testamt.

in presence of us.                 Francis Tomson

                                                Jacob Soule

                                                William Shaw

 

Presented for probate on 6 Mar. 1770 by Isaac Tomson of Middleborough, the Executor therein named, and proved by Jacob Soule and William Shaw, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Isaac Tomson, the Executor.

 

The Inventory of the estate of Shubael Tomson, late of Middleborough, was appraised by Isaac Tinkham, James Cobb, and Francis Tomson, not dated, but totaled £324.17.6, including his homestead buildings, fences and meadow at the foot valued at £233.3.4. The appraisers gave their oath to the inventory on 26 Mar. 1770, and Isaac Tomson, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 17 May 1770.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 20, p. 358-359, from FHL microfilm #0550711.

 

 

Will of Thomas Tomson of Halifax, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1759) *

Know all men by these Presents that I Thomas Tomson of the Town of Hallifax in the County of Plymouth in New England being at this Present Time under many Bodily Infirmitie yet of a Sound and Desposing Memory and understanding Blessed be God for the Same and being Senscable of my own mortality and Knowing that it is appointed for all men onc To Die Do make and ordain this To be my last will and Testament to Remain Firm and Inviolable forever – Imprimis I Give and Bequeth unto my well Beloved wife Martha Tomson the use & Improvement of the one half of my Dwelling house During her widdowhood  Itm. I Give and Bequeth unto my two Sons Peter Tomson and Nathan Tomson all my homstead Land whereon I now Dwel that is To Say all my lands meddows & Swamps which Lye there Joyning together with all the buildings and fences thereon standing the Same to be Equally Devided between Them: only Reserving unto my Loving wife Martha Tomson the use & Improvement of the one half of my Dwelling house During her widdowhood as aforesaid: Also I give & Bequeth unto my Said Two sons Peter Tomson & Nathan Tomson my half Lot of meddow Lying on the South Side of the Brook Called Colchester brook in the meddows in the meddows Called Winnetuxet meddow in Plimtown together with my one half of the Two acres Land Joyning to the South Side of said meddow and also all that my Seventh lot in the fifth Division or Shear in the Second Lot in the great Cedar Swamp in the Purchase Called the Majors Purchase now in the Town Ship of Hallifax aforesaid the Same to be Equally Devided them  Itm. I give & bequeth unto my Son Peter Tomson one Third part of the fourth Lot in Number in the first allotment of hundred acres lots in the Six & twenty mens Purchase So Called Lying in the Township of Midleborough and Buttetts upon Namasket River together with one third part of the Two acres of meddow on sd. River at the foot of Said Lot

Item I Give and bequeth unto my two Sons Francis Tomson and James Tomson my Lot of Land in the Purchas Called Snipetut Purchas Containing about 204 Acres being In Number the nineteenth Lot and also my lot of Cedar Swamp lying in great Cedar Swamp in Said Snipotuot Purchas Containing about 28 acres and also my Ninety Six acres of Land Lying in Said Snipotuot Purchas Joyning unto the South Purchas and also my Right and Intrist which I have in ye. Second Lot in number in sd. Snipotuot Purchas being Part of sd. Lot the Same being To be Equally Divided betwen them  Itm. I Give & bequeth unto my Loving wife Martha Tomson Two Cows and my will is that my two sons Peter Tomson and Nathan Thomson shall Keep the said two Cows for their Mother both winter and Sumer and To Provide for the hay & grass and they to foder said Cows for their mother in the Season thereof During her widdowhood and they to have the Increas of Said Cows and they To make good the Stock if any mishap befall so as that She may Constantly from Time To time be Provided with Two Cows During her widdowhood Provided she Dwelleth in my now Dwelling house, and at the time of her Deceas or marrage the the sd. Peter & Nathan Shall have the sd. two Cows for their own, and my will is that my Said two Sons Peter Tomson & Nathan Tomson Shall find for their mother a hors for her To Ride to meeting and other Plases where she hath ocation During her widdow hood Provided She Continueth to Dwell in my now Dwelg. House. And also that my sd. two sons Peter Tomson & Nathan Tomson Shall fire wood Cutt & Bro’ To the Door for their mother and also Provide for her meat & Corn Sutable and Sufficient for her During her widdowhood Provided She Dwelleth in my now Dwelling house

Itm. I give & bequeth unto my aforesd. wife the one half of all the Rest of my movable Estate whatsoever with the one half of ye. Monny which I Shall have at the time of my Deceas and the one half of the Debts Due unto me) my Just Debts and funeral Charges being first Paid out of said Movable Estate the Same to be for her Comfortl. Subsistance and to be at her own Disposing and the other half of my said moveable Estate monny & Debts Due unto me my Just Debts and Funerall Charges being first Paid as aforesd. Shall be Equally Devided among my four Sons Peter Tomson Francis Tomson Nathan Tomson & James Tomson and my will is that My Loving wife Martha Tomson Shall be Executrix and that my Two Sons Peter Tomson and Francis Thomson Shall be Executor of this my last will and Testament thus hopeing that this my Last will & Testament will be Kept and Performed according to the Trew Intent and meaning thereof I Commit my Body to the Dust & my Soule To God that gave it In witnis whereof I the aforesd. Thomas Tomson have hereunto Set my hand & Seal this 7th Day of July one thousand seven hundred & fifty nine.

Signd Seald. Declared by the                                                                                                       his

afore named Thomas Tomson                                                                                         Thos.  +  Tomson

To be his Last will & Testament                                                                                              mark

In the Presents of us

Jacob Tomson

Nathan Tincom

Jacob Tomson Jur.

 

Presented for probate on 7 Apr. 1760 by the Executors therein named, and proved by Jacob Tomson, Nathan Tinkham and Jacob Tomson Junr., the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to his wife Martha Tomson and his Two sons Peter Tomson and Francis Tomson, the Executors on 7 Apr. 1760.

 

A True Inventory of all the Estate Real and Personal That Thomas Tomson Late of Hallifax deceased Died Seized of apprized on 23 Apr. 1760 by Joseph Bozworth, Ebenezer Tomson and Moses Inglee, and totaled £848.0.8, including his real estate valued at £606.16. Peter Thomson Junr. and Francis Tomson, the Excrs, gave their oath to the inventory on 30 Apr. 1760.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 15, pp. 479-481, 500, from FHL microfilm #0551543.

 

 

Will of Zebadiah Tomson of Halifax, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1773) *

In the Name of God Amen I Zebadiah Tomson of Hallefax in the County of Plymouth In New-England tho of a Weak Body Yet being of Perfect Mind & Memory Do make & Ordain this to be my Last Will & Testament First & Principally I Resign my Soul into the Mercifull hands of Almighty God hoping thro’ the Merits of Christ for Eternal Life my Body I Commit to the Earth to be decently Buried According to the Discretion of my Executor & as for my Worldly Estate After Just Debts & funeral Expences are paid I Give & Bequeath the Same to my Seven Children to them & to their Heirs & Assigns forever in Manner as follows ~

Imprimis I Give & Bequeath to my Son Thomas Tomson a Certain Parcel of my Homestead Land Being the South Westerly Side Thereof & is thirty four Pole in Breadth on a Parallel Line from the South Westerly Side of my Said Homestead Land Also all the Building on said land Except the Corn House And Also Liberty for my Two Youngest Daughters to live In my Dwelling House till Time of Marriage. Item I Give & Bequeath to my Son Thomas all that Part of my Fresh Meadow which Lyeth on the River Down Stream of a Certain Little Brook which Runeth Across Said Meadow Item I Give & Bequeath to my son Thomas a Certain Parcel of Cedar Swamp in the Six and Twenty Mens Purchase so called said Parcel of Swamp I Bought of Lieut. Moses Standish by Deed Bearing Date Tenth June 1763 – Also my Gun

Item I Give & Bequeath to my son Zebediah Tomson A Certain Parcel of my Homestead Land being Thirty Six Pole in Breadth on a Parallel Line from the North Easterly Side of the Said Land which I have Given to my Son Thomas Also my corn House Said Corn House to be Removed of the Land I have Given to my son Thomas by that Time my Son Thomas in One & Twenty Years of Age Item I Give & Bequeath to my son Zebediah my Sword & also my War Stores ~

Item I Give and Bequeath to my son Moses Tomson all the Remaining Part of my Homestead Land which I have not Already Given Away to my Sons Thomas & Zebediah being the North Easterly side Thereof – Item I Give and Bequeath to my Son Moses a Certain Parcel of Land which I bought of Moses Inglee by Deed bearing Date the 16 September 1756. also my Desk. Item I Give & Bequeath to my Son Moses my Pew in Hallefax Meeting House Also my Right in the Stable ~ Item I Give & Bequeath to my sons Zebediah and Moses all that Part of my Fresh Meadow which Lyeth on the River upstream of the afors’d. Little Brook to be Equally divided between them Also my Will is that Such Corn Meat or Other Provisions that may be in the House or on the Farm at my Decease so much as Shall be Wanted Shall be for the Famalys Use that Year Also my Will is that all the Profits of all the Afors’d Lands and Meadows till my Son Thomas is Twenty One Years of Age Shall be for the Use & Benefit of Such Children of Mine as are not Able to Get their Living by Labour or Such as may be Sick Also my Will is that my Son Thomas at the Age of Twenty One Years Shall pay unto my four Daughters Rebecca Wood Zerviah Fuller Marcy Tomson & Rachel Tomson Three Pounds a Piece ~ Item I Give & Bequeath to my Sons Thomas Zebediah and Moses all my Wearing Apparrel to be Equally divided between them. Item I Give & Bequeath to my four Daughters Rebeccah Woods Zerviah Fuller Marcy Tomson and Rachel Tomson a Certain Parcel of Cedar Swamp which I Bought of Blaney Phillips by Deed bearing Date 20th March 1761 ~ & is Part of the Third Share In the Third Great Lot in the Majors Purchase so Called Said Swamp to be Equally divided between them.

Item I Give & Bequeath to my Daughters Rebecca Zerviah Marcy & Rachel all my Moveable Estate that I have not Already Given Away to be Equally divided, between them after my Daughter Rebecca has taken out four Pounds Two Shillings & Six pence & my Daughters Marcy & Rachel has taken out Thirty One Pounds Three Shillings Six pence a Piece to make them Equal with So much that my Daughter Zerviah has Already Receivd ~

Lastly I Constitute and Appoint my Brother Ebenezar Tomson to be the Sole Executor to this my Last Will & Testament In Witness whereof I the Said Zebediah Tomson have hereunto Set my hand & Seal this Third Day of August Anno Dom. One Thousand Seven hundred & Seventy three 1773

Signed Sealed and Declared

to be his Last Will & Testament                                                                                      Zebadiah Tomson                            (seal)

In Presence of

Hosea Dunbar

Jacob Tomson

Zechariah Eddy Junr.

 

Presented for probate on 6 Nov. 1775 by Ebenezar Tomson, the Executor therein named, and proved by Hosea Dunbar, Jacob Tomson and Zechariah Eddy Junr., the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Ebenezar Tomson, the Executor.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Zebadiah Tomson, late of Hallefax, was appraised on 14 Nov. 1775 by Moses Inglee, Jacob Tomson, and Judah Wood, and totaled £748.4.3, including his real estate valued £563.6.8. Ebenezar Tomson, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 4 Dec. 1775.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 24, p. 39-42, from FHL microfilm #0550713.

 

 

Will of Caleb Torrey of Scituate, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1765) *

                                                In the Name of GOD, Amen.

The sixteenth day of July anno Domini one thousand, seven hundred & sixtyfive, I Caleb Torrey of Scituate in the county of Plymouth in New England gentleman, being aged and under infirmity of body, but of a sound mind & memory, thanks be given to GOD for it Therefore calling to mind the mortality of my body, and knowing it is apointed to man once to die, do therefore make & ordain this my Last will & testament in manner & form following, viz. ~~  Imprimis, I give and bequeath to my welbeloved wife Mary Torrey the use and improvement of one half of my land where I now dwell on both sides of the highway, and also one third part of the buildings standing on the same, and also one third part of all my land lying in the county of Barnstable, to whole the same during the whole term of her natural life, saving any part thereof I may dispose off by deed hereafter. Also I give to my said wife, her heirs & assigns forever one fifth part of about 500 acres of land granted by the General-court to be layd. out in the original right of Paul Gillford, as he was a soldier in the Canada expedition in the year 1690, Also I give her one half of my household goods and one half of my out-doors movable estate. — Item I give to my daughters Ruth Torrey, Mary Torrey, Deborah Torrey and Hannah Torrey their heirs & assigns forever, about 500 acres of land granted by said court to be lay’d out in the original right of John Silvester as he was a soldier in the expedition aforesaid, to be divided among them in manner following, that is to say, the said Ruth to have two fifths thereof, and the other each of them one fifth part thereof. Also I give them the other half of my household goods to be equally divided among them, also I give them the privilege of living in the chamber at the southwest corner of my house so long as they live unmarried. –

        Item, I give to my son James Torrey his heirs & assigns forever about 500 acres of land, be it more or less which was granted by said court to be layd. out in the original right of James Glass as he was a soldier in the expedition aforesaid.

        Item, I give to my son George Torrey his heirs & assigns forever about 500 acres of land, be it more or less, which was granted by said court to be layd. out in the original right of Isaac Hanmer as he was a soldier in the expedition agst. Canada aforesd.

        Item, I give to my sons Caleb Torrey & Isaac Torrey equally between them, their heirs & assigns forever, all my land lying in Scituate, Hanover & Pembroke in the county of Plymouth with all the buildings standing on the same, and also all my land lying in the county of Barnstable, saving the improvement given as aforesaid, and also all my land lying in the county of Suffolk, and also all my land lying in Chesterfield in the county of Hampshire. and also four fifth parts of about 500 acres of land granted by the General court to be lay’d out in the right of Paul Gillford as he was a soldier in the expedition aforesaid. And all the rest of my estate real & personal, not before disposed off in this my will, And all the money due to me on bonds, notes of hand, and on book, or otherwise. ~

Item. I do hereby order my sons Caleb Torrey & Isaac Torrey to pay all my just debts, and my funeral charges, & the charge of setling my estate, equally between them out of the estate I have given them in this my will. ~

  Lastly, I do hereby nominate and apoint my sons Caleb Torrey and Isaac Torrey to be joint executors of this my last will & testament.  In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand & seal the day and year first within-written.—

Signed, sealed & declared by the sd. Caleb Torrey                                                       Caleb Torrey                                     (seal)

to be his last will & testament in presence of

us witnesses          Jos. Cushing

                                John Jordan

                                Joseph Cushing junr.

 

Presented for probate on 6 Aug. 1772 by Caleb Torrey and Isaac Torrey, the Executors therein named, and proved by John Jordan, one of the witnesses thereto subscribed, Joseph Cushing esqr. and Joseph Cushing junr. both being since deceased. Letters of Administration were granted to Caleb Torrey and Isaac Torrey, the before named executors, with Jesse Turner, of Scituate, yeoman, as surety.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 21, p. 212-213, from FHL microfilm #0550712.

 

 

Will of Joshua Torrey of Plymouth, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1836) *

        Be it remembered, that I Joshua Torrey of Plymouth in the County of Plymouth make and declare this Instrument, my last will and Testament,

        I give and bequeath to my beloved wife Susan Torrey the use and improvement of all my Estate real and personal during her natural life and if the income thereof be insufficient for her comfortable maintenance and support I authorize and empower her to sell and dispose of the whole or any part of the same, whatever of the said Estate may remain unexpended and undisposed of at the decease of my wife, I give devise and bequeath to Susan Bennet of the City of Boston, widow, and her heirs forever.

        I appoint my wife Susan Torrey Executor of this Instrument

                In testamony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed my seal on this twenty ninth day of August, in the year one thousand eight hundred and thirty six

                                                                                                                                                Joshua Torrey                                   (seal)

Signed, sealed, published and declared by the said Joshua Torrey as his last Will and Testament in presence of us, who in his presence and in presence of each other subscribed our names as witnesses,

        John B. Thomas

        M.A.F. Stevenson

        J. N. Stoddard

 

Presented for probate on 25 Feb. 1839 by Susan Torrey, the Executor, and proved by John B. Thomas and Isaac N. Stoddard, two of the witnesses.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Joshua Torrey, late of Plymouth, not dated, was appraised by George Simmons, Jos. Allen and George Harlow. The real estate was valued at $333.33, and the personal estate totaled $176.37. Susan Torrey, the Executor, gave her oath to the inventory on the second Monday in April 1839.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 81, pp. 52-54, 200-201, from FHL microfilm #0555266.

 

 

Will of Charlott Totman of Adams, Jefferson County, New York (1865) *

In the name of God Amen: I Charlott Totman of Adams Jefferson County & State of New York of the age of Sixty Six years & being of sound mind & memory do make publish & declare this my last will & testament in manner following that is to say:

First.       I direct all my just debts & funeral Expenses to be paid.

Second.  I give & bequeath unto my daughters Relief M. Washburn, Eliza A. Trafton, Charlotte Totman, Sarah B. Heath & Laura J. Gilbert all my real & personal Estate of Whatever name & nature to be divided Equally between them Share & Share alike as nearly as the same may be done ~

Lastly I hereby appoint Albert B. Gilbert of Adams Sole Executor of this my last will & testament hereby revoking all former wills by me made.

                                In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand & seal this Tenth day of October One Thousand Eight hundred & Sixty five.

                                                                                                                                                Charlott Totman                              (seal)

The above instrument Consisting of One sheet was at the date thereof signed sealed published and declared by the said Charlott Totman as & for her last will & testament in presence of us who at her request in her presence & in the presence of each other have subscribed our names as witnesses thereto.

A J Brown Adams Jefferson County NY.

John Schram Adams Jefferson County NY.

 

Presented for probate on 19 Jan. 1875 by Albert B. Gilbert, of Adams, Jefferson County, NY, who listed her heirs as Relief M. Washburn, Laura J. Gilbert and Calvin M. Totman, all of Adams, Sarah V. Heath of Ellisburgh, all of Jefferson County, Eliza A. Trafton of Bristol Center, Ontario County, and Charlotte Brown of Lake City, Minnesota, children of the testatrix all of full age.

 

Proved by Arthur J. Brown of the town of Adams on 8 Feb. 1875, and by Milo B. Randall, of the town of Adams, who was well acquainted with John Schram, late of the town of Adams, but now of North Adams, Massachusetts, on 8 Feb. 1875.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Jefferson County Probate, Wills Vol. 16, p. 42-44, from FHL microfilm #0895400.

 

 

Will of John Townsend of Oyster Bay, Queens County, Province of New York (1705) *

In the name of God Amen the Ninth day of May Annoq Domini one Thousand seven hundred & five I John Townsend of Oysterbay in Queens County on Nassau Island in the Colony of New York Being very sick and weake in Body But of pfect mind & memory thanks be to God Almighty for it therefore calling to mind the mortality of my body & knowing that itt is appointed for all men once to Die I do hereby make & ordain this my Last Will and Testament in mannr. and form following that is to say principly and first of all I Recommend my Soul into the hands of God that gave itt and my body I Recomend to the Earth from whence it Came to be Buried after a Christian like & Decent manner wch I leave to the Discretion of my Executors and touching such Worldly Estate wherewith itt hath pleased God to Bless me within this life I Do give Devise and Dispose of the same in such mannr. and form ass followeth Vizt. Imprimis I Do give & Bequeath unto my Daughter Hannah one Townsmans Right of Land Lying upon Oak neck and pine Island wth what she hath allready had which is in full of her portion out of my Estate &c Item I Give unto my Brother Henrys Four daughters a three year old heifer a ps Item I do give authorize and fully Impower my well beloved wife Esther and my Couzen John Townsend Nathaniell Coles Junr. Samuel Dickins & Isaac Smith to Mannage Improve Lease Sell or dispose of any of my Estate for the Best advantage thereof and the Bringing up of my Children att the Best of their Discretion as also Giving & Granting to my sd Wife Esther and my cousen John Townsend Nathaniel Coles Samuel Dickinson and Isaac Smith full power to Divide my housen Lands meadows Mill and all the Rest of my Estate of what Nature Soever itt be amongst my Children which which I have by my sd Wife Esther only my sd wife to have the use & Benifitt of one third part of my Estate Dureing the time She shall Remaine my Widdow but after her Widdowhood to be Divided or disposed among my sd Children wch I have by her att the Discretion of the prsons above appointed or the Major part of them that shall be then liveing wch Divitions or Divitions when made Shall Stand good be & Remaine to them their heires & assigns for ever, also impowering them the sd Esther John Townsend Nathaniel Coles Samuell Dickinson Isaac Smith to Receive all my Debts and to Se all my Debts paid out of my Estate Disannulling and making void all former wills By me made Ratifying & Confirming this and no other to be my last Will & Testament  In Witness whereof I have hereunto Sett my hand and seale the day & year first above written

                                                                                                                                                John Townsend                                (seal)

Signed sealed published pronounced & Declared by the sd John Townsend to be his last Will and Testament in prsence of

Henry Townsend

Samuell Haydon

Aaron forman

 

Letters of Administration on the estate of John Townsend of Oyster bay were granted to Isaac Smith on 25 Nov. 1706.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from New York County Probate, Vol. 7, p. 351-352, copied from original Liber 7, p. 269-270.

 

 

Will of John Townsend of Oyster Bay, Queens County, Province of New York (1730) *

                In the Name of God Amen—I John Townsend of the Township of Oysterbay in Queens County on the Island of Nassaw although sick in body yet of good perfect and sound memory praised be Almighty God therefore do make and ordain this present will and testament containing therein my last will in manner and form following that is to say first I commend my soul to the Mercy and Protection of Almighty God being fully persuaded by his holy Spirit through the death and Passion of Jesus Christ to obtain full Pardon and Remission of all my Sins and to inherit everlasting Life to which the Holy Trinity One eternal Deity be all Honour and Glory forever Amen.  Imprimis I will that all such debts as I owe shall be truly Paid. Item I give and bequeath to my Sisters Son William Coxen fifty Pounds lawful Currt Money of the Province of New York. Item I give to my brother Thomas Ten Pounds of like lawfull money and also unto my very good friend Gervas Mudge (of the township and County aforesaid) whom I make sole Executor of this my last will and testament I give demise and bequeath to him and his heirs all and every my Messuages Lands Tenements and Hereditaments whatsoever and wheresoever which I also charge with the Payment of all my debts legacies and funeral expences.

                In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and Seal the 13 day of January Anno Dom 1730

                                                                                                                                                John Townsend                                (seal)

                Sealed published and declared by the above named John Townsend for and as his last will and testament in the presence of us

Thomas Pearsall

Thomas Pearsall Junr

Nathaniel Pearsall

 

Probated on 20 Oct. 1760, and proved by Thomas Pearsall of Queens County and township of Hampstead Yeoman. Whereas the said John Townsend in his life time made his last will and testament in writing bearing date the thirteenth day of January One Thousand seven hundred and thirty and thereby appointed Jarvis Mudge sole Executor thereof and some time after dyed, And whereas the said Francis Mudge is since also deceased, therefore Letters of Administration with will annexed were granted to Townsend Dickenson on 30 Oct. 1760.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from New York County Probate, Vol. 22, p. 274-175, copied from original Liber 22, p. 242-243.

 

 

Will of Silvanus Townsend of North Salem, Westchester County, New York (1799) *

In the Name of God Amen. I Silvenus Townsend of North Salem in the County of Westchester and State of New York Considering the Uncertainty of this mortal Life and being of sound Mind and Memory Blessed be Almighty God for the same do make and publish this my last Will and Testament in manner and form following that is to say First I Give and devise unto my son William Townsend his heirs and assigns a certain Tract of Land in North Salem aforesaid Begining at a heap of Stones by the Road that leads to Bedford, thence westwardly to a heap of Stone by the Mill Pond, thence Southwardly by the Brook to Denton Smiths Land, thence Southwardly to a great Neck near a Butnut Tree thence Eastwardly to a heap of stones, thence Northwardly to the Corner of a fence by a Heap of stones by the old House Lott thence westwardly to Bedford Road, thence Northwardly by the said Bedford Road to the first mentioned Bounds Together with all the Buildings and Appurtances thereunto belonging. Also I do give and devise unto my son Silvanus Townsend a certain Tract of Land situate in North Salem aforesaid and to his Heirs and Assigns one certain piece or parcel of Land beginning at the Corner of a Stone Garden fenced on the Bedford Road Running Eastwardly to the Oblong Line to a Chesnut Tree Thence South to the South East Corner of my Land to a heap of stones thence west to a heap of stones on the Line between me and Seth Finchs Thence Northwardly to the old House Lott Corner, thence westerly as the Fence goes to the Highway that leads to Bedford thence by the Road to the Northwest Corner to the first mentioned Bounds—

Also I give and demise unto my said son Silvanus Townsend his Hiers and Assigns a certain Piece of Meadow Land lying on the Bedford Road North of my House Cornering near Charles Amblers Farm which farm now belongs to Samuel Barnum and by the Road leading to Denton Smiths. Also a piece of Land on the Bedford Road Begining at a Heap of stones running westwardly in Company with my son William Townsend to the Mill Pond thence northwardly to the Fence, then following the Fence as it runs to the Bedford Road and by said Road to the first mentioned Bounds. Also I do Give and demise unto my son James and to his Hiers and Assigns a certain Tract of Land or piece of Land in North Salem aforesaid Begining at the Northwest Corner of my Land running to the Brook by the Line between me and Denton Smith, thence by the Mill Pond to the Mill Thence across the Brook to the Corner of Meadow Fence – Thence by said Fence to the Highway, Thence Westwardly by the Highway to the first mentioned Bounds. Also a Piece of Land Begining at a Butnut Tree Running on the Line between me and Denton Smith to a heap of Stones thence eastwardly by Nathan Slokum and Seth Finch to a heap of stones, thence Northwardly to a Heap of Stones, Thence westwardly by the Line of William Townsend to a Butnut Tree being the first mentioned Bounds. Also I Give and Bequeath unto my Daughter Easter Townsend her Hiers and Assigns all my Beds and Beding and all my other Household Furniture and also two good Cows to her and her Hiers and Assigns. And also it is my Will and order that out of the Remaining Part of my Real and Personal Estate that all my Debts be Honesly paid. And also that my said Daughter Easter shall have my East Large Room and the Chamber above the said Room also part of the Kitchen Room, also part of the Cellar and also a decent Living of Meat, Bread, Clothing and all Necessaries to compleat a good living be provided for her during her living a single woman and providing she my said daughter Townsend should marry a Husband that is to say Easter Townsend it is my Pleasure that she shall be paid by my Executors out of the remaining part of my Estate as beforementioned fifty Pounds New York Money in six Months after her Marriage. And it is my Will and Order the provision before ordered shall cease that is to say Meat, Bread and other Necessaries and House Room so that the Estate be no more burdened – with her and as touching the Remainder Part of my real and personal Estate I Give, demise and bequeath unto my two sons Samuel Townsend and Justus Townsend their Hiers and Assigns equally to be divided Between my said sons Samuel Townsend and Justus Townsend and I absolutely order that my two sons Samuel Townsend and Justus Townsend shall have free passage through my son Salvanus Townsends Land which Land is mentioned in this my Will to pass and Repass in the most convenient Place or Places to get to thier Lands. And I do hereby appoint William Townsend, my son Silvanus Townsend my son and my son Justus Townsend Executors of this my last Will and Testament hereby revoking all former Wills by me made. In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal the twenty first day of August in the Year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and ninety nine.

                                                                                                                                                Silvanus Townsend                         (seal)

Signed, Sealed, Published, Pronounced, and declared by the said Silvanus Townsend as his last Will and Testament in the presence of us the subscribing Witnesses that is to say

Samuel Barnum

Clarissa Barnum

James Dickinson

 

Probated on 30 Jan. 1806 in White Plains, Westchester County, New York, and Letters of Administration were granted to William Townsend, one of the Executors, on 11 Feb. 1806.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Westchester County Probate, Vol. F, p. 185-188.

 

 

Will of Thomas Townsend of Hempstead, Queens County, Province of New York (1779) *

Know all men by these Presents that Thomas Townsend in the Township of Hempsted in Queens County on Nassau Island in the Province of New York being this twenty first day of ye tenth month Called October 1779– very sick in Body but of sound Mind and understanding, and Calling to mind the uncertainty of time am Will to settle my outward affairs before my final Change doth come therefore do make this present writing to contain my last Will and Testament in manner following Viz. I will and order my Executors hereinafter named to pay all my Just Debts and all other necessary Charges that may happen in the performance of my Will. Item I give unto my beloved wife my riding Chair and the choice of my Horses, two Beds and furniture and three hundred pounds to her own free Disposall, and also to have the priveledge of living in my House so long as she remains my Widow, and my Will is that she should have the priveledge of all my Lands to bring up my Children upon until my youngest Son come of age Except such Legacies given particularly given to my Sons as they respecfully come of age, and if the use of my land is not sufficient to maintain my Family upon then my Will is that my Executors take so much of my moveable Estate as is sufficient for their support but if there should be any overpluse, I give it all to be equally to be Divided be Divided between my Sons William gervise – John and Obediah Townsend and whereas my Daughter Anne I have given the sum of one Hundred and Seventy Pounds or so much in valley of Goods and things I the give sum of Eighty Pounds more at some reasonable time after my Deceas’d at the Discretion of my Executors hereafter named, Item I will and bequeath unto my Daughters Each of them, Viz, Pamela, Phebe, Sarah, and Mary Townsend the sum of Two Hundred and fifty pounds and to receive their Legacies as they respectfully come of age or on their day of Marriage when those terms may happen which Legacies I order to be paid out of my moveable Estate in such a manner as my Executors shall think proper so to do, then as to the remainder of all my Estate besides what is above given both real and Personal I give to my Sons, Viz, William Gervice John and Obadiah Townsend all to be equally to be Divided Between them my Sons and they to receive their Legacies and parts of Lands as they respectfully come of age. And after my Youngest Son come of age then my Will is that all my Sons should be at equal Expense in bringing up the Younger Children or those that have not arrived to Lawful age and if any of my Sons Die under age or without Lawful Issue then my Will is that their portion should fall equally between the other Brothers and I also desire my Exts to give my Children a suitable share of Learning at their Discretion and to give my sons Trades such as they may think proper and if my Executors should find in the Division of my Estate Occation or think it best to sell the whole or any Part of my Estate in a futer day I give them and each of them the Burthen of Executorship to give Deed or pass Deeds as the Law directs in such Cases, and whereas I am now in Posession of some Negroes and taking the Matter under solid Consideration being our fellow Creatures do feel a freedom in my mind to sett them fully at liberty believing it to be consistant with the Will of knid Providence who hath created all nations with one Blood and I do by Virtue of these presents Declare and set them all free at my Decease Viz. Cano my Negro Man and Fabothy my Negro Woman with three Children, viz, Rachael Jamiah and Freelove Declareing them to be Absolutely free forever and that none of my Children nor their Heirs Extes shall have no right to make any demand of any of them nor any of their Estates they may acquire from hencforth and forever – Lastly I do Constitute and appoint my Wife my Executrix and my Son William Townsend and my Brother in Law Samuel Titus and my Brother in Law William Loines to be my Executors giving them and each of them full power and Lawful Authority to Execute this my last Will and Testament in Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand the day and year above written.—

                                                                                                                                                Thomas Townsend                          (seal)

Signed Sealed Published and Declared to be my last Will and Testament in the Presence of us.~/:~

                                                                                                                                                Richard Titus

                                                                                                                                                Mary Post

                                                                                                                                                Henry Post ~

the date of these Presents was put in figures before these Presents was Executed. ~/:~  Memorandum, notwithstanding what is before written I do give unto my Son Gervis Townsend a young Bay Hors Bridle and Sadle at his own free disposal before any Division be of my Estate being all wrote before these Presents was Executed. ~/:~

 

Probated on 11 Feb. 1780, and proved by Mary Post and Henry Post both of the said County the former his wife and the latter yeoman. Letters of Administration were granted to Mary Townsend, William Townsend, Samuel Titus and William Loines, the Executrix and Executors, on 8 July 1780.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from New York County Probate, Vol. 32, p. 393-396, copied from original Liber 32, p. 287-289.

 

 

Will of Jesse Tripp of Rochester, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1789) *

This fifth day of August in the Year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and eighty nine, I Jesse Tripp of Rochester in the County of Plymouth in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Yeoman being in health and of a sound disposing Mind and Memory do make & ordain this my last Will and Testament, hereby disposing of such worldly Estate as it hath pleased God to bless me with in this Life in the following Manner, that is to say—

        Imprimis I give and bequeath to my Son Jesse Tripp whom I do hereby appoint & ordain my sole Executor of this my last Will & Testament, all my live Stock of every kind except one Cow, also all my farming tools & all Credits that may be due to me at my decease, he paying all my just debts & funeral Charges and the several Legacies hereafter given herein—

        Item I give unto my four Sons namely Jonathan Tripp, Reuben Tripp, Calvin Tripp & John Tripp severally fifteen Dollars each to be paid them respectively by my Executor in live Stock within three Years after my decease.—

        Item I give to my said Son Jonathan Tripp all my wearing Apparel.—

        Item I give to my Daughter Mercy Ellis three shillings to be paid her by my Executor at my decease—

        Item I give and bequeath to my two daughters Elizabeth Tripp & Hannah Tripp all my indoor moveables to be equally divided between them, also one Cow equally between them so long as they both shall continue unmarried, but if either of them shall decease or marry, then the one surviving or single shall solely possess the property of the said Cow. I likewise give to these two daughters last mentioned the privilege of living in my house, to draw Water at my well & to lay their Fire wood by the House & a privilege in the Cellar for Sauce & the like— which privileges shall be enjoyed by them so long as they remain unmarried respectively & no longer—In Witness whereof I the said Jesse Tripp do hereunto set my hand and Seal the day & year first above written—

Signed sealed published & pronounced by the said

Jesse Tripp as his last Will & Testament in presence of us

        Joseph Bennet

        Isaac Walker                                                                                                                Jesse Tripp                         (seal)

        John Pickens

 

Presented for probate on 6 Dec. 1806 by Jesse Tripp, the Executor therein named, and proved by John Pickens, one of the Witnesses thereto subscribed, Joseph Bennet being now deceased, and Isaac Walker removed out of the Commonwealth. Letters of Administration were granted to Jesse Tripp, the Executor.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Jesse Tripp, late of Rochester, was appraised on 6 Dec. 1806 by Nathaniel Hammond, Thomas Ellis, and John Clark, and totaled $269.57, no real estate. Jesse Tripp, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 9 Apr. 1807.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 40, p. 526-527, from FHL microfilm #0550901, and Vol. 42, p. 373.

 

 

Will of David Turner of Plymouth, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1766) *

In the Name of God, Amen. –

Whereas I David Turner of Plymouth in the county of Plymouth boat-builder, am arrived to such an age that I may justly expect my dissolution drawing near, tho’ at present blessed be God am well and in health, and am of a sound disposing mind & memory, think it my duty to dispose of my estate by will; and therefore I do –

In the first place give my soul to God, hoping for mercy, pardon, & eternal life, in and thro’ the merits of my dear Redeemer, my body I comit to the dust to be decently buried at the discretion of my executor hereafter named, not doubting it will be raisd. again at the Great day of Christ’s appearing. and as to the worldly estate God has or may bless me with I dispose off as follows. ~~

Imprimis, I give and bequeath to Ruth Turner daughter of my nephew David Turner of Plymouth Shipwright a good feather-bed & furniture, & six handsome silver spoons to be paid her by my executor at the time she shall arrive at the age of eighteen years or at the time of marriage, if she should marry before she arrives to that age. ~

2. I give to my nephew David Turner of Plymouth shipwright to him & his heirs forever, all the rest of my estate real or personal of what nature soever, lying and being in Plymouth or elsewhere, he paying all my just debts, & the above mentioned Legacy. And further, I do hereby appoint, ordain & constitute my said nephew David Turner sole executor of this my Last will & testament, hereby revoking & making void any or all other wills I have heretofore made, declaring this to be my Last will and Testament.—  Dated at Plymouth the fourth of June anno Domini 1766. in the sixth year of his Majesty’s reign.

Signed sealed, pronounced, published, &                                                                       David Turner                    (seal)

Declared to be his Last will & testament

In presence of—                  Stephen Samson

                                                Elisabeth Foster

                                                Thos. Foster.

 

Presented for probate on 6 Feb. 1769 by David Turner, the Executor, and proved by Thomas Foster esqr. and Stephen Samson, two of the witnesses. Stephen Samson, blacksmith, and Ephraim Spooner, merchant, were sureties on the bond of David Turner, boat-builder, as Executor.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 20, p. 183-184, from FHL microfilm #0550711.

 

 

Will and Codicil of John Turner of Scituate, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1775) *

In the name of God amen the twenty seventh day of January A.D. 1775 I John Turner of Scituate in the County of Plymouth in New England yeoman, being aged and infirm of Body, but of sound mind & memory, do make this my Last Will & testament as follows, First, recommending my soul to God & my body to the Earth to decent burial, I Give & dispose of my worldly Goods & Estate in manner & form following that is to say ~

Imprimis—I Give & bequeath unto my beloved wife, Mary Turner the use & improvement of all my Real Estate, untill my three youngest daughter vizt, Mary, Lucy & Ruth shall arrive to the age of Eighteen years old, she maintaining them out of said improvement and then I Give her the improvement of One third part of my Real Estate & firewood so Long as she shall remain my widow also I Give her all my Live stock & farming tools & one Quarter part of my house hold Stuff when my aforesaid daughters shall arrive to the age of Eighteen years old, Also I Give her Eighty pounds Lawfull money, all the aforementioned I Give her to her own dispose forever, in case she shall never make any demand on my Estate by virtue of any contract or covenant I entered into with her, before marriage

Item—I Give unto my daughter Grace Jones, wife of John Jones Five pounds Lawful money, and if she should survive her said husband, then at his decease, I Give her Forty Eight pounds six shillings & Eight pence Lawful money ~

Item—I Give unto my daughter Deborah Oakman wife of Samuel Oakman Fifty six pounds thirteen shillings & four pence Lawful money ~

Item—I Give unto my Grandson Melzer Turner Oakman Twenty six pounds, thirteen shillings & four pence Lawful Money

Item—I Give unto my three youngest daughters vizt. Mary Turner, Lucy Turner & Ruth Turner all my Real Estate to them, their Heirs & assigns forever to be equally divided between them when the youngest of them shall arrive to the age of Eighteen years old. & also the remainder of my personal Estate not before disposed of, to be in Like manner equally divided between them, and if either of them should die before she arrives to the age of Eighteen years, then the whole of said Real & personal Estate, shall be equally divided between the two surviving sisters

Lastly—I do hereby appoint my wife Mary Turner sole Executrix of this my Last Will & Testament and order her to pay the aforementioned Legacies & all my Just debts, funeral charge & the charge of settling my Estate out of my money & notes of hand–In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand & seal the day & year aforewritten

  signed, sealed, published & declared by sd. John                                                        John Turner                       (seal)

  Turner to be his Last Will & Testament in

  presence of ~

                Nathan Cushing

                John James

                John Foster ~

 

A Codicil to be taken as part of the afore written Last Will & testament of John Turner —

whereas since the making of my Last Will & testament aforewritten, I have had one child born vizt. Rachell and their being no provision made in the aforesaid Will for said child—I the said John Turner do therefore hereby Give unto my said daughter Rachel Turner her Heirs & assigns for ever one fourth part of my Real Estate & one fourth part of my personal Estate after the Legacies are paid, that are contained in the aforesaid Will, provided she shall Live to the age of Eighteen years old and in case she should not arrive to that age, then all my Real and personal Estate shall be divided & disposed of in manner & form as is provided and ordered in my Last Will & testament aforewritten, and I do hereby ratify and confirm my said Will in all respects, not hereby varied or altered and declare this to be a codicil, and to be taken as part of my Last Will & testament – In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand & seal this thirteenth day of December A.D. 1777 ~

  Signed, Sealed, published & declared by the said

  John Turner as a Codicil and to be taken as part                                                        John Turner                       (seal)

        of his Last Will & testament in presence of –

                                Nathan Cushing

                                John Foster

                                Anna  X  Stetson

 

Presented for probate on 21 Aug. 1778 by Mary Turner, the Executrix therein named, and proved by Nathan Cushing Esqr. and Anna Stetson, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Mary Turner, the before named Executrix.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of John Turner, late of Scituate yeoman, not dated, was appraised by John Cushing, John Briggs, and Elisha James, and totaled £3056.16.9, including his real estate with the buildings thereon valued at £1434, blacksmith’s tools, and notes of hand worth £554.18.3. Mary Turner, the Executrix, gave her oath to the inventory on 27 Oct. 1778.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 25, p. 76-78, from FHL microfilm #0550713.

 

 

Will of Thomas Turner of Scituate, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1720) *

I Thomas Turner of Scituate in ye. County of Plymouth in new England Esqr. Being Sick and weak of Body; but of Sound mind & memory (praised be God for it) Do make & ordain this my last Will & Testament in manner & form following; vizt: First of all I Comend my Soul to God that Gave it, and my Body to decent Buriall att the Discretion of my Executors hereafter named, and Touching my worldly Estate I Give Demise and Dispose Thereof in manner & form following.

Imprimis I do hereby Order, appoint & Improve my Executors hereafter named, vizt. my two Sons
David Turner & Thomas Turner to make Sale of So much of my Lands & reall Estate as may be Sufficient for the Payment of my Just Debts: and what Shall Remain of my Estate both reall and Personall, after my Just Debts paid as aforesd. I Give to my beloved Wife Hannah Turner, the use or Improvement thereof during Her Natural Life, for Her own Support and the bringing up my Children, She remaining my widdow: and after Her Death or Remarrage which Shall first happen, my mind & Will is that the Remainder of my Estate both Reall & Personall; Shall be Equally Divided, unto & among Ephraim Turner, Releif Ewell, Ruth Turner, Sarah Turner, Jemima Turner, Lettis Turner, Abigail Turner, and Mary Turner, To them their Heirs, and assignes forever: To be Equally Divided betwixt them as aforesd. & In Case of my Wife’s Remarrage my mind & Will is that my sd. Wife Shall have Thirty Pounds Paid Her out of my Estate Then the Remainder of my aforesd. Estate Shall be Equally Divided unto & among my sd. Children their Heirs & assignes as aforesd. Lastly I do hereby nominate & appoint my aforesd. Sons David Turner & Thomas Turner to be Joynt Executors to this my Will & Testament: In Witness this nineteenth Day of December, anno Domini One thousand seven Hundred & Twenty, In ye. Seventh year of His Majestys Reign

Signed Sealed Published & Declared by ye. sd.

Thomas Turner to be his last Will & Testament                                                           Thomas Turner                 (seal)

in presence of us Witnesses

Caleb Loring

Samuel Barker

Nathaniel Pitcher

 

Probated on 26 Jan. 1720[/21], and proved by Samuel Barker and Nathaniel Pitcher, two of the witnesses. Letter of Administration were granted to David Turner and Thomas Turner, sons of the deceased abnd Joynt Executors, on 3 Apr. 1721.

 

A True and Perfect Inventory of the Estate of Thomas Turner Esqr. Late of Scittuate, appraised by Nathaniel Tilden, John Barker, and Samuel Turner on 24 May 1721, totaled £792.6.0, including his housing and lands at home, his meadow lands and upland with a Clift Lot valued at £440, and his lands lying upon & about the hill called by the name of Churches Hill valued at £250. David Turner and Thomas Turner, the Executors, gave their oath to the inventory on 5 Apr. 1722.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 4, pp. 292-293, 337, from FHL microfilm #0550510.

 

 

Will of Thomas Turner of Pembroke, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1788) *

  In the name of God Amen – I, Thomas Turner of Pembroke in the county of Plymo. & Comwealth of Massachusetts Gentleman, being far advanced in years, & not having reason to expect a long continuance in this life, being nevertheless (thro’ ye favour of God), of sound & disposing mind & memory, after recommending my soul to God who gave it & my body to decent christian burial, at the discretion of my executors herein after named, Do make & ordain this to be my last will & testament, herein & hereby disposing of ye worldly estate wherewith God has been pleased to bless me, in manner following – vizt

  Imprimis – I Give & bequeath to my beloved sons Thomas Turner junr. & George Turner all my real estate wherever the same may be found, to be equally divided between them, after the debt which I have contracted with my son George by an instrument bearing date Sepr. 3d. 1788 to be paid in Land shall have been discharged out of the same, the real estate however thus given to my sons Thomas & George & also the Pew given to my son George as hereafter named are given them by me, subject to the limitations & restrictions with regard to improvement hereafter mentioned

  Item – I Give to my Son Thomas Turner junr. my Silver tankard & my Pew in the first Precinct meeting house in Pembroke next to the women’s door, and my Desk

  Item – I Give to my Son George, my Pew in the first Precinct meeting house in Pembroke next to the pulpit stairs, and I also give him my Clock & one bed with a bedstead & bed cord, under-bed two coverlids, two pair of sheets, one blanket, one bolster, two pillows & two pair of pillowbers

  Item – I give & bequeath to my beloved wife Mary Turner one hundred pounds Lawful money to be paid to her by my Executors in silver at the rate of six shillings and eight pence per ounce within three months after my decease, and if not paid at the end of said three months then to draw Interest from that time ‘till paid. I also give her the use & improvement of all my houshold furniture & plate except those articles thereof before particularly disposed of, during the time she may continue to be my widow

  I give also to my wife two Cows & six sheep such as she shall chuse, my best horse my chaise & one swine, her cows, sheep & horse to be well kept winter & summer, and her Lambs kept in the summer, the charge of keeping the said cows horse, sheep & Lambs to be born by my two sons Thomas & George, equally between them, and the Lambs to be at her own disposal, during her widow hood before mentioned. I also give her the use & improvement of one half of my dwelling house & of one half of my garden, also the use and improvement of my chaise horse & a privilege in my corn house, all during her said widowhood, and I also give her, ten cords of wood ready cut at her door, yearly & twelve bushells of Indian Corn, three bushells of Rye & two hundred weight of beef annually during her said widow-hood, all which wood, Indian Corn, Rye & beef to be supplyed to her by my two sons Thomas & George equally between them

  Item – I Give & bequeath to my well beloved daughter Mary Hatch over & above what I have before time given her, the sum of two hundred & fifty pounds Lawful money to be paid her in Silver at the rate of six shillings & eight pence per ounce, within one year after my decease to draw Interest from the time of my decease ‘till paid, provided my son in Law Seth Hatch shall become obligated to pay my wife Mary Turner the sum of twelve pounds Lawful money in silver at the rate of six shillings & eight pence per ounce towards her support during her widowhood aforesaid, and I also give my said daughter Mary one third of that part of my household furniture & plate, whereof my wife is to have a temporary use, when her mother’s improvement thereof has ceased

  Item – I Give & bequeath to my beloved daughter Lucy Cushing over & above what I have before time given her the sum of two hundred & fifty pounds Lawful money to be paid her in silver at the rate of six shillings & eight pence per ounce, within one year after my decease to draw Interest from the time of my decease ‘till paid, provided my son in Law Nathaniel Cushing shall become obligated to pay to my wife Mary Turner, the sum of twelve pounds Lawful money in silver at the rate of six shillings & eight pence per ounce, annually, towards her support during her widowhood aforesaid. and I also give my said daughter Lucy one third of that part of my houshold furniture & plate whereof my wife is to have a temporary use, when her mother’s improvement thereof has ceased

  Item – I give & bequeath to my beloved Daughter Mercy Turner the sum of Six hundred pounds Lawful money over & above what she hath already had to be paid her in silver at the rate of six shillings & eight pence per ounce, one quarter part of the said sum vizt. one hundred & fifty pounds to be paid her within one year after my decease & the other three quarters thereof vizt. four hundred & fifty pounds to be paid her within five years after my decease. Interest on the said Six hundred pounds to be paid her annually from ye. time of my decease ‘till the principal shall be paid, and I also give to the said Mercy one third of that part of my houshold furniture & plate whereof my wife is to have a temporary use when her mother’s improvement thereof has ceased. Also the privilege of sitting in my Pew next to the pulpit stairs, if at any time she shall need & desire it

  Item – I give & bequeath to Martha Ramsdell for the regard I have for her, the sum of Ten pounds Lawful money to be paid her by my Executors within twelve months after my decease, not in specie, but in such other articles as may be convenient for her at the market price

  Item – The residue of my personal estate, after my debts & funeral charges & the Legacies shall have been paid, I give to my two sons Thomas Turner junr. & George Turner to be equally divided between them, they contributing to their mother’s support & accommodation as before provided, and further I do declare it to be my intent & meaning that the real & personal estate thus given to my sons Thomas & George, is given them by me, under the following restriction & limitation and it is my will, that my Daughter Mercy be honorably supported & provided for out of the said real or personal estate, or both, if at any time during her natural life, she shall be unable, and for so much of the time as she may be unable to maintain herself, her own estate being expended, in which case the one half of the charge of her support shall be born by my Son Thomas & the other half of it by my Son George. and it is my desire that my Sons Thomas Turner junr. & George Turner, should take the Guardianship of my Daughter Mercy if her situation & circumstances shall at any time be such as to render Guardianship necassary.

  Lastly – I do hereby appoint my Sons Thomas Turner junr. & George Turner to be Executors of this my Last will & testament.— In witness whereof I have hereunto Set my hand & Seal this Sixth day of September Anno Domini one thousand seven hundred & eighty eight

Signed, Sealed & declared by the said Thomas

Turner the above written testator to be his                                                                      Thomas Turner                                 (seal)

Last will & testament in presence of

                Dav. Stockbridge junr

                Thomas Nash

                Nathaniel Sylvester

 

Presented for probate on 3 March 1794 by Thomas Turner and George Turner, the Executors therein named, and proved by David Stockbridge, Thomas Nash and Nathl. Sylvester, all the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Thos. Turner and Geo. Turner, the before named Executors, both of Pembroke, with David Stockbridge and Nathaniel Sylvester, both of Hanover, yeoman, as sureties.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 33, p. 561-564, from FHL microfilm #0550717.

 

 

Will of George Vaughan of Middleborough, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1816) *

        In the Name of God amen. I George Vaughan of Middleborough in the County of Plymouth & Commonwealth of Massachusetts being weak of Body, yet of a sound & disposing Mind & Memory, blessed be God for the same, considering that it is appointed for all men once to die, do make & ordain this my last Will & Testament to remain firm & inviolable forever and first of all I give my Soul to God who gave it & my Body to the Dust to be buried in a Christian decent Burial & as touching such worldly Estate wherewith it hath pleased Almighty God to bless me with I dispose of the same as followeth, viz

                Imprimis I give and bequeath to my well beloved Wife Mercy Vaughan all my household Furniture excepting such Articles as shall be hereafter devised, to her, & to her own use & disposal. And also I give to my said Wife the use & improvement of all my Estate both real & personal, for the support & maintenance of my said Wife & my two Children Julia & George Vaughan untill my said Son George does arrive to the Age of fourteen Years, if she remains my widow to that Period. But if she should marry that she then relinquish all her right & Title to the Improvement of all or any part of my real Estate —

                Item I give and bequeath to my Son George Vaughan & to his Heirs and Assigns forever all my real Estate excepting such parts as I shall order to be disposed of. I also give to my said Son all my neat Stock my farming Tools & mechanic Tools & all other out door moveables, one good Feather bed & Bedding for the same, my Silver Watch & silver Spoon marked G.V. and all other personal Estate not otherwise disposed of —

                Item I give and bequeath to my Daughter Julia Vaughan four hundred Dollars to be paid to her by my said son George Vaughan, when he does arrive to the Age of twenty one Years in the following payments one hundred Dollars to be paid in one year & one hundred Dollars to be paid in two years & one hundred Dollars to be paid in in three years & one hundred Dollars to be paid in four years.—

                Furthermore my will is & I do appoint Silvanus Tillson sole Executor to this my last will & Testament —

                Lastly my will is, and I do authorize & direct Silvanus Tillson my Executor to sell at public auction or at private sale at his Election & pass Deeds to convey a certain piece or parcel of Land situated in said Middleborough in rocky Wood so called, which was set off & Assigned to me in the Settlement of the Estate of my Hond Father George Vaughan late of Middleborough deceased, & is a part of that Lot of Land, which my sd. Father & Silvanus Wood bought of Peleg Hacket now deceased.— & Also to make Sale & pass Deeds to convey a certain piece of Salt Meadow situated & lying in the Town of Sandwich in the County of Barnstable, which I hold by Deed under the Hand and Seal of the Guardian of Robert Vaughan estimated at two Acres be the same more or less, and the proceeds of those pieces of real Estate be appropriated for the payment of my just Debts & incidental Charges; and the Surplus, if any to be put on use for the Benefit of my Son George Vaughan. —

                Thus hoping that this my last Will and Testament will be kept & performed according to the true Intent & meaning of it, I the said George Vaughan have hereunto set my hand & Seal, this twenty sixth day of November in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and sixteen —

Signed sealed and declared

in presence of us –                                                                                                               George Vaughan                             (seal)

                Moses Shaw

                Cushman Vaughan

                David A Vaughan

 

Presented for probate on 13 Dec. 1816 by Silvanus Tillson, the Executor therein named, and proved by Cushman Vaughan and David A Vaughan, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Silvanus Tillson, the before named Executor.

 

John Tinkham Esqr., Hopestill Bisbe, yeoman, and Seth Southworth, Gentleman, all of Middleborough, were appointed to appraise the Estate of George Vaughan, late of Middleborough, yeoman, on 13 Dec. 1816. The Inventory of the Estate of George Vaughan, late of Middleborough, was dated 7 Jan. 1817, his real estate totaled at $2455, including his homestead land and buildings valued at $1300, the land in Rocky Woods valued at $625, and the Salt Meadow in Sandwich valued at $100, and his personal estate totaled $1263.25. Silvanus Tillson, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 14 Apr. 1817.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 48, pp. 281-283, 433-434, from FHL microfilm #0550905.

 

 

Will of Jabez Vaughan of Middleborough, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1770) *

                                                In the Name of GOD, Amen.

I Jabez Vaughan of Middleborough in the county of Plymouth in his Majesty’s province of the Massachusetts-Bay in New-England being under decay of body but of a sound & disposing mind & memory blessed be GOD for the same, wherefore calling to mind the mortality of my body, and knowing that it is apointed for all men once to dye do make and ordain this to be my Last will & testament to stand firm and inviolable forever.  Principally and first of all I give & recomend my soul unto GOD that gave it, and my body I recomend unto the dust, to be buried in decent christian burial at the discretion of my executor hereafter-named; and as touching such worldly estate as it hath pleased GOD to bless with, I do dispose off in manner following, to wit.  Imprimis I give and bequeath unto my son Daniel Vaughan all my homestead whereon I now dwell, being two twenty acres lots, and all my meadow-lands lying in the upper meadow adjoining at the foot of the aforesaid lots. Also the one half of my share of cedar-swamp lying in the great cedar-swamp; all in the Six & twenty men’s-purchase in Middleborough. I give the same unto him his heirs & assigns forever. also I give unto him my oxen & horse, horse-tackling & chains, my little desk, & all the papers in it, and the one half of my wearing aparel, and also all the debts due to me; and further I order my said son Daniel to pay unto my daughter Joanna Redding thirteen pounds, six shillings & eight pence lawful money in one year after my decease, and to pay all my just debts and funeral charges. ~

  Item. I give and bequeath unto my son Ebenezer Vaughan my farm whereon he now dwelleth, excepting twelve acres lying at the south-easterly end thereof, and the one half of my cedar-swamp lying in the great cedar-swamp, all in the Six & twenty men’s-purchase the said farm and cedar-swamp I give to him and to his children begotten of his body, if he shall have any, but in case he should have no children my will & meaning is that after his decease his wife Rachel should have the one half of the improvement of said farm so long as she shall remain his widow, with liberty of cutting of fire-wood & fencing-stuff for her own use & no more. And also the improvement of one half the buildings on said farm. And in case said Rachel should out-live her husband and enjoy the one half of the improvement of said farm, & buildings, the other half of said improvement to go to my two daughters Deborah Torrey & Joannah Redding and their heirs, and after the decease of my son Ebenezer & decease or marriage of his wife the cedarswamp to go to my son Daniel and his heirs & assigns forever, and the farm to be equally divided between my son Daniel Vaughan & daughter Deborah Torrey & daughter Joannah Redding or their heirs, In case my son Ebenezer should die without issue.– I also give unto my son Ebenezer my gun that is now in his hands, and my sword & cane, and the other half of my wearing aparel which is not yet disposed off. Said wearing aparel to be equally divided between my two sons Daniel & Ebenezer.

  Item, I give and bequeath unto my daughter Deborah Torrey the wife of William Torrey twelve acres of land with the buildings, whereon she now dwells; being part of the farm whereon my son Ebenezer now dwells. Said twelve acres is bounded as followeth, towit, to begin at the most southerly corner bound of my said farm, from thence by a strait line to a red oak tree marked standing on the North-westerly side of the country-road near the dwelling-house, from thence by a strait line unto a white pine marked on four sides Standing near the old road with stones about it, and from said pine a strait line unto the westerly line of said farm, so as to exactly include twelve acres, this I give unto my aforesaid daughter Deborah Torrey during her natural life, and then unto her children after her, and to their heirs and assigns forever. I also give unto her all my movable estate she hath already in her hands. ~  Item. I give and bequeath unto my daughter Joannah Redding thirteen pounds, six shillings & eight pence lawful money, to be paid her by her brother Daniel in one year after my decease, also I give unto her my best bed bed-stead & furniture belonging unto it, and after that is taken out, the other part of all my movable estate that is not heretofore disposed off, I give unto my two daughters Deborah Torrey& Joannah Redding equally to be divided between them or their children. ~

  Item. I give all my Lands & iron-oar that is not heretofore disposed off unto my son Daniel, and his heirs & assigns forever.—

   Lastly, My will is and I do hereby constitute and appoint my aforesaid son Daniel Vaughan to be sole executor of this my Last will & testament. Thus hoping that this my Last will & testament will be kept firm & performed accordingly unto the true intent & meaning thereof, and I do hereby revoke & disanul all former wills made by me. –

   In testimony whereof I the aforesaid Jabez Vaughan have hereunto set my hand and seal this seventeenth day of March one thousand, seven hundred & seventy, 1770. ~

Signed, sealed, published, pronounced &                                                                                 his

declared by the aforesd. Jabez Vaughan to be                                                                Jabez   J   Vaughan                             (seal)

his Last will & testament in presence of                                                                                  mark

Francis Tomson, James Cobb, Isaac Tomson.

 

Presented for probate on 3 May 1773 by Daniel Vaughan, the Executor therein named, and proved by James Cobb and Isaac Tomson, two of the witnesses. Letter of Administration were granted to Daniel Vaughan, the Executor.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 21, p. 300-301, from FHL microfilm #0550712.

 

 

Will of James Vaughan of Carver, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1845) *

                Be it remembered that I James Vaughan of the town of Carver, in the County of Plymouth and Commonwealth of Massachusetts, being of sound mind and memory, do on this twenty second day of september in the year of our Lord Eighteen hundred and forty five make and publish this my last Will and Testament, in manner following, viz.

In the first place I order my Executor after my decease to pay all my debts, Funeral Charges and incidential expenses and erect suitable grave stones at my Grave

Second, I give and bequeath to my son Daniel Vaughan (after above expenses shall have been paid) one half of all my Bank stock, Notes of hand, or other property not disposed of

Third I give and bequeath to my Grandson James V. Faunce (after the above named expenses Shall have been paid) the other half of my said Bank stock, Notes of hand, or other property not disposed of, provided he the said James V. Faunce pay out of his said half fifty dollars to his brother Daniel Faunce, and twenty five dollars to his sister Maria (the wife of Zadock Wight) who were children of my daughter Nancy, by her husband Alden Faunce

Lastly, I do appoint William H. Soule my Executor of this my last Will and Testament

In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and seal the day and year above written.  Signed, sealed, and published by the said James Vaughan declaring this to be his last Will and testament revoking all others heretofore made, in presence of us, who at his request were called as witnesses to the same, in his presence did hereto subscribe our names

                William H. Soule                                                                                                 James Vaughan                (seal)

                Seth Shurtleff

                Mercy Shurtleff

 

Presented for probate by William H. Soule, the Executor, and proved by Seth Shurtliff and Mercy Shurtliff, two of the witnesses, the date not given, but the inventory of his estate was dated 22 Jan. 1849, by Luther Bradford, Isaac Wright, and Seth Shurtleff, and totaled $2735.71, and William H. Soule, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on the second Monday of April 1849.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 91, p. 169-171, from FHL microfilm #0555640.

 

 

Will of Joseph Vaughan of Middleborough, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1732) *

Know all Men by these Presents that I Joseph Vaughan of the Town of Middleborough in the County of Plymouth in the Province of the Massachusetts Bay in New England being under the Decays of old age, yet of sound & disposing Mind & Memory, blessed be God therefore Yet not knowing how Soon God may call me hence by Death do make & ordain this and no other to be my last Will & Testament to remain firm & inviolable forever —

Impr. I Give & bequeath unto the Heirs & assigns of my Son Elisha Vaughan deceased the Hundred acre Lot of Land on which he formerly dwelt. Item I Give & Bequeath unto my Son Jabez Vaughan one third Part of my Lot of Cedar Swamp: Also I Give unto him my Son Jabez all my Right & Interest in the four acres of Meadow which was laid out in the last allotment of meadow; Also I Give & Bequeath unto him my sd Son Jabez All my Right in the South Purchase, viz, Two Shares in the Undivided. I order him my sd Son Jabez to pay unto my loving Wife thirteen Pounds in money within one year after my Decease. Item I Give Unto my Son George Vaughan all my Right & Interest in two Lots of Upland, one of them is lying upon the Fall brook, and the other lyeth lyeth in that called the Sixteen Shilling Purchase. Also I Give and Bequeath unto him my Son George Vaughan one third Part of my Cedar Swamp abovesd. Item I Give & Bequeath unto my son John Vaughan my Homestead with my Dwelling house Barn & Out housing, With all the Profits Priviledges & appurtenances thereunto belonging to him his Heirs & assigns forever. Item I also Give unto him my sd Son John Vaughan my Lot of Meadow being my old Lot of Meadow in the lower Meadows containing five acres more or less— Also I Give & Bequeath unto him my son John Vaughan my other third Part of my Cedar Swamp abovesd —Item I Give & Bequeath unto my three Daughters Betty, Mary & Joanna All my Houshold Stuff which I have not already Disposed of, viz: I Give & Bequeath unto my Daughter Betty Cob five & twenty Pounds besides what I have already Given her. Item I also Give unto my other Daughter Mary Mariner Twenty Pounds out of my Estate, besides what I have already Given her. Item I Give unto my other Daughter Joanna Samson Twenty Pounds out of my Estate. Item my Will is that my Son John Vaughan do pay as is hereafter Mention, viz: Unto my Daughter Betty Cobb five and twenty Pounds which I Bequeathed to her abovesd: Also my Will is that he my Son John do pay unto my Daughter Mary Mariner Twenty Pounds which I Bequeathed to her abovesd: Also my Will is that he my Son John do Pay unto my other Daughter Joanna Samson the Twenty Pounds which I Bequeathed her by this my Will: All wch Several Payments he shall pay within two Years after my Decease: My Will is this that my Loving Wife shall have all which She brought with her to me Restored to her again after my Decease (Which is according to Contract or Covenant made between my Self & her before Marriage: Also I Give unto her my Wife all my Sheeps wool now in the Houses. Item I Give unto my three Sons viz: Jabez, George & John Vaughan all my Tools which is used in my Shop to be equally Divided among them. I likewise Give and Bequeath unto them my three Sons abovesd. all my Wearing Apparrell to be equally Divided among them. Item I Give & Bequeath unto all my Children all my Books to be equally Divided among them. Also I Give & Bequeath unto my Son Jabez Five Pounds to be paid out of my Stock: And my Will is that ye Remainder of my Stock go to pay my Debts & funeral Charges: Also my Will is that if hereafter it shall appear that there is any other Rights of Land which do now of Right belong unto me which are not above mentioned They shall be equally Divided among my three Sons above mentioned. Item my Will is further that my two Sons Jabez & George Vaughan shall be Executors of this my last Will & Testament, Thus hoping that this my last Will & Testament will be kept & performed according to the true Intent & meaning thereof, I Commit my Body to ye Dust & my Soul to God that gave it: In Witness whereof I have hereunto Set my hand and affixed my Seal this twelfth Day of March and in the fifth Year of the Reign of Our Gracious Sovereign George ye Second King of England Scotland France & Ireland &c. and in the Year of our Lord God Annoq Domini One thousand Seven hundred & thirty two—                                                 Joseph Vaughan                               (seal)

Signed Sealed Published Pronounced & Declared                       

to be his last Will & Testament In Presence of us

                                                  his

Ebenezer Morton  Joseph  + Williams  Nathan Bassett

                                                mark

 

Proved on 15 March 1733/34 by Ebenezer Morton, Joseph Williams, and Nathan Bassett, the witnesses.

 

The Inventory of all the Personal Estate of Capt. Joseph Vaughan, late of Middleborough, was appraised by Nathan Bassett, Jacob Tomson, and Ebenezer Morton on 25 Mar. 1734, and totaled £110.8.4. Jabez Vaughan, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 1 Apr. 1734.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 7, p. 18-20, from FHL microfilm #0550513.

 

 

Will of Peter Vaughan of Middleborough, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1788) *

Know all men by these presents that I Peter Vaughan of Middleborough in the county of Plymouth and Commonwealth of Massachusetts, being weak of body yet of a sound and disposing memory and understanding blessed be God for the same, yet knowing the mortality of the body and that it is appointed for all men once to die do make and ordain this my Last will & testament, to be firm and inviolable forever.~

Imprimis – I Give and bequeath to my well beloved wife Joanna Vaughan one third part of my moveable Estate, both indoor and out door and also the improvement of one third part of my Lands & buildings during her natural Life ~

Item – I Give and bequeath to my eldest son George Vaughan (besides what I have heretofore Given him) the sum of five shillings to be paid to him as hereafter expressed

Item – I Give and bequeath to my Son Joseph Vaughan (besides what I have heretofore Given him) five shillings to be paid as hereafter expressed.~

Item – I Give and bequeath to my Son Daniel Vaughan (besides what I have heretofore Given him) the sum of five shillings to be paid as hereafter expressed

Item – I Give and bequeath to my Daughter Susanna Vaughan one Good Cow, and also the two thirds of my indoor moveables

Item – I Give and bequeath to my Son Peter Vaughan all my whole right, title & Interest in any Lands and buildings both at home and abroad, being the Homestead farm whereon I now Live as well as out Lands, Swamps & meadows, besides what I have conveyed to him by Deed; also all my out door moveables (excepting the Dowry of my said wife as above Given to her out of my Real Estate, and the moveables above disposed of) to have and to hold to him his Heirs & assigns

I hereby order my said Son Peter Vaughan on forfeiture of the above bequests to him, to pay the above mentioned Legacies together with all my just debts and funeral Charges out of what is above Given him also I Give to my said Son Peter my one half of a Pew in the meeting House in the first Precinct in said Town

Item – my will is and I hereby constitute and appoint my said son Peter Vaughan junr. to be Executor to this my Last will & testament–thus hoping that this my Last will and testament will be carefully kept and performed according to the true intent and meaning thereof I commit my soul to God who Gave it, and my body to the dust to a decent burial – In witness whereof I the said Peter Vaughan have hereto Set my hand & Seal this third day of May in the year of our Lord One thousand, seven hundred eighty and eight

Signed, Sealed & declared by the said

Peter Vaughan to be his last will & tes-                                                                          Peter Vaughan                                  (seal)

tament in presence of us.~

        Sylvanus Tilson

        Jacob Wood

        Nehemh. Bennet

 

Presented for probate on 1 Sept. 1788 by Peter Vaughan, the Executor therein named, and proved by Jacob Wood and Nehemiah Bennet, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Peter Vaughan, the before named executor.

 

Jacob Wood and Nehemiah Bennet, yeomen, and Ezra Harlow, Gentleman, all of Middlebo, were appointed to appraise the estate of Peter Vaughan, late of Middlebo, yeoman, on 1 Sept. 1788. The Inventory of the estate of Peter Vaughan, late of Middleborough, was appraised on 26 Sept. 1788, and totaled £528.2.3, his real estate valued at £375.10, including his homestead lands and buildings valued at £130, and lands conveyed to his son Peter by deed of gift valued at £161.10. Peter Vaughan, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 6 Oct. 1788.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 30, pp. 412-413, 451, from FHL microfilm #0550716.

 

 

Will of Phebe Vaughan of Carver, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1845) *

                In the name of God Amen, I Phebe Vaughan of Carver in the County of Plymouth, and commonwealth of Massachusetts Widow, being of sound and disposing mind and memory, do make this my last will and testament, I commit my soul to God the author of it, and my body to the earth to be decently buried at the discretion of my executor hereinafter mentioned, as to my worldly estate, I hereby dispose of the same in the following manner

First I give, bequeath and devise, to my two Grandaughters Phebe Ann and Hannah Sherman my best bed bedstead and Beding sufficient for the bed, also fifty dollars each to be paid out of my estate

Secondly I give and bequeath to my Grandaughter Phebe Ann Sherman my gold necklace

Thirdly I give and bequeath, to my son in-law and daughter, Andrew and Calista Sherman all the remainder of my property both real and personal.

Finally I hereby appoint Timothy Cobb to be executor of this my last will and testament hereby revoking all other and former wills by me made, and declaring this, and this only to be my last Will and testament

        In witness whereof I hereunto set my hand this twelfth day of March, in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and forty five

                                                                                                                                                Phebe Vaughan                                (seal)

Signed, published, pronounced and declared by the said Phebe Vaughan to be her last Will and Testament, in presence of the subscribers, who in her presence and at her request, and in presense of each other hereunto set our hands as witnesses

        Timothy Cobb

        Mary Shearman

        Jane E. Cobb

 

Presented for probate on the third Monday of January 1849 by Timothy Cobb, the Executor therein named, and proved by Timothy Cobb, one of the witnesses.

 

Timothy Cobb was appointed as Executor of the last Will and Testament of Phebe Vaughan, late of Carver, widow, on 15 Jan. 1849, with Andrew Sherman, of Carver, and Joshua Eddy, of Middleborough, as sureties.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Phebe Vaughan, late of Carver, was appraised on 9 Mar. 1849 by Thomas Cobb, Alvan C. Harlow, and Ezra Vaughan, and totaled $466.80, including a small piece of fresh meadow valued at $50, and $275.75 in savings. Timothy Cobb, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on the second Monday of April 1849.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 91, pp. 33-34, 172, from FHL microfilm #0555640, and Vol. 2H, p. 187.

 

 

Will of Priscilla Vaughan of Middleborough, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1817) *

In the Name of God amen I Priscilla Vaughan of Middleborough in the County of Plymouth and Commonwealth of Massachusetts widow of Nathan Vaughan late of Middleborough deceased, being weak of Body yet of a sound & disposing Mind & Memory, blessed be God for the same, considering that it is appointed for all men once to die, do make & ordain this my last Will & Testament, to remain firm & inviolable forever And first of all I give my Soul to God who gave it and my Body to the Dust to be buried in a Christian decent Burial & as touching such worldly Estate as it hath pleased almighty God to bless me with I do dispose of the same as followeth — viz

after paying all my just debts & funeral Charges –

                Imprimis I give and bequeath to my Daughter Polly Sampson widow of Thomas Sampson late of Middleborough deceased, and to her Heirs forever all my right Title & Interest which descended to me in all the real Estate that did belong to my Son Nathan Vaughan late of sd. Middleborough deceased also I give & bequeath to my sd. Daughter Polly Sampson & to her Heirs forever all my right Title & Interest, which descended to me in all the real Estate, which did belong to my Daughter Thankful Gorham now deceased Also I give & bequeath to my sd Daughter Polly Sampson all my right & Interest in a Pew in the Revd. Samuel Nelson’s Meeting house on the lower Floor –

                Item I give and bequeath to my sd. Daughter Polly Sampson all my household Furniture & my Wearing Apparel, & all other personal Property which I am possessed of and not otherwise disposed of by this my last Will and Testament.—

                Item I give & bequeath to Betsey Cushman Vaughan Daughter of Cushman Vaughan my Gold Beads to be delivered to her after my decease –

                Item I give & bequeath to the Heirs of my Son Josiah Vaughan deceased one Dollar to be paid to them by my Executor after my decease.—

                Lastly my Will is & I do hereby appoint my sd. Daughter Polly Sampson sole Executor to this my last Will & Testament, thus hoping that this my last Will & Testament will be kept & performed according to the true Intent & Meaning thereof. I the said Priscilla Vaughan have hereunto set my hand & seal this twenty fourth day of October in the Year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred & seventeen.—

Signed sealed & declared in presence of us

        Silvs. Tillson

        Jeremiah Wood                                                                                                            Priscilla Vaughan                           (seal)

        Peter Vaughan

 

Presented for probate on 6 Sept. 1819 by Polly Sampson, the Executrix therein named, and proved by Silvanus Tillson and Peter Vaughan, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Polly Sampson, the before named Executrix.

No inventory of her estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 50, p. 374-375, from FHL microfilm #0550906.

 

 

Will of Ignatius Vinal of Scituate, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1802) *

In the name of God Amen.— I, Ignatius Vinal of Scituate in the County of Plymouth, yeoman, being of sound mind & memory; after committing my soul to the author of my existence, & my body to decent burial, do make & ordain this, to be my last will & testament, this fourteenth day of November Anno Domini 1802, in manner following—vizt.—

Imprs I Give and bequeath to my well beloved wife Eunice, the use & improvement of the whole of my estate, both real & personal, during her natural life; and at her decease, my will is, that my estate, be then equally divided, between my Brother Job Vinal & my Sister Patience Vinal, to them, their heirs & assigns.

Lastly—I do hereby constitute & appoint my wife Eunice Vinal Executrix of this my last will & testament, she paying all my just debts and charges.— In Witness whereof, I hereunto Set my hand & seal the day & year above written.

Signed, Sealed, Published and De-

clared by ye sd Ignatius Vinal to be                                                                                  Ignatius Vinal                                   (seal)

his last will & testament in pre-

sence of

                Eleazer Peakes

                Ward Litchfield

                Rowland Litchfield

 

Presented for probate on 18 Dec. 1802 by Eunice Vinal, the Executrix therein named, and proved by Eleazer Peakes and Rowland Litchfield, two of the witnesses.

 

Hayward Peirce, Esqr., Eleazer Peakes & Roland Litchfield, yeomen, all of Scituate, were appointed to appraise the estate of Ignatius Vinal, late of Scituate, yeoman, on 18 Dec. 1802. The Inventory, dated 18 Dec. 1802, totaled $1727.71, his real estate totaled $1190, including about 33 acres of land with a Dwelling house & barn valued at $990. Eunice Vinal, the Executrix, gave her oath to the inventory on 18 Dec. 1802.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 38, p. 233-235, from FHL microfilm #0550720.

 

 

Will of Thomas Wade of Bridgewater, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1726) *

In ye Name of God Amen. ye 14th day of march 1726. I Thomas Wade of Bridgewater in ye County of Plymouth In New-England being old & full of days Though of Sound mind & memory knowing that I must shortly die & leave ye World do make & ordain this my last Will & Testament that is to Say Principally & first of all I give my Soul back again unto that God that gave it, hoping for Pardon of all my Sins Through Jesus Christ & my Body I Comitt to ye Earth to be decently buried at ye discretion of my Executor; and as Touching my worldly Estate I dispose of ye same in manner following that is to Say:

1. I give unto my Eldest Son Joseph Wade Twenty Shillings & no more.

2. I Give unto my daughter Sarah Wade Twenty Shillings & no more.

3. I give unto my Son Thomas Wade five Pounds & one third Part of all my Right in ye West Cedar Swamp together with all my Carpenters tools these I give unto my Son Thomas His Heirs & assignes forEver.

4. I give unto my daughter Hannah Lothrop Wife to Edward Lothrop Five pounds & no more this I give unto Her & Her Heirs.

5. I give unto my daughter Rachel five Pounds & no more.

6. I give unto my Son Ichabod Wade (whome I appoint Sole Executor to this my last Will & Testament) unto Him His Heirs & assignes all my Homestead or home lying in sd Bridgewater Excepting a Small tract or parcell of Land that Lies on ye West Side of ye Road together with one third Part of all my Right In ye West Cedar Swamp, and all my meadow Land & all my moveable Estate which I Shall not by these Presents dispose of, and my Will is that my sd Son Ichabod Shall pay all ye debts that I owe & all ye Legacies given away in this my last Will & Testament

7. I give unto my daughter Deborah Wade one feather Bed with all ye furniture belonging to it & my Loome to weave with together with all ye tackling that doth belong unto it. I give also her one Cow a brass Kettle, an Iron Pott & an Iron Kettle an Earthen Bason a Warming Pan, a Smoothing Iron & a Chafing dish together with one full halfe of all ye use of ye moveable goods within ye House & a Priviledge of Injoying ye East End of my now dwelling House till She Shall marry and my Will further is that beside this my son Ichabod Shall pay her ten Pounds in good pay Equivalent to money.

8. I give unto my Son Moses Wade his Heirs & assignes that tract or Parcell of Land that lyeth on ye Westerly side of ye Road by my House together with one third Part of all my Right in ye West Cedar Swamp, and do hereby utterly Revoke & disanull other former Wills & do declare This & no other to be my last Will & Testament. In Witness & Confirmation hereof I have Sett to my Hand & Put to my Seal ye Day & year first above written

Signed Sealed Published Pronounced

& declared by ye sd Thomas Wade to be

His last Will & Testament In Presence

of us Subscribers                                                                                                                  Thomas Wade                   (seal)

Benjamin Allen

Robert Luscombe

Josiah Edson tertius

 

Proved by Benjamin Allen and Robert Luscombe on 23 Nov. 1726, and by Josiah Edson on 14 Mar. 1726/27. Administration granted to Ichabod Wade, the Executor named, and one of the sons of Thomas Wade, on 24 Apr. 1727.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Thomas Wade, of Bridgewater, who deceased on 29 Sept. 1726, was appraised by John Field, John Ames, and Thomas Ames on 11 Jan. 1726/7, not totaled, and no real estate listed. Ichabod Wade, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 9 Mar. 1726/27.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 5, p. 272-274, from FHL microfilm #0550511.

 

 

Will of Thomas Wade of East Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1832) *

I Thomas Wade of East Bridgewater in the County of Plymouth Yeoman being weak in body but sound in mind and Memory – Considering the Uncertainty of life and the Certainty of death, do this twenty first day of March in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred & thirty two make & ordain this my last will and Testament, Viz

First I recommend my soul to God who gave it my Body to the Earth to be buried in a decent manner by my Executor hereafter named and as to my worldly estate I dispose of it in manner following Viz –

1st. – I give to my wife all my household furniture to her disposal–

2d. I give to my son Lewis all the rest of my estate provided he shall live to the age of twenty one years, and that he shall support my son Charles out of the same, & providing my son Lewis should not live to the age of twenty one years, then it is my will that the property–shall go to my daughter Betsy Briggs & for her to support my son Charles.

And I hereby constitute and appoint Simeon Curtis Jun sole Executor to this my last will & Testament & also Guardian to my two Boys Lewis & Charles.      In witness whereof I hereunto set my hand and seal the day & year above written.

                                                                                                                                                Thomas Wade                   (seal)

Signed, sealed, published, and declared by the Testator to be his last will and Testament in presence of us who at his request signed our names as witnesses

                                Dean Latham

                                Ichabod Keith

                                Lot Whitmarsh

 

Presented for probate on 3 Apr. 1832, and proved by Ichabod Keith and Lot Whitmarsh, two of the witnesses. Letters of administration on the estate of Thomas Wade, late of East Bridgewater, Labourer, were granted to Simeon Curtis Jun. of East Bridgewater, yeoman.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 72, p. 126-127, from FHL microfilm #0555261.

 

 

Will of Peleg Wadsworth of Duxbury, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1799) *

In the name of God Amen. I Peleg Wadsworth of Duxbury in the County of Plymouth & Comonwealth of Massachusetts, yeoman being in the possession of my reason & understanding, but knowing I must soon be called off this stage of life, do make & ordain the following to be my last will & testament, that is to say: First, I recommend my body to the dust, to be buried in a decent christian manner, and my spirit into the hands of a merciful God, in hopes of a future resurrection to eternal life. and with regard to the property or estate of which I am possessed, I give and dispose of the same, in manner following—vizt—

First—I Give and bequeath unto my eldest son Cephas Wadsworth Sixty eight dollars in money; and also, one third part of my indoor moveables: the Bed & Bedding on which I commonly sleep shall be taken into the said third part

Also—I Give & bequeath to Silvanus Smith, the son of my daughter Lucia Smith, deceased, Four dollars in money with what his mother received from me at the time of her marriage

Also—I Give and bequeath unto my Son, Uriah Wadsworth one Hundred & Fifty Dollars in money

Also—I Give unto my Son Peleg Wadsworth, Four Dollars in money, together with what he formerly received from me, to defray the expences of his education—

Also—I Give & bequeath unto my daughter Welthea, the wife of Judah Alden, Four Dollars in money, together with what she received from me at the time of her marriage

Also—I Give and bequeath unto my two Sons, Ira Wadsworth and Dura Wadsworth, to be equally divided betwixt them, all my Real & Personal Estate, not above disposed off, consisting of the lands & personal estate Following—vizt—all my homestead Farm on which I now dwell, with the two dwelling houses, Barns, Wharf, Store House & other buildings standing thereon, and all the appurtenances thereunto belonging.—Also, one Lot of wood land, being the 58th lot in the First division of Duxbury lands, Also one piece or parcell of salt marsh, lying at a place, called the high pines—also, the fourth share in the first great lot in Pembroke great cedar swamp, so called, and also, my Pew in the meeting house—my boat or sloop called the Gabriel, all my live stock, farming tools, and all my other estate, both real & personal, wheresoever it may be found; all which said real & personal estate (excepting what I have otherwise above disposed of) I Give to my said two sons, Ira & Dura, equally, they paying out of the estate which I have so given them, all my debts & charges, with all the legacies given & bequeathed in this my last will & testament. And I do furthermore constitute and appoint my said two sons, Ira & Dura, the joint Executors of this my last will & testament—In witness of all which, I have hereunto Set my and & Seal, this third day of June, in the year of our Lord one thousand, seven hundred & ninety nine—1799—

Signed Sealed & Declared, to be his                                                                                                Peleg Wadsworth            (seal)

last will & testament in presence of

us, who, at ye request of the testator &

in presence of each other, have sub-

scribed our names, as witnesses

                Geo. Partridge

                Samuel Chandler

                Thomas Chandler junr

 

Presented for probate on 5 Aug. 1799 by Ira Wadsworth and Dura Wadsworth, the Executors therein named, and proved by Saml Chandler and Thos Chandler Junr, two of the witnesses.

Samuel Chandler, Gentleman, and Thos Chandler junr, yeoman, were sureties on the bond of Ira Wadsworth and Dura Wadsworth, Executors.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 37, p. 76-78, from FHL microfilm #0550719.

 

 

Will of Ephraim Ward of Lakeville, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1853) *

I Ephraim Ward of Middleborough formerly, now of Lakeville in the County of Plymouth and Commonwealth of Massachusetts, being of sound disposing mind, and memory, do make and publish this my last Will and Testament in manner following, that is to say;

First: After the paying of all my lawful debts, I give and bequeath all my Estate, Real and Personal, to the following persons, ~ First, I give and bequeath an equal undivided fifth part of my Estate, Real and Personal to my Sons Ephraim Ward Junior and George Ward, to be held in trust for the benefit of my Eldest Son Eliab Ward with power to appoint their successors;

Second, I give and bequeath an equal undivided fifth part of my Estate, Real and Personal, to my Daughter Priscilla W. Stetson, wife of Peleg H. Stetson and in case my said Daughter should die before me, I give and bequeath the aforesaid fifth part of my Estate to her Heirs at Law.

Third. I give and bequeath an equal and undivided fifth part of my estate to my Son Ephraim Ward Junior and in case my said Son Ephraim should die before me, I give and bequeath the aforesaid fifth part of my Estate to his Heirs at Law.

Fourth. I give and bequeath to my Sons Ephraim Ward Jr. and George Ward, an equal undivided fifth part of my Estate, Real and Personal, to be held in trust for the benefit of my Grand daughter Mary W. Holmes, during her minority, or until my said Grand daughter shall marry, if such mariage takes place before the age of Twenty one years, at the age of Twenty One, or at the time of her Mariage previous to that age, it is my will that said trust shall cease, and my said Grand daughter shall come into possession of her property, It is further my Will that if my said Grand daughter should die without any Child before the age of Twenty one, that the aforesaid trust should cease at once, and the aforenamed fifth part of my Estate should go to my Children – Eliab, Priscilla, Ephraim and George, or to their Heirs It is further my Will that the aforenamed trustees have power to appoint their successors.

Fifth. I give and bequeath an equal undivided fifth part of my Estate, Real and Personal to my Son George Ward and in case my said Son George, should die before me, I give and bequeath the aforesaid fifth part of my Estate to his Heirs at Law.

Second. I hereby Constitute and appoint my Sons Ephraim Ward Junior and George Ward, the executors of this my last Will and Testament, with power to appoint their successors.

                In testimony whereof I the said Ephraim Ward have hereunto set my hand and seal this Eighth day of September in the Year of our LORD One thousand Eight hundred and Fifty three.

                                                                                                                                                Ephraim Ward                                  (seal)

Signed, Sealed, published and declared in presence of us, by the said Ephraim Ward, as and for his last Will and Testament, and at his request we have hereunto subscribed our Names as Witnesses, the day and Year above Written.

                                                                                                                                                Levi Haskins

                                                                                                                                                Levi A. Haskins

                                                                                                                                                Mary S. Haskins

 

Presented for probate on the first Tuesday of July 1856, by Ephraim and George Ward, the Executors therein named, and proved by Levi Haskins, Levi A. Haskins and Mary S. Haskins, the witnesses whose names are subscribed thereto. Letters Testamentary were granted to Ephraim and George Ward, the Executors therein named.

 

Ephraim Ward and George Ward, of Lakeville, were appointed Executors of the last Will and Testament of Ephraim Ward Senr., late of Lakeville, Gentleman, on 1 July 1856, with Levi Haskins and Levi H. Haskins, both of Lakeville, as sureties. Philander Leach, of Bridgewater, Thomas Southworth, of Carver, and Levi Haskins, of Lakeville, were appointed to appraise the estate of Ephraim Ward Senr, late of Lakeville, on 1 July 1856.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Ephraim Ward, late of Lakeville, was presented on the first Tuesday of Oct. 1856, his real estate totaled $7846, and his personal estate was valued at $122.17.

 

Ephraim Ward, of Chicago, in the State of Illinois, petitioned for a division of the Real Estate of Ephraim Ward, late of Lakeville, on 6 Oct. 1857, by his attorney, Wm H. Wood, with the consent of Peleg H. Stetson, Priscilla W. Stetson, and Mary W. Holmes, by her guardian Alexander Holmes. Stillman Benson, of Middleborough, Philander Leach, of Bridgewater, and Thomas Southworth, of Carver, were appointed to divide the real estate of Ephraim Ward, late of Lakeville, among his devizees, on 10 Nov. 1857, namely Ephraim Ward, of Chicago, in trust for Eliab Ward, of Middleborough, Ephraim Ward, for himself, Ephraim Ward in trust for Mary Ward Holmes, and Mrs. Priscilla Stetson, the wife of Peleg H. Stetson of Lakeville, the division approved in May 1858.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 98, pp. 273-275, 387-388, from FHL microfilm #0555643, Vol. 2H, p. 518, and Vol. 100, p. 222-230.

 

 

Will of Abigail Warren of Plymouth, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1831) *

In the name of God, in whom I have always trusted thankful for his various and many blessings thro’ a long life & confiding in his final mercy for his Creauture & a Sinner  I, Abigail Warren of Plymouth in the County of Plymouth dispose of my Earthly Estate as follows

Firstly. All my Real Estate consisting of half a house & its lot of Meadow on Eelriver & a wood lot: The word “half” being now interlined I give to Thomas Morton & Josiah Morton son of the late Thomas Morton children of my sister Ruth in equal parts.

Secondly I give to my two Sisters in equal parts Susannah Harlow & Ruth Morton all my wearing Clothes

Thirdly to Mary Wood of Middleborough my niece & Ruth Burgess daughter of Chandler Burgess of Plymouth I give my two beds to be divided as they may agree —

I hereby appoint Josiah Morton Jun. my nephew to be executor of this my will.

        If I have any other property beside that herein named I give it in equal shares to the above named Thomas & Josiah my nephews; & if my personal Estate should fail to pay my debts the deficiency shall be made up from my Real Estate in proportion as it shall be owned by the persons to whom it is given

In testimony of all which I declare this Instrument to he my Will this twenty seventh day of July in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred & thirty one

                                                                                                                                                               her

                                                                                                                                                Abigail  X  Warren              (seal)

                                                                                                                                                               mark

Signed, sealed & declared to be her will in presence of us.

        Z. Bartlett

        Lemuel Leach

        Jane Burgess

 

The Will of Abigail Warren, late of Plymouth, Single woman, was presented for probate on 3 Dec. 1832, and was proved by Z. Bartlett, Lemuel Leach, and Jane Burgess, the witnesses.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 72, p. 538-539, from FHL microfilm #0555261.

 

 

Will of Anna Warren of Middleborough, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1769) *

                                                In the Name of God, Amen.

The twenty first day of August 1769. I Anna Warren of Middleborough in the county of Plymouth in New England widdow, being very sick and weak in body, but of perfect mind and memory, thanks be given unto God, therefore calling unto mind the mortality of my body, and knowing that it is appointed for all men once to die, do make and ordain this my last will and testament, that is to say. ~

Principally and first of all I give and recomend my soul into the hands of God that gave it, and my body I recomend to the earth, to be buried in decent, christian burial, at the discretion of my executor nothing doubting but at the General Resurrection I shall receive the same again by the mighty power of God, and touching such worldly estate wherewith it hath pleased God to bless me in this life, I give demise and dispose of the same in the following manner and form.

First, I give and bequeath to Silva Reed daughter to Peter Reed deced one half my wearing apparel, and also the bed whereon I now Lie, with the furniture thereto belonging, containing three pair of linnen or cotton and linnen-sheets, two pair of Flannel sheets, with other covering thereunto belonging, with the bedstead & cord; and also the flock-bed bedstead, and all furniture thereto belonging. and also my brass-kettle, looking-glass, & one half my pewter; and also one good cow, and hay to winter her the winter following. and also ten dollars to be paid her by my executor, within one year after my decease, and also my looms and tackling. ~

I do also give and bequeath to my sister Martha Inglee and her daughters one half my wearing apparel, and also two dollars to be paid to my said sister, and two to each of her daughters by my said executor, within one year after my decease, and also that my executor shall pay to my sister’s youngest daughter Waitstill, one good pewter platter & bason within one year after my decease. –

I do also give to Jonathan Reed son to my brother William Reed one pair of year &’vantage steers, and hay to winter them, to be delivered to him soon after my decease by my executor.

I do also give to William Reed grandson to my brother William Reed deced, one half the debt that is due on a note of hand from Deacon Edward Richmond of Taunton to be paid to him by my executor, within one year after my decease.

I do also give to Timothy Inglee a note that I have upon Lieut. Philip Leonard, to be delivered to him soon after my decease by my executor. ~

I do give to Elisha Tinkham, whom I likewise constitute, make & ordain my sole executor of this my last will & testament, one eighteen acre Lot of Land in Middleboro’, it being the fiftysixth lot in the Little Lorman’s purchase, and in the third division, and if he should die without child or children, it is to return to the abovesaid William Reed. –  I do also give to the said Elisha Tinkham my other bed & beding, and all my notes of hand not here disposed of, with all other my estate not here disposed of to his own use freely to possess & enjoy forever.~

   And I do hereby utterly disallow, revoke & disanul all and every other former testaments, wills, legacies, bequests, & executors by me in any ways before named, willed, & bequeathed, ratifying & confirming this & no other, to be my Last will & testament. In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal the day & year above written.

                                                                                                                                                        her

Signed, sealed, published, pronounced & declared by the sd.                                     Anna  O  Warren                 (seal)

Anna Warren as her Last will & testament, in presence of us,                                          mark

Gershom Richmond, Eleazar Richmond, Benja. White.

 

Presented for probate on 5 Feb. 1770 by Elisha Tinkham, the Executor therein named, and proved by Gershom Richmond and Eleazer Richmond, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Elisha Tinkham, the Executor.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 20, p. 321-322, from FHL microfilm #0550711.

 

 

Will of Benjamin Warren of Plymouth, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1745) *

In the Name of God Amen Benjamin Warren of the Town and County of Plimouth in New England Yeoman Labouring under the Infirmitys of old age but of sound & Disposeing Memory, thanks be Given unto allmighty God for the Same, But Calling to Mind the Mortallity of my body and knowing that it is appointed for all men Once to die, Do make and ordain this my last will and Testament— Imprimis I will and bequeath my Soul unto God who Gave it me and my Body to the Dust to be decently Buried at the Discretion of my Executor hereafter Named, Nothing Doubting but at the Generall Resurrection I Shall receive the same again by the Mighty power of God and as touching such worldly Estate wherewith it hath pleased God to Bless me in this life I Dispose in the following Manner—

Item I Will and Bequeath unto my loving wife Esther Warren the improvement of One third of my whole Estate both Real and Personal that I have in the Township of Plimouth after my Just debts & funeral Charges are paid out of my Moveable Estate all which improvement of my Estate I do give unto my Wellbeloved wife so long as She Shall remain my widdow, But in Case She Marry again, Then my will is that She shall have my Best Bed & furniture belonging thereunto and the sum of forty pounds in Moveables Valued equal to bills of Credit of the old tenour to be her own forever.

Item. I Will and bequeath unto my loving son Nathaniel Warren all that My Farm wheron I now dwell with the Dwelling House and Out Housing Standing theron all the land that is adjoyning Together with all the Salt Meadow on both sides of the Eell River and allso all my land lying on Saltmash plain so Called on the northerly side of Ponds way all which said Land Meadow and houseing above described I give unto my said son Nathaniel Warren and unto his heirs and assigns forever he paying to three of his Sisters Each of them Thirty pounds old tenour, to wit To Priscilla Warren Thirty pounds and Patience Warren Thirty pounds and Mercy Warren thirty pounds all in bills of the old tenour to be paid within one year after my Decease.—

Item. I will and bequeath unto my Grandson Benjamin Warren the Only Surviveing Son of Benjamin Warren deceas’d all that my fourteen Acres of land lying at a place Called Shingle Brook Swamp in the Township of Plimouth and is adjoyning unto the Land of Ebenezer Holmes and Joseph Warren. I do allso Give unto my said Grandson One Sixth part of my Moveable Estate after my Just Debts and funeral Charges are paid out all which land and Moveable Estate I do Give unto my sd. Grandson and to his heirs and Assigns forever~~

Item. My Will is that all the residue of my Estate both Real & personal lying within the Township of Plimouth that I have not Given away In this present Will Shall be Equally divided to and amongst my five daughters Namely Abigail the widdow of Joseph Rider deceasd and Hannah the wife of Eleazer Faunce Priscilla Patience and Mercy all which the Residue of my Estate I Give unto my said five Daughters and unto their Heirs and Assigns forever.

Lastly. I Nominate and appoint my loving son Nathaniel Warren to be the Sole Executor of this my last will and Testament hereby Revokeing all other and former wills Either writin or Verbal by Me heretofore made or done or orderd to be done hereby Ratyfieing this my last Will & Testament to remain firm and Inviolable. In Witness wherof I the above named Benjamin Warren have hereunto Set my hand & Seal this Eighth day of May Annoq Dom. 1745—

Signed Sealed Pronounced and Declared

By the said Benja Warren to be his

last will & Testament In presence of us

Thomas Faunce junr.                                                                                                          Benjamin Warren                            (seal)

James Faunce

Josiah Morton

 

Probated on 8 July 1746, and proved by Thomas Faunce, James Faunce and Josiah Morton. Letters of Administration were granted to Nathaniel Warren of Plimouth, Yeoman, the Executor, on 8 July 1746.

 

The inventory of the estate of Benjamin Warren, appraised by James Warren, Solomon Silvester, and Consider Howland, taken in Aug. 1746, totaled £3231, including his homestead valued at £1560, his swamp and meadow near Joseph Warrens at £260, his meadow on the west side of the river at £240, a 30 acre wood lot at £240, other woodland at £200, livestock at £216, his part in the mill at £125, an Indian boy valued at £50, cedar swamp at £40, etc.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 10, p. 301-305, from FHL microfilm #0551535.

 

 

Will of Ebenezer Warren of Andes, Delaware County, New York (1894) *

        The Last Will and Testament of Ebenezer Warren of the Town of Andes in the County of Delaware and State of New York

                I Ebenezer Warren being sixty seven years of age and being of sound mind and memory do make this my last Will as follows –

First

I direct that my funeral charges, expenses of administering my Estate and my debts be paid out of my personal Estate; and if my personal Estate be insufficient for those purposes, I expressly charge the payment thereof, or of any deficiency upon the real Estate whereof I may die seized, and for that purpose, or for the payment of the legacies hereinafter bequeathed, I authorize my executors hereinafter named, to sell at public or private sale, the whole or such part of my real Estate, as may be sufficient for those purposes

Second

  I do give and devise to my Daughter Sofrona C. Weare (Wife of Austin Weare) now of Corning N.Y. the one hundred dollar note I now hold and own against her husband Austin Weare – together with any and all money either principal or interest due thereon – at the time of my death – or that shall thereafter accrue – to have and to hold to herself her heirs and assigns forever –

Third

  I do give and devise to my Son Abram A. Warren now residing at Tioga Tioga County Pennsylvania the sum of One hundred dollars, to have and to hold to himself & his heirs for ever.

Fourth

  I do give and devise to my son Frank K. Warren now residing at Lawrenceville Tioga County Pennsylvania the sum of One hundred dollars, to have and to hold to himself and his heirs forever –

Fifth

  I do give and bequeath to my Daughter Jennie E. Warren now residing at Nelson Tioga County Pennsylvania the sum of One hundred dollars to have and to hold to her heirs & self forever –

Sixth

  I do give and bequeath to my Daughter Mary Horton (Wife of Isaac Horton) now residing at Lawrenceville Tioga County Pennsylvania – the sum of one hundred dollars to have and to hold to herself and her heirs forever –

Seventh

  I do give and bequeath all of the rest residue and remainder of any & all real estate and personal property that I may die seized or possessed of to my wife Malvina A. Warren – to have & to hold to herself & her heirs, forever – upon condition however that in the event that I should survive her – then the remainder herein devised to her shall be equally divided between my children – or their heirs share and share alike

Lastly

  I do hereby constitute and appoint my Wife Malvina A. Warren and my son Abram A. Warren Executors of this my last Will and Testament hereby revoking all former Wills by me made

In witness Whereof I have hereunto subscribed my name this 16th day of March in the year of our Lord One thousand Eight hundred and ninety four –

                                                                                                                                                Ebenezer Warren                             (seal)

   The foregoing instrument was at the date thereof subscribed by the said Ebenezer Warren in our presence and he at the same time declared the same to be his last Will and testament, and requested us to sign our names as Witnesses, which we do in his presence & in the presence of each other

        Edward M Norton  residing at Andes N.Y.

Barna Johnson   residing at Andes N.Y.

 

In the matter of the Last Will and Testament

of Ebenezer Warren late of the town of Andes,

deceased.

                I, Abram A. Warren of Tioga Tioga County Pennsylvania, one of the Executors named and appointed in and by the Last Will and Testament of Ebenezer Warren late of the Town of Andes in the county of Delaware, deceased, do hereby renounce the said appointment and all right and claim to letters testamentary on the said Last Will and Testament or to act as Executor thereof.

        Dated January 28th 1895

                                                                                                                                                Abram A. Warren

 

Presented for probate by Barna Johnson, Attorney for the Executrix named in the Last Will and Testament of Ebenezer Warren, late of the Town of Andes, on 18 Feb. 1895.

 

Letters Testamentary were granted to Malvina A. Warren, the Executrix, on 18 Feb. 1895

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Delaware County Probate Wills Vol. O, p. 263-265, from FHL microfilm #0833515, and Letters Testamentary Vol. I, p. 591.

 

 

Will of James Warren Esq., of Plymouth, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1712) *

I James Warren of the Town and County of Plymouth being now under Decays of Body but through the mercy and Goodness of God of Disposeing mind and memory yet Calling to mind the uncertainty of this Transitory Life and knowing the mortality of my Body and that it is uncertain how soon it shall Please God to Call me hence by Death, I am therefore Desirous according to my Duty to Sett things In order before I go hence and do make this my Last Will and Testament in manner and form following. That is to Say principally and first of all I Give & Recomend my Soul into the hands of God that gave it me hoping and Expecting the Pardon of all my Sins in & through the Death and Merits of Jesus Christ my only Lord and Saviour, And my Body I Recomend unto the Earth to be Decently buried att the Discretion of my Executrix, hereafter named, and Touching my worldly Estate wherewith it hath Pleased God to Bless me in this Life I Give Demise and Dispose of the Same In the following form and manner…

Imprimis. My Will is that all my Debts in Right and Consience to any Persons Due Shall be first paid and discharged out of my Estate (together with my funeral Charges) by Executrix hereafter named…

Item. I Give and Bequeath unto James Warren my only Son and to the heirs of his Body Lawfully begotten and to their heirs and assigns forever all my uplands Swompy Ground marsh and meadow land together with all the housing thereon Standing, all Scituate lying & being on the most Easterly Side of the Eel River So Called in the Township of Plymouth aforesaid, and also three Shares in the Cedar Swomp Called the South meadow Cedar Swomp in Plymouth aforesd. and is one half of ye. thirteenth Lott as it is laid out and divided (one of which Share is his own already) all which I give to him my sd. Son upon Conditions that he do after he shall arrive to one and twenty years of age Give and firmly make over unto my Daughter Sarah his Sister his Sixth part of the wood Lott which fell to him upon the Settlement of the Estate of his uncle Nathaniel Warren Deceased as also If he do Signe to and on his part do Confirm the Settlement of his sd. uncles Estate (which I Consented to on his behalf) And my will is that my sd. Son shall not enter upon and possess any of the before given Estate untill the youngest of my Daughters then Sirviving Shall arrive to the age of Sixteen years and that then Sarah my Loving wife Shall have and receive the one third part of the Proffits and Incomes of all for and during the time that She Shall Continue my widdow: And I also Give and Bequeath unto him my sd. Son my Gun Sword all my Cloathes with all my husbandry Tools and utensils And my Will is that If my sd. Son die without Issue Lawfully begotten of his Body that then all the before given Lands and other the Real Estate before mentioned shall be equally divided to and amongst all my Daughters then Sirviving, only If any or either of them shall then be Deceased & leave Issue Such Children to have that part that would have Come to their mother If then living.  Item. My Will is that the sd. Sarah my Loving Wife Shall enjoy possess & improve all my Estate both Real & personal for her own use Comfort & Support and for bringing up of my Children untill ye. youngest of my Daughters then Sirviving shall arrive to the age of Eighteen years aforesd.  Item. I Give & Bequeath unto each & every one of my Daughters fifty Pounds apiece to be paid to them Respectively as they Come to the age of Eighteen years or at the time of mariage which shall first happen, and to be paid by my sd. wife out of my Estate, And I Do hereby Give full Power unto the sd. Sarah my Loving wife to make Sale of any of my housing Wharfe Swomps Lands or other Estate which is not before given to my sd. Son as she shall see Cause and the produce thereof to use & Improve for her own use and for Bringing up of my sd. Children, and for paying the Legacies Given them as aforesd. Item: My Will is that If my sd. wife Shall marry again after my Death: That She shall have one hundred Pounds out of my Estate, and be further allowed for what is necessary for bringing up of the youngest of my Children who shall then be minors - - -

Item: My Will is that att and after the Death or marriage of the sd. Sarah My Wife which shall first happen that then all the Remainder of my Estate both Real & personall excepting what is before given to my Sd. Son, and also excepting the hundred Pounds given to my sd. wife If She marry again, It Shall be equally divided to and amongst all my Daughters then Sirviving, only the Sirviving Children of any of them to have their Deceased mothers part If any of them Shall be deceased before Such Division be made, only my will is that each of them have fifty Pounds as before expressed before the Latter Division be made: and that the sixth part of the wood Lott to be made over by my sd. Son unto my sd. Daughter Sarah Shall be valued att twenty Pounds in part of the Last Division to be Sett out to her. Finally I do ordain Constitute & appoint the sd. Sarah Warren my Loving Wife to be sole Executrix to this my Last Will & Testament hereby revoking & disanulling all former will and wills by word or writing heretofore made by me, In Testimony Whereof I have hereunto Sett my hand and Seale this twenty Eighth day of January Anno Domini 1711/12//

Signed Sealed & Declared to be

his Last Will & Testament In                                                                                           James Warren                   (seal)

presence of us . .

Nathaniel Thomas Junr.

Isaac Lothrop

Joseph Lothrop

John Watson

 

Probated on 23 June 1715, and proved by Nathaniel Thomas Junr. Esqr., Mr. Isaac Lothrop, and Mr. John Watson. Letters of Administration were granted to Mrs Sarah Warren, Relict Widdow of the deceased and Sole Executrix, on 23 June 1715.

 

The Inventory of the Estate both Real and Personal of James Warren Esqr. late of the Town & County of Plymouth, dated 20 July 1715 and appraised by William Basset and Isaac Lothrop was not totaled but substantial, and included bills of credit, cash and bonds valued at £1018.11, the farm land meadow and housing valued at £2500, a negro man & negro woman, one English and two Indian Servants, valued at £150.00, and sheep, neat cattle, horses and swine valued at £213.00. Mrs. Sarah Warren, Relict Widdow of James Warren Esqr., and Executrix, gave her oath to the inventory on 24 Sept. 1715.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 3, p. 360-363, from FHL microfilm #0550509.

 

 

Will of James Warren of Plymouth, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1757) *

                In the Name of God Amen,

I James Warren of Plimouth in the County of Plimouth Esqr. Considering my own Frailty & Mortality, and that it is appointed to dye, and not knowing how soon may Days on Earth may be numbered & Finished Doe make my Last Will and Testament in maner following First of all I humbly Recommend my Soul to God that Gave it Humbly Hoping for acceptance with him and Eternall Happiness thro’ the Merritts and mediation of Jesus Christ,– the Savour of man kinde, and my Body to the earth to be Buried therein in a decent Christain manner at the discretion of My Execr, hereafter named, I order my said Executor out of my said Estate, to pay all my Just debts and Funerall charges & Such Legacies as I shall Herein Bequeath in Convenient time after my decease

  I Give to my son James Warren Junr. Esqr. all the Real Estate which my Hond. Father in his will gave to me lying in Plimouth aforesaid, a Sixty acre Lott of Wood-land– Adjoyning to my Farm at the Ele river; afifteen acre Lott of Wood land Adjoyning to sd. Sixty Acres, and One Quarter part of the Island lying in half way Pond all in Plimouth aforesaid, Togather with One share in the thirteenth Great Lott in South meadow Cedarswamp in Plimton in the County of Plimouth, and all my Interest in Silvester’s Town so called, To Have & To Hold all and Singular the premisses aforesd. with the appurtenances to him the said James Warren Junr. and his Heirs and assigns forever  I Likewise Give my said son & his Heirs & Assigns forever One Half of a Breading Mair on my Farm at sd. Eelriver and my Husbandry Tools and utensills there used, and my best Gun and Sword none of which Shall be Subjected to the payment of my Debts Legacies and Funerall charges

   I Give to my Daughter Ann Warren and her Heirs & assigns forever the sum of One Hundred and Eighty seven pounds lawfull money of the province of the Massachusetts bay to be paid to her out of my estate within one year after my decease, to make her equall with her Sister Sarah Sever Respecting what I gave her upon her Marriage.

   All the Rest and residue of my Estate both real & personall of what name or nature soever, whersoever the same is or may be found, I give the one moiety thereof to my said Daughter Anne and her Heirs and Assigns forever, and the other Moiety thereof I Give to my said Daughter Sarah Sever and her Heirs & Assigns forever. Finally I doe hereby revoak any Former Will and Constitute and appoint my said son James Warren Junr Executor of this my Will, In Witness whereof I have hereunto Sett My Hand and seal the Thirtyfirst Day of May AD1757.

Signed Sealed Published & declared

by said Testator to be his Testament                                                                               James Warren                                   (seal)

                In presence of

Consider Howland

Jas. Hovey

John Cobb

 

Presented for probate on 19 July 1757 by the Executor therein named, and proved by Consider Howland, James Hovey and John Cobb, the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to James Warren of Plimouth, Esqr., the Executor, on 19 July 1757.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of James Warren, late of Plymouth Esqr., was appraised by Josiah Morton, James Hovey, and Ebenezer Spooner on 3 Sept. 1757, and totaled £3314.1.8, including his real estate, which totaled £3077.13.4. James Warren Esqr., the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 28 July 1759.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 14, p. 298-300, from FHL microfilm #0551542, and Vol. 15, p. 275-276.

 

 

Will of James Warren of Plymouth, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1792) *

        In the Name of God amen, I James Warren of Plymouth in the County of Plymouth Esqr. being sensible of my Mortality & of the many advantages my Family may derive from my making Disposition of the Estate with which Providence has blessed me, do make this my last will & Testament concerning the real and personal Estate whereof I am any way seized & possessed —

        Imprimis my Will is that my Just debts & funeral Charges be paid out of my Real Estate by my Executrix hereafter named, & she is hereby impowered to sell & dispose of so much of my real Estate as may be sufficient for those purposes, meaning & it is my Will that lawful Interest as a Debt be allowed & paid to my Son James Warren on the Monies at sundry times received for him & standing on my Book as Balances due to him, beginning the Estimate of said Interest from the first day of January A.D. 1791 ~

        Secondly. I give & bequeath to my dearly beloved Wife Mercy Warren all my personal Estate of every sort & kind including debts due to me on Book, Mortgages, Bonds or Notes of hand, or by Bills of Exchange or any other way – to be to her own use, & at her disposal – I also give to my beloved Wife aforesaid the whole & sole use & Improvement of the Remainder of all my Real Estate, during her natural Life. & my Mind & Will is that after the decease of my said Wife, the said Remainder of my Real Estate be divided among my three Sons James Warren, Henry Warren & George Warren in Manner following viz – in the first place that there be assigned & set off by the appraisement of three judicious Men, by them, or the major part of them chosen, to the amount of one hundred & seventy five Pounds to each of my Sons Henry & George, in order to make an Equality among my three sons, in point of the Expences & advantages of their Education &c It is however to be understood that seventy five Pounds already advanced to my Son George & charged on my Book, is to be considered as part of the said Sum of one hundred & seventy five Pounds given him as above after which it is my Will that the residue of my Real Estate be in the same Manner equally divided among my three Sons James, Henry & George aforesaid —

        Lastly I nominate & appoint my beloved Wife Mercy Warren sole Executrix of this my last will & Testament, hereby revoking all other & former Wills & Testaments by me made ratifying this & no other to be my last Will & Testament – In Witness whereof I sign seal pronounce & declare this to be my last Will & Testament this eighth day of June Anno Domini 1792. ~

   In presence of

        Andrew Croswell

        Wm H. Jackson                                                                                                            James Warren                                   (seal)

        Lemuel Drew

 

Presented for probate on 28 Dec. 1808 by Mercy Warren, the Executrix therein named, and proved by Lemuel Drew, one of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Mercy Warren, the before named Executrix.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

Henry Warren, of Plymouth, Esqr., was granted Administration de bonis non with the Will annexed of the estate of James Warren, late of Plymouth, Esqr., on 11 Nov. 1814, the sole Executrix Mercy Warren having since deceased without completing her Executorship, with James Warren and Nathan Hayward Esqrs. as sureties.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 42, p. 419-420, from FHL microfilm #0550902, and Vol. 46, p. 432.

 

 

Will of John Warren of Middleborough, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1768) *

                                                In the Name of God, Amen,

I John Warren of Middleborough in the county of Plymouth in New England yeoman, this twenty first day of January anno Domini 1768 being of sound mind, & disposing memory, thanks be to God therefor, calling to mind the mortality of my body do make & ordain this to be my last will & testament, revoking all other wills by me made heretofore. That is to say, first of all I give & recomend my imortal soul to
God, hoping thro’ Jesus Christ alone he will receive my imortal spirit, and my body I comit to the dust, to be buried at the discretion of my executor hereafter named trusting that Jesus Christ will raise it up at the last day, & reunite the same, & receive it unto imortal glory. and as touching that worldly estate which God has blessed me with, I give and dispose of, as follows. ~

Imprs. I give & bequeath unto my wel-beloved wife Ann Warren the one third part of all my moveable estate within doors & without to be her own forever, and the improvement of all my real estate, during her being & remaining my widdow, ordering all my just debts to be paid, as is hereafter more fully expressed. ~

Item, I give & bequeath unto my son James Warren, six pounds, thirteen shillings & eight pence, to be paid him in moveable estate by my grandson Elisha Tinkham in three years after my decease. ~

Item, I give unto my two sons Nathaniel Warren, & Nehemiah Warren all my wearing apparel, to be equally divided between them, & delivered them upon sight, after my decease, and also the sum of thirteen pounds, six shillings & eight pence to be equally divided, viz six pounds, thirteen shillings & four pence to Nathaniel, & six pounds, thirteen shillings, & four pence to Nehemiah, to be paid them by my grandson Elisha Tinkham aforesaid, in moveable estate, in three years after my decease. ~

Item, I give & bequeath unto the three children of John Warren decd; namely Richard Warren, & John Warren, & Naomi Warren, eight pounds lawful money, to be equally divided between them, & paid them by my grandson Elisha Tinkham, in moveable estate, when they arrive to twenty one years old. ~

        Item, I give & bequeath to my two daughters namely to Naomi Tinkham, wife of Jeremiah Tinkham of Middleboro’ aforesd. & ann Dickerson wife of Joseph Dickerson, the sum of six pounds, thirteen shillings & four pence to each of them, that is to say to Naomi the sum of six pounds, thirteen shillings & four pence, & to Ann the sum of six pounds, thirteen shillings & four pence to be paid them by my aforesaid grand-son Elisha in moveable estate in three years after my decease.

        Item. I give & bequeath unto my aforesaid grand-son Elisha Tinkham all my real & moveable estate, not heretofore given away, that is to say my dwelling house & land whereon I now dwell, & all my woodland & meadows & fences on the same together with all my live stock, & other moveable estate not before given away, he paying the aforesaid legacies, & my just debts & funeral charges out of the same. – My will is that the aforesd. legacies should be given in manner & form as aforesd. to them & their heirs forever, Furthermore, my will is, & I do hereby appoint my aforesd. grandson Elisha Tinkham to be the sole executor of this my last will & testament, ratifying & confirming this to be my last will & testament. In witness whereof I the sd. John Warren have hereunto set my hand & seal the day & year first above mention or written. ~

Signed, seald., published, & pronounced, by the sd. John Warren to be his last

Will & testament in the presence of us the subscribers. –                                           John Warren                                     (seal)

Gershom Richmond, Eleazar Richmond, Samuel Thacher

 

Presented for probate on 4 Apr. 1768 by Elisha Tinkham, the Executor therein named, and proved by Gershom Richmond and Eleazar Richmond, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Elisha Tinkham, the Executor, with Gershom Richmond, blacksmith, and Eleazar Richmond, yeoman, all of Middleborough, as sureties.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 20, p. 59-60, from FHL microfilm #0550711.

 

 

Will of Joseph Warren of Plymouth, Colony of New Plymouth (1689) *

To all People to whome these presents shall Come etc: Know ye that I Joseph Warren Senr of the Town of Plimouth in the County of New Plimouth in New England being weak of body through age & sickness but of perfect and disposing memory & sound understanding Blessed be God yet not knowing how soone it may please God to Change my sickness & life to death do therefore make and ordaine and by these presents Do make & ordaine these presents to be my last will and Testament to stand good and to Remaine firm and inviolable for ever in mañer and forme following: xxxxxxxxx

Imprs; I Will and bequeathe my Soul to God that gave it me and my body to the dust and to be decently Buried: and for that outward Estate that God hath given to me I Dispose of as followeth: Item I will and bequeathe unto my dear and Loving wife Pricilla Warren all that my now dwelling house out housing uplands & meadow lands that I am now possessed of in the Township of Plimouth, Excepting such Lands as I shall hereafter dispose of to my Son Joseph Together with all my houshold Goods and debts that is owing to me as also four Cows and two oxen which she shall have before a Division of my Cattell be made, all which houseing Lands debts Goods and Chattels above expressed I do Give unto my dear and Loving wife Priscilla Warren to be at her disposing and for her support During the time of her widowhoode; And farther I do give unto my Loving wife all that my fifty acres of Land Lying at Monament ponds in the Township of Plimouth as alsoe Eight acres of upland at the Hoopr glare field So Called for her to Rent out or Sell if necessity required. And I Doe by these presents allow her so to Doe as alsoe the one half of my uplands & meadow lands at Aggawam that is already Divided together with a fourth part of the undivided lands All which I Do give unto my loving wife to be at her Disposing to Doe with it what she will During her life or widowhood & for her support and Comfort and in Case she should marrey then my will is that she shall have, my best Bed and all furniture thereunto belonging to be her own for ever: Item I Give unto my son Joseph Warren all That my fifty acres of upland Lying upon Sandwich Road in the Township of Plimouth this to have and possess after my decease as alsoe the one half of my share of Land and meadow at Aggawam that is already Divided and after my Wives decease my will is and I doe by these presents give unto my Son Joseph Warren my now dwelling house outhousing uplands and meadow land that I have in the Township of Plimouth I do give to him and his Heirs for Ever that is begotten of his body. Item I give unto my son Benjamin Warren all my lands both uplands and meadow land that I have Lying both in Middlebury and Bridgwater Townships to belong to him and his heirs for Ever that is Begotten of his Body  Item I give unto my Daughter Mercy Bradford two Cows. Item and it is my Will that after my wives decease or marriage again that then my whole Estate both moveables Chattels or debts or whatsoever or wheresoever it may be found shall be equally divided amongst four of my Children that is to say Joseph Benjamin Patience and Elizabeth: And Lastly I do nominate and appoint my dear and loving wife Priscilla Warren to be the Sole Executrix of this my last will and testament to administer on my sd Estate to pay such debts as I owe and to Receive Such Debts as is owing to me and to se that my body be Decently buried and to defray the Charges thereof And I Do Request my Brother Thomas Faunce to be helpfull to my Sd Executrix in the acting and disposing of particulars according to the tenor hereof Thus hoping that this my last Will and Testament will be performed and kept Revoking all other wills Either verball or written I have here unto set my hand and seal on the 4th of May 1689:

                                                                                                                                                The Mark Wǽ of Joseph

Signed Sealed and Declared to be                                                                                    Warren Senior and a   (seal)

his Last will and Testament

In presence of

Ephraim Morton Senr

Ephraim Morton junr

Tho: Faunce

 

Ephraim Morton Thomas Faunce and Ephraim Morton junr the witnesses herein named appeared before two of the magistrates of this County of Plimouth vizt William Bradford Dept Govr, and John Cushing assistant & made oath that they were present and saw the above named Joseph Warren deceased Sign Seal & heard him Declare this instrument as his Last will & testament and that to ye best of their Judgment he was of a disposing mind & memory when he did ye same.                                                                                                                                           September ye 4th 1689:

                                                                                                                                                Attest Saml. Sprague Clerk

 

An Inventory of the Estate of Joseph Warren Senr of Plimouth Deceased Taken and apprised by us whose names are under written: on the 15th of May 1689 [not totaled, but only personal estate listed].

Ephraim Morton Senr

Tho Faunce

 

Priscilla relict Widdow of the above named Joseph Warren deceased appeared at Plimouth September the 4th: 1689 before the magistrates of this County of Plimouth and made oath that the above written is a true Inventory of the Goods & Chattels of sd deceased as far as She Knows and that if more appear she will Bring it to this Inventory

                                                                                                                                                Attest Saml. Sprague Clerk

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 1, p. 38-40.

 

 

Will of Joseph Warren of Plymouth, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1754) *

In the Name of God Amen.

        I Joseph Warren of Plimouth in the County of Plimouth in New England Yeoman, being Senceable of the Shortness of Time the certainty of Death, the Uncertainty of the time when; and being of Sound Disposing mind and memory blessed be God for it; Think it my Duty to Settle my Estate that God in his Providence hath Blessed me with; I do in the first place Give my Soul to God Hoping thro’ the Merrits of Jesus Christ to find acceptance with him, Also committing my body to the Dust, to be Decently Buried @ the Discretion of my Executor Hereafter named, not Doubting but the same will be Raised again @ the Resurrection of the Great Day, and I Hope in a Likeness to Christ’s Glorious body, I do Hereby Dispose of my Estate as follows,

Imprs. I Give to my well beloved wife Alletheah Warren & Her Heirs and Assigns the one third Part of all my Personall Estate of what name or nature so ever, Except what is by this Will hereafter Excepted or Given away to any of my Childred also the Improvement of one third part of my Real Estate in Plimouth and Wareham during the whole Tirm of Continuing my Widow, with full power of Cutting Ceader in my Ceader=swam in Plimouth and Wareham Sufficiant for what she Shall or may have Occation for, for Fencing while she Continues My Widdow as aforesaid; and said One Third part of the personal, and the Improvement of One Third of the Real as aforesaid is in full of my said Wife’s Right of Dower and Power of thirds in my Estate.

                Item  I give to my well beloved and Eldest son Joseph Warren His Heirs and Assigns forever (Saving the one third part of all my Real Estate as before in Expressed to My Loving wife So long as she continues in My Widdow,) also he paying Out his Part of the Legacies hereafter by this Will Given to My Daughters and Grand=Child; and their Heirs, as also one Half Part of my Funerall Charges Provided also that he shall make no Charge or Demands on my Estate for any Labour which he Hath don for me or upon my Farm or Else Where @ my Request Since he came to the age of Twenty one Years) All That my Homestead where I now Dwell in Plimouth with my Dwelling House Barn and out Houseing upland Meadow and Swampy Ground Adjoyning, Also all that my upland & Meadow in said Plimouth on the Westerly side Eal=river (so called) Adjoyning on the Southerly side to Lands of Ebenezer Holmes Junr. and the Road on the Westerly End to the Lands of Capt. Josiah Morton, on the northerly side an the Lands of Deacon Samuell Nellson, on the Easterly side by the River, Also three Sixteenth parts of the Beach and meadows Adjoyning Comonly called Plimouth Beach and is the whole of my Right and Title to said Beach and Meadows; also thirty three acres of Upland and Swampy Ground I bought of Robert Finney bounded by the Road that Leads to Wareham that Leads to Wareham on the Easterly end and Southerly by said son Joseph’s own Land and Northerly by the River so far as shall contain the whole Thirty three acres; Also all my Lott of Wood land which I bought of Elisha Washburn lying in Plimouth @ aplace called Fuller’s Vally, also that half of a Lott of Wood land which I bought of Esqr. Bartlett with Thomas Bartlett of Plimouth Also Eleven acres of Wood Land part of a Twenty acre Lott Adjoyning to Lands owned by the Heirs of John Watson Esqr. decd. also one peice of Ceader Swamp Containg about three acres in Plimouth and Lyes in the Sith Great Lott in said Ceader swamp which I bought of John Doten decd. also the whole of my Pew in the Meeting House upon the Lower floaer in the first maind in Plimo. Provided my said son Joseph shall Give a Good Conveyance of his Half of a Pew in the Gallery of aforesaid meeting House to his Brother William Warren, also the one Half part of my wareing apperall and Armour, which Homestead & Sundry Parcells of Land & Meadows and beach and Pew, and apparell & Armour I Give to my said Son Joseph Waren his Heirs & Assigns as his full part of my Estate,

        Item I Give to my beloved Son William Warren his heirs and Assigns forever (Saving the Improvement of one Third part of my Real Estate as before Given to My Loving Wife So long as she Continues My Widow, Also he paying out his Half Of the Severall Legacies hereafter Given to my Two Daughters and my Grandson William Morton and their heirs also the One half of my Funerall charges) all that Farm, House, barn and Out Hosing, upland, Meadow and Ceader swamp Lying & being in the Township of Wareham in the County of Plimo. Also all the Remaining part of my upland and meadow which I bought of Robert Finney of Plimouth Adjoyning to the Thirty three acres heretofore by this Will Given to my son Joseph Warren, also all that my Right and Interest in the fifth Great Lott of Ceader swamp in Plimouth South meadow Ceaderswamp, which I bought of Joseph Lucas & others; also the one halfe part of my wareing Apparell and Armour, which said Farm and Ceader swamp in Wareham and Lands & Meadow in Plimouth @ Eal-river and Ceaderswamp @ Plimpton apparel and Armer I give to my son William Warren his Heirs and Assigns as his full part of My Estate,

Item I Give to my Three Daughters Viz. Elizabeth Nellson her Heirs and Assigns, and to Mary Sheppard her heirs & Assigns, to Priscilla Drew her Heirs and Assigns, to each of My said Daughters their Heirs and Assigns in Equall parts All my Right Title and Interest, to Sundry Lotts of upland Meadow and Ceaderswamp Lying in the Towship of Middleboro. in the County of Plimo.; also all my Right Title and Interest to any Lands or Meadow or Ceaderswamp Lying in Freetown in the County of Bristoll, also I give to my said three Daughters Elizabeth, Mary & Priscilla, to each of them their Heirs and Assigns in Equall Parts, all that half and Lott of Ceaderswamp which I togather with Joseph Morton Deceased, and Lyes Plimton South Meadow Ceaderswamp, and is in the Third Great Lott in said Ceaderswamp, also my own share in the same Great Lott which fell to me as one of the Proprietors in said Ceaderswam as allso all my Real Estate Lying in Plimouth not before Disposed of by this Will, as also what Shall Remain of my Personall Estate after one third thereof is Sett of to my Widow, and my Just Debts, Funerall charges Excepted are taken out of the Remaining two Thirds, which which said Severall Lotts of land Togather with the Personall Estate, and Legacies Hereafter Given to my two Daughters Elizabeth and Priscilla is in full of My said Daughters part of My Estate.

Item I Give to my Daughter Elezabeth Nellson and her Heirs and Assigns, and to Priscilla Drew her Heirs & assigns One Hundred and Six pounds thirteen Shillings and four pence, to be paid to my said Daughters by my Two Sons Joseph & William Warren equally and in the following Maner Viz To Elizabeth her Heirs and Assigns Thirteen pounds Six Shillings and Eight pence in One Year after my decease, and to Priscilla her Heirs and assigns, the sum of Thirteen pounds Six Shilling and eight pence @ the same time and to each of them their Heirs and Assigns the same sum more, Year after the Time perfixt for the first Payment, and So annually till the whole Legacy be Paid,

Item I Give to My Grandson William Morton his Heirs & Assigns to be paid by my Two Sons Joseph & William Equally in Such maner and @ such Time as is hereafter Expresed the Sum of Fifty three pounds Six Shillings and Eight pence Viz. The Sum of thirteen pounds six shillings & Eight pence upon the day that My said Grandson shall arive to the Age of Twenty one Years, and the sum of Thirteen pounds six Shillings and Eight pence @ the Expiration of one Year after the time perfixed for the first payment and so the sum of Thirteen pounds Six shillings and Eight pence Annually, till the whole Sum of Fifty three pounds Six Shillings and eight pence be fully Paid, which said Sum is in full of my said Grandsons part of My Estate and Further My Will is that if my said Grandson William Morton Shall die before he arrive to the age of Twenty one Years, That then the said Sum of Fifty three pounds Six Shillings and Eight pence, Shall be paid by my Two Sons Joseph Warren & William Warren in Equall halves to my sd. Daughter Mary Sheppard her heirs and Assigns @ the same Time said Sums would have become due to my said Grandson William Morton had he Lived to the Age of Twenty One Years, and Further im Will is and I do Hereby appoint and Constitute my Well beloved Son Joseph Warren Sole Execr to this my Last Will and Testament Hereby Revoaking and Making Void all former Wills by me heretofore Made Publishing & Declaring this to be my Last Will & Testament Signed & Sealed this 24th day of June Anno. Dom. 1754

Signed Sealed Published & Declared to be

his Last Will and Testament in Presence of                                                                   Joseph Warren                 (seal)

Josiah Morton Jur.

Seth Morton

Thomas Foster

 

Presented for probate on 3 May 1756 by the Executor, and proved by Thomas Foster Esqr. and James Morton Junr., two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration granted to Joseph Warren, the Executor.

 

Vol. 14, p. 156-158

The Inventory of the Estate of Mr. Joseph Warren late of Plimouth, appraised on 12 May 1756 by Josiah Morton, Joseph Bartlett, and Joshua Swift, totaled £1865.12.7, including his homestead dwelling house, barn, and out housing valued at £560, his farm in Wareham valued at £466, and 65 acres of upland and meadow on the South Side of the Eall River valued at £347. The appraisers gave their oath to the inventory on 8 Sept. 1756, and Joseph Warren, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory also on 8 Sept. 1756.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 14, pp. 125-129, 156-158, from FHL microfilm #0551542.

 

 

Will of Nathaniel Warren of Plymouth, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1707) *

In the name of God Amen Know all men by these presents that I Nathll Warren of Plymouth in new-England, Considering ye uncertainty of Life & ye sertainty of Death, and being weak and Infirm in body but of Sound and Disposing mind and memory Doo make and ordain this my Last will and Testament as followeth, Impr: I Commit my Imortall soul to almighty God Relying upon his Rich Grace in ye Lord Jesus Chrust for that Glorious Life & Imortallity prepared for ye spirits of past men made perfect & my frail mortall body I Comitt to ye Dust to be Decently buried according to the Direction of my Executrix Hereafter namd & appointed in hopes of a Glorious Resurection thrô Jesus Christ the first fruits from the Dead, And as for that temporall Estate that it Hath pleased God to bless me withall, God in his holy providence having Denied me the blessing of a naturall ofspring, I Dispose of ye same as followeth that is to say — — — —

I give and bequeath my whole Estate both Reall and personall my Just Debts and funerall Chargs being first paid and discharged to my Dear and Loving wife Phebe Warren During her naturall Life for her support & Comfortable Livelyhood in Case She Remain my widow and in Case providence so order she shall se cause to marry my will is that she have 30 pound out of my Estate in such Goods and Chatils as she shall make Choice of according to apprizment as her owne Estate for ever as also my negro Girl Called pegg for her her heirs and assignes for ever and upon the Decease or marriage of my sd loving wife my will is that my whole Estate Excepting that I have given her in Case she marry as is above specifid be Distributed among my kindred here named as followeth—viz: Warren Gibbs James Warren the son of my brother Jams Sarah Warren the Daughter of my sd Brother Sarah Gibs alias Cushman the wife of Isaac Cushman Junr of Plymouth Alice Blackwell alias Spooner the Wife of willm Spoonr of Dartmouth Mercy Lumbard alias Burges ye wife of Ebenezer burges of Agawam in ye Township of Plymouth-- Jams Warren the son of my brother Richard Deceased Desire Blackwell alias Gonings the wife of Lettice Gonings of Dartmouth-- that is to say One quarter part of the whole to my sd kinsman Warren Gibbs One Sixth part of the whole to Jams Warren son of my brother Jams and another sixth part of the whole to sarah Warren Daftr of my sd brother and the Rest of my Relations afore named to be Equally Divided among them and be Enjoyed by them and their heirs for ever Item I Constitute & appoint my Loving & Dear wife Phebe warren sole Executrix of this my Last will & Testament hereby also Disannuling Revoaking & making all former Wills and Testaments void and of none ofoer[?] in Testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand & seall this 28th Day of october Anno Dom: one thousand Seven hundred & Seven 1707

Signd Seald & Declared                                                                                                     Nathaniel Warren            (seal)

to be his last will and

Testament Before us

Thomas Little

Elisha Wadworth

Ephraim Little Junr.

 

Memorand. on ye 3d day of febuary 1707 Before Nathll Thomas Esqr. Judg of ye Probat of wills &c. Thomas Little & Ephraim Little ye witness Hereto named made oath that Did se and here the above named Nathll Warren sign seal and Declare the above writen Instrument to be his Last will and Testament & that when he so did he was of Disposing mind to ye best of their Judgment & that Elisha Wadsworth did then set to his hand as witness — —       Nathaniel Thomas Regr.

 

The inventory of the estate of Nathaniel Warren, late of Plymouth, deceased, was appraised by John Murdo, Natha. Thomas, and Isaac Lathrop, dated 14 Dec. 1707, and was not totalled, but was large. Phebe Gray, relict widow and executrix of the estate of Nathaniel Warren, late of Plymouth, gave her oath to the inventory on 24 June 1709.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 2, p. 140-144, from FHL microfilm #0550748.

 

 

Will of Peter Warren of Andes, Delaware County, New York (1861) *

In the name of God Amen. I Peter Warren of the town of Andes, in the County of Delaware and State of New York of the age of eighty four years and being of sound mind and memory do make publish and declare this my last Will and testament in manner following that is to say

First I give and bequeath to my wife Mary Warren all my real and personal estate lying & being in the town county and State above mentioned, and lastly, I give and bequeath all the rest residue and remainder of my personal Estate goods and chattels of what nature or kind soever to my said wife Mary Warren whom I hereby appoint sole executrix of this my last will and testament hereby revoking all former wills by me made

In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this second day of May in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and sixty one

                                                                                                                                                Peter Warren                                    (seal)

The above instrument consisting of one sheet was at the date thereof declared to us by Peter Warren the testator therein mentioned to be his last will and testament and he at the same time acknowledged to us and each of us that he had sealed and signed the same and we thereupon at his request and in his presence and in the presence of each other signed our names thereunto as attesting witnesses.

                                                                                                                                Calvin Madison Residing at Union Grove in Delaware County

                                                                                                                                Sarah H Madison Residing at Union Grove Delaware County

 

Presented for probate on 26 June 1865, and proved by Sarah H Madison and Calvin Madison of the town of Andes in the County of Delaware.

 

Mary Warren, the Executrix, was granted administration of the last Will and Testament of Peter Warren, late of the town of Andes, on 26 June 1865.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Delaware County Probate Wills Vol. G, p. 83-84, from FHL microfilm #0832863, and Letters Testamentary and Administration Vol. G, p. 346.

 

 

Will of Abiel Washburn of Middleborough, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1843) *

        Be it remembered that I Abiel Washburn of Middleborough in the County of Plymouth Esquire being out of health but of sound and disposing mind do make and publish the following as and for my last will and testament, to wit.

I give to my Daughter Betsey Cushman fifteen hundred dollars to my Daughter Abigail twenty two hundred and fifty dollars to my Daughter Lucy Ann Wood twenty two hundred and fifty dollars to my Daughter Caroline Horton fifteen hundred dollars and to my Daughter Louisa Jane Smalley fifteen hundred dollars to them and their Heirs forever, to be paid to them at or before the expiration of two years after my decease by my Executor herein named—

And I give and bequeath to my three sons Abiel Washburn, William R. P. Washburn and Philander Washburn all the residue of my estate both real and personal to be equally divided between them after my just debts and funeral charges shall be paid to have and to hold to them and their Heirs and assigns forever – Provided however that my said sons shall equally maintain and honorable support my beloved wife in sickness and in health during her natural life. –

        And I do hereby constitute and appoint my two sons Abiel and Philander Executors of this my last will and testament hereby revoking all former wills by me made.

        In witness whereof I do hereto set my hand and seal this fifteenth day of June in the year eighteen hundred and forty three

                                                                                                                                                Abiel Washburn                (seal)

The foregoing instrument was signed, sealed published and declared by the Abiel Washburn the testator, as his last will and testament in presence of us who do hereto Set our hands in his presence and in presence of each other

                                                                                                                                                Enoch Tinkham

                                                                                                                                                Charles Soule

                                                                                                                                                Wilkes Wood

 

Probated on the last Tuesday of August, 1843, and proved by Enoch Tinkham and Charles Soule, two of the witnesses.

 

Abiel Washburn, of Boston, County of Suffolk, and Philander Washburn, of Middleborough, were granted Letters Testamentary on the estate of Abiel Washburn, late of Middleborough, Esquire, on 29 Aug. 1843, with William R. P. Washburn, of Boston, and William Bourne, of Middleborough, as sureties.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Abiel Washburn, late of Middleborough, was appraised by William Bourne, Ebenr. Perkins, and Wm. H. Wood on 25 Nov. 1843, and totaled $19,348.72, including his real estate valued at $17,200, but not including property belonging to P. Washburn & Co. Added to the inventory by A. Washburn Jr. and Philander Washburn, was 20 shares Bristol County Bank valued at $2000, and 2 shares Blue Hill Turnpike Corporation valued at $125. Philander Washburn and Abiel Washburn, the Executors, gave their oath to the inventory on 28 Nov. 1843.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 85, p. 377-378, will, p. 523-524, inventory, and Vol. 1G, p. 254, bond.

 

 

Will of Abigail Washburn of Middleborough, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1860) *

                In the name of God, Amen. I Abigail Washburn, of Middleborough, in the County of Plymouth and Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Widow lady, being of sound and disposing mind and memory, do hereby make, publish and proclaim this my last Will and Testament, hereby disposing of my worldly estate in the following manner, to wit:

                First. I do hereby give and bequeath to my sister Sarah Curtis, wife of David Curtis of Middleborough, one dollar in money.

                Second. I give and bequeath to my two nieces Sarah C. Jefferson, of Middleborough, and Mary Howland, of Plymouth, in equal shares, my wearing apparel.

                Thirdly. I do hereby give and bequeath to my Nephew David L. Curtis, of Middleborough, and my and my said Nieces Sarah C. Jefferson and Mary Howland, all the remainder and residue of my Estate both real and personal, in equal shares, wherever to be found after my decease, after the payment of my just debts and funeral expenses by my Executor hereinafter named.

                Fourthly. I do hereby appoint George Bramhall, Esq. of Plymouth, Executor of this my last Will and Testament.

                In witness whereof, I do hereunto set my hand and Seal, this seventeenth day of July, in the year of Our Lord, one thousand eight hundred and sixty, in presence of the witnesses named below, who at my request and in my presence, and in presence of each other, do hereunto set their names as witnesses, the day and year above written.

Abigail Washburn           (seal)                                                                      Stillman Benson

                                                                                                                                Wm. B. Gibbs

                                                                                                                                Mary Gibbs

 

Presented for probate on the last Tuesday of October 1860 by George Bramhall, the Executor, and proved by Stillman Benson, Wm. B. Gibbs and Mary Gibbs, the Witnesses.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 102, p. 382-383, from FHL microfilm #0555645.

 

 

Will of Abisha Washburn of Albion, Kennebec County, Maine (1827) *

    Be it remembered, that I Abisha Washburn of Albion in the county of Kennebec Gentleman, being weak in body, but of sound and perfect mind and memory blessed be Almighty God for the same, do make and publish this my last will and testament, in manner and form following (that is to say) First give and bequeath unto my beloved wife Sally Washburn the income arising from all my Real and personal Estate during the time She Shall remain my widow and unmaried provided She Shall Support my children during that time or ‘till they become of age viz. my sons to the age of twenty one years and Daughters to the age of Eighteen years.~ I do also give and bequeath unto my son Joseph L. Washburn ten Dollars when he arives to the age of twenty one years. I further give and bequeath to my two sons viz. Abisha Washburn and Albion Washburn jointly all my Real Estate except mills or Mill privileges and all my personal Estate when they arrive at the age of twenty one years – And to my son Nelson Washburn I give and bequeath all my right and title in and to the Grist Mill and privileges belonging to the same near Nathaniel Wiggin’s in China when he arrives at the age of twenty one years.

And to each of my daughters viz, Mary L. Washburn Jean Washburn Sally Washburn and Betsey Washburn I give and bequeath to each the sum of twenty dollars when they Shall each become eighteen years of age. ~

And I hereby appoint Japheth C. Washburn of China in said County, Sole Executor of this my last will and testament. ~

In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal the thirteenth day of December in the year of our LORD one thousand Eight hundred and twenty seven. ~

Signed, Sealed published and declared           }

by the said Abisha Washburn to be his            }                                                              Abisha Washburn                            (seal)

last Will and testament in presence                  }

of us who at his request and in his                    }

presence have hereunto subscribed                  }

our names as witnesses to the same                 }

O. Washburn

Sarah Washburn

Nancy Spratt

 

Presented for probate on 13 Sept. 1828 by Joseph [sic] C. Washburn, the Executor therein named, and proved by O W Washburn and Sarah Washburn, two of the witnesses.

Japheth C. Washburn gave his bond as Executor, with Robert Fletcher Esq. and Jacob McLaughlin yeoman, all of China, as sureties, on 13 Sept. 1828, witnessed by O.W. Washburn.

Japheth C. Washburn, Esqr., of China, Kennebec County, the Executor of the Will, was granted Letters Testamentary of the last Will and Testament of Abisha Washburn, late of Albion, on 19 Sept. 1828.

 

The Inventory of the estate of Abisha Washburn, late of Albion, was dated Dec. 1828, his real estate was valued at $1050, and his personal estate totaled $278.75.

 

To the Honerable Judge of Probate for the County of Kennebec

                Sally Washburn, widow of Abisha Washburn late of Albion in said County Gent. deceased prays your Honor to allow her, out of the personal estate of which the said Abisha Washburn died possessed, her wearing apparel, and such further necessaries, as in your discretion, you may judge proper.

Your petitioner would resents that in consequence of a lameness in her foot she is unable to do much work and that she has Eight minor Children to support several of which are very young and unable to do anything towards their support and will not be for several years to come.

Dated at Albion January 10th AD 1829

                                                                                                                                                Sally Washburn

 

The estate owed its creditors $1097.14, it was insolvent, and the creditors received $283.66 in compensation on 19 Jan. 1829.

 

To the Hon. Henry W. Fuller, Judge of Probate

Your petitioner respectfully represents to hour Honor, that her late husband Abisha Washburn, in his life time, made certain provisions in his will, for me, which provisions I wish to waiver, and have my dower or thirds of the real estate of which he died seized and possessed, set off to me as the law or statute directs.

Abion Sept. AD 1830                                                                                                         Sally Washburn

 

On 14 Sept. 1830 Robert Fletcher Esq., Stephen Bragg Yeoman and John Brackett Esq. all of China, were appointed to set off from the real estate of Abisha Washburn, late of China [sic], to his widow Sally Washburn, her dower in the estate.

 

On 14 Sept. 1830 Japheth C. Washburn, Executor of the last will and testament of Abisha Washburn, late of Albion, was ordered to sell the remaining estate of the deceased to pay its debts.

 

 

 

Will of Abishai Washburn of Stafford, Tolland County, Connecticut (1815) *

I Abishai Washburn of Stafford in the County of Tolland and State of Connecticut although labouring at present under some indisposition of body yet being of sound and disposing mind memory & understanding through the mercy of God do make and ordain this my last Will and testament in manner & form following; first and principally I resign my soul with the utmost humility into the hands of Almighty God my creator humbly hoping for a blessed immortality through the merits and mediation of my blessed Saviour and Redeemer Jesus Christ and my body I desire may be decently buried at the discretion of my Executor and as for such temporal estate as the Lord in his great goodness & mercy hath intrusted me to be Steward of I give devise and dispose thereof as follows, that is to say, I will that all my debts and funeral charges be paid and discharged by my Executrix hereinafter named

Item I give and bequeath unto my five daughters, viz Nancy, Mary, Lucretia, Content and Amanda after the decease of my self and wife my new house and all my house hold furniture, giving the above mentioned daughters a privilege of living in the said new house during the natural life of my wife, and one acre of land lying in Stafford bounded as follows beginning at the Brook south of the house, thence running north bounded on the highway 20 rod, thence East 8 rods then South 20 rods thence West 8 rods to the first mentioned bounds to them and their heirs forever. Item I do give unto my son Abishai ten dollars. Item I will that all the rest of my estate both real & personal of what kind soever be equally divided amongst my six daughters, viz, Polly, Nancy, Mary, Lucretia, Content & Amanda, and I will that the stock which the above mentioned daughters now possess and hold as their own private property still continue to be theirs.  And lastly I do make and constitute my wife Mary Executrix of this my last Will & Testament  In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this 14th day of March AD 1815

In presence of                                                                                                                                      his

Calvin Edson                                                                                                                        Abishai  X  Washburn                        (seal)

Rhodolphus Ladd                                                                                                                             mark

William Orcutt

 

Presented for probate on 11 Apr. 1815 by Mary Washburn, the Executrix therein named, and approved the same day.

 

On 9 Apr. 1816 Mary Washburn, Executrix of the last will and testament of Abishai Washburn, late of Stafford, notified the court that it appears the debts and charges against the estate of the decease surmount that part of the personal estate of the deceased which may be sold without prejudice to the widow and heirs of the deceased by $115, and petitioned for a license to sell so much of the real estate of the deceased as will raise the sum of $115.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Town of Stafford Register of Probate Records Vol. 8, p. 546-547, from FHL microfilm #0005745, and Vol. 9, p. 285.

 

 

Will of Capt. Abraham Washburn of Hinsdale, Berekshire County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1838) *

Know all that I Abraham Washburn of Hinsdale in the County of Berkshire and Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Gentleman do make my last will and Testament in manner following that is to say –

        I will and direct that all the Just debts which I may be owing, at my decease, and my funeral charges be paid as soon thereafter as conveniently may be, by my Executor herein after named.

                        I give and bequeath unto my beloved wife Olive in case she shall survive me, an annuity of eighty dollars per year, to be paid her by my said Executor at the end of each and every year during her natural life.

                        I give and bequeath unto my Infant grand daughter Olive Washburn Merrifield, in case she shall live to be married, or arrive at the age of twenty one years, the sum of four hundred dollars to be paid her by said Executor, as soon as either of those events shall have occurred and also an annuity commencing when she shall arrive to the age of fifteen years, if she shall live so long of twenty four dollars per year, and payable at the end of each year after her attaining the said age of fifteen years until the said sum of four hundred dollars above given her shall become due and payable to her, And I do charge the whole of my real estate with the payment of the foregoing Legacy and annuities –

                        I give and bequeath and devise all the residue and remainder of my estate whatsoever and wheresoever, real personal and mixed, unto my son in law Elijah H. Goodrich of said Hinsdale. To have and hold the same unto him the said Elijah H. his heirs and assigns forever. And I do appoint the said Elijah H. Goodrich the sole Executor hereof.

                        In witness whereof I the said Abraham have hereto set my hand and seal the tenth day of March in the year of our Lord eighteen hundred and thirty eight.

                        Signed sealed and published by said

testator as and for his last will and                              }

testament in presence of us, who hereto                     }                                                  Abraham Washburn                       (seal)

set our names as witnesses in his                                  }

presence & in the presence of each                             }

other

                                James Allen

                                James H. Baker

                                Charles Allen

 

Presented for probate on 4 Nov. 1851 by Elijah H. Goodrich, of Hinsdale, and proved by James Allen, of Detroit, County of Wayne and State of Michigan, one of the witnesses, whose deposition was taken on 14 Oct. 1851 at Detroit. In the petition for probate Olive Washburn Merryfield, granddaughter, a resident of Windsor, Berkshire County, and Elijah H. Goodrich, a resident of Hinsdale, were listed as the only surviving heirs.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Berkshire County Probate Wills Vol. 5, p. 25-27, from FHL microfilm #0879023, and Probate Docket #7663.

 

 

Will of Abraham Washburn of Mount Pleasant, Westchester County, New York (1859) *

                Know all men by these presents: that, I Abraham Washburn of the Town of Mount Pleasant in the County of Westchester and State of New York considering the uncertainty of this life and being of sound mind and memory do make declare and publish this my last Will and Testament.

                First:– I devise my Executors hereinafter named to pay all my just debts and funeral expenses.

                Second:– I give and bequeath to my Wife Susan Ann Washburn all of my property or estate both real and personal to have and to hold the same to her and to her heirs and assigns forever.

                Third:– I hereby appoint my Wife to be the Executrix and in case of her inability or disinclination to act in that capacity then I would nominate and appoint Caleb W. Haight to be the Executor of this my last Will and Testament.

                In Testimony Whereof I hereunto set my hand and seal and publish and decree this to be my last Will and Testament in presence of the witnesses named below this fourteenth day of April in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and fifty nine.

                                                                                                                                                Abraham Washburn                        (seal)

                Signed sealed published and declared by the said Abraham Washburn as and for his last Will and Testament in presence of us who at his request and in his presence and in the presence of each other have subscribed our names as witnesses hereto.

                                                                                                Benjamin Washburn

                                                                                                Oliver J. Washburn

 

Caleb Haight, the Executor, petitioned for probate of the will of Abraham Washburn, late of Mount Pleasant, on 1 July 1863. Susan A. Washburn, the widow of Abraham Washburn, declined as Executrix on 11 July 1863. His heirs are identified as his widow Susan A. Washburn, of Mount Pleasant, his brothers and sisters Noah Washburn, of Mount Pleasant, Jesse Washburn, of Lewisboro, Amy Washburn, of New Castle, Jane Whitson, of Ossining, Mary Sarles, wife of Archer Sarles, of Peekskill, and Tamer Washburn, whose place of residence is unknown; the children of his deceased brother Isaac Washburn, namely Oliver Washburn, of Huron Co., Ohio, Wright Washburn, now in the Army of the United State, whose place of residence is uncertain, and Adelia Miller, now residing in the State of Illinois, town unknown; the children of his deceased sister Sally Sarles, namely Abraham Sarles, Joseph Sarles, and Warren Sarles, all now residing in New Castle, and Adelia Moseman, now residing in the City and County of New York; the son of his deceased brother Richard Washburn, namely C. Underhill Washburn; the daughter of Aaron Washburn, deceased, son of his deceased brother Richard Washburn, namely Josephine Washburn, whose place of residence is unknown; the children of Maria Webber, deceased, daughter of his deceased brother Richard Washburn, namely Janetta Webber, Maria Webber, and Castilla Webber, all residing in Ossining, and Aaron Delaquie, Georgianna Delaquie and Franklin Delaquie, residing in Detroit in the State of Michigan, whose relationship was not given.

 

Caleb W. Haight, of Mount Pleasant, testified on 12 Oct. 1853 that he notified Noah Washburn on 12 Aug. 1863, Jane Whitson on 13 Aug. 1863, C. Underhill Washburn on 13 Aug. 1863, Joseph Sarles on 14 Aug. 1863, Amy Washburn on 17 Aug. 1863, Mary Sales on 21 Aug. 1863, Adelia Moseman on 22 Aug. 1863, Warren Sarles on 24 Aug. 1863, Abraham Sarles on 24 Aug. 1863, Janette Webber and Maria Webber on 5 Sept. 1863, being minors, and Jasper Webber being their father, Castilla Webber, also a minor, on 25 Sept. 1863, and Susan Washburn on 26 Sept. 1863. Hiram Paulding, of White Plains, was appointed as guardian ad litem of Janelle Webber, Castilla Webber and Maria Webber, and he confirmed on 12 Oct. 1863 that he had received notification of the probate.

 

The Will was Probated on 12 Oct. 1863, and proved by Benjamin Washburn, of Mount Pleasant, and Oliver J. Washburn, of Mount Pleasant, the two witnesses.

Letters of Administration were granted to Caleb W. Haight, the Executor on 12 Oct. 1863.

His inventory was appraised by Oliver J. Washburn and Benjamin Washburn on 29 Oct. 1863, and totaled $3070.00.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Westchester County Probate, Wills Vol. 46, p. 495-500, and his estate papers in Docket #227 for 1863.

 

 

Will of Adelia Washburn of Gaines, Orleans County, New York (1892) *

I, Adelia Washburn of Gaines, Orleans County, N.Y., do make, ordain, publish and declare this my last Will and Testament, in manner and form following, that is to say: –

First. I direct the payment of my just debts, if any, and my funeral expenses.

Second – I give, devise and bequeath to my nephews, George W. Thomas and Charles H. Thomas, each the sum of Five Hundred and ninety-nine dollars.

Third – I give, devise and bequeath all the rest, residue and remainder of my property to my brother Gates Washburn.

I likewise empower my Executor hereinafter named to sell and convey any real property I may own at my death the cause as I might if living.

Likewise, I make, Constitute and appoint my said brother Gates Washburn to be Executor of this my last Will and Testament, hereby revoking all former Wills by me made.

In Witness Whereof, I have hereunto subscribed my name and affixed my seal, the Tenth Day of June, in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and ninety=two.

                                                                                                                                                Adelia Washburn                             (seal)

  The above written instrument was subscribed by the said Adelia Washburn in our presence, and acknowledged by her to Each of us; and she, at the same time, declared the above instrument, so subscribed, to be her last Will and Testament, and we, at her request and in her presence, and in the presence of each other, do here sign as witnesses thereto.

                                Elmira L. Wage,    Albion,                N.Y.

                                Miss Polly M. Kelsey.

                                                                Albion, Orleans County, N.Y.

 

Presented for probate on 20 June 1898 by Gates Washburn, the Executor therein named.

 

Gates Washburne was granted Letters Testamentary on the estate of Adelia Washburne on 25 June 1898.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Orleans County Probate Wills Vol. 26, p. 501-502, from FHL microfilm #0592766, and Letters Testamentary Vol. 8, p. 49.

 

 

Will of Alonzo Washbond of North Elba, Essex County, New York (1875) *

                In the name of God Amen

        I Alonzo Washbond of the town of North Elba in the County of Essex, and State of New York, being of sound mind and memory, considering the uncertainty of this life, do make and declare and publish this my last will and testament.—

        First.– I give and bequeath unto my beloved wife Almira, All of the household utensils and goods chattels and property of which I now have or may hereafter possess or be entitled to at the time of decease, to have and to hold the same to her and her Executors and administrators and assigns forever

        Second.– I give and bequeath to my son Charles one dollar in addition to what he has had by a division and full settlement between us.–

                In Testimony whereof, I have to this my last Will and Testiment, hereunto set my hand and seal, and publish and decree this Will in the presence of the witnesses named below this    day of           in the year of Our Lord One thousand Eight hundred and seventy five  (1875)

                                                                                                                                                Alonzo Washbond                            (seal)

Signed sealed and published by the said Alonzo Washbond as and for his last Will and testament in presence of us, who at his request and in his presence, and in presence of Each other, have subscribed our names as witnesses hereto

                Freeman L Lyon  } Residing in the town of Franklin

                Lydia M. Lyon     } & County of Franklin state of New York

(Dated Nov. 18th. 1875)

 

Probated on 31 Jan. 1876, and proved by Freeman L. Lyon, physician, and cross examined by Francis A. Smith Esquire, counsel for Charles A. Washbond, sole heir and next of kin of the deceased, who testified that the will was drawn at his house in the town of Franklin, Franklin Co., New York, on 18 Nov. 1875 before himself, his wife, and Mrs. Washbond, and that he added the date at the bottom of the will. He also testified that Alonzo died about the 21st day of December.

Sworn to on 10 Jan. 1876 by Freeman L. Lyon, and on 31 Jan. 1876 by Lydia M. Lyon.

 

Almira Washbond of North Elba was granted Letters Testamentary on the estate of Alonzo Washbond, of North Elba, on 11 Feb. 1876.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Essex County Probate, Wills Vol. F, p. 440-450, from FHL microfilm #0866332, and Letters Vol. D, p. 52.

 

 

Will of Alonzo Washburn of Macomb and Canton, St. Lawrence County, New York (1892) *

In the name of God, Amen;

                I, Alonzo Washburn of Macomb, N.Y., being of sound mind and memory, and considering the uncertainty of this frail and transitory life, do therefore make, ordain, publish and declare this to be my last Will and Testament, that is to say;

                First. After all my lawful debts are paid and discharged, I give, devise and bequeath to my wife Chloe M. Washburn the use rents, profits and possession of all my property both real and personal so long as she shall remain my widow, and in case of her remarriage then on the hapening of that event, I give & bequeath unto her all of my personal property to have and to hold the same forever; but at the same time all her right & interest in my real estate shall terminate & cease; and this bequest & devise is in lieu of all her dower rights.

                Second. And the rest, residue and remainder of my property both real and personal I give, devise and bequeath to my daughters Laura A. Washburn and Mildred E. Washburn, to have and to hold the same forever and to be divided between them equally, share and share alike.

                Likewise, I make, constitute and appoint my wife Chloe M. Washburn to be executrix of this, my last Will and Testament, hereby revoking all former wills by me made.

                In Witness Whereof, I have hereunto subscribed my name and affixed my seal, the 17th day of March, in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and ninety two.

                                                                                                                                                Alonzo Washburn                            (seal)

                The above partly written and printed instrument was subscribed by the said Alonzo Washburn in our presence and acknowledged by him to each of us; and he at the same time declared the above instrument so subscribed, to be his last Will and Testament; and we, at his request have signed our names as witnesses hereto, in his presence and in the presence of each other, and written opposite our names our respective places of resident.

                A. W. Orvis, Gouverneur, N.Y.

                G. S. Conger, Gouverneur, N.Y.

 

The Will of Alonzo Washburn, late of Canton, St. Lawrence Co., was presented for probate on 1 June 1915 by Chloe M. Washburn, the Executrix named, listing his heirs as Chloe M. Washburn, widow, of Canton, NY, Laura A. Washburn, daughter, of Rens. Falls, NY, and Mildred E. Washburn, daughter of Rens. Falls, NY. The will was proved by Arthur W. Orvis on 28 June 1915, G. S. Conger having died on 31 Jan. 1913 in Gouverneur, NY.

 

Chloe M. Washburn was granted Letters Testamentary on the estate of Alonzo Washburn, late of Canton, on 28 June 1915.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from St. Lawrence County Probate Wills Vol. 48, pp. 589-590, 592, from FHL microfilm #1571565, and Letters Testamentary Vol. 20, p. 53.

 

 

Will of Amanda Washburn of Lenox, Berkshire County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1877) *

Know all men by these presents, that I Amanda Washburn of Lenox County of Berkshire and state of Massachusetts, being of sound mind and memory Blessed be God for the same, do make publish and declare this my last will and testament as follows   viz.

1st  I direct that all my just debts and funeral charges be paid by my executor, who I hereby authorize to sell at private sale or auction any or all of my real or personal estate of whatsoever name or nature immediately after my decease & to convey the same

2d  I direct that my name be inscribed on the monument of my late husband Amos S. Washburn deceased

3d  I give & bequeath to the American Board of Commissioners for Foreign missions the sum of One hundred dollars.

4th  I give & bequeath to the Home Missionary Society the sum of one hundred dollars to be paid to the Treasurer of sd Society for the use & benefit of sd Society

5th  The residue of my estate both real & personal after the expenses of Administration are paid I give & bequeath to the children of my brother David S. Mattoon late of Lenox deceased & of my sister Nancy Hotchkin late of Lenox deceased to be equally divided between them & their heirs forever.

   And I hereby constitute & appoint Henry J. Mattoon sole executor of this my last will and testament

   In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand & seal this 8th day of June A.D. 1877

                                                                                                                                                Amand Washburn                            (seal)

Signed sealed published & declared by the above named Amanda Washburn to be her last will and testament in the presence of us who at her request & in her presence have hereunto set our names as witnesses

  Erasure made on 4th line from

bottom of 1st page before execution                                                                                 Thos. Sedgwick

                                                                                                                                                Henry Sedgwick

                                                                                                                                                Mary J. Sedgwick

 

Presented for probate on 20 July 1880 by J. Henry Mattoon of Lenox. Letters Testamentary were granted to John Henry Mattoon on 20 July 1880, with James F. Mattoon and Grafton S. Pelton as sureties.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Berkshire County Probate Wills Vol. 121, p. 219-220, from FHL microfilm #1750454.

 

 

Will of Capt. Amos S. Washburn of Lenox, Berkshire County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1851) *

I Amos Washburn of Lenox County of Berkshire & State of Massachusetts, considering the uncertainty of this mortal life & being of sound mind and memory blessed be God for the same do make and publish this my last Will and Testament in manner & form following ~ First, I order and direct that my just debts and funeral charges be paid:

2: I give & bequeath to my beloved Wife Amanda Washburn the sole use of my present dwelling House & House Lot, with all the buildings therein.~ The Garden over the River~  Ten Shares of the Stockbridge & Pittsfield Rail Road Stock– The Gates Farm (so called) with the privilege of cutting Wood & Timber on the Stevens Lot, or any other land owned by me, that she may want for her own use for repairs or firewood for and during her natural life, and at her decease the use aforementioned property to my Son Sidney & Harriot his Wife or the survivor for & during his or her or their natural life or lives as Joint Tenants, and at their decease, to be equally divided between their surviving children ~~~ I also give & bequeath to my wife Amanda the sum of Two Hundred Dollars from my personal property in money also all the House hold Furniture~ also one half of all Notes & Book Accounts due me over & above the sd. Two Hundred Dollars Also one Horse one Cow, with such suitable fodder to keep them as may be in my Barn, one Harness, one Waggon, one single sleigh & all such farming Tools as she may need – also so much of such provision as may be on hand for her use one year to her & her use & disposal forever.~ Further – I give & bequeath the use of the Residue of all my Real Estate to my Son Sidney & Harriet his Wife as joint Tenant for and during their natural life or lives & at their decease to be equally divided between their surviving children ~ I also direct that the residue of my personal property as soon as it can reasonably be converted into Cash; shall be invested in some public Stocks or securities as may be deemed best or in some other way, that an annual or semi-annual interest may accrue: said interest that may so accrue I give & bequeath to my Son Sidney & Harriet his wife for & during their natural life or lives & at their decease the capital to be equally divided between their surviving children.

        I hereby appoint Thomas Sedgwick Sole Executor of this my last Will and Testament.~~ In Witness ~ I have set my hand & Seal this Eighth day of January A. D. 1851.

                                                                                                                                                Amos S. Washburn                          (seal)

Signed sealed published and declared by

the above named Amos S. Washburn to be his last will and Testament in the presence of us, who at his request & in his presence have hereunto subscribed our names as Witnesses this Eight day of January 1851.                              George G. Eddy – Merrit Van Deusen – William Thomas.

 

Presented for probate on 4 Mar. 1851 by Thomas Sedgwick, the Executor therein named, and proved by Geo. G. Eddy and Merrit Van Deusen, who testified that they saw Capt. Amos Washburn sign, seal and heard him pronounce publish and declare the said instrument to be his last will and testament.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Berkshire County Probate Wills Vol. 4, p. 417-419, from FHL microfilm #0879023.

 

 

Will of Amy Washburn of Mount Pleasant, Westchester County, New York (1874) *

                I Amy Washburn being of sound mind and memory do make ordain publish and declare this to be my last Will and Testament that is to say

First After all my lawful debts are paid and discharged I give devise and bequeath my bed and bedding I give to Phebe Jane Brudage me nease [niece] my Beaura [bureau] I give to my – and looking glass – nease Ireane Williames my trunke I give to Milbey Smith grault [grand?] naver [niece] wat [what] money is left after paying all charges I give to my brother Jesse Washburn my ward rob [wardrobe] I give to my two neases Phebe Jane and Ireand

Likewise I make constitute and appoint Bartholomew R Washburn to be Executor of this my last Will and Testament hereby revoking all former Wills by me made

In Witness whereof I have hereunto subscribed my name and affixed my seal the Fifteenth day of May in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and seventy fore

                                                                                                                                                Amy Washburn                 (seal)

The above instrument consisting of one sheet was at the date thereof subscribed by Amy Washburn in the presence of us and each of us and each of us she at the time of making such subscription acknowledged that she made the same and declared the said instrument so subscribed by her to be her last Will and Testament Whereupon we then and there at her request and in her presence and the presence of each other subscribed our names as witnesses thereto

Antoinette Washburn residing at Mt Pleasant N.Y.

Charles Fisher residing at                  Do       N.Y.

 

Bartholomew R. Washburn, the Executor, petitioned for probate of the will on 12 Jan. 1875.

Proved by Antoinette Washburn of Mt. Pleasant and Charles Fisher of Mt. Pleasant on 5 Mar. 1875.

 

Letters Testamentary Vol. L, p. 51:

Bartholomew R. Washburn, the Executor, was granted administration of the estate on 5 Mar. 1875.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Westchester County Probate, Wills Vol. 74, p. 374-379, and Letters Testamentary, Vol. L, p. 51. Note: Apparently the clerk transcribing the will into the probate book had great difficulty reading the handwriting of Amy Washburn.

 

 

Will of Ann Eliza Washburn of Ossining, Westchester County, New York (1884) *

In the name of God Amen  I Ann Eliza Washburn of town of Ossening village of Sing Sing State of New York Being of sound mind and Memory do make and publish this my last will and testament.  I give and bequeath to Kate Belknap Washburn one dozen solid silver tea spoons and two preserve spoons –

I give and bequeath to Jennie Washburn daughter of Benj Washburn my plated forks.

I give and bequeath to Reuben F Washburn my Bureau

I give and bequeath to Susan Merritt my Marble top stand

I give and bequeath to Edward Belknap my Clock and Lounge

I give and bequeath to Edward B. Washburn one hundred dollars to be kept at interest until he is twenty One when he is to have the whole principal and interest.  I give and bequeath to Maggie E Washburn my gold watch chain.  I give and bequeath to Edward B. Washburn my gold watch when he is sixteen years old.
I give and bequeath to Maggie E. Washburn my bedstead washstand feather bed pillows and bolster, Counterpin two sheets, one flannel blanket two Comfortables, springs.

I give and bequeath my looking glass, large upholstered hair cloth rocking chair, Stove, Carpet, Mahogany table to Daniel B Washburn.

I give and bequeath my linen Sheets and bedding to be equally divided between Frank Phebe, and Rachel Belknap.  I give and bequeath to Adelaide H. Waugh my large Bible.

I give and bequeath Phebe Belknap my set of dishes and white shawl.

I give and bequeath to Gertrude R Weed my picture the Lords Supper.

I give and bequeath to M. F. Belknap my caster

I do nominate and appoint to be the sole Executor and Executrix of my last Will and Testament Isaac R. Secor M.D. and Maggie E. Washburn

In testimony whereof I hereto set my hand and seal and publish and declare this to be my last will and testament in presence of the witnesses named below this 2d day of Aug 1884

                                                                                                                                                Ann Eliza Washburn

Signed sealed declared and published by the said Ann Eliza Washburn as and for her last will and testament in presence of us who at her request and in her presence and in presence of each other have subscribed our names as witnesses hereto

Isaac R. Secor  M D.  Sing Sing  N.Y.

Maggie E. Washburn    “      “        “

Eliza Reynolds

 

Presented for probate on 12 Mar. 1885 by Isaac R. Secor, the Executor, and proved by Maggie E. Washburn and Isaac R Secor both of the town of Ossening, on 11 Apr. 1885. Letters of Administration were granted to Isaac R. Secor on 11 Apr. 1885, and Wm M. Barton was appointed as special guardian for the minors of the deceased.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Westchester County Probate, Wills Vol. 100, p. 147-153.

 

 

Will of Anna Washburn of Mount Pleasant, Westchester County, New York (1859) *

                                I, Anna Washburn, of the Town of Mount Pleasant, County of Westchester & State of New York, being of sound disposing mind & memory Do make & ordain this my last Will & Testament in the following manner, viz:

                                1st.  I order and direct all my just debts & funeral charges paid by my Executors hereinafter to be named.

                                2nd.  I give and bequeath to my neices Rebecca Ward, Anna Edgerton and Dorcas Weeks and my Nephew Charles Sutton one hundred and fifty dollars each. Also I give and bequeath to William Henry Sutton and George Edwin Sutton minors of the late Alfred Sutton, deceased, Seventy five Dollars each. The interest on the before named sums to be expended in their education and support, should my Executors consider it to be for the best interest of said minors, to do so, otherwise it shall be added to the principal & the whole paid to them when they shall arrive at legal age. And my mind & will is should either of the aforesaid minors fail of attaining twenty one years of age, that his share go to his surviving brother and in case neither attains legal age thier share is to go to their uncle Charles Sutton.

                                3rd.  I give and bequeath to my neices Elizabeth Ferguson & Eliza Harring and to my nephew Jesse Weeks One hundred Dollars each. Also I give to Major Marshall and his sisters Mary Ann Marshall and Elizabeth Marshall the sum of One hundred Dollars to be equally divided between them.

                                4th.  I give & bequeath to my Neices Rebecca Miller, Josephine Weeks, Mary Elizabeth Weeks and Mary Weeks widow of my late nephew Edmund Weeks deceased Fifty dollars each.

                                And I also give and bequeath to Abel Washburn and Elcanah L Washburn, sons of my late husband Elijah Washburn, dec’d, fifty dollars each.\

                                5th.  If my Estate should be insufficient to meet the before mentioned bequests my mind is that each of the above named Heirs bear their share in the deficiency.

                                6th.  to my brothers children not named in this instrument (or their children) I give and bequeath the residue of my property of whatever description to be equally divided between them as though named.

                                Lastly, I hereby ordain and appoint James Pierce and John W. Pierce both of the town of Mount Pleasant my only and lawful Executors to this my last Will and Testament hereby revoking all former Wills by me made or named.

                                In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this 31st day of 3rd Mo. 1859.

                                                                                                                                                Anna Washburn                (seal)

                                By the request of the above named Testatrix Anna Washburn and in her presence & in the presence of each other we have subscribed our names as witnesses hereoff.

Moses Pierce                         { of Mount Pleasant

Phebe Anna Pierce               { of Mount Pleasant

 

On 6 June 1870 John W. Pierce, the Executor, petitioned for probate of the will of Anna Washburn, late of Mount Pleasant. The Probate was set for 12 Aug. 1870.

 

Proved by Moses Pierce of Mount Pleasant, one of the witnesses, on 12 Aug. 1870.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Westchester County Probate, Wills Vol. 62, p. 179-185.

 

 

Will of Anne Washburn of Mount Pleasant, Westchester County, New York (1822) *

                Be it remembered that I Anne Washburn of the Town of Mount Pleasant County of Westchester State of New York being weak in body but of sound mind and memory, do make and ordain this to be my last will and Testament in manner and form following that is to say I order my Executors whome I hereby appoint namely John Wright Amy Washburn and Solomon Underhill I authorise and impower my Executors to sell all my goods and chattels of what kind and nature soever when they think it a suitable time and collect all moneys due to me and place the money at interest except so much of the money as may be wanting to pay my just debts funeral charges and to bring up my children till they become of age  I order my Executors to give my children cheel larning to fit them for business and pay that and all necessary expences of what kind soever they may need untill they become of age out of my moneys and the remainder part of my money I order my executors to divid equably between my four children Abraham Plilana Isaac Jacob and pay it to them as they become of age in witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this twenty fifth day of third month one thousand eight hundred and twenty two.

                                                                                                                                                Anne Worshburn                              (seal)

Signed sealed published and declared by the above named Anne Washburn to be her last Will and Testament in the presence of us who have hereunto subscribed our names as witnesses in the presents of the testator

John Worshburn   Samuel Ward   Richard Whitson

 

Presented for probate on 30 Mar. 1824, and proved by Samuel Ward, one of the witnesses.

Letters of administration granted to Solomon Underhill, the Executor, on 30 Mar. 1824.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Westchester County Probate, Wills Vol. K, p. 246-248.

 

 

Will of Anne Washburn of Dartmouth, Bristol County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1833) *

I Anne Washburn of Dartmouth in the County of Bristol and Commonwealth of Massachusetts widow being somewhat advanced in years but of a sound disposing mind & memory, and duly considering the mortality of my body have thought fit and proper to dispose and give of what little worldly estate I have in manner and form following—

Imprimis I give and bequeath to my son Libeus Washburn his heirs and assigns forever all my right tills and interest which I have in and unto a certain Lot of land with the buildings thereon lying situate in Dartmouth aforesaid at the Villege of Padenorum so called it being the place whereon I now reside see deed of Laban Thatcher Esq. Deceased to chr G. Anne Washburn for the Boundaries thereon. I also appoint my said son Libeus Executor to this my last will and testament to whom I give the rest and residue of my estate after the payment of my Just debts and funeral charges exempting one dollar which I give unto my Daughter Charlotte Snow wife of Washington Snow.  In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand & Seal this twenty eighth day of September in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and thirty three.

                                                                                                                                                Anne Washburn

Elihu Slocum

Frederick Smalley

                                                                                                                                April 7, 1837

                                                                                                                                Approved

 

Libeus Washburn, the executor, presented the will for probate on 7 Apr. 1837, and Elisha Slocum, of Dartmouth, was his surety.

 

We the subscribers the only heirs at law of Anne Washburn late of Dartmouth in the said county deceased hereby signify that we have no objection to the proving of the will of said Anne.

                Charlotte Snow                                                    Libeus Washburn

                Dartmouth April 5, 1837

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from the Bristol County Probate File “Anne Washburn, Dartmouth, 1837,” from FHL microfilm #0577879, the will recorded in Bristol County Probate Vol. 77, p. 433.

 

 

Will of Anner S. Washburn of Lenox, Berkshire County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1830) *

In the name of God – Amen – I Anner S. Washburn of Lenox County of Berkshire and commonwealth of Massachusetts, mindful of my mortality and though weak in body, yet of sound mind and perfect memory, blessed be God therefor do make ordain and publish this to be my last will and testament in manner following, that is to say – First it is my will and I direct that all my just debts and funeral charges be paid by my Executor herein after named.~

Item – I give and bequeath to my well beloved mother Phebe Washburn & my sisters Laura Washburn – Olive the wife of John Sedgwick and Mary the wife of Ira Nash all my beds bedding Linen and wearing apparel in such portions that each shall have one equal share ~~

Item – I give and bequeath to my sister Laura Washburn all my right title and interest in or to the north chamber in the dwelling house of my mother &

Item ~ I give & bequeath to my sister Laura aforesaid all my right title and interest in or to Pew No. 25 in the congregational meeting house in Lenox to have and to hold the same to her the sd Laura in fee simple.~

Item – I give and bequeath to my well beloved sisters Laura Washburn Olive the wife of John Sedgwick and Mary the wife of Ira Nash the sum of thirty dollars each to be paid out of my personal Estate –

Item, I give and bequeath to my well beloved brothers Samuel Washburn Ira Washburn Amos S. Washburn and Thomas G. Washburn the sum of thirty dollars each, to be paid out of my real Estate situated & lying in Lenox being the north part of the home farm so called~

Item.~ I give and bequeath to the American Bible Society the sum of ten dollars, and to the American board of Commissioners for Foreign Missions the sum of five dollars to be paid out of my personal Estate~

Item – I give and bequeath to my brother Miles Washburn all the rest & residue of my Estate, whether real personal or mixed in possion reversion or remainder wherever the same may be found to have and to hold the same to him the said Miles his heirs and assigns forever~

Lastly – I do constitute and ordain my beloved brother Miles Washburn sole Executor of this my last will and testament.~ In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand & seal this fifth day of January in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and thirty~                            Anner S. Washburn                         (seal)

Signed, sealed, published and pronounced and declared by the sd. Anner S. Washburn as and for her last will and testament in the presence of us who at her request and in her presence, hereunto set our names as witnesses to the same~

                                                                Thomas Sedgwick,  Lyman Judd,  Caleb Belden.

 

Presented for probate on 2 Mar. 1830 by Miles Washburn, of Lenox, the Executor named, and proved by Thomas Sedgwick, Lyman Judd and Caleb Belden, the subscribing witnesses.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Berkshire County Probate Record Vol. 34, p. 91-93, from FHL microfilm #0873489.

 

 

Will of Asa Washburn of Putney, Windham County, Vermont (1828) *

                                                                                                                                                                In the name of God Amen

I Asa Washburn of Putney in the County of Windham and State of Vermont being weak in body but of sound and perfect mind and Memory blessed be Almighty God for the same do make and publish this my last will and testament in maner and form following (that is to say)

First I give and bequeath unto my beloved Wife Persis Washburn the use of two cows and six sheep, to be well keped summer and winter and the income to be at her disposal and when she is unable to milk her cows, then to have her cows milked for her, and the Butter and cheese made I als give and bequeath unto her the use of all my household furniture (excepting my clock and best dish) the use of a horse and some carriage at all times when she calls for one, three bushels of wheat four bushels of Rye and six bushels of corn all ground and delivered her yearly twenty pounds of flix well dressed two Barrils of Cider and as many apples as she may request picked and brought into the house to her and to furnish her with all kinds of sauce as much as she wishes for and forty pounds of good sugar one room in my dwelling house she to have her choise with a right in the kitchen sellar and chamber and sufficient quantity of firewood cut and brought into the house for her at all times six scores of pork well fatted and salted and one hundred and fifty pounds of beef well fatted and salted and ten pounds of tallow and ten dollars in money and when she is sick to provide a Doctor and nurse free from expense to her

                Now it is to be understood that if my executor hereafter named shall well and truly pay or cause to be paid to my beloved wife above named the above stated articles each and every year so long as she lives, then she is not to avail herself of a life lease she holds of my real estate but in case of a failure then she is to take the advantage of her lease

Item               I give and bequeath to my son Reuben Washburn the sum of one dollar which sum with what he has heretofore received makes up his full share of my estate

Item               I give and bequeath unto my son Seth Washburn the sum of one dollar which sum with what he has heretofore received makes up his full share of my estate

Item               I give and bequeath unto my son Jacob Washburn the sum of fifteen dollars, which sum makes up his full part of my estate

Item               I give and bequeath unto my daughter Lucy the Wife of Calvin Briggs the sum of one Dollar which sum with what she has heretofore received make up her full share of my estate

Item               I give & bequeath unto my Daughter Sally the wife of Jared Green the sum of one Dollar which sum with what I before gave her makes up her full part of my estate

Item               I give and bequeath unto my Daughter Amity Washburn the sum of one dollar which sum with what she has heretofore received makes up her full part of my estate   And to have a home in my dwelling house so long as she lives single

Item               I give and bequeath unto my Daughter Lucretia Washburn the sum of one dollar which sum with what I have heretofore given her makes up her full part of my estate

Item               I give and bequeath unto my four sons all my wearing Apparel to be equally divided among them

Item               I give and bequeath unto my four Daughters After the decease of my beloved Wife all my house hold furniture which she has the use of to be equally divided among them

Item               I give and bequeath to my children all my books except my bible After the decease of my beloved wife to be equally divided amongst them

Item               I give and bequeath to my son Asa Washburn Jun. one undivided half of lot number twenty two in the third division of land in the town of Calais in the County of Washington and State of Vermont, drawn to the original right of the Hon. Seth Washburn late of Leicester in the County of Worcester and Commonwealth of Massachusetts deceased and is bounded as in the Original plan of said township reference thereto being had, to him and his heirs forever, and also my pew in the meeting house in Putney Aforesaid to him and his heirs forever – I further give and bequeath to him the said Asa Washburn Jr all my stock and farming tools and also my blacksmith tools and likewise my clock and best Dish and book case and also my scotts family Bible after the decease of my beloved wife   And lastly as to all the rest residue and remainder of my personal estate goods and chattels of what kind or nature soever I give and bequeath to my son Asa Washburn Jr whom I hereby appoint sole executor of this my last will and testament hereby revoking all former wills by me made

                In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this first day of October in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred twety eight

Signed Sealed and published

and declared by the afore named

Asa Washburn to be his last will

and testament in presence of us who                                                                               Asa Washburn                                  (seal)

at his request and in his presence have

hereunto subscribed our names as Witnesses

to the same

                John Grout

                Sylvester Grout

                John Foster

 

Presented for probate on 20 Oct. 1834 by Asa Washburn, the executor therein named.

 

Proved in court on 26 Oct. 1834 by Sylvester Grout, one of the subscribing witnesses, the execution thereof is committed to Asa Washburn, the Executor therein named.

 

26 Nov. 1834 Letters Testamentary are granted to Asa Washburn to be executor of the last will and testament of Asa Washburn, late of Putney in said district deceased.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Windham County Probate Westminster District, Vol. L, pp. 304, 309-311, 315, from FHL microfilm #00029153.

 

 

Will of Benjamin Washburn of Mount Pleasant, Westchester County, New York (1863) *

                Benjamin Washburn, Last Will and Testament.

        I, Benjamin Washburn, of the town of Mount Pleasant in the County of Westchester and state of New York, being of sound disposing mind and memory, and deeming it prudent to make a disposition of my estate preparatory to that change which is appointed unto all me, do hereby make, publish and declare my last Will and Testament in manner and form following, that is to say:

First:  I order and direct my executors hereafter named to pay all my just debts and funeral expenses and also my Testamentary expenses out of my personal estate as soon as the same can be done after my decease.

Second:  I give and bequeath unto my wife Lydia to her and her heirs forever the sum of four thousand dollars. I also give and bequeath unto my said wife all the household furniture I may have at the time of my decease of every kind and description. The foregoing legacy of four thousand dollars and the before mentioned bequest of household furniture to my said wife, I give to her in lieu and satisfaction of her dower and thirds in my estate. But in case my said wife shall elect to take her dower or thirds as provided by law, then the foregoing bequests are to go with the residue of my estate and belong to my residuary legatees hereinafter named.

Third:  I give and devise to my son Morgan Fifteen hundred dollars.

Fourth:  I give and devise to my son Benjamin S. My house and lot situated in Malcolm Street in the Village of Sing Sing, Westchester County, to him and his heirs forever. I also give and bequest unto my said son Benjamin S. three thousand and two hundred dollars.

Fifth:  I give and devise unto my two sons Oliver and Isaac the farm of lands and premises in my possession, and on which I now reside, situated in the town of Mount Pleasant aforesaid, containing about one hundred and seventy acres, including the piece of land formerly owned by Abraham Tompkins with all the appurtenances thereunto, belonging to them and their heirs forever.

Sixth:  I give and bequeath my son Oscar the brick house and lot situated in State Street in the Village of Sing Sing to him and his heirs forever. I also give and bequeath to my son Oscar three thousand two hundred dollars.

Seventh:  I give and bequeath to my said sons Oliver and Isaac all my farming utensils, stock of cattle, and movable chattels of every kind and description excepting my household furniture which may be on my said farm at the time of my decease.

Eighth: I give and bequeath to my three daughters Abigail Jane, the wife of Robert Washburn, Helen the wife of Amos Clark, and Mary Emily the wife of George Sarles, each the sum of one thousand five hundred dollars over and above what I have already given them by way of advancement:– and which several legacies I direct my executors to pay to my said daughters, as soon as may be after my decease.

Ninth:  All the rest residue and remainder of my estate, both real and personal, I give devise and bequeath to my four sons Benjamin S, Oliver, Oscar and Isaac to be equally divided between them share and share alike.

Tenth:  I hereby nominate constitute and appoint my two sons executors viz: Benjamin S. and Oliver to this my Last Will and Testament hereby revoking all other wills by me at any time heretofore made.

                In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed my seal at Mount Pleasant in said County of Westchester on the Eighteenth day of June in the year one thousand eight hundred and sixty-three.

                                                                                                                                                Benjamin Washburn                       (seal)

The foregoing instrument was now signed, sealed, published and declared by Benjamin Washburn, the Testator, to be his Last Will and Testament in our presence, who at his request in his presence, and in the presence of each other, have hereunto subscribed our names as witnesses.

        Eastchester, West Chester          Isaiah Washburn

        Lewisboro, West Chester           Joshua B. Washburn

 

Oliver J. Washburn, the Executor, petitioned for probate of the Will of Benjamin Washburn, late of Mount Pleasant, on 22 May 1869. Probate was set for 21 June 1869 after the widow and heirs at law are notified.

 

The notice to the heirs, dated 22 May 1869, was addressed to Lydia F. Washburn, his widow, Oliver J. Washburn, Ellen Clark, wife of Amos R. Clark, Mary Augusta Washburn, Henrietta Lyon, wife of Jeremiah Lyon, and Lydia Washburn, all of Mount Pleasant, Oscar Washburn, of Ossining, Benjamin S. Washburn, of Yonkers, Morgan Washburn, Isaac T. Washburn, and Lemuel O. Washburn, all of New Utrecht, Kings County, Long Island, and Mary Emily Sarles, wife of George Sarles, of Bedford. Lydia F. Washburn was his widow, Ellen Clark, Morgan Washburn, Benjamin S. Washburn, Oscar Washburn, Mary Emily Sarles, and Isaac T. Washburn were his children; Lemuel O. Washburn, Mary Augusta Washburn, Henrietta Lyon, and Lydia Washburn were his grandchildren, the children of Abby Jane Washburn, a deceased daughter, all of full age except Lydia Washburn.

 

David Ver Planck, of Greenburgh, Attorney at Law, was appointed as Special Guardian of Lydia Washburn, a minor and one of the heirs and next of kin of Benjamin Washburn on 21 June 1869.

 

Oliver J. Washburn, the Executor, testified that he served notice to the following heirs: Mary Sarles, of Bedford, on 31 May 1869, Lydia F. Washburn, Mary A. Washburn, Lydia Washburn, and Henrietta Lyon, all of Mount Pleasant, on 3 June 1869, Isaac Washburn, and Oscar Washburn, of Mount Pleasant, on 4 June 1869, Ellen Clark, and Samuel C. Washburn, of New Utrecht, Kings Co., on 4 and 5 June 1869, and Morgan Washburn and Benjamin S. Washburn, of Yonkers, on 5 June 1869.

 

Proved by Joshua B. Washburn, of Lewisboro, and Isaiah Washburn, of East Chester, on 21 June 1869.

 

Letters of Administration granted to Oliver J. Washburn and Benjamin S. Washburn, Executors, on 21 June 1869.

 

His inventory was appraised by Benjamin Washburn and Stephen L. Washburn on 12 Aug. 1869, and totaled $28,110.78.

 

The petition for final settlement dated 7 Dec. 1874 listed the heirs as Helen Clark, of Mount Pleasant, Mary E. Sarles, of Bedford, Oscar and Isaac Washburn, of Ossining, and Morgan Washburn, Henrietta F. Lyon, Lydia B. Washburn, and Lemuel O. Washburn, of Brooklyn.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Westchester County Probate, Wills Vol. 58, p. 375-382, Letters Testamentary Vol. J, p. 78, and his estate papers in Docket #305 for 1869.

 

 

Will of Bethuel Warshburn of Cortlandt, Westchester County, New York (1818) *

        In the Name of God Amen, I Bethuel Warshburn at present of Cortlandt Town in the County of Westchester and State of New York, Yeoman, being of Sound disposing mind memory and Understanding but considering the uncertainty of this mortal life do make and publish this my last Will and Testament in manner and form following — First and principally I commend my Soul to the Almighty God who gave it and my Body I Comit to the Earth to be deciently interred at the Discretion of my Executrix herein after named and as to such worldly Estate as God of his Goodness hath been pleased to bestow upon me I give and dispose of in manner herein after mentioned —

        Imprimis I will and direct that all my just debts and Funeral charges be paid and Satisfied by my said Executrix.  Itim, it is my Will and desire that all my Estate both real and Personal of what nature or kind soever the same may be – Shall be Sold by my Said Executrix as soon as conveniently may be after my decease and turned into money which money togeather with any money that I may leave at the time of my decease (Comprehending all Outstanding Debts) after paying my debts and Funeral Expences shall be disposed of in manner following that is to say First. I give and bequeath unto my Wife Elizabeth Worshburn all money that shall remain after Paying all my just Debts & Funeral Expences so long as she remains my Widow That then the same go to my Daughter Eliza Ann Worshburn and to her Heirs and Assigns forever and I do hereby nominate and and appoint my Wife Elizabeth Washburn Executrix of this my last Will and Testament — hereby revoking all former and other Wills and Testaments by me at any Time heretofore made –

In Witness whereof I the said Bethuel Worshburn the Testator have hereunto set my hand and Seal this Seventh day of March, in the year of our Lord One Thousand Eight Hundred and Eighteen 1818

                                                                                                                                                Bethuel Worshburn                         (seal)

Signed Sealed Published and Declared by the said Testator as and for his last will and Testament in the Presence of us who have hereunto subscribed our names as Witnesses in his presence –

                Abraham T Lent

                Seamans Jacobs

                Saml Jones

 

Elizabeth Warshburn, the Executrix, petitioned for probate of the Will of Bethuel Worshburn on 11 Apr. 1835, and testified that Bethuel Warshburn died on 19 Feb. 1835 in the Town of Cortlandt. Seamans Jacobs testified on 9 June 1835 that he served notice to Thomas Roe and Eliza Ann Roe, his wife, of Kings County, more than 20 days prior to 9 May 1835. The will was proved by Seamans Jacobs on 9 May 1835, who also testified that Samuel Jones, one of the witnesses, had died in about 1826.

 

Letters of Administration were granted to Elizabeth Warshburn, the Executrix, on 13 May 1835.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Westchester County Probate, Wills Vol. Q, p. 128-135, and Letters Testamentary Vol. A, p. 223, the surname spelled either Warshburn or Worshburn.

 

 

Will of Bildad Washburn of Kingston, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1831) * 

I Bildad Washburn of Kingston, in the County of Plymouth and State of Massachusetts, being of sound mind and knowing do make this my last Will and testament in manner and form following viz.

I give and bequeath to my wife Lucy, all my Real and Personal Estate to be at her disposal during her natural life, she to pay all my lawful debts and funeral charges and expenses of Administration on my Estate &C., And to pay the following legacies.

viz: To my daughter Judith One dollar. To my son Ira one dollar. – To the heirs of my daughter Sophia one dollar. To my son Alvan one dollar. To the heirs of my son Elias one dollar. To my daughter Nancy one dollar. To my daughter Eliza one dollar. – To my son Francis one Dollar. To my daughter Mary one dollar. – To my son Jabez one dollar. To my daughter Lucy one dollar. – To my daughter Julia Ann one Dollar.

        And I do hereby appoint my wife Lucy aforesaid my Executrix to carry into effect this my last Will and testament according to the directions herein given.

                In witness whereof, I the said Bildad Washburn Testator have this twenty fifth day of August in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and thirty one, have hereunto set my hand, ___ and seal,

                                                                                                                                                Bildad Washburn             (seal)

Signed, Sealed, published and declared by the sd.

Bildad Washburn as his last will and Testament, in the pre-

sence of us: who at his request, and in his presence, have hereunto

subscribed our names as witnesses.

Abiel Washburn

Daniel Adams

Wm D. Washburn

 

Probated on 20 May 1833, proved by Daniel Adams and William D. Washburn, two of the witnesses. Letters of administration granted to Lucy Washburn, of Kingston, widow.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 74, p. 262-264, from FHL microfilm #0555262.

 

 

Will of Catharine Washburn of Milo, Yates County, New York (1874) *

In the Name of God, Amen. I Catharine Washburn of the town of Milo, County of Yates and State of New York, of the age of seventy six years, and being of sound mind and memory, do make publish and declare this my last will and testament in manner following that is to say. First, I order and direct my Executor to pay my funeral expenses out of my estate. Second, I give & bequeath the sum of Seventy five dollars to purchase and erect a monument or stone at the graves of Nathaniel Finch and myself at City Hill Cemetery. Third, I give & bequeath to my grand-daughter Katie Finch, one feather bed and one double coverlit Fourth, I give & bequeath to my three granddaughters Maggie Finch Katie Finch and Ida Finch all my wearing apparel all my house hould goods of every name and kind soever not otherwise disposed of to be divided equally between them share and share alike. Fifth, I give & bequeath to my two sons J. Embree Finch and George N. Finch the remainder of my personal estate to be divided equally between them share and share alike. Lastly, I do hereby nominate and appoint George L. Jones to be the Executor of this my last will and testament hereby revoking all former wills by me made. In witness whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and Seal this 27th day of February in the year of our Lord, 1874

                                                                                                                                                Catharine Washburn                      (seal)

The above instrument consisting of one sheet was on the date thereof, signed, sealed, published and declared by the said Catharine Washburn as and for her last will and testament in presence of us who at her request and in her presence, and in the presence of each other have subscribed our names as witnesses thereto

Hunirods[?], P.O. Yates Co. N.Y. Allie H. Embree

Dresden, Yates Co. N.Y.  Susan M. Embree

 

Proved on 14 June 1880 by Allie A. Embree of Milo, Yates County, and Susan M. Embree of Torrey, Yates County.

 

George L. Jones, of Milo, Yates County, was granted administration of the estate of Catharine Washburn on 14 June 1880.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Yates County Probate Wills Vol. M, p. 220-224, from FHL microfilm #0841320, and Letters of Administration Vol. 5, p. 434.

 

 

Will of Charles P. Washburn of Ellicottville, Cattaraugus County, New York (1853) *

In the name of God, Amen; I Charles P. Washburn of Ellicottville Cattaraugus County, New York, of the age of thirty one years and being of sound mind and memory, do make publish & declare this my last will and testament in manner following that is to say:

                I. I give and bequeathe to my father Jacob Washburn now of Proctorsville in the County of Windsor and state of Vermont, the sum of three hundred dollars ($300.) which said legacy and gift I direct and order to be paid to my said father within one year after my decease

                II. I give and bequeathe to my mother Lydia L. Powers now of Ellicottville aforesaid, the sum of One thousand dollars ($1000.) which said legacy and gift I direct and order to be paid to my said mother within one year after my decease ~

                III. I give and bequeathe to my sister Eglantine E. Moulton of Ellicottville aforesaid my Piano Forte.

                IV. I give and bequeathe to my said mother and sister, jointly and Equally all my house hold furniture.

                V. I give and bequeathe to my nephew Charles Powers Moulton son of my sister, my gold watch chain and seal, my wearing apparel and all my library books, pictures and manuscripts of whatever nature

                VI. I give and bequeath to my said sister and to her son my said nephew jointly and Equally all the rest residue and remainder of my said estate and property real and personal of whatever name.

                And I hereby nominate and appoint my friends William Samuel Johnson and Truman R. Colman to be the Executors of this my last will and testament

                In witness whereof I have here unto set my hand and seal this 26th day of January Eighteen hundred & fifty three

                                                                                                                                                Charles P. Washburn                     (seal)

The forgoing Instrument consisting of one sheet was at the date there of Signed Sealed, published and declared by the said Charles P. Washburn as and for his last will and testament in presence of us who at his request and in his presence and in presence of each other have subscribed our names as witnesses thereto.

(Witness) John P. Powers residing at Ellicottville in the County of Cattaraugus and state of New York

(Witness) Rachel C. Walker residing at Yorkshire in said County of Cattaraugus

 

Proved by John P. Powers of the town of Ellicottville in the County of Cattaraugus, and Rachel C. Walker of the town of Yorkshire in the County of Cattaraugus on 5 Apr. 1853. Approved on 5 Apr. 1853.

 

William Samuel Johnson was appointed as Executor of the Will of Charles P. Washburn on 5 Apr. 1853.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Cattaraugus County Probate Wills Vol. 2, p. 182-185, from FHL microfilm #0585022, and Letters Testamentary Vol. 2, p. 33.

 

 

Will of Charles Washburn of Goshen, Addison County, Vermont (1892) *

                I Charles Washburn of Goshen in the County of Addison and State of Vermont being weak in body, but of sound and perfect mind and memory, do make and publish this my last will and testament in manner and form following, that is to Say,

        I give to my beloved wife Maria Washburn all my property, both Real and Personal Estate of whatever name or kind to be used and possessed by her as her own for her comfortable maintainance and Support during her natural life and the right to Sell and dispose of the Same as her needs from time to time may require

Item 2nd.  Should there be value Sufficient remaining after the decease of my wife I give each of my children namely, Mary Whittaker  C. L. Washburn  Shubel H Washburn and Huldah Chamberlin Fifty Dollars each

  And I hereby constitute and appoint Andrew S Brown Executor of this my last will and Testament hereby revoking all former wills by me made

        In witness Whereof I have hereunto Set my hand and Seal this 22nd day of March A.D. 1892

                                                                                                                                                Charles Washburn                          (seal)

        Signed Sealed published and declared by the above named Charles Washburn to be his last will and testament in presence of us who who have hereunto Subscribed our names as witnesses in the presence of the testator and in the presence of one another

                                                Ida A. Capen

                                                Amy L. Capen

                                                Nathan Capen

 

Filed for Probate on 13 Aug. 1892, and proved by Nathan Capen, one of the subscribing witnesses on 5 Sept. 1892.

Hon. J M Slade

        Judge of Probate –

                                                                I decline the appointment of Executor of the last will and testament of Charles Washburn –

        Goshen Augt. 13, 1892,

                                                                Andrew S. Brown

 

Mr. D. B. Brown of Goshen, County of Addison, was appointed as Administrator with the will annexed of the Estate of Charles Washburn, late of Goshen, on 5 Sept. 1892, with C. L. Washburn of Goshen as surety.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Addison District Probate Estate Files “Estate of Charles Washburn, late of Goshen, Vermont.”

 

 

Will of Chloe T. Washburn of Rochester, Monroe County, New York (1873) *

I Chloe T. Washburn of the City of Rochester in the State of New York being feeble in body but of Sound and disposing mind memory and understanding, make publish and declare this my last Will and testament in words, manner and form following – to wit:

First                I hereby order and direct my Executor hereinafter named and appointed to pay my funeral charges and Expenses: and all of my just debts out of any funds that may first come into his hands; and to pay the Expense of a Suitable grave stone to be erected to my memory.

Second           I give and bequeath unto my daughter Mary Elizabeth Lee all of my wearing apparel, my Trunk, my gold ring, my gold Spectacles one marble top Stand, one wash Stand, Bowl & Pitcher – All my Bed Blankets Two Bed Quilts, one Comfortable, one newly pieced quilt, my Album and all of my family pictures, to be boxed and Set her by my Executor.

Third              I give and bequeath unto my daughter Kate one Coverlid – and I have heretofore helped her what I could afford –

Fourth            I give and bequeath unto my grandson Daniel Ritchie one newly pieced quilt, cover, pieced by his mother, my Daughter Sarah deceased.

Fifth               I give devise and bequeath all the rest and residue of my real Estate and personal property in Trust, to my Executor, to be by him converted into money and divide the Same into five Equal Shares or portions, one share and portion of which he shall pay over to each of my four children now living – Mary Elizabeth Lee, Kate W. Smith, George Washburne & Daniel Washburn; and the other one fifth to my two Grand sons, children of my aforesaid Daughter Sarah decd – to be equally divided between them – which he may pay over to their several Foster-Parents, for their Special use and benefit where Several receipts Shall be Sufficient vouchers therefor

Sixth       I hereby name and appoint my Son in law Alfred Smith of the City of Rochester Sole executor of this my last Will and Testament and hereby authorize and Empower him to sell grant and convey any and all real estate of which I may die Seized – and to Lease & let the Same until Sold

Witness my hand and seal this 19th day of June in the year of our Lord one thousand Eight hundred and Seventy three

                                                                                                                                                                 her

Witness                                                                                                                                  Chloe T.  x  Washburne                     (seal)

        John A. Ecker.                                                                                                                              mark

 

  Signed, sealed, published and declared by the testator to be her last Will and Testament in the presence of us, who at her request, & in her presence & in the presence of Each other have hereunto Subscribed our names as Witnesses

Jno. A. Ecker,  Fayetteville, Onon. Co. N.York

Charlie T. Blanchard,  Fayetteville, Onon. Co. N.Y.

 

Proved on 30 Aug. 1873.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Monroe County Probate Wills Vol. 16, p. 639-641, from FHL microfilm #1004300.

 

 

Will of Cyrus Washburn of Minot, Androscoggin County, Maine (1868) *

Know all men by these presents, That I Cyrus Washburn of Minot in the County of Androscoggin and State of Maine, being of sound disposing mind and memory do make and publish this my last will and testament.

1st.  I give and bequeath to my children Elizabeth A. Merrill wife of Moses C. Merrill, Maria N. Munroe wife of Noble N. Munroe, Samuel L. Washburn, and Abby D. Holbrook wife of Charles Holbrook and to my grand son Charles W. Washburn son of Cyrus Washburn Jr. deceased five dollars each to be paid to them respectively in one year after my decease.

2d.  I give and devise to my beloved wife Nancy P. Washburn all the rest and residue of my personal estate after payment of my debts and placing suitable stones at my grave.

3d.  I ordain and appoint my beloved wife Nancy P. Washburn as executrix of this my last Will and testament.

        In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal, and publish and declare this to be my last Will and testament in the presence of the witnesses named below this seventh day of August in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and sixty eight.

                                                                                                                                                Cyrus Washburn                              (seal)

Signed sealed published and declared by the said Cyrus Washburn as and for his last Will and testament in the presence of us, who have in his presence, subscribed our names as witnesses hereto.

                                                                                                                                                Stillman W. Shaw

                                                                                                                                                Clara A. Shaw

                                                                                                                                                Mary Washburn

 

Presented for probate on 16 Feb. 1869 by Nancy P. Washburn of Minot, the Executrix, and proved by Stillman W. Shaw.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Androscoggin County Probate Records Vol. 4, p. 130, from FHL microfilm #010530, and Probate of Wills Vol. 1, p. 342.

 

 

Will of Daniel Washburn of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1800) *

In the Name of God Amen.—I Daniel Washburn of Bridgwater in the County of Plymouth & Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Yeoman, being of a sound & disposing mind & memory, do make this my last will & testament. And in the first place, I commend my soul to God who gave it, and my body to the earth, to be buried with decent christian burial. And with respect to my worldly goods & estate, I dispose of the same in manner following, viz—

Imprimis—I give & bequeath unto my dearly beloved wife, Experience Washburn, and to my two daughters Lois Washburn and Sally Washburn, during their respective lives, and to the survivor or survivors of them, the joint improvement of my homestead Estate, together with my wood land adjoining the land of Ebenezer Benson, also during the life of my wife only the improvement of about twenty four acres usually called the neck.

Item—I give & bequeath unto my two daughters Lois & Sally aforesaid to them, their heirs & assigns, the one half of the homestead & wood land aforesaid, to be theirs forever, after the expiration of the aforesaid life estate.

Item—I give & bequeath unto my three daughters Zilpha Whitman the wife of Noah Whitman, Joanna Conant, the wife of Phinehas Conant & Eunice Bessee the wife of Jonah Bessee, my lot of land northerly of Samuel Leonard’s land, containing about thirty acres to be equally divided between them in manner following, viz—my said daughter Zilpha to have one third part at the northerly end, my said daughter Joanna to have one third part at the southerly end, and my said daughter Eunice to have one third part in the middle of said lot betwixt the lots of her said Sisters.

Item—I give & bequeath to my son Cornelius Washburn, my lot of wood land adjoining the lot I sold to Isaac & Nathan Lasell, also, one half of my wearing apparell & farming utensills.

Item—I give & bequeath to my son Ebenezer Washburn, one half of my wearing apparell and farming utensills.

Item—I give & bequeath to my grandson Daniel Washburn, the son of my son Ebenezer aforesaid, the one half of my homestead and wood land by Ebenezer Benson’s aforesaid, after the expiration of the life estate in the same, also after the decease of my wife the aforesaid lot of land usually called the neck, to him, his heirs & assigns forever.

Item—I order my Executor hereafter named in the first place, to pay my debts, funeral charges & expenses of settling my estate out of the remainer of my personal estate.

Item—I hereby constitute Solomon Hayward of said Bridgwater yeoman, sole Executor of this my last will & testament—Ratifying and confirming this to be my last will & testament & disallowing all wills heretofore by me made. In Testimony whereof I the said Daniel Washburn have hereunto set my hand & seal this third day of December, in the year of our Lord one thousand & eight hundred.

Signed sealed Declared & Published

by the said Daniel Washburn to be                                                                                  Daniel Washburn                             (seal)

his last will & testament in presence

of                            Beza Hayward

                                Eleazer Alden Junr

                                Jacob Conant

 

 

Presented on 12 Mar. 1801 by Solomon Hayward, the Executor, and proved by Beza Hayward, Esq., and Eleazer Alden, Junr.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 37, p. 423-424, from FHL microfilm #0550719.

 

 

Will of Daniel Washburn of Mount Pleasant, Westchester County, New York (1834) *

        I, Daniel Washburn of the town of Mount Pleasant, in the County of Westchester, and State of New York being of sound mind and memory, but being well advanced in years, and considering the uncertainty of this life, do therefore make and ordain this Instrument to be my last Will and Testament, (hereby revoking and making void all former Wills made by me.) First – I order and direct my hereinafter named and appointed Executors to sell all my Estate, whether real or personal – to collect all my dues, pay all my just debts, funeral expences and the expence of establishing this my last Will and Testament. Nextly pay to my beloved heirs the legacies hereinafter named, which I give and bequeath unto them and their heirs in manner following, viz: First – I give unto my beloved wife Philenor Washburn, the interest of fifteen hundred dollars annually during her natural life, and if the interest thus arising is not sufficient for her comfortable support, to pay unto her of the principal such amount, and at such times as her necessity may require, which said bequest I give her in lieu of her right of dower, and further it is my Will and I hereby direct that what may remain of the above named fifteen hundred dollars, at the time of the decease of my said beloved wife, and after her funeral expences are paid, therefrom, that my said Executors divide the said remainder equally among my Eight following named beloved Children or their heirs, viz: Daniel, dec’d, Amy, Elijah, John, and Levi Washburn, Phebe Lyon, Hannah Tompkins, and Mary Birdsall, I next give and bequeath to my grand-son Lott Washburn, two dollars and fifty cents, and to my deceased son Daniel’s four children, viz: Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob Washburn, and Philenor Birdsall two hundred and fifty dollars to be divided equally among them; to my son Elijah Washburn five hundred dollars; to my dec’d daughter Phebe Lyon’s three children viz:– Elizabeth, John W., and Henry Lyon two hundred and fifty dollars to be equally divided among them; to my daughter Hannah Tompkins two hundred and fifty dollars; to my son John Washburn five hundred dollars; to my daughter Mary Birdsall two hundred and fifty dollars; to my grand daughter Anna Russell two hundred and fifty dollars; to my son Levi Washburn’s three children, viz: Reuben R. Caroline and Theodore Washburn two hundred dollars to be equally divided among them; and the rest and residue of my estate of what nature or kind soever I give and bequeath to my above named Eight children, or their heirs then living, to be divided in Eight Equal parts among them, and each above named child’s portion divided equally among their children whose parent is deceased, or may then be deceased.

        Likewise I make, ordain, appoint, and hereby constitute my beloved sons Elijah Washburn and John Washburn, and my friend David R. Carpenter to be the Executors of this my Last Will and Testament.

        In witness whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and seal this 16th day of the 5th month in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and thirty four.

Signed, sealed, published and                                                                                                      his

declared to be his last Will and                                                                                        Daniel  X  Washburn                                          (seal)

Testament in the presence of                                                                                                      mark

us, who at his request, in his pres-

ence, and in the presence of of

each other have subscribed our

names as witnesses thereof

        Isaiah Washburn         }              All of the town, county

        Benjamin Washburn   }              and State above named

        Frederick Washburn   }

 

Presented for probate on 20 July 1841, and proved by Isaiah Washburn, Benjamin Washburn, and Frederick Washburn, the three witnesses.

 

Notice to appear in Surrogate Court at the house of Isaac Nelson, Jun. in Sing Sing on 20 July 1841 was sent to Phylena Washburn, the widow of Daniel Washburn, late of the town of Mount Pleasant, Elijah Washburn, John Washburn, Platt Bettes and Elizabeth his wife, and Isaac Washburn, all residing in Mount Pleasant, Jonathan Tompkins and Hannah his wife, John W. Lyon, Jonathan Birdsall and Phylena his wife and Jacob Washburn, all residing in the City and County of New York, Abraham Washburn, residing in the State of Illinois, Lot Washburn, whose place of residence is unknown, and to Marcius S. Cobb of Westchester County, Guardian ad litem of Henry Lyon, Amy Jane Birdsall, Phebe Ann Birdsall, Mary S. Birdsall, Caroline Washburn, Reuben W. Washburn, and Theodore Washburn, the only next of kin and heirs at law of the said deceased, on 29 May 1841.

 

Letters of Administration on the estate of Daniel Worshburn, late of Mount Pleasant, were granted to Elijah Worshburn, John Worshburn, and David R. Carpenter on 20 July 1841.

 

Richard Whitson and Joseph Whitson, of Mount Pleasant, were appointed to appraise the estate of Daniel Washburn on 20 July 1841. The inventory was dated 30 July 1841, but was not totaled.

 

On 23 Dec. 1848 Hiram Russell, and Anna his wife, petitioned in court for John Washburn and David R. Carpenter, Executors of the last will and testament of Daniel Washburn, who deceased sometime in April 1841, for a final settlement of the estate. Elijah Washburn, the other Executor named, had deceased sometime in June 1848. Anna was a daughter and the only child of Amy, one of the daughters of Daniel Washburn. Elizabeth, the wife of Platt Bettes, was a daughter of Phebe Lyon, and Lot Washburn was the only child of Ananias Washburn. The hearing was set for 24 Feb. 1849, and the court found that Hiram Russell, and Anna his wife, were entitled to a one eighth share in the final distribution, less court costs and a $44 advance already paid to Hiram Russell

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Westchester County Probate, Wills Vol. X, pp. 577-579, 581-587, which is a typed transcription, and Letters Testamentary Vol. C, p. 56, the typed transcription compared with the original Will in his estate papers in docket folder #78 for 1841. The name was spelled “Worshburn” in the typed transcription and the Letters of Administration, but was consistently spelled “Washburn” in the original Will.

 

 

Will of Daniel Washborn of Guildhall, Essex County, Vermont (1846) *

                                                                                In the name of God Amen

I Daniel Washborn being weak in body but of Sound And perfect mind and memory do make and publish this my last will and testament and first I commit My body to the grave and my Soul to God who gave it, To my Beloved Wife I give and Bequeath all my beds and beding together with all my houshould furniture & one cow to be Managed & disposed of by her as She may choose, To my Son Cornelius, I give and bequeath one dollar to be Paid by my Executor hereafter named) in one year from my Decease

To my son Zephaniah K. I give & bequeath one Cow, To my Daughter Betsey Kibby I give and bequeath one Cow, To my Dauter Millatiah Kilby I give & Bequeath one Cow To my Dauter Susanah Andrews, I give and bequeath one Cow, To my Son Daniel Jun I Give & bequeath all my Farming tools. To my Son William I give & Bequeath one dollar To my Granson John Stone I give & bequeath two one years old Steers all of which to be paid in one year from my Decease

And lastly as to all the rest residue and remainder of my my personal estate goods and chattels of Whatever kind which may remain after paying My Debts and Settling my estate I hereby Direct to be and remain on the farm for the occupant Daniel Washburn Jr. so long as Either my self or wife shall live & at our decease so much as is necessary to be appropriated for a suitable pair of Grave stones for my self and wife for my deceased daughter Sarah Ann and the residue to Daniel Washburn Jr.

                                                                                I do hereby constitute and Appoint Reuben W. Freeman my sole Executor to this my last Will and testament

Signed Sealed published and declared by the above Named Daniel Washborn to be his last will and testament in the presents of us who have hereunto Subscribed our names as Witnesses in the presence of the testator

                B. W Freeman                                                                                                      Daniel Washborn                         (seal)

                Henry L Watson

                Susan Howard

 

Presented for probate on 11 June 1846 by Reuben W. Freeman, and proved by Henry L. Watson on 18 Aug. 1846. Letters Testamentary were granted to Reuben W. Freeman, of Guildhall, on 18 Aug. 1846, with Geo. A. Reed of Guildhall as his surety. The Inventory of the Estate of Daniel Washburne was appraised by Daniel Howe and Daniel Keith Junior on 17 July1846, and totaled $239.13, no real estate. $28.14 in personal property was assigned to Miletiah Washburn out of the Estate of her late husband Daniel Washburn on 23 July 1846.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Essex County Probate Estate Files, 1846, Box 34.

 

 

Will of Darius Washburn of Beekman, Dutchess County, New York (1824) *

                In the name of God Amen. I Darius Washburn of Beekman Town County of Dutchess and State of New York considering the uncertainty of this mortal life and being in sound mind and memory (blessed be god for the same Do Make and publish this my last Will and Testament in the manner following (viz) First I give and bequeath unto my beloved wife Jemima Washburn one equal third part of all the Estate that I may possess at the time of my death either real leasehold or personal for her own proper use, and for the better enabling her to bring up and compleate the education of my younger children. All which I give and bequeath to her and to her heirs and assigns forever. Second whereas my Son Silas is very decreped and not able to support himself I think it my duty as far as my ability will permit to provide for his support and for this purpose I do order and direct my Executors herein after named to put out at interest or invest in land or some other fund where it will be secure and productive one Thousand dollars and the interest arrising therefrom to be applied yearly for the maintenance of this my said son Silas during his natural life and after his death the thousand dollars to be equally divided between my other six children. Third all the residue and remainder of my real leasehold and personal estate to be equally divided between my said other six children (i.e.) to my son John I give and bequeath one equal sixth part of the same to him and to his heirs and assigns forever – To my son Jacob, I give and bequeath one equal sixth part of the same to him and to his heirs and assigns forever. To my son Samuel M. I give and bequeath one equal sixth part of the same to him and to his heirs and assigns forever. To my daughter Mary Elizabeth I give and bequeath one equal sixth part of the same to her and to her heirs and assigns forever. To my son James I give and bequeath one equal sixth part of the same to him and to his heirs and assigns forever. To my daughter Judith I give and bequeath one equal sixth part of the same to her and to her heirs and assigns forever. Fourth should my Executor think it advisable and for benefit of my heirs to sell my leasehold Estate it is left to their judgment and discretion to do as they think proper and they are hereby authorised and empowered to sell and convey the same to any person or persons that they may think fit. And should it not be sold before my youngest child shall be of age to act for itself it shall then together with my real estate be sold and the avails thereof to be divided between my beloved wife and children as directed above. Fifth and Last I do hereby nominate constitute and appoint my eldest Son John Washburn my second son Jacob Washburn and Uriah Ferguson Executors to this my last Will & Testament hereby revoking all former Wills by me made. In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this Twenty ninth day of April in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and twenty four —

The word “John” in thirteenth from the bottom                                                                            Darius Washburn                            (seal)

in page the first interlined before signing

and sealing of these presents –

Signed sealed published and declared by the above named Darius Washburn to be his last Will and Testament in the presence of us who subscribed our names as witnesses in the presence of the Testator –

Samuel Meeker, Sarah Cooper, James Cooper –

 

Presented for probate on 15 Apr. 1826, and proved by James Cooper, one of the witnesses.

Letters of Administration were granted to John Washburn and Jacob Washburn, two of the Executors, on 15 Apr. 1826.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Dutchess County Probate, Liber G, p. 391-393.

 

 

Will of David Washburn of Claverack, Columbia County, New York (1853) *

                In the name of God amen. I David Washburn of the town of Claverack in the County of Columbia and State of New York being of sound mind and memory blessed be Almighty God for the same do make this my last will and testament  I give and bequeath to my beloved wife Mary all my Estate both real and personal  I do nominate and appoint my beloved Wife Mary executrix and William M Millen and Samuel Anderson executors of this my last will and testament hereby revoking all former wills by me made. In testimony whereof I hereunto set my hand and seal and Publish and declare that to be my last will and testament in presence of the Witnesses named below, this Seventeenth day of February in the Year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and fifty three.

                                                                                                                                                David Washburn                              (seal)

Signed sealed declared and published by the said David Washburn as and for his last will and testament in the presence of us who at his request and in his presence and in presence of each other have Subscribed our names as Witnesses hereto              Peter J. Anderson  Claverack Col. Co

                                                                                                                                                James Platner  Claverack Col. Co

                                                                                                                                                Michael Poucher  Claverack

 

On 27 Apr. 1853 William M Millen and Samuel Anderson, Executors named in the last Will and testament of David Washburn late of the town of Claverack petitioned for probate of the will, and did ascertain and present by satisfactory evidence who were the Widow & heirs and next of kin of the said testator and their respective residences Except the names of Lydia & Elizabeth sisters of said David Washburn whose residences cannot be ascertained after diligent inquiry, and the names and ages of the children of Abram Washburn deceased who was a brother of said testator could not be ascertained, and of said heirs & next of kin some of them appearing to be minors a Special Guardian was appointed for the children of the said Abram Washburn whose names and residences are currently unknown. Probate was set for 22 June 1853.

 

Proved by Peter J. Anderson of the town of Claverack of the town of Claverack on 16 Apr. 1853, and Michael Poucher of the town of Claverack on 22 June 1853.

 

Record of the last Will and testament of David Washburn late of the town of the town of Clavrack in the County of Columbia relating to both Real & personal estate and of the proofs and examinations relating thereto

                                                                                                                                Recorded June 22d AD 1853

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Columbia County Probate, Vol. L1, p. 117-119.

 

 

Will of Deborah Washburn of Reading, Windsor County, Vermont (1848) *

I, Deborah Washburn of Reading in the County of Windsor and State of Vermont being in infirm health, and sensible too of my liableness to sudden death, at the same time being in my own apprehension of sound mind do judge it best to make and this my last will and and testament.

                I give devise and dispose of all my real and personal estate (save what is necessary to pay the expence of my funeral) as follows.  I hereby give and bequeath unto my son Rufus Washburn all my real and personal property, that I now possess or that I may hereafter come in possession of, from any source of means whatsoever

And I hereby nominate and appoint Ammi Willard Executor of this my last will and testament in testimony whereof I hereunto set my hand and seal and publish and declare this to be my last will and testament, this 2d day of Oct 1848   Signed sealed and delivered in

presence of us.

Ammi Willard                                                                                                                       Deborah Washborn                        (seal)

Samuel Person

Huldah Bryant

 

                                W. R. Junction   June 23, 1853

                Henry Closson Esqr.

                Dear Sir

Your favour of the 22d is at hand In relation to the Executorship of Deborah Washburn. I must decline it in full, my business being such it would be impossible to give my attention to it whatever and I have thus notified Judge Dutton.

                                                                                                                                                Yours Respectfully

                                                                                                                                                                Ammi Willard

 

Rufus Washburn, of Reading, was granted administration with the will annexed of the estate of Deborah Washburn, late of Reading, on 21 June 1853, with Charles Washburn, of Reading, as surety.

Rufus Forbush and Samuel Person, of Reading, were appointed to appraise and examine the claims against the estate of Deborah Washburn, late of Reading, on 21 June 1853. The inventory was valued at $182.64, and they found no claims against the estate.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Windsor County, Vermont, Windsor District Probate File “Ward, John D. – Washburn, George,” from FHL microfilm #1183359, beginning at image 1148, online at www.FamilySearch.org.

 

 

Will of Deborah Washburn of New Castle, Westchester County, New York (1886) *

                                                                In the Name of God Amen

I Deborah Washburn of the town of New Castle in the County of Westchester and State of New York being of sound mind memory Will and understanding Do hereby make publish and declare the following to be my last will and testament hereby revoking all former wills and bequests heretofore made by me

I give devise and bequeath to my beloved husband Morgan Washburn all my Estate real and personal which I may die in any way possessed of for his own benefit and use viz my house & lands attached and in which I now reside together with all household furniture and personal Estate, whatsoever that I may have at my decease and I appoint him my sole Executor

                In Witness Whereof I hereby set my hand and seal in the presence of the witnesses whose names are hereto attached and in each others presence and acknowledged to & before them that this is my free will and act this Fourteenth (14th) day of April 1886 Eighteen hundred and Eighty six

                                                                                                                                                                 her

                                                                                                                                                Deborah  X  Washburn                       (seal)

Witnesses present                                                                                                                                mark

James O. Friel                       10 Pleasant Place Brooklyn

Charles H. Dodge Town of New Castle Chappaqua

 

Presented for probate on 1 June 1886 by Morgan Washburn, an Executor named in the last will and testament of Deborah Washburn late of the town of New Castle County of Westchester deceased, and proved by Charles H. Dodge of the town of New Castle, and James O’ Friel of the City of Brooklyn Kings County on 16 June 1886. Approved on 16 June 1886.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Westchester County Probate Wills Vol. 102, p. 304-308.

 

 

Will of Ebenezer Washburn of Springfield, Windsor County, Vermont (1826) *

        I Ebenezer Washburn of Springfield in the County of Windsor and State of Vermont being in a firm state of health, but sensible of my liableness to sudden death at the same time being in my own apprehension of sound mind, do judge it best to make and accordingly do hereby make this my last will and Testament –

        It is my will that the charges of my funeral be paid and discharged by my executor hereinafter made and appointed, and suitable Grave Stones by said Executor procured and erected for myself and my beloved wife Abigail Washburn out of my personal estate excepting Household furniture –

        I give and dispose of all my estate real and personal (save what shall be necessary for the payment of my funeral charges and the purchase and erection of the grave stones beforementioned) in the following manner –

        I give to my beloved wife Abigail Washburn the use of all my house hold furniture and house Clock during her natural life if she shall outlive me – and I also give to my said beloved wife my horse, if I should have one at my decease, to be at her own disposal –

        I give and grant to my daughters Clarissa (wife of Samuel Hardy) Experience, Nabby, Harriet, and Lois the east half of the house I now live in and the east half of the wood Lot situated northerly of the road leading from my dwelling house to Calvin Hubbards to them their heirs and assigns forever in equal shares – with this proviso, and I hereby declare it as my will, that my daughters who shall be unmarried at my decease, all or either of them shall have the use and occupancy of the same without paying, or being accountable to pay, rent therefor to those who shall not share in the use thereof, so long as they or either of them shall remain unmarried and choose to live in, and make it their house at, said dwelling house – I also give to my said Daughters aforesaid all my house hold furniture and my house clock, except the use thereof to my said beloved wife as aforesaid during her natural life to them their heirs and assigns forever in equal shares ~

        The residue and remainder of all my estate both real and personal, not herein otherwise disposed of I give and grant to my sons Ebenezer, Daniel, Seth W., & Jacob, and to my daughters Clarissa, Experience, Nabby, Harriet and Lois and to my grand son David Weston Washburn (son of Seth W. Washburn) to them their heirs and assigns forever in equal shares, respectively –

        And I do hereby nominate constitute and appoint Jacob Washburn to be Executor of this my last will and testament – hereby revoking all former wills by me heretofore made

        In testimony whereof I hereto set my hand and seal and publish and declare this to be my last will and testament this third day of April Anno Domini eighteen hundred and twenty six

Signed, sealed published                                                                                                    Ebenezer Washburn

and declared by the said

Ebenezer Washburn as his

last will and testament

in presence of us who have

hereunto subscribed our

names, as witnesses thereof

at the request and in the

presence of the said testator

and in the presence of each

other

Peter White

AG Blairelet[?]

John Meek

Saml. W. Porter

 

David W. Washburn of Springfield was granted administration of the estate of Ebenezer Washburn, late of Springfield with the will annexed on 12 Dec. 1841, with Luke Brown of Springfield as surety.

Prudence Washburn, of Springfield, widow, hereby waives the provision made for her in the will of her late husband, Ebenezer Washburn, late of Springfield, and demands her dower and an assignment of personal estate from the estate of her husband on 22 Dec. 1841.

The inventory of the estate of Ebenezer Washburn was appraised by Luke Brown and James Walker on 23 Oct. 1841, and totaled $571.93, and David W. Washburn petitioned for a license to sell the remaining personal property to pay its debts on 21 Dec. 1841.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Windsor County, Vermont, Windsor District Probate File “Ward, John D. – Washburn, George,” from FHL microfilm #1183359, beginning at image 1126, online at www.FamilySearch.org.

 

 

Will of Ebenezer B. Washburn of Andes, Delaware County, New York (1840) *

                I Ebenezer B. Washburn of the town of Andes and County of Delaware and State of New York, Being of a sound disposing mind do dispose of my worldly goods in the following manner:—

                First. I give and bequeath to my Wife Coziah the use of all my old or Creek farm and likewise the one hundred acre lot, known as lot No 7 in the 100 acre teir of Lots, with the use of all my personal property during her natural life

                I give and bequeath to my son Joel Washburn all that part of my farm lying westerly of the Tremperskill Creek the westerly Bank to be the line. If it should so be that any part of the purchase money on the part of my said lot bequeathed to my son Joel Washburn should at my decease remain unpaid, then the aforesaid Joel shall pay to my Creditors such sum or sums as shall then be actually due on such part of my said lands so devised.

                I give and bequeath to my Grandson James H. Washburn all that part of my farm lying Easterly of Tremperskill Creek including lot No 6 in the One hundred Acre teir of lots. If it should so be that any part of the purchase money on any part of my said Lot bequeathed to my Grandson James H. Washburn should at my decease remain unpaid, then the aforesaid James H. Washburn, shall pay to my Creditors such sum or sums of Money as shall then be actually due on such part of my said lands so devised.

                I give and bequeath to my daughters, Hannah, Elizabeth, Phebe Melinda and Sarah, to be equally divided between them after the decease of my said wife Coziah all my personal property except my farming utensils. Which said farming utensils I give to my Grandson James H. Washburn.

                I give and bequeath to my Daughter Phebe after the decease of my wife Coziah while she remains a Widow, the use and occupation of the house I now reside in and the Garden I now occupy for her own and Children’s residence and occupancy, but not to be let or in any other way, or any or other person to be put in possession of said house or garden but only for her Children’s residence and occupancy—

                I do hereby ordain and appoint Joel Washburn and Lemuel S. Earl to be the Executors of this my last will and Testament, And Hereby revoke all other wills heretofore made and declare this to be my last Will and Testament.

                In witness hereof I do set my hand affix my seal this first day of July 1840

                Signed and sealed in                                                                                           Ebenezer B. Washburn                  (seal)

presence of

                                Samuel McCabe Andes

                                Stephen S. McCabe            Andes

                                Margaret McCabe               Andes

 

Proved by Samuel McCabe, Stephen S. McCabe, and Margaret McCabe, all of the town of Andes in the County of Delaware on 27 Dec. 1842.

 

Joel Washburn and Lemuel S. Earl were granted Letters Testamentary on the Estate of Ebenezer B Washburn, late of the town of Andes in the County of Delaware on 27 Dec. 1842, as recorded on 6 Feb. 1843.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Delaware County Probate Will Book D, p. 255-258, from FHL microfilm #0832861, and Letters of Administration Book E, p. 213.

 

 

Will of Edward Washbond of Canaan, Columbia County, New York (1789) *

Registered the 16th day of May 1791 –

                                In the name of God Amen, I Edward Washbond of Canaan in the County of Columbia and State of New York being weake in body, but of perfect mind and memory, thanks be given unto God: calling unto mind the mortality of my body, and knowing that it is appointed for all men once to die, do make and ordain this my last will and testament; that is to say, principally and first of all I give and recommend my soul into the hands of Almighty God that gave it, and my body I recommend to the earth to be buried in decent Christian burial at the discretion of my Executor; nothing doubting but at the general resurrection I shall receive the same again by the mighty power of God. And as touching such worldly estate wherewith it hath pleased God to bless me in this life, I give demise and dispose of the same in the following manner and form – Imprimis, first, I give and bequeath to my well beloved Son Hope Washbond One Acre of Land lying on the west end of my lands which lie the north side of the road, bounding south on said Road – West on Abel Washbond, north on Pardees land and east on my own lands—

Item: I give and bequeath to my well beloved Grandsons whose names are as follows (viz) Asahel Bush Junior Edward Bush and Samuel Pettitt the sum of five shillings lawful Silver Money of the State of Nork each, to be raised and levied out of my estate – Item I give & bequeath to my well beloved Son Abel Washbond (whom I likewise constitute make and ordain the sole executor of this my last will & testament) All and singular my houshold furniture Wearing apparel even the whole of my movable estate likewise the dwelling house in which we now live and Garden ground by the same together with all my other land of which I am now the owner and possessor, (the above mentioned one acre excepted) which said Acre to my son Hope, and the remainder to my son Abel to be by them severally possess, and freely enjoyed to them and their several heirs and Assigns forever, and the said Abel Washbond is to pay & discharge funeral charges and all debts and just demands on my estate, and I do hereby utterly disallow, revoke & disannul all and every other former testaments, wills and legacies, bequests and Executors by me in any wise before named willed and bequeathed, ratifying and confirming this and no other to be my last will and testament, In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and Seal this fifth day of August in the Year of our Lord One thousand seven hundred and eighty nine —

                                                                                                                                                                his

 Edward  E  Washbond                      (seal)

                mark

Signd seald published, pronounced and declared by the said Edward Washbond as his last will and Testament in the presence of us who in his presence and in the presence of each other, have hereunto subscribed our names  –  Jesse Pardee, John Pardee, Thomas Andrews

 

Presented for probate on 10 May 1791, and proved by Jsse Parde of said County Farmer, one of the witnesses.

Letters of Administration were granted to Abel Washbond of Columbia County, the Executor, on 11 May 1791.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Columbia County Wills, Vol. A, p. 175-176.

 

 

Will of Edward P. Washburn of Kingston, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1848) *

        Know all men by these presents that I Edward P. Washburn of Kingston County of Plymouth and Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Mariner, being of a sound and disposing mind and memory, I dispose of all my Estate both Real and Personal, in the following manner, viz.

1st.    I give and bequeath to my brother Alexander H. Washburn, Ten dollars

2nd I give and bequeath to my Sister Martha Robbins Two Hundred dollars, and all my wearing apparrel.

3d      I give and bequeath to my Sister Rebbecca L. Washburn, the residue of all my Estate both Real and Personal with this reservation that if my mother Lucy Washburn should not have property of her own for her support she is to have it from the residue bequeathed to my Sister Rebecca L. Washburn

I appoint Philander Cobb sole Executor to this my last Will and Testament.   Signed sealed and delivered in presence of us and the Testator at Kingston this Twenty first day of May in the Year of our Lord Eighteen Hundred and forty Eight

                                                                                                                                                Edward P. Washburn                     (seal)

Witnesses      Melzar Whitten

                        Joshua Delano

                        Thomas Adams

 

Presented for probate on 4 December 1848, by Philander Cobb, the Executor, and proved by Melzar Whitten and Joshua Delano, two of the witnesses.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 90, p. 526-527.

 

 

Will of Edward A. Washburn of New York City, New York (1881) *

                                I, Edward A. Washburn of New York City now Rector of Calvery Church declare this to be my last Will and testament, First, – I give devise and bequeath to my wife Frances Hall Washburn and to my daughter Emeline Webster Washburn share and share alike, or the survivor of them in case either of them should die before me, all my property both real and personal and wherever situate – except as hereinafter specifically given and bequeathed, Second. I give and bequeath to my wife and daughter such books from my library as they may wish for their own use or as a remembrance of me, and I desire that they shall select therefrom freely. ~~ Third. To my old friends Rev. George Washburn of Constantinople, Rev. D. R. Brower of Westerly Rhode Island, Rev. R. D. Hitchcock of New York City,- Rev. D. W. Poor of Philadelphia, Rev. Rufus Ellis of Boston, Rev. Edwin Harwood of New-Haven, Rev. E. A. Renouf of Drewsville New Hampshire, Rev. R. S. Storrs of Brooklyn New York, Rev. Charles H. Hall of Brooklyn New York, Rev. Bennett H. Nash of Boston, Rev. J. H. Riglance of New York City – and Rev. W. D. Walker of New York City, and to my nephews Edward W. Hopkins and Frank W. Hopkins I give and bequeath as a remembrance of me my work of one or more volumes that they each for himself may select from my library – Fourth – I give and bequeath the balance of my library to the Seabury Divinity School at Faribault Minnesota as a token of my love for my old friend Bishop Winple. Fifth – I appoint my wife Frances Hall Washburn the Executrix of this my Will and in case my wife does not survive me then I appoint my daughter Emelyn Webster Washburn the Executrix thereof, and I direct that neither of them be required to give any bonds as such executrix. In Witness whereof I, Edward A. Washburn have to this my last will and testament consisting of one sheet of paper, subscribed my name and set my seal this fourteenth day of January eighteen hundred and eighty one, at New York City.

                                                                                                                                                Edwd A. Washburn                          (seal)

Subscribed by the testator in the presence of each of us and at the same time declared by him to us to be his last will and testament and thereupon we at the request of the testator and in his presence and in the presence of each other sign our names hereto as witnesses this fourteenth day of January eighteen hundred and eighty one at New York City.

John William Payne 68 Fifth Avenue, New York

Chas C. Beaman Jr. 27 East 21st St New York City

 

Presented for probate on 8 Feb. 1881 by Frances Hall Washburn, the Executrix, and proved by Charles C. Beaman Jr. of New York City, one of the witnesses on 24 Feb. 1881. Letters Testamentary were granted on 25 Feb. 1881.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from New York County Probate Vol. 282, p. 298-303.

 

 

Will of Edward Washburn of Mount Pleasant, Westchester County, New York (1881) *

                                I Edward Washburn of the town of Mount Pleasant county of Westchester do make publish and declare this my last Will and testament in manner and form following

First I hereby direct my Executors hereinafter appointed to pay all my just debts and funeral Expenses out of my estate real or personal as soon as may be conveniently done And I hereby authorize and fully Empower my said Executors to sell and dispose of all or any part of my real estate if it shall be deemed necessary by them, in order to pay all my Just debts and funeral Expenses, or the better settlement of my estate Which said sale may be either public or private as may be deemed best by my executors or the survivors of them and upon such sale or sales to make execute and deliver good and sufficient deed or deeds of conveyance for the same

Second I give and bequeath to my wife Ann Eliza the use of all the rest residue and remainder of my estate both real and personal of every kind to her own use during her natural life to be accepted and received by her in lieu of dower or right of dower, or other claims of and in my estate

Third I hereby authorize my executors, if the income of my said estate is not sufficient for the maintenance and comfort of my said wife, then to pay to her such sum as they shall deem necessary to make her comfortable during her natural life

Fourth I hereby direct my executors at the death of my wife, after paying her funeral expences and all just debts to divide what may be remaining of my estate between my nephews and nieces and the nephews and nieces of my wife share and share alike and

Lastly I hereby appoint my brother Joshua B. Washburn and his son Franklin J. Washburn of New Castle to be the executors of this my last Will and testament.

                In Witness Whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this the 19th day of August in the year of Our Lord one thousand eight hundred and eighty one

                                                                                                                                                Edward Washburn                          (seal)

Signed sealed published and declared by the testator Edward Washburn to be his last Will and Testament in the presence of us who at his request in his presence have hereunto set our names as witnesses

Geo B. Washburn   New York  47 East 29th St

Caroline Washburn  Chappaqua N.Y.

 

Joshua B. Washburn, an Executor named in the last Will and Testament of Edward Washburn, late of the Town of Mount Pleasant, petitioned for probate of the will on 3 July 1882, and he produced satisfactory evidence on 31 July 1882 that the heirs had been notified, and W. M. Skinner Jr. was appointed as Special Guardian for the minors, probate set for 1 Sept. 1882.

 

Proved by Caroline Washburn of the Town of New Castle on 31 July 1882, and George B. Washburn of the City and County of New York, on 1 Sept. 1882.

 

The Executors, Joshua B. Washburn and Franklin J. Washburn, were granted administration of the estate of Edward Washburn, late of Mt. Pleasant, on 1 Sept. 1882.

 

The final settlement approved on 12 July 1886 distributed the estate among the several nephews and nieces of Edward Washburn and his wife Ann Eliza Washburn, namely Franklin J. Washburn, Jane C. Washburn, Charles E. Washburn, Howard R. Washburn, Anna Washburn, Franklin S. Washburn as administrator for Alfred Washburn, deceased, Clara E. Washburn, Mary F. Sterrett, George F. Washburn, Reuben F. Washburn, Jane Washburn, Daniel B. Washburn, Mary Emma Cowenhoven, Lydia B. Washburn, Lemuel A. Washburn, Mary A. Washburn, Jeremiah B. Lyon as administrator for Henrietta Lyon, deceased, Edward O. Washburn, Isaiah M. Washburn, Rebecca Richards, Adelaide H. Washburn, Smith R. Washburn, Henry E. Haight, William E. Haight, Phebe Odell, Mary F. Hyatt, John E. Hyatt, Carrie Irene Pitman, Emma Louise Best, Edward Belknap, Rachel Belknap, Phebe Belknap, Mary F. Belknap, Martha Ann Orr, Gertrude Weed, Addie Waugh, Morgan Washburn, and Benjamin A. Washburn as administrator of Eugene M. Washburn, deceased. Joshua B. Washburn was appointed General Guardian of Charles E. Washburn and Howard R. Washburn, minors, Benjamin A. Washburn was appointed General Guardian of Jane Washburn, minor, and Edward O. Washburn was appointed General Guardian of Adelaide H. Washburn, Isaiah M. Washburn, and Smith R. Washburn, minors.

 

Schedule F in the estate papers gives the list of heirs, their residences, and relationships:

Franklin J. Washburn, Chappaqua, nephew

Jane C. Washburn, Chappaqua, niece

Charles E. Washburn, Chappaqua, nephew

Howard R. Washburn, Chappaqua, nephew

Anna Washburn and Franklin J. Washburn, as Administrators of Alfred Washburn, deceased, Chappaqua, nephew

Clara E. Washburn, Whitson, niece

Mary F. Sterrett, Sing Sing, niece

George F. Washburn, Everett Hotel, Jersey St., NY City, nephew

Reuben F. Washburn, Sing Sing, nephew

Jane Washburn, Sing Sing, niece

Daniel B. Washburn, Sing Sing, nephew

Mary Emma Cowenhoven, New Utrecht, L.I., niece

Lydia B. Washburn, Sing Sing, niece

Lemuel O. Washburn, Sing Sing, nephew

Mary A. Merritt, Golden Bridge, niece

Jeremiah B. Lyon as Administrator of Henrietta Lyon, deceased, 479 Green Ave, Brooklyn, niece

Edward Washburn, Huntington, L.I., nephew

Isaiah Washburn, 121 Front St, N.Y. City, nephew

Rebecca Richards, Brooklyn, niece

Addie Washburn, Huntington, L.I., niece

Smith Washburn, Huntington, L.I., nephew

Henry C. Haight, Merritts Corners, nephew

William E. Haight, 204 Third St, Jersey City, nephew

Phebe Odell, Tarrytown, niece

Mary F. Hyatt, New York, niece

John E. Hyatt, New York, nephew

Carrie Irene Kenzey, New York, niece

Emma Louise Best, New York, niece

Edward Belknap, Newburgh, nephew

Rachel Belknap, Newburgh, niece

Phebe Belknap, Newburgh, niece

Mary F. Belknap, Newburgh, niece

Martha Ann Orr, Newburgh, niece

Gertrude Weed, Newburgh, niece

Addie Waugh, Newburgh, niece

Margaret Washburn, Sing Sing, niece

Benjamin A. Washburn, as Administrator of Eugene Washburn, deceased, Sing Sing, nephew

 

 * Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Westchester County Probate, Wills Vol. 95, p. 27-33, Letters Testamentary Vol. N, p. 213, and his estate papers in Docket #350 for 1882.

 

 

Will of Edward Washburn of Fort Edward, Washington County, New York (1886) *

        I Edward Washburn of Fort Edward Washington County N.Y., I do hereby make and publish this my last Will and Testament.

        First   I give devise and bequeath unto my son Edward Washburn Jr. all of my property both real and personal in fee absolutely and forever.

        Second   I hereby nominate and appoint James A. Cheesman of Fort Edward N.Y. as the sole executor of this my last Will and Testament hereby revoking all former wills by me made.

        I direct and empower my executor above named to execute sufficient and proper deeds of my real estate to convey the same to the said Edward Washburn Jr.

In witness whereof I hereto set my hand and seal this seventh day of November A.D. 1886.

Witnesses                                                                                                                              Edward Washburn                          (seal)

Edgar Hall

Amelia E. Hall

 

                Subscribed by Edward Washburn the testator named in the foregoing will in our presence and at the time of making such subscription declared by the testator to be his last will and testament and each of us sign his name as a witness at the end of the will at the request of the testator and in his presence, and in the presence of each other.

                                                                                                                                                Dated November 7th 1886.

Edgar Hall, residing at Fort Edward N.Y.

Amelia E. Hall, residing at Fort Edward N.Y.

 

Proved by Edgar Hall and Amelia E. Hall, of Fort Edward, on 11 Nov. 1889.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Washington County Probate Wills Vol. V, p. 399-401, from FHL microfilm #0513874.

 

 

Will and Codicil of Elias H. Washburn of Sing Sing Village, Westchester County, New York (1877) *

I Elias H Washburn of the Village of Sing Sing County of Westchester State of New York mindful of the uncertainties of human life do make publish and declare this my last Will and testament in manner following

First I direct my executors hereinafter named to pay all my just debts and funeral expenses

Second I direct my executors to place a tomb stone at the grave of my daughter Emma similar to the one at her mothers grave and pay for the same out of my personal estate

Third I give devise and bequeath to my wife Caroline Washburn all my household furniture in the house now occupied by me in the Village of Sing Sing

Fourth All the rest and residue of my personal estate of every Kind and nature & whatsoever I give and devise to my Executors hereinafter named in trust to Keep the same invested upon good security and collect the interest thereon and after deducting the necessary expences of investing the same to pay one third of the interest so received by them from my personal estate to my wife Caroline Washburn as they shall receive the same for & during the term of her natural life

Fifth I direct my executors to pay to Mrs Phebe Washburn widow of my son William C Washburn two thirds of the interest received by them from my personal estate to be applied by her to the support & education of my grand children Adelia Washburn and Montrose Washburn children of my son William C Washburn until they shall severally arrive at the age of twenty one years One third belonging to each of said grand children And in case the sum so paid or any sum or sums of money hereinafter directed to be paid to the said Phebe Washburn for the education and support of my said grand children shall be misapplied or in any way improperly applied by her in the judgment of my executors then I direct my executors apply the same to the support & education of my said grand children as in their judgment shall be most beneficial to such children

Sixth After the death of my said wife the interest on the one third of my personal estate which during her life time is payable to her shall be paid to the said Phebe Washburn to be applied to the support and education of my said grand children the same as the interest on the other two thirds of my personal property provided my said grand children are not at the time twenty one years of age

Seventh I give devise and bequeath to my said grandchildren all my personal property provided they live to arrive at the age when the same is directed to be paid to them viz One fourth to be paid to them severally as they shall arrive at the age of twenty one years & one fourth when they shall severally arrive at the age of twenty five years except that the one third of my personal property shall be kept invested & the interest paid to my wife during her natural life and and shall not be divided until after her death and then between my grand children as aforesaid

Eighth If either of my said grand children should die before they become twenty one years of age or before receiving the payments as herein provided then such payments shall be made to the child or children of such deceased grand child and in case such grand child die without child or children my surviving grand child shall take all that the other would have been entitled to receive if living and in case of the death of both of my said grand children before they shall be entitled to receive the payments as herein provided without child or children I give devise & bequeath all my personal property to my brothers & their heirs forever.

Ninth I give devise & bequeath to my executors hereinafter named all my real estate in trust to collect the rents and profits thereof and after paying all taxes insurance and the necessary expenses of Keeping the same in good repair to pay one third of such rents and profits to my wife Caroline Washburn for and during the term of her natural life and the other two thirds thereof to Phebe Washburn the widow of my son William C Washburn to be applied by her to the support and education of my two grand children until they shall severally become twenty one years of age

Tenth After my grand children severally become twenty one years of age then I direct my executors to pay to each of such grand children one third the rents & profits of my real estate until the death of my wife and thereafter to pay to each of my said grand children one half the rents & profits of my said real estate for and during the term of their natural lives and in case of the death of either of my said grand children without child or children then the survivor to take all the interest of the other as herein provided

Eleventh If my wife should die before my said grand children should each become twenty one years of age then the one third of the rents and profits of my real estate that during her life was payable to my wife shall be paid to Phebe Washburn or applied to the support of my said grand children until they become twenty one years of age and then to be distributed as herein provided

Twelfth After the death of my two said grand children then I give & devise all my real estate to the child or children of my said grand children and their heirs forever

Thirteenth In case of the death of my said grand children without child or children then I give devise and bequeath all my real estate to my brothers & their heirs forever subject however to the rights of my wife as herein before provided to receive one thirds of the rents and profits of such real estate during the term of her natural life

Fourteenth the provisions herein made for my wife are to be in satisfaction her dower

Fifteenth If in the judgment of my executors it would be wise & prudent to sell my house & lot situate on the north side of the Dock Hill in the Village of Sing Sing then I hereby authorize & direct them to sell and convey the same & invest the money derived therefrom the same to be disposed of in other respects and to go as herein provided for my real estate

Sixteenth I hereby nominate and appoint Leander Fisher my brother Charles Washburn and William W Secor Executors of this my last Will and testament

In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this thirty first day of March 1877

                                                                                                                                                Elias H Washburn                           (seal)

Signed published and declared by the said testator to be his last Will and testament in presence of us who have signed our names at his request as witnesses in his presence and in presence of each other

Noah T Barnes        Sing Sing  N.Y.

Theodore Chadeayne “      “       “

 

I Elias H Washburn of the Village of Sing Sing County of Westchester & State of New York do make this codicil to my last Will above written and dated the thirty first day of March 1877

I give devise and bequeath to my wife Caroline Washburn fourteen shares of Bank stock of the First National Bank of Sing Sing of one hundred dollars each together with all dividends or premiums due or to become due at the time of my death the same to be transfered & delivered to my said wife by my executors as soon after my death as convenient and to belong to her absolutely my will is all it’s other provisions as to my wife and in all other respects to be unchanged by this codicil

In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this thirtieth day of April 1877

                                                                                                                                                Elias H Washburn                           (seal)

Published & declared by the said Elias H Washburn to be the codicil to his last Will and testament in the presence of us who have signed the same as witnesses in his presence at his request & in presence of each other

Noah T Barnes   Sing Sing  N.Y.

Theodore Chadeayne  Sing Sing  N.Y.

 

Leander Fisher, one of the Executors, petitioned for probate of the will on 30 June 1877, and Dwight S. Herrick was appointed as Special Guardian for the minor heirs under 14 years of age.

 

The Will and the Codicil were both proved by Noah T Barnes and Theodore Chadeayne of the Town of Ossining on 14 July 1877.

 

Leander Fisher and William W Secor, the executors, were granted administration of the estate of Elias H. Washburn, late of the Town of Ossining, on 15 July 1877.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Westchester County Probate, Wills Vol. 83, p. 255-267, and Letters Testamentary, Vol. L, p. 400.

 

 

Will of Elijah Washburn of Mount Pleasant, Westchester County, New York (1843) *

                Be it Remembered that I, Elijah Washburn of the Town of Mount Pleasant County of Westchester and State of New York, being weak in body but of a sound disposing mind and memory, Do make ordain and publish this my last Will and Testament in manner and form as followeth, Viz:

                I order and direct my herein after named and appointed Executors to pay all my just debts funeral expenses and the charges of establishing this my Will.

                I then give and bequeath to my wife Anne Washburn all my household Furniture beds and bedding to do with and dispose off, as she may think best. Also five hundred dollars to be hers at her disposal. And the interest of five hundred dollars more so long as she lives or as she may think proper to receive it. And then Two hundred and Fifty dollars of that sum to be paid to my son Elcana Washburn and the other Two hundred and Fifty dollars to be equally divided amongst all my Children.

                And it is hereby understood that my Wife so accepting the above Legacies, she is to relinquish all her right of Dower to my said estate. I then order and direct my Executors to sell and dispose of all my real and personal estate not before disposed off– And make an equal dividend between my five Children, Viz: Eliza Weeks, Tamer Hale, Abel Washburn, Thomas W. Washburn and Elcana Washburn.

                And lastly I authorize my executors to have the care and keeping of Tamer Hale’s money, and to pay from time to time as they shall judge will be most to her benefit and Comfort. And if any of her said share remains after her Death the residue to be equally divided amongst all her Children.

                I nominate and appoint Joseph Pierce Elcana Washburn and Moses Pierce all of Westchester County my Executors to this my last Will and Testament.

                In Witness whereof, I subscribe my hand and seal this fourteenth day of Ninth month Eighteen hundred and forty three.

And we being present have subscribed           }                                                              Elijah Washburn                              (seal)

our names as Witnesses in the pres-                 }

ence of the Testator and in the pres-                }

ence of each other

Elkanah Mead

Richard Whitson

Benjamin A. Washburn

 

Notice was given to Ann Washburn, widow of Elijah Washburn, late of Mount Pleasant, deceased, George P. Weeks, and Eliza his wife, of Rye, Abel Washburn, of North Castle, Elkanah Washburn, of Mount Pleasant, John C. Hale, and Tamer his wife, of the City and County of New York, and Thomas W. Washburn, of the City of New York, that the probate of the Will of Elijah Washburn is to be held on 22 May 1848 in White Plains on 5 May 1848. Joseph Pierce testified that he delivered the notice to Ann Washburn and Abel Washburn on 12 May 1848, and to John C. Hale and his wife on 11 May 1848. Elkanah Washburn testified that he delivered the notice to George P. Weeks and Eliza Ann Weeks on 5 May 1848.

Proved by Elkanah Mead of Westchester Co., Richard Whitson of Mount Pleasant, and Benjamin A. Washburn of Mount Pleasant on 22 May 1848.

 

Letters of Administration on the estate of Elijah Washburn were granted to Joseph Peirce and Elkanah Washburn on 22 May 1848.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Westchester County Probate, Wills Vol. 30, p. 514-521, and Letters Testamentary Vol. D, p. 190. The estate papers in the docket indexed to Elijah Washburn were actually those of John Washburn who died in 1835.

 

 

Will of Elisha Washburn of Kingston, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1830) *

        Whereas I Elisha Washburn of Kingston in Plymouth County reminded by age that my disolution may be near, yet possessed of sound mind, memory, and understanding, and being desirous that my worldly affairs should be properly arranged & settled before I am called from this world     I do hereby Express, make known and declare this my last Will and Testament in manner following to wit. –

        I give and bequeath to my beloved wife Deborah the improvement of all my Real Estate, and the use and Income of all my Personal property, so long and no longer than she shall continue unmarried after my decease, she to pay all my lawfull debts, and Funeral charges, and expences of Administration on my Estate &c.

And in case she should be in want, she shall have liberty to sell either Real or Personal property, for her comfort and support. Also after her decease or second Marriage, whichsoever may first happen, I give and bequeath to my children an equal division of both Real and Personal property.

viz. To my Daughter Mary, the heirs of my son Kimball, my son Job, my Daughter Lucy, my Daughter Sally, and my Daughter Deborah, or in case of their decease, to their heirs and assigns forever.

And I do hereby make and appoint my wife Deborah aforesaid my Executrix to see and carry into effect this my last Will and Testament, according to the discretion herein given. And after her decease I hereby make and appoint Mr Seth Drew of Kingston aforesaid my Executor to see and carry into effect an equal distribution of all remaining property among my children as aforesaid, In witness whereof I the said Elisha Washburn Testator, have this thirtieth day of June, in the year of our Lord one thousand Eight hundred and thirty, have hereunto set my hand, name and seal.

                                                                                                                                                Elisha Washburn                             (seal)

Signed, Sealed, published and declared by the said Elisha Washburn

as his last Will and Testament in the presence of us who at his request

and in his presence, have hereunto subscribed our names as witnesses

                Henry Cobb

                Hosea Lucas

                Bildad Washburn

 

        Sir — on account of my advanced age and infirmities I hereby decline the trust and responsibility of Executrix of my late husband’s Will and request that my son in law Seth Drew may be appointed to that trust.

                Kingston Augt. 9, 1839                                                                                      Deborah Washburn

 

Presented for probate on the first Tuesday of October 1839 by Seth Drew, the Executor, and proved by Henry Cobb and Hosea Lucas, two of the witnesses, Bildad Washburn being now deceased, Letters Testamentary given to Seth Drew, the Executor.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Elisha Washburn, late of Kingston, shoemaker, not dated, was appraised by George Adams, Samuel E. Cushman and Francis Drew, his real estate totaled $2310.00, including his Homestead house with the Tan yard opposite said dwelling valued at $750, and 39 acres of woodland lying near the “Continental” field valued at $1560. His personal estate was valued at $100.00. Seth Drew, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on the first Tuesday in October 1839.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 81, pp. 468-470, 470-471, from FHL microfilm #0555266.

 

 

Will of Eliza H. Washburn of Naples, Ontario County, New York (1881) *

Record of Eliza H. Washburn’s Will

I Eliza H. Washburn of Naples in the County of Ontario and State of New York being of the age of __ years and upwards and being of sound mind and memory do make publish and declare this my last Will and Testament as follows

First, I authorize empower and direct my Executors hereinafter named to sell and convey all the real estate which I shall own at my decease, and all lands and real estate which I now have in the whole or in parcels at public or private sale, and on such terms of cash or credits or both as they shall deem most beneficial to my estate. My said Executors shall hold the avails thereof to be disposed of as directed in this my Will, and until the same shall be sold and disposed of I authorize empower and direct them to lease or let the same or shares, and to collect and receive the rents and profits thereof, which are to be added to the avails of sales and disposed of as hereinafter directed.

Second, I confirm the right and title of my daughter Annis E. Jennings, wife of James Nelson Jennings to all articles of my personal property which shall be in her possession at her dwelling house, and which at this time of making this my Will are in the dwelling house of herself and husband at Penn Yan, Yates County. All such articles of personal property I have given and delivered to her. I also give and bequeath to my said daughter Annis all my clothing.

Third, All other articles of my personal property which shall be in my dwelling house at my decease <except money, accounts and securities for the payment of money> including family pictures and photographs, I give to be equally divided between my three children Annis E. Jennings, William S. Washburn and Ira T. Washburn to whom I bequeath the same, but this bequest does not include such of said articles as are hereinafter specifically otherwise bequeathed. The said articles shall be allotted to and divided between my said three children by my said daughter Annis.

Fourth, I give and bequeath my silver watch now carried by my son William S. Washburn to him during his natural life, and on his decease to my grandson William W. Washburn. I also give and bequeath to my said grand-son William W. Washburn, one bed and bedding, to be selected and allotted to him by my daughter Annie S. Jennings.

Fifth, My Executors shall sell and convert into money all the residue of my personal estate, the avails of which, together with the avails of my real estate, I dispose of as follows.

My said Executors shall in the first-place pay all my just debts-funeral charges and expenses, and the lawful expenses of selling my estate, and the nett balance remaining shall be disposed of as follows.

They shall pay to my daughter Annis E. Jennings the sum of Two Hundred Dollars, and I give and bequeath the same to her. The balance remaining shall be divided into four equal parts or shares.

I give and bequeath one of the said last named equal parts or shares to my son Ira T. Washburn.

I give and bequeath one other of the said last named equal parts or shares to my son-in-law James Nelson Jennings and my grandson William W. Washburn to be equally divided between them.

One other of said shares I give to my daughter Annis E. Jennings.

I give and bequeath the remaining share thereof to my son William S. Washburn, but this bequest to my said son William S. is on the express condition that he shall for himself, his heirs and assigns, release and convey in writing under his hand and seal, to the purchaser or purchasers of my real estate, who may purchase the same under the power of sale contained in the first clause of this my Will, the right of way across the same which I conveyed to him, in such good, lawful and iffectual manner, that such purchaser or purchasers, and their heirs and assigns, shall hold the same entirely freed from such right of way. If he shall decline or neglect to do so, the said share shall belong to, and be equally divided between my daughter Annis E. Jennings, and my son Ira T. Washburn.

Sixth, If my son Ira T. Washburn should die before my decease the bequests in this my Will to him shall belong to and be equally divided among such of his children as shall be living at the time of my decease and in that division the child or children of any deceased child shall represent their parent.

Seventh, In case my daughter Annis E. Jennings should die before my decease, all legacies and bequests in this my Will to her, shall belong to my son-in-law James Nelson Jennings to whom in that case I give and bequeath the same.

Eighth, If any of my children shall bring any debt, claim or charge against my estate for board or personal care of me, while residing with them, <excepting in case of my sickness> such debt claim or charge shall be deducted from and paid out of his or her legacy, anything herein before contained to the contrary notwithstanding, such a claim ought not to be made, and I trust will not be made, and if any of the legatees or beneficiaries of this my Will shall make any trouble or expense, or litigation about the settling of my estate <except the proper and necessary expenses of settling the same without litigation> I order and direct that all such expenses shall be paid out of the share of him or her who shall cause the same.

Lastly, I make, constitute and appoint my friend Seymour Wheeler of Naples, Ontario County, and my son-in-law James Nelson Jennings to be Executors of this my last Will and Testament hereby revoking all former Wills by me made.

In Witness Whereof I have hereto subscribed my name and affixed my seal this Twentieth day of September, 1881.

                                                                                                                                                Eliza H. Washburn          (seal)

The above instrument was at the date thereof, signed, sealed, published and declared by the said Eliza H. Washburn as and for her last Will and Testament in presence of us, who at her request, and in her presence, and in the presence of each other, have subscribed our names as witnesses thereto.

                John Hutches residing at Penn Yan, Yates Co. N.Y.

                H. Newell Smith residing at Penn Yan, Yates Co. N.Y.

 

I hereby certify the foregoing to be a true copy of the Will of Eliza H. Washburn deceased proved before me, Recorded & compared this 30th day of October 1882.

                                                                                                                                                A.P. Babcock Surrogate

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Ontario County Record of Wills, Vol. 61, 1879-1884, p. 500-503, from FHL microfilm #0834769.

 

 

Will of Ephraim Washburn of Plymouth, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1867) *

Know all men by these presents, that I Ephraim Washburn of Plymouth in the County of Plymouth and State of Massachusetts being in good health and of sound and disposing mind and memory, do make and publish this my last will and testament, hereby revoking all former wills by me at any time heretofore made.

First. I hereby constitute and appoint my wife Deborah Washburn to be sole executrix of this my last will directing my said executrix to pay all my just debts and funeral expenses, and the legacies hereinafter given, out of my estate.

Second. I devise and bequeath to my said wife Deborah Washburn, all the estate, real, personal, or mixed of which I shall die seized and possessed, or to which I shall be entitled at the time of my decease, as long as she may remain unmarried and my widow, with remainder thereof on her decease or marriage to my children and their heirs as the same would have descended had this will not been made.

                In testimony whereof, I hereunto set my hand and seal and publish and declare this to be my last will and testament in the presence of the witnesses named below this eleventh day of January in the year of our Lord eighteen hundred and sixty seven.

                                                                                                                                                Ephraim Washburn                         (seal)

The foregoing instrument was signed, sealed, published and declared by the said Ephraim Washburn as and for his last will and testament in the presence of us, who in his presence, and in the presence of each other, and at his request have subscribed our names as witnesses hereto.

                                                                                                                                                George Whiting

                                                                                                                                                A. Mason

                                                                                                                                                D. E. Damon

 

Presented for probate on 12 Jan. 1871 by Deborah Washburn of Plymouth, the Executrix, with Ellis Whiting and Ezra Leach, both of Plymouth, as sureties. Letters Testamentary were granted to Deborah Washburn, the Executrix, on 12 Jan. 1871.

 

John Harlow of Plymouth petitioned for administration with will annexed of the estate of Ephraim Washburn, late of Plymouth, on the second Monday of Dec. 1871, Deborah Washburn, the executrix, having since deceased, with D. K. Gilbert and Thomas Bearce, of Plymouth, as sureties. Letters of Administration with Will annexed were granted to John Harlow on 11 Dec. 1871.

 

The final accounting of John Harlow, the Administrator, was approved by Lucy A. Sherman, Mary Pierce, Seth Washburn, and Hannah Bearce on the second Monday of Feb. 1874.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 140, p. 135, from FHL microfilm #0556648, Vol. 124, p. 264, Vol. 120, p. 401, and Vol. 130, p. 93.

 

 

Will of George A. Washburn of Volney, Oswego County, New York (1883) *

                In the name of God Amen.

        I, George A Washburn of the Town of Volney County of Oswego and State of NewYork, being of sound mind and memory, and considering the uncertainty of this frail and Transitory life do, therefore, make, ordain publish and declare this to be my last Will and Testament. That is to say:

        First – – After all my lawful debts are paid and discharged, I give and bequeath unto my beloved wife Antoinette E. Washburn all and singular the property of which I may die possessed of whatsoever kind or nature, whether real personal or mixed and wheresoever situate to have, hold, possess and enjoy the same for and during the term of her natural life with the right to sell and dispose of the same or any part thereof and to use the avails thereof as may be necessary for her Support and maintenance =

        Second, I hereby order and direct that immediately upon the decease of my said wife all my said Estate then remaining shall be divided Equally among my children their descendants per Stirpes

        Likewise, I make Constitute and appoint my said wife Antoinette E. Washburn and my friend Morgan Van Buren Esq. of Volney to be my Executrix and Executor of this my last Will and Testament, hereby revoking all former wills by me made.

        In Witness whereof, I have hereunto subscribed my name and affixed my Seal, the fifth day of April, in the Year of our lord one thousand Eight hundred and Eighty three

                                                                                                                                                G A. Washburn                                 (seal)

The above written instrument was subscribed by the said George A. Washburn in our presence, and acknowledged by him to each of us; and he at the same time declared the above instrument, so subscribed, to be his last Will and Testament; and We, at his request, have signed our names as witnesses hereto, in his presence and in the presence of each other, and written opposite our names our respective places of residence.

                                                                                                G. W. Yates  Fulton  Oswego Co  N.Y.

                                                                                                Henry C Hour  Fulton  Oswego Co  N.Y.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Oswego County Probate, Vol. P, p. 394.

 

 

Will and Codicil of George Washburn of Philadelphia, Jefferson County, New York (1894) *

~ Will ~

   I, George Washburn, of the village of Philadelphia, Jefferson County, New York, being of sound mind and memory and considering the uncertainty of life, do make, ordain, publish and declare this to be my last Will and Testament, that is to say:

First.– I direct my executors hereinafter named to pay and discharge in full all my just debts and funeral expenses out of my personal estate other than the dairy of cows on my farm hereinafter mentioned, and in inventorying my said personal estate I direct them to include therein a policy of insurance on my life for $2000 in the Knights Templars & Masonic Life Indemnity Company, of Chicago, Ill., numbered 8459 and the moneys received on said policy I order and direct shall be used for the purpose of paying off my indebtedness if necessary and that it shall become and be a part of my personal estate, notwithstanding my wife and children are named as beneficiaries in said policy, and I direct the said Company to pay the said moneys to my executors as such, instead of to the beneficiaries named in said policy.

Second.– I give, bequeath and devise to my beloved wife, Mary Jane Washburn, for and during the term of her natural life only, my farm of about 242 acres in the town of Antwerp, in said County, with the dairy of cows now thereon, and direct her to lease or rent the same from year to year substantially as I have been doing, keep up the dairy on and from said farm, keep the buildings thereon insured, and the farm and buildings in good fair repair and condition, and the rents, issues and profits she shall receive from said farm and property, after keeping the same in repair as aforesaid,  I give and bequeath to her for her support and maintenance and the support and maintenance of our infant children until they shall respectively arrive at the age of twenty – one years or until our infant daughters shall marry or they shall be able to support themselves by their own industry.

  In case my said wife should die before our youngest child shall arrive at the age of twenty – one years, then and until that time I direct that my said farm and dairy shall continue to be leased and rented in the manner aforesaid and that the rents and profits received from the same, after keeping up said farm and the buildings thereon, shall be divided equally among my children hereinafter named share and share alike, and on the death of my said wife, if it occurs after our youngest child arrives at the age of twenty – one years, or when our youngest child shall arrive at that age if my said wife shall have sooner died, I give, bequeath and devise my said farm and the dairy that may then be thereon to my beloved children, George Herbert Washburn, Jennie M. Washburn, Luna H. Washburn, Pearl B. Washburn, Grover Washburn and Frances Washburn, their heirs and assigns forever, to be equally divided among them, share and share alike.

Third.– I also give and bequeath to my said wife my two shares of stock in the Bank of Philadelphia, my horse, carriages, cutter, robes, blankets &c., and also my Watch.

Fourth.– To my son, George Herbert Washburn, I give and bequeath my gold ring.

Fifth.– As soon as practicable after the payment of all my just debts and funeral expenses, I direct my said executors to pay lay out and expend from my personal estate, other then the dairy on my said farm, a sum not to exceed Eighteen hundred dollars ($1800.00) in the purchase of a house and lot in the village of Philadelphia or vicinity, taking the title thereto in their names as such executors, and holding the same during the life of my said wife for a home for herself and my infant children, and the house and lot so to be purchased I give, bequeath and devise to my said wife for and during the term of her natural life, for the purposes aforesaid, and from and after her death, I give, bequeath and devise the same to my said children above named, their heirs and assigns forever, to be equally divided among them share and share alike; and on the death of my said wife, I authorize and empower her surviving executor (my said son George Herbert) to sell and convey the said house and lot for its fair market value, for the purpose of dividing the same among my said children as above provided.

Sixth.– After the payment of my debts and the purchase of the house and lot mentioned in item fifth hereof, I give, and bequeath from the remainder of my personal estate, other than the dairy on my said farm, the sum of One thousand dollars ($1000) to my said son George Herbert Washburn, and the sum of Five hundred dollars ($500) to my daughter Jennie M. Wilson, if there be sufficient thereof for that purpose; and if not sufficient, then said remainder of my personal estate shall be divided between said George Herbert and said Jennie M., in proportion to the above amounts, and if there should be more than sufficient for that purpose, the surplus thereof I give and bequeath to my said wife for the support of herself and our said infant children, and whatever remains of said surplus on the death of my said wife, I give and bequeath to my said children, to be divided among them share and share alike.

Seventh.– All the rest, residue and remainder of my estate, real and personal, I give, devise and bequeath to my said wife for and during the term of her natural life, and on her death I give, devise and bequeath the same to my said children, their heirs and assigns forever, to be equally divided among them share and share alike.

Eighth.– To my said executors I give full power and authority to grant, bargain, sell and convey all the real estate of which I shall die seized, except my said farm which I have disposes of as hereinbefore provided.

Ninth.– I make, constitute and appoint my said wife, Mary Jane Washburn, and my said son George Herbert Washburn, to be the executors of this my last Will and Testament, hereby revoking all former wills by me made.

   In Witness Whereof, I have hereunto subscribed by name and affixed my seal this 5 th, day of October, 1894.

                                                                                                                                                George Washburn                           (seal)

   The above and foregoing written instrument was subscribed by the said George Washburn in our presence and acknowledged by him to each of us; and he at the same time declared the said instrument, so subscribed by him, to be his last Will and Testament, and we, at his request, have signed our names as witnesses hereto, in his presence and in the presence of each other, and written opposite our names our respective places of residence.

De Witt C. Rodenhurst, Philadelphia, N.Y.

George W. Hoverman  Philadelphia N Y

 

~ Codicil. ~

I, George Washburn, of the Village of Philadelphia, Jefferson County, New York, do make this Codicil to my last will and testament in words as follows:

  Whereas, in and by my last will and testament, dated October 5 th, 1894, I did, by the fifth item thereof, direct my executors named in said will to expend the sum of Eighteen hundred dollars ($1800.00) from my personal estate, in purchasing a house and lot in the said village, for the use of my wife and children during the term of the natural life of my said wife, and directing the disposition of said house or the proceeds to be derived therefrom after her death, and I having since the making of said will purchased a house and lot for the purposes aforesaid: Now I do hereby revoke all of the provisions contained in the said fifth item of my said will, and in lieu and instead thereof I do hereby give, devise and bequeath to my said wife, Mary Jane Washburn, the house and lot on Pearl Street in said village, recently purchased by me of Zanac La Fave, for and during the term of her natural life only, and upon her death, I direct my remaining executor named in said will, to wit: my son, George Herbert Washburn, to sell and convey the said house and lot for its fair market value, and to pay over and divide the proceeds arising from said sale equally among my children (inclusive of himself), named in said will, share and share alike, and the said proceeds, so to be derived from the sale of my said house and lot, I hereby give and bequeath to my said children to be divided equally among them share and share alike.

  In all other respects I hereby ratify and confirm my said will and testament.

  In Witness whereof, I have hereunto subscribed my name and affixed my seal this 10th, day of November, 1894.

                                                                                                                                                George Washburn                           (seal)

  The above and foregoing written instrument was subscribed by the said George Washburn in our presence and acknowledged by him to each of us; and he at the same time declared the said instrument, so subscribed by him, to be the Codicil to his last will and testament, and we, at his request, have signed our names as witnesses hereto, in his presence and in the presence of each other, and written opposite our names our respective places of residence.

De Witt C. Rodenhurst, Philadelphia, N.Y.

George W. Hoverman  Philadelphia N Y

 

Presented for probate on 28 Nov. 1894 by Mary J. Washburn, of Philadelphia, Jefferson Co., NY, the widow and one of the executors, listing his heirs as the petitioner, George H. Washburn, a son, Luna H. Washburn, a daughter, Pearl B. Washburn, a son [sic], Grover Washburn, a son, and Frances Washburn, a daughter, all residing in Philadelphia, Jefferson Co., NY, and Jennie M. Wilson, a daughter, residing in Lowville, Lewis Co., NY, all over 21 except Luna, Pearl B., Grover and Frances, who are minors, and of whom Grover and Frances are under 14 years of age. Approved 10 Dec. 1894.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Jefferson County Probate Wills Vol. 33, p. 621-626, from FHL microfilm #0892383.

 

 

Will of Gilbert Washburn of DePeyster, St. Lawrence County, New York (1892) *

In the name of God, Amen:

                I, Gilbert Washburn, of the town of DePeyster, in the County of St. Lawrence and State of New York, of the age of fifty six years, and being of sound mind and memory, do make, publish and declare this my last Will and Testament, in manner following, that is to say:–

                First. I give and bequeath unto my beloved wife, Mary, my personal estate consisting of household furniture of every description, all live stock of every kind whatsoever, all farm implements and dairy utensils – except the sum of Five Hundred Dollars, which I give to my only son, Harlon G. Washburn.

                Second. I give and devise to my beloved wife Mary, all my real estate consisting of about one hundred and eighty five acres of land more or less, situate on the State Road in the town of DePeyster, County of St. Lawrence and State of New York, between Heuvelton Vilage and DePeyster Vilage, comonly known as the Washburn farm, together with all the hereditaments and appurtenances thereunto belonging or in any wise appertaining; to have and to hold the premises above mentioned, to the said Mary Washburn, my wife, her heirs and assigns forever.

                Third. I give and devise all the rest, residue and remainder of my real estate of every name and nature whatsoever, to my said wife Mary.

                And Lastly, I give and bequeath all the rest, residue and remainder of my personal estate, goods and chattels of what nature and kind soever, to my said wife, Mary Washburn, and I hereby appoint the said Mary my wife, executrix, and my only son Harlon G. Washburn, Executor of this my last Will and Testament: hereby revoking all former wills by me made.

                In Witness Whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and seal, this second day of July in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and ninety two.

                                                                                                                                                Gilbert Washburn                            (seal)

                The above written instrument consisting of one sheet was subscribed by the said Gilbert Washburn, in our presence and acknowledged by him to each of us, and he at the same time declared the above instrument so subscribed to be his last Will and Testament, and we, at his request have signed our names as witnesses hereto, and written opposite our names our respective places of residence.

                William J. Badger, residing at DePeyster in St. Lawrence County, N.Y.

                Maggie J. Badger, residing at DePeyster, in St. Lawrence County, N.Y.

 

Presented for probate on 14 Dec. 1912 by Harlon G. Washburn and Mary Washburn, the Executors, who listed his only heirs as Harlon G. Washburn, son, and Mary Washburn, widow, of De Peyster, N.Y.

 

Harlon G. Washburn was granted Letters Testamentary on the estate of Gilbert Washburn, late of DePeyster, on 14 Dec. 1912.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from St. Lawrence County Probate Wills Vol. 45, p. 509-510, from FHL microfilm #1571564, and Letters Testamentary Vol. 18, p. 289.

 

 

Will of Hannah Washburn of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1844) *

Be it rembered that I, Hannah Washburn of Bridgewater in the County of Plymouth, State of Massachusetts, Widow, do on this fourth day of October in the Year Eighteen hundred and Forty four, make and publish this my last Will and Testament in manner following. VIZ, In the first place I give and bequeath to Edwin and Asaph Thomson, the sons of Eliab Thomson Jr., late of Halifax County aforesaid & in equal Shares So much as may remain due at my decease on a Certain Note of hand which Bradford Harlow holds holds for me against Jacob Soule of Sd Halifax to be paid to them by my executors when they Shall become Twenty one years old.

                And to my Son Joseph his Heirs and Assigns I give all the residue and remainder of my Estate both Real and Personal after my debts and expenses are paid. Lastly I give nothing to my son Josiah nor to his Children. ~  I do hereby appoint Bradford Harlow Sole Executor of this my last will and Testament.

Signed Sealed & published by the Said Hannah Washburn declareing this to be her last Will and Testament in presence of us who at her request were Called as Witnesses to the same and in her presence did hereunto Subscribe our names.

Solomon Leonard                                                                                                               Hannah Washburn                          (seal)

Huldah L. Washburn

Elizabeth B. Harlow

 

Jeremiah S. Washburn petitioned for probate of the will on 8 Mar. 1856, the Executor, Bradford Harlow, being deceased.

 

Presented for probate by Jeremiah S. Washburn, the Executor therein named having deceased, on the first Tuesday of April, 1856, and proved by Huldah L. Washburn, one of the witnesses. Letters of Administration with Will annexed were granted to Jeremiah S. Washburn, of Troy, N.Y., on 1 Apr. 1856, nobody having appeared in court to object.

No inventory was recorded.

 

*Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 98, p. 132-134, and Probate Docket #21980.

 

 

Will of Hannah B. Washburn of Ludlow, Windsor County, Vermont (1866) *

                I, Hannah B. Washburn, of Ludlow in the County of Windsor and State of Vermont, being sensible of the uncertainty of life, and at the same time being in my own apprehension of sound mind, do judge it best to make and accordingly do make this my last will and testament.

                It is my will that all my just debts and the charges of my funeral be paid and discharged by my executors hereinafter named and appointed, out of my estate, as soon as conveniently may be after my death and I leave the charges of my funeral to the direction of my said Executors,

1st           It is my will that so soon as conveniently may be, after my decease, the property which I leave shall be converted into money.

2d            That after the payment of the $500.00, the sum now due to Hannah M. Washburn, my daughter, and secured, to her, by mortgage I give and grant, unto my said daughter one half of what remains of the property, of which I may die seized, which shall be safely invested and secured to her forever.

3d            That the remaining half shall be safely invested, and secured, and the annual interest thereof, be paid towards the support of my son Reuben H. Washburn as long as he shall live, and at the death of my said son Reuben H. Washburn, it is my will that my said daughter Hannah M. Washburn, if she survive him, should have & receive the principal sum, the interest of which is thus secured to my son Reuben H. Washburn.

5th           It is my will that my personal property shall be left to the care and disposal of my said daughter, Hannah M. Washburn, subject however to those reservations, of which, I shall leave a memorandum with the will, at my decease.

6th           I give my executors full authority in the settlement of my estate to sell and dispose of any and all of my personal property, and to convey by deed or otherwise my real estate in as full and ample a manner as I could do if living –

7th           I hereby nominate and appoint my son Peter Thatcher Washburn & my son John S. Washburn to be executors, jointly and severally, of this my last will and testament, and so as that in case of the death of one of them, the survivor of them shall then be sole executor of this my said will.

        In testimony whereof I hereto set my hand and seal, and publish and declare this to be my last will and testament, this 18th day of June A.D. 1866.

                                                                                                                                                Hannah B. Washburn                    (seal)

        Signed sealed and declared by the said Hannah B. Washburn as her last will and testament, in the presence of us, who have hereunto subscribed our names as witnesses thereof, at the request and in the presence of the said testator, and in the presence of each other,

                                                                                                                                                Fredk C Robbins

                                                                                                                                                Eliza C Robbins

                                                                                                                                                Lily E A Robbins

 

John S. Washburn, of the City, County and State of New York, was appointed as Executor of the last will and testament of Hannah B. Washburn, late of Ludlow, Vermont, on 2 Oct. 1871, with Frederick C. Robbins, of Ludlow, as surety.

 

Hannah M. Washburn, of Ludlow, was appointed as administratrix de bonis non with the will of the deceased annexed of the Estate of Hannah B. Washburn, late of Ludlow, on 24 Sept. 1884, with Daniel A. Heald of Orange, NJ, as surety.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Windsor County, Vermont, Windsor District Probate File “Washburn, Hannah B. – Weston, Reuben,” from FHL microfilm #1183445, beginning at image 9, and Windsor District Probate File “Ward, John D. – Washburn, George,” from FHL microfilm #1183359, image 1095, online at www.FamilySearch.org.

 

 

Will of Hattil Washburn of Northampton, Hampshire County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1883) *

                I Hattil Washburn of Northampton, in the County of Hampshire, Commonwealth of Massachusetts, being of sound and disposing mind and memory do make publish and declare this my last will and testament in manner and form

First:

                I direct my Executor hereinafter named to pay all my just debts – funeral charges.

Second:

                To my wife Lydia A. Washburn, I give, devise and bequeath all of my estate, real, personal or mixed of which I may be entitled at the time of my decease.

Third:

                I constitute and appoint my wife Lydia A. Washburn to be my executor of this my last will and testament hereby revoking all former wills heretofore executed.

                It is further my will that the Court of Probate require no bonds or sureties of my said wife for the faithful performance of the trust by me committed to her by this instrument.

                In testimony, whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal and publish and declare this to be my last will and testament in the presence of the witnesses named below this the twenty fourth day of May in – year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and eighty-three.

                                                                                                                                                Hattil Washburn              (seal)

 

                Signed, sealed, published and declared by the said Hattil Washburn as and for his last will and testament in the presence of us who in presence of each other at his request have subscribed our names as witnesses hereunto.

                                                                                                                                                Clara I. Piper

                                                                                                                                                Abbie A. Carrington

                                                                                                                                                Carrie M. Coffin

 

Presented for probate on 5 Jan. 1886 by Lydia A. Washburn, of Northampton, the executrix therein named, and approved without any sureties.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Hampshire County Probate Vol. 66, pp. 5, 142, from FHL microfilm #1601875.

 

 

Will of Henry Washburn of Ellisburgh, Jefferson County, New York (1840) *

  In the Name of God Amen. I, Henry Washburn of Ellisburgh in the County of Jefferson and State of New York farmer do make and declare this my last will and Testament in manner and form following. First I resign my Soul into the hands of Almighty God hopeing and believeing in a remission of my sins by the merits and mediation of Jesus Christ and my body I commit to the earth to be buried at the discretion of my wife and Children with as little pomp and parade as possible and my worldly estate I give and devise as follows viz

Firstly I order and direct all my just debts funereral Expences be first paid and I charge all my personal Estate with the payment of the same

Secondly – I give and bequeath unto my beloved wife all the household property which I may die seized & possessed as her property absolute also one horse to be kept for her use during her natural life and also I direct that my said wife Elizabeth be maintained out of the property which I shall leave behind me after my decease and be provided with every thing necessary for her comfort & Convenience in Sickness and in health either in the house that I now reside in or such other place as she shall choose that She may Spend the residue of her days in peace and quietness so long as she shall live

Thirdly – I direct that my two daughters Eliza Morgina and Mary Miranda have a home at the house that I now reside in and be Supported when there in Sickness out of the property which I Shall leave behind so long as the same shall remain Single and unmarried

Fourthly  I give and bequeath unto my three daughters Triphena Ellis wife of Esquire Ellis Eliza Morgina and Mary Miranda the following viz. To Triphena Ellis the sum of Three hundred dollars in three equal anual payments from the first day of June 1841 and the interest on the same from the day of my decease. To Eliza Morgina the Sum of three hundred dollars in three equal anual payments from the first day of June 1844 and the interest on the same from the day of My decease  To Mary Miranda the sum of Three hundred dollars in three equal annual payments from the first day of June 1847 and the interest on the Same from the day of My decease and I hereby charge all my Real and personal Estate with the payment of the aforesaid Legacies and Bequests and my intention and directions above Specified and all the rest residue and remainder of all my estate and effects real and personal whatsoever and Wheresoever not herein before otherwise effectually disposed of after payment of My debts Legacies and funeral expences and other charges & deductions as aforesaid I do give devise and bequeath unto my Son Henry and to his heirs forever.

And lastly I do hereby appoint my brother Joseph Washburn my Son Henry Executors of this my last will & testament hereby revokeing all former wills by me made. In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand & Seal the Twentieth day of June in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred & forty

                                                                                                                                                Henry Washburn                             (seal)

Signed Sealed published & declared by the above named Henry Washburn to be his last will & testament in the presence of us who have hereunto Subscribed our names as witnesses in the presence of the testator

Henry Stearns – Prosper S. Lyman  Jeremiah Fields –

 

                In the matter of proving the Will of the Real and personal Estate of Henry Washburn deceased

Be it remembered that on Eighteenth day of June one thousand Eight hundred and forty one Henry Washborn of the town of Ellisburgh in the County of Jefferson and State of New York came before the said Surrogate and made and filed his petition on oath stating and thereby the said Surrogate was satisfied that Henry Washburn late an inhabitant of the town of Ellisburgh aforesaid and owning real and personal estate therein had lately died after having made and published & left his last will and testament disposing of said Estate and therein had appointed the said Henry Washborn and Joseph Washburn of Ellisburgh aforesaid executors of said will That the said Henry Washburn left the following named persons his heirs at law and next of kin whose places of residence are hereafter mentioned that is to say Elizabeth Washburn his widow & Henry Washburn and Joseph Washburn residing in Ellisburgh in the County of Jefferson aforesaid Squire Ellis & Triphena Ellis his wife residing in the town of Villenova in the County of Chataqua & State of New York and Eliza Washborn and Mary Washburn residing in Ellisburgh aforesaid Minors haveing no general guardian. The Said persons constituting all the heirs at law and next of kin of the said Henry Washborn deceased. And by said petition it was prayed that said will might be proved and recorded as a will of Real and personal Estate and that Such proceedings might be had for that purpose as were required by law and there upon the said Surrogate being satisfied of the truth of the Matters stated in said petition did on The Written Consent of George A. Gates of the town of Watertown County of Jefferson aforesaid appoint him by his order Special guardian of the Minors above named to take care of their interests in said premises and did on the day and Year aforesaid issue a citation under his hand and official Seal bearing date the day and year aforesaid directed to the Said persons respectively and to the said George A Gates as Special guardian of the minors above named stateing their said places of residence respectively that the said Henry Washburn had applied to have the said will proved as a will of Real and personal Estate and requiring them to appear before said Surrogate at his office in the Village of Watertown aforesaid on the Second day of August one thousand Eight hundred and forty one at one oClock in the afternoon to attend the probate of said will and also a Subpoena for Henry Stearns, Prosper S. Lyman and Jeremiah Feilds of the town of Ellisburgh aforesaid the Subscribing witnesses to attend at the same time and place & testify as witnesses in the premises and there upon the process thereof was continued unto the return day of said Citation August Second one thousand eight hundred and forty one at the place aforesaid at which last mentioned day and place before the said Surrogate comes the said Henry Washburn and makes it appear by affidavit and whereby the said Surrogate was satisfied that the said Citation had been duly served on all the said parties (except the said Squire Ellis & Triphena Ellis) according to law that is to say more than fifteen days before the said return day thereof and that the aforesaid persons were all the heirs at law and next of kin of the said Henry Washburn deceased they being all the persons who might by law to be served with said Citation and that their places of residence were as above stated. And thereupon the said Surrogate did adjourn the further hearing untill the Thirteenth day of October one thousand Eight hundred and forty one and did thereupon Issue a further citation under his hand & official seal stating & setting forth as above mentioned directed to the said Squire Ellis & Triphena Ellis requireing them to appear before said Surrogate at his office in the Village of Watertown in said County on the Thirteenth day of October one thousand eight hundred & forty one at one oclock P.M. at which last mentioned day & place before the said Surrogate comes the said Henry Washburn aforesaid and makes it appear by affidavit to the satisfaction of said Surrogate that the said Citation had been duly served on the said Squire Ellis & Triphena Ellis according to Law on the Tenth day of September one thousand Eight hundred and forty one more than fifteen days before the said return day –October 13~ 1841–at which day and at the place aforesaid comes the said Henry Washburn and the hearing was thereupon further adjourned to the 26 day of February one thousand eight hundred & forty two at the place aforesaid said Henry Washborn & Joseph Washburn there appearing said Surrogate did then and there proceed to hear the proofs and allegations of the parties in the premises the said will is produced and Henry Stearns Prosper S. Lyman and Jeremiah Feilds the Subscribing witnesses were duly sworn and testified as such witnesses their testimony after being reduced to writing was carefully read over to and Subscribed by them and the same was recorded as follows hereafter Whereupon the said Surrogate being satisfied by the said proofs that the said Henry Washburn deceased at the time of making the said will was of sound and disposeing mind memory and understanding of full age and not under any restraint and Competent to make a will doth order adjudge and decree that the said will be and the same is hereby proved approved established and Confirmed as a good and valid will of Real & personal Estate and that the same be recorded as such and the same was recorded on the day and year abovesaid in the book kept therefor by the said Surrogate with the proofs thereof which record follows hereafter in this Book And it is also ordered by said Surrogate that Letters Testamentary issue & they are thereupon issued by said Surrogate to the said Henry Washburn and Joseph Washburn as Executors of said Will they having first taken and Subscribed the oath required by law for that purpose which is filed with said Surrogate. The said Proofs and will follow hereafter in this record

                Witness John Clarke Surrogate this Twenty Sixth day of February one thousand Eight hundred & forty two

 

Letters of Administration of the estate of Henry Washburn late of said County were granted to Joseph Washburn and Henry Washburn, the Executors, on 26 Feb. 1842.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Jefferson County Probate Wills Vol. B, p. 395-399, and Letters of Administration Vol. A, p. 532.

 

 

Will of Ira Washburn of Gaines, Orleans County, New York (1876) *

                                                                Will of Ira Washburn.

        I, Ira Washburn farmer of the town of Gaines County of Orleans and State of New York hereby make publish and declare my last Will and Testament in words following.

        First– I have heretofore given and advanced to my son Gilbert Washburn, at various times, money and property equal in value to as much as I think is his just and equitable portion of my estate, I therefore make no further provision for him in this Will.

        Second– My present wife Malancy Washburn, posesses property in her own right to considerable amount and does not need that I should make provision for her. I therefore give and bequeath to her and to her heirs and assigns all my household furniture, to be taken and received by her in lieu and in place of all dower and thirds to which she might otherwise be entittled to receive out of my property.

        Third– All the residue and remainder of my estate that may remain after paying my just debts, funeral expenses and expenses of administration, I give devise and bequeath to my five children named as follows and to their heirs and assigns viz – To Ira C. Washburn, Calesta Ann Washburn, Ruby W. Thomas, Adelia Washburn and Gates Washburn share and share alike to them and to their heirs and assigns absolutely.

        Fourth~ My desire and wish is that my five children above named who now reside with me on my farm in Gaines should continue to reside and make their home together on said farm as long as they Shall be content to do so; and that they work and carry on said farm and pay all taxes and expenses jointly and share the net proceeds income and profit, to arise from so working said farm among themselves in proportion to what each shall have contributed to the expense of so working the farm.

        If my said five children or their representatives should be unable to agree on a division of the income and produce of said farm and real estate among themselves at any time when such income is to be divided, then a majority in number of them may select and appoint two arbitrators who will ascertain the facts and award such division of the net avails of said net income and produce to the parties entittled thereto as each shall in their judgement be entittled under this will.

        Fifth– Whenever a majority in number of my children above named to whom I have given said farm, shall think best to sell said farm and divided the proceeds according to this will, then they may notify my Executors hereinafter nominated, and said Executors may sell all or any of my real estate and divide the avails of such sale, and pay to each of my said devisees his or her share of the avails.

        And on all such sales my executors may make execute and deliver all proper deeds and conveyances to convey a good and sufficient tittle to property so sold to a purchaser or purchasers.

        Sixth– My son Ira C. Washburn and my daughter Calesta Ann Washburn are each in feeble health and they may need the care and attentions of my other children Ruby, Adelia and Gates. I desire and hope such care and attention will be so bestowed as may be needed and as the only pecuniary compensation I can provide therefor, I give and bequeath the property in this Will by me given to said Ira C. and Calesta, which may be left by either of them undisposed of, when either of them shall die, to said Ruby, Adelia and Gates or the survivors of them and their heirs & assigns equally.

        Seventh – I revoke all wills by me heretofore made & and I nominate and appoint my children viz – Ruby W. Thomas and Gates Washburn to be executors of this my last will. In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this 10th day of August 1876.

                                                                                                                                                Ira Washburn                                    (seal)

        The foregoing instrument was on the day of the date thereof signed sealed published and declared by Ira Washburn the Testator as and for his last Will and Testament in presence of each of us, and we at his request, in his presence and in presence of each other, subscribe our names hereto as witnesses.

                                John H. Leonard, Albion, N.Y.

                                Jefferson F. Leonard,          Albion, N.Y.

                                Arad Thomas,                      Albion, N.Y.

 

Presented for probate on 29 Aug. 1887 by Ruby W. Thomas.

 

Ruby W. Thomas and Gates Washburn were granted Letters Testamentary on the estate of Ira Washburn on 19 Sept. 1887.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Orleans County Probate Wills Vol. 20, p. 223-225, from FHL microfilm #0292763, and Letters Testamentary Vol. 6, p. 66.

 

 

Will of Isaac Washburn of Gorham, Ontario County, New York (1828) *

In The Name of God, Amen, I, Isaac Washburn of Gorham in the county of Ontario having through the good providence of Almighty God, attained to an advanced stage of life and admonished by the infirmities of age and ill health that the day of my departure from all earthly existence is at hand, do hereby for the settling and disposing of my worldly concerns, make, ordain and publish this my last will and testament in manner following, that is to say, First I give, [torn] and bequeath to my beloved wife Sarah, and to my beloved son John, all the real and personal property of which I shall be possessed at the time of my decease, except as herein after otherwise given or devised, to be by them jointly owned, occupied and possessed for and during the term of their natural lives, or the natural life of either of them.

Secondly, I give, devise and bequeath to my beloved daughter Mary an equal share, right, and interest in all the produce, profit, use, improvement and benefit derived or arising from the use and occupancy of the real and personal property above given and divised with each an equal share and proportion so long as they or either of them shall live, And the bequest above made to my said beloved wife Sarah and son John is hereby declared to be subject to the bequest herein made to my said beloved daughter Mary. I farther give, devise and bequeath to my said beloved wife Sarah all the household furniture of which I may be possessed at the time of my decease to be by her disposed of in such manner as she may think proper and expedient. Lastly, I do hereby give, devise and bequeath all the real and personal property of which I shall be possessed at the time of my decease and which shall remain at the decease of my said beloved wife Sarah and Son John after their decease and not before equally to all my beloved children now living and to their heirs and assigns forever. And I do hereby nominate, constitute and appoint my beloved sons Richard, Isaac, and Joshua executors of this my last will and testament. In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed my seal on the fifth day of February in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and twenty eight                his

Signed, sealed, published and declared                                                                                                           Isaac  X  Washburn         (seal)

in the presence of us, as witnesses                                                                                                                           mark

                Charles Russell

                Rodney Russell

                Chester Loomis

 

Proved on 14 Nov. 1829 by Charles Russell, Rodney Russell, and Chester Loomis.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby, from Ontario County Surrogate Office Wills and Administrations Vol. 18, p. 438-440, from FHL microfilm #0834760.

 

 

Will of Isaac Washburn of Canandaigua, Ontario County, New York (1861) *

                                                                Record of Isaac Washburn’s Will

                Know all men by these presents that I Isaac Washburn of the town of Canandaigua in the County of Ontario and State of New York Farmer do hereby make publish and ordain this my last Will and Testament in Manner and form following to wit:

                First- I Will and order that my Executors hereafter to be appointed shall pay all my debts and liabilities and funeral expenses out of my personal property.

                Second- I do hereby give, devise and bequeath unto my wife Esther Washburn all my property both Real and personal whatsoever or wheresoever the same may be for and during the term of her natural life. And after the decease of my said wife Esther I do hereby give devise and bequeath all of the aforesaid property to my daughter Phidelia R. Washburn to her and her heirs and assigns forever.

                Lastly- I do hereby appoint my said wife Esther Washburn and Henry C. Swift both of the town County and State aforesaid Executors of this my last Will and Testament hereby revoking all other Wills by me made—

                Given under my hand and Seal this 20th day of August 1861

                                                                                                                                                                           his

                                                                Isaac Washburn                                                                   Isaac   x  Washburn

                                                                                                                                                                           mark

                The foregoing instrument on the day of the date hereof was subscribed by Isaac Washburn the Testator therein named in the presence of of the undersigned The said Isaac Washburn at the time he subscribed the said instrument declared the same to be his last Will and Testament and requested us to sign our names as attesting witnesses thereto

                We accordingly sign our names as such witnesses in his presence and in presence of each other.

                T.A.  Lawrence residing at Canandaigua N.Y.

                Isaac M. Tichenor residing at Canandaigua N.Y.

                Recorded 2 Jan. 1862

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Ontario County Surrogate Court Vol. M, p. 579-580, from FHL microfilm #0834839.

 

 

Will of Israel Washburn of North Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1862) *

                                Be it remembered that I, Israel Washburn now residing in No. Bridgewater in the County of Plymouth & State of Massachusetts, do make & publish this my last Will and Testament as follows.

                                I am not wanting in affection for all my Children but as my daughter Lucy P. Howland, and my son John H. Washburn are both in prosperous circumstances, and also that my son Albert Gardner Washburn has already received more than I can leave, or than I can do for my other children, I therefore give to my wife Elizabeth Chipman Washburn (as long as she remains my widow) one half of all my real & personal estate after paying all my just debts and expenses of settling my estate.

                                After which the other half shall be divided between William Henry Washburn and Israel Dexter Washburn, one third to William H. and the other two thirds to Israel Dexter.

                                And at the death or marriage of my widow, (or if she shall not survive me) the other or remaining half share be divided, one half to William & Israel equally, & the other half equally between John, Lucy, Albert, and Ann Nason (daughter to my first wife,) provided she shall be living at the death of my widow, otherwise it shall be divided as before mentioned equally between John, Lucy and Albert, to them & their heirs and assigns forever.

                                Further I do appoint my said wife Elizabeth C. Washburn sole Executrix of this my last Will and Testament.

                                In witness whereof I have hereto set my hand and affixed my seal this eleventh day of August one thousand eight hundred and Sixty two.

In presence of us who hereto            }

set our names as witnesses.               }                                                                              Israel Washburn                              (seal)

        Simeon D. Carr

        Luther M. Morse

        Edwin F. Packard

 

Presented for probate on the fourth Monday of Nov. 1864 by Wm. H. Washburn of Acushnet, County of Bristol, the Executor named having resigned, with Elihu Pope and Jonathan Taber, both of Acushnet, as sureties. Letters Testamentary granted to Wm. H. Washburn on 28 Nov. 1864.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 105, p. 112-113, from FHL microfilm #0555647, and Vol. 114, p. 276 (272).

 

 

Will of Jacob Washburn of La Grange, Dutchess County, New York (1848) *

                I, Jacob Washburn of the town of La Grange in the County of Dutchess considering the uncertainty of this mortal life and being of sound mind and memory do make and publish this my last Will and testament in manner and form following first I order and direct that all my debts and funeral expenses be first paid out of my estate 2d. I give and bequeath to my Wife Ann, all the household furniture beds and bedding which she brought to my house at or after our marriage and being her own property at the time of such marriage. Also I give and bequeath to my said Wife Ann the sum of Fifteen Hundred dollars which I hereby declare is intended to be and is so given to her in full satisfaction and lieu of her dower right and thirds which shall be to her her heirs and assigns forever. 3rd All the rest residue and remainder of my property both real and personal of every kind name and nature, I give and bequeath to my three children Viz Morgan S. Washburn Darias Washburn and Mary Ann Washburn to be divided equally between them. And I further order and direct that my Executors hereinafter named shall have two years to dispose of my real estate and at any time within said two Years my Executors shall have power to sell and convey my real Estate either at public or private sale. And lastly I hereby constitute and approve my friend George Potter son of Joseph Potter of the town of La Grange, and my said son Morgan S. Washburn to be Executors to this my last Will and testament hereby revoking all former Wills by me made In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this third day of February One thousand eight hundred and forty eight

                                                                                                                                                Jacob Washburn                              (seal)

The above instrument of one sheet was now here subscribed by Jacob Washburn the testator in the presence of each of, and was at the same time declared by him to be his last Will and testament, and we at his request sign our names hereto as attending witnesses                Elias T. Dorland Residing in La Grange

Dutchess Co  Joseph C. Colwell residing in La Grange Dutchess Co

 

Proved by Elias T. Dorland and Joseph C. Colwell, both of the town of La Grange, on 18 Sept. 1865, the will recorded on 18 Sept. 1865.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Dutchess County Probate, Vol. W, p. 322-323.

 

 

Will of Jacob C. Washburn of Mount Pleasant, Westchester County, New York (1884) *

                                                                                                                I Jacob C. Washburn of the town of Mount Pleasant in the County of Westchester and State of New York do make publish and declare this to be my last Will and Testament —   I order and direct my Executors hereinafter named to sell and convey my real Estate wherever situated at public or private Sale within eighteen months after my decease in such part or parts as they my Executors may think best and the proceeds arising therefrom together with my personal property I order and direct that my executors shall divide as follows

I give and bequeath to the Wesleyan University of Middletown Connecticut the sum of Two thousand dollars – I give and bequeath to the Missionary Society of the Methodist Episcopal Church of the State of New York the sum of two thousand dollars – I give and bequeath to my daughter Mary Washburn Six thousand dollars to be hers for her self her heirs and assigns forever –

I give and bequeath to my four children Frances Washburn  Martha Vaneveren  Emily W. Baxter and Julia Mursick Four thousand dollars Each to be theirs for them theirs heirs and assigns forever

I give and bequeath to my two sons Stephen Olin Washburn and William W. Washburn One thousand dollars each to be theirs for them their heirs and assigns for ever  (as to the claim I have upon the drug store of my sons Stephen Olin and William W. becomes null and void at my decease and also with what money I have given them will make them equal to my four Children mentioned above)  I order and direct that my executors divide between my children my Library and my household furniture

All the rest remainder and residue of my Estate I order and direct my executors to divide equally between all the grand children that I may have at the time of my decease share and share alike to be theirs for them their heirs and assigns for ever – I order and direct that my executors shall serve without reserving any fees or commissions from my estate  I make constitute and appoint Rev Gilbert S. Gregory member of the New York Conferrence and my two sons Rev Francis Washburn and William W. Washburn Executors of this my last will and testament hereby revoking all former and other Wills by me made  In Witness Whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this 22d day of July in the year of Our Lord One thousand eight hundred and Eighty four

                                                                                                                                                Jacob C. Washburn                        (seal)

The above instrument Consisting of two sheets was at the date thereof signed sealed published and declared by the said Jacob Washburn as and for his last Will and Testament in presence of us who at his request and in his presence and in the presence of each other have subscribed our names as witnesses thereto

Israel A. Haight Chappaqua Westchester Co New York

Stephen R. Smith Chappaqua Westchester Co New York

The interlining of Rev Francis and the word other was done before the execution of this instrument

                                                                                                                                                Israel A. Haight

 

Presented for probate on 17 Sept. 1884 by William W. Washburn, one of the Executors, and proved by Stephen R. Smith, of the town of New Castle, and Israel A. Haight of the town of New Castle, on 6 Oct. 1884, none of the heirs being minors no special guardian was appointed.

 

Westchester County Letters Testamentary, Vol. O, p. 61:

Francis Washburn and William Washburn were granted Letters Testamentary on the estate of Jacob C. Washburn, late of Mount Pleasant, Westchester County, on 6 Oct. 1884.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Westchester County Probate, Wills Vol. 99, p. 119-125, and Letters Testamentary Vol. O, p. 61.

 

 

Will of James Worshburn of Warwarsing, Ulster County, New York (1812) *

        In the Name of God amen I James Worshburn of the Town of Warwarsink County of Ulster and State of New York weak in body but of sound and perfect mind and memory – Do make and publish this my last Will and Testament in manner and form-following (that is to say) I give and bequeath unto my beloved wife Juda Worshburn the use of my farm so long as she lives that is to say the younger children such as are under age shall be brought upon the farm – I do also give unto my oldest son Walter one third part of all my real estate after my wifes decease – and one third part to my second son Joseph and one third part of my said real Estate to my youngest son Robert – I also give and order my executors to give my daughter Hannah so as to be equal with what my daughter Phebe has had – and also my daughter Elizabeth to have as much as my said daughter Phebe has had and lastly that Rosana & Sally anne to have and equal share with the above named Girls – after they become of age to them the above named children their heirs and assigns forever – And Lastly all the residue and remainder of my personal Estate goods and chattles of what kind and nature soever I give the same to my beloved wife Juda Worshburn so long as she lives and after her decease to be equally divided among my named daughters – I do hereby appoint my wife Juda my Executrix together with my sons Walter & Joseph Executors of this my Last Will and Testament hereby revoking all former wills by me made In witness whereof I have hereunto Set my hand and Seal the        day of July one thousand eight hundred and twelve ~~

Signed Sealed published and declared by       }                                                              James Worshburn                            (seal)

the said named Joseph Worshburn to be his   }

Last Will and Testament in the presents of us who have hereunto set our

names as Witnesses in the presents of the Testator ~~

                 his

Frederck X Devoe

                mark

Andw S. Lefever

Robert Carpenter

 

Presented for probate on 18 Nov. 1812, and proved by Andrew S. Lefever, one of the witnesses.

Letters of Administration on the estate of James Worshburn were granted to Juda Worshburn, Executrix, and Walter Worshburn & Joseph Worshburn, Executors, on 18 Nov. 1812.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Ulster County Probate, Book D, p. 394-395.

 

 

Will of Jarvis Washburn of Peekskill, Westchester County, New York (1869) *

                                In the Name of God, Amen!

                I, Jarvis Washburn late merchant of the village of Peekskill, County of Westchester & state of New York, being of sound mind & memory and considering the uncertainty of this frail and transitory life, do therefore make ordain publish and declare this to be my last Will & Testament:

                That is to say, First, after all my lawful debts are paid and discharged, I give and bequeath, to my much respected daughter Marie G. Cairy the wife of Richard B. Cairy the house and lands lying in the Village of Fishkill in the County of Dutchess, N.Y. being all the real Estate I own in said Town & County on condition that she assume & pay off a mortgage now resting on said premises. Then after the remainder of my debts are paid and discharged I give to my four daughters Emily H. Washburn to Eliza J. Cairy the wife of Isaac Cairy to Caroline Webster the wife of John N. Webster & Naomi E. Washburn each the sum of three thousand five hundred dollars, the residue and remainder of my said Estate both real & personal I order divided equally between my said five daughters to share & share alike as my greatly respected and confidential companion deceased some years past therefore I have not the satisfaction of providing for her – I do hereby give authority to my said Executor hereafter named to sell & convey my real Estate in the village of Peekskill when he may think it is for the best interest of my heirs.

                Likewise I make constitute and appoint my son in law Isaac Cairy of the town of Fishkill in the County of Dutchess & State of New York to be Executor of this my last Will & Testament hereby revoking all former Wills by me made.

                In Witness whereof, I have hereunto subscribed my name & affixed my seal the thirteenth day of November in the year of our Lord one thousand eight and sixty nine.

                                                                                                                                                Jarvis Washburn                              (seal)

                The above written Instrument was subscribed by the said Jarvis Washburn in our presence & acknowledged by him to each of us and he at the same time declared the above instrument so subscribed to be his last Will and Testament, and we at his request have signed our names as witnesses hereto and written opposite our names our respective places of residence.

                                                Thomas A. Whitney                            Peekskill, N.Y.

                                                Silas J. Owens                                      same place

 

Isaac Cary, Executor of the will of Jarvis Washburn, late of the Town of Cortlandt, petitioned for probate of the estate on 11 Mar. 1870, and he presented evidence that the heirs had been notified on 28 Mar. 1870, none of the heirs being minors.

 

Proved by Thomas A. Whitney of the town of Cortlandt, and Silas J. Owen of the town of Cortlandt on 1 Apr. 1870.

 

Isaac Cary was granted administration of the estate of Jarvis Washburn, late of the town of Cortlandt, on 12 Apr. 1870.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Westchester County Probate, Wills Vol. 59, p. 542-547, and Letters Testamentary Vol. J, p. 172.

 

 

Will of Jesse Washburn of Mount Pleasant, Westchester County, New York (1807) *

                Be it Remembered That I Jesse Washburn of the Town of Mount Pleasant County of Westchester and State of New York, being in a weak state of health but of perfect mind and memory thanks be given to him who alone is worthy to be praised and as touching such worldly Estate wherewith it hath pleased god to bless me with in this life I give bequeath devise and dispose of the same in manner and form following.

                Imprimis I order and it is my Will that my Executors hereafter appointed first and foremost to pay my funeral charges and all my just debts out of my Estate  I give and bequeath to my wife Susannah Washburn one horse which she shall chuse out of my horses and a saddle and bridle and one Cow and one bed and bedstid one Clouse Cubord and table and a Cubord dresser one pot and Cittles and a half dozen chairs and all the puter ware belonging to the house and a looking glass and a Bible and one Cittee wheel and grate wheal I give to hur and hur heirs and assigns forever.

                And what shall then be left of my Estate I order and it is my Will that it be kept for the serport of my children until my youngest Child shall arive to the age of fourteen years and then for the hole to be sold by my Executors both Real and personal Estate and the moneys arising therefrom or thereby to be equally devided between the hole of my heirs.

                I give and bequeath unto my Children their heirs and assigns forever.

                I constitute and appoint my loving wife Susannah Washburn Executor and my brother John Washburn and Benjamin Kipp to be my Executors to this my last Will and Testament, disallowing and disannulling all other Wills and Testaments, Ratifying and confirming this and no other to be my last Will and Testament.

                Sealed with my Seal dated this second day of March in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and seven.

                Signed, Sealed published and declared to be my last Will and Testament in the presence of

                                                                                                                                                         his

                                                                                                                                                Jesse  X  Washburn                             (seal)

                                                                                                                                                        mark

Samuel Washburn, Abraham Tompkins, James Miller

 

Presented for probate on 12 Feb. 1810, and proved by Samuel Washburn, of Mount Pleasant, one of the witnesses.

 

Letters of Administration on the Will of Jesse Washburn, deceased, were granted to John Washburn and Benjamin Kipp, the Executors, on 12 Feb. 1810.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Westchester County Probate, Wills Vol. G, p. 217-219, which is a typed transcription of the original recorded will, but the original was not microfilmed, so I was not able to compare it with the original recorded copy.

 

 

Will of John Worshburn of New Castle, Westchester County, New York (1829) *

Know all men by these Presents that I John Worshburn of the town of New Castle in the County of Westchester and State of New York farmer considering the uncertainty of this mortal life and being of sound mind and memory, (blessed be Almighty God for the same) do make and publish this my last will and testament in manner and form following, (that is to Say, first I will that all my just debts and funeral charges be paid and discharged by my Executors hereinafter named  I do authorise and fully impower my Executors herein after named to sell at Public or private Sale as they may think most proper or best one lot of my land called the Saw mill lot and convey the same likewise I do authorise my Executors herein after named to sell at Publick or private sale as they may think best. all my personal or moveable estate of every description   I do give bequeath and Devise unto my Son Solomon Worshburn and to his heirs and assigns forever all the residue and Remainder of all the rest of my Lands or real estate with all the Priviledges and Appurtenances thereunto belonging or in any wise appertaining (on Condition that the said Solomon Worshburn his Executors or Administrators do pay at the end of seven Years from the date of these Presents or cause to be paid unto me John Worshburn or one of my Executors hereinafter named the just and full Sum of Two Thousand eight Hundred and Sixty one Dollars   I do give and bequeath unto Margaret my well beloved wife and at her disposal the one equal third part of all my sureties & one equal third part of the monies arising from the sale of the lot of land called the saw mill lot and one equal third part of the monies arising from the sale of my personal or moveable estate, together with the one equal third part of the above said two thousand eight Hundred and Sixty one Dollars that my Son Solomon Worshburn is to pay back out of my Homestead farm this Legacy that I do give and bequeathe unto my well beloved wife Margaret I do give it unto her in Lieu of her dower right in my farm of land or real Estate

I do give and bequeathe all the residue and Remainder of all the other two thirds of all the monies and monies arising from the Sale of the lot of land called the saw mill lot and Personal or moveable estate and the above said two Thousand eight Hundred and Sixty one Dollars to be equally divided between my ten children or their heirs (Viz) Noah Worshburn Philena Kerman Richard Worshburn William Worshburn, my Daughter Hellen and my Daughter Susannah and my Daughter Sarah and my Son Solomon Worshburn and my Daughter Deborah and my Daughter Mariann   I will if either of my above named ten children should decease before they should receive their Legacy that the heirs of the deceased Legatee Should receive the Portion of the deceased, equally divided between the children of the deceased;  I do hereby constitute and appoint my trusty friends Viz) my Son Solomon Worshburn and my Son in Law Andrew Reynolds Sole Executors of this my last will and Testament hereby revoking all former wills and confirming this my last will and Testament   In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand & Seal the twenty fourth Day of May in the Year of our Lord one thousand eight Hundred and twenty-nine —

Signed Sealed Published and declared            }

by the Testator as and for his last will                              }

and Testament in the Presence of us                                }                                                              John Worshburn                              (seal)

who at his request in his Presence and            }

in the Presence of each other have Sub-          }

scribed our names as witnesses thereto-         }

                                Benjamin Kipp

                                James S. Kipp

                                Thomas Vail

 

Andrew Reynolds, Executor of the Will of John Worshburn, late of New Castle, Westchester County, who died in New Castle on 12 Jan. 1835, applied for probate of the will on 9 Feb. 1835. Andrew Reynolds testified on 16 Mar. 1835 he had notified James Barnes and Marianne his wife, William Worshburn, Solomon Worshburn, Daniel Barnes and Ellen his wife, Susan Reynolds, and Deborah Carpenter more than 20 days prior. Benjamin Kipp testified that he had notified Philena Kerman and Sarah Ryder, being in the City of New York, more than 20 days prior to 16 Mar. 1835. Levi Judson, of Otsego, Otsego Co., New York, testified that he notified Noah Worshburn, of Plainfield, Otsego Co., NY, and Richard Washburn, of Exeter, Otsego Co., NY, on 18 Feb. 1835. Andrew Reynolds testified on 16 Mar. 1835 that all the heirs had been notified of the probate according to law.

 

The will was probated on 16 Mar. 1835, and proved by Thomas Vail, of New Castle, Benjamin Kipp, of New Castle, and James S. Kipp, of New Castle, the three witnesses.

 

Letters of Administration were granted to Andrew Reynolds and Solomon Worshburn, the Executors, on 16 Mar. 1835. The inventory of his estate was filed on 4 May 1835, and totaled $3656.96.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Westchester County Probate, Wills Vol. Q, p. 54-66, his estate papers filed under docket #84 for 1835, which was indexed in error as Elijah Washburn.

 

 

Will of John S. Washburn of New Bedford, Bristol County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1842) *

        Be it remembered that I John S. Washburn of New Bedford in the County of Bristol being weak in body but of sound mind and memory do on this fifth day of February in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and forty two make and publish this my last will & testament in manner and form following, that is to say

First, I give and bequeath to my beloved wife Desire Washburn the use and improvement of all my Estate both Real and Personal wherever the same may be found after my Just debts shall be paid, and if through sickness or infirmity my Widow shall be unable to support herself out of the improvement aforesaid, Then my will is that she sell such portions of my personal or real Estate as she may think proper in order to afford her a comfortable support, and I hereby fully authorize and impower her so to do and if she shall sell real Estate to make & execute good and sufficient Deeds therefor, And my will further is that if my Widow should decease before my Son Stephen and Daughter Nancy arrive to lawful age then that the said Stephen and Nancy should have the same improvement herein given to my Widow (excepting however the right to sell any portion of my Estate)

Secondly, My will is that at the decease of my Widow and after my two Children Stephen & Nancy as aforesaid shall arrive to lawful age that all my Estate both real and personal be equally divided among all my Children as an absolute Estate to them their heirs and assigns forever.

Lastly, I do hereby appoint and Constitute Alfred Nye Sole Executor of this my last will & testament. In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal the day & year within written.

                                                                                                                                                John S. Washburn

Signed, sealed, pronounced

and declared as and for his

last will & testament in the

presence of us who at his

request and in his presence

and the presence of each other

have hereunto set our names

as witnesses to the same

Jonathan Danforth

William Spooner

Seth Howard Jr.

                                                                                                                                June 7, 1842, approved

 

The will was presented in court by Alfred Nye on 5 April 1842, and proved on 7 June 1842 by Jonathan Danforth, William Spooner and Seth Howard Jr.

 

The bond of Alfred Nye, executor of the will of John S. Washburn, was dated 7 June 1842, with Cyrus E. Clark and Hananaih C. Wing all of Fairhaven as sureties.

 

William Spooner and William Hathaway of New Bedford, and Alden Spooner of Fairhaven were appointed to appraise the estate of John S. Washburn of New Bedford on 28 April 1842. The real estate was valued at $1425, including the homestead at $1200 and a lot in Weston Town at $200. His personal estate was valued at $718.50. Alfred Nye, executor, made oath to the inventory on 7 June 1842.

 

The accounting of Alfred Nye, executor of the estate of John S. Washburn, was dated 5 Feb. 1850, and the heirs at law of John S. Washburn signed their agreement to the accounting:

William Washburn

James Washburn

Sarah Hathaway

Nancy Washburn

Betsey D. Fuller

Reuben Washburn

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from the Bristol County Probate File “John S. Washburn, Taunton, 1842,” from FHL microfilm #0577879, the will and inventory recorded in Bristol County Probate Vol. 84, pp. 156, 177.

 

 

Will of John Washburn of Mount Pleasant, Westchester County, New York (1862) *

                                KNOW ALL MEN BY THESE PRESENTS,

                That I, John Washburn of the Town of Mount Pleasant in the County of Westchester and State of New York, being of sound mind and memory do make declare and publish this my last Will & Testament, in manner as follows, viz:

                First.  I hereby order my Executors hereinafter named to sell all my lands and tenements, stock & farming utensils and divide the proceeds of such sales after paying the just claims against my Estate; between my sons Benjamin Washburn Frederick Washburn, James E. Washburn, my daughters Amy Jane Sniffen Caroline Kipp and my daughter in law Emma Washburn equally share and share alike.

                Second.  I hereby request my Executors to divide all my household furniture and wearing apparel between the above mentioned heirs without sale so that each one shall have an equal share in value as near as possible.

                Third.  If I should at the time of my decease be possessed of money or other property not before mentioned it is my will that all shall be divided equally between the above mentioned heirs.

                And Lastly.  I hereby nominate and appoint my sons Benjamin & Frederick Washburn to be the Executors of this my last Will and Testament hereby revoking all former Wills by me made.

                IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, I hereunto set my hand and seal and publish and decree this to be my last Will and Testament in presence of the witnesses named below this 25th day of December in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and sixty two

                                                                                                                                                John Washburn                (seal)

                Signed sealed declared and published by the said John Washburn as & for his last Will & Testament in presence of us who at his request and in his presence & in the presence of each other have subscribed our names as witnesses thereto.

                                John H. Whitson

                                Richard P. Whitson

 

Benjamin Washburn, of Mount Pleasant, petitioned for probate of the will of John Washburn, late of Mount Pleasant, who departed this life on 24 Dec. 1868, on 16 June 1869. The heirs are listed in the petition as the petitioner, residing in the town of Mount Pleasant, Emma J. Sniffen residing in the town of North Castle, Frederick Washburn residing in the town of Jersey City, State of New Jersey, James E. Washburn, John C. Washburn, and Caroline Kipp, severally residing in the City of Brooklyn, Kings County, New York, his children and only heirs at law and next of kin, all of full age.

 

We the undersigned the children and only next of kin and heirs at law of John Washburn late of the Town of Mount Pleasant deceased do hereby waive the assix and service upon us respectively of a citation to allow before the Surrogate of the County of Westchester upon the probate of the last will and testament of the said deceased bearing date the 26th day of December 1862 and we do hereby consent that the Surrogate proceed to the immediate examination of the witnesses to the said will and admit the said will to probate without further notice to us.

Dated May 10th 1869

                                                                                                                                Benjamin Washburn

                                                                                                                                Frederick Washburn

                                                                                                                                James E. Washburn

                                                                                                                                John C. Washburn

                                                                                                                                Emma J. Sniffen

                                                                                                                                Caroline Kipp

 

Proved on 16 June 1869 by Richard P. Whitson, of Ossining, and John H. Whitson, of Ossining, the two witnesses.

Letters of Administration were granted to Benjamin Washburn, the Executor, on 16 June 1869.

 

Letters of Administration on the estate of John Washburn, late of Mount Pleasant, granted to Benjamin Washburn, the Executor on 16 June 1869.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Westchester County Probate, Wills Vol. 59, p. 268-274, Letters Testamentary Vol. J, p. 69, and his estate papers in Docket #306 for 1869.

 

 

Will of John Washburn of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1868) *

    Know all men by these Presents that I John Washburn of Bridgewater in the County of Plymouth and Commonwealth of Massachusetts, being of sound mind, and memory, do hereby make, publish and declare, this as, and for, my last Will and Testament, hereby revoking all former Wills by me made

    First, I give and bequeath unto my brother Nahum Washburn of Bridgewater and Marcia S. Masters my Sister the wife of Alonzo Masters of Roxbury, to each the sum of Five Hundred Dollars

    Second, I give and bequeath unto my friend John Lewis Washburn of Halifax the sum of Five Hundred Dollars,

Third I give and bequeath unto my Brother Eli Washburn of Bridgewater all the residue of my property and estate, of which I shall die seized or possessed, after the payment of my just debts, and the aforesaid legacies, from the property he the said Eli Washburn has received. I desire him to pay to my Son John the sum of One dollar. –

I hereby constitute, and appoint, my Brother Eli Washburn my executor, to this my last Will and Testament,

In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal, this Eighteenth day, of July, One Thousand Eight hundred and Sixty-Eight.

                                                                                                                                                John Washburn                                (seal)

Signed, Sealed published, and declared, by the said John Washburn to be his last Will and Testament in the presence of us, who at his request & in his presence have hereto set our hands as witnesses.

                                                                                                                                                Samuel Alden

                                                                                                                                                Stephen Harlow

                                                                                                                                                Nahum W. Cushman

 

Presented for probate on the second Monday of Oct. 1868 by Eli Washburn, of Bridgewater, the Executor, with John Lewis Washburn and Nahum W. Cushman, both of Halifax, as sureties. Letters Testamentary granted to Eli Washburn of Bridgewater on 12 Oct. 1868.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Docket #22021, recorded in Vol. 106, p. 218, from FHL microfilm #0555647, and Vol. 124, p. 317.

 

 

Will of John Washburn of Macomb, St. Lawrence County, New York (1902) *

In the Name of God, Amen:

                I, John Washburn of the town of Macomb, St. Lawrence County, N.Y., being of sound mind and memory, and considering the uncertainty of this frail and transitory life, do therefore make, ordain, publish and declare this to be my last Will and Testament, that is to say:

                First. After all my lawful debts are paid and discharges, I give and bequeath to my son Loren A. Washburn, all my real and personal property of every name and nature whatsoever.

                I have made a former Will in which I gave, devised and bequeathed part of my estate to my daughter Emma, but since the making of said will I have paid her what I consider should be her share and it is my intention that she not take under this Will and Testament.

                Likewise, I make, constitute and appoint Loren A. Washburn to be the executor of this my last Will and Testament: hereby revoking all former wills by me made.

                In Witness Whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and subscribed my name and affixed my seal the 11th day of November in the year of our Lord one thousand nine hundred and two.

                                                                                                                                                John Washburn                                (seal)

                The above partly written and printed instrument was subscribed by the said John Washburn in our presence and acknowledged by him to each of us; and he at the same time declared the above instrument so subscribed to be his last Will and Testament, and we at his request have signed our names as witnesses hereto, in his presence and in the presence of each other and written opposite our names our respective places of residence.

                Warren W. Harvey, Gouverneur, N.Y.

                Gilbert E. Hutton, Gouverneur, N.Y.

 

Presented for probate on 20 Nov. 1909 by Loren A. Washburn, the Executor, who listed his only heirs as Loren A. Washburn and Emma Finley of Macomb, N.Y., and proved by Warren W. Harvey and Gilbert E. Hutton, the witnesses.

 

Loren A. Washburn was granted Letters Testamentary on the estate of John Washburn, late of Macomb, on 1 Jan. 1910.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from St. Lawrence County Probate Wills Vol. 42, pp. 301-302, 304, from FHL microfilm #1571188, and Letters Testamentary Vol. 17, p. 97.

 

 

Will of Joseph Washburn of Ellisburg, Jefferson County, New York (1847) *

The last will and testament of Joseph Washburn of the town of Ellisburgh in the County of Jefferson and State of New York (Farmer)  I Joseph Washburn considering the uncertainty of this mortal life and being of sound mind and memory (blessed be almighty God for the same) do make and publish this my last Will and testament in manner and form following (viz) First I assign my soul into the hands of Almighty God, hoping and believing in a remission of my sins through the merits and mediation of Jesus Christ, and my body I commit to the Earth to be buried at the discretion of my wife and children and with as little pomp and parade as decency will permit and my worldly Estate I bequeath as follows

2d I give, devise and bequeath unto my beloved wife Tryphenia all the household furniture which I shall own at my decease to be at her Entire control and disposal as she shall think proper –

3d I give, devise, and bequeath unto my said wife so long as she shall remain my Widow the rent, and profit, of all those certain pieces or parcels of land situate lying and being in the town of Ellisburgh in the County of Jefferson and State of New York, being part of Lots Nos 76, 93 and No 20 in Boune and Eddy tract in said Town and all described as follows (viz) The first piece being a part of said lot No 93 and Beginning at a Cedar Post in the fence at the South East corner of a piece of Land on said Lot No 93 owned and occupied by Sanford B. Holley, Then as southerly along the Post & board fence as now standing to the centre of the road leading from Ellis Village to the landing (so called) Thence south sixty six degrees forty five minutes west along the centre of said road to the East line of Ezra Stearns land Then northerly and Easterly and again northerly on the East line of said Stearn’s land to Land owned and occupied by said Holley to a Post and Board fence Thence Easterly on said Holleys line and on the line of said Post and Board fence to the place of Beginning containing fourteen acres of Land be the same more or less. The second piece being a part of said Lot No 76, and beginning in the west line of said Lot No 76, and in the centre of the aforesaid road, Thence north sixty six degrees forty five minutes East along the centre of said road Eighty seven links to a Stake, Thence south twenty Eight degrees forty five minutes East on the line of the Post and board fence separating the piece of land formerly occupied by Dr. Alfred Ely from the residue of the piece of land lying East of the Meeting House formerly belonging to the heirs of Jonathan Russell deceased to the centre of the south Branch of Big Sandy creek. Thence down the centre of said creek as it winds and turns to the west line of said lot No. 76. Thence northerly on the west line of said Lot No 76 to the place of Beginning containing six acres of land being the same more or less. The third piece being part of said lot No 76 and 83 and is described as follows (Viz) Bounded on the East by the centre of the road leading past the dwelling House of Andrew Scott in said Lot No 76, on the north by land owned by said Scott on the west by the centre of said Creek and in the South by the north line of a piece of Land deeded Silas S. and Joseph B. Washburn by deed bearing Even date herewith, containing thirteen acres and thirty five hundredths of Land be the same more or less. The fourth piece being a part of said lot No 20 in said Boune and Eddy Tract in said Town, being twenty acres to be taken from the west side of a piece of Land which I purchased of William Bell by deed bearing date the tenth of March 1838 reference being had to said deed for a discription thereof by a line running parallel with the west line of said lot from the north to the south lines of the same.

4th I give devise and bequeath unto my Daughter Elizabeth Caroline all those two certain pieces or parcels of Land situate lying and being in said Town of Ellisburgh and being parts of said Lot No 76 and No 20 in Boune and Eddy Tract, in said Town and are described as follows (Viz) The first piece being a part of said Lot No 76, and Beginning in the centre of the road leading from Ellis Village to the Landing (so called) and at the corner of a piece of Land formerly occupied by said Ely and thence north sixty six degrees forty five minutes East along the centre of said road two chains and forty five links to a Stake, Thence south twenty Eight degrees forty five minutes East fifty six links to the corner of the meeting House Common Lot (so called). Thence north sixty three degrees thirty Minutes East four chains and fifty one links to the corner of a piece of land on said Lot No 76 owned by Henry S. Field. Thence south twenty Eight degrees forty five minutes East on said Fields line fifteen chains seventy three links to the centre of said creek. Thence down the centre of said creek as it winds and turns to the corner of said piece formerly occupied by said Ely. Thence north twenty Eight degrees forty five minutes west on the line of said piece formerly occupied by said Ely & the place of Beginning containing ten acres of Land Exclusive of Burying ground the same being Excepted. The second piece being a part of said Lot No 20 in said Boune and Eddy Tract and being the residue of said piece of Land which I purchased of said Bell after deducting twenty acres on the East side of said piece deeded the said Silas S. and Prosper B. Washburn and twenty acres on the west side of said piece given to my said Wife during and so long as she shall continue my widow and containing ten acres of land; To Have and to hold all and singular the above described two pieces of Land unto the said Elizabeth Caroline her heirs Legal representatives and assigns forever –

5th I give devise and bequeath unto my said Daughter Elizabeth Caroline or to her legal representatives, the sum of one hundred dollars within five years from my decease – The above two pieces of land given to my said Daughter Elizabeth Caroline as aforesaid together with the aforesaid sum of one hundred dollars is over and above all such sums of money or personal property as I have given to my said Daughter previous to the date hereof –

6th I give devise and bequeath unto my son Silas S. or to his legal representatives the sum of five dollars within two years from the day of my decease being over and above all such sum or sums of money or personal or real Estate as I have given to my said son on or previous to the date hereof –

7th I give devise and bequeath unto my Daughter Hannah Orvilla or her legal representative the sum of six hundred dollars as follows (Viz) one hundred dollars in two years, one hundred dollars in three years, one hundred dollars in four years – one hundred dollars in six years, one hundred dollars in seven years, and one hundred dollars in nine years from the first day of April next, with the interest on the last payment from the first day of April Eighteen hundred and fifty four and provided that I should be living at the time specified for the first payment aforesaid then said payments are postponed and payable as follows one hundred dollars in one year; one hundred dollars in two years, one hundred dollars in three years, one hundred dollars in four years, one hundred dollars in Six years, one hundred dollars in Eight years from the day of my decease with the interest in last payment for one year – The above sums given to my said Daughter last aforesaid, being over and above all such sum or sums of money or personal property as I have given to my said Daughter previous to the date hereof –

8th I give devise and bequeath unto my son Prosper B. or his legal representatives, the sum of five dollars within two years from the day of My decease – Being over and above all such sum or sums of money or personal or real Estate as I have given to my said son on or previous to the date hereof

9th I give devise and bequeath to my Daughter Harriet Emily or her legal representatives the sum of six hundred dollars as follows (viz) one hundred dollars in two years – one hundred dollars in three years, one hundred dollars in five years, one hundred dollars in seven years, one hundred dollars in Eight years, one hundred dollars in ten years, with the interest on the two last payments one for one year and the other for three years, And provided that I should be living at the time Specified for the first payment aforesaid then the above payments are postponed and payable as hereinafter mentioned (viz) one hundred dollars in one year, one hundred in two years, one hundred dollars in four years, one hundred dollars in six years, one hundred dollars in seven years, one hundred dollars in nine years and the interest on the last payment for two years (the time when said pamants commence is the day of my decease). The above sums given to My said daughter Harriet Emily is over and above all such sum and sums of money or personal property as I have given to my said Daughter Harriet Emily previous to the date hereof

10th I give devise and bequeath unto my Daughter Melinda Ann or her legal representatives the sum of six hundred dollars as follows (viz) one hundred dollars in two years, one hundred dollars in four years, one hundred dollars in five years, one hundred dollars in seven years, one hundred dollars in Eight years, one hundred dollars in Eleven years from the first day of April next and the interest on the two last payments one for one year and the other for four years, and provided that I shall be living at the time Specified for the first payment aforesaid, then the above payments are postponed and payable as hereinafter mentioned (viz) one hundred dollars in one year, one hundred dollars in three years, one hundred dollars in four years, one hundred dollars in six years, one hundred dollars in seven years, one hundred dollars in ten years from the day of my decease, and the interest on the last payment for the term of three years. The above sums of money given to my said Daughter Melinda Ann are over and above all such sum or sums of money or personal property as I have given to my said Daughter Melinda Ann previous to the date hereof –

11th I give devise and bequeath unto my Daughter Laura Cordelia or her legal representatives the sum of six hundred dollars as follows (viz) one hundred dollars in three years, one hundred dollars in four years, one hundred dollars in six years one hundred dollars in nine years, one hundred dollars in ten years, one hundred dollars in Eleven years, from the first day of April next and the interest, on the three last payments, one for two years, one for three years, one for four years. And provided that I should be living at the time Specified for the first payment aforesaid then the above payments are postponed and payable as follows, one hundred dollars in two years, one hundred dollars in four years, one hundred dollars in five years, one hundred dollars in Eight years one hundred dollars in nine years, one hundred dollars in ten years from the day of my decease, and the interest in the three last payments one for one year, one for two years, and the other for three years. The above sums of money given to my Daughter Laura Cordelia are over and above all such sum and sums of money or personal property as I have given to my said daughter previous to the date hereof –

12th I give devise and bequeath unto my Daughter Julia Maria or her legal representative the sum of six hundred dollars as follows, one hundred dollars in four years, one hundred dollars in six years, one hundred dollars in Eight years, one hundred dollars in nine years, one hundred dollars in ten years, one hundred dollars in Eleven years from the first day of April next and the interest on the four last payments as follows, one for one year one for two years, one for three years and one for four years and Provided that I should be living at the time Specified for the first payment aforesaid, then the above payments are postponed and payable as follows, one hundred dollars in three years, one hundred dollars in five years, one hundred dollars in seven years, one hundred dollars in Eight years, one hundred dollars in nine years, one hundred dollars in ten years from the day of My decease, and the interest on the three last payments one for one year one for two years, and the other for three years. The above sums made payable to my said five Daughters, Hannah Orvilla, Harriet Emily, Melinda Ann, Laura Cordelia, and Julia Maria as aforesaid are the amount of three thousand dollars secured in and by a certain Bond and mortgage, given by Silas S. and Prosper B. Washburn to me and bearing Even date herewith and made payable in said Bond and mortgage corresponding to the aforesaid Legacies to my said five daughters aforesaid –

13th I give devise and bequeath unto my youngest son Joseph S. (after my said Wife shall cease to be my widow) all those certain pieces or parcels of land situate lying and being in the Town of Ellisburgh in the County of Jefferson, and State of New York being part of Lots No 76, 93 (and No 20 in Boune and Eddy Tract) in said Town and are described as follows (Viz) The first piece being in part of said Lot No 93 and beginning at a Cedar Post in the fence at the South East corner of a piece of Land in said Lot No 93 owned and occupied by Sanford B. Holley. Thence Southerly along the Post and Board fence as now standing to the centre of the road leading from Ellis village to the Landing (so called) Thence South sixty six degrees forty five minutes west along the centre of said road to the East line of Ezra Stearn’s land Thence northerly and Easterly and again northerly on the East line of said Stearns land to land owned and occupied by said Holley to a Post and Board fence thence Easterly on said Holleys line and on the line of the said Post and Board fence to the place of Beginning containing fourteen acres of land be the same more or less. The second piece being a part of said Lot No 76 and beginning in the west line of said Lot No 76, and in the centre of the aforesaid road, Thence north sixty six degrees forty five minutes East along the centre of said road Eighty seven links to a stake. Thence south twenty Eight degrees forty five minutes East on the line of the post and Board fence separating the piece of land formerly occupied by Dr. Alfred Ely from the residue of the piece of land lying East of the Meeting House formerly belonging to the heirs of Jonathan Russell deceased to the centre of the south branch of Big Sandy creek – Thence down the centre of said creek as it winds and turns to the west line of said lot No 76. Thence northerly on the west line of said Lot No 76 to the place of Beginning containing six acres of land being the same more or less. The Third piece being parts of said Lots No 76 and 93 and is described as follows (viz) Bounded on the East by the centre of the road leading past the Dwelling House of Andrew Scott on said Lot No 76, in the north by Land owned by said Scott, on the west by the centre of said creek and on the South by the north line of a piece of land deeded Silas S. and Prosper B. Washburn by deed bearing date Even herewith, Containing thirteen acres and thirty five hundredths of Land be the same more or less – The fourth piece being a part of said Lot No 20 in the Boune and Eddy Tract in said Town Being twenty acres to be take from the west side of a piece of Land which I purchased of said Bell as aforesaid by a line running parallel with the west line of said Lot from the north to the south lines of the same. To have and to hold the above described four pieces of Land (after my said wife shall cease to be my widow) unto my said Son Joseph S. his heirs legal representatives and assigns forever.

14th All the rest residue and remainder of all my Estate and Effects both real and personal, whatsoever and wheresoever not herein before Effectually disposed of after payment of all my just debts Legacies, Funeral Expences, costs, charges, and and Expences of settleing my Estate, and in the management of the same I give unto my said wife, so long as she shall remain my widow and after my said wife shall cease to be my widow I give devise and bequeath the same to my said son Joseph S. To have and to hold the same unto my said son Joseph S. as aforesaid his heirs, legal representatives and assigns forever –

15th And I hereby declare and my intention is, that the said Legacies given to my said wife in and by virtue of the 2nd 3d. and 14th articles in this my Will and testament is in full satisfaction and recompence of and for her Dower and thirds which she may or can in any wise claim or demand out of My Estate. And I hereby Order and direct – that the said devise in the 3d Article of this Will be considered a home for my said Children (so long as my said wife shall remain my widow) and be Subject to her control, they being single and unmarried, and so long as they will render the same services to and for my said wife as they have heretofore done for me –

16th And I hereby commit the Guardianship of my two daughters Laura Cordelia and Julia Maria and my son Joseph S. until they shall respectively arrive at the age of twenty one years unto my said wife during her life if she shall so long continue my widow, and from and and after her decease or second Marriage unto my Trusty and much Esteemed Friend Jeremiah Field of Ellisburgh aforesaid, one of my Executors herein after named. and I do hereby declare that the Expences of the maintainance and Education of my said children until they shall attain the age aforesaid, or until they are married (provided that such Children shall be married before they arrive at the age aforesaid, and shall become Entitled to the sum or sums of money hereby provided for their benefit respectively) shall be paid and borne from and out of the said property given as aforesaid to my said wife –

17th And also I do hereby authorize Empower and direct my said Executor Jeremiah Field hereafter named from and after my said wife shall cease to be my widow until the said Laura Cordelia, Julia Maria, and Joseph S. shall attain the age of twenty one years to manage and improve the Estate and fortune of them the said Laura Cordelia, Julia Maria, and Joseph S. by me hereby given them for their use and benefit, and to lease all or any part of his or their freehold or Lease hold Estate and to lend and place out upon good and Substantial security or securities at interest or otherwise improve the same according to his discretion, all or any part of the monies belonging to or arising from the said Estate and fortunes of the said Laura Cordelia Julia Maria, and Joseph S. and to pay unto and account with them respectively for all such rents interest, produce, and improvements as shall arrise from or be made of and produced by the Estates monies and fortune hereby given them, when they shall Each attain the age of twenty one

18th And I will and direct that my Executors hereafter named or the Sur4vivor of them in this my last Will and testament for and towards the performance of this my said Will and testament shall convey and assign the piece or parcel of Land Enclosed and now occupied by Abner Brooks in said Lot No 76, to the said Brooks or his heirs forever in fee simple by all and Every such lawful way and means in the law as to my said Executors or the survivor of them shall seem fit or necessary upon the payment of the sum of Money which I am borne to pay the heirs of Jonathan Russell deceased at the time and times when the same shall become due and payable, according to the Tenor and Effect of a certain Contract which I Executed to the said heirs aforesaid for said piece of Land aforesaid and shall also pay all such Expences for Conveying the same to me by the same heirs aforesaid and shall also pay all such Expences of conveying the same by My said Executors or the Survivor of them, promptly and without delay –

19 And I do hereby declare that in case I shall in my life time advance and pay to any of my children Either sons or daughters any sum or sums of money, for his, her or their benefit or advancement in the world, or otherwise, and shall signify the same in writing under my hand then if any such sum or sums shall be Equal to the share or shares of such child or children respectively of and in and by virtue of the within will by me hereby devised or bequeathed for their respective benefits, such sum or sums so paid or advanced, shall in the case be accounted in full satisfaction of the share or shares of such child or children respectively in the same Estate and premises. But if such advanced sum or sums shall be less than the share or shares of such child or children respectively of and in the within will, then such advanced sum or sums shall be accounted as part only of the share or shares, of such child or children therein – And in that case such child or children shall only receive the ballance of his share after deducting the sum or sums advanced as aforesaid at the times and times specified in the within will

20th And I hereby appoint my beloved wife Tryphenia Executrix and my Friend Jeremiah Field of Ellisburgh aforesaid Executor of this my last Will and testament, hereby revoking all former will by me at any time made.

21st And lastly my Express will and meaning is and I do hereby order and appoint that if any differences, dispute, question or controversy, shall be made arrize or happen concerning any gift bequest matter or thing in this my last Will and Testament given and bequeathed Expressed or contained that then no Suit or Suits in Law or Equity or otherwise shall be brought commenced or prosecuted for and Concerning the same but the same shall be referred wholly to the accord order and determination of my Friends William Wodell and Sanford B. Holley, both of said Ellisburgh aforesaid and what they shall order direct or determine therein shall be binding and conclusive to all and every person and persons therein concerned –

22nd And also it is my will and intention and I hereby order and direct that the use of the first piece of Land described in the 4th article in this my last Will and testament, given to my daughter Elizabeth Caroline shall be paid to my said wife (in case of my decease) until the first day of April Eighteen hundred and forty nine

Signed Sealed published and

declared by the said Testator as                                                                                        Joseph Washburn                            (seal)

and for his last Will and

testament in presence of us who

at his request, in his presence

and in the presence of Each

other have Subscribed our

names as witnesses thereunto

this thirtieth day of March in

the year of our Lord one thous-

sand Eight hundred and forty

seven –

 

Henry S. Field  Ellisburgh Jefferson Co. N.Y.

Charles H Seaman  same place aforesaid

Jeremiah Field   same place aforesaid

 

Presented for probate on 14 July 1847 by Jeremiah Field of the town of Ellisburgh, the heirs being Tryphenia Washburn, Elizabeth Caroline Wilder, Silas S. Washburn, Hannah Orvilla Washburn, Prosper B. Washburn, Harriet Emily Washburn, Malinda Ann Washburn, and the following named minors under the age of 21 years, Laura Cordelia Washburn, Julia Maria Washburn and Joseph S. Washburn, all of the town of Ellisburgh, County of Jefferson and State of New York. Jeremiah Field was appointed as Special Guardian of the above named minors. Proved by the subscribing witnesses Jeremiah Field on 14 July 1847, Charles H. Seaman on 28 July 1847, and Henry S. Field on 2 Aug. 1847. The will was approved on 2 Aug. 1847, and Letters Testamentary were granted to Jeremiah Field, the Executor, and Tryphenia Washburn, the Executrix.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Jefferson County Probate Wills Vol. D, p. 385-408, from FHL microfilm #0895388.

 

 

Will and Codicil of Joshua Washburn of Gorham, Ontario County, New York (1873) *

Record of Joshua Washburn’s Will

and one Codicil thereto

The Last Will and Testament of Joshua Washburn of the Town of Gorham in the County of Ontario and State of New York.

I, Joshua Washburn of the Town of Gorham aforesaid being of sound mind and memory but aware of the uncertainty of life, for the purpose of disposing of all my property after my decease do hereby make publish and declare this my Last Will and Testament, in manner, as follows, that is to say, First, I do hereby give and bequeath unto my beloved wife, Phebe Washburn, all the personal property, household furniture, and goods which shall be in my house at the time of my decease, and the same to be disposed of by my said wife as she may think best, but this not to include any promissory Notes Bonds Mortgages, or property of that nature, which I may own. Second, I hereby give bequeath and devise unto my said wife, and unto my son Edward Washburn my Home Farm, and upon which I now reside and which is situate in the Town of Gorham aforesaid, containing One Hundred and twenty two acres of Land for their use and benefit, so long as my said wife, and my said son Edward or either of them shall live, and my said Executors, hereinafter named shall see that, my said Home Farm, during the lives, of my said wife, and my son, is properly managed and worked so that they shall have and enjoy the crops and proceeds thereof, for their support and maintenance. If possible, I desire that one of my sons shall see to the proper management and care of my said farm. The foregoing Legacy and bequest to my said wife, shall be accepted and received by her in lieu and stead of any and all right of dower or thirds out of my Estate. I also direct that the farm and buildings on said farm shall be kept in repaired from and out of the proceeds of said farm. I also desire and Expect that my daughters shall have a home, on my said Home Farm until said farm is sold. And, immediately after the death of my said wife, and my said son, Edward, I direct and require my Executors, hereinafter named to to sell my Home Farm, and the proceeds thereof, to be divided, as hereinafter directed. Third, As soon after my death as may be practicable and as soon as a good fair price can be obtained therefore, I wish and direct that my Executors sell and dispose of any and all the rest and remainder of my real estate, which I may own at the time of my decease, and to also sell, dispose of, and convert into money, any and all other personal property not herein before bequeathed to my wife is herein before stated, in the first clause of this will and that, with the proceeds of said real estate and said personal property, I will and direct that my said executors erect, and build, a decent marble monument, for the use of the family, and then, next; to pay, and discharge, all my just funeral charges and Expenses, and pay in full any, and all legal debts, and liabilities, which I may owe, at the time of my death, and with the remainder, of the said proceeds, I direct that, my said Executors, divide the same, and pay same over, in Equal shares, and portions, unto my children Mary E. Fisher, Sarah G. Washburn, Edwin J. Washburn, Alida E. Washburn, Charles U. Washburn, Joshua K. Washburn, and William C. Washburn, and to their heirs, and assigns, but, in case, Either of my said children, shall die, having no child or children surviving them, then, the remainder of said proceeds as herein before designated shall be divided in Equal parts and shares, among, the survivors of my said seven (7) above named children. After the death of my said wife, and of my said son, Edward, then, I will and direct that the proceeds, of my said Home Farm, mentioned in the second Clause of this Will, shall be given to, and divided between the same persons, and in the same shares, and in the same manner, as proceeds, of the rest of my property as in the third clause of this directed. Fourth, I desire, by way of a Legacy, unto Philetus N. Porter, to forgive him, any, and all sums and matters, which may be at my death, found charged to him on my books, and request and direct that my said Executors shall give unto him a full receipt, and acquittance of any and all claims, which I may have against said Porter, at my decease. Fifth, I hereby nominate and appoint my wife, Phebe Washburn Executrix, and my sons Edwin J. Washburn, and Joshua K. Washburn, Executors of this my Last Will and Testament, giving and granting unto them full power and authority to sell, dispose of, and give, deed or deeds of any & all my real estate, at the time, and in the manner as is herein before specified. I hereby revoke all former wills by me made. Sixth, I also desire to add as a clause to the second clause of this will, that it is my desire and wish, that if during the lives of my said Wife and my son Edward the income, and proceeds of, my said Home Farm, shall be more than sufficient to furnish and give unto my said wife, and my son Edward, a good, comfortable support and maintenance, and to include clothes and to pay the annual taxes & insurance and to keep the said farm & buildings in repair, then, I devise, that the surplus of, said proceeds, (if any there shall be,) shall be divided annually between the same, persons, and children, named in the third clause of this Will, in the same shares and in the same portions, and my said Executors shall have the control of the said proceeds for that purpose.

        In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this twenty third day of January A.D. 1873.

        Witnesses                                                                                                                      Joshua Washburn                            (seal)

        J. H. Metcalf

        H. M. Field

        The foregoing Instrument written on four pages and partly on a fifth, was at the date thereof duly declared to us, by Joshua Washburn, the testator therein named and mentioned to be his last Will and Testament, and he, at the same time acknowledged to us, and to each of us, that he had signed, and sealed the same and we, there upon at his request, and in his presence, and in the presence of each of us, and of each other signed our names thereto as attesting witnesses.

Jabez H. Metcalf  Canandaigua Ontario County N.Y.

H. M. Field of Canandaigua, New York

 

Whereas I, Joshua Washburn of Gorham Ontario County New York have made my Last Will and Testament in writing, bearing date the 23d day of January 1873, in and by which I have by the Fourth Clause in said Will given and bequeathed to Philetus N. Porter a release of any and all sums and matters which may be at my death found charged to him on my books and have requested and directed that my Executors shall give unto him a full receipt and acquittance of any and all claims which I may have against said Porter at my decease, now therefore I do, by this my writing which I hereby declare, to be a codicil to my said last Will and Testament and to be taken as a part thereof, order and declare that my will is to withdraw the said Fourth Clause and to revoke the said Legacy and bequest so given to the said Philatus N. Porter, and to have the said Will read the same as if the said Fourth Clause had not been inserted therein originally. And lastly, it is my desire that this Codicil be annexed to and made a part of my said Last Will and Testament to all interests and purposes. In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this _____ day of _____ A.D. 1879.

        The words “to revoke” written in before signing

        Witnesses                                                                                                                      Joshua Washburn            (seal)

J. Henry Metcalf

H. M. Field

        The above instrument consisting of one sheet was, at the date thereof, declared to us by Joshua Washburn, the testator therein mentioned to be a codicil to his Last Will and Testament; and he at the same time acknowledged to us and each of us that he had signed and sealed the same; and we, thereupon, at his request, and in his presence, and in the presence of each other; signed our names thereto as attesting witnesses.

        J. Henry Metcalf  Canandaigua, Ontario County, New York

        Henry M. Field  Canandaigua New York

 

I hereby verify the foregoing to be a true copy of the Will and Codicil of Joshua Washburn, deceased proved before me, Recorded and compared this 28th day of April A.D. 1880                                                                             A P. Babcock

                                                                                                                Surrogate

 

Proofs of Joshua Washburn’s Will, 28 April 1880

The Will and Codicil of Joshua Washburn of Gorham, deceased, with citation issued 9 April 1880, upon the petition of Joshua K. Washburn regarding the instrument bearing the date 23 Jan. 1873, who is named as one of the executors,…

Jabez H. Metcalf of Canandaigua, Ontario County, and Henry M. Field of Canandaigua, Ontario County, gave depositions that they were acquainted with Joshua Washburn, late of Gorham, that the testator in the presence of the deponents on 23 Jan. 1873, subscribed his name, and that they also subscribed their names as witnesses, and that he was at the time competent to the best of their observation….

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Ontario County Record of Wills, Vol. 61, 1879-1884, p. 224-226, from FHL microfilm #0834769, and abstracted from Ontario County Wills, Vol. 56, 1874-1881, p. 455, from FHL microfilm #0834766.

 

 

Will of Judith Washburn of North Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1861) *

                Know all men by these Presents, that I, Judith Washburn of North Bridgewater, County of Plymouth, State of Massachusetts, Singlewoman, being of sound and disposing mind and memory, do on this twentyninth day of June, eighteen hundred and sixty one, do make and publish this my last Will and Testament.

                I give and bequeath to my Sister Julia Ann Clark of North Bridgewater all my real and personal estate that I now have or may have at my decease.

                And I do nominate and appoint my sister Julia Ann Clark of North Bridgewater to be my Executrix of this my last Will and Testament.

                In testimony whereof I the said Judith Washburn, have hereunto set my hand and seal, the day and year above written.

                                                                                                                                                Judith Washburn                             (seal)

                                Signed and sealed and declared by the said Judith Washburn to be her last Will and Testament in presence of us, who at her request and in her presence, and in presence of each other, subscribe our names as witnesses.—

                                                                                                                                                James Porter

                                                                                                                                                Carrie A. Porter

                                                                                                                                                Alvan Washburn

 

Presented for probate on the first Tuesday of May 1862 by Lyman Clark, with Daniel Crooker and Rufus C. Kimball, both of North Bridgewater, as sureties, and petitioned for probate of the estate of Judith Washburn, late of North Bridgewater, with will annexed. Letters Testamentary granted to Lyman Clark of North Bridgewater on 6 May 1862.

 

Daniel Crocker, Rufus C. Kimball, and James Porter were appointed to appraise the estate of Judith Washburn, late of North Bridgewater, on 13 May 1862, her real estate valued at only $12.00, and her personal estate valued at $19.00. Lyman Clark, the administrator of the estate, gave his oath to the inventory on 2 June 1862.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 104, p. 100-101, from FHL microfilm #0555646, Vol. 115, p. 83, and Vol. 108, p. 35.

 

 

Will of Julia E. Washburn of Northampton, Hampshire County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1860) *

Know all men by these presents that I, Julia E. Washburn wife of Hattil Washburn Jr. of Northampton in the County of Hampshire and Commonwealth of Massachusetts, being of sound and disposing mind and memory, do make publish and declare this my last will and testament in manner and form following, that is to say.

First I direct my Executor hereinafter named to pay all my just debts and funeral charges.

 

Second To my husband Hattil Washburn Jr. I give devise and bequeath all my estate real personal or mixed of which I may be seized or to which I may be entitled at the time of my decease.

 

Third, I constitute and appoint my said husband Hattel Washburn Jr. to be the Executor of this my last will and testament hereby revoking and making void all former Wills by me heretofore executed.

It is further my will that the Court of Probate, or any Court having jurisdiction of Wills &c. require no bond or sureties on any bond of my said husband for the faithful performance of the trust by me committed to him by this instrument.

In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal, and publish and declare this to be my last will and testament, in the presence of the witnesses named below this twenty third day of February, in the year of our Lord, one thousand Eight hundred and sixty

                                                                                                                                                Julia E. Washburn                          (seal)

 

Signed sealed published and declared by the said Julia E. Washburn, as and for her last Will and testament, in the presence of us, who in her presence and in the presence of each other and at her request have subscribed our names as witnesses hereto.

Harvey Kirkland

Sophia W. Griswold

Elizabeth K. Williams

 

Probated in Nov. 1877, but the letters of administration were not recorded with the will.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Hampshire County Probate Vol. 59, p. 508-509, from FHL microfilm #1601873.

 

 

Will of Justus C. Washburn of Harrietstown, Franklin County, New York (1892) *

   In the Name of God Amen.

I, Justus C. Washburn of the town of Harrietstown, County of Franklin and State of New York, do make, publish and declare this to be my last will and testament in manner and form following, that is to say:

  First: I direct my executor here after named to pay all my just debts and funeral expenses as soon as convenient after my decease.

  Second: I give bequeath and devise all my property and estate both real and personal whatsoever and wheresoever as well that which I now possess as that which I may hereafter acquire and die seized or possessed of or entitled to, to my brother in law William H. Thayer, of Wilmington, Essex County, New York, in trust however for the uses and purposes following; to pay my just debts and funeral expenses as above provided; to deposit in the Iron National Bank of Plattsburgh, N.Y. the sum of four hundred dollars, and to pay the same over to my son Halsey Thayer Washburn with accrued interest when he shall have attained the age of twenty one years – the balance of said property to be used for the support, maintenance and education of my said and only child Halsey Thayer Washburn during his minority

Lastly: I do hereby nominate my said brother in law William H. Thayer to be executor of this my last will and testament and also Guardian of my minor child Halsey Thayer Washburn and I hereby request that my said child be sent to school at least six months during each year of his minority and that my watch and chain be given to my said son Halsey.

In witness whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and seal this eighteenth day of April 1892

                                                                                                                                                J. C. Washburn                                 (seal)

  Signed, sealed published

and declared by the testator as and for his last will and testament in the presence of the undersigned who at his request in his presence and in the presence of Each other have hereunto subscribed their names as witnesses

                                Oatman A. Covell residing at Saranac Lake N.Y.

                                Frederick A. Isham residing at Saranac Lake N.Y.

 

Presented for probate on 30 Dec. 1892 by William Thayer, the Executor, who gave the legatees, devisees, heirs at law and next of kin of the testator as William Thayer and Halsey Thayer Washburn, both residing at Wilmington, N.Y; Edgar Washburn residing at Minneapolis, Minn; Mrs Delaney Washburn Obrist residing at Jay, N.Y; Alfred Washburn residing at Providence, R.I; Celesta Holmes residing at East Norton, Mass; and Melvina Downing residing at Pendleton, Oregon, with Walter J. Mears, counselor at law appearing for the infant Halsey Thayer Washburn as his special guardian. Proved by Oatman A. Covill and Frederick A. Isham, the witnesses, and approved on 30 Dec. 1892.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Franklin County Will Book 10, p. 374-376, from FHL microfilm #0864413.

 

 

Will of Lemuel B. Washburn of Reading, Windsor County, Vermont (1847) *

I Lemuel B. Washburn, of Reading in the County of Windsor & State of Vermont being in a very infirm state of health and sensible of my liableness to death, at the same time being in my own apprehension, of sound mind do judge it best to make, and according do hereby make this my last will and testament. It is my will that all my just debts and the charges of my funeral be paid and discharged by my executor hereafter named and appointed, out of my estate as soon as conveniently may be after my decease, and I leave the charges of my funeral to the direction of my said executor. I give and dispose of my estate real and personal in the following manner. It is my will that my Executor shall be to one half of the expence out of my estate, of buying a suitable portion of burrying ground where my Wife and Father are now burried, and also to be at one half of the expence of fencing the same, with good suitable materials of stone and iron. I hereby give to my only son, Henry A. Washburn a certain promissory Note of $700.00 secured by mortgage, dated at Reading Nov. 25.th 1843, and signed Flynn Pearson, for which he is to have principle and interest from and after the 25th of Nov. 1846. Also, a certain seven year old brown mare the only horse of which I am in possession, valued at $100. Now to conclude, I herby further will that the remaind of my real and personal estate be equally divided betwen my only son Henry A. Washburn and my only daughter Lucy M. Stearns, there heirs and assigns. And I hereby nominate and appoint my son in law Benjamin F Stearns to executed this my last will and testiment. In testimony whereof I hereby set my hand and seal, and declare this my Last will and testament this day of our Lord March 10. 1847

signe and seald in present of                                                                                             Lemuel B. Washburn                      (seal)

Ammi Willard

Rufus Washburn

Luran Rodgers

 

Probated on 13 July 1847, Benjamin F. Stearns, of Reading, was appointed as Executor of the last Will and Testament of Lemuel B. Washburn, late of Reading, with Charles Washburn, Paul W. Stearns, and Honestey Stearns, of Reading, as sureties. Galo B. Ralph was appointed as guardian of Henry A. Washburn, a minor son and heir of Lemuel B. Washburn, on 26 Aug. 1847, the only other heir being Lucy Melvina Stearns, the wife of Benjamin F. Stearns.

Calvin Wardner and William Fitch, of Reading, were appointed to appraise the estate of Lemuel B. Washburn, late of Reading, on 13 July 1847. The inventory, dated 16 Aug. 1847, totaled $6055.87, including his real estate valued at $3220.

Hiram Goddard, Solomon Keyes and Rufus Forbush, of Reading, were appointed to divide the real estate of Lemuel B. Washburn, late of Reading, between his devisees Henry A. Washburn, represented by his guardian Galo B. Ralph, and Lucy Melvina Stearns, wife of Benjamin F. Stearns, on 27 Aug. 1847.

Benjamin F. Stearns petitioned for a license to sell part of the personal estate to pay its debts on 22 Dec. 1847, which was granted on 4 Jan. 1848.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Windsor County, Vermont, Windsor District Probate File “Washburn, Hannah B. – Weston, Reuben,” from FHL microfilm #1183445, beginning at image 55, online at www.FamilySearch.org.

 

 

Will of Levi Washburn of Hartford, Washington County, New York (1868) *

In the name of God Amen: I Levi Washburn of The Town of Hartford in the County of Washington and State of New York, being of sound and disposing mind and memory do make, publish and declare this my last will and Testament in manner and form following that is to say

First. I give and bequeath to my wife Lydia M Washburn all my house hold furniture, beds, bedding clothing and crockery, silver ware and all other articles and utensils and personal property in the house used for housekeeping, and I also give and bequeath to her one half of all my other personal property. I also give, devise and bequeath to my said wife Lydia M Washburn the sum of six thousand dollars and the use income and profits thereof as long as she lives and the right to use such portions of the principal as she sees fit for her comfort, support and maintenance during her natural life, and all that portion of the Principal remaining at her decease not expended as aforesaid I give devise and bequeath in equal shares share and share alike to my four children William Henry Washburn, George Harvey Washburn, Mary Elizabeth Washburn and Nettie Jane Washburn, and the said legacy of six thousand dollars I expressly charge after all my real estate and upon the proceeds thereof when sold as hereinafter provided and the said principal sum of six thousand dollars is to be paid to my said wife out of the proceeds of the sale of my said real estate when sold as hereinafter provided and the income thereof to commence at the time of such sale and the provisions of this will in favor of my said wife are to be accepted by her in lieu of dower in and to my real estate.

Second: I give and bequeath to my son George H. Washburn the other half of my personal property being all the residue of my personal property except what is given and bequeathed to my wife in the first clause of this will.

Third  All the rest residue and remainder of all my property both real and personal I give devise and bequeath in equal shares, share and share alike to my four children, William H. Washburn, George H. Washburn, Mary E. Washburn, and Nettie J. Washburn their Executors, administrators and assignees respectively.

Fourth  I do hereby authorize and empower my wife Lydia M Washburn as Executrix of this will or in her individual capacity use and convey all my real estate in such manner and upon such terms and at such time or times as she shall see fit and to execute and deliver to the purchaser or purchasers thereof good and sufficient conveyance and to receive the proceeds of such sale, and she is to hold and apply the same according to the provisions of this will for the benefit of all the beneficiaries under this will or provided for in this will.

Fifth Until the sale of my real estate as provided in the 4th clause of this will and for @ period not longer than the natural life of my wife Lydia M Washburn I give devise and bequeath to my Executrix and Executor hereinafter named, and to the survivors of them and to the person qualifying as such the right and power to carry on and manage said real Estate and to receive the rents upon and profits thereof and to apply the income thereof to the support and maintenance of my said wife and my herein before specified four children and to divide the net income thereof after paying the expenses of carrying on and managing said real estate and supporting my said wife and said children equally between my said wife and said four children share and share alike.

Sixthly  I do nominate and appoint my said wife Lydia M Washburn Executrix and my friend and neighbor David Hall Executor of this my last Will and Testament hereby revoking all former wills by me made.

                In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this 28th day of April 1868.

                                                                                                                                                Levi Washburn                 (seal)

The foregoing instrument written on three pages of this sheet of paper was at the date thereof signed sealed, published and declared by the said Levi Washburn as and for his last Will and testament in presence of us who at his request and in his presence and in the presence of each other have subscribed our names as witnesses thereto and the words “to my said wife” in the first clause and “she is” in the 4th clause interlined before execution.

                Warren H. Brown Hartford N.Y.

                Alexander Gourlay Hartford N.Y.

 

Proved by Warren H. Brown and Alexander Gourlay, both of Hartford, on 27 July 1868.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Washington County Probate, Vol. L, p. 143-146.

 

 

Will of Levi Washburn of Carmel, Putnam County, New York (1875) *

Know all men by these presents that I Levi Washburn of the Town of Carmel County of Putnam and state of New York do make publish and declare this to be my last will and testament in manner following. First. I give devise and bequeath to my nephew Henry Nichols all and every of my estate both real and personal of every Kind and nature whatever. Second. I hereby nominate and appoint my said nephew Henry Nichols the sole executor of this my last will and testament hereby revoking all portions of any former wills by me made which may in any manner conflict with this instrument.

Witness my hand and seal this twenty-sixth day of May A.D. 1875

                                                                                                                                                Levi Washburn

Witnesses Augt Hazen

                Alsan B. Crane

Signed sealed and declared by the said testator to be his last will and testament in the presence of us who have signed our names at his request as witnesses in his presence and in the presence of each other

                Augt Hazen of Carmel N.Y.

                Alsan B. Crane Carmel N.Y.

 

Henry Nichols, the sole Executor, petitioned for probate of the will of Levi Washburn, late of the Town of Carmel, on 18 June 1883. Evidence was presented on 20 Aug. 1883 that the heirs were notified, and Elisha Gifford, Van Rensalin Gifford, Ladeska Gifford, Edmund Robinson, Syntha Glover, Franklin Washburn, Louisa Washburn, Darius Sunderlin, Louisa Barnett, Mary A. Lee, Phebe E. Stevens, Susan E. Miller, Emma Lee, George H. Tompkins, Daniel Washburn, William R. Washburn, and Samuel Washburn appeared that day to oppose the probate of said will.

 

At a Surrogates Court held in and for the County of Putnam at the Surrogate Office in the village of Carmel in said County on the 11th day of October in the year One Thousand Eight Hundred and Eighty three, the will was presented and arguments were presented by Henry Nichols, the Executor named in the will, represented by Ambrose Ryder, his Attorney, in support of the proof, and Elisha Gifford, Van Rensalin Gifford, Lodeska Gifford, Edmund Robinson, and Syntha Glover, five of the next of kin, represented by John G. Miller, their attorney, who filed an answer in opposition thereto, and Francis Washburn, Louisa Washburn, and Darius Washburn, three of the next of kin, represented by Frederick R. Barnum, their attorney, who filed an answer in opposition thereto, and Louisa Barnett, Mary A. Lee, Phebe E. Stevens, Susan E. Miller, Emma Lee, and George H. Tompkins, six of the next of kin, represented by William R. Lee, their attorney, who filed an answer in opposition thereto, and Daniel Washburn and William Washburn, two of the next of kin, represented by William Downing, their attorney, who filed an answer  in opposition thereto, and Samuel Washburn, one of the next of kin, represented by Baker and Marchanson, his attorneys, who filed an answer in opposition thereto. It was determined that the said Levi Washburn at the time of the execution of the said instrument was in all respects competent to execute the same, and was not under restraint or undue influence, and the last will and testament of the said Levi Washburn was declared properly executed and is genuine and valid, and the objections were dismissed.

 

Henry Nichols, the Executor, was granted letters of administration on 13 Nov. 1883.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Putnam County Probate, Wills Vol. N, p. 95-99, and Letters Testamentary, Vol. E, p. 14.

 

 

Will of Lewis Washburn of Middleborough, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1852) *

                Know all men by these Presents, that I, Lewis Washburn, of Middleborough, in the County of Plymouth and Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Yeoman, being in usual health and of sound and disposing mind and memory do make and publish this my last Will and Testament hereby revoking all former Wills by me at any time heretofore made.

                First, I hereby constitute and appoint my Wife Eunice Washburn to be sole Executrix of this my last Will, directing my said Executrix to pay all my just debts and funeral expenses and the legacies hereinafter given out of my estate.

                Second. After the payment of my said debts and funeral expenses, I give to each of my children Lewis Washburn Jr. and Charles L. Washburn the sum of five dollars to be paid to each of them within one year after my decease.

                Third. I give, devise and bequeath to my Wife Eunice Washburn, all the rest and residue of all the property, real, personal or mixed, of which I shall die seized or possessed, or to which I shall be entitled at the time of my decease, to have and to hold the same to her sole use forever.

                In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and seal and published and declared this to be my last Will and Testament in the presence of the Witnesses named below, this seventeenth day of August, in the year one thousand eight hundred and fifty two.

                                                                                                                                                Lewis Washburn                              (seal)

                Signed, sealed, published and declared by the said Lewis Washburn, as and for his last Will and Testament in presence of us, who in his presence, and in the presence of each other, and at his request have subscribed our names as Witnesses hereto. 

                                                                                                                                                Everett Robinson

                                                                                                                                                Sarah T. Robinson

                                                                                                                                                Sheba Thomson

 

Presented for probate on the last Tuesday of November 1860 by Eunice Washburn, the Executrix, and proved by Everett Robinson, one of the witnesses.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 102, p. 422-424, from FHL microfilm #0555645.

 

 

Will of Louisa Washburn of Barre, Orleans County, New York (1894) *

                                                                Last Will and Testament.

                I Louisa Washburn of the town of Barre, County of Orleans and State of New York, do make, ordain, publish and declare this to be my last Will and Testament, in manner and form following that is to say:

First, I direct the payment of my just debts, if any.

Second.– I give, devise and bequeath to my two children Horace A. Washburn and Lorenda E. Washburn all of my property, both real and personal, of Every kind or nature to share and share alike and to be theirs forever, provided however that my said daughter Lorenda E. Washburn shall be paid first the sum of one hundred dollars, out of my personal property.

Likewise, I make, Constitute and appoint Horace A. Washburn and Lorenda E. Washburn to be my Executors of this, my last Will and Testament, hereby revoking all former Wills by me made.

   In Witness Whereof, I have hereunto subscribed my name and affixed my seal, the 17th day of March in the year of our Lord one thousand Eight hundred and ninety four.

                                                                                                                                                Louisa Washburn                            (seal)

   The above partly written and partly printed instrument was subscribed by the said Louisa Washburn in our presence and acknowledged by her to each of us; and she at the same time declared the above instrument so subscribed by her to be her last Will and Testament; and we at her request, sign out names as attesting witnesses hereto, in her presence, and in the presence of each other, and write opposite our names our respective places of residence.

                                                                Dean F. Cuorie,                    residing at Albion, Orleans, Co. N.Y.

                                                Arthur D. West,                    residing at Albion, Orleans Co. N.Y.

 

Presented for probate on 28 Nov. 1896 by Horace A. Washburn and Lorinda E. Washburn, the Executors, and proved by Dean F. Cuorie and Arthur D. West.

 

Horace A. Washburn and Lorenda E. Washburn were granted Letters Testamentary on the estate of Louisa Washburn on 28 Nov. 1896.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Orleans County Probate Wills Vol. 27, pp. 361-362, 364, from FHL microfilm #0592767, and Letters Testamentary Vol. 8, p. 150.

 

 

Will of Lucy Washburn of North Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1846) *

        Know all men by these presents, that I Lucy Washburn of North Bridgewater in the County of Plymouth and State of Massachusetts widow, do make and publish the following as my last Will and Testament to wit, First I direct that my Executors hereinafter named pay out of my Estate all my just debts, and funeral charges. –

Second   I give to my son Francis Washburn of Kingston all my household furniture that is at my decease, found at the house now occupied by said Francis Washburn in Kingston.

Third      I give, devise and bequeath the rest and residue of my estate real and personal, to my following named children and their respective heirs to be equally divided among them viz:

                Judith Washburn, Nancy Faunce, Francis Washburn, Mary White, Jabez Washburn, Lucy K. Bryant, Alvan Washburn and Julia Clark – and as it respects my grand children, the offsprings of my sons Ira and Elias and the son of my daughter Sophia deceased, I have them in affectionate remembrance but have not goods or estate to bestow upon them. –

Fourth    I hereby nominate and appoint Francis Washburn and Judith Washburn, above named Executors of this my last Will and Testament. –

                In testimony whereof I the said Lucy Washburn have hereunto set my hand and seal, and publish and declare this to be my last Will and Testament, in the presence of the witnesses hereunto subscribed, this seventeenth day of January in the year one thousand eight hundred and forty six

                                                                                                                                                Lucy Washburn                                (seal)

The foregoing Instrument was signed sealed published and delivered by the said Lucy Washburn as and for her last will and testament, in presence of us, who in her presence, and in presence of each other, and at her request, have subscribed our names as witnesses thereunto

                                                                                                                                                Benjm. Kingman

                                                                                                                                                David F. Studley

                                                                                                                                                Henry L. Kingman

 

Presented for probate on the third Monday of February, 1850, by Francis Washburn and Judith Washburn, the Executors, and proved by Benjamin Kingman & Henry L. Kingman, two of the witnesses.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 92, p. 77-78, from FHL microfilm #0555640.

 

 

Will of Lydia Washburn of Worthington, Hampshire County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1814) *

In the Name of God Amen. I Lydia Washburn of Worthington in the County of Hampshire and Commonwealth of Massachusetts Spinster, being apprehensive of approaching desolution and of sound mind and memory, do make and publish this my last Will and Testament in manner and form as follows (viz)

First to Honored father Silas Washburn I give and bequeath all the wearing apparel formerly belonging to my beloved Husband deceased and also one Thersey[?] bed blanket, and one flannel sheet one Bible one Psalm Book and also all my Notes and property of every kind of which I shall die seized except what is hereafter will and bequeathed to others and paying my just debts and expenses. Also to my brother Thomas Hall Jr. I give and bequeath one Note of hand which I hold against him the said Thomas And also to my brother Aaron Hall I give and bequeath my flannel Blanket and one Linen sheet also three small Callico Shifts or Gowns Also to my brother Merrit Hall I give and bequeath one Iron shu and tongs one pair of Iron Andersons one Kitchen Table one tin Coffee Pot three small earthen plates also one Bedspread & one linen sheet & three meal bags. Also to Betsey Hancock I give and bequeath two womans flannel sheets 1 pr woolen stockings & one woolen apron Also to my Sisters Mary Hale Nancy Day and the child of Hannah Shoales deceased I give to the three sisters to be equally divided among them or their heirs all my wearing apparel and also all my house hold furniture that is not before in this Will willed & bequeathed to others — Lastly as to all the rest residue and remainder of my personal estate Goods, Chattels of whatever kind or nature soever — I give and bequeath the same to my three Sisters or their heirs as abovesaid to be equally divided among the three meaning that the heirs of my sister should have one third part of the above bequeathed Articles and also I do hereby appoint Capt John Stone my sole executor of this my last Will and Testament. In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and Seal this twenty third day of September one thousand eight hundred and fourteen—

Signed Sealed Published & declared by the above named Lydia Washburn to be her last Will and Testament in presence of us who have hereunto set our Names as Witnesses in presence of the testator

                                                                                                                                                Lydia Washburn                               (seal)

Dan Daniels

Nancy Stone

Nancy Stone 2d

 

Proved on 1 Nov. 1814, administration granted to John Stone, the Executor.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Lydia Washburn, late of Worthington, was appraised by Cypraim Parish, Jeremiah Phillips Jr. and John Watts on 13 Jan. 1815, and totaled $195.67, no real estate. John Stone, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 9 May 1815.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Hampshire County Probate Vol. 29, p. 247-248, and Vol. 30, p. 24-25, all from FHL microfilm #0879200. Lydia Washburn’s husband was Benjamin E. Washburn, of Cummington, MA, who died there in 1813 aged only 25 years. Lydia was also only 25 when she died in 1814 in Worthington, MA.

 

 

Will of Lydia Washburn of East Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1852) *

                In the name of God, Amen. I, Lydia Washburn of East Bridgewater, in the County of Plymouth and Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Widow, considering the uncertainty of this mortal life, and being of sound mind and memory, do make and ordain this my last Will and Testament in manner and form following, viz:

                I give and bequeath unto my Son Selden and his heirs and assigns, all of my Real Estate both land and buildings Also all of my household furniture, except one feather bed.

                I also give and bequeath unto my three daughters, viz. Freelove, Sarah, and Angelina, all of my wearing apparel, to be equally divided among them.

                I also give and bequeath unto my Son Lysander, one feather-bed.

                I hereby appoint my son Selden Executor of this my last Will and Testament, giving him all the rest and residue that is not disposed of in this Will.

                In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and seal this eighth day of September, in the year of Our Lord, one thousand eight hundred and fifty two.

                Signed, sealed, published and declared by the said Lydia Washburn, to be her last Will and Testament, in our hearing, who at her request, have put our names hereto, in her presence, and in the presence of each other as Witnesses.

                                                                                                                                                Lydia Washburn                               (seal)

Azor Harris

Charles A. Latham

Timothy Mitchell

 

Presented for probate on the last Tuesday of July 1860 by Selden Washburn, the Executor, and proved by Azor Harris and Timothy Mitchell, two of the witnesses.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 102, p. 258-259, from FHL microfilm #0555645.

 

 

Will of Lydia F. Washburn of Mount Pleasant and Ossining, Westchester County, New York (1878) *

I Lydia F Washburn of the town of Mount Pleasant County of Westchester and State of New York Widow of the late Benjamine Washburn mindful of the uncertainties of human life do make publish and declare this my last will and testament in manner following

First I direct my Executor hereinafter named to pay all my just debts and funeral expenses

Second I give devise and bequeath to my sister Adelia Vale wife of Abraham Vale two hundred dollars and in Case of her death the same to go to her children

Third I give devise and bequeath to my sister Deborah Wood wife of John Wood one hundred and fifty dollars and in case of her death the same to go to her children

Fourth All the rest and residue of my estate I direct to be divided into nine equal parts One ninth thereof I give devise and bequeath to Morgan Washburn One ninth to Benjamine S Washburn One Ninth to Oscar Washburn One Ninth to Isaac T Washburn One Ninth to Ellen Clark Wife of Amos R Clark One Ninth to Mary Emily Sarles wife of George W Sarles being the children of my deceased husband Benjamine Washburn One Ninth to the children of Abby Jane Washburn deceased daughter of my deceased husband, to be divided equally between them or their heirs One ninth to the Child of Oliver J Washburn Son of my deceased husband If she dies and leaves no child or children then her One Ninth to be Equally divided between the remaining legatees that received the residue of my Estate One Ninth to my Neice Helen Washburn or her heirs wife of John Washburn

Fifth In case of the death of either of the above named legatees between whom the residue of my estate is to be divided leaving any child or children then the share of such deceased legatees is to go to his or her child or children but should Either of the above legatees between whom the residue of my estate is to be divided die without child or children then the share of such deceased legatee is to go into the residue of my estate and to be Equally divided between the remaining legatees above named to whom I have given the residue of my estate

Sixth I hereby nominate and appoint Isaac T Washburn Executor of this my last Will and testament hereby revoking all other wills by me made

In Witness Whereof I have hereunto set my hand and Seal this 27th day of November 1878

                                                                                                                                                her

                                                                                                                                    Lydia  X  F Washburn                    (seal)

                                                                                                                                                mark

Signed published and declared by the said testatrix to be her last Will and Testament in the presence of us who have signed our names at her request as witnesses in her presence and in presence of each other

Charles Jayne   Town of Ossining State of New York

Harry M Webster  “             “           “             “

 

I Lydia F Washburn of the town of Ossining County of Westchester and State of New York formerly of the town of Mount Pleasant in said County do make this codicil to my last Will as follows

        Whereas in and by my last Will and Testament dated on or about the 27th day of November 1878 I by the fourth item of my said Will give devise and bequeath to Oscar Washburn one Ninth of the residue of my Estate now I hereby revoke said bequest to Oscar Washburn and which is contained among other bequests in the fourth item of my said Will and instead thereof I give devise & bequeath One Ninth of the residue of my Estate to Mary C Washburn wife of Oscar Washburn

In Witness Whereof I have hereunto set my hand and Seal this first day of August 1882

                                                                                                                                                her

                                                                                                                                    Lydia  X  F Washburn                    (seal)

                                                                                                                                                mark

Published and declared by the said Lydia F Washburn to be the codicil to her last Will and Testament in the presence of us who have signed the same as Witnesses in her presence at her request And in presence of each other

Charles Jayne Westchester Co State of New York

Harry M Webster Westchester Co New York

 

Presented for probate on 1 June 1887 by Isaac T Washburn, Executor, and proved by Charles Jayne of the town of Ossining on 25 July 1887. Isaac T Washburn testified on 1 Aug. 1887 that the whereabouts of Harry M Webster is no longer known, having left the county some three years ago.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Westchester County Probate Vol. 105, p. 6-12.

 

 

Will of Malancy Washburn of Gaines, Orleans County, New York (1876) *

                                                                Will of Malancy Washburn.

I, Malancy Washburn, wife of Ira Washburn, of the town of Gaines, County of Orleans, State of New York, do make, publish and declare this my last will and testament as follows

First.                                                       My husband has sufficient property for all his wants so as not to need bequests to him from me, and I trust, if for any cause he should come to want, his children, from means I may give them or otherwise, will provide for him.

Second                                                   My husband and myself have heretofore at different times given and advanced to my son Gilbert Washburn in money & property an amount equal to the portion we can give to our other children, so that I think he has received his full share of my property already. I therefore make no gift to him in this will.

Fourth.                                                   All the residue & remainder of my property and estate both real and personal, of every description, I give, devise & bequeath to my children, viz: Ira C. Washburn, Clarissa Washburn, Ruby W. Thomas, Adelia Washburn & Gates Washburn, share and share alike, to them their heirs and assigns forever. Except, if said Ira C. Washburn and Calista Ann Washburn, either or each of them should die without leaving lineal descendants, their heirs at law of such deceased, then I give all the share of my property hereby given to such deceased, and all the increase, produce & income thereof then remaining undisposed of by such deceased to said Ruby W., Adelia & Gates, and to their heirs and assigns, share & share alike.

Fifth.                                                      I hereby revoke all wills by me heretofore made, and I constitute & appoint my children Ruby W. Thomas and Gates Washburn to be executors of this my last will.

Gaines, August 10, 1876.                                                                                                  Malancy Washburn                         (seal)

The foregoing instrument was on the day of the date thereof signed, sealed, published & declared by Malancy Washburn, the Testatrix, as & for her last will and testament, in presence of each of us, and we at her request, and her presence & in presence of each other subscribe our names hereto as witnesses.

John H. Leonard, Albion, N.Y.

Jefferson F. Leonard, Albion, N.Y.

Arad T. Thomas,            “         “

 

Presented for probate on 1 Dec. 1890 by Ruby W. Thomas and Gates Washburn.

 

Orleans County Probate Letters Testamentary Vol. 6, p. 268:

Ruby W. Thomas and Gates Washburn were granted Letters Testamentary on the estate of Malancy Washburn on 22 Dec. 1890.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Orleans County Probate Wills Vol. 23, p. 173-174, from FHL microfilm #0592765, and Letters Testamentary Vol. 6, p. 268.

 

 

Will of Marcia P. Washburn of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1851) *

Know all men by these presents that I Marcia P. Washburn of Bridgewater in the County of Plymouth, widow, being of sound mind and memory do make publish and declare this my last will and testament as follows.

First, I give and bequeath unto my daughter Marcia P. Washburn One feather bed & bedstead and furniture for the same_ Parlor Carpet, Best Portable Sink and furniture, Looking Glass in the bed room_ All my silver ware, excepting one silver table spoon for each of her brothers_ six chairs in the sitting room, my best bureau, box of Chess men, and one third of my linen and books not otherwise disposed of,

Second, I give and bequeath unto my son Thomas J. Washburn 1 Feather bed_bedstead and furniture for the same_ 1 Carpet 1 Portable sink and furniture for the same_ the looking Glass in the front chamber_ Secretary & Book case_ the Chairs and Table in the Parlor chamber, my large Bible_ 1 Silver table spoon_ Backgammon board and one third of my linen & Books not otherwise disposed of.

Third I give and bequeath unto my sons Jacob P. Washburn and Nathan Washburn one feather bed and bedstead and furniture for the same, one Carpet, one Bureau, one Silver table spoon each, and one third part of my linen & books not otherwise disposed of. ~

Fourth I give and bequeath unto Doct Samuel Alden of Bridgewater my Centre Table.

Fifth  All the residue and remainder of my estate whether Real or Personal not herein disposed of after paying my just debts and funeral charges, I give and bequeath unto my children above named, in equal proportions – and to their heirs and assigns – Provided however and it is my will and order that my homestead in Bridgewater should be disposed of as soon as may be deemed proper & for the interest of my children after my decease and the proceeds divided equally between them –

Sixth I hereby appoint Philo Leach of Bridgewater, my Executor of this my last Will and Testament, and I hereby authorize and impower him to sell my homestead at public or private sale, as he shall deem most expedient and for the interest of my children_ and to make execute and deliver good and sufficient deed or deeds, conveying the same to the purchaser or purchasers thereof,

In testimony whereof I the said Marcia P. Washburn have hereunto set my hand and seal this first day of May one thousand eight hundred and fifty one. ~

Signed sealed published and declared                                                                             Marcia P. Washburn                      (seal)

by the said Marcia Washburn to be her

last Will and Testament in the presence of us who have

subscribed the same at her request and in her presence

as witnesses. —                    Artemas Hale

                                                Nabby Newhall

                                                Eli Washburn

 

Presented for Probate on the first Tuesday of July 1851 by Philo Leach, the Executor, and proved by Artemas Hale and Eli Washburn, two of the Witnesses.

 

An Inventory of the Estate of Marcia P. Washburn, late of Bridgewater, appraised by Samuel F. Sanger, Melvin Swift, and Caleb Hobart, not dated, her Real Estate valued at $2566.66, and her personal estate totaled $336.73. Philo Leach, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on the first Tuesday of July 1851.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 93, p. 305-308, from FHL microfilm #0555641.

 

 

Will and Codicil of Margaret B. Washburne of Gorham, Ontario County, New York (1878) *

Record of Margaret B. Washburne’s Will

In the name of God Amen. I Margaret B. Washburne of Gorham Ont. Co. N.Y. being of sound mind and memory do make, ordain, publish and declare this to be my last Will and Testament, that is to say: First After all my lawful debts are paid and discharged, I give, devise and bequeath to my husband Ira G. Washburne the use of the interest I have in the farm on which we now reside until my children arrive at the age of twenty one years, the amount which I paid on the farm is Five Thousand Dollars. Second, When my son Myron G. Washburne becomes twenty one years of age my Executor Ira G. Washburne shall pay to the said son Myron G. Washburne the sum of two thousand five hundred Dolls. Third, and the remaining two thousand five hundred Dolls. shall be paid by my said Executor or his successor in office to my son Jamie F. Washburne when he becomes twenty one years of age. Forth. Provided that if Either of my children Myron G. or Jamie F. shall not live to the age of twenty one years the Five thousand Dolls shall be paid to the Survivor when he shall become twenty one years of age. Fifth. If my children Myron G. and Jamie F. should both die before they arrive at the age of twenty one years my Executor or his successor in office shall pay to my mother Mary Green one share I.E. Two thousand five hundred Dolls. Sixth. If my son Myron G. and Jamie F. and my mother Mary Green should all die before my children should become twenty one years of age the Executor of his successor in office shall pay to my sister Sophia Williams wife of Frank Williams the one share, Two thousand five hundred Dolls. or to her heirs

                Whereas, I Margaret B. Washburne of Gorham, Ont. Co. N.Y. have made my last Will and testament in writing bearing date the twelvth day of August 1878 in and by which I have given and bequeathed to my son Myron G. and my son Jamie F. Washburne two thousand five hundred Dolls each at the age of twenty one years, now therefore I do by this my writing which I hereby declare to be a codicil to my said last will and testament and to be taken as a part thereof order that my husband Ira G. Washburne shall retain as legacy two thousand five hundred Dolls If my sons Myron G and Jamie F. Washburne should die before they arrive to the age of twenty one years and lastly it is my desire that this codicil be annexed and made a part of my last Will and testament as aforesaid to all interests and purposes. In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this thirteenth day of August (1878) one thousand Eight hundred and seventy Eight.

                                                                                                                                                Margaret B. Washburne                (seal)

The above instrument is written on the same paper with the Will continuing two sheets was at the date thereof signed sealed published and declared by the said Margaret B. Washburne as and for a codicil to her last Will and testament and she at the same time acknowledged to us and to Each of us that she had signed and sealed the same and we thereupon at her request and in her presence and in the presence of Each other signed our names thereto as attesting witnesses.

                                                                William Sheehan, Gorham, Ontario Co. N.Y.

                                                                Emmaline A. Ketcham Gorham On. Co. N.Y.

 

[In the second section shall pay was inserted before the Ensealing of this Instrument] Likewise I make constitute and appoint Ira G Washburne my husband to be Executor of this my last Will and Testament hereby revoking all former Wills by me made. In witness whereof, I have hereunto subscribed my name and affixed my seal the twelvth day of August in the year of our Lord one thousan and Eight hundred and seventy Eight.

                                                                                                                                                Margaret B. Washburne                (seal)

The above instrument consisting of two sheet was at the date thereof subscribed by Margaret B Washburne in the presence of us and each of us she at the time of making such subscription acknowledged that she made the same and declared the said instrument so subscribed by her to be her last Will and Testament. Whereupon we then and there at her request and in her presence and the presence of each other subscribed our names as Witnesses thereto.

                                                                George T. Washburn residing at Gorham N.Y.

                                                                William Sheehan residing at Gorham N.Y.

 

Proofs of Margaret B. Washburns will, 8 May 1879

Regarding the Will of Margaret B. Washburn of Gorham, deceased, with citation issued 24 Feb. 1879, and upon the petition of Ira G. Washburn dated 18 Mar. 1879, the executor named in the will. Minors are Myron G. Washburn and Jamie F. Washburn, who have no guardian, so C.B. Lapham Esq. was appointed as special guardian.

George T. Washburn of Gorham, Ontario County, and William Sheehan, of Potter, Yates County, gave their deposition that they knew the testatrix, and witnessed her sign and seal the will on 12 Aug. 1878, and that they also subscribed their names as witnesses at that time. William Ketchum represented Margaret B. Washburn at the time of the signing of the will. William Sheehan and Emmaline Ketchum witnessed the signing of the codicil on 13 Aug. 1878.

William Ketchum, Justice of the Peace, gave a deposition that he wrote the will on 12 Aug. 1878, and the codicil on 13 Aug. 1878, at the request of the testatrix, and did insert the codicil into the will using the space at the bottom and continuing on the back side of the first page, at the request of the testatrix, and also witnessed the signing and witnessing of both the will and the codicil.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Ontario County Probate Wills Vol. 61, p. 71-73, and Wills Vol. 56, p. 565-566.

 

 

Will of Mary L. Washburn of Winfield, Herkimer County, New York (1877) *

I Mary L Washburn of Winfield Herkimer County and State of New York and being of sound mind and memory Do make publish and declare this my last will and Testament in manner following

   First I give and bequeath to my Husband George W Washburn, all my real and personal property of every name and nature whom I hereby appoint sole Executor of this my last Will and Testament hereby revoking all former wills by me made.

        In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this Tenth day of December one Thousand Eight hundred Seventy-seven

                                                                                                                                                Mary L. Washburn                          (seal)

The above instrument consisting of one sheet was at the date thereof signed, sealed published and declared by the said Mary L Washburn as and for her last Will and Testament in in presence of us, who at her request and in her presence and in the presence of each other have subscribed our names as witnesses thereto

Peter Haslehurst Winfield Herkimer Co N.Y.

A. A. Moors Winfield Herkimer Co N.Y.

 

Charles D Thomas Esq of the town of Winfield, County of Herkimer, testified to the signature of Peter Haselhurst, late of the town of Winfield, on 25 Feb. 1892. Alfred A Moors of Winfield, County of Herkimer, testified on 25 Feb. 1892 that he witnessed the will of Mary L Washburn late of the town of Southington, Conn., and that the other witness, Peter W Haselhurst is dead. Martha J Woodart of the town of Winfield, County of Herkimer, also testified that she was well acquainted with Mary L Washburn late of Southington in the State of Connecticut, and verified her handwriting and signature.

 

Letters Testamentary on the estate of Mary L Washburn late of Southington, Conn., who died seized of Real Estate situated in Herkimer County was granted to George W Washburn of Southington, Conn, on 25 Feb. 1892.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Herkimer County Probate Wills Vol. Z, p. 483-485, and Letters Testamentary Vol. K, p. 343.

 

 

Will of Mary R. Washburn of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1878) *

I Mary R. Washburn, wife of Nahum Washburn Jr. of Bridgewater in the County of Plymouth & Commonwealth of Massachusetts, make, publish & declare the following as my last will & testament.

1st. I give and bequeath one half of the personal property of which I may die possessed or to which I may be legally entitled, including therein all my jewelry, plate, gold watch and chain, and articles of personal adornment, to my mother Mrs Sophia W. Reed to be kept by her in trust until my daughter Sophia C. Washburn shall reach the age of twenty one years, and then to pay over and deliver the same to her – and until my said daughter shall have reached said age to pay over to her the income which may be derived from any portion of said property.

Should my said daughter die under the age of twenty one years leaving no children living at the time of her decease I direct my said trustee to divide said property and effects in her hands equally among my brothers then living and the children of any deceased brother, said children to take by right of representation.

2. In case of the decease of my mother before my said daughter shall have reached the age of twenty one years, I appoint the eldest of my brothers then living who will accept the trust as her successor in said trust, & I make the like appointment in case of any vacancy.

3. I appoint my said mother Sophia W. Reed Executrix of this my will and request that neither she nor any of my brothers be required to furnish securities on their official bonds either as executors or trustees.

        In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand & seal this       day of June A.D. 1878.

Martha Howard                                                                                                                   Mary R. Washburn                          (seal)

Mary E. Howard

Signed, sealed, published & declared by the said Mary R. Washburn as & for her last will & testament in the presence of us, who in her presence & in the presence of each other have hereunto subscribed our names as attesting witnesses.

                                                                                                                Mary E. Howard

                                                                                                                Martha Howard

                                                                                                                Nahum Washburn Jr.

 

Presented for probate on the second Monday of Sept. 1878 by Sophia W. Reed, of West Bridgewater, without giving any surety on her bond. Letters Testamentary were granted to Sophia W. Reed on 9 Sept. 1878.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 142, p. 553, from FHL microfilm #0556649, and Vol. 149, p. 2.

 

 

Will of Matilda Washburn of Jay, Essex County, New York (1883) *

      I, Matilda Washburn of the town of Jay county of Essex State of New York being of sound mind and memory, do make, ordain, publish and declare this to be my last Will and Testament, that is to say:

      First, After all my lawful debts are paid and discharges, I give, devise and bequeath To Cassius Mussen all my personal and real estate

      Likewise, I make, constitute and appoint Horace Sheldon of the town Jay Essex County New York, to be executor of this my last will and testament, hereby revoking all former wills be me made.

      In Witness Whereof, I have hereunto subscribed my name and affixed my seal, the 29th day of August in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and eighty three.

                                                                                                            Mrs. Matilda Washburn            (seal)

The above instrument consisting of one sheet, was at the date thereof subscribed by Matilda Washburn in the presence of us and each of us: she at the time of making such subscription, acknowledged that she made the same, and declared the said instrument so subscribed by her, to be her last will and testament. Whereupon we then and there, at her request, and in her presence and the presence of each other, subscribed our names as witnesses thereto.

                Pamelia Storrs, residing at Jay, N.Y.

                Ella White, residing at Jay, N.Y.

 

Probated on 24 Nov. 1896, proved by Ella Buck, residing in the town of North Elba in the County of Essex, who signed as witness as Ella White but has since married, and Pamela Storrs the other witness having died on or about the 5th day of February, 1891. Matilda’s name given as Matilda Washbond in the proving of the will.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Essex County Probate, Wills Vol. M, p. 133-135, from FHL microfilm #0866335.

 

 

Will of Miles Washburn of Lenox, Berkshire County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1876) *

Know all Men by these Presents – that I Miles Washburn of Lenox County of Berkshire & State of Massachusetts being of sound mind & memory blessed be God for the same do make publish & declare this my last Will & Testament as follows viz 1st I direct that all my just debts & funeral charges be paid by my executor.

2nd I give & bequeath to my beloved wife Emily Washburn all my Personal Estate of whatsoever name or nature for & during the term of her natural Life & at her decease I give & bequeath three fourths of sd. personal estate to my son George T. Washburn to him & his heirs forever.  3rd. I give & bequeath the rest & residue of my property to my son Edwin M. Washburn together with the remaining fourth part of personal property at my wifes decease to him & his heirs forever

And I do hereby constitute & appoint my son Edwin M. Washburn my sole executor of this my last Will & Testament – In Witness I have hereunto set my hand & seal this 16th day of March 1876

                                                                                                                                                Miles Washburn                               (seal)

Signed sealed published & declared by the above named Miles Washburn to be his last Will & Testament in our presence who in his presence & at his request & in presence of each other have have hereunto set our names as witnesses.

        Thos Sedgwick

        Thos A. Graham

        Henry Sedgwick

 

Presented for probate on 5 Sept. 1882 by Edwin M. Washburn of Lenox, with Frederic Washburn and Henry Sedgwick of Lenox as sureties.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Berkshire County Probate Wills Vol. 121, p. 565-566, from FHL microfilm #1750454.

 

 

Will of Miles Washburn of Exeter, Otsego County, New York (1836) *

State of New York

Otsego County Ss. Be it remembered that at a Surrogate Court held at the Surrogates Office in the Village of Cooperstown in & for the County of Otsego on the twenty ninth day of October in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred & thirtysix before George A. Starkweather Surrogate of the said County the last will and Testament of Miles Washburn late of the said County deceased a Copy whereof is hereunto annexed was duly admitted to probate after a citation to the widow and next of kin to the said deceased, deposed, served returned & filed according to law, where upon at the place and on the day aforesaid the following witness makes after having been duly sworn by the said Surrogate testifies as follows viz.

In the Matter of proving the last will and testament of Miles Washburn deceased.

Otsego County Ss. Be it remembered that on this twenty ninth day of October in the year one thousand eight hundred & thirty six before George A. Starkweather Surrogate of the County of Otsego personally appeared William Park who before the said Surrogate duly sworn and examined doth depose and say that this Deponent was well acquainted with Miles Washburn that he was present as a witness & did see the said Miles Washburn deceased subscribe at the end thereof the instrument so produced & shown to this deponent purporting to be the last will & testament of the said Miles Washburn deceased bearing date the first day of August in the year one thousand eight hundred & thirty six, that such subscription was made by the said Testator in the presence of this deponent, that the said Testator at the same time declared the instrument so subscribed by him to be his last will & testament—Whereupon this deponent signed his name to the end thereof at the request of the said Testator, that the said Testator at the time of executing & publishing the said last will & Testament was of full op. of sound mind & memory not under any restraint—and this deponent saith that he drew the last will & testament of the said Miles Washburn, that after the same was executed by said Miles Washburn it was sealed up by this deponent and handed back to said Miles Washburn now deceased and he said Miles passed the same over to Timothy C. Taylor the Executor in said will named—

Sworn before me this                                                                                                          William Park

29th day of October 1836

Geo. A. Starkweather, Surrogate

In the Matter of proving the last Will & testament of Miles Washburn deceased} Otsego County

                Timothy C. Taylor being sworn saith that the last will & testament of the said Miles Washburn was handed over to this deponent on the day the same was executed by the said Miles as he believes, sealed up and this deponent has had the same in his possession untill he produced the same to the Surrogate for probate & further saith not

Sworn before me this 29 Oct.                                                                                            Timothy C. Taylor

1836  Geo. A. Starkweather Surrogate

                Whereupon I the Surrogate aforesaid upon the proof aforesaid being satisfied of the ______ and validity of the said Will do therefore order that the same be admitted to probate and that letter testamentary thereof be granted to                                            the Executor in said will named after the expiration of thirty days from the time of making this order and taking and subscribing the oath of office prescribed by law—In testimony whereof we have caused the seal of office of our said Surrogate to be hereunto affixed.

                Witness Geo. A. Starkweather Surrogate of the said County of Otsego the day and year first above written.                  Geo. A Starkweather Surrogate

 

State of New York

Otsego County Ss.               I Miles Washburn of the Town of Exeter in the County and State aforesaid by this my last will and testament I devise all that certain tract or parcel of land in the Town of Exeter and Plainfield in said County on which I now reside & occupy being all the lands I own to my sons Miles Washburn [sic—see my note below] equally and I also give and bequeath unto my said sons all my personal property equally with the exception of my household furniture, beds bedding, cooking utinsels—I give and bequeath unto my beloved wife Polly in lieu of the Dower her support out of my property during her natural life or so long as she shall remain my widow—I give and bequeath unto my son Miles Washburn Junior Three hundred & fifty Dollars. I give and bequeath unto my son Isaac Washburn the sum of three hundred & fifty Dollars—I also give & bequeath unto my Daughter Polly Ann Washburn the sum of three hundred Dollars—I give and bequeath unto my five Daughters Eliza Ann, Permelia, Cornelia, Laura and Patience Washburn the sum of one hundred & fifty Dollars each. I further give and bequeath unto my Daughter Sarah Williams the sum of Fifty Dollars, the said sum of fifty Dollars shall not draw interest and to be paid until all debts owed by me at the time of my decease Shall be paid—I further order that my six Daughters viz. Polly Ann, Eliza Ann, Amelia [sic], Cornelia, Laura and Patience shall have a home upon the premises above bequeathed to Miles Washburn Junior Isaac Washburn and Jacob Washburn so long as they shall remain unmarried and shall be taken care of when sick—and I further order that my said Daughters Polly Ann, Eliza Ann, Pamelia, Cornelia, Laura & Patience shall have two beds each and the bedding for the same out of my present household furniture at such time as they marry or choose to removed. I further order that all debts due me at my decease shall be collected and applied to the discharge of the debts that I may be owing at the time of my decease, I further order that my sons Miles Washburn Junior Isaac Washburn and Jacob Washburn above named shall take care of and support my wife Polly during her natural life or so long as she shall remain my widow and in case they the said Miles Washburn and Jacob Washburn shall fail to support her the said Polly as above directed she shall be entitled to her Dower out of my lands above bequeathed—I further order that my sons Miles Washburn Junior, Isaac Washburn and Jacob Washburn shall possess my estate real and personal after paying all the debts chargable thereon and against my said Estate and also paying the several legacies above mentioned—And I do further order that if any of my above named sons or daughters shall bring any account against my said Estate after my decease for services rendered to me since any of them have become of age or twenty one years old they shall forfeit any devise or legacy that is above devised or bequeathed and his or her said devize or legacy shall be equally divided between the remainder of my said children. I hereby nominate & appoint Timothy C. Taylor of the Town of Plainfield in said County to be the sole Executor of this my last will and Testament, hereby revoking all other or former wills by me made—

In testimony whereof I have this first day of August in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred thirty six at Exeter aforesaid and in the presence of each of the attesting witnesses have hereunto subscribed my name—and affixed my seal hereby declaring this instrument so subscribed to be my last will & testament and requesting William Park of Burlington in the County aforesaid and Nathan Brainard of Exeter aforesaid to sign their names respectfully as witnesses at the end of this my said will.

                                                                                                                                                Miles Washburn                               (seal)

Subscribed and sealed by the said Testator

at the end thereof in the presence of the undersigned

attesting Witnesses, the said testator at the time

of making the said subscription declaring the

above instrument so subscribed to be his last will

and testament, and each of the undersigned attesting

witnesses then & there signing his name at the end of

the said Will at the request of the said Testator in his

presence & in the presence of each other

                William Park, Burlington, Otsego County

                Nathan Brainard, Exeter, Otsego County

 

State of New York

Otsego County} I certify that the within will was duly admitted to probate on the twenty ninth day of October in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred & thirty six

                                                                                                                                                Geo. A. Starkweather Surrogate

State of New York

Otsego County

                I certify the foregoing to be a true record of the proceedings had before me in the matter of proving the last will and Testament of the personal estate of Miles Washburn deceased

                                                                                                                                                Geo. A. Starkweather Surrogate

Otsego County Ss. Be it remembered that at a Surrogate Court held at the Surrogates office in the Village of Cooperstown in & for the County of Otsego on the 29th day of October 1836 before George A. Starkweather Surrogate

                In the Matter of proving the last will and Testament of Miles Washburn Deceased}

                Comes Timothy C. Taylor Executor named in the last will and testament of the said Miles Washburn Deceased, and informs the said Court that notice has been given pursuant to the Statuetes in such case made and provided of his intention of proving the said last will and Testament of the said Deceased and the said Timothy C. Taylor brings into Court a notice of his intention signed by him said Timothy C. Taylor with the affidavits of the said Timothy C. Taylor and Philo R. Cole proving our service of said notice on all the heirs at Law of the said deceased which notice our affidavits are in records & figures following to wit.

Surrogate Court.   In the Matter of proving the Will of the Real estate of Miles Washburn Deceased}  To the heirs at Law of the said Miles Washburn Deceased, Please to take notice that I the undersigned Executor of the last Will and Testament of the said Miles Washburn late of the Town of Exeter in the County of Otsego Deceased bearing date the first day of August in the year one thousand eight hundred & thirty six intend to apply to the Surrogate of the County of Otsego at the Surrogates office in the Village of Cooperstown on the twenty ninth day of October next at ten O’clock in the fore noon of that day to have the said Will & Testament of the said Deceased proved before the said Court according to the Statute in such cases made & provided dated 5th Sept. 1836—                                                                                                                                  Timothy C. Taylor

Otsego County Ss. Timothy C. Taylor having sworn saith that on the twelfth day of October 1836 he personally serviced a copy of the within notice upon Miles Washburn, Isaac Washburn, Polly Ann Washburn, Elizabeth Washburn, & Caleb Burlingham, the guardian for Jacob Permelia Cornelia, Laura and Patience Washburn _____ sworn before me this 29th day of October 1836.                                                                                                                                                    Geo. A. Starkweather

                                                                                                                                                Timothy C. Taylor

State of New York City & County of Albany, Philo R. Cole of the City of Albany being duly sworn says that he is foreman in the office of the Albany Argus and that the notice of which the annexed is a printed copy has been regularly published in said Albany Argus once in each week for six weeks successively commencing on the thirteenth day of September last past, sworn before me the 25th day of October 1836                                                                                   Philo R. Cole

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Otsego County Wills and Administrations, Book 3, 1836-1840, pp. 46-51, from FHL microfilm #0947167. An important line from the will was apparently missed in transcribing the will into the probate book wherein Miles Washburn left all his land to his sons Miles Washburn Junior, Isaac Washburn, and Joshua Washburn equally, such that the transcriber wrote only “to my sons Miles Washburn equally,” but reading further into the will the names of his two other sons are mentioned several other times, so the intended meaning of the testator can be inferred. Note also that daughter Permelia’s name is transcribed as Amelia in one spot, and Pamelia in another spot. In addition to what I have transcribed here, there is one more deposition taken from the witness Nathan Brainard, which repeats what was said by William Park, and adds nothing new to the information already given. Some of the handwriting in this probate book is difficult.

 

 

Will of Morgan Washburn of Bedford, Westchester County, New York (1894) *

The last Will and Testament of Morgan Washburn of the Town of Bedford (formerly of the Town of New Castle) Westchester County and State of New York.

                                I Morgan Washburn make this my last Will and Testament as follows:

First: I direct that my funeral charges the expense of administering my Estate, and my debts be paid as soon as practicable after my decease.

Second:– I give and bequeath unto George K. Carpenter of the Town of New Castle Westchester County New York, son of Ezra Carpenter deceased my house and lot situated near the Friends Meeting House in Chappaqua New York with full power to sell and dispose of the same as he shall deem best.

Third:– I give devise and bequeath all the rest residue and remainder of my estate both real and personal unto Sarah Knox of Bedford, Westchester County, New York Widow of George H. Knox deceased.

Lastly:– I appoint Sarah Knox aforesaid and William Hallock of the Town of New Castle Westchester County New York to be Executors of this my last Will and Testament, giving and granting unto my said Executors power to sell all my real Estate excepting that bequeathed unto George K. Carpenter aforesaid and I hereby revoke all former Wills by me made

                In Witness whereof I have hereunto subscribed my name this second day of February in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and ninety four.

Witnesses                                                                                                                              Morgan Washburn                          (seal)

George H. Knapp

Alvaro J. Adams

subscribed by Morgan Washburn the Testator named in the foregoing Will in the presence of each of us and at the time of making such subscription the above instrument was declared by the said Testator to be his last Will and Testament and each of us at the request of said Testator and in his presence and in the presence of each other sign our names as Witnesses thereto at the end of the Will.

George H. Knapp Mt Kisco New York

Alvaro J Adams Mt Kisco N.Y.

 

Presented for probate on 18 Mar. 1895 by Sarah Knox and William Hallock, the Executors named in the last Will and Testament of Morgan Washburn late of the Town of Bedford County of Westchester deceased, and proved by Alvaro J Adams of the Town of New Castle, and George H. Knapp of the Town of Bedford, on 6 May 1895. Approved on 6 May 1895.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Westchester County Probate Wills Vol. 124, p. 92-97.

 

 

Will of Nahum Washburn of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1880) *

I Nahum Washburn of Bridgewater in the County of Plymouth being of sound and disposing mind and memory do make and declare this my last will and testament.

I give devise and bequeath all my estate real, personal and mixed of every name, nature sort and description, wherever the same may be found, situated or located, to my wife Christiana Washburn. To have and to hold the same to her and her heirs and assigns forever.

   I appoint my said wife the said Christiana Washburn executrix of this my last will and testament, and it is my will, request, desire and direction that no surety or sureties shall be required of her on her official bond as such Executrix.

   I give nothing to either of my children intentionally having full confidence that my wife will do what is right.

   In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand this tenth day of January in the year eighteen hundred and eighty.

   Signed, published acknowledged and declared by the said Nahum Washburn as and for his last will and testament in the presence of us who at his request and in his presence have hereto set our names as witnesses.

                                                                                                                                                Nahum Washburn

   Henry Harlow

   Edward E. Hobart

   Hosea Kingman

 

Presented for probate on the second Monday of Feb. 1884 by Christiana Washburn, of Bridgewater. Letters Testamentary were granted to Christiana Washburn, the executrix, on 11 Feb. 1884.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 164, p. 126-127, from FHL microfilm #0556659, and Vol. 156, p. 110.

 

 

Will of Nancy P. Washburn of Minot, Androscoggin County, Maine (1876) *

                Know All Men By These Presents.

That I, Nancy P. Washburn of Minot in the County of Androscoggin and state of Maine, widow, being of sound disposing mind and memory, do make and publish this my last Will and Testament.

                1st.  I give and bequeath to my son Samuel L. Washburn five dollars

                2d.   I give and bequeath to my grandson Charles Cyrus Washburn, son of Cyrus Washburn Jr. deceased, five dollars

                3d.   I give and bequeath to my daughterinlaw Elizabeth Ann Merrill wife of Moses C. Merrill three hundred dollars.

                4th.  I give and bequeath to my daughter Maria W. Munroe, wife of Noble N. Munroe, four hundred dollars.

                5th.  I give, bequeath and devise to my daughter Abby D. Holbrook, wife of Charles Holbrook all the rest and residue of my estate, real and personal, after payment of my debts and legacies.

                6th.  I ordain and appoint my daughter Abby D. Holbrook as executrix of this my last will and Testament.

                In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal and publish and declare this to be my last Will and Testament in the presence of the witnesses named below this twenty fifth day of October in the year one thousand eight hundred and seventy-six

                                                                                                                                                Nancy P. Washburn                        (seal)

                Signed, sealed, published and declared by the said Nancy P. Washburn as and for her last Will & Testament in presence of us who in her presence, have subscribed out names as witnesses hereto –

                                                                                                                                                Stillman W. Shaw

                                                                                                                                                John M. Perry

                                                                                                                                                Hattie A. Perry

 

Presented for probate on the second Tuesday of Dec. 1884 by Abby D. Holbrook of Auburn, the Executrix. Nancy P. Washburn, of Minot, died on 27 Oct. 1884.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Androscoggin County Probate Records Vol. 7, p. 6, from FHL microfilm #43391105, and Probate of Wills Vol. 2, p. 350.

 

 

Will of Nehemiah Washburn of Macomb, St. Lawrence Co., New York (1880) *

In the name of God Amen – I Nehemiah Washburn of the town of Macomb, in the County of St Lawrence and State of New York of the age of Eighty five years and being of sound mind & memory, do make, publish and declare this my last will and testament in manner following that is to say –

First – I give and bequeath to my daughter Minerva Stanton all my real and personal estate of every name and nature, conditioned that said Minerva is not to sell or dispose of any real estate, but to use and occupy the same during her life time and at her death said real estate to belong to her heirs

Lastly I hereby appoint David Day 2d Sole Executor of this my last will and testament hereby revoking all former wills by me made –

    In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this 20th day of July, one thousand eight hundred and eighty, erasures made before signing

                                                                                                                                                Nehemiah Washburn                      (seal)

The foregoing instrument consisting of one sheet was at the date thereof signed, sealed, published and declared by the said Nehemiah Washburn as and for his last will and testament in presence of us who at his request and in his presence and in the presence of each other have subscribed our names as witnesses thereto.

Lucinda Day – Residing at Macomb in St Lawrence County N.Y

Susanna Raven Residency at Macomb in St Lawrence County N.Y.

 

Presented for probate on 24 Nov. 1886 by David Day 2d, the Executor, listing his heirs as Maryette Shippe of Spragueville N.Y., Alida Clute, Almira Stanton, John Washburn and Alonzo Washburn, all of Macomb, N.Y.

 

David Day 2d was granted Letters Testamentary on the Estate of Nehemiah Washburn on 10 Jan. 1887.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from St. Lawrence County Probate Wills Vol. 21, p. 531-532, from FHL microfilm #0890027, and Letters Testamentary Vol. 8, p. 447.

 

 

Will of Oliver Washburn of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1818) *

        In the name of God amen. I Oliver Washburn of Bridgewater in the County of Plymouth, Commonwealth of Massachusetts being now of a disposing Mind & Memory thanks be given to God, yet calling to Mind the mortality of my Body and knowing that it is appointed for all men once to die do now make & ordain this my last will & Testament ie. Principally & first of all I commend my spirit into the hands of that God who gave it, & my Body to the dust, to be buried, with Christian decent Burial at the discretion of my Executor hereafter named, as to such worldly Estate wherewith it hath pleased God to bless me in this life, I give demise & dispose of the same in the following manner and form. Tis my will that all my debts & funeral Charges be well & truly paid in convenient Time after my decease—

        I give and bequeath unto my well beloved Wife Mary and to her Children, all my Estate both real and personal, excepting the Daughters who will share one half as much as the Boys—

        I give & bequeath my children by my first wife, viz. Thomas, Ruel, Eliab, Oliver & Chloe two Dollars each & no more—

        I constitute & appoint my Brother Sears Washburn, sole Executor of this my last Will and Testament, and order him to pay all my Debts, the several Legacies specified and to fulfill this my last Will and Testament. In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand & seal this twenty third day of May 1818—

signed, sealed, published declared &

pronounced in presence of us

Samuel Shaw                                                                                                                        Oliver Washburn             (seal)

Hannah W. Adams

Zebulun L Shaw

 

The will was proved on 17 Aug. 1818, and Sears Washburn, the executor, was appointed to administer upon the estate. Mary Washburn, widow of Oliver Washburn, waived the provision made for her in the will and claimed her dower of his estate on 15 Aug. 1818.

 

On 5 Oct. 1818 Benjamin Pope, Joseph Hooper, and Silvanus Pratt, gentlemen all of Bridgewater, were appointed as a committee to set off by metes & bounds one third part of all the real estate of Oliver Washburn late of Bridgewater, yeoman, unto his widow Mary Washburn as her Dower in said real estate.

On 18 Jan. 1819 Sears Washburn declared he expected the estate of Oliver Washburn late of Bridgewater to be insolvent. Benjamin Pope and Silvanus Pratt of Bridgewater, gentlemen, were appointed as commissioners to receive and examine all claims against the estate of Oliver Washburn so that distribution may be made to said creditors.

Petition of Sears Washburn, Executor of the last will & Testament of Oliver Washburn late of Bridgewater, dated 1 Feb. 1819, that “the personal Estate of said deceased is insufficient by the sum of $1600 to pay all the just Debts, which it will be necessary to sell the whole real estate & a part cannot be sold without great injury to the residence,” therefore asked the court for permission to sell the real estate.

On 15 Feb. 1819 Sears Washburn was granted license to sell the real estate of Oliver Washburn, late of Bridgewater, and the reversion of the widow’s dower, and to distribute the proceeds proportionately to the creditors. On 3 Mar. 1819 Sears Washburn, Executor, gave notice of the public auction of the estate of Oliver Washburn, late of Bridgewater, to be held on Wednesday, 7 Apr. 1819.

The list of claimants of the estate of Oliver Washburn, recorded 20 Dec. 1819, included:

Chloe Washburn’s legacy on account of her uncle Thomas Fobes of $118.77

Chloe Washburn’s legacy on account of her grandmother Fobes of $15.55

Thomas Washburn’s legacy on account of his uncle Thomas Fobes of $118.77

Thomas Washburn’s legacy on account of his grandmother Fobes of $15.55

Reuel Washburn’s legacy on account of his uncle [sic, grandmother?] Fobes of $15.55

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 49, p. 417-419, Vol. 50, pp. 47-49, 268, 451-457, all from FHL microfilm #0550905.

 

 

Will of Oliver Washburn of Village of Sing Sing, Ossining, Westchester County, New York (1872) *

                                In the name of God Amen  I Oliver Washburn of the Village of Sing Sing County of Westchester and State of New York of the age of seventy five years and being of sound mind and memory, do make publish and declare this my last Will and testament in manner following that is to say.

                                First.  I give and bequeath to my daughter Eliza Washburn one Bureau one trunk one bedstead one bed and bedding for the same sufficient for all seasons of the year and all of good quality.

                                Second.  I give and devise to my wife Emeline Washburn the remainder of my household furniture my clothes and all the moveables in the garret cellar and barn.

                                Third.  I hereby empower and request my executor to sell all my real estate at public auction in or about ninety days after my death and to invest all monies arising from such sale together with the proceeds of all the residue and remainder of my personal estate of every name and nature whatsoever on Bond and mortgage on unencumbered real estate and not in excess of two thirds of the cash value of the property on which investment is made.

                                Fourth.  I give and bequeath to my said wife Emeline Washburn the interest of the monies arising from the sale of my real and personal estate and I request my executor to pay the same to her annually during her natural life.

                                Fifth.  After the death of my said wife I give and devise and devise to my daughter Phebe Washburn wife of William C. Washburn Fifty dollars and to my grand daughter Clara Adelia Perry fifty dollars. The balance of monies then remaining and I give and bequeath equally to my son George Washburn my daughter Martha F. Montross wife of Charles Augustus Montross my daughter Emeline Little wife of John Little and my daughter Eliza Washburn share and share alike.

                                Sixth.  I hereby request that if my executor in the exercise of prudent discretion shall invest the proceeds of my estate or any part thereof in Bond and Mortgage on village property on houses and lots that in every such case he shall require that the mortgage contain the insurance clause and the Policy of insurance be held by him as collateral security.

                                Seventh.  I hereby request my Executor to deposit the share of daughter Eliza Washburn in the Sing Sing Savings Bank in trust for her and to pay her the interest thereof annually. And should any emergency occur to render it necessary I hereby request my executor to pay her so much of the principle as may be necessary to meet any and all such emergencies.

                                Eighth.  I hereby appoint David Reed of Sing Sing aforesaid the sole executor of this my last Will and Testament hereby revoking all former Wills by me made.

                In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal the seventeenth day of February in the year of our — one thousand eight hundred and seventy two.

                                                                                                                                                Oliver Washburn                             (seal)

The above instrument consisting of one sheet was at the date thereof signed sealed published and declared by the said Oliver Washburn as and for his last Will and testament in presence of us who at his request and in his presence and in the presence of each other have subscribed our names as witnesses thereto.

                                Stephen Ayles residing in Mount Pleasant Westchester Co. N.Y.

                                B.G. Sarles residing in Sing Sing Westchester County State of N.Y.

 

David Reed, the Executor, petitioned for probate of the will of Oliver Washburn, late of Ossining, on 18 Apr. 1872.  Dwight S. Herrick was appointed as Special Guardian for Eliza Washburn, a minor. Probate was set for 22 May 1872.

 

Proved on 22 May 1872 by Bartholomew G. Sarles of the town of Ossining, and Stephen Ayles of the town of Mount Pleasant.

 

Letters of Administration were granted to David Reed, Executor of the estate of Oliver Washburn, late of the town of Ossining, on 22 May 1872.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Westchester County Probate, Wills Vol. 67, p. 77-83, and Letters Testamentary Vol. K, p. 107.

 

 

Will of Oliver J. Washburn of Mount Pleasant, Westchester County, New York (1878) *

        I Oliver J Washburn of the Town of Mount Pleasant county of Westchester and State of New York mindful of the uncertainties of human life do make publish and declare this my last Will and Testament in manner following

First I direct my Executors and Executrix hereinafter named to pay all my just debts and funeral expense

Second I give devise and bequeath to my wife Emily T Washburn one half of all my estate both real and personal

Third I give devise and bequeath to my Executors and executrix hereinafter named one half of all my estate both real and personal in trust to receive the interest rents issues and profits arising therefrom and apply the same to the support maintenance and education of my daughter Olive J Washburn until she shall arive at the age of twenty one years

Fourth when my said daughter shall arive at the age of twenty one years I direct my executors and executrix hereinafter named to pay over and convey to my said daughter the one half of my estate let to them in trust for her

Fifth In case of the death of my said daughter before she arives at the age of twenty one years and leaves no heirs then I direct my executor and executrix to pay over to my brothers and sisters, Morgan, Benjamin S Oscar and Isaac T. and Ellen and Mary Eurily? or their heirs also the heirs of my sister Aby Jane (deceased) (they to have her share) The one half of my estate let to them in trust for my daughter Olive J Washburn for ever share & share alike and direct my executors to pay over and convey the same to them

Sixth I hereby authorize and direct my Executors and executrix hereinafter named to sell and dispose of my real estate and stocks as soon after my death as they shall deem advisable and give a good and sufficient deed or deeds of conveyance of the same and pay over to my said wife one half the perceeds arrising from such sale and invest the other one half for the purpose of the trust as herein before provided

Seventh I hereby nominate and appoint my wife Emily T Washburn executrix and my brother Isaac T Washburn and my brother in law Amos R Clark Executors of this my last Will and testament

In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this 16th day of September 1878

                                                                                                                                                Oliver J Washburn                          (seal)

Signed published and declared by the said testator to be his last Will & testament in the presence of us who have signed our names at his request as witnesses in his presence and in presence of each other

Morgan Washburn

Lemuel O Washburn

 

Presented for probate on 10 Oct. 1878 by Isaac T. Washburn, one of the Executors, and proved by Lemuel O Washburn of the town of Mount Pleasant and Morgan Washburn of the town of New Castle on 18 Oct. 1878. William M. Skinner was appointed as special guardian for the minors of the deceased.

 

Letters of Testamentary on the estate of Oliver J Washburn, late of Mt Pleasant, were granted to Emily T Washburn and Isaac T Washburn, Executrix and Executor, on 18 Oct. 1878.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Weschester County Probate, Wills Vol. 86, p. 199-205, and Letters Testamentary Vol. M, p. 141.

 

 

Will of Peter Washburn of Dartmouth, Bristol County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1806) *

                In the name of God Amen this twentieth day of March 1806 I Peter Washburn of Dartmouth in the County of Bristol and Commonwealth of Massachusetts Yeoman Being far Advanced in years by Nature decaying But of a Sound Mine and Memory which I thank God for, calling to Mind the Mortality of the Body, and knowing it is appointed for man once to die Do Make and ordain this my Last Will and and [sic] testament first and principally of all to commit my soul to God that gave it and my Body to the dust to be Decently Buried by my Executor hereafter Named by as touching such Worldly Estate as the lord hath been pleased to bless me with I do dispose of in the following manner after my funeral charges & just Debts is paid.

                In Primus I give & Bequeath to my Beloved son Ira Washburn the north part of that farm North of the Road that leads from the Mills to the Meeting house that he now Lives on with all the privaledges to the same belonging free and clear to him his heirs & assigns forever, to his Disposal together with the remainder of said farm and my homested farm stock and farming tools to come into possession of immediately after my Decease, All except What I shall reserve the Improvement of to my two daughters, viz—Deborah Washburn & Margaret Washburn during their Natural Lives, together with the stock that I shall give to them free and clear to their disposal, After them to him My beloved son Ira Washburn free and clear to him his heirs and assigns forever.

                Item I Give and bequeath to the heirs of my Beloved daughter Anna Shearman Dec. Viz Ebenezer Shearman, Ruben Shearman, and thurston Shearman, One dollar Each to be paid in One year after my Decease by my Executor.

                Item I give and Bequeath to my Beloved daughter Deborah Washburn all my indoor movables except what I Shall Hereafter reserve to my daughter Margaret Washburn, together with my Looms and all the tackling to them belonging with all my wearing apparel to her heirs and assigns forever.

                Item I give and bequeath to my Beloved daughter Margaret Washburn one feather bed and furniture and a chest with a drans[?] free and clear forever with the use and improvement of my household furniture during her Natural Live or What she needs for her comfort.

                Item I Give and Bequeath to my two daughters Deborah & Margaret Equally between them One Cow, five sheep, one Swine free and clear to their disposal together with a privaledge to keep said stock on the homestead farm having an Equal chance with the other stock that is kept on said farm and it is my Will that there be no more stock but that the above mentioned will be kept Well yearly together with the use and improvement of my dwelling house Barn and other out houses and Orchard with the privaledge and improvement of the Square beginning at the Northwest corner of the orchard Southwardly to the road and by and with with [sic] the road till it Comes to the east End of the barn from thence to the first mentioned corner to be as Wide on the road as from the North east Corner of the barn to the north west Corner of the orchard to have the improve of the above Square with all the privaledges to it belonging during their Natural lives.

                Item I Give and Bequeath to the heirs of my Beloved Daughter Rhobe Chase viz. Amasa Chase & Ichabod Chase, one dollar each and ten dollars to Abigail Chase when each comes of age to receve said money by or from my Executor.

                It is my Will that my Executor hereafter named Shall furnish my two daughters Viz Deborah Washburn and Margaret Washburn with the following Necssaries of live Annually during their Natural Lives Unless one should Marry in that case one half to cease fifteen bushels of good Grinding corn five Bushel of Rye four Gallons of molasses twelve pounds of sugar two pounds of tea fire wood at the door sufficient for one fire ten pounds of good Ham and to pay doctor Bills and taxes and to keep their fences and buildings in good repair & provided my Beloved son Ira whom I shall further mention should decese the improve of my homested farm and that part south of the road where he now liveth will come into possession of my two daughters.

                I now give to my Beloved son Ira Washburn the remainder and residue of all Estate that I have not Mentioned if any there be to him his heirs and assigns forever Whom I do therefore Constitute Ordain and appoint to be my Executor to this my last Will and testament and Revoking all others, Declaring this to be my last Will and testament.

                In Witness hereof I have hereunto sett my hand and seal this twentieth day of March one thousand eight hundred and six.

                                                                                                                 his

                                                                                                Peter         X          Washburn

                                                                                                                mark

Signed Sealed and Declared

to be my last will &

testament in Presence of

James Gifford

William Russell

Elizabeth Gifford

                                                                                                Octo 7, 1817, approved

 

Presented in court on 7 Oct. 1817 by Ira Washburn, executor, and proved by James Gifford and Elisabeth Gifford. Holder Slocum Esq. & James Gifford, yeoman, both of Dartmouth, were sureties on the bond of Ira Washburn, of Dartmouth.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from the Bristol County Probate File “Peter Washburn, Dartmouth, 1817,” from FHL microfilm #0577880, the will recorded in Bristol County Probate Vol. 54, p. 64.

 

 

Will of Phebe Washburn of Lenox, Berkshire County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1862) *

Know all men that I Phoebe Washburn of Lenox County of Berkshire & State of Massachusetts being of sound mind & memory do make & publish this my Last Will & Testament to wit.

1st I give and bequeath to my son Samuel Washburn the Sum of Twenty Dollars to him & his heirs

2d I give & bequeath to my daughter Olive Sedgwick the Sum of twenty dollars

3d I give & bequeath to Olive Washburn Widow of my son Ira the Sum of ten dollars, Also the sum of Forty Dollars to be Equally divided between my Grand Children William, Henry, Roxana & Martha & their heirs

4th I give & bequeath of my household furniture as follows, to my Grand daughters Roxana & Martha Each one Feather bed, one pair of sheets & one Kersey blanket, Two Pillow & Cases. – I Give & bequeath to my daughter Laura one Beaureau. I give & bequeath to my son Miles one Writing desk. the remainder of my Household furniture & linen, I give and bequeath to Olive Sedgwick, Laura Blossom, Emily Washburn wife of sd Miles to be Equally divided between them. The rest & residue of my persanal Estate I give and bequeath to my son Miles Washburn & my daughter Laura Blossom to be Equally divided between them to reward them for their care and Expense for all my wants & to renumerate Miles for the board of my daughter Laura while with me & to renumerate Laura for her services and Kindness to me –

And I do hereby appoint my son Miles Washburn to be my Sole Executor of this my last Will & Testament.

   In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand & seal this 17th day of Febuary 1862.

                                                                                                                                                Phebe Washburn                             (seal)

The foregoing instrument was subscribed by the said Phoebe Washburn in our presence & acknoweledged by her to be her last will & Testament, & we at her request & in her presence have signed our names as witnesses hereto.

                                                                                                                                                Thos Sedgwiock

                                                                                                                                                Henry Sedgwick

                                                                                                                                                Emily Washburn

 

Presented for probate on 2 Apr. 1867 by Miles Washburn of Lenox, and proved by Thos Sedgwick and Henry Sedgwick, of Lenox.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Berkshire County Probate Wills Vol. 12, p. 15-16, from FHL microfilm #1750451.

 

 

Will of Philander Washburn of Middleborough, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1882) *

I Philander Washburn of Middleboro in the County of Plymouth and State of Massachusetts make this my last will and testament hereby revoking all former wills by me heretofore made.

  I appoint my son George Washburn to be the sole executor of and sole Trustee under this will, and I will and direct that no sureties or surety shall be required of him upon his official bond, either as such executor or trustee.

  All property and estate of every name and nature of which I shall die seized, possessed, or in any way entitled to, I give devise and bequeath to my said son George Washburn, In Trust, nevertheless, to have, hold and dispose of the same upon and according to the following declared Trusts, and for no other purpose and in no other way.

First. To pay all just claims against my estate.

Second. To furnish with a home and maintain and support in the same manner and style as I have done and now do, my beloved wife Elizabeth Homes Washburn, and my unmarried daughter Mary L. Washburn so long as my said wife shall survive me; and upon the decease of each my said wife, and my said daughter before her mother, to pay her funeral expenses and place a headstone at her grave, all in a becoming and suitable manner.

Third. Upon the death of my said wife and upon my death, in case my said wife shall not survive me, to retain one third of all my said property which shall then remain to himself as and for his own property and estate in fee simple forever; to pay and make over one third of my said property which shall then remain to my said daughter Mary L. Washburn, if she shall then be living; to hold the remaining one third of my said remaining property as a trust fund, and invest and keep the same invested as a Trust Fund, and collect the income and interest thereon and therefrom, and quarter yearly so far as practicable pay the same to my daughter Elizabeth W. Brainard so long as she live; and upon the decease of my said daughter Elizabeth W. leaving issue her surviving under the age of twenty one years, to pay said income and interest equally to and among such issue until the youngest of such issue shall arrive at the age of twenty one years, at which time he shall pay and make over said Trust Fund share and share alike to and among the issue of said Elizabeth W. the issue of any deceased child of said Elizabeth W. in all cases to take the parents share by right of representation; and upon the death of said Elizabeth W. leaving no issue her surviving and in case of the death of said Elizabeth W. and all issue of hers before the youngest of such issue of hers arrives at the age of twenty one years, then to pay, make over, and distribute said Trust Fund to and among my heirs at law in the same proportions as they would take the same by descent from me dying intestate. And I direct said Trustee that in case at any time the income of said Trust Fund shall seem to him insufficient for the suitable support of my said daughter Elizabeth W. and her issue, he may pay over to or expend for her or her issue such portion of the principal of said Trust Fund as he shall from time to time deem expedient, and this without accountability to any one. And I will and direct that in case any share of my lapsed legacy hereunder should be coming to said Elizabeth W. or her issue hereunder, that the same shall go to and be held in trust by my said son George Washburn in every way the same as is above provided in respect to the Trust Fund above given to him for the benefit of my said daughter Elizabeth W. and her issue.

  I give to my said son George Washburn full power and authority alike as such executor and as such trustee, at such price or price’s and at public or private sale all as he shall deem expedient from time to time sell, and by proper and effectual instruments in writing convey any and all property at any time constituting the estate left and devised by me, or held by him as executor of or trustee under this will, always seeking safe investments of so much of the proceeds of such sales, as he shall not find it in his opinion necessary or expedient to use in payment of debts or other proper expenditures hereunder, and I give to whoever may be executor or trustee in place of my said son George Washburn, all, every and the same rights, powers and authority and discretion, alike as executor and trustee, as are herein and hereby given to my said son as executor and trustee.

  In testimony whereof I hereunto set my hand and seal and publish and declare this to be my last will and testament in presence of the witnesses named below, this seventeenth day of February in the year eighteen hundred and eighty two. 1882.

                                                                                                                                                Philander Washburn                      (seal)

Signed, sealed, published and declared by the above named Philander Washburn of Middleboro as and for his last will and testament, in presence of us, who in his presence and in presence of each other and at his request have hereunto set our names as witnesses hereof.

                                                                                                                                                John Shaw

                                                                                                                                                Charles W. Drake

                                                                                                                                                Henry D. Smith

 

Presented for probate on the second Monday of Jan. 1883 by George Washburn, of Middleborough. Letters Testamentary were granted without sureties to George Washburn on 8 Jan. 1883.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 153, p. 473-475, from FHL microfilm #0556654, and Vol. 156, p. 46.

 

 

Will of Philip Washburn of Kingston, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1853) *

                Be it remembered, that I Philip Washburn of Kingston, of sound mind and memory, make this my last Will and Testament in manner and form following ~ that is to say ~

 To my son Thaddeus R. Washburn I give the sum of Two Hundred Dollars, and my best Desk.

 To my grand children, Martha, wife of Horatio Bearce, and Jerome Washburn, children of my son Harvey Washburn, deceased, I give the sum of Ten Dollars each.

 To my daughter Patience Sampson, wife of Constant Sampson Jun., I give the sum of Four Hundred Dollars, being the amount of the note I hold against her husband.

 To my grandchild, William W. Symmes, son of my daughter Mary, deceased, I give the sum of Ten Dollars.

 I give and bequeath to Joshua Delano of Kingston the sum of Two Hundred Dollars, in Trust nevertheless for the use and benefit of my son Philip Washburn, and to be expended for the use and benefit of my said son at the discretion of the Trustee.

 I give, devise and bequeath to said Joshua Delano my House and Lot in said Kingston, near Jones River, which I purchased of Thomas P. Beal, in fee, in Trust nevertheless for the use and benefit of my son Charles H. Washburn, during the life of my said son ~ on his death the Trust estate shall cease, and the property, if any remains, shall go to the heirs of said Charles.

 I also give, devise and bequeath in fee to said Joshua Delano my Homestead in Rocky Nook, so called, in said Kingston, which I purchased of David Beal, in Trust, nevertheless for the use and benefit of my son George L. Washburn ~ said Trust to continue during the life of my said son, and on his death, if any remains, to go to his heirs.

 I give to my daughter Martha Bradford, wife of John C. Bradford, the sum of One Hundred and Fifty Dollars.

                All the rest and residue of my Estate, real and personal, I give, devise and bequeath to said Joshua Delano, in fee, in Trust nevertheless, for the use and benefit of my two sons, Philip and George in equal parts, and said Trust to be, and continue, and to cease, as in case of the above specific Trusts.

                I nominate and appoint Joshua Delano to be Executor of this my last Will and Testament.

                In testimony whereof I hereto set my hand and seal this eighth day of August, in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and fifty three.

                                                                                                                                                Philip Washburn                              (seal)

Signed, sealed, published and declared by said Philip Washburn as his last Will and Testament, in presence of us, who, in his presence, and by his request set our names as Witnesses.

                                                                                                                                                Wm Thomas

                                                                                                                                                Sarah W. Thomas

                                                                                                                                                Benja. Delano

 

The last Will and Testament of Philip Washburn late of Kingston in said County, Master Mariner deceased, was presented for probate by Joshua Delano, the Executor, on the third Monday of May, 1854, and proved by Benjamin Delano and William Thomas, two of the Witnesses.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Philip Washburn late of Kingston, Master Mariner, was appraised by John Gray, Edward Gray, and Philander Cobb, on 20 May 1843, his real estate totaled $1659.00, including his homestead house & improved land valued at $1167, and the house & land occupied by Chas Washburn valued at $400, and his personal estate totaled $1019.00, including the $400 note from Constant Sampson Jr., and another $400 note from Benjamin Delano. Joshua Delano, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 14 Aug. 1854.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 96, pp. 182-184, 321, from FHL microfilm #0555642.

 

 

Will of Priscilla D. Washburn of Plymouth, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1855) *

                Be it known that I Priscilla D. Washburn of Plymouth, in the County of Plymouth, Single-woman do hereby make, publish and declare this instrument to be my last Will and Testament in manner following to wit:

                I give, devise & bequeath to my mother Priscilla W. Washburn all the estate both real & personal of which I may die seized and possessed & in which I may have any interest whatever to have and to hold the same to her & her heirs & assigns forever.

                I appoint my mother Priscilla W. Washburn sole Executrix of this my last Will & Testament.

                I make no bequest to my half sisters Margaret Brown and Lydia Ladd.

                In witness of all which I have hereto set my hand & seal this tenth day of April in the year one thousand eight hundred and fifty five.

                                                                                                                                                Priscilla D. Washburn                   (seal)

                Signed, sealed, published and declared by the above named Priscilla D. Washburn as & for her last Will & Testament in presence of us who at her request, in her presence and in presence of each other have hereto subscribed our names as witnesses.

                                                                                                                                                William T. Drew

                                                                                                                                                Winslow Drew

                                                                                                                                                Thos. Churchill

 

Presented for probate on the second Monday of February 1864 by Priscilla W. Washburn of Plymouth, with Winslow Drew and Wm. H. Whitman, of Plymouth, as sureties. Letters Testamentary were granted to Priscilla W. Washburn, of Plymouth, on 8 Feb. 1864.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 104, p. 488-489, from FHL microfilm #0555646, and Vol. 114, p. 430 (458).

 

 

Will of Richard Washborn of New Castle, Westchester County, New York (1832) *

Be it Remembered that I Richard Washborn of the town of New Castle, County of Westchester, and State of New York, considering the uncertainty of this mortal life, and being of sound and perfect mind and memory, do make and publish this my last Will and Testament in manner and form follows, viz: I hereby appoint Moses Haight of New Castle and Joseph Pierce of Mount Pleasant both in the County and State aforesaid my executors who are authorised and empowered to sell my Farm lying and being in the town of New Castle, County and State aforesaid, Bounded on the East by the road leading from friends Meeting house to Timothy Conklin’s Mills on the south by lands of Sutton Reynolds, southerly and westerly by the land of Benjamin Kipp Jr. West and North by lands of Benjamin and Gilbert Kipp Northerly and Easterly by lands of Thomas Doodge, Easterly by the burying ground and land of Samuel Allen) at any time they shall think most proper before my Youngest child arrives of age, and out of the monies arising from the sale, I give my wife One thousand dollars to be at her disposal, and my son, Rhuben the sum of Sixty five dollars, and the residue and remainder of my property to be equally divided among my five children, share and share alike viz Caleb U. Washborn, Aaron Washborn, Maria Washborn, Sarah Washborn and Rhuben Washborn, and further it is my will that my wife and family remain on and have the use of my property real and personal until my Executors above named shall think proper to sell the same.

In Witness Whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this twenty sixth day of fifth month one thousand Eight hundred and thirty two.

Signed, sealed, published and delivered by the

Testator in presence of

Zephaniah Birdsall

Mary Underhill                                                                                                Richard Worshburn                        (seal)

Samuel Allen

 

Caleb U. Washborn, Aaron Washborn, Maria Washborn, and Sarah Washborn, minors who reside in the town of New Castle, the children and only next of kin and heirs at law of Richard Washborn, late of New Castle, deceased, and Charles A. Purdy, of White Plains, special Guardian of said minors, were given notice by Joseph Pierce, of Mount Pleasant, on 30 June 1841 that he will apply for probate of the Will of Richard Washborn on 10 July 1841.

 

The Will was presented for probate on 23 July 1841, and proved by Samuel Allen, and Mary Bailey, formerly Mary Underhill, two of the witnesses.

 

Administration of the Will of Richard Worshburn, late of New Castle, was granted to Joseph Pierce, the Executor, on 23 July 1841.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Westchester County Probate, Wills Vol. X, p. 595-602, and Letters Testamentary Vol. C, p. 57, the name consistently spelled “Washborn.”

 

 

Will of Richard Washburn of Herkimer, Herkimer County, New York (1872) *

I, Richard Washburn of the Town and County of Herkimer and State of New York of the age of 83 years and being of sound mind and memory do hereby make publish and declare this my last Will and Testament as follows

First, I give devise and bequeath unto my wife Hannah Washburn the use and enjoyment of my house and lot now owned and occupied by me and situated on the north side of Mary Street in the Village of Herkimer and being about 54 feet front and rear and about 200 feet deep, for and during the term of her natural life and no longer

Second, Subject to the life estate of my said wife in the aforesaid house and lot, I give devise and bequeath the said house and lot above described to my Son in law Lorenzo P. Wing absolutely and forever and in the event that my wife should not survive me then this devise shall become absolute at my death, And I hereby revoke all other or former Wills by me made.

In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this 16th day of September A.D. 1872

                                                                                                                                                Richard Washburn                          (seal)

Subscribed by Richard Washburn the testator named in the foregoing Will in our presence and at the time of making such subscription declared by the testator to be his last Will and Testament and each of us sign our names as witnesses to this Will at the request of the testator and in his presence and in the presence of each other.

The last line but ones on the first page was interlined before execution.

John W. Vrooman of Herkimer N.Y.

Bettie F. Vrooman of Herkimer N.Y.

 

Proved by John W. Vrooman and Bettie F. Vrooman of the town of Herkimer on 16 Dec. 1873.

 

Hannah Washburn, widow of Richard Washburn, deceased, was granted Letters of Administration on the estate of Richard Washburn on 16 Dec. 1873.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Herkimer County Probate, Wills Vol. Q, p. 181-182, and Letters of Administration Vol. G, p. 413.

 

 

Will of Rufus Washburn of Ludlow, Windsor County, Vermont (1882) *

I Rufus Washburn of Ludlow in the County of Windsor and State of Vermont being of sound mind and body and in my usual state of health do hereby make publish and declare this my last will and testament

First        It is my will that all my just debts and the charges of my funeral be paid and discharged out of my Estate as soon as may conveniently be done after my decease and I leave the direction of my funeral to my Executor hereinafter named

2d            I give devise and dispose of all my Estate, real and personal (save what is required for payment of debts funeral charges and Expenses of the Settlement of my Estate) in the following manner to wit

3rd           I give to my son in law Henry N. Jenne one thousand dollars current money.

4th.          All the remainder and residue of my Estate real and personal, of whatever it may consist and wheresoever situated I give devise and bequeath to my grand son, Henry Nathaniel Washburn Jenne.

I hereby nominate and appoint my friend, Wm. H. Walker to be the Executor of this my last will and testament.

In testimony where of I have hereunto set my hand and seal and published and declared this instrument to be my last will and testament this 21st day of October A.D. 1882

                                                                                                                                                Rufus Washburn                               (seal)

signed sealed published and

declared by the said Rufus

Washburn as his last will

and testament in the presence

of us who have hereunto sub-

scribed our names as Witnesses

thereof at the request and in

the presence of the said testator

and in the presence of each

other       Martin H. Goddard

                Jefferson Baldwin

                Frederick A. Fish

 

Probated on 3 Sept. 1883. William H. Walker, of Ludlow, was appointed as Executor of the last will and testament of Rufus Washburn, late of Ludlow, on 3 Sept. 1883, with Martin H. Goddard, of Ludlow, and G. L. Armington, W. D. Ball and J. A. Dennett, of Ludlow, as sureties.

William D. Ball and George L. Armington, of Ludlow, were appointed to examine the claims against the estate of Rufus Washburn, late of Ludlow, on 3 Sept. 1883.

George L. Armington and Frank A. Walker, both of Ludlow, were appointed to appraise the estate of Rufus Washburn, late of Ludlow, on 12 Sept. 1883. His homestead place in Ludlow Village was appraised at $2800, his dwelling house and lot in Proctorsville was appraised at $1800, and his personal estate totaled $13,823.50 on 1 Oct. 1883.

Henry N. Jenne was appointed as guardian of Nathaniel H. W. Jenne, a minor heir of Rufus Washburn, late of Ludlow.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Windsor County, Vermont, Windsor District File “Washburn, Hannah B. – Weston, Reuben,” from FHL microfilm #1183445, beginning at image 163, online at www.FamilySearch.org.

 

 

Will of Ruth Washburn of Leicester, Worcester County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1827) *

In the name of God, Amen.

                                                                                                                                I Ruth Washburn of Leicester widow am induced from the feeble state of my health at the time and a wish to make a proper disposition of my estate do make my last will and testament which I hereby do in the manner following to wit I confide in the judgment and affection of my executor hereafter named to see my remains decently interred and a simple & suitable monument erected over them. I direct him as soon as may be after my decease to cause all my debts to be paid and I authorise him to dispose of and sell all my estate real or personal if he shall think proper or so much of it as he shall think best either at public or private sale. And I direct him to make the following division of the same among my children or the children of my deceased son Seth Washburn, viz. It is my will and desire that my estate should be equally divided & shared between my five children and the son & daughter of my deceased son Seth, and as I have already advanced to some of them sums of money which ought to be considered as a part of their shares I direct that all sums charged to either of my children as well as notes of hand signed by them or their husbands shall be added to the estate of which I may die seized & possessed of & debts due me, and the aggregate thus made be divided into six equal parts. One of which I give & bequeath unto my son Ebenezer Davis Washburn. One to my son Joseph Washburn One to my Daughter Lucinda A Wilder wife of John Wilder and one to my son Emory Washburn and one to my daughter Ruth Muenscher wife of Joseph Muenscher, And the other sixth to Thomas D. Washburn & Ruth Washburn children of my son Seth Washburn deceased in manner herein after provided. And in paying to said Ebenezer D Joseph and Emory their distributive shares my Executor is to apply their notes of hand or the sum charged against them respectively towards such payment and the balance if any is to be paid out of the estate I may have. My executor is also to apply the notes of hand I hold against John Wilder in paying to his wife her distributive share as aforesaid. And he is also to apply the note or notes of hand signed by my daughter Ruth or her husband if any towards payment of her distributive share. And as to the share to be distributed to my grand children before named the Children of my deceased son Seth, my executor is to apply the notes of hand signed by my son Seth towards and as a part of the share of my estate herein devised & bequeathed to his children. And if their distributive share of my estate shall exceed the notes of hand which I now hold which are signed by my said son, I direct my Executor to apply the income of such share towards the support & education of Thomas D Washburn till he shall be twenty one years of age in such manner as my said Executor shall think most fit and proper. And if Ruth Washburn the daughter of said son Seth shall then be alive I will and direct that said share shall be equally divided and one half part thereof be paid to said Ruth & the other half to said Thomas D. And if it shall happen that said Thomas D. should die before he shall arrive at the age of twenty one years I direct that said share shall be paid over to his said Sister Ruth if she shall then be alive, And if both Thomas D. & Ruth shall die before they shall arrive at the age of twenty one years without having Children then both their said shares shall be divided among my other lawful heirs. And if said Ruth shall die without children before she arrives at the age of twenty one years her said share shall be paid over to her brother Thomas if he shall be alive at that time.

I further constitute and appoint my son Emory Washburn Executor of this my last will and testament and charge him as such with the execution of the foregoing duties and powers with authority as aforesaid to make deeds of conveyance of my real estate. And I direct that within said legatees shall have a right to compel payment of their shares of my estate till after one year from the time of my decease.

With this declaration of my wishes in regard to my worldly estate I commit myself to that Being whose Providence has sustained me till this hour and still preserves my reason & mental powers while disease is preying upon my body. And to execute with due formality this instrument which I have directed to be prepared I hereunto set my hand & seal this twelfth day of March in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred & twenty seven

Signed sealed declared & published by the testatrix

to be her last will & testament in presence

of us who in her presence have

hereunto set our hands

                                                                                                                                                Ruth Washburn

                Nancy Rawson

                Joshua Sprague

                Eliza H. Denny

 

Proved by Eliza H. Denny, one of the witnesses, on 1 May 1827. Emery Washburn Esqr. was confirmed as Executor of the last Will and testament of Ruth Washburn, late of Leicester, on 1 May 1827, with James Smith and Isaac Southgate, Gentlemen, of Leicester, as sureties.

 

The Inventory of the Goods and Estate of the late Widow Ruth Washburn, was appraised by Austin Flint, Esq., Isaac Southgate and James Smith, Gentlemen, all of Leicester, on 4 Apr. 1827, and totaled $6493.88, including her mansion house and shop, barn, etc. in town valued at $3100, 23-1/3 acres called the Denny lot valued at $700, and a farm and 97 acres one mile north of the center meeting house in Leicester called the Hubbard farm valued at $1825. Added to the inventory were 10 shares in the Capital Stock of Leicester Bank valued at $1000, and another $126.34 in wearing apparel of the deceased that was sold. Emory Washburn, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 1 July 1827, but the first accounting by Emory Washburn, the executor, shows a total value of the estate of $24,116.83.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Worcester County Probate Case #62323, online at www.AmericanAncestors.org, the will filed in Worcester County Probate Vol. 66, p. 77.

 

 

Will and Codicil of Samuel Washburn of Mount Pleasant, Westchester County, New York (1853) *

                I, Samuel Washburn, of the town of Mount Pleasant, in the County of Westchester, considering the uncertainty of this mortal life and being of sound mind and memory – (blessed be Almighty God for the same, do make and publish this my last will and testament in manner and form following, that is to say: —

                First: — I order and direct that my executors hereinafter appointed, pay all my just debts and funeral charges.

                Second: — I give and bequeath unto my daughter – Lavinah Israel, the sum of four hundred and eighty one dollars (which sum will make her equal to her brother and three sisters, viz, Samuel Washburn Jr, Charlotte Fisher, Hannah Richards, and Catharine Acker, that is, make her up equal to what I have already given to them) and to her heirs –

                Third: — I give and bequeath to my five grand children viz – Mary Elisabeth Sarles, Catherine Estelle Sarles, George Sarles, Willet Sarles, and Elisha B. Sarles, sons and daughters of my daughter Jemima Sarles the sum of one hundred dollars each, and in case of the death of any one or more of them before receiving his or her legacy as afore said, such share or legacies of such so dying I give and bequeath to his or her children share and share alike, and in case any one or more of the said five grand children shall die leaving no child or children in that case I give and bequeath the legacy or legacies of such so dying in equal shares to the survivors of them.

                Fourth: — I give and bequeath all the residue and remainder of my personal property to my five children, viz – Lavinah Israel, Hannah Richards, Charlotte Fisher, Samuel Washburn Jr, and Catharine Acker, share and share alike, and to their several and respective heirs —

                Lastly: — I nominate, constitute and appoint my son Samuel Washburn and my son in law, Hiram Fisher, executors of this my last will and testament, hereby revoking all former Wills by me made.

                In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and seal this 19th day of March, in the year of our Lord, one thousand eight hundred fifty three –

                                                                                                                                                             his

                                                                                                                                                Samuel  X  Washburn                         (seal)

                                                                                                                                                           mark

                The above and within instrument consisting of one sheet was now here subscribed by Samuel Washburn, the testator, in the presence of each of us and was at the same time declared by him to be his last Will and testament and we at his request sign our names thereto attesting witnesses,

Abel Smith, Jr., town of New Castle, Westchester C—

Nathaniel Hyatt, town of New Castle, Westchester C—

 

                                                                                    Codicil

                I, Samuel Washburn, of the town of Mount Pleasant in the County of Westchester, do hereby revoke and make void, all that Second Clause of my will hereunto annexed, which clause gives and bequeaths to my daughter Lavinah Israel the sum of four hundred and eighty one dollars to make her equal to the rest of my children, as therein stated which revocation is for the following reasons, viz—That on or about the middle of April last I paid as an advancement to the said Lavinah my daughter as aforesaid, the said sum of four hundred and eighty one dollars – which with what I already had given her made up her equal to the other of my children as in the mid second clause is stated, leaving all the residue of the said Will to remain in full force and virtue –

                In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and seal this 12th day of March, in the year one thousand eight hundred and fifty five.

                                                                                                                                                           X

                                                                                                                                                 Samuel  Washburn                             (seal)

                The above instrument as Codicil to the annexed Will was now here subscribed by Samuel Washburn, the testator in the presence of each of us and was at the same time declared by him to be such instrument, and we at his request, signed our names thereto as attesting witnesses

Nathaniel Hyatt, New Castle, W. Chester Co.

Charles Edgar Fisher, Mt Pleasant,   “        “

 

Hiram Fisher applied for probate of the will on 21 Apr. 1855, and a new citation was issued to give notice to Willet Washburn, George Sarles, Willet Sarles, and John P. Jenkins, guardian ad litem of Elisha B. Sarles on 16 June 1855.

 

Proved on 26 June 1855 by Nathaniel Hyatt, of New Castle, one of the witnesses to the will and codicil, by Abel Smith Jr., of Greenburgh, formerly of New Castle, one of the witnesses to the will, and by Charles Edgar Fisher, of Mount Pleasant, one of the witnesses to the codicil.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Westchester County Probate, Wills Vol. 36, p. 533-540.

 

 

Will and Codicil of Samuel M. Washburn of Poughkeepsie, Dutchess County, New York (1873) *

                I Samuel M Washburn of the city of Poughkeepsie County of Dutchess and State of New York do hereby make publish and declare this my last will and testament as follows.

First        I direct that my just debts and funeral expenses be paid.

Second   I give devise and bequeath unto my beloved wife Esther Washburn all my property both real and personal of every name and kind whatsoever and wheresoever situate.

Lastly     I hereby nominate and appoint my beloved wife Esther Washburn Executrix of this my last will and testament, hereby revoking all former wills by me made.

                In Witness Whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this twelfth day of June AD 1873.

                                                                                                                                                Samuel M. Washburn                     (seal)

The above instrument consisting of one half sheet was now here subscribed by Samuel M Washburn the testator in the presence of each of us, and was at the same time declared by him to be his last will and testament and we at his request and in his presence and in the presence of each other sign our names hereto as attesting witnesses.

Robt N Palmer of Poughkeepsie N.Y.

Sarah E Thorne of Poughkeepsie N.Y.

 

                Whereas, I, Samuel M Washburn of the city of Poughkeepsie in the County of Dutchess and State of New York have made my last will and testament bearing date the twelfth day of June AD 1873 in and by which I have given, devised and bequeathed all my property both real and personal to my beloved wife Esther Washburn, Now therefore I do by this instrument which I hereby declare to be a Codicil to my last will and testament and to be taken as a part thereof order and direct that in case my said wife Esther Washburn shall die before me, then I give, devise and bequeath all my property both real and personal of every name and kind whatsoever and wheresoever situate to Hannah Ackerman of the City of Poughkeepsie. And it is my desire that this Codicil be annexed to and be made a part of my last will and testament.

                                In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this eleventh day of March AD 1875.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                           his

                                                                                                                                                Samuel M  X Washburn                     (seal)

                                                                                                                                                                  mark

The foregoing instrument was at the date thereof subscribed by Samuel M Washburn in our presence and he at the same time declared said instrument to be a Codicil to his last will and testament and requested us to sign our names as witnesses which we do in his presence and in the presence of each other The above was read over to Samuel M Washburn before signing.

                                Robt N Palmer of Po’keepsie Dutchess County N.Y.

                                Edwin Morey of Poughkeepsie    do                      do       do

 

The Will was proved by Sarah E. Walter, formerly Sarah E. Thorne, and Robert N. Palmer, both of the City of Poughkeepsie, on 25 May 1877, and the Codicil was proved by Robert N. Palmer and Edwin Morey, both of the City of Poughkeepsie, on 25 May 1877. The Will and Codicil were delivered to Hannah Ackerman, one of the Executors, on 27 June 1878.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Dutchess County Probate, Vol. 4, p. 397-401.

 

 

Will of Samuel Washburn of Lenox, Berkshire County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1879) *

I Samuel Washburn of Lenox in the County of Berkshire and state of Massachusetts, being in good health and of sound disposing mind and memory do make publish and declare this instrument to be my last will and testament hereby revoking and making and declaring null and void all former wills by me made.

First   I nominate my two sons Franklin and Frederick Washburn and Thomas Post all of Lenox aforesaid to be executors of this instrument and I direct them and the survivors or survivor of them to act in that capacity and to pay out of my estate all my just debts and funeral expenses and the expenses of settling my estate

Second   To my grand children the children of my deceased daughter Sophia Sabin late wife of George Sabin of Newark New Jersey their names being Samuel Sabin, Elizabeth Sabin and William Sabin I give them each nothing

Third   After the payment of my just debts funeral expenses and the expenses of settling my estate I give devise and bequeath all the rest, residue and remainder of my estate, real personal and mixed rights and credits of every name nature and description and wheresoever situated, unto my two sons Franklin Washburn and Frederic Washburn to have and to hold to them and their heirs and assigns respectively forever share and share alike

   Provided however and the devise and bequest herein to my son Frederic is on this condition that he make no claim against my estate of any kind whatever and if he does make any claim for anything against my estate and if any of it is allowed the amount allowed and all expenses incurred by my executors or my estate defending it or concerning the same shall be deducted from his share which he is to have under this will before any thing shall be paid to him or delivered to him out of my estate.

    In witness whereof I hereunto set my hand and seal this Seventeenth day of December A.D. 1879 at Pittsfield in said County of Berkshire

                                                                                                                                                Samuel Washburn                           (seal)

Signed, sealed published pronounced and declared by the said Samuel Washburn the said testator, to be his last will and testament in our presence who in his presence and at his request and in his presence hereto set our names as witnesses to all the same

                                                                                                                                                A. J. Waterman

                                                                                                                                                Geo. H. Tucker

                                                                                                                                                H. McPitt

 

Presented for probate on 20 July 1880 by Frederick and Franklin Washburn and Thomas Post, of Lenox, who declined to take the trust of executors, and petitioned that administration with the will annexed be granted to Henry W. Taft of Pittsfield. Henry W. Taft of Pittsfield was granted administration of the estate of Samuel Washburn with the will annexed on 20 July 1880, with Frederick Washburn and Franklin Washburn as his sureties.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Berkshire County Probate Wills Vol. 121, p. 217-218, from FHL microfilm #1750454.

 

 

Will of Sarah Elizabeth Washburn of Greenburgh, Westchester County, New York (1874) *

                                                                                                In the name of God Amen

I Sarah Elizabeth Washburn of Irvington town of Greenburgh county of Westchester State of New York being of sound mind and memory and considering the uncertainty of this frail and transitory life do therefore make ordain publish and declare this to be my last Will and Testament that is to say

First After all my lawful debts are paid and discharged I give and bequeath to my children Abraham Eva and Arthur Gerard all my real and personal property of any kind whatsoever to be at my death devided equally between them upon the youngest attaining the age of twenty one years

Second In case any of my said children die before the youngest attains the age of twenty one years then my estate of any kind whatsoever to be divided equally between or to those that remain

Third If they all die without attaining the age of twenty one years then my estate of any kind whatsoever to go to my husband Thomas B Washburn or should he be dead then to the nearest of kin

Fourthly My Executor hereafter mentioned to pay out of my estate all necessary funds for my proper burial and to make such disposition of my property as will be most beneficial for the children Likewise I make constitute and appoint Thomas B Washburn my husband the Executor of this my last Will and Testament hereby revoking all former Wills by me made

In Witness whereof I have hereunto subscribed my name and affixed my seal the twenty sixth day of August in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and seventy four

                                                                                                                                                Sarah Elizabeth Washburn                           (seal)

The above written Instrument was subscribed by the said Sarah Elizabeth Washburn in our presence and acknowledged by her to each of us and she at the same time declared the above instrument so subscribed to be her last Will and Testament and we at her request have signed our names as witnesses hereto and written opposite our names our respective places of residence “The letter B. between Thomas and Washburn was inserted before signing

Jacob Acker   East Irvington  NY

Calvin Keyser  Irvington  NY

Wm F. Moller  Irvington  NY

 

Presented for probate on 10 Nov. 1874 by Thomas Washburn, the Executor, and proved by William F. Moller of the town of Greenburgh and Jacob Acker of the town of Greenburgh on 23 Nov 1874. A special guardian was appointed for the minors of the deceased.

 

Letters Testamentary on the estate of Sarah Elizabeth Washburn, late of the town of Greenburgh, were granted to Thomas Washburn, the Executor, on 23 Nov. 1874.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Westchester County Probate, Wills Vol. 74, p. 42-47, and Letters Testamantary Vol. L, p. 4.

 

 

Will of Sarah Jane Washburn of Troy, Rensselaer County, New York (1846) *

        The last Will & Testament of Sarah Jane Washburn now of the City of Troy that is to say

First, I direct after the payment of all just demands against me and of the expenses of suitable grave Stones to be erected at the graves of my father and myself that the interest on all the monies remaining due (except One hundred dollars hereinafter mentioned) be paid to my Mother Annually during her life.

Secondly, I give & bequeath to St. Pauls Church in the City of Troy to be paid within one year after my decease the Sum of One hundred dollars in trust to be invested and the interest thereof to be expended in the education of poor children of said church in Such manner as the Vestry of said Church Shall direct. Thirdly- After the payments abovementioned and also after the payment of the expense of erecting Suitable grave Stones at the graves of my Mother I give and bequeath the residue of my property as follows to wit the one half thereof to the children of my brother Isaac and the other half thereof to the children of my brother David Surviving at the death of my Mother Share and Share alike.

Fourthly, I appoint my Uncle Isaac McConike of the City of Troy Executor of this my last Will and Testament. – In Witness whereof I have hereunto Set my hand & Seal this twentyeighth day of July in the Year of our Lord One thousand eight hundred and fortysix.

                                                                                                                                                Sarah J. Washburn

        The above instrument Consisting of one Sheet was at the date thereof Signed Sealed published & declared by the Said Sarah Jane Washburn as and for her last Will & testament in the presence of us who at her request & in her presence & in the presence of each other have Subscribed our names as Witnesses thereto

Sara T. McConike residing in Troy County of Rensselaer

Isaac M McConike    do         do       do            do

 

Proved by Sara T. McConike on 5 July 1847.

 

Next of kin on 5 July 1847 of Sarah Jane Washburn, who died on 14 Oct. 1846 in Madison County, leaving a will dated 28 July 1846 were listed by her executor, Isaac M. McConike, as her mother Mary Ann Johnson of Syracuse, Onondaga County, and her brothers David Washburn of Syracuse, Isaac Washburn of Eaton, Madison County, Arthur Washburn whose place of residence us unknown, and _____ Washburn, whose place of residence is unknown.

 

On 26 Jan. 1853 Mary Anne Johnson reported that her son Isaac lives in Palmyra, Jefferson Co., Wisconsin, her son Arthur lives in Iowa, her son David is said to be living somewhere in Ohio, and son Samuel is dead, having lived in Buffalo at the time of his decease.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Rensselaer County Probate, Vol. 37, p. 226-227.

 

 

Will of Sarah S. Washburn of Northampton, Hampshire County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1881) *

                Know all men by these presents, that I Sarah S. Washburn, of Northampton County of Hampshire, state of Massachusetts, being of sound mind and disposing memory, make publish and declare this to be my last will and testament, hereby revoking all wills heretofore made.

First

                After the payment of my just debts and funeral expenses, I give and bequeath unto my neice Mary Susan Cushing and my nephew Arthur Miles Cushing all my real and personal property, of whatever kind or wherever situated share and share alike, to them their heirs and assigns forever

Second

                I nominate and appoint Arthur M Cushing to be the executor of this my last will and testament.

                                In witness whereof I, Sarah S. Washburn have hereunto set my hand — seal at Northampton this 28th day of December 1881

                                                                                                                                                Sarah S. Washburn

 

                Subscribed by the said Sarah S. Washburn in the presence of each of us, as and for her last will and testament, who at her request, in her presence and in the presence of each other have hereunto subscribed our names as witnesses

                                                                                                                                Wm H. Viney MD

                                                                                                                                E. W. Sanderson

                                                                                                                                M. R. Sanderson

 

Probated in 1882, according to the index, but the letters of administration were not recorded with the will.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Hampshire County Probate Vol. 61, p. 480, from FHL microfilm #1601873. Sarah S. Washburn was from Vermont. She was found in the household of Abner M. Cushing in Rockingham, Windham Co., VT, in the 1850 and 1860 censuses, and in Northampton, MA, in the 1870 and 1880 censuses. I don’t know which Washburn branch she is related to, she was designated as single in the 1880 census, rather than a widow, and an aunt of Abner M. Cushing, but she was 78 years of age in 1880. Mary S. Cushing and Arthur M. Cushing were children of Abner M. Cushing.

 

 

Will of Seth Washburn Esq. of Leicester, Worcester County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1790) *

                                                                                                                                In the name of God Amen  —  I Seth Washburn

                of Leicester in the County of Worcester & Commonwealth of Massachusetts Esqr being at this time in a low state of Health but through the goodness of God of a sound disposing mind and memory and knowing that it is appointed for all men once to die do make and ordain this my last Will & Testament and first and principally I give and bequeath my precious and immortal Soul into the hand of God who gave it me (when ever it shall please him to call), And my Body to the Earth from whence it was taken to be buried in a decent manner at the discression of my Executor herein hereafter named nothing doubting but at the general Ressurrection I shall receive the same again by the Mighty power of God. And as touching the worldly goods & Estate wherewith it has pleased God by his Blessing upon my Industry to endow me, I give bequeath & Devise as follows

Imprimis. To Sarah my beloved Wife I give and bequeath all the Household furniture which she had when we married and three cows, and a Horse to ride, a pair of Oxen and the Cart and wheels and a hoe & Draft chain, an Ox & plow—the tools and Creatures during her natural Life but at her decease the said Creatures & tools or the value of them to revert to my Heirs, and I give my said Wife the Indentures of John & Polly Terry, if my Decease should happen, before they are out and the income of the place that was hers During her life time agreeable to her first Husbands will reference thereto being had— I give and devise to my Grandson Seth Washburn son of my deceased son Seth Sixty Acres of Land in Callis in the State of Vermont to him his Heirs and assigns forever which with what I gave to his deceased Father is one full share of my Estate, provided nevertheless if that he should die childless the said Land to revert back to my Surviving Heirs—

Item, I give my weareing apparel to my two sons—Joseph and Asa—

Item, I give and bequeath to my unmarried Daughters the use of the North Chamber in the in the House which I own in the North part of Leicester together with a priviledge in the Kitchen, Cellar and Well and Liberty to bake in the oven in the North room and to get Wood on the farm so long as they shall remain Single—

Item—To my sons Joseph & Asa, I give bequeath and devise to them their Heirs and assigns forever the whole of my lands in Callis not above disposed of to be equally divided between them. Furthermore it is my will that my Real Estate not disposed of should be sold & that my Just debts and funeral charges be paid out of the proceeds thereof, or of my personal Estate as shall be most convenient—And I do hereby constitute and appoint my son Joseph Washburn Sole Executor of this my last Will and Testament, hereby authorizing him to sell and dispose of all my Real and personal Estate excepting the indoor moveables which I give and bequeath to my Daughters to be devided as will be hereafter mentioned—And the whole amount of my Interest after my Just debts and funeral charges are paid to be Equally devided between my Children, Viz., Joseph, Asa, Marah, Hannah, Sarah Amittai & Lucia with this proviso that the two sons are to have no reference in this devission to what they have recived of my Estate but those of the Daughters who have recived no part of their portion are to be made Equal to those who have, before the general devission takes place and as they are all of age, I see no need of an appraisement—

Item. The Blacksmith Tools, and the farming tools not given to my wife I give to my two sons any thing above written notwithstanding—And I do hereby utterly disannul and revoke all former or other wills or Instruments by me made and I do ratify and Confirm this to be my last Will and Testament— In Witness whereof I do hereunto set my Seal the Ninth day of December in the year of our Lord 1790—

Signed, Sealed, published & declared in

presence of us—                  Matthew Jackson

                                                Joseph Wicker                      }                                             Seth Washburn                 (seal)

                                                Ebenr. Washburn

We the subscribers hereby freely fully and absolutely Relinquish that part of the Legacy and bequest made to us by our late Hond Father deceased in the within written Instrument which relates to our using and improving the dwelling House and firewood on the farm in the North part of the Town of Leicester— In Testamony whereof we have hereunto set our hands this fourth day of March A.D. 1794                                                             Hannah Washburn

Test        Ebenr Washburn                                                                                  Lucy Washburn

                Matthw Washburn  [sic—Jackson?]

 

Worcester Ss. To all people who shall see these presents Joseph Dorr Esq. Judge of the Probate of Wills & in aforsaid County within the Commonwealth of Massachusetts—

                                                                                                                                                                Sendeth Greeting

                Know ye that on the fourth day of March A.D. 1794. The Instrument hereunto annexed purporting the last Will and Testament of Seth Washburn late of Leicester in said County Esqr. deceased—was presented for Probate by Joseph Washburn the Executor therein named, then present Matthw Jackson & Ebenezer Washburn two of the witnesses thereto subscribed, who made Oath that they saw the said Testator sign Seal and heard him declare the said Instrument to be his last Will and Testament, and that they with Joseph Wicker, subscribed, their names together as Witnesses to the Execution there of in the said Testators presence & that he was then to the best of their Judgement of a sound, disposeing mind, I do prove approve and allow of the said Instrument as the last Will & Testament of said Deceased, and do commit the Administration thereof in all Matters of the same concerning, & of his Estate whereof he died seized and possessed in said Commonwealth unto the before named Executor well & Faithfully to Execute said Will & to administer the Estate of said deceased according thereto, who accepts of his said trust, & he hath given bonds for the faithfull discharge of said trusts, & shall render an account of his proceedings where thereto Lawfully required—

                In Testimony whereof I hereunto set my hand & Seal of Office this day and year abovesaid             Jas Dorr  J Prob

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Worcester County Probate Vol. 25, p. 422-424, from FHL microfilm #0856314.

 

 

Will of Silas Worshburn of North Castle, Westchester County, New York (1785) *

                In the Name of God Amen the eighteenth day of July in the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred & eighty five I Silas Worshburn of North Castel in the County of Westchester and State of New York Gentleman being very week in bodey but of parfect mind and memory thanks be given unto Good therefore calling unto mind the mortality of my bodey and knowing that it is appinted for all men men once to dye Do make and ordain this my last Will and Testament that is to say principely and first of all I give and recommend my soul into the hands of God that gave it and for my bodey I recommend it to the earth to be bured in a Christain like and desent manner at the decrison of my Executors and as touching such worley estate wharewith it thath pleased God to bless me in this life I give and devise and despose of the same in the following mannar and form.– Imprimis, Item First my Will is that all my just depts. and funarl Charges be paid & satisfied.– Item my Will is that my Executors shall sell so much land of the south eand of my farm as shall pay all my just depts.– Item my Will is and I give and bequeath unto Mary my dearly beloved Wife one feather bed and beding togather with one silvar Cup and six sillver tea spoons and olso one side saddel  and also my Iarn gray mare – Item and my Will is that my dearly beloved Wife shall have the whole use of all my farme togather with the whole use of all my houshold goods stock and farmang utenchels to bring up my Children with that is to say until my youngest son shall arive to the age of fourteen years.– Itam my Will is and I give and bequeath unto my Well beloved Son Bethell the sum of teen pounds out of my estate befor devison.– Item I give unto my dafter Daborah one feather bed and beding befor devison.– Itam & my Will is that all my estate rail and parsonal exept what I have before given given to my Wifee son and dafter shall be sold at the discrison of my Executers and that the moneys that shall arise tharfrom to be deviaded as followeth that is the one third part I give unto my dearly beloved wife Mary the other two thirds to be eaquely devided betwean my sons and dafters that is my son Bethuel and my son Caleb and my dafter Phebe and my dafter Elezebeth and my son Silas and my son Derias and my dafter Mary and my dafter Hanar and my son Robert and my daughter Freelove and my dafter Daborah and my son Jacob and my Will is that my dearly beloved wife Mary and my well belov’d son Bethuel shall be my Executers whome I likewise constute make and ordain my onely and soley Executers of this my last Will and testament and I do hearby utterly disalow revoak and and disanul all and every other former tesaments, Wills, legaces and Executer by me in aney ways before this time named willed and bequeathed rattifying and confirming this and no other to be my last Will and testament–In Witness whereof I have hearunto set my hand and seal this day and Year above Ritten.—

                                                                                                                                                Silas Worshburn                              (seal)

                Signed, sealed, published, pronounsed and declared by the said Silas Worshburn as his last Will and testament in the presents of us the Subscribers.—Joseph Worshburn, John Green, Jacob Carpenter.—

 

Presented for Probate on 6 Sept. 1786, and proved by Jacob Carpenter, of North Castle, Westchester County, Yeoman, one of the witnesses. Letters of Administration granted to Mary Worshburn and Bethuel Worshburn, the Executors, on 15 Sept. 1786.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from New York County Probate, Vol. 39, p. 296-298, copied from Old Liber, p. 249-251.

 

 

Will of Silas Washburn of Freedom, Dutchess County, New York (1825) *

                The last will and Testament of Silas Washburn Farmer of the Town of Freedom County of Dutchess & State of New York— — I Silas Washburn of the Town County & State aforesaid considering the uncertainty of this Mortal life & being of sound disposing mind and memory (for which I am thankful to Almighty God) do make and publish this my Last will and Testament in manner & form as follows that is to say – first, I will and direct that all my just debts and funeral charges be paid and to that purpose I authorize and empower my Executors hereinafter named to sell so much of my real & personal Estate (and at such time or times as they in their discretion may think most advisable and to the best interests of my property as will be sufficient – I will and bequeath to my wife Martha Washburn the one third part of my real estate, thereby confirming her right of dower and in addition thereto I give her two cows two beds & bedding and two hogs all of which she may select from such cows Beds & bedding & hogs as I may die possessed of –

I also give and bequeath to my Son Daniel Washburn the sum of Six hundred Dollars over and above the sum of money which I do not recollect that he paid towards my farm the past spring –

I also will and bequeath to my son Henry S. Washburn the sum of two hundred & fifty dollars – I also will and bequeath to my daughter Polly Morey the wife of Wm R B Morey the sum of twenty five dollars in addition to whatever of my estate she may have heretofore received. I also will and bequeath to my daughter Deborah Morey the wife of Joseph Morey the sum of thirty seven and half dollars in addition to whatever of my estate she may have heretofore received – I also will and bequeath to my five remaining daughters to wit to my daughter Catharine, my daughter Jemima, my daughter Eliza, my daughter Phebe and my daughter Martha All the rest and residue of my estate of whatever description to be equally divided between them, provided such division should not exceed the sum of two hundred & fifty dollars—if it should I will and direct that my Executors should make my son Henry S Washburn equal to my five last mentioned daughters –

                I also nominate and appoint my friends John Wilkinson & James Congdon Jur. & my son Daniel Washburn Executors to this my last will & testament hereby revoking all former wills by me heretofore made – In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this 28th day of August in the year of our Lord 1825

                                                                                                                                                       his

Signed sealed published                                                                                                     Silas  X  Washburn                             (seal)

& declared as & for the last                                                                                                       mark

will and Testament of Silas Washburn in our presence and

in the presence of the Testator –

John Billins, Darius Washburn, Egbert Cary

The words “Freedom & my” interlined before Execution.

 

Presented for probate on 10 Sept. 1825, and proved by John Billins and Darius Washburn, two of the witnesses.

Letters of Administration were granted to Daniel Washburn and James Congdon Junior, two of the Executors, on 10 Sept. 1825.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Dutchess County Probate, Liber G, p. 288-291.

 

 

Will of Silas Washburn of Davenport, Delaware County, New York (1855) *

        In the name of God Amen: I Silas Washburn of the town of Davenport in the County of Delaware and State of New York of the age of Seventy eight years, and being of sound mind and memory (Blessed be God for the same) do make publish & declare this my last Will and Testament in manner following that is to say-

1st I have provided for the support and maintenance of myself & my wife during our and each of our natural lives by the Bond of James Evans, now in my possession and I give and bequeath to my dear wife Polly the provisions for her support and maintenance as contained in said Bond to be enjoined by her without Charge against her for the same; and I further order & direct my executors to place one thousand dollars at interest and to pay the interest accruing upon the same to my wife annually for her own use and benefit and if in the Providence of God the above provisions for my wife shall prove inadequate to her support and maintenance and the expenses of her sickness and funeral charges, then & in that case, any deficiency may be paid out of the principal of the said one thousand dollars –

2d I give and bequeath to Anna Mary Evans and Silas W Evans Children of James Evans all and every part of the above mentioned One thousand Dollars which shall remain unexpended at my wifes decease–and the same to be equally divided between the said Anna Mary and Silas W Evans, share and share alike–.

3d I give and bequeath to Joseph Barnum son of Ira Barnum five hundred dollars and one bed and bedding –

4th I give and bequeath to Sally Barnum Daughter of Ira Barnum five hundred dollars and one bed & bedding

5th I give and bequeath to Harriet Evans Daughter of James Evans one bed & bedding –

6th I give and bequeath to Jane Evans daughter of James Evans one bed and bedding ~

7th I give devise and bequeath to James Evans all the rest residue and remainder of my Real & Personal Estate goods & chattels of what name or kind soever –

        Lastly – I do hereby nominate and appoint my friends James Evans of Davenport Delaware County and Ira Barnum of Jefferson Schoharie County to be Executors of this my last Will and Testament hereby revoking all former wills by me made

        In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal the fourth day of July in the year of our Lord one thousand Eight hundred and fifty five –

                                                                                                                                                Silas Washburn                (seal)

The above Instrument consisting of one half sheet was at the date thereof viz July 4th 1855 signed sealed published and declared by the said Silas Washburn as & for his last Will and Testament in presence of us, who at his request and in his presence and in the presence of each other have subscribed our names as Witnesses

                                                                Robert S. Gallt     Harpersfield

                                                                Joseph Gallt          Harpersfield

 

Probated on 7 Dec. 1855, and proved by Robert S. Gallt of the town of Delhi in the County of Delaware.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Delaware County Wills, Vol. E, p. 504-505, from FHL microfilm #832861.

 

 

Will of Simon Washburn of Macomb, St. Lawrence County, New York (1884) *

In the Name of God, Amen. I Simon Washburn of Macomb St. Lawrence, being of sound mind and memory and considering the uncertainty of this frail and transitory life do therefore make, ordain, publish and declare this to be my last will and testament, that is to say,

First, After all my lawful debts are paid and discharged, I give and bequeath to my wife Lucinda Washburn all my real and personal property lands and tenements and stock and farming utensels all debts and demands choses in action which shall be due me at the time of my death to her use and support as long as she the said Lucinda Washburn shall live and said support shall be governed by her station in life and her health while she shall live. After the death of the said Lucinda my present wife the property remaining shall be equally devided between my children of my last Marriage to wit. Herbert H. Washburn son, William H. Washburn son, Winford S. Washburn son, Franklin Washburn, the children of my first wife I consider I have already given an Equtable portion of property aside of the property I now possess. The property at my decease shall be left to the use occupation and control of my present wife Lucinda Washburn as long as the said Lucinda Washburn shall be of sound mind and capable of managing the estate & affairs incident thereto.

After the decease of the said Lucinda what property shall remain beyond her support shall be Equally and Equitabely devided as before stated between my four youngest children being the children of my last wife the said Lucinda Washburn.

Likewise I make, constitute and appoint my half brother Andrew J. Rounds and my wife Lucinda Washburn to be Executers and administrators of this my last will and testament hereby revoking all former wills by me made.

In witness whereof I have hereunto subscribed my name and affixed my seal the Eleventh day of June, in the year of our Lord one thousand Eight hundred and Eighty four,

                                                                                                                                                Simon Washburn                             (seal)

The above written instrument was subscribed by the said Simon Washburn in our presence, and acknowledged by him to each of us; and he at the same time declared the above instrument, so subscribed, to be his last will and testament; and we at his request, have signed our names as witnesses hereto, in his presence and in the presence of each other, and written opposite our names our respective places of residence,

Alexander B. Lanney  Heuvelton  NY,

James Bean   Heuvelton

 

Erased Abel Rounds and inserted Andrew J. Rounds as administrator in second line of appointment of same

 

Presented for probate on 9 Apr. 1885 by Andrew J. Rounds, the Executor, who listed his heirs as his widow Lucinda Washburn, Herbert Washburn, William Washburn, Winford Washburn and Franklin Washburn, all minors, of Macomb, NY, Rufus Washburn and Killiner [sic] Washburn, both of DeKalb, NY, and Joseph Washburn, of Gouverneur, NY. R. E. Waterman was appointed as Special Guardian of the minors on 4 May 1885.

 

Andrew J. Rounds and Lucinda Washburn was granted Letters Testamentary on the estate of Simon Washburn on 4 May 1885.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from St. Lawrence County Probate Vol. 19, p. 617-619, from FHL microfilm #0890025, and Letters Testamentary Vol. 8, p. 267.

 

 

Will of Solomon Washburn of Middleborough, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1825) *

In the name of God, Amen. I Solomon Washburn of Middleborough in the County of Plymouth and Commonwealth of Massachusetts Cordwainer, being weak in body, and considering the uncertainty of this mortal live, and being of sound mind and memory (blessed be almighty God for the same) do make and publish this as my last Will and Testament in manner and form following (that is to say)

First I give and bequeath to my beloved wife Anna Washburn, the use and income of all my property, whether Real, Personal or mixed, to hold to her during her natural life, she making no unnecessary waste or destruction thereupon; and after her decease I give and bequeath to my youngest son Lewis Washburn of Middleborough aforesaid the one half of all my real estate, farming tools and neat stock, to hold to him and to his heirs and assigns forever. — — Also, I give and bequeath to my two Grand-daughters Anne Hayward and Harriet Hayward (children of my daughter Anne Hayward late of South Bridgewater deceas’d) my smallest feather bed with the bedstead and one pair of sheets and one coverlid. And because I have heretofore given something to my son Reuben Washburn of Troy in the State of Vermont; and also assisted and help’d my son Zenas Washburn (late of East Bridgewater deceas’d) to some property, in time past; therefore I shall make no farther provision for them or their heirs in this my last Will and Testament.

        And as to the other half of my real Estate, farming tools and neat stock; after my Executor shall have paid my just debts and funeral charges out of the same; then the remainder thereof (be it more or less) shall be equally divided between my three following sons viz. my son Solomon Washburn of South Bridgewater, my son Nahum Washburn of Halifax and my son Thomas Washburn of Middleborough, all in the County of Plymouth aforesaid, to hold to them and to their heirs and assigns forever. — Also, I give and bequeath all the remainder of my household furniture and other property of every kind (not above disposed of) to be equally divided between my four following sons, to them and their heirs viz. Solomon Washburn, Nahum Washburn, Thomas Washburn and Lewis Washburn above named.

And I do hereby appoint my son Thomas Washburn aforesaid Sole executor of this my last Will and Testament.

In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this twenty sixth day of August in the year of our Lord Eighteen hundred and twenty five—

                                                                                                                                                Solomon Washburn                         (seal)

Signed, sealed and declared by the above

named Solomon Washburn to be his last

Will and Testament, in presence of us, who

have hereunto subscribed our names as Wit-

nesses in presence of the Testator -

                Livy Morton

                Hazael Tinkham Jr.

                Hazael Tinkham

 

Probated on 1 Nov. 1825, proved in court by Livy Morton and Hazael Tinkham, two of the witnesses, and son Thomas Washburn confirmed as executor.

 

Thos. Bennet, Esqr. & Hazael Tinkham & Livy Morton, all of Middleborough, were appointed to appraise the estate of Solomon Washburn, late of Middleborough, cordwainer, on 1 Nov. 1825. The Inventory, dated 7 Nov. 1825, totaled $885.77, his real estate of one undivided half of the lands & buildings was valued at $625. Thomas Washburn 2d, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 20 Feb. 1826.

 

* Transcribed  by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 59, p. 481-483, from FHL microfilm #0550910 (will), and Vol. 60, p. 128-129, from FHL microfilm #0550911 (inventory).

 

 

Will and Codicil of Stephen Washburn of Ossining, Westchester County, New York (1859) *

                In the Name of God Amen I Stephen Washburn of the town of Ossining in the County of Westchester and State of New York being of sound mind and memory (Blessed be God for the same) do hereby make publish and declare my last Will and Testament in manner and form following that is to say

                First  I hereby authorize and empower my Executors hereinafter named to sell and dispose of all the real Estate of which I may die seized except the farm of land situate in the town of Ossining and Mount Pleasant which I purchased of my Son Whitson Washburn including a small piece of land adjoining the same which I purchased of Benjamin A. Washburn of about one and a half acres which is to go with said farm and I authorize and empower my said Executors to give good and sufficient deeds or deeds of conveyance of the land so sold by them to the purchasers

                Second  I give devise and bequeath to my Son Stephen Washburn all my said farm of land above mentioned situate in the town of Ossining and Mount Pleasant which I purchased of Whitson Washburn including the small piece of land I purchased of Benjamin A. Washburn adjoining the said farm To have and to hold the same to him and to his heirs and assigns forever Subject to a Mortgage thereof of Four hundred dollars now open and held by Abraham Washburn The payment of which said Mortgage I hereby charge upon the said premises

                Third  I order my Executors hereinafter named to invest on Bond and Mortgage on unencumbered real Estate the sum of Four thousand dollars of my Estate and to pay the interest and income therefrom to my wife Phebe for and during the term of her natural life The same to be paid in equal half yearly payments I also give and bequeath to my said Wife all my household furniture of every description and I declare the provision herein made for my said Wife to be in lieu of dower and thirds in my Estate

                Fourth  I give and bequeath to my grandson Nathaniel Griffin Five hundred dollars when he arrives at the age of twenty one years and if he should die before arriving at that age then I order the said sum to go into the residue of my Estate

                Fifth  I give and bequeath to my grand daughter Ann Augusta Wright the sum of Two hundred dollars

                Sixth  I give and bequeath to my daughter Ann Eliza out of the proceeds of my said real and my personal Estate the sum of Two thousand one hundred & 28 dollars

                Seventh  I give and bequeath to my son Joseph out of the proceeds of my said real and personal Estate the sum of Six hundred and fifty dollars

                Eighth  I give and bequeath to my daughter Harriet out of the proceeds of my said real and personal Estate the sum of One thousand and four Hundred dollars

                Ninth  I give and bequeath to my daughter Ophelia out of the proceeds of my said real and personal Estate the sum of One thousand four hundred and fifty dollars

                Tenth  I give and bequeath to my son Richard out of the proceeds of my said real and personal Estate the sum of One thousand four hundred and fifty dollars

                Eleventh  I give and bequeath unto my daughter Abigail out of the proceeds of my said real and personal Estate the sum of One thousand four hundred and fifty dollars

                Twelfth  I given and bequeath to my grand son William Henry Washburn son of my son Whitson the sum of One thousand four hundred and fifty dollars of the said proceeds of my said real and personal estate in Trust nevertheless for my said grand son to invest the same on good security and to pay to my said son Whitson Washburn the interest income and proceeds thereof during the life time of my said son Whitson for his support and maintenance and in the discretion of my said grand son William Henry Washburn to pay and apply to the Surrogate and maintenance of my said Whitson Washburn such part or portion of the said principal sum of One thousand four hundred and fifty dollars he may deem necessary at any time hereafter for the comfortable support of my said son and upon the death of my said son and upon the death of my said son Whitson I give the said principal sum of One thousand four hundred and fifty dollars or such part or portion thereof as shall remain unexpended for the support of my said son Whitson to my grand daughter Lydia Ann Washburn and my said grand son William Henry Washburn share and share alike

                Thirteenth  I order and direct my Executors hereinafter named to invest on bond and Mortgage on unencumbered real estate the further sum of One thousand four hundred and fifty dollars of the proceeds of my said real and personal Estate and to collect the income and interest thereof yearly and every year and pay the same to my daughter Caroline the Wife of John Jones during the term of her natural life and on the death of my said daughter I give and bequeath the said sum of One thousand four hundred and fifty dollars in equal portions to the children of my said daughter Caroline then living and if any child or children of said daughter shall then be dead leaving a child or children then the child or children of the one so dying shall take the same share which his or her parent would have taken if living

                Fourteenth  If my Estate should be insufficient to pay and satisfy all the above legacies in full then I order and direct the deficiency shall be deducted from the Eight legacies last above given and that they shall be reduced rateably or in proportion to their several amounts

                Fifteenth  On the death of my said Wife I give and bequeath the one seventh part of the said sum of Four thousand dollars ordered to be invested for her benefit to each of my following named children that is to say Richard, Caroline, Abigail, Harriet, Ophelia and Ann Eliza and as to the other seventh part thereof I then give and bequeath the same to my grand son William Henry Washburn in Trust for my said son Whitson to be added to the said sum of One thousand four hundred and fifty dollars hereinbefore given to my said grand son in trust as aforesaid and held by him upon the same trusts in all respect as are hereinbefore declared as to the said sum of One thousand four hundred and fifty dollars during the life time of my said son Whitson and on the death of my said son I give and bequeath the same or such part thereof as shall remain unexpended for the support of my said son to my grand daughter Lydia Ann Washburn and my said grand son William Henry Washburn

                Sixteenth  I give devise and bequeath all the rest residue and remainder of my property of every nature and description to my nine children now living to be divided equally between them share and share alike

                Seventeenth  I hereby nominate constitute and appoint my friend David Reed and my son in law Lewis Kniffin Executors of this my last Will and Testament hereby revoking all former and other Wills by me at any time heretofore made

                In Witness Whereof I have hereunto set my hand & seal this 24th day of May 1859

                                                                                                                                                Stephen Washburn                          (seal)

                Signed sealed published and declared by the said Testator Stephen Washburn to be his last Will and Testament in the presence of us who at his request and in his presence have hereunto subscribed our names as witnesses The words “two” on the last line but one and the figures “28” on the last line of 2nd page written on erasurer before execution

M. L. Cobb of Sing Sing Westchester County N. York

Henry C. Nelson of Sing Sing Westchester County New York

 

                I Stephen Washburn of the town of Ossining in the County of Westchester do hereby make publish and declare this instrument to be a Codicil to my last Will and Testament bearing date the 24th day of May in the year 1859 and hereunto annexed

                First I hereby revoke the appointment of David Reed as one of the Executors of my said Will and hereby appoint as Executors thereof my sons Stephen Washburn Junior and Richard Washburn who with my son in law Lewis Kniffin named in said Will are to be the only Executors of my said last Will and Testament

Dated June 16th 1860                                                                                                          Stephen Washburn                          (seal)

                Signed sealed published and declared by the said Stephen Washburn to be a Codicil to his last Will and Testament in the presence of us who at his request in his presence and in the presence of each other have hereunto subscribed our names as witnesses

M. L. Cobb  Sing Sing Westchester County N. York

Geo. W. Cartwright Ju’r  Sing Sing

 

Stephen Washburn Jr. applied for probate of the will of Stephen Washburn, late of Ossining, deceased, on 15 Nov. 1860. The hearing was set for 5 Dec. 1860.

Henry C. Nelson, of Ossining proved the Will on 5 Dec. 1860, M. L. Cobb, of Ossining, proved the Will and the Codicil on 5 Dec. 1860, and Geo. W. Cartwright, of Ossining, proved the Codicil on 5 Dec. 1860.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Westchester County Probate, Wills Vol. 42, p. 568-582.

 

 

Will of Susan Washburn of Mount Pleasant, Westchester County, New York (1855) *

        In the name of God Amen. I Susan Washburn of the Town of Mount Pleasant in the County of Westchester and the State of New York of the age of Eighty six years and being of sound mind and memory do make publish and declare this my last Will and Testament in manner following that is to say:      I give and bequeath to my daughter Amy Washburn the intruste on all money or notes that may be left after my death for her use during her natural life, for her to have the use of the property left by me, or the intrust of it during her life, and after her death to be equally divided to my remaining children, and the heirs of those not living to receive their parents share.

        I do hereby nominate and appoint my Son Abraham Washburn and Oliver J. Washburn to be the Executors of this my last Will and Testament hereby revoking all former Wills by me made.

        In Witness Whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal the twelfth day of September in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and fifty five.

                                                                                                                                                Susan Washburn

The above instrument consisting of one sheet was at the date thereof signed, sealed, published and declared by the said Susan Washburn as and for her last Will and Testament, in presence of us who at her request and in her presence, and in the presence of each other have subscribed our names as witnesses thereto

        Hiram Fisher Mount Pleasant

Charles C. Kipp of New Castle

Bartholomew R. Washburn Mount Pleasant

 

Oliver J. Washburn, one of the executors of the last Will and Testament of Susan Washburn, late of Mount Pleasant, petitioned for probate of her will on 20 Aug. 1861. He provided evidence on 14 Oct. 1861 that the heirs had been notified.

 

Proved by Charles C. Kipp of the Town of New Castle, and Hiram Fisher of Mount Pleasant, two of the witnesses, on 14 Oct. 1861.

 

Letters of Administration granted to Oliver J. Washburn, one of the Executors, on 14 Oct. 1861.

 

Oliver J. Washburn testified on 14 Oct. 1861 that he notified Warren Sarles and Abraham Sarles on 14 Sept. 1861, Amy Washburn on 16 Sept. 1861, Noah Washburn and Abraham Washburn on 27 Sept. 1861, George Moseman and Adelia Moseman on 28 Sept. 1861, Jane Whitson on 30 Sept. 1861, Archer Sarles and Mary Sarles on 30 Sept. 1861, Joseph Sarles and Jesse Washburn on 3 Oct. 1861, Caleb U. Washburn on 4 Oct. 1861, of the probate of the will of Susan Washburn on 14 Oct. 1861. The notice was addressed to Noah Washburn, Abraham Washburn, and Caleb U. Washburn, of Mount Pleasant, Jesse Washburn, Amy Washburn, Abraham Sarles, Joseph Sarles, and Warren Sarles, of New Castle, Jane Whitson, of Ossining, Archer Sarles and Mary his wife of Cortlandt, George Moseman and Adelia his wife, of the City and County of New York, Oliver H. Washburn, of New London, Huron Co., Ohio, Wright Washburn, of Morris, Illinois, Artemus Miller and Adelia his wife, of Kendall Co., Illinois, George Delazene and Sarah his wife, of Detroit, Michigan, and Tamar Washburn, whose place of residence is unknown and cannot be ascertained. Heirs listed by Oliver J. Washburn on 14 Oct. 1861 were: Sarah E. Dale and Caleb N. Washburn of Lelands, LaSalle Co., Joseph Whitson, of Freeland, DeKalb Co., Adilia Miller of Sandwich, DeKalb Co., all in the State of Illinois, Sarah T. Hershel of Jersey City, New Jersey, Phebe Jane Brundage  and Irene B. Williams of Cortlandt, Westchester Co., New York, Susan A. Whitson, Almira Smith, Rebecca J. W. Whited, of Yonkers, New York, Warren Sarles, Abram Sarles, and Jesse Washburn, of New Castle, Westchester Co., New York, Noah Washburn of Mt. Pleasant, Westchester Co., New York, Flora Sarles, Emma Sarles, and William Sarles, of Peekskill, Cortlandt, Westchester Co., New York, Adelia Moseman of the City of Brooklyn, New York, Wright Washburn of Constantia, Oswego Co., New York, Oliver Washburn, of New London, Ohio, Maria Couch, Costilla Wenck and Janett Bowditch, of City of New York, Tamar Washburn, of Utah Territory, the place unknown, the Children of Sarah Delizene, deceased, supposed to be residing somewhere in the States of Illinois and Massachusetts, all of full age except Emma Sarles, Flora Sarles, and William Sarles, who are all minors under 14 years of age, and Aaron W. Delazine and Georgianna Delazine and Jennie and Ida Houston, whose places of residence are unknown.

 

Solomon Washburn and Andrew Reynolds were appointed to appraise the estate of Susan Washburn, late of Mount Pleasant, on 14 Oct. 1861. The inventory was dated 29 Oct. 1861, recorded on 14 July 1862, and totaled $1274.50, including several large Notes of Hand.

 

Heirs were listed before the 1876 final accounting as: sons & daughters of the testatrix: Noah Washburn, one full share, Jessee Washburn, one full share, and Tamar Washburn, one full share; children of Jane Whitson, a deceased daughter of the testatrix: Sarah Dale, Joseph Whitson, Susan Whitson, Almira Smith, and Rebeca W. Whited, each entitled to 1/5th of one full share; children of Mary Sarles, a deceased daughter of the testatrix: Phebe Jane Brundage, Irene Williams, and Sarah T. Hershel, each entitled to 1/5th of one full share; children of William Sarles, a deceased son of Mary Sarles, a deceased daughter of the testatrix: Emma Sarles, Flora Sarles, and Wm Sarles, each entitled to 1/3rd of 1/5th of one full share; son of Jesse K. Sarles, a deceased son of Mary Sarles, a deceased daughter of the testatrix: Charles Wesley Sarles, entitled to 1/5th of one full share; children of Isaac Washburn, a deceased son of the testatrix: Oliver Washburn, Wright Washburn, and Adelia Miller, each entitled to 1/3rd of one share; children of Sally Sarles, a deceased daughter of the testatrix: Joseph Sarles, Abram Sarles, Warren Sarles, and Adelia Moseman, each entitled to 1/4th of one full share; son of Richard Washburn, a deceased son of the testatrix: Caleb U. Washburn, entitled to 1/4th of one full share; children of Maria Webber, a deceased daughter of Richard Washburn, a deceased son of the testatrix: Jennett Bowditch, Maria Couch, and Castilla Weuck, each entitled to 1/3rd of 1/4th of a full share; children of a deceased daughter of Aaron Washburn, who was a deceased son of Richard Washburn, a deceased son of the testatrix: Jennie Houston and Ida Houston, each entitled to 1/2 of 1/4th of a full share; children of Sarah Delazine, a deceased daughter of Richard Washburn, a deceased son of the testatrix: Aaron W. Delazine and Georgianna Delazine, each entitled to 1/2 of 1/4th of a full share.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Westchester County Probate, Wills Vol. 44, p. 67-72, and estate papers, Docket #191 for 1861.

 

 

Will of Sylvanus Washburn of Milton, Chittenden County, Vermont (1867) *

I Sylvenus Washburn of Milton in the county of Chittendon & state of Vermont, being in a very infirm state of health, and sensible too of my liableness to sudden death, at the same time being in my own apprehensives of sound mind, do judge it best to make, and accordingly do hereby make, this my last will and testament.

It is my will that all my just debts and the charges of my funeral be paid and discharged by my executor, hereinafter named and appointed, out of my estate, and I leave the charge of my funeral to the directions of my said executor.

I give, devise and dispose of my estate, real and personal (save what shall be necessary for the payment of my just debts and funeral charges) in the following manner.

I give to my beloved wife Salona Washburn, during her life, all of my estate both real and personal.

I give to my sons and daughters—Lois Watson, Norman Washburn, Caroline Washburn, Harmon Washburn, Louisa Merrill and Evaline M. Bar, after the death of my said wife, all of my said estate both real and personal, so by this will devised to her, save what shall be used necessarily by her during her lifetime—said property to be equally divided between my said sons and daughters. 

And in the event that any one or more of my said children should die befor my said wife Then his or her share to go to his or her representatives in equal proportion.

And I hereby nominate, constitute, and appoint William A. Thompson of said Milton to be Executor of this my last will and testament.

In testimony whereof I hereunto set my hand and seal, and publish and declare this to be my last will and testament this 7th day of June AD 1867.

                                                                                                                                                                his                                          

                                                                                                                                                Sylvenus X Washburn                        (Seal)

                                                                                                                                                                mark

 

Signed, sealed, published and declared by the said Sylvenus Washburn as his last will and testament, in presence of us, who have hereunto subscribed our names as witnesses thereto, at the request and in the presence of the said testator and in the presence of each other.

                      L. J. Dixon

                      Richard Flinn

                      C.W. Witters

 

Presented for probate on 22 June 1867, and proved by C. W. Witters on 13 July 1867.

 

[Note by Warren B. Wall, January, 2000: The date of the will, June 7, 1867, verifies that the date on the death certificate of Jan. 17, 1867, is in error, while the date on the headstone of June 17, 1867, is probably correct.]

 

* Transcribed by Warren B. Wall of Pasadena, TX, from a photocopy obtained from the town of Milton in ca. 1981.

 

 

Will of Sylvester Washburn of Macomb, St. Lawrence County, New York (1859) *

I Sylvester Washburn of the town of Macomb in the County of St Lawrence & State of New York of the age of thirty-three years and being of sound mind & memory do make publish & declare this my last will & testament in manner following that is to say-

First I give & bequeath to my wife Jane Washburn after the payments of my Just and legal debts all my property both real and personal I hereby empower Jane Washburn & Alexander McCoy the Executrix & Executor of this my last will & testament hereinafter nominated & appointed to sell all my real or personal Estate at public or private sale at such time or times & upon such terms & in such manner as to them shall seem meet.

Lastly I do nominate & appoint my wife Jane Washburn Executrix & Alexander McCoy Executor of this my last will & testament

                In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand & seal this 24th day of October in the year of our Lord one thousand Eight hundred & fifty=nine

                                                                                                                                                Sylvester Washburn                        (seal)

   The above instrument consisting of one sheet was at the thereof signed sealed published & declared by the said Sylvester Washburn as & for his last will & testament in presence of us who at his request & in his presence & in presence of each other, have subscribed our names as witnesses thereto

                David Day 2d residing at Macomb St Lawrence County

                Martha S. Rounds residing at Depeyster St Lawrence County

 

Presented for probate on 24 Jan. 1860 by Alexander McCoy one of the Executors named, naming his heirs as his widow Jane Washburn, and six children Aurilla Washburn, Martha Washburn, Cynthia, Alvin Washburn, James Washburn and Sylvester Washburn, all under 14, David Day 2d having been appointed Special Guardian, all residing in Macomb, St. Lawrence County.

 

Jane Washburn and Alexander McCoy were granted Letters Testamentary on the estate of Sylvester Washburn on 26 Mar. 1860.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from St. Lawrence County Probate Wills Vol. 5, p. 427-428, from FHL microfilm #0890013, and Letters Testamentary Vol. 3, p. 681.

 

 

Will of Sylvester Washburne of New York City, New York (1868) *

                In the Name of God, Amen:

                                                                                                I, Sylvester Washburne of the City, County and State of New York, of the age of (37) thirty seven years and being of sound mind and memory do make, publish and declare this my last Will and Testament, in manner following, that is to say:

First, I give and bequeath to my wife Amelia Washburne, the undivided half interest of the business now being transacted at (708) Seven hundred and eight Broadway in the City of New York under the firm name of Washburne Brothers as manufacturers and dealers in the emblematic signs, weather vanes, etc. together with each and every interest thereunto belonging or in any wise appertaining.

Secondly: I also give and bequeath to my wife Amelia Washburne all my personal estate, goods and chattels of what kind soever now situated at (224) two hundred and twenty four east (46) forty sixth Street New York City.

Lastly, I hereby appoint my wife Amelia Washburne sole Executrix of this my last Will and Testament hereby revoking all former Wills by me made.

In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this (31) thirty first day of January in the year of our Lord (1868) one thousand eight hundred and sixty eight.

                                                                                                                                                Sylvester Washburne                      (seal)

The foregoing instrument consisting of one sheet was at the date thereof signed sealed published and declared by the said Sylvester Washburne as and for his last Will and Testament in presence of us, who at his request and in his presence and in the presence of each other have subscribed our names as witnesses thereto.

Witnesses  { David Wright  210 East 46th St. N.Y.                       (seal)

                     { E.C. Townsend  224 East 46th St. N.Y.                   (seal)     

 

Presented for probate on 16 Sept. 1873 by Amelia Washburne, the Executrix, and proved by David Wright and Eli C. Townsend on 29 Sept. 1873.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from New York County Probate, Wills Vol. 220, p. 81-84, copied from original Liber 220, p. 79-82.

 

 

Will of Thomas Washburn of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1821) *

        In the name of God Amen. I Thomas Washburn of Bridgwater in the County of Plymouth and Commonwealth of Massachusetts considering the uncertainty of life and being of sound and perfect mind and memory, Do make, ordain and publish this my last will and testament as follows viz.

First I give and bequeath unto Thomas Cushman of Bridgewater aforesaid the sum of two hundred and fifty dollars to be paid him in six months after my decease. Second, I give and bequeath to my kinsman Seth Washburn of said Bridgewater and his heirs all the residue of the estate both real and personal of which i shall die seized and possessed of whatever name or wherever to be found, after discharging my just debts and funeral charges on condition of his supporting Sylvia Mehurin out of said estate as is herein after directed. Third, I give and bequeath unto the said Sylvia Mehurin in consideration of her services in my family for several years past, and her good & prudent care of my affairs, a right to and a privilege of living in the house I now occupy with sufficient room for her convenience in said house and cellar and every article of provision and clothing necessary for a good, comfortable and sufficient living, to have her firewood provided and cut off at the door of suitable length for the fire, Bread Corn, Beef, Pork, vegetables and all other articles of provision necessary for her support, during her natural life provided she shall continue to live in said house, but not to receive the above legacy any longer than she does live in the said house. And I do hereby constitute and appoint the aforesaid Seth Washburn my sole executor of this my last will and testament. In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this second day of February in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and twenty one ——

Signed sealed, published,           }                                                                                      Thomas Washburn          (seal)

and declared by the above         }                                                                                      _______________________

named Thomas Washburn,       }

to be his last will and tes-          }                      Daniel Mitchell

tament, in presence of us,           }                      Holmes Sprague 

who at his request, and in           }                      Artemas Hale

his presence, have hereunto      }

subscribed our names, as           }

witnesses to the same.                }

 

Plymouth Ss. Court of Probate January 4–1825, Be it known that the foregoing Instrument purporting to be the last will and testament of Thomas Washburn late of Bridgewater in said County, yeoman deceased, being presented to me for probate and having examined the subscribing witnesses thereto and no objection being offered to the probate thereof, I decree that the said Instrument be allowed as the last will and testament of the said Thomas Washburn & the same is approved as such accordingly.                                                                      Wilkes Wood J. Probate

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 58, p. 482-484, from FHL microfilm #0550910.

 

 

Will of Thomas Washburn of Wareham, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1844) *

        Be it remembered that I Thomas Washburn of Wareham in the County of Plymouth and Commonwealth of Massachusetts Gentleman, being weak in body, but sound in mind and memory through the goodness of a Kind and merciful Providence, for which I desire to be truly grateful, do on this fifteenth day of January in the year one thousand eight hundred and forty four, make and publish this my last Will and Testament in manner following viz.

In the first place—I give and bequeath to my son William Washburn two hundred dollars in cash to be paid him by my Executor hereafter named within twelve months from the time of my decease, and also my desk.

Secondly–I give and bequeath to my son Thomas Washburn two hundred dollars in cash to be paid as above.—also my watch, and also my wearing apparel.—

Thirdly—I give and bequeath to my son Roland Washburn two hundred dollars in cash to be paid as above, and also my dining table.—

Fourthly—I give and bequeath to my daughter Sophia Barrows fifty dollars in cash.—also my bureau, and also my old fashioned arm chair ~

Fifthly–I give and bequeath to my daughter Ruth Jenny fifty dollars, also one feather bed, bolster and pillows, together with one third part of all my bedding furniture and one bedstead.—

Sixthly—I give and bequeath to my daughter Lydia Bates Swift fifty dollars, and six of my best chairs.—

Seventhly I give and bequeath to my daughter Lucinda Vaughn fifty dollars, if she be living at the time of my decease.—but if not—it is my will that the same be paid to her son Thomas Vaughn.—

Eighthly—I give and bequeath to my daughter Betsey Briggs White fifty dollars, also my largest looking glass, and also my tin trunk.—

Ninthly—I give and bequeath to Betsey Presho One feather bed, bolster, pillows, and bedstead, together with one third part of all my bedding furniture in consideration of extra services rendered, and kindness rendered and shown by her to me at all times and particularly in case of sickness.—

Tenthly—I give and bequeath to Peter Presho the one undivided half part of my riding carriage called a buggy wagon, together with one undivided half part of the harness thereto belonging.—

Eleventhly—It is my will that all the legacies aforesaid be paid to the named legatees as at first directed within twelve months of the time of my decease—and that all my debts and funeral charges be punctually paid, and all the rest and residue of my property not disposed to be equally divided between my three sons herein named which I hereby direct to be done.

Lastly—I do hereby appoint William G. White of New Bedford my Executor of this my last will and testament.

In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal the day and year first within written.—

Signed sealed and published

by the said Thomas Washburn

declaring this to be his last Will and                                                                               Thomas Washburn                          (seal)

testament in presence of us, who at

his request were called as witnesses to

the same, and in his presence did

hereto subscribe our names.

Wm Bates

Andrew Gibbs

Henry Burgess

 

Thomas Washburn – Will

                Wareham

                Died Dec 25 – 1866

                                                74 years old

                William G. White

                                                of New Bedford

                                                executor

                deposited by William Bates

                                                of Boston

 

        Last Will and Testament of

        Thomas Washburn of Wareham

                (William G. White of New Bedford named therein as Executor:

with a memoranda of notes and cash deposited in

the Wareham Bank.

                Deposited in the Probate Office by

Wm Bates of Boston, to be delivered as the law directs.

 

                                Wareham August 18 1846

Deposited in the Wareham Bank this day

for safe-keeping by Thomas Washburn two

promissory notes of which the following are

copies viz

                                Wareham August 1 1845

For Value received We promise to pay

Thomas Washburn or his order Nine

hundred dollars on demand with interest

        Signed                            Elijah W. Presho

                                                Peter Presho

 

                                Wareham November 1 1845

For Value received I promise to pay

Thomas Washburn or his order forty dollars

on demand and interest.

        Signed                            Peter Presho

 

        Also deposited five dollars in cash.

The aforegoing I this day deposited with

Thomas R. Miles Cashier of the Wareham

Bank.                                     Wm Bates

 

The aforegoing is a copy of an original paper

in my hands.                         Wm Bates

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Docket #22108A, from FHL microfilm #005377312, the will not recorded in the Plymouth County Probate Books.

 

 

Will of Thomas Washburn of Middleborough, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1870) *

Know All Men by these Presents, That I, Thomas Washburn of Middleborough in the County of Plymouth and State of Massachusetts, Farmer, being of sound disposing mind and memory, do make and publish this my last Will and Testament.

First. I give and bequeath to my beloved wife Charity Washburn a right to use all my household furniture with a right to occupy all or any part thereof of my homestead dwelling house, also an honorable and sufficient support during her natural life.

Second. I give and bequeath to my son William M. Washburn one fourth part of all my Real and Personal estate after deducting therefrom Five hundred dollars (having previously given him that amount) with the interest thereon until settled.

Third. I give and bequeath to my daughter Charity T. Atwood one fourth part of all my Real and Personal Estate after deducing therefrom One thousand dollars (having previously given her that amount) with the interest thereon until settled.

Fourth. I give and bequeath to my son Solomon L. Washburn one fourth part of all my Real and Personal Estate.

Fifth. I give and bequeath to my son Jonathan S. Washburn one fourth part of all my Real and Personal Estate.

Sixth. I ordain and appoint my sons Solomon L. Washburn and Jonathan S. Washburn as Executors of this my last Will and Testament.

It is my wish and request that each of my children should share equally in all my Real and Personal Estate after making the foregoing deductions.

In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal and publish and declare this to be my last Will and Testament in the presence of the witnesses named below, this twenty fourth day of March in the year of our Lord, One thousand eight hundred and Seventy.

                                                                                                                                                Thomas Washburn                          (seal)

Signed, sealed, published and declared by the said Thomas Washburn as and for his last will and testament in presence of us, who in his presence and in the presence of each other and at his request have hereunto subscribed our names as Witnesses.

In the first clause “a right to use was interlined before Execution.

                                                James Cole, Jr.

                Amos S. Fuller,    Eunice Washburn.

 

Presented for probate on the second Monday of May 1870 by Solomon L. Washburn and Jonathan T. Washburn, the Executors, with Cornelius B. Wood and Sidney Tucker, of Middleborough, as sureties. Letters Testamentary granted to Solomon L. Washburn and Jonathan T. Washburn, of Middleborough, on 9 May 1870.

 

Sidney Tucker, Thomas Dwelley, and Joseph T. Wood, all of Middleborough, were appointed to appraise the estate of Thomas Washburn, late of Middleborough, on 9 May 1870. His real estate was valued at $6490, and his personal estate was valued at $2923.08. Jonathan T. and Solomon L. Washburn gave their oath to the inventory on 4 June 1870.

 

To the Honorable the Judge of the Probate Court in and for the County of Plymouth:

                Respectfully represents Charity Washburn of Middleboro in said County that Thomas Washburn late of Middleboro in Said County of Plymouth, deceased, testate, whose estate is settled in this Court, died seized of certain lands in this Commonwealth; that she is his widow and entitled to dower in said lands; that her right is not disputed by the heirs; and that the names and residences of all parties now interested therein are as follows:

Solomon L. Washburn of Middleboro

William M. Washburn  “          “

Jonathan T. Washburn  “          “

Charity T. Atwood                              all children of deceased, that said deceased made certain provision for her in his last will which will has been duly proved and allowed in this Court within six months last passed and that she hereby waives the provision made for her by said will and gives notice that she will claim her dower in the lands of said deceased and her distributive share of his personal estate.

                Dated this twenty-second day of August  A. D. 1870.

                                                                                                                                                Charity Washburn

                                Filed August 26th 1870.

 

Charity Washburn petitioned that a homestead out of the estate of Thomas Washburn, late of Middleborough, may be set off and assigned to her on the second Monday of June, 1871. Joseph T. Wood, Andrew C. Wood, and Lewis Leonard, of Middleborough, were appointed to set off to her an estate valued at $800 in land and buildings.

 

Charity Washburn petitioned for her dower from the estate of Thomas Washburn, late of Middleborough, on the second Monday of June, 1871, and Joseph T. Wood, Andrew C. Wood, and Lewis Leonard, all of Middleborough, were appointed to set off her dower from the estate of her husband.

 

Charity T. Atwood, wife of Loranus Atwood, of Middleborough, petitioned for a division of all the real estate of Thomas Washburn, late of Middleborough, on the fourth Monday of May, 1873. Joseph T. Wood, Lewis Leonard, and Sylvanus Mendell, all of Middleborough, were appointed to divide the real estate of Thomas Washburn, late of Middleborough, into four equal parts and set off one part each to Charity T. Atwood, wife of Loranus Atwood, Solomon L. Washburn, and Jonathan T. Washburn, all of Middleborough, and William M. Washburn, of North Bridgewater, on 26 May 1873.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 106, p. 538, from FHL microfilm #0555647, Vol. 124, p. 596, Vol. 109, p. 366, Vol. 140, p. 47-48, Vol. 128, p. 32, Vol. 113, p. 59, and Vol. 113, p. 389.

 

 

Will of Thomas Washburn of Kennebunk, York County, Maine (1872) *

  Be it remembered, that I Thomas Washburn of Kennebunk in the County of York State of Maine, being now of sound and disposing mind and memory, do hereby make, publish and declare the following as and for my last will and testament – hereby revoking all other wills by me at any time heretofore made –

First my will is, that all my just debts, funeral charges, and Expenses of administration be paid by my Executrix herein after named –

Secondly – To my three children, Lilla O Washburn, Willie H Washburn and Frank A Washburn, I give and bequeath the sum of twenty five dollars each, to be paid them by my said Executrix –

Thirdly. All the rest, residue and remainder of my Estate, real, personal and mixed, I give bequeath and devise to my beloved wife, Susan A Washburn – To Have and to hold to her, her heirs and assigns forever in fee –

Lastly I do hereby constitute and appoint my said wife, Susan A Washburn, sole Executrix of this my last will and testament –

In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this second day of May in the Year of Our Lord one thousand eight hundred and seventy two

                                                                                                                                                Thomas Washburn

Signed, sealed, published and

declared by the above named

Thomas Washburn, to be his last

Will and testament in the

presence of us, who at his

request in his presence and

in the Presence of each other

have hereunto subscribed our

names as witnesses hereto

   W. A. McKey

   Sarah Hazeltine

   Ead E Bourne Jr

 

Presented for probate on 4 May 1872 by Susan A Washburn of Kennebunkport. Letters Testamentary were granted to Susan A. Washburn, of Kennebunkport, on 2 July 1872, with Leander G. Smith and Thomas L. Gilpatrick, both of Kennebunkport, as her sureties. George W. Wallingford, of Kennebunk, and Elijah Buzzell and Samuel Gilpatrick, of Kennebunkport, were appointed to appraise the estate of Thomas Washburn, late of Kennebunkport, on the first Tuesday of July 1872. His real estate was valued at $475, his goods and chattels at $767.50, and his rights and credits at $1200.00, and it was presented by Susan A Washburn, the Executrix on 23 Aug. 1872.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from York County Probate File #19658, from FHL microfilm #7315239.

 

 

Will of Underhill Washburn of New York City, New York (1859) *

In the name of God, Amen. I Underhill Washburn of the City County and State of New York being in good health of body, and of sound and disposing mind and memory and being desirous to settle my worldly affairs whilst I have strength and capacity do make and publish this my last Will and Testament hereby revoking and making void all former Wills by me at any time heretofore made. I give devise and bequeath all my Estate, Real and Personal of what nature or kind the same may and wheresoever the same may be situated at the time of my decease unto my well beloved Wife Sarah Ann Washburn her heirs, Executors, administrators and assigns forever – And I nominate constitute and appoint my said Wife Sarah Ann Washburn sole Executrix of this my last Will and Testament. In Witness Whereof, I the said Testator Underhill Washburn have to this my last Will and Testament hereunto set my hand and seal this Twenty fifth day of November One thousand eight hundred and fifty nine –

                                                                                                                                                Underhill Washburn                       (seal)

Signed, sealed, published and declared by the said Underhill Washburn as and for his last Will and Testament in the presence of us, who at his request in his presence and in the presence of each other have hereunto subscribed our names as witnesses—

H. H. Kirkham  Hoboken N.J.

Jabez Broadmeadow  .do.

 

On 1 Oct. 1866 the widow and next of kin of Underhill Washburn, late of the County of New York, petitioned for probate of the will. George H. Washburn son of Underhill Washburn deceased, of the City of New York, testified on 1 Oct. 1866 that the Will was written and signed by his father. William Reed of Hoboken, New Jersey, testified as a witness on behalf of the applicant that he was well acquainted with Allen H. Kirkham, formerly of Hoboken, and with Joseph Broadmeadow, of the same place, who is his father-in-law, and that he believes Kirkham was killed in battle in the late war, in July 1862, and that Jabez Broadmeadow he believes is still living in New Jersey, but does not know where, the will was approved for probate on 1 Oct. 1866.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from New York City Probate, Vol. 160, p. 156-159.

 

 

Will of Willard Washburn of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1864) *

Be it known that I Willard Washburn of Bridgewater in the County of Plymouth, State of Massachusetts, being of sound disposing mind and memory, do make and publish this my last Will and Testament.

First. I give and bequeath to my beloved wife Elvira Washburn, after paying all my just debts, funeral expenses, and costs of administration one third part, to each of my brothers Marshall Washburn and John B. Washburn one sixth part, and to my brothers Benjamin Washburn and Azel Washburn, and to my sister Harriet Keith wife of Hezekiah H. Keith each of them one sixth part of all my estate both real and personal wherever the same may be found.

Second. Believing that my brother Oliver Washburn of Singsing, New York, and Chloe Washburn my sister, and wife of Isaac Washburn of East Bridgewater, Massachusetts, are in very comfortable circumstances, I therefore make them no bequests.

Third. I order and appoint Elbridge Keith as Executor of this my last Will and Testament.

In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal, and publish and declare this to be my last Will and Testament in the presence of the witnesses named below this seventeenth day June in the year eighteen hundred and sixty four.

                                                                                                                                                Willard Washburn                           (seal)

Signed, sealed, published and declared by the said Willard Washburn as and for his last Will and Testament in presence of us, who in his presence, and in the presence of each other and at his request have hereunto subscribed our names as witnesses.

                                                                                                                Martin D. Holmes

                                                                                                                Hasadiah H. Keith

                                                                                                                Elbridge Keith

 

Presented for probate on the second Monday of June 1873 by Williams Latham, of Bridgewater, who petitioned for administration with will annexed, with Charles A. Latham and Eliab Latham, of East Bridgewater, as sureties. Letters of Administration with Will annexed were granted to Williams Latham on 9 June 1873.

 

To the Honorable the Judge of Probate Court in and for the County of Plymouth and to all whom it may concern.

Respectfully represents Elvira Washburn of Bridgewater in the County of Plymouth that she is the widow of Willard Washburn late of said Bridgewater deceased; that said Willard Washburn deceased made certain provisions for her the said Elvira Washburn, in his last Will and testament which said will has been duly proved and allowed in said Probate Court holden in and for the County of Plymouth aforesaid within six months now last past to wit, at Plymouth on the ninth day of June A.D. 1873, that she the said Elvira Washburn hereby waives the provisions so made for her in and by said will, and hereby gives notice that she will claim her estate in lieu of dower in the lands of said deceased, and her distributive share of his the said Willard Washburn’s personal estate;

        In witness whereof I the said Elvira Washburn have hereunto set my hand this twenty eighth day of October A.D. 1873.

Signed in presence of,                                                                        Elvira Washburn

Spencer Leonard

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 140, p. 582, from FHL microfilm #0556648, Vol. 120, p. 63, and Vol. 141, p. 60.

 

 

Will of William Washburn of Stafford, Tolland County, Connecticut (1810) *

        I William Washburn of Stafford in the County of Tolland and State of Connecticut being advanced in years and calling to mind the mortality of my body, but of sound and disposing mind and memory blessed be God therefor do make and ordain this my last Will and testament.  Firstly and principally I assign my soul into the hands of the benificent author of my being humbly hoping for a blessed immortality through the merits of a Saviour and my body I resign to the dust to be decently buried; And my worldly estate I dispose of as follows 1st I give and bequeath to my daughter Azubah Dean wife of Silas Dean eleven dollars to be paid to her by my Executor herein after named out of the avails of a note of hand of four hundred dollars signed by Isaac Cummings late of said Stafford decd and made payable to my heirs within one year after my decease and the decease of my wife Lydia in neat stock or in money in such manner as I in my last will and testament shall direct and dated the 28th day of June AD 1806.  The money to be paid her as soon as it can conveniently be collected after my decease.~  2ly I give and bequeath to my daughter Zilpha Adams wife of Solaman Adams Jun. one hundred dollars to be paid her by my Executor out of said note as soon as the same may be collected.~ 3ly I give & bequeath to my daughter Rebeckah Johnson wife of Nathaniel Johnson Ninety two dollars to be paid to her by my Executor out of said notes as soon as the same may be collected.~  4ly I give to my daughter Lois Cushman wife of John Cushman One hundred dollars to be paid her by my Executor out of said notes as aforesaid. ~  5ly I give to my daughter Sari Frizzle wife of Samuel Frizzle ninety seven dollars to be paid her out of said note as aforesaid.~ 6ly I give and bequeath to my son Solamon all the wearing apparel and all the farming tools and all other tools of which I shall die siezed and also one note against the said Isaac Cummings decd for the sum of five dollars fifty eight cents & three mills made payable to the Executor of my last Will and testament and dated Augt. 20 1808 all to be delivered him by my Executor within six months after my decease and the decease of my wife ~  7ly. I give and bequeath all the rest and residue of my estate consisting principally of indoor moveables to my five daughters, viz, Azubah Zilpha Rebekah Lois and Sarah to be equally divided between them after my decease and the decease of my sd wife ~

        And I do constitute and appoint my worthy friend Eliab Alden Esqr. of said Stafford sole Executor of this my last Will and testament, hereby revoking all former Wills by me made and declaring and confirming this and this only to be my last will and testament.  In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this 6th day of Augt. AD 1810

                                                                                                                                                William Washburn                          (seal)

Signed Sealed published and declared

by the Testator as his last Will & testament & in presence of us

who in his presence and at his request affixed our names as

witnesses thereto ~

Rhodolphus Ladd                                                                                                                Attest E. Stearns Clerk

Ralph R. Phelps

 

Presented for probate on 8 Feb. 1814 by Eliab Alden Esquire, the Executor therein named, who refused said trust, and Letter of Administration with the Will annexed was granted to Calvin Edson Esqr., of Stafford, with Nathaniel Johnson, of Stafford, as his surety, on 1 Mar. 1814.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Town of Stafford Register of Probate Records Vol. 8, p. 197-199, from FHL microfilm #0005745.

 

 

Will of William C. Washburn of Sing Sing Village, Westchester County, New York (1876) *

        I William C Washburn of the Village of Sing Sing Westchester County and State of New York mindful of the uncertainties of human life do make publish and declare this my last Will and Testament in manner following

First After the payment of my just debts and funeral expenses I give devise and bequeath to my wife Phebe Washburn all my estate both Real personal or mixed of every Kind and nature whatever of which I may die seized or possessed and all right title or interest I have or am entitled to therein

Second I hereby nominate and appoint my Father Elias H Washburn the Executor of this my last Will and testament and hereby authorize and empower him the said Elias H Washburn to compound compromise and settle any claim or demand which may be against or in favor of my said estate

In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this 20th day of January 1876

                                                                                                                                                William C Washburn                      (seal)

Signed published and declared by the said testator to be his last Will and Testament in the presence of us who have signed our names at his request as witnesses in his presence and in presence of each other

James E Mead  Sing Sing  N.Y.

H Allen Clark  Sing Sing  N.Y.

 

Phebe Washburn, the legatee, petitioned for probate of the will of William C. Washburn, late of the town of Ossining, on 5 Aug. 1878, and Dwight S. Herrick was appointed as Special Guardian for the minor heirs under the age of 14 years.

 

Proved by the witnesses, H Allen Clark and James C Mead, of the Town of Ossining, on 27 Aug. 1878.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Westchester County Probate, Wills Vol. 86, p. 13-18.

 

 

Will of William A. Washburn of Mannsville, Ellisburg, Jefferson County, New York (1891) *

I, William A Washburn of Mannsville Jeff Co New York being of sound mind and memory, do make, ordain, publish and declare this to be my last Will and Testament, that is to say;

                                                                                                                                First

After all my lawful debts are paid and discharged, I give, devise and bequeath All of my property of whatsoever name, nature or discription to be equally divided between my Wife Mary C Washburn, and my son J. Carl Washburn

Likewise I make constitute and appoint Jas. M. Thompson of Mannsville Jeff Co. N.Y. to be executor of this my last Will and Testament hereby revoking all former Wills by me made,

In Witness Whereof, I have hereunto subscribed my name and affixed my seal the twentieth day of February in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and Ninety one.

                                                                                                                                                William A. Washburn                     (seal)

The above instrument consisting of 1 sheet was at the date thereof subscribed by William A Washburn in the presence of us and each of us; he at the time of making such subscription acknowledged that he made the same, and declared the said instrument so subscribed by him to be his last Will and Testament. Whereupon we then and there, at his request and in his presence and the presence of each other subscribed our names as witnesses thereto

Jas. M. Thompson  residing at Mannsville   N.Y.

G. A Huggins        residing at Mannsville   N.Y.

 

Presented for probate on 30 Jan. 1892 by Mate B. Washburn of the town of Ellisburgh Jefferson County, one of the legatees, said petitioner being the widow of the testator, and John Carl Washburn only child of the deceased, a minor under 14 years of age who resides with his mother, said petitioner, and James M. Thompson of Ellisburgh, the sole Executor named in the will. Proved on 10 Feb. 1892 by the witnesses.
George H. Walker Esq. was appointed as Special Guardian for the above named minor.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Jefferson County Probate Wills Vol. 30, p. 193-195, from FHL microfilm #0893384.

 

 

Will of William Henry Washburn of Auburn, Androscoggin County, Maine (1895) *

                I, William Henry Washburn, of Auburn, in the county of Androscoggin and state of Maine, being in my own apprehension of sound mind, do judge it best to make, and accordingly do hereby make this my last will and testament.

                I give bequeath and devise to Rev. Henry Adams Neely, of Portland Maine, Bishop of the Protestant Episcopal Church in the United States of American in the diocese of Maine, and his successors in said office, a corporation sole, created by chapter 584 of the private and special laws of Maine of the year 1893, approved March 21, 1893, the certain lot of land, with the buildings thereon, situated on the Easterly side of Pleasant street in Auburn aforesaid, and being the same premises conveyed to me by Sumner Wood Jr. as will appear by his deed of warranty to me dated October 20, A.D. 1890, and recorded in said Androscoggin County Registry of Deeds, Book 138 Page 300, to which deed and the record thereof reference may be had for a more particular description of said lot of land, in trust for the following intents uses and purposes; that is to say, to hold the same in trust forever for the use and benefit of the Protestant Episcopal mission of the Church of the Heavenly Rest, located in said Auburn, for a Parish Hall, or church, or both, for a place of religious worship according to the laws, canons, rules, regulations and ritual of the Protestant Episcopal Church in the United States of America, and also for a rectory, if said lot is suitable for said rectory in addition to said Parish Hall, or church, or both, in the judgment of said Trustee.  But in case a Protestant Episcopal Parish shall at any time hereafter be organized in said Auburn in place of said Mission, according to the laws, rules, regulations, discipline and canons of the Protestant Episcopal Church in the United States of American, then and in that case, said lot of land shall be held for the use and benefit of said Parish for a Parish Hall or church, or both, to be used for religious worship according to the laws, rules, regulations, canons and ritual of said Protestant Episcopal Church, and also a rectory for use of the rector of said church, if said lot is suitable for said rectory in addition to said Parish Hall, or Church, or both, in the judgment of said Trustee, and if not suitable for all of said buildings, then and in that case it shall be used for a Parish Hall, or Church, or both, for a place of religious worship according to the laws, rules, regulations, canons and ritual of said Protestant Episcopal Church, but for no other purpose.

                I give bequeath and devise all the rest and residue of my estate, of which I may die seized and possessed, real and personal, including all policies of insurance upon my life, save what shall be necessary for the payment of my just debts, funeral charges and the expenses of administering upon my estate pursuant to this my will, to my beloved wife Sarah Josephine Washburn, her heirs and assigns forever.

                I hereby nominate constitute and appoint said Sarah Josephine Washburn to be executrix of this my said will, and I respectfully request the Judge of Probate before whom this my last will and testament is proved, approved and allowed to issue to her letters testamentary without requiring her to give a bond for the faithful discharge of the trust thereby imposed upon her, hereby revoking all former and other wills and testament by me at any time made, and I do declare this to be my last will and testament.

                In witness whereof I have hereto put my hand and seal this fourth day of January in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and ninety five

                                                                                                                                                William Henry Washburn             (seal)

                Signed, sealed, published and declared by the above named William Henry Washburn as and for his last will and testament, in the presence of us, who, at his request and in his presence, and in the presence of each other have hereto subscribed our names as witnesses thereto.

                                                                                                                                                E. L. Jordan

                                                                                                                                                Lizzie E. Goss

                                                                                                                                                J. Frederick Norman M.D.

 

Proved on the second Tuesday of July 1895. Letters Testamentary were granted to Sarah Josephine Washburn.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Androscoggin County Probate Records Vol. 9, p. 543-545, from FHL microfilm #1854678, and Letters Testamentary Vol. 2, p. 281.

 

 

Will of Zebulon Washburn of Kent, Putnam County, New York (1831) *

The last will and testament of Zebulon Washburn of the town of Kent in the County of Putnam & State of New York considering the uncertainty of this mortal life and being of sound and memory blessed be God for the same, I do make and publish this my last will and testament in manner and form foling that is to say firstly I order that all my lawful depts be paid and funeral expense be paid

Secondly, I give and bequeath to my youngest son Daniel Washburn, to him and his heirs forever my dwelling house and lands a joining the same Beginning at a stone wall on the west side of the road south of the home and north of the orchard, then west with said wall till it comes to the wall that runs north and south and west of said orchard, then south with said wall till it comes to the same wall that runs east and west then west with said wall till it comes to Edward Smiths land, then south or Southerly with Edward Smiths land to the road, then northly along said road to the place of beginning, this gave to Daniel Washburn and to his heirs for ever and the residue of my estate I order to be sold by my executors both real & personal and to be divided between my four children after my debts is paid as falows namely Samuel Washburn Zebulon Washburn Anna Baker Phebe Jewell two sons & two daughters. And I will and bequeath that my daughters have one half as much as my sons which said legises or sums of money I will and order to be paid to the respective legatees in one year after my decest and do hereby constitute and apoint Daniel Washburn and Edward Smith executors to this my last will and testament hereby revoking all former wills by me made in witness whareof I have hereunto set my hand seal Eleventh day of April in the year one thousand eight hundred and thirty one                                                                                                                                                                                                                          Zebulon Washburn                          (seal)

Signed sealed published and declared by the above named Zebulon Washburn to be his last will and testament in the presence of us who have hereunto subscribed our names as witnesses in the presence of the testator

                                                                                                                                                                                Hiram Smith

                                                                                                                                                                                Joseph N. Smith

                                                                                                                                                                                Clarissa Smith

 

In addition to my former will I make the following alteration to wit I give all my freehold and landed property to my son Daniel Washburn and to include all my real and personal property by he paying to my son Samuel Washburn one hundred dollars, and my son Zebulon Washburn twenty dollars, and to my daughter Anna Baker the wife of Levi Baker seventy dollars, and to my daughter Phebe Jewett the wife of Morris Jewet seventy dollars, the above willed property real and personal to which I have here annexed to Daniel Washburn and his heirs forever and the several dower rights which he is to pay shall be paid in one year after my decease. Given under my hand and seal this twelfth day of April in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and thirty three

                                                                                                                                                Zebulon Washburn                          (seal)

Signed sealed published and declared by the above named Zebulon Washburn to be his last will and testament in the presence of us who have hereunto subscribed our names as witnesses in the presence of the testator

                                                                                                                                                                                Alvin Chase          } of the town of

                                                                                                                                                                                                                } Kent in the

                                                                                                                                                                                Hiram Smith         } Co of Putnam

 

On 3 Feb. 1834 Edward Smith and Daniel Washburn, Executors of the last will & testament of Zebulon Washburn, late of Kent, deceased, testified that all the heirs and legal representatives of the deceased except Phebe Kelly, the wife of Charles Kelly, and Charles Washburn have been notified according to law, and petitioned to have the taking of the proofs adjourned to the 5th day of March next that they may be able to have Phebe Kelly and Charles Washburn notified.

The will was probated on 5 Mar. 1834, and proved by Hiram Smith, a witness to the will and to the codicil, Clarissa Smith, a witness to the will, and Alvin Chase, a witness to the codicil, and Edward Smith testified that he was also there and witnessed Hiram Smith, Joseph Smith, and Clarissa Smith sign as witnesses to the will.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Putnam County Probate, Vol. C, p. 77-84.

 

 

Will of Zebulon Washburn of Beekman, Dutchess County, New York (1862) *

I, Zebulon Washburn of the town of Beekman County of Dutchess & State of New York, do hereby make publish and declare this to be my last Will and Testament – First– I direct all my just debts & funeral expenses to be paid by Executrix hereafter named Second I give and bequeath to my daughter Susan L. Washburn One hundred dollars to her and her heirs forever Third I give & bequeath to my son George H Washburn One hundred dollars to him & his heirs forever Fourth I give & bequeath to my son Daniel Washburn One hundred dollars to him & his heirs forever Fifth I give and bequeath to my son William Washburn one hundred dollars to him & his heirs forever Sixth I give and bequeath to my daughter Anne A Washburn one hundred dollars to her and her heirs forever Seventh I give and bequeath to my son Samuel Washburn one hundred dollars to him and his heirs forever and I further direct that my executrix pay the above mentioned legacies to my daughter Susan and my son George W each within one year from my decease and I further direct that the above legacies to my son Samuel, David, William and my daughter Ann A now minor children be each paid by my said executrix as they severally arrive at the age of twenty one years I also give and bequeath the remainder and residue of all my property both real and personal after paying the legacies in the order above mentioned and made to my wife Syrena to her and her heirs forever and I hereby make constitute and appoint my wife Syrena Washburn sole Executor of this my last Will and Testament hereby revoking all former Wills by me made In witness whereof have hereunto set my hand and Seal this 13th day of December in the A.D. 1862

                                                                                                                                                             his

                                                                                                                                                Zebulon  X  Washburn

                                                                                                                                                             mark

The above instrument consisting of one sheet was at the date thereof Signed sealed published and declared by the said Zebulon Washburn as and for his last Will and Testament in presence of us who at his request and in his presence and in the presence of each other have subscribed our names as witnesses thereto

                                                                                                James C. Sweet   Dutchess County

                                                                                                Benj. H. Sisson     Dutchess County

 

Proved by James C. Sweet and Benjamin H. Sisson of the town of Beekman on 20 Aug. 1863, the will recorded on 12 Sept. 1863.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Dutchess County Probate, Vol. V, p. 434-436.

 

 

Will of Anthony Waterman of Halifax, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1769) *

In the Name of GOD, Amen,

The twentyeighth day of October, anno Domini one thousand, seven hundred and sixty nine. – I Anthony Waterman of Hallifax in the county of Plymouth and province of the Massachusetts Bay, in New-England yeoman, being of a perfect and disposing mind & memory, But calling to mind the mortality of my body, and knowing that it is appointed for all men once to die, do make and ordain this my Last will & testament, that is to say,

First of all, I give & recomend my soul into the hands of GOD who gave it and my body I recomend to the earth to be buried in a decent, christian burial at the discretion of my executor, nothing doubting but at the resurrection I shall receive the same again by the mighty power of GOD, – And with respect to the worldly estate with which God has blessed me in this Life, I give, demise, and dispose of the same in the following manner.—

Impr. I give and bequeath to my sons Anthony & Elisha Waterman all my real estate excepting what I shall hereafter in this will otherwise dispose off to be equally divided between them as to quantity & quality, as also all my farming tools, wearing apparel & armour. —

Item, I give to my three daughters Joanna Sturtevant, Sarah Washburn, & Phœbe Waterman a piece of meadow lying above the dam on the north side of Monponset meadow-brook (so called) included within the fence as it now stands viz, from the northeast corner of Capt. Josiah Sturtevant’s meadow to Eleazer Waterman’s Land, all to the west of said fence to be divided equally between them as to quantity & quality. Also I give to my three daughters aforesaid the whole of my indoors movables which I have not already or shall not hereafter in this will otherwise dispose off. —

Item. I give to my daughter Phœbe ten pounds, thirteen shillings & four pence out of such of my indoors movables as I have not or shall not hereafter otherwise dispose off. —

Item, I give and bequeath to my well beloved wife one third part of my real estate to improve during her widowhood, also a part of my dwelling house viz, my east front room & chamber over it, also a bedroom & buttery adjoining, likewise one third part of my kitchen, cellar, barn & corn house to use & improve during her widowhood. ~~ Item, I give to wife all the wool, flax & yarn, now in the house. Item, I give to my wife all my outdoors movables which I have already in this will disposed off. — Item, My will is that my wife shall receive in and pay out all my just debts after my decease. —

Item, That my two sons Anthony & Elisha shall equally between them afford my hond. mother a decent & honorable maintenance during her natural life. — also that they pay to my two grandchildren Paul & Eliphalet Sturtevant, four pounds a piece at the age of twenty one years if they shall arrive to it. Likewise that they provide my welbeloved wife with fire-wood at the door during her widowhood.

Item, My will is that my three daughters Joanna, Sarah & Phœbe do pay to my sons Anthony & Elisha one load of grass standing, out of aforesaid meadow yearly during the natural life of my hond. mother Lidia Waterman. ~~~

Likewise, I do hereby appoint my well beloved wife to be sole executrix of this my Last will & testament, and I do hereby revoke & disanul all and every other former wills, testaments, Legacies, or executors by me any way before named, willed or bequeathed, ratifying & confirming this & no other to be my Last will & testament.  In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal the day & year abovementioned. —

Signed, sealed & declared to be his Last will & testamt.

by the sd. Anthony Waterman in the presence of us. —                                               Anthony Waterman                         (seal)

Ephraim Briggs

Saml. Palmer

Jesse Sturtevant

 

Presented for probate on 5 Mar. 1770 by ___ Waterman, the Executrix, [her name not filled in], and proved by Samuel Palmer and Jesse Sturtevant, two of the witnesses.

 

The Inventory of the estate of Anthony Waterman, late of Hallifax, was appraised by Moses Inglee, Saml Palmer & Ignatius Loring on 21 Mar. 1770, and totaled £388.14.6½. The executrix gave her oath to the inventory on 17 May 1770.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 20, p. 348-349, from FHL microfilm #0550711.

 

 

Will of Hannah Waterman of Halifax, Plymouth County, Massachusetts Bay (1782) *

In the Name of God Amen. I Hannah Waterman of Halifax in the county of Plymouth, being weak in body and of a sound & perfect understanding & memory, do constitute this my last will & testament & desire it may be recieved by all as such. First I most humbly bequeath my soul to God, my maker, beseeching his most gracious acceptance of it, thro’ the merits of Jesus Christ Amen, blessed be God

    I Give my body to the earth from whence it was taken in full assurance of its resurrection from thence at the last day, as for my burial, I desire it may be decent at the discretion of my dear friends who I doubt not will manage it, with all requisite prudence, as to my worldly estate

    I Give unto my Son Elisha Waterman Twelve Shillings

    I Give to my two grand sons, James Waterman & Calvin Waterman, sons of my son Anthony deceased six shillings a piece

    I Give to my two Grandsons, Paul & Eliphalet Sturtevant, sons to my daughter Hannah Sturtevant deceased, six shillings a piece

    I Give all the rest of my Estate which is personal estate, to my three Daughters Joanna Sturtevant, Sarah Washburn & Pheba Tomson, equal to be divided between them; and furthermore, I do appoint William Sturtevant, my son in law, to be Executor of this my last will & testament. In Witness hereof I do Set my hand & Seal the twenty sixth day of September A D. 1782.

Witnesses                                                                                                                              Hannah Waterman          (seal)

    Saml S. Sturtevant

    Jesse Sturtevant

    Susanna Sturtevant

    Priscilla Sturtevant

 

Presented for probate on 1 Oct. 1798 by Zebadiah Tomson of Halifax, Gentleman, and proved by Samuel Stafford Sturtevant and Priscilla Sturtevant, two of the witnesses. Administration of the estate of Hannah Waterman, late of Halifax, widow, was granted to Zebadiah Tomson with will annexed on 1 Oct. 1798, William Sturtevant, the Executor named in the will, being deceased.

 

Saml Staffd Sturtevant, Gentleman, Josiah Tomson Esqr, & Adam Tomson, yeoman, all of Halifax, were appointed to appraise the estate of Hannah Waterman, late of Halifax, widow, on 1 Oct. 1798. The Inventory of the estate of Hannah Waterman, late of Halifax, widow, dated 3 Jan. 1799, totaled $95.69, no real estate listed. Zebadiah Tomson, the administrator of the estate, gave his oath to the inventory on 4 Feb. 1799.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 36, pp. 425-426, 495, from FHL microfilm #0550719.

 

 

Will of Jabez Waterman of Halifax, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1836) *

        In the name of God, Amen – I Jabez Waterman of Halifax in the County of Plymouth, and Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Yeoman, being of sound and perfect mind and memory, considering the uncertainty of this mortal life, and knowing it is appointed for all men once to die, do make and ordain this my last Will and Testament, that is to say, First of all I give and recommend my soul into the hands of God who gave it – and my body I recommend to the earth to be buried in a decent christian burial, at the discretion of my Executor, nothing doubting but at the resurrection I shall receive the same again by the mighty power of God.  And with respect to my worldly estate with which God has blessed me with in this life, I give, demise and dispose of the same in the manner following, that is to say, I give and bequeath unto my beloved wife Hannah Waterman, of personal estate all my household furniture, likewise my horse and chaise, also one hundred dollars in cash – I give her the above named articles free and clear for her to dispose of as she thinks best – Also my real estate and what remains of my personal estate I give her the improvement during her natural life – if the improvement is not sufficient for her support, to dispose of so much of my estate as shall be necessary for that purpose – and after her decease what remains of my estate, I give and bequeath it to Martin Waterman Holmes the son of Benjamin Holmes his heirs and assigns forever: And I do hereby appoint my beloved wife Hannah Waterman and Zadock Thomson to be Executors of this my last Will and Testament, and I do hereby revoke all former wills by me made ~~

                In Witness Whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal the twelfth day of August in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and thirty six.

                Signed, sealed, published and declared by the above named Jabez Waterman to be his last Will and Testament in presence of us as witnesses in presence of the testator.

                John Sturtevant                                                                                                   Jabez Waterman                              (seal)

                Joseph S. Waterman

                George Waterman

 

Presented for probate on the first Tuesday of Nov. 1836 by Hannah Waterman and Zadock Thomson, the Executors therein named, and proved by John Sturtevant and George Waterman, two of the subscribing witnesses. Letters Testamentary granted to Hannah Waterman and Zadock Thomson, the Executors.

 

Hannah Waterman and Zadock Thomson, of Halifax, were granted Administration with the Will annexed of the Estate of Jabez Waterman, late of Halifax, on 1 Nov. 1836, with John Sturtevant, of Halifax, and Samuel Thompson, of Middleborough, as sureties.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Jabez Waterman, late of Halifax, not dated, was appraised by Thomas Holmes, Stafford Sturtevant, and William Sears, his real estate totaled $2902, including his homestead farm and buildings valued at $2100, and his personal estate valued at $673.90. Hannah Waterman and Zadock Thompson, the Executors, gave their oath to the inventory on 1 Nov. 1836.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 78, pp. 449-451, 451-452, from FHL microfilm #0555264, and Vol. 1G, p. 15.

 

 

Will of Joanna Waterman of Halifax, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1832)

        Be it remembered that I Joanna Waterman of Halifax County of Plymouth State of Massachusetts Widow, woman do on this twenty first day of July in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and thirty two make and publish this my last Will and Testament in manner following viz:

In the first place I give and bequeath to my daughter Rebecca the wife of Daniel Weston and to her heirs after her, one fourth part of my Estate both real and personal, after my just debts and expenses and what legacies I may hereafter make to Sally Shaw are paid, – I also give and bequeath to Abigail, Eliza Ann, Juliet and Mercy Freeman the daughters of my daughter Mercy, and to their heirs fifty dollars in addition to one fourth part of all my Estate, both real and personal after my debts Expenses and legacies are paid as above named, And to priscilla the wife of Josiah Marshall and to her heirs I give one fourth part of all my Estate after my debts, Expenses and legacies are paid as above named. – Likewise to Joanna Thomson the wife of Benjamin W. Pratt, I give one fourth part of all my Estate excepting fifty dollars which I have in the second Instance given to the heirs of my daughter Mercy, after my debts, Expenses and legacies as above named are paid, And lastly I give and bequeath to Sally Shaw for her faithful services One hundred dollars, and so long as she remain unmarried the use of the East front Chamber in the house I now live in, with what use she may want to make of the cellar, oven, and well for her own convenience, and I do hereby appoint Bradford Harlow the sole Executor of this my last will and Testament, signed sealed and published by the said Joanna Waterman declaring this to be her last Will and Testament in the presence of us who at her request were called as witnesses to the same and in her presence did hereunto subscribe our names.

Bradford Harlow,                                                                                                                Joanna Waterman                           (seal)

Robert Inglee,

Samuel S. Inglee,

 

Probated on 5 Jan. 1833, and proved by Bradford Harlow and Robert Inglee, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration granted to Bradford Harlow of Middleborough, yeoman.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 74, p. 517-518, from FHL microfilm #0555262.

 

 

Will of John Waterman of Plympton, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1713) *

In The Name of God Amen. I John Waterman of The Town of Plympton in the County of Plymouth in New England Yeoman being of a Sound & disposing mind & memory & desireous to set my house in Order do make & Ordain this my Last Will & Testament as followeth viz I bequeath my Immortal Soul to God that Gave it and my body to the Earth to be decently buried According to the discretion of my Executrix herein below named – hoping for a Glorious Resurrection to Life again Thro Jesus Christ who is the resurrection & the Life. And as to what Temporal Estate it hath pleased God to bless me withall I dispose of the Same as followeth. Imprs. I Give & Bequeath to my Son Samuel Waterman his heirs & Assignes forever my half share of Upland In the Majors Purchase. Item I Give & Bequeath unto my Son John Waterman his heirs & Assignes for ever all that my Land which Lyeth between Monponsett meadows & the Road that Leadeth from Monponsett to Winnatuxet. Item I Give & bequeath unto my Son Robert Waterman his heirs & Assignes for ever all that Lot of Land whereon I now dwell which did formerly belong unto Major William Bradford. Item I Give & Bequeath unto my Two Sons—Robert & John Waterman their heirs & Assignes for ever all the remainder or residue of my Lands in the Township of Plympton Aforesd. both Upland meadows & Cedar swamps or Other Swamps to be Equally divided between them, Together with all my right title & Interest in the Undivided Lands in the Township of Plympton or Plymouth—

Item. I Give & bequeath Unto my three Sons Samuel Robert & John all my wearing-Cloaths to be Equally divided among them. Item I Give & bequeath to my well beloved & dear wife Anna Waterman the Use & Improvement of my now dwelling house during her Widdowhood, And after her marriage or decease the Said dwelling house shall belong to my Sd. Son Robert Waterman. Item I Give & bequeath to my aforesd. wife (funeral Charges being first paid) all my moveables not Above disposed of, even my whole moveable Estate during her widdowhood; & if my sd. wife Shall Se Cause to marry then my Sd. Moveable Estate to be divided in the Manner following viz. Two Thirds of the Same to be Distributed to my Children & Grandchildren below mentioned as followeth viz. One fourth part of sd. Two thirds unto my daughter Anna Ransome, And One fourth part thereof to my daughter Lydia Shaw, And One fourth part thereof to be equally divided among the Children of my daughter Elisabeth Tilson decd., and the Other fourth part unto my Grand Daughter Mary Waterman the daughter of my Son Samuel Waterman, & the Other Third part of Sd. Moveable Estate I Give to my said wife during her natural Life, And at her decease what is Left thereof Shall be divided among the Last mentioned Children & Grand Children in the manner above expressed About the Other Two thirds but if She marry not then at her decease the whole of my sd. Moveable Estate Shall be divided in proportion as is before Expressed. And in Case my Sd. Grandaughter Mary Waterman shall dye without Issue before the time of Sd. division then her part of Sd. moveable estate shall belong unto my Two Aforesd. daughters Anna & Lydia & the Children of my daughter Elisabeth deceased in proportion as is before Expressed. Item my Will is that my Son Robert Waterman Shall keep Two Cows for his mother both Winter & Summer & Till or Improve Two Acres of Land for her Yearly by Planting or Sowing as She Shall Se Cause & provide her necessary & Sutable fire wood at her door & go to Mill for her as She Shall have Ocation & all this during the time of her Widdowhood.—

Item I Give & bequeath to my Said Son Robert Waterman all debts due to my Estate he paying all my Just debts to all persons Whatsoever—

Item. I do by these Presents Constitute ordain & Appoint my True & well beloved wife Anna Waterman Sole Executrix of this my Last Will & Testament to Administer upon My estate & to Se that my body be decently buried, And Out of my Estate to defray the Charges of the Same. And do desire request & Impower my kinsmen John Sturtevant & Ephraim Little of Plymouth to Se the performance of this my Last Will & the Settlement of my Estate and to be helpfull to my Sd. Wife & Children in all ye aforesd. divisions – According to the true Intent & meaning of this my Will. And I do by these Presents – revoak  disanul & make Void all former Wills & Testaments by me heretofore made ratifying Confirming & allowing this & no Other as my Last Will & Testament, And –

In Witness hereof have hereunto Set my hand & Seal this Twenty fourth day of March Anno Dom One Thousd. Seven hundred & Twelve. 1712/13.

                                                                                                                                                John Waterman                (seal)

Signed Sealed & declared to be his Last Will & Testament. In prsence of us ~~

Charles Church, Samuel Harlow Ephraim Little Junr.

 

Probated on 19 Dec. 1718, and proved by Ephraim Little, Capt. Charles Church, and Samuel Harlow, the witnesses.

Administration of his estate granted to Anna Waterman, his relict Widdow Sole Executrix therein named.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 4, p. 151-152, from FHL microfilm #0550510.

 

 

Will of John Waterman of Halifax, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1748) *

In the Name of God Amen I John Waterman of Hallifax in the County of Plymouth, in New England yeoman being of Perfect mind & Memory Do make on ordain this to be my Last will & Testament.

First & Principally I Resign my Soul into the Mercifull hands of almity God hoping through the merrets of Crist for a Blessed Resurrection to Eternal Life My body I Commit to the Earth to be Decently buried According to the Decresion of My Execrs – And as to my worldly I dispose of the Same in the following Manner

Impremus I give & bequeth to my beloved Wife Lidia the Improvement of the Easterly End of My Dwelling house and of half the orchard and the use of two Acres of Land yearly and To Improve what She Shall have occation for of the moveables During her natural Life and I hereby order my Son Anthony To Improve & Manage the Two acres abovesaid for her as She Shall think fit and also To Provide her with Suffician fier wood Ready Cutt at the Door and To Keep a Cow for her and a Small bear if there be occation and to go To mill for her and Carry her To meeting & Support her in in Sikness an health

Item I Give all my wearing Apperal To be Equally divided among my five Sons

Item I Give To my Son Joseph My Ceder Swamp that Lyes on the north East Side of the heering River in the Majors Purchas To him his heirs or assignes And also Sixty pounds old Tenour or Equivalent in the money that shall be passing at my Deceas he having already Recd. in Part of his Portion Twenty two pounds old Tenour –

Item I Give To my Son Perez Waterman Twenty shillings old Tenour he having Already had from me Two hundred Pounds old Tenour and Also half an acre of Land. –

Item I Give To My Son John all my Lands & medows below Lemuel Sturtevants where he now Lives to him his heirs and Assigns and I hereby order him To Pay the Sixty pound aforesaid To his Brother Joseph

Item I Give To my Son Anthony & Eleazer all my home Stead Lands the Dividing Line between them is Run thus begining at a Stone Set in the ground by Leml. Sturtevants Land from thence on the Range of sd. Sturtevants Land North Twenty three Degres westerly fifty Six Pole to a Long Stone Set in the ground in sd. Range from thence the Devideing Line Runs East two Degrees and about minnetes[?] Southerly to a Stake Set in the Range of the Land which was Lately Lieut. Cushings which Stake Stands Twelve Pole north Sixty one Degrees west from the maple Tree that is the Lower Corner of the Land Lately belonging to sd Cushing all that Part of sd homestead which Lyeth on the northerly Side of Said Deviding Line together with the buldings thereon to belong his heirs or Assigns

                                                                                And all that Part that Lyes on The Southerly Side of sd. Deviding Line to belong To Eleazer his heir & Assigns Also give To my sd Sons Anthony & Eleazer my Interst in Menponset Meddow and my Right on hemlok Island Joyning to the herring River which Lies in Partnership with My brother Robert, & my Lot of Ceder Swamp Lying in the Swamp Called the neck Swamp To them their heirs and assigns and I also give give them my Team Tackling and I order Anthony To Pay all my Just Debts & funeral Expences as also To Receve what is Due to me and apply it to that use and Likewise To Pay his Sisters the Legecies hereafter Mentioned if the Personal Estate be not Sufficient

Item I Give To my Two Daughter Sarah & Lidia All My Movable Estate after My wifes Deceas Exepting what is before Disposed of and whereas Each of my Daughters have Alreadey Recd from me Forty pounds a Peice in Part of their Portion – if the Personal Effects after my wifes Death Should not hold out so that Each of them Should have Seventy pounds old Tenour including what they have Receved in my Life Time then my Son Anthony to make up the Defecincy To them

Lastly I Constitute and appoint my wife Lydia & my Son Antony Executors of this my Last will & Testament –

In witness where of I the Said John Waterman have hereunto Set my hand and Seal this 21st. Day of March Anno Domini 1748

Signd Sealed & Declared to be his Last

will & Testament in Presenc of                                                                                        John Waterman                (seal)

Jno Cotton

Moses Cushman

Ignatous Cushing Jur

 

Presented for probate on 3 Aug. 1761 by Lidia Waterman and Anthony Waterman, the Executors therein named, and proved by John Cotton and Moses Cushman, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Lidia Waterman and Anthony Waterman, the Executors, with Moses Cushman of Hallifax and Abial Leach of Middleborough as sureties.

 

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 16, p. 182-184, from FHL microfilm #0551543.

 

 

Will of John Waterman of Halifax, Plymouth County, Massachusetts Bay (1778) *

In the name of God Amen – The Sixth day of February Anno Domini one thousand Seven hundred & Seventy Eight, I John Waterman of Halifax in the County of Plymouth & State of the Massachusetts Bay in New England, Gentleman, being of a perfect & disposing mind & memory, but calling to mind the mortality of my body, and knowing that it is appointed for all men once to die, do make & ordain this my Last will & testament; that is to say, first of all, I Give & recommend my Soul into the hands of God that gave it, and my body I recommend to the Earth, to be buried in a decent Christian burial at the discretion of my Executor, nothing doubting but at the Resurrection, I shall recieve the same again by the mighty power of God, and with respect to the worldly Estate with which God has blessed me in this Life, I Give, demise & dispose of the same in the following manner ~

Imprimis – I Give & bequeath to my beloved Sons John Waterman & William Waterman, besides what I have already given by Deeds, all that Lot of Swamp Land which I formerly had of Isaac King, adjoining to the estate of Seth Bryant Late of Halifax deceased & Edward Sears, also adjoining to the Land of Gideon Soule & William Perrey containing about seventeen or Eighteen acres

Item – I Give & bequeath to my Son Isaac Waterman, all my Homestead whereon I now Live, and meadow adjoining – as also all my moveables Estate, after my just debts, funeral Charges & Legacies, which I shall hereafter in this will order, are paid by my Executor

Item – I Give & bequeath to my two Daughters, Betty Waterman & Fear Waterman also all the Land, meadow & Cedar Swamp that came to me by their mother, as also, all my Indoor moveables except what I shall hereafter dispose of in this will, and a privilege of Living in my House as Long as they remain unmarried

Item – I Give to my three Sons aforesaid, all my wearing apparell & Armour to be equally divided among them

Item – I Give to my Son Isaac, my Pew on the Lower floor in the meeting house, excepting a privilege which I Give to my two Daughters of sitting in it.~

Item – I Give to my two Sons John & William, all my Right in a Pew in the meeting house Gallery – and I do order my Son Isaac Waterman to provide Suitable Grave Stones for me & my wife, and I do reserve to my beloved wife, one third part of the Improvement of my whole Estate during her widowhood—Likewise, I do hereby appoint my Son Isaac Waterman to be Sole Executor of this my Last will & testament, and I do hereby Revoke and disanul all & every other former wills, testaments, Legacies or Executors, by me any way before named, willed or bequeathed, Ratifying & confirming this and no Other to be my Last will & testament — In witness whereof I have hereunto Set my hand & Seal the day & year above mentioned. ~

Signed, Sealed & declared, to be his Last

will & testament by the said John Water-

man, in presence of us ~                                                                                                     John Waterman                                (seal)

                Ephraim Briggs

                Jesse Sturtevant

                Jabez Waterman

 

Presented for probate on 6 April 1791 by Isaac Waterman, the Executor therein named, and proved by Jabez Waterman, and on the seventh day of February Last, by Ephraim Briggs, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Isaac Waterman, the before named Executor.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 31, p. 346-348, from FHL microfilm #0550716.

 

 

Will and Codicil of Robert Waterman of Halifax, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1744) *

In the Name of God Amen I Robert Waterman of Hallifax in the County of plimouth in New England yeoman being Weake of Body But of Sound & Disposing mind & memory Do make & ordain this to be My Last Will & Testament first & principly I resign my Soul into the marcyful hands of almyty god Hoping thro the marits of Christ for a blessed Resurraction to eternal Life my Body I Commit to the Earth to be Decently buryed according to the Discretion of my Execrs hereafter named and as for the Worldly goods Which I have a Right in & unto after My Just Debts & funeral Expences are payed & Discharged I give & Bequeath the Same in the following mannor & form —

Imprimas I give & Bequeath to my Beloved Wife abigaill all The Household Stuff That She Brot With her and Eighty pounds old Tener out of my Estate To be at her Dispose and, also the Improvement of the Whole of the West End of My house and What She may Need further out of my Estate for her Comfortable Subsistance & Support both in Sikness & in helth While She Continues my Widow —

Item I give To My Son Isaac Twenty two pound pounds old Tener out of My Estate Which Together With What I have here To fore given him in Lands Monys &c is his full Share of My Estate

Item I give to my Daughters Rebakah & Mary fifty pounds old Tener apice Ninety pounds of it to be paid by my Sons Robert & Samuel & Ten pounds by my Son Josiah —

Item I give to my Son Thomas five Shillings old Tener and hereby Confirm What I have Given him & his hairs by Deed — —

Item I give to my Son Josiah five Shillings old Tenor and Confirm To him What I have given him by Deed and hereby order him to pay five pounds old Tener apiece To Each of his Sisters — —

Item I give to my Son Robert a Case of Drawers on Round Table and a framed Chast With Drawers — —

Item I give to my Son Robert & Samuel to them thair heairs & assigns all my Meadow in Winnetuxet Meadow So Called in plimton Which I Latly purchased of Josiah Tinkham & Jno Smith as appears By their Deeds under their hands & Seals To be Equely Divided Between them — —

Item I give to mary Ransom the Sume of Twenty pounds old Tenor to be payd her By My Executrs ~~~

Item I give to my Sons Robert & Samuel all the Remainder of my Estate both Real & personal that is not already Disposid of to be Equally Divided Between them thay Taking Care of their Mother & making Suitable provision for her & paying ye Lagacyes. Lastly I nominate & appoint my Sons Robert & Samuel to be Execrs of this my Last Will & Testament

Witness Whereof I ye Sd Robart Waterman have hereunto Set My hand & Seal this first Day of February anno RRs Georgi j 2di Decimo octavo Annog Domini one thousand Seven hundred & fourty four — Signed Sealed & Declared

to be his Last Will & Testament

In presence of —                                                 N.B. it is to be understood that tho my Wife is

Jno Cotton                                                             to have the Improvement of the Whole West

Jona. Seares                                                           End of my house if She has Pecasion for it yet

         her                                                                  I Do not think it proper that She Should bring

Mary + Fuller junr                                                                       another Family into it — —

        mark                                                                                                                                Robert Waterman            (seal)

 

A Codicil

Know all Men by these presents that Whereas I Robert Waterman of Hallifax aforesd have made & Declared my Last will & Testement in Writing bearing Date Feby 1 + 1744 I the Sd Robert Waterman do by these Codicil ratify & Confirm my Said Last Will & Testament With these additions —

1  I hereby order my Sons Robert & Samuel to pay the Legecy above Which was assigned to my Son Josiah to pay & that he be Discharged from it — — —

2  I having paid Since the Signing of ye above Will the Sums following viz: twenty pounds old Tenor to mary Ransom (now Mary Barrows) twenty one Pounds Old Tener To My Daughter Mary and forty five pounds old Tenor To My Son Isaac as by their Receipts under thair hands With Design to Discharge the abovesd Legacyes in My Life Time I here by order the Sd Sum of 21 £ to be deducted out of my Daughter marys portion and that the other Sums paid to mary Barrow & my Son Isaac Shall be in full Satisfaction of What is given Them aforesd Save that I now give to my —

Son Isaac Twenty Shillings old Tenor — — —

3  Whereas my Wife abigail has bequeathed to her 80 £ old Tenor in my Will aforesd These are to Signify that She has aLready received sd Sum in full of Sd Legacy and also Some Silver Spoons & a Golden Nacklace Which I hereby Confirm to hir also I give her all the yarn that is Now Spun in the House and all the Cloth that is not made up Except So much as is Sufficiant for a mans Coat and also Lawful Interest From the Time of our Marriage for What She brot with her and also the use of ye Case of Drawers round Table & Chest of Drawers before given to my Son Robert While She Continues my Widow and my Will & Meaning is that this Codicil be adjudged to be part of my Last Will and that the things therein mentioned be as fully & faithfully performed in Every Respect as if the Same Were declared & Set down in my Last Will as Witness my hand ye 12th of Janury 1749

Signed Sealed & Declared                                                                                                 Robert Waterman            (seal)

in ye presents of

Jno Cotton

Jno Watrman

       her

mary + Fuller junr.

      mark

 

The Will and Codicil presented for probate by the executors on 14 Feb. 1749, the Will proved by Mr. John Cotton Jona Sears & Mary Fuller Junr., and the Codicil proved by the said Mr. Cotton, John Waterman, and the said Mary Fuller.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 12, p. 60-61, from FHL microfilm #0551539.

 

 

Will of Thomas Waterman of Halifax, Plymouth County, Massachusetts Bay (1784) *

In the name of God Amen—I Thomas Waterman of Halifax in the County of Plymouth, yeoman, being infirm in body, but of a sound & disposing mind and memory, and being sensible of the uncertainty of my Life, and desirous to set my house in order before I Go hence, do make and declare this to be my Last will and testament, and First I Return my soul to God the Gave it whenever he shall please to call for it, and my body I Recommend to the Earth to be decently buried by the Executors hereafter mentioned, hoping for a Glorious resurrection to Life eternal, through the merits of Christ my Redeemer, and touching the temporal estate which God hath blessed me within this Life, my just debts and funeral Charges being first paid by my Executors hereafter named, I Give, Devise and dispose of in the following manner—viz~—

Imprimis—I Give bequeath unto my Son Thomas Waterman his heirs & assigns, all the Real estate that I have Lying in Plymton in the County aforesaid, also two acres of Cedar Swamp that I bought of Samuel Waterman Lying in Middleborough

Item—I Give and bequeqth unto my son Freeman Waterman his heirs and assigns, a note that the said Freeman Gve me Dated July.14.1784 the sum of £219.6.8~~

Item—I Give and bequeath unto the Children of my Daughter Rebecca Heferds deceased Thirty pounds to be equally divided between them and to be paid to them as they come of age by my two sons Thomas and Freeman equally betwixt them

Item—I Give and bequeath unto my Daughter mercy Jossling Thirty pounds to be paid by my two Sons Thomas & Freeman equally betwixt them—

Item—I Give and bequeath unto my Grandson Robert Waterman Six shillings to be paid him by my two sons Thomas & Freeman equally betwixt them

Item—I Give and bequeath unto my two Sons Thomas & Freeman all my Personal Estate that I have not before disposed of to be equally divided betwixt them—

Lastly—I do appoint my two sons Thomas Waterman & Freeman Waterman to be my Sole Executors ofg this my Last will & testament—in witness whereof I the said Thomas Waterman have hereunto set my hand and seal this sixteenth day of July 1784~

Signed, Sealed and declared to be his Last

will & testament in presence of                                                                                        Thomas Waterman                          (seal)

                Ebenr. Tomson

                Ebenr. Tomson 3d

                Eunice Tomson

 

Presented for probate on 5 Oct. 1789 by Thomas Waterman and Freeman Waterman, the executors therein named, and proved by Ebenezer Tomson esqr & Ebenezer Tomson ye 3d two of the witnesses thereto subscribed.

The Bond of Thomas Waterman of Plymton, yeoman, and Freeman Waterman of Halifax, yeoman, was dated 5 Oct. 1789, with Ebenezer Tomson esqr & Jacob Tomson yeoman, both of Halifax, as sureties.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 31, p. 78-79, from FHL microfilm #0550716.

 

 

Will of Thomas Waterman of Plympton, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1802) *

In the Name of God Amen. – I Thomas Waterman of Plymton in the County of Plymouth & Commonwealth of Massachusetts, yeoman, being weak in body but of perfect & disposing mind & memory, thanks be given to God therefor, calling unto mind the mortality of my body and knowing that it is appointed for all men once to die, do make and ordain this my last will & testament & desire it may be recieved by all as such, that is to say, principally & first of all, I give and recommend my soul into the hands of God who gave it, and my body, I recomend to the earth, to be buried in decent Christian burial, at the discretion of my Executor, hereafter named, nothing doubting but at the general resurrection, I shall recieve the same again, by the mighty power of God, and as touching such worldly estate wherewith it hath pleased God to bless me in this life, I give demise & dispose of the same in the following manner & form –vizt –

Imprimis.– I Give & bequeath to my well beloved wife Priscilla Waterman, the use & improvement of all my real estate during her natural life; I also give to my wife Priscilla Waterman, and to her heirs & assigns forever, a certain piece of cedar swamp, lying & being in the Town of Middleborough in sd County of Plymouth containing about two acres, be the same, more or less, together with all the rest & residue of all my personal estate, after payment of all my just debts & funeral charges

Item.– I Give & bequeath to my brother in law Thomas Perkins of Halifax in ye. County of Plymouth, A certain piece of fresh meadow lying in Plymton on the northerly side of Winnatuxet River, and is that meadow which formerly belonged to the Revd. Ezra Sampson late of Plymton, to have & to hold, to him the sd. Thomas Perkins, & to his heirs & assigns forever.~

Item.– I Give & bequeath to my brother, Freeman Waterman of Halifax & my kinsman Bethuel Barnes, son to Lemuel Barnes of Plymton, & to their heirs & assigns forever, all the rest & residue of all my real estate not before disposed of in this my last will & testament, to be equally divided between them, after the decease of my wife.–

Lastly.– I do constitute, make & ordain my brother in law Bennett Perkins, my sole Executor of this my last Will & testament, & do hereby utterly disallow, revoke & disannul all & every other former will, testament, legacies, bequeaths & Executors by me in any way before named, willed & bequeathed, Ratifying & confirming this, and no other, to be my last Will & testament. – In Witness whereof, I have hereunto set my hand & seal this twenty fifth day of August in the year of our Lord, one thousand, eight hundred and two—1802 ~

Signed, Sealed, Pronounced & de-

clared by the said Thomas Water-                                                                                    Thomas Waterman                          (seal)

man, as his last Will & testament

in the presence us the subscribers. ~

                Elijah Bisbe junr

                Beza Bisbe

                Fanny Sampson

 

 

Presented for probate on 7 Feb. 1803 by Bennett Perkins, ye Executor therein named, and proved by Elijah Bisbe junr. Esqr. and Beza Bisbe, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Bennett Perkins, the before named Executor.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 38, p. 249-250, from FHL microfilm #0550720.

 

 

Will of Pelatiah West of Duxbury, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1732) *

Know all Men by these presents That I Paletiah West of Duxborough in the County of Plimouth in the Province of the Massachussetts bay in NewEngland Husbandman being undr. Some decay of body by Reason of the near approch of old age: but of perfect mind & Memory thanks be Given to almighty God, and by the frequent admonitions of my Frailty & mortality by the Dissolution of many Others being put in mind that it is appointed for all men Once to dye doe therefore upon deliberate & Serious Consideration make and Ordain these presents to be My Last Will and Testament in manner & form following to be & Remain firm & inviolable forever

Imprs. I Recommend my Soul into the Hands of Almighty God the Father of Spiritts who Gave it and my Body I Recomend to the Earth to be decently interred in Christain manner at the Discretion of my Execr. and Execrx, hereafter named &in Hopes of abetter Resurrection thro’ my Lord & Saviour who is the Resurrection and the Life, and that thro’ the Merritts death & Passion of the Lord Jesus Christ I shall Obtain Everlasting life, and as Touching all Such Worldly & Temporally Estate wherewith it hath pleased God to Bless me in this life I Give Demise & Dispose thereof in the following manner & form

Viz First I Will That my Just Debts and Funerall charges be paid and Discharged charged within convenient time after my decease –

Item, I give and Bequeath unto my Dear & Loving Wife Elizabeth One third part of all my moveable Estate within doors, and the use & Improvement of One half of my Dwelling House during the whole term of her naturall life and the abovesd. third part of the abovesaid moveable Estate to be her’s forever

Item, I Give to my above said wife Elizabeth One third part of the use & Improvement of all my lands and Meadows during the whole time of her Naturall life, and one third part of my Personall Estate to be her own forever my Debts first being Paid—

Item I Give to my Brother Samuell West of Lebanon in the County of Conneticutt all my wearing cloaths or apparrell if he shall be living after my decease

Item I Give and Bequeath unto my Kindsman Benjamin (Sometimes called Benjamin Southworth Junr. of Duxborough) who is the son of My sister Abigail Cole the wife of Nathaniel Cole of sd. Duxboro’, all the Rest and Residue of my whole Estate both real and personall either in Housing lands or any other Species Whatsoever it is or may be found togather also with all that is abovesd in this My Will Given to my abovesaid Wife Elizabeth to be hers during her life after her decease I Give it with all the above mentd. residue of my whole Estate to my abovesd. Kindsman Benjamin To Him His Heirs and assigns forever—

Finally I do by these presents Nominate Constitute & appoint My Well Beloved wife Elizabeth and abovesd. Kindsman Benjamin to be Execrx. & Execr. of this my last Will & Testamt; and I do hereby utterly disallow revoke Disanull & make Voide all & every other & former Wills & Testaments by me heretofore made whether Verball or Written, Ratifying & Confirming this & no other to be my last Will & Testamt. I Witness whereof I have hereunto sett my hand & Seal the Thirty first day of January in the year of our Lord God One Thousand Seven Hundred & thirty one or thirty two

Signed Sealed pronounced & Declared                                                                           Pelatiah West                                    (seal)

by the abovesd. Pelatiah West to be his

last Will and Testament In presence of

Phillip Delano

Joseph Weston

Ezra Arnold

 

Presented for probate on 2 May 1757 by the abovenamed Benjamin Execr. for probate the Execrx. abovenamed being dead, and proved by Joseph Weston and Ezra Arnold, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Benjamin Southworth Junr. of Duxboro, as Sole Executor, on 2 May 1757.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Mr. Pallatiah West late of Duxborough was appraised on 13 May 1759 by Briggs Alden, Nathl. Simmons and Elnathan Weston, and totaled £266.18.2, including his homestead farm valued at £200. Benja. Southworth, the Administrator on the Estate, gave his oath to the inventory on 9 July 1759.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 14, p. 330-332, from FHL microfilm #0551542, and Vol. 15, p. 254.

 

 

Will of Peter West of Plympton, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1717) *

In The name of God Amen the Twenty fifth of July 1717. I Peter West of Plympton being through the Goodness of God in Reasonable Health of body and perfect in mind and memory & understanding yet Calling to mind the Mortality of my body & knowing that it is appointed for all men Once to dye do make and ordain this my last Will and Testament. Principally and first of all I give and Reccomend my Soul into the hands of God that gave it, and my body I Reccomend to the Earth to be buried in Decent Christian burial at the discretion of my Executors nothing doubting but at the Generall Resurrection I shall Recieve the same again by the mighty power of God; and as Touching such worldly estate wherewith it hath pleased God to Bless me in this life I give and demise and dispose of the Same in manner and form following.

Imprimis. I give and bequeath to my true and well beloved wife Patience all my moveable estate with all my Right & Interest in Cedar Swamp wheresoever all during the time of life, and after my wifes decease my estate to be disposed of as in the following manner.

Item. I give to my daughter Mary Thirty Shillings. Item. I give to my daughter Margery Thirty Shillings. Item. I give to my daughter Esther fourty Shillings. Item I give to my daughter Rebeckah fourty Shillings. Item. I give to my daughter Ruth fourty Shillings & One bed. Item. I give to my Grandaughter Amy Curtice fourty Shillings and the remainder of my estate I give be it of what sort or Specie someever Equally to my two Sons Elisha & Samuel West’s whome I Make and Ordain my Sole executors of this my last Will & Testament.

And I do hereby Utterly disallow Revoak and disanull all & every other former Wills Testaments by me any ways before named Confirming this and no Other to be my last Will and Testament. In Witness whereof I have hereunto Set my hand and Seal the day and year abovewritten.

Signed Sealed Published pronounced and declared by the sd. Peter West his Last Will & Testament in the pressence of us the Subscribers  The Twenty fifth of July 1717 ~

Samuel West. The mark of m Martha West                                                                   The mark ↓ of

The marke of x Thankfull Dellano ~                                                                                     Peter     West                                 (seal)

 

Probated on 17 Mar. 1720/21, and proved by Samuel West, Martha West and Thankfull Delleno, all of Duxborough. Letters of Administration were granted to Elisha West and Samuel West, Sons of the sd deceased and executors in the same will.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Peter West, late of Plympton, was appraised on 11 May 1721 by Isaac Cushman Junr., Saml. Bryant, and Richard Everson, and totaled £97.13.6, with debts due from the estate totaling £64.14.8. Elisha West and Samuel West, sons of Peter West, late of Plympton, and Executors named in his Will, gave their oath to the inventory on 13 May 1721.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 4, p. 278-280, from FHL microfilm #0550510.

 

 

Will of Rev. Thomas West of Rochester, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1788) *

In the Name of God Amen I Thos. West of Rochester Clerk, being (thro’ the Goodness of God) of perfect mind & memory, and calling to mind that it is appointed unto all men once to die do make and ordain this my Last will & testament– vizt– In the first place I Give & bequeath my Soul unto God who gave it, thro’ Jesus Christ my dear redeemer, my body to the Ground to buried with decent Christian burial, and as to such worldly estate as it hath pleased God to bless me with, I Give, bequeath & dispose of it in the following manner ~

Imprimis – I Give and bequeath to my beloved Son Thomas all my farm in Rochester on which we now Live, to him & his forever. ~

Item – I Give & bequeath to my beloved Son Samuel, my Concordance & Expositions, to him & his forever ~

Item – I Give & bequeath to my beloved Son Benjamin all my Greek & Latin books, to him & his forever ~

Item – I Give & bequeath to my beloved Son Timothy all my Stock & out-door moveables & also all my wearing Apparell to him & his forever

Item – I Give & bequeath to my beloved Daughters Keturah, Drusilla, & Sarah, all my Indoor moveables to equally divided among them to them & theirs forever, except what belonged to my Son John & my two Last wives ~

Item – I Give & bequeath to my beloved Daughter Sarah Freeman, widow, in consideration of her poverty & widowhood, all the money which I shall Leave, either in Specie or Securities over & above her dividend aforesaid to her & hers forever, my debts & funeral Charges being first paid out of it as aforesaid. ~

Item – I Give & bequeath to the Children of my beloved Son John deceased all that shall be found that was their fathers, to be equally divided among them ~

Item – I Give & bequeath to the Sons of my second wife all that can be then found that was their mothers, to be equally divided between them ~

Item – I Give & bequeath to the Children of my third wife, all that can be then found that was their mothers, to be equally divided among them

Item – my will is, that my books except those above mentioned be equally divided among all my Children – and I do hereby constitute & appoint my Son Thos. aforsd. & my son Enoch Hammond Esqr. to be jointly my Executors of this my Last will & testament. In Confirmation of all which I have hereunto Set my hand & affixed my Seal this 9th day of December 1788 ~

Signed, sealed & declared by the sd. Thos. West

to be his Last will & testament in presence of

Moses Hammond – Obed Barlow – Elihu                                                                      Thos. West                           (seal)

Sherman – Noah Hammond – Benjamin

Hammond ye. 4th – Nathl. Hammond junr.

 

Presented for probate on 5 Oct. 1790 by Thomas West and Enoch Hammond Esqr, the Executors therein named, and proved by Elihu Sherman and Noah Hammond, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Thomas West and Enoch Hammond Esquire, the before named Executors.

 

John Bennet, yeoman, Abraham Holmes esqr. and John Nye Gentm, all of Rochester, were appointed to appraise the estate of Thomas West, late of Rochester, Clerk, on 5 Oct. 1790. The Inventory of the Estate of the Late Revd. Thomas West of Rochester, dated 20 Aug. 1790, totaled £872.10.10, including his real estate, buildings and appurtenances valued at £693. Abraham Holmes Esqr. gave his oath to the inventory on 13 Sept. 1790, and Thos. West and Enoch Hammond esqr, the Executors, gave their oath to the inventory on 5 Oct. 1790.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 31, p. 274-278, from FHL microfilm #0550716.

 

 

Will of Benjamin Weston of Plymouth, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1858) *

                In the name of God, amen. I, Benjamin Weston, of Plymouth, in the County of Plymouth, being sick and weak in body, but of sound and disposing mind and memory, desire to make disposition of my worldly estate both Real & Personal.

                First, I commit my body to the dust and my soul to God who gave it, believing on Christ as a Divine Saviour, looking to him as the Author and finisher of my Faith, to whom I look for salvation.

                After the payment of all my just debts and funeral expenses, and the erection of a suitable monument or monuments, to mark the resting-place of my mortal body, and also that of my beloved wife, at her decease;—

                1st  I give, devise and bequeath to my son, Henry Weston, his heirs & assigns forever all the right, title & interest that I have in common with Sylvanus Harlow, in my shop at the waterside, with all the tools, benches, chests and stock, that may be in said shop, of every description belonging to me.

                2nd  I give devise and bequeath to my grand-son Benjamin H. Weston, my watch, and one large silver-spoon, which belonged to my Great, Great, Great Grandfather – Benjamin Weston.

                3d   I give devise and bequeath to my beloved wife Joanna Weston, the improvement of all my Real and Personal Estate, during her natural life.

                4th  After the decease of my beloved wife, I give to my three unmarried daughters, viz:- Joanna, Mary & Bathsheba the improvement of all my Real and Personal Estate to be held in common, and in case of the death of either of the three, of the above named daughters, the Survivors or survivor shall continue to have the improvement of said estate the same as if all were living. And in case one or more of said daughters should be married, her or their right to any part of the income or improvement of said estate shall cease, & the whole as above provided, shall belong to the unmarried one or more, as the case may be.

                5th  After the decease of my beloved wife if the three above named daughters shall be married, my estate shall be equally divided among my children, or their heirs, if they or any of them should not be living.

                6th  If the above named daughters come into possession of the improvement of my estate, or any one or more of them come into the improvement of said estate, after the decease of my beloved wife, at their decease or marriage, my estate shall be divided as expressed in Section 5th

                7th  In relation to my three other daughters, viz: Jeanette, the wife of Warren S. Macomber, Elizabeth, the wife of Nathan P. Lamson, and Catharine, the wife of Isaac K. Harlow, having done for them what I could when they married, I make no other provision for them, except that made at the final distribution of my Estate.

                8th I hereby appoint my son Henry Weston, and my son-in-law Nathan P. Lamson, Executors of this my last Will and Testament.

                In witness whereof, I the said Benjamin Weston, have hereunto set my hand this third day of July, in the year one thousand eight hundred and fifty eight.

                                                                                                                                                Benj. Weston.

                Signed, published & declared by the said Benjamin Weston, as and for his last Will and Testament, in our presence, and in the presence of each other, and at his request, have hereunto subscribed our names as witnesses, this third day of July, in the year one thousand eight hundred and fifty eight.

                                                                                                                                                T. Gordon

                                                                                                                                                Will. Weston

                                                                                                                                                Albert Barnes

 

Presented for probate on the first Monday of Dec. 1858, by Henry Weston and Nathan P. Lamson, the Executors therein named, and proved by Albert Barnes, one of the witnesses, the other two witnesses being Timothy Gordon and William Weston.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 100, p. 486-488, from FHL microfilm #0555644.

 

 

Will of David Weston of Middleborough, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1835) *

        In the name of God, Amen. I, David Weston of Middleborough in the County of Plymouth and Commonwealth of Massachusetts, considering the uncertainty of this mortal life, and being of sound and perfect mind and memory, blessed be Almighty God for the same, do make and publish this my last Will and Testament in manner and form following, that is to say. ~

        Firstly. I give and bequeath unto my eldest daughter Susanna Lincoln, the sum of twenty five dollars. –

        I give and bequeath unto my second daughter, Polly Weston, Single-woman, twenty five dollars – Also in addition to the above, I give her the sum of one hundred dollars, together with all my household furniture, which I shall leave undisposed of, at my decease, as a compensation to her for her services in the family.

        I give and bequeath to my youngest daughter Keziah Lincoln, Widow-woman, the sum of thirty five dollars.

        And I give and bequeath unto my youngest son Enoch Weston the sum of three hundred and fifty nine dollars, in addition to what I have heretofore given him.

        Secondly. And on conditions that the above named legatees shall and do remise, release and forever quitclaim unto their eldest brother, my son Andrew Weston, his heirs and assigns forever, their right and title to a certain lot and parcel of land lying in Middleborough, and County as aforesaid, which land belonged to their mother, Keziah Weston, deceased, and which was given her by her honored father, Barnabas Eaton, deceased, then, on the above conditions, and not-otherwise, I will and order that the sum of twenty five dollars be added to each and every one of the above Legacies, and paid out of my estate — which said several legacies, or sums of money, I will and order that they shall be paid to the said respective legatees, within three months after my decease.

        Third and Lastly – As to all the rest, residue and remainder of my estate, lands, stock, goods and chattels of whatever name or nature, I give and bequeath the same to my eldest son, Andrew Weston, his heirs and assigns forever – And I hereby appoint him sole Executor of this my last Will and Testament – And I do hereby revoke all former Wills by me made.

        In witness whereof I hereunto set my hand and seal this eighth day of April in the year of our Lord and Saviour one thousand eight hundred & thirty five.

                                                                                                                                                           his

                                                                                                                                                David  +  Weston                (seal)

                                                                                                                                                          mark

Signed, sealed, published and declared, by the within named David Weston, to be his last Will and Testament in the presence of us, who have hereunto subscribed our names as witnesses in the presence of the testator.

        David Alden Jr

        Silas Hathaway

        Cyrus Washburn.

 

Presented for probate on 5 Apr. 1836, and proved by David Alden Jr and Cyrus Washburn, two of the subscribing witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Andrew Weston of Middleborough, Yeoman, on 5 Apr. 1836.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 78, p. 125-127, from FHL microfilm #0555264.

 

 

Will of Edmond Weston of Duxbury, Plymouth Colony (1686) *

Duxborough. This Eighteenth Day of the 2d. M. 1686. The Last Will and Testament of Edmond Weston. In the Name of God So Let it be I being Very aged & Sick & weak yet haveing My Right understanding & Not Knowing The Day of My Death, That Others May be at Peace when I am Dead I Do thus will that my Estate May be So Disposed of when I am Dead –

First – I Do will & Bequeath My Body to the Earth for a Season & that it be Decently Burried & Funeral Charges & My Debts to be paid out of My Personall Estate Before any Legasies & My Soul to God that Gave it me whom I Trust has Redemed it –

Secondly I Do will & Bequeath unto my Son Edmond all my Lands lying on the North Side of Green, Harbour Brook –

3d. I do will & Bequeath Unto My Son John one red Heifer Now with Calfe & one yearling Heifer & My old Mare –

4  I do will & Bequeath unto my Daughter Mary Now the Wife of John Delano My Bigest Pot & a Tract of Land where the sd Delanos house Doth Stand according to the Bounds formerly agreed on & the Land that I had of him to Return to him againe –

4  I Do will Constitute Ordain & appointe My Son Elnathan to be Executor of this my Last will & Testament –

5  I Do will & Bequeath unto my Son Elnathan My house & all Lands lying In Duxborough and all the Remaining Part of My Estate he paying Debts & Legaceys. Thus Desiering to Waite Until My Change Shall be I Shall Subscribe to These Presence the Day & year above Expressed. In the Presence of These Witnesses

Edward Southworth

Thomas Delano                                                                                                                   Edmond    (seal)    Weston

 

Probated on 3 June 1686, and proved by Edward Southworth and Thomas Delano, the witnesses.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 8, p. 17-18, from FHL microfilm #0551531.

 

 

Will of Thomas Weston of Duxbury, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1776) *

                                In the Name of God Amen ~

On the Twenty second day of Aprill in the year of our Lord 1776 I Thomas Weston of Duxborough in the County of Plymouth yeoman being of a sound mind & memory thanks be Give to almighty God therefor, calling to mind the mortallity of my body & knowing it is appointed for all men to die, I do make & ordain this my Last will & Testament, that is to say principally & first of all I Give & recommend my Soul into the hands of God that Gave it, & my body I recommend to the Earth to be buried in a decent & christian manner nothing doubting but at the General resurrection I shall recieve the same again by the almighty power of God & as touching such worldly Estate as it hath pleased God to bless me with in this Life–I Give & demise in the following manner & form

Imprimis — I Give & bequeath to my dear & Loving wife Martha Weston the improvement of one half of my real Estate & one third of my personal Estate & wood in the woods for a fire so Long as she shall remain my Widow & all the things she brought to me with her for her own to dispose of as she pleaseth ~

Item — I Give to my Two Sons & two daughters, which I had by my First wife viz Joseph & Thomas & Mary & Jane all that piece of woodland which was their mother’s my first wife Equall between them, all the rest of my reall Estate I Give to my three Sons, Joseph Thomas & Peleg Equal one half at my decease the other half at my wives decease, I also Give to these my three Sons my four Guns & all my Shop Tools – I Give to my Son Thomas my blue boat & black westcoat and a pair of patterns for black breeches and a pair of black Stockings & my Silver Shoe buckles—I Give to my Son Peleg my Silver knee buckles, my stone buttons ~ I Give to my three sons above named all the rest of my personal Estate not yet mentioned Equally between them, two thirds at my decease the other third at my wives decease. & I do oblige my three Sons herein named to pay all my debts & funeral Charges Equally between them—I Give to my four daughters vizt– Mary, Jane, Mercy, & Rebecca Forty & Six pounds thirteen shillings & four pence a piece each of them to be paid by my three Sons above named Equally. & I do also Give to my four daughters above named a priviledge in my house so Long as they Live unmarried – I do constitute & ordain my wife Martha Weston & my son Joseph Weston to be my Sole Executors of this my Last Will & Testament and I do hereby revoke & disannull every other former Will & Testament Ratifying & confirming this to be my Last Will & Testament, In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand & Seal this day & year above written

Signed, Sealed, pronounced & declared by the sd

Thomas Weston to be his Last Will & Testament                                                        Thomas Weston                                (seal)

in presence of us the Subscribers ~

William Simmons

Abel Chandler

Judah Delano

 

Presented for probate on 3 June 1776 by Martha Weston and Joseph Weston, the Executors therein named, and proved by William Simmons and Judah Delano, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Martha & Joseph, the before named Executors.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Thomas Weston, late of Duxbury yeoman, was appraised on 19 June 1776 by Judah Delano, Edward Winslow and William Simmons, and totaled £1219.18.6, including his real estate valued at £805.6.4. Martha Weston and Joseph Weston, the Executor and Executrix, gave their oath to the inventory on 1 July 1776.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 25, p. 7-8, from FHL microfilm #0550713.

 

 

Will of Zachariah Weston of Middleborough, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1763) *

In the Name of God Amen this 27th of September A.D. 1763. I Zechariah Weston of Middleborough in the county of Plymo. Yeoman being sick & under many Bodily Infirmities but of a perfect mind & Memory thanks be given unto God therefor. Wherefore calling to mind the mortality of my Body & knowing that it is appointed for all once to die do make & ordain this to be my last will & Testament

Principally & first of all I give & recommend my Soul into the hands of God that gave it & my Body to the Earth to be buried in Christian Burial nothing doubting but at the General Resurrection I shall receive the same again by the mighty power of God & as touching such worldly Estate as it hath pleased to God to bless me with in this life, I give & dispose of the same in the following manner & form.

Imps. I give & bequeath unto Mehitable Weston my true & beloved wife And to her heirs forever my Cow & Swine with my two feather Beds & Bedding as also my Chests, Tables, Chairs, pewter, & Iron hollowware together together with all my moveable Effects both in doors & out of Doors—

Furthermore I do hereby appoint Mehitable my aforesd. wife to be the Sole Executrix of this my last will & Testament thus hoping that this my last will & Testament will be kept according to the true intent & meaning hereof. In witness whereof I the said Zechariah Weston have hereunto sett my hand & seal the Day & Year above written. ~

Signed sealed published pronounced & declared by                                                                      his

the sd. Zachariah Weston as his last will &                                                                    Zachariah  Z  Weston                         (seal)

Testament in prescence of us the Subscribers.                                                                               mark

Simeon Dogget.                    John Cobb.

                Joseph Tinkham

 

Presented for probate on 24 Apr. 1764 by Mehitable Weston, the Executrix therein named, and proved by Joseph Tinkham Esq. and Simeon Dogget, two of the witnesses. Letter of Administration on the estate of Zachariah Weston were granted to Mehitable Weston, the Executrix.

 

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 19, p. 35-36, from FHL microfilm #0550711.

 

 

Will of Samuel Whipple of Cumberland, Providence County, Rhode Island (1779) *

In the Name of God Amen I Samuel Whipple of Cumberland in the County of providence and State of Rhode Island and providence plantations Yeoman being Weak in Body But of perfect Mind and Memory Thanks be given to God therefor Do this Eighth Day of May and in the Year of our Lord One Thousand Seven hundred and Seventy Nine Make and Publish this my Last Will and Testament In manner and form Following that is to Say

Imprimis } I Commend my Soul into the hands of Allmighty God That gave it to me and my Body to the Earth from whence it came. In hopes of a Joyfull Resurrection Through the merits of my Saviour Jesus Christ, And as for the Worldly Estate wherewith it hath pleased God to bless me in this Life I dispose thereof as Followeth .  .  .  .  .  .  .  .

Item } I give to my Dearly Beloved Wife Elizabeth Whipple the free use and Improvement of all my Real Estate during her Natural Life, I likewise Give to my aforesaid Beloved Wife the free use and Improvement of all my personal Estate After my Just Debts and Funeral Charges shall be paid and Discharged out of my Out door Moveables which I hereby order and will Should be done during her Natural Life .  .  .  .  .  .  .  .

Item } I give to my Beloved Daughter Elizabeth Whipple The smallest of my Dwelling Houses Together with One Acre of Land Begining On the Road Northerly from said House and Runing Eight Rods East, from thence Twenty Rods Southeasterly from thence Eight Rods Westerly to the high way from thence Twenty Rods by said highway to the first Corner to be and Remain to her and to her Heirs and Assigns as an Absolute Estate of Inheritance in fee simple forever—

Item } I give to my Beloved Daughter Huldy Weatherhead Six Acres of Meadow Land to be set of at the West End of a Lott of Land that Lyeth Near Capt. Enoch Weatherheads Land and Northerly with Lands of Roger Hill To be and Remain to her her Heirs and Assigns as an Absolute Estate of Inheritance in fee Simple forever—

Item } I give to my Seven Daughters Namely Watestill Howard, Hannah Wilkinson, Freelove Bowen, Elizabeth Whipple Mary Lovett Chloe Whipple, and Huldah Weatherhead all my Lands and Buildings situate lying and being within The Township of Cumberland Aforesaid and that are not here tofore given away to be and Remain to them Their Heirs and Assigns as an Absolute Estate of Inheritance In fee Simple forever to be Equally divided Betwixt them by Quantity and Quality .  .  .  .  .  .  .  .

Item } I give to my Two Daughters Elizabeth and Chloe One Cow each and all my In door Moveables to be Equally divided betwixt them to them their Heirs and Assigns .  .  .  .  .  .  .  .

Item } I give to Simon Whipple Son of Hannah Wilkinson and Abner Feild Son of Chloe Whipple all my Stock of Cattle and Out door Moveables that shall Remain after my Just Debts and Funeral Charges and the Two afore mentioned Cows are taken out of the Same To them their Heirs &c.  .  .  .  .  .  .  .

And I make and ordain Simon Wilkinson of Cumberland In the County of providence and State aforesaid Yeoman with my Wife Elizabeth Whipple Joint Executors of this my Last Will and Testament and do hereby utterly Revoke and disanul all and every other former Testament Wills Legacies and Bequeaths and Executors by me in any wise made willed and Bequeathed Rattifieng and Confirming this and no other To be my Last Will and Testament In Witness where of I the said Samuel Whipple Do hereunto Set my Hand and Seal The day and Year first afore Written .  .  .  .  .  .  .  .

Signed Sealed Published pronounced and Declared By the said Samuel Whipple as his Last Will and Testament In the presence of Us whose Name are here under Written

who did Each of us Subscribe our Names              }

As Witnesses at his Request and in his                    }

Presence in the Room where he then was               }

 

Roger Alexander                                                                                                                 Samuel Whipple                (seal)

Israel Whipple Junior

Nathaniel Shepardson

 

Proved by Roger Alexander, Israel Whipple Juner and Nathaniel Shepardson on 9 Sept. 1780.

 

Whereas Mr Samuel Whipple of Cumberland in the County of Providence Yeoman who Departed this Life the Nineteenth Day of August Annoque Domini 1780 Did as and by his Last Will and Testament Nominate Appoint and Ordain his Wife Elizabeth Whipple and Simon Wilkinson of said Cumberland Yeoman Joint Executors of his Said Last Will and Testament…

 

The inventory of Samuel Whipple of Cumberland, Deceased, appraised by Enoch Weatherhead and Jonathan Mosher on the Seventh and Eighth Days of September AD 1780, totaled £257.2, and was recorded on 9 Sept. 1780.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Cumberland Probate Records, Vol. 5, p. 385-390, from FHC microfilm #955,490.

 

 

Will of Charles White of Junius, Seneca County, New York (1829) *

        In the name of God Amen. I Charles White of the town of Junius in the County of Seneca & State of New york, being weak in body but of sound & perfect mind and memory blessed be Almighty God for the same, Do make and publish this my last will & testament in manner & form following that is to say First I give & bequeath unto my two youngest sons Ezra White & James White my farm on which I now (live) reside, to be equally divided between them on the express condition that they support my wife Sarah White during her life. I do also give & bequeath to my four sons Thomas, John Ezra and James the Saw mill which I now occupy to be equally divided between them, by each of them paying their equal proportion of sum due towards the building & purchase of said mill & I do also give & bequeath to my three daughters Phebe Hayns            Sweet & Anna Lay all my personal property to be equally divided between them, after paying all my Just debts & funeral expences: and lastly I do hereby appoint John White my second son & Thomas C. Magee my sole executors of this my last will & testament hereby revoking all former wills by me made. In witness I have hereunto set my hand & seal the fifteenth day of January in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and twenty nine (1829)

Signed sealed published & declared by the above        }

named Charles White to be his last will & testament  }                                              Charles White                   (seal)

in the presence of us who have hereunto subscribed    }

our names as witnesses in the presence of the testator }

Abraham Stocker

Robert L. Livingston

Simeon Seekell

 

Presented for probate on 6 Feb. 1829, and proved by Abraham Stocker, Robert Livingston, and Simeon Seekell, the three witnesses.

 

Letters of Administration on the estate of Charles White were granted to John White and Thomas C. Magee, the Executors, on 6 Feb. 1829.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Seneca County Probate, Vol. A, p. 19-20, Vol. A3, p. 27-28.

 

 

Will of Daniel White of Marshfield, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1721) *

In ye. Name of God amen: I Daniel White of Marshfield in ye. County of Plymouth in ye. Province of ye. Massachusetts Bay In New:England yeoman ye. 25th. day of May in ye. year of our Lord one Thousand Seven Hundred & Twenty one: Being aged & Infirm of Body but of Perfect Sound mind & memory & Calling to mind ye. uncertainty of this Life & being desirous to Settle Things in order do make & ordain this my last Will & Testament in manner & Form following That is to Say first & Principally I Comend my Soul to God my Creator & my Body to ye. Earth in decent Buriall: In Such manner as to my Executor thereafter named Shall be Thought most meet & Convenient & as to Such worldly goods & Estate as ye. Lord In mercy hath given me; my mind & Will is that ye same Shall be Imployed & disposed of according as in this my will is Expressed: viz: I give & Bequeath to my Beloved wife Hannah White all ye. use & Profitts of my whole Estate both Real & Personal during ye. whole term of Her Natural Life & after Her decease my Will is That my Son John White Shall Have five Shillings: & my Son Joseph White five Shillings & my Son Eleazer White Shall have Three Pounds in money or moneys worth Paid to them out of my Estate, by my Executor hereafter named & all ye. Remainder of my Estate WheresoEver it is or may be found which I have not formerly disposed of by deed or deeds Shall be Equally divided between my five Youngest Sons. Namely Thomas White, Cornelius White, Benjamin White, Eleazer White & Ebenezer White  Lastly I do hereby Constitute ordain & appoint my Son Cornelius White Sole Executor to this my last Will & Testament.

Signed Sealed Published & declared                                                                                         His

By ye. sd. Daniel White ye. Testator                                                                                 Daniel  Z  White                  (seal)

to be his last Will & Testament                                                                                               Marke

In ye. Presence of

Josiah Thomas

Ebenezer Howland

Arthur Howland Junr.

 

Probated on 28 May 1724, and proved by Josiah Thomas, Ebenezer Howland and Arthur Howland Junr., the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Cornelius White, the Sole Executor, on 8 June 1724.

 

The Inventory of the estate of Mr. Daniel White, late of Marshfield, was appraised by John Barker, Peleg Foord, and Arthur Howland Junr. on 8 June 1724, but not totaled. Cornelius White, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 6 Aug. 1724.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 4, p. 447-449, from FHL microfilm #0550510.

 

 

Will of Joel White of Halifax, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1821) *

        In the name of God Amen. I Joel White of Halifax in the County of Plymouth, in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Yeoman considering the uncertainty of this mortal life & being of sound mind and memory, thanks be given to Almighty God for the same, do make and publish this my last will and Testament in manner and form following.

  First. I give & bequeath unto my beloved wife Margaret White the sum of sixty Dollars annually to be paid out of my Estate, also as much room in my Dwelling house as is convenient for her use during her natural life, Also my Executor is hereby directed to furnish my said wife with as much firewood, delivered & cut up at the door annually as will be necessary for her use out of my Estate. Also one Cow to be kept on my Estate for her use during her natural life, also what household furniture she may think necessary for her own use and to be at her own disposal.

  I do also give and bequeath to my eldest son Bethuel White my sawmill with all the apparatus thereunto belonging, and also all the flowing privileges which I bought for the use of said saw mill & Also the sum of one hundred & fifty Dollars to be paid in current money in one year from the decease of my said wife.

  I also give & bequeath to the children of my deceased Daughter Betsey Rider as follows viz, to Nathaniel C Rider the sum of two hundred Dollars to be paid by my Executor out of my Estate in current money when he shall arrive at the age of twenty one years & in case of his decease before that time said two hundred Dollars to be equally divided among my heirs, to my Granddaughter Priscilla B Rider the sum of twenty five Dollars to be paid by my Executor in current money on her arrival to the age of twenty one years & in case she should not live to the age of twenty one years, said twenty five Dollars to be equally divided among my heirs.

  I also give and bequeath to my two Grandsons, Friend White and Hiram White, sons of my deceased son  Friend White one hundred Dollars each to be paid to them on their becoming twenty one years of age, to be paid by my Executor in current money out of my Estate, my will is that if either of them should decease before they arrive at twenty one years of age the survivor is to have two hundred Dollars to be paid as aforesaid & in case neither of them arrive to the age of twenty one years, the said two hundred Dollars is equally to be divided among my Heirs, said sums of two hundred Dollars to bear Interest in one year from the decease of my said wife in case our death happen before they the said Friend & Hiram arrive to twenty one years of age.

   And I do also give and bequeath to my sons Abiel White, Cyrus White & Welcome White, to my Daughters Clarissa White, Fanny White and Peggy White and the children of my deceased Daughter Nancy Rider, and the children of my deceased Daughter Lucinda Howland the residue of my Estate to be divided among them in the following manner viz, the said Abiel White, Cyrus White and Welcome White, Clarissa White & Fanny White to have equal share and my Daughter Peggy White to have one hundred and fifty Dollars less than my said sons & unmarried Daughters, the children of my deceased Daughter Nancy Rider to have two hundred Dollars less than my said sons and unmarried Daughters, and the children of my deceased Daughter Lucinda Howland to have two hundred Dollars less than my said sons & unmarried Daughters, my meaning & intention is, the children of my deceased Daughter Nancy shall have one share with the exception of two hundred Dollars, which sd several legacies I will & order shall bear Interest from one year after the decease of my said wife.

   My will & intention is that if my son Cyrus White should not have issue arrive at the age of twenty one years, the share herein bequeathed to him is to revert back to my heirs after his decease & my will also is that if my son Welcome shall not have issue arrive at twenty one years of age, the share herein bequeathed to him shall at his decease revert to my heirs.

   And I do hereby appoint Obadiah Lyon of Halifax in said County my sole Executor of this my last will & Testament with full power (in case of his Infirmity) to appoint a successor, hereby revoking all former wills by me made.

   In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal the twenty second day of March in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and twenty one.

        The words “with full power to appoint in case of his Infirmity to appoint his successor” and the words “and fifty” were interlined before signing

  Signed, Sealed, published & declared by the

above named Joel White to be his last will

and Testament in presence of us who at

his request and in his presence have

hereunto subscribed our names as witnesses.

        Seth Allen                                                                                                                      Joel White                                           (seal)

        William Allen

        Joshua Lyon

 

Presented for probate on 1 Oct. 1822 by Obadiah Lyon Esqr., the Executor therein named, and proved by Seth Allen and Joshua Lyon, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Obadiah Lyon, the before named Executor.

 

        Plymouth Ss Court of Probate October 1st 1822. To Obadiah Lyon Executor of the last will and Testament of Joel White late of Halifax in sd county yeoman deceased –                                        Greeting

        You are hereby directed to sell at public auction the whole personal Estate of said deceased and account with me for the proceeds of the same.

                                                                                                                                                Wilkes Wood J Prob

 

Reuben Sylvester, yeoman, Nathaniel Holmes, yeoman, and Thomas Fuller, yeoman, all of Halifax, were appointed to appraise the Estate of Joel White, late of Halifax, on 18 Sept. 1822. The Inventory of the Estate of Joel White, late of Halifax, was not dated or totaled. His real estate was valued at $640.67, and he had several large notes of hand due to the estate, including one from Willis Alger & Co. for $3300. Obadiah Lyon, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 21 Oct. 1822.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 56, pp. 123-126, 198-201, from FHL microfilm #0550909.

 

 

Abstract of the Will of Peregrine White of Marshfield, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1704) *

The Will of Peregrine White of Marshfield, dated 14 July 1704, “being aged & under many weaknesses of bodily infirmitite…”

To Sarah my welbeloved wife – all my goods & chattels during her natural life.

Having already given by deed of 19 Aug. 1674 to my Eldest son Daniel White my tenement or homestead with my other land & rights of land in Marshfield, I further give him my great table & fourms, my joyn works bedstead and cupboard, also one moiety or half my lands & right of land in Middleborough, he to provide both summer and winter a cow for my wife. Daniel also is obliged to pay, in the deed, unto my Daughters Sarah and Marey each 10 pounds each.

I give the other moiety or half my lands & right of land in Middleborough to my two sons Jonathan and Peregrin to be equally parted between them.

Also I give to son Jonathan my Rapier and to his eldest son my gun.

All my goods & chattels that remain at my wifes decease are to be equally divided between my four children Jonathan, Peregrine, Sarah and Marey.

Sarah my wife to live in the part of my dwelling house that I now live in, plus I give her one third of the rents & profits of the land for the term of her natural life.

I appoint my wife Sarah and eldest son Daniel to be Joynt Executors, and I request my good friends & neighbors Samuel Sprague Senior and John Dogett to be overseers.

Witnesses:                                                                                             t                               he mark  P  W  of Peregrine White

Samuel Sprague

Thomas Dogget

Mary  M  Joyce

      her marke

 

Probated on 14 Aug. 1704, and proved by Samuel Sprague, Thomas Dogget, and Mary Joyce.

 

An Inventory of the Goods Chattels & Credits of Mr Peregrine White late of Marshfield deceased Taken & Apprised the 3d of August Anno Domini 1704 by John Dogget & Saml Sprague. [Not totaled] Mrs Sarah White, Relict widdow of Capt: Peregrine White late deceased & Daniel White his son gave their oath to the inventory on 14 Aug. 1704.

 

* Abstracted by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 2, p. 48-50, from FHL microfilm #0550748.

 

 

Will of Richard L. White of Colchester, Delaware County, New York (1856) *

                The last Will and Testament of Richard L. White of the town of Colchester in the County of Delaware and State of New York – I Richard L. White considering the uncertainty of this Mortal life, and being of sound mind and memory (blessed be Almighty God for the same) do make and publish this my last Will and Testament in manner and form following that is to say ~ First I give and bequeath unto my beloved wife Elizabeth V. White all that messuage or tenament Situated lying and being in the said town of Coulchester in the County and State aforesaid Being the South Easterly part of the farm on which I now reside comprehending all the lands I now possess that lies south East of the brook that runs across the public highway to the Delaware River and known and distinguished as the Reynard brook to have and to hold the same so long as she after my death shall remain unmarried, and if not married during her natural life with the appurtenances thereunto belonging, Also all the Stock crops hay or grain whatsoever and farming utensils that I am possessed of at my decease And also all moneys or demands that I leave at my death, subject nevertheless to pay all debts for which I am legally bound, and I also reserve from the above mentioned stock one grey Coalt three years old past which I have given to my second son Thomas E. White – Also three Cows and twenty sheep. And I also further Will and bequeath to my beloved wife all my household furniture beds and bedding excepting and reserving two beds and bedding for the same and two bedsteds for my daughter Juniette A. White – Also a bed and bedding for for Each of my four sons whenever they shall get married and need the same, to be such beds and bedding as my wife shall see fit to set apart for them or apportion to each, And I also reserve for my daughter Juniette A. a sufficient quantity of household furniture to be of the value of One hundred and fifty Dollars including the two Cows, five sheep and beds, two bedsteds and bedding for the two beds to amount in all to the above sum of One hundred and fifty dollars, to be given to her the said Juniette A. when married I also reserve for my oldest daughter Mary M. One Cow and five sheep and sufficient household furniture to be of the value of fifty Dollars to be give to the said Mary M. when married or when she commences keeping house

I give and bequeath to my two oldest sons Perry L. S. White and Thomas E. White the residue of my lands not bequeathed to my said wife be the part of the farm on which I now reside that lies on the Northwesterly side of the above mentioned brook Known as the Reynard brook and extending to the lands formerly owned and occupied by Majah D. Lanfield

  I further give and bequeath to each of my children except Perry L. S. White one skip of bus each and the residue to my said wife – I also give to my two youngest sons Amasa E. and Ambrose E. White at the death or marriage of my said Wife all that part or portion of my Real Estate, heretofore given to my said wife during her natural life or state of celibacy Consisting of the South Easterly part of the farm on which I now reside, being the part that lies on the South Easterly side of the Reynard brook, to have and to hold the same unto them their heirs Executors and Administrators or assigns forever

  I further give and bequeath to Amasa E. White and Ambrose E. White at the death of my said Wife, ten sheep each if so many there be at that time, if not the value of ten sheep to be paid out the personal property. I also give to Ambrose E. my Silver Masonic Medal

  I also give and bequeath to my two oldest sons Perry L. S. White and Thomas E. White each personal property of the value of fifty dollars, and to each of my daughters Mary M. Lavina A. and Juniette A. One hundred and fifty dollars worth of personal property if so much there be, and in case there be not personal property at the decease of my said wife to pay the last mentioned sums, amounting in all to five hundred and fifty dollars, then and in that case my Will is that Amasa E. White and Ambrose E. White make up and pay the deficiency out of the Messuage tenament or apportionment heretofore given and bequeathed to them and I hereby charge and make chargable the same on the said Real Estate given and bequeathed to the said Amasa E. White and Ambrose E. White, and in case there be at the decease of my said wife personal property over and above paying the said sums of five hundred and fifty dollars then the overpluss shall be equally divided among my children share and share alike – And it is further provided and my Will is that in case the dwelling house and furniture therein should accidentally be destroyed by fire, that in consideration of the foregoing bequests that Perry L. S. Thomas E. Mary M. Lavina A. and Juniette A. White shall pay to Amasa E. and Ambrose E. White the sum of twenty five dollars each and every of them that is to say in case the destruction should happen before Ambrose E. and Amasa E. take possession of the aforesaid messuage or tenament – And further also my true intent and meaning is that insted of Perry L. S. Thos E. Mary M. Lovina A. and Junietta A White paying the aforesaid twenty five dollars each to Amasa E. and Ambrose E. that their portions or bequests shall be made each twenty five dollars less of the personal property – And further after the death of my said Wife my Will is and I so ordain That Mary M. take my bureau at the value of ten dollars and that Junitte A. take my Desk and table belonging thereto at the value of eight dollars, and Lavina A. take my larges brass Kettle and my Largest Cherry table at the value of seven Dollars and each a bed and bedding not appraised by me but to be appraised by some disinterested person or persons And the value thereof and the Bureau Desk and table Largest brass Kettle and table to be included in and make a part of each of their respective portions or bequests of One hundred and fifty Dollars Each – And further my Will is and I so determine that in case Meary M. should die previous to the death of my said wife then and in that case her portion shall be made fifty dollars less And I further Will and declare that the provisions and bequests made in this my last Will and Testament to my beloved wife Elizabeth V. White is in lieu and full of her dower and right of Dower –

                And now for the further satisfaction of my said children in this Will named and all persons therein concerned I do herein State and declare that previous to the making of this my last Will and Testament I have given to Perry L. S. One hundred dollars to Thomas E. One hundred Dollars to Mary M. One hundred Dollars of which I have received ten Dollars back in a cow and to Lavina A. ten Dollars all of which I have given them in personal property at my own Estimate and I in this my last Will have given to Juniette A. White fifty Dollars more than I have given either of my other two daughters for the reason that she has been at home with me more after she was twenty one years of age than the other two – And Lastly my Express will and meaning is and I do hereby order and appoint that if any difference, dispute qustion or controversy shall be moved arise or happen concerning any gift bequest matter or thing in this my Will given & bequeathed, Expressed or contained that then no suit or suits in law or equity or otherwise, shall be brought commenced or prosecuted for or concerning the same But the same shall be referred wholy to the award order and determination of friends Nicholas Huntly of the town of Andes and James M. Buckley both of the town of Colchester in the County of Delaware and Sate of New York and what they shall order direct and determine therein shall be binding and conclusive to all and every person or persons therein concerned In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal the 15th day of February 1856.                                                                                        Richard L. White                              (seal)

The above instrument consisting of one and a half sheets was now here subscribed by Richard L. White the testator in the presence of us and was at the same time declared by him to be his last Will and Testament and we at his request sign our names hereto as attesting witnesses

                                                                                                                James M. Bulkley Residing in Colchester

                                                                                                                  Delaware County and State of New York

                                                                                                                Enos S. More residing in Colchester Delaware

                                                                                                                  County and State of New York

 

Presented for probate on 3 Oct. 1863, and proved by James M. Bulkley of the town of Colchester and Enos S. More of the town of Colchester.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Delaware County Probate Wills Vol. F, p. 574-578, from FHL microfilm #0832862.

 

 

Will of Levi Whiting of Plymouth, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1819) *

                                I Levi Whiting of Plymouth in the County of Plymouth considering the uncertainty of this mortal life and being of sound mind, do make and publish this my last will and Testament in manner and form following, that is to say

                                I give and bequeath unto my beloved wife Deborah Whiting all my personal Estate, goods, and chattels, of what kind and nature soever. I also give and devise to her the said Deborah all my real Estate lying and being in said Plymouth and all my other real Estate whatsoever, wheresoever the same may be, and I do hereby appoint said Deborah Whiting sole Executrix of this my last will & Testament, hereby revoking all former wills by me made

                                In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand & seal this twenty first day of June in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and nineteen.

Signed, Sealed, published & declared

by the above named Levi Whiting to be his

last will & Testament in the presence of us who                                                           Levi Whiting                                      (seal)

at his request & in his presence have hereunto

subscribed our names as Witnesses to the same

        Freeman Morton

        Nathaniel Bartlett

        Jane Burgess

 

Presented for probate on 18 June 1821 by Deborah Whiting, the Executrix therein named, and proved by Freeman Morton and Jane Burgess, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Deborah Whiting, the before named Executrix.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 53, p. 449-450, from FHL microfilm #0550907.

 

 

Will of Nathan Whiting of Plymouth, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1823) *

I Nathan Whiting of Plymouth, in the County of Plymouth, in feeble health and knowing that death, inevitable, is the lot of all men do thus dispose of my estate~ In the first place after my just, debts shall be paid, I give to my wife Betsey Whiting while she shall continue my widow the use and improvement of one third part of all my estate, personal & real, intending hereby, that the furniture, in the house shall be used by her and for the family, till my youngest child, then living shall become of age: and then my said widow, if then my widow, shall take what she brought with her, and the rest shall be divided equally among my children or their representatives. It is also my will that, in case said Betsey Whiting should marry before, said child come of age, then the same distribution of my house hold goods, is to be made. Also, it is my will, that my Real Estate be divided, into ten equal shares, two of which shall belong to my daughter Louisa Whiting and one to each of my other Children. I hereby constitute and appoint Nathan Whiting my son, Executor of this Will: and that he take Mr. Thomas Russell as his Counsellor in his said trust or administration~

In testimony of all which I hereto set my name and seal at Plymouth this fourteenth day of October, One thousand eight hundred and twenty three.

Signed, sealed & declared                                                                                                 Nathan Whiting                                (seal)

to be his last will before

                Z. Bartlett

                Henry Swift

                Polly Howland

 

Plymouth October 14. 1823. I Betsey Whiting, in token that I consent to the provisions of the within will of my husband Nathan Whiting and will be content therewith, in case I survive him– do hereto set my name.                                                                                        Betsey Whiting

                Z. Bartlett

 

Presented for probate on 15 Dec. 1823 by Nathan Whiting, the Executor therein named, and proved by Zacheus Bartlett, one of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Nathan Whiting, the before named Executor.

 

Caleb Morton and Caleb Finney, yeoman, and Elkanah Finney, Merchant, all of Plymouth, were appointed to appraise the estate of Nathan Whiting, late of Plymouth, yeoman, on 15 Dec. 1823. The Inventory of the estate of Nathan Whiting, dated 16 Jan. 1824, totaled $2897.00, including his homestead house, barn and woodhouse valued at $2000. Nathan Whiting, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 19 Jan. 1824.

 

Nathan Whiting, the Executor, notified the court that the personal estate of the decease is insufficient by $500 to pay all his just debts and incidental charges, and petitioned for a license to sell part of the Real Estate of the deceased. License granted on 19 Jan. 1824.

 

Stephen Doten, Thomas Morton Jr., Yeomen, and Lemuel Leach, Mariner, all of Plymouth, and all Freeholders, were appointed to set off one third part of the real estate of Nathan Whiting, late of Plymo., to his widow Betsey Whiting as her dower in the real estate for her use during her natural life, and to divide the rest among his children Nathan, Adoniram, Levi, Stephen, Hannah, Esther, Louise, Betsey, the wife of Seth Finney Jun., and Rebecca Morton, the wife of Henry Morton, agreeably to the last will of the said deceased, on 20 Feb. 1826. The division approved on 19 June 1826.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 57, pp. 475-477, 510-511, from FHL microfilm #0550909, and Vol. 60, p. 453-457.

 

 

Will of Benjamin Whitman of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1802) *

In the Name of God Amen.— I Benjamin Whitman of Bridgwater in the County of Plymouth, Gentleman, being of weak body, but of sound & perfect mind & memory, blessed be almighty God for the same, do make & publish this my last will & testament in manner and form following.

First – I order and direct that my Executor herein after named do sell & dispose of so much of my real estate as shall be sufficient to discharge all just debts, demands, mortgages, judgments and Executions that may be against me at the time of my decease, having regard in the sale, to the situation and accommodation of such real estate, as shall remain –

Also – I Give and bequeath unto my beloved wife Mary, the use and improvement of all my real estate, which shall remain after the payment of my debts as above mentioned, for & during ye time she shall remain my widow, and also the use & improvement of all my neat stock & out door and indoor moveables, so long as she shall remain my widow –

Also – I Give & bequeath unto my Daughter Olive Johnson ten dollars, to be paid her in one year after my decease.–

Also – I Give & bequeath unto my Daughter Molly Hatch, ten dollars to be paid her in one year after my decease.–

Also – I Give & bequeath unto my Daughter Priscilla and my son Benjamin, all the remainder and residue of my estate, that shall remain, after the use & improvement thereof by my wife as aforesaid shall cease, either by her death or marriage as aforesaid, and after the payment of the legacies herein given, to have & to hold to them, their heirs and assigns forever

Also – I do hereby constitute and appoint Nahum Mitchell Esquire to be Executor of this my last will & testament

                In Testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand & seal this twenty sixth day of October in the year of our Lord – one thousand, eight hundred & two

Signed Sealed, Published & De-                                                                                       Benja. Whitman                                (seal)

clared by ye above named Benja-

min Whitman to be his last will

& testament in ye presence of us &

in ye presence of ye testator & each

other subscribed by us as wit-

nesses –                 Levi Washburn

                                Asa Mitchell

                                Lucy Orcutt

 

Presented for probate on 18 Nov. 1802 by Nahum Mitchell Esqr., the Executor therein named, and proved by Levi Washburn and Asa Mitchell, two of the witnesses.

 

Ezra Kingman & Levi Washburn, Gentlemen, and Jos. Whitman, yeoman, all of Bridgwater, were appointed to appraise the estate of Benjamin Whitman, late of Bridgwater, Gent., on 7 Feb. 1803. The Inventory, dated 30 Mar. 1803, totaled $1906.06, his real estate holdings totaled $1802.90. Nahum Mitchell, Esqr., the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 16 Apr. 1803, and he notified the court that the estate was insolvent on 15 Apr. 1803.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 38, pp. 200-201, 314, from FHL microfilm #0550720.

 

 

Will of Content Whitman of Pembroke, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1799) *

        In the Name of God Amen. The Seventeenth day of February A.D. 1799. I Content Whitman of Pembroke, in the county of Plymouth, Tailor, being of sound mind & remembrance, do make & ordain this my last will & testament, in manner & form following. Principally and first of all, I Give & recommend my soul to God that gave it, my body to the earth to be buried in decent & christian burial at the discretion of my Executors hereafter named; and as touching such worldly estate wherewith it hath pleased God to bless me in this life, I do demise & dispose of in the following manner & form..

        Item. I Give & bequeath unto my Son in law, Oakes Whitman, the one half of the house where he now lives, and all that land which lies on the south side of the high way estimated at thirty acres; and also, one half of the cedar swamp which I now own; and one quarter of a Pew which I own in the meeting house; and also, one maple Desk; and my will is, that my cousin Sarah Hanks, if she lives to be old or sick, be provided for by said Oakes Whitman, one half of the time, so long as she lives, and he to procure one pair of Grave Stones for his Father William Whitman deceased.—

I Give & bequeath unto my daughter in law Chloe Berce ye wife of Jacob Berce junr. the house wherein I now live, together with all my other land not given to my said son Oakes, & also, all the houshold furniture which may be left at the time of my decease; and the one half of the aforesaid cedar swamp & quarter of the Pew in the meeting house, she also to take care of said Sarah Hanks if old or sick, one half of the time, so long as she lives and to procure one pair of Grave Stones, to be set up at my Grave, after my decease, and

        Lastly—I do appoint my said son in law Oakes Whitman & Jacob Berce junr. to be Executors of this my last will & testament, they paying all my just debts & funeral charges; and this I do declare to be my last will, revoking all others heretofore made or subscribed by me. In witness whereof, I do hereunto set my hand & Seal the day and year first above written

Signed, Sealed, Pronounced, and                                                                                                     her

declared by the said Content Whit-                                                                                  Content   X   Whitman       (seal)

man, to be her last will & testa-                                                                                                       mark

ment, in presence of us –

                John Oldham

                William White

                Benja. Parris

 

        Be it known to all men, by these presents, that I Content Whitman, of Pembroke, have made & declared my last will & testament in writing, bearing date the seventeenth day of February A.D. 1799.

I the said Content Whitman by this present Codicil, do ratify and confirm my said last will & testament, excepting one feather Bed which feather bed was my mothers, which I give and bequeath unto Elisabeth Hanks, widow of Joseph Hanks deceased, and my personal estate not disposed of, to my daughter in law Chloe Berce, and as to the several legacies given in my said will, be to them & their heirs & assigns forever; and my will & meaning is, that this Codicil be adjudged & considered to be part of my said last will and testament, and that all things herein mentioned & contained be faithfully & truly performed, as if the same were so declared and Set down in my sd last will & testament. Witness my hand & seal this eighteenth day of February 1799 ~                                                                                                                                                                                                                                      her

Signed, Sealed & declared by the said                                                                            Content   X   Whitman        (seal)

Content Whitman as her last will &                                                                                                 mark

testament, in presence of us –

                John Oldham

                William White

                Benja. Parris

 

The last will & testament of Content Whitman of Pembroke, widow, was presented for probate on 3 June 1799 by Oakes Whitman & Jacob Bearce junr., the Executors therein named, and proved by John Oldham, William White, & Benja. Parris, all the witnesses.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 37, p. 51-52, from FHL microfilm #0550719.

 

 

Will and Codicil of Eleazer Whitman of East Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1837) *

Know all men, that I Eleazer Whitman of East Bridgewater in the County of Plymouth, being old and infirm and considering my great and last change now near at hand, do make this my last Will and Testament of all the Estate with which I have been entrusted, not before by me Conveyed by deed or other wise, in manner and form as follows.

1st I Consign my Body to the dust to be decently intered according to the direction of my Executor and Commend my spirit to him from whom it proceeded hoping through the atonement of Our Lord and Savour Jesus Christ for a glorious resurrection and a final reunion of Soul and Body.

        2d. For the purpose of extending the knowledge of the Gospel among the destitute in this and foreign lands, – I give and bequeath unto the American Board of Commissioners for foreign Missions the avails of a lot of land I purchased of Isaac Whitman as will appear by his Deed to me under date of March 21, 1814, under the following Conditions and restrictions, My Executor hereafter named in his discretion, is directed to Convert the said lot into money by sale thereof and may pass deeds Conveying the same, in which case the nett proceeds and by him to be funded in some suitable stock and he to give the said Board authority to draw therefrom the sum of forty Dollars per year untill the said fund shall be exhausted, or he may raise the said sum of forty dollars per year from off the said land, by taking off Timber and wood and pay the same annually into the funds of said Board, in which case their receipt from year to year shall be his discharge.

3d. All the rest and residue of my Estate both Real and Personal, my Will is, shall be equally divided to and among my Children or those who may at the time of my decease legally represent them, Viz. My Daughter Mary Noyes shall be entitled to one share, or her Children in case I should outlive her shall be entitled to the same share, My daughter Hannah Noyes – one share, – The Children of my deceased Son Asa,– one Share – My Son Daniel or his representation one Share, – my Son Eleazer – or his representative one share – and my Daughter Abigail, one Share

        4th. And I hereby appoint my Nephew Jared Whitman to be the sole Executor of this my last will and Testament hereby revoking all former Wills by me made.

        In Witness of all which I have hereunto set my hand and Seal this twentieth day of October in the year of our Lord One thousand eight hundred and thirty Seven.

                Signed, Sealed and declared                                                                             Eleazer Whitman                             (seal)

by the said Eleazer Whitman to be his last will and Testament in presence of us who at his request and presence have hereunto set our names as Witnesses thereto.

                Asaph Whitmarsh

                James Brown

                Rachel Whitman

 

I Eleazer Whitman, do make and publish this Codicil to my last Will and Testament as follows. In Consideration that I have made other arrangements in furtherance of the Objects named in the Second article of my Said Will, and have desposed of the land therein named I do hereby revoke my Said Will, so far as respects the said second article and no further.

        In Witness Whereof I have hereunto Set my hand and Seal this Seventh day of February in the year of our Lord One thousand eight hundred and forty two.

                                                                                                                                                Elezer Whitman                                (seal)

        Signed Sealed, published and declared by the above named Eleazer Whitman as a Codicil to be annexed to his said last Will, in presence of us who at his request and in his presence have hereunto Set our hands as Witnesses.

                Hugh Orr.

                David Gurney

                Henry Gurney

 

Presented for probate on the first Tuesday of Apr. 1847 by Jared Whitman, the Executor therein named, the Will proved by Asaph Whitmarsh and James Brown, two of the witnesses, and the Codicil proved by Hugh Orr and David Gurney, two of the witnesses. Letters Testamentary were granted to Jared Whitman, the Executor therein named.

 

Jared Whitman, of Abington, was appointed as Executor of the last Will and Testament of Eleazer Whitman, late of Abington, Gentleman, on 6 Apr. 1847, with Nathaniel N. Dyer and Abraham Holmes, both of Abington, as sureties.

Ebenezer Porter of Abington, and David Brown and Asaph Whitmarsh, both of East Bridgewater, were appointed to appraise the estate of Eleazer Whitman, late of East Bridgewater, on 7 Dec. 1846.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Eleazer Whitman, late of East Bridgewater, Gentleman, was appraised on 27 Apr. 1847, consisted of only a 25 acre lot of improved and wood land in East Bridgewater valued at $1000. Jared Whitman, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 8 June 1847.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 89, pp. 113-116, 244, from FHL microfilm #0555639, and Vol. 2H, p. 115.

 

 

Abstract of the Will of Ephraim Whitman of Abington, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1836) *

The Will of Ephraim Whitman of Abington, yeoman, dated 12 July 1836, mentioned:

To daughter Olive Nash one undivided half part of my land and buildings thereon standing and orchard, being part of the homestead I now occupy.

To son Jared Whitman one undivided half of the orchard, the remainder of certain lands, and $500 to be paid out of my real estate not disposed of.

To daughter Clarissa Alden a lot of woodland.

To grandson Ephraim Whitman Gurney $500 when he reaches 21 years of age.

To granddaughter Hannah Nash $100.

To each of my other grandchildren not above named $25.

To such benevolent Society or Societies whose object is the extension of Christ’s Kingdom on Earth, $500.

My library and household furniture to be equally divided between daughters Olive Nash and Clarissa Alden. My desk, set of Scott’s Family Bible, farming tools, and wearing apparel to son Jared Whitman.

The rest & residue of my Real & Personal Estate to be sold by my Executor, and all my debts to be paid.

Son Jared Whitman to be the executor.

Witnesses:                                                                                                                             Ephraim Whitman                           (seal)

Jacob Fullarton

Daniel M. Fullerton

Jacob Fullerton

 

Presented for probate on the first Tuesday of March 1839 by Jared Whitman, the Executor, and proved by Daniel M. Fullerton and Jacob Fullerton, two of the witnesses.

 

* Abstracted by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 81, p. 89-90, from FHL microfilm #0555266.

 

 

Will of Noah Whitman of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1821) *

        Be it remembered that I Noah Whitman, considering the uncertainty of this mortal life, & being of sound & perfect mind & memory blessed be almighty God for the same do make & publish this my last Will & Testament in manner & form following—

First, I will that all my just debts, & funeral charges, be paid & discharged by my Executor hereinafter named—

2d I give & bequeath to my beloved wife Zilpha, the use & Improvement during her natural life, The following real Estate (viz) my part of the homestead with the building, also one half of the meetings of the river lot so called, & one half the lot formerly owned by John Mitchell lying on the South Brook, also one half of a piece of land called the South brook pasture lying on the north side of Sylvanus Pratts land, one third of a piece of land called the Potash lying between Joseph Hoopers land & land owned by Oliver Washburn, also the whole of a lot of Cedar Swamp lying in Hanson in the seventh great Lot that fell to me by my Father that he bought of Jane Johnson with a right cut timber on the same sufficient to repair her fences & buildings, also five acres of wood land called the Robert Perkins lot on the south side of the road leading to Cornelius Pratt’s to be sett off at the west-end of the lot. Also my half of the live stock & farming utensils on my farm. Also the use of my horse & chaise to ride, a seat in my pew No.12 in the meeting house, & my Clock, my large Bible in three volumes & one third of all my other books. Also one half the remainder of my in door moveables, to dispose of as she pleases.

3d. I give to my son Ebenezer Whitman one half of a twenty Acre lot of land adjoining Oliver Allens land, & the whole of the lot adjoining on the North of the above twenty acres, & between Benjamin Snells & Joseph Hoopers land, also one third of a lot of land between Joseph Hoopers & land formerly owned by Oliver Washburn also a piece of Meadow & Upland lying in the East Parish of Bridgewater which I bought of Nathaniel Hayward, Elijah Hayward & Martin Paris, also a lot of Cedar Swamp in Hanson in the sixth great lot, which I bought of Deborah Randall & others, also one eighth part of a lot of land, adjoining Jacob Leonard Benj Leonard, Eleazer Alden Cornelius Pratt & Abiel Richmonds lands, & one half of my Pew in the meeting house No 12.  4th  I give to my Son Noah Whitman a lot of Cedar Swamp lying in the little cedar swamp, so called that Father bought of Ebenezer Snow, adjoining Hezekiah Hayward & Joseph Bassetts swamp, also one other piece lying in the same swamp and was formerly owned by Francis Perkins & adjoined the said Joseph Bassetts swamp, also one half of a lot of Cedar Swamp in Hanson in the sixth great lot which I bought of Samuel & Elijah Randall, and one fourth part of a lot of land adjoining Jacob Leonard Benjamin Leonard Eleazer Alden Cornelius Pratt & Abiel Richmonds lands.

5th. I give to my son Daniel Whitman one half of a twenty acre lot of land adjoining Oliver Allens Land, also a piece of meadow & wood land on the north east side of Satucket river in the East Parish with a small piece joining it on the west side of the river by the bridge, also one lot of cedar swamp in Hanson in the seventh great lot that I bought of Jabez Newton lying on the Indian way also one half of a lot of cedar swamp in Hanson in the Sixth great lot which I bought of Samuel & Elijah Randall, also one half of a 20 acre lot called the south brook pasture also one third part of a lot of land lying between Joseph Hoopers & land formerly owned by Oliver Washburn also one eighth part of a lot of land adjoining Jacob Leonard, Benjamin Leonard Eleazer Alden Cornelius Pratt & Abiel Richmond – Also one half of my Pew No 12, in the meeting house – Also all the real estate lands & buildings which I have given my wife to use & improve, during her life, he to take possession after her decease (excepting the five acre lot of wood which I bought of Robert Perkins) and also her half of the live stock, farming utensils, the Clock and the large Bible in three large volumes after her deceased – Also all my notes and Book accounts I give to my son Daniel excepting such notes as I may leave against any of my children which I hereby direct him to give up without being by them paid, provided that they do not bring any account against my estate, I also direct him to pay all my just debts & Funeral charges, from the estate which I have given to him, and I do also constitute & appoint my son Daniel my sole Executor on this my last will & testament.

6th  I give to my four grandchildren Davis Hayward, Lysander Hayward, Sophrona Hayward & Barzilla Hayward to be equally divided between them a lot of wood land called the ten acre lot adjoining land owned by Johnathan Leonard Heirs & the Besse Farm so called, Also my Pew in the Gallery of the meeting house.

7th I give to my Daughter Lydia Washburn my half of an undivided lot of land which I bought with Robert Wade of Hezekiah Hayward lying at sandy Hill so called, also one lot of Cedar Swamp in Hanson in the seventh great lot that I bought of Abigail Standish, also one other lot of Cedar Swamp in the seventh great lot aforesaid which my Father bought of Hannah Little & another small lot adjoining the last lot which fell to my Father by heirship.  8th I give to my daughter Sarah Brown one quarter of a lot adjoining Jacob Leonard & others as above named.  9th  I give to my daughter Betsey Keith one quarter of a lot of land adjoining Jacob Leonard & others as above.  I hereby give one half of my in door moveables not before disposed of to be equally divided between all my children.

In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand & seal the fourteenth day of March One Thousand eight hundred & twenty one.    Signed, sealed & declared to be his last will & testament in presence of us the subscribers.                                                                                Noah Whitman                  (seal)

        Daniel Mitchel

        Sylvanus Pratt

        Sears Washburn

 

Plymouth Ss Court of Probate June 3d 1823. Be it known that the foregoing Instrument purporting to be the last will & testament of Noah Whitman late of Bridgewater in said County Gentleman deceased, being presented to me for Probate and having examined two of subscribing wittnesses thereto and no objection being offered to the Probate thereof I decree that said Instrument be allowed as the last Will & Testament of the said Noah Whitman and the same is approved as such accordingly.

                                                                                                                                                Wilkes Wood  J. Probate

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 57, p. 121-124, from FHL microfilm #0550909.

 

 

Will of Peter Whitman of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1794) *

In The Name of God Amen.—I Peter Whitman of Bridgwater in the County of Plymouth & Comonwealth of Massachusetts, Gentleman, being of a sound & disposing mind, do make this my last will & testament. And in the first place, I recommend my soul into the hands of God who gave it, and my body, I recommend to the earth from whence it was taken, to be buried, with decent christian burial, at the discretion of my Executor, trusting through the merits of a redeemer, that that, which shall be sown a corruptible shall be raised a glorious & incorruptible body. And with respect to my worldly goods & estate, I dispose of the same in manner following—vizt.—

Imprimis.—I Give and bequeath unto my beloved wife, Sarah Whitman, the whole of my personal estate, after the payment of debts & settlement of my estate; also my indented Servant Cesar Stevens, and also the whole improvement of my real estate untill such time as my son Asa Whitman shall, if he shall live, arrive to the age of twenty one years, and after that period, the improvement of one third part of my said real estate.—The above bequests are upon this condition, that my said wife shall remain my widow, and shall out of said personal estate & improvement of my real estate, as above specified, settle my estate, pay out the legacies hereafter specified, and shall expend so much as may be necessary to bring up my children.

Item.—I Give and bequeath unto my son Asa Whitman, all my real estate, to come into the possession & improvement of two thirds thereof when he shall arrive to the age of twenty one years, and to come into possession of the remaining third, whenever my said wife’s interest therein shall become extinct, by death or marriage, provided either shall take place, after he shall arrive to the age of twenty one years, and if either shall take place before he shall arrive to the age of twenty one years, then he shall at said age of twenty one years, come into possession of my whole real estate —

Item—I Give and bequeath unto my Daughter Jemima Whitman, the sum of Thirty Pounds, to be paid her within one year after my decease.

Item—I Give and bequeath to my Daughter Susanna Kingman wife of Capt Ezra Kingman Twenty Shillings in addition to what she has already received, to be paid her, within one year after my decease.—

Item—I Give & bequeath unto my Daughter Dolly Whitman Twenty Pounds, to be paid in money or houshold furniture, when she shall arrive to the age of Eighteen years

Item.—I Give & bequeath unto my Daughter Nancy Whitman Twenty Pounds, to be paid in money or houshold furniture, when she shall arrive to the age of Eighteen years.

Item—I Give & bequeath unto my Daughter Sally Whitman Twenty Pounds, to be paid in money or houshold furniture, when she shall arrive to the age of Eighteen years.

Item—I Give and bequeath unto my Daughter Christiana Whitman Twenty Pounds, to be paid in money or houshold furniture, when she shall arrive to the age of Eighteen years—

And, I do hereby constitute and appoint my beloved wife Sarah Whitman, sole Executrix, to this my last will & testament—Ratifying & confirming this to be my last will & testament.—In Testimony whereof I hereunto set my hand and seal, the fourth day of April in the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred & ninety four

NB—In the fifth line of the first bequest Asa Whitman interlined.—

Signed, Sealed, Published & Declared

by ye sd Peter Whitman, to be his last                                                                                              Peter Whitman                 (seal)

will & testament, in presence of us

                John Whitman

                Seth A. Whitman

                Beza Hayward

 

Presented for probate on 1 Feb. 1802 by Sarah Whitman, the Executrix therein named, and proved by John Whitman & Seth A. Whitman, two of the witnesses.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 38, p. 13-14, from FHL microfilm #0550720.

 

 

Will of Thomas Whitman of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Massachusetts Bay (1785) *

1785 – In the Name of God Amen – The twenty ninth day of June 1785 I Thomas Whitman of Bridgwater in the county of Plymouth in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, yeoman, being advanced in years, and knowing it is appointed for all men once to die, do make and ordain this my Last will and testament; that is to say, principally & first of all, I Give & recommend my soul into the hands of God that Gave it, and my body I recommend to the Earth to be buried in decent Christian burial at the discretion of my executor, nothing doubting but at the General resurrection I shall recieve the same again by the mighty power of God, and as touching such worldly Estate wherewith it hath pleased God to bless me in this Life, I Give demise and dispose of the same in the following manner and form ~

Imprimis – I Give and bequeath to Rebeccah my beloved wife Twenty Shillings, relying and depending upon the fulfilment of the contract she and I made before marriage

Item – I Give and bequeath to my Son Simeon Whitman one third part of my Pew upon the floor in the meeting House in the east precinct in said Bridgwater, and twelve pounds to be paid him four pounds by my Son Peter, four pounds by my Grandson Seth Allen Whitman and four pounds by my Grandson Nathan Whitman to be paid in twelve months after my decease, this Gift to my Son his Heirs or assigns ~

Item – I Give and bequeath to my Son Peter Whitman one half of my corn mill and Quarter part of my Saw mill, and one half of the priviledges of the Corn mill, and one quarter part of the priviledges of the Saw mill, which is three eighths of the Dam to maintain, and the use of three eighths of the water, always allowing to the Corn mill the whole of the water and command thereof when needed for that mill and a third part of my Pew in the east meeting House, to him, his Heirs & assigns, he paying to my Son Simeon four pounds in twelve months after my decease.~

Item – I Give and bequeath to my Son Benjamin one quarter part of my saw mill, and one quarter of the priviledges thereto belonging, which is one eighth part of the dam to maintain & one eighth part of the water to improve when there is a full supply of water for both mills, always reserving the command of the water to the corn mill when there is not a supply for both, to his Heirs and assigns

Item – I Give and bequeath to my Grand Children, the Children of my Son Nathan Whitman as followeth– vizt– to Seth Allen Whitman one quarter part of the saw mill and the priviledges thereto belonging, that is one eight part of the dam to maintain, & one eighth part of the stream to improve when there is a supply of water for both mills always reserving the command to the corn mill when there is not, to him his Heirs and assigns, he paying to my Son Simeon four pounds & to my beloved wife twenty shillings at my decease or within twelve months, and to Nathan Whitman I Give the other quarter of the saw mill & the priviledges thereto belonging, which is one eighth part of the dam &c, one eighth part of the dam to maintain, and one eighth part of the Stream to improve when there is a supply of water for both mills, alway reserving the water for the corn mill when there is not, to him his Heirs and assigns, he paying to Rebecca his Sister five shillings and to Sela his Sister five shillings in twelve months after my decease; and I Give Rebecca Whitman five shillings, and I Give Sela Whitman five shillings both of them to be paid by their Brother in twelve months after my decease.~

Item – Give and bequeath to my Son Amos Whitman the one quarter part of my corn mill and the priviledges as above described to his Heirs and assigns

Item – I Give and bequeath to my Grand Children, the Children of my Daughter Jemima Keith deceased as followeth vizt– to Levi five shillings to Zenas five shillings and to Molly five shillings to be paid them by my Executor hereafter named ~

Item – I Give and bequeath to my son William Whitman the one quarter part of my Corn mill, and the priviledges thereto belonging in the same manner as described to my Son Peter, and one third part of my Pew as described to the Others, to him & his Heirs & assigns.~

   And I do further Give and bequeath to my five sons Simeon, Peter, Benjamin, Amos & William all my Personal Estate to be equally divided between them after the abovesaid Legacies not provided for & just debts & funeral charges are paid &c – and Least that my Personal Estate at my decease should be insufficient to pay the Legacies & just debts my will and pleasure is that my sons & Grandsons shall pay the remainder of my debts in equal proportion to what they own of said mills and I do hereby Constitute, appoint & ordain my Son Benjamin Whitman above named to be the Sole Executor of this my Last will & testament.~

Signed, Sealed, Published, Pronounced and

delivered by the said Thomas Whitman as                                                                     Thomas Whitman                             (said)

his Last will & testament in the presence of

us the Subscribers. ~

                                John Whitman junr

                                Elisha Mitchell

                                James Whitman

 

Presented for probate on 2 Feb. 1789 by Benjamin Whitman, the Executor therein named, and proved by John Whitman junr. and James Whitman, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Benjamin Whitman, the before named Executor.

 

Benjamin Whitman, Executor of the Last will & testament of Thomas Whitman Late of Bridgewater, Gentm, decêd, notified the court that the estate was insolvent to pay all the debts on 4 May 1789.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Deacon Thomas Whitman, late of Bridgwater, was appraised on 2 Mar. 1789 by Elisha Mitchell, John Whitman junr and Levi Washburn, and totaled £292.12.4, the corn mill valued at £150, and the saw mill valued at £100. Benjamin Whitman, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 7 Dec. 1789. Elisha Mitchell esqr, and Robert Orr, esqr, both of Bridgwater, were appointed to examine the claims of the creditors against the estate, the one big claim being owed to William Whitman for £375.16.3.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 30, p. 512-514, from FHL microfilm #0550716, and Vol. 31, pp. 6, 91-93.

 

 

Will of John Whitton of Plympton, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1757) *

                                                In the Name of God Amen.

The tenth day of June, in the year one thousand, seven hundred and fiftyseven I John Whitton of Plimton in the county of Plimouth in New England yeoman, labouring under infirmity of body, but of perfect mind and memory thanks be to God therefor, & knowing that all men must die, do make & ordain this my last will & testament, that is to say, principally, first of all, I give & recomend my soul into the hands of God that gave it & my body to the earth to be buried in decent christian burial at the discretion of my executor hereafter named. And as touching such worldly estate wherewith it hath pleased God to bless me with in this life (after my just debts are paid) I give & bequeath the same real & personal in possession or reversion as followeth. ~

My will is that all my just debts be paid by my executor here after named, as soon as may be. ~

Item. I give & bequeath to my beloved wife Bethiah Whitton the improvement of all my estate real & personal so long as she remains my wido.

Item. At my wife,s decease I give & bequeath to my son Azariah Whiton & to his heirs & assigns two acres of meadow which I bought of John Sturtevant by deed bearing date the 15th. day of June 1737. Also the one half of my upland & swampy land containing about three acres which I bought of Eleazer Rickard by deed bearing date the 13th. day of July 1734. ~

Item. At my wife,s decease I give & bequeath to my son Alpheus Whitton & to his heirs & assigns, one half of my upland & swampy land, containg about three acres which I bought of Eleazer Rickard by deed bearing date the 13th. day of July 1734. also the one half of that part of the sheepfold or comon land so called which I have within fence.~

Item. I give & bequeath to my two grandchildren Isaac & Zacheus Whitton children of my son Zacheus Whitton decd, thirty shillings each to be paid by my executor within two years after my decease.

Item. I give & bequeath to my daughter Alice Dotey wife of Ellis Doten three pounds, to be paid by my executor within three years after my decease.

Item. I give & bequeath to my daughter Jedidah Whitton three pounds, to be paid by my execr. within two years after my decease, also my will is that my son Azariah Whiten shall keep a cow for my sd. daughter winter & summer, so long as she lives single. ~

Item. I give & bequeath to my daughter Bethiah Jackson wife of Abraham Jackson three pounds, to be paid by my execr. within two years after my decease.

Furthermore, I give & bequeath to my son Azariah Whitton & to his heirs & assigns all my estate both real & personal in possession or reversion which I have not disposed off in this present will. I do likewise constitute make & ordain my son Azariah Whitton sole execr. of this my last will And testament utterly disallow & disanul all & every other & former testaments or wills by me made, ratyfying & confirming this & no other to be my last will & testament. In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand & seal the day & year abovementd.

Signed, sealed, pronounced &                                                                                          John Whiten                      (seal)

declared by the sd. John Whiten

as his last will & testament

in presence of.                      Edward Stephens, Lemuel Harlow,

                                                                Rowland Hammond.

 

Presented for probate on 23 May 1766 by Azariah Witon the Executor therein named, and proved by Edward Stephens, one of the witnesses thereto subscribed, who made oath that he saw the said testator sign, seal & heard him declare the said instrument to be his last will & testament & that he with Lemuel Harlow (since decd.) & Rowland Hammond (now sick) subscribed their names as witnesses to the execution thereof in said testator,s presence. Letters of Administration were granted to Azariah Witon, the Executor, with Samuel Lucas and Cornelius Donham, both of Plimton, as sureties.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 19, p. 367-369, from FHL microfilm #0550711.

 

 

Will of Oliver Willcox of Batavia, Genesee County, New York (1831) *

The last Will and Testament of Oliver Willcox, of Batavia in the County of Genesee, and State of New York.

                                                                                                                                I, Oliver Willcox, considering the uncertainty of mortal life, and being of sound mind and memory, do make and publish this my last Will and Testament, in manner and form following (that is to Say.)  First, I Will, and bequeath, and devise, all my Estate both real and personal, (after paying my just Debts and funeral Expenses,) to my beloved Children in Equal Shares & proportions as follows. First I will and bequeath, and devise, one fourth part of all my real and personal estate, after payment of debts and funeral expenses, as aforesaid to my beloved Daughter Jane E. Tisdale. Second I will bequeath and devise one other fourth part of all my real and personal estate (after paying my just debts and funeral Expenses as aforesaid) to my beloved Son Lucian Willcox. Third, I will, and bequeath, and devise, one other fourth part of all my real and personal Estate (after paying my just debts and funeral expenses,) to my beloved Daughter Livinia Willcox. Fourthly I will devise and bequeath, the remaining fourth part of all my real and personal estate (after paying my debts and funeral Expenses as aforesaid) to my beloved Daughter Mary Willcox. Lastly I hereby appoint, my Son in law Henry Tisdale, and my Son Lucian Willcox Executors of this my last will and testament and hereby authorize my said Executors, or either of them who shall take upon himself the trust reposed in him to Sell my Estate both real and personal and make divisions, and distributions according to this my last will and testament, hereby revoking all former wills by me made.

                In witness whereof I have hereunto Set my hand and Seal the nineteenth day of September in the year of our Lord one thousand Eight hundred and thirty one.

Signed Sealed published and declared by the }             

above named Oliver Willcox to be his            }                                                              Oliver Willcox                                   (seal)

last will and testament in presence                   }

of us who have hereunto Subscribed our        }

names as witnesses in the presence of             }

the testator.

                Moses Taggard of Batavia in the County of Genesee

                Truman H. Woodruff of Batavia in the County of Genesee

                Walter Williams Batavia in the County of Genesee

 

Presented for probate on 14 Nov. 1831 before Ebenezer Mix Esquire Surrogate of our Said County of Genesee, and proved by Moses Taggart, Walter Williams, and Truman H. Woodruff on 14 Nov. 1831.

 

Letters Testamentary on the last will and testament of Oliver Wilcox, late of Batavia, were granted to Henry Tisdale, an executor named therein, Lucian Wilcox, likewise named an executor, having renounced the execution thereof, on 26 Dec. 1831.

 

Richard Fleming was appointed as guardian of Levinia Willcox, a minor child of Oliver Willcox, deceased, on 28 Jan. 1832.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Genesee County Probate Wills Vol. 2, p. 193-197, from FHL microfilm #0810480, Letters of Testamentary Administration Vol. 2, p. 251-253, from FHL microfilm #0811205, and Letters of Guardianship Vol. 2, p. 19, from FHL microfilm #0811155.

 

 

Will of William Willet, of Westchester, Province of New York (1733) *

In the Name of God Amen the twentieth day of April in the Sixth Year of the Reign of our Sovereign Lord King George the second Annoq Dom. one thousand seven hundred & thirty three I William Willet of the Burrough Town of Westchester in the County of Westchester and Province of New York Esqr. being sick & weak in body but of sound & disposing mind & Memory Do make this my Last Will and Testament in manner & form following that is to say first & principally I commit my Soul to Almighty God my Creator and my body to the Earth to be decently buried by my Executors, and being Sorry for my Sins do hope to obtain a Joyfull Resurrection & Eternal Salvation through the meritts & for the sake of my ever blessed Saviour and Redeemer Jesus Christ, and touching such Worldly Estate as God in Mercy has bestowed upon me I do hereby devise bequeath and dispose of the same in manner following First I hereby Order my Executors to pay out of my Personal Estate All my Just Debts & funeral charges, Also I hereby give and devise Equally between my Sons William, Isaac, Thomas & Cornelius Willett their heirs & Assigns for ever All my Lands & Meadows with their Appurtenances Situate & being on Long Island in the Province of New York, Also I hereby give & devise Equally between my two Sons Thomas & Cornelius Willett & their heirs & Assigns for ever All my Lands Meadows & priviledges with their Appertenances situate & being in Westchester abovesaid, Also I hereby give & devise to my Son William Willett my riding Horse bridle & saddle, Also I hereby give & devise to my Son Thomas Willett for the use of him his heirs & assigns forever my Negro man called Tony And my Roan horse, Also I hereby give & devise to my Son Cornelius Willett for the use of him his heirs and assigns for ever my Young Negro man Called Ceaser, Also I hereby give and Devise to my beloved Wife Mary in full of her Dower of in & to all or any part of my personal Estate Goods and Chattels for so long time as she shall Live & no Longer my two Negro Women Jenny and Hagar and my Negro Girl Lilly and from and & after my Wifes Decease I give and devise my said Negro Women Jenny & Hagar & Girl called Lilly or Such of said Negroes as shall then be Living Equally between my two Daughters Mary Rodman & Anna Jones for the use of them their heirs & assigns for ever, Also I give to my Daughter Anna Jones my Silver Tankard, Also I give to my Daughter Mary Rodman Six Silver Spoons & so much money as shall be equal to the value of my Silver Tankard at eight Shillings an ounce, Also I hereby give to my Friend William Forster to wear in memory of me my black Cloath Coat, Vest and Breeches black Stockings & hatband which I bought for mourning for my Son Gilbert, Also I hereby give & devise to my Son Isaac he paying to my Son Thomas five pounds & to my Son Cornelius other five pounds my watch & chain, Also I hereby give devise equally between my Sons Thomas and Cornelius Willett All my Meat Cattle Sheep and Swine the remainder of my horses and Mares a bed & furniture the remainder of my apparel both woollen & linen all my Grain upon the ground & all my utensils of husbandry for the use of them their heirs & assigns for Ever and also my Negro boy Lewey and the Wheat in Chamber & Corn in the Cribb Except what the Family want, Also I hereby give & devise all the remainder of my personal Estate to be divided equally between my Daughters Mary Rodman & Anna Jones for the use of them their heirs & assigns for ever, Lastly I do hereby nominate & appoint my Sons William Thomas & Cornelius Willett, and William Forster abovesaid to be Executors of this my Last Will & Testament provided that the major part of them that shall be Living from time to time shall have full power to act & Execute my said Will. In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand & Seal the day and year first above written

                                                                                                                                                William Willet                    (seal)

Signed Sealed published pronounced and declared by the said William Willett to be his Last Will and Testament in presence of

Tho. Standard

James Stevenson

Nathaniel Underhill, Ex.

 

Letters of Administration on the Estate of William Willett were granted to Thomas Willett, Cornelius Willett, and William Forster, three of the Executors, with power being reserved unto William Willett, the other Executor, on 4 May 1733.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from New York County Probate, Vol. 12, p. 24-26, copied from original Liber 12, p. 25-27.

 

 

Will of Thomas Willett of Flushing, Queens County, Province of New York (1722) *

In the Name of God Amen I Thomas Willett of Flushing in Queens County on the Island of Nassau Within the Colony of New York Gentleman being Sick and Weak in Body but (Praised be God of sound and perfect mind and Memory Well Knowing the Certainty of Death but uncertainty of the hour of it Approach do make this my Last Will and Testament in manner and form following My Soul I Bequeath to God Who gave it My Body to the Earth from whence it came (to be Christianly Interred at the Discretion of my Executors hereafter Named) in sure hopes of a Reunion of My Soul and Body at the Last Day and of Eternall life and Salvation through the Sole Merrits of my Blessed Redeemer Jesus Christ And as for what Worldly Estate it hath pleased God to Bestow upon me I Give Devise Bequeath and Dispose of the same in Manner following Item I hereby give and Bequeath Expences and all other my Just Debts be by my Executors paid and Satisfyed Item I hereby Give and Bequeath unto my Eldest son William Willett of Westchester besides what I have Already given to him by Deed under my hand and Seal which he shall hereby confirm unto him and his heirs and Assigns one of my Slaves which he shall Make Choice of (Excepting My Negro Man Jack) my Seal Ring my Rideing Horse Sadle and Furniture thereto belonging with my Sword and pistolls Item I Give Devise and Bequeath unto my Second Son Thomas Willett of Flushing Aforesaid and to his Heirs and Assigns all those Lands of what Nature or kind soever in Flushing Aforesaid which I have given to him or which is Mentioned to be given or Conveyed to him formerly by Deed under my hand and Seal And Further I hereby give Devise and Bequeath unto my said Son Thomas and his heirs one Certain Lott of Land Scituate near the Fresh Meadows and Adjoyning to Jeremiah Ganong Containing about Five Acres being the same Land which was Laid out to me with some other Land which was at the same time laid out to Captain Thomas Hicks Deceased And also one peice of Boggy Meadow lying on the Northeast side of a Creek near the House where my Son now lives To have and To hold the same Lands and premisses with every their Appurtenances to him my said Son Thomas Willett And his Heirs and Assigns forever Item I give Devise and Bequeath unto my Son Abraham Willett and to his heirs and Assigns All those Lands of what nature or kind soever in Flushing aforesaid or elsewhere which I have given to him or which is Mentioned to be given or Conveyed to him formerly by Deed unto my hand and Seal And Further I hereby Give Devise and Bequeath unto my said Son Abraham Willett and his heirs one certain Ten Acre Lott of Land Scituate in Flushing Aforesaid on the South side of the Hills near the Great plains and also one patentee Right of Land Which belonged to the place where my said Son Abraham now lives To have and To hold the same Lands and premisses with every their Appurtenances unto him the said Abraham Willett and his heirs and Assigns for ever Item I give Devise and Bequeath unto my Son John Willett and to his heirs and Assigns all those Lands of what Nature or kind soever in Flushing Aforesaid or elsewhere which I have given to him or which is Mentioned to be given or Conveyed to him formerly by Deed under My hand and Seal To have And To hold the same Lands and premisses with every their Appurtenances unto him the said John Willett and his heirs and Assigns forever Item I Give Devise and Bequeath unto My Three Sons last Mentioned to Witt Thomas Abraham and John My Certain Swamp in Flushing called Doughtys Swamp and all my Lands and Salt Meadows on Newtons Neck which Remains yet undisposed of by me Equally to be Divided Amongst them Share and Share alike, in the Dividing Whereof my Will Desire and order is that My Son John shall have for his Share those Two Fifty Acre Lotts of Land known by the Numbers Fifty Nine and Sixty if his Share upon the Devision shall amount to so many acres as the said Two Lotts shall be found to Contain but if not then the overplus is to be Cutt off for my said Two other Sons, and if my said Son Johns said Share shall happen to Amount to more Acres than shall be found Contained in the said two Lotts then his full share shall be made up to him out of the other Lands To have and To hold the same premisses unto them my said three Sons as aforesaid and to their Respective heirs and Assigns in Severalty forever Item I Give Devise and Bequeath unto my said Last Mentioned three Sons Thomas Abraham and John my Two patent Rights of Meadow at Fresh Meadow in Flushing aforesaid called Double patent Rights one of which formerly belonged to my Father Bridges and the other to one Thomas Sauls and also my Meadow Ground lying at Gravesend in Kings County and all other my Lands Rights of Land Tenements and Hereditaments Whatsoever With their Appurtenances and Wheresoever belonging to me at the time of my Decease Equally to be Divided amongst them my said Three Sons Share and Share alike To have And To hold the same Lands and Premisses unto them my said three Sons and to their Heirs and Assigns forever Item I Give to my Son John Willett my Negro Man Slave called Jack Item I give to my Sons Thomas and Abraham each of them one of my Slaves such as they shall Chuse After my Eldest Son William hath as abovesaid made his Choice Item besides a Certain sum of Money which I have Already Secured the payment of to my Youngest Daughter Mary Willett I do hereby order my Executors to pay unto her Twelve pounds New York Money Immediately after my Decease I also hereby give to my said Daughter Mary so much out of my Moveable Estate as Will purchase for her household Stuff to the Value of what my Daughter Elizabeth Stevenson hath Already had of me for that End Item It is my Will and I do hereby give all the Remaining part of My personal Estate of what Nature or kind soever to my three Daughters Sarah Dekey Elizabeth Stevenson and Mary Willett to be Equally Divided amongst them share and share alike and to their Respective Executors and Assigns And I do order that the share of my Daughter Sarah De Key shall be put into the hands of my Son William Willett in trust for her use Lastly I do hereby Nominate and appoint my Four Sons William Willett Thomas Willett Abraham Willett and John Willett or any three of them to be Executors of this my Last Will and Testament hereby Revoking and makeing Void all other Wills Testament and Codicils at any time heretofore by me made or Executed In Witness whereof I have to this my last Will and Testament Written on one Side of Two Sheets of paper put my hand and Seal at Flushing aforesaid this Nineteenth Day of August in the Year of our Lord Seventeen Hundred and Twenty Two

                                                                                                                                                Tho: Willett                        (seal)

Sealed and Delivered by the within named Thomas Willett and also Signed by him and published to be his Last Will and Testament in presence and Sight of us Chosen Witnesses

Isaac Hicks

Rich Power

S Clowes

 

Probated on 11 Oct. 1722, and Letters of Administration were granted to William Willett, Thomas Willett, Abraham Willett, and John Willett, the Executors.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from New York County Probate, Vol. 9, p. 398-401, copied from original Liber 9, p. 336-338.

 

 

Will of Thomas Willett of Flushing, Queens County, Province of New York (1782) *

In the Name of God, Amen, I Thomas Willett of Flushing in Queens County and Province of New York Esquire, being sick, but of sound mind and memory, do make this my last Will and Testament in manner following, First I direct that all my just Debts and Funeral Charges be paid as soon as conveniently can be, Secondly I give and devise all my Lands and Houses in Flushing aforesaid and all my Real Estate wheresoever lying and being to my three Sisters Ellenor Rodman, Susanna Cornell and Mary Willett their Heirs and assigns for ever, to be equally divided between them share and share alike. Thirdly I give all my Horses, Cows and Stock of every kind, all my Farming Utensials and personal Estate of every kind whatsoever to my said three Sisters Ellenor Susannna and Mary to each of them one equal third part thereof. Fourthly It is my Will that my Brother Edward Willett shall live with his Sisters and have his maintenance with them so long as he shall an Adequate care of them, and of the Labour and management of the Farm, Lastly I constitute and appoint my Sisters Ellenor Rodman and Susanna Cornell and Mary Willett, Executrixes of this my last Will and Testament

In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my Hand and Seal, this Seventh day of September in the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and Eighty two

                                                                                                                                                Thos. Willett                                       (seal)

Signed Sealed published and pronounced by the Testator (the words and Mary Willett, first wrote between the fourth and fifth Lines from the Bottom) in the presence of us who at his request and in the presence of each other subscribe our names as Witnesses

David Colden Thos. Willett Amos Fowler

 

Probated on 9 Oct. 1782, and proved by David Colden Esquire, one of the witnesses.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from New York County Probate, Vol. 35, p. 487-488, copied from original Liber 35, p. 286-287.

 

 

Will of George Williams of West Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1826) *

                In the name of God, Amen. I George Williams of West-Bridgewater in the county of Plymouth, state of Massachusetts, yeoman considering the uncertainty of life, and being of sound & perfect mind and memory, do make & publish this my last Will and Testament, as follows,   First, I give and devise to my grand-son Nahum Williams, his heirs and assigns forever, my Tan yard, containing about one quarter of an acres of land, with the bark house, tan-vats, pump, & so forth, thereto belonging; also six and a half acres of land where the said Nahum’s dwelling-house now stands; also a lot of land called the Packard farm containing about twenty two and a quarter acres, lying to the southward of the said Nahum’s dwelling house.

   Secondly, I give and devise to my grand-son Calvin Williams, his heirs & assigns forever, my homestead farm, excepting the tan yard aforesaid, containing about seventy-two acres of land, lying together with the other lands herein before mentioned, in said West-Bridgewater, on both sides of the road leading westwardly to the dwelling house of Thomas Howard, with all the buildings, excepting as aforesaid, thereon standing; reserving however, to my grand-daughters, Mary Williams and Patty Williams, the right to live and make their home at my dwelling house, so long as they shall remain unmarried.   I give & devise also to my grand-son Calvin Williams, his heirs & assigns forever, all my Meadow land lying in West Meadow; also, eleven acres of wood-land lying in West Meadow woods; out of which I hereby order the said Nahum and the said Calvin, in one year after my decease, to pay in equal portions, that is the said Nahum one half, and the said Calvin the other half, to my grand-daughters, the sum of Six hundred dollars, as follows; to the said Patty Williams the sum of two hundred dollars – to the said Mary Williams the sum of two hundred dollars – and to Mrs. Anna Copeland the sum of two hundred dollars.   And of all the rest & residue of my estate, of whatsoever name or nature, if any there shall be, after my decease, not disposed of, it is my Will that all such be equally divided between my five grand-children above mentioned, to wit, Nahum Williams, Calvin Williams, Anna Copeland, Mary Williams, & Patty Williams.   And I hereby appoint the said Calvin Williams my sole Executor of this my last Will and Testament.   In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this twenty seventh day of April one thousand eight hundred and twenty-six.

Signed, sealed, published

and declared by the above                                                                                                 George Williams                              (seal)

named George Williams

to be his last Will and Testament, in the presence of us, who, at his request and in his presence, have hereunto subscribed our names as witnesses to the same.

                                                                                                                                                Jonathan Snell

                                                                                                                                                Damon Kingman

                                                                                                                                                John E. Howard

 

Presented for probate on 3 July 1827 by Calvin Williams, the Executor therein named, and proved by Damon Kingman and John E. Howard, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Calvin Williams, the before named Executor.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 64, p. 149-151, from FHL microfilm #0555258.

 

 

Will of Josiah Williams of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1793) *

        In the Name of God Amen – on the nineteenth day of December in the year of our Lord Seventeen hundred and ninety three. I, Josiah Williams of Bridgwater in the county of Plymouth & Commonwealth of Massachusetts in New England Gentleman, being advanced in age, and under some infirmity of body, yet through Divine goodness of sound & disposing mind and memory, and calling to mind the frailty & mortality of my body as well as the souls immortality, and the duty & expediency of setting my house in order before death, do now proceed to make & ordain this my last will & testament. and first of all I commend my immortal soul into the hands of that God who gave it, with a humble hope & trust in the merits & intercession of Jesus Christ my Saviour for pardon grace and glory, and my body I commit unto the dust, to be decently buried at the discretion of my Executor hereafter named, nothing doubting but that at the general resurrection of all the dead the same shall be raised again, by the mighty power of almighty God, as I hope to a glorious immortality, and with regard to my worldly Interest which I leave behind, I dispose of it, in the following manner – vizt.

        Imprimis – I Give and bequeath unto my well beloved wife Hannah, the use & improvement of one third part of all my improved Lands and one half the dwelling house wherein I now live, being the westerly part of sd house, saving & excepting the privilege for my two Daughters Hannah & Armelia to live & Cohabit in sd. westerly part of sd house during the term that they may continue to live single. I also give to my sd. wife all my houshold furniture & indoor moveables, saving & excepting such particular articles as are herein after named & otherways disposed of. I also give her two milks Cows & fire wood for one fire to be delivered at the door of sd. dwelling house, and to be cut off suitable for the fire annually during the term that she shall remain my widow & the privilege of a horse to ride to public worship, and at other times occasionally, to be found & provided by my Executor hereafter named. I also give her the use of part of my Barn, being twenty foot in length and ten foot in breadth & at the south east corner of said barn. Also one third part of my Cellar under my dwelling house.

        Item—I Give and bequeath unto my Son George & to his heirs & assigns all my homestead Lands and building saving such part of the improvement as is before mentioned and disposed of, said homestead contains about ninety acres, and lyeth in two pieces, the first is bounded on the easterly side by Land belonging to Nathan Howard Esqr. on the on the southerly side by James Howard junr his Land, and westerly and northerly by the road, the other piece is bounded on the northerly side by Land belonging to widow Silence Dole & on the easterly side by the high way & southerly by sd high way ‘till it comes to David Harvey’s Land & then on the westerly side partly by Harvey’s Land & partly by Lands of Josiah & Seth Lothrop. I also give him & his heirs as aforesaid one other piece of Land containing about Seven acres, which I bought of Samuel Packard lying in Bridgwater aforesaid which is called the pond pasture, and is bounded on the northerly side by Lands of Colo. Edward Howard, on the westerly side by Lands of George Howard junr. & on the southerly & easterly sides by the high way, together with a meadow Lot containing about four acres, lying in west meadow, so called, which I bought of Jonathan Snell bounded northerly by Benjamin Hayward’s meadow, easterly by the brook, southerly by my other Land & westerly by the high-way. Also half a Lot of Cedar Swamp (quantity & quality considered) lying in Easton which I bought of Nathan Kinsley. Also one acre of meadow lying at the south end of my meadow Lot at a place called the maple swamp, also two acres & one quarter more lying at the north end of the same Lot aforesaid. Also the use & improvement of five acres of wood Land being part of a Lot which I bought of Ephraim Fobes, bounded on the northerly side by Lands of Nathan Snell & on the westerly side by Jonathan Snell & to extend southerly & easterly so far as to include & contain said five acres for the purpose & privilege of cutting fire wood for the term of Fifteen years to be computed from the date of this instrument. I also give him my clock & my old Desk so called, together with all my Quick Stock, saving the two Cows which I have given to my wife, and I also give to him the said George, all my farming tools & utensills, together with all the residue of my Estate both real & personal, that is not herein named & otherways disposed of

        Item – I Give and bequeath to my two Sons Perez & Calvin & their heirs & assigns, a tract of Land containing about forty acres, which I bought of Ephraim Fobes, lying in sd. Bridgwater at a place called west meadow, to be equally divided betwixt them, quantity & quality considered, saving & excepting the dwelling house & barn standing thereon, and also the young orchard, which buildings & orchard aforesaid I hereby give wholly to my said Son Perez. I also give to them the said Perez & Calvin & their heirs & assigns, the one half part of a Lot of cedar swamp lying in Easton which I bought of Nathan Kinsley, to be equally divided between them. also three acres & one quarter of meadow lying at a place called the maple swamp, bounded on the southerly side thereof by the acre of meadow which I gave to my Son George, and to extend so far northerly the whole breadth of the Lot as to include & contain the said three acres & one quarter, sd meadow to be equally divided betwixt them. I also give to my said Son Perez the privilege of having one Cow pastured by my Son George the three summer months annually for the term of five years to be computed from the date hereof. I also give him my new desk. I also give to my Son Calvin my best fire arm & sword & cartridge box & bayonet

        Item – I Give and bequeath unto my two Daughters vizt Hannah & Armelia, twenty four pounds value a piece, to be paid to each of them as follows vizt-the Sum of forty Spanish milled Dollars, to be paid to each of them within twelve months after my decease, and also the other sum of forty Dollars a piece to each of them within two years after my decease, to be paid by my Son George my Executor. I also give to      the privilege to live and cohabit in that part of my dwelling house which I have herein given to their mother with the exclusive right for them to live with her during the whole term, that they shall continue to live single. and my will is that my Son George shall provide pasture & forage sufficient to keep them a milk Cow both summer & winter, during the aforesaid term of their single capacity

        Item– I Give & bequeath to my three grand daughters vizt Orra & Susanna & Anna the sum of twenty pounds a piece, to be paid to each of them by my Executor at the several times that they shall each arrive to the age of Eighteen years

        Item– I Give & bequeath to my two Daughters, Martha & Bathsheba the sum of twelve shillings a piece, to be paid to each of them by my Executor, within twelve months, after my decease, this with what, I have heretofore given to them, is considered as there full share of my Estate

        Item – My will is, that my Son George shall have my best beaver hat & great coat, and that all the remainder of my wearing apparell shall be equally divided among my other three sons–viz. Perez, Macey & Calvin

         Item – I Give & bequeath unto my Son Macey (by reason of his non capacity) his whole support and maintenance out of my estate, to be found & provided by my executor at the same dwelling house wherein I now live during the whole term of the natural life of the said Macey. and I hereby order my said Executor to find & provide suitable meat, drink, washing & lodging & wearing apparell for the said Macey fitting for all parts of his body, and all things necessary & convenient for him, both in sickness & health, during the whole term of the natural life of him the said Macey and at the same dwelling house wherein I now live, during said term, as I have given him a large share of my estate for the purpose supporting said Macey

        Lastly – I do hereby nominate & appoint my said Son George to be Sole Executor upon this my last will & testament. and I hereby order and direct him to pay all my just debts & charges & the legacies herein before mentioned, according to the true intent & meaning of this my last will. And I hereby disannul & make utterly void all other wills before made by me hereby ratifying & confirming this to be my last will & testament. In Testimony whereof I have hereunto Set my hand & Seal, the day & year aforesaid. ~

Signed, Sealed, published, pronounced and                                                                  Josiah Williams                                (seal)

declared by the said Josiah Williams, to be

his Last will & testament in presence of

                Edward Howard

                David Harvey

                James Leach

 

Presented for probate on 8 Apr. 1794 by George Williams, the Executor therein named, and proved by David Harvey and James Leach, two of the witnesses, who were the sureties on the bond of George Williams.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 35, p. 27-32, from FHL microfilm #0550718.

 

 

Will of Perez Williams of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1819) *

  In the Name of God amen.– I Perez Williams of Bridgwater in the County of Plymouth Yeoman do make & declare this Instrument to be my last Will & Testament as follows.

        Imprimis I order my funeral Expences Debts & Legacies to be paid by my Executors herein after named & in the Manner herein after directed. –

        Item I give and bequeath to my beloved Wife Mary Williams to her use & disposal forever all my household Furniture (except that part there of herein after given to my Son Josiah) also three Cows of an Average Quality – also one half (quality & number considered) of the Sheep, I now own, or may own at the time of my decease – and the provisions on hand at my decease – said provisions to be used for the support & Benefit of the Family – I also devise to her the said Mary for & during the time of her natural Life, the use & Improvement of one half of my Dwelling house, & of one half of my Garden, with a sufficient privilege in the Barn & other outbuildings – I also devise to her the said Mary for & during said Term, the use and Improvement of one third part of all my other Lands or real Estate (excepting that part of my Lands or Estate herein afterwards devised to my Son Josiah) What I have given to my Wife as aforesaid is in full of her portion, & in full Satisfaction of her Dower or thirds in my Estate. —

        Item I give and bequeath to my Son Josiah Williams to his use & disposal forever two Beds and Bedquilt – one Case of Drawers – one brass Kettle – three Tables – one Chest, Six Chairs – one dozen pewter plates & four pewter dishes – which Articles were brought to me by his Mother (my first Wife) I also give & release to him the said Josiah, all the Debts Which he owes me or may owe me, at the time of my decease – and I hereby direct all the Notes & Securities, that I may hold against him, to be given up to him by my Executors, as well those made by him to my deceased Son Perez – as those made by him to myself – I also give and devise to him the said Josiah, to him his Heirs and assigns forever one half of my Pew in Doctor Reed’s Meeting house – all my right Title & Interest in and to a certain Tract or parcel of Land, situate in the west precinct of said Bridgwater, which was set off to Jonathan Fisk Esqr. on Execution against Caleb Snell & conveyed by said Fisk to Gamaliel Howard & myself, for a more particular description reference to be had to said Fisk’s Deed – also one half of my right in the new Saw Mill, on West Meadow Brook.— also all my right title and Interest in & to a certain Mortgage & the Estates therein mentioned Situate in Vassalborough in the County of Kennebec, which Mortgage was made by Thaddeus Snell to Caleb Snell & by said Caleb assigned & conveyed to Gamaliel Howard & myself by Deed dated the twenty fourth day of March in the Year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and thirteen – to him the said Josiah Williams his Heirs & assigns forever —

        Item I give & bequeath to each of my four Daughters viz Huldah K Williams, Lavina Williams, Hannah F. Williams & Mary L Williams, four hundred Dollars, to be paid to them respectively at the Age of eighteen years by my Executors, & if not then paid with Interest from & after that time – each of my said Daughters to live with my Executors ‘till the Age of eighteen, & to be suported by them – they my said Daughters however contributing their Services thereto in the same manner they now do. —

        Item To enable my Executors to pay my funeral Expences, Debts & Legacies & to execute my Will, I devise to them the following described Estate to be sold by them for that purpose. viz. about forty five Acres & an half of Land situate in said west precinct of Bridgwater – which was the Homestead farm of David Lothrop deceased – Also about five Acres of Woodland lying at a place called Bailey’s Hill – two pieces of Meadow Land at a place called Coaster Kitchen containing about six acres & a quarter being all I own at that place, the abovesaid Lands were with other Lands conveyed to me by David Lothrop deceased by Deed Dated the thirty first day of March in the Year of our Lord eighteen hundred & six, reference to which may be had for a more particular Description – Also all my right, title & Interest in & to a piece of Cedar Swamp in the Town of Easton formerly owned by my Father – And all my right, Title & Interest in & to a Tract of Woodland in said Easton devised to me by Calvin Williams deceased, the said two pieces of Land being all I own in said Easton – excepting & reserving however the use & improvement of one third part, herein before devised to my Wife – and if to facilitate the sale of said Lands she should think proper to relinquish her Interest therein, she shall have the right to claim & receive a just equivalent out of the proceeds of the sale thereof – I further give to my Executors for the purposes aforesaid, all the Debts due me at the time of my decease (excepting the Debt due from sd. Josiah Williams, which I have before directed to be relinquished & if the above Lands & Debts should not be sufficient for the purposes aforesaid, then my live Stock (excepting what is herein before otherwise disposed of) is to be sold by my Executors & appropriated to sd. purposes, if any thing should remain however of the property thus devised to my Executors or of the proceeds thereof, after payment of funeral Expences, Debts, Legacies & charges of settling my Estate my Will is that it go to the use & benefit of my Son Samuel Peirce Williams.—

        Item I give and devise to my said Son Samuel Peirce Williams all the rest & residue of my Estate, whether real, personal or mixed or wherever situated to him his Heirs & Assigns forever —

        Lastly I constitute & appoint my said Wife Mary Williams & my said Son Samuel Peirce Williams Executors of this my last Will & Testament, hereby revoking all others – & if I should decease before my said Son, shall arrive to the Age when he would be qualified by Law to act in said Capacity, in such case, my will is, that my said Wife have the sole Execution of my sd. Will, till he shall be qualified to join with her in said office ~

        In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand & seal this thirteenth day of May in the Year of our Lord, one thousand eight hundred and nineteen.—

Signed sealed published & pronounced by sd. Perez

Williams as & for his last will & Testament in pres-

ence of us who at his request & in his presence & in

the presence of each other have hereunto subscribed

our Names as Witnesses ~                                                                                                 Perez Williams                                     (seal)

        George Williams

        Thomas Howard

        Wm Baylies

 

Presented for probate on 2 Nov. 1819 by Mary Williams, the Executrix therein named, and proved by George Williams and Thomas Howard, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Mary Williams, the before named Executrix.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

Daniel Howard Esq. and Josiah Williams, yeoman, of Bridgwater, were sureties on the bond of Samuel Peirce Williams, yeoman, as executor of the estate of Perez Williams, late of Bridgwater, yeoman, dated 5 Feb. 1821.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 50, p. 392-394, from FHL microfilm #0550906, and Probate Docket #23051.

 

 

Will of Benjamin Willis of Bridgewater, Province of Massachusetts Bay (1696) *

Benjamin Willis of ye Town of Bridgwater in ye County of Plimouth in New England Being Sick and weak but Retaining his perfect Sences and Memory In February last past Desired that we whose names are here under written would take notice that his will is as followeth.

I ye Said Benjamin Willis Do give and Bequeath unto my dearly Beloved Wife All my Estate by her freely to be possessed and Enjoyed to Sell or Improve towards the Bringing up of my Children And her own Maintenance According to her best discretion.

And this above written Will was committed to writing on ye fourteenth day of May 1696 beng ye second day after ye Death of ye abovesd Benjamin Willis by us

                                                                                                                                                Comfort Willis

                                                                                                                                                      his C mark

                                                                                                                                                John Ames junr

                                                                                                                                                Nathanael Ames

Memorand~ Comfort Willis John Ames junr and Nathanael Ames then have hereto Subscribed Testified upon oath in Plimouth ye 16th day of June 1696 Before William Bradford Esqr Judge of probate That they were all of them present with Benjamin Willis above named in ye time of his last Sickness and then heard him Verbally declare what is above Written to be his last will. And that they were desired by him to take notice there of & they Committed ye same to writing as above said.

                                                                                                                                                                Attest Saml Sprague Register

 

Susanna Willis, Relict and Widdow of Benjamin Willis, late of Bridgewater, was granted administration of her husband’s estate on 23 June 1696.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Benjamin Willis, late of Bridgewater, dated 13 May 1696, but not totaled, was appraised by Nicholas Biram, Comfort Willis, and John Field. Susanna Willis, the administratrix, gave her oath to the inventory.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 1, p. 238-239.

 

 

Will of Benjamin Willis Esq., of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1795) *

        In the Name of God amen I Benjamin Willis of Bridgwater in the county of Plymouth in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts Esqr. being infirm in Body but of sound & disposing Mind & Memory calling to Mind the Mortality of my Body do make & ordain this my last Will & Testament in Manner & form as followeth viz I give & recommend my Soul into the Hands of Almighty God who gave it & my Body I recommend to the Earth, to be decently interred at the discretion of my Executor herein after named & my Estate both real & personal (after payment of my just debts & funeral Charges, I give and bequeath in manner following viz.—

1      I give and bequeath to my Son Benjamin Willis & to his Heirs & assigns forever all my Lands with the Buildings thereon & the privileges thereto belonging, except my Lands lying in the Thousand Acres (so called) containing about twelve acres be the same more or less.

2      I give and bequeath to my Daughter Sarah the Wife of Simeon Pratt of Bridgwater aforesaid Gentleman to her & her Heirs & Assigns forever all my Land lying in the Thousand Acres above mentioned and one quarter of the Household Furniture that her Mother brought to me —

3      I give and bequeath to Nathaniel Bradford of Plymouth in the County of Plymouth aforesaid Cordwainer & to his Heirs & assigns the sum of five Pounds Lawful Money and one quarter of the Household Furniture which his Mother brought to me —

4.     I give and bequeath to Lemuel Bradford of Plymouth in the aforesaid County of Plymouth Gentleman the Sum of five Pounds Lawful Money, and one quarter of the Household Furniture which his Mother brought to me to him & to his Heirs and assigns forever —

5      I give and bequeath to my Son Benjamin Willis before named & to his Heirs and assigns forever all the remainder of my Estate whether Real or personal & do hereby constitute & appoint him the said Benjamin sole Executor of this my last will and Testament. In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand & Seal this twenty fifty day of February ADom. one thousand seven hundred and ninety five –

Signed sealed published pronounced and

declared by the said Benjamin Willis as

his last Will and Testament in the presence                                                                   Benja. Willis                       (seal)

of us who in his presence & in the presence

of each other subscribed as Witnesses hereunto

                Jonathan Benson

                Ebenezer Benson

                Oliver Allen

 

Presented for probate on 3 Aug. 1807 by Benjamin Willis, the Executor therein named, and proved by Ebenezer Benson and Oliver Allen, two of the witnesses, Jonathan Benson, the other witness, being deceased.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 42, p. 146-147, from FHL microfilm #0550902.

 

 

Will of Jacob Willis of North Hempstead, Queens County, New York (1786) *

        In the Name of God Amen I Jacob Willis of North Hempstead in Queens County and State of New York being weak and low but of sound and disposeing mind and memory (blessed be God for the same) do this twenty ninth day of May in the Year of our Lord Christ one thousand seven hundred and eighty six make and publish this my last Will and testament in manner and form following (Viz) First I order and direct my Executors hereafter named to pay and discharge all my Just debts and funeral expences – Secondly I impower my Executors to sell my real estate whenever they shall think it most adviseable and also my personal estate – Thirdly I give and bequeath unto my loveing wife Elisabeth the use and benefit of all my estate both real and personal excepting the leagacies hereafter mentioned (that is to say I give and bequeath unto my daughter Mary Akens the sum of forty pounds in cash to be paid within a reasonable time after my decease. And the sum of Forty shillings to my daughter Jane Vallentine or a gold ring.– My Will and mind is that she my said wife shall have the use thereof while or as long as she Continues my Widdow and if she should marry to have the equal half of the same dureing her natural life and at her decease to be equally divided amongst my four daughters namely Ame Hicks, Phebe Alley, Mary Akens, and Abigail Thomas their heirs Executors or Administrators forever. – Fourthly and Lastly I nominate Constitute and appoint my beloved Wife Executrix my son in law Phillip Vallentine and my Trusty Nephew Richard Sprag Executors of or to this my last Will and testament– In Witness hereof I the said Jacob Willis have hereunto set my hand and fixed my seal the day and year above written–

                                                                                                                                                Jacob Willis                       (seal)

        Signed sealed published and pronounced by the Testator as & for his last Will and Testament in presence of us.

Richard Smith

Joseph Denton

James Cornell

 

Probated on 16 Aug. 1786, and proved by James Cornell of North Hempstead, Farmer. Letters of Administration granted to Elizabeth Willis and Richard Sprag, two of the Executors, on 17 Aug. 1786.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from New York County Probate, Vol. 39, p. 247-249, copied from original Liber 39, p. 209-210.

 

 

Will of John Willis of Bridgewater, Colony of New Plymouth (1692) *

                                The 14th of ye 4th month june 1692

In the name of God Amen John Willis Senr of the Town of Bridgwater in ye Colony of New Plimouth in New England Being by ye good hand of God of Sound judgment and Memory Do ordaine and make my last Will and Testament as followeth And first I doe ordaine and Constitute my Son Nathanael Willis to be my true and lawfull Executor Secondly my debts being paid and ye cost of my funerall discharged I Give unto my Son John Willis the ten acres of Land his house stands on And my farme of threescore acres of Land Lying below Titticut Together with ten acres of Land Yet unlayd out All which I Give to him and his heirs for Ever. I further Give unto my son Nathanael Willis my Dwelling house Orchard and Barne with the whole twenty five acres of land adjoyning thereunto from ye River unto ye poplar tree and pond that divides Between my sons Benjamins Land and mine and as far as it Runs on ye East side of Benjamins field beyond the Wolf tray Gutter Criely that yt is at this present time within Benjamins farme to Remain Benjamins All my whole Homestead I Give unto my son Nathanael him and his heirs for Ever Together with ten acres on the other side of Nunketeast River Lying betwixt Will orcutt and Nathanael Hayward. And threescore and ten acres of my far field as we Go to Taunton with Eleven acres of Grassey Swamp And four Acres at mile Brooke Between John Ames and Saml Edson together with half my Share of Sedar Swamp at Nunketeast pond And half a share of Cedar Swamp I Bought of Nicholas Byram And my two lots of Meadow one in Coasters Kitchen and the other in Cares Cove with all my undivided Land that Belongs unto my purchase in ye Town With my plough and Cart and all the Tacklin belonging thereunto onely Let it be Remembred that after his Decease the Seventy Acres of the far field be Divided unto his three sons Nathanael Jonathan and John. I Give unto Nathanael thirty Acres with two lots that I Bought of his Father at Tetecutt And to his Son Jonathan twenty acres and twenty unto his Son John All which I Give and Bequeath unto my Son Nathanael and his Children to him and his and their heirs for Ever  I Give unto my son Joseph Willis During his Life fifteen acres at the far field that side next Taunton And five and twenty acres of my Last fifty acres that is yet to be Layd out And after his decease unto his Eldest Son Joseph to him his heirs and Assigns for Ever I Give unto my Son Comfort my sixteene acres at the Indian field be it more or less And the ten acres on ye other side yt River butting on his Homestead And five acres joyning unto ye Southerly side of his Homestead And a Lott of Meadow in the Great Meadow and half my share of Cedar Swamp at ________ pond and half my undivided Land that Belongs unto my purchase All which I Give unto him and his heirs for Ever. I Give unto my son Benjamin my two Lotts at Tittecutt and the ten acres layd out to his Land in ye woods to him his heirs for Ever I Give unto my Eldest Daughter Hannah Hayward my Feather Bed I Lye on with ye Rugg belonging thereunto And my lesser Bed unto my Daughter Elizabeth Harvey with the Coverlit and Blanket. I Give unto my Grandchild Patience Augur one of my Cows And my Bible And all the Rest of my Goods and Chattels to be Equally divided Betwixt my three Daughters Hannah Hayward Sarah Ames And Elizabeth Harvey In Witness whereof I Set to my hand and Seal this Seventeenth day of ye Sixth month August 1692.

Signed and Sealed in presence of—                                                                                John Willis                         (seal)

Thomas Hayward                                : my desire is that Mr Keith and

Elihue Brett                                          Captain Hayward would See my will fulfilled.

 

Capt Thomas Hayward And Elihue Brett ye witnesses here named appreared in Plimouth ye 20th day of September 1693 And made oath that they were present and Saw & heard the abovesaid John Willis Sign Seal and Declare the above written to be his last Will and Testament And that in their judgment he was of disposing mind when he so did

Before William Bradford Esqr Judge               Attest Saml Sprague Registr

 

Nathanael Willis, the Executor, was granted administration of the estate on 20 Sept. 1693.

 

An Inventory of ye estate of John Willis Senr of Bridgwater who deceased the 27th of August in ye year 1693: [the inventory not totaled, but his Housing and Lands Improved & Dormant valued at £200.]

This is a true inventory according to our Best understanding taken by us whose names are under Written ye Last of August 1693

Thomas Hayward

John Ames Senr

Elihu Brett

 

Nathanael Willis Executor of ye last Will and Testament of his Late Father John Willis Late of Bridgwater deceased made oth in Plimouth September ye 20th 1693 Before William Bradford Esqr judge of probate &c that ye above Written is a true Inventory of the Estate of sd deceasd so far as he knoweth & that if more shall come to his Knowledge he will discovr ye same

                                                                                                                Attest Saml Sprague registr

 

* Transcribed with considerable difficulty by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 1, p. 169-170.

 

 

Will of John Willis of Bridgewater, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1711) *

In The Name of God Amen. I John Willis Senr of the Town of Bridgewater in The County of Plymouth in New England Husbandman Being Sick & weak in Bodey but of perfect minde & memory praised be God Therefore calling to mind my Mortality and knowing that it is appointed for all men once to Die Do make & ordain this my Last Will & Testament That is to Say principally & first of all I do Recomend my Soul into the hands of God that gave it and my body I recomend unto The Earth to be buried in Decent Christian Burial at The discretion of my Executrs and as Touching such worldly Estate wherewith it hath pleased God to Bless me in this Life I give demise & Dispose of The Same in manner and form following

Imprs I give and Bequeath unto Experiance my Dear and welbeloved wife all my Estate Both Real and personal which I am at This present time Seized of to make use of for her Comfort during her Widdowhood and to Dispose of at her decease among my Childrean as she Shall Se Cause

Item I have already given to my Son John Willis Some Lands by Deed which I do also hereby Confirm unto him and to his heirs for Ever, and my Will is that he Therewithal Rest Contented. Item To my Son Samuel Willis I have heretofore given my homestead with Some other Lands on the East Side of The River whereof he hath had assurance by Deed which I do hereby further Confirm unto him and his heirs for Ever to be by Them possessed and Injoyed according to The Tennor of The Sd Deed.

Item To my Daughter Experiance Hudson I have Given by Deed a parcel of Land on The Westerly Side of The Town River and I do hereby Confirm the Same to her & her heirs for ever. Item to my Daughter Mary Randal I have given Twenty acres of Lands in Taunton north Purchase which Lands I had of Nathaniel Aymes The Sd Lands houseing ben given to her by Deed under my hand and seal I do hereby Confirm the same to her and her heirs for Ever. Finally I do nominate and Appoint Experiance my Dear and Loving wife Executrix and my Son John Executors of This my Last Will and Testament utterly Renounceing Revoking and Disallowing all other Wills—Testaments Leacys Bequests or Executors by me heretofore made Devised or Named Ratifying and Confirming this & no other to be my Last Will and Testament. In Wittness Whereof I have hereunto Set my hand & Seal This Eight Day of May Anno Domini 1712.

Signed Sealed Published & Pronounced                                                                                         The mark y of

& Declared by ye Abovesd Jno Willis as                                                                         John Willis             (seal)

his Last Will and Testament

Nathll Brett

                his

Comfort  C  Willis

                mark

Joshua Willis

 

Probated on 2 July 1712, and proved by Mr. Nathaniel Brett, Comfort Willis, and Joshua Willis.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of John Willis Senr., late of Bridgwater, who deceased on May 14 Anno Domini 1712, was appraised by Nicholas Byram, Comfort Willis, and Nathaniel Brett on 24 June 1712, but not totaled. Experiance Willis, the relict widdow of John Willis, late of Bridgwater, gave her oath to the inventory on 2 July 1712.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 3, pp. 167, 172, from FHL microfilm #0550509.

 

 

Will of John Willis of New York City, New York (1806) *

In the name of God Amen I John Willis of the City of New York in the State of New York Merchant being of sound and disposing mind memory and understanding but considering the uncertainty of this mortal life Do make and ordain this my last Will and Testament in manner and form following that is to say

                                                                                                                                                                First and principally I commend my soul to God who gave it & to Jesus who has redeemed it and my body I resign to the earth to be decently buried under the direction and at the discretion of my Executrix herein after to be named

                                                                                                                                                                Item my Will and meaning is that all my just debts and funeral expences shall be paid and discharged by my said Executrix as soon after my decease as may be convenient for that purpose

                                                                                                                                                Item I give and bequeath to my son Caleb Willis of the Town of Mount Pleasant in the County of Westchester and state aforesaid the sum of Ten dollars lawful money of the United States of America as a small Testimony of my Parental regard

                                                                                                                                Item I give and bequeath unto my daughter Synthia Merrit the wife of Ebenezer Merrit of the City of New York aforesaid the like sum of Ten dollars lawful money as aforesaid with sentiments of regard similar to those I have the like bequested to my son Caleb

                                                                                                                Item I give and bequeath unto my son William Willis of New Haven in the State of Conneticut as a similar Token of my regard one feather Bed & Beding for the same and also a desk with drawers

                                Item I give devise and bequeath all the rest residue and remainder of my estate of whatever nature or kind the same may be both real and personal which I now have or hereafter may have or acquire unto my beloved wife Charlotte Willis to have and to hold the same to and for her use benefit and behoof forever

                                Lastly I do hereby nominate and appoint my said wife the sole and only executrix of this my last Will and Testament hereby revoking all other and former Will and Wills by me at any time made and declaring this and this only to be my last Will and Testament

                                                                                                                                In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this first day of March in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and six

                                                                                                                                                John Willis                         (seal)

Signed and sealed and published by the said John Willis the Testator above named as and for his last Will and Testament in the presence of us who have at his request and in his presence and in the presence of each other subscribed our names as witnesses thereto the said first day of March one thousand eight hundred and six

John Morris

Martha Youngs

John Stanford

 

Probated on 3 Jan. 1814, and proved by John Morris, Martha Young and John Stanford, the witnesses, all of the City of New York. Letters of Administration granted to Charlotte Willis, the Executrix, on 3 Jan. 1814.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from New York County Probate, Vol. 51, p. 233-236, copied from original Liber 51, p. 201-203.

 

 

Will of Richard Willis of Rombout, Dutchess County, New York (1782) *

        Be it Remembered that on this twenty fourth day of August in the year of our Lord Christ one thousand seven hundred and eighty two I Richard Willis of Rumbouts Precinct in the County of Dutchess and State of New York being weak in Body but of perfect mind and memory thanks be given to God and therefore calling to mind the mortallity of my body and knowing that it is appointed for all men once to die do make this my last will and testament and first of all I bequeath my soul into the hands of God that gave it me and as for my body I recomend it to the earth to buried in a Christian like mannor at the descretion of my Executors first I order my funeral charges and all my just and lawfull depts to be well and truely paid. Secondly I give to my son James one hundred pounds in Gold or silver or other money aquivelent thereto. Thirdly I give to my grandson Charles Willis the colt that now sucks a black mair of mine. Fourthly I give to my grand son Richard Willis Ten pounds in gold & silver. Fifthly I give to my loving wife Elizabeth and that as long as she shall remain my wido all lands and improvements of any kind or nature soever which I have lying and being in the township of New Rochel in the County of Westchester and state of New York I also give to my said wife all the remaining part of my personal estate excepting one fether bed and sufitiant furniture for said Bed which said Bed and furniture above excepted I give to my grand daughter Elizabeth Willis – Lastly I nominate and apoint my son James Willis and my friend Benjamin Smith the older of North Castle Executors of this my will in trust whome I do hereby authorise impower and request to fulfil and satisfie every clause and artikel above writen and I do utterly disannul and revoak and disannul all and every other wills and testaments made by me before this date ratefying confirming and alowing this and no other to be my last will and testament.

Signed, sealed published pronounced and declared to be my last will and testement in the presents of the under writen witnesses

                                                                                                                                                Richard Willis                   (seal)

John Schut

James Schutt

Benjamin Smith

 

Probated on 20 Sept. 1784, and proved by Benjamin Smith, of North Castle, yeoman, one of the witnesses. Letters of Administration granted to James Willis, one of the Executors, on 8 Oct. 1784.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from New York County Probate, Vol. 37, p. 246-248, copied from original Liber 37, p. 245-247.

 

 

Will of Susannah Willis of Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Massachusetts Bay (1783) *

  In the Name of God Amen the twenty fourth day of March one thousand seven hundred and Eighty three I Susannah Willis of Bridgwater in the County of Plymouth and Commonwealth of Massachusetts State in New England widow Relict to Saml Willis Late of said Bridgwater deceased, being weak of body but of perfect mind & memory thanks be Given to God, Calling to mind the mortality of my body and knowing that it is appointed for all men once to die do make and ordain this my Last will and testament, that is to say principally and first of all I Give and Recommend my Soul into the hands of almighty God that Gave it, my Redeemer in whom and by the merits of Jesus Christ I trust & believe assuredly to be saved, and that my Soul with my body at the General day of the Resurrection shall rise again with joy and through the merits of Christs death and passion passes and Inherits the kingdom of heaven prepared for his Elect and Chosen, and my body to be buried in such place as it shall please my Executor hereafter named to appoint, and touching such worldly Estate wherewith it hath pleased God to bless me with in this Life, I Give demise and dispose of the same in the following manner and form that is to say

First – I will that all those debts and dues as I owe in Right of Conscience to any manner of person or persons whatsoever shall be well and truly Contented and paid or ordained to be paid within Convenient time after my decease by my Son Eliakim Willis whom I Likewise Constitute ordain and appoint to be the Sole Executor of this my Last will and testament

Item – I Give to my Daughters Susanna Willis and Silence Willis the one half of my dwelling house namely the west end of said house and also half the Buttery & one third part of the Cellar under said house, to be for their use as Long as they Remain in an unmarried state and no Longer; also I Give to my daughter Susanna Willis the best Bed and furniture – and my Looms & tackling, and my smallest Looking Glass & Round table and Low Chest of Draws & Red Chest & my Riding hood

Item – I Give to my Daughter Silence Willis two Beds & their furniture & my high Case of draws & my Largest Looking Glass & all my wearing apparell Excepting what was aforementioned, and also I Give all my Pewter to my three Daughters vizr– Susanna, Lydia & Silence to be equally divided between them and the Remainder part of my Indoor moveables I Give to my daughters Susanna & Silence to be equally divided between them—and also I Give to my son Nathan Willis Six pounds Lawful silver money which I order my Executor to pay him one year after my decease, also I Give to my Daughter Susannah Willis, twelve pounds Lawful silver money which I order my Executor to pay her one year after my decease

Item – I Give to my daughter Lydia Lathrop Ten pounds Lawful silver money to be paid by my Executor one year after my decease, and also I Give to my daughter Silence Willis Ten pounds Lawful silver money to be paid one year after my decease by my executor, and what Remains which appears to be my Estate after all my just debts are paid, and all the Legacies which I have ordered my Executor to pay, are paid, I Give to my son Eliakim Willis and Zebulon Willis all my Lands & buildings which are not heretofore disposed of, to be equally divided between them, and I hereby utterly disallow Revoke and disannul all & every other former testament wills Legacies, bequests & Executors by me in any ways before named willed & bequeathed Ratifying & Confirming this & no other to be my Last will & testament – In Witness whereof I have hereunto Set my hand & Seal this twenty fourth day of March & in the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred & Eighty three

Signed, Sealed & published, pronounced and

Declared by the said Susannah Willis as her Last                                                         Susanna Willis                  (seal)

will & testament in the presence of us, who in her

presence & in the presence of each other have here-

unto subscribed our names –

Elijah Hayward – Luther Hayward – Elijah Snell

 

Presented for probate on 3 April 1784 by Eliakim Willis, the Executor therein named, and proved by Elijah Hayward and Luther Hayward, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Elikaim Willis, the before named Executor.

No inventory of her estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 29, p. 128-130, from FHL microfilm #0550715.

 

 

Will of Edward Winslow of Rochester, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1758) *

In the Name of God Amen, The second day of October Anno Domini One Thousand seven hundred & fifty Eight, I Edward Winslow of Rochester in the County of Plimouth Esqr, being of a disposeing mind & memory do make and Ordain this my last will & Testament, and first of all I Give my soul to God that gave it & my body to the Earth to be buried in decent burial at the discretion of my Executor herein named, and as touching such worldly Estate as it hath pleased God to bless me I Give & dispose of the same in the following manner & Form.

First – I give and Bequeath to Sarah my Dearly beloved wife the use and Improvement of my now dwelling house and one half of my homestead lying between the middle branch & westerly branch of Mattapoisett river that is to say the one half of all the Lands and meadows that I there own which lyeth westward & Southward of said branch, also the one half of the fresh meadow I have lying on the East side Mattepoisett river from the most southerly Spring Creek in the ninth Lot of Fresh meadow upstream Excepting two Acres at the North End thereof. also my half of the Grist mill standing on the aforesaid river, and also my two best working Cattle & two Cows and also my two best beds & the furniture belonging to them, and also my Great Looking Glass & silver Shoe buckles & Gold Shirt Sleeve buttens, and also the One half all the other Household Goods within Doors Exclusive of the other beds & beding also I give her the One half of the Out door Utensils for farming and One half my swine and all my sheep, also I Give her my Large Brass Andirons all which I give her dureing her being my widdow It being for her Comfort, and I give her my Negro woman named Dinah so long as She Shall be my widdow, and in Case She see cause to marry again I Give her the two beds and furniture abovementioned and Thirteen pound, Six shillings & Eight pence worth of the stock above given her to be at her disposal forever also I give her the use of the Barn Standing On my homestead nearest my dwelling house and all the provision & Corn in the stores to be at my widows dispose, The Barn only dureing her widdowhood.

Item. I Give and bequeath To my son Edward Winslow and the same to be to him and his heirs and assigns forever the Other half of my homestead Lands and buildings upon the same and that both upland and meadow being that half which my said son now Improves, Also I give him my Fresh meadow that I have lying on the East side Mattapoisett River From the North End of the Eighth lot of fresh meadow and so upstream Excepting the two Acres above Expressed as Excepted up to the said two acres, also I Give him my said son the stream and Dam where the Iron works stood, also the Land where the Cole house stood, and all the land I have on the East side of the middle branch of said River Adjoyning to said Iron works, also all my land lying between Capt Noah Spragues land and the Land I bought of Peter Crapoo, & Thomas Tompson in Sniptuet neck so called, also all my land of all sorts I own in Freetown and Tivertown, also my will is that what Lands & Buildings that are upon the same which I have in this will given to my wife dureing her being my widdow I Give the same to my son Edward he not to interrupt her in her peaceible possession and improvement of the same dureing her widdowhood, And I also give my said son Edward the land & houseing Called the Great house and homstead which was Samuel Princes Esqr, Reference being had to their Deeds for Contents & bounds of the same, my will is that all the lands and real Estate which I give to my said son Edward Shall be to him his heirs & assigns forever, also my will is that my said son allow sufficient and handey fire wood of from his Share of land to his mother as also fenceing stuffs for her Farm, also what I bought of said Princes Farm at a Vendue which was Thomas Turners I give him.

Item My Will is that beside the land I have already given to my son in Law Thomas Winslow and his wife Mehitable my Deed which I hereby Confirm to them I also give them One fifth part of my Indoor household stuff which I have not already given away in this my will.

Item, I give to my son in law James Whitcomb and Sarah his wife and to their heirs and Assigns forever Three quarters of my Original lot of Number sixty one that I have in Greenwich in the County of Hampshire And also do Confirm to them what I have already Given them by Deed, also I give them the one fifth part of that half of the Indoor moveables which I have not given away that is to say of household Stuff~

Item I Give to my three Grand Children viz Seth Lincoln Mehitable Russell and Rachel Phips in Equal partnership, One quarter of my lot of land in Green wich aforesaid of number Sixty One together with the second Division which the after Rights of said Quarter not Included in James & Sarah Whitcombs Deeds and my will is that said James Whitcomb upon the account of which I have given him and wife he discharge my Estate from all demands of Cash or Charge on the account of what he has Expended On my lands in said Green which & Elsewhere.

Item, I Give to my son in Law James Foster & Lydia his wife One Bible of Octavo besides the One fifth part of that half of the Indoor moveables which I have not Given away that is to say Household stuff to them also.

Item. My Will is relateing to my son in Law Chillingsworth Foster and the five Children he has by my daughter Mary that Considering I have already put into his hands in full of their portion in the right of their deceasd mother, I do now Give them to be Equally divided between them the One fifth part of that half of the Indoor utensils to be Equally divided between them not before given to their Grandmother as a surplusage in full.

Item, I Give to my Grandson Edward Winslow son of my daughter Mehitable and to his heirs and assigns forever that parcell of land I have laid out to me adjoyning to the land which Samuel Rider junr. bought of Isaac Little Esqr which said land lyeth in Rochester aforesaid, and also I give him as aforesaid so much more land out of some of my Grant not yet laid out in said Rochester Proprietee as to make up that peice abovesaid Given him Thirty Acres in the whole he to lay it out as the Grants will allow of and my Executor to assign what grant & Share to be taken out of.

Item I Give to my Grandson Edward my son Edwards son & the same to be to him his heirs & Assigns forever all my land that I have lying by my Grist mill in said Rochester On the Northerly side of the old roade Island path or Roade so Called and adjoyning thereunto which I bought of Keneln Winslow of Harwich and also my Fresh meadow & swampy Ground Adjoyning to said Land which was part of the Eight lot of fresh meadow.

Item. I Give to my Grandson Edward Whitcomb son of my daughter Sarah Whitcomb four Spanish milld Dollars—

Also I Give to my Grandson Edward the son of my daughter Lydia Foster four Spanish mill’d dollars.

Item I Give To my Grandson Edward Hamond son of my daughter Thankfull deceased his heirs and assigns forever that peice of land I have in Rochester aforesaid which lyeth by the Homestead which was the late William Bassetts deceasd lying On the Southward of the Roade or Pathway.

Item. I Give to my four Grand Children the Children of my daughter Thankfull deceased viz Edward Parnel Thankfull & Zerviah Hammond and the same to be to them and their heirs and assigns forever that forty Acres of land in Rochester aforesaid which I bought of my said son in Law Josephus Hammond which was Once part of Job Lorings homestead and the same to be Equally divided between imediately after their said Fathers death he to improve it his life time, also I Give to my said four Grand Children of the said daughter Thankfull One fifth part of that half of the Indoor Household Stuff to be Equally divided between them said Edward Parnel Thankfull & Zerviah which was not given to my wife.

Item To my son in Law Josephus Hammond I Give that two Acres of Fresh meadow and meadowish Ground Reserved out of the parcell given to improve to my wife at the North End thereof on the East side of said Mattepoisett River to be bounded out by my Executor at said Hammonds cost

and I also Give to my son Edward Winslow and the same to be to him his Heirs and assigns forever my three quarters of a Sawmill by Deacon Elisha Fremans Homestead with the Land I own there and my right in the stream and Damms, also I Give him my wearing Apparell my Cane my share in the Grist mill on Mattepoiset river my silver Shoe buckles & Gold shirt Sleeve buttons Given to my wife dureing her life, after her death Furthermore whatever other Estate both Real or personal which I have or shall dye Owner of not mentioned in this my will I Give the same to my said son Edward & to his heirs and assigns forever whatsoever or wheresoever the same is or may be found~   Finally I do hereby appoint & Impower my said son Edward Winslow sole Executor of this my Last will and Testament, and order him to pay all my Just Debts & all my Legacys in my will Given and to Inable him thereunto I give him all my money, due or shall here after become due to me any manner of ways whatsoever and I do also hereby make void all and any former will or wills heretofore made by me and ratyfie this & only this to be my last will and Testament

In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal the day and year first above written—

Signed sealed Published Pronounced

and Declared by the said Edward

Winslow as his Last will & Testament

  In presence of                                                                                                                    Edward Winslow                             (seal)

Samuel Wing

Thomas Whitridg

Nathan Nye

Ezra Clark

William Sears

Timothy Ruggles

 

Presented for probate on 21 July 1760 by the Executor therein named, and proved by Thomas Whitredge and Nathan Nye, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Edward Winslow of Rochester, Gentleman, the Executor, on 21 June [sic] 1760.

 

The Inventory of the Estate both Real and Personal of Edward Winslow Esqr late of Rochester, was appraised on 15 July 1760 by Timothy Ruggles, Nathaniel Ruggles and Thomas Whitredge, and totaled £1591.8.8, including his homestead farm with the buildings valued at £1040, and several other parcels of land. The appraisers gave their oath to the inventory on 16 July 1760, and Edward Winslow, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 21 July 1760.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 15, p. 540-544, from FHL microfilm #0551543.

 

 

Will of Edward Winslow of Rochester, Plymouth County, Massachusetts Bay (1779) *

In the name of God Amen–I Edward Winslow of Rochester in the county of Plymouth and State of Massachusetts Bay, Gent; being arrived to advanced age, yet through the Goodness of God of a disposing mind and memory do ordain this my Last will and testament, and in the first place I comend my soul to God who Gave it and my body to the dust to be buried at the discretion of my Executor, and with Respect to the worldly Estate wherewith it has pleased God to bless me I dispose of in the maner following vizt

Imprimis – I Give and bequeath to my beloved wife Hannah such a part of my Estate as she would have if I had died Intestate, also my best Horse & Riding chair with the tackling, during her widowhood, but if my wife marry again, it is my will, and I do recommend it to her to acquit all Right to my Estate, provided my son Benjamin pay her thirteen pounds six shillings & eight pence in money equal in value to what money was in the year seventeen hundred and seventy five, which if my said wife is pleased to accept of, I oblige my son Benjamin to pay her upon demand

Item—I bequeath to my son Isaac all the swamp which I now own, which I hold by deed from my son Edward deceased, which he bought of John Lewis which swamp Lieth on the east side of the main chief way which Leadeth into the swamp, excepting one acre & an half joining on the north side of Deacon Whitteridge’s Cedar swamp, beginning at the north west corner of said Cedar swamp, thence running so far as that an East Line to the upland, and a south Line by the upland, to said Whitteridges swamp will include an acre & an half, this I Reserve to be a part of the portion of my son Benjamin—Likewise I bequeath to my son Isaac all the Lands and appurtenances which I bought of John Matthes, also I Give to my sd son Isaac Forty eight pounds seventeen shillings, for which money I sold Land to Joseph Hamond which I intended for my son Isaac, all which I Give to my said son under these Restrictions, that none of the premises shall be sold unless consent be obtained of my Executor under hand and seal, and the money for which the premises may be sold in the manner above Specified shall be deposited in the hands of my Executor to be dealt out as the necessities of my said son Isaac shall require, and if my said son Isaac shall marry, then I order that the money which may then be due to him shall be Laid out in such a manner as my Executor shall think most for the advantage of my sd. son Isaac, Likewise I Give to my son Isaac one Large Silver spoon & one third part of my wearing apparell, and in case my son Isaac die without Issue all his Estate shall Go to my son Benjamin, and if my sd son Isaac stand in need of support over & above what I have Given him, I oblige my son Benjamin to afford it to him, allowing him the priviledge of Living in my house and my son Benjamin shall have the benefit of his Labour

Item—I bequeath to my dutiful son Tisdale one Dollar, which with the Lands I have Given him by deed is his portion of my Estate

Item—It is allso my will that my son Benjamin, within a year after my decease pay to Seth Pope my son in Law one English Guinea in Gold or the value thereof in other money, also that one fifth part of two thirds of my indoor moveables be sett off to said son in Law also one tenth part of my wife’s thirds in the indoor moveables when she Leaves them all which I oblige my son in Law to divide equally among the children of my daughter Sarah deceased ~

                N.B. the Erasement above was made before the signing of this Instrument, and here Let it be also noted that my Great Looking Glass, Great bible & provision are not to be divided, but they shall be the property of my son Benjamin

Item—I bequeath to my dutiful daughter Hannah one Guinea in Gold, or the value thereof in Other money, to be paid her by my Executor, within a year after my decease also one fifth part of two thirds of the Indoor moveables, also one tenth part of my wife’s thirds of the household stuff when she Leaves it, these things with what I have heretofore Given her is her portion of my Estate

Item—To my dutiful daughter Rachel, I bequeath one English Guinea in Gold or the value thereof in Other money, to be paid her by my Executor within a year after my decease, also one fifth part of two thirds of my Indoor moveables, also one tenth of my wife’s thirds of the indoor moveables when she Leaves them, all which together with what I have already Given her is her portion of my Estate

Item—It is my will that my dutiful daughter Thankul have the same articles for keeping house provided for her by my Executor which I have heretofore Given to my Other married daughters; whatever articles therefore she is deficient in, to make her equal to my Other married daughters, at my decease, I oblige my Executor to provide for her, also I oblige my Executor to pay my said daughter Thankul one English Guinea in Gold or the value thereof in other money, within an year after my decease, also I Give to my sd daughter Thankful one fifth part of two thirds of my Indoor moveables and one tenth party of my wife’s thirds of the household stuff when she Leaves it –

Item—I oblige my son Benjamin to provide for my dutiful daughter Mercy the same Articles of household furniture in kind which I have Given to my married daughters, also I Give my sd. daughter one English Guinea in Gold or to the value thereof in Other money within a year after my decease to be paid to her by my son Benjamin, also one fifth part of two thirds of my Indoor moveables, also one tenth part of my wife’s thirds in the Indoor moveables when she Leaves them

Item—I bequeath to my Grandson David Winslow one spanish milled Dollar, and to my Grandson Edward my Silver Shoe buckles, both of which Grandsons are the children of my son Edward deceased ~

Item—I bequeath to my Grand-daughter Elenor one spanish milled Dollar

Item—I bequeath to my Grandson Noah son to my son Enoch deceased three Quarters of the Land I bought of my son Edward, excluding the two Acres of which I have already Given him a deed being situated on the north side of the path Leading from the widow Reed’s to the Grist mill, also three Quarters of a Piece of fresh meadow on the east side of Mattapoisett River being part of what I purchased of my son Edward, also three Quarters of a piece of upland and fresh meadow Lying between the meadow and Land I have herein Given him, and the meadow which I sold Seth Pope Lying on the East side of Mattapoisett River, also one third of my Pew in the meeting house Gallery, also a Large silver spoon, all which I Give to my said Grandson Noah his heirs and assigns forever

Item—It is further my will to Give the Other Quarter of the above mentioned Lands and meadows to be equally divided between my two Grand daughters Sarah and Hannah, children of my son Enoch deceased, to be theirs their heirs and assigns forever—Likewise I Give to each of my said Grand-daughters a Right to sett in my Pew in the Gallery, while they continue unmarried

Item—It is further my will that my daughter in Law Sarah have the improvement of all the Lands & meadows which I have in this my Last will and testament Given to her children in order to enable her to bring them up, and upon the children’s being free, my said daughter in Law shall sett off to each of them their Respective parts as prescribed in this Instrument, and if either of the children of said son Enoch deceased shall stand in need of further support I hereby impower my son Benjamin to afford it to them and take his pay out of the portion of the child so helped

Item—I bequeath to my daughter Bethiah a comfortable support in sickness and in health during her natural Life which support shall be provided her by my son Benjamin, and if she pleases to Live in my house she shall have a right so to do, but my son Benjamin shall have the benefit of her Labour, and should she ever marry, my said son is under obligations to make provision only for her person, and upon her decease without Issue my son Benjamin shall have whatever Goods or Chattels she dies Seized of

Item—I Give and bequeath to my Grand daughter Hannah child of my daughter Pope, my Side Saddle

Item—I Give and bequeath to my dutiful son Benjamin all the Residue of my Estate of whatever nature and kind, & wherever found, which I have not conveyed to any Other person by deed or by this my Last will & testament, all which I bequeath to said Benjamin his heirs and assigns forever, obliging him to pay all Legacies and to take upon him all Incumbrances specified in this instrument, and to pay all my Just debts and funeral charges—and finally I appoint and constitute my son Benjamin the sole Executor of this my Last will and testament, revoking all wills which I have heretofore made I constitute and Establish this and this alone to be my Last will & testament–In Testimony of which I do hereunto set my hand and seal this twenty ninth day of January in the year of our Lord one thousand, seven hundred & seventy nine

        In Presence of                                                                                                              Edward Winslow                             (seal)

        John Rider

        Abraham Devel

        John Hammett

        David Edwards

        Silas Sears

 

Presented for probate on 5 June 1780 by Benjamin Winslow, the Executor therein named, and proved by John Rider and John Hammett, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Benjamin Winslow, the before named Executor, with John Rider and John Hammett, all of Rochester, as sureties.

 

Thomas Whitteridge, Seth Dexter, and John Hammett, all of Rochester, yeomen, were appointed to appraise the estate of Edward Winslow, late of Rochester, on 5 June 1780. The Inventory of the Estate of Edward Winslow, late of Rochester, Gent, dated 2 June 1780, totaled £868.12.11, including his real estate, valued at £666.13.4. Benjamin Winslow, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 5 June 1780.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 25, p. 518-524, from FHL microfilm #0550713.

 

 

Will of Gilbert Winslow of Marshfield, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1731) *

In the Name of God Amen. I Gilbert Winslow of Marshfield in the County of Plymouth in New-England Yeoman being weak of body & sensible of my approching Dissolution do Make & Ordain this my last Will & Testament being through ye. Mercy of God of a sound & disposing Mind & Memory: I Commit my Soul to God that gave it & my Body to a decent Christian Burial at ye. Discretion of my Executr. hereafter named –

Imprims. I Give to my  loving Wife Mercy Winslow the Improvements or Profits of all my Lands & Meadows in the Township of Marshfield of all Sorts With one half of my Dwelling House viz: the best lower Room & Chamber above it With half the Cellar Also the One half of ye Barn while she shall remain my Widow. I also give my sd. Wife the One half of my Moveable Estate within Doors & without Doors both quick Stock & houshold Stuff during her Continuing my Widow as aforesd. but if She shall see Cause to Alter her Condition by Marriage then to have twenty Pound out of ye Moveable Estate as it shall be prised.

Itm. I Give to my Son Issachar Winslow about Sixteen Acres of Land lying on ye. Westerly Side of the high way leading to Little Town Brook bounded Southerly by Willm Stevens Land till it comes to the high way & by ye sd Way till it turns more Easterly near an Apple tree & then turning & running near North West as the Fence stands down the Brook to a Stake & Stones by sd Brook & running up sd. Brook to the first Mentioned Bounds With all the Meadow known by the name of ye. Little Island Meadow Except two Acres lying next to the Meadow of John Jones to him his Heirs & Assigns forever –

Itm I Give to my Son Anthony Winslow my Land beginning at the aforesd. Apple tree and running as the Fence now Stands to Little Town Brook and up the sd. Brook to the Stones & Stake aforementioned & then from thence to ye. sd. Apple tree With all ye. Buildings by him Erected & Standing thereon & also two Acres of Meadow known by ye Name of ye. Little Island Meadow lying next & by ye. Side of ye Meadow of John Jones The aforesd. Land & Meadow I Give to him the sd. Anthony Winslow his Heirs & Assigns forever.

Itm I Give to my four Sons Barnabas Gilbert Job & Benjamin all my Lands lying on the Easterly Side of the Road the Leads down to Little town Brook With all ye. Buildings & Fences standing & being thereon With all the Meadows lying Easterly on ye. Meadow or Swamp land of Thomas & John Tilden Southerly by ye. Swamp land of Jno. Little & Westerly by ye. Meadow of John Little know by ye Name of ye. Pine tree Island Meadow Also the 48 Lot in the first Division in the Commons of Marshfield being 18 Acres & by Me Purchased of Anthony Waterman deceasd And also 13 Acres more wch. I Purchased of ye. sd. Anthony Waterman & was by ye. sd. Waterman Purchased of Daniel Thomas & John Rogers as by ye. Deed may appear to them the sd. Barnabas Gilbert Job & Benjamin their Heirs & Assigns forever ~

Itm I Give to my Son Issachar Winslow his Heirs & Assigns forever the One half of that Lot of Land I bought of Isaac Barker of Pembroke The Whole of ye. sd. Lot Containing 16 Acres being the 39 Lot in the first Division of Marshfield Commons The other half thereof I do hereby Give to my two Youngest Sons Job & Benjamin to them their Heirs & Assigns forever ~

Itm I Give to my two Daughters Mercy & Rebecca One hundred & fifty Pound to Each of them to be paid out of my Moveable Estate The One half thereof to be paid to them within One Year after my Decease the Other Half within One Year after my Wife Decease or Marriage And if it so happen that my Moveables be not sufficient to pay to sd. Daughters as abovesd Viz: One hundred & fifty Pound Each that then my sd Six Sons shall pay equally & in Proportion to my two Daughters what shall be Wanting to Make up sd Sum—

Itm My Will is that whatsoever of my Moveable Estate may be left after my said Daughters have recievd their Portions shall be equally Divided amongst all my Sons – It is my Mind and to be Understood that my sd. Sons are not to have the Use of any of my Lands lying in the Town of Marshfield & by this my sd. Will given to them till after ye. Decease or Marriage of my sd. Wife: I do hereby appoint my two Eldest Sons Issachar Winslow & Barnabas Winslow joint Executrs of this my last Will & Testament Dated the twenty Sixth Day of May Anno Domini – 1731.

                                                                                                                                                Gilbert Winslow                               (seal)

Signed Sealed Pronounced

& Declared by ye sd. Gilbert

Winslow to be his last

Will and Testament

In Presence of

John Jones

John White

John Jones junr.

 

Probated on 22 June 1731, and proved by John Jones, Jno. White, and John Jones junr., the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Issachar Winslow and Barnabas Winslow, the two Eldest Sons of ye. sd. Deceasd. and joint Executors, on 12 July 1731.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Gilbert Winslow late of Marshfield was appraised by John Jones, John White, and Thomas Macomber on 23 June 1731, and totaled £1994.16.9, including his real estate, both upland and meadow, valued at £1560. Issachar Winslow, one of the Executors, gave his oath to the inventory on 27 Sept. 1731.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 6, pp. 45-47, 84-85, from FHL microfilm #0550512.

 

 

Will of Isaac Winslow of Marshfield, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1736) *

In The Name of God Amen. I Isaac Winslow of Marshfield In the County of Plymouth within the Province of The Massachusetts Bay In New England being of a sound Disposeing Minde & Memory Through the Mercy of God and sensible of my Mortality Do make this my Last will & Testament Haveing Committed my Soul to God and my Body to a Decent Christian Burial I Desire & Direct that my outward Estate may be Settled & Disposed of in maner Following: I Give to my son John Winslow my Seal Ring : I Give to my Son Edward my other Rings & my Sword or Rapire; also I Give to my sd sons all my armes & wareing apparrel to be Equally Divided Between them. I Give my Books to be Equally Divided Between my Beloved wife Sarah Winslow & my sd Sons John Winslow & Edward Winslow To Each a Third part. I Give to my sd Wife the use & Improvement of all My Moveable Estate within Doors & without Excepting my Quck Stock The one half of which I Desire may be sold Towards the payment of Debts & Charges The other half I Give her the Improvement of together with the Other Moveable Estate before Mentioned Dureing her Natural Life with full Power to make Such Disposition Thereof to & among her children as She may Se Cause I also Give to her my sd wife The Improvement of one half of My Real Estate Except Such as I Shall Herein Dispose of or may be Disposed of by My Executors Hereafter Named according to this will Dureing her Life  —  I Give to my Daughter Penelope Warren wife to Mr James Warren of Plymouth That Peice or Parcel of Salt Meadow which he the sd James Warren has Improved for this Several years being about Twenty Acres besides what She hath already had I Give to her, her Heirs & assigns forever  —  I Give to my Daughter Elizabeth Marston The wife of Mr Benjamin Marston of Salem besides what She Hath already Recied. the Sum of Two Hundred Pounds to be paid her by my Sons John Winslow & Edward Winslow In Equal Proportion In Some Convenient Time after my Decease

I Do Hereby Give full Power to my Executors Hereafter named to Sell & Dispose of so much of my Real Estate Either of the out Lands or of the Homestead of The upland or meadow as they shall thinck Most Convenient for the Payment of my Debts & for the Bring up my youngest Son Edward In his Learning throh the Course of his Studey at the College til he has Taken his Second Degree  —  I Give to my sons John Winslow & Edward Winslow to them Their Heirs & assigns forever all my Houseing & Lands not Herein Disposed of & what shall Not be Disposed of by my Executors aforesd. the Improvement of The one half to their mother as afore Excepted whether lying In Marshfield Pembrook Middleborough or Rutland or wheresoever Else to be Equally Divided Between them the Land formerly Given to my Son John Winslow by Deed of Gift to be accounted as Part of his Divition & that my Son Edward to Have Proportionable to that & their to be Equally Divided. In Consideration whereof I Hereby Direct my Sons John Winslow & Edward Winslow to pay to their Sister Elizabeth Marston as abovesd the sum of Two Hundred Pounds As aforedmentioned to be paid In Silver Money Bills of this Province or Such Money as Shall be Passable in the Government at the time:

I Do Hereby Appointe my aforesd wife Sarah Winslow & my Sons John Winslow & Edward Winslow Joynt Executors of this my Last will & Testament. In Witness whereof I have Hereunto Sett my hand & Seal the Twenty fourth Day of May anno Domini one Thousand Seven Hundred & Thirty Six  1736

Signed Seald & Declared by ye sd Isaac Winslow

to be his Last will & Testament In Presence of

Joshua Soul

Palatiah West                                                                                                                       Isaac Winslow                  (seal)

Saml Wyton

Nathaniel Fish

 

Proved on 6 Apr. 1739 by Joshua Soul, Palatiah West, Saml Wyton and Nathl. Fish, the witnesses. Administration of the estate of the Hon. Isaac Winslow granted to Sarah Winslow, John Winslow, Esqr., & Edward Winslow, Gent., on 6 Apr. 1739.

 

The Inventory of the Real & Personal Estate of the Honble Isaac Winslow Esqr., late of Marshfield, was appraised by Edward Arnold, Kenelm Winslow and Jabez Whittemore on 16 May 1739. The personal estate was not totaled, but it included servants valued at £250, and £415 in cattle, and his real estate totaled £13,510. Madm Sarah Winslow, John Winslow, Esqr., and Mr. Edward Winslow, the Executors, gave their oath to the inventory on 27 July 1739.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 8, p. 27-30, from FHL microfilm #0551531.

 

 

Will and Codicil of Dr. Isaac Winslow of Marshfield, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1815) *

  In the Name of God amen I Isaac Winslow of Marsfield in the County of of Plymouth and State of Massachusetts Physician on considering the Uncertainty of human Life & the Expediency of making a Distribution of my property while I am in the possession of my reason & understanding do make & ordain the following to be my last will & Testament, that is to say~

        First I give to my beloved Wife Frances Winslow all the household Furniture that she brought from Hingham since we were married, together with such a Cow as she shall choose from among my Cows, after my decease, the above Furniture & Cow to be delivered at Hingham by my Executor hereafter to be named if she chooses to reside there & I also give to my said Wife three thousand Dollars together with a Suit of Mourning Clothes, provided she relinquishes her right of Dower in my Estate otherwise what the Law will give her —

        Also I give and bequeath to my Son John Winslow all the Family pictures, my Sword, all my Library of Books & my Watch and wearing Apparel. ~

        All the rest of my Estate after the above Legacy to my Wife & my Debts & funeral Charges are paid, it is my Will that it be equally divided between my four Children viz Elizabeth Whitman, Ruth S Dingley, John Winslow & Sarah Clapp – it is to be understood, that if one or more of my Children shall die before my decease & have no Child, it is my Will that my Estate shall be equally divided between those that do survive me or to the Heirs of those that have Heirs of their Body – it is also my Will, that if Mercy Stockbridge shall survive me that my Children shall equally contribute to her support, as I am obliged to do by the Will of her Father Doctr Benjamin Stockbridge, that is one half the time –

        And I do hereby constitute & appoint my said Son John Winslow Esqr sole Executor to this my last Will & Testament – In Witness whereof & all which I hereunto set my hand & Seal this twenty fifth day of August in the year of our Lord eighteen hundred & fifteen 1815 –

Signed sealed & declared to be his last Will

& Testament in presence of us who in presence

of each other subscribe our Names as Witnesses

                Robert Cushman                                                                                                 Isaac Winslow      (seal)

                Joseph P Cushman

                Ruth Cushman

 

        In the name of God amen I Isaac Winslow of Marshfield in the County of Plymouth Physician still continueing in the possession of my reason & understanding do make & ordain this Codicil or Addition to my last Will & Testament by me executed on the Twenty fifth day of August in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and fifteen — Whereas by my said last will & Testament I have given to my beloved Wife Frances Winslow, among other things the Sum of three thousand Dollars, & considering the said Sum & other provisions made for my said Wife in said Will to be insufficient – I do hereby further give & bequeath to my said Wife the further Sum of one thousand Dollars $1000,00 – provided she relinquishes her right of Dower in my Estate otherwise what the Law will give her ~~

In witness whereof I the said Isaac Winslow have hereunto set my hand & Seal this fourteenth day of September in the Year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and nineteen –

Signed sealed & declared by the said Isaac

Winslow to be a Codicil to his last Will and

Testament in presence of us the Subscribers

who in his presence & in presence of each

other subscribe our Names as Witnesses –                                                                     Isaac Winslow                                  (seal)

                Robert Cushman

                Joseph P. Cushman

                Ruth Cushman

 

Presented for probate on 15 Nov. 1819 by John Winslow Esqr., the Executor therein named, and proved by Robert Cushman and Joseph P Cushman, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to John Winslow, the before named Executor.

 

Robert Cushman, yeoman, John Thomas, Gentleman, and Joseph P. Cushman, yeoman, all of Marshfield, were appointed to appraise the Estate of Isaac Winslow, late of Marshfield, Physician, on 15 Nov. 1819. The Inventory of the Estate of Isaac Winslow, late of Marshfield, dated 1 Dec. 1819, totaled $26,131.74, including his real estate which totaled $22,891, of which his homestead farm was valued at $20,000. John Winslow Esqr., the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 7 Dec. 1819.

 

John Winslow, Executor of the last will & Testament of Isaac Winslow, late of Marshfield, Physician, petitioned that the personal estate of the deceased is insufficient to pay all his just debts, legacies and incidental charges by $6000, and asked for license to sell part of the real estate, on 18 Feb. 1822, which was granted. 

 

David Oldham Junr, Robert Cushman and John Thomas, of Marshfield, were appointed to make a division of the real estate of Isaac Winslow, late of Marshfield, Physician, except such as may be sold to pay debts and legacies, among his four children John Winslow, Elizabeth Whitman, wife of Kilborn Whitman, Ruth S Dingley, wife of Thomas Dingley, and Sarah Clapp, wife of Ebenezer Clapp, on 5 Mar. 1822. The division, dated 27 Mar. 1822, was approved on 3 Sept. 1822.

 

Kilborn Whitman, of Pembroke, Esquire, was granted Administration de bonis non of the estate of Isaac Winslow, late of Marshfield, Physician, on 21 Oct. 1822, who appointed his son John Winslow Esqr. sole Executor of his Will, but he deceased before he had completed his Executorship of the estate.

 

John Thomas, Gent, and Robert Cushman, yeoman, both of Marshfield, and David Oldham Jr Gent., of Pembroke, were appointed to appraise all the remaining Estate of Isaac Winslow, late of Marshfield, Physician, on 21 Oct. 1822. The Inventory of the Estate of Isaac Winslow, late of Marshfield, was valued at $4038.00. Kilborn Whitman, the Administrator de bonis non on the Estate of Isaac Winslow, late of Marshfield, Physician, gave his oath to the inventory on 16 Dec. 1822.

 

Kilborn Whitman, of Pembroke, Esquire, Administrator de bonis non on the Estate of Isaac Winslow, late of Marshfield, Physician, petitioned that the personal estate of the deceased unadministered upon was insufficient to pay the just debts which he owed at the time of his death by $1200, and asked for license to sell part of the remaining real estate to satisfy the debts on 17 Feb. 1823, which was granted. Horatio Cushing and Thomas Dingley, administrators on the Estate of John Winslow, gave their approval on 20 Feb. 1823.

 

Kilborn Whitman, the Administrator de bonis non on the estate of Doct. Isaac Winslow, late of Marshfield, Physician, gave notice that the estate is insufficient to pay all the just debts which he owed at the time of his decease on 30 Aug. 1823.

 

Robert Cushman, Yeoman, and John Thomas, Gent., both of Marshfield, were appointed to receive and examine all the claims of the several creditors against the estate of Isaac Winslow, late of Marshfield, on 2 Sept. 1823. They applied for an extension of time on 1 Mar. 1825, and on 21 Oct. 1826 produced a list of claims against the estate totaling $28,662.26.

 

Kilborn Whitman of Pembroke, Counsellor at Law, Administrator de bonis non on the Estate of Doctor Isaac Winslow late of Marshfield, Physician, petitioned that the personal Estate of the deceased unadministered upon is not sufficient to pay the just debts which he owed at the time of his decease and the legacies given in his Will by $3000, and although license had been granted for the sale of Land in the County of Kennebeck in the State of Maine from Ariel Mann Esqr. Judge of the Probate of Wills for the County of Kennebeck in that county to the amount of $3000, yet the sales have been unproductive, and no debts have been paid, so he asked for license to sell other lands of the deceased, on 13 Nov. 1824. Thos. Dingley, Ruth Dingley, and Horatio Cushing, Administrator on the estate of J. Winslow, the Heirs at Law, gave their approval on 4 Dec. 1824, and Eben Clapp, John Winslow and Elizabeth Winslow acknowledged on 29 Nov. 1824.

 

Petition by Thomas Hobart as agent for several of the Creditors to the Estate of Dr. Isaac Winslow, late of Marshfield, regarding the Administration of Kilborn Whitman Esqr., that the bondsmen of sd. Whitman on his administration bond to sd Estate are wholly insufficient to cover the responsibility imposed on sd. Administrator, and requested that the Administrator furnish other and additional bondsmen in his capacity, or that he may be removed and some other person appointed in his place. Kilborn Whitman was removed as Administrator de bonis non on 14 Apr. 1827, and George P. Richardson of Duxbury was appointed to that trust in his stead.

 

George P. Richardson of Duxbury, Gentleman, was granted Administration de bonis non with the Will annexed on the estate of Isaac Winslow, late of Marshfield, Physician, on 14 Apr. 1827.

 

Robert Cushman, John Thomas, and Chandler Sampson were appointed to appraise all the Estate remaining of Dr. Isaac Winslow, late of Marshfield, on 16 Apr. 1827. The Estate was appraised at $7309.75 on 15 May 1827. George P. Richard, the Administrator de bonis non with the Will annexed, gave his oath to the inventory on 21 May 1827, and he petitioned for a license to sell the real estate to pay the debts of the estate.

 

Benjamin Whitman, Samuel K. Williams, and Joseph Woodward, all of the City of Boston, were appointed to appraise the Estate of Isaac Winslow, late of Marshfield, Physician, situated in the County of Suffolk, on 11 June 1827. The Estate was valued at $1200 on 21 June 1827. George P. Richardson, the Administrator de bonis non on the Estate of Isaac Winslow, gave his oath to the inventory on 13 Aug. 1827.

 

Final settlement was filed on 19 Jan. 1829.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 50, pp. 396-398 [Will and Codicil], 444-445 [Original Inventory]. from FHL microfilm #0550906, Vol. 54, p. 311-312 [First Petition & License to Sell Real Estate], Vol. 56, p. 73-80 [Division of Real Estate Among Heirs], Vol. 52, p. 453 [Administration de bonis non], Vol. 56, p. 308-309 [Inventory of Remaining Estate], Vol. 56, p. 430-431 [Second Petition & License to Sell Real Estate], Vol. 57, p. 287 [Declaration of Insolvency], Vol. 63, p. 164-166 [Commission on Insolvency and List of Claims], Vol. 58, p. 409-410 [Third Petition & License to Sell Real Estate], Vol. 63, p. 514 [Petition and Discharge of Administrator], Vol. 61, p. 461-462 [Administration de bonis non], Vol. 64, p. 27-28 [Fourth Petition & License to Sell Real Estate], Vol. 64, p. 188 [Inventory in Suffolk County].

 

 

Will of James Winslow of Rochester, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1732) *

In the name of God Amen. This Eleventh Day of February Anno Domini One thousand Seven hundred & thirty one, two. I James Winslow of Rochester in the County of Plymouth in the Province of the Massachusetts Bay in New England Yeoman, Do Make & Ordain this my last Will & Testament. Imprims. I Give & Commit my Soul to God yt. gave it, & my Body to the Ground to be buried after my Decease at the Discretion of my Executor: And as touching such Worldly Estate as it hath pleased God to Bless me with, I Give & Dispose of the Same in Manner following —First My Will is that my Executor pay all my just Debts out of my Lands & I hereby Give him full Power to Sell the Same or any Part thereof as he shall See Cause to pay sd Debts withall as fully as I my self could now do, With the Buildings upon ye Same if he see best, and also that he pay my Funeral Charges & the Charges of Settling my Estate out of my sd Lands – Item I Give to my dearly beloved Wife Elizabeth besides what She is Endowed with by a Covenant before Marriage or by any Agreement made to any of my Children since Marriage one Room in my Now Dwelling house for her to live in during her being my Widow if She see cause to live in it, and inasmuch as She may be at considerable Labour & Pains in tending Me in the time of my present Sickness I Give my sd. Executor full Power to Set her off such a Part of my moveable Estate as he shall see Cause & to make her Such further Recompence as he may be sensible to be best all Cases with their Circumstances considered. Item my Will is that all my Lands that shall be left after my just Debts & Funeral Charges shall be paid shall be equally Divided between my four Sons And it to be to them my sd. Sons Seth James Job & Peter & to their Heirs forever They paying out to my two Daughters Mary & Bathsheba as followeth, That is to Say It is determined by me that my Son Seth hath already had Thirty Pounds worth of my Estate in Way of Portions & my Daughter Mary fourty five Pounds worth & my Daughter Bathsheba hath had but twenty five Pounds Now my Will is that Each of my Children shall have an equal Portion of my Estate according to Law those allowances being Reckoned to Each Child that hath had as abovesd as Part & then if my Estate shall reach to make every Child equal to what the highest hath had and any left for the Surplusage to be equally divided And the Daughters to have their Shares in money if the Sons chuse to keep ye Lands as abovesd. But if not then for my sd. Daughters to have their equal Parts of ye. Land & it to be to them & their Heirs forever

And I do hereby Nominate & Appoint my Son Seth sole Executor of this my last Will & Testament And where I Say in this my Will that my Estate should be divided according to Law I Mean & Intend Every Child an equal Part & not for my Son Seth to have two Shares or a double Portion But in Consideration of his being my Eldest Son I Give him if this my Will be Approved of ye. Sum of ten Pounds worth of Lands more than his Equal Share with the rest of my Children or in his Moveables at his Election. Finally I do Ratify this & no other to be my last Will & Testament. In Testimony whereof I have hereunto Set my hand & Seal the day & year first abovewritten—

Signed Sealed Published Pronounced &                                                                         James Winslow                                 (seal)

Declared by me the sd James Winslow

as my last Will & Testament —

In Presence of Thomas Turner

Mark Haskall  Ephraim Haskall

Timothy Ruggles

 

Proved on 20 Sept. 1733 by Timothy Ruggles, on 21 Sept. 1733 by Mr. Thomas Turner, and on 25 Sept. 1733 by Ephraim Haskall.

Letters of Administration were granted to Edward Winslow, of Rochester, because Seth Winslow, the executor, refused and renounced the executorship, on 7 Nov. 1733.

 

The Inventory of all the Goods & Estate of James Winslow, late of Rochr., deceased, was appraised by Roger Haskall, John Freeman, and Saml. Wing on 2 Mar. 1733/4, and totaled only £67.12.3. Edward Winslow Esqr., administrator of the estate of James Winslow, gave his oath to the inventory on 6 Mar. 1733/4.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 6, pp. 398-399, 446, from FHL microfilm #0550512.

 

 

Will of John Winslow of Rochester, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1852) *

In the Name of God Amen I John Winslow of Rochester in the County of Plimouth Yeoman, This eleventh Day of January A1752, being of perfect Mind & Memory thanks be Given to God therefor calling to mind the mortality of my body, & Knowing it is Appointed for all men Once to Dye, do make and Ordain this my last Will & Testament. vizt. Principally and first of all I Give and recommend My Soul into the hands of God that Gave it, and My body I recommend to the earth to be Buried in Decent Christian Burial at the Discretion of my Execrs Nothing doubting but at the Generall Resurrection I shall Receive the same again by the mighty power of God, and as Touching Such worldly Estate wherewith it hath pleased God to bless me in this Life I Give Demise & Dispose of the same in the following Manner & Form

Imps.  My Will is That all my Just Debts & Funerall charges shall be first paid out of my Personall Estate

Item  My Will is That my true and Loving wife Bethiah Winslow shall have the Improv of all my Real Estate after my Decease till my fourth Son Lemuell Winslow is of lawfull age, And after that to have the One half thereof, so long as She Remains my Widdow and also My best bed & Furniture and also One third part of the Remaining part of my Personall Estate

Item  I Give to my Eldest Son John Winslow One shilling to be paid him by my Execrs after my Decease, having allready Given him his Portion in my Estate by deed –

Item  I Give to my Second Son Jedediah Winslow one shilling to be paid him by my Execr. After my decease having already Given him his Portion in my Estate by Deed

Item  I Give to my Third Son Nathaniel Winslow my wareing apparell after my decease, having allready Given him the Rest of his Portion in my Estate in a Blacksmith Trade

Item, I Give to my Fourth Son Lemuell Winslow the Improvment of one half of my Real Estate After he comes to lawfull age, till his Youngest Brother Prience Winslow comes to lawfull Age, and then sd. half part to be & belong to them in Equall Partnership till the Improvments I have herein Give to their Mother Ceases, and then to have the whole of my Real Estate not before Disposed off in Equall Partnership and in case either or both shall dye & leave no Issue, then their respective Rights in what I shall give them in this My Will shall be Equally Divided between the Surviving Brethern Exclusive of my Son John Winslow

Item, I Give to my two Youngest sons namly Lemuell Winslow & Prience Winslow in Equall Partnership, the whole of my Real Estate not before Disposed off Including what I have Given their Mother therein, in this my Will, after her Right Ceases According to the Rule Given in the Parragraft immediately preceeding this

Item  I Give to my Daughter Deborah Sherman Three pounds in lawfull Money or Aquivalent in My Personall Estate at the election of my Execrs. She having Received the Rest of her Portion at Marriage

Item, I Give to my Youngest Daughter Elizabeth Winslow the Remaining part of my Personall Estate after her Mother’s Right is taken out

Finally I Constitute make and Ordain my Loving wife Bethiah Winslow & My Son John Winslow my Execrs of this my last Will & Testament & I do hereby Utterly Disallow Revoke & Disanull all and every Other Former Testaments, Wills Legacies and Bequests, and Execrs by me in any ways before named Willed & Bequeathed, ratifying & Confirming this and no other to be my last Will & Testament

In Witness whereof I have hereunto Sett my hand & Seal the day & Year above written

Signed, Sealed, Published                                                                                                  John Winslow                                   (seal)

Pronounced & Declared by the

sd. John Winslow as his last

Will & Testament

In the presence of us Subscribers

Seth Blackwell

Noah Sprague Junr.

Noah Sprague

James Dexter Junr.

 

Presented for probate on 16 July 1755 by the Execrs therein named, and proved by Seth Blackwell and Noah Sprague, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Bethiah Winslow Widdow, and John Winslow, both of Rochester, the Executors, on 17 July 1755.

 

The Inventory of the Estate both reall & personall that Deca. John Winslow Late of Rochester Deceased Dyed Seized off, was appraised on 12 July 1755 by Noah Sprague, Edward Doty and Silas Briggs, and totaled £277.3.3, including his real estate valued at £213. John Winslow, one of the Executors, gave his oath to the inventory on 16 July 1755.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 13, pp. 511-513, 524-525, from FHL microfilm #0551540.

 

 

Will of John Winslow of Wareham, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1755) *

In the Name of God Amen I John Winslow of Wareham, In the County of Plimo., being of perfect mind & Memory Blessed be God therefore calling to mind the Mortallity of my Body knowing it is appointed for all Men once to die do make & ordain this my last will & Testamt. that is to say Principally & first of all I give & recomend my soul into the Hands of God who gave it me & my body to the earth to be burid in a decent Christian Buriall at the Discretion of my Execr. hereafter namd. & as to worldly Estate I do dispose of it in the following manner viz.

Imps. I give to my beloved wife Mary as her Right of Dower the whole use & improvemt. of all my real & Personall Estate both both within Doors and without during her naturall Life.

Item I give unto son William Winslow his heirs & assigns forever after My wifes decease all my Estate both real & Personall Housing out Housing lands meadow &c lying & being in wareham aforesd. or else where He paying my Just Debts funerall charges & Legacies, hereafter mentioned

Item I give to my daughter Faith Randall Five shillings to be pd. her one year after my decease. -- -- --

Item I give to my daughter Elener Besse Five shillings a year after my decease. -- -- --

Item I give to my daughter Sarah Turner Five shillings a year after my decease. -- -- --

Item I give to my daughter Mary Wood Five shillings a year after my decease. -- -- --

Finally I do appoint & ordain my son William to be the Sole Execr. of this my Last Will & Testamt. & do hereby disanull & revoke all & every other Will & Testament made by me & do ratify & Confirm this to be my last Will & Testament In confirmation whereof I have hereunto Set my Hand & Seal this 5th. day of December 1755.                                                                                    

Signd. Seald published                                                                                                         John Winslow                   (seal)

and declared by me

the sd. John Winslow

As My last

Will & Testa-

ment In ye.

presence

of these

Witnesses

viz

Thomas Whetten

Roland Thacher

Martha Thacher

 

Presented for probate on 3 Apr. 1758 by the Executor therein named, and proved by mr. Rowland Thacher and Thomas Whetton, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to his son William Winslow of Wareham, the Executor, on 3 Apr. 1758.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 15, p. 27-28, from FHL microfilm #0551543.

 

 

Will of John Winslow of Rochester, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1773) *

I John Winslow of Rochester in the County of Plimouth Gent. being somthing advanced in years, but throug Gods Goodness of sound & disposing mind & memory, and calling to mind the uncertainty of this life do make & ordain this my last Will and testament, recomending my Soul to the Merciful hands of God that gave it and my body to be buried in decent Christian burial after my decease at the discretion of my Executors hereafter named and as to such worldly estate wherwith it hath pleased God to bless me with in this world I give and dispose of in manner & form following

Imprimis, It is my will and I do herby Constitute & appoint my beloved wife Bethiah & my son Stephen Winslow Joint Executors to this My last will & testament

Item, I Give to my said wife Bethiah the same to be to her & her heirs & assigns forever my best bed & furniture to the same belonging together with one third part of my estate real & personal that is to say in the same way & manner as the law of this province provides for the widdows of husbands that die Intestate.

Item, It is my will and I do herby Order my executors to pay my Just debts and funeral Charges Out of my personal estate, first taking out the Legacys herin given and if there shall not be personal Estate Sufficient to pay my debts & charges as aforesaid then I hereby impower my said Executors to sell lands enough with my personal estate Sufficient to pay my debts & Charges aforesaid, and what lands shall be sold for the purposes aforesaid if any be sold to pay debts & Charges to be were it shall be least prejudicial to my heirs, and if there shall be Need of disposing of any land for the said purposes I do here by impower said Executors to Give & Execute Good Deed or Deeds of the same.

Item. I Give to my son Stephen Winslow One shilling to be paid him by his mother in a year after my decease, that together with the lands and other things I have already Given him to be his part of my Estate.

Item. I Give to my daughter Bethiah the wife of Increase Clap, One Shilling to be paid by my Executors Out of my Estate in a year after my decease that together with what I have already Given her to be her part of my estate.

Item, I give to my daughter Keziah the wife of Elijah Dexter One shilling to be paid by my Executor Out of my Estate in a year after my decease that together with what I have already Given her to be her part of my estate.

Item. I Give and bequeath to my three sons viz John Winslow Lemuel Winslow & Micah Winslow & the same to be to them their heirs and assigns forever the whole of my Estate both Real and be the same whatsoever or whersoever the same is or may be found to be equaly divided between them after the Debts legacys & Charges are paid.

Item. I Give and bequeath to my daughter Abigail Winslow twenty six pounds thirteen shillings & four pence to be paid in Support & Maintenance by my Executors out of my Estate & if that be not Sufficient to Support her til her death or Mariage then & in that case it is my will and I hereby order my said three sons John Lemuel & Micah in equal parts between them to support & mantain my said daughter Abigail until her death or Mariage.

Item. I Give and bequeath unto my daughter Deborah Winslow twenty Six pounds thirteen Shillings & four pence to be paid out of my estate by my Executors in a Cow and houshold Goods at the day of her arrival at eighteen years of age or day of her Mariage.

Item. I Give and bequeath to my daughter Elizabeth Winslow twenty Six pounds thirteen shillings & four pence to be paid out of my Estate by my Executors in a Cow & houshold Goods at the day of her arrival at eighteen years of age, or the day of her Mariage.

Item. I Give and bequeath to my daughter Sarah Winslow twenty Six pounds thirteen Shillings & four pence to be paid out of my estate by my Executors in a Cow & houshold Goods at the day of her arival at eighteen years of age or the day of her mariage.

In Testimony of the above and the within written I the said John Winslow have herunto set my hand & Seal the thirteenth day of January A.D. 1773.

Signed Sealed published pronounced

and declared to be the last Will and

testament of me the said John

Winslow, in presence of us.                                                                                               John Winslow                   (seal)

Elnathan Haskell

Nicholas Crapo

Joshua Morse

Zadock Stertevant

Wm. Nye

Nathl Ruggles junr.

Nathl Ruggles

 

Presented for probate on 2 May 1774 by Bethiah Winslow widdow and Stephen Winslow, the Executors therein named, and proved by Zadock Stertevant and William Nye, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration Cum testament annexo were granted to Seth Dexter of Rochester on 2 May 1774, the before named Executors having renounced the Executorship.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of John Winslow Gent late of Rochester was appraised on 28 Apr. 1774 by Thomas Whitredg, Melatiah White, and David Wing, and totaled £567.4.0, plus an additional £16.10 in livestock, including his real estate under Mortgage valued at £213.6.8, and his other real estate valued at £276.13.4. The appraisers gave their oath to the inventory on 29 Apr. 1774, and Seth Dexter, Admr. cum testament annexo, gave his oath to the inventory on 2 May 1774.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 21, p. 458-561. Note: there is a page numbering error in Vol. 21. Page 460 was followed by page 561.

 

 

Will of John Winslow of Rochester, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1776) *

in the Name of God amen this fourth day of July in the year of our Lord Christ one thousand seven Hundred & Seventy Six I John Winslow of Rochester in the County of Plymouth yeoman being of Sound Mind & Disposing Memory Knowing that it is appointed for all men once to Die I Do make this My Last Will and testament in maner & form as followeth first & princably I Recommend my Soul to God that Gave it me & my body to the Earth to be Decently buried at the Discration of my executrix here after named & as touching Such worldly Estate as it hath pleased God to Bles me with I Give & bequeth in maner and form as followes

imprimis my Will is that all my Just Debts & funeral Charges Should be paid by my executrix out of my Live Stock

item I Give & bequeth unto my Well beloved Wife Dorcas Winslow one third of the Remainder of my moveable Estate & the improvement of one third of my Real Estate During her natural Life. I Like Wise Give her my best Horse Kine & one cow these things I Give Her in Lew of Her Right of Dower & power of thirds

item I Give & bequeth unto my Five Sons (after the Legaces here after Given to my two Daughters namely Mary Winslow & Dorces Winslow are paid) all the Remainder of my Estate not yet Disposed of both Real & personal to be Equily Divided between them namely to Nathan Winslow His Heirs & assigns one Sixth part & to Kenelm Winslow His Heirs & assigns one Sixeth part & to Ebenezer Winslow His Heirs & assigns one Sixeth part & to Timothy Winslow His Heirs & assigns the one Sixth part & to paul Winslow His Heirs & assigns the one Sixth part & to John Winslow the other Sixth part but in Case Either of these my Said Sons be taken away by Deth before my Departure or their ariving to the age of twenty one years that then that Shear or Shears Shall be Equily Divid between the Sirvirving Brethern & their Heirs Equilly

item. I Give & bequeth to my two Daughters namely Mary Winslow & Dorcas Winslow the use & improvement of my new Building that Joins to the Side of My Dwelling House for them to Dwell in that is to Say the two upper Rooms there of & Liberty to wash in the Seller under Sd House & to improve my Lettle Garden & have fire wood Standing to Keep a fire all the above privileges & alow to Each of them So Long as they Remain unmaried & I Like wise Give to Each of my Said Daughters twenty pound in Bills of Credit Either Continetal or Provincial to be paid them by my Executrix when they arive to the age of Eighteen years or time of marrig (my Will that there Should be Land Sold by my Executrix for the payment of Said Legaces & I Do impower her to Give Legall Conveyence of So much Lands as to pay them when they become Due.) I Like wise Give unto my Said Daughters two thirds of my My indoar move able Estate (Except my waring appariel) to be Equily Divided between them. it is my Will that if Either Sd Mary or Dorcas be taken away by Deth before they arive to the age of Eighten or marriage that Her part Should be Equily Divided among My Surviveing Children.

Lastly I nominate & appoint My well beloved Wife Dorcas Winslow Sole Executrix to this my Last will & Testement & I Do Sign Seal pronounce & Declare this to be my Last Will & testament in presence

[can’t read name]                                                                                                                John Winslow                                   (seal)

John Oliver

Job Chadwick

 

The personal estate of John Winslow, late of Rochester, was appraised on 2 July 1777 by Samuel West, Seth Dexter, and David Wing, and totaled £256.18.2. His real estate was appraised on 22 Sept. 1777 by Seth Dexter, Samuel West, and William Shearman, and was valued at £1660. Seth Dexter gave his oath to the personal inventory on 3 July 1777, and Dorcas Winslow, the Executrix, gave her oath to the inventory in Oct. 1777.

 

Enoch Hammond Esqr, Seth Dexter, and Phillip Turner, yeomen, all of Rochester, were appointed to set off to Dorcas Winslow, the widow of John Winslow, late of Rochester, yeoman, her Dower or thirds of the Real Estate of John Winslow, and to divide the remainder into six equal parts or shares, and assign one part each to Nathan Winslow, Kenelm, Ebenezer, Timothy, Paul and John, the Sons of the deceased, on 2 Aug. 1779. The division was dated 19 Aug. 1779, and approved on 8 Sept. 1784.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Docket #23196, the will not recorded in the Probate Books, and Vol. 29, p. 197-201.

 

 

Will of Kenelm Winslow of Marshfield, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1749) *

                In the Name of God Amen. I Kenelm Winslow of of Marshfield in the County of Plimouth within the province of the Massachusetts Bay in NewEngland Esqr. being thro’ the Goodness of God of a Sound and Disposing mind & memory Altho’ Sensible of my approaching end, and Knowing that it is appointed for all men once to die, doe make this my Last Will and Testament in manner following~

Imprs. I Committ my Soul to God that Gave it, and my body to a decent Christain Buriall at the Discretion of my Execrs. hereafter named in Hopes of a Mersifull Resurrection to life Eternall and as to the Estate God in his providence hath bestoed upon me my mind and Will is it Shall be disposed of in the followg. Manner~

  Item I give and Bequeath unto my beloved wife Ann Winslow the use and Improvement of the best Room in my now dwelling House also the use of Two of my Servents (which She Shall choose) to attend & wate on her with the Improvement of My Riding Chair and a Suteable Horse for the same, and also all such Articles & things as may be Convenient & Comfortable for her Support and maintenance during the time of her remaining my Widow to be Procured and Provided for her by two Sons – Kenelm & Joseph Winslow equally, and it is to be in full of her power of thirds and right of Dower in my sd. Estate

Item I Give and Divise unto my Two Sons Kenelm Winslow and Joseph Winslow, and to them their Heirs & assigns forever All my Real Estate both Housing and lands meadows & Cedar swamp Lying & being in the Township of Marshfield or whereso ever else the same is or may be found to be equally Divided between them, my son Kenelm to have his Choice in the Division, I also Give to my two Sons Kenelm Kenelm & Joseph to be equally Divided between them, Two Yoke of Oxen with all my Husbandry Tools and utencils, and doe also order & Direct them the sd. Kenelm & Joseph to Procure & provide for their Mother Ann Winslow all such articles and things as may be Necessary & Convenient for her Support in Order to render to render her life as hapy & Comfortable as it is capable of in her Old age.

Item I give and Bequeath unto My Daughter Sarah Smith and to my Granddaughter Mary Pain a Quarter or fourth part of all my personall estate that remains undisposed off, to be Equally Divided between them, but in case my sd. Grandaughter Should die before She arrives to the age of Eighteen Years Unmarried then it is my mind & Will that her Mother Sarah Smith Shall have and Injoye what I have in this my said Will Given her, Item I Give and Bequeath to my Daughter Abigaill Lewis and Faith Taylor and to my Grandson Nathaniel Winslow, the son of my son Nathaniel Winslow deced three Quarters or all the remaining part of my Personal estate to be Equally Divided between them the said Abigaill– Faith and Nathaniel, Lastly I doe hereby Constitute and appoint my said Two Sons Kenelm & Joseph Winslow Joynt Execrs. of this my Last Will and Testament, Revoking and Disanulling all former Wills by me heretofore made, hereby ratifieing and Confirming This to be my Last Will and Testament  In Witness whereof I have hereunto Sett my hand and Seal this fifth day of January AD1749,

Signed Sealed Published & Pronounced

& Declared, by the said Kenelm Winslow                                                                      Kenelm Winslow                              (seal)

to be his last Will and Testament

                In Presence of

Samuell Hill

John Thomas

Thomas Waterman

 

Presented for probate on 19 July 1757 by the Executors therein named, and proved by John Thomas and Thomas Waterman, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Kenelm Winslow of Marshfield, Esqr. and Joseph Winslow of Boston, County of Suffolk, Merchant, the Executors, to faithfully execute the said Will, on 19 July 1757.

 

  To the Honble. John Cushing Esqr. Judge of the Probate for the County of Plimouth ~  Humbly sheweth Ann Winslow wido. of Kenelm Winslow late of Marshfield deced in the said County, that the said deced’s last Will & Testament has been exhibited into the Probate office of sd. County, by which that Provision which I apprehend Necessary for me is not made, wherefore I do hereby refuse to except thereof, and Pray that I may have my Dower in all the said deced’s real Estate assigned to me & Also Necessary Utensills for House Keeping, Marshfield Aug 11th. 1757,

                                                                                                                                                Anna Winslow

The Inventory of the estate of Kenelm Winslow late of Marshfield, Esqr., was appraised by Jonathan Peterson, Thos. Waterman, and Thomas Foord Junr, but not dated, totaled £3880.9.4½. Kenelm Winslow and Joseph Winslow, the Executors, gave their oath to the inventory on 11 Aug. 1757.

 

John James Junr. of Scituate, Benjamin Turner and Israel Turner of Pembrooke, Nehemiah Thomas of Marshfield, and Ebenezer Fish of Duxborough were appointed to set off to Mrs. Ann Winslow Widow & relict of Kenelm Winslow, late of Marshfield, Esqr., her dower or thirds in the deceased’s real estate, on 24 Mar. 1758. The division was approved on 1 May 1758.

 

Know all Men by these Presents that I Jonathan Hillard do hereby acknowledg that I have Receved of Kenelm Winslow & Joseph Winslow Exrs. of the Testament of Kenellem Winslow Late of Marshfield in the County of Plymouth Esqr. Deceased the full of the Legasies Give in Said will to Mary Hillard granddaughter of Said Deceased and therefore I do hereby discharge Said Executor from the Legasie aforesaid and all Demands Touching & Concerning the Service witness my hand & Seal March 24th 1761

Signd Sealed & Deliverd

In Prence of                                                                                                                          Jonathan Hiller                                   (seal)

Elizabeth Whitemore

Hannah Clap

 

Know All Men by these Presents that we Isaiah Lewis Saml. Smith William Tailor & Nathl. Winslow Do hereby Acknowledge that we have Recd. of Knellem Winslow and Joseph Winslow Exrs. of the Testament of Knelem Winslow Late of Marshfield in the County of Plymouth Esqr. Decd. The full of the Legasies given In Said Will To Sarah Smith, Abigail Lewis & faith Tailor Daughter of Said Deceased and Nathll. aforesaid Grandson of Said Deceased and therefore we Do hereby Discarge sd. Executors from the Legasies aforesaid and all Demands Touching & Concerning the Same Witness our hands and Seals Decr. 3d. 1760

Signd Sealed & Deliverd                                                                                                     Isaiah Lewis                                         (seal)

In Presence of                                                                                                                      Samll. Smith                                          (seal)

Jno Cushing                                                                                                                           Wm. Tailor                                             (seal)

John Turner                                                                                                                          Nathll. Winslow                                    (seal)

Plymouth Sc Decr. 4th. 1760 the above named Mr. Isaiah Lewis Saml. Smith Wm. Tailor & Nathaniel Winslow Acknowledge the above Instrument to be their act (Deed

                                                                                                                Before me Jno Cushing Judge of Probt.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 14, pp. 293-295, 441-442, 516-518, from FHL microfilm #0551542, and Vol. 16, p. 170-171.

 

 

Will of Micah Winslow of Rochester, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1804) *

  In the name of God amen. I Micah Winslow of Rochester in the County of Plymouth Yeoman, knowing it is appointed for all men once to die, & that it is my Duty to Set my House in order for such a Change, & being now through the Goodness of God of a sound & disposing Mind & Memory do constitute the following to be my Will and Testament.—

      Imprimis and in the first place I recommend my Soul to God that gave it, & my Body to the Earth to be buried in decent Christian Burial at the Discretion of my Executrix – And as touching the Estate wherewith God hath blessed me in this Life, I give & bequeath to my faithful & dearly beloved Wife, Hannah, all my Estate real & personal in Goods Chattels Rights & Credits, that I possess, or may possess or that shall be mine at the time of my decease to be hers & her Heirs & Assigns forever.—

   And I do hereby constitute & appoint her to be sole Executrix of this Will, revoking & disannulling all others, I declare this, & this only to be my last Will & Testament –

   In Testimony whereof, I hereunto set my hand & affix my Seal this thirtieth day of November in the Year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred & four. 1804

Signed sealed published and

pronounced in presence of us

                Caleb Mendal                                                                                                       Micah Winslow.                                (seal)

                Charles J Holmes

                Abrm Holmes

 

Presented for probate on 20 May 1816 by Hannah Winslow, the Executrix therein named, and proved by Caleb Mendal and Charles J. Holmes Esqrs., two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Hannah Winslow, the before named Executrix.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 48, p. 61-62, from FHL microfilm #0550905.

 

 

Will of Capt. Nathaniel Winslow of Marshfield, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1709) *

The Twentieth day of February Anno Domini One Thousand Seven hundred and nine. I Nathaniel Winslow of Marshfield within the County of Plymouth In New England being at present under some bodily weakness but of Sound Mind and memory praised be God for the same, and Calling to mind the uncertainty of this my life upon earth and being desireous to Settle things before my death do therefore make and declare this my Last Will and Testament in Manner and form following: Hereby Revoaking Nullifying and making void any former Will or Wills by me heretofore made and declared either by word or writing, and this Only to be Taken for my Last Will and Testament and no Other.

Imprimis. I Humbly Commit my spirit and eternal Concerns to the mercy of God in Jesus Christ and my body to the earth whensoever it Shall please God to take me hence And Touching my outward estate which God hath blessed me with my Will and meaning is that the Same shall be Employed and bestowed according as in and by this Will Shall be Expressed.

Item I give and bequeath to Faith Winslow my dear and well beloved wife the Moiety ore one half of all my Housing and Lands in Marshfield and the One half of all my goods and Chattells except such part of sd. goods and Chattells as I Shall hereby Otherwise dispose of to hold the same to her my sd. wife so long as She Shall Continue my widdow; The sd. half of the goods and Chattells to be at her dispose but if She Shall Again Marry then my mind is that She Only enjoy her dower in my sd. Housing and Lands, and the One Third part of goods and Chattells that is to say The Thirds of my sd. houses and Lands or the rents and profits of them during the time of her natural Life, and the said Third part of goods and Chattells at her Own dispose forever.  Item. I give and bequeath unto my eldest Son Nathaniel all that my Land at Shewammet where he lives and is in the Improvement of that is to say the 12th. and 13th. Lots lying upon Taunton River, and One Other Lot of Land Lying On the Other side of the way against the Head of the Other Lotts before named being of the Last division. Item I give and bequeath unto my son James all that Land which I have given him a deed on.

Item. I give and bequeath Unto my son Gilbert all that Land that I have given him a deed On. Item. I give and bequeath to my son Kenelm after the decease of my wife the One half of my houses and Lands in Marshfield Excepting my Right of Common. Item. I give and bequeath unto my son John all that Land being & Lying in Little compton which I purchased of Samuel Crandall and which he gave a deed of to my said son John. To hold the Same to them and their heirs for ever.

Item. I give and bequeath unto my daughter Eleanor Jones the Sum of Sixty pounds to be paid out of my goods and Chattells by my executors that I shall hereafter name within a year after my decease at the farthest And the Residue of my estate if any be in goods and Chattells to be divided among all my sd. Children as followeth. To my eldest Son Nathaniel a double Share thereof to be equally devided among the Other of my Sons and daughter: Also my Will is that if my sd. wife Shall se Cause again to Marry that then so much of my estate viz Goods and Chattells as She Shall have recieved by Vertue of this my Will more than third part of the same that She then deliver it up to my Said Children to be equally devided among them.  And Lastly I hereby Nominate & appoint my well beloved wife above named and my said son Nathaniel to be the Joynt Executors of this my last Will and Testament. In Testimony whereof I the sd. Nathaniel Winslow have hereunto Set my hand Seal On the day and year first Abovewritten

Signed Sealed & declared by the sd. Nathaniel                                                              Nathaniel Winslow                          (seal)

Winslow to be his last Will & Testament In prsence of us

Isaac Winslow,  Sarah Winslow,  Elisabeth Burton.

 

March the 7. 1719/20. Sarah Winslow and Elisabeth Burton made Oath that they heard the above named Nathaniel Winslow direct his name to be Set to the abovewritten Instrument; they saw him seal it and heard him declare it to be his last Will and Testament, and that at the Same time he was According to their best Observation of a Sound and disposing mind and memory.  Taken before me

                                                                Isaac Winslow Judge of probates

 

The Will of Capt. Nathaniel Winslow late of Marshfield was proved, approved and allowed for probate on 1 Aug. 1720, and Letters of Administration were granted unto Faith Winslow relict widdow of the sd. deceased and unto Nathaniel Winslow the eldest Son of the sd. deceased and joynt Executors.

 

The Inventory of the estate of Capt. Nathaniel Winslow late of Marshfield, dated 1 Jan. 1719[/20], was appraised by John Kent and Nathan Thomas, and totaled £282.6.~, with several other items added to the inventory untotaled. Faith Winslow and Nathaniel Winslow, the Executors, gave their oath to the inventory on 23 Jan. 1720.

 

*  Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 4, pp. 254-256, 277-278, from FHL microfilm #0550510.

 

 

Will of Nathaniel Winslow of Marshfield, Plymouth County, Massachusetts Bay (1785) *

In the name of God Amen – On the twenty fourth day of December Annoque Domini, one thousand, seven Hundred & eighty five, I Nathaniel Winslow of Marshfield in the County of Plymouth in the State of the Massachusetts Bay in New England, yeoman, upon Serious Consideration, and being under some decays of nature, but of perfect mind & memory, thanks be Given unto God therefor, Calling to mind the mortality of my body and knowing that it is appointed for all men once to die, do make & ordain this my Last will and testament, that is to say, principally & first of all I Give & Recommend my Soul into the hands of God that Gave it, and my body I Recommend to the Earth, to be buried in a decent Christian manner at the discretion of my Executor herein named, nothing doubting but at the General Resurrection I shall Recieve the same again by the mighty power of God, and as touching such worldly Estate wherewith it hath pleased God to bless me in this Life, I Give, bequeath & dispose of the same in the following manner & form ~

Imprimis – my will is that all my just debts & funeral Charges be paid out of my Estate ~

Item – I Give & bequeath unto my well beloved wife Lydia the improvement of one third part of the whole of my Real Estate, during her Life, and I Likewise Give her for her use & disposal, my Horse & Horse tackling, together with one third of all my Personal Estate, Excepting my wearing apparell and walking Cane

Item–I Give & bequeath unto my dutiful & only Child Ruth Wadsworth the improvement of the Other two thirds of my Real Estate during her Life and if she Survives her mother, I then Give her the improvement of the other third part of my Real Estate also, during her Life, and I Likewise Give her all my Personal Estate Except that which I have Given to my wife, my wearing apparell & walking Cane & one Cow ~

Item– I Give & bequeath all my wearing apparell unto my three Grand Children, Winslow–Ichabod & Nathaniel for their use as their mother shall think proper ~

Item–I Give & bequeath a Cow, though not my best, unto my Cousin Ruth Cushman ~

Item– I Give & bequeath at the time of my Daughters decease, if my Daughter Survives my wife, the whole of my Real Estate unto my Daughters Child or Children who Shall Survive their mother, to be equally divided between them if there should be more than one, but if my wife Survives my Daughter, then my will is that the Child or Children Last mentioned Should have at their mothers decease only that part of my Real Estate of which I Gave her the improvement, and so to have the other part of my Real Estate of which I Gave my wife the improvement at their Grand mother’s decease ~

Item – if either of my Daughters Children, which She now has, or may have hereafter Shall decease before their mother, and Shall Leave a Child or Children then my will is that the Child or Children so Left should have the Legacy which the parent would have had if Living, equally divided between them if more than one

Item–I do hereby Constitute & appoint my trusty & dutiful Son in Law Luke Wadsworth to be Sole Executor of this my Last will & testament, and do hereby Revoke and utterly disallow & disannul all & every other former testament, wills, Legacies, Bequests & Executors by me in any ways before named willed & bequeathed, Ratifying & Confirming this & no Other to be my Last will & testament–In witness whereof I have hereunto Set my hand & Seal the day & year above written

Signed, Sealed, Published, Pronounced and de-

clared by the said Nathaniel Winslow to be his                                                             Nathaniel Winslow          (seal)

Last will & testament in the presence of us the

Subscribers

                                Paul Sampson

                                Luther Thomas

                                John Bourn junr

 

Presented for probate on    April 1786 by Luke Wadsworth, the Executor therein named, and proved by Paul Sampson and Luther Thomas, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Luke Wadsworth, the before named Executor.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 30, p. 65-67, from FHL microfilm #0550716.

 

 

Will of Sarah Winslow of Marshfield, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1753) *

In the Name of God Amen —

I Sarah Winslow of Marshfield in the County of Plimouth Widdow being in Good helth and of Disposing Mind and memory do Make this my last will and Testament in Manner following

First I Committ My Soul into the hands of God that Gave it Trusting only in the Merits and Mediation of Jesus Christ for the pardeon of all my Sins and for Salvation, and I Committ My Body to the Earth to be Buried Decently at the Discretion of My Executor Hereafter named and the worldly Estate yt. God hath Lent me I Give and Bequeath as followeth—

Imprimis. I will that all my Just Debts and Funeral charges be paid by my Executor

Item, I Give and Bequeath to My son John Winslow the four pictures, and my Great Black Walnut Table—

Item I Give and Bequeath to My son Edward Winslow my largest Silver Salt Celler

Item, I Give and Bequeath to My Sister Hopestill Oliver the Sum of Ten pounds Old Tenour as a Token of my love to her

Item My will is that my Wearing Apparell my Gold Chain rings and Buttons be Equally Divided Into two parts and One Half thereof I Give and Bequeath to My Daughter Elizabeth Marston, and in case She Die before me I Give the Same to the Children she Shall Have at my Decease; and the other Half of My said Apparell, Chain rings and Buttons, I Give to my Grand Children, Ann Warren and Sarah Warren Daughters of Penelope Warren my Daughter Deceased and in case either of them said Grand Daughters Shall die Before me I Give her share and part to the Children She shall have Liveing at My Decease, and in Default of such Children then I Give the whole to the Survivor of My said two Grand daughters —

Item I Give and Bequeath to My Three Grand Children, Namely James Warren Junr. Ann Warren, and Sarah Warren the Children of My Daughter Penelope afore named the Sum of fifty pounds Old Tenour as an Equivalent to Divers peices of Houshold Stuff that I have given to my Daughter Elizabeth Marston Aforenamed Since my Husbands Decease, and in case any of my three Grand Children last Named shall Die before me Then I Give his or her share and porportion so Dying to his or her Children Liveing at My Decease and for Default as Such Children then I Give the whole to the Survivor or Survivors of the said James, Ann and Sarah—

Item, I Further Will that all My personall Estate Goods & Chattles, not heren before Bequeathed and all Debts to me Due, Shall be Divided Into two Equall parts & Shairs and One Half of My said Goods Chattles & Debts I Give and Bequeath to My said Daughter Elizabeth Marston and in case she Die Before Me I Give and Bequeath the Same to her Children that Shall be Liveing at My Death and the Other Half of My said Goods Chattles and Debts I Give to My said Three Grand Children, James Warren Junr. Ann Warren and Sarah Warren, Equally to be Divided among them, and In case the said James, ann or Sarah Die before me Then I Give his or her portion of said half of My Goods Chattles and Debts aforesaid to the Children of him or her (so Dying) that Shall be a live at my Death and in Default of Children of him or her so Dying then I Give the whole to the Survivor, or Survivors —

Item I here by Make and appoint My said Grandson James Warren Junr. My Soul Executor of this My last Will Testament and Do Hereby revoke and Declare Void all former Wills by me Made and Declare this to be My last Will and Testament.  In Witness whereof I have hereunto Set My Hand and Seal This fifth of September A. D. 1753 –

Signed Sealed, Published and                                                                                           Sarah Winslow                                 (seal)

Declared by the Testator for her

her last will and Testament in

presents of us who Subscribd.

as Witnesses Thereto—

        Ephraim Cobb

        Nathl. Goodwin

        James Curtiss

 

Presented for probate on 4 Feb. 1754 by the Executor therein named, and proved by Ephraim Cobb and James Curtiss, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to James Warren Junr. of Plimouth, Marchant, the Executor, on 4 Feb. 1754.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 13, p. 201-203, from FHL microfilm #0551540.

 

 

Will of Snow Winslow of Marshfield, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1769) *

                                                In the Name of GOD, Amen.

  I Snow Winslow of Marshfield in the county of Plymouth in New-England yeoman, being under infirmities of body, but of sound mind and memory blessed be God for it, and calling to mind my mortality do hereby make this my Last will and testament, and first of all I recomend my soul into the hands of God that gave it, and my body to the earth to be decently interred by my executor hereafter-named in hopes of a resurrection to life eternal through the merits of Christ the Great-Redeemer; and as to the worldly goods and estate with which it hath pleased God to bless me in this Life, I do hereby give and dispose of the same in the manner & form following viz. ~

Imprimis, I give and bequeath to my son Snow Winslow all my homestead-farm whereon I now dwell with all the buildings & fences thereunto belonging, and all my Land and meadow Lying both in Marshfield and Duxborough, with all the privileges & appurtenances thereunto belonging, and one good feather bed & furniture, and all belonging to it, and also my youngest yoke of oxen, and my iron tooth harrow, together with all my husbandry tools, and my horse, & saddle, & bridle, and also all my swine, and all my corn & grain; and I give it to him as his portion, and for his Labõr done for me since he was for himself, and to oblige him to take care of and provide for me the time I have to Live, and also to pay his grandmother Deborah Winslow her dower which I am obliged to do during her natural life. ~

Item. I give to my son Josiah Winslow, all my wearing apparel, and my gun & sword, with the sum of seven pounds, & twelve shillings, Lmoney and one bed & furniture, and one yoke of oxen, which he has already received, and I give it to him as his portion, and for his Labõr done for me.

Item. I give to my daughter Lidia Winslow, one bed & furniture, and one cow.

Item. I give to my two daughters viz Lidia Winslow & Deborah Winslow, four beds & furniture and all my cattle & sheep, with all my personal estate not before disposed of, to be equally divided between them after my doctor,s funeral-charges, and all my just debts are paid out of it. And I give it to them as their portion and for Labõr which they have done or may do for me. and also I give them the privilege of Living in my house, in the southeast room, and of setting their houshold goods in the southeast chamber, and also the Liberty of the cellar, oven & well, during the term that they shall live unmarried.

Item. I do constitute & appoint my son Snow Winslow to be the sole executor to this my Last will & testament, and I hereby utterly renounce & revoke all other & former wills, and hereby ratify & confirm this & no other to be my Last will & testament.   In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this third day of November in the year of Our Lord one thousand, seven hundred & sixty nine, 1769.~

Signed, sealed, & declared by the sd. Snow Winslow

to be his last will & testament in presence of us.                                                           Snow Winslow                  (seal)

John Bourn

Thomas Dingley

Nehh. Thomas

 

Presented for probate on 5 Feb. 1770 by Snow Winslow, the Executor therein named, and proved by Nehemiah Thomas and John Bourn, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Snow Winslow, the Executor.

 

The Inventory of the estate of Snow Winslow, late of Marshfield, was appraised on 12 Feb. 1770 by Thomas Waterman, Nathl. Winslow, and Nehh. Thomas, and totaled £1043.19.4¾, including his real estate valued at £740. Snow Winslow, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 8 Mar. 1770.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 20, pp. 323-324, 346, from FHL microfilm #0550711.

 

 

Will of Ichabod Wiswall of Duxbury, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1700) *

I Ichabod Wiswall of Duxborough in ye County of Plimouth being weak of Body but of Sound mind and memory praised be God for ye Same Do make this my last Will & Testament in manner and forme following that is to say First I Commit my Body to ye Earth to be Decently Buryed when it shall pleas God to take me home And my Soul into ye hands of God my Saviour in Sure & Certaine hopes of a joyfull Resurrection and Reunion through the precious Merrits of Jesus Christ my Lord & onely Redeemer. And for ye Disposall of my outward Estate which God hath Graciously give me my mind and Will is the same Shall be Disposed as in this my Will is Set down. First I have already Given to my Eldest daughter ye Wife of ~ Elisha Wadsworth her portion of my Estate And is as much as I have to Give to any other of my Daughters: Item I Give and Bequeath unto my Welbeloved Wife Pricilla All my Housing and Lands Lying in ye Township of Duxborough for & During the Time of her Naturall Life or otherwise so long as She shall Continue my Widdow: Item I Give and Bequeath to my Son Peleg one half of all my Lands & meadows both salt & Fresh meadows to him & his heirs for Ever at Sippican.

Item I Give and Bequeath unto my four daughters Mercy Hannah Pricilla & Deborah The other half of all my Lands meadows at Sippican alias Rochester in Equall parts to them and their Severall heirs for Ever.

Item I Give and Bequeath to my said four daughters All my lands at Sagadehock or Kenebeck in ye Eastern parts of this Countrey being one hundred Acres be ye same more or less to them & their Respective heirs for Ever.

Item I Give and Bequeath to my Son Peleg All my Houses & Lands uplands & meadows lying in the Township of Duxborough to be possessed and Enjoyed by him after ye Decease of his Mother or her Second marriage to him & his heirs for Ever.

Item I Give and Bequeath to my son Peleg all my Books and thirty pounds in money Towards his Education at ye College.

Item I Give and Bequeath All my other goods & chattels & moneis to my Welbeloved Wife Pricilla for ye Bringing up of my Children & her Support and Comfort during her life. & at her discretion to bestow amongst my children

Item I Nominate and Appoint my welbeloved Wife Pricilla to be Sole Executrix of this my last Will and Testament In Witness Whereof I have hereunto set my hand and Seal ye twentyfifth day of May 1700.

                                                                                                                                                Ichabod Wiswall                              (seal)

Signed Sealed and Declared by ye above named

Mr Ichabod Wiswall to be his last will and

Testament In ye presence of us

Alexander Standish

John Sprague

Samuel Seabury

John Wadsworth

 

John Sprague Samuel Seabury and John Wadsworth three of ye Witnesses here named Appeared before William Bradford Esqr Judge of Probate on ye 19th day of August 1700 And made Oath that they were present & Saw and heard Mr Ichabod Wiswall ye Testator above named Sign Seal and Declare this Instrument to be his last Will & Testament And that to ye best of their Judgment he was of Sound Disposing mind & memory when he did ye same

                                Attest Saml Sprague Register

 

Priscilla Wiswall, the wife of Mr Ichabod Wiswall, late of Duxborough, deceased, was granted administration of his estate of 19 Aug. 1700.

 

An Inventory taken of ye Estate of ye Lately deceased Mr Ichabod Wiswall this nineth day of August 1700 By us whose names are under written.

[Total Sum £351.15.00]

The House and Lands not Apprised nor ye part of ye saw mill at Rochester nor Lands at or near Nazhaganset & Sagadehock alias Kenebeck

                                                                                                                Edward Southworth  Thomas Delano

 

Mrs Priscilla Wiswall Executrix of the Last Will of her Late Husband Mr Ichabod Wisewall Late of Duxboro^ Deceased made oath in Plimouth August 19th 1700 That ye above written is a true Inventory of ye Goods Chattels & Credits of ye sd Deceased so far as she knows & that if more Shall Come to her knowledge She will Cause it to be Added.

Before William Bradford Esqr

                                                                                                                Attest Saml Sprague Register

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 1, p. 325-326.

 

 

Will of Azariah Witon of Plympton, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1772) *

                                In the Name of GOD, Amen.

  Azariah Witon of the town of Plimpton in the county of Plymouth in New England yeoman, Labouring under many infirmities of body which are symptoms of aproaching mortality, but of perfect & disposing memory thanks be given allmighty GOD for the same, but calling to mind the mortality of my body and knowing that it is apointed for all men once to dye, do make and ordain this my Last will & testament. First, I will and bequeath my soul to GOD that gave it me, and my body to the dust to be decently buried at the discretion of my executor hereafter-named, nothing doubting but I shall receive the same again by the mighty power of GOD.

        Item. I will and bequeath unto my Loving wife Elizabeth Witon the one third part of the improvement of all my estate both real & personal during her natural life, my just debts and funeral charges being first paid out of said estate. I also give unto my said wife the improvement of all my estate both real & personal until my loving son John Witon shall arrive to the age of twenty one years old, she paying all my just debts and funeral charges out of said estate. –

        Item, I will and bequeath unto my Loving son Thomas Witon the one half of my estate both real & personal that is left after my just debts & funeral charges are all paid out of said estate, and my loving wife,s improvement of said estate as aforesaid, he paying such legacies as I shall apoint him to pay in this will. I do give all the abovesaid estate as above expressed, unto my said son Thomas Witon, & unto his heirs & assigns forever.

        Item. I will and bequeath unto my Loving son John Witon the other half part of all my estate both real & personal that is left after my just debts and funeral charges are all paid out of said estate and my Loving wife’s improvement of said estate as aforesaid, he paying such legacies as I shall appoint him to pay in this will. I do give all the abovesaid estate as above expressed, unto my said son John Witon, and unto his heirs & assigns forever.

        Item. I will and bequeath unto my loving daughter, Phœbe Bradford the wife of Simeon Bradford the sum of three pounds beside what she hath allready had, to be paid her by my Loving son Thomas Witon within two years after my loving son John Witon shall arrive to the age of twenty one years old to be paid her in money or movable estate to the value thereof. I do give the abovesd. three pounds unto my said daughter Phœbe Bradford, & unto her heirs & assigns forever.

        Item I will and bequeath unto my loving daughter Hannah Donham the wife of Israel Donham the sum of three pounds, beside what she hath allready had, to be paid her by my loving son John Witon within two years after he shall arrive to the age of twenty one years old, to be paid in money or movable estate to the value thereof: — I do give the abovesaid three pounds unto my said daughter Hannah Donham, & unto her heirs & assigns forever.

        Item. I will and bequeath unto my loving daughter Priscilla Witon, the sum of four pounds, to be paid her by my Loving son Thomas Witon within two years after my son John Witon shall arrive unto the age of twenty one years old, to be paid in money or movable estate to the value thereof. I do give the abovesaid four pounds unto my said daughter Priscilla Witon, & unto her heirs and assigns forever.

        Item, I will and bequeath unto my Loving daughter Patience Witon, the sum of four pounds, to be paid her by my Loving son John Witon within two years after he shall arrive to the age of twenty one years old, to be paid in money or movable estate to the value thereof. I do give the abovesaid four pounds unto my said daughter Patience Witon, and unto her heirs & assigns forever.

        Item. I will & bequeath unto my loving daughter Elizabeth Witon the sum of four pounds in money or movable estate to the value thereof to be paid her within two years after my loving son John Witon shall arrive unto the age of twenty one years old, that is to say, two pounds thereof to be paid her by my loving son Thomas Witon, & the other two pounds to be paid her by my loving son John Witon I do give the abovesaid four pounds unto my Loving daughter Elizabeth Witon and to her heirs and assigns forever.

                                                                                                Lastly I do nominate & appoint My Loving wife Elizabeth Witon to the sole executor of this my Last will & testament, hereby revoking all other & former wills either written or verbal by me here tofore made, hereby ratifying & confirming this my Last will to remain firm & inviolable.   In testimony whereof I the aforesaid Azariah Witon have hereunto set my hand and seal the thirtieth day of September, and in the year of our Lord one thousand, seven hundred, seventy & two. 1772. —

Signed, sealed, & pronounced & declared by the sd.

Azariah Witon to be his last will & testament in pres-                                                 Azariah Witon                                   (seal)

ence of us.   Silvanus Donham, Simeon Donham, Thomas Doty.

 

Presented for probate on 4 May 1773 by Elizabeth Witon widow of the deced, the executrix therein-named, and proved by Silvanus Donham and Simeon Donham, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Elizabeth Witon, the before-named executrix.

 

The Inventory of the estate of Azariah Witon, late of Plimpton, was appraised on 14 May 1773 by Samuel Lucas, Silvanus Donham, and Eleazar Crocker, and totaled £205.10.1, including his homestead & buildings, meadow & woodland adjoining to sd. homestead, and cedar-swamp at Beaver dam swamp, valued at £143.8.8. Elizabeth Witon, the Executrix, gave her oath to the inventory on 17 May 1773.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 21, p. 306-307, from FHL microfilm #0550712.

 

 

Will of Azel Wood of North Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1829) *

Be it remembered that I Azel Wood of North Bridgewater, in the County of Plymouth and State of Massachusetts Cordwainer, do on this twenty seventh day of March in the year of our Lord, One Thousand eight hundred & twenty nine, make and publish this my last Will and Testament in the manner following, to wit,

  First I declare it to be my desire that my beloved wife Eliza should have and retain all my Estate of whatsoever kind – Real and Personal, And I do hereby give and bequeath the same to her and her heirs —

                I also nominate and appoint Eliza Wood my said Wife Executor of this my last will and Testament.

                In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand & seal the day and year above written.

                                                                                                                                                Azel Wood                                          (seal)

   The above instrument was signed sealed and published by the said Azel Wood, who declared the same to be his last Will & Testament in presence of us who at his request subscribed our names in his presence as witnesses thereto—

        Benjamin Kingman

        John W Kingman

        Julia Ann Washburn

 

Presented for probate on 2 June 1829, and proved by Benjamin Kingman and John W Kingman, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Eliza Wood of North Bridgewater, Widow, the Executrix, on 2 June 1829.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 67, p. 73-75, from FHL microfilm #0555259.

 

 

Will of Benjamin Wood alias Atwood of Middleborough, Colony of New Plymouth (1690) *

These are to Inform all persons whome it may Concern that whereas Benjamin Wood alias Atwood of the Town of Middlebury being prest upon their Majst Service against Canada and as he was Going to Plimouth on the nineteenth Day of july 1690-Did Desire us whose names are under written to take knowledge that If it should So please God that he should not Return again that he did First Give unto his Brother James Wood Alias Atwood all his whole Estate. And the said James Wood alias Atwood to pay all his just debts and to performe his Engagement toward the maintenance of his Mother.

as Witness our hands

John Tomson Senr

John Allin

 

Mr John Tomson Senr and John Allin The witnesses here named appeared personally in Plimouth Before William Bradford Esqr Deputy Governr and Mr Ephraim Morton Associate and made oath that they were present with the above named Benjamin Wood at the time above written and heard him Declare his mind and Will as abovesaid

December ye 5th 1690                                                                                         Attest Saml Sprague Clerk


Entered & recorded December ye

11th 1690. yt Saml Sprague, Recorder

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Benjamin Wood, deceased, was appraised on 2 Dec. 1690 by David Thomas and John Allin, not totaled, but small, his house and lands valued at only £15.0.

 

James Wood Brother of Benjamin Wood Late of Middleborough deceased made oath in Plimouth the 5th Day of December 1690 that this above written is a true Inventory of the Estate of the said deceased so far as he knows and that if more shall be Discovered to him he will make it known: Before William Bradford Deputy Governr and Ephraim Morton Associate, Who then Granted him Liberty to administer on said Estate according to the Will of sd deceased.

                                                                                                                                Attest Saml Sprague Clerk

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 1, p. 78.

 

 

Will of David Wood of Middleborough, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1737/8) *

In the name of God Amen. David Wood of the Town of Middleborough in the County of Plymouth in New-England Yeoman being very Sick but of perfect & disposing Memory Thanks be given unto almighty God for ye. Same but calling to mind the Mortality of my Body and knowing that it is appointed for all men once to die do make & ordain this my last Will & Testament –

Imprims. I Will & Bequeath my Soul to God that gave it and my Body to the Dust to be decently buried at ye. Discretion of my Executor hereafter named Hoping through the Merits of Christ for ajoyfull Resurrection And as touching such worldly Estate wherewith it hath pleased God to bless me in this Life I Dispose of as followeth – Item I will & bequeath unto my Wife Joanna Wood the Sole Improvemt. of my whole Estate both real & personal so long as She shall remain my Widow, My just Debts & Funeral Charges being first paid and if in Case She shall marry again my Will is She shall have the Sum of fourty Pounds in Bills of Credit or in Moveables to the value thereof out of my Estate to be her own forever –

Itm My Will is that after my Wifes Decease or Marriage again that then my loving Son Edmond Wood shall have two fifth Parts of my whole Estate both real & personal after my just debts being paid out as abovesaid –

Itm I Will & Bequeath unto my loving Son David Wood one fifth Part of my whole Estate both real & personal personal (That is to Say) after my Wifes Decease or Marriage agn. my just Debts being first paid

Itm I Will & Bequeath unto my loving Son Francis Wood one fifth Part of my Whole Estate both real & personal after my Wifes Decease or Marriage again as abovesaid –

Itm I Will & Bequeath unto my loving Daughter the remaining fifth Part of my Whole Estate both real & personal after my Wifes Decease or Marriage as abovesaid –

Lastly I Nominate my loving Wife Joanna Wood to be the Sole Executrix of this my last Will & Testament hereby Revoking all other & former Wills Either written or verbal by me heretofore made or done hereby ratifying & confirming this my last Will & Testament to remain firm & inviolable In Testimony whereof I the aforesd David Wood have hereunto Set my Hand and Seal this Eighth Day of February Annoq Domi. Seventeen hundred & thirty Seven – 1737/8 –

                                                                                                                                                David Wood                                      (seal)

Signed Sealed Pronounced & Declared

by the sd David Wood to be his last

Will & Testament In Presence of

Peter Thacher

John Wood

Joseph Lucas

 

Probated on 27 Sept. 1738, and proved by Revd. Mr. Peter Thacher, Mr. Joseph Lucas and Mr. John Wood, the three witnesses.

 

*Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 7, p. 450-451, from FHL microfilm #0550513.

 

 

Will and Codicil of Edmand Wood of Middleborough, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1791) *

Know all men that I Edmand Wood of the Town of Middleborough in the County of Plymouth & Commonwealth of Massachusetts Yeoman being weak of Body yet of a sound memory & Understanding (blessed be God for the same) yet considering the mortality of the Body & that it is appointed for all men once to die, do make & ordain this my last will & Testament to be firm & inviolable forever –

        Imprimis I give and bequeath to my Son Edmand Wood junr. one fourth part of my real Estate of all kinds whatsoever to have & to hold to him his Heirs & assigns forever. –

        Item I give & bequeath to my Son Joshua Wood 2d. one fourth part of my real Estate of all kinds whatsoever to have & to hold to him his Heirs & assigns forever. –

        Item I give & bequeath to my son Francis Wood one fourth part of my real Estate of all kinds whatsoever to have & to hold to him his Heirs & assigns forever –

        Item I give & bequeath to my Son Peter Wood one fourth part of my Real Estate of all kinds whatsoever to have & to hold to him his Heirs & assigns forever. I also give and bequeath to my said Son Peter all my live Stock & all my outdoor moveables of all kinds, together with all my dues & demands on any person or persons whatsoever also my wearing Apparel, Arms & Warlike Utensils & all other Estate of all kinds (excepting my indoor moveables and household utensils,) he paying out of the above bequests, all my just debts & funeral charges & Legacies which I hereafter in this Instrument give to my Daughters as hereafter particularized. –

        Item I give to my Daughter Patience the wife of Lt. James Smith one half of all my indoor moveables & household Utensils. Also the value of thirteen Pounds six shillings & eight pence to be paid in some good merchantable specifick Article at a price proportionable to Corn at three shilling a Bushel to be paid & delivered to her or her Heirs in twelve months after my decease by my said Son Peter out of what I have herein before given him.—

        Item I give & bequeath to my Daughter Priscilla the Wife of Perez Churchill junior one half of all my indoor moveables & household Utensils. And also the value of thirteen Pounds six shillings & eight pence to be paid in some good merchantable specifick Article at a price proportionable to Corn at three shillings a Bushel to be paid & delivered to her or her Heirs in twelve months after my decease to be paid by my said Son Peter out of what I have herein before given him.–

        And my will is & I hereby constitute & appoint my said Son Peter Wood sole Executor to this my last Will & Testament. thus hoping that this my last will & Testament will be kept & performed according to the true Intent and meaning thereof I commit my Soul to the Hands of God who gave it & my Body to the Dust to a decent Burial in witness whereof I have hereto set my hand & Seal this third day of June in the Year of our Lord one Thousand Seven hundered ninety one –

signd. seald. & declard. by the sd. Edmand to be

his last Will and Testament in presence

of us —                                                                                                                                  Edmand Wood                                  (seal)

Lewis Cobb

Ancil Wood

Nehh. Bennet

 

Know all men by these presents that this Codicil to the foregoing Will witnesseth that I Edmand Wood of Middleborough who have signd. & seald. the foregoing Will contained on this sheet of paper do at this time see cause to make the following Alteration to the said Will, that is, that the said Legaises of thirteen thirteen Pounds six shillings & eight pence, which I have given to each of my two Daughters as therein mentiond. which I therein directed to be paid in some good merchantable specifick Articles at a price proportionable to Corn at three Shillings a Bushel, shall be paid in the same kind of Articles at the Common going price at the time when they by my said Will become due – In Witness whereof I the said Edmand Wood have hereto set my hand & Seal this tenth day of April in the Year one Thousand eight hundred –

signd. seald. & declared by the sd. Edmand Wood to be

his present Will in alteration to the foregoing Will.

        Zacheus Wood                                                                                                             Edmand Wood                                  (seal)

        Elizabeth Cushman

        Nehh. Bennet.

 

Presented for probate on 4 Feb. 1806 by Peter Wood, the Executor therein named, and proved by Ansell Wood, Nehemiah Bennet Esqr. and Zacheus Wood, three of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Peter Wood, the before named Executor.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 40, p. 387-388, from FHL microfilm #0550901.

 

 

Will of Elnathan Wood of Middleborough, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1752) *

In the Name of God (Amen this first day of April Annogrie Domini One thousand seven Hundred & fifty two I Elnathan Wood of Middleborough in the County of Plimouth Yeoman being Sick and weak of body but of perfict and Disposing Mind & Memory thanks be to God Calling To Mind the Mortality of My Body & Knowing that it is Appointed for all Men once to die I do Ordain this My Last Will and Testament Vizt.

Imprs  Principally and first of all I Give and Recommend my Soule into the Hands of God that Gave it Hopeing for Etarnel Salvation Onely and Alone in and throught the Merits of Jesus Christ. My dear Saveour and My body I Reccommend to the Earth to be Decently Buried at the Discretion of My Executor Hereafter named Hopeing for a Gloreous Resurrection through the Mity Power of God. and as Touching that worldly Estate with which it Hath Pleased God to bless me in this Life I Give and Bequeath the Same in Manner following, vizt,

Item  I Give and Bequeath unto My dear & well beloved wife Patience Wood Eight Pounds Lawfull Money to be paid hir by my Executor the One Half one Year After My Decease and the Other within two years after My Decease Together with hir Bed She brought to me with all the Beding made as Good as they then ware. and all the Other things She brought to Me, which are Now Lef togather with one Half of My Part of the Last Years flax & Half of My Part of the wood this year and also one Half My Part of the meat in the House & what Corne She Needeth for this year

Item  I Give & Bequeath unto My Son Ephraim Wood his heirs & Assigns what I own of that lot of Land I bout of Leuit Thomas Knoulton Excepting only when the weasterly line comes to be Run which Begins at the Northerly corner being a bunch of burches near the End of the Dich in the Meddow Said Line Shall run as formerly untill it Comes unto astake and heap of Stones about fourteen Rod from the Brook uppon the South Side of the Brook, from thence by astrate Line unto aStake & Heap of Stones in the Line between My House & My sd. Son Ephraim’ House, and from the Stake mentioned to Keep the Same Course thirty pol & then to turn Squaire of to the Propper Line of said Lott

I Give Unto My said Son Ephraim all the above said Lot of land Excepting the Several peices Taken out as abovesaid allways Reserveing unto [blank] of My Heirs away where now it is Trod Topass & Repass across said lot at all times forever. Hereafter I allso Give it My sd. Son Ephraim Wood the Improvement of My Field lying on the sawmill Hill between the Land of Samuel Bennet and the Land of Benja Hayford untill my Grandson & His son Elnathan Wood arive to the age of twenty one years & then unto sd. Elnathan his heirs & assigns forever always Reserveing away for my heirs to pass & Repass through the same forever.

Item  I Give and Bequeath unto My five Daughters Vizt.— Jemima Els Jeddida Eddy Marey Conant Lydia Tomson and Juda Washburne all my Houseing and Lands that Have not been Heretofore in this my last Will & Testamt. disposed of and as to My Moveble Estate My will is that all My Six Children Shall have them Equally Divided among them After My Just Debts and funaril Charges is Paid and that my wairing Cloths and Gun Shall be in My Son Ephraim’ part of Said Movebles and further My will is that My abovesaid wife shall have all the Yarn I shall leave in the House and further My will is that Not withstanding my Giving away my Houseing and Lands as abovesd. Yet My son Jonathan Washburn Shall have the Emprovement of them During his lease and then to Cum into the possession of the Persons to whom the are Given as abovesaid and that My Just Debts and Funirail Charges Shall be paid out of my Moveble Estate before Division is made And I do Hereby Ordain & appoint My Son inlaw John Tomson to be Executor of this My Last Will & Testament. In Witness whereof I the sd Elnathan Wood the Testator have hereunto put my Hand & Seal the Year & day first above Written

Signed Sealed & Deliverd Published

Pronounced & Declared by she sd                                                                                    Elnathan Wood                                 (seal)

Elnathan Wood the Testator to be

his last will & Testament in Presents

of us the Subscribers

Benja. Hayford

         hir

Jane  +  Washburne

         mark

Ezra Clap

 

Probated on 15 May 1752, proved by Ezra Clap & Benja. Hayford.

John Tomson of Middleborough, Yeoman, was approved as the Executor.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 13, p. 34-36, from FHL microfilm #0551540.

 

 

Will of Deacon Ephraim Wood of Middleborough, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1738) *

In the Name of God amen the twentyeth day of May Anno Dom 1738. The last will & Testament of Deacon Ephraim Wood of Middleboro. in the County of Plymouth in New England who is at present Sick & under bodily infirmyties, But thro Gods Goodness of sound & Disposeing Mind & Memory, Do hereby make this to be my last will and Testament, principally & first of all I Commit my Soul to God that gave it in hopes of pardon & forgiveness of my Sins in & through the Lord Jesus Christ the Saviour & Redeemer of Mankind and my body I Committ to the Earth to be decently Buried at the Discretion of my Executor In hopes of a Glorious Resurrection, and as to the worldly Estate God has blessed me with I Give & dispose of as follows; –

Imprimis It my will That all ye Debts & funerall Charges be paid in Convenient time after my Decease –

2  I Give to my Beloved wife Patience Wood One full Third part of my Personal Estate to be at her own dispose & two third parts of the Income of my Real Estate till my son Manassa Comes to twelve years of Age & then She to have her thirds in my real Estate according to Law Dureing her life—

3  I Give all my housing Lands meadows & Cedar Swamp & the whole of my real Estate to my sons Josiah Wood Samuel Wood Ephraim Wood & Mannassa Wood their Heirs & assigns forever, to be Equally divided between them Reserveing Two thirds of the Income thereof to my wife till my son Manassa comes to be twelve years old & her thirds afterwards Dureing life as aforesd. But if my son Ephraim shall not Confirm so far as in him lyes the Sale I have made of the Estate that was his Uncle Seth Howlands, Then he to have in the Division of sd. Real Estate Sixty five pounds less then his proportion to an Equal Division & his Brothers to have that Sixty five pounds and pay him so much if he quits his Claim to his uncles Estate –

4  I Give to my Daughter Rebecca Bartlett forty pounds Value in bills of the old tenour besides what she has allready had provided she quits her Claim to her Uncle Seth Howlands Estate which I have Sold, But if She refuses to do that then I Give her but five Shillings –

5  I Give to my Daughter Barsheba Wood the sum of forty pounds bills of Credit as they now pass or the Value of them to be paid her at the age of Eighteen years or Day of mariage and allso a handsom Wedding Suit & a Good Bed and Furniture, and I order my Executor to pay the Legacys Given my Daughters –

Finally I Constitute my son Ephraim Wood to be Executor of this my last will and Testament hereby Confirming this & no other to be my will as Witness my hand & Seal the date aforesd.—

Signed Sealed Declared by

Deacon Ephraim Wood to be

his Last will & Testament                                                                                 Ephraim Wood                 (seal)

In Presence of us

Samuel Barrows

Samuel Wood

Elkanah Leonard

 

Presented for probate on 12 July 1744 by the Executor, and proved by Samuel Barrows and Samuel Wood, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration granted to Ephraim Wood of Middleborough, the Executor, on 12 July 1744.

 

Deacon Samuel Barrow, Capt. Nathaniel Southworth, and Mr. John Bennet, all of Middleboro., were appointed to appraise the estate of Deacn. Ephraim Wood, late of Middleboro., on 12 July 1744. The Inventory was dated 31 July 1744, and totaled £999.13.0, including his house and barn with one acre of land valued at £440, and 13 acres of land adjoyning to Mr. Thatcher’s land valued at £150. Ephm Wood, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 7 Aug. 1744.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 9, pp. 269-270, 349, from FHL microfilm #0551533.

 

 

Will of Ephraim Wood of Middleborough, Plymouth County, Massachusetts Bay (1783) *

   In the name of God Amen– I Ephraim Wood of Middleborough in the County of Plymouth in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, yeoman, being weak in body & very Sick but of a Sound and disposing mind and memory, blessed be God for the same, wherefore Calling to mind the mortality of my body and knowing that it is appointed to all men once to die do make and ordain this to be my Last will and testament to stand and Remain firm and Inviolable forever; principally and first of all, I Give and Recommend my Soul unto that God that Gave it and my body I Recommend unto the dust from whence it Came, to be buried in decent Christian burial at the discretion of my Executor hereafter named, nothing doubting but at the General Resurrection I shall Recieve the same again by the mighty power of God and as touching such worldly Estate wherewith it hath pleased almighty God to bless me withal, I do dispose of the same in the following manner and form vizt

Imprimis – I Give and bequeath to my true and well beloved wife Sarah Wood, during her natural Life the use and improvement of one third part of all my Estate both Real and personal for her Right of Dower and power of thirds

Item – I Give and bequeath to my Eldest Son Elnathan Wood and to his heirs and assigns forever (Excepting my wife’s Dower) the one half of all my Lands & buildings Excepting my Right in a Saw mill, I also Give unto him my Cart and wheels and Gun, and half of my wearing apparell, by his pay and doing as I shall hereafter in this my Last will & testament order

Item – I Give and bequeath to my Son Reuben Wood and to his heirs and assigns forever all of the Remaining part and Residue of my Real Estate that I have not heretofore Given away including all my Right in a Saw mill, and also the Other half of my wearing apparell, by his paying as I shall hereafter in this my Last will and testament order –

Item – I Give and bequeath to my two daughters (vizt) Jerusha Wood & Rebecca Wood and to their heirs and assigns forever three pounds six shillings & Eight pence Each to be paid them by my Son Elnathan Wood in one year next after my decease I also Give to each of my said two daughters Ten pounds to be paid them in one year after my decease by my Son Reuben Wood, I also Give to my said two daughters after my Just debts and funeral Chares are first paid, two thirds of all the Residue of my personal Estate together with two thirds of all the debts that are due to me to be be equally divided between them, I also Give to my said two daughters (to be equally divided between them two thirds of the Personal Estate that I have Given to my said beloved wife after her decease, I also Give to my said two daughters Liberty to Live in my dwelling house so Long as they shall Live unmarryed

Item– I Give and bequeath to my daughter Jedidah Billington wife to Francis Billington and to her heirs and assigns forever thirteen pounds six shillings & Eight pence to be paid to her or her heirs by my Son Elnathan Wood or his heirs when & only when my said Son Elnathan shall think best or order, and after that my Just debts and funeral Charges are first paid, I Give my said daughter Jedidah the Remaining part of all the personal Estate that I have not heretofore in this my Last will and testament Given away, as also after my said Loving wife’s decease I Give to my said daughter Jedidah One third part of the personal Estate that I have Given to my said beloved wife, Each and every of the things that I have Given to my sd daughter Jedidah I Give only with this Reserve that they shall be put and kept on my sd Son Elnathan’s hands or Care and delivered to his said Sister Jedidah Billington when and only when my said Son Elnathan shall think proper for her benefit–Furthermore as I have made and ordained this and this only to be my Last will & testament I do now forever disannul, Revoke and disallow all former wills that that have been heretofore made by me

Lastly – my will is and I do hereby appoint my Eldest Son Elnathan Wood to be Sole Executor to this my Last will and testament, thus hoping that this my Last will and testament will be kept and performed according to the true intent and meaning of it–In Testimony whereof I the afore named Ephraim Wood have hereunto Set my hand and Seal this Sixth day of November One thousand Seven hundred Eighty and three

Signed Sealed, published, pronounced &                                                                       Ephraim Wood                 (seal)

declared by the afore named Ephraim Wood

to be his Last will & testament in the pre-

sence of us

                Benjamin Warren

                Mary M  Lyon

                Isaac Tomson

 

Presented for probate on 1 Dec. 1783 by Elnathan Wood, the Executor therein named, and proved by Benjamin Warren and Isaac Tomson, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Elnathan Wood, the before named Executor.

 

Joshua White esqr., and Isaac Thompson yeoman, both of Middlebo, and Daniel Fobes of Bridgwater, yeoman, were appointed to appraise the estate of Ephraim Wood, late of Middlebo, yeoman, on 1 Dec. 1783. The Inventory of the estate of Ephraim Wood, dated 20 Dec. 1783, totaled £422.12.1, including his real estate valued at £305.14. Elnathan Wood, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 6 Oct. 1788.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 29, p. 68-70, from FHL microfilm #0550715, and Vol. 30, p. 455-456.

 

 

Will of George W. Wood of Rockland, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1881) *

Be it remembered that I George W. Wood of Rockland in the County of Plymouth, and Commonwealth of Massachusetts, being of sound and disposing mind and memory, but knowing the uncertainty of this life, do make this my last will and testament.

After the payment of my just debts and funeral charges I bequeath and devise as follows,

First. I bequeath and devise to my beloved wife Catherine R. Wood, to hold during her life, all the real estate and personal property of which I shall die seized or possessed, or to which I may be entitled.

Second. After the decease of my said wife I bequeath and devise said estate, real and personal, and all incomes and profits thereof then due, to my son George W. Wood, Junior.

                In testimony whereof I hereunto set my hand and in the presence of three witnesses declare this to be my last will this twenty sixth day of January A D. 1881.

                                                                                                                                                George W. Wood                             (seal)

On this twenty sixth day of January A D. 1881, George W. Wood of Rockland, Plymouth County, Massachusetts, signed the foregoing instrument in our presence, declaring it to be his last will, and as witnesses thereof we three do now at his request, in his presence and in the presence of each other, hereto subscribe our names.

                                                                                Leander Curtis

                                                                                Alfred D. Payne

                                                                                Geo. W. Kelley

 

Presented for probate on the second Monday of April 1881 by Catharine R. Wood, of Rockland, no executor being named in the will, and she was granted administration of the estate of George W. Wood, late of Rockland, on 11 Apr. 1881.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 143, p. 578-579, from FHL microfilm #0556649, and Vol. 151, p. 40.

 

 

Will of Henry Wood of Middleborough, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1751) *

In the Name of God Amen I Henry Wood of Middleborough, in the County of Plimouth in New England, being weak of body & Decais of Nature But of a Sound & disposing Memory and Understanding, Blessed be God for the Same –

Wherefore Calling to Minde the Mortality of My Body & knowing that it is Appointed for all Men once to die do Make and Ordain this to be My Last Will & Testament To Stand & Remain firme & Invoilable for Ever, Principaly & First of all I Give & Recomend my Soule into the Hands of God that gave it, & My Body I Recommend Unto the Dust to be Buried in decent Christian Buriel at the Discretion of My Execrs Nothing Doughting But at the Generail Resurrection I shall receive the Same Again & as Touching Such Worldly Estate wherewith God Hath Blessed Me in this life I do Dispose of the Same in the Following Manner & forme –

Imps. I give and Bequeath Unto my True & Well Beloved Wife Mary Wood all My Moveble Estate both in dore and Out door to be hir own & likewise the use & Improvement of the Square Room in My dwelling House & the Chamber Over it with Bed Room & Seller Together with the Improvement of one Half My farm Dureing hir Naturall Life

Item, I Give & Bequeath Unto My Son Henry Wood all my homsteed as it May Appear By Deed to him & to his heirs and Assigns for Ever & He Shall pay Unto My Son Moses Wood the Sum of fourteen pounds Lawfull Money & Unto My Daughter Joanna Wood the Sum of foureteen Pounds Lawfull Money & Unto My Daughter Susanah Wood the Sum of Fourteen Pounds Lawfull Money and these Legaces to be paid By My Aforesd. Son Henry the one ha. in one year after My Decd. and the Other half in one year After My aforesd. Wifes Deceasd

Item I Give and Bequeath Unto My Son Moses & Unto My two Daughters Joanna & Susannah fourteen Pounds lawfull Money to Each of them to be paid to them as abovesd. and Further my Will is that My Two Daughtors Joanna and Susannah Shall have liberty to live in My House as Long as they live Unmaried, & further my Will is that my Beloved Wife Mary Wood be the Exectrise & My Son Henry Wood be the Exector of this My last Will & Testament thus Hopeing that this My last Will & Testament will Be Kept & Preformed According to the True Intent and Meaning thereof & in Testimony hereof I the sd. Henry Wood have hereunto Sett My Hand & Seal this Tenth Day of May 1751 —

Signed Sealed Deliverd Pronounced               }

& Decelared by the sd. Henry Wood                }                                                              Henry Wood                         (seal)

to be his last Will & Testament in                    }

Presence of us

Ichabod Wood

Silas Wood

Joseph Tinkham

 

Probated on 4 May 1752, and proved by Ichabod Wood and Joseph Tinkham, two of the witnesses. Letters Testamentary were granted to Mary Wood, of Middleboro, Wido., and Henry Wood, of sd. Middleborough, the Executors.

 

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 13, p. 5-7, from FHL microfilm #0551540.

 

 

Will of Hervey Wood of Middleborough, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1825) *

Know all men by these presents that I Hervey Wood of Middleborough in the County of Plymouth & Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Yeoman, being in good health & perfect memory do make and ordain this my last Will & Testament in the manner following, Viz:

        Firstly, I give & bequeath to my sisters Susannah Wood of said Middleborough, Sophronia Clark the wife of Earl Clark of Fairhaven, and Priscilla Wood of said Middleborough all my Real Estate to be equally divided between them to have & to hold to my said three sisters and to their heirs & assigns forever. Also I give to my said three sisters all my wearing apparel to be divided equally between them.

        Secondly, I give & bequeath to my two Sisters Susannah Wood and Priscilla Wood all my household furniture to be equally divided.

        Thirdly, I give and bequeath to my sister Patience the wife of Abishai T. Clark money enough to get six large Silver Spoons and geese.

        Lastly, I hereby constitute & appoint my brother in law Earl Clark to be sole Executor to this my last Will & Testament.

                In testimony whereof I hereunto set my hand and seal this first day of December Eighteen hundred and twenty five.

                                                                                                                                                Hervey Wood                                    (seal)

Signed sealed and declared by the said Hervey Wood as

his last Will & Testament in presence of us

        William T. Wood

        Lucy T. Wood

        Citoyenne Wood

 

Probated on 2 Nov. 1831, and proved by William T. Wood and Lucy T. Wood, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration granted to Cyrus Earl Clark of Fairhaven, County of Bristol, Esquire.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 70, p. 478-479, from FHL microfilm #0555260.

 

 

Will of Ichabod Wood of Middleborough, Plymouth County, Massachusetts Bay (1786) *

Know all men by these presents that I, Ichabod Wood of the Town of Middleborough in the County of Plymouth in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, being weak of body yet of a Sound and disposing memory and understanding, blessed be God for the same; yet knowing the mortality of my body and that it is appointed for all men once to die, do make and ordain this my Last will & testament to be firm and inviolable forever. ~

Imprimis—I Give and bequeath to my well beloved wife Priscilla twenty pounds to be paid her by my Executor hereafter named, and also the use and improvement of one Room in my Dwelling House, which Room she shall Chuse and also Liberty of the Kitchin, Buttery & Cellar as she shall need, and Liberty of the well & Liberty to pass & Repass as she shall need, and further I Give and bequeath to her my said wife, one Cow to be kept for her Summer & winter & Liberty to keep one Swine, and nine bushells of Corn & four bushells of Rye yearly and a Sufficiency of all Sorts of Sauce Raised on my farm for her own use, and also five pounds of wool & ten pounds of flax yearly, and fire wood Sufficient for one fire at the door Cut fit for the fire, and one bushel of wheat yearly, and also I Give & bequeath to her my said wife, one third part of all my Indoor moveables, my Cash & Securities not included, and Liberty of a Horse to Ride to meeting and Other places as she shall need – the above produce, keeping the Cow & finding of fire wood to be performed by my three Sons Thomas, Andrew & Daniel in equal partnership between them, and the Securities that She my said wife hath in her own name are her own property and not to be Reckoned as any part of my Estate – the above mentioned twenty pounds and the above mentioned Cow and the above mentioned moveables to be her own property, the above mentioned produce to be paid her yearly during her natural Life, and the above mentioned House Room finding fire wood and use of a Horse to Continue so Long as she shall Remain my widow and Dwell in my Dwelling House ~

Item—I Give and bequeath to my Son Israel Wood besides what I have already Given him one half of my Right in the Saw mill on Nemasket River, and also all the Debts due to me from him, and also my Sword and also a Looking Glass that I bought of Oxenbridge Thacher, and also one Eleventh part of all my wearing apparell and the Eleventh part of all the wearing apparell of my former wife and Daughter both deceased. ~

Item—I Give and bequeath to my Grandson Samuel Wood Son of my Son Samuel deĉed (besides what I heretofore Gave to his father) one Eleventh part of all my wearing apparell and one Eleventh part of all the wearing apparell of my former wife & Daughter both deĉed, and also one Cow, if he Should Live to the age of twenty one years. ~

Item—I Give & bequeath to my Son Joshua Wood besides what I have already Given him, one Eleventh part of all my wearing apparell and one Eleventh part of all the wearing apparell of my former wife & Daughter both deĉed, and also ten pounds to be paid him by my Executor hereafter named

Item—I Give and bequeath to my Son Ichabod Wood junr one eleventh part of all my wearing apparell & one eleventh part of all the wearing apparell of my former wife & Daughter both deĉed, and also my Right in Double brook Cedar Swamp that I bought of Elijah Shaw, and the Other half of my Right in said Saw mill, and also twelve pounds to be paid by my Executor hereafter named, to him his Heirs & assigns forever. ~

Item—I Give and bequeath to my Son Jacob Wood one eleventh part of all my wearing apparell, and one eleventh part of all the wearing apparell of my former wife and Daughter both deĉed, and also a Lot of Land that I bought of Capt. Gideon Southworth Lying by the mouth of Namasket River, and also Sixty five pounds to be paid by my Executor hereafter named, to him his Heirs & assigns forever. ~

Item—I Give and bequeath to my Son Sylvanus Wood, one eleventh part of all my wearing apparell, and also one eleventh part of all the wearing apparell of my former wife & Daughter, both deĉed, and one Hundred pounds to be paid by my Executor hereafter named. ~

Item—I Give and bequeath to my Son Joseph Wood one eleventh part of all my wearing apparell, and also one eleventh part of all the wearing apparell of my former wife & Daughter both deĉed, and also Forty five pounds to be paid by my Executor hereafter named. ~

Item—I Give and bequeath to my Son Benjamin Wood one eleventh part of all my wearing apparell, and also one eleventh part of all the wearing apparell of my former wife & Daughter both deĉed, and also Fifty five pounds to be paid by my Executor hereafter named.~

Item—I Give and bequeath to my two aforesaid Sons Joseph & Benjamin in equal partnership between them, one yoke of Oxen and two Cows. ~

Item—I Give & bequeath to my three other Sons, vizt. Thomas Wood, Andrew Wood & Daniel Wood in equal partnership, between them to them their Heirs & assigns forever all my Other Estate of all Denominations, after the above & foregoing Legacies, and all my just debts & funeral Charges are first paid, but in Case my said Son Daniel Should not Live to the age of twenty one years, then my will is that his part shall be equal divided between my other nine Sons

Item—my will is and I hereby Constitute and appoint my aforesaid Son Israel Wood to be Executor to this my Last will and testament—thus hoping that this my Last will and testament will be kept & performed according to the true intent and meaning thereof, I Commit my Soul into the hands of God who Gave it and my body to the dust to a decent burial–in Witness whereof I the aforesaid Ichabod Wood have hereunto Sett my hand and Seal this twenty Seventh day of July one thousand Seven hundred Eighty & Six – And I Priscilla wife of said Ichabod Wood  hereby accept of what is above or before Given me as my full Right of Dower in said Estate witness my hand & Seal the Day & year above. ~

Signed, Sealed, pronounced & declared by the said Ichabod                                     Ichabod Wood                                  (seal)

Wood as his Last will & testament in the presence of us                                                             her

Joshua Waterman – Susanna Smith – Jacob Bennet ~                                                 Priscilla  +  Wood                               (seal)

                                                                                                                                                                mark

 

Presented for probate on 3 Sept. 1787 by Israel Wood, the Executor therein named, and proved by Joshua Waterman and Jacob Bennet, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Israel Wood, the before named Executor.

 

Jacob Bennet, Joshua Waterman, and John Tinkham junr., all of Middlebo., yeomen, were appointed to appraise the estate of Ichabod Wood, late of Middlebo., Gentm., on 3 Sept. 1787. The Inventory of the Estate of Ichabod Wood was dated 25 Sept. 1787, and totaled £1286.19.4, including his lands and buildings valued at £971. Israel Wood, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 1 Oct. 1787.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 30, pp. 200-202, 229, from FHL microfilm #0550716.

 

 

Will of Jabez Wood of Middleborough, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1760) *

                                                In the Name of GOD, Amen.

The twenty fifth day of December 1760, I Jabez Wood of Middleborough in the county of Plymouth in New-England husbandman, being in health of body, and of perfect mind and memory, and capable of disposition, thanks be given unto God, therefore calling unto mind the mortality of my body, and knowing that it is appointed for all men once to die, do make and ordain this my last will and testament, that is to say, –

Principally, and first of all I give and recomend my soul into the hands of God that gave it, and my body I recomend to the earth to be buried in christian burial, nothing doubting but at the general resurrection I shall receive the same again by the mighty power of God, and as Touching such worldly estate wherewith it hath pleased God to bless me in this life, I give, demise, and dispose of the same in the following manner and form. ~

Imprimis, I give and bequeath unto my beloved wife Hannah Wood, one feather-bed, with beding suitable for the same to be her own forever, with that, one quarter part of all my movable estate, to be her own forever.

Item, My will is, and I do hereby ratify and confirm unto my son Jabez Wood, and to my son Nathan Wood, and to my son Caleb Wood, and to their heirs forever, all those lots of land, that I have heretofore given unto my aforesaid three sons by deeds of gift. ~

Item, I give and bequeath unto my son Amos Wood and his heirs forever, the whole of my homestead farm whereon I now dwell, together with all the buildings and the fences on the same now standing. And also my will is that my son Amos Wood do maintain Hannah my aforesaid wife, during the whole time she shall remain my widow, both in sickness and in health. And also my will is and I do hereby order my son Amos Wood to pay my just debts and funeral charges out of the estate already bequeathed to him.

Item, I give and bequeath unto my four daughters namely Thankful Churchill, Alice Thurber, Patience Freeman, & Dinah Raymond, and their heirs, all my personal estate (except what I have given to my wife) to be delivered to them by my executors hereafter-named. ~

Item, I give and bequeath unto my eight above-named children, viz, Jabez, Nathan, Caleb, Amos, Thankful, Alice, Patience & Dinah, and to their heirs, all my cedarswamp lying in the purchase called Henry Wood,s purchase, to be equally divided between them. ~

Furthermore, my will is, and I do hereby apoint my beloved wife – Hannah, executrix, and my son Amos Wood executor of this my last will and testament, thus hoping that this my last will & testament, will be kept according to the true intent & meaning thereof, ratifying & confirming this and no other will to be my last will and testament.

   In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal the day and year above-written. ~

Signed, sealed, published, pronounced, &

declared by the said Jabez Wood as his last                                                                   Jabez Wood                                       (seal)

will & testament, in the presence of us

the subscribers.                     Ephraim Wood

                                                Joseph Tinkham

                                                Shubael Tinkham

 

Presented for probate on 2 Mar. 1772 by Amos Wood, one of the Executors therein named, Hannah Wood, the Executrix being aged and unable to attend, and proved by Ephraim Wood and Shubael Tinkham, two of the witnesses, Joseph Tinkham esqr. being since deceased. Letters of Administration were granted to Hannah Wood and Amos Wood, the Executors.

 

The Inventory of the estate of Jabez Wood, late of Middleborough, was appraised on 22 Feb. 1772 by Ephraim Wood, Nathanael Wood, and Jacob Bennett, and totaled £232.13.4, including his homestead land and buildings valued at £125, and his cedarswamp valued at £80. Amos Wood, the only acting executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 2 Mar. 1772.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 21, p. 92-93, from FHL microfilm #0550712.

 

 

Will of Judah Wood of Halifax, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1841) *

                In the name of God Amen, I Judah Wood of Halifax in the County of Plymouth, and Commonwealth of Massachusetts, considering the uncertainty of this mortal life and being of sound and disposing mind and memory, blessed be God for the same,

        Do make ordain and publish this as my last will and testament in the manner and form following, that is to say first of all I give my body to the dust to be buried in a decent christian burial at the discrition of my Executors, and my Spirit to God who gave it me, And as to the worldly estate with which God has blessed me with I dispose of the same in the following manner, Viz

First. I give and bequeath unto my son Judah Wood ten dollars to be paid out of my Real Estate.

Second. I give and bequeath unto my son John Wood ten Dollars to be paid out of my real Estate.

Third. I give and bequeath unto my son Cyrus Wood ten dollars to be paid out of my Real Estate.

Fourth. I give and bequeath unto my son Leavitt Wood ten dollars to be paid out of my Real Estate

fifth I give and bequeath unto my son Samuel Woods 2d all my Real Estate, including my homestead farm and buildings standing on the same also a peice of Cedar swamp lying in the town of Middleborough and lastly my will is, that all my just Debts and funeral Charges be paid out of my Real Estate, and I do hereby appoint Zadock Thompson Sole Executor of this my last will and testament hereby revoking all former wills by me made, In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this thirtieth day of September in the year of our Lord one thousand Eight hundred and forty one, signed, sealed published and declared by the above named Judah Wood to be his last Will and testament in the presence of us as witnesses in the presence of the testator.

Witnesses,

        Martin Wood                                                                                                                Judah Wood                                      (seal)

        Stephen Drew

        Zadock Thompson

 

Presented for probate on the second Monday of Aug. 1848 by Zadock Thompson, the Executor therein named, and proved by Martin Wood, Stephen Drew and Zadock Thompson, the witnesses whose names are subscribed thereto. Letters Testamentary were granted to Zadock Thompson, the Executor therein named.

 

Zadock Thompson, of Halifax, was appointed as Executor of the last Will and Testament of Judah Wood, late of Halifax, on 7 Nov. 1848, with Chipman Porter, of Halifax, and Bradford Harlow, of Middleborough, as sureties.

Bradford Harlow, of Middleborough, and Chipman Porter and George Drew, of Halifax, were appointed to appraise the estate of Judah Wood, late of Halifax, on 14 Aug. 1848.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Judah Wood, late of Halifax, was dated 31 Oct. 1848, his real estate valued at $1500, and his personal estate totaled $135.61. Zadock Thompson, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on the first Tuesday of Nov. 1848, and he applied for a license to sell the personal estate of the deceased, which was granted on 7 Nov. 1848.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 90, pp. 332-333, 413-414, from FHL microfilm #0555639, and Vol. 2H, p. 173.

 

 

Will of Sally Wood of Middleborough, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1811) *

In the Name of God amen – I Sally Wood of Middleborough in the County of Plymouth, being of weak bodily Health, & yet of sound Mind, Memory & understanding, Thanks be to that merciful Being through whose Goodness my Life & Health have been preserved & supported – But considering the Uncertainty of this transitory Life, I do make publish & declare this my Last Will & Testament in manner & form following to wit –

  First of all I recommend my Soul to the Mercy of that God who gave it, & my Body to the Dust from whence it came in the humble hope & belief that it will be raised incorruptible at the Last day—

   With regard to my worldly Interest I give & bequeath the same as follows, to wit,

   Item. I give and bequeath & confirm to my Son Wilkes Wood all my right & Interest in & to that piece of Land called Howland Lot of which he is now in possession in consequence of his buying & delivering, three large Silver Spoons, one to my Son Gorham Wood, one other to my Son Horatio G Wood & one other to my Daughter Theodata Wood —

   Item – I give & bequeath to my Son Gorham Wood a small strip of Land lying on Namasket River, near the River Bridge – & also my Horse. —

   Item. I give & bequeath to my Daughter Theodata Wood all the new part of my Dwelling-house, which I built adjoining my old Dwelling house, to her & her Heirs & assigns forever–

   Item. I give & bequeath to my Son Horatio G. Wood my best Bed & Furniture compleat–

   Item I give & bequeath to my Daughter Sally Haskell one Cow—

   Item I give & bequeath to my Daughter Theodata Wood my black Taffety Gown, also my black Satin Cloak – & my Gold Necklace, also one Feather Bed.–

   Item. I give & bequeath to my Son Horatio G. Wood my Daughter Sally Haskell and my Daughter Theodata Wood, about one Acre of Land be the same More or less lying near the River Bridge, which fell to me in the Division of my Mother’s thirds –

   Item. I give & bequeath to Hafrey Wood Son of my Son Gorham Wood one blue Broadcloth Coat.–

   Item. I give & bequeath to my Grand daughter Sally Wood my Green Taffety Gown –

  Item. I give & bequeath to my Son Hartwell Bennet Haskell my large Silver Spoon —

  Item. I give & bequeath all the rest, residue of my Property Real & personal to my Daughter Theodata Wood & my Son Horatio G. Wood to be equally divided between them they paying all my legal debts, & funeral Charges – reserving however one pair of Stone Sleeve Buttons, which I give & bequeath to my Grandon Cornelius Bennet–

The residue of my wearing apparel to be equally divided between my two Daughters

   And I hereby nominate & appoint, my Son Wilkes Wood Executor of this my last Will & Testament, hereby revoking all former Wills by me heretofore made –

In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand & Seal at Middleborough this ninth day of September in the Year of our Lord one Thousand eight hundred & eleven —

Signed sealed published & declared by the above named

Sally Wood as & for her last will & Testament in the                                                 Sally Wood                                         (seal)

presence of us, who have hereunto subscribed our

names as Witnesses thereto in the presence of the sd Testator

and in presence of each other –

                Cyrus Keith

                Thomas Pratt

                Harvey C. Thomas –

Presented for probate on 5 Nov. 1811 by Wilkes Wood Esqr. the Executor therein named, and proved by Cyrus Keith and Thomas Pratt, two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters of Administration were granted to Wilkes Wood Esqr. the before named Executor.

No inventory of her estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 44, p. 16-17, from FHL microfilm #0550903

 

 

Will of Samuel Wood of Middleborough, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1750) *

In the Name of God Amen I Samuel Wood of Middleborough in the County of Plimouth in New England Being Sick and weak of body but of a Sound and Disposing mind memory & understanding blessed be god there for Calling to mind the mortality of my body & Knowing that it is appointed for all men once to Dy Do make & ordain this to be my Last will & Testament to Stand firm & Remain Inviolable for Ever prinsapely & first of all I give & Recomend my Soul into the hands of god that gave it and my body I recomend unto the Dust to be Buried in a Decent Christen Burial at the Descrition of my Executrix Nothing doughting but at the general resurection I Shall receive the same again and as Touching Such worldly Estate as it hath plesed god to Bless me in this Life I Do Dispose of the Same in the folowing maner and forme ~~

Iprimas I give & bequeath unto my True and well Beloved wife Joanna Wood my best bed bedstead & furniture beloning to it and my Chist of drawes & Looking glass her choice[?] of my three Cowes I Likewise give her my three Biggest Swine to be [can’t read] the Next Fall for her own use & my childrens.— & after my Just Debts & funaral Charges are paid I give the remainder of all my personal Estate with the Debts Due to me unto my wife Except what I Do in this my Last will particularly other wise Despose of I Likewise give my Said wife the whole Improvement of all my Lands & medows untill my youngest Child arives unto the age of Eleven years then after that in Case She remains my widow I give her the use of one roome in My Dwelling house with half the Roome in the Celler with one third of the profits of all my Improved Lands & meadow with the priviledge of Cuting So much fier wood on my Wood Lands as Shall be necesary for to maintine one Constant fire for hir use So Long as Shee remains my widdow—

Item I Give & bequeath unto my Son Abner wood & his hairs & asings for Ever all my Lands & medow in Case my Child yet unborn Shall be a Daughter but in Case that Child Should be a Son my will and meaning is my Lands and medow shall be Equely Divied Between them two Sons and & Each of my two Sons Shall pay the Legeces that I in this my Last will gives to my Daughters—

Iive and bequeath unto my Daughter Susanah Wood the Sum of Six pounds and Thirteen Shillings & four pence to be paid unto her by my Son Abner Wood when he Shall arrive unto the age of Twenty four years in Case my Child Not yet born Shall be a Daughter but in Case that Child Should be a Son my Said Son Abner Shall pay unto her but one half of Said Sum & that other Son Shall pay unto her the other half When he Shall arive unto the age of Twenty four years—

Item I give & Bequeath unto my Daughter Azubah Wood the Sum of Six pound Thirteen Shillings and four pence to be paid unto her by my Son or Sons at the Same time & in Likemanor as I have ordered the payment unto my Dayghter Susanah Wood aforesaid—

Item I give & Bequeath unto my Daughter Rebekah Wood the Sum of Six pounds Thirteen Shillings & four pence to be paid unto her by my aforesd. Son or sons in Like maner and at the Sametime that I have ordered the payments unto my Daughters aforesaid &c~~

I give & bequeath unto my Daughter Bathsheba wood the Sum of Six pounds thirteen Shillins & four pence to be paid unto her by my aforesd Son of Sons at the Sametime and in the Sam manor that I have ordered payment unto my aforesd Daughters and fourthermore my will is that in Case my Child that is not yet born Should be a Daughter I give and bequeat unto her the Sum of Six pounds Thirteen Shillings & four pence to be paid unto her by my aforesd. Son Abner Wood when he Shall arive at the age of twenty four years and fourthermore my will is that my apprentice Elkanah Totman Shall remain & Live with my wife the Space of two months after my Decease to Take Cair of and to harvest the hay and Corn that is a growing on my farm and after that he Shall by & With the Consent of my wife Chuse for him Self agood master that Shall fullfill unto him the Indentures where by he is Bound unto me & my wife Shall assign over Said Indentures unto Said master & my will is and I Do hereby give unto him the said Elkanah Totman for his for his faithfull Sarves the Said Two months my Birch Stock Jointer & my walnut Lock Jack plain & my Smoothing plain & my biggest hand Saw & biggest fine or Back Saw & my hamer that is without Cheeks—

and further my Will also is that my Well Beloved Wife abovesd. be the Executrix of hoping this my Last will and testament will be Kept & performed according to ye. True Intent and meaining thereof and in Testimoney hereof I the aforesd. Samuel Wood have hereunto Sett my hand and Seal this 9th Day of July one Thousand Seven hundered and fifty—1750~~

Signed Sealed publeshed pronounced & Declared by

the Said Samull. Wood to be his Last Will & Testament

in presents of us the Subscribers—

John Tomson                                                                                                                       Samuel Wood                                    (seal)

Joseph Tinkham

Seth Tinkham

 

Presented for probate on 6 Aug. 1750 by the Executer therein named, and proved by John Tomson and Seth Tinkham, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to the Widow Joanna Wood of Middleborough, the Executrix, on 6 Aug. 1750.

 

Capt. Jabez Vaughn, Seth Tinkham and William Cushman, all of Middleborough, were appointed to appraise the estate of Samuel Wood, late of Middleborough, on 6 Aug. 1750. The inventory, dated 21 Aug. 1750, totaled £176.7.6, including his real estate, valued at £113. Joanna Wood, the Executrix, gave her oath to the inventory on 10 July 1751.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 12, pp. 93-95, 253, from FHL microfilm #0551539.

 

 

Will of Samuel Wood of Brookfield, Worcester County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1826) *

                In the name of God amen ~~

        I Samuel Wood of Brookfield in the County of Worcester & Commonwealth of Massachusetts, being of sound disposing mind and memory, do make this my last will & Testament to settle and dispose of my Estate after my decease ~

Imprimis – To Theodosa Sanford the wife of Josiah Sanford of Brookfield – to Samuel Wood & Darius Wood of the State of Vermont – to Ruth Thompson the wife of David Thompson of Brookfield – to Sukey Sanford the wife of Duty Sanford of the State of Vermont – John Wood of Brookfield – and Mary Brown the wife of John Brown of the State of New Hampshire – I hereby give nothing–as I have heretofore given My said daughters Theodora Sanford – Ruth Thompson – Sukey Sanford & Mary Brown And my said sons Samuel Wood, Darius Wood and John Wood as much of my property as is consistent with a suitable and decent support for myself & wife.

Item – To Thomas Wood my son, who has undertaken to support Myself & also my present wife Abigail Wood during our Joint lives – and the life of the survivor in sickness & in health – providing at all times such provisions, cloathing, nursing & medicine as our situation may require ~~ I give to him the said Thomas Wood all my goods, effects, credits & Estate of whatever name or nature – to him and to hold to him & his heirs forever –

        Lastly – I hereby appoint my said Son Thomas Wood sole executor of this my last will & Testament – Hereby ratifying this & no other as my last Will & Testament—

                Witness my hand & seal this seventeenth day of January in the year of our LORD Eighteen hundred and twenty six.

        Signed, Sealed, published, pro-

nounced & declared by the said                                                                                        Samuel Wood

Samuel Wood the testator to be his

last Will & Testament in presence

of us who signed as Witnesses hereto

in his presence & at his request.

Elisha Hammond

Francis Stone

 

At Brookfield on the fourth Tuesday of Oct. 1829, the will of Samuel Wood presented for probate not allowed the same being not attested and subscribed by three or more credible witnesses according to the Statute in such case provided. Thomas Wood was granted administration of the estate of Samuel Wood, late of Brookfield, on 27 Oct. 1829, with John Wood and Jesse Bliss as sureties.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Worcester County Probate Case #66000.

 

 

Will of Adam Wright of Plympton, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1723) *

Know all men by these Presents yt I Adam Wright of Plympton in ye county of Plymth in new: England being grown to old age althoh by ye Blessing of God I am in perfect health & Sound mind & memory & being minded to Settle my Estate do make & ordain this my last Will & Testament as followeth that is to Say: Imprimis I give & Bequeath unto my Son John Wright (besides what I gave Him in ye Land whereon He now dwelleth) ye Sum of five Shillings money as also all my Rights of Land wherever they may be found which are not other wise disposed of in this Will or other wise by Deeds.

Item: I have already given by deeds unto my two Sons Isaac Wright & Samuell Wright ye Lands whereon they & I now dwell which I Esteem to be their full Part & Portion of my Estate. Item: I have already given unto my Son Moses Wright by deed all my Lands Lying in Winnatixitt neck which I Esteem to be his full Part & Portion of my Estate. Item: I give & Bequeath unto my two Grand: Children: viz: Joshua Pratt & Sarah His Sister Children of my Daughter Esther Pratt decd ye Sum of five Shillings a Peice money which with what I gave unto their Sd mother in Her Lifetime I Esteem to be their full Part & Portion of my Estate. Item, I have given by Deed bearing Date with these Presents unto my Daughter Sarah Fuller ye Wife of Seth Fuller all my Lands lying upon ye neck on ye northerly Side of Colchester Brook which together with what moveable Estate She hath already Had I Esteem to be Her full Part & Portion of my Estate.

Item. I give & bequeath unto my two Sons viz: James Wright & Nathan Wright ye Sum of one Hundred Pounds in money a Peice to be Paid unto them by my Executrix out of my Estate when they Shall arrive to ye age of twenty one years old..

Item: I give & bequeath unto my daughter Mary Gifferd ye Wife ye wife of Jeremiah Giffered ye Sum of twenty Pounds to be Paid by my Executrix out of my moveable Estate at my decease.

Item: I give & bequeath unto my Daughter Rachel Barlow ye wife of Ebenezer Barlow ye Sum of twenty Pounds to be Paid by my Executrix out of my moveable Estate at my decease

Item: I give & Bequeath unto my True & Loving Wife Mehitable Wright (whom I Likewise Constitute make & ordain to be Sole Executrix of this my Last Will & Testament) all ye Remaining Part of my Estate (my Just Debts & Funeral Charges being first Paid) to be for Her Support & Comfort So long as She Remains my widdow & to be by Her Disposed of to any of my Children which She Seeth Cause but If it Should So Happen after my decease that She Shall marry then my Will is that She Shall have ye Sum of Twenty Pounds out of my Estate & that She Dispose of ye Rest to my Children as abovesd. In Witness whereof I have hereunto Set my Hand & Seal this ninth day of aprill one thousand Seven Hundred twenty three 1723

Signed Sealed & declared to be

His last Will & Testament                                                                                                Adam Wright     (seal)

In Presence of us                                                                                                                 His  q   mark

Joseph Thomas

Nathaniel Fuller

Isaac Cushman Junr.

 

Proved on 2 Nov. 1724 by Joseph Thomas, Nathaniel Fuller, and Isaac Cushman Junr, and Mehitable Wright confirmed as executrix.

 

The Inventory of the Personal Estate of Adam Wright, late of Plympton, was appraised by Isaac Cushman Junr., Joseph Thomas, and James Soul on 10 Oct. 1724, not totaled, and no real estate listed, but his Books, apparrell & Bonds were valued at £332.9.6. Mehitable Wright, the Executrix to the estate of her husband Adam Wright, gave her oath to the inventory on 2 Nov. 1724.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 5, p. 26-29, from FHL microfilm #0550511.

 

 

Will of Barzillia E. Wright of Plympton, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1850) *

In the name of God Amen, I Barzillia E. Wright of Plympton in the County of Plymouth and Commonwealth of Massachusetts Yeoman, altho being blessed at the present time with a sound disposing mind and memory but sick and feeble in body calling unto mind the mortality of my body, and knowing that it is appointed for men once to die do make and ordain this my last Will and Testament and wish it may be received by all men as such, first of all I give and recommend my soul into the hands of God that gave it – and as touching such worldly estate whereof it has pleased God to bless me in this life, I give and bequeath and dispose of the same in the following manner and form. –

Imprimis I order that my Executor to pay all my just debts and legacies to be paid as hereafter expressed

Item       I give and bequeath to my beloved wife Priscilla Wright the use and improvement of all my Real and Personal Estate, excepting what it takes to pay my just debts, and the legacies hereafter named and my funeral expenses. –

Item       I give and bequeath unto my daughter Aliza Ann Chamberlain One hundred and fifty Dollars. ~

Item       I give and bequeath unto my daughter Sarah N Wright Three hundred Dollars at the time of her marriage and if not married at the time of my wife decease to have the three hundred Dollars and one hundred Dollars more making four hundred Dollars

Item       I give and bequeath unto my son Barzillia E Wright at the decease of my wife all my Real and Personal Estate that remains after what is above expressed except my household furniture which I give unto my wife for her own disposal as she sees fit – and my son Barzillia and daughter Sarah N Wright to have a home with their mother as long as they should wish, that as long as they remain single

Lastly I do constitute and appoint Richard Cooper my sole executor of this my last Will and Testament and ratifying this and no other as my last Will and Testament. –

                In witness whereof I have set my and seal

Item if my son Barzillia E Wright should die before my widow Priscilla Wright the estate I will unto him I give unto my widow Priscilla Wright and to her heirs and assigns forever. –

        this Tenth day of June in the year of our Lord One thousand eight hundred and fifty

Signed sealed published and pronounced, declared

by the said Barzillia E Wright as his last Will

and Testament in the presence of us the subscribers

                Jonathan Parker

                Harvey Fuller                                                                                                        Barzillia Wright                                (seal)

                Lewis Weston

 

To the Judge of Probate for the County of Plymouth

     Sir      Having consented heretofore to officiate as executor of the last will and testament of Barzillia E Wright of Plympton in said County deceased, am under the necessity of declining to officiate on account of ill health, and would thereby waive all right and recommend that Zadock Thompson be appointed in my stead

     Plympton August 10th. 1850                                                                                        Richard Cooper

 

Presented for probate on the first Tuesday of Oct. 1850 by Priscilla Wright herein named, and proved by Jonathan Parker and Lewis Weston, two of the witnesses whose names are subscribed thereto.

 

Zadock Thompson, of Halifax, was granted administration with the will annexed of the estate of Barzillai E. Wright, late of Plympton, Richard Cooper who was named as Executor thereof having declined the trust, on 1 Oct. 1850, with Jabes P. Thompson, of Halifax, and Benjamin Ransom, of Carver, as sureties.

Samuel Thompson, of Middleborough, Solomon Fuller and Ephraim C. Ripley, both of Plympton, were appointed to appraise the estate of Barzillai E. Wright, late of Plympton, on 1 Oct. 1850.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Barzilla E Wright, late of Plympton, was dated 2 Nov. 1850, his real estate valued at $2267, including his homestead farm and buildings valued at $1600, and his personal estate totaled $524.25. Zadock Thompson, the Administrator with the Will annexed on the Estate of Barzillai E Wright, late of Plympton, gave his oath to the inventory on the first Monday of Dec. 1850.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 92, pp. 413-414, 487-488, and Vol. 1F, p. 12.

 

 

Will of Billya Wright of Plympton, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1836) *

                Be it Known, that I Billya Wright of Plympton in the County of Plymouth and Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Yeoman, being weak of body, but of perfect mind and memory – thanks be given to God therefor – calling to mind the mortality of my body – and knowing that it is appointed for all Men once to die, do make and ordain this my Last Will and Testament, and desire it may be received by all Men as such: And first of all I give and bequeath my soul into the hands of God who gave it – and my body I recommend to the earth, to be buried in a decent Christian burial, at the discretion of my Executor hereafter named, nothing doubting but at the general resurrection I shall receive the same again by the mighty power of God. And as toutching such worldly estate wherewith it has pleased God to bless me with, I give devise and dispose of the same in the following manner and form.

                Imprimis. I give and bequeath unto my beloved wife Patience Wright the use and improvement of all my real and personal estate during her natural life.

                Item - I give and bequeath unto my son George E. Wright one undivided half of my real estate, stock and farming tools, after the decease of my wife.

                Item - I give and bequeath unto my son Otis Wright on undivided half of my real estate, stock and farming utensils, after the decease of my wife.

                Item - I give and bequeath unto my daughter Mira Sturtevant, all my household furniture, after the decease of my wife.

                Item - I give and bequeath unto my son Zebedee Wright all my wearing apparel.

                Item - And my Will is, and do absolutely order my son George E. Wright to pay three hundred and twenty five dollars of my just debts, and my funeral expenses.

                Item - And my Will is, and do absolutely order my son Otis Wright to pay all of my just debts, excepting what I have ordered my son George E. Wright to pay.  Lastly, I do constitute make and ordain my sons George E. Wright and Otis Wright my sole Executors to this my last Will and testament.

                In Witness Whereof, I, Billya Wright, have hereunto set my hand and seal, this tenth day of August, in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and thirty six.

                Signed, sealed pronounced and declared by the said Billya Wright to be his last Will and Testament, in the presence of us the subscribers.

                Jonathan Parker                                                                                                   Billya Wright                     (seal)

                Oliver Churchill

                Oliver Churchill Jr

 

Presented for probate on the first Tuesday of November 1836 by George E. Wright and Otis Wright, the Executors therein named, and proved by Jonathan Parker and Oliver Churchill, two of the witnesses. Letters Testamentary were granted to George E. Wright and Otis Wright, the Executors.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Bylla [sic] Wright, late of Plympton, yeoman, was appraised on 14 Dec. 1836 by Jonathan Parker, Oliver Churchill and Barzillai Wright, and totaled $2731.31, his real estate valued at $2406, including his homestead farm and buildings valued at $1400. George E. Wright and Otis Wright, the Executors, gave their oath to the inventory of Billya Wright, late of Plympton, on 20 Feb. 1837.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 78, p. 448-450, from FHL microfilm #0555264, and Vol. 79, p. 37-38.

 

 

Will of Ebenezer Wright of Plympton, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1847) *

        Be it remembered that I, Ebenezer Wright of Plympton in the County of Plymouth and Commonwealth of Massachusetts, considering the uncertainty of this mortal life, and being of sound and perfect mind and memory, blessed be Almighty God for the same, do make and publish this my last will and Testament, in manner and form following

(that is to say)  I give and bequeath jointly unto my beloved wife Sarah Wright, and to my nephew Rufus Wright of Plympton aforesaid, and to their heirs and assigns forever, all my Real Estate of which I shall be possessed at my decease, after my just debts and funeral charges are paid out of it. Also I give and bequeath to my said wife and nephew jointly, and to their heirs and assigns all my personal Estate of which I shall be possessed at the time of my decease; but reserving to my said wife the personal Estate which she brought to me at the time of her marriage with me

And I hereby appoint my said nephew, Rufas Wright sole Executor of this my last Will and testament, hereby revoking all former Wills by me made

        In testamony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal the fourth day of February in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and forty seven.

                                                                                                                                                Ebenezer Wright                              (seal)

  signed, sealed published and declared by the above named Ebenezer Wright to be his last Will and Testament in the presence of us who have hereunto subscribed our names as witnesses, in the presence of the testator.

        Josiah S. Hammond

        William Perkins Jr

        Sarah H. Wright

 

Presented for probate on the third Monday of May 1848 by Rufas Wright, the Executor therein named, and proved by Josiah S. Hammond and William Perkins Jun., two of the witnesses thereto subscribed. Letters Testamentary were granted to Rufas Wright, the Executor.

 

Rufus Wright, of Plympton, was granted Letters Testamentary on the Estate of Ebenezer Wright, late of Plympton, Yeoman, on 15 May 1848, with Jonathan Parker and Zacheus Sherman, both of Plympton, as sureties.

No inventory of his estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 90, p. 215-216, from FHL microfilm #0555639, and Vol. 2H, p. 158.

 

 

Will of Isaac Wright of Plympton, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1760) *

                                In the Name of God Amen.

The second day of July A.D. 1760. I Isaac Wright of Plimton in the county of Plimouth in the province of the Massachusets Bay in New-England Yeoman, being not in a good state of health but of perfect mind & memory which I thank God for, Therefore calling to mind the mortality of my body, & knowing it is appointed for all men once to die do make & ordain this my last will & testament, that is to say: principally & first of all I give & recomend my soul into the hands of God that gave it, & my body I recommend to the earth to be buried in decent christian burial at the discretion of my Executor, nothing doubting but at the general resurrection I shall receive the same again by the mighty power of God. & as touching such worldly estate wherewith it hath pleased God, to bless me in this life I give & demise & dispose of as followeth.

Imprs. I give & bequeath to my welbeloved son Joseph Wright & to his heirs & assigns forever, the westerly end of the dwelling house wherein he now liveth in consideration for his labour with me after he was of age. Also the one half of all my other real estate (excepting the easterly end of my dwelling house,) wherein I dwell.

Item. I give & bequeath to my welbeloved son Isaac Wright & to his heirs & assigns forever the easterly end of my dwelling house wherein I now dwell. Also the one half of all my other real estate to be equally divided between my son Joseph & him. Excepting the westerly end of my dwelling house which is above given to Joseph.

Item. I give to my welbeloved daughter Mary Thomson & her heirs, the sum of six pounds thirteen shillings & four pence to be paid by my Excr. out of my personal estate. — Besides what I have already given her.

Item. I give to my welbelovd. daughter Rachel Wright, & her heirs the sum of thirteen pounds six shillgs. & eight pence to be pd. by my Exr. out of my moveable Estate.

Item. Also my will is that if there should be any more of my personal estate left, after my just debts, funeral charges & legacies are paid, that it be equally divided amongst all my Children.

Lastly. I constitute, make & appoint my welbeloved son Joseph Wright to be my sole Executor of this my last will & testament, & I do hereby utterly disallow, revoke & disanul all former wills, testaments, bequeaths & Excrs. by me before named, ratifying & confirming this & no other to be my last will & testament. In Witness, I have hereunto set my hand & seal the day & Year above written.

Signed, sealed, published, pronounced & declard.                                                        Isaac Wright                      (seal)

by the sd. Isaac Wright to be his last will & testamt.

in Presence of us.                                 Benja. Weston

                                                                Hannah Weston

                                                                Job Weston

 

Presented for probate on 7 Apr. 1766 by Joseph Wright, the executor therein named, and proved by Benjamin Weston and Job Weston, two of the witnesses.

 

The Inventory of the estate of Isaac Wright, late of Plimton, was appraised by Gideon Bradford, Benjamin Weston, and Jabez Newland on 4 Apr. 1766, and totaled £544.12.1, including his homestead farm with the buildings & fence thereon valued at £480. Joseph Wright, the Executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 7 Apr. 1766.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 19, p. 345-346, from FHL microfilm #0550711.

 

 

Will of Isaac Wright of Plympton, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1796) *

In the name of God Amen – I Isaac Wright of Plymton in the county of Plymouth & Commonwealth of Massachusetts, yeoman, being weak in body, but of perfect mind & memory, thanks be given to God therefor, calling unto mind, the mortality of my body & knowing that it is appointed for all men once to die, do make & ordain this my last will & testament, and desire it to be recieved by all as such, that is to say, principally & first of all, I give & recommend my soul into the hands of God that gave it, & my body, I recommend to the earth, to be buried in decent christian burial, at the discretion of my Executors hereafter named, nothing doubting but at the general resurrection I shall recieve the same again by the mighty power of God, and touching such worldly estate wherewith it hath pleased God to bless me in this life, I give, demise & dispose of the same, in the following manner & form

        Imprimis—I Give & bequeath to Faith, my well beloved wife, the improvement of two thirds of my dwelling house, at the southerly part of sd house together with the improvement of one third part of all my real estate, so long as she shall remain my widow. I also give to my beloved wife, one whole of my houshold furniture & one Store Cow, my beef Cow, all my sheep, & all my Swine, to be at her own use and disposal forever

        Item—I Give & bequeath to my Son Billey, a Piece of Spruce Swamp lying in Swan hole Swamp, so called, in Carver, being all I own in said Swamp, to him, his heirs & assigns forever

        Item—I Give & bequeath to my five sons vizt Isaac, Chandler, Nathaniel, Caleb & Winslow, & to their heirs & assigns forever, all the rest & residue of all my real estate, in equal division amongst them except my Pine Lot which lies adjoining the Lot I sold Capt. Nathaniel Carver of Plymouth, and I do positively order my five last named Sons to pay to my Son Billa twenty Dollars at my decease, & also to pay to my Daughter Molley Forty Dollars at my decease, & also that they pay my Daughter Hannah Fifteen Dollars, whenever she shall please to call for the same, the above payments to be made equally by my said five last named sons

        Item—I Give to my two Daughters –vizt Molley & Hannah, and to their heirs & assigns forever, the above mentioned Pine Lot, in equal division between them

        Item—I Give to my Son Winslow my best coat & one half of my two year old Colt, & my desire is & I do solemnly charge my three Sons viz Billey, Isaac & Chandler, to discharge & cancel all bonds notes & book accounts wherein my estate is or may be holden as surety for any or either of them, and also that they make no demands on my sd Estate for any service or thing heretofore done & performed, by any or either of them, except a reasonable allowance to be made to my Son Isaac for what he has done in repairing or finishing my Dwelling House

        Item—all the Residue of my wearing apparell, not before disposed of I Give in equal Division among all my Sons, and my will is and I hereby order, that all my just debts & Funeral expences be paid out of my Stock & Farming tools & utensills, not otherwise disposed of, in this my last will & testament, returning the overplus, if any there be, to my five youngest Sons in equal division, and in case of an insufficiency I do positively order my five youngest sons to make up all such deficiencies, equally amongst them

        Lastly—I do constitute, make & ordain my two Sons vizt Billy Wright & Isaac Wright my Sole Executors of this my last will & testament, & do hereby utterly disallow, revoke & disannul all & every other former will & testament, legacies, bequeaths & Executors by me in any way before named, willed or bequeathed, ratifying & confirming this & no other, to be my last will & testament – In Witness whereof I have hereunto Set my hand & Seal, this twentieth day of September in the year of our Lord, one thousand, seven hundred & ninety Six. 1796

 

Signed, Sealed, Published, Pronoun-

ced & Declared by the said Isaac Wright                                                                        Isaac Wright      —           seal

as his last will & testament, in the pre-

sence of us the subscribers

                Elijah Bisbe junr

                Asa Sherman

                Joseph Cobb

 

Presented for probate on 12 Jan. 1797 by Billey Wright & Isaac Wright, the Executors therein named, and proved by Elijah Bisbe junr Esqr. & Asa Sherman, two of the witnesses.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 36, p. 31-33, from FHL microfilm #0550719.

 

 

Will of John Wright of Plympton, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1772) *

In the Name of God Amen I John Wright of Plymton in the County of Plymouth in New-England Yeoman being Weak in Body but of Perfect mind & Memory thanks be Given unto God therefore calling unto Mind the Mortality of my Body & knowing that it is Appointed for all Men Once to Die Do make and Ordain this my Last Will & Testament that is to Say Principally & first of all I Give & Recommend my Soul into the hands of God that Gave it & my Body I Recommend to the Earth to be Buried in Decent Christian Burial at the Discretion of My Executors hereafter named nothing Doubting but at the General Resurrection I Shall Receive the same Again by the Mighty Power of God and as Touching such Worldly Estate wherewith it hath Pleased God to Bless me in this Life I Give Demise & Dispose of the same In the following Manner & Form

Imprimis my Will is that all My Just Debts & funeral Charges be paid by My Executors herein hereafter named out of My Personal Estate in Convenient Season After my Decease ~

Item – Haveing Already Given to my Beloved son John Wright & to his Heirs & Assigns forever his Part & Portion of My Estate I do hereby Give unto him my son John Wright and to his Heirs & Assigns forever Additional thereto my Walking Cane & Remise to him all & Every Sum & Sums in which He is Indebted to me by Bill Bond Note or Book ~

Item I hereby Give & Bequeath unto my Well beloved son Adam Wright and to his Heirs & Assigns forever One Acre of Land of my Homested where his Dwelling House now Stands as he shall see Cause to take it. ~

Item  I hereby Give & Bequeath unto my Two Beloved Daughters Repentance Wright & Sarah Wright & to their Respective Heirs & Assigns forever In Equal Division & Proportion my Dwelling House In which I now Dwell with Two Acres of Land of My Homestead where my Dwelling House now Stands as they Shall Se cause to take it Also I Give to my Two Daughters Repentance Wright & Sarah Wright & to their Respective Heirs and Assigns forever in Equal Division & Proportion One Third Part of My Cedar Swamp in South Meadow Cedar Swamp ~

Item  I hereby Give & Bequeath unto my Well Beloved son Benjamin Wright and to his Heirs & Assigns forever One third Part of my Homested whereon I now Dwell with One Third Part of My Lott of Land Lying to the Westward of Nathan Perkins between the High Way that Leads into Donhams Neck & Colchester Brook ~

Item – The Rest & Residue of My Homested & my Lott of Land Lying to the Westward of Nathan Perkins between the High Way & Colchester Brook I hereby Give & Bequeath to my Two Daughters Repentance Wright & Sarah Wright & to their Respective Heirs & Assigns forever.

Item  I hereby Give & Bequeath to my Two Grandsons John Hunt & Judah Hunt the full Value of Twenty Shillings Lawfull Money to be paid to them in Farm Stock in Twelve Months Time after my Decease ~

Item  I hereby Give & Bequeath to my Grand Daughter Mary Hunt the full Value of Eight Pounds Lawfull Money to be paid by my Executors in Household Goods Particularly One Good Feather Bed to be paid in Twelve Months Time After my Decease ~

Item The Right & Priviledges that I Bought with the Saw Mill of Jacob Cook I hereby Give & Bequeath One Third Part thereof to my Son Benjamin Wright And One Third Part thereof to my Son Adam Wright & One third Part thereof to my Two Daughters Repentance Wright & Sarah Wright & to their Respective Heirs & Assigns forever after my Just Debts & funeral Charges & my Bequeath to my Three grand Children John Hunt Judah Hunt & Mary Hunt are paid out of My Personal Estate the Rest & Residue thereof I hereby Give & Bequeath to my Two Daughters Repentance Wright & Sarah Wright & to my Grand Daughter Mary Hunt & to their Respective Heirs & Assigns forever.

Item  I Give & Bequeath all the Outlands both Upland Swamps & Meadows Lying in Said Plymton or any Where Else wheresoever that is not before Disposed of by me in this My Last Will & Testament Except my Lot of Land Lying at Great South Pond unto my Two Sons Benjamin Wright & Adam Wright in Equal Division & Proportion & to their Heirs & Assigns forever further Ordering that my son Benjamin Wright Shall pay to James Bishop the Remainder of a Note of Twenty Odd Pounds as a Condition on which he shall hold and Have his Legacy herein Given that is to Say a Note which I Passed to Said Bishop. And also if any of my Children or Legatees Shall Try by any Means or Course of Law to Invalidate or make Void any Part or all of this My Last Will & Testament Such Child or Legatee Shall forfeit his or her Bequest herein made & be Secluded from any Claim to or Benefit by this my Last Will & Testament & further that none of My Children Shall on any Pretence bring in any Debt against my Estate on forfeiture of their Interest in this my Last Will & Testament as afores’d ~

Lastly I hereby Constitute make & Ordain my Esteemed friends Mr. Benjamin Weston & Joseph Wright both of said Plymton the Sole Executors of this my Last Will & Testament hereby Declaring & Ratifying this & no Other to be my Last Will & Testament  In Testimony whereof I have hereunto Set my hand & Seal this Sixth Day of August Anno Domini One Thousand Seven-hundred & Seventy Two ~

Signed Sealed Published Pronounced

and Declared by the said John

Wright to be his Last Will & Testament                                                                        John Wright                       (seal)

In Presence of us the Subscribers—

        Josiah Chandler

        Joseph Bennett

        Zebedee Chandler

 

                                                                                                Plymouth Ss June the 6th 1774.

                                                                                                I Joseph Wright the Only Surviving Exr

                                                                                                In the Within Will named Do hereby Renounce

                                                                                                The Executorship Witness my hand

                                                                                                                                                                Joseph Wright

 

Know Ye that on the Sixth Day of June 1774 the Last Will and Testament of John Wright Late of Plymton in said County Yeoman Deceased was Presented for Probate by Joseph Wright the Only Surviving Executor (who at the Same Time Renounced the Executorship) Therein Named, and proved by Josiah Chandler and Zebedee Chandler, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Adam Wright Administrator Cum Testamento annexo to faithfully Execute the said Will and to Administer the Estate.

 

The Inventory of the Estate of Mr. John Wright late of Plymton, was appraised by Jabez Newland, Zebedee Chandler, and Elijah Bisbee on 3 Sept. 1774, and totaled £412.7.2.1, including his homestead and dwelling house valued at £276.13.4, and his Cedar Swamp, Woodland and Meadow valued at £86.13.4. Adam Wright, the Administrator on the estate, gave his oath to the inventory on 5 Sept. 1774.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 21, p. 617-620, from FHL microfilm #0550712.

 

 

Will of Joseph Wright of Plymouth, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1788) *

                In the Name of God amen I Joseph Wright of Plymouth in the County of Plymouth yeoman, being sick and weak in body, but of sound Mind and Memory and understanding do make and publish this my Last Will & Testament in manner & form following to wit—  First of all I give and bequeath to my dear Wife Sarah Wright the one third part of all my personal Estate to be at her own disposal and the Improvement of one third part of all my Real Estate.—

Also I give and bequeath unto my Daughter Susanna Rickard the Wife of Abner Rickard, Three Pounds to be paid out of my personal Estate; Also I give & bequeath unto Mary Samson my Daughter, the Wife of Sylvanus Samson three Pounds to be paid out of my personal Estate. Also I give and bequeath unto my Son Joshua all my Estate both real & personal, (not otherwise disposed of in this my Will) lying in Plymouth, Plimpton, Middleborough & Duxborough provided my Son Joseph Wright shall never return, who I am apprehensive is not living, if he is living and shall ever return home, the one half of my real Estate that I have bequeathed to my Son Joshua, I bequeath to him my said Son Joseph Wright, and I hereby nominate and appoint my Wife Sarah and my Son Joshua Wright Executors of this my last Will & Testament

In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my Hand and Seal this Twenty seventh day of February in the year of our Lord, one Thousand seven hundred & eighty eight –

signed sealed published and declared by the said

Testator Joseph Wright as and for his last Will                                                              Joseph Wright                   (seal)

and Testament in the presence of us who in

his presence & at his request have subscribed

our Names as witnesses thereto —

                Josiah Cotton

                Joseph Jennings

                William Pearson

 

Presented for probate on 4 Sept. 1804 by Joshua Wright, the Executor therein named, and proved by Josiah Cotton Esqr. and Joseph Jennings, Baker, two of the witnesses. Letters Testamentary were granted to Joshua Wright.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 40, p. 94-95, from FHL microfilm #0550901.

 

 

Will of Richard Wright of Plymouth, Colony of New Plymouth (1691) *

I Richard Wright of ye town of Plimouth in ye County and Colony of New Plimouth in New England being at present of Sound and Disposing mind and memory under bodily weakness not knowing when the hour of my Death shall come Do make this my last Will and Testament in mañer and forme following—hereby revoaking all former Wils First I Comit my soul to God that made it Resting on ye onely merits of Christ my Redeemer for Eternall Salvation and my body to ye Earth to be buried in a decent mañer. My worldly Estate that God hath lent me I thus Dispose: My Will is that all my Estate Real and personall House lands money or any moveables & Chattels in what kind soever be Equally and faithfully Divided betwixt my three Children Adam Esther and Mary Also my Will is that my Daughter Mary have her living in my house During her Widowhoode. and in as much as my son Adam hath heretofore had a full Double portion in lands my will & Desire is that my sd Son Deal kindly in Carefull providing what in him Lyes for my daughter Mary price Also I Make my son and two Daughters Executors of this my Last Will & Testament Also I do hereby appoint & desire my Loving friends John Nelson & Isaac Cushman to be Overseers of this my Will and I Intende their Care to see it faithfully pformed in a just distribution of my Estate to my Children as is above Expressed In Attestation yt this is my Last Will and Testament I set to my hand & seal This Eigth Day of june 1691 I desire also & Impower John Sturtevant to be on of ye overseers of this my Will.                                                                                                                                                                                                   The mark of

Signed Sealed & Declared by                                                                                           Richard R Wright

Richard Wright to be his last                                                                                                                                                             (seal)

Will and Testament

In presence of       {John Cotton

                                {Nathll Southworth

ye Mark M of Martha Cobb.

 

june 24th, 1691 Mr John Cotton and Nathll Southworth two of ye witnesses here named made oath in Plimouth before ye Magistrates of ye county of Plimouth that they were present and saw ye above named Richard Wright Sign & Seal & heard him Declare this above written to be his last will & Testament & yt to ye best of yr judgment he was of a disposing mind & memory when he so did.

 

June ye 19th Day 1691 An Inventory of ye Estate of Richard Wright late Deceased taken by us whose names are under written, [not totaled.]

                                                                                                                                Isaac Cushman

                                                                                                                                John Sturtevant

June 24th 1691

Adam Wright made Oath in Plimouth before ye Magistrates of ye County of Plimouth that the before written is a true Inventory of ye Estate of his Father Richard Wright late of Plimouth deceased So far as he knoweth & that if more shall come to his knowledge he will discover it

                                                                                                Attest Saml Sprague Clerk

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate, Vol. 1, p. 101-103, from FHL microfilm #0550708.

 

 

Will of Samuel Wright of Plympton, County of Plymouth, Province of the Massachusetts Bay (1772) *

                                                In the Name of GOD, Amen. ~

I Samuel Wright of Plimpton in the county of Plymouth in New-England yeoman, being weak of body but of perfect mind & memory thanks be given unto GOD therefor, calling unto mind the mortality of my body, and knowing that it is apointed for all men once to dye, do make & ordain this my last will and testament, that is to say, principally and first of all I give and recomend my soul into the hands of GOD that gave it, and my body I recomend to the earth to be buried in decent christian burial at the discretion of my executor hereafter-named, nothing doubting but at the general resurrection I shall receive the same again by the mighty power of GOD, and as touching such worldly estate wherewith it pleased GOD to bless me in this life, I give demise & dispose of the same in the following manner & form. –

        Imprimis, I give and bequeath to Anna my welbeloved wife, and to her heirs and assigns forever one half of my dwelling house wherein I now dwell that half of said house that she shall chuse with one half of a piece of land lying round said house, bounded as followeth, Begiñing at the southwest corner of the Land that leads from the aforesaid dwelling-house to the highway, thence ranging north seven degrees east six poles thence south sixtyfour degrees east seven poles & an half, thence south nineteen degrees west four poles to the southerly side of the way that leads from Joseph Wright’s, thence bounded westerly by said way to the bound first-mentioned. Also I give to my wife free & clear the one half of my indoors movable estate, excepting those things that I lent to my daughter Sarah Hall when she removed to Kingston, and has since returned them back. Also I give to my wife for term of life one third part of the improvement of my homestead. ~

        I give to my son Samuel Wright in consideration of the Labor that he did for me after he was twenty one years of age, the dwelling-house that he now dwells in. Item I give to my son Samuel Wright and to his heirs & assigns forever part of my homestead lying on the easterly side of the highway bounded as followeth. Begiñing at the bridge at Esqr. Bradford,s line, thence bounded by said Bradford,s line up stream till it comes to Joseph Wright’s line, thence by the range of said land north seven degrees east to the northwest corner thereof, and so on the same course till it comes to the land that was deacon Ebenezer Soul,s thence bounded by said land westerly till it comes to the highway, thence bounded southerly by the highway to the bridge first-mentioned, excepting the house that I now dwell in & the piece of land lying about said house, as is above set off & bounded, and a way as it now goes from Joseph Wright’s land to the highway, and a way across the northerly end of said land next to Soul’s line twenty feet in wedth thro’ gates & barrs. ~

        Item, I give to my son Jacob Wright, and to his heirs & assigns forever, part of my homestead, bounded as followeth, Begiñing at the northwest corner of Joseph Wright’s land, thence easterly by said Wright’s land Sixty three poles & six feet to a maple tree marked in or near said range, thence north seven degrees east till it comes to Soul’s line, thence bounded westerly by Soul’s land till it comes to the land given to my son Samuel; allowing a way twenty feet in wedth at the northerly end thereof thro’ gates or barrs. also I give to my son Jacob Wright and to his heirs & assigns forever, one half of my dwelling house wherein I now dwell with the one half of the piece of land lying round said house, as before set off and bounded. ~

        Item, I give to my son Edmond’s children in equal division among them all all that part of my homestead lying to the eastward of the land that I have given to my son Jacob with the privilege of a way twenty feet in wedth thro’ gates or barrs at the northerly end of the Land given to my two sons Samuel & Jacob, and also I give to my son Edmond,s children my eastermost lot of swamp at Swan-hole. ~

Item, I give to my daughter Sarah Hall and to her heirs & assigns forever, part of my homestead lying on the west side of the highway bounded as followeth, Begiñing at a forked apple-tree standing on the west side of the highway opposite to the lane that leads from my dwelling-house to the highway thence ranging south eighty eight degrees west to a white oak tree standing in or near the range of Scott’s land, thence bounded southerly by said Scott’s land till it comes to the forge-pond, thence bounded by said pond up stream to the highway, thence northerly by the highway to the bound first-mentioned. Also I give to my daughter Sarah Hall and to her heirs & assigns forever my westermost lot of swamp at Swan-hole and six acres of the Land that I had of Barnabas Raymond to be measurd. off at the southerly end of said Lot.

        Item, I give to my grandson Nathan Wright all that part of my homestead lying on the westerly side of the highway not heretofore given to my daughter Sarah.

        I give to my two sons Samuel & Jacob, and to their heirs and assigns forever, my Lot of cedar-swamp at south-meadow-cedar-swamp, and the lot of cedar-swamp, at Beaver-dam-cedar-swamp, and the Land that I had of Azariah Witon, and my Lot of land that I had of Barnabas Raymond excepting the six acres heretofore give to my daughter Sarah. ~

        Item, I give to my grandson Edmond Wright four pounds yearly and every year from the time that he arrived to sixteen years of age till my decease to be paid out of my personal estate by my executor in a reasonable time. ~

   Item. I give to my grand-daughter Lydia Hall one feather bed & furniture.

   I give to my two sons Samuel & Jacob in equal division, all my wearing aparel.

   I give to my daughter Sarah Hall the houshold goods that I lent to her when she removed to Kingston, and she has since returned them to me again. And that part of my indoors movable estate not before disposed off in this my last will & testament I give the one half thereof to my daughter Sarah Hall, and the rest & residue thereof give to my son Edmond,s children. My will is and I do positively order my two sons Samuel & Jacob to provide so much fire-wood cut & brought to the door for my wife yearly & every year during her natural life, or so long as she remains my widow as is needful for her fire.  I will and positively order my just debts & funeral charges to be paid out of my outdoor movable estate, and the rest & residue thereof I give to my two sons Samuel & Jacob, and if I should have any real estate that is not disposed off in this my last will & testament, I do give to my daughter Sarah Hall and to her heirs & assigns forever.

        Lastly I do constitute make & ordain my trusty & well-beloved son Samuel Wright my sole executor of this my last will & testament, and do hereby utterly disallow, revoke & disanul all & every other former testaments, wills, legacies & bequests & executors by me in any ways before-named willed & bequeathed, ratifying & confirming this and no other to be my last will & testament. In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand & seal this fourteenth day of October in the year of our Lord 1772.

Signed, sealed, published, pronounced & declard.

by the said Samuel Wright as his Last will & testamt.                                                 Samuel Wright                                  (seal)

in the presence of us the subscribers. ~

Gideon Bradford, Levi Bradford, Zebedee Chandler

 

Presented for probate on 1 Feb. 1773 by Samuel Wright, the Executor therein named, and proved by Gideon Bradford and Levi Bradford, two of the witnesses. Letters of Administration were granted to Samuel Wright, the Executor.

 

The Inventory of the estate of Samuel Wright, late of Plimpton, was appraised on 18 Mar. 1773 by Gideon Bradford, Zebedee Chandler, and Joseph Wright, and totaled £726.5.11, including his homestead farm and buildings valued at £489.4.0, and his cedar swamp out lands & iron-oar valued at £119.8.4. Samuel Wright, the executor, gave his oath to the inventory on 5 Apr. 1773.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 21, p. 308-310, from FHL microfilm #0550712.

 

 

Will of Sarah Wright of Plympton, Plymouth County, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1848) *

   Be it remembered, that I Sarah Wright of Plympton in the County of Plymouth and Commonwealth of Massachusetts Widow of Ebenezer Wright, late of Plympton, deceased, considering the uncertainty of this mortal life, and being of sound mind and memory, blessed be Almighty God for the same, do make and publish this my last Will and Testament in manner and form following (that is to say) I give and bequeath unto Rufus Wright of Plympton aforesaid, and to his heirs and assigns forever all my right title and interest in the Real and Personal Estate willed and bequeathed to me by my husband, the aforesaid Ebenezer Wright in his last Will and Testament, bearing date the fourth day of February in the year of our Lord one thousand Eight hundred and forty seven, of which I shall be possessed at the time of my decease, after my Just debts and funeral charges are paid out of it. –

                And I hereby appoint the aforesaid Rufus Wright sole Executor of this my last Will and Testament hereby revoking all former Wills and Testaments by me made. –

                In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and Seal the Second day of March in the year of our Lord One thousand Eight hundred and forty eight. ~

                Signed, sealed, published and declared by                                                     Sarah Wright                                     (seal)

the above named Sarah Wright to be her last Will

and Testament, in the presence of us who have hereunto

subscribed our names as witnesses in the presence of

the Testator. –                      Lewis Bradford

                                                Alonzo Wright

                                                Sarah H Wright

 

Presented for probate on the first Tuesday of July 1850 by Rufus Wright, the Executor therein named, and proved by Lewis Bradford and Sarah H. Wright, two of the witnesses whose names are subscribed therein. Letters Testamentary were granted to Rufus Wright, the Executor.

 

Rufus Wright, of Plympton, was appointed as Executor of the last Will and Testament of Sarah Wright, late of Plympton, widow, on 2 July 1850, with Jonathan Parketr and Zacheus Sherman, both of Plympton, as sureties.

No inventory of her estate was recorded.

 

* Transcribed by John A. Maltby from Plymouth County Probate Vol. 92, p. 275-276, from FHL microfilm #0555640, and Vol. 2H, p. 237.

 

 

© 2004 John A. Maltby, Redwood City, California