Abstracted by James Pylant
Will Book 1, Walker County, Alabama;
Family History Library microfilm 1,031,135, item 1
Walker County, Alabama, lost its earliest records in a courthouse fire on 22 July 1877. The first volume of last wills and testaments covers those filed after the 1877 fire, though some were written as early as the 1860s.
THOMAS ASHCRAFT (pages 43-46): “It is my will that all my property real and personal and mixed of whatever kind or nature it may be, shall be Kept together and . . .no more of my personal property be sold, than may be necessary to pay all my Just debts. Daughters Sarah H. Ashcraft and Martha L. Ashcraft, “my only living children” appointed executors. The estate is to be managed “so as to make living for my daughters and raise my grandchildren. His “only living grand children” are named as Abigail Kitchens, “daughter of my daughter Mary Kitchens deceased” and Pierce Hooker, “son of my daughter Emily E. Hooker deceased.” (Signed) Thomas Ashcraft. Witnesses: J. B. Sparks, W. H. McLain and John Manasco. 27 July 1885. Proven in court 6 October 1885.
A. J. BASHELL (pages 176-180): All real estate to beloved heirs: Martha C. Smith, Sarah E. Guttery, Robert W. Bashell, Isham P. Bashell, James B. Bashell, Salina J Bashell, Essey Farees Bashell Townley, Elzoda D. Bashelland Eppy A. Bashell. Robert W. Bashell is “justly indebted to me” in the sum of $85.00, which is to be deducted out of his share of the estate. Land is to be kept among heirs to sell to each other as “thay think propper so as to Keepe my real estate among my beloved children.” John W. Gutteryand William R. Bashell appointed executors. (Signed) A. J. Bashell. Witnesses: W. D. Bashell, M. M. Bashell, and John King. 23 September 1881. Recorded 17 Dec. 1901.
ELIZABETH BICKERTON (pages 147-151): To beloved daughter Mary A. Bickerton, four lots in the town of Oakman, including the property “better known as the Byrd Day, Jr. hotel,” plus household and kitchen furniture. To beloved son John Bickerton, an undivided one-fourth interest in a township lot, including all mineral rights. To beloved daughter Ellen Bickerton an undivided interest in a township lot, including all mineral rights. G. M. Masterson appointed executor. (Signed) Elizabeth Bickerton. Witnesses: James M. Tubb, George M. Masterson and M. G. Masterson. Codicil dated 2 March 1895 leaves all livestock to beloved husband, John W. Bickerton. Witnesses: G. M. Masterston and Miss Kate Bickerton. 27 February 1892. Recorded 7 June 1892.
DAVIDSON BLACKWELL (pages 51-54): Heirs: “one-seventh part of all effects except beds and bedding” to beloved wife Matilda Blackwell, eldest son Alexander H. Blackwell, heirs of deceased son John P. Blackwell, youngest son William R. Blackwell, and heirs of deceased daughter Mary A Davis. Eldest daughter Sarah E McDade and youngest daughter Bunavista Morris each receive one-seventh and “one half of my beds and bedding added thereto to be equally divided.” William L. Davis appointed guardian for the heirs of Mary A Davis. Margaret M Blackwell appointed guardian for the heirs of John P. Blackwell. Son William R. Blackwell and son-in-law, George W McDade appointed executors. (Signed) Davidson Blackwell. Witnesses: Henry Ferguson, D. J. Townley, and John T. Harris. 4 October 1884. Recorded 25 July 1887.
DAVIS A. BRAKEFIELD (pages 159-162): To wife Elizabeth and daughter Nancy Brakefield, “all my personal property of every Kind and description, including any debts that may be due me.” Elizabeth and Nancy were also to receive dwelling house and township lots (116 acres more or less). Wife Elizabeth is to receive a lot at Gamble Mines, in Walker County, containing two acres. Son Simson D. Brakefield to receive four acres. To sons Mark Brakefield and William Brakefield and granddaughter Sarah Richardson, township lots of about 12 or 15 acres. Daughter Nancy to receive the remainder of lot at Gable Mines after the decease of his wife. Simson D. Brakefield appointed executor. (Signed) D. A. Brakefield. Witnesses: C. W. Owen and Wash W. Williams. 25 September 1899. Recorded 9 October 1899.
JOHN BROWN (pages 1-4): Heirs: beloved wife, Matilda Brown “all my household and Kitchen furniture and all of my books all of my personal and real estate for her use and benefit and my three children, to wit: Lucinda A., Mary F. and Susan M. Brown, which my wife is to hold the same during her natural life or widowhood, and after either the same is to be equally divided between my three children . . . Except my watch, bible, pistol & other side arms and ten dollars in silver. My pistols & other side arms I give to Lucinda A. Brown and five dollars in silver. I give my watch to Mary F. Brown. I give my bible & five dollars in Silver to Susan M. Brown. I give my pistols and other side arms to Lucinda A. Brown because of her spunk. I give my watch to Mary F because of her fancy for jewelry. I give my Bible to Susan M because of her meekness.” Wife is appointed executor. Dated 18 August 1874. Signed, John Brown. Witnesses: H. W. Hamilton and Henry Ferguson. Proven in court on 23 April 1875.
MOSES CAMAK (pages 26-28): Heirs: wife Elisabeth H Camak, “during the time she may remain a widow, all the real, personal and Mixed property.” If Elisabeth “should marry again, I give and bequeath unto her and my children in equal shares and to share alike, all my real personal and mixed property. Elisabeth and son, William H Camak, appointed executors. (Signed) Moses Camak. Witnesses: Joseph W. Hampton, A. J. Guttery, F A Gamble, and William L. Sivley. 2 January 1867. Proven in court 27 August 1873.
EDWARD K. CARLISLE (pages 212-216): To wife Florence C. Carlisle, “an estate for her life in and to my house and lot in the City of Selma now occupied by me as a residence with remainder over to my children, share and share alike.” Estate is to be kept together until youngest child becomes of age, except house and lot. Alexander Jones of Selma appointed executor and shall have absolute control of all property, including railroad interest with the right to vote any stock. The business firm of Carlisle Jones also shall be carried on as long as executor shall consider it advantageous. (Signed) Edward K. Carlisle, Jr. Witnesses: J. R. Satterfield and A. P. Young. 13 May 1879. Filed 21 October 1886.
HARRY H. CHEATHAM of Galloway (pages 103-105): To wife, Parlee Matilda Cheatham, “the dwelling house and land connected therewith and now occupied by us as our place of residence and all the furniture including our Piano and other musical instruments together will all merchandise and the store house and land which it stands,” and all other real and personal property. Witnesses: A. L. Hendon, B. W. Whitfield, and J. W. Cheatham. 27 May 1894. Filed 14 Jun 1894.
JAMES CRANFORD [also recorded as James Copeland] (pages 71-74): “I give and bequeath my estate and property real and personal to my beloved wife Clarissa Ann Cranford . . .if she remains a widow. But if she marries again, to take only a childs part.” She is to sell any of the personal property when it may be necessary for the better improvement of the estate for her comfort and the support, comfort and education of “all my minor children and that are unmarried.” His minor children, “as they may become of age or may marry shall have as much advanced to them out of my estate as I have already given to the two that are married.” At the death of his wife, remainder of estate to be equally divided among children, Nancy Adaline Copeland, Rebecca I. Smith, Arthur I. Cranford, William W. Cranford, Lidia Ann Cranford and Martha Agnes Cranford. Wife appointed executrix. (Signed) James Cranford. Witnesses: William Randolph, William M. Sherer, and Elisha A Sherer. 24 April 1872. Recorded 25 September 1872.
DANIEL DAVIS (pages 18-19): Heirs: Louisa Davis, wife, to hold together “all my property both real and personal of every description whatever” and managed by her. At her death or marriage, the entire estate to be equally divided between his children (not named). Wife appointed executrix. (Signed) Daniel Davis. Witnesses: J. R. Shepherd and A. J. Guttery. 26 April 1861. Proven in court 22 September 1874.
W. B. DAY (pages 163-166, 174-175): Executors are to sell all property, both real and personal, except one cow and calf. To beloved wife Margarett Day, $100.00 and one good cow and calf. The net proceeds arising from sales and the collection of notes and other claims due bequeathed to wife Margaret, to children and grandchildren: D. M. Dau, Manerva Day, wife of E. K. Dodson; O. H. Day, C. H. Day, Robert Day, Nancy C. Gaines, wife of R. P. Gaines; W. B. Day, A. S. Day, S. D. Dayand M. E. Williams, wife of L. W. Williams; and the heirs of Luticia Inman, dec’d,: Marion Inman, Franklin Inman, Seneay Newtonand Ellen Inman and the heirs of Martha A. Rabun dec’d.: Letta Shepherd, wife of Jefferson Shepherd and Jno. Raburn. Sons D. M. Day and S. D. Day appointed executors. (Signed) W. B. Day. Witnesses: R. L. Jones, J. M. Tubb, D. A. Cobb, No. McQueen. 29 June 1885. Recorded 22 July 1901.
MARY P. FERRIER of Corona (pages 143-146): To husband Joseph L. Ferrier, “the possession absolute” of all property both real and personal. “I give and bequeath to my husband[’s] four children at the death of my husband their father, the above property which shall be divided between the four children… Joseph John Ferrier, Anais Elizabeth Ferrier, Jeanne Odelle Ferrier, Charles Augusta Ferrier.” Husband appointed executor. (Signed) Mary P. Ferrier. Witnesses: W. M. Cunningham and E. Dunderdale, both residents of Corona. 3 August 1897. Recorded 14 November 1897.
RICHARD FILES (pages 83-86): To beloved wife Mary Files, “all of my property of whatever description, whether real, personal or mixed, and any monies.” To children and grandchildren, Martha M Garner, John W Files, Mary D Kitchens, D. J. Files, A. L. Files, Mildred A. Hayez, R M Files, Cornelia Files, Francis Boshell, and the heirs of my daughter Catherine Stevenson, “and to the heirs of any of my said children, should they die before me, . . .the remainder of all of my real and personal property of whatever description including any monies on hand . . .from and after the death of my beloved wife Mary. The children are to divide the property equally, but the grandchildren are to take “only the share to which my son or daughter, as they case may be, would have been entitled.” D. J. and A. L. Files appointed executors. (Signed) R Files. Witnesses: C. C. Scott and W. B. Appling. 24 January 1879. Recorded 11 January 1892.
JOHN FRAZIER (pages 9-12): Heirs: Daughter, Louisa Jane Thomas, 15 acres off the East half of or E quarter section 3, township 14, Range 5 west. Remainder of land and plantation to be supervised for rent and management for best interest of Eliza A Frazier, “my beloved wife,” and Mary E. Frazier, “my little daughter.” Mary E. to receive final settlement when she arrives at full age or marries. If she dies without issue, the remainder to go to the children of Louisa Jane Thomas. Martin M. Phillips appointed as executor. (Signed) John Frazier. Witnesses: S. J. Fields, E. M. Robinson, and S. M. Gunter. Codicil dated 21 July 1876, states that Martin M. Phillips to make inquiry and investigation as to “Whether or not my wife Adaline has a living husband.” If his investigation reveals a living husband, all of his wife’s property is to be equally divided between his two lawful daughters.” Witnesses were J. L. Phillips, W. J. Cross and C. V. Phillips. 22 June 1876. Proven in court on 6 September 1876.
JOHN S. GAINES (pages 55-58): To beloved wife Jinnie B. Gaines the use improvement and income of dwelling house, warehouses, and land “during her natural life, and then to my bodily heirs.” She was to receive all the residue of estate, real, personal or mixed. H. P. Gaines, brother, appointed executor. (Signed) John S. Gaines. Witnesses: S. N. Morris, J. D. Perkin, and L. P. Jones. 8 December 1887. Filed 15 December 1887.
FRANKLIN N. GAMBLE (pages 116-123): Being “advanced in years and in feeble health,” he named beloved wife Mary A. Gamble and son-in-law John B. Carrington as executors. He requested that “no account be made against his minor children for board, clothing, education or incidental expenses until they are 21 years of age, provided thy remain at home with their mother. But should they receive money or other property to secure a profession or trade, such amount shall be a legal charge against their portions.” Wife Mary A. and minor children, Frank A., Foster K. and Thomas O. Gamble, to be supported from the assets of estate. His wife is authorized to use five percent of the estate’s entire income for church and Christian charity, with preference to foreign missions. The estate is to be divided “at the proper time” into five shares among his children, Leila J. Carrington, Frank A., Foster K. and Thomas O. Gamble, and wife Mary. “As I have heretofore advanced to my daughter, Leila G. Carrington, one lot in the City of Jasper, valued at $600.00, as evidenced by deed to her and her husband, J. B. Carrington, the said amount of $600.00 is to be charged to her on the final settlement of my estate. (Signed) Franklin A. Gamble. Witnesses: W. C. Rosamond, H. M. Stovall, Jno. A. Gravlee. 23 July 1895. Filed 28 October 1895.
ROBERT GOLDTHWAITE (page 266): To wife Annie Paul Goldthwaite, “all property, both real and personal of which I may die seized and possessed, or in any wise entitled.” Wife is appointed executrix. (Signed) Robert Goldthwaite. Witnesses: S. B. Marks, Jr., and R. E. Seibels. 28 August 1894. Recorded 16 February 1903.
CHARLES JEFFERSON HESTER of Galloway (pages 124-128): To beloved wife Octavia C. Hester and daughter Mary C. Hester, “a certain policy of insurance for three thousand dollars and the proceeds thereof issued to me by the New York Life Insurance Company” and all money, real and personal or mixed property. Wife Octavia, who shall have the entire management, control and disposition, is appointed executrix. (Signed) Charles J. Hester. Witnesses: E. H. Cabiniss and J. D. L. Davis. 17 October 1896. Filed 27 November 1896.
HENRIETTA JACKSON (pages 63-66): Heirs: To beloved husband Elijah Jackson, “my homestead, the lot of land with the buildings and all improvements thereon, situate in the town of Jasper.” Husband appointed executor. (Signed) Henrietta Jackson. Witnesses: T. L. Sowell and C. M. Sides. Recorded 29 July 1889.
MARIAH JONES of Bartonville (pages 79-82): To husband, Soney Jones, “all the House hold furniture which may be contained in my homestead at the time of my death also my personal property both horses and cattle of which I may die possessed except ten dollars to be paid out of my personal property to Martha Ann Stuart also ten dollars to be paid to the heirs of Charity C Sanders each receiving ten dollars. Husband to also receive homestead in section 13, township 14. Nathaniel Barton and J T Croft appointed executors. (Signed) Mariah Jones. Witnesses: N Barton and J T Croft. 21 May 1891. Recorded 3 August 1891.
JAMES A. F. KIRKPATRICK (pages 110-115): Being of “advanced age,” he left “all my estate, both real and personal” to be equally divided among his heirs and devisees: Racenda A. Kiker (wife of L. P. Kiker), Martha A. Floyd, John H. Morgan Malone, James A. Kiker, Rebecca J. Williams, J. E. Williams, W. William Williams, Mary J. Williams (heirs of said Rebecca J. Williams) and John W. Williams, Nancy Malone, Sarah Sims, J. F. Williams (heirs of Elizabeth Williams, deceased). John H. Morgan Malone is to also receive “one good bed and outfit or furniture extra.” L. P. Kiker appointed executor. (Signed) J. A. Kirkpatrick. Witnesses: Ira Robins and Geo. Kuder. Codicil dated 9 April 1892, directs that his executor to “hold in trust the one share of my estate bequeathed to Martha A. Floyd, and to pay over to her from time to time so much of it as, in his Judgment, her necessities may require for her support.” 27 February 1892. Recorded 13 May 1895.
FRANCIS LELIVER [indexed as Frances Lelicure] (pages 106-109): To beloved wife “all of my Effects so Longe as she Lives and at my Wifes Death The property to be Equally Devided between Thos Leleaver and Lue Leleaver.” Wife Roselee Leleaver appointed executrix. (Signed) Francoes Leliavre, 16 September 1892. Witnesses: John Lanyon and Ed Chamboredon. Recorded 12 March 1895.
ROBERT LEE MILLER of Jasper (pages 224-288): To beloved mother Eliza L. Miller, “two certain policies of Insurance,” one for $2,000.00 and another for $3,000.00. Mother appointed executrix. (Signed) Robt Lee Little. Witnesses: T. B. Dilworth and A. R. Brindley. 25 November 1897. Three codicils (although not labeled as such) are appended to this will. All three bequests are insurance policies to his mother. The first, dated 14 January 1899, is for $5,000.00; the second, dated 1 June 1900, is for $5,000; and the third, dated 1 September 1900, is for $10,000.00. Recorded 24 February 1905.
JOHN MADISON (pages 40-42): Heirs: To wife Susan Madison, “the use improvement, and income of my dwelling house, outhouses, all my lands, and their appurtenances . . . And the use and income of all my personal property of whatever description.” After his wife’s death, all remaining property to be divided “among all my lawful heirs according to their legal rights under the laws of the state of Alabama.” (Signed) John Madison. Witnesses: William Nesmith and James Clements. 15 March 1866. Proven in court 12 November 1866.
DAVID MANASCO (pages 33-34): Heirs: “I give all my property to my wife Elisabeth R. Manasco during her lifetime or widowhood, at which time I want all my property to be equally divided among my children. Wife Elisabeth R., appointed executrix, authorized to sell personal property “but not Land, my land is not to be sold until my Children are all grown.” (Signed) David Manasco. Witnesses: T. J. King, Jr., W. A. Inman, and John Manasco, M. D. 10 November 1883. Proven in court 15 July 1884.
JAMES R. MARTIN (pages 16-18): Heirs: Sarah U. Martin, his wife, “the use, improvement and income of my dwelling house, Land, appurtenances…and “all my Estate, Real and personal . . .to sell or despose of as she may see proper.” At her death or remarriage, the estate to be sold and divided equally among “all my children.” Wife was appointed executrix. (Signed) J. R. Martin. Witnesses: John York, W. M. Jackson, and Wm. C. Wilbanks. 21 September 1870. Proven in court 14 July 1879.
BENJAMIN MOSELEY of Arkadelphia (pages 21-22): Heirs: Wife, Mary E. Mosely, “the use and full control of all my lands & tenements with the improvements thereon, and their appurtenances situated in the State of Alabama” and all personal property of whatever description. Serversionary interst in all my lands and tenements, with their appurtenances, to my beloved daughter, Frances Mosely,” to take affect at the death of his wife. Wife appointed executrix. (Signed) Benjamin Moseley. Witnesses: John H. Higgins and G. W. Brady. 20 October 1874. Proven in court, 14 June 1875.
DANIEL McCANN of Jasper [indexed as McCarns] (pages 134-142): All personal property, except promissory notes and rents for real estate that may be due or to become due to beloved niece, Telitha E. Robins, wife of Ira Robins. Executor is to collect $100 due or owing for rent of real estate and pay the same to beloved nephew, Swepson [?] Harkey of Tupelo, Mississippi. To the heirs of deceased nephew James Wilson, the sum of $100 equally divided. To heirs of deceased nephew Daniel Wilson, the sum of $100 equally divided. Ira Robins appointed executor. (Signed) Daniel McCann. Witnesses: J. D. Stephens and N. B. O’Rear. 22 September 1897. Recorded 13 November 1897.
W. W. McCARTY (page 70): To brothers and sisters, John T. Prescott, one three-year-old bay mare; James J Prescoat, one 12 year-old bay mare, and to each one yoke of oxen to be equally divided; Mary Roseaner Prescoatone colt ten days old and one cow and all my household and Kitchen furniture.” (Signed) W W McCarty. Witnesses: R. H. Andrews and M L Thayers. Henry J. Prescoat appointed executor. Witnesses: J S Hayes and R H Andrews. 8 April 1889. Filed 1 December 1890.
RICHARD McDUFF (pages 7-8): Legatees: Wife, Elizabeth McDuff, “all my real estate,” grandson Richard M. Hutto, one dollar; granddaughter, Louisa V. Hutto, one dollar; heirs of daughter, Mary A. McLain, deceased, one dollar; daughter, Emily Davis, one dollar; son, James F. McDuff and daughter Amanda Hutto (wife of Chas. Hutto), Elizabeth Daniel (wife of J. C. Daniel), Emily E. Kirkpatrick (wife of Munroe Kirkpatrick), Samantha J. Copeland (wife of William Copeland) and James R. G. McDuff, “the remainder of my estate to be divided in equal parts, there being no distinction made on account of children or grand children.” Son James F. McDuff appointed executor. Signed Richard McDuff {Seal}. Witnesses: F. A. Camble and W. J. Copeland. 26 June 1874. Proven in court 9 September 1876.
THOMAS PRICE of Horse Creek (pages 152-158): Unto beloved son, John Price, a deaf mute, the sum of $4,000.00. Executor is requested to serve as guardian for son John and post bond. After the payments of debts, all real and personal property, “wherever situated, in Alabama, Pennsylvania and elsewhere,” is to be sold, the proceeds of which are to be divided among sons William R. Price, Frank Price, Charles Price, beloved daughter Jane Davis (wife of John C. Davis), son John Price, and the children or heirs of deceased daughter Mattie Strohur [?]. Joseph H. McGuire appointed executor. (Signed) Thomas Price, 22 November 1897. Witnesses: J. J. Davidson and R. H. Palmer. Recorded 11 July 1898.
ROLAND ROBINS (pages 75-78): To wife Elizabeth Robins, the use, improvements and income from dwelling houses and lands. She also receives all personal property and money on hand. Phillip Robins, beloved son, appointed executor. (Signed) Roland Robins. Witnesses: D H Reid, L C Sloan, and M Robins. 5 December 1890. Record 2 January 1891.
A. E. ROBINSON (pages 59-62): Heirs: beloved son J M M Robinsonand beloved daughter Francis D Robinson, “all my real estate to be equally divided” after the death of beloved wife Nancy Robinson, “which is distinctly understood that Nancy Robinson is the proper owner of said real estate during her life.” One two-horse wagon and all farming utencils to J M M Robinson, who was also appointed executor. Daughter Francis to receive bay mare, one cow and one yearling heifer, and all household and kitchen furniture. (Signed) A E Robinson. Witnesses: Wm. Randolph, W. W. Wilsonand P. C. Gabbert. 5 September 1887. Recorded 9 January 1888.
ABSALOM SHERER (pages 91-94): Township tracts to son Samuel G. Sherer, wife Sarah S Sherer, son Oscar M Sherer, and a half acre lot to son Thomas W. Sherer. Samuel G. and Joseph C. Sherer to take possession of town property and sell and divide the proceeds equally between Samuel G. Sherer, Joseph C. Sherer, Thomas W. Sherer, Oscar M. Sherer and Jennet E. Sherer. Daughter-in-law Rebecca I. Sherer to receive $300.00 and the balance of money to be divided equally Samuel G. Sherer, Joseph C. Sherer, Thomas W. Sherer, Oscar M. Sherer and Jennet E. Sherer. Joseph C. and Jennet E. to also receive township lots. (Signed) A. Sherer. Witnesses: Wm. Randolph and J. A. Johnson. Recorded 25 February 18
J. CRAIG SHERER of Jasper (pages 99-102): The testator, age 38, leaves equal shares of all money, notes and real estate to be divided between Sam G. Shererand Thos. W. Sherer, who are appointed executors. (Signed) J. Craig Sherer. 20 March 1893. Witnesses: J. F. Applingand Joe T. Sherer, both residents of Jasper, Walker County. Filed 7 July 1894.
JAMES C. SHERER (pages 88-90): To wife Mary A. Sherer, five hundred dollars. To beloved daughter, Francis C. Sherer, a mare, colt, four cows, one hundred dollars extra and also an Equal share of the balance in the division of the money with John M. Sherer, Joseph T. Sherer, Martha Jane Deason, Thomas N Sherer, and George H. Sherer. Joseph T. Sherer and J. M. Deason, appointed executors, were to sell a township tract and the proceeds equally divided between John T. Sherer, Martha Jane Deason, Joseph T. Sherer, Thomas N. Sherer, George H. Sherer, and Francis C. Sherer. (Signed) James C. Sherer. Witnesses: John F. Sherer and Jno. M. Sherer. 26 July 1892. Recorded 17 January 1893.
ELI A. SPARKS (pages 22-25): Bequests: Wife Mary C. Sparks, “all my real and personal property.” Sons Alain S. Sparks, Thomas E. Sparks and John E. Sparks and daughter Rutha Susan Sparks, the remainder of real and personal property after the decease or marriage of his widow. Wife appointed executrix, who was authorized to sell any personal property either at public or private sale to pay any or all expenses, educate the children as circumstances permit and give each son, “arriving at the age of twenty one years, or marrying off,” a horse and bridle. (Signed) Eli A. Sparks. Witnesses: James B. Boshell and John W. Sparks. 15 July 1862. A codicil dated 22 July 1872 states: “I do hereby authorize and empower my Executrix Mary C Sparks . . .to sell and convey the SW ¼ of the NE ¼ and the SE ¼ of the NW ¼ of Section 14, T 14 R 8 west, Situate lying & being in said county of Walker, either at public or private Sale. . .” James B. Boshell and John W. Sparks are again named as witnesses. Proven in court 7 October 1872.
WILLIAM L. STANLEY (pages 28-32): Being “over the age of twenty years, of feble health,” directed that all real and private property be inventoried and appraised, including that of his mercantile business, which will continued by his partner, George H Guttery. Heirs: Balance of money due the estate from his partnership to be paid to his wife, Lutitia Stanley. But should it be desired by my said wife and partner (after the payment of debts) have the option to divide the notes and accounts and close the mercantile. “It is my will, and I so direct that the premium on the insurance policy of my wife Luticia Stanley’s life be paid out of and with the assets of my said estate without being made a separate charge against her.” When all debts are paid and affairs of the estate are completed, all real and personal property, money, rights, and credits be turned over to Luticia, “and that she be authorized to use the same, for the support and Education of my minor children, and as well as her own support during her natural life or widowhood. At her death or remarriage, the property is to be divided among his children. Should his wife remarry, “she shall be entitled to share with my children.” Wife Lutitia Stanley and “my in law Geo. H. Guttery” were named as executors. Witnessed by A M Stovall, D J Giles, and J B Hughes. 14 June 1883. Proven in court 20 July 1883.
JAMES SUMMER (pages 28-32): Heirs: To beloved wife Martha Jane Summer, “I do hereby will and give unto her all of my real and personal property.” After her death, all that remains of his effects, “I give unto my dear and beloved children to wit: William Jefferson Summer, Andrew Virgil Summer, Collumbus Layfayett Summer and Alis Lanida Eveline Summer. (Signed) James Summer, 29 March 1887. Witnesses: William Adkins and David W. Sides, J. P. Proven in court 4 April 1887.
WILLIAM SWINDLE (pages 95-99): To beloved wife Susannah E. Swindle “the plantation on which we now reside,” containing 150 acres more or less. She is also to receive all live Stock, horses, cattle sheep, swine, etc., all the household furniture, wagons, vehicles and tools of every description, and four notes and interest. After her death, all remaining property is bequeathed to his children: Manda Wiggins, Vinie Williamson, William Swindle or his heirs, Elias Swindle or her heirs, J. H. Swindle, Permelia Davidson, Elizabeth Payne, Eliza Swindle, James Swindle, L. C. Swindle, George Swindle, Daniel Swindle, Mary Etta Cranford, L. B. Lawson, E. D. Swindle, Doctor V. Swindle, Jaiby W. Swindle and Sausan E. Swindle. L. C. Swindle appointed executor. (Signed) William Swindle. Witnesses: J. S. Watts and J. H. Morris. 13 February 1889. Filed 22 November 1893.
FREDERICK TAYLOR (pages 67-69): To beloved wife Sally Taylor “all my property, real, personal and mixed…to her exclusive benefit and behoof to own, use, sell and convey the same as she may see fit.” Wife appointed executrix. (Signed) Frederick Taylor. Witnesses: David Smith, G. H. Chappell, and Kitty Chapppell. Recorded 8 September 1890.
FLEMIN THOMPSON (pages 13-15): Legatees: Wife Elizabeth Thompson and son Flemin Rudolph Thompson to receive township tracts and personal property. [Executor(s) not appointed.] (Signed) Flemin Thompson. Witnesses: John S. Busby and George N. Miller, Jr. 2 March 1878. Proven in court 19 March 1879.
JAMES B. TUGGLE (pages 47-49): Heirs: All real and personal property to beloved wife Sarah, who “shall sell such perishable property as she will not need and out of the proceeds to give to Each of my heirs the amount of ten Dollars all of which shall be the property of my wife.” After her death, all real and personal property to be equally divided between E. H. Tuggle, W. Z. Tuggle, John Tuggle, Elizabeth Brassfield, Susannah Tuggle, Margaret Maulden, Matilda Gasden, Nancy Sanford, Joan Quinn, and “also the heirs of J. W. Tuggle and Sarah Jane Brassfield Deceased.” Wife Sarah and son E. H. Tuggle appointed executors. (Signed) James B. Tuggle. Witnesses: William F. Peterson and Jesse L. Regan. 2 September 1886. Proven in court 7 February 1887.
MARTIN WARD (pages 35-39): Heirs: “I give to my wife Nancy I Ward my Negro girl Amanda, and her children they being in lieu of six hundred and forty dollars by me received from her Mothers Estate upon our marriage.” His wife was also to receive a 45-acre tract of land “on which I now reside,” another tract of 160 acres, household furniture, and four Cows and calves twenty head of stock hogs, Ten head of sheep.” After her death, the land is to be sold for the benefit of his children. To son Matthias Ward, $450.00, “which he has already received” and $320.00 in Texas lands which has already been deeded to him. To son John L. Ward, $770.00, which he has already received. To daughter Margaret Templton, $415.00, which she has received, and $320.00 paid to her in Texas lands, which was deeded to her. To daughter Martha Jones, $450., which she has received, but “she has yet to receive three hundred and twenty dollars, to make her equal with the other heirs.” To son Reuben R. Ward, the sum of $770.00, which he has received, and a 125 acre tract and 15 acre tract, which he is to have for the sum of $420.00 with interest. Wife Nancy and son Reuben R. Ward appointed as executors. (Signed) Martin Ward. Witnesses: W. B. Drermen, Washington Wilson, and Washington Myers. 10 April 1863. Proven in court 14 September 1885.
JAMES J. WATTS (pages 5-6): Legatees: $500.00 for the education of little Sammie Watts “and if my wife has any other child by me, the same be set apart for it as for Sammie. “I will that all my property stay together as long as my wife lives or remains a widow, but if she should Marry, then that my property be equally divided, and that my wife receive a child part. . . I will that my wife give each child that marries as near as she thinks that the others children got who are married.” His wife, F. M. Watts, and son, R. L. Watts, were appointed executors. Signed: James J. Watts. Witnesses: L. B. Harbin, Thos. Davis, James L. Morris, and Samuel Walton, Sr. March 1874. Proven in court 20 September 1876.