Hawkins
County 
Wills
This is an on-going project being transcribed by the following volunteers: Audrae Mathis; Gary Fletcher; Betty Mize; Diana Arney; Karen Negron, Kathy Welder, Kimberli Buffaloe. Many thanks to these people. Wills will be added as they are transcribed, so check back often.
Page 94
Dated: February 22, 1812
Considering the uncertainty of this mortal life and being of sound and
perfect memory, blessed be Almighty God for the same, do make and publish
this my last will and testament in manner and form following. (Viz) After
all my legal debts are paid: First. I give and bequeath unto my beloved
wife Mary Curry the third of my estate both real and personal. I
do also give and bequeath unto my youngest two sons George and Samuel
the plantation whereon I now live. I also give and bequeath unto my
three daughters, (Viz) Rebecca, Ann and Margaret Curry three
cows and calves and four sheep, a feather bed and bed clothes to each,
likewise a horse and saddle, the horse not exceeding eight years old, nor
under fourteen hands high. I do also give and bequeath unto John McPheeters,
Arch’d Simpson, John and James Curry and Reuben Skelton
the sum of one dollar each. And lastly, as to all the rest, residue and
remainder of my personal estate, goods and chattels of what kind soever,
I give and bequeath the same to my said beloved wife Mary Curry whom
together with Samuel McPheeters, Executor and Executrix of this
my last will and testament, hereby revoking all former wills by me made.
In witness whereof I have hereunto sot my hand and seal This twenty second
day of February in the year of our Lord, one thousand, eight hundred and
twelve.
Samuel Curry (seal)
Signed, sealed published and declared by the above named Samuel Curry
to be his last will and testament, in the presence of us who at this request
and in his presence have hereunto subscribed our names as witnesses to
the same. Thomas Connilly John Marshall
Page 95
Dated: December 27, 1820
In the Name of God, Amen. I, Daniel Carey being weak of body, but
of sound mind and memory and recollecting that all men have once to die,
do make, ordain, publish and declare this to be my last will and testament
in the words and figures following. First. I give my soul to God from whom
it came and my body to the clay, to be decently and plainly buried, and
the funeral expenses paid together with all my just debts. Item 2nd. To
my daughter Sally Carey in Nelson County, Virginia, I give that
tract of land known by the name of Lee’s Place, containing 44 acres
in said County of Nelson (County) Virginia. Item 3rd. To my daughter Rebecca
Carey of said County of Nelson, Virginia, that part of land in said
county...known by name of Cooper’s Old Place, on the headwaters
of Rockfish River, adjoining land with Soloman Carey and Samain
Shropshire, containing one hundred and seven acres, be the same more
or less. Item 4th. To my daughter Mary Ann Carey, I give that tract
of land known by the name of Foxes Place, containing eighty acres,
lying in said County of Nelson, adjoining land with Richard and
Samuel Fox & Robert Henderson. And should there be another child
by my wife Susannah which I mout have been the father of, it shall
share equally with Mary Ann in the above described 80 acres of land.
The before described lands and children are all in the state of Virginia.
Item 5th. To Polly Hollin I gave possession of all the property
both real and personal, that is, that I hold in Hawkins County during her
natural life or widowhood, and at her death or marriage, as the case may
be, my son Daniel Carey is to be and fall heir to all of said estate
in said County of Hawkins, both real and personal. And should the said
Polly Hollin accept of said estate, it shall be on these conditions;
That she gives my son Daniel Carey good schooling until he be fourteen
or fifteen years old, at which time I wish him put to some trade or business
that he may make a living at. As to this my last Will and Testament in
forse at my decease, I constitute, nominate and appoint my worthy friends
Thomas Ingram and Jacob Miller...Executors to this my last
will in forse, revoking and disannuling all others heretofore made. Item
6th. At my decease, I wish a sale of all my property at a twelve months’
credit, except two milk cows, all the household and kitchen furniture,
farming tools and one mare, bed an bedding, together with the grain and
meat on hand and half of my stock of hogs, which named articles I wish
left on the farm unsold. In testimony whereof I the said Daniel Carey
have set my hand and affixed my seal This 27th day of December, 1820, in
presence of Luke Pannel James x Henry Daniel Carey (seal) (His mark)
Thomas Ingram and Ja’c Miller
Page 96
Dated: May 1, 1822
In the Name of the Father, Son & Holy Ghost, three persons but God.
I, Lewis Christian, Sr. of the County of Hawkins and State of Tennessee,
calling to mind the certainty and yet the uncertainty of the time when—
do make and ordain this my last will & Testament in the words and form
following, to wit: After commending my soul to God and my body to the dust,
to be buried in a decent Christian manner, hoping they will again be united
at the resurrection and enjoy a glorious immortality, I dispose of my worldly
goods as follows: I allow all my just debts to be paid in the first place.
I bequeath to my sons, John, Thomas, Lewis, Jr., Allen and James,
to each one dollar. I bequeath to my daughter Lucinda the lower
end of my place, beginning at a mulberry at the mouth of a hollow, at the
upper end of the old peach orchard on south side of the creek and including
the field and all the land to the lower end of the survey. I give and bequeath
to my daughter Peggy the upper end of my place Beginning on Maxwell’s
line, running forth poles down the river and then a straight line across
the upper end to the mountain. I give and bequeath to my daughters Betsy,
Polly and Nancy each one dollar. Also, I give and bequeath to
my daughter Nancy and her children 49 acres of land whereon she
lately lived, joining Francis Godard. I give and bequeath to my
son Lewis 50 acres of land joining his old survey, Alex’r Smith
and Alex’r Patterson whate in lines more or less. I give to my grandson
Thomas the place whereon my son Thomas now lives, containing
52 acres reserving to my son Thomas the use of the place during
his life. I bequeath to my grandson William, the son of my daughter
Sally, dec’d, 50 acres of land lying between my son Thomas and
Samuel Bailey with the improvements. I give and bequeath to my son
William the place I now live on joining Cindy below and Peggy
above, with the buildings and improvements. If my wife Peggy should
outlive me, I allow William, Cindy and Peggy to give her
30 bushels of corn per year during her natural life. I also nominate her
Executrix of this will. I also allow Peggy my wife to divide the
household and kitchen furniture between her three youngest children at
her discretion. I allow her also to have use of the mansion house and one
third of the farm during her life. I also nominate my son William my
other Executor. Whereas I have been informed that my son Lewis Christian,
Jr. has a bond in possession with my mark or signature to it, purporting
to be a title bond with a penalty of $1,500.00 in default of making him
a title to certain lands, I have no recollection of any such transaction,
and if he has any such bond, he obtained it in an unfair manner when I
was not in my right mind. In testimony where of I have hereunto set my
mark this 1st day of May, 1822.
Lewis x Christian, Sr. (his mark)
Acknowledged in presence of us: Geo. Maxwell, Reuben Skelton, Geor.
Curry A codicil of my Will &c, Supplement or Addition I, Lewis
Christian, Sr. of the County of Hawkins and State of Tenn., do this
15th day of December make and publish this Codicil to my last Will &
Testament in manner following, that is to say: I give to my grand daughter
Sally, the daughter of Cindy Christian one bed and furniture,
one puter dish, one tin pan, one dozen tea cups, three bowls, one pitcher,
two glass tumblers and six plates, one table cloth and one set of curtains;
also one cow and calf, one sow and pigs, one horse colt. And whereas, in
my last Will & Testament I have given to my daughter Cindy the
lower end of my place, beginning at a mulberry at the mouth of a hollow,
also, I do bequeath to her a part of the two last locations I make below
the same hollow. And lastly, my present codicil be annexed to and made
a part of my last Will and Testament, to all intents and purposes. In witness
whereof I hereunto set my hand and seal this 15th day of December, 1828.
Lewis x Christian, Sr. (seal) (his mark)
Signed, sealed and declared by the above named Lewis Christian, Sr.
as a codicil to be annexed to his last will and testament in the presence
of: William Feagins, James Lyons N.B. It is my desire that the above
mentioned property be equally divided between heirs of my daughter Sindy’s
body at her decease.
Lewis x Christian, Sr. (seal) (his mark)
William Feagins, James Lyons
A codicil or supplement to my will &c. &c: Whereas I in my former
will gave or bequeathed to my grand son Thomas Christian 52 acres
of land, I now in this my last will bequeath and give the aforesaid 52
acres of land to my son Thomas Christian, being the same land whereon
he then lived, to be his just right. In witness whereof I have hereunto
set my hand and seal this 26th day of March, 1830.
Lewis x Christian, Sr. (seal) (his mark)
Signed, sealed, published & declared by the above named Lewis Christian,
Sr. as a codicil to be annexed to his last will and testament. In the
presence of: William Feagins, James Feagins
November 20, 1830: To the gentlemen of the Court of Rogersville. It is the wish of Margaret Christian that James Bailey do administer to the estate of Lewis Christian, dec’d for I am not able to attend to it myself owing to sickness and old age. Also, it is the wish of William Christian son of the dec’d; also we both stand as security. Margaret x Christian William Christian, Witness James Christian (his mark)
Page 99
Dated: Sept. 29, 1824
I, Joseph Carden, being in his sound mind desires this to be his
last will and testament & it is my desire that my property may be distributed
as I may hereafter mention in this my will. First, that all my debts be
paid out of any money that is due me and the remainder to be put to interest
in the education of my children. I desire that all my landed estate be
given to my son Christopher Columbus Carden, Charlotte &
Frank. Also to C. Columbus Carden with a sufficient part
of the proceeds of said estate to give him the said C. C. Carden
a classical education and complete his studies. It is also my desire that
C. C. Carden study law profession. My wife Judith is now
pregnant and should she have a son, it is my desire that he may have the
same benefits of an education and share one half of the above property
given to my son C. C. Carden. I desire that my daughter L. Josephphene
have Maria a negro girl and her four children and their increase,
and the property arising from the firm of Carden & Rubel in
Rogersville and that she have the third of the negroes from Mrs. Kenner
my part as one of the legatees. It is also my desire that she be sent to
school until she has a competent English education. Should my wife have
a daughter, she (to) be educated as well as her sister L. Josephphene
and have one half of the before described property given to my daughter
L. Josephphene. My wife Judith (is) to have peaceable possession
of the plantation whereon I now live, also to have the negroes before named
during her life or marriage, provided she should marry a prudent man, and
the proffits of said Estate to be given to my s’d children before mentioned,
otherwise the said property to be distributed between my s’d children at
the age of twenty-one years. I desire that Miss Elizabeth Partepilo
to live with my wife or children while she is single and to have a decent
support from said estate. It is my desire that Cealy a negro girl
be set free at the age of 23. Whatever I shall get of my father’s estate
at the death of my mother I wish equally divided among my children. Should
all my children die without heirs, at the death of the last one all the
before (named) negroes and their increase be free and my landed property
and money if any should be on hand be put in a fund & to interest (?),
and the interest thereof to be laid out for the education of poor honest
children. It is also my desire that my wife have all the stock, household
and kitchen furniture of every kind that may be on s’d plantation whereon
I now live without sale at my death, to do as she pleases with. I also
desire that my friend, Judge S. Powel (or G. Powel) advise with
my wife and give instructions concerning the education of my children,
and dividing the property and keeping same together.
J. W. Carden
Attest: C. Hackney (second name torn off)
Page 100
Dated Sept. 11, 1826
In the Name of God, Amen. I John Cole of Hawkins County, Tennessee
being very sick and weak but thanks to God of sound disposing mind, and
knowing that we all must die, do make and ordain this my last will and
testament in manner following. It is my will and desire that all my just
debts be paid and all the balance of my property of every kind and description
both personal and real I give and bequeath unto my beloved wife Margaret.
And whereas I heretofore sold to Joseph Cole (my grandfather) a
tact of land lying in the State of Virginia, Washington County for $700.00
which he was to have paid down but I have only received $435,00, the balance
to bear interest from the 23rd November, 1825. I also sold a small tract
to my brother James Cole for $55.00, containing five acres which
when the above sums are paid, my wife Margaret (will) make deeds
for said lands sold. And I do appoint my beloved wife sole Executrix of
this my last will and do not require her to give security. In witness I
have hereto set my hand and seal This 11th day of September 1826.
John x Cole (seal) (his mark)
Witness: Richard Mitchell Thomas W. Bell
Page 101
Dated: February 8, 1828
I, Elizabeth Cooper being of sound mind, but weak in bodily strength,
do declare this to be my last Will in writing. This eighth day of February
in the year of our Lord One thousand eight hundred and twenty eight. I
do bequeath and give unto my son James Cooper by lot of land whereon
I now live, containing 70 or 80 acres, be the same more or less & my
two head of horses, and my son James is to pay all my just and honest
debts. And all of the balance of my property to be equally divided between
my children. And that my son James Cooper is to be my Executor of
my last Will & Testament in writing. Given under my hand and seal,
Feb’y 8, 1828.
Elizabeth x Cooper (seal)
Witness: Jas. Francisco Henry Larkin
Page 102
Dated: August 14, 1830
In the name of God, Amen. I, Samuel Currey of the County of Hawkins
and State of Tennessee, being in a low state of health, but of sound mind
& memory, do make this my last will and testament in writing. First,
recommending my soul to God who gave it and my body from whence it came.
Item 1. I gave unto my wife Jane Curry, after all my just debts
are paid, all my personal Estate, together with the proffits of the third
of my land during her natural life. Item 2. I will that the residue of
my land be rented and for the support of my children until the youngest
becomes 21 years of age, and then to be sold and the proceeds to be equally
divided amongst all my children. Thirdly. It is my will that my sons should
learn useful and profitable trades. Wherefore, I will that the(y) be bound
out to pious men to learn trades. It is my desire that James Lynn and
Frederick A. Ross should have any of my children bound to them should
they wish to do so. To put this my last Will & Testament in force &
executed, I nominate and appoint my worthy friends Frederick A. Ross
and James Lynn my Executors...In witness whereof I, the said Samuel
Currey have hereunto set my hand and seal This 14th day of August,
One Thousand eight hundred and thirty. Signed, sealed & published the
above date in presence of us who are subscribing witnesses thereto. Jac
Miller Samuel Currey (seal) Charles P. Miller Sarah Miller
In the Name of God, Amen. I hereunto make an alteration to my last Will and Testament so far as it respects my youngest child whom Anna Campbell desires to have, and daughter to whom I will that she remain during her single state subject to the said Anna Campbell. In testimony whereof I set my hand and seal this 16th day of August 1830. Sam’l Curry/Currey I also will my four sons, James C., William G., George and John remain with their grandfather Robert Campbell during his life or soundness of mind, then this section to be done in void. In testimony whereof I have set my hand and seal this day and date above written. Samuel Curry Signed, sealed and acknowledged in the presence of us: Anderson Campbell, James V. Campbell
Page 103
Dated: September 13, 1831
In the Name of God, Amen. I, Tabitha Cox of Hawkins County and State
of Tennessee, being in good health but knowing the uncertainty of death,
of sound mind and memory and knowing that all must die do make this my
last Will and Testament in the manner following to wit: I will my soul
to God who gave it, and my body to the earth from whence it came, to be
buried in a decent Christianlike manner. And as to worldly goods it has
pleased the Almighty to bless me with, I give and bequeath in the following
manner to wit; It is my will that all my just debts be paid out of my estate.
It is my will that my grandson James Roling Henderson, have my tract
of land of 100 acres on the west side of Robinson’s Creek; it is
my will that the balance of my lands be equally divided between my two
grandsons, Thomas G. A. Cox and Thomas H. Cox. It is my will
that my executors pay to the Trustees of the Methois Church twenty dollars
out of my estate. It is my will that my negro fellow Joe be emancipated
at my death. It is my will that my Executors pay to Edward Cox, James
Cox, john Cox, Alice Hale, formerly Alice Cox and Francis
Taylor, formerly Francis Cox one dollar each out of my estate.
It is my will that my daughter Elizabeth Cox have all my household
and kitchen furniture of every kind and all my stock of every kind. It
is my will that my grand daughter Elizabeth V. Cox have the balance
of my Estate consisting of cash and lands. I do hereby appoint my friends
James Grantham and James Bradley of Grainger and Hawkins
County, Tennessee my Executors to this will, revoking all others by me
made. And I, the said Tabitha Cox do hereby acknowledge this and
no other to be my last Will and Testament. In witness whereof I have hereunto
set my hand and seal. This 13th day of September, 1831.
Tabitha Cox (seal)
Test: Joseph Lackey Jas Carden
Page 104
Dated: December 7, 1831
In the Name of God, Amen, I, John Cooper of the County of Hawkins
and State of Tennessee, being weak in body, but of sound mind and memory,
considering the uncertainty of life and being of sound and perfect mind
&c. blessed be Almighty God for the same do make and publish this my
last Will and Testament in manner and form following, that is to say; First,
I give and bequeath unto my eldest daughter, Jane Cooper a negro
girl called Mary. I also give and bequeath unto my daughter Elizabeth
Cooper a negro girl named Agnus. I give and bequeath unto my daughter
Mary Cooper a negro girl named Mariah. I also give and bequeath
unto my son William Cooper a negro boy named Spencer. I also
give and bequeath unto my son James Cooper four negroes to be divided
after our deaths, equally between William, John, Robert, Wiley, Absalom
and Henry Cooper, by the boys above named getting Jane, Elizabeth
and Mary Cooper a horse, saddle and bridle a-piece. I also give
and bequeath to my seven sons, James, William, John, Robert,
Wiley, Absalom and Henry all my lands and tenements lying and
being in the County of Hawkins and State of Tennessee. For them to have
and to hold and dispose of agreeable to their will. At my death, my seven
sons above named is to go equal shares in paying a bank debt that is against
me. As for my stock and household and kitchen furniture (it) is to be divided
among all my children, with the exception of my eldest son James Cooper.
This is my last will by me made. In witness whereof I have hereunto set
my hand and seal. This Twenty seventh day of December in the Year of our
Lord, one thousand eight hundred and thirty one.
John x Cooper (seal) (his mark)
Signed, sealed, published and declared by the above named John Cooper
to be his last Will and Testament in the presence of us who have hereunto
subscribed our names (as) witnesses in the presence of the Testator.
George Morrison Robert Cooper
Hawkins County, State of Tennessee We, the under assigned legatees of John
Cooper dec’d, after seeing his last Will and Testament, believing that
it has been forgotten or neglected by him to make such provisions for our
mother as he intended, we the undersigned do agree that she shall have
as follows: The dwelling house and kitchen, including the orchard and garden,
then along the lane past the old barn, thence a straight course with the
fence until it strike the great road, that she is to have her lifetime
all the land east of said line until it strikes King Caid’s line.
Likewise, she is to have the disposal of her household and kitchen furniture
and stock of every kind. Likewise, a neglect naming the negro boy that
was left to James Cooper, in the will whose name is Ben.
We, and each of us, do bind ourselves in the sum of $500.00 to stand to
the above agreement. As witness our hands and seals, This 24th of August,
1832.
Signed, sealed and acknowledged in the presence of us: George Morrison,
Robert Cooper. James Cooper (seal) William Cooper (seal) John
Cooper (seal) Robert Cooper (seal) Wiley Cooper (seal)
Jane x Cooper (seal) (her mark) Elizabeth x Cooper (seal)
(her mark)
Note: The above will of John Cooper was proven August Session, 1832.
Page 106
Dated June 7, 1832
In the Name of God, Amen. I, John Chester of the County of Hawkins
and State of Tennessee, being weak in body but of sound mind and memory
and calling to mind that it is appointed for all men once to die, so make
and ordain this my last will and testament. In the first place, it is my
will that my beloved wife Mary have and enjoy all my estate both
real and personal as long as she continues to be my widow, to dispose of
as she may think best, and to sell off any part to pay my debts. Only it
is my desire that my old mare be kept by her as long as she should live.
If my wife Mary should marry, it is my will that she should have
my negro girl Sarah, one cow, my old mare and one bed and bedding,
some household and kitchen furniture, and at her death my negro girl named
Sarah and all the property to return to my children to be divided
as hereafter expressed. Item. It is my will that at the death or marriage
of my beloved wife, that all my real or personal Estate be equally divided
between my children after deducting from each one’s share the amount they
have severally rec’d from me, according to my account against each. Item.
It is my will that my negroes that may remain at the death of marriage
of my wife, after the payment of my debts, remain in the family and be
not sold, and if my children cannot agree among themselves as to the division
of them, let them be valued by three dis-interested men of their own or
my Executor’s choosing, and whoever of my children they may fall to, let
him or them pay to the other their part of the valuation. Item. It is my
will that my shop tools be valued with my negro man Dick, and let
them go to my children with him. Item. It is my will that the part of my
Estate that may fall to my daughter Elizabeth Roberts, at the marriage
or decease of her mother, should be kept by my Executors for the use and
benefit of my daughter and her children to be given to them as they may
need it, at the discretion of my Executors. Item. It is my will that my
daughter Catherine and my son Archibald be raised, clothed
and schooled out of my Estate without charge as long as they stay with
their mother, and at her death or marriage, go receive (an equal share)
of my estate as their other brothers and sisters. I do hereby constitute
and appoint my two sons Sam’l G. Chester and John K. Chester
Executors of this my last Will and Testament not requiring them to
give security for the Execution of the same. In witness whereof I have
hereunto set my hand & seal this 7th day of June, 1832.
John Chester (seal)
Signed, sealed & ack’d in presence of us: Sam’l Grer Benjamin Boyd
Test. Wm. Bradley
Page 107
Dated March 1, 1837
In the Name of God, Amen. I, Jacob Charlton of Hawkins County, State
of Tennessee, being weak in body but of sound mind & memory & convinced
of the uncertainty of life & the certainty of death, do make, ordain
& publish this my last Will and Testament in manner following, that
is to say. It is my desire and wish after my death that Polly Gilliam,
wife of John Gilliam shall have & receive whatever sum of money
shall at that time be due and owing to me as pension of the United States
for my services during the Revolutionary War, in consideration for her
services and attention to me at various times during my sickness, and in
order to carry into effect the bequest in this will, I appoint John
Gilliam Executor of this will, and he is not required to give security.
Jacob x Charlton (seal) (his mark).
Witness: W.O. Winston Anthony Smith
Page 108
Dated March 1, 1837
In the Name of God, Amen. I, Benoni Coldwell, of Hawkins County
& State of Tennessee, being weak in body but of sound and perfect mind
and memory, calling to mind the uncertainty of this present life, do make
this my last Will & Testament in the words following (To wit) Imprimis.
I give my precious immortal soul to God who gave it and as to my personal
Estate my will & desire is that it be divided in the following manner,
after all my just debts and funeral expenses are paid. Item. I give &
bequeath unto my beloved wife Elizabeth Coldwell all that part of
the plantation whereon I now reside, lying south of the Stanley Valley
Road, including the dwelling and out houses, during her life or widowhood,
also a negro man named Nelson, one other negro man named Henry,
also a negro girl named Milly, also head of horses, her choice out
of my stock, also stock of cattle & hogs, ten ewes and lambs, also
ten head of other sheep...Also my stock of geese and ducks for the purpose
of my wife and daughters making themselves beds. Also my youngest sons
to have benefit of beds if their sisters think proper to make for them.
Also a new wagon part made contracted to be made by David Kestren
for her to have finished and keep as her other property, the balance to
be paid for finishing the wagon out of my estate. Also, all my household
and kitchen furniture, farming utensils and all other property...also my
wife to have the present crop of wheat that is now growing in the field
on the north side of the Stanley Valley Road, adjoining George Walters’
land. Item. I give & bequeath unto my daughter Sally Greenway and
her heirs a negro girl Isabel. Item. I give and bequeath unto my
son Thomas K. Coldwell the tract of land whereon he now resides
containing 200 acres more or less, also $100.00 to be made out of my Estate.
Item. I give and bequeath unto my daughter Lettice Young what she
has already received of my estate as her part at the present. Item. I give
and bequeath unto my daughter Mary Galbraith what she has already
received of my estate as her part at the present. Item. I give and bequeath
unto my daughter Betsy Bryan what she has already received of my
estate as her part at the present. Item. I give and bequeath unto my son
Benoni F. Coldwell what he has already received of my estate as
his part at the present. Item. I give and bequeath unto my two sons John
& Nathaniel the two tracts of land, one called Stubblefield’s
Place, and the other called Baker’s Place, also the entries around
them, to be equally divided between them agreeable to quantity and quality.
John’s part to be laid off at the lower or west end, including where
he now lives. Item. I give and bequeath unto my two sons Percy C. &
Volney Coldwell all that part of the tract of land whereon I now reside,
lying north of the Stanley Valley Road until the death of their mother,
then the whole tract to be equally divided between them. Also, I leave
a 50 acre entry in the Caney Valley Knobs to support the tract I live on
with timber. Item. I give and bequeath unto my four daughters Delphi
Ann, Rachael, Eliza & Julia Ann Coldwell, each, five hundred
dollars, to be paid out of my estate in addition to the beds they have
or may hereafter make. My will and desire is that after the death of my
wife all the property she may (have) be sold and proceeds equally divided
among all my children enumerated above. My will and desire is that the
following property be sold to carry my last will & testament into effect,
to wit; Two tracts of land lying in Big Poor Valley, one containing 50
acres and the other 100 acres; one negro man Edward, one named Leroy,
one negro boy named Jesse, one negro girl named Lucy, also
my old wagon, the balance of my stock of hogs and sheep, two stills, still
tubs & other vessels, one set of blacksmith tools and coopers tools.
I do hereby constitute, ordain and appoint my brother Thomas Coldwell
& my wife Elizabeth Coldwell my sole Executor and Executrix
to carry this my last Will & Testament into effect & that they
be not required to give security for the faithful execution of the same.
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my had and seal this twenty first
day of March in the year of our Lord, 1837.
B. Coldwell (seal)
Test. Philip S. Hale John Shough Rob’t Johnson
Page 110
No Date (1837-39)
I, George Crobarger, of the County of Hawkins and State of Tennessee,
being of sound mind and memory, Blessed be God, do make and ordain this
my last Will and Testament as follows, that is to say: My wish and desire
is that my daughter Betty Crobarger, now Betty Seaver shall
have one dollar of my estate and no more. My wish and desire is that my
loving wife Mary Crobarger shall afer my just debts are paid, have
the whole of my personal Estate at her disposal during her life and to
dispose...in any manner she may choose. If my Executors that it best to
make a sale and dispose of any part of the stock and other articles which
may be to spare, I leave it with them to do as they think best. I do also
constitute and appoint my wife Mary and John Critz my lawful
Executors of this my last Will &c.
George x Crobarger (seal) (his mark)
Signed, sealed and acknowledged before us: John Gibbons John Boyd Robert
McMinn
Page 110
No Date Proven Aug 1836
Simeon Collins being of sound and perfect mind & memory did
make and publish this his last Will & Testament in manner and form
following. He desires and requests that his wife Frankey should
have and keep all his property, both real and personal for the purpose
of keeping her children together and to raise them on what he left as his
wife Frankey had labored with him for all they possessed which said
Will and Testament was made while on his death bed and no opportunity of
committing his last will to writing as he was soon after taken dangerously
ill and died somewhat unexpected and appeared not to have had his mind
engaged on the subject no more, which last Will and Testament was declared
in presence of the undersigned subscribing witnesses. N.B. He the said
Simeon further requested that all his just debts be paid and satisfied
& the balance retained for the purpose above stated.
Sardy x Collins{note: researchers beleive this
to be Vardy Collins}, Morgan x Collins, Charlotty x Collins, Millenton
Collins, Allen Collins (his mark)
Page 111
Dated: January 5, 1839 Proven: 7th April, 1845 Term
In the Name of God, Amen, I John Cockreham of the County of Hawkins
and State of Tennessee being in a bad state of health, but of sound mind
& memory, blessed be God, calling to mind the mortality of this life
& knowing that it is appointed for all men once to die, do make and
publish this my last Will and Testament in manner following, viz: First.
I give & bequeath to my beloved wife Sally the use of all my
land & negro slaves during her life or widowhood...also to my wife
Sally as much of my stock of horses, cattle, sheep, and hogs as
she shall choose to set apart for herself and I also give to my wife...all
my household furniture and kitchen and farming utensils, all my corn, bacon,
wheat and other provisions on hand, also one wagon and two yolk of oxen.
Secondly. I give & bequeath after the death or marriage of my wife....to
my sons, Thomas G. Cockreham, John H. Cockreham, Daniel H. Cockreham,
William H. & Abner W. Cockreham, and to my daughters Maria McCollough,
Elizabeth Tharp, Louisa McBride, Emily H. Cockreham & Amanda Cockreham
all my estate both real and personal to be equally divided among them,
share and share alike, after deducting the following sums from the respective
shares for property that I have heretofore advanced to some of my said
sons & daughters to wit: I have heretofore advanced to my son Thomas
G. Cochreham property to the value of Five hundred and twenty seven
dollars. I have heretofore advanced to my son John H. Cockreham property
valued at four hundred and fifty seven dollars. I have heretofore advanced
to my said son Daniel H. Cockreham property valued at Four Hundred
and Fifty seven dollars. I have heretofore advanced to my said son Abner
W. Cockreham property valued at One Hundred Fifteen dollars. I have
heretofore advanced to my daughter Maria McCollough property valued
at Two Hundred, Forty eight dollars. I have heretofore advanced to my daughter
Elizabeth Tharp property valued at One Hundred and Eighty two dollars.
I have heretofore advanced to my said daughter Louisa McBride One
Hundred Eighty Two dollars, all advances to be taken into consideration
in their respective shares of my Estate, so that all (finally) receive
an equal share of my Estate to them and their heirs forever. It is my desire
that whenever my Executors shall have a considerable sum of money in their
hands arising out of my estate either from the sale of property or from
collecting debts due to me, that they shall divide the same among all my
said sons and daughters equally taking into consideration the advances
aforesaid. Fourthly. I do hereby nominate and appoint my two sons Thomas
G. Cockreham and John H. Cockreham Executors of this my last
Will and Testament. In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand &
fixed my seal This fifth day of January in the year of our Lord, 1839.
John x Cockreham (seal) (his mark)
Signed, sealed published & declared by John Cockreham the Testator
as his last Will & Testament in the presence of us who have hereunto
subscribed our names as witnesses in the presence of each other. John
Williams, Ephraim Parvin
Page 113
Dated: March 22, 1839
In the Name of God, Amen. I, Sarah Charles of the County of Hawkins
and State of Tennessee, being in low state of health but of sound mind,
do make this my last will and testament in manner following, to wit: I
will and bequeath to Mary Charles my daughter one bay mare, one
cow and calf, one bed and clothes, one cupport and one big cattle. I will
and bequeath to my son James Charles one rifle gun, one man’s saddle
and all the crop after ittis made after all my just debts is paid out of
it. Darcus Jane my daughter I will and bequeath one red heifer,
one coverled and notted counterpin. I will and bequeath to Malinda
one bed and clothes, one chest, one pot or oven and lid &c, and one
fall leaf table. To Lucinda one bed and clothes, one old chest.
I will and bequeath to Jasper my son one gray colt and one heifer.
I will and bequeath Eldridge Charles one dollar. I will and bequeath
unto Manecy one bed and clothes. The goose is to go to the use of
the family that is now living with me. I will and bequeath to James
Charles one cow I got (from) Wiley Hord. Publishing this to
be my last Will and Testament. In witness whereof I have hereunto set my
hand seal this twenty second day of March in the year of our Lord one thousand
eight hundred and thirty nine.
Sarah x Charles (seal) (her mark)
Witness: Wade H. Smith
Page 114
Dated: November 5, 1844 Proven: December Term, 1844
I, Henry Church, do make and publish this my last Will and Testament
hereby revoking and making void all other wills by me at any time made.
First. I direct that my funeral expenses and all my debts be paid as soon
after my death as possible out of any moneys that I may die possessed of
or may first come into the hands of my Executor. Secondly. I do give and
bequeath to my beloved wife Allice Church all the residue of my
property consisting of all my household and kitchen furniture with all
the stock to wit: Horses, cattle, hogs, sheep, geese and poltry of all
kinds. Also all my farming tools & mechanicle tools, also one still
cup and worm and a quantity of tubs and all the grain that is upon the
farm during her life or widowhood. Thirdly. That I do will and bequeath
unto my two daughters Matilda and Sarah out of the above
named property one good bed and furniture, one cow and calf and equally
otherwise as much as the other daughters that is married off. Fourthly.
I do will and bequeath unto my four three sons, George, Enoch and
Henry when they become 21, for them to have a horse, bridle and
saddle. Fifthly. I desire after the death of my wife Allice Church that
the remainder of the above named Estate to be sold and equally divided
between all my daughters. Lastly. I do hereby nominate and appoint William
Church & Beverly C. Ford my Executors. In witness whereof I do
to this my last will set my hand and seal this, the fifth day of November,
1844.
Henry x Church (seal) (his mark)
Signed, sealed & published in our presence and we have subscribed our
names hereto in the presence of the Testator Nov. The 5th, 1844. B.
C. Ford, David x Hickman, Henry Reed
Page 113
Dated: March 4, 1845 Proven: Sept. 1, 1845
I, John Christian have on this the 4th day of March in the year
of our Lord, 1845 in my proper mind, made & published this my last
Will & Testament hereby revoking all former wills by me at any time
heretofore made. First. I desire that my body be intered decently according
to the custom of the country, that my burial & funeral expenses together
with all my just debts be paid out of any money that I may die sezed of
or the first that may come into the hands of my Executor from any of my
real or personal Estate. Secondly. I give & bequeath to my beloved
wife Nancy my entire landed Estate not hereinafter bequeathed, during
her natural life provided she never marries, together with all my household
and kitchen furniture, one horse, three cows and twelve sheep & twelve
hogs. Thirdly. I give to my son William L. Christian five dollars,
having previously provided for him. Fourth, Fifth, Sixth, Seventh and Eighth.
I give to Margaret Arnald, Ruthy Felken/Felkner, Lewis Christian’s
widow and lawful heirs, Thomas Christian, Nancy Long (all) $5.00
each having previously provided for (each of them). Ninth. I give to John
Christian one-half of a certain Island known by the name of Felkner’s
Island and $5.00. Tenth. After paying all my debts & the above cash
bequests at the above named death or marriage of my wife Nancy I
give and bequeath to my four youngest sons, Allen, Seth, Jas & George
Christian, all my landed Estate together with any stock, farming utensils
&c, leaving my wife Nancy to dispose of the personal property
left her to who she pleases at her death. Eleventh. I do hereby nominate
& appoint my two beloved sons William L. and Thomas J.
my Executors to this my last Will & Testament. In testimony whereof
I have this day set my hand & affixed my seal the day & date above
written.
John x Christian (seal) (his mark)
Signed, sealed & delivered in presence of the Testator & each other,
the day & date above written: Test: P. x Henderson (his mark)
David x Lyons, Jr. (his mark) Adam Patterson
I John Christian have this day in my proper mind made
and published this codicil and attached it to my last Will & Testament
and declared it a portion of the same...my son Allen in the division
of my real estate shall have his interest at the upper or east end of the
plantation so as to include my present dwelling and out houses. This shall
not be so construed as to revoke or make void any portion of my will to
which it is attached. In testimony whereof I have set my hand and affixed
my seal this 28th of May, 1845, in presence of:
John x Christian (seal)
P. x Henderson Emanuel x Rutledge
Pro Sept. 1, 1845 Jan. 5, 1846
WILL OF JOHN CROZIER
Page 116
Dated: July 25, 1845
I, John Crozier make and publish this my last Will and Testament
hereby revoking and making void all other wills by me at any time made,
being of sound mind and memory. First. I direct that my funeral expenses
and my debts be paid as soon as possible after my death out of money that
I may have or that may first come into the hands of my Administrator. Secondly.
I give and bequeath to my beloved wife Elizabeth all my land and
personal property consisting of the following, to wit: All my household
and kitchen furniture and all my stock of every description consisting
of horses, cattle, hogs, sheep and many other articles too tedious to mention,
as long as she lives, at her heath all land and personal property remaining
after paying all her expenses and the land be equally divided between my
four daughters (viz) Susannah, Agnes, Casander and Nancy Isabella,
and if any of them be dead...heirs to have their mother’s part and also
all the personal property whatever there may be of every description shall
be equally divided between the above named daughters or their children
as aforesaid. Thirdly. The heirs to choose some three disinterested persons
that is suitable to make said division if they can agree about it, and
if there be any orphans, their guardian to superintend on their part, otherwise
the County Court to appoint someone to act for them, but if they cannot
agree about persons to make said division, then and in that case the Administrator
if any may be shall proceed and ask the County Court to appoint men as
aforesaid to make said division, and in case there should be a disagreement
among the heirs about that, the Administrator shall forthwith proceed to
give lawful notice by advertisment and sell all the property both real
and personal to the highest bidder on a twelve months credit. And if there
be no Administrator then and in that case any one of the heirs shall or
may complain to the County Court which shall appoint an Administrator and
take bond and security according to law and sell the same as above mentioned,
and shall divide out equally among the several heirs accordingly but should
they make a division of the property the husbands of the daughters shall
have power to sell the lands and make titles for the same, but should the
wife be made the guardian of the orphans, shall have power to sell the
property or rent it out as may be deemed best and shall be governed according
to law as guardians in other cases. In witness whereof I do to this my
will set my hand and seal 25th of July, 1845.
John Crozier (seal)
Signed, sealed and published in our presence and we have subscribed our
names hereto in the presence of the Testator This 25th day of July, 1845.
Test: Nicholas x Beckner, William x Grigsby, Joseph Jenkins
Page 117
Dated August 3, 1847 Proven in open Court Sept. 6, 1847
A written Will and Testament. I, Casander Crosier, do make and publish
this my last Will and Testament hereby revoking and making void all other
wills by me at any time made. First. I direct that my funeral expenses
and all my debts be paid as soon after my death as possible out of any
money that I may die possessed of or may first come into the hands of my
Executor. Second. It is my will that my mother Elizabeth Crozier shall
have all my personal property and real Estate during her natural life,
and at the death of my mother, it is my will that my sister Nancy Isabella
Crosier shall have the remainder of my real and personal property.
Lastly. I do hereby nominate and appoint William Grigsby sen. My
Executor. In witness whereof I do to this my will set my hand and seal
This August 3rd, 1847.
Casander x Crosier (seal) (her mark)
Signed, sealed and published in our presence and will (?) Names hereto
in presence of the Testator this date above written.
Witnesses: William Moore, Thos. M. Arnott
Page 118
Dated: May 28, 1848
In the Name of God, Amen. I, Daniel Carmichael, being of sound and
disposing mind, though feeble in body do make and ordain this my last Will
and Testament, revoking all others that I may heretofore have made. First.
To my beloved wife, I will and bequeath my landed Estate, with the exception
of one small tract containing about 30 acres of cleared land and 10 acres
of timbered land adjoining John A. McKinney’s, being a part of the
tract on which Mrs. Kenner lived, on the right hand side of the
Dodson Ford Road, which said tract of 40 acres I give to my trusty old
servant Dick during his natural life on condition he keep an orderly
house at all times. Sec’d. To my beloved wife, I will all my slaves during
her widowhood with the exception of Dick whom I wish liberated at
my death, and with the exception also of a boy named Joe whom I
have given to my nephew James Ayres and also a boy named Hilyon
12 or 13 years old whom I wish to be sold to assist in paying my debts.
Third. At my wife’s death, or whenever she marries again, it is my will
that all my slaves that I have willed to her be emancipated immediately.
Fourth. At my wife’s death, it is my will that Hamilton Carmichael,
son of Fanny Moore, whom I believe to be my son, although not born
in lawful (?)should have all my real estate, but provided Hamilton Carmichael
dies before my wife, then it is my will that my landed estate be divided
into two equal parts - one half of which is to be at the disposal of my
wife, the other half to be equally divided between my two nephews, James
Ayers and Pleasant Carmichael, son of James Carmichael.
It is expressly my will that my two nephews should not have possession
of the said land until after my wife’s death. I have agreed with my wife,
and I hereby bind myself to fulfill said agreement that if she should die
before I do, and if I should re-marry, the three slaves that I have willed
to my wife are to be liberated. All my money and drafts in the hands of
John Blevins amounting to over $4,000.00 are to be appropriated
to payment of my just debts, and if there should be a deficit, then enough
of my personal property be sold to pay all my debts. All my personal property,
after paying my debts, I will to my wife without reserve. In witness whereof
I have hereunto set my hand and seal This 28th day of May, 1848.
Daniel Carmichael
(witnesses) Sarah A. Savage Matilda L. Shields George Savage Wm.
W. Shields
It is my will that Absalom Kyle sen’r and James K. Neal be appointed by the Court Executors without requiring them to give security.
Page 119
Dated June 15, 1848 Proven April term 1848
In the Name of God, Amen I Yelberton Carpenter of the County of
Hawkins and State of Tennessee, do make and publish this as my last Will
and Testament. First. I direct that my funeral expenses and all my debts
be paid as soon after my death as possible out of any money that I may
die possessed of or may first come into the hands of my Exec. Secondly.
I give to my beloved wife Hannah Carpenter the use of my tract of
land in the County of Claiborne, State of Tennessee for her comfortable
support and maintenance, and it is my will that my grand daughter Nancy
Orlena Carpenter, daughter of Anderson Carpenter remain with
my wife Hannah and have life support from said land during my wife’s life,
and I further give to my wife Hannah all my household and kitchen
furniture one choice cow, one brood sow, three choice stock hogs, thirteen
pigs, four sheep, one choice heifer, &c. It is further my will that
at any time my wife may think best she is to give to my grand daughter
Nancy Orlena one bed, one cow, some kitchen utensils, a small start
in hogs and sheep. Thirdly. It is my will that after the death of my wife,
that the above named tract of land in Claiborne County be divided between
my sons Jackson and Wilson in the following manner, to wit:
Beginning at the mouth of the spring branch. Thence with the meandering
of said branch to a cross fence at the upper end of the rocky field. Thence
a straight line to a gum corner to said land and corner to Michael Person’s
land. Jackson to have north side of dividing line, with improvements, to
descend after his death, to the lawful children that he now has or may
hereafter have to be divided equal between them. And the said Wilson
Carpenter to have the south side of said dividing line, with improvements
thereon during his natural life, and after his death to descend to his
lawful children that he now has or may hereafter have, to be divided equal
between them. Fourthly. I give and bequeath to my son Allen Carpenter
the tract of land whereon I now live, together with a tract of land on
Clowd’s Creek in Hawkins County, purchased by me with William Altom.
Fifthly. I give and bequeath unto my son Jesse Carpenter fifty dollars
in trade, it being one-half of a debt due me from my son Anderson Carpenter.
Sixthly. I give and bequeath to my son Anderson Carpenter fifty
dollars due from him to me after paying the above bequest of fifty dollars
to Jesse Carpenter. Seventhly. I give and bequeath unto my sons
William, John, James and my daughter Mary Spradler all my
stock consisting of horses, cattle, hogs, and sheep not disposed of in
the foregoing bequests, to be equally divided between them. It is my request
they divide the stock themselves, and Lastly. I do constitute and appoint
my friend James Conner and my son John Carpenter of the County
of Hawkins...my Executors of this my last Will & Testament. In witness
whereof I have hereunto set my hand, affixed my seal this 15th day of June
in the Year of our Lord, A.D. 1845.
Yelberton x Carpenter (seal) (his mark)
Signed, sealed & delivered in presence of James L. Etter, Edmund
Lovin
Page 121
Dated: August 9, 1849 Proven: March Term 1862 (J. H. Vance, Clk)
In the name of God, Amen. I, Thomas Cocke of Hawkins County in the
State of Tennessee, being in the full possession of my ordinary powers
of mind, but contemplating the uncertainty of life and being desirous of
making such disposition of my worldly property and effects as after mature
deliberation my own judgement and sense of duty appeares and as I anxiously
desire for sufficient reasons to be carried into effect after my death
do make ordain and publish this my last Will & Testament in manner
and form following that is to say: First. I desire that all my just debts
if any should remain unpaid at my death, shall be paid out of my estate
and I direct that any money which may be on hand and debts which may be
due to me at my death and my personal estate as far as necessary shall
be first applied to this purpose. Second. For considerations satisfactory
to my own mind, I give and bequeath unto my wife Lucinda absolutely
for her own separate use and benefit 200 acres of land situate in County
of Hawkins including the house wherein I now reside to be laid off as she
may direct to have and to hold the same and every part and portion thereof
in absolute fee simple, together with all my household and kitchen furniture,
waggon, yoke of oxen and farming utensils of every description, the one
fifth part of my live stock of every kind and description and also my two
negro women slaves, Nancy and Catherine. Third. All the residue
of my estate property and effects of every kind and description real, personal
or mixed in possession or in action wheresoever situate, including the
tract of land whereon I now reside situate in said County of Hawkins, Joining
the lands of John B. Proffitt, William Mays and the heirs of Thomas
Stubblefield, dec’d and known by the name of Mulberry Grove estimated
to contain 1200 acres more or less, I give, bequeath and devise unto William
S. Creed, Mary A. Read, wife of Thomas R. Read, formerly Mary
A. Creed, and Maryaner Moore wife of George W. Moore, formerly
Maryaer Creed, to them and their heirs jointly and equally in fee
simple subject to charges that my just debts which remain unpaid at my
death be payed at my death. Fourth. I direct that as soon after my death
as practicable my Executors hereinafter named shall sell and dispose of
all my personal effects and property, the proceeds thereof after paying
my just debts and funeral expenses shall be paid equally to the said William
S. Creed, Mary A. Read and Maryaner Moore. I do hereby nominate
constitute and appoint William S. Creed, Thomas R. Read and George
W. Moore Executors of this my last Will and Testament, hereby revoking
and making void all former or other wills by me heretofore made and declaring
this to be my last Will and Testament, and I deem it proper here solemenly
to declare to my relations and friends and to all other persons that the
foregoing disposition of my property is made upon reflection and deliberation
and is such as satisfies my own feelings and sense of justice. Let no one
question or attempt to disturb it after my death. In testimony whereof
I have hereunto affixed my hand and seal This ninth day of August in the
year of our Lord A.D. One thousand eight hundred and forty-nine.
Thomas Cocke (seal)
Signed sealed and acknowledged by the said Thomas Cocke in our presence
to be his last Will and Testament who have witnessed the same at his request
in the presence of each other and in his presence the date above written.
Test: Elisha Dodson, Hugh Cain, Jr.
Page 123
Dated: March 29, 1842 Proven: May 2, 1842
In the Name of God, Amen. I Etheldridge W. Charles of Hawkins County
& State of Tennessee, being in low state of health but of sound mind
do make this my last Will & Testament in the manner following, to wit:
I will & bequeath to my wife Susannah Charles one bay mare and
side saddle and bridle, one red spotted cow, one white sow and five shoats,
two beds and clothing, one cubboard and furniture, and Beauro and clock
and four chairs and one common dining table, one large pot, one small pot
and one bake oven, one small oven, one skillet, one loom and one pair of
horse gears and plow & the balance of my property to be sold to pay
my just debts, and if anything over, it is to go to my three children,
William A., Susannah E. and Carsha J. Charles, & I will
and bequeath to my brother Hughy J. Charles my saddle & I will
that my s’d wife have the sole benefit of the plantation and buildings
where I now live until the youngest child, Barshaba J. Charles,
comes of age and then to be sold and equally divided amongst my three named
children. In witness witness _hereof, publishing this to be my last Will
and Testament, I have hereunto set my hand and seal This the 29th (twenty-ninth)
day of March, One Thousand eight hundred and forty-two.
E. W. x Charles (seal) (his mark)
Witness: Martin Phillips
Page 124
Dated: November 15, 1852 Proven: March Term, 1853
Know all men by these presents that I, Thomas Coldwell, being of
sound mind and body, but calling to mind the uncertainty of human life,
and desiring to settle my worldly affairs, do ordain and publish this my
last Will and Testament, revoking and annulling all others. First. I direct
that all my just debts and funeral expenses shall be paid. Secondly. I
will and bequeath to my beloved wife Sally...during her natural
life or widowhood one third of the plantation on which I live, including
the dwelling house and out houses thereto attached. Also, all my household
and kitchen furniture, farming utensils, including wagon or wagons, blacksmith
tools and one half of the stock on my farm at my death; also all my slaves.
Thirdly. To my son James, I bequeath all my lands including--after
her death--the part willed to my wife, also after the death of my wife,
I bequeath unto my son James all the personal property, including
wagon or wagons on my farm and blacksmith tools, except the slaves which
has been devised to her and also one half the stock of all kinds, and grain
on hands on the farm at my death. Fourthly. To my son Benoni I will
and bequeath in lieu of his, Benoni’s interest in my land and personal
property, that James pay him--Benoni the amount proposed
in the agreement made and entered into between them, James and Benoni,
heretofore. In addition to which, after the death of my wife, I direct
that my slave Pompey be left to Benoni. Fifthly. To the children
of my son Andrew F. Coldwell, dec’d., and after the death of my
wife, I will that my slave Ellen be sold and the proceeds of her
sale be equally divided to said children of Andrew F. Coldwell.
Sixthly. To my son Abiram Coldwell, I bequeath after the death of
my wife, my slaves Frank and Susan. Seventhly. To my daughter,
Indiana Chenwith, during her life and after the death of my wife,
I will my slave Mary, and after the death of Indiana, said
Mary and her increase be equally divided among the children of Indiana.
Eightly. After the death of my wife, it is my will that my son James
shall have my slave Bob and that he shall maintain Old Cynth.
Ninthly. It is my will that if my slaves should increase hereafter during
my life or the life of my wife, that the two oldest of the increase living
at the death of my wife shall belong to my son James, and the balance
of such increase, if any such, shall be equally divided between (the children
of) my son Andrew F. Coldwell, dec’d, for one part, and my son Abiram
and my daughter Indiana, but to go to my daughter Indiana
and her children in the same manner as the slave Mary is willed.
Tenthly. It is my will that all my property not otherwise devised shall
belong to my wife during her natural life or widowhood and to pay my son
James after her death, and my wife and son James are charged
with the payment of all my just debts, and are hereby appointed Executor
and Executrix of this my last Will and Testament. In testimony whereof
I have hereunto set my hand and affixed my seal. This 15th day of November,
1852.
Thomas Coldwell (seal)
Signed, sealed and acknowledged in presence of us: H. Watterson, Jesse
M. Lyons, John Young
Page 125
Dated: December 4, 1852 Proven: July Term, 1852
I, Daniel Chambers, do make and publish this as my last Will and
Testament, hereby revoking and making void all other wills by me at any
time made. First. I direct that my funeral expenses and all my debts be
paid as soon after my death as possible out of any moneys that I may die
possessed of or may first come into the hands of my Executor. Secondly.
I give and bequeath unto my beloved wife Sarah all the land which
I now own on north side of Holston River whereon I now live, together with
part of my plantation on south side of said river. Say, from the barn up
the river. I also give and bequeath to her my wife Sarah Chambers
my negro man named Charles and also his wife Fan. I also
give and bequeath to my wife two horse beasts and three cows, her choice;
my yoke of oxen and waggon, one large plow, one shovel plow, two pair of
gears and so much of my household and kitchen furniture sufficient for
her use, also my hogs, sheep and stock. All of which named property I leave
to her during her natural life, or so lang as she remains my widow, then
the above named negro woman Fan is to have the liberty of choosing
with whom of my children or grandchildren she will live. But the above
named Charles to be valued and have choice to live with either of
my children who will pay valuation--which valuation to be divided equally
into three parts; one part going to children of each of my three daughters,
namely, Amanda Francisco’s, Lois Millers’s and Rachael
Miller’s. I do further give and bequeath to my wife Sarah two
feather beds and furniture, as much as she thinks proper, also her Bible
and Saddle, which last named articles I leave at her own disposal. Thirdly.
I do give to my son William S. Chambers all the land I own on the
south side of Holston River, containing 310 acres, also all the land which
I own on the north side of said river from the spring branch down to Stephen
Hagood’s live, to have possession of at my wife’s death or intermarriage.
But he, William S. Chambers, is at all times to have the use of
timber on said lands. I further bequeath to William S. Chambers
my negro man, Isaac. Fourthly. I give and bequeath to my daughter
Amanda Francisco’s children...Mary Simmons, $200.00, and
to Amanda’s other children, namely Thomas, Daniel and Sarah
Francisco, I give and bequeath the land whereon I now live, from the
spring branch up the river adjoining the lands of T. Coldwell and
James Hagood. The land to be at my wife’s death (sold?) And the
proceeds divided equally between the three last named children of my daughter
Amanda Francisco. Fifthly. I give and bequeath to my daughter Lois
Miller’s three children, namely Daniel C. Miller, Rachael D. Miller
and John P. Miller my two negro boys, Lewis and Charles.
I further give and bequeath to my grandson John P. Miller, one horse
and saddle worth $100.00. Sixthly. I give and bequeath to my daughter Rachael
Miller my negro woman named Susan and her two little daughters,
namely Sarah and Julia, during her natural life and then
to said Rachael Miller’s children. Seventhly. The residue of my
personal property undisposed of in the foregoing bequests, I direct to
be sold and the proceeds of said sale to be equally divided between my
three daughters, namely Amanda Francisco’s, Lois Miller’s
and Rachael Miller’s children. Lastly. I do hereby nominate and
appoint my son, William S. Chambers my Executor. In witness whereof
I do to this my last Will and Testament set my hand and seal. This fourth
day of December, 1852.
Daniel Chambers (seal)
Signed, sealed and published in our presence and we have subscribed our
names hereto in presence of the Testator. H. Watterson C. C. Miller
Page 127
Dated: Feb’y 21, 1853 Proven: Sept. Term, 1853
The last Will and Testament of Lewis Click of Hawkins County, Tenn.
I, Lewis Click, considering the uncertainty of this mortal life
and being of sound mind and memory do make and publish this my last Will
and Testament in manner and form following: First. I direct that my funeral
expenses and all my debts be paid as soon aster my death as possible out
of any money that I may die possessed of or may first come into the hands
of my Executor. Second. I give and bequeath unto my beloved wife Rosannah
all the household and kitchen furniture or as much as she may need. I further
give and bequeath to my wife Rosannah the farm and mansion house
where I now reside, to have and to hold with all its appurtenances, for
the term of ten years, and at the expiration of the said ten years, I hereby
give and bequeath to my wife Rosannah the fifth part of the above
named farm, together with all its buildings. I give and bequeath to my
son William the fifth part of the above named farm. I further give
and bequeath to my son Robert the fifth part of the above named
farm. Also, I give and devise to my youngest son George one yoke
of black steers and one Rifle gun. Also at the death or marriage of my
wife, Rosannah, I give and bequeath to my youngest daughter Rosah
the fifth part of the aforementioned farm, or the part I laid off for
my wife. I will and desire that all stock, grain, farming utensils and
slaves not excepted shall be sold subject to my debts after my death, or
at such time as my Executor may deem proper. I further give and devise
to my son Arthur one sorrel mare that he took from me last fall
for his full share, debaring him from getting holt of whatever may come
into the hands of my representatives from my Estate. I further give and
devise to my son John $500.00 that I paid to Rogan and Edwards
for him, that being his full share of my estate. Also, I want John
to attend to my suits and my Executor will pay him for his services. I
further give and devise to my son James $500.00, the full amount
of his share of my Estate, being a part of $1,000.00 I paid for him at
the Rogersville Bank. I want my Executor to collect the remaining part
as soon after my death as he can and pay it to my creditors. I give and
bequeath to my daughter Mary $300.00, is the sale of the land I
sold to her husband. I further give and devise to my daughter Eliza
$200.00 which shall be paid to her at the expiration of ten years by William,
Robert, Peter and George, each one to pay her $50.00. I hereby
appoint my beloved wife Rosannah the sole Executrix of this my last
Will and Testament, hereby revoking all former wills by me made. In witness
whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal. This 21st day of February,
1853.
Lewis x Click (seal) (his mark)
Signed, sealed and published in our presence and we have subscribed our
names hereunto in the presence of he Testator. This 21st day of Feb., 1853
James W. Davidson James W. Clarke
Page 129
Dated: March 9, 1855 Proven: May Term, 1855
In the Name of God, Amen. I, Hamilton J. Carter, being weak in body,
but of sound mind and memory do publish this my last Will and Testament,
revoking all other wills by me at any time made. First. I require my Executor
to pay my funeral expenses with all my just debts out of any moneys that
I may die possessed of or may first come into his hands. Second. I will
and bequeath unto my wife, Highley Carter, all my household and
kitchen furniture. Third. I also will and bequeath unto her my plantation
so long as she sees proper to live upon it, but if she chooses to leave
it, then it is to belong to my two brothers, Charles and Allen
Carter. Fourth. I give unto my daughter Lucinda Carter one
spotted heifer, and no more of my Estate. Fifth. I nominate and appoint
George Kenney my Executor and allow him to administer without security.
Given under my hand and seal this the ninth day of March, 1855.
Hameltn Cater (seal)
Witnesses: Bird Smith, John x Hord (his mark) Witnesses depose that
they saw Testator sign the will and believed him to be of sound mind and
memory. Hila Carter, widow, appears in open court & dissents
to the will.
Page 130
Dated: March 6, 1857 Proven: April Term, 1857 [Recorded p. 44]
I, James Cox of the County of Hawkins and State of Tennessee, being
of sound mind and memory and feeling certain that my natural life is drawing
to a close, do therefore make publish and declare this to be my last Will
& Testament, that is to say: First. That my body be buried in a decent
and respectable manner, and that my burial expenses be paid out of my Estate.
Second. I will that my lawful debts be discharged out of any money that
may come into the hands of my Executor, which I will hereafter name in
the Will, and the residue of my Estate, both real and personal, I will
bequeath and dispose of as follows: Third. I will and bequeath to my two
nephews John James Cox and George Van Cox, sons of John
T. Cox, the tract of land on which I now live containing 50 acres more
or less, to be divided equally between them when they arrive at a lawful
age, and that John T. Cox or some other suitable person have full
control of my land until they come of age, and that my mother have her
home and support off the said land during her natural life. Fourth. I give,
will and bequeath to my brother John T. Cox, the following notes
and interest thereon: One note on John R. Charles for $122.31, dated
January 5, 1857; one note on E. D. Faris for $11.66, dated 12th
Jan., 1857; one note on Jesse M. Lyons for 25, dated 29th August,
1856; one note on Nelson Campbell for $181.09, dated Aug. 6, 1856;
one note on Jas. Miller for $33.42, dated April 9, 1856; one note
on T. T. Barrett for $241. 62, dated Jan. 25, 185_; one note on
C. C. Miller dated March 18, 1850 for $15.00, due 15 October, 1856;
one note on John T. White and James White for $42.63, dated
March 5, 1857; one note on Jim Lyons for $25.00, dated Jan. 28,
1853; one note on Dan Green for $65.28, with a credit of $35.00,
June 27, 1855. One Receipt on Elias Beal for $200.00, dated October
23, 1856, and that the said John T. Cox pay out of said notes the
sum of $17.00 to George Cox. Fifth. I give and bequeath to Sarah
S. Cox, wife of John T. Cox, one note on Wm. White &
Bro. for $98.31. Sixth. I give, will and bequeath to John T. Cox
& Sarah S. Cox his wife all my household and other articles
too tedious to mention. Seventh. I will that my Executor pay to George
Cox the sum of $22.50 out of the money I now have on hand. Eighth.
I appoint, make and put on John T. Cox for my Executor to this my
last Will and Testament. Ninth. I will and desire that my said Executor
pay to Thomas T. Cox my brother and Polly Bray my sister
the sum of one dollar each, out of my Estate. Interlined before signed.
In testimony whereof I James Cox hereunto set my hand and affix
my seal The 6th day of March A.D. 1857.
James M. Cox (seal)
Witness: Wm. A. x Owen & R. M. Sensabaugh (his mark)
Page 131
Dated: June 12, 1857 Proven: July 6, 1857 [Recorded P. 71]
I, Wiley Cobb of the County of Hawkins and State of Tennessee be
afflicted and not knowing whether I shall live long or not, I do this day
make and ordain this my last Will and Testament in manner and form following.
First. I will and bequeath my land to my three sons and one daughter, Joseph,
Jackson, Thomas and Elizabeth to be divided equally among them
when they become free. I want my son-in-law Dyer D. Lawson to have
the land till the heirs all comes free to maintain the children upon, also
I want Dyer and the children that is here with him to have all the
grain that is growing on the place, and all the corn, wheat, oats, bacon,
&c that is here now if he stays here with me and takes care of me as
long as I live. I also will and bequeath to my three sons and one daughter
Joseph, Jackson, Thomas and Mary all my beds and bed clothing,
to be equally divided among them and the three boys to have the cupboard.
I also will and bequeath to my three sons my horses to keep here on the
place for the purpose of using them here among them all that is here on
the place. I want Joseph to have his oxens that he now claims, I
also want my cow kept here among them to milk, and I also want them to
keep the hogs to make them meat for next year, and I want Dyer and
the boys to finish paying for the land in corn if Joel Cobb will
wait with them till they can and if he wont why, they must sell one of
the horses to pay it. I want Dyer to keep all the farming utensils
here on the farm to use, and I want Dyer and Elizabeth to
keep the house and kitchen furniture. I also will my side saddle to my
daughter Elizabeth, and the other saddle I will to my son Joseph.
I will my sheep to them all that is here to keep them here among them till
they become free and then divided them among equally and I want the geese
to stay here among them all that is here. I lastly will to my two daughters
Catharine and Mandy five dollars to each of them to have
when they become free, and also my daughter Mary $5.00 to have when
she becomes free. And, lastly. I hereby constitute and appoint Dyer
D. Lawson to pay all of the heirs the money as they become free. This
my last Will and Testament. In witness whereof I have set my hand and seal
This June the 12th, 1857.
Wiley x Cobb (seal) (his mark)
Attest: A. O. Lawson H. E. Lawson
Page 132
Dated: December 19, 1857 Proven: Feb. Term, 1861
I, Susannah Critz do make and publish this my last Will and Testament,
hereby revoking and making void all other wills by me at any time made.
First. I direct that all expenses and all debts be paid as soon after my
death as possible out of any money that I may die possessed of, or may
first come into the hands of my Executor. Second. I give and bequeath my
riding mare to Mary Kinkead. Thirdly. I give and bequeath a one
year old horse colt to Samuel A. Kinkead and all the cash, notes
and accounts and all my rent, grain of every description. Fifthly and lastly.
I give and bequeath to Mary Kinkead one cow and calf and all my
household and kitchen furniture and my bed and all my bed clothing. Lastly.
I denominate and appoint David Kinkead my Executor. In witness whereof
I do to this my will set my hand and seal. This the 19th day of December,
1857. Susannah x Critz (seal) (her mark)
Signed, sealed and published in our presence and (we) have subscribed (our)
names hereunto in the presence of the Testator. This 19th day of December,
1857. James M. Bellomy, W. A. Pearson, Hiram x Wills (his mark)
Page 133
Dated: December 13, 1860 Proven: Sept. Term, 1862
I, Eliakenn Cox, do make and publish this my last Will and Testament,
hereby revoking and making void all other wills by me made at any time.
First. I direct that my funeral expenses and all my just debts be paid
as soon after my death as possible, out of any money that I may die possessed
of or may first come into the hands of my herinafter named Executor. Secondly.
I give and bequeath to my wife Elizabeth Cox my farm for her own
use. After the death or marriage of my wife Elizabeth, I give and
bequeath the said farm to my youngest son Hugh Cox, provided he
will come and live upon it, and if he will not come and live upon the farm,
then I give said farm to my grandson, Eliacium Hardin. Third - Twelve.
I give and bequeath to my following children one dollar each: Ann Hardin,
Mathew Cox, Margaret Johnson, Rachael Foster, Martin Cox, Mariah Foster,
Eliacuim Cox, Lucinda Johnson & William Cox. Said money to be paid
by my Executor as soon as may be convenient. Lastly. I do hereby nominate
and appoint Daniel M. Sheffey Executor. In witness whereof I do
to this my last Will and Testament set my hand and seal this 13 day of
December 1860.
E. Cox (seal)
Signed, sealed and published in our presence and we have subscribed our
names hereto in the presence of the Testator. This 13 day of December,
1860. Thos J. x Lee (his mark) Gale x Walker (his mark)
Page 134
Dated: December 19, 1860 Proven: February Term 1861
In view of the uncertainty of life & the certainty of death, I, Archibald
Carmichael, of the County of Hawkins, Tennessee, being sick in body
but of sound and disposing mind & memory, do make publish and declare
the following to be my last Will & Testament, hereby revoking &
making void any other wills heretofore made by me. First. It is my will
& desire that all my funeral expenses should be paid. Secondly. It
is my will & desire that all my just debts shall be paid and discharged.
Thirdly. In as much as it is my opinion that my personal effects will not
be sufficient to pay off and discharge my debts, it is my will and desire
that Executor & Executrix hereafter named shall sell my real estate
at public or private sale as in their discretion they may think advisable
& for the interest of my dearly beloved wife and children & shall
sell the same on a credit of six or twelve months, the purchaser/s giving
bond with security & with interest from day of sale for the purchase
money, a lien retained until the purchase money is fully paid. Fourthly.
It is my will & desire that after all my just debts shall have been
paid, the residue of my Estate shall be handed over to my dearly beloved
wife to be laid out in the purchase of a comfortable house for herself
& family and the residue if any, to go to the use of the family in
their education & training &c. Fifthly. It is my will and desire
that my dearly beloved wife shall use occupy & enjoy said property
or house so purchased for & during her natural life & at her death
the same to be equally divided amongst my four children, to wit: Mattie
Ellen, William Andrew, Whitfield and Ann, share and share alike,
and in the event my beloved wife shall in her good judgement think it best
to marry a second time, then & in that case whatever property she may
have purchased or may have saved of my Estate shall be divided equally
between her and my four children, share & share alike. Lastly. I do
hereby nominate, constitute & appoint my dearly beloved wife my Executrix
& my esteemed friend George R. Powel my Executor of this my
last Will & Testament. In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand
& affixed my seal This 19th day of December A.D. 1860.
A. Carmichael (seal)
Witness: Hu Walker, Audley Anderson
Page 42
Dated: May 30, 1828
I, William Bailey, Sr. of the County of Hawkins and State of Tenn.,
knowing that uncertainty of life and the certainty of death, and being
of sound mind and memory but weak in body, I ordain and declare this my
last Will and Testament. First. I bequeath my body to the grave and my
soul to Almighty God, the giver of it. My worldly goods, after defraying
my burial, I give and bequeath in the following manner, to wit: I bequeath
to my son James Bailey the land on which I lately lived, on the
south side of Beech Creek, after deducting or taking from it what has been
conveyed to my son WIlliam Bailey, Jr. ALso, the benefit of an entry
of 100 acres mad by him, James, in my name on the 26th of this month
on condition he pay to Sally Harmon, Wife of David Harmon, fifteen
dollars in good trade. I give to my daughter Frankey Luster, wife
of S. D. Luster, that part of (a) tract of land which lies on both
sides of Beech Creek. Beginning on a hickory, a corner of the old survey
which was originally a sour wood, to run to a stake from thence a corner
of said tract at the end of the line of a hundred poles crossing the creek.
Then with old line to Luster line. THen to the beginning on condition said
Luster relinquish all claims against me. In case he does not relinquish
any clams he may have, the land is to go to James Bailey who is
to pay the claim of said Luster. I give to my granddaughter Jude
Harmon my bed and furniture. I bequeath to Aggy Stacy, Besty Christian,
Polly Fields, three heirs of John Bailey and the heirs of Thomas
Bailey one dollar each. To my sons Carr Bailey, Samuel Bailey
and daughter Susan Williams, I have given their portion heretofore.
It is my wish that James Bailey my son act as my Executor for which
and to pay the legacies herewith bequeathed, I give all my remaining personal
estate. In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this
30th of May, 1828.
Signed, Sealed and acknowledge William X Bailey (seal) before us
the date above.
John A. Rogers Aln Long Robb Miller
Page 43
Date: June 10, 1829
In the Name of God, Amen. Be it remembered that I, Henry Bruthinton
of the County of Hawkins and State of Tennessee, considering the uncertainty
of this mortal life and being sick of body, but of sound and perfect mind
and memory, blessed be ALmighty God for the same, do make and publish this
my last Will and Testament in manner and form following. That is to say:
First: I give and bequeath unto my eldest son Jacob all my land
where I now live, lying and being in the County and State aforesaid, containing
55 acres more or less, to hold forever with all the appurtenances thereunto;
likewise, I give unto my said son Jacob all my farming utensils
with all my stock such as one horse, one cow and calf, nine sheep, eleven
hogs, four bee stands and all the household furniture. The latter is to
fall to my beloved wife Betsy Bruthinton when he comes of age. The
above mentioned property my beloved wife Betsy (is) to make use
of as she wants it for the children' maintenance. She is to live on the
place as long as she chooses and as to the rest of my children (that is
to say), my three girls Jinny, Catharine and Polly--when
Jacob my son comes of age...is to give unto the girls one cow and
a calf a- piece. And I hereby appoint my beloved wife Betsy sole
Executrix of this my last Will and Testament, hereby revoking all former
wills by me made. In witness whereof I have set my hand and seal the tenth
day of June, One thousand eight hundred and twenty-nine.
Henry X Bruthinton (his mark)
Signed, sealed published and declared by the above named Henry Bruthinton
to be his last Will and Testament in the presence of us: William C.
Reynolds Isaac Laudeback
Page 135
Dated: Feb. 18, 1861 Proven: April, 1861
I, Joel Cobb of the County of Hawkins and State of Tennessee, do
make and publish this my last Will and Testament, hereby revoking and making
void all other wills by me at any time made. First. I direct that my funeral
expense and all my debts be paid as soon after my death as possible out
of any money that I may die possessed of or may first come into the hands
of my Executor. Secondly. I give and bequeath to my son Winsted D. Cobb
and his heirs all my Estate, real and personal, to wit: The tract of land
whereon I now live of 50 acres more or less, joining the lands of Wiley
Cobb's heirs and P. G. Murrel and others, one yellow mare, one
muley red, bridle cow, one cupboard, one bureau, all my beds and bed clothing,
one kettle and one clock, all my bacon and lard, together with everything
I may die seized and possessed of. Thirdly. My son Winsted D. Cobb,
one year after my death is to pay Pleasant G. Murrel $40.00, and
to my daughter Sally Trent $5.00, and to my grand daughter Polly
Frazier $1.00, and to the heirs of Wiley Cobb, $1.00, and to
my daughter Polly Murrel, $1.00, and to my daughter Fanny Murrel,
$1.00, and to the heirs of Jacob How $1.00, and to my son Edward
Cobb, $1.00. Lastly. I appoint my son Winsted D. Cobb my Executor.
In witness whereof I do to this my will set my hand and seal. This 18th
day of February, 1861.
Joel x Cobb (seal) (his mark)
Signed, sealed and acknowledged in the presence of: Wm. J. Pearson,
Banks x Lawson, (his mark) Thomas x Lawson (his mark)
Page 136
Dated: March 23, 1861 Proven: May term 1861
I, William Carmack of the County of Hawkins and State of Tenn. Being
advanced in years but of sound mind and memory, do hereby make and declare
this to be my last Will & Testament, to wit: First. I give and bequeath
to the heirs of my son Cornelius, dec'd the proceeds of a note on
my son William E. Carmack for $1,000.00 dated February 21, 1861
and due five years after date to be divided amongst the children of said
Cornelius Carmack, share and share alike. Second. I give and bequeath
to my daughter Polly Ann who married Lewis Long one dollar.
Third. I give and bequeath to my three sons James, Wiley & Epps
Carmack the proceeds of a note on my son William E. Carmack for
$63.97 due one day after date and dated 23 March, 1861, to be divided equally.
Fourth. I give and bequeath to my said three sons above named to wit: James,
Wiley & Epps Carmack a Land Warrant issued by the United States
to me for 80 acres as the proceeds of said Land Warrant, if sold by me
during my lifetime or by my Executor or Administrator after my death to
be divided amongst them, share and share alike. Fifth. I give and bequeath
to my son William E. Carmack all the remainder of my estate whatever
there may be. Lastly. I hereby appoint Cornelius C. Miller Executor
of this my last Will & Testament, hereby revoking all other wills by
me at any time made. In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and
affixed my seal. This 23rd day of March 1861.
William Carmack (seal)
Signed, sealed & acknowledged in our presence the 23rd day of March
1861. J. B. Vance, C. E. x Carmack,(his mark) A. J. x Camp
(his mark)
Page 137
Dated: June 20, 1861 Proven: Aug. Term, 1861
I, George S. Childress of the County of Hawkins in the State of
Tennessee, being in feeble health, but of sound and perfect mind and memory
do make, publish and declare this to be my last Will and Testament. As
regards my estate, real and personal, I desire to dispose of the same as
follows: First. I will and desire that all my indebtedness and my funeral
expenses be paid as soon as practicable after my decease. Secondly. I will
and devise to my dearly beloved wife Sarah T. Childress my entire
interest in the negroes, land and other personal property which belong
to the heirs of James M. Childress dec'd, late of Sullivan County,
State of Tennessee, said lands are situated in Sullivan County upon the
waters of Reedy Creek. Said negroes and lands are undivided between the
heirs of James M. Childress, dec'd. And Lastly. I do hereby appoint
(and nominate) Andrew Leslie, Esq. of Sullivan County, Tennessee
my Executor of this my last Will and Testament. In testimony whereof I
have hereunto subscribed my name and affixed my seal on this 20th day of
June, 1861.
G. S. Childress (seal)
Signed, sealed and acknowledged in our presence and in the presence of
the Testator on 20th day of June, 1861. Signed after interlining. Witness:
R. G. Netherland, S. Richardson
Page 138
Dated: August 11, 1861 Proven: October, 1861
I, William L. Christian, do this day make and publish this as my
last Will and Testament, hereby revoking all former wills that may have
been made by me at any time heretofore. First. I will and bequeath that
my funeral expenses, together with my debts shall be paid out of any money
that I may die seized and possessed of at my death, or the first money
(that) may come into the hands of my Executor. Second. I will and bequeath
unto my wife Elizabeth Christian the home place. Third. I will and
bequeath to my son William L. Christian the east end of my place.
Beginning at the bridge on the branch running from Mary Skelton's.
Thence with the branch at a mouth of a ditch, thence due north to John
Skelton's line. Fourth. I will and bequeath to my daughter Mahaly
St. John and the heirs of her body the north part of my land. Beginning
at the line fence on Wullran line, formerly the line fence of John Skelton,
dec'd. Thence with said fence as it has formetly run to a mulberry. Thence
a straight line to the corner aup (and up?) Next Alex Mountain of a twelve
and ahalf acre entry bought from John Skelton, Sr. Thence with the
several courses and distance to the beginning. Fifthly. I will and bequeath
to my son James Christian the part of my land joining Mahaly
St. John. Beginning at the mulberry, St. John Corner, thence a straight
line to the creek to a beech tre on the bank of the creek with the meanders
of said creek aup to a blackhaw bush. Thence a west course straight to
the beginning. Also, one half of the 25 acre entry on the side of Alex
Mountain adjoining my land. Sixthly. I will and bequeath to my son David
Christian the part adjoining James, including my buildings of
every description on said part. Beginning at the gum, James' Corner,
thence with the old line crossing the creek to a walnut tree at the foot
of the hill. Thence with the fence to the lane. Thence a straight line
to an elm, then with the drain to the line between me and Mary Skelton.
Then with the line to the road, to a black oak and sweet gum. Thence with
the road to the head of the ditch, thence with the ditch to the creek.
Seventhly. I will and bequeath to my daughter Mary E. Christian
and to the heirs of her body all the land lying adjoining Mary Skelton
& William L. Christian, Mahaly St. John & James Christian, also
one half of the entry on Alex Mountain--that half to James and the
other to her--her half to be laid off at the east end of said tract. Eightly.
I will and bequeath to my daughter Rachael M. Christian and the
heirs of her body all the part of my land lying south of David and
joining his part, also to have one half of the forty acre entry under the
Big Mountain, and David to have the other half of said entry. Ninthly.
I will and bequeath to my four children to be equally divided among them
to wit: Stephen Christian to have where he lives to include his
house; Eldridge to have his place where he now lives; Jesse to
have where he now lives; Joseph F. his part adjoining Jesse Christian
and Stephen Christian and Polly Bailey next the Big Mountain,
on the north side of said mountain. Tenthly. I will and bequeath that my
children, namely: Eldridge, Stephen, William L., Jesse, Isaac shall
each pay $5.00 for seven years and Mahaly St. John to pay $5.00
for five years. Eleventh. I hereby nominate and appoint my wife Elizabeth
Christian my Executor. In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my
hand and seal. This the 16th of August, 1861.
William L. x Christian (seal) (his mark)
Signed, sealed and delivered in our presence. This the 16th day of August,
1861. Attest: T. A. x Long (his mark)
Acknowledged in our presence This 13 Day of September, 1861. John Ball,
James Feagins, George D. Wagner
Page 139
Dated: May 7, 1862 Proven: July Term 1862
I Samuel Chesnutt do make and publish this my last Will and Testament,
hereby revoking and making void all other wills by me at any time made.
First. I direct that my funeral expenses and debts to be paid in the manner
I shall hereinafter direct. Secondly. I give and bequeath to my beloved
wife Susan all the household and kitchen furniture that she brought
with her, also one waggon, mare and colt and sheep and cattle and hogs,
also one negro woman named Amanda during her life. Also, if she
chooses to remain with the family she is to have one room of the house
and to have her support from the proceeds of the land which I shall bequeath
to my daughter Caroline and son Samuel. Thirdly. I give and
bequeath to my daughter Polly Kirkpatrick and her children the land
on which she lives as laid off to her, also a negro woman named Ester
and her youngest child. Fourthly. I give and bequeath to my daughter Catherine
Cobb and her children the land on which she now lives as laid off to
P. A. Cobb. Also one negro man, Lilbourne when my son Samuel
attains the age of 22 years. Fifthly. I give and bequeath to my daughter
Sally Morell and her children one negro woman Sydney and
her twin children. Sixthly. I give and bequeath to my son Thomas one
black boy named Charles and one-third of the tract of land where
I now live also a small lot lying down west of the mill adjoining Simpson's
lands. Seventhly. I give and bequeath to my daughter Margaret Phillips
and her children one negro girl Ann and a negro woman Amanda
at the death of my wife. Eightly. I give and bequeath to my daughter
Caroline and her children one negro girl Mary and one third
of the tract of the land on which I live. Ninthly. I give and bequeath
to my son Samuel one negro boy Bob and one third of the tract
of land on which I live. I wish the land divided without respect to quality
but equal in number of acres. Thomas to have his third off the upper
end of the farm Caroline next & Samuel the lower end
including the dwelling house. I wish Lilbourn to remain with and
work on the farm for the support of the family until my son Samuel attains
the age of 22 years. Tenthly. I give and bequeath to my grand daughter
Muscadore Smith one negro boy named Elbert. If she should
die without issue then said boy Elbert revert to my estate and be
equally divided. I wish my negro man Jo to be sold and the proceeds
applied to payment of my debts, together with the moneys that are due me.
After my debts are paid, if there remains any surplus, I wish it equally
divided amongst my children. If the debt due me known as the mule debt
be collected, I give $300.00 of that to daughter Margaret, in addition
to what I have heretofore given her. My farming tools, waggon, horses and
all my stock I wish to remain on the farm for the use of the family. Also
the balance of my household and kitchen furniture I give to my daughter
Caroline and son Samuel. Lastly. I nominate and appoint my
brother Rodham Chesnutt Executor of this my last Will and Testament.
I wish my old negro woman Lydia to live with any of the family that
she may choose. I desire that my Executor shall not be required to enter
into bond with security. In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand
and affixed my seal This 7 day of May, 1862.
Sam'l Chesnutt (seal)
Signed, sealed and acknowledged in our presence: Thos J. Lee, C. F.
Hobbs
I hereby acknowledge myself satisfied and consent to the above disposition
of property as made by the Will and Testament of my husband. Susan Chesnutt
(seal)
Thos. J. Lee C. F. Hobbs
Page 141
Dated: July 29, 1863
I, Allen Carter of the County of Hawkins and State of Tenn. Hereby
revoking and making void all former wills by me made and first: I direct
that my body be decently buried in a manner suitable to my condition in
life, and as to such worldly Estate as it has pleased God to intrust me
with, I dispose of as follows: First. I direct that all my debts and funeral
expenses be paid as soon after my death as possible out of any money that
I may die possessed of. Second. I will and bequeath to my wife Tempyrance
(Tempey) and my children all my lands and stock, household and kitchen
furniture of all kinds. My wife is to have the above bequeath her lifetime
or as long as she remains my widow. Whenever my wife ceases to be my widow,
the entire Estate is to be equally divided amongst my children. In witness
whereof I Allen Carter have hereunto set my hand and seal this 29th
day of July, 1863.
Allen x Carter (seal) (his mark)
Attest: A. D. Johnson Stephen Darter David Hickman
Page 142
Dated: March 18, 1823
In the Name of God, Amen. I Pharoah Cobb of the County of Hawkins
in the State of Tenn., being in perfect health and of sound, disposing
mind and memory and knowing that all must die, do make this my last Will
and Testament in manner and form following, to wit: It is my will and desire
that all my just debts be paid. I give and bequeath unto my beloved wife
Barsha four negroes, Stephen, Lucy his wife and her two children
Cairy and Eliza with all my household and kitchen furniture,
to her and her heirs forever. It is my will and desire that my wife Barsha
should enjoy and have the use of the house and kitchen that we now occupy
with as much of the cleared and woodland as may be deemed sufficient for
her support her life, with two of my horse beasts, her choice, and four
cows and calves of her choice with as many sheep and hogs as she may need
for her use and support, and at her death the same to be sold by my Executor
hereafter named. I also leave to my said wife a negro boy named Peter
during her lifetime, and at her death he is to be sold as above. Whereas
I have heretofore given to my son-in-law Julias Conner property
to the amount of $3,000.00 which is all that I ever intend to give him.
I have also given to my grandson Conner one young negro woman worth
$500.00 for the express purpose of supporting and taking care of his mother.
I have heretofore given to my son in law Absalom Kyle $2,000.00
worth of property. And to my son Jesse Cobb $2,000.00 worth of property.
A part of the property that I have heretofore given to my son Jesse
is a negro woman named Charity then having two children, but
has now five. And since that gift was made a certain Julias Conner
has filed his Bill in Equity for the recovery of said negroes and to guard
against the event of the suit, I do hereby set apart six negroes, to wit:
A negro Esther and her two children, and Hamilton, Wyly and
Frankey which is for my son Jesse Cobb provided he should
lose Charity and her five children, but should my son Jesse gain
the suit and keep negro Charity it is then my will that negro woman
Esther and her two children and Hamilton, Wyly and Franky
should be divided as hereafter mentioned. My Executors shall pay to my
daughter Barshaba Kyle and to my grand daughter Barshaba Cobb,
daughter of my son Arthur Cobb dec'd one thousand dollars each
in negroes and money out of my estate. And it is further my will and desire
that my Executors...shall lay off all my negroes not otherwise disposed
of into three parcels of equal value or as nearly so as convenient, putting
as many of one family into the same parcel as can be done with convenience,
and draw by lot...one lot or third part to my daughter Barshaba Kyle,
one third part to my three grand daughters, Eliza, Barshaba and
Sally, children of my son Richard Caswell Cobb dec'd and
one third part to my grand daughter Barshaba Cobb, daughter of my
son Arthur Cobb, dec'd. And it is my will and desire that all the
rest of my personal Estate not by this will devised, my blacksmith tools
excepted, be sold by my Executors and the money arising therefrom be equally
divided in the following manner, to wit: One third part to my daughter
Barshaba Kyle, one third part to my three grand daughters, Eliza,
Barshaba and Sally children of my son Richard C. Cobb, dec'd.
And one third part to Barshaba Cobb, daughter of my son Arthur,
dec'd. To them and their heirs forever. It is my will that if in allotting
of my negroes as above mentioned that one lot or lots should be of more
value than the others, that those drawing the highest price lot shall pay
to those drawing the lower price lot so as to make them all equal as my
Executors may think proper. It is further my will that the property left
my wife her lifetime and directed to be sold, that the money be divided
into three parcels and given in the above manner. I give and bequeath to
my sons William and Jesse the tracts of land I live on to
be divided in the following manner: The Island to be equally divided by
running a line across the same, giving to my son William the lower
part and Jesse the upper part. Then to begin at the upper elm tree
standing on the bank of the river a little distance above a Spanish oak
and several elms, small distance above the point of the island and above
a cliff of rock. Then to run an east or nearly an east course to a stake
or stone that I may hereafter set up. Then north or nearly north to a Spanish
oak and cherry tree standing close together on the point of a hill near
the creek, then up the middle of the creek to the lower end of a new meadow
made since I purchased from William Lee, then along the line of
the meadow fence and to continue that course as near as may be up to Galbraith's
line, leaving all the flat meadow ground to the north of the line so to
be run, unless I may hereafter make a line from the meadow up to Galbraith's
line, which if I do shall be the dividing line, and I give to my son William
the lower part of said land, and to Jesse the upper part, reserving
to my wife as before mentioned. I give and bequeath to my sons William
and Jesse the mill tract, to them and their heirs forever. I
give to my son Jesse all my blacksmith tools. And, I appoint my
friends George Hale, Andrew Galbraith and Richard Mitchell
my Executors to this my last Will, revoking all others by me made. In witness
whereof I Pharoah Cobb hath hereto set my hand and seal. This 18th
day of March 1823.
Pharoah Cobb (seal)
Signed, sealed and acknowledged on the 5th day of May, 1823 in the presence
of G. D. Mitchell R. H. Mitchell
Page 145
Dated: July 20, 1793
In the Name of God, Amen. I, Rawleigh Dodson Sr. being in an infirm
state of health but of sound mind and considering that I may shortly leave
this life, I have thought it necessary to make this my last Will &
Testament, revoking all former wills by me made, and in the first place
I resign myself to the disposal of my Creator hoping for mercy & forgiveness.
In respect of my Earthly affairs, To my wife I leave and bequeath my whole
Estate real & personal to her use during her natural life, after which
I leave to my son Rawleigh Dodson the plantation on which I now
live with all the appurtenances, also one other piece of land joining,
butted and bounded as appears by the patent in my name, also all my working
tools, horses, except a motherless colt, three cows with their calves,
one feather bed with the furniture, half the pewter, and one half pot mettal,
also what hay I may have remaining. To my grandchildren Mary and
Nancy Shelton, the remainder of my cattle equally divided, also
the remainder of the pewter and pot mettal to be equally divided between
them, and to Mary Shelton one bed and furniture, also the motherless
colt, one cotton and one linen wheel and half the cards, the other wheel
& cards to Nancy. There is a bond due me of fifteen pounds from
Henry Rowan to be collected and my debts paid out of it. Peggey
Manafee my eldest daughter having by her husband obtained credit for
sixty pounds for which I have his note, I hereby direct my Executor to
give up said note. My sons Lazarus and Tolliver I have done
a Fatherly part by and hereby acquit them of all demands that I may have
against them. My daughter Nelly the wife of John Saunders I
consider I have done enough for, having given her husband the land he now
lives on. My son James to whom I have (already) given several things,
I now bequeath my claim on Thos. Jackson for share of some land
to be obtained by a warrant by me given to said Jackson to be laid
on the halves provided said warrant obtains a title for land. Warrant was
for 300 acres. I also appoint my son Lazarus and my neighbor Rodham
Kenner my Executors and do authorize and direct them to put this my
said Will & Testament into effect. In witness whereof I have hereunto
set my hand and seal This 20th day of July A.D. 1793.
Rawleigh x Dodson (seal) (his mark)
Test. Thos. Jackson Rodham Kenner Mary x Shelton (her mark)
Page 146
Dated: December 28, 1818
This is to certify that I Edward Dowdall late of the County of Frederick
and State of Virginia being in perfect health and of sound mind and disposing
memory and calling to mind the uncertainty of human life and being about
to proceed upon an eventful journey and not knowing that I shall live to
return to Hawkins County in Tennessee from whence I now depart and hope
to return but in case of my decease before I should return to said place
of departure, it is my sincere wish that Michael McCann of Hawkins
County, Tenn. Should have all the estate both real and personal of which
I am entitled to as being the lawful heir of Joseph Raverhill, dec'd
late of Knox County, State of Tennessee, it is my wish that the Estate
of said Joseph Raverhill, decd should go to said M. McCann or
his lawful heirs. Given under my hand and seal this 28th day of December,
1818, and in the presence of: J. Wilson Larkin Willis
Page 147
Dated: December 4, 1823
In the Name of God, Amen. I Francis Dalzell of the County of Hawkins
in the state of Tennessee being weak of body but of sound mind and memory
do make and ordain this my last Will and Testament. I recommend my soul
to Almight God. And as to my worldly Estate, I dispose of it as follows,
that is to say. I will that my just debts be paid by my Executor and for
that purpose that the debts owing to me be collected. The money which I
have now on hand I bequeath to my beloved wife Nancy. I also give
and bequeath to her the use of my negroes during her live, and at her death
they all shall be set free. I also devise to my wife Nancy the house
and lots on which I now live with the appurtenances, and the use of my
plantation adjoining George Hale and John A. McKinney to
her during her life and after her death the plantation to go to the children
of my brother William and I make the same disposition of my river
plantation if it be gained in law as a suit is now depending respecting
it. All my stock and household furniture and farming utensils I also give
and bequeath to my beloved wife. And I appoint my friends Dicks Alexander
and John A. McKinney the Executors of this my last Will and
Testament. In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal This
the first day of December A.D. 1823.
Fran's Dalzell (seal)
Test. A. McKinney, Samuel Neill
Page 148
Dated: October 14, 1825
In the Name of God, Amen. I William Dykes senr. of the County of
Hawkins and State of Tennessee, being very weak but in perfect mind and
memory, Thanks be given unto God. Calling unto mind the mortality of my
body and knowing that it is appointed for all men once to die, do make
and ordain this my last Will and Testament. That is to say, principally
and first of all, I give and recommend my soul unto the hand of Almighty
God that gave it, and my body I recommend to the Earth to be buried in
a decent Christian burial at the discretion of my Executor, nothing doubting
but at the general resurrection I shall receive the ______same again by
the mighty power of God. And as touching such world Estate wherewith it
has pleased God to bless me in this life, First of all, I give and bequeath
to Susannah Dykes my beloved wife my dwelling house and all the
land on the south side of the road on Beech Creek, Hawkins County, and
bounded on the west by the land of Jacob Light and on the east by
Flower Mullins, during her life, and at her death my son William
Dykes is to have that part of my land that I have devised to my wife.
And also I give to Susannah Dykes all my personal estate, or as
much as she sees cause to retain, and after her decease all my personal
estate to be sold by my Exec. Hereinafter appointed, and money arising
therefrom to be equally divided between my four daughters, Mary Hase,
(Hale?), Prissilla Cooper, Sarah Mullins and Ann Raseberry.
I give and bequeath that part of my land on the north side of Beech Creek
Road between Thos. Mullins and Flower Mullins to my son Isum
Dykes to dispose of as he thinks proper. I give and bequeath to my
son John Dykes 250 acres of land, be the same more or less joining
the land of Flower Mullins on the head of Beech Creek on the waters
of Walkers fork to dispose of as he thinks proper. I give to David McCatley
a colt that my bay mare is now with foal, provided s'd David pays
the season. I add nothing now to my son James Dykes I have made
ample provision heretofore. I constitute make and ordain my son John
Dykes the sole Executor of this my last Will and Testament and I do
hereby utterly disallow, revoke and disannul all & every other former
Testament, Wills, Legacies, bequests and Executors by me in anywise before
mentioned, willed & bequeathed, ratifying and confirming this and no
other to be my last Will and Testament. In witness whereof I have hereunto
set my hand and seal, This 14th day of October in the year of our Lord,
one thousand Eight hundred and twenty five. Signed, sealed published, pronounced
and declared in presence of: Reuben Bernard Wright x Mullins (his
mark) Joseph x Dykes (his mark)
William x Dykes (seal) (his mark)
Page 149
Date: None
In the Name of God, Amen. I Thomas Dodson of the County of Hawkins
& State of Tennessee, being weak & sick in body but of sound mind
and disposing memory, calling to mind the mortality of my body do make
and ordain this my last Will and Testament in form and manner following.
That is to say. First. I give my soul into the hands of God, and my body
I resign to the earth to be buried in a Christian like manner at the discretion
of my Executors hereinafter named, and as to touching my worldly Estate
wherewith it hath pleased God to bless me, I give and dispose of in the
following manner. First. I will that my loving wife Jamima Dodson possess
& enjoy my whole Estate both real and personal, in this wise. She,
my s'd loving wife Jamima is to raise and bring up my children hereinafter
named in the best manner that her ability will admit, she my s'd wife Jamima
being hereby empowered to lay out so much of my Estate in schooling and
educating all my children as shall be sufficient to answer s'd purpose,
and also my..wife with my Executors is hereby empowered to collect and
receive all money due me on bonds, notes of hand or otherwise; also to
sell any such personal property as she and my Executors shall think proper
&c. And further, I will that my s'd wife have hold, possess & enjoy
my whole Estate both real & personal until my youngest child arrives
at the age of twenty one years, except my s'd wife Jamima should
marry before that time, and if that be the case, and should my Estate appear
to be wasting and destroying, my Executors to take charge until my youngest
child Rolly arrives at the age of twenty one years at which time
legal division be made of my whole Estate, both real and personal between
my wife and four children, viz: James, Sarah, Elisha and Rolly
Dodson and further, if Thomas Robinson and John Robinson
live and abide with my wife and behave orderly and well until they
are twenty one years of age, then each of them is to have a horse and saddle
with $100.00 out of my Estate. And further, I appoint my loving wife Jamima
my lawful Executrix and James Johnson & Samuel Riggs my Executors
of this my last Will and Testament. Signed, sealed, published & declared
by the said Thomas Dodson as his last Will & Testament, in presence
of, James Dodson Richard Hellson Richard Roberson, Jurat
Thomas x Dodson (seal)(his mark)
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