Hawkins
County 
Wills
Page 261
Dated: Feb. 24, 1860
Proven: Apr. 2nd, 1860
I John Harlan do hereby make and publish this my last Will and Testament,
hereby revoking all former wills by me made. First. I will and bequeath
that my just debts be paid in the manner hereafter to be specified. Secondly.
I will and bequeath that a tract of land that I own purchased at a sale
of John Groves, dec'd, owned by Groves in his lifetime and
sold to pay his debts, containing about 81 acres, adjoining the old Groves
farms be sold and the proceeds of said sale be equallly divided amongst
all my children. 3rd. I will and bequeath to my son Thomas Harlan
my Bunker Hill farm containing about 300 acres, said Thomas to pay
my daughter Rachael $300.00. 4th. I will and bequeath to my daughter
Rachael the above sum of $300.00 to be paid to her by Thomas,
I also will and bequeath to the said Rachael my negro boy Jake.
I further will to Rachael, if she should marry , an equal amount
of property to go to housekeeping with that I have already given my other
daughters, Elizabeth and Matilda. And my wife Tabitha
is to determine the articles they received, and in the event my daughter
Rachael should never marry, she shall have a house free of charge
upon the old home farm and at my family residence. I will and bequeath
unto my daughter Matilda who intermarried with Joshua Smith,
in addition to what she has received, $300.00, to be raised in the manner
hereafter specified. I will and bequeath to my wife Tabitha a comfortable
support during her natural life, to be raised in the manner hereafter specified.
My wife Tabitha is also to have control of my dwelling house as
long as my son Cornelius should remain single. And if my son Cornelius
should marry then my wife is to have during her natural life, choice of
rooms in my house, together with a room to cook in and out houses necessary
to make her comfortable. I will and bequeath to my son Cornelius
all the balance of my land, together with my two slaves Henry and
Malvina, all my farming utensils , house-hold and kitching furniture,
all my stock, my notes and accounts, but my son Cornelius is charged
with the following payments: He is to pay all my just debts of every description;
he is to pay my daughter Matilda Smith $300.00. He is also to pay
my daughter Mary Eliza $800.00 when she marries or becomes 21 years
of age. My said son Cornelius is to raise and educate my daughter
Mary Eliza and furnish her a comfortable home as long as she remains
single. The said Cornelius is also to provide my daughter Rachael
with a home at the old homestead as long as she remains single , free
from charge , furnish her and her sister with a horse to go to church,
and Cornelius is also to furnish Rachael with the same amount
of articles to go to housekeeping with that I gave my other daughters ,
Matilda and Elizabeth in the event she should marry. My son
Cornelius is also to furnish my wife Tabitha with a comfortable
support as long as she lives. She is to have control of the dwelling house
as long as Cornelius remains single. Should he marry, then my wife
is to select what room or rooms she may desire in the homestead with any
out buildings she may desire. The above named real estate so bequeathed
to my son Cornelius is charged with the payment of the above bequests
, and my son Cornelius is also to have my blacksmith tools, together
with all my personal property not herein disposed of. I will and bequeath
to my daughter Mary Eliza in addition to the expenses she may incur
upon my son Cornelius in raising, the following slaves and their
increase to wit: John, Julia and her child Sudy and Ben,
and the sum of $800.00 when she marries or becomes 21 years of age , which
my son Cornelius is to pay her. She is also to have a home at the
old homestead as long as she remains single. My son Cornelius is
to support said slaves and their increase and have the use of them until
Mary Eliza marries or becomes 21. Cornelius is also to provide
my wife with a good, gentle saddle horse as long as she lives. I hereby
appoint my son Cornelius Executor of this my last Will and Testament
with full power to sell the tract of land bequeathed by me to be sold,
dividing the proceeds equally among all my children... In testimony whereof
I have hereunto set my hand and seal This the 24th day of February, 1860.
John Harlan (seal)
Signed and sealed in our presence, and we have subscribed our names as
witnesses in the presence of the Testator. A. Carmichael, C. C. Sensabaugh
Page 264
Dated: October 4, 1862
I John B. Headrick 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 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. I will and
bequeath to my son John Headrick 50 acres of my land as willed him
by my father, John Headrick, according to the will of the said John
Headrick. Thirdly. I will that the remainder of my land (69 acres more
or less) be sold by my Executor to the best advantage at public or private
sale, together with any personal property and the proceeds thereof to be
equally divided between my four younger children, to wit: Elizabeth
Headrick, Zedic B. Headrick, Daniel W. Headrick and Ishinder Headrick
Lastly , I do hereby nominate and appoint Daniel M. Sheffey Executor.
In witness whereof I do to this my will set my hand and seal This 4th day
of October, 1862.
John B, Headrick
Signed sealed and published in our presence and we have subscribed our
names hereto in the presence of the Testator This 4th day of October, 1862.
J. J. Carroll, H. C. Seavers
Page 264
Dated: April 21, 1859
Proven: Feb'y Term, 1861
State of Tennessee I Jacob Isenberg being of a sound mind and perfect
Hawkins County memory, do make and publish this my last Will and Testament
as follows: First. I will and bequeath unto my beloved wife Elizabeth
the mansion house, out house, and her maintenance of her land during her
natural life, also all my personal property died poses of (sic) after all
my just debts or paid not otherwise bequeathed by me. Second. I will and
bequeath unto my daughter Marh Isen as much of the property as will
make her equal to the rest of the children, or as much as they got from
home when they was married. And the remainder of my property to be quail
divied between all my children. Third. I will and bequeath unto my three
grand children in payment for their lot of land and the child that pay
them gits the lot of land pars as follows: To Jacob J. Malory $100.00.
To Mary M. Mallory S75.00. To Moriah A. Mallory $75.00, all
amounting to $250.00 to be paid as above named as they become of age. 4th.
I will and bequeath all my land to be equal between all of my children.
Simeon Isenberg is to have Joseph B. Isenberg's lot of land
& Elizabeth Mallory three children is to have the above named
sum for their lot of land. 5th. I will and bequeath unto my son Simon
Isenberg his mansion house out house and orchard including his lot
of land where he now lives. I will and bequeath unto my son Benjamin
Isenberg his mansion house out house and orchard where he now lives
including his lot of land. 6th. I will and bequeath unto the child that
waits on or takes care of me and their mother while we live is to have
my house where __________lives, including their lot of land. Lastly. I
nominate my son Simeon Isenberg my sole Executor of this my last
Will and Testament. Given under my hand and seal This the twenty first
day of April one Thousand eight hundred and fifty nine.
Jacob Isenberg (seal)
Publish and sealed and delivered in the presence of us wh hereunto subscribed
our names in the presence of the above Testator as witnesses. D- D.
Anderson Samuel Molsbee
Page 266
Dated: Dec. 15, 1809
In the Name of God, Amen. I Aquilla Jones of the County of Hawkins,
State of Tennessee, being in a langishing state of health but sound in
mind, expecting ere long for to depart this live, committing my soul to
God who gave it and my body for to be buried in Christian decency at the
discretion of my Executors. And as for my portion of worldly things which
God in his providence has bestowed on me, I wish to dispose of in the following
manner. After paying my just debts, I bequeath to my well beloved wife
Mary my dwelling house and the third of the cleared land, one bed and
bedding, stead and furniture during her widowhood. And my land for to be
equally divided between my two sons Martin and Enech according
to quantity and quality, also my farming utensils and the balance of my
household furniture, also after my daughter Ruth Williams one milk
cow. The balance of my live stock for to be divided, two thirds to Martin,
one third to Enech
Signed with my hand and dated This 15th day of December, 1809.
Aquila Jones (seal)
Test. David Kinkead (Jurat) Burough Kincade
Page 266
Dated: Jan'y 27, 1817
In the Name of God, Amen. I Thomas Jackson of Hawkins County in
the State of Tennessee, being of sound mind, do make this my will &
desire that my Estate be divided in the following manner. That my sons
Robert and James have their maintenance off the plantation
where I now live until they come of age and that my eldest son Joseph
S. Jackson have all my land in Hawkins County, the farming utensils
and household furniture, with a negro boy named Berry and the horses
to be equally divided among all my children. My land in Overton and on
Big Lick Creek in West Tennessee to be equally divided between my children
James, Robert and Bethunia. My daughter is to have the negro
woman named Minta. James M. Jackson is to have a negro boy
named Sam, and Robert is to have the boy named Sandy,
and as there is notes in my desk to the amount of $2,700.00, I desire that
my debts may first be paid then the the balance to be equally divided among
all my children, and as my son Joseph is absent from home, it is
my desire that my sons James and Robert continue to live
on my plantation in Hawkins County, and should Joseph die before
he comes home, then my Estate in Hawkins County is to be equally divided
between James and Robert and in that case, Joe and
Eve is to be the property of Bethunia H. Jackson. But should
Joe return, then them old negroes may become the property of that
child who will pay for them dividing the value equally among them, and
Berry also should Joe die before he comes home - he being
yet under age. I appoint M. Neil and George Hale my attornies
to see this my will Executed and to them I join my son James M. Jackson.
As witness my hand & seal This 27th day of January, 1817.
Thomas Jackson (seal)
Test: Samuel x Spears(his mark) & James Breeden
Page 267
Dated: June 26, 1832
In the Name of God, Amen. I, James Johnson, of Hawkins County, State
of Tennessee, being weak in body but of sound and perfect mind and memory
but calling to mind that it is appointed for all men once to die, do execute
and publish this my last Will and Testament. 1st. I leave to my beloved
wife Susannah the plantation on which I am now living, together
with two horses, four cows and calves, 15 hogs, six sheep, all my farming
utensils and household and kitchen furniture. Also, Frank and his
wife, Old George and his wife, which she is to have during her natural
life. If she should wish to discontinue housekeeping, the Executors may
sell the land together with all the property except the negroes, and after
making the heirs equal by counting in what I have previously given my children
- giving my grandson James T. Johnson half as much as one of my
children - then the balance of cash kept for the use of my wife Susannah
until her death to be divided in the manner above named, also the negroes
left to her to be sold and the cash divided in the same way as above named.
Having due regard to the property heretofore given my children, it is to
be understood by this my last will that I have given to my son Thomas
$100.00. To my daughter Charity the sum of $550.00. To my daughter
Lucy the sum of $146.00. To my daughter Folly the sum of
$20.00, which several sums are to be taken into consideration and settled
out of their several shares at my death, or out of my property that is
sold at that time, which is to be all the property not herein mentioned.
I leave to my daughter Charity-Betsy, Sally and Betsy's youngest
child, if she has more than one more child, i.e. the youngest child at
my death. I leave to my daughter Lucy-Bob & Sis &
if Rachael has more than one child before my death, Lucy is
to have the next to the youngest child. I loan to my daughter Mary Rachael,
Mandy and Rachael's youngest child at my death if she has any
more children. I will to my son Jeremiah-Young George, Henry
& Lewis. I will to my son James--Jacob and Katharine
and William. I loan to my grandson James Thomas Johnson-Jacob
and the next child that Betsy may have which I want valued at my
death and with them take into consideration the $100.00 that his father
has had, then at my wife's death, I want him to have enough cash to make
what he and his father has had equal to one half as much as one of my own
children gets, to have the use of during his life, then unless he should
have a lawful heir - a legitimate child - it is my will that what I have
loaned him should be equally divided amongst my children at his death.
And all the above named property I want valued by three good men that may
be chosen by my Executors and each one to have possession of the above
named property at that time, but should one of my children's part or negroes,
together with what I have given them be estimated at more than another,
they are all to be made equal out of what property is sold at that time
or with cash. The above property that I have given to my daughters, or
rather loaned, it is my will that they should have the actual possession
of it until their death, then to be divided amongst their children equally,
but should there be an attempt made in any way to sell the above named
negroes, it is my will that my Executors should take them in possession
and hire them out and apply the proceeds in what way the Executors may
think best to their use. It is also my will that my Executors should out
of what I have given my grandson James T. Johnson give him good
schooling and his part not to be given him until he is twenty one years
old. The land over the river together with what property not herein mentioned
to be sold at my death and disposed of as above mentioned. And if the negro
women should have any more children than what is otherwise disposed of,
they are to be sold at my death with the other property. Ratifying and
confirming this my last will and Testament. In testimony whereof I have
hereunto set my hand & seal This 26th day of June A.D. 1832.
N B Let it hereby be understood that I want my wife to have one year's
provision after my death. It is also my will that the old negroes should
be sold to the highest bidder; but not to be sold unless the heirs bought
them, and so as not to part man and wife.
James Johnson (seal)
Attest: Hardy Johnson & Elisha Dodson
N B It is my wish that James & Jeremiah execute this my last
Will, or some other good man if they both refuse so to do. Given under
my hand This 26th day of June, 1832.
James Johnson (seal)
Attest: Hardy Johnson, Elisha Dodson
Page 269
Dated: April, 1842
In the Name of God, Amen, I, Nancy Johnson of Hawkins County, State
of Tenn., being weak in body but of sound mind, knowing the uncertainty
of life, do make and ordain this my last Will and Testament, that is to
say. I commit my soul unto the hands of my Maker, and as to my property,
I bequeath all to my son-in-law Jacob Giford who married my daughter
Judith Giford. And also I bequeath to Jacob Giford whatever
amount may be due or coming to me on account of a pension from the United
States which Mr. Alexander of Rogersville expects to procure for
me on account of services rendered by my deceased husband. I make this
disposition of what I have because my said daughter, Mrs. Giford
did not get from her father near as much as my other children did get from
him. And because she and her husband have been maintaining me and intend
to do so. I also appoint the said Jacob Giford my sole Executor
of this my last Will and Testament and do not wish that Bond & security
shall be required of him by the Court. In testimony whereof I have hereunto
set my hand & seal this _____ day of April, 1842.
Nancy x Johnson (her mark)
Lincoln Amis Jesse D. Bloomer
Page 270
Dated: Feb. 11, 1849
Proven: Sept. 1860 (By J. H. VANCE, CLK)
I, James Johnson of the County of Hawkins, State of Tennessee, do
make and publish this my last Will and Testament hereby revoking and making
void all former wills by me at any time made. I direct that my body be
interred at my grave yard in said county and suitable to my condition in
life, and as to such worldly estate as it has pleased God to bestow upon
me, I dispose of the same as follows: First. I direct that my debts and
funeral Expenses be paid as soon after my decease as possible out of any
money that I may die possessed of or may first come into the hands of my
Executor from any portion of my Estate. Second I will and bequeath to my
beloved wife Ann, my five slaves, to wit: Charity, a mulatto
woman aged about 53 years, Martha a mulatto girl about 19 years
and her increase, Benston a mulatto boy about 21 and two lit-tle
girls, Catherine & Caroline. My wife Ann to dispose of
said slaves as she may think proper at her death. I also bequeath to my
wife Ann two horses, the choice of my stock, one of said horses
to do with as she may think fit at her death. Also two milk cows and calves,
her choice of my stock, 20 head of hogs and 15 head of sheep, her choice.
Also one wagon and two pair of gear, one patent plow, one shovel plow,
one bull tongue plow, one log chain, one copper kettle, also all of my
household furniture, all kitchen furniture, all my beds, bedsteads and
bed clothing. My wife Ann to dispose of the beds and furniture at
her death as she thinks proper, also all my geese and other fowl. Third.
I will and bequeath to my son Walter Johnson $250.00 out of my Estate.
Fourth. I will and bequeath to my son A. D. Johnson the balance
of the Isam Looney tract of land by the said A. D. Johnson paying
to Walter Johnson $200.00, it being a portion of the above bequeath
to Walter Johnson. It is also my wish that the crop of corn, wheat
and oats on hand be left to my wife Ann to dispose of as she may think
proper. I also will and bequeath if there should be anything left after
paying all my debts and filling the above be-quests that it be equally
divided between all my daughters by my first wife. I do hereby make ordain
and appoint my wife Ann and my son A. D. Johnson Executors
of this my last Will and Testament. In witness whereof I James Johnson
the said Testator have to this my last will set my hand and seal This Eleventh
day of February in the year of our Lord, one thousand eight hundred and
fifty nine.
Attest: James Johnson (seal)
Samuel A. Kirkead Absalom Looney
Page 271
Dated: August 23, 1854
Proven: Nov. Term, 1861
I Thomas Johnson of the County of Hawkins and State of Tennessee,
being of sound disposing mind and memory, do make and ordain this my last
Will and Testament in manner and form following. First. I will that my
body be decently buried in a manner to suit my condition in life, and that
my funeral expenses be paid out of any money that I may die possessed of
or may first come into the hands of my Executor. And that all my just debts
be paid. Second. I will that my wife Elizabeth live on the farm
whereon we now live and that she have her maintenance off the same during
her life time or widowhood. Thirdly. I will and bequeath to my said wife
half the beds and furni-ture, tools and the balance of my stock be sold
at twelve months credit and the proceeds of said sale equally divided between
my five daughters, Elizabeth, Anna, Sally, Patsy and Haner
and my three grandsons, namely: Thomas, Anderson and Abner,
sons of Stephen Johnson, dec 'd, to have one share equal to one
of my daughters. And lastly, I hereby constitute and appoint my friend
Aderson Lawson my Executor to this my last Will and Testament. In
witness whereof I have set my hand and seal Aug. 23rd, 1854.
Thomas Johnson (seal)
Attest: Joseph D. Mitchell, John Mitchell, Alford C. Lawson Edward P.
x Johnson (his mark)& Harmon E. Lawson
Page 272
Dated: May 8, 1861
Proven: July Term, 1861
In the Name of God, Amen. I Robert Johnson of Hawkins County, State
of Tenn., being weak in body but of sound and perfect mind and memory do
make and publish this my last Will & Testament in manner and form following,
that is to say: First. I give and bequeath unto my wife Eliza M. Johnson
$1,000.00. I also give unto my daughter Delph C. Johnson $1,000.00.
Also, I give to my son Robert Emet Johnson $1,000.00. Also I give
to my son Benoni P. C. Johnson $1,000.00. Also I give to my son
Nathaniel Willey McBride Johnson $1,000.00, and also I give
to my grandson Robert J. Looney $1,000.00, the above amount to be
made out of a note I hold on John Riley. And also I desire that
the above be kept at interest and applied to support of the family, and
as they severally come of age to draw their respective shares. And further,
it is my desire that my wife Eliza M. Johnson have my farm during
her natural life to use in support of the family and at her death to be
divided between my three sons, Robert Emet, Benoni T. C., and Nathaniel
Wiley McBride Johnson. I also give to my wife all the household and
kitchen furniture, also all the stocks of cattle, horses, hogs and sheep.
I desire that my wife give each one an out-fit for housekeeping when they
commence that business. Now, out of the balance of my effects - bonds,
notes and accounts of every kind, after my just debts are paid, I desire
my daughter Delpha C. have $500.00 to be placed at interest and
the interest to go to the support of the family until they come of age,
and what., should remain of my effects to be put to interest and the interest
to go to the support of the family as the above named children and grand
children come of age to draw their equal part. It is also my will and desire
that my son William W. Johnson have $25.00 in addition to what I
have given him. Also I desire that my grandson Robert Emet Johnson
have $50.00, also my grandson John Wesley Johnson have $25.00, all
to be paid over within 18 months after my decease. And further, I desire
that my wife have all the farming utensils and all the grain on hand. I
do hereby appoint my wife Eliza M. Johnson my Executor, hereby revoking
all other wills made by me. And further I do not require her to give security.
In testimony whereof I have set my name and affixed my seal This 8th day
of May, 1861.
Attest: Robert Johnson (seal)
Wm. Y Larkin James Hoffman
This Codicil to the foregoing will, whereas I willed to my grandson
Rob't J. Looney in the body of the will one thousand dollars, if
he should not live to the age of 21, it is my will and desire that it should
be equally divided between my daughter Delpha C., Robert Emet, Benoni
P. C. and Nathaniel Wiley McBride Johnson and William W.
I hereby subscribe my name and fix my seal, May 18, 1861.
Robert Johnson (seal)
Attest: Wm. Y. Larkins James Hoffman
Page 274
Dated: June 3, 1807
*Notation made by someone later says Sen'r. - See Original.
In the Name of God, Amen. I Jacob Kline, Jr. being for some time
in a declining state of health, but of sound mind and memory, calling to
mind the mortality of all men that it is appointed unto all men once to
die do by these presents declare, ratify and announce my last Will and
Testament in the manner following, to wit: After commending my soul to
God and my body to the dust from whence it came, to be buried in a decent
and Christian manner, believing they will again be united in the General
Resurrection and received into the favor of God. I do bequeath and dispose
of my worldly goods and chattels in the following manner (Viz): I allow
all my just debts to be paid out of my movable and perishable property.
I give and bequeath to my wife Mottena part of my plantation to
be laid off in the following manner: Beginning on Doctor Finley's
line on the main road, then along the road to the creek - down the creek
by the still house to Henderson's line. Then round my lines to the
beginning to include two cabbins and stable, two fields with the meadow
below the cabbins and also to have the use of a spring that comes out of
the opposite bank of the creek below the still house, she is to have the
use of said spring and land during her life then to be sold and be divided
among my children. I also give her one horse creature, Three cows, Three
sheep, six head of hogs - she shall her choice of all my stock, also three
beds, bedsteads and furniture, my wagon, one pair gears, a saddle and bridle,
one bar share and shovel plow and harrow, one chest and trunk, one table,
six chairs and cotton wheels and one flax do four still tube two barrels
and one half of my kitchen furniture and to be provided for one year out
of my estate by my Executors. her part of the personal estate to be at
her own disposal. There is some of my children has rec'd part of their
portion - them that has shall give an account of what they have rec'd and
my other children shall have as much given them, then my estate equally
divided among all with two exceptions. I give to my daughter Mottena
the sum of one dollar and what she would have by an equal part, to be given
her children. And it is my will that if my son Jacob does marry
Polly Brown, I will give him one dollar and no more, and if not
he shall have his equal part with the rest of my children. I allow all
my estate, real and personal, to be sold by my Executors at their discretion
so they can make the best sale that they can. They may sell my land in
one tract or divide the same or as they may think best. It is my will that
my three youngest sons be schooled to rite, read and ciper, and bound to
trades at the age of 18, at their own choice. Also my four young daughters
be larned to read in the Bible. To be paid out of my Estate: I give my
wife $300.00 that is in the hand of Mical McGurney if it can be
received. I do nominate and appoint my worthy friends Benoni Coldwell
& Jas Forgey to Execute this my last will and Testament revoking
all former wills and Testaments by me made heretofore to be null and void
and declaring this to be my last Will and Testament. Signed, sealed and
published. This 3rd of June in the year of our Lord 1807, and in presence
of witnesses:
Benoni Coldwell Jacob Sensabaugh
Jacob Kline (seal)
Page 275
Dated: December 20, 1808
Virginia, to wit: At a Court held for Washington County the 20th day of
Dec., 1808. The last will and Testament of William King, dec'd was
exhibited into Court and proven by the oath of William D. Neilson
one of the subscribing witnesses thereto who further made oath that he
saw John Daugherty the other subscribing witness sign his name thereto
as a witness at the request of the said William King - that he the
said Daugherty if living, resides in the Mississippi Territory about
one thousand miles from this place, and that the said will except the signatures
of the said witnesses is entirely in the hand writing of the said William
King the Testator, further that the codicil thereto appointing James
King and William Trigg Executors and dated the third day of
March, one thousand eight hundred and six is also in the handwriting of
William King the Testator - That he believes the codicil was written
and lying under the will when he attested it as a witness and he never
saw or knew of any other codicil - Col James King, Samuel Glen &
Jacob Baker made oath that the said will and the codicil dated the
3rd day of March,1806 are in the handwriting of the said William King
the Testator except the attestation of the witnesses to the will. The Court
are of the opinion that the said evidence is sufficient, and it is ordered
that the said will and codicil be recorded, and on motion of William
Trigg and James King, the Executors named in said codicil who
took the oath of Executor prescribed by law and entered into and acknowledged
themselves bound in the sum of one million five hundred thousand dollars
with Robert Craig, Jr., Thomas Tate, Robert Delp, John Aperson,
Josiah Cole, Robert White, Basell Talbutt, John Cole, Thomas Moffett, Joshua
Burke, William Duff, William Jones, Benjamin Estill, Samuel Vance, James
Bryant, Michael Shavener/Shauner Gerrard T. Conn, James Thompson, Enoch
Schoolfield, George Spangler, James Key, John McCullock, John Williamson,
William Gray, James Lyon, Alexander Hamilton, Benjamin Langley, Jacob Mungle,
Robert Houston, Reuben Bradley, Valentine Haugh, John Mitchell, Jacob Baker,
John McCormick, Robert Craig, John Athey, John Goodson, Peter Clark, John
Buchanan, James King, Sen'r., Samuel Meek, Samuel Glen, Rufus Morgan, James
Langley, William McHenry, Michael Dechert, Lilburn L. Henderson, John J.
Trigg, David Smith, Robert Dukes, William D. Neilson, Earl B. Clap, Jacob
Long, Welcome Martin, Robert McCullock, Thomas Thornburgh, Mathew Willoughby
Benjamin Clark, Connally Findley, William King, Joseph Miller, Charles
Tate, Pettus C. Clayton, William Paston, Peter Scott, Securities conditioned
as the law directs. A Certificate is therefore granted them for the probate
of said will in due form. In testimony that the foregoing is a true copy,
I John Campbell, Clerk of Washington County in the state aforesaid
have hereunto Subscribed my name and affixed the seal of the said County
this 24th day of December in the year of our Lord, one thousand, eight
hundred and eight, and the Commonwealth the thirty-third. John Campbell
Washington County, to wit: I Robert Campbell presiding Justice
of the Court of Washington County in the State aforesaid do certify that
the above attestation of John Campbell Clerk of the Court of the
said County is in due form. Given under my hand this 29th day of December,
1808 Robert Campbell
Page 277
Dated: October 14, 1816
In the Name of God Amen. I George Karnes, Senior of the County of
Hawkins and State of Tennessee being of sound and perfect mind and memory
(blessed be God) do this 14th day of October, 1816, make and publish this
my last Will & Testament in manner following, that is to say -First.
I give and bequeath unto my son Jacob Karnes a certain tract and
parcel of land lying in the upper end of the tract of land whereon I now
live, bounded as follows: Beginning at Crocketts Creek & running with
the middle fence between where Jacob Moore now lives and the above
mentioned Jacob Karnes. Thence to the foot of the hill that the
meeting house stands on. Thence along the foot of said hill to the Meeting
House spring. Thence to the S.E. corner of a field opposite thereto on
the north side of the road. Thence a straight line to run with the eastern
fence of said field and to con-tinue beyond it to said George Karnes'
line at the foot of Cany Creek Knobs. Thence with his land northeastwardly
to Daniel Lipes' line. Thence with his line to ? Howery's
line. Thence along said boundary westwardly as far as it is from the beginning
at the creek to Karnes' Cedar corner & from thence a straight
line to the beginning, to him and his heirs forever. Secondly. I give and
bequeath to my son George Karnes a certain tract of land lying in
the lower end of the tract of land whereon I now live. Beginning on the
southeast boundary of my land at a point that will include the improvement
where Isaac Barger tended on the south side of the creek. Thence a straight
line crossing said creek to Moore's fence, from thence to the middle fence
between myself & the said Moore to a cherry tree, then follow the middle
fence about half way up the hill, then corner and run straight across the
field to the fence that runs by the Grave Yard. Then follow that fence
to a flat place near the spring branch. Thence a straight line to run so
as to take two acres of the lower end of my lower field on tine north side
of the road to my back line. Thence along my line to George Karnes'
line. Thence along his line to the river. Thence up the river to where
my southern boundary strikes the same. Thence with my boundary to the beginning,
to him and his heirs forever. Thirdly. I give and bequeath to my loving
wife Elizabeth the use of half the balance of my land during her
life or widowhood. Fourthly. I give and bequeath to my son Andrew Karnes
all the balance of my land subject to the use above mentioned, bounded
as follows: Beginning at the before mentioned George Karnes' beginning
corner in my southern boundary & running thence along along the different
lines of this land, be-queathed to my son George to my line at the
foot of Cany Creek Knobs, thence with my line along the foot of said knobs
to the line of the land herein- before bequeathed to my son Jacob Karnes.
Thence along the lines of the land bequeathed to my son Jacob to my southern
boundary. Thence along the same westwardly to the beginning, to him and
his heirs forever. Fifthly. I give and bequeath one third part of all my
movable property to my wife Elizabeth, to her and her heirs forever.
Sixthly. I give and bequeath to my daughter Elizabeth Wetty the
sum of $350.00 in specie, to her and her heirs forever. Seventhly. I give
& bequeath all the residue of my personal Estate to my three sons,
Jacob, George & Andrew, divided equally, share and share alike.
Eightly. I give and bequeath to my son William Karnes the sun of
one dollar to be levied out of my personal estate. Ninthly. I have heretofore
advanced to my son John his full equitable share, therefore I make
no further provision for him. Tenthly. I do hereby make and ordain my son
Jacob Karnes Executor of this my last Will and Testament. In witness
whereof I the said George Karnes, Senior have to this my last Will
& Testament set my hand & seal the day and year above written.
George Karnes (seal)
Signed sealed published & declared by the said George Karnes,
Senior the Testator as his last Will & Testament in the presence of
us who were present at the tine of signing & sealing thereof. George
H. Etter Daniel Howry
Page 279
Dated: Nov. 16, 1819
In the Name of God, Amen. I Judith Kenner of the County of Hawkins
& State of Tennessee, being of sound and perfect mind and memory (blessed
be God) do this sixteenth day of November in the year of our Lord one thousand
eight hundred & nineteen, make and publish this my last Will and Testament
in manner following, that is to say. First. I give to my mother Margaret
Duguard the use or profits of all my Estate real & personal during
her life, provided nevertheless that the same shall be under the care and
management of my Executor from the time of my death and during the lifetime
of my mother. Secondly. I give and bequeath to my daughter Lucy Beverly
Winston the use of my negro girl Mary during her life, and after
the death of my daughter Lucy, I give my said negro Mary
and Mary's increase to my grand daughter Margaret Winston,
to her and her heirs forever. Thirdly. I give and bequeath to my son Lawrence
Sterns Kenner one horse, one bed and furniture, and one Beaufat. Fourthly.
I give and bequeath to my daughter Judith Cardin one bed and furniture.
Fifthly. I give and bequeath to my daughters Lucy Beverly Winston
and Judith Cardin all my wearing apparel to be equally divided.
Sixthly. I give to my grandson William Winston Kenner the tract
of land whereon I now live containing 110 acres by estimation, be the same
more or less, to him and his heirs forever. Seventhly. I give and bequeath
to my grandson Roaham Beverly Kenner my negro girl Eliza
and her increase, to him and his heirs forever. Eighthly. I give and bequeath
the residue of my estate real and personal to my grand children, equally
divided, share and share alike. Lastly. I hereby make and ordain my worthey
friend William Simpson of Rogersville Executor of this my last Will
& Testament, In witness whereof I the said Judith Kenner have
to this my last Will & Testament set my hand & seal the day and
year above written.
Judith Kenner (seal)
Hezekiah Hamblen George McCollough
Page 280
Dated: Sept. 21, 1820
State of Tennessee Hawkins County
In the Name of God, Amen. I Robert Kyle of the County of Hawkins
and State of Tennessee, being indisposed, but of sound mind and memory
& calling to mind the mortality of life & that it is ap-pointed
once for all men to die, do make, ordain and declare this my last Will
& Testament, revoking all others by me heretofore made, that is to
say: First. I recommend my soul unto the hands of God who gave it and my
body to a decent Christian burial, and after the expense of the same are
defrayed, I give and bequeath the residue of my Estate, goods & chattels
of which it hath pleased God to bless me as follows: I will & bequeath
to my loving wife Leah Kyle, formerly Leah Brooks the following
property to her use during her life, to wit: My negro fellow named Mingo
and his wife Sarah with Bass and a negro girl called Betty,
daughter of Comfort with their increase if any there be, also my
wagon and three horses to wit: The gray horse, a horse called Doctor and
a sorrel horse called Rock, Five cows and calves, two of the best of my
steers, together with two or three of my young steers & heifers with
as many of my hogs as she may think proper to take. Three beds & furniture,
one Table with as much kitchen furniture as may be necessary for her use,
together with as much corn, wheat, rye, oats &c as may be necessary
for her support for one year. All of which my wife is to have the benefit
of during her natural life & at her death, Mingo and his wife
to be valued together by my Exec's hereafter to be named and if Mingo
and Sarah choose any of my four Legatees as a master, to wit: William
Kyle, the heirs of John Maples, the heirs of William Simms
and heirs of William McCarty But the mother of Maples heirs
and the mother of the Simms heirs to have the use of said parts
during their natural lives and they are willing to take them at valuation,
then and in that case the Legatees that Mingo and wife choose as
master, if he thinks proper to take at their said valuation as above, then
said Legatee to pay the rest of the Legatees their several proportions
of said valuation. But if Mingo and wife choose any other person
for master and that person is willing to take them at their valuation and
pays the Legatees their respective shares, then and in that case the Legatees
are bound to receive the same, but if neither the Legatees nor any other
person chosen by Mingo and wife for master, then will not take them,
then and in that case Mingo & wife are to be ballotted for by
the four Legatees above named and which ever draws them to pay the other
three their respective shares of valuation, and the negro girl called Betty
willed to my wife during her life-her and her in-crease if any there be-to
go to my two grandsons Gale and William Kyle, sons of Thomas
Kyle, dec'd & the other negro Bass willed to my wife during
her natural life, I wish at her death to be valued by my Executors and
to be drawn for by the following Legatees or by the Executors for then:
McCarty heirs, Polly Maples Patty Maples and William Kyle.
Whichever one draws him to pay the rest their respective shares of said
valuation, share and share alike. But if drawn by Polly Maples or
Patty Maples, at their death to descend to their children which
they now have or may have by their husbands. The remainder of said property
willed to my wife, at her death to be sold & proceeds equally divided
among the above named heirs, including my son Absalom Kyle also.
Item. 2. I do further will to my grandson William Kyle who now lives
with me one negro girl called Sallie, child of Kate, to him
and his heirs forever. Item 3. I give & bequeath to my grand daughter
Nancy Wilson, formerly Nancy Kyle, daughter of Robert
Kyle, dec'd, my negro boy Abraham with Mary daughter
of Comfort, to her and her heirs forever, provided Sam'l Wilson,
husband of Nancy receipt my heirs in full for all the demands they
may have on me as Administrator of Robert Kyle, dec'd. Item 4. For
and in consideration of the dutiful and faithful services to me rendered
for a number of years by my three slaves, Babtit, Fell and Hattie,
Fell's wife, it is my will and desire that at my death they be set
at perfect liberty and no longer be held in servitude by my heirs or any
other person whatsoever. Item 5. It is my further will and desire that
my two grandsons, Gale and William Kyle, sons of Thomas
Kyle, dec'd, have the tract of land whereon my son Absalom,
now lives after the death of my wife Leah, but my wife to have a
life estate in and to the same. Also, I wish said two grandsons to have
the following negroes, to wit: My negro fellow Jack, my negro girl
Comfort, her young child named Jenny. To them and their heirs
forever, and to the above named Gale Kyle, I will my rifle gun,
to him and his heirs... Item 6. It is further my desire that the residue
of my negroes, to wit: Kate with her four children-Violet, Tom,
Betty and Nancy-together with Harry be divided into four
equal lots as near as may be by my Executors, to be valued by the sane
and drawn by them in four lots: One lot for Polly Maples, and one
lot each for Patty Maples, McCarty heirs and William Kyle,
and if lots not be equally divided, the lot or lots of greater value to
pay the lot or lots of lesser value the difference in money. Item 7. It
is my desire that my son Absalom Kyle have my set of black- smith
tools with my writing desk, to him and his heirs forever. Item 8. I further
will & desire that all the residue of my Estate of every denomination
not hereby disposed of be sold by my Executors and the proceeds equally
divided among the following heirs, to wit: McCarty heirs, one share
and one share each to Polly Maples, William Kyle, Absalom, Kyle.
Item 9. I wish it to be expressly understood to be my will that all the
estate devised by this will to Polly Maples and her heirs and Patty
Maples and her heirs is to go to the said Polly & Patty
during their natural lives, then to descend to all their children equally.
Item 10. It is further my desire and wish & I do hereby constitute
& appoint my beloved son Absalom Kyle and my true & trusty
friends John Young and William Hord my Executors to this
my last Will & Testament & do hereby revoke all others heretofore
by me made. In witness whereof I Robert Kyle have hereunto set my
hand and affixed my seal This 21st day of September in the Year of our
Lord, 1820.
Robert x Kyle (seal)
Signed, sealed & acknowledged in the presence of us: Cleon Moore,
John Brooks & Thomas Cox
Page 282
Dated: February 13, 1829
In the Name of God, Amen. I Judith Kenner of Hawkins County, State
of Tennessee, being in perfect health of body, of sound and disposing mind
and memory and understanding, considering the certainty of death and the
uncertainty of the time thereof, and being desirous to settle my worldly
affairs and thereby be the better prepared to leave this world when it
shall please God to call me hence, do therefore make and publish this my
last Will & Testament in manner and form following, that is to say:
I give and devise to my two grandsons Rodham Kenner and William
W. Kenner all my land containing about 300 acres, their heirs and assigns
in fee simple, to be equally divided when William W. Kenner comes
of age. I give and bequeath unto my said grandsons William W. Kenner
and Rodham Kenner one negro woman called Eliza together with
her offspring, equally divided, when William W. Kenner cones of
age. I give and bequeath unto my said grandson Rodham Kenner my
walking cane, marked on the head with Rodham Kenner, also my silver
table spoons. I give and bequeath unto my said grandson William W. Kenner
my silver watch, also I give and bequeath unto the said William
W. Kenner my silver Teaspoons. It is my desire that my negro man called
Martin shall be sold and one half of the money to be put in the
hands of my grandson William 0.Winston for the special benefit of
his mother, my daughter Lucy, and the other half to be equally divided
between my two grandsons Columbus Carden and Joseph Carden,
children of my daughter Judith Carden, to be put out on interest
till Joseph comes of age. In case one of them should die, the whole
of said half to go to the survivor. I give and bequeath unto all my grand
children all my claims and interests in the State of Virginia, to be equally
divided between them, share and share alike whenever settled. I give and
bequeath unto my grand daughter Beverly J. Carden the bed and bed
furniture on which I lay. It is my desire that my negroes called John,
Nann & Caroline shall re-main on the place whereon I now live,
that all my stock and household furniture and farming utensils shall be
kept together and nothing sold till the time herein after mentioned, and
it is my desire that Lucy Winston my daughter shall take possession
& live on the place & the house whereon & wherein I now reside
till William W. Kenner comes of age or so long as my said daughter
Lucy sees fit to reside on said place till the coming of age of
said William W. Kenner, it is also my desire that my negro woman
Eliza with her children shall remain on the said place, together
with John, Nann & Caroline and assist in making provisions for
my two grandsons Rodham Kenner and William W. Kenner and
my daughter Lucy Winston till William W. Kenner comes of
age, and it is my desire that all things be kept together on said place
by my daughter Lucy just in the situation as I leave them till William
W. Kenner comes of age, and then my old negroes John, Nann &
Caroline are to always find a home on the place whereon I now live
or live with whomsoever of my daughters or grand children they see fit,
that when said William comes of age it is my desire that all my
stock and household furniture be sold and out of the proceeds of said sale,
I give and bequeath unto my grand daughter Margaret Findley $60.00,
unto my grandson John G. Winston $60.00 & unto my grandson Columbus
Carden $60.00, and after paying over the said sums, I give and bequeath
unto my daughters Lucy Winston & Judith Carden the residue of
said proceeds. And lastly, I do hereby constitute and appoint William
Simpson to be the Executor of this my last Will & Testament, revoking
and annulling all former Wills by me heretofore made, ratifying & confirming
this and none other to be my last Will & Testament. In testimony whereof
I have hereunto set my hand & affixed my seal. This 13th day of February
in the year of our Lord, one thousand eight hundred & twenty nine.
Judith Kenner (seal)
Signed, sealed, published & declared by Judith Kenner the above
named Testator as & for her last Will & Testament in the presence
of us who at her request in her presence & in the presence of each
-other have subscribed our names as witnesses thereto. 0. Rice G. W.
Huntsman
Page 284
Dated: April 11, 1831
State of Tennessee, Hawkins County: To all whom these presents may come,
Greeting: I Andrew King, in the name of God, Amen. Being sound in
memory but frail in body, do hereby make and ardane this my last Will &
Testament. First of all, my desire is to be decently buried and my estate
pay the ex-penses of the same, and next, my will is that all my just debts
be paid. First. I give to my beloved wife Barbara the third of all
the land I cleared on the plantation where I now live, including meadows
and orchards, and I give to my beloved wife a horse and saddle to be valued
to one hundred dollars. And it is my will that she is to have my dwelling
house with all my buildings, to her only proper use and also too beds and
furniture, the loom and all pertaining to it and wheel, kitchen cupboard
with all her pewter and one pot, too pair of pot hooks, one oven and lid,
one frying pan, one kettle and one pot rack, tongs and shovel and dog irons,
smoothing iron, table and clevis and swingletree, one pair of chain gears
and too cows, fore sheep, six head of hogs - one of then a breeding sow,
also one year's provision for herself and her stock, and my will is that
all her property that is not perishable to be taken care of A sold and
equally divided between my children that I gave no land, to her only proper
use during her natural life. Secondly. I give and bequeath to my son Jacob
King's heirs a certain tract of land in Hawkins County on the waters
of Hunnicutt's Creek, lying on the dry fork bounded as follows: Beginning
on an elm and ash then due south 50 poles to a stake then west 190 poles
to a white oak corner, then due north 20 poles to a stake on Walker's line,
then due east to the beginning, con-taining 60 acres, be the same more
or less. And my will is that his heirs, when they become of age to sell
the land and equally divide the amount, to their only proper use forever.
And I hereby give and bequeath to my son Adam King's wife five dollars
to be paid out of my estate, and that is all I will to her. Likewise to
Adam King's son Andy, I give a horse to be valued at $25.00
and saddle at $10.00, and to his daughter when she becomes to be of age,
one bedstead and card, one under bed and one feather bed, two sheets, one
bolster and case, one blanket, one quilt, one white counterpin and one
good calico dress for her own proper use forever, and I hereby give and
bequeath to my son James King a certain tract of land lying in the
County of Hawkins on the dry fork of Hunnicutt 's Creek. Beginning on a
stone, then west 190 poles to a white oak corner. Then due south 170 poles
to a dogwood and poplar corner. Then due east to a double mulberry, then
south 80 poles to a white oak, then east 148 poles to a stake, then north
222 poles to the beginning, containing 247 acres more or less for his use
after his mother and father decease. And I give and bequeath to my daughter
Fanny King a certain tract of land lying in the County of Hawkins
on the waters of Hunnicutt's Creek, beginning on a post oak and white oak
corner, then due south 170 poles to a dogwood and poplar corner, then due
south 170 poles to a dogwood and poplar corner. Then due west 88 poles
to a stake. Thence due north 170 poles to a pine corner. Then due east
88 (poles?) to the begin-ning, containing 90 acres more or less, for her
and her children after her death. And she shall have her two beds and her
furniture that I have given her for her only proper use forever. And I
hereby will to my son Charles King a (tract) parcel of land lying
in the County of Hawkins on the north side of Holston River. Beginning
on an elm and sugartree on the bank of the Holston River. Then running
down said river 52 poles to a black gum and locust on the bank. Then north
42 degrees, east 32 poles to a white oak corner. Then the same course to
the water of the hollow, then with the meanders of the branch to Pain's
Grant to a white oak corner on Dazeal's entry. Then with s'd entry line
north 54 degrees east 70 poles to a white oak corner. Then with s'd line
north 30 degrees, east 100 poles to a white oak and dogwood corner on said
line. Then south 80 degrees, east 46 poles to two dogwoods. Then a direct
line to the ridge to where I sold to McCanna, then along the conditional
line with McCanna to the old line which comes up from the river, then back
to a stake in the field. Then south 150 poles to the beginning down the
river to the hollow again and the said Charles King, if he sells
the land is to pay $75.00 out of the price to me, his father, and the rest
to his only proper use forever. And I give to my daughter Elizabeth
out of my property so much as will make her equal with the rest of my daughters,
for her only proper use forever. And I give and bequeath to my daughter
Sary and her heirs after her death so much of my loos property as
will make her equal with the rest of my daughter, and if she can give good
security after my death, she shall have the money without paying the lawful
interest to her only proper use forever. And my will is that 50 acres out
of my last grant to be at the highest bidders and the money to make all
the daughters equal. In witness whereof I the said Andrew King have
hereunto set my hand and seal. This eleventh day of April in the Year of
our Lord One thousand eight hundred and thirty one. Signed in the presence
of the witnesses: Test: John Reynolds William White C. H. King
Andrew x King (seal) (his mark)
Page 287
Dated: Feb. 10, 1832 [O d Book A, P. 117]
In the name of God, Amen. I Elijah Kincheloe of the County of Hawkins
and State of Tennessee, being for some time past in a declining state of
health though of sound mind and memory, Blessed be the Almighty God for
his mercies have this 10th day of February, 1832, do make and publish this
my last Will & Testament in writing. First, I desire all my just debts
to be punctually paid and my body to have a plain and decent burial after
my decease. And concerning such worldly goods as it hath pleased the Almighty
to bestow on me, I dispose of in the following manner, to wit: Item 1st.
I give to my wife Polly Kincheloe two feather beds and their furniture
weighing 25 pounds each, two cows and calves, and the bureau she had at
our intermarriage. Item 2nd. I do lend to my wife during the time she remains
my widow her first choice of two of my horse beasts, one side saddle, and
bridle claimed by her, my wagon and four pair of gears, all the sheep I
own, two sows and pigs, six of the largest hogs, one folding leaf table,
two small tables, one dozen chairs, one cupboard and the furniture belonging
to the cupboard, one yoke of oxen, all the geese, two spinning wheels,
four pair of bedsteads, one clock, one sugar chest, one brass kettle, one
candle stand, one large kettle, two ovens and lids, two pots, one shovel
and tongs, one loon, one fan to clean grain, two plows, two axes, three
hoes, one scythe and cradle one mowing scythe, two sickles, one iron tooth
harrow, two cows, two iron wedges, one negro men named Jack, one
negro woman named Rose. At my wife's death or marriage, the above
named property lent to my wife is to fall to my three youngest children,
and the two negroes Jack & Rose is to fall to the same, Margaret,
Sarah and James B. Kincheloe, equally divided. And if either
of them should die without a lawful heir of their body, then their property
to fall to the above named living children and their lawful heirs. Item
3rd. I also lend to my wife during the time she remains my widow the tract
of land I now live on 157 acres 80 poles, which I purchased of James
Surgoine and a small lot joining said land and joining the town lots
of Surgoinesville At my wife's death or marriage I give the land lent to
my wife to my youngest son James B., and he is to have the half
of the land lent to my wife Polly when he arrives at the age of
20, and I also give him the tract of land I bought of Benjamin Thurman
and my silver watch and gun, and should he die without a lawful child,
then my two daughters Margaret and Sarah Kincheloe to be
his heir, and should Margaret or Sarah die without a lawful
child, then the survivor of the three children to inherit all the property
above-named. Item 4th. I give my daughter Margaret one negro girl
named Malinda and a bed - the weight 30 pounds - the furniture for
said bed also to go with it. Item 5th. I give to my daughter Sarah
a negro girl named Liza and a bed to weigh 30 pounds and furniture
to said bed, and also $100.00 to her and her lawful heirs of her body,
and in case of the death of either daughter without a lawful child, the
other daughter to have the property given to both, and in case of the death
of both without a lawful child, the property to go to my son James B.
I also give to my two daughters Margaret and Sarah a bureau
to be worth $15.00 apiece, and side saddle and bridle to be worth $18.00
apiece. Item 6th. It is my desire that my wife have the care of her own
children and their property until they come of age, and the expense of
Sarah and James' education to come from the proceeds of their
land left to them, and their mother to board them gratis -and James
to have a good English Education. Item 7th. My three sons, Thomas 0.,
John and George W. Kincheloe have been provided for heretofore.
I therefore give them one dollar each. Item 8th. My daughter Polly has
been provided for heretofore, I therefore now give her one dollar. Item
9th. My daughter Elizabeth has been provided for heretofore, I therefore
give her one dollar and a bureau which she claims at my house. Item 10th.
My daughter Nancy having been provided for heretofore, I therefore
give her a bureau worth $15.00 and a side saddle and bridle worth $18.00.
Item 11th. My daughters Louisa and Rachael have been provided
for heretofore as my son John Kincheloe holds an obligation on me
for their portion. I give each of them beside a bureau worth $15.00 a side
saddle worth $18.00 each with the bridles. Item 12th. It is my desire that
the negro I own named Gideon go to satisfy the obligation which
my son John holds on me for the benefit of Louisa and Rachael,
and that the balance of the obligation be filled by the debts now due me
by Mrs. Surgoine, John A. Rogers and others. Item. 13th. It is my
desire that if there can be money raised to satisfy the last named obligation
which my son John holds on me.. .and to satisfy other debts from
me, that my wife have Iceham during her widowhood, and then he fall
to my son James. But if there cannot be money enough collected from
them that owes me for the above purpose, I desire that Iceham be
sold to satisfy the obligation and any other debts that may be due from
me. Item 14th. It is my desire that if either of my daughters, Elizabeth,
Nancy Louisa or Rachael should die without a lawful issue, that
the property given them fall to the survivors of them. Item 15th. I desire
all my books to be equally divided among my wife and children and each
of them to have a Bible bought for them. Item 16th. It is my desire that
my wife take charge of Old Phillis and take care of her. Item 17th.
All the property not herein otherwise disposed of to be sold and the proceeds
together with what debts may be owing me at the payment of all my just
debts and necessary expenses, if any is left, to be equally divided between
my six single daughters. 18th. I do appoint my beloved wife Polly Kincheloe
my Executrix of this my last will and testament in writing and wish
her to enter on the duties of her appointment without giving security.
In testimony whereof I the said Lijah Kincheloe Testator have hereunto
set my hand and affixed my seal this day and date above written.
Lijah Kincheloe (seal)
Signed, sealed and published in presence of us who are subscribing witnesses
thereto the date above written. "Silver watch and gun" interlined
before signed in 48th line.
Jacob Barb Johnson Lacy William Lyons Robert D. Gray [Old Book A,
p. 120] Be it remembered that on this 4th day of February, 1833, I, Lijah
Kincheloe of the County of Hawkins, State of Tennessee, remaining still
of sound mind and memory do make the following additions to my last Will
& Testament in writing bearing date of 10 Feb., 1832. That is, I give
to my daughters Louisa and Rachael my negro boy Gideon
and my negro girl Malinda heretofore given to my daughter Margaret,
which two negroes to go in full discharge of the obligation that my son
John holds on me for the benefit of my two daughters, and instead of
giving Malinda to my daughter Margaret, I desire a negro
shall be purchased for her with the same funds that was to make the purchase
for Louisa & Rachael ..if there be a deficiency as satisfied
in my will, that Jack be sold instead of Isham. If negro
Rose shall outlive my wife Polly that she be liberated and
set free, and should said Rose have a child or children, they are
to go to my daughters Margaret and Sarah. And further to
conclude: It is my desire that Nathan Gray of Granger County, together
with my wife be Executors of this my last Will & Testament in writing,
In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand & seal the day &
date above written. It is my wish that my Executors do proceed to the execution
of this my last will without giving security.
Lijah Kincheloe (seal)
In presence of us: J. G. Miller, C. G. Miller, A. Sanders
Page 291
Dated: Sept. 8, 1835
I, Malinda Kenner of Hawkins County, State of Tennessee, being of
sound mind and memory, do make this my last Will & Testament.. .I direct
that my body be decently buried by my Executors.. .that all my just debts
should be paid by them out of my Estate. I give to my son James
two negro girls Sidney and Laura and their increase during
his life for his support and maintenance. And whereas my son James was
born of weak mind so much so that he is not capable of taking care of himself
or the property I leave to him for life f or his support. It is my desire
that my son Rodham shall take James and the property I leave
to him for life and take care of him and treat him with tender kindness
as long as James may live, and at his death if Rodham should
do so, I then give and bequeath unto my son Rodham the two negro
girls Sidney & Laura and their increase with what other property
I may leave to James for life Should Rodham die before James,
I then revoke the bequeath made to Rodham and request that my son-in-law
George Savage take James and the property left to him during
his life, and treat him with tender kindness suitable to his unhappy situation,
then and in that case I give the property.. .unto my son-in-law George
Savage to him & his heirs for their trouble of taking care of James.
But should my son-in-law George Savage die before James,
then and in that case, I revoke and disannul the bequeath to my son-in-law.
But if James and myself should die before Rodham, it is then
my will that Rodham shall keep the two negroes, Sidney and
Laura and their increase at their value put on by my Executors,
and the money be equally divided between all my children... It is my will
and desire that my old negro woman Rachael should be set free, and
as far as I have the power, I do hereby emancipate and set free my negro
woman Rachael and give to her one cow and calf and one year's provision
to be laid off by my Executors. And all the rest of my Estate I leave to
James for life for his support, and at his death my will is that
it shall go as my will directs my two negro girls to go. I hereby appoint
my two friends Edwin Hamblen and Richard Mitchell Executors...
In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed my seal this
8th day of September, 1835.
(her mark) Malinda x Kenner (seal)
Signed, sealed published and declared by Malinda Kenner as her last
Will and Testament in presence of us: Jas. Bradley & W. B. Mitchell
(Abstracted)
Page 292
Dated: March 18, 1842
Rec'd for Record June 5, 1848
State of Tennessee, Hawkins County. In the Name of God, Amen. I, Barbary
King, being of sound mind and disposing memory.. .wish now to dispose
of my property, such as it has pleased God to bless ma with. I, Barbary
King, 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. 1st. I
direct that all my funeral expenses and all my just debts be paid as soon
after my death as possible out of any money I may die possessed of or may
first come into the hands of my Executor. 2nd. I will that my cupboard
and all the cupboard ware, my clock and my wind mill, my two pots and a
baker, and one skillet, one bed and bed covers, one pair of steelyards
and wire sifter, my gray mare, my red and white pided cow. I have in my
possession three notes of hand, one on Charles Coffin for $30.00
and interest, one on Rodham Chesnutt for $19.00 and interest, one
on John Barnett for $12.00 and interest. 3rd. After my decease I
want my Executor to sell all of the above named property for cash, and
also all of my property (that I die owning ) and cause to be collected
the three notes above mentioned, and out of the money arising, pay it to
my children as I shall direct: First. I will to my son Adam King
or heirs one dollar. 2nd, 3rd and 4th: To my son Charles King; to
my son Jacob King or his heirs; to my son James King, to
each one dollar and no more. 5th. I will to my daughter Fanny Arnott
one dollar and no more. 6th. I will to my two daughters Sarah Beel
and Elizabeth Garrison all the balance of money arising from the
sale of my property and notes as soon after my decease as possible. 7th
and last. I will that my neighbor David Reynolds be my Executor
and manage my affairs. In witness whereof I do to this my last will set
my hand and seal This 18th day of March, 1842.
Barbary x King (seal) (her mark)
Signed sealed and published in our presence and we have subscribed our
names hereto in the presence of the Testator, 18th March, 1842. Attest:
Wm. Smith, Sr., David Reynolds
Page 293
Dated: Jan. 13,1845
Proven: Mar. 6, 1848
A written Will and Testament. I William Keele 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 debts be paid as soon after my death as possible out of any
money that I may die possessed of or may first cone into the hands of my
Executors. Secondly. I sell my son Anthony B. Keele all the lands
and possessions that I am seized and possessed of at this time for the
sum of $1,200.00. Six hundred dollars to me in hand paid and the said A.
B. Keele to have one half of the lands in possession from this date,
and six hundred dollars at my death and the death of my wife Livy Ann,
and the said A. B. Keele to have all my lands and possession. Thirdly.
I bequeath to my two sons for their interest in my estate, to A. B.
Keele 50 acres of land and Jesse Keele, 80 acres. Fourthly.
All the personal property and moneys that is left at my death and the death
of my wife Livy Ann is to be equally divided amongst my daughters
Elizabeth Coffman, Mary Eavin, Rachael Deriaux, Heneretta Bailey, Matilda
Weams, Sibbriney Carter. Fifthly. My negro man named Archabel shall
be emancipated and set at perfect liberty at our deaths. Lastly. I do hereby
nominate and appoint my two sons Jesse Keele and A. B. Keele
my Executors. In witness whereof I do to this my will set my hand and seal
this 13 January, 1845.
William x Keele (seal)(his mark)
Signed sealed and published in our presence and we have subscribed our
names hereto in the presence of the Testator. This date above written.
John Pogue & Jacob Smith
Page 294
Dated: June 15, 1846
State of Tennessee, Hawkins County, June 15, 1846. In the Name of God,
Amen. I John Kirkpatrick of the County & State above mentioned
do make and publish this my last Will and Testament in the following manner
Viz: Being called to mind the uncertainty of life and the true certainty
of death, and through the kindness of Providence having enabled me and
family to accumulate some property both real and personal to which I feel
to thank God for His Kindness toward me &c. Being somewhat afflicted
in body but sound in mind and memory to dispose of such of my worldly substance
as it has pleased God to bless me with. First. My will is that as soon
after my decease as possible, my administrators or the survivors of them
to pay all my just debts and funeral expenses out of the proceeds of the
sale of my perishable property. Second. I give to my son David Kirkpatrick
a certain portion of my land, including my mills and all the buildings
thereon. Beginning at or near Nathan Vernon's spring on my line
in the creek, thence down the creek as it meanders to a bend in the creek,
thence across a strip of rising ground by where Thomas Case's grave
is to the creek and across the line of said tract of ground, thence running
with the said line to where it cones to the creek at the beginning, to
include all the land in that boundary, to have full privilege to keep up
his mill dam at or near the same place it stands at this time, and.. .David
shall at all times give full privilege for the water to be conveyed from
the spring through the dam in logs for the use of those who may occupy
the house where I now live, to all intents and purposes that it now is
used. Third. To my sons, Hugh and James Kirkpatrick the balance
of my land to be divided between them equally, and that the said Hugh
and James are to support and maintain their mother Judith Kirkpatrick
during her widowhood, and my wife to have privilege to live in the
dwelling where she now lives during the same period above mentioned. Should
my wife Judith ever marry after my decease, I desire and my will
is for her to have $50.00 out of the proceeds of the sale of the perishable
property of my Estate. Fourth. My son David is to pay to Hugh
and James Kirkpatrick $150.00 twelve months after my decease, to
be paid in payments of $50.00 per year. Fifth. Should there be any negroes
or money on hand after my decease, I desire that it all be equally divided
between my four children, Viz: Eliza Chesnutt, Hugh, James and David
Kirkpatrick, also the perishable property or the proceeds thereof be
also equally divided between my children or my heirs as above mentioned.
In witness whereof I do to this my last Will & Testament set my hand
and seal This 22nd day of June, 1846.
John Kirkpatrick (seal)
Signed sealed and published in our presence and we have subscribed our
names hereto in the presence of the Testator. This 22nd day of June in
the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and forty six. Attest:
Wm. Smith, William Tharp
Now, I John Kirkpatrick having heretofore made my last Will and Testament, do make and declare this as a codicil thereto, to wit: First. I desire that a change be made in my former will and that is that Richard Chesnutt and his wife Eliza have $250.00 out of my Estate and no more, also my wife Judith to have one good feather bed and good furniture for the same &c. It is my desire that this codicil be attached to and constitute a part of my will to all intents and purposes whatsoever. In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my name and affixed my seal hereunto This 5th day of January, 1848.
John Kirkpatrick( seal )
Attest: Wm. Smith & William Tharp
Page 45
That my negro boy name Sam be free and all my other property be
sold at public sale and be applied to public school, and I want to be buried
on my own land near the poplar on the hill that I had cut down (near the
Meeting House), as I do not want to be buried as a beggar. Mrs. David
Laughmiller adds after his debts were paid the balance to be give to
the public school (or this district).
Given under our hands this 13th day of April A.D. 1833
John J. Brown David Laughmiller
Page 44
Dated: December 15, 1831
In the Name of God, Amen. I, Moses Ball of the County of Hawkins
and State of Tennessee, being weak in body but being in perfect mind and
memory, thanks be given unto God. Calling to mind the mortality of my body
and knowing that it is appointed for all men once to die, do make and ordain
this instrument of writing to be my last Will and Testament. That is to
say: First of all, I give and recommend my soul in the hand of Almighty
God that gave it and my body I recommend to the Earth to be buried at the
discretion of my Executors hereinafter appointed, nothing doubting but
at the general resurrection, I shall receive the same again by the mighty
power of God, and as touching such worldly Estate wherewith it has pleased
God to bless me in this life: First. I give and bequeath to my son Spencer
Ball one dollar out of my estate and no more. Secondly. I give and
bequeath to my son Robb Ball one dollar out of my estate. Thirdly.
I give and devise to my son Bennett Ball a certain parcel of land
lying and being between my sons William and Thomas Ball,
and from the southern boundary of my land and running northward to where
the Beech Creek road runs through my land and no further. And it is my
further will and desire that if my wife Molly shall have the rent
of the said land that I have devised to my son Bennett during her
natural life for her support.
Fourthly. I give and devise to my grandson Jonathan Ball a certain described parcel of land lying on the north side of the Beech Creek road and lying between the said William and Thomas Ball land and including my apple orchard and running to the northern boundary of my land. And it is my further will and desire that my Executor after my decease shall rent said parcel of land and orchard and the money or property arising from said rent to pay for the education of my grandson Jonathan Ball. And it is my further will and desire that my said grandson Jonathan Ball shall have a horse, saddle and bridle out of my Estate.
Fifthly. I give and bequeath to my well beloved wife Molly all the residue of my personal estate and money that is owing to me during her natural life.
Sixthly. It is my further will and desire after my wife's decease, the
property--if any--is to be sold, except my wearing clothes, and the plank
that is in my loft and my books. The planks to remain where they are, my
wearing clothes and books to be divided equally between my children as
the can (sic), and the money arising from said sale to be equally divided
between my daughters, ______ McDaniel, Nancy Warren, Polly Ball, Sibby
Long and Sarah Long's children and my grandson Jonathan Ball
or their heirs. There was $32.00 that I paid for William McDaniel
in part pay(ment) for said McDaniel's wagon, $16.00 of that, said
William Mcdaniel was to pay John K. Long who married with
my daughter Sibby. If John K. Long has received that amount,
they are to settle with my executor. I constitute and appoint my sons Wesley
Ball and Thomas Ball my Executors of this my last Will and Testament,
to manage my estate, real and personal, as they think best. I hereby utterly
revoke and disannul all and every other former testament, wills, legacies
before mentioned, willed...bequeathed, ratifying and confirming this and
no other to be my last Will and Testament. In witness whereof I hereeunto
set my hand and seal this fifteenth Day of December in the year of our
Lord, One thousand eight hundred and thirty-one.
Moses Ball (seal)
Attest: Reuben Bernard John Ball Jesse Ball James Tunnell
Return
to Tennessee Genealogy Page
You are the 12012visitor to this page since March 14, 1998.
This page is copyrighted © 1998 by Jackie Robinson All Rights Reserved. This information may be used by libraries and genealogical societies, however, commercial use of this information is strictly prohibited without prior permission. If copied, this copyright notice must appear with the information.
Server space for the Hawkins County project is provided through the generosity of Rootsweb Genealogical Data Cooperative.
This page was last updated Thursday, 23-Sep-2004 02:24:24 MDT