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Chatham County NCGenWeb

Chatham Wills Extracted by Sue Ashby - In Alphabetical Order 
WILLS    A - B

A


Chatham County Record of Estates
1782-1759, Vol. 1, pg. 27, 28
NC State Archives Film # C.022.5001

Will of William Allen, 30 March, 1786

In the name of god amen I William Allen of the county of Chatham being of sound & perfect mind and memory blessed be god do this Thirtyeth Day
of March In the year of our Lord seventeen hundred and eighty six make and publish this my last will and Testament in manner following that is
to say -
First I lend unto my loving wife Mary Allen during her natural life, James, Jude, Gin, & Rachel, oe 'bed and furniture Two Big mares one
Roan Horse & one Bay Horse my Stock of Hogs & Cattle my Kitchen furniture and the Land and plantation whereon I now live and at her
Death the land to disend to my son John allen his Heirs and assigns forever the Negroes & & ( etc., etc.,) to be equally divided Between my
son John and Daughter Betsey Allen Shear and Shear alike & to their heirs & assigns forever
Item I give and bequeath unto my son John Allen Negroe man Lightfoot Fran Ben Phillis and Dew? and the little sorrel mare one Bed and
furniture one Rifle gun one saddle and Bridle to him and his Heirs forever
Item I give and bequeath unto my Daughter Betsey Negroe Hampton, Hannah, Luce and Rose one feather Bed and furniture and the remaining
part of my Estate to be sold and an Equal Division Between my said Children and to their Heirs forever -
Item I hereby constitute and appoint my friends Samuel Parke Jeduthan harper Executors of this my last Will & Testament In Witness whereof I
the said William Allen have to this my last Will and Testament set my hand and seal the Day and year above Written Declared to be his Last
Will before us...
John Morgan
Phillip Allen
Elizabeth Morgan Signed Wm. Allen {seal}
A Copy Test. John Ramsey, C.C.
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Will of William Alston - 1789 - Chatham Co., NC Wills
Vol. 1, pg. 37, 37a, 38 - NC State Archives film # C.022.50001

In the Name of God Amen, I William Alston of Chatham county in the State of North carolina being of sound mind and memory and disposition blessed
be the Almighty for the same but knowing the uncertainty of life & the certainty of death, do make declare and ordain this my last will &
testament; hereby revoking and annulling all former wills by me or for me made. Item  To the Almighty & omniscient being I resign my soul in
fervent & strong hope, that his mercy will look over any transgressions which I have committed in this life and will extend to promote my
everlasting rest in that which is to come
Secondly To my eldest son John Joseph I give & bequeath in fee forever my land lying on the hicory mountain in the said county of Chatham,
whereon he now lives containing about Three hundred & fifty seven acres, To my said son John Joseph I also give and bequeath a negroe fellow of
the name of Mustapha to possess the said land & negroe forever, Thirdly To my son William Chaney Alston I give & Bequeath a negroe boy named Ben
the son of Rachael to him & his heirs forever.
To my son Oroondates Alston, I give & bequeath in fee forever the Plantation on Sellers Creek whereon I do now live, together with a
negroe boy named Will, the son of the aforementioned Rachael Fourthly To my daughter Ann Alston I give & bequeath to her & her heirs
forever a negroe wench named Nan and all her Children, Fifthly, to my daughter Mary Ann, I give & bequeath a negro wench named Esther & her
Child named Winney to her & her heirs forever. I also to my said daughter Mary Ann in like manner give & bequeath, a Molotto girl who
nursed her, named Nanncy/Nanney  And whereas if the Almighty disposes of all things should be please to call me from this world, my two before
named daughters Ann and Mary Ann, without some provision of mine, might be from their tender ages in an helpless situation, It is my earnest
will & desire, that my dear Sister Ann Hunt Alston, the relict of my deceased brother John Alston should have the sole management & guidance
of them until they attain the age of eighteen years, or are married, for which purpose I give & bequeath unto my said Sister my Plantation, stock
of all sorts, Plantation utensils, & all the Negroes which I now possess or may possess at the time of my decease, in Warren County. To have & to
hold the same; until my youngest daughter shall attain the age of eighteen years or is married for the purpose of educating, maintaining &
clothing my said two daughters. And at the time of both being married or the youngest attaining the age of eighteen, It is my desire that the
said Plantation in Warren county be then sold and the money arising from the sale thereof, to be divided in equal parts and given unto my before
mentioned sons John Joseph, William Chaney/Chancy and Oroondates or the survivors of them. share & share alike
Sixthly To each of my before named Children, John Joseph, William Chaney, Oroondates, Ann and Mary Ann I give & bequeath all my Negroes,
Plantation, Utensils, Stock of all sorts and all my personal property of what kind or nature soever in the following manner a full proportion to
each share & share alike, to each of my sons, on the attaining the age of twenty one, of the said Negroes, plantation utensils, stock of all
sorts & other kind of personal property at the time each of them attains  the age of twenty one, and to my daughters a full proportion on
each attain the age of eighteen or being married, and in case of the death of any of my said children previous to their arriving of age, that
proportion which would have been the deceased to be divided in like manner among the surviving, It is also my will and desire that my
negroes be not hired out but continued on the plantation, and that the profits arising from them be appropriated to the discharge of my just
debts and to the support and maintenance of my three named sons, Lastly I hereby constitute and appoint my well beloved Brother Joseph John
Alston, my dear Sister Ann Hunt Alston and my loving nephew Wyllis Alston to be my executors, and executrix of this my last will &
Testament:  In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed my seal this 2nd day of August in the year of our lord one thousand
seven hundred and Eighty Nine.
Signed & Sealed in the}            Signed  Wm.  Alston  {Seal}
Presence of us the day}
above mentioned         }
James Taylor
Sam'l Guthrie            A Copy Test   John Ramsey  C.C.
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Will of James Anderson, dated 3 Aug., 1793, probated Feb., 1795
N.C. State Archives film # C.022.50001
1782-1799, Vol. 2, pg. 35-36

" In the name of God Amen, I James Anderson of Chatham county and State of North Carolina being sick and weak of body but of sound and perfect
memory and mind do make this my last will and testament in manner and form following-
First, I bequeath my soul to God who gave it not doubting but he will dispose of it as best suits his godly wisdom and my body to be buried
in a decent Christian like manner at the discretion of my Executors herein after named, and as to the worldly goods which it hath pleased
God to bless me with I will that they be disposed of in the following manner (to wit)
I give and bequeath to my dear friends Elizabeth Green, Hannah Crawley, Lucy Burwell and Anne Crawley their heirs or assigns Twenty five pounds
Virginia money each. I give and bequeath unto my sister Anne Vinable her heirs and assigns forever one Negroe girl named Nancy-
I give and bequeath unto my friends Joseph Lea his heirs or assigns my Rifle gun & shotbag-
I give and bequeath unto my mother Sarah Anderson her heirs or assigns one bay horse called Mitchel
I will that all my Lands lying in Chatham County be sold either at public or private sale at the discretion of my Executors and the money
arising from such sale after paying the above mentioned legacies be equally divided between my sisters Martha Jones, Susannah Lewis, Mary
Lewis, Lucy Holcomb and Henrietta MARTHA? Field their heirs or assigns. 
I further will that all my negroes (Nancy Excepted) together will all my other personal estate in the County of Chatham aforesaid with my
outstanding debts after paying my just debts out of the same be equally divided between my said sisters their heirs or assigns by lott or
otherwise as they may agree amongst themselves-
I give and bequeath unto my sisters Lucy Holcomb and HERITTA MARIA Field their heirs and assigns forever all my lands lying in
Mecklinburgh County in the State of Virginia be equally divided between or among them.
I give and bequeath unto my sisters Martha Jones Susannah Lewis and Mary Lewis their heirs and assigns forever all the Negroes that shall
fall to my share by the division which is to take place after my Mothers decease-
And lastly I do hereby constitute and appoint my trusty friends Joseph Lead, James Taylor, James Lewis, (Granville) Philip Holcomb (Prince
Edward County Virginia) and James Field (Pitsyvania[sic] County Virginia) Executors to this my last will and testament with full power
to make and execute deeds of conveyance to the purchaser or purchasers of the herein directed to be sold their heirs and assigns forever, and
I do hereby revoke and disanul all other or former will or wills made by me and do declare this to be my last will and testament. In witness
whereof I have hereunto set my hand [&] seal this third day of August in the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and ninety three-
Signed Sealed Published and declared by the Testator to be his last will and testament in presence of us who have hereunto subscribed our
names as witnesses in presence of the testator and of each other-
Signed James Anderson {Seal}
Jon' Thompson
Benjamin Atkinson
David Upton
Welcome (his X mark) Hodges
A copy Test. John Ramsey C.C.
Returned Feb'y Session 1795
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Chatham County Record of Estates
1782-1799, Vol. 1, pg. 21, 21 a
NC State Archives Film # C.022.5001

Will of William Ashford - 1 March, 1784

In the name of god amen this first day of March in the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred eighty four I william Ashford of the State
of North carolina and County of Chatham being very sick of Body but of perfect mind and memory thanks be to god for the same and calling to
mind the Mortality of my Body and knowing that it is appointed for all men once to Die I do make and ordain this my last Will and Testament
Viz
first of all I give and bequeath to my son John Ashford all my Land joining Edmund Woddle William Hill Agnus Harrington and John Minters
Lines which is first of all a Tract bought from Charles Clanton by Agnus Harrington by Estimation one hundred and seventy five acres be
the same more or less to his only use and behoof his heirs and assigns forever and I do hereby constitute and appoint my friend Thomas
harrington my only and sole Executor of this my last will & Testament and further I do give and bequeath unto my Daughter Sary Ashford one
Sorrell Mair branded thus MR on the near shoulder and likewise I do bequeath all the rest of my worldly good to thomas harrington which is
on bey mair branded thus HR on the shoulder and yearling colt and every other creature of any kind Likewise all and every one of my utensils
that is my property rattifying this and not other to be my Last Will Testament whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this Day & year
above written
In presence of
Joseph Martin
Rebekah Martin signed William Ashford (his mark "A") {seal}
Proved in open court Nov. Sessions 1784 by the oath of Joseph Martin
A Copy Test. John Ramsey C.C.
 

B


Chatham Co. Record of Wills (1798-1819)
N.C. State Archives film # C.022.80001
Vol. A, pg 179

Henry Bagley Will, dated 13 Dec. 1801

In the Name of God, Amen, this thirteenth day of December Eighteen Hundred & one. I Henry Bagley of the County of chatham and State of
North Carolina being of good & sound Memory Thanks to Almighty God and calling to remembrance the uncertain Estate of this Transitory Life and
that ll flesh must gird? to death when it shall please God to call do make constitute ordain & Declare this my Last will & Testament in manner
and form following, revoking and annulling by these presents all -----? testaments or testaments will or wills heretofore by me made and
declared Either by words or writing and this is to be taken only for my last will & testament and none other and now for the setting of my
temporal estate which it hath pleased God to bestow? upon me. I do order give & dispose the same in manner & form following that is to say.
First I will that all debts be paid within convenient time after my decease by my Executors hereinafter named.
Item. I give and bequeath to my daughter Bethany Rosson one Negro Girl named Ruth and her first living child to Mary Uland?, Daughter of
Bethany Rosson. I give & bequeath to my son Henry Bagley one Negro girl Named Jean?. I give and bequeath to my son Benjamin Bagley one Negro boy
Named Simon?, I give & bequeath to my son Joab Bagley three negroes Susanah Patrick and Nancy and all my land on the North East side of the
----? Creek to the upper Tract and all my land on South sides of the same creek up to the Little branch below the field then up the sd branch
to the fork then with the North fork to the Anson Road?. I give and bequeath to my son (this name could be any five letter name- Simon,
James? - it has been marked over) Bagley the twenty? three pounds and one feather Bed. I give & bequeath to my son Elisha?  Bagley three
Negros Named George, the elder, Jacob & Lucy and all my land on the North side of the Anson Road and the south side of the Meadow Creek & up
the said Creek to the upper road then all my Land North of that road with that field south of the Anson Road & down the meadow Creek to the
first branch then up the said branch to the fork then with the North fork to the Anson Road. I will that the household furniture and stock of
all kinds with the plantation utensils be Equally divided between my two sons Joab & Elisha and they to pay to Stephen Beaver & Wiley Estis'
three sons Henry, John & James Estis, ten pounds Each also I will that the three other Negros to wit: Priscilla, Catharine & little George be
Equally divided Between Henry, Benjamin & Bethany Rosson with the increase ----?? and my two son Joab & Elisha to pay the Debts.
Item I constitute & appoint John rosson & my son Joab Bagley Executors to this my last will & Testament in full powers to act as they are
directed by law in such cases and witness my hand this day & date first above written.
                                Henry Bagley
Signed & Delivered
In presence of
William McMasters (X)
John Piggott (X)
Susanna McMasters
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Chatham County Record of Estates
1782-1799 Vol. 1, pg. 25
NC State Archives film # C.022.50001

Will of David Banks - 4 Aug. 1785

In the name of god Amen I David Banks of Chatham county State North carolina being in a low state of health but of sound mend and memory do
make and ordain this my Last will and Testament in manner & form following first- I recommend my soul to god who gave it an my Body to
be decently buried in Christian manner at the discretion of my executors hereafter named -
Item I give and bequeath unto my Daughter Mary Gunter one feather Bed Bedstead and firnature
Item I give unto my sons James Banks, John Banks, Revers Banks, and my Daughter Keziah Gunter and Martha Bratcher Twenty shillings Each to be
raised out of my Estate
Item I give unto Sarah Jones one Heifer Earling (yearling)
Item I lend unto my beloved wife Elizabeth the Bed Bedstead and firnature during her life with fifteen bushells of corn and the Hogs her Choice -
Item the rest and remainder of my Estate of what kind soever to my son Drewry Banks with the Bed & after death of his Mother
Item I have my son Drewry and Matthew Jones Executors to this my last Will and Testament revoking all other Wills heretofore made by me In
Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this 4th day of August 1785
Sign'd seal'd and delivered in presence of
Sarah Petty (her mark X))
Doratha Dillard (her mark X)
Signed David Banks ( his mark "D")
A Copy Test John Ramsey C. C.
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Betsey Barbee Will
Chatham Co., Wills, Vol. B, 1818-1833
pg. 422 (202a)
NC State Archives Film # C022.8001

In the name of God Amen I Betsey Barbee of the County of Chatham and State of North Carolina being in a low state of health but of sound
mind and memory do make and ordain this my last will and Testament in manner and form following; first it is my desire that all my just debts
should be paid; And the residue of my estate now in possesion together with that willed to me by my Father Gray Barbee, I give and
dispose of as follows, I give to my Sister Malinda Barbee, my negro woman Clow with all her increase and one folding Table; together with
an equal part in the balence of my estate to her and her heirs forever;
I give to Malinda Riggins, Green Riggins, George Riggins and Luther Riggins, fifty dollars to be equally divided between the four
named Children. I give to Willis Barbee son of Christopher Barbee forty dollars; and all the balence of my estate both real and personal, to be
sold and the profit ariseing to bee equally divided between all of my brother's and Sisters. I hereby appoint Hudson M Cave Executor
to this my last will and testament in testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this 27th day of October 1830.
Witness
Jno Williams, Jurat
Willis Barbee, Jun. Betsey Barbee (her X mark) {Seal}

Proved at May Session A.D. 1831 by the oaths John Williams and Willis
Barbee. Test.
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Gray Barbee Will
Chatham Co., NC Wills, Vol. B, 1818-1833, pg. 415 (189)
NC State Archives Film # C.022.8001

In the name of God Amen, I Gray Barbee Senr. of Chatham Co. and State of North Carolina being weak in body but in perfect mind and memory
thanks be to God the the same it calling to mind the mortallity of my body knowing that it is appointment for all men once to dy. first of
all I recommend my soul to God that gave it me and my body to be buried in christian like manner and as touching such worldly estate do
constitute and ordain this my last will and testament that is to say first of all my desire is that my just debts be paid.

Item, I give to my son George Barbee one dollar over and above what he has rec'd (received) to him and his heirs forever.

Item, I give to my son Gray Barbee Junr. one dollar over and above what he has Rec'd to him and his heirs forever.

Item, I give to my son James Cain Barbee one dollar over and above what he has Re'd to him and his heirs forever.

Item, I give to my Son Joseph Barbee one dollar over and above what he
has Re'd to him and his heirs forever. Item, I give to my son Isaiah Barbee one dollar over and above what he
has re'd to him and his heirs forever.

Item, I give to my daughter Polly Chapman one dollar over and above what she has re'd to her and her heirs forever.

Item, I have given to my daughter Gilly Trice when she Married, one Negro Garbe Annias and still continue to give her and her children and
one Negro boy Gilford to her and her heirs forever.

Item, I give to my daughter Bekky Williams, one Negro garle dinah to her and her heirs forever.

Item I give to my daughter Betsy ( it is written above the last name and almost covers it up but, I think it is Barbee), one Negro Man Harry
one Negro woman Cloe? one Negro boy Jacob one first choice horse and one first choice cow and calf one sow and pigs one head bead and stid
(bed and bedstead) and furniture first choice one gun? chest four chairs some kitchen furniture and one year provision for her and family
to her and her heirs forever.

Item, I give to my daughter Malinday (Malinda) Barbee one Negro Man Abram one Negro Woman Peg one Negro boy Charles one young Mare that is
cald Hearn. Second choice cow and calf one sow and pigs one bead and stid and furniture second choice one read table four chairs some
kitchen furniture and one years provision for her and her family to her and her heirs forever.

Item, I furder(further) give to my two daughters Betsey Barbee and Malinday Barbee two old Negroes Buff Nan and provision for one year for
them to them and their heirs forever.

Item, I give to my daughter Polly Regins children, Green Regins Malinday Regins George Regin Suther Rice Regin three Hundred and fifty
dollars to be equally divided between the four children after the death of there Mother if all aliving if any should be dead and have heirs
they are to have there fathers or Mothers part and if any should be dead and leave no one are the surviving Legatees is to divide the
whole.

First I desire that the three hundred and fifty dollars is to be left in some friends hands and that put out at int. and the interest arising
from it to be made use of to help to support the Mother and children yearly. I also give to the aforesaid named children one sorrel Horse
two cows and one calf that there Mother claims one sow and pigs four chears to be made use of as the Money part and one years
provision for Mother and children and after the death of there Mother to them and their heirs forever.

Item, I give unto my son Pleasant Barbee supposed to be four hundred and ninety six acres of Land whereon I now live bounded by George
Williams Sr. Isham Williams Isaiah Barbee Gray Barbee Jr. Wm. Mason Sr. to him and his heirs forever and the rest of my estate to be sold at
nine or twelve month credit which my be thought best and if any to pay my debts and if any over divide it equal with all my children and
appoint my son Pleasant Bargee and my son on law Isham Williams my executors given under my hand and seal this 1st day of August 1829.
Test.
Franklin O'Kelly Gray Barbee (Seal)
Sanford Jenkins
H. H. Cave

Proved August Session 1830 by oath of Franklin O'Kelly
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Goin Barbee Will
Vol. A, 1798-1819 pg. 232, 233 (134, 135, 136)
Chatham Co., NC
 NC State Archives Film # c.022.8001

The twenty eighth day of April in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred & six, I Goin Barbe of Chatham County being in health and
perfect senses thanks be to God for it and calling to mind the uncertain state of this life and that all flesh must unto death when it
shall pleas God to call us. declare this my last Will and Testament in manner and form following. First being sorry for all my sins and
humbly desiring forgiveness for the same I commend my soul to almighty God my Saviour and redeemer in whom and by which merits I trust to be
saved to have full remission? and forgiveness for my sins and have and in trust in the kingdom of Heaven and and m body I commit to the earth
to be decently buried at the discretion of my Executor here after named and for the setting of my temporal estate and such goods chattles
and debts as it hath pleased to bestow on me. I do order and dispose of the same in manner and form following that is to say First I give unto
my beloved son Josiah Barbee all my Land lying in Wake County and also Twenty Five dollars in Cash to buy him a Desk. Item, I give unto my son
Mordecai Barbee as good a horse Sadle and Bridle as Josiah ? and as much stock of every kind and as much household furniture when he
marries or comes of age and all the remainder of my estate after my just debts are paid. I lend unto my beloved Anne Barbee during her
natural life in widowhood except the executors should think the estate us wasting but, if she marry or at her death my executor will divide my
estate as underneath directed. that is to say I give unto son Mordecai Barbee the Land and plantation whereon I now live and my Desk, the
balance of my estate to be divided as follows my Negroes to be valued & put in Lots and divided equally amongst all the legatees and the
overplus (repeats and the overplus) to be sold & equally divided between my six children Josiah Barbee, Mordecai Barbee, Rebekah
McApron, Delilah Mcgehee, Nancy Weatherspoon and Betsey Howard and I nominate and appoint my beloved son Josiah Barbee and John O'Kelly my
full and sole Executors of this my last Will and Testament. In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand the day and date above written
Goin Barbee
Done in presence of us
Merrell Beasley
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Chatham Co. Record of wills (originals)
Vol. 2, (1818-1833), pg. 196, 197, 198 (419 printed)
NC State Archives film #. C.022.80001

Will of Thomas Bell - 14 May 1820- Proved Nov. 1830

In the Name of God Amen
I Thomas Bell of the County of Chatham and State of North Carolina in the seventy third year of my age Being in my common state of helth with
my memory sound and intin (intent?) as usual thanks be to god for it and knowing that I must shortly depart this life; do make this my last
will and testamint in manner and form as follows. First that all my just debts be paid Secondly. Item I gave and bequeath unto my beloved
wife Mary Bell one negro woman named Sarah also one negro woman Ginney; to her and her heirs and assigns forever and I also do hereby
acknowledge that it is my will that she may dispose of them two named negro wimin among her childring as she may think proper in my lifetime
or after my death
Thirdly I lend unto my beloved wife all the residue of my Estate during her natural life or widdowhood Except what I or my wife have put in the
hands of any of our children
Fourthly, I have allready given to my son Jonathan Bell the the part of land I allotted for him
Fifthly, Item, I gave to my other four sons, to wit Enoch, Thomas Elijah & William Bell all Bells, four fifths of my Land to be Equally
divided among them at the death or marriage of my wife Mary Bell Either by lot or sale their choice and I also desire that the named children
of my deceased son James Bell viz, Enoch, William, Turner, Charity, Jonathan, Solomon and James Bell, all Bells , may have the other fifth
share that was allotted for their deceased Father James Bell to be Equally divided among them as they think proper agreeable to the above
Intent hear notice that if any of my children four sons as above mentioned shall settle on any part of my Land by the consent of myself
or my wife agreeable to the number of acres? or Boundary given up to him shall be his agreeable to valuation, his own labour excepted.
Sixthly, I desire that the residue of my Estate to be equally divided at the marriage of my said wife Mary Bell as follows.
I desire the latter of my children to be made Equal with the former in value of the gifts which they have already received which accounts may
be found ?? up in this will From this place I disire an Equal division among all my children viz Jonathan Bell Susannah Clark Enoch Bell
Thomas Bell Elijah Bell and William Bell Each one Equal share out of seven it being six sevenths. and I also desire that the seventh share
that I allotted for my son James Bell deceased may be Equally divided among his six children, to wit, Enoch, William T., Charity, Jonathan,
Solomon and James Bell, all Bells
I also desire all my negroes belonging to my Estate at home or in the hands of my children to be Equally divided by lot among my above
mentioned children, viz Enoch one Equal share out of seven it being six sevenths and I also desire that the seventh share which I allotted for
my son James Bell deceased, may be Equally divided among his six named children above and whatever negro or Negroes is or may be put put into
the hands of any of my children or in the family called generally or claimed theirs let them be in their lot according to valuation and if
any of my children do not like the negroes put in to unto his care; and traded it shall be in his lot according to the ?? of it.
I further desire that man and wife shall not be parted both belonging to my family furthermore let it understood that if any of the female
negroes in the hands of my children have or may have children after being put into their hands the said negro children born in the case of
said Child or Children is held and deemed by me their own property and not to be valued as my Estate with the former and at the division of
those Negroes the ballance of my Estate to be equally divided in manner and form as above divided and further more it is my will that if any or
other of my above named Children shall die leaving a lawfull Child or Children that the part of my estate belonging to him or her or theirs
according to my will which had not fell into his or their possession, shall be equally divided among such Children or Child and if either of
my aforesaid Children shall died in a married state leaving no Child nor Children that the property of my Estate belonging to him or them
according to my will which had not fell into his or their possession shall be valued in my Estate and equally divided as directed in this
article Seventhly and lastly I do hereby constitute appoint and ordain my three younger sons Thomas Bell, Elijah Bell and William Bell
or either two of them or either of them Executors to this my last will and Testament and I do hereby disannull and revoke all former wills by
me made and acknowledge this and this only to be my last will and Testament In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal
this the fourteenth day of May A.D one Thousand Eight hundred & twenty seven
Test. William Lasater Sr. (Jurat)
Isaac Kirby
Thomas Bell {Seal}
Proved at November Term 1830 by the Oath of Wm. Lasater a subscribing
Witness
Test Thos. Ragland C.C.C.

My note; this Thomas Bell is my ancestor. He was married to Mary Laseter, daughter of Wm. Lasater. Their daughter Susannah Clark was the
wife of William Clark, of Chatham. He being the son of Alexander Clark and Phoebe (Jefferson) Clark. Two of the Bell boys married Chapmans.
One married a Maughan. If you are of any of this family, let me know. I have much more, information to exchange.
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CHATHAM COUNTY, NC - WILLS - James Bennett, 5 Apr 1808
                        ----¤¤¤----

James Bennett Will dated 1808
Chatham Co. NC Record of Wills
NCSA film # 022.80001
pg. 153

In the name of God Amen. I James Bennett of the county of Chatham and State of North Carolina considering the uncertainty of the mortal life
and being in a low state of health but of perfect mind and memory do make and publish this my last will and testament in manner and form
following viz.
My body to a decent burial & my soul to God that gave it. I will & bequeath to my Brother Charles Bennett all that tract or parcel fo Land
whereon I now live at the death o my Mother Salley Bennett. But I desire for her to be possessed of half the Land during her life and at the her
death to return to my Brother Charles Bennett to hold to him and his heirs forever. I also Will and bequeath to my Brother Charles Bennett
all my farming and carpenters tools and one Rifle Gun to hold to him and his heirs forever.
I also will and bequeath to my Mother Sally Bennett one Bay Mare to dispose of as she thinks proper.
I also will and direct for my Brother Charles Bennett to sell apart of the stock and pay my just debts and I also desire for the balance of the
stock to continue on the plantation until the death of my Mother and then to be sold & equally divided between my brother Charles Bennet & my
four sisters, viz Mary Pratt, Siny Paterson, Priscilla Smith and Franky Andes (Andres?)
I appoint my Brother Charles and Jehu Peoples Executors to this my last Will and Testament.
To which I James Bennett set my hand & seal.
April 5, 1808
                        James (his X mark) Bennet   {Seal}
Signed Sealed & delivered
in presents of
William Guthrie Jun'r
James Neale
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Will of Henry Bezeley dated 19 Jan, 1795, Probated Feb Term, 1795
N.C. State Archives film # C.022.50001
1782-1799, Vol. 2, pg. 37

" In the name of God Amen
I Henry Bezeley of the Parish of St. Bartholomew, and County of Chatham in State of N. Carolina, being weak and sick in body but of perfect
sense and memory thanks be to the Almighty God for the same.
After recommending my soul to God who gave it and my body to be decently interred in Christian like manner by my Executors hereafter
mentioned I hereby testify this to be my last will and testament as followeth.
Imprimis I give and bequeath to my son Isham Bezeley the land whereon I now live with one featherbed and furniture to him and his heirs
forever-
Item I give and bequeath to my daughter Mary Bezeley 25 pounds to her and her heirs forever-
Item I give and bequeath to my Wineyford Bezeley Davis 25 pounds to her and her heirs forever-
Item I give and bequeath my daughter Tabitha Harwood 25 pounds to her and her heirs forever-
Item I give and bequeath to my daughter Betty? Bennet 25 pounds to her and her heirs forever-
Item I give and bequeath to Edith Wimberley one feather bed & furniture to her and her heirs forever-
And for the raising of the above legacies of money I desire that my stock horses hogs and cattle my be sold at twelve months credit if a
balance remain after the legacies are paid off to be equally divided among my sons Furthermore I desire that my son Jesse Bezeley should
take my wife Mary Bezeley under his care and that she should have a comfortable mainteneance her days and for a reward, to Jesse Bezeley
for his trouble and expense for maintain his other each of my sons shall bear an equal part of the expense for her maintenance and that
she shall have negroe Jenney during her life to lend on her-
Item the remaining part of my estate I give and bequeath unto William Bezeley, Ephraim, Henry Bezeley, Findal Bezeley, Jesse Bezeley and
Isham Bezeley to them and their heirs forever which consists chiefly of Negroes and to be equally divided share and share alike-
Item I constitute appoint and ordain my loving friends William Merritt William O'Kelly and my son Henry Bezeley and my son Jesse Bezeley and
my son Isham Bezeley Executors to this my last will and testament In witness whereof I published and declared it so to be this 19th day
of January A.D., 1795
Test
Wm. Merritt Jurat
Wm. O'Kelly Jurat
Signed Henry BEASLY {Seal}
A Copy Test John Ramsey C.C.
Returned Feb'y Term '95
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Will of John Booker- dated 5 July, 1799, proved Nov. 1799
Chatham Co., N.C. Record of Wills, Vol. A (1798-1819), pg. 149
N.C. State Archives film # C.022.80001

In the name of God, Amen. I John booker of the county of Chatham and State of North Carolina being now in body but of mind and memory do make
ordain and constitute this my last Will and Testament.
Item - I give to my son John Booker, the tract of Land whereon he now lives, lying on the South side of Tom's Branch on Elias? Buck Horn up
said Tom's Branch to the line thence along the line to the corner, thence along the line to Wm. Moses Spring branch thence down the Branch
to the creek thence up B. Creek to sd Tom's Branch. I also give him my musket to him and his heirs forever.
Item - I lend to my wife Omey/Oney? Booker the tract of land and plantation whereon she now lives during her life. Except what I have will'd before
to my son John. And after he death to be equally divided between my sons Isaiah, Hardy, James and William Booker the land laid off in lots and
then my son Isaiah to take choice and the rest shall be drawn for.  I give to my daughter Sally Leavens three head of sheep to her and her
heirs forever.
I give to my daughter Nancy Heathcock, 3 head of sheep to her, etc.
I give my daughter Polly Mimms three head of sheep; I give my daughter Ruby His three head of sheep. I give to my daughter Susannah Booker two
cows and calves , one bed and furniture one sow and pig. three two year old hogs three head of sheep to her and her heirs forever.
I give to my son Isaiah Booker my sorrel colt my rifle gun two cows and calves one bed and furniture to him and his heirs forever.
I give to my son James Booker two cows and calves one bed and furniture to him and his heirs forever.
I give to my son William Booker two cows and calves, one bed and furniture.
I give to my wife Oman Booker all the remaining part of my stock Horses Cattle sheep Hogs, household and kitchen furniture plantation tools and
utensils except the before will'd to her and her heirs forever.
 I also leave my tract or tract of land up above Chatham Court house bought at Sheriff sale, Zachariah Harman Sheriff bought between me &
Jas. William to be sold and equally divided between all my children.
Lastly, I appoint my wife Omai Booker Executrix, John Massey, David Mimms Executr's to this my last will and testament.
As witness my hand and seal this 5th day of July Anno Domini 1799
                        John (his mark) Booker  {Seal}
Fred. Ragland
Isaiah (his mark) Booker
Rebecca Cotten
                        Proved at November Term, 1799
                        by Frederick Ragland.
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CHATHAM COUNTY, NC - WILLS - Moses Booth, 30 Jan 1814
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Moses Booth Will - 30 Jan. 1814 - Feb. Sessions 1810
Chatham Co., NC Will Bk. A, pg. 320a - 310 (written)
NCSA Film # 022.80002

In the name of God amen, I Moses Booth of the State of North Carolina
and County of Chatham being sick but in sound memory calling unto mind the mortality of my body knowing that it is appointed unto all men once
to die and after death the Judgement and as for the worldly goods wherewith it hath pleased God to bless with in this life I give and
dispose of the same in the following manner and form (to wit)
1st. I give to my dearly beloved Wife Elizabeth all my property accepting (excepting?) one Bed ^feather^ & furniture, one cow and calf,
the property consisting of Three head of Horses four head of cattle, one head of hogs, one Feather Bed & furniture together with all the
Households goods & Kitchen furniture plantation utensils and moveable affects to her & her heirs forever.
2. I give to my grand daughter Dolly Booth one feather Bed & furniture, one Cow & Calf, my desire is that my beloved wife Elizabeth keep in her
hands the property which I give to Dolly Booth until she is grown up to be a woman and that some good person take care of it for her, to her
heirs forever.
3rdly. And lastly I constitute and appoint my beloved Wife, Elizabeth Executrix of this my last will and testament. In witness whereof I have
set my hand and seal the 30th January A.D. 1814. Signed Published and Pronounced to be my last will and testament
in presents of us.
Jesse Thomas??? (cannot tell for sure)
Robert Connel
John Ellis
Codicil: 4. I give to my Daughter's Polly Branton, one Dollar to her and her heirs forever.
5.. I give to my Daughter Elizabeth Burns?? one Dollar to her & her heirs forever.
In witness whereof I have set my hand and seal this day and date above written.
                Moses (his X mark) Booth
Witness
Jesse Thomas?
Robert Connel
John Ellis              proved February Session 1819 by Robert Conneal

                Moses (his X mark) Booth  {Seal}
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Chatham County Record of Estates
1782-1799 Vol. 1 pg. 23,23a, 24
NC State Archives film # C.022.5001
Will of Henry Bracewell - 17 Nov. 1784

In the name of god amen I Henry Bracewell of the county of Chatham & State of N Carolina being very sick of body but of perfect mind and
memory do make ordain & constitute this my last Will & Testament (To Wit)
first I leave to the use of my beloved wife Sarah the dwelling house whereon I now live & two Hundred and fifty acres adjoining one bed &
furniture one negroe girl named Nance one sorrel Horse colt and hunting saddle to her during her during her natural life and then & at that
time it is my Will & desire that my Daughter Cynthia may have the said Dwelling house & plantation with the two Hundred and fifty acres
adjoining also the negroe girle named Nance she and her Increase to be equally divided between my said Dau'r Cynthia & son Blake William
Bracewell to them & their heirs forever
secondly I give and leave to my Daughter Cynthia one negroe man named Berwick one negroe boy named Dick and one bed and furniture to & her
heirs forever --
Thirdly I give and leave to my son Blake William Bracewell three Hundred acres of land adjoining the said plantation I left my wife
Sarah and then to my Dau'r Cynthia including the plantation whereon Benjamin Kitchen now lives one negroe wench named fann one negroe boy
named Jimm one Bed & furniture to him his Heirs forever with forty acres of land whereon old Shaddox lived and the half of the Still that
now belongs to me & John Wommack-
Fourthly It is my will & desire and do give Eli Yarborough the sum of Twenty pounds specie to be laid out on the said Eli Yarborough by my
Executors to the best advantage in giving him good & sufficient Education so as is enable him by acting his part to git his living by
his ??? or other way of occupation & in case of his death before the aid money shall be laid out by my Exec'rs then and in that case
the said money to be equally divided between my Dau'r Cynthia & son Blake Wm. Bracewell- fifthly I leave all the rest of my Estate to be
sold at twelve month credit by my Exec'rs taken bond & approved security and the money so arising after all just debts being collected
& discharged to be equally divided between my wife Sarah Dau.'r Cynthia and son Blake william Bracewell & if either of the said of my children
should die without issue then the other one shall & may enjoy the full of the others part & portion and further more do appoint constitute
make & ordain Joseph Brantly John Wommack & Burwell Williams Executors of this my Last Will and Testament revoking and disanulling all other
former Wills Legacies and bequests and declaring none other & only this to be my last Will & testament In witness whereof I have hereunto set
my hand & seal this seventeenth day of November Anno Domini 1784
Sign'd seal'd published & acknowledg'd by the s'd Henry Bracewell in our presence & are in the presence of each other have hereunto
subscribed our names
Nathan Prince
James Scer'vt Jones Signed Henry Bracewell (his mark "H") {seal}
A Copy Test John Ramsey, C.C.
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CHATHAM COUNTY, NC - WILLS - John Brantly, 5 Nov 1811
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John Brantly Will - Made 5 Nov. 1811 - No probate date.
Chatham Co. NC Will Bk. A, pg. 275a 221 (written)
NCSA Film # 022.80002

In the name of God amen, I John Brantly of Chatham County and State of North Carolina being of sound and perfect mind and memory Blessed be
God; do this fifth of November in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and eleven make and publish this my last Will and
Testament in manner following; that is to say, First I give and bequeath unto my oldest son Edward Brantly, one negro Boy called Solloman.
2nd I give and bequeath to my son James Brantly one Negro Boy called Lenard and Fifty dollars.
3rd I give and bequeath to my Grand children the heirs of the body of my daughter Patsey, one negro girl called Chaney and her increase to be
equally divided amongst them all when the youngest comes of age.
4th I give to my two daughters Saley Patterson & Muby? Stuby? Parksdale (Barksdale?) two dollars a piece. Also Joseph Brantly who married
daughter Patsey one dollar.
5th I give to my daughter Polly Burns Fifty Dollars.
6th I give to my daughter Hannah Burns Thirty Dollars
7th I give to my daughter Elizabeth Brantly one Negro Boy called Daniel
8th I give to my daughter Barbara Durham one Negro Girl called Patience.
9th I leave my Daughter Selai Harrington and the heirs of her body to be left in the hands of my son Edw'd who I appoint for her guardian & her
heirs. One Negro Girl called Betha, also one Horse the value of fifty dollars the said Negro and hers to be in the hands of her Guardian for
the use of her and her heirs forever.
I give to my Grand daughter Anny Brantly daughter of Patsey Brantly, Fifty dollars to be raised out of my estate which I leave with my Wife
and paid her when she comes of age.
11th Leave Seven Negroes, Anny, Gunder, Mike, Penny, Silvy, Washington, Dixon and their increase if there be any in the hands of my wife to be
divided at her death or sooner if she has? cause, equally amongst the following children: Edward Brantly, James Brantly, Hannah Burns, Polly
Burns, Barbara Durham, Nancy Justice, Elizabeth Brantly, Celai Harrington.
12th I give my son James my land whereon I now live and wife Elizabeth to have her thirds when she please during her life time or widowhood out
of James Lands.
15th The remainder of my property after my lawful debts and gifts are paid for the use of my Wife during her lifetime or widowhood and these
to be equally divided amongst all my children which is now alive.
And I do hereby appoint my Wife Elizabeth Brantly and my son Edward Brantly, Executors of this my last Will & Testament. In witness whereof
I the said John Brantly have hereunto set my hand and seal this day and date above written.
Signed, Sealed Published and delivered by the said John Brantley the Testator as his last Will and testament in the presence of us, who were
present at the time signing and acknowledging thereof.
                                John Brantly   {Seal}
Test.
Blake Brantly
Clabourne Guthrie
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CHATHAM COUNTY, NC - WILLS - Joseph Brantley, 27 Mar 1807
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Joseph Brantley Will - Mar. 27, 1807 - May Session 1807
Chatham Co. NC Will Bk. A, pg. 133 (written)
NCSA Film # 022.80002

In the name of God amen. March 27th, 1807. I Joseph Brantley of Chatham county, North Carolina being sick in Body but of perfect mind & memory
do make and ordain this to be my last will and testament viz:
I give to my Grandson Joseph Duty one Negro Boy, named Isaac also one colt called his by the familys. Also, one Bridle and Saddle to him and
his heirs forever. I give to my daughter Martha Duty and her son William and her three daughters, three negroes to wit: Bridges, Nance, & Suky.
Also two Bayes? (looks like Bones?!) and the Black Mare: to be equally divided amongst my daughter and her fore children, also one tract of
Land adjoining Benjamin Wilsons containing Ninety acres also fore Cows & Calves, also my stock of Hogs all to be equally divided amongst the
above  Martha & her Wm. and three daughters. My will and desire is that the rest of my Negroes to wit; Ned, Sion and Jesse be sold also the
remainder of stock of Horses and Cattle be sold also my Waggon, smiths tools & household furniture & farming tools be sold. And my desire is
that my Just debts be paid out of the money arising from the sale of the above property that the rest of the money arising from the sale be
divided as followeth viz;
I give to my Grand (daughter) nancy Brooks Fifty Pounds. I give to my son Joseph Brantly Five pounds. I give to my grandchildren viz: William
Brantley son of Joseph Brantley, Joseph Duty, Polly Brantley Brantley daughter of William and Saley & Febe Brantley daughters (of) John
Brantley, dec'd. all the remainder of money to be equally divided amongst them. And (I) do appoint my trusty friends Cato Riddle, John
Marten and William Brantley executors of this my last Will and Testament.
                        Joseph Brantley   {Seal}
John Riddle
William Abett
                Proved May sessions 1807 by John Riddle.
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William Brantly Will - 9 April 1822
Chatham Co., Wills - Vol. B. pg. 374 (105-106)
NC State Archives film # C022.80001

In the name of God amen, I William Brantly Senr. of Chatham County and State of North Carolina, being of sound and perfect mind and memory
(blessed be God) do this ninth day of April in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and twenty two make and ordain this my last will
and Testament.
first I recommend my Soul to Almighty God and my body to be decently buried hoping through the merits of Christ for a blessed Resurrection
and as for such worldly goods as it hath pleased Almighty God to bestow on me I give and bequeath in the following manner
First all and every thing left on my plantation at my decease to go the use and benefit of my beloved wife all my land, Negroes and their
Increase and stock of every kind so to? all the crops, Household and Kitchen furniture with the other stuff and tools on the plantation
including everything that I possess, except such part of my land or negroes my Executors may see cause to sell to pay my Just debts and
funeral expenses, during her natural life and after her death all the property left to be equally divided between my sons William Brantly,
John Brantly, Lewis Brantly, & Simeon Brantly. and my Daughters Caty Brantly, Peggy Brantly, Patty Brantly and Betsey Brantly for them to
have it forever.
as for my other children I have given them all the Estate that I ever intended for them which they have already got in possession And I
hereby make and ordain my sons william and John Brantly Executors and my beloved wife Polly Brantly Executrix of this my last Will and
Testament. revoking all others In witness thereof I the said William Brantly Sen'r hereunto set my hand and seal the day and year above written
Signed and acknowledged William Brantly {seal}
In the presence of
Thos Clegg
Biddy Clegg Proved at November Term 1823 and then
John        Brantly Ext'r therein named qualified
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CHATHAM COUNTY, NC - WILLS - Joseph Brasington, 14 Apr 1810
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Joseph Brasington Will - 15 April 1810 - no probate date
Chatham Co. NC, Will Bk. A, pg. 258a  - 187 (written)
NCSA Film # 022.80002

In the name of God amen. I Joseph Brasington of the county of Chatham and State of North carolina being very sick and weak and in a low state
of health but in perfect mind and memory calling to mind the mortality of my body do make and ordain this my last will and testament. The first
I recommend my soul to almighty God my body to the will of my executors to be buried in a christian like manner.
Item. I give and bequeath to my loving Wife Martha Brasington, the use of the Land and plantation where I now live on during her natural life
or widowhood and after her marriage or decease then to be rented out until my three sons comes of age namely Samuel, William and Joseph
Brasington. I also give to my loving Wife Martha a negro man by the name of Starling also a Negro Girl by the name of Sharlotte together with
three Beds and furniture also my Household and Kitchen furniture, and after her marriage or decease, the the two Negroes above named together
with the household & Kitchen & furniture to be equally divided among my children.
Item. I give and bequeath to my daughter Juday Brasington a Negro woman and child by the name of Polly and Dealy One Feather Bed and furniture
to her and her heirs forever.
Item I give & bequeath to my daughter nancy Brasington one Negro man by the name of Allen also one negro Woman by the name of Vilot. One Feather
Bed and furniture to her and her heirs forever.
Item. I give and bequeath to my son Joseph Brasington one Negro Boy by the name of wilson to him and his Heirs forever.
Item. I give and bequeath unto my son Samuel Brasington one Negro Boy by the name of Berry ot him and his heirs forever.
Item. I give and bequeath unto my son William Brasington ONe Negro Boy by the name of Peter to him and his forever.
Item. I give & bequeath to my daughter Amanda one Negro girl by the name of jemimah also One Negro Girl by the name of Liza to her and her heirs
forever.
Item. I leave one Horse one Mair & colt for the use of the family and plantation.
Item. I also leave three Negroes to be sold to pay for the Land I now live on, namely Peter, Jenny & Plesant. also Two Horses Damen & Jack by
name. I also leave my Waggon & gear for the use of my family and plantation.
Item. It is my Will and desire that after my just debts are paid that the remainder of my property to be equally divided between my three
daughters, namely judah, Nancy & Amanda Brasington. Lastly I do hereby nominate and appoint my Wife Martha Brasington, Oliver Prince &
Bartholomew Lightfoot Executrix and Executors to this my last Will and Testament making null and void all other will or wills heretofore made,
Ratifying & informing these and no other to my last will and testament.
In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand & seal this the fifteenth day of April in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and ten.
                                Joseph Brasington  {Seal}
Signed Sealed & delivered
in presents of us
Thomas Lasater
William (his X mark) Davis
                                Proved May 1810
N.B.
In the Item leaving one Horse one Mare and Colt the waggon & gear for the use of my family and plantation the true intent and measure is for
the use of my Wife Martha during her life and widowhood.
                        Joseph Brasington
Thomas M. Sturdivant
                        Proved May 1810
                        Thomas Lasater
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Will of Henry Bray, dated 17 June, 1790 - no probate date.
Chatham Co., NC, Record of Estates, pg. 4b, 5
NC State Archives film # C.002.500

In the Name of God amen I Henry Bray of the County Chatham and State North carolina being weak and inform of Body but of perfect mind and
memory thanks be God Calling to mind the mortallity of my Body and knowing that it is appointed once for all men 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 into the hands of Almighty God that
gave it and my Body I recommend to the earth to be burried in a decent christain Burial at the discression of my Executor and as touching such
worldly Estate wherewith it has please god to bless me in this life I give and dispose in the following manner_____
Item I give and bequeath to Mary Bray my dearly beloved wife one Bed and furniture and her Saddle as her own property and the third part of
all the rest of my household goods Chattles and moveable Estate as her own property and the use of my home Plantation so long as she continues
to be my widow or as long as she pleases to live thereon except she marries__
Item I give and bequeath to my son Edward Bray the sum of Twenty Shillings to him and his Heirs forever; ___ Item I give and bequeath to
my son Henry Bray my Land and all the remaining two thirds of my Estate with his paying out of my Estate the sum of five pounds to each of my
Daughters Vix. Sarah Ramsour, Mary Johnson, Catharine Jones & Elizabeth Poe) to him & his heirs forever_ I hereby constitute make and ordain my
Son Henry Bray Sole Executor of this my last Will and Testament and I do hereby utterly disallow revoke and disannull all and every other
former Testaments, Wills, Legaces, bequests and Executors by me in any wise before named willed and 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 seventeenth day June one Thousand
seven hundred and ninety
Signed Seal'd and pronounced
in presence of
Thos Ragland
Henry Bray Signed Henry (his "H" mark) Bray {Seal}

A Copy Test
John Ramsey C.C.
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CHATHAM COUNTY, NC - WILLS - Jeremiah Brewer/Philips, Sen'r, 5 Sep 1805
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Jeremiah Brewer/Philips Will - 5 Sept. 1805 - Nov. 1805
Chatham Co., NC Will Bk. A, pg. 223 (116 written)
NCSA Film #022.80002

The 'noncupation' Will of Jeremiah Brewer, Sen'r of Chatham County, North Carolina, who dec'd on Thursday the fifth day of September one
thousand eight hundred and five, reduced to writing, from the information and at the request, of Lazarus Philips and Nimrod Philips
sons of the said Jeremiah, who as they say (were to the best of their recollection) the only competent witnesses is as follows to wit;
Elizabeth Philips daughter, of the dec'd to keep the Bed & furniture in her possession, also to have a cow a calf and yearling, that was
generally called her own.
Sarah Philips another daughter of the dec'd to keep the Bed and furniture in her possession and commonly called her own, and also a
speckled heifer, one half of the crop growing being by agreement the property of Nimrod Philips, the other half belonging to the dec'd to go
to the use and benefit of the said Elizabeth Philips, Sarah Philips & Elizabeth Philips two children, Elmore and Alexander.  After the debts
of the said Jeremiah Philips dec'd is paid the residue of his estate both real and personal to be equally divided between all his children.
Signed by the said Lazarus and Nimrod on the day aforesaid, in the presence of
Matt. McKenzie
                                Lazarus Philips
                                Nimrod Philips

                Proved November Sessions 1805
                by Amy Brady & Lazarus Philips.
NOTE: I do not know why Jeremiah is called "Brewer" in the beginning of the will. Perhaps he really was Brewer and the Phillips children were step children or maybe his name was not clearly understood by the person writing the will??
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Will of Oliver Brewer, dated 14 Oct. 1791, no probate date
This will has some funny spellings, (i.e. executioner for executor) It
was a very clearly written will and I copied it faithfully !!

Chatham Co. Record of Estates, 1782-1799, Vol. 1, pg. 45(b),46
NC State Archives film # C.022.50001

In the name of God amen I Oliver Brewer of the State of North Carolina & County of Chatham being weak of Body but of sound mind & memory
thanks be to allmighty God for it theirefoure cawling to mind the mortality of my body and knowing tis appointed for all men once to die
I do make and owder this to bee my last Will and Testament in manner and form as followeth first I recom my immortal soule into the hands of
my blessed redeemer who gave it to me sec,dly I giv my body to the Earth from whench it was taken to bee Buried at the dscrtion of my
executioner heareafter metioned- Thirdly my Will is that all my jest debts bee paid,
Item, I give to my beloved wife Rebecah Brewer the plantation whareon I now do live during hur naturall life time or widowhood and all the Land
of this side wards Branch joyning the plantation & after hur decease to my son George Brewer to him his heirs & assigns forever, Item, I give
to my sons namely William Brewer & Henry Brewer & Christopher Brewer all the land of the North side of Wards Branch to be equally divided
between the three William part to Joyn William Edwards line Henry's to bee next and Christophers to bee next and Joyn Word branch to them and
their heirs and assigns forever
Item I give to my son Oliver Brewer Sixty pounds to him his heirs and assigns forever Item give to my beloved wif Rebecah Brewer one Horse
that is cauled hurn to hur heirs and assigns forever and one Negroe woman named Jude during hur natural life time or widowhood and the bed
whareon she lies and furniture, Item, I give to my daughter Frances Brewer the bed that is cauled hurn and furniture. and two cows & calve
the residue and remander of my wourldy Estate I leave to my six sons Namely Edward Brewer and Oliver Brewer & William Brewer & Henry Brewer
& Christopher & George Brewer and my daughters namely Patti Blalock & Rebecah Edwards & Hannah Edwards & Frances Brewer to be equally divided
amongst them all after making them equal that has had nothing given with them that has Lastly I constitute and appoint my Beloved wif
Rebecah Brewer & George Blalock & William Edwards extr's of this my last Will and Testament as Witness my hand and seale this this 14th day
of October 1791
Signed Oliver Brewer {Seal}
A Copy Test. John Ramsey C.C.
James Smith
Howel Hearn
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Will of Thomas Brooks - Made 30th Oct. 1794/95?, Proved Feb. 1796
N.C. State Archives film # C.022.50001, Vol. 2, pg. 70

In the Name of God Amen I Thomas Brooks of the County of Chatham and State of North Carolina being verry sick and weak but or in perfect
mind and memory thanks be giving to God. Calling into mind the mortality of my body and knowing that it's appointed for all men Once
to die, do make and ordain this my last will and testament that is to say principally & first of all I give and recommend my soul into the
hands of Almighty God that gave it and my body I recommend to the earth to be burried in a decent Christian burrial at the descration
(discretion) of my Executors and as touching such worldly Estate wherewith hath pleased God to bless me in this life I give Demise and
dispose of the same in following manner and form.
Item I will to my son Stephen my claim of Land where I now on live and also a third part of the Grist Mill & Impurtences (appurtenances?)
thereunto belonging the them, two thirds belonging to my two sons, to wit, Thomas Brooks & Samuel Brooks & the impurtences (appurtenances?)
there unto. Its also my desire that my three suns should have all my Mill seals? on my Claim of land on Rockey river, to wit Thomas Brooks
Samuel Brooks & Stephen Brooks.
Item I give to my son Thomas Brooks my old plantation beginning on said Thomas's line on the River running down the river to the mouth of said
Thomases Spring branch to north to said Thomases line including all the Land belonging to said old place? Moore (more) or less.
Item I give to my son samuel the plantation whereon he now lives beginning at the Old saw Mill pound (pond?) at the Mouth of Fick
(Fike?) Creek then South to the East and West line then west along said line and so round to the river including all the land on the south side
of Rockey river
Item It is my desire that my Prime woods land should be the property of my three suns and sun in law William Tomason to wit, Thomas Brooks
Samuel Brooks and Stephen Brooks.
Item I give to m son Stephen all the rest of my land not menched (mentioned?) in this will
Item I give to my Daughter Reeback (Rebecca?) Martin ten shillings out of my Estate.
Item I lend to my wife Mary one fether bed and bead stead, and sheets one Quilt, two cows, poplar Chest, one small box, four chairs four
plates two dishes two small basons and one big --- one coffee pot one tea pott and tea kettle & cheffing dish one small skillet one green?
one Reg.?
Item I give after the death of my wife Mary the said property lent to my wife Mary, should be the property of the Daughter of Samuel Brooks
named Mary and it is my desire that my Negroe man named Daniel should be left in the care of my executors for the term of seven years from
this date and then to be a free man. It's my desire that my wife Mary have the said labor of said Daniel till the Expiration of seven years
and If in case she decease before the term of years above menched (mentioned?) he the said Daniel serve my sun Stephen the remainder of
the said seven years.
It's my desire that all the rest of my property not menched (mentioned) in this will should be sold and the money Ekely (equally?) divided between my
three suns & sun in law William Tomason (to wit, Thomas, Samuel and Stephen.)
In Witness hereunto I have set my hand & seal this thireth (thirtieth) day October in the year of Our Lord One thousand seven hundred and
Ninety fore (four? or five?), and its my desire that my two sons Thomas Brook & Samuel Brooks (be) Exexcutors
Signed Thomas Brooks Senr.
Dread? Harris X
Mary Brooks
Proved at February Sessions 1796 by Dread? Harris.
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Edmund Browder Will, dated June 4, 1781, no probate date
Chatham County Record of Estates (1781-1799) Vol. 1, pg. 24 a,b
NC State Archives film # C.022.50001

Anodomini 1781 June the 4

In the name of god amen I Edmund Browder of Chatham County State of North Carolina planter being weak in body but through the mercy of
almighty god of a sound mind and being convinced of the mortallity of my body having made my peace with god through Jesus Christ I do solemly
commit my soul into his hands as into the hands of a failthful Creator and my Mortal body after my decease to the care of my surviving family
and friends to be laid in the grave with Christan descresion in full assurance of hope and joyful expectation of receiving the same
gloriously improved in the morning of the resurection and as for those temporal good and blessing which god was pleased to me me steward of in
this world I leave as follows first unto my youngest son John Browder I bequeath the plantation I now live on containing three hundred acres of
Land one Negroe Man named Will one Negro woman named Hannah and one boy Phill My tender Loving wife to be maintained out of it with him as long
as she lives with the use of one feather bead and two cows and calves Secondly, I give to my son Darius Browder one Tract of Land lying on
New Hope Containing three hundred acres, one Negro Boy named tom one Negro Girl named Silve one Bay Stallion
Thirdly, I give to my two Daughters Lois J. Mason all that is my property in virgine to be Equally divided when maried or come of age
desiring my Brother Joseph Broder to take them and theirs in care Now all the residue of my Estate I desire to be Equally divided amongst
my Daughters Molly Clark, Ernice/Eunice Wilson, Silva White, Debrah Browder and I leave Wm. Wilson and Darius Browder to be my Exeters
which I do assert to be my Last Will & Testament denying all other Wills from whence any other might arise given under my hand and seal
this 4th day of June one thousand seven hundred and Eight one

John White
Thomas Bell
Wm. Wilson Signed Edm'd Browder {Seal}
A Copy Test. John Ramsey C.C.
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Will of Abner Brown, dated 24 Sept. 1797, proved Nov. Term, 1797
N.C. State Archives film # C.022.50001, Vol. 2, pg. 127b, 128

State of North Carolina, Chatham county
In the Name of god, Amen, I Abner Brown being Weake in body but in my sound judgment and Memory thanks be to God for the same and calling to
mind the mortality of my body and knowing it is appointed for all men once to die do make this my Last Will and Testament Revoking and
disannulling all former wills by me made And acknowledging this to be my only to stand in full force and virtue, First of all I Recommend my
body to the Earth in Hope of a Joyfull Resurrection and my souls in the hands of a Almighty God that gave it. As Touching my goods where with
it hath pleased God to bless me with I Dispose of in the following manner
Item I give Lucy Brown a feather Bed & furniture a Good Cow & Calf.
Item I give unto my beloved wife during her natural Life time or Widow Hood all all my House hold furniture of every kind.
I give unto my beloved son John Brown and the Child my Wife is big with, if it is a boy the Mill and three acres of Land after my Wife's
Death or when she should marry, to be Equally divided between them when they come of Lawfull age if the child my wife is pregnant with should
be a Girl I give the above Mill to John Brown. My Will is after my Wifes death that my Household furniture and Stock of every Kind be
Equally divided between Nancy Brown and Sally Brown, Polley Brown and the Child my wife is Pregnant with if it a Girl, if not between the
above mentioned three girls
Item I give my son John Brown a Horse saddle & Bridle Also I give unto said John a rifle Gun & Shot bagg. I nominate and appoint my beloved
wife Mary Brown & Robert Ward my Executers to this my Last Will & Testament And now O Lord I have finished my Worthely (should be
Earthly?) business thankfull for this and all thy mercys and in Charity with all men and Humbly wait thy will, in Testimony I Have Hearunto set
my hand & seal this 24th day of Sep. 1797.
Sign'd Abner (his X mark) Brown {Seal}

Signd & acknowledged to
be that Will of the Testator
in the precence of this Witnesses
A Burnett (X)
Harbert Lewis
Joseph Fooshee X
Proved at November Term 1797 by the Oaths of A. Burnett & Joseph Fooshee, the subscribing Witnesses thereto
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Will of Elizabeth Bryant dated 11 May, 1798, probated Nov., 1798
Chatham Co. Record of wills - Vol. A - 1798-1819, pg. 140
NC State Archives film # C.022.80001

Note: this film is very faded and blurred, much of the will is unreadable so, some words are my best guess.

In the name of God, Amen. I, Elizabeth Bryant of the County of Chatham in North Carolina being in ----- ------ but of ------ ---- and --------
thanks be to almighty God for these ------ ------ ------ ------ and knowing that it is appointed for all men, once to de do make and ordain
this to be my last will and testament in manner and form following viz;
first and principally? I remand? my immortal soul unto the lord almighty that gave it hoping that the ------ of my blessed ----- ---- to inherit
life everlasting. ------ ------ --------. (several words unreadable.)
I order and dispose of it in the following manner ; first my will is that all my just debts and funeral expenses be paid.
Item - I give to my beloved granddaughter Charlotte? Powell, wife of William Powell's my chest, also my bed and all the bed clothes? except
the rug? & ----- ---- which I give to my beloved Daughter Delilah Stroud, ---- ----- her heirs and assigns forever.
Item - I give to my beloved grand children Wm. Billy (or Belly), Thomas Billy/Belly, Jane Billy/Belly, Cairey Billy/Belly & Robert Billy/Belly
(Then follows very hard to read sentences) .......I give and bequeath to my beloved son John Fearington and my beloved daughter Elizabeth Burnett
to be equally divided amongst them, their heirs and assigns, forever.
Lastly, I constitute and appoint my beloved son John Fearington, executor of this my last will and testament ------- ----- ------  set my
hand and seal this 11th day of May, 1798. Signed and sealed in presence of Thomas Snipes, Gilam? Daniel? and Abner Crow?
Elizabeth (her X mark) Bryant  {Seal}
Retrn'd & proved at Nov. 1798 court by John Ferrington

NOTE: I wondered if the surname Billy or Belly could be Petty but it definitely looks like a 'B' not 'P' (even though the sound could have
been mistaken) also, I don't see a cross through the upper portion of the double L's. I've not heard of the surname Billy or Belly but that's
what it looks like so, your interpretation is as good as mine. I do believe the name is Betty.

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Obediah Bryant Will dated 3 Feb., 1800, Proved May, 1800
Chatham Co., N.C. Record of Wills, Vol. A (1798-1819) Pg. 168B, 169
N.C. State Archives film # C.022.80001

In the name of God Amen, I Obediah Bryant of Chatham County & State of North Carolina being in sound mind & memory blessed be to God as this
3rd day of Feb'y in the year of our Lord 1800, make & publish this my last -- (will and testament) {words not actually written} Witness in
manner and form following.
 That is to say
1st - I lend to my loving wife Sarah Bryant my plantation one bed & furniture, two basons, two Dishes 6 plates, 1 Horse named Dick, two cows
& calves, a sow & pigs, eight shoats, a negro wench, Tab, during her life time or widowhood and at her death or marrying to be equally
divided between the children that is now living with me. That is to say Jeremiah, Edy, Philip & Letty. I give and bequeath to my daughter Nancy
Right one horse a bed some geese? & a heifer, which she has already received, to her and her heirs forever.
I give & bequeath to my Daughter Mary Harby, one mare a bed, one cow & some geese ? which she has already received to her & her heirs forever.
I give and bequeath to my son Reading Bryant one mare & saddle, a cow & bed some hogs which he has now in possession to him & his heirs forever.
And my will and desire is that the rest of my property that has not already been now divided be equally divided between the rest of my
children, Jeremiah, Edy, Letty, Phillip & Letty (written twice), to them & their heirs forever. They paying an equal part of what is still due to
Mr. Stokes for a wench & child.
My will & desire also is that the plantation whereon I now live shall belong to my son Jeremiah Bryant at his mothers death or widowhood to
him  & his heirs forever.
My will & desire also is that my son Philip Bryant have a certain tract of land adjoining the old place containing 215 acres to him & his heirs,
forever.
And I do hereby make and ordain my worthy friends Elijah Harby, my son Jeremiah & my wife Exec'rs of this my last Will & Testament. In witness
whereof I the sd. Obediah Bryant have to this my last Will & Testament set my hand & seal this day & year first above written.
Signed Sealed published & declared by the sd Obediah Bryant the Testator as his last Will & Testament in the presence of us who were present at
the time of Signing & Sealing thereof
                        Obediah Bryant  {Seal}
Test.
Joseph Brantley
Abel Roling (his mark X)
                         Proved by the Oath of Abel Roling
                        at May 1800
                                J.R.
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ABSTRACT OF WILL OF William Burns - 28 May 1819 Will Bk B,  pg. 20 - Note: the abstracted version is not a verbatim version

Eldest Son - John Burns to receive 197 acres, where John A. Johnston now lives.

Son, Minter Burns 130 acres bought from my son John, who had purchased it from Edward Brantly

Son, Alvis, doesn't say what he gets.

3 grand children: Jane, Mary and William Cato Riddle

3 sons, John, Minter and Alvis, Executors.

Witnessed by: William Guthrie & Will Scurlock

`
Chatham Co., N.C. Record of Wills, Vol. A, pg. 192b
N.C. State Archives film # C.022.80001

James Bullard Will dated 15th or 18th day of June, 1801
MY NOTE:
This will is the most precious thing. Whoever wrote it was probably Scots and had a tremendous burr, then they couldn't spell, so the words
in it are extremely hard to figure out but, I typed it as written and if you will sound out the words you will make sense of it. (even if he does
repeat himself, a lot.)  A wonderful insight into the times of our ancestors!!

In the Name of God, Amen, I James Bullard the 18th ? day of June 1801, I James Bullard of North Carolina and Chatham County being very sick and
weak in Boody but in perfect mind and memory thanks be given unto God therefore callen to collin to mind the mortality of my boody and knowen
that is appointed for all men to deay do meake and order this my Loyst will and Testamoney that is to say princepable and first and fines/ of
all I give and refund my soual in to the hands of God that gave it and for my boody I recommend into the Earth to be burried in a christen like
and dearsent meaner at the descresson of my Eixurters Nothing doubten but at the genneril reserrecion I shall receve the same again by the
imglidy prower of God and as touchen such worrily esteat whearn with is treath ____ pleased ?? God to bless me with in this life I give devis
and dispoase of same in the follern maner and from
fires of all my just deabets to be paid out of my esteat impurmis
I give and bequath unto Molly my well beloved wife my planteasson and stock and houssul good and forrenatuore all oneralby? one bead and
forreter (furniture?) and one wheat (white?) heffer I leave to my deaughter Nancy at Maregh (marriage) or 18 years old an to my son Ambros
a young coalt now tucken and one? cow and my Loving wife to heave possession? of my plantesson and other things menchened durran her life
or widdowhood freeley to posses
I Leave to my son Thomas and Laisey (Lacy?) and Elisebeth and James Bullerd all my children five shillings at my well beloved wife death the
plantian and all other things beloning to it or is to be soald and equeley divided amoungst my six children I Leave my Loved wife and my
son Thomas Bullerd my holey and soley my Exetuers of this my last will and teastemaney in any before this time menchened and bequeatheaed this
this and no other to be my laist will and teasetement in in witness wheairof I heave hear on seat my hand and seaell the deay and yearr
above written
Sinned Seaelled and deleaved by the sd. his  layst will and teastemoney
in the praisentess of us
                        James Bullard  {Seal}
James Sellars
John (his mark "X" Bollun
Ordery (his mark "X" Mangum
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Richard Burt Will - November 1791 - no day or probate date

In the Name of God amen November in the year 1791 this being my Last Will and Testament___ I do hearby Lend to my beloved wife Mereing
(Mourning?) Burt all I possess In during her life or widowhood but my Negore Jack and him to be sold by my Exetr's Mr. Petter Quals & my
Brother Young Burt and the money put to Intrest
Wit
John Dillard
Benjamin ( his X mark) Drummon
Signed Richard Burt
A Copy Test John Ramsey, C.C>
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Will of Luke Bynum, Chatham Co., NC.  Vol. A, 1798-1819
pg. 256, 257 NC State Archives Microfilm # C022.8001

In the name of God Amen, I Luke Bynum of the State of North Carolina and Chatham County being weak of body but of sound mind and memory and 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 my last will and testament and revoking all former wills by me made.
First of all I recommend my soul unto God and my body to be buried in a Christian burial and in touching my worldly good which it hath please God to bless me with I will and disperse of them in the following manner viz't
My will is that all my just debts be paid: and the remainder of my estate I disperse as followeth:-
Item. I lend unto my beloved wife during her life time all my plantation that I have not divided off to my son William Bynum: also my Negroes as followeth . Ned , Keser, Phebe, Hardy and Joe during her natural life and I lend unto my wife three feather Beds and furniture.
Item. I lend unto my beloved wife all my stock of every kind during her life time and all my working tools and Household and Kitchen furniture. Item. I give unto my son Tapley Bynum Ten dollars out of my estate after my wife's death. Item. I give unto my Daughter Sarah Sellars, one Negro Girl, in payment for a Horse I owe Robert Sellars for after my wife's death. Item I give unto my Daughter Patsey Snipes Fifty Dollars to be paid out of my estate after my wife's death. Item. I give unto Thomas Snipes One dollar to be paid out of my estate after my Wife's death.
Item. I give unto my son James Bynum after my Wife's decease, one Negro Boy named Hardy. and one Negro woman named Phebe, One Negro Girl Named Juda .
Item. I give unto my son Mark Bynum after my wife's decease One Negro Man named Ned and one Negro Boy named Peter.
 Item. I give unto my son William Bynum Three Hundred Acres of Land, be more or less it being all my tract of land that I now hold after my wife's deceased: Also I give unto my son William, one Negro Man named Kesar and one Negro Boy named Joe after my decease: Also I give unto my son William all my stock of any kind and all my working tools and Household and Kitchen furniture, after my wife's decease:
Item. I give unto my daughter Eady Richerson One Hundred Dollars to be paid out of my estate after my Wife's decease.
Item. I give unto my daughter Milly Farrer after my wife's death, one Negro Girls named Phebe, and One Horse and one Cow and Calf after my Wife's decease.
 Item. I give unto my grandson Jorial Farrar, one feather Bed after my wife's decease. I do hereby make and ordain my worthy friends Mark Bynum and William Bynum Executors of this my last will and testament. In witness whereof I the said Luke Bynum  have to this my last will and testament set my hand & seal this seventh day of December in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and nine.
Signed Sealed and declared in to this last will and testament in the presence of us
William Hadley Sr.
James Council
William Hadley Jr. (his mark)     Luke Bynum (his mark)
Proved May 1810
by Wm. Hatley, Jr.


 

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