James Collins  May 1815 Last Will and Testament

   In the name of God Amen, I James Collins of Franklin County being Sound of mind and Perfect in memory (Blessed be God) do this Twenty second day of May 1815 make constitute and ordain this my last will and testament in manner and form following Viz

  Item, I lend to my beloved Esther Collins during her natural life, all my lands and property of every knd whatsoever; and after her death it is my will and desire that the whole of my Estate of every kind whatsoever should be sold and the monies arising from the sale thereof should be equally divided between my children and grandchildren in the following manner Viz

Item, To James Collins, William Collins, Henry Collins, Elisha Collins, Dixon Collins (Son of Esther Gilliam) and William Collins son of David Collins each half a share.

 Item, To Whitney Collins and Elisha Collins, (sons of Jesse Collins) each half a share. Item To James Collins and Milley Collins Children of David Collins half a share each.

Item, To Doctor Murphey son of Parker Murphey A full share.

  And I do hereby nominate and appoint my Sons James Collins and William Collins Executors to this my last will andTtestament. In witness whereof I have set my hand & Seal the day and year first above written.

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James  X   Collins

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Witness
Derham Hill
Van Leonard

 P.S. It is further my desire that my Exors above mentioned should act as Guardians for my grand children until they arrive at full age or of lawful age to choose for themselves. Witness my hand & seal the day and date written.

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         James X Collins
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Witness
Derham Hill
Van Leonard, Jurat

Recorded in Book F, folio 238 (hard to read, no date given)