Will Book __, Page 64
May 3, 1854
Proven: June Term, 1854

I, William D. Brooks do make and publish this as my last Will and Testament, hereby revoking and making void all other wills by me at any time made.

First. I desire that all my funeral expenses and debts be paid as soon after my death as possible out of any money I die possessed of, or may come first into the hands of my Executor or Administrator.

Secondly. I give and bequeath to my wife Susannah…all the interest that I have in 160-acre land warrant which will be located in Missouri, Newton County. Also to have one gray mare and colt, one four-horse wagon, one yoke of oxen and two milch cows, household and kitchen furniture.

Thirdly. I direct that my lands, all where I now live, be sold and all the balance of my personal property, after giving to my wife Susannah the above-named property, that my wife have a child’s part of the money arising from the sale of my property.

Fourthly. I give and bequeath to each of my children (to wit): Margaret Mooney, George Brooks, James Brooks, Cillina Paschal, Mary Webb, Susannah Bassett, Lafayette Brooks, Thomas Brooks, John Brooks, Rachael Paschal, Albert Brooks, Leah Brooks, Nancy Brooks, I now give to each of the above named children an equal portion of the money arising from the sale of my land and personal property, each of them to have their part as soon as my Executor or Administrator may have time to sell and collect as the law directs, except those who are now minor children. Their portion I direct remain in the hands of my Executor or Administrator until they become of age or (are) competent to manage for themselves.

Fifthly. I also direct my two sons John and Albert have one horse each to be bought by my Executor…out (of) any money that I may die possessed (of) when they become 21 years of age. The above horses to be worth $65.00.

Sixthly. I…nominate my son James Brooks my Executor. In witness whereof I do this my last will set my hand and seal. This 3rd day of May, 1854.

Wm. D. Brooks (seal)

Witnesses:

John Altom
S. Brooks

This Hawkins County Will was transcribed by one of the following volunteers:  Audrae Mathis; Gary Fletcher; Betty Mize; Diana Arney; Karen Negron, Kathey Welder.