Will Book __, Page 76
June 15, 1860
Proven: Sept. Term, 1860

I, Samuel Bryant, considering the uncertainty of this mortal life, and being of sound mind and memory, do make and publish this my last will and testament in manner and form following, that is to say:

First. I give and bequeath unto my beloved wife Sarah Bryant the lands I now live on and possess during her natural life, provided in the event she and my executor together believe they can better her condition by selling the land and purchasing others — or the proceeds kept unless she should come to actual want. If so relieve her wants by using the means in her possession.

I also further give to my wife Sarah all the rest, residue and remainder of my personal estate, goods and chattels of whatever kind and nature for her use and benefit during her life, and after her death, if anything remains, it shall be sold and the proceeds equally divided among my three daughters (to wit) Mary Elizabeth, Martha Ann, Lucinda Cornelia, and as Mary E., now Mary E. McAnnally and Martha A., now Martha A. Wolfe have had some property (namely) a bed, saddle and cow – for which I wish Lucinda Cornelia to be made equal by my Executors.

I hereby appoint my beloved wife Sarah and Leeroy Wolfe my Executors of this my last will and testament by revoking all former wills by me made.

In witness whereof I have set my hand and seal this 15th day of June, one thousand eight hundred and sixty.

Samuel [X] Bryant (seal) (his mark)
Attest:

B. Blackburn
B. Golden

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