Will Book __, Page 153
Proven: March Term, 1853

In the Year of Our Lord and Eight Hundred and fifty two, November the 30th day of 1852,

I, John Dodson have this day made & do make this my last Will and Testament and publish this as the same, hereby revoking and making void all other wills by me at any time made &c.

2nd. My will and desire is that as soon after my decease as is practicable, I wish my just debts and funeral Expenses be paid by my representative or representatives out of any money that may first come to my said representatives out of any money that may first come to my said representatives

3rd. I give to my wife Rebecca Dodson all my land and all the buildings thereunto belonging during her life or widowhood with this exception, viz:

4th. I will to my little son William Dodson a certain piece of land which I now describe as follows: Beginning at a stake in the branch below my house, E. Walker‘s corner. Then eastwardly to a white oak corner on Couche‘s line. Then with Couche‘s line to the foot of the mountain. Then with Anna Coward‘s line to the beginning. This piece of land I desire that my wife have full control of the same during her life or widowhood, or until my son is twenty one years of age, than to him or his representative. I also give to my son William my Rifle gun, shot pouch and horn, and an equal portion of the proceeds of the sale of my perishable property should there be any.

5th. My will is that my six other children have all of my tract of land not otherwise disposed of, Viz: My daughter Lany (Delany) Dodson, son Arthur Dodson, my daughters Ann Dodson, Elizabeth Dodson, Mary Dodson, Winny Dodson &c.

Lastly. I do nominate and appoint my friend Edward Walker my Executor of my last Will and Testament.

In witness whereof I do_____this my last will set my hand and seal.

This 30th day of November, 1852.

John [X] Dodson (seal) (his mark)

Signed, sealed and published in our presence the day and date above mentioned.

Attest:

William Smith
Edward Walker

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