Will Book __, Page 374
Proven: Oct. Term 1855

I John McWilliams of the County of Hawkins and State of Tennessee do make this my last Will & Testament, hereby revoking and making void all other wills by me made at any time.

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

Item 2. I do will all my landed Estate consisting of one-third part of the tract of land that I now live on. Also, a small tract purchased of John Kinkead, and a small entry to my grandson Joseph McWilliams, a son of a legitimate [sic] child who I do acknowledge as my son whose name was James McWilliams.

Item 3. I will to Margaret Smith daughter of C. Smith one Bureau, choice of two.

Item 4. I do will that all my personal property be sold by Executor after giving ten days’ notice to the highest bidder on a credit of twelve months.

Item 5. I do will that my two negro slaves, to wit: Dol & Masadami a shall be divided equally between my brother Andrew, sister Nancy, and the proceeds of the sale of my personally [sic] after my debts is paid to be equally divided between my (brother) Andrew McWilliams and Nancy my sister.

Lastly. I appoint Robert Cooper as my lawful Executor.

In testimony whereof I do set my hand and seal, in presence of the subscribing witnesses. The Executor is not be (required) to give security. This 13th day of May, 1855.

John McWilliams (seal)

Attest:

H. Hamilton
P. Critz

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