Book 2, Page 133
Filed and Proven: April 6, 1874

I John Rouse of the County of Hawkins and State of Tennessee being of sound mind and of disposing but somewhat frail in body do make and publish this my last will and testament.

First – I command my soul to God who gave it.

Second – That my funeral expenses should be paid out of my money and property, that I may have on hand at my decease.

3rd – I will and bequeath that my wife Catharine shall have my black horse and his saddle and also my household and kitchen furniture and my mansion house and out buildings and garden and her maintenance during her natural life off my farm.

4th – I will and bequeath unto my son Jacob Rouse all my land lying west of the creek, being the line on the east or northeast surrounded by the lands of _. _. Gillenwaters and others including my mansion where I now live.

5th – I will that my land east of the creek be sold (by my executor herein after appointed) to the highest bidder, on a credit of twelve months to be sold at the time that my other property shall be sold herein after described land the money for said land be equally divided between my five children, namely, James, Alfred, Isaac, Mary Ann and Nancy Malinda.

6th – I will that all my personal property, that I have not given my beloved wife Catharine, be sold on a credit of twelve months and the money equally divided between my five children above named James, Alfred, Isaac, Mary Ann and Nancy Malinda.

7th – I will also that at the death of my wife Catharine that all the remainder of my personal (?) be sold on a credit of twelve months and the proceeds thereof be equally divided between my five children above named James, Alfred, Isaac, Mary Ann and Nancy Malinda.

It is my wish and desire and I hereby nominate my friend Abraham Molsbee, my executor of this my last will and testament.

In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my and seal this the 5th day of January 1874.

John [X] Rouse (his mark)

Signed in presence of:

Abraham Molsbee
Hincheu Gilliam

Transcribed by Betty Mize