Will Book __, Page 457
Proven: April Term 1855

I John Shanks do make and publish this my last Will and Testament hereby revoking and making void all other wills by me at any time made.

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

Secondly. I give and bequeath to my son Andrew Shanks, my son Jacob and my son Daniel Shanks all the home plantation together with the several parcels of land adjoining it which belong to me, equally between them.

Thirdly. I give and bequeath to my daughters Elizabeth Starnes and Polly Shanks $150.00 each, which sum of money is charge on the lands in the second bequest.

Nancy Davis, my daughter, also having been heretofore provided for fully and $50.00 over which is to be deducted from her share of my personal property.

Fourthly. I give and bequeath to my son Michael Shanks $200.00 charged also on the lands named in the Second Bequest.

My son John Shanks and my son David Shanks having been heretofore fully provided for in their interest in my home lands named in the second bequest.

Fifthly. I desire that all my personal property be sold and the proceeds of it, together with any money that may remain at my decease and I direct that the same be divided equally among all my children named above, due respect being observed to the deduction to be made in Nancy Davis‘ share.

Lastly. I do hereby nominate and appoint Andrew Shanks and Joseph B. Galbraith my Executors.

In witness whereby I do to this my will set my hand and seal This 16th day of May A. D. 1853.

John Shanks (seal)

Signed, sealed and published in our presence and we have subscribed our names hereto in the presence of the Testator This 16th day of May, 1853.

H. Watterson
O. C. Miller
Edward Watterson
Wm. Hutchisson

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