Will Book __, Page 455
Proven: July 6, 1851

State of Tennessee Hawkins County In the Name of god, Amen.

I William Skelton being of sound mind and memory, knowing at the same time the uncertainty of life and the certainty of death, I wish now to dispose of my property such as has been pleased [sic] God to bless me with.

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

1st. I direct that my funeral expenses and all my just debts be paid as soon 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.

2nd. I will one hundred dollars to my sister Polly Chesnutt.

3rd. I will to my sister Nancy Williams $50.00.

4th. I will to my sister Winney White one dollar to her or to her heirs.

5th. I will my interest in the land to William Chesnutt, the land where William now lives and also $250.00, and also three head of cattle.

6th. I will one third of my interests in land to Thomas Chesnutt, the land where Thomas now lives.

7th. I will that the Executors to my will sell to the highest bidder the balance of my interest in the tract of land where Thomas lives and the proceeds to be equally divided among the heirs of Polly Chesnutt, my sister.

8th. And last, I will that Thomas Chesnutt & David Reynolds be my Executors to manage my affairs

and in witness whereof I do to this my will set my hand and seal. This 15th day of November, 1850.

William [X] Skelton (his mark)

Witness:

Thos. Smith
David Reynolds

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