June 2005 - James Kidney's Will
Following is the will of James Kidney, son of Jacobus [Robert Isaac, John/Jan]and Sara DuBois Kidney. He was born in 1785 in Rhinebeck Flats, Dutchess, NY and died in Richmondale, Jefferson, Ross, OH. He appears to have been married three times, to Elanna Bunton, Sarah Shopshire, and Catherine Bunton.
James Kidney, Dec'd, FHL #281662
I, James Kidney of the county of Ross and state of Ohio, considering the uncertainty of this mortal life and being of sound mind and memory (blessed by almighty God for the same), do make and publish this my last will and testament in manner and form following that is to say,
First, it is my will that funeral expenses and all just debts be fully paid.
Second, the house and lot Number 27 in the town of Richmond, Ross County, Ohio formily (sic) belong to James Tomlinson and by him sold to Joseph Odel (sic) occupied as a tavern stand and sold by said Odel to Austin French and by him sold to me, I give to Austin French his heirs and assigns forever provided he pay to my four children in an equal portion of the value of the said house and lot, said house and lot to be appraised by three disinterested persons to be apointed (sic) by the proper authority. Now the names of the four children which I want the proceeds of the said house and lot divided among are first Hannah, second Sarah, third Mina, and fourth Hester their heirs and assigns forever.
Now the condition of the above are sutch (sic) that if the said Austin French shall pay to the said heirs the amount above stated with one year after my death he is to retain one fifth of the value of said house and lot as his dower and if he shall fail to pay to the above mentioned heirs their portion within one year the said house and lot go to my executor to be sold and the proceeds to be divided equaly (sic) between the above named children, the said Austin French to receive an equal proportion with the above named heirs.
Third, my son Newton to have five hundred dollars out of my personal property or the proceeds theiroff (sic).
Fourth, Rebecca, wife of Wm. Mathis (sic, Mathews) to have four hundred dollars.
Fifth, to Ann Maria wife of John Tomlinson fifty dollars over and above the one hundred and fifty dollars which I have already deeded to her in hand.
Sixth, to my daughter Mahaley's heirs viz Frank and Augusta Bell, ten dollars a piece after they become of age.
Seventh, to my grandson Alvin Kidney, son of my son John Kidney, two hundred dollars.
Eighth, to my grand daughter Almira, wife of Balis Simpson. five dollars.
Ninth, and I furthermore appoint James R. Bradford my executor, dated this 7th day of March one thousand eight hundred and fifty seven.
James Kidney, by his mark.