Will of James Porter

Gates County, North Carolina, Wills, Book 3 (1838-1867), page 75.

Contributed by Mary Looney

I, JAMES PORTER, of the county of Gates and state of North Carolina, being of sound mind but considering the uncertainty of my earthly existence, do make and declare this my last will and testament as follows viz.

Item 1st. I give and bequeath to my wife (after all my just debts are paid) all my estate consisting of lands, stock of every kind, horse, hogs, cattle, and household and kitchen furniture, corn, fodder, peas and in fine all my property of every kind to be kept and owned by her for the support and maintenance of herself and my little children JESSE, JOHN, ELIZABETH, MARY, AND SARAH and, at the death of my wife, all the property that may be on hand is to be equally divided between all my then living children.

And lastly, I do hereby appoint HENRY A. MORGAN my executor to all intents and purposes to sell off such property as may be best spared by my wife for the purpose of paying off my just debts provided my notes, bonds, and accounts do not settle off the same. In witness whereof, I, the said JAMES PORTER, do hereunto set my hand and seal the 12th of January 1853. Signed, sealed, and delivered in the presence of us as witnesses: JOHN PORTER (Jt), MILES PARKER.

February Court 1853, exhibited by HENRY A. MORGAN, executor; proved by JOHN PORTER.