Individual Details

Will

Essex County, MA: Probate File Papers, 1638-1881.Online database. AmericanAncestors.org. New England Historic Genealogical Society, 2014. Case 10299

In his will dated 16 January 1817 (probate 7 April 1826), beloved wife Phebe receives all the household goods and furniture that she brought with her to the marriage, and as long as she remains a widow, the use and improvement of all of the household goods that she chooses. She also receives use of half of the house and part of the cellar. There are also several specific provisions for her maintenance that are to be provided annually by the executor. She also receives the interest on $1,000 calculated as $60 annually and this is to be paid to her semiannually. If this is not sufficient, the executor is to provide an amount that is needed for her support. James also notes that he has conveyed lands and advanced money to some of his children more than others, and that at his decease any debts his children owe him will be canceled. He has taken these amounts into consideration in his planned disbursement of his estate. His children are also to cancel any demands that have against their father. Sons Francis and Joseph will shares in lands previously owned by James Frye of Andover in terms of quality and quantity and will also share use of the cider house. Sons Francis and Joseph also share the farming tools and livestock. The personal estate is to be divided into equal eighths and divided among his six living children and his grandchildren children of Robinson Frye and Joanna Kimball who are deceased. The children named are James Frye, Francis Frye, Joseph Frye, Jeremiah Frye, Daniel Frye, and Hitty Webster. Each of the children receive other specific bequests of varying amounts. Daniel, Jeremiah, and the heirs of Robinson each receive land bequests. Sons Francis and Joseph are named executors of the estate.


The will has bequests to wife Phebe, six living children, and to the heirs of his deceased children Joanna and Robinson. The will needs to be reviewed.