Individual Details

Probate

Case number 22367
Essex County, MA: Probate File Papers, 1638-1881. Probate of Joseph Poor, 19 Apr 1815, case number 22367.
Will 17 March 1814
Rather than the traditional "In the name of God amen," Joseph Poor begins his will "This is the last will and testament of me Joseph Poor of Danvers in the county of Essex & Commonwealth of Massachusetts." His beloved wife (not named) receives all the personal estate and improvement on all the remainder of the estate not otherwise bequeathed as long as she remains a widow. Son Nathan receives half the tanyard and all the buildings that go with it. Daughter Martha receives $100 which is equivalent to what his other daughters have received. He bequeaths to his wife and each of his children (except Daniel who has received his share) $100 which is their respective share of $1000 which he had received following the death of his son George. Following the decease of his wife, all the real estate is to be divided in nine equal shares among his nine children although amounts that any of the children owe him will be figured into the amount of the bequest. Sons Nathan and Joseph are named executors. The children receiving legacies are Joseph Poor, Sylvester and Mary Proctor, Richard and Hannah Osborn, Enoch Poor, Benjamin and Sally Jacobs, Nathan Poor, Rufus and Betsey Wyman, and Martha Poor. Widow is Mary Poor. The estate was valued at $5,083.24.