Edgecombe County, NC – Miscellaneous Wills, A-B ************************************************ Copyright. All rights reserved. http://www.usgwarchives.net/copyright.htm http://www.usgwarchives.net/nc/ncfiles.htm ************************************************ File contributed for use in USGenWeb Archives by: Tommy Colbert clycolbert@aol.com ARMSTRONG, ROBERT, EDGECOMBE WB D/65 Archives 037.801 1798; In the name of God Amen, I Robert Armstrong of the County of Edgecombe and state of North Carolina being through the abundant mercy and goodness of almighty tho weake in body yet of a sound and perfect understanding and memory do constitute this my last will and testament and desire it to be received by all as such ??? I most humbly bequeath my soul to God my maker beseeching his most gracious acceptance of it tho the all sufficient merit and mediation of my most compassionate Redeemer Jesus Christ who gave him self to be an atonement for my sines and is able to save to the utmost all that come unto God by him saving th even lived to make ????? and them and who I trust will not reject me returning penitent sinner whin I came to him for mercy in this hope and ??? to render up my soul with comfort humbly beseeching the most blessed and Glorious trinity one God most holy most merciful and gracious to prepare me from the time of my dissolution and then to take me to him self into that peace and rest and in comparable ??? city which he has prepared for those that love and fear his holy name amen bless be God ??? I give my body to the ??? from where it was taken in full assurance of its resurrection from thence at the last day as for my burial I desire it may be done without pomp as state at the discretion of my dear wife and my executor hereafter named Who I doubt not will manage it with all requisite prudence as to my worldly estate I will and positively order that all my debts be paid; Item- I give and bequeath to my dear and loving wife Mary the land and plantation where I now live during her natural life with ??? ??? then to return to my son Gray also one feather bed and furniture also one pine chest one field of corn which is called the orchard field and five hundred wate of good fat porke; Item-- I give and bequeath to my son Matthew Armstrong one tract or parcel of land which I bough of Jacob Battle with part of the home plantation beginning at the mouth of a little branch near the corner then up the said branch near the head then ??? up through the flat meadow to a log path then along the ??? path to the back line; Item-- lend to John Long the old shop place as long as he pleases to stay at it; Item-- The (Page(s) missing) After the death of my wife the remainder of my estate to be divided equally between Joseph Armstrong Elizabeth land Mary Long Susanah Armstrong and Sarah Brake; I constitute and affirm Jacob Battle and Joseph Armstrong ??? of this my last will and testament and trustees for my children in witness whereof I have unto set my hand and fix my seal this 3 day September 1798; signed Robt Armstrong; witness-Anderson Sturdivant, Wm Faulk; Edgecombe County ?? November Court 1798. The within Will of Robert Armstrong decd. was produced in open court proved by the oaths of Anderson Sturdivant and William Faulk the subscribing witnesses thereto & Joseph Armstrong one of the executors herein named was at the same time lawfully qualified thereto- Ordered that the Will be recorded; (test??) Edward Hall ?? CTC. Armstrong, Willie A. will, NC State Archives, Edgecombe Co. Wills, CR.037.801.1. Recorded in Will Book (7 or F), page 253. PROOF OF WILL for Willie A. Armstrong proved by oath of S.H. Cobb & W.H. Cobb, witnesses to said will, who said that they witnessed HER will, 31 Oct. 1908. EXECUTORS OATH, by James Hales, 31 Oct. 1908. EXECUTORS OATH by O.P. Cook, 31 Oct 1908. LETTERS TESTIMENTARY states that Oliver Cook and James Hales are executors, estate consists of real and personal property worth about $1000, Carrie Cook, Ida Blanch Hales & Robert Fussell are the parties entitled to said property, signed O.P. Cook, 31 Oct. 1908. WILL- I Willie A. Armstrong of Edgecombe Co. “being of sound mind” Item- my executor shall give my body a decent burial; Item- to my beloved daughter Carrie Cook and her heirs of her body, ten acres of land additional to the lot already deeded to her, beginning at south west corner of Carrie Cook lot and then nearly south along the line of Willie A. (Crocker) to the end of my lane and then nearly east along my line to such distance as to make at right angles back to canal in White Swamp ten acres of land, together with all buildings; Item- to my beloved daughter, Ida Blanch Hales, the balance of the land I have lived on after the above will has been complied with, to her to own or sell as she may deem proper; Item- to Robert Fussell $100, to be paid $50 by Ida B. Hales and Carrie Cook $50, the land is to remain responsible to Robt. For same money until paid; Item- sons in law Oliver Cook and James Hales to be my lawful executors; signed W.A. Armstrong, 14 Dec. 1906, wit. S.H. Cobb, W.H. Cobb. BAKER, DAVID G., date of will 12 Sep 1844, date recorded Nov Ct 1844, Edge. Co. book F, page 313; My whole estate shall remain together as joint stock of my wife and children, and my farm managed by my executor for the support and education of my infant children. My father MOSES BAKER is to be guardian of my children, Ex my father MOSES BAKER, signed David G. Baker (X), wit D. WILLIAMS, WILLIAM S. BAKER; Codicil 22 Sept. 1844- My executor is to purchase a "trusty Negro fellow" who may manage my farm, wit. William S Baker, John Pitt. Baker, Moses, date of will 28 AUG 1854, date recorded Aug. CT 1857, Edge. Co. will book G, page 146; Wife ELONEY BAKER- Negroes John, Winny, and Mariah, $200, horses, cows, farm utensils, buggy, railroad stock, etc. Wife- lend Negroes Jackson, Drew, Ann, Lawrence for her lifetime, as well as beds, bureau, secretary, eight-day clock, two looking glasses. Wife- all the cleared land on the home tract, adj. the Reedy Branch. Son WILLIAM S. BAKER- Negroes Readdin and Bill, also the home tract of land containing 400 acres, stock in the Wilmington & R. RR Company and the Manchester R.R. Company. Son WILLIAM S. BAKER- land in Nash County containing 650 acres which I purchased of JOSIAH ELLINOR and Negroes Caesar, Harry, Mourning, Phebe, Betty, and Sylla, as well as various furniture now in the possession of my daughter POLLY PITT, all of this to be placed in trust for my daughter POLLY PITT for her support and free from the control of her husband, and at her death this property shall be conveyed to her children or grandchildren in place of their deceased parents, with exception of LEAH ARMSTRONG (widow of GABRIEL ARMSTRONG and the daughter of said POLLY PITT) and THOMAS PITT (son of said POLLY PITT), who shall have no further part of my estate. Son WILLIAM S. BAKER- stock in the Wilmington & R. Railroad Co. for the use of POLLY PITT, and at her death to convey same to her children or grandchildren, with the exception of LEAH ARMSTRONG and THOMAS PITT. Grandsons WILLIAM PITT, MOSES PITT, and JOHN PITT, JR.- one share of stock in the Wilmington & R. Railroad Co. Granddaughter LEAH ARMSTRONG - land in Edgecombe Co. adj. MRS. PARKER, and GRAY ARMSTRONG known as the Crossroads Place and containing 170 acres, also Negroes Cherry, Garry, and Nancy. Grandchildren GEORGE W. WALKER and VESTA WALKER- my WINNY WILLIAMS land in Edgecombe County containing 150 acres, Negroes Ester, Eliza, Lorzeno, and Wright. I appoint my wife ELONEY BAKER guardian to my grandchildren GEORGE AND VESTA WALKER. Granddaughter VESTA WALKER - bed. Grandsons JOHN BAKER and JESSE BAKER- Negro Ben and my RUFFIN land adj. SAMUEL P. JENKINS and containing 200 acres, and if either dies without issue the survivor will inherit, but if both die without issue, this property shall fall to their next of kin who shall be the issue of my body, with the exception of NAOMI ARMSTRONG (wife of BAKER AMRSTRONG) and her sister MARTHA ANN BAKER, for they shall not share in my estate. Remaining money to be divided as follows: 1/4 to my son WILLIAM S. BAKER, 1/4 to my grandsons JOHN BARNES, JOSEPH (NEED TO DOUBLE CHECK SIGN, WIT.) Barnes, Joseph, date of will 11 May 1824, date recorded Aug. Ct. 1824, In the name of God Amen, I Joseph Barnes of the County of Edgecombe being of sound mind and memory thanks be to God for the same do make and ordain this my last will and testament in manner and form following that is to say to wit: first Of all my will is that all my just debts be paid by my executors. Item I give to my wife Sarah Barnes three negros by the name of Luke, Bob and Rachal, two feather beds and furniture and one mare by the name of the (whiss) and my riding chair and three hundred dollars in cash to her and her heirs forever. Item I give to my daughter Elizabeth Dew all the property that she hath received to her and her heirs forever. Item I give to my daughter Polley Robbins all the property that she hath all ready received to her and her heirs forever. Item I give to my daughter Salley Thorn all the property that she hath all ready received to her and her heirs forever. Item I give to my daughter Nancey Barnes my negro girl Forten and one boy by the name of Frank one feather bed and furniture and seventy five dollars in cash to her and her heirs forever. Item I give to my daughter Penny Barnes my negro girl Hannah and one boy by the name of Toby, one feather bed and furniture and seventy five dollars in cash to her and her heirs forever. Item I give to my daughter Celia Barnes my negro girl Rose and one boy by the name of Isaac, one feather bed and furniture and seventy five dollars in cash to her and her heirs forever. Item I give to my daughter Treecy Barnes my negro girl Clark and one boy by the name of Reddick one feather bed and furniture and seventy five dollars in cash also enough to git her a saddle and bridle worth (sixteen) dollars to her and her heirs forever. Item I give to my daughter Temperence Barnes my negro girl Dinah and one boy by the name of Jacob one feather bed and furniture and seventy five dollars in cash also enough to git her a saddle and bridle worth sixteen dollars to her and her heirs forever. Item I give to my daughter Martha Barnes my negro girl Milley and one boy by the name of David one feather bed and furniture and seventy five dollars in cash also enough to git her a saddle and bridle worth sixteen dollars to her and her heirs forever. Item I give all my lands to my two sons James (Barnes) and Dempsey Barnes only my wife’s lifetime in it. I give to my son James Barnes the lower part of my land and seventy five dollars in cash one feather bed and furniture, two cows and calves two sows and pigs one saddle and bridle enough to give him six months schooling and a soot (sic) of clothes and I lend him one mare by the name of (bunch) three years then I give him choice to keep the said mare or one of my coalts (sic) that is folded this spring to him and his heirs forever. Item I give to my son Dempsey Barnes the upper part of my land and seventy five dollars in cash one feather bed and furniture two cows and calves two sows and pigs, one saddle and bridle and enough to give him six months schooling and a soot of clothes and I give him my brandy still after his mother’s death and I lend him one hors by the name of prince three years then I give him choice to keep the said horse or one of my coalts that is folded this spring to him and his heirs forever. All the rest of my property is to remain here for the benefit of my wife and family till my son Dempsey Barnes should arive to the age of twenty one years except what I shall mention that is two negros Peter and Dick and the Stanton Mare and the Lancaster hors and one half of my stock of cattle and my suitable hogs are to be fattened as usual and my family’s year’s provision to be taken out and the balance to be sold by my executors and the money arising from the sails is to be equally divided amongst all my children except my two sons James Barnes and Dempsey Barnes - when my son Dempsey Barnes should arrive to the age of twenty one years then I lend my wife three hundred acres of land where on I now live and two negros Jack and Jude three hors (craturs) five cows and calves and my Brandy still and all my cider casks all my plantation tools and house hold and kitchen furniture during her natural lifetime then the property is to be sold by my executors and the money arising there from is to be equally divided between all my children except my two sons James Barnes and Dempsey Barnes also when my son Dempsey Barnes arrives to the age of twenty one years then all my lands is to be divided equally to valuation between my two sons James Barnes and Dempsey Barnes to them and their heirs forever all (Bass) out hogs is to be sold the (?) legasis that are left in the will is to be paid (?) after my death and I do hereby authorize and nominate constitute and appoint my son in law Fredrick Robbins and my brothers Jesse Barnes and James Barnes Executors to this my last will and testament in witness where of I have here unto set my hand and seal this the 11 of May 1824. Signed sealed and acknowledged in presents of Arthur Robbins (X), Simon Robbins (X). Signed Joseph Barnes (no mark). Edgecombe County, August Court 1824. The within last will & testament of Joseph Barnes, dec’d was exhibited in open court for probate & was proven by the oath of Arthur Robbins & Simon Robbins the subscribing witnesses there unto and Fredrick Robbins, one of the executors named in the said will at the same time qualified thereto - ordered that the same be certified & the will recorded. Test. Michl Hearn, CC. NC Archives, Edgecombe Co. wills. Barnes, Nancey Barnes, date of will 23 May 1835, date recorded August Ct. 1835; In the name of God Amen I Nancey Barnes of the county of Edgecomb & State on North Carolina being in a low state of health but in sound mind and memory and calling to mind the mortality of my body and recollecting that it is appointed for all men once to die do make and ordain this my last will and testament. First of all I give and recommend my soul into the hands of Almighty God who gave it and my body I recommend to the earth to be buried a decent Christian burial at the discretion of my executor and as touching and concerning such worldly goods wherewith it hath pleased God to bless me I give and dispose of the same in manner following viz. Item I give and bequeath unto my brother in law Fredrick F. Robbins my negro Frank to him and his heirs forever. Item I give and bequeath unto the heirs of my brother in law Thomas Thorn my negro Forten to them and their heirs forever. Item I give and bequeath unto my brother in law James Deens my two little Negros Amos and Vilet to him & his heirs forever. Item I give and bequeath unto Martha Barnes, daughter of my brother Dempsey Barnes one hundred dollars to her and her heirs forever. Item I give and bequeath unto Nancey Robbins, daughter of Fredrick F. Robbins my bed and bedstead and all the furniture that belongs to it to her and her heirs forever. I leave my land and the residue of my estate to be sold and my debts to be paid and one hundred dollars to be taken out of it for Martha Barnes the residue of the money arising from the sale and my incomes I leave to be equally divided between my brother James Barnes and my brother in law John Dew to them and their heirs forever. Item I give all my wearing apparel to my two sisters to be equally divided between Dolley Robbins and Penny Deans to them and their heirs forever. And I hereby nominat constitute and appoint my trusty friend Dempsey D. Barnes executor to this my last will and testament. In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this 23rd. of May, 1835. Signed sealed and acknowledged in presents of (Attest) Joshua Baines, Henry (Thomas), Nancey Barnes (X). Edgecombe County August Ct. 1835. The within last will and testament of Nancy Barnes, dec’d was exhibited in open court for probate and was proven by the oath of Joshua Barnes one of the subscribing witnesses thereto and Dempsey D. Barnes the executor therein named qualified thereto. Ordered that the same be certified & the will recorded. Test. Michl. Hearn, CC. NC ARCHIVES, Edgecombe Co. Will file. Batemon, John will; Being sick but in sound mind and memory acknoledge this to be my last will and testament after payn all my just debts and fenuarl expences vz I give unto my beloved wife Liza Batmon one fether an feneture I also lend to my wife Lyid my land and plantation where I now live duren her life or widdwrhood. I give unto my son Ashal one fether bead and feneture and my land and plantation after my wifes decst or marrige to him and his ears forever. I also give unto my beloved daughter Poley Batmon one fether bead and feneture and one cow and calf to her and increase forever. I also leave my mare and two hundred acres of my land to be sold which is to be taken of the upper part of the tract of land to pay my debts and also leave all the rest of my estate to be e1qually divided betwin my wife and two children after my wifes death or marage I leave Isaac Farmer and Jese Farmer to be my executors This 11th day of Aust 1803. Signed John Batmon (X), wit. Micajah Pettaway, Williaby Etheredge (X), Jeremiah Etherge. Isaac appears to have qualified as executor. Proven in Nov. Ct. 1803 by oath of Micajah Pettaway and Willoby Etheradge. John Batemon will, 1832, NCA file CR.037.801.2. Boone, Mary, (Edgecombe Co.), will date 7 Mar. 1881, date recorded 4 May 1886, In the name of God... to (Cincinati) Price, all my estate real, personal and mixed, exe. Geo. W. Price, signed Mary Boone (X), wit. S.A. Arrington, J.R. Proctor. NC State Archives will file. BRAKE, JACOB, will date 26 Jan 1827, date proved Aug Ct 1830, Edge. Co. book F, page 26, original in archives, ...being weake and low in health of body...Wife MOURNING BRAKE - bed, loom woolen wheel, etc. Son JESSE BRAKE, daughter WINNIFRED JACKSON and son JACOB BRAKE- two dollars each. To ANDREW C. JACKSON (son of ELISHA W. JACKSON)- sheep. Remaining estate to BENJAMIN BRAKE, SPENCER BRAKE, JOSIAH BRAKE, JAMES BRAKE, AMOS BRAKE, and ABSILA BRAKE (the children of my son JACOB BRAKE). Any remaining money to the said BENJAMIN, SPENCER, JOSIAH, JAMES, AMOS and ABSILA when they come of age, signed Jacob Brake (X), Ex. friend MOSES PRICE, Wit. MOSE SPICER, ARCHIBALD WHITFIELD Bracewell, Richard, date of will 27 Aug 1804, date proved Feb. Ct. 1807 ... “In the name of God” ...all real and personal property to be divided between my wife, Charlotte and her heir or heirs begotten by me. If I leave no heir lawfully begotten all my property to said wife, Charlotte and her heirs, Executor- my friends Joseph Bell and James Southerland, sign. Richd Bracewell, wit. Malachi (Danncy or Penney) and David Randolph. Abstracted from copy of original, NC Archives CR.037.801.4 , 6-24-01., LDS film 0018851 at Va. Beach FHC BRASWELL, Abner, date of will 9 Apr 1807, Proved May Ct. 1807, “weake in body bot of sound mind and memory”...pay my just debts- wife Nancy Braswell to have ½ all my estate real and personal during her natural life- to daughter Zilpha Braswell the other ½ of my estate to be managed by my executors and to be paid to her at her marriage or when she becomes of age. If daughter dies without heirs, her share to my wife for her natural life or widowhood, then to my brothers and sisters children. Executors James Southerland and Shadrack Collins. Sign. Abner Braswell (X). Wit. Lewis Fort, John Williams. Abstracted from copy of original, NC Archives CR.037.801.4 , 6-24-01 & LDS film 0018851 at Va. Beach FHC. Braswell, Adeline, date of will Dec. 17, 1910, date recorded 29 March 1911, all estate left after funeral expenses and debts to my son Green Cutchin, sometime known as Green Whitehead, executor M.C. Braswell, signed Adeline Braswell (X), wit. Geo. W. Strickland, W.H. ( ). NOTE: WILL ON PAPER WITH HEADING OF M.C. BRASWELL, SUCCESSOR TO T.P. BRASWELL & SON. Abstracted from copy of original, NC Archives CR.037.801.4 , 6-24-01. Braswell, Alice S., date of will 9 Aug. 1929, date recorded 1935, all property to my four daughters Mattie May B. Gorham, Vivian Bryan Braswell, Alice Bryan Braswell and Emily Elizabeth Braswell share and share alike, if any one of them should die leaving child or children, child or children shall take parent’s share; daughters Mattie May B. Gorham, Vivian Bryan Braswell, Alice Bryan Braswell and Emily Elizabeth Braswell executrixes, signed Alice S. Braswell, wit. J.P. Bunn, A.L. Hoffman. Recorded in will book M, page 152. Abstracted from copy of original, NC Archives CR.037.801.4 , 6-24-01. Braswell, Archelaus, date of will 28 April 1899, date recorded 11 Aug. 1902, Item 1; William T. Braswell, I give a tract of land it being the tract I bought of (Rev.) Bullock known as the Parker Place together with the tract I bought from J.M. Mullen ( ), it being a part of the Mary Eliza Jenkins land, adjoining the lands of J.R. Bradley, J.M. Mayo and others, being situate on the north side of Swift Creek and where Jas. W. Braswell now lives, the same containing about 675 acres, reference is made to the deeds for said land, in trust for the use of my son, Jas. W. Braswell during his natural life and after his death the said William J. shall hold same as trustee for the use and benefit of the wife of said Jas. W. and his children, that after the youngest child becomes 21 years of age the trustee shall convey said land unto said children of said Jas. W. Braswell subject to a home for life for the widow of said Jas. W. Braswell if she be living and unmarried. Item 2 unto my youngest son William J. Braswell, I give the following tract of land, it being the land where he now lives; to wit. known as the Coffield Land where (Musus) Allen formerly lived being a part of tract and for a fuller description reference is made to a plat survey made of the said Coffield or (Moses) Allen tract of land, made by Redding Pittman, survivor, dividing said tract into two parts, the part which is in possession of W.T. Braswell, containing about 700 acres. Item 3, to my daughter, Maud A. Bullock, I give that part of the (Masur) Allen land not given to William T. Braswell and for a more fuller description reference is made to the plat of said land made by Redding Pittman and which the said Maud now has possession of for several years past containing about 600 acres and after her death to her heirs. Item 4, To my son, James C. Braswell, I give the tract of land I bought of J.H. Cutchins, known as the ( ) Nicholsun land lying on the south side of Fishing Creek adjoining the lands of H.B.A. Pitt’s heirs, T.P. Braswell and others containing about 658 acres and being situated in Nash Co. Item 5, I give to my daughter Alice Lee Joyner a tract of land on the south side of Tar River in Pitt County and known as the Jno. Peebles land for a fuller description see deed which I thing was made to me by said Peebles, containing 850 aces adjoining the lands of R.A. Cotten, Heame and others, for her life and after her death to her heirs. Item 6, to my daughter Helen Adrienne Hyman, I give a tract of land beginning in center of public road leading from Tarboro towards Whitakers at the head of a small ditch in the field near the old school house then north (73 ½) west to a stake at the intersection of two ditches then south 80 ½ west to a pine in a small branch at fork of branch then down and along the various courses and meanders of said branch to a black jack on the edge of a ditch in the branch then north 29 ½ west to a stake in fork of a ditch then north 18 ½ east to a stake in bend of ditch at a spring know as the Cutchin Spring then north 84 west to a corner to be established on the creek then up and along the center run of said creek to my and J.M. Cutchins’ corner then with and along the line of said Cutchin to said public road at the corner of said Cutchin and myself then along the center of said public road to the point of beginning containing 450 acres, to her and after her death to her heirs. Item 7, to my daughter Mary E. Braswell, I give the tract of land where I now reside, bounded on the north by (line) of the land which I have herein devised to my daughter Helen Adriene and on the east by the public road leading by my house to Speight’s chapel and coming in the center of said road with A. Braswell, Jr. near old (steve) and on south of (avenue) leading to farm and then with and along line of said A. Braswell to the creek then up and along the center of said creek to the corner o f the land which said Helen Adriene as herewithin described stated then along and with her line to the public road containing 450 acres. Item 8, to my son, Archelaus Braswell, Jr., I give a tract of land beginning in the center of the public road leading by my (home) to Speight’s Chapel near the old (store) and on south side of avenue leading to the farm then north 87 ½ west along a line of marked trees to a ditch across avenue then down said ditch south 40 ½ east to a small branch then down and along the various meanders of said branch to a stake near bridge in path leading to Pitt Hill then north 86 ½ west to ( ) stake at corner near bridge then south 79 west to a corner to be established at the creek then down and along the center run of said creek to the corner of Eliza J. Braswell and myself then along the line of said Eliza J. and myself to an old sweet gum our corner then along our line to the center of said Elliza J., R.H. Speight and myself at this corner there once stood a maple which has disappeared then along the line of R.H. Speight and myself to the public road at the corner of myself and said Speight then along and up said public road to the point of beginning, containing 500 acres. Item 9, I give the land herein mentioned on the condition that my personal property is not sufficient to pay my funeral expenses and debts, each devisee shall contribute a sufficient amount to pay such expenses and debts. Item 10, my property not herein devised shall be sold to pay my debts and funeral expenses and remainder shall be equally divided among my children, share and share alike. The share of Jas. W. shall be held in trust by William T. Braswell who shall pay the interest thereon to said Jas. Ww. and at his death the fund shall go to his children. Item 11, The proceeds of my insurance policy is to be divided equally among my children and if one of them be deceased, his or her share to go to his or her children and I want the children of Archelaus Braswell and Jas. W. Braswell to have an equal share. Item 12, the share of my property devised to my daughter Alice Lee Joyner is hereby expressly charged with the payment of $1000 to my daughter Helen Adriene and if said sum is not paid by said Alice Lee in ( ) months after my death then same is to carry interest until paid. Item 13, the land which was the property of my wife, Margaret A. Braswell and the legal title of which my children her heirs at law, I have devised in this will as my property and if one of my devisees shall make any claim in law for his or her share or their interest in said land or take any steps to receive their share therein, they shall forfeit all the property that I have devised to them in this will. Item 14, I nominate my son, William T. Braswell executor of this my last will and testament. Signed A. Braswell, wit. Laurence Johnson, Jno. L. Bridgers. Codicil to will- the land devised to Alice Lee Joyner being sold for the sum of $8000, of this, $7000 I give to said Alice Lee, she to that the net ( ) thereof for her life and after her death the said fund is to be equally divided between her children. The other $1000 I give to my daughter Helen Adriene in lieu of the $1000 bequeathed to her in my said will. Also devised in codicile was personal property to daughter Mary E. and A. Braswell, Jr. Signed 9 Jan. 1901. Codicile dated 7 Aug. 1901. Son Archelaus Braswell has died and the real estate devised to him is here devised to his children, (Harrold), Mary and Virginia Dare, being all the children he left. Real estate is to be held by R.H. Speight for said children. He is to pay proceeds from real estate to Mary Braswell, widow of said Archelaus Braswell, Jr. but if said Mary marries again, she shall have no part of income form said property. After the youngest of children reaches age of 21, property is to be divided among them. If said Mary does not marry again, the property shall not be divided until after her death. Letters Testamentary were issued Aug. 11, 1902. Value of property was stated as $75,000 in real estate, insurance money solvent credits and other personal property. Heirs were W.T. Braswell, J.C. Braswell, Jas. W. Braswell, Helan A. Hyman, Mary E. Braswell, Alice Lee Joyner, Maud S. Bullock and Harrold Braswell, Mary Braswell and Virginia D. Braswell, children of A. Braswell, Jr., deceased. Abstracted from copy of original, NC Archives CR.037.801.4, 6-24-01. BRASWELL, Benjamin, date of will 25 Feb. 1789, date proved May Ct. 1792– low state of health– “to my true and loving wife Mary” lend my plantation and all living stock for her natural life or widowhood. Executors wife and son James Braswell - - to son James all my land below Watery Branch and on the north side of Mill Branch, also 1 feather bed and furniture - - to son John Braswell- 125 acres of land lying on Town Creek joining Thomas Mercers land, 1 feather bed and furniture - - son Lemon remainder of my land lying on the north side of the mill joining watery branch and up said mill branch and also one bed and furniture - - sons Zadoc and Permenter Braswell to divide equally plantation lent to their mother at her death or marriage, 1 feather bed and furniture each - - son Simon 1 negro boy called Allen and one feather bed and furniture - - granddaughter Polley Ruffin (Mary written but scratched out), daughter of Mille Ruffin 1 feather bed and furniture - - daughter Selah Ruffin, wife of (Samuel) Ruffin 5 cattle, 5 sheep, one bed and furniture already in her possession - - daughter Winney Braswell 1 negro girl called Annis, 1 feather bed and furniture - - negroes Bett, Lettus and Savory or as many of them that are alive at my wife’s death or marriage, to be divided among all my children at my wife’s death or marriage. Sign. Benjamin Braswell (Signature was poorly written, did not appear to be in the same hand as will). Witnesses Thos Mercer, Thomas Williams (X). NOTE: Lemon and Simon appear to be two different people. See Db 10, page 116. Proved by oath of Thomas Williams and executors qualified May Ct. 1792. Abstracted from original, NC State Archives, CR.037.801.4, 6-24-01, LDS film 0018851 at Va. Beach FHC. Braswell, Bythal, will date 21 Jan 1841, date recorded Feb Ct. 1842, “sick and weak in body but of perfect mind and memory”... it is my will that all of my estate be sold and all my just debts be paid, remainder to be equally divided beloved children viz. Jacky D. Peel, Wilie Braswell, Calvin Braswell, Sereny Thornell and Frances Braswell, to them and their heirs; I give to my “beloved friend Moses Price and Robert Barnes whom I constitute ordain and appoint my hole sole executors of this my last will and testament all and singular my lands messerages and tenements by them freely to possessed and enjoyed”; signed Bythal Braswell, wit. Redmon Curl, Eason Williams. Abstracted from copy of original, NC Archives CR.037.801.4, 6-24- 01. Braswell, Crissey, will date 8 Sept. 1848, codicil date 13 May 1852, date recorded Feb Ct. 1853, “In the name of God, I Crissey Braswell of the County of Edgecombe and State of North Carolina being of sound mind & disposing memory and in reasonable health” ... Item 2, I give to my daughter Polly Calhoon during her lifetime one equal share of my lands which I now have hereafter with my grandchildren, Mary Elizabeth Armstrong, James Gray Armstrong, George Washington Armstrong and Crissey Armstrong, viz. one fifth part, also I give to her $400 in money, my carriage and harness, two horses, Hunter and Bill, one spinning wheel, one bed and furniture which was left me by her father, James Braswell, for her natural life and at her death to her children, a deceased child always standing in the place of a parent and should said Polly die leaving no children, all of the aforesaid property shall go to my grandchildren, Mary Elizabeth Armstrong, James Gray Armstrong, George Washington Armstrong and Crissey Armstrong in like manner and under the same limitations as the property I shall hereafter bequeath them. Item 3, I give the other four fifths of my lands which I now have or may hereafter have unto my four grandchildren, Mary Elizabeth Armstrong, James Gray Armstrong, George Washington Armstrong and Crissey Armstrong and their heirs forever. Item 4, I lend to Mary Elizabeth Armstrong during her natural life slaves Piety and Wilson and after her death I give them to her child or children if she should have any and if she should die without children to descend as in item 3, I also bequeath to said Mary Elizabeth Armstrong $150 in money and one bed and furniture; item 5, I give to James Gray Armstrong slave Isaac, son of Savery and Isaac, son of Vilet and $50 in money, subject to same limitations as in item 3; item 6, I lend unto Crissey Armstrong during her natural life slaves Vilet and Sarah, her daughter & boy Redding & their increase and after her death to go to her child or children and if she dies without children to go as in item 3, also one feather bed and furniture and $50 in money; item 7, I give to my grandson George Washington Armstrong slaves Augustine & Joe and $50 in money, subject to the same limitations in item 3; Item 8, I give to my daughter Polly and my two granddaughters all my bed clothing not given away and my wearing apparel to be equally divided among them; Item 9, all the balance of my property to be sold and the proceeds used to pay my just debts and legacies I have given in money and the balance to be equally divided between my daughter Polly and four grandchildren Mary Elizabeth Armstrong, James Gray Armstrong, George Washington Armstrong and Crissey Armstrong. I appoint my friends William D. Petway and James F. Jenkins as my executors, signed Crissey Braswell (X), wit. David Mercer (middle initial not legible). Codicil: I give to Mary Elizabeth Barnes a small Negro girl named Martha Ellen, a child of woman Vilet, but if Mary should die without child, I lend said Martha Ellen unto Cressa Armstrong during her natural life and after her death to go to her children and if she has no children, to go as in item 3; I hereby revoke that part of my will which gives the increase of Vilet so far as Martha Ellen and no more, signed Crissey Braswell (X), wit. Jesse Mercer, G. ( ). Abstracted from copy of original, NC Archives CR.037.801.4, 6-26-01. Braswell, Eliza J., Edgecombe Co., date of will 27 July 1905, date recorded 25 March, 1915, Will Book J, page 99, “being of sound mind, but considering the uncertainties of my earthly existence”... to F.H. Cutchin, trustee, in trust for the use and benefit of my son, Charles B. Braswell, during and for the term o his natural life, my farm in Edgecombe Co. adjoining the lands of the heirs of the late A. Braswell, Dr. R.H. Speight, Fishing Creek and the same lands devised to me by my father, Josiah Cutchin, deceased, said Charles is to have full use of land and proceeds but not the power to sell or convey said land, if said Charles leaves a child or children at his death, said child or children are to have land in fee simple, but if Charles dies without children, land is to descend to my daughter, Lillian M. Cutchin and her heirs in fee simple but if Charles dies without leaving sufficient support for his wife, Maria Isabelle Braswell, said Maria is to receive one half of profits from land for her life or widowhood and said Lillian to receive the other half; daughter Lillian M Cutchin is to receive all other property both real and personal ; my son, Charles B. Braswell on the 1st of Apr. 1898 executed to Lillian M. Cutchin his note in the sum of $1002.08 secured by me, if this debt is not paid before my death, note is to be paid from rents of my land devised to said Charles at the rate of $100 annually; the note signed by my younger daughter, Lillian M. Cutchin which I hold is NOT to be paid; F.H. Cutchin is to be appointed my executor, signed Eliza J. Braswell, wit. S.R. Fountain, T.T. Moore. Abstracted from copy of original, NC Archives CR.037.801.4, 6-26-01. Braswell, Emma Eliza of Edgecombe Co., will date 3 Feb 1897, date recorded 21 Sept. 1900; “being of sound mind and memory” .. Item to my grandson, Lewis Braswell Knight, $100; Item grandson Robert Vernon Knight $50; Item to my daughter, Mrs. A. Dora Gay, two beds, bedsteads and mattresses and the sum of $150, but if said Dora should die without heirs the beds and furniture shall go to my grand nieces, Emma and (Harriet) Knight; Item to my grandson Bennie Knight, one bed, bed stead and mattress and $50; Item to my daughter Fannie Knight, one packing truck (and other personal items) & $150; Item son Robert Braswell one bed, bed stead and mattress but in case he should die without heirs they to go to my daughter Mrs. Fannie Knight; Item to my son, V.B. Knight one side board; Item to my daughter in law (Mrs) Alice Knight one domestic sewing machine; Item son in law (Louis) B. Knight the farm bell; Item grand nieces Emma Knight and Fannie Knight, daughter of V. B. and Alice Knight, the sum of $25 each; Item The balance of my estate to be sold and proceeds used to pay my debts and balance shall be equally divided among my daughters Mrs. Fannie Knight and Mrs. A. Dora Gay and my sons Robert J. Braswell, and Vernon B. Knight, should they all be living at the time of my death, but if one or more should die without children, then his or her share is to lapse but if they should die leaving children the children shall receive their parents share; I appoint Dempsey B. Batts my executor, signed Emma Eliza Braswell, wit. Joe A. Knight, G.R. Grimes. Letters Testamentary dated 21 Sept. 1900, state value of property at $850, executors are L.B. Knight and V.B. Knight and heirs are Lewis B. Knight, Jr., Eliaz Knight, Robt. V. Knight, Dora Gay, V.B. Knight, Alice Knight, Fannie Knight, R.J. Braswell, Lewis B. Knight, Emma Knight and Frances Knight, daughters of V.B. Knight, Benjamin Savage, Lela Savage and Joe Savage, with L.B. Knight as guardian and Lon Weathersbee. Abstracted from copy of original, NC Archives CR.037.801.4, 6-26-01. Braswell, Isaac, date of will 23 April 1870, date recorded 17 June 1873, “ In the name of God, Amen” I Isaac Braswell of Edgecombe Co. .. being of sound mind and disposing memory” ; to my beloved wife, Elizabeth Braswell, 200 acres of land known as the dower of Bithel Braswell widow and at her death to be equally divided between my children, to wit? Polly, Francis, George, Crissy, Luginah, Jesse, Milly and upon the death of either of the above children without a child to be equally divided between the others; Item beloved wife, Elizabeth Braswell years provisions, “one horse her choice one cow and calf 1 ox cart and wheels and furniture utensils sufficient for one horse farm” ten head of hogs her choice and at her death to be equally divided between the aforesaid children to wit? Polly, Francis, George, Cressey, Luginah, Jesse and Milly and upon the death of any of them without a child to be equally divided among the others; Item to my daughter Elizabeth Edwards the tract of land whereon she now lives known as the “marshfield” adjoining John C. Robbins, Robert B. Braswell & beginning at an ash Robert Braswell’s corner then nearly north to a branch where the fence now crosses then up the branch to near the head then north a blazed line to the new path then west along the new path to Jesse Dixon line then south along Jesse Dixon’s line to his and Robbins corner then along Robbins line south to Robert Braswell’s corner then east along Braswell’s line to a small white oak then north Braswell’s line to an ash the beginning containing 75 acres; Item- to my beloved son Asberry Braswell the tract of land whereon he now lives known as a part of the Gray land adjoining Polly Calhoun and John Daws beginning at Polly Calhoun’s corner Cokey Swamp then up the canal to the (gray) Branch then up the gray branch to the new fence then north to Polly Calhoun’s line containing 65 acres; Item- to my daughter Pennetta Braswell Proctor the tract of land whereon she now lives known as my old place beginning at the road bridge then down the canal to John Daws corner then nearly sough along John Daws line to his land then nearly west along the path to the place marked by Levi Lancaster for a new road then to the road then down the road to the beginning containing 75 acres; Item- to my daughter Nancy Price one half of a tract of land known as the Taylor Tract containing 100 acres, her part adjoining John Daws, R.B. Braswell and my Ruffin Tract: Item- I loan to my daughter Julia Braswell the other half of my Taylor Tract of land which is 50 acres for her use and benefit during her natural life and at her death to be equally divided between Nancy Price’s children, I also give to my daughter Julia Braswell the sum of $100 which is all I want her to have of my estate: Item- I also give to my daughter Nancy Price the sum of $100 which is all I want her to have of my estate; Item- I give to my four grandchildren, Anzalina Luper, Mauzauia Luper, Isaac G. Luper and Sally A. Luper one tract of land known as the Ruffin tract adjoining the lands of R.B. Braswell, Kinchen Edwards and others, provided that if any of them should died without children their part shall go to them that has children, I also give the above named four children $100 to be equally divided between them; Item- the balance of my land not otherwise disposed of I give to my seven children, to wit: Polly, Francis, George, Crissey, Lugenah, Jesse & Milly to be equally divided between them provided that if any of them should die without children their part shall go to them that has; Item- I give to my son Asberry Braswell one bed and furniture or $25 in money; Item- I give to my daughter Polly Braswell one bed and furniture or $25 in money; Item- I give to my daughter Francis Braswell one bed and furniture or $25 in money; Item- I give to my daughter Lugenah Braswell one bed and furniture or $25 in money; Item- I give to my daughter Crissy Braswell one bed and furniture or $25 in money; Item- I give to my daughter Milly Ann Braswell one bed and furniture or $25 in money; Item- I give to my son George one bed and furniture or $25 in money; Item- I give to my son Jesse one bed and furniture or $25 in money; Item- all my just debts to be paid out of my property not otherwise disposed of and if any remainder to be equally divided between my children, Asberry Braswell, Pennetta Proctor, Elizabeth Edwards, Polly Braswell, Francis Braswell, George Braswell, Crissy Braswell, Lugenah Braswell, Jesse Braswell & Milly Braswell Braswell; Item- I appoint my two friends Miller John Proctor and Oran J. Proctor my executors, signed Isaac Braswell (IB), wit. B.B. Smith, L.B. Jackson (X). LETTERS TESTAMENTARY dated 17 June 1873 state value of estate at $10,000 and that heirs are Elizabeth Braswell, his widow, his children, Asberry Braswell, John Braswell, Nancy (Price), (Pennetta) Proctor, Elizabeth Edwards, Frances Braswell, Polly Braswell, Lugenia Braswell, Cely Braswell, ( ) A. Braswell, George Braswell, Jesse Braswell, and his grandchildren, Lena Luper, Margena Luper, Thomas A. Luper, and Sally A. Luper. Abstracted from copy of original, NC Archives CR.037.801.4, 6-26-01. Braswell, James, Edgecombe Co., will date 27 Sept. 1760, date recorded Jan Ct. 1765, “being in good health and of sound mind and memory”; Item- to my son Joseph Braswell one feather bed and furniture which is now in his possession; Item- to my son James Braswell one feather bed and furniture which is now in his possession; Item- to my son Benjamin Braswell one feather bed which is now in his possession; Item- to my daughter Sarah (Cain) one feather bed which is now in her possession; Item- to my daughter Olive Stinson (could be Hinson) one feather bed which is now in her possession; Item- to my son Simon Braswell my plantation and tract of land which I now live on containing 400 acres of land, also all my stock of cattle, hogs, and all my household goods & furniture after his mother’s death; Item- I make my loving son Simon my sole executor, signed James Braswell (mark, possibly J), wit. John Davis (mark), (Nathaniel) Ruffin, appears to be Nathaniel but will proved by Saml. Ruffin. NOTE: IN WILL BOOK (FILM) SARAH CAIN APPEARS TO BE SARAH LAND. Abstracted from copy of original, NC Archives CR.037.801.4, 6- 26-01. Braswell, James, Edgecombe Co., will date 2 Oct 1783, date recorded Nov. Ct. 1783, “In the name of God Amen”.. “being weak in body but of perfect mind and memory”... Item- to my loving wife, Unity Braswell 15 shillings specie to be paid out of my estate; Item- son Nathan Braswell one tract of land which I purchased of Isham Humphrey containing 100 acres also one Negro boy named (Lewis), one feather bed and furniture; Item- to my son James Braswell one tract of land containing 132 acres lying between the lands of Solomon Braswell & Robert Fort, also my late entry of 300 acres of land adjoining the land of Jacob Fort, Wm. Sugg, Anthony Bacon, also one Negro boy named (?oll), one feather bed and furniture and one horse; Item- to my son Abney Braswell, one tract of land containing 132 acres adjoining the lands of Solomon Braswell, my own line, (Cowh??) Green’s line and John Sutherlins, also one tract of land containing 69 acres which I purchased of Joseph Howell, bounded by the lands of John (Stutherlon), Robert Bignall and Henry Owen, also one Negro boy named George, one feather bed and furniture, and one (Hose); Item- to my son, (Bunill) Braswell, the land & plantation where I now live together with the tract purchased of Thomas Joice also my late entry between said (Joice’s) line and the land of Robert Bignell and one feather bed and furniture also one horse and one Negro boy named Auson; Item- to my daughter Fereby on Negro girl named Judy; Item- to my daughter Charity one Negro wench named Bech, one feather bed and furniture and one horse; Item- to my daughter Rachell one Negro boy named ( ), one feather bed and furniture, one horse, but if she should died without issue lawfully begotten or her body the same to be equally divided among all my other children; Item- to my daughter Elizabeth one Negro boy named Ned, one feather bed and furniture, one horse; Item- daughter Sarah one Negro boy named Joseph, one feather bed and furniture, one horse; Item- all the rest of my estate to be divided among eight of my children; Nathan Braswell, James, Abner, Bunill, my daughter Charity, Rachell, Elizabeth, Sarah; Item- I appoint my son Nathan, John Sherrod and Robert Diggs executors, signed James Braswell, wit. Noah Sugg (proved), John Sutherland, Joseph Borden. Abstracted from copy of original, NC Archives CR.037.801.4, WB A, page 142, 6-27-01. BRASWELL, JAMES, Edgecombe Co., date of will 20 NOV 1821, date proved MAY CT 1824, book F/18; In the name of God...”being weak of body”; Item- Lend my beloved wife Crissey Braswell all my lands of every description & all my Negroes of every class and all my stock of every kind together with all my plantation utensils during her natural life or widowhood; Item- to my beloved son Henry B. Braswell, after the death or marriage of my wife, Crissey Braswell, all my lands of every description, also one roan colt called Starling; Item- to my beloved wife one feather bed and furniture her choice; Item- after the death or marriage of my wife all me estate not already given away to be equally divided among my four daughters, viz. Harriet, Polly, Betsey and Crissey Braswell; Item- I appoint John Mercer, Esq. and my beloved wife, Crissey Braswell executors; signed James Braswell, wit. E.T. Bullock, Henry Griffin. Proved by Edwin Bullock; Crissey Braswell qualified as executor; John Mercer refused to qualify. Abstracted from copy of original, NC Archives CR.037.801.4, 6-26-01. Braswell, Jesse, Edgecombe Co., will date 4 Mar 1908, date recorded 1917, “being of sound and disposing mind and memory”... Item- to my sisters, Lincy and Nancy Braswell or in case either of them shall die before me then to the survivor of them, all my personal estate and all of the interest I have in a tract of land in Edgecombe Co. known as the Thomas Dickerson land, lately owned by Wiley Braswell adjoining the lands of Sherrod and Mayo and Robert and Jacob Bullock and Charlie Ruffin containing 156 acres; Item- I appoint my sister Lincy Braswell executrix, signed Jesse Braswell, wit. Daniel Powell, Richard Tolston. Abstracted from copy of original, NC Archives CR.037.801.4, 6-26-01. Braswell, Lincy, Edgecombe Co., will date 24 Jan 1918, date recorded 1931, “being of sound and disposing mind and memory”... to the children of my sister, Fannie Powell, $5, each; to the children of my sister, Mary Griffin, $5 each; to the children of my sister, Martha Taylor $5 each; to the children of my brother Bullock Braswell, $5 each; to the children of by brother David Braswell $5 each; to my beloved nephew, Daniel Powell all of the estate and interest of every kind I may have in that tract of land known as the Thomas Dickerson land, lately owned by Wiley Braswell, adjoining the land formerly owned by Sherrod and Mayo and lands now owned by Robert Bullock, Jacob Bullock and Charlie Ruffin, containing 56 acres and is the same land where I now live; the said Daniel Powell has this day agreed to pay me $500 per annum for use of said land for the rest of my life; I appoint my nephew, Daniel Powell executor, signed (Lincey) Braswell, wit. J.W. Raynor, W.C. (Winstead). Abstracted from copy of original, NC Archives CR.037.801.4, 6-26-01. Braswell, Mary, Edgecombe Co., will date 14 Dec 1888, date recorded 1895, “Being of sound mind and discriminating memory”... Item- for the natural love and affection I have for my cousin R.B. Hyatt and as a reward for his dutifulness to me, I give him and his heirs my farm in Edgecombe Co., being the same left to me by my father, provided the said R.B. Hyatt should outlive me; if he should die before me, leaving lawful children, land is to go to the said children; also all my personal property; if H.B. Hyatt should die before I die, without leaving heirs, the real and personal property to go to the children of my sisters, Crissie Moore, Elizabeth Edwards, Penneth Proctor, and my brother, Asberry Braswell; Item- I appoint H.B. Hyatt executor without bond; signed Mary Braswell (X), wit. Dossey Battle, B.F. Dawson. Abstracted from copy of original, NC Archives CR.037.801.4, 6-26-01. Braswell, Mary P., Edgecombe Co., will date 9 Jan 1880, date recorded 5 Aug. (1890), “being of sound mind and unsound body and having the certainty of death”... Item_ I give my land and household and kitchen furniture to my two sisters, Mrs. Sallie Williams and Miss Frances W. Braswell, signed Mary P. Braswell, wit. W.P. Mercer, J.D. Horne, J.S. (Battle). No executor named. Abstracted from copy of original, NC Archives CR.037.801.4, 6-27-01. Braswell, M.R., Nash Co., will date 6 Jan 1937, 2 June 1938, “being of sound mind”... Item- to my daughter, Mamie L. Braswell Battle, wife of Hyman L. Battle and Emily H. Braswell Perry, wife of William D. Perry, all my household furniture, library, Jewelry, wearing apparel and automobiles in equal proportion, the division to be made by them; Item- to my daughters Mamie L. Braswell Battle and Emily H. Braswell Perry, in fee simple the following lands: three tracts of land in North Whitakers TWP, Nash Co. lying together and forming one tract, containing 1350 acres, known as the “Tucker”, “Island”, and “Foreman” places; one tract of land in and near the city of Rocky Mount, Nash Co. containing 42 acres, known as the Green Land; three tracts of land near Sharpsburg in Nash Co. together forming one tract containing 285 acres, known as the “Wynn”, “Turner” and “Dawes” places; a tract of land in Edgecombe Co. containing 350 acres known as the “Mill Pond Place”; all other property of every kind and nature, real and personal to Hyman L. Battle, William D. Perry and Planters National Bank and Trust Co. not for their own use but in trust and pay rents and interest from this trust to my daughters, Mamie L. Braswell Battle and Emily H. Braswell Perry for as long as they live or until Jan. 1, 1957 at which time the trust shall terminate and all property shall be conveyed to Mamie L. Braswell Battle and Emily H. Braswell Perry or their children if they be deceased; Item- I appoint Hyman L. Battle, William D. Perry and Planters National Bank and Trust Co. executors, signed M.R. Braswell, T.E. Jolley. Abstracted from copy of original, NC Archives CR.037.801.4, 6-26-01. Braswell, Nancy, Edgecombe Co., date of will 4 Mar 1908, date recorded 17 Oct. 1917, “Being of sound and disposing memory”... Item- to my beloved brother and sister Jesse and Lincy Braswell all of my personal estate and all interest I may have in a tract of land in Edgecombe Co. known as the Thomas Dickerson land, lately owned by Wiley Braswell, adjoining the lands of Sherrod and Mayo and Robert and Jacob Bullock and Charlie Ruffin containing 166 acres, and if either should die, all to the survivor; Item- I appoint my brother Jesse Braswell executor; signed Nancy Braswell, wit. Daniel Powell, Richard Tolston. Letters Testamentary state value of estate at $450 real and personal and heirs as Jesse Braswell and Linsy Braswell. Abstracted from copy of original, NC Archives CR.037.801.4, 6-26-01. Braswell, Permenter, date of will 25 Oct. 1827, date proved Nov. Ct. 1830, “very sick and weak in body but of perfect mind and memory”; beloved wife, Margaret Braswell, “all my land that I am possessed with three Negroes, her choice, two beds and furniture, during her widowhood; grandson, Egbert Williams, $30; granddaughter Martha Ann Williams, $30; grandson, Blake Williams, $30; sons Benjamin Braswell, Robert Braswell and daughter, Ann Braswell all the residue of my estate to be equally divided at the marriage or death of my wife, the land I have given her to be equally divided between Robert Braswell and Ann Braswell, the Negroes that I have given to my wife to be equally divided between Benjamin Braswell, Robert Braswell and Ann Braswell; exe. Benjamin Braswell, Robert Braswell, Robert Barnes, signed Permenter Braswell, wit. Lovitt Killebrew, Samuel Moore. Benjamin Braswell and Robert Braswell qualified as executors. Abstracted from copy of original, NC Archives CR.037.801.4, 6-26-01. Braswell, Polly, Edgecombe Co., date of will 14 June 1860, date recorded 1863, “being of sound disposing mind and memory”... all my property to be sold except one young heifer which I give to my daughter Winnifred Braswell together with its increase and $50 in cash; Item- all the rest of my estate to be divided among my children as follows: Sally Williams, July Wiggins (possibly Judy), Mary Peat Martha Lancaster, Willie Braswell, James Braswell, Baker Braswell, Spencer Braswell, Lucinda Braswell and Winifred Braswell; Item- I appoint my daughter Mary Peat Braswell executrix; signed Polly Braswell (X), wit. David Williams, Winnifred Braswell (X). Abstracted from copy of original, NC Archives CR.037.801.4, 6-26-01. Braswell, Richard, Edgecombe Co., date of will 7 Dec 1767, Feb Ct. 1772, “being in good health and of perfect sense and sound mind and memory”... Item- to my son Sampson Braswell a tract of land containing 50 acres beginning at a white oak his corner on Tar River then a direct course to a new marked poplar standing at or near the Nauhuntee path then along the said path to my back line then down the back line to the said Sampson’s line then along this line to the white oak the first station; Item- to my son Solomon all the remainder of my land and plantation whereon he now dweleth; Item- all the remainder of my estate which I have not already given away I lend to my loving wife during her natural life or widowhood & after her death or marriage the aforesaid estate which I have lent my wife Elizabeth to be equally divided among all my children that is now living, to them and their heirs; Item- to my son Richard five shillings; Item- my son James five shillings; Item- to my son William five shillings; Item- to my daughter Sarah five shillings; Item- to my daughter Mary five shillings; Item- to my daughter Elizabeth five shillings; Item- I appoint my loving wife Elizabeth and my son James executors; signed Richd. Braswell (R), wit. Thomas Bryant, Wm. Sharrod, ( ) Fort (mark), Samson Dillard, James Gray. Proved by oath of Thomas Bryant and James Gray, and Elizabeth Braswell and James Braswell qualified as executors. Abstracted from copy of original, NC Archives CR.037.801.4, 6-26-01. Braswell, Robert R., Edgecombe Co., date of will 11 Dec. 1845, date recorded 1848 (date from folder), “In the name of God”... “being in a sound sence and memory thou not well in health”... Item- to my beloved wife Anseylina Braswell I lend all of my household furniture, one mule, one horse and cart and gig, all my farming tools, all my land on the east side of my canal, one Negro man Robbin, one woman named Pleasant, one boy named Isaac, I lend her ( )(seport) for one year, also one yoke of ox and cash; Item- I give my son Joseph T. Braswell (89) acres of land called the Moore Land and $100 in money; Item- I give to Benja J. Braswell my Lovit Long plantation, my store house contents except my notes and accounts; Item- I give my son Thomas P. Braswell the plantation where my mother now lives; Item- I give my son Robert L. Braswell the two tracts of land that I “bote” of Jesse C. Knight & Laurence Moore; Item- I give to my youngest son John D. Braswell my home plantation at the death or marriage of my beloved wife; Item- I give to Benja (1) brandy still, I give to Joseph J. Braswell one brandy still, I give to Thomas P. Braswell one brandy still, I give to Benja Braswell all of my blacksmith tools of every description; Item- I give to my daughter Margaret Braswell one Negro girl Cherry and $100 in money; Item- I give to my daughter Elizabeth one Negro boy named Isaac; I give to my daughter (Arretta) Braswell one Negro boy named (Cha ); Item I give to my daughter Ansy Lina Braswell one Negro girl by the name of (Jane) after the division of my mother’s estate takes place and my part of Winny Williams estate takes place my will is that both of my shares of their estates be sold and all of the property not given away in this will be sold and all the profits that arise from said be equally divided among my living children; Item- I appoint my son Benjamin Braswell and my son Joseph J. Braswell my executors and to hold and pay to each and every heir at the age of 21; signed Robert R. Braswell, wit. Wm. H. Hines, J.W. Calhoon. Abstracted from copy of original, NC Archives CR.037.801.4, 6-26-01. Braswell, T.P., Nash Co., 16 Oct 1903, date recorded 1907, “Being of sound mind and memory”... I give to my beloved wife my lot and two brick stores in the town of Nashville, one house and lot on Church in Rocky Mount fronting the entire lot on said street and running back to the first corner of R.H. Ricks and my corner now occupied by J.L. Horne, Jr., I give to her the entire use of ½ of my dwelling where I now live also a ½ of a two room kitchen in rear of and near said dwelling house as well as 1/3 of all my household kitchen furniture, her choice horse and buggy anc choice milch cow, enough meat and bread to feed her, a housekeeper and servant for one year; I give her my corner lot and brick store in Rocky Mount, Edgecombe Co. as well as the small brick house on same lot adjoining market, for and during her life and no longer in satisfaction for and in lieu of dower and third and other claims to all my real and personal estate. I give her enough money when added to her part of my life insurance to be $1700, to amount to $4000; Item- To my oldest son, M.C. Braswell, all my undivided in the “Belmont” Farm, about 840 acres, all my interest in the Promise Land tract about 100 acres, all my interest in one other small tract about 50 acres adjoining, also all my interest in all stock, horses, mules, sheep, hogs, cattle, farming implements, as well as all the crops make on said farms, also my store lot on the corner in the town of Battleboro with two small stores and small warehouse thereon, one store now occupied by T.P. Braswell & Son and the other by Elenor as a bar, this lot fronts R.R. Street and runs back to Herbert lot fence, my interest in the lot and big tobacco warehouse including a small house next the Richmond lot, this lot lies on the west side of a street running from the county road to the Baptist Church bounded by said street, county road, Matthew Richmond and J.P. Elenor, all my interest in a small lot and Prise house on R.R. Street. I give him my interest in all goods, wares and merchandise on hand at my death as well as all my interest in all debts, notes and accounts, etc... due T.P. Braswell & Son, I give him all my interest in the Pope farm, about 200 acres, as well as the house and lot whereon he now lives including all the crop, stock and farming implements on said places, this Pope farm and house and lot is in Edgecombe Co., the other is in Nash Co., all this property is given to M.C. Braswell and is given on the condition that he is to claim no charges in favor of himself or T.P. Braswell & Son against me or my estate, except for indebtedness I may owe for goods or supplies bought for my own use the year of my death; Item- I give to my son M.R. Braswell all my lands on Cokey Swamp in Edgecombe Co. including several parcels all adjoining, two shares of Hill land on east side of said swamp, 115 acres, on the west side of said Swamp Ward tract, 104 acres, the Mark Hill tract 64 acres, the Newsom Long tract, 34 acres, the Tem Williford tract, 64 aces, the Doss Lee tract, 120 acres, as well as all my interest in all stock, crops farming implements on said farms, I also give to him in Nash Co my John Wynn tract, 100 acres, Woodrough tract, 126 acres, Jacob Turner tract, 80 acres, Allen Turner tract, 3 acres, all adjoining; also my interest in the stock, crop and farming implements thereon; I give him also in South Whitakers Township my Todd and Wilkins land, Todd 164 acres, the Wilkins tract 98 acres, together with also my interest in the stock, crop and farming implements thereon, to be charged against him only the amount of advances made to make the crops the year of my death; Item- I give to my son, J.C. Braswell all of my Bynum Mill farm including my interest in Braswell and Ellen Mill and Mill lot about 267 acres, all adjoining, also my interest in all the stock, horse, mules, cattle, hogs, etc., as well as all the crop and farming implements on said farms, to be charged against him only the amount of advances made to make the crops the year of my death; Item- I give to my son, T.P. Braswell, JR. all my home farm, 850 acres including all the farm implements of all kinds, all the meat, all crops of every descriptions, all the hogs, 25 cows, one bull, two oxen, out of my herd, five choice mules, one horse, the one half of my dwelling and half of kitchen is not included in this gift as I have given it for a life estate in a former clause of this will; at the death of my wife, said house privilege goes to my son, T.P. Braswell, Jr.; to be charged against him only the amount of advances made to make the crops the year of my death; Item- I give all my other property both real and personal not heretofore mentioned, except the 2/3 of hy household and kitchen furniture which is to be divided between my two younger sons, J.C. and T.P. Braswell, JR. to my four sons, M.C., M.R., J.C. and T.P. Braswell, Jr., to wit: Jones place, 44 acres; Carter Dunn place, 60 acres; A. Dunn place, 70 acres; Tucker place 563 acres, Island place 711 acres; (Forman) place 50 acres; Nerow Mann place, 40 acres; Price place at Mack Edwards, 50 acres; Snipes place 246 acres; Gold Mine Cooper Township 35 acres; half interest in Walker tract near Castalia, 50 acres; Hilliard Mill 6 acres; other Hilliard land about 175 acres; Westray tract near Rocky Mount 100 acres; in the town of Battleboro Neal and B lot; Hobgood and B. two lots; Rawlings and B. two lots; the Old Gion store, Hearn shop and lot; Herbert house and lot; in the town of Rocky Mount, half interest in B. and Son prizehouse; near said prizehouse five houses and lots, half way two houses and lots; J.C. Braswell office; Fulford lot and dwelling; Arguanant lot; House and lot at Nashville Y; vacant lot a Y; one other dwelling and lot at Y; and other vacant lot at Y; 1/3 interest n the Phillips and Battle lot 7 acres; Nashville R. Road, interest in Fair Company; interest in land company; the Shearin lot near school 3 acres; In Edgecombe Co., Rocky Mount half interest in Hales and Edwards store and lot; small store on Tarboro St. near Dr. Powell’s old store in east Rocky Mount 6 houses and lots near each other; South Rocky Mount Bassett lot; Tarboro Exchange near saw mill; also one other house and lot same place; on R.R. toward river one house and lot; one vacant lot near B.H. Bunn’s office; one half interest in corner lot known as the Armstrong or Pope lot near Garvey’s old place; Est Rocky Mount Freemond land, 50 acres; about 6 miles from Rocky Mount at Pleasant Hill the Marga Hill lot, 2 acres; see deed in Edgecombe; to have and hold to them and their heirs in fee simple forever, “which lands or personal property them may, of the town lots divide between themselves or sell at private sale any time after my death.” “But of all the farming lands they shall keep and manage in common for at least 2 years after my death.” Item- my desire is that my executors collect all debts, etc. due me and after paying my debs etc. divide the residue, if any, equally between themselves and at the death of my wife I give to my four sons all the real estate I have given her to be divided as they deem best. Item- I appoint my four sons, M.C., M.R., J.C. and T.P. Braswell, Jr. my executors, without bond or security., signed T.P. Braswell, wit. E.J. Braswell, W.P. Davis. Codicil, 23 April 1900- “since making this my last will which is date Jan 26th, 1897, circumstances have materially changed” Item- I give to my son, M.R. Braswell the Jesse Drake land, about 50 acres. Item- in addition to my wife, enough money to make her $5000, instead of $4000. Item- All the property I willed to my son, T.P. Braswell, Jr., I now give to my three sons, Mack C., Mark R., and James C. Braswell; signed T.P. Braswell. Codicil, 16 Oct 1903- “whereas circumstances have changed since making a codicil to my will, I now make this my second codicil; Item- in addition to what I have already willed to my wife, I now give her during her life my house and lot in Rocky Mount, known as the Sagamore Club fronting R.R. Street including width house and about three unoccupied feet next Jacob Battle lot, and running back to ten foot alley; Item- I give to my son M.C. Braswell, in addition to what I have already willed him the Herbert lot in Battleboro, Nash Co., commencing on the County Road formerly the Old Herbert fence at the corner of the old store house lot said lot already given away, then along said road in a western direction to a street then northward along said street leading to Baptist Church to P.E. Elenor’s line then in an easterly direction to Braswell and Alsop line near the rear end of the old store house then southward along B & A line to beginning; I also give to my son, M.C. Braswell my half interest in the old post office lot now a brick store occupied by Elenor; Item- I give to my son, M.R. Braswell in addition to what I have already given him my Freeman tract of land about 50 acres lying in Edgecombe Co. east of and near the town of Rocky Mount which he now has control of; Item- I give to my son, J.C. Braswell in addition to what I have already given him my Westray tract of land about 100 acres lying in Nash Co. of but near the town of Rocky Mount which he now has control of; Item- all my other property both real and personal heretofore mentioned, mentioned now or not mentioned, among them ten houses and vacant lots in Little Raleigh near Rocky Mount, two acre lot Edgecombe Co. South Rocky Mount near R.R. Shops, my Planter’s Bank stock, Supply Co. stock, Brick Co. stock, Storage Warehouse Stock, stock in new land company, four vacant lots bought of the N.C.L.I. Co. # 17-18-19-20, the J.B. Phillips lot on west of R.R. Street, I give to my three sons in common, signed T.P. Braswell. Abstracted from copy of original, NC Archives CR.037.801.4, 6-26-01. Braswell, Warren, Edgecombe Co., will date 30 Dec 1915, date recorded (1915), “being of sound mind”... Item- all debts to be paid from my estate; Item- all the balance of my estate for the benefit of my children; Edward Braswell, Richard Braswell, Mabel Braswell and Warren Braswell, $10 to be drawn out of the above named bank (First National Bank) for the use of said children; all monies to be turned over to my administrator, Joshua Braswell for the use of my children; in addition to the real estate there should be the following sums of money: $250 relief money, $200 Odd Fellows money; $62.50 Gate City Insurance Co. money; , signed Warren Braswell, wit. Geo. W. Bullock, Julianna Hart. Braswell, William, will date 4 Mar 1785, date proved May Ct. 1785. Submitted By: Joyce Braswell In the Name of God Amen I William Braswell, Sen. Of Nash County in the State of North Carolina being weak in body and in a low state of health but of a Disposing mind and memory Thanks be God for the same but remembering the mortality of my body do make and ordain this my Last Will and Testament. Principally and first of all I bequeath my soul to God that gave it and my body to be buried at the discretion of my Executors and as Touching my worldly Estate I give in manner and terms as followeth: Item, I give and bequeath to my loving wife Margaret Braswell one feather bed and furniture also all the money she has by her also all the linings and woolings with awosling wheel and cards to be at her own dispose. Item, I give to my son Jacob Braswell one dollar sterling to him and his heirs forever. Item, I give to my son Arthur Braswell a negro wench named Mott and her increase to him and his heirs forever. Item, I give to my daughter Patience West one dollar sterling to her and her heirs forever Item, I give to my daughter Dorcas Hooks one dollar sterling to her and her heirs forever.. Item, I give to my daughter Pattey Bridgers one dollar sterling to her and her heirs forever. Item, I give to my son Samuel Braswell one negro man Jack with all the rest of my estate undisposed of to which he is to take care of his mother and not let her suffer during her life. Item, I do constitute and appoint my son Samuel Braswell and John Chitty, Sen. my whole and sole executors of this my Last Will and Testament and do hereby pronounce and publish the same in witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed my seal this fourth day of March 1785. William Braswell (Seal) Wash Daniel Micajah Braswell Jacob Warrenton Nash County Wills 1778-1922 located in the North Carolina Archives, 109 Jones Street, Raleigh, N. C. Will made 4 March 1785, proven May Court 1785. Braswell, Winnifred Frances, Edgecombe Co., will date 1 May 1895, date recorded 21 May 1897, “being of sound mind and memory”... Item- for the love and esteem I have for W.P. Mercer and Jesse Proctor, I give them all my property real and personal as follows: Item 1- to W.P. Mercer all my land lying on the west side of the Temperance Hall and Rocky Mount road, bounded on the north side by George F. Braswell’s Path, said path running on the southern boundary of the four acre piece of land belonging to Red Braswell’s children, on the east by the Temperance Hall and Rocky Mount Road, on the south and on the west by lands belonging to W.P. Mercer and others; Item- I give to W.P. Mercer all my land lying on the east side of the Temperance Hall and Rocky Mount Road adjoining the lands of (Mrs) Nannie Mercer, Jesse Proctor, and others; Item- I give to Jesse Proctor all the remainder of my property real and personal, what so ever except the proceeds from the sale of such timber as is grown on the land or lands given to W.P. Mercer in Items one and two, said proceeds I give to W.P. Mercer; Item- I appoint W.P. Mercer executor; signed Winnifred Frances Braswell (X), wit. Howard F. Jones, J.W. Proctor. Abstracted from copy of original, NC Archives CR.037.801.4, 6-26- 01. Braswell, Zadock, Edgecombe Co., will date 13 Mar 1851, date recorded May Ct. 1852, “In the name of God Amen”... being weak in body but of sound disposing mind and memory”... lend to my beloved wife Mary Braswell my Negro man Elisha during her natural life or widowhood, also one feather bed and furniture, one horse or mule as she may choose, 20 head of hogs, two cows & calves, three ewes and lams, one dozen sitting chairs, one walnut table and one walnut chest, all my kitchen furniture together with one cloth loom, two ( ) cards, two spinning wheels, two plows & plow gear, two carts, cart wheels and gear, 100 acres of land including my house with privilege of using timber from any part of the hundred acres, all my fowls of every description, one years support for herself and family and stock of every description, (few other personal items); Item- my Negro man Lewis to be sold along with all the perishable goods not above mentioned and my debts paid from proceeds; Item- my daughter Lucinda Thornton one feather bed; Item- my daughter (Fanny) Winnifred one feather bed and furniture; Item- after the death of my wife, my land to be equally divided betwixt my sons and daughters as follows; Zadoc R. Braswell, Baker Braswell, Spencer Braswell, Mary P. Braswell, Lucinda T. Braswell, Frances W. Braswell; Item- all the property loaned to my wife after her death to be sold except the land and the money arising form such sale to be equally divided betwixt my six daughters, Sally, July, Mary Peat, Martha, and Lucinda and Frances; signed Zadoc Braswell (very scribbled), wit. David Williams, Bythal G. Brown. No executor named, Baker Braswell appointed administrator. Abstracted from copy of original, NC Archives CR.037.801.4, 6-27-01. Bryant, Dallas will, will date 2 Dec 1902, date proved 21 July 1903, Edgecombe Co. wills, NC Archives file CR.037.801.5; In the name of God Amen, I Dallas Bryant, town of Rocky Mount and Edge. Co. being of a sound and disposing mind and memory .... “I give and devise and bequeath to my beloved wife Catherine Bryant the house and lot on which we now reside during her widowhood provided she does not harbor or shelter thereon her son, Augustus Gray for one night should she shelter him there against my expressed desire or should she remarry then I direct my executors to at once take charge of my house and lot, advertise the same” and “sell at public outcry” to the highest bidder and apply the proceeds after the following manner: divide equally between my brothers and sisters; if my wife remains single and obey my request not to harbor her son, Augustus Gray on my place then she shall have such of my personal property as is required for her personal comfort, such of my personal property as she does not need to be divided equally between my brothers and sisters; after the sell of my property, the proceeds are to be divided equally between my brothers and sisters and each of them or their representatives to give one fourth of their share to Rosa Parker, the child raised by me, brothers Hoarce Bryant, Richard Bryant, sisters Arabella Gray, Isabelle Horne, executors brother Hoarce Bryant and nephew, Pompey Horne, signed Dallas Bryant (X), wit. W. Lee Person, Rocky Mount, H.M. Parker, Rocky Mount. Application for Letters Testimentary lists personal and real property valued at about $600 and Catherine Bryant, Hoarce Bryant, Richd. Bryant, Arabella Gray, Isabella Horne and Rosa Parker as heirs, signed Hoarce Bryant (X), Pompey Horne CR.037.801.5.